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.
Frankie Kazarian, Leon Slater, Eric Young, Elijah, and KC Navarro beat Mustafa Ali, The System (Brian Myers, Bear Bronson, Cedric Alexander) and Mike Santana in a ten-man Champions' Challenge match after referee Daniel Spencer stops Mustafa Ali from using the TNA International Championship as a weapon and KC Navarro tags in to hit Blessing in Disguise on Mustafa Ali for the win.
Backstage, Gia Miller interviews Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo and Arianna Grace. Arianna says that she would be in the Knockouts Champions' Challenge if it were not for Director of Authority Santino Marella throwing up a title match on short notice, and Stacks says that Santino will own up to his bad decisions after he beats him tonight. He says that Santino tried to ruin their careers, but tonight, he will put Santino and the Cobra in a retirement home. Arianna tells Santino that when he does get put in the retirement home, he should not expect her to visit.
We see a vignette of The Broken Hardys (Broken Matt Hardy and Brother Nero) and The Righteous (Vincent and Dutch). The Broken Hardys say The Righteous asked for and got them, and The Righteous invite The Broken Hardys to "the wicked garden," where beautiful things rot and pain is disguised as something peaceful.
Tessa Blanchard beats Harley Hudson.
As per the Bioflex Injury Report: Steve Maclin's status is unknown, as he stormed out of the building after last week's World title match and has not cooperated with medical staff since. Jada Stone is out after her match with Xia Brookside. Moose is still out following the backstage attack on him several weeks ago. Santino Marella and Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo are cleared for their match tonight.
Backstage, Lei Ying Lee is met by The Personal Concierge George Iceman, who tells her not to mess the Knockouts Champions' Challenge up for The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance and M by Elegance). Lei Ying Lee scares The Personal Concierge away.
Channing "Stacks" Lorenzo beats Santino Marella after Arianna Grace gets on the apron and tries to take the Cobra away, causing Stacks to win with a schoolkid pin. After the match, Arianna confronts Santino Marella, and when Santino blocks a punch from Arianna, Stacks hits Santino with a cheap shot. Indi Hartwell runs to the ring, and Stacks and Arianna retreat. Indi reminds Arianna that title or no title, she is still coming for her, and demands that they have a mixed tag match right now. Daria Rae shows up and says that Indi Hartwell does not make the matches, then says Stacks won fair and square before entertaining the idea of Stacks beating Santino again and making the match official for next week.
Backstage, AJ Francis finds out from someone that he will have his paperwork tomorrow, and Francis demands that said paperwork be in his hands tomorrow as he puts his hands on him.
Fabian Aichner beats Eddie Edwards by disqualification after Alisha Edwards gets ejected from ringside for trying to hit Aichner with a shinai and the rest of The System (Brian Myers, Bear Bronson, Cedric Alexander) show up and eventually attack Aichner as he has the match won. After the match, The System gang up on Aichner, and Cedric hits Aichner with the Lumbar Check.
Before the next match, The Personal Concierge says he noticed a lot of "homeless trunks" throwing up on himself before realizing that they let them all in, and for that, he has decided to bring beauty and class to Sacramento, California (which he calls "Syracuse") with The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance, M by Elegance, Mr. Elegance).
Elayna Black, Xia Brookside and Mara Sadé beat Lei Ying Lee and The Elegance Brand (Heather by Elegance and M by Elegance) in a Knockouts Champions' Challenge Match after Keith Jardine puts Mr. Elegance in an ankle lock and chases The Personal Concierge George Iceman to the back before Xia Brookside avoids a second Warrior's Way from Lei Ying Lee - who soon gets tripped at the ropes - and pins Lei Ying Lee for a shot at the Knockouts World Championship.
Mark Davis retains the All Elite Wrestling National Championship against Adam Priest.
Anthony Ogogo beats Darian Bengston.
We hear from Mance Wancer, who says that he will hitting the pay window against "Taiga Style" Lee Moriarty in a ROH Pure Championship Proving Ground Match next week.
Viva Van beats Rachael Ellering in a Pure Rules Match.
Angelico beats "Main Man" Oro by submission with the Navarro Death Roll.
Caprice Coleman chops it up with Athena. It is mentioned that Athena's reign as ROH World Women's Champion is notable for the amount of defenses it has for the length that it has gone on. Athena says that she was just tired of putting her best foot forward only to not go anywhere and that she did not become who she was until early into her title reign. She also talks about nobody thinks about the old guard when Ring of Honor is mentioned any more and that she is the only person mentioned regarding ROH nowadays. Athena says that people discredit her because she is in Ring of Honor and because people want to see her in other companies, and that she treats every match that she has like it is her last and she does not want to be disappointed with the last match that she has in case her career ends.
Maya World beats Trish Adora with an inside cradle.
Before the next match, "Smart" Mark Sterling announces that for the first time in the fans' lives, the fans made the correct executive decision to come here tonight, as on Sunday, they can tell their grandchildren about how they bore witness to the beginning of greatness and tells them that "Athletes Rule."
Stori Denali beats Brooke Havok.
Before the next match, Jacked Jameson says that they will beat Dalton Castle and The Outrunners' (Truth Magnum and Turbo Floyd) asses and that every night is a blackout safari because The Frat House (Griff Garrison, Jacked Jameson, Preston Vance) is where the best party.
Dalton Castle and The Outrunners' (Truth Magnum and Turbo Floyd) beat The Frat House (Griff Garrison, Jacked Jameson, Preston Vance) in an ROH World Six-Man Tag Team Championship Proving Ground Match. After the match, Castle and The Outrrners are attacked by The Lethal Twist (Jay Lethal, "Vanilla Baby" Blake Christian, "Big Shotty" Lee Johnson). When Ian Riccaboni interviews The Lethal Twist, Lethal tells him to shut up before Blake Christian declares that he belongs in the main event and is the next ROH World Champion before stating that The Lethal Twist needs to show the world that they are the most crative, innovative, talented, exciting team in ROH, especially compared to Dalton Castle and The Outrunners. He also says that nobody is on their levels, and tells Riccaboni to find three guys before they take their frustrations out on him.
The Lethal Twist (Jay Lethal, "Vanilla Baby" Blake Christian, "Big Shotty" Lee Johnson) beat Il Cartello Grillo (Rosario Grillo, KJ Impala, Hayden Seal) in a six-man tag match by submission with a Figure Four Leg Lock from Lethal to Grillo.
At a CMLL event from late last night in Mexico City, Bandido retains the ROH World Championship against Volador Jr.
AR Fox retains the ROH World Television Championship against Dezmond Xavier.
Jackson Drake beats Jordan Oasis and Lince Dorado in a Play-In Triple Threat Match for the Evolve Championship. During the match, Brad Baylor tries to pull Lince Dorado out of the ring but fails, and that leads to Lince Dorado chasing both Baylor and "The Smoke Show" Ricky Smokes to the back before Jackson Drake hits Jordan Oasis with The Unaliving for the win and the title shot.
Backstage, The High Ryze (Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe) talk about their match with Cappuccino Jones and Jack Cartwheel. Tyson says they are quick and exciting, but Tyriek says they are not explosive and powerful like they are. He says it will be their power vs. Cappuccino and Cartwheel's speed, and Tyson says they will run into a brick wall. Tyriek says speed vs. power will apply pressure and that the pressure will make Cappuccino and Cartwheel explode.
We hear from It's Gal, who is poolside at home after a workout. He calls Troy Yearwood "a Gal wannabe" and says he has the best physique, not Yearwood, and gives him his first and final warning to stay out of his way, as "when you're in mint condition, there is no competiton."
Jackson Drake shows up unannounced and says that weeek after week, The Vanity Project (Brad Baylor, "The Smoke Show" Ricky Smokes, Jackson Drake, "The Real Deal" Zayda Steel, Bryce Donovan) have proven that they are the hottest thing going on Evolve in more ways that one and that they are just getting started. Drake says he will bring more drip to The Vanity Project next week when he wins the Evolve Championship, then Edris Enofé shows up and says he finds it hilarious that Drake calls himself the hottest thing going when he is standing here right now. He says that next week is a moment he has waited for for a very long time, as he has worked for the last four years to keep this from slipping through his fingers. He then tells Drake that he is leaving empty-handed when he leaves with the title, then "Super" Sean Legacy shows up. Legacy brings up The Vanity Project recruiting the help of Lexis King to keep him from competing in the Fatal 4-Way for the Evolve Championship, and while Lexis King was the better man that night, he is still standing. Legacy tells Enofé that he respects his journey, but they both have an opportunity waiting and that he has waited eight years and fought up the food chain to start his legacy and become Evolve Champion. Jackson Drake says he is tired of listening to Enofé and Legacy, and says that neither of them are qualified like he is. As he leaves, he backs into Keanu Carver. Enofé and Legacy approach Drake, then they and Carver all get a free punch to the face before referees show up to restore order.
Backstage, Chuey Martinez interviews Cappuccino Jones and Jack Cartwheel. Cappuccino says the pot is hot and extra large tonight, and while The High Ryze (Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe) are big, they cannot hit what they cannot catch. Cartwheel says it is their speed against their power, and Cappuccino says the gameplan is "stick and move." Cappuccino says they have a triple shot of energy ready to hit them in the mouth and that he and Cartwheel are about to turn Evolve on its head.
The High Ryze (Tyson Dupont and Tyriek Igwe) beat Cappuccino Jones and Jack Cartwheel. During the match, Wes Lee shows up in Tyson and Tyriek's corner.
Backstage, Prime Minister Stevie Turner meets with Leigh Laurel, the newest signee to the Evolve Women's Division. She now goes by the name Jin Tala, and she signs her Evolve contract as Carlee Bright shows up. Stevie Turner tells Carlee Bright that there will be nobody at ringside for the Fatal 4-Way Match for the Evolve Women's Championship, which Carlee Bright totally understands. Carlee is then introduced to Jin Tala, who will be her opponent next week. Carlee and Jin Tala shake hands.
Backstage, Natalya announces that she will be watching the women's Fatal 4-Way Match for the Evolve Women's Champonship tonight and that she will be awarding the championship to the winner of the match.
Backstage, we hear from The High Ryze (Wes Lee, Tyriek Igwe, Tyson Dupont). Tyriek says power beats speed everytime, but Tyson admits that Cappuccino Jones and Jack Cartwheel are pretty fast and that training with the fastest makes it so that they do not stand a chance. Wes Lee states that Tyriek and Tyson have been causing a ruckus in Evolve and that he has arrived to see what the noise is about. He says that Cappuccino Jones and Jack Cartwheel has plenty of potential, but that potential does not measure up to theirs, and if they have a problem, they can see him next week. Tyson says they have not seen the last of them, then The High Ryze leave to celebrate.
Kali Armstrong beats Wendy Choo, Kendal Grey and Kylie Rae in a Fatal 4-Way Elimination Match to become the first-ever Evolve Women's Champion! After the match, Kali Armstrong snatches the championship from Natalya's hands and celebrates in the ring to end the show.
Tony Schiavone interviews "Hangman" Adam Page in the ring to start tonight's show. Hangman says triumph in life is fleeting and momentary, as is defeat, and in the past three years, he lost sight of that. He says it is not the win or the loss, but what is done with it, that matters, and at Double or Nothing, two men entered the ring and one knew they would have to leave defeated. Hangman thanks Will Ospreay for the fight of his life and reminding him why he became a professional wrestler and dispelling any notion that he was not a man who could take AEW forward, because Ospreay is that kind of man.He then says that while one man had to taste defeat, one man had to taste victory. He states that there will be another Owen Hart Tournament winner, and hands the title to Schiavone before he looks forward to winning the AEW World Championship. He says that the AEW World Championship is the responsibility that he has chased since AEW started, and for seven months, it has been hidden from the world and locked away in a briefcase. Hangman says the AEW World Championship was supposed to be a beacon and a guiding light as well as what AEW is all about, and on his first days in AEW, he told everyone that while he was here, the fans will be his boss. Hangman promises the fans that in seven weeks, he will win the AEW World Championship, free it from the briefcase, hold it over his head for the world to see, and defend it with every last of his being. Swerve Strickland shows up, and shows Hangman footage from the Dynamite after Dynasty of The Young Bucks telling Hangman that they did him a favor by keeping Swerve from being champion. Swerve says he had the AEW World Championship won, and curiously finds it convenient that Hangman has a clear path to the title. He also mentions Hangman's promise to prevent him from being AEW World Champion again. He wants to know if Hangman had anything to do with this, and Hangman says that while he locked his eyes on Swerve, he also locked them on Moxley, and for even one second, he thought about helping him. He says that if he wanted to cost Swerve the match, he would have done it himself to his face, as he has done it before. Swerve says "Sounds good, but you're still full of shit." Suddenly, Will Ospreay shows up, and says that while he looks at Swerve like a brother, Swerve is wrong about Hangman. He says Hangman shook his hand like a man after their match, and he could look in his eyes and tell he cares about AEW. Ospreay says that he had the same feeling about Swerve when he did the same for him, then says it is not him or Swerve, but Hangman, who will win the title. He says that they have one shot, but Swerve knocks the microphone out of his hand when he proposes working together. Swerve says he will never work with Hangman, and walks out of the ring as Ospreay tries to reason with him. Hangman tells Ospreay that he will not work with Swerve, and he also leaves.
The Death Riders (Jon Moxley, Wheeler Yuta, Gabe Kidd, Marina Shafir) are seen entering the arena before the next match.
The Death Riders (Jon Moxley, Gabe Kidd, Marina Shafir) beat Willow Nightingale, "Speedball" Mike Bailey and Mark Briscoe in a mixed trios match after Kidd and Shafir stop Speedball and Willow from breaking up the Bulldog Choke on Mark Briscoe. This is despite Wheeler Yuta getting taken out when he tries to interfere a second time and after Komander shows up and goes after Claudio Castagnoli and brawls with him to the back.
We hear from MVP, who celebrates the fifth successful tag time title defense of The Hurt Syndicate (MVP, Shelton Benjamin, Bobby Lashley, MJF) and MJF's debut in the group. MJF says he will make sure The Hurt Syndicate not only keeps the tag titles, but is completely drenched in gold. He says that he will soon become AEW World Champion again, and proclaims that anyone who gets in their way will wake up in a puddle of their own piss and blood.
Backstage, we hear from Penelope Ford and Megan Bayne, who says that Anna Jay and Harley Cameron have a no-disqualification match against them tonight like they wanted. Megan Bayne says that Anna and Harley will become her next sacrifice.
Backstage, we hear from Ricochet, who states that he will continue his quest for gold and that he has seen the lay of the land in AEW. He realizes he needs his own crew of loyal subjects who will help him on his quest for gold. He then says that when he finds the perfect crew, he will prove why he is out of the world.
Megan Bayne and Penelope Ford beat Anna Jay and Harley Cameron in a no-disqualification tag team match that sees Harley get busted open when Megan sends Harley face-first into the ring steps.
Mercedes Moné is seen arriving to the arena in a Chevrolet Caprice low rider convertible.
Before the next match, Jacked Jameson talks about The Frat House's (Griff Garrison, Cole Karter, Preston Vance, Jacked Jameson) pledge party at a nearby bar in search of their next member. He then says "El Paso Strong" makes no sense because the men are weak and skinny and the women are fat and ugly. They also found no new member. They also found no new member. Jameson then states that it does not matter because they will become the new Trios Champions. As Preston Vance gets in The Opps' (Samoa Joe, Powerhouse Hobbs, "The Wrestler" Katsuyori Shibata) faces as he says that The Frat House will booze, win or lose, Samoa Joe gets the match started with a headbutt.
The Opps (Samoa Joe, Powerhouse Hobbs, "The Wrestler" Katsuyori Shibata) beat The Frat House (Griff Garrison, Cole Karter, Preston Vance).
Renee Paquette interviews Jamie Hayter in the middle of the ring. Before Hayter can answer much in the way of questions, however, the lights go out. When they come back on, Thekla suddenly shows up in the ring, having laid Hayter out, and she attacks Hayter again.
We see a video package for CMLL luchador Mistico.
Don Callis guests on commentary for the next two matches.
Adam Cole retains the TNT Championship against "The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher by disqualification after Cole is attacked by "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander. After the match, Fletcher and Alexander continue to gang up on Adam Cole, then Brody King shows up with a metal folding chair, forcing them to retreat. Security gets between Brody King and The Don Callis Family before the next match.
Brody King beats "The Walking Weapon" Josh Alexander to quaify for the AEW International Championship four-way match next week at Fyter Fest, which is advertised as a four-hour event.
Backstage, "The Protostar" Kyle Fletcher says he did not need anyone's help to beat Adam Cole and that he should be TNT Champion. He is then attacked by dam Cole, and security moves in to stop the brawl.
Mercedes Moné heads to the ring. As Mercedes Moné brags about how she is the CEO of AEW, "Timeless" Toni Storm and Luther show up, and Toni lays her title between herself and Mercedes. Mercedes is happy to see Toni, but says the fans are sick of black and white and want a champion full of color. Toni is happy to see Mercedes, and is impressed with her championship accolades in and out of AEW since her debut. She says that Mercedes has never once spoken to or looked at her, yet Mercedes has been watching her and has professed this to be the one match she has wanted, and asks what took her so long. Mercedes says it is all patience, and that it is all about her legacy, not Toni's. Mercedes says she is the revolution, and Toni says Mercedes has never seen anyone like her. Mercedes admits Toni is different now, but so is she, and that they will bring the house down. Toni says they both achieved so much on the indies, but when all that was not enough, they both came to AEW and became exactly what they wanted to be. Toni then states that while Mercedes wants all the titles, she needs only one, as she has bled, cried, and died for the AEW World Women's Championship, and if Mercedes wants to ride the money train through the Toni Tunnel, she hopes she can get deep enough. Mercedes says even Toni's hips are not even wide enough for the money train. Toni says they will meet again in 45 days, and a girl with big dreams will watch and say "Holy shit, these bitches are crazy," and then, she will find out who the better woman is. She says Mercedes may think she is the best in the world, but she herself is timeless. Mercedes says Toni may be timeless, but she deserves to have her time run out. Both Toni and Mercedes state they will see each other at All In Texas, then Mercedes and Toni shake hands before having the close-in and the staredown. Toni gets a sniff of Mercedes' scent, then Mercedes goes for a cheap shot only for Toni to fight back, which causes Mercedes to retreat.
Sol Ruca retains the WWE Women's Speed Championship against Ivy Nile with seven seconds left on the clock. The match is Sol Ruca's first successful defense of the title. This brings the fifth women's tournament to a close.
Next week: Kit Wilson vs. Berto in the 11th men's tournament!
General Manager Ava is in the ring to start tonight's show. Ava mentions the Ladder Match to determine the inaugural NXT North American Women's Champion, with four slots filled and two slots to be filled tonight, then introduces hip-hop recording artist Sexxy Red to the ring. There is a belt covered by a mantle on a nearby table. Sexxy Red announces that she will be hosting Battleground, then reveals the NXT North American Women's Championship for the first time. Tatum Paxley shows up to try to take the championship, but "Michin" Mia Yim runs in and fights Tatum Paxley. This leads to a match.
"Michin" Mia Yim beats Tatum Paxley to qualify for the NXT North American Women's Championship Ladder Match. During the match, Jaida Parker guests on commentary.
Backstage, Joe Coffey is talking with Mike Coffey, and is wanting to know where Wolfgang is. Meta-Four (Oro Mensah, Lash Legend, Jakara Jackson) shows up wanting to know why Gallus attacked Noam Dar, but Gallus (Joe and Mark Coffey) refuses to answer, with Joe saying he thought Oro Mensah was better than this before Gallus leave.
Backstage, Lola Vice is met by Arianna Grace, who asks Lola if she expects to go through another NXT Underground match, and tells her that "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler is extremely dangerous. Lola says she knows, and that Arianna can find out how dangerous she herself is first-hand.
Ridge Holland beats Riley Osborne. During the match, Ridge almost uses the ring steps, but Thea Hail stops him from using them. After the match, Riley refuses to shake Ridge's hand.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews The O.C. (Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson). Anderson says they seem to get the silent treatment, and Gallows says they are tired of the NXT Tag Team Champions duck them. Anderson says their beatdown is what happens to those who treat them like outsiders, and Gallows says the beatdowns will continue whenever they want until they get their title shot. Anderson asks Axiom and Nathan Frazer if they have their attention now, and says they can either keep running or defend their titles. After The O.C. leaves, it is revealed that Oro Mensah has been attacked.
The O.C. (Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson) beat Malik Blade and Edris Enofé. During the match, Malik Blade inadvertently shoves Edris Enofé off the ring apron and into Brinley Reece, hurting Brinley, who has to be helped to the back. After the match, The O.C. are attacked by Nathan Frazer and Axiom, and Frazer says that as long as he and Axiom are tag team champions, they will not let them anywhere near the tag titles. Axiom then accepts their challenge for Battleground.
We see a vignette for Dante Chen, who has been waiting for two years for his opportunity and has been staying ready for a chance to represent his family and his culture in Singapore, and thanks the fans for their support thus far. He says that while he will treasure last week's victory forever, he is ready for more victories and whatever is next. Backstage, Dante Chen is congratulated by the locker room when Lexis King tries to rain on his parade and says beating him will never happen again. Dante takes that bet and says he can beat him again tonight, and Lexis says his fifteen minutes of fame are over.
Backstage, Trick Williams thanks Je'Von Evans for having his back last week, then talks about their match with Gallus and says they have to be on their A-game. Sexxy Red shows up and says she is loving NXT so far, then wishes them luck before Je'Von asks Sexxy Red to accompany them to the ring.
Roxanne Perez heads to the ring. Roxanne says he has been the only one to appreciate the NXT Women's Championship from the very beginning after having seen it jump from waist to waist by women who use it as a vehicle or stepping stone to something better. She says she is the only one who has shown true commitment to the championship, as she has been training since she was thirteen years old for this and that she represents not just present or future greatness, but true greatness. Roxanne says she finds it disrespectful to find out who her next opponent is in the way that she is finding out, and demands respect from General Manager Ava, as she deserves to be treated better. After saying she can also play the disrespect game, she demands to know who her opponent is, then Ava shows up and tells Roxanne that she has never called her "a bad champ," then reveals that her opponent at Battleground is Jordynne Grace. Jordynne says some people may remember her from the Royal Rumble, then reintroduces herself for those who do not. She calls Roxanne a great champion who has built her name in NXT like she has built her own name in TNA, then asks who has built a stronger foundation and wants to know at Battleground when she challenges Roxanne for her title and leaves Las Vegas a double champion.
We hear from Eddy Thorpe, who says that to some people, fire is a destructive force, but to him and his people, it is a doorway to the spirit world and communication with the ancestors as well as healing. He says that he has asked for guidance from the flames and that the vision is strong, his body is healed and the path is illuminated for him and any of his people who have a dream. He says that through the cleansing of the fire, he has been reborn.
Backstage, Riley Osborne tells Chase University (Andre Chase, Duke Hudson, Thea Hail) that Ridge Holland still cannot be trust. Duke Hudson says he can see where Ridge Holland is coming from and takes him aside for a chat. Thea Hail says she cannot deal with this and leaves, then Ridge shows up, thankful for the match. Andre Chase says everything is okay when Ridge looks for everyone else, with Ridge none the wiser.
Lola Vice beats Arianna Grace. After the match, Lola Vice tells "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler that she has one of two options: either being tapped out or knocked out, and tells her "You choose, bitch!" Baszler runs out to the ring, and security quickly moves into place.
We see a vignette for Carlee Bright, where we see footage of her as a cheerleader before she came to NXT after graduating from college, and says that "NXT's ray of sunshine" has officially arrived. Backstage, Natalya, Karmen Petrovic and Kendal Grey congratulate Carlee when Izzi Dame shows up to rain on Carlee's parade, but Karmen takes offense to Izzi's attitude. When Izzi talks back, Karmen punches her in the face.
Backstage, No Quarter Catch Crew (Charlie Dempsey, Damon Kemp, Myles Borne) is training when Damon Kemp asks Charlie Dempsey if he is already. Dempsey says that ever since he lost the Heritage Cup, he lost a piece of himself, and he feels he needs to win the Heritage Cup back. He says that they need to learn from how Tony D'Angelo runs his family and regain structure, and has Damon Kemp take on D'Angelo next week.
Backstage, Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson wonder who attacked Noam Dar and Oro Mensah, and Lash says she will ask Trick Williams if he is behind the attacks, as she knows he will tell her the truth.
Dante Chen gets another surprise victory on Lexis King. After the match, Lexis King attacks Dante Chen, then exposes the concrete underneath the floor padding and hits him with a spinning neckbreaker.
We hear from Josh Briggs, who talks about his time in NXT with Fallon Henley and Brooks Jensen, and while he bet on himself after they split, he felt he had lost his way. He says he will find out who he is after Battleground.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Shawn Spears, who says that the youth of NXT is so talented yet so misguided and that he has also been down that path. He says he will help guide the youth to their maximum potential and become the answer.
Backstage, Tony D'Angelo shows up as his family talks about the NXT tag team titles, and D'Angelo says nothing else gets down until they put No Quarter Catch Crew (Charlie Dempsey, Damon Kemp, Myles Borne) to bed. He says the Heritage Cup is growing on him while the cup is like a part of the Crew, and that he wants to know more about the Crew to see how they operate. D'Angelo says that they will beat the Crew at their own game.
Fallon Henley guests on commentary for the next match.
Kelani Jordan beats Wren Sinclair to qualify for the NXT North American Women's Championship Ladder Match.
Backstage, Stevie Turner wants to know what Jordynne Grace has done to earn a shot at the NXT Women's Championship while she has been working at NXT Level Up. She also wants to see if Mr. Stone has an opportunity for her. Suddenly, Jordynne Grace shows up and proposes a match between them next week.
Backstage, Kelly Kincaid interviews Wes Lee, who says that and that Gallus may want all the gold in NXT, but he will not let them have the North American Championship. Suddenly, Oba Femi shows up and commends Wes Lee for his bravery, then says that the amount of opponents does not matter to him as he will walk out as champion. Wes Lee reminds Oba Femi that he has made a career of proving people wrong, and says that he will do the same with him.
Trick Williams and Je'Von Evans beat Gallus (Joe and Mark Coffey) after Sexxy Red stops Joe Coffey from using the NXT Championship as a weapon. After the match, Lash Legend shows up and asks Trick to be honest with her, and asks him if he attacked Noam Dar and Oro Mensah. Suddenly, the lights go out, and when they come back on, Trick is shoved into Lash by Ethan Page - fresh out of All Elite Wrestling and Ring of Honor - who then says that he took them both out. He then takes out Trick Williams in the corner to end the show.
The Hardys (Jeff and Matt Hardy) and Hook beat "All Ego" Ethan Page and The Gunns (Austin and Colten Gunn) with two Twists of Fate followed by a Redrum to Ethan Page. As per pre-match stipulation, Matt Hardy now controls Ethan Page's contact.
Renee Paquette interviews Dr. Martha Hart, who announces the opening ceremonies of The 2023 Owen Hart Tournament. Tony Khan shows up as Martha Hart announces that the tournament will begin at Forbidden Door in Toronto, Ontario, Canada and end in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
Orange Cassidy least eliminates Swerve Strickland to retain the AEW International Championship in the 21-man Casino Battle Royal.
Adam Cole beats Chris Jericho in an unsanctioned match with Sabu acting as a special guest enforcer after beating him in the head with a fist with a chain wrapped around it.
FTR (Dax Harwood and Cash Wheeler) retain the AEW World Tag Team Championships against Jay Lethal and Jeff Jarrett in a match with Mark Briscoe as special guest referee. During the match, Jarrett knocks Briscoe out with a guitar after Sonjay Dutt gets ejected from ringside alongside a protesting Satnam Singh. Aubrey Edwards tries to replace Mark Briscoe as the referee, but she is knocked out with a guitar by Karen Jarrett, who soon introduces the tag team title belts into the match as weapons. Jarrett hits Harwood with a title belt followed by The Stroke, but when he only gets a near-fall, Jarrett shoves and slaps Mark Briscoe as he yells at him. Briscoe slaps back, and FTR hit Jarrett with Big Rig to retain.
Backstage, Alex Marvez interviews "Absolute" Ricky Starks, who is soon attacked by "Rock Hard" Juice Robinson and "Switchblade" Jay White." All of a sudden, FTR chase them off on their way to the back.
Backstage, we hear from Chris Jericho and Saraya. Jericho is furious about his loss and says Adam Cole is a barbarian. Saraya chews out Britt Baker for hitting the both of them with a Kendo stick, then Jericho demands an intergender tag team match next week. When a security guard shows up to tell them to call down, Jericho throws a fireball at him.
Wardlow retains the TNT Championship against Christian Cage with some big help from Arn Anderson, who bites Luchasaurus on the thumb during the match and tips the ladder when Christian goes for the championship so that Wardlow can catch him for a powerbomb.
Before the next match, Jamie Hayter tumbles down to the ring while Saraya and Ruby Soho attack her.
Toni Storm beats Jamie Hayter to become a two-time AEW Women's World Champion following an attack from Saraya and Ruby Soho before the match that further hurts Jamie's right arm.
The House of Black's (Malakai Black, Brody King, Buddy Matthews) opponents for their Open House Rules match for the AEW World Trios Championships are revealed to be The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster, Anthony Bowens, "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn). For the Dealer's Choice rule, "Platinum" Max Caster says there is none and that they do not need one to beat The House of Black.
The House of Black (Malakai Black, Brody King, Buddy Matthews) retain the AEW World Trios Championships against The Acclaimed ("Platinum" Max Caster, Anthony Bowens, "Daddy Ass" Billy Gunn) in an Open House Rules match.
AEW Fight Forever is available on Sony PlayStation 4, Sony PlayStation 5, Microsoft XBox One, Microsoft XBox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch and PC on June 29th.
Jade Cargill retains the TBS Championship against Taya Valkyrie and goes 60-0. After the match, "Smart" Mark Sterling celebrates Jade's 60th straight victory without a loss, saying that Jade has beaten everyone in front of her and is ready to defend her title anywhere, then says that the only problem is that nobody is left. Kris Statlander suddenly shows up for the first time in months, and a match between them immediately happens. Kris Statlander avoids Jaded and hits a piledriver to beat Jade Cargill, bringing Jade's record to 60-1 and winning the TBS Championship.
Before the next match, Sammy Guevara and Tay Melo announce via cue cards that they are having their first child. We then see a video of Darby Allin beating up somebody in a paper MJF mask at a Las Vegas before he and the Elvis impersonator officiating the wedding get rid of the person's body. Finally, MJF makes an entrance on a throne descending onto the stage as he wears a devil mask.
MJF retains the AEW World Championship against Darby Allin, "Jungle Boy" Jack Perry and Sammy Guevara in the Four Pillars Match when Darby Allin goes for a coffin drop on Jungle Boy only for MJF to lay the AEW World Championship on top of Jungle Boy to hurt Darby on his way down and then pin Darby with a side headlock takeover.
Violent Idols play The Blackpool Combat Club (Claudio Castagnoli, Jon Moxley, Wheeler Yuta, "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson) to the ring before the next match. (The lead singer gets superkicked by Matt and Nick Jackson during the match). Don Callis guests on commentary for the next match.
The Blackpool Combat Club (Claudio Castagnoli, Jon Moxley, Wheeler Yuta, "The American Dragon" Bryan Danielson) beat The Elite (Kenny Omega, Matt Jackson, Nick Jackson, "Hangman" Adam Page) in Anarchy In The Arena after Don Callis distracts Kenny Omega, who is then struck by a masked individual who reveals themselves to be Konosuke Takeshita. After the match, Don Callis chokes Kenny Omega with a leather belt.
Backstage, Noam Dar asks Oro Mensah to be his in corner after giving him a first-class planet ticket and a stay in a five-star hotel, saying they can live the good life forever. Oro says he will think about it and leaves. Noam Dar panics.
Wes Lee retains the NXT North American Championship against Joe Gacy and Tyler Bate in a Triple Threat Match.
Noam Dar retains the NXT Heritage Cup against Dragon Lee. Nathan Frazer shows up as Dragon Lee's second before the match, but Oro Mensah runs out to become Noam Dar's second after the end of Round 1. Noam Dar scores the first fall with a roll-up following a spinning back fist with 1:30 (one minute, thirty seconds) left in Round 2. Noam Dar hits Dragon Lee with a elbow after the end of Round 3. At 1:24 left in Round 4, Oro Mensah pushes the rope. Nathan Frazer confronts Oro Mensah for doing this, but then walks away, and Oro Mensah slams Nathan Frazer into the ring steps from behind. Despite Noam Dar taking advantage of the situation, Dragon Lee is able to gain the second fall with 0:55 (55 seconds) left in Round 4. After Round 4, Nathan Frazer fights back against Oro Mensah, and Nathan Frazer and Oro Mensah both get tossed out of the match. At 1:03 (one minute, three seconds) left in Round 5, Jakara Jackson runs into the ring, and Lash Legend shows up from behind the barricade to strike Dragon Lee in the back with a cornerman's bucket on the outside. Noam Dar hits Dragon Lee with the Nova Roller to scord the third and deciding fall at 0:43 (43 seconds) left in Round 5 to retain the NXT Heritage Cup. After the match, Oro Mensah returns to celebrate with Noam Dar, Jakara Jackson and Lash Legend.
Ilja Dragunov beats Dijak in a Last Man Standing Match after jumping from the ring steps and driving Dijak face-first into a steel chair with a clubbling blow to the back.
At Chase University, Duke Hudson says that being the substitute teacher for the university has been consuming and sucking his will to live and that he has brought in two special guests who will help teach the art of catch wrestling: Drew Gulak and Charlie Dempsey. Gulak says that while the students of Chase University are used to being told what to do, he is here to teach them what not to do when they hear the bell ring, with Charlie Dempsey using Thea Hail as an example. Dempsey states that Thea Hails' lack of grappling knowledge puts her at a clear disadvantage against everyone she is in the ring with, and is not how to become a Superstar. Gulak says the good news is that not everyone in the class has to fail like Thea does. Thea Hail storms off, and Gulak says that with the right guidance, everyone will know how to crunch and crack their opponents in half. At this rate, Hudson confronts Gulak and Dempsey for having Thea Hail leave the room crying, and when Gulak says there is no crying in wrestling and that what happened to Thea was a reality check, Hudson tells them that he will not take the students being talked to in such a manner and to have a better lesson plan prepared before kicking them out of the room and dismissing the class so he can check on Thea.
Backstage, McKenzie Mitchell interviews Noam Dar, Oro Mensah, Lash Legend and Jakara Jackson. Noam says what happened tonight is history, then says that there are levels to this and that the four of them are now at the top.
Gallus (Mark Coffey and Wolfgang) retain the NXT Tag Team Championships against The Creed Brothers (Julius and Brutus Creed) after Ava Raine attacks Ivy Nile on the outside, distracting Julius Creed.
We see a hooded figure watching the attacks on the NXT women's division, who states that they have wreaked havoc on the division for months and that this Tuesday, they will reveal themselves.
Tiffany Stratton beats Lyra Valkyria in the finals of the NXT Women's Championship Tournament to win the vacant title and become the NXT Women's Champion!
Carmelo Hayes retains the NXT Championship against Bron Brekaker.
We see backstage footage of Dylan Bostic bodyslamming "The Pope" Elija Burke onto some Costco pizza boxes on the floor.
David Marquez interviews "Pretty" Peter Avalon. Avalon says he is feeling magnificent and the fans' boos will not get him down because he has a win in Derby City Wrestling after beating Robbie Walker fair and square two weeks ago. He says that he may have lost $10,000, but he is the most money-making man in the business and that he will make a lot more from Tony Khan, Billy Corgan and even David Marquez. David Marquez then mentions that the name of the top of the check that Avalon reluctantly signed read "David Marquez Productions," and that he stopped payment on the check and that he still owes Brian Myers $10,000. Peter Avalon then reluctantly and awkwardly heads to the back.
When Sean Phillips interviews "Dead Ringer" Aaron Williams, Lord Crewe shows up and says that he has a problem with Willie Mack, saying what happened last week is a stain on what he is trying to do and that he needs Aaron Williams to help him finish the job. Williams then says that Willie Mack is taking him lightly, which only makes his victory this week a lot sweeter as wrestling is an art and that he is a very violent artist who looks forward to spreading him all over his canvas.
This week's special presentation is "Filthy" Tom Lawler vs. Danny Limelight for the United World Championship from last week.
Sean Phillips interviews Marti Bell and Allysin Kay, who congratulate each other on their latest victories before hoping the other wins the United Women's Championship. When asked if they would defend the title against each other, Marti says they will cross that bridge when they get there, then Allysin Kay wonders if it is possible to have two United Women's Champions.
Willie Mack beats "Dead Ringer" Aaron Williams after Willie Mack tricks Williams into inadvertently knocking Lord Crewe off the ring apron. After the match, Lord Crewe attacks Willie Mack from behind, then ties him up in the ropes. As Aaron Williams is about to hit Willie Mack with his cane, Jake Something shows up and chases Crewe and Williams out of the ring before rescuing Willie Mack.
We see footage of The Institution ("Benevolent" Jack Banning, Brendan Divine, Honest John, Savanna Stone) assault Papo Esco backstage after last week's show before the rest of The Bodega (Danny Limelight and Slice Boogie) chase them away.
It is announced that while "King FatBoy" Papo Esco is not at 100%, he is still okay to compete and that he will face "Benevolent" Jack Banning for the United Television Championship at his request.
"Benevolent" Jack Banning retains the United Television Championship against "King FatBoy" Papo Esco. During the match, Papo Esco inadvertently knocks the referee down as he backs up following Banning letting go of a choke on the ring apron. Banning then hits Papo Esco in the back of the head with the title belt to retain.
Backstage, Guy Cool meets with 24K (Miggy Rose and Michael Hopkins). He says that when he signed them, he promised them gold, and that he has gotten them a tag team title match against TMZ after annoying Jonny Loquasto. TMZ then shows up, then Che Cabrera says that was clever of them to get a title match with "Hysterical" Shane Haste in Japan before Bad Dude Tito calls them "24-karat bronze" and tells them they have no chance of winning.
Ashlee Evans-Smith is seen in the crowd before the next match.
Zeda Zhang beats Bryn Thorne after Bryn beats Zeda up in front of Ashlee Evans-Smith and tries to fight her. After the match, Zeda Zhang is attacked from behind by Savannah Stone, but Ashlee-Evans Smith runs into the ring and chases her away.
Backstage, Megan Harmon interviews Beef Candy (Richie Slade and Flex McCalleon). Richie Slade says The Institution ("Benevolent" Jack Banning, Brendan Divine, Honest John, Savanna Stone) is behind them, and Flex McCallion says they are laser focused on Golden Opportunity after having lost the tag team titles a year ago due to a lot of cheating. Richie says TMZ ("Hysterical" Shane Haste, Che Cabrera, Bad Dude Tito) may be big and bad, but they are coming for them hungry. Flex then announces that next week, they will be on commentary for the whole show.
Kevin Martenson guests on commentary for the next match.
Bateman beats "Pretty" Peter Avalon after putting his feet on the bottom rope for leverage when Avalon misses with the Marti-Knees.
At Wrestling Revolver's Vegas Vacation, Rich Swann beat Matt Cardona to become the Impact Wrestling Digital Media Champion! After the match, however, Cardona attacked Swann and ran off with the championship belt! Stay tuned...
Darby Allin beats Brandon Cutler with the Scorpion Deathlock. After the match, Allin gets a chair, but reDRagon (Bobby Fish and Kyle O'Reilly) get Cutler out of the ring. Allin tells O'Reilly that on Sunday, he will do to him what O'Reilly did to Sting: tear his leg apart.
Anna Jay beats Sandra Moone with the Queenslayer. After the match, The Baddies (Jade Cargill, Red Velvet, Kiera Hogan) and "Smart" Mark Sterling show up to briefly stare down Anna Jay from the stage.
The House of Black (Malakai Black, Brody King, Buddy Matthews) beat Adriel Noctis, Gregory Sharpe and Matt Brannigan in a six-man tag match.
Riho, Yuka Sakazaki and Skye Blue beat "The Native Beast" Nyla Rose, Diamante and Emi Sakura in a six-woman tag match.
Death Triangle (PAC, Penta Oscuro, Rey Fenix) beats The Factory (QT Marshall, Nick Comoroto and Aaron Solo) with a Brutalizer from PAC to Aaron Solo.
Before the next match, Isiah Kassidy says that since they are in Las Vegas, Nevada, he and Marq Quen need a reason to celebrate. He states that he has issued an open contract to anyone who is willing to challenge Marq Quen tonight. The challenge is answered by Johnny Elite.
Johnny Elite beats Marq Quen. During the match, referee Paul Turner is inadvertently taken out with a springboard kick by Johnny Elite that is met for Marq Quen. Quen and Isiah Kassidy hit Johnny Elite with the Snapshot, but Johnny Elite kicks out. It is not long before Johnny Elite takes out Isiah Kassidy and hits Marq Quen with the Starship Pain for the win. After the match, a man in a suit - who is actually Nathan Barnatt playing the character "Dad" - puts on Johnny Elite's suit and does a funny dance, and Johnny ends up dancing with him.
Aaron Roberts beats Brandon Espinosa despite Espinosa targeting Roberts' left knee throughout the match.
Austin Lane beats "Remarkable" Ryan Rembrandt with an STF in a Best of the Best Challenge. After the match, Austin Lane thanks Matt Williams for waking something up that he had buried deep inside of him, and warns Norman Meklakov and Matt that instead of the "best of the best," they will get "the wrestling machine."
Dustin Starr interviews "Hollywood" Jimmy Blaylock and Van Viciouss - who have security - at the announce desk. Blaylock immediately calls out Derrick King. After the commercial, Derrick King shows up, and Blaylock takes offense to him refusing to be Van Viciouss' assistant before stating that Viciouss is the next big action hero, Derrick is not relevant and that Derrick made a big mistake after not winning in months. Derrick says Viccious was only relevant when he was hanging out with him, then says Blaylock wants to jump on everyone's bandwagon before bringing up Blaylock's security. Blaylock says his security is the best money could buy and that Derrick could have had a job, and when Derrick touches Blaylock, Blaylock's security moves into place. Derrick says they can have a match so they can see who is making a mistake. Van Viccious agrees to the match despite both Viciouss and Derrick wearing street clothes.
Van Viciouss beats Derrick King after hitting him with "Hollywood" Jimmy Blaylock's cane after Blaylock and his security distract the referee when Derrick King hits the Superkick only for Blaylock to pull the referee out of the pinfall attempt.
We hear from Money Mark, who says that he is here to do some financing, backing and talent scouting, and he has scouted some talent. Big Jack and Bruce show up as he says they are going to smoke some cigars and kick some butt.
Lance Archer vs. "The GunShow" Brett Michaels for the Memphis Heritage Championship becomes a Triple Threat Match after Mike Anthony cashes in the Cobra Cup. As Archer tries to go for a vertical suplex from the ring to the floor and Brett blocks it before exchanging blows with Archer, Anthony rolls Brett up to win the match and become the Memphis Heritage Champion.
Darby Allin beats Cezar Bononi. After the match, Darby Allin calls out Scorpio Sky and "All Ego" Ethan Page so that they can settle things tonight. Scorpio Sky and Ethan Page show up saying that Darby would like that before refusing to fight him and Sting for free. He says that when he and Ethan win on Sunday, it will be the end of one legend and the beginning of two more. As they leave, The Pretty Picture ("Pretty" Pete Avalon, "The Hollywood Hunk" Ryan Nemeth, Cezar Bononi) attack Darby Allin and Sting, then Ethan and Scorpio join in. Before Scorpio can injure Sting's leg, The Dark Order run in to make the save for Darby and Sting.
Paul Wight shows up to officiate the weigh-in of Anthony Ogogo and "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Ogogo is introduced first, followed by Cody. Ogogo is accompanied by The Factory, while Cody is accompanied by numerous members of The Nightmare Factory. Cody weighs in at 218 lbs., while Ogogo weighs in at 219 lbs. As the weigh-in is about to end, QT Marshall says that Ogogo has the victory at hand due to being one pound heavier than Cody, but that does not stop everyone from overwhelmingly cheering for Cody over Ogogo. The Factory clear out of the ring when "The Natural" Dustin Rhodes lunges at QT Marshall, then Cody says he will see the fans again at Double or Nothing before telling them to enjoy the show.
We see a video package about the upcoming Stadium Stampede match between The Inner Circle and The Pinnacle at Double or Nothing.
Backstage, Powerhouse Hobbs and Christian Cage brawl. Officials and referees stop both men before it gets worse.
Taz guests on commentary for the next match.
"Hangman" Adam Page beats "The Bad Boy" Joey Janela. During the match, it is announced that next week's show will take place at 10 PM Eastern/9 PM Central on June 4th. After the match, Taz introduces Page to "The Machine" Brian Cage, saying he will "kick the living shit out of [Page]" on Sunday, but Page sees Hook coming as he speaks to Taz and tells Cage he expected more out of him. Page asks Cage if he really needs help to beat him, then tells him to face him alone like a man on Sunday. Cage says he didn't need their help then and doesn't need their help on Sunday.
We hear from Jon Moxley and Eddie Kingston as they bury The Young Bucks' shoes in the ground. Moxley says it is time to get serious, as they are "a couple of schmucks thrown together" while The Young Bucks are the best tag team in the world, and says he has had Eddie's back in war and that it will be a war for the tag team titles on Sunday. Moxley says he needs the tag team titles, and while The Young Bucks may be the better team, the tag team titles are a couple of T-Bone steaks and they are a bunch of pitbulls. Eddie says that they will not quit and that they will win the tag team titles because the pressure is coming.
Tony Schiavone is in the ring to interview Orange Cassidy, but PAC shows up before Cassidy does. PAC tells Schiavone to leave the ring, then says that Cassidy will be irrelevant on Sunday and that the only individual of any relevance who will beat Kenny Omega and become AEW World Champion is him. He says that Kenny Omega has been ducking, dodging and manipulating to the point that it is pathetic and dares him to stand face-to-face with him so he can show what will happen at Double or Nothing. Don Callis shows up on the video screen and tells PAC he is a dangerous person and "a violent, aggressive, soulless sociopath" as Omega tries to sneak up on PAC, but PAC sees it coming. Suddenly, The Good Brothers ("The Big LG" Doc Gallows and "Machine Gun" Karl Anderson) ambush PAC from behind, but they are chased out of the ring by Penta el Zero M and Rey Fenix. Omega gets up, but as he goes for the One Winged Angel, Best Friends (Chuck Taylor, Trent, Orange Cassidy, Kris Statlander) shows up. Cassidy gets in the ring and pulls out a note for Kenny Omega. Omega opens the envelope and find another torn-up contract, then eats an Orange Punch from Cassidy. As Cassidy is about to pick up the AEW World Championship, PAC stops him, but as PAC tries to powerbomb him, Cassidy overpowers him and lays him out.
In footage from earlier today, Tony Schiavone interviews Jade Cargill when Matt Hardy shows up and says he will win the Casino Battle Royal and wants Cargill to be part of the Hardy Family Office. Mark Sterling shows up and says Cargill is his client. Sterling also threatens to hit Hardy with a 50-foot restraining order if he keeps accosting Cargill, and says that he only gets paid when Cargill wins as opposed to Hardy's 30% across the board. Hardy is livid.
Jade Cargill beats KiLynn King.
We hear from Jake "The Snake" Roberts and Lance Archer. Lance Archer tells Roberts - who expects Dante Martin - that he wants Miro, for even though he respects Martin, Miro has done nothing but piss him off and he wants to beat him to become TNT Champion.
Miro retains the AEW TNT Championship against Dante Martin with Game Over. After the match, Jake "The Snake" Roberts and Lance Archer show up, and Roberts tells Miro that his fairy tale will come to an end on Sunday. Miro dares Lance Archer to get in the ring with him, and Archer nearly choke slams Miro before referees get between them.
Hikaru Shida is honored for being AEW Women's World Champion for more than one year, and is presented with a new title belt. Shida says that when she won the title, there were no fans, but tonight, the fans are here, and she is proud to share this moment, for the AEW Women's World Championship is for the fans. Suddenly, Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. shows up. Britt says she has come in peace and that Reba is not here, then congratulates Shida on being women's champion during a turbulent time in wrestling before saying that she will be the face of a whole new era when she beats Shida for the title on Sunday. (In the commercial break before this segment, Spanish language commentator Willie Urbina can be heard mocking Hikaru Shida's accent on Spanish language commentary during the break when asked to translate what Hikaru Shida said into Spanish. This incident will be directly responsible for Willie Urbina being fired from the company less than 24 hours later.)
Scorpio Sky and "All Ego" Ethan Page beats The Dark Order (Evil Uno and Stu Grayson). After the match, Ethan Page says that what happened tonight will happen on Sunday, then Darby Allin shows up with a bunch of people in Sting masks and shirts before attacking Ethan Page. Meanwhile, Scorpio Sky attacks the people in the Sting masks and finds out the hard way that one of them is the real Sting. Scorpio Sky and Ethan Page eventually retreat.
Eric Bischoff shows up to host the celebration of The Inner Circle. After mentioning that he got the honor to introduce what would become the New World Order 25 years ago last night, Bischoff introduces The Inner Circle. We see a video package of some of The Inner Circle's greatest moments, then Santana says that they are standing stronger than ever after eighteen months in front of the returning fans after carrying the company through a pandemic. Santana says that if this is the last time they are together in the ring, then it has been an honor to do it front of the fans. Jake Hager says he wants to be shown "the hard times that make hard men" when The Inner Circle left a piece of themselves in the ring. Sammy Guevara says The Inner Circle have been through everything together, and says that when he quit The Inner Circle, he did not like it at all, and says that he will do all in his power to make sure it doesn't happen again. Guevara then thanks The Inner Circle for everything if this is the last time, then Chris Jericho admits he was hesitant to create a faction due to not playing well with others, but eventually, all they cared about was each other. He says that if they lose on Sunday, they will go down in a blaze of glory, then tells the group that he loves them in case this is the last time. Suddenly, MJF and Wardlow show up on the video screen. MJF says he is more excited than ever for Sunday before revealing that he and Wardlow have attacked Dean Malenko and tells them to get to the football field before he makes Malenko "extra cold." As The Inner Circle run to the football field, they are attacked by the rest of The Pinnacle, who drive the Inner Circle into the ground - and two tables - with simultaneous piledrivers.
Ricochet beats Mustafa Ali two falls to one (2-1) in a Two out of Three Falls Match. Mustafa Ali gets the first fall by count-out after pulling the ring apron skirt out from underneath Ricochet's feet. Ricochet gets the second pinfall by disqualification after Mustafa Ali shoves the referee into the ropes to knock Ricochet off the top turnbuckle. Ricochet scores the third fall after hitting Mustafa Ali with the Rekoil as he jumps from the top turnbuckle.
Backstage, Jimmy Uso is ready for his tag team match when Roman Reigns shows up with Paul Heyman. Roman asks them if they are ready. Jimmy says he has been ready, but Roman asks what the gameplan is. Jimmy says the gameplan is to win. Roman tells Jimmy he is happy for him, and wishes him good luck. Jimmy leaves, then Roman tells Jey "You're going to need it." Jey tells Roman that he is with him when Roman asks if Jimmy speaks for him now, and Roman tells Jey he should tell Jimmy.
Before the next match, Montez Ford says he has had some pep in his step, for tonight is the clash of the titans when he and Angelo Dawkins go against The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso). Montez admits they had a little fun at their expense last week, but when they heard that The Usos were challenging them, they felt flattered to be chosen, as they have been big fans. After Montez recalls The Usos of old, he says that they will be facing a different Usos, as Jimmy is back from injury after a year while Roman Reigns lives in Jey's head rent-free. Angelo then says Roman will do the same to Jimmy, too. The Usos show up, and Jimmy says it does not matter how long he has been on the shelf, as The Usos are back, and Jey promises to drop Montez where he stands if he mentions Roman again. He then says that the dream match will soon become a nightmare and that they will be one step closer to becoming seven-time tag team champions. Angelo Dawkins says that they are not stepping stones and that he and Montez run the tag team division, and Jey says that if they want the smoke, "it's lit now."
The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) beat The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford).
Backstage, Megan Morant interviews Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode. Robert Roode admits their strategy at WrestleMania Backlash was a little flawed, but tonight will be different. Dolph Ziggler says that Rey Mysterio had the ferocity of three men that night, then says that they are a couple of "dirty dawgs" who do what they want and that they will take back the SmackDown tag team titles.
Natalya and Tamina beat The Riott Squad (Ruby Riott and Liv Morgan).
Backstage, The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) meet with WWE official Adam Pearce, and Jimmy wants a match with the SmackDown tag team champions next week. Pearce says he will make it official.
Before the next match, Kayla Braxton interviews Carmella. She says that Bianca Belair's career might read like a fairy tale right now, but she is about to end her happily ever after right now.
Bayley guests on commentary for the next match.
Bianca Belair beats Carmella. After the match, Bayley points and laughs at Bianca Belair.
Backstage, Megan Morant interviews Rey and Dominik Mysterio. Rey and Dominik both say that when one hurts, so does the other, but when they won the SmackDown tag titles, it was euphoria, and that nobody compares to them.
Seth Rollins heads to the ring and says he is here to fight, then calls Cesaro out so they can finish things. When Cesaro does not show, Seth Rollins laughs and says Cesaro is not here to ruin his birthday. After a video package of what Seth Rollins did to Cesaro last week, Seth Rollins then discloses some audio from Cesaro's hospital room, but it turns out to be a joke. Rollins then calls what happened to Cesaro "unfortunate" and pushed him to a point that his anger overcame him and he blacked out, then says that Cesaro should take part of the blame He says that the fans brainwashed Cesaro into thinking he could disrespect him and look right through him and that he deserved opportunities he did not earn, and if Cesaro never sets foot in the ring ever again, it is because of the fans.before saying he is a man of accountability before blaming the fans. He says that his hands are clean while Cesaro's are dirty, then wishes himself a happy birthday.
Kevin Owens beats Apollo Crews by disqualification after Commander Azeez hits Owens with the Nigerian Nail on the outside.
Backstage, Jey Uso meets with Roman Reigns about next week's match. Roman wants to know "What happened to we?" and says that he has only wanted the best for him while showing disappointment in Jey being part of the opening match. Roman tells Jey he does not want him to go back to a place where people can't tell him apart from Jimmy. Jey says he never thought about it like that, and Roman reminds Jey that Jimmy Uso hasn't.
Rick Boogs plays Shinsuke Nakamura to the ring.
Shinsuke Nakamura beats Chad Gable. During the match, King Corbin shows up and steals his crown back from Shinsuke Nakamura just before Nakamura hits the Kinshasa for the win. During the match, King Corbin shows up and steals his crown back from Shinsuke Nakamura just before Nakamura hits the Kinshasa for the win.
Backstage in the trainer's room, Owens tells WWE official Adam Pearce to give him another match with Apollo Crews. Pearce tells Owens he is "a tough son of a bitch," and tells him he has his match for the Intercontinental title next week and that Commander Azeez is banned from ringside.
Backstage, it is revealed that Rey Mysterio has been attacked.
Before the next match, Dolph Ziggler says he and Robert Roode had nothing to do with the backstage attack on Rey Mysterio. Roode says that they want a fair fight, then says that if Rey can't show up, it is a forfeit and they win the tag team titles. Ziggler and Roode say that there is no way that Dominik Mysterio will show up, but Dominik Mysterio tells officials that Rey Mysterio stepped up for him last week and that he will do it now. He then heads to the ring.
Dominik Mysterio retains the WWE SmackDown Tag Team Championships against Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode following the distraction from a returning Rey Mysterio. After the match, The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) show up and have a staredown with Rey and Dominik while Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman watch from backstage.
Talking Smack: Paul Heyman addresses tonight's main event.
In Los Angeles, Brie does some vocal training with vocal coach Bob Garrett courtesy of Nikki. Brie finds out that she has a bit of power in her voice and that she has the potential to do more.
At Headspace Headquarters, Brie and Nikki host their podcast with special guest Andy Puddicombe, founder of Headspace. Brie feels that she and Bryan have a lot going on in their lives and that she is happy to go to Sedona. Andy gets to meet Artem, as well.
Brie and Nikki have a coffee with Kathy. Brie mentions that she and Bryan have busy lives and that they are growing apart rather than together. Brie also mentions that Bryan wishes she was still the girl that he met years ago, and it becomes obvious that both want different things and that they will have to compromise. She mentions that Bryan wants to work on this and mentions the trip to Sedona, which she hopes will remind them of why they got married. Kathy tells Brie to go into this with honesty and says that Bryan should do the same.
Brie and Nikki have a wine dinner for Bellaridicci, as they are soon going to France. Artem tells Brie and Nikki that his parents are coming to France. Brie talks with Kathy, and it becomes apparent that Artem wants a long-term relationship with Nikki and wants to marry her.
At Artem's house, Artem has gotten work on a dancing show on television.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie and Kathy talk about Artem's plans to potentially propose to Nikki. They are afraid that Nikki will be pressured to say yes if Artem's parents are there.
Brie and Bryan spend time with Birdie one last time before heading to Sedona. Bryan hopes to reconnect with Brie at Sedona. The two of them head to a wellness resort and head to the spot where they got married. Brie feels happy walking through that spot, and she - much like Bryan - wants to feel the way that she did when they got married, but knows that she has to put in the effort to make it work.
At Artem's house, Nikki feels that she needs to learn some Russian to make a good impression in front of Artem's parents. After learning the basics, they then head to Grandma's Deli Babushka to practice the basics and learn some new words, but Nikki soon realizes this will not exactly work. Artem admits that Nikki is trying hard to learn.
In Sedona, Brie and Bryan meet a shaman in hopes of healing their relationship. When they pray to the great spirits, Bryan breaks down. He enters a trance-like state, but soon comes out of it. Bryan feels a weight has been released from him. Brie asks Bryan to be more open with him about his feelings. Bryan mentions that he wants to live a simple life - something that he has always mentioned time and again - and this time, it hits Brie hard. Bryan admits that while it went differently than planed, he and Brie have grown closer together, and Brie feels they are at the point where they want to give their marriage quality time.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Nikki and Artem are babysitting Birdie. Nikki thinks that Artem would be a good dad.
In Sedona, Brie and Bryan meet another shaman. Bryan talks about his mental breakdown from three years ago and how he left Brie for three months to go back home to the state of Washington, and feels he cannot do that again. Brie feels that Bryan seeing leaving as the "healing" part instead of staying with her was what hurt the most. Brie and Bryan talk about what drew them to each other. It becomes clear that the two of them need to devote quality time with each other to their marriage.
At Brie and Bryan's house, Brie and Bryan pick some spinach and spend some time with Birdie. Brie feels that the trip to Sedona did her and Bryan some good and that they both need to put effort into their marriage or else they will lose it.
Brie meets Artem at a restaurant. Artem tells Brie that he got an engagement ring and admits that he may propose to Nikki. Brie asks Artem to ask for both her and Nikki's mother and father's blessing. Brie is nervous, as even though Artem may be ready, Nikki may not be.
Note: This week's episode is a "hidden gems" episode with never-before-seen matches.
Finn Balor beats "The Lucky Yin" Kenny Williams in a match from March 7, 2020.
Rhea Ripley beats Nina Samuels in a match from October 5, 2019.
Killian Dain beats "The Kiwi Buzzsaw" Travis Banks in a match from the 2019 Download Festival.
Before the next match, Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake) are in the ring. For one night only, they are joined by Joseph Conners. Gibson says he has been backstage all night hearing the fans trying to steal the show and make it about them. Gibson says he can see everyone's wet toes from the ring and tells everyone to put their shoes back on their feet, then states that he and his men would like a warm-up and prove a point. Drake is about to speak, but Conners takes the microphone and says the three of them are willing to take on the best the world has to offer. Suddenly, Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) show up. Street Profits introduces themselves to Conners and Grizzled Young Veterans, then call up Matt Riddle, who shows up.
Next week: Gallus (Joe Coffey, Mark Coffey, Wolfgang)!
Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) and Matt Riddle beat Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake) and Joseph Conners in a match from July 19, 2019.
