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.
Showing posts with label Tiffany Stratton. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Tiffany Stratton. Show all posts
Gunther heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Gunther says he has prided himself as a professional his entire career, but since he has joined SmackDown, he has been mistreated. He chalks it up to possible jealousy from General Manager Nick Aldis, then says he should be Undisputed WWE Champion right now and everybody knows it. Gunther says that all that prevents him from being champion is Aldis himself, as he made this personal. He then states that Aldis is forcing him to team up with Sami Zayn against "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes and CM Punk at Saturday Night's Main Event, then calls Sami "a bum" who is beneath him and calls being put in this position unacceptable. Raw General Manager Adam Pearce shows up and says that Gunther should be thanking Aldis for saving his job after his actions in the last few weeks, and says that if it were up to him, Gunther would have been fired. He then says the position came from the higher-ups and that Aldis has made sure that his match with Sami Zayn against Cody and Punk goes as scheduled, including the stipulation. Pearce announces that if Gunther and Sami win on Saturday, Gunther will be added to the Undisputed WWE Championship match at SummerSlam, and the match will become a Fatal 4-Way. Suddenly, Cody Rhodes shows up and runs into the ring to attack Gunther, much to Pearce's chagrin. Cody sends Gunther out of the ring, then tells Gunther that it is on sight after what Gunther did to him and that Gunther will not make it past Saturday Night's Main Event. Cody then says that the road to Saturday runs through him and that he wants a one-on-one match with Gunther, and that all he needs is Pearce's blessing. Pearce makes the match official.
Backstage, Raw General Manager Adam Pearce announces that Rhea Ripley is closing to returning from injury, yet it is his unfortunate duty to announce that Rhea will not be able to compete at SummerSlam. Pearce announces that tonight and over the next few weeks, there will be five matches to determine who enters a ladder match to decide an Interim WWE Women's Champion. When Rhea Ripley returns, an undisputed champion will be decided.
Finn Balor beats Talla Tonga after hitting Tama Tonga with the Sling Blade on the outside.
Backstage, CM Punk meets with Raw General Manager Adam Pearce. He feels that Gunther wants to hurt "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes instead of win, but Pearce says that Cody wants his receipt. Punk says he will talk to Cody, then meets with Damian Priest, who thanks him for the shout-out from last week and is waiting for him if he still champion. Punk says he and Cody will be waiting if he and R-Truth stay tag team champions. Punk leaves, then R-Truth shows up, apparently having heard nothing that Priest and Punk were talking about.
We hear from Jade Cargill, Nia Jax, Jacy Jayne and Tiffany Stratton, who are looking forward to winning tonight and advancing to the ladder match to decide an Interim WWE Women's Champion.
Tiffany Stratton beats Jacy Jayne in an Interim WWE Women's Championship ladder match qualifier. Before the match begins, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) attack Tiffany, but Brie Bella and Paige rush in to even the numbers and make the match truly one-on-one.
We hear from Baron Corbin, who says he has been watching everyone think they can walk the walk and talk the talk when he is the real deal and everyone knows it. He says that Trick Williams is the first name on a long list while Carmelo Hayes is collateral damage. He tells Trick to smile while he can and enjoy it while he can, because he is coming for it all.
Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Trick Williams, who calls Baron Corbin "a bald-headed bitch," then Carmelo Hayes shows up and says that Trick Williams is not better than him and that he can see it just by looking at him. Trick says he has been on SmackDown longer than him and has done nothing, then tells Carmelo to mind his business while grown folk are talking.
Actor Matthew Rhys is seen in the front row.
Jade Cargill beats Nia Jax by disqualification in an Interim WWE Women's Championship ladder match qualifier after Charlotte Flair shows up, attacks B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim at ringside, then hits Jade Cargill with a big boot in the ring in full view of the referee. After the match, Charlotte wraps a metal folding chair around Jade Cargill's right arm, but Michin and B-Fab pull Cargill out of the ring. Cargill is declared winner by disqualification, and an angry Nia Jax squashes Charlotte in the corner and leaves. Cargill then hits Charlotte with Jaded.
Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Gunther. Gunther says that "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes always finds a way to make everything about him and solely acts on emotion, and tonight, he will beat rationale into Cody. As for tomorrow, he does not care about Sami Zayn, and he will go into SummerSlam and become Undisputed WWE Champion. Candice LeRae wheels Johnny Gargano out, and tells Gunther that if he wins, Sami Zayn is also in the Undisputed WWE Championship match, and that she and Gargano need this win. Gunther tells Candice to tell Sami to show up, shut up and not get in his way. Gunther leaves, and Blake Monroe - who has been waiting in the background - attacks Candice from behind before introducing herself. Blake leaves, then tells Gargano he needs a haircut.
Backstage, Nia Jax and Lash Legend demand consequences for Charlotte Flair from Raw General Manager Adam Pearce, and Pearce gives Nia Jax another opportunity at the Interim WWE Women's Championship ladder match next week against Charlotte Flair.
The Relyea Family are the recipients of tonight's Papa John's Seat Upgrade.
The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) beat Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom).
In footage from earlier today at Fantatics Fest NYC, LA Knight makes fun of The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) alongside Royce Keys and Solo Sikoa before stating that the three of them will beat The Usos and Jacob Fatu at SummerSlam. We then see even more footage from Fanatics Fest NYC.
Backstage, CM Punk meets with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes regarding his match with Gunther tonight, asking if it is a good idea. Cody says it is not, but Punk would have done the same thing. Punk tells Cody that he has his back tonight in case Gunther tries to hurt him, but Cody tells Punk to watch from backstage as he does not want him at ringside.
Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Danhausen. Danhausen says he will not be outnumbered, then puts a cage with a stuffed black cat inside it on a nearby table, saying the cat will curse JD McDonagh on Saturday. A nearby monitor sparks, then Danhausen says he and Jackie should run.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes vs. Gunther ends in a no-contest. During the match, CM Punk heads to ringside to cheer Cody on, and later on, Sami Zayn comes out of the crowd to attack CM Punk at ringside. Cody confronts Sami, and Gunther goes for a sleeper hold on a distracted Cody only for Cody to slip out and hits Sami with a tope suicida. Cody gets back in the ring, and Sami drags Cody back out of the ring and attacks him in full view of the referee, ending the match. After the match, Punk and Cody brawl with Gunther and Sami, and officials rush in to break up the brawl as the show ends.
Sami Zayn heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Sami says it seems a lot of people came to ride or die with "the last real good guy," then thanks the fans for their support before finding it hilarious that the people who were previously booing him once wanted him to be world champion. He says he could be petty and tell those who gave up on him to kiss his ass, but he will not, because he is a good guy and he never changed. He says that he did not become selfish to win the WWE Undisputed Championship and that he won it his way and the right way. He also says that he could tell those who said he could never win the big one to kiss his ass, but he will not, because this is a celebration and he will forever go down as one of the all-time greats, a WrestleMania main eventer and a Grand Slam champion. As Sami states that nobody can take this away from him, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes suddenly shows up and heads to the ring. Sami asks Cody what he wants to talk about. Cody says that Sami was the first to celebrate with him when he won his first WWE Championship, and that he is here to return the favor before he shakes his hand. Cody is about to leave when Sami asks him to stay and just be himself for a moment, as he has something that Cody once had and will want again, and asks Cody why he is really out here when "Main Event" Jey Uso shows up. Jey Uso and Sami Zayn do their old friendship handshake before Jey tells Sami that he is proud of him and that he deserves it, but tells him that he wants to bring the gold back to the family and that it is just business. Cody asks what year it is and asks when Jey was reduced to running errands for Roman Reigns, and Sami Zayn says that as far as he is concerned, the WWE Championship is still in the family and that it is not going anywhere. He tells Jey and Cody to stay away from him. Raw General Manager Adam Pearce shows up as Sami Zayn leaves, and says that as his first order of business taking over for Nick Aldis is to find a new challenger for Sami. Sami wants some say on his SummerSlam opponent, but Pearce says his new challenger will face him next week on Raw and it will be whoever wins between Jey and Cody tonight.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Charlotte Flair, who says that Jade Cargill got what she deserved and that she will keep teaching Cargill lessons until she gets the picture. Alexa Bliss shows up wishing that Charlotte told her she was at Night of Champions. As Alexa and Charlotte argue, Tiffany Stratton shows up and says she did not need her help, but thanks her. Chelsea Green shows up and says Jade Cargill should be worried about them, then Charlotte says "You're welcome" to Tiffany.
Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab beat Tiffany Stratton, Chelsea Green and Charlotte Flair in a six-woman tag match.
Backstage, General Manager Adam Pearce ends an angry phone call with Nick Aldis when Sami Zayn shows up. Pearce says he has given him a great opportunity to show he is a great champion on a great show, then runs off. Sami almost smacks another water bottle, then smacks it anyway when he sees Johnny Gargano and Candice LeRae and tells Gargano that he won the big one and could not have done it without him. Sami says that one must stay true to themselves to win championship gold, then has Candice take a picture of him with Gargano.
Rey Fenix retains the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship against El Hijo del Vikingo.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Giulia. Giulia says she does not back down from any fight, and if Blake Monroe stops being a coward, she will fight her anytime and anywhere. Kiana James shows up and says that Giulia is the kind of person to bite the hand that feeds her and that Giulia got lucky. Suddenly, Giulia is attacked from behind by Blake Monroe, and when Kiana mouths off at Giulia, Blake Monroe attacks her, too.
Backstage, Jimmy Uso is talking to Jacob Fatu when Royce Keys shows up. Jimmy wants to know where Solo Sikoa is on family business, and Royce says that blood does not make one family and that he has been loyal to Jacob for fourteen years, which makes him his family. Jimmy says "Not no more. Right, Jacob?" Jimmy leaves, and Jacob follows suit.
Trick Williams and Lil Yachty head to the ring. Before Lil Yachty can speak, Carmelo Hayes suddenly appears and makes his way to the ring. Carmelo says that Trick got the job done and that they have no choice but to run it back for the WWE United States Championship, then gives credit where credit is due to Trick Williams and says Trick is only unstoppable because he has not chosen to stop him. He says that Trick has changed the WWE United States Championship from a title to an accessory and that he can just buy him a replica title from WWEShop, then says the United States title is the workhorse title for those who are starving, and Trick looks like he has had too much to eat. As Carmelo tells Trick to put the title up against someone he knows best, saying that Trick has "two left feet and a mouth full of marbles" when in the ring with him, then Lil Yachty interrupts and tells Carmelo he has his match next week. He then says the match is not for the title, as Carmelo has had his chance and Trick needs to get his reps in, and that when Trick wins, Carmelo will have no more excuses as to why he cannot get the job done. Trick acknowledges that given their history, he knows Carmelo like the back of his hand, then turns around and backhands Carmelo before leaving with Lil Yachty. Carmelo responds with a dive over the top rope that takes out Trick. Trick has to stop Lil Yachty from retaliating.
Backstage, Danhausen has Kit Wilson and The Miz in his lab when Matt Cardona shows up. Danhausen mentions that he has a match with JD McDonagh on Saturday Night's Main Event, then says he has back-up local to New York City for the match. Dahausen then has Cardona twist a knob on a machine, which smokes when Cardona does so, and Danhausen thinks The Judgment Day (Liv Morgan, Raquel Rodriguez, Roxanne Perez, JD McDonagh, "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio) sabotaged his equipment before leaving while Miz and Kit get shocked.
Lainey Reid beats Brie Bella after Jacy Jayne and Fallon Henley get involved on the outside.
Backstage, Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom), R-Truth and Damian Priest have a hot dog eating contest, which R-Truth wins. Fraxiom leaves, the The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) show up and Ivar eats the hot dog while Erik asks if they will accept their challenges with both of their tag team titles on the line. R-Truth accepts their challenge to a winner takes all match, as does Priest, and Priest says it will happen on SmackDown.
Backstage, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes is met by Finn Balor. Cody welcomes Finn to SmackDown, and Finn says he has wanted to face him. He hoped that it would be for the title, however, and tells Cody to get the WWE Championship back. Cody leaves, then Tama Tonga shows up and says that he has thought about what Finn told him. Talla Tonga shows up from behind and attacks Finn, then Tama says he is closing the books from everything in his past and that Finn is next.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats "Main Event" Jey Uso to become #1 contender for the Undisputed WWE Championship next week on Raw after hitting Cross Rhodes following a sleeper hold attempt by Jey Uso in the corner.
Trick Williams and Lil Yachty head to the ring to start tonight's show. Trick says that he had to miss SmackDown last week because he went to Jamaica and got married, stating that Lil Yachty, Lash Legend and his whole family were there. He then shows off his wedding ring. (This is in fact, real, as he and Lash Legend got married last week.) He then mentions that Ricky Saints is the next person he will defend the United States Championship, then says that he will beat Saints' ass and head to SummerSlam as champion. Saints shows up and says that Trick is not good at making life decisions, then warns Saints that he has smacked him once and he will smack him again now that he has interrupted him.Saints states that Trick's hype train will be coming to an end, but Trick says that Saints should be concerned about what he will do when he kicks his teeth down the back of his throat. Saints also asks if Lil Yachty comes with the United States Championship when he wins it before punching Lil Yachty and running out of the ring. When Trick helps Lil Yachty up, Saints runs back in and attacks Trick.
Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Alexa Bliss. Alexa says that Charlotte Flair is feeling the emotional and physical pain after what Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab did to her, and says that she will get revenge even if she has to team up with Tiffany Stratton, who says that she only cares about beating Cargill. Alexa knows Tiffany and Charlotte have history, but she wants to return the favor. Tiffany says they will get through tonight, then says Charlotte and Alexa can do whatever they want as long as they leave her out of it.
B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim beat Alexa Bliss and Tiffany Stratton when Tiffany Stratton goes for the Prettiest Moonsault Ever only for Jade Cargill to show up and trip her off the top rope. After the match, Chelsea Green shows up as Cargill, Michin and B-Fab are about to attack Tiffany, who actually appreciates the favor. Tiffany, Chelsea and Alexa stand tall in the ring.
Backstage, Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga meet with Solo Sikoa. Tama says they are tired of getting dragged into Solo's war with The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, "Main Event" Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Jacob Fatu), then also bring up Solo costing them tag team gold and Solo helping LA Knight. Talla says they have received word from "the elders," and that they are out. Solo says they cannot leave, but Tama says "We just did" before he and Talla leave. Solo says that nobody leaves him before the show cuts to a commercial break.
Backstage, Jade Cargill demands a match with Chelsea Green tonight from General Manager Nick Aldis. Aldis says he will make it happen.
Rey Fenix retains the AAA World Cruiserweight Championship against Nathan Frazer.
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Damian Priest and R-Truth. R-Truth is focused on getting the old Judgment Day back together, and Priest says that they want to face more tag teams. The War Raiders (Ivar and Erik) show up, surprised that Truth and Priest are still champions, and challenge them to a title vs. title match. R-Truth does a Razor Ramon/Scott Hall impression before Priest accepts their challenge.
Backstage, LA Knight shows up and Jackie Redmond interviews him. Knight says he is heading down to the ring to get some answers.
We see a video package for "Main Event" Jey Uso vs. Gunther in the King of the Ring Tournament finals.
LA Knight heads to the ring. Knight talks about what happened on Raw and how Jimmy Uso saw himself looking at the lights, then says that Jimmy got what he deserved even though he respected him before addressing the unexpected assist from Solo Sikoa. When Knight calls out Solo, Solo shows up and heads to the ring. Knight says that every time Solo heads to the ring, they always fight because he attacks or distracts him, but Solo says he is not here for a fight. Solo says that everybody in his family has left him, and Knight says that while he gets it, he does not feel sorry for him, and says that this will lead to Solo returning to The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, "Main Event" Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Jacob Fatu). Knight then wants to know why Solo did what he did, and Solo says he hates The Bloodline and hates being part of the group, and finishing them is the only way he will feel better. He then says that the only thing they have in common is that they do not like The Bloodline. Knight says Solo should hate Roman Reigns, much less The Bloodline, for what he did to him, and says the rest of The Bloodline should hate him, yet they went right back into the fold.At the same time, Knight says the has no reason to trust Solo and that nothing will be different, but Solo says it is different because he has no family and he has nothing to lose. He says it is just him now, and the enemy of his enemy can be friends. He says they can work together and watch each others' backs to take out The Bloodline, but Knight is not buying it, especially when he has heard "It's just me" before. Knight admits that he hates The Bloodline and has been outnumbered by them, and that he probably needs help, but he does not need Solo Sikoa, saying he lives and dies doing things his way. Knight then says "Thanks, but no thanks" and walks off.
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Sami Zayn, who says he called last week's WWE Championship match down the middle until he was pushed around. He says nobody gets it except a planking Johnny Gargano near an embarrassed Candice LeRae. He then says good things happen to good people and that he will soon wrestle for the WWE Championship. Sami admits the last few months have not been great and that he has not been himself since he failed to win the WWE Championship and lost, but because he stayed true to himself, the universe has given him an opportunity to redeem himself. He looks to Gargano and realizes he could be WWE Champion.
Paige beats Jacy Jayne with a schoolkid pin after taking out Lainey Reid and countering a roll-up with a schoolkid pin.
Backstage, Danhausen continues to experiment on The Miz and Kit Wilson, who now have white streaks in their hair. Matt Cardona shows up and says he has the craving to be Zack Ryder again. All of a sudden, Kit Wilson and The Miz. Danhausen leaves, then Los Garza (Angel and Berto) show up wanting to find Danhausen and get their money, and Cardona has no idea and tells them to find him themselves. They leave, and Danhausen chides Zack Ryder for looking at the body under the sheet.
Backstage, Tama Tonga and Talla Tonga run into Finn Balor, who is glad to see them and to see Tama make his own decisions. They mention their history, then Tama says it was a long time ago before mentioning Shinsuke Nakamura was part of his past too, and that everyone saw how that went.
Danahusen comes out with The Miz and Kit Wilson, and they all head to the ring. Danhausen welcomes everyone to "Danhausen TV." When asked about being replaced on his own TV show by Danhausen, Miz says "Awesome!" When asked about Los Garza's (Angel and Berto) recent actions by Danhausen, Kit Wilson says they are toxic. Los Garza run into the ring and attack The Miz and Kit Wilson, then confront Danhausen wanting their money. All of a sudden, Matt Cardona shows up. General Manager Nick Aldis then shows up and makes a tag team match between Los Garza and the team of Cardona and Danhausen, which happens right now.
Matt Cardona and Danhausen beat Los Garza (Angel and Berto) after The Miz and Kit Wilson stop Garza from using a chair and Berto goes up top only to be hit by corner pyro.
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Gunther. Gunther says he is the one who needs to be redemption after being screwed out of WWE Champion twice, then says that Saturday will go down very differently.
Zuffa boxer Aaron McKenna is seen in the crowd.
We see a video package for Iyo Sky vs. Liv Morgan in the Queen of the Ring Tournament finals.
Jade Cargill beats Chelsea Green. After the match, Cargill attacks Chelsea, and Tiffany Stratton and Alexa Bliss run to the ring. Cargill retreats, and B-Fab and Michin run into the ring. The brawl ends with Cargill hitting Jaded on Tiffany Stratton.
Backstage, Byron Saxton interviews Solo Sikoa. Royce Keys shows up and tells Solo that "Main Event" Jey Uso is coming for him, then wishes him good luck.
We see a video package for Bron Breakker vs. Seth "Freakin'" Rollins in a steel cage match at Night of Champions.
Backstage, Jackie Redmond interviews Trick Williams and Lil Yachty. Yachty tells Ricky Saints now has their full attention and has earned himself a tricky situation for his sucker punch. Trick Williams says Ricky Saints did everything to get in the ring with him, and now he is, and that Night of Champions will be "Night of Trick Williams."
Giulia beats Kiana James. After the match, Giulia is suddenly attacked from behind by Blake Monroe.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. Before Cody can speak, Sami Zayn shows up and thanks his "ride or die" fans who have supported him since day one, then says that he regrets how he handled last week's WWE Championship match. When asked if this was a mistake by Cody, Sami says this was a mistake and that this is not what he wanted, but Cody has none of this and says that this is exactly what Sami wanted. Cody says that for a guy who claims not to get a break, thinks are looking up for him, and that he finds him exhausting to deal with, then finds him just as annoying as Kevin Owens. Sami tells Cody to keep Owens' name out of his mouth, then says that if were not for him, Gunther would be WWE Champion, and that Cody should be thanking him for that. He also says he will be the reason that Cody is no longer WWE Champion on Saturday. Gunther shows up and says he does not care about what is going on between Cody and Sami and that he only cares about the WWE Championship, and that Sami is right about last night and Cody knows it. He also says that Sami is wrong about leaving Night of Champions as WWE Champion, because he will. He says that as a referee, he caused a lot of damage to him, but as a wrestler, he is "a non-factor," as he has never been WWE Champion and never will be. Gunther then tells Cody to enjoy his last night as "golden boy," for he will be walking out of Night of Champions and into SummerSlam as champion and as King of the Ring, not him. "Main Event" Jey Uso shows up and heads to the ring, but Gunther stops the entrance theme reprises. Jey Uso says he will become King of the Ring and pull up on Cody at SummerSlam, and warns Sami that if he gets involved, he will get him, too. He then tells Gunther like he will make him tap out "like a little bitch" like he did at WrestleMania. This starts a brawl. Cody and Jey make quick work of Sami and Gunther, then have a staredown. Suddenly, Oba Femi makes his presence known, and he heads to the ring. Oba stands on the ring apron as Jey superkicks Cody out of the ring, then Gunther gets back in the ring and clotheslines Jey before confronting Oba. Sami then attacks Gunther from behind, then Cody gets back in and hits Sami with Cross Rhodes. Oba then stands before Cody as Cody picks the WWE Championship back up, and both men have a staredown as the show ends.
Rhea Ripley heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Rhea mentions Jade Cargill and her crew attacking her to send a message only to piss her off, and now that she is back, she is itching for a fight. Rhea tells Cargill that if she wants her rematch, she will happily beat her again at Clash in Italy for the WWE Women's Championship. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss show up, and Charlotte tells Rhea not to get ahead of herself as they all still have a six-woman tag team match, and Alexa says they need to be on the same page. Charlotte also wants to know where Rhea was when they were attacked last week. Rhea says she was with family in Australia. Charlotte says she needed her help, but Rhea mentions that Charlotte told her she did not need her help. Rhea asks Charlotte how she can trust her to have her back if she cannot have Alexa's, and Charlotte takes this as Rhea drawing a wedge between her and Alexa. Suddenly, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) shows up. Jacy Jayne is entertained by Charlotte and Rhea arguing, which she says all started when Fatal Influence stepped onto the scene. She also says that while they have been at each others' throats, Fatal Influence have ascended to the top. She says that when there is an opportunity, Fatal Influence takes it. Charlotte challenges Fatal Influence to a tag team match later tonight. Jacy says that is all she needed to hear.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga). Solo Sikoa says Talla Tonga is more than ready and that he wants everyone, including Tama Tonga, to watch what Talla does to Shinsuke Nakamura tonight. Royce Keys shows up and confronts Solo Sikoa for costing him a title match, and tells Solo to stay out of his business. Solo says that if Royce did not need his help, all he had to do was say so. He just says that Royce needs somebody to watch his back, and asks who better to do it than family.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair meets with Alexa Bliss. Alexa tells Charlotte that she is sick and tired of Charlotte and Rhea bickering and that they will be the ones teaming up tonight out of the three of them.
Talla Tonga beats Shinsuke Nakamura following the distraction and interference attempt by Solo Sikoa. After the match, Solo Sikoa goes for the Samoan Spike as Talla Tonga holds Nakamura down. Tama Tonga stops Solo, then attacks Nakamura himself. Solo goes for a Samoan Spike again, but Damian Priest shows up with a metal folding chair. Solo, Talla and Tama leave the ring.
We see a video package for Roman Reigns vs. Jacob Fatu in Tribal Combat at Clash in Italy.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with referee Charles Robinson regarding the power outage, then meets with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. He asks Cody to let him handle Gunther and make sure the contract gets signed. Cody agrees, then runs into Sami Zayn, who tells Cody that if he needs help, all he has to do is ask. Cody says "Thanks, but no thanks" and leaves. Sami then meets with Aldis, and is told that time is tight. Sami says that he is owed a little respect and cannot get a match, even though Cody can get time to address his fans while he cannot. Cody shows up, having overheard everything, makes himself Sami's opponent tonight.
Backstage, The MFT's (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) meet in the locker room. Tama Tonga says that everyone thinks they are weak, and says that Solo Sikoa has to handle Damian Priest and show that they are not weak, and that he must do this on his own for the family. Solo agrees, and tells Tama to get the match made.
Before the next match, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up. Nia says that tomorrow night she and Lash will end Paige and Brie Bella's nostalgia tour and take the women's tag titles back, and Lash says that taking Tiffany Stratton's title will be the perfect beginning to a golden weekend.
Tiffany Stratton retains the WWE Women's United States Championship against Lash Legend in an open challenge match. During the match, Chelsea Green shows up to support Tiffany Stratton from ringside. Near the end of the match, Nia Jax grabs at Tiffany as Tiffany is at the top rope, but Tiffany kicks her away. Chelsea soon sends Nia into the ring post, and when Lash grabs at Chelsea, Tiffany gets the schoolkid pin and the win to retain.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis finds out that the power issue in the arena is being caused by Danhausen working with his cloning machine. Danhausen disappears when he presses a button and the power goes out in the room.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews The Miz and Kit Wilson. The Miz insists that he is not cursed by Danhausen, despite what has happened to them as of late, then Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom) shows up. Axiom says that Danhausen has cursed The Miz, and Kit Wilson calls this disrespectful and toxic. The Miz then challenges Axiom to a match next week in his hometown, to which Axiom agrees.
Trick Williams and Lil Yachty head to the ring. As Trick Williams and Lil Yachty talk about The Miz interrupting them, Carmelo Hayes suddenly shows up and tells Trick to do the right thing, as Trick screwed him out of his championship opportunity. He also says that if it were not for Trick, he would still be United States Championship. Carmelo says that he is not here to discredit Trick and that he has always believed in him, then says there is a difference between carrying a title and being a champion. He says that he won the fans over with his hard work and his blood, sweat and tears, and tells Trick to give what both him and the fans want: a match for the WWE United States Championship right here, right now. Lil Yachty says that Trick Williams has a tight schedule, Carmelo tells Trick to make time for a title defense if his secretary allows for it, as the old Trick Williams would not have anyone telling him what to do. After Carmelo says that Trick was always good at playing second fiddle, Trick says that he does not eat dirty rice or chew his cabbage twice, and says that while he ended the open challenge, Carmelo will get his match tonight, and the ass-whupping is on the house. Trick Williams then calls for a referee for this impromptu title match.
Trick Williams beats Carmelo Hayes. During the match, Ricky Saints shows up to watch the match from ringside. Near the end of the match, Saints mouths off at Carmelo at ringside only to be shoved out of the way by authority at ringside, and when Saints' argument with referee Charles Robinson costs Carmelo the win, Carmelo knocks Saints off the ring apron. That allows Trick to hit the Trick Shot for the win.
Backstage, Sami Zayn is angry with himself again when he notices Johnny Gargano lying on a road crate. He tells Gargano what is going on, saying he knows what is going on around here and that Gargano is "the last good guy left" for letting nobody change who he is. When Sami leaves, Gargano knocks over the water bottle near his own head in reference to the two other water bottles that Sami has just angrily smacked around.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Ricky Saints, who is then immediately punched in the face by Carmelo Hayes. Carmelo then tells Saints to stay out of his business.
Charlotte Flair and Rhea Ripley beat Fatal Influence (Fallon Henley and Lainey Reid) after Charlotte gets a revenge-filled hot tag and hits Lainey Reid with Natural Selection following Rhea's Riptide in response to Lainey Reid hitting her with a superkick meant for Rhea. After the match, Rhea, Charlotte and Alexa Bliss are attacked by Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab. Cargill and Rhea are the only ones left near the ring, and Cargill hits Rhea with a pump kick followed by Jaded.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes. Cody says he and Sami Zayn are friends, but he does not recognize Sami so much and says that his change in attitude has become too much. He hopes to make Sami Zayn look in the mirror and become accountable, then says than Gunther can do whatever he wants, as he cannot change the fact that he is facing him.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab. Michin says that the women's division is lying about who is the best when they are the best, and that they will prove they are the best again. B-Fab says it is best their opponents not just show up. Jade Cargill says it is time to do the work and get her title back.
Solo Sikoa beats Damian Priest after Priest ends off Talla Tonga and Tama Tonga only for Solo to hit him with the Samoan Spike for the win. After the match, The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) attack Damian Priest before Royce Keys shows up and makes quick work of Tama and Talla before confronting Solo, who just walks away. Royce helps Priest up, and Priest almost choke slams Royce before realizing who he is.
Backstage, we hear from Brie Bella and Paige. Brie and Paige have talked about their successful women's tag team title reign and state that there is more to staying champion than brute strength. They state that when they step into the ring at Saturday Night's Main Event, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) will not know what hit them.
Backstage, Chelsea Green runs into Blake Monroe. They both introduce themselves to each other, then Blake Monroe says she saw Chelsea earlier and wishes she didn't. Blake leaves, then The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) rush out and smack her into some road crates.
Backstage, Royce Keys confronts Damian Priest, asking him what his problem is and telling him that R-Truth told him to have Priest's back tonight. Priest says he does not know or trust him, and says that Royce would have done the same thing in his shoes. Royce says that if it is an issue Priest wants, it is an issue Priest will get.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes beats Sami Zayn after Gunther suddenly shows up and puts Cody in a sleeper hold from the apron. When this happens, Sami charges at Cody, but Cody dodges and Sami nails Gunther instead. Cody then hits Sami with the Cross Rhodes for the win. After the match, Cody and Gunther brawl, and Gunther powerbombs Cody. Sami confronts Gunther before Gunther can put Cody in a sleeper hold, but Sami backs down and lets Gunther put Cody in a sleeper anyway. Sami has second thoughts about leaving Cody to Gunther as he leaves, and Gunther ultimately makes Cody pass out before holding up the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Jacob Fatu heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Jacob says that tomorrow night, he is not fighting Roman Reigns for the World Heavyweight Championship; he is taking the World Heavyweight Championship. He says that ever since they were young, everyone saw Roman as the future while seeing nothing in him, and now those same people want to talk nice to him. He says that history repeats himself, but everyone tagging in with him really wants to protect Roman. Jacob says that Roman was born with opportunity while he was born with doubt, then The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) make their way to the ring. Jimmy says they are not here to change Jacob's mind, as part of him is still proud of him while the other part is watching out for him, and wants to know if he has thought about what would happen if he lost to Roman. Jey says Jacob has not thought about that because he never thinks like that, and tells Jacob "Tribal Chief is gonna beat that ass" and break Jacob down emotionally and physically in front of his family. Jimmy says he knows Jacob's family will be in the front row, and if Jacob loses, they will have to acknowledge Roman Reigns as Tribal Chief. Jacob says that he is not losing and that he cannot lose, then says that Jay wants to school him on losing to Roman when he has never beaten Roman. He also tells Jimmy that there will be no acknowledging for his family, because the match is all about his family, who will see him become the new World Heavyweight Champion. Jacob says he is willing to put it all on the line, and asks if Roman is willing to do the same. He also tells The Usos that if they interfere in tomorrow night's, he will "burn the whole goddamn family tree down."
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews General Manager Nick Aldis, who says that Gunther's recent actions were completely unacceptable. All of a sudden, Ricky Saints says everyone should be talking about him and his debut, then says he has gone from facing "QB1" to "QB4." Matt Cardona says he is not here to pass the torch to guys like him, and that he will see him in the ring tonight.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis wishes Jacob Fatu well on his way out of the building, then Jacob Fatu runs into Royce Keys, who says that failure was never an option for Jacob Fatu and tells Jacob to "werewolf up" and beat Roman Reigns. Afterwards, Royce Keys runs into Solo Sikoa, and tells him to pick his words carefully. Solo says that last week was just the wrong place at the wrong time, then tells Royce Keys that there is room in his family for him and that he needs an answer soon, and time is running out.
We hear from Chelsea Green, who wishes Tiffany Stratton luck on her first title defense via a video on X (formerly Twitter).
Tiffany Stratton retains the WWE Women's United States Championship against Kiana James after Giulia inadvertently costs Kiana the victory while distracting the referee.
Sami Zayn is at the funeral for The Gingerbread Man. General Manager Nick Aldis says everyone just needs closure, then R-Truth shows up with a rose and says "I'm sorry for your loss" while trying to console Sami, much to Sami's chagrin.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss. Rhea says Fatal Influence have made an impression, but chose the wrong people to attack, and she cannot wait to get her hands on them. Charlotte says they can all get their hands on Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid), and Alexa has to get between them as things get tense and tell them that they need to trust each other.
Backstage, R-Truth meets on Damian Priest, who is more focused on Talla Tonga than the funeral for the Gingerbread Man. Priest asks R-Truth to stay backstage, as Solo Sikoa and Talla Tonga will get to R-Truth to get to him. He asks R-Truth to trust him, as he knows how to handle them alone.
Talla Tonga beats Damian Priest despite R-Truth and Damian Priest being able to fend off both Tama Tonga and Solo Sikoa. After the match, The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) are about to attack Damian Priest when Royce Keys shows up, causing them to retreat.
Backstage, Danhausen takes sign-ups for his tag team partner at Backlash when The Miz and Kit Wilson show up and notice that Danhausen has no tag team partner. Kit Wilson says that the only person toxic enough to team with Danhausen is Danhausen, who likes what he sees in Kit Wilson's mirror.
We see footage of Gingerbread Man in the middle of great moments in WWE history.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis meets with Paul Heyman regarding a contract when Gunther shows up. Aldis chides Gunther for his recent behavior even though he is happy to have him on SmackDown, then "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring, much to Gunther's chagrin. Gunther walks out angrily, and Heyman tells Aldis that he will handle this. Cody says that Gunther has made it clear that he is next in line, and would like it if Gunther would come out to the ring and do just that. Heyman shows up with a contract for a Gunther-Cody match, and Cody asks if Heyman is now Gunther's advocate. Cody then says the contract is not necessary and that they can just do this right now, but Heyman says he owes Gunther a favor and that this match is the favor he owes him. Heyman also admits that he is a big fan of Cody, and just wants him to know that he needs a contract when an undisputed heavyweight championship is at stake, and tells him that the contract for the match will be for Clash in Italy. Heyman hands Cody the contract, then tells Cody that if he wants Gunther's name on the contract, then he will have to get it himself. Cody notes that CM Punk, Roman Reigns and Brock Lensar are now gone and that Heyman is running out of options. Heyman says that he is not running out of options as he leaves, and that sooner or later, they all need the wiseman. All of a sudden, Gunther comes out of the crowd, and Cody fights back only to be put in a sleeper hold. Cody slings Gunther out of the ring and keeps him out, then says he does not sweat Gunther and dares him to get the high ground.
We see The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga) backstage. Tama Tonga says that Royce Keys is a problem that needs to be dealt with, but Solo Sikoa says he sees Royce as more of a solution than a problem and a perfect fit for the family. Tama says Royce embarrassed them, which does not sit right with him, and that he will handle business and show what he is all about. Talla Tonga is about to follow Tama, but Solo says that if Tama wants to go out on his own, then he will find out on his own.
Ricky Saints beats Matt Cardona.
At the Gingerbread Man's funeral, Sami Zayn is talking to someone about how this is all a big joke. The person he is talking to is a planking Johnny Gargano, and Sami wants to know if "Johnny Wrestling" is still in there. Johnny barely rises. As Candice LeRae checks on Gargano, Sami notices Rey Fenix, but Rey Fenix says this is not the time or place as Sami gets mad at Fenix being a funeral for something that was all one big shot at him.
Backstage, a ladder falls behind Brie Bella and Paige, then Danhausen streaks by, plucking a hair from Brie's head when Brie and Paige turn around.
We see another vignette for Blake Monroe as Blake Monroe picks a dress. Blake Monroe is coming soon to SmackDown.
Brie Bella and Paige head to the ring. Brie says there are a lot of teams in WWE saying they have wait to takes to beat them and become champions, but it is not so easy to beat them, and the results will always be the same. Paige says that this is not a nostalgia tour and that she and Brie are at the best they have ever been, and if The Judgment Day (Raquel Rodriguez and Roxanne Perez) want to step up, then they should step up, for they are the champions and this is their house. Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) shows up, and Jacy Jayne says that Brie and Paige are in over their heads and that The Judgment Day are not the ones to worry about, especially after they dropped them and left them laying in the middle of the ring two weeks ago. Fallon Henley says that Fatal Influence is taking over SmackDown, and that part of the takeover includes the women's tag team titles. Lainey Reid says there is plenty of gold to go around, and that Jacy will soon be WWE Women's Champion. Jacy then says they have business to take care, and tells Brie and Paige to get out of the ring to see how a real team gets it done. Suddenly, The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up. Nia says that Fatal Influence cannot just skip the line, and Lash Legend says that this is not NXT and that Fatal Influence will not get in the way of them getting the women's tag team titles back. Nia says Fatal Influence look like "discount mean girls," then Lash tells Fatal Influence to get to the back of the line before she and Nia lay out Brie and Paige. Rhea Ripley then heads to the ring for the next match - and stares down Lash Legend - on The Irresistible Forces' way out.
We see more footage of The Gingerbread Man at even more iconic moments in WWE history.
Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) beat Rhea Ripley, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss in a six-woman tag match after Jade Cargill shows up and yanks Rhea Ripley off the ring apron, allowing Jacy to hit Alexa with the Rolling Encore for the win. After the match, Fatal Influence back away from Jade Cargill as they leave the ring, and Cargill mockingly tells Alexa Bliss to get up. As Charlotte Flair gets in the ring, she is attacked by "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab. Rhea Ripley gets in the ring and lays out Michin and B-Fab, but she is taken out with a pump kick by Cargill. B-Fab then puts Alexa in a full nelson slam, and Charlotte tries to fight back only to fare no better.
Backstage, Royce Keys is met by The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso). They know that Royce has been talking to Jacob Fatu, and Jey tells Royce to stay in his lane or else he might catch Roman Reigns' eye.
We see even more footage of The Gingerbread Man at even more iconic WWE moments.
Royce Keys beas Tama Tonga.
Backstage, Danhausen performs a science experiment where he decides to make a clone with Brie Bella's hair and one of his own teeth with a cloning machine. It is not going very well.
Backstage, Tama Tonga is met by Shinsuke Nakamura, who says that not even his own brother will help him. Talla Tonga shows up and tells Nakamura to stay away from Tama, or else they will have problems. Nakamura says something in Japanese, then walks away.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis welcomes Trick Williams to the arena and to the funeral for the Gingerbread Man, saying that the rest of the broadcast is all for him. The ring is then prepared for The Gingerbread Man's funeral.
Trick Williams heads to the ring for The Gingerbread Man's funeral. Trick eulogizes The Gingerbread Man in song, then we see an AI-generated montage of The Gingerbread Man's life. During the moment of silence, however, Sami Zayn interrupts, calling the funeral a waste of SmackDown TV time and calling it a joke targeting him. He also criticizes how expensive the funeral is before getting in the ring while Trick takes his fur coat off, then says he would not do something like this because he has too much respect for himself, the fans and the show. Sami Zayn says he is a working class hero and that he represents his "ride or die" fans until the end, and says he has been all over the card against people who thought they would knock him off his perch and has been in the game for twenty years, then gives credit where credit is due to Trick for getting in his head. Sami then tells Trick that he played himself and that he will make a joke out of him, then tells Trick to enjoy his night before he sees him at Backlash. Sami turns to leave, then hits a cheap shot. All of a sudden, The Gingerbread Man rises from the dead and unmasks to reveal that he is Lil Yachty, who hits Sami Zayn in the back with a candy cane. Trick then hits the Trick Shot on Sami to end the show.
Backstage, Trick Williams, Lil Yachty and the Gingerbread Man nearly get run over by Danhausen's coffin go-kart.
Jacob Fatu heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Jacob Fatu mentions his confrontation with Roman Reigns and his desire for the Undisputed WWE Championship, as well as how Roman Reigns has said he is not ready. Jacob says that Roman is right when he said he was not ready. He says that he has been hearing that his entire life, then tells Roman to step into the ring and prove it. Suddenly, The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) show up and head to the ring. Jimmy says he agrees with what Jacob has had to say about levelling up, then asks him not to come at Roman Reigns and join the family so that he can do all that without having to face Roman. He also tells Jacob that the fans are not going to level him up. Jey then says it is too late for all that, as he stepped up, opened his mouth, and is now in the deep end and that they will see if he can swim. Jey says Jacob has to look Roman in the eye and get ready for war, then the MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, JC Mateo) show up. Solo tells Jacob that The Usos are lying to him and that he was the one to bring him into WWE, then asks The Usos what they will teach Jacob besides "how to yeet." He tells Jacob that he will not beat Roman unless he has an army, and that he himself has an army. Tama Tonga stops Solo, wanting to know why they are wasting their time and calling Jacob "a lost cause." Tama Tonga says that Jacob cannot beat Roman and that he cannot even beat Solo. Jacob superkicks Tama, and Solo holds Loa and Mateo back before Jacob challenges Solo to a match tonight.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Giulia and Kiana James. Kiana James says that she and Giulia have not been getting respect, but it only fuels the fire to win tonight. Giulia says she has beaten Tiffany Stratton once and she will beat her again and that she feels no pressure; only anger. Giulia leaves, then Kiana blames Cathy Kelley on her and Giulia arguing.
Tiffany Stratton beats Giulia to become the WWE Women's United States Champion!
In footage from earlier this week, Danhausen finds The Miz's home and knocks on the door. The Miz opens the door to find nobody there, but when he cloeses the door, he finds Danhausen in his house. The Miz kicks Danhausen out of his home, but Danhausen disappears again, then reappears in his pool. The Miz kicks him out, and dives at him only to fall into his own pool.
Cathy Kelley interviews Tiffany Stratton on the stage. Tiffany says it feels amazing to be back on top after having "the runner-up story," and now, she is a champion. She plans to show why the WWE runs on "Tiffy Time" until Brie Bella shows up. Paige also shows up with Brie Bella, and they head to the ring as Tiffany heads to the back. Brie says it feels incredible to stand in the ring as a champion, and says that while she could not compete with her sister Nikki Bella, WrestleMania was incredible, and she is glad she had the idea of calling an old friend she could count on and call "sister." Paige says that when Brie gave her the call to have her back at WrestleMania, it was a great way to come back home. She says it is great to be here with Brie after walking out of WrestleMania as the Women's Tag Team Champions. She admits it was a long, hard road, but she is back home, and SmackDown is her house and that she and Brie are not going anywhere. Suddenly, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss head to the ring. Charlotte says they are happy to see Paige back, but she and Brie have something they want. Alexa says they will not let WrestleMania get in their way. Charlotte says that if Paige wants to prove this is her house, she and Brie will have to face her and Alexa. Brie and Paige are down for a match and want to handle things in the ring tonight, and that leads to a referee coming to the ring. Referee Charles Robinson runs to the ring, making the match official.
Brie Bella and Paige vs. Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss ends with Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) showing up and taking out both teams.
We hear from people in East Palo Alto, some of whom are friends of Royce Keys, speak about Royce Keys as a role model. Royce Keys says it is his time to give back after making it to WWE, and that there is no stopping him.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. Cody talks about how he still made the decision to walk up the long ramp at WrestleMania as he felt it was the job of being Undisputed WWE Champion, and because he always gets back up when he falls. He says he wanted to send a message at WrestleMania that he would not be medically cleared afterwards and that he wanted to send a message to Randy Orton - who is not here tonight - saying Orton gave his best, yet he is still standing. He says he wanted to send a message to Sami Zayn, who called him "The Golden Boy," and that he showed up draped in gold because he, his family and he fans will all be gold. Cody then says that anyone who wants to face him that is currently 0-3, then tells outside forces to count their money and mind their business. He says that as champion, it is easy to find him, and that no matter where in WWE anyone might be, he is easy to find and hard to beat.
Backstage, Solo Sikoa tells JC Mateo and Tama Tonga to get the WWE Tag Team Championships back and to not mess it up and let the family down. Tama Tonga asks about Jacob Fatu, and Solo says that he will teach Jacob that without them, Jacob cannot beat Roman.
Damian Priest and R-Truth retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against The MFTs (Tama Tonga and JC Mateo) despite Tonga Loa distracting referee Dan Engler.
We see more footage from The Miz's house. He finds Danhausen at his virtual golf course, and Danhausen crotches Miz with a golf club. He accidentally breaks a Slammy Award as he walks off with it, then runs into Maryse. The Miz throws chocolate powder at Danhausen, but hits Maryse instead. Danhausen then gets away on Miz's daughter's bicycle, passing by a Cybertruck on the way out.
Trick Williams slaps a man in the face as he, Lil Yachty and the Gingerbread Man head to the ring.
Trick Williams, Lil Yachty and The Gingerbread Man head to the ring for a championsip celebration. Trick says that the fans are excited to celebrate with the new United States Champion after he came to WrestleMania to "whoop that trick," then Lil Yachty says that he is here to stay, saying he is the Quincy Jones to Trick's Michael Jackson. Lil Yachty then says that the United States open challenge is over and that Trick Williams is the ultimate opportunity, and he and Trick state that there will be no handouts. Afterwards, The Gingerbread Man smacks Trick Williams with the candy cane, then does the same to Lil Yachty when he checks on him. The Gingerbread man then takes off his mask to reveal that he is none other than Sami Zayn. Sami attacks Lil Yachty with a ground and pound, then hits Trick with the Helluva Kick before mockingly dancing around and leaving the ring.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Royce Keys. Royce says it has been emotional since his debut and that he is just getting started at taking everything he wants. Solo Sikoa shows up and says Talla Tonga is not happy about losing the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, then says there is always room for Royce Keys in his family.
Danhausen beats The Miz after cursing The Miz and Kit Wilson with a pyro blast. After the match, Danhausen sets off some more pyro, then The Miz chases after him and leaps over Kit Wilson on the way to the coffin kart, causing The Miz to comedically collide with Kit Wilson.
We see a vignette for Blake Monroe, who is coming soon to SmackDown.
Rhea Ripley heads to the ring. Rhea declares that she is champion again after beating Jade Cargill at WrestleMania. She admits that Cargill proved to her that she can go, but it is now her time to prove that she is a fighting champion. She knows that there are women in the back who want to take a shot at her, and if any of them want to step up, now is their chance. Suddenly, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) shows up. Fatal Influence is booed out of the building as Jacy Jayne gives Rhea Ripley credit where credit is due, then says Fatal Influence deserves the credit for taking out everyone's favorite legends tonight. Rhea Ripley admits she is impressed by Fatal Influence's actions tonight, then warns them to stop while they are ahead. Fallon Henley says that tonight is nothing compared to what Fatal Influence will do to Rhea. Rhea says she has been used to the numbers game by now thanks to Jade Cargill, and if Fatal Influence wants a fight, she is ready for a fight, and all Jacy Jayne has to do is take her shot. Jacy tells Rhea that Fatal Influence is always ready to throw hands, then General Manager Nick Aldis shows up and makes a match between Jacy Jayne and Rhea Ripley that happens right now.
Rhea Ripley beats Jacy Jayne by disqualification following a chop block from Fallon Henley as Rhea goes for Riptide. After the match, Fatal Influence (Jacy Jayne, Fallon Henley, Lainey Reid) gangs up on Rhea Ripley and lay her out.
Backstage, The Usos (Jimmy and "Main Event" Jey Uso) meet with Jacob Fatu. Jimmy says that The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, JC Mateo) will get involved one way or another and that they have his back, but Jacob says he does not need The Usos' help. After Jacob leaves, Jey tells Jimmy "Man, I told you!"
Backstage, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss are met by Rhea Ripley in the trainer's room. Charlotte Flair says that she will get her hands on Jacy Jayne next week, unlike some people, then Alexa tells Rhea that Charlotte is "just like this" as Charlotte leaves.
We see a vignette for Ricky Saints, who debuts on SmackDown next week.
Jacob Fatu beats Solo Sikoa after taking out the rest of The MFTs (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, JC Mateo). After the match, The MFTs attack Jacob Fatu, but The Usos make their way to the ring. Jacob Fatu fights The MFTs off single-handedly. Jacob wraps chairs around Tama Tonga and Jacob Fatu's chairs before hitting them with hip attacks, then beats up Tonga Loa before splashing him through the commentary table.
The show begins with Pat McAfee and Randy Orton arriving to the arena in a red Dodge Ram. General Manager Nick Aldis hands McAfee a contract and says they will have a chat, and Orton lets McAfee and Aldis handle things. McAfee asks Aldis to park the truck as he signs the contract. Orton makes his way to the ring, and says he will be the first to admit that he does not need Pat McAfee. He does want him, however, as he is the only straight shooter in WWE and does not tell him what he wants to hear, and tells him what he needs to hear. McAfee told him that he had to do was be himself, as he got into a title match with Drew McIntyre, who he was easy to be himself with. When "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes took the WWE Championship back, he did not want to hurt Cody at first. When Cody gave him permission to be himself, he took exception to that. He says that in his and Cody's give-and-take relationship, he kept giving while Cody kept taking. Orton mentions that he did not benefit from having Cody's back in the last two years, saying Cody did nothing but take and even gifted his then-friend Kevin Owens a title match only for Kevin to turn on Cody. Orton says he tried to reason with Owens only to be piledriven, which nearly cost him his career. He says that McAfee has done more and given to him in more than half a lifetime while Cody has done nothing but take. He says helping Cody has hurt his legacy more than anything else, and at WrestleMania, he will fix his legacy and take his fifteenth world title home where it belongs.
Backstage, Randy Orton rejoins Pat McAfee and General Manager Nick Aldis and gets in the red Dodge Ram. McAfee says everything will change for the better at WrestleMania and that he has put in a good word for Aldis before he and Orton speed off.
The MFTs (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) beat The Wyatt Sicks (Uncle Howdy, Erick Rowan, Joe Gacy, Dexter Lumis) in a eight-man tag team street fight after Solo Sikoa hits Uncle Howdy with a Samoan Spike as Tama Tonga is about to hit Howdy with Cutthroat.
Backstage, R-Truth and Damian Priest are talking about potential opponents. R-Truth wants to face The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Xavier Woods, Grayson Waller), but Priest says they are on Raw. R-Truth has to be reminded that Danhausen is cursing people, not Asuka. Also, when R-Truth says that Xavier Woods is so bad that he turned Sammy Sosa "lavender white white," Priest reminds him that he is really talking about Grayson Waller.
We see footage of The Miz renewing his vows with Maryse with Kit Wilson running the proceedings. All of a sudden, Danhausen suddenly shows up and ruins everything, and it leads to Danhausen cursing Maryse, who gets inadvertently shoved into a wedding cake by Miz when Miz gets his hands on Danhausen.
We learn more about Royce Keys, such as how his mother suffered a fatal overdose at the age of 61, which still pains Royce Keys and his family to this day. Royce feels that tapping into your emotions make you stronger, and knows that his mother is proud of him.
A police car is seen entering the arena. The driver gets out, and Jacob Fatu is helped out of the back. Jacob Fatu stands on the top of the car as he addresses Drew McIntyre, saying he still wants to double back about his life. He says he is not shamed or afraid of his past life and that he does not live that life anymore, and that McIntyre made a mistake in thinking that handcuffing him would embarrass him, as even the police know he is not the same guy. Jacob Fatu then says that this is where things get twisted, as they have an unsanctioned match and that no authority can keep him from beating up McIntyre or save McIntyre from him beating his ass. He says McIntyre tried to put him back in the jail cell where he changed his life when he already put the cell in his rear view mirror, and when he gets down beating McIntyre's ass, he will put him in the rear view mirror.
Backstage, Alexa Bliss looks back on 2025, and Charlotte Flair looks forward to winning tag team gold at WrestleMania. Alexa says that they need to win tonight.
Two-time NBA All Star Tyrese Haliburton is seen in the crowd.
R-Truth and Damian Priest retain the WWE Tag Team Championships against The New Day (Kofi Kingston and Grayson Waller).
We look back on Charlotte Flair vs. Rhea Ripley for the WWE SmackDown Women's Championship at WrestleMania 39, courtesy of Snickers.
Jade Cargill, "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab head to the ring. Rhea Ripley also shows up and heads to the ring before Jade can start speaking. Rhea says she would love nothing more than to lay Cargill out for all she has done, but she does not want Cargill to have an excuse not to walk into WrestleMania. Rhea also admits that she is usually not the most patient of people, and says Cargill is lucky she is not in the ring whupping her ass right now. She also says Cargill does not let her meet her face-to-face in the ring because she is scared. Rhea says she will embarrass Cargill at WrestleMania, but B-Fab says Rhea should be the one who is embarrassed because she keeps coming after Cargill and failing. Rhea says she has yet to come for Cargill because Cargill hides behind Michin and B-Fab, social media and anything she can to avoid coming face-to-face with her, and gives Cargill one last chance to say anything to her face alone. Cargill says she is not scared of "some cosplay kid with insecurities" and is everything Rhea wishes she could be as well as "a real bitch," and that Rhea only gets her way because of "a weak-ass locker room." She says she has been trying to scare Rhea, but since Rhea has not learned her lesson, she will put belt to ass at WrestleMania and make her quit. Rhea laughs at the idea of being like Cargill and says she has fought people like Cargill her entire life, and says her insecurities do not hold her back and make her who she is today. She says that if she wants to make it quick, it will not be in her favor, then goes on to call Jade "narcissistic" and a "fake-ass bitch."
Backstage, Solo Sikoa tells The MFTs (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) that they won tonight, and tells Tama Tonga that they did it as a team. Tonga agrees, then Solo tells Talla Tonga to win the Andre the Giant Battle Royal trophy and bring it home. He tells the rest of The MFT's to get Talla ready while he speaks with General Manager Nick Aldis about getting back the WWE Tag Team Championships.
Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Dion Dawkins is seen in the crowd.
Giulia and Kiana James watch the next match from ringside.
Tiffany Stratton beats Jordynne Grace to become #1 contender for the WWE Women's United States Championship. (The match was originally Tiffany Stratton vs. Giulia for the Women's United States title, but was changed hours before the show.)
Trick Williams heads to the ring. Trick says he is usually all smiles, games and jokes, but not tonight, as he has something to get off his chest. He addresses Sami Zayn's actions from last week, saying that he crossed a line. He addresses Sami Zayn hitting Lil Yachty with a Helluva Kick and that he does not know if Lil Yachty will come back, then says that they will not wait until WrestleMania and will take care of business right now before calling Sami Zayn out. Sami Zayn's music hits, then someone in a gingerbread man suit shows up and walks to the ring. Trick introduces everyone to "Sami Zayn, the gingerbread man" before stating that all of Sami Zayn's diehard fans are in Drury Lane. Trick then says that Sunday is all about him and his first WrestleMania where he gets his first United States Championship, and that he is going to whoop that trick. The real Sami Zayn shows up and says he is glad Trick Williams is taking his first WrestleMania so seriously, and that he wishes he was having as much fun as Trick, but he has not had a good time in a very long time. He says that he is not having a very good time even as champion, as are the fans, then says he does not care what he did wrong, as he does this everyday for the ride-or-die fans who have been with him since day one. Sami says there are plenty of ride-or-die fans at home and in Las Vegas, and they will be in his corner at WrestleMania and beyond, then gets annoyed with the person in the gingerbread man suit and tells them to stand in the corner. Sami then talks about his first impressions of Trick Williams before telling him that Trick has not showed him much since four months ago and has not showed him anything where it counts and when it matters. He says that when he looks at Trick, he does not see the future of the business; he sees "a little punk rookie" who is about to walk into his first WrestleMania with one of the best to ever do it and realize that he bit off more than he can chew because he walked in with no plan. Trick says he is the plan and that Sami has been losing himself and crashing out backstage, and while Sami is one of the most respected guys in the locker room, he threw it all away when he got in the game. Trick then says that he is the one who is going to get the job done, but Sami says that Trick is not in his head and that he is not impressed with the gingerbread man. Trick then says he is standing in the ring with two gingerbread men, and Sami Zayn goes for a cheap shot only for Trick to fight back. Sami clotheslines Trick out of the ring, then Sami sees the person in the gingerbread suit and hits him with a Helluva Kick that almost kicks the head off of the suit. Trick then gets back in the ring, hits Sami with the Trick Shot, and raises up the United States title.
We see a video package for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship picture at WrestleMania, courtesy of Progressive.
Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss vs. Bayley and Lyra Valkyria ends almost as soon as it begins due to The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) showing up to lay out both teams.
We see a video package for Brock Lesnar vs. Oba Femi at WrestleMania.
Royce Keys last eliminates Talla Tonga to win the 2026 Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.
We see a video package chronicling the events between Roman Reigns and CM Punk leading to their match for the World Heavyweight Championship at WrestleMania.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes heads to the ring. Cody says he will not be talking about the last three years' worth of WrestleMania, then says tomorrow is all about two men wrestling for the biggest prize of them all in him and Randy Orton. He addresses Orton's claims that he does nothing but take, then says Orton has never taken responsibility in his life. He remembers the things that Randy Orton did in 2009 and how he wrestled for the WWE Championship and lost. As Cody continues to talk about Orton, CM Punk suddenly shows up. Cody asks Punk if he is going to kick him in the balls and turn on him after they hug, but Punk says some people deserve it and that Cody does not deserve it. CM Punk says he is here to stop Cody from mentioning a certain person's name, then mentions each others' suits as well as Teddy Long's wedding, then Punk mentions that he was chasing Cody for a time to become champion, but now they are both champions at WrestleMania. Punk says he is beyond the point of giving Cody advice after Cody has said and done things he has yet to accomplish, and that while Cody has learned from the best, Orton is not much of a teacher. Punk says that tomorrow is uncertain, but he knows that they will both be here on Monday. Punk says that tomorrow is uncertain, but he knows that they will both be here on Monday. He says that Cody has done so much, and that he hopes that everyone joins them for the next adventure. Punk says he is proud of Cody, and Cody tells Punk to get it done. Cody stops Punk before he can leave and mentions Punk's match with Roman Reigns, as well as what Punk himself has accomplished throughout his career. He also mentions that Punk came back better than ever, then thanks Punk for everything he has taught and for sharing this moment in the ring with him and the fans. He also says that if it means anything, Dusty Rhodes would be proud of him, too. Cody tells Punk he loves him, then hugs him. Punk says he is not crying after a Friday in Las Vegas, and that he will cry after he wins at WrestleMania, then says the world titles are theirs as much as they are the fans' before celebrating with the crowd.
Randy Orton heads to the ring to start tonight's show. Orton talks about how he attacked "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes during their contract signing. He says that he shut out the voices in his head a long time ago, and that for the past few years, he has been thinking about his legacy as well as his fifteenth world championship, but when Cody gave him his blessing to be "The Viper" and the best that he can be. Orton says that he is now listening to the voices again and that he cannot be held responsible for what happens next; he says that his voices are not the problem, but everyone else's voices. Orton then states that there is one person outside of his head that he is listening to. All of a sudden, Matt Cardona shows up and strikes Orton in the head with the microphone in his hand.
Backstage, General Manager Nick Aldis is met by Trick Williams. Aldis admits he is impressed with Trick as of late and that he is giving him a match at WrestleMania. All of a sudden, Sami Zayn shows up, wanting to know what he will be doing for WrestleMania. Aldis says things have not been going Sami's way as of late, and unless something changes, he does not have a spot for him. Sami walks away, but then gets an idea, walks back the other way, punches Trick out, and then says he will have a match at WrestleMania one way or another.
Backstage, Randy Orton meets with General Manager Nick Aldis, angry at what Matt Cardona did earlier and wanting a match with Cardona tonight. He also say that if Aldis cannot make the match happen, the voices are going to take over. Aldis makes the match, but tells Orton to cool off on his own somewhere until then.
The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) show up before the next match. Nia Jax says there is still time to get tickets for Raw, when they compete Bayley and Nia Jax with the women's tag titles on the line. Nia then says that the fans will want to see "the wanna-be contenders" in Alexa and Charlotte try their best tonight as she calls The Irresitible Forces are the team they want to watch and that there is no spotlight without them. Lash says that The Irresistible Forces are hotter compared to The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) and calls Alexa and Charlotte's friendship "fake" before stating that they will not bring the show down too much and demanding that both teams then wrestle. The Irresistible Forces then watch the next match from ringside.
The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) beat Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair after Lash Legend punches out Alexa Bliss on the outside. After the match, Charlotte confronts The Bella Twins, then The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) attack both teams. All of a sudden, Bayley and Lyra Valkyria show up and brawl with The Irresistible Forces as they are about to double-team Alexa, and they quickly clean house. Charlotte shoves Brie down to the mat as she and Alexa leave the ring.
Backstage, Damian Priest finds R-Truth building a new clubhouse. Jelly Roll shows up, and R-Truth thinks that Jelly Roll is "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio. Rhea Ripley then shows up, and R-Truth takes this as Rhea Ripley and "Dominik Mysterio" getting back together again and hopes Liv Morgan does not see this. After R-Truth says that the clubhouse will have a hot tub, Jelly Roll warns Rhea Ripley that Jade Cargill is mean, violent, big and strong, yet Rhea Ripley is the one to humble Cargill at WrestleMania. He then leaves to get ready for his match with Kit Wilson, then R-Truth runs after him. Rhea congratulates Priest on winning the WWE Tag Team Championships with R-Truth, and Priest admits that while his gold is unexpected, he expects Rhea to get hers at WrestleMania and tells her to take care of Cargill already. Rhea says she is about to do just that.
Backstage, Charlotte Flair checks on Alexa Bliss when The Bella Twins (Brie and Nikki Bella) confront them. Charlotte tells The Bella Twins that they did not stand a chance without The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend), and tells them to get to the back of the line. Brie says they did not ask The Irresistible Forces to watch their match and tells Charlotte not to blame them, and that they came back to become Women's Tag Team Champions by any means necessary.
Rhea Ripley heads to the ring. Rhea says she never expected any integrity from Jade Cargill, as she was fully under the impression to do whatever it took to not get her hands dirty. She did not, however, expect B-Fab and "Michin" Mia Yim to be desperate enough to stoop down to Cargill's level. She says that if they want to play that game, that is fine, as it is WrestleMania season and she does not care who she has to go through to get there. Rhea says she is dressed for any occasion, and dares Michin, Cargill and B-Fab to join her. Jade Cargill shows up, as does Michin and B-Fab, and Cargill says Rhea sounds real slick for someone who got dropped last week, and says that Michin and B-Fab did not join her; instead, they positioned themselves in power. B-Fab calls Rhea "a selfish backstabber" who does not care who puts in the work as long as she gets the rewards, and Michin says she has been grinding for decades just like Rhea, and while she and B-Fab are forgotten, Rhea gets all the love and attention. Michin says they are tired of this and that they want theirs now, and B-Fab says Cargill gave them the opportunity and they took it, and that with Cargill, what you see is what you got. Cargill then says that Rhea can be their guest if she wants her ass kicked, then says that they spoke with General Manager Nick Aldis and that B-Fab has offered to step up, and that Rhea will learn tonight. Rhea tells Jade that they will learn that actions have consequences and that she is something that Cargill cannot protect B-Fab from. Rhea then calls for a referee, which leads to a match.
Rhea Ripley quickly beats B-Fab by disqualification after Jade Cargill attacks her on the outside. Rhea fights back after the match and goes for Riptide on Cargill, but "Michin" Mia Yim and B-Fab gang up on her before readying her for Jaded.
Backstage, Kit Wilson meets with The Miz, saying "The Miz Method" worked and that he wants The Miz in his corner. The Miz says Kit Wilson can do this on his own while trying not to have anything bad happen to him. The Miz leaves, then Danhausen shows up and asks Kit what he has that he himself does not. Kit Wilson says he looks the part while Danhausen is toxic. Danhausen interrupts Kit Wilson before he can finish that sentences, curses him and disappears.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Drew McIntyre. McIntyre is taped up, but still walking, and he admits that he can feel the pain from fighting Jacob Fatu last week. He says he is not here to fight tonight, but if Jacob Fatu wants to start something, he will finish it. He then says that Jacob Fatu took WrestleMania away from him and that when a man has nothing to lose, he is at his most dangerous.
Before the next match, Kit Wilson defends the honor of his mother through slam poetry. He then attacks Jelly Rock from behind with the poetry book.
Jelly Roll beats Kit Wilson with a choke slam, earning his first singles win in WWE. Jelly Roll celebrates with his son after the match.
Backstage, Solo Sikoa meets with The MFT's (Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo). Solo says that everything he does for the family is done out of love, as he knows just how great they can be. He says that his job is to lead this family, but he cannot lead if he is on the same page. Solo says last week was a little too much, and he apologizes before stating that Roman Reigns would not have done the same. The MFT's leave, but as Tama Tonga is about to join them, Carmelo Hayes asks Tama Tonga if he is going to take a shot at the United States Championship or if he is going to wait until Solo tells him to. Carmelo leaves, then Shinsuke Nakamura catches up with Tama Tonga again. Talla Tonga shows up, then Tama Tonga leaves with him.
Carmelo Hayes' open challenge for the WWE United States Championship is answered by Sami Zayn. Trick Williams then shows up and watches the next match from ringside.
Sami Zayn beats Carmelo Hayes to win the WWE United States Championship for the second time. During the match, Trick Williams takes the WWE United States Championship and throws it into the ring. Sami Zayn takes it, but the referee removes it. Trick gets on the apron, but punches Carmelo with a right hand meant for Sami Zayn. Sami Zayn then hits the Helluva Kick on Carmelo Hayes to win the match and the title.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Jacob Fatu. Jacob says he did not show up just to stay backstage, and then heads to the ring to speak to the people.
Members of the Pittsburgh Steelers are seen in the front row.
Backstage, Sami Zayn meets with General Manager Nick Aldis and finds out that he will be defending the WWE United States Championship against Trick Williams at WrestleMania.
Jacob Fatu heads to the ring. Jacob says he is limping, busted open, and has cracked ribs, and it all has to do with Drew McIntyre. He asks McIntyre what is wrong with him after trying to take him out, end his career and take food off his family's table. He says that kicking his teeth down his throat, hitting his head with the WWE Championship, hitting him with a car and even tossing him off the side of a building was not going to keep him down, and that he is still standing. Jacob says that as long as he has air in his lungs, he will dog walk McIntyre ever week. McIntyre shows up and says he is the victim, not Jacob, and that Jacob started this when he accused him of a crime he did not commit, saying that he is guilty until proven innocent and that Jacob is straight guilty because he is a criminal. He says that Jacob Fatu stole everything from him, then says "Screw your damn kids." General Manager Nick Aldis intervenes, saying neither man is in any condition to beat each other up tonight until WrestleMania, when they finally square off one-on-one. He then says McIntyre and Jacob have become liabilities to themselves and WWE and that WWE will not be held responsible, and that their match will be unsanctioned.
Backstage, Jelly Roll meets with Matt Cardona, saying he feels bad after what Randy Orton did to him. Matt Cardona wants to kick Randy's ass tonight, then Jelly Roll leaves and Zelina Vega and Aleister Black show up. Zelina says that Cardona is picking a fight he cannot win to fix his ego, and Aleister says that there would have been if it was just Randy, but Randy now has the voices in his hand.
Chelsea Green catches up with Tiffany Stratton. Tiffany declines Chelsea's help against Giulia.
Giulia beats Tiffany Stratton following the distraction by Kiana James, which allows Giulia to get the knees up for the Prettiest Moonsault Ever and get the win.
Backstage, Cathy Kelley interviews Bayley and Lyra Valkyria. Bayley says that she and Lyra Valkyria that they had to remind The Irresistible Forces (Nia Jax and Lash Legend) who runs SmackDown and who has their eyes on the women's tag team division. Lyra says that she and Bayley are the biggest threat to the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships, and Bayley says that they will get the job done on Raw.
Randy Orton is on the phone with someone. He tells that person that he will see them soon.
Randy Orton beats Matt Cardona. After the match, "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes comes out of his tour bus, heads towards the ring, and gets stopped by security and General Manager Nick Aldis. Cody says he just wants to talk to Orton, but Aldis reminds him not to jeopardize the WrestleMania match. Cody stares down Orton from the ring apron, and this soon leads to a brawl. Orton retreats, and security and officials try in vain to stop the brawl when it makes its way outside. Both Cody and Orton fight off security as they continue to beat each other up, and even Jelly Roll has to show up reason with both Cody and Orton. All of a sudden, Randy Orton hits Jelly Roll with an RKO and smiles on his way to the back.
