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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 17:55:45 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 17:56:05 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 17:56:24 GMT -5
April 24th, 2014 | Episode 002 | "#AntiAntiDiva"
SEGMENT: Immediately after the signature WWE intro, Paige was shown heading towards the locker room area, urging that the cameraman keep following her. ‘The Anti-Diva’ pushed the door open, the superstars present clearing the way since they knew who she was after. TJ Perkins was sitting down on a bench, using his Playstation Vita that Paige smacked out of his hand. He glanced up at her face that was almost beet-red due to anger. “Go ahead. Say everything you said on Twitter to my face,” Paige told TJP. He tried ignoring Paige, but no longer could once she shoved him off of the bench and into a locker. Finally, TJP stood up and gave Paige what she wanted. “You want me to say it?! Fine! You took away an opportunity that someone like me has been dying for and that’s not right because women don’t belong in the men’s division!” Paige then leveled TJP in the side of his head with her elbow, ‘The Anti-Diva’ continuing to beat him until officials arrived to restrain her.
SEGMENT: While Rob Naylor and Nigel McGuinness attempted to run down tonight’s card for SmackDown Live, Paige stormed the ring and demanded a microphone. She called out TJ Perkins, saying that she wasn’t going to let the referees stop her from making a statement for not only herself, but every single female in the world of professional wrestling. “You disrespectful, misogynistic pig! You’re not getting away that easily! Get out here now!” she screamed before throwing the microphone to the side. TJP then made his way out to the stage, bleeding right above his left eye. Paige met TJP midway on the ramp, the two exchanging strikes as SmackDown General Manager Kurt Angle soon came out, ordering the officials to separate them again. After getting Paige back into the ring, Angle tried calming her down, but all she wanted was the chance to make TJP pay for his choice of words against her. Angle reluctantly granted Paige a one-on-one match against TJP tonight, but he would take the necessary measures to make sure that order would be kept.
MATCH: A dysfunctional trio had no choice but to get along as Alexa Bliss teamed up with Becky Lynch and Allie to battle Kaitlyn and The Iconic Duo. As Allie tried to make the tag to Alexa, 'The Goddess' stepped off of the ring apron and headed up the entrance ramp. That act turned out to be a trap on her part, luring Kaitlyn towards her. Kaitlyn ran after Alexa, who caught her with a hard strike that knocked her out. Alexa ran back into the ring, taking the tag from Becky. Alexa ended up getting the victory after Twisted Bliss to Peyton Royce, Alexa standing tall with Becky and Allie, both of whom still unsure if they could fully trust her. Billie Kay carried Peyton towards the back in her arms, glancing down at Kaitlyn while shaking her head in disappointment.
SEGMENT: Backstage, Renee Young was standing by with Sami Zayn, asking why he would put his spot in the WWE Championship tournament on the line tonight against Bobby Roode? Zayn stated that him accepting this challenge isn't about proving to Bobby Roode or the WWE Universe that he deserves to be in the tournament, but rather to prove it to himself. "The last two memories of me in NXT involve me losing. I lost the NXT Championship, and then I lost the rematch against Finn Balor. I came to SmackDown Live prepared to start from the bottom. Instead, Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle are giving me the opportunity to become WWE Champion, something I don't know if I've earned just yet. If I can't beat Bobby Roode tonight, then I know this tournament wasn't meant for me... but, if I do win, then that's another step towards proving to myself that this is where I belong."
MATCH: After defeating Antonio Cesaro last week, Samoa Joe was able to put away Cesaro's tag team partner, Kassius Ohno. Just like last week, Ohno and Cesaro both showed respect to Joe post-match, only this time, they were interrupted by Baron Corbin. 'The Lone Wolf' told Joe that when they have their inevitable encounter, there wouldn't be any hand shakes or hugs afterwards. "And that's because you'll be lying on your back, counting the lights while I remind the world why I'm the top prospect here on SmackDown Live." Corbin's arrogant claims resulted in him receiving a Discus Big Boot from Ohno, an Uppercut from Cesaro, and an Enziguri from Joe. Corbin rolled out of the ring, Joe, Ohno and Cesaro standing their ground.
MATCH: Sami Zayn risked it all by putting his spot in the WWE Championship tournament on the line against the WWE's only free agent, Bobby Roode. After dodging a Helluva Kick, Roode rolled Zayn up with his feet on the rope, which would have resulted in him going to Backlash had the official not caught him. Roode argued with the referee, not noticing Zayn running towards him for another Helluva Kick! Zayn connected that time, covering Roode to get the victory and keep his spot in the WWE Championship tournament. "Sami Zayn is his biggest critic. He says that he has to prove to himself that he belongs in the chase for the WWE Championship. I watched Zayn every step of the way in NXT, and I can say without a single hint of doubt in my mind that he has nothing to prove to anyone, and that includes himself. Sami Zayn is ready to become WWE Champion, and Backlash is the moment he needs to seize," Rob Naylor said.
MATCH: In their SmackDown Live debut, PMA came up short against The Usos, but managed to win over the WWE Universe in their performance. Post-match, Jimmy and Jey continued their assault on Drake Younger and Solomon Crowe, the team set on breaking the leg of the latter until The Alpha Wolves made the save. The Usos retreated as Davey Richards and Eddie Edwards assisted Crowe to his feet, only to turn against him! The fans in Hershey, Pennsylvania watched on in shock as Edwards and Richards planted Crowe with a Brainbuster/Superkick combination in the ring before doing the same to Younger on the outside. The Alpha Wolves received a chorus of boos for their actions, Richards and Edwards ignoring the WWE Universe on their way up the entrance ramp.
SEGMENT: In the office of Shane McMahon, the SmackDown Live Commissioner met with all participants in the WWE Championship tournament, sans Paige. John Cena, Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes, CM Punk, Dean Ambrose, Sami Zayn, The Miz and IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion Tyler Breeze listened as Shane informed them that they will all be Lumberjacks in tonight's main event. "TJ Perkins made it clear how he feels about Paige being in the tournament at Backlash. If you guys feel the same way, then tonight is your chance to let the world know. It's disappointing for me - the guy who made the call to Paige in the tournament - to know that there are people out there who are lashing out against my decision for no reason other than her gender. I believe in free speech, so I won't punish anyone for disagreeing with me about Paige... but I can't say the same on her behalf."
MATCH: Rebounding from he and Adrian Neville's defeat last week against The Shining Stars, Tyson Kidd managed to put away Austin Aries following an Avalanche Tiger Driver, even without Neville by his side. During Kidd's celebration, Primo and Epico were shown watching a TV monitor when SmackDown Live General Manager Kurt Angle approached them. Angle informed The Shining Stars that they'll be in a rematch next week against Kidd and Neville, even if the latter doesn't re-emerge from wherever he's been since last week.
MATCH: In the main event, Paige collided with TJ Perkins while the WWE Championship tournament participants served as Lumberjacks. Every time TJP was thrown to the outside, no one made a move against him, Rob Naylor wondering if that meant they all agreed with his stance about Paige and her inclusion in the tournament. However, when Paige was at ringside, she wasn't attacked anyone, either, leading to Nigel McGuinness wondering if that meant they didn't have an issue with 'The Anti-Diva.' After Paige delivered a hard strike to TJP's head, the wound above his left eye re-opened, blood starting to stream down his face. "You stupid bitch!" he shouted at Paige just seconds before being struck with her Bicycle Knee known as The Antithesis! Paige covered TJP, defeating him once and for all. Afterwards, Paige took a microphone and challenged the other tournament participants to step up to her. " I know TJ can't be the only one who has a problem with a woman succeeding in a man's world. Come on. Grow some balls," she said. The tournament participants all glanced at each other, wondering if anybody really did share TJP's stance. That was when The Miz took a microphone and walked into the ring.
PROMO: "I'm not speaking on their behalf, Paige. This is just how I feel. I don't believe that you belong in this tournament, but hear me out. It has nothing to do with your gender. Who cares if you're a woman? You're a woman who made it to the final two in the Royal Rumble match. You've competed in WarGames. You were part of 2013's Match of the Year. You main evented WrestleMania and won. Your resume shows that you deserve to be here... but everything else about you says that you're not even close to being on the level of a WWE Champion. When I read your message on social media the day after WrestleMania, I laughed at the thought of you truly believing that your'e a capable athlete. Look at the people surrounding this ring right now. Some of the best competitors in the history of professional wrestling. They've perfected their craft, and so have you. It's just not the craft that deserves recognition and admiration. Nobody that you see here got to where they are by getting hit with light tubes, falling onto thumbtacks or jumping 20 feet through the air. You may be the best stuntwoman that this company has, but you're a C-level wrestler who shouldn't even be on the same match graphic as someone like me! When I got to the WWE, everybody laughed at me! No one gave me a chance to succeed because they didn't think I belonged here, and it took me until now to finally understand what it's like to be in their shoes and watch someone so undeserving get a shot at what I've been busting my ass for! There are more people out there like TJ Perkins, but you shouldn't pay any attention to what they're saying because anybody who attacks your gender is wrong! Nobody should discredit you for being a woman! They should discredit you for being bad at your job!"
SEGMENT: Paige had heard enough of Miz as she threw her fist towards him, 'The Awesome One' dodging the shot and delivering a Skull Crushing Finale! At that moment, John Cena, Cody Rhodes, Dean Ambrose and Sami Zayn all slid into the ring, standing up for Paige since they believed Miz was in the wrong. He got his point across, and physically attacking Paige - even if she was going to strike first - was just kicking her while she was down. Miz walked towards the backstage area, CM Punk and Tyler Breeze remaining at ringside while glaring at the rest of the tournament participants. After walking through the gorilla position, Miz was approached by Shane McMahon. "You want to be the one that takes Paige out of the title hunt? Fine. Kurt and I said we'd keep the bracket a secret until May 4th, but right now, I'll make an exception. It's you against Paige in the first round."
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 17:56:43 GMT -5
May 4th, 2014 | Izod Center in East Rutherford, NJ | WWE Network and Pay-Per-ViewOfficial Theme Song: "Renegade" by Hollywood Undead
 **Paige vs. Miz is confirmed as a first round match**
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 17:57:06 GMT -5
 
All I did was speak up about the truth, and I’m being punished for it.
Instead of talking things over like any rational adult would, Paige resorted to violence, which is the only thing she knows how to do. I have three stitches above my left eyebrow thanks to her.
“But you started it, TJ!!!!!!”
Again, all I did was offer my perspective on why Paige being in contention for the WWE Championship isn’t right. I never resorted to name-calling. I didn’t attack her personally. I just said why I think her dream is a joke. She assaulted me, and you all cheered her on. If THAT’S the kind of role model the WWE Universe wants, then this industry has more issues than just the glorification of women’s capabilities.
And it’s not just Paige who showed her immaturity over the last few days. Her fans came out in droves and have been cyber bullying me nonstop. It escalated to the point where people are threatening to come after me in person and try to cause bodily harm, or worse. I wonder where they got the idea that violence is the answer?
WWE took me off of the house show loop until further notice because of the threats. I don’t get paid if I don’t perform. They can say that this is for my safety, but I have no doubt they’re involved in all of this. If Shane, Kurt and the rest of management really cared about my safety, they’d allow me to wrestle and make my paychecks that I need to survive.
You people have taken away my livelihood from me. I didn’t have to sign with WWE after TNA was bought out. I could have taken dates with PWG, EVOLVE... the door to New Japan is still open for me. But I decided to come to WWE, cross it off my bucket list and hopefully make a difference in people’s lives the same way that my idols did for me. Instead, you’ve all ruined my life. My career could be over, and it’s all because I took a stand and did what was right.
This is the thanks I get after years of putting my body on the line for this business that I love.
Class act, WWE Universe. Class act. |
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 17:57:36 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 17:58:02 GMT -5
April 28th, 2014 | Episode 003 |"The Power of Love"
SEGMENT: WWE Women’s Champion AJ Lee opened Monday Night RAW by sitting on a chair in the ring, cross-legged as she told the fans in St. Louis a, “Story about a girl who just wanted to feel loved.” AJ said that there was once a young girl who was told that she could become whatever she wanted in life, but at the same time, was ridiculed for her dreams. “Her home life didn’t make her situation any easier. Surrounded by cynics that turned her into one herself, this girl had to scratch and claw her way to the top, and once she got there, reality kicked in. She spent her entire life pursuing one goal, only to realize that she overlooked her heart’s true desire: love. All she ever wanted was to be someone else’s everything. And any chance she had at that, she threw away because she was afraid of hurting herself even worse than she had already been. But eventually… somebody came along and changed her world. And even when this girl stood atop of the mountain…” AJ said while staring at the Women’s Title. “.. She decided that she’d be wiling to jump off of it in the name of love.” AJ was then interrupted by Emma, who put the pieces together between last week’s contract signing and tonight’s “story” from AJ to assume that the Women’s Champion was referring to her. “You can keep playing your mind games all you want, AJ, but nothing is going to change your fate this Saturday at No Mercy,” Emma said. AJ glanced up at Emma while the challenger continued to berate her. “You don’t give a damn about love and everybody here can see right through your act! The only thing that matters to you is the only thing that matters to me: the WWE Women’s Championship!” AJ never bothered responding to Emma, continuing to gaze endlessly at her. Emma tried kicking AJ in the side of her head, but AJ caught her foot in time. AJ kept her grip on Emma’s foot while she stood up, launching herself at her number one contender and proceeding to bite her bottom lip, just like she did to Alexa Bliss at WrestleMania. Emma pushed AJ away, rolling to the outside of the ring. Emma pressed her index finger against her lip, gathering a line of blood. She looked up and saw AJ sticking her head out of the ring, a smile on her face with Emma’s blood on her own lips. The number one contender for the Women’s Title slowly backed up the entrance ramp, the mind games that she spoke out against clearly getting to her ahead of both tonight’s Intergender Tag Team match, and the Women’s Title match this Saturday night at No Mercy.
MATCH: The opening contest between Big E and one-half of the WWE Tag Team Champions, Pentagon, ended in a disqualification after Bray Wyatt attacked the New Day member. Kofi Kingston evened the odds, but Wyatt and Pentagon were able to get the upper-hand, or at least momentarily before a returning Xavier Woods hit the ring through the audience with a lead pipe decorated with a unicorn horn. Woods used his one good arm to strike both Wyatt and Pentagon with the lead pipe, forcing The Wyatt Tribe to retreat. Woods looked underneath the ring and found Francesca before telling The Wyatt Tribe that if their biggest mistake was not keeping him down when Pentagon snapped his arm three weeks ago. “The New Day is alive and well! And this Saturday at No Mercy, your boys will become two-time W! W! E! World! Tag! Team! Champions!” “Because… New! Day rocks! New! Day rocks! New! Day rocks!”
SEGMENT: As Roman Reigns was making his way down to the ring, he decided to make a stop into the office of RAW General Manager, Dario Cueto. 'The One Man Army' said that he knows Dario has something to do with the fact that he could not find a partner for his tag team match up next against Matanza Cueto and Bobby Roode. Dario said that was because he made it clear to the entire roster that if any of them agreed to be Reigns' partner, they wouldn't be on his roster anymore. Reigns wasn't fazed by Dario's actions, saying that he has no problem running through both Matanza and Roode on his own. "I'll do it tonight, and then I'll do it again Saturday at No Mercy. Believe that."
MATCH: Roman Reigns ended up in a 2-on-1 scenario against his two No Mercy opponents on Saturday, Matanza Cueto and Bobby Roode. After Reigns Superman Punched Matanza off of the ring apron, he and Roode took each other out with simultaneous Clotheslines. The two men were down when Heath Slater ran out to ringside, 'The One Man Band' taking his shirt off while holding his hand out for a tag. Reigns, who was in a daze at that moment, unintentionally backed against his corner, allowing Slater to tag himself in. "Dario said if anyone agreed to be Reigns' partner, they wouldn't be part of the RAW roster anymore. Slater can't be punished because he's not even on the roster to begin with!" Mauro Ranallo stated. Slater took Roode down with a Tornado DDT before rising to his feet, commencing his air guitar taunt without realizing that Matanza had tagged himself in. Matanza grabbed Slater, planting him onto the canvas with The Wrath of the Gods for the victory. Matanza stood tall in the ring while looking to both his left and right side to see his No Mercy opponents down and out, a scene he looks to recreate with his hands on Saturday at No Mercy.
MATCH: After Enzo Amore was unable to defeat Braun Strowman last week, Big Cass tried his luck tonight against 'The Monster Among Men.' Strowman managed to defeat Cass with the Running Powerslam. Momentarily after the closing bell, Amore ascended to the top rope, leaping off into the arms of Strowman. Amore was given a Running Powerslam of his own, Strowman standing tall over both he and Cass before exiting the ring.
SEGMENT: At this time, Michael Bennett and Maria Kanellis held their "Power of Love Celebration" ahead of Bennett's United States Championship match against Daniel Bryan this Saturday night at No Mercy. Maria stated that a confrontation with Bryan is one that has been a long time coming for the both of them. "Over a year ago, Michael and I began negotiations with WWE. We were ready to pack up our lives and begin a new journey together on the main roster. I say the main roster because that is what was promised to us initially. Once we were given our contracts to sign, 'NXT' was the label placed at the top of the first page. If Bryan wants to deny the truth, he can do so for the rest of time, but we know what really happened. In my first run with WWE, The Bella Twins became jealous and bitter towards me because of my success, and remind me. Who happens to be a Bella? Bryan's wife, Brie. Together, they plotted against my husband and I and tried to derail our careers. Fate has brought Michael Bennett and Daniel Bryan into this ring on Saturday at No Mercy, and that is where we will extract our revenge against Bryan and Brie through something that they know nothing about: The Power of Love!" Bryan then interrupted Bennett and Maria's celebration, choosing to immediately go after his No Mercy opponent. Bryan struck Bennett repeatedly in a corner before tried choking him out. Bryan staggered into the center of the ring with Maria on his back, Bennett using that opening to chop block him behind his right knee. Bennett delivered a Samoan Driver to Bryan before picking up the United States Championship, raising it above his head for the second week in a row.
MATCH: In a rematch from the WrestleMania Kickoff Show, Wrestling Royalty shocked the WWE Universe by defeating The Revival, handing Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder their first loss thus far on the main roster. Ted DiBiase and Joe Hennig raised each other's arms on the stage, the longest-reigning WWE Tag Team Champions in history instantly becoming the favorites in the Fatal Four Way Number One Contenders match in five days at No Mercy.
MATCH: Before competing against Randy Orton in a No Holds Barred match at No Mercy, Kevin Owens was granted a warm up bout against R-Truth with the same stipulation that he'll have on Saturday. Owens set up two steel chairs in the center of the ring, sending Truth crashing onto them with a Pop Up Powerbomb to get the victory. Before Owens could inflict damage to Truth post-match, St. Louis' own 'Viper' made the save. Owens failed to connect with a chair shot to Orton, 'The Prizefighter' nearly falling victim to an RKO. Owens, however, shoved Orton away before exiting the ring, choosing to back out of the fight, at least until Saturday when he'll have no choice but to meet Orton in a No Holds Barred match at No Mercy.
SEGMENT: Backstage, Cathy Kelley was standing by with Adam Cole. After Cole entered the picture, Cathy asked what he believes is next for him here on Monday Night RAW? "... You want to know where I go from here? Watch No Mercy on Saturday and maybe you'll get a clue," Cole said before leaving the quick interview.
CARD RUNDOWN: Just announced for the No Mercy Kickoff Show, Enzo Amore and Big Cass will challenge Braun Strowman in a Handicap match. Onto the main card, Wrestling Royalty, The Revival, The Addiction, and Chris Jericho & Christian collide in a Fatal Four Way match for the number one contendership to the WWE Tag Team Championships. Roman Reigns, Matanza Cueto and Bobby Roode meet in a Triple Threat match. Randy Orton battles Kevin Owens in a No Holds Barred match. Daniel Bryan defends the United States Championship against Michael Bennett. The New Day invoke their rematch clause against The Wyatt Tribe for the WWE Tag Team Championships. Finn Balor makes his Pay-Per-View debut against Seth Rollins. AJ Lee puts the WWE Women's Championship on the line against the only two-time NXT Women's Champion in history, Emma. And in the main event, Derrick Bateman and AJ Styles battle it out for the Universal Championship. No Mercy is this Saturday night, live on Pay-Per-View and the WWE Network.
MATCH: Originally scheduled to team up with AJ Styles, WWE Women's Champion AJ Lee enlisted the aid of Finn Balor instead in the main event against Emma and the Universal Champion, Derrick Bateman. The match was thrown out of the window towards the end, having no real conclusion after the official was taken out with a Running Dropkick from Balor, inadvertently. It was then when Seth Rollins ran down to the ring, exchanging strikes with Balor in a brawl that spilled into the audience. At ringside, Emma and AJ couldn't keep their emotions in check, the two fighting all the way up the entrance ramp and towards the backstage area. In the ring, Bateman rose to his feet, only for his No Mercy opponent, AJ Styles, to rush the squared circle through the crowd. Styles, who was unable to be cleared for action tonight due to the condition of his back, took out 'The God of the New Era' with a Phenomenal Forearm! Styles headed out to ringside, grabbing the Universal Championship before raising it over Bateman's fallen carcass. Will Styles redeem himself after failing to defeat The Undertaker at WrestleMania, or will the reign of Bateman as Universal Champion continue past Saturday at No Mercy?
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:11:14 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:11:42 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:12:46 GMT -5
April 30th, 2014 | Episode 003 | "Ember Sparks a Fire"
SEGMENT: Kicking off NXT was the arrival of the new NXT Champion, Kyle O'Reilly, who captured the gold in Atlanta against Finn Balor two weeks ago. O'Reilly brought with him the individual he referred to as his coach, independent star Bobby Fish. After introducing himself to the NXT Universe, Fish said that he saw the potential in O'Reilly to become the face of NXT before anyone else did. "Sure, you all showed your support to him when he walked through the doors, but what about after that? Each and every single one of you abandoned Kyle O'Reilly! You chose to chant 'Ole!' and 'Ten!' and lose your composures at the sight of a grown man crawling around in paint! A true ring general stood before the NXT Universe, and you all turned your backs on him. And look where that got all you! Kyle O'Reilly is right where he belongs at the top of the food chain as the NXT Champion!" O'Reilly thanked Fish for his words before telling the NXT Universe that it was his coach who showed him what needed to be done in order to succeed. "Just after TakeOver: R Evolution, I gave Bobby Fish a call and asked for his advice because there didn't look like there was a light waiting for me at the end of the tunnel the NXT Universe forced me into. And the second he said the words, 'Screw them,' something clicked in my head. None of you cared about me anymore, so why should I care about you? Since that conversation, I am undefeated in NXT! I put away Tye Dillinger in New Orleans, and then in Atlanta... it finally happened." O'Reilly raised the NXT Championship and dared anyone in the running to challenge him at TakeOver: Chicago to take away what he not only earned, but deserves.
MATCH: The first step towards finding Kyle O'Reilly's Chicago challenger was taken when NXT Tag Team Champion Drew McIntyre defeated Uhaa Nation following the Future Shock DDT. McIntyre was joined by Jinder Mahal in the ring post-match, who will have his shot at entering the Fatal Four Way Number One Contenders match when he takens on Uhaa's partner, Ricochet, in two weeks.
SEGMENT: Backstage. NXT General Manager Portia Perez was shown in her office when NXT Women's Champion Nicole Matthews walked in. Nicole, who happened to be Portia's best friend, asked the General Manager why she decided to put her in a series of singles matches to find her next challenger? "I understand the point of testing out these new girls, but what's the purpose of having me wear out my body before TakeOver: Chicago?" Portia said that she could easily have had the three top contenders compete for a shot in Chicago, but since they're all newcomers, the NXT Universe wants to see for themselves what they're capable of against the champion. When Nicole asked Portia who her opponent was tonight, she was given her answer: Ember Moon.
MATCH: In their first match post-TakeOver: New Orleans, American Alpha managed to put away The Lucha Dragons following a devastating Grand Amplitude to Kalisto. "Neither Jason Jordan nor Chad Gable were pinned in New Orleans. In their minds, Drew McIntyre and Jinder Mahal are not the rightful NXT Tag Team Champions until they can put away American Alpha," Michael Schiavello said on commentary.
MUSIC CREDIT: A special thanks was given to "Better Day" by Islander, one of the official theme songs for NXT TakeOver: Chicago. "Better Day" is off of the album Power Under Control, and is available now on iTunes and Spotify.
SEGMENT: As CJ Parker was making his entrance for a one-on-one match, 'The Moonchild' was ambushed from behind by SAnitY. Eric Young, Tommaso Ciampa, Jimmy Havoc and Darby Allin assaulted Parker while Nikki Cross looked on from the top of the announce table. Young shouted orders while Havoc and Allin kept Parker's right leg against the steel steps, Ciampa smashing it with the top portion! Parker held his leg while screaming in agony with his face pressed against the floor. SAnitY tried to recreate the scene with Parker's other leg, but Ricochet and Uhaa Nation ran down to ringside. SAnitY bolted out of the Full Sail Arena, Ricochet and Uhaa looking after Parker to make sure he was safe while the medical team tended to him.
ANNOUNCEMENT: Next week, Paul Heyman will introduce his newest client to the NXT Universe.
MATCH: In a non-title match intended to "test her," Ember Moon ended up shocking the entire world by defeating Nicole Matthews with The Eclipse. "In only her second match here on NXT, Ember Moon just pinned the Women's Champion!" Tom Phillips said over the ecstatic Full Sail audience. Nicole rolled to the outside, the official handing her back the NXT Women's Title while she was forced to look on at Ember celebrate the biggest victory of her career. Nicole will still have to take on Nikki Cross and Toni Storm in the coming weeks, but it would appear that Ember has guaranteed herself a future opportunity at the NXT Women's Championship. |
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:13:08 GMT -5
April 30th, 2014 | Episode 003 | "Tranquilo"
MATCH: 'The Villain' and 'Speedball' collided in the opening contest of the Cruiserweight Classic's third week as Marty Scurll took on Mike Bailey. After Scurll broke the fingers of Bailey during a Knife Edge Chop attempt, Bailey had to resort to using his feet for any offensive maneuver. During a series of kicks from Bailey, Scurll actually grabbed his right foot and proceeded to break two of his toes! Bailey dropped to one leg, giving Scurll the opening he needed to lock in the Crossface Chickenwing and get the submission victory. Scurll wouldn't have to wait long to find out his second round opponent.MATCH: Following the same footsteps in this tournament as his Motor City Machine Guns partner, Chris Sabin moved on in the bracket after defeating Sean Maluta with the Cradle Shock. Sabin should have been watching the previous match carefully since it'll be himself against Marty Scurll in the second round.MATCH: Gran Metalik's hopes of making it to the finals of the Cruiserweight Classic remained alive and well after putting away Alejandro Saez with the Metalik Driver. However, awaiting him in the second round will be one of the favorites to win it all. 'The Cleaner' Kenny Omega.MATCH: Andrade 'Cien' Almas, who was handpicked for this tournament by the reigning Universal Champion Derrick Bateman, competed in what could be considered the Match of the Tournament thus far against Mustafa Ali. Despite being relatively unknown to the masses, Ali made a name for himself in this one performance. As he was attempting an unorthodox version of the 450 Splash, Almas rolled out of harm's way. Ali backed against a corner, Almas seizing that moment and driving his knees into his face! Almas brought the dazed Ali back to his feet for Destino, which was enough to keep Ali down for the three count. Almas will now meet Alex Shelley in the second round as the Cruiserweight Classic continues.PROMO: Next week, the first round of the Cruiserweight Classic concludes with the following matches: Johnny Gargano vs. Ariya Davari; Noam Dar vs. Harv Sihra, King Cuerno vs. Ho Ho Lun; and in the main event, Kota Ibushi vs. Will Ospreay. |
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:14:06 GMT -5
May 1st, 2014 | Episode 003 | "Empty Throne"
SEGMENT: The final episode of SmackDown Live before Backlash on Sunday kicked off with the entire women's division in the ring. Alexa Bliss, Kaitlyn, Allie, Becky Lynch, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce stood before SmackDown Live Commissioner, Shane McMahon, who gave a speech about the progression of women's wrestling over the last few years while glaring down at a stand with a blue cloth over it. "The women's division of Team Blue deserves its own prize to compete for and show the entire world why SmackDown Live is the place to be for female competitors. That's why it is my honor to announce that at Judgment Day on May 31st, in the main event, we will crown the first-ever SmackDown Women's Champion!" Shane removed the cloth to reveal the white and blue championship that all of the superstars in the ring marveled at. Before Shane left, The Iconic Duo stopped him and said that while the SmackDown Women's Title is prestigious and will "obviously be theirs," they want to make an example out of a particular superstar tonight. "Someone who we're sure thinks that she's going to leave Judgment Day with that title," Peyton said to Alexa's face, 'Little Miss Bliss' not backing down from either member of The Iconic Duo. Billie said that last week, Alexa might have been able to defeat them in tag team action, but there's no possible way she could beat them on her own. Shane was hesitant to accept the idea of a Handicap match, but Alexa answered the challenge on her own behalf. Tonight, The Iconic Duo look for revenge against Alexa in 2-on-1 Handicap match.
MATCH: Attempting to get even for last week's shenanigans, Baron Corbin met Antonio Cesaro one-on-one, the latter having both Samoa Joe and Kassius Ohno in his corner. Towards the end of the contest, The Usos hit the ringside area and went after Joe and Ohno, the distraction allowing Corbin the opening to deliver The End of Days for the win. Corbin and The Usos headed up the entrance ramp, 'The Lone Wolf' going against his own moniker to enlist aid in the battle against Joe, Cesaro and Ohno.
MATCH: The new attitude of The Alpha Wolves paved their way to victory against Bo Rotundo and Mojo Rawley. Post-match, Renee Young interviewed Davey Richards and Eddie Edwards, looking for answers as to why their brutally assaulted PMA last week. Richards stated that after the Best of Seven Series against The New Day, it felt as if the WWE Universe just forgot about The Alpha Wolves altogether. "At our first WrestleMania, we had to share the ring with nearly 30 other superstars. We were taken in the Supplemental Draft. Did the world just forget the fact that in our NXT debut, we became the NXT Tag Team Champions? Not only that, but in our first shot at the WWE Tag Team Championships, we won without even being signed to the main roster! What have PMA ever done?! Have their arms broken by Pentagon?! Fail at every opportunity they've ever received? Do you people actually think that Drake Younger and Solomon Crowe, two guys who learned how to smash light tubes over their heads before a wristlock, are better than us?!?" The Alpha Wolves declared war on the WWE Universe for abandoning them in favor of PMA.
SEGMENT: At this time, SmackDown Live General Manager Kurt Angle held a Championship Plate Ceremony in the ring, bringing out the participants in the WWE Championship tournament at Backlash one by one. When the superstars stepped into the ring, they were shown what the WWE Title looks like with their custom plates on the strap, giving them an extra bit of motivation ahead of Sunday. For superstars like John Cena, CM Pun, The Miz and Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes, the ceremony served as a reminder that at one point, they stood atop of the mountain as WWE Champion, and in three days, they have the opportunity to get back there. Dean Ambrose was the first superstar to approach the WWE Championship who has never held the gold before. 'The Lunatic Fringe' was on the cusp of achieving his championship dreams when he won Manifest Destiny back in November, but failed to capitalize on his title shot at the Royal Rumble. After Ambrose left, Sami Zayn walked down to the squared circle. Zayn said it himself last week that he's unsure if he even deserves to be in this tournament. He left NXT with back-to-back TakeOver losses. Shane and Angle gave him the opportunity to become WWE Champion, and even if he thinks he may not deserve this, he needs to make the most of Backlash because who knows when his next chance will arrive? Chants of "Let's go, Sami" engulfed the atmosphere in Kansas City as Zayn looked around before glancing at Angle, who said that he believes in him. Zayn's exit was accompanied by Tyler Breeze's arrival, the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion taking a selfie with the WWE Championship that featured his side plates. Breeze has already shown that when given an opportunity, he can seize it. He did so last year when he won the NXT Championship. He did it against on January 4th in the Tokyo Dome by capturing the Jr. Heavyweight Title. Breeze may be seen as the least likely candidate to become WWE Champion, but don't count 'Prince Pretty' out of anything. Finally, Paige made her way down to the ring. Receiving the loudest ovation of the segment, 'The Anti-Diva' was the only superstar to grab the WWE Championship and carry it in her arms. Never before has a woman captured the WWE Championship. The idea seemed inconceivable, and to many, it still is. Paige has the chance to make history on Sunday in more than one way. Along with being the first-ever female WWE Champion, she would be the youngest person to ever win the gold at 21 years of age. As Paige stared deeply into the title, Bobby Roode's theme sounded. 'The Glorious One' was still irate over being left out of the tournament, even though he had his chance to qualify for it last week against Zayn. "How the hell does any sensible brand leave a talent like Bobby Roode out of the running to become WWE Champion, but someone like you is in it?!" Roode shouted at Paige before she leveled him in the face with the title. After her encounter last week against TJ Perkins, Paige had heard enough of her naysayers telling her that she doesn't belong in the WWE Championship tournament. She made it to the final two of the Royal Rumble match. She won in the main event of WrestleMania. She's earned this opportunity, and on Sunday, the entire world will be watching as she looks to become WWE Champion. While Paige raised the title, her first round opponent, The Miz, stepped out onto the stage. 'The Anti-Diva' and 'The Awesome One' stared off as Paige continued to hold the championship that SmackDown Live's top eight superstars will battle for on Sunday. Who will leave the Izod Center as the new WWE Champion?
MATCH: While Alexa Bliss and The Iconic Duo are scheduled to meet in the main event, Kaitlyn and Allie did battle one-on-one with Becky Lynch watching from ringside. After a hellacious Spear, Kaitlyn covered Allie to get the victory. Post-match, Becky didn't allow Kaitlyn to inflict any further damage, chasing 'The Hybrid Superstar' out of the ring.
SEGMENT: Backstage, Billie Kay was shown watching a TV monitor, laughing to herself at the fact that one of her Backlash opponents, Allie, just suffered defeat. Peyton Royce then approached Billie from behind, wrapping her arms around her 'Iconic Life Partner.' "Guess what I've been seeing on social media?" Peyton said to Billie before telling her that the WWE Universe actually believes the SmackDown Women's Championship match at Judgment Day is going to cause friction between them. "That's because they don't understand what it's like to be forever in debt to someone else," Billie stated. "If one of us wins, we both win. That's how it's always been, and that's how it'll always be. No championship will ever come between us. At Judgment Day. we will become the first-ever SmackDown Women's Champion."
MATCH: Tyson Kidd and Adrian Neville had their shot at revenge against The Shining Stars, although Neville was initially absent. After Kidd connected with a Sick Kick to Primo, a darker, remixed version of Neville's theme hit. 'The Man That Gravity Forgot' walked down to the ring with all-black gear, a beard and disheveled hair. Neville stepped onto the ring apron, extending his hand out of for the tag. After being tagged in, Neville laid waist to The Shining Stars on his own, displaying a more vicious attitude through his performance. Neville put Primo away with The Red Arrow, standing tall as Kidd looked on in confusion. Two weeks ago, Neville stated that something needed to change, and it would appear that he was referring to himself.
CARD RUNDOWN: Just announced for the Backlash Kickoff Show, Samoa Joe will team up with Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno to take on Baron Corbin and The Usos in a Six Man Tag Team match. Alexa Bliss and Kaitlyn settle their score in a one-on-one match. The Iconic Duo battle the team of Becky Lynch and Allie. And throughout the night, an eight superstar tournament to crown a new WWE Champion will be held. John Cena, CM Punk, Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes, The Miz, Dean Ambrose, Sami Zayn, IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion Tyler Breeze and Paige. Who will become the brand new WWE Champion? Backlash is live this Sunday on Pay-Per-View and the WWE Network.
MATCH: Alexa Bliss' Handicap contest against The Iconic Duo ended in anarchy when Kaitlyn caused a disqualification outcome with a Spear to her Backlash opponent. Kaitlyn, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce continued their assault on Alexa until Becky Lynch and Allie made the unlikely save, resulting in an all-out brawl. Kaitlyn and The Iconic Duo were forced to retreat while Becky and Allie actually protected Alexa. At that moment, SmackDown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon made his way out to the stage. "I almost forgot about something earlier. There was one more thing I needed to say about the SmackDown Women's Championship match at Judgment Day..." Shane then left to the backstage area while the lights dimmed in the arena. On the titantron, a video package was shown featuring highlights of one of professional wrestling's most grueling match types, the Elimination Chamber. For the first time ever, six women will step into the confines of the Chamber, and the winner will be able to call themselves the inaugural SmackDown Women's Champion.
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:14:31 GMT -5
KICKOFF: Despite being put into action against two superstars in a Handicap match, Braun Strowman was able to remain undefeated after pinning Enzo Amore and Big Cass at the same time following a Running Powerslam that sent Amore crashing onto the body of his fallen tag team partner.
INTRO: The opening video package commenced with the official theme song for No Mercy, "Shadows Inside" by Miss May I. The video focused on the fact that tonight, a plethora of new talent on Monday Night RAW will be making their in-ring Pay-Per-View debuts. For the first time on the grand stage, Michael Bennett, The Addiction, Pentagon, Emma and Finn Balor will have the opportunity to leave their marks on the WWE Universe. "Embrace the change, and then you will find, new light will break, the shadows inside." The video then shifted the attention over to the triple main event. In the first of the three contests, 'The Architect' Seth Rollins will do battle for the first time against 'The Demon' Finn Balor. Then, AJ Lee defends the WWE Women's Championship against the superstar she has spent the last two weeks playing mind games with, Emma. Lastly, in the main event, the rivalry between Derrick Bateman and AJ Styles will see its newest chapter be written when the two meet for the Universal Championship. 'The New Era' fully commences tonight in the first single-branded Pay-Per-View following the brand extension. Welcome to No Mercy.
UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP: No Mercy kicked off with the opportunity of a lifetime for Michael Bennett as the beholder of 'The Power of Love' had his first opportunity at championship gold. Bennett and his wife, Maria Kanellis, made their way down to the ring, the fans in the Izod Center not responding kindly to either of them. When Daniel Bryan's entrance music sounded, the polar opposite reaction could be heard for the defending United States Championship. 'The Yes Movement' was in full effect as the WWE Universe rallied behind him. Bryan walked out onto the stage, but gave a signal towards the curtain. A few seconds later, Bryan's wife, Brie Bella, made her way into the Izod Center. Brie, who was referenced by Maria last Monday as one of the individuals responsible for Bennett and herself being sent to NXT instead of the main roster over a year ago. With their respective wives supporting them, Bryan and Bennett were ready to find out who would be leaving No Mercy as the United States Champion.
Bryan started off the match by nearly applying the Yes Lock, Bennett having to retreat to the outside after freeing himself. Bryan launched himself through the ropes with a Suicide Dive, Bennett being rammed into the barricade. Bryan rolled Bennett back into the ring for a near-fall before spending the next few minutes trading momentum with one of RAW's draft picks from NXT. As Bryan kicked Bennett in the chest repeatedly, Maria stepped onto the ring apron to try to create a distraction. That resulted in Brie sliding into the ring, charging her shoulder into Maria's mid-section to knock her down. Brie then ran the ropes, delivering a Suicide Dive onto Maria! "Like husband, like wife!" Corey Graves exclaimed on commentary. However, Bryan was then rolled up by Bennett, who used a handful of tights to get as close of a near-fall as anyone possibly could. Bryan got to his feet and charged towards Bennett, who sidestepped him. Bryan inadvertently charged himself sternum-first into the top turnbuckle, Bennett capitalizing by delivering the Samoan Driver that had successfully laid out the defending champion for two weeks in a row! "Bennett's gonna do it! The upset of the century!" Mauro Ranallo shouted into his headset while the fans in New Jersey gasped. Bennett got the cover, but Bryan was able to get a shoulder up at two! "Yes!" chants engulfed the atmosphere as Bennett stood on his knees in disbelief at the fact that Bryan managed to kick out of his finisher. Bennett tried for the Samoan Driver once again, Bryan sliding out of his grasp. Bryan planted Bennett onto the back of his head with a Dragon Suplex! When Bennett stirred back up to his feet in a daze, he was immediately hit with a Busaiku Knee! Instead of going for the cover, Bryan decided to cinch in the Yes Lock, Bennett having no choice but to submit! DANIEL BRYAN IS STILL THE UNITED STATES CHAMPION!
AFTERMATH: Daniel Bryan was handed back the United States Championship while Brie Bella joined him in the ring, the two performing the "Yes!" chants with every WWE Universe member that packed the Izod Center on this Saturday night. "Take nothing away from Michael Bennett. A lot of people didn't expect him to even be competing for a championship on his first Pay-Per-View. Bennett proved that 'The Power of Love' is indeed magical, and sooner or later, he'll have his shining moment," Corey Graves said. Suddenly, Adam Cole slid into the ring through the audience, striking Bryan with a Superkick to the back of his head! Cole stood over Bryan before grabbing the United States Championship, raising it over Bryan's fallen carcass while shouting at him. Cole, who said on RAW last week that he would be making a statement here tonight, began walking towards Brie slowly, cornering her as she shielded herself with her arms. Cole didn't lay a finger on her, but instead blew a kiss at her before raising his arms and screaming, "Adam Cole, bay bay!" Cole exited the ring while Brie tended to her fallen husband, Cole making it clear that he's not out of the championship picture just yet and is going to be gunning for Bryan's United States Title.
SEGMENT: Backstage, Emma was shown in her locker room with the door barricaded while she cut a promo from a handheld camera. The number one contender for the WWE Women's Championship directed her message at AJ Lee, saying that her mind games will never work on her. "You're not in love with me. You're in love with yourself and that title that I am going to take away from you tonight. Say goodbye to everything that you love, 'Black Widow.' In less than two hours, I prove to you and the entire world that it's all. About. Me."
FATAL FOUR WAY TAG TEAM MATCH: RAW's top four tag teams not involved in tonight's championship match finally had their date with the number one contenders spot on the line. The Revival, Wrestling Royalty, The Addiction, and Chris Jericho and Christian. The contest started with Scott Dawson, Joe Hennig, Christopher Daniels and Chris Jericho as the legal men. Hennig and Dawson immediately went after one another, while Daniels and Jericho did the same. When Hennig and Dawson's brawl spilled to the outside, Daniels had his Angel's Wings attempt countered into the Walls of Jericho. Instead of trying to reach for the ropes, Daniels tried reaching out for Frankie Kazarian to make the tag. Daniels was successful, Kazarian springboarding into action with a Clothesline to the back of Jericho's head. Once back in the ring, Hennig and Dawson both tagged in their respective partners, Ted DiBiase and Dash Wilder resuming the battle that their allies started.
As Jericho was attempting to apply the Walls of Jericho onto Kazarian, 'Y2J' was kicked away into a corner. Jericho charged towards Kazarian, only to be taken down with a C4! Kazarian got the cover that Dawson was able to break up. Dawson brought Jericho to his feet, delivering a huge strike to the jaw that caused Jericho to fall back into his own corner, Christian tagging himself in. Dawson held his own against all three of his opponents before he was Dropkicked at once by all of them. Christian then poked DiBiase in the eye before sending Dawson shoulder-first into the steel ring post. Christian tried for the Killswitch to Dawson, only for Dash to intervene. The Revival went for The Shatter Machine to 'Captain Charisma,' but Wrestling Royalty managed to pull Dash out from underneath the bottom rope. Dawson Flapjacked Christian on his own before realizing that his partner was down and out. Dawson slid out to ringside, where he was able to avoid a Clothesline from Hennig, but not DiBiase's Spinebuster onto the floor. In the ring, Kazarian tried covering Christian, only for Wrestling Royalty to stop him. DiBiase hoisted Kazarian onto his shoulders while Hennig ascended to the top rope for a Doomsday Device! DiBiase covered Kazarian to get the victory and seal one more title opportunity for Wrestling Royalty. WRESTLING ROYALTY ARE THE NEW NUMBER ONE CONTENDERS!
AFTERMATH: Ready to call it a career as a team at the Slammy Awards, Wrestling Royalty had finally earned what they've been looking for ever since TLC. Another opportunity at the WWE Tag Team Championships that they hold the record for with the longest reign in history. "It's been over a year since DiBiase and Hennig held those championships. They've reached the point where they've been without the titles for longer than they had them," Corey Graves stated. However, that can all change now. At some point in the near-future, Wrestling Royalty will have their date with destiny against either The Wyatt Tribe or The New Day.
ADVERTISEMENT: A promo was shown for Bad Blood, RAW's next Pay-Per-View, live Sunday June 1st, only on Pay-Per-View and the WWE Network.
TRIPLE THREAT MATCH: In his first Pay-Per-View outing as WWE's only free agent, Bobby Roode was ready to make No Mercy 'Glorious' in his bout against two of Monday Night RAW's mastodons in the form of Roman Reigns and Matanza Cueto. After Roode stepped into the ring, Reigns made his entrance to a mostly positive reaction from the WWE Universe. 'The One Man Army' stood across from Roode, the two staring each other down before the final piece of the Triple Threat match made his presence. When Matanza walked out onto the stage, RAW General Manager Dario Cueto opened the door to his office, raising the same key that he had when 'The Monster' made his debut two months ago. Matanza gave an approving nod to Dario before heading down to the ring.
Reigns and Matanza immediately went after each other at the sound of the bell, Roode leaning back against a corner while watching. After Matanza tossed Reigns to the outside, he charged into Roode with a Splash! Matanza sent Roode flying with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex before Reigns jumped back into the squared circle, trying for a Superman Punch. Matanza caught him and was able to throw him into the corner with another Belly-to-Belly! Roode was able to get his feet up when Matanza came charging at him again, Reigns trying to take him down with a Clothesline. Reigns and Roode had to work together to get Matanza off of his feet before turning their attention back onto one another. After Reigns planted Roode with a Samoan Drop, Matanza re-entered the ring, this time with a steel chair that was legal under Triple Threat rules. "The last thing that someone like Matanza needs in his hands is a freakin' steel chair!" Corey Graves exclaimed on commentary. Matanza hit Reigns so hard in his back with the chair, he sent 'The One Man Army' over the top rope. Matanza and Reigns battled up the entrance ramp before taking their fight into Dario Cueto's office. The RAW General Manager backed against a wall, shouting at Matanza to try to help give him the upper-hand. After a few hard strikes to Matanza, Reigns grabbed the mysterious bull statue from Dario's desk. Reigns backed up and went to club Matanza in the head with it, but 'The Monster' got a hold of Reigns and slammed him through Dario's desk! Matanza exited the office and returned to the ring, Roode striking him in the mid-section with the steel chair from earlier. Roode tried for a Glorious DDT, only for Matanza to throw him forward. Matanza continued to work over Roode while Reigns emerged from the office, crawling towards the ring with whatever momentum he had left. After Roode was caught in position for The Wrath of Gods after a failed, uncharacteristic attempt at a Crossbody, Reigns rolled into the ring and Speared Matanza! Roode was able to capitalize and hit Reigns with the Glorious DDT, covering him to get the win for himself after a helacious battle. BOBBY ROODE IS VICTORIOUS!
AFTERMATH: "The only free agent in WWE has done it again! Give me a hallelujah, Ranallo!" shouted a very excited Corey Graves as Bobby Roode exited the ring to have his arm raised in victory, not wanting to take a chance and stick around long enough for either Roman Reigns or Matanza Cueto to get back to their feet. In a rivalry that he had arguably no business getting himself involved in, Roode managed to put away two of the most destructive forces on Monday Night RAW to get back on track after not having things go according to his plan since WrestleMania. Simply put, Roode was proven once again why he is 'Glorious.'
SEGMENT: Backstage, AJ Styles was shown in the locker room area, putting on his gloves as he gets set for his Universal Championship match tonight against Derrick Bateman. After failing to end The Undertaker's undefeated streak at WrestleMania last month, 'The Phenomenal One' needs a victory more than ever to stay on top of the mountain in WWE. Is tonight the end of the line for 'The God of The New Era' and his championship reign?
SEGMENT: As Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves attempted to crapthe focus of the event onto the upcoming match-up, the entrance music of Batista sounded, taking the entire WWE Universe off guard like it did at WrestleMania. 'The Animal' made his way out to the squared circle, the Izod Center giving him a warm greeting with chants of "welcome back." "See, how come this couldn't happen last year when I needed it?" Batista joked with New Jersey. "Come on. I know some of you guys got more 'Bootista' chants in you." Batista then said that he decided to stop by No Mercy tonight with only one intention. "Two if you ask my agents who pestered me all day to make sure that I mention Guardians of the Galaxy releasing in theaters on August 1st. Even with my busy schedule as of late doing media for the movie, I jumped at the opportunity to make an appearance at WrestleMania because no matter, this ring will always be my home. Whether you guys cheer me or boo me, this is where I feel the most comfortable. It didn't hit me until the Unique Opportunity Battle Royal how much I miss pro wrestling, so I made it my goal to come back whenever I've got the time, and guess what? I've got the time." Batista said that with the limited time he has, he wanted to come out here tonight and issue a challenge for a match that he knew he wanted the second he stood across from this individual at WrestleMania. "On June 1st, Monday Night RAW will present Bad Blood, and that's where I want a one-on-one match with the newest 'Animal' on the block. Consider the challenge issued, so now, the ball's in your court... Braun Strowman." Batista exited the ring as the WWE Universe went wild, knowing that a match between himself and Strowman could be on the horizon if 'The Monster Among Men' accepts the challenge.
NO HOLDS BARRED MATCH: The rivalry between Randy Orton and Kevin Owens finally reached its conclusion after having been brewing since prior to the Royal Rumble. With no rules or regulations to stop either from tearing into each other, Owens headed down to the ring with a kendo stick that he intended on using to slay 'The Viper' once and for all. Orton made the walk down the entrance ramp without a weapon to defend himself, but changed the complexion of the match by grabbing a lead pipe from underneath the ring. Orton struck Owens with the lead pipe first, giving him the upper-hand before the contest spilled to the outside. Orton took the kendo stick for himself and tried striking Owens with it, but 'The Prizefighter' grabbed it in time. Owens kicked Orton in the mid-section before leveling him in the back with the kendo stick. Owens tried following up with a Powerbomb onto the ring apron, but Orton fought out of it by pushing Owens into the ring post. Orton brought Owens closer to the barricade, but couldn't lift him up. Owens punched Orton in his forehead before taking a TV monitor, using it to render 'The Vuper' vulnerable. Owens set Orton up against the barricade, launching himself into him with a Cannonball! Owens rolled Orton into the ring, getting the first near-fall of the match.
Owens looked underneath the ring, bringing out a table that he laid Orton across. 'The Prizefighter' climbed up to the top rope, leaping off with a Senton Bomb that Orton was able to evade! Owens crashed through the table, Orton trying to capitalize on the moment by covering him. After Owens was able to get his shoulder up at two, Orton exited the ring and looked underneath ring for anything he could use to finish off Owens. Orton ended up bringing out a barbed wire board, Mauro Ranallo noting the symbolism of Orton utilizing one. "Ten years ago, it was Mick Foley who ushered in a new for Orton by pulverizing him in a similar environment to this match. Orton's now the one welcoming Kevin Owens to his world." Orton placed the board on the canvas, waiting for Owens to get back up. Orton tried for an RKO, but Owens prevented it. Owens ran the ropes for a Clothesline, only to have it countered into a Scoop Powerslam onto the barbed wire! Owens screamed in agony while the masses that packed the Izod Center went wild. Orton covered Owens on top of the barbed wire, 'The Prizefighter' miraculously kicking out! Orton himself was stunned by Owens' resiliency, but was still hellbent on keeping him down for good. Orton waited for Owens to free himself from the barbed wire to attempt the Punt Kick that failed to deliver at WrestleMania. As Orton was in motion for the kick, Owens grabbed the lead pipe from the start of the match and struck 'The Viper' on the side of his head! Owens threw Orton into the ropes, throwing him into the air for the Pop Up Powerbomb onto the barbed wire board! Owens covered Orton to defeat him for the second consecutive time. KEVIN OWENS IS VICTORIOUS!
AFTERMATH: Despite Kevin Owens being an established name by this point, many in the WWE Universe were not expecting him to be able to pin Randy Orton at two consecutive Pay-Per-Views. "Just like Randy Orton, a lot of people believed that Kevin Owens' victory at WrestleMania was a fluke that couldn't be duplicated. Owens just showed everyone why he's every bit as good as he says he is. The record book will show that Orton has never defeated Owens, while Owens has beaten Orton twice," said Corey Graves. Owens limped up the entrance ramp, looking back at the fallen Orton one final time before moving on, both tonight and going forward.
VIGNETTE: "No man is ever truly good... No man is ever truly evil... Whichever one I am is up to your discretion... But understand that no matter how you view me, darkness will fall and the universe will fade to black. Aleister Black arrives in four weeks at Bad Blood.
WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS: It was finally time for The New Day to try to avenge the loss of the WWE Tag Team Championships the night after WrestleMania last month. With Xavier Woods' arm still in a sling, Big E and Kofi Kingston headed into battle against the two individuals who have spent the last few weeks torturing them, Bray Wyatt and Pentagon. New Day showed a much more serious side to them, not engaging in their usual festivities as much as one would expect them to. After they were settled in the ring, The Wyatt Tribe made the presence felt in the Izod Center. Chants of "Cero Miedo" filled the atmosphere, showing the popularity of the trio despite their heinous tactics. Pentagon and Big E started off the match, the latter rushing into the contest, which was uncharacteristic of him. Pentagon got his knee up during an attempt at a Spear through the ropes. While still on the ring apron, Pentagon caught Kingston with a Superkick before targeting Big E's leg to try to slow down the agile big man. Pentagon soon had his try at the Pentagon Driver countered into a Sidewalk Slam, Big E running the ropes with a hindered leg to deliver a Splash. Wyatt pulled Big E out of the ring, throwing him into the steel steps before rolling him back in.
Pentagon made the tag to Wyatt, who toyed with Big E for a bit. 'The Eater of Worlds' got into his spider walk position, not expecting Kingston to soar through the air with a Frog Splash onto him! Kingston then went after Pentagon, Big E covering Wyatt for a two count. The New Day had the momentum at that point, Big E getting Wyatt onto his shoulder for what would have been an incredible feat of strength in the Big Ending. Maxine, however, stepped onto the ring apron to create a distraction. Woods responded by standing next to Maxine, blaring Francesca into her ear. Wyatt shoved Big E into Woods before turning him around for Sister Abigail. At that moment, Kingston was able to slide back into the ring and connect with Trouble in Paradise! Big E made the tag to Kingston before the two decided to finish The Wyatt Tribe off with the Midnight Hour. Wyatt, however, was able to use his weight to his advantage. He got Big E in position for an Inverted DDT before catching Kingston in mid-air for a Uranage. Wyatt planted Big E with the DDT before tagging Pentagon back into the match. Pentagon watched Big E crawl towards Wyatt, believing that he was still the legal man. Pentagon then trapped Big E's left arm before snapping his right one! While Big E held his arm, Kingston tried to intervene, only to be caught with Sister Abigail! While Kingston was down, Pentagon decided to break his arm as well! With each member of New Day having a broken arm, all Pentagon had to was finish off Kingston with the Pentagon Driver to seal the victory for Wyatt and himself. THE WYATT TRIBE ARE STILL THE WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS!
AFTERMATH: "Get used to this site, Ranallo. We're going to be seeing it for a long, long time," said Corey Graves as The Wyatt Tribe stood tall in victory with the WWE Tag Team Championships. Not only did Bray Wyatt and Pentagon defeat The New Day again. but the latter managed to snap the arms of the remaining members. Medical assistance arrived for Big E and Kofi Kingston while Wyatt, Pentagon and Maxine walked towards the backstage area. "Earlier tonight, Wrestling Royalty became the number one contenders for those WWE Tag Team Championships. If Ted DiBiase and Joe Hennig are not still contemplating retirement, they may be forced into it by the trio known as The Wyatt Tribe."
ADVERTISEMENT: A promo was shown for SmackDown Live's Pay-Per-View, Backlash, featuring an eight superstar tournament to crown a new WWE Champion. Backlash is live tomorrow night on Pay-Per-View and the WWE Network.
VIDEO PACKAGE: At the WWE Draft, Monday Night RAW made it clear that they're getting ready to usher in 'The New Era' when they used their first round NXT pick on Finn Balor. 'The Demon' made his way over to RAW and immediately made a statement by taking out Triple H on his first night with Coup de Grace. 'The Game' would not let his humiliation go without a rebuttal as he played a pivotal role in Balor losing the NXT Championship to Kyle O'Reilly at a live event in Atlanta. Hunter's protege, Seth Rollins, stepped up to the plate against Balor, setting the stage for this first time ever encounter tonight. 'The Architect' battles 'The Demon' at No Mercy.
ARCHITECT VS. DEMON: Seth Rollins and Triple H made their way down to the ring first, 'The Architect' looking to defy the lore of Finn Balor in the Pay-Per-View debut of 'The Demon.' Hunter made it clear that he believes he's the sole individual responsible for the rise of Balor, and will now do everything in his power to destroy "his creation." As Rollins waited in the ring, the lights in the Izod Center shut while flashes of red appeared on the stage along with smoke. Several men with Balor Club leather jackets and hoodies covering their heads walked through the entrance ramp, turning their backs to the ring while raising sledgehammers. Simultaneously, each individual slammed their sledgehammers onto the stage, causing the titantron to show a static effect. When the static cleared, text reading 'Game Over' in red appeared. Finally, Balor's entrance music hit as 'The Demon' crawled onto the stage, wearing a crown on his head while carrying his own sledgehammer that was painted entirely black. Balor pointed the hammer at Rollins and Hunter before setting it down to continue his awe-inspiring entrance.
When the bell sounded, Balor didn't make a single move. Rollins had to be the first one to strike, his kick to Balor's mid-section resulting in 'The Demon' unleashing a flurry of offense. Balor Dropkicked Rollins into a corner, holding the momentum until Triple H grabbed his foot while he was trying to get back into the ring. Rollins used that opening to Superkick Balor, bringing him closer for a Rainmaker-esque knee strike. Rollins got the cover, but Balor managed to kick. "Come on, Demon!" Rollins shouted in Balor's face while slapping him repeatedly. Rollins positioned Balor for a Buckle Bomb, but it was countered into a roll-up. When Rollins kicked out, Balor rose to his feet and delivered a Slingblade. Balor had Rollins set up for the Coup de Grace, but 'The Demon' chose to instead first take out Hunter with a Crossbody to the outside! Balor slid back into the ring, Rollins catching him with a Discus Elbow, followed by the Buckle Bomb that he failed to connect with earlier. While Balor was on his hands and knees, Rollins ran the ropes and caved his head in with a Curb Stomp! "That's it! Demon slayed!" Corey Graves screamed into his headset before Rollins got the cover. Somehow, someway, Balor was able to kick out! The WWE Universe members in the Izod Center came unglued as Rollins tried not to dwell on the fact that Balor was still alive in this contest. Rollins tried to set Balor up for God's Last Gift, only to have it countered into a Bloody Sunday! Balor kept his grip on the head and neck of Rollins, getting to his feet for a second Bloody Sunday! When Balor stepped out onto the ring apron, he charged towards Hunter with a kick to his chest before ascending to the top rope. Balor flew off with Coup de Grace to the chest of Rollins, covering him to finally get the victory. FINN BALOR IS VICTORIOUS!
AFTERMATH: The celebration began in the Izod Center as Finn Balor had just scored the win in his Pay-Per-View debut as part of the Monday Night RAW roster. 'The Demon' stood on the second rope while looking out at the sea of fans who raised their arms with the cues in his entrance music. Triple H and Seth Rollins had to assist each other up the entrance ramp, 'The Game' turning back to Balor with in infuriated expression on his face. Balor knew that despite winning this match, he has yet to win the way. Hunter and Rollins will be back soon enough for another shot at 'The Demon,' but tonight at No Mercy, Balor has one-upped the tyrannical pairing.
SEGMENT: Backstage, WWE Women's Champion AJ Lee was shown in a dark corridor, holding her own video camera to cut a promo just like Emma did earlier. "Emma... my sweet, sweet Emma," said AJ. "Don't fight my advances. You hold the key to my happiness. I have what you want... and you've got what I want, too. You said you're not scared of me? You're not falling for the mind games? Well then... let the games begin."
VIDEO PACKAGE: "Through your eyes, I fight for gravity. A place to stand, and a place to breathe." During the rise of NXT over the last year, it was Emma who lead the charge in the women's division as the first-ever NXT Women's Champion. After an injury sidelined Emma for the last half of 2013, she returned to the brand and quickly re-asserted her dominance by winning the Women's Title for her second time. Emma was drafted to Monday Night RAW in the second round, and on her first night as part of the main roster, she became the number one contender for AJ Lee's WWE Women's Championship. "Do you know who I am? I'm so afraid you'll never understand." During a contract signing between the two superstars, AJ made very suggestive advances towards Emma, which the latter brushed off as mind games that she will not fall for. This past Monday, AJ made references to feelings of love and wanting to be loved in return, but didn't make it clear if Emma was her target in that aspect. Whether AJ has a legitimate reason to behave this way towards Emma, or if it's just mind games, the two are just mere minutes away from a first time ever encounter for the WWE Women's Championship. "Shadowed in time, another road redefined. Redefined."
WWE WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP: The biggest match of Emma's career awaited her as the first-ever NXT Women's Champion walked down to the ring with the opportunity to become the first superstar in history to have held both the NXT and WWE Women's Championships. "There's nobody in WWE right now better at playing mind games than AJ Lee. 'The Black Widow' knows exact;y what she's doing, but having seen the growth of Emma throughout her time in NXT, she's ready for this. This is what she's been training for all this time, and she won't let some measly suggestions about love and romance get to her head," Corey Graves asserted. AJ Lee then made her entrance, the WWE Women's Champion skipping down to the squared circle with a giant smile lighting up her face. When the bell sounded, Emma immediately went after AJ, striking and kicking her nonstop in a corner. AJ jumped up to her feet and waved at Emma, showing that her attacks had no effect on her. Emma charged into AJ again, thrusting her shoulder into her mid-section. After a Northern Lights Suplex from Emma, AJ was able to kick out of the first pin attempt.
Emma stayed in control for much of the early potion, but that didn't mean that AJ was vulnerable. The defending champion took pleasure in Emma's attacks, smiling and laughing at her every step of the way. When Emma attempted a Superplex, AJ was able to counter it into a Sunset Flip. With Emma on her knees, AJ charged into her with a Shining Wizard! However, the defending champion could not capitalize immediately as Emma rolled to the outside. Instead of going after her right away, AJ sat on the ring apron with her legs crossed, looking down at her opponent. Emma rose to her feet, meeting AJ face-to-face as 'The Black Widow' licked her lips. Emma went for a strike, but AJ blocked it and delivered a Tornado DDT onto the floor! AJ picked Emma up and rolled her back into the ring, ascending to the top rope for a Missile Dropkick. After connecting with it, AJ crawled onto Emma's unconscious body, caressing the side of her face before picking her up for a Twist of Fate.
As AJ was preparing for the Twist of Fate, the referee suddenly became occupied with something happening at ringside. A group of security guards were shown restraining somebody, that individual revealed to be SmackDown Live superstar, Peyton Royce. The official and security guards tried escorting Peyton up the entrance ramp since she had no clearance to be in the Izod Center until Backlash tomorrow night. AJ stared at Peyton before the audience reacted to something that was unbeknownst to her. When AJ turned around, she was struck with a Big Boot from Billie Kay! "The Iconic Duo has just ruined a championship match!" Mauro Ranallo said into his headset. Billie ran up the entrance ramp and went after the security guards, freeing Peyton so that the two could make a run for the exit. The official turned around and saw that Emma had the cover on AJ. He ran back into the ring, making the three count. EMMA IS THE NEW WWE WOMEN'S CHAMPION!
AFTERMATH: "She did it! Emma is the WWE Women's Champion!" Corey Graves shouted over the disapproving audience in East Rutherford. Mauro Ranallo responded with, "Emma didn't do anything! The Iconic Duo, who aren't even on RAW, are the ones that handed her this match!" Emma was presented with the WWE Women's Title by the official as she rolled out of the ring, staring at the gold with tears in her eyes. Emma is now the only superstar in history to have won both the NXT and WWE Women's Championships, but no one will forget the manner in which she accomplished that feat. "Iconic said that no matter what brands they were on, they would always have each other's backs. Peyton Royce and Billie Kay proved that tonight, and as a result, Emma is the new WWE Women's Champion!"
ADVERTISEMENT: On Sunday June 1st, RAW will present Bad Blood, live on Pay-Per-View from the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.
SEGMENT: Returning to the live feed in the Izod Center, AJ Lee was shown still lying on her back after losing the WWE Women's Championship to Emma, thanks entirely to assistance from Peyton Royce and Billie Kay. AJ looked up at the ceiling with a dazed look on her face while the official tried telling her that she needed to leave the ring. The former Women's Champion then began smiling and laughing again, this time more pronounced than before. AJ rolled out to ringside and skipped up the entrance ramp, the entire world puzzled as to why someone who just lost her championship would be laughing at the fact.
VIDEO PACKAGE: For nearly one year, two superstars have crossed paths several times on their respective rises to the top of WWE. After Derrick Bateman was stripped of his Money in the Bank briefcase 11 months ago, AJ Styles captured the briefcase and used it to win the WWE Championship at Survivor Series. At that same event, Bateman overcame Shane McMahon and was rewarded with half-ownership of WWE. Styles defended his title against Bateman at Concrete Jungle in a contest that 'The Phenomenal One' was victorious in. Bateman would go on to win the Royal Rumble match and become the first-ever Universal Champion. In a battle to see who the superior champion truly was, Styles and Bateman captained WarGames teams at Battleground. It was there when Bateman became the first superstar in WWE to hand Styles a pinfall loss. At WrestleMania, Bateman and Styles were thrust into match-ups against some of pro wrestling's biggest names in history. While Bateman managed to defeat John Cena and Brock Lesnar to retain the Universal Title, Styles did not have the same luck in his WWE Championship defense against The Undertaker. After Undertaker vacated the title the next night on RAW, Styles spoke about believing that he needed to start over and prove himself once again to the WWE Universe. Bateman used that moment to attack Styles, deeming the Universal Championship the most important, prestigious accolade on all of pro wrestling because it was held by him. The two were drafted to Monday Night RAW, and Styles quickly became the number one contender for the gold.
UNIVERSAL CHAMPIONSHIP: For the first time since Survivor Series, AJ Styles made the walk down to the squared circle without any gold, but that could all change tonight if he is able to defeat the man who has become nearly-undefeatable this year. Styles waited patiently in the ring as the defending Universal Champion, Derrick Bateman, made his way down to the ring. After the official raised the championship and called for the bell, Bateman and Styles immediately went after one another with strikes. Styles threw Bateman out to ringside, springboarding onto him with a Crossbody. Styles sent Bateman back into the ring, going for his Phenomenal Forearm early. Bateman was able to counter the aerial attack into a Full Nelson slam, covering Styles for a two count when he noticed that Styles was still showing signs of an injured back. At that point, Bateman chose to target Styles' back specifically.
Bateman worked over Styles' back for much of the contest, rendering just about everything in Styles' strength and aerial-based arsenal useless. When Bateman propped Styles up on his shoulders for a TKO, Styles was able to free himself and deliver an Inverted DDT, hurting himself as well in the process. Styles tried to set up the Styles Clash, only for Bateman to launch him over the top rope. Bateman exited the ring and saw Styles charging towards him, 'The God of the New Era' sending him over his head. Styles landed his feet on the steel steps, but Bateman swiped at his leg and caused him to fall over, crashing his back onto the steps! Styles writhed around in sheer agony as Bateman rolled him into the ring, running into him with a knee strike to the side of his head. Bateman picked Styles up again, this time successfully hitting the TKO. Bateman followed up with a cover, the official counting to three and ending Styles' run for the gold. DERRICK BATEMAN IS STILL THE UNIVERSAL CHAMPION!
AFTERMATH: As soon as the closing bell sounded, the official called for help from the backstage area for AJ Styles, who couldn't even stand up after having taken the amount of punishment to his back as he did. Bateman was handed back the Universal Championship as he raised it high into the air, staring down at the fallen Styles, who had just lost his third consecutive Pay-Per-View match after going undefeated in 2013. And unlike any of his other losses, this came to Styles through in what was a dominant performance on the part of his opponent. "This is the end of the AJ Styles era in WWE. Styles had his moment at the top. It was fun while it lasted, but as we've been told time and time again, we're all living in Derrick Bateman's world," Corey Graves said. Bateman made his way over to the announce table on the side of the stage, standing on top of it while showing off the Universal Championship that will still be his after No Mercy.
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:14:54 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:15:19 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:15:53 GMT -5
KICKOFF: Baron Corbin and The Usos proved their superiority over Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno as a trio when Jimmy Uso was able to pin Ohno following a Splash from the top rope.
INTRO: A video package featuring "Shock Me" by Baroness opened tonight's event, taking the WWE Universe back to The Undertaker's relinquishment of the WWE Championship the night after WrestleMania XXX. At the WWE Draft, Monday Night RAW took Universal Champion Derrick Bateman, making the WWE Title exclusive to SmackDown Live. Commissioner and General Manager, Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle, wasted no time announcing an eight superstar tournament to crown a new WWE Champion. Tonight, John Cena, CM Punk, Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes, The Miz, Dean Ambrose, Sami Zayn, IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion Tyler Breeze, and Paige competed for the right to call themselves the very first WWE Champion of the SmackDown Live era. "A deep well of despair I found the day my dreams came true. Shock me, I needed a surprise." Welcome to Backlash.
CENA VS. AMBROSE: The first SmackDown Live-exclusive Pay-Per-View kicked off with the first round of the WWE Championship tournament as John Cena made his entrance to the usual mixed reaction that he's come to know. Cena, who was approaching one year without the WWE Title around his waist, was looking to position himself back on top of the mountain as the holder of the most prestigious prize in all of professional wrestling. Dean Ambrose was the next superstar out, ready to claim the title that he believed was destined to be his after winning Manifest Destiny in November. On commentary, Nigel McGuinness pointed out that Cena and Ambrose's only one-on-one match before this happened in the Manifest Destiny tournament, and 'The Lunatic Fringe' managed to come out on top.
When the bell sounded, Cena and Ambrose locked up, 'The Franchise Player' able to win the test of strength. Ambrose launched himself into Cena, taking him down with a Thesz Press and series of strikes. Ambrose tried to keep Cena grounded, later placing him on top of the announce table just to Clothesline him off of it. Ambrose's first pinfall attempt came after an Elbow Drop to a standing Cena, the latter managing to kick out at two. Ambrose began sizing up Cena for the Boma Ye, only for Cena to counter it and hoist Ambrose onto his shoulders for the Attitude Adjustment. Ambrose held onto the top rope, Cena sending him over and onto the apron. Ambrose brought Cena's neck down onto the top rope before sliding back into the ring, looking for Dirty Deeds. Cena was able to counter that into the Attitude Adjustment, rolling over with Ambrose still on his shoulders for a second one! Cena did so to ensure that Ambrose wouldn't be able to get up, and it paid dividends as the official made the three count. JOHN CENA ADVANCES TO THE SEMI-FINALS!
AFTERMATH: A mixture of cheers and boos could be heard coming from the WWE Universe members in the Izod Center as John Cena was declared victorious, advancing to the semi-finals to battle the winner of the next contest. Cena assisted Dean Ambrose up to his feet, the latter clearly frustrated, but more so with himself rather than his opponent. Cena and Ambrose shook hands in a show of respect, 'The Lunatic Fringe' exiting the ring to allow Cena his moment of glory.
SEGMENT: Backstage, SmackDown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon was shown in his office, pleased with the opening contest that set the stage for the remainder of the WWE Championship tournament throughout the evening. Suddenly, The Iconic Duo walked into the office, both Billie Kay and Peyton Royce smiling while Shane's expression turned to that of rage. "... Well? Do either of you plan on explaining yourselves? Who's going to be the first to give me a reason why I shouldn't take you both out of the Elimination Chamber match at Judgment Day for the stunt you pulled last night?" he asked. Billie asked Shane what his plan was if he took The Iconic Duo out of Judgment Day? "You've been going on and on about making history in Boston with the women's Elimination Chamber match. The promotional posters have already been sent out. Network ads are already playing for it. You don't have two women to replace us, so whether you like it or not, Peyton and I are untouchable." Shane told Billie that they're not immune to any form of punishment. "Nobody on this roster is 'untouchable.' Tonight, you two have Becky Lynch and Allie, and after that, I'll deal with you both on Thursday."
ZAYN VS. BREEZE: SmackDown Live's top two Draft picks from NXT were pitted against one another in the WWE Championship tournament, Sami Zayn and Tyler Breeze no strangers to each other as they were tied up in a rivalry last year for the NXT Championship. Zayn made his entrance first, East Rutherford showing their unanimous appreciation for 'THe Underdog from the Underground.' Once Zayn was settled in the ring, the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion graced the Izod Center with his presence. Breeze, who has had one of the most unorthodox years thus far out of anybody on the roster, was ready to become a double champion by adding the WWE Title to his resume.
Breeze stood in a corner, admiring the reflection in his iPhone's camera when Zayn attempted the Helluva Kick immediately. Breeze lured Zayn in, striking him with his elbow. Breeze then rolled Zayn up, the latter striking the back of his head against the bottom turnbuckle. Breeze displayed his aggressive side throughout the first half of the contest, taking control and making it appear that Zayn's WWE Championship aspirations were going to be dashed in only the first round. Breeze tried taking a page out of one of New Japan Pro Wrestling's talents that he bested, Kota Ibushi, with a Phoenix Splash. Before Breeze could take flight, Zayn threw himself into the ropes. Breeze dropped crotch-first onto the turnbuckle connector, Zayn stepping onto the second rope. Zayn brought Breeze down to the canvas with an Avalanche Half-Nelson Suplex, Zayn getting the cover for a two count. Zayn brought Breeze up to his feet, trying for a Blue Thunder Bomb that was countered into a DDT. Breeze waited for Zayn to get back to his feet, attempting the Beauty Shot. However, Zayn was able to catch Breeze in his arms, finally delivering the Blue Thunder Bomb that he had been looking for. Breeze staggered into a corner to get to his feet, Zayn taking him down with the Helluva Kick! Zayn got the cover that put him in the final four of the WWE Championship tournament. SAMI ZAYN ADVANCES TO THE SEMI-FINALS!
AFTERMATH: The roof just about came off of the Izod Center after the closing bell, Sami Zayn having his arm raised in victory. Zayn, who made it clear in the past that he was unsure if he even deserved to be in this tournament, now found himself going to the semi-finals to take on John Cena in what many in the WWE Universe consider to be a dream match. "Next to Paige, Zayn is the biggest underdog pick anybody can make in this tournament. Now, he's just one match away from the finals, but if he wants to advance to tonight's main event, he has the WWE's 'Franchise Player' waiting for him," Rob Naylor stated.
VIGNETTE: "What I need is what I am...'The Drifter' Elias makes his way to SmackDown Live, soon.
PAIGE VS. MIZ: Before the bracket was revealed earlier today, this was the only contest that the WWE Universe knew they would be witnessing. A heated bout as Paige's inclusion in the WWE Championship tournament sparked controversy that a select few superstars spoke out against. While TJ Perkins took the route to target Paige for her gender, The Miz made it well-known that he believes Paige should not be in the running for the gold because of her wrestling ability. Now was the moment for 'The Awesome One' to back up his claim and prove that he is superior to 'The Anti-Diva.' Miz headed down to the ring, the two-time WWE Champion looking to add a third reign with the title to his already Hall of Fame-worthy list of accolades. Miz paced back-and-forth in the ring, having to brace himself of the audience's eruption at the first sound of Paige's entrance theme. Paige walked out onto the stage, wearing her signature leather jacket over a new t-shirt that referred to herself as 'Princess Anarchist' instead of 'The Anti-Diva.' Paige stepped into the ring, standing across from Miz as reality settled in for many at that moment that she is really on the verge of potentially becoming WWE Champion.
Miz and Paige started the bout with a series of strikes against one another, Miz taking Paige down by her legs. Miz slingshotted Paige into a corner, the latter able to land her feet onto the first rope. Paige caught Miz with an elbow shot as he was charging towards her, Paige then running into him with a Clothesline that she needed to deliver with more momentum than the average person in a WWE Title tournament. Paige perhaps overestimated her own abilities when she attempted to apply the PTO, Miz able to grab her by the back of her head and throw her face onto the canvas. Miz kicked Paige out of the ring with a Baseball Slide. Miz worked Paige from that point on, taking complete control of the match while the WWE Universe tried to rally behind 'Princess Anarchist.' "You don't deserve any of this! The WWE Championship is mine! Mine!" Miz shouted in Paige's face before she headbutted him in between his eyes! Paige charged into Miz with The Antithesis, 'The Awesome One' managing to grab her leg despite being in a daze. Paige responded with an Enziguri before taking Miz into a corner for a Tornado DDT. Miz was able to throw Paige forward, causing her to land front-first on the mat. Miz, who was still not fully responsive, instinctively went for the Skull Crushing Finale. Paige slid out underneath Miz' legs, taking him down to the canvas with a German Suplex onto the back of his neck! Miz used the ropes to get to his feet, only to be struck in the jaw with The Antithesis! Paige pushed Miz down onto the canvas, 'The Awesome One' landing on his knees. Paige delivered one more Antithesis before covering the fallen Miz to silence him, as well as all of her critics. PAIGE ADVANCES TO THE SEMI-FINALS!
AFTERMATH: Every single Paige fan in the Izod Center and around the world was able to let out a sigh of relief as she managed to overcome The Miz, crushing any chance that 'The Awesome One' had at capturing his third WWE Championship tonight. Paige stirred to her feet, 'Princess Anarchist' looking down at Miz with a smile on her face, knowing that she was able to take out at least one barrier for her in this tournament. "Paige as the WWE Champion is something that no one, not even her supporters, will believe until they see. Naylor... we're two matches away from seeing it," said Nigel McGuinness.
ADVERTISEMENT: On Saturday May 31st, SmackDown Live presents its second Pay-Per-View event, Judgment Day, featuring the first-ever women's Elimination Chamber match to crown a SmackDown Women's Champion. Alexa Bliss vs. Kaitlyn vs. Allie vs. Becky Lynch vs. Billie Kay vs. Peyton Royce. Judgment Day is live in four weeks from the TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts.
SEGMENT: In a private suite here in the Izod Center, Bobby Roode was shown watching the WWE Championship tournament unfold, 'The Glorious One' looking to soon have his own title bout against whoever comes out on top here tonight at Backlash.
RHODES VS. PUNK: A rematch from WrestleMania XXX and the WWE Draft as the Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes made his way down to the ring. 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling' was the only current champion who remained in the tournament after Tyler Breeze's elimination earlier, and Rhodes was looking to become a two-time WWE Champion here tonight by defeating CM Punk for the third straight time. After Rhodes was settled in the ring, "Cult of Personality" sounded to signal the arrival of the self-proclaimed 'Best in the World.' Punk walked down to the ring, not taking his hoodie down until he came face-to-face with Rhodes. Punk would not be able to reclaim the Intercontinental Championship, but he could remove Rhodes from WWE Championship contention instead.
Neither superstar rushed into action, perhaps showing their experience when the WWE Championship is at stake. Punk continuously looked for a submission hold, nearly having Rhodes in the Anaconda Vice until the Intercontinental Champion was able to reach the bottom rope. Rhodes rolled to the outside, Punk then trying for a Suicide Dive. Rhodes, however, was able to catch Punk and plant him onto the floor with a Vertical Suplex. Rhodes rolled Punk into the ring, trying to beat him at his own submission game with a Figure Four Leg Lock. Punk kicked Rhodes away before the hold could be cinched in, Rhodes bouncing off of the second turnbuckle with a Disaster Kick! Rhodes brought Punk back up for the Angle Slam, 'The Best in the World' able to fight his way out of it through a poke to the eye. Punk kicked Rhodes upside his head, weakening him to the point where he was able to send him shoulder-first into the steel ring post. Punk hoisted Rhodes onto his shoulder, looking for the Go To Sleep. Punk, however, went a different route with the maneuver, and instead of colliding his knee with Rhodes' head, Punk caught the Intercontinental Champion's shoulder that had already been affected. Punk then applied the Anaconda Vice again, putting all of the pressure on the hindered shoulder of Rhodes. There was no possible for Rhodes to be able to make it to the ropes, leaving him with no choice but to submit. CM PUNK ADVANCES TO THE SEMI-FINALS!
AFTERMATH: While some in the WWE Universe predicted this outcome, no one could have imagined CM Punk being able to make Cody Rhodes, the Intercontinental Champion and 2013 Superstar of the Year, tap out to the Anaconda Vice. Punk went down a different path to get this victory, but it ultimately worked as he takes the last spot in the final four of this tournament. Later on tonight, Punk will take on Paige, while John Cena battles Sami Zayn. One of those four superstars will leave Backlash as the new WWE Champion.
SEGMENT: Backstage, SmackDown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon was shown meeting with General Manager Kurt Angle, the latter asking Shane if he dealt with The Iconic Duo already. "They know what they did was wrong, but they don't care. I'll figure out how to deal with..." Shane said before he and Angle were interrupted by The Usos, Jimmy and Jey asking their bosses if they saw what they did to Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro and Kassius Ohno on the Kickoff Show? "What we want to know, Uce, is what are we fighting for? RAW's got the Tag Team Titles that we want, so unless y'all two plan on working something out to send us over to Monday nights, we ain't got nothing else to prove on SmackDown Live," Jey said. Shane then told The Usos that if they want something to fight for, then he advises that they listen very closely to what he has to say this coming Thursday. "I said it once, and I'll say it again. Team Blue is the place to be for every WWE superstar, and that includes tag teams."
BLISS VS. KAITLYN: The first non-tournament match took place as two of the superstars in the Elimination Chamber match at Judgment Day battled it out to continue their rivalry on the road to May 31st. Kaitlyn has said time and time again that she believes Alexa Bliss owes every bit of credit for her success to her. It was 'The Hybrid Athlete' who put 'Little Miss Bliss' into the Tables, Ladders and Chairs match that skyrocketed her career back in December. "Kaitlyn might have a point about being the one to launch Alexa Bliss into superstardom, but since then, Alexa has become a cornerstone of the women's division all on her own," said Nigel McGuinness. At the opening bell, Alexa charged towards Kaitlyn, utilizing her scrappy nature to get the upper-hand early on. When Kaitlyn tried retreating to the outside, Alexa followed her and delivered a huge strike to the side of her face! Alexa slammed Kaitlyn's face onto the announced table before stepping onto the surface herself. Alexa tried for a DDT, but Kaitlyn hoisted her up in a Gorilla Press position, throwing Alexa onto the floor!
After Alexa's hard fall to the ground, Kaitlyn was in the driver's seat of the contest, using her strength to throw Alexa around the squared circle. Alexa showed new signs of life later on after charging her shoulder into Kaitlyn's right thigh. Alexa Dropkicked Kaitlyn out of the ring before heading up to the top rope, launching off with a Flying Crossbody to the outside. However, Kaitlyn was able to catch Alexa in mid-air, ramming her back into the ring post! Alexa using the ring skirt to get to her feet, but as soon as she did, she was drilled with a Spear! The back of Alexa's head bounced off of the floor, Kaitlyn rolling her back into the ring. Kaitlyn sized up Alexa for a second Spear, successfully delivering it before covering the former WWE Women's Champion for the win. KAITLYN IS VICTORIOUS!
AFTERMATH: The fans in the Izod Center were clearly not pleased with the outcome as Kaitlyn stood tall over Alexa Bliss, picking up a huge amount of momentum on her way to the Elimination Chamber match. For months now, Kaitlyn has tried to take credit for all of Alexa Bliss' accomplishments. 'The Hybrid Athlete' may never be able to convince the world of her beliefs, but she has just shown everyone why she has to be viewed as one of the favorites at Judgment Day. Kaitlyn made her way up the entrance ramp while motioning for the SmackDown Women's Championship that she hopes to make hers on May 31st.
RECAP: In the first round of the WWE Championship, John Cena, Sami Zayn, Paige and CM Punk were able to overcome Dean Ambrose, IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion Tyler Breeze, The Miz and Intercontinental Champion Cody Rhodes respectively to advance to the semi-finals. The field of eight has become four as we are ready to find out who will be competing in the finals tonight for the WWE Championship.
CENA VS. ZAYN: A dream match for many WWE Universe members, especially those who had been following Sami Zayn's journey to this point from the very beginning. "No one, and I mean no one believed Zayn would ever make it here. We all knew how talented he is, but for the longest time, it felt like someone like him wasn't meant for the WWE machine. Times have changed drastically, and now, Zayn is about to meet John Cena one-on-one with a shot at the WWE Title on the line," said Rob Naylor, clearly emotional over the fact that Zayn was on the cusp of history by becoming the first former NXT Champion to win the big one on the main roster. It was evident from the start of the match that the fans in New Jersey were backing Zayn, Cena not being fazed since it was Zayn who had all of the pressure in the world placed onto his shoulders.
Cena and Zayn took their time scouting the other's next move, trying to get a feel for how the rest of the contest would go based on the opening sequence. Zayn caught Cena with a surprise small package roll-up early on, nearly defeating him right there and then. Cena took Zayn down with several Clotheslines before throwing him over the top rope. Cena stepped out onto the ring apron, leaping off with a shoulder block. Cena got back on the ring apron, this time with Zayn. It looked Cena was going for an Attitude Adjustment onto the apron, but Zayn countered it into a Half-Nelson Suplex! Zayn had to keep his cool and not rush into anything now that he had the upper-hand. 'The Underdog from the Underground' ran around the ring before leaping through the opening between the first and second turnbuckles, catching Cena with an incredible Tornado DDT! Zayn rolled Cena into the ring while the WWE Universe went wild, believing that they were about to see Zayn pull off the upset. Zayn ran towards Cena for a Helluva Kick, but Cena got his feet up in time, stomping down onto Zayn's chest! Cena springboarded off of the second rope for a Stunner, covering Zayn for a two count. Cena then ran the ropes for the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but in the middle of it, Zayn sprang to his feet and ran into Cena with a Helluva Kick! Cena took the kick while backed against the ropes, Zayn not getting all of it. He collapsed onto Cena for a two count, not wasting any time lingering on the fact that he couldn't put Cena away at that moment. Zayn tried for an Exploder Suplex into a corner, but Cena retaliated with elbow strikes to his head. Cena lifted Zayn up for a Vertical Suplex, but Zayn landed on his feet. He got a hold of Cena from behind, throwing him over with an Inverted Exploder! The dazed Cena rose to his feet and backed against a corner and fell victim to a Helluva Kick! Zayn got the cover as the three count was made! SAMI ZAYN ADVANCES TO THE FINALS!
AFTERMATH: "Sami Zayn just pinned John Cena!" Rob Naylor exclaimed over the WWE Universe members in the Izod Center who were just as excited. Zayn himself couldn't believe the result, asking the official repeatedly if he really counted to three. Zayn had his arm raised as he looked at the titantron that displayed the updated bracket with him in the finals. Cena soon came to and got back on his feet, turning Zayn around to give him a few words. "Congratulations. You started this journey all on your own. Now finish it," Cena said, encouraging Zayn to give the fight of his life in tonight's main event for the WWE Championship. Cena applauded Zayn before leaving the ring to him, just about everybody in the arena chanting "Ole!" over and over again. Zayn couldn't let his emotions get the better of him. He overcame Tyler Breeze and John Cena thus far, but the tournament isn't over. Later tonight, either Paige or CM Punk will stand across from him in the bout to crown a new WWE Champion.
ADVERTISEMENT: A promo was shown for Bad Blood, the next RAW Pay-Per-View. The TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts will host Bad Blood four weeks from tonight on Sunday June 1st.
PAIGE VS. PUNK: With Sami Zayn solidifying his spot in the finals of the WWE Championship tournament, his opponent was about to be determined in another first time-ever encounter. Two former members of The Uprising met one-on-one, Paige in a similar situation to Zayn where she ran the risk of letting the fact that she was only one match away from the finals potentially make her more vulnerable to a mistake that would cost her everything. "The world is watching in anticipation. Paige said the day after WrestleMania that her next goal was be the first-ever female WWE Champion. Everybody who laughed at her is now seeing her compete in the semi-finals of a tournament for the gold against one of the modern era's biggest names," Nigel McGuinness said. When the bell sounded, Paige tried locking up with Punk, who looked for the Anaconda Vice early on. Paige fought her way out of it and Dropkicked Punk in his back, sending him to the outside. Paige leaped over the top rope, crashing onto 'The Best in the World' before stepping onto the ring apron. Paige launched herself onto Punk with a Cannonball before waiting for him to get back to his feet. Paige rammed Punk's stomach into the ring apron before slowly rolling him back into the ring.
Paige's burst of momentum came to a halt after a Roundhouse Kick from Punk that garnered him a two count. Punk brought Paige up to her feet by her hair, knowing that she was going to attempt a headbutt like she did earlier against Miz. Punk delivered one before she could, Paige falling back onto the canvas. 'Princess Anarchist' crawled into a corner, Punk waiting for her to get her feet. He then charged at her for a Running High Knee, Paige able to evade it. With Punk on the second rope, Punk tucked his head against the top turnbuckle, connecting with a Superkick! After Punk fell back onto the mat, Paige climbed up to the top rope, hitting a split-legged Moonsault. She got the cover on Punk, only able to score a two count. Paige rose to her feet, waiting for Punk to pick himself up since she didn't want to risk making a false move that would lead to a counter of any sort. Punk stood up as Paige went in for The Antithesis, Punk grabbing her leg in time. While the Enziguri worked against Miz earlier, Punk was wise enough to dodge it when she tried it this time. Punk ran the ropes and drove his knee into her face with a Shining Wizard, Paige able to get her shoulder up just before three. "She's exhausted now. One more big move from Punk is going to be the end of her," McGuinness predicted, although he didn't want to be right. Punk brought Paige onto his shoulders for a Go To Sleep, but before hitting it, he charged the back of her head into one of the top turnbuckles! Paige was unconscious as Punk delivered the GTS, 'The Best in the World' getting the cover to become one step closer to the WWE Championship. CM PUNK ADVANCES TO THE FINALS!
AFTERMATH: The hearts of everyone in the Izod Center sunk as CM Punk rose to his feet, his arm being raised in victory by the official. Paige made it this far in the tournament and was only one match away from the finals before having her dreams crushed. "Looking back on this tournament tomorrow, one of the biggest questions among fans will be where does Paige go from here? This was her one opportunity to make history like she said she would. She's going to be sent a few notches down the totem pole and has to go back to the drawing board now. Who knows if Paige will ever get this close to the WWE Title again?" Rob Naylor asked while Punk headed up the entrance ramp, Paige soon realizing that she was eliminated from the tournament. 'Princess Anarchist' sat against the ropes with a disappointed expression on her face, not even able to look at any of the WWE Universe members that she feels she let down. Nonetheless, Punk will now be moving on to the finals against Sami Zayn in tonight's main event for the WWE Championship.
ADVERTISEMENT: As part of Money in the Bank weekend, NXT TakeOver: Chicago will be live on Saturday June 21st from the Allstate Arena.
TAG TEAM MATCH: Breaking up the semi-finals and finals of the WWE Championship tournament was the Tag Team contest in the women's division. The Iconic Duo, who made their presence felt at No Mercy last night by costing AJ Lee the WWE Women's Championship against Emma, re-entered the Izod Center for a match against Allie and one of their rivals from back in NXT, Becky Lynch. Ahead of the Elimination Chamber match at Judgment Day for the SmackDown Women's Championship, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce were able to show their abilities as a duo rather than a trio like they had done previously. Iconic Duo took turns tagging each other into the match punish Allie, Billie driving her foot into her clavicle before stomping on her repeatedly. Billie tried mocking Becky Lynch's "straight fire" shout before charging towards Allie, who was able to move out of harm's way. After knocking Peyton off of the ring apron, Allie ducked a strike from Billie to make the tag to Becky.
'The Irish Lass Kicker' came in hot against The Iconic Duo, taking down Billie with a series of forearm shots before knocking Peyton off of the ring apron. After colliding into Billie in a corner, Becky stepped onto the second rope. Peyton was able to grab Becky's foot, creating a diversion long enough for Billie to pull Becky back onto the canvas. Billie ran the ropes and caught Becky in the side of her head with a Big Boot before tagging Peyton back in. Peyton leaped off of the top rope with a Frog Splash onto Becky, covering her while Billie made sure that Allie couldn't break up the winning pinfall. THE ICONIC DUO IS VICTORIOUS!
AFTERMATH: For the second time this weekend, The Iconic Duo stood tall as Billie Kay and Peyton Royce were able to pick up their first victory on Pay-Per-View. The two hugged each other before having their arms raised, holding hands while looking down at Becky Lynch. Billie and Peyton laughed with one another before exiting the ring, Nigel McGuinness stating that he believes the two of them need to be viewed at the favorites in the Elimination Chamber match at Judgment Day. "They're going to be working as a unit in this match. It's not a free-for-all. It's The Iconic Duo versus the world. If one of them wins, they both win. If you ask me, you're looking at the first-ever SmackDown Women's Champion. Both of them."
RECAP: In the semi-finals of the WWE Championship tournament, Sami Zayn pulled off the upset over John Cena, while CM Punk ruined any hopes that Paige had at becoming the first woman to ever become WWE Champion. We started the evening with eight, and now, it's down to two. 'The Best in the World' versus 'The Underdog from the Underground.' Who will be the first WWE Champion of the SmackDown Live era?
WWE CHAMPIONSHIP: "Let's go!" shouted Sami Zayn along with every single WWE Universe member who packed the Izod Center. A career that saw its journey begin in 2002 could see its culmination 12 years later as Zayn is only one match away from becoming the WWE Champion. "Zayn spent an entire year chasing the NXT Championship. He knows what it's like to have to weather the storm and he's not interested in doing it again. This is now or never for Sami Zayn. If he doesn't win the WWE Title here tonight, as much as it pains me to say this, he may never do it," said Rob Naylor. Zayn walked into the ring, where Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle stood with the WWE Championship in the official's hands. Zayn stared at the title, not only believing now that he deserved to be in the tournament, but he deserved to become champion at last. All that stood in his way was a three-time WWE Champion. Arguably one of the most pivotal factors in 'The New Era' taking the shape that it has. "You could argue that without CM Punk shattering the mold of what a WWE superstar was 'supposed to be,' there would be no Sami Zayn. Punk paved the way for Zayn to get here. Now, it's up to Zayn to carve a new pathway for future professional wrestlers who have dreams of making it to the big stage, despite being told time and time again that they don't have what it takes," Nigel McGuinness said. Punk and Zayn stood across from each other with the WWE Title in between them. Who will leave Backlash with the gold?
Having scouted each other throughout the tournament, it felt like Punk and Zayn never failed to predict the other's next move. Zayn tried countering an early Go To Sleep attempt into a Half-Nelson Suplex, Punk taking Zayn down for the Anaconda Vice. Zayn quickly fought his way out of it, rolling Punk up for a two count. Both men rose to their feet simultaneously, delivering huge backhand slaps to the other. They followed with more of them before Zayn was able to dodge one from Punk. Zayn chopped Punk in the chest before taking his hand, using it to assist him as he walked the top rope for a DDT. When Punk rolled to the outside, Zayn leaped over the top rope with a somersault onto Punk, rolling him into the ring for a two count. Zayn and Punk traded the momentum throughout the contest, Zayn believing he had 'The Best in the World' right here wanted him when he delivered a Brainbuster onto the ring apron. Zayn tried for his patented Tornado DDT on the outside, but Punk was able to catch him with a Roundhouse Kick! Punk removed Zayn from the opening in between the first and second ropes, delivering a Go To Sleep on the outside. Punk tried to slide Zayn into the ring as quickly as he could to get the cover, but Zayn managed to kick out at two. Punk positioned Zayn on the top rope, trying for a Frankensteiner that Zayn countered by holding onto the top rope. Zayn flew onto Punk with a Crossbody, Punk able to turn it into a pinning predicament in his favor. After Zayn kicked out, Punk drilled him with another Roundhouse Kick, following by a headbutt while bringing him closer in with his arms. Zayn fell onto the knees, Punk staring at him with a sadistic grin. Punk hoisted Zayn onto his shoulders, going for the charge into the top turnbuckle like he did earlier to Paige. However, Zayn slid off of Punk's shoulders and pushed him into the corner! Zayn backed away and caught Punk with a Helluva Kick! Punk was still standing in the corner, prompting Zayn to charge into him with a second one! 'The Best in the World' had yet to fall, Zayn trying for a third Helluva Kick! "Come on, Sami! This is the moment you've been waiting for your entire life! Do it!" Naylor screamed into his headset. Zayn ran towards, connecting with his third Helluva Kick that was able to get Punk off of his feet! Zayn fell to the mat and covered Punk with both legs hooked, the official making the three count that no one ever thought they'd see. SAMI ZAYN IS THE NEW WWE CHAMPION!
AFTERMATH: "The winner of this match... and NEW WWE Champion, Sami Zayn!" Every single audience member in the Izod Center jumped with joy as Sami Zayn stood on his knees, holding his hands against his face while bawling his eyes out. Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle stepped into the ring, both men applauding Zayn before presenting him with the WWE Championship. Zayn took the title in his hands, making it official that he is now the WWE Champion for the first time in his career. "Sami Zayn endured years and years of being told that he wasn't good enough to make it to the WWE! They said he was wasting his time chasing this dream, and that he'd never succeed! On May 4th, 2014 in the Izod Center, Sami Zayn has proven everybody wrong and is now the WWE Champion!" Rob Naylor shouted on commentary. Zayn stood on the second rope and raised the WWE Championship while being showered with confetti and chants of, "You deserve it!" It took him one year to become NXT Champion, but at Backlash, it only took him one night to capture the top prize in all of professional wrestling. 'The New Era' has officially been ushered in! Sami Zayn is WWE Champion!
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:16:16 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:16:43 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:21:34 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jan 24, 2018 18:21:57 GMT -5
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