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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 11, 2022 4:33:22 GMT -5
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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 11, 2022 4:34:24 GMT -5
Undisputed WWE Universal Champion: Roman Reigns
Raw Women's Champion: Bianca Belair
United States Champion: The Miz
Raw Tag Team Champions: RK-Bro
Women's Tag Team Champions: Sasha Banks and Naomi
24/7 Champion: Dana Brooke
AJ Styles | Akira Tozawa | Angelo Dawkins | Apollo Crews | Austin Theory | Brock Lesnar Cedric Alexander | Chad Gable | Cody Rhodes | Commander Azeez | Damian Priest
Dolph Ziggler | Dominik Mysterio | Edge | Finn Balor | Gable Steveson | Kevin Owens
The Miz | Montez Ford | MVP | Omos | Otis | Randy Orton | Reggie | Rey Mysterio
Riddle | Robert Roode | R-Truth | Seth Rollins | Shelton Benjamin | T-BAR | Veer Mahaan
Alexa Bliss | Asuka | Becky Lynch | Bianca Belair | Carmella | Dana Brooke | Doudrop
Liv Morgan | Nikki A.S.H. | Queen Zelina | Rhea Ripley | Tamina 
Undisputed WWE Universal Champion: Roman Reigns
Smackdown Women's Champion: Charlotte Flair
Intercontinental Champion: Ricochet
Smackdown Tag Team Champions: The Usos
Women's Tag Team Champions: Sasha Banks and Naomi
Angel | Big E | Butch | Drew Gulak | Drew McIntyre | Erik | Gunther | Happy Corbin | Humberto
Ivar | Jey Uso | Jimmy Uso | Jinder Mahal | Kofi Kingston | LA Knight | Ludwig Kaiser | Mace
Madcap Moss | Mansoor | Mustafa Ali | Rick Boogs | Ricochet | Ridge Holland | Roman Reigns
Sami Zayn | Shanky | Sheamus | Shinsuke Nakamura | Xavier Woods
Aliyah | Charlotte Flair | Lacey Evans | Naomi | Natalya | Ronda Rousey
Sasha Banks | Shayna Baszler | Shotzi | Xia Li |
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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 11, 2022 4:45:38 GMT -5
WRESTLEMANIA SATURDAY | APRIL 2, 2022 | AT&T STADIUM | DALLAS, TX
1) Smackdown Tag Team Championship: The Usos(c) def. Shinsuke Nakamura and Rick Boogs 2) Singles Match: Drew McIntyre def. Happy Corbin (w/Madcap Moss) 3) Tag Team Match: The Miz and Logan Paul def. The Mysterios 4) Raw Women's Championship: Bianca Belair def. Becky Lynch(c) 5) Singles Match: Cody Rhodes def. Seth Rollins 6) Smackdown Women's Championship: Charlotte Flair(c) def. Ronda Rousey 7) No Holds Barred Match: Stone Cold Steve Austin def. Kevin Owens
WRESTLEMANIA SUNDAY | APRIL 3, 2022 | AT&T STADIUM | DALLAS, TX
1) Raw Tag Team Championship: RK-Bro(c) def. Alpha Academy and The Street Profits 2) Singles Match: Bobby Lashley def. Omos 3) Anything Goes Match: Johnny Knoxville def. Sami Zayn 4) WWE Women's Tag Team Championship: Sasha Banks and Naomi def. Carmella and Queen Zelina(c), Liv Morgan and Rhea Ripley, and Natalya and Shayna Baszler 5) Singles Match: Edge def. AJ Styles 6) Tag Team Match: Sheamus and Ridge Holland (w/Butch) def. Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods 7) Singles Match: Pat McAfee def. Austin Theory (w/Mr. McMahon) 8) Singles Match: Mr. McMahon (w/Austin Theory) def. Pat McAfee 9) Winner Take All Match for the WWE and Universal Championship: Universal Champion Roman Reigns (w/Paul Heyman) def. WWE Champion Brock Lesnar |
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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 11, 2022 14:09:26 GMT -5
APRIL 4, 2022 | AMERICAN AIRLINES CENTER | DALLAS, TX
Proceeding a recap video of WrestleMania weekend is the Monday Night Raw intro, followed by the cameras entering the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas coming out of the biggest weekend of the year. Jimmy Smith, Corey Graves and Byron Saxton welcome all from commentary as we come off of the high from WrestleMania - but there is no offseason in the WWE! Tonight, we hear from the new Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns and find out what is next for him. Plus, three championship matches as the United States Championship is on the line when Finn Balor defends against the The Miz, the NXT Championship will get a chance to shine as Dolph Ziggler faces Bron Breakker. And, in a rematch from WrestleMania night two when RK-Bro defend the Raw Tag Team Championship against The Street Profits and Alpha Academy. On top of all of this, after his incredible return against Seth Rollins on Saturday, Cody Rhodes will address the WWE Universe live for the first time in six years!The theme music of Roman Reigns hits, the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion arriving from the back along with Paul Heyman and Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos. Heyman has both the WWE and Universal Championship belts in his hands and holds them high above his head before presenting both over to Reigns. The four make their way down and into the ring together and look out to the Dallas crowd, letting the buzz die down before Reigns simple states: "Acknowledge me". Heyman and The Usos applaud and Reigns shakes his head, continuing on to say he has been telling everyone this entire time that he was going to walk into WrestleMania, smash Brock Lesnar and walk out with both the Universal and WWE Championship. "And for some reason there was still doubt... but what do the doubters say tonight, huh? What do the doubters say to 'The Head of the Table'?! 'The Tribal Chief'?! 'The Needle Mover'?! The Undisputed WWE Universal Champion! And now you will have the honor of seeing me every week on Raw and every week on Smackdown because I ain't going anywhere!" Heyman is then handed over the microphone as he prepares to speak only to be cut off by the theme music of 'The All Mighty' Bobby Lashley. The entire Bloodline is caught off guard by Lashley's arrival, the powerhouse coming down and into the ring and sizing up Reigns. "I'll make this short and sweet. That WWE Championship you've got right there, Roman, belongs to me." Reigns appears baffled by the comment as Lashley reminds him that at Elimination Chamber, he had to be removed from the match before he could even defend the WWE Championship because he got a concussion. "I don't expect to be gifted anything, Roman. I just say that I deserve to be the first in line for a shot at the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion." Before any more words can be said, Drew McIntyre ends up making his way out. Once in the ring, he tells Lashley that he understands the point he is making - it's a fair one. "But I've been waiting a long damn time to get back in the ring with you, Roman. I've been waiting a long damn time to get another championship match. And now that I've got things settled with Corbin, I think it's time I shift my focus back where it belongs: On you and those championship belts you've got over your shoulders." Heyman finally intervenes and says that they both have some nerve, thinking that they can just come out here and stake a claim. "On top of the nerve, you've both got some balls even entertaining the idea of stepping into the ring with my tribal chief!" Heyman questions if they didn't just hear all the words that Reigns said, or maybe they didn't stick around to see him smash Brock Lesnar last night to become the reigning, defending Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. Reigns ends up taking the microphone from Heyman before he can say anything else, moving closer in between McIntyre and Lashley in the process. "As your champion - and as your 'Tribal Chief' - I make the call. I'm not afraid of beating the hell out of either one of you. Hell, I'm more than willing to beat the hell out of one of you as soon as say... this Friday night." Both Bobby and Drew seem to like that idea, Roman then suggesting that they figure out right here tonight who is going to get that opportunity. "See, what I'm gonna do tonight is go back through those curtains and tell Adam Pearce or whoever the hell I need to let know that tonight we're going to have Bobby Lashley versus Drew McIntyre and I'll be waiting for whoever wins on Smackdown." While the two potential contenders are pleased with Reigns' apparent decree, the champion proceeds to leave the ring with Heyman and The Usos.Transitioning to some images from WrestleMania this weekend, the focus is on the Women's Tag Team Championship match where Sasha Banks and Naomi would end up defeating the former champions Carmella and Queen Zelina, Natalya and Shayna Baszler and Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan. Following the break, the new champions are in non-title action with Ripley and Morgan!
Following the break, footage from moments ago is shown of both Bobby Lashley and Drew McIntyre looking to get a shot at the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns with Reigns himself calling for a match between the two for the right to face him this Friday on Smackdown. Things then transition to during the break where WWE Official Adam Pearce would be confronted by Reigns, who would demand the match to happen, to which Pearce would ultimately oblige to the WrestleMania 37 rematch between Lashley and McIntyre.
NON-TITLE MATCH: WOMEN'S TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS SASHA BANKS AND NAOMI DEF. RHEA RIPLEY AND LIV MORGAN
A back-and-forth battle between the two teams, a brief argument between Ripley and Morgan allows Naomi to knock Ripley from the apron and allow Banks to place Morgan in to the Bank Statement for the submission victory at 9:05.Banks and Naomi are announced as the winners as they are presented with their newly won Women's Tag Team Championship belts. On the outside, meanwhile, Ripley has her hands on her hips looking down at Morgan, seeming somewhere between angry and disappointed in how things went down.
The cameras then pick up to a dark room backstage where Edge is seen standing in a suit, letting out a low chuckle. "You think you know me? You think you know us?" He asks to the camera as to his side steps Damian Priest. "See, AJ Styles thought he knew what he was encountering at WrestleMania, but there is no possible way to outsmart me: The omnipotent one. My words ring through the night and settle in the ears of those seeking their fullest potential and my words reached the ears of someone dying to deliver punishment: Damian Priest." Edge gestures his hand toward 'The Archer of Infamy', who states that before he heard Edge's words of wisdom, he was lost. "But I am beginning to understand who I truly am. And soon enough, everyone will know who that is as well." Edge says that they judged AJ Styles at WrestleMania and they will past judgement on anyone that challenges his message - their message.
NXT CHAMPIONSHIP: BRON BREAKKER DEF. DOLPH ZIGGLER(C) (W/ROBERT ROODE)
A rematch from NXT Stand & Deliver on Saturday afternoon, Breakker overcomes Ziggler's lightning quick offense and Roode's interference with his own speed and strength, putting Dolph away in the end with a military press slam for the pinfall at 10:45.
NXT Champion for a second time, Breakker is presented with the belt by the official and he holds hit proud above his head. "A special showcase for NXT here tonight with Bron Breakker regaining the NXT Championship under the bright Monday night lights!" Smith says. As Breakker climbs to the second rope to continue his celebration, Graves suggests on commentary that it won't be long before Breakker is on Monday or Friday nights regularly and having continued success!
Highlighting more from WrestleMania this past weekend, Seth Rollins would make his way down to the ring and await his surprise opponent, which would turn out to be the returning Cody Rhodes. After an exciting back and forth match with Rhodes ultimately walking out the winner. Up next, Rhodes will address the WWE Universe in the ring for the first time in six years!
"Wrestling has more than one royal family..." is heard throughout the arena, bringing the Dallas crowd to their feet. Back in the WWE after successfully defeating Seth Rollins on Saturday is Cody Rhodes. Playing up to the fans a bit, he takes his time coming down and into the ring, enjoying every moment. After letting the 'Cody' and 'Welcome Back' chants die down, he begins speaking in a WWE ring for the first time in six years. "It would be taking the easy way out for me to come out here and not mention the fact that I've been gone for as long as I have been. It would be taking the easy way out for me to come out here and not mention that while I was gone, I was building something new and something different." Rhodes says that through all he was doing in his time away from the WWE, the number one thing he was building was a new Cody Rhodes. "And while I was out there building that new Cody Rhodes, I had no idea that it was building a path for me to be back here in the WWE. To be back at WrestleMania! To be standing in the middle of the ring on Monday Night Raw!" After letting the crowd get some more noise and chants out, he lets out a few thank yous and says he just wants to make it very clear that while he is going to cherish every minute that he is back in this ring, he has his sights set on the very top. "It was a dream of mine since being eight years old to become World Champion and take that championship and place it in the hands of my father... 'The American Dream' Dusty Rhodes..." Getting a bit choked up, Rhodes gestures up to the titantron and shows an image of his father from 1977, celebrating with the World Championship at the time, Cody proceeding to tell a story of how Dusty had to explain to him the concept of 'the champion's advantage' of disqualifications and count outs not allowing the championship to change hands, where Dusty did not claim the championship despite winning the match. "And I made it my life goal to get into this business, become the World Champion and finally place that championship in the hands of my father... but... for obvious reasons... that dream is not physically possible... but what is possible? Getting that belt around the waste of 'The American Nightmare' Cody Rhodes!" The crowd is well behind Cody as he states that he will do this for his family, for all of them and for himself - he will scratch and claw if he has to, but he does, indeed, vow to become World Champion.Rhodes proceeds to slowly lower himself to all fours, planting a kiss on the center of the mat when he is interrupted by the music of the young Austin Theory. Fresh off of a WrestleMania loss against Smackdown color commentator and former NFL punter Pat McAfee, the Mr. McMahon protege isn't all smiles as usual as he heads down to the ring and stands across from a puzzled looking Rhodes. "So, this is the guy that Mr. McMahon hand-picked to face Seth "Freakin'" Rollins at WrestleMania! Wow!" Theory shakes his head as Rhodes interjects to say he doesn't think they've met yet, to which Theory replies with a laugh telling Rhodes that isn't necessary. "I am Austin Theory! The protege of Mr. McMahon himself! I'm the future of this business and the greatest Austin in WWE history! And you... you're Cody Rhodes. In the flesh, ladies and gentlemen! Back in the WWE!" Theory wags his finger and says that it was an impressive return, but he would have been much more interested if it were Stardust. "At least then it would've been a bit more interesting, y'know?!" The fans boo the dig as Theory gets a bit closer to Rhodes and says that all joking aside, he just wanted to be the very first on Raw to welcome him back because he is a huge fan. "I mean, after all, we have something in common that Mr. McMahon hand-picked us both for big time WrestleMania matches, right? Look, all I'm out here for is to ask you a post-WrestleMania Raw moment for me and all of the WWE Universe by taking a selfie with you: 'The American Nightmare' Cody Rhodes." After a moment of pondering, Rhodes shrugs his shoulders and agrees to take the picture. Theory is excited as he poses and holds his phone up, stopping himself and telling Rhodes to wait a second. "This doesn't happen very often, but I forgot to change the setting... the lighting is all off and..." Suddenly, however, Theory throws a low blow kick! "Ah, we should've known!" Saxton says with disgust. The Dallas fans boo loud as Theory proceeds to pull Rhodes up off of the mat and plant him with his signature ATL! Picking up his cell phone, Theory dusts himself off with a smirk and leans over Rhodes' downed body, finally taking a series of selfies over the body of Cody. Theory then walks proudly out of the ring, trash talking his entire way to the back, Rhodes rolling on to a knee and looking none too pleased.
Back from break, footage from moments ago is gone over by the commentary team where Cody Rhodes made a passionate speech about his return and ultimate goal before being lured in and attacked by Austn Theory. Back live, Mr. McMahon is seen sitting his office when into the room proudly walks his protege, Austin Theory, letting out a celebratory 'Woo!' as he asks McMahon if he just saw that. The Chairman stares sternly and points down at the seat across from him - Theory slowly taking a seat. "You seem awfully proud of yourself," McMahon says. "Going out there and crashing Cody Rhodes' return. Going out there and, quite frankly, stealing the spotlight from someone bearing their soul on their sleeve!" Theory asks if he is supposed to apologize, to which McMahon gives him a big 'hell no'. Slapping his hand across the table, McMahon says that he's really proud of what Theory did out there. "May not have been the best timing but I get exactly why you did it! You're defending your spot! You're making sure that the likes of Cody Rhodes know that Austin Theory is the future! Hell, a future World Champion! Maybe even before Cody Rhodes." Theory says that is exactly what he was doing, and he'll do it again if he has to! The two share a smile toward one another with McMahon's eventually fading as he urges Theory to run along, he has other business to attend to.
UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP: THE MIZ DEF. FINN BALOR(C)
A lengthy, competitive contest, Balor appearing poised for victory only to have Damian Priest arrive behind the official's back and push him from the top rope while set up for Coup de Grace, allowing Miz to hit the Skull Crushing Finale and get the pinfall at 13:44.
Miz is overjoyed for his victory, his good weekend extending into Monday as he becomes a three-time United States Champion. "Damian Priest joined up with Edge at WrestleMania to cost AJ Styles," Smith reminds. "And tonight, costs Finn Balor the United States Championship that Balor won from Priest himself!" Priest grins from atop the stage as an enraged Balor sits against the ring apron on the outside. Miz, meanwhile, continues his celebration atop the turnbuckles, mouthing off to the unimpressed fans.
Images from WrestleMania Saturday are shown out of the break, The K.O. Show with Stone Cold Steve Austin where Austin would be challenged to a match by Kevin Owens - leading to Austin's first match in nineteen years, where 'The Texas Rattlesnake' would end up emerging victorious. Back live, Kevin Patrick is standing by in the back and introduces Kevin Owens, bringing up the match with Austin and Owens' loss. "Maybe I underestimated Stone Cold Steve Austin," Owens replies. "Maybe I expected him to be not as much of a bad ass as he used to be and, well, I'll admit that I was wrong that he still had something left in the tank. But, allow me to remind you, that I did point out before our match that I had a back injury and if it weren't for WrestleMania and the WWE needing me, I wouldn't have even been at WrestleMania!" Owens declares it to be true, saying if people had paid attention, he was noticeably not walking normally on Saturday night. He then stops in the middle of his next sentence as arriving to the scene is Seth Rollins, who lets out one of his loud, signature laughs while clapping his hands. "Oh, Kev, man! You know, if only we had brought back The Rollins Report with Stone Cold Steve Austin... things would have turned out so differently!" Owens crosses his arms and quickly points out back at Rollins that he didn't exactly come out on top at WrestleMania either, losing to Cody Rhodes and all. "Yeah, well, at least you knew what you were getting involved with - I had no idea who my opponent was going to be!" Rollins waves his hands and tells Owens they shouldn't argue, because at WrestleMania if it weren't for the two of them, there wouldn't have been a match or a moment for Cody Rhodes or Stone Cold Steve Austin to be had. "And now that we have gotten past the most stupendous two-night event in WrestleMania history," Rollins says with another laugh. "I think it's time that Kevin Owens and Seth "Freakin'" Rollins get back on the same page. What do you say, Kev?" Owens thinks it over for a minute and then points toward Rollins, saying he thinks he has the perfect idea for them to get their friendship to reach its fullest potential. "Yeah, let's get back to it." The two then head off together as their alliance appears to be back on.
As Kevin Patrick seems to be prepared to wrap things up, he is then approached by the new United States Champion The Miz, who tells Patrick to not be going so fast. "Don't you want to get a word in with the new United States Champion, huh? Be the very first?!" Miz mentions that this is the first time in twelve years that he has held this championship and that is hard to believe. "Well, maybe not so much when you consider everything else I have been busy accomplishing but the fact remains! And you know what kind of person wins the United States Championship twelve years apart? Someone like me - not someone like Logan Paul!" Miz says that he has spent his career being the star and not trying to leech on to somebody else's success like Paul did with him at WrestleMania. "That is why tonight I become the United States Champion while Logan Paul goes off and continues to make videos for teenagers on the internet, okay? This is what success looks like! You're welcome for your fifteen minutes of fame in a WWE ring, Logan. Good luck in your future endeavors while I continue to be the most must see WWE superstar in history... because I'm The Miz... and I'm awesome." He pats the championship proudly and laughs, walking away proudly.
Seen walking together elsewhere in the back is the Raw Tag Team Champions RK-Bro. Having successfully defended the belts in a great opener on WrestleMania Sunday, they'll have their hands full in a rematch with The Street Profits and Alpha Academy after the break!
RAW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP: RK-BRO(C) VS THE STREET PROFITS VS ALPHA ACADEMY
Much like their battle on WrestleMania Sunday, a high flying, hard hitting and extremely competitive matchup between three of Raw's finest tag teams, things don't come to as an exciting of an end as Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins end up coming down to the ring and attacking all three teams, leading to the official throwing the match out as a no contest at 12:33.
Owens and Rollins continue to assault all three teams after the match, putting the boots to everyone in their path. The two of them then pick up the Raw Tag Team Championship belts from the mat and raise them over their heads. Riddle tries to come into the ring after the beat down but eats a Stunner from Owens for his troubles, Kevin all fired up as he shoves Seth in the chest. "We're the best! We're the best!" He shouts proudly while putting more boots to some of the others, Rollins having to yank him away and assure that the message has been sent. The duo then leave the ring together, the other six left laid out in and around the ring at their hands.
Transitioning to some images from WrestleMania this weekend, the focus is on the Raw Women's Championship match between Becky Lynch and Bianca Belair where Belair would end up defeating Lynch to become the new champion. After the break, 'The E.S.T. of WWE' and new champion speaks!
New Raw Women's Champion Bianca Belair arrives following the commercial break, sporting a black eye in the process. Coming down to the ring, she receives applause and cheers from the crowd. After it quiets down a bit, Belair speaks to the audience and says that this past Saturday was a long time coming. "I know that at WrestleMania last year I got to main event with Sasha Banks and make history," She stops herself and lets the crowd cheer for that reminder of a moment. "But what happened between Becky Lynch and me? That was a real long, long time coming." Belair brings up how she was embarrassed at Lynch's hand last year at Summerslam but she wasn't about to let that happen again. She wasn't about to let Lynch run her mouth and talk a big game against her - 'The E.S.T. of WWE'. "So, Becky gave me a good fight and I'll give her that and I walked out with a black eye... but more importantly I walked out with the Raw Women's Championship!" Belair says it is hard to win the championship, but even harder to defend it - but she is ready for any and all challenges.
As Belair begins to raise the belt up, she is interrupted by music not heard since last summer - the Dallas fans to their feet as Asuka steps through the curtains! Belair, as well as the rest of the American Airlines Center, are surprised by the arrival of 'The Empress of Tomorrow' as she saunters down to the ring. Standing across from Belair, Asuka holds a microphone of her own and smiles. "At WrestleMania you were ready for Becky Lynch!" She says with a nod. "But you... are not ready for Asuka." Belair smiles back and seems to welcome the challenge, going to speak into the microphone only to instead eat a spin kick to the side of the head! "So much for friendly competition, I'd say!" Graves says. Asuka proceeds to lean down and pick up the Raw Women's Championship belt, looking it up and down before placing it back at Belair's side, who looks up and gives a smirk. Asuka then leaves the ring with a wave, as it appears she plans on getting the first crack at the new champion.
An image is then shown of Veer Mahaan. An anticipated debut for the past couple of months, Mahaan finally arrives and debuts here on Monday Night Raw - next!
SINGLES MATCH: VEER MAHAAN DEF. DOMINIK MYSTERIO (W/REY MYSTERIO)
A valiant effort from Mysterio against the vicious debuting Mahaan is not enough as he is forced to submit via a Cervical Clutch at 1:35.
Post-match, Mahaan refuses to let go of the hold, leading to Rey jumping in and trying to force the big Indian man off of his son, but to no avail. Instead, Mahaan plasters Rey with a clothesline and places him in the Cervical Clutch as well, eventually throwing Rey on top of his son and standing over both of them, letting out a roar to the disapproving crowd. Mahaan has warned of his arrival for months now and has sent a message to the entire locker room in his debut.
The cameras pan over to the commentary team at ringside where they again speak of how massive this past weekend was with WrestleMania and the excitement has continued in to tonight and will continue this Friday on Smackdown when Ronda Rousey addresses her loss in controversial fashion to Charlotte Flair. Plus, more championship matches this week when Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns will defend his championship against the winner of tonight's main event coming up shortly.
In the back, Kevin Patrick is seen approaching the locker room of Roman Reigns when he is stopped in his tracks by Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos, questioning what he is doing. Patrick attempts to explain he just wanted a word with Reigns before the main event, but Jimmy shuts things down quick by saying 'The Tribal Chief' speaks when he wants to speak. "And he spoke earlier tonight already," Jey adds. "Now, he's going to sit back and find out who his next victim is gonna be for this Friday night!" The duo then enter Reigns' locker room, the number one contender to be determined in the main event - which is coming up next!
A series of images are shown highlighting WrestleMania over the weekend, culminating in the main event of night two where Roman Reigns defeated Brock Lesnar to unify the WWE and Universal Championships, thus becoming the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.
#1 CONTENDER'S MATCH: BOBBY LASHLEY DEF. DREW MCINTYRE
In a big-time rematch of last year's WrestleMania WWE Championship contest, the two powerful superstars have a lengthy, hard-hitting battle. Avoiding a Claymore Kick, Lashley ends up hitting his third Spear of the match and puts McIntyre down for the count at 15:11.
'The All Mighty' staggers back to his feet, having overcome one of his biggest rivals once again. "Bobby Lashley continues to be a thorn in the side of Drew McIntyre," Corey Graves. "And has just crushed his dreams of challenging Roman Reigns this Friday on Smackdown!" Unlike previous encounters, however, Lashley waits for McIntyre to get back to his feet before extending his hand. Drew is clearly frustrated at being defeated yet accepts the offer from Lashley. As McIntyre leaves the ring and Lashley goes to continue his celebration, he stands atop the second rope and looks to the top of the stage where out walks Roman Reigns. The Undisputed WWE Universal Champion gives a stare in Lashley's direction and raises both championship belts above his head - the Smackdown main event set as Raw concludes.
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dcw1
Main Eventer
Joined on: Apr 20, 2003 6:40:06 GMT -5
Posts: 3,710
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Post by dcw1 on Apr 13, 2022 6:06:31 GMT -5
Welcome to the FB board!
I enjoyed RAW thought you had some cool moments, particularly Asuka returning. I like the fact Lashley is staking his claim to the title that he never officially lost, Lashley/Roman should be good. Rhodes/Theory is a nice feud to start Rhodes’ return with. Yeah, good stuff overall. Will look forward to what you do on SD!
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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 14, 2022 4:41:39 GMT -5
APRIL 8, 2022 | FISERV FORUM | MILWAUKEE, WI
A recap video from WrestleMania this past weekend airs, the Smackdown opening video following. The cameras then come inside of The Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin as Michael Cole welcomes everyone to commentary alongside Pat McAfee. Tonight, the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship will be on the line as Roman Reigns will have his first defense against 'The All Mighty' Bobby Lashley! But right now, we're expecting to hear from 'The Baddest Woman on the Planet'...Marching out from the back to kick things off is Ronda Rousey, the 2022 Women's Royal Rumble winner demanding a microphone as she gives a sharp glare to the top of the stage. "The entire world saw it at WrestleMania," She says. I made Charlotte Flair tap out in the middle of this ring. But because the referee just happened to be temporarily taken out of commission - he never saw it." Rousey says she more than understands that the outcome is the outcome and Charlotte did manage to pin her, but not until after having already submitted. "So, I say we settle the score once and for all, Charlotte. And I don't think we should wait... I think we should settle things right here and right now in Milwaukee."
As the audience approves of the idea, Charlotte Flair's music hits and the Smackdown Women's Champion walks out with a smile. Stepping into the ring, Flair tells Rousey that this isn't the octagon or the UFC and that things are done a little differently around here. "You think just because your name is Ronda Rousey that you can just get a match for the championship! Nuh-uh!" Flair was her finger and says that the result at WrestleMania was exactly what it was and that's that. "You can say I tapped out all you want but maybe you're missing the bigger picture, Ronda: I was outsmarting you. I knew that Charles Robinson was down and out, and I knew that you would let go the second I started 'tapping out' and that's why I did! Not because of your armbar." Rousey responds by telling Flair she doesn't give a crap how she spins how things went down at WrestleMania, all she cares about is getting another rightful shot at the Smackdown Women's Champion. "Not because my name is Ronda Rousey, but because I deserve it and I know that I can make you tap out again." Rousey then tosses her microphone to the mat and removes her jacket, inviting Flair for the fight. Looking around the building and encouraging audience, Flair unstraps her championship belt from her waist - seeming prepared to accept the challenge only to instead throw the belt over her shoulder and step out of the ring. "And Charlotte Flair is backing down," Cole says. "Backing down from a WrestleMania rematch with 'The Baddest Woman on the Planet'!" Flair keeps her back turned as she continues toward the back, Rousey left shaking her head in disapproval from inside the ring while openly calling the champion a coward.At ringside, Cole and McAfee say that while it appears we won't have a Smackdown Women's Championship match tonight - we do have the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship up for grabs as Roman Reigns, fresh off the heels of beating Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania, will battle his new number one contender, Bobby Lashley. Coming up next, however, we will see a WrestleMania rematch as Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods look for revenge against Sheamus and Ridge Holland.
After the break, images from WrestleMania 38 this previous weekend are shown, focusing on Charlotte Flair's controversial victory over Ronda Rousey to retain the Smackdown Women's Championship.
TAG TEAM MATCH: SHEAMUS AND RIDGE HOLLAND (W/BUTCH) DEF. KOFI KINGSTON AND XAVIER WOODS
A much more competitive bout than this past weekend, the members of The New Day getting in much more offense than before yet involvement from Butch provides enough of a distraction for Sheamus to plaster Kingston with a Brogue Kick and put him down for the three count at 7:06.As soon as the match is over, Butch shoves Woods into the ring post on the outside, sliding under the ropes and mounting over Kingston with punches. "Somebody needs to control this wild man!" Cole says. Sheamus and Holland begin to go to intervene, but they instead decide to let Butch keep on going. Woods comes back into the ring and takes a clothesline from Holland, the three-on-two beat down continuing until Drew McIntyre's music ends up hitting! The Scottish superstar proceeds to rush his way down, ducking a shot from McIntyre and running right through Holland with a Claymore Kick! Butch dives on to the shoulders of McIntyre but Drew uses him as a weapon against Sheamus - then backing Butch into the corner. Kingston and Woods then get back to their feet and double clothesline Butch over the ropes and on to the floor next to his laid-out partners. "It looks like Kofi and Xavier got themselves some back out in the form of a six-foot five Scottish psychopath!" McAfee exclaims. McIntyre paces along the ropes and pats the backs of Kingston and Woods.
In the back, Sami Zayn is seen walking with a scowl across his face - barking at some of the backstage crew members and asking if they are laughing at him. Up next, he will be addressing his loss to Johnny Knoxville at WrestleMania.
The theme music of Sami Zayn hits to boos from the crowd as a rather unimpressed looking Zayn steps out from the back looking incredibly angry. Zayn jaws at the fans on his way down and into the ring, calling for a microphone. Pacing back and forth around the ring, Zayn says that he has been calling out all of the conspiracies in the WWE and this past Sunday at WrestleMania was no different. "Johnny Knoxville and I were supposed to be competing in that Anything Goes Match... by ourselves... it was not supposed to be Sami Zayn versus the entire Jackass crew! I didn't sign up for that!" He grows more frustrated as the crowd laughs, shouting for them to shut up - they encourage that kind of behavior and that is just as big of a problem as people like Knoxville and his friends. "I am a decorated WWE superstar! He is nothing but an unqualified stuntman! And all of his stupid friends are even worse than he is! From the dancing stripper to the fat little person - I'm done with it all! I'm done with hacks! I deserve better than this! I deserve to be in this ring with real competition!"
As Zayn looks to continue his complaints, he is interrupted by music that states the name: LA Knight. The crowd cheers for the arrival of the NXT 2.0 superstar out to the stage, strutting his way down to the ring as Zayn begins his pacing once again. Once Knight steps in and across from him, Sami draws closer and prepares to speak only to have the microphone ripped out of his hand. "Let me talk to ya!" Knight says to begin with as he smiles at Zayn. "You say you want some real competition, huh, Sami? You say you're done with the stuntmen, you're done with the hacks but you can't even get the job done beating them so what makes you think you can hang with real competition like LA Knight?" Zayn shakes his head in frustration as Knight says he means no disrespect to Johnny Knoxville or all his friends, but he definitely means disrespect to Zayn. "Yeah! You cry conspiracy theory over every single thing that doesn't go your way! Well, now you've got the newest addition to the Smackdown roster looking you square in the eyes, ready to drop you on your head, knowing you can't hang! And that's not disrespect, Sami, that's just a fact of life!" Zayn snatches the microphone back and, through uneasy laughter, he begins to say something along the lines of this being funny but stops his sentence to hit Knight in the head with the microphone! Strutting around the ring to boos, Zayn rips his jacket off and tosses it to the outside. He then charges at Knight getting up in the corner and attempts a Helluva Kick but Knight avoids the boot and instead catches Zayn with a Snapmare Driver! Zayn rolls out of the ring slowly in a heap, Knight back to his feet as his music hits and the crowd cheers - Smackdown's newest acquisition making an impact on his first night!
Backstage, Happy Corbin is seen walking in the back and not appearing as jovial as usual when he is approached by Madcap Moss, asking Corbin what the problem is. "What's the problem?! What's the problem?!" He shouts. "I lost at WrestleMania thanks to you!" Moss apologizes and says that he almost got killed by Drew McIntyre's sword. "At least you didn't almost die!" Moss says with a shrug and a grin, yet Corbin is still displeased. Moss says that he does have a surprise that might make Corbin feel a lot better. "I went to Adam Pearce for you earlier and, well, after I won the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal last week... he seemed to want to give me a match with Ricochet!" Corbin seems to be getting more frustrated but Moss puts his hands up and says that he told Pearce that he wanted Corbin to have that match with Ricochet. "And if... when you win, you'll get a shot at the Intercontinental Championship!" Corbin's frown slowly turns over to a grin, pointing at Moss and saying maybe he doubted him just a little bit. Moss claps his hands together and says they've got to get going because that match happens to be coming up in just a few minutes!
Seen standing in the back after a break is Lacey Evans. Absent over the past year, she speaks directly to the camera and re-introduces herself before bringing up her childhood, where her father dealt with mental health and addiction problems and she had to re-locate constantly with her mother and siblings and having to learn to not give up. She brings up her time in the United States Marine Corps and her own motherhood, saying that she is motivated and ready for anything. "That doesn't make me any better than any of these other superstars, but they damn sure ain't better than me."
NON-TITLE MATCH: INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION RICOCHET DEF. HAPPY CORBIN (W/MADCAP MOSS)
A seemingly over-confident Corbin is thwarted by Ricochet's speed and agility countless times. As Corbin goes for his signature slide out of the ring and wrap around the ring post, he ends up running right into Moss. An argument between the two leads to Ricochet springboarding himself off the top rope on to both men. He then tosses Corbin back in the ring, hits the 630 Senton for the pinfall at 6:18.
Ricochet pumps his fist once to his feet, being presented with his Intercontinental Championship. As he is exiting the ring, Corbin is joined by Moss in the ring, who tries to lighten the mood. Corbin, however, pushes Moss away and points a finger in the face of his personal jester. "This is your fault! All your fault!" Corbin pulls his arm away from Moss and storms out of the ring, Madcap appearing dejected over Corbin's anger toward him.
In the back, the Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos are seen leaving the locker room of Roman Reigns. While 'The Tribal Chief' will defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion later, his cousins will be addressing the WWE Universe themselves after the break.
Making their way out after the break are the Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos. Jimmy and Jey head to the ring, microphones in hand as the latter reminds everyone how they're 'the ones' and still the Smackdown Tag Team Champions. "Let's not forget about your tribal chief, Roman Reigns!" Jimmy adds to a loud, mixed response from the Milwaukee fans, mentioning he's going to whoop Bobby Lashley later tonight. The two then move on to talk about how while they retained their Smackdown Tag Team Championship on WrestleMania Saturday, they had something happen that they didn't intend on happening - that being the injury to one of their opponents, Rick Boogs. Jey explains that Boogs tried to hold both of them on his shoulders and his knee buckled, leading to him having to have surgery. "And we just wanted to come out here and give him well wishes! Hope he gets better and hope he comes back for more!" Jimmy then wags his finger and says that brings them to Boogs' tag team partner, Shinsuke Nakamura. "We gotta give credit where credit do! So, Shin, you put up a fight on your own for a bit there and we know you a tough one! So, we just wanna invite you out here, man to man, shake your hand 'cause this past weekend you earned our respect and that don't come easy!"
After a few moments of waiting, Shinsuke Nakamura's music does hit, and he arrives to the Fiserv Forum singing along to his theme song. Once in the ring, he takes a bow to the crowd, Jimmy and Jey taking turns in giving him his props for the fight he put up on his own. They then each offer their hand out, to which Nakamura accepts. "But there is one thing," Jey adds. "One thing that... that we just can't help!" He looks to Jimmy, who says that they can't just let one of them get injured, that's not fair to the partnership. "See, if Boogs is down and out because of us... you gotta be too." Nakamura looks away and smiles before throwing a forearm in to the face of Jimmy. "Nakamura has been threatened!" McAfee exclaims. "And he's coming at The Usos with the pre-emptive strike! Do it for Boogs, Shin!" Teeing off on the Tag Team Champions, Nakamura sets up for a Kinshasa on Jey but ends up being blindsided with a superkick from Jimmy. Boos ring out as they proceed to double team Nakamura, Jimmy holding the arms as Jey goes to the outside and takes the legs, proceeding to wrap Nakamura's knee around the ring post. The brothers mock the disapproving crowd as Jimmy drags Nakamura toward the center of the ring, taking a knee on one leg while holding out the other. Jey proceeds to go to the top rope and dives off with a splash on to the targeted knee! Nakamura yells out and writhers across the mat in a tremendous amount of pain, the Smackdown Tag Team Champions all fired up together as their music hits and they retrieve their belts - holding them over the downed and injured Nakamura.
Back from break, Samantha Irvin stands in the ring and introduces Ludwig Kaiser, the former Marcel Barthel. "Allow me to introduce to the man that is the epitome of efficiency and elegance!" After some words in German, he finally welcomes Gunther. The newest arrival to Smackdown, the powerhouse
SINGLES MATCH: GUNTHER (W/LUDWIG KAISER) DEF. JOE ALONZO
A dominant display by the 'Ring General' as Gunther overpowers Alonzo repeatedly with vicious boots and chops in the mix, showing no mercy on the local competitor. Finally, he ends up putting Alonzo out of his misery with a powerbomb at 2:05.
McAfee and Cole review some of the hard-hitting strikes from Gunther via replay, with Gunther standing at the forefront of the ring with his hands firm behind his back and Ludwig in the background.
Backstage, new WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks and Naomi are seen heading to the ring. They knocked off Liv Morgan and Rhea Ripley this past Monday on Raw and look to keep the momentum going against Natalya and Shayna Baszler - next.
Images from WrestleMania Sunday are shown, this time around highlighting Sasha Banks and Naomi winning their fatal four-way match to become the new Women's Tag Team Champions.
NON-TITLE MATCH: WWE WOMEN'S TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS SASHA BANKS AND NAOMI DEF. NATALYA AND SHAYNA BASZLER
In a competitive bout, Banks and Naomi are hot out the gates but Natalya and Baszler work to keep Naomi cut off. Upon a hot tag to Banks, however, the champions make a big comeback with Natalya dropkicked by Naomi into Baszler, knocking her from the apron and leaving Natalya to fall to the double team facebreaker of the champions, giving them the pinfall win at 5:22.
The official presents Banks and Naomi with their Women's Tag Team Championship titles, the two celebrating the win together as Baszler and Natalya pick each other up on the outside, upset over the defeat as the new champions continue their roll with their third victory of the week.
Standing in the back is Kayla Braxton as she welcomes the number one contender for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship, Raw's Bobby Lashley. She thanks him for the time and asks how he plans to knock Roman Reigns off tonight, noting that it has been over two years since Reigns has been pinned or submitted. "Kayla, if anyone can be the one to beat Roman Reigns... it's me." He explains that the WWE Championship is his because of what happened at Elimination Chamber where he was concussed and didn't get to rightfully defended it. "And that just makes me even more dangerous because I want to take back what is mine and then some and I'm gonna do it tonight against Roman Reigns." He pounds his fist into his palm and then walks off as the main event is just moments away.
Announced following the time away for Raw this Monday on USA is the fallout from tonight's Undisputed WWE Universal Championship match. Plus, Finn Balor will face Edge's new disciple Damian Priest, Asuka will have her in-ring return, and the re-united team of Seth Rollins and Kevin Owens will address their situation.
Images from WrestleMania this past weekend is then highlighted with Roman Reigns overcoming Brock Lesnar in the main event of night two, becoming the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.
UNDISPUTED WWE UNIVERSAL CHAMPIONSHIP: BOBBY LASHLEY DEF. ROMAN REIGNS(C) (W/PAUL HEYMAN) VIA DISQUALIFICATION
A physical contest between the two, things are very back and forth with Lashley surprising Reigns by knocking him off of his feet multiple times with displays of power. After survival of a Superman Punch and a Spear, Lashley ducks a second Superman Punch attempt and sinches on the Hurt Lock! Reigns struggles in the hold, The Usos eventually coming down and into the ring - Lashley releasing his grip on Reigns and turning straight in to a double superkick from the Smackdown Tag Team Champions, forcing the referee to call for the DQ at 10:13.
Jimmy and Jey stomp away at Lashley as the bell continues to ring, Reigns getting back to his feet and calling for his title belts from Heyman. "The Usos already took out Shinsuke Nakamura early tonight, it seems like they want to do the same with Roman Reigns tonight!" Cole says. Jimmy and Jey then hold Lashley up on his knees by his arms, Reigns running through with a shot to the face with the WWE Championship. Preparing to walk away, Reigns then holds the Universal Championship in the same position and orders The Usos to pull Lashley back up. Forcing 'The All Mighty' to his knees again, Reigns runs through him a second time with the second title. The boos are loud from the Milwaukee fans as Reigns then holds both of his titles in his hands, holding them over his head while standing above Lashley. "Not gonna lie, Cole," McAfee says. "I think 'The All Mighty' Bobby Lashley was pretty darn close to becoming the new champion before The Usos showed up!" The disqualification finish keeping Reigns as champion, he and the rest of The Bloodline stand tall together as the show goes off the air.
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Post by ICW on Apr 17, 2022 14:09:13 GMT -5
I'm definitely intrigued by this. On the one hand, I do not follow today's WWE product but, on the other hand, I'm curious to see how someone would book it.
RAW:
- I dug the opening segment between The Bloodline/Lashley/Drew, though I was hoping the two titles would actually be unified into a single World Championship. In fact, I’m a little confused: are they challenging just for the Universal Championship or both Championships/are both belts “unified”?
- I got a big kick out of immediately showing a replay of the first segment. Very WWE-esque.
- Dissension between Rhea and Liv? Say it ain’t so
- Interesting Edge promo
- I dug the Cody promo but not so much the interaction with Austin Theory, which left Cody laying. It did feel very WWE, though, so I can’t fault you there. Decent followup with McMahon afterward, too.
- Intrigued to see where you take Seth/KO. Decent Miz promo, too.
- Thought it was cool to see KO and Rollins make a name for themselves in the tag division. Looking forward to the follow up.
- Very much like you bringing back Asuka as Bianca’s first opponent
- Veer is here
- Solid main event between Lashley and Drew. I was glad to see Lashley come out on top and his match vs. Roman on Smackdown should be a banger.
Good stuff!
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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 17, 2022 16:35:23 GMT -5
APRIL 11, 2022 | LITTLE CAESARS ARENA | DETROIT, MI
The Monday Night Raw opening video airs with the cameras coming inside of the Little Caesars Arena from Detroit, Michigan as Jimmy Smith, Byron Saxton and WWE Hall of Famer Jerry 'The King' Lawler are on commentary, Lawler filling in for Corey Graves on his honeymoon with Carmella. Tonight, we hear from 'The All Mighty' Bobby Lashley after being cost his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship match against Roman Reigns last week on Smackdown. Also, MizTV with Austin Theory, Finn Balor versus Damian Priest, Seth Rollins and Kevin Owens will explain their actions from last week and Asuka returns to the ring.Coming out from the back and looking quite unhappy to start things this week is Bobby Lashley. Smith then brings up what happened this past Friday on Smackdown, replay footage showing Lashley putting Roman Reigns in the Hurt Lock only for The Usos to show up and cause a disqualification, leading to Reigns hitting Lashley with both of his titles and standing over 'The All Mighty'. Pacing back and forth in the ring, Lashley says that he isn't a damn bit happy right now. "Roman Reigns - I had you in a place you haven't been in a long-time last week on Smackdown... ready to tap out or pass out!" Lashley prepares to say more but is interrupted by the arrival of MVP. Lashley's long-time friend and manager makes his way down and into the ring, Lashley trying to tell MVP he's got this. MVP puts his hand out, however, and tells Lashley he understands. "But the thing is, Bobby, as much as you are 'The All Mighty' and as much faith as I have in you to whoop everyone that gets in your way: The Bloodline is three men and Paul Heyman. The Bloodline has the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion and the Smackdown Tag Team Champions! They're going to do whatever they gotta do to stop you. And they're gonna do whatever they gotta do to make sure you don't get another shot at Roman Reigns! But you know me, you know how MVP does business and I'll make sure you get the rematch that you deserve, Bobby. Trust me."
As the two shake hands with one another and seem to have a gameplan, the music of Omos hits. The seven foot-plus giant comes down to the squared circle and stands across from Lashley and MVP, microphone tight in his hand. "WrestleMania was a fluke," He says to Lashley. "And I can prove it! Nobody has been able to stop me! You can't stop me!" Lashley chuckles and MVP steps forward, asking Omos if that is some sort of a challenge. Omos says it damn sure is, Lashley then pulling back in front of MVP to tell Omos that he has no problem knocking his giant ass back down again. "I had Roman Reigns beat last week just like I beat you at WrestleMania. I don't know what makes you think you stand a chance." Lashley then throws his microphone down, Omos tossing his aside too before clubbing Lashley with a shot to the head. Bobby stumbles backwards but runs right back at Omos - diving into him with a clothesline that sends both of them over the top rope and to the floor below! Lashley then runs full steam at Omos but is side-stepped and launched shoulder first into the steel steps. MVP rushes to the outside to check on Lashley, Omos backing off with a laugh - saying he'll see Lashley later!
Still to come: New United States Champion The Miz hosts his show MizTV with Austin Theory, Seth Rollins and Kevin Owens address their re-uniting and Finn Balor takes on Damian Priest. Coming up next, however, Veer Mahaan has his second match on Raw - this time with the legendary Rey Mysterio!
Following the break, a replay from moments ago in Bobby Lashley and Omos' confrontation is shown with the announcement coming by order of Adam Pearce that the WrestleMania rematch between the two will take place later tonight.
SINGLES MATCH: VEER MAHAAN DEF. REY MYSTERIO (W/DOMINIK MYSTERIO)
After running through Rey's son Dominik last week, Veer has a tougher time with the older Mysterio. The quickness, high flying ability and veteran skills of Rey keep him in it, but Mahaan's power eventually proves to be to much, eventually forcing Rey in to submission with the Cervical Clutch at 4:34.Mahaan refuses to release the hold after the bell, Dominik coming into the ring to try and rip off the powerful new superstar. Mahaan releases Rey and Dominik throws a few shots to the face, bouncing off the ropes only to return to a big clothesline. Mahaan then applies the Cervical Clutch to Dominik and wrenches back on it. Rey tries to crawl over to help his son, but Veer breaks off to kick Rey in the face. Mahaan then re-applies the choke to Dominik, yelling out in refusal to release the hold despite the bell sounding and the referee trying to force him off. Multiple backstage officials come running down to the ring to try and put a stop to things, Mahaan eventually releasing and throwing Dominik's barely conscious body into the mat. The Detroit crowd boos Veer heavily, but he simply looks out with a wide-eyed stare, knowing that his presence has been felt.
SINGLES MATCH: ASUKA DEF. QUEEN ZELINA
In her first match since last summer, Asuka shows how dangerous she still is as she tears through Zelina sans a couple of hopeful moments. After a spin kick, the Asuka Lock is applied, and Zelina ends up tapping out at 3:30.
The celebration for Asuka doesn't last very long, however, as out comes the Raw Women's Champion Bianca Belair. After being confronted and attacked by 'The Empress of Tomorrow' last week, Belair enters the ring and stares Asuka down. Laying the Raw Women's Championship title in between them, Belair motions for Asuka to come at her for a fight. Asuka, however, just laughs in response and walks right past Belair on her way out of the ring. "Asuka seems to be picking and choosing her battles!" Smith says. Belair scoops her championship back up and places it over her shoulder, watching as Asuka saunters her way toward the back with a smile.
In the back headed toward the ring is Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins. After crashing last week's Raw Tag Team Championship match, the re-united tandem will address the WWE Universe and explain their actions - next!
"Burn it down!" echoes throughout the building following the break, Seth Rollins making his way out with huge laughter and a gigantic smile, donning one of his bright and flashy suits. Once in the ring, he tells the audience to settle down because he didn't come alone. "Allow me to introduce my best friend in the whole wide world: Kevin Owens!" Clapping for the arrival of his friend, Rollins even holds the ropes open for Owens as he comes down to the ring. After a big embrace between the two, Rollins brings up last week's Raw Tag Team Championship match. "And you're probably all wondering why Kev and myself interjected ourselves in that match, huh?" He lets out one of his long signature laughs, Owens then simply stating they did it because they can. "And because we wanted to make it very clear that there is no pairing in the WWE like Seth 'Freakin'' Rollins and Kevin 'Flipping' Owens! Yeah! 'Flipping'! You like that, Seth?! I like it! I like it a lot! And what else I like is the Raw Tag Team Championship that should be around our waists, over our shoulders and raised above our heads! Not The Street Profits! Not Alpha Academy! Definitely not RK-Bro! Us! Rollins and Owens!"
As Rollins goes to tack more on, the music of The Street Profits interrupts things, Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins coming down to the ring together and wagging their fingers at Owens and Rollins. "No, no, no, no, no!" Ford says. "No! See, it was bad enough that Alpha Academy hijacked their spot in our WrestleMania match for the Raw Tag Team Championship - but now you two wanna try and get involved? No! No!" Dawkins tries to calm Ford down, Owens pointing in their faces and saying that him and Rollins don't care, they do what they want. "And you know why we do what we want?" Rollins asks. "Because we can! And nobody can stop us!" The two teams begin to argue back and forth until a loud "Shoosh!" is heard, Alpha Academy arriving from the back with Gable - now live - giving a second "Shoosh!" to the four in the ring. "Clearly, the four of you are completely ignorant to the situation," He says to boos from the Detroit fans. "As are all of you miscreants! Every time I have come back here since graduating from Northern Michigan University, I have been reminded of how much worse you people have become in my absence!" Gable explains that his mind and in-ring capabilities and Otis' pure power make them the most dangerous tag team in all of the WWE. "And if it were not for someone like Gable Steveson hogging all the spotlight at WrestleMana, oh, believe me, we would be once again your Raw Tag Team Champions! Thank you!" As he and Otis enter the ring, Owens insists that Gable use his brain and leave right now.
As the three teams all begin to bicker with one another, RK-Bro's music hits and the Raw Tag Team Champions arrive to a warm welcome from the crowd. They proceed to head to the ring together, Orton shaking his head as he questions what is wrong with all of them. "If anything, you should all know by now that RK-Bro is willing to kick each and every one of your asses when given the chance!" Orton continues by saying that, as a matter of fact, he and Riddle went to Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville in the back earlier today and they discussed getting that very opportunity, but it comes with a caveat. "See, starting next week, we're going to give all of you a chance to get another shot at us." He explains that over the next three weeks, they're going to face the teams of The Street Profits, Alpha Academy and Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins and if any of them can win, they'll qualify for a Raw Tag Team Championship match at WrestleMania Backlash. He says that isn't all though, Riddle has more to add to that! "So, like, me and Randy were really hyped up about this idea, but we thought we should make it even better! Something we didn't know we had in common is that we like to get really high!" Riddle smiles as the others look around at one another, Riddle then getting elbowed in the arm by Orton. "Oh, yeah, so, at WrestleMania Backlash, whoever we have to face is going to do it in a Ladder Match!" The Detroit fans like that announcement while all the potential challenging teams all seem to have different reactions. Orton then suggests that maybe they should just stop all this talking and do something more constructive: Like fighting. He then drops his microphone and throws a shot at Gable that knocks him down, an all-out brawl breaking out between the four teams in the process!
Back from break, it is noted that during the time away, a fatal four way match between the four teams fighting a few minutes ago was made by Adam Pearce. Each team was told to select one member to compete, with those four chosen being Riddle, Owens, Ford and Gable.
FATAL FOUR WAY MATCH: RAW TAG TEAM CHAMPION RIDDLE (W/RAW TAG TEAM CHAMPION RANDY ORTON) DEF. KEVIN OWENS (W/SETH ROLLINS), MONTEZ FORD (W/ANGELO DAWKINS) AND CHAD GABLE (W/OTIS)
A long and chaotic contest, all the superstars on the outside are just as hectic as the ones on the inside. In the end, Gable is taken out via a Frog Splash from Ford, whom in turn is dropped with a Stunner by Owens, who ends up being hit with the RKO by Riddle, which gets the pinfall at 14:52.
Riddle gets to his feet as the winner as Orton joins him, the Raw Tag Team Champions at each other's side while holding up their titles together. The other three teams all separate together on the outside, each looking back in the ring, as they'll now fight over the next three weeks to earn their spot and opportunity at the belts come WrestleMania Backlash.
A recap is shown from two weeks ago of Reggie proposing to Dana Brooke and Akira Tozawa moments later proposing to Tamina, both accepting the offers. Back live, Reggie, Akira Tozawa and R-Truth are seen leaving a bachelor party together, all hyped up with R-Truth saying that was the best double bachelor party of all time. "Yeah, I wonder how Dana and Tamina's bachelorette party is going!" Reggie says, with R-Truth stopping them in their tracks. "Wait, what?!" He shouts. "You're telling me... Dana, Tamina and my 24/7 Championship are in the same room right now?!" Truth places his hands to his cheeks and lets out a scream, saying they've got to go stop this before it gets out of hand! He then runs off, Tozawa and a concerned looking Reggie running right behind him.
Backstage in the Little Caesars Arena, Kevin Patrick is standing by as he introduces his guest at this time to be Finn Balor. Patrick mentions Balor being cost his United States Championship last week after interference from Damian Priest, who he will face shortly, and says that not only has he had a rivalry with Priest for the past month, but now he has an alliance with WWE Hall of Famer Edge. "Damian Priest was already a dangerous person to begin with," Balor replies. "And now, like you said, he's got Edge behind him. But if there's anything I'm willing to do in this business - it's not back down regardless of the situation." Balor says the bottom line is that Priest cost him the United States Championship and it doesn't seem like things between them is over, so he's going out there tonight to try and put an end to it himself.
Seen in a dark room together is Edge and Damian Priest, the prior with a laugh as he mentions that Damian Priest, under his tutelage, did exactly what he would do last week. "Finn Balor barked up the wrong tree when he got involved with Damian Priest, therefore he had to be punished." Edge explains that Balor had to be punished just as AJ Styles did at WrestleMania, being put in his place and knowing where he belongs. "This is only the beginning of a new era and a new age. The mountain of omnipotence has only just begun to be climbed by Damian Priest and soon he will sit at the top along with me." Priest warns that Balor's judgement day is upon him - and that day is today. Priest and Balor go head-to-head against one another after the break.
SINGLES MATCH: DAMIAN PRIEST (W/EDGE) DEF. FINN BALOR
An incredibly competitive match up that lasts through a commercial break, Balor reverses a powerbomb attempt and stuns Priest with a dropkick in to the corner. He then heads to the top rope for Coup de Grace but Edge gets on the apron - prompting Balor to instead jump down and clothesline Edge to the floor below. Balor is then pulled up from behind by Priest and dropped back in the ring with the Razor's Edge, giving Priest the pinfall win at 12:17.
Priest gets back to his feet but doesn't get much chance to enjoy it as a furious Edge on the outside stomps over to the timekeeper's area, taking the steel chair from there and sliding it into the ring. He then retrieves a second one and gives Priest some directions, with Damian obliging and placing Balor's head on the chair slid in already. Edge then slaps the other one off the ring steps and enters the ring, pointing down at Balor and saying to never lay a hand on him ever again. Before a signature ConChairTo can be delivered, however, AJ Styles' music hits and 'The Phenomenal One' comes racing down to the ring - trading blows with Priest before pushing through and ducking a chair shot from Edge, instead nailing him with the Pele Kick. Styles gets back up to knee strikes in the corner from Priest, only for Balor to get back to his feet and smack a chair into the spine of the big man! Priest then tries to get away, but Balor makes sure to get one more chair shot in before Priest dives through the ropes and at Edge's side. As they back down from the ring, Balor and Styles lock eyes with one another before giving each other a 'Too sweet' to a big cheer from the Detroit audience. The pair then step to the ropes together and invite Edge and Priest back in the ring to no avail, as the odds have now been evened against the new alliance.
The ring is set up following the break for MizTV as the new United States Champion and host, The Miz, stands in the middle of the ring and welcomes everyone to 'the most must see talk show in WWE history'. He at first brags about being the new U.S. Champion and tells the crowd that it is okay to give him a standing ovation. Moving forward, he says that tonight, his guest is someone that quite possibly is under more pressure than anyone else in the WWE because they have the all-seeing eye watching every single move. "Ladies and gentlemen, this superstar reminds me a lot of a younger version of myself! He's got a long way to go to be The Miz, but he's well on his way! Please welcome Austin Theory!" The crowd boos for the arrival of Theory, selfies taken on his way down and into the ring. Sitting next to Miz, Theory is asked by Miz what it really is like to be the guy that Mr. McMahon has hitched his wagon to. "Y'know, Miz, you'd think it'd be difficult," He replies. "And it does have its challenges. But, I've learned more in the last five, six months than some superstars learn in their entire careers and I owe it all to Mr. McMahon. He has helped steer me in the right direction and make the best choices." Miz brings up last week, for example, when he came out and interrupted Cody Rhodes' triumphant return to Monday Night Raw. "You liked that, huh?" Theory replies. "See, I wasn't going to let Cody Rhodes come out here and take my time away. He can't just walk back in to the WWE after six years and steal Austin Theory's time!" The boos keep coming and Theory shrugs his shoulders, saying they know they love him.
Interrupting the show is Cody Rhodes' voice stating, "wrestling has more than one royal family..." and the crowd comes to their feet for the arrival of 'The American Nightmare'. Playing up to the crowd a bit, Miz cuts things off as Rhodes begins to enter the ring - questioning if he was invited to the show. "Rhetorical question, Cody, you were not. So, if you don't mind-" Rhodes cuts him off and says he does mind, actually. "Miz, I haven't been in here in six years and I've known you for... I don't know? Twice as long as that? And, man, oh man, you have not changed a bit, have you?" Miz tries to respond by mentioning all of the championship reigns he has had, but Rhodes says that isn't what he is talking about at all. "Everyone knows that you're a good in-ring competitor with a lot of accolades, but everyone also knows that you're a giant pr*ck." Rhodes then turns to Theory and says that he isn't so sure if it is a compliment for Miz to compare the two of them, honestly. "The truth of the matter, Miz, is that I have been working on bettering myself while I've been gone while you haven't changed at all. Last week, Austin Theory humbled me a little bit by giving me the type of welcome back gift you don't really want but maybe the one I needed. Maybe, just maybe, Austin, you've got the potential of someone like The Miz, but you should be shooting for much higher." Miz says that is enough degrading of him on his own show, recommending that Rhodes do what he did for the last six years and get lost. Theory then steps up and tells Rhodes that maybe he is right, actually. "Maybe I can do better. Maybe... maybe I misjudged you and maybe I was wrong to come out and do what I did last week." Rhodes nods in agreement, Theory looking to Miz and saying that it's also very possible that Rhodes has no idea what he is talking about or who he is talking to. Theory then goes to throw a punch at Rhodes but his arm is caught, Cody instead responding with shots of his own and a bionic elbow! He then hooks the arm and neck of Theory - turning to face Miz before nailing the Cross Rhodes! Cody then offers Miz to come at him but the United States Champion instead throws his title over his shoulder, backs up and exits the ring. Rhodes smiles as Miz walks away, Theory left holding his neck on the mat, Rhodes left to climb the turnbuckles and keep the fans going.
WOMEN'S TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP: SASHA BANKS AND NAOMI(C) DEF. LIV MORGAN AND RHEA RIPLEY
A last opportunity for Morgan and Ripley, the two seem to be on the same page as they keep things very even. Morgan, however, gets locked in the Bank Statement, Ripley simply watches from the apron and doesn't even bother to assist her partner and instead steps down. Morgan's pain is now doubled as Rhea walks out on her - leaving Liv to tap out at 7:03.
Ripley looks back from the outside, waiting for Banks and Naomi to leave the ring before re-entering. Ripley stands over Morgan, who pulls herself up by Ripley's legs. "Why did Rhea Ripley just let Liv suffer and tap out?!" Saxton questions. "What is going through her head?!" After patting Morgan on the head, Ripley hooks a hold of her partner and plants her in the middle of the ring with the Riptide! The boos come down as Ripley stands back up and looks around the arena with a sly grin. She then places a boot on Morgan's face and holds her fists in the air, soaking in the continued disapproval of the crowd.
Back from the break, 24/7 Champion Dana Brooke is seen having her shared bachelorette party with Tamina and many other women, Dana thanking everyone for being there and then thanking Tamina for putting their differences aside for tonight in order to celebrate before they get married. Tamina steps up to Brooke and tells her it's no problem, but to not expect any favors afterward. "What is that supposed to mean?!" Brooke questions, Tamina saying she's going to take the 24/7 Championship as soon as things are done here. Brooke dares her to do something now, leading to shoving back and forth between the two. Running in to the party is R-Truth, Akira Tozawa and Reggie - trying to break the two up. Truth shouts for everyone to stop, saying that this is supposed to be about love. "Just like my love of the 24/7 Championship!" He says that even he can put that aside to enjoy this time, pleading with Dana and Tamina to stop this until their weddings. "You know what? I've got a great idea!" He reaches into his pocket and pulls out a piece of paper that declares R-Truth an ordained minister. Truth then suggests that they don't wait much longer, that they have a double wedding next Monday with him officiating it. "C'mon y'all! What do you say?" After some murmuring from the group, Brooke and Tamina agree to things. Truth then says that's 'what's up' and declares they keep this party going!
At ringside, the commentary team speaks of how hectic things are, per usual, with the 24/7 Championship scene and now we've got a double wedding out of it. Smith then moves on to talk about this Friday on Smackdown, as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns will address his situation with Bobby Lashley and what he plans on next. Plus, Drew McIntyre faces Ridge Holland, LA Knight makes his Smackdown in-ring debut and Ronda Rousey will return to the ring as she will go one-on-one with Shotzi!
In the backstage area, Kevin Patrick is standing by, and he introduces his guests to be Bobby Lashley and MVP. Patrick brings up Lashley wanting his rematch with Roman Reigns but asks if that is too much of a distraction now that he has another rematch on his hands in just a few moments with Omos. "It's far from too much," Lashley replies. "Because I'm ready to run through every brick wall that stands in my way!" MVP tacks on that Lashley is 'The All Mighty' for a reason and that he deserves to still be here as the WWE Champion. "If it weren't for a concussion? Bobby Lashley would've mowed down the competition at Elimination Chamber! If it weren't for having to take time off, Bobby Lashley would've ripped back his WWE Championship at or before WrestleMania! If it weren't for The Usos last week on Smackdown, Bobby Lashley would've made Roman Reigns tap out or pass out and be here as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion!" MVP says that if Omos wants to try his hand at Lashley a second time tonight, he will just be an example to be made out of before Lashley gets his hands on Roman Reigns again. The two of them bump fists and walk off together as the main event is coming up next!
SINGLES MATCH: BOBBY LASHLEY (W/MVP) DEF. OMOS
In their WrestleMania rematch, Lashley works as hard as he can to knock him off of his feet right off the bat, but Omos seems ready for the fight. After Lashley kicks out of a chokebomb, Omos can't believe it. He goes for a corner splash but Lashley avoids it, bouncing off the ropes and returning with a Spear. Instead of going for the cover, however, he nails a second one before getting the pinfall at 5:39.
Lashley gets back to his feet and lets out a roar to the crowd, pacing back and forth. MVP gets on to the apron but stops as out to the stage walks Roman Reigns. The Undisputed WWE Universal Champion stares down at the ring with Paul Heyman at his side, raising both of his titles in the air. Words are exchanged from atop the ramp and the ring, MVP suddenly being yanked off the apron from behind by The Usos! The Detroit fans start to buzz as the Smackdown Tag Team Champions get into the ring and wait for Lashley to turn around before hitting him with a double superkick! "The Bloodline are once again targeting 'The All Mighty' Bobby Lashley!" Smith says. Reigns then gets into the ring and drops Lashley with a Spear. He is then presented with his title belts by Heyman once again and he holds them down in Lashley's face. "You don't deserve this! You don't deserve to share my ring with me! You aren't on my level, Bobby! Nobody is!" Reigns then gets back up and holds the titles above his head, The Bloodline standing tall together yet again as Raw comes to an end.
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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 20, 2022 0:25:40 GMT -5
APRIL 15, 2022 | DCU CENTER | WORCESTER, MA
The opening Smackdown video airs, the cameras then panning inside of the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts. The voice of Michael Cole at ringside welcomes everyone to the show alongside Pat McAfee as tonight we will hear from the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns. Plus, Drew McIntyre came to the aid of The New Day last week and will now step into the ring with Ridge Holland. But right now, we're kicking things off in 'rowdy' fashion as Ronda Rousey returns to action!SINGLES MATCH: RONDA ROUSEY DEF. SHOTZI
Returning to in-ring action and clearly not happy at all after everything with Charlotte Flair the last few weeks, Rousey shows no mercy on Shotzi, who gets limited offense in, eventually forcing the green-haired superstar to submit to an armbar at 2:25.
The bell sounds and Rousey releases the hold, Shotzi rolling under the bottom rope and clutching her elbow. Rousey then demands a microphone, calling out the Smackdown Women's Champion. "Charlotte, you ducked me and my challenge last week. Well, I'm gonna up the ante. You name the time and the place. Come on." She paces back and forth and continues to call for the champion. After minutes of waiting, Charlotte Flair's music hits and 'The Queen' steps out to the stage. Shaking her head toward the ring, Flair asks Rousey when she will just accept the facts. "Because clearly, Ronda, I am better than you and, just like your mixed martial arts career, you just can't accept the reality that you're just not on top anymore. So, maybe, you should consider doing yourself a favor and that near two-year break you took? Make it a permanent one, sweetheart." Rousey shakes her head from in the ring, Flair saying that she isn't going to name a time, or a place and she isn't going to accept Rousey's challenge. "Because quite simply, Ronda, you're not worth it! I've got better things to do and more women in the back to beat!" Flair then turns around and returns to the back, the crowd booing as Rousey is left once again denied.Walking backstage is the Intercontinental Champion Ricochet. Coming off a victory over Happy Corbin last week, he will now take on Corbin's partner-in-crime and Andre the Giant Battle Royal winner, Madcap Moss - next!
After the break, Lacey Evans is seen standing backstage as she discusses, much like last week, some of her personal life and having to grow up in the situations she did. "Unlike the rest of the female superstars, I am more than comfortable to be at the very bottom. Because I am forced to keep my head up and plow through whatever tries to stand in my way. Including any and all of them."
NON-TITLE MATCH: MADCAP MOSS (W/HAPPY CORBIN) DEF. INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION RICOCHET
Attempting to do what Corbin could not last week, Moss holds his own against 'The One and Only', but the lightning quick offense of Ricochet takes him off guard. Corbin gets on to the apron and starts to cheer Moss on, which seems to provide a distraction for his associate, only for Moss to avoid a leaping kick from Ricochet that takes Corbin out, allowing Moss to roll up the Intercontinental Champion for the pinfall victory at 5:31.Moss pops to his feet and pumps his fists in the air with a leap, Ricochet looking completely stunned by the victory. Also stunned is Corbin on the outside, Moss running to the outside and shoving Corbin in the chest joyfully. "I did it! I did it!" Moss shouts, Corbin giving a slight grin and a nod, but does not show the same enthusiasm as his personal jester.
Elsewhere in the back, Drew McIntyre is seen walking through the halls with his signature sword in his hands. He is then approached by The New Day, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods complimenting the sword to a chuckle from McIntyre. "So, last week, you helped us out with Sheamus, Ridge Holland and Butch," Kingston says. "And we appreciate that. Obviously, our brother Big E is down and out, so..." McIntyre looks between the two men and asks if they're trying to ask him something. "Kind of," Woods replies. "We were just thinking, y'know, unofficially, you could be our... Big D?" Laughter comes from inside of the arena, McIntyre saying he hasn't used that nickname in a while. "But I tell you boys what, I've got a match with Ridge Holland in a few minutes. If you want to join me at ringside, I'd be honored to be your honorary member of The New Day." Kingston and Woods are hyped about the suggestion, starting a 'New Day rocks' clap that McIntyre eventually joins in on by stomping his sword in to the ground in rhythm.
SINGLES MATCH: DREW MCINTYRE (W/THE NEW DAY) DEF. RIDGE HOLLAND (W/SHEAMUS AND BUTCH)
A hard-hitting, physical match, McIntyre and Holland are fairly even to begin with. After the four on the outside get into an argument, the referee gets involved and Holland looks to take advantage with a low blow. As he sets up for a powerbomb, however, McIntyre reverse it with a back body drop. Moving back into the corner, McIntyre then nails the Claymore Kick and pins Holland at 9:25.
McIntyre stands back up and has his arm raised as the winner only to be jumped on to from behind by Butch, Sheamus then charging in and throwing a boot to the stomach. Woods and Kingston get into the ring and join in on the battle but a Brogue Kick to Woods gives that side the upper hand. After Kingston is dispelled of by a toss shoulder first into the ring post by Butch, he and Holland hold McIntyre up by his hair and allow Sheamus to plow through with a Brogue Kick to Drew as well. With the boos raining down on them, Sheamus, Holland and Butch all stand tall together at the expense of The New Day and 'Big D'.
After the break, LA Knight's music hits and the Smackdown newcomer makes his way out looking very confident. Ready for his first match, he comes down to the ring where Drew Gulak awaits. As Knight goes to pose on the top rope, however, Sami Zayn's arrival interrupts things. Zayn saunters his way down to ringside, putting his hands up in Knight's direction after their confrontation last week. Zayn then takes a seat at the announce table, joining in on commentary for the match.
SINGLES MATCH: LA KNIGHT DEF. DREW GULAK
Gulak takes advantage of Zayn's presence at the start, but Knight ends up turning the tables in his favor really quick. Playing up to the crowd a bit, Knight drops Gulak with a big powerslam and has some words for Zayn at ringside. "This guy is a nobody," Zayn says. "Trying to be a somebody!" A Snapmare Driver ends up putting Gulak away for the pinfall at 2:53.
Knight gets to his feet and has his arm raised as the winner, Zayn sliding into the ring from behind and throwing a forearm to the back of the head. Knight drops to a knee but immediately pops back up and spins around, unable to get his hands on Zayn, however, as Sami books it from the ring and backs away with a smile. Knight urges him to come back but Zayn isn't having any of it, but clearly things between these two are just getting started.
Shifting backstage, Kayla Braxton is once again standing by as this time she introduces the Women's Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks and Naomi as her guests, bringing up that they requested this time. "That's right, Kayla," Sasha replies. "Because for the last two weeks that Naomi and myself have been the Women's Tag Team Champions we have been feeling damn good!" Naomi is in agreement as she says that she and Banks even went to Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville and they got permission to have a not-title open challenge tonight. "Any team that wants to try and prove they deserve a shot at the gold? Come on down and feel the glow!" The champions then head off as they are in action next.
Following the break, advertising for this Monday on Raw is given: Cody Rhodes returns to a Raw ring for the first time in six years when he takes on The Miz, RK-Bro face off against Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins in their first of three contender series match-ups, AJ Styles takes on Damian Priest and 'The All Mighty' Bobby Lashley has challenged one half of the Smackdown Tag Team Champions, Jey Uso, to a one-on-one match!
NON-TITLE MATCH: ALIYAH AND XIA LI DEF. WOMEN'S TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS SASHA BANKS AND NAOMI
Answering Banks and Naomi's challenge is the rookie superstars in Aliyah and Xia Li, seemingly outmatched throughout the match despite some flares of offense. A blind tag by Aliyah is made and Banks doesn't realize it, hitting Li with a backstabber that she looks to transition into a Bank Statement only to have Aliyah run up from behind and bring her in to a small package for the surprise three count at 4:33.
Everyone, including Aliyah and Li, is caught off guard by the result as the young team gathers together on the outside with looks of disbelief. Banks questions the official's count, which he confirms. "Aliyah and Xia Li just showed up tonight and beat the Women's Tag Team Champions!" McAfee exclaims. Naomi and Sasha are completely flabbergasted as Aliyah and Li have their arms raised in the aisle - clearly having put their names on the map in the women's tag team division with tonight's win!
In the back, the locker room of Roman Reigns is seen. The Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, along with the rest of The Bloodline, addresses the WWE Universe and 'The All Mighty' Bobby Lashley - next!
As anticipated, the music of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns hits following the final commercial break of the night, 'The Tribal Chief' arriving with Paul Heyman and the Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos. The four take their time coming to the ring, eventually standing dead center and letting the crowd reaction continue before Reigns tells Worcester to acknowledge him. "So, everybody wants to know, what is next for your 'Tribal Chief'. What is next for 'The Head of the Table'. The way I see it, I can do whatever I damn well please whether anybody likes it or not!" He puts emphasis on the fact that he is on 'God mode' and that nobody can stop him. "And there isn't a man alive that deserves to share my ring with me... but Bobby Lashley can't seem to get it through his head to back down because despite the fact that I left his ass laying again this past Monday on Raw, earlier today he demanded a rematch for my Undisputed WWE Universal Championship!" Jey Uso steps in and says not only did Lashley do that, but he challenged him to a match on Raw. Jimmy asks Jey if he is going to accept, to which Jey gives a loud 'hell yeah' in response. Jimmy then questions Reigns if he is going to accept, Reigns not responding quickly like his cousin had. "I will accept Bobby Lashley's challenge on one condition: He comes down to this ring and acknowledges me." The Worcester crowd boos the caveat, Reigns folding his hands in front of him and looking up to the stage in anticipation.
The Bloodline is left waiting briefly, but eventually out to the stage steps Bobby Lashley and MVP. The two march their way to the ring and stand across from the four, Reigns not moving at all as he asks Lashley what his decision is going to be. However, before Lashley can give a response, Heyman steps forward and says he just has one thing to say. "Mr. Lashley, I have seen first-hand what you are capable of. I'm man enough to even admit that you intimidate the likes of myself and the common everyday man. However, you do not intimidate the Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos and you most certainly do not intimidate the reigning, defending, Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, 'The Head of the Table' and my 'Tribal Chief', Roman Reigns!" Heyman says that with all due respect to Lashley for how good he is, he's not on the level. "See, Bobby, you've brought up your concussion at Elimination Chamber costing you the WWE Championship and that you deserve a fair battle with Roman Reigns. But what you fail to bring up in that same conversation is that if it weren't for Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman pulling the strings and getting involved in your match with Brock Lesnar... you never would have been WWE Champion to begin with." Heyman then points out that the reason he is saying all of this is because he thinks it'd be a damn shame if Lashley were to make the mistake of stepping into the ring with Reigns again and end up with much worse than a concussion. Lashley chuckles in response, stepping a bit closer to Heyman - causing him to back up. He then steps toward Reigns and they lock eyes with one another. "Maybe you've all forgotten that it was just last week on Smackdown that I was about to make you tap out or pass out, Roman." He says, getting a slight grin in response from Reigns, who replies that he's delusional if he thinks that was going to be the outcome. "I do think it was the outcome before your boys came in and jumped me," Lashley snaps back. "But that's the past now, isn't it? Because I know for damn sure I can finish you off given the chance. So, you want me to 'acknowledge you' in order to get my rematch?" Reigns nods and says it's that simple. Lashley looks back to MVP for a moment before looking back at Reigns. "Fine. I acknowledge you, Roman." The Bloodline are all smiles from ear-to-ear as Reigns asks if that was so hard and informing Lashley that he'll see him at WrestleMania Backlash. "But there's one more thing," Bobby adds. "I acknowledge me as the one to finally knock you off your throne... and when I do, I'm not going to walk around calling myself 'The Tribal Chief' or 'The Head of the Table', I'm just going to be Bobby Lashley: Undisputed WWE Universal Champion." Tossing his microphone off to the side, Lashley has some more words for Reigns, who has some of his own. MVP then intervenes to pull Lashley back, Reigns putting his hand out to stop The Usos from jumping in. The words continue between champion and challenger amidst things as Smackdown concludes. |
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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 23, 2022 21:24:48 GMT -5
APRIL 18, 2022 | KEYBANK CENTER | BUFFALO, NY
Following the opening video for Monday Night Raw, the voices of Jimmy Smith, Byron Saxton and, for the second week in a row filling in for Corey Graves, WWE Hall of Famer Jerry 'The King' Lawler. Tonight is a jam packed night, as in the main event we will see Bobby Lashley take on Jimmy Uso. Also, having his first match on Raw in six years, Cody Rhodes is in action against United States Champion The Miz. Also, AJ Styles takes on Damian Priest. Right now, however, we see if Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins will qualify for the Raw Tag Team Championship Ladder Match at WrestleMania Backlash as they take on the champions themselves, RK-Bro!NON-TITLE CONTENDERS SERIES MATCH: KEVIN OWENS AND SETH ROLLINS DEF. RAW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS RK-BRO
A lengthy and competitive match in the first of three "contenders series" match ups, the two teams go at it back and forth through a commercial break. Things pick up toward the end after Orton hits the RKO on Rollins only for him not to be the legal man and for Owens to toss Orton out of the ring. Reversing out of the RKO from Riddle afterward, Owens catches him with a Stunner and scores the pinfall at 16:19.
After having forced their way into the Raw Tag Team Championship situation, Owens and Rollins have now earned a spot in the Ladder Match at WrestleMania Backlash. While RK-Bro watches on from the outside, Owens and Rollins celebrate together and talk plenty of trash. Later tonight, Alpha Academy will take on The Street Profits separately as they will get their own cracks at RK-Bro over the next two weeks.
Seen walking backstage is the Raw Women's Champion Bianca Belair, looking full of confidence. She has her first match since WrestleMania when she takes on Nikki A.S.H. - next!
Following the break, United States Champion The Miz is standing by backstage to be interviewed by Kevin Patrick, whom asks Miz about having to face Cody Rhodes in his first match on Raw in six years tonight. "Allow me to make something very, very clear. I don't care if this is Cody Rhodes' first match back on Raw and I don't care if all of those people out there are jumping for joy like they have the last two weeks when he shows up. I'm The Miz, I'm the United States Champion and while Cody Rhodes ran from his issues, I continued building my Hall of Fame resume." Miz declares that it will be his honor to defeat Rhodes in his first match on Raw in six years later tonight and that it will be awesome.
NON-TITLE MATCH: RAW WOMEN'S CHAMPION BIANCA BELAIR DEF. NIKKI A.S.H.
A former Raw Women's Champion herself, Nikki makes it known not to take her too lightly but after missing a top rope crossbody, Belair completely takes over. Nikki eventually tries to take herself to the top rope again, but Belair stops her in the process, instead dragging A.S.H. off on to her shoulders and nailing the K.O.D. in the middle of the ring. The cover is then made, scoring the pinfall at 4:32.Presented with her Raw Women's Championship, Belair celebrates the victory but stops in the middle of it when Asuka's music hits. 'The Empress of Tomorrow' heads down to the ring and stands across from Belair just as the champion did to her last week after her match. Staring one another down, Belair once again pulls her title from off of her shoulder and places it in between her and Asuka. Looking down at the title and then back up at Belair, Asuka responds - unlike last week - with a nod. Belair then extends her hand and Asuka accepts it with the Buffalo crowd cheering on the agreement in the background.
After some conversation about that situation at ringside, Smith sends things backstage to Kevin Patrick once again. Patrick thanks them and welcomes his guest at this time to be 'The American Nightmare' Cody Rhodes. The fans from inside the KeyBank Center cheer loud for Rhodes as he steps forward, Patrick asking if he has any nerves ahead of his first match back on Raw in six years. "There are always nerves, Kevin," He replies. "Just as many nerves walking into WrestleMania a few weeks back in Dallas as there is tonight in Buffalo. But I live for those nerves, I live for those butterflies, and I live to walk through that curtain and hear those people." Another loud response from the fans and Cody can't help but smile, saying that he not only gets to have a match on Raw for the first time in six very long years but he gets to do it against The Miz. "And like I said last week when I came down to MizTV to Mike's face is that he hasn't changed a bit since I've been gone and if anything, Kevin, that only helps me tonight because that will make beating that unsufferable loudmouth that much sweeter..." Rhodes prepares to walk away but he is approached by Austin Theory, who takes a series of selfies with Rhodes. Cody doesn't look impressed as Austin apologizes and acts as if he didn't even see Rhodes there. "Oh, by the way, I didn't forget about last week. You think you can just interrupt my interview and then lay me out and just act like it didn't happen?" Rhodes scratches his head and tells Theory he isn't doing that. " As a matter of fact, you seem to act like what you did the night after WrestleMania when you interrupted me didn't happen. Look, Austin, I'll be more than glad to step into the ring with you and settle things between us once I'm done with The Miz, alright?" Rhodes then heads off, leaving Theory looking on as the match between Rhodes and The Miz is coming up next.
NON-TITLE MATCH: CODY RHODES DEF. UNITED STATES CHAMPION THE MIZ
A slow start to things turns quickly to Rhodes picking up momentum until he is knocked to the outside from the top rope by Miz, the match progressing through a commercial break. Things continue to be back and forth afterward, Miz looking to close things with the Skull Crushing Finale only for Rhodes to fight his way free and springboard off the ropes and nail Cody Cutter. Cody pushes back to his feet and fires up the crowd before dragging Miz back up and dropping him not one, but two Cross Rhodes for the three count at 12:45.
Rhodes staggers back to his feet and has his arm raised as the winner. "Cody Rhodes is back," Saxton says. "And he just beat the United States Champion!" Rhodes' celebration is stopped when sliding into the ring from behind is Austin Theory. Rhodes catches Theory coming toward him, however, and hits a hip toss across the ring before a clothesline over the ropes. Theory kicks the announce table in frustration and is hesitant to get back into the ring with Rhodes, who tries to motion him back in to no avail.
Seen in the locker room area backstage is Bobby Lashley working out with resistance bands when he is approached by MVP. "Well, Bobby, we've got you your title match at WrestleMania Backlash... you've got Jey Uso tonight... doesn't sound so good for The Bloodline." Lashley nods in agreement and says that he is going to send a big message with Jey Uso tonight. "If Roman Reigns didn't get the message before, he's going to get it tonight. Come WrestleMania Backlash, he's going to be the one acknowledging me." The two bump fists, the match between Lashley and Jey still to come in tonight's main event.
SINGLES MATCH: VEER MAHAAN DEF. JEFF BROOKS
Looking to continue his vicious, dominant streak, the local Brooks charges at Mahaan but is immediately picked up and slammed into the corner. Heavy strikes, big tosses and hard knock downs eventually lead to Mahaan placing Brooks in the Cervical Clutch, leading to the fast tap out at 1:04.
Much like his attacks on Rey and Dominik Mysterio the last couple of weeks, Mahaan lets up initially but goes right back to applying the Cervical Clutch on the Buffalo local. Referees and officials come down to the ring to try and pull Mahaan off, succeeding once before he locks it on again. Brooks continues to tap, eventually being released by Mahaan and clutching his throat while gasping for air. Mahaan lets out a big yell to the crowd and leaves the ring finally, marching his way to the back as medical attention is called for Brooks.
Back from break, a replay from earlier is shown from when Bianca Belair was confronted by Asuka with the Raw Women's Championship once again laid down between the two, an apparent match being agreed to when the two shook hands. Smith then says that it has been made official by WWE official Sonya Deville that at WrestleMania Backlash it will be Bianca Belair defending against Asuka.
In the parking lot, local Jeff Brooks is seen being wheeled into the parking lot on a stretcher and then loaded on to an ambulance. As the ambulance begins to drive away, the cameras fade back to show Veer Mahaan watching on from a distance. He is then slowly approached by Kevin Patrick, who nervously asks Mahaan why he continues to attack his opponents after the match is over. "Man will learn to fear Veer." He simply states, breathing heavily before walking away.
Backstage, meanwhile, Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville are seen talking with one another when into the room comes AJ Styles and Finn Balor. Pearce asks how they can help them, bringing up Styles having a match to get to with Damian Priest in just a few minutes. "Yeah, we know that" AJ replies. "But we've got a couple other issues." Balor says they want to partner up to take on Edge and Damian Priest. Pearce and Deville look toward each other, Deville saying it could be a good addition to WrestleMania Backlash. Pearce nods and says he thinks that can be arranged. "Thanks, but there's one other thing," Styles says to the officials' listening ears. "I want a one-on-one rematch against Edge next week." Pearce says these are a lot of demands and Balor steps forward. "I wouldn't call them demands. I'd call them the right thing to do to put those two in their place." Pearce nods and says he understands their frustrations - and he'll make it happen. Styles and Balor then 'too sweet' each other and leave the ring with Styles' match against Priest coming up next.
SINGLES MATCH: DAMIAN PRIEST (W/EDGE) DEF. AJ STYLES (W/FINN BALOR)
Battling it out with a tag team match at WrestleMania Backlash now set, Styles and Priest have a back and forth match up where Styles has to deal with Edge involvement that Balor struggles to offset. After a commercial break, Styles begins to get on a roll but as he goes for The Phenomenal Forearm, Edge grabs his leg and yanks him back down. Running around the ring, Balor drops Edge with a sling blade in response! Styles then goes for the Phenomenal Forearm but as he launches across the ring, Priest is able to hit a boot in mid-air and follow up with the Razor's Edge for the pinfall at 13:30.
The Buffalo crowd boos as Balor is dropped on the outside from behind by Edge, who tosses Balor into the ring to Priest. Boots are put to him, and Edge begins to direct some traffic. Priest then chucks Styles through the ropes and to the outside, pulling Balor back up and feeding him to Edge for a Spear! The booing continues as Edge and Priest stand over Balor's body - looking in the direction of a downed Styles on the outside while holding their arms up in unison.
After the break, the ring is set up for a wedding ceremony as R-Truth stands front and center to host the ceremony, Akira Tozawa and Reggie awaiting as the ring is filled with others as well. He gives a speech about how the world is nothing without love. "You get to know someone after a long-time and you know it's love when they're gone, and it hurts more than anything in the world! I know that feeling because that's how I feel about the 24/7 Championship! And that's how Akira Tozawa and Reggie feel about their brides to be!" After introducing the 24/7 Champion Dana Brooke and Tamina, Women's Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks and Naomi as maids of honor. Truth welcomes everyone, calling them 'beloved', 'honor' and other names that have nothing to do with the subject, prompting much confusion from the crowd in the ring. Truth begins to conduct things by saying they are here to unionize two couples, being corrected on Dana's name when he calls her 'Brooks' and corrected by Tamina when he says she'll soon be 'Mrs. Tozawa' as Tamina leans forward and says Tozawa will be taking her name. Truth calls it progressive and moves forward to say it's time for the vows.
Brooke speaks first, calling Reggie her 'knight in shining armor'. Reggie responds by saying that all they have been through has led them to this moment and only made their love stronger. Truth then turns things over to Tamina, continuing to fight through the noisy crowd trying to interrupt things. "What she said!" Tamina claims for her vows, Dana in absolute shock as Truth questions if she is allowed to do that. Tozawa at first seems in shock but smiles and simply tells her: "Same". Truth takes a tissue from out of his suit pocket and wipes at his eyes, saying that was something beautiful. He composes himself and says there is one last order of business before he makes these commitments official. "So, if anyone objects to these unions, speak now or forever shut your trap!" After a few moments, Tamina objects not once, but twice and ends up switching partners around to the point she ends up with Dana while Tozawa and Reggie end up together. "Y'all gonna get me fired - I don't even know if that's PG!" Truth shouts as the crowd has 'Yes!' chants ringing out. Tamina then eventually goes back over to Tozawa and things are the way they were originally, prompting Truth to once again ask if there are any objections. After there are no more, he declares them committed and they can 'get their smooching on'. Reggie points out that Truth forgot the rings and he says 'my bad' to some chuckles, allowing them to get the rings on before once again declaring they can be wed. As the two kiss, Reggie ends up pushing Brooke down to the mat as a referee slides in and counts the three - making Reggie the new 24/7 Champion! As he raises the title up, however, Tamina boots him in the face and pins him to become new champion! Tozawa then dives under her dress and rolls her up for the three to win the title himself! Truth yells this is inappropriate and then steps up behind Tozawa and backslides him to take the 24/7 Championship as well! Truth pops back up and gets on the microphone and tells them the afterparty is canceled! "This has got to be the best and worst wedding I've ever seen in WWE history!" Lawler says. He then runs out of the ring with the entire ceremony following him and chasing toward the back!
The cameras then pick up backstage to show Truth running through the halls when he runs right into The Street Profits, Angelo Dawkins almost spilling his red cup and telling Truth to watch where he's going. Truth apologizes and tries to explain what is going on - Montez Ford lowering his sunglasses and eyes widening as he sees the stampede coming down the hall. He then leaps on to a production trunk and lets out a scream - pointing in the direction of Truth. After the crowd makes it past the duo, Ford jumps back down with Dawkins and tells him he just didn't want to spill anything. The two then begin to walk off together as they are in action with their long running rivals, Alpha Academy, next.
TAG TEAM MATCH: ALPHA ACADEMY DEF. THE STREET PROFITS
Two teams very familiar with each other, it comes as no surprise how competitively back and forth things are. A launch over the ropes from Ford and a squash in the corner on both members of Street Profits by Otis, it's anyone's game until a blind tag is made by Gable to Otis, leading to him dumping Dawkins out of the ring from behind and leaving Ford to fall to a suplex/clothesline combination followed by an Otis splash for the one, two, three at 6:49.
Dawkins slides back under the ropes but Alpha Academy gets out on the other side. Gable is elated as he taps his temple and shooshes the crowd. Despite the loss for The Street Profits, they'll get their shot at some redemption by facing RK-Bro next week with Alpha Academy waiting in the wings the week after.
Following the commercial break, a preview for next week's Raw is given: AJ Styles will take on Edge in a WrestleMania rematch, RK-Bro will take on Alpha Academy in the second of their contender's series match ups and Cody Rhodes will be an invited guest to MizTV. Smith then mentions that before we an get to Raw next week, we have Smackdown on Fox this Friday. 'The Baddest Woman on the Planet' Ronda Rousey has tried to get Charlotte Flair to give her a rematch for the Smackdown Women's Championship and has now declared she will up the ante to try and get that match. Plus, Ricochet defends the Intercontinental Championship against Madcap Moss and The Bloodline will be live for the fallout of tonight's main event.
Seen inside of a dark room is Edge and Damian Priest, the prior sitting in a throne-esque chair as he laughs to himself, saying that AJ Styles will never learn, and he is beginning to question if Finn Balor ever will. "Lessons will continue to be taught until the end of time but it is only up to them to take the information and apply it to themselves." Priest says that a tag team match at WrestleMania Backlash will be another opportunity to drive it into the thick skulls of the ignorant, as will next week when AJ Styles gets his rematch with Edge. "We've gotten the pitbull out of you, AJ," Edge adds on. "But we haven't gotten the best. And you will never bring out the best until you follow my lead. I'll see you next week."
In their locker room backstage is the Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos when they are approached by Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns and Paul Heyman, 'The Tribal Chief' asking Jey if he is ready. "You represent this family and you represent me in that ring. Bobby Lashley believes what is mine is his and that we are not the ones. Tonight, you will prove him wrong..." Reigns brings up Lashley acknowledging him last week on Smackdown being more of a charade and that come WrestleMania Backlash that charade will become a reality. "But it begins tonight with 'Main Event' Jey Uso." He gives a nod and leaves the room, The Usos bumping fists and following him out as that match is coming up next.
SINGLES MATCH: BOBBY LASHLEY (W/MVP) DEF. SMACKDOWN TAG TEAM CHAMPION JEY USO (W/THE BLOODLINE) VIA DISQUALIFICATION
A hard-hitting, physical contest with not much involvement from the outside as Reigns and Heyman keep themselves seated while also holding Jimmy back aside from chirping with MVP. As the match progresses through a break, Lashley overcomes being knocked down and held down repeatedly and begins to display his power. After a big military press, he has some words for the rest of The Bloodline. Jey jumps over a Spear attempt and nails a superkick, going to the top rope but missing an Uso Splash. Lashley then gets back to his feet and ducks a second superkick attempt, instead latching on The Hurt Lock. As Jey seems to be on the verge of submission, Reigns notably gives a nod to Jimmy on the outside and the other half of the Smackdown Tag Team Champions comes in and superkicks Lashley for the disqualification at 12:27.
The crowd boos as Reigns hands over both of his titles to Heyman and enters the ring with his cousins. "We saw this exact same scenario on Smackdown a couple weeks ago when Lashley had Reigns himself on the verge of defeat!" Smith details. As The Usos hold Lashley's arms back and Reigns has some words right in his face, however, down from the back comes Cedric Alexander and Shelton Benjamin! The crowd cheers as they take the fight to Jimmy and Jey, MVP giving his supportive instruction from the outside. "Are we seeing yet another reformation of The Hurt Business?!" Saxton asks. As Reigns goes for a Superman Punch on Lashley, it is side-stepped, and a Spear is instead delivered! Heyman assists Reigns and The Usos from the ring as MVP steps in with a microphone in hand. "You boys talk a lot about family," He says. "And while these men may not be blood... they've been through thick and thin like family and they've had their differences... but they've got each other's backs... and there ain't no business like The Hurt Business." Lashley is then handed the microphone and steps to the ropes with a grin. "Bloodline... acknowledge us." He then tosses the mike in their direction, Reigns and the rest of the group looking absolutely furious as the re-formed Hurt Business raise each other's arms in unison as the show goes off the air.
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Post by ✖ AJ on Apr 30, 2022 6:27:59 GMT -5
APRIL 22, 2022 | MVP ARENA | BUFFALO, NY
The cameras come into the MVP Arena from Buffalo, New York with Michael Cole and Pat McAfee giving the welcome to the show from commentary. Tonight, Ronda Rousey has vowed to up the ante to Charlotte Flair in an attempt to get her Smackdown Women's Championship rematch. Plus, the Intercontinental Championship is on the line as Ricochet defends against the man that defeated him last week, Madcap Moss. Also, Drew McIntyre will take on Sheamus but right now, we are going to be joined by the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion, The Smackdown Tag Team Champions and their special counsel...
Arriving to kick things off this week is The Bloodline, the Buffalo fans giving mostly boos in the direction of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, Smackdown Tag Team Champions The Usos and special counsel Paul Heyman as they make their to the ring. Reigns is silent as he stands front and center, patting a microphone in his hand as he prepares to speak. "Buffalo, New York... acknowledge me." He says to a loud and mixed response. "Acknowledge me just as Bobby Lashley will at WrestleMania Backlash... even if he brings The Hurt Business with him." Reigns scoffs and says that this past Monday on Raw, Lashley and MVP brought their gang back together and had the audacity to say that they're 'like family' but they clearly don't know the first thing about it. "Your boys don't respect you, Bobby. They never have and they've proven it. They're just latching a hold of you for your fifteen minutes of fame because you won the golden ticket. Because you got a chance to join me in the main event of WrestleMania Backlash! Because you get to share the stage with 'The Tribal Chief!' Because you get to step in between these ropes with 'The Head of the Table'! Because you get to be the co-star of a premium live event with the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion!"
Reigns hands the microphone off to Heyman, who steps forward and says that obviously his 'Tribal Chief' is not very impressed. "As a matter of fact, none of us are, quite frankly. Mr. Montel Vontavious Porter's words this past Monday on Raw were insulting. What you have on your hands is nothing like family. But it is very clear that you want to bring a fight to The Bloodline and if it's a fight you want, it's a fight you'll get." Jey takes the microphone and says that they are blood and this is the line and they have crossed it. "So let's do this thing next week on Smackdown!" Jimmy adds. "Six man tag team action! Lashley, Cedric and Shelton, do y'all thing, act like you tight when we know y'all gonna stab each other in the back again! Because we'll be here and we'll be waiting and we'll be a solidified unit and we'll still be family and we'll still be the ones!" The group then raise their index fingers in the air as the challenge has been laid down for next Friday night.
Seen strutting in the back is one of Smackdown's newest members in LA Knight. Coming off of his first victory on the blue brand last week, he looks to keep things rolling against Angel of Los Lotharios - next!
SINGLES MATCH: LA KNIGHT DEF. ANGEL (W/HUMBERTO)
Assists from Humberto throughout the match keep Angel competitive, actually almost knocking Knight off after a blindside superkick. After Humberto is knocked off the apron with a hard shot from Knight, a kick to the stomach is nailed by Angel. A springboard moonsault attempt is avoided, however, Knight pulling the stunned Angel up just to put him away with the Snapmare Driver for the pinfall at 3:45.
Knight gets to his feet in order to celebrate but stops himself upon hearing the music of Sami Zayn. A thorn in his side over the weeks, Knight steps to the ropes and holds them open for Zayn as soon as he steps out to the stage. Not interested, however, Sami instead speaks to Knight. "Listen, LA Knight, if that is your real name - and I know it is not - you came to Smackdown and picked the wrong fight, alright?! Picking a fight with Sami Zayn was the biggest mistake you could make!" Knight continues to gesture Zayn to the ring, clearly not afraid of having a physical fight. "And that is why I am going to... write a strongly worded letter." The crowd boos the concept of Zayn, who tells them all that he does not expect them to understand the power of a well-written letter, nor could they probably read it. "Then again, I don't know if LA Knight could read it either. Just like I don't know if he could see this coming." Knight is then jumped from behind by both Angel and Humberto, Los Lotharios then dropping Knight to the mat and hitting him with their signature Cerro De La Silla! Zayn applauds from atop the stage as Angel and Humberto stand tall over Knight, taunting him further by placing a rose on his downed body.
Kayla Braxton stands in the back and introduces her guests at this time to be Aliyah and Xia Li. The two step up and Braxton mentions them teaming up together against the Women's Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks and Naomi and surprising everyone when they won. "Even we were surprised," Aliyah says. "But not as much as everyone else. Because Xia and I have been talking about this team for a few months now and we got the opportunity... and we took it!" Xia then simply adds they want to become the new Women's Tag Team Champions. They then head off, Li in singles action with Naomi next.
A contest mostly controlled by Naomi, she is surprised when Xia combats with some big strikes, kicks and a few different suplex variations. After Naomi misses on a Rear View, she is completely blindsided by a spinning wheel kick to the back of the head that lands perfectly, leading to Li covering for the three count at 4:02.
Banks is in shock at yet another loss to the young superstars, Aliyah coming into the ring all excited as she raises Li's arm in victory along with the official. "Aliyah and Xia Li have once again stunned the Women's Tag Team Champions!" Cole says. Another crack at the tag team titles may be on the horizon for Xia and Aliyah, Naomi coming to as she and Banks continue to be in disbelief.
In the back, Sheamus, Ridge Holland and Butch are seen together with Sheamus and Holland holding Butch by his neck and telling him to save his energy for when it's necessary. "I'm going to snap Drew McIntyre's fingers one by one!" He shouts with Sheamus urging him to relax. "Butchy, fella, you can go ahead and break every one of Drew's fingers... after I'm done booting his head off his shoulders with the Brogue Kick tonight." Holland suggests not only Drew's fingers, but Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods' as well. "You like the sound of that?" Ridge asks, to which Butch gives a shot to both men and storms off ahead of them. Sheamus and Holland are all smiles about their fired-up pal as Sheamus heads in to battle with McIntyre after the break.
SINGLES MATCH: DREW MCINTYRE (W/THE NEW DAY) DEF. SHEAMUS (W/RIDGE HOLLAND AND BUTCH)
Two men with some history and both with a smash mouth style, the contest is very physical and lasts through a commercial break. After McIntyre mounts a comeback, he ends up delivering a hard headbutt to Sheamus. Holland and Butch try to get involved but The New Day come from behind and yank them from the apron. Sheamus tries to nail the Brogue Kick off the brief distraction but McIntyre avoids it. Sheamus gets caught in the top rope due to the miss and after he pulls out, turns right in to the Claymore Kick. McIntyre then hooks both legs for the three count at 11:30.
Butch slides into the ring and dives right on to McIntyre after the bell rings, pummeling him with punches and pulling at his face. Woods and Kingston come in and break things up, Holland dragging Butch under the bottom rope to get away from the fight. Sheamus crawls at their feet as McIntyre and New Day are fired up in the ring, Drew being held back by Woods and Kingston as he is all smiles inviting the 'Fight Night' crew back to the ring to no avail.
Back from the break, Lacey Evans is once again seen as she continues telling her life story of living with an addict father and an absent mother through her formulative years. She explains how she taught herself to do many things and learned how to get things done despite adversity and that if you want something done right to do it yourself. After discussing becoming an amateur wrestler and working to get better out of life. "What I've been through has created the woman I am today." Explaining she is motivated and is now a mother, wife, sister, daughter, United States Marine and WWE superstar. "Now, I'm no better than the other superstars - but they damn sure ain't better than me."
At ringside, Michael Cole and Pat McAfee express their excitement to see Lacey Evans return to the WWE ring very soon and McAfee warns the entire women's division they are dealing with one tough woman. The two then proceed to discuss what is coming this Monday on Raw on USA: Edge will face AJ Styles in a WrestleMania rematch, Cody Rhodes will be an invited guest on to MizTV, RK-Bro will take on The Street Profits and the re-united Hurt Business will answer The Bloodline's challenge!
In the back, Gunther and Ludwig Kaiser are seen walking together. Gunther has left his mark literally and figuratively since debuting on Smackdown and will be in action once again - next.
SINGLES MATCH: GUNTHER (W/LUDWIG KAISER) DEF. TEDDY GOODZ
As he did in his debut match two weeks ago, Gunther completely dominates, showcasing his power and hard striking. Goodz ends up being tossed all the way across the ring and then put down with a hard powerbomb that leads to the pinfall at 1:51.
Gunther gets back to his feet slowly and stands over the body of Goodz. Kaiser ends up joining him in the ring in the background as both men fold their hands behind their backs, looking out to the arena as Gunther has yet again displayed total dominance.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton stands by as she introduces Madcap Moss to be her guest at this time. She asks him about getting a shot at the Intercontinental Championship tonight and if he believes he can beat Ricochet for the second week in a row with much more on the line. "Of course, Kayla! Hey, I even have a joke for you!" Moss replies. "What do you call someone that will lose their title as fast as they move around the ring? Ricochet!" He laughs at his own joke but to nothing from Braxton or the crowd in the background. On to the scene then comes Happy Corbin, shaking his head as he tells Moss that was possibly the worst joke he has ever told. "You know what's a joke, Madcap? You receiving a shot at the Intercontinental Championship and not me!" Moss explains that Corbin had his chance against Ricochet a couple of weeks ago. Corbin doesn't like that response and tells Moss he has one simple order for him: "If you win the Intercontinental Championship tonight... you hand it over to me. Got it?" Corbin stares Moss down and then walks away, Moss seeming torn as his title match is coming up next.
INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP: RICOCHET(C) DEF. MADCAP MOSS (W/HAPPY CORBIN)
Ricochet flies all around the ring and knocks Moss off of his feet multiple times. A big back body drop from Moss turns things in to his favor, but after a powerslam seems to have him in position to win, Corbin gets on to the apron with the Intercontinental Championship and raises it up - distracting his personal jester. The two then begin to get into an argument about Moss winning the title for Corbin, which allows Ricochet to dropkick Moss right into Corbin. After the Recoil facebreaker, Ricochet heads to the top rope and nails the 630 senton for the pinfall at 6:45.
The official retrieves the Intercontinental Championship and presents it over to Ricochet, who celebrates atop the turnbuckles as he remains the champion. Corbin, meanwhile, pulls Moss to the outside and yells in his face. "Happy Corbin really though Madcap Moss was going to win him the Intercontinental Championship!" Cole says in disbelief. "And now he's mad because he didn't!" Corbin then throws a smack across Moss' face and storms off, leaving Moss looking even more dejected.
The cameras then pick up backstage to show Ronda Rousey marching down the halls. She has promised to up the ante on her challenge to Charlotte Flair in regard to a rematch for the Smackdown Women's Championship and we will find out what she exactly means after the commercial break!
As anticipated following the time away, Ronda Rousey makes her way out to a big ovation from the Buffalo fans. 'The Baddest Woman on the Planet' steps into the ring and calls for a microphone, letting the audience's noise die down before speaking. "Charlotte Flair has been ducking me ever since WrestleMania. Everyone saw it, Charlotte, you tapped out. You just happened to be lucky enough that the referee didn't see it." She shrugs her shoulders and suggested that they have their rematch on the Smackdown after WrestleMania and settle things once and for all, but Flair didn't seem to want to do that. Then, last week, she gave the offer for Flair to name the time and place - but she didn't want that either. "Well, Charlotte, I'm upping the ante just enough that maybe you'll take me up on it. Not only will I let you name the time and place... I'm going to let you name the stipulation. Whatever you want as long as it's for the Smackdown Women's Championship."
After waiting a few moments, Charlotte Flair's music hits and the Smackdown Women's Champion slowly steps out from the back. Taking her time coming to the ring, Flair smiles at Rousey and says that she did promise to up the ante. "And I'll admit, you did. But did you up it enough?" Flair paces back and forth a little bit and taps her hand with the microphone. "Because, just thinking about it, if I can name whatever stipulation I wanted, whatever time and place I wanted... I could go right here tonight! I could go right here tonight and I could have both your hands tied behind your back, couldn't I?" Flair laughs and Rousey shrugs her shoulders, saying she could do that and she'd still end up losing. Flair's laugh stops and the champion steps closer to Rousey. "You think I'm just going to take the easy way out against you, Ronda? You think that's the kind of champion I am? No, no, no. If I'm going to face you again despite the fact you don't deserve it... I'm going to put you down for good! I'm going to beat you to the point that you never show your face again in my ring!" Flair looks Rousey up and down and says it may come as a surprise to Ronda, but she is going to accept her challenge. "The time and place? Two weeks at WrestleMania Backlash. The stipulation? Easy, Ronda. I'm going to beat you so bad that you can't even get back on your own feet. So, the stipulation will be Last Woman Standing!" Rousey does look a bit surprised and even tells Flair that. "I didn't think you'd have the guts. But you do. What you don't have though, Charlotte... is any chance of walking out of WrestleMania Backlash still the Smackdown Women's Champion!" Flair prepares to respond but instead drops her microphone - kicking Rousey in the stomach! A series of strikes and chops, Flair is then met with a hard kick to the ribs and is backed into the corner. The Piper's Pit is delivered, Rousey then going for her signature armbar only for Flair to fight it off and roll over. Rousey rolls back to her feet and picks the leg - instead applying the Ankle Lock! Flair hollers out in pain as she crawls across the ring, eventually dragging her body under the bottom rope and to the floor below. Rousey smiles as Flair crawls up against the barricade, Ronda picking her microphone back up and leaning across the ropes. "That was just a preview, Charlotte. Because I'm going to snap all of your limbs come WrestleMania Backlash and there is no way you'll ever be the last woman standing!" She smiles and plays up to the crowd, Flair looking worrisome on the outside as Cole suggests on commentary that Flair may be regretting her decision to accept Rousey's offer already! With Rousey high fiving some members of the crowd on her way toward the back, Smackdown concludes. |
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