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.
Finn Balor heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Finn says that he cannot help but think about 2016 when he thinks about SummerSlam, when he had the best and worst night of his career when he went from winning the WWE Universal Championship only to relinquish it due to injury. He says he has been scratching and clawing for the last ten years to regain the glory of that night, and as he says that he has the fans behind him and he is close to getting back to where he was, Sami Zayn shows up. Sami says that while this is an emotional time for Finn, he has something to get off his chest. Sami says he should be in the WWE Championship match, and says he would love to see "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes as champion again as he already beat him to become champion and he can do it again. Sami also admits that a part of him would like CM Punk to retain before calling Punk "the biggest fraud and the biggest piece of garbage," then says that Punk has since become "Corporate Poster Boy #2." After stating that he wants to take the title back from the man who stole it from him, Sami says he has respect for Finn, and Finn dares Sami to come to the ring and say what he has to say to him to his face. Sami says he has respect for Finn and that everyone knows how great Finn is, stating he should have been a world champion several times over. He tells Finn to take a pulse of this moment, and recognize that is belongs to him. He says that Finn had his time, and now it is his time, and says that taking the WWE Championship back is bigger than the both of them and that it is about "justice for Sami." Finn asks where the justice for him, saying that this is his moment. Sami says that if Finn took ten years to get to this point, he should take the hint. Finn reminds Sami that he was world champion longer than him and that he lost the title because he lost the match. Sami says that "almost sounds like fighting words," and if he did not respect Finn, he would have dropped him where he stood. He then says he will not do that, as he is "a good guy" and "the last real good guy left around here." He tells Finn he will walk away and see him at SummerSlam. Before Finn can answer back, both men are suddenly attacked by Gunther, who declares himself the rightful #1 contender to the WWE Championship. General Manager Adam Pearce shows up with security, and Gunther wants to know what he has to do to get what he considers his, and asks if he has to beat Pearce's ass as well. Gunther is attacked from behind by Finn, and Sami shows up and fights with Finn over Gunther. Gunther attacks both men again, then Nick Aldis shows up and brawls with Gunther. Security has to separate both men as Aldis puts Gunther in a Texas Cloverleaf, and Gunther hits Aldis with a big boot.
"Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab beat Tiffany Stratton and Chelsea Green after Jade Cargill attacks Tiffany Stratton on the outside behind the referee's back. After the match, Charlotte Flair shows up. Tiffany and Chelsea pull Michin and B-Fab out of the ring and brawl with them, then Charlotte gets in the ring and brawls with Cargill. Charlotte soon comes out on top.
Fraxiom and Rey Fenix are met by "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh, who are looking for Danhausen. Fenix says he has not, and Dominik accuses Fenix of hiding in Mexico before saying that The Judgment Day are looking for more gold and that the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship would look good on McDonagh. Fenix accepts the challenge.
We hear from Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga. Tama says they have forgotten who they are, and leaving Solo Sikoa was the right move. Talla says they lost sight of chasing gold, and Tama says that it took guts to strike out on their own. Talla says that from now, they take care of family first. Haku shows up and says these are the sons that he needs, and tells them not to forget who they are, for they are the sons of Haku. He tells them to go and "make them fear us again."
Damian Priest and R-Truth beat The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) in a title-for-title match by disqualification after The War Raiders shove referee Charles Robinson to get to Damian Priest and R-Truth. Damian Priest and R-Truth retain the WWE Tag Team Championships, and The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) retain the AAA World Tag Team Championships. After the match, both teams continue to brawl until they are both attacked by Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga, who are soon joined by Haku.
We see house show footage from last night in Springfield, Illinois where "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and CM Punk get physical with each other post-match.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews CM Punk, who says that this is competition and that he and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes are running away from their match and the fact that they do not need to be friends. He says that he takes on all comers and he will still walk out champion against Cody. Suddenly, Trick Williams shows up and says Punk should be glad he lost, and that sooner or later, he will come for the WWE Championship. Punk likes Trick's confidence and says he wanted him to win, and tells him that he does make it to the title match, he will whoop that trick.
We hear from Nick Aldis, who says that while it was an honor to be SmackDown General Manager, he wanted to make it to WWE as a wrestler. He says he was happy about being a General Manager, however, until Gunther put his hands on him and pushed him too far.He says that Gunther left him no choice but to lace up his boots and face Gunther like a man.
Members of the Green Bay Packers are seen in the front row.
Trick Williams heads to the ring. Trick gets straight to business and talks about Baron Corbin attacking him last week, calling him "a big-ass Tommy Pickles" before calling him out. Corbin shows up and says Trick loves to hear the sound of his own voice, and that while he was away, he learned some valuable lessons about patience, which Trick knows nothing about, then says that Trick's self-importance will be his downfall when he wraps his arms around his neck. Trick says that Baron Corbin is no badder than he was the first time around and that all he is collecting is a foot up his ass. Corbin teases the both of them going at it right now, then says that Trick is "a dumb rookie who doesn't understand." He then proclaims that on Sunday, he is taking the United States Championship, and there is nothing in the world that Trick Williams can do about it. Trick tells Corbin there will be no title taking as the fans chant "Whoop that trick."
We see a video package chronicling the feud between Brock Lesnar and Oba Femi leading up to their Hell in a Cell Match.
Rey Fenix retains the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship against JD McDonagh after Danhausen and the Minihausens show up and attack "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio before chasing him to the back.
We see a video package briefly chronicling the history between Seth "Freakin'" Rollins and Roman Reigns.
Lash Legend beats Giulia in an Interim WWE Women's Championship Ladder Match qualifier.
We see "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes grab a pair of dog chains before we hear Guile's theme from Street Fighter II followed by the Street Fighter II announcer saying "Fight!"
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. As Cody does his usual stage theatrics on the stage, Punk's theme hits, and Punk pats Cody on the head on the way to the ring. Punk asks Cody how it feels, and Cody says that he can see through him and that they are way past the point that they are running towards each other. Punk says that he hopes he has ruffled feathers, because when he gets a title shot in his hometown, he is going to take it, and that he knew this would set them on a path. He says that he does not have to be Cody's friend tonight or tomorrow and that it is up to Cody if they are still friends, and Punk wants to know who is the better man between them "for business purposes." Cody says that this has become personal not just to Punk, but to everyone who has not held the WWE Championship, which makes Punk the best in the world, and mentions his "I didn't come back to make friends; I came back to make money" line. Punk says he did not come back to make friends, but he did not come back to lose friends, and that tomorrow is not looking good for Cody. Cody says that Punk is prepared for what will happen tomorrow, and asks what Punk will do about it tonight. Punk lays the WWE Championship between them and takes off his jacket and his friendship bracelet before saying "Say when." Cody does the same, tossing his jacket into the crowd as Punk dares Cody to punch him in the jaw. Cody punches Punk, and both men brawl. Cody clotheslines Punk out of the ring before they brawl on the outside where officials rush in to separate both men. Punk and Cody punch at each other on the announce table until they are both pulled off, and they soon brawl again as the show ends.
An angry Gunther shows up from out of the crowd and destroys the Italian comentary table before clearing the English commentary table, then takes a microphone. He says that the show will not start until he gets justice for what happened at Clash in Italy, as he lost despite his foot being under the bottom rope. He also says that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes cheated and did not beat him. As he looks into the camera and addresses Cody, Cody shows up and slowly makes his way to the ring as he always does before addressing Gunther. Cody says that Gunther is right in his claim, then says that Gunther is a twenty-year pro and is being "big mad" about how he is handling it. He then says they can have their rematch right here tonight. Suddenly, Sami Zayn shows up and greets his "ride or die fans" for giving him the respect he has been looking for. He says he wanted Cody and Gunther to handle their own business, then says he knows where Gunther is coming from. He then says that both men did him wrong and neither man seems to note that, and when Gunther tells Sami to get out of his ring so they can handle World Championship business, Sami says he might not have held a world title, yet he knows about beating Gunther for championships. Cody wants to know what side Sami is on right now, and Sami says that Cody is always blowing him off and looking towards the next threat when he should realize that the biggest threat might be him. Cody says "Is that so?" Sami tells Cody that he said he would beat Gunther and teach him a lesson, then says he beat Gunther and wants to know when Cody will teach that lesson. Gunther goes on the attack, and this time, Sami fights Gunther when he goes for a sleeper on Cody. Cody hits Sami with a tope suicida meant for Gunther, and when Cody offers to help Sami up, Sami gets up and walks away.
The Miz finds out on the phone that Kit Wilson is not here due to his four emotional support cats, then The Miz lets Kit Wilson what he is doing to foil Danhausen's plans. Danhausen shows up, and The Miz starts messing with stuff until he shocks himself. Danhausen then finds some food on the floor and eats it.
Backstage, Gunther confronts General Manager Nick Aldis. He says that instead of being treated like a gift, he is treated like he does not belong. Aldis insists Gunther has always been treated with respect, but Gunther demands Aldis fix everything or else he will be drowning in so many lawsuits his grandchildren will need a lawyer.
We are introduced to the Italian commentary team of Michele Posa and Luca Franchini.
Raquel Rodriguez beats Kiana James, Jacy Jayne and Bayley to advance in the Queen of the Ring Tournament after Jacy yanks Kiana's feet off the middle rope, costing her the win, and Kiana blames Giulia for it. After the match, Kiana rebukes and shoves Giulia away when Giulia tries to help her up, and continues to blame Giulia for the loss before stating it is over. Giulia responds by hitting her with a Lou Thesz press and punching her, then knocking her out of the ring.
Backstage, Sami Zayn smacks another water bottle, then finds Johnny Gargano planking on a road crate and tells him about what happened tonight. General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and tells Sami Zayn to stay out of "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes' and Gunther's business, but Sami says they made their business his business, but Aldis tells Sami he made it worse. Aldis then says he has no time for Sami, and Sami asks who is so important that Aldis cannot give him a minute. Chad Gable shows up, mius the El Grande Americano mask, and stares Sami down before heading into Aldis' office.
Talla Tonga beats Royce Keys after Solo Sikoa distracts the referee and Tama Tonga distracts Royce Keys. After the match, Tama and Talla continue to go on the attack on Royce Keys. R-Truth runs into the ring, but he also gets attacked. Damian Priest shows up and pulls R-Truth out of the ring. With Priest and R-Truth gone, Tama Tonga hits Royce Keys with Cutthroat.
Backstage, Raquel Rodriguez shows up as The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio) talk amongst each other. They celebrate Raquel's win, then Dominik says he will win the match so that The Judgment Day will win all the gold.
We hear from Finn Balor, who says that he has proven himself time and time again in this business, and that in any night, any situation and any match, he will shine every time an opportunity falls his way. He says that he can stand toe-to-toe with the best, but he wants it all. Finn Balor is part of the SmackDown roster now, and he will make his debut in the King of the Ring Tournament next week.
Backstage, Damian Priest wants R-Truth to stop helping Royce Keys, as he doesn't know what is going on between Royce Keys and the MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga). The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) shows up with the AAA World Tag Team Championships, and Erik tells R-Truth that when he is ready, they want to defend their titles against the WWE Tag Team Champions. Ivar says they are ready, but nobody is ready for war. R-Truth says he has never met either of them a day in his life and leaves.
Rhea Ripley heads to the ring. Rhea says she has put Jade Cargill behind her, and while she did not come out completely unscathed due to her banged-up knee and Jade Cargill came in with a gameplan to take her out, Cargill failed to take her out, and she is still champion. She also says she had a nice, unexpected friend help her with the numbers game, and Charlotte Flair shows up and admits that while Rhea did not asks for her help, she had her back because she respects her and had fun teaming with her. Charlotte then says that Queen of the Ring is happening for the next few weeks and that she is a competitor at heart as well as a fourteen-time champion, and that she will be standing in front of Rhea at SummerSlam, because Rhea has what she wants. Tiffany Stratton shows up, and after refusing to apologize to Charlotte, Tiffany admits that while she looks good with the Women's United States title, she wants the WWE Women's Championship. Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab show up, and Cargill says that Tiffany, Rhea and Charlotte look stupid together before stating that Charlotte made herself next in line for what she pulled, and tells Tiffany to stay out of her business. Cargill then tells Rhea she is coming for what is hers, and she, Michin and B-Fab head to the ring before General Manager Nick Aldis shows up. After Aldis says that Rhea is not cleared to compete, Charlotte admits that she and Tiffany do not like each other, but challenges Cargill and company to a tag match. Aldis makes the match official, and the match takes place next.
Jade Cargill and "Michin" Mia Yim beat Charlotte Flair and Tiffany Stratton.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) Jacy is not in the mood for an interview. As she says that she is on another level compared to the rest of the women's division, she spies Brie Bella and Paige in a photoshoot. As Brie and Paige mention Jacy's loss tonight, Fallon Henley and Lainey Reid jump Brie and Paige.
Backstage, R-Truth meets with Royce Keys. Royce tells R-Truth he appreciates what R-Truth has done for him, and R-Truth says he wants to return the favor. Royce acknowledges that he and Damian Priest cannot get along, however, and says that this is something R-Truth will have to handle.
Ricky Saints beats Carmelo Hayes after grabbing the tights on a roll-up.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Trick Williams. Trick says he is only concerned with himself, but he is entertained with people fighting over what he has. He hopes to win the King of the Ring Tournament, be on the same list with some greats, and win a world championship to become a double champion again. Bron Breakker then shows up and briefly stares down Trick Williams.
Backstage, Tiffany Stratton is met by Chelsea Green, who insists on wanting to team with Tiffany. Chelsea fails to figure it out that Tiffany wants nothing to do with her, even as Chelsea wants Tiffany in her corner for her match.
We hear from Blake Monroe. Blake is impressed by Tiffany Stratton and her trise to the top, and says that looking at her is like looking in a mirror. She calls a match with her a box-office event, but Tiffany is not used to getting her hands dirty, and Tiffy Time will soon run on "Monroe minutes." Blake Monroe is coming soon to SmackDown.
Lash Legend beats Chelsea Green.
Backstage, Royce Keys is met by Solo Sikoa. Royce tells Solo to watch what he says, and Solo asks Royce why he is being so difficult. Solo says that Roman Reigns made Jacob Fatu bow down like a dog and that Damian Priest wants nothing to do with him, and he is the only family Royce has. Royce asks if he really busted his ass for this, but Solo reminds him that he is the one who made the call to bring him to WWE just like he brought Jacob, Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga to WWE. Solo says that they need to get ready for war, and tells him to stop being so difficult or else he will make things difficult.
Backstage, Axiom congratulates Rey Fenix on winning the AAA Cruiserweight Champion. As Fenix tells Nathan Frazer that he has a title shot if he wants it, Chad Gable meets with Fenix and says they had a great match, but he had it under false pretenses as El Grande Americano. He says that he was made a mockery of lucha libre when he was should have been taking on a responsibility, and asks Fenix for forgiveness. Fenix says that Gable has learned a lot and has suffered from losing his match, and while he forgives Gable, he reminds him that he is not the only person he offended.
"Dirty" Dominik Mysterio beats Damian Priest, Trick Williams and Bron Breakker to advance in the King of the Ring Tournament and face Oba Femi in the semi-finals after JD McDonagh distracts Damian Priest and Liv Morgan hits Priest with a low blow following Bron Breakker clotheslining Damina Priest through the announce table.
Roman Reigns and The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) make their way to the ring to start tonight's show. Roman says he has been waiting for this day for a long time because there is no day like acknowledgment day, and Jey Uso wants to know where Jacob Fatu is on his first day on the job. Jacob Fatu shows up, and Roman and Jey tell Jacob that he knows what time it is. Jacob takes the microphone from Jey's hand and tells Roman that he knew what he was getting into when he challenged Roman to Tribal Combat, as he has been taking L's his whole life and it brought him here. He admits that last night, his children saw their father take a loss and keep his word, and he lost to his Tribal Chief. He tells Jey he did not lose to him, then acknowledge Roman Reigns as Tribal Chief and takes a knee beforeraising his right hand. Roman takes Jimmy by the hand, and Roman tells Jacob that while he does not understand this right now, he loves him. Jimmy says this is a warning shot that "they the twos and we the ones."
We are introduced to the French announce team of Michele Posa and Luca Franchini.
Oba Femi beats Solo Sikoa, Penta and Carmelo Hayes in a Fatal 4-Way Match to advance in the King of the Ring Tournament. After the match, Oba says Paul Heyman asked if he could take a beating and asked what he does after taking a beating that included seven F-5's, then says he is standing, winning and still here after taking Brock Lesnar's best shot, and he will become King of the Ring. He reminds Lesnar that they are 1-1 and that he will see him down the line.
Cathy Kelley introduces Sol Ruca to the ring. Sol Ruca states that winning the WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship is a dream come true, as she and the fans all believed in her and that she could be a champion. Sol Ruca then thanks the fans and gives credit where credit is due to Becky Lynch despite Becky being against the match and feeling she was not ready to face the very best only to be proven wrong. She then says that as tough as it was to beat Becky, her work is just getting started, as the Women's Intercontinental Championship and the fans deserve a fighting champion, which she promises to be. She then says that if anyone thinks she is a rookie or if they underestimate her, she will snatch their soul walk out the champion.
In footage from after the show, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns have a chance meeting. Backstage, Roman Reigns meets with The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso), telling Jey to stay on Cody as he is the only one who understands tough love. He then tells Jey to go in at the King of the Ring Tournament, take the Undisputed WWE Championship and head to SummerSlam. Roman says there are two ends to the table, and he needs Jey to level up. He then asks Jimmy to stay with him, saying that Jey needs to do this on his own.
Rey Mysterio and Dragon Lee beat "All Ego" Ethan Page and Rusev.
Backstage, General Manager Adam Pearce tells Penta that he will make the Intercontinental Championship defense against Rey Mysterio happen. After Penta leaves, LA Knight shows up and accuses Pearce of siding with Roman Reigns. Pearce says he was talking business with Roman last night and that he has no idea what Knight saw, but Knight says that Pearce only wants Roman as World Heavyweight Champion before threatening to take Pearce out of retirement just to put him back in it. Pearce says Jacob Fatu is a liabilty and that Knight can believe whatever he wants, but he is trying to keep Roman Reigns and The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) in line. When Pearce points a finger at Knight, Knight raises Pearce's finger up into the air, taking it as more proof that Pearce is siding with Roman.
Iyo Sky beats Giulia, Roxanne Perez and Lash Legend to advance in the Queen of the Ring Tournament.
Backstage, Maxxine Dupri is shocked to find out she is not in the Queen of the Ring Tournament. General Manager Adam Pearce tells her that the tournament is stacked and that he had to make some tough decisions, and when Maxxine says she has been overlooked again, Pearce tells her that if an opening comes up, she will be at the top of the list. Otis tells her that he and Akira Tozawa have her back, but that they have noticed that Maxxine has been hanging out more with Austin Theory instead of them. Maxxine tells Otis that she knows what she is doing and to trust her on this.
We see the recent events regarding Danhausen and the New York Knicks, who have reached the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999 since Danhausen uncursed the team.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Bayley and Lyra Valkyria. Bayley says the two of them can do the Queen of the Ring Tournament and the Women's Tag Team Championships at the same time. Lyra notices Sol Ruca and congratulates her on beating Becky Lynch for the WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship, then says that she wants to challenge for the Women's Intercontinental Championship, which she could not challenge for while Becky was still champion. Sol Ruca says she would be honored.
Backstage, Liv Morgan shows up as Roxanne Perez is frustrated with her Queen of the Ring Tournament loss. Liv Morgan says that it has been a rough couple of weeks, but they are still family. Liv says that they take opportunities, not pout over them, and that one of them will take it all back for The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Roxanne Perez, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio), win the King and Queen of the Ring Tournaments, and take over Raw.
Seth "Freakin'" Rollins beats Bron Breakker. During the match, Austin Theory shows up only to get taken down by Rollins, and Paul Heyman has to distract referee Chad Patton so that Theory can hit Rollins with one of the World Tag Team Championships. Montez Ford shows up and takes out Austin Theory with a tope con hiro over the ring post, but gets Speared by Breakker. Breakker then hits Rollins with a Spear, but Rollins kicks out. Rollins soon hits Breakker with The Stomp, but Heyman puts Braekker's foot on the rope. Rollins confronts Heyman, who says he has no respect for Rollins, and Breakker goes for a Spear on the outside only for Rollins to pull Heyman in front of himself, leading Breakker to Spear Heyman through the barricade. An angry Breakker goes after Rollins with another Spear, but Rollins uses Theory's World Tag Team Championship as a shield and hits The Stomp for the win.
Rhea Ripley heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Rhea mentions Jade Cargill and her crew attacking her to send a message only to piss her off, and now that she is back, she is itching for a fight. Rhea tells Cargill that if she wants her rematch, she will happily beat her again at Clash in Italy for the WWE Women's Championship. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up, and Charlotte tells Rhea not to get ahead of herself as they all still have a six-woman tag team match, and Alexa says they need to be on the same page. Charlotte also wants to know where Rhea was when they were attacked last week. Rhea says she was with family in Australia. Charlotte says she needed her help, but Rhea mentions that Charlotte told her she did not need her help. Rhea asks Charlotte how she can trust her to have her back if she cannot have Alexa's, and Charlotte takes this as Rhea drawing a wedge between her and Alexa. Suddenly, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) shows up. Jacy Jayne is entertained by Charlotte and Rhea arguing, which she says all started when Fatal Influence stepped onto the scene. She also says that while they have been at each others' throats, Fatal Influence have ascended to the top. She says that when there is an opportunity, Fatal Influence takes it. Charlotte challenges Fatal Influence to a tag team match later tonight. Jacy says that is all she needed to hear.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga). Solo Sikoa says Talla Tonga is more than ready and that he wants everyone, including Tama Tonga, to watch what Talla does to Shinsuke Nakamura tonight. Royce Keys shows up and confronts Solo Sikoa for costing him a title match, and tells Solo to stay out of his business. Solo says that if Royce did not need his help, all he had to do was say so. He just says that Royce needs somebody to watch his back, and asks who better to do it than family.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair meets with Alexa Bliss. Alexa tells Charlotte that she is sick and tired of Charlotte and Rhea bickering and that they will be the ones teaming up tonight out of the three of them.
Talla Tonga beats Shinsuke Nakamura following the distraction and interference attempt by Solo Sikoa. After the match, Solo Sikoa goes for the Samoan Spike as Talla Tonga holds Nakamura down. Tama Tonga stops Solo, then attacks Nakamura himself. Solo goes for a Samoan Spike again, but Damian Priest shows up with a metal folding chair. Solo, Talla and Tama leave the ring.
We see a video package for Roman Reigns vs. Jacob Fatu in Tribal Combat at Clash in Italy.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with referee Charles Robinson regarding the power outage, then meets with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. He asks Cody to let him handle Gunther and make sure the contract gets signed. Cody agrees, then runs into Sami Zayn, who tells Cody that if he needs help, all he has to do is ask. Cody says "Thanks, but no thanks" and leaves. Sami then meets with Aldis, and is told that time is tight. Sami says that he is owed a little respect and cannot get a match, even though Cody can get time to address his fans while he cannot. Cody shows up, having overheard everything, makes himself Sami's opponent tonight.
Backstage, The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) meet in the locker room. Tama Tonga says that everyone thinks they are weak, and says that Solo Sikoa has to handle Damian Priest and show that they are not weak, and that he must do this on his own for the family. Solo agrees, and tells Tama to get the match made.
Before the next match, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up. Nia says that tomorrow night she and Lash will end Paige and Brie Bella's nostalgia tour and take the women's tag titles back, and Lash says that taking Tiffany Stratton's title will be the perfect beginning to a golden weekend.
Tiffany Stratton retains the WWE Women's United States Championship against Lash Legend in an open challenge match. During the match, Chelsea Green shows up to support Tiffany Stratton from ringside. Near the end of the match, Nia Jax grabs at Tiffany as Tiffany is at the top rope, but Tiffany kicks her away. Chelsea soon sends Nia into the ring post, and when Lash grabs at Chelsea, Tiffany gets the schoolkid pin and the win to retain.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis finds out that the power issue in the arena is being caused by Danhausen working with his cloning machine. Danhausen disappears when he presses a button and the power goes out in the room.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The Miz and Kit Wilson. The Miz insists that he is not cursed by Danhausen, despite what has happened to them as of late, then Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom) shows up. Axiom says that Danhausen has cursed The Miz, and Kit Wilson calls this disrespectful and toxic. The Miz then challenges Axiom to a match next week in his hometown, to which Axiom agrees.
Trick Williams and Lil Yachty head to the ring. As Trick Williams and Lil Yachty talk about The Miz interrupting them, Carmelo Hayes suddenly shows up and tells Trick to do the right thing, as Trick screwed him out of his championship opportunity. He also says that if it were not for Trick, he would still be United States Championship. Carmelo says that he is not here to discredit Trick and that he has always believed in him, then says there is a difference between carrying a title and being a champion. He says that he won the fans over with his hard work and his blood, sweat and tears, and tells Trick to give what both him and the fans want: a match for the WWE United States Championship right here, right now. Lil Yachty says that Trick Williams has a tight schedule, Carmelo tells Trick to make time for a title defense if his secretary allows for it, as the old Trick Williams would not have anyone telling him what to do. After Carmelo says that Trick was always good at playing second fiddle, Trick says that he does not eat dirty rice or chew his cabbage twice, and says that while he ended the open challenge, Carmelo will get his match tonight, and the ass-whupping is on the house. Trick Williams then calls for a referee for this impromptu title match.
Trick Williams beats Carmelo Hayes. During the match, Ricky Saints shows up to watch the match from ringside. Near the end of the match, Saints mouths off at Carmelo at ringside only to be shoved out of the way by authority at ringside, and when Saints' argument with referee Charles Robinson costs Carmelo the win, Carmelo knocks Saints off the ring apron. That allows Trick to hit the Trick Shot for the win.
Backstage, Sami Zayn is angry with himself again when he notices Johnny Gargano lying on a road crate. He tells Gargano what is going on, saying he knows what is going on around here and that Gargano is "the last good guy left" for letting nobody change who he is. When Sami leaves, Gargano knocks over the water bottle near his own head in reference to the two other water bottles that Sami has just angrily smacked around.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Ricky Saints, who is then immediately punched in the face by Carmelo Hayes. Carmelo then tells Saints to stay out of his business.
Charlotte Flair and Rhea Ripley beat Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley and Lainey Reid) after Charlotte gets a revenge-filled hot tag and hits Lainey Reid with Natural Selection following Rhea's Riptide in response to Lainey Reid hitting her with a superkick meant for Rhea. After the match, Rhea, Charlotte and Alexa Bliss are attacked by Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab. Cargill and Rhea are the only ones left near the ring, and Cargill hits Rhea with a pump kick followed by Jaded.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Cody says he and Sami Zayn are friends, but he does not recognize Sami so much and says that his change in attitude has become too much. He hopes to make Sami Zayn look in the mirror and become accountable, then says than Gunther can do whatever he wants, as he cannot change the fact that he is facing him.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab. Michin says that the women's division is lying about who is the best when they are the best, and that they will prove they are the best again. B-Fab says it is best their opponents not just show up. Jade Cargill says it is time to do the work and get her title back.
Solo Sikoa beats Damian Priest after Priest ends off Talla Tonga and Tama Tonga only for Solo to hit him with the Samoan Spike for the win. After the match, The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) attack Damian Priest before Royce Keys shows up and makes quick work of Tama and Talla before confronting Solo, who just walks away. Royce helps Priest up, and Priest almost choke slams Royce before realizing who he is.
Backstage, we hear from Brie Bella and Paige. Brie and Paige have talked about their successful women's tag team title reign and state that there is more to staying champion than brute strength. They state that when they step into the ring at Saturday Night's Main Event, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) will not know what hit them.
Backstage, Chelsea Green runs into Blake Monroe. They both introduce themselves to each other, then Blake Monroe says she saw Chelsea earlier and wishes she didn't. Blake leaves, then The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) rush out and smack her into some road crates.
Backstage, Royce Keys confronts Damian Priest, asking him what his problem is and telling him that R-Truth told him to have Priest's back tonight. Priest says he does not know or trust him, and says that Royce would have done the same thing in his shoes. Royce says that if it is an issue Priest wants, it is an issue Priest will get.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Sami Zayn after Gunther suddenly shows up and puts Cody in a sleeper hold from the apron. When this happens, Sami charges at Cody, but Cody dodges and Sami nails Gunther instead. Cody then hits Sami with the Cross Rhodes for the win. After the match, Cody and Gunther brawl, and Gunther powerbombs Cody. Sami confronts Gunther before Gunther can put Cody in a sleeper hold, but Sami backs down and lets Gunther put Cody in a sleeper anyway. Sami has second thoughts about leaving Cody to Gunther as he leaves, and Gunther ultimately makes Cody pass out before holding up the Undisputed WWE Championship.
CM Punk makes his way to the ring to start tonight's show. Punk says he has a history of things that happened and things that should have happened in the building. He mentions Paul Boesch and states that he loves to hear about "the old-timers" and how they would operate in times like this. Punk mentions that Roman Reigns is not here tonight, and talks about how Roman powerbombed him through the announce table with the help of The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) and strutted out like the king of the world, and he hoped to get his revenge and he got his receipt. He mentions that he put Roman through the announce table before mentioning that Roman hates him, which means that he has Roman where he wants him to be. Punk says being hated by losers is the price to pay for not being one of them. Punk says he gets why Roman hates him, then says the feeling is mutual as he states that they have the tools to reach the top. He then says his tools are self-made and sharpened to a point due to the work he has done while Roman's tools are store-bought, hand-delivered and plastic. He says he used to be too young to understand, but he is now too hold to give a damn, and says TKO has Roman represent WWE in the ring because he is fake, manufactured and saccharine while he is dangerous. Punk says he can do numerous TV appearances and still make it to the show while Roman uses them as a crutch and an excuse not to show up, and when he does show up, he shows up late and leaves early with his chest puffed up like he is The Rock. Punk says that The Rock was a Hollywood superstar just like Roman was a champion, but that dream is over because this is wrestling and not cinema. Punk says he does not have a cousin on the board of directors and a bunch of yes men who shield him from the truth, and that he has earned everything he was worked for while Roman ate dog food from a weird old man. He says that weird old man treated him like a dog for years, but he had "F-U money" and walked out on him, and he cannot be controlled. Punk says Roman can brag about how many times he has been at WrestleMania, yet if anyone talked about how Roman sucked at the first eight of them. Punk says he cannot be blackballed, because he can blow up a bridge and survive because he knows how to swim. Punk says that "everyone is getting it tonight," and even calls out Pat McAfee for thinking he can come to his business and run his mouth when he cashed a check that his narrow ass cannot cash. He tells McAfee to tell his agent who shoehorned him into the show to lower the ticket prices, as he will be damned if someone who kicked a football for a living talked to him about selling tickets and putting asses in seats, as McAfee has a receipt coming to him. Punk then demands the ticket prices be lowered so that whole families can see him standing on Roman Reigns' throat at WrestleMania. Afterwards, Punk spends some time with the first four rows opposite the hard cam.
We see footage of LA Knight showing up unexpectedly on iShowSpeed's recent livestream and attacking him. We then see iShowSpeed backstage looking for Danhausen, and he soon finds him. iShowSpeed begs for Danhausen to lift the curse, and Danhausen wants his mountain as payment for undoing the curse. When General Manager Adam Pearce shows up, Danhausen disappears, and Pearce tells iShowSpeed he should go home and let The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) and The Vision (Logan Paul and Austin Theory) hash things out. The Vision shows up, and Theory tells iShowSpeed to listen to them instead. iShowSpeed is about to leave, but Logan tells him that the only safe space is with them, and The Vision bring iShowSpeed to the ring as Pearce says this is a terrible idea.
Austin Theory beats LA Knight after Knight goes after iShowSpeed when Logan Paul shoves iShowSpeed into him. iShowSpeed runs away from Knight only for The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) to show up. iShowSpeed jumps over Knight and tries to run away, but gets caught. Logan Paul distracts Knight, and when Knight knocks Logan Paul off the apron, Theory pins Knight with a schoolkid pin for the win. After the match, LA Knight and The Usos confronts iShowSpeed, then The Usos go for the 1D on iShowSpeed only for Logan Paul to make the save. LA Knight calls for General Manager Adam Pearce before The Vision (Logan Paul and Austin Theory) and iShowSpeed can leave, and proposes a six-man tag match between the team of himself and The Usos and the team of iShowSpeed and The Vision. Pearce tells iShowSpeed he should have stayed home, but now he is going to WrestleMania, and it is official.
Grayson Waller and Kofi Kingston are seen arguing in the background as Finn Balor makes his way to the ring for the next match.
Finn Balor vs. JD McDonagh ends before it begins thanks to a cheap shot from behind by "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio. Finn Balor is able to fend them off, but Dominik blasts Finn Balor with the AAA Mega Championship before attacking him with a metal folding chair.
We see a brief video package for AJ Lee. We then see Michael Cole's interview with AJ Lee from earlier today. As AJ Lee says it is surreal to be back at WrestleMania, however, Becky Lynch interrupts the interview to insult Michael Cole. Michael says he does not need this and leaves, and this becomes a confrontation between AJ Lee and Becky. Becky says she remembered AJ Lee's final WrestleMania, and mentioned that AJ Lee came off as fake and saw her as her replacement. She tells AJ Lee that she will not have home field advantage at WrestleMania, because WrestleMania is her home. AJ Lee dares Becky to keep underestimating her, then says she is proud of Becky Lynch and everything she has done for the locker room. She then says that none of it happened without her, because she shattered the glass ceiling and knocked the walls down for her. She says that WWE kept calling her and that the fans never forgot her, then says she is not only her favorite wrestler's favorite wrestler, but also her daughter's favorite wrestler. Becky is angry after AJ Lee says she will see her at WrestleMania and leaves.
Bayley beats Lash Legend. During the match, Nia Jax trips Bayley on the outside, and when Nia slams Lyra Valkyria into the apron when Lyra goes after her, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up and attack Nia. Nia takes Charlotte, Alexa and Nia out with a splash to the outside, but Lash Legend catches up with Bayley when Bayley heads back to the top rope. Lash hits a Superplex, but Lyra grabs Lash by the feet and keep them held down so that Bayley can get the pin and the win.
Houston Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans, rapper Bun B, and WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry are seen in the crowd.
We see a preview of Hulk Hogan: Real American, a brand-new documentary about Hulk Hogan coming to Netflix on April 22nd.
Seth "Freakin'" Rollins heads to the ring. Rollins says he has been gone for six months and has been waiting to hear the fans again, and the fans sing his theme before Rollins declares that he is back. He then talks about his match with Gunther at WrestleMania, admitting that there is no long history or personal issue between the two of them before concluding that Gunther has entered a business relationship with "The Oracle" Paul Heyman. Rollins says he has two missions: take back the World Heavyweight Championship, and kill The Vision ("The Oracle" Paul Heyman, Bron Breakker, "Big" Bronson Reed, Logan Paul, Austin Theory). He mentions Logan Paul and Austin Theory's blood feud with The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso), saying it will not end well, then mentions that Bron Breakker and "Big" Bronson Reed are on the shelf and that Brock Lesnar is on a silver platter for Oba Femi to Heyman's chagrin thanks to him. Rollins says that if Gunther is acting as a business partner and a shield for Heyman, then it has become business for Gunther and personal for him. All of a sudden, Gunther gets in the ring, but Rollins counters Gunther's sleeper with one of his own. Gunther avoids The Stomp, but throws Rollins over the announce table only for Rollins to hit him with the ground and pound. Officials have to separate both men, and that allows Gunther to boot Rollins in the face before he is forced to the back. Backstage, Gunther notices Heyman and smiles. Heyman says he does not know why Gunther did what he did at Madison Square Garden, as there is nothing personal between him and Rollins, then says he owes him a very big "thank you." Gunther says he is glad it is personal for Rollins, as it is also personal for him for the reasons he is thinking of. Gunther and Heyman then shake hands, then Gunther says Heyman owes him so much more than a very big "thank you."
We hear from Stephanie Vaquer, who says that Liv Morgan is not as clever as she thinks she is. She then says that if Liv Morgan wants to play dirty, she will play dirty. Vaquer says Liv talks a lot but says nothing, claims to run Raw, and handles her daddy issues with a pathetic excuse of a man who is jealous of his own father's success. Vaquer says she inspires girls everywhere to forge their own paths. She says that if Liv says it is on sight, then Liv will not see her coming, and at WrestleMania, she will not get her hands on the Women's World Championship, as she will take Liv where nobody can follow.
We see a brief scene of what looks like young dancers on chairs, similar to a music video. It only lasts a few seconds before we see Je'Von Evans' entrance.
Penta, Dragon Lee and Je'Von Evans beat Los Americanos (El Grande Americano II, Rayo Americano, Bravo Americano) in a six-man tag match. After the match, Rey Mysterio heads to the ring and says it is an honor to see Penta's career take off as WWE Intercontinental Championship, stating that his ladder match in WrestleMania has the potential to be one of the best in history. He says that he missed last year's WrestleMania due to injury, then says that he has spoken with General Manager Adam Pearce regarding this year's WrestleMania. He says that the ladder match is missing one more person: himself. Penta then says to Rey Mysterio "Let's make history."
We hear from Asuka. She says that she and Iyo Sky were once a family, but Iyo tried to take everything rom her. She says that Iyo destroyed what they had and tore their family apart even after everything she did for her and Kairi Sane. She never expected Iyo to thank her, as she did everything for her out of love. Now she realizes she loved Iyo too much, as she took advantage of her kindness and used her, and now, she must pay. Asuka says she will always be Iyo's senpai, and as senpai, she will teach her one last painful lesson in the ring and take everything from her.
Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky beat "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab after Iyo pins B-Fab with a surprise victory roll. After the match, Michin and B-Fab gang up on Iyo Sky as Jade Cargill directs traffic, and Rhea Ripley shows up as Michin gets in the ring with a shinai and cleans house only to be laid out with a pump kick by Cargill. Michin and B-Fab hold Rhea down in the corner, and Rhea dares Cargill to hit her before Cargill grabs the shinai and striking Iyo Sky instead while Rhea is forced to watch. Cargill then hits Iyo Sky with Jaded before she, Michin and B-Fab leave.
We hear from Finn Balor. He says that he brought the beating from earlier tonight on himself, and hoped that he would do things the easy way. Unfortunately, he taught "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio and JD McDonagh how to play dirty, then says playtime is over and that Dominik is about to see a side of him that he thought he would never come back. He says that side of him is back, and at WrestleMania, it is coming for Dominik. Backstage, The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio, Raquel Rodriguez) briefly talk about Finn Balor before mentioning their plans to bring new championship gold to the faction. Dominik and McDonagh leave, then Roxanne Perez meets up with Liv and Raquel. Raquel leaves, then Liv thanks Roxanne for her help before stating there is an elephant in the room with Roxanne joining at Finn Balor's behest. As Liv said that what happened to Finn Balor had to be done, she is suddenly shoved into Roxanne and thrown into the nearby television by Stephanie Vaquer.
WWE Chief Content Officer Paul "Triple H" Levesque and General Manager Adam Pearce head to the ring for the contract signing between Oba Femi and Brock Lesnar for their WrestleMania match. After the commercial break, Pearce says that the match will be a true clash between two titans before Paul Heyman suddenly shows up and hypes the match up as "one of the most anticipated WrestleMania matches in decades, if not ever." Heyman then introduces Brock Lesnar as "the conqueror of the ruler," stating that the ruler cannot measure up. Heyman and Lesnar then head to the ring, then Oba Femi is introduced. Oba Femi then makes his way to the ring. Oba stares down Lesnar from the apron, and Lesnar charges at Oba as he enters the ring. This leads to a brawl on the outside, and Pearce quickly calls for security as both men brawl. Both men are separated in opposite corners, and security has to go through hell to separate both men again as one keeps lunging at the other with a splash in the corner. Lesnar throws a chair at Oba, but Oba tosses it back at Lesnar. The show then ends.
Tiffany Stratton heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Tiffany talks about how she lost the WWE Women's Championship three months ago after having a rookie year most women would dream of having. She says that she wants to qualify for the Elimination Chamber because when she says something, she will do it. Tiffany also says she is going into the chamber expects to win, and says that the WWE Women's Championship misses her. Suddenly, Nia Jax and Lash Legend show up, not exactly happy to see her, and Lash says that Tiffany got lucky last week. Tiffany asks Nia if she has learned her lesson after being obsessed with her and calls Lash Legend Nia's "replacement." Lash Legend says she is "the upgrade" and that after tonight, when they beat Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships, Nia will win her qualifying match and pin Tiffany faster than she can say "It's Tiffy Time." Tiffany gets a "Tiffy Time" chant going, then Nia says they should save Tiffany the embarrassment and take care of this tonight. Nia tells Tiffany that she knows what she is capable of, to which Tiffany replies "Losing another title match." Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky show up, and Rhea Ripley says that neither Nia or Tiffany will be walking out of the Elimination Chamber as a winner because she is in it, and soon, Iyo Sky will be in there, and the two of them will work together until they are the last two standing. She then says that the two of them will beat the crap out of Nia and Lash for thinking they will walk out with the Women's Tag Team Championships.
Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky vs. Nia Jax and Lash Legend for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships ends in a no-contest when the match gets out of control. After the match, both teams continue to brawl on the outside, and the brawl ends with Iyo Sky putting Nia Jax through a table and Lash Legend tackling Rhea Ripley through the barricade of the timekeeper's area.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Cody says he can do what he did last week and speak with conviction, or he can do the "Golden Boy" thing and control his emotions. He says there are posting along live with the show and streams broadcasting their reaction to everything the Superstars say, and that there are people who hope that he, Sami Zayn and Jacob Fatu tear each other apart and bring the house down. He then says that when the pressure builds, he asks himself where he is, which is two matches away from the dream of main eventing WrestleMania, in Texas. Cody says not to bet against him, especially in Texas.
Backstage, Carmelo Hayes meets with Matt Cardona and Apollo Crews. Apollo says he is loving what Carmelo Hayes is doing with the United States Open Challenge and would love to get back in the game, and Cardona also mentions holding the WWE United States Championship at one time and that he is back for some gold. Carmelo says that the challenge is open every Friday, but this week, it is closed. Carmelo then runs into The Miz, who says that Carmelo is just handing out title shots to anyone, to which Carmelo responds "Anyone but you." Miz says he is the locker room leader and is filling the role that John Cena left, and Carmelo is testing his three core values: master, inspire, zone in. Miz then says he is zoning in on teaching Carmelo a lesson in respect. Carmelo says he hopes Miz teaches better than he wrestle and leaves, then Apollo Crews shows up and says that "zone in" is two words, to which Matt Cardona shows up and agrees. Miz gets flustered and leaves.
We hear from Aleister Black and Zelina Vega. Aleister gives Randy Orton credit where credit is due, and says that their match was shades of "2009 Randy Orton." He then says he cannot help but wonder what happens if "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes qualifies tonight, or the road that Orton will take and whether or not he will see Orton soon. Zelina tells Guilia and Alexa Bliss hold on to her title and a fragile friendship respectively, and she canot help but wonder but poke and play until those porcelain egos finally break. She says she knows who Alexa is, but that time will come. Tonight, shoe hopes to get to the Elimination Chamber, and tonight, change will come.
Before the next match, Carmelo Hayes says that for the last 48 days that he has been WWE United States Championship, he has chosen to bring honor and prestige to the championship the same way the champions before him did, and as the "US-A-Champion," he is on the road to WrestleMania and he has earned his opportunity to WrestleMania, and since he can shoot his shot, he will shoot for the main event. Carmelo proclaims that next week, he will qualify for the Elimination Chamber, for when he shoots, he does not miss. He says that he made a promise to somebody that has been chasing him, and he owes it to him. Carmelo then calls out Ilja Dragunov, and after Dragunov heads to the ring, The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) show up, and Solo Sikoa says that Dragunov has already lost twice and should get to the back of the line, as the line starts with him. Dragunov reminds Solo Sikoa that his family abandoned him during his qualifying match, which Solo takes exception to before stating that what happened to The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis, Nikki Cross) will happen to Carmelo and Dragunov. Dragunov takes this as Solo Sikoa looking for a fight, and that he and Carmelo are ready for one. Carmelo then says that he was hoping to leave with one title, but now he looks forward to leaving with two. Solo says it did not have to be like this before snapping his finger and siccing the rest of The MFT's on them. The numbers game quickly takes over, but Matt Cardona and Apollo Crews quickly show up to even the numbers game up slightly before Shinsuke Nakamura arrives to even them completely. Carmelo, Dragunov, Apollo, Cardona and Nakamura quickly clean house, and General Manager Nick Aldis shows up liking what he is seeing and pushing back the United States Championship back before making a ten-man tag match official.
The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) beat Carmelo Hayes, Ilja Dragunov, Apollo Crews, Matt Cardona and Shinsuke Nakamura in a ten-man tag match after Talla Tonga shoves Carmelo Hayes off the top rope into a Samoan Spike, allowing Tama Tonga to hit Cutthroat for the win. After the match, The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis, Nikki Cross) show up in the crowd and stare down The MFT's.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair meets with Alexa Bliss and apologizes about what happened in the women's Royal Rumble match. Alexa says Nia Jax eliminated her, and Charlotte Flair says that while Nia ruins everything, she will not ruin today, which is "Galentine's Day." Charlotte hands Alexa her favorite flowers and a signed picture of herself, then tells Alexa she will be at ringside for her match tonight.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis speaks with R-Truth and Damian Priest. Priest learns from Aldis that next week, he is in a Triple Threat Match with Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams in an Elimination Chamber qualifier. All of a sudden, Kit Wilson confronts Aldis, and says he has chosen to weaponise his words instead of his fists and recites a poem where he calls Nick Aldis toxic. R-Truth and Damian Priest laugh, and Kit Wilson accuses Priest and R-Truth of lacking emotional intelligence that allows them to be able to enjoy a poem from the most real man in the room. R-Truth makes fun of Kit Wilson's manhood, which causes Kit Wilson to call R-Truth "vile," and calls Priest and Aldis "children" for laughing, then says he is not toxic and that everyone is toxic as he leaves.
Alexa Bliss beats Zelina Vega and Giulia in an Elimination Chamber qualifier.
Backstage, Jordynne Grace welcomes Tiffany Stratton back. Tiffany admits that things have become different around here, and while she wants to beat Jade Cargill, she wants to see Jordynne Grace win the women's Elimination Chamber Match. Jordynne Grace that when she wins, she would not mind seeing Tiffany at WrestleMania. Jordynne leaves, then Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre bump into Tiffany. Chelsea Green, who is now in a wheelchair, says that her now-injured right foot is "grotesque," all because Tiffany had to take her spot at Elimination Chamber, then proclaims that jealousy is a disease and that Tiffany is riddled with it. Alba then demands an apology and compensation, and Tiffany tells Chelsea that if she wanted an apology, all she had to do was step up and ask, then realizes Chelsea is in a wheelchair and that she cannot.
We see a video package chronicling what has happened between "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu.
Backstage, Rey Fenix is met by Sami Zayn, who tells Fenix to teach Trick Williams a lesson for talking a lot of trash despite having all the talent in the world. Rey Fenix says he will take care of that, then Sami Zayn admits that the last time Rey Fenix talked to him, he was not all there and that the last few weeks have been rough, but tonight is a new chance to punch a ticket to WrestleMania, and Rey Fenix's words meant a lot to him. Fenix says that tonight, Sami Zayn has this.
Before the next match, Trick Williams says that nobody in Dallas, Texas wants to hear Sami Zayn tell another sob story after he comes out every single week begging for another opportunity, then says that Sami has another opportunity tonight and that if he comes out moping around, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu will eat him alive. Trick then says that next week, he will do whatever it takes to qualify for the Elimination Chamber, but as for tonight, he has Rey Fenix, and says the people of Dallas, Texas would rather see a lion like him get up than watch a squirrel do a flip.
Trick Williams beats Rey Fenix.
Backstage, Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky are disappointed with their match against Nia Jax and Lash Legend, then tells Iyo to let her focus on Nia while she qualifies for the Elimination Chamber. Suddenly, Giulia and Kiana James show up, and when Rhea Ripley mocks Giulia for not qualifying before Iyo Sky entertains the idea of taking the Women's United States Championship from her, Giulia becomes enraged and has to be held back by Kiana. Jade Cargill shows up and smiles, then leaves.
We see a video package for Jordynne Grace vs. Jade Cargill for the WWE Women's Championship.
We hear from Jacob Fatu, who says that the odds have been stacked against him his whole life, and while he has never been in the Elimination Chamber is like, he has been in prison. He says he has been written off and scratched out, and that even "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Sami Zayn are wondering what he is going to do. He says that he will qualify tonight and that he has Elimination Chamber in the bag on the way to WrestleMania with nobody doubting what he will do then.
Before the next match, Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez and "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio show up. Dominik says that Liv is watching this match up close, and Liv Morgan mentions that Jade Cargill has reached 100 days as champion. Dominik then announces that he has arranged a romantic Valentine's Day date between himself and Liv Morgan. Stage hands bring out two chairs and a table with candy and chicken nuggets, and Liv Morgan says that she will watch Jordynne Grace and Jade Cargill tear each other apart.
Jade Cargill retains the WWE Women's Championship against Jordynne Grace. After the match, Jade Cargill tells Liv Morgan that if she challenges her at WrestleMania, what happened to Jordynne will happen to her.
Backstage, The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) and Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom) notice that Johnny Gargano is still sulking with Candice LeRae by his side. Gargano mentions that Tommaso Ciampa is gone and that he has no title and no friends and that he has nothing left. Gargano then lays on a road crate, and Candice says she will fix this as she pushes the road crate and wheels Gargano out. The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) soon show up and tells everyone else to take note and get in line if they want shots at the WWE Tag Team Championships. All of a sudden, Solo Sikoa sees a picture of his head as a lantern as drawn by Dexter Lumis, and tears it off in anger.
We see footage from yesterday where WWE Superstars visited the National Medal of Honor Museum.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis is handing a SmackDown contract to Oba Femi when Kit Wilson shows up. Aldis takes Kit Wilson's book and reads his poem about Oba Femi, and Oba Femi proposes that he and Kit Wilson meet in the ring next week so they can discuss their feelings. Kit Wilson calls Oba Femi "toxic" and leaves.
Backstage, Cathy Kelly interviews Drew McIntyre. McIntyre says that the men currently in the Elimination Chamber want none of him, then promises that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes will be nowhere near him, his title or the main event of WrestleMania after hearing what Cody has had to say. He says that Jacob Fatu has the best chances in the Elimination Chamber as he has spent the most time behind bars, and if Jacob Fatu makes it to the main event of WrestleMania, he will make Jacob wish he was back in the slammer. Sami Zayn shows up as McIntyre is about to address him, and says a big part of him wants Sami to win tonight, as he has paid his dues and he knows that he is going to win the big one tonight.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Sami Zayn and Jacob Fatu in an Elimination Chamber qualifier. During the match, Cody hits a Cody Cutter on Sami, then Jacob throws Cody out of the ring and hits Sami with a top rope moonsault only to be booted in the head with a Claymore by Drew McIntyre during a pinfall attempt. McIntyre then grabs Jacob Fatu and throws him around on the outside, then Cody takes out McIntyre only to be sent into the ring post. McIntyre then powerbombs Jacob Fatu through the announce table before hitting Cody with a Claymore back in the ring and placing Sami on top of Cody for a pinfall attempt. The referee gets back in the ring and counts the pinfall attempt, but Cody gets a shoulder up. McIntyre becomes furious and gets back in the ring to attack Cody, but Sami boots him with a Helluva Kick. Cody then hits Sami with the Cross Rhodes for the pin and the win.
Drew McIntyre heads to the ring to start tonight's show. As he heads over to the ring, however, he is suddenly attacked by "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Officials have to break up the brawl as Drew McIntyre flees through the crowd back to the ramp and to the back. Cody gets in the ring and warns McIntyre that things will not be the same after McIntyre eliminated him from the Royal Rumble match that he was not even in. He also states that he was excited for Roman Reigns and CM Punk declaring their championship match before mentioning his own discomfort and shame in coming back to where he was from empty-handed. Cody says that McIntyre was made that he was once WWE Champion, then says that his shame and discomfort will become McIntyre's downfall and that McIntyre will not make it to WrestleMania.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Giulia and Kiana James. Kiana says the women's tag titles are a stepping stone to Giulia becoming a triple champion, and that they will win the titles before Giulia goes on to win at Elimination Chamber.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis tells Cody Rhodes that he must qualify for the Elimination Chamber and that he must control his emotions before Cody is escorted from the building.
Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky retain the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships against Giulia and Kiana James. During the match, it is announced that SmackDown will be on SyFy for the next two weeks (this is due to the Winter Olympics).
Backstage, Ilja Dragunov is confronted by The Miz, who tells him that he can consider the United States open challenge closed. Carmelo Hayes shows up and says that Dragunov has gotten his title shot, and that the only thing Miz is getting is "an ass-whuppin' in the 704."
Carmelo Hayes beats The Miz after rolling out of the Skull Crushing Finale and hitting the First 48.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Tiffany Stratton, who says that her sights are on Elimination Chamber when Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre show up. Chelsea says that she was robbed of her WrestleMania moment and that she is the only one newsworthy around here, but Tiffany tells her that she will have to look for her name in the obituaries.
We hear from Bo Dallas. He says that Solo Sikoa took the lantern and left The Wyatt Sicks (Bo Dallas, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis, Nikki Cross) in the dark not because he is alone, but because he is afraid of being left behind in the dark all by himself. He says that Solo holds the light close to keep everyone tight, but fear does not show up until one is all alone.
The Bennett Family are the recipients of the Papa Johns seat upgrade.
Tiffany Stratton beats Chelsea Green and Lash Legend in an Elimination Chamber qualifier.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Randy Orton. Orton is not happy about his Royal Rumble performance despite the daunting odds, but he looks forward to entering the Elimination Chamber and using his experience to win. Aleister Black and Zelina Vega show up, and Aleister says that while they have had to say goodbye to Jon Cena and AJ Styles, they are still blessed to have at least one part of Randy Orton.
NASCAR Cup Series drivers Ty Dillon, Zane Smith and Todd Gilliland are seen in the front row.
Kit Wilson heads to the ring. He says that what he saw at Royal Rumble: thirty chauvinistic pigs and ugly meatheads, sweating and grunting and temper tantrums, all battling to be on top. He says they did not want him in the match he is a true real man who has confidence in his emotions as well as moisturizes. Kit Wilson also states that nobody can handle a man who moves his hips like he does, then calls all the fans toxic before calling out anyone who was in the men's Royal Rumble for a one-on-one match. His challenge is answered by Oba Femi. When Oba Femi shows up, Kit Wilson says that he is a feminist and that Oba Femi is toxic before Oba Femi utterly annihilates him. Oba Femi beats Kit Wilson.
Backstage, R-Truth and Damian Priest have seen Oba Femi in the ring. R-Truth is impressed by Oba Femi, but as he and Damian Priest talk about Oba, Drew McIntyre bumps into R-Truth. Priest warns McIntyre that he has his own problems and that he does not need another one.
Drew McIntyre heads to the ring. Before Drew McIntyre can do much of anything, however, Jacob Fatu suddenly rushes into the ring and attacks McIntyre. When security shows up, Jacob Fatu manhandles them. McIntyre is forced to flee through the crowd to the back.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis tells Jacob Fatu to qualify for the Elimination Chamber next week, then tells him to go home before he kisses his chance goodbye. Jacob tells Aldis to line them all up next week, then shoves security on the way out.
Tama Tonga beats Shinsuke Nakamura after JC Mateo distracts the referee so that Tonga Loa can hold Nakamura down by the foot at the corner, allowing Tama Tonga to hit Cutthroat for a second time to win.
Backstage, Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom) and The Motor City Machine Guns (Chris Sabin and Alex Shelley) run into Candice LeRae and Johnny Gargano, the latter of whom has is lying face down on a road crate after having lost Axiom's mask. As Fraxiom heads to Nick Aldis' office, Candice asks the Machine Guns to help, but Sabin reminds her of #DIY's (Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa) betrayal, and The Motor City Machine Guns leave.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky. Iyo says Kiana James and Giulia put up a good fight, but they are still champions. Rhea says everyone is on their A-game, including them, and their titles are not going anywhere. She hopes to take this momentum straight to Raw and get more gold, then Nia Jax and Lash Legend show up. Nia says a spot in the Elimination Chamber would be wasted on Rhea and that Lash should have won tonight. Rhea says that Nia and Lash are just making excuses, and Nia says that if they were their opponents tonight, she and Lash would be champions right now. Iyo takes this as a challenge, and Nia says that Rhea and Iyo have been ducking them for long enough and that she will be getting their tag team title match. After Nia, Lash and Cathy Kelley leave, Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez head to the ring.
Backstage, Kit Wilson confronts Matt Cardona and Apollo Creed, blaming everything happening to him on Cardona. Apollo laughs as Wilson calls Cardona toxic, then says it is not over. Cardona tells Kit Wilson that he is always ready.
General Manager Nick Aldis introduces Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez to the ring. Liv declares herself the greatest women's Royal Rumble winner of all time as well as the hottest, smartest, funniest, most charismatic, most talented, and most iconic in the history of WWE. She says that this comes with great power, which comes with great responsibility, then says she does not have a lot of time to choose which champion she wants to face: Stephanie Vaquer for the Women's World Championship, or Jade Cargill for the WWE Women's Championship. Liv then mentions that there is a huge elephant in the room that she needs to address the elephant in the room, and when she mentions Raquel, Raquel takes the microphone to mention the elephant in the room. They are both interrupted by Jade Cargill, who heads to the ring and tells Liv that if she chooses her, she will beat that ass as WrestleMania. She then asks Raquel what she is looking at. Liv Morgan tells Jade Cargill to watch what she says, as she can choose to face Stephanie Vaquer and leave Raquel to take Jade's title. Jordynne Grace shows up and congratulates Liv for winning the Royal Rumble, then says that if she could get Cargill to defend her title, it might be her that Liv faces at WrestleMania. When Liv talks back, Jordynne and Cargill tell her to shut up. Aldis stops the argument and makes a tag team match with Cargill and Jordynne against Liv and Raquel, which happens right now.
Jade Cargill and Jordynne Grace beat The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez). During the match, Jade Cargill inadvertently takes out Jordynne Grace, and Raquel Rodriguez inadvertently takes out Liv Morgan, As Cargill and Raquel are about to square off, Jordynne shoves Raquel into Cargill before winning the match with a schoolkid pin.
Backstage, Sami Zayn is distraught after losing to Drew McIntyre at Royal Rumble. Rey Fenix shows up and tells Sami that he is a big inspiration to him and to not give up, then Trick Williams shows up and says that Sami is like Charles Barkley and makes it to the playoffs but cannot win the ring. Trick says he knows how to get the job done, but Fenix says Trick has a big mouth and warns him that he will knock his teeth out if he keeps talking.
Backstage, Jade Cargill and Jordynne Grace are arguing when General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and puts Jordynne in a WWE Women's Championship match against Cargill next week.
Drew McIntyre returns to the commentary table, adamant on saying what he wants to say. He says "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu should be banned from qualifying for the Elimination Chamber, then brags about crushing Sami Zayn as well as anyone who gets in the ring with him. He admits that he was disappointed with what both CM Punk and Roman Reigns had to say, as they were big Superstars yet came across to him as very insecure and making SmackDown seem second-rate. McIntyre says he has gone through hell to become WWE Champion again and that he has earned the title, which he considers "the number one title." He says Roman picked CM Punk because he would kill Roman without his "Samoan army," then says that he has the entire roster climbing over each other to face him while Roman and Punk keep "aura farming." As McIntyre makes his way to the back, Trick Williams shows up and says that he will watch the main event from ringside, then says McIntyre is worried about all the wrong things when he should be worried about him taking his title at WrestleMania. McIntyre gives kudos to Trick for stepping up, but tells him to walk before he runs, because he will "stick those lemon pepper steppers where the sun don't shine."
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Solo Sikoa as he is looking for The MFT's (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo). He says that he wants his family out there as he is going to the Elimination Chamber and taking it all.
Randy Orton beats Solo Sikoa and Aleister Black in an Elimination Chamber qualifier after moving backwards into Solo Sikoa - who is ready to hit a Samoan Spike - and hitting an RKO out of nowhere.
Sami Zayn heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Sami talks about how he has a chance tomorrow night to become the #1 contender for the WWE Championship when Trick Williams shows up. Trick says that he and Sami are not on the same level and that unlike Sami, he knows how to get the job done. He also mentions that the last time Sami had an opportunity at the WWE Championship in his own city, he did not get the job done, then says once again, unlike Sami, he can get the job done. Sami admits some of the things that Trick said are totally true, then reminds Trick that when he steps into the ring with him, he is in the ring with the best of the best, and that Trick will be half as good as he is in five or ten years if he is lucky. He then dares Trick to do something about it right now, but Trick says he has other things on his mind, such as a match with Damien Priest in tonight's main event, and that they can take care of things tomorrow. Suddenly, Damian Priest shows up and says that Trick is better at talking than wrestling before declaring that Trick is afraid of him and that Trick believes that if he says the wrong thing to him, he will drop him where he stands. He says that if Trick does not want to say something, then he can always do something. Trick tells Priest to mind his business when grown folks are talking and that he is not afraid of Priest, then hits Sami with the microphone where he stands and lays him out. Priest and Trick brawl, and when Sami goes for a piece of Trick, Priest shoves him out of the way only for Trick to fend them off and retreat.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Randy Orton. Orton says he has every intention of taking world championship gold for the fifteenth time, and that he will beat Sami Zayn, beat Damian Priest, whoop that Trick, fly to Saudi Arabia, and beat Drew McIntyre for the WWE Championship at Royal Rumble.
In backstage footage from earlier today, Carmelo Hayes meets with Ilja Dragunov, telling him that the United States open challenge is open for him if he wants it. Dragunov says he lost to Sami Zayn and is not in the best condition, but he will still face him. Dragunov leaves, then The Miz shows up and takes exception to Carmelo and Dragunov being friends, then says that giving out title shots does not make a title prestigious. When Miz asks Carmelo what Dragunov gave him, Carmelo says that Dragunov gave him more of an opportunity than he ever did.
Carmelo Hayes retains the WWE United States Championship against Ilja Dragunov after The Miz shows up and shoves Dragunov off the top rope.
In footage from earlier today, Michael Cole interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Cody looks forward to regaining the WWE Championship. On the subject of Jacob Fatu, Jacob shows up with security and General Manager Nick Aldis, who stay around as Jacob Fatu says his focus was on Drew McIntyre, who kicked his teeth down his throat. He says that Cody had to be the hero and that it got him thinking, but Cody says it looked more like acting, and that acting and not thinking got him sent to prison. Jacob Fatu says he made some terrible choices, but they made him a better man and led him to stand in front of Cody. Cody reminds Jacob that he is not WWE Champion because of him, and that their match should be for the WWE Championship. Jacob says McIntyre was already out before he showed up, and Cody reminds Jacob that he has never been in a title match. Jacob says they never made them like him, and that he is in control and not a loose cannon like some people think he is.
Backstage, Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre run into Jordynne Grace. Chelsea says that Jordynne is a star and that stars deserve a platform to shine on, and offers her a position in the Secret Hervice. When Chelsea mentions that she has a match with Jade Cargill, Jordynne says she will be at ringside.
Roman Reigns declares for the men's Royal Rumble match.
Jade Cargill beats Chelsea Green. After the match, Jordynne Grace says she has declared for the women's Royal Rumble match and that she will see her on the other side, then says that since Jade is warmed up, they can do it right now. Cargill leaves the ring, saying she will do this on her time.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair meets with Alexa Bliss. Alexa says she can focus on other titles, but Charlotte says the women's Royal Rumble is coming up soon. They both agree that tonight is about the team as Charlotte brags about winning last year.
We hear from Solo Sikoa, who says that he will not only win the men's Royal Rumble, but he will bring the WWE Championship back home. He then says that as long as he has Bray Wyatt's lantern, there is nothing Bo Dallas or Uncle Howdy can do about it.
The MFTs (Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga) beat The Wyatt Sicks (Joe Gacy and Dexter Lumis) to win the WWE Tag Team Championships! During the match, Talla Tonga shows up with Bray Wyatt's lantern after Erick Rowan fights off Tonga Loa and JC Mateo, and Loa and Mateo keep Rowan busy long enough for Talla to hit a big boot. Uncle Howdy catches up to Talla and puts him in a mandible claw, but Solo Sikoa hits him with a Samoan Spike. As the referee is not looking, Solo hits Dexter Lumis with Bray Wyatt's lantern, and Tama Tonga hits Cutthroat to win the match and the titles.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis is met by R-Truth, who declares for the Royal Rumble after putting his tumbler balls in Aldis' hands. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles meets with Nick Aldis, who is amazed that Styles is putting his career on the line against Gunther. Styles says Cena went out like a man on his shield and that Gunther was disrespectful, then says he will not let Gunther end his career. Aldis then brings out Shinsuke Nakamura, who asks Styles why he is willing to lose everything and tells him to prove that he is still phenomenal in a match against him at Saturday Night's Main Event. Styles accepts.
Nathan Frazer beats Johnny Gargano after Axiom blinds Candice LeRae with his blue mask, causing Candice to hit Johnny Gargano on the outside and giving Frazer the win. After the match, Axiom gets his mask back, but not for long, as Candice takes it back and flees through the crowd.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Nia Jax and Lash Legend. Lash says they have already proven they are the most destructive team in the women's division, and Nia says they will win the women's Royal Rumble and the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.
Drew McIntyre heads to the ring. McIntyre says that it has been over 30 years since the Montreal Canadiens won the Stanley Cup, but Montreal now has a champion to be proud of in him. He hopes to see Cody Rhodes and Jacob Fatu rip each other apart, then reminds Cody that there is no rematch and that he must win the Royal Rumble to face him again. McIntyre then talks about the Fatal 4-Way #1 contender's match for the WWE Championship at Saturday Night's Main Event, and when he addresses Sami Zayn, he says that Sami's son was disappointed since he opened his eyes and realized Sami was his father. He says that he does not care who wins the Fatal 4-Way Match and wishes good luck to whoever faces him at Royal Rumble.
Backstage, Rey Fenix runs into Trick Williams, who states that he will become the Undisputed WWE Champion and will give Rey Fenix a title shot if he remembers his name.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Kit Wilson. Wilson says somebody has to clean up the toxic masculinity in the locker room, then Matt Cardona shows up and wants to know what the problem is. Wilson accuses Cardona of entitlement and toxic masculinity, and Cardona challenges him to a match in the ring.
Giulia and Kiana James beats the team of Nia Jax and Lash Legend and the team of Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss to become #1 contenders for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships. During the match, Lash hits Alexa with the Lash Extension only for Charlotte to hit her with a Spear. As that happens, Kiana pins Alexa to win the match and the title shot.
Backstage, Sami Zayn runs into Damian Priest. He admits that both of them were frustrated and that he has no problem with him, then tells him he has his back. Priest tells Sami that he has this match and tells him to stay out of it. Sami says "Or what?" Priest says "You know exactly 'Or what.'" Sami says Priest does not tell him where to go this week or any week before he confronts Drew McIntyre and slaps him in the face.
Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes catches up with "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles and wishes him good luck against Gunther, then notices a signed picture of Drew McIntyre on his tour bus.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Giulia and Kiana James. Giulia looks forward to becoming a double champion and winning the women's Royal Rumble to become a triple champion. Kiana James announces that this is just the beginning.
Trick Williams beats Damien Priest by disquaification During the match, Sami Zayn shows up, and later on, Trick throws Priest into Sami on the outside. When Trick throws Priest back into the ring and then gets back into the ring himself, Sami gets in the ring and attacks Trick, ending the match. After the match, Sami continues to attack Trick, then Priest shoves Sami for costing him the match. Sami and Priest brawl, and in the end, Trick is the one left standing after a Trick Shot to Priest. As Trick celebrates in the ring, however, Randy Orton gets in the ring and hits him with an RKO. Sami confronts Orton, and after a brief conversation, Orton hits Sami with an RKO to end the show.
