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.
Rey Mysterio heads to the ring to start tonight's show. He welcomes everyone to tonight's show, then talks about how he got his start in AAA and thanks the administration of AAA for making this show possible.
Mr. Iguana, La Parka and El Nino Hamburguesa beat Los Vipers (Taurus, Histeria, Abismo Negro Jr.) in a trios match.
Penta is interviewed backstage. He says it has been fifteen years since he has been in AAA, and that he will be watching tonight's main event.
Flammer beats Lady Shani after Lola Vice and La Hiedra have a brief brawl on the outside and Maravia grabs at Lady Shani from the outside.
El Hijo del Vikingo is interviewed backstage. He is not happy that Los Americanos (El Grande Americano, Rayo Americano, Bravo Americano) are getting more love from the fans than he is.
El Hijo del Dr. Wagner Jr. heads to the ring. As he throws out an open challenge for the AAA Latin American Championship, Santos Escobar - wearing El Fantasma's mask - shows up behind him. Both men have a staredown, then shake hands before Santos whispers some to him, decks him with a sucker punch and picks up the AAA Latin American Championship while unmasking to reveal that he is back as Santos Escobar. He then hands the Latin American title back to a furious El Hijo del Dr. Wagner Jr. before heading to the back.
We see a vignette for "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio. He says that everyone is excited for the new show on Fox, especially with more eyes on AAA than ever before. He says this is happening because everybody loves to listen to him and because he is the new champion, and because he did something his father was never able to do: beat John Cena. He says his face will be all over Mexico with banners hanging over buildings and statues created in his honor for all he has done, and that he will always be known as the king of the luchadors. (The animated parts of the vignette are AI-generated in order to create a "comic book" styled look; at one point in the vignette, the AEW logo is seen on what is supposed to be the AAA Mega Championship. The clip goes viral to the point of ridicule by fans. When the show is aired on YouTube, the clip with the AEW logo is cut, although one shot with the WWE Intercontinental Championship with a mispelled "Intencontinental" on the front plate still remains.)
El Hijo del Vikingo beats El Grande Americano to face "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio for the AAA Mega Championship. During the match, El Grande Americano pulls out the metal plate for his mask, but throws it down to the outside instead of putting it in his mask. After Dorian Roldan gets ejected from the match after grabbing onto Vikingo's legs to stop a Superplex attempt, Americano tries to retrieve the metal plate only to be stopped by Omos. This allows Vikingo to get the upper hand and win with a top rope 450 splash. After the match, Americano takes out Vikingo with a Spear, then comes face-to-face with Omos. Americano goes for repeated headbutts on Omos, but is cut down with a big boot. Rey Mysterio leaves commentary and comes back with a shinai, and Dorian Roldan holds Omos back before the two of them leave with Vikingo.
We see what happened after the show went off the air (but wasn't shown due to a production botch). "The Wanted Man" Nic Nemeth calls his shot on Mike Santana, but Santana fights Nemeth. After security stops the brawl, Director of Authority Santino Marella shows up and makes the TNA World Championship Match at Genesis a Texas Death Match. Daria Rae then shows up and makes Nic Nemeth the special guest referee for the match.
It is announced that KJ Orso is the third challenger for the TNA International Championship tonight.
Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo retains the TNA International Championship against KJ Orso (formerly known as Fuego del Sol), Eric Young and BDE after Eric Young hits KJ Orso with a piledriver only for Stacks to toss Eric Young out of the ring and pin Orso to win and retain. TNA President Carlos Silver personally hands the TNA International Championship to Stacks after the match.
Backstage, Daria Rae shows up and chews out Director of Authority Santino Marella when his idea of punishing Channing "Stacks" Lorezno by putting him in a four-way championship match backfires.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Robert Stone, Tessa Blanchard, Victoria Crawford and Mila Moore are messing with people, including a wrestler named Vicki. Indi Hartwell shows up and confronts the four of them, then tags with Vicki against them.
The Personal Concierge George Iceman talks about how The Elegance Brand (The Personal Concierge George Iceman, Ash by Elegance, Heather by Elegance, M by Elegance, Mr. Elegance) are making headlines from their appearance on the AMC premiere before introducing them. When The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance, M by Elegance, Mr. Elegance) shows up, The Personal Concierge says that The Elegance Brand smells elegant while the fans smell like "dirty, filthy pigs smothered in barbecue sauce," then give the fans a chance to take a picture of them before they watch the next match in seats the fans cannot afford, which are just metal folding chairs at ringside.
Tessa Blanchard and Mila Moore beat "Vicious" Vicki Venuto and Indi Hartwell. During the match, Robert Stone gets on the apron so that Victoria Crawford can trip Vicki off the top rope, and as Indi confronts Stone and Victoria, she steps on M by Elegance's foot, causing a brawl between her and The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance, M by Elegance, Mr. Elegance). Tessa Blanchard then hits Vicious Vicki with the Buzzsaw DDT for the win.
Romeo Vaugh sings The Star Spangled Banner.
AJ Francis beats Rich Swann with a reverse Down Payment followed by a regular one done completely with one hand.
Backstage, Gia Miller interviews Mike Santana. Santana says Frankie Kazarian gave him the fight of his life and gives credit where credit is due, but tonight, he thrives in the trenches and survives in the pressure. He thanks family and friends who reached out to him after becoming TNA World Champion again, including his daughter, then says he will continue to show the illest and realest to ever do it.
Mustafa Ali beats Elijah. During the match, Special Agent Zero pulls the referee out of a pinfall attempt and gets ejected, and when John Skyler and Jason Hotch defend Special Agent Zero, they are also ejected. Tasha Steelz goes for a guitar shot on Elijah only for Elijah to catch her for a Highwayman's Farewell, but Mustafa takes the guitar and smashes Elijah in the back with it for the pin and the win.
Eddie Edwards beats JDC in The Last Dance with two Boston Knee Parties, a Diehard Driver, and a third Boston Knee Party. After the match, the rest of The System shows up to celebrate the end of a career with JDC in the ring, and members of the locker room also show up to applaud JDC from the stage. JDC thanks the fans and everyone at ringside, then celebrates one last time on the stage.
As per the Bioflex Injury Report: Elijah is currently in evaluation after re-aggravating his tricep tonight, and updates will be provided when available. Steve Maclin is now out following last week's attack, but he will be back for next week's show. The Hardys are not at 100%, but are cleared to compete and defend the TNA World Tag Team Championships against The Righteous (Vincent and Dutch).
"The Hollywood Hunk" Ryan Nemeth beats Mara Sadé after using the bottom rope for leverage during a stack-up pin after drop kicking Mara Sadé off the top rope.
Backstage, we hear from Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo and Arianna Grace. Arianna says her father Director of Authority Santino Marella thought he was smart, but Stacks won again, and Santino made another decision based on emotion rather than with his head. Stacks says Santino wanted the TNA International Championship off of him, but he won again. Arianna says Santino has lost her and the International title, and that he is about to lose his job, and that no matter what gets thrown Stacks' way, Stacks will continue to be champion.
Lei Ying Lee retains the TNA Knockouts World Championship against Zaria. During the match, The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance and M by Elegance) watch the match from the stage. When Zaria inadvertently knocks the referee out hitting Lei Ying Lee with an F5, both Sol Ruca and Xia Brookside check on the ref just before The Elegance Brand rush to the ring. Brookside and Sol Ruca take them out and brawl with them to the back. After the match, TNA President Carlos Silva personally awards the TNA Knockouts World Championship to Lei Ying Lee. Afterwards, Zaria and Lei Ying Lee shake hands, then Elayna Black shows up and makes it clear she wants the TNA Knockouts World Championship.
Backstage, we hear from Nic Nemeth. Nic says that he is in total control and that a ten count decides who the TNA World Champion is. He says he has a front row seat to all of this, and hopes the best man wins before walking out with the Call Your Shot Gauntlet Trophy.
The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy) retain the TNA World Tag Team Championships against The Righteous (Vincent and Dutch), with Dutch saying that this is what The Righteous wanted and that they wanted to hurt people. After the match, Dutch pushes the TNA World Tag Team Championships over to The Hardys.
We hear from Leon Slater. He apologizes to the fans for not being able to be at last week's show or at Genesis due to issues beyond his and TNA's control. Slater then thanks Joe Hendry for taking his place in Cedric Alexander and Moose's match and that he will defend against Cedric and Moose when he gets back.
Anthem Sports & Entertainment founder and CEO Leonard Asper and TNA President Carlos Silva are seen in the crowd.
Joe Hendry beats Cedric Alexander and Moose in a Triple Threat Match with a Standing Ovation to Cedric following a Lumbar Check from Cedric to Moose. During the match, Moose is temporarily out after landing back-first onto some ring steps following a back body drop by Hendry, but he gets back into the ring a couple of minutes later. This gives Moose back issues for the rest of the match.
Director of Authority Santino Marella shows up, and the Countdown panel give their predictions on who will win between Mike Santana and Frankie Kazarian in the Texas Death Match for the TNA World Championship. Before Tommy Dreamer can give his prediction, Daria Rae shows up, says nobody cares about "Little Timmy's" opinion, then has the video package for Kazarian vs. Santana play.
Mike Santana retains the TNA World Championship against Frankie Kazarian in a Texas Death Match after hitting Spin the Block with barbed wire around his arm. Both men grab the ropes, but Kazarian falls over at nine just before he can get back on his feet. "The Wanted Man" Nic Nemeth is the special guest referee. After the match, TNA President Carlos Silva personally awards the TNA World Championship to Santana. Nic Nemeth raises Santana's hand only to lay him out, then cashes in the Call Your Shot Gauntlet Trophy. Before a referee can get to the ring, Santana hits Nemeth with Spin The Block to stop the cash in and end the show.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews The Rascalz (Zachary Wentz, Dezmond Xavier, Myron Reed), who come out of a smoke-filled room. The Rascalz introduce themselves as one of the best factions in nearly a decade, so it is only right for them to be in AEW. They also said they are here not to take part, but to take over, and they want to take on the best tag teams and trios. They then head back into the smoke-filled room. (It is later revealed that Trey Miguel was originally supposed to be with the rest of the group, but was released from his contract by Warner Bros. Discovery over old social media posts during his social media beef with David Starr. Trey will remove all AEW references from social media, ask the fans to keep supporting The Rascalz, apologize for his past actions and take a hiatus from professional wrestling )
Eddie Kingston and Ortiz beat Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake) after Eddie shoves James Drake towards Ortiz, who hits James Drake with a madball from the outside.
In backstage footage from Dynamite, Kris Statlander says she would take a bullet for The Babes of Wrath (Willow Nightingale and Harley Cameron) any day of the week if it means being out in the ring with her two best friends. She then wants to know if "The Toxic Spider" Thekla can keep going and face her for the AEW World Championship after she pinned her.
Tony Schivaone interviews FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) and Stokely Hathaway. Stokely refuses to say anything bad about The Don Callis Family and drag anyone down for retweets, likes and memes, then congratulates Mark Davis and Jake Doyle on becoming #1 contenders for the AEW World Tag Team Championships. He says he envies them because they have the size, the strength and the look of professional wrestlers, and that he longs for the days where professional wrestlers looked like professional wrestlers. He then says that they have everything except the ability to beat FTR. Cash Wheeler says nobody has the resumé or the body of work that FTR has, and while Mark Davis and Jake Doyle are good, they are not "FTR good." Dax Harwood says hello to Nigel McGuiness, then is hit with a "We don't care" chant before he says that the fans live in a fantasy world and think that whatever is new and shiny is the greatest thing of all time. He says that he has nothing against Jake Doyle or Mark Davis; just the issues surrounding them, as the fans just build their ego up and make them think they are something after being put in one tag team match for the tag team titles in a division that FTR built. Dax says he does not care what they have done in the past or what they will do in the future, but now, they are in the midst of the greatest tag team of all time, and just like the fans, they beg to be like FTR when there is only one FTR.
We hear from Cru (Lio Rush and Action Andretti) and Lacey Lane, who have heard what (Zachary Wentz, Dezmond Xavier, Myron Reed) have tos ee and plan to give them a welcome to AEW that they will never forget.
Jon Moxley guests on commentary for the next match.
"The Problem" Marina Shafir beats "The Real Deal" Zayda Steel by submission with Mother's Milk.
Don Callis briefly guests on commentary alongside Jon Moxley before the next match. Moxley and Callis soon argue over the potential length of Moxley's Continental Championship reign. Callis then leaves, and when Moxley leaves, he is attacked from behind by Lance Archer and Rocky "Azucar" Romero. Wheeler Yuta, Claudio Castagnoli, and Daniel Garcia soon rush in to even the numbers as Don Callis returns to commentary. Skyflight (Scorpio Sky, Darius Martin, Dante Martin) soon show up to get the jump on The Don Callis Family ("The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher, "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander, El Clon) before the next match begins.
The Don Callis Family ("The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher, "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander, El Clon) beat Skyflight (Scorpio Sky, Darius Martin, Dante Martin) in a trios match. After the match, "The Alpha" Konosuke Takeshita shows up and raises Fletcher's hand in victory before celebrating with the rest of The Don Callis Family.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Orange Cassidy and Roderick Strong. Roderick says he was not done with Claudio Castagnoli and that he is taking his title, then makes it clear he does not want Orange's support. Mark Briscoe stops Roderick and tells him he needs to stick around, then addresses El Clon, blaming him for Hologram's absence and calling him "a science fair experiment gone wrong." He also says that El Clon and Komander had a hell of a match and that El Clon came out victorious, then challengesEl Clon for the TNT Championship next week.
We hear from MJF, who compares himself to legendary world champions and says that he will show everyone that he is better than them no matter where, and that his defense in Maine will be the first of many successful defenses to his name. He says that his second reign as AEW World Champion will make the first look short and sweet, and that he will be greater than all of the legends he mentioned combined.
Megan Bayne and Penelope Ford (the latter of whom has returned from injury) beat Viva Van and Danielle Kamela. After the match, Timeless Love Bombs ("Timeless" Toni Storm and Mina Shirakawa) and Luther show up, and Toni says that "The Problem" Marina Shafir cannot hide behind Megan Bayne and Penelope Ford, and Mina says they have not forgotten what the three of them have done to them and that they will pay. Toni says she will rip Penelope's other arm off and slap Megan Bayne in the head with it, and if Shafir wants a death ride, then she can ride her caboose so she can meet her maker. Toni then states that the difference between her and God is that God does not wear any lipstick.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Swerve Strickland and Prince Nana. Swerve says that he plans to keep winning in order to become AEW World Champion, then "The Jet" Kevin Knight shows up. Knight says that he is the now, not the future, and that it is time to start beating more of the present to show that the future is now. Swerve takes this as a challenge, then tells Knight to win the AEW World Trios Championship before talking to him again. He says that he sees Knight not just as the future of AEW, but the business, then says he is a future main eventer before telling him not to take five or six years to get there.
Ricochet guests on commentary for the next match.
"Jungle" Jack Perry beats "The Pride of Pro Wrestling" Anthony Bowens to receive a future shot at the AEW National Championship. When Ricochet puts his feet up at the announce table, Perry attacks Ricochet and chases him to the back.
We hear from The Death Riders (Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, PAC, Daniel Garcia, "The Problem" Marina Shafir). Jon Moxley says that giving The Don Callis Family a lot of space, but having a match with them is another thing entirely PAC asks The Don Callis Family who they think they are and if they have forgotten who The Death Riders are, and Daniel Garcia says that The Don Callis Family have crossed a line there is no turning back from, and that a real family has each others' back even when the world hates them. Jon Moxley says he has been in the game for twenty-two years and that he has seen every snake, carny and slime in it, and he knows exactly who Don Callis is. Moxley also proclaims that out of all the bad people in professional, he himself is the worst when he has to be.
Hook guests on commentary for the next match.
"Hangman" Adam Page and JetSpeed ("The Jet" Kevin Knight and "Speedball" Mike Bailey) beat The Opps (Samoa Joe, Powerhouse Hobbs, Katsuyori Shibata) to become the AEW World Trios Champions after Kevin Knight counters a spinebuster from Powerhouse Hobbs with a stack-up pin. After the match, Swerve Strickland and Prince Nana applaud Kevin Knight for winning a title.
Dustin Starr interviews Mike Anthony at the announce desk to start tonight's show. Mike Anthony admits he missed being at Memphis Wrestling, then talks about how he lost the Internet Championship a day short of a year-long reign before coming back at the Grind City Rumble and punching his ticket to SuperBout V. He then announces that he will take on Tim Bosby for the Memphis Wrestling Heritage Championship, yet there is a void in his heart, and he asks "The Gift" Ray Sanders to meet him at the announce desk. Mike Anthony says he is not convinced with his victory, as Ray Sanders had put in work for a solid work, and he questions if he was really the better man or if he just caught him at the wrong time. Ray Sanders says he fought tooth and nail to beat Sycho Simon only for Tim Bosby to cash in at the perfect time to beat him for a title he just won, and while he understands where Derrick King is coming from, he would have done what Bosby did. He then says that he came close to winning until Mike Anthony pinned him, and calls him the better man. Mike Anthony gets where Ray Sanders is coming from as they shake hands, then says they should have a rematch.
We hear from "The GunShow" Brett Michaels, who announces that he returns home to Memphis Wrestling at SuperBout V.
"Cold Hearted" Colton Cage retains the Memphis Wrestling Junior Heritage Championship against Major Curtis after throwing his recruit in the crowd into the ring post before hitting the Cold Hearted Cutter on Major Curtis after Major Curtis pops a salute. After the match, "The Gold Standard" Eli Knox shows up and asks what he has to put on the line to get a shot at the Junior Heritage Championship. Colton Cage scratches his head, then goes up to two fans who make it clear that Eli Knox has to put his hair on the line. Colton Cage agrees with this, and gives Eli Knox the opportunity to put up or shut up. An apprehensive Eli Knox impulsively says yes.
We hear from Tim Bosby, who says that he will be in the main event with Wonder Boy today and that he will snap his ankle like he did with Derrick King.
Backstage, Big Nasty Phil meets with matchmaker King Cobra. He apologizes for what he did as a heel to him and others, and he wants to start 2026 on the good foot by taking care of Main Event Bradley once and for all. King Cobra says he will make it happen.
Dustin Starr interviews "The Problem" Aaron Roberts at the announce desk. He says that he has been partners with "The Chosen One" Zay Washington for three years and that people have been telling him to watch his back. He says that he plucked him out of "the jobber hotel" and made him a star, but Justin Case got distracted by the new shiny toy. He says they could have handled things like men, but Zay Washington rattled his cage. All of a sudden, "Slick" Nick Scott shows up for the next match, and "The Problem" Aaron Roberts flattens him in the corner as soon as he turns around. Zay Washington and Justin Case show up, with Zay Washington guesting on commentary saying he was the reason Aaron Roberts earned a WWE ID contract in the first place.
"The Problem" Aaron Roberts beats "Slick" Nick Scott. After the match, referees step in to stop a potential brawl between Roberts and "The Chosen One" Zay Washington.
Backstage, Marko Stunt meets Makkari Kandy, saying she had his favorite match on Christmas Day. Makkari hands Marko a lollipop on the way out, then Marko Stunt runs into VaShawn Harvey, who says he is the hottest free agent on his radar. Marko Stunt is not interested in managing Vashawn Harvey until he changes his mindset of thinking he is better than anyone else.
We see security camera footage of The Slaughterhouse (Reverend Ash Taylor, Jagged James, Nasty Nick) attacking The Modern Day Monsters (Bruce and Marrow) in the WrestleCenter parking lot. They attack Bruce, then kidnap Morrow.
Dustin Starr interviews The Hollywood Clique ("Hollywood" Jimmy Blaylock, Jay Smooth, Kale, Secret Service) at the announce desk. He compares Memphis Wrestling to "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly," considering The Hollywood Clique good, people like Dustin Starr bad and the fans ugly. He also mentions that The Hollywood Clique have yet to get a match anywhere on the card, much less a tag team title rematch, and after Jay Smooth demand something be done, he tells Jay Smooth and Kale to get what they need from the back. Jimmy Blaylock calls the rest of the tag team divison cowards before holding the show hostage, with The Hollywood Clique sitting down on metal folding chairs in the ring before the rest of the tag team division shows up and fights The Hollywood Clique. This leads to a brawl between everyone in the tag team division that all the referees have to break up.
We hear from "The Thrillbilly" Silas Mason, who says that he has spent time in Memphis, Tennessee and that "Wildfire" Tommy Rich will be at Memphis Wrestling. He says that everyone knows how his time on top ended and how he wants a taste of the legacy that he once had, and that he will get a chance at that feeling again when he comes face-to-face in the ring with him, shakes his hand and thanks him while calling him the greatest NWA World Heavyweight Champion of all time.
Dustin Starr interviews Xya Wolfe at the announce desk. She says that The Bizness Dawgs (Tim Grind and Lil' Homie) can take care of business, then says she has business of her own in the ring this week.
Xya Wolfe beats KJ Rockett after the ref stops KJ Rockett from holding on to Sevyn Cruz, allowing Xya Wolfe to complete a Sunset Flip for the pin and the win.
Dustin Starr interviews Tim Bosby at the announce desk. Bosby says that Derrick King got involved in business he did not belong in and that he now has a broken ankle, that "The Gift" Ray Sanders and Mike Anthony are both "bald-headed geeks," and that at SuperBout V, he will beat down whoever between them steps up. Wonder Boy and The Shocker show up, and Wonder Boy says he used to respect Tim Bosby, but now he has disappointed him with how he won the Heritage Championship, as he saw him as a superhero. Wonder Boy then states that Ray Sanders, not Tim Bosby, is the hero Memphis Wrestling needs. Bosby says he has no problem completing a "Make-A-Wish" today and offers to shake his hand, but when Wonder Boy refuses, he pokes him in the eye. Bosby then attacks The Shocker before getting Wonder Boy in the ring for the next match.
Tim Bosby beats Wonder Boy by submission and referee stoppage with the ankle lock. After the match, Tim Bosby refuses to let go of the hold, and when The Shocker hits him with a double ax handle from the top rope, Bosby responds with a Bos-Plex followed by a ripcord lariat to The Shocker. Tim Bosby stands over both Wonder Boy and The Shocker as the show ends.
Rey Mysterio heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Rey says it feels great to be back home in San Diego, California and that he could not think of a better place to reminisce and do the impossible once again when he declares for the 2025 Royal Rumble. He talks about he entered the 2006 Royal Rumble at #2 and won it all to main event WrestleMania to become World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania 22. Rey admits that competition is heavy this year with Drew McIntyre, CM Punk, Seth "Freakin'" Rollins, Roman Reigns, John Cena being in the match and says it will be tough, but when he won it in 2006, he did it for Eddie Guerrero. Suddenly, Kevin Owens shows up and apologizes for interrupting before telling Rey that there are a lot of people who he respects and few that he respects as much as Rey, and that there is nobody he respects more than him. Owens mentions his accolades before mentioning the Winged Eagle Championship on his shoulder and declaring himself "the true, rightful WWE Champion," then says all he has left in his career is to face Rey Mysterio in a match. He hopes that Rey wins the Royal Rumble, then asks Rey to promise him that he will be the champion that he picks. Rey says he loves challenges and competition, but says "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes, not Owens, is the champion. Nevertheless, he says that if Owens were to win, he would be glad to face him for the title. Owens insists he is champion and accuses Rey of being brainwashed by Cody, and Rey says Owens is reminding him of his son Dominik Mysterio right now. This starts a brawl, and Owens has to slide out of the ring to avoid the 619.
Backstage, Naomi tells Bianca Belair that there is no update on Jade Cargill. Bianca says they have tonight's match, and Naomi says that they still have their gold and that they have Candice LeRae and Nia Jax tonight. Naomi then tells Bianca to wrap her up so as not to have a repeat of last week, which Bianca does.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis gives Rey Mysterio a one-on-one match with Kevin Owens when "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes shows up and apologizes for not being there due to being checked on medically. Rey tells Cody to heal up and that he will do something for him when he wins. Rey leaves, then Cody says he has a clean bill of health. Aldis says there is a lot of time between now and the Rumble, and mentions that he has an addendum to his match with Owens that both men have to sign. Cody says he will sign when Owens signs.
Bianca Belair and Naomi beat Nia Jax and Candice LeRae after Nia inadvertently hits Candice with a leg drop.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Byron Saxton interviews Bayley. Bayley says everyone dreams about being in the main event of SmackDown and feels like her last championship reign could have been better, and says Tiffany Stratton is willing to betray her friend to stay on top, which makes her to win that much more.
Backstage, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab talk about Chelsea Green when Piper Niven shows up pretending to be Chelsea's "Secret Her-vice" agent. Chelsea brags about bbeating Michin, and B-Fab says that if it were not for Piper, Chelsea would not be champion. Piper threatens to make B-Fab's next step her last, and that leads to B-Fab challenging Piper to a match tonight.
Backstage, Jimmy Uso says the goal is to make sure Carmelo stay missing, and while it is time to become a champion himself, "Big Jim is Him" when it comes to Carmelo Hayes.
Before the next match, Carmelo Hayes says Jimmy Uso is living in the brother of "Main Event" Jey Uso, who is living in the shadow of Roman Reigns, yet wants to take shots at him. He then asks how Jimmy will take shots while sitting at the bench, then tells him to lace his boots up, as he will show him why he doesn't miss. Jimmy ties his shoes, tosses Carmelo into the ring, puts on his sunglasses, then nearly superkicks him get the match started.
Jimmy Uso beats Carmelo Hayes by disqualification after Jacob Fatu distracts Jimmy so that Tama Tonga can shove Jimmy off the top rope. After the match, Tama and Jacob attack Jimmy. Carmelo gets up and tries to be chummy with them only for Jacob to clothesline him before he and Tama continue to beat up Jimmy. Solo Sikoa then heads to the ring. After the commercial break, Solo Sikoa attempts to speak, but drops the microphone and leaves through the crowd instead. Jacob takes the microphone and says he is tired of the disrespect, the hate and the envy, but even on a bad day, nobody can still touch him. He says he does not care if the crowd cheers or boos him and Tama, because he will not let others act like he never got his. Jacob then says that he is just getting started. Suddenly, LA Knight shows up from behind Tama and Jacob and goes on the warpath, and as he is overpowered, Braun Strowman arrives and throws Tama out of the air before confronting Jacob. Jacob teases taking on Strowman, but Tama pulls Jacob out of the ring.
Backstage, Santos Escobar praises Angel and Berto for beating Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince), and tells him that they will take the moment away from The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) in order to gain respect.
The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) beat Los Garza (Angel and Berto) after Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince)'s interference backfires.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with Kevin Owens to get him to sign the contract for his match with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes at Royal Rumble. Owens says he will not sign until Cody signs, and that he needs to read the contract. He also mentions that he has a match to prepare for.
Piper Niven beats B-Fab after B-Fab takes out Chelsea Green on the outside. After the match, Chelsea and Piper attack B-Fab until "Michin" Mia Yim runs into the ring with a shinai and strikes Piper while Chelsea retreats. Piper counters, but Michin regains the upper hand.
WWE acknowledges the recent passing of Bob Uecker. In memory of Bob Uecker, 1934 - 2025.
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Tiffany Stratton. Tiffany admits Bayley had some big moments in the last year, but so has she, and she is now those moments. She says that Bayley's dream is going to die, because it is now "Tiffy Time."
Two-time WWE Women's Champion Victoria is seen in the crowd.
Kevin Owens beats Rey Mysterio after bumping into the referee, knocking him into the ropes and knocking Rey off the top turnbuckle, allowing Owens to hit the pop-up powerbomb for the win. After the match, Owens goes for a package piledriver on Rey, but Cody Rhodes runs into the ring and stops Owens. Officials have to run into the ring to restore order.
Backstage, Nick Aldis confronts "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and states that at Saturday Night's Main Event, both he and Owens will relinquish their respective titles and sign their match contract, and "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels will moderate the contract signing.
Backstage, #DIY (Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) confronts Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince) for allowing The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) to win tonight. Ciampa says he hates people who are happy to be here, as they are jokes, and tells them to become men. Ciampa leaves, then Gargano tells Pretty Deadly to get their acts together and heads off. Apollo Crews shows up again and says he told them so, but Pretty Deadly refuse to listen to him. Gargano then returns and attacks Apollo.
Roxanne Perez is seen in the crowd.
We see a vignette for Charlotte Flair.
Tiffany Stratton retains the WWE Women's Championship against Bayley. At one point in the match, Bayley has a confrontation with Roxanne Perez at the front row.
Christian Cage retains the TNT Championship against "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Swerve Strickland. Swerve says he has his eyes everywhere and that he would be a fool not to watch the main event. He says that people are talking about him more than anyone else since the Continental Classic and that makes him the most dangerous threat to the AEW World Championship. He says that "Hangman" Adam Page is an impeccable performer and champion and that he has watched him for some time, and could even wrestle and beat God, but he could not beat him. He says he has beaten Hangman before and he can do it again.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews Chris Jericho. Chris Jericho says the tag team titles were ripped out of his and Sammy Guevara's hands on Saturday by Don Callis, and entertains getting revenge on Konosuke Takeshita for hitting him with a shinai. As he says that he will seek and destroy, Matt Sydal shows up and says he knows Jericho better than this. He says that he must get back in the ring with someone who has beaten him before, like him. Jericho agrees to a match with Sydal at Rampage, but warns him that he has a lot of pent-up aggression and tells him to be careful what he wishes for.
Best Friends (Orange Cassidy and Trent Beretta) beat Penta el Zero Miedo and Komander. After the match, Undisputed Kingdom (Roderick Strong, Matt Taven, Mike Bennett) shows up. Roderick Strong dares Orange to take his glasses off and look him in the eyes, then says Orange has been a fighting champion willing to take on anyone at anytime but decided to take part in a tag match than defend his title. Roderick asks if the constant barrage of matches is becoming too much of if Orange knows the International Championship belongs him. Orange then tells Roderick that they can fight or the title right here, right now. Roderick says that Orange will have to wait until Revolution to defend the International Championship, as he wants Orange to wake up for the next six weeks knowing that he is keeping his title warm for him.
Backstage, Renee Paquette interviews "Hangman" Adam Page. Hangman says there has not been another soul who has cared for the AEW World Championship as much as him, and that he not only wants to win, but he wants to make it his own. On the subject of Swerve Strickland, he says he does not think about Swerve at all, then says it does not matter if Swerve can beat him because Swerve is not the world champion.
Mark Briscoe shows up on the stage as his family watches from the front row. He says he is here to represent The Briscoes (Jay and Mark Briscoe) and talks about how his brother tragically passed on one year ago today, as well as how his nieces were severely injured. Jay Briscoe's children show up on the stage as Mark Briscoe thanks their fans for their support. We then see a video package chronicling Jay Briscoe's life and career.
We see Renee Paquette interview The Young Bucks (Matt and Nick Jackson). Nick insists they be called "Nicholas and Matthew." Matt says the rumors are fake, then asks Renee what she would do if she hypothetically had rumors about her going around and asks if she would still do her job before saying he would do everything all over again. Matt says they wanted to change the world with All Elite World and spit in the face of tradition, and for a while, they did that. He admits they lost their way and the culture shifted, and perception of the company became different because they leaned on yesterday's superstars. Matt says that Sting is the exception and is a great employee, but also states that Sting represents the last of a dying breed and that everyone will have to say goodbye to Sting and everyone like him. On the subject of them supposedly calling out Sting for Revolution, Nick says that as executive vice presidents, they will pull some strings, then he and Matt leave.
Bullet Club Gold ("Switchblade" Jay White, Austin Gunn, Colten Gunn) beat The Mogul Embassy ("The Machine" Brian Cage, Bishop Kaun, Toa Liona) to become the Ring of Honor World Six-Man Tag Team Champions after Anthony Bowens stops Prince Nana from using one of the championship belts as a weapon.
Backstage, we hear from Adam Cole and Wardlow. Adam Cole says Wardlow has barely scratched the surface of what he can do, but now, Wardlow will be unbeatable and one of AEW's most notable champions when he runs through opponent after opponent until he becomes AEW World Champion.
"Timeless" Toni Storm, Luther and Mariah May guest on commentary for the next match.
"The Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo beats Anna Jay with the Venus de Milo. After the match, Renee Paquette interviews Deonna Purrazzo in the ring. Purrazzo tells "Timeless" Toni Storm that they have known each other for a long time and used to be like sisters, and while it is clear that Toni has changed, so has she. She says they may have been friends, but she has never faced the greatest technical wrestler in the world. Toni Storm gets on Luther's shoulders and calls Deonna "an artifically tanned hag" and says her past is none of her concern before throwing her shoe at her. Deonna throws it back at her, then Mariah May throws the shoe at Deonna before Deonna throws it at her, too.
Private Party (Marq Quen and Isiah Kassidy) beat Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin) after Quen rolls Darius up and grabs the top rope for leverage.
We see a video package of Darby Allin and Sting's history in AEW.
Samoa Joe retains the AEW World Championship against Hook after sending Hook into unconsciousness with the Coaquina Clutch after blocking Redrum. After the match, Hook asks Joe if that is all he has, and Joe gets back in the ring and hits him with the Muscle Buster. Hook gets back to his feet, and Joe gets back in the ring again before "Hangman" Adam Page suddenly shows up and chases Joe out of the ring. Swerve Strickland and Prince Nana is also seen in the crowd staring down Joe as he leaves. "Hangman" Adam Page then helps Hook back up before he and Swerve stare each other down.
Axiom and Apollo Crews beat Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams after Apollo counters Nothing But Net with a roll-up.
We see Tony D'Angelo and Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo at the bridge. D'Angelo says the bridge represents a beginning and sometimes the end. He says Stacks grew up a lot this year and proved himself, but mentions his failure with Dijak. Stacks says he is loyal to the end, then tells D'Angelo to do what must be done. D'Angelo puts his hand on Stacks' shoulder and says his time as a soldier is over and that it is time for him to become the underboss. He then gives him a new jacket with the D'Angelo family crest, then they both walk off.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Tiffany Stratton. We see footage from last night of Tiffany Stratton being unable to open her dressing room only to find out Indi Hartwell is inside. Indi Hartwell removes the sign and replaces it with one saying "NXT Women's Locker Room" before telling her to dress somewhere else in response to her calling the women's division "pigs" and shutting the door. Tiffany is offended by the footage, Indi's wardrobe and the women's division, and says she is the only superstar in the women's division.
Toxic Attraction (Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne) head to the ring. Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne say "We told you so!" and that they would be the winners of the women's battle royal, and that this is exactly what they became. Jacy then says the best part was watching everyone's minds explode when they both won at the same time after they both tried to eliminate each other, then Jacy says that they are a team at the end of the day and that they do anything together. Gigi says there is no rift between them and that their vengeance tour is in full effect, and Jacy says Roxanne Perez will regret the day she became NXT Women's Champion when they beat her for the belt. Lyra Vakyria shows up and says all she hears are toxic crows demanding to be heard, then says that Roxanne should be flying to Vengeance Day and that she will soon get her opportunity, as she does not see a champion in Gigi or Jacy. Jacy says Lyra will learn they run things around here and Gigi says she is not taking any of their shine, but Lyra says she only sees two women who know they cannot beat Roxanne by themselves and that they have to do it together. Toxic Attraction attack Lyra, but they soon retreat when Roxanne Perez run into the ring.
Backstage, The Creed Brothers (Julius and Brutus Creed) argue over who gets their hands on Jinder Mahal next. Ivy Nile and Tatum Paxley show up, and Ivy Nile tells The Creed Brothers to grow a set and focus on being tag team champions again instead of petty rivalries.
We hear from Stevie Turner, who gives her reactions to last week's women's battle royal before stating that she is coming to NXT soon.
Sol Ruca beats Alba Fyre following the distraction from Isla Dawn.
We hear from Dijak, who says that Wes Lee is next on the docket after dealing with Tony D'Angelo. He says he is here to collect punitive damages, not make friends, and he plans to fill his bag with championship gold. He says that he knows Wes Lee will not give up the North American Championship and that he will take it from him, and says that in eighteen days, it will be "Vengeance Day."
In backstage footage from earlier today, Vic Joseph interviews Grayson Waller. Grayson says last week should have been the day he saved NXT, and while Bron Breakker has gone through everyone in his path, he could not beat him. He says Breakker is everything he knew he would be, and he knew what he was going to do. He then says the one thing that was not in control of - the ropes - cost him, and because the ring crew could not do their jobs, he could not do his job of becoming NXT Champion. Grayson gives credit to Breakker for taking a knee to the face, but the next thing he knew, he fell off the ropes and Breakker won by count-out. He says he does not feel like a loser, because Breakker was lying half-dead in the ring, and produces his own NXT Championship belt. When told about his steel cage rematch for the real NXT Championship, Grayson says he does not care what gets broken because he will beat Bron Breakker for the NXT Championship.
Backstage, Alba Fyre is threatening a referee with her baseball bat. Katana Chance and Kayden Carter have to get Alba Fyre to calm down, and Alba Fyre says she does not know what is going on before saying she might as well focus her sights on them. Kayden is amazed that Alba Fyre would react like this, then Katana says they will face anyone, yet Alba does not have a tag team partner. Alba says she does not need one.
Tyler Bate returns to NXT tonight!
Gallus (Mark Coffey and Wolfgang) beat Josh Briggs and Brooks Jensen. During the match, Brooks Jensen is slammed onto exposed concrete on the outside, and medical staff have to help him up near the end of the match while Fallon Henley and Kiana James check on him.
Backstage, as Thea Hail is nervous about her match Andre Chase confronts Duke Hudson about hidden camera footage of a conversation he had with another Chase U student. Thea would rather they focus on her match for the time being.
Backstage, Brooks Jensen is checked on in the trainer's room. Fallon Henley shows up angry that Brooks Jensen has a relationship with Kiana James, and says that she is using him. She says that when Kiana breaks his heart, she will not be there to pick up the pieces.
Thea Hail beats Valentina Feroz. During the match, Elektra Lopez shows up, and near the end of the match, she hands brass knuckles to Feroz. Feroz refuses to use them and hands them to the referee, but Thea Hail drives her head-first into the mat for the win.
Backstage, Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams are met by Apollo Crews, who implies that he is coming to the barber shop that Carmelo and Trick go to.
It is announced that Ring of Honor legend and independent wrestler Jay Briscoe has passed away on WWE programming. (Jay Briscoe passed away in a car accident in Laurel, Delaware at 5:30 PM local time.)
Backstage, Elektra Lopez asks Valentina Feroz why she did not accept her help. She says that she has to fight to win and for respect, and that she has learned that she has had to stand on her own and do what it takes after being let down by men. She also says that she does watch she preaches and tells Feroz to watch her match next week.
The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) head to the ring. Kofi says that they are done with Pretty Deadly (Kit Wilson and Elton Prince), then Woods asks who they will go up against at Vengeance Day. Kofi says they will go after Gallus (Mark Coffey and Wolfgang), the winners of the recent tag team gauntlet match. Suddenly, Pretty Deadly show up. Elton Prince says The New Day are embarrassing themselves talking nonsense, and Kit Wilson says that this is not funny to them. Woods says otherwise, and Kofi says it is funny that Pretty Deadly lost the gauntlet match. Elton Prince says says they have been jumping through hoops for a month, and Kit Wilson says that Pretty Deadly are the righteous number one contenders for the NXT tag titles when Gallus shows up. Wolfgang says that Pretty Deadly are not worthy of a title shot, and Kit Wilson says that Gallus was not even supposed to be in the match. Mark Coffey says everyone's chances are done because Gallus is back on top, and Wolfgang says that after they are done with Pretty Deadly, The New Day are next. Xavier Woods tells Mark Coffey that The New Day are ready for a fight when Gallus is, then Pretty Deadly attack both teams only to get outnumbered and overpowered before Gallus and The New Day goa at it. Officials have to restore order.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Roxanne Perez and Lyra Valkyria. Roxanne says she and Lyra are bound by a common enemy. She says that Toxic Attraction has made her life miserable, and she was not going to let that happen to Lyra. Lyra says she usually flies around, but she will make an exception, as Roxanne was there for her and she will be there for Roxanne. Javier Bernal then shows up with a guitar, but nobody is interesting in hearing him perform.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Vic Joseph interviews Bron Breakker. Bron Breakker says he did not his match from last week to end the way it did and that he did not get to beat Grayson Waller like he wanted, and gives Grayson Waller credit for that roll into the knee to the face. He says that there will be no doubt who the winner is at Vengeance Day, and that he could not be more excited about fighting Grayson Waller in a steel cage because it is just him and Grayson and that he will beat Grayson in the middle of the ring. Breakker admits that Grayson Waller is the best trash-talker in NXT regarding Grayson's own championship belt and that Grayson is a disgrace, and that he will be leaving Vengeance Day as the definitive winner and the NXT Champion.
Javier Bernal is in the ring with a guitar and a mic stand. As he performs, Tyler Bate shows up.
Tyler Bate beats Javier Bernal.
Backstage, Josh Briggs and Brooks Jensen are met by Fallon Henley. Fallon apologizes for what she said to Brooks and that she is making it up to Kiana James by having a tag team match with her before the three leave for drinks.
Roxanne Perez and Lyra Valkyria beat Toxic Attraction (Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne). During the match, Cora Jade shows up and shoves Lyra Valkyria off the top rope, and Lyra Valkyria goes after Cora Jade and fights her all the way to the back. Despite being outnumbered, Roxanne gets the win after she ducks a kick meant for her and Jacy Jayne ends up inadvertently kicking Gigi Dolin in the face.
The Jericho Appreciation Society (Sammy Guevara and Daniel Garcia) beats Brian Cook and Deimos.
Before the next match, Ari Daivari says that The Jericho Appreciation Society has been kicking Action Andretti's ass, and proposes that Andretti lay down so he can beat him, and in return, The Trust Busters (Ari Daivari, will have his back and the Society will leave him alone for good. Andretii tells Daivari that he is right and that it has been stressful, then says this is what he needs to do. Andretti lays down, and when Daivari goes for the pin, Andretti counters with an inside cradle. Daivari kicks out at two.
Action Andretti beats Ari Daivari.
Powerhouse Hobbs beats Jaiden.
The Jericho Appreciation Society ("Daddy Magic" Matt Menard and "Cool Hand" Angelo Parker) beat Midnight Heat ("Rockin' Ricky Gibson and "Precious" Eddie Pearl).
The Blackpool Combat Club (Claudio Castagnoli and Wheeler Yuta) beat The Butcher and the Blade.
Becky Lynch heads to the ring to start tonight's show. She says that with two weeks until Royal Rumble, the Raw women's division has never been hotter and it is all because of her. Becky says it is so hot that Superstars from the past are also showing up at the women's Royal Rumble, saying they need her because she makes stars. Becky says that while people were not clamoring for it, she got Doudrop a title shot and made Doudrop better before beating her, then admits that she loves Doudrop's tenacity before saying that someone like her will never be a champion while she is in the company. Doudrop shows up and says she got the title shot on herself, then tells Becky to stay out of her way, but as Becky tells her that she got her that title shot last week and can win again if she just follows her lead, Bianca Belair shows up. Bianca says Becky may see herself as the "greatest of all time," but you cannot spell "greatest" without "EST," and that she is "the EST." She also says Doudrop is only facing Becky because Becky is afraid of her. She then says that Becky has only bought herself some time, as she is entering the women's Royal Rumble and winning to to main event WrestleMania again. Suddenly, Liv Morgan shows up. Liv says she and Bianca may be a tag team tonight, she is also entering the women's Royal Rumble and winning it. She then says that for this to happen, she has to outlast Bianca. Suddenly, Doudrop snores, then demands a referee so they can have their match.
Becky Lynch and Doudrop beat Bianca Belair and Liv Morgan after squashing Becky Lynch and Liv Morgan with a low cross body. After the match, Doudrop hits Becky with a Banzai Drop.
Backstage, Reggie and Dana Brooke ask Edge and Beth Phoenix for advice in Reggie's match, to which Edge says he has no chance but wishes him luck anyway. Beth tells Dana that she is happy to see her wear gold after busting her butt in WWE for years. Edge and Dana then meet Damian Priest, who picks Edge's brain about the Royal Rumble match. Edge says cardio and continuing to do what he does is the most important thing. Suddenly, Beth Phoenix gets a note from Maryse, who wants to meet her face-to-face. After Edge tells Beth that he has her back and they both leave, Kevin Owens shows up and tells Damian Priest that they look forward to their match tonight. Damian refuses to believe him, but Owens insists he looks forward to a good, clean match.
Elimination Chamber is live on Peacock and WWE Network on February 19th from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
It's time for The Kevin Owens Show. Tonight's guest is Seth "Freakin'" Rollins. Owens thanks Rollins for accepting the invitation to his show, then admits he admires Rollins so much as well as the suits that he wears before giving him kudos for berating Roman Reigns by telling him he was the man who set the table. Rollins says that Roman is rattled and scared of him, saying that he is playing chess while Roman is playing checkers and that taking the Universal Championship and turning it back from blue to red will be like taking candy from a baby. Rollins says that he can get rid of Brock Lesnar and also get rid of Bobby Lashley tonight. Owens then announces that he is officially declaring himself for the men's Royal Rumble match this year. Owens then says that when he wins, he and Rollins will give everyone the greatest WrestleMania main event of all time. Suddenly, Damian Priest shows up. Damian Priest calls Rollins and Owens "delusional idiots" and says nobody believes that Rollins can beat Roman at Royal Rumble and that nobody believes Owens will win the men's Royal Rumble match before telling them not to wake his dark side up. He also announces that he has gotten with WWE officials Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville, and that his and Owens' match starts right now.
Veer Mahaan is coming to Raw.
Kevin Owens beats Damian Priest after feigning a knee injury, ending Damian Priest's undefeated streak on the main roster.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Nikki A.S.H., who says that she stands on her own and that Rhea Ripley should be down and out after last week, saying she is the one who broke up their team and flushed their friendship down the toilet. She says that she is the closest the people of Tulsa, Oklahoma have to a hero, and says that "almost superheroes" have to do things normal people do not understand and that Rhea will realize she needs someone like her whether she realizes it or not.
Alpha Academy (Chad Gable and Otis) show up for their graduation ceremony. After mocking the intelligence of the fans in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Chad Gable celebrates Otis passing his final exam by beating RK-Bro and earning the WWE Raw Tag Team Championships, and says it is his honor to present Otis with an Alpha Academy diploma. Otis says Chad Gable has helped him reach his full potential, then warns the rest of the locker room to expect pure carnage if they mess with them. Suddenly, Matt Riddle shows up, also in a cap and gown. Riddle says he had to make a very special speech when he got here, and as he reads a speech he wrote on a piece of paper at the breakfast buffet, Gable wants to know why Riddle is here. When Gable says Riddle is here for a rematch, Gable says Riddle cannot define the rematch before Riddle unintentionally proves him right before saying it is a good idea. Gable says he will give Riddle a chance at a rematch if he and Randy Orton can beat them in a series of academic tests. When Riddle entertains the idea, Otis rips off his cap and gown and confronts Riddle, then Orton shows up and hits Gable with an RKO. Riddle attacks Otis from behind, then Orton puts on Otis' cap and gown before telling Alpha Academy "We accept."
Backstage, Austin Theory meets with Vince McMahon, who wants Austin to beat Finn Balor and then beat him up, or else he will beat Austin Theory up and send the resulting selfie to Austin Theory's mom.
WWE acknowledges Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Austin Theory beats Finn Balor. After the match, Austin Theory proceeds to beat Finn Balor up again and hits him with another ATL.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Rhea Ripley, who says that she never intended to break up her friendship with Nikki A.S.H., but Nikki made up her mind, and if Nikki thinks her the villain, then she is more delusional than she thought. Tonight, she is going to show Nikki exactly who she is.
Before the next match, Carmella and Queen Zelina show up. Carmella says everything they predicted about Rhea Ripley and Nikki A.S.H. came true, and Zelina fancies herself as Rhea's godmother after giving Rhea Ripley a bit of a push. Carmella says Rhea Ripley was an "almost threat" with an "almost superhero," then Zelina says Rhea Ripley will find someone else to leech off of as she does not have what it takes to be champion on her own. Nikki A.S.H. attacks Rhea Ripley before the bell can ring, and she slams Rhea Ripley into the ring steps.
Backstage, Dana and Reggie come up with strategies against Omos as R-Truth, Tamina, Akira Tozawa and a referee eat popcorn and watch.
Omos beats Reggie. During the match, Akira Tozawa, R-Truth and Tamina run into the ring, but Omos tosses Tozawa and Truth out before staring down Tamina. Reggie dives at Omos, but Omos hits him with a choke bomb for the win.
Maryse heads to the ring. Maryse says that The Miz is not here and has a very big mouth that agrees to things without his permission, and asks "The Glamazon" Beth Phoenix to head to the ring so they can talk. Beth shows up with Edge, and Maryse says she wants their match at Royal Rumble cancelled, saying nobody wants it and that she and Beth have been through a lot together and have paved the way for today's female Superstars, and that they should be on the same team. Beth tells Maryse to shut up, saying she and the fans are not buying it and that Maryse is taking acting lessons from The Miz. She says their match is not off, because she is not passing up teaming up with Edge in a match or Glam Slamming Maryse through the canvas. Beth then proposes they give the fans a preview, then gets in the ring with Maryse before The Miz shows up. Edge beats up Miz, but Maryse hits Beth with her purse before running off. Miz and Maryse run to the stage, where Maryse reveals she had a brick in her purse.
Backstage, we hear from The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford). They declare that they will be tossing bodies in the men's Royal Rumble match when Rey and Dominik Mysterio show up happy to be part of their team tonight and to be part of the men's Royal Rumble.
The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford), Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio The Dirty Dawgs (Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode), Apollo Crews and Commander Azeez in an eight-man tag match. After the match, Rey and Dominik Mysterio toss The Street Profits over the top rope before Rey does the same to Dominik.
We see a video package for Bobby Lashley vs. Brock Lesnar for the WWE Championship at Royal Rumble.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews The Miz and Maryse. The Miz brags about Maryse sending Beth Phoenix to a local medical facility, then says he will throw the most extravangant birthday party for Maryse before the two of them make out.
We see Alexa Bliss with a therapist again. The therapist does word association with Alexa, and every word is answered with the word "Lilly" until the word "imaginary" is reached. An angry Alexa stands up, and the therapist leaves. Alexa then sits back down.
Bobby Lashley vs. Seth Rollins ends with The Hurt Business (Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander) pulling Lashley out of the ring and attacking him. Lashley gets the last word with a double suplex on The Hurt Business before sending both of them into the ring post and Spearing Shelton Benjamin through the barricade. Meanwhile, The Usos show up from out of the crowd and superkick Rollins in the ring.
This week on Raw Talk: Matt Riddle! Rhea Ripley! Omos!
Kane shows up to start tonight's show. He says that the Royal Rumble - his favorite event of the year - is nine days away, and thirty lost souls will put their minds, bodies and souls on the line for the opportunity of a lifetime: the chance to compete at WrestleMania. He says that the match puts one through hell, but the reward is immortality. He talks about holding the record for most eliminations ever, and says he knows the importance of achieving this immortality. Kane also talks about how the hope of those he eliminates disappears when their feet hit the ground because of him, and admits that it was a lot of fun. Suddenly, Bray Wyatt shows up on the TitanTron. Bray is surprised to see Kane, then shames him for finding fun in another person's misery and tells him to take the time to say he is sorry before saying that he is glad to see him. Bray then announces that Ramblin' Rabbit is alive, well and recovering nicely, then we see Rambin' Rabbit on an IV feed briefly before trying to dissuade Kane away from taking part in the men's Royal Rumble match. Bray then realizes he has Kane's picture on the wall, then remembers that The Fiend and Kane squared off in the ring. Bray then says he will never forgive Kane, and neither will The Fiend. The lights go out, and when they come back on, Kane is out of the ring, but The Fiend comes out from underneath it. Kane turns around and looks at The Fiend, unperturbed, and asks "What took you so long?" All of a sudden, The Fiend is hit with a running drop kick by Daniel Bryan, and The Fiend tries to escape back underneath the ring. The Fiend escapes, but Daniel Bryan pulls out a few of The Fiend's dreadlocks in the process. Kane then partakes in "Yes!" chants along with Daniel Bryan in the ring.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Daniel Bryan, who says that The Fiend is only best at disappearing and running away, and that there is a way to beat someone who disappears every time he is in trouble. He admits it is not a good or smart idea, and proposes a Strap Match against The Fiend where both men go to war until one man wins. He knows that The Fiend will tear him apart, but he is done with his mind games and running. He says that The Fiend changed him, but at Royal Rumble, he will change The Fiend and win the WWE Universal Championship.
John Morrison beats Big E in his first WWE match in over eight years after taking Kofi Kingston out from the top rope and The Miz assists Morrison avoid Big E afterwards.
It is announced that if Roman Reigns beats Robert Roode tonight, he will be able to pick his stipulation for his match against King Corbin at Royal Rumble; if Roode wins, Corbin will be able to pick the stipulation for the match instead.
Backstage, The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) talk with Roman Reigns, who says that they will find out what stipulation he will pick for his match against King Corbin at Royal Rumble like everyone will after he wins tonight against Robert Roode. Roman then asks The Usos if they are ready for tonight themselves.
The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) beat The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder).
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder). The Revival says it is time that they make a change after the company seems not to care about them, then Lacey Evans and Bayley are seen brawling while a seemingly hurt Sasha Banks is sitting on the floor. Referees have to break the brawl up.
Backstage, Mandy Rose tells Sonya Deville that she is excited for her match tonight. Sonya asks if Otis should be part of her match tonight, and says that she gets what is going on. Mandy says he will ask Otis if he wants to join in.
Backstage, Bayley tells an injured Sasha Banks that she will turn Lacey Evans into a stay-at-home mom if she sees her again. Sasha says she has been working hard and can use the rest. Suddenly, Adam Pearce - one of the officials - shows up and puts Bayley in Sasha's place for the match. The match is non-title, but the match is still official and it is next.
Lacey Evans beats Bayley.
Backstage, Shorty G says that Sheamus will not get into his head with his mind games, for he has learned that when you accept and embrace who you are, you have won the hardest battle. As Shorty G says he will teach Sheamus that lesson, Sheamus shows up and tells him to keep his mouth shut or else he will kick his head up his shoulder. Shorty G takes Sheamus down and punches him until referees intervene. Sheamus is livid afterwards.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Braun Strowman, who is excited for the Royal Rumble as he declares himself for the match. He then says that he does not care what he has to do to get his opportunity at the WWE Intercontinental Championship anytime, any place.
Elias is in the ring. He says he has learned a lot about himself in the past year, and while he is the embodiment of WWE, he cannot do it on his own, and he needs the fans. He says there must be a truth that rings out from every voice in every arena if he is to go where he needs to go, then performs a song he calls "Walkin' in Greensboro." Before he can get started however, Shinsuke Nakamura, Cesrao and Sami Zayn interrupt him. Sami says what he has to say is far more important than Elias' song, that Shinsuke Nakamura does not back down from a fight and that Strowman is not getting a shot at the WWE Intercontinental Championship. Sami says that he calls the shots and that Strowman is not in the position to demand anything, especially with the Royal Rumble on the horizon, then lets Elias go back to his song. Elias stops Sami, saying he was writing a song as Sami was talking called "Sami Zayn Needs To Shut His Damn Mouth" before deciding to perform it. Sami stops Elias before he can even get that song started, then sics Cesaro on him to show what happens to "funny guys." Elias fights back against Cesaro, then Nakamura and Sami get involved until Braun Strowman shows up. Sami retreats as Strowman overpowers Cesaro and Nakamura.
WWE pays tribute to "Soul Man" Rocky Johnson.
Heavy Machinery (Tucker and Otis) show up in Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville's corner for the next match.
Alexa Bliss beats Sonya Deville with a schoolkid pin after Mandy Rose gets on the top rope only to be pushed off - and into the arms of Otis - by Nikki Cross.
Backstage, King Corbin and Dolph Ziggler meets with Robert Roode and compliments him on his plan from last week, and agree that Roode will get Roman Reigns back. Roode says he will put Roman through a table tonight and give Corbin his stipulation. Corbin says he wants a match where he can humiliate Roman and take him out of the Royal Rumble, then says none of it will be possible until Roode puts Roman through a table.
The Strap Match for the WWE Universal Championship between Daniel Bryan and "The Fiend' Bray Wyatt, Sheamus vs. Shorty G and Lacey Evans vs. Bayley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship are all official for Royal Rumble.
Roman Reigns beats Robert Roode in a Tables Match after The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) show up to counter the interference of King Corbin and Dolph Ziggler. As per pre-match stipulation, Roman Reigns earns the right to pick the stipulation for his match against King Corbin at Royal Rumble. After the match, Roman Reigns announces that his match with King Corbin at Royal Rumble will be a Falls Count Anywhere Match.
Tino Sabbatelli and Riddick Moss beat Heavy Machinery (Tucker Knight and Otis Dozovic) after Moss uses the top rope for leverage during a schoolboy pin.
We hear from The Undisputed Era (Adam Cole, Bobby Fish, Kyle O'Reilly). Adam Cole says NXT TakeOver is their event, and since they arrived, it has been about them, and for good reason. At Philadelphia, he will face Aleister Black in a Extreme Rules Match, and he will maim and embarrass him. Kyle O'Reilly says everyone wants the NXT tag team titles, but this is their regardless. Bobby Fish says everyone is competing for the right to step up and fall to them.
We see a video package chronicling the events leading to the Extreme Rules Match between Adam Cole and Aleister Black at NXT TakeOver: PhiladelphiaR, as well as some footage from the original ECW.
Roderick Strong beats Fabian Aichner with the Strong Hold. After the match, Strong says someone came looking for a fight, and his words are echoing in his head, for he feels the same way. He has gone through all the competition in his way just like him. He felt a force that he has never felt before, but he feels joy, because that is a force he wants to destroy. That force is Lars Sullivan.
We are re-introduced to TM61 - Nick Miller and Shane Thorne. TM61 talks about their mutual friendship, training at Harley Race's annual training camp, being recommended to WWE by Race, improving their skills in Japan and their path to NXT.
Next week: Part 2 of "Who is TM61?"
Lacey Evans beats Aliyah with a strong right hand. After the match, Lacey Evans talks about how it is time to get rid of the lowest scorns of societal trash, and says it is time a sophisticated, elegant woman cleaned house. She will start with Nikki Cross and Ember Moon. Suddenly, she is met by "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler. Lacey walks away, but Baszler walks into the ring and puts Aliyah in the Karafuda Clutch, and refuses to let go. Suddenly, Ember Moon runs out and goes after Baszler, but Baszler rolls out of the ring. Ember Moon then dares to get in the ring with her right now and try it with her. Baszler says she doesn't have her gear and that she'll do it for her title. Ember Moon tells her to name the time and place and bring her gear so she can beat her ass. Baszler says she'll meet her at NXT TakeOver: Philadelphia, and tells her not to forget the title. Ember Moon and the referee then check on Aliyah.
Christy St. Cloud interviews General Manager William Regal, who makes "The Queen of Baszler" Shayna Baszler and Ember Moon for the NXT Women's Championship official for NXT TakeOver: Philadelphia. Suddenly, Zelina Vega shows up and mentions how Johnny Gargano has no chance of beating Andrade "Cien" Almas. However, Velveteen Dream is more deserving of a title shot. She says that Johnny should put his title shot on the line against Velveteen Dream. Regal says he would advise Gargano not to do that, but Zelina Vega says he would, because Gargano would lose. But if Gargano wants a shot at Andrade "Cien" Almas, then they are happy to oblige.
We hear from No Way Jose. He says 2017 was quite the year, but 2018 will be his year...and the conga line starts next week.
Johnny Gargano shows up unannounced and asks for a microphone. He says he has just seen General Manager William Regal's conversation with Zelina Vega, and says he has heard what everyone has to say. He says Zelina Vega, Velveteen Dream and William Regal doubt his ability to beat Andrade "Cien" Almas. He is tired of being doubted and he is not a broken man, and says his position right now is no fluke. He says this is his time and opportunity, and no one will stop him. If Velveteen Dream wants him to put his opportunity on the line, he will do it next week. For the first time, Gargano knows exactly who he is: "Johnny Freakin' Wrestling," and he is the next NXT Champion.
The Authors of Pain (Akam and Rezar) beat Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) to become #1 contenders for the NXT Tag Team Championships at NXT TakeOver: Philadelphia.
Carmella and Cass head to a restaurant. Carmella mentions their move to Tampa, Florida.
Brie and Nikki drink some wine as they land in Napa Valley to see their Bellaridicci wine get bottled. Now that SummerSlam is done, Nikki cannot wait to focus on her business ventures.
At Raw in Brooklyn, New York, Carmella watches Cass' Street Fight against Enzo Amore. Suddenly, Cass lands awkwardly on his left leg when he tumbles out of the ring during the match. Carmella feels something is wrong, and her feeling is confirmed when Cass' left knee gives out.
Three days later, Cass finds out that his ACL has been torn, and that it will take as long as nine months to recover. Cass is devastated, as is Carmella.
At SmackDown Live, Lana talks to Natalya about her and Rusev's upcoming trip to Bulgaria for their one-year anniversary. Rusev talks about their hunt for a house in Bulgaria, as the price for a house is very affordable.
Brie, Nikki and Bryan head back to New York City to appear on E! Network. Nikki gets a call from her agent Blake, and Brie notices Nikki looking at her during the phone call. Nikki tells Brie that she may be booked for the next three months, as she has been offered a spot on Dancing With The Stars again. Brie tells Bryan, and Bryan congratulates her, but Nikki cleared their schedules so they can focus on their two businesses. It becomes clear that Nikki has a decision to make.
In Sofia, Bulgaria, Rusev and Lana are welcomed by Rusev's mother Slavka, and they are interviewed by local news media. Lana hopes Rusev will be more receptive when it comes to house hunting.
At Nattie's house, Nattie shares the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship with her parents. She feels there is more pressure on her than ever, as her father Jim "The Anvil" Neidhart was a tag team champion and her uncle Bret "The Hit Man" Hart was won every championship that there was at the time in WWE. (TJ is seen briefly near the end of this scene.)
Carmella has to do all the work with the help of two other people. Despite Cass' injury, Cass is still happy to be moving to Tampa, Florida and is confident everything will get done in a day.
In Sofia, Bulgaria, Lana and Rusev go looking for a new house. They find a very expansive house that is about 350 square meters with a big yard with a great view of the city. Lana loves it, but Rusev feels the yard is not big enough and that there is no way to keep any animals around. He is also concerned about the stairs in case they have children. Lana feels Rusev is being stubborn again.
In Tampa, Florida, Carmella and Cass move into their new home.
In New York City, New York, Brie and Bryan have a nice walk in the city. Brie feels a bit betrayed by Nikki for dropping business responsibilities for Dancing With The Stars and leaving her in full control of Birdiebee, but Bryan asks her to let Nikki do what she wants to do and to give herself some credit when it comes to running the businesses on her own.
In Sofia, Bulgaria, Rusev and Lana have breakfast with Rusev's family. Lana wants a mansion, but Rusev wants a house in the village. Lana learns that the responsibilities of a woman of the village are not all that cracked up to be, bt she is willing to do them, and makes a bet with Rusev if she can do them for three days, they are buying a mansion.
In Tampa, Florida, Carmella's sister Bree and her father Paul Van Dale come to visit. Cass reveals that he asked them to come to visit. Carmella loves her family, but she is overwhelmed with all that needs to be done. Paul Van Dale talks to Cass about how he used to wrestle in the WWE as an enhancement talent, and says Cass and Carmella being there has inspired him to try to come back to the WWE. Bree and Carmella see the conversation, but do not hear it, and Bree thinks Cass is asking their dad for his blessing in marriage.
In Sofia, Bulgaria, Lana and Rusev head to a farm in the village. She manages to herd the sheep into their pen and chop the wood with relative ease.
In Tampa, Florida, Natalya visits Carmella in her new home as Cass is at physical therapy. Natalya talks about the stress of being SmackDown Women's Champion, but Carmella tells her that WWE has faith in her and that she would not be champion if they did not. Carmella talks about what happened with the conversation with her sister as well as Cass' problems, as he is not happy and he is alone. Natalya says Carmella and Cass are just in a rough patch, aand that right now, they should live in the moment and enjoy what they have right now. Natalya feels she is giving the advice she should be giving herself.
In New York City, New York, Brie and Nikki head to Good Housekeeping for a review of Birdiebee and Bellaridicci. Nikki feels Brie has been acting weird since she was asked to appear on Dancing With The Stars, but she wants to prove that she can do what she needs to do for the business. Brie gives Nikki an "I'm sorry" gift for being angry with her for the Dancing With The Stars appearance, but she wants her to know she has her support. The gift is a pair of ballroom shoes. Brie tells Nikki to give it her all while she handles the businesses.
n Sofia, Bulgaria, Lana and Rusev head to a dairy farm for the final test: milking a cow. Lana has not milked a cow since she was a child, but she nails it. Rusev admits he has never milked a cow before even though he has told her in the past that he did it all the time. Lana says she is happy to win the bet - and win the mansion - but tells Rusev not to lie to her again.
Lana and Rusev take part in a traditional Bulgarian event that happens every fall, and Lana sees what village life means to Rusev. Lana and Rusev have a lot of fun, and Lana thanks Rusev for bringing her to Bulgaria. Lana wans the house in the village after all.
At SmackDown Live in Las Vegas, Nevada, Natalya defends the SmackDown Women's title against Naomi. Nattie enjoys her title reign, now that she knows that nobody can take the accomplishment of winning the title away from her.
