WWE 2009-2014: Raw 10/6 (IC Title: AJ Styles vs Cody Rhodes)

- After Bray Wyatt's King of the Ring victory last night, it has already been dispelled that he will go under any changes to his gimmick, such as featuring him as a 'King'. The WWE has wanted to portray him as a 'Mad King' if anything and be without a crown, scepter or robe. The simple purpose for him winning the tournament was to set up him versus Bryan Danielson for the Undisputed WWE Championship at the biggest pay-per-view of the summer, Summerslam.

- Speaking of Bryan Danielson, it has been announced on WWE.com that Danielson will be presented the new-look WWE Championship belt. The new WWE logo has presented the change and WWE will take the opportunity to display it tonight on Raw, as General Manager Eric Bischoff will present it to the current champion. All other titles will also feature their small changes with the new logo, but will not be presented in the same fashion as the new WWE Championship.

- WrestleMania 31 and Royal Rumble plans for 2015 are not finalized yet, according to sources. While there are some heavy favorites for the Rumble, there are many ways the company believes they can go in to the main event of WrestleMania. The winner of the Rumble, of course, could shuffle multiple matches up in the process. The WWE apparently wants to get their plans finalized in to Summerslam to avoid crossing those feuds over too early before then.

- The 'Rise' promos that have been seen on Raw over the past few weeks are expected to get more detailed soon. Speculation has been either Undertaker or Sting, whom haven't been seen since the night after WrestleMania XXX. With it being apparently clear that the two will do battle at WrestleMania 31, there hasn't been much to it after their big, exciting ending to that Raw.

- Matt and Jeff Hardy have officially left the WWE. The duo has confirmed that this was a mutual agreement, as the two felt that their run together was quite possibly their last in the WWE and while they enjoyed it, they felt they did their job after dropping the titles over to Sami Zayn and Solomon Crowe of the rising stable, The Purge, at Payback in June.

JULY 21, 2014 FROM THE AMERICAN AIRLINES ARENA IN MIAMI, FLORIDA

---

Still images from Battleground: King of the Ring are shown from last night, including Bray Wyatt winning the King of the Ring tournament, defeating Randy Orton in the finals, and Bryan Danielson retaining the Undisputed WWE Championship after Roman Reigns and Antonio Cesaro turned on one another. The Monday Night Raw intro video follows and the cameras come in to the American Airlines Arena in Miami, Florida! Michael Cole, Jerry 'The King' Lawler and John Bradshaw Layfield welcome everyone to the show as we are now on the road to the biggest party of the summer, Summerslam! Tonight is a special night as with the debut of a new WWE logo comes new title belts and the Undisputed WWE Champion Bryan Danielson will have the brand new WWE Championship presented to him by General Manager Eric Bischoff! Plus, we will have a rematch from last night as Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn and Solomon Crowe - The Purge - will take on CM Punk, Alberto Del Rio and Chris Jericho in a six man tag team match!

In the ring stands Paul Heyman to open the show, Justin Roberts introducing him to some very strong boos from the WWE Universe. "Ladies and gentlemen... my name is Paul Heyman. You could call me the greatest manager in the history of this industry, as well as one of the best minds in the history of this industry." He gets met with even stronger boos for praising himself and he pats the microphone in the palm of his hand. "Recently I've had two of my clients getting at each other's necks. While I have tried to keep the peace, things came to a head last night and now... Bryan Danielson is still your champion." A big 'Yes!' chant breaks out and Heyman rolls his eyes, mocking it even. He says that last night it should have been his night! He says he had two clients in that fatal four way match and one of them should have walked out the winner but that didn't happen because things fell apart at the seams. He takes a deep breath, calming himself down a bit. "With that being said, as the manager of my clients I am also the one who does the paperwork for them. So I've set a match up for a few weeks down the road at Summerslam for my clients..." The crowd cheers for the idea, as Cole clarifies that it appears we will get Roman Reigns versus Antonio Cesaro finally at Summerslam! As Heyman prepares to say more, Reigns' music hits to a loud, mixed reaction. He proceeds to make his way through the curtains and down the ramp. He gets in the ring with a microphone of his own, staring at Heyman with a straight look across his face, running his hand through his hair.

"You know, Paul, I'm glad you've finally seen the light. The thing is, Antonio and I... we will never, ever get along." He shrugs his shoulders and says that is just the way it is. "So I think we are making the best decision possible to set up a match between the two 'Paul Heyman Guys' at Summerslam, because now we can get through this the way we know how and then maybe we can move on and get past this little rivalry of ours." Heyman says that sounds fantastic to him, but it would be so much better if one of them were champion here tonight, but that isn't the case. Heyman takes a few steps in a circle, looking down at the mat. As silence fills the ring, he wipes away at his forehead and gulps a little bit, clearing his throat. "Roman... I brought you in to this company fifteen months ago. I showed you the way, you were promising. You took out John Cena, you beat him one, two, three in the middle of this ring then you went on and on and you kept looking like the 'New Next Big Thing'! You may not have become a champion but damn it, Roman, you came close... then you took on CM Punk and although you didn't manage to beat him at WrestleMania... I still believed in you. Then when I brought Antonio in to the fold..." Heyman seems to get a bit choked up and Reigns pats him on the back, telling him it is alright. "I brought Antonio in to the field and I thought things couldn't get any better, especially after he became champion... but when you accidentally cost him the title at Money in the Bank, I had to question myself... was I biting off more than I could chew?" Reigns tells him he didn't and not to worry about it, because at Summerslam he is going to take care of his problems with Antonio. Heyman stops himself and looks right up in to the eyes of Reigns. "No, Roman. Your problems aren't with Antonio... your problems are with me." The crowd gets curious over the words, Roman saying that is completely ridiculous, he has no problem with Paul! Heyman nods and says that he thinks that he favors Antonio over him, so he started ruining things! "You started to cost Antonio his matches and then you even cost him the Undisputed WWE Championship and then you betrayed my trust, Roman... I asked you if you trusted me going in to last night's match and if you would trust me enough to stay on the same page but you betrayed me! And your opponent at Summerslam is against my client... but his name isn't Antonio Cesaro, Roman... his name is BRRRRRRRROCK! LESSSSSSSSSSNAR!" Heyman points up the ramp as Lesnar's music hits, the American Airlines Arena exploding as the 'Beast Incarnate' comes out!

Reigns is in complete disbelief, as is the entire building, as he looks to Heyman with his eyes widened. "Are you kidding me, Paul?" He questions, looking back up to Lesnar as he starts to march his way down the ramp! As he gets close to the ring, however, Reigns comes storming across it and launches himself over the ropes and in to Brock! The building goes wild as Reigns gets on to his feet, breathing heavily over Lesnar. He slides back in to the ring and steps right up to Heyman, backing him in to the corner and grabbing him by the collar! "I betrayed you!?" He questions, shaking his head - still in disbelief. He lets go of Heyman and backs up a bit, Brock getting up right behind him and hooking the waist - planting him with a German Suplex! Lesnar snaps back on to his feet and hooks Reigns' waist again as he gets up, hitting a second German Suplex! He stands up over him and stares down, getting a slow nod of approval from Heyman. Brock snickers and rolls out of the ring, bringing Reigns along with him by the hair. As Roman tries to fight back, Lesnar hooks the head to his side and delivers multiple knees lifts to the gut before pulling him on to his shoulders, hitting an F5 in to the steel post! Lesnar lets out a primal scream as Reigns groans in pain, the 'Beast Incarnate' marching back and forth as the building keeps on rocking. Brock slaps his hands across the announce table repeatedly before removing the covering, also taking out the monitors. He keeps one of them in his hand, however, looking down at it with a sick grin. "Come on, Brock, that's enough!" Screams Cole from commentary. "That's enough Brock! That's enou-" Lesnar clocks Reigns in the forehead, dropping him to the floor again, the commentary once again going silent in shock. Lesnar drops the monitor down to the floor, cranking his neck. He lifts Reigns back up once again as he can barely even stay on his feet. Brock laughs at it and hoists Reigns on to his shoulders once again, dropping him with a second F5 right through the announce table! Lesnar pops right back on to his feet, looking all around at the wreckage as Heyman steps up next to him, patting him on the chest. He simply shakes his head at Reigns as he and Lesnar walk away slowly, the arena absolutely stunned.

---

---

Coming back from break, Michael Cole leads the commentary team in a replay of what went down just moments ago as Paul Heyman appeared to have announced he would finally have his clients Antonio Cesaro and Roman Reigns go head-to-head, only to tell Reigns he felt betrayed by him and thus, he announced it would Roman versus Brock Lesnar at Summerslam, instead of Cesaro. They go through the replay of the F5 in to the steel post and through the announce table before going forward to what happened during the break as Roman Reigns had to be assisted to the back. He would try and walk on his own, but was unable to. It is official, though, as it will indeed be Roman Reigns versus Brock Lesnar in four weeks at Summerslam.

The Usos vs The Rhodes Brothers: Jimmy and Jey made an unannounced return last week on Smackdown as two of Dean Ambrose's tag team partners and are back in action on Raw this week. The bell rings and they completely dominate their former rivals, as they try and keep things on track. Cody starts to get some momentum brewing and goes for the Disaster Kick, Jey managing to duck underneath it and hit a huge superkick. Rhodes stumbles back in to his corner and tags in his brother, Goldust coming in almost reluctantly. He tries to keep things going for his team but The Usos are red hot in their comeback and they just completely dominate him. After going 'Uso Crazy', as JBL would say, with a splash over the top rope from Jey, he chucks Goldust back in to the ring to be hit with a superkick from Jimmy - Jey following up by hitting a top rope splash, hooking the leg for the three count with no attempted break up from Cody.

The Usos defeat The Rhodes Brothers in 6:31.

Jimmy and Jey celebrate the victory with a big embrace, getting the crowd to chant their name. They prepare to exit the ring, but turn around to see Cody just shaking his head and walking away from his brother. Jey calls for a microphone from ringside and tells Cody to hold up. "Hey, Cody! While I've been injured and we've been watching at home... I've noticed you and your brother struggling. But take it from a couple of brothers who know what it is like to go through the same struggle and have gotten past it... it ain't worth it to be so disconnected with each other. Y'all need to work this thing out." They invite Rhodes back in to the ring, Cody putting his hands on his hips and thinking about it. He comes towards the ring and grabs the ropes but just backs right away, shaking his head before making his way up the ramp and to the back.

---

Alberto Del Rio is backstage after the break walking down the halls and he is stopped by Kevin Owens, the two having a very long stare down. ADR asks what he wants and Owens tells him nothing. "I just wanted to say... congratulations on the victory last night, Alberto. You guys beat us fair and square." The staring continues between the two as Del Rio says he doesn't trust him and has good reason not to. Owens says he can't disagree with that, telling Alberto that tonight, he might want to be extra careful. "Because rumor has it..." He looks down at his wrist and taps it, snickering. "It's Purge time." He pats Del Rio on the back and tells him to make sure CM Punk gets that message as well. Owens grins an evil grin, walking away very slowly.

Diva's Champion AJ Lee vs Brie Bella in a Non-Title Match: The bell rings and Brie is clearly not happy, having her sister forced to leave WWE after putting her career on the line in her match versus AJ Lee. The Diva's Champion misses an early clothesline and Brie takes over, hitting multiple hard shots to the face, trying to get some vengeance on AJ. Lee comes back strong, however, rocking Brie to the mat after a hard kick to the back. She goes for the Black Widow but Brie manages to grab the ropes before it can be locked in. After AJ releases, she is met with a kick to the gut and planted in a seated position against the ropes, allowing Brie to hit her with her signature knee to the face! "BRIE MODE!" She screams, raising her finger up high. She backs up to the ropes but from out of nowhere, is tripped to the mat by Paige! The official doesn't notice as he is busy checking on AJ, Brie standing up and glaring back at Paige, whom did the same thing to her sister last night. The distraction proves to be enough as AJ runs up to Brie and locks her up in the Black Widow, dropping her to a knee and forcing a submission.
Diva's Champion AJ Lee def. Brie Bella in 7:09.

"What is Paige's agenda?" Lawler questions. "She has helped her former heated rival, AJ Lee, back-to-back nights win her match!" Paige waves from atop the stage as AJ takes notice of her, shaking her head in frustration. The Diva's Champion questions what she wants but Paige gives no response and just makes her way to the back, AJ rolling out of the ring and following!

---

---

Back from the break, Diva's Champion AJ Lee is seen walking and asking around for Paige. She comes around a corner and is blasted in the face from out of nowhere with a kick! Paige stands over her and leans down with a smile. "My wedding is next week, AJ, and while I have that to look forward to... I want an extended honeymoon where I take back my Diva's Championship from the person whom took it away from me in the first place... A 'Queen' needs her crown, AJ, a 'Queen' needs her crown." She walks away as AJ cringes from the shot to the face in pain, one of the referees in the back hurrying over to check on her.

Over in Eric Bischoff's office, Seth Rollins is pacing back and forth, clearly very angry. "Eric, you know I had that match won last night against AJ Styles! I know it, you know it, AJ Styles knows it and the entire world knows it, damn it! You should just give me that title because I deserve it, damn it!" The General Manager responds by saying that he obviously can't just do that. Eric thinks for a moment, Rollins telling him to come up with something. "You know what, Seth. As much as I like you and as much as I took this job knowing I had the opportunity to have some one like you headline Eric Bischoff's WWE one day... I think you need to keep proving yourself because... to be honest... you haven't really done that since I showed up." Rollins asks what in the world he is talking about and Bischoff informs him that he is going to put him in a match. "A match with the man you lost to last week... a man that I'm sure you can beat: Ryback." Seth can't believe his ears and tries to snap back but is so frustrated, he can't make out any words. He storms out of the office, telling Eric on the way out that he is being really unfair.

---

CM Punk and Alberto Del Rio come down to the ring following the commercial and they get in to the ring, Chris Jericho's music hitting only for Y2J to not appear. His music hits a second time, but, once again - he doesn't arrive. Everyone is confused but on the titantron, Jericho is seen unconscious in the parking lot! The crowd gasps as Punk looks livid in the ring, leaning across the ropes and shaking his head. Soon, The Purge's music hits and out comes Kevin Owens to the stage with a smile across his face and a microphone in his hand. "You two act like you are surprised by this... but, I gave a fair warning to Alberto that it was time to Purge earlier on and when I said that... it wasn't just mind games. Because while you two were scrambling over that it was Sami Zayn and Solomon Crowe taking Chris Jericho out in the parking lot..." He smiles to the ring and says that now, it is time that Punk and Del Rio are taken out as well. In to the ring from behind comes the WWE Tag Team Champions, dropping both men to the mat! They begin a vicious beat down as referee Charles Robinson tries to gain order, Crowe and Zayn eventually backing down as Owens gets in to the ring giving them orders to do so. The trio talk things over as Del Rio and Punk both assure Robinson they want this match to happen!

The Purge vs CM Punk and Alberto Del Rio in a 3-on-2 Handicap Match: Kicking things off are Punk and Zayn, the two men involved in the decision last night. With Punk nursing his mid-section from the pre-match beat down, Sami completely dominates the match and after a near fall on a leg lariat, makes the tag to Crowe. The WWE Tag Team Champions work away, making frequent tags back and forth. Punk starts to mount a comeback on Zayn, however, with a swift kick to the back of the head to stop all momentum. He makes the hot tag to Del Rio and he charges in, dropping both Owens and Crowe off the apron before turning to Zayn with a stiff kick to the chin! Sami rolls out of the ring with the rest of The Purge as Alberto is fired up! A commercial break comes in as The Purge tries to regroup together on the outside. Following the time away, Punk and Del Rio control the contest, dominating Crowe in the corner. After a hard shot to the ribs, however, Solomon turns things back his way and levels Punk with a polish hammer clothesline to the face! After a bicycle kicks leads to a near fall, he looks to his corner as Owens calls for the tag - taking it. He comes in and runs his hands across his face, beginning to club across the back of Punk ruthlessly! He completely beats him down but misses a corner cannonball, Punk getting back up and running to Crowe and Zayn - dropkicking them off the apron! He returns at Owens with the running knee in the corner and goes for the bulldog, Owens shoving him forward - Punk hitting off the ropes as Del Rio makes the blind tag, coming in to blast Kevin with a hard kick to the head out of nowhere! He gets a near fall and, frustrated, slaps the mat repeatedly. After a stiff back and forth fight between Owens and Del Rio, Alberto drops him with a corner enzuiguri! With both men down, Zayn and Crowe rush around to go for Alberto's legs, only to have Punk rush in to the ring and dive through the ropes in to the both of them! The crowd pops but Del Rio gets back up, turning right in to a pop-up powerbomb from Owens! The fans cheers die down fast as Owens hooks the leg for the one, two, three.
The Purge def. CM Punk and Alberto Del Rio in 14:40.

Punk slides in to the ring but it is too late, reaching his hand out with a look of disappointment in his eyes. Owens rolls across and out of the ring, falling in to the arms of Crowe and Zayn. They share a laugh together as Punk gets on to his knees, breathing heavily as he pats Del Rio on the chest, telling him it is alright. They may have gotten the win last night, but The Purge has certainly taken full control of this rivalry as not only did they get the victory tonight, but they also took out Chris Jericho, although the extent of his injuries is unknown at this time.

---

---

A promo video airs for the next upcoming WWE pay-per-view, Summerslam, with the official theme song, "GDFR" by Flo Rida ft. Sage the Gemini. For the twenty-seventh year in a row, WWE hosts the biggest party of the summer and for the sixth consecutive year, it takes place in L.A.! Summerslam takes place on August 17, 2014 from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California live on pay-per-view and the WWE Network!

Back in the arena, Intercontinental Champion AJ Styles makes his way out to a solid ovation from the crowd. He comes over to ringside and joins the commentary team. "Look, guys, it's the guy that beat Seth Rollins last night! Good job, AJ Styles!" Jerry Lawler says on commentary with a laugh, clearly still holding a grudge against Rollins for taking him out a couple of months back. Styles says it was no problem, really. "No, really, it wasn't a problem." He says with a chuckle as Rollins' music hits, Mr. Money in the Bank marching down to the ring with a scowl across his face. Before getting in to the ring, he tells Styles that he is still coming for what he claims to be "his Intercontinental Championship". Ryback proceeds to make his way out as AJ says on commentary Rollins needs to stop talking and worry about beating 'The Big Guy'!

Seth Rollins vs Ryback: The match begins and Ryback quickly dominates Rollins despite his attempts to get away, overpowering him easily. He goes for an early Meat Hook Clothesline but Rollins slips out of the ring, falling up against the announce table with a bewildered look across his face, looking to Styles at the desk, slapping his hands off the table in frustration. Ryback laughs from inside the ring as a commercial break comes through. After the time away, Ryback keeps working away at Rollins and mocks him a bit. After a missed splash in the corner, though, Rollins comes right back and ends up rattling him with a springboard knee to the face! He hooks the legs, but gets a two count. After a bit more back and forth action, Seth rolls out of the ring and grabs his Money in the Bank briefcase and seems to be wanting to leave! He starts to head up the ramp but Ryback follows him, taking him by the hair! He brings him back in to the ring and the official takes the briefcase, handing it back over to ringside. With him distracted, Seth hits a big swift low blow kick to Ryback! He follows up with the Curb Stomp and gets the pinfall!
Seth Rollins def. Ryback in 8:45.

Rollins gets back to his feet, his eyes widened as he looks over the ropes at Styles on the outside. He backs up a bit and motions for the title around his waist. "That belongs to me, AJ! That belongs to me!" He shouts, Styles just simply standing up on the announce desk, raising his Intercontinental Championship up high over his head as this feud is clearly far from over.

---

At ringside after the commerical, Michael Cole says he has some news to report upon in regards to Dolph Ziggler, saying that Ziggler suffered a concussion last night during his King of the Ring Semi-Finals match with Randy Orton. Doctors have deemed him unable to compete for the foreseeable future. They show a tweet from Ziggler earlier on today, venting his frustrations by saying "Concussions suck... will be back SOONER rather than LATER. #Guarantee".

John Cena vs Wade Barrett (w/The Commonwealth): A week before his wedding, Wade Barrett gets met with a big obstacle in the form of John Cena. The veteran totally dominates the early goings as Barrett seems poised to continue his streak of losing big matches. He mounts a comeback after a big boot, getting multiple near falls. After a Winds of Change slam, he hooks the leg for yet another two and gets very frustrated, Cena taking the opportunity to lift him for the Attitude Adjustment! Barrett slips free, however, rolling out of the ring as a commercial comes in to interrupt the match. After the break, Barrett is back in control as he keeps things on the mat. Cena starts to fight back but Barrett stifles the comeback with a hard knee lift to the gut. After a corner clothesline, he sets up for the Bullhammer Elbow only to have Cena duck underneath it and hit him with his signature spinout powerbomb! After a five knuckle shuffle, he seems ready for the AA once again but Wade slips free a second time, Cena quickly and wisely tripping him to the mat to lock on the STF! Barrett struggles in the hold, scrambling for a way out! He gets all the way to the ropes and Cena gets up to pull him back, the leader of The Commonwealth rolling over and pushing back with his foot. He gets back to his feet and gets smacked with a ginormous clothesline from Cena! With the crowd getting wild, Cena once again seems prepped to go for the Attitude Adjustment only for Antonio Cesaro to come rushing down the ramp to the confusion of everyone! Cesaro hops on to the apron and Cena looks to him, questioning what he wants. Antonio, with a smirk, mocks Cena with a 'You can't see me!' wave, Cena stepping up towards him only for Cesaro to drop down, John shaking his head before turning right in to the Bullhammer Elbow! Barrett hooks both legs for the one, two, three!
Wade Barrett def. John Cena in 15:19.

"What in the world was Antonio Cesaro doing out here!?" Questions Michael Cole as he backs up the ramp slowly, Barrett celebrating his victory along with The Commonwealth. As Cesaro makes his way through the curtains and The Commonwealth keeps the celebration going, Cena looks up the stage with his head between the ropes, confused over what just happened.

---

---

Backstage after the break, Paul Heyman and Roman Reigns are seen quickly making their way through the halls with smiles across their faces, Renee Young running up to stop them, asking what that was all about just moments ago! "Look, Renee, we don't have much time." Heyman responds. "I've got a pissed off Samoan Superman somewhere in this building getting taped up from the beating he took earlier and now I've got a pissed off American Superman somewhere in the building trying to get his hands on Antonio..." Cesaro nods and says he'll give answers next week on Raw, but for now, they have to get going. They head off, leaving much curiosity.

The cameras pan back in to the arena and to the surprise of everyone, "Awesome!" is heard, JBL expressing his excitement as The Miz himself makes his way out from the back! He displays a bit of a changed look, having a new hair style, black sunglasses and a long, unique white robe. He points to the crowd with a big smile as he comes down to the ring, demanding a microphone from ringside. After being given it, he gazes around the arena. "What a treat it must be for you, Miami... what a treat it must be to be in the presence of a Hollywood A-Lister." Cole holds it on commentary but soon bursts out a laugh, "Wh-what? Hollywood A-Lister!?" He questions. Miz goes on saying that he has been gone for a few months filming 'The Marine 4: Moving Target' and it is the performance of a life time by a 'legendary WWE superstar and soon to be legendary film star'. He even suggests that one day, he'll have his own star on the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame! "It is so great to be back for all of you... little people." He smiles and prepares to say more, only to be cut off by the titantron flashing blue lights and lines. After a minute or so, it reads 'PREPARE FOR LIFTOFF: IN 5' and begins a count down, coming to zero before smoke fills the stage - a recognizable to some NXT theme song hitting. Soon from the smoke comes former NXT Champion, Adrian Neville! "Wow, ladies and gentlemen!" Cole says in excitement. "We've seen the promos for weeks about preparing for liftoff and apparently this is it... this is Adrian Neville! A former NXT Champion now joining the ranks of the main roster!"

Neville comes in to the ring and after playing things up to the crowd a bit, stares The Miz down. "Really?" Questions the 'Hollywood A-Lister', a look of disgust across his face. "Really? You're going to interrupt me!? You're going to interrupt The Miz!? Who do you think you... no, actually, that is a great question! Who are you!?" He puts the mike up to Neville's face and he says his name is Adrian Neville, getting a solid ovation from the crowd. Miz says that as much as he meant it when he said it was great to be back for all of the little people, he didn't mean for the likes of Neville. The crowd groans an 'ooh' as Neville laughs, asking for the microphone. Miz rolls his eyes and hands it over, 'The Man That Gravity Forgot' smiling to him. "With all due respect, Miz, this is my night to debut... and I think that you're taking up my time with your little return." The American Airlines Arena gives another sharp 'ooh' at the words as Miz rips the mike back, looking around the arena before kneeling down in to the face of Neville. "I'm taking up your time? I don't think so... see, this is my ring! I've been World Champion in this ring... now, you'd be wise to leave my ring before I do something I regr-" Before he can finish the sentence, Neville blasts him with a spinning kick to the gut! He shows off his freakish athleticism by hand-springing off the ropes and coming back with a big tornado DDT! Miz rolls out of the ring and looks bewildered by the move, looking around wildly. He grabs the microphone from in the ring and paces back and forth on the outside. "You want your debut!? You want your debut right here tonight in my ring!? Then do it against me!" He throws the microphone to the ground as it appears it will be Adrian Neville taking on The Miz in Neville's debut match!

---

Adrian Neville vs The Miz: The official calls for the bell and Miz trash talks as he walks up to Neville, putting his face to his head with a laugh. Adrian sends a big kick up to the gut and tees off on Miz with shots to the face, Miz throwing him back in to the corner and hitting a hard shot to the face. He laughs as he backs away, charging forward for his signature between-the-ropes clothesline, only for Neville to avoid it and slip out to the apron, hitting him with a hard kick to the face! Miz falls back in to the ring and Adrian hits a hard shoulder to the gut, leaping over him for a sunset flip - Miz powering out at two. Adrian gets whipped in to the corner but he leaps up and over Miz, hand-springing all the way across the ring! He gets stifled by a knee to the gut on the return, however, Miz turning things back in his favor. He keeps Neville grounded for a minute or so before Neville comes right back, only to get chucked to the outside. Miz follows and Adrian hops on to the apron, hitting a springboard moonsault! He plays up the crowd a bit and lets Miz get back in to the ring, following him and hitting multiple kicks to the gut and chest. He is stopped by Miz jabbing a thumb to the eye, setting up for the Skull Crushing Finale! Neville fights out of it, however, pushing Miz back in to the corner. He charges forward with a ferocious uppercut and Miz flops to the mat, Neville looking all around the arena to some strong cheers. He steps out to the apron and slowly makes his way to the top rope, taking another look around the arena with a smile before delivering his finisher: The Red Arrow, to the amazement of the WWE Universe! He hooks the leg for the three count.
Adrian Neville def. The Miz in 6:59.

Neville rises back on to his feet, having his arm raised while being announced the winner, very successful in his main roster debut! He keeps the crowd going as he climbs to the second rope, pointing out to the Miami fans. Miz, meanwhile, cringes on the mat in pain as his return was not as successful, or graceful, as the debut of Adrian Neville here tonight.

In the back, United States Champion Dean Ambrose is seen walking through the corridors. He will be speaking next in regards to what is next for the 'Lunatic Fringe'!

---

The crowd goes wild as Dean Ambrose's music hits, the United States Champion marching his way out from the back with his title swinging from his hand. He throws it over his shoulder as he comes down to the ring, working the crowd up as he looks around from the ropes with his eyes widened and crazed! He twirls a microphone in his hand as he is presented one, taking a moment before speaking. "Y'know, it's been quite a crazy year for me... I was United States Champion at this time last year... then I lost it. But I wasn't too worried because I knew things would come around and sure as hell they did because I got myself in to the WWE Championship picture pretty fast after that but then I got stopped by... The Authority." Boos come down for the reminder of the Triple H-led authority, Ambrose somewhat jokingly saying that he agrees that those guys sucked - sucked hard. He then moves on to his whole thing with battling The Authority and then going on to face Triple H not once, but twice and although he lost the second encounter it was kind of flukish because he still beat the crap out of Hunter. "But then it all came back around to me becoming United States Champion once again and recently... I've been dealing with some bloke named Wade Barrett trying to take this thing away from me. Hey, guys, I beat him last night so I've been dealing with the question of what is next for Dean Ambrose!" He throws his hands up to the crowd, asking if they want to know what is next for him. Before he can get anything more out, Wade Barrett's thick, recognizable British accent is heard telling him to wait just a moment. He comes out to the stage to boos, being followed by the entire Commonwealth. He stares down from atop the stage, Ambrose leaning across the ropes with a smile across his face, waiting to hear more from the man he beat just last night.

"In case you didn't take notice, Ambrose, I am fresh off a victory over John Cena." Barrett says with a grin, not even mentioning the assistance he got from Antonio Cesaro to win that match. "And last night, yeah you pinned me in the middle of that ring... but you and I both know damn well that you just pulled off the upset of a lifetime." Ambrose's eyes widen once again and he says he wasn't aware that he pulled off the upset of a lifetime! Barrett stares at him, noticing the sarcastic tone in his voice and calling him out on it, saying that he doesn't appreciate it. "But much like my dearest bride-to-be, my soon-to-be official 'Queen', Paige, I want something royal for myself following my royal wedding... that being in the form of your precious United States Championship, Ambrose." He laughs as the 'Lunatic Fringe' says that Barrett is all over the place, talking about beating John Cena, but not mentioning Antonio Cesaro's help, to talking about his wedding next week on Raw, to wanting another crack at the United States title. "Man, you really need to get your crap straight but from all of what I gathered... putting pieces with each other like some clustered puzzle... you want a match for my United States Championship next week here on Raw?" The crowd cheers as Barrett shakes his head, telling Dean he knows very well that he has his wedding next week on Raw, so he wants that match the week after! Ambrose scratches his head and looks to the crowd. "Eh, screw it. Why not? I've already beaten you countless times, Wade, why not give the king a wedding gift and let him get his ass beat just one more time?" The crowd cheers the words of Ambrose as his music hits, Barrett staring him down and vowing to become United States Champion, the 'Lunatic Fringe' completely ignoring him at this point to work the American Airlines Arena up as much as he can.

---

---

"Rusev putria! Rusev matka!" is heard upon the return, the WWE Universe booing as down to the ring comes 'The Bulgarian Brute' Rusev and 'The Ravishing Russian' Lana. The latter holds a microphone in her hand and smiles to the crowd, calling for their silence. "Since dominating the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at WrestleMania... Rusev has been an unstoppable force. Man after man has looked to defeat the great Rusev... but all have failed. Tonight, Rusev offers the opportunity to anyone in the back whom thinks they have what it takes to beat him to test him... for you will, just like the American peasants before us here tonight..." Boos come down for the remark to the Miami fans. "Will fail." Lana puts the mike to her side as Rusev yells up the stage while holding the Russian flag in his hand, the big, red signature pyro of Kane hitting across the stage to a pop from the crowd! 'The Big Red Monster' comes marching his way down and in to the ring, setting the pyros off from the corner while staring down Rusev - whom, in a rare sight, has a somewhat intimidated look across his face.

Rusev (w/Lana) vs Kane: The bell sounds and Rusev isn't quite sure how to approach Kane to start, coming up to him and shouting up to his face. Kane responds with a hard shot to the jaw and levels Rusev multiple times, even dropping him with a big boot. Rusev regroups on the outside before coming back in to the ring, being rattled some more. He comes back after a hard shot to the chest with a kick, building some momentum in his favor afterward. He misses on a splash in the corner, turning back in to a sidewalk slam! The crowd is a big surprised with Kane picking him up with ease, but isn't much surprised in the two count that follows. As 'The Big Red Monster' keeps control of the match, Rusev being dominated more than he ever has thus far, he sets up for the Chokeslam only to be kicked below the belt by 'The Bulgarian Brute'!
Kane def. Rusev via disqualification in 5:51.

Kane drops to a knee and Rusev hits off the ropes, returning with a big leaping kick to the chin! He lets out a big roar as he takes the Russian Flag from it's stand on the outside, bringing it in the ring in order to crack Kane across the face with the bottom part of it! He waves the flag high over his head as the WWE Universe boos, Lana coming in to the ring to stand next to Rusev as while he got himself disqualified, has made a statement on Kane while remaining unpinned and yet to be submitted in his entire time on the main roster. "But is he reaching a breaking point, guys?" Lawler questions on commentary. "Has Rusev been rattled enough here tonight that his yet-to-be pinned or submit streak bound to come to an end soon? You have to wonder!"

General Manager Eric Bischoff is seen backstage talking with some production crew members, laughing over something. After patting one of them on the shoulder, he heads off as he will be presenting the brand new WWE Championship belt to Bryan Danielson after the break!

---

---

"I'm back!" Is heard upon the return, the Miami crowd responding mostly negatively as General Manager Eric Bischoff makes his way out to the stage with a ginormous smirk across his face. He comes down to the ring, which is set with a black carpet and a stand covered by a cloth. "Well, Miami, the show is almost over! But we have one more big piece of business to take care of and I think you all know what that business is... the unveiling of the new WWE Championship belt!" Bischoff gauges the crowd's interest in seeing it as they cheer, Eric teasing removing the cover before pulling back, saying they're going to have to wait just a few more minutes! "I still have to do the introduction, people! So allow me to get on with it... this new-look title belt will be presented in just moments to a man... that has overcome all the odds in his career! To a man that, despite the fact that people told him 'No!' came back with a resounding 'Yes! Yes! Yes!' every time!" The crowd breaks out in to the chant and Bischoff expects it, letting them go on for a bit before continuing on, saying that without further ado - Bryan Danielson!

The arena goes wild as Danielson himself comes out from the back, looking around the arena before starting up the 'Yes!' chants along with them. He hops all the way down to the ring and comes right in, shaking hands with Bischoff. The General Manager hands the mike over to him and offers him a moment to say some things. "Wow, guys... I know I say it almost every week now but there really isn't any better feeling than coming out here and getting to hear that!" He shakes his head and says that tonight, it isn't just about being presented with the brand new look WWE Championship belt, it is about embracing this moment with the entire WWE Universe. "Because without each and every one of you guys, I wouldn't get to have this moment. Without each and every one of you guys... I wouldn't have made it through last night and I wouldn't be the one being presented this title because it could have been John Cena... it could have been Roman Reigns... it could have been Antonio Cesaro. Hell, it could have been Seth Rollins..." Bryan gives a look to Bischoff, whom can't help but agree that it very well could have been. The champion thanks the fans once again and says that he just has one question of them: Are they ready to see the new title? A riveting 'Yes!' chant comes in response, Bischoff taking the cloth off to reveal the belt, shined up nicely with the new WWE logo centered on it. Eric slowly takes hold of it and presents it over to Bryan, whom takes a look to it with a smile. He gives it a kiss and raises it up to the crowd, pumping it up and down to the chants while circling the ring.

Just as the Miami crowd seems to be satisfied, the signature of The Wyatt Family hits. The fans buzz as on the titantron appears Bray Wyatt, Luke Harper and Erick Rowan behind him. Wyatt laughs as he dangles his fingers in front of the camera. "It must be... so nice. So, so very nice to be able to share this moment with all of your friends, Bryan." He says, looking straight in to the lens of the camera with a smile. "But I'm afraid that those friends of yours don't know who you really are deep down inside, Bryan... nah, man, see... you're just like me. You just express yourself in a different way than myself. For I present my demons with destruction! With chaos! You, on the other hand, Bryan... you present your demons to the world with manipulation. I like that, Bryan. I like that..." Danielson looks confused in the ring, all by himself now, as Wyatt keeps going on saying that while he likes the way Bryan 'manipulates' the people, that will not stop his path of destruction, his will to create chaos and ultimately derail him from his ultimate goal. "At Summerslam, Bryan, us two monsters get together... fighting for that prize that sits over your shoulder right now... but only one of these two monsters gets to walk away with it... and who are you to believe it will not be the one that ended the streak of The Undertaker? Who are you to believe it will not be the one that has not been stopped by any force of nature since coming to this Earth!? WHO ARE YOU TO BELIEVE IT WILL NOT BE BRAY WYATT!?" He spreads his arms out and lets out an eerie chuckle, warning Danielson to run before the signature of The Wyatt Family hits once again. The lights go out in the arena and after a few moments, they come back on. Standing across from Bryan is Erick Rowan, tilting his head from behind his sheep mask. Danielson quickly spins around right in to the grasp of Bray Wyatt! He plants him with a kiss to the side of the head before laying him out with Sister Abigail! The WWE Universe is stunned silent as Wyatt takes the WWE Championship from the mat, cradling it in his hands while on his knees. Harper and Rowan slowly come up behind him as they all stay above the lifeless body of Danielson, Wyatt laughing to the heavens. "FOLLOW... THE BUZZARDS!" He yells as Monday Night Raw draws to an end with the signature of The Wyatt Family hitting.

---

---

JULY 31, 2014 FROM THE AMERICAN BANK CENTER IN CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS

---

Following the opening Smackdown video, the cameras come in to the American Bank Center in Corpus Christi, Texas. Michael Cole and John Bradshaw Layfield are on commentary and tonight we will hear from Roman Reigns for the first time since the brutal assault at the hands of Brock Lesnar ten days ago on Raw. Plus, in the main event we will see 'Mr. Money in the Bank' Seth Rollins going one-on-one with the United States Champion, Dean Ambrose!

After the introduction, Michael Cole comes in to the ring with a microphone. He looks out to the crowd and says that just ten days ago on Monday Night Raw, we saw a brutal beat down on the man he is about to interview at the hands of the returning Brock Lesnar. Tonight, we get the first words of him since that beat down. Without further ado, Cole proceeds to turn to the stage and welcome Roman Reigns. The WWE Universe gives the most positive reception they have given Reigns since arriving on to the scene nearly sixteen months ago. He stops atop the stage and looks around the arena, driving his fist in to the stage as a big pyro hits behind him! With a new triumphant entrance, Reigns bucks his shoulders to the cheering crowd and makes his way down and in to the ring. He shakes hands with Cole and they each take a seat in the chairs that are placed in the middle of the ring, Michael thanking him for his time here tonight. 

"Roman, obviously we all know what happened to you a little over a week ago but let's take yet another look at it." Cole says as everyone turns their attention to the titantron, showing Reigns in the ring with his then-manager Paul Heyman, with Heyman seeming to have set up a match at Summerslam between his two clients, Reigns and Antonio Cesaro. However, Heyman would turn on Reigns by calling him a 'disappointment' and claimed to be 'let down' and 'betrayed' by him. He would proceed to introduce the opponent he signed on for him at Summerslam, Brock Lesnar. Although Reigns would surprise all by leaping over the top rope to take down 'The Beast Incarnate', he would be struck from behind and eventually hit with not just an F5 in to the steel post, but through the announce table. Back in the arena, Reigns nods and turns back to Cole, whom tells him that was tough to watch live and just as tough to watch again right now. Roman laughs, Cole asking what it is he finds funny. "I'm sorry, Michael. It's just kind of funny to watch that footage back because I get to see what a scumbag Paul Heyman really is." He smiles and the crowd cheers for the comment, Cole saying he is going to be impartial on that topic, but he wants to know what his initial feelings were after that happened. Reigns leans back in his seat and thinks for a moment before speaking again. "At first? I was a bit shocked... I mean, you can watch back and I looked at Paul like I'd seen a ghost or something... but now, if anything, there is no reason I should be so shocked because that is the type of guy Paul Heyman is... I'm not afraid to admit that I haven't lived up to expectations as much as I would have liked to. But in the eyes of Paul... the time was up. He grew impatient with me and he pulled the trigger."

Cole nods and moves forward to the obvious marquee match up at Summerslam against Brock Lesnar and wants to hear what his thoughts are on what Brock had to say in his interview on Monday and what he thinks going in to that match in just a few weeks. "You know, Michael... I said that Paul pulled the trigger on turning his back on me. But you know what I got? I've got a hair trigger... and if Brock Lesnar doesn't believe in me now... if Paul Heyman doesn't believe in me now... they're both going to have to believe in me at Summerslam when I cock this fist and drive it in to the jaw of Brock over and over and over and over again! Believe that." The Corpus Christi crowd cheers and Michael prepares to move on, only for the two to be surprisingly interrupted by the theme music of Bo Dallas. Everyone is confused as 'The Inspirational' makes his way out from the back with his signature ridiculous smile across his face and a microphone in his hand. "Roman, you sure do talk a lot about believing." He says as he enters the ring, Cole leaving as Reigns gets to his feet staring him down. "But you know what you're doing wrong? What you have done wrong your entire career? You haven't... Bo-lieved." He puts his hands out and Reigns shakes his head, asking if he is seriously making the mistake coming out here being the first guy he has the opportunity to lay out since getting the crap kicked out of him. At first, it appears that Bo is intimidated but he quickly eases off with a smile. "Oh, come on now, Roman! That isn't really necessary! All I am trying to do is help you before you get in to the ring with a man that is clearly much stronger, bigger, badder and better than you are! But it will all be okay if you just open your mind up and realize instead of believing you start Bo-lieving!" Dallas looks out to the crowd, raising a thumb up as they boo him heavily. Roman looks around to them and turns right back to Dallas, getting him to look him in the eyes before responding. "I Bo-lieve you better get out of the ring before I make you get out of the ring..." The WWE Universe turns the booing in to cheering quickly as Dallas laughs, suddenly getting serious as he swings a sudden fist! Reigns catches the wrist, however, pummeling Bo with shot after shot to the face! He hits a big knee to the gut and chucks him in to the corner, going off the other side of the ring before charging back with a clothesline that Dallas avoids by dropping to the mat! He rolls outside and the fans are disappointed, Dallas pacing back and forth while grabbing hold of his chin.

---

---

Roman Reigns vs Bo Dallas: During the break on the WWE App, it was announced that we'd have Reigns and Dallas face right now and the bell rings. Bo slips out of the ring quickly, pacing back and forth. Reigns follows behind him and spins him around, delivering a hard shot to the chin! He completely overpowers Dallas and chucks him back in to the ring, hitting a big Samoan Drop! He toys around with Dallas a bit, not allowing him to get in to the match whatsoever. With his shoulder, Reigns drives in to Bo's gut repeatedly in the corner! After he is backed away from Dallas by the referee, Roman puts his hands up and gets jabbed with a thumb to the eye. Dallas hits a few shots to the face and goes for the Running Bo-Dog quickly, only for Roman to shove him off, let him hit off the ropes and rock him with the Superman Punch! Reigns kneels down in the corner and after letting out a roar to the crowd, drops Dallas with an absolutely vicious Spear! Dallas turns inside out and Reigns hooks both legs up for the one, two, three.

Roman Reigns def. Bo Dallas in 3:54.

The Texas crowd cheers as Reigns gets back to his feet, running his hands through his hair with a smile across his face. He steps over to the ropes and calls for a microphone, walking back to Bo as he remains laid out in the middle of the ring. "Now... I think everyone can Bo-lieve that!" He says, dropping the mike down. He raises his fists up high over his head.

Renee Young is backstage and she is standing by with Adrian Neville. She thanks him for his time as he steps forward, Young asking how it has been making the transition from NXT to the main roster here in the WWE. "Well, Renee, it hasn't been easy but it has certainly been a joy. I knew I was making a big leap but I feel like I've prepared well... and I feel like I've got a lot to do here and I..." He stops as up to him walks The Miz, clapping with a smile across his face. The two stare down and Miz tells Neville that he is glad to hear he is liking his time here in the WWE so far, because the joy ride is over. "You've got your match tonight, Adrian. But you better get ready because I'm getting my rematch against you this Monday on Raw and this time... you're not going to be as lucky as you were the first time." Miz smiles, waves and heads off as Adrian just stares him down, as he will be in action after the break.

---

Adrian Neville vs Tyson Kidd (w/Natalya): The bell rings and the match begins very fast paced, Neville and Kidd flipping each other all around the ring. Kidd avoids a corner splash and swings a huge kick to the gut, hitting one to the face afterward. Following a series of near falls back and forth, the two spill to the outside. Neville whips Kidd in to the barricade and gets back on to the apron, climbing to the top rope and hitting a moonsault on the outside! With the crowd getting behind Neville, The Miz makes his way out from the back - standing atop the stage. He watches on as Neville pulls Kidd back in to the ring, growing distracted with Miz, which allows Tyson to roll him up for a close two and hit a big swift kick to the chest that turns momentum in his favor. As soon as he goes for the Sharpshooter, however, Neville pushes him back and gets back up, ducking a clothesline and flipping across the ring! He avoids Kidd as he runs at him in the corner, hitting a hard leaping DDT! Neville rolls out to the apron and after a short stare to The Miz, he goes to the top rope and hits the Red Arrow! He hooks Kidd's for the three count.
Adrian Neville def. Tyson Kidd in 6:33.

Neville rises back on to his feet holding on to his midsection, his arm raised up by the referee. Adrian looks up the ramp to Miz, whom applauds him just as he did on Raw. They will face this Monday in a rematch of Neville's debut where he scored the upset on Miz.

---

Back from the break, the entrance music of Rusev hits to strong boos from the crowd. Along with 'The Bulgarian Brute' comes his manager, Lana. The pair comes down to the ring, Rusev waving the Russian flag high over his head in the process. Lana holds a microphone in her hand and she calls for the crowd to 'shut up'. As the heat comes coming towards them, Rusev looks around furiously, shouting at them in his native tongue. "In case all of you have forgotten, Rusev has dominated your entire roster since arriving at WrestleMania XXX... Rusev won your Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal... and melted that pathetic trophy in to his honorable medal he received from the Russian Federation." She looks around the arena and tells the WWE Universe to shut up once again! She continues on saying that Big Show tried to stop Rusev, but he was crushed. Next, it was Ryback and he was crushed as well. "Mark Henry... your American hero? Your 'World's Strongest Man'? Crushed. Broken. Defeated." She smiles to Rusev, whom nods in return. Lana moves forward to the man that wants to be the next victim to Rusev, the man that has confronted him the last two weeks - Kane. The Corpus Christi crowd cheers for the mention of the name alone, another 'shut up!' coming from Lana. Rusev snatches the microphone away from her and steps forward, yelling in his language once again. "Stupid Americans! Kane? Kane is the perfect representation of you pathetic, weak Americans!" He breaths heavily and looks all around the arena. "Kane hides behind a mask... he knows he is not just ugly, but a weak spirit. A weak spirit that deserves to be crushed... trampled under foot in the name of mother Russia!"

Suddenly, a big red pyro hits on the stage and out comes Kane! The 'Big Red Monster' himself approaches the ring but Rusev tells him to hold on, Kane pulling his hands off the ropes slowly. "You want to fight me, Kane? HUH!? YOU WANT TO FIGHT ME!?" He steps up to the ropes and smiles slowly, telling him that is too bad - he doesn't fight 'big red cowards'. Kane just stares in return and looks from side to side, grabbing hold of the ropes again! He gets on to the apron and suddenly, Rusev runs forward and hits him with a big leaping kick to the face! The crowd boos as Rusev laughs, Kane sitting up on the outside to a pop! Rusev looks bewildered by what he just saw, 'The Big Red Monster' coming back in to the ring! He gets up and exchanges shots with Rusev, getting an upper hand before being smashed with a hard low blow kick! The jeering starts up from the WWE Universe again as Rusev takes his Russian flag, jamming the base of the post in to the lower back of Kane! He hits him again and again before giving the flag over to Lana, locking Kane in The Accolade! He pulls back on it as hard as he can, yelling as he does so! Rusev refuses to let go of the hold as two referees come rushing to the ring to try and break it off. 'The Bulgarian Brute' doesn't let off of Kane, however, until he stops putting up a fight and appears to be passed out. Rusev gets to his feet and stands over his lifeless body with a sick, yet satisfied grin across his face. He raises his fists over his head and a giant Russian Flag pops from above the ring, to obvious boos from the crowd. "After seeing that, Michael, you have to wonder if even the likes of Kane can stop this Rusev!" Says Layfield from commentary.

---

Standing in the ring after the break is Big E, whom looks very determined. He pacing back and forth while waiting, eventually stopping at the music of Antonio Cesaro, whom makes his way out from the back along with his manager, Paul Heyman. They strut down the ramp together, Heyman with a microphone in his hand. "Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Paul Heyman... and in just a few weeks at Summerslam you will watch as my client BRROCKK LESNNNNARRR... will eviscerate the biggest disappointment in the history of WWE... Roman Reigns." He smiles to the booing fans and gestures his hand out to Cesaro, saying that this is the man that he truly feels deep down within him will never let him down, just as he didn't when he won the WWE title a few months back. "And if John Cena wants some... he can come get some. In the mean time, Big E... it's time to swing with 'The Swiss Superman'!" Cesaro steps in to the ring with a smile.

Antonio Cesaro (w/Paul Heyman) vs Big E: The match begins and 'The Swiss Superman' is very mocking towards Big E, whom responds fast with a very hard clothesline that surprises him. Big E displays his power and every time Cesaro tries to show off, he is blocked off by Big E. After a splash in the corner, Big E goes for the Big Ending but Antonio slips off the shoulders, hitting a huge dropkick that sends Big E through the ropes and to the outside. Cesaro comes to the outside and remains overconfident, which allows Big E to slam him up in to the steel post! A commercial break comes in with Big E all fired up! After the break, Cesaro is frustrated as he is back in control, refusing to let up on Big E. He ends up chucking him in the corner, hitting many of uppercuts ferociously! He goes for the Cesaro Swing and goes around sixteen times, flexing to the fans afterward. He calls for the finish and sets Big E in position for the Neutralizer, only for him to push back and hit a huge belly to belly suplex! Big E gets some momentum going and pulls down the straps, preparing to finish things off in his favor! He turns around and yanks Cesaro to his feet, lifting him for the Big Ending. Heyman gets on to the apron, however, and begins to scream at him. Big E walks forward towards him and it allows enough time for Cesaro to slip free, kick Big E in the gut on the spinaround and drop him with the Neutralizer! Quickly, he covers him with the outside leg hooked for the pinfall.
Antonio Cesaro def. Big E in 9:09.

Cesaro gets back on to his feet and clearly looks frustrated with Big E being so difficult to beat. He forces him back on to his feet and throws him in to the corner, delivering many of uppercuts! He refuses to let up until Roman Reigns' music hits! Antonio spins around wildly and Reigns comes rushing down the ramp and in to the ring, Cesaro quick to roll out of the ring. Roman turns to Heyman as he stands at ringside and stomps towards him, only for Cesaro and Heyman to get away quickly. "I'm gonna get you one day, too..." Reigns warns as he points at Antonio.

---

A promo video airs for the next upcoming WWE pay-per-view, Summerslam, with the official theme song, "GDFR" by Flo Rida ft. Sage the Gemini. For the twenty-seventh year in a row, WWE hosts the biggest party of the summer and for the sixth consecutive year, it takes place in L.A.! Summerslam takes place on August 17, 2014 from the Staples Center in Los Angeles, California live on pay-per-view and the WWE Network!

Diva's Champion AJ Lee vs Layla (w/Paige) in a Non-Title Match: As soon as the bell sounds, Paige distracts AJ and lets Layla drive her forearm in to the back of the head! She gets a few rough shots in and garners a series of near falls on roll ups. After hitting a suplex, Layla goes to the top rope and prepares to leap off, missing on a crossbody! AJ turns things totally in her favor, working away at the arm. She doesn't even bother with Paige any further and after a hard kick to the back of the head, AJ wraps her up in the Black Widow! Layla scrambles in the hold, trying to find a way out. Paige screams for her not to tap out, but Layla eventually does.
Diva's Champion AJ Lee def. Layla in 5:01.

The fans cheer on the Diva's Champion as she lets go of the hold, getting back to her feet with the Diva's Championship belt being presented to AJ. Paige watches from the outside and shakes her head, motioning for it to be around her waist. "That's mine!" She screams, vowing to take it away from AJ this Monday on Raw, just like she took her wedding away!

Once again, Renee Young is standing by backstage and her guests right now: The Usos. Jimmy and Jey come forward, Renee thanking them for their time tonight and she asks how Jimmy is feeling after the fall he took on Raw, as well as the beat down he took at the hands of Cody Rhodes. "Obviously I don't feel too good, Renee." He says, pointing down to his knee. "I landed pretty bad... but I'll be fine. I'm not worried about it. What I'm worried about is the mental state of Cody Rhodes..." Jey agrees, saying that tonight he gets to face Cody's brother, Goldust, and while he is focused on getting the win, he is also focused on trying to snap Rhodes out of this crazy state he has been in. "Because we understand brotherhood... and we don't like seeing it get torn apart because one brother can't control himself." Jimmy says it isn't good for anyone to have a crazy Cody Rhodes running around. The two head off as Jey faces Goldust - next.

---

Back from break, Cole and JBL make the announcement that next week on Raw it will be WWE Champion Bryan Danielson going one-on-one with Luke Harper of The Wyatt Family! Plus, they have received word that Roman Reigns will call out Paul Heyman and Brock Lesnar! Before they have a chance to say anything more, the The Wyatt Family signature hits! Bray Wyatt appears on the titantron with a chuckle. "Time is running out, Bryan... it's just a matter... of time." He swings his lantern back and forth and raises his eyebrows, grinning to the camera. "Soon, your precious title will be in my arms... and all the pressure... will be lifted off of your shoulders." Wyatt paces back and forth, saying that this is what is mean to be and Danielson should not fight or test fate, because this is what Abigail called for a very, very long time ago. "Run!" Wyatt warns as he leans in, the signature of The Wyatt Family hitting once again.

Goldust (w/Cody Rhodes) vs Jey Uso (w/Jimmy Uso): The match begins, Goldust offering a handshake to Jey, which he accepts. The two scrap a little bit and the veteran shows he still has a lot left in the tank as he is able to keep up with the much younger Jey. After an atomic drop, he hits a big DDT that results in a near fall. As the match continues to go back and forth with each man garnering close near falls, Jey goes for a flash pin that gets the closest of them. As the two are going at it, Rhodes goes over to Jimmy on the outside and throws him in to the steel steps from behind! The crowd boos in disgust as both Goldust and Jey lean over the ropes yelling at Cody! "You're not getting the job done, brother!" Rhodes shouts, hopping to the apron. He steps in to the ring and gets in his brother's face before turning around to Jey, blasting him with a hard kick below the belt! The crowd boos as the referee has to call for the bell.
Jey Uso def. Goldust via disqualification in 5:52.

Goldust spins his brother back to him and shoves him back in to the ropes. "What are you doing, Cody!?" He screams, Rhodes growing a grin across his face as he yanks Jey back up just to lay him out with Cross Rhodes right in the middle of the ring! Goldust leans down to Jey fast so he can check on him, Cody slowly rolling out of the ring. "That's... how you get it done, brother..." He says as he backs up the ramp and through the curtains as both Goldust and Jimmy remain in the ring checking on Jey, while Goldust looks up the ramp shaking his head in disappointment.

---

---

United States Champion Dean Ambrose vs Seth Rollins in a Non-Title Match: The bell rings, Ambrose flipping Rollins to the mat repeatedly. 'Mr. Money in the Bank' is quickly rattled, allowing Dean to keep rocking him to the mat. After a top rope elbow to the face, he calls for an early finish as he sets up for Dirty Deeds! Rollins pulls himself free, however, hitting a superkick! He goes for the quick pin, only getting two. He grows frustrated and mounts on top of Dean, pummeling him with shot after shot to the face. He is pulled back at the count of four from the official and he backs to the ropes, running right back for the Curb Stomp! The 'Lunatic Fringe' manages to juke out of the way, hitting a hard clothesline over the ropes and to the floor! With the crowd behind Ambrose, a commercial break comes in. Following the break, Ambrose keeps control of the contest and holds a tight headlock on the mat. He refuses to let up but Rollins has a comeback, hitting some rough shots. After a spin kick to the gut, he smashes Ambrose in to the corner, bringing him to the top rope. The two throw headbutts and fists wildly, Dean looking to suplex Rollins to the outside! The crowd cheers for the possibility but Rollins holds on, trying to yank Ambrose back the other way. He is pushed down and hit with a big elbow to the head! With momentum turning completely in his way again, Ambrose goes wild! After Rollins tries to get away by going out of the ring only for 'The Lunatic Fringe' to hit him with a suicide dive in to the announce table! After a near fall in the ring, the two start to exchange groggy blows. After a big shot from Rollins, Ambrose falls halfway through the ropes and returns with his signature clothesline! He gets to his feet and seems poised to hit Dirty Deeds, only for Wade Barrett to come down to the ring! The leader of The Commonwealth charges at Ambrose with a boot but it is avoided, the United States Champion hitting his signature clothesline again - this time on Barrett! The Corpus Christi crowd cheers up until Ambrose turns in to a spinning kick to the gut, followed by the Curb Stomp! Rollins hooks both legs up as quick as he can for the three!
Seth Rollins def. United States Champion Dean Ambrose in 14:25.

The WWE Universe boos as Rollins is quick on to his feet, laughing as he is given his Money in the Bank briefcase. He clutches it close to his chest while leaning up in the corner, looking to the outside at Barrett. The two share a look and Seth gives a nod, Barrett coming in to the ring with a grin. He inverts his elbow pad, winding his arm up! The boos of the crowd turns fast to cheers as the theme music of Intercontinental Champion AJ Styles hits! 'The Phenomenal' burst out from the back and runs down to the ring, ducking the Bullhammer Elbow from his former rival in Barrett, splashing in to Rollins in the corner with a forearm! He turns and Barrett runs in to Seth with the Bullhammer! Wade's eyes widen in disbelief as he turns around to the Pele Kick from Styles, Ambrose catching him with Dirty Deeds as he stumbles around! The Texas crowd cheers on the two fan favorites, the Intercontinental and United States Champion standing tall over their respective rivals, giving each other a nod of approval. They raise each other's arms up as well as Thursday Night Smackdown comes to a conclusion.

- According to multiple reports, WWE is finalizing their plans for their top matches at WrestleMania 31. One of the only matches that is all but confirmed is The Undertaker versus Sting, which was set up by Sting's surprise WWE debut the night after WrestleMania XXX. On a side note, it isn't considered the last time we'll see either man, but they will obviously be limited.

- There has been some consideration that the WWE has entertained the idea of bringing back the brand split in 2015. Although the company has been ran fine with one roster, with Smackdown being more of a feature show for lower-tier feuds, the company feels they could potentially build up certain superstars high up before presenting them on the 'A Show' with Monday Night Raw. Paul Heyman has been rumored as a possible candidate to take over Smackdown once again if this idea does indeed go through.

- Due to Dolph Ziggler's concussions, plans were altered from having Randy Orton face him at Summerslam. Instead, Chris Jericho, whom was expected to take time away following the August event regardless, offered up his spot in the feud with The Purge, thus Orton was 'targeted' by the group, asserting him in to the vacant spot that Y2J had held.

- Triple H, head of talent relations, is apparently really liking the direction of The Purge. While he feels Kevin Owens, the leader, is the clear star of the group he feels Sami Zayn and Solomon Crowe have a lot to offer. While they have been more in the shadow of Owens since their debut, winning the WWE Tag Team Championships and having consistent defenses and causing destruction is part of the structured build for them to be a legitimate threat alongside Owens.

- Diva's Champion AJ Lee has reportedly told some others that she has considered retirement in the near future. While she may decide to hang up the boots, there has apparently been some internal discussions for her to take another role without being an in-ring competitor, as she is currently the most popular diva in the company.