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Post by Planktung on Jun 7, 2017 17:19:46 GMT -5
After the signature WWE intro, a video package took the NXT Universe back to TakeOver: Forever in December, the event where the underdogs rose to occasion and became champions. Bayley finally put Sasha Banks away to become the NXT Women's Champion, while Sami Zayn outlasted Kevin Owens in a Texas Deathmatch to capture the NXT Title. Zayn and Bayley had made it to the mountaintop at long last, but the shot of the two holding their respective titles faded to black as a voiceover reminded the viewers of reality. "Nothing truly lasts forever." The video then showed Emma betraying Bayley and aligning herself with Billie Kay and Peyton Royce, the three Australian superstars forming The Iconic Trio and vowing to take the NXT Women's Title away from Bayley. "I was the first NXT Women's Champion, and everyone just suddenly forgot about me when Bayley came along," Emma said, airing her frustrations over the NXT fans' admiration for Bayley. The video then cut to quick shots of Finn Balor, Hideo Itami and Pentagon. The three men who look to end Sami Zayn's run as the NXT Champion. "It took me over a year to finally have the NXT Championship in my possession and I'm letting it go for anything," said Zayn. Balor's voice could then be heard over clips of him in both his normal form and 'The Demon.' "I'm not afraid to go into dark places to get what I want. I came to NXT to become champion, and if unleashing my inner demon once again means leaving TakeOver with the gold, then the world will see 'The Demon' rise." Paul Heyman then began singing the praises of his client, Itami, like always. "Hideo Itami is the man who will beat John Cena at Battleground! Hideo Itami is the man who will dethrone the precious 'Underdog from the Underground' to claim the NXT Championship! Hideo Itami is the man who leads 'The New Era' into the future as the NXT Champion!" Lastly, the wild card of the match spoke about why he cannot be overlooked. "¡Nada importa a mí excepto el campeonato de NXT! ¡Los tres caerán a mis pies ya mi amo! Esta noche es la noche que tomo lo que es legítimamente mío! ¡Proque yo soy Pentágono! ¡Cero! ¡Miedo!" Who will leave as the NXT Champion and begin the next evolution of professional wrestling?
"And now... NXT TakeOver: R Evolution!" Following the introductory graphic, cameras hovered over the sold out audience in the CFE Arena for the first TakeOver event in Orlando outside of Full Sail University. The commentary duo of Rob Naylor and Josh Barnett welcomed the viewers on the WWE Network to TakeOver: R Evolution, which will see the most championship matches on a single night in NXT history. "The NXT Championship is on the line in a Fatal Four Way match with Sami Zayn, Finn Balor, Hideo Itami and Pentagon! Bayley defends the NXT Women's Title against Emma! Kota Ibushi looks to take the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Title back to New Japan when he meets Tyler Breeze in a rematch from Wrestle Kingdom! New superstars in the form of Magnus, Kyle O'Reilly and Tye Dillinger look to leave their marks..." Naylor said before he and Barnett turned around, the two noticing the audience cheering for something all of a sudden. Cameras then showed the assistant to Stephanie McMahon and Dario Cueto, Allie, walking into the arena and taking her seat in the front row. "Allie! Allie! Allie!" the NXT Universe chanted nonstop, Allie waving to everyone before sitting down with a notepad and pen, ready to take notes just like Dario asked her to on RAW this past Monday. While Allie is in attendance, one has to assume that Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle have their eyes on this evening as well to scout talent for SmackDown Live. A standout performance tonight could change someone's life for when the Draft arrives on April 10th. "Everyone is here for NXT TakeOver, including two of the best tag teams in the world who will settle the score in a Two-out-of-Three Falls match for the NXT Tag Team Championships!"
For the first time since TakeOver: Revision at the end of August, The Addiction stepped into an NXT Tag Team Championship match as the challengers. Christopher Daniels and Frankie Kazarian stepped out onto the stage to a massive ovation, the two dresses as a general and biker respectively. Daniels and Kazarian both had their arms behind their backs, the two eventually revealing that they each had Appletinis with them. The Addiction toasted the drinks before taking one sip each, the two then placing them down onto the stage before continuing on toward the ring. "In NXT's first match ever in Madison Square Garden, The Addiction came up short against Ricochet and Uhaa Nation. Tonight, they have their long-awaited rematch, and the stakes couldn't be any higher in a Two-out-of-Three Falls match," Josh Barnett said while Daniels and Kazarian entered the ring. Rob Naylor reminded the viewers at home how up to this point. The Addiction had taken out every team that stepped up to them. Finn Balor and Becky Lynch, PMA and even the current WWE Tag Team Champions, The Alpha Wolves. Now, the pressure was on them to become the first ever two-time NXT Tag Team Champions. Daniels and Kazarian waited patiently for the arrivals of Ricochet and Uhaa Nation, the champions soon to a new theme song, "Physical Education" by Animals As Leaders. The duo have spent 2014 thus far comfortably holding the titles, but now, their first defense was only seconds away on one of NXT's biggest stages to date. Ricochet and Uhaa handed over the Tag Team Titles, the official raising them before handing them off to ringside. Ricochet and Daniels started things off, the two locking up in a collar-and-elbow tie up. Daniels swept the right leg of Ricochet, quickly covering him for a one count. Ricochet dodged a Clothesline and springboarded off the second rope, launching into Daniels with an elbow strike. Daniels got back to his feet, only to be immediately hit with a Dropkick from Ricochet. Daniels made the tag to Kazarian, Ricochet charging into The Addiction's corner. Kazarian moved out of harm's way, Ricochet crashing into the top turnbuckle. Daniels held Ricochet's arms, allowing Kazarian to get a few free shots in on him. Kazarian brought Ricochet into the center of the ring, delivering a bodyslam and quick leg drop for a two count. Kazarian taunted Uhaa before whipping Ricochet into the ropes, bending down in anticipation for a Back Body Drop. Ricochet kicked Kazarian in the face and chest before making the tag to Uhaa. Kazarian missed a Clothesline to Uhaa, trying instead for a running Crossbody. Uhaa caught Kazarian in his arms, throwing him with an Overhead Slam into a corner. Uhaa followed up with a corner splash before heading to the top rope, Daniels trying to get a hold of his leg and distract him. Uhaa kicked Daniels away, but Kazarian was able to run onto the top rope and bring Uhaa down to the canvas with a DDT! Kazarian covered Uhaa, only managing to get a two count. Daniels was tagged back into the action, 'The Fallen Angel' going for a BME. Uhaa was able to get his knees up before crawling towards his corner to tag Ricochet back in. Ricochet springboarded into action with a Dropkick to Daniels before knocking Kazarian off of the apron. Ricochet hit a standing Shooting Star Press onto Daniels before running onto the top rope for a Moonsault of his own. Daniels was able to roll out of the way, but Ricochet managed to land on his feet. Daniels rose to his feet and took a kick to his mid-section, Ricochet attempting to follow up with a Sliced Bread. However, Daniels launched Ricochet to the outside, one-half of the NXT Tag Team Champions crashing hard onto the canvas. Uhaa went to check on his partner, but ate a running knee strike from Kazarian. Ricochet was quickly rolled back into the air, not allowed any time to recover. Daniels capitalized and planted Ricochet onto his front with the Angel's Wings, covering him to score the first of two necessary decisions in this match. Addiction - 1, Ricochet & Uhaa Nation - 0.
With The Addiction scoring the first fall, the pressure was now on Ricochet and Uhaa to get two decisions in a row and retain the NXT Tag Team Championships. The official made sure that Ricochet was ready to go before officially beginning the second phase of the match. Daniels kicked Ricochet repeatedly in the mid-section in a corner before Suplexing him in the center of the ring. Daniels made the tag to Kazarian, who flew into the ring with an Elbow Drop onto Ricochet. Uhaa broke up the pin attempt, the official forcing him back into his corner. Kazarian sat Ricochet up and kicked him in the back before running the ropes. Ricochet grabbed Kazarian's foot during another kick attempt, one-half of the defending champions pushing Kazarian's leg forward and causing him to face plant the canvas. Ricochet stood up and stomped onto the back of Kazarian before leaping into his corner to tag Uhaa. Uhaa came into the action and picked Kazarian up right off of the mat, showing off his strength before delivering a Gutwrench Suplex near the ropes. Kazarian rolled out of the ring, Uhaa running toward the ropes and diving over the top with a Tope Con Hilo! The crowd stood firmly behind Uhaa at the point, Uhaa rolling Kazarian into the ring. Uhaa headed to the top rope and went for a Shooting Star Press, Kazarian rolling out of the way. Uhaa, however, was able to land on his feet before running toward his adversary. Kazarian was able to stop Uhaa in his tracks, planting him with a Reverse STO into the second turnbuckle. Kazarian tagged in Daniels, who ran into Uhaa knees-first in the corner. "Worship us..." Daniels said to the audience in the CFE Arena before attempting the Best Moonsault Ever. To the surprise of Daniels, Uhaa stood up and caught him on his shoulder! Uhaa hit a Running Powerslam, Ricochet begging for the hot tag. Uhaa and Daniels both got to their feet at the same time, Uhaa sensing that 'The Fallen Angel' was behind him. Uhaa took his chances and jumped in the air with an Enziguri, catching Daniels right upside the head! Uhaa then tagged Ricochet in to the delight of the NXT Universe. Ricochet took Daniels down with a few Clotheslines before going after Kazarian, who wisely stepped off of the ring apron. Ricochet went back after Daniels, who kicked him in the mid-section. Daniels went for a DDT, but on the way down, Ricochet was able to prevent the top of his head from colliding with the mat. Ricochet showed off his unbelievable strength by deadlifting Daniels off of the mat for a Suplex! Kazarian ran into the ring, but Uhaa did the same and took him out with a shoulder tackle! Ricochet picked Daniels up onto his shoulders for a Fireman's Carry Kick, successfully delivering it and getting the pinfall to even the score. Addiction - 1, Ricochet & Uhaa Nation - 1.
"We're all tied up now! The next fall will determine who leaves TakeOver as the NXT Tag Team Champions!" Rob Naylor said over the red hot audience who were ready to watch The Addiction, Ricochet and Uhaa Nation battle it out in a sudden death scenario. As soon as Daniels rose to his feet, Ricochet and Uhaa attempted to strike with simultaneous Superkicks. Kazarian grabbed Uhaa's foot from underneath the bottom rope and pulled him out to ringside, throwing him into the barricade. Ricochet turned his attention from Daniels to Kazarian at the point, hitting him with a Suicide Dive. The official turned toward Kazarian and Uhaa, telling both men to get back into their corners. That small window where the official was not paying attention to the action paid dividends for Daniels, who kicked Ricochet with a low blow! Daniels locked Ricochet's arms in place and hit the Angel's Wings, covering him for what the NXT Universe believed would be the contest. Somehow, Ricochet was able to get his shoulder up at two! Daniels' shocked expression told the entire story as he couldn't believe that the maneuver that put Ricochet away earlier couldn't achieve the same feat when it mattered the most. Daniels tagged in Kazarian, the two going for their Celebrity Rehab finisher. Ricochet floated over Daniels and landed on his feet, stomping his feet onto the chest of Daniels and using his body to launch himself towards Kazarian. Ricochet sent Kazarian into the ropes with a Hurricanrana, Uhaa catching him with an elbow strike! Ricochet grabbed Kazarian for a German Suplex, Daniels latching onto him from behind with the same idea. Uhaa slid into the ring and wrapped his arms around Daniels' waist, three German Suplexes being executed at the same time! All four men were down on the canvas while the NXT Universe gave them a standing ovation, showing their appreciation for one of the most exhilarating NXT Tag Team Championship bouts to date. Even Allie was on her feet applauding the action before taking her pen and continuing to write down the necessary notes for Stephanie McMahon and Dario Cueto. Ricochet and Kazarian rose to their feet first, the two trying to deliver Superkicks to each other. They ended up getting their legs tied up, leading to Uhaa and Daniels giving Superkicks to Kazarian and Ricochet respectively. Daniels then hit Uhaa with a European Uppercut, Uhaa bouncing off of the ropes with a Discus Lariat! While Uhaa was on his knees, Kazarian tried striking him with his right knee. Uhaa caught him, though, holding him in place for a moment. Uhaa flipped Kazarian over, one-half of The Addiction managing to land on his feet. As soon as he did, he was caught with a Superkick from Uhaa to his face and another from Ricochet to the back of his head! Ricochet headed to the top rope, delivering a Shooting Star Press! Uhaa then took his own position on the top rope, soaring through the air with a 450 Splash onto Kazarian! Being the legal man in the contest, Ricochet headed back to the top rope to deliver the dagger in the form of a 630 Senton! After Ricochet landed it, he covered Kazarian while Uhaa prevented Daniels from making the save, the official counting three!
RICOCHET & UHAA NATION RETAIN THE NXT TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS! (2-1)
A standing ovation emerged post-match for not only Ricochet and Uhaa Nation for their first successful defenses of the NXT Tag Team Championships, but for The Addiction's valiant effort as well. Ricochet and Uhaa were handed back the NXT Tag Team Titles, the duo raising them before standing on the second rope in opposite corners. "When we were introduced to these two superstar at Unison in New York City, we knew they'd reach the mountain top extremely quickly. Now, they sit comfortably at the top of the NXT tag team division as champions after putting away arguably the brand's best team over the past year," Rob Naylor said. Ricochet and Uhaa headed up the entrance ramp, the two raising their championships one more time for the masses to see after an incredible Two-out-of-Three Falls match.
Backstage, Emma was shown in the locker room area, preparing for her NXT Women's Championship match tonight against Bayley. Alongside her were Billie Kay and Peyton Royce, the two other Iconic members giving Emma pep talks in preparation for the biggest match of her career. Cameras cut to the locker room of Bayley, who was shown sitting down and conversing Becky Lynch and Nicole Matthews. The six women will do battle in a WarGames match this Sunday, but tonight, the focus is the most coveted prize in the NXT women's division.
In the audience here in the CFE Arena, the WWE Tag Team Champions The Alpha Wolves were shown among the NXT Universe. Former NXT Tag Team Champions themselves, Davey Richards and Eddie Edwards couldn't help put appreciate the state of the NXT tag team division in the present after witnessing Ricochet, Uhaa Nation and The Addiction set the bar for the rest of the evening.
For the first time in NXT, the newly-signed Magnus would be competing in the squared circle. Magnus' entrance music hit as he made his way out to the stage, the fans in the CFE Arena not responding too kindly to him. Just like last week in Full Sail, Magnus brushed off the negative remarks and headed down to the ring, ready to show the world why he will be the NXT 'savior' as he believes. "He has an attitude. He oozes arrogance, but if Magnus can back up his words, that's what matters in that ring," Josh Barnett said regarding Magnus' brash personality that many haven't taken too kindly to. "And his opponent..." JoJo said while Magnus stood in a corner, preparing for the arrival of his adversary. Rich Swann's entrance music hit, the individual who had yet to pick up a victory in NXT making his way out to a reaction completely opposite of Magnus'. Swann stepped into the ring and stood across from Magnus, who stared at him with intense disdain. Before the bell sounded, Magnus asked for a microphone from ringside. "Are you kidding me?" he asked. "The savior of NXT shows up for the first time dressed to compete... And this is who I'm competing against? This joke? What's it going to take for me to get any respect around here? Huh? Why is this my competition? Can anybody explain that to me?" Throughout Magnus' promo, Swann tried stepping up to him, but the official kept him in his corner. "Whatever. Sooner or later, I'll be sitting on my throne as NXT's premiere superstar. Doesn't matter who you put up against me. I'll run through all of them." Magnus set the microphone down onto the ring apron, the bell then sounding. Magnus turned around and was immediately hit with a Spin Kick! Magnus fell to the canvas like dead weight, Swann covering him to pull off the upset in just a matter of seconds!
RICH SWANN DEFEATS MAGNUS!
"Oh my God! Rich Swann beat Magnus!" Rob Naylor screamed into his headset, every single person in the CFE Arena reacting with both joy and disbelief. Swann slowly rose to his feet, asking the official if what just happened really played out the way he thought it did. Swann had his arm raised in victory, on the verge of tears after picking up his first victory in NXT and completely ruining Magnus' debut. Several stunned facial expression in the crowd were displayed, including Allie, whose jaw was just about on the floor. The replay of the entire match was shown, Swann proving that it only takes one move and three seconds to turn your life around in a professional wrestling match. "Rich Swann, who I'm not even sure has an official contract with WWE, just pinned Magnus in five seconds!" Josh Barnett said after receiving word of the total match time. Throughout Swann's entire celebration, Magnus remained down on the canvas, the newcomer knocked out cold from Swann's Spin Kick. Magnus was eventually helped out of the ring by two officials and escorted up the entrance ramp. When Magnus regains consciousness and realizes what happened, who knows when or even if he'll decide to show his face in NXT again? Tonight at TakeOver, Rich Swann seized the biggest opportunity of his career and has established himself as a superstar in NXT!
Following the shocker of the evening with Rich Swann defeating Magnus in five seconds, the NXT Universe came alive once again with the entrance of Tye Dillinger. The 'Ten!' chants were in full effect in the CFE Arena, Rob Naylor noting that despite Dillinger's villainous behavior since his re-debut as 'The Perfect Ten,' the fans have gotten behind him thoroughly. "Maybe it's because 'Ten' is such an infectious chant, or maybe it's because Tye Dillinger is the real deal in the ring. Either way, the NXT fans have made an unlikely favorite out of Tye Dillinger," Josh Barnett said before adding that those same fans have suddenly turned against Dillinger's opponent. When Kyle O'Reilly's new entrance theme - "Enemy" by Our Last Night - hit, the fans that packed the CFE Arena either turned to silence or boos for O'Reilly, who at one point had the support of everybody. O'Reilly paid no attention to his negative response and focused solely on Dillinger. When O'Reilly slid into the ring, he instantly shot a double leg takedown. O'Reilly fired away with strikes to the forehead of Dillinger, the NXT Universe not taking too kindly to O'Reilly's offense. "Kyle sucks!" chants filled the atmosphere as Dillinger was able to roll out of the ring. O'Reilly headed out to the ring apron, running towards Dillinger and nearly taking his head off with a kick. O'Reilly rolled Dillinger into the ring before heading to the top rope, coming down with a Missile Dropkick. O'Reilly kicked Dillinger in the head a few times as the latter crawled into a corner. "Maybe O'Reilly's taking the crowd reactions personally. We've never seen this kind of aggression from him, even going back to his match at the last TakeOver with Adam Cole," Barnett said. O'Reilly hit Dillinger with a few knife edge chops before backing away. O'Reilly tried charging into Dillinger with a running European Uppercut, but 'The Perfect Ten' moved out of harm's way. Dillinger ran into O'Reilly with a forearm strike before taking him down to the canvas with an Arm Drag. O'Reilly held his lower back while Dillinger performed a cart wheel before flashing his ten fingers in the face of his adversary. O'Reilly grabbed one of Dillinger's arms and attempted to apply a Cross Armbreaker, but Dillinger was able to turn it into a pinning predicament that O'Reilly kicked out of. Dillinger grabbed O'Reilly for what looked to be a Suplex, but O'Reilly fought out of it. O'Reilly planted Dillinger with a Russian Leg Sweep before stomping both of his feet onto the side of his face. O'Reilly applied a Dragon Sleeper, the official continuously asking Dillinger if he wanted to submit. The fans in the CFE Arena began a 'Ten!' chant, trying to rally behind Dillinger and give him the strength to fight out of the hold. Dillinger latched both of his hands onto the back of O'Reilly's head, using his opponent as a base to use and help lift himself off of the canvas. Dillinger landed on his feet behind O'Reilly, delivering an Inverted DDT! Dillinger got the cover, but O'Reilly was able to get a shoulder up at two. Dillinger backed away from O'Reilly, sizing him up for a Superkick. O'Reilly, however, was able to catch Dillinger's foot. O'Reilly attempted a Roundhouse Kick, but Dillinger dodged it. Dillinger hit O'Reilly with the Superkick that he had been looking for before bringing him down to the mat with his legs. Dillinger pulled out a new trick and applied a Sharpshooter! The NXT Universe begged O'Reilly to tap out, Naylor noting how ironic it would be if Dillinger made a submission specialist give up. O'Reilly was able to scratch and claw his way to the bottom rope, the fans becoming disheartened. Dillinger released the hold and picked O'Reilly up, the latter turning the tables by sending 'The Perfect Ten' throat-first into the top rope. Dillinger backed into a German Suplex from O'Reilly, who then hoisted Dillinger up for a Brainbuster. O'Reilly planted Dillinger onto the back of his head, covering him for what was only another two count. O'Reilly grew even more frustrated than he was coming into the match, trying to finish Dillinger off as soon as possible. "O'Reilly isn't even going for the submission victory that he usually looks for. He just wants to hurt Dillinger and get this match over with by any means," Barnett noted on commentary. O'Reilly placed Dillinger on the top turnbuckle, trying to go for a Brainbuster off of there. Dillinger retaliated with strikes and headbutts, O'Reilly crashing into the center of the ring. Dillinger landed a perfect Elbow Drop onto O'Reilly before he stood up, pulling down his knee pad to signal that it was time for the Tye Breaker. Dillinger placed O'Reilly onto his shoulders, looking for his finishing maneuver. O'Reilly, however, was able to wrap his legs around Dillinger's waist, trying to apply a Kimura. O'Reilly nearly had the hold cinched in before Dillinger rammed him into a corner. The now free Dillinger ran towards O'Reilly, who was able to fend him off with the sole of his boot. O'Reilly charged into Dillinger, who counted whatever O'Reilly had in mind by lifting him onto his shoulders. "Tye Breaker!" Naylor shouted after Dillinger hit it, covering O'Reilly to put him away!
TYE DILLINGER DEFEATS KYLE O'REILLY!
The fans in the CFE Arena erupted as Tye Dillinger rose to his feet, his arm being raised in victory after managing to defeat Kyle O'Reilly. "No controversy. No shenanigans. Tye Dillinger pinned Kyle O'Reilly in the center of the squared circle, and no matter how we may feel about him, Tye earned this one," Rob Naylor said, giving credit where credit was due to 'The Perfect Ten.' Dillinger stood on the second rope, looking out into the sea of NXT Universe members who were relentlessly chanting 'Ten!' loudly and repeatedly. Even Allie threw all ten of her fingers up in the front row, showing the camera that her page of notes for the match-up simply said "10." Several replays from the match were shown, the focus seeming to be O'Reilly's growing frustrations. "O'Reilly focused on hurting Dillinger, not beating him. That's why 'The Perfect Ten' is leaving TakeOver as the winner and not O'Reilly," said Josh Barnett. Dillinger headed up the entrance ramp, continuing to throw up the ten fingers along with the rest of the NXT Universe in the CFE Arena for TakeOver: R Evolution!
A promo was shown for WWE Battleground, which will see the return of the WarGames match as Team AJ Styles takes on Team Derrick Bateman, and Team AJ Lee square off with Team Alexa Bliss. Plus, John Cena and Hideo Itami clash in a dream match. The Miz defends the United States Championship against a wounded Daniel Bryan. The first-ever WWE Monster's Ball match takes place with Samoa Joe, Braun Strowman, Baron Corbin and Rusev slugging it out. And The Alpha Wolves defend the WWE Tag Team Championships against The New Day in the conclusion of the Best-of-Seven Series. The promo concluded with several black and white shots of Paige being shown before cutting to darkness. "You can't kill me," said a voiceover from 'The Anit-Diva.' Battleground is live this Sunday on Pay-Per-View and the WWE Network.
Back in the CFE Arena for NXT TakeOver: R Evolution, Rob Naylor and Josh Barnett put over the incredible action that the world had witnessed thus far. "While NXT continues to make history and change the landscape of professional wrestling, another platform on the WWE Network will do the same this spring and summer," Naylor said, referring to the Cruiserweight Classic. 32 of the top Cruiserweights in the world will meet in a single elimination tournament beginning on April 16th and concluding on June 25th. "And get ready," Josh Barnett said. "Because the Semi-Finals and Finals of the CWC will be broadcasted live on the WWE Network in this very building! The CFE Arena!" he said, asking the NXT Universe to mark their calendars for June 25th. "Among those 32 competitors is the man who up next will be looking to take the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship back to New Japan Pro Wrestling," Naylor said as the graphic appeared for Kota Ibushi's rematch with Tyler Breeze. The video package that featured Memphis May Fire's "This Light I Hold" began with highlights of Breeze and Ibushi's match at Wrestle Kingdom, along with short interview bits from both men. It was in the Tokyo Dome where Breeze captured the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship, citing it as revenge on New Japan Pro Wrestling after the organization allowed Kazuchika Okada to appear at NXT TakeOver: Forever, where 'The Rainmaker' pinned Breeze. "I feel the spotlight. I see their eyes. They lit a fire just to burn me alive." Breeze returned to NXT with his newfound championship, only to be informed that he would be defending against Ibushi in a rematch at TakeOver: R Evolution. "I'm here and I'm not leaving until I'm finished," was the line of the song that synched up with footage of Ibushi's Full Sail debut a few weeks back. Ibushi proved that he can get the job done in Breeze's territory, eliminating the home field advantage that 'Prince Pretty' assumed he'd have. If Ibushi cannot reclaim the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship, who knows what the future holds for New Japan as long as Breeze holds their title? "This story is my own and this light I hold will glow. This light I hold will glow."
From the first note of Kota Ibushi's entrance music, it was clear who the NXT fans in the CFE Arena were behind for this contest. Ibushi made his way out to the stage, the former IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion looking out into the sea of fans who were very familiar with his previous work in New Japan Pro Wrestling, as well as DDT. "Ibushi's 2014 started off on the wrong foot, losing the Jr. Heavyweight Title to Tyler Breeze. He has the chance to return the gold to New Japan and head into the Cruiserweight Classic in two months with all of the momentum in the world," Josh Barnett stated as Ibushi stepped foot in the ring. 'The Golden Star' waited in a corner, the lights soon dimming as a video was projected onto the titantron. Shibuya Crossing at night was shown, the camera panning down to show citizens of Tokyo roaming the streets. Tyler Breeze stepped into the picture, 'Prince Pretty' holding the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Title on his shoulder. Breeze slowly lifted his arm to reveal his patented selfie stick. When Breeze snapped the selfie, the video cut out and his entrance music began playing. "Look, everyone! It's Tyler!" Breeze walked out onto the stage in an outfit that could not have fit his 'King of Cuteville' persona any more. Breeze not only had a crown and fur coat, but his selfie stick was designed as a scepter. Breeze made his way down to the ring, unstrapping the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Title and showing it off in front of Ibushi before handing it off to the official. After the pre-match introductions, both men were brought into the center of the ring, the championship being raised one more time before the bell sounded. Immediately, Breeze jammed his thumb into the right eye of Ibushi. Breeze attacked the blinded Ibushi before being backed away by the official. Breeze charged towards Ibushi, who was still able to sidestep him. Ibushi leaped onto Breeze's shoulders, taking him down with a Frankensteiner. Breeze rolled out of the ring, 'Prince Pretty' needing a moment to catch his breath. Regardless, Ibushi still ran towards a corner, hopping over the top rope and soaring through the air with a Moonsault! Ibushi brought Breeze back into the ring, trying to pick him up for a German Suplex. Breeze countered it into a pinning predicament, Ibushi able to kick out at two. When both men got up to their feet, Ibushi caught Breeze in the left thigh with a kick. He delivered one to the other leg before hitting the defending champion with a few repeated slaps. Ibushi attempted a backhand strike, but Breeze ducked it. Breeze took Ibushi down to the canvas by his legs and slingshotted him into a corner, Ibushi unexpectedly landing on the second rope. Ibushi jumped onto the top rope, coming down with another Moonsault. Ibushi got the cover, Breeze able to hang on and stay in this contest. Ibushi waited for Breeze to get to his feet before sending him into the corner with knife edge chops. Ibushi tried Irish Whipping Breeze into the opposite corner, but Breeze kept a grip on Ibushi's wrist. Breeze locked his arms around Ibushi's waist, moving him forward for what looked to be the set up to Kazuchika Okada's Rainmaker. Instead of hitting a Lariat, Breeze caught Ibushi right on the jaw with a Supermodel Kick! Breeze got the cover, but somehow, Ibushi was still able to get a shoulder up! The defending champion grew concerned over just what it would take to put Ibushi away. Breeze got right back up to his feet, whipping Ibushi into the ropes. Breeze went for the Beauty Shot, but Ibushi managed to catch him in his arms. Ibushi planted Breeze's feet onto the ground, allowing him to execute the German Suplex! Ibushi held onto Breeze and tried going for another one, 'Prince Pretty' hanging on to the top rope. Ibushi eventually lifted Breeze over his head, but Breeze was able to stick the landing. Breeze then got a measure of revenge on Ibushi for one of his maneuvers earlier by hitting a reverse Frankensteiner, Ibushi landing right on the top of his cranium! Ibushi somehow got right back up to his feet, catching Breeze with a Roundhouse Kick! The fans in the CFE Arena roared for the exhilarating action as Ibushi picked Breeze up for the Last Ride Powerbomb. Ibushi got Breeze up onto his shoulders, but Breeze retaliated with strikes to the head. Ibushi backed into a corner, Breeze standing on the second rope while whaling away. Ibushi was able to slide underneath Breeze's legs, Dropkicking him in his back. Ibushi placed Breeze back onto his shoulders, this time successfully delivering the Last Ride Powerbomb! However, Ibushi didn't immediately go for the cover as he laid back down onto the mat, holding his head in agony. An instant replay of the Last Ride Powerbomb showed that on his way down, Breeze actually smacked both his legs against the side of Ibushi's head. Ibushi crawled towards Breeze to get the cover, the champion able to stay alive. Ibushi then dragged Breeze closer to a corner as he intended on finishing him off with the Phoenix Splash. Breeze was able to move out of harm's way, causing Ibushi to crash hard onto the canvas. When Ibushi got to his knees, Breeze connected with another Supermodel Kick! Ibushi used the ropes to get to his feet, Breeze deliver another kick to the head! Ibushi was lifeless in the corner as Breeze hit him with two more Supermodel Kicks, making the total four at that point. Breeze whipped the dazed Ibushi into the ropes, catching him with the Beauty Shot off of the rebound. Breeze covered Ibushi and hooked both legs, finally putting 'The Golden Star' away for good.
TYLER BREEZE RETAINS THE IWGP JR. HEAVYWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP!
A mixed reaction could be heard coming from the NXT Universe in the CFE Arena as Tyler Breeze rose to his feet, the official handing him back the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship. "Hail to the king," Breeze said to the hard camera as he hoisted the championship above his head while placing one foot on the chest of Ibushi. Several replays from the match were shown, Rob Naylor and Josh Barnett both agreeing that Breeze and Ibushi somehow managed to top their Wrestle Kingdom match that had already set the bar incredibly high. Back in the CFE Arena, Breeze was shown at ringside with his selfie stick, asking Allie to smile for the camera. Allie did so before Breeze's face turned to an expression of disgust, perhaps deeming the RAW Assistant as "not worthy" of being in the same shot with him after all. Breeze headed up the entrance ramp with his scepter-styled selfie stick in one hand, and the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship in the other.
A promo was shown for WrestleMania XXX, featuring one of the official theme songs, "Throne" by Bring Me the Horizon. The biggest WrestleMania in history is live Sunday April 6th from New Orleans, only on Pay-Per-View and the WWE Network.
Returning to NXT TakeOver: Revision, a split-screen shot of Emma and the NXT Women's Champion Bayley was shown, the two preparing to do battle in just a few moments. "For Bayley, this is about continuing her cinderella story. For Emma, this is about reminding the world why she is the reason for the Women's Revolution," Rob Naylor said before the graphic for the match-up transitioned into a video package. "All You Are Is History" by State Champs began playing, the video beginning with Bayley's becoming of NXT Women's Champion at TakeOveR: Forever by defeating Sasha Banks in what many fans consider to have been the 2013 NXT Match of the Year. During Bayley's ascension to the top of the women's division, Emma remained sidelined with an injury just a few months after becoming the inaugural Women's Champion. When Emma was last active, the landscape featured superstars such as herself, Bayley and Sasha Banks. Now, a sea of new talent emerged into the division, including two of Emma's closest friends from Australia. During the contract signing for the match, Emma shocked the world by betraying Bayley and aligning herself with Billie Kay and Peyton Royce, the three of them forming Iconic. "You've got the right be all that you wanna be, and that's extraordinary. Is it worth the risk?" Iconic have since made targets out of not only Bayley, but Becky Lynch and The Canadian Ninjas as well, even injuring Portia Perez. Iconic, Bayley, Becky and Nicole have all agreed to partake in this Sunday's WarGames match as members of Team Alexa Bliss and Team AJ Lee respectively, but tonight, the NXT Women's Championship is the focus. "Talk like you're self assured but all you are is history." NXT's most popular female superstar meets the first ever Women's Champion in one of the biggest matches to date in the division. "I'm a realist and an optimist, but I swear to you, I'm not getting over this."
After the completion of the video package, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce stepped out onto the stage, the NXT fans in the CFE Arena immediately booing both women. "Ladies and gentlemen, stand up and put your hands together for the superstar who is about to become the only two-time NXT Women's Champion in history. 'The NXT Original,' Emma!" Billie said before she and Peyton both started clapping. Emma's new theme song - "Dancing on Nails" by We Are Harlot - sounded as she stepped out onto the stage, looking out at the sea of fans that once supported her. "Emma sold her soul for this opportunity. At one point, she was the most beloved competitor in the NXT women's division. Now, these fans in attendance and those watching around the world on the WWE Network want nothing more than to see Bayley crush her dreams of holding the NXT Women's Championship for the second time," Rob Naylor said. Emma, Billie and Peyton marched down to the ring, the latter two actually holding down the second rope for the number one contender. Emma stood on the second rope, scoffing at those in the audience who continued to boo her. As Emma waited in the ring for her adversary, she and the rest of Iconic became annoyed by the crowd chants of, "Ay, we want some Bayley!" The chants continued until Bayley's theme song hit, the audience just about blowing the roof off of the CFE Arena. Bayley made her way out to the stage, showing Iconic that she was not alone as Becky Lynch and Nicole Matthews accompanied her. "We might see WarGames tonight," Josh Barnett commented on the likelihood of this match breaking out into chaos. Becky, Nicole, Billie and Peyton remained at ringside while the pre-match introductions took place, both Emma and Bayley never once taking their eyes off of the NXT Women's Championship. After the bell finally sounded, both competitors circled the canvas for a bit. They eventually locked up, Emma pushing Bayley into the ropes. Billie and Peyton held the top rope down, Bayley falling over and out onto the floor. Becky and Nicole made their way over to that side of the ring, Billie and Peyton immediately backing down from them. Emma grabbed Bayley and slammed her face onto the surface of the announce table a few times before sending her back-first into the ring apron. Emma rolled Bayley back into the ring, dropping a knee onto her face. Emma got the cover, but Bayley was able to kick out relatively quickly. Emma sat Bayley up before running the ropes and Dropkicking her. Emma pinned Bayley yet again, receiving the same results as before. Emma brought Bayley up to her feet, the defending champion retaliating with several elbow strikes to the mid-section. Bayley Irish Whipped Emma into the ropes, Becky and Nicole returning the favor by holding down the top rope. After Emma fell out onto the floor, Billie and Peyton finally confronted the two crowd favorites. Unlike Iconic, Becky and Nicole didn't back down. The four women exchanged words before Bayley shouted, "Move!" Becky and Nicole looked up and saw Bayley leaping over the top rope. They were able to move out of the way in time, but Billie and Peyton weren't so lucky. Bayley took out the both of them before rolling Emma back into the ring. Bayley headed to the top rope, delivering an Elbow Drop that was good enough for a two count. Bayley clapped her hands several times to get the fans to rally behind her. Emma stood up against a corner, Bayley charging into her with an elbow strike. Bayley tried going for the Bayley-to-Belly, but Emma caught her with a headbutt to free herself. Emma took Bayley and rammed her shoulder-first into the steel ring post before rolling her up. Emma had her feet on the middle the rope, the official noticing after Becky and Nicole brought it to his attention. Emma glanced at Becky and Nicole with disgust before trying to return to the attack. Bayley surprised Emma by rolling her up with an inside cradle. Emma managed to kick out just in the nick of time, both competitors getting to their feet simultaneously. The two took each other out with Clotheslines, remaining down on the canvas for a bit. Bayley and Emma stood up and exchanged strikes, causing back-and-forth "Yeah!" and "Boo!" chants from the crowd. Emma soon kneed Bayley in the mid-section to get the upper hand before planting her with a DDT. Emma covered Bayley, but the Women's Champion managed to kick out. Emma then lifted Bayley up for a Suplex, bouncing herself legs off the top rope and pretty much planting her onto her head. Bayley once again was able to kick out of Emma's pin attempt, the challenger growing more and more frustrated. Emma made her way over to a corner, removing the top turnbuckle padding. The official reprimanded her before trying to put the padding back on. During that, Billie and Peyton dragged Bayley out to ringside, the two Iconic members beating down the champion. Becky and Nicole got involved, taking the fight to Billie and Peyton. The four women brawled to the backstage area, taking them out of the equation and leaving only the two competitors remaining. The official had turned his attention to the ringside scuffle before re-attaching the padding to the turnbuckle, leaving it exposed. Emma took Bayley and tried ramming her head into the turnbuckle, but Bayley prevented it by planting her foot onto the second rope. Bayley hit Emma with an elbow upside her head before once again going for the Bayley-to-Belly. Emma was able to counter it into an Armdrag, Bayley being sent face-first into the exposed turnbuckle! The champion collapsed to the canvas, Emma bringing her into the center of the ring to apply the Emma Lock! The official asked Bayley if she wanted to submit, but received no answer since the champion was out cold. The official then picked Bayley's arm up and watched it fall back down onto the mat like nothing. He called for the bell, bringing the match to a shocking conclusion.
EMMA IS THE NEW NXT WOMEN'S CHAMPION!
The fans that packed the CFE Arena stood up and watched on in shock at the outcome of the contest. "The winner of this match... And NEW NXT Women's Champion, Emma!" was the official announcement from JoJo as Emma rose to her feet, taking back the championship. "I! Told! You! So!" Emma shouted as she raised the Women's Title, becoming the only superstar in history to do so twice. "This... This isn't right. After Bayley's feel good story that led her to the NXT Women's Championship... She lost in her first defense because of Billie Kay, Peyton Royce and underhanded tactics from Emma," Rob Naylor said, the tone in his voice showing his disappointment. Several young girls in the audience were shown either crying or on the verge of doing so. Emma stood on the second rope and raised the championship, even Allie unable to believe what she was seeing from the front row. "Emma doesn't deserve this. She stole the title from Bayley. Somebody has to do something about this. This is BS," said Josh Barnett, the majority of fans agreeing with him as they literally chanted, "Bullshit!" Emma mocked the fans by pretending to wipe away tears as she walked back up the entrance ramp after becoming the only two-time NXT Women's Champion in history. Now, Team Alexa Bliss holds both Women's Titles heading into WarGames on Sunday. Emma has given 'Five Feet of Fury' all of the momentum in the world, and Bayley the biggest the heartbreak of the century. Emma is the new NXT Women's Champion!
Backstage, NXT Champion Sami Zayn was shown heading toward the gorilla position, the championship resting around his waist for now. After Bayley's shocking loss to Emma, was the other beloved champion about to lose his gold? "Three challengers await Sami Zayn, and they just happen to be three of the best professional wrestlers in the world today," Josh Barnett said while Zayn let out a deep breath. He's not nervous, but he knows that he's heading into the biggest challenge of his career. Even more than his encounters with Kevin Owens. Was it time for 'The Underdog from the Underground' to prove his doubters wrong, or was it time to crown a new NXT Champion in either Finn Balor, Hideo Itami or Pentagon?
"Burning Bridges" by The New Low kicked in at the start of the video package that highlighted Sami Zayn's journey to the NXT Championship that culminated in his first victory over Kevin Owens at TakeOver: Forever in a Texas Deathmatch. Zayn finally capture the title that alluded him for over a year, but as some in the industry will tell you, winning it is much easier than keeping it. At the start of the year, Triple H announced that at TakeOver: R Evolution, Zayn would be defending the NXT Championship against three challengers. Finn Balor, one of the most captivating superstars to hit NXT. 'The Demon' is a former NXT Tag Team Champion along with one of the other challengers in this contest, Hideo Itami. As one of Paul Heyman's clients, Itami has the biggest week of his career ahead of him as he competes for the gold tonight before meeting John Cena in a dream match at Battleground. Lastly, the wild card in the match. Pentagon, a former AAA star who has taken out everyone in his path. Pentagon will not only beat you, but literally leave your body broken with one snap of your arm. "It takes two to tango, but it only takes one to make it fall apart." Zayn's entire career has led him to tonight where he defends the NXT Championship for the first time. With only a 25% chance of walking out as champion, 'The Underdog from the Underground' is ready to the biggest challenge he's ever faced. The video package concluded with final words from all four competitors before they do battle. "At TakeOver, 'The Demon' will rise and become champion." "I left Japan for the NXT Championship, and I will get what I came here for at TakeOver. "¡El Campeonato NXT será mío! Cero miedo!" "The only way I'm leaving TakeOver without my championship is if I'm dead."
After the completion of the video package, a certain former WWE superstar was shown sitting in the audience as the NXT Universe reacted with shock to the sight of him. "Are you kidding me?" Josh Barnett said when John Morrison was shown in the CFE Arena. "A former Intercontinental, ECW and Tag Team Champion. 'The Shaman of Sexy' is at TakeOver!" Rob Naylor stated while Morrison smirked at the camera, ready to enjoy the NXT Championship match just like everyone else watching around the world.
The lights in the arena shut as smoke emerged from the stage, Maxine soon walking out into the darkness. Behind her were several Dia De Los Muertos figures, all carrying a casket. An overhead shot revealed Pentagon to be lying down in the casket, his eyes shut with his arms folded across his chest. Maxine led the casket down the entrance ramp before coming to a stop. The casket was placed on the ground as the entrance music of Pentagon sounded. Pentagon then sat up in the casket, giving the "Cero Miedo" gesture to the camera. Pentagon stood up and exited the casket, the fans in the CFE Arena chanting "Cero Miedo!" repeatedly to show their support for him. "Something about Pentagon has captured the hearts of the NXT Universe. He's mysterious. He's cold-hearted. He's as evil as they come, which may play into his favor tonight," Josh Barnett said while Pentagon entered the ring, donning a predominantly black attire. Maxine joined Pentagon in the ring, the two ready to take out the competition and force another title change here tonight in the name of his unknown master.
"Ladies and gentlemen!" said Paul Heyman as walked through the curtain and into the CFE Arena to the delight of the fans in attendance. "Ladies and gentlemen, allow me to introduce to you all the hottest superstar in NXT today! The man who will not only kick John Cena's head off this Sunday at Battleground, but will also walk out of here tonight as the new NXT Champion by obliterating the competition, and that includes you, Pentagon. The next NXT Champion, Hideo Itami!" shouted Heyman as he pointed to the entranceway. Itami stepped out onto the stage, wearing a red Oni mask. Itami and Heyman walked down to the ring, Pentagon and Maxine keeping their eyes locked on them. Itami removed his mask and came face-to-face with Pentagon, the official needing to step in between them. Maxine continued to stare down Heyman, both managers realizing the capabilities of the other to change the course of this contest.
While Itami and Pentagon continued to attempt to intimidate the other, the lights in the CFE Arena shut while red lights flickered. The ominous intro of Finn Balor's 'Demon' remix of his entrance music progressed while more smoke emerged from the stage. A figure could be seen crawling through the smoke, the NXT Universe erupting. When Balor's entrance music finally kicked in, he stood up and showed the world his Demon persona for the first time since Unison back in September. Balor had the names of his opponents tonight written on his stomach, all of them crossed out. Pentagon and Itami took their focus off of one another and placed it onto Balor as they watched 'The Demon' slowly make his way down to the squared circle. Balor knelt down in a corner, his eyes moving back-and-froth between Pentagon and Itami. "'The Demon' is here, and he's not leaving without the NXT Championship."
Balor, Itami and Pentagon had all entered the battlefield, leaving only one superstar left to join them. The "Ole!" chants echoed throughout the CFE Arena as the fans anxiously awaited the arrival of their beloved NXT Champion. Sami Zayn's entrance music finally sounded to the loudest ovation of the evening. "Let's go!" Zayn and the NXT Universe shouted together as the NXT Champion made his way down to the ring, all three of his challengers eying him intensively. Zayn stood on the ring apron and raised the title, mouthing the words, "Come and take it" to his opponents. Zayn handed the NXT Title to the official, confident that it wouldn't be the final time he hold the gold. A spotlight was placed on the ring as the pre-match introductions occurred, the fans and superstars alike ready to begin the biggest match in NXT history.
At the sound of the bell, Pentagon and Itami immediately went after each other, the two trading strikes before Itami Clotheslined Pentagon over the top rope. Itami exited the ring, he and Pentagon resuming their battle. In the ring, Zayn and Balor stood across from each other, staring one other down as the fans in the CFE Arena went wild for the dream match-up that was about to take place. "You're not taking this from me," Zayn said to Balor before striking him 'The Demon' returning the favor. Pentagon lifted Itami off of his feet and brought him down sternum-first onto the barricade before hitting a knife edge chop that could be heard throughout the entire arena. "Cero miedo, cabron!" Pentagon yelled into Itami's face before throwing him against the steel ring post. Itami retaliated with a knife edge chop of his own to Itami before the cameras returned to Zayn and Balor's meeting in the ring. Zayn perched Balor onto the top turnbuckle, but was kicked away. Balor descended with a Missile Dropkick, covering Zayn for a two count. "Pentagon and Itami need to keep in mind that falls don't count anywhere. While they're beating the hell out of each other at ringside, Zayn or Balor can win this match," Barnett noted. Pentagon tried to whipping Itami into the ring steps, but ended up having it turned against him. After Pentagon collided with the steps, Itami slid into the ring. He took both Zayn and Balor down with Clotheslines before throwing Balor out to ringside. Itami hoisted Zayn on his shoulders for the Burning Hammer, trying to finish the contest as quickly as he could. Zayn fought back and forced Itami against the ropes, Balor grabbing his ankles from underneath the bottom rope. Balor pulled Itami out to ringside, the two former NXT Tag Team Champions battling it out and resuming their rivalry. Zayn launched himself out of the ring a Tope Con Hilo, taking out both Balor and Zayn. The three of them were down while Pentagon headed to the top rope, shaking his shoulder off since he was still feeling the effects of the steel ring steps. Pentagon soared through the air with a Senton that took out all three of his opponents! The fans cheered Pentagon on as he rolled Zayn into the ring and covered him, trying to capture the victory off of the champion. Zayn was able to get his shoulder up, Pentagon grabbing his arm and trying to lock it in place to snap it. "No, no, no!" Naylor exclaimed when it looked like Zayn was about to suffer a broken arm. Itami entered the ring and kicked Pentagon in the chest, saving Zayn in the process. Itami hit Pentagon with a few slaps before delivering a backhand strike, Pentagon becoming dazed. Balor crept behind Itami and rolled him up, only getting a two count out of it. Itami kicked Balor in the mid-section and threw him into Pentagon before planting 'The Demon' with a Saito Suplex. Itami then stepped onto the second rope and began unloading with strikes to Pentagon. During that sequence, Pentagon was able to slide out of the corned and tuck Itami's head against the top turnbuckle. Pentagon drilled him with a Superkick, covering him for the near fall that was broken up by Balor. Pentagon and Balor exchanged strikes before both were hit with a Crossbody from Zayn, who then kicked Itami out of the ring to try to shorten the number of opponents that he needed to deal with. Zayn placed Pentagon in a corner before Irish Whipping Balor into him. Zayn charged into both men, crashing into them. He brought Balor into the center of the ring and delivered a Suplex before going back after Pentagon. The defending champion tried to send Pentagon back into the corner with an Exploder Suplex, but Pentagon fought him off with elbow strikes. Pentagon ran the ropes and nearly took Zayn's head off with a Clothesline before Balor charged into him. Balor and Pentagon fell out to ringside, 'The Demon' dodging a Clothesline. Balor hit Pentagon with a Sling Blade onto the surface of the announce table, Pentagon laying on top of it. Balor glanced over to the ring post, 'The Demon' heading over to the top rope. "Balor's going up high!" Naylor called as Balor ascended to the top rope, looking down at Pentagon with the NXT Universe behind him. Balor jumped off of the top rope and landed on Pentagon with Coup de Grâce through the table! Both superstars remained down while the "holy shit!" chants commenced. Back in the ring, Itami went after Zayn, who was able to fend him off. Zayn grabbed Itami's hand and tried to walk the ropes for a Tornado DDT. Itami instead caught Zayn and delivered a Belly-to-Back Suplex into the center of the ring. Itami got to his feet and notice Zayn motionless in front of him, an idea suddenly hatching in his mind. Itami picked up his hand to show five fingers, the fans in the CFE Arena going wild as they knew what was coming. "No way," Naylor said as Itami told Zayn, "You can't see me." Itami ran the ropes and delivered the Five Knuckle Shuffle, mocking his opponent at Battleground on Sunday! Itami got the cover, but Balor surprised him by running into the ring and stomping both of his feet onto his back. 'The Demon' waited for Itami to get to his feet before Dropkicking him into a corner. Balor headed up to the top rope for another Coup de Grâce, but Zayn was able to shove him off. Zayn exited the ring and circled around, leaping through the opening between the bottom and middle ropes for a Tornado DDT to Balor! Back in the ring, Pentagon went after Itami, trying to take him down to the canvas to snap his arm. Itami, however was able to counter it into position for a Burning Hammer. Pentagon raked the eyes of Itami, getting back to his feet and delivering the Pentagon Driver! Pentagon got the cover and undoubtedly had the victory, but Heyman pulled the referee out of the ring! The NXT Universe were relentless to Heyman, showering him with boos. Maxine confronted Heyman, absolutely irate that Heyman had cost Pentagon the victory there. The two had a verbal exchange that ended when Pentagon gently moved Maxine out of the way, confronting Heyman on his own. The fear in Heyman's eyes was evident as he stood across from, ironically, the man with zero fear. Pentagon went for a Superkick, but Heyman moved out of the way and he ended up hitting Allie! "Pentagon just Superkicked Allie!" Barnett shouted into his headset, Allie falling back onto her chair, her notepad flying over the barricade. When Pentagon turned around, Itami leaped off of the ring apron and drilled him with a knee to his head and chest. Itami looked underneath the ring, bringing out a steel guard rail. Itami positioned the guard rail on the barricade and ring apron, practically making a table out of it. Itami grabbed Pentagon and brought him onto the ring apron, Pentagon trying to fight back. The two exchanged blows before Itami delivered a Roundhouse Kick. Itami propped the groggy Pentagon onto shoulders, hitting the Burning Hammer onto the guard rail! Pentagon slid off of the guard rail and fell onto the canvas, remaining motionless thereafter. Itami re-entered the ring and grabbed Zayn, trying to finish him off with another Burning Hammer. Balor slid back into the ring and Dropkicked Itami in the corner, Zayn falling off of his shoulders. Itami rolled out of the ring as Balor headed to the top rope, Zayn in his sights for one last high-risk maneuver. Balor went for the Coup de Grâce, but Zayn was able to evade it. Zayn rose to his feet and caught Balor for the Exploder Suplex, sending him into the corner with it! Zayn backed away and geared up for the Helluva Kick, Naylor and Barnett both believing that Zayn was about to do the unthinkable and retain his title. However, while Zayn was in motion for the Helluva Kick, Balor ran toward him and delivered the Sling Blade! Balor returned to the top rope, this time successfully hitting the Coup de Grâce! Balor covered Zayn, the official making the three count to crown a new champion!
FINN BALOR IS THE NEW NXT CHAMPION!
The NXT Universe came unglued as Finn Balor rose to his feet, 'The Demon' emerging from the hellacious Fatal Four Way match as the winner and new NXT Champion! He was handed the championship before having his arm raised, the fans soon realizing that Balor being the champion also meant that Sami Zayn no longer was. At that point, the feeling in the CFE Arena was bittersweet. Balor had finally earned what he set out to when he signed with WWE last year, but it came at the expense of a year-long journey that Zayn took the NXT Universe with. "Take nothing away from Sami Zayn. NXT is still the house that he built and no matter what, nobody will ever forget his incredible journey to the NXT Championship. Tonight, the odds were just too much for him to overcome and now, 'The Demon' stands alone at the top of the mountain," Josh Barnett said, trying to bring comfort to those were disheartened by Zayn's loss. The vast majority of fans were able to see that while Zayn was no longer holding the gold, the title was still in good hands. Pentagon and Hideo Itami were shown laid out at ringside, while Zayn still had yet to realize just what had happened. Balor stepped onto the barricade and raised the NXT Championship high in the air, ready to take the brand to new heights as its new champion!
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Post by Planktung on Jun 7, 2017 19:44:27 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jun 9, 2017 5:16:59 GMT -5
- Sami Zayn losing the NXT Championship in a Fatal 4 Way losing his title to Finn Balor as Balor beats Zayn, Paul Heyman Guy Hideo Itami and Pentagon w/Maxine...Balor finally becomes the NXT Champion but at the same time Zayn he does have a rematch clause because he was the champion and he lost the title so that being said it makes sense that at the next NXT PPV NXT: TakeOver New Orleans that it ends up being Balor/Zayn for the NXT Championship but that match was a damn damn good match probably one of the best NXT main events I have ever had the pleasure of reading
- John Morrison in the crowd in the audience this is the first time we have seen Morrison on WWE TV in 3 years the last time he was ever in a WWE ring was 2011 and now that he is back in a WWE ring I mean him showing up to an NXT event I mean The Shaman of Sexy he needs to be back on the main roster not here in NXT
- Emma becoming the new NXT Women's Champion beating Bayley to become champion...well big assist goes to Billie and Peyton as Iconic pretty much made sure that Emma would walk out NXT Women's Champion all be it Bayley had her own version of back-up in Becky Lynch and Nicole Matthews but all for naught as Emma became champion any way but that being said all 6 women will be in the WarGames structure on Sunday at Battleground as they are on their respective teams Team AJ and Team Alexa but now after the way this match went down I can see all hell breaking loose in the Women's WarGames match at Battleground
- Tyler Breeze retaining his IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship beating Ibushi to retain the title I definitely wasn't expecting Breeze to walk out still the champion given the fact that he is holding a New Japan Pro Wrestling title still and he is a WWE superstar an NXT superstar so I pretty much expected him to drop the title back to NJPW especially to Ibushi but that being said with Tyler still the champion I mean he is going to have to defend that title in NJPW because if you think they are going to allow him to keep that title any longer it isn't going to happen
- Dillinger beating O'Reilly...I mean this match was probably the strangest match I have ever seen I mean how the fans are cheering for Dillinger when he is supposed to be the heel in this match and O'Reilly is supposed to be the babyface but yet he is getting booed relentlessly I mean there may as well have been a double turn here in this match with the fans turning Dillinger into a babyface now and O'Reilly turning into a heel I mean if this was a double turn it was executed perfectly because I definitely did not see this coming but then again I think we have because of this Ten chant
- Magnus his NXT debut and it is none other than Rich Swann who he faces and Swann beats Magnus in his debut in a shocker this has to be an upset because I was expecting Magnus to beat Swann in a squash but then again this upset just proves that anything can happen in WWE especially in NXT...this has to be the biggest upset since The 1-2-3 Kid when he beat Razor Ramon...I wonder if after this huge win of Swann's if he actually ends up on the main roster after that shocking win? Magnus as for him I mean that probably has to be his most embarrassing loss
- Ricochet and Uhaa Nation retaining their NXT Tag Team Championships against The Addiction in a 2 Out of 3 Falls Match...I mean The Addiction they have done almost everything in NXT so with them losing to Ricochet and Uhaa Nation it is almost like a passing of the torch if you think about it...I can see Daniels and Kazarian making the jump to the main roster I mean it is only a matter of time but then it begs the question of who ends up getting the next title shot at the NXT Tag Team Championships?
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Post by Planktung on Jun 9, 2017 13:53:32 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jun 9, 2017 14:31:03 GMT -5
I knew it I knew it would be Zayn/Balor for the NXT Championship given Balor just won the title and Sami is entitled to a rematch he has a rematch clause so
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Post by Planktung on Jun 9, 2017 16:10:47 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jun 10, 2017 13:15:07 GMT -5
It seems Paige will be facing Allie
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Post by Planktung on Jun 10, 2017 16:14:18 GMT -5
February 21st, 2014 - The final SmackDown before Battlground on Sunday kicked off with the duo of Chris Jericho and Christian in the ring. Jericho and Christian hosted the first ever joint episode of The Highlight Reel and The Peep Show with their guest, Tyson Kidd. Kidd made his way down to the ring, Jericho and Christian continuously berating him for his failed effort against The Revival in a Handicap match on RAW. Kidd reminded Jericho and Christian that the only reason he competed in a Handicap match was because they took out Adrian Neville. When Jericho and Christian threatened to take out Kidd as well, Neville made a surprise return to the ring by entering through the audience, leaping off the top rope with a Crossbody onto Jericho and Christian. The two of them rolled out of the ring and headed up the entrance ramp, Jericho writing Kidd and Neville's names down on 'The List of Jericho' yet again. During the commercial break that followed, SmackDown Commissioner Shane McMahon made tonight's main event official. Jericho and Christian vs. Kidd and Neville.
WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPION DAVEY RICHARDS DEF. KOFI KINGSTON via Brainbuster. For the second time this week, Kofi Kingston suffered defeat at the hands of an Alpha Wolves member. Sunday night, Kingston won't be able to assist Big E and Xavier Woods as they take on Richards and Eddie Edwards in Match 7 of the Best-of-Seven Series for the WWE Tag Team Championships.
WADE BARRETT DEF. TJ PERKINS via Wasteland. TJ Perkins looked for revenge against Wade Barrett for pinning him on RAW, ending up unsuccessful in his attempt. Austin Aries, who was on commentary for the match, stepped onto the ring apron towards the conclusion. Perkins took Aries out, but turned around and walked into Wasteland.
BRAUN STROWMAN & BARON CORBIN DEF. SAMOA JOE & RUSEV via Powerslam to Rusev. The four competitors in the Monster's Ball match spent one of their final days NOT in confinement before Sunday in a Tag Team contest. Samoa Joe and Baron Corbin brawled through the audience, leaving just Braun Strowman and Rusev in the ring. Strowman managed to hoist Rusev onto his shoulder and plant him with a Powerslam to get the victory and momentum heading into Battleground.
ENZO AMORE & BIG CASS W/ JAMES ELLSWORTH DEF. THE PRIME TIME PLAYERS via an assisted Splash from Enzo Amore onto Titus O'Neil. Post-match, James Ellsworth attempted to celebrate with Enzo and Big Cass, both hesitant to allow Ellsworth into their circle. Enzo looks ahead to a future Hardcore Championship rematch against Matt Hardy, but until then, he and Cass will have to learn to put up with Ellsworth after saving him from a Hardy beatdown on RAW recently.
In the ring, SmackDown Commissioner Shane McMahon brought out a guest that he personally invited to tonight's show. Mojo Rawley, the individual who had been begging for an opportunity to become a WWE superstar since the Slammy Awards in December, made his way down the entrance ramp. The extremely hyper Mojo shook Shane's hand before the SmackDown Commissioner told him that his passion and desire for an opportunity has not gone unnoticed. "Kurt Angle and I said that our mission is to turn SmackDown into the 'Land of Opportunity' after the brand extension, so I'm going to go ahead and give you what you've been asking for: An opportunity." Damien Sandow then entered the picture, 'The Savior of the Masses' taking offense to the fact that Shane invited Mojo to SmackDown after he 'rudely' interrupted his entrance on RAW. Shane told Sandow that he had great timing since he was just about to call him down to the ring. "Over the last number of months, Sandow, you've been unable to impress. Here's your chance to get back on your feet. Right now, it's going to be you one-on-one with Mojo Rawley. And if Mojo is victorious, then he will earn your WWE contract!
MOJO RAWLEY DEF. DAMIEN SANDOW via a Running Forearm Smash. Mojo Rawley was able to pick up the victory over Damien Sandow, thus earning Sandow's spot on the WWE roster. Post-match, Sandow was escorted out of the arena via security while Shane McMahon raised Mojo's arm, welcoming him to the roster.
TYSON KIDD & ADRIAN NEVILLE DEF. CHRIS JERICHO & CHRISTIAN via disqualification after The Revival got involved. Jericho and Christian threw Neville out of the ring while Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder hit Kidd with the Shatter Machine. The two heinous teams stood tall after the match until the entrance music of Antonio Cesaro hit. 'The Swiss Superman' made his way out to the stage, Revival, Jericho and Christian daring him to get into the squared circle. Cesaro didn't move initially. He only smiled at the two teams who stood before him. Cesaro then pointed to the entranceway as Kassius Ohno's theme music played for the first time in months. The crowd in Colorado Springs erupted as 'The Knockout Artist' made his return, he and Cesaro running down to the ring. Cesaro and Ohno took the right to The Revival, Jericho and Christian before Kidd and Neville joined them. "Kassius Ohno ain't nothing to mess with, and The Revival, Chris Jericho and Christian have just learned that the hard way!" Mauro Ranallo said before Ohno delivered his Rolling Elbow to Wilder. Dawson dragged his fallen partner out of the ring, retreating along with Jericho and Christian while Cesaro, Kidd, Neville and the returning Ohno stood tall in the ring.
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Post by Planktung on Jun 10, 2017 16:14:50 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jun 12, 2017 8:38:19 GMT -5
- Kassius Ohno is back in a WWE ring no one has seen him in months and he is back...The Kings of Wrestling reunited as Cesaro & Ohno are reunited as Ohno makes a shocking return on Smackdown as he and Cesaro and Neville and Kidd all clean house after Kidd & Neville beat Jericho and Christian even after Jericho & Christian and The Revival had the upper hand but now that the KOW are back I would say the WWE Tag Team division is as competitive now as it has ever been
- Mojo Rawley in his debut match beats Sandow...so after that win I wonder if Mojo will end up on the Smackdown Live brand in the WWE Draft? I mean after this win after the opportunity Shane gave him I think it is safe to say that he will
- Enzo & Big Cass beating the Primetime Players...I would think that after a win like this they would turn their attention to the WWE Tag Team Championships but then again Enzo he wants to get his WWE Hardcore Championship back so that being said I wonder if Enzo when he does have his rematch if he will have Big Cass with him in tow? Enzo getting his rematch I am sure he won't get it at WWE Battleground but will probably get his rematch at WrestleMania 30
- Strowman & Corbin beating Rusev & Samoa Joe in a Tag Team Match I honestly thought that all 4 of these monsters would somehow turn on each other in this match and all hell will break loose I mean considering all 4 of these men will be in a Monster's Ball Match...I mean every man for himself in that match and I am sure one of them at least wanted to gain momentum for themselves but seeing Strowman get the deciding pin I wonder if that is an omen of things to come at Battleground in Monster's Ball?
- Barrett wins yet again...it seems ever since Wade Barrett has come back The Barrett Barrage has become better and better or he continues to get better and better winning match after match ever since his return and him beating TJ Perkins beating TJP just means Barrett is on a roll however be it that Barrett had help all be it indirect help from Aries never mind the fact that Barrett probably would have won the match regardless but now that Barrett is back it begs the question of what he plans on doing between now and WrestleMania 30? Barrett I wonder if he will turn his attention to "The Streak" that streak being the 21-0 undefeated streak of The Undertaker's? Considering Barrett last year at Mania he faced The Beast Brock Lesnar and then the year before at 28 he became the WWE Champion so it makes me wonder if at 30 he won't try to further cement his legacy by trying to face Taker at Mania?
- One half of the WWE Tag Team Champions Davey Richards of The Alpha Wolves beats one third of The New Day Kofi Kingston...I mean after this win I would think it gives The Alpha Wolves Richards & Edwards a whole mountain full of momentum heading into this Best of 7 Series for the WWE Tag Team Championships and this is the decider the final match-up like think in a playoff series this is Game 7 the final game whoever wins this wins the WWE Tag Team Championships while the other team suffers defeat like think for example the NBA Finals or the NHL Stanley Cup Final or think the MLB World Series...this is for all the marbles and the fact that Match #7 in the Best of 7 Series there will be no Kofi in Big E & Xavier's corner I think that that should give The Alpha Wolves a tremendous advantage
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Post by Planktung on Jul 20, 2017 6:59:27 GMT -5
Following the signature WWE intro, a camera was shown making its way through the fans in the Target Center as they filed into the arena that would host two WarGames matches this evening. In the arena, the structure was shown hanging high above the ring, 20 bodies about to be put on the line inside of it. Renee Young welcomed everyone to the Kickoff Panel that featured Michael Cole, Big Show and a very special guest. A brand new signing to WWE who will be joining the SmackDown Live commentary team after the Draft on April 10th, Nigel McGuinness. Renee, Cole and Show formally welcomed McGuinness to WWE, the former ROH Champion thanking them for their hospitality. "I couldn't be any more excited to finally be with the WWE after all these years. Maybe I could've chosen a better night to start seeing as how tonight's theme is violence and brutality, but nonetheless, I'm happy to be here," McGuinness said jokingly. "Show, we understand that you have something that you wanted to say to the WWE Universe," Renee said, Show then letting the world know that seeing him in a suit and tie is a sight that they'll be seeing a lot more of. "I've spent nearly two decades in what I consider to be the greatest industry on the planet, professional wrestling. I accomplished all that I ever wanted to and then some. All the miles traveled, blood, sweat and tears that I shed in that ring, I wouldn't change any of it. However, there comes a time in every wrestler's career when they know that it's time to walk away. Tonight, I announce my retirement from in-ring activity, but I'll still be here every month on these Pay-Per-View panels because I still have a passion for this industry and I want to forever give back to it any way that I can." Renee, Cole and McGuinness applauded Show for his illustrious career, wishing him the best of luck in his life after professional wrestling.
Sending things over to the Cathy Kelley in the Social Media Lounge, Cathy let the viewers on the WWE Network that during the Battleground Kickoff, she would be joined by Paul Heyman, the advocate for John Cena's opponent this evening, Hideo Itami. She encouraged the WWE Universe to send in their questions on Twitter by using the hashtag '#AskHeyman.'
Back at the Kickoff Panel, Renee noted that in what has been built up as the biggest week of Hideo Itami's career, he's thus far been unsuccessful in capitalizing on his opportunities. "He didn't get the job done in the Fatal Four Way match at TakeOver, which has to have done a number on his confidence heading into tonight," she said, Nigel believing otherwise. "Having been in the ring with Itami before, I can tell you for a fact that defeat only strengthens this man. When he gets knocked down, he doesn't stay down. He gets back up and kicks in the head harder than you've ever been kicked before. Losing at TakeOver, in my opinion, actually helps Itami tonight because if he was coming into Battleground as the NXT Champion, he would've ran the risk of getting too comfortable. He knows that if he doesn't beat John Cena, some people will brand him as a loser for the rest of his career. This is the single most important night of Itami's career, and I think he's going to shock the world." Show stated that no matter how talented or motivated Itami may be, he's in the ring tonight with arguably the greatest superstar in WWE history. "You've been in the ring with Itami, you said. I've been in the ring with Cena and trust me. 'Never Give Up' isn't just some slogan that WWE puts on t-shirts and hats. John Cena is the most resilient competitor to ever step foot in that ring. Itami's going to bring the fight to Cena and he's going to show the world that he belongs here in the big leagues, but he's called 'Big Match John' for a reason. Cena gets the job done tonight on his way to WrestleMania. 100%."
Switching gears to one of two championship matches tonight, the graphic appeared for The Miz and Daniel Bryan's United States Championship match. "Miz and Bryan are no strangers to each other. For as long as Bryan has been in WWE, he and Miz have been attached to one another. But while they have very storied past, tonight somehow has managed to become their most personal encounter yet," Renee said before Cole gave his input. "I was there during NXT season 1 when the world watched The Miz berate Daniel Bryan on a weekly for not fitting the so-called 'WWE mold.' I was one of Bryan's biggest critics, but he made a believe out of me by shattering said mold. Bryan and Miz step into that ring tonight for the first time in a one-on-one contest on Pay-Per-View as equals. They've both headlined WrestleMania. They're both decorated superstars. But, the advantage has to unfortunately go to The Miz. He doesn't have to be pinned or submitted to lose the championship, and on top of that, Bryan's health concerns have been brought to light. Miz knows what to target. The official will know what to look out for. Bryan has won championship gold in back-to-back WrestleManias, but even then, he needs to have the best performance of his career tonight. Not only is the United States Title on the line, but potentially, his career as well." McGuinness stated that the subject of Bryan's health is a strange one for him to discuss. "Five years ago, Daniel Bryan and I agreed to sign with WWE on the same day. He got in, but because of my own health issues, I wasn't so lucky. So, to be making my very first appearance in WWE on the same night that Bryan could be making his last... It's eerie, to say the least." Renee pointed out to McGuinness that he didn't sound very confident in Bryan's chances tonight. "No, I do like his chances of winning. I do think that he can beat The Miz, but at what cost? What's his body going to feel like after the dust has settled? When Bryan wakes up tomorrow morning, United States Champion or not, what condition will he be in? I know firsthand what Bryan is willing to do to himself to win, and that's why I'm worried. Because I know that he's going to give everything he's got, and that just might be all that he has left to give in his career."
Backstage, Tom Phillips was standing in front of the door to the room that had contained Baron Corbin for nearly 24 hours by that point. "Tonight, the first ever Monster's..." said Phillips before the sound of Corbin's fist smashing into the wall could be heard. Corbin let out a scream before punching the wall again, 'The Lone Wolf' losing his sanity. "The first ever Monster's Ball match takes place, and per the stipulation, all four competitors have spent almost 24 hours confined to one room. No food, water or sunlight, and when they're let loose tonight, who knows what they'll do to each other. Renee, Cole, Show, Nigel, back to you guys.
After the focus was placed back onto the Kickoff Panel, Show stated that he retired at the right time. "You wouldn't want to compete in Monster's Ball?" Cole asked him. "Hell no. Nobody wants to be kept in a dark room for a whole day with no water or food or sunlight. I can't even begin to imagine what they're going through right now. When those doors open and they head down to the ring, we're gonna see four monsters kill each other. As for who I think will win, who knows? It's anybody's match as far as I'm concerned given the fact that they're all going to be in the same delusional frame of minds." Cole stated that even with the confinement of all four men, he can't imagine Braun Strowman being stopped. "Braun is unlike anything we've ever seen before. The guy is massive, yet moves like lightning. Joe's on fire right now. Corbin is right there on the cusp of breaking out. Rusev has something to prove, but even with all of that, I think Braun Strowman is leaving Monster's Ball as the victor."
Having already covered the United States Championship match, the panel looked at the second of two title bouts to discuss. "3-1 is the key phrase here," Renee said. "3-1 was the lead that The New Day held over The Alpha Wolves in the Best-of-Seven Series for the WWE Tag Team Championships. Eddie Edwards and Davey Richards have since come back and have taken this series all the way to Match 7." McGuinness stated that New Day's confidence has been completely shattered. "This is unlike anything we've ever seen before from New Day. We're so used to seeing them dance their way down to the ring, crack jokes at the expense of others, and exude positive energy. Now, they're facing the worst case scenario after holding down a 3-1 lead. The Alpha Wolves have their number, and tonight, they're taking this series and retaining the Tag Team Titles." Show was hesitant to count New Day out, citing that some performers are at their best when the pressure is at its highest. "I think we're gonna see the most competitive match of this series, and there's no telling who will leave as the WWE Tag Team Champions. My mind says The Alpha Wolves will retain, but New Day aren't going down so easily. Their confidence and momentum may be shot, but that won't stop Big E and Xavier Woods from coming out swinging."
Sending things over to the commentary duo of Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves, the two were shown at their announce table that was positioned on the side of the stage rather than at ringside. "We made way fpr the structure hanging high above all of us known as WarGames, and I'm not complaining at all. The further away from the carnage I am, the better," Graves said. Ranallo then said that while the action tonight in WarGames will be hellacious, the upcoming Kickoff match has all of the potential in the world to be just as destructive thanks to the inclusion of one particular superstar who made her return this past Monday on RAW.
At the sound of the scream that prefaced "Stars in the Night", the WWE Universe members in the Target Center came unglued. Paige made her way out onto the stage, holding her signature barbed wire baseball bat with her. "Paige... It's just Allie. You don't need that," Corey Graves said on commentary as 'The Anti-Diva' walked down to the ring for the first time as herself since Survivor Series. For months, Paige had been under the spell of Bray Wyatt after he locked her in a casket back in November. Paige's performance in the Royal Rumble match was ultimately what led to her remembering what she means to the WWE Universe, and that was something that Wyatt couldn't bear to watch. Weeks after being attacked by Wyatt, Paige is back and she's ready to take out her frustrations on whoever stands in her way. Tonight, it unfortunately happened to be an innocent soul. "Introducing her opponent... Allie!" Justin Roberts said as Paige stood in the ring with her barbed wire bat in hand. No music played as Allie slowly walked through the curtain, the assistant to Stephanie McMahon and Dario Cueto trembling in fear. "This match came about after Derrick Bateman asked Stephanie to 'keep Paige occupied' while he gets ready to lead a WarGames team into tonight's main event. Stephanie could have chosen anyone in the locker room to take on Paige, and she picked the one person who has never done anything to deserve this. Allie has never harmed a soul, but Stephanie is still feeding her to someone whose wrath she has experienced firsthand before," Ranallo said, feeling bad for Allie. Paige kept her eyes locked on Allie as the latter entered the ring, appearing ready to cry at any moment. While the fans in Minneapolis were eager to see Paige in action again, they didn't want it to happen like this. The official asked Paige and Allie if they were ready for the match to begin, neither giving an answer. He then asked Paige to put down her barbed wire bat, 'The Anti-Diva' still not responding. She simply stared at Allie for another few seconds before lifting the bat over her head, Allie ducking and covering. Paige kept the bat raised a little while longer before she released it from her hand, allowing it to fall to the canvas. Allie, who had braced for the impact of barbed wire piercing her flesh, turned her head toward Paige, who walked over to the ropes and asked for a microphone. She was handed one before turning back to Allie, asking her to get up. "Get out of here," Paige said, confusing Allie. "I'm not going to hurt you because you've never given me a reason to. You're a good person, Allie. One of the few people on this roster who I can say that about. I want the best for you. I want to watch you throw Stephanie's crap right back into her face. I want to see in this ring one day as a champion, and I know I will. I'm not going to fight you, so please get out of this ring. Go. And if Stephanie asks you why this match didn't happen, you can tell her to come find me and I'll give her an answer."
As Allie was complying with Paige's order and exiting the ring, 'The Anti-Diva' continued to speak and addressed the fact that everybody probably has a bunch of questions for her. "Here's the deal. At Survivor Series, I got my ass kicked. Bray Wyatt put me through glass, put me through hell and then locked me in a casket. I have no idea when I was finally let out, but when I was, everything changed. I lost every bit of sanity that I had, which wasn't a whole lot. I got out of the casket and Wyatt was standing there in his Compound. He brainwashed me. He had me under his spell and I blindly became one of his followers. I looked in the mirror and I thought the monster staring back at me was just who I was... But it wasn't and I have each and every one of you to thank for showing me that. At the Royal Rumble... I came this close. THIS! CLOSE! To becoming the Universal Champion, but because of Derrick Bateman, I let everybody down like I always do. Wyatt put me back in the casket, only this time, I had enough comprehension of reality to know that I didn't belong there. I made sure that Wyatt and Bateman knew I was still out there, and when the time was right, I struck. The two of them turned me into their worst enemy and I'm dedicating my life now to ruining theirs. Bateman... You want me to be 'occupied' tonight? Here's your chance. You can come out to this ring right now and finish what we started at the Royal Rumble, or you can continue being the **** that you are and force me to go get you myself." Paige threw down her microphone and stood her ground in the ring, the fans in the Target Center rallying behind her. To the surprise of nobody, Bateman didn't answer Paige's challenge. Instead, the entrance music of AJ Styles sounded. The WWE Champion walked down to the ring, just hours before he leads The Undertaker, CM Punk, Cody Rhodes and Dean Ambrose into WarGames against Team Bateman. Styles stepped through the ropes, telling Paige that he knows they've never seen eye-to-eye before, but that's not what's important right now. "Just hear me out for one minute, Paige, because I think that you and I can help each other out. WarGames is only a few hours away, and CM Punk still has yet to show up. That doesn't surprise after what happened on Monday, but it's still disappointing. As the captain of my team, I need to make a game-time decision. Bateman and Wyatt are on the opposing team and you came here tonight to get revenge against them. I don't think I need to say anything else." Styles extended his hand out to Paige, 'The Anti-Diva' glaring at it before looking around at the sea of WWE Universe members who rampantly chanted, "Yes!" Paige then turned her attention back to the WWE Champion, ultimately accepting his offer. "Oh my God..." Corey Graves uttered as Styles picked up Paige's barbed wire bat, handing it back over to her. Paige looked up at the WarGames structure and showed no signs of fear at the thought of getting inside the hellacious environment as long as it meant being able to get her hands on the two superstars who she vowed revenge against. "CM Punk is out... And Paige is in WarGames," said Mauro Ranallo, still not believing the fact that Paige has joined Team Styles at the very last minute. "Derrick Bateman's plan could not have backfired any worse. He wanted Paige to be occupied, and she's occupied, alright. She's occupied in the freakin' WarGames match!"
Cutting to the Social Media Lounge, Cathy Kelley was shown sitting across from her guest, Paul Heyman. Cathy thanked Heyman for his time, the advocate for Hideo Itami stating that he could not care any less about what the masses on Twitter have to say to him, but any extra publicity for Itami benefits him greatly. Cathy's first question came from a user who asked if he's disappointed that Itami failed to become the NXT Champion at TakeOver: R Evolution? "With any loss comes disappointment, but keep in mind the man that we are talking about here. People should be upset that Sami Zayn lost because he'll likely never become NXT Champion again. People should be upset that Pentagon lost because he blew his chance to finally breakout. No one should be upset that Hideo Itami lost because we all know that he will be NXT Champion sooner rather than later. Put Itami in a one-on-one contest with any of them for the NXT Championship and my client walks out with the gold. Fatal Four Way matches, they're not ideal. Also, let me remind everybody that Hideo Itami was not pinned at TakeOver. Sami Zayn was, so as far as I'm concerned, Sami Zayn is the loser in all of this. Not Hideo Itami." The next question from Twitter asked Heyman how he feels about tonight's two WarGames matches. "I think we're going to see much of what the WWE Universe clamors for. Violence, chaos and absolute destruction, and it only got worse now that we know Paige will be in the main event tonight. All 20 superstars competing in WarGames will leave the squared circle a changed man or woman. That's what WarGames does to you, and that's what you have to know you're getting yourself into when you sign the dotted line and make your inclusion in the match official. As for who I think will win... You know what? I hope Derrick Bateman leave WarGames victorious because I want 'The Devil Himself' to be at his best when he walks into New Orleans on April 6th in front of over 70,000 fans to defend his WWE Universal Championship against the man who should have won the Royal Rumble. The man who Bateman cannot escape, no matter how hard he tries. At WrestleMania, Derrick Bateman will face the wrath of 'The Beast Incarnate.' 'The Conqueror.' Brock Lesnar." Finally, Cathy asked Heyman why he believes Lesnar should challenge Bateman at WrestleMania for the Universal Championship and not John Cena. "I wholeheartedly believe that you'll get your answer tonight. If John Cena cannot even get through Hideo Itami, which he will not, what on earth makes John Cena and the entire 'Cenation' believe that he is a formidable challenger for the Universal Title at WrestleMania? John Cena came out nowhere at the Royal Rumble and simply placed himself into the discussion for Universal Champion. Brock Lesnar and Derrick Bateman actually have history. They have a score to settle, and settled it will be at WrestleMania when Derrick Bateman takes a one way trip to Suplex City and hands the Universal Championship over to my 'Beast.' Cena can have his title opportunity any other time that he wishes, but WrestleMania? No, no, no, Mr. Cena. That event is reserved for Brock Lesnar."
As the clock winded down on the Battleground Kickoff, the panel picked apart one of two WarGames matches tonight. "Never before have women stepped into WarGames, but that all changes when AJ Lee leads her team against Alexa Bliss'," Renee said. Cole stated that over the last year, the WWE Universe has seen the women's division reach heights that were never once imaginable. "AJ Lee is responsible for much of that. Look at what she's accomplished since Extreme Rules last year. Winner of the first Last Diva Standing match, which was then voted as the Match of the Year by the WWE Universe. At TLC, she became the first WWE Women's Champion of the modern era. Now, she's captaining a team in the first women's WarGames match. If you're predicting a winning team based on talent, you can really go either way. Sofia Cortez, Bayley, Becky Lynch, Nicole Matthews, Kaitlyn and Iconic. All are amazing competitors, and I think we can all agree that AJ and Alexa exceeded all expectations with the selections they made. I'll go with AJ Lee's team to win for two reasons. One, AJ is on her way to a Women's Title match with Alexa at WrestleMania. She's going to do everything that she can to get some momentum on her side and strike fear in the heart of 'Five Feet of Fury.' The second reason is the anger and frustration that Bayley, Becky and Nicole have to be feeling now that the NXT Women's Championship is in the camp of Iconic." Show leaned toward Alexa's team due to Kaitlyn, who he described as the 'wild card' of the match. "After an incredible 2013, Kaitlyn's been a bit quiet so far this year. We've seen her looming in the background of Alexa Bliss, and we know that's not where she plans on staying. I think Kaitlyn will have a remarkable performance here tonight and that's what will help Alexa Bliss' team get the victory."
Lastly, all that was left to discuss was the main event. "Before we go intp predictions, I have to ask if the fact that Paige will now be taking CM Punk's spot on Team AJ Styles changes the complexion of this match." McGuinness believed that it did so drastically. "How enthusiastic would CM Punk have been in this match. I'm not saying that he wouldn't have put it in any effort to defeat Team Bateman, but considering his issues with his teammates, specifically Cody Rhodes, it might have only been a matter of time before Punk walk out on them. Paige, on the other hand, only has retribution on her mind. Bateman and Wyatt are her targets, but you know that as soon as Seth Rollins, Bobby Roode and Kevin Owens get in her way, she's going to swing for the fences with that barbed wire bat and whatever else she can find out there. Paige is a game changer in this scenario and she's the reason that I now believe AJ Styles has nothing to worry about. He and his team are taking this one." Cole said that while Paige's inclusion changes the way that this match will go, it doesn't change his prediction. "Derrick Bateman is currently on one of the most impressive rolls I've ever seen in WWE. As much as I dislike Bateman and the tactics that he's used to get to this point, you have to look at the facts. He eliminated the likes of Brock Lesnar, John Cena, Cody Rhodes and Paige to win the Royal Rumble match. He's going to headline WrestleMania in the first defense of the Universal Championship. And look at the team that he's assembled. Bray Wyatt, Seth Rollins, Bobby Roode and Kevin Owens. This is one of the most dangerous units that I can ever recall, and that's saying something when the opposing team has Paige and The Undertaker." Show said that while Bateman's team is impressive, Cole just mentioned who believes will dictate the direction of match. "It's been the same story for over two decades. This is The Undertaker's yard and it's WrestleMania season. No one, I mean no one is better than 'The Deadman' in moments like tonight. Derrick Bateman, thanks for playing, but The Undertaker is coming to put you into your grave and AJ Styles, Cody Rhodes, Dean Ambrose and especially Paige will ensure that he does so."
With only seconds left to go until the top of the hour, the lights in the Target Center began flickering as the WarGames structure lowered to ground level. When Battleground goes live on Pay-Per-View and the WWE Network, history will be made. For the first time ever, 10 women will step into WarGames. Team AJ Lee and Team Alexa Bliss open up Battleground, next!
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Post by Planktung on Jul 20, 2017 7:00:25 GMT -5
After the signature WWE intro aired, a video package began playing with "War" by Edwin Starr tracked over it. The black and white video featured stock footage of combat from past wars along with shots of the 20 superstars competing in WarGames tonight. On the final Pay-Per-View stop before WrestleMania, bodies and career will be put on the line for the opportunity at revenge - AJ Lee vs. Alexa Bliss - and supremacy - AJ Styles vs. Derrick Bateman. In the women's battle, more than half of the field will be making their first ever main roster Pay-Per-View appearances. While AJ, Alexa, Kaitlyn and Sofia settle the scores that have been months in the making, Emma, Billie Kay, Peyton Royce, Bayley, Becky Lynch and Nicole Matthews all have the chance to prove their worth to not only the WWE Universe, but the staff of both RAW and SmackDown ahead of the Draft in April that can change their lives. In the main event, the complexion changed completely with the return of Paige on Monday night. 'The Anti-Diva' will now be taking the spot of Intercontinental Champion CM Punk, a decision made by Styles on the Kickoff Show. The closing shot of the video package was the signature of The Wyatt Family, followed by an image of Paige resting in a casket with black eyes and blood stains underneath them. "... You will suffer, Paige," said a voiceover from Wyatt.
The official theme song for Battleground, "The Good, The Bad and The Dirty" by Panic! At the Disco sounded as a huge pyrotechnics display blasted from the stage. Cameras hovered over the sold out audience that packed the Target Center for the final Pay-Per-View event before WrestleMania XXX on April 6th. Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves welcomed everyone to Battleground, where tonight, two WarGames matches will take place, one of which pitting Champion vs. Champion. WWE Champion AJ Styles leads Cody Rhodes, Dean Ambrose, The Undertaker and now Paige against Universal Champion Derrick Bateman, Bray Wyatt, Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens and Bobby Roode. Plus, the United States Championship is on the line in what many are speculating could mark the end of Daniel Bryan's career if he is to suffer any further damage to his neck at the hands of the champion, The Miz. John Cena battles NXT's Hideo Itami in a dream match. The first ever Monster's Ball match in a WWE ring takes place when Braun Strowman, Baron Corbin, Rusev and Samoa Joe are let loose after 24 hours of confinement. The Best of Seven Series for the WWE Tag Team Championships concludes when The Alpha Wolves meet The New Day, this time represented by Big E and Xavier Woods. "But first up tonight, history will be made. 10 women step into the WarGames structure and considering all that we've seen from the women's division ever since last year's Extreme Rules, who knows what in the world we're about to witness?" Ranallo asked as the cameras focused on the structure.
Cutting to a video package featuring "Help" by Papa Roach, highlights of the rise of Alexa Bliss were shown. After failing to ever find her footing on NXT television, Alexa was given the opportunity to shine on the main roster with a 3 month contract. Had she failed to impress, she would've been sent back to NXT. Alexa was taken under the wing of Natalya, who she shockingly betrayed in November. "Did someone turn the lights out? Or is it just another dark cloud in my head?" The two engaged in a feud that culminated with the now diabolical Alexa defeating her on the TLC Kickoff Show. Later on that evening, Kaitlyn used her power as the Head of the Women's Division to add Alexa to the Tables, Ladders and Chairs match for the WWE Women's Championship between AJ Lee and Sofia Cortez. After delivering a Twist of Fate to Alexa off the ladder, AJ was able to become the first Women's Champion of the modern era. Alexa's next step towards the gold was a number one contenders match against Sofia at Concrete Jungle, that of which she came out of victorious. The much-anticipated title match between AJ and Alexa at the Royal Rumble ended in controversial fashion after AJ fooled the official into believing that Alexa struck her with a lead pipe. In a rematch a few days later on a live edition of SmackDown, Alexa was able to defeat AJ, but via disqualification. The third encounter between the two took place on the February 3rd edition of Monday Night RAW in a Last Diva Standing match. After interference from three masked women who later revealed to be Iconic - Emma, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce - Alexa sent AJ back-first into a pile of thumbtacks and followed up with Twisted Bliss. "They're preying on my weakness, believe it. I'm thinking to myself 'no, not again.'" Alexa defeated AJ and finally captured the WWE Women's Championship. Adding Kaitlyn to the mix, Alexa's team was now complete. So too, however, was AJ's as she not only recruited Sofia, but NXT superstars Bayley, Becky Lynch and Nicole Matthews as well. The stage was set, but before all 10 entered WarGames, Bayley and Emma met in an NXT Women's Championship at TakeOver: R Evolution four days ago. Thanks to assistance from Billie, Peyton and an exposed turnbuckle, Emma was able to become the only two-time NXT Women's Champion in history. AJ and Bayley both have revenge on their minds for the loss of their championships. Sofia and Kaitlyn continue their rivalry, and Becky and Nicole finally have Billie and Peyton right where they want them. "I think I need help. I think I need help." Which team will leave WarGames as the first ever victorious female unit?
Entrant #1: AJ Lee
"Don't get too close. That place is haunted. Fear not the ghost, 'cause she sent them running." One of the two team captains was the first to make her way out to the stage, the WWE Universe members in Minneapolis giving AJ Lee a monstrous ovation. The former WWE Women's Champion held a kendo stick in one of her hands as she skipped down to the door of the WarGames structure. AJ walked into the hellacious environment, officially becoming the first woman to ever step foot inside of WarGames. "AJ Lee has spent the last year putting herself and her opponents at great risk for injury. Tonight is no different, and it may be the worst we've ever seen from her," Corey Graves said, concerned about the well-being of AJ and everyone on the opposing team. AJ looked around at the eight sided steel structure that surrounded the ring. With more than enough room at ringside, several ladders, tables, chairs, trash cans and even a barbed wire board were propped and ready for any of the ten competitors to use to their advantage. AJ sat on the second rope, the kendo stick still in her hand as she awaited the arrival of her first opponent.
Entrant #2: Emma
AJ Lee would be starting things off against a champion, but not the one that she was hoping for. The brand new NXT Women's Champion Emma made her way out into the Target Center, unstrapping the title from her waist and raising it high as the only superstar in NXT history to hold the title twice. "Emma may be entering this contest with the most momentum out of anyone. She's undefeated since returning at the start of 2014, and after this past Wednesday's TakeOver, she now has the NXT Women's Championship back in her possession," Mauro Ranallo stated as Emma entered the WarGames structure. She handed the title over to one of the officials before entering the ring, AJ slowly walking into the center of the ring with her kendo stick. The bell sounded to officially begin both the WarGames match and the three minute clock that would signal when the next competitor arrived. With Alexa Bliss' team holding the number advantage, AJ would have to endure six minutes on her own. She swung the kendo stick at Emma, the new NXT Women's Champion dodging the shot. Emma was able to evade another strike before trying to run out of the ring. AJ finally hit Emma on the side of her left leg with the kendo stick before delivering another shot, this time to her back. Emma rolled out of the ring, AJ not allowing her any time to catch her breath and evaluate any damage done to her flesh. AJ leaped out of the ring with a Suicide Dive, pushing Emma into the steel! AJ picked Emma up and attempted to rake her face against the steel wall, Emma able to prevent it. Emma hit AJ in the mid-section with two elbow strikes before shoving her face-first into the ring post. Emma looked over at one of the steel chairs perched against the wall before turning her attention back to AJ. Emma delivered a Northern Lights Suplex onto the floor before picking AJ up and rolling her into the ring. Emma grabbed the chair that she previously eyed and took it into the squared circle with her. Emma set the chair up and sat AJ into it before picking up the kendo stick. The NXT Women's Champion tried to strike AJ in the head with the kendo stick, but AJ was able to move out of harm's way. AJ went behind Emma and grabbed the kendo stick, placing it against her throat and choking her with it. AJ released Emma, who gasped for air before taking another kendo stick shot to her back. Emma backed against a corner, AJ picking up the chair and driving it into Emma's face with a Dropkick! AJ rose to her feet, the countdown clock appearing to introduce the next competitor for Team Alexa Bliss.
Entrant #3: Billie Kay
A relief for Emma as one of her two Iconic stablemates was the next superstar out for WarGames. Billie Kay made her Pay-Per-View debut, walking down to the ring as AJ never took her eyes off of her. The cage door opened as Billie remained still for a few seconds, breathing heavily and showing signs of fear. "Now's not the time to be afraid, Billie. You need to defend both yourself and Emma against this psychopath,"Corey Graves said on commentary. While Bille slowly made her way into the WarGames structure, Emma took the kendo stick and leveled AJ with it in the back of her head! AJ crumbled to the canvas, Billie suddenly no longer showing any hesitation to get into the ring. She and Emma stomped away on AJ before Emma stood the former WWE Women's Champion up to her feet. Billie hit AJ with a Big Boot. Emma then headed out to ringside, picking up the barbed wire board. She slid it into the ring, Billie placing AJ onto her shoulders. Billie had a Powerbomb in mind, but AJ was able to slide off of her shoulders. AJ ran the ropes and Dropkicked Billie, Emma able to move the board out of the way before Billie could fall onto it. Emma slid the board back out of the ring, AJ running toward her and applying the Black Widow. AJ had the hold cinched in until Billie struck her in the back with a kendo stick. AJ fell back onto the canvas, Billie hitting her two more times with the stick. She handed the weapon over to Emma before holding AJ up. Emma went to hit AJ, but failed as AJ moved out of the way. Emma inadvertently hit Billie in her abdomen with the kendo stick, AJ then taking her down with a quick Hurricanrana. AJ picked up the kendo stick and swung it at Emma, who slid out of the ring. AJ turned around and hit Billie in her arm with the kendo stick before Emma grabbed her by her ankles from underneath the bottom rope. Emma pulled AJ out of the ring and pressed her against the apron, delivering a knife edge chop. Billie then ran towards AJ and kicked her in the back of her head through the opening in between the bottom and middle ropes. AJ fell to the floor as Emma and Billie picked her up, the countdown clock appearing yet again.
Entrant #4: Becky Lynch
Help for AJ Lee finally arrived in the form of one of Emma and Billie Kay's current rivals, Becky Lynch. 'The Irish Lass Kicker' ran into the WarGames structure and immediately took the fight to Emma and Billie, repeatedly striking both of them before quickly sliding into the ring. Becky took the kendo stick and leveled Emma in the back with it as the NXT Women's Champion tried going after her. Billie stood still at ringside, not answering Becky's call to get into the squared circle. Billie perhaps should have since she was then taken down with a Thesz Press from AJ. Billie tried to cover her face to prevent any further strikes before Becky slid the kendo stick out to AJ. She took the stick and proceeded to beat Billie with it, the fans in Minneapolis shouting "Yes!" with every shot. Becky tried leaving the ring to get to Emma, but the NXT Women's Champion threw a steel chair at her head. Becky fell to the outside before Emma took the chair and ran towards the side of the ring where AJ continued to pummel Billie. Emma hit AJ in the mid-section with the chair before striking her in the back with it. Emma assisted Billie up to her feet, the two not initially noticing Becky leaping over the top rope! Becky crashed onto the two Iconic members before heading over to the WarGames wall, picking up a table. She set it up at ringside and grabbed Billie, striking her a few times before placing her flat on the surface of the table.
Entrant #5: Peyton Royce
The last remaining member of Iconic, Peyton Royce, entered next for Team Alexa Bliss. Peyton ran down to ringside and went after Becky, trying to prevent her from putting Billie through a table. Becky retaliated before Billie grabbed her by her bright orange hair, throwing her into the steel wall. "Are you alright?" Peyton asked Billie, the latter assuring her that she was fine. The two then began stomping on Becky while Emma slid AJ back into the ring. The NXT Women's Champion Irish Whipped AJ into a turnbuckle, AJ's chest bouncing right off of it. Peyton held Becky up while Billie looked underneath the ring, bringing out a fire extinguisher. "Straight fire, huh?!" Billie shouted at Becky, the WWE Universe assuming she was going to spray her with the contents of the extinguisher. Instead, Billie literally hit Becky in the forehead with it! Billie and Peyton laughed with each other before Emma called for them. "Bring it here!" she shouted while pointing at the barbed wire board that was introduced earlier. Billie picked up one side of it while Peyton picked up the other, the two of them careful to not touch the razor-sharp wire. They slid the board into the ring, AJ trying to use the ropes to get back to her. Emma positioned the board in the center of the ring before grabbing AJ. Emma and Peyton picked AJ's feet up off of the canvas, placing her onto the shoulders of Billie. "No, no, no!" Mauro Ranallo yelled out as Iconic delivered a Triple Powerbomb to AJ onto the barbed wire board! AJ laid flat on top of the barbed wire, cameras zooming in to show the pointed tips piercing her shirt, shorts and flesh. Emma stared at the fallen AJ while Billie and Peyton jumped with joy together before joining Emma, the two of them holding each other's index fingers.
Entrant #6: Nicole Matthews
Even though AJ and Becky were already beaten and battered, especially the team captain, the odds were finally evened as Nicole Matthews made her way down to the ring, holding with her one of Portia Perez's crutches. "It was the trio of Iconic who put Portia on the shelf, and the last word we heard was that her future as an in-ring competitor is actually in doubt now," Corey Graves said to emphasize how much Nicole wanted to take the fight to Iconic. Emma actually moved the barbed wire board out of the way while AJ was still stuck on it, clearing the way for Iconic's next adversary. Nicole slid into the ring and dodged double Clotheslines from Billie and Peyton, dropping the crutch and going straight after Emma with a forearm shot! Nicole quickly picked the crutch back up and struck Billie with it before doing the same to Peyton. Nicole drove the crutch into the neck and chest area of Emma, the NXT Women's Champion rolling out of the ring. Nicole continued to go after Emma, throwing her into the steel wall at full speed. Becky had re-entered the ring by that point, leaping off the top rope with a Flying Crossbody onto both Billie and Peyton. The two Iconic members each retreated to separate corners of the ring, Becky charging into both of them with her forearm. The dazed Billie and Peyton waltzed into the center of the ring, Becky grabbing their heads and colliding them into each other. Becky went to pull AJ off of the barbed wire board, but Peyton was quick to chop block her in the back of her right knee. Billie then ran into Becky with a boot to the side of her head, she and Peyton then going to assist Emma against Nicole. By that point, Nicole was repeatedly striking Emma with a chair in her back. When Nicole noticed Billie and Peyton running toward her, she tipped a ladder over onto the two of them! Billie and Peyton fell to the floor, Nicole noticing that AJ was still stuck in the barbed wire. She slid into the ring and slowly pulled AJ out of the razor-sharp wire, the former WWE Women's Champion's first move after freedom being to dive out of the ring with a Suicide Dive to Emma! AJ then moved out of the ring as Nicole and Becky both leaped out of the ring, taking out Billie and Peyton.
Entrant #7: Kaitlyn
A moment that AJ had been waiting for as she was going to have the chance to battle her former best friend, Kaitlyn, in the confines of WarGames. Kaitlyn slowly walked down the ramp toward the structure, a kendo stick in her hand. In the ring, AJ picked up the kendo stick that she had brought to the ring during her entrance, asking for Becky and Nicole to allow her and Kaitlyn the ring to themselves. The two of them complied, happily returning to the attack on Iconic. Kaitlyn stepped into the ring and met AJ face-to-face, one-on-one. They both swung their kendo sticks at each other simultaneously, ending up engaging in a sword-like battle with them. Kaitlyn kicked AJ in the mid-section and leveled her in the back with her kendo stick, following up by attacking Becky and Nicole when they tried to intervene. "Get up!" Kaitlyn screamed at AJ as she staggered to her feet. When AJ finally stood up, Kaitlyn struck her across the face with the kendo stick! AJ immediately crumbled to the canvas, holding her head in excruciating pain. Kaitlyn headed out to ringside and pulled the table that Becky had set up earlier closer to the ring apron. She grabbed AJ and rolled her out of the ring, trying to place her onto the surface of the table. Becky was able to get a hold of Kaitlyn and prevent that from happening, delivering a German Suplex onto the floor. When Becky got to her feet, Billie and Peyton ran behind her and shoved her into the ring post. Nicole then charged into the both of them with Dropkicks that sent them into the steel wall of the WarGames structure. Emma ran into Nicole with a European Uppercut, all women in the match at that point down and out. The NXT Women's Champion was the only one who showed any signs of life as she crawled into the ring at the same time that the countdown clock appeared.
Entrant #8: Bayley
The WWE Universe just about blew the roof off of the Target Center when Bayley's entrance music sounded, Emma realizing the position she was in. She was the only competitor standing in the ring, and coming toward her was the woman she defeated on Wednesday at TakeOver to win the NXT Women's Championship. Bayley ran through the WarGames door and into the ring, blocking the first strike that Emma attempted. Bayley repeatedly hit Emma in the face before Irish Whipping her off of the ropes for a back elbow. Bayley got back to her feet and picked Emma up for the Bayley-to-Belly, Peyton grabbing her from behind him. Bayley was able to free herself and plant Peyton with the Bayley-to-Belly, Emma leaving the ring for a second to catch her breath. When Bayley tried going after Emma, Billie pulled her leg and caused her to crash her back onto the ring apron. Billie helped Peyton back up to her feet while Emma placed the top portion of Balyey's body under the ring, slingshotting her into the equipment that served as the foundation to the squared circle. Kaitlyn and Becky crawled toward each other, the two exchanging strikes while Iconic set their sights on Nicole. The three of them attacked her while Kaitlyn bounced Becky's face off of a table, AJ then latching onto her back and attempting to choke her out. Kaitlyn backed against the steel wall, crushing AJ in the process. Becky then grabbed Kaitlyn and rolled her into the ring, 'The Irish Lass Kicker' hitting with a Missile Dropkick. Becky grabbed Kaitlyn for what looked to be an Exploder Suplex, but Kaitlyn fought her way out of it. Kaitlyn then went for a Clothesline, Becky able to grab her arm and take her down to the canvas. Becky tried to apply the Disarmer, but Billie and Peyton slid into the ring and simultaneously hit her with knee strikes to the back of her head. AJ slid into the ring at that point, but was immediately drilled with a Spear from Kaitlyn! Emma joined Kaitlyn, Billie and Peyton in the ring while cameras surveyed the scene at ringside. AJ, Bayley, Becky and Nicole were all taken out, leaving the four villainous superstars standing while the countdown clock appeared, one more entrant left for their team.
Entrant #9: Alexa Bliss
While some members of the WWE Universe did cheer for the ninth entrant, the overwhelming majority let out boos as loudly as they could. Alexa Bliss made her way out onto the stage, donning a Harley Quinn-inspired attire. The WWE Women's Champion smiled during her walk down to the ring, satisfied with the work that her team had put in up that point. Alexa stepped into the ring and shook hands with Kaitlyn and Iconic, thanking them for a job well done. "Now finish this," she said to them before everybody set their sights on someone. Kaitlyn went after AJ while Emma, Billie and Peyton targeted Bayley, Becky and Nicole respectively. With her team in complete control of the contest, Alexa headed toward the door to the WarGames structure and demanded a microphone. One of the officials eventually gave her one, 'Five Feet of Fury' re-entering the ring and letting the world know exactly how she felt. "See what's happening right now?! The most dominant unit in WWE history is doing exactly what I said they'd do! I told each and every single one of you that my team would wipe the floor with AJ Lee's in WarGames, and look at what's happening! Kaitlyn! Emma! Peyton Royce! Billie Kay! And most importantly, Alexa freakin' Bliss just single-handedly destroyed the women's divisions of both WWE and NXT! And now, you should all realize what's going to happen at WrestleMania in six weeks! AJ Lee is going to fall at my feet yet again and realize that this whole Women's Revolution was just a figment of her imagination. There is no such thing as the Women's Revolution. There is only the revolution of Alexa Bliss! AJ... You always say, 'Welcome to hell.' Well... Right back at you, sweetie." Alexa put her microphone down and posed with the WWE Women's Championship behind her head, the countdown clock appearing to introduce the tenth and final participant in the match.
Entrant #10: Sofia Cortez
Wasting no time to enter the final phase of the WarGames match, Sofia Cortez ran down to the ring and took Alexa down to the canvas, repeatedly striking the WWE Women's Champion with elbow strikes. "This is it. Now, pinfalls and submission will count. All it takes is one decision for either Team AJ Lee or Team Alexa Bliss to be victorious," Mauro Ranallo said, reminding the fans at home that the match can now end at any moment. Sofia springboarded off of the ropes for La Sicaria, but Alexa caught her with a Dropkick in mid-air. Alexa picked up her Women's Title, trying to level Sofia in the face with it. Sofia kicked the title away before catching Alexa with a Roundhouse Kick. Sofia threw Alexa out of the ring and onto Billie and Peyton. Sofia ascended to the top rope, leaping off with a Crossbody onto Emma and Kaitlyn. Sofia held the top rope down, allowing Becky and Bayley to simultaneously leap over it. All five members of Team Alexa Bliss were laid out at ringside while Nicole set a ladder up, scaling it as the WWE Universe rose to their feet in anticipation of what was about to happen. "What the hell is she thinking?!" Corey Graves questioned while Nicole stood at the top of the ladder, waiting for her adversaries to get up. Nicole then leaped off of the ladder with a Senton onto all five members of Team Alexa Bliss! "Nicole Matthews just flew 15 feet in the air just for the chance to defeated Alexa Bliss, Kaitlyn and Iconic!" Ranallo exclaimed while the fans that packed the Target Center began a "Holy crap!" chant. AJ immediately grabbed Alexa and rolled her into the ring, getting the first cover of the match for a two count. AJ slammed Alexa's head into the canvas, the rest of her team continuing to work over Alexa's unit. Becky grabbed a table that was propped against the WarGames structure, setting it up before looking underneath the ring for yet another table. She set the new table up next to the one previously utilized before getting onto the ring apron. Alexa, who was able to free herself from AJ's clutches, Dropkicked Becky. She nearly fell back, but was able to hold onto the top rope to save herself. Billie tried getting a hold of Becky in a Powerbomb position, hoping to send her crashing through the two tables. Becky kicked Billie away before stepping back down onto the floor, going after one of the three Iconic members. Nicole brought Emma over to the table that was set up much earlier in the match, the NXT Women's Champion fighting back with elbow strikes to the mid-section. Back in the ring, AJ attempted the Twist of Fate to Alexa, but 'Five Feet of Fury' was able to push her out of the ring. Alexa stepped out onto the ring apron, leaping off with Twisted Bliss onto AJ. Becky and Billie's brawl soon made its way into the ring, 'The Irish Lass Kicker' getting the upper hand after an Enziguri. While standing on the ring apron, Becky placed Billie on her shoulders in a Fireman's Carry position, looking back at the two tables that were positioned behind her. Peyton tried to intervene, yelling at Becky, "Let her go!" Becky responded by displaying her strength and putting Peyton on top of Billie, now carrying two Iconic members on her shoulders. Becky fell back and sent Billie and Peyton through the two tables with a Samoan Drop! Emma slid into the ring and looked at the chaotic scene, her two stablemates down and out of the match for good. When she turned around, she noticed Nicole still on her heels. Emma went for a strike that Nicole was able to block. Nicole hit Emma with a knee to her jaw before hoisting her up for a Razor's Edge. Nicole then sent Emma flying out of the ring through a table of her own! "All three members of Iconic have just been put to rest via tables!" said Ranallo. The star-making performance for Nicole took a turn for the worst when Kaitlyn entered the ring and took her out with a Spear! Kaitlyn stood tall over Nicole, talking trash to the NXT superstar for a bit before Bayley turned her around. Kaitlyn was planted with a Bayley-to-Belly, the former NXT Women's Champion getting the cover. Just a split second before the official could make the three count, Alexa leveled Bayley in the back with a lead pipe! Alexa rolled Bayley out of the ring, looking over her shoulder and noticing AJ crawling underneath the bottom rope. Alexa looked at the lead pipe that was in her hand, remembering that at the Royal Rumble, AJ used that exact weapon to get her disqualified. "If you ask Alexa, karma and AJ Lee are one in the same," said Graves before Alexa hit AJ in her clavicle with the pipe. Alexa could have gotten the pinfall at that moment, but she decided that she wasn't finished yet. She wanted to make her WrestleMania opponent suffer, and she knew exactly how to do that.
Alexa exited the squared circle and lifted the ring skirt to bring out a small black bag of thumbtacks.
"Those thumbtacks allowed Alexa Bliss to become the WWE Women's Champion, and now, she wants history to repeat itself here in the WarGames match," Ranallo stated as Alexa grinned villainously at the unknowing AJ. Alexa, who had previously denounced the hardcore style of the women's division, now embraced the violence for the sake of torturing AJ. Alexa opened the bag and turned it upside down, thousands of thumbtacks pouring out onto the canvas. Alexa spread the tacks out a bit before grabbing AJ, forcing her to look at them. "Welcome to hell," Alexa told AJ, stealing the apparent catchphrase of the former champion. Alexa then perched AJ onto the top rope, looking for a Superplex onto the thumbtacks. Alexa stepped onto the second rope when AJ began retaliating with body shots. The two began exchanging strikes, AJ getting the better of Alexa in that department. Alexa teetered and tried holding onto the ropes, but AJ continued to defend herself. AJ managed to get Alexa to the point where she could not longer throw strikes of any sort, pushing her off of the second rope and onto the thumbtacks! The fans in the Target Center rejoiced as Alexa laid flat on the pile of thumbtacks that were now lodged into her skin for the very first time. The WWE Women's Champion screamed in agony while looking up at the ceiling, tears coming out of her eyes. At that moment, Alexa realized that her journey to "clean" the women's division of its violence and brutality had come to an end. She allowed herself to become embroiled in the very style that she spoke heavily against, and now, she was the one who was suffering as a result of the corruption that comes with the territory of being a WWE superstar in 2014. Alexa Bliss has been defeated. Spiritually and literally because while she was laying on the thumbtacks, Sofia soared through the air with a Frog Splash! Sofia got the cover on Alexa, the official making the three count that brought the first ever women's WarGames match to an end.
TEAM AJ LEE DEFEATS TEAM ALEXA BLISS!
At the sound of the closing bell, Sofia Cortez rose to her feet and removed the few thumbtacks that pierced her forearms after the Frog Splash to Alexa Bliss. "Sofia Cortez has finally pinned Alexa Bliss! She's just scored a victory over the Women's Champion!" Mauro Ranallo said while Sofia stood on the second rope and looked out at the sea of WWE fans who were not only appreciative of her performance, but every woman who had just competed in the first ever women's WarGames match. AJ Lee stood in the same spot of the ring for a few seconds, staring at Sofia. "You've got to wonder how this result might impact WrestleMania. AJ Lee is the number one contender for April 6th, but Sofia just pinned the reigning champion," Corey Graves stated, planting the thought in the minds of the WWE Universe that Sofia could've just changed the landscape of WrestleMania. Sofia and AJ stared at one another, the former being the first to leave the ring as the WarGames structure rose from the ground. Bayley, Becky Lynch and Nicole Matthews all followed her, the three women from NXT leaving their impression just a few weeks before the Draft that could change any and all of their lives. AJ remained in the ring, looking down at Alexa, who had not yet moved from the pile of thumbtacks. The two WrestleMania opponents locked eyes, neither saying anything. They believed that their actions during the match spoke for them, and the next time they did battle, it would be in front of over 70,000 fans in New Orleans on the biggest stage in the world. AJ finally left the ring, Sofia's music silences as the focus was placed on Alexa and her fallen teammates. Emma had to be assisted up the entrance ramp by two officials after receiving a Razor's Edge through a table from Nicole. Billie Kay and Peyton Royce helped each other toward the backstage area, the commentators pointing out that none of the three Iconic members even bothered trying to attend to Alexa. Lastly, Kaitlyn slowly rolled into the ring, staring at the WWE Women's Champion. "Kaitlyn... Please! Help!" Alexa cried, Kaitlyn not immediately assisting her. 'The Hybrid Diva' continued to stare at Alexa in a moment where the lyrics to this match's theme song began resonating with 'Five Feet of Fury.' "I think I need help 'cause I'm drowning in myself. It's sinking in, I can't pretend that I ain't been through hell." Kaitlyn had a choice to make. Help the woman who she brought into the mess known as the Women's Championship picture, or leave her all alone and send a clear message that at WrestleMania, she won't have anyone by her side. Ultimately, Kaitlyn chose the latter as she exited the ring, Alexa losing the support of her entire team at once. Two of the officials for the match had to enter the ring and pull Alexa out of the thumbtack pile, cameras showing her back pierced with blood visible in certain spots. Alexa slowly stood to her feet, looking at the thumbtacks for the first time after becoming a victim of them herself. She then looked around at the carnage that surrounded the ring before finally glancing at the WarGames structure that no longer surrounded. "That woman just went through hell and back... And she has to go back again soon," Graves said while the WrestleMania sign loomed behind Alexa. She still has the WWE Women's Championship, but she just lost everything else. Her allies, her undefeated streak as champion, and perhaps most of all, any bit of humanity that she might have had left.
Backstage, WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman was shown barely arriving to the arena, his fist taped after what one could only assume was an act of rage upon learning that Paige will be replacing CM Punk on Team AJ Styles in tonight's main event. The champion, who had the title draped over his shoulder, walked into his locker room, only to be met by three of his four teammates tonight. Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens and Bobby Roode. "Hey there, captain," Rollins said, putting sarcastic emphasis on the last word. "We've been here for hours already. None of us know where Bray is, but frankly, we don't care to find out. We just think it's ironic that after weeks of you berating AJ Styles for never being there for his team, you show up the last minute on the night where it matters the most," Roode stated. Owens then told Bateman that he was beginning to question why he ever agreed to be on his team in the first place. "Is getting the chance to destroy AJ Styles, Paige, Dean Ambrose, Cody Rhodes and The Undertaker really worth having to listening to an incompetent leader?" Bateman lashed out at his three teammates, telling them that now isn't the time to start questioning his leadership. "Wait... Wait," Rollins said while stepping in between Bateman and the rest of the team that was present. "I know why you're late. It's not because you don't care about this team... You wanted to avoid Paige because... I can't believe I'm saying this, but your'e scared of her. The man who has the audacity to go by the title 'The Devil Himself' is afraid of a 5'8, 120 pound child." Bateman responded by saying that he's not afraid of Paige, nor was he trying to avoid her. "Am I upset that she's in this match now? You're damn right because all I wanted was to leave her in the past. Now, she's going to be coming after not just me, but each and every one of you. So if that bitch pulls out barbed wire or thumbtacks or fire or whatever the hell, I don't want to hear any of you cry out for help." Owens then noted that Bateman did indeed sound like someone who was scared of Paige. "... You know what? You guys want me to prove that I'm not scared of Paige? Huh? Is that what you want? Then how about this. Tonight, I'll go out first for the team. Now that I've made that public information, tell me that Paige won't volunteer herself to enter first for Styles' team? And you want to know something else? You guys have much more than you think at stake tonight, because I'm making a promise right now that I intend to keep. If we win WarGames, ALL of you will get opportunities at my Universal Championship! So will Bray, wherever he is. Now... Are you guys going to stand behind me... Or are you going to let the biggest opportunity of your careers go to crap?" Rollins, Roode and Owens all glared at each other, the promise of future Universal Championship matches being enough to persuade them to remain loyal to Bateman.
Bateman just promised his teammates Universal Championship shots if they're victorious tonight, and anyone who knows Rollins, Wyatt, Owens and Roode will know that they're going to hold him to that.
"Awwww Minneapolis! Don't you dare be sour! Clap your hands and feel the power! It's a new day, yes it is!" A mostly positive reaction emerged for the arrival of The New Day, who were about to face their toughest and most important challenge to date as a trio. "The demeanor of The New Day couldn't be more different than usual. Normally looking like the Seattle Seahawks during the Super Bowl, they're starting to resemble the Denver Broncos instead," Mauro Ranallo said, Corey Graves adding that per order of SmackDown General Manager Kurt Angle, it'll be Big E and Xavier Woods who go into Match 7 for the WWE Tag Team Championships. "Up until this point, every match in this series saw Big E and Kofi Kingston team up with Xavier Woods looking on from ringside. Now, Xavier needs to step up and be the difference maker for The New Day because otherwise, they're going down in WWE history as the only team to ever blow a 3-1 lead in a Best of Seven Series." Not doing their usual shenanigans, Xavier and Big E simply stepped into the ring while Kingston stood by at ringside, the trio ready to shatter The Alpha Wolves' hopes of winning the series, along with their five month reign as WWE Tag Team Champions. Davey Richards and Eddie Edwards' entrance music sounded as the two of them made their way out to the stage, raising the Tag Team Titles to show the world and New Day what this contest was all about. After months of trading wins, one team would leave Battleground as the winner of the Best of Seven Series. The Alpha Wolves entered the squared circle, handing over the Tag Team Titles to the official. After the bell sounded, Edwards and Woods started things off. Woods immediately hit Edwards in the face with a forearm strike, the latter responding with a heavy slap. The dazed Woods was pushed into a corner, Edwards Irish Whipping him into the opposite one. Edwards charged into Woods before raising him up for a Brainbuster, Woods countering it into an inside cradle. Edwards was quickly able to kick out, Woods charging toward him with a running knee. Edwards caught Woods' leg in motion, slingshotting him into his corner. Richards got his feet up and kicked Woods in the face before Edwards tagged him in. Richards ascended to the second rope, coming down with a Missile Dropkick to Woods. One-half of the WWE Tag Team Champions went for a cover, Woods able to get a shoulder up at two. Richards looked over at the corner of New Day, holding up three fingers with one hand and only his index finger with the other. "3-1. That's the record that will forever haunt The New Day if they lose," Graves said. Richards grabbed Woods' legs, looking to apply what appeared to be a Sharpshooter. Woods quickly latched onto the bottom rope, the official pulling Richards away. Woods rolled out to ringside, Richards choosing to go after him. While Richards stood in the ring apron, Big E ran into him like an oncoming train! Richards crashed onto the ring apron before sliding off, Woods receiving the opening that he needed to take control of the match. "This is what New Day need to do in order to win. They allowed The Alpha Wolves to come back from a huge deficit. By any means necessary," Graves said to justify New Day's underhanded tactics.
Woods picked Richards up off of the floor and teased rolling him into the ring, but instead threw him into the barricade. Woods picked up Francesca and began playing the "New! Day rocks!" melody, a portion of the fans in Minneapolis singing to the rhythm. Woods finally got Richards back into the ring, tagging Big E in before heading to the top rope. Woods descended with an Elbow Drop to Richards, Big E running into the ring and delivering a huge Splash! Big E got the cover, but Richards just barely managed to get his shoulder up after two. Big E rose to his feet and toyed with Richards, the Alpha Wolves member having to use Big E's singlet to help himself up. Big E hoisted Richards off of his feet in a Gorilla Press position, keeping him there for more than a few seconds. Richards was able to counter whatever Big E had in mind with a DDT, the WWE Universe trying to give Richards the strength he needed to make the hot tag to Edwards. Richards crawled towards his corner, but Big E grabbed him by his ankle. Richards tried kicking Big E away, repeatedly shoving the sole his boot into his nose. Richards eventually broke free, continuing on his way to tag in Edwards. Instead of choosing to stop Richards from making the tag, Big E tried stopping Edwards from being tagged in. Big E charged into Edwards and knocked him off of the ring apron. Richards then surprised Big E by rolling him up, only getting a two count out of it. Big E rolled over onto his knees, Richards connecting with a Superkick! Richards then got a hold of Big E, going for the unthinkable as he set him up for a Brainbuster. Richards tried valiantly, but he just couldn't lift Big E up vertically. Big E was able to get Richards up, but Richards slid free and landed on his feet. When Big E turned around, Richards hit him with a headbutt to his collarbone. Richards followed up with a Tornado DDT, using the middle turnbuckle for assistance. Richards was on fire, but recognized that his burst of momentum wasn't going to withstand much more. He crawled towards Edwards, who had already gotten back onto the ring apron by that point. Edwards was tagged in, immediately rushing into Big E with double knees against a corner. Edwards then ran toward Woods and caught him with a forearm before deciding to finish the trifecta and leap out of the ring with a Suicide Dive to Kingston! Edwards went back to the top rope, attempting a Crossbody. However, Big E caught him in mid-air and delivered the Big Ending! "This is it! New champion!" Graves yelled out as Big E got the cover, but Richards intervened and saved he and Edwards' WWE Tag Team Championship reign for the time being. Surprisingly, many in the WWE Universe booed The Alpha Wolves as they were hoping for a New Day victory. Richards tried Superkicking Big E, but his foot was caught. Big E threw Richards across the ring with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex before ge tried for the Big Ending again. This time, Edwards slid off of his shoulder and delivered a Backstabber! Edwards got the cover, but Big E stayed in the contest with a kickout. Chants of "This is awesome!" emerged from the fans in Minneapolis who appreciated the efforts from both teams, though it was still clear that they were ready to celebrate New Day's becoming of WWE Tag Team Champions. Edwards called Richards over, the two wanting to deliver Hunting Season and finish off The New Day. Almost immediately thereafter, Woods springboarded off of the top rope and hit The Alpha Wolves with Dropkicks! Woods picked Richards up and threw him out of the ring, trying to follow up with a Suicide Dive. Richards was able to catch Woods as he flew toward him, lifting him up for a Vertical Suplex that saw Woods land lower-back first onto the edge of the announce table before the back of his smacked against the floor. Richards moved out of the way as the dazed Woods staggered to his feet, Edwards leaping over the top rope with a Tope Con Hilo! Edwards and Richards left Woods laid out at ringside as they tried to re-enter the ring, but while they stood on the apron, Big E ran into them with a Spear through the ropes! All four participants in the match were immobile at ringside, the WWE Universe once again giving them a standing ovation. Kingston made his way over to that side of the ring, trying to rally on Big E and Woods. "This is everything we've worked for! Come on!" he shouted as Big E started showing signs of life. Kingston began a "New! Day rocks!" chant to try to will Big E on, the fans in the Target Center joining him. "I would question the support for The New Day, but after their performance thus far tonight, I can't deny that they've earned the respect of the WWE Universe," Ranallo stated. Big E grabbed Edwards and rolled him into the ring, pulling down his straps while signaling that the Best-of-Seven Series was about to end. During another Big Ending attempt, Edwards was able to slide out yet again and charge Big E's sternum into the top turnbuckle. Edwards rolled him up, Big E managing to kick out just in time. Edwards caught Big E with a Roundhouse Kick before Richards stepped onto the ring apron. Hunting Season was the maneuver on the minds of the Tag Team Champions, Richards heading up to the top rope. Woods shoved him off, however, Richards landing face-first onto the apron. Big E countered Edwards' Powerbomb attempt with a Back Body Drop. Big E ran the ropes and connected with a Sick Kick that turned Edwards inside out! The fans came unglued as Big E made the tag to Woods before placing Edwards on his shoulder one final time. Woods leaped off of the top rope, the duo delivering the Midnight Hour! Woods got the cover on Edwards, the three count being made to end the Best-of-Seven Series and crown new WWE Tag Team Champions!
THE NEW DAY ARE THE NEW WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS!
"The comeback is dead! New Day are the champions!" Corey Graves exclaimed over the thunderous crowd in Minneapolis who got the New Day victory that the majority of them had been hoping for. Big E and Xavier Woods hugged each other before Kofi Kingston joined them in the ring, the trio showing genuine emotion as they were handed the WWE Tag Team Championships after spoiling The Alpha Wolves' hopes for the biggest comeback in WWE history. Before The New Day formed, all three members struggled to find success in any avenue in WWE. Kingston treaded water. Big E barely received any time on television. Woods came up from NXT without much direction in his career, and one decision from all of them changed everything. The decision to band together and spread the Power of Positivity has resulted in The New Day becoming WWE Tag Team Champions for the first time as a trio. "New! Day rocks!" chanted the WWE Universe while Woods blared the melody on Francesca, Kingston and Big E raising him onto their shoulders. "Laughing stocks of the company no longer. Now, The New Day celebrate as the new WWE Tag Team Champions here at Battleground!"
A promo was shown for Monday Night RAW's return to two hours, beginning tomorrow night at 8E/5P on USA.
Backstage, Dario Cueto was shown in his office, speaking on the phone with the RAW Commissioner, Stephanie McMahon. "I know, Stephanie. I know. But just open up social media, why don't you? Look at the response from the WWE Universe toward this. They never wanted to see Paige beat the hell out of Allie, but they do want to see Paige compete in WarGames tonight. And you know what? So do I because with her in the same match as Derrick Bateman and Bray Wyatt, we are guaranteed the thing that I love more than anything else in the world: Violence! I'm not taking her out of the match and if you have an issue with that, you can address it tomorrow night on RAW." During Dario's conversation with Stephanie, a knock was heard on the door. "Go away, I'm busy!" he yelled out to whoever was wanting to speak with him. "Why are you upset? So what if Allie didn't get pulverized? Paige might and isn't that what you want? For her to suffer?" The door to the office opened, Dario not noticing until a hand took his phone away and threw it onto the ground. "What the hell is your problem!? Do you know who I am!?" Dario shouted to whoever interrupted him. However, his tone and demeanor immediately flipped when he turned around and saw Roman Reigns standing across from him. "Do I know who you are? Little man, do you know who I am?" Reigns asked, Dario answering with, "Y-Yeah. Of course. You're Roman Reigns." "Damn right I am," Reigns said as his introduction to Dario. "I... I thought you were going to be out of action until the summer?" Dario asked, Reigns telling him that nothing was going to stop him from competing at WrestleMania. "In a few weeks, I'll be medically cleared to compete, and what I want to know is where you intend on putting me at WrestleMania? I didn't get the chance to compete for the Universal Championship at the Royal Rumble. AJ Styles still needs an opponent for the WWE Championship. You've got plenty of options, Dario, and sooner than later, I expect to hear from you about what 'The One Man Army' is gonna be doing at the biggest WrestleMania of all-time. Do you understand?" Dario nodded his head up and down, assuring Reigns that he would find the perfect spot for him at WrestleMania. "I know you will. Otherwise..." Reigns said as he clenched his fist in front of Dario's face.
24 hours of confinement with no food, water or sunlight. That's what Samoa Joe, Braun Strowman, Baron Corbin and Rusev just finished enduring before being let loose in WWE's first ever Monster's Ball match. Corbin's entrance music was the first to play, 'The Lone Wolf' walking out into darkness. When the lights shined during his entrance, Corbin shielded his eyes and looked away from the camera. Corbin slowly walked down to the ring, removing his arm from his face to try to adjust to the bright lights in the Target Center after spending a full day in darkness. The disoriented Corbin stepped into the squared circle and pulled on the top rope, Corey Graves pointing out that it looked like his hands were shaking as a result of his starvation.
Rusev was the next competitor to make his way out into the Target Center, chugging a gallon of water that he found on his way to the gorilla position. "Is that cheating?" Graves asked, Mauro Ranallo stating that it technically wasn't since the 24 hours expired when Rusev was released from confinement. 'The Bulgarian Brute' stepped through the ropes and tossed the gallon into the face of Corbin, 'The Lone Wolf' trying to retaliate. Two officials had to hold Corbin back, Rusev shouting at him in his native tongue. As he was backing into a corner, Rusev glanced up at the lighting rig and quickly turned his head away, also having issues adjusting to the lights.
The roar that preluded Braun Strowman's entrance theme rang throughout the Target Center as 'The Monster Among Men' made his way out third. Strowman raised both arms and shouted at the top of his lungs before marching down to the ring, pointing at both Rusev and Corbin to let them know that they were about to be decimated at his hands. Before entering the ring, Strowman kicked the steel steps over, Ranallo and Graves unsure if it was a burst of rage induced by his 24 hour confinement, or just Strowman being Strowman. Nonetheless, he stepped over the top rope and was kept away from Corbin and Rusev, all three men ready to get the contest started.
The only superstar in this match who had competed in a Monster's Ball previously, Samoa Joe, was the final one out, Joe not showing the same side effects as his three adversaries. While he did squint his eyes at the sudden emergence of light, 'The Samoan Submission' walked down to the squared circle with as much authority as ever. When Joe entered the ring, he threw his towel onto the canvas and immediately went after Strowman! The bell sounded as Joe and Strowman continued slugging it out, Rusev and Corbin doing the same. Joe placed Strowman in a corner and delivered a knife edge chop that literally had no effect! Strowman screamed in Joe's face before 'The Samoan Submission Machine' shoved him back into the corner and connected with an onslaught of chops, similar to what Kenta Kobashi did to him in their 2005 encounter. Outside, Corbin lifted Rusev off of his feet and rammed him into the steel ring post. Rusev barely showed any signs of wear as he hit Corbin with a headbutt before Superkicking him over the barricade. Rusev went after Corbin in the audience, taking someone's chair and sitting him down in it. Rusev took a few steps back before leaping into Corbin with a Cannonball! "Rusev and Corbin are ripping into one another in the stands, but they need to keep in mind that this isn't Falls Count Anywhere. This match needs to end in the ring, no matter how badly these four monsters beat each other," Graves stated. In the squared circle, Joe hit Strowman with a few jabs before running the ropes. While Joe was in motion, Strowman actually caught him with a Dropkick! Strowman picked Joe up and threw him to the outside, 'The Monster Among Men' picking up the steel steps that he kicked over prior to the start of the match. He charged into Joe and struck him in his left shoulder with the steps before throwing them down. Strowman dragged the lower part of the steps over to Joe and picked him up off of the ground, gripping both hands onto Joe's neck. Strowman tried lifting Joe up for a two-handed Chokeslam, but Joe was able to force Strowman's hands off of him! Joe picked Strowman up with a Spinebuster onto the steps, following up with a Senton! The chants of "Joe!" rained down from the WWE Universe, Joe bobbing his head to the rally. When Joe turned around, Rusev came charging into him with a Clothesline that just about took his head off! Rusev picked Joe up and rolled him into the ring, covering him for a two count. Rusev stomped on Joe for a bit before noticing Strowman getting up to his feet. At that moment, Corbin made his way back into the ring and struck Rusev from behind. Strowman stepped onto the ring apron, but Corbin shoved him off. Corbin then grabbed Rusev and threw him out to the ring, setting his sights on Joe at that point. Unfortunately for Corbin, Joe jumped into the air and hit him with an Enziguri! Corbin rolled out to ringside, Joe noticing that all three of his opponents were either down or just getting back up to their feet. Joe ran the ropes and leaped out of the ring with a Suicide Dive, taking out everyone in his path! Joe grabbed Strowman and rolled him into the ring, stalking him while Graves noted that Joe wanting to go for the submission victory could cost him. "He has the perfect opening to get the win, but he's going after the biggest threat in the match, and he's trying to choke him out." Joe applied the Coquina Clutch, but struggled to take Strowman down to the canvas. Strowman was able to back Joe into a corner, freeing himself in the process. With Joe groggy against the turnbuckles, Strowman ran into the opposite corner and was looking to crush Joe. While Strowman was running, Corbin slid into the ring and caught him for the End of Days! Strowman went face-first into the canvas before Joe charged into Corbin with a knee strike to the side of his head. Almost immediately thereafter, Rusev nailed Joe with a Spinning Heel Kick! All four men were down and out as the WWE Universe members in Minneapolis showed their appreciation for the hard hitting action from four of WWE's behemoths. Rusev got to his feet first, stomping on the back of Strowman before applying the Accolade! Rusev reeled back on Strowman's head as far as he could, Strowman's body being so large that Rusev's back literally had to come within inches of touching the canvas just to the hold could reach its max potential for agony. Joe went behind Rusev and applied the Coquina Clutch, two submission holds being applied with full force in the center of the ring. Corbin broke up both holds with a steel chair, striking all three of his opponents in their backs. 'The Lone Wolf' set the chair flat on the canvas and picked Joe up, holding him by his wrist to bring him in for the End of Days. Joe, however, was able to counter it and planted Corbin onto the chair with a Urinage! Joe was then grabbed by Strowman, who delivered a Saito Suplex. Rusev rushed into Strowman and Clotheslined him over the top rope, the two monsters fighting up the entrance ramp. Rusev hit Strowman with a series of strikes on the stage before kicking him in the mid-section, following up with one huge kick to the head. Strowman looked to be in the most danger that he ever has, literally crawling towards the LED board that displayed the Battleground graphics. Rusev looked at the position that Strowman was in and had flashbacks to last year's Battleground event, where he and Ryback crashed through the stage. "No, Rusev. Don't..." Graves muttered as Rusev let out a roar before charging into Strowman, both men going through the LED board! A group of officials rushed over to the scene, panicking over the fact that both Strowman and Rusev were likely seriously injured as a result of their crash. The replay was shown three times while the Target Center's "holy crap!" chants echoed throughout the atmosphere.
Back in the ring, Joe and Corbin showed signs of life, both men eyeing the steel chair in the center of the ring. They each grabbed an end of the chair, engaging in a tug of war over it. Corbin purposely let go of the chair, giving him the opening to catch Joe with a Big Boot. Corbin rolled Joe out to ringside, following him before grabbing the chair from underneath the bottom rope. Corbin hit Joe once in the back with the chair, delivering a second one after it was made apparent that Joe wouldn't go down easily. Corbin dropped the chair and charged towards Joe, who caught him with a Scoop Powerslam onto the floor! Joe rose to his feet and grabbed the steel chair, setting it up next to the barricade and seating Corbin in it. Joe backed away before running into Corbin with the sole of his foot, crushing his head against the barricade! Joe took a hold of Corbin by his head, rushing into the barricade on the opposing side. Joe continued to punish Corbin by stomping on him, cameras cutting to the stage as officials still tended to Rusev and Strowman. Suddenly, Strowman's hands emerged from the pit of darkness onto the stage, 'The Monster Among Men' rising to his feet! "Are you kidding me?!?" Ranallo shouted, Graves equally freaked. "Strowman was the one who was put through the LED board! He got the worse end of the fall, yet he's standing on his own two feet and Rusev has yet to move a muscle!" Strowman climbed back onto the stage and popped his neck before marching down to the ring. Joe shifted his focus from Corbin to Strowman, the two of them exchanging blows just like they did at the start of the match. While Joe was blocking Strowman's strikes, he wrapped his arms around his waist and charged him into the time keeper's area, breaking through the barricade! For the second time, Strowman's body obliterated a barrier, Joe hoping that this one would keep him down. Joe re-entered the ring after noticing that Corbin had slid in. Joe rushed into Corbin, who planted him with Deep Six! Corbin covered Joe, but 'The Samoan Submission Machine' stayed alive by kicking out at two. Corbin decided to try to humiliate Joe, sizing him up for a Coquina Clutch. Corbin tried cinching the hold in, but Joe was able to counter it with a Stunner variation. Corbin backed into a corner, Joe perching him onto the top rope for a Muscle Buster. Before he could deliver it, Strowman somehow got back up to his feet and literally took a piece of the broken barricade into the ring with him. He leveled Joe in the back with before rolling him out to ringside. Strowman went after Corbin, who caught him with an uppercut. Corbin stepped back down onto the canvas, hitting Strowman with a Big Boot that barely rattled 'The Monster Among Men.' Corbin grabbed his wrist and brought him closer for a forearm strike, repeating this three times before finally going for the End of Days. Instead, Strowman ran into him with a Clothesline. Strowman quickly hoisted Corbin onto his shoulder, delivering a Running Powerslam! Strowman covered Corbin, the three count being made to conclude WWE's first ever Monsters' Ball.
BRAUN STROWMAN WINS MONSTER'S BALL!
At the sound of the closing bell, Braun Strowman rose to his feet and let out a massive roar after having won the first ever Monster's Ball match under the WWE umbrella. Strowman glanced down at the fallen Baron Corbin, who lied motionlessly as a result of the Running Powerslam that finished him off. Over on the stage, Rusev was still being tended to after crashing through the LED board with Strowman, who somehow got back to his feet and managed to emerge victorious. "We talk about Derrick Bateman and Bray Wyatt being the two most dangerous men in WWE today. There's one more name you need to add to that list, and not only add him, but place him at the very top because Braun Strowman is unlike anything we've ever seen before. Bateman is evil. Wyatt is a monster. Strowman is both," said Corey Graves. Strowman made his way up the entrance ramp, but while he was doing so, cameras turned to Samoa Joe, who got back up to his feet at ringside. Joe looked on at Strowman with an expression of outrage. Strowman pinned Rusev on SmackDown. He pinned Corbin tonight at Battleground. He still has yet to defeat Joe.
Backstage, the trio of Iconic - Billie Kay, Peyton Royce and NXT Women's Champion Emma - were shown leaving the Target Center, all three showing the effects of the first ever women's WarGames match earlier tonight. Emma led the way, holding her championship over her shoulder while Peyton noted to Billie that her back still hurt after being put through a table by Becky Lynch. "The hotel has an ice bath. We'll be fine," Billie said as the three continued on their way before a locker room door opened, the trio being greeted by AJ Lee, the superstar who captained the victorious team. AJ stopped and glared at Emma, Billie and Peyton, the three NXT superstars unsure of how to respond. Not too long ago, they Powerbombed AJ onto a barbed wire board, and if she wanted to, she could have extracted revenge at that very moment. Instead, AJ's demeanor switched from menacing to bubbly in a heartbeat. "... That was fun! We should do that again some time," AJ said with a huge smile on her face before skipping out of the frame. Iconic looked on at AJ, the three of them fully aware that by agreeing to be on Alexa Bliss' team, they may have made a lifelong enemy out of AJ in the process.
Returning to the Target Center, Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves attempted to gather their thoughts after a hellacious Monster's Ball match. "And as we just saw, we almost had another one backstage between AJ Lee and Iconic," Graves said. "Iconic were one of the many NXT superstars who received the opportunity to compete on the main roster here tonight, and coming up next, Hideo Itami has his chance," Ranallo said before the feed transitioned to a video package. At the Royal Rumble last month, John Cena made his return and declared that if the 'New Era' wanted to take over WWE, they'd have to go through him. Cena failed to become the first ever WWE Universal Champion, an accolade that would instead go to Derrick Bateman. The following night on RAW, Cena made it clear that he intends on challenging Bateman at WrestleMania XXX for the Universal Title. Paul Heyman, however, confronted Cena and notified him of Brock Lesnar's intentions to do the same. Cena and Heyman's meeting became physical as Cena delivered an Attitude Adjustment to Lesnar's advocate. One week later, Heyman informed Cena that at Battleground, his client would get revenge on his behalf. However, the client Heyman was referring to was not 'The Beast Incarnate.' Instead, Hideo Itami shocked the world by laying Cena out with a Burning Hammer in the center of the ring. In a dream match that many believed they would never see, Cena and Itami clash one-on-one for the first time ever. For Cena, his hopes of challenging for the Universal Title at WrestleMania hang in the balance. If he cannot get past Itami, he undoubtedly falls out of contention. For Itami, the biggest week of his career is on the verge of becoming his biggest nightmare. He failed to capture the NXT Championship this past Wednesday at TakeOver: R Evolution. If he loses to Cena as well, where does that put Itami on the radar of RAW and SmackDown Live for the Draft? Something's gotta give in a dream match for the ages. Cena. Itami. One-on-one. First time ever. Now.
"Ladies and gentlemen..." said Paul Heyman as he made his way out to a thunderous ovation from the WWE Universe members in the Target Center. "Ladies and gentlemen, my name is Paul Heyman and I am the advocate for the two most feared and revered athletes in the world of professional wrestling today. The first of whom you all know very, very well. A Minneapolis native. A graduate of the University of Minnesota, where he became NCAA Division I Heavyweight Champion. 'The Conqueror'! 'The Beast Incarnate'! And the man who will take Derrick Bateman to Suplex City in the middle of New Orleans on April 6th to become WWE Universal Champion! Brock! Lesnar!" Heyman stopped for a moment to allow the crowd to show their appreciation for Lesnar before continuing on. "Tonight, however, is not about Brock Lesnar. Tonight is about my other client. The man who WILL become NXT Champion sooner than later. The man who will shock each and every single person watching around the world by defeating 'The Face That Runs the Place' in his Pay-Per-View debut. Ladies and gentlemen, I give to you all... Hideo Itami!" Another huge pop emerged as Itami stepped out onto the stage, sporting the same Oni mask that he did at NXT TakeOver: R Evolution just a few nights ago. Itami removed the mask and marched down to the ring, his facial expression showing that just like usual, he was all business tonight. "Hideo Itami's reputation is at stake in this match. He came to WWE a year ago, leaving behind a legacy in Pro Wrestling NOAH as one of the greatest to ever step foot in a squared circle. To many, he's underwhelmed since signing. That isn't to say he hasn't achieved anything because he absolutely has. He's a former NXT Tag Team Champion. He defeated the legendary Jushin 'Thunder' Liger. He's one of the hottest prospects in NXT for Stephanie McMahon, Dario Cueto, Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle to look at for the upcoming Draft. The problem is that the WWE Universe expected more from Itami, considering the name value that he carried coming over here. One year later and he still hasn't become NXT Champion. He turned a lot of his believers into naysayers by aligning himself with Paul Heymn. This is THE most important match in not just Itami's WWE career, but his career, period. Everything that he's ever worked for is at stake against John Cena. If Itami fails, one has to ask where he goes from here," Graves said with great passion to put over just how important this match was to Itami. This is make or break for one of NXT's biggest signings to date. Beat John Cena, or go back to Full Sail with back-to-back losses.
At the sound of the intro to John Cena's entrance music, the fans in the Target Center responded with either massive cheers or enormous boos. Not in between. Cena walked through the curtain and looked at out the sea of WWE Universe members, once again embracing the "John Cena sucks!" chants. "See that?" Cena said to the camera while pointing at the WrestleMania XXX sign. "That's the goal. Never lose sight of that," Cena stated before running into the ring, stopping immediately to stare down Itami for a bit before continuing on with his usual entrance routine. "You talked about what Hideo Itami has riding on the line. If you ask John Cena, he has just as much at stake. He wants the WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania, and a loss here won't bode well with those in power," Ranallo said, Graves responding by lashing out at him. "If John Cena doesn't beat Hideo Itami, it's not the end of his career! He might not get the Universal Title match at WrestleMania, but guess what? He's John Cena! He'll still have a match at WrestleMania. He'll still someday become Universal Champion. You know who won't be on WrestleMania without a victory here? You know who won't be looked at as a future champion without a victory here? The man standing across from John Cena and the fact that anybody thinks that the stakes are equal between both competitors is a joke. John Cena will be fine if he doesn't win here. He doesn't NEED this. Hideo Itami does."
When the bell sounded, Itami rushed toward Cena with a jumping knee strike, rattling Cena and sending him into a corner! Itami fired away with repeated kicks to Cena's chest in the corner, Ranallo noting that he was uncertain about Itami's strategy here. "Itami is rushing. He's taking out his frustrations from TakeOver onto Cena, but that's not how you beat Cena. It's an endurance battle against him." Cena was able to shoved away Itami, who tried charing into him again. Cena caught Itami and hoisted him onto his shoulders for an Attitude Adjustment. Itami broke free and slid behind Cena, locking him in place for a Dragon Suplex and dropping Cena onto the back of his head with it! Itami backed away, throwing away his strategy of rushing Cena. 'The Face That Runs the Place' rose to his feet while holding his head, telling Itami, "So we're doing it like that, are we?" Cena then charged into Itami, lifting him off of his feet and sending him into a corner. Cena hit repeated strikes to Itami, who was able to grab Cena's arm and twist it to stop the onslaught. Itami turned Cena around and delivered a German Suplex, holding onto him for another one. "John Cena's not fighting Brock Lesnar right now, but he's still being taken to Suplex City," said Graves. During Itami's attempt for a third German Suplex, Cena managed to land on his feet! Itami stood up and ate a Clothesline from Cena, followed by another one. Cena picked Itami up for his patented spin-out Powerbomb, Itami striking him and preventing the maneuver. Both men fell over the top rope simultaneously, Itami being the first to stand back up. Itami stalked the prone Cena and attempted a Penalty Kick, shades of Katsuyori Shibata. Cena, however, grabbed Itami's leg right before it could make contact with him. Cena stood up and threw Itami's leg to the side, causing it to crash against the ring post. Itami held his leg in agony as Cena planted him with a Back Suplex onto the floor. Cena rolled Itami into the ring before heading up to the top rope for a Leg Drop. Itami fought through the pain that compromised his leg as he lunged himself into the ropes, causing Cena to fall onto the top turnbuckle. Itami limped over to the corner and slowly climbed to the top rope to join Cena. Itami hit him with a few forearm strikes, Cena responding with some of his own. Itami hit Cena with two headbutts, now having 'The Face That Runs the Place' right where he wanted him. Itami then took Cena with a top rope Bloody Sunday! Both men remained down on the canvas, Itami soon crawling towards Cena's body while Graves pointed out the irony of the situation. "Hideo Itami turned his back on Finn Balor months so ago, so imagine if Itami is actually able to defeat Cena with Balor's own move!" Itami got the cover on Cena, but only received a two count. Itami slowly stirred to his feet, grabbing Cena by his head. Itami delivered a huge knee strike to the face of Cena, following up with another one. Itami released his hold on Cena, who fell back down onto the canvas. Itami lifted Cena's head up and hit him with a knife edge chop, Cena showing little signs of wear. Cena pointed to his chest, telling Itami to hit him with another one. Itami did so, and again, and again, and again at the request of Cena, who appeared to gain momentum with every chop from Itami. Cena gave a chop of his own to Itami, who fell onto one knee afterwards. Cena grabbed Itami by his neck, bouncing his feet off of the second turnbuckle for a Tornado DDT. Cena covered Itami, who was able to kick out relatively quickly. Cena responded by sitting Itami up, applying a Headlock while glancing over at Heyman. "Tell Brock not to bother showing up at WrestleMania. Not like it'll be out of the ordinary for him to miss a show," Cena said to Heyman, Graves once again criticizing the WWE's franchise player. "John, this isn't about Brock Lesnar! You're wrestling Hideo Itami!" When Itami began getting to his feet, Cena released his Headlock and ran the ropes for a Clothesline that caused Itami to fall to the canvas like dead weight. Itami crawled towards a corner, Cena perching him on the top turnbuckle. Cena had revenge on his mind for the top rope Bloody Sunday that he received earlier, but Itami was able to retaliate. Itami shoved Cena off, 'The Face That Runs the Place' managing to land on the ring apron to prevent crashing and burning. Cena continued to strike Itami as he stepped onto the second rope, no one knowing exactly what he had planned. Cena then leaped upward and delivered a top rope Frankensteiner to Itami that sent him all the way to the outside! The impact of Itami's body hitting the floor was malevolent, the thud echoing throughout the arena to the point where Ranallo noted that he heard it from his position on the side of the stage. Heyman grew more concerned, shouting at Itami to get back up. Cena slowly staggered to his feet, carrying Itami's carcass back into the ring. Cena positioned Itami in the center of the ring, throwing up all five finger into the air to let the Target Center know that it was Five Knuckle Shuffle time. "You can't see me," said Cena to Itami as he ran the ropes. While Cena was in motion, Itami miraculously sprang to his feet and drilled him in the face with a Yakuza Kick! Itami struck Cena on both sides of his face repeatedly with slaps, Cena dropping to both knees while Itami continued to punish him. "Where on earth did Itami find this second wind?!?" Graves questioned while Itami backed away, hitting a giant Corkscrew Roundhouse Kick to Cena! Itami had the world behind him as Cena crawled into a corner, resting against it. Itami charged into Cena with a Hesitation Dropkick that caught him directly in the mouth! Itami got to his feet and looked out at the sea of fans who cheered for him, realizing that he was potentially moments away from the biggest win of his career. The Hesitation Dropkick busted Cena's lip open, leading to him wiping a bit of blood away before standing back up. Cena charged towards Itami, who caught him with a knee strike to the mid-section. Itami lifted his leg up and drilled the bottom of his foot into the back of Cena's head before Heyman called him for him to finish the bout. Itami hoisted Cena onto his shoulders for a Burning Hammer, Cena trying valiantly to fight out of it. Cena was able to drop back down onto his feet while keeping a grip on Itami's neck. Cena took Itami down to the mat, applying a Crossface! Itami was blinded by the lock formed by Cena's hands, but pushed forward anyways to whatever rope he could latch onto to break the hold. When Itami neared the bottom rope, Cena released the submission and grabbed Itami by his legs, pulling him into the center of the ring to try to transition into the STF. Itami, however, kicked Cena into the ropes. Itami rose to his feet and dodged a Clothesline from Cena, then missing a forearm strike of his own. Cena ran into Itami's grasp, delivering a Tilt-a-Whirl Headscissors! Itami quickly stood back up, albeit dazed. That allowed Cena to place Itami onto his shoulders, planting him with an Attitude Adjustment! Cena leaped over onto his back, keeping a grip on Itami and standing onto his feet! Cena gave one more Attitude Adjustment, covering Itami for the crucial victory on the Road to WrestleMania.
JOHN CENA DEFEATS HIDEO ITAMI!
The WWE Universe members that packed the Target Center were mixed on the result as John Cena rose to his feet, his arm being raised in victory while he looked to his side at the WrestleMania XXX sign. Cena then turned to the camera that watched him from ringside, motioning for championship gold that he intends on taking at WrestleMania. "Derrick Bateman... Get ready," Cena said, still believing that the Universal Championship match on April 6th will be his. Several highlights from the incredible match were shown while Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves applauded Hideo Itami for his effort against arguably the greatest WWE superstar of all-time. "Hideo Itami came into this match with everything riding on the line. He knew that after failing to become NXT Champion, he had to put up or shut up against John Cena, and he put up in the biggest way that anyone could without being victorious. Itami didn't win the match, but he won the respect and admiration of every single person watching Battleground tonight." While Cena was heading up the entrance ramp, he turned around and saw Itami staggering to his feet in the ring, Paul Heyman needing to help his client. Cena and Itami stared down one another from a distance before 'The Face That Runs the Place' gave a tipping of the cap motion to his opponent. "Thank you," Cena said to Itami before continuing on way to the backstage area literally, but metaphorically, WrestleMania XXX.
In the locker room area, WWE Champion AJ Styles and Cody Rhodes were shown speaking to one another about tonight's WarGames main event while Dean Ambrose paced back and forth in the background. "Um... Do you want to strategize with us over here?" Rhodes asked Ambrose, who turned to him and Styles and said, "I am strategizing. I'm thinking of every way I can torture Seth Rollins." Styles and Rhodes decided to let Ambrose be as they continued on with their conversation. Suddenly, the door to the room opened, Styles, Rhodes and Ambrose turning around to see the Intercontinental Champion CM Punk walking in. "... What?" Punk asked the three of them after he set his bags down on the floor. "... You guys want me to tell him?" Ambrose asked, Punk only growing more confused. "Tell me what?" he asked, Styles asking him if he really hadn't heard the news. "No, AJ. I haven't. I had to take a late flight here and rush over just to make it in time for WarGames. What is it that I need to know?" Styles, Rhodes and Ambrose all glanced at each other before Rhodes came forward to inform Punk of Styles' decision on the Kickoff Show. "We panicked, alright? You weren't here yet and we needed a team. So... You're out," Rhodes said. "... I'm out? The hell does that mean?" Punk asked in a hostile tone, Styles stepping in to prevent another incident between Punk and Rhodes. "It means that I made the only decision I could without you here. Punk, you're hours late. You've ignored us for the last week. You walked out on us on RAW. Can you blame us for thinking that you weren't going to show up?" "Yes! I can because who the hell are you, AJ Styles, to question MY integrity?! You stole his Money in the Bank contract!" Punk said while pointing at Ambrose. "You stole the WWE Title from him at Survivor Series!" he added while pointing at Rhodes. "And now, you're taking away my spot in WarGames?!? And you guys trust this piece of crap to be your captain?!?" The fuming Punk turned around for a bit, flipping a chair and taking a few seconds to calm down before asking another question. "Who did you give my spot to?" After a few seconds of additional silence, Styles told Punk that Paige was their new teammate. "... Paige? Paige? The same Paige who cracked my skull open with a Slammy Award?! That Paige?!?" Punk shouted. "What other Paiges do you know?" Ambrose said, everyone turning to him in either anger of annoyance. "So, let me just try to understand the position that I'm in now because of you three. In less than a year, I go from the main event of WrestleMania... to losing my spot in a WarGames to Paige?" asked Punk, nobody answering him. Styles, Rhodes and Ambrose actually looked behind Punk at somebody. Maybe it was because Punk was the one shouting with his back turned against the door that he didn't notice Paige walking into the room. "Yeah. That's right," Paige said Punk while she held a barbed wire baseball bat in her hand. Punk stared down all four superstars standing in front of him, taking his time the most with Rhodes, the man who recruited Punk for this team that he was no longer a part of. Punk picked up his bags, turned around and walked out of the room, slamming the door with authority. Styles, Rhodes, Ambrose and Paige glanced back at each other, all four of them understanding that they did what they needed to and can't feel any remorse for Punk just a little under an hour before WarGames.
Back in the Target Center, Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves noted that tensions have been rising for weeks now between CM Punk and all members of Team AJ Styles - Cody Rhodes specifically - so it comes as no surprise that the WarGames unit would be welcoming of the idea of Paige taking his spot. "Paige has more reason to be in this match than CM Punk ever did. Punk's out of a main event match up, but there'll be more for him down the line. It's important for Paige to have his opportunity for revenge against Derrick Bateman and Bray Wyatt," Graves stated. "And revenge is all that these next two competitors have been after against one another for the last four years. A rivalry that dates back to the inception of NXT and has stood the test of time. The United States Championship is up for grabs when The Miz and Daniel Bryan write yet another chapter in their heated, personal story." Create to Inspire's "Regret" began playing alongside the video package that took the WWE Universe back to the very first episode of NXT in February 2010. "... And my NXT rookie is Daniel Bryan." Highlights of Bryan and Miz' battles up to this point were shown. Night of Champions 2010, Elimination Chamber 2012 and the Royal Rumble 2014 helped set the stage for tonight. After Miz pinned Bryan in the aforementioned Royal Rumble showdown that also involved Austin Aries, Bryan had to endure a Fatal Four Way Elimination match against Adam Cole, Adrian Neville and Baron Corbin to earn this opportunity at Battleground. The following week on RAW, Miz vowed to expose information that Bryan was purposely withholding from everyone. His friends, family and the entire WWE Universe. During a contract signing on SmackDown four days later, Miz revealed that Bryan has been closely monitored by WWE's medical staff due to his deteriorating health. More specifically, head and neck issues that come as a result of over a decade of abuse to his own body for the sake of professional wrestling. "It takes its toll on my body, my soul, my mind. I wish it never came to this. The way I feel is so unsettling." Bryan has been medically cleared to compete tonight, but just what condition will he be in coming out of this? Miz has vowed to end Bryan's career tonight, and no matter how badly the WWE Universe wants to deny the possibility of that, Miz has the chance to deliver on his promise. If Bryan's career does indeed end tonight, he'll blame himself for the rest of his life for allowing his body to reach the point where he doesn't have the choice as to whether or not he wants to walk away from the industry that he dedicated his life to. "I regret so many mistakes that I've made in my life. I can't seem to face another sleepless night. I'm twisting and turning and my bridges need burning."
"Quiet on the set! Can we please have quiet on the set?!" The boos rained down from the masses in the Target Center as the intro for the United States Champion led into his signature cry of, "Awesome!" The Miz and Maryse stepped out onto the stage, the so-called power couple of the WWE looking out into the crowd while Miz raised the United States Title, reminding everyone of what he has and intends on retaining here tonight. "I actually asked Miz earlier in the day about his mindset going into this match, and he mentioned to me that he requested to enter first. Usually, it's the challenger who makes his way down to the ring before the champion, but because Miz is such a class act, he insisted on Daniel Bryan having the chance to go out last for the final match of his career," said Corey Graves. "Minnesota is ready to run The Miz out of this state faster than Leslie Frazier, but for as much warranted criticism that The Miz receives, he's backed up all of his promises since the return of Maryse at Survivor Series. He became United States Champion. He beat Adrian Neville. He beat Austin Aries. He beat Daniel Bryan, and he's ready to do the latter yet again in the biggest encounter to date between these two bitter rivals. Corey, we noted earlier how Derrick Bateman, Bray Wyatt and Braun Strowman look to be the three biggest threats in WWE today. As preposterous as it may sound to some, The Miz deserves recognition in that field. And if The Miz truly does end up being responsible for the end of Daniel Byan's 16 year career, he skyrockets to the top of the WWE Universe's Most Wanted list," Mauro Ranallo said. Miz and Maryse stood in the center of the ring, 'The Awesome One' holding his wife to his side while showing off the United States Championship.
After Miz' entrance music silenced, the defending United States Champion removed his entrance gear while the fans in Minneapolis chanted Daniel Bryan's name loudly and repeatedly. Maryse covered her husband's ears, Miz doing what he could to fend off the WWE Universe's rally cries for the challenger. When Bryan's theme song sounded, the roof just about came off of the Target Center. Bryan stepped out through the curtain, standing on the stage for a bit and staring directly at Miz and Maryse. "Yes! Yes! Yes!" Bryan yelled out while on his way down to the squared circle, everyone in Minneapolis joining him in the chant. When Bryan stood on the top rope, he didn't continue the chant. Instead, he glared at Miz, who finally removed his shades to lock eyes with Bryan. "There's not a single part of Daniel Bryan that believes tonight is the end for him. He fully intends on withstanding whatever The Miz throws at him to capture the United States Title and finally shut the loudest mouth in WWE after four long years."
After the pre-match introductions were completed by Justin Roberts, the official handed the United States Championship over to the time keeper before asking both competitors if they were ready for the match to begin. Suddenly, the entrance music of The Bella Twins sounded. "What the..." Corey Graves uttered as Brie Bella made her way out into the Target Center, Miz and Maryse both panicking while a smile lit up Bryan's face. When Brie slid into the ring, she immediately took down Maryse! Brie fired away with strikes and slaps to Maryse, who soon rolled out of the ring and ran up the entrance ramp to safety. Brie chased after Maryse, Miz calling for his wife to get back to ringside. "Maryse has been taken out! Miz has nobody to rely on but himself!" Mauro Ranallo exclaimed when the bell finally rang. Miz turned around and was hit with the Busaiku Knee! "NO! DON'T!" Graves screamed over the deafening crowd. Bryan covered Miz, but only got a two count! Miz rolled out to ringside, trying to process everything that had just taken place.
Bryan allowed Miz no time to collect himself, exiting the ring and delivering an onslaught of kicks to Miz' chest while the United States Champion was backed against the barricade. Bryan grabbed Miz and rolled him back into the ring, trying for another Busaiku Knee. Miz was able to evade the knee strike this time before yet again leaving the ring. Bryan ran the ropes and attempted a Suicide Dive, successfully sending Miz into the barricade. Bryan rose to his feet before stepping onto the ring apron, waiting for Miz to get back up. Bryan leaped toward Miz with a knee strike in mind, but Miz moved out of harm's way. Bryan was able to land on his hands and knees before turning around and charging at Miz. 'The Awesome On' lifted Bryan over his head with a Back Body Drop, Bryan crashing hard onto the floor in a moment where the WWE Universe was reminded that they're witnessing a hero of theirs potentially on his last legs. Bryan held the back of his head and neck, Miz rolling him into the ring before the official could have a chance to check on his condition. Miz ran the ropes and kicked Bryan directly in the face, covering him for a two count. Miz picked Bryan's head up off of the canvas by gripping his hair, the United States Champion smiling and laughing in the face of his vulnerable challenger. "You thought you could use your wife to beat me?! Huh?! You really thought you had a shot-" Miz shouted before Bryan grabbed his arm and tried applying the Yes Lock. Miz was able to evade the hold and rise to his feet, going for a double foot stomp onto Bryan's arm. Bryan moved his arm out of the way in time, then rolling up Miz for another near fall. Miz got to his feet and tried his hand at striking Bryan, only for the challenger to block it. Bryan hit Miz with a shot to the forehead of his own, the WWE Universe members in Minneapolis chanting "Yes!" with every strike of his. Bryan caught Miz with a Roundhouse Kick, the dazed champion backing into a corner. Bryan ran into Miz with a corner Dropkick, deciding to head to the top rope afterwards instead of going for another pin attempt. "No, Bryan. Please. We know that adrenaline is rapidly coursing through your body right now, but this is going to do more harm than good!" Ranallo stated before Bryan soared through the air with a Diving Headbutt. Miz rolled out of the way in time, resulting in Bryan crashing face-first onto the canvas. Both men remained down, Miz crawling towards Bryan's motionless body get the cover on him. Bryan got his shoulder up at two, Miz rolling onto his back to take a moment to catch his breath. The United States Champion got back to his feet, stalking Bryan as he crawled towards a corner. Miz kicked Bryan's head away a few times, the official having to back him away. Miz complied, but then charged into Bryan with a knee strike to the side of his head! While the official reprimanded Miz for his actions, Bryan slid to the outside of the ring, holding his head and giving a clear sign to the world that he was in trouble. Miz rolled out to ringside, waiting for Bryan to get back up to his feet. When Bryan did so, Miz pushed him from behind and into the ring post! Bryan fell back down onto the floor, Miz re-entering the squared circle. Miz mocked Bryan's "Yes" taunt while the fans that packed the sold out Target Center booed him to the loudest of their abilities. The official had to begin his count, Miz urging him to count faster since he had no issue accepting a count-out victory. Bryan grabbed the ring skirt at the count of six, using anything that he could to get back to his feet. "Bryan... just stay down. You can't put yourself in any more danger," Graves said, uncharacteristically showing concern for a heroic talent. Miz delivered a Baseball Slide to Bryan, sending him back down onto the floor. Miz sat on the ring apron while the official continued yelling at him, Miz ignoring everybody in the arena at that point other than his weakened challenger. Miz stepped onto ground level and grabbed Bryan, attempting to throw him against the ring apron. Somehow, Bryan was able to turn the tables and sent Miz into the ring apron instead! Bryan slid into the ring, the official close to counting Miz out. 'The Awesome One' franticly re-entered the ring, Bryan getting him in a small package pinning predicament. Miz kicked out just a millisecond before three, the champion hurrying to target Bryan's head and neck again. When Miz tried kicking Bryan, the challenger simply grabbed his foot and shook his head in disapproval. Bryan planted Miz' foot back down onto the canvas before repeatedly slapping him across his face! Miz threw his hand out for a strike of his own, but Bryan grabbed both his arms and left him open for a heabdutt. Bryan was rocked after delivering his own headbutt and backed against the ropes. Miz charged towards Bryan, who lifted him over the top rope. Miz landed on the apron, grabbing Bryan's head and pressing the back of his neck against the top rope. Miz grabbed Bryan's feet from underneath the bottom rope, pulling him out to ringside. Miz attempted to plant Bryan onto the floor with a Skull Crushing Finale, but Bryan prevented a possible disaster by backing Miz into the steel ring post. Miz tried to get away and catch his breath, but Bryan ran toward him with a Dropkick that sent Miz crashing against the barricade. Bryan, who held his head and showed that he was still battling through agony, grabbed Miz and rolled him into the ring. Bryan ascended to the top rope, waiting for the defending United States Champion to get back onto his feet. Bryan leaped off with a Missile Dropkick, but Miz caught his legs. The back of Bryan's head smacked the canvas, Miz taking advantage by slingshotting Bryan face-first into the top turnbuckle. Miz quickly got a hold of the dazed Bryan and hit the Skull Crushing Finale, rolling him over for the pin attempt. Somehow, Bryan managed to kick out at two! Miz' eyes and mouth widened as he stared at Bryan in disbelief, the entire WWE Universe in the Target Center chanting "Yes!" ferociously. Miz shook his head back and forth before grabbing Bryan's hair, picking him up for a second Skull Crushing Finale. "This is it. There's no way Bryan's getting up from that," Graves said, Bryan immediately proving him wrong by kicking out yet again! Miz wasted no time wondering how Bryan wasn't staying down this time. He picked Bryan up, but was placed into a small package roll up! Miz kicked out just before three, rising to his feet and receiving a Busaiku Knee! "Bryan got him! Come on, Bryan! Cover him!" Ranallo screamed while the fans in Minneapolis rooted for the challenger to capitalize. By the time Bryan began stirring, he knew that he had allowed Miz enough time to recover. Bryan backed against a corner, performing the "Yes!" taunt along with everyone who was watching in the arena and around the world. Bryan ran toward Miz for a second Busaiku Knee, but while he was in motion, he collapsed. The official quickly checked on Bryan, but Miz deemed victory more important than his opponent's health. Miz delivered a third Skull Crushing Finale to Bryan before rolling him over for the pin and three count.
THE MIZ RETAINS THE UNITED STATES CHAMPIONSHIP!
"That son of a bitch," was the first comment from Mauro Ranallo after The Miz pinned Daniel Bryan, everyone in the Target Center either booing at the top of their lungs, or remaining silent due to concern for Bryan. Miz ordered the official to ignore Bryan for the time being and hand him the United States Championship, 'The Awesome One' raising it high while standing over the fallen Bryan. More officials arrived to aid Bryan, Miz demanding that the camera man in the ring focus on him and nothing else. "Did... did Miz just deliver on his word? Was this the final match of Bryan's career?" Ranallo asked, Graves stating that it was hard to deny that. "I had my in-ring career cut short due to concussions. The condition that I see Daniel Bryan in right now... this doesn't look good. It doesn't look good at all." Miz exited the ring while a stretcher was being rolled out to ringside. Miz pushed the stretcher over, and when the medics asked what he was doing, he simply showed off the United States Title. Miz made his way over to the announce table, standing on top of it while looking at the sea of WWE Universe members who continued to boo him. "Get out of here. Please, just go," Ranallo said into his headset while Miz shouted at the fans in retaliation. Officials and medics finally got Bryan onto the stretcher, quickly carting him up the entrance ramp. While they were doing so, Miz stared at Bryan's near-lifeless body and chanted "Yes!" over and over again. Miz raised the United States Championship one more time, carrying out his vow to retain the gold here at Battleground, and possibly his other vow to end the career of Daniel Bryan.
A promo was shown for WrestleMania XXX, featuring the third of multiple themes, "Happy Song" by Bring Me the Horizon. The biggest event in professional wrestling history is live on Sunday April 6th from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, only on Pay-Per-View and the WWE Network.
Returning to the live Pay-Per-View feed, WWE Champion AJ Styles was shown leading Paige, Dean Ambrose and Cody Rhodes toward the gorilla position, while Universal Champion Derrick Bateman did the same with Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens and Bobby Roode following him. The Undertaker and Bray Wyatt have yet to be seen tonight, but the two daunting entities are no doubt not too far behind and will be ready for the upcoming main event. In the arena, the WarGames structure began lowering for the second time tonight. In the opening contest, AJ Lee's team was successful against Team Alexa Bliss. Could another 'AJ' be on the verge of victory, or will 'The Devil Himself' continue riding his wave of momentum heading into his first WrestleMania headliner? "Square Hammer" by Ghost began playing alongside the video package that began with Bateman's victory in the Royal Rumble match, thus making him the first ever WWE Universal Champion. The following day, a WarGames match pitting WWE's top two champions against each other was made official. On one team, WWE Champion AJ Styles. The other, WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman. The units were quickly assembled as Styles recruited Cody Rhodes, Dean Ambrose and then-member Intercontinental Champion CM Punk. Bateman managed to get Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens and Bobby Roode on his side before the two captains completed their squads on a live edition of SmackDown just a few days later. After Bateman defeated Paige in the main event of RAW on January 27th, Bray Wyatt shocked the world by delivering a beating to Paige, the woman who he once believed was the reincarnated version of his deceased sister. That led to Bateman naming Wyatt the fifth member of his WarGames team. Later on in the evening, Styles overcame Rollins in a one-on-one WWE Championship match. Following that contest, Team Bateman took out Team Styles, holding strength in numbers until The Undertaker made his return after being buried alive by Wyatt last year at Extreme Rules. 'The Phenom' cleaned house and stood on the side of Team Styles, thus becoming their fifth and final member. "Living in the night. 'Neath devils torn asunder. You call on me to solve a crooked rhyme." Over the next few weeks leading up to Battleground, mind games commenced on the part of Paige in retaliation against Bateman and Wyatt. After Wyatt's compound was burned to the ground, it became clear that 'The Anti-Diva' was not too far behind. This past Monday on RAW, a fed up CM Punk exited the arena mid-show, leaving Team Styles at a disadvantage for Undertaker's contest against Bateman. The villainous unit looked to have the upper-hand in a post-match brawl until Paige made her return, no longer donning her Wyatt Family appearance. The real Paige was back, and she took the fight to the men who she believes have ruined her life. During the Kickoff Show just hours ago, Styles made a game-time decision with CM Punk absent. Paige was named the newest member of his team, thus changing the complexion of WarGames entirely. The final shot of the video package was Paige staring down Bateman, one of the two confrontation that the WWE Universe most anticipates in this main event. "Are you ready to swear right here right now, before the devil."
Entrant #1: Paige
After the completion of the match's video package, Paige's entrance theme commenced, leading to one of the loudest ovations of the evening. 'The Anti-Diva' stepped out onto the stage, holding her barbed wire baseball bat in her hand. She also carried with her the backpack that has since become a part of her identity ever since she used it at Extreme Rules last year to store a plethora of weapons. "Not since Survivor Series has Paige stepped into a match as herself and not one of Bray Wyatt's puppets. As unbelievable as it may sound, this is a Paige who is even more dangerous than she was previously. She's been scarred. She's been through hell and back, and now is her chance to extract revenge against Derrick Bateman, Bray Wyatt and anyone else who gets in her way," Mauro Ranallo stated. Paige walked into the structure, looking around at the weapons that were propped against the steel walls. Paige looked underneath the ring and brought out steel chair after steel chair, throwing all of them into the squared circle. She then entered the ring herself and placed her backpack in a corner, moving the barbed wire bat between her two hands while waiting for the arrival of her first adversary.
Entrant #2: Derrick Bateman
Keeping one of the promises that he made to his teammates earlier tonight, the WWE Universal Champion was the first member out for his own team. Derrick Bateman stood on the stage and stared down Paige from a distance, well aware that once he stepped into the ring, hell in the form of his worst enemy would be waiting for him. "Derrick Bateman is guaranteed to headline WrestleMania XXX in his first defense of the WWE Universal Championship... that is if he can make it out of WarGames alive," Corey Graves said while 'The Devil Himself' slowly walked toward what very well could have been his own demise. Bateman walked into the structure and walked over to the steel wall, picking up a lead pipe to even the odds against Paige and her barbed wire bat. Bateman stepped into the ring and stood across from Paige, the door behind him being locked at the main event officially began. Bateman swung that lead pipe, but he inadvertently gave Paige the opening to strike first with the barbed wire bat to his mid-section! Bateman fell to the canvas, Paige taking the barbed wire and carving Bateman's head open with it. She finally released the grip that the barbed wire had on him, the Universal Champion bleeding just seconds into the match. Paige waited for Bateman to get back to his feet, getting ready to swing the bat at his head this time. When Paige attempted to take Bateman's head off, he grabbed her wrist to prevent that impact, although some of the barbed wire did connect with his forearm. Bateman struck Paige once in the jaw, which was enough to rock her. Bateman took the lead pipe and leveled her over her back with it before he made eye contact with the barbed wire bat. Bateman picked it up, wiped away some of the blood in his eyes and swung it into the top of Paige's head! Bateman ripped the barbed wire bat away, pulling some of Paige's hair out in the process. 'The Anti-Diva' remained vulnerable on the canvas, Graves believing that she had bitten off more than she could chew by getting herself into this match. Bateman placed the bat on the canvas and hoisted Paige onto his shoulders, trying for a TKO onto the barbed wire. Paige was able to fight out of it, take possession of the lead pipe and swing it into Bateman's left knee. With Bateman stunned, Paige grabbed his head and sent him face-first into the barbed wire bat with a Running Bulldog. Paige looked at her right arm, noticing Bateman's blood smeared on it. She grinned at the sight of it before rising to her feet, touching the top of her head to see her own blood. Paige grabbed a chair a lifted it over her head, but before she could swing it, Bateman grabbed her by her waist and delivered a Northern Lights Suplex.
Entrant #3: Dean Ambrose
Assistance for Paige finally came as Dean Ambrose ran down to the WarGames structure, 'The Lunatic Fringe' charging through the door and immediately trading blows with Bateman. Ambrose quickly stained his taped hands with Bateman's blood, continuing to pummel the Universal Champion until he was pulled by his shirt's collar into the ring apron. Ambrose' clavicle made contact with the hardest part of the ring, crumbling to the floor and taking a bit of time to catch his breath. During that scuffle, Paige opened her backpack and shuffled through its contents. Bateman returned his focus to Paige and went after her, but as soon as he got a hold of 'The Anti-Diva,' she turned around and had pack of bamboo skewers in her hand. Paige placed the pointed ends of the skewers onto the top of Bateman's head, pressing down on them until they were all stuck in him! "Oh my God!" Ranallo shouted as Bateman slowly backed away from Paige, looking up at the skewers that emerged from his skull and caused even more of his blood to stream down his face. The fans in the Target Center reacted in shock, horror and even joy in some cases as Bateman's body trembled, the Universal Champion in too much pain and disbelief at what happened to him to retaliate. "That is single most disgusting thing I've ever seen in a WWE ring!" Ranallo added before Graves gave his input. "I'm gonna throw up. I'm seriously about to puke." The "holy crap" chants rained down from the audience, Bateman looking as if he was going to pass out at any moment. Bateman was then turned around by Ambrose, who deliver Dirty Deeds right onto the skewers that were still lodged in his head! Bateman couldn't even move to safety since his body was temporarily immobile due to shock over the fact that bamboo skewers were literally stuck in his head. Ambrose and Paige fist bumped one another as the countdown clock appeared for the next entrant to partake in WarGames.
Entrant #4: Kevin Owens
Aside from Bray Wyatt, Derrick Bateman could not have asked for a better teammate to join WarGames after Paige and Dean Ambrose got the upper hand in malevolent fashion. Kevin Owens walked down the entrance ramp, Mauro Ranallo reminding the viewers at home that Bateman recruited Owens for this match after 'The Prizefighter' took out Randy Orton with a Powerbomb onto the ring apron. Owens stepped through the door, and instead of heading straight into the ring, he knelt down at ringside and literally pulled the bamboo skewers out of Bateman's head. Owens assisted the Universal Champion up to his feet, gently slapping the side of his face and getting blood on his hand in the process. Owens wiped the blood on his shorts while trying to give a pep talk to the half-dead Bateman. "You and me! We got this! Not because I want to help, but because I want that Universal Title match," Owens said to Bateman before Paige and Ambrose leaped out of the ring with Suicide Dives in stereo! Ambrose struck away with left and right hands shots to Owens while Paige repeatedly kneed Bateman in the face as he was perched against the steel wall. Ambrose tried running Owens' face into the ring post, but Owens turned the tables and 'The Lunatic Fringe.' With Ambrose down, Owens ran toward Paige and pushed her off of Bateman. Owens grabbed Paige and tossed her into a ladder that was positioned against the WarGames structure. Owens dropped the ladder onto Paige before turning his attention back to Ambrose. Bateman was finally able to show some signs of life, looking underneath the ring to retrieve a trash can. The Universal Champion placed the can down onto the floor before taking Paige up to ring apron. Bateman hoisted her onto his shoulders, but 'The Anti-Diva' once again was able to free herself. Paige hit Bateman with a few elbow strikes to his blood-soaked face before connecting with a Bicycle Knee! Bateman held onto the top rope with one hand in a scene very reminiscent of the Royal Rumble match's conclusion. Paige charged toward Bateman, who caught her with an Arm Drag off the apron and onto the trash can! Bateman looked down at Paige for one second, before falling through the ropes, lying flat in the ring for just a bit to recoup.
Entrant #5: Cody Rhodes
Halfway through the entries and the 2013 Superstar of the Year was the next superstar out for Team AJ Styles. Cody Rhodes made his way out to a thunderous ovation, rushing into the ring and avoiding a Clothesline from Bateman. Rhodes springboarded off of the second rope and delivered a Disaster Kick to the Universal Champion! "A measure of revenge for Rhodes after Bateman eliminated him from the Royal Rumble," Corey Graves said before Rhodes took a steel chair and leveled Bateman across the back with it! Rhodes continued to pulverize Bateman with the chair, the WWE Universe shouting "Yes!" with every strike. Owens slid into the ring and interrupted Rhodes' succession of chair shots, throwing him against the ropes for a Pop Up Powerbomb. Rhodes, however, held onto the ropes, Owens charging into him and eating a boot to the face. Ambrose ascended to the top rope, diving onto Owens with an Elbow Drop. Rhodes and Ambrose each grabbed two of the steel chairs that Paige previously introduced, positioning them to create a table-like contraption. Rhodes and Ambrose then got a hold of Owens, who prevented their attempt at a double team vertical Suplex. Owens ran the ropes, but Rhodes and Ambrose stopped him with simultaneous kicks to the mid-section. The two Team Styles members returned to their original plan, Suplexing Owens onto both of the set up chairs! Bateman ran behind Ambrose and shoved his sternum into the top turnbuckle, 'The Devil Himself' and 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling' continuing to do battle until the countdown clock appeared, the next participant set to join WarGames.
Entrant #6: Bobby Roode
"GLORIOUS!" sang the WWE Universe in synch with Bobby Roode's entrance theme as he made his way out to the stage, removing his entrance robe before entering the WarGames structure. Prior to entering the squared circle, Roode delivered a kick to the ribs of Paige, ensuring that she stay down and not become a factor in the match again. Roode slid into the ring and locked his arms around Rhodes' waist, giving Bateman the opening he needed to connect with a boot to the side of the latter's face. Ambrose took Roode down with a Thesz Press, Bateman intervening by taking Paige's barbed wire baseball bat and striking him in the back with it. Roode took Ambrose and hit a Glorious DDT onto a chair, Owens asking for Ambrose at ringside. Bateman and Roode tossed Ambrose out of the ring together, Owens stomping away on him before taking a table that was perched against the WarGames structure. Owens set the table up and positioned Ambrose on it, Rhodes trying to make the save before being beaten down by Bateman and Roode. Owens climbed to the top turnbuckle, the fans in the Target Center rising to their feet to brace for the impact that was upon WarGames. Owens then soared through the air with a Senton Bomb to Ambrose through the table! Chants of "Holy crap!" emerged for the third time thus far, the first of the three moments not involving Paige or Bateman. Owens stood up and latched both of his hands onto the steel wall of the surrounding structure, letting out a massive shout as he, Bateman and Roode had the upper hand over Ambrose, Rhodes and Paige up to that point.
Entrant #7: AJ Styles
Desperate times call for desperate measures as proven by the fact that entering WarGames next was the captain of one of the fighting units. The WWE Champion. 'The Phenomenal One' AJ Styles. The opening notes of Styles' entrance theme resulted in a massive ovation from the Target Center, Styles stepping out onto the stage and pulling down his hood. Bateman, Owens and Roode were all on standby in the ring, waiting to strike the second that the WWE Champion entered the structure. Styles removed his entrance vest and the WWE Title, setting both down on the stage before running into the ring. Styles started off with a strike to Bateman before delivering a few to Owens and Roode. Styles initially held his own before Bateman kicked him in the side of his leg, Owens and Roode joining him in a three-on-one assault. Rhodes slid into the ring with his equalizer in the form of a kendo stick. Rhodes leveled all three of his adversaries with the stick repeatedly, handing it over to Styles and allowing him the opportunity to strike Bateman with it. Styles swung the kendo stick across Bateman's already-bloodied face, further inflicting damage to the Universal Champion. Styles ran toward the ropes and connected with a baseball slide to Roode, Rhodes making sure Owens was occupied in the ring to allow Paige and Ambrose enough time to recover and once again be effective pieces of Team Styles. "AJ Styles and his team hold the advantage right now, but in just a few seconds, someone from Derrick Bateman's team is going to change everything," Corey Graves said when the countdown clock appeared once again.
Entrant #8: Seth Rollins
"He lost at the Royal Rumble. He lost his one-on-one championship match just a few days later on SmackDown. Seth Rollins isn't going to let failure creep up on him again." 'The Architect of the Future' made his way down to the ring, ready to be the difference maker for Team Derrick Bateman and lead them to victory, especially after Bateman promised his teammates Universal Championship opportunities if they are indeed successful. The second that Rollins stepped through the door, Ambrose lunged himself at him! Ambrose and Rollins brawled at ringside, 'The Lunatic Fringe' unleashing a flurry of offensive attacks before throwing him into the steel wall. Ambrose refused to ease up, continuing to assault Rollins while Owens and Rhodes saw their battle spill to the outside. In the ring, Styles placed Roode in position for the Styles Clash, only to have it countered into a Death Valley Driver. Figuring that he may as well add on to Styles' punishment until he could go for a pinfall, Roode took a steel chair and placed it in between the top and middle turnbuckles in a corner. Roode brought Styles to his feet, trying to send him into the chair. Styles was able to stop himself in his tracks, Roode running toward him. Styles leaped over Roode, causing 'The Glorious One' to crash into the chair he had set up himself. Bateman slid into the ring and grabbed Styles by his head, planting him with the One Percenter in the center of the ring. Bateman rose to his feet as the countdown clock appeared, the Universal Champion bracing himself as there was only one superstar left to enter for the opposing team. Ranallo said it best on commentary as the clock winded down.
"Derrick Bateman... rest in peace."
Entrant #9: The Undertaker
The lights in the Target Center shut as the ominous gong sounded, meaning only one thing. A man of mythical status would be the next to enter WarGames, and he literally needed no introduction. When the lights came back on, The Undertaker was already in the ring! Bateman turned around and was immediately met with strikes from 'The Phenom' to his blood-covered forehead! Undertaker got Bateman in a corner, continuing to deliver shot after shot before hoisting him onto his shoulder for Snake Eyes. Bateman's face bounced off of the top turnbuckle, Undertaker running the ropes and hitting a Big Boot. Roode slid into the ring, trying his luck against Undertaker. 'The Glorious One' had his strike blocked, Undertaker following up by grabbing him by his throat. Owens made the save in time and went after Undertaker, only to be caught for a Sidewalk Slam when he attempted a Clothesline. After Undertaker took Roode down with a heavy strike, he exited the ring to go after Rollins. After Undertaker's feet touched the floor, Rollins threw Ambrose into Undertaker. 'The Phenom' was thrown off for a second, which allowed Rollins to Superkick him. Ambrose rammed Rollins into the ring apron before sliding him into the squared circle, Ambrose crawling in afterward. Rollins took advantage of the very small opening that he had and delivered a Curb Stomp to Ambrose, only to soon realize that he wasn't in the clear as he had The Undertaker stalking him. Undertaker caught his foot during a second attempt at a Superkick, spinning Rollins around before gripping his throat. Undertaker dropped Rollins with a massive Chokeslam before being chop blocked by Bateman. The Universal Champion took out Undertaker with a DDT before returning to the attack on Styles.
Entrant #10: Bray Wyatt
"Minneapolis... we're here!" Bray Wyatt said on the titantron before blowing out his lantern. The fireflies lit up the Target Center as Wyatt stepped through the curtain, making out whatever he could of the WarGames structure that loomed in darkness from where he was standing. "This is it. All 10 superstars have entered. Pinfalls and submissions are now legal, and one team will have their arms raised in victory," Ranallo said while Wyatt slowly made his way down to the structure. He stood a few feet away from the door before his lantern was put out. When the lights in the Target Center came back on, the first thing that anyone saw was Paige jumping off of the top of the WarGames structure with a Crossbody to Wyatt! Paige repeatedly struck Wyatt with right hand shots, beating him to the point where 'The Eater of Worlds' actually looked like he was retreating. Paige quickly ran back into the structure, but only to grab a steel chair. She ran after Wyatt, leveling him across the back and shoulder with the chair. Paige continued to strike Wyatt with the foreign object until both were on the stage. Paige put the chair down and ran toward Wyatt with a Bicycle Knee, connecting with it to his jaw. The dazed Wyatt backed against the podium where the announce table was positioned, Ranallo and Graves quickly running for safety. Paige took one of the monitors and struck Wyatt in the head with it. Wyatt, possibly not knowing where he was anymore at that point, moved onto the surface of the announce table, Paige joining him thereafter. 'The Anti-Diva' wrapped her arms around Wyatt's head and neck, attempting to choke him out. Wyatt was able to stand up and fought for dear life to pry Paige off of him. Wyatt grabbed Paige by her hair, lifting her over his head and throwing her several feet through the air onto a set of tables and stage equipment! Paige's body crashed through only one of the tables, her head colliding with the other. Wyatt got off the announce table and stood on the podium, looking down at Paige and observing the chaotic scene that came as a result of his own doing. Paige was out yet again, several officials having to check on her. Wyatt left the podium and stood on the stage, looking at the WarGames structure where anarchy continued to ensue. Bateman, who had just struck Undertaker in the side with a lead pipe, turned around and noticed 'The Eater of Worlds.' "What are you doing?! Get your ass in here!!" Bateman screamed at Wyatt. A few seconds later, Wyatt turned his back on the team and headed through the curtain, his tenure in the WarGames ending since he believed that he accomplished the only thing that he needed to in this contest, which was to eliminate Paige.
What was supposed to be a 5-on-5 match up became 4-on-4 with Paige and Wyatt no longer acting as factors. The irate Bateman turned his attention back to the action, Styles taking him down to the canvas. While they battled, Rollins and Ambrose continued to do the same while Owens introduced another table, this time making Rhodes his target. 'The Prizefighter' positioned the table at ringside, taking Rhodes and attempting to Powerbomb him through it. Rhodes prevented becoming another victim of Owens', lifting him up with a Back Body Drop through the table! Rhodes slid into the ring and evaded a Clothesline from Roode, planting him with Cross Rhodes. 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling' looked to have all of the momentum in the world on his side until Rollins leaped off the top rope with a knee strike to the back of his head. Rhodes crumbled to the mat, Rollins standing tall momentarily before Ambrose rolled him up for what was only a two count. Both men rose to their feet simultaneously, Ambrose kicking Rollins in the mid-section and connecting with Dirty Deed! Ambrose covered Rollins, but right before the official could make the three count, Triple H ran down to ringside and pulled him out. "This is exactly how Triple H screwed over Dean Ambrose at TLC!" Ranallo said. Hunter stepped onto the ring apron, asking Ambrose, "You want to do this now?" An ironic turn of events unfolded as the last time Ambrose and Hunter were in WarGames together, The Uprising defeated The Committee and took 'The Game' out of power at SummerSlam. Hunter removed his suit jacket and tie, soon showing that he only intended on distracting Ambrose long enough for Rollins to hit him with a low blow. Rollins ran the ropes and planted Ambrose face-first into the mat with a Curb Stomp, he and Hunter glancing at each other with villainous grins on both of their faces. Rollins rolled Ambrose's carcass over and got the cover, only for 'The Lunatic Fringe' to get a shoulder up! The WWE Universe members in Minneapolis erupted, Hunter's immediate response being to look underneath the ring and introduce a sledgehammer into the mix. Hunter stepped into the squared circle and handed the hammer over to Rollins, Ranallo referring to the sight as a, "Sickening passing of the torch." Rollins waited for Ambrose to get to his feet, soon noticing Styles springboarding off of the top rope. Rollins sidestepped Styles, which inadvertently resulted in 'The Phenomenal One' striking Hunter! 'The Game' rolled out of the ring as Rollins charged toward Styles with the sledgehammer, only to be on the receiving end of a Pele Kick!
On the side of the stage, officials and medics continued to tend to Paige, who began moving on her own after falling off of a podium through a table courtesy of Wyatt. 'The Anti-Diva' refused any medical attention, asking the officials where Wyatt went. "Paige, just calm down. We need to get you to the trainer's room," one of them said, only to be slapped by her! "Where the is Bray Wyatt?!?" she yelled out, the officials panicking and telling her that Wyatt left. Paige got to her feet and limped back onto the stage, heading through the curtain and making chase for 'The Eater of Worlds' despite undoubtedly being injured.
With Triple H and Rollins taken care of, Styles turned his attention to the only member of the opposing team who showed any signs of life. Ironically, it was the member who had taken the worst beating in the match. Bateman got to his feet in a corner, Styles taking the sledgehammer and sizing up the Universal Champion with it. When Bateman turned around, Styles charged toward him. Bateman was able to kick Styles' arm, knocking the sledgehammer out of it. Bateman then went to retrieve the weapon, only for The Undertaker to pull it out of the ring from the outside. Bateman, realizing that a single step forward meant dealing with 'The Phenom' again, turned around and ate a Discuss Clothesline from Styles! Undertaker stepped into the ring while Styles stepped out onto the ring apron, ready to deliver the finishing blow to the Universal Champion. Styles springboarded into the air for the Phenomenal Forearm, but on his way down, The Undertaker grabbed him by his throat! "No! What are you doing?!" Ranallo shouted into his headset while the fans in Target Center reacted with the same amount of shock.
Undertaker lifted Styles off of his feet and planted him with a Chokeslam!
Not a single soul in the arena could believe what they had just witnessed. The Undertaker stared down at Styles' motionless body with a remorseless expression. Uncharacteristically, the WWE Universe began booing The Undertaker as he exited the WarGames structure and headed up the entrance ramp. "Unde... Undertaker... he just took out the WWE Champion," Corey Graves said in a very faint and weak tone. Undertaker turned his back on Team Styles. With the fact of the matter still having yet to settle in, the match continued as Bateman crawled towards Styles, draping one arm across his chest. The official had no choice but to make the three count that only came as a result of one of the most shocking betrayals in WWE history.
TEAM DERRICK BATEMAN DEFEATS TEAM AJ STYLES!
"This... this isn't real. This can't be happening. The Undertaker could not have just done that," Mauro Ranallo said, Corey Graves having to inform him that what transpired before their own eyes wasn't fiction. "Undertaker Chokeslammed AJ Styles. He just turned his back on not only this WarGames unit, but the entire WWE Universe for that matter. Undertaker just handed the victory on a silver platter to the most despised man in all of professional wrestling." Derrick Bateman, who physically appeared to be the furthest thing possible from a winner, rose to his feet and had his arm raised triumphantly, the rest of his teammates unable to stand tall with him. The WarGames structure raised from ground level as Bateman was handed back the Universal Title, Ranallo noting that this was the very first loss in WWE for AJ Styles. "Since his debut last June, Styles was never pinned or made to submit until The Undertaker betrayed him for God knows why." Bateman wiped away blood that was getting into his eyes and raised the Universal Championship high in the air before turning to the WrestleMania XXX sign. No matter how the masses may feel about Bateman, he's kept his word on everything thus far in 2014. He won the Royal Rumble match. He led his team to victory in WarGames. The next stop for 'The Devil Himself' is his first defense of the Universal Title in the main event of the biggest WrestleMania of all-time. Yet the only thing on anybody's mind at that point wasn't the rise of Bateman from laughing stock to WrestleMania headliner. It was the fact that The Undertaker betrayed AJ Styles and has left the WWE Universe with an unanswered question: Why?
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Post by Planktung on Jul 20, 2017 7:09:40 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jul 21, 2017 10:48:06 GMT -5
- Big Show retiring from in-ring competition now that Big Show is retiring I would definitely say that Show is first ballot WWE Hall of Famer...Show has done virtually everything in this business multiple time WWE and World Champion former ECW Champion former WWE United States Champion former WWE Intercontinental Champion former WWE Tag Team Champion...yeah Big Show his career transcended not just WCW but WWE as well and for that he needs to go into the WWE Hall of Fame...but Big Show will he go in this year's class for the WWE Hall of Fame? I think it is too early this year but next year most definitely is Big Show's year to go in and Big Show I could even see him headlining next year's class with him going in as the greatest Giant to ever go in but who will induct Show?
- Nigel McGuiness making his WWE debut on commentary...pulling out all the stops and he is going to be a commentator on the Smackdown Live side of things then I wonder who his broadcast partners will be on the Smackdown Live side? Or who will join the RAW announce team during the draft?
- Hideo Itami this is a big night for him because not only is he a Paul Heyman Guy but all the pressure is riding on Itami tonight because this is perhaps the biggest match in his career tonight here at Battleground because he is facing John Cena...the undisputed face of the company and if Itami loses tonight well then his future as a Heyman Guy guy is in question especially if he loses to Cena but if he wins tonight then this match more or less puts him on the map...but for Cena tonight is essentially a must-win for Big Match John because if he wins then his Road to WrestleMania is set especially as far as the WWE Universal Championship goes but if Cena loses then he gets taken out of the WWE Universal Championship conversation
- Paige decides to take mercy on Allie by deciding not to fight her but lets Allie live another day...you can bet that that won't make Stephanie very happy...but the question remains what will Stephanie do about it though?
- AJ Styles team captain for Team Styles tonight in WarGames the WWE Champion AJ decides that for his team he will replace CM Punk The Best in the World with Paige of all people...I mean Styles replacing Punk with Paige I wonder how the rest of AJ's team will feel about this decision? I mean there is the rest of the team to consider like Ambrose, Rhodes and The Undertaker...I mean I wonder if they will have a problem with Paige taking Punk's spot? Maybe Punk is just late and if he is then I wonder what Punk will think about his teammates losing faith in him especially to the point that they would replace him? For that I can see Punk showing up if only to cost Team Styles the victory out of spite
- Team AJ Lee beating Team Alexa Bliss in WarGames...I mean this match definitely has to be considered up there as being one of the great WarGames matches but also the fact that the women the divas continue to make history I mean not only was this match a first of firsts in the sense that the women entered the WarGames structure for the first time but also because of the fact that this match definitely had a lot of sick and violent spots especially the WWE Women's Champion Alexa Bliss going through thumbtacks...now that was definitely sickening to say the least or even Nicole Matthews delivering a Razor's Edge to Emma through a table for example...I mean brutal to its core but damn exciting to see I mean with Sofia Cortez getting the decisive pin hitting a Frog Splash on the WWE Women's Champion Alexa Bliss to get the win for her team...I mean with Sofia getting the pin pinning the champion I mean after that...she definitely has to be considered for a WWE Women's Championship match but then again AJ Lee she has her rematch clause already invoked for WrestleMania XXX and with Alexa being the champion I wouldn't be surprised if it ends up being a Triple Threat Match for the WWE Women's Championship at Mania
- Bateman can say that he isn't afraid of Paige but the WWE Universal Champion his actions as of late say otherwise I mean he is running scared and his teammates Rollins, Owens and Roode know that but Bateman he promises that if his teammates win this match for him that he will give them title shots for his WWE Universal Championship...I doubt that because even if they do win tonight and beat Team Styles how do we even know that Bateman will live up to his end of the bargain? Anyone who knows Bateman knows that he is not a man of his word so how can his teammates even trust him?
- New Day become the new WWE Tag Team Champions beating The Alpha Wolves in the Best of 7 Series...this series definitely was going to come down to the wire and it did I mean New Day they had a 3-1 lead in this series and Eddie Edwards & Davey Richards managed to come back into this series after being down 3-1 winning 2 straight matches to tie it up 3-3 and it all came down to a decisive 7th match...think about it if The New Day had lost it would be similar to the Oklahoma City Thunder having a 3-1 lead and then losing the series to the Golden State Warriors yeah I know I am using an NBA example here but still...I mean The New Day managed to get the job done here and they basically proved that they didn't need outside help to get the job done...Kofi Kingston wasn't even a factor in this match...Big E and Xavier Woods managed to get the job done all on their own but now that they are the champions they are going to have to defend those titles at WrestleMania 30 but it also begs the question of who they will defend their titles against on The Grandest Stage of Them All? I mean The Alpha Wolves do have a rematch clause for those titles seeing as how they are now the former champions but then again there are other tag teams in the division too who will want a shot so
- But then again The New Day in the WWE Draft they could be split up...I mean in the draft tag teams can be split up or they could be drafted together so let's see what happens
- I mean in the WWE draft managers and valets could also be drafted too to shows with whoever they manage or they could be split up from them as well...that just adds to the unpredictability of this Brand Extension draft
- Seeing The Big Dog...Roman Reigns is back...I thought Roman was supposed to be out for months and that he was scheduled to come back like around SummerSlam time but seeing Reigns back ahead of schedule just in time for WrestleMania 30 and seeing Reigns interact with RAW GM Dario Cueto I mean it is obvious that Reigns intimidated Dario there and he should I mean Reigns is not only one of the most dangerous superstars on the roster right now but he is one of the best and from that interaction I mean it is obvious that Reigns is still a heel which is what Reigns should be and Reigns wants the WWE Championship specifically AJ Styles but then again will Dario give Roman his title shot?
- Strowman beating Joe, Corbin and Rusev in Monster's Ball...I mean after this I think it is safe to say that this match has more or less put Braun Strowman on the map as far as being the new Resident Giant of the WWE I mean he more or less proved his dominance here tonight beating 3 monsters in Samoa Joe, Baron Corbin and Rusev I mean the first time we have ever seen a Monster's Ball Match in the WWE and it definitely lived up to its hype a lot of sickening spots but also this match definitely has to be up there as far as show stealers for tonight but I mean if Strowman could do this...I mean I wonder where The Monster Among Men goes from here especially with WrestleMania around the corner?
- AJ Lee interacting with Iconic...the NXT Women's Champion Emma, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce backstage I mean after that interaction I think it is safe to say that AJ isn't done with the 3 of them not by a long shot especially considering they are the ones who cost her the WWE Women's Championship and then AJ getting some retribution with her team beating them in WarGames I can see her getting more retribution at some point
- Heyman coming out to a massive ovation a thunderous ovation that surprises me but then again it makes sense given that we are in Minnesota for Battleground and who is from Minnesota? Only Heyman's client The Beast Incarnate The Conqueror Brock Lesnar...I would have expected Lesnar to show up to Battleground seeing as how it was in his hometown of Minnesota and Lesnar being a Minnesota native I was expecting Brock to come out to a hero's welcome but the very mention of Brock and these people are going nuts...but Heyman's other client Hideo Itami coming out and getting a massive ovation well he is a Heyman Guy so of course he is going to get cheered and then seeing Heyman talk about Lesnar's Road to WrestleMania...I mean Lesnar of course should and probably will get a WWE Universal Championship match for WrestleMania and if that happens then if Cena wins tonight then I can see Cena getting added into the match to make it a Triple Threat Match for the WWE Universal Championship at Mania
- Cena beating Itami...I mean this match definitely has to be considered Match of the Night I mean this match was back and forth all the way throughout I mean so many counters so many reversals but also the fact that Itami took Cena to the limit and then some and Cena by the skin of his teeth beating Itami he barely beat him but they don't call him Big Match John for nothing I mean whenever there is a big match Cena rises to the occasion but Itami he may have lost this match but he more or less was put on the map here
- I am calling it...WrestleMania 30...Triple Threat Match for the WWE Universal Championship Derrick Bateman defending his title against Cena and against Lesnar
- I told you Punk wouldn't be happy with his teammates replacing him and Punk walking out on his former team I wouldn't be surprised if this results in a CM Punk heel turn...I mean the seeds have already more or less been planted
- The Miz retaining his WWE United States Championship against Daniel Bryan in a bittersweet fashion I mean Miz may have retained the title but Bryan's health I mean that was the more important thing in this match...I mean his history of concussions came back to bite him in this match I mean he collapsed and needed medical attention after the match I mean no one deserves to go out like that especially in the final match of their career but Miz didn't even care...all he cared about was winning I mean Miz is a competitor but still I mean it took like how many Skull Crushing Finales for him to beat Bryan? I mean he may have ended Bryan's career here but after that I mean Miz may have solidified himself as not only WWE United States Champion but solidifying himself as a top heel in this business but then again who will challenge Miz for that title come WrestleMania 30?
- And in the main event Team Bateman gets the win...more importantly because of the fact that The Undertaker of all people turned on Team Styles costing AJ Styles the WWE Champion the victory but the better question is why? Why Undertaker Why? I mean I will say this it was a shocking betrayal especially one that I would have never have seen in a million years much less called but at the same time will an Undertaker heel turn at this stage of his career even work? I mean Undertaker is too popular as a babyface too popular as a legend to even be booed so I don't understand why you would pull off this heel turn because it is bound to backfire especially because Undertaker at this point in his career is too revered too beloved as a superstar to even be booed...I just can't see it but at the same time I guess I can see why you did it...building up towards a Styles/Undertaker Dream Match for WrestleMania 30...Streak vs Title for the WWE Championship...21-0 undefeated streak of The Undertaker going up against The Phenomenal One AJ Styles the WWE Champion Battle of the Phenoms...it makes sense I guess
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Post by Planktung on Jul 21, 2017 19:10:41 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jul 21, 2017 20:35:32 GMT -5
- Paige vs Derrick Bateman in No Holds Barred...Paige facing the WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman I can see Bray Wyatt showing up
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Post by Planktung on Jul 22, 2017 3:15:58 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jul 22, 2017 9:57:24 GMT -5
As for who I think the attacker is...who would want to attack Shane? Let's see there is:
- Triple H...his brother-in-law everyone knows there is no love lost between Shane and Triple H but then again Triple H in your diary is no longer the COO of WWE he lost his position and perhaps he blames Shane for losing control to Bateman which then allowed Dario Cueto to take control
- CM Punk...he is a suspect I mean Punk he has been angry as of late and given that he was replaced last night by his teammates in WarGames Punk could have been so angry that he could have attacked Shane for no reason at all other than letting off steam and Punk has been losing steam as a babyface...CM Punk is The Best in the World for Christ sake
- Roman Reigns...he could have done it because well it's Roman and he just came back after being gone for months and Roman being a top heel decided he needs to make a statement
- Bobby Roode he is another suspect
- The Undertaker I mean given that he turned on AJ Styles the WWE Champion out of nowhere in WarGames...Taker he could have done it simply because he is the Dead Man but also he is The Lord of Darkness and The Undertaker is reverting to his Ministry self so it would make sense
- Kevin Owens he could have been the one to attack Shane...I mean given that he put Orton on the shelf I wouldn't put it past him
- The Miz the WWE United States Champion he could have been the one to attack Shane
Those are my list of suspects it is like a Who Done It murder mystery this is like NYPD WWE...and seeing that this is RAW I am sure all the superstars and divas will be gathered around the ring and Dario Cueto & Stephanie gather everyone around the ring trying to find out just who did it
Similar to the who ran down Austin storyline
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underjohngrohs
Main Eventer
"Do I Have Everybody's Attention Now?"
Joined on: May 19, 2012 17:48:25 GMT -5
Posts: 2,959
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Post by underjohngrohs on Jul 22, 2017 14:54:45 GMT -5
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Post by Planktung on Jul 28, 2017 7:01:33 GMT -5
February 24th, 2014 - After the signature WWE intro, a video package was shown to recap the events of last night's Battleground Pay-Per-View event. In the first ever women's WarGames match, AJ Lee's team came out victorious after Alexa Bliss got a taste of her own medicine by becoming a victim of the dreaded thumbtacks, followed by a Frog Splash from Sofia Cortez. The New Day prevented The Alpha Wolves from overcoming a 3-1 deficit in the Best of Seven Series by closing out Match 7 to become the new WWE Tag Team Champions. Braun Strowman showed why he has been coined 'The Monster Among Men' by winning Monster's Ball against Rusev, Baron Corbin and Samoa Joe. In a dream match, John Cena got the better of Hideo Itami on his way to WrestleMania, where he believes he has earned a WWE Universal Championship opportunity. Daniel Bryan potentially wrestled the final match of his career in a losing effort to The Miz for the United States Championship. Lastly, a chaotic WarGames main event that saw the inclusion of steel chairs, tables, stage equipment and even bamboo skewers. Ultimately, a shocking betrayal on the part of The Undertaker toward WWE Champion AJ Styles allowed Bateman to pick up the scraps and defeat Styles' team. The conclusion of the video package turned to black and white and showed many of the shocked WWE Universe members in the Target Center after Undertaker Chokeslammed Styles, leaving the world of professional wrestling speechless.
Cutting to the Resch Center in Green Bay, the ominous gong of The Undertaker sounded to a mixed response from the fans in attendance. "Welcome everyone to Monday Night RAW, and in an atmosphere that I could have never even envisioned, the WWE Universe is justifiably outraged at the actions of a certain 'Phenom,'" said Mauro Ranallo in the first commentary line of the evening. After the lights shut, Undertaker's entrance music hit as the superstar who turned his back on not only AJ Styles, but Cody Rhodes, Dean Ambrose, Paige and the entire world as well made his way out to the stage. Undertaker looked down at the floor, his hat shielding any sort of facial expression of his for those few moments. Undertaker made the long, enduring walk to the ring, this time with a worldwide audience demanding answers watching him. "I consider myself a pretty knowledgable person when it comes to figuring out what is going on in the minds of our superstars... but I don't have a single clue what The Undertaker is thinking right now. AJ Styles was in prime position to take out Derrick Bateman, and the only reason he didn't was because The Undertaker Chokeslammed him to hell inside WarGames," said Corey Graves while Undertaker was stepping into the ring. 'The Phenom' took a microphone as he looked out at the fans who were not used to showing displeasure toward him. Undertaker brought the microphone closer to his face, finally breaking his near-24 hour silence. "For over two decades now, I have watched as man after man tries to leave their mark on the kingdom that I have shaped. Many try and many fail. Names are forgotten. Memories fade away. Those who said they would take this yard from me all fell at my feet. But in that crowd of spirits, some have stood the test of time. Individuals like Triple H. The Rock. Stone Cold Steve Austin. John Cena. Randy Orton. Batista. CM Punk. All of them have been able to carve their accolades into stone... but they've all felt the wrath of 'The Phenom' at one point or another. Nobody walks that stairway to heaven without meeting the gatekeeper and seeing if they really have what it takes. In the time that has passed since my resurrection, it became apparent to me that there's one man in particular who believes that he is above the law of the land. I can count on two hands the number of months he's been in my yard, and last night at Battleground, I looked into his eyes and I saw somebody who is ready for his date with 'The Deadman' to see if he truly has what it takes to be forever immortalized... or be cast away into the sea of the abyss. AJ Styles... I don't think you understand that before you can call yourself the best, I need to find out for myself what kind of punishment you can withstand. Styles... there is no chance at victory against me. You either survive and make it to the other end of the gates to tell your story... or you will rest... in..."
Right before Undertaker could finish his signature phrase, the entrance music of AJ Styles sounded. The Resch Center came unglued for the WWE Champion as Styles made his way out into the arena, staring down The Undertaker during his walk toward the squared circle. Styles stepped through the ropes and confronted Undertaker, asking if that's really what all of this was about. "You wanted to see if I can hang in 'your yard'? You're the freaking Undertaker! All you had to do to get a match with me was ask! Instead, the record books will forever show that Derrick Bateman beat me! And it's all because of you!" Undertaker interrupted Styles, telling him that he shouldn't be concerned with WarGames because that's in the past and, "The past should stay dead. What you have awaiting you in your future is a shot at immortality against the most destructive and remorseless entity that this ring has ever seen. That vengeance that is coursing through your soul at this very moment could have only been accomplished through the actions that I committed against you last night. When we do battle, I want you at your best. I want you to bring everything that you have stored in your arsenal because I will do the same. All you need to do now, Styles, is name a date and place you want to wage war with 'The Phenom' himself."
The ball was in Styles' court now. All he needed to do was give The Undertaker a date and place to meet him one-on-one... and the WWE Champion pointed at the WrestleMania XXX sign.
"Oh... my... God," Ranallo said over the thunderous WWE Universe members in Green Bay. Undertaker looked over his shoulder at the WrestleMania sign, staring at it intensively while the fans chanted either "Holy shit!" or "Yes!" repeatedly. "... Styles... you understand what you're doing, don't you? I asked you to name a date and place to go to war against me. I didn't ask you to name a date and place for your soul to cease to exist for eternity! You know the fate of everyone who has ever stepped foot in my yard at WrestleMania, right? 21 times men have been daring enough to try... and 21 times they have all fallen like ashes. Even if you bring your absolute best to the dance with the dead, I am God at WrestleMania! Besting me on the grandest stage of them all is something that is just not humanly possible! No matter what you do, Styles, your only fate at WrestleMania against me is to rot in the grave that I will personal dig up for you and your legacy!" Styles responded to Undertaker by telling him that there is no better place for this match to happen than at WrestleMania. "You say that you're going to dig a grave for my legacy? Undertaker, you're going to be one who loses everything to me! You cost me WarGames, and now, I'm going to cost you the one thing that has never escaped you! I'll even put the WWE Title on the line if it means becoming 'The Phenomenal One' in 21 and one! I've never faced anybody like you before and I can admit, but you've never faced anyone like me before, 'Deadman!' The decision is yours now! I've laid out the challenge for the biggest match in the history of professional wrestling! AJ Styles! The Undertaker! Title vs. Streak at WrestleMania!"
"... Styles... you get one shot at this, do you understand me? Never again will you and I do battle in this ring. You have one chance to prove yourself against me. One chance to do what no other man before you has done. One chance to become immortal! One chance to build your throne in the middle of my yard! One chance... to break the Streak."
Undertaker stared down Styles before rolling his eyes into the back of his head and giving the throat-slit taunt. Thunder echoed throughout the Resch Center as Styles raised the WWE Championship high in the air, showing Undertaker what else is going to be on the line at WrestleMania. For the first and only time in history, AJ Styles and The Undertaker collide at WrestleMania XXX. Styles' WWE Championship is up for grabs, and so is the legendary undefeated WrestleMania streak of The Undertaker. 'The Phenomenal One' vs. 'The Phenom.' Title vs. Streak. The biggest match in professional wrestling history at WrestleMania XXX.
Returning to Monday Night RAW, a recap of the opening segment was shown in which WWE Champion AJ Styles and The Undertaker set up what could quite possibly be the biggest match in the history of professional wrestling. At WrestleMania, Styles' WWE Title will be put on the line against the most legendary undefeated streak to ever grace WWE. Either Undertaker adds another WWE Championship to his already Hall of Fame-worthy resume, or Styles pulls off the unfathomable and defeats 'The Phenom' at WrestleMania. A feat that names such as Triple H, Batista, Edge, Kane, Randy Orton and Shawn Michaels were never even able to pull off. "If Styles actually does this, there will be no more doubt in anyone's mind as to whether or not he's the greatest of all time," Corey Graves stated.
► CODY RHODES DEF. KEVIN OWENS: A one-on-one contest that came as part of the fallout from last night's WarGames main event that saw Cody Rhodes send Kevin Owens through a table. 'The Prizefighter' refused to allow 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling' the upper hand, but ultimately had to after after having his Pop Up Powerbomb countered into a pinning predicament. Owens was able to kick out, rise to his feet and charge toward Rhodes with a Clothesline. Rhodes dodged the attack and delivered Cross Rhodes to Owens, covering him for the victory. Rhodes headed up the entrance ramp after a successful outing against Owens, picking up momentum on the Road to WrestleMania. "Rhodes heads into his fifth straight WrestleMania in 41 days, and we know that no matter what the 2013 Superstar of the Year does on the grandest stage of them all, he'll continue to prove himself as one of the greatest of his generation," Mauro Ranallo said.
Post-match, Kevin Owens demanded a microphone, trying to catch his breath while calling out the man who just defeated him, Cody Rhodes. "This... this doesn't end this way, Cody! I am NOT going to let you walk away from this thinking that you've won! The team you were on last at Battleground, and you got lucky tonight! Get back out here, Cody, and fight me!" shouted the deranged Owens who was obsessed with victory. Owens continued to wait for Rhodes, but instead of receiving 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling,' he was met by a different generational superstar. Randy Orton's entrance music sounded, resulting in a thunderous response from the fans in Green Bay. Owens' eyes and mouth were wide open when Orton stepped out onto the stage, returning after being Powerbombed onto the ring apron by Owens last month. "'The Viper' is back and he has Kevin Owens directly in his sights!" shouted Ranallo as Orton ran into the ring. Owens went for a Superkick, but failed to connect and was met with an RKO! Orton slithered on the canvas, looking down at the fallen Owens while getting in his face. Orton stood up soon thereafter and posed on the second rope before looking back at Owens. Orton has returned and managed to strike Owens with an RKO, but that's not going to be good enough for him. 'The Viper' will keep Owens in his crosshairs until he believes he's extracted enough revenge.
Backstage, RAW General Manager Dario Cueto was shown exiting his office, Renee Young approaching him and asking if he had any thoughts about what happened to Shane McMahon prior to RAW kicking off tonight. "It is unfortunate what happened to Shane. It truly is. Stephanie is with him right now I'm sure she'll conduct an investigation soon to find out the truth. I have no clue who attacked him or what this person's motive was, but I will help Stephanie get to the bottom of it... eventually. Right now, though, I'll be heading down to the ring to unveil an innovative concept that only a genius such as myself could come up with. It'll be a... unique opportunity for our superstars." Dario left the picture as he heads to the ring for a major announcement, next on RAW!
Back in the Resch Center, Justin Roberts introduced the RAW General Manager, Dario Cueto. The fans in Green Bay reacted in a mixed manner as Dario was shown already in the ring, thanking the WWE Universe for helping make Battleground yet another successful Pay-Per-View event for WWE. "The WarGames matches weren't my idea, but I'll take the credit for them anyway. But, I am out here to announce something that is my idea. My creation. My latest and greatest gift to the WWE. I've kept this to myself for the past few weeks. Nobody knows about this but me. I never told Stephanie. Never told Allie, although even if I did, she probably would've forgotten about it ten seconds later. But nonetheless, I bring to you all something that I've been eager to share because it's really freaking awesome! On April 10th, RAW and SmackDown will each draft rosters to usher in the next incarnation of the WWE Brand Extension. All of the superstars can't stop thinking about what show they'll end up on and what number they'll be drafted... but what if I told you that one person wouldn't have anything to worry about? I have a unique opportunity for the roster that I am calling... you ready for this... Dario Cueto's Unique Opportunity Battle Royal! Exciting, no? At WrestleMania, this ring will be filled with superstars battling it out until there is one man left standing, and waiting for that individual will be the greatest opportunity of his career. The winner of this Battle Royal will be exempt from the Draft and be allowed to compete on both RAW and SmackDown! Think about what kind of doors a victory in this match will open for someone. They can challenge for any championship they desire. Compete against any superstar they want to. While everyone else will be bound to their rosters, someone will have endless opportunities at success on either brand. If you win this match, you essentially become the most powerful superstar on the roster! Truly an innovation that I am going to pat myself on the back for because I deserve it. Now, the only question remaining is which superstars will compete for free agency at WrestleMania? Right now, the first two participants will do battle one-on-one. The first entrant into my Unique Opportunity Battle Royal at WrestleMania is the man who demanded a prime spot at the biggest show of the year last night. He wasn't supposed to be cleared to compete for another few weeks, but I had a personal doctor evaluate him and it's been determined that he is more than ready to go. Please welcome back 'The One Man Army,' Roman Reigns!"
The WWE Universe reacted with mostly boos as Reigns made his way out to the stage for the first time since failing to qualify for the Manifest Destiny finals in a scenario that he had no control over. "Reigns let Manifest Destiny slip away from him, but think about where his career would go if he were to win the Unique Opportunity Battle Royal? We'd be seeing 'The One Man Army' on Mondays and Thursdays each and every week, making it - if you ask me - impossible to not see him as a World Champion sooner than later," said Corey Graves as Reigns stepped into the ring. Dario extended his hand out, but Reigns turned away from him and stood in a corner. "... Very well, Reigns. The second entrant into my Unique Opportunity Battle Royal is a man with heart. A man who has proven time and time again that giving up is not an option for him. An individual who has captivated the WWE Universe like no one else. He is resilient. He will do whatever it takes to emerge victorious, and I have no doubt that this Battle Royal will be any different. I'm... I'm almost anxious to introduce him because I know that the second I do, the roof is going to come off of this place. Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the second participant in Dario Cueto's Unique Opportunity Battle Royal... Bo Rotundo!"
► ROMAN REIGNS DEF. BO ROTUNDO: "... Bo. It's Bo," was all that Mauro Ranallo said when Bo Rotundo made his entrance after a grand introduction from Dario Cueto. Bo made his way down to the ring, shaking Dario's hand before asking for his microphone. Bo approached Reigns, telling 'The One Man Army' that he had been waiting for his return for what felt like ages. "The truth, Roman, is that the entire time I've been searching for a tag team partner, I was secretly waiting for this very moment! Think about it! We could be 'Boman!'" he said happily before Reigns delivered an uppercut. Bo fell to the canvas and crawled towards the ropes to rest, not realizing that Reigns was going to circle the ringside area and catch him with a drive by Dropkick. Reigns stood on the apron and looked over his shoulder to notice Dario applauding him. Reigns stepped into the ring, Bo trying to strike him. Reigns caught Bo's fist before pushing him away. When Bo got back to his feet, Reigns delivered a Superman Punch! The dazed Bo used the ropes to assist him up, quickly receiving a Spear thereafter. Reigns covered Bo for the easy victory in his return, his arm being raised while keeping his eyes locked on Dario. Reigns exited the ring and headed up the entrance ramp, re-establishing his dominance on his way to the Unique Opportunity Battle Royal at WrestleMania that could result in him becoming a free agent while everyone else on the roster are bound to the brand split.
A promo was shown for this week's edition of NXT. After successfully capturing the NXT Championship at TakeOver: R Evolution, Finn Balor addresses the NXT Universe for the first time with the gold. Plus, after Emma defeated Bayley in controversial fashion to regain the NXT Women's Championship, how will Iconic display their dominance over the women's division next? WWE NXT, this Wednesday on the WWE Network.
► SETH ROLLINS W/ TRIPLE H DEF. RUSEV: During Seth Rollins and Triple H's entrance, the two were accompanied by a team of security guards, Mauro Ranallo critical of Rollins' desperation to keep himself safe from Dean Ambrose. "I know that you think Rollins is afraid of Ambrose, Mauro, but if you were in his position, you'd take the same precautions. Imagine having a lunatic like Dean Ambrose watching your every move and waiting for his chance to strike? Rollins is not afraid of Ambrose, he's simply protecting himself from somebody who belongs in a mental institution. Not the WWE roster," said Corey Graves. Rusev, who was coming off of a hellacious Monster's Ball match at Battleground, displayed his battle wounds with tape on his shoulder, surprisingly his only injury after crashing through the LED board with the eventual winner of the match, Braun Strowman. In the closing moments of the contest, Rusev stood on the second rope and fired away with strikes to the head of Rollins. In a shocking showcase of Rollins' strength, he managed to place Rusev on his shoulders and send him into a corner with a Buckle Bomb! Rusev fell to the canvas, Rollins running the ropes and Curb Stomping his injured shoulder into the canvas! Rusev only had his good shoulder to rely on, unable to make it back to his feet as Rollins hit him with a normal Curb Stomp this time. Rollins covered him for the victory before being joined in the ring by Triple H and his team of security. Rollins took a microphone, making sure to focus on the hard camera as if it were Dean Ambrose himself. "Ambrose, I know that you think our story is far from over, but let me make one thing clear. Battleground was the end of you and I. But if you want to come after me, be my guest because this time, you won't be hailed as some hero by the WWE Universe. You'll be rightfully seen as a criminal by our justice system and your ass will get thrown into prison for assaulting me! Try me, Dean Ambrose. I dare you." Rollins threw his microphone down as Triple H patted him on the back, the duo leaving with their security guards. Rollins has made it clear that he doesn't plan to continue his rivalry with Ambrose, but if 'The Lunatic Fringe' does, there'll be legal repercussions.
Backstage, Enzo Amore was shown walking around, repeatedly shouting Matt Hardy's name as he was on the search for 'The Broken One' to reclaim his Hardcore Championship. "You really want to be broken, Matt. Come out here and I'll crack your dome with a haymaker!" Enzo was then approached by his tag team partner, Big Cass, who said that they needed to talk. "Cass, can't you see I'm busy right now? I got me a Hardy to track down and smack down on. You know how it is." Cass told Enzo that's why they needed to talk. "Matt Hardy isn't here," he said, Enzo asking how he knew that. "Because someone just handed me this," said Cass before giving Enzo a piece of paper that resembled a ransom note. "Dear man with the unconfirmed certification of G, it is I, Matt Hardy. My 'Broken Brilliance' and I cannot be bothered to travel the nation with you and the man of great vertical stature breathing down the necks of myself and my beloved Championship of the Hardcore. Therefore, if you wish to see what you believe to be your lost possession ever again, you will adhere to my request and meet me at the battlefield. Come to House Hardy and be deleted once and for all." Enzo glanced at Cass, telling him that they needed to go now. "I need my Hardcore Title back, Cass, and I guess I gotta play by this broken bastard's rules. Come on. You gotta drive us." Cass asked Enzo why he couldn't drive himself. "You know I got a suspended license in North Cacklalacky." Cass responded with, "And you know why I can't take us..." Enzo took a few seconds to realize what Cass was referring to. "Oh, right! You never learned how to drive!" Cass made Enzo quiet down before the two were forced to brainstorm ways of getting to 'House Hardy.' "You know, James Ellsworth would more than likely be willing to drop everything and drive us." Both Enzo and Cass contemplated asking Ellsworth for assistance briefly before saying, "Nah," in unison. Finally, Cass had an idea. "What if... what if we call Carmella?" Enzo's reaction suggested that he resented the idea. "I don't think she'll do it, man. You know she still hates us 'cause of what happened to her poodle." "Enzo, to be fair, that was your fault entirely. Alright, she doesn't hate me... at least not yet. I'll call her and see if she can drive us to House Hardy. It's worth a shot."
A graphic was shown for an edition of Miz TV with special guest, the wife of the superstar who Miz defeated last night to retain the United States Championship, Brie Bella. Miz and Maryse interview Brie, next on Monday Night RAW!
Returning from the commercial break, the entrance music of The Miz sounded as the United States Champion made his way out to the stage along with his wife, Maryse. The WWE Universe showered Miz with boos after 'The Awesome One' quite possibly ended the career of Daniel Bryan last night at Battleground. "Bryan knew the risk that he was taking by stepping into the ring against The Miz last night. Miz even warned Bryan of what would happen, and did he listen? No. I'm sorry, but if Bryan's career truly is over, he has nobody to blame but himself, said Corey Graves as Miz entered the ring that was propped and ready for his talk show. "Welcome everyone to the most must-see talk show in WWE history, welcome to Miz TV! Last night at Battleground, the world stood behind Daniel Bryan as he bravely stepped into the squared circle against me with his body in an incredibly fragile state. One false move was all it would take for Bryan to lose everything at my hands, and did everyone's favorite bearded-superhero stand tall? Did he overcome the dastardly United States Champion and save the WWE Universe?" Miz asked before a picture from Battleground of him standing over Bryan's fallen body was displayed on the titantron. "... Didn't I tell all of you? Did I not say ahead of time that this is exactly what was going to happen? Daniel Bryan foolishly competed against a superstar of my caliber with a neck that was ready to give out at any second! Daniel Bryan lost two battles last night. He lost the one against me for the United States Championship... and he also lost the one against himself. He went full speed and his body reached its limits. Bryan thought with his heart instead of his brain and as a result, the latter is in a state of decay. Bryan's career is over, and as much as I would love to take all of the credit for it, he deserves a hell of a lot of it because none of this would've been possible without his ignorance. Now, we look ahead to the life of Daniel Bryan post-wrestling. What does it look like for him? Where does he go from here? Fortunately, my guest tonight has all of the answers that we're looking for. Ladies and gentlemen, please give it up for Mrs. Daniel Bryan herself, Brie Bella!"
Miz and Maryse both sarcastically clapped their hands as Brie stepped out onto the stage, visibly distraught just as everyone would expect her to be considering what happened at Battleground. During Brie's entrance, the picture of Miz defeating Bryan never left the titantron. She looked over her shoulder and glanced at the image before turning back to Miz and Maryse with hatred in her eyes. Brie entered the ring, Miz welcoming her to the show. "We got off on the wrong foot last night, but since Maryse is a sweet, kind, forgiving angel, she's willing to bury the hatchet with you." Maryse extended her arms out for a hug, Brie asking the WWE's 'it couple' if they were serious. "My husband is in a hospital bed right now because of you... and your first words to me are about burying the hatchet?" Brie asked in a disgusted tone. "Brie... I didn't bring you onto my show to apologize to you or anybody else because quite frankly, I have nothing to apologize for. Alright? I had a job to do last night and I did it. I told Bryan time and time again what was going to happen and did he listen? Not even a single bit. Did you even try convincing him?" Brie lashed out at Miz, telling him that she also reminded Bryan the kind of danger he was putting himself in by competing at Battleground. "I knew that he could be careful and look out for himself, but I also knew that you were going to target him and try to end his career! This isn't his fault, nor is it mine so don't you dare try to spin this story, Miz! You're the one concussed him! He would be by my side right now had it not been for you! You could've killed him and all you can do right now is try to place the blame onto him?!?"
"Brie, you know I could have you removed from this ring whenever I want to, right? I mean, you're not even a part of the roster anymore because you traded an in-ring career for a spot on a reality TV show," Miz said to Brie before she pointed out the hypocrisy of his statement. "Really, Miz? You're going to criticize me for reality TV? The guy who would have never had an opportunity to make it to the WWE without reality TV." Miz responded to Brie by telling her that he indeed was a part of a few reality TV shows at one point. "And you know what happened after that? I worked on the independent scene, busted my ass to get to WWE and worked a million times harder than I ever did before just for people to respect me! I put myself through hell so that people like your husband could understand I belong in this ring because he, too, saw me as a joke! And look where that got him! I main evented WrestleMania and he still has yet to! I made it to the top of this company while my body can still take the abuse of in-ring competition! I didn't break down on the indies and come to the WWE as a shell of my former self like he did! And make sure to cherish that Total Divas gig since it's what's going to pay your bills from now on because I retired Daniel Bryan! And why are you mad at me for that?! All I did was compete in a professional wrestling match like I'm supposed to! Your husband was the one who defied doctors' orders and put his life at risk without even once thinking about you or your future children! Daniel Bryan did this to himself! Daniel Bryan did this to you!"
Brie would then slap Miz across his face, prompting Maryse to go after her. Brie stayed one step ahead and took Maryse down to the canvas, striking her repeatedly in a scene similar to the opening moments of last night's United States Championship match. To save his wife from further assault, Miz grabbed Brie, locked her arms in place and planted her face-first with the Skull Crushing Finale. The atmosphere in the Resch Center suddenly turned quiet as Miz rose to his feet, taking Maryse by her hand and assisting her to her feet. Miz continued to stare at Brie's fallen body with an expression on his face different from the one he had after defeating Daniel Bryan at Battleground. Miz' face didn't show that he was particularly proud of his actions. Instead, his face essentially said, "That really just happened. I really just did that." Miz and Maryse both exited the ring and headed up the ramp while officials passed by them to tend to Brie. Miz did what he felt he needed to for Maryse's sake, but ultimately, he just put his hands on the wife of the man he might have retired just 24 hours ago.
► ANTONIO CESARO, KASSIUS OHNO, TYSON KIDD & ADRIAN NEVILLE DEF. CHRIS JERICHO, CHRISTIAN & THE REVIVAL: After Kassius Ohno made his return last Friday on SmackDown, 'The Knockout Artist' teamed up with Antonio Cesaro, Tyson Kidd and Adrian Neville to battle their four arch rivals. Kidd and Neville were able to eliminate The Revival as factors after leaping over the top rope and onto Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder respectively. Back in the ring, Christian attempted to deliver the Killswitch to Cesaro, only to have Ohno knock his lights out with the Rolling Elbow. Cesaro hit Christian with the Neutralizer while Ohno kept Chris Jericho at bay to give his unit the victory. Cesaro, Ohno, Kidd and Neville all stood tall in the ring, Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves both noting how much the tag team division is heating up on the Road to WrestleMania.
On the subject of the tag team division, a recap was shown of the entire Best of Seven Series between The Alpha Wolves and The New Day for the WWE Tag Team Championships. Beginning toward the end of December, New Day took an early lead by defeating Eddie Edwards and Davey Richards. The series was tied at one a piece heading into Concrete Jungle, where New Day began their roll that would see them eventually gain a 3-1 lead over the defending champions. All New Day had to do was emerge from Match 5 at the Royal Rumble victorious and they would become the new champions. The Alpha Wolves spoiled their chance at victory, and came back from behind to even the series. Match 7 was set for Battleground, but New Day were forced by SmackDown General Manager Kurt Angle to swap out Kofi Kingston for Xavier Woods, who had not competed in a single match in the series up to that point. New Day and Alpha Wolves gave each other their best shots at Battleground, but ultimately, Woods and Big E were able to display the 'Power of Positivity' and win both the series and the WWE Tag Team Championships. This Friday on SmackDown, New Day hold their celebration in their first appearance as Tag Team Champions.
► SOFIA CORTEZ DEF. ALICIA FOX: History was made last night at Battleground when the first ever women's WarGames match took place between Team AJ Lee and Team Alexa Bliss. However, it was Sofia Cortez who ultimately got the victory for AJ's team, taking advantage of Alexa's introduction to the dreaded thumbtacks. Sofia was able to put Alicia Fox with La Sicaria before she was joined in the ring by Cathy Kelley, who asked for her thoughts after scoring the winning pinfall for AJ's team at Battleground. Sofia said that what happened at Battleground was a long time coming for her. "Ever since TLC, all I've wanted was to watch 'Little Miss Bliss' suffer for sticking her nose where it don't belong. I saw an opportunity to get my revenge on Alexa Bliss and I took it. Now, I think I'm the one in the driver's seat of this division on the way to WrestleMania. The match on April 6th is Alexa Bliss vs. AJ Lee... but has AJ ever pinned Alexa? No, but guess what? I have. I pinned the WWE Women's Champion in the middle of this ring last night, so if anybody's getting a title shot at WrestleMania, it's me. I don't care if the match has already been made. I proved last night that I deserve..." Sofia was cut off by the sound of AJ Lee's entrance music and the monstrous ovation from the WWE Universe that followed. AJ made her way down to ringside, skipping around the ring the entire time. She never once looked at Sofia or even tried to enter the ring. AJ simply skipped until her little, cold heart was satisfied and her objective - whatever that may have been - was fulfilled. AJ skipped back up the entrance ramp, Sofia knowing that the 'Black Widow of WWE' was attempting mind games with her. Sofia has made it clear that despite AJ Lee and Alexa Bliss' title match at WrestleMania being official already, she deserves to challenge for the gold on the biggest stage in professional wrestling.
In the backstage area, Dario Cueto was shown on the phone with Stephanie McMahon, who was still at a nearby medical facility with Shane McMahon. "... No, I haven't started the investigation because I was busy with something else. You want to know what that was? Get ready, because you're gonna love it! Dario Cueto's Unique Opp-" was all that Dario could get out before Allie entered the room. "Allie, not right now," Dario said before trying to continue his conversation. Evident by his choice of words, Stephanie changed the subject. "Yeah... she's right here." Seconds later, Dario put his phone on speaker, motioning for Allie to speak up. "Hi, M-Ms. Stephanie. How is Shane doing?" Allie asked, Stephanie clearly not interested in having a genuine conversation with her assistant. "You were supposed to wrestle Paige last night on the Battleground Kickoff, were you not?" Stephanie asked. "Y-yes, Ms. Stephanie, I was. But Paige told me to leave-" was all that Allie could get out before Stephanie screamed at the top of her lungs through her phone. "Paige is not your boss! I am and I gave you an order to fight her! I could just make the match again, but Paige isn't going to fight you and I don't have the time nor patience to deal with her right now. So, here's what's going to happen. You're going to show up to SmackDown on Friday dressed to compete because you WILL be making your in-ring debut. And don't worry about your opponent. I'll make sure that get the competition that the WWE Universe wants to see you be put up against, Allie. Got it?"
"... Yes, Ms. Stephanie. Whatever... whatever you want from me... I'll do it."
Returning from the commercial break, the opening piano notes of "Glorious Domination" sounded, leading into the WWE Universe singing along with the powerful chorus. Soon thereafter, Bobby Roode made his way out to the stage, Justin Roberts introducing 'The Glorious One' into the Resch Center. Roode, who had an impressive showing last night as part of Team Derrick Bateman. Roode stepped into the ring and took a microphone, saying that when he came into the WWE just a few months ago, he made it clear that a once in a lifetime superstar was gracing the WWE Universe with a presence that they have never seen before. "I told you all that when 'The It Factor' walked through the door, nothing else mattered. In my very first match for WWE, I beat Cody Rhodes. I was on the verge of victory in the Royal Rumble match. Last night, it was my in-ring prowess and leadership that allowed Team Derrick Bateman to come out of WarGames victorious. But somewhere in all of this was a victory of mine that slipped everyone's one-dimmensional minds. Last week, I pinned CM Punk. And as a result, you are looking at the man who is going to capture the Intercontinental Championship this Friday night on SmackDown. My intention was to come out to this ring and call out Punk, but guess what? He's not here. The so-called 'Voice of the Voiceless' is literally voiceless himself today. And it's all because his friends hurt his little feelings last night by kicking him to the curb. So now, Punk thinks that he can just no-show whenever he pleases. I don't think that is the kind of man who should be carrying around one of the most prestigious championships this industry has to offer, and you know who agreed with me? Dario Cueto, which is why he gave me the task of letting you all know that if CM Punk doesn't show up to SmackDown this week to defend his Intercontinental Championship, he'll be stripped of the title and yours truly will be crowned the brand new Intercontinental Champion. Whether you show up or not, Punk, the result is going to be the same. This Friday night, a new era is officially ushered in when Bobby Roode becomes the Intercontinental Champion, raises it high above his head and reminds everybody that there is no bigger star in the world! And that... will truly be... GLORIOUS!" Roode's music played one more time to accompany his exit from the ring after announcing his Intercontinental Championship match with CM Punk this Friday on SmackDown. And if Punk does not show up, he'll be stripped of the title and it would then be awarded to the new champion, Bobby Roode.
A graphic was shown for the upcoming main event of the evening. In a No Holds Barred match, WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman battles Paige, next on RAW!
Prior to the start of the main event, a graphic was shown for yet another huge match-up this Friday on SmackDown. Coming off of losses in the Monster's Ball match, Samoa Joe and Baron Corbin will go one-on-one, and there's no doubt that whoever is able to seize victory will set their sights on the individual who defeated them at Battleground, Braun Strowman. Corbin vs. Joe, plus CM Punk vs. Bobby Roode for the Intercontinental Championship, and Allie's in-ring debut. All of that and much more, this Friday night on SmackDown!
► PAIGE DEF. WWE UNIVERSAL CHAMPION DERRICK BATEMAN IN A NON-TITLE NO HOLDS BARRED MATCH: A main event that was every bit as gruesome as one would expect, and more. Derrick Bateman sported a large bandage on his head that didn't take long for Paige to remove. 'The Anti-Diva' targeted the staples in Bateman's head that she was responsible for, only to be pushed away and kicked out of the ring. Bateman took out a kendo stick from underneath the ring, leveling Paige in the back with it. The two traded momentum several times throughout the match, Paige having the upper hand later on. She set a table up in the ring, catching Bateman with two Bicycle Knees to daze him to the point where she could lay him flat on the table's surface. Paige headed to the top rope, no one certain of what she was attempting since it was uncharacteristic of her to go for an aerial attack. Paige flew through the air with a Shooting Star Press, intentionally landing knees-first onto Bateman through the table! Paige struggled to immediately get the cover, which is likely the reason for Bateman kicking out at two. Paige got to her feet and took the kendo stick that was introduced earlier, going after Bateman with it. However, the Universal Champion was able to hoist Paige onto his shoulders and plant her with a TKO. Paige was laid out in the center of the ring, Bateman having the opening to cover her. As he was about to do so, John Cena ran down to the ring. Cena, who has made it clear that he wants a Universal Title opportunity at WrestleMania, fired away with shots to the head of Bateman before taking him down with a Running Shoulder Block. Cena removed his shirt and threw it the audience before telling Bateman that he couldn't see him. Cena's attempt the Five Knuckle Shuffle was thwarted when Bateman struck him on the top of his head with the kendo stick. Bateman hit Cena twice with the stick before throwing it to the side, picking up 'The Face That Runs the Place' to finish him off. At that moment, the crowd reaction grew even louder as Brock Lesnar hit the ring through the audience! "Derrick run!" Corey Graves screamed into his headset. Lesnar turned Bateman around and lifted him onto his shoulders, connecting with an F-5! Lesnar, who had not been seen since being eliminated by Bateman in the Royal Rumble match, just got a measure of revenge against 'The Devil Himself' by taking him out! Lesnar walked backward up the entrance ramp, making sure that his involvement would pay off. Paige crawled toward Bateman, covering him as the official finally made the three count! "Paige has done it! Paige beat Derrick Bateman!" was the call from Mauro Ranallo as the announcement was made that 'The Anti-Diva' was victorious. Paige slid out of the ring and headed into the audience, celebrating her first victory since returning to her old self last week. "No... no. Paige did NOT beat Derrick Bateman! John Cena and Brock Lesnar did!" Graves said while Lesnar exited through the curtain, Cena rising to his feet at ringside after piecing together everything that occurred after Bateman battered him with a kendo stick. The focus in the closing moments of the show was placed onto Paige, who was finally able to put her desire for revenge against Bateman to rest.
With Bateman defeated, only one target remains for Paige to vanquish: Bray Wyatt.
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