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 at The Rascalz (Trey Miguel and Zachary Wentz) vs. Subculture (Mark Andrews and "Flash" Morgan Webster) for the TNA World Tag Team Championships at Emergence 2023.
Gia Miller interviews Steve Maclin for Around the Ring. Topics include the Rhode Island FC and lobster rolls.
We look back on Joe Hendry vs. Mustafa Ali from last night's show.
Xia Brookside and Lei Ying Lee beat Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley and Jazmyn Nyx).
John Cena heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Cena says that he and the fans have come a long way and that WWE was afraid to come back to Montreal, Quebec, Canada because they thought the fans would hijack the show, but he was never afraid of that, as the audience is the show. Cena says that he can understand why, as he can definitely feel the energy of the fans in Montreal. He admits that the fans in Montreal can be unpredictable, he can still lean into the fans and enjoy every single second. He then states that nothing lasts forever, and the fans chant "Thank you, Cena!" before Cena says he has shared many valuable moments in the ring and thanks the fans. Cena says that he has eleven more shows after tonight, and every night he gets more and more afraid that whatever he does will never be enough and that he will let the fans down. Cena also fears that the fans will forget about him when he is gone and the WWE moves on. He then addresses Brock Lesnar, saying he would never choose Lesnar as an opponent in any universe, but he has also never backed down from Lesnar in any universe. Cena says Brock Lesnar just gave himself "a John Cena problem," as does anyone else who wants to challenge him, and he is down and ready for a fight. If Lesnar wants some, he can come get some, and if anyone else wants to face him, he plans to go down guns blazing. He says that the last time is now, and "If you want some, come get some!" Suddenly, Logan Paul shows up and says that Cena is making him sick now that he is face again and that he does not even know Cena anymore. Cena tells Logan that he just made the biggest mistake of his like, but Logan says they will see about that. He says that nobody knows who Cena is while he has been real since day one, and that Cena has stated that he can do WWE better than any professional wrestler. Logan says that even includes Cena, to which Cena admits to before calling Logan "the biggest dumbass [he has] ever seen in [his] life." Logan calls Cena a liar and just says whatever he is told to say, then says he is the show, not the fans. He states that Cena is now a charity case and is giving out matches, then entertains wrestling Cena. Cena loves the idea, but Logan wants to do this at Clash in Paris, saying Montreal does not deserve this. As Logan continues to speak, Cena is attacked from behind by Drew McIntyre. McIntyre and Logan perform a sarcastic "Thank you, Cena" before they go back on the attack and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes shows up to even the numbers and help Cena clean house. Cena then accepts Logan's challenge for Clash in Paris, then notes that Logan and McIntyre want to fight and that it seems like he might have a partner in Cody. He then challenges the both of them to a tag team match tonight.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley). Alex Shelley says SummerSlam may have been brutal, but they have a legacy of getting knocked down and getting backed up. Chris Sabin says they may not be champion, but they have what it takes, and they will climb their way back to the top again.
JC Mateo and Talla Tonga beat The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley). After the match, Solo Sikoa says that his group is what greatness looks like and that they are soon to be the WWE Tag Team Champions while he is the most dominant WWE United States Champion. He says it is a shame that he is ready for a fight, yet there is nobody in the back to fight, and that he and his group are leaving to go celebrate. General Manager Nick Aldis suddenly shows up and says he has a special guest in the house tonight who is also ready for a fight and ready to go right now: Sami Zayn.
Sami Zayn beats Solo Sikoa after fending off Tanga Loa, JC Mateo and Talla Tonga before ducking the Samoan Spike and winning with a schoolkid pin.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair meets with Alexa Bliss, saying that she has something for her ahead of her birthday tomorrow and that she will see what it is in the ring.
It is announced that WWE and ESPN have agreed to a deal which will bring WWE's premium live events to ESPN's direct-to-consumer streaming service at the beginning of 2026.
We hear from The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis, Erick Rowan, Nikki Cross). Uncle Howdy says they will never lead one astray and that when they speak, they will always speak truth. He says this is what they always sought out to do. Joe Gacy says they have shown that power is nothing more than a harmless illusion. Dexter Lumis says they woke the tag team division up to the reality they have hidden, and Nikki Cross says this is not about fear. Erick Rowan says it is about something bigger, and that there are more lessons to be learned, and that the story has just begun.
Backstage, #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) and Candice LeRae confronts The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) and B-Fab for losing the WWE Tag Team Champions and putting them in the mess they are in. Candice LeRae is not happy about the bruise on her leg. General Manager Nick Aldis walks in on the argument and says he will get control of the tag team division if it is the last thing he does, starting with DIY and The Street Profits in a match next week.
Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss make their way to the ring. Charlotte tells Alexa that she is sharing the spotlight with her in commemoration of two celebrations. The birthday cake with Charlotte Flair's name over Alexa's is noted, then Charlotte tells Alexa she has a gift for her. Alexa has her misgivings about the pink gift box, and Charlotte opens the box to reveal a brand new Lilly doll with a "We're Not Friends" T-shirt on. She also reveals that "Charlie" - the Charlotte doll that Alexa gave her four years ago - is in the box. Alexa is amazed, but Charlotte says that is not enough and allows Alexa to hug her, which Alexa is about to do after some hesitation before Chelsea Green and her Secret Hervice arrive. Chelsea Green makes fun of Montreal, Quebec, Canada for not seeing champions often before mocking the Lily and Charlie dolls and stating that she and her homecoming should be celebrated. Charlotte then says she has one more gift for Alexa: kicking Chelsea Green's ass tonight. Chelsea tries to get out of it, but General Manager Nick Aldis shows up with a brand new referee, whose first assignment will be Chelsea Green vs. Charlotte Flair right now.
Backstage, Carmelo Hayes runs into The Miz as he tries to meet with General Manager Nick Aldis. Carmelo is not happy that The Miz left him high and dry and that he is going for a United States title shot. The Miz says that he has gotten with Nick Aldis and that they will have a tag team match next week to remind everyone of who they are, which Carmelo approves of. Aldis shows up after Carmelo leaves, revealing that he never made the tag team match official and that he is about to talk to Aldis about it.
Charlotte Flair beats Chelsea Green by submission with the Figure Eight after Chelsea calls for the birthday cake and goes for an Un-Pretty-Her into the cake only for Charlotte to reverse the move with one of her own, send Chelsea into the cake, and make her submit with the Figure Eight. After the match, Alexa and Charlotte celebrate with the birthday cake.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Tiffany Stratton. Tiffany says she wants to keep defending the WWE Women's Championship like she always was. Jade Cargill shows up and says that next time, the story will be different, but Tiffany says she will stay WWE Women's Champion. Giulia and Kiana James show up after Cathy Kelley and Tiffany leave, and Kiana hands Cargill a business card in case she wants to face Giulia for the Women's United States Championship. Michin shows up, and Jade Cargill hands her the business card.
We hear from Aleister Black, who says that he is allowed to use violence to stop a greater violence from happening, and that conviction is the true difference between good and evil. He says that he is more of "an eye for any other limb" kind of guy and that Damian Priest is now at home nursing a hairline fracture in his jaw. He says that when someone pushes Priest, he pushed back, but when he gets pushed, he pushes the other person off the cliff and watches the other person fall to their death, and if that makes him evil, so be it.
Backstage, Ron Killings runs into John Cena. They both do the "mirror man" thing and says the real Cena is back, and if the real Cena is back, then so is R-Truth. Cena explains himself while turning the tables on R-Truth at the same time, then says it is good to have R-Truth back.
John Cena and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beat Logan Paul and Drew McIntyre by disqualification after Logan hits Cena with a low blow in full view of the referee. After the match, Cena and Logan brawl their way to the back, while Cody continues to fight McIntyre on the outside. McIntyre blasts Cody with the Undisputed WWE Championship to the face, then looks at the title before Claymore Kicking Cody through the bottom of the announce desk.
Backstage, Gia Miller interviews Jonathan Gresham. Gresham does not have his mask on this time, then says he has been gone for a while because he has not been feeling well. After Gresham says that he is here and ready to go, KUSHIDA shows up. Gresham offers his hand, but KUSHIDA is wary. Gresham does not seem to know what is going on.
Bound For Glory is coming October 26th!
In a digital exclusive from earlier this week, Director of Authority Santino Marella asks "Speedball" Mike Bailey about the Ultimate X Match at Emergence. Speedball hopes to carry on the match's history in the match. When Santino announces three qualifying matches for the Ultimate X Match, Speedball issues an open challenge to anyone willing to step up to him for the X Division Championship and places himself in one of the three matches, stating that if he cannot win, he does not deserve to be champion.
"Speedball" Mike Bailey beats Jake Something and Trent Seven in an Ultimate X Match qualifier to keep the TNA X Division Championship. (Had Speedball lost the match, he would have been forced to vacate it.)
Backstage, we hear from Tasha Steelz, who says that she is on the climb back to the top to earn the Knockouts World Championship, and if anyone stands in her way, they will get dropped like Gisele Shaw, who soon shows up. Gisele mentions Tasha stealing two victories from her, and when things are about to get physical, Director of Authority Santino Marella steps in and makes a third match with two more referee to ensure there are no shenanigans. Tasha has no problem with this and beating Gisele again.
Backstage, Director of Authority Santino Marella is met by Hammerstone, who says that he has taken an interest in the X Division, which he finds "cute" and "amusing," and says it is time to shake things up, as he wants in. Director of Authority Santino Marella puts Hammerstone in one of the qualifying matches and leaves, then Eric Young shows up and tells Hammerstone that they have unfinished business.
KUSHIDA beats Jonathan Gresham with the Hoverboard Lock.
We hear from ABC ("Inevitable" Ace Austin and Chris Bey). Ace Austin says that they are now three-time tag team champions, and Chris Bey wants to know who is next to step up. Suddenly, "Speedball" Ace Austin shows up to congratulate them on becoming champions and thanks them for making him the warrior that he is, and says it would be an honor for them to take part in the Ultimate X Match qualifiers. ABC says they will think about it, and after Speedball leaves, Ace Austin says they could be double champions.
We hear from Steph de Lander, who has organized a jacuzzi date for PCO as she is currently in a jacuzzi. She calls PCO only to be sent straight to voicemail.
Rosemary answers Jordynne Grace's open challenge for the TNA Knockouts World Championship.
Rosemary vs. Jordynne Grace ends in a no-contest after Ash by Elegance and personal concierge George Iceman show up so that Iceman can distract the referee so that Ash can hit both Rosemary and Jordynne with a pink shinai. After the match, Ash and Iceman flee as soon as Jordynne Grace angrily gets up.
It is announced that Bound For Glory 2024 will take place in Detroit, Michigan at the Wayne State University Fieldhouse on October 26th.
"The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander heads to the ring. Alexander says that the fans changed, not him, and that TNA used to signify the best professional wrestlers in the world, yet the fans choose to believe in someone like Joe Hendry. Alexander then says that Hendry is too busy right now and that he is a meme, not a professional wrestler, and that Hendry cannot lace his boots on his best day. Alexander then says that he earned the title of "The Heart and Soul of TNA" and was the standard of TNA, even becoming the longest-reigning TNA World Champion in the process, and that he is the best wrestler in the world today. He then says he is focused on only one thing - getting back the TNA World Championship - and calls out "The Wanted Man" Nic Nemeth after Nemeth has stated that he wants to be a fighting champion. Alexander then says that he is face of TNA, not Nemeth, and that Nemeth will go back to being called what he was called in WWE - a transitional champion - when he takes the title. Nic Nemeth heads to the ring and hits Alexander in the throat with a microphone followed by a Superkick, then tells Alexander he has his World title match next match and that he will end him.
Backstage, Director of Authority Santino Marella makes "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander vs. "The Wanted Man" Nic Nemeth for the TNA World Championship official for next week. Frankie Kazarian shows up, saying Alexander should not be placated and that he should be number one contender, and tells Santino to do the right thing. When Marella tells him it is not happening, Kazarian says he will become number one contender one way or another.
Zachary Wentz beats KC Navarro and Dante Chen in an Ultimate X Match qualifier.
Steph de Lander is confronted by Matt Cardona during her honeymoon, and PCO is held down by Matt Cardona and two other men before Cardona tells PCO not to mess with "his property" and stomps on his head.
Before the next match, Joe Hendry says it was not so long ago that he and Wolfgang were making names for themselves in Scotland, and it was not so long ago that he appeared in NXT and made the fans believe. He also says it was not so long ago that Joe Coffey smashed him in the back with a guitar while Mark Coffey and Wolfgang held him down, then says Joe and Mark are not here tonight and it is just the two of them. Joe Hendry then goes to town on Wolfgang before the bell rings.
Joe Hendry beats Wolfgang.
Backstage, security have to break up a brawl between Mike Santana and The System (Eddie Edwards, Brian Myers, Moose) and JDC.
Here are the must-see moments from tonight's show!
"The Natural" Dustin Rhodes and Sammy Guevara beat The Dark Order (Alex Reynolds and John Silver).
Backstage, Athena has a private meeting with Billie Starkz. Athena says she is tired of being angry and used to her disappointment, and that she has revoked her MIT diploma and is back to being a minion-in-training once again. Red Velvet and Queen Aminata show up and confront Athena for costing Aminata the World Women's Championship, and Aminata has announced that she and Velvet have gotten a tag team match against Athena and Billie. Athena blames Billie for the tag team match even happening.
Taya Valkyrie beats Hyan.
Backstage, Mellisa Santos interviews Maria Kanellis-Bennett and Griff Garrison regarding Cole Karter when Spanish Announce Project shows up, with Serpentico wanting his mask back and Angelico wanting one more match for the mask. Griff and Maria accept on the provision that Angelico is banned from ringside and that Serpentico must unmask for the rest of his "sad" career if he loses. Griff and Maria leave, and Serpentico accepts the stipulation.
Undisputed Kingdom (Matt Taven and Mike Bennett) retains the ROH World Tag Team Championships against The Infantry ("The Captain" Shawn Dean and "Bad News and Tattoos" Carlie Bravo) following a low blow by Bennett to Shawn Dean as Taven has the referee distracted.
Rachael Ellering beats Brooke Havok.
We hear from Shane Taylor and "Taiga Style" Lee Moriarty. Morairty says that what is going on between Shane Taylor Promotions (Taylor, Moriarty, Anthony Ogogo) and the team of Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin) and Action Andretti has been going on too long for his liking, to which Shane Taylor agrees. Moriarty then decides to raise the stakes and make his next match against Action Andretti for the ROH Pure Championship. Taylor says they come from a culture that Top Flight and Andretti cannot even fathom, saying that Andretti has beaten "The Learning Tree" Chris Jericho but has done nothing sense and that Top Flight has so much talent but act like they do not want to be the best. He says that they are doing this to survive and feed their family while Top Flight and Action Andretti are out there playing, and they should want to be the best. He then says that Action Andretti will have to bring his best against Moriarty for the Pure title, and that is time to watch your step and protect your neck.
The Outrunners (Truth Magnum and Turbo Floyd) beat Stephen Wolf and Barrett Brown.
Robbie Eagles beats Darian Bengston.
Before the next match, "Smart" Mark Sterling calls The Conglomeration (Mark Briscoe, Kyle O'Reilly, Orange Cassidy) recently "cheating and stealing victory" from The Premier Athletes (Tony Nese, Ariya Daivari, Josh Woods) "a travesty," then says he is working to have the Texas Athletic Commission to keep The Premier Athletes undefeated in 2024, he has worked hard to keep The Conglomeration barred from ringside for this match while Tony Nese faces "their worst offender" with no shenanigans, and that the fans will see what it looks like when a premier athlete goes to work.
Tomohiro Ishii beats Tony Nese after "Smart" Mark Sterling and Ariya Daivari's interference attempts backfire.
Backstage, Melissa Santos interviews Rachael Ellering. Rachael says it hard to be sitting at home injured, and that she has sat back and reflected, and it seems to have worked as of late. She then says she is not just here to survive, but to thrive, then Harley Cameron shows up, introduces herself and tells Rachael to lose the whole tomboy gimmick before leaving.
Johnny TV beats Fuego del Sol after countering the Tornado DDT.
Athena and Billie Starkz beat Queen Aminata and Red Velvet. During the match, Lexy Nair gives Athena a microphone to use as a weapon, but Athena and Aminata fight over it. This allows Billie to grab a championship belt and use it as a weapon against Red Velvet as the ref is distracted, and this gets Athena and Billie the win.
In backstage footage from last night's Raw, Rhea Ripley tells Dragon Lee that Dominik Mysterio is the hottest North American Champion of all time. Dominik says that beating Dragon Lee will be as hilarious as beating his "deadbeat" dad. Meanwhile, Rey Mysterio tells Dragon Lee to show Dominik some humility as he tells Dragon Lee that he will be the next North American Champion.
Mustafa Ali beats Axiom after grabbing Axiom by the bottom of his mask and sending him tumbling to the outside. During the match, Scrypts watches from the stage, and Bronco Nima and Lucien Price soon join him before the three of them ultimately head to the back.
Backstage, it is revealed that multiple Superstars have been attacked by Schism (Joe Gacy, Rip Fowler, Jagger Reid, Ava). Joe Gacy tells The Creed Brothers (Julius and Brutus Creed) that they will find them even if they have to turn NXT upside-down.
Blair Davenport beats Kelani Jordan. After the match, Dana Brooke chases Blair Davenport around the ring with a leather belt, and almost hits Kelani Jordan when Kelani tries to get her to stop.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Von Wagner and Mr. Stone. Von Wagner says people have talked trash about him his entire life, and says a badass like Bron Breakker has to be put in his place and that Bron Breakker will be tabled.
Tyler Bate beats Noam Dar to win Noam Dar's NXT Heritage Cup. Tyler Bate scores the first fall with 2:18 (two minutes, eighteen seconds) left in Round 2 with the Tyler Driver '97. Noam Dar scores the second fall with :42 (forty-two seconds) left in Round 4 with the knee bar and keeps the hold applied for a few seconds before Round 5. Tyler scores the third and deciding fall with :48 (forty-eight seconds) left in Round 5 after Noam Dar rolls him up only for Tyler to counter with a roll-up of his own.
Backstage, Tank Ledger and Hank Walker meet. Tank says that their new name is "Smash Mouth," then Schism show up and attack them as they look for The Creed Brothers.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Ilja Dragunov, who says that he is going to the ring and expecting Trick Williams to meet him there. He says there is no prediction as to what will happen next, and he hopes that Trick Williams loves pain.
Backstage, Dijak meets with Carmelo Hayes and tells him he should be worried about himself and not Trick Williams. Wes Les shows up wanting to confront Carmelo, and when Dijak tells Wes he is not part of the title picture, Wes says he will remind Dijak of who he is. When Wes Lee turns around to find out Carmelo is gone, he is attacked from behind by Dijak.
Ilja Dragunov heads to the ring and calls out Trick Williams, telling him it is time for him to take responsibility for his actions. Trick shows up and says he knows Dragunov is not backing down and neither will he, then says he wants to talk first. Dragunov says Trick is brave for making demands and tells him not to take one step further, but Trick says that when they last fought, it was bad for the both of them and that Dragunov proved he was "The Mad Dragon." After Trick says that he has a proposition for him, Dragunov blames Trick for him not having the NXT Championship, but Trick reminds Dragunov that he said that "collateral damage happens in the middle of a fight" and that Dragunov ran into the NXT title and that he did not hit him.Trick then proposes that they both have a match in which it can be known that he can back up his words and prove that he is no sidekick and instead one of the best, and Dragunov asks Trick if he knows what he is asking for, as his eyes burn red when anger and wrath consumes him.Dragunov says that this time, there is nothing that will hold him back, and he will break him. Trick calls Dragunov that he is "one of one" and one of the best, then says that he will bring his A-game and is hoping Dragunov will bring his. Dragunov says he will honor his request, then tells Trick his career will die.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Drew Gulak and Charlie Dempsey. Gulak calls Hank Walker and Tank Ledger "soft," and Dempsey says everyone claims to be a tough guy only when they are healthy, then Damon Kemp shows up. As Drew tells Damon there are one of him and two of them, Josh Briggs and Brooks Jensen challenge Gulak and Dempsey to a match, which they accept.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Bron Breakker, who says "Gimme a break," after being told that Von Wagner has said that he will put him through a table.
Backstage, Rey Mysterio talks with Roxanne Perez when he spots Thea Hail. Rey says he knows what it is like to be the ultimate underdog and that he can see her heart. He says she will be champion one day if she is patient and believes in herself. When Thea Hail asks Rey if he still loves Dominik, Rey says that while he does not like what Dominik has become, he is his son and he will always love him, and that one day, he will understand who his real family really is. When Andre Chase and Duke Hudson shows up, Thea tells Chase that unlike him, Rey would not throw in the towel.
Bron Breakker beats Von Wagner. After the match, Bron Breakker grabs Mr. Stone and threatens to press slam him, but Von Wagner hits Breakker with a big boot followed by a powerbomb through the announce table.
We hear from Eddy Thorpe, who says that he likes to isolate himself with nature as he can hear his own thoughts. Eddy says he is furious after being decimated twice by Dijak, and says it is his fault that he lost. He says he must take responsibilty, re-focus and re-adjust, and he must forward without fear in order to beat Dijak.
Backstage, Rhea Ripley and Dominik Mysterio are met by Lyra Valkyria, who says that she did what Rhea wanted and that she knows Rhea manipulates people while doing whatever it takes for. She then tells Rhea to practice what she preaches and let Dominik do his thing, then asks if "Mami" will have to come to Dominik's rescue again.
Backstage, Schism (Joe Gacy, Rip Fowler, Jagger Reid, Ava) confront Tony D'Angelo and Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo wanting to know The Creed Brothers (Julius and Brutus Creed) are. D'Angelo and Stacks pull out their crowbars, then Jagger Reid shows interest in the NXT tag titles before Schism leaves.
Drew Gulak and Charlie Dempsey beat Josh Briggs and Brooks Jensen after Damon Kemp shows up and attacks Jensen on the outside behind the referee's back. During the match, Myles Borne - who helps Gulak and Dempsey into the ring before the match - is sent to the back by Gulak during the match for not bringing water.
Backstage, Dana Brooke tells Kelani Jordan that she wants the best for her and that she will show her what a killer instinct looks like when she faces Blair Davenport next week.
Kiana James beats Ivy Nile. During the match, Schism (Joe Gacy, Rip Fowler, Jagger Reid, Ava) and its masked members all surround the ring to cheer on Ivy Nile, and this eventually distracts her and allows Kiana to get the win with the Deal Breaker. After the match, Joe Gacy demands to know where The Creed Brothers are, then Tony D'Angelo and Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo show up and strike at Schism with their crowbars.
Angel Garza and Humberto Garcia message each other, saying that something has to change, as they are embarrassing their grandfather when they should be honoring him.
Backstage, Meta-Four (Noam Dar, Oro Mensah, Lash Legend, Jakara Jackson) confronts Tyler Bate, demanding that Tyler Bate return his Heritage Cup back to Noam Dar. Nathan Frazer shows up and says Tyler can give Noam his cup back and get a shot at the real one if he admits his cup is not real. Noam reluctantly does this, then Nathan gives him a shot at the real cup as promised.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Tiffany Stratton. Tiffany says she has a lot on her mind right now, having splurged on a shopping spree for herself and not knowing what to wear before deciding to stick to pink. As for who her next opponent, she admits she has not thought that far before saying it is no one at all.
Backstage, Trick Williams says he is just getting warmed up on the subject of Ilja Dragunov. Wes lee drives up and tells him to tell Carmelo Hayes that he is coming for him, then Drew Gulak, Damon Kemp and Charlie Dempsey mock Trick for "growing a pear" only for Trick to roast them and for Myles Borne to show up late.
Before the next match, Rey Mysterio introduces Dragon Lee as the future NXT North American Champion.
Dominik Mysterio retains the NXT North American Championship against Dragon Lee. During the match, Rhea Ripley slides the North American Championship into the ring, which the referee sees, and when Dominik tries to use the title as a weapon, Rey Mysterio takes it away. Rhea then hits Dragon Lee with the Women's World Championship from behind as the referee is dealing with Rey and Dominik, and Dominik hits the Michinoku Driver to retain. After the match, Rey Mysterio confronts Rhea and Dominik, then Lyra confronts Rhea from behind. This leads to a brawl in which Rey and Lyra quickly come out on top.
Iyo Sky, Dakota Kai and Bayley head to the ring to start tonight's show. Bayley says the three of them are excited to see the fans, even though the fans are booing them, and says that while they do not want to be here, the fans need them. She says that she had to do something to salvage the Raw women's division, and says that the fans can't possibly enjoy Becky Lynch playing dress-up every week or cheering for Bianca Belair, saying Bianca would be nothing without her. Bayley says that the three of them had to make a statement by breaking Becky Lynch's shoulder and lighting a fire under the entire women's division in order to bring back what has been missing: the hunger. She says that the fans demand a women's division who is starving and hungry for more, but without her, nobody knows how to ask for her, and she says that to get better answers, to ask better questions. Bayley then asks how she found the potential of Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky and asks how mad they can be not to get opportunities, then Dakota Kai says they will show how mad they are by winning the Women's Tag Team Championship tournament. (In the midst of this, Bayley accidentally calls Dakota Kai "Dakota Sky," which ends up getting made fun of during and after the show.) Suddenly, Alexa Bliss, Asuka and Bianca Belair show up. Alexa says they are not winning the tournament, as they will eventually have to face her and Asuka, and they have more incentive to beat the hell out of them and win the tournament. Bianca says she is not done with Iyo Sky yet and is ready to finish what was started with her, then says that the three of them have no problem dealing with Bayley, Dakota and Iyo Sky right now. Bayley says she is the one calling the shots and that they should have a three-on-three match where it counts at Clash at the Castle. Bianca says "Challenge accepted." Bianca then says that while Bayley is trying to keep control, she feels like losing it. Both teams then brawl all over the ring. Officials eventually show up to restore order, even as the brawl spills out into the crowd and Alexa hits everyone with a cross body off the barricade.
Seth "Freakin'" Rollins beats Angelo Dawkins with the Pedigree after Dawkins runs into the ring steps. After the match, Rollins hits Dawkins with The Stomp, then runs away after Montez Ford slides into the ring.
Backstage, Rey and Dominik Mysterio are met by Edge, who tells them that he has their backs. He says last week was an accident and that he did not mean to hit Dominik with a Spear. When Edge asks if they're cool, Dominik says "We're cool," then shoves Edge. Rey tells Dominik he's known Edge for 20 years, but Dominik says "You've known me for 25" and walks away. Rey tells Edge he will talk to Dominik.
We get a closer look at Tommaso Ciampa, courtesy of Sonic Drive-In.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews The Miz and Tommaso Ciampa. Miz chews out Kevin Patrick for using the word "phenomenal" and says that there is nothing phenomenal about "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles helping out Logan Paul. Ciampa says that Harley Race believed in him and trained him, and dedicates his win to Harley Race. We then see a red and blue robe with the word "Race" hung on a wall. Ciampa says that Harley Race will look down on him and that tonight is his moment when Bobby Lashley looks into his eyes and feels his sacrifice before realizing that he has already lost.
Kevin Owens vs. Ezekiel ends as soon as it begins with Owens powerbomb Ezekiel on the ring apron, injuring Ezekiel. The referee calls for medical assistance, and Ezekiel is put on a stretcher as Kevin Owens laughs.
We see footage of Elias being taken out on a stretcher.
Before the next match, Finn Balor says that Rey and Dominik Mysterio cannot get on the same page, then says that The Judgment Day (Finn Balor, Damian Priest, Rhea Ripley) is not afraid because fear is not real and only a figment of one's imagination. He then says that danger is real and that Rey will find out that he is danger. Damian Priest then tells Edge that if he wanted to, he would lay Edge out, but in two weeks, they will be in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and he will challenge him to a one-on-one match then. He then says they can finish things if Edge still "has a set," and when that happens, The Judgment Day will end him.
Backstage, Rey Mysterio meets with Edge and says he cannot find Dominik Mysterio anywhere. Edge says his offer still stands, and Rey says that he knows Dominik and that Dominik will eventually come around.
Finn Balor beats Rey Mysterio. During the match, Edge shows up and brawls with Damian Priest through the crowd. Later in the match, Rhea Ripley shows up with a beaten-down Dominik Mysterio. This allows Finn Balor to hit a distracted Rey with the 1916 followed by the Coup de Grace for the win.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Dana Brooke and Tamina. Dana says it is an opportunity to become a double champion, and with all the competition, she needs a partner who will get her there. She considers Tamina her biggest competition, and that is why she is her partner. Bayley, Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky show up and Bayley says they are coming for titles that suit them and that the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships suit them because she was among the first to hold them, even though they wouldn't know about that. Tamina says she does and tells Bayley to keep running her mouth, as she has no problem taking them out of the tournament. Dakota says she will see them in the ring, and Iyo Sky says she does not like Tamina.
Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai beat Dana Brooke and Tamina to advance in the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship Tournament.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Kevin Owens, who threatens to drop him harder than he did Ezekiel if he sneaks up on him again, then says he knows who he is - unlike Ezekiel - and that he is Kevin Owens. Kevin Owens says there are more eyes on the show than ever and that Raw is "The Kevin Owens Show." (As this goes on, there is a crashed car in the background, and Nikki A.S.H. and Doudrop are near it along with two other people who work backstage.)
Dominik Mysterio is checked on in the trainer's room.
Bobby Lashley retains the WWE United States Championship against Tommaso Ciampa with the Hurt Lock. During the match, The Miz puts Ciampa's foot on the rope, and as Lashley stares down The Miz, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles chases The Miz through the crowd and through the ring. Despite Ciampa sending Lashley into an exposed turnbuckle, Lashley is able to win with the Hurt Lock.
In backstage footage from moments ago, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and The Miz brawl, and officials have to restore order. It is then announced that Styles vs. Miz in a no-disqualification match is official for later tonight.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Seth "Freakin'" Rollins. Upon hearing that Matt Riddle has an exclusive interview next week and asked about what Riddle has to say about him, Rollins says he is done with Riddle and that Riddle will just use a lot of interjections and keep mentioning Randy Orton. Rollins says that he is the gatekeeper of the industry and that anyone who is good will have to get through him, and says that as good as he is at wrestling, Riddle is even better at flushing his reputation down the toilet and to "ask Dana White." He then says that Riddle will retire and hang up the flip flops for good, and if he does not, he will have to "Cody Rhodes his ass out the door." Rollins then says that if Riddle has something to say next week, then so does he.
We get a closer look at Alpha Academy (Chad Gable and Otis), courtesy of Progressive.
Dolph Ziggler beats Chad Gable despite Chad Gable weaking his leg throughout the match.
Backstage, we hear from Nikki A.S.H. and Doudrop. Nikki says they will be one step closer to the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships next week, and Doudrop says they will crush Alexa Bliss and Asuka's dreams in the process. We then hear from Alexa Bliss and Asuka. Alexa says that Nikki and Doudrop will manifest their dreams, not crush them. Bayley, Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky show up and mock them, then security runs by. They leave and pass by "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, who is headed to the ring. (As Alexa Bliss and Asuka are cutting their promo, the crashed car from earlier is being towed.)
Despite interference from Tommaso Ciampa, who ends up being punched off the ring apron and falling through a table, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles beats The Miz in a no-disqualification match. After the match, someone is seen being arrested by three police officers in the front row. The man is quickly identified on Twitter and on WWE's Instagram as Dexter Lumis.
This week on Raw Talk: Edge! Bayley, Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai! Omos and MVP!
Skye Blue and Ruby Soho beat Nikki Victory and Megan Meyers.
Parker Boudreaux beats Casey Carrington.
Athena beats Queen Aminata.
The Baddies (Kiera Hogan and Leila Grey) beat Freya States and Alice Crowley.
The Dark Order (John Silver and Alex Reynolds) beat T.U.G. Cooper and Lord Crewe.
The Lucha Brothers (Penta Oscuro and Rey Fenix) beat The Wingmen ("Pretty" Peter Avalon and "The Hollywood Hunk" Ryan Nemeth). After the match, La Faccion Ingobernable (Andrade el Idolo, Rush, Jose the Assistant) show up and tease getting in the ring only to walk away.
This week's episode is a "best-of" episode focusing on Shane Taylor. Highlights and matches include:
The Rev. Ron Hunt introducing us to the show after a video package of Shane Taylor
Bandido vs. Shane Taylor for the ROH World Television Championship at Best In The World 2019
Eli Isom vs. Shane Taylor for the ROH World Television Championship at Mass Hysteria 2019
"Hot Sauce" Tracy Williams vs. "The Mercenary" Flip Gordon vs. Dragon Lee vs. Shane Taylor for the ROH World Television Championship at Death Before Dishonor 2019
We hear from Shane Taylor, who says he would rather fight like a man than die like a coward, and to always change the game
Antonio Cueto is on the telephone in his office. He says that everything is running smoothly, and that there will be another sacrifice to the gods tonight. He then hangs up the telephone, then notices Mariposa walk into his office. Mariposa says that he had heard stories about Antonio through her father, but they did not seem to do him justice. She never expected him to be so handsome in person and that she has fantasized about having a relationship with a Cueto, mostly because it was forbidden. Instead of being here to seduce him over, she is here for a Gift of the Gods title match. Antonio tells Mariposa she doesn't deserve it, but Mariposa pulls out $20,000 in $100 bills, says her family has a lot of money and that they always get what they want. Antonio takes the money, says it is the ultimate aphrodisiac, and says that he could not say no to someone as beautiful and dangerous as Mariposa, who says that she never takes no for an answer before leaving. Antonio then chugs down a bottle of beer.
Before the next match, Antonio Cueto says that he is glad that Paul London volunteered for the next match, then says that only one member of The Rabbit Tribe (Paul London, Saltador, Mala Suerte) will be allowed to compete in the next match. London picks Mala Suerte without hesitation, telling Mala Suerte that by failing the tribe, he has failed the White Rabbit, but now, he gets to prove his worth by having a little tussle. Antonio then says that Mala Suerte has been chosen to become the next sacrifice to the gods, meaning that he is the one to face "The Monster" Matanza Cueto.
"The Monster" Matanza Cueto beats Mala Suerte, then the lights flash to reveal that Mala Suerte has disappeared. During the match, stock cartoon sound effects play during Mala Suerte's attacks.
Joey Ryan and Jack Evans beat XO Lishus and Ivelisse by submission with a modified locoplata from Jack Evans to XO Lishus. After the match, Jack Evans refuses to let go of the hold, and Ivelisse has to take the boots to Jack Evans to break the hold. Joey Ryan has to get out of the ring to avoid Ivelisse's wrath, and Jack Evans says that this isn't over until XO Lishus is dead.
It is announced that El Dragon Azteca Jr. will be defending the Lucha Underground Gift of the Gods Championship against Mariposa after the commercial break.
El Dragon Azteca Jr. retains the Lucha Underground Gift of the Gods Championship against Mariposa after crossing Mariposa's legs during a roll-up.
Before the beginning of the next match, it is announced on commentary that Vibora is absent, but it is not brought up by commentary that he is dead. Kobra Moon then says that what Johnny Mundo did to Vibora was cold blooded. She likes that, and says that this is why Mundo belongs in her tribe. She then says that Mundo thought he had an advantage, but she has many subjects, and tonight, he will meet his newest one: "Jeremiah Snake," whom she has brought back from death with venom and has since been reborn. Jeremiah Crane comes out in a mask in a zombie-like state, then acts like his usual self before doing Kobra's bidding. The Worldwide Underground (Johnny Mundo, Taya Valkyrie, "The Darewolf" PJ Black, Ricky Mundo) shows up, and Johnny Mundo says he likes the last minute addition before saying he was thinking of the same time. He tells Ricky Mundo that this is one job he will not do, and says he needs someone he can trust before telling Ricky to go play with Rosa in the locker room. Mundo says he needs someone he can count on, and since Jack Evans is afraid of snakes, he needs someone who has what it takes to cut off the Reptile Tribe's heads like they did Vibora. He then introduces their new partner: Aerostar, who shows up wearing the same yellow headband as the rest of The Worldwide Underground.
The Worldwide Underground (Johnny Mundo, Taya Valkyrie, "The Darewolf" PJ Black) and Aerostar beat The Reptile Tribe (Kobra Moon, Daga, Drago and Jeremiah Snake). As per pre-match stipulations, Kobra Moon has to grant Johnny Mundo one wish, and Johnny Mundo tells Kobra Moon she owes him a wish. Mundo uses his wish for Aerostar, telling Kobra Moon that he wishes for Drago to be freed. Mundo leads a crowd chant of "Set him free!" and Kobra Moon has no choice but to let Drago free. Taya is crying because Mundo made a wish for Aerostar instead of her, and after Aerostar frees Drago from his iron collar, Taya calls Mundo an idiot for helping Aerostar and says that everything they did was for nothing. Mundo says that Kobra Moon could not grant his wish, because only Taya could do that. PJ Black then pulls out a small black ring box from his trunks and hands it to Johnny Mundo, and Taya cannot believe what she is seeing as Johnny Mundo does his best "Macho Man" Randy Savage as he asks Taya to marry her. The crowd chants "Si!" as Taya cries "Yes!" Mundo says "Ooh yeah!," then Savage's music plays before Mundo places the engagement ring on Taya's finger before they both kiss.
In the locker room, Ricky Mundo tells Rosa that he has a wish, too: that Taya and Johnny are together until death do them part. Rosa laughs along with Ricky Mundo as they both look into a mirror, and the show ends.
We see a vignette for Keith Lee, who is coming to NXT tonight.
The Undisputed Era (Adam Cole, Bobby Fish, Kyle O'Reilly, Roderick Strong) brings out a knocked-out Ricochet before the next match can begin. Adam Cole says he is not a coward and does not back down from anybody, and that Ricochet is battered and bruised while he stands tall as the one and only North American Champion. Cole then says that when he beats Ricochet at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn IV, that will still be undisputed.
Backstage, Vanessa Borne says her gameplan against Taynara Conti is to win, and says she does not want to deprive the fans of "the vision." Tonight, she and the world will both get what they deserve, and she will take the final spot in the Mae Young Classic.
Kassius Ohno beats Adrian Jauode.
We see footage of Ethan Carter III's and Velveteen Dream's poolside summit. The two of them take a walk, and The Dream teases tosses EC3 into the pool. EC3, having come to The Dream's house wanting to fight, says that this match is worth waiting for. He proposes that they go at it at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn IV instead. The Dream thinks that EC3 is disrespecting him, and as he says that he respects him, drops his sunglasses. EC3 goes to pick them up, and The Dream charges at him. EC3 sees it coming and throws him into the shallow end of the pool before leaving. The Dream screams for help, but EC3 tells him it's only three feet deep.
Next week: Velveteen Dream live!
Keith Lee beats Marcel Barthal.
We hear from Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford), who host another episode of Street Talk in front of an ATM. Marcel Ford says that The Mighty (Shane Thorne and Nick Miller) think that Street Profits are jokes. Street Profits make fun of The Mighty's new name and says they want none of Street Profits. Street Profits and The Mighty will face off next week.
Taynara Conti beats Vanessa Borne to qualify for the Mae Young Classic.
Next week: Kairi Sane vs. Aliyah! Tyler Bate vs. Roderick Strong!
Two-time UFC Heavyweight Champion Cain Velasquez is seen in the crowd.
Johnny Gargano vs. Aleister Black ends with Tommaso Ciampa showing up, tossing Gargano out of the ring and attacking Aleister, setting in motion a brawl between all three men that referees have to rush into the ring to break up. Suddenly, General Manager William Regal shows up and says this is getting out of control and that all three men are hell-bent on destroying each other. He has no intent to control or prevent this; instead, he will let it happen, as the NXT Championship will now be decided in a Triple Threat Match between Gargano, Aleister and Ciampa at NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn IV.
"The Premiere Athlete" Tony Nese beats Cedric Alexander after grabbing the tights during a series of roll-up attempts. After the match, Nese says everyone noticed the difference between a great athlete and a premiere athlete. Nese gives Cedric credit for taking care of his body better "than all of these schlubs," but as long as he is around, Cedric will always be second-best.
Dasha Fuentes interviews The Brian Kendrick. Last week proved his point that "Gentleman" Jack Gallagher does not have what it takes and that he always finds a way to get out of something, and that all that matters is that he won, vicious streak or not. Kendrick says he is moving on from Gallagher, but that is met with Gallagher attacking him form behind in a fit of rage.
Before the next match, Noam Dar says he recognizes his opponent as Mark Thomas, a former WWE jobber from the 1990s whom he has watched wrestle since he was a boy. He sarcastically wishes him the best at becoming a WWE Superstar, which he says he himself has already done at the age of 24. Noam Dar goes on to mock his age, saying that Thomas' boots are probably older than him and that he has done more at the age of 24 than Thomas has done in his entire career.
Noam Dar beats Mark Thomas (who is played by independent wrestler James Steele aka James Liberty).
Corey Graves interviews Akira Tozawa in the ring. Before the interviews can even get started, however, Neville shows up. He wants to know what Corey Graves is doing to his show by interviewing Tozawa, and that he is the one who should be interviewed right now. He thinks Corey is trying to hype the match, but he says he is the hype as well as 205 Live, and that he is no competition. Tozawa immediately tosses the chair he is sitting in out of the ring, throws his jacket off and out of the ring, rolls up his cuff links and says he has a question for Neville. Neville says he is here to save the WWE Universe from his pathetic attempt at English, but lets him ask it anyway. Tozawa asks Neville how he will feel when he beats him for the Cruiserweight Championship at SummerSlam. Neville laughs, then tries to attadck Neville only to be kicked in the face. Tozawa goes for a top rope senton, but Neville rolls out. As soon as Tozawa jumps off the top rope, Neville rushes back in, but Tozawa boots him off the apron.
TJP beats Rich Swann, then gloats after the match. He continues to do so as Rich Swann heads to the back, getting in his face and rubbing it in in the process. This continues backstage, when Perkins accuses Swann of being a sore loser. Swann calls TJP out on acting like he was his friend after the match. TJP says he though Swann could handle it, but Swann says he is starting to know who TJP really is.
John Cena shows up to start tonight's show. He says some people are excited, other upset, but he is as fired up as everyone else in the crowd, and that is why everyone is here, as these shows provide moments that last a lifetime. He reminds us what happened last week when he and "The King of Strong Style" Shinsuke Nakamura squared off, and that he found out quickly that Nakamura is afraid of nothing. The crowd chants for Nakamura, and Cena says he did not know why people chanted for him until he found out that he hits really hard. Cena thought he was going to punch his ticket to SummerSlam that night, then the next moment, the referee was raising Nakamura's hand and he lost. He says he does not lose a lot, but he did the only thing he could do: dust himself off and shake the hand of a man who earned the right to be champion, and out of respect, he shook his hand back. All of a sudden, Baron Corbin shows up - with a new entrance theme - and tells Cena to stop as he is sick and tired of hearing about the match and the handshake. All he knows is that last week, Cena stuck his nose in his business. He says he is Mr. Money In The Bank, and the contract he carries means he does what he wants, when he wants. He tells Cena that if he looking for someone to respect, it is him and not Nakamura, and that he is the future and has no problem making Cena the past. Cena points to a sign saying "Baron Corbin is a dumpster fire," and calls Baron Corbin a whiny, overrated dumpster fire, which causes the crowd to chant "Dumpster fire." Cena says that if Corbin wants to dance, all he has to do is get in the ring and maybe he will put him through another table. Corbin teases doing so, then asks why he would do that when he has the Money In The Bank contract, and says that with the contract, he does what he wants, when he wants. Corbin then says Cena has nothing he wants or needs, and tells him to take his respect and shove it as all he needs is the WWE Championship. After he says that Cena is not worth his time, he heads to the back only to be stopped by General Manager Daniel Bryan. D-Bry acknowledges the Toronto, Ontario, Canada crowd, then tells Corbin that he does not know if he is a dumpster fire - which Cena tells him he is - or if he is the future, as he does not have a crystal ball. He then makes the match between Corbin and Cena official for SummerSlam.
The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) beat Sami Zayn and "The Perfect Ten" Tye Dillinger with a Tequila Sunrise from Jimmy Uso to Tye Dillinger. After the match, The Usos want to know where The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Big E, Xavier Woods) are at, and promise that they will become the new SmackDown Tag Team Champions. Suddenly, The New Day show up, and Big E is wearing all red. This distracts The Usos, who are suddenly attacked from behind by Kofi and Xavier. Jimmy Uso becomes the victim of The Usos' own tactics involving steel chairs, but Jey Uso saves him and gets him down to the stage.
Renee Young interviews Randy Orton. Last week, Orton says Rusev was in the wrong place at the wrong time when he said he was not scared of anybody, and took it upon himself to give him something to be afraid of. As for his match against Jinder Mahal tonight, he says that Jinder has done everything in his power to keep him from the WWE Championship, and he has gotten away with it. Without The Singh Brothers (Samir and Sunil Singh) at ringside, Jinder won't be able to get away...period.
It's time for Fashion Peaks. Tyler Breeze talks to The Ascension (Konnor and Viktor) - who are focused on the pie on the table - about the dream that he had last week, and thinks his dreams is some sort of code. The Ascension then leave with the pie, and Breeze wonders where Fandango is. Suddenly, Fandango appears behind him with a tie around his forehead, but thankfully he is not suffering from amnesia. Fandango said he was kidnapped by aliens, and he couldn't leave immediately due to all the wardrobes they have. Thanks to the aliens, he has clairvoyance, and says the person who will walk through the door is the one that destroyed Tully the hobby horse. That person is "The Enforcer" Arn Anderson, who asks where catering is. When Tyler Breeze asks Anderson if he destroyed Tully, he says he did it, as the horse should have been named "Arn" as he was "the horse of the group." He also takes the donuts. Fandango tells Breeze their work has just begun. Breeze says they need more pies.
Before the match, we see some Internet-exclusive footage from last week, where we find out that Lana considers Tamina an inspiration and an athlete to watch and admire. She says she wants to fight like her one day, but she wants to be more charismatic, beautiful and ravishing. This leads to her challenging Charlotte this week, much to Tamina's chagrin.
Charlotte beats Lana with the Figure Eight.
Commissioner Shane McMahon shows up. He talks about last week's WWE United States Heavyweight Championship match as well as the rematch for the title at SummerSlam, for which General Manager Daniel Bryan has used his powers to make him the special guest referee. Kevin Owens is introduced first, followed by "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles. Shane has to keep both men from laying a hand on each other as they talk trash to each other and the crowd chants for both men. Shane addresses Kevin Owens' extreme apprehension about him being the special guest referee as well as his impartiality. Owens says that whatever he said was in the heat of the moment, and apologizes for his words. He says he is not worried about a McMahon screwing him out of the title as it happened once before to Bret "The Hit Man" Hart, which leads to "You screwed Bret!" Owens then says that Bret deserved it, but he does not, and that it would be terrible public relations if Shane did that to him, so he is not worried. He is worried, however, about AJ Styles, as he wonders how Shane would be impartial to AJ Styles when Styles attacked him outside of his car last March. The crowd chants "Say you're sorry!" as AJ Styles says he was not happy when Daniel Bryan made Shane the special guest referee, but he says that officiating has not been great, anyway. He says that he sees what Owens is trying to do, and that he should save his breath as stirring the pot is not working. If Shane screws him, Shane will have to pay the repercussions just like he did at WrestleMania, and tells him not to take it personally as he does not trust anybody, let alone a McMahon. Shane says he does not operate that way, but Owens says SummerSlam isn't the first time he was a special guest referee and reminds him of what he did to "Stone Cold" Steve Austin at Survivor Series 1998, and says that it is amazing what one can find on the WWE Network and tells AJ Styles he can search for footage of him screwing other people on the Network and make a collection just off of that. Shane admits he has history with both men, but guarantees that he will call the match right down the middle and will not get involved unless he absolutely has to. He tells both men not to give him a reason not to get involved. Styles decides to make it easy for everyone, and says Owens wasn't pinned last week. He proposes they get rid of Shane, not wait until SummerSlam and do this right here, right now for the WWE United States Championship. Owens says that sounds great, but he would rather win the United States title in the United States in a city that actually matters. Styles that what matters is that this is as close as he will get to the title. Both men end up getting physical, and as Shane tries to break it up, Shane accidentally eats a Pele Kick. The crowd chants "You screwed Shane!" and "Stupid idiot!" at a laughing Owens, who heads to the back.
Tonight on 205 Live: Rich Swann vs. TJP!
Backstage, Lana is in the locker room when Tamina shows up. Lana thinks Tamina is here to gloat, and tells her to get it out of her system. Tamina rubs the loss in Lana's face, and tells her that she will never wrestle like her. Lana tells Tamina she will never be as ravishing as her. Tamina reminds Lana that it was her ambition, not her in-ring abilities, that got her three back-to-back title opportunities, and she asks Lana to help her get a title opportunity of her own.
Carmella beats Naomi thanks to the help of the suddenly returning James Ellsworth, who is now back from his 30-day suspension. During the match, Natalya is seen watching the match from backstage.
Backstage, James Ellsworth and Carmella run into Natalya, who complains Ellsworth about sticking his nose where it does not belong. He tells them to keep out of her business, because she will become the next SmackDown Women's Champion. If she sees them together, she will give Carmella a chin just like Ellsworth. Ellsworth and Carmella are not affected by her threats, and casually remind her that Carmella has a Money In The Bank contract.
Renee Young interviews "The King of Strong Style" Shinsuke Nakamura. Nakamura talks about his SmackDown Live debut, saying he has always wanted to come to WWE and face the best in the world. He has been to NXT and now SmackDown Live. He says John Cena has been the measuring stick in WWE for the last decade, and says he is the guy, but he beat him. He says he cannot describe what it was like to be in the ring with him and to beat him in a match. He says facing Jinder Mahal is not only his opportunity, but his destiny. At SummerSlam, he will be WWE Champion and the Nakumara Dynasty begins.
Randy Orton beats Jinder Mahal after reversing a Khalass into an RKO. During the match, it is noticed that "The King of Strong Style" Shinsuke Nakamura is watching this match from backstage. After the match, Rusev attacks Orton just as the show is about to end.
During the pre-show, Neville says he's over his ankle injury, and that he's ready to fly higher than ever. The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley) show up, call Neville "Mighty Mouse" and tell him to leave with "the rest of [his] New Era buddies." D-Von says he and Bubba Ray have ruined every era they've been a part of. Bubba Ray tells Neville to get himself a tag team partner, and say that when they shatter his ankle again, he'll never be able to fly again.
Enzo Amore and Big Cass show up to start tonight's show. Enzo talks about the opening of last week's Raw, and tells Chris "Bon Jon" Jericho that he not only broke the Man Code for showing up with a scarf and no shirt, but that he's on a highway to hell. Jericho shows up, and tells Enzo the only reason he's still here is because Big Cass is there to get him out of trouble. Kevin Owens shows up, and Jericho says that Owens his back through hell and high water. Big Cass turns that statement into a Burt and Ernie reference, and Jericho gets upset. Cass tells him to do something about it if he doesn't like it. Owens says he used to like Big Cass, but he brought Enzo to the main roster with him, and that if it's not him who hurts Cass, it'll be Jericho, who echoes the sentiment. Big Cass then challenges the two of them to a tag match, but Jericho then challenges Enzo Amore to a match and tells him he's going to get "it."
Chris Jericho beats Enzo Amore by disqualification after Big Cass hits Jericho with a big boot in response to Kevin Owens grabbing Enzo Amore's foot from outside of the ring. After the match, Big Cass challenges Owens and Jericho to a tag match against him and Enzo at SummerSlam. Owens and Jericho accept the challenge mockingly.
Raw General Manager Mick Foley is on the phone backstage when Sasha Banks shows up. She wants her match against Charlotte at SummerSlam to be a handicap match so she can keep her eye on Dana Brooke. Mick Foley makes an interesting compromise: a match with Dana Brooke tonight. If Sasha loses, she gets her handicap match. If Sasha wins, however, Dana Brooke will be banned from ringside at SummerSlam.
When interviewed by Byron Saxton backstage, Jorel Nelson is at a loss for words when asked what inspired him to get into this match.
Braun Strowman destroys Jorel Nelson.
Raw General Manager Mick Foley meets Puff Daddy backstage. Puff Daddy gives Mick Foley backstage tickets for his Columbus, Ohio concert for his entire family. Puff Daddy also meets Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods of The New Day, and even gets a taste of some Booty-O's before asking about Big E's nuts.
Darren Young beats Titus O'Neil after grabbing the tights.
Seth Rollins shows up. He says that the new era is upon us and has even been a bit of a learning point. Case in point: his SummerSlam opponent, Finn Balor, whom he admits he has learned a few new things about. After a recap of what Finn Balor did to him last week, Seth Rollins says he is no normal man. Seth says that "Finn Balor" is a made-up name meaning "Demon King," and calls it akin to calling himself "Rambo Apocalypse," then says he wants to know who Finn Balor really is. He calls Finn one of the most disrespectful, arrogant people he's ever encountered, especially for saying that he had everything handed to him. Seth says he knows who he is, knows that his place in WWE is right at the top says that in 200 years, families will talk about him around fireplaces. He then says he will become the first-ever WWE Universal Champion at SummerSlam.
Cesaro beats Sheamus after Sheamus accidentally hits the ref and checks on him, causing Sheamus to almost argue with him only for him to be rolled up by Cesaro.
We see a video and interview package for Brock Lesnar vs. Randy Orton at SummerSlam covering the last 15 years.
Brock Lesnar will be live on Raw next week!
Neville's tag team partner is Sin Cara.
Neville and Sin Cara beat The Dudley Boyz (Bubba Ray and D-Von Dudley).
SmackDown General Manager Daniel Bryan arrives at the building...
Rusev shows up along with Lana to celebrate their recent wedding. They both walk down the aisle together before entering the ring, which contains flowers and a table with several cakes. Lana says Rusev gave her a fairy tale wedding, but none of us could see it because it was VIP only, and now they will relive the wedding day live on Raw. Lana then shows us a video package of her and Rusev's wedding photos before saying that Rusev is the greatest man of all time. Lana and Rusev then talk about Lana's custom-made wedding dress and the cakes in the ring, then renew about their wedding vows. Before they can renew them, though, Roman Reigns shows up, and says he noticed that Rusev didn't even have a best man, and proposes a toast. Rusev refuses, and Roman tells him to accept his challenge at SummerSlam. Roman then decides to do the toast anyway, and toasts Lana and Rusev for providing a marriage between "a Bulgarian Sasquatch and a mail-order bride" before making fun of Rusev's love life. This starts a brawl between the two men, which ends after Roman sends Rusev into Lana, knocking Lana into one of the cakes. Lana and Rusev lose it and start destroying everything in the ring.
Rusev and Lana are backstage with Raw General Manager Mick Foley. Mick Foley makes a match between Rusev and Roman Reigns for the United States title official at SummerSlam.
Sasha Banks beats Dana Brooke after Charlotte accidentally slaps Dana Brooke in the face. As per the stipulation from earlier tonight, Dana Brooke is banned from ringside at SummerSlam.
We get another look at Nia Jax.
We look back on The 1-2-3 Kid's upset win over Razor Ramon on Raw in 1993 as part of a promotion for the new Ben-Hur movie.
Finn Balor says Seth Rollins has some misconceptions about him, as what Seth calls dsirespect and arrogance, he calls heart and confidence. He namedrops Finn MacCool, the Banshees, Dullahan and even the demon Balor himself. He tells Seth he's never seen a demon like Finn Balor, and at SummerSlam, Seth will meet the demon king.
Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, both dressed in doctor's coats, talk about "ringpostitis" and make jokes about Big E's groin injury before saying they will get another sample from Kofi Kingston.
The Scarpulla Family are upgraded to the front row tonight thanks to Little Caesars Pizza.
Luke Gallows beats Kofi Kingston. He and Karl Anderson almost slam Kofi Kingston groin-first into the turnbuckle post like they did Big E, but Xavier Woods makes the save with a steel chair.
The Golden Truth (Goldust and R-Truth) meet Scooby-Doo as part of an advertisement for Scooby-Doo and the Curse of the Speed Demon.
Raw General Manager Mick Foley shows up. He introduces his special guest, SmackDown Live General Manager Daniel Bryan. The crowd cheers when he asks if Mick Foley is doing a good job running Raw. Mick Foley says Daniel Bryan is doing a good job on both SmackDown Live and The Cruiserweight Classic. D-Bry then thanks Foley for inviting him, then Foley apologizes to D-Bry for Brock Lesnar's invasion of the former's show. Foley then shows the Talking Smack footage of Daniel Bryan making fun of the WWE Universal Championship, then Rusev shows up saying he is Raw's champion. Daniel Bryan thinks Rusev is trying to suck up to Foley to get out of his SummerSlam match, but Rusev threatens to crush Daniel Bryan. Cesaro shows up, wanting a title opportunity after winning this week and last week. Mick Foley gives Cesaro a shot at the United States title right now.
Next week on Raw: Seth Rollins calls out the demon king!
Rusev retains the WWE United States Championship against Cesaro after Sheamus continuously interferes, with the ref going down at one point after Cesaro sends Rusev into both the ref and Sheamus at the same time. After the match, Rusev is hit hard with a Spear from Roman Reigns.
reDRagon (Bobby Fish and Kyle O'Reilly) tell The Kingdom (Matt Taven and Michael Bennett) that they're better than them.
Nigel McGuinness welcomes tonight's crowd to the show, and says Roderick Strong has asked for an immediate rematch against Jay Lethal for the ROH World Championship. At the Philadelphia television tapings on August 21st, this will be official and the winner will take the title to All-Star Extravaganza in San Antonio, Texas on September 18. Kyle O'Reilly. Bobby Fish will get a ROH Television Championship match that night as well. He then tells everyone to enjoy the show.
Jay Lethal guests on commentary for the next match.
War Machine (Hansen and Rowe) beat The House of Truth (J Diesel and Donovan Dijak). Jay Lethal talks smack to Hansen after the match, saying he will beat him in three weeks' time.
Adam Page quickly beats Tim Hughes. After the match, BJ Whitmer - now on crutches sings Page's praises, saying he proved himself the future of the company after beating ACH. Whitmer asks if he's ready to make a statement, and is he ever: Page calls out Jay Briscoe and tells him to man up. Briscoe isn't here tonight, but Page says he's scared to come out anyway. Whitmer then harasses Steve Corino once again, and Nigel McGuinness has to keep them from attacking each other.
Steve Corino has been removed from commentary in an attempt to calm down both Corino and BJ Whitmer.
Adam Cole guests on commentary for the next match, much to the chagrin of The Kingdom (Maria Kanellis, Matt Taven, Michael Bennett).
The Kingdom (Matt Taven and Michael Bennett) beat reDRagon (Bobby Fish and Kyle O'Reilly). After the match, Adam Cole stops Taven and Bennett from performing another double team piledriver.
Big Show shows up to start the show. Show says he had two goals when he started wrestling: to be the best giant this business ever saw, and to make all the money he could. He fins it funny that he has made certain choices to provide for himself and his family, but the WWE Universe calls him a sell-out when they would have easily done the same thing if they were in his shoes and Show wants to know why. Show then goes on to say that he is the greatest giant ever seen, that he's won more championships than Andre the Giant, and has held nearly every title in the WWE. He then says everyone in the locker room - and the crowd - is beneath him and wish they could be someone like him. Show then focuses on Ryback and his "feed me more" message. Ryback is still Intercontinental champ, but is at home with a serious injury. We then see the photo of Ryback’s knee. All Show has gotten out of this is that Ryback is weak and wants everyone to be amazed at his staph infection, and that he will overcome it with the help of the WWE Universe and seize the day. Show calls Ryback's belief that any obstacle can be overcome is garbage, and that Ryback's fifteen minutes of fame are up, as he will still have to deal with Big Show, to whom he will lose the Intercontinental Championship to. Show then says that he has learned in his 20+ years in the business that everyone's dreams are worth destroying. Jack Swagger shows up and tells Show to shut the hell up. Show mocks Swagger, telling him he is not the Jack who is going to cut down the beanstalk and kill the giant. He tells Swagger to go to the back, but Swagger says that Show is scared, and that he picked the wrong city to be scared in. He wants everyone to stand up. He can either leave, or go to the ring and fight.
Big Show beats Jack Swagger.
The Ascension (Konnor and Viktor) are in the ring. Viktor says "lucha" might mean fight in Spanish, but tonight it means dead meat. Tonight, they will crush their dreams of ever being the Tag Team Champions. Konnor says that after they are done slaying the Lucha Dragons (Sin Cara and Kalisto), The Prime Time Players (Darren Young and Titus O'Neil) are next. Viktor says you are looking at the next WWE Tag Team Champions.
The Lucha Dragons (Sin Cara and Kalisto) beat The Ascension (Konnor and Viktor).
Dean Ambrose starts off the show. Triple H and Stephanie McMahon may hold all the cards, but they couldn't hold him down, and he's about to mention his stipulation. All of a sudden, Seth Rollins shows up and tells him to mention his stipulation already, even though - according to Rollins - it won't matter what the stipulation is, as he says SummerSlam will be Ambrose's end. Ambrose says Rollins will run into the bodies that he and Rollins stacked as part of The Shield along with Roman Reigns, as their match will be a Lumberjack Match. Rollins tells Ambrose that tonight, as per Triple H and Stephanie McMahon, that he has the ability to pick Ambrose's opponent tonight. Rollins picks Randy Orton to take him on.
Big Show and "The World's Strongest Man" Mark Henry beat Rybaxel (Curtis Axel and Ryback).
Dolph Ziggler chats with Adam Rose and the Divas when Seth Rollins shows up and gets in Ziggler's face. Rollins decides to challenge him tonight. Ziggler accepts.
Damien Sandow shows up to his match against Sin Cara dressed as a Border Patrol guard.
Sin Cara beats Damien Sandow.
Seth Rollins beats Dolph Ziggler.
Renee Young interviews Randy Orton. Orton promises to prove himself the more sinister and diabolical Superstar over Dean Ambrose tonight.
Paige beats Natalya with the PTO.
Rusev beats Big E with the Accolade.
Tom Phillips interviews Chris Jericho. At SummerSlam, Jericho hopes to rid the WWE of The Wyatt Family (Bray Wyatt, Erick Rowan, Luke Harper).
John Cena and Brock Lesnar will be on Raw next week!
Dean Ambrose vs. Randy Orton ends with interference from Seth Rollins. This starts a brawl with ends with an RKO from Orton and Rollins pouring soda on Ambrose before hitting him with the Curb Stomp.
Aces and Eights - Tazz, Bully Ray and Mr. Anderson, at least - show up. Tazz and Mr. Anderson bully Jeremy Borash before they join him on commentary. Bully Ray threatens to slap Tito Ortiz if Ortiz gets in his way. He's also angry about being in a tag match with Devon against Chris Sabin and a member of Main Event Mafia. He calls out Sabin, who shows up. After Sabin shoots some insults at Bully, Bully calls out Hulk Hogan. Brooke Hogan shows up instead (and with the contract for the Bully-Sabin match), and says Hulk Hogan is out of town talking to the TNA Board of Directors, and they are holding Bully Ray to the law with his current contract and his match with Sabin. According to an e-mail, if Bully Ray loses to Chris Sabin at Hardcore Justice next week, he can never go for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship ever again. Bully Ray signs the contract when Brooke enters the ring and gives it to him, then Sabin signs it. The match is on!
Jeff Hardy rolls up Samoa Joe for three points in the Bound For Glory Series.
Christopher Daniels plans to beat his friend Kazarian in the Bound For Glory Series...not only to show him who the leader of Bad Influence really is, but to put his selfishness to an end.
Mr. Anderson beats Magnus by disqualification after Bobby Roode rushes in and hits Mr. Anderson with a steel chair right in front of the ref, before patting Magnus on the shoulder. Anderson wins three points in the Bound For Glory Series while Magnus loses ten!
Bobby Roode is just getting started with his schemes, Magnus forgives the referee of his match and Mickie James starts a potential alliance with the Bro Mans (Robbie E and Jesse Godderz) by asking them to take out James Storm and Gunnar.
Tito Ortiz is here, and he's heading to the ring..
Tito Ortiz shows up. Before he can say anything, Kurt Angle shows up and gives him the "this is my world" conversation he gave to Quentin "Rampage" Jackson. Bully Ray shows up and verbally craps on both men before threatening to slap Tito.
"The Cowboy" James Storm, Gunner and ODB beat Mickie James and the Bro Mans (Robbie E and Jesse Godderz). Afterwards, Mickie beats up ODB, then taunts Gail Kim, who then taunts ODB in return.
Kazarian plans to beat Christopher Daniels tonight.
Bully Ray and Devon plan to beat Chris Sabin and the Main Event Mafia at their own game tonight.
Both Christopher Daniels and Kazarian get themselves counted out for three points each, then Bobby Roode shows up. He drops the steel chair he's carrying, grabs a mike...and starts an alliance with both Daniels and Kazarian!
Chris Sabin's partner is Sting...or so we think. It's really Kurt Angle, and the whole entrance is Angle's attempt at putting one over on Aces and Eights!
Chris Sabin and Kurt Angle beat Aces and Eights (Bully Ray and Devon).
