Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for October 23, 2020

Tonight's show beings with The Kevin Owens Show. Tonight's guest is Daniel Bryan. Owens thanks Daniel Bryan for mentioning him as a wrestler he wants to face, as he is looking forward to the potential match as well. Daniel says they both pushed each other to be better, and that SmackDown has some of the best fresh, young talent in the world. After saying that he wants to see who gets to step up next, Daniel Bryan says he would like to see a championship defended each and every week on SmackDown, and that championship should be the Intercontinental Championship. Owens then mentions that he brought Daniel Bryan over to the show over a championship, and mentions he has never been a tag team champion in WWE, and asks Daniel to imagine what they would be as a team, complete with the team name of "Team Hell KO." Daniel does not really like the name, and Owens admits they can work on the name later. Suddenly, Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode show up, and Ziggler thinks Daniel is talking about them concerning "fresh young talent." Roode says that Owens and Daniel should be talking about them and are wasting everybody's time, then The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) show up. Angelo Dawkins says Roode and Ziggler look like they came straight out of 1984, and Montez Ford says they are excited to be on SmackDown. Suddenly, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura show up. Cesaro says he and Nakamura have carried the tag team division on SmackDown for months, and that The Street Profits had their titles handed to them. Daniel takes Owens up on his offer to team up, then a tag team brawl begins. Adam Pearce shows up to try to restore order as the show goes to a commercial break.

Kevin Owens, Daniel Bryan and The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins and Montez Ford) beat Dolph Ziggler, Robert Roode, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura.

Otis, The Miz and John Morrison are in court. Ron Simmons is the bailiff, and JBL is the judge. Miz says he is here for the truth, and says case law is on his side and he can quote several cases. He says that Otis has victimized him physically and emotionally, and has not upheld the qualifications of being a Money In The Bank winner. Miz says he wants the contract removed from Otis and placed in the hands of an honorable Superstar, and says he is that Superstar. Otis, representing himself, says he won the Money In The Bank Ladder Match and deserves it based on that. When Miz's attorney agrees with Otis, Miz fires her.

We see a vignette for Bianca Belair, who is in action next.

Backstage, Daniel Bryan, Kevin Owens and The Street Profits celebrate their victory. Despite Bryan not being with it when it comes to current slang, The Street Profits know what Bryan is talking about. Owens and The Street Profits leave, then Sami Zayn shows up and tells Daniel Bryan does not share his vision of the Intercontinental Championship being defended every week, as he feels it is special and he calls the shots with the title. He tells Daniel Bryan to keep his visions about the title to himself, as nobody will listen to him and he will continue to do things his way for as long as he is champion.

Bianca Belair beats Zelina Vega.

We see a vignette for Lars Sullivan, who is in action next.

Kayla Braxton is in the ring with Shorty G. Shorty G says he is fed up with being unable to get drafted on either brand and says he has been disrespected, and to right the ship, he will prove he belongs in SmackDown by beating Lars Sullivan.

Lars Sullivan beats Shorty G. After the match, Kayla Braxton interviews Shorty G, who simply says "I quit."

Backstage, Alyse Ashton interviews Seth Rollins. Rollins says he plucked Murphy from obscurity and guided him only for Murphy to betray him, and says his idea of fun is what he will do to Murphy tonight, as Murphy needs to understand that the greater good is "all of us." He says that all of us have a role to play and that Murphy needs to understand his, as he is a messiah and Murphy is "a walk-behind-er." Rollin says he will determine Murphy's role for him, which he says is a lot of fun for him.

At the trainer's room, Adam Pearce meets with Shorty G, who says he is done being "Shorty G" and talking about accepting being who one is. He says he is tired of being a punching bag with a smile on his face, and says only one man can achieve anything he wants. He says that this man has earned so many achievements they have to be seen to be believed, and that man is "Gable...Chad Gable."

Bayley is in the ring. She says she feels annoyed having to address having four interviews where everyone asked "the same damn questions" about Sasha Banks, who she feels she cannot get away from. Bayley says she is not afraid, and that Sasha Banks does not deserve a title shot as she is "an ungrateful brat," and refuses to give her what she wants. Instead, Banks is "a bigger pain in [her] ass than she was before." Bayley says that Sasha has gotten conceited and that her head is so big it will not fit in the cell, and says the contract might as well be burned as Sasha is not the boss of her. Suddenly, Sasha Banks shows up. Sasha Banks carries the contract for their match at Hell In A Cell with her on the way to the ring, and demands Bayley sign the contract. Bayley tries to strike her with a chair, but Sasha ducks it and takes the SmackDown Women's Championship. Sasha forces Bayley into negotiating for the championship in exchanged for a signed contract, but grabs the belt. Sasha yanks her forward and knees her, then wraps the chair around her head. When Bayley refuses to sign, Sasha goes for a submission hold. Bayley finally gives in and signs the contract, then Sasha lets go of Bayley and stomps her before telling Bayley she will take her title and finish what she started.

Back in court, John Morrison says that Otis assaulted him, and says that the mental trauma endured is the trauma that hurts the most. Rey Mysterio is also in the courtroom, and confirms that Otis won the contract and should be able to cash it in. Asuka is also in the courtroom, and after she speaks, Teddy Long says he got "every single word of that." Tucker is also in the courtroom, where he tells Miz that he deserves everything coming to him, and Tucker says that with everything he has done to Otis, Otis is focused on beating Miz up, and so is he. JBL and Ron Simmons have to restore order, and JBL orders a short recess. JBL also announces that he will render a verdict when the court reconvenes. When court reconvenes, JBL says that the truth is missing within all the uproar, and says that Otis is a WWE Superstar and that the accusations against him are part of his job description, and if it were not, he and Ron Simmons would be serving life sentences right now. He also rules that Otis still has a full year after winning the contract to cash in, and is not practicing negligence. The Miz interrupts him, saying he has forgotten a key piece of evidence. The Miz produces a black briefcase, which he hands to Ron Simmons, which in turn he hands to JBL. JBL looks inside and smiles, then says that in light of new evidence, he rules in favor of The Miz. JBL then makes a match between Otis and The Miz at Hell In A Cell where the winner gets and keeps the Money In The Bank contract. Ron Simmons says "Damn!", then we see the left side of a scale lower while the other side rises up.

We see a video package chronicling the recent events between Murphy and Seth Rollins.

Seth Rollins beats Murphy after taking advantage of Murphy's injured left shoulder, which Murphy hurts during the match. During the match, Aalyah is watching the match backstage. Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio show up, and tell Aalyah not to involve herself in any matters regarding Murphy. After the match, Seth Rollins gets a Kendo Stick, and Aalyah heads to the ring when Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio refuses to help. Rollins strikes at Murphy, but Aalyah gets in the ring, which causes Rollins to run. When Dominik checks on Aalyah, Rollins attacks him, and Rey Mysterio runs into the ring with a steel chair, forcing Rollins to flee. As Rey and Dominik argue, Aalyah tends to Murphy.

Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman show up. As Roman is about to speak, Jey Uso is on the TitanTron and in Roman Reigns' dressing room. He says that Roman has changed and has his head so far up his "Tribal Chief ass" that he has lost touch with himself and his family. We then find out this is not really Jey, but Jimmy Uso after he takes off his bandanna, and Jimmy Uso tells Roman that Jey is right behind him. Sure enough, Jey strikes from behind, and while Roman tries to strike back, Jey comes out on top with a top rope Uso Splash. Roman tells The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) that they do not understand like he does, and says that if he quits, he is no longer Universal Champion, the face of WWE, the provider of the bloodline or Tribal Chief. He says that he can live with that, then asks Jey if he can do the same. He says that if Jey Uso quits, he will make him acknowledge him as the Tribal Chief, and if not, he, his brother and everyone in their family are out of the family lineage, and his part of the family will turn their backs on them. The Cell then lowers around Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman. Jey Uso then climbs halfway up the Cell and has a staredown with Roman to end the show.

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

Talking Smack: Daniel Bryan says this may be his last run in WWE.

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for October 2, 2020

Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman show up to start tonight's show. Heyman admits he is a little bit nervous, as he has known Roman Reigns and his family since the day Roman was born, and he has always looked forward to this moment, as everyone knew this was destined to happen. He says that tonight, Roman will officially be declared the tribal chief not only of his own family, SmackDown and WWE, but the entire WWE Universe, and for that, it is important that Roman be the Universal Champion. He asks that the stage be set respectively, then Roman asks for the microphone. He asks Heyman not to refer to him as the tribal chief because Jimmy Uso acknowledged him and not Jey Uso, then asks Jey to come to the ring. Jey Uso shows up and approaches Roman in the ring, and says he does not know Roman when they both showed their true colors. He admits Roman beat him, but he did not break his spirit, then says Jimmy did not throw in the towel and that the Universal title will be his. Roman says that he was not proud of what he did and calls Sunday the worst night of his career and his life, and says he was trying to do Jey a favor and put him in the main event, as he loves him more than his brother did and he wanted to raise him up. He says that all Jey had to do was acknowledge him as tribal chief, as this is his birthright and he has earned it and all he wanted to do was represent his family to the fullest. He says that Jey disrespected and embarrassed him and the whole family. Roman says that if Jey wants another shot, it will be his at Hell In A Cell, but this match will have the highest stakes that any match has ever had in WWE history. He hugs Jey, then leaves with Paul Heyman. As Roman and Heyman are halfway up the ramp, Jey takes the microphone and tells him that whatever the stakes are, it's on. After Roman and Heyman leaves, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles shows up and asks if it is over, and says the only that matters to him is Jey Uso, as he does not want to see him take another beating like he did Sunday. He then propose that he let someone "more qualified" go for the Universal Championship and acknowledge Roman as the tribal chief, as Jey will always be the runt that he has always been. Jey attacks Styles for this.

Jey Uso beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles.

Backstage, Sami Zayn says tonight is "a whirlwind of emotions," with resentment and anger being at the top just to prove that the Intercontinental Championship was rightfully his. However, instead of the company, it is the fans who are to blame. He says that the fans did not utter a word when he was stripped of the title and "went along for the ride" when WWE set up a "sham tournament" and Jeff Hardy and AJ Styles became champions. He then puts Hardy and Styles' belt in a trash can while holding on to his own.

Otis beats John Morrison. Before the next match, Otis says that he will represent himself in court against The Miz and John Morrison next week.

Sheamus quickly beats Shorty G. Before the match, Big E challenges Sheamus to a Falls Count Anywhere Match.

It's time for The Kevin Owens Show, as Kevin Owens has recently made the move to SmackDown. Tonight's guest is Alexa Bliss. Owens asks Alexa Bliss what has happened to her, and Alexa says "people change." When she asks Owens if he wants to change, Owens says he does, then says that tonight is about her, not him. He says that he wants to know what has happened to Alexa, and says that if he can get an understand, he can understand what has happened to Aleister Black. Alexa says that being around The Fiend is terrifying and captivating at the same time. She says that her brain has been washed and that all the lies have been washed away, and that The Fiend has cleansed her. She says that she can hear The Fiend and that he is here now, and tells Owens to let him in. The arena lights go dark, and when the red lights come on, The Fiend is in the ring with Owens, putting him in the Mandible Claw. The Fiend then looks to Alexa Bliss, who then takes The Fiend's hand.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Matt Riddle, Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado. Riddle says that being on SmackDown is more like a marathon than a sprint, and with the draft coming up, this is his last time to team up with them. Lince says to keep the good fight, as good lucha things are bound to happen. He also says that Kalisto is still in the locker room, and that it would be no surprise if his head cannot fit into his mask due to how big his ego has been getting.

Matt Riddle and The Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik) beat Baron Corbin, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura despite Kalisto inadvertently hitting Lince Dorado with an enzuigiri on the ring apron. After the match, Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik confront Kalisto, and Matt Riddle has to hold Kalisto back.

The mystery woman says she forgot who she was and that she got lost along the way, then blames the fans for that. They mystery woman is Carmella, who refuses to do what the fans want after it got her nowhere. She says that she is better than the fans' and that she is not their princess anymore, and this time, she is untouchable, unless she does not want to be.

Sasha Banks shows up. Sasha Banks tells Bayley that there was no way she was not going to attack her, and says Bayley is nothing but a coward who needed her to keep her title and used her as a stepping stone for all her accomplishments. She knows that Bayley is not scared of her, but next week, they will square off for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship, as they both know that when it comes down to the both of them and nobody is there to save her, she does not stand a chance. As she does this, she takes off her neck brace and calls Bayley a bitch.

Next week: Kevin Owens vs. The Fiend! Big E vs. Sheamus in a Falls Count Anywhere Match!

Sami Zayn retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Jeff Hardy after sending him into an exposed turnbuckle that Sami exposed before the beginning of the match as Jeff goes for Whisper In The Wind.

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

Talking Smack: Sasha Banks promises to end Bayley.

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for August 28, 2020

In memory of "Bullet" Bob Armstrong, 1939 - 2020.

Backstage, Adam Pearce tells to keep everything secure as best as they can, as all the top stars are here and Vince McMahon is in the house. He then meets with Vince, who asks him to get signatures from Roman Reigns, Bray Wyatt and Braun Strowman on the contract for their match at Payback. Vince recommends he start with Bray Wyatt first, and gives him "the proper attire" for Firefly Fun House before telling him to say hello to Huskus The Pig Boy for him.

Jeff Hardy shows up to start tonight's show. He says that after what "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles did to his knee last week, he is glad to be standing anywhere, much less the ring, and as he says he is ready to defend the Intercontinental Championship, Styles shows up. Styles calls Jeff a liar and a cheat, then says he has had knee injuries before and did not whine and cry to a doctor to get an illegal object on his knee. He says that Jeff had a plan involving the brace he got last week, and that he had him beat last week. Styles says that Jeff knew what he was doing and knew how to play the system, and says that the doctor who treated Jeff will not medically clear him tonight, blaming him for that. Jeff says he was about to issue a challenge...to anyone but him. As Styles becomes further aggressive towards Jeff, Jeff hits Styles with a forearm.

"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles guests on commentary for the next match.

Jeff Hardy retains the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Shinsuke Nakamura in an open challenge that sees Jeff toss Nakamura into "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles at the announce table. After the match, Sami Zayn shows up for the first time in months with an Intercontinental Championship belt of his own and declares himself the real Intercontinental Championship before both men look at Styles, who is in the ring. Sami Zayn kicks Jeff Hardy in the face as Jeff looks at Styles, then calls Jeff a fraud and leaves.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Sami Zayn, who says that Jeff Hardy is pretending to be the Intercontinental Champion much like AJ Styles before him, and calls them fradulent champions. When asked why he has not defended the championship for five months, he says he has many reasons and that he is a man of the world and the true Intercontinental Champion in every sense of the word. He then speaks in French and leaves.

It's time for Firefly Fun House. Bray Wyatt says it feels good to be back home with all of his friends, but he cannot help but feel something is missing. He then produces the WWE Universal Championship, and neither monster can take it away this time. He then tells Roman Reigns that it has been a long time and that it is good to see him again. The doorbell then ring, and Adam Pearce shows up dressed as a postman. When "Postman Pearce" asks him to sign the contract for the match at Payback, Bray asks why. He says there is a connection between Bray and "him," then Bray signs. He says that if he knows The Fiends like he does, he just signed a couple of death warrants. "Postman Pearce" then leaves while being weirded out towards Bray, and the segment ends.

Matt Riddle shows up. Riddle says that King Corbin has said that anyone who felt he did not belong on SmackDown was welcome to the King's Ransom, and says that Corbin is scared to face him. He then tells Corbin that if he has something to prove to prove him wrong. After the commercial break, Riddle is still waiting for Corbin, and calls him out again. Corbin soon shows up, but as he approaches the ring, Riddle is attacked from behind by Shorty G before Corbin accepts Riddle's challenge on behalf of Shorty G.

Matt Riddle beats Shorty G. After the match, King Corbin charges into the ring, but retreats when Riddle sees him coming and outsmarts him.

In a WWE Network exclusive from earlier today, Big E is met by The Miz and John Morrison when he does not want to be on Miz TV following their argument on Talking Smack. Sheamus joins Miz and Morrison, but Heavy Machinery (Tucker and Otis) joins Big E.

Backstage, Big E and Heavy Machinery (Tucker and Otis) are looking at sausage in a green-and-yellow lunch box when Bayley and Sasha Banks show up and make fun of them for "playing with their meat" and saying they are only capable of handling a tag team championship.

Backstage, Adam Pearce knocks on Roman Reigns' door to get his signature for the contract, but does not get him and leaves. Meanwhile, Kayla Braxton interviews King Corbin, who says he will break Matt Riddle and prove Riddle does not belong in his kingdom on SmackDown.

Bayley and Sasha Banks show up. Bayley says this is one of the most difficult weeks of her and Sasha's careers, as they have had to defend both of their singles titles and will soon have to defend the Women's tag titles at Payback. She then says that she and Sasha are still the best tag team in the history of the women's division, but when Sasha gets cross with her, Bayley says that Asuka beating her for the Raw Women's Championship is all her fault. After mentioning Sasha's inability to defend a singles title, she says that they have to keep moving forward and that they cannot lose at Payback. Sasha agrees, and says that while Bayley has her back, they can get through anything. She says that while she is no longer "Two Belts Banks," they are still best friends and she knows who she is. Suddenly, "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler and Nia Jax show up on the TitanTron. Shayna says Sasha and Bayley's week is about to get worse, and Nia says she hates them even more than Shayna. Shayna also admits she does not like Nia, then says Sasha is known for everything except winning. Sasha is undeterred and says she will get her vengeance on Sunday.

Backstage, Adam Pearce asks Drew Gulak if he has seen Roman Reigns. Gulak asks Pearce if he has seen Braun Strowman, then finds Strowman and hits him with a steel chair before tossing the chair to Pearce. Pearce explains what's going on, and asks Strowman to sign the contract. Strowman says he knows he is looking for Roman, and says he will sign the contract if he can get Drew Gulak in the ring right now.

Backstage, Cesaro asks Nakamura to let him know when he goes for a singles title as they are a time, then Sami Zayn shows up and meets them for the first time in months. Nakamura mentions that Sami has not even given them a phone call, and Cesaro mentions that things have changed in the last four months, such as them being tag team champions. Sami says this was part of his plan. As he proceeds to celebrate with "fellow champions," Cesaro tells Sami that they were in the middle of a private conversation. Sami seems slighted and says that he had to go, then leaves.

Braun Strowman beats Drew Gulak. After the match, Braun Strowman signs the contract on the stage.

Backstage, Kalisto asks Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik to stay backstage, as he has learned from Lince's mistakes from Cesaro last week. After Kalisto leaves, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura attack Lince and Metalik from behind.

Cesaro beats Kalisto after Shinsuke Nakamura grabs Kalisto from behind, despite Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik stepping in to stop Nakamura. After the match, Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik make up with Kalisto.

Backstage, Adam Pearce meets with Vince McMahon concerning Roman Reigns. McMahon tells him to knock the doors to his dressing room down with his own body.

Backstage, Tamina speaks with Nikki Cross concerning Alexa Bliss. Alexa shows up wearing pigtails with pink tips, saying she has never been better. Nikki cannot help but be reminded of "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt. Alexa goes off on Nikki Cross, grabs the coffee mug in Nikki's hands - the one she gave Nikki last year - and throws it on the floor, shattering it.

Backstage, Sheamus meets with The Miz and John Morrison concerning strategy for The Miz. Morrison says Big E and Heavy Machinery cannot be let into the ring, which causes Sheamus to tell them to follow his lead.

Backstage, Adam Pearce finally meets Roman Reigns. Reigns looks at the contract.

Big E and Heavy Machinery (Tucker and Otis) beat The Miz, John Morrison and Sheamus after Sheamus walks out on Miz and Morrison after being knocked off the ring apron after Tucker sends Morrison into him as he complains about the referee not seeing him tag in.

Backstage, Roman Reigns tells Adam Pearce that he will wreck Braun Strowman and Bray Wyatt to take back the WWE Universal Championship he never lost in the first place, and says that's not a prediction, that's a spoiler. It is then revealed that Paul Heyman is sitting next to Roman to end the show.

Talking Smack: Sami Zayn demands to be called the Intercontinental Champion.

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for August 14, 2020

It is announced that every entrance and exit of the WWE Performance Center is guarded by security to keep Retribution out.

Big E vs. John Morrison ends before it can begin when Retribution shows up and attack both men. Michael Cole and Corey Graves run away when Retribution show up. After Retribution run away, The Miz checks on John Morrison.

Backstage, everyone is taking about Retribution, and The Miz blames Big E's recent Twitter tweets for Retribution attacking. After Miz and John Morrison leaves, Baron Corbin declares himself leader of the locker room, but Big E tells him to shut up and that he is not defeated. Big E says he will get back in the ring and beat John Morrison and that is time for the locker room to take the show back, then Sheamus shows up to mock Big E, saying Retribution attacked him because he is alone and vulnerable. Sheamus says that Retribution will not dare show up during his match, as he knows they are not afraid of him. Big E tells Sheamus that if he had any sense, he would know he is not alone.

Bayley and Sasha Banks are in the ring. Sasha mentions that she has to defend the Raw Women's title along with the tag team titles, then says that tonight is all about Bayley, who says Stephanie McMahon tried to rain on her parade but could not hold her and Sasha down. Bayley and Sasha then kick Greg Hamilton out of the ring so they can announce all of the competitors in the triple brand women's battle royal where the winner faces Bayley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship. This continues until they find out that Asuka is in the battle royal, and Asuka runs out and attacks Bayley and Sasha, which allows the rest of the competitors in the battle royal to show up.

Asuka last eliminates "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler in a triple brand women's battle royal to face Bayley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship at SummerSlam.

Backstage, Bayley and Sasha are not happy about Asuka's battle royal win, and Sasha tells Bayley that they both have Asuka. As Bayley walks away, she and Sasha are attacked by Asuka.

We hear from Mandy Rose, who says that while some of things Sonya Deville says about how people perceive her is true, she has been made fun of for her looks and accused of being handed things her whole life and that it still hurts. She says that she had three jobs while working towards a bikini championship and that WWE did not fall into her lap, and while Sonya should know how hard she worked, she thanks Sonya for reminding her she is more than a pretty face. Mandy says that making her look ugly will not destroy her, and challenges Sonya to a hair vs. hair match at SummerSlam, telling Sonya to put her money where her mouth.

Backstage, Sheamus tells security to take a hike, as Retribution will not attack while he is around.

Backstage, Nikki Cross spots Alexa Bliss. She hugs her and apologizes for her behavior from last week, then shows some concern for her safety after what happened with The Fiend. Alexa says she is fine and that she is going to look for answers from Braun Strowman.

Sheamus beats Shorty G.

"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles shows up with a man in a suit (who is played by Chris Parks aka Abyss). AJ Styles says that there are more pressing matters than Retribution, such as who will face him for the Intercontinental Championship at SummerSlam. He says he wants to enjoy being champion, but so many people want to know who he is facing next. He also says that people want to throw out statistics, and it took looking at statistics during a baseball game to realize he cares about statistics. He then says he has hired someone to crunch the numbers and has hired a time to come up with a system called the "Phenomenal Intercontinental Statistic System" to find his next opponent, and announces that the next challenger must earn a match by merit. Styles mentions that he is #1 after uncovering part of a whiteboard, then reveals that nobody is worthy of facing him for the Intercontinental Championship after revealing the rest of the whiteboard, saying nobody has earned it. Styles says that somebody can get on the board if they work hard enough, then Jeff Hardy shows up. Jeff says that while he has respect for Styles and what he has done, he did not get a fair chance at the title thanks to Sheamus and says it could have been both of them in the finals of the recent tournament. Jeff talks about how he won the title and stood on his own two feet years ago, and after saying that he knows who he is and what he has accomplished, he proposes that the two of them have a match for the Intercontinental Championship. Styles says that while he has always respected Jeff and known him for a very long time, and admits a lot of people would love to see them in a WWE ring together after all that Jeff has done in WWE, and says that Jeff deserves to be on the board. Styles then declines his challenge, saying Jeff has not earned the right to be on the board and that this is not a pity party. This starts a brawl between Jeff and Styles where Jeff comes out on top before putting his own name on the board.

Backstage, Cesaro talks with Shinsuke Nakamura about how they are the greatest tag team champions and that Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik) cannot do anything against them. Lucha House Party then show up and steal the SmackDown tag titles, and Cesaro and Nakamura chase after them.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews AJ Styles, who says that Jeff Hardy assaulted him and does not respect him, the Intercontinental Championship or statistics. He says that if Jeff Hardy wants a piece of him, he will find out the hard way that he will get erased for messing with him.

Gran Metalik beats Shinsuke Nakamura after Kalisto shows up for the first time in months, distracting Cesaro and Nakamura and allowing Metalik to hit an elbow from the top of the ropes for the win. It is announced during the match that WWE will be in a different location next week and that the fans will play a big role in next week's show.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Matt Riddle. Riddle says that nobody likes a bounty on their head as it is pretty hard, and while he is a laid-back guy, he is here to "bro down and throw down." He also says that King Corbin calls himself a king, but that he is a royal pain. Riddle says he has done everything to get his attention, then Shorty G shows up. Shorty G says he got caught up in the "king's ransom" stuff and that while he has a family to feed, it does not justify his actions and that it is not him to do that. Shorty G apologizes, and both men fistbump. Riddle tells Shorty G to call him if he wants a match, then he is attacked from behind by Corbin. Corbin then thanks Shorty G for the help and leaves.

We hear from Alexa Bliss, who says she has been better after the last few months. On the subject of Braun Strowman, he was intimidating at first until she got to know him, then they got to be friends. Alexa says that she and Braun cared about each other a lot, but that she does not know if that is why The Fiend attacked her. She calls The Fiend's presence "scary and terrifying, and also compelling," and that one can feel his presence once one has interacted with him. On the subject of Braun saying she did not care about her, Alexa is at a loss for words.

Next week: Jeff Hardy vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles for the Intercontinental Championship!

We hear from Sonya Deville, who says that she is surprised by Mandy Rose's challenge and that Mandy got aggressive from having her hair cut. She says that while Mandy may think she may have gotten over her insecurities, she says that she will make Mandy know that people say things about her because they are true before accepting her challenge at SummerSlam.

The Miz guests on commentary for the next match.

Big E beats John Morrison with the Stretch Muffler. During the match, Otis confronts The Miz over comments Miz made about him. After the commercial break, the SmackDown locker room is now surrounding ringside after the commercial break. It is not long before Retribution go on the attack backstage. After the backstage attack, more anti-WWE graffiti is spray painted on a wall. The SmackDown locker room is soon alerted to what is going on in the back as the match continues. After the match, Big E falls victim to a Brogue Kick from Sheamus, then Braun Strowman - now with a bald head - shows up.

Braun Strowman is in the ring after the commercial break. He tells The Fiend that he knows what he is going to get when it comes to him, and says he promised him he would be "the most evil son-of-a-bitch" anyone has ever seen after coming out of the swamp. He tells The Fiend to come to the ring so he can eviscerate him and eat his entrails as he looks up at the lights, then Alexa Bliss shows up. Alexa, knowing that she risks making him angrier, asks Braun what is going on, and this is not the Braun that she knows. Braun says that Alexa used him as a pawn and tried to change him into something he is not, and that he is not a clown that can be led around by his beard. He also tells her that anyone who comes in contact with The Fiend is changed, including her, and tells her to get out of the ring, as he wants The Fiend. Alexa tells Braun to be careful what he wishes for, and threatens to slap some sense into him. After Alexa tells Braun to look at him, Alexa slaps him in the face multiple times, but Braun simply smiles before lifting her over her head. As he carries Alexa around, the lights slowly go out, signaling The Fiend's presence. When Braun tosses Alexa upwards, the lights go completely out. When the red lights come on, Braun is gone and The Fiend is in the ring while Alexa is on the mat. Braun is then seen on the TitanTron. Braun laughs, as does The Fiend, and Braun screams as the show ends.

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for July 24, 2020

We hear from Jeff Hardy, who admits he is an alcoholic and says that he will face Sheamus in a bar, which is a whole new enemy for him. He says he will beat "the holy hell" out of Sheamus. Sheamus says that when he is done with Jeff Hardy, he will be in a familiar place when he Brogue Kicks him and that the only thing that will make him feel better is drowning his sorrows in alcohol. We then hear from JBL, who says he will save his prediction for the match for later, then we see Sheamus' barkeep in the Irish Shannon pub polishing a glass.

Bayley and Sasha Banks show up. Sasha says that greatness is defined by quality or the state of being great, but Bayley says this is the old definition and that the new definition is themselves. Sasha says they set out to get out all the gold and got it, and they not only talk the talk, they walk the walk. She says that the Women's Revolution officially begins and ends with them, and that their era has officially begun. Sasha tells all the children looking up to them that if they follow their dreams, their dreams will come true, but Bayley says that they will never be as great as them. Suddenly, Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross show up. Nikki calls them out for their recent actions, and says that all she has for her efforts is cracked ribs. She then demands Bayley and a shot at the SmackDown Women's Championship right now. Bayley says she won at Extreme Rules fair and square, but SmackDown is the land of opportunity and she is a role model. Bayley says Nikki will get her shot if she can beat a worthy adversary in Alexa Bliss, and the winner can face her next week. Nikki shoves Alexa to the stage as she says they have to do this, then charges into the ring.

Nikki Cross beats Alexa Bliss with an inside cradle after missing a top rope cross body and aggravating her cracked ribs.

Backstage, Alexa Bliss admits to Nikki Cross that she got one over on her before hading her a bottled water, then tells Nikki that she earned her opportunity and that she is proud of her, then says it is time to focus on beating Bayley for her title.

It's time for Firefly Fun House. We see footage of last Sunday's Wyatt Swamp Fight, then we see Bray Wyatt with his lantern saying that a family reunion warms his soul and that Braun Strowman came back home. He says that the swamp is "100% certified organic" regarding Strowman being stuck in the swamp, then hears voices from the lantern before saying his work is done and that he "can't let [him] out again." He then says "You've had your chance...it's his turn now...he...has been unleashed."

Matt Riddle beats "The Premier Athlete" Tony Nese. After the match, Riddle calls out King Corbin, and Corbin shows up. Corbin tells Riddle that if he wants the audience of a king, he must put in a request, but he will deny that request because he is not ready and does not belong on SmackDown, then says his "new car smell" will fade. Corbin tells Riddle to go back to NXT and consider going to 205 Live, then puts out a king's ransom for anybody who can prove Riddle does not belong in his kingdom. Riddle says he is not some helpless subject in Corbin's made-up kingdom, then says Corbin is the next guest on "The Bro Show." Suddenly, Nese gets up and tries to attack Riddle from behind, but Riddle kicks Nese in the head.

Backstage, The Miz and John Morrison try to up their social media game.

We hear from JBL, who tells Jeff Hardy and Sheamus to get ready for their bar fight, as it is about will and not talent and that anything can happen. JBL then predicts that Jeff Hardy will "toast all his demons goodbye."

It's time for Miz TV. Tonight's guest is Naomi. Miz addresses the #NaomiDeservesBetter hashtag, and Naomi says it is not always easy to come out to the ring with a smile on her face, but she says that her fans are her motivation. When Miz says that Naomi trends on Twitter for losing rather than for winning like him and Morrison or Lacey Evans, with Morrison saying it makes him sick. Naomi then ends up grilling Miz and Morrison for passing judgment on her and her fans when she performs consistently and her fans continue to have her back and want more for her. Morrison apologizes, then says it is about to get worse, and Miz brings out Lacey Evans. Lacey Evans asks Miz and Morrison if they got their ass kicked so badly it became a pity hashtag, then says Naomi has nothing to show for her decade in WWE and is washed up as ever as she puts on her lipstick. Naomi shoves Lacey, smearing her lipstick on her face and teeth, then gets a few forearms in before Lacey retreats.

Backstage, Big E waits at the trainer's room when Kofi Kingston comes out of the room. Kofi says he will be out for six weeks or more, and Big E promises they will get the titles back. Kofi tells Big E it is his time. After Kofi commends Big E for his selflessness for the group, he tells Big E that now is his time and that it is time for him to show what he can do. Kofi tells Big E that he also has his and Xavier Woods' blessing to get some singles success.

"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles guests on commentary for the next match.

Gran Metalik beats Shorty G, Drew Gulak and Lince Dorado in a Fatal 4-Way to face "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles for the WWE Intercontinental Championship. After the match, Styles gets in the ring and pretends to try to shake Metalik's hand before slapping him in the face. Metalik slaps Styles back before hitting him with a Tornado DDT.

We see a video package of Otis' relationship with Mandy Rose. It is announced that Otis and Mandy Rose's love story will continue next week.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura. Nakamura says that Kofi Kingston went "splat" after going through two tables, and Cesaro says he regrets not putting Big E through a table. Nakamura says Big E would have made a bigger splat, then Cesaro says now is their time, not Big E's. Nakamura says that he and Cesaro will make all the teams on SmackDown "go splat."

Next week: Gran Metalik vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles for the WWE Intercontinental Championship! Naomi vs. Lacey Evans! Nikki Cross vs. Bayley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship!

Jeff Hardy beats Sheamus in a Bar Fight.

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for June 19, 2020

Renee Young introduces "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles for a championship celebration to start tonight's show. Styles says he is "an accolade machine" and that SmackDown is the house that he built, which is why he invited the locker room to ringside to tell them that ringside is as close as they will get to the Intercontinental Championship. He says that the Intercontinental Championship is vindication of everything that he has said and that the title is for those who want to work towards their success, then says there is one person qualified to award him the title: Daniel Bryan. Styles asks Daniel Bryan to get in the ring and award him the belt. Daniel gets in the ring and is initially reluctant to do so, but does it. Styles then demands Daniel congratulate him like a man, which he does. Daniel admits that they may disagree with a lot of things, but he respects Styles' ability in the ring and says he has the potential to be the greatest Intercontinental Champion if he shows up every week as a fighting champion. Styles says he is sorry he allowed Daniel to say anything and tells him to shut up, as they do not share the same vision and only people on his level get a shot at the title. He then says that Daniel is at the back of the list. Daniel then says he is okay with that, and that since Styles is about earning things, then he should defend the title against Drew Gulak, who beat him two weeks ago. Styles declines, saying his opponent must be #1 contender. Suddenly, Matt Riddle - fresh out of NXT - shows up, and Styles sees him as another person looking for a handout. Riddle tells Styles that he is "the bro who's gonna run the show," then Styles punches Riddle. Riddle soon fights back and sends Styles out of the ring, and an angry Styles demands a referee show up, starting a match.

Before the next match, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles declares that his match against Matt Riddle will not be for the WWE Intercontinental Championship.

Matt Riddle beats "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles after grabbing Styles out of the Phenomenal Forearm and hitting the Bro Derek in a match that sees Riddle have a verbal altercation with King Corbin and Styles shove Daniel Bryan at ringside.

Backstage, Renee Young interviews Jeff Hardy, who says it has been a roller coaster for him for the last two months and that he has been trying to turn his life around and do what is best for him and his family. He feels that as soon as he is about to turn a corner, he has to put out a fire only to have to put out another, and that Sheamus is a constant reminder of what he does not like about himself. He feels that while winning would have confirmed that he is turning things around, his loss to Sheamus makes him doubt himself, and he has to catch himself before negative thinking takes over. Jeff understands that he is an adrenaline junkie and an alcoholic, and says that Sheamus is just an obstacle on his path to redemption. Jeff also says he is not done yet.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Shorty G. As she does, Mojo Rawley shows up and mocks Shorty G behind his back. After Shorty G says he has eyes in the back of his head, he punches Mojo in the face.

Shorty G beats Mojo Rawley with an inside cradle.

It's time for Miz TV. Tonight's special guest is Mandy Rose. Miz admits he lost focus at Backlash, and John Morrison says it all happened because the rules were changed and that they were planning on being co-Universal Champions. They also mention that they were both looking over their shoulder for Otis, and Morrison says that if it were not for Otis, one of them would be champion right now. Miz then introduces Mandy Rose, who shows up. Mandy says that she and Sonya Deville were best friends for five years, but as soon as Miz and Morrison say that Mandy was a terrible friend, Mandy prepares to leave. Miz and Morrison then stop her and introduce Sonya. Mandy, having none of this, says that Sonya was the one who tried to sabotage her career and that she is done with her. Sonya says she wishes she could be done, but she watches Mandy get the spotlight and question what Mandy did to get it. Sonya then says that Mandy has not done anything with any opportunities given to her, then Mandy asks what Sonya wants, as Sonya can try to hurt her, but she has people who are by her side and that Otis has been loyal to her. Mandy then says that despite being a fighter, Sonya is alone, and asks how long she will hold on to petty resentments. Sonya says she is just confused as to what to do to get "The Mandy Rose treatment," and the only difference is Mandy's appearance. Sonya says that she is done and that she will tear her apart until her insides are just as hideous as her outer appearance. This starts a brawl, and Sonya gets out of the ring thanks to Miz and Morrison. Mandy then slaps Miz in the face and heads to the back.

Bayley and Sasha Banks guest on commentary for the next match.

The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E) beat The Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik). After the match, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura show up and attack The New Day. After the attack, Cesaro says he and Shinsuke Nakamura are tired of being overlooked.

Backstage, Alexa Bliss, Nikki, Lacey Evans, Tamina and Dana Brooke talks about Bayley and Sasha Banks. As Dana says that they all deserve a shot at Bayley, everyone wonders where Nikki Cross is.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Sheamus. Sheamus says he has realized that things have become serious between him and Jeff Hardy, then takes pride in being a bully and says that Jeff deserves to be bullied because he is weak and pathetic. He only regrets crushing his voice box so he would not have to hear him, and says that deep down, Jeff does not believe he is turning his life around and that he will raise Jeff up himself with a toast to Jeff Hardy next week.

Nikki Cross attacks Bayley and Sasha Banks at ringside. Alexa Bliss runs to ringside to hold Alexa Bliss back, then Nikki gets in the ring and demands a fight with Sasha Banks. Bayley accepts on Sasha's behalf.

Sasha Banks beats Nikki Cross following the double knees into a pinfall attempt.

WWE puts a spotlight on Titus O'Neil's community outreach as it is announced that O'Neil is a finalist for the 2020 ESPN Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award.

Next week: Drew Gulak vs. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles for the WWE Intercontinental Championship! Sheamus presents a toast to Jeff Hardy!

It's time for Firefly Fun House. Bray talks about the things that he has done in the last few months - including learning to reanimate the dead and infiltrating a Reptilian stronghold - then Ramblin' Rabbit butts in and mentions Wyatt's loss to Braun Strowman. Bray admits that he lost to Strowman and that he went about everything the wrong way. As he explains himself, Strowman's entrance theme interrupts him. Strowman tells Bray he had his opportunity and failed, and that there are no more games and that their story is over. Bray laughs, and warns him that their story is just getting started. After some Wyatt Family imagery, we see the pre-Firefly Fun House Bray Wyatt, who says that in order to move forward, they must step back to where it all began. Bray says he created Strowman and that it is his duty to destroy him. He says that Strowman knows where to find him, and that all he has to do is follow the buzzards.

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for May 29, 2020

The show starts with Renee Young reporting on a car accident involving Elias outside of the WWE Performance Center. The driver of another car wearing a black shirt and black pants has been seen entering the WWE Performance Center. Inside the nearby crashed car, a bottle of alcohol is found, and a piece of paper with Jeff Hardy's name is found. Strowman says he just saw a car and heard a crash, and before he knew it, somebody jumped out of a car and Elias was hurt. Suddenly, Jeff Hardy is found in the bushes. Jeff says he was not driving, but he supposedly reeks of alcohol. Jeff Hardy is handcuffed, and as he is escorted to the back of a police car, Hardy notices Elias being placed in an ambulance. The police then drive off with Jeff Hardy in the car for questioning.

At the Performance Center, what happened to Jeff Hardy is mentioned, and it is announced that Jeff cannot compete in the Intercontinental Championship tournament before. It is then revealed that Jeff has been arrested. Sheamus uses the opportunity to take potshots. "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles says he will be facing Daniel Bryan in the finals, but Daniel Bryan says that everyone in the tournament should face a random opponent. Styles tells Bryan to take his ride to the finals, but Sheamus agrees with Bryan, wanting another shot. Sheamus proposes Daniel Bryan face him, but King Corbin wants another shot, and he wants to take on Styles. Styles says he did not sign up for this, and says that Sheamus and Corbin lost once before and he wants his free ride. Sheamus proposes that he, Corbin and Daniel Bryan face each other in a Triple Threat Match with the winner facing Daniel Bryan in the semi-finals. Jey Uso wants in on the match, as does Dolph Ziggler, and it is decided everyone in the room will be in a battle royal. The winner of the battle royal will face Styles in the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament, and the battle royal is next. After everyone leaves, Styles tells Bryan that he is an idiot.

Sheamus last eliminates Jey Uso in a ten-man over the top rope battle royal to face Daniel Bryan in the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament. During the match, Cesaro throws Shorty G over the top rope after being eliminated to eliminate Shorty G in retaliation.

We hear from Sonya Deville, who brags about beating Mandy Rose last week before telling Lacey Evans she will meet the same fate. Suddenly, Lacey Evans shows up and pushes her from behind before telling her she will see her in the ring.

Backstage, Cesaro and Shorty G argue over Cesaro's elimination of Shorty G in the battle royal. Cesaro implies someone like Shorty G cannot be Intercontinental Champion, and tells him to either walk away or get beaten in the ring. Shorty G punches Cesaro and says "Challenge accepted."

Lacey Evans vs. Sonya Deville ends in a double count-out. After the match, Lacey sends Sonya into the announce table, and Sonya tells Lacey she will fight her on her own time.

We hear from The Forgotten Sons (Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler, Wesley Blake). Wesley Blake makes it clear they will not turn the other cheek, and that everyone's blood is now on theirs as they do unto others.

As Nikki Cross tells Alexa Bliss she has a surprise for A Moment of Bliss tonight, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E) sneak up on them.

It's time for A Moment of Bliss. Tonight's guests are The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E). Nikki gifts The New Day with a box of Scottish pancakes, and The New Day return the favor with coffee beans. When asked if there are any standout tag teams on SmackDown, Kofi mentions The Forgotten Sons (Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler, Wesley Blake). As Big E is about to ask the same question of Alexa, Bayley and Sasha Banks show up. Bayley says she sees two tag team champions in the ring, but not the best tag team. Sasha throws her coat at Alexa Bliss, then Bayley mocks Alexa and Nikki. Alexa then mentions that Sasha is the only non-champion in the ring. Bayley says Sasha is the best in the women's division, and Sasha says she and Bayley put the women's tag titles on the map, and says that without them, the women's tag team titles would not be here. Alexa tells Bayley to name the time and place, then Bayley says Sasha will show how good she is when she beats Alexa tonight. Alexa accepts the challenge for right now, then throws Sasha's jacket back at Sasha and drop kicks her.

Bayley and Nikki Cross guest on commentary for the next match.

Sasha Banks beats Alexa Bliss after Bayley gets on the ring apron and pushes Nikki Cross into Alexa as Alexa is on the top rope when Nikki tries to keep her from interfering.

It is announced that Elias is currently in stable condition.

Shorty G beats Cesaro with a roll-up out of a powerbomb.

In footage from earlier today, Otis and Mandy Rose have a day out by the pool drinking peach champagne. As Otis goes to the pool, Mandy falls asleep and has a dream where she and Mandy kiss while another Mandy watches. Mandy wakes up after Otis splashes her with a cannonball in the pool, then she and Otis kiss in the pool.

We hear from Kurt Angle, who says that it is great to be back on SmackDown. He says that he looks forward to Randy Orton vs. Edge at Backlash, then announces that Matt Riddle is coming to SmackDown. We then see a video package of Matt Riddle during his time in NXT.

Backstage, Sheamus shows up and says that while Jeff Hardy and Matt Riddle bring all the hype, he gives the results, and says that he will not let "a little rat" like Daniel Bryan or "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles stand in his way of becoming a Grand Slam Champion. He says he will leave a trail of bodies in his wake, for his world is no place for the weak. Daniel Bryan shows up, and when Sheamus mocks him, Daniel Bryan kicks him in the shin and leaves.

Next week: The Miz and John Morrison's warning to Braun Strowman! Bayley and Sasha Banks vs. Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships!

Daniel Bryan beats Sheamus to advance to the finals of the Intercontinental Championship Tournament after Jeff Hardy shows up out of nowhere, distracting Sheamus and allowing Daniel Bryan to hit the running knee for the win.

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for February 14, 2020

The show starts with A Moment of Bliss. Nikki Cross correctly predicts Alexa Bliss' celebrity crush is Brad Pitt without revealing her own, then Alexa and Nikki introduce tonight's guest: Carmella. Carmella says that she will shock everybody when she beats Bayley to become a two-time SmackDown Women's Champion, then mentions that until last week, she and Bayley used to be the best of friends. After pictures of Carmella and Bayley together in happier times are shown on the TitanTron, Carmella says that Bayley has become a completely different person who trashes everyone after Sasha Banks returned, and that Bayley even refuses to acknowledge her. Suddenly, Bayley shows up and says this is about Carmella, not Sasha, and that she has pitied Carmella since NXT, as she saw potential in her and tried to teach her, but she is a loser. She then says that nobody on stage can touch her. Carmella proposes putting her own money where her mouth is and having their title match right here, right now before heading to the ring.

Bayley retains the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship against Carmella after pinning Carmella's shoulders to the mat during a Code of Silence attempt and using the ropes for leverage. After the match, Bayley lays out Carmella, then Naomi shows up and confronts Bayley. Carmella shoves Bayley into Naomi, then she and Naomi fend Bayley off.

It is announced that King Corbin has been heavily fined and barred from competing this week following his actions from last week's show.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Bayley, who does not care how she beat Carmella tonight before stating that nobody can touch her as she defends the SmackDown Women's title at Super Show-Down.

We see footage from YouTube of Lacey Evans talking about how she carries letters from fans in her boots to remind herself why she does what she does. It is then announced that there will be an exclusive interview with Lacey Evans next week.

Backstage, Otis gets ready for his date with Mandy Rose. Tucker shows up and tells Otis that he will do great on tonight's date, and says Mandy will like him for all he has to offer if she deserves him.

Sheamus beats Shorty G and Apollo Crews in a 2-on-1 handicap match.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Carmella, who demands a rematch after how Bayley won tonight, and promises she will become the next SmackDown Women's Champion.

Hulk Hogan is interviewed via satellite. He says that the nWo being reunited for the WWE Hall of Fame is strong and "4 Lyfe," and says he knows the power of both Goldberg and "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt and that Bray should try to survive Goldberg. Bray Wyatt then interrupts the satellite feed nWo-style, saying that he has been following Hogan's advice before making a "Too Sweet" joke with Huskus the Pig Boy. Hogan tells Bray that Goldberg will be no joke, and wishes him luck. Bray says he does not need luck, as he has The Fiend, and says there is always room for one more. Hogan tells Bray he will see him in Tampa, Florida.

We look back on The Rock's appearance on the February 14, 2011 episode of Raw, which was the first appearance of The Rock in seven years.

Cesaro and Sami Zayn are in the ring. Sami Zayn states they are holding a protest concert, stating that they and Shinsuke Nakamura are victims at the hands of Elias, Braun Strowman and WWE. They are about to play when Elias shows up. Elias says that he knows that Sami is trying to make his name off of him, but Sami asks Elias who he thinks he is interrupting him. Elias states he is staging a counter-protest, and Sami asks security to let him into the ring. Sami states that he wants Elias to hear his song, as a lot of it has to do with him. It is not long before the fans loudly chant for Elias as well as for cowbell after Cesaro goes overboard on the cowbell. Cesaro teases playing the cowbell only to throw it to the side. Even as Sami plays the ukelele, the crowd continues to loudly cheer for Elias, and the concert soon turns into a 2-on-1 brawl that sees Braun Strowman march to the ring. Strowman bowls over security while chasing down Sami Zayn, and when a member of security attacks Strowman to no effect, Strowman and Elias toss him over the top rope after Strowman chases him into the ring.

Backstage, Naomi says she is sick and tired of Bayley and deserves a title shot, and that Bayley is afraid to face her.

John Cena returns to SmackDown in two weeks!

Next week: Carmella vs. Naomi, with the winner facing Bayley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship at Super Show-Down! Goldberg returns!

Otis meets Mandy Rose for the date at a fancy restaurant. Suddenly, Dolph Ziggler shows up before Otis does, and Otis drops his bouquet of roses before walking away.

Before the next match, The Miz and John Morrison say that The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) are not here and have Roman Reigns fighting their battles for them while they are always here. After The Miz says that he and Morrison are the best tag team of the 21st century, Roman Reigns shows up, then his tag team partner is revealed to be Daniel Bryan. Suddenly, King Corbin shows up in the crowd with a ticket in his hand, and he sits in the front row.

Roman Reigns and Daniel Bryan beat The Miz and John Morrison. After the match, King Corbin jumps the barricade and hits Roman with his scepter before sitting at his sedan on the stage to end the show.

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

Layin' da Super SmackDown - Super SmackDown recap for January 31, 2020

Roman Reigns shows up to start tonight's show, and The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) soon join him. Roman Reigns says that while he beat King Corbin at Royal Rumble, he lost the men's Royal Rumble match. He plans to bounce back tonight by winning tonight's six-man tag team match. Suddenly, King Corbin, Robert Roode and Dolph Ziggler show up. Corbin tells Roman that he knows that without The Usos, he couldn't have beaten him without having to cheat his way to victory, and says that if the three of them had not attacked him, he would have won the men's Royal Rumble match. As a result, he has demanded a six-man tag team match so they can pay for what they did. The Usos remind Corbin that the three of them did all the damage, not just them, and Corbin calls The Usos an embarrassment to their family as his crew embarrassed Roman. Roman says Corbin is still living in the past as if embarrassing him was the greatest moment of his career, and after stating that Corbin, Ziggler and Roode may have a dog food fetish, he then proposes that the losers of their match eat dog food. Corbin accepts this stipulation, and The Usos bring out a surprise for them: a whole table of dog food.

The team of The Miz and John Morrison beat The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder), The Lucha House Party (Lince Dorado and Gran Metalik) and Heavy Machinery (Tucker and Otis) in a tag team Fatal 4-Way match.

Backstage, Heavy Machinery (Tucker and Otis) are met by Fire and Desire (Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville). Mandy Rose thanks Otis for the help in the women's Royal Rumble match, then Otis asks Mandy out on a date next Friday. Mandy says she has plans next week, but she is free the Friday after that. Fire and Desire leave, then Tucker reminds Otis that the following Friday is Valentine's Day.

We see a video of Daniel Bryan backstage following Royal Rumble.

We look back on the Halftime Heat Empty Arena Match between Mankind and The Rock from 1999.

Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross beat Fire and Desire (Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville).

Braun Strowman beats Shinsuke Nakamura to become the WWE Intercontinental Championship after Sami Zayn and Cesaro's plan to distract the referee so that they can expose a turnbuckle fails when Strowman quickly uses that exposed turnbuckle in his favor. After two Raw tag team titles, Strowman finally wins singles gold.

Backstage, a frantic Sami Zayn is interrupted by Elias, who is in the ring playing guitar. Elias tells Sami that nobody wants to hear him talk and that he is moving things along. Sami tells Elias that nobody cares about him or his "little jingles," then tells him to shut his mouth as what he has to say is more important. Elias gives Sami the floor, then proceeds to play guitar anyway. He continues to interrupt Sami, who commands Cesaro to take care of the situation. Elias proceeds to perform a song, but he is quickly interrupted by Cesaro. Cesaro and Elias brawl in the ring, and Elias quickly overpowers Cesaro.

Sheamus beats Shorty G.

Bayley shows up. Bayley says there is something about her that can't be taught, produced or touched after she showed how to win at Royal Rumble and made good on all of her promises regarding Lacey Evans. After bragging about doing everything she did to Lacey in front of Lacey's own daughter, she says that Lacey's daughter will see Lacey as a failure, and tells Lacey to look to her as an inspiration along with the rest of the fans, as a true champion surpasses them all. She says that she has beaten them all, and says that Charlotte Flair will predictably choose to challenge her for the SmackDown Women's Championship. As she calls Charlotte out, however, she gets Naomi instead. Naomi says she could not help but overhear Bayley's trash talk, bragging, and lying, and tells Bayley she has yet to beat her before saying the SmackDown Women's title could use some glow. Bayley attacks Naomi as she keeps talking, but when she tries to hit her with the SmackDown Women's Championship, Naomi ducks and overpowers Bayley, forcing her to retreat.

Next week: the return of The Dirt Sheet! Daniel Bryan live! Firefly Fun House returns!

Roman Reigns and The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) beat King Corbin, Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode. As per pre-match stipulation, Corbin, Ziggler and Roode must eat dog food. After the match, The Usos handcuff Corbin, and Roman hits Corbin with a Spear to ensure he does not get away. The chains of the shackles are placed over the ring post, and Corbin is covered in dog food.

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

Layin' da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for January 3, 2020

Backstage, Daniel Bryan is met by The Miz, who says that "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt violated his home and that he needs to avenge what The Fiend did by taking away everything that he cares about. The Miz then admits that Daniel Bryan earned the right to face The Fiend, and asks him to defeat The Fiend not just for the WWE Universal Championship, but for him and for everyone.

Bayley and Sasha Banks show up to start tonight's show. As Bayley says that everyone has made it to 2020 and talks about Lacey Evans, her daughter and Dana Brooke, Lacey and Dana show up. Lacey says it is her passion to show a positive example and set a better life for her daughter. After stating that Sasha and Bayley have used her seven-year-old daughter to get to her, she then says she has made it her New Year's resolution to stop her. Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross show up, and Alexa says that she and Nikki can see what is going on, then asks if they belong in the next match before Nikki proposes they try to get the women's tag titles back. Alexa says that she and Nikki might as well start 2020 with a win.

Lacey Evans and Dana Brooke beat the team of Bayley and Sasha Banks and the team of Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross in a Triple Threat Match.

Backstage, Otis is met by Mandy Rose. Otis tells Mandy he knows what Dolph Ziggler did because his mother saw it, and Tucker shows up to tell Otis he has a match.

Backstage, The Miz meets The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E). The Miz is in a down mood, but Kofi reminds The Miz that he had a very good 2010s. The Miz mentions what "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt did to him, then smacks the tray of pancakes out of Kofi's hand. Miz challenges Kofi to a match, and Kofi accepts the challenge.

Elias is in the ring. He sings about the hopes he has for 2020 while making fun of numerous Superstars, then says everyone will walk with him at Royal Rumble.

In footage from earlier today, The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder) talk about their match from last week. Wilder says they risk life and limb just to be made into jokes, and Dawson says respect should be put on their names. Shorty G shows up and says that they should embrace who they are and not to listen to the negativity. Wilder says he never really thought of it that way, and he and Dawson make fun of him. Shorty G is undeterred, but Wilder challenges him to a one-on-one match. Shorty G accepts the challenge.

Scott Dawson guests on commentary for the next match.

Shorty G beats Dash Wilder by disqualification after Scott Dawson gets involved in the match. After the match, The Revival attack Shorty G. All of a sudden, Sheamus shows up for the first time in months and chases The Revival out of the ring before hitting Shorty G with a Brogue Kick.

Kofi Kingston beats The Miz with an O'Connor Roll. After the match, The Miz attacks Kofi from behind, then quickly runs away. Miz then becomes frustrated with the fans on the stage.

Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Daniel Bryan and Roman Reigns. Daniel Bryan says that The Miz is mentally breaking, as has everyone who has faced "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt, and says he hasn't been broken yet because he is unbreakable. After Daniel Bryan says he will win the Universal Championship, Roman Reigns says he will enter the men's Royal Rumble, win the match and face him for the title that nobody beat him for. Daniel Bryan says he is always ready, and will be even more ready at WrestleMania. Roman Reigns says the only people not ready tonight are Dolph Ziggler and Baron Corbin.

Backstage, John Morrison - who has not been seen in WWE since 2012 - comes out of The Miz's dressing room and tells Cathy Kelley that The Miz has nothing else to say right now.

Before the next match, Drew Gulak tells Otis that there is no way that Mandy Rose will ever date him, as she wants a man with a mind and a physique like himself or Dolph Ziggler, and says that Otis looks like he is leaking butter. Gulak then presents a 372-slide PowerPoint presentation about Mandy Rose will never date Otis, then Otis grabs Gulak and tosses him into the ring to start the next match.

Otis beats Drew Gulak. During the match, Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville are watching from backstage. Dolph Ziggler shows up and tells Mandy to apologize to Otis.

Braun Strowman beats Cesaro. After the match, Shinsuke Nakamura hits Strowman with the Kinshasa.

Next week: Lacey Evans vs. Sasha Banks!

Roman Reigns and Daniel Bryan vs. King Corbin and Dolph Ziggler ends with the appearance of "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt. Daniel Bryan fights The Fiend, but The Fiend quickly overpowers him. As Roman checks on Daniel, Ziggler and Corbin attack Roman, then handcuff Roman to the ring post to pour dog food on him. Suddenly, The Usos (Jimmy and Jey Uso) - who have not been seen in months - show up and fight Ziggler and Corbin off. They then release Roman from the handcuffs to end the show.

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

Layin 'da SmackDown - SmackDown recap for November 22, 2019

At the start of the show, the SmackDown roster is addressed by SmackDown's men's Survivor Series team. Roman Reigns tells everyone that NXT is coming tonight, and that they will not be cowards like King Corbin; instead, they will let NXT in and beat them. King Corbin starts arguing with Roman, but Sasha Banks says she waits for nobody and that her team is ready to take care of business right now.

SmackDown's women's Survivor Series team (Sasha Banks, Lacey Evans, Dana Brooke, Nikki Cross, Carmella) shows up. Sasha says this is their ring and their show, and that they are ready to put their differences aside and take care of business, as nobody will attack them from behind. She says that NXT doesn't have the guts to return, and that she knows Raw is here. She calls out Raw's women's team, and Raw's women's team (Charlotte Flair, Sarah Logan, Asuka, Kairi Sane, Natalya) shows up. Charlotte thanks SmackDown for opening the door - even though they would have kicked it down, anyway - and proposes to Sasha they go one-on-one for old times' sake. As the Raw and SmackDown teams argue, NXT's women's team (Rhea Ripley, Candice LeRae, Tegan Nox, Mia Yim and a quietly revealed without fanfare Toni Storm) show up. Rhea Ripley states that NXT has guts, and decides to put herself in the proposed match. A series of verbal arguments turns into a brawl between all three sides.

Rhea Ripley beats Charlotte Flair and Sasha Banks with a crucifix pin to Charlotte after getting underneath Charlotte during the Figure Eight and pinning her. After the match, Charlotte and Sasha go at it, and Raw and SmackDown's women's teams brawl. All the while, NXT's team makes fun of both teams while Raw is forced to stand down and SmackDown stands tall in the ring.

Backstage, King Corbin tells Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode they will lead by example, and says that when NXT shows up, they will let NXT beat up Roman Reigns and his partners in their six-man tag match so they can do it again themselves. Suddenly, Sami Zayn shows up. Corbin tells Ziggler and Roode that Sami is annoying, and Sami dares Corbin to call him annoying to his face before his entrance music hits.

Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviews Bayley. Bayley says she is prepared, as she is the only person to win all of the current women's titles. She says that if "The Queen of Spades" Shayna Bazler shows up, she is ready, as she is too impulsive for her own good. She says that Baszler only attacks when her back is turned, and that she is waiting and ready for her when she is done hiding in the shadows.

Before the next match, Sami Zayn says King Corbin will not show up because she is afraid of him and Shinsuke Nakamura, just like everyone else. He then says the one word Corbin cannot call him is "annoying," and says the one word that does describe him is "stud," for as big of a stud he is, Nakamura is bigger to the point that he has given him a brand new Intercontinental Championship. He and Nakamura then trade belts, saying that this is the only way to take the title off Nakamura, then he and Nakamura make fun of Roderick Strong's name. Suddenly, The Undisputed Era (Adam Cole, Bobby Fish, Kyle O"Reilly, Roderick Strong) show up. As Sami and Nakamura get out of the ring, Adam Cole introduces The Undisputed Era before proclaiming that they will wipe the floor with Raw and SmackDown. Suddenly, The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E) show up, and Kofi says that The New Day never got a chance to give them a proper goodbye when they last met. He then proposes a match between The New Day and The Undisputed Era to settle the score. The Undisputed Era like the idea of a four-on-two team, but Heavy Machinery (Tucker and Otis) arrive to back The New Day up.

The Undisputed Era (Adam Cole, Bobby Fish, Kyle O"Reilly, Roderick Strong) beat The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Big E) and Heavy Machinery (Tucker and Otis). After the match, Roderick Strong confronts Shinsuke Nakamura on the ramp when they are both attacked by "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles. Sami Zayn hits Styles with a chair before doing the same to Strong. The rest of The Undisputed Era chases Sami to the back.

After the commercial break, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles says he is the best thing going on in Chicago, Illinois and that he is not going anywhere to prove who The O.C. (Styles, Luke Gallows, Karl Anderson) really are. As the crowd chants "CM Punk," Styles says that he would wipe the floor with him, then mocks Sami Zayn for hitting him with a steel chair and tells Roderick Strong to enjoy his fifteen minutes of fame before Daniel Bryan shows up. Daniel then says he is here to summon "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt, and says that while he does not care what goes on in his mind, Bray does not know what goes on in his. He calls out Bray so that they can have a face-to-face meeting before Sunday. He also says that if talking doesn't have fun, then they can fight. As Daniel keeps talking, the lights go out. When they come back on, nothing has happened. Daniel is undeterred, and continues to call Bray out. Instead, he gets The Miz. Miz says that it has become clear that unlike Daniel, he is a professional, and says he had to hold back after being disrespected on his own. Daniel says he doesn't care, but Miz says the feeling is mutual. After stating he hopes that Bray tears him apart, he says that he tried to help Daniel since day one to no avail, then proceeds to slap him in the face.

The Miz vs. Daniel Bryan ends in a no-contest. During the match, the lights go out. When they come back on, they are all red, and The Miz is replaced by "The Fiend" Bray Wyatt, who puts the Mandible Claw on Daniel Bryan.

"The Queen of Spades" Shayna Baszler shows up. Baszler says she has heard what Bayley had to say about her, and that Bayley is getting the message. She then calls Bayley out. She is then attacked from behind by Bayley, starting a brawl. Baszler soon gets the upper hand and puts her in the Kirifuda Clutch as Bayley tries to escape. Bayley escapes the hold after mutiple attempts after pushing Baszler into the ring post, but Baszler is fired up by that and Bayley runs to the back.

King Corbin, Dolph Ziggler and Robert Roode beat Roman Reigns, Shorty G and Mustafa Ali. After the match, Roman hits Corbin with the Superman Punch, then the Raw locker room comes down from the crowd. Seth gets in the ring with Roman, and both men brawl before the Raw locker room floods ringside. Suddenly, Braun Strowman and the SmackDown locker room runs in to fight off the Raw Superstars. This is soon followed by Triple H and "The Heartbreak Kid' Shawn Michaels leading the entire NXT locker room into the arena in an army Jeep. The entire NXT roster runs towards the ring, starting a massive three-brand brawl. The show ends with a standoff in the ring between Keith Lee and Braun Strowman. The entire NXT roster runs towards the ring, starting a massive three-brand brawl. The show ends with a standoff and a brawl in the ring between Keith Lee and Braun Strowman.

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