Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for June 18, 2021

Rey Mysterio heads to the ring to start tonight's show. The show is surrounded by the Cell. Rey says that any parent watching knows what he feels right now: the feeling of pain, hurt and sadness. He says that he has told his son Dominik Mysterio the risks of getting in the ring, but he knew the risks and is able to walk. He says that Roman Reigns picked up his son and tossed him like a bag of bricks all the way down to the floor, and that he will never forget the sound and the look in Dominik's eyes as he suffered in pain. He also says that he will never forget the man who did this to him - Roman Reigns - and that he wants his revenge in Hell In A Cell tonight. Rey says he knows that Roman accepted his challenge last night on Twitter, then says he wants to hear it from Roman in person and says "Get out here, you son of a bitch!" Suddenly, the Cell lowers around Rey, then Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman show up. Roman says they do not have to do this, that he does not want to hurt Rey and that this is not his fault, and also says that Rey does not want to be in the Cell with him, saying that what he did to Dominik will be "PG" compared to what he will do to Rey. When Roman asks if he still wants to do this, Rey responds by saying "I've never been more ready in my life." Roman says he tried to be diplomatic, but now they will do things his way.

We see a video package for Commander Azeez, who will have his debut match tonight.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Big E and Kevin Owens. Owens admits that Commander Azeez is big and dangerous, but he is not worried because he could not have a better partner than Big E. Big E admits he still remembers Kevin Owens turning on The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Big E, Xavier Woods), but he says that tonight, Apollo Crews and Commander Azeez will feel their power.

Sami Zayn guests on commentary for the next match.

Apollo Crews and Commander Azeez beat Big E and Kevin Owens after Sami Zayn tries to cheap shot Kevin Owens on the outside. After the match, Azeez hits Owens with a second Nigerian Nail. Backstage, Sami Zayn calls the visual of Kevin Owens choking in the ring "the face of karmic justice" and says he could do this forever.

Backstage, WWE officials Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville are met by a coughing Kevin Owens, who wants Sami Zayn in a match. He gets the match on Sunday.

Shinsuke Nakamura beats King Corbin in the Battle of the Crown to become the one true king of WWE.

Bianca Belair heads to the ring. Bianca says that Bayley kissed her segment goodbye last week and says that she will kiss her championship hopes goodbye on Sunday. She then says that this is Bayley's cue, but Bayley doesn't show up. She says that Bayley's games almost worked, as it made her second-guess herself and brought her back to being made fun of as a girl when she was some much more that what people thought, but she says she defines herself and is unapologetically herself. Bianca says that Bayley will physically and mentally give her everything she's got, then tells Bayley that on Sunday, she does not just want her in the ring, she wants her inside Hell In A Cell, and that Bayley won't be laughing when she drags her around the Cell. She also says that Bayley will be begging her to stop and that she will remain WWE SmackDown Women's Champion. She says that people ignore you, then laugh at you, then fight you and then you win. Bayley gets in the ring and tries to punch Bianca in the face, but Bianca blocks it and starts a brawl. Bayley turns the tables by grabbing Bianca's hair and pulling her into the barricade before hitting her in the ring with the Rose Plant. Bayley then stands on Bianca's hair while holding up the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship while her visage fills the Thunderdome.

Backstage, Roman Reigns is met by Jimmy Uso. Jimmy says he thought about what Roman said about representing the family and being the best. He says that he might not agree with everything Roman says, but admits Roman is right and says they are family. He says that he has not heard from Jey Uso in the last week, then tells Roman that if he needs his help, he is there. Roman says he does not need it and tells him that they both need Jey, as they are at their best when they are together.

Angelo Dawkins vs. Otis ends before it can begin when Dawkins chases after Gable only to be laid out by Otis. Gable and Otis then lay out Dawkins both in and out of the ring.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Cesaro. Cesaro says Seth Rollins has not gone far enough despite what he has done to him, then says WWE is his life, that he loves what he does and has worked hard for his opportunities that Seth has tried to take from him. Rollins shows up, and Cesaro is about to confront him when Rollins says he is here for a conversation, not a fight. He then takes over for Kayla Braxton on the interview and tells Cesaro that he disgusts him. Rollins says that everything Cesaro does and stands for is a disgrace, and that he does not even deserve a single ounce of respect. He then says that on Sunday, he will show him and everyone like him what he does deserve when he puts him in his place. Cesaro says he did not think Rollins had it in him to face him like a man, and says that he respects what he says and who he is as a competitor, and that he will see him on Sunday. He then nearly pushes Rollins out of his seat, much to Rollins' irritation.

Bayley vs. Bianca Belair in a Hell In A Cell Match for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship is official for Hell In A Cell, as is Kevin Owens vs. Sami Zayn.

Roman Reigns retains the WWE Universal Championship against Rey Mysterio in a Hell In A Cell Match with a modified guillotine choke after powerbomb Rey into the Cell wall. After the match, Jimmy Uso shows up and celebrates with Roman and Paul Heyman, then Roman notices Rey Mysterio get up and puts him in the modified guillotine choke again.

Talking Smack: Sami Zayn promises to deliver karmic justice to Kevin Owens.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 21, 2021

WWE official Sonya Deville is in the ring as all SmackDown champions except for the WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns are on stage. Sonya announces that WWE will leave the Thunderdome and return to live crowds in July. She then welcomes the SmackDown parade of champions: tag team champions Rey and Dominik Mysterio, Women's Tag Team Champions Natalya and Tamina, and Intercontinental Champion Apollo Crews. When Sonya says that Apollo Crews will be defending his title, Apollo Crews takes exception to being in the match before stating that he will be retaining his title after unleashing total destruction on Big E, Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens. He says they will all fall one by one and once again become victorious. The SmackDown parade of champions continues with Women's Champion Bianca Belair, then Sonya introduces Reigns. Paul Heyman shows up and calls the parade "a parade of title holders" and calls Roman is "the pre-eminent champion" of all sports entertainment. He then says that Roman will be part of a real parade of championship later tonight at his own pleasure, then leaves. Sonya then asks the fans to give all the champions on stage a hand, then Bayley slides into the ring. Bayley says she is the longest reigning SmackDown Women's Champion in history and a double champion during that reign, and says she should be thanked for putting the company on her back. She then insults all the champions on stage except for Apollo Crews. As she does this, she calls Bianca Belair a cheater and "a damn criminal" for using her ponytail to beat her on Sunday, and says Bianca should be stripped of her championship and placed around her waist. Bianca then gets in the ring, telling Bayley that if she wants the title, she had better come and take it. Bayley says "it's not time," and as she leaves the ring, Bianca is attacked by Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler. Natalya and Tamina run into the ring to even the odds, but even they get overpowered.

Bayley, Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler beat Bianca Belair, Natalya and Tamina with a Kirifuda Clutch from Baszler to Natalya.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Big E. Big E says that tonight, he will stand in the ring with dogs who future hall of famers and world champions, and that this iron will sharpen his iron. He says he will leave no doubt that he is the rightful Intercontinental Champion.

We hear from Aleister Black, who says that the pain his father taught him serves a purpose, as it is honest and it is truth. We then see Aleister Black's tattoos as he says that the people live proudly in their cesspool of sings and denial as it is all they are. He also says that the people are sick and dying animals and that it is time to separate the weak from the strong and to cull the herd.He also says that the people are sick and dying animals and that it is time to separate the weak from the strong and to cull the herd.

Before the next match, King Corbin calls Shinsuke Nakamura taking his crown the most disrespectful thing he has ever seen, as Shinsuke is not a real king despite being "The King of Strong Style" because a real king owns expensive material things. He then says that he will grind Nakamura against the mat with the heel of his boot before having the crown cleaned, then calls out Nakamura. Suddenly, a man shows up playing guitar. He says his name is Rick Boogs, and that he is here to rock with "the real king of SmackDown," Shinsuke Nakamura. Rick Boogs - who is played by Eric Bugenhagen, who also plays The Night Panther on the Old Spice advertisements - then plays guitar to Nakamura's theme as Nakamura comes out in a robe and wearing Corbin's crown.

Shinsuke Nakamura beats King Corbin with an inside cradle following the guitar solo distraction from Rick Boogs.

Backstage, Jimmy Uso meets with WWE official Sonya Deville. Jimmy says he and Jey Uso are ready to "do it big" against The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford). Sonya makes the match for next week.

We hear from Kevin Owens, who says that he won more titles in his first two years in WWE than most people do in their entire careers, and says that he intends on being a three-time Intercontinental Champion.

Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Paul Heyman head to the ring. Roman says he believes himself to be a humble man and takes every moment he can to teach his sons about humility, and while he does not like to brag on live television, he will let Paul Heyman celebrate him. Heyman calls this "a unique surprise" and acknowledges Roman Reigns and his accomplishments since his return to WWE and calls him the most pre-eminent champion in WWE as well as sports entertainment. Heyman then tells Roman his wish is his commands, and asks him if he wants anything else. Roman asks for Jimmy Uso to be brought to him, but Cesaro shows up again, this time with his right arm in a sling. Cesaro says he could not find Seth Rollins, then says he kept hearing Roman Reigns talk and says he wants to face Roman again for the Universal Championship at Hell in a Cell. Suddenly, Cesaro is attacked from behind by Seth Rollins. Referees and officials have to pull Rollins away from Cesaro and force him to the back as Cesaro is checked on. Rollins suddenly runs back down the ramp and attacks Cesaro again. This time, Rollins hits Cesaro with The Stomp, then fakes leaving a second time before hitting Cesaro with The Stomp again, this time on the ramp. A stretcher has to be brought in for Cesaro.

Backstage, Seth Rollins is being interviewed when he sees Cesaro being stretchered out of the arena. Seth then grabs Cesaro and screams at him.

Before the next match, Robert Roode tells Dominik Mysterio not to let Sunday's win get over his head, as his father Rey Mysterio did all the work, then says "bring your son to work day" is over and that he will prove that Dominik does not belong in WWE.

Dominik Mysterio beats Robert Roode after Dolph Ziggler's interference attempt fails.

Backstage, Jey Uso is met by Jimmy Uso, who tells him about their tag team match with The Street Profits. Jey Uso is upset that Jimmy put him in a match without telling him and now has to tell Roman Reigns, even as Jimmy says it is about them and not Roman.

Backstage, Jey Uso tells Roman Reigns about Jimmy Uso booking him in a tag team match next. Roman tells Jey that Jimmy is being selfish right now and that everything the two of them do represents the family.

Backstage, The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) make fun of the current Roman Reigns family situation before saying there will be nothing cute about what they will do to The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso).

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Sami Zayn, who accuses Kayla of trying to minimize him like everyone else and that he will never forget the conspiracy against him, and no matter what anyone thinks or say, he will take back the Intercontinental Championship.

Apollo Crews retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Big E, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn in a Fatal 4-Way Match after Aliester Black suddenly shows up and kicks Big E with the Black Mass as Apollo Crews holds Big E down by his feet.

Talking Smack: Apollo Crews addresses Aleister Black's involvement in tonight's Fatal 4-Way Match.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 14, 2021

Jey Uso is in the ring to start tonight's show. He says that Jimmy Uso disrespected Roman Reigns last week and left him and Roman no choice but to handle family business, then introduces Paul Heyman and Roman Reigns to the ring. Roman says he has some problems, one of them being Jimmy Uso, but he addresses Cesaro first, saying he likes him and that Cesaro is a top-tier talent and one of the best in the world, but Roman says he is more than a wrestler; he is the tribal chief. He says that with everything he does, Cesaro could not be able to fill all of his roles, and that WWE, Fox and SmackDown do not want Cesaro in his place. He says that Cesaro has never had a world title match in WWE, while he has had 39, according to Paul Heyman. Roman then addresses Jimmy Uso, saying that he got to see how it works before Jimmy shows up. Jimmy says that all he can hear is a tribal chief running his mouth while his brother stands next to him acting like his bitch, then tells Jey to join his team as he is not sure if Roman can beat Cesaro on Sunday. Jimmy says he is all about family when Jey tells him to show Roman respect, and when Roman says he has done everything for the family, Jimmy tells him he is not "all of the family." When asked by Roman, Jimmy makes it clear that Roman Reigns cannot beat Cesaro, then Roman asks Jimmy if he can fill his shoes. Jimmy says he cannot do it alone, but he can do it with Jey if they are tag team champions. Roman tells Jimmy that this is not how it works, as he has accomplished a lot in WWE and the only one who can handle all the responsibility, then laughs at Jimmy thinking he can "be the man around here" before daring him to do it by beating Cesaro tonight. Jimmy Uso then calls out Cesaro, telling him he has been gone for a year and is ready to lock it down, then Cesaro shows up. Cesaro accepts Jimmy Uso's challenge, then tells Roman that he will beat Jimmy tonight and beat him for the Universal Championship on Sunday.

Natalya and Tamina beat Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler to become the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions after Nia Jax hits Natalya with a Samoan Drop only for Tamina to hit her with the Superfly Splash. After the match, Kayla Braxton interviews Natalya and Tamina. Natalya says tonight's victory is for anyone who has a dream and felt their dream has passed them by, and Tamina thanks the fans, saying "this is why we do this."

Jimmy Uso vs. Cesaro is official for later tonight.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Paul Heyman, who says he does not know if Jimmy Uso can defeat Cesaro tonight, then says that Roman Reigns can and will beat Cesaro on Sunday.

Apollo Crews and Commander Azeez are in the ring. Apollo says that since he has become Intercontinental Championship, the amount of "gnats" coming after his title have increased every week, and that Azeez has swatted them away and has helped him bring pride and honor to the title. Apollo says that his reputation has increased and that he will become Intercontinental Champion for life, and awards Azeez with the Nigerian Medal of Honor for his efforts. Big E shows up on the TitanTron and calls the ceremony a sham, then tells Crews not to get comfortable with the Intercontinental title because he has yet to feel his power. Sami Zayn then shows up and says this is "typical Big E" and that he likes a good medal ceremony, but Apollo feels disrespected. As Sami Zayn demands an Intercontinental title match so that he can reclaim the title as "champion of the people," Kevin Owens runs in. Apollo and Azeez attack Sami and Kevin, then Big E gets in the ring and jumps in, dodging the Nigerian Nail and sending Azzez over the top. All five men continue to brawl, and Sami gets a Stunner before Owens gets a Big Ending. Apollo almost gets the Big Ending, too, but Apollo escapes it and gets helped away from the ring by Azeez.

Rey Mysterio beats Dolph Ziggler with an inside cradle. After the match, Robert Roode tries to attack Rey Mysterio, but Dominik Mysterio stops him.

Backstage, Megan Morant interviews Cesaro. Cesaro says it means the world to him to compete for the Universal Championship and that he has dreamed of this for so long, then says he is not "bred for this business" like Roman Reigns and that he has had to earn things. After saying that Jimmy Uso will just be known as "Roman Reigns' cousin," he says he knows he can beat Roman for the Universal Championship.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Rey and Dominik Mysterio. Rey says he is about to make history with his son when Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode show up, and Dolph tells Dominik once again that he does not belong here. Robert Roode says that Rey got lucky tonight and that on Sunday, he will be beaten for good. Dominik tells Dolph and Roode they can call him all the names they want, but they will soon be calling him "baby champ."

Bianca Belair heads to the ring. Michael Cole interviews Bianca Belair, who says that people have doubted her throughout her life, then asks where Bayley is after last week. Bayley shows up on the TitanTron and says that she would have to be an idiot to be in the same ring with Bianca after Bianca attacked her, and that the next time they will be in the ring, she will be taking back the SmackDown Women's title. Bianca says Bayley must be funny thinking she can beat her, and when Bayley laughs at her again, Bianca says Bayley is mad because she was too busy being thrown down the ramp by The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) while she was in the main event. Bayley says she sees the mirror of her own past when she sees Bianca, and tells her that her fairytale reigns will not end well and that she will end it for good.

King Corbin beats Shinsuke Nakamura after pinning Nakamura as he locks in the Triangle Hold. After the match, Nakamura lays out Corbin with a Kinshasa, then puts on his crown.

Backstage, Apollo Crews yells at WWE officials Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville for his medal ceremony being ruined. He ends up with a Fatal 4-Way match against Big E, Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens with the Intercontinental Championship on the line.

Backstage, Shinsuke Nakamura is wearing King Corbin's crowd as he looks in the mirror.

Aleister Black reads a story called "The Lesson." He says that his father taught him he was wrong to fight his true nature, as he is a cruel made made of steel while others are made of dirty, and says he chose greatness while others chose mediocrity. After saying that it is easier to take a seat and watch the action rather than join in the fight, he says he could help the people, but he will not.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Jimmy Uso, who was expecting his first match in over a year to be a tag team match with his brother Jey Uso, and after watching from the sidelines in that time, he says Jey does not need Roman Reigns to succeed. He then says that Roman Reigns is about to see if he can succeed against Cesaro.

Cesaro beats Jimmy Uso by disqualification after he is attacked suddenly by Roman Reigns. After the match, Jimmy Uso tells Roman Reigns he had Cesaro and chews him out for making the match about him. As Roman says that it doesn't matter and that only the big matches do, Cesaro attacks Jey Uso, and Roman has to run into the ring to fight Cesaro. Roman and Jey tell Jimmy to get in the ring and help as they attack Cesaro, but Jimmy gets leveled off the apron and Jey gets a Neutralizer and Roman retreats with Paul Heyman. Cesaro then dares Roman to get in the ring before putting Jey in another Neutralizer.

Talking Smack: Natalya and Tamina share a heartfelt message for the fans.

Talking Smack: Paul Heyman pays tribute to New Jack, who passed away this afternoon from a heart attack at the age of 58.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da Throwback SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 7, 2021

We look back on The Rock vs. Triple H for the WWF Championship from the main event of the August 26, 1999 episode of SmackDown.

Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Paul Heyman head to the ring. Paul Heyman announces that Roman Reigns has allowed him to eulogize the career of Daniel Bryan, and that they will do so with a ten-bell salute. Heyman says he does not need the timekeeper's help, and acts as the bell. Roman says that unlike Daniel Bryan, he is a man of his word and did what he said he would do, and because of this, he should be acknowledged, celebrated and thanked for always giving everybody what they want. He says that Daniel Bryan did not want to be here, and for that, he got rid of him, and with Daniel Bryan's absence, he has been replaced with someone who will acknowledge him: Jimmy Uso, who has not been seen in over a year due to a knee injury. Jimmy and Jey embrace in the ring, then Cesaro shows up and says he speaks for everyone by stating that Daniel Bryan is irreplaceable. He also says he has Seth Rollins to focus on, the gets attacked from behind by Seth Rollins. Rollins and Cesaro brawl, and referees and officials run in to separate both men before Teddy Long suddenly shows up. Long says that as per the power of Adam Pearce, if Cesaro beats Rollins tonight, he gets a shot at the Universal Championship at WrestleMania Backlash. Rollins then attacks Cesaro from behind again, sending him into the ring steps before throwing him back into the ring.

Cesaro beats Seth Rollins to face Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania Backlash after Jimmy Uso superkicks Rollins for telling Jey Uso to stay out of his way and shoving him when Jey puts his hands on him.

Backstage, Seth Rollins talks with Roman Reigns, asking if he should be pissed at him or pissed at Jimmy Uso. Roman says that by losing, Rollins screwed him over, as he now has to deal with Cesaro. He also says he will deal with his family. Rollins tells Roman to deal with Jimmy Uso, or he will.

We see the supermarket brawl between "Stone Cold" Steve Austin and Booker T from December 13, 2001.

Backstage, Teddy Long thanks Sonya Deville for having him tonight as well as the stipulation for tonight, and Sonya says that with Adam Pearce unavailable, it will be an honor to work with him tonight. Sami Zayn then shows up and tells Teddy Long there is a huge conspiracy against him, and asks him for an . He then finds out he will be in a tag team match with Apollo Crews against Kevin Owens, Big E, The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) and Shinsuke Nakamura. Sami also finds out that Chad Gable, Otis and King Corbin is on his team as well, then Teddy Long tries to get him to do the Teddy dance.

Backstage, Roman Reigns chews Jimmy Uso out for superkicking Seth Rollins and leaving him to deal with Cesaro. Jimmy says Roman will not talk to him like he does to Jey and that he is not "Roman's bitch."

Carmella beats Ruby Riott with the Code of Silence following a series of pinfall attempts.

We look back on Edge and Hulk Hogan winning the WWF World Tag Team Championships on July 4, 2002.

We look back on the ring imploding during Big Show vs. Brock Lesnar from June 12, 2003.

Bayley heads to the ring. Bayley says that to be in the WWE ring, you have to be a WWE Superstar, and that being a Superstar does not immediately make a great champion. She then pays tribute to Women's Champions throughout WWE history. Bayley pays tribute to Alundra Blayze, Jacqueline, Lita, Trish Stratus, Ivory, Beth Phoenix, Molly Holly and Bianca Belair. When Bayley gets to Bianca, she says that Bianca is full of potential but is naive to the world around her. She says that if Bianca is not careful, she will be like all the other women in the tribute and not on her level. She also says she sees insecurity in Bianca's eyes, and that she will beat Bianca for the SmackDown Women's Championship and prove she was right about her all along. Bianca shows up and says Bayley just cannot let her be SmackDown Women's Champion, and says he is living her best life, which will only get better after WrestleMania Backlash. She says that Bayley wishes she was insecure and that she is jealous of her confidence when she should be worried about herself, but Bayley laughs at her. When Bayley goes for a cheap shot, it has no effect, and Bianca goes to town on Bayley. When Bianca takes her earrings, however, Bayley grabs the other one and takes her down before standing on her ponytail and stomping on her before planting her into the mat.

Backstage, Jey Uso confronts Jimmy Uso, but Jimmy asks Jey Uso what has happened to him, telling him that he is only benefitting Roman before saying that he needs Jey and that they need each other. He tells Jey that the two of them should be representing the family by being tag team champions, then leaves.

We look back on John Cena's debut from June 27, 2002.

Before the next match, Dolph Ziggler says there are no better throwbacks than him and Robert Roode, then says that while he and Rey can go toe-to-toe all night long, Dominik Mysterio does not belong and is just Rey's "little kid." Ziggler tells Dominik to get out of his ring, but this leads Dominik challenging Ziggler instead of Rey.

Dominik Mysterio beats Dolph Ziggler with an inside cradle.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Reginald, Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler. Reginald says she has asked for this match because he was left with a sour taste in his mouth last week, and that Nia and Shayna will break Tamina and Natalya. Tonight, he will break Tamina's spirit, then drinks some spirits to drown out her sour presence.

We look back on Arnold Schwarzenegger's appearance on SmackDown on November 11, 1999.

Backstage, Roman Reigns tells Paul Heyman he needs his cousin. Roman looks at Paul, and Paul says "I understand."

Reginald vs. Tamina ends with Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler getting involved. Before the match, it is announced that Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler will defend the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships against Natalya and Tamina next week. After the match, Nia and Shayna brawl with Tamina and Natalya and lay them both out.

We hear from Apollo Crews, who says that tonight, he will lead his team into battle with his leadership skills. He says that his team is vulnerable apart, but unbreakable together. We then hear from Big E, who says that his team is setting their differences aside tonight and that they will throw down.

Apollo Crews, King Corbin, Sami Zayn, Chad Gable and Otis beat Big E, Shinsuke Nakamura, Kevin Owens and The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) in a ten-man tag match.

Backstage, Roman Reigns tells Jey Uso that he wants to give Jimmy Uso the same opportunities that he has given him to rise to the occasion, but he needs to see where Jimmy stands.

We look back on Vince McMahon in Eddie Guerrero's low rider from July 22, 2004.

Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Paul Heyman are in the ring. Before Roman can say much of anything, Jimmy Uso shows up. Jimmy asks Jey where he stands and brings up the "I Quit" Match between Jey and Roman from last October, and says that Jey quit for him because he did not want to see him get hurt. Jimmy then says he would have never said that he quit, and Roman chalks it up to Jimmy being stuck in the past while he and Jey have moved forward before telling Jimmy either to fall in line, stand with them and acknowledge him or go back home. Jimmy Uso leaves the ring, then Jey Uso walks up to Jimmy and asks him to acknowledge Roman so they can go back to doing their thing. Suddenly, Roman is attacked from behind by Cesaro. Jey runs to the ring but is also laid out by Cesaro. Jimmy Uso then runs to the ring and fights Cesaro only to be laid out as well, and Jey Uso is hit with a Neutralizer before Jimmy earns the same fate.

Raw Deal - Raw recap for April 5, 2021

Drew McIntyre heads to the ring to start tonight's show. McIntyre says he cannot help but think about how unique WrestleMania was last year, and this year, WrestleMania is back in business and he is fighting for the WWE Championship. He says that he cannot wait to rip Bobby Lashley to shreds, and says the difference between him and Lashley is that while Lashley is able to make up for last time when he is off the road, he cannot, as he left home early to become a pro wrestler. He says that there were times when he wanted to return home as his mother went through chemotherapy, but his mother told him to keep pushing forward. He then says that he had to sacrifice everything to get where he is. As Drew McIntyre says that he will beat Bobby Lashley for the WWE Championship and end the Almighty Era, MVP and Lashley show up, and Lashley says only one of them can be on top. Lashley says that McIntyre was a great champion, but it is his time now, then says that he saw fear in McIntyre's eye and felt it when he put him in the Hurt Lock before stating he will beat McIntyre again at WrestleMania. Lashley says he does not need help to beat him when McIntyre questions his ability, and when McIntyre proposes they fight right now, MVP tells McIntyre to wait until WrestleMania when he will lose his dignity, his consciousness and the match. McIntyre tells Lashley he will run him down and take his title at WrestleMania, but MVP says that is a lot of tough talk considering he might not even make it to WrestleMania. Suddenly, King Corbin shows up. Corbin says he agrees with MVP, saying McIntyre should not even be worried about WrestleMania, then says he started something last week and will finish it tonight when he "[whups his] punk ass" and makes it so there is no WrestleMania for McIntyre.

Backstage, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods) is met by Matt Riddle, who is concerned about how high Omos will get them, but Kofi is confident that he and Woods will retain the Raw tag team titles. On the subject of his matches against Mustafa Ali tonight and against Sheamus at WrestleMania, Riddle looks forward to them, and says he will have grind Sheamus down if he is to beat him at WrestleMania. After Riddle leaves, The New Day are left strangely craving cookies and milk.

Xavier Woods beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles after Kofi Kingston throws a microphone at Omos, distracting Styles and allowing Woods to win with an inside cradle.

Backstage, Bad Bunny and Damian Priest show up in a Bugatti.

WrestleMania 37 is five days away!

Before the next match, Braun Strowman says he has had to deal with people like Shane McMahon who bully him for his appearance when they know nothing about him, and that Shane has no idea what he has gotten himself into. He says that Shane can run his mouth all he wants, because the running ends when the steel cage door closes, and he will beat him up for anyone who has been made fun and told they will never be good enough, for Shane will be locked in the cage with him. Strowman says that after their match, after Shane lays in the middle of the ring from the agony he will put him through, he will hear "Here comes the body bag" and not "Here comes the money." Shane shows up and says that when he gave Braun a chance to pick the match he wanted, he wanted to see how his intellect has grown, and says a steel cage match is not that stupid. He says the match would work to Strowman's advantage against any other man, but he is a McMahon and will outwit him, and Strowman will wake up after WrestleMania telling himself that he is stupid.

Braun Strowman beats Elias and Jaxson Ryker in a two-on-one handicap match.

Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews The Miz and John Morrison, who are carrying paint cans. Miz and Morrison say they are artists of many talents, and vandalize Bad Bunny's Bugatti with red paint and paintbrushes.

Backstage, Bad Bunny finds out his Bugatti has ben vandalized by The Miz and John Morrison. As he surveys the damage, he is attacked from behind by Miz and Morrison. Miz tells Bad Bunny that he does not respect him before officials show up to run Miz and Morrison off and check on Bad Bunny.

Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler beat Asuka and Rhea Ripley after Ripley attacks Asuka outside of the ring.

Backstage, MVP is met by Cedric Alexander, who immediately grabs him by the collar as Shelton Benjamin shows up. Cedric tells MVP his greed will cost him, calling MVP a parasite and cripple, passed-up has-been who is leeching off Lashley. He says that while he may not beat Lashley, he will leave scars for Lashley to remember him by, and says he cannot wait for McIntyre to kick Lashley's teeth in. Shelton Benjamin tells MVP to stay out of the way as he and Cedric leave. When Sarah Schrieber shows up and interviews MVP, MVP says that Cedric and Shelton are ungrateful, saying that they are relevant, let alone recent tag champs, because of him. Lashley shows up, realizes something has happened, and says he will break Cedric in half.

Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Nia Jax and Shayna Baszler when Lana, Naomi, Mandy Rose, Dana Brooke, Natalya, Tamina, The Riott Squad (Ruby Riott and Liv Morgan), and Billie Kay show up after Nia becomes confident she and Shayna will stay tag team champions. Nia Jax mentions the women's Tag Team Turmoil match on Night One of WrestleMania and says she and Shayna have no time for arguing, then she and Shayna leave as all the teams argue with each other.

MVP guests on commentary for the next match.

Bobby Lashley beats Cedric Alexander with the Hurt Lock after Alexander cannot even defend himself. After the match, Shelton attacks Lashley to get him off of Cedric, but Lashley lays Shelton out and puts him in the Hurt Lock.

We see a video package chronicling the recent feud between Randy Orton and the recently revived Fiend.

Damian Priest and Bad Bunny head to the ring. Damian Priest says that The Miz and John Morrison crossed a line tonight due to Bad Bunny's recent musical accomplishments while Miz and Morrison are yesterday's news and Miz couldn't hold the WWE Championship for more than a week. He says Miz and Morrison haven't seen anything yet, and challenges Miz and Morrison to a tag team match against him and Bad Bunny at WrestleMania. Bad Bunny says he came here following and believing in his dreams, and says that he loves and respects the business, and talks about how he watched a lot of WWE with his family growing up, then says he does not know how to feel. He says he came here to do his job and is very grateful for the opportunity to perform "Booker T" at Royal Rumble, as he respects Booker T as he does the rest of the WWE Legends. He then says he used to love and respect The Miz, but The Miz did not respect him. Bad Bunny says that he knows that he did what he did, and while he is not a wrestler, he is a man, and Miz disrespected him for no reason. Bad Bunny says that while he respects Miz and his accomplishments, Miz disrespected him and crossed a line, and at WrestleMania, he will show Miz how to respect him, shut him up and whip his ass. Suddenly, The Miz and John Morrison are seen on the TitanTron, and Miz tells Bad Bunny that he does not belong in their world and has overstayed his welcome, and at WrestleMania, they will hurt and embarrass him and send him crawling back home. Morrison accepts Damian Priest's challenge on behalf of himself and Miz, then he and Morrison ride off in a limousine.

Backstage, Sheamus talks to Mustafa Ali, and says that they have in common a complete and utter dislike for Matt Riddle. He also tells Mustafa Ali he will be in his corner when Riddle speeds by on his scooter.

Sheamus guests on commentary for the next match.

Matt Riddle beats Mustafa Ali after countering the Tornado DDT out of the corner into the Bro Derek.

Backstage, Kevin Patrick interviews Drew McIntyre, who says that Baron Corbin would be able to make more sensible decisions than challenging him to a fight, but Corbin is a big guy who will do whatever it takes to get the job done. McIntyre says he will hit Corbin with a Claymore Kick between the eyes before going on to beat Bobby Lashley for the WWE Championship at WrestleMania.

We look back on "The Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels vs. "The Nature Boy" Ric Flair at WrestleMania 24, courtesy of Snickers.

Backstage, Sarah Schreiber interviews Bobby Lashley, who says that he would love to beat up Drew McIntyre if he makes it to WrestleMania, and says it will be difficult for McIntyre to give him an ass-whupping if he puts him to sleep with the Hurt Lock.

MVP guests on commentary for the next match.

Drew McIntyre beats King Corbin after ducking a shot from a cane given to him by MVP - who tells Corbin it's not about beating McIntyre, but taking him out - and hitting the Claymore Kick. After the match, Bobby Lashley shows up and stares down McIntyre from the stage.

Raw Talk: Braun Strowman plans to beat Shane McMahon at WrestleMania for millions around the world.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for March 5, 2021

Michael Cole interviews Daniel Bryan in the ring to start tonight's show. Cole announces that Daniel Bryan was supposed to team with Edge to face Roman Reigns and Jey Uso at Fastlane, but Daniel Bryan says nobody even asked him to be in a tag team match with Edge. He says that everyone expects him to roll with the punches and get to work and that Roman does not want to defend the WWE Universal Championship, but that he is changing how he does things and that while others want to see "Attitude Era vs. Thunderdome," he does not. After a video package of what happened at Elimination Chamber, Daniel says he has lost a lot and gotten beaten up a lot in his career, but when Edge Speared Roman and pointed at the WrestleMania sign, he felt like such a failure. Daniel says he does not have a lot of ambition, but he felt he has never had to work a day in his life for the last 21 years, and while he has put other people to the forefront while becoming more of a full-time dad, he failed himself that night. Daniel says he should be in the main event and not Edge, because he loves professional wrestling, and in the last three weeks, he has wrestled more than Edge and Roman Reigns have in the last three months. Daniel says that when he put himself on the backburner, he did a disservice to himself and what he could be: the very best. Tonight, he plans to beat Jey Uso on the road to what could be his last chance at the main event of WrestleMania. Roman Reigns, Paul Heyman and Jey Uso show up. Roman Reigns, Paul Heyman and Jey Uso show up. After the commercial break, Roman says he is looking at the same guy, but Daniel Bryan does not sound like the same guy, which is confusing both him and the audience, but Roman says that Daniel is not ambitious and is just the guy who waits for an opportunity. He also says that Daniel needs, not loves, wrestling and that love is based off need, not service, and says that he loves SmackDown because everyone needs him, including Daniel, and that Daniel will know that he needs him and will acknowledge him. Jey Uso takes the microphone out of Daniel's hand and tells him that this is the closest he will get to the Universal Championship, and instead of locking Roman out, he has locked him in. As Jey dances around, Daniel tosses him out of the ring.

Before the next match, Sami Zayn says that The Street Profits' (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) previous victory was a fluke, but King Corbin tells Sami that they are not tag partners or teammates and that he refuses to team with him, for he is a singles competitor and demands a singles match. Ford entertains the idea of a singles match, and Dawkins wants dibs on Sami Zayn, but Sami Zayn says this is not how this works. Nevertheless, the singles match is made.

King Corbin beats Montez Ford following the distraction from Sami Zayn and his documentary crew. After the match, Sami Zayn asks Corbin to re-pay the favor in the next match, but Angelo Dawkins pushes Sami off the apron and into Corbin, causing Corbin to walk off.

Angelo Dawkins beats Sami Zayn after Montez Ford acts out in front of Sami's documentary crew, distracting Sami. After the match, Sami Zayn realizes that one of his crew members is not a guy that he hired and attacks him.

Backstage, Carmella calls Reignald a snake for being around Sasha Banks all the time, then shoves his tray of wine out of his hands and fires him.

Dominik Mysterio beats Chad Gable with an inside cradle, then Rey Mysterio hits Otis with a seated senton on the announce table before headbutting the camera on the way to the ramp.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Seth Rollins, who says that Cesaro swung him around because he is afraid of him and wanted to embarrass and humiliate him. Rollins says he will not forget, then Murphy is suddenly next to Rollins. Murphy then tells Rollins he can assist him in his Cesaro situation, but Rollins tells him to get out of his sight.

Reginald trails behind Sasha Banks as Sasha makes her way to ringside for the next match.

Bianca Belair beats "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler after Bianca shoves Reginald into Nia Jax, causing Nia to charge at Reginald only to hit Sasha Banks instead. Bianca then hits a distractes Shayna with the K.O.D. for the win. After the match, Sasha slaps Reginald and tells him to stay out of her business.

Backstage, Roman Reigns tells Jey Uso that if he loses, he will embarrass him and the family, and tells him not to embarrass the family.

Seth Rollins guests on commentary for the next match.

Cesaro beats Murphy with the Sharpshooter.

Backstage, Reginald knocks on Sasha Banks' dressing room door on his way out, but Sasha wants nothing to do with him. As Reginald leaves, "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler threatens to beat him up, but Nia Jax thinks that Reginald is "kinda cute."

Next week: Big E returns!

Apollo Crews comes to the ring with a spear in his hand and two men dressed like soldiers. Apollo speaks in a Nigerian accent as he says that "this is not the new Apollo; this is the real Apollo" and that this is how he has always been. He says the two soldiers are party of a Nigerian elite guard who has protected his royal family for generations. He says that he always wanted to fit in, but people - even so-called friends - only mocked and made fun of. He says that anyone who attacks his family will be haunted for generations, and says that Big E's disrespected made him hear his ancestors telling him to claim his birthright.He says that anyone who attacks his family will be haunted for generations, and says that Big E's disrespected made him hear his ancestors telling him to claim his birthright. He also says he is happy that Big E is returning, as he is not the man he once was. He demands a rematch for the WWE Intercontinental Championship, and says he will leave Big E a broken man for the rest of his life.

Backstage, Natalya and Tamina confront Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville for not getting a shot at the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships at Fastlane, but cannot get in the match.

Backstage, Daniel Bryan attacks Jey Uso during an interview.

Backstage, Bayley reads tweets that put her in a positive light, but when she gets to the last one, she finds out it is not so positive and walks away.

Before the next match, Corey Graves is inside the steel cage talking about the steel cage before saying that Daniel Bryan and Jey Uso will leave a piece of themselves in the ring tonight.

Paul Heyman and Roman Reigns show up to watch the next match from ringside.

Daniel Bryan beats Jey Uso in a steel cage match with the Yes Lock to face Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship at Fastlane.

Layin 'da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for February 26, 2021

Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Paul Heyman head to the ring to start tonight's show. Roman Reigns says that SmackDown and the Elimination Chamber needed him, and that he answered the call and "smashed Daniel Bryan in the most exciting ass-whuppin' of the year, or maybe the decade." He says that if anybody else was in his shoes, they would have been boasting and bragging, but he does not do that because he operates at a higher level. He says if it is not perfect, it is not him, and it was not perfect because of one man: Edge. He says that Edge got one on him and Speared him on his night and made it official by pointing at the WrestleMania sign, and tells Edge "You don't want it, you don't need that in your life, Edge." He gives Edge the opportunity to walk away and go home to his family. He says that Edge is a father and a husband and does not want to hurt him, and that he likes what Edge stands for and represents. Roman also says a man like Edge does not stand a chance against a man like him. Suddenly, Daniel Bryan shows up and agrees with Roman Reigns on his Universal Championship defense being nearly perfect, then says he has heard some rumblings about some people who think Roman's defense was cowardly. He then says that he is not one of these people who want to come out and complain, but he admits he is baffled by Roman Reigns defending his championship in the second match and not the main event. Daniel Bryan tells Roman how he saw how talented he was when he first saw him, and to ensure that there are no comparisons between the two of them, he proposes Roman end it all by defending the Universal Championship against him one more time at Fastlane. Jey Uso takes the microphone from Daniel Bryan and says he lost and that all he is hearing is excuses, and if he wants Roman Reigns, he must go through him. Roman then asks Daniel Bryan if he really wants him to hurt him again, then Jey hits Bryan with a cheap shot. Roman, Jey and Heyman leave after Jey sends Daniel Bryan over the barricade.

Backstage, Edge meets with Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville concerning Daniel Bryan wanting to face Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship at Fastlane.

Backstage, Jey Uso tells Roman Reigns that he could not let Daniel Bryan disrespect him and apologizes, but Roman says there is nothing to apologize for if he gets the job done.Backstage, Edge meets with Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville. Pearce says the Fastlane Universal Championship challenge fell in his lap, and says that such a match would make for a bigger attraction at Fastlane should it happen.

Before the next match, Chad Gable brags about Rey Mysterio being squashed by Otis last week as the second rope splash on Rey is replayed.

Otis and Chad Gable beat Rey and Dominik Mysterio.

Before the next match, Apollo Crews says the fans know nothing about him and that he has been nice, humble and respectful for far too long but has not received that same respect. He says that with who he and his family is, that is unacceptable, then says he is from Nigeria and that he is "a real African-American" whose ancestors are like Nigerian royalty, one of whom was a feared king with five wives who ruled over some of the richest lands in Nigeria and whose word was law and whose power was feared. He says that his colors stand for wealth, dominance and power, and that Big E found out the hard way that those who defy him will be shown the steel, then speaks in an accent as he says Big E will not disrespect him again and that Shinsuke Nakamura will suffer the same fate. When Shinsuke Nakamura shows up for the next match, Apollo hits him with a cheap shot before the bell rings, and the referee has to stop him from striking Nakamura with the ring steps.

Apollo Crews beats Shinsuke Nakamura after pulling at his scarf into the corner, which sends Nakamura face-first into the top turnbuckle.

Backstage, Paul Heyman tells Roman Reigns that he just saw Adam Pearce, who has made it so that if Daniel Bryan wins tonight, he will get a Universal Championship match at Fastlane.

Tamina beats Liv Morgan.

Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville introduce Bianca Belair - who is about to make her WrestleMania decision - to the ring. Bianca says that her choice will define her legacy in WWE, and as she is about to announce who she will face at WrestleMania, Reginald shows up and says that if she faces Sasha Banks at WrestleMania, her dream will dissolve into a nightmare. As Bianca is about to hit Reginald with her hair, Sasha shows up and moves Reginald out of the way before telling Bianca that she is more than a champion and that she is the standard, and that if Bianca wants people to talk about her, she should face her. Sasha says that she is the best as champion while Bianca is second-best, but Bianca tells Sasha she will make her eat her words at WrestleMania, take her title and prove she is the best. She then points at the WrestleMania sign and tells Sasha it's on.

Backstage, Sami Zayn interviews King Corbin concerning the conspiracy against him. Corbin says he wants to know why they are a tag team, and Sami says this was his idea and that they have chemistry even though they hate each other. He says that he needs a win tonight after what he has went through, and that if they work together with his strategy and Corbin's strength, they could beat The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford). Corbin tells Sami not to tell him what to do and tells his crew to stop recording him.

The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) beat Sami Zayn and King Corbin after Corbin shoves one of Sami's documentary crew members, causing him to argue with Sami and allowing The Street Profits to get the win.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Daniel Bryan. Daniel Bryan says his chances of being WrestleMania spoiler are good, and that his chances of beating Roman Reigns are better than Edge's. He says that he respects Edge for what he has done, but Edge has taken a lot of time off. Edge shows up and says asks Daniel who will win at WrestleMania if he makes it that far. Daniel keeps the answer to himself, then leaves.

Seth Rollins heads to the ring. Rollins says that his complaint to WWE management got a "huge, monumental response" on social media, then Cesaro suddenly shows up. Rollins asks Cesaro to hear him out, as they go back a long way, and says what happened two weeks ago was an accident and will not happen again. He also says that he did not call Cesaro a loser, and that social media blew that out of proportion. He then tells Cesaro to stay in the middle of the ring like the star that he is, saying that he can break the glass ceiling, then asks Cesaro why he always seems to come up short and asks Cesaro what is missing before telling him he can give him a killer instinct. Rollins says he returned to SmackDown to lead the future, and says that he can start leading with Cesaro if Cesaro lets him give him the ability to take the brass ring, saying that if they teamed up, they would be unstoppable. Rollins also says that if he listened to him two weeks ago, he could have won on Sunday and become WWE Universal Championship, then tells Cesaro that it is never too late to start again and that all he has to do is embrace the vision. Rollins then gives Cesaro a week to think it over, and that he will be waiting for his answer. Cesaro grabs Rollins by the legs and swings him around before laying him out with a European uppercut.

Jey Uso vs. Daniel Bryan ends in a double count-out. After the match, Daniel Bryan puts Jey Uso in the Yes Lock, but he is pummeled by Roman Reigns. Bryan puts Roman in the Yes Lock, but Jey saves Roman with a superkick to Bryan. Roman Spears Bryan, then puts him in a guillotine choke.

Talking Smack: Daniel Bryan agrees to a steel cage rematch against Jey Uso next week. If he wins, he gets a Universal Championship match at Fastlane. If he loses, he must acknowledge Roman Reigns as the tribal chief and the head of the table.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for February 19, 2021

Edge heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Edge contemplates which championship to challenge for, and says that Roman Reigns is playing a smart game by having the challenger go through an Elimination Chamber match just to get to him, giving him thirteen possible opponents to have to contend with. After Edge says that he has to make a decision, Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Paul Heyman show up. Roman says he is the only opponent that Edge that has to worry about, and says he can either pick a main event or "the main eventer." Edge tells Roman that what he saw in his eyes was not fear, but a man who played him like a fiddle, and says that Roman lost his cool with him last week, which confirmed that Roman is insecure and needs him to be the main event. He also says that he sees a young man in his prime firing on every cylinder, and while he respects him and his family, he is cracking to pressure he has not applied to him yet and asks if Roman really wants him to focus on him and expose his weakness. Suddenly, Sami Zayn shows up with his documentary crew and says it is one thing to be disrespected by WWE management, but it is another thing to be disrespected by two of the biggest stars in WWE. Sami says that WWE did not want him in the Elimination Chamber match for the WWE Universal Championship match, but he plowed his way through it, and tells both Sami and Roman that he is the real threat and the champion of the people. Sami asks his documentary crew to capture him pointing at the WrestleMania sign, for that is where he is going. Instead, Jey Uso superkicks Sami Zayn, then Roman whispers something into Edge's ear after Paul Heyman takes Roman's microphone.

Big E guests on commentary - complete with his own couch, foot bath and TV dinner - for the next match.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Apollo Crews, who says that he has always respected Big E for telling him to make his own opportunities. He then says that he is not a charity case after being told to go back to catering as Big E called for the next challenger, and that Big E never respected him and never even took the time to get to know him, and says his ancestors are Nigerian royalty. He says that if Big E talked to his ancestors like he did to him, he would have lost his tongue. Apollo then says that Big E is intimidated by him, and that he will get what he deserves.

Shinsuke Nakamura beats Apollo Crews after pinning Apollo to the mat as he goes for an arm bar. After the match, Apollo attacks Nakamura. Big E tells Apollo to "walk," and that "it is done." As Big E helps Nakamura up, Apollo attacks Big E with the ring steps and clotheslines Nakamura over the guardrail before telling Big E it is not over until he says it is over. Apollo then throws the ring steps into the ring before tossing Big E in, then grabs the ring steps again. The ref stops Apollo from attacking again as Big E rolls out of the ring, and when the ref tells him to put the steps down, he drops them on Big E. Medical staff tend to Big E as referees keep Apollo back.

Big E is taken to the back on a stretcher as Seth Rollins shows up. He says that what happened to Big E is a tragedy, as is being betrayed by one's friends, and says he knows a thing or two about that after the locker room walked out on him. He says that he understands Big E's pain, then shows the footage from last week of his return, the SmackDown locker room walking out on him and his attack on Cesaro for telling him he has not changed one bit. Rollins calls this emotional trauma, says he is still suffering and says that this is unacceptable anywhere, much less the workplace, and says he has delivered a formal complaint to WWE officials and that legal action is pending. He says that he and his legal team will win, and states that months went into his big moment, and that his return to SmackDown was ruined by "a bunch of losers and a bunch of cowards" because they are afraid and want to divide him and the fans. He says that the locker room knows that there are millions who have followed the vision for a better SmackDown and a better tomorrow, and that the biggest loser of them all is Cesaro for taking his homecoming and making it about us. Rollins says that Cesaro embarrassed and patronized him and his followers and waited until he was last to disrespect him, and says that Cesaro was asking for it. He says that what happened to Cesaro will happen to whoever stands in the way, for he and millions have already embraced the vision.

Backstage, Edge meets with Kevin Owens. Edge says he appreciates Owens for getting back up after being knocked down, and Owens says he can relate to Edge after coming close to beating Roman Roman for the Universal title three times. Owens says that all he can picture is himself beating Roman for the title, and Edge wishes him luck.

Backstage, Big E is placed in an ambulance by Sonya Deville, Adam Pearce and a medical worker.

Tamina and Natalya beat The Riott Squad (Ruby Riott and Liv Morgan) after Billie Kay shows up wearing cat ears, proving to be a distraction to The Riott Squad. After the match, Billie celebrates with Tamina and Natalya only to get superkicked by Tamina.

We see footage of Sasha Banks at the Daytona 500.

Backstage, Edge is met by King Corbin, who says that it feels like the main event of WrestleMania before telling Edge that SmackDown is his kingdom. He says that the next time he sees someone in a $10,000 shirt and a $39,000 watch, he should bow down. Edge then brags about his smartphone as he refuses to take Corbin seriously.

It's time for Ding Dong, Hello! Tonight's guests are Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler. Bayley says that Nia and Shayna taking the women's tag team titles from her allowed her to get rid of Sasha Banks and become her own person, and says she might get Ellen DeGeneres' show. Nia and Shayna then proceed to mock Sasha and Bianca Belair. As they do, Reginald shows up and says he will not let them slander Sasha's good name, comparing Sasha to a fine wine while comparing Nia and Shayna to box wine, and says that Sasha is the best champion in the world. After Reginald tells Nia and Shayna that they would be former tag champions if they were to take on Sasha and Bianca, Sasha shows up and tells Reginald not to speak for her before telling Nia and Sasha that she is the boss and that she makes the rules. After Sasha says that Bianca will challenge her at WrestleMania because the world revolves around her, Bianca shows up and tells Reginald she is nobody's side chick before telling Sasha that she is the star of this division and that people get beat by her. Reginald gets between Bianca and Sasha that they are all on the same team and that they should be facing Bayley, Nia and Shayna, and proposes a six-person tag match. Nia calls for a referee, and the show goes to break.

Reginald, Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair beats Nia Jax, "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler and Bayley following a double drop kick on Nia, who has Reginald caught following a cross body attempt.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Cesaro, who says that he was respecting Seth Rollins and was hoping that he would make a big comeback, but in the end, Rollins was the same guy as he was before he left. Cesaro says that he will win tonight's six-man tag match and then face Roman Reigns for the WWE Universal Championship. Suddenly, Edge shows up and says that Cesaro has grit, and Cesaro tells him that he will see him in the main event at WrestleMania.

Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode guest on commentary for the next match.

Rey and Dominik Mysterio beat Chad Gable and Otis by disqualification when Chad Gable refuses to leave the ring while Otis squashes Rey Mysterio. After the match, Otis hits Rey with a splash from the second rope.

Backstage, Edge meets with Daniel Bryan, saying that Daniel getting his wheels spinning got his wheels spinning. Daniel asks Edge to face him for the Universal Championship at WrestleMania when he wins it, with both men agreeing it is a long overdue dream match.

Dominik Mysterio and a referee helps Rey Mysterio to the back.

Backstage, Kevin Owens meets up with Daniel Bryan and Cesaro, who bring up Owens' history of turning on people. Owens says he saw Daniel Bryan and Cesaro come at him last week and decided to strike first. Owens says that he wants to win tonight's match and that they should not worry about a Stunner or three until Sunday.

Backstage, Carmella chews out Reginald for being in the ring and partnering with Sasha Banks, then tells Reginald that she knows he will do the right thing and hopes it does not come to what happens if he doesn't. She then spits out her wine and tells Reginald to get her another glass after saying that the taste is disgusting.

Bianca Belair and Sasha Banks vs. Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships is official for Elimination Chamber.

Edge guests on commentary for the next match. Paul Heyman guests on commentary for the match after the commercial break.

Kevin Owens, Daniel Bryan and Cesaro beat Sami Zayn, King Corbin and Jey Uso in a six-man tag match with a top rope double underhook suplex into the Yes Lock from Daniel Bryan to Sami Zayn. After the match, everyone in the match attacks each other. Edge hits Jey Uso with a Spear, but he is soon laid out himself by a Spear from Roman Reigns to end the show.

Talking Smack: Paul Heyman tries to get answers out of Apollo Crews.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for February 12, 2021

Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Paul Heyman head to the ring to start tonight's show. Adam Pearce is already in the ring. Roman tells Pearce that he is here to wait on him and that he is the one to call the shots, not Pearce. Roman also says that Edge looked him in the eye and got scared because he knows what he will do to him: beat him so bad that Edge will be on a Legends contract. Roman says that Edge will not pick him after Elimination Chamber because he is scared, and that he will not drop the Universal Championship until he chooses to. Pearce then announces the contract in his hand is for a Chamber match much like Drew McIntyre's. When Roman is told that he will defend the WWE Universal Championship in the Elimination Chamber, Paul Heyman says that while Elimination Chamber is built around the Universal Champion, Roman does not have to defend at the event. He tells Pearce to put anyone he wants in the match, as the last person standing can get a shot at Roman Reigns and the WWE Universal Championship. Pearce says there will be qualifying matches, and that there will also be two men in the Elimination Chamber match immediately: Jey Uso and Kevin Owens. Roman confronts Pearce outside of the ring and stares him down, and Heyman has to talk Roman out of it.

We see a vignette for Seth Rollins, who returns later tonight.

Backstage, Adam Pearce is met by Sonya Deville, who is impressed with Pearce's refusal to back down to Roman Reigns before announcing a tag team qualifying match where the winning team qualifies for the Elimination Chamber match.

Before the next match, Sami Zayn says that WWE management has not only stood by and let Big E steal the WWE Intercontinental Championship and also forced him to team with King Corbin to qualify for the Elimination Chamber Match. Sami says he and Corbin usually do not see eye to eye, but he and Corbin are on the same page and he is happy to have his documentary team to film the match, as WWE would love to see Rey and Dominik Mysterio win before saying that will not happen. Rey and Dominik knock Sami off the ring apron before the bell rings.

King Corbin and Sami Zayn beat Rey and Dominik Mysterio to qualify for the SmackDown Elimination Chamber Match.

Backstage, Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode meet with Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville about qualifying for the Elimination Chamber match. Sonya says they can both earn spots in the match in a tag team match against Daniel Bryan and Cesaro.

Backstage, Reginald is met by Sasha Banks and Kalisto. Reginald apologizes for his recent actions, and Sasha tells Reginald to send Carmella her regards after Reginald says he meant it when he said Sasha could beat Bianca Belair.

Big E enters the ring. He talks about how he defended and retained the WWE Intercontinental Championship in a Triple Threat Match last week, and upholds his vow to be a fighting champion before Apollo Crews shows up. Apollo says he knows Big E is in the ring to issue an open challenge for the Intercontinental Championship, and accepts the challenge. Big E says he was going to issue an open challenge, but it was going to be for anyone besides Apollo. Big E tells Apollo he has given him opportunity after opportunity, then tells him to go to the back, because he is done with him. He then asks for his next challenger to be brought out, and that challenger is Shinsuke Nakamura.

Big E retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship by disqualification against Shinsuke Nakamura after he is dropkicked by Apollo Crews.

The locker room empties to fill the ringside area for Seth Rollins' return. After the commercial break, Rollins says it feels good to be back, and says a lot has changed since he sacrificed himself at Survivor Series, but in his absence, what has changed the most is him, as he has recently become a father for the first time. Seth Rollins returns to his pre-Messiah music while dressed in an all-black suit and red necktie. He says that change has given him a new perception and vision, and looking around the ring gives him a glimpse of some of the most talented people in the industry while posing where he fits in. He then says that he is the great leader that SmackDown needs to push it into the future and make it greater than it already is, as success and leadership is not about what the locker room can do for him, but what he can do for the locker room. As he continues to speak, the locker room walks out on him and heads to the back, and Rollins says that for a better SmackDown, all one has to do is embrace the vision. Rollins then notices that Cesaro is the only person left at ringside. Rollins says he knew Cesaro would understand, but even Cesaro walks out on him, telling Rollins that he has not changed one bit. Rollins changes at Cesaro and hits him with a chop block as he heads to the back. Rollins then proceeds to attack Cesaro, and as referees try to keep Rollins from Cesaro, Daniel Bryan runs to Cesaro's aid and punches Rollins in the face, forcing Rollins to retreat.

Bayley beats Liv Morgan by raking Liv Morgan's eyes while Billie Kay tries to apologize to Ruby Riott at ringside, something that Ruby Riott is not in the mood for.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Cesaro and Daniel Bryan. Cesaro will still wrestle tonight, saying Seth Rollins wasted everyone's time with his nonexistent change. Daniel Bryan goes to say that Cesaro is a tough individual.

The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) award NASCAR racer Chase Elliott with a WWE Championship belt. In return, they get custom race car helmets and custom orange Solo cups.

The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) beat Chad Gable and Otis after stopping their spinning clothesline/Saito suplex double team cold.

Sasha Banks heads to the ring. She says that everyone is talking about Bianca Belair and her decision on who to face for a championship, and while she likes Bianca a lot, she says she is the person to face. Bianca shows up and says Sasha is not the boss of her, but as she speaks, she is interrupted by Nia Jax and "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler. Nia says that Sasha and Bianca are insufferable due to their egos, and Shayna wants to know why she and Nia are being ignored when they won the women's tag team titles for a second time. After showing footage from Raw - including the footage where Nia Jax missed a leg drop and screamed "My hole," before being put through a table - Sasha and Bianca are forced into a brawl with Nia and Shayna, but Bianca and Sasha trip Nia on the apron again. Sasha and Bianca then make quick work of Shayna as they clean out the ring.

Daniel Bryan and Cesaro beat Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode with a Sharpshooter from Cesaro to Ziggler to qualify for the SmackDown Elimination Chamber Match. During the match, Sami Zayn and King Corbin show up to get a closer look at the match. After the match, Cesaro is hit from behind with a steel chair by Jey Uso before Sami Zayn and King Corbin attack Daniel Bryan before taking the boots to Jey Uso. Sami then attacks Corbin, then everyone brawls as Kevin Owens shows up to join in. Owens gives Stunners to just about everyone in the ring, then sits in a chair and tells Roman Reigns he is coming for him and that he is not going away to end the show.

Talking Smack: Daniel Bryan messes with Paul Heyman.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for February 5, 2021

In memory of "The Natura'" Butch Reed, 1954 - 2021.

Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Paul Heyman head to the ring to start tonight's show. Roman says he is not here to dwell on the past before mentioning that he beat Kevin Owens like he said he would, for he is a man of his word, then focuses on the future, which he says is Edge. Roman mentions Edge's Royal Rumble win, then says he is the main event around here and asks Edge why he would waste time on Raw or NXT when he can come to his show and grovel at his feet while selling him on putting him on the island of relevancy. He then asks Paul Heyman why he is out here first and asks where Edge is, and considers it disrespectful to be left waiting before demanding Edge head to the ring. Heyman and Roman then find out Edge is not here. Roman takes his as Edge taking him as a fool and playing games with him, and says the last man to play games with him with Kevin Owens, who he says is "no longer here anymore" after he "whupped his ass." Roman then tells Edge that he will give him his decision by the end of the night.

Dominik Mysterio beats King Corbin after Rey Mysterio gets under the ring and grabs Corbin by the leg, allowing Dominik to hit the 619.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Big E, who says he has had to fight all of his life and that he signed up for that when he won the Intercontinental Championship. He is taking on all challengers, and says Apollo Crews and Sami Zayn are not ready for him.

Sasha Banks will be the honorary starter of the Daytona 500 on February 14th.

Cesaro beats Daniel Bryan with the Sharpshooter despite receiving a nasty cut to the head during the match. After the match, Cesaro approaches Daniel Bryan in the corner, and they fist bump.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Bianca Belair. After we see Bianca's parents' reaction to Bianca winning the Royal Rumble, Bianca says her parents will always be with her. As for who she will face for a championship at WrestleMania, Bianca says this is the biggest decision of her life and that she will be ready to make it soon.

We see a vignette for Seth Rollins, who returns next week.

Billie Kay guests on commentary for the next match.

Bayley beats Ruby Riott after Liv Morgan stops Billie Kay from interfering when Billie pushes the bottom rope towards Ruby with her foot.

WrestleMania 37 is 64 days away!

Edge is backstage in the arena.

Bianca Belair heads to the ring. Bianca says that her whole life changed overnight when she won the women's Royal Rumble match, but as she talks about her potential opponents, Reginald shows up and tries to sway her into facing Asuka, saying she cannot beat Sasha Banks or Carmella. Carmella shows up and says Reginald is a wise man even when he gets a little overexcited, then talks about how she beat Sasha in their very first match before stating she beat Sasha twice and that she can beat Bianca. Suddenly, Sasha arrives and says she is focused on the road ahead, then says Bianca has her attention after setting some Royal Rumble records and that Bianca is almost everything she says she is. Sasha tells Bianca to choose her, saying Bianca has everything except the championship. Reginald butts in and says that if Bianca chooses Sasha, she will lose. Bianca responds by whipping Reginald with her ponytail.

Backstage, Roman Reigns finds out from Paul Heyman that Edge is in the building.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Sami Zayn, who calls Braxton "a corporate shill" and says countless injustices have been made against him before stating that he will reclaim the Intercontinental Championship and his status as champion of the people.

The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) provide commentary for the next match via a window in the lower-right corner of the screen.

Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode beat Otis and Chad Gable.

We hear from Hulk Hogan, who talks about the match where he lost the WWE Championship to Andre the Giant on the February 5, 1988 episode of The Main Event, which ended his first WWE Championship reign that lasted around four years. Hulk Hogan talks about the match, saying it makes him think about Edge's big championship match decision. He says Drew McIntyre and Roman Reigns are in trouble, as Edge was his tag team partner and has Hulkamaniacs watching his back.

Big E retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Apollo Crews and Sami Zayn in a Triple Threat Match.

Edge heads to the ring. Edge says you cannot accomplish something you cannot dream of, and as he was rehabbing his triceps injury, he was dreaming of coming back and main eventing WrestleMania, and now he is doing just that. He then contemplates whether to pick the WWE, Universal or NXT Championship, then Roman Reigns, Jey Uso and Paul Heyman show up. Edge asks Roman if he is sweating him after bring Heyman and Jey with him, saying he showed up alone, and Roman says that without his blessing, Heyman would not make a move on him, then tells Jey he will meet them at the bus, as he has got this. Roman, already feeling disrespected by Edge, demands Edge acknowledge him as the main event, call him the champion of choice and say his name. Suddenly, Roman is hit with a Stunner from behind by Kevin Owens.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for January 29, 2021

Daniel Bryan is already in the ring at the start of tonight's show. Daniel says he can feel the excitement boiling inside of him, as he has accomplished a lot in WWE but has never won a Royal Rumble match and went on to WrestleMania, and nobody knows how life-changing it is more than him. He says that to do it one more time means to outlast and eliminate 29 other men, then admits he does not know how many WrestleMania moments he has left before saying he must win the Royal Rumble match to make it to WrestleMania one more time. As Daniel says that Alpha Academy (Chad Gable and Otis) has made him ready for anything and everything in the Royal Rumble match, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos show up. Styles says he will be the one tossing 29 other men over the top rope to earn his rightful spot at WrestleMania, then Daniel Bryan asks Styles what he is doing. Omos says it is "the quarterly brand-to-brand invitational" before Styles says he is "the gatekeeper for Raw." Styles says that as he has gone to Raw, others have tried to follow in his footsteps, but they have to go through him first, and he has crushed all of their dreams. He then says Daniel Bryan is not dressed for the ring and has "one foot out the door." Daniel says he does not have one foot out of anything, then challenges Styles to a match. Styles says he has gotten ready for Sunday by beating everyone on Raw and would love to have one more warm-up with Daniel Bryan on SmackDown before shoving Daniel. When Daniel gets back up, Omos stands directly in front of him, and Daniel tells Styles that if he was a real man with any guts whatsoever, he would show up for their match without Omos, then says he will stick kick Styles' ass with or without Omos.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Bayley. Bayley says that Bianca Belair was writhing in pain after she shoved her into the basketball hoop last week, then says she saw her WWE Chronicle episode and says she is proud of her before saying she ran from her problems for half of her life. Bayley says she will beat Bianca Belair again and send her crawling back to the "dark-EST hole of her life."

Bianca Belair beats Bayley despite Bayley targeting her left arm during the match. After the match, Kayla Braxton interviews Bianca on the stage. Bianca says she will never apologize for being herself, and while Bayley is not her role model, she admits she is good, and that beating her after all that has happened is the biggest win of her career. She says that the only thing better than beating Bayley is winning the women's Royal Rumble match and bringing the "EST" to WrestleMania.

Backstage, Cesaro is seen talking with "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and Omos.

Dominik Mysterio attacks King Corbin before the next match, and Rey Mysterio guests on commentary.

King Corbin beats Dominik Mysterio. After the match, Corbin grabs Rey Mysterio as he is about to check on Dominik, but Rey fights back.

Backstage, Big E tries to bribe Sonya Deville with one dollar to see what his Royal Rumble number is when The Miz and John Morrison show up looking for Adam Pearce. Big E asks Miz and Morrison what they are doing here, and Miz and Morrison say that they are playing the smart game. Sonya leaves, and as Big E is about to leave, Miz and Morrison mock him before Big E tells them they have no chance of winning the Royal Rumble. This starts a brawl that is quickly broken up.

Tomorrow at 8 PM Eastern on WWE Backstage, there will be a match between Natalya and Tamina, with the winner entering the women's Royal Rumble at #30.

Backstage, Sasha Banks is welcomed by Kalisto before running into Reginald, who is carrying a bottle of wine as he says that he coms in peace with gifts from Carmella, saying the wine goes best with her losing the SmackDown Women's Championship. Sasha flirts with Reginald, asking if he freelances before asking what the best wine is for Carmella when she has a broken jaw, then gives the wine back before telling Reginald he could use a drink.

Backstage, Shinsuke Nakamura is met by Sami Zayn, who thinks that members of Raw being on tonight's show is suspicious, then asks what went wrong between him, Nakamura and Cesaro before asking for Nakamura's help in dealing with the powers that be. Sami says that everything that Nakamura has accomplished in WWE is because of him, and when he asks for Nakamura to watch his back, Nakamura says he appreciates what he has done for him before telling him to go to Hell.

Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens have a side-by-side interview. Kevin says Roman has won twice because of his family, but says that Sunday is Last Man Standing and that there is nothing Roman or his family can do to keep him from standing up and be last man standing. Paul Heyman tells Owens he will not address Roman in a disrespectful and irreverent manner, then Owens asks Roman if he will let Heyman "rehash the same crap he has done for everyone else." Roman, deciding to see what makes Owens tick, asks him about his family, and asks him about his father. Owens says his father is a great man, then tells Roman to watch where he is going. Roman asks if he is a smart man, to which Owens says yes. Owens then tells Roman to watch where he goes next, then Roman says he wants to understand why Owens does not see his own limitations before saying that his father did not teach him, stating that Owens is just a pawn and is not bred for the business while he is a king. Roman says Owens is un-equipped and inferior and not Universal Championship material, and that Owens' family is to blame. He says that Owens is a fool for thinking he has a chance, and if Owens is a fool, so is his father and his father's father. Owens says his parents and grandparents are and were important to him for being there in his career since the beginning, and again tells Roman to watch where he goes next. Roman says that Owens still does not understand, and that when he meets his grandparents again, he will know. Roman then calls Owens a disgrace to his family. Owens says the only thing his parents and grandparents would want him to acknowledge Roman as is a pretentious jackass who only wants to hear what he wants to hear, while he sees himself as what his family really sees him as. Roman then turns the monitor on his side of the discussion off as Owens says he will be last man standing.

Before the next match, Omos shows up to accompany "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles at first, but then lets Styles head to the ring alone.

Special Olympics athletes are seen on the Thunderdome screens before the next match.

Cesaro guests on commentary for the next match.

Daniel Bryan beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles by disqualification. During the match, Sami Zayn shows up and complains about not being on tonight's show, and says that he will not be silenced. Later on in the match, Big E shows up and clotheslines Sami Zayn and throws him into the announce table. Cesaro gets up and shoves Big E before hitting him with a big boot, then Daniel Bryan hits Cesaro and Sami with a tope suicida. Sami Zayn then gets in the ring and attacks Daniel Bryan ending the match, and this starts a brawl with everyone around the ring. Shinsuke Nakamura then shows up and joins in, and he ends up cleaning house with Big E and Daniel Bryan.

Daniel Bryan, Big E and Shinsuke Nakamura beat "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Cesaro and Sami Zayn by disqualification after The Miz and John Morrison show up and get involved, ending the match after attacking Big E. Suddenly, Otis runs into the ring and takes out Miz and Morrison.

Sheamus shows up during Daniel Bryan, Big E, Shinsuke Nakamura and Otis vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Cesaro, Sami Zayn, The Miz and John Morrison, making the next match a proper ten-man tag team match.

Daniel Bryan, Big E, Shinsuke Nakamura, Otis and Sheamus beat "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles, Cesaro, Sami Zayn, The Miz and John Morrison. After the match, Sheamus is ganged up on, then a slimmed-down Braun Strowman shows up for the first time in weeks and wreaks havoc in the ring, laying out Cesaro with a running powerslam.

Here are the top ten moments from tonight's show!

Talking Smack: Daniel Bryan, Otis and Chad Gable show Paul Heyman it's all in the hips.