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.
The Death Riders (Claudio Castagnoli, PAC, Wheeler Yuta) retain the AEW World Trios Championships against Top Flight (Darius and Dante Martin) and AR Fox. After the match, Top Flight are attacked from behind by Cru (Lio Rush and Action Andretti), who then choke Top Flight with their necklaces as extra referees are called over to stop this.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Undisputed Kingdom (Adam Cole, Kyle O'Reilly, Roderick Strong). Adam Cole says he feels sick to his stomach and physically beat up, as he had Daniel Garcia beaten and that the time limit beat him. He says that next time, there will be no outside interference and no time limit and the TNT title will be his. Kyle O'Reilly mentions the lack of class within FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler), and Roderick Strong says they did not get back together to lose, especially to FTR, and says they will not be fooled a third time.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews "The Rainmaker" Kazuchika Okada, who brags about his recent successful title defenses against Buddy Matthews and Brody King, saying that he "put those dogs down" and "put those bitches to sleep."
Bandido beats Johnny TV. After the match, Bandido calls out Chris Jericho and demands that he return his brother Gravity's mask. The Learning Tree ("The Learning Tree" Chris Jericho, "The Redwood" Big Bill, "The Bad Apple" Bryan Keith) shows up, with Jericho carrying Gravity's mask. Jericho says it must be this way, as even after a generational career and one of the best careers in professional wrestling history, he must remind everyone that he can only be taken for granted for so long. Jericho says only so much can be taken from him before he takes back, and that he had to teach him and his entire family "a Learning Tree lesson" for trying to take the ROH World Championship from him. He says Bandido cannot have the mask back, as he wants him to remember the humiliation he felt when he took the mask, and that the only thing worse than losing the mask is putting it back on. Jericho then puts on Gravity's mask, and he can barely be heard as he asks Bandido if he is going to cry like his mother. Bandido punches Jericho in the face, then outsmarts The Learning Tree and yanks the mask off Jericho's face.
We hear from Megan Bayne, who says she has watched others fight for championships and glory, yet only she understands what it is like to be chosen by the heavens. He says that the women's division will soon know, and that All Elite Wrestling is her kingdom now. We then hear from "Timeless" Toni Storm, who asks who died and made Megan Bayne god, then says the Greek Gods have nothing on her before proclaiming that she will cut Megan Bayne's head off and brag about how good she is.
Harley Cameron beats Aminah Belmont.
Backstage, Lexy Nair interviews Don Callis. Don Callis that what he and "The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher have planned with eclipse anything anyone can fathom, then brings out Kyle Fletcher, since the fans want to see him. Fletcher says he is not laid up in a hospital bed like some people claim, and while his recent cage match has changed him, he is still destined to be the best of all time and that he will reveal what is next for him and The Don Callis Family next week on Dynamite.
Harley Cameron guests on commentary for the next match.
Komander and Hologram (now known as Los Titanes del Aire) beat La Faccion Ingobernables (Dralistico and The Beast Mortos). During the match, Harley Cameron leaves commentary, then Harleygram shows up at ringside. Near the end of the match, Dralistico tries and fails to use Alex Abrahantes as a human shield, and The Beast Mortos tosses Abrahantes to the side only to be seduced afterwards by Harleygram, which costs La Faccion Ingobernable the match.
Backstage, we hear from The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods), The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik), the team of Mustafa Ali and Mansoor, The Lucha House Party (Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado), the team of T-Bar and Mace, the team of Jinder Mahal and Veer, and the team of "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos prior to tonight's Tag Team Turmoil Match to decide #1 contenders for the WWE Raw Tag Team Championships.
RK-Bro (Randy Orton and Matt Riddle) head to the ring to start tonight's show. Orton talks about how MVP and Bobby Lashley failed to take the Raw tag team titles away from them due to Lashley's greed, then says they will see who in the tag team division deserves to be next in line to lose to them. Riddle proposes getting animal masks like Lucha House Party (Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado), sick jackets like Mansoor and Mustafa Ali's, going on a raid like The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) or having The New Day's (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) pancakes when Bobby Lashley and MVP show up. MVP tells Riddle to shut up, saying the fans lose IQ points when they hear Riddle rant before telling him to worry about Lashley ripping Orton's head off for last week's "cowardly" RKO. Lashley then says he looks to finish what they started and putting Orton down like the coward that he is tonight. Orton says it has been a long time since they last faced each other one-on-one, and accepts as long as it is for the WWE Championship. MVP whispers in Lashley's ear, then says that last week, Orton hit the RKO out of nowhere, but when Lashley repays the favor, it will be in front of him and it will be at Extreme Rules. Lashley also says he and MVP will get into the Tag Team Turmoil Match tonight as well and become a double champion, then The New Day show up. Kofi says he and Woods will be kicking off the Tag Team Turmoil Match right now, and Woods says he and Kofi will defy the odds tonight just like when he beat Lashley to become the Raw Tag Team Champions.
We get a closer look at The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik), courtesy of Progressive.
RK-Bro (Randy Orton and Matt Riddle) watch the next match from the commentary table.
The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) beat The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik), the team of Jinder Mahal and Veer, The Lucha House Party (Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado) and the team of T-Bar and Mace in a Tag Team Turmoil Match. However, the match ends prematurely due to controversy. During the match, Woods counters Feast Your Eyes from Mace into a schoolkid pin, and when Woods gets the win, T-Bar and Mace go on the attack. Mansoor and Mustafa Ali show up, and Mansoor confronts T-Bar and Mace for their actions. and Mustafa Ali runs to the ring only to get brutalized like The New Day. WWE officials Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce have to send in security and officials to stop T-Bar and Mace. During the commercial break, Sonya Deville gives both teams levelled by Mace and T-Bar time to recover and announces that the Tag Team Turmoil Match will finish tonight. It is also announced that Bobby Lashley and MVP are now officially in the Tag Team Turmoil Match.
Sheamus beats Drew McIntyre to become the #1 contender to the WWE United States Championship after grabbing the tights on a schoolkid pin after countering the Claymore Kick and after having his protective mask pulled off his face. After the match, McIntyre smacks Sheamus in the face with his own mask, then hits him with the Claymore Kick. After the match, Kevin Patrick interviews Damian Priest, who is laughing at what has happened to Sheamus. Priest says he has seen a lot of matches and even more fights, and tonight's match between McIntyre and Sheamus was a fight. He says that he expects no less from Sheamus at Extreme Rules and that he is going to enjoy it, because he has Sheamus' number and he will leave Sheamus lying on his back while he leaves as the champion.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Rhea Ripley and Nikki A.S.H. Ripley says her goal is to be champion, after seeing what Nikki has had to fight through, she is more determined. Nikki says they are not flying to any conclusions, and that they want to make this tandem work. Rhea Ripley says that hopefully tonight, the two of them will unleash - as Nikki A.S.H. calls it - "Super Brutality."
We get a closer look at Charlotte Flair, courtesy of Pizza Hut.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Charlotte Flair, who says that Nia Jax did not finish the job last week and that she is still standing, and that she will do what it takes to keep the WWE Raw Women's Championship. She says that while Nia Jax is not like most girls, she is one-of-a-kind, and that she will take the crown that Nia Jax wants to shove up her royal behind and bash her over the head with it.
Rhea Ripley and Nikki A.S.H. beat Natalya and Tamina in a WWE Women's Tag Team Championship Contender's Match to become #1 contenders to the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.
In footage from earlier today, John Morrison interviews Karrion Kross for Moist TV. When Morrison asks Kross what makes him tick, Kross thanks him for putting him on the show and says he wants to be described as a man who makes people's worst dreams a reality and that he plans on making him suffer. Morrison takes that as a euphemism of what happens when someone messes with him, and when Morrison asks Kross which championships he is gong for, Kross says he is going for all of them after he wiped Morrison out of existence.
Karrion Kross beats John Morrison with the Kross Jacket after beating down Morrison for squirting him with a Drip Stick.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Nia Jax, who says she would rather not waste her breath on Charlotte Flair and calls everything she says a defense mechanism and that she splattered her last week. She wishes Charlotte Flair good luck bashing her head in with a crown, because the crown is so far up her royal behind that she can't find it along with her dignity, which she also lost last week. She then says she will walk out WWE Raw Women's Champion.
Charlotte Flair retains the WWE Raw Women's Championship against Nia Jax. When the match begins, Shayna Baszler says she does not know if Nia Jax is capable of beating Charlotte Flair twice in a row like she has, and asks if Nia will either win or choke. That gets the match started with a brief brawl. Charlotte then tells Nia that she can kiss her ass, and when she tries to leave with the Raw Women's Championship, Baszler stands in her way, then Nia pulls her back into the ring. Near the end of the match, Baszler distracts Nia from the ring apron, allowing Charlotte to hit a top rope Natural Selection to retain. After the match, Alexa Bliss shows up on the TitanTron and invited Charlotte Flair to her playground and asks her to bring one of her robes so Lilly can try one on. Charlotte tells Alexa she is not cute and does not do cute, but Alexa warns Charlotte that Lilly has a lot of pent-up energy and that if she will not come to them, they will bring the playground to her. The lights go dark and the first few notes of "Rock A Bye Baby" play, and when they come back on, Alexa and Lilly are right next to Charlotte, who is not amused and has expected her to show up in the ring. Alexa points at the WWE Raw Women's Championship when Charlotte asks her what she wants, and Charlotte tells Alexa that the ring is her playground, not Alexa's.
We see a montage of Reggie's segments from the past few weeks.
Reggie retains the WWE 24/7 Championship against Akira Tozawa. After the match, Reggie dodges R-Truth and lays out multiple WWE Superstars, but is confronted by Drake Maverick! R-Truth nearly hits Drake Maverick, and Reggie runs away as R-Truth tells Maverick his timing is bad before chasing after Reggie again.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Doudrop, who says karma has a funny way of coming back around on people like Eva Marie and that she decided to capitalize on a rare moment where Eva Marie was in the ring. She then says she is not finished with Eva Marie just yet and that karma is just beginning to come back around, and that she is challenging her next week to a rematch that will be unforgettable compared to last time. She calls the "Eva-lution" an "Eva Delusion," and says it is time to usher in the "Doudrop-lution."
RK-Bro (Randy Orton and Matt Riddle) watch the next match from the commentary table.
The team of MVP and Bobby Lashley beats the team of Mustafa Ali and Mansoor, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) and the team of "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos in a Tag Team Turmoil Match to become #1 contenders after RK-Bro (Randy Orton and Matt Riddle) are laid out at ringside. After the match, Omos choke slams Lashley, then Orton hits Lashley with an RKO.
This week on Raw Talk: Damian Priest, Charlotte Flair and Karrion Kross!
Randy Orton returns for the first time in weeks to start tonight's show. Orton welcomes everyone to the show, then Matt Riddle arrives. Riddle tells Orton he missed him, then admits that at first, he thought he was hiding backstage. He then talks about how his step-father got lost buying some milk 25 years ago before declaring that he and Orton can team up again. Orton asks Riddle what makes him think he would team up again, then said they both had their matches, their shirts and their buzz on social media before stating he works better alone and that Riddle does not need his help. Orton goes on to say that they were a good team, then "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos show up. Styles makes fun of Riddle and calls what is going on in the ring "embarrassing," then tells him that Orton has used and abused everyone he has ever met and that Riddle will be no different. Styles then admits he never thought in a million years that a broken heart by Randy Orton would hurt Riddle the most, but Orton tells him to shut up, saying the only thing bigger than his ego is Omos. Styles takes offense to this, then tells Orton to fight him tonight so they can see who runs Raw. Orton accepts, saying he will beat him with the RKO before uppercutting him out of the ring. Orton tries to hit Omos with an RKO, but gets tossed out. Riddle tries to do it, but he gets choke slammed for it. Orton says to Riddle "That wasn't a smart move, was it?" before heading up the ramp to the back.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Baron Corbin, who says that he needs the money after having lost everything including his house, his wife and his kids. He says that he has received a phone call for Jinder Mahal for an opportunity to turn things around in a match with Drew McIntyre, and while he is not jumping for joy at the prospect of this match, if this turns things around, so be it.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Drew McIntyre, who says that Jinder Mahal and his goons are scared of him and that he has no sympathy towards Baron Corbin for being a terrible human being in general. McIntyre then talks about his late mother, Angela, whom his sword is named after, and says that karma is a bitch and that if Jinder pushes him too far, he will push Angela too far.
Drew McIntyre beats Baron Corbin. Near the end of the match, McIntyre readies the Claymore Kick, but Corbin begs for mercy, saying he has nothing. McIntyre tells Corbin he is absolutely pathetic, but he is starting to feel bad for him and says that if things are that bad, he will get him enough money to get him by for a while. McIntyre then proposes $200,000, then $300,000, then counts down from three and hits the Claymore Kick for the win. After the match, Jinder Mahal, Shanky and Veer - who have been watching the match from backstage - arrive, but McIntyre produces his sword Angela, making them think twice.
Backstage, Matt Riddle asks Randy Orton if they can still be friends and if he can at least be in his corner tonight. Orton declines.
Karrion Kross beats Jeff Hardy with the Kross Jacket. After the match, Kross attacks Jeff Hardy attack and puts him in the Kross Jacket again.
We see a video package of the recent history between Matt Riddle and Randy Orton.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Matt Riddle, who says that today has been an emotional rollercoaster after Orton's sound rejection and has no idea what to do, but if Orton wants to be alone, he has to let Orton be Orton. He then says that he has to do what he has to do, and that is ride.
Alexa Bliss beats Doudrop with a roll-up after Lilly winks at Doudrop.
Backstage, John Morrison talks with The Miz about Damian Priest, saying that Damian Priest is "dry." As Miz agrees, Sheamus says that he considers Morrison ridiculous in response to costing him his match against Damian Priest. Miz has to stop Morrison from squirting Sheamus with a Drip Stick, and Sheamus says he has bigger fish to fry with Ricochet. Sheamus then tells Morrison to get the job done against Damian Priest or else he will be in for one hell of a drought.
Sheamus beats Ricochet in a United States Championship Contender's Match after Ricochet goes down from hitting Sheamus in the forehead during a top rope move, allowing Sheamus to hit the Brogue Kick for the win. After the match, Damian Priest shows up and gets in Sheamus' face. This starts a staredown between the two men before Sheamus leaves. Suddenly, Sheamus charges at Priest for a cheap shot attempt as soon as Priest turns around, but Priest sees it coming and it does not work. As The Miz and John Morrison make their way to the ring, Sheamus argues with Morrison on his way to the back.
Damian Priest beats John Morrison after The Miz squirting Priest with a Drip Stick has no effect. After the match, Priest confronts The Miz, then punches Morrison. He then squirts Morrison with a few Drip Sticks before confronting The Miz and tricking him into standing on his feet. When it is revealed that Miz is no longer injured, Miz runs to the back. Priest then takes the microphone and talks about what Sheamus has been doing for the last few months, and Sheamus shows up to tell Damian to say what he has to say to his face. Priest calls out Sheamus for treating people like garbage and running his mouth, and says that he will deal with him just like every other bully in his life and face him for the United States Championship at SummerSlam. Sheamus says that Damian Priest talks a big game, then admits that he is a bully and likes it before saying he does not care about what anyone thinks before telling Damian he accepts the challenge and that he should prepare for the fight of his life. Afterwards, John Morrison rushes at Damian Priest from behind only to eat a big boot from Priest, and Priest tells Sheamus that this will be him at SummerSlam.
Backstage, Mansoor apologizes to Mustafa Ali and makes it up for him with a nice jacket. Mustafa says there is no need to apologize, then tells him that he will show how it is done and that all Mansoor needs to do is watch and learn.
T-Bar beats Mustafa Ali after Mace attacks Mansoor on the outside. After the match, T-Bar and Mace almost attack Ali again, but Mansoor fights them off and sends them both out of the ring.
As Reggie does a photo shoot, Akira Tozawa and R-Truth, disguised as a postal worker and a janitor respectively, try to attack Reggie and take the WWE 24/7 Championship back, but Reggie uses his agility to avoid them both.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos. Styles says he does not care if Randy Orton is back and has broken up his tag team with Matt Riddle, and says he will not be at the top of the mountain upon his return. Styles then says that Orton made a colossal mistake and that he and Omos will break him and put him back on the shelf for good.
MVP and Bobby Lashley head to the ring. After demanding respect for Lashley from the fans, MVP recounts the happenings of last week, then says that there have been some false narratives spun about Lashley accepting Goldberg's challenge. MVP mentions Goldberg's attack on him, saying Goldberg attacked him for no reason whatsoever and that he did not threaten Goldberg's son Gage, saying he acted in a humanitarian capacity. He says that he told Gage to dissuade his father from facing Lashley at SummerSlam, for Lashley would end his career if he continued, and says that by slandering him, you slander Lashley. MVP then compares being hit by Goldberg's Spear to being hit by a Mack truck, saying that his ribs are now hurt, and that the only thing that hurts more is a Spear from Lashley. He then says that he and Lashley are "fashionably violent" and that Goldberg should not involve his son in this matter, then says he cannot sneeze, cough or laugh before saying this is no laughing matter and tells Gage to dissuade Goldberg from facing Lashley. MVP says once again that if Goldberg continues, Lashley will destroy him like no one has destroyed him before and end his career, then says the upside of this will be that Goldberg can spend more time with his son Gage. Lashley then tells Goldberg not to let his son watch SummerSlam, for he will watch the destruction he will set upon Goldberg to the point that Gage will be embarrassed to have his last name. He then says that Goldberg is not next; he is done.
We see a video package chronicling the history between Nikki A.S.H. and Charlotte Flair.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Rhea Ripley, who admits that Nikki A.S.H. held her own last week and proved she is almost a superhero, then says that "almost" is not good enough to stay a champion and that she knows the difference between light and dark. She says that she doubts that Nikki has a dark side, and that she will walk away as Raw Women's Champion.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Nikki A.S.H., who says that being almost a superhero means she has to be prepared for things not going her way, and if one believes in themselves, they can achieve their dreams. She admits that tonight, her dream might turn into a nightmare, she has her "trusty night light:" her spirit and her drive. She says that she knew Charlotte Flair and Rhea Ripley would be dangerous, but she has beaten Charlotte and is almost positive she can beat Rhea. She also says that the odds might be stacked against her, but she will walk out of SummerSlam as Raw Women's Champion.
Nikki A.S.H. beats Rhea Ripley by disqualification after Charlotte Flair shows up and shoves her off the top rope before attacking both Nikki and Rhea, hitting Rhea with the Natural Selection and holding up the Raw Women's Championship afterwards.
We see Elias strum his guitar near a campfire before tossing it in. He then says that WWE stood for "Walk With Elias," but Elias is dead.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Charlotte Flair, who says that as she watched Nikki A.S.H. and Rhea Ripley, she found a way to throw salt into some wounds, and says that if Rhea and Nikki were on her level, they would have seen her coming. She says that one loss does not open her up to heavy criticism, and that she is the most decorated woman in WWE. Charlotte says that while others can steal the opportunities that she has created, she will walk out of SummerSlam as Raw Women's Champion.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Randy Orton, who says that he works better alone and that he will beat "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles tonight all by himself.
We get a closer look at Randy Orton, courtesy of Sonic Drive-In.
Randy Orton beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles. During the match, Omos drags Styles to the corner as Orton goes for the RKO, and Orton dares Omos to get in the ring and fight him. Shortly after this, Matt Riddle runs in and goes for a sleeper on Omos, who rams him into the ring post to break the hold. As Styles goes for a Phenomenal Forearm, Orton counters with an RKO to win the match. After the match, Orton yells at Riddle for helping him, then refuses to give him a hug. Riddle asks Orton to reconsider and to listen to the people, who chant "R-K-Bro." Orton and Riddle hug, then Riddle raises Orton's hand. Suddenly, Orton hits him with the RKO.
John Cena heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Cena says he has missed WWE and the fans, and says that he loves the confusion, the chaos and the fact that everyone is here and loud. He says that the fans have always been the biggest star in WWE is the fans, and that tonight is definitely loud and electric, then says he will wear the Peacemaker outfit to the Suicide Squad premiere and that he owes the fans an explanation for returning last night. He says that it is not just the fans that brought him back, but also Roman Reigns, and that he is here for the WWE Universal Championship at SummerSlam at Legions Field in Las Vegas, Nevada. Cena then says he could talk about the pomp and circumstance of SummerSlam or a history-making 17th world title reign, but says he is going for the title because Roman Reigns "is an asshole" and needs to be knocked down a peg. He says "this pathetic Roman Reigns experience" has gone on long enough, and that Roman is not as over as he says he is. He says that if one is good, they say it, but if you're great, the fans say it. He then tells Roman Reigns that he will see him on SmackDown, then Matt Riddle shows up. Cena says he finally gets it, then both he and Riddle say "Bro!" to each other.
Matt Riddle and The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) beat "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Omos and John Morrison after Matt Riddle squirts Omos with a Drip Stick. Omos thinks that The Miz did this and goes after him, and as Morrison is keeping Omos from attacking Miz, Omos shoves Morrison back into the ring, leaving Styles pre-occupied with Oomos and allowing The Viking Raiders to hit Morrison with the Viking Experience for the win.
We hear from Jaxson Ryker, who simply says "Wait 'til you see what I do to Elias tonight."
Elias is in the ring. Suddenly, Jaxson Ryker shows up on the TitanTron, saying that people are sick and tired of Elias introducing himself over and over again, and after tonight, the words "Hello, I am Elias" will never be heard again.
Jaxson Ryker beats Elias in a Symphony of Destruction Match with a Superplex from the outside onto a table.
Backstage, WWE officials Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville meet with Mansoor when Mustafa Ali shows up. When Mustafa Ali hears that he is in a tag team match, he is confused, but Mansoor tells him he was right. Mustafa Ali agrees to team up with Mansoor just once, then he and Mansoor leave before Sheamus shows up irritated about Humberto Carrillo getting a United States Championship match. Sonya puts Sheamus in another match with Humberto Carrillo, and if Humberto wins, he gets another opportunity at the United States Championship. Sheamus says that Humberto will be wearing a mask like his after the match.
Charlotte Flair heads to the ring. Charlotte says that she is proud to stand in the ring as Raw Women's Champion, and says that while the last year-and-a-half has not been kind, with adversity comes opportunity. She says that Rhea Ripley is an opportunist, and says that the difference between an opportunist and an opportunity is that Rhea Ripley has to take pages from a book that she wrote. Charlotte then she received a lot of congratulations after winning last night, then mentions that she is the only 11-time women's champion (not counting the NXT Women's or WWE Womens' tag titles) in WWE. As Charlotte continues to speak, she is soon interrupted by Rhea Ripley. Rhea tells Charlotte that if she thinks she can beat her any day of the week, then she can face her tonight, but Charlotte says that as much as she would like to finish the job, she is the champion and she declines. WWE officials Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce show up and congratulate Charlotte, then repeat Charlotte's claims and puts Charlotte and Rhea in a rematch for the WWE Raw Women's Championship. Charlotte then kicks a high heel into Rhea Ripley's face, kicks Rhea Ripley in her hurt knee, then runs away.
Tamina and Natalya beat Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler after the distraction by Reginald backfires. After the match, Shayna Baszler says that she is sick of what is going on, and says it is either her or Reginald. Nia Jax headbutts Reginald, and she and Shayna leave without him. Afterwards, Akira Tozawa runs into the ring while being chased by a bunch of Superstars, but soon meets Reginald. Reginald then beats Akira Tozawa and becomes WWE 24/7 Champion. After this, Reginald soars over the other Superstars and backflips to the stage.
Karrion Kross debuts on Raw tonight!
Sheamus beats Humberto Carrillo in a Champion Contendership Match with a headbutt involving his facemask followed by the Brogue Kick. (Had Humberto Carrillo won, he would have earned a shot at the WWE United States Championship.)
Bobby Lashley and MVP head to the ring, and Lashley talks about his win last night. MVP then says it has been decades since Dallas, Texas has seen a winner before saying that Lashley made a statement at the expense of Kofi Kingston. He talks about how Kofi Kingston said that MVP made Bobby Lashley soft and lose his edge with the women and the champagne, then says Kofi was right and apologizes to Lashley, taking responsibility for that before saying it all lit a fire under Lashley. He then says that anyone who faces Lashley for the WWE Championship will face utter annihilation and devastation, as the window of vulnerability in Lashley is gone forever and nobody can take the WWE Championship from him. MVP then says that he and Lashley are going back to business, saying there is "no more bullshit," then Lashley asks who will accept his open challenge. The open challenge is answered by Keith Lee, who has not been seen on Raw in months.
Bobby Lashley beats Keith Lee. After the match, Goldberg shows up and screams "I'm next!" at Lashley, and MVP has to hold Lashley back.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews MVP and Bobby Lashley. MVP says that they will not dignify Goldberg's sudden appearance and behavior with a response.
Jinder Mahal, Veer and Shanky are in the ring. Jinder says today is his birthday, and that Drew McIntyre is not Mr. Money In The Bank. He says that McIntyre took opportunities from him, and that he took one from him. He says that McIntyre is smart, but karma always comes around, and Drew McIntyre will never have another championship opportunity as long as Bobby Lashley is WWE Champion. As Shanky sings "Happy Birthday" to Jinder Mahal, Jinder is hit from behind with a chair by McIntyre. Veer also gets hit with a chair, and Shanks begs McIntyre before getting hit with it so much that the chair breaks. McIntyre then grabs another chair and hits Shanky with it twenty times.
We hear from Karrion Kross, who says that wherever time is told, in the end, everybody pays the toll. He says he has kept good on his word, and that one will suffer. He says that Doomsday is coming, and God help the obstacles who will be in his path.
Jeff Hardy beats Karrion Kross after using the ropes for leverage. Before the match, Jeff Hardy comes out to "No More Words" since he left WWE in 2009. After the match, Karrion Kross tells Kevin Patrick that Jeff Hardy has just made the biggest mistake of his life, because in the end, everyone will fall and pray.
It's time for Alexa's Playground. Alexa Bliss says she is a little sore today, but that is okay, for her special guest tonight is Lilly. Suddenly, Eva Marie and Doudrop show up, but Alexa ignores Eva. Alexa warns Eva not to be mean to Lilly, but Eva teases tossing Lilly in the trash. Alexa then proposes Doudrop in time out just to see what Eva Marie can do on her own without help, but Eva says she has had enough and leaves. Eva then mysteriously trips, and when she and Doudrop leave, Alexa says "Whoops! Didn't see that before!" before laughing.
Next week: The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos for the WWE Raw Tag Team Championships!
Rhea Ripley beats Charlotte Flair by disqualification after Charlotte Flair tries to head to the back and nails Rhea Ripley with the WWE Raw Women's Championship as she goes after her. After the match, both women brawl, but as this goes on, Nikki A.S.H. shows up and cashes in her Money In The Bank Contract. Nikki goes up the top rope and hits the cross body to win the WWE Raw Women's Championship.
Raw Talk: Drew McIntyre is now focused on Jinder Mahal.
Xavier Woods beats Bobby Lashley for the upset victory with an inside cradle.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews MVP and says that Bobby Lashley has left the building. MVP says that Bobby Lashley had to blow off some steam after a rough evening and says he will be on The VIP Lounge later this evening.
In footage from earlier today, Jinder Mahal arrives on his custom-built motorcycle and admires Drew McIntyre's sword.
We hear from Alexa Bliss, who is excited for tonight's match and the women's Money In The Bank Ladder Match. As she says she could have some fun with the Money In The Bank contract, Eva Marie asks Alexa when she and Doudrop will be introduced. Alexa admires Doudrop's name, then Eva Marie speaks for Doudrop by saying that Doudrop's time on Raw is "Eva-lutionary." Eva Marie says that she is a star and not "an added bonus" when Alexa says that only Doudrop was invited. Eva Marie says this will be the last time she says that this the last time she steps into a dirty playground, then she and Doudrop leave. Doudrop waves goodbye on the way out.
Jinder Mahal, Shanky and Veer head to the ring. Mahal says he may have taken things too far with Drew McIntyre, but he says that Drew McIntyre have taken opportunities from him. Jinder decides to become the bigger man, apologize to McIntyre and return his family heirloom to him. McIntyre shows up on the TitanTron, however, and calls Jinder a liar before telling him to get to the point. Jinder asks McIntyre to think of everything they have been through, then says that he knew this would happen and announces that he has gotten it refinished. They then reveal that the sword has been broken in half. McIntyre then says he knew this would happen before telling Jinder that the sword he has is a replica before pulling out the real sword. He then says there is no way that Jinder's motorcycle is a replica. McIntyre pulls out the tailpipe and smashes the rear view mirror, then start tearing the bike apart piece by piece with his bare hands before saying it's nothing elbow grease cannot fix and kicking the bike down.
Backstage, Matt Riddle meets with Nikki Cross, who has to explain she is "almost a superhero" when Riddle asks Cross why she can't fly up the ladder on Sunday.
Nikki Cross (now known officially as Nikki A.S.H.) beats Asuka, Alexa Bliss and Naomi in a Fatal 4-Way Match. During the match, Eva Marie and Doudrop show up to watch the match from the ramp. This leads to Alexa Bliss approaching Eva Marie and screaming at her, and Doudrop attacks Alexa Bliss and throws her through the barricade. When Eva Marie looks over the barricade, however, Alexa Bliss is nowhere to be seen.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik). Ivar says he is up against "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, who has insulted their way of life and called them "smelly, barbaric, idiotic brutes." He says that Vikings make some of the best people on the planet and that they have excellent hygiene, then Styles will respect the Viking lifestyle following a phenomenal beating. Erik says he has the task of toppling Omos, whom he says will give him a test for the ages. He says this is Omos' first one-on-one match, however, and he plants to find a weakness in that inexperience before he and Ivar become WWE Raw Tag Team Champions again.
Before the next match, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles apologizes to The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) for what he called them, then says he should have called them hairy, uneducated and diseased. He also says that The Viking Raiders have stuck their noses in his and Omos' business and cost him a slot in the Money In The Bank Ladder Match, and says that he will take Ivar's leg and break it in the Calf Crusher. He then says that after that, Omos will have his first singles match on Raw, where he will destroy Erik so badly that Erik will wish he never took off his horned helmet. Styles then says they will destroy The Viking Raiders on Sunday.
Ivar beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles after sitting down on Styles from out of the corner.
Omos beats Erik.
Backstage, Sheamus is not happy with having to defend the WWE United States Champion with a broken nose, but he is here now to defend the title, and he, Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville are on the same page.
Backstage, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) are met by The Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik), who wish Kofi Kingston good luck on Sunday before Sarah Schriber interviews The New Day. After Kofi celebrates Woods' victory earlier tonight, Schreiber reports that Bobby Lashley has returned to the building. Woods makes fun of Lashley's "video game guy" insult before saying that Kofi will beat Lashley on Sunday. Kofi says that being WWE Champion is about "being on your best grind" and not VIP lounges, and says that those days will be coming again when he beats Lashley to become a two-time WWE Champion.
We see a video package about the Money In The Bank Ladder Match.
Backstage, Sheamus attacks Humberto Carrillo, then swings and yells at officials when they try to stop him before mocking a downed Humberto Carrillo. As Sheamus leaves, Damian Priest stares him down.
Backstage, Humberto Carrillo wants to face Sheamus, saying that if he can stand, then he can fight for the WWE United States Championship.
Sheamus retains the WWE United States Championship against Humberto Carrillo with a single Brogue Kick. After the match, Sheamus continues to attack Carrillo in retaliation for breaking his nose, and as he is about to break Carrillo's nose, Damian Priest runs into the ring and chases Sheamus away.
Backstage, Matt Riddle meets with Ricochet. Both of them agree that Sunday will be a great night, and Riddle says he will be making a real western spaghetti burrito before saying he misses Randy Orton. Matt Riddle says he plans on cashing the contract in on the Raw Tag Team Champions, then Ricochet talks about his match with Jon Morrison, who shows up with Miz and squirts Ricochet and Riddle with Drip Sticks. The Miz then runs over Riddle's foot, and Riddle says that Miz and Morrison are going down high noon style.
Ricochet beats John Morrison in a Falls Count Anywhere Match with a splash through a ladder after Matt Riddle gets The Miz on his back and unable to move.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Natalya and Tamina Snuka. Natalya says tonight is part of an opportunity for her to hold three titles at once. During the interviews, Natalya and Tamina notice Dana Brooke and Mandy Rose laughing, and neither of them love the odds of Natalya winning or staying a champion. Tamina says she loves the odds of putting their teeth down their throat, then shoves Dana into a wall.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Drew McInytre, who says that the Money In The Bank Ladder Match may be his last chance to reach the top of the mountain, then compares his situation to the legend of Icarus. He says that the Money In The Bank briefcase is like the sun and that his wings are made not out of wax, but "100% Grade A Scottish beef," and that nothing will stop him from winning the contract.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Rhea Ripley, who says that Natalya challenged her and that she does not back down from a challenge. She also says that Charlotte Flair does not have a crutch to hide behind after exposing her for the drama queen she is. Ripley goes on to say that she will retain the WWE Raw Women's Championship this Sunday.
Rhea Ripley beats Natalya. After the match, Rhea Ripley is attacked from behind with a chop block by Charlotte Flair, who then targets Ripley's left knee and puts her in the Figure Four Leg Lock off the ring apron.
Backstage, MVP tells his entourage that tonight has not been the best night and tells them that he and Bobby Lashley need smiles. He also tells them to tend to whatever Lashley needs.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Charlotte Flair, who says that it will be game over for Rhea Ripley this Sunday.
It's time for The VIP Lounge. After MVP says that he will remember the Thunderdome as "the Lashelydome" and that Bobby Lashley will be on the road next, he then introduces Lashley as tonight's guest. Lashley refuses to show up until MVP introduces Lashley three times. Lashley shows up in a shirt, pants, vest and a tie, then asks the entourage that he needs to talk to MVP alone. The entourage leaves, then says that he thought Kofi Kingston was just trying to talk trash at first, but that he realized he was right. He says he should have piled The New Day up in a pile of broken bones, and yet MVP is trying to cheer him up with drink and women. He says that he appreciates what MVP has done, but he says that "this bullshit needs to stop" and that they need to get back to business, and that he needs to destroy every single soul that challenges him for the WWE Championship. Bobby Lashley destroys everything in the ring, then tells Kofi Kingston he will tear him in half, and tells him to bring his family and friends when he dismantles him and does everything he said he would do. He hopes that Kofi is ready to fight not just for the title, but for his life, because he will break him and send him to the circus in a box to the rest of the clown, saying that the circus is dead and so is Kofi's career.
Raw Talk: Matt Riddle wants Randy Orton back in his life.
The Miz and John Morrison start tonight's show with Miz TV. John Morrison, who is the first of four guests, says that he will be winning the Money In The Bank Ladder Match and winning the contract a week from Sunday. The second of four guests is Drew McIntyre, who says that The Miz is why he has a love-hate relationship with the Money In The Bank contract due to Miz cashing in on him successfully. He says he has never stopped fighting his way back to the title since then. McIntyre then says he will win the contract and cash in on the champion of his choosing, then says he is a distant relative of Davy Crockett through his great-great-great grandmother, who is known for crafting great stories, and says he will craft one of his own. He warns Miz that if he gets involved in the Ladder Match, they will be telling the story of how Miz's head got shoved up Morrison's ass, and says he would rather die in Texas than surrender the contract. After Morrison tells McIntyre that he will get wet if he kicks the ocean, the third of four guests, Ricochet, shows up. Miz calls what Ricochet did to John Morrison last week "reckless," and says he was lucky it ended in a double count-out. Ricochet says he is a little shook about what happened last and that Morrison is, too, but says he is willing to do whatever it takes to win the contract, even if that means using The Miz's wheelchair as a battering ram. After Morrison tells Ricochet to back his words up in a rematch later tonight, the last of four guests, Matt RIddle, shows up. Riddle climbs up the ladder in the ring, then says he let Randy Orton down last week and dedicates the Ladder Match to Orton. Miz gets irritated, especially as McIntyre encourages Riddle, and as Miz hopes that Jinder Mahal beats McIntyre tonight, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles AJ Styles and Omos show up. Styles says he was screwed out of the Money In The Bank Ladder Match after Orton was pulled out of the match, and says the last chance qualifier should have been a one-on-one match between himself and McIntyre and not a Triple Threat Match, and says he was not pinned. He says that it was Riddle, not him, who got pinned, and blames his inability to get in the Money In The Bank Ladder match on him. Riddle decides to play around with Styles and Omos, and when he tells Omos to high five him, Omos pushes him off the ladder. Riddle hurts his bandaged ankle on the way down, and Omos then tosses the ladder out of the ring. Styles then kicks Riddle in the hurt angle, and Ricochet shoves him. As McIntyre confronts Omos, Morrison attacks Ricochet from behind only for Ricochet to toss him out of the ring. McIntyre then clotheslines Omos out of the ring, and Ricochet drop kicks Morrison out of the ring before breaking a drip stick and tossing it into the stands.
John Morrison beats Ricochet by count-out when The Miz - who squirts Ricochet with a Drip Stick before the end of the match - gets in Ricochet's way with his wheelchair.
In footage from earlier today, Jinder Mahal shows up in a motorcycle before being interviewed by Kevin Patrick. Jinder talks about his history with McIntyre, whom he says is too busy for him. He says that he should have been included in the Money In The Bank Ladder Match because he has always been better than McIntyre, and tonight, he will prove he is better.
Backstage, Reginald sees Alexa Bliss while with Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler. Baszler gets irritated when Alexa disappears, but when they three of them leave, Alexa re-appears.
Backstage, Naomi, Nikki Cross and Asuka meet. Nikki and Asuka like Nikki's superhero gimmick, and Nikki has to remind them that she is almost a superhero, but that she has learned to believe in herself and is at her most successful. She says she has a chance to win the Money In The Bank contract, and says that if those who are less than confident believed in themselves, they could accomplish a lot. Naomi and Asuka remind her that they are gunning for the contract. After Nikki heads to the ring, Alexa Bliss shows up and tells Naomi and Asuka that she will be the one winning the contract.
Nia Jax, "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler, Eva Marie and Doudrop beat Naomi, Asuka, Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross in an eight-woman tag match. After the match, Eva Marie takes full credit for the win. Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler take exception to this.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews MVP and Bobby Lashley. MVP gets irritated with Kevin for getting into their parties and tells him to make an appointment, and says that Kofi Kingston is not worthy of being in the same ring as Lashley. MVP calls managing Lashley one of the highest honors of his career, and that he and Lashley will not be disrespected. Lashley says he has beaten Drew McIntyre and Xavier Woods in back-to-back Hell In A Cell Matches and took a vacation. He takes exception to Kofi calling him "soft" and says he will shove his words down his throat, end his Money In The Bank pipe dreams and hurt him.
Mustafa Ali beats Mansoor and gives him his first loss in more than a year. During the match, Mustafa Ali gets his foot caught in the rope. Mansoor helps him and goes to check on him only for Mustafa Ali to win with a roll-up.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Drew McIntyre, who says that Jinder Mahal is more than willing to face him in the ring, then claims that his sword is made from a tooth of the Loch Ness Monster. Drew McIntyre tells the story of a warrior who climbed up the Loch Ness Monster's neck, choked it out and pulled one of its teeth out after hitting a Claymore Kick before making friends with the monster afterwards.McIntyre then says he will beat Jinder Mahal tonight.
Drew McIntyre beats Jinder Mahal by disqualification when Shanky and Veer attack McIntyre. After the match, Shanky and Veer stay on the attack, and Jinder superkicks McIntyre before Shanky and Veer send McIntyre shoulder-first into the ring post. Jinder then hits McIntyre with the Khalass. Jinder then takes McIntyre's sword in exchange for costing him a Money In The Bank Ladder Match opportunity.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods). Kofi says that when MVP and Bobby Lashley challenged them to a tag team match, they accepted, for that is what they do. Kofi Kingston then says that MVP and Bobby Lashley are mad at him for touching a nerve about what he had to say about them, and Woods says that he is here after going to Hell and back with Lashley and that he and Kofi have been proving Lashley wrong. Kofi Kingston says that he was proving anything was possible when he was WWE Champion, and that he will become WWE Champion again.
The Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik) beat T-Bar and Mace with a hurricanrana into a sit-down pin from Lince Dorado to T-Bar.
Backstage, Matt Riddle is met by Damian Priest. Riddle says he has taken a worse fall than tonight, then Damian Priest reminds him that his hurt ankle could affect his match with AJ Styles tonight and his chances in the Money In The Bank Ladder Match. Riddle says that he has bounced back from a bad fall before, and that he will win the men's Money In The Bank Ladder Match.
Matt Riddle beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles. During the match, a Karate Kid reference happens where Matt Riddle stands on one foot and hits Styles with the Crane Kick despite Styles knowing exactly what Riddle is up to. Later on in the match, The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) surround Omos at ringside, and this also distracts Styles to the point that Matt Riddle wins with a schoolkid pin.
Charlotte Flair is in the ring with a crutch in her hand. Charlotte says she might miss Money In The Bank after comparing her injury to the ones happening in the NBA right now, and that Rhea Ripley is so scared of losing the Raw Women's title that she is using her own moves against her to take her out. Charlotte then says that Rhea Ripley is learning how to be a dirty player from her and is doing the same thing she would do, then says that nobody is better than her before Rhea Ripley shows up. Rhea Ripley then shows up with a crutch in her hand, her knee also hurt. She limps up the stairs and asks for help getting into the ring, which she gets. Rhea says Charlotte is right in saying she would do exactly what she would do, then says she sees right through Charlotte and says she can see right through her and knows she is being a drama queen. Both women kick the crutch out of the other's hand to reveal they are not hurt, then both of them fight with their crutches until Rhea Ripley is disarmed. Rhea gets her crutch back and turns the tables, forcing Charlotte to retreat.
Jaxson Ryker and R-Truth beat Elias and Cedric Alexander. Before the match begins, Akira Tozawa runs into the ring. R-Truth nearly pins him for the WWE 24/7 Championship, but Tozawa kicks out and runs away from a bevy of Superstars. R-Truth then runs out of the ring and chases after Tozawa. Jaxson Ryker ends up in a 2-on-1 handicap match, but Ryker is more than game to the point that when he dares Elias to tag in, Elias walks away and Ryker calls him a coward. Cedric tries to attack him, but Ryker lays him out for the win.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews MVP and Bobby Lashley, the latter of whom is doing pull-ups. Lashley glares into the camera after MVP asks Kevin Patrick if Lashley looks like a man who has lost his edge.
Next week: Ricochet vs. John Morrison in a Falls Count Anywhere Match! Humberto Carrillo vs. Sheamus for the WWE United States Championship! Erick vs. Omos and Ivar vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles! In two weeks: The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos for the WWE Raw Tag Team Championships!
The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) beat MVP and Bobby Lashley after Kofi Kingston counters the Playmaker into the Trouble In Paradise.
Raw Talk:Kofi Kingston says he will win the Money In The Bank Ladder Match.
WWE officials Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce announce that due to circumstances beyond their control, Randy Orton cannot compete in tonight's last chance Triple Threat Money In The Bank qualifier, and that the show will start with a battle royal the winner taking Orton's match. Suddenly, Matt Riddle shows up with a note from Randy Orton telling them to let Riddle take his place, but it becomes obvious Riddle wrote it. Riddle then proposes he compete on Orton's behalf to save his spot. Deville and Pierce agree that while this is an unconventional move, they agree on it, and tell him to get to the ring.
Matt Riddle last eliminates Damian Priest to win a battle royal to take Randy Orton's place in the Last Chance Triple Threat Money In The Bank Qualifying Match later tonight. After the match, Riddle asks that Randy Orton's theme music be played, and it is. During the match, Drew Gulak pins Akira Tozawa after he is eliminated to win the WWE 24/7 Championship, then an eliminated R-Truth attacks Gulak to take it back. After this, Tozawa attacks R-Truth and takes the 24/7 Championship back once more. Also, The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) are eliminated from the outside by Omos with help from Jinder Mahal, and proceeds to attack them.
Backstage, "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler is met by Nia Jax as she shuffles a deck of cards. Nia Jax wants to make sure they are on the same page, and Shayna Baszler says that after she sends Nikki Cross back to reality, she will do the same to Alexa Bliss and Lily. Meanwhile, Alexa Bliss is seen having watched this conversation from a distance.
Backstage, Jaxson Ryker is seen hitting a road crate with a leather strap.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos. AJ Styles says that when you're supposed to be somewhere and you're not, you lose the opportunity, and says that he should be in a one-on-one match; unfortunately, he is in a Triple Threat match and his chances of winning have gone down despite Omos watching his back. Omos says he was simply scouting the competition for Styles earlier in the battle royal. After Styles accuses Kevin of giving Omos grief for what The Viking Raiders did to him last week, Styles says that Riddle is banged up tonight. He says that with Riddle tired, it will be a little easier to win tonight's triple threat qualifier, win Money In The Bank, and become WWE Champion for a third time.
Backstage, The Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik) compliment Nikki Cross on her new superhero outfit, then Sarah Schreiber interviews Nikki Cross. Nikki says she is inspired to become a superhero, as something has been brought out inside of her and it was only a matter of time before it came out. Nikki then says she plans on winning the women's Money In The Bank Ladder Match, inspire young children everywhere, and become a champion. Nikki then comes up with a new nickname for herself: "Nikki A.S.H.: Almost A Superhero."
Nikki Cross beats "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler. During the match, Alexa Bliss shows up, distracting Baszler, Reginald and Nia Jax on the outside to the point that Nikki Cross hits all three of them with a cross body from the top rope to the outside. Later on in the match, Alexa hypnotizes Nia briefly, but when Reginald tries to stop her, Alexa takes both of them out before leaving. This distracts Shayna Baszler, and this allows Nikki to win with a La Magistral Cradle.
Kofi Kingston heads to the ring. Kofi says there are certain moments in our lives that occur and change us for better or worse, and says he does not know how last week has affected him yet after seeing Xavier Woods screaming and writhing in pain in the Cell. She says that Xavier Woods was there to have his back, but once he was in the Cell, he could not do anything for him. He says that people have disrespected Woods for a long time, thinking he is not up to snuff, and that Woods proved what kind of competitor he is. Kofi says that it is time to put some respect on Woods' name, then says that while Bobby Lashley won that match, what MVP did after that match was not okay, as MVP kept Woods locked in both the Cell and Lashley's Hurt Lock. He says he cannot get this image out of his mind, and promises that he will make Lashley pay when he beats him at Money In The Bank, takes everything from him and becomes WWE Champion. MVP shows up with his entourage and says that Kofi saying he will beat Lashley for the WWE Championship is the most ridiculous thing he has heard from him, then says he is looking forward to Money In The Bank and a live audience while looking past Kofi. MVP says Kofi is no threat to Lashley, who is currently on vacation and has passed a message to MVP where he states that he enjoyed doing what he did to Woods and that he looks forward to doing the same to Kofi. After MVP says that what Lashley will do to Kofi will make Brock Lesnar look like's child play, Kofi reminds MVP that Drew McIntyre beat Lashley within an inch of a life and would have won had it not for MVP, then says he has beaten Lashley and can beat him again. Kofi says that Lashley is more beatable than ever, as layers of Lashley's mystique have disappeared to the point that he is scrambling to grab a piece of his former success like MVP is doing. MVP says he has done what he has done for Lashley because he has deserved it, but Kofi says he has deserved to become WWE Champion and never took a day off when he was champ, taking the title to Ghana and returning to television the next day while Lashley is distracted and taking vacations. He says that Lashley's eyes are off the prize and that somebody else will take that prize, and that this somebody will be him. MVP says he respects Kofi's optimism and says that Woods was extremely optimistic about beating Lashley in Hell In A Cell. He then says that Lashley injured Woods to the point that he is not here, and that the odds of Woods returning next week are as slim as Kofi's title chances. Kofi says that Woods will show up next week as he has heart and determination, and says that MVP has been milking a knee injury for six months. MVP says he is not cleared for combat and would whip his ass if he was. After MVP insists he is hurt, Kofi rushes at MVP and hits him with the Trouble In Paradise, then tells him he was not too hurt when he helped Lashley retain the WWE Championship and that he is hurt now.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Eva Marie and Doudrop. Eva Marie says Doudrop made a rookie mistake and was overwhelmed at being at the forefront of the Eva-Lution. She then says "Poor thing" and says that she has requested a rematch of last week's match so that Doudrop can learn a lesson from her mistakes, then says that she will win and that the Eva-Lution will continue.
Eva Marie and Doudrop beat Asuka and Naomi despite Eva Marie leaving Doudrop high and dry, forcing her to finish the match on her own. After the match, Eva Marie declares herself the winner.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews The Miz and John Morrison. Miz says that Morrison will not only win the Money In The Bank Ladder Match, but that he will also cash in due to his tutelage. Morrison says he may not be the fastest or strongest, he is the smartest, and Miz says that they will know when to strike. Suddenly, Ricochet is interviewing them, not Sarah Schreiber. He reveals he has Morrison's Drip Stick, with which he squirts Miz and Morrison with.
Ricochet vs. John Morrison ends in a double count-out after Ricochet hits a top rope cross body to the barricade on Morrison.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair talks with Natalya and Tamina, saying they have respect for the business and upholding a family legacy in common and that they know what it takes to lead a division unlike their opponents. Natalya says that they have nothing to be concerned about tonight, and Tamina says that they will get their receipt back from last week tonight. Charlotte says that tonight, the three of them will prove that respect is earned.
Charlotte Flair, Natalya and Tamina beat Mandy Rose, Dana Brooke and Rhea Ripley. After the match, Rhea Ripley hits Charlotte Flair with a chop block in response to Charlotte hitting her with one near the end of the match.
Backstage, Jaxson Ryker is hitting himself in the back with a leather strap. When Akira Tozawa runs past, R-Truth shows up and asks Jaxson Ryker questions. Ryker says he is preparing himself for battle. He then talks about his strap match with Elias, saying Elias will have nowhere to run, and says that he is purging himself of any weakness and exploring where to put the most pain on his opponent. When R-Truth asks if he can borrow the strap afterwards to whip Tozawa with, he gets no response as Ryker keeps hitting himself.
Jaxson Ryker beats Elias in a Strap Match.
Backstage, Damian Priest congratulates Matt Riddle on his battle royal win tonight, then Riddle says he is Randy Orton and asks what he wants. After Priest mentions Burger King, Riddle stops the charade, but Priest tells Riddle that Orton is fortunate to have him as a friend.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Drew McIntyre, who says that tonight's Triple Threat Match reminds him of the Battle of Edinburgh before going of a tangent, then says he will not show his card before going into the ring and winning tonight and in the Money In The Bank Ladder Match.
Drew McIntyre beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Matt Riddle in a Last Chance Triple Threat Money In The Bank Qualifying Match after hitting the Claymore Kick on Riddle after Omos pulls Styles out of a pinfall attempt. During the match, Riddle injured his foot after accidentally ramming it into the steel steps. Riddle is taking to the back where his foot is taped up, but he shows up near the end of the match in an attempt to win.
Raw Talk: Drew McIntyre plans on being the next Money In The Bank winner.
It's time for The VIP Lounge. MVP, Bobby Lashley and their entourage enter the ring. MVP gives Lashley the opportunity to say a few words, and Lashley says that he and Drew McIntyre went through hell and that McIntyre almost took him to the limits, then says that McIntyre's best was still not enough. MVP and Lashley celebrate the fact that McIntyre can never challenge Lashley for the WWE Championship again, then MVP proposes a toast to Lashley just before The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) show up with a serving cart with toast on it. The New Day then throw toast into the ring, and MVP says that Kofi and Xavier's clownery is why they were not even on late night's show and that they will continue to cosplay and play video games as he and Lashley enjoy the finer things in life. Kofi says that it is well-documented that he surrounds himself with people trusts rather than users who will chew one up and spit one out when the world runs dry, and asks Lashley if he thinks MVP and his entourage will hang around when he beats him for the WWE title. Lashley says that will never happen and that he will never lose to someone like Kofi or Woods, whom he says are much below his level, but Kofi reminds Lashley that he had already beaten him once before. Kofi then mentions that Lashley has no opponent for Money In The Bank and challenges him for the WWE Championship. MVP is reluctant, but Lashley accepts, saying that Drew McIntyre helped Kofi Kingston win. Lashley then proposes that to keep their match at Money In The Bank one-on-one by facing Woods tonight, underestimating and mocking Woods as he does. Woods reminds Lashley of his accomplishments while in WWE, and tells Lashley to keep underestimating him. Woods accepts the match, then looks up and says that their match will be a Hell In A Cell Match. The Cell is then seen above the ring. Lashley once again accepts the match, then MVP also accepts.
In footage from earlier today, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos run into The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik), and Styles says that they are nothing. After Ivar reminds them that they beat them, Styles says that he will qualify for the Money In The Bank Ladder Match before beating "two stinky barbarians." Erik reminds Styles that they beat him and Omos once and that they "these two stinky barbarians" will beat him again. Styles slaps the turkey leg out of Ivar's hand, and Erik has to hold Ivar back.
Ricochet beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles to qualify for the men's Money In The Bank Ladder Match after The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) attack Omos and send him crashing through the barricade.
Backstage, Randy Orton is met by Matt Riddle with "RK-Bro" merchandise and says that if he wins the Money In The Bank briefcase, he will use it to hide his stash of Burger King Whoppers. Backstage, Randy Orton is met by Matt Riddle with "RK-Bro" merchandise and says that if he wins the Money In The Bank briefcase, he will use it to hide his stash of Burger King Whoppers. As Riddle talks about his fear of the Burger King, Orton asks him what he wants. Riddle says he wants pointers on the Money In The Bank Ladder Match. Orton tells Riddle to stay out of his way, but Riddle says they will have to face each other for the MITB contract.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Eva Marie and Piper Niven. Eva Marie says it has been five years since she has been in a WWE ring and everything had to be perfect, then mentions her manicure before saying she caught a cold. She then says that instead of throwing in the towel, she says that she had her protege take her place. Her protege then introduces herself as "Doudrop" at Eva Marie's insistence when she is about to say "Piper Niven."
Asuka and Naomi beat Eva Marie and Doudrop and qualify for the women's Money In The Bank Ladder Match when Eva Marie tags herself in and Doudrop refuses to help her out.
WWE officials Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville are in the ring, and they ask Rhea Ripley to come to the ring, which Rhea Ripley does. Pearce says that what Rhea Ripley did in last night's match was "completely unacceptable," saying that the disqualification rule was not meant to be abused. Ripley says that Charlotte Flair would have done the same thing, then Charlotte Flair shows up. Charlotte says she is proud of Rhea, for she was kicking Rhea's ass and Rhea proved that she is smarter and more clever than she thought she was, and proved she was a strategic competitor like her. Charlotte then says she will destroy Rhea Ripley, and Sonya says that if this is Charlotte's way of asking for a rematch, there will be on at Money In The Bank.
In footage from earlier today, Megan Morant interviews Natalya and Tamina in the middle of a photo shoot when Mandy Rose and Dana Brooke are training in the ring. Once again, both teams brawl, but Mandy and Dana quickly overpower them.
The Miz guests on commentary for the next match.
John Morrison beats Randy Orton and qualifies for the men's Money In The Bank Ladder Match after Orton is distracted by Matt Riddle chasing after The Miz on his scooter.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler. Nia says that what happened last night won't happen again tonight, and Baszler says that nobody scares her and nobody will keep her from qualifying for Money In The Bank tonight. Nia Jax then admits that there is something different about Alexa Bliss.
We hear from Nikki Cross, who says that she feels a spark inside of her that makes her feel like she can win the Money In The Bank Ladder Match, and now has the means of expressing that spark. She says that she will not be alone, because tonight, she represents everyone, no matter their shortcomings, and that her superhero costume embodies the spirit inside everyone.
Nikki Cross and Alexa Bliss beat Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler and qualify for the women's Money In The Bank Ladder Match after Alexa hypnotizes Reginald into nearly slapping Nia Jax, allowing Nikki Cross to drop kick Nia Jax before winning with a La Magistral Cradle on Shayna.
Backstage, WWE officials Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville meet with Drew McIntyre, who admits that while he went through a war last night, and while he is hurting more mentally than physically, he will never surrender. He says that if he is in hell, then he might as well keep going. Pearce and Sonya wish him good luck tonight.
Backstage, WWE officials Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville are met by several Superstars who want to know why they are not qualifying for the Money In The Bank Ladder Match. Sheamus says he should be automatically in the Money In The Bank Ladder Match by being United States Champion, but changes his tune when Adam Pearce says that his nose is fine and ready to defend the title. Jinder Mahal then proposes being considered as an alternate should something happen to one of the Money In The Bank Ladder Match's participants.
Matt Riddle beats Drew McIntyre with a Victory Roll. During the match, Randy Orton shows up to watch the match from the stage.
Backstage, Jaxson Ryker is met by Mansoor, who second guesses asking for advice when he sees him with a leather strap. Ryker then says to never let your enemy escape, as the ones closest to you can be wolves in sheep's clothing. He then mentions that he will be in a strap match against Elias next week, and says that with Elias being about the music, he says that the only music he will hear is the strap hitting his back. Mansoor then meets Mustafa Ali, who says he is asking the wrong questions to the wrong people, then says that the opportunity to qualify for Money In The Bank was stolen from people like them and that if he cannot climb the ladder to success, then he must build his own ladder.
Bobby Lashley beats Xavier Woods in a Hell In A Cell Match with the Hurt Lock. After the match, Lashley attacks Woods, and MVP locks himself inside the cell to keep Kofi Kingston out while Lashley puts Woods in the Hurt Lock again.
The show begins with Alexa Bliss, who says that even she was taken aback by what Lilly did last week to "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler and that she only had good intentions welcoming Baszler to the playground and that things went out of hand. Alexa says that she has put Lilly in time out due to going back on the road and due to concerns from WWE. Suddenly, Nia Jax shows up and tells Alexa that Baszler will see her at Hell In A Cell, then asks Alexa what happened to her as they used to be friends. After Alexa takes offense of Nia allegating that she meant to hurt Baszler and Nia tells Alexa that she will see her in the ring tonight, Alexa tearfully asks for forgiveness before laughing and accepting the challenge.
Before the next match, Sarah Schreiber interviews Charlotte Flair, who says that while she and Rhea Ripley will have a great match at Hell In A Cell, she lacks the maturity to be champion. She says she does not need a match tonight, and that she will make Nikki Cross a flash in the pan. She also says that she will end any hopes of Rhea Ripley being the one to lead the women's division.
Nikki Cross beats Charlotte Flair by count-out after Charlotte Flair showboats in front of Rhea Ripley on the outside for too long. After the match, Charlotte hits Nikki with a big boot, but when she goes for a Figure Four Leg Lock, Rhea Ripley gets in the ring and hits Charlotte with Riptide.
Backstage, Matt Riddle talks with Jeff Hardy, saying he feels like he let Randy Orton down as he asks for tag team match advice. Jeff says that trust is important, for when it is broken, the spirit of the team is gone. Jeff Hardy then tells Riddle to listen to Orton, as he has been in the business for a long time, then opens his eyes as he says he has a match with John Morrison and has to go, surprising Riddle, who had no idea that Jeff had his eyes shut the whole time. Suddenly, Jeff Hardy is gone, then Orton shows up. Riddle apologizes to Orton for letting him down, then Orton tells Riddle not to be another Randy Orton and to instead be more like himself.
The Miz guests on commentary for the next match.
John Morrison beats Jeff Hardy. During the match, Cedric Alexander shows up to get a closer look at the match. After the match, Cedric Alexander apologizes to Jeff Hardy for not showing proper respect to him last week, then says he looked back on their match last week and calls Jeff Hardy a sore winner who disrespected him. He then says he is sorry for not kicking Jeff's "disrespectful ass" into a retirement home, then Jeff Hardy grabs a microphone and says that he will retire if Cedric Alexander can beat him in a match right now.
Jeff Hardy beats Cedric Alexander, keeping his WWE career alive.
Before the next match, Eva Marie shows up for her first match of her return, but Piper Niven - who comes to the ring with Eva Marie - fights for Eva instead..
Piper Niven - who is not even mentioned by name, even after the match - beats Naomi.
In footage from earlier today, Mandy Rose and Dana Brooke's photo shoot is disturbed by Natalya and Tamina practicing in a nearby ring. Natalya and Tamina accuse Dana and Mandy of being lazy and says their brains didn't open doors for them. Mandy Rose then tells Natlaya and Tamina that if it weren't for their famous names, doors would have been shut for them years ago. This starts a brawl in the practice ring between both teams, and officials and referees have to break it up.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Drew McIntyre, who says that he will call Bobby Lashley "Trashley" from now on before briefly addressing his match tonight with "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles. McIntyre then recalls the strategy of the great Scottish warrior William Wallace, then says his strategy this Sunday will be cold and calculated and will earn him the WWE Championship.
Randy Orton and Matt Riddle beat The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) after Orton counters the Honor Roll with an RKO.
Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Rhea Ripley, who calls tonight another example of why Charlotte Flair is the delusional one and cannot control herself when she is around. She says that Charlotte is too focused on mending her bruised ego, and says it unfortunate to see someone so powerful crumble before stating she will send Charlotte to the back of the line on Sunday.
Rhea Ripley beats Asuka. After the match, Rhea Ripley is attacked from behind by Charlotte Flair. Both women brawl until officials and referees show up to physically restrain them, but Charlotte and Rhea still get some licks in on each other before Charlotte is taken out of the ring. Charlotte tries to get back in the ring, but Rhea Ripley hits her with a big boot and gives her a bloody nose. Referees and officials have to keep Charlotte from getting back in the ring.
Backstage, Kevin Patrick tries to get an interview with Bobby Lashley. MVP says he and Lashley do not care about Drew McIntyre's match with AJ Styles, and says that McIntyre has run out of opportunities at the WWE Championship. Lashley says that on Sunday, McIntyre will wish he never mentioned his name after he throws his lifeless body around for the capital offense of going for the WWE Championship (and also admits that he likes McIntyre comparing himself to William Wallace).
Alexa Bliss beats Nia Jax by disqualification after Reginald pulls Alexa off of Nia Jax. After the match, Alexa hypnotizes Reginald by staring at him, and Reginald moves his head in time with Alexa's and even moves his hand upward slightly in time with Alexa's before Alexa runs away.
Backstage, MVP meets with The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods). MVP says that Kofimania is dead and that Xavier Woods is to blame, and says that Kofi is wasting his career in tag teams with people who don't measure up. Kofi tells MVP to keep his mouth shut unless he wants to pick his teeth up off the floor, and says he has been successful in WWE due to the support of family and friends and that nothing MVP says will change that. MVP then wishes Kofi luck in his match on Sunday, then says he doesn't have one.
Jaxson Ryker beats Elias by count-out.
We see a video package regarding the Cell.
MVP and Bobby Lashley watch the next match from a pair of couches with their entourage.
Drew McIntyre beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles by disqualification. During the match, MVP and Bobby Lashley confront Drew McIntyre as Omos pulls Styles out of the ring, but before they can do anything, The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) show up to even the numbers at ringside. Later on, Lashley attacks McIntyre, and The Viking Raiders rush in and toss Lashley out of the ring, where McIntyre throws Lashley around with a belly-to-belly suplex.
Drew McIntyre and The Viking Raiders (Ivar and Erik) beat "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Omos and Bobby Lashley.
Raw Talk: R-Truth nearly gets on Alexa Bliss' bad side.
