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 look back on Angelina Love vs. Taylor Wilde vs. Awesome Kong for the TNA Knockouts Championship in a steel cage match at Lockdown 2009.
We look back on Jeff Hardy vs. "The Wanted Man" Nic Nemeth for the TNA World Championship from last night's show.
We look back on Team Jarrett ("The Phenomenal" A.J. Styles, Christopher Daniels, Jeff Jarrett, Samoa Joe) vs. Team Angle (Booker T, Kevin Nash, Kurt Angle, Scott Steiner) in a Lethal Lockdown Match from Lockdown 2009.
General Manager Nick Aldis is in the ring to start tonight's show. He announces that Chelsea Green suffered an orbital bone injury last week, then introduces Chelsea Green to the ring. Aldis tells Chelsea that he has talked to medical and that he cannot in good conscience let her compete with a broken eye socket, and that she must relinquish the Interim WWE Women's Championship. Chelsea says she knew it was too good to be true and that she waited for the other shoe to drop, as every time she does something magical, it is always followed by something devastating. She says she was always the comic relief and never the champion. Chelsea says she has sacrificed much and has missed weddings and funerals to leave her all in the ring, and told herself that it was all worth it, as this moment would come, and that in the end, all that matters is what one thinks of one's self. She then says that until someone takes this off of her, the Interim WWE Women's Championship is hers, and that she thought that Aldis, of all people, would understand that before handing him the title and leaving. Aldis stops Chelsea and says he is doing the right thing as General Manager, but as a man, he does not give a damn about what medical says. He then gives Chelsea thirty days to get cleared, get a facemask and do what she must do to defend the title, and until then, the title is hers. Suddenly, Gunther shows up, and calls everything that has happened "a sob story nobody wants to hear" before stating it is time for more important things, and wants to know why Aldis pulled a stunt on him at SummerSlam. Aldis says they can handle this in the office, and right now, it is him and Chelsea. Gunther makes light of what Chelsea has just gone through as of late and brags about pulling double duty at SummerSlam and making a man tap out in front of his family. He then asks Aldis why Kevin Owens was added to his match. Aldis tells Gunther that he added him to Owens' match and that Owens' return was in the works for some time, then said he did the favor for Gunther and that Gunther could not get the job done. Chelsea laughs, and when Gunther tells her to shut up, Chelsea dares Gunther to puff his chest up and stroke his ego, then reminds him that she is the only champion in the ring. Matt Cardona suddenly shows up and stands up for Chelsea, and Gunther laughs at him, saying Cardona can do nothing to him even if he called Chelsea "every slut in the world." Chelsea asks Cardona to leave with her, and when Gunther calls it "a dog listening to its owner," Cardona turns around and jumps Gunther until two referees hold him back.
Gunther beats Matt Cardona, even after Cardona kicks Gunther in the groin following the distraction by Chelsea Green. After the match, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up, and Nia Jax mocks Chelsea Green for being injured and tells her she has a ticking clock, and asks her why she would waste time as a fighting champion and makes it clear she wants the WWE Women's Championship. Nia warns Chelsea that she has a history of breaking faces if she does not give her what she wants, and Tiffany Stratton gets in the ring only to be overpowered until referees step in.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair tells Alexa Bliss that she missed her, and the two of them find Tatum Paxley in a shrine for Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, which Charlotte and Alexa find a little odd.
Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes meets with General Manager Nick Aldis regarding Randy Orton. Aldis says he has yet to meet with Orton, and proposes a match at Saturday Night's Main Event. Cody likes the idea, then runs into Sami Zayn, who says that he has to go through hoops to get what he wants and that Cody just has to "say when." Cody says Sami used to be the one who was able to do it, then says he owes nobody anything, and says tells Sami that if he wants to do something about it, they can do something about it. Sami says that the last time they were in the ring, he beat Cody in the middle of the ring cleanly for the WWE Championship. Cody asks Sami if he can do it again, and challenges him tonight. Sami says Cody picked the night that he cannot go, and Aldis asks Sami if he cannot go or will not go, and says that if Sami beats Cody tonight, he gets the winner of Kevin Owens and CM Punk. Aldis tells Sami that he made the choice at SummerSlam, and that he is giving him that choice again.
Baron Corbin retains the WWE United States Championship against Carmelo Hayes. After the match, Trick Williams shows up, and Lil' Yachty shows up from behind and hits Corbin with the Trick Stick. Corbin takes the Trick Stick from Yachty and forces him to retreat, but Trick runs into the ring and hits Corbin on the chin with the Trick Shot.
Backstage, Chelsea Green thanks Tiffany Stratton for standing up for her and tells her that she did not want her to get injured before her match, but Tiffany says she is fine and still competing tonight.
Kevin Owens heads to the ring. He is soon joined by CM Punk. Punk says Owens is a lot of things, but he is not a coward, and that whatever Owens has to say concerns him before telling him to say it to his face. Owens talks about how they were in the ring a foot away from each other last week, yet Punk had his back turned when he called him "a fat slob," and says that their history runs back twenty years. Owens talks about how Punk was the big top guy while he was trying to make a name for himself, and how one night, Punk chose to berate, insult and scream at him in a locker room full of his peers. He then says that is just one reason why he does not like, and says that the things Punk has done and said as well as how he has treated his friends, but Punk says being hated is the price he pays for not being one of them. Owens says this is another reason he does not like Punk, as while Punk has made amends with others in the locker room, he considers everything Punk does "performative" before calling him "a phony" and stating Punk had no choice but to come back to WWE. He says that Punk ruined things everywhere he went and that he does not like him for that, then says he did pretty well for himself for the last twelve years before getting injured. Punk says he was and still is happy, but Owens does not believe him. Punk asks if Owens would still be afforded those opportunities had he still been here the last twelve years, and Owens wants to know if Punk sees him as "a fat indy slob" and "a fan on the wrong side of the barricade." Punk asks if this is what he thinks of Owens or what Owens thinks of himself, then says that he has a locker room who wants to be champion and that he calls out Oba Femi only to get endometriosis instead. Punk says that he will not take Owens lightly and that while he sees a tough guy, but he sees a bum, as he avoids the hard work. Punk says he has evolved, and that if Owens did half the work he did, he would have the WWE Championship around his waist. Owens says he worked to not be like Punk, and that while he likes what he sees in the mirror, Punk does not, and now "the fat indy loser" is in the same ring as him facing him for the WWE Championship next week. Punk says he sees himself from twenty years ago in Owens, and Owens asks Punk if it bothers him that he never sought him out for guidance before regretting not punching him out twenty years ago. Punk says there is nothing but air and opportunity and that Owens can do it now, and Owens says that if he did it then, Punk would have ruined his career. He then says that he has waited twenty years and can wait seven more days to "beat [his] bitch ass" for the WWE title. Punk says that twenty years ago, Owens was a greenhorn who stepped into his locker room and thought he could be disrespectful to him and has cried about the consequences ever since, and that he will "put [his] fat ass to sleep."
Backstage, Finn Balor meets with General Manager Nick Aldis, saying a little bit of a heads-up before SummerSlam would have been nice. Suddenly, Gunther shows up and wants SummerSlam sorted out after being made to wrestle in street clothes. When he finds out from Aldis that he is interrupting Finn Balor, Gunther says he only sees Finn's shadow if he squints hard enough. Finn Balor takes exception to this and says he will do whatever it takes for another title shot, and if he has to go through Gunther, he will be happy to beat his ass and show who he really is.
The MFTs (Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga) beat the team of Damian Priest and R-Truth and The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) in a Triple Threat tag team match to become the WWE Tag Team Champions!
Jacy Jayne beats Tiffany Stratton to become the WWE Women's United States Champion after Tiffany Stratton takes out Fallon Henley and Lainey Reid on the outside with the help of Chelsea Green only to run into a Rolling Encore back in the ring.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jade Cargill, B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim. Cargill says it is funny that the women's division cannot mind their business, and they can line up so she can knock them down. B-Fab says they have another victim in Tatum Paxley, who they plan to give a proper welcome.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes vs. Sami Zayn ends in a no-contest when Randy Orton attacks Cody Rhodes before the bell. This leads to a brawl around the crowd and at ringside, and officials show up as Cody is propped up against ring steps leaning against the announce table. As Orton is about to swing a metal folding chair at Cody with his head on the non-steps end of the stairs for a makeshift Con-Chair-To, Cody kicks Orton in the groin and hits him with the chair. Cody then goes for the exact same Con-Chair-To on Orton only for the chair to be taken away from him by officials, and Cody attacks Orton again as the show fades to black.
It is revealed that Moose has been laid out backstage, and Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers and JDC are so angry that they tell Director of Authority Santino Marella that they are having their match with Fir$t Cla$$ (AJ Francis and Rich Swann) and Trick Williams right now. The three of them head to the ring and head to the ring to call out Fir$t Cla$$ and Trick Williams so they can finish things once and for all.
Fir$t Cla$$ (AJ Francis and Rich Swann) and Trick Williams beats The System (Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers, JDC) with a schoolkid pin from Rich Swann to Brian Myers.
Dani Luna and Indi Hartwell beat Myla Grace and Harley Hudson. After the match, Indi Hartwell is suddenly attacked by Rosemary on the way to the back, as Rosemary spits green mist into Indi's face.
Matt Cardona beats John Skyler when Tasha Steelz' referee distraction backfires and Cardona is able to hit Radio Silence. After the match, Jason Hotch attacks Matt Cardona from behind, and Skyler joins in. Mustafa Ali shows up and watches before sending in Agent Zero, who choke bombs Cardona.
Backstage, Matt Cardona confronts Tasha Steelz as he wants Mustafa Ali at Emergence. Tasha says Mustafa is busy, yet Mustafa will be all too happy to face him at the event.
Director of Authority Santino Marella is in the ring for the Emergence Knockouts tag team summit, and he invites The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance and M by Elegance), the team of Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Lee, The IInspiration (Jessie McKay and Cassie Lee) and Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley and Jazmyn Nyx) to the ring. M by Elegance says that since they have the tag team gold, they are the most dominant team in the ring, and that this will not change after Emergence. After Lei Ying Lee speaks in Chinese, Xia Brookside says she has been underestimated and that she and Lei Ying Lee will kick everyone's asses. Jazmyn Nyx says there is a pattern where TNA titles end up on NXT women's waists, and Fallon says NXT is the superior brand and that she and Jazmyn will walk out as Knockouts Tag Team Champions. Cassie says Fatal Influence has been hit in the head one too many times and that they have returned to become tag team champions again. All four teams get in each others' faces, and Santino tells all four teams that they have five seconds to get their aggression out of their systems. All four teams brawl, and Santino calls for security to quickly move in, but it is not long before all of security gets laid out.
In a TNA digital exclusive, Gia Miller interviews Rosemary outside of the building. Rosemary says Indi Hartwell has walked into this realm like she owns it and acts like her road to the Knockouts World Championship is clear, yet they are blind to the dark forces that influence this place, and they have decided to make her even more blind. Rosemary says they are the dark mother and unholy matriarch of the Knockouts division, and demands they be also addressed as gatekeeper. They say that Indi wants the Knockouts World Championship, but Indi's path now goes through them.
As per the Bioflex Injury Report: Moose is cleared following a hip injury from tonight's backstage assault. Indi Hartwell is recieving treatment following being blinded by Rosemary, and is being checked on day-by-day for eye irritation. The Home Town Man is cleared following bruised ribs and will be facing "The Hollywood Hunk" Ryan Nemeth at Emergence.
Mike Santana beats Eric Young. Judas Icarus and Travis Williams attack Santana from behind immediately after the match, but Sami Callihan rushes in and fights them both before confronting Eric Young. Eric Young steps out of the ring as soon as Callihan steps in.
It's time for The King's Speech. Tonight's guests are Steve Maclin and Jake Something. Jake Something is introduced first, followed by Maclin, and Kazarian has to stand between them before they get physical. When Kazarian asks both men for their thoughts on their match, both men refuse to speak and continue to stare each other down. When Kazarian demands they speak, Maclin takes the microphone from his hand and tells Kazarian to shut up before stating that he and Jake are beyond talking and that they will find out if the International Championship is made for Jake and whether or not Jake is actually something at Emergence. Kazarian takes offense to Maclin taking the microphone from his hand before making fun of Jake Something's name. Jake grabs Kazarian by the neck, but Kazarian gets away, especially when Maclin goes for KIA on Kazarian. Maclin then tries to brawl with Jake only to get hit with Into the Void.
Cedric Alexander and The Rascalz (Myron Reed and Zachary Wentz) beat Leon Slater and The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy).
Volador Jr., Difunto, The Beast Mortos and Hechicero beat Alex Zayne, AR Fox and Spanish Announce Project (Angelico and Serpentico) in an eight-man Lucha Rules match. After the match, the winning team goes on the attack with Lance Archer joining in, but Bandido shows up with Brody King, Hologram and Tomohiro Ishii and they make the save for Zayne, Fox and Spanish Announce Project.
We hear from Ariya Daivari, who tries to cut a promo in a gold luchador mask but is reluctant about this even as Tony Nese and "Smart" Mark Sterling tell him that he is doing great. Daviari then calls out Neon and Mascara Dorada to a tag team match. Nese says that whatever rules they fight under do not matter and that athletes rule.
Willie Mack beats Gringo Loco.
Lance Archer beats Ren Jones.
We hear from Mina Shirakawa, who calls out Athena for breaking her hand in the Women's Casino Gauntlet Match and costing her a title shot. She says that Athena took her title shot, but she will take her title at Death Before Dishonor. She says Athena has 68 wins, but she will not "69 her."
Leila Grey beats Taya Valkyrie by submission.
We hear from Willie Mack, who says it is great to be back in Ring of Honor with a win against Gringo Loco and that he has a need for some gold. He says he will be coming for the ROH World Television Championship down the line when Nick Wayne, Kip Sabian and Mother Wayne show up. Nick Wayne says he has multiple defenses under his belt with over 100 days to his reign, and dares Willie Mack to face him for the title.
Tomohiro Ishii beats "Main Man" Oro (formerly known as Oro Mensah in WWE).
Xelhua vs. "Taiga Style" Lee Moriarty in a ROH Pure Championship Proving Ground Match ends in a time limit draw. Xelhua earns a shot at the ROH Pure Championship at a later date. After the match, Lee Moriarty offers to shake Xelhua's hand, but Xelhua refuses.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Sonjay Dutt, Jay Lethal, Jeff Jarrett and Karen Jarrett. Lethal says the hate between them and "Hangman" Adam Page is mutual, then Hangman shows up and goes on the attack before getting his match with Jay Lethal started early.
We see a video package for Will Ospreay vs. MJF for the AEW American Championship at All In.
Backstage, we hear from PAC, who says that he is the number one contender for the AEW American Championship, yet Will Ospreay went behind his back and got a match with MJF for the title at All In. He says he is sick and tired of being overlooked, unappreciated and being treated like a bum, but he has gotten revenge and that he will face whoever wins the title two weeks later at All Out and take back what is his.
We hear from Darby Allin, who talks about how he killed himself for nearly nothing in the independents before he got to AEW, then says that AEW is just going to be a place where The Elite (Nicholas Jackson, Matthew Jackson, "The Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada) are going to hire their friends and that "Scapegoat" Jack Perry can finally be himself, who is a child who takes everything for granted. Darby says he puts his body on the line because he takes nothing for granted, and wishes that Perry had gotten fired as nobody misses him and Perry added nothing to AEW. He says that it will all come to an end at All In.
Darby Allin is attacked with a flying knee by "Scapegoat" Jack Perry on the stage before dragging Darby to the back. Backstage, Perry and Darby brawl, and Perry traps Darby underneath a metal door before telling Darby that he only sacrifices for himself and pretends to be a hero. Security gets involved before Perry can ram a road crate into Darby's head.
We hear from "The Glamour" Mariah May, who asks if it is better to be remember or to be forgotten; to be her to be "Timeless" Toni Storm. She says that last year, Toni failed, and this year, it is all about her. She says Toni's biggest mistake was being alive at the same time as her, and if she wants to be a star, then it is time for her to burn, and Toni will be obsessed with her until the day she dies. Mariah says that she will look out the window and wonder what happen to Toni, then says both of them will die and that she will be the one to write her eulogy.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Mina Shirakawa, who has not heard from Mariah May and has not spoken with "Timeless" Toni Storm. She did not expect Mariah to be so vicious and Toni to be so upset. She just hopes that neither of them really get hurt.
Darby Allin vs "Scapegoat" Jack Perry for the TNT Championship at All In is officially a Coffin Match.
Orange Cassidy beats Kyle O'Reilly and Roderick Strong to earn the #1 spot in the Casino Gauntlet Match at All In with a crucifix pin to O'Reilly as O'Reilly has a cross arm breaker on Strong. During the match, Matt Taven and Mike Bennett show up with metal folding chairs, but they are beaten up and forced back to the back by Mark Briscoe and Tomohiro Ishii.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Claudio Castagnoli and "The Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada for a no-physicality face-to-face match. Claudio Castagnoli says the Continental Championship for him to lose, and when he did not win it last year, he was crushed, but he has another shot and he wants to make it count in Europe. Okada calls Claudio "passionate," then says he is the greatest tournament winner of all time and that Claudio will respect him when he beats him in Cardiff, Wales and continues on to the Continental Classic, then says "Good luck, bitch." After Okada leaves, Claudio says he wants "the true Rainmaker" and not the Okada he just saw, as he will bring his best like he does every time he gets in the ring, and hopes Okada will be ready because he will have 99 problems, and "this bitch" will be number one.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews The Patriarchy (Christian Cage, "The Prodigy" Nick Wayne, Killswitch, Mama Wayne). Christian Cage says that he called the main event of Collision right down the middle like he said he would and that it was on both teams that they could not get up before the count of ten. Christian then claims that he will hold all the titles in AEW at the same time, and that "The Prodigy" Nick Wayne will make an example out of Kip Sabian, then removes Renee from the interview as he says that The Patriarchy will reign over AEW now and forever.
Tony Schiavone interviews Hook in the ring. Hook shows up with a bandage over his left eye. Hook says he cannot see out of his left eye, then says that the problem for "The Learning Tree" Chris Jericho is that he can see Jericho with the other and he is sick of his shit. He says he wants his title back, and he wants Jericho right now. The Learning Tree (Chris Jericho, Big Bill, "The Bad Apple" Bryan Keith) shows up, and Jericho calls Hook "one stupid son of a bitch" who still wants to challenge him even after he was blinded in one eye, then teases fighting Hook before telling him he is not getting a fight. Jericho says Norfolk, Virginia is not worth his time, but Wembley Stadium in London, England is, and he will get his match, on the condition that it is Hook's final shot at the FTW Championship. He also gives Hook the match on the condition that Hook faces Big Bill in Cardiff. Big Bill says he will beat Hook down and shove him "straight up Taz's ass," which Bryan Keith reiterates. Hook accepts the match, saying he looks forward to dropping Big Bill on his head and tearing Jericho limb from limb, and after Wembley Stadium, Jericho will "never, ever be the same again."
The Young Bucks (Matthew and Nicholas Jackson) retain the AEW World Tag Team Championships against The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster and Anthony Bowens) by disqualification after FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) show up to revive the ref after he is sandwiched between the corner and Max Caster by Nicholas Jackson only for Harwood to beat Nicholas up for spitting at him. "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn (who has been ejected from the match earlier after The Young Bucks tricked him into doing it) and security show up to stop both FTR and The Acclaimed from brawling as The Young Bucks walk away with a disqualification win. Afterwards, Renee Paquette interviews Interim EVP Christopher Daniels after both have watched the match. Daniels announces that on Collision, FTR and The Acclaimed will face off, with the winners facing The Young Bucks for the tag titles at All In.
We see a video package celebrating the career of "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson.
"The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson is in the front row for the next match.
Swerve Strickland beats Wheeler Yuta by referee stoppage following a boot to the face and two House Calls before kicking Yuta's face in. After the match, Danielson runs to the ring to save Yuta, and Swerve says that what he did to Yuta is an example of what he will do to Danielson in two weeks. Swerve then hopes Danielson brings his family so his daughter can watch his last match as he cripples him and forces him to fulfill his retirement promise. Swerve walks away, then runs back into the ring and hits Danielson with a House Call before mocking him.
Montez Ford vs. Austin Theory ends in a time-limit draw, with both men continuing to fight after the match. Both men are eliminated from the sixth tournament to declare a #1 contender for Andrade's WWE Speed Championship, and as a result, Je'Von Evans advances unopposed to the semi-finals.
The Judgment Day (Damian Priest, Rhea Ripley, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio) heads to the ring to start tonight's show, with Finn Balor once again not being seen in the group. Damian Priest says that Finn Balor should have won the World Heavyweight Championship and that they should have won their match last week, but as long as he is Mr. Money In The Bank, The Judgment Day still dictates what happens around here. He says Finn Balor will handle Cody Rhodes, then says that The Judgment Day is not going anywhere and that he and Finn are smarter than that, then admits that Finn Balor should be here. As Damian Priest says there are obvious problems in The Judgment Day, JD McDonagh shows up and tells them that they have a message from Finn, telling them not to worry about their friendship and worry about "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Sami Zayn. As he tells them to take care of Cody and Sami, Rhea says they take orders from nobody, especially from outsiders, and Dominik says that they have everything on lockdown as he is booed before calling Canada "a dump." Dominik tells McDonagh to head to the back, and Rhea Ripley tells McDonagh to tell Finn that they need to talk. Sami Zayn shows up, and McDonagh unsuccessfully heads him off at the pass before getting beaten up, and The Judgment Day look on as they leave.
Sami Zayn beats JD McDonagh. During the match, Finn Balor shows up and distracts Sami, but Sami is able to fight on and get the feet up to block a top rope moonsault from McDonagh before fending off Finn and hitting McDonagh with the Helluva Kick for the win.
Backstage, WWE official Adam Pearce meets with Chelsea Green, who says that she has worked too hard for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship and threatens to call Human Resources if he strips her of them. When Pearce asks Chelsea what she would do, Chelsea says she would hold auditions for a new tag team partner. Katana Chance and Kayden Carter show up and propose a challenge for when Chelsea gets a new partner, then Piper Niven shows up and attacks Kacy before declaring herself Chelsea's new partner and taking one of the women's tag belts.
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Cody admits he admires Finn Balor after seeing his career in Japan as well as in WWE, then acknowledges the rest of The Judgment Day for stating he will be ready for all four members of the group.
Imperium (Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci) head to the ring. Gunther states that on his journey to becoming the greatest Intercontinental Champion of all time, he has arrived in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, and while he looks forward to coming to Canada, he understands why Winnipeg is called "the armpit of Canada." He then addresses Chad Gable, the next #1 contender to his championship, admitting that he was impressed with his victory last week and stating that he has been working hard as the best athlete WWE has to offer. He then states that he has done more in a year than Gable is to his career, and considers the notion that Gable is a threat "ridiculous" before Alpha Academy (Chad Gable, Otis, Maxxine Dupri) shows up and Gable shooshes Gunther. Gable mentions lasting more than five minutes against Gunther two weeks ago, then tells Gunther that he is on the clock for the longest-reigning Intercontinental Championship and that he is standing in the way of that. He says he has been working for an opportunity for ten years and that he is at Gunther's heels, nipping him down and ready to take his title. He then tells Vinci, his opponent for tonight, to get in the ring and catch some free lessons from him. Kaiser says that Vinci belongs to the "creme de la creme" that WWE has to offer and that Vinci will embarrass Gable just like he embarrassed Otis last week, and that eventually, Maxxine Dupri will surround herself with "European elegance" with "A+ aesthetics." Kaiser then calls Alpha Academy "a sinking ship" and tells Maxxine that he is reaching his hand out to her, and she can either let him save her or "let that 360-pound anchor drag her down" until she is "an absolute embarrassment" like them. Maxxine responds by slapping Kaiser again.
Chad Gable beats Giovanni Vinci. After the match, Gunther says this is not how tonight will end before challenging Otis to a match.
Gunther beats Otis. After the match, Chad Gable runs into the ring and hits Gunther with a German suplex.
Backstage, Finn Balor and Damian Priest argue, and Rhea Ripley tells them to stop, as everyone wants to see them crumble. He says that nobody is scared of them and that they are losing their killer instinct, and that they have to get what is theirs. JD McDonagh shows up, and Finn Balor tells him they will talk later after Priest tells McDonagh to step away from their business. Finn tells Priest this is about them, not him and McDonagh, and that he will take care of Cody Rhodes tonight.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Jackie Redmond interviews Drew McIntyre. On the subject of what is next for him, McIntyre is suddenly met by Matt Riddle, who wants to start a new tag team. He has answered The Viking Raiders' (Ivar and Erik) open challenge, and asks McIntyre to be his tag team partner. McIntyre says that if Riddle cannot find a tag team partner, he will consider it.
We hear from Indi Hartwell, who is struggling to find out who she is. She says that doubt kills dreams and that she is done with doubt, and that she has come from Melbourne, Australia for this moment, right here, right now.
Before the next match, Drew McIntyre heads to the ring to be Matt Riddle's tag team partner.
Drew McIntyre and Matt Riddle beat The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik).
Backstage, Raquel Rodriguez meets with Indi Hartwell and Candice LeRae and mentions that she still cannot get cleared. Candice tells Raquel to be patient, for she will get her chance, then Raquel tells Indi that this is her night and make it hers.
Backstage, Matt Riddle talks with Drew McIntyre and entertains the idea of being tag team champions together. The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) shows up, and Xavier Woods takes offense to Riddle trying to horn in on the tag team titles on Kofi's birthday before Kofi Kingston says Riddle and McIntyre are not a real team and cannot just get a shot at the tag team titles before challenging them to a tag match next week. Riddle accepts on McIntyre's behalf.
Rhea Ripley beats Indi Hartwell. After the match, Candice LeRae fights Rhea Ripley, but Rhea Ripley fights back. Candice and Indi double-team Rhea Ripley, then retreat.
Michael Cole interviews Shinsuke Nakamura in the ring. When asked why he attacked Seth "Freakin'" Rollins last week, Nakamura says he wants the World Heavyweight Championship, then says he will win the title before Seth Rollins shows up. Rollins gives Nakamura credit where credit is due for "playing it to perfection" and knocking him out over the World Heavyweight Championship, then says that Nakamura is not telling the whole story and that he is not hard to find. He also tells Nakamura that he is a fighting champion and that until he had the utmost respect for him until last week, and says all Nakamura had to do was ask. He then says he is less concerned about why Nakamura kicked him in the face and more concerned about how to get even.Rollins then realized that in order to get what he wants, he must give Nakamura what he wants, and if Nakamura wants to challenge him, then he accepts that challenge, and all Nakamura has to do is name the time and place so he can kick his ass. He then says that they should both give the people what they want and shake his hand and leave while the fans sing his song. Nakamura shakes his hand Nakamura whispers something in Rollins' ear, which confounds Rollins. All of a sudden, Nakamura slides back into the ring and hits Rollins with a Kinshasa.
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews The Miz, who states that LA Knight did not shake his hand and accuses Saxton of being a LA Knight fan before stating he will beat someone bigger, faster, stronger and more dominant than anyone Knight has faced in his career.
Trish Stratus vs. Becky Lynch ends in a double count-out as both women fight near the barricade and into the crowd. After the match, Becky and Trish fight their way onto the concourse. All of a sudden, Becky is attacked by a hooded Zoey Stark.
Backstage, Imperium (Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci) talks amongst each other. Gunther says tonight was an absolute embarrassment, and says that ever since they came to Raw, Vinci has been an embarrassment and Kaiser has lost focus. Kaiser says this will never happen again, and Gunther tells him he will sort this out himself. He says that if Gable wants his title, he will have to take it off of him next week.
Backstage, WWE official Adam Pearce confronts Trish Stratus and Zoey Stark for wiggling out of a match with Becky, then makes another rematch, this time in a steel cage.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Finn Balor. Rhea Ripley and "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio show up during the match, and Damian Priest shows up later. Later on in the match, Rhea Ripley slides a chair into the ring, and when the referee takes it away, Priest slides the Money In The Bank briefcase to Finn only for it to slide past Finn towards Cody instead. Cody then uses the briefcase as a weapon to get the win. After the match, Priest and Dominik gang up on Cody, then Sami Zayn fights his way to the ring with a chair, where he fends off The Judgment Day. Sami is suddenly attacked from behind by JD McDonagh, and Finn and Priest gang up on Sami before McDonagh warns Priest about Cody. Priest hits Cody with South of Heaven, then Finn hits Cody with the Coup de Grace. Finn then tosses Sami to Rhea and Dominik, who then gang up on Sami before Priest slams Sami through the announce table with the Razor's Edge. Afterwards, Finn hits Cody with another Coup de Grace to end the show.
This week on Raw Talk: Alpha Academy (Chad Gable, Otis, Maxxine Dupri)! "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler! Shinsuke Nakamura!
Danny Limelight beats Slice Boogie with a roll-up to counter the Statue of Misery followed by a grabbing of the tights to qualify for the Golden Opportunity.
Alex Gracia and Savanna Stone beat Mylo and Johnnie Robbie.
Megan Harmon interviews The Institution ("Benevolent" Jack Banning, Hunter Freeman, Brendan Divine, Honest John). Jack Banning says his Golden Opportunity qualifier is behind them and his hand has been raised, and he plans to take the United World title and use its power to spread their message. He says that with the power and reach of the United World Championship, eyes will be on them, ears will be opened and The Institution will take over everyone's living rooms and spread the truth.
Backstage, Megan Harmon interviews The Embassy (Prince Nana, Invictus Khash, Jordan Clearwater). Prince Nana says he told everyone that a new member of The Embassy would be walking through the curtain, and Jordan Clearwater admits he has been seeing offers from all over the world. He says that everyone all over the world wants his championship, but The Embassy's offer is the most lucrative even as he wants big money matches. He also tells Frankie Kazarian to go ask Chris Dickinson how facing him worked out for him. Clearwater also states that Kazarian will soon find out that he is not just king of California, but king of the entire world.
Before the next match, Dom Kubrick hits Lord Crewe with a springboard drop kick from behind, then punches Halston Boddy in the face.
Lord Crewe quickly Dom Kubrick despite Kubruck getting the jump on him before the match.
Backstage, Jack Famer interviews "Outlandish" Zicky Dice. Zicky Dice - who is running on no sleep - asks who wants to be embarrassed next after he has proven he is the best United Heritage Champion of all time, then a representative shows up and says EJ Sparks deserves another shot at the Heritage Championship. At Golden Opportunity, EJ Sparks will have a rematch against Zicky Dice with the United Heritage Championship on the line. He also tells Zicky Dice to get some rest.
"The Golden Boy" Jordan Clearwater retains the United World Championship against Frankie Kazarian after Kazarian rolls Clearwater up only for Clearwater to push Kazarian forward and into a title belt shot by Prince Nana from the outside.
Ian Riccaboni substitutes for Quinn McKay at the start of this week's show.
We hear from Holidead and Max The Impaler prior to their ROH Women's Championship Tournament match. Amy Rose speaks for Max The Impaler, saying that Holidead punched her ticket to destruction and that it will only be a matter of time before Max The Impaler is ROH Women's Champion.
Max The Impaler beats Holidead to advance to the quarterfinals of the ROH Women's Championship Tournament.
Next week: Rok-C vs. Quinn McKay and Miranda Alize vs. Nicole Savoy in the quarterfinals of the ROH Women's Championship Tournament!
We hear from Matt Taven, who says that life is meaningless without the memories it brings, yet the meaning of those memories can change, and happiness becomes a source of anger. Taven says his ego is what brought him to ROH, and that both he and Vincent would be nothing without their ego. He says that Vincent owes everything to him, and Vincent has tried to repay him by taking everything from him. He says that he will not let that happen, and that he will find out why he is Matt Taven at Glory By Honor. He then says that he will once again become ROH World Champion.
The Briscoes (Jay and Mark Briscoe), EC3, Josh Woods and "The Mercenary" Flip Gordon vs. VLNCE UNLTD (Chris Dickinson and Homicide), Bandido, Jonathan Gresham and Dragon Lee in an Champions vs. All-Stars Match. Both teams continue to brawl on the outside as Flip Gordon stands tall in the ring.
This Saturday night saw free wrestling over in Newport, Arkansas. Here are the results for some of the matches, in no particular order:
"Smokin' Hot" Nikki Lane retains the Memphis Women's Championship against Carter Matthews in an intergender match.
The Revenant of Walker Hayes beats DreSean Prince.
Austin Lane, Xcalibur and Seth Sabor beat The Hollywood Horror Show (Jacksyn Crowley, Otis Crowley and The Revenant of Walker Hayes) in a no-disqualification match with Newport Greyhounds head coach Mark Hindsley as the special ringside enforcer in the main event. The match starts out as Austin Lane and Xcalibur vs. The Crowleys (Jacksyn and Otis Crowley), but The Revenant of Walker Hayes gets involved in the match, but Seth Sabor runs into the ring to even the odds. The match ends after Mark Hindsley puts Walker Hayes through a table.
"The GunShow" Brett Michaels beats Chris Hayes. After the match, Dustin Starr interviews Brett Michaels. Brett says it doesn't matter how big and bad someone is, as nobody is coming to his house to run Memphis down and he will take out the opposition. As for what's next, he tells the fans to get ready for the next Memphis Heritage Champion.
In footage from last week's Memphis Wrestling Saturday Night, Alan Steel retains the Memphis Heritage Championship against Lil Chris in a Street Fight.
We hear from Lil Chris, who says that he will give the devil his due and admits that while Alan Steel and Johnny Dotson took him out of action for four to six weeks last week, and that he is looking for a fight. He then says that next Saturday, he will be at the WrestleCenter and he will not be coming alone.
In footage from last week's Memphis Wrestling Saturday Night, The Yung GOATs (Aaron Roberts and Zay Washington) beat The Skimahorns (Brad and Briar Skimahorn) to become the Memphis Tag Team Champions.
Dustin Starr interviews The Skimahorns (Brad Skimahorn, Briar Skimahorn, Uncle Mikey) at the announce table. Uncle Mikey tells Brad and Briar that their tag team title loss is on them and that he cannot do everything for them, and that they must rise up and do the work themselves. Brad and Briar guests on commentary for the next match.
"Big Swole" Justin Cole beats Uncle Mikey. During the match, Brad Skimahorn distracts the referee as Justin Cole gets Mikey up. Briar Skimahorn helps Mikey get back down, and Mikey hits the discus clothesline to the back. Big Swole soon pushes Mikey into Brad, knocking him off the ring apron. Big Swole wins, then Mike Anthony runs The Skimahorns out of the ring. During the match, Mike Anthony runs The Skimahorns (Brad and Briar Skimahorn) off from the announce table to ringside. Mike Anthony reveals on commentary that he is here to watch "Big Swole" Justin Cole, as they are both going for the same prize: the Memphis Heritage Championship.
Dustin Starr interviews "The Best of the Best" Austin Lane at the announce table. Austin Lane hypes up the free Monster Nights show at Newport, Arkansas, and after it is mentioned that Connor's whereabouts are being checked on, Austin Lane issues another Best of the Best Challenge. The challenge is answered by "Casanova" Colton Cage.
"The Best of the Best" Austin Lane beats "Casanova" Colton Cage despite the distraction by Ryan Pyles.
In footage from last week's Memphis Wrestling Saturday Night, "DDT" Diana Taylor beats Paris Kelly with the DDT.
"DDT" Diana Taylor beats Miss Beronica. After the match, Van Viciouss helps Miss Beronica out of the ring and accompanies her to the back.
Dustin Starr interviews "Tiger" Joe Exotic at the announce table. Tiger Joe says that he has heard that Memphis is full of kings, but has yet to find one. He then says he is in cages with tigers all of the time and says a wrestling ring cannot be much different, much to the misgivings of Dustin. He then says that he is not done yet, saying he will be back and that he wants a king or else he will take Memphis over.
The Crowleys (Jacksyn and Otis Crowley) beat Carter Matthews and "The King of POW" Chris Lexx after Jacksyn Crowley smothers Carter Matthews - who tags himself in as Chris Lexx does his countdown - with a rag.
"Tiger" Joe Exotic shows up, saying that he was unable to find a challenge backstage. Suddenly, Derrick King shows up and says he is the only king in Memphis. Danny B. Good also shows up before Tiger Joe slaps Derrick King after saying he sucks. Referees and security have to separate both men afterwards to end the show.
Heather Monroe vs. Lacey Ryan in a Taped Fist Match in Match 5 of their best-of-seven series from October 10, 2020
Nikko Marquez cancels the women's division (from October 3, 2020)
We look back on David Marquez announcing that Nikko Marquez has been arrested following the Taped Fist Match riot, as well as Nikko Marquez cancelling the women's division the following week. (October 17, 2020)
We hear the official response to Nikko Marquez's cancelling the women's division and the reveal of a United Women's Championship (October 24, 2020)
Heather Monroe and Halston Boddy vs. CeCe Chanel and Ruby Raze from the 500th Episode Spectacular (December 26, 2020), and the events leading up to it
Heather Monroe vs CeCe Chanel vs Viva Van with special guest referee Mylo Matters from April 10, 2021
It is announced that every entrance and exit of the WWE Performance Center is guarded by security to keep Retribution out.
Big E vs. John Morrison ends before it can begin when Retribution shows up and attack both men. Michael Cole and Corey Graves run away when Retribution show up. After Retribution run away, The Miz checks on John Morrison.
Backstage, everyone is taking about Retribution, and The Miz blames Big E's recent Twitter tweets for Retribution attacking. After Miz and John Morrison leaves, Baron Corbin declares himself leader of the locker room, but Big E tells him to shut up and that he is not defeated. Big E says he will get back in the ring and beat John Morrison and that is time for the locker room to take the show back, then Sheamus shows up to mock Big E, saying Retribution attacked him because he is alone and vulnerable. Sheamus says that Retribution will not dare show up during his match, as he knows they are not afraid of him. Big E tells Sheamus that if he had any sense, he would know he is not alone.
Bayley and Sasha Banks are in the ring. Sasha mentions that she has to defend the Raw Women's title along with the tag team titles, then says that tonight is all about Bayley, who says Stephanie McMahon tried to rain on her parade but could not hold her and Sasha down. Bayley and Sasha then kick Greg Hamilton out of the ring so they can announce all of the competitors in the triple brand women's battle royal where the winner faces Bayley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship. This continues until they find out that Asuka is in the battle royal, and Asuka runs out and attacks Bayley and Sasha, which allows the rest of the competitors in the battle royal to show up.
Asuka last eliminates "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler in a triple brand women's battle royal to face Bayley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship at SummerSlam.
Backstage, Bayley and Sasha are not happy about Asuka's battle royal win, and Sasha tells Bayley that they both have Asuka. As Bayley walks away, she and Sasha are attacked by Asuka.
We hear from Mandy Rose, who says that while some of things Sonya Deville says about how people perceive her is true, she has been made fun of for her looks and accused of being handed things her whole life and that it still hurts. She says that she had three jobs while working towards a bikini championship and that WWE did not fall into her lap, and while Sonya should know how hard she worked, she thanks Sonya for reminding her she is more than a pretty face. Mandy says that making her look ugly will not destroy her, and challenges Sonya to a hair vs. hair match at SummerSlam, telling Sonya to put her money where her mouth.
Backstage, Sheamus tells security to take a hike, as Retribution will not attack while he is around.
Backstage, Nikki Cross spots Alexa Bliss. She hugs her and apologizes for her behavior from last week, then shows some concern for her safety after what happened with The Fiend. Alexa says she is fine and that she is going to look for answers from Braun Strowman.
Sheamus beats Shorty G.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles shows up with a man in a suit (who is played by Chris Parks aka Abyss). AJ Styles says that there are more pressing matters than Retribution, such as who will face him for the Intercontinental Championship at SummerSlam. He says he wants to enjoy being champion, but so many people want to know who he is facing next. He also says that people want to throw out statistics, and it took looking at statistics during a baseball game to realize he cares about statistics. He then says he has hired someone to crunch the numbers and has hired a time to come up with a system called the "Phenomenal Intercontinental Statistic System" to find his next opponent, and announces that the next challenger must earn a match by merit. Styles mentions that he is #1 after uncovering part of a whiteboard, then reveals that nobody is worthy of facing him for the Intercontinental Championship after revealing the rest of the whiteboard, saying nobody has earned it. Styles says that somebody can get on the board if they work hard enough, then Jeff Hardy shows up. Jeff says that while he has respect for Styles and what he has done, he did not get a fair chance at the title thanks to Sheamus and says it could have been both of them in the finals of the recent tournament. Jeff talks about how he won the title and stood on his own two feet years ago, and after saying that he knows who he is and what he has accomplished, he proposes that the two of them have a match for the Intercontinental Championship. Styles says that while he has always respected Jeff and known him for a very long time, and admits a lot of people would love to see them in a WWE ring together after all that Jeff has done in WWE, and says that Jeff deserves to be on the board. Styles then declines his challenge, saying Jeff has not earned the right to be on the board and that this is not a pity party. This starts a brawl between Jeff and Styles where Jeff comes out on top before putting his own name on the board.
Backstage, Cesaro talks with Shinsuke Nakamura about how they are the greatest tag team champions and that Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik) cannot do anything against them. Lucha House Party then show up and steal the SmackDown tag titles, and Cesaro and Nakamura chase after them.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews AJ Styles, who says that Jeff Hardy assaulted him and does not respect him, the Intercontinental Championship or statistics. He says that if Jeff Hardy wants a piece of him, he will find out the hard way that he will get erased for messing with him.
Gran Metalik beats Shinsuke Nakamura after Kalisto shows up for the first time in months, distracting Cesaro and Nakamura and allowing Metalik to hit an elbow from the top of the ropes for the win. It is announced during the match that WWE will be in a different location next week and that the fans will play a big role in next week's show.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Matt Riddle. Riddle says that nobody likes a bounty on their head as it is pretty hard, and while he is a laid-back guy, he is here to "bro down and throw down." He also says that King Corbin calls himself a king, but that he is a royal pain. Riddle says he has done everything to get his attention, then Shorty G shows up. Shorty G says he got caught up in the "king's ransom" stuff and that while he has a family to feed, it does not justify his actions and that it is not him to do that. Shorty G apologizes, and both men fistbump. Riddle tells Shorty G to call him if he wants a match, then he is attacked from behind by Corbin. Corbin then thanks Shorty G for the help and leaves.
We hear from Alexa Bliss, who says she has been better after the last few months. On the subject of Braun Strowman, he was intimidating at first until she got to know him, then they got to be friends. Alexa says that she and Braun cared about each other a lot, but that she does not know if that is why The Fiend attacked her. She calls The Fiend's presence "scary and terrifying, and also compelling," and that one can feel his presence once one has interacted with him. On the subject of Braun saying she did not care about her, Alexa is at a loss for words.
Next week: Jeff Hardy vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles for the Intercontinental Championship!
We hear from Sonya Deville, who says that she is surprised by Mandy Rose's challenge and that Mandy got aggressive from having her hair cut. She says that while Mandy may think she may have gotten over her insecurities, she says that she will make Mandy know that people say things about her because they are true before accepting her challenge at SummerSlam.
The Miz guests on commentary for the next match.
Big E beats John Morrison with the Stretch Muffler. During the match, Otis confronts The Miz over comments Miz made about him. After the commercial break, the SmackDown locker room is now surrounding ringside after the commercial break. It is not long before Retribution go on the attack backstage. After the backstage attack, more anti-WWE graffiti is spray painted on a wall. The SmackDown locker room is soon alerted to what is going on in the back as the match continues. After the match, Big E falls victim to a Brogue Kick from Sheamus, then Braun Strowman - now with a bald head - shows up.
Braun Strowman is in the ring after the commercial break. He tells The Fiend that he knows what he is going to get when it comes to him, and says he promised him he would be "the most evil son-of-a-bitch" anyone has ever seen after coming out of the swamp. He tells The Fiend to come to the ring so he can eviscerate him and eat his entrails as he looks up at the lights, then Alexa Bliss shows up. Alexa, knowing that she risks making him angrier, asks Braun what is going on, and this is not the Braun that she knows. Braun says that Alexa used him as a pawn and tried to change him into something he is not, and that he is not a clown that can be led around by his beard. He also tells her that anyone who comes in contact with The Fiend is changed, including her, and tells her to get out of the ring, as he wants The Fiend. Alexa tells Braun to be careful what he wishes for, and threatens to slap some sense into him. After Alexa tells Braun to look at him, Alexa slaps him in the face multiple times, but Braun simply smiles before lifting her over her head. As he carries Alexa around, the lights slowly go out, signaling The Fiend's presence. When Braun tosses Alexa upwards, the lights go completely out. When the red lights come on, Braun is gone and The Fiend is in the ring while Alexa is on the mat. Braun is then seen on the TitanTron. Braun laughs, as does The Fiend, and Braun screams as the show ends.
Breezango (Tyler Breeze and Fandango) beat The Forgotten Sons (Steve Cutler and Wesley Blake).
In backstage footage from NXT TakeOver, Cathy Kelley interviews Pete Dunne, who says he should be standing here starting his next title run, and if it weren't for the referee being stopped by Velveteen Dream, he would be North American Champion by now. Dunne says that Velveteen Dream did whatever he had to do to keep the title, and that he will do whatever he has to do to take the title from him.
We see a video package of the NXT Breakout Tournament so far.
In footage from NXT TakeOver, Cathy Kelley interviews Bobby Fish and Kyle O'Reilly, who demand where General Manager William Regal is. O'Reilly says that the legal man was not pinned, and that they lost due to incompetence. It is then revealed that Bobby Fish did inadvertently make a legal tag during the match.
We see a video package for Io Shirai vs. Candace LeRae at NXT TakeOver: Toronto.
In footage from NXT TakeOver, Cathy Kelley interviews "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler, who only says "And still..."
We see a video package for Johnny Gargano vs. Adam Cole for the NXT Championship in a two-out-of-three falls match with multiple stipulations at NXT TakeOver: Toronto which features some exclusive footage.
Next week: Matt Riddle vs. Killian Dain!
Jordan Myles beats Cameron Grimes to win the NXT Breakout Tournament. As a result of this win, Jordan Myles can challenge for an NXT title of his choosing. General Manager William Regal joins Jordan Myles on the stage and hands him a contract for the championship opportunity.
"Flash" Morgan Webster gets a surprise win on Mark Coffey with a small package.
Backstage, Radzi interviews Toni Storm. Storm says Kay Lee Ray says a lot of things, but she will be ready for her at NXT UK TakeOver: Cardiff.
We see footage from moments ago where Jordan Devlin is being interviewed when Piper Niven and Rhea Ripley start brawling. Referees and officials have to separate both women.
Noam Dar guests on commentary for the next match.
"The Kiwi Buzzsaw" Travis Banks beats "The Lucky Yin" Kenny Williams. After the match, Banks has a stare down with Noam Dar as Noam patronizingly congratulates him.
Nina Samuels beats Isla Dawn.
In footage from earlier today, General Manager Johnny Saint and Assistant Sid Scala announce that "Bomber" Dave Mastiff and Joe Coffey will have a rematch at NXT UK TakeOver: Cardiff, and that it will be a Last Man Standing Match.
We see footage from earlier this week of Walter training students at WXW Wrestling Academy in Essex, Germany. It soon becomes apparent that Walter is taking his anger with Tyler Bate out on his students. Walter looks into the camera and dares Tyler Bate to meet him face-to-face next week.
Next week: The Hunt ("Wild Boar" Mike Hitchman and "The Primate" Jay Melrose) vs. Imperium (Fabian Aichner and Marcel Barthel)!
Kassius Ohno beats Ilya Dragunov, handing Dragunov his first NXT UK loss.
Before the next match, Lio Rush shows up and says the fans are lucky, as while they still live in a garbage city and an embarrassment of a state, they get to see him come and collect. He says that Akira Tozawa is one of the best, but only one of the best, and says that he should have kept his name out of his mouth. Now, he is going to feel the rush in their rematch tonight.
Lio Rush beats Akira Tozawa.
We see a video package of Drew Gulak and his preparations for his WWE Cruiserweight Championship match against Cedric Alexander at SummerSlam.
Kayla Braxton interviews General Manager Drake Maverick, who announces that Mustafa Ali has been suffering from exhaustion and is expected to make a full recovery. He feels he is to blame, however. While Mustafa Ali is the heart of 205 Live, Drake Maverick announces that Mustafa Ali will not compete in a 205 Live ring until he is confident that Mustafa Ali is 100% again.
Hideo Itami beats Trent Newman by referee stoppage following two basement drop kicks in the corner. After the match, Hideo Itami gets one last shot on Trent Newman.
Next week: Noam Dar vs. TJP!
We see a video package of Cedric Alexander's preparations for his WWE Cruiserweight Championship defense against Drew Gulak at SummerSlam.
Backstage, General Manager Drake Maverick is met by "The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese and Buddy Murphy. He is not happy about Murphy helping Nese get the win last week, and next week, Murphy and Nese will face The Lucha House Party (Kalisto, Lince Dorado, Gran Metalik) in a tornado tag match. Murphy simply says "You're the boss," then he and Nese leave.
Cedric Alexander beats "Gentleman" Jack Gallagher. After the match, Cedric Alexander is attacked from behind by The Brian Kendrick, and Alexander has to fend off Gallagher and Kendrick in the ring. Kendrick goes for a Captain's Hook but falls victim to a Lumbar Check. Suddenly, Drew Gulak gets Cedric Alexander from behind and locks in the Gu-Lock. He then lays the WWE Cruiserweight Championship on a downed Alexander.
Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch and Carmella show up to start tonight's show. Carmella says the only thing as absurd as General Manager Paige making her defend the SmackDown Women's Championship is Paige forcing her to be part of this face-to-face meeting. She is tired of Charlotte and Becky's face as well as being punished for being a great champion, then says life is good as the champion. She says that Becky Lynch does not stand a chance, and should go back to being a clown for a living as it is the one thing she does better than Charlotte. Becky admits that she doesn't want Charlotte in this match, and while she lost sleep over beating Carmella, she now has a new dream of beating Carmella and whupping Charlotte. Carmella laughs and asks Becky if she knows how hard it is to beat Charlotte, then says she beat her twice because she is fabulous, despite Charlotte's accolades in the WWE so far, to which Becky's pale in comparison. Charlotte tells Carmella the lies, cheating and manipulation end at SummerSlam, and knows that Carmella has to do anything and everything to hold on to the SmackDown Women's Championship, even going so far as bringing out James Ellsworth to retain against Asuka. Charlotte then calls Carmella "a diva living in a women's era." Carmella then admits she is a diva before saying she is damn proud of it, as she has something Becky and Charlotte will never have: beauty, fitness, charisma and a championship. Before things can get even more tense, however, Paige shows up. Paige says her job as General Manager is to create the best matches as possible for SummerSlam, and that Charlotte earned her spot at SummerSlam thanks to Carmella. She also says that all three women will steal the show at SummerSlam, just like they will tonight. Carmella is put on the commentary table, because talking is apparently what she does best, while Becky and Charlotte are placed in a tag team match against Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville.
Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch beat Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville with a Dis-Arm-Her to Mandy Rose following a kick-out from an inside cradle. After the match, Carmella stands on the commentary table and raises up the SmackDown Women's Championship.
We hear from The Miz and Maryse, who plug Miz and Mrs. as the hottest show on USA Network in years before announcing that the show has picked up a second season halfway through the first one. They promise the second season will be even better than the first.
Backstage, Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair congratulate each other on winning and wish each other good luck at SummerSlam.
The Bludgeon Brothers (Harper and Rowan) decimate The Triple Threat (none of whom are named) in destructive fashion before the bell rings for their three-on-two handicap match.
It is announced that the October 16th episode of SmackDown Live on October 16th in Washington, DC will be the 1000th episode of SmackDown.
We see the first of three parts of a video package chronicling the eight-year tiff between The Miz and Daniel Bryan, and focuses on their time in NXT. Here, The Miz calls Daniel Bryan a rookie who couldn't shut up and listen and Daniel Bryan calls The Miz an arrogant wrestler who tried to make him the next Miz.
The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Big E, Xavier Woods) beat SAnitY (Eric Young, Alexander Wolfe, Killian Dain).
We see the second of three parts of a video package chronicling the eight-year tiff between Daniel Bryan and The Miz, which chronicles their scathing confrontation on Talking Smack.
It is announced that The Miz and Maryse will be on Today on NBC on 10 AM Eastern.
Backstage, General Manager Paige meets with Samoa Joe, and demands that Joe be professional so that SummerSlam does not get ruined. Joe says he cannot be unpredictable while being professional, and says he will do what he wants when he wants it. He also proposes staying backstage and enjoying her work, then tells her to enjoy her night because he knows he will enjoy his.
Aiden English is in the ring. He sings that he will make amends to Rusev and Lana tonight and beat Andrade "Cien" Almas for Rusev Day.
Andrade "Cien" Almas beats Aiden English. After the match, Zelina Vega says that if the fans love catchy tunes and made-up holidays, then they should mark their calendars for this Sunday, as Rusev Day and Lana Day will come to an end as she will expose Lana as dead weight to Rusev. Suddenly, Lana and Rusev show up. Rusev says Almas and Vega act like they just won the Powerball, and says Almas' luck runs out on Sunday and Vega will learn why Lana is the best and number one. Lana says that together, she and Rusev will crush Almas and Vega, as SummerSlam will fall on Rusev Day.
Backstage, General Manager Paige is met by AJ Styles. She warns him to be professional so that SummerSlam isn't ruined. Styles says he made a promise to his wife, and he intends on keeping it, implying that he will comply.
We look back on the Independence Day food fight of 2016, courtesy of Popeyes Chicken.
We see the third of three parts of a video package chronicling the eight-year tiff between Daniel Bryan and The Miz, which focuses on Daniel Bryan's recent return to in-ring action and what has happened since.
Jeff Hardy beats Shelton Benjamin in his first match in a few weeks. After the match, "The Artist" Shinsuke Nakamura shows up, and after Jeff Hardy knocks Shelton Benjamin off the ring apron, Nakamura runs into the ring, takes Hardy down and nearly hits the Kinshasa only to fall victim to the Twist of Fate and a Swanton Bomb. Meanwhile, Randy Orton is seen hiding behind the stage area, watching Jeff Hardy.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles shows up. Styles says that for almost twenty years, he has been able to travel the world and compete against the best, and he has learned a lot. He says there no more important a lesson learned than after he won the WWE Championship, as whoever wins it has a target on his back, and says that Samoa Joe got his number. He says it began when Joe blindsided him three weeks ago, and says that just when he thinks he knows Joe, he stabs him in the back and then in the heart by saying he put his career over his family. Styles says Joe got him to lose his cool and talk about something private and personal: his family. He felt that as a man, father and husband, he had to defend himself, and he became emotional and went into a dark place where he wanted to rip Joe's head off. When he got home, his wife Wendy told him he cannot lose his cool and that he must remain focused. Suddenly, Samoa Joe shows up. Joe pulls out a piece of paper from his jacket and says that what Styles is saying is just not true. He has nothing left to say to Styles, but he holds a letter from a fan and says that he thought Styles should hear it. The letter calls Joe's response to Styles "disgusting" and that it made the writer physically ill because what Joe says is true. The writer goes on to say that Styles never wanted children and probably never wanted a wife, either. The letter then says that Styles is great at being a champion because Styles will do anything to stay away form his family. The writer then hopes Joe wins so that Styles loses what is important to him, as they lost him a long ago. The writer of the letter is Wendy Styles.
