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Post by Planktung on Dec 31, 2016 1:59:50 GMT -5
January 20th, 2014 - Immediately following the signature WWE intro, cameras cut directly to the Nutter Center in Dayton, Ohio, where the RAW Commissioner Stephanie McMahon, the RAW General Manager Dario Cueto, and their brand new assistant, former TNA Knockout Allie, were shown in the ring. Stephanie welcomed the WWE Universe to the final edition of RAW before the Royal Runble on Sunday, the fans booing her relentlessly. "... And as always, please welcome the RAW General Manager, Dario Cueto," Stephanie stated, using the fans' reactions to her benefit since she knew they would be hostile towards him as well. "And... This is..." said Stephanie while glaring at Allie, the WWE Universe already responding positively to her. The fact that Allie's popularity from TNA managed to carry over to her RAW debut greatly irked Stephanie, who refused to be upstaged by the new girl. "... She's not important," Stephanie said instead of properly introducing Allie, who appeared rather crushed that Stephanie seemed to have wasted no time taking a disliking to her.
"What's important right now is that you all please rise and show respect to the man who has made tonight possible. The man who made the Royal Rumble and WrestleManja possible. The one... There only... Vincent Kennedy McMahon!" The fans in Dayton erupted for the arrival of the Chairman, who strutted his way down to the squared circle for a major announcement that will change the landscape of WWE going forward. Once in the ring, Vince shook hands with the three members of the RAW management team, Allie's mood returning to that of joyfulness after meeting Vince for the first time. "How are we feeling tonight, Dayton?" asked Vince, the audience responding positively again. "I appreciate the introduction, Stephanie. And not only that, but I'm glad that you decided to be here for this. It really shows your determination to make RAW the superior brand by scouting your competition over on SmackDown. I wish you and your team luck because it's not going to be easy. That being said, allow me to introduce to everyone the Commissioner of SmackDown Live..."
"Here comes the money!"
With that familiar introduction came the eruption of the WWE Universe as Shane McMahon made his way out to the stage, Stephanie's face turning pale white. "This is perfect! I love this! Mr. McMahon is ensuring that RAW and SmackDown Live will never let the other brand get the upper hand by pitting his own children against each other!" Corey Graves exclaimed on commentary, clearly excited about the decision to name 'Shane-O-Mac' the Commissioner of SmackDown. Shane, who had not beens seen since the night after Survivor Series when he was taken out by Derrick Bateman, stepped into the ring and shook his father's hand. He then turned to the RAW staff, Allie trying to approach Shane to shake his hand. Stephanie and Dario Cueto, however, grabbed Allie by her arms and reeled her back in, not allowing her to be friendly with their competitor. Vince handed his microphone over to Shane before leaving the ring, the new SmackDown Commissioner fully expecting to exchange words with the RAW staff. That was not to be, however, as Stephanie and Dario went to leave the ring, both irate over the decision by Vince. Allie remained in the ring, Dario being forced to tap her on the shoulder and let her know that she needed to leave with him and Stephanie. Shane watched Stephanie, Dario and Allie head up the entrance ramp before he turned back to the audience that continued to go wild for him. "What's up, Dayton?" asked Shane to an overwhelming response. "Feels like it's been forever since I was last in this ring apologizing to all of you for allowing Derrick Bateman to take control of this company. Just two months later, look at where we are now. Not only has Bateman been shoved out of the picture already, but now, 'Shane-O-Mac' is going to be running things on Thursday nights!" After letting the crowd simmer down again, Shane stated that he knows SmackDown Live will be at a disadvantage going into the brand extension. "SmackDown isn't considered to be the flagship show. We won't have the three hour time slot. We're at a disadvantage, but at the same time, there's one major distinction between RAW and SmackDown and that's the team leading the shows. Stephanie and Dario will run RAW the way they see fit, while I am assuring the WWE Universe right now that SmackDown Live will be your show. Together, we are going to take SmackDown Live to the very top of the WWE. We will have better talent. We'll have better opportunities. Better shows. Whatever you can think of, Team Blue is gonna wipe the floor with Monday Night RAW! But... I can't do it alone. That's why I need a General Manager... And you know what? I've already found one. Somebody who will put the WWE Universe's best interest before anything else. Somebody who I trust to stand by my side and take charge. Unlike Dario Cueto, this individual is not an egomaniac. They are not in this for the money, but to serve you guys and give you the best product possible. This Sunday night at the Royal Rumble, I want Stephanie and Dario to join me in this ring and meet the SmackDown General Manager." Shane placed his microphone down onto the canvas and waved to the audience, believing that he was finished for the evening. He had just been announced as the SmackDown Live Commissioner, and made it clear to the WWE Universe that on Sunday night, he will reveal the blue brand's General Manager come the brand extension. However...
"Quiet on the set! Can we please have quiet on the set?!" The entrance music of the United States Champion, The Miz, sounded as 'The Awesome One' stepped out onto the stage along with Maryse. In the ring, Shane picked his microphone back up, knowing that he would need it with the arrival of one of WWE's biggest loudmouths. Miz and Maryse stepped into the squared circle, the United States Champion acting uncharacteristically kind to Shane. "Congratulations, Shane-O-Mac! For once, you won't have to stand in the shadows of your father or your sister. SmackDown Live will be all yours, and I know that you've probably already made up on your mind on who you want to take as your first draft pick on April 10th. And right now, you have the authority to make things right for a potential star of your brand. See, Dario Cueto and Stephanie thought it would be a brilliant idea to force me to defend my United States Championship in a Triple Threat match at the Royal Rumble. Surely, you see what's wrong with that, right? How dare anybody put the most must-see superstar in WWE history in a match where he doesn't even have to be involved in the decision to lose his title? That is the very definition of injustice, but you, Shane, can fix all of that. Do the right thing and give me just one opponent on Sunday. I don't care if it's Daniel Bryan or Austin Aries because I've beaten both of them already." Shane, whose facial expression clearly stated that he had no interested in aiding The Miz, told 'The Awesome One' that he's not making anybody any promises when it comes to the Draft in April. "Are you a future member of the SmackDown Live roster? Maybe. Are you the first overall pick...?" Shane said, waving his hand in a motion indicating that he didn't see eye-to-eye with Miz on that. "Here's the thing, Miz," Shane said before he was cut off by Austin Aries' entrance music. Miz turned to the stage with his mouth closed and eyes wide open, fuming while 'The Greatest Man That Ever Lived' marched down to the ring with a microphone already in hand. "You know, Miz, you and I have never seen eye-to-eye," Aries said before Miz cut him off with, "Yeah, because you're a foot shorter than me." Aries smirked at Miz before removing his sunglasses, continuing on with his point. "We're not friends by any means, but for once, I agree with you. It is a travesty that the United States Championship match on Sunday is a Triple Threat because Daniel Bryan has no business being in this picture. This whole thing started between you and me on Miz TV at the Slammy Awards. Bryan interjected himself into our situation because how else would he remain relevant? Shane, listen to Miz and do the right thing. Take Daniel Bryan out of this championship match at the Royal Rumble and let Miz and I set settle what we started." Miz nodded his head in agreement, Shane looking out at the fans who were not in favor of the proposal. "What do you think, Dayton? Should I take Daniel Bryan out of the United States Title match on Sunday?" Shane asked, the fans responding with constant, "No!" chants. Maryse lashed out at the WWE Universe, yelling at them to be quiet. "So then... Should Daniel Bryan compete for the United States Championship in a Triple Threat match?" This time, "Yes!" chants filled the arena, Shane making the unaminous decision to leave Bryan in the match, although he was never even considering changing the match for Sunday. Miz and Aries turned to Shane, both seemingly wanting to take their frustrations out on the SmackDown Live Commissioner. "You gentlemen don't worry about me. Worry about him," Shane said to the two of them, pointing behind them. When Miz and Aries turned around, Daniel Bryan appeared out of nowhere, leaping off of the top rope with a Dropkick to them! Bryan rose to his feet while Miz and Aries evaded the squared circle, the former making sure to take the United States Championship with him. Bryan, Shane and the fans in Dayton performed the "Yes!" taunt collectively while Miz and Maryse retreated up the entrance ramp, Aries remaining on the ground while holding the back of his head. Who will leave the Royal Rumble this Sunday night at the United States Champion? The Miz, Austin Aries or Daniel Bryan?
► CODY RHODES DEF. BOBBY ROODE: A Concrete Jungle rematch between two of the favorites to become WWE Universal Champion this Sunday night at the Royal Rumble. Bobby Roode, who suffered his first defeat at the hands of Cody Rhodes in a tag team match two weeks ago, considered himself to still be undefeated since he had yet to lose in a one-on-one contest. Unfortunately for 'The Glorious One,' the match type made no difference as Rhodes slid off of his shoulders during a Roode Bomb attempt, 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling' connecting with Cross Rhodes! Rhodes got the cover on Roode, getting the three count to officially give Roode his first one-on-one pinfall loss in WWE. Rhodes celebrated in the ring while motioning for the Universal Title. "Cody is one of thirty superstars who will have the chance to make history on Sunday night, and if there's anything that we learned in 2013, it's that Cody thrives in big match championship situations," Corey Graves said. "Like Russel Wilson looking for his first Super Bowl ring, Cody Rhodes looks to become the first-ever WWE Universal Champion at the Royal Rumble," added Mauro Ranallo while Rhodes greeted fans in the front row while heading to the back.
► THE REVIVAL DEF. ANTONIO CESARO & ADRIAN NEVILLE: Another contest here tonight involving superstars who are on the hunt to make history at the Royal Rumble by winning the WWE Universal Championship. Acting as the continuation to last Friday night's main event on SmackDown, Antonio Cesaro and Adrian Neville were hoping to dethrone The Revival for the first time. Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder provided their most impressive outing yet. At one point, Cesaro had Dash in position for the Cesaro Swing, only for Dawson to deliver a Lariat to the back of his head. Dawson tossed Cesaro to the outside before Neville, who was the legal man, retaliated against The Revival with a series of kicks. Neville ran the ropes, only to be hoisted into the air for the Shatter Machine! Dash hooked both of Neville's legs to secure the victory for Dawson and himself. The Revival headed up the entrance ramp while Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves both agreed that Dash and Dawson have to viewed as wild cards in the Royal Rumble match. "They're brand new, but they're very good when working as a unit. If the entry numbers work out in their favor, twenty-eight other superstars could be destined to fall at the feet of The Revival."
Backstage, the SmackDown Live Commissioner, Shane McMahon, was shown walking towards the office of Stephanie McMahon and Dario Cueto, wanting to speak with the RAW staff after they avoided confronting him earlier in the night. Shane walked into the office, only to find Allie there alone, packing Stephanie and Dario's belongings for them. Shane asked Allie where Stephanie and Dario were. "Ms. Stephanie and Mr. Dario asked me to get their stuff so we can leave to Pittsburgh... Also, they told me not to talk to you because your'e the enemy and the enemy doesn't like us although I think you're pretty cool but they're my bosses and they gave me an order so I should really-" Allie said all in one breath, Shane trying to calm her down. Allie took Stephanie and Dario's bags and walked out of the room, Shane looking around the office that was very similar to the one he'll be occupying as the SmackDown Live Commissioner. Shane then heard the door open, assuming that Allie had forgotten something. Instead, he was greeted by Bo Rotundo, who told Shane, "Long time no see, buddy!" "... Bo... We've never met," Shane stated. "You're hilarious, Shane! You know what else is hilarious? The fact that people don't think I have a shot at winning the WWE Universal Champion on Sunday. You have faith in me, right?" Bo asked with a huge smile lighting up his face. "... I don't not have faith in you," responded Shane. Bo then told the SmackDown Live Commissioner that he hopes he'll be there at the Royal Rumble to watch him become Universal Champion. "I have big plans for my future, and those plans could include you. I've been searching for a new tag team partner and I can't think of anybody better fit for that role than you," Bo said, Shane reminding him that he's not an active competitor. "Not with that attitude! Think about it. We could be... Shane-BO-Mac!" Shane was essentially left speechless at the level of delusion Bo had achieved, leaving him by himself in the office. "... Think about it, Shane!"
On split-screen, Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins were shown walking down corridors. The two men who will challenge for the WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble go one-on-one, next on RAW!
A promo was shown for this Wednesday's edition of NXT. The NXT Women's Champion, Bayley, and the number one contender, Emma, will make their championship match at TakeOver: R-Evolution official when they sign their contract. Plus, the two male Tough Enough winners, Matt Riddle and Jeff Cobb, battle it out in a Royal Rumble qualifier. WWE NXT, this Wednesday night on the WWE Network!
► DEAN AMBROSE DEF. SETH ROLLINS: Before this Sunday night's Triple Threat match for the WWE Championship, Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins had the chance to gain momentum in this one-on-one contest. While Triple H was nowhere to be seen tonight, he will be present at the Royal Rumble, Mauro Ranallo noting that 'The Game' could be the difference maker for Rollins against Ambrose and AJ Styles. Speaking of Styles, the WWE Champion made his way down to ringside halfway into the contest, Ambrose and Rollins trying to keep their attention strictly on each other. After Rollins hit Ambrose with a forearm, 'The Lunatic Fringe' rebounded off the ropes with an attempt at the Nigel Lariat. Rollins hit him with a Superkick, covering him for a two count. After Ambrose kicked out, Rollins began sizing him up for the Curb Stomp. Rollins pointed at Styles, telling the WWE Champion that Ambrose's fate was going to be his as well on Sunday. Rollins went for the Curb Stomp, but Ambrose stood up during the attempt. Rollins landed on his feet, Ambrose locking his arms in place for Dirty Deeds! Ambrose covered Rollins, getting the victory and a measure of revenge for what happened to him back at TLC. Ambrose stood tall in the ring, looking over the top rope at Styles and the WWE Title that he raised in the air. The Manifest Destiny winner motioned for the WWE Championship, Styles telling Ambrose that he and Rollins would have to kill him on Sunday if either of them wanted the chance to leave Pittsburgh with his title.
► RUSEV VS. BRAUN STROWMAN IN AN OVER-THE-TOP ROPE CHALLENGE ENDED IN A NO CONTEST: For weeks now, Braun Strowman has been wrecking havoc every week on Monday Night RAW, asserting his dominance against opponents much, much smaller than him. It wasn't until Rusev confronted the monster that Strowman showed signs of weakness for the first time. Now, the two mammoths collided in an Over-the-Top Rope Challenge just six days away from the Royal Rumble, where both will compete in the Rumble match for the WWE Universal Title. Strowman and Rusev ran into with shoulder tackles, neither being able to take the other down. Both superstars refused to leave their feet, Rusev kicking Strowman in the jaw three times and still being unable to get him down. Rusev backed Strowman into the ropes, charging towards him. Strowman hit Rusev with a Clothesline, 'The Bulgarian Brute' stumbling. Strowman grabbed Rusev by his neck and threw him into the ropes, Strowman trying valiantly to get him over the top rope. Both Strowman and Rusev were forcing each other against the ropes when Baron Corbin slid into the ring through the audience, running towards Strowman and Rusev and lifting both of them over the top rope! Strowman and Rusev got to their feet on the outside, the latter shouting at Corbin in Bulgarian. Corbin took a microphone, telling Strowman and Rusev that they've been worried about each other this entire time when in reality, they should be worried about him. "I'm the real giant in the Royal Rumble. I'm the real biggest threat, and if both of continue to not take me seriously, I guarantee that on Sunday, I'll throw your asses over the top rope again and become the WWE Universal Champion!" Corbin threw his microphone down and stood tall in the ring, Strowman leaving while Rusev had to be held back by officials to prevent him from getting his hands on Corbin.
Backstage, SmackDown Live Commissioner, Shane McMahon, was shown walking down a hallway when Renee Young caught up with him, asking why he wanted to confront Stephanie McMahon and Dario Cueto. "They're my competition come the brand split and they both think they've got this whole thing in the bag. I just want to tell Stephanie and Dario to their faces that SmackDown Live isn't going down that easily. We're gonna fight them. We're gonna provide the WWE Universe with a better product. I just hope that on Sunday, Stephanie and Dario don't run away from me again because I want to see the look on their faces when I introduce the General Manager of SmackDown Live." Before Shane exited the picture, he stopped a member of the ring crew who happened to walk by him. "Excuse me, sir. Can you do me a favor?" Shane asked, the worker complying. "Do you happen to know where the Royal Rumble tumbler is?" The worker told Shane that he indeed did. "Perfect. I need you to get that ready for me in the ring soon, and if you can, let Derrick Bateman know that I want him to meet me out there."
"Dayton... We're here!"
The signature of The Wyatt Family led into the shutting of the lights and the emergence of the fireflies in the WWE Universe. Bray Wyatt, who will challenge CM Punk this Sunday night for the Intercontinental Championship, slowly made his way down to the ring, his face illuminated by his signature lantern. Once in the ring, Wyatt blew out the lantern and took a microphone, starting off by saying that Sunday is the day that he's been waiting for for almost his entire life. "Not only does a certain lost soul have his ashes scattered across the pavement of the world that he claims to be the best in, but the reality that my sister is in fact still alive settles in when she claims the universe as her own! Abgail... You were born with greatness as part of your destiny. Make me proud, and I promise to do the same for you," Wyatt said, still believing that Paige was indeed the reincarnated Abigail. "My family steps into the forefront once again on Sunday and then, we will truly be unstoppable! And after we've discarded the universe of its brave yet foolish warriors, the only left for everyone to do will be to look up at the sky... And follow... The..." Before Wyatt could finish the phrase, the static intro of CM Punk's entrance music sounded to a thunderous ovation from Dayton. The Intercontinental Champion marched down to the ring, Punk's facial expression being that of seriousness while Wyatt grinned at him. Once in the ring, Punk took a microphone and told Wyatt that the two of them never really had the chance to talk man-to-man... "Or, man-to-monster," throughout the last six weeks since TLC. "So let's talk, Bray. Let's talk about how you and your family picked a fight with the wrong guy just because you want to make up for the fact that Cody Rhodes made you his bitch after he beat you three times for the WWE Championship. You took an already emotionally tormented young girl and drew her blood because you want to believe with all of your heart that she's somehow your dead sister," Punk said before Wyatt screamed in his face. "Don't you dare bring my sister into this! You want to call me a monster?! Why don't you take a look into the mirror and see what kind of a soulless, heartless false prophet stares back at you?!" Punk told Wyatt that it's funny he called him a 'false prophet' when that's all he's been for the past two years. "You take people like Luke Harper. Like Erick Rowan. Like Paige and you promise them the world when all you do is have them follow you around and do your bidding, just like I'm sure you will on Sunday in our match." Wyatt responded to Punk's claim by laughing, asking him to take a look around the ring. "Do you see Harper, Rowan or Abigail? No because their focus is solely on making sure my sister receives everything she's ever wanted on Sunday. This battle will only be between us. I don't need anyone in my family to aid me in slaying you." Punk laughed off Wyatt's assertion, telling 'The Eater of Worlds' that he would believe him when he sees it. "But I do hope that you're being truthful because too many times in this whole thing have others gotten involved. Paige, Harper, Wyatt, AJ Lee, whoever, up until now, it's never been you and me face-to-face, the way it should be. After everything that's happened to me, whether it be the attack at TLC, or the Slammy Awards, or the fact that I was slammed onto thumbtacks on Madison Square Garden, this is what's destined to happen. CM Punk versus Bray Wyatt one-on-one at the Royal Rumble for the Intercontinental Championship... But at the same time, why wait?" Punk asked before putting down the Intercontinental Title and getting ready to fight Wyatt right there and then. However, the signature of The Wyatt Family hit yet again. Punk was expecting to have to fend off the entire family, but when the lights came back on, he was the only person in the ring. Punk looked around until a voiceover from Wyatt left the Intercontinental Champion with a chilling message before Sunday.
"He's got the whole world in his hands, he's the whole wide world in his hands. He's got the whole world in his hands, he's got... The 'Best in the World' in his hands..."
Returning from the break, a video package was shown to reveal the first inductee into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2014. The only man in history to hold the WWE and Intercontinental Championships simultaneously. One of the most captivating stars to ever grace a squared circle. The legend, The Ultimate Warrior. Warrior makes his first appearance in WWE in nearly two decades the night before WrestleMania to take his rightful spot in the Hall of Fame.
► ENZO AMORE W/ BIG CASS DEF. HEATH SLATER, JUSTIN GABRIEL, FANDANGO AND DAMIEN SANDOW TO RETAIN THE HARDCORE CHAMPIONSHIP: Perhaps Enzo Amore's biggest challenge yet as the Hardcore Champion as he took on nearly everybody who he has defended the title against since reintroducing the 24/7 rule. The very first thing that Damien Sandow, Fandango, Justin Gabriel and Heath Slater did was head to ringside and ambush Big Cass, eliminating Enzo's equalizer. At one point, Sandow delivered a Razor's Edge to Enzo onto two chairs, Sandow covering him before Fandango broke up the fall. Fandango covered Enzo, only for Gabriel to break it up. Slater interrupted Gabriel's pin attempt, the four challengers then attacking each other. Slater headed outside and pulled out a broom of all things, striking Gabriel, Sandow and Fandango with it. Slater then played air guitar with the broom before getting set to finish off Enzo with it. Slater missed his shot, Enzo grabbing the end of the broom and lifting it up, thus hitting Slater below the belt with it. Enzo took the broom and broke it over Slater's back before rolling him up with a small package to get the win. Enzo rose to his feet, taking back the Hardcore Championship while Cass rolled into the ring and took Slater out with a Big Boot as payback for his part in the attack at the start of the match. Cass picked Enzo up, the duo celebrating with the WWE Universe. Soon, Enzo's music would silence as a buzzing sound was heard in the Nutter Center. Enzo and Cass looked around for the noise's source before seeing a drone flying towards them. Several fans in attendance popped wildly as they recognized the drone... Vanguard 1. "No. Freaking. Way," Corey Graves said while Enzo and Cass stared at Vanguard 1 in disbelief. "WWE Universe! I knew you'd come!" said a voiceover from Matt Hardy that played through Vanguard. The audience began chanting, "Delete!" at the top of their lungs, the Hardcore Champion still stunned at what was transpiring. "Yes, Enzo Amore! It is I, the king of the Hardy castle, notifying you of an crucial occurrence that you must be aware of at once! After searching for days for my broken brilliance's new destination, I have arrived where the seven deities guided me towards... HOME! And not only have I been stationed here in the WWE to carry out their requests, but I have set my sights on a particular championship title that you possess, Enzo! You have made a mockery of the English language, and on Sunday night, I make a mockery out of your championship reign when I DELETE it! DELETE! DELETE! DELETE!" Hardy shouted continuously while Vanguard 1 flew away from the scene. Sunday at the Royal Rumble, Enzo puts the Hardcore Championship on the line against the most unlikely of challengers, 'Broken' Matt Hardy!
Returning to Monday Night RAW, a recap of the previous segment was shown. After Enzo Amore successfully defended his Hardcore Championship against four other competitors, he was confronted by 'Broken' Matt Hardy via Vanguard 1, the former Tag Team Champion making his presence felt in WWE for the first time in nearly four years. Hardy noted that he would be making his return this Sunday night at the Royal Rumble, challenging Enzo for his Hardcore Title.
In the arena, SmackDown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon was shown in the ring along with the official tumbler that contained entry numbers for the Royal Rumble match on Sunday. Shane greeted the WWE Universe once again tonight, telling everybody that with his new position of power, he wanted to ensure that for one particular superstar, there will be no funny business with his involvement in the Royal Rumble match. "What I'm asking for right now is for Derrick Bateman to come down to this ring, please," Shane said, the fans in attendance booing at the mention of Bateman. The lights soon dimmed as Bateman's entrance music sounded, arguably the most despised man on the WWE roster making his way down to the squared circle. Bateman, who defeated Shane at Survivor Series and took him out the following night, met the SmackDown Live Commissioner face-to-face, refusing to take the seat that Shane offered him. Bateman remained silent for a minute, Shane stating that he would never put it past Bateman to do something 'scummy' because that's how he's made his name in the professional wrestling industry. "You still have people on the inside who are willing to go to bat for you, I'm aware of that. Meaning that you can easily manipulate the system and get whichever number in the Royal Rumble you'd like. Not thirty because that belongs to Kevin Owens, but maybe you had twenty-nine on your mind. Or twenty-seven since history puts that number on a pedestal. My point is you're not even going to get the chance to take the easy way out because you're going to draw your number right now in front of the entire WWE Universe," Shane said, the audience approving of his decision. Bateman's facial expression didn't change to that of anger. He kept a blank face while staring at Shane, complying since he knew that with Shane in power and him not, he couldn't fight 'Shane-O-Mac' on the order. Shane began spinning the tumbler, stopping after about six seconds. He opened the door to the tumbler, allowing Bateman to put his hand in and pull out a number. Bateman opened the capsule and looked at the number, no one certain of exactly where he was on the one through thirty scale since he didn't appear to be angry nor happy. "Is that number good enough for you, Bateman? Are you going to file a complaint against me because of this? Do you want to take another cinderblock to my head?" Shane asked, purposely trying to get under the skin of Bateman. "... Just remember this, Shane. Your dad tried to stop me from even entering this match... So imagine how stupid he's going to look when I leave the Royal Rumble as the WWE Universal Champion." Bateman was about to leave the ring when Shane stopped him, the SmackDown Live Commissioner asking if he wanted to stick around, "Because there's one other superstar who I've invited to pick his number right now..." After a few seconds of silence, the entrance music of Brock Lesnar hit to one of the loudest responses of the evening. Finally, Bateman's facial expression changed as his eyes and mouth widened. Lesnar, who was wearing a walking boot on the ankle that Bateman targeted last week, made his way out to the stage along with Paul Heyman. Lesnar and Heyman made their way down to the ring, Bateman having exited through the audience at that point. Lesnar stepped into the ring and looked out at Bateman, who chose to watch from a distance. 'The Beast Incarnate' taunted Bateman and challenged him to get into the ring, but the latter chose to wait until Sunday to be in the same ring as him. Heyman took the microphone that Bateman left behind, waiting until Lesnar had picked his number before speaking. "You're probably very, very shocked right about now, aren't you, Derrick? Last week, you did what the average WWE superstar wouldn't even think of attempting. You took the fight to Brock Lesnar and you came this close to getting the better of him. Or rather, you thought that you came close because the last time anybody saw my client, he was being taken away on a stretcher. You had every right to feel like you were on top of the world, but now, reality is hitting you. You're going to find out the hard way, Derrick, that even on one leg, Brock Lesnar is still the baddest mother f'er on the planet! You sealed your fate and on Sunday night, Brock Lesnar is going to eviscerate you! Brock Lesnar is going to conquer you! Brock Lesnar is going to take your ass on a one way trip to Suplex City and crush all of your dreams of main eventing WrestleMania because there is only one man, NO! Forget that! There is only one beast who is walking out of Pittsburgh this Sunday night as the WWE Universal Champion and his name is BROCK! LESNAR!" Lesnar smirked when seeing his number, Heyman doing the same when he saw it. The two of them continued to stare down Bateman from a distance, his attempt to eliminate 'The Beast Incarnate' from the equation rendered useless. If Bateman wants to become the first-ever WWE Universal Champion, he'll have to go through Lesnar Sunday night at the Royal Rumble.
► THE NEW DAY W/ XAVIER WOODS DEF. WWE TAG TEAM CHAMPIONS THE ALPHA WOLVES IN MATCH 4 IN THE BEST-OF-SEVEN SERIES: The Best-of-Seven Series for the WWE Tag Team Championships continued as Eddie Edwards was now fully recovered from an ankle injury he suffered a few weeks back. Edwards' recovery didn't stop New Day from targeting his injury, though. Towards the conclusion of the match, Xavier Woods stepped onto the ring apron, playing Francesca as loudly as he could to provide the distraction. The Alpha Wolves delivered simultaneous Superkicks to him, but Edwards seemed to have used his bad ankle without thinking it through. Big E slid into the ring and took the champions out with a Clotheslines, following up by placing Edwards onto his shoulder for the Midnight Hour. Kofi Kingston got the cover and the victory for New Day. Kofi and Big E helped Woods to his feet, the trio ecstatically dancing and twerking on the stage in celebration. Not only do they still lead the series, but now, they are only one match away from becoming the WWE Tag Team Champions. If Edwards and Richards want to hold onto their titles, they'll have to overcome a 3-1 deficit.
At this time, the entrance music of AJ Lee hit as the WWE Women's Champion made her way down to the ring, skipping of course, while the fans in Dayton went wild for the superstar who will put her title on the line this Sunday against Alexa Bliss. Once in the ring, AJ took a microphone and said that after what happened last between herself and Alexa, they won't be allowed to be in the same arena until the Royal Rumble in six days. "Which is a shame because all I want right now is to grab 'Ms. Bliss' by her head, slam it into the ground and make the rest of her hair red. It's funny, really. Up until this point in my career, I was always the up and coming underdog who had something to prove against a veteran talent. Now, I'm the one who has some rookie trying to make her name at my expense. Alexa's been here for about a minute and she thinks she runs the women's division. Alexa, wherever you are, let me reiterate what I said to you at TLC before you fell to your demise..." AJ said before she was cut off by Alexa Bliss, who appeared on the titantron via satellite from a hotel room in Pittsburgh. "No, don't mind me, AJ. Go ahead. Say whatever you need to. Pretend I'm not even there because if I was, you'd be on the mat, begging me not to take your Women's Title." AJ laughed off Alexa's comment before turning her attention to the tron. "... Like I said at TLC, get out of my division. You don't belong in this ring, Alexa, let alone in a WWE Women's Championship match against the very best that this company has to offer." Alexa responded with, "You can keep telling that to yourself. You can keep undermining me. That's what Sofia Cortez did and I've beaten her twice because of it. And don't act like you haven't forgotten what I did to you three weeks ago. While you were being strapped to a stretcher, I added insult to injury and made it clear to you that this is actually my division. You had a great 2013, sure, but in 2014, I'm the one who calls the shots. I'm the biggest star in the women's division and after Sunday, I'll have the title to prove that." "Congratulations, Alexa. You hit a move on me while I was already knocked out after being put through a table by Bray Wyatt. Bravo! Just... Bravo!" AJ said while sarcastically clapping. "And how did you follow up on that the next week? You hijacked a classroom and made little kids say over and over, 'AJ equals bad.' Um... Sure. Yeah, absolutely. I'm a bad person and I own up to that, but look at where that's gotten me. I have everything I've ever wanted because I don't give a damn. Whenever I beat Paige, Sofia and Kaitlyn, I didn't try to paint them as the bad guys because we're ALL terrible people, Alexa. But not only does, 'AJ equal bad.' AJ also equals what you'll never be: champion." AJ then told Alexa that the three women she just mentioned, those being Paige, Sofia and Kaitlyn, all have two things in common. "I beat them and they got hurt. Get ready to join the club, 'Ms. Bliss.'" AJ put her microphone, having said her part. However, the challenger was not yet finished. "Exactly why do you think you're better than me, AJ? Huh? Because you know what it's like to have barbed wire and thumbtacks lodged into your skin? That doesn't make you better. That makes you stupid. I have a WWE Women's Championship match at the Royal Rumble and I got there without needing to mutilate myself. The only thing that you have over me is the admiration of the WWE Universe, something I don't care about one bit. If they want to boo me because I'd like to make it to thirty without needing a wheelchair, by all means, boo me. They don't know my hardships. They don't know what I've had to overcome to get to where I am. And I thought that for sure that you, AJ, would understand mental anguish. Seeing as how you grew up in poverty and have been on the grind that would be a nightmare for just about anyone. I am going to become the WWE Women's Champion because I have to. It's the only way to make enduring the things that I have worth it. I've beaten myself up enough throughout my whole life, so don't expect me to let you and your fists do the same to me on Sunday. If an eating disorder couldn't kill me, you sure as hell won't." Alexa Bliss, who appeared to be on the verge of tears, ripped off her microphone and exited the camera shot, AJ shown with a blank expression in the ring. This Sunday, Alexa Bliss has her first one-on-one Women's Title opportunity against AJ Lee at the Royal Rumble. Will the reign of AJ continue, or is the division about to get 'Blissed'?
Returning from the commercial break, the traditional 'By the Number' victory for the Royal Rumble match was shown. With an instrumental version of Aloe Blacc's "The Man" playing in the background, the statistics of the Rumble match since its inception in 1988 were shown, ranging from the total number of participants to the number of eliminations. Other highlights included Kane's record eleven eliminations, number twenty-seven producing four winners, and number one resulting in three superstars achieving their dreams. For seven years, Rey Mysterio held the record for the longest time spent in a Royal Rumble until last year when Daniel Bryan surpassed him to win the whole thing. "This year, the stakes are much different. Not only will the winner headline WrestleMania 30, but they will also be named the first-ever WWE Universal Champion." That voiceover led into "Black Honey" by Thrice while clips of the participants this year were shown. Brock Lesnar, Cody Rhodes, Derrick Bateman, Randy Orton, Kevin Owens, Bobby Roode, Chris Jericho, Christian, The Wyatt Family... The list goes on and on of superstars who are looking to etch their name into history. The only thing that's certain is that on Sunday night, twenty-nine superstars will be thrown over the top rope... And one will be the Universal Champion and go on to main event the biggest WrestleMania of all-time.
Prior to the start of the main event, it was announced that Match 5 in the Best-of-Seven Series between The Alpha Wolves and The New Day will take place on the Royal Rumble Kickoff Show this Sunday night on the WWE Network. And this time, if New Day are victorious, they will win the series and become the brand new WWE Tag Team Champions.
► RANDY ORTON DEF. KEVIN OWENS VIA DISQUALIFCATION: An absolutely electric main event that saw arguably the odds-on favorite on Sunday given his entry number, Kevin Owens, against a man who has a Royal Rumble victory to his name already, Randy Orton. Both Owens and Orton were desperate to pick up a huge measure of momentum heading into Sunday. Owens attempted to deliver the Pop Up Powerbomb, but Orton was able to land on his feet behind Owens. When 'The Prizefighter' turned around, Orton planted him with a Scoop Slam! Orton began coiling for the RKO when Bobby Roode ran into the ring and attacked 'The Viper,' letting out his frustrations after losing to Cody Rhodes earlier in the evening. Speaking of Rhodes, it didn't take long for the 'Prince of Pro Wrestling' to make the save and go after Roode. Rhodes placed 'The Glorious One' in a corner and unloaded with right hand strikes until he was attacked from behind by Adam Cole, a man who believes he is being overlooked in the discussion for potential Universal Champions. Cole threw Rhodes onto the ground and stomped away on him until Cole's adversary, Chris Jericho, entered the picture. Jericho caught Cole with an Enziguri, 'Y2J' standing in the ring while Orton and Rhodes got up off of the canvas. The three of them glared at each other before noticing that Owens was getting back up. Jericho delivered a Codebreaker to Owens, Rhodes following up with the Disaster Kick. Finally, the groggy Owens became the victim of an RKO! Orton rose to his feet, staring at Jericho and Rhodes. Three of the WWE Universe's favorites to win the Royal Rumble match on Sunday made it clear to each other that they intend on making history this Sunday night.
After the lights came back on, the trio of Paige, Luke Harper and Erick Rowan were shown in the ring! Paige went after Rhodes, attempting to gouge his eyes out while Harper and Rowan ambushed Orton and Jericho respectively. Rowan took out Jericho with a Spinning Heel Kick, while a Lariat from Harper was enough to keep Orton down. Paige released her grip on Rhodes' eyes, who was blinded for the time being. Paige shouted at Rowan to pick Jericho up, one of Bray Wyatt's followers obliging with Paige's request. Paige charged into Jericho with a Bicycle Knee, rendering 'Y2J' unconscious before she ordered Harper to pick Orton up. Paige had 'The Viper' right where she wanted him, wasting no time to give him a Bicycle Knee as well. Lastly, Rhodes tried using to ropes to help him to his feet since he was still unable to see. Rhodes got back up, but dropped to one knee. That gave Paige the opening she needed to drive her knee into his jaw. Rhodes, Orton and Jericho were left laying on the canvas, Harper and Rowan kneeling before 'The Anti-Diva.' The closing image of Monday Night RAW was the lifeless eyes of Paige before the signature of The Wyatt Family hit for the final time tonight.
Will Sunday be a repeat of what had just transpired? Is WWE Universal Champion and WrestleMania headliner, Paige, actually going to happen?
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Post by tg11 on Dec 31, 2016 9:48:23 GMT -5
- Since Shane is the Smackdown Live Commissioner it only begs the question of who will be named the Smackdown General Manager? Because we know that Stephanie is the RAW Commissioner and Cueto is the RAW GM and Allie I don't know what she is is she a Personal Assistant to both Stephanie and Dario? Or is she a Personal Assistant to only one of them? Vince obviously wants to pit his own children against each other so that is why he named them both Commissioners of the respective brands
- Seeing Bryan take out both Miz the WWE United States Champion and his now former best friend now turned bitter rival Austin Aries and standing tall in the middle of that ring I wonder if Bryan will walk out the new WWE United States Champion at the Royal Rumble pay per view? I mean considering these 3 men have to face other in a Triple Threat Match for the WWE United States Championship I wonder if all 3 men are also in the Royal Rumble Match as well? If they are then that means one of them could walk out WWE United States Champion but if they are in the Rumble Match then one of these 3 men could walk out a double champion if they win the Royal Rumble Match assuming Miz, Bryan and Aries are in it
- Cody Rhodes being the man to end Bobby Roode's undefeated streak here in WWE...that is huge especially considering the roll Roode has been on ever since coming into the WWE back at Concrete Jungle when he beat Cody Rhodes 1 on 1 he was winning match after match before this and even went on record saying that he was going to win the Royal Rumble Match hell Roode still can but then again so could Cody Rhodes and in this diary Cody when it comes to big match situations big match experience well Cody has an edge over Roode being a former WWE and World Heavyweight Champion but Cody Rhodes has never won the Royal Rumble Match in his career but could Rhodes win the whole thing this Sunday? It is possible I mean but it all comes down to luck of the draw what number will he draw though? Or what number will Roode draw in the Royal Rumble Match?
- The Revival beating Neville and Cesaro...yeah sure Dawson & Wilder they may have beaten Neville and Cesaro but in the Royal Rumble Match only one of them can win only one of them can become WWE Universal Champion not both of them so what if it comes down to just those 2 men in the Royal Rumble Match? Then it will be every man for himself that is what the Royal Rumble Match is all about no friends only foes with the winner headlining WrestleMania 30 in the main event as the WWE Universal Champion? And or what if Dawson eliminates Wilder from the match or vice versa that's something to think about
- Allie interacting with Shane I wonder what Stephanie and Dario will have to say about that? Bo Rotundo to me he has become nothing but a joke so I can't even take him seriously as far as the Royal Rumble Match is concerned he will break Santino's record or even come close to breaking it by being eliminated in seconds
- Ambrose beating Rollins...I mean I was pretty much expecting Rollins to win this match if not by cheating then by Triple H his mentor interfering on his behalf but Triple H was nowhere in sight which makes me wonder where Triple H even was during this match? Triple H has been mentoring Rollins he has been in his corner for a while now so it makes me wonder why Triple H wasn't at ringside for this match but the WWE Champion AJ Styles showing up during this contest I was expecting AJ to somehow interfere and cause a No Contest by laying out both Rollins and Ambrose but that didn't happen but with Ambrose winning this match could he win the WWE Championship this Sunday at the Royal Rumble PPV? Styles has to defend his title in a Triple Threat Match and he doesn't even have to be involved in the decision to lose his title because either Ambrose could pin Rollins or vice versa with Rollins pinning Ambrose and Styles could lose the title in either scenario and not to mention The Game The King of Kings Triple H he is a deciding factor in this match as well
- Strowman and Rusev's Over the Top Rope Challenge ending in a No Contest because of Baron Corbin interfering and eliminating both Strowman and Rusev from the Over the Top Rope Challenge by coming from the crowd and into the ring running at them both taking them both out by surprise and eliminating them that is a major statement made by Corbin if you ask me because if there was ever a man who could eliminate Strowman or even Rusev from the Royal Rumble Match this Sunday it is Baron Corbin but Corbin he seems dead set on becoming WWE Universal Champion but his man Bateman is in the Royal Rumble Match as well and can Corbin really eliminate Derrick Bateman from the match if it means winning the whole thing? Because it is every man for himself and Corbin do you think he would sacrifice a chance of headlining Mania in the main event for Bateman? I think not
- CM Punk yes he is the WWE Intercontinental Champion but how much longer can The Best in the World really remain champion? I mean he has to defend his title against Bray Wyatt at the Royal Rumble pay per view and not to mention Punk is less than 100 percent given the attacks by Wyatt, Harper, Rowan and Paige for weeks now so how can Punk even be sure that he will face Wyatt one on one at the PPV? Because we all know with Bray Wyatt his family won't be far behind they will obviously assist him in the match with Punk but mind games being played between both Punk and Wyatt but Wyatt definitely has the edge but will he walk out the new WWE Intercontinental Champion? Or will Punk somehow retain and continue to prove that he is The Best in the World?
- Warrior being the first inductee for the Class of 2014 I wonder which other superstars will join him in that class? I know Razor Ramon Scott Hall he will join him in this class and same with Jake The Snake Roberts but who else will be in this class is anyone's guess
- Enzo Amore continuing to prove that he will do anything to stay WWE Hardcore Champion I mean he has beaten not 1 not 2 not 3 but 4 men in the same match especially with the 24/7 rule being in tact he beats Heath Slater, Justin Gabriel, Fandango and Damien Sandow men who he's already beaten time and time again so I wonder if Enzo will get bigger and better competition? I mean Enzo he continues to prove that he is not only a fighting champion but he is defending that title night in night out and winning title defence after title defence so it begs the question of who will be able to beat him for that WWE Hardcore Championship? Cue the return the WWE return of Matt Hardy but not the regular Matt Hardy not the Version 1 Matt Hardy but Broken Matt Hardy showing up here back here in a WWE ring for the first time since 2010 but not as himself but in his Broken gimmick which was a TNA gimmick but since TNA is now property of WWE he can show up as Broken Matt Hardy and with him challenging Enzo Amore for the WWE Hardcore Championship and that match happening at the 2014 Royal Rumble pay per view it makes me wonder if we could be looking at the next WWE Hardcore Champion?
- Bateman I wonder what number he drew for the Royal Rumble Match? Knowing Brock Lesnar he either drew number #27, #28 or #29 if anything while Bateman if I had to predict his number he has #1 or #2 or #3 or #4 or #5 for the Royal Rumble Match he has an early entry number that is what I think and why I say that? Because Bateman didn't look happy or even angry at all so it makes me wonder if he doesn't care but Bateman if he has an early entry number he is going to have to last a damn near long time especially if he wants to win the Royal Rumble Match and headline Mania as the WWE Universal Champion but seeing Brock back I was literally shocked to see that considering what Bateman did to Brock last week I am even shocked that Lesnar is back here but it goes back to the credo of Lesnar is not a mere mortal he is not just an average man he's a Beast and what happens when a Beast is wounded? A beast becomes even more unhinged than ever before so Bateman and everybody else should look out
- New Day winning yet another match in this Best of 7 series beating the WWE Tag Team Champions The Alpha Wolves Eddie Edwards & Davey Richards...I mean I wonder if this means New Day will become the WWE Tag Team Champions? I mean look at this they are up 3 matches to 1 they have a 3-1 lead in this series like compare it to an NBA, NHL or MLB team being down 3 games to 1 in a playoff series and they are the defending champions and have to defend their titles and are 1 match from losing it all but the team who is down mounts a comeback sometimes but not all the time and for a tag team like The Alpha Wolves to come back into this series being down 3-1 that means they have to win the next 2 matches if they even want to stand a chance in this series hell they have to win 3 matches in a row to retain their WWE Tag Team Championships and that is no easy feat especially with a team like New Day who have virtually been unbeatable since becoming a team
- Alexa Bliss and the WWE Women's Champion AJ Lee going back and forth with each other I was surprised given the fact that both of these women are not only fighting each other this Sunday for the WWE Women's Championship but you could feel the emotion here the hatred between these 2 women the tension you could almost cut it through with a knife because they both despise each other in the worst way and this feud this rivalry has become so very personal and the fact that this match could end up being a classic I know I definitely want to see it
- Loved the Royal Rumble By the Numbers segment that is always my favourite segment showcasing the Royal Rumble and its history but also showing the current crop of superstars who will be in the Royal Rumble Match this Sunday only one of them can win the Royal Rumble Match and headline WrestleMania 30 as the WWE Universal Champion but the question remains Who Will Be "The One"?
- Orton in the main event beating Owens all be it by DQ because of Roode getting involved in this match and then it turning into a 2 on 1 situation until Rhodes comes into even the odds and then Cole showing up to make it a 3 on 2 situation until Jericho shows up to even the odds at 3 on 3 and then it turning into a melee since all 6 men will be in the Royal Rumble Match and then it ending in Owens taking a Codebreaker, Disaster Kick and an RKO on top of it...I mean seeing the faces stand tall momentarily I was expecting them to turn on each other making a statement before this Sunday but then the lights go out the Wyatt signature goes out and the lights come back on and The Wyatts are in the ring as they take out Orton, Rhodes and Jericho with Paige directing traffic and Paige, Harper and Rowan standing tall I mean The Wyatt Family they could be the biggest threat in the Royal Rumble Match but then again what if they all draw different numbers? They obviously won't all be there at the same time so how can they have any back up?
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Post by Planktung on Jan 1, 2017 13:28:35 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jan 1, 2017 14:07:35 GMT -5
That is huge Cena returning to the Royal Rumble pay per view especially on the Kickoff Show I wonder if that means Cena will end up as one of the surprise entrants in the Royal Rumble Match?
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Post by Planktung on Jan 8, 2017 23:34:56 GMT -5
January 22nd, 2014 - Former NXT Tag Team Champions, The Addiction, kicked off tonight's episode of NXT by appearing before the fans for the first time since Concrete Jungle. Full Sail gave Christopher Daniels and Frankie Kazarian dueling chants of, "Ricochet!" and, "Uhaa Nation!" to get under their skins. The duo vowed to prove at NXT TakeOver: R-Evolution that Ricochet and Uhaa's victory over them was nothing more than a fluke. "They got lucky against us. Any pair of scrubs can win the lottery if you give them a chance, but when you really put them to the test, that's when their luck runs out. At TakeOver, we want to raise the stakes a bit. Ricochet and Uhaa Nation beat us once, but we guarantee that they cannot beat us twice in one night. Here's our challenge, boys. TakeOver. NXT Tag Team Championships. Two out of Three Falls. When you're ready to step up to the plate against the best tag team in the bu-si-ness, you know where to find us. As for the rest of you... You have permission to worship us... Now!"
MATT RIDDLE DEF. JEFF COBB IN A ROYAL RUMBLE QUALIFIER: The two winners of Tough Enough shocked the NXT Universe by putting on arguably one of the best matches to ever take place in Full Sail. Riddle leaped into Cobb with a Crossbody, only for Cobb to catch him and deliver a nasty Powerslam. Cobb lifted Riddle up for a Gutwrench Suplex, but Riddle was able to land on his feet. Riddle connected with a Bicycle Kick before planting Cobb onto the back of his head with a German Suplex. Riddle held onto Cobb to carry out a second German Suplex, transitioning into what initially looked like a pin attempt. Riddle, however, cinched in a Kneebar, applying all the pressure that he could to force Cobb to submit. Riddle celebrated his massive victory as he would now be heading into the Royal Rumble match on Sunday for the WWE Universal Championship. After Riddle left, Cobb rose to his feet in the ring and received a standing ovation form the NXT Universe.
A promo aired at this time for Eli Drake, the self-proclaimed 'Namer of Dummies.' Eli Drake arrives at NXT, soon.
KYLE O'REILLY DEF. ANGELO DAWKINS: Trying to bounce back from his loss to Adam Cole at NXT TakeOver: Forever, Kyle O'Reilly caught Angelo Dawkins with a Rolling Elbow when Dawkins charged towards him. O'Reilly applied a Guillotine Choke, managing to make Dawkins tap out in ten seconds.
Graphics were shown to promote two of next week's match-ups. Finn Balor and Hideo Itami compete in a rematch from WWE/NXT Unison, and for the first time ever, NXT Champion Sami Zayn goes one-on-one with Pentagon.
THE LUCHA DRAGONS DEF. MICHAEL BENNETT & CHRIS MASTERS W/ MARIA KANELLIS: While Kyle O'Reilly was able to rebound from his TakeOver: Forever loss, the same could not be said for Michael Bennett and Chris Masters as they fell to The Lucha Dragons, Kalisto and Fenix. Post-match, Bennett lashed out at Masters, who took the pinfall in the match. Maria attempted to make peace between the two superstars, but Masters left the ring, completely ignoring the irate Bennett.
New backstage correspondent, Charly Caruso, was standing by with 'The Perfect Ten' Tye Dillinger. Charly asked Dillinger how he plans to make 2014 his year in NXT. As Dillinger was answering, arrogantly as one would expect, Kyle O'Reilly happened to walk by. "Um... Hello? You just ruined my shot!" Dillinger said to O'Reilly, who seemed to not have even noticed the interview going on. "Do you have any idea who I am? I'm Tye Dillinger! The future of NXT! And you are...?" Dillinger asked. "I'm the guy who just won his match in ten seconds, so maybe they should call me 'The Perfect Ten,'" O'Reilly said to Dillinger before leaving the scene.
Closing out NXT was the official contract signing between NXT Women's Champion, Bayley, and Emma for their title match at NXT TakeOver: R-Evolution in four weeks. The two met in the ring and seemed to be on the same page. They both respected one another and everything they've accomplished, but when February 19th rolls around, it's all about the NXT Women's Championships. "I spent almost a year on the shelf, Bayley. And in that time, it was you and Sasha Banks who took this division to a whole new level. You made me proud to say that I'm an NXT superstar... So let's make these people proud to call themselves the NXT Universe," Emma said to Bayley as the Full Sail fans applauded her. After the contract was signed, Bayley and Emma shook hands, only to be interrupted by Femme Fatales, the duo of Billie Kay and Peyton Royce. The two of them called Bayley and Emma 'predictable,' calling both of them 'weak.' "Oh, I respect you. I respect you two. Let's be friends!" Billie said in a childish, mocking tone. "This division doesn't need people like you two at the top. They need superstars like us... And we'll show everybody why right now." Billie and Peyton stepped onto the ring apron as Bayley moved the table out of the way, she and Emma ready to take on Femme Fatales. It was at that moment when Emma took the microphone to give one last statement.
"Before this whole thing escalates, I do have one thing that I need to say to you two... Femme Fatales forever."
As soon as Emma finished, she leveled Bayley in the head with the microphone! The fans gasped as Emma stomped away on Bayley, Billie and Peyton soon joining her. Emma had set up Bayley and now, Femme Fatales were able to have their way with the NXT Women's Champion. At one point, Becky Lynch ran down to the ring to make the save, but she, too, was beaten down by the Australian trio. Emma and Peyton held Becky up and allowed Billie to deliver a Big Boot to her. Emma then brought the table for the contract signing back into the center of the ring, she and Peyton placed Bayley on Billie's shoulder. The three of them gave Bayley a Triple Powerbomb through the table, Emma standing over the Women's Champion while raising her title. "This is my title, Bayley! My! Title!" Emma shouted at her before Billie and Peyton raised her arms, the now three-piece Femme Fatales making it clear that Bayley doesn't run the NXT women's division. They do.
January 24th, 2014 - Kicking off Friday Night SmackDown was the arrival of The New Day, the trio who are one match away from becoming the brand new WWE Tag Team Champions. Ahead of Match 5 in the Best of Seven Series on the Royal Rumble Kickoff Show, Kofi Kingston, Big E and Xavier Woods unveiled to the WWE Universe their, "Latest, greatest and most delicious" marketing strategy yet. Woods removed a cloth over a podium in the ring to reveal New Day's very own cereal, Booty-Os. "They make sure you ain't booty!" the three of them said in unison before the WWE Tag Team Champions, The Alpha Wolves, came out. Eddie Edwards and Davey Richards made it clear to New Day that they're not looking at the team that they want to face on Sunday. "You guys already think you have this series in the bag. You're out here dancing. Making jokes. Showing off cereal. Not a single one of you are focused. We want The New Day at their very best because you guys are getting The Alpha Wolves at their very best this Sunday." New Day put their hands over their ears, signaling that they didn't care for anything The Alpha Wolves had to say. That was when Richards grabbed the box of Booty-Os and threw it into the audience. "That was a prototype! It hasn't been taste-tested yet! Whoever caught that, you're gonna get diarhea!" Big E shouted before turning around and receiving Double Superkicks from the champions! Kingston and Woods backed away from the ring, grabbing their much larger teammate by his legs and pulling him out to ringside. Richards and Edwards stood tall in the ring, holding up the WWE Tag Team Titles that they defend this Sunday during the Royal Rumble Kickoff.
RANDY ORTON DEF. ADAM COLE W/ LANA: Looking for his second Royal Rumble victory on Sunday night, Randy Orton was able to put away Adam Cole, a superstar who believes he's going to shock the world in the Rumble match, after a grueling contest with an RKO. Orton posed for the fans post-match while Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves wondered if Orton truly is more focused on becoming WWE Universal Champion than he is getting his hands on Kevin Owens, who enters the Royal Rumble on Sunday at number thirty.
HEATH SLATER & JUSTIN GABRIEL DEF. DAMIEN SANDOW & FANDANGO IN A ROYAL RUMBLE QUALIFIER: After these four superstars failed to capture the Hardcore Championship on Monday, SmackDown Live Commissioner, Shane McMahon, gave them the opportunity to qualify for the Royal Rumble match on Sunday with only a few spots left in the contest. After Justin Gabriel delivered a 450 Splash onto Fandango, Heath Slater tagged himself in and kicked Gabriel in the ribs. Slater got the cover on Fandango to get the pinfall for himself. "Universal Champion, baby!" Slater shouted on the stage while playing air guitar.
At this time, the assistant to the RAW staff, Allie, made her way down to the ring to carry out a task that RAW's Commissioner, Stephanie McMahon, forced her to. Allie took a deep breath and paused several times, clearly nervous about whatever her order was. "If... If AJ Lee could please come to the ring, Ms. Stephanie would really... She would really appreciate that." The WWE Women's Champion soon skipped down to the ring, standing across from Allie, who was still feeling very uneasy. After struggling to get her words out, Allie told AJ that per Stephanie's order, if she is disqualified or counted out at the Royal Rumble, Alexa Bliss will become the new Women's Champion. The audience didn't agree with Stephanie's call, though AJ simply smiled at Allie. She kept the smile on her face as she headed out to ringside, looking underneath the ring and bringing out a lead pipe. AJ stepped back into the ring and grazed the pipe against Allie's face, the RAW assistant trembling in fear at the thought of what might happen to her. AJ reeled back with the pipe, Allie screaming in horror. She dropped her microphone and ran out of the ring, AJ letting go of the pipe. The Women's Champion picked her title back up and stood tall with it, not fazed at all by the new stipulation for Sunday night. If AJ gets herself disqualified or counted out, then she will lose the WWE Women's Title to Alexa Bliss at the Royal Rumble
BARON CORBIN DEF. R-TRUTH: After making it clear to Braun Strowman and Rusev on Monday night that he is the real biggest threat in the Royal Rumble match, Baron Corbin put R-Truth away with the End of Days to further his case. Post-match, Tom Philips stopped Corbin on the stage to ask what would happen if the Royal Rumble match were to come down to himself and Derrick Bateman. Corbin explained that he and Bateman understand that the Rumble match is every superstar for themselves, which is why they reached a mutual agreement to go their own paths. "If the Rumble comes down to just the two of us, I'm gonna throw him over the top rope just like he would to me. If it's me and Brock Lesnar, he's getting thrown over. Rusev. Braun Strowman. Randy Orton. Cody Rhodes. No matter who is in that ring with me, they're going to meet their end of days because I'm walking out of Pittsburgh as the first-ever WWE Universal Champion!"
An interview that Michael Cole conducted oversees with Paige's mother, Saraya Knight, aired at this time. Saraya explained that after Survivor Series, nobody in her family could get a hold of Paige. "We didn't know where she was. Nobody in WWE knew what happened to her, and when you have no idea where your daughter is or if she's even okay, you feel hopeless. My world shattered, and then when she was finally seen again..." Saraya stated that Bray Wyatt ruined her life. He ruined her whole family because he took their little girl and turned her into some kind of monster. "This Sunday night, your daughter is going to be in the Royal Rumble match and if she wins, not only will she be the first-ever WWE Universal Champion, but she'll also become the first woman in history to main event WrestleMania. Where do you stand on all of this? Do you want Paige to win the Rumble?" Cole asked. Saraya said that Sunday could be the best thing to ever happen to her, but also the worst. "I don't want Bray Wyatt to have more power on top of what he already has, and that's what Paige becoming champion would do for him. At the same time... That's my daughter. The girl who I raised might actually be the first woman to ever win the Royal Rumble, hold a top championship and main event WrestleMania. Look at the people who have done that. Hogan, Rock, Austin... Paige. When we sent her off to America years ago, none of us could have ever imagined that. But now... It might really happen. She can become the biggest star ever in wrestling on Sunday, but she would do it as a Wyatt Family member. I really don't know where my heart is because I want my daughter to have the world... But is that really my daughter out there?"
The video package that announced The Ultimate Warrior's Hall of Fame induction aired yet again. This time, it was confirmed that the second inductee into this year's class will be revealed on Sunday during the Royal Rumble.
WWE CHAMPION AJ STYLES, DEAN AMBROSE & DANIEL BRYAN VS. UNITED STATES CHAMPION THE MIZ W/ MARYSE, SETH ROLLINS & AUSTIN ARIES: Taking up a majority of the last hour was a star-studded main event to officially wrap up the build to the Royal Rumble. Towards the end of the bout, The Miz and Austin Aries got into an argument, which led to Daniel Bryan kicking them out of the ring. Bryan followed up with a Suicide Dive onto the both of them. He then tried to pick Miz up, who fought back with body shots. Aries went after Miz, the match imploding at that point as all three participants in the United States Title match on Sunday brawled into the backstage area. Back in the ring, Seth Rollins took a steel chair from ringside and went to work on both AJ Styles and Dean Ambrose, taking out the WWE Champion and the Manifest Destiny winner. After delivering Curb Stomps to both of them, Rollins took a microphone and the WWE Championship from the time keeper's area. 'The Architect of the Future' said that even though Triple H will be in his corner in forty-eight hours, his coronation as the face of the WWE will only come as a result of what he does to Styles and Ambrose in the Triple Threat match. Rollins stood over his two opponent while raising the WWE Title, a sight that very well could be repeated this Sunday at the Royal Rumble.
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Post by Planktung on Jan 8, 2017 23:35:19 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Jan 9, 2017 15:07:23 GMT -5
- The Alpha Wolves Eddie Edwards & Davey Richards the WWE Tag Team Champions are the ones with their backs against the wall they are down 3-1 in this series and all New Day have to do is win 1 more match and they are the WWE Tag Team Champions they have all the momentum on their side while Edwards & Richards they have to win like 3 matches in a row just to retain their titles so it should be interesting to see how they can handle the adversity of being down in this series can they be the comeback team to come back from such tremendous odds to win a series? I mean in sports a team coming back from 3-1 to win a series doesn't happen that often
- Orton has got to be considered one of the favourites in the 2014 Royal Rumble Match...Orton is not only a veteran he is a former WWE and World Heavyweight Champion multiple times the man has virtually done it all hell he has even won a Royal Rumble Match back in 2009 so he has got to be considered a favorite to win the 2014 Royal Rumble Match he has Royal Rumble Match experience and not to mention he has been on a virtual roll in this diary winning match after match and he is so dead set on winning this Royal Rumble Match that I think this may be Orton at his best because when Orton is focused and on his best he is damn near hard to stop and with him beating Adam Cole it basically just proves that Orton could in fact win it all but in order to do that he not only has to go through Cole and Owens but he has to go through everyone else to win the Royal Rumble Match but Orton has got to be considered a favorite
- Slater & Gabriel as the latest names to qualify for the Royal Rumble Match by beating Sandow & Fandango...I mean that is almost the full field of superstars I mean with these 2 qualifying they do have Royal Rumble Match experience but I don't see them doing much if at all
- AJ Lee the WWE Women's Champion having the champions advantage taken away from her per order of Stephanie...I think that is nothing more than blatant favouritism on Stephanie's part and why? Stephanie obviously doesn't want AJ Lee as WWE Women's Champion and will do anything to make sure that she isn't even if that means making sure Alexa Bliss ends up as WWE Women's Champion but with AJ Lee since she can't get herself intentionally counted out or disqualified in order to retain her title does that hurt or help AJ? I mean AJ has shown in the past that she will do whatever it takes to win a match but then again Alexa Bliss has been on a roll for a while now so I think all the momentum has to be in the favor of Bliss here
- Baron Corbin beating R-Truth...Corbin has got to be considered a dark horse I wouldn't say that he is a favorite but he is a dark horse by far but considering what he did on Monday on RAW when he eliminated both Rusev and Strowman at the same time simultaneously by himself yeah he made an impact by doing that but can he really do that to every other superstar that will be in the Royal Rumble Match in order to walk out WWE Universal Champion? Besides what if it comes down to him and Bateman? Will it truly be every man for himself? I mean Corbin and Bateman are supposed to be friends right well Corbin is Bateman's heavy not his friend but you can expect these 2 to almost work together in the Royal Rumble Match but then again only one of them can walk out WWE Universal Champion but Corbin he is a former WWE Hardcore Champion and Corbin has all the makings of a future main event guy but I don't see it being his time quite yet...I can see Corbin having a good showing in the Royal Rumble Match but winning it I just can't see it happening
- Paige I can't see her winning the Royal Rumble Match but I can see her having a good showing in the Royal Rumble Match but as far as winning it I don't think she will and I'll tell you why...for the simple reason that I think her mother Saraya will somehow get involved in the match and Paige somehow ends up getting eliminated from behind by someone
- The 2nd member of the WWE Hall of Fame class who do I see joining The Ultimate Warrior in this class? I see it being either Jake The Snake Roberts or it ends up being Razor Ramon The Bad Guy Scott Hall being inducted as the 2nd inductee it is either one of them for sure
- The 6 man tag team main event ending in complete chaos I mean I obviously was expecting that given the fact that on the heel side you have the WWE United States Champion The Miz teaming up with one of his opponents one half of the Triple Threat Match for Miz's title Austin Aries and then you have Rollins...3 massive egos on 1 team obviously is not going to be a good mix and then on top of that on the babyface side you have Daniel Bryan the other half of the Triple Threat Match for the WWE United States Championship and he, Miz and Aries all brawling towards the back it was bound to happen sooner or later but then seeing Rollins lay out both the WWE Champion AJ Styles and Dean Ambrose both with Curb Stomps to end off the show...I mean Rollins he just may have all the momentum on his side given that he not only has Triple H his mentor in his corner at the Royal Rumble pay per view in the Triple Threat Match for the WWE Championship but then Rollins has been on a virtual roll on top of that which is why he has to be the favorite to walk out of the Royal Rumble PPV as WWE Champion
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Post by tg11 on Jan 10, 2017 13:10:07 GMT -5
Royal Rumble Match (WWE Universal Championship)- 2014 Royal Rumble Match winner and WWE Universal Champion Bobby Roode WWE Championship (Triple Threat Match)- AJ Styles (c) vs Dean Ambrose vs Seth Rollins w/Triple H- Winner: New WWE Champion Seth Rollins; Rollins pins Ambrose WWE Hardcore Championship- Enzo Amore (c) vs Broken Matt Hardy- Winner: New WWE Hardcore Champion Broken Matt Hardy WWE United States Championship (Triple Threat Match)- The Miz (c) w/Maryse vs Daniel Bryan vs Austin Aries- Winner: Still WWE United States Champion The Miz; Miz pins Bryan WWE Intercontinental Championship- CM Punk (c) vs Bray Wyatt- Winner: Still WWE Intercontinental Champion CM Punk WWE Women's Championship- AJ Lee (c) vs Alexa Bliss- Winner: New WWE Women's Champion Alexa Bliss WWE Tag Team Championship (Best of 7 Series)- New Day vs The Alpha Wolves (c)- Winners: The Alpha Wolves (series is 3-2)
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Post by Planktung on Jan 16, 2017 18:43:02 GMT -5
Following the signature WWE intro, members of the WWE Universe in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania were shown leaving the cold outside of the Consol Energy Center to step into potentially an even colder environment depending on who has their hand raised at the end of tonight's show as the WWE Universal Champion. In the arena, the first shot presented to the viewers on the WWE Network was the WrestleMania XXX sign that would be making its first appearance here tonight at the twenty-seventh annual Royal Rumble. Renee Young welcomed everybody to the Kickoff Panel that consisted of Michael Cole, Byron Saxton and the 2006 Royal Rumble winner, Rey Mysterio. "As evident by the giant sign looming over all of us, the Road to WrestleMania is officially underway," Renee stated, Cole commenting that this time of the year is always the most exciting for WWE. "The superstars become more motivated and determined, and the members of the WWE Universe are treated to some of the greatest moments in our history when WrestleMania season rolls around." Mysterio added that WrestleMania season holds a special place in his heart because eight years ago, he had his two career defining moments around this time. "Not only did I win the Royal Rumble match, but I became the World Heavyweight Champion at WrestleMania 22. Other than being a husband and father, those were the two proudest moments of my life and I'm very, very excited to see who is going to make history here tonight in the Rumble."
Saving the Royal Rumble match discussion for later on in the Kickoff Show, Renee Young brought up the topic of the WWE Women's Championship match. "The Crazy Chick vs. The Wicked Witch. Twist of Fate vs. Twisted Bliss. If Harley Quinn was a real person, she'd be in the front row here in Pittsburgh to watch AJ Lee vs. Alexa Bliss for the Women's Title," Renee said, asking the panelists for any and all thoughts regarding the match-up. Rey Mysterio started off by stating that he's aware that Alexa has cited him as one of her inspirations in professional wrestling. "And for that, I apologize," he joked to get a laugh from the panel. 'The Master of the 619' then got serious about the match, believing that Alexa may have a point when she says that AJ Lee is underestimating her. "The reason that many people have trouble taking Alexa Bliss seriously is because it wasn't too long ago when she was coming out to the ring dressed like a fairy. But there's no glitter or glitz to her anymore. She's proven that she can be just as cold-hearted and calculating as anyone else in the women's division." Byron Saxton pointed out that AJ might have Alexa edged out in terms of viciousness, which could lead to her downfall here tonight. "What we found out on SmackDown two nights ago changed everything that I thought about this match. If AJ is disqualified or counted out, she will lose the Women's Championship. Asking AJ to keep her emotions in check isn't going to happen and because of that, I strongly believe that Alexa is leaving Pittsburgh as the new champion," said Byron.
Backstage in the social media lounge, Tom Philips informed the viewers on the WWE Network that momentarily, he would be joined by one of the challengers in tonight's United States Championship match, Daniel Bryan. Philips encouraged the WWE Universe to send their questions to Bryan on Twitter by using the hashtag '#AskBryan.'
Returning to the panel for the Royal Rumble Kickoff, Renee Young looked at another championship match here tonight, this time for the Hardcore Championship. "In perhaps the most shocking bit of news to come thus far in 2014, Matt Hardy will be making his return to WWE after four years to challenge Enzo Amore." Michael Cole noted that while Hardy spent over a decade in WWE, this is a completely different entity who will be arriving in the Consol Energy Center to challenge for the Hardcore Title. "This isn't the Matt Hardy that I or anyone else in WWE knew. This is 'Broken' Matt Hardy. Somewhere along the way, Matt Hardy lost every bit of his sanity and as a result, we now have a nutjob whose goal is to 'delete' Enzo Amore's Hardcore Championship reign." Rey Mysterio echoed Cole's statement, reminding everyone of his history with Hardy. "I had my very first WrestleMania match against Matt. One of the biggest moments of my career came when I beat him for the Cruiserweight Title... But if I were up against this Matt Hardy, things probably wouldn't have gone my way." Byron Saxton asked Mysterio if that meant his prediction was going to Hardy, which he confirmed. Byron and Cole were on the same page as well in that 'Broken' Matty Hardy would walk away from the Royal Rumble as the new Hardcore Champion in his return match.
A promo was shown for the Royal Rumble, live tonight on Pay-Per-View and WWE Network.
Returning to the Royal Rumble Kickoff Show, Tom Philips was shown in the social media lounge with his guest, Daniel Bryan. After thanking Bryan for lending his time to the segment, Philips pulled up the first question from Twitter, which asked Bryan how he feels about not competing in the Royal Rumble match this year after winning it in 2013. "So, I've gotten this question many times since the WWE Universe realized that me challenging for the United States Title meant that I wouldn't be in the Royal Rumble. Would being in the match again this year have been cool? Sure, but last year, I left my mark on the match. I won it as the number one entrant. I set a new record for the longest time spent in the match. I eliminated The Rock at the very end to win it all. If I am to never compete in another Royal Rumble match, I'm more than okay with that being my legacy on this stage." The second question asked Bryan if he believed that being in the United States Title picture after capturing the World Heavyweight Championship last year at WrestleMania felt like a demotion in any way. "Oh, no. Of course not. Not at all and here's why. The United States Championship may not be on the same level as the WWE Championship or what the Universal Championship is going to become, but it's one of the richest prizes in all of professional wrestling. The lineage of the United States Title is literally a who's who of wrestlers. Harley Race, Ric Flair, Ricky Steamboat, Steve Austin, John Cena. It was the first title that I held in WWE and having the chance to recapture it is something I've had my sights on since the day I lost it three years ago. My focus right now isn't necessarily on making sure that I'm headlining WrestleMania again, but that I make the United States Title the most important championship in the company. It's not a demotion for me in the slightest." Lastly, a Twitter user asked Bryan if he has any tips for adjusting to a vegan lifestyle. Bryan smirked and looked at the question that was projected on the screen, taking his time to formulate an answer. "So... I've never said this publicly before, but I'm actually not a vegan anymore. What happened was that I developed a soy intolerance. Being a vegan is difficult to begin with, but being a vegan without soy is just... I couldn't do it anymore. But Allie is a vegan, so she can probably help you out more than I could." Philips shook Bryan's hand, thanking him for his time while wishing him luck tonight in the Triple Threat match for the United States Championship.
Sticking to the subject of the United States Title match, Renee Young asked the panel for any and all predictions concerning the Triple Threat match. Michael Cole said that a recurring theme for tonight's show is the lack of champion's advantage for several superstars. "We talked earlier about how AJ Lee doesn't have to actually be pinned or submitted to lose the WWE Women's Championship. It's the same story for The Miz. Daniel Bryan can defeat Austin Aries, or Austin Aries can defeat Daniel Bryan. In both of those scenarios, Miz loses his championship without being involved in the decision." Rey Mysterio responded to Cole by saying that while Miz definitely loses in that regard, he has the potential x-factor in all of this. "Maryse has played the biggest role in Miz' reign as the United States Champion. If not for her, he wouldn't even be the champion right now. There aren't any disqualifications in a Triple Threat match, making it all that much easier for her to give Miz all the leverage he needs to retain the United States Title. But... If there's anybody who can overcome odds at the Royal Rumble, as we all saw last year, it's Daniel Bryan." With Cole and Mysterio both siding with Bryan, Byron Saxton said that he believes Austin Aries will be the one to have his hand raised. "This is the biggest match of Aries' career. His debut on WWE Pay-Per-View and at the Royal Rumble, no less. Aries came to this company with one thing on his mind and that was to become a champion. If he was willing to throw away his friendship with Daniel Bryan, imagine what he'll do when the bell rings tonight and the United States Championship is up for grabs."
At the sound of one of WWE's most iconic theme songs, the Pittsburgh audience became split with cheers and jeers. 'The Face That Runs the Place' would soon make his way out to the stage with new blue and red-colored attire. John Cena motioned to the audience to get louder, accepting any reaction from the WWE Universe. "Steel City... I've been called 'The Man of Steel' before... I think this is gonna be a good night. Let's go to work," Cena said to the camera before running and sliding into the squared circle. Cena looked out into the sea of fans, waiting for the cue in his music to throw up the "A-Okay" hand gestures. He was handed a microphone, taking his time to speak as the passionate WWE Universe members expressed either their pleasure or displeasure to see him back after a six week absence. "Oh, come on, Pittsburgh! This is the start of the Road to WrestleMania! I know y'all got more in you, so let me hear it!" he shouted, the fans giving him exactly what he asked for. "And with that response, you all answered the question that I get asked time and time again. 'Why do you do what you do?' For reactions like that. Whether you're chanting 'Let's go, Cena!' or 'Cena sucks!' the WWE Universe is loud, passionate and dedicated. There's no other fanbase like you guys and I'm proud to come out here and entertain you guys for a living," said Cena, the fans who disapproved of him not changing their tone. "So... Why now? Why did I pick the Royal Rumble of all nights to come back? It's simple... I-"
"AWWWWWWW PITTSBURGH! DON'T YOU DARE BE SOUR! CLAP YOUR HANDS AND FEEL THE POWER!"
John Cena removed his hat and motioned his hand through his hair, looking down at the canvas with more a look of disappointment that rivaled any New England fan after their failed two-point conversion the week prior. The trio of Kofi Kingston, Big E and Xavier Woods made their way down to the ring, Kingston holding a box of the cereal that they introduced on SmackDown, Booty-Os. The New Day danced in a circle around Cena, mocking him after they defeated him in his last appearance at TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs. "John Cena, it's okay to tell these people the truth. The reason that you were gone for over a month was because at TLC, you got embarrassed like never before by The New Day!" Woods said, Big E and Kofi shaking their behinds at Cena. "And the reason you're at the Royal Rumble tonight is so you can get a front row seat to watch the crowning of The New Day as the brand new W! W! E! World! Tag! Team! Champions! And to show our appreciation for your acknowledgment that we're the strongest, most positive force in the industry today, we bring to you a gift." Big E then took the Booty-Os box and tried to hand it over to Cena. "What we have here, Cena," Kingston said, "Is the first official box of Booty-Os!" Big E made sure to note that unlike the prototype box they showed on SmackDown, this version, "Won't make you poop." Kingston told Cena that the reason they wanted to give him the very first box was because, "You need it more than anyone else since, you know... You're booty!" said Kingston, all three of them shouting the last phrase. Cena looked at the box, asking New Day if they were serious. "You guys got a victory over me. You're one match away from becoming Tag Team Champions, and to capitalize on all of that momentum... You made cereal? Maybe you guys should keep this box for yourselves because you're not just 'booty.' Y'all are a bunch of jackasses, too." Cena garnered a bit more cheers than before as New Day looked appalled by his comment. "And the reason I'm here tonight isn't to see you guys drop a 3-1 lead. I'm here because history is being made tonight and I want in on it. That's why I'm officially announcing that I will be entering the Royal Rumble match tonight, and I will leave Pittsburgh as the first-ever WWE Universal Champion!" New Day questioned Cena's status in the Royal Rumble match, saying that he can't just enter himself into the bout literally hours before it happens. "Just who do you think you are? Who? Who? Who? Who?" New Day asked, Cena giving them their answer. "I'm the guy who has carried this company on his back for the last twelve years. I'm 'The Face That Runs the Place' and by the end of tonight, I'm gonna be the WWE Universal Champion. Enough of this 'new era' stuff. I'm still alive and kicking, so I'm not going anywhere. The main event of WrestleMania is calling my name and I'll be there for the fourth straight year! You three say that I can't just enter myself into the Royal Rumble, well guess what? I just did. Why? Because I'm John Cena. Recognize!" Cena dropped his microphone and gave New Day the "You Can't See Me" gesture before leaving the ring to his theme music. John Cena will compete in the Royal Rumble match tonight, and 'The Face That Runs the Place' has guaranteed that he will become WWE Universal Champion!
Still disgusted over the treatment they received from John Cena, New Day remained in the ring as the entrance music of The Alpha Wolves sounded. The WWE Tag Team Champions made their way into the arena to a great response from Pittsburgh, Davey Richards and Eddie Edwards ready for the most important match of their careers. "This is the team that moved Wrestling Royalty out of the title picture. In their first match in NXT, they captured those Tag Team Titles, and they did the same at Unison to become WWE Tag Team Champions. The fact they're down 3-1 in this Best of Seven Series is beyond shocking and if The Alpha Wolves don't get their act together, this is the final time that we'll see them with those titles," Corey Graves said on commentary. Once in the ring, Richards and Edwards handed the Tag Team Championships over to the official, the titles being raised for the first time in this series. Never before have The Alpha Wolves been in a legitimate title defense against New Day, but now, the opportunity for Kofi Kingston, Big E and Xavier Woods to add the championships to their résumé was right in front of them. "This is it. It's win or go home for the Alpha Wolves. If they lose this match, New Day are the WWE Tag Team Champions," Mauro Ranallo stated one final time before the bell rang. Eddie Edwards and Kofi Kingston locked up, Kingston transitioning into a Headlock. "You're booty, son!" Kingston shouted before Edwards lifted him off of his feet for a Back Suplex, keeping a grip on Kingston. Edwards threw Kingston with a German Suplex, but Kingston managed to land on his feet. The tag was made to Big E, who came charging into the ring. Edwards, however, was able to hit Big E immediately with a Superkick, covering him for a two count. Edwards reacted by making the tag to Richards, who climbed to the top rope and leaped off with an Elbow Drop onto Big E. Richards got the cover, but Big E kicked out yet again. "I get the strategy here by The Alpha Wolves. Finish off New Day as quickly as they can, but rushing might just come back to haunt them," Graves inputed. Big E got to his knees, Richards kicking him repeatedly in the side of the head. Richards attempted what looked to be the Shining Wizard, but Big E caught him and delivered a Powerbomb. Big E ran the ropes and went for a Splash, Richards moving out of harm's way. Richards ran the ropes and drove both of his feet into the head and neck area of Big E, mounting on him to deliver elbow strikes. At that time, Xavier Woods was playing 'Francesca' at ringside, distracting Richards to the point where he took his eyes off of Big E to go after Woods through the ropes. Woods backed away, Kingston yelling at him to, "Respect the tunes!" When Richards turned around, Big E took him down with a huge Clothesline. He placed Richards in New Day's corner, gyrating his hips in front of Edwards before running full-speed into Richards. Big E tagged Kingston back in, who planted Richards with a Vertical Suplex before transitioning into a pin attempt. Richards got a shoulder up, Kofi grabbing him by his head to inflict punishment with some closed-fist shots. "New Day!" Kingston yelled out after he got to his feet, the audience mostly disapproving. Kingston twerked over Richards' body before attempting the Boom Drop, Richards catching him by surprise by countering into a roll-up for the near fall. After both superstars were standing again, Kingston threw a backhand slap that Richards ducked. Richards took both of his forearms and smashed them into Kofi's head, following up with a headbutt and then a Discus Elbow. Richards attempted to make the tag to Edwards, but Kingston was able to grab his foot. During that, Woods stepped onto the ring apron to catch the referee's attention. Richards stomped on Kofi's hand and tagged in Edwards. When the referee turned around, he got in Edwards' face as he didn't see the tag. Edwards tried to argue his case, Kingston utilizing that opening by low blowing Richards. Edwards was forced to go back into his corner, Kingston making sure the referee saw him tag in Big E. The powerhouse of The New Day ascended to the second rope, splashing onto Richards. Big E got the cover with the hook of the leg, but somehow, Richards managed to stay alive. Big E picked Richards up to his feet, whipping him into the ropes. Richards surprised Big E by delivering a Tornado DDT, both superstars down while looking to tag in their partners. Big E was able to make the tag to Kingston while Richards finally succeeded in bringing Edwards into the math. The fired up Edwards took Kingston down with repeatedly forearm strikes, one-half of the defending champions then Dropkicking Big E off of the ring apron. Edwards followed up with a Superkick attempt to Kingston, who was able to grab his foot. Richards stepped back into the ring at that point, The Alpha Wolves desperate to finish off The New Day while they had the chance. Their strategy nearly backfired when Kingston threw Edwards' foot into Richards face as he was running. Kingston then caught Edwards with Trouble in Paradise, covering him for about as close of a near fall as one could get. The WWE Universe members in Pittsburgh reacted wildly to the kickout as they were more than certain that Kingston had sealed the series for New Day at that moment. Kingston got back to his feet, beginning to clap his hands to the, "New! Day rocks!" rhythm. Richards got to his feet and ran towards Kingston, who threw him over his head and onto the apron. Edwards used that distraction to roll Kingston up into a small package, unable to get the win off of it. Big E slid back into the ring at that point and charged towards Richards for his patented Spear through the second rope. Richards, however, moved out of harm's way, resulting in Big E diving out of the ring and inadvertently onto Woods! Richards springboarded off of the top rope, kicking Kingston into the chest. Kingston backed into the clutches of Edwards, who caught him with a snap German Suplex! The Alpha Wolves could feel victory within their reach as Richards headed to the top rope, Edwards placing Kingston in a Powerbomb position. Together, they put Kingston down with Hunting Season, Edwards covering him for the three count! THE ALPHA WOLVES DEF. THE NEW DAY ; NEW DAY LEAD THE SERIES 3-2
The fans in the sold out Consol Energy Center came unglued as The Alpha Wolves rose to their feet, Eddie Edwards and Davey Richards hugging each other before being handed back their WWE Tag Team Championships. "... They got me. In absolutely no way did I believe that The Alpha Wolves stood any chance of holding onto those WWE Tag Team Titles here tonight, but they did it," Corey Graves said on commentary, admitting that he underestimated the tenacity of Richards and Edwards when the pressure was on them. After a few highlights of the match aired, all three members of The New Day were shown assisting each other up the entrance ramp, none of them taking the time to look behind them and see The Alpha Wolves celebrating as the WWE Tag Team Champions. However, the road to the Tag Team Titles for the New Day still remains the same. All they need is one more victory to become champions, while The Alpha Wolves need two in order to retain and claim the series.
Back at the Royal Rumble Kickoff Panel, Renee Young congratulated The Alpha Wolves on a successful WWE Tag Team Titles defense against The New Day, asking the panelists if they had any thoughts. Rey Mysterio spoke up and said that having been a former Tag Team Champion himself, that's the kind of action he loves seeing from the division. "When two teams are that good in the ring and give those kinds of performances... We're all winners. None bigger than The Alpha Wolves, though, so hats off to them," he said. Looking ahead to the rest of the Royal Rumble card, the panel discussed the Intercontinental Championship match between CM Punk and Bray Wyatt. Michael Cole said that this is a match-up that the WWE Universe has been wanting to see for a long time now, and it's been teased before in instances such as Bragging Rights 2012, but this is the first true one-on-one encounter between Punk and Wyatt on a major stage. "Bray Wyatt has said before that he doesn't intend on having Paige, Erick Rowan or Luke Harper in his corner tonight, but Wyatt is a master manipulator. It's hard to take anything that he says as fact, so I do believe two things: We'll see The Wyatt Family at ringside and we'll have a new Intercontinental Champion," said Cole. Byron Saxton agreed with Cole while Mysterio offered an alternate perspective. "It wasn't too long ago when CM Punk was essentially Bray Wyatt. The cult following. The manipulation. Punk has been in that spot before and I highly doubt he's lost his touch in that. Punk understands what he's getting himself into and he more than likely has a solution if any of the Wyatt Family members try to get involved. I have to go with Punk on this one."
In one of tonight's two main events, the WWE Championship is at stake in a Triple Threat match. AJ Styles defends against Seth Rollins and the man who earned this opportunity by winning Manifest Destiny, Dean Ambrose. Michael Cole noted the irony in this match-up when you look back at King of the Ring. "It was on that night in Chicago when AJ Styles made his debut, and which two superstars were having a match during then? Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins. And somehow, Styles got to the WWE Championship before either of them. It's hard to bet against the reigning champion, and it's just as hard to bet against the guy who endured Manifest Destiny and came out on top, but there's one man who is going to be the deciding factor in all of this and that's Triple H. With 'The Game' in the corner of Seth Rollins in a match where anything goes, Rollins has to be looked at as the favorite," Cole stated. Mysterio said that while Triple H will most certainly play a role in this match, it isn't like Styles and Ambrose won't recognize that. "Triple H was able to take Dean Ambrose out at TLC, sure, but tonight, he would have to take out Ambrose and Styles to make sure Rollins wins. This isn't going to be as easy of a match-up for Triple H to get involved in. I understand why someone would pick Seth Rollins to win, but I'm going with AJ Styles to walk out of here still with the WWE Title." Byron Saxton evened up the predictions by choosing Dean Ambrose. "After everything that Ambrose had to go through in 2013, whether it was facing the wrath of Triple H or coming out of Manifest Destiny as the winner, this is his time. He almost had this opportunity ripped away from him by Triple H and Seth Rollins. Ambrose is going to destroy both of them, and let's not forget that Styles had just as much to do with making 2013 hell for him as anyone else. This is Ambrose's match. In one shot, he can take out three men who have tried to keep him down. I think 'The Lunatic Fringe' gets the job done tonight and goes on to WrestleMania as the WWE Champion."
With time winding down, it was finally time for the panelists to look at the main event of the evening. The Royal Rumble match to crown the first-ever WWE Universe Champion. "This is a big deal. Not only does the winner become the first Universal Champion, but they'll be defending it in the main event of the biggest WrestleMania in history. Pretty much, this is the biggest match of the careers of all thirty participants. Someone will be in the record books as the first Universal Champion, but who's that going to be?" Renee Young asked, opening up the floor to everyone. Rey Mysterio said that despite John Cena announcing earlier that he'll be participating in the match, his prediction hasn't changed from what it was before. "In 2013, Cody Rhodes had one of the greatest years any WWE superstar has ever had. He started 2014 a little bumpy, but after putting away Bobby Roode on RAW, I think Cody's got his head in the game. He's been at the mountain top before and he's ready to get back there. I think Cody is gonna be the Universal Champion at the end of the night," Mysterio predicted. Byron Saxton said that while Brock Lesnar is going into the Royal Rumble match at less than 100%, he doesn't see that stopping 'The Beast Incarnate' one bit. "Paul Heyman said it best. Even on one leg, Brock Lesnar is still capable of throwing everybody over the top rope and making history by becoming the first-ever WWE Universal Champion." Lastly, Cole said that the WWE Universe has heard him over the years sing the praises of John Cena time and time again. "That's because I truly believe that Cena is the greatest WWE superstar of all time. His run over the last twelve years is incomparable to anyone else's. He's claimed victory in a Royal Rumble match before, and I think he'll do it again tonight to become Universal Champion. The lineage of that championship starts with 'The Face That Runs the Place.'
Wrapping up the Kickoff Show, Renee Young thanked the WWE Universe for tuning in as the Royal Rumble Pay-Per-View event was just seconds away. The Road to WrestleMania begins... Now!
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Post by tg11 on Jan 17, 2017 8:46:37 GMT -5
- Definitely the odds have changed especially now that Cena has announced himself as a Royal Rumble Match entrant...this definitely changes the odds considering Cena is a former Royal Rumble Match winner Cena won it all in 2008 and Cena not to mention he has ran this place for over 12 years being the face of the company but also he hasn't been champion for a while so if Cena is in the Royal Rumble Match he has got to be considered one of if not the favorite to win it all...Cena I love this new attitude of his it's about damn time
- Cena announcing himself as one of the 30 entrants and doing it just because he can but that he is sick and tired of this New Era nonsense well Big Match John he is here to do something about it
- After that confrontation he just had with The New Day I wonder if The New Day won't try to cost Cena the Royal Rumble Match considering the conversation they all had? Or I wonder if New Day won't try to enter themselves into the Royal Rumble Match mainly to make sure that Cena doesn't win?
- Daniel Bryan he wants to win the WWE United States Championship because he wants to restore prestige to the title he wants to make it mean something again I mean it makes sense given all the greats who have held that title it is like a who's who of Steamboat, Flair, Austin, Booker T, Cena, Bret Hart, Sting, Mr. Perfect, a who's who really of WWE legends and Hall of Famers and Bryan wants to be put into the conversation with all of them and Bryan he has a special history here at the Royal Rumble considering last year he won it all from the #1 position breaking Rey Mysterio's record of the longest time in the Royal Rumble Match and eventually going on to become WWE Champion last year and now this year he wants to become WWE United States Champion well Bryan is a former WWE United States Champion hell it was the first title he won when he came into WWE so of course him winning it again for the 2nd time would just be another accolade to a bonafide future WWE Hall of Fame career but Bryan in order for him to win tonight he would have to pin Miz or Aries to become champion
- Love Rey Mysterio being back but also love him being on the panel considering he not only is a WWE Hall of Famer in your diary but he won the Royal Rumble Match 8 years ago in 2006 as the #2 entrant lasted 62 minutes 12 seconds (1 hr 2 minutes 12 seconds) the second longest time in a Royal Rumble Match well he had the record before it was broken by Daniel Bryan but Rey being on the panel makes sense considering he is a former Royal Rumble Match winner but he brought us so many Royal Rumble Match memories to last us a lifetime
- Seeing the panel give their predictions for the Royal Rumble PPV for each and every match on the card well I am going to go on record right now and give my predictions on each match right here right now:
- AJ Lee (c) vs Alexa Bliss- WWE Women's Championship (if AJ Lee gets counted out or disqualified she loses the title)- Winner: New WWE Women's Champion Alexa Bliss - Enzo Amore (c) vs "Broken" Matt Hardy- WWE Hardcore Championship- Winner: New WWE Hardcore Champion Broken Matt Hardy - The Miz (c) vs Austin Aries vs Daniel Bryan- WWE United States Championship (Triple Threat Match)- Winner: Still WWE United States Champion The Miz (Miz pinning Aries; Bryan isn't pinned which sets up Miz/Bryan at the next PPV)
- AJ Styles (c) vs Seth Rollins w/Triple H vs Dean Ambrose- WWE Championship (Triple Threat Match)- Winner: New WWE Champion Seth "Freakin" Rollins (Rollins pins Ambrose; Styles isn't pinned which sets up Rollins/Styles for the title at the next PPV; which also sets up Triple H to face Ambrose at either the next PPV or at WrestleMania 30)
- Royal Rumble Match (well my list of predicted entrances)
1- Dash Wilder (starts out as #1 entrant) 2- Big Case 3- Justin Gabriel 4- Scott Dawson 5- Bo Dallas 6- Antonio Cesaro 7- Luke Harper (Wyatt Family member) 8- Matt Riddle 9- Neville 10- Rusev 11- Baron Corbin 12- Tyson Kidd 13- Randy Orton 14- Jeff Hardy (surprise entrant) 15- Erick Rowan (Wyatt Family member) 16- Bobby Roode 17- Adam Cole 18- Sofia Cortez 19- Chris Jericho 20- John Cena 21- Christian 22- Brock Lesnar 23- Derrick Bateman 24- Braun Strowman 25- Heath Slater 26- Paige (Wyatt Family member) 27- Cody Rhodes (*lucky number) 28- The Undertaker (surprise entrant) 29- Sting (surprise entrant) 30- Kevin Owens (*guaranteed)
Final 5: Bobby Roode, John Cena, Cody Rhodes, Brock Lesnar, Derrick Bateman Final 4: Bobby Roode, Cody Rhodes, John Cena, Brock Lesnar Final 3: Bobby Roode, Cody Rhodes, John Cena Final 2: Bobby Roode, Cody Rhodes
2014 Royal Rumble Match winner and the first ever WWE Universal Champion Bobby Roode wins from the #16 position last eliminating Cody Rhodes (#27) to win it all; Roode is going to WrestleMania 30 in the main event as WWE Universal Champion
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Post by Planktung on Feb 1, 2017 14:41:54 GMT -5
Following the signature WWE intro, a black screen was accompanied by the sound of the WWE Universe counting down from ten to one. "Once a year..." said a voiceover while highlights from previous Royal Rumble matches aired, showcasing winners such as Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H, Batista, Rey Mysterio and Daniel Bryan, all superstars who went on to become champion at WrestleMania. However, this year, the stakes are higher than they've ever been before. "... Has become once in a lifetime." With that declaration came footage of talent like Brock Lesnar, John Cena, Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes as tonight, they and a plethora of other WWE superstars aim to make history. The Royal Rumble match will set the stage for the future of professional wrestling as the winner will be crowned the first-ever WWE Universal Champion and defend it in the main event of WrestleMania XXX. After a shot of Lesnar standing in the ring came another black screen. This time, a light shined on Erick Rowan and Luke Harper, the two staring directly at the WWE Universe while Paige emerged from the darkness. Only the blood stains underneath her eyes were visible, but her voice left chills running down everyone's spines to close the video. "... She's got the whole world... In her hands."
And with that, the most exciting period of World Wrestling Entertainment's year began. The Road to WrestleMania was underway as the Royal Rumble was presented live from the Consol Energy Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The sold out audience roared with intensity and anticipation as tonight, the first-ever WWE Universal Champion will be crowned in the thirty superstar Royal Rumble match. Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves welcomed everyone to the Royal Rumble, cameras getting a shot of the WrestleMania XXX sign looming over the WWE Universe. "The world will be watching as someone will hold the WWE Universal Title high above their heads with a first class ticket to the main event of WrestleMania," Ranallo said before Graves mentioned that while the Universal Title is at stake in the main event, the evening's co-main event will see three of WWE's biggest components of the present and future battle it out. "'The Phenomenal One.' 'The Lunatic Fringe.' 'The Architect of the Future.' This is going to be a war," Graves stated with enthusiasm while rubbing his hands together. "And speaking of Triple Threat championship matches, we now send things over to our own Justin Roberts for the United States Championship bout!"
At the sound of Daniel Bryan's entrance music, the fans in Pittsburgh erupted as the winner of last year's Royal Rumble match made his way out to the stage. Together, Bryan and the sold out crowd engaged in the "Yes!" chant while one of the two challengers for the United States Champion headed down to the ring. "The very first championship that Bryan put on his WWE résumé was the United States Championship. He defeated the man who is currently holding the gold, but he also to contend with a man who he once considered to be a close friend in the industry," Mauro Ranallo said, needing to speak at a higher volume than usual because of the fans' chants. Those cheers simmered down and turned into boos when the intro to Austin Aries' theme hit. Soon, the logo of 'The Greatest Man That Ever Lived' popped up on the titantron as he made his way into the arena for his Pay-Per-View debut. Aries' displayed his entrance cape for the WWE Universe to see, even though all they really wanted to see was Bryan get his hands on him. Aries stepped onto the ring and leaped over the top rope, posing on the second turnbuckle while removing his cape. He turned around and gave an arrogant smirk at Bryan while motioning for the United States Champion. Aries and Bryan tried to come face-to-face, but the official made sure to keep both men separated until the bell rang. Finally... "Quiet on the set! Can we please have quiet on the set?!" An even bigger negative response than the one Aries received emerged from the Pittsburgh audience as The Miz and his wife, Maryse, strutted onto the stage, 'The Awesome One' holding up the United States Championship for Bryan and Aries to see. Miz and Maryse headed down to the ring, the defending champion removing a special Phantom of the Opera inspired mask that he wore for the occasion. "That's what an A-lister looks like, Mauro. Everything about The Miz screams 'superstar.' Million dollar outfits. The admiration of a beautiful woman. The envy of the masses, but most of all, the United States Championship," Corey Graves said, Ranallo noting that very soon, Miz may not have the gold. After the pre-match introductions, the official held up the United States Title while all three men prepared for battle. When the bell sounded, Bryan ran full speed into Aries, hitting him with a corner Dropkick. While Bryan was getting up to his feet, Miz attempted to lock his arms in place for the Skull Crushing Finale. Bryan, however, countered it into an attempt at the Yes Lock, Miz able to escape and roll out of the ring. Bryan ran the ropes for a Suicide Dive, but Maryse stepped in front of her husband, forcing Bryan to stop himself right before leaping through the ropes. Aries rolled Bryan up from behind, only managing to get what was barely a two count. Miz slid back into the ring and kicked Aries in the ribs before targeting Bryan. Miz placed Bryan in a corner, striking him a few times before looking to take Bryan out with his own corner Dropkick. Bryan dodged The Miz and tried to run into the opposite corner, but Aries threw him into the air and back down with a Back Body Drop. With Miz getting to his feet, Aries ran from corner-to-corner for his own Dropkick. Aries covered Miz, but 'The Awesome One' was able to get a shoulder up. Aries brought Miz up to his feet and placed him in a corner, delivering a chop to the chest before Bryan got a hold of him from behind. Bryan went for a Back Suplex, but Aries landed on his feet. Aries tried charged towards Bryan, who moved out of the way. Aries smashed his forearm into Miz inadvertently, Bryan doing the same after Aries moved out of his way. Aries and Bryan continued to miss each other while striking Miz instead, amusing the WWE Universe. Miz eventually fell to the canvas after a fifth shot from Bryan, rolling out of the ring thereafter. Bryan caught Aries for a Northern Lights Suplex, but 'The Greatest Man That Ever Lived' retaliated with shots to his upper-back region. When Aries attempted to deliver a Brainbuster, Bryan rolled him into an inside cradle for the near fall. Aries rolled to the outside to catch his breath for a second, but The Miz grabbed him by his shoulders and threw him into the barricade. Miz continued to punish Aries until Bryan delivered a Suicide Dive, taking out the defending champion. The audience in Pittsburgh came alive once again, the "Yes!" chants in full effect while Bryan rolled Miz into the ring. Bryan ascended to the top rope, looking to connect with a Diving Headbutt. However, Aries was able to spring to his feet and push Bryan off of the turnbuckles and onto the floor. Before heading back into the ring, Aries leaped off of the ring apron with a Missile Dropkick to Bryan, who backed into the edge of the announce table. Aries stepped back into the squared circle, Miz immediately striking the side of his leg. Aries kicked Miz in the side of the head, the United States Champion being brought to his feet afterwards. Aries locked Miz' arms behind his back and rammed him into a corner, Aries standing on the second rope to deliver repeated closed-fist strikes. Aries then seated Miz on the top turnbuckle with a Superplex on his mind. Before he could hit it, Bryan re-entered the ring and grabbed Aries by his legs for a Powerbomb. The Tower of Doom resulted in Miz and Aries crashing onto the canvas while Bryan used the ropes to assist him to his feet. Miz was the first to try getting back up, Bryan prepared to strike with a Busaiku Knee. However, Maryse grabbed his leg from underneath the bottom rope, assisting her husband for the second time in the match-up. Miz charged towards Bryan, Maryse's help allowing him to perform his Corner Clothesline. Miz, who was holding his lower-back after taking a Superlex earlier, slowly walked towards the center of the ring as both Bryan and Aries got to their knees at the same time. Miz mocked Bryan by hitting both him and Aries with a kicks to the chest. After Miz stopped, he pointed both of his index fingers into the air, taking the "Yes!" chant and turning it into "Miz!" The defending champion ran the ropes, but was thrown onto the canvas with a Back Body Drop from both Bryan and Aries. With Miz down momentarily, Aries seized the opening and caught Bryan with a Discus Elbow. Aries covered Bryan, who was able to kick out at two. Aries' response was to get a hold of Miz, attempting to throw him out of the ring. Miz turned the tables on Aries, sending him out through the opening between the top and middle ropes. When Miz turned around, Bryan drilled him with the Busaiku Knee! Bryan couldn't immediately capitalize, the WWE Universe cheering him on to get the cover. Bryan draped his shoulder across Miz' chest, but 'The Awesome One' kicked out with just a millisecond left! The disappointment in the audience was clear, Maryse showing the opposite reaction as she clapped for her husband. While Miz was getting to his feet, Aries slid back into the ring and threw him shoulder-first into the steel ring post. Aries went back after Bryan, who tried to fight back with repeated palm strikes. Aries countered by ramming Bryan into a corner, the back of Bryan's neck smacking against the top turnbuckle. Aries vertically hoisted Bryan into the air, bringing him down with a Brainbuster! Going for the finishing blow to Bryan, Aries ascended to the top rope and delivered a 450 Splash! "New champion! Greatness, Mauro!" screamed Corey Graves as Aries got the cover, but Miz was able to intervene at the last second and disrupt the pin! At that point, everybody in Pittsburgh was on their feet, applauding all three superstars for a United States Championship match would be difficult to top for the rest of 2014. All three competitors rose from the canvas at the same time, Miz striking Bryan and then Aries. Bryan responded by hitting both men himself, Aries doing the exact same afterwards. This sequence continued until Bryan headbutted Miz! The United States Champion rolled out of the ring, Aries leaping towards Bryan and crashing his knee into his sternum. When Aries to run the ropes, Bryan quickly grabbed him by his waist and planted him with a German Suplex! Bryan kept the bridge, Aries managing to kick out. The rejuvenated Bryan stepped onto the second rope before proceeding to fly through the air with a Busaiku Knee to the back of Aries' head! "Reminiscent of one of Bryan's good friends in the industry, Shinsuke Nakamura!" Mauro said, likening Bryan's knee strike to the Boma Ye set-up. Bryan ran into a corner, waiting patiently for Aries to get back up. Bryan charged into 'The Greatest Man That Ever Lived' with the Busaiku Knee, but before he could get the cover, Miz re-entered the ring. Miz got a hold of Bryan and delivered the Skull Crushing Finale! Miz rolled Bryan over and covered him, the official making the three count.THE MIZ IS STILL THE UNITED STATES CHAMPION!
The one outcome from this Triple Threat match that the WWE Universe completely resented became a reality that settled in when Justin Roberts made the official announcement. "The winner of this match... And STILL United States Champion, The Miz!" Miz got to his knees after pinning Daniel Bryan, the official handing him back the United States Title while Maryse hugged him. Miz rose to his feet with his wife in one arm and the United States Title in the other. Mauro Ranallo made the argument that had it not been for Maryse and the sly antics of Miz, Bryan would have been crowned the new champion. "Don't try to rain on The Miz' parade, Mauro! Maryse didn't pin Daniel Bryan, now did she?! The Miz did! The most-must see superstar in WWE history is still the most-must see United States Champion, whether you like it or not!" Miz and Maryse made their way up the entrance ramp, Bryan coming to in the ring. He moved the hair out of his face, staring a hole through the WWE's power couple that managed to overcome both he and Austin Aries. On the stage, Miz held the United States Title up one more time for Pittsburgh to see, 'The Awesome One' continuing his never-ending tour as the United States Champion.
A promo was shown for NXT TakeOver: R-Evolution. Four huge championship matches are officially signed to take place at the CFE Arena in Orlando, Florida. Sami Zayn puts the NXT Championship on the line against Finn Balor, Hideo Itami and Pentagon in a Fatal Four Way match. Bayley defends the NXT Women's Title against the superstar who betrayed her this past week, Emma. International sensation Kota Ibushi looks to take the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship back to New Japan Pro Wrestling when he challenges Tyler Breeze, and just confirmed is the Two-out-of-Three Falls match for the NXT Tag Team Championships between Ricochet and Uhaa Nation, and The Addiction. NXT TakeOver: R-Evolution is live, Wednesday February 19th, only on WWE Network.
Returning to the live feed of the Royal Rumble, the commentary duo of Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves was shown reeling from the exhilarating United States Championship match. "The Miz holds onto the United States Title, which AJ Lee should hope begins a trend of champions retaining this evening because coming up next, 'Crazy' meets 'Wicked' with the gold at stake," Mauro said while a graphic for the Women's Championship match was shown. Cutting to a video package, Of Mice & Men's "Broken Generation" began playing. On September 30th, a brand new face from the Performance Center was given her opportunity to shine on the main roster. Made the protege of Natalya, Alexa Bliss made it clear to the WWE Universe that she had a promising career ahead of her. However, Alexa traded the respect of the fans in for a chance to become WWE Women's Champion at TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs. Kaitlyn made the last-minute decision to put Alexa in the TLC match between AJ Lee and Sofia Cortez, 'The Wicked Witch of WWE' becoming even more loathed by the masses for being put into a situation that she wasn't deserving of. AJ came out on top to become the first Women's Champion of The New Era, but Alexa didn't take her sights off of the title. "She lies there in wait / And feeling so hollow / Can't find love in this place / Left alone with her sorrow." At Concrete Jungle, not only did AJ overcome Paige to retain her championship, but Alexa became the number one contender by defeating Sofia. The following night on RAW, after AJ was put through a table by Bray Wyatt, Alexa added insult to injury by running into the ring as the champion was receiving medical attention. Alexa delivered Twisted Bliss to AJ, telling her the same thing AJ said at TLC - "Get out of MY division!" With AJ out of action for the week, Alexa directed a series of videos that she titled "Ms. Bliss,' which intended to lecture a group of children about the dangers of idolizing someone like AJ. 'The Crazy Chick' had seen enough from Alexa, making her return the next week to attack Alexa. "The road to hell is paved in good intentions and apathy / What did you expect when common sense is your enemy?" As a result, neither woman were allowed to be in the same building as the other until tonight. This past Monday on RAW, a heated exchange via satellite took place between the two, Alexa taking things to another level by bringing up her dark past to the Women's Champion. "If an eating disorder couldn't kill me, you sure as hell won't." The complexion of the match was changed entirely on SmackDown when Allie, the assistant to Stephanie McMahon and Dario Cueto, was forced to inform AJ that if she is disqualified in tonight's match, Alexa will become the new champion. AJ's response? Threatening to strike Allie with a lead pipe. The time has finally come for Alexa Bliss to deliver on her promise: Fix the division that women like AJ helped destroy. "Can you pick up all the pieces of this broken generation?"
"This is it. The biggest match... The biggest moment of her life is upon her," Corey Graves said when Alexa Bliss' entrance music hit. 'The Wicked Witch of WWE' walked out onto the stage, donning blue gear with her hair also returning to form with blue highlights. "An Instagram post from Alexa Bliss earlier explained the change to her hair. Symbolism is everything. This is who the WWE Universe thought she was, and tonight, she intends on showing everybody who she truly is," Mauro Ranallo stated. Alexa walked down to the ring, repeatedly taking deep breaths in an act that both commentators agreed showed her nervousness more than anything else. "Last year, she watched the Royal Rumble from home as an NXT superstar. Now, with only four months of experience on the main roster, she's in a WWE Women's Championship match." Once in the ring, Bliss took a seat on the bottom rope, staring directly at the stage. Only one person stands between her and the championship, but it isn't just anyone. It's the woman who has proven time and time again that she doesn't care for anybody's well-being, and that includes her own. At the sound of AJ Lee's entrance music, the fans in Pittsburgh erupted for the superstar who took 2013 by storm and is destined to do the same this year. AJ made her way out onto the stage, giving a half-smirk to the crowd before turning her attention to Alexa, at which point her facial expression became that of disdain. The champion skipped down to the ring, taking the time to circle around the ring for a bit in order to further get into the head of Alexa. After AJ stepped into the ring, she handed over the Women's Championship, potentially for the last time. "No champion's advantage for AJ. The only way for her to retain the title is for Alexa Bliss to lose, one way or another." After the pre-match introductions, the bell sounded as AJ charged into Alexa, taking her down with a Thesz Press! AJ unloaded with a series of shots to Alexa, who rolled out of the ring to save herself. Rather than going after Alexa in a normal manner, AJ ran the ropes and leaped out of the ring with a Suicide Dive. However, Alexa was able to move out of harm's way, causing AJ to crash into the announce table! With AJ laid out, Alexa stepped onto the surface of the table, descending with Twisted Bliss! The audience stood up and began worrying as it genuinely looked like Alexa was going to become Women's Champion at that moment. 'The Wicked Witch of WWE' quickly rolled AJ into the ring, covering her for a two count! Wasting no time, Alexa headed to the top rope, looking to deliver a second Twisted Bliss to finish off the champion. This time, AJ was able to get her knees up, rolling Alexa up for the near fall. Both women were slow to get to their feet, AJ backing into a corner once she did so. Alexa ran towards AJ, who was able to fend her off with the soles of her Chucks. AJ positioned herself on the second rope, jumping into the air for a DDT to Alexa. After Alexa kicked out, AJ showed signs of her lower-back giving in as a result of her collision with the announce table earlier. When AJ got to her feet, she grabbed Alexa by her hair to pick her up, but Alexa rammed AJ into a corner. AJ fell to the canvas and tried crawling away, but Alexa literally stood on top of her to prevent that. Alexa placed her foot on the back of AJ's head, repeatedly stomping her face into the mat. Alexa proceeded to kick AJ out of the ring, taking a second to taunt the Pittsburgh audience that booed her relentlessly. Alexa headed to the outside, where she grabbed AJ and threw her into the barricade that guarded the time keeper's area. "Look at this. AJ Lee, the woman who helped revolutionize the division through violence, is being beaten down by Alexa Bliss," Corey Graves said. Alexa grabbed AJ by her face, forcing her to look at the Women's Title that in her words, "Is coming home with me." Alexa then attempted ti Irish Whip AJ into the steel ring post, but she ended up being on the receiving end of it. AJ stepped onto the ring apron, Superkicking Alexa before practically falling back into the ring through the ropes. The official reached the count of eight when Alexa was able to get into the squared circle again, finding a burst of energy to charge towards AJ. The Women's Champion dodged a Clothesline from Alexa, running the ropes and attempting to trap her adversary in the Black Widow! The hold couldn't be fully applied as AJ wasn't able to wrap her leg around Alexa's head. Thus, Alexa was able to counter the submission into a Backbreaker, further damaging AJ's weak spot. Alexa dropped both of her knees onto the stomach of AJ before performing a Standing Moonsault onto her. Alexa got the cover, but again, AJ was able to kick out. The challenger grew even more frustrated at that point, bringing AJ closer to a corner. Alexa stepped onto the second rope, attempting a 450 Splash. AJ evaded it, but Alexa landed on her feet and rolled back into a standing position. She charged towards AJ, who side-stepped her. When AJ attempted to forearm smash Alexa in a corner, Alexa picked her feet up form the canvas and planted AJ with Code Red! AJ was able to kick out yet again, Alexa throwing a temper tantrum and shouting at the official. Alexa put her focus back onto AJ, picking her up for her Dragon Suplex, Alexaonfire. AJ, however, was able to twist and turn her way out of the hold, kicking Alexa in the mid-section before delivering the Twist of Fate! Both women were down and out, AJ having to scratch and claw her way towards Alexa to get the cover. Because she took so long to capitalize, Alexa got her shoulder up just before three. The exhausted AJ stood up and got a hold of Alexa, trying for another Twist of Fate. Alexa pushed AJ into the corner, inadvertently taking out the official in the process. Alexa tried to whip AJ into the opposite corner, but AJ held onto Alexa's hand, bringing her in for Eat Defeat. With Alexa stunned, AJ found the opening that she needed to deliver the Shining Wizard. AJ connected with it, but the official wasn't able to make the count for her. AJ took a second to catch her breath before seemingly gaining an idea. She rolled to the outside of the ring, looking underneath the ring and bringing out the lead pipe that she threatened Allie with on SmackDown two nights ago. "Is AJ serious right now!? If she gets caught with that weapon, she gets herself disqualified and Alexa becomes champion!" Graves said, heavily questioning the intentions of AJ. The Women's Champion slid back into the ring, sizing up Alexa with the lead pipe. At the same time, the official began stirring to his feet. AJ looked back and forth at Alexa and the official, making sure her plan would work. When Alexa turned around, AJ threw the lead pipe towards her. Alexa caught the weapon and as soon as she did, AJ collapsed onto the canvas. Alexa had no clue what was happening, but when the official turned around, all he saw was her holding the lead pipe and AJ "unconscious." The fans in the Consol Energy Center applauded AJ and chanted "Eddie!" nonstop while also encouraging the official to disqualify Alexa. "Did you hit her?!" the official asked Alexa, who threw the lead pipe down and pleaded her case. The official glanced back at AJ, who had not moved since she threw the lead pipe at Alexa. Forced to make a decision at that moment, the official went ahead and disqualified Alexa!AJ LEE IS STILL THE WWE WOMEN'S CHAMPION!
"WHAT?!?!?!?!" Alexa Bliss screamed at the top of her lungs as she dropped to her knees, appearing to be on the verge of tears. The WWE Universe, on the other hand, erupted into cheers as the announcement was made that Alexa had been disqualified for allegedly using a lead pipe. "Viva La Raza!" Mauro Ranallo joyfully exclaimed, Corey Graves responding with, "Viva La Robbery! Alexa Bliss would never hurt a fly! Okay, she would, but she did NOT hit AJ Lee with a lead pipe!!" AJ Lee rolled out of the ring and backed against a barricade, smiling at Alexa before being handed back the WWE Women's Title. "NO! NO! NO! NO! NO! NO! NO!" shouted Alexa as she took the lead pipe and smashed it repeatedly onto the canvas before throwing it towards AJ, who was already on the stage by that point. "This isn't right! Alexa Bliss should not have been disqualified! AJ cheated to retain the Women's Championship and all of these people are celebrating! Why?!" Graves questioned, Ranallo answering him. "After everything that Alexa Bliss has done... I can't say that she doesn't deserve this." The WWE Universe came into this match speculating if AJ would be disqualified, but nobody expected Alexa to be the one who would end up suffering. Controversy will forever hover over this match, but ultimately, AJ Lee will be leaving the Royal Rumble with her WWE Women's Championship intact.
A promo was shown for Battleground, featuring the return of the WarGames. Not one, but two matches will see teams of five compete against each other in the unforgiving confines of WarGames. Battleground, live Sunday February 23rd, on Pay-Per-View and WWE Network.
Returning to the Consol Energy Center for the Royal Rumble, Justin Roberts asked that the WWE Universe please welcome the RAW Commissioner, Stephanie McMahon, and General Manager, Dario Cueto. The two made their way down to the ring along with their assistant, Allie. Stephanie and Dario both appeared to want to get all of this over with, while Allie took the time to wave to the fans in Pittsburgh and smile at them. "Just get in the ring," Stephanie said into Allie's ear. After the three RAW staff members were in the squared circle, Dario asked for Shane McMahon to, "Get out here and hurry up with this whole thing. You're wasting everyone's time already." Perhaps just for that comment, Shane made Dario and Stephanie wait even longer than he normally would have. Finally, Shane's entrance music hit to the delight of Pittsburgh, the SmackDown Live Commissioner stepping onto the stage in his Shadow 1s. Allie bopped her head to Shane's theme, which Stephanie stopped when she noticed her. "Don't do that. He's the enemy." Once in the ring, Shane offered a handshake to the RAW staff, nobody accepting it. Allie tried to, but Stephanie put her arm down. "What's up, Pittsburgh?" Shane asked, Dario making a hand gesture to tell Shane to get on with his announcement. "Before I let everybody know who I've selected as the General Manager of SmackDown Live, I just wanted to thank you two for actually being here. You know, since you both left the ring immediately on Monday night. The reason I wanted you guys to be here tonight is because I want to see the look on your faces when this individual who will run SmackDown Live alongside me comes out here," Shane said before Stephanie interrupted. "Then just bring him out already?! Who in the world could you have possibly convinced to run SmackDown Live with an egomaniac such as yourself? Is it Teddy Long? I'll bet it is. Or, maybe just to stick it to me, you picked Eric Bischoff? Huh, is that who it is?" Shane quieted Stephanie when he said that as much as he would like to "stick it to her," that wasn't his intention. "I didn't choose a General Manager with the mindset that I need to upset you or Dario Cueto. I chose a General Manager with the mindset that this individual can help make SmackDown Live the land of opportunity. I made a phone call Monday morning and I asked this individual if he wanted to be a part of history. And why do I trust him so much? Because I was around to see him climb to the mountain top here. I've gone to hell and back with this guy, so I know for a fact that he is one tough, resilient S.O.B. This man's résumé speaks for itself. WWE Champion. World Heavyweight Champion. Intercontinental Champion. United States Champion. He's done it all. Along with that, he is a former SmackDown General Manager. He just so happens to be from Pittsburgh..." As soon as Shane said that, all speculation went out the window as the fans in attendance knew who he was referring to, and they didn't hold back their joy. "And, he is the 2nd inductee in the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2014! Without any further ado, ladies and gentlemen, the General Manager of SmackDown Live..." At the sound of Kurt Angle's entrance music, the roof just about blew off of the Consol Energy Center. Professional wrestling's only Olympic Gold Medalist made his way out to the stage for the first time since delivering his retirement speech the night after SummerSlam. "Can you believe this? Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle will be running SmackDown Live come the brand extension!" yelled out an excited Mauro Ranallo. A fellow Pittsburgh native himself, Corey Graves stood up from his seat and showed his appreciation for Angle, as did everybody in the audience. Angle stepped into the ring and shook Shane's hand before the hugging him. Allie went in for a hug herself, Stephanie and Dario grabbing her by her arms to hold her back. When Angle's music silenced, the staff for RAW and SmackDown Live started each other down in the ring while chants of, "Angle!" rang throughout the arena. Shane handed his microphone over to Angle in case he had anything to say. Taking his time to allow the crowd to simmer down, Angle finally spoke and delivered his message to Stephanie and Dario. "... Oh it's true! It's damn true!" Shane and Angle exited the ring, both men taking the time to greet the fans in the front row while Stephanie and Dario were shown with shocked and disapproving expressions on their faces. The 2nd inductee into this year's Hall of Fame also happens to be the SmackDown Live General Manager, Kurt Angle!
Turning the attention back to the commentators, Mauro Ranallo made sure to congratulate Kurt Angle on both the General Manager position and his spot in this year's Hall of Fame. Corey Graves said that it'll be an honor to hear Angle speak in New Orleans at the Hall of Fame, as well as every Thursday night thereafter on SmackDown Live. "The McMahon Family continues down the road to division, but The Wyatt Family could be stronger than every by the end of tonight. Not only do Luke Harper, Erick Rowan and Paige have the chance to become WWE Universal Champion, but up next, Bray Wyatt can claim the Intercontinental Championship." Transitioning into a video package, the history of Bray Wyatt was quickly highlighted up to this point. 'The Eater of Worlds' has ran through names such as Kane, Triple H, The Undertaker, and even John Cena at the 2013 King of the Ring to become WWE Champion. After Wyatt failed in his quest to recapture the WWE Title from Cody Rhodes, his sights were set on Paige, who he believes to be Sister Abigail reincarnated. After defeating Paige in a Casket match at Survivor Series, Wyatt remained hidden for a few weeks until he re-emerged at TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs to attack the Intercontinental Champion, CM Punk. After repeating his assault the following night at the Slammys, then-half owner of WWE, Derrick Bateman, made this match official for the Royal Rumble. At Concrete Jungle, 'The Best in the World' made his return to save AJ Lee from a beatdown at the hands of The Wyatt Family, but ended up being on the receiving end of a slam onto thumbtacks. The bumpy road to the Royal Rumble continued for Punk in a Gauntlet match. After defeating Luke Harper and Erick Rowan, the Intercontinental Champion believed that he was going to get Bray Wyatt one-on-one. Instead, he met Paige in the ring, and 'The Anti-Diva' managed to pin him. This past Monday, Punk and Wyatt finally exchanged words in a heated confrontation, the challenger in this match-up leaving Punk with a chilling message. "He's got the whole world in his hands, he's got the whole wide world in his hands. He's the got the whole world in his hands, he's got... The 'Best in the World' in his hands..."
"Pittsburgh... We're here!" The ominous intro to Bray Wyatt's entrance was followed by the 'fireflies' consuming the atmosphere in the Consol Energy Center. Thousands upon thousands of WWE Universe members showed their solidarity with 'The Easter of Worlds' as he slowly made his way out onto the stage, no other Wyatt Family member in sight near him. "He's keeping his promise to CM Punk that this will be a one-on-one contest," Corey Graves stated, Mauro Ranallo arguing that Luke Harper, Erick Rowan and Paige could emerge at any given moment. After Wyatt was in the ring, he blew out the lantern and placed it down onto the canvas, removing his hat before staring at the stage. While Wyatt's crowd response was significant, it paled in comparison to the eruption that sounded when "Cult of Personality" blasted over the PA system. CM Punk walked through the curtain and into the arena, unzipping his jacket to show the Intercontinental Championship strapped around his waist. "It was back at Hell in a Cell when Punk defeated Seth Rollins to capture one of professional wrestling's most prestigious accolades for the second time in his career. 91 days that man has spent carrying around the Intercontinental Title with pride, but it can all come to an end tonight against the man who, as he puts it, has the whole world in his hands." After Justin Roberts announced Bray Wyatt, 'The Eater of Worlds' held onto the top rope while bending his back towards the mat, staring at Punk while grinning widely. Punk was unfazed by Wyatt's attempt at instilling fear in him, the Intercontinental Champion determined to overcome him here tonight. While Punk was being announced, Wyatt charged into 'The Best in the World'! Wyatt unloaded with a series of shots to Punk before bringing him into the center of the ring for Sister Abigail. The bell finally sounded at that point, Punk able to slide his way out of Wyatt's grasp. Punk caught Wyatt across his head with a Roundhouse Kick before attempting to host him up for the Go To Sleep. Wyatt's mass got the better of Punk at that moment, however. Wyatt lifted Punk in a Powerbomb position, throwing him into a corner. The back of Punk's head collided with the second turnbuckle, Wyatt not caring as he grabbed Punk's leg to pull him away from the ropes. Wyatt ran the ropes and splashed onto Punk with a Running Senton, which only garnered him a two count. Wyatt brought Punk back to his feet, placing him in a corner while grabbing his face. "What happens when the 'Voice of the Voiceless' has his throat ripped out of his flesh?!" Wyatt screamed in Punk's face while choking him. Wyatt backed into the opposite and ran towards Punk, who was able to move out of harm's way. Punk targeted the groggy Wyatt and delivered a few strikes before running the ropes for a leaping forearm. Punk connected with the shot, resulting in Wyatt falling out of the ring. Punk climbed onto the top turnbuckle, soaring through the air with what he intended to be a hammer fist. Wyatt, however, was able to catch Punk as his feet touched the ground, picking up the Intercontinental Champion and throwing him onto the announce table! Wyatt pulled Punk back onto the floor before throwing him shoulder-first into the steel ring steps. Wyatt was in the driver's seat at that point, rolling Punk back into the ring for another two count. Wyatt didn’t appear to be frustrated nor irritated as one normally would when getting a near fall. Instead, ‘The Eater of Worlds’ rocked back and forth while sitting on the mat, smiling at Punk’s near-lifeless body. Punk began stirring when Wyatt turned to a corner, hanging his head upside down while continuing to glare at the Intercontinental Champion. Wyatt began moving towards Punk in his spider walk, ‘The Best in the World’ fuming in the face of Wyatt. “Follow! The buzzards!” Wyatt shouted before rolling back onto his front side. Wyatt got to his feet and tried to run the ropes, but Punk was able to deliver a shot to the back of his knee. The now-limping Wyatt backed against the ropes while shaking his leg, which gave Punk the opening to deliver a running knee. Wyatt was rocked as he moved towards the center of the ring, Punk standing on the ring apron. Punk springboarded off of the top rope, leaping into Wyatt with a Clothesline. The defending champion got back up to his feet before heading to the top rope. After pointing both of his fingers towards the ceiling, Punk descended with an Elbow Drop that Wyatt was able to roll away from. Wyatt was the first back up, allowing him to charge into Punk with a running Crossbody. ‘The Eater of Worlds’ went for Sister Abigail yet again, but Punk managed to retaliate with strikes to the head of Wyatt. After Punk was freed, he caught Wyatt with a backhand slap, which now made Wyatt infuriated. He grabbed Punk by his neck and hit him with a headbutt, Punk responding with a Roundhouse Kick. This exchange continued until both men turned to forearm strikes instead, which exhausted both of them at an equal pace. “Come on, Bray!” Punk shouted, Wyatt meeting his request by delivering an uppercut strike. Wyatt backed against the ropes to catch his breath since he wasn’t expecting Punk to ran towards him at full speed with a Clothesline that sent both men over the top rope. Punk quickly slid back into the ring to attempt a Suicide Dive. As he was leaping through the ropes, Wyatt drilled him with a heavy right hand shot. Wyatt stepped onto the ring apron and brought Punk out there, dropping him with a Urinagi onto the hardest part of the ring! Wyatt picked Punk’s motionless body up and rolled him into the ring, ‘The Eater of Worlds’ looking to finish off the Intercontinental Champion. Wyatt placed Punk in position for Sister Abigail, successfully delivering it this time. Wyatt got the cover on Punk, but at the very last millisecond, Punk was able to get a foot on the bottom rope! “So the referee sees Punk’s foot on the rope but he disqualifies Alexa Bliss for no reason?! Fantastic!” said Corey Graves in a sarcastic tone, still upset over the Women’s Title match result. Wyatt was only upset about the result that didn’t come to fruition at that moment, picking Punk up by his head. Instead of calling for Sister Abigail, Wyatt took his thumb and made a throat slit gesture. Wyatt then lifted Punk into position for the Tombstone, the maneuver of the ‘Deadman’ that was buried by him at Extreme Rules. Punk, however, was able to turn the tables and ended up being the one to execute the Tombstone! Punk grabbed Wyatt by his hair to pick up his dead weight before managing to get him onto his shoulders. After Punk hit the Go to Sleep, Wyatt bounced off of the ropes and essentially walked right back into Punk’s grasp. ‘The Best in the World’ delivered one more Go to Sleep, which proved to be enough to put Wyatt away and hold onto the Intercontinental Championship.
CM PUNK IS STILL THE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION!
With the announcement that CM Punk was still the Intercontinental Champion came a thunderous ovation from the masses in Pittsburgh. Punk slowly rose to his feet as he was handed back the Intercontinental Title, ‘The Best in the World’ overcoming ‘The Eater of Worlds’ in a hard-fought battle. “CM Punk adds his name to the list of superstars who have defeated Bray Wyatt over a two-year period, joining only The Undertaker and Cody Rhodes,” Mauro Ranallo said to note the significance and rarity of Wyatt being pinned. Punk made his way up the entrance ramp while holding the Intercontinental Championship high above his head. Back in the ring, the mood was the polar opposite as Wyatt had an expression on his face that had rarely been seen from him: Uncertainty. He failed to become Intercontinental Champion, so now, he must rely on one of his three family members – Luke Harper, Erick Rowan and Paige – to come out on top in the Royal Rumble match. If The Wyatt Family does not seize the WWE Universal Championship tonight, what becomes of them?
At this time, the very first promo for WrestleMania XXX was shown, featuring one of the official theme songs, "Throne" by Bring Me the Horizon. The intro to the song was accompanied by highlights from past WrestleManias, including Hulk Hogan slamming Andre the Giant at III, Shawn Michaels' WWE Championship win at XII, and Edge's Spear to Jeff Hardy at X-7. After the two snare drum hits at twelve seconds, modern day footage was put on display featuring AJ Styles, John Cena, Cody Rhodes, Brock Lesnar and CM Punk among many others. "So you can throw me to the wolves / Tomorrow I will come back, leader of the whole pack / Beat me black and blue / Every wound will shape me, every scar will build my throne." The biggest WrestleMania in history comes to the Mercedez-Benz Superdome on Sunday, April 6th, on Pay-Per-View and WWE Network.
Shifting the focus to the Royal Rumble Kickoff Panel of Renee Young, Michael Cole, Byron Saxton and Rey Mysterio, the four of them looked at the results of the event thus far, all noting that a championship had yet to change hands. “Looking at the Women’s Title match, it’s a win-lose situation in my eyes,” Mysterio stated before further elaborating. “AJ Lee is still the champion, which should be good news, but was Alexa Bliss’ point proven tonight? AJ didn’t resort to violence, but she still did use a weapon to help her get the victory.” Looking at the United States Championship match, Cole said that while Miz did retain the gold, he still is an unproven champion in the eyes of many. “Had it not been for Maryse, it’s not likely that The Miz would’ve walked away with the United States Title intact. Yes, he won. Yes, he’s still champion. But did he deserve any of that? It’s questionable, certainly.” Lastly, Saxton said that on the subject of outside involvement, Bray Wyatt may always regret not having at least one Wyatt Family member by his side tonight. “Wyatt went in alone against CM Punk and he lost. Think about what that has to do to the psyche of Wyatt going forward. We say that now, a Wyatt Family member must become Universal Champion tonight, but now that he knows he won’t be the Intercontinental Champion, how would Wyatt react? Think about what happened to Evolution when Randy Orton became World Heavyweight Champion. Triple H couldn’t stand the idea of somebody who was supposed to be beneath him being the center of attention. I can’t imagine Wyatt’s God complex allowing Harper, Rowan or even Paige to celebrate being Universal Champion.” When Renee Young attempted to send things back over to Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves, the man who had been seen a few times back in December ran into the picture, out of breath while asking for water. “Who… Who are you?” Renee asked. “My name is Mojo Rawley! My dream is to be a WWE superstar and I KNOW that I have what it takes to make it! I can offer a level of energy that is unmatched! I know I might be getting annoying, but all I’m asking for is the chance to prove myself. WWE Universe! I need your help! #SignMojo! Let’s get that trending! I want to see it up there! Stephanie! Shane! Let’s make this thing happen because I don’t get hyped! I stay hyped!” At that moment, Mojo noticed security guards running after him. Mojo bolted out of the arena, leaving the Kickoff Panel to wonder just what the hell had happened.
Kicking off the second half of the Royal Rumble was the sound of Enzo Amore's entrance music. The defending Hardcore Champion ran out onto the stage, the WWE Universe members in Pittsburgh going wild for him. "My name is Enzo Amore and I am a certified G and a bonafide stud and you can't! Teach! That! And this right... Somewhere in the back getting ready to become Universal Champion is Big Cass, and he's seven foot tall and you can't! Teach! That! Bada boom1 Realest guys in the room! How you doing?!? I've made it clear as daylight since I won this Hardcore Title that I'd be willing to defend it against anyone at anytime. So what happened? A couple haters stepped up to the plate and I knocked their lights out. Now, a guy who looks like he hasn't seen light wants to try his hand at dethroning this G. I never thought it'd happen, but I found someone who's more of a nutjob since I am! Matt Hardy, you call yourself 'Broken?' The only broken is gonna be your dome when my fists start flying. You say that you're going to delete me? The only thing that's gonna be deleted is any chance you have of ever being the better Hardy Boy. You're coming into my territory and you're finna get your teeth stomped in. So, Matt Hardy... There's only ONE word to describe you and since you look like you're hooked on something else instead of Phonics, I'm gonna spell! It! Out for you! S! A! W! F! T!" Enzo shouted before raising the microphone so that the Pittsburgh crowd could recite the word for him. Enzo removed the Hardcore Title from his waist, handing it over to the official while he waited for Hardy to make his return to WWE after four years. The lights soon shut as the fans in Pittsburgh popped for the signal of Hardy's arrival. "... Royal Rumble! I knew you'd come!" said Hardy over the speakers. Following that, a piano version of his WWE theme song began playing before 'The Broken One' walked through the curtain. Hardy smiled from ear-to-ear while spreading his arms out, declaring that he was "home." "Ah yes! Wonderful!" Hardy yelled out towards the fans who cheered for him. "Matt Hardy built his name here in WWE. One-half of one of the greatest tag teams in history along with Jeff Hardy. A former United States, ECW, Cruiserweight and European Champion. Somewhere along the way, however, everything changed for him. No longer Matt Hardy, Version 1. What we have here before us at the Royal Rumble is a broken man. 'Broken' Matt Hardy, to be exact, and his one goal right now is to render Enzo Amore as obsolete," Mauro Ranallo said. When the bell sounded, both competitors stared at each other intensively, Enzo acting as the serious one in the situation while Hardy maniacally laughed. Enzo made the first move, striking Hardy with his right fist repeatedly until the returning superstar rolled out of the ring. Enzo ran the ropes and attempted to deliver a Baseball Slide, but Hardy sidestepped him. Hardy then proceeded to throw Enzo face-first into the steel ring post before turning towards the crowd with his smile still as wide as ever. "This... Is... Disturbing," was the only phrase that Corey Graves could utter as Hardy hit Enzo in the forehead over and over again while yelling out, "Delete! Delete! Delete!" like a madman. Hardy turned to the hardcore stipulation for the first time in the match, pulling a trashcan out from underneath the ring. Hardy raised the trashcan, but Enzo was able to prevent the shot by catching Hardy in the mid-section with an elbow. Hardy dropped the trashcan, allowing Enzo to claim it and place it over the body of 'The Broken One.' Blind for the moment, Hardy unknowingly backed against the ring apron. That gave Enzo the opening to Dropkick the trash can, Hardy falling over onto the floor. Enzo rolled Hardy into the ring, heading to the top rope for an Elbow Drop. Enzo connected his elbow with Hardy's chest, but Hardy managed to kick out. Enzo returned to ringside, opening up the ring skirt to look for the necessary tools to defeat someone as deranged as Hardy. The defending champion brought out two steel chairs, but when he tried to re-enter the ring, Hardy stuck his head out through the ropes and started biting Enzo! Enzo was able to shove Hardy away before checking his forehead for any potential wounds. Hardy went after Enzo, who caught him with a huge right hand shot. Enzo picked up one of the steel chairs and smacked it across Hardy's back before looking underneath the ring one more time. Enzo brought out a weapon that Hardy was more than familiar with - a ladder. Enzo set up a contraption with each end of the ladder resting on the two chairs, bringing Hardy up onto the ring apron. Enzo had a Neckbreaker in mind, but Hardy retaliated with body shots to free himself. After kicking Enzo in the mid-section, Hardy placed him in position for a Side Effect, delivering it onto the ladder! Enzo's back managed to snap the ladder in half, Hardy covering him to get the three count and make his return to WWE a successful one.MATT HARDY IS THE NEW HARDCORE CHAMPION! A mixed response emerged from the audience in Pittsburgh as Matt Hardy rose to his feet, smiling like he did throughout the entire match. "Mission accomplished!" Hardy yelled out, pronouncing the phrase as, "Mee-shin oh-complished!" Hardy was handed the Hardcore Championship, which he put in his mouth before raising his arms in celebration. Hardy put the title on his shoulder, proceeding to move his arm in the "Delete!" motion while yelling out the word repeatedly. "In his first match in WWE in almost four years, Matt Hardy and his 'Broken Brilliance' have done it. Hardy delivered on his promise to 'delete' Enzo Amore's championship reign," Mauro Ranallo said. While the official checked on the condition of Enzo, Hardy made his way up the entrance ramp, talking to himself while doing so. "This is only the beginning. With the Championship of the Hardcore in my possession now, my message can be spread throughout the entire world! Obsolete you are, Enzo Amore! OBSOLETE!"
Backstage, Cathy Kelley was standing by with the man who announced on the Kickoff Show that he will be competing in the Royal Rumble match, John Cena. When Cena stepped into the picture, boos and cheers could be heard in the Consol Energy Center. Cathy asked Cena what's more important to him - Being the first Universal Champion, or proving to the 'New Era' that he is still 'The Face That Runs the Place?' "It's both, if I'm being honest. Being the Universal Champion is everything to me because a new championship in the WWE means that my résumé won't be complete until I have it. And being the first-ever champion accomplishes what you just mentioned, which is that the 'New Era' needs to understand that I'm not going anywhere. There is no 'New Era' until the 'John Cena Era' is up, and trust me. It's far from over. I'm not taking anything away from the talent that people like Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens, Derrick Bateman and Bobby Roode posses. But it's people like them who always try to make their names at the expense of mine. For over a decade, I had to prove that I deserved everything I've ever worked. Now, it's time for the next generation to prove that they're better than me, and that's not happening. For everybody who chants, 'Let's go, Cena,' I hope I make you proud. For everybody who chants, 'Cena sucks,' y'al better get them vocal chords warmed up because it's gonna be a long night. I came here tonight to win the Royal Rumble for the second time in my career and become Universal Champion, and that's what I'm gonna do. Why? Because I'm John Cena. Recognize!"
Cutting to another camera, Seth Rollins was shown walking down a corridor with Triple H to his left. "One of the two challengers in the upcoming WWE Championship match. He earned his spot here tonight at TLC, thanks to that man right beside him," Mauro Ranallo said. Next, Dean Ambrose was shown near the gorilla position, cracking his knuckles and neck. "The winner of the first-ever Manifest Destiny. Ambrose locked down his spot in this match at Survivor Series, but had to go the extra mile to make sure that story remained." Lastly, the defending WWE Champion, AJ Styles, was shown in the locker room area putting on his hood. "The reigning, defending WWE Champion. In just a matter of months, AJ Styles went from the hottest free agent in professional wrestling to the WWE's marquee superstar. This is the toughest challenge of his career up to this point. Two challengers who are looking for their first WWE Championship reign. Two dreams will be crushed while one lives one. Who will solidify himself as the 'Ace' of WWE?" That lead into a video package featuring "Ace of Spades" by Motörhead to highlight the road to this match-up. At Survivor Series, Ambrose defeated Rollins in the finals of Manifest Destiny to earn a WWE Championship opportunity at the Royal Rumble. Later on that evening, Styles cashed-in his Money in the Bank contract during a title match between Cody Rhodes and Brock Lesnar, winning his first WWE Championship in the process. The rivalry between Ambrose and Rollins resulted in a one-on-one match at TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs in which Ambrose's title shot was on the line. Thanks to outside interference from Triple H - who still holds a grudge against Ambrose for the Committee/Uprising feud - Rollins was successful in defeating Ambrose to take his Royal Rumble title shot for himself. "Playing for the high one / Dancing with the devil / Going with the flow / It's all a game to me." When Styles and Rollins met on the final 2013 edition of RAW to sign the contract for their match, Ambrose made his return by literally breaking through the canvas with a chainsaw. Ambrose pinned Rollins to the canvas while holding the chainsaw over him, threatening to decapitate 'The Architect of the Future.' Dario Cueto intervened, however, and added Ambrose to the bout to make it a Triple Threat. Since then, all three men have worked at gaining the upper-hand over the other two. On SmackDown two nights, Rollins was the one who asserted his dominance after taking Styles and Ambrose out with steel chairs and Curb Stomps. "The only thing you see / You know it's gonna be / The Ace of Spades / The Ace of Spades." During the conclusion of the video package, voiceovers of all three superstars guaranteeing to leave Pittsburgh as the WWE Champion played. The final shot was of Triple H raising Rollins' arm at TLC, making it clear that 'The Game' very easily can be the deciding factor in all of this. The intro to Seth Rollins' music sounded as half of the Consol Energy Center erupted while the other half booed relentlessly. Rollins, who earned his title opportunity by defeating Dean Ambrose at TLC, made his way out to the stage in white and gold gear, 'The Game' Triple H accompanying him as expected. "Triple H said it himself that the entire time he was looking for the WWE's next 'Ace,' it was Seth Rollins who he should've been paying attention to. Triple H is here tonight to prove that he wasted his time trying to groom AJ Styles over the summer. All Rollins needs to prove Triple H's point is the WWE Championship, and he's only a three count away from making that happen," said Corey Graves. Rollins stepped into the ring while Triple H could be seen clapping at ringside, the former COO ready to watch his new golden boy be crowned the WWE Champion. Rollins kept his eyes locked on the stage as he knew that the next superstar to emerge from it would be the man who will do anything to make him suffer. Dean Ambrose's entrance theme sounded to an absolutely thunderous ovation from the WWE Universe. 'The Lunatic Fringe' marched down to the ring with authority, knowing that because of Rollins, he almost wasn't a part of this match. As soon as Ambrose slid into the ring, he went after Rollins! Not even waiting for the bell nor the final competitor in the match, Ambrose unloaded with a series of shots to Rollins before running the rope for a Suicide Dive onto Triple H! After Ambrose took out 'The Game,' he turned around and saw Rollins leaping over the top rope with a Tope Con Hilo! Instead of backing away from Ambrose, Rollins held his own against the Manifest Destiny winner. The two of them rose to their feet and continued trading blows, their brawl spilling to the side of the ring where the announce tables were. At that point, AJ Styles' entrance music sounded as the WWE Universe went ballistic. The WWE Champion ran down to the ring, his first move being to springboard off of the top rope and crash onto Rollins and Ambrose with a Shooting Star Press! Styles sprang to his feet and stood on the announce table, spreading his arms out to the mass approval of Pittsburgh. Styles stepped back down onto the floor and rolled both Rollins and Ambrose back into the ring in order to get the match officially started. Styles attempted the Phenomenal Forearm to Rollins, but 'The Architect of the Future' avoided it. Styles landed on his feet, only to be kicked in the mid-section by Ambrose. Styles was planted with Dirty Deeds, Ambrose then nearly falling victim to a Curb Stomp. Ambrose caught Rollins in position for a Powerbomb, which Rollins countered by performing a Hurricanrana over the top rope. When Ambrose got to his feet at ringside, Rollins launched himself out of the ring with a Suicide Dive. Rollins went for another one, but as he was running, Styles hoisted him onto his shoulders for a Fireman's Carry into a Neckbreaker. Styles leaped over the top rope, Ambrose able to move out of the way. Ambrose grabbed Styles by his head and attempted to throw him into the time keeper's, but the WWE Champion turned the tables and sent Ambrose over the barricade instead. Styles backed away from the barricade, giving him enough room to gain speed and jump into the time keeper's area with a forearm to Ambrose! With Styles and Ambrose down, Rollins began stirring back in the ring. Rollins ascended to the top turnbuckle, waiting patiently for Styles and Ambrose to get back up. Once they did so, Rollins jumped from the turnbuckle all the way to the time keeper's area! All three men were down now while the WWE Universe went wild and showed their appreciation for the hellacious contest. Rollins was the first of the three to show signs of life, crawling out of the time keeper's area and towards the ring. Ambrose followed him, 'The Lunatic Fringe' wanting desperately get his hands on Rollins again. Rollins used the ring skirt to help him up, backing against the ring apron as Ambrose charged towards him. Rollins fended Ambrose off by low blowing him before throwing his face onto the surface of the announce table. Rollins took apart the table, Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves getting out of the way. With Ambrose's knees and face down on the table, Rollins stepped onto the Spanish announce table and intended on Curb Stomping Ambrose. When Rollins jumped from table-to-table, Ambrose got to his feet and kicked him. Ambrose proceeded to deliver Dirty Deeds onto the announce table! Rollins' head bounced off of the surface before he fell onto the floor. Ambrose remained down on the table, taking a moment to catch his breath. By that point, Styles had made his way back into the ring, returning to the same spot he was at the start of the match. Styles springboarded off of the top rope for a 450 Splash, but Ambrose moved out of harm's way! Styles crashed his ribs onto the edge of the announce table, the audience reacting to the thud that Styles' body and the table created. Styles squirmed around in pain as Ambrose grabbed Rollins, rolling him into the ring. Ambrose headed to the top rope and hit an Elbow Drop onto a standing Rollins, covering him for a two count. Ambrose returned to his ruthless-style offense, hammering away with strikes to Rollins. After Rollins scurried away into a corner, Ambrose charged into him with a splash before Irish Whipping him into a corner. Ambrose delivered another splash to Rollins before rolling him onto the canvas. Ambrose slid out to ringside and looked underneath the ring to bring out a table that got the Pittsburgh audience fired up. Ambrose set the table up between the ring and commentators before looking for yet another weapon. Before he could a get a hold of anything, Triple H turned him around and planted him with a Pedigree! "This is what we've known all along! 'The Game' is about to establish Seth Rollins as the present and future of professional wrestling!" Corey Graves shouted, Mauro Ranallo saying that if Rollins' first WWE Championship comes solely because of Triple H, Rollins' potential legacy will forever be tarnished. Hunter rolled Ambrose into the squared circle before heading out to the side of the ring where the entrance ramp lead to. Hunter brought a table out from underneath the ring, the second one to be set up at ringside. After standing the table up on its legs, Hunter joined Rollins in the ring. After the two fist bumped each other, AJ Styles leaped into the ring with a springboard Clothesline to the duo! Hunter rolled towards the ropes as Styles stepped onto the ring apron, where Ambrose was trying to use the ropes to get to his feet. "Hey!" Styles shouted to Ambrose as he pointed to Hunter and the table that was set up behind them. "No way..." Graves uttered as Styles and Ambrose glared at each other before nodding their heads. "They're not allies by any means, but the enemy of the enemy is my friend in this scenario!" Ranallo stated as Styles and Ambrose brought Hunter up for a Suplex through the table! Styles and Ambrose headed back into the ring, seemingly understanding that they needed to work together if they wanted to take Hunter and Rollins out of the equation. Rollins dodged Clotheslines from the two of them before running the ropes. Styles and Ambrose were able to lift Rollins into the air with a Back Body Drop that sent him out of the ring and through the other table that was set up! "Seth Rollins' body just shattered that table!" Ranallo shouted, no hyperboles used as Rollins genuinely decimated the table with his skin and bones. Back in the ring, Ambrose rolled Styles up by surprise, getting a two count out of it. When Ambrose got back to his feet, Styled caught him with an elbow to the face. Ambrose rebounded off of the ropes, nearly taking the champion's head off with the Nigel Lariat! Ambrose backed into a corner and ripped a part of his jeans open to expose his right knee. 'The Lunatic Fringe' charged towards Styles for the Boma Ye, but the WWE Champion grabbed his leg and applied the Calf Killer! Half of the WWE Universe called for Ambrose to submit, while the other half pleaded with him to hold on. Ambrose managed to get near the ropes, but Styles released the hold temporarily to pull him back into the center of the ring! Ambrose raised his hand and gave thought to submit, but instead slammed his fist onto the canvas and once again tried to break the hold. Fortunately for him, Rollins was back in the ring and broke the submission himself. Rollins held his back while stomping away on both Styles and Ambrose before picking up 'The Lunatic Fringe' for what looked to be a Pedigree. Ambrose, however, twisted his way out of the maneuver and placed Rollins in position for Dirty Deeds. Styles would then springboard off of the second rope, taking Ambrose out with an Inverted DDT while Rollins was simultaneously hit with Dirty Deeds! All three men were down on the canvas while the fans in Pittsburgh rose to their feet to show their appreciation for a classic WWE Championship bout. "This is awesome!" chanted the masses while the three superstars each crawled to different sides of the ring. They all met in the center to exchange blows in a spot similar to the one seen earlier in the United States Championship match. At one point, Styles and Rollins delivered strikes to Ambrose at the same time, the Manifest Destiny winner trying to answer back with the Nigel Lariat. Right before Ambrose delivered the Clotheslines, he was caught simultaneously with a Pele Kick and Superkick! Ambrose went down before Styles kicked Rollins in the mid-section to set up the Styles Clash. However, Triple H slid back into the ring and took 'The Phenomenal One' out with a chop block! Hunter took Rollins' hand and helped him up to his feet before exiting the ring to grab the weapon that he was synonymous with - a sledgehammer. Hunter handed it over to Rollins, who was waiting patiently for the WWE Champion to get back up. Ambrose charged into Rollins and Hunter, the former dropping the sledgehammer. Ambrose took the weapon for himself, striking 'The Game' in the side of the head with it! Ambrose turned around and gave Rollins a shot to the ribs with the sledgehammer before delivering one more Dirty Deeds! Ambrose couldn't capitalize immediately as he was forced to crawl towards Rollins. While Ambrose was crawling, Styles landed on his back with a springboard 450 Splash! Styles quickly rose to his feet, his knee clearly ready to give in at any moment after Triple H's chop block. Styles was able to preserver and connect with the Styles Clash, rolling Ambrose over for the three count!AJ STYLES IS STILL THE WWE CHAMPION! Speechless and breathless. The only two words that could sum up the feelings of everybody who had just witnessed an all-time classic Triple Threat bout for professional wrestling's top prize. Despite winning the match, AJ Styles remained on the canvas after pinning Dean Ambrose, unable to get back onto his feet right away. The official had to help Styles up before handing him the WWE Championship that 'The Phenomenal One' raised to the approval of Pittsburgh. "You listen to that reaction and you ask yourself, 'After all that AJ Styles has done since coming to WWE, why is he loved? How can people cheer him?' He never changed his attitude, but he continues to prove that he truly is the greatest professional wrestler on the planet today! THAT is how you win over the WWE Universe! With lifetime performances like the one we just saw from AJ Styles, who will be leaving the Royal Rumble still the WWE Champion!" Mauro Ranallo stated to shed some light on the evolution of the audience's reactions to Styles. Two tables, Dean Ambrose, Seth Rollins and Triple H were all laid out in and around the ring as Styles made his way up the entrance ramp, limping after going through hell and back against two of the WWE's absolute best. Ultimately, it's 'The Phenomenal One' who remains the WWE Champion and is in the driver's seat to carry the gold into WrestleMania XXX!
At this time, the second WrestleMania XXX promo of the evening was shown that featured another Bring Me the Horizon track, this one being "Follow You." Unlike the other promo that focused solely on male talent, this one took a look at the five women who have helped shape the division into what it is today. AJ Lee, Kaitlyn, Sofia Cortez, Alexa Bliss and Paige. Highlights of the five women were shown to emphasize just how much WrestleMania this year means to the division, and the kind of hell they've all put themselves through in the name of the WWE Women's Championship. "So you can drag me through hell / If it meant I could hold your hand / I will follow you 'cause I'm under your spell / And you can throw me to the flames / I will follow you / I will follow you." After a shot of AJ holding up the Women's Championship was shown, a graphic appeared that read, "The biggest night in the history of the women's division. WrestleMania XXX, 70 days away."
Returning to the live feed on the Royal Rumble Pay-Per-View, Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves were still at a loss for words after the Triple Threat match for the WWE Championship. "AJ Styles holds onto the WWE Championship, but Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins succeeded in making their cases as to why they're cornerstones of the WWE's future, even if the latter had a helping hand from Triple H," Ranallo said. "AJ Styles is the WWE Champion, but the question remains as to who will be the WWE Universal Champion? We're only moments away from finding out because the time has come, ladies and gentlemen. It only happens once a year. Buckle up and get ready because the Road to WrestleMania starts now," Graves said before the 'By the Numbers' video package aired for the Royal Rumble match. After the statistics were once again hammered into the heads of the WWE Universe members, the voiceover in the video emphasized how the stakes are different this year compared to previous Royal Rumble matches. The winner will not only main event WrestleMania, but will do so as the first-ever WWE Universal Champion. Thrice's "Black Honey" played while clips of all of the announced participants aired. "I'll rip and smash through the hornet's nest / Don't you understand I deserve the best / But I'll do what I want, do what I please / I'll do it again 'til I got what I need." Concluding the video was a recap of what transpired at the end of RAW last Monday. After a contest between Randy Orton and Kevin Owens ended in chaos, Orton found himself standing tall with two other favorites in this match, Cody Rhodes and Chris Jericho. The three of them were then ambushed by The Wyatt Family before each were taken out with Bicycle Knees from Paige, who has positioned herself as potentially the first woman in WWE history to win the Royal Rumble, hold a Heavyweight Championship and headline WrestleMania. Only one superstar can leave tonight with his or her name forever etched in history as the first-ever WWE Universal Champion. Somebody is about to get the biggest win of their careers. Who will be 'The One?' "I keep swinging my hand through a swarm of bees 'cause I... / I want honey on my table..."
After Justin Roberts ran down the rules of the Royal Rumble match, the entrance music of Vince McMahon sounded to a thunderous response from the fans in Pittsburgh. Accompanied by Shane and Stephanie McMahon - the Commissioners of SmackDown Live and RAW respectively - Vince made his way down to the ring with the WWE Universal Championship in his possession. "After all is said and done, one superstar will have his or her arm raised while holding that very championship," Corey Graves stated before Vince placed the Universal Title on a podium that was set up at ringside. Vince, Shane and Stephanie all took their seats near the announce table to watch along with the rest of the WWE Universe. Who will be the first-ever WWE Universal Champion?
Entrant #1: Chris Jericho
The entrance music of Chris Jericho hit as the fans in Pittsburgh roared for the arrival of 'Y2J.' For the first time in his career, Jericho would be entering the Royal Rumble match at number one. "In 2003, Jericho came in at number two and lasted 38 minutes and 54 seconds. Jericho has the endurance to make it all the way to the end, and Daniel Bryan's performance last year showed once again that you never count somebody out just because they're number one," Mauro Ranallo said. Despite having the deck stacked against him, Jericho didn't appear to be upset, but rather excited as he greeted the fans in the front row before stepping into the ring. Jericho is number one, and now, it was time to find out who would be starting the match with him.
Entrant #2: Samoa Joe
The second that his name appeared on the titantron, the fans in the Consol Energy Center completely lost it. "NO WAY!" Corey Graves shouted right as the final TNA World Heavyweight Champion and the longest-reigning ROH World Champion headed out onto the stage. "'The Samoan Submission Machine' has arrived! Samoa Joe is in the Royal Rumble match!" Mauro Ranallo screamed, barely able to contain his excitement before analyzing some of Joe's accomplishments in professional wrestling. "Joe once held the Ring of Honor World Championship for 21 months! The final TNA World Heavyweight Champion who went undefeated for over a year! His bouts with the likes of AJ Styles, Daniel Bryan, CM Punk, Kurt Angle and Kenta Kobashi among others are regarded as some of the best in the history of this industry, and now, Joe is here in WWE and he's looking to become the first-ever Universal Champion!" Chants of, "Joe's gonna kill you!" rained down form the audience towards Jericho as Joe stepped into the squared circle. The bell to begin the 2014 Royal Rumble match sounded as Jericho and Joe circled the ring for a bit, the WWE Universe still trying to wrap their heads around the fact that 'The Samoan Submission Machine' was competing in WWE. The two engaged in a collar-and-elbow tie up, Jericho powering Jericho against the ropes. Jericho held on for dear life as he thought Joe was going to try to eliminate him, but Joe instead backed away and, almost in a mocking manner, patted 'Y2J' on his chest. "Come one," Joe said with his hands as Jericho kicked him in the side of his leg. Jericho tried to Irish Whip Joe into the ropes, but Joe countered it and nearly applied the Coquina Clutch! Jericho, however, was able to slide out of it, going underneath Joe. When Joe turned around, Jericho delivered a Dropkick. 'Y2J' ascended to the top rope, intending come down with a Clothesline. He managed to do so, but at the same time, it appeared that he inadvertently butted heads with Joe. Both superstars were down for a moment while the countdown for entrant number three came up.
Entrant #3: Bo Rotundo Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Bo Rotundo
The man who has been on a quest to find a new tag team partner had to think about himself for once if he wanted to become the WWE Universal Champion. Bo Rotundo ran down to the ring, but took a microphone when he did so. "Jericho, I know that you and I have our differences and you weren't a fan of my idea for us to become tag team partners. However, I just want you to know that I still wish you luck tonight! And Joe, the pleasure of meeting you is all mine, trust me! I know that you aren't known for being a team player necessarily, but just think about what you and I could accomplish as a team! Together, we could be... Samoa Bo! Just think about it, but until then, good luck to you as well. The both of you have all of the potential in the world to win this match, just like I do! All we have to do... Is Bo-lieve!" The fans showered Bo with boos as he raised both arms in the air, his promo wrapping up in time for the fourth superstar to enter the match.
Entrant #4: Antonio Cesaro Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Bo Rotundo, Antonio Cesaro
A superstar who has quickly been on the rise ever since beginning his solo career, Antonio Cesaro, was the next individual to enter the battle for the WWE Universal Championship. "This is perfect! We can be Cesar-Bo!" said Bo excitedly, not expecting Cesaro to springboard off of the second rope and catch him with an Uppercut! Cesaro picked Bo up from canvas and threw him over the top rope to rack up the first elimination in the match! Bo Rotundo has been eliminated! With Bo out of the equation, Joe and Jericho got back to their feet, the two of them staring down Cesaro. 'The Swiss Superman' popped his neck before charging into Joe, taking him into a corner. Jericho leaped over Cesaro's back to hit Joe with his forearm, 'The Samoan Submission Machine' becoming the target at that point. Joe was able to fend off both superstars before placing Cesaro in the corner, hitting him with numerous chops and strikes. Joe sidestepped Jericho as he was running towards him, 'Y2J' accidentally ramming himself into Cesaro. Whem Jericho turned around, Joe caught him with an Enziguri! Joe rose to his feet and embraced the crowd's chants for him before the next entrant made his presence felt.
Entrant #5: Luke Harper Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper
The first of three Wyatt Family members to enter the Royal Rumble match. Luke Harper, who would be entering his first Rumble, stepped into the ring and stared down Joe, the fans in Pittsburgh going wild for the confrontation between the two tanks. Joe delivered the first shot, Harper responding with an elbow. The exchange continued until Joe headbutted Harper before running the ropes. Joe, however, was nearly decapitated by a Discus Lariat! Harper picked Joe up and attempted to eliminate him, but Joe managed to hang on. After Harper was struck with en elbow from Joe, he backed into the center of the ring and was taken down for the Cesaro Swing! However, Harper kicked Cesaro away, getting up to his feet in time to take 'The Swiss Superman' out with a Big Boot! Jericho jumped onto the back of Harper in an attempt to choke him out. Harper backed Jericho into a corner before charging into him with a splash.
Entrant #6: Rusev Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev
No longer was Luke Harper the only man on his feet in the Rumble match as 'The Bulgarian Brute' ran down to the ring. Immediately, Rusev dodged a Lariat from Harper and took him down with a Spinning Heel Kick! Rusev got back to his feet and caught Joe with a Superkick before turning his attention back to Harper. Rusev tried to eliminate the Wyatt Family member, but Harper managed to stay alive. Joe got to his feet near the ropes, Cesaro Dropkicking him over the top. Joe was able to land on the apron, Cesaro running towards him with an Uppercut. However, Joe caught Cesaro in position for the Coquina Clutch, just about choking the life out of him before re-entering the ring. Joe was immediately hit with a Codebreaker from Jericho before backing into the ropes. Jericho attempted to eliminate Joe, but wasn't able to get his body even over the top rope.
Entrant #7: Justin Gabriel Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Justin Gabriel
One of the last superstars to qualify for the Royal Rumble, Justin Gabriel, made his way into the action next. A former WWE Tag Team Champion, Gabriel was eager to shock the world and become Universal Champion. 'The Darewolf' jumped off of the top rope with a Crossbody onto Jericho, trying to go after 'Y2J' while staying out of the way of the larger participants like Joe, Harper and Rusev. Gabriel tried to take advantage of an opening to eliminate Cesaro, but 'The Swiss Superman' was able to hold onto the ropes. After kicking Gabriel away, Cesaro was able to throw him into the air for the Swiss Death! Jericho then grabbed Cesaro by his head, throwing him over the top rope. Cesaro held on and landed on the apron, allowing him to run onto the top rope and deliver a Missile Dropkick to Jericho.
Entrant #8: Baron Corbin Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Justin Gabriel, Baron Corbin
"When you think of dark horses in this match, you think of 'The Lone Wolf,'" Corey Graves stated while Baron Corbin marched down to the squared circle that was beginning to fill up with superstars. Corbin, who made it clear on SmackDown that his alliance with Derrick Bateman is nonexistent in this bout, took Cesaro down with a Clothesline before grabbing Jericho by his neck and throwing him into a corner. Gabriel springboarded into the clutches of Corbin before being planted on his face with the End of Days! Corbin picked Gabriel and threw him out to ringside with ease. Justin Gabriel has been eliminated! Corbin turned around and was kicked in the mid-section by Rusev, 'The Bulgarian Brute' looking for revenge after what Corbin did to both him and Braun Strowman on RAW this past Monday. In a corner, Harper continued to try to eliminate Joe, but 'The Samoa Submission Machine' held on. He even managed to place Harper on the top turnbuckle, setting him up for the Muscle Buster before successfully executing it for the first time in a WWE ring.
Entrant #9: Tyler Breeze Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze
Another surprise entrant as NXT's Tyler Breeze made his way into the Royal Rumble match. Competing for the first time since capturing the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Championship, 'Prince Pretty' slid into the squared circle and immediately took Cesaro out with the Beauty Shot! Breeze followed up with a Supermodel Kick to Jericho before throwing him over the top rope, 'Y2J' hanging on to avoid elimination. Breeze worked over Cesaro in a corner while Jericho re-entered the ring, trying to assist Rusev in eliminating Corbin. 'The Lone Wolf' fended off both superstars before delivering a massive End of Days to Rusev! Corbin picked Rusev up off of the canvas, but somehow, ‘The Bulgarian Brute’ was able to hang onto the ropes and prevent his elimination.
Entrant #10: Big Cass Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Big Cass
While Enzo Amore failed to retain his Hardcore Championship earlier tonight, Big Cass was still in the running for the WWE Universal Championship. Cass entered the ring and ran into Corbin with a Big Boot before running the ropes and delivering an Elbow Drop onto Harper. “How you doin’?!?” Cass shouted to the masses before Cesaro ran up to him behind, attempting to eliminate the much-larger Cass. In a corner, Joe hit Jericho with a few knife-edge chops before going for the elimination, ‘Y2J’ able to hang on. Breeze stomped away on Rusev before trying to get him over the top rope, but the dead weight of Rusev was too much for ‘Prince Pretty’ to get up off of the mat.
Entrant #11: Erick Rowan Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Big Cass, Erick Rowan
No longer was Harper alone in this. Erick Rowan, the second of three Wyatt Family members competing for the Universal Title, made his way down to the ring and immediately hit Cass with a Spinning Heel Kick. Rowan helped Harper up to his feet and together, the two charged into Cass and sent him out to the floor. Big Cass is eliminated! Harper and Rowan stared down at Cass and raised their arms, Joe and Cesaro unexpectedly grabbing the two of them and delivered German Suplexes! Joe ran the ropes and delivered a Senton to Harper, while Cesaro planted both of his feet onto the chest of Rowan. Harper got to his feet and backed into the ropes, Joe Clotheslining him over. Harper held onto the ropes as only one foot of his touched the floor. Harper lifted himself back up onto the apron, re-entering the ring and ramming Joe into a corner.
Entrant #12: Derrick Bateman Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman
He tried to position himself at number 30 back when he had the authority to do so. He was then prevented from entering the match all together. Ultimately, Derrick Bateman came into the Royal Rumble match at number 12. Cameras showed Vince and Shane McMahon watching from ringside in disgust, neither wanting to potentially present the man who tried to ruin their lives with the Universal Championship. Bateman entered the ring and didn’t initially go after anybody, watching the action from a corner while biding his time. It didn’t take long for Bateman to become a target as Cesaro charged into him with an Uppercut! Cesaro lifted Bateman up, but Bateman was able to hang onto the turnbuckle and strike Cesaro away. The dazed Bateman walked into the center of the ring to be met by right hand shots from Joe. Jericho then hit Bateman with an Enziguri, Bateman falling to the canvas and rolling towards the ropes.
Entrant #13: Heath Slater Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Heath Slater
A superstar who guaranteed victory in the Royal Rumble match, Heath Slater ran down to the ring and attempted to shove Joe over the top rope to no avail. Joe turned around and took a few steps towards Slater, who was trying his best to apologize to 'The Samoan Submission Machine.' Corbin would then grab Joe by his head, throwing him into a corner. Corbin proceeded to stomp away on Joe while Harper targeted Rusev. Cesaro attempted to swing Jericho before he was hit with a Supermodel Kick from Breeze. The IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion threw Cesaro over the top rope, celebrating too early as Cesaro had not been eliminated. Cesaro re-entered the ring and turned Breeze around, taking him down for the Cesaro Swing! 'The Swiss Superman' swung Breeze around nearly twenty times before stopping, appearing to be dazed. Nonetheless, Cesaro brushed the feeling off and took Breeze around for another few rotations before finally stopping.
Entrant #14: James Ellsworth Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Heath Slater, James Ellsworth
"Who the hell invited this loser?!?" Corey Graves shouted as James Ellsworth, the individual who was decimated by Braun Strowman a number of weeks ago, made his way out to a great response from Pittsburgh. A social media campaign had been launched by the WWE Universe to get Ellsworth into the Royal Rumble match, and it paid off as the man himself was about to enter the squared circle. Ellsworth, who declared that any man with two hands has a fighting chance, turned Slater around and delivered a quick jab that rocked 'The One Man Band.' Ellsworth was then slapped by Slater, who didn't take kindly whatsoever to the unsigned competitor humiliating him. Slater charged towards Ellsworth, who held down the top rope to eliminate him! Heath Slater has been eliminated! "No! No! Somebody needs to do something about this! This is not right! The record books cannot forever show that James freakin' Ellsworth scored an elimination in the Royal Rumble!" cried Graves while Slater tried to re-enter the ring, the officials not allowing him to. Ellsworth put his hands on his head, shocked at the fact that he managed to get an elimination. Ellsworth looked at the WrestleMania XXX sign that loomed over the ring, taking his own advice literally at that moment - "Any man with two hands has a fighting chance..."
Entrant #15: Paige Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, James Ellsworth, Paige
At the halfway mark in the Royal Rumble match, the final member of The Wyatt Family made her presence felt as the Pittsburgh audience nearly blew the roof off of the Consol Energy Center for her. When the lights came back on, Paige was in the ring, standing behind Ellsworth. 'The Anti-Diva' turned Ellsworth around and drilled him with a Bicycle Knee! Ellsworth backed against the ropes, Paige charging into him with a Clothesline that eliminated him. James Ellsworth has been eliminated! Paige stared at Ellsworth with her lifeless eyes before turning her attention back towards the action, grouping with Harper and Rowan. The three Wyatt Family members stuck together at that point, targeting Joe, Cesaro and Jericho, the three longest-tenured superstars in the match up until then. "History can be made in more than one way tonight. Paige has the opportunity to become the first female superstar to ever win the Royal Rumble and headline WrestleMania," Ranallo said to remind the fans what's at stake for Paige.
Entrant #16: Dash Wilder Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Rusev, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder
While The Wyatt Family was just completed in this match-up, the pieces to The Revival began settling into place as Dash Wilder joined the action. Dash made sure to steer clear of The Wyatts, targeting Rusev instead. Dash hit Rusev with a few knife-edge chops before trying to Irish Whip him into the opposite corner. Rusev, however, held onto the ropes, pulling Dash in for an elbow. Rusev kicked Dash in the back of his head, looking to apply The Accolade. Before he could, Corbin charged into him and Clotheslined him out to the floor! Rusev has been eliminated! Corbin trash talked Rusev from the inside of the ring after managing to send 'The Bulgarian Brute' over the top rope for the second time this week. The fuming Rusev had no choice but to head to the back, his dream of becoming the first Universal Champion ironically crushed by 'The Lone Wolf.' Corbin brought Joe up to his feet and tried to eliminate 'The Samoan Submission Machine,' but Joe remained resilient and was able to hold on. "At this point, both Samoa Joe and Chris Jericho have been in the match for around half an hour, and Antonio Cesaro isn't too far behind them," said Graves.
Entrant #17: Sofia Cortez Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Sofia Cortez
While Paige has been the center of attention when it comes to a possible female winner here tonight, Sofia Cortez also had the chance to make that same history. Sofia ran into the ring and headed to the top rope, descending with a Crossbody onto Paige. The final Divas Champion struck away with shots to the head of Paige before Harper and Rowan grabbed her by her arms. Joe and Cesaro went after The Wyatts, which allowed Sofia and Paige to brawl on their own in the ring. Bateman whipped Jericho into a corner, 'Y2J' able to bounce off of the middle turnbuckle and take Bateman out with a forearm shot. On a different side of the ring, Corbin managed to get Breeze up off of the canvas and over the top rope, but 'Prince Pretty' set his feet down onto the apron and held onto the ropes while 'The Lone Wolf' attempted to shove him off.
Entrant #18: Braun Strowman Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Samoa Joe, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Baron Corbin, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Sofia Cortez, Braun Strowman
The list of juggernauts in the Royal Rumble became even bigger with the arrival of Braun Strowman, who had left his mark on WWE ever since debuting the night after TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs. Braun stepped over the top rope to join the action, immediately taking Cesaro out with a heavy Clothesline. Jericho leaped towards Braun, but was caught and thrown recklessly into a corner. Braun turned around and was caught with a strike from Corbin, 'The Lone Wolf' looking to eliminate the other superstar who he got the better of on RAW last week. Corbin was able to rock Braun, bringing him towards him for the End of Days. Braun fended off Corbin with a headbutt before pushing him into the ropes. Braun charged into Corbin with a Clothesline, officially eliminating him from Universal Championship contention. Baron Corbin has been eliminated! Braun was nearly in trouble thereafter as Joe almost applied the Coquina Clutch, but Braun backed him into a corner. Joe was stunned momentarily, allowing Braun to pick his legs up off of the canvas and throw him over the top rope! Samoa Joe has been eliminated! The fans in Pittsburgh were livid as Braun stood tall in the ring, Joe getting to his feet at ringside and staring him down with intensity in his eyes. "Take nothing away from Samoa Joe. One of the most decorated professional wrestlers on the planet today had an incredible WWE debut, but on this night, Braun Strowman just had his number," stated Graves. The final TNA World Heavyweight Champion will not become the first WWE Universal Champion, courtesy of Braun Strowman.
Entrant #19: Scott Dawson Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Sofia Cortez, Braun Strowman, Scott Dawson
Fortunately for Dash, his Revival teammate was the next to enter the Royal Rumble match. As soon as Scott Dawson slid into the ring, he and Dash took Jericho down to the canvas with Clotheslines before targeting Cesaro. 'The Swiss Superman,' who has had a few run ins with The Revival over the past two weeks, tried to retaliate against the duo before taking a chop block from Dawson. Together, the two of them delivered the Shatter Machine to Cesaro before Harper and Rowan went after them in a battle between the two tag teams in the bout. Paige whipped Sofia into the ropes, the latter springboarding off the middle one to plant Paige with the La Sicaria DDT! When Sofia got to her feet, Kaitlyn made her way out to ringside through the audience. Kaitlyn stepped onto the ring apron, but got right back off after Sofia swung her fist at her. That distraction from Kaitlyn allowed Bateman to grab Sofia and throw her over the top rope, getting the elimination as a favor for his girlfriend. Sofia Cortez has been eliminated!
Entrant #20: Cody Rhodes Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Braun Strowman, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes
The WWE Universe came unglued as Cody Rhodes ran down to the ring, the 2013 Superstar of the Year looking to start off 2014 the right way by becoming WWE Universal Champion. Rhodes immediately bounced out of a corner and delivered the Disaster Kick to Bateman before dodging shots from The Revival. Rhodes hit both Dash and Dawson with jabs before taking them down with Dropkicks. 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling' was able to sidestep Breeze, following up with Cross Rhodes to the IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion! Rhodes was then grabbed by Harper, but he was able to respond by stomping on the foot of the Wyatt Family member. Rhodes shoved Harper into Rowan before Paige charged towards him, Rhodes holding down the ropes. Paige fell onto the apron, able to roll back into the ring and keep her chances at becoming Universal Champion alive.
Entrant #21: Christian Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Braun Strowman, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Christian
After months of inactivity, 'Captain Charisma' was back in a WWE ring with the intention of becoming the first-ever Universal Champion and headline WrestleMania. Christian slid into the ring and blocked a strike from Bateman, hitting him with an Uppercut in response. Christian then grabbed Bateman's arms for the Killswitch, but was shoved away. Christian then took a Back Body Drop from Breeze, who wasn't allowed any time to capitalize since Bateman caught him with a Clothesline. When Bateman turned around, Jericho delivered a Codebreaker that sent him over the top rope. Bateman was able to hold onto the rope, Jericho trying his hand at the elimination yet again by springboarding out of a corner with a Dropkick to him. Bateman fell back, but kept one hand on the rope to make sure he didn't crash onto the floor. Bateman re-entereed the ring, Jericho continuing to work over him. Christian was back on his feet and tried to eliminate Breeze, but 'Prince Pretty' stayed alive. Rhodes' momentum would hit a roadblock at that point as his Disaster Kick had no effect on Braun, who picked Rhodes up for a two-handed Chokeslam.
Entrant #22: Brock Lesnar Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Antonio Cesaro, Luke Harper, Tyler Breeze, Erick Rowan, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Braun Strowman, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Christian, Brock Lesnar
At the sound of Brock Lesnar's entrance music, cameras showed Bateman's eyes bulge open as he knew that he was in trouble and his chances of winning the Royal Rumble were fading. Even with his injured leg in a brace, as Paul Heyman put it, Lesnar was still the, "Baddest mother f'er on the planet." 'The Beast Incarnate' marched down to the ring with authority, immediately charging towards Bateman! Lesnar took Bateman down and delivered several elbow strikes to the head, Bateman having to scurry away. Bateman grabbed Breeze and threw him towards Lesnar, who took 'Prince Pretty' and threw him into a corner with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex! Lesnar picked Breeze up and threw him out to the floor, a former IWGP Heavyweight Champion eliminating the current IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion. Tyler Breeze has been eliminated! Lesnar was then rushed by Rowan, who Lesnar managed to turn around and give a German Suplex to! When Rowan got to his feet, Lesnar Clotheslined him over the top rope! Erick Rowan has been eliminated! Lesnar would soon be turned around by Harper, who didn't even get a single bit of offense in before he was hoisted up for an F-5! Lesnar picked Harper and tossed him out of the ring with ease! Luke Harper has been eliminated! "Can anybody stop Brock Lesnar?!" Graves asked before 'The Conqueror' tried to find Bateman, who had slid underneath the bottom rope at that point. With Harper and Rowan eliminated by Lesnar, that meant that Paige was The Wyatt Family's final hope at securing the Universal Title and the main event spot at WrestleMania. When Lesnar tried going after Bateman, he was shoved to the mat by Braun! Lesnar sprang to his feet and charged Braun into a corner, hitting him with several shoulder thrusts. Braun hit Lesnar in the chest with a knee before picking him up onto his shoulder. Braun tried to throw Lesnar over the top rope, but Lesnar slid out of his grip. When Braun turned around, Lesnar took him out with a Clothesline over the top rope! Braun Strowman has been eliminated! In a matter of seconds, Lesnar was able to eliminate Breeze, Harper, Rowan and the undefeated Braun!
Entrant #23: Matt Riddle Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Antonio Cesaro, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Christian, Brock Lesnar, Matt Riddle
From Tough Enough to one of the greatest matches in NXT history with Jeff Cobb, to the Royal Rumble match, Matt Riddle had the opportunity of a lifetime to shock the world and become WWE Universal Champion in only his second professional bout. Riddle smiled during his walk to ringside before realizing that if he got into the squared circle, he would have to content with Lesnar. Instead, Riddle took a seat against the barricade, giving Lesnar a thumbs up and head nod. "You do you, bro!" Riddle told 'The Beast Incarnate,' who was trying to fend off The Revival. Lesnar threw Dawson across the ring with a Belly-to-Belly before delivering the F-5 to Dash. When Lesnar got to his feet, Bateman rolled into the ring with a steel chair that used to strike Lesnar in his injured leg! Lesnar dropped to one knee, Bateman continuing to fire away with chair shots to his back. Lesnar used the ropes to get to his feet, Bateman delivering one final, heavy shot to the back of Lesnar that sent him over the top rope and onto the floor! Brock Lesnar has been eliminated! "Oh! My! God!" Ranallo shouted while the WWE Universe members in Pittsburgh were just about ready to riot and put Bateman's head on a stick. Bateman dropped the chair and laughed to himself, Paul Heyman not sure how to react. Bateman looked over the top rope down to Heyman, giving Lesnar's advocate both of his middle fingers. "You son of a bitch!" Heyman shouted to Bateman, who pointed to the WrestleMania sign to indicate where Lesnar would NOT be heading. Bateman managed to eliminate the biggest threat in the entire match, Brock Lesnar. "If your pick to win this whole thing now isn't Bateman, then you're in denial that this man is the superstar to beat now in the Royal Rumble," Graves said.
Entrant #24: Tyson Kidd Still in ring: Chris Jericho, Antonio Cesaro, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Christian, Matt Riddle, Tyson Kidd
While the realization set in that Lesnar's chances at becoming the first-ever WWE Universal Champion were destroyed by Bateman, Tyson Kidd made his way down to the ring. Kidd, who had not been seen since his Tables, Ladders and Chairs match with Kevin Owens two weeks ago, springboarded off of the top rope and took The Revival down. Paige attempted to deliver a Superkick to Kidd, but her foot was caught. Kidd took Paige down to the canvas and attempted to apply the Sharpshooter, but was kicked away. With Kidd against the ropes, Jericho charged towards him, not forgetting their rivalry from around SummerSlam. Kidd lifted Jericho over his head, 'Y2J' landing on the apron. Christian ran towards Kidd, who sidestepped him. As a result, Christian inadvertently pushed Jericho off of the apron! Chris Jericho has been eliminated! When Christian turned around, Kidd hit him with a Dropkick that sent him out to the floor as well! Christian has been eliminated! While Kidd was already a proven entity at that point, the WWE Universe still reacted with shock as Kidd managed to eliminate two former World Champions in just a few seconds! Jericho got to his feet at ringside, he and Christian locking eyes before looking up at Kidd, who was exchanging blows with Rhodes in the ring. 'Y2J' kept his head down and headed up the entrance ramp, Christian taking a bit longer to do so.
Entrant #25: Adrian Neville Still in ring: Antonio Cesaro, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Matt Riddle, Tyson Kidd, Adrian Neville
'The Man that Gravity Forgot' was ready to make his impact in his first Royal Rumble match, immediately taking Bateman down with a forearm from the top rope. Neville hit The Revival with kicks to the chest, looking for revenge after being defeated by them on RAW last Monday. Neville delivered a standing Moonsault onto Dash before picking him up for the elimination. Dawson grabbed Neville by his trunks and pulled him back towards the center of the ring, successfully saving Dash from elimination. Cesaro was dazed a corner as Paige repeatedly charged into him before she was fended off with a boot to the face. Cesaro pushed Paige into the ropes and attempted the Swiss Death, but while Paige was being launched into the air, she connected with a Bicycle Knee! Cesaro fell back on to the canvas, Paige unable to capitalize since Kidd ran into her with a Sick Kick.
Entrant #26: Bobby Roode Still in ring: Antonio Cesaro, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Matt Riddle, Tyson Kidd, Adrian Neville, Bobby Roode
"Get ready, Mauro. It's time for the Royal Rumble match to become... 'Glorious!'" Graves yelled out as Bobby Roode entered the Rumble match at number 26. Roode immediately went after Rhodes, their rivaltry not yet finished despite 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling' getting a victory on RAW. Roode caught Rhodes with a knee to the mid-section before unsuccessfully attempting to eliminate him. Roode then turned his attention to Neville, running towards him and falling victim to a Hurricanrana. Neville wrapped his arms around the waist of Roode, planting him with a deadlift German Suplex! Paige approached Neville and kicked him in his kneecap before delivering a DDT. 'The Anti-Diva' rose to her feet, only for The Revival to strike her simultaneously. "Despite not having Harper or Rowan by her side, Paige is surprisingly holding her own," Ranallo noted after Paige was able to save herself from elimination at the hands of The Revival.
Entrant #27: Randy Orton Still in ring: Antonio Cesaro, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Matt Riddle, Tyson Kidd, Adrian Neville, Bobby Roode, Randy Orton
The number that has produced the most amount of Royal Rumble winners was owned this year by the man who won it all back in 2009. Randy Orton made his way down to ringside, observing the battlefield before turning his attention to the participant that everyone had seemingly forgotten about. 'The Viper' ran towards Riddle, driving his foot into his chest! Orton proceeded to stomp away on Riddle before throwing him into the ring. Orton turned Riddle around and planted him with an RKO before throwing him over the top rope. Matt Riddle has been eliminated! Orton then became the target of The Revival, the duo able to bring him down to one knee before attempting the Shatter Machine. Orton, however, countered the maneuver by DDT'ing Dash. Orton got to his feet and planted Dawson with a scoop Powerslam before coiling. Orton didn't care which member of The Revival got up first, but he was hellbent on taking at least one out with an RKO. That was not to be as Bateman kicked Orton in the ribs before striking him repeatedly while down on the canvas. Bateman hoisted Orton up onto his shoulders for a TKO, but Orton slid off and delivered his patented modified Backbreaker.
Entrant #28: Adam Cole Still in ring: Antonio Cesaro, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Tyson Kidd, Adrian Neville, Bobby Roode, Randy Orton, Adam Cole
Three participants were left to enter as Adam Cole made his way out to the stage, receiving a peck on the cheek from Lana before running down to the ring. The former NXT Champion's first move was to hit Paige with a Superkick before turning his attention to Orton, the superstar who defeated him on SmackDown two nights ago. Cole stomped on Orton furiously in a corner before taking the time to shout, "Adam Cole, bay bay!" to the masses in Pittsburgh. Neville approached Cole from behind and delivered a reverse Hurricanrana. When 'The Man That Gravity Forgot' rose to his feet, Roode grabbed him from behind and sent him flying over the top rope! Adrian Neville has been eliminated! "Glorious!" Roode yelled out to celebrate his first elimination in the match. He was then caught with the Disaster Kick from Rhode, who tried to follow up by eliminating 'The Glorious One.' Roode was able to hang on while Bateman and Cesaro entered dangerous territory by batting on the top rope. Bateman managed to shove Cesaro off, but 'The Swiss Superman' landed on the ring apron and kept his dream of becoming Universal Champion alive.
Entrant #29: John Cena Still in ring: Antonio Cesaro, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Dash Wilder, Scott Dawson, Cody Rhodes, Tyson Kidd, Bobby Roode, Randy Orton, Adam Cole, John Cena
When John Cena announced during the Royal Rumble Kickoff that he would be entering the Royal Rumble match, a lot of WWE Universe members' predictions changed to accommodate the fact that 'The Face That Runs the Place' would be chasing the main event of WrestleMania for the fourth straight year. Cena ran into the ring as the Pittsburgh crowd was split in the middle for him. Cena struck Bateman, Cole and Roode before being ambushed by The Revival. Dawson charged into Cena, who lifted him over his head and sent him out onto the floor. Scott Dawson has been eliminated! Cena then hoisted Dash up onto his shoulder for the Attitude Adjustment, sending Dash crashing onto Dawson! Dash Wilder has been eliminated! Cena was fired up after managing to eliminate The Revival, but almost fell victim to an RKO. Cena pushed Orton away before taking him down with repeated shoulder tackles. Cena raised his hand into the air, intending on giving Orton the Five Knuckle Shuffle. When Cena ran the ropes, however, Roode Clothesline him over. Cena was able to hang on and re-enter the ring, targeting Roode for trying to make his WrestleMania dreams come to fruition at the expense of his.
Entrant #30: Kevin Owens Still in ring: Antonio Cesaro, Derrick Bateman, Paige, Cody Rhodes, Tyson Kidd, Bobby Roode, Randy Orton, Adam Cole, John Cena, Kevin Owens
The final entrant in the Royal Rumble match was the man who earned the number 30 spot in a grueling Tables, Ladders and Chairs match. When Kevin Owens stepped onto the ring apron, he grabbed Kidd and pulled him out of the ring. Tyson Kidd has been eliminated! Kidd got to his feet at ringside, only to be hit with a Superkick from Owens. After 'The Prizefighter' entered the ring, the field in the Royal Rumble match was finally complete. Owens, Cena, Cole, Orton, Roode, Rhodes, Paige, Bateman and Cesaro. One of those nine superstars would be leaving Pittsburgh as the first-ever WWE Universal Champion. Cole stepped onto the middle rope after dazing Cena momentarily, attempting the Panama Sunrise. Cena countered it into a Back Body Drop, but Cole was able to land on his feet. When he did so, however, he was planted with an RKO! Orton picked Cole up and threw him over the top rope. Adam Cole has been eliminated! "Eight remain," Ranallo said. Cesaro, who had been in the match for close to an hour at that point, hit Bateman and Roode with repeated Uppercuts. Cesaro then ran the ropes, but was hit with a boot from Bateman. Roode took the stunned Cesaro onto his shoulders, backing towards the ropes and throwing him out onto the floor! Antonio Cesaro has been eliminated! Roode attempted to do the same to Cena, but 'The Face That Runs the Place' was able to plant his feet onto the apron to save himself. Cena blocked a shot from Roode, delivering one of his own. Cena then lifted Roode up in a vertical Suplex position, getting him over the top rope and throwing him feet-first onto the floor! Bobby Roode has been eliminated! The field was quickly dwindling as only six superstars were left with the hopes of becoming Universal Champion and defending it in the main event of WrestleMania XXX. Bateman charged into Cena, but the latter held onto the top rope to prevent elimination. Bateman ran the ropes to gain more speed, but Cena launched himself over the top rope and into Bateman with a shoulder tackle! On another side of the ring Orton and Owens were continuing where they left off on Monday. Orton went for an RKO, but Owens pushed him into the ropes. Owens hit Orton with an elbow and tried to get him over the top rope, both men with their backs turned. That allowed Bateman to creep up behind them and lift both over the top rope! Randy Orton has been eliminated! Kevin Owens has been eliminated!
THE FINAL FOUR DERRICK BATEMAN VS. PAIGE VS. CODY RHODES VS. JOHN CENA
The most hated man in WWE. The only female left with the possibility of making history. The 2013 Superstar of the Year. The guy who has carried the company on his back for nearly a decade. Those were the four individuals remaining with the WWE Universal Championship and main event spot at WrestleMania on the line. Cena, Rhodes, Paige and Bateman each took a corner, the four of them glancing at each other. "This is it. The final four. Who will hold that Universal Championship above their head and go on to defend it at WrestleMania?" Ranallo asked. Cena and Bateman left their corners to begin exchanging blows, while Paige attempted to rake the eyes of Rhodes. Cena kicked Bateman repeatedly in a corner before whipping him into the opposite one, charging into him with a splash. Rhodes shoved Paige away from him before taking her down with a Back Body Drop. 'The Prince of Pro Wrestling' picked Paige up and threw her into the ropes, trying to go for the elimination. Paige responded with a headbutt to the chest of Rhodes before hitting him with a running Bulldog. Cena hoisted Bateman onto his shoulders for an Attitude Adjustment, but Bateman managed to free himself. Bateman pushed Cena towards Paige, who caught him with a Bicycle Knee! The stunned Cena walked right into a Disaster Kick from Rhodes before being thrown over the top rope by Bateman! John Cena has been eliminated! Half of the fans in Pittsburgh rejoiced while the other half showered Bateman with boos, just like they did earlier when he eliminated Lesnar. Bateman turned around and was hit with Dropkicks from both Paige and Rhodes. Bateman fended them off when they attempted to eliminate him, keeping his Universal Title hopes alive. Bateman grabbed Paige and threw her against a corner before he was attacked from behind by Rhodes. From there, Bateman and Rhodes engaged in a fist fight with the crowd chanting "Boo!" and "Yes!" respectively. Rhodes got the upperhand in that battle, but Paige ran towards him. Rhodes kicked Paige in the mid-section before turning his attention back onto Bateman, going for another Disaster Kick. While Rhodes had his feet on the middle rope, Bateman ran towards him and shoved him out onto the floor! Cody Rhodes has been eliminated!
IT ALL COMES DOWN TO THIS
Bateman backed against one side of the ring while Paige backed agains the opposing side, both superstars staring at each other as they realized that the Royal Rumble match was down to just them. "This is it! The final two!" Ranallo screamed over the audience. Every single fan in the Consol Energy Center was standing, the McMahons doing the same at ringside. All three of them looked on with anxiety, Stephanie loathing the idea of having to present Paige of all people with the Universal Title, while Vince and Shane felt the same towards Bateman. Neither Bateman nor Paige have ever held a Heavyweight Championship in WWE. Somebody would be winning their first main event-tiered championship, and would go on to defend it in the main event of WrestleMania! Either way, history was about to be made! Either Bateman becomes champion, or Paige becomes the first female in WWE history to win the Royal Rumble, become champion and go on to the headline the biggest stage in professional wrestling! Both superstars rose to their feet, Paige looking around when she noticed that just about every single person in the Consol Energy Center was cheering for her. "After everything she's done... After selling her soul to Bray Wyatt... The WWE Universe still loves her! They want nothing more than to watch 'their' Paige make history!" Graves said before Ranallo gave a passionate, heartfelt speech regarding Paige. "For one more moment, the WWE Universe is screaming, 'She is ours!' Somewhere in Norwich, Saraya Knight is saying, 'My baby girl is fighting for the chance to main event WrestleMania!' The young woman who has grown up in front of our eyes over the last two years has the chance to become the first female to hold a Heavyweight Championship! Come on, Paige! Do it! Do it for everyone who has ever had a dream that they were told was impossible to achieve!" Chants of, "Let's go, Paige!" rang throughout the arena and would not stop for anything. Paige was the only hope left for the WWE Universe, and Goddammit, they wanted this more than anything in the world!
At the same time, Bateman and Paige ran towards each other, the two meeting in the center of the ring and exchanging strikes! Bateman was able to daze Paige before running the ropes, 'The Anti-Diva' catching him with a Bicycle Knee! The fans in Pittsburgh erupted as Bateman backed against a corner, sitting down and inadvertently giving Paige the opening that she needed. Paige ran into Bateman, driving her knee into the side of his head! "Come on, Paige!" Shane shouted from ringside, Stephanie on her knees with her hands covering her mouth. Paige tried to pick Bateman up, but by the time she did so, he caught her with a few hard shots to the top of her head. Bateman planted Paige with a Back Suplex before placing her in a corner. After hitting her with two knife edge chops, he grabbed her face and yelled out, "This is MY championship, bitch! MY! CHAMPIONSHIP!" Paige responded with a headbutt to Bateman, the latter resting his chest against the middle rope. Paige stepped out onto the ring apron, putting herself in jeopardy. She grabbed Bateman by his head and repeatedly struck him with her knee. She then held onto the top rope and let out a giant scream, something she had not done since prior to her tenure as a Wyatt Family member. Paige re-entered the ring and charged towards Bateman, who hoisted her onto her shoulders for a TKO! Bateman then slid out to ringside, taking the chair that he used earlier to eliminate Lesnar. Bateman didn't want to just eliminate Paige and become Universal Champion. He wanted to beat her senselessly. Bateman picked the chair up over his head, but Paige caught him with a low blow! Bateman dropped onto his knees, Paige taking the chair and leveling him in the back with it! Paige delivered a few more shots before waiting for Bateman to pick his head up. When he did so, she caught him with a Bicycle Knee! Bateman soon got to his feet, Paige hitting him with another knee to the jaw! After a third Bicycle Knee, Bateman fell over the top rope! Bateman landed on the apron, Paige picking up the chair yet again. "NO!" Stephanie shouted while Shane and Vince cheered Paige on, as did the entire WWE Universe. Paige struck Bateman in the head with the chair, his left hand letting go of the top rope before latching onto it again. Paige delivered a second chair shot, this time causing Bateman's right hand to let go. Paige backed away for a second, the fans roaring with so much intensity that the hard camera couldn't be still. Paige stared at the chair, real tears starting to flow from her eyes. Not the blood-red tears. Real, genuine, emotional human tears. "Right now, Paige is thinking about everything that she has ever had to endure. Leaving her family at 18 to pursue her dream! The torment caused by Stephanie McMahon! The brainwashing courtesy of Bray Wyatt! The loss of her unborn child! Paige's life is flashing before her eyes! Not because it's about to end, but because it's about to begin!" Ranallo shouted into his headset. Paige ran towards Bateman for one final chair shot, but Bateman lifted her over his head with a Back Body Drop! With that one move, Paige fell to the floor! Paige has been eliminated!
DERRICK BATEMAN IS THE FIRST-EVER WWE UNIVERSAL CHAMPION!
Heartbreak. Absolute heartbreak. Paige came one superstar short of winning the Royal Rumble match, and instead of crowning the first ever female Heavyweight Champion in history, the most hated man in WWE would claim the honor that 29 other superstars fought for over the last hour. Derrick Bateman re-entered the ring and dropped to his hands and knees. Last year at WrestleMania, he won the Money in the Bank briefcase. It was taken away from him after an injury, and he was forced to take matters into his own hands. He tormented everyone in his path, including the McMahons. And now, he's the first-ever WWE Universal Champion. Bateman rose to his feet, the official raising his hand after the biggest victory in Royal Rumble history. Vince McMahon stood up from his chair before handing the Universal Title to Shane, deciding at that moment that he couldn't stomach the thought of handing Bateman the hold. Shane gave the championship to Stephanie, following his father out of the arena. Bateman stared at the WrestleMania sign while Stephanie stepped into the ring. As the only member of the McMahon family who had no personal issues with Bateman, she presented him with the WWE Universal Title. Bateman took the championship and raised it above his head, the fans in Pittsburgh booing even louder when they finally saw him with the gold.
When Stephanie exited the ring, she began walking up the entrance ramp before turning her head towards Paige. 'The Anti-Diva' rested against the ring apron, her hands covering her eyes as she cried profusely. Getting the feeling that somebody was watching her, Paige removed her hands and stared at Stephanie. When she did so, cameras showed a difference in her appearance. Her tears had washed away the blood underneath her eyes. Her eyes were still pitch black, but the red stains underneath them were no more. The WWE Universe and the fact that she came close to winning the Royal Rumble managed to somewhat humanize her.
In the ring, Bateman continued to stare at the WrestleMania XXX sign as the bridge in "Casual Affair" began playing, the line in the song aligning perfectly with Bateman's thoughts at that moment. "I did it," the song said repeatedly. When the final chorus hit, fireworks shot from the sign and the stage. Bateman raised the WWE Universal Championship one more time, the celebration commencing for the most despised individual in the entire company. Derrick Bateman has made history here tonight. He has become the first-ever WWE Universal Champion, and he will defend it in the main event of WrestleMania XXX!
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Post by Planktung on Feb 1, 2017 17:44:27 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Feb 1, 2017 21:07:04 GMT -5
- Bateman wins the Royal Rumble Match to become the first ever WWE Universal Champion...I still can't believe this...the most hated man in WWE becomes WWE Universal Champion winning from the #12 position that is probably the first time a WWE superstar has won the Royal Rumble Match especially from the #12 spot because it's never happened until now...but Bateman winning it by eliminating The Wyatt Family's Paige who was #15 last to win it...I mean I didn't even expect Paige to last that long in the Royal Rumble Match but she surprised me I mean even though she had Harper & Rowan watching her back for the most part during the match after they were eliminated she held her own surprisingly and made it all the way to the Final Two but it wasn't meant to be
- Cena being eliminated by Bateman I mean that was definitely a huge elimination but then seeing Rhodes also being eliminated by Bateman too on top of it...I mean Cena and Rhodes making it all the way to the Final 4 coming that close but it only begs the question of where Cena goes from here or even Cody Rhodes for that matter
- But definite Royal Rumble Match highlights for me were seeing Strowman come in and clean house like how many eliminations did he have? Or even Lesnar for that matter how many eliminations did he have? I mean Lesnar he was on fire he was dominating he was taking superstar after superstar to Suplex City eliminating superstars before being screwed out of the Royal Rumble Match by Bateman who had to use a steel chair just to eliminate Brock which goes to show you that without the chair Lesnar would have eliminated Bateman...but after the way Lesnar was eliminated you know he and Heyman won't just take that lying down...Lesnar of course is going to want revenge and if and when that happens Lesnar will be gunning for Bateman
- Other Royal Rumble Match highlights definitely have to be Tyson Kidd eliminating Chris Jericho and Christian both within a matter of seconds and then Bateman eliminating both Owens and Orton at the same time like how many eliminations did Bateman have during the Royal Rumble Match?
- Jericho being an Iron Man in the Royal Rumble Match he lasted about like what over half an hour like 40 minutes and Samoa Joe could you believe it? Joe as a surprise entrant and him actually lasting over half an hour before being eliminated by Strowman...great showing for Joe
- Former NXT Champion and IWGP Jr. Heavyweight Champion Tyler Breeze another surprise entrant who lasted for a while too in the Royal Rumble Match...great showing for him as well because I didn't really expect him to last all that much longer either
- But definite highlights being Ellsworth being an entrant and Ellsworth actually eliminating Heath Slater...I was shocked but even more surprised by Cesaro lasting almost an hour in the Royal Rumble Match especially from entrant #4 just goes to show us that Cesaro continues to be on the rise I mean if he could last that long in the Royal Rumble Match then just goes to show us that in the future he could be a favorite in the Royal Rumble Match
- AJ Styles against all odds manages to retain his WWE Championship in a Triple Threat Match beating Dean Ambrose and beating Seth Rollins to retain his title never mind the fact that he had to overcome not 1 but 2 superstars in the same match but also the former WWE COO Triple H who played a factor in this match and Styles still the champion after all of that it only begs the question of who will Styles face for the WWE Championship at the next PPV that being Battleground? I mean if Styles pinned Ambrose then that means Rollins wasn't pinned so Rollins he can make the case for another title match especially if he wasn't pinned but yet Ambrose was so that takes him out of contention for the title but Styles with him retaining I can see it ending up being Styles/Rollins at WWE Battleground for the WWE Championship
- Matt Hardy in his return to WWE in his return to WWE on PPV as Broken Matt Hardy wins the WWE Hardcore Championship here at the Royal Rumble beating Enzo Amore to become the new WWE Hardcore Champion...I mean this match was back and forth I mean just when I thought I saw it all in WWE Hardcore Championship matches you continue to wow me here I mean this match was so back and forth I mean so many sick spots with weapons but in the end Hardy wins championship gold for the first time in years in WWE but this isn't the same Matt Hardy this is not Version 1 this is not Mattitude this is Broken Matt Hardy but now that he is WWE Hardcore Champion who will be able to beat him for that title? I mean the 24/7 rule is still in effect right? I would have half expected any WWE superstar to come out from the back to try to take that title from Hardy but no one did so it makes me wonder who will step up?
- WWE will sign Mojo Rawley it is only a matter of time but as for what brand he ends up on I think he ends up on Smackdown Live with Commissioner Shane McMahon and Smackdown GM Kurt Angle
- CM Punk The Best in the World still WWE Intercontinental Champion beating Bray Wyatt to retain his WWE Intercontinental Championship in a back and forth match-up I mean Punk once again not only proving why he is the best in the world but also proving that in big match situations he has an edge over Wyatt who doesn't have big match situation experience because Punk is a veteran but also Punk is a future WWE Hall of Famer but Wyatt more than held his own heck he was dominating in this match for a while for a good while but in the end Punk found a way to win he found a way to retain I gotta give him that...Punk can definitely put The Wyatts behind him especially now considering he has beaten Wyatt and Punk he continues to bring prestige back to the WWE Intercontinental Championship he is making the title mean something again...so it begs the question of who will try to step up to Punk now and challenge him for that title?
- WrestleMania XXX promo...just proof that we are on the Road to WrestleMania...63 days until WrestleMania 30 the 30th anniversary of WrestleMania...30 years and it all comes down to this I wonder if we will get more promo work when it comes to WrestleMania in the sense of seeing past WrestleMania moments like for example WrestleMania Recalls and seeing faces from the past come back for WrestleMania 30
- The Smackdown GM being revealed...Pittsburgh's own...the 2nd inductee for the Class of 2014 and it is none other than The Only Olympic Gold Medalist in WWE history The Wrestling Machine Kurt Angle...Angle not only going into the WWE Hall of Fame as the 2nd inductee joining The Ultimate Warrior in this class but he is being named as Smackdown GM if anything with him and Shane running Smackdown I have no doubt that Angle will make Smackdown the place to be...I mean Angle not only when he was an active wrestler during his heyday in the Ruthless Aggression Era was he an institution on Smackdown but at the same time he at one time was Smackdown GM and now that he is GM again there is no greater choice than that of Angle and who will ever forget that infamous King of the Ring match back in 2001 that he and Shane had? Angle & Shane running Smackdown together hell I am already loving Smackdown Live already because they have Angle & Shane running the brand whereas on RAW they have Allie, Stephanie and Dario Cueto running that brand which I have no doubt they will run that brand into the ground
- AJ Lee retaining her WWE Women's Championship yet again this time beating Alexa Bliss this time one on one all be it by DQ...AJ Lee using lying, cheating and stealing Viva La Raza Eddie Guerrero tactics to retain her title I mean she essentially used the advantage Alexa Bliss had of getting counted out or DQed against her...I mean AJ Lee in this match if she got counted out or DQed she would lose the WWE Women's Championship and AJ Lee using that to her advantage by getting Alexa Bliss disqualified and the referee having no choice but to disqualify Alexa...it is obvious AJ Lee was using her intelligence her ring savvy and it paid off because she managed to outsmart Alexa Bliss to retain her title...AJ Lee beat Alexa Bliss back at TLC in a Triple Threat Tables Ladders and Chairs Match with Paige and then she beats Alexa again this time one on one I mean if AJ Lee could do that then who can beat her for that title? I mean Alexa has seemingly ran out of chances to try to beat AJ Lee for that title and AJ Lee has beaten Paige and Sofia Cortez both already so who will be the next woman to try to cross paths with AJ Lee?
- But other than the Royal Rumble Match the match that stole the show here for me definitely has to be the opening contest for the Royal Rumble PPV...the WWE United States Championship Triple Threat Match with Miz (c), Aries and Daniel Bryan this match definitely stole the show because not only was it the most back and forth match but it was entertaining all the way through honestly I mean even I was on the edge of my seat during this match...but in the end Miz somehow retaining his title yet again overcoming the odds well major assist goes to his wife Maryse who pays dividends yet again helping her man to victory yet again with Miz pinning Bryan to retain...that means Aries was never pinned so Aries does have a case for a title match I mean he wasn't pinned Bryan was but it doesn't matter Miz beat both men not just one on one but at the same time in the same match so with that said it does beg the question of who Miz will defend his WWE United States Championship against
- Love the WWE Battleground graphics they are the same as the movie Suicide Squad
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Post by Planktung on Feb 2, 2017 0:15:35 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Feb 4, 2017 16:50:02 GMT -5
As for who makes Team Styles obviously AJ Styles being the WWE Champion he will captain his team but the 4 other superstars who I see being on his team are: Cody Rhodes Dean Ambrose Brock Lesnar John Cena As for who makes Team Bateman obviously Bateman the WWE Universal Champion captaining his own team the 4 other superstars on his team being: Seth Rollins Bobby Roode Kevin Owens Austin Aries
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Post by Planktung on Feb 6, 2017 13:32:49 GMT -5
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Post by tg11 on Feb 6, 2017 16:59:34 GMT -5
So War Games you have one with the divas with Alexa Bliss captaining her own team and AJ Lee captaining her own team?
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Post by NOW that's WRESTLING on Feb 6, 2017 21:31:19 GMT -5
So War Games you have one with the divas with Alexa Bliss captaining her own team and AJ Lee captaining her own team? Obviously.
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Post by Planktung on Feb 16, 2017 18:24:05 GMT -5
January 27th, 2014 - After the signature WWE intro, a special video package was shown that began with Derrick Bateman’s introduction into NXT Season 4, over three years ago at this point. Backing the video was ”Started from the Bottom” by Drake, the song playing over highlights of Bateman’s career over time. After finishing NXT in the final three, Bateman returned to FCW before resurfacing as part of NXT: Redemption. From there, Bateman struggled to survive on the main roster and became a regular act on Superstars as opposed to one of the two big shows. During the spring of 2012, Bateman seized the opportunity to team with Santino Marella. The duo gained popularity among the WWE Universe, but still, Bateman treaded water. The night following Survivor Series 2012, Bateman found new fortune as well as a malice attitude, leading to him turning on Santino before defeating his former tag team partner at Bragging Rights. After run-ins with The Rock leading up to and during the 2013 Royal Rumble match, Bateman gained contention to the United States Championship and defeated Rob Van Dam during the Battleground Kickoff to capture his first title in WWE. Bateman was the first superstar to join the Money in the Bank Ladder match at WrestleMania XXIX, little to nobody giving him a chance at winning. Bateman shocked the world in MetLife Stadium and retrieved the briefcase that guaranteed him a future WWE or World Heavyweight Championship shot. ”Now I’m on the road, half a million for a show / ‘Cause we started from the bottom now we’re here.” Not too long after, Bateman joined The Committee and was regarded by Triple H as the future of WWE. However, that endorsement acted as more of a curse than a blessing for Bateman. Not only did he lose the United States Championship to Roman Reigns at Extreme Rules, but later in the night, he was put through a table by Paige during the historic Last Diva Standing match. At King of the Ring, Bateman joined Randy Orton and Batista in a Steel Cage match against CM Punk and Wade Barrett, losing their titles for them in the process. Two weeks later, Bateman suffered an injury at a live event that was expected to keep him out for several months. As a result, he was stripped of his Money in the Bank briefcase. Bateman declared that his injury was not serious enough to warrant the decision to take away his briefcase. After airing his grievances to Vince McMahon on July 9th, he was publicly fired on RAW. No longer a contracted superstar, Bateman managed to hack into the WWE Network, broadcasting live from his home at several points to deliver threats to The Committee, The Uprising, Vince McMahon and the WWE Universe as a whole. No longer a member of any unit, Bateman looked out for himself only. ”I’ma worry ‘bout me, give a f*** about you.” At Night of Champions, Bateman regained his job after AJ Styles, who now held the Money in the Bank briefcase, defeated Orton. While Bateman owed his job to Styles, he set his sights on ‘The Phenomenal One’ for taking his spot. Bateman’s quest to win back the briefcase lead him to a Triple Threat Hell in a Cell match against Styles and Orton. Despite falling halfway off of the Cell and having thumbtacks pierce his back, Bateman failed. No longer having any hope that he would become champion, Bateman targeted the McMahons. When he challenged Vince to a fight, he ended up getting a returning Shane. Bateman went on to defeat Shane at Survivor Series in a Street Fight that earned him all of Shane’s stock in WWE, making him the half-owner. Using his power, Bateman, slotted himself into a WWE Championship match at Concrete Jungle in Madison Square Garden. After failing to defeat Styles for the gold, Bateman had to sign his stock in the company over to Dario Cueto in exchange for a spot in the Royal Rumble match. Last night, Bateman entered the contest at number 12 and managed to eliminate seven superstars. Sofia Cortez, Randy Orton, Kevin Owens, John Cena, Cody Rhodes and Paige all fell to Bateman on his way to winning the Rumble. Bateman is the first-ever WWE Universal Champion. From the laughing stock of NXT to competing in the main event of WrestleMania XXX, Bateman has transformed himself into the biggest name in professional wrestling today. This is his world now, and the era of Derrick Bateman has begun.
In the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, fans could be heard already booing after the conclusion of the video packages, their jeers growing even louder for the arrival of the man of the hour. "Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome... The first-ever WWE Universal Champion, Derrick Bateman!" Bateman's entrance music sounded as the WWE Universe continued to express their displeasure for the outcome to last night's Royal Rumble match. Bateman stepped out onto the stage, the Universal Championship draped over his shoulder. Bateman took the title and raised it high in the air, embracing the boos from his own hometown. Bateman didn't care who was booing him or how many people were doing so. He got what he wanted and that's all that mattered to him. The WWE Universal Title is in his possession and he'll be defending it in the main event of WrestleMania XXX on April 6th. Bateman made his way down to the ring, taking a microphone while his music silenced. "... Hate. Hate is a strong word, but over the last year, I've learned what it truly means. Not only to hate, but to be hated as well. Before last year, nobody hated me. Nobody even liked me because nobody cared about me. None of you did. Nobody in that locker room or the offices did. Hell, to some extent, I didn't even care about myself. And why should I have? I was nothing more than the curly-headed kid who was never supposed to make it out of NXT. I was a joke for years and when I finally had the chance to grab the brass ring, I reached for that bastard before everybody tried to yank it away from me. I was fired in this ring back in July. I had my Money in the Bank briefcase taken away. Everything I worked for was gone, but that didn't stop me. I clawed and scratched my way back up and I went from unemployed to owning half this company, to now owning the WWE Universal Championship. If I was anybody else, this would be considered a success story. But because I'm Derrick Bateman, you all hate it. I don't care. Go ahead and hate me because look at where that's gotten me. I'm on my way to the main event of the biggest WrestleMania in history. My name is forever listed among the greats of this industry. Hogan, Savage, Warrior, Bret, Shawn, Taker, Austin, Rock, Triple H, Cena... Bateman. Exactly the way it was meant to be. I eliminated seven people in the Royal Rumble last night to get this title, including everyone's heroin, Paige. And guess what? Tonight, I finish her off and make sure that Paige is nothing more than a footnote in my legacy. Then, it's onto WarGames, where I give AJ Styles the humiliation that is long overdue for him. Finally, the main event of WrestleMania. I don't care who it is that I defend the title against there. Walking out of the biggest show in history as the Universal Champion is the biggest slap in the face I can give to everybody who tried to ruin my life. This... This is all your fault," Bateman said before raising the Universal Title towards the hard camera, showing the WWE Universe what - in his mind - they contributed to, whether they realize it or not.
Bateman's celebration would then be interrupted by the entrance music of AJ Styles and the pop from the WWE Universe that accompanied it. The WWE Champion walked down to the ring, Bateman clearly irritated at the fact that 'The Phenomenal One' wouldn't allow him his moment. "No. No. No, Styles. Not this time. You're not going to steal another one of my moments. Not after I put on the greatest performance in Royal Rumble history to become Universal Champion," Bateman said, Styles glancing at his title. "As much as I want to say that you didn't earn your spot at WrestleMania, Bateman, you did. You won the Royal Rumble match. You are the WWE Universal Champion... But you're still not the guy around here. Not as long as AJ Styles is here, and especially not as long as I have this," Styles said before raising the WWE Title that he retained last night over Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins. "So go ahead and main event WrestleMania because I'll have already stolen the show by then." Bateman smirked before telling Styles that 'stolen' is an ironic word for him to use. "Let's look at how we've gotten to this point, Styles. I earned the Money in the Bank briefcase last year. You STOLE it from me! Just like you stole the WWE Championship at Survivor Series while I EARNED the Universal Championship last night! That's the difference between you and me. I've earned my spot while you've weaseled your way into everything!" Styles then reminded Bateman about how he defeated him in Madison Square Garden at Concrete Jungle. "Did I 'steal' that victory, too? Because you sure as hell earned your loss, just like you've earned the right to lose to my team in the WarGames match at Battleground!" Bateman then put down the Universal Title, telling Styles that he didn't want to wait until Battleground. "You want to talk about earning something, Styles? Well... You've earned this." Bateman removed his jacket and began unbuttoning his shirt, Styles ready to fight the Universal Champion right there and then. However, Bobby Roode ran down to the ring, turned Styles around and planted him with an Impaler DDT! Roode sprang to his feet and looked down at Styles, Bateman picking his microphone back up with a huge grin on his face. "Like I said, you earned that, Styles. Meet the first member of my WarGames team." Bateman patted Roode on the shoulder, thanking him for his assistance against the WWE Champion. "I'm a man of my word," Roode told Bateman, indicating that this was Roode's way of repaying Bateman for signing him last month. The two of them headed up the entrance ramp, Styles soon coming to and realizing what he had been hit with. Battleground starts to take shape as Roode is now the second member of Team Bateman!
Returning from the commercial break, a recap was shown of the opening segment that saw WWE Champion AJ Styles and WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman engage in a war of words before Bobby Roode laid out Styles. Not only is Roode going to be on Team Bateman at Battleground, but confirmed during the break, he will be taking on Styles one-on-one here tonight on RAW.
Backstage, the SmackDown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon and General Manager Kurt Angle were shown in their office, greeting the fans in Cleveland and all around the world. Shane said that while SmackDown will not be going live weekly until April 10th, the WWE Universe will get a taste of what's to come from him and Angle. "Tomorrow night on SyFy, SmackDown will be broadcasted LIVE from Toledo, Ohio. That show will begin taking shape tonight with four singles matches. Chris Jericho vs. Adam Cole, Adrian Neville vs. Xavier Woods, Rusev vs. Baron Corbin, and Austin Aries vs. Daniel Bryan," Shane said before Angle elaborated on exactly why those matches will be happening. "The winners will move on to a Fatal Four Way Elimination match on SmackDown tomorrow. The superstar who comes out on top will go on to Battleground and challenge The Miz for the United States Championship. The quest for a new number one contender starts... Now!"
► ADAM COLE W/ LANA DEF. CHRIS JERICHO IN A FATAL FOUR WAY QUALIFIER: As announced by Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle, the winner of this match would advance to a Fatal Four Way Elimination match tomorrow night on SmackDown Live to determine the next challenger for The Miz' United States Championship. Chris Jericho and Adam Cole settled their rivalry in an exhilarating open contest that even saw Cole kick out of the Codebreaker. When Jericho attempted to follow up that maneuver with the Lionsault, Cole was able to get his knees up. The former NXT Champion got to his feet and delivered a Superkick to the back of Jericho's head! Cole then lifted Jericho in a vertical Suplex position, dropping the back of his head onto his knee! Cole got the cover on Jericho, putting him away in shockingly clean fashion! "I don't even need to see the rest of the qualifying matches, Mauro! We're looking at the new number one contender for the United States Championship!" Corey Graves exclaimed while Cole celebrated his victory with Lana. "Adam Cole, bay bay!" Cole shouted as he headed up the entrance ramp, Jericho looking on in both disdain and disappointment. Cole is the first superstar to qualify for tomorrow night's Fatal Four Way Elimination match!
Backstage, Shane McMahon and Kurt Angle were shown once again in their office, the two more than satisfied with the quality of the first match made by them. "You think Adam can win it all?" Angle asked, Shane not willing to doubt Adam Cole's chances after his performance just now. Suddenly, Kevin Owens barged into the room, demanding a match with Randy Orton. "Orton tried to humiliate me last week! He's the reason I'm not the Universal Champion right now! I'm out of the WrestleMania main event and the only person I want to get my hands on right now is him!" Owens yelled out, Angle granting him the match for Battleground. "Whoa, whoa. Now, that sounds like a hell of a match for Battleground, but you clearly don't want to wait until then. The WWE Universe doesn't want to wait. Hell, I don't want to wait. So I'll tell you what, Kevin. You have Randy Orton one-on-one... Tonight!" Owens exited the office after being granted exactly what he wanted. "I need to get the hang of this GM thing again," Angle said, Shane assuring him that he's doing a great job so far.
► ADRIAN NEVILLE DEF. XAVIER WOODS W/ THE NEW DAY IN A FATAL FOUR WAY QUALIFIER: The second of four qualifying matches for the Fatal For Way Elimination match on SmackDown Live. During his entrance, Xavier Woods promised the WWE Universe that even though Kofi Kingston and Big E came up short last night against The Alpha Wolves, Match 6 in the Best of Seven Series would result in a 'W' for The New Day. "Nobody gives up 3-1 leads," Big E chimed in before Woods went on to say that after Battleground, not only will Kofi and Big E be the WWE Tag Team Champions, but he'll be the United States Champion. "Forget about The Miz and Maryse as the WWE's 'it couple.' Sooner than later, nobody will even remember them, but history will never forget about Xavier Woods and Francesca!" Woods exclaimed, Mauro Ranallo questioning if Woods really just professed his love for a trombone. During the contest, Adrian Neville ascended to the top rope for the Red Arrow, but Kofi and Big E stepped onto the ring apron to distract the official. That didn't last long at all as The Alpha Wolves ran down to ringside, taking Kofi and Big E out of the equation in a brawl that spilled to the backstage area. Woods ran onto the top rope to execute a Hurricanrana, but Neville landed on his feet! Woods charged towards Neville, who dodged his strike and planted him with a German Suplex! Neville returned to the top rope, this time successfully hitting the Red Arrow to pick up the victory. Now part of tomorrow's Fatal Four Way Elimination match, 'The Man That Gravity Forgot' is one step closer to reclaiming the United States Championship from the man who took it from him back in November, The Miz.
A graphic was shown for tonight's main event that will see WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman take on Paige in a non-title match. Coming up next, however, Kevin Owens goes one-on-one with Randy Orton in a rematch from last week.
A promo was shown for this week's edition of NXT. The main event of TakeOver: R-Evolution in three weeks will be previewed as Finn Balor battles Hideo Itami, and NXT Champion Sami Zayn meets Pentagon in their first-ever encounter. Plus, after Emma shocked the world last week by turning on Bayley to align herself with Billie Kay and Peyton Royce, what's next for the trio of Femme Fatales? NXT, this Wednesday night on WWE Network.
► RANDY ORTON VS. KEVIN OWENS NEVER STARTED: After both superstars were eliminated in last night's Royal Rumble match as a result of their animosity for one another, Kevin Owens was granted another one-on-one match against Randy Orton. During Owens' entrance, Orton exited the ring and began brawling with 'The Prizefighter' at ringside! Orton and Owens traded blows for closet to ten seconds before the official tried to intervene, Owens throwing him into the barricade! 'All hell has broken loose between Orton and Owens!" Mauro Ranallo declared before Orton attempted to deliver an RKO onto the floor. Owens ended up pushing Orton away, 'The Viper' colliding with the steel ring post. With Orton dazed, Owens took him and hit a Powerbomb onto the ring apron! Orton collapsed to the floor as more officials arrived on the scene to keep Owens at bay. Owens backed up the entrance ramp while the ringside doctor tended to Orton, who had not moved an inch since crashing onto the apron. Owens mocked Orton on the stage by performing his signature taunt while a stretcher arrived for 'The Viper.'
Returning to Monday Night RAW, a recap of the previous 'match' was shown that resulted in Kevin Owens Powerboming Randy Orton onto the ring apron. During the commercial break, Orton was placed onto a stretcher and taken out of the Quicken Loans Arena. "Kevin Owens made it clear just now what happens if you cost him the main event of WrestleMania, and now, who knows if Orton will be at WrestleMania at all?" Corey Graves asked, reminding the WWE Universe that a Powerbomb onto the apron kept Daniel Bryan on the shelf for months.
Backstage, RAW Commissioner Stephanie McMahon and Commissioner Dario Cueto were shown trying to leave the arena to check on Randy Orton. While they were doing so, Seth Rollins could be heard off-screen shouting for Stephanie. "We need to talk," Rollins said, Stephanie asking him if it could wait. "One of our talents is on his way to the hospital. I need to leave," Stephanie said, Rollins refusing to comply. "And I need a rematch for the WWE Championship! I wasn't pinned last night! Dean Ambrose was! AJ Styles has yet to beat me and until he does, he shouldn't be able to call himself WWE Champion!" Rollins shouted, Stephanie telling him to never raise his voice at her again. "I don't care what my husband thinks of you! You don't ever get in the face of an authority figure!" she said, Rollins turning to Dario. "And what about you?! Are you going to do anything about this?! Because this is all your fault! I had my one-on-one match with Styles and YOU'RE the one who made it a Triple Threat match!" Dario yelled at Rollins, reminding him that Ambrose was going to decapitate him with a chainsaw had he not intervened. Allie, the assistant to Stephanie and Dario, soon arrived with their bags. "Here! You deal with this!" Stephanie shouted at Allie, seemingly giving her the authority to deal with Rollins. Stephanie and Dario left the scene, Rollins crossing his arms while looking down at Allie. "Well... ? What are you gonna do about this?" Rollins asked, Allie obviously intimidated by him. Allie, who missed the entire conversation, didn't even know what Rollins was asking for, which made him lose his composure. "ARE YOU GOING TO GIVE ME AJ STYLES OR NOT?!?!?" he screamed at her, nearly making her cry. "Okay! You can have AJ Styles!" Allie said, Rollins following up with the question of when he would get his WWE Title match. "Tomorrow on SmackDown!" Allie cried before leaving the picture, humiliated by everyone involved. Tomorrow night on SmackDown Live, the WWE Championship will be on the line! AJ Styles vs. Seth Rollins!
► DANIEL BRYAN DEF. AUSTIN ARIES IN A FATAL FOUR WAY QUALIFIER: The two superstars who failed to capture the United States Championship at the Royal Rumble last night had one more shot at glory in this qualifying match. Looking to cap off their rivalry in a big way, Daniel Bryan and Austin Aries threw everything they had at one another, pleasing the Cleveland audience. At the conclusion, Aries attempted to deliver the 450 Splash, but when he landed, Bryan moved and applied the Yes Lock! Aries’ foot was probably less than an inch away from the bottom rope, but under no circumstances could he extend it any further or move his body around. Bryan had the hold cinched in, forcing Aries to tap out! Bryan released the hold and joined the WWE Universe in a massive “Yes!” chant as Bryan’s journey to the United States Championship continues. Bryan joins Adam Cole and Adrian Neville in the Fatal Four Way Elimination match tomorrow night on SmackDown Live for a shot at The Miz at Battleground.
In the locker room area, WWE Champion AJ Styles was shown sitting down on a bench, icing the back of his neck after not only his grueling Triple Threat match last night, but the Impaler DDT he received from Bobby Roode earlier. Styles heard the door open and looked up to see Cody Rhodes standing over him. Rhodes stared at the WWE Title that rested by the side of Styles, not forgetting how he lost it. “You took that from me. You stuck your nose where it didn’t belong and you stole the WWE Title from me. I have every reason in the world to take Derrick Bateman’s side against you… But I’m not going to sell my soul to Satan himself,” Rhodes said, Styles growing confused. “Bateman took away my last chance at main eventing WrestleMania. Bobby Roode is somebody who I don’t mind giving a beating to every night for the rest of my career. I don’t want to be your friend, but I want to be your teammate for just this one time.” Styles stood up and came face-to-face with Rhodes, unsure how to react to ‘The Prince of Pro Wrestling’ actually offering to fight with him in WarGames. While he was hesitant, Styles extended his hand and shook Rhodes’, making their temporary alliance official. Rhodes joins Team Styles at Battleground! “… On one condition,” Rhodes added before the commercial break, leaving the WWE Universe in suspense.
► INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION CM PUNK DEF. BO ROTUNDO IN A NON-TITLE MATCH: 24 hours after successfully defending the Intercontinental Championship against Bray Wyatt, CM Punk found himself in one-on-one competition against Bo Rotundo. As expected at that this point, Bo cut a pre-match promo, offering Punk the opportunity to be his tag team partner. “Think about it! We could be… Bo-M Punk!” Punk declined Bo’s offer before giving him a backhand strike. The match proceeded with Punk dominating Bo throughout it, hoisting him onto his shoulders for an airplane spin. After a multiplicity of rotations, Punk connected with the Go To Sleep to get the win. Punk celebrated afterwards with the Intercontinental Title, Mauro Ranallo asking what is next for ‘The Best in the World’ on the Road to WrestleMania?
In a dimly-lit section of the Quicken Loans Arena, Paige was shown sitting on a staircase, reminiscent of one of her first promos on NXT nearly two years ago. Paige, who had the blood underneath her eyes washed away by her tears last night at the Royal Rumble, looked down at the stairs that she sat on while speaking normally for the first time as a Wyatt Family member. “Who am I? Why do I do the things I do? I turn that question around and ask why do any of us do the things we do? We do everything for somebody, even if that person is just us. Who was I fighting for? I’m not sure if I know that. Was it for myself? For my family? For everyone who has supported me? I’m not sure, but whoever I was fighting for… I let them down. The Universal Title was right in front me. I looked around me and people’s faces were beaming. I looked up at the WrestleMania sign and I saw where I wanted to be. I looked back down and there was the Universal Title, waiting for me to capture it. And I didn’t. One person. One… Devil was all that stood in front of me and I let him win. Never again. Derrick Bateman is never going to have the same satisfaction that someone like Stephanie McMahon has at my expense. And when he looks me in the eyes again, I’m going to rip out his with his only option being to run. And I’m doing that for myself…”
She then looked up at the camera, showing her pitch-black eyes without the blood underneath them.
“Who am I? I’m Paige.”
Backstage, Intercontinental Champion CM Punk was shown walking towards the locker room area after successfully defeating Bo Rotundo just moments ago. Punk suddenly came to a stop when he looked off to his side and noticed Cody Rhodes approaching him. "I need to ask you something," Rhodes said to Punk, the Intercontinental Champion listening. "I know that this is probably a long shot, but I wouldn't be coming to you for this if I didn't think you were the right guy. AJ Styles needs a team for WarGames and I offered to be on it, but only if he agreed to put his differences with you aside and let me ask you to join us. I loathe Styles just as much as anybody else here, but Battleground isn't about being friends with him. It's about fighting Derrick Bateman and the tyranny he's-" Rhodes said before being cut off by Punk. "No. I get what you're saying, Cody, but in my mind, Styles and Bateman are one in the same. I'm not interested," Punk stated firmly, Rhodes trying one more time to recruit him for the team. "The thing, Punk, is that I know you're capable of being a team player. Last July, you won a poll that gave you the right to challenge Bray Wyatt for the WWE Championship, and what did you do? You gave up that opportunity so that I could have it. You easily could've taken the title shot for yourself, but you gave me the chance to get revenge on Wyatt. I'll never forget the selflessness you showed for me in that moment, so I'm asking you do the same for Styles. I'm not fighting for him. I'm fighting with him against a guy who deserves to get his ass kicked, and I was hoping you could see things that way." Punk glanced at Rhodes with a blank expression, taking everything he said into consideration. "... I don't trust him, but I trust you, Cody. So if I'm going to be on this team, then you send this message to Styles because I'm not going to look him in the eyes and do it myself. I'm not his teammate. I'm just somebody who is looking for a fight and if Styles gets in my way, that fight's gonna be against him." Rhodes agreed to follow through before shaking Punk's hand, welcoming him to Team Styles as the third member.
In the arena, the entrance music of Christian hit as the television return of 'Captain Charisma' also marked the return of The Peep Show. Christian made his way out onto the stage, the fans in Cleveland responding positively for his return. Christian walked down to the ring, greeting all of his 'peeps' in the WWE Universe. Christian went on to say that every year, WrestleMania season brings out the best in everybody. "The superstars step it up because if you want to leave your mark on WrestleMania, that's what you need to do. Last year, I missed WrestleMania due to injury, and if anyone's been keeping score, this year marks 10 years since the last time I was victorious on the biggest stage of them all. Everything changes this year because 'Captain Charisma' will have his WrestleMania moment! The only thing standing in my way is something that John Cena alluded to yesterday. That being the 'New Era' in WWE. Because while I've regressed over the last few years, waves and waves of new talent have come up here to try to take spots that they wouldn't have even been able to seize without pioneers like myself." At that point, the fans noticed the change in Christian's tone and began turning on him. "So all that being said, I'd like to bring out my guest on The Peep Show tonight. He's the guy who embodies everything about the 'New Era.' He's selfish. He thinks he's entitled to everything. He tried to make a name for himself by eliminating me in the Royal Rumble last night. Please welcome Tyson Kidd." Christian looked at the entrance ramp with a serious expression while Kidd walked down to the ring, the last graduate of The Hart Dungeon being caught off guard by Christian's attitude. Once in the ring, Kidd took a microphone and told Christian and told him that if he's going to call him out, then he needs to get his facts straight. "Am I selfish? Fact! Do I think that I'm entitled to everything? I'm entitled to what I've earned, which is this entire industry because for the last year, nobody has put in more work than me! While you were out with another injury, I was showing everybody why the 'New Era' belongs to me! I've taken people like Daniel Bryan, CM Punk and Kevin Owens to their absolute limits! I became United States Champion! Yes, I eliminated you in the Royal Rumble match last night, but was I trying to make a name for myself out of it? Hell no because I already have my name. As far as I'm concerned, you're the one who has everything to prove right now. You want to remind everybody how good 'Captain Charisma' is? Then do it," Kidd said before dropping his microphone and removing his shirt, challenging Christian to a fight. Before Christian could give any sort of response, the voice of Chris Jericho could be heard. Jericho, who lost his opportunity at the United States Championship earlier tonight to Adam Cole, made his way down to the ring and said that he was listening to both Kidd and Christian just now and decided that he couldn't ignore the situation. "You're both incredible athletes. Two of the most underrated in my book in any time period. And I know that this isn't any of my business, but I need to stop you before you make a mistake," Jericho said to Christian, Kidd standing behind him confused. "Over the last few years, I've been able to get a better look at the 'New Era' than you have and I can't argue that they're talented. They're hungry. They have the drive and passion that guys like myself, you, Edge, The Hardyz and Angle - just to name a few - all had when we were on the rise. One day, the industry will belong to them and whether we like it or not, we have to accept that... But that day isn't today," Jericho said before turning around to deliver a Codebreaker to Kidd! The commentators and fans were shocked as Jericho stood up, Christian just as surprised as anyone else, but more elated as well. "It's people like Christian and I who have given guys like you a spot in this company, and until we're done, this 'New Era' isn't taking over anything." Jericho placed down the microphone before he and Christian raised each other's arms, both receiving enormous amounts of boos while standing over Kidd's body. Jericho and Christian have reunited with one goal in mind: Eliminate the 'New Era.'
Returning from the commercial break, Seth Rollins was shown in the locker room area after having received his one-on-one WWE Championship match against AJ Styles tomorrow night on SmackDown Live. Rollins, who had been pacing back and forth, heard the door open and was confronted by the WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman, and Bobby Roode. Bateman told Rollins that he'll be rooting for him on SmackDown tomorrow. "The whole point of the WarGames match was because Styles and I are the two top champions right now, so imagine the hilarity that would ensue if you beat him on SmackDown for the title. The team captain wouldn't even be champion anymore. Instead, it'd be around the waist of someone who actually deserves to hold that honor. Now, I know that we've never been acquainted, but we've also never been enemies, Seth. Team Styles is filled with them, though. Not just Styles, but think about the unfinished business you have with CM Punk. Think about how Cody Rhodes was the Superstar of the Year over a deserving talent like yourself. But above all else, think about this. The WWE Universal Champion and the WWE Champion on the same team at Battleground," Bateman said, trying to persuade Rollins to join his team. "And me," Roode added, Bateman and Rollins glaring at him for a second. "... You got yourself a teammate," Rollins said before shaking Bateman's hand. Both teams are now even at three superstars a piece. Styles, Rhodes and Punk stand on one side, while Bateman, Roode and Rollins stand on the other.
► BARON CORBIN DEF. RUSEV IN A FATAL FOUR WAY QUALIFIER: The final qualifying match for the Fatal Four Way Elimination match tomorrow night on SmackDown Live. Rusev, who was eliminated from the Royal Rumble match last night by 'The Lone Wolf' was looking to get even with Baron Corbin here tonight. Towards the finish, Corbin was dazed on the outside while Rusev set him up for a Superkick. Corbin was able to move, resulting in Rusev smashing his own foot into the steel ring post. Corbin took advantage of the situation and delivered the End of Days onto the floor! Corbin rolled Rusev into the ring, bringing him up for a second End of Days before covering him for the victory. Corbin rose to his feet and stood tall over Rusev, shouting at him that he's the real 'Monster' in WWE. Corbin joins Adam Cole, Adrian Neville and Daniel Bryan in tomorrow night's Fatal Four Way Elimination match that will see the winner go on to Battleground to challenge The Miz for the United States Championship.
Backstage, John Cena was shown walking towards the ring. Cena, who made his return in the Royal Rumble match last night, will address the WWE Universe, next!
A promo was shown for Battleground, live Sunday February 23rd on WWE Network and Pay-Per-View.
Back in the Quicken Loans Arena, the entrance music of John Cena sounded to the usual mixed reaction for 'The Face That Runs the Place.' Cena stepped out onto the stage, embracing the crowd response while maintaining a facial expression that reminded the WWE Universe of the agony he felt in coming up short last night in the Royal Rumble match. "John Cena made it to the final four, but unfortunately for him and the rest of his 'Cenation,' his time was up and Derrick Bateman's time is now," Corey Graves said, mocking Cena while singing the praises of Bateman simultaneously. Cena ran into the ring and grabbed a microphone, asking the Cleveland if anybody missed seeing him on Monday Night RAW. "'Cause I missed all of this and last night, I was determined to make my return in the biggest way possible. By winning the Royal Rumble for the second time in my career, becoming the first-ever WWE Universal Champion and punching my ticket to a headlining match at WrestleMania for the ninth straight year! However, you don't always get what you want and my hopes of winning the Royal Rumble came to an end. The honor of being the first-ever Universal Champion slipped away from and that's an accolade that I'll never be able to claim as my own. But... What I haven't lost is the opportunity to headline WrestleMania. Derrick Bateman is defending the Universal Title on the grandest stage of them all and the last time I checked, he doesn't have an opponent. That's where I come in. I'm laying out the challenge right now. John Cena vs. Derrick Bateman at WrestleMania for the WWE Universal Championship!" The fans seemed to be mostly in favor of the match-up, but there was one individual who spoke against it. That being Paul Heyman, who marched down to the ring while the Cleveland audience embraced him. "John Cena, nobody will ever be able to take away what you have accomplished. You've carried the WWE on your back for the last ten years. You've held championship after championship after championship. The day that you're done headlining WrestleManias, you'll be headlining the Hall of Fame ceremony and I, for one, cannot wait to see you take your rightful place in the history books of not just the WWE, but professional wrestling as a whole. You have earned everything you have to your name... Except for a WWE Universal Championship match at WrestleMania. You were eliminated from the Royal Rumble match just like anybody else and that means you now have to get in the back of the line because there was one superstar who was unfairly eliminated from the Royal Rumble. It took the efforts of a steel chair in the hands of Derrick Bateman to eliminate the man who will be going to WrestleMania to challenge for the Universal Title. The marquee match at the biggest WrestleMania in history will not be Derrick Bateman defending the WWE Universal Championship against John Cena. I'm sorry, Cena, but for once, you're NOT going to be headlining WrestleMania because on April 6th in New Orleans, the match that the world will witness is going to be Derrick Bateman defending the WWE Universal Championship against the most destructive force in the history of professional wrestling! 'The Conqueror!' 'The Beast Incarnate!' WrestleMania XXX will be headlined by Derrick Bateman vs. Brock! Lesnar!" More fans popped for the mention of Bateman vs. Lesnar than they did for Bateman vs. Cena, 'The Face That Runs the Place' responding to Heyman by telling him that the last thing Lesnar deserves is a championship match of any kind at WrestleMania. He then waved the 'You Can't See Me' hand gesture in Heyman's face before clarifying what he was doing. "I'm not saying you can't see me. I'm showing you how many matches Brock Lesnar has had in the past year. While I'm busting my ass here, Lesnar is sitting at home while waiting for his next paycheck. So, Mr. Heyman, you can go tell your 'Beast' that John Cena told him he's the one who has to get in the back of the line because whether he likes it or not, Derrick Bateman has a date with me at WrestleMania. I'm sure Lesnar won't mind being somewhere else on the card. As long as he's paid, he'll be fine." Cena turned around to leave, but was halted by Heyman's voice. "Let me remind you why you're able to take on the moniker of 'The Face That Runs the Place,' Mr. Cena. It's because during your rise to the top of the mountain, Brock Lesnar was not there to stop you. Had Lesnar been here for the last decade, he would be 'The Face That Runs the Place.' Hell, I'd argue that Brock Lesnar is still 'The Face That Runs the Place,' while you're actually 'The Face That Came in Second Place.'" After Heyman's last comment, Cena looked to his side, making a nod and mouthing, "Okay. Sure." Heyman would then grab Cena by his face to make sure they locking eyes again. "Hey! Listen to me when I'm talking to you!" Heyman shouted in Cena's face before Cena hoisted him onto his shoulders, delivering an Attitude Adjustment! "Cena just put his hands on Paul Heyman!" Graves cried on commentary before Cena exited the ring to another mixed reaction. Cena has made it clear that even with Lesnar standing in his way, he intends on being Bateman's challenger for the WWE Universal Championship at WrestleMania.
Cameras frantically cut to the backstage area as commotion could be heard from afar. When the camera crew arrived to the scene, the WWE Universe saw Seth Rollins, Bobby Roode and the WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman handing a beating to the Intercontinental Champion, CM Punk. "It's not AJ Styles who you have to worry about!" Bateman yelled at Punk before throwing him into a wall, punishing 'The Best in the World' for making the decision earlier to join the WarGames team of the WWE Champion. Rollins and Roode grabbed Punk by his arms, holding him up and allowing Bateman to level him in the skull with the Universal Title! Punk was laid out on the ground as Bateman, Rollins and Roode left the scene, the latter competing up next against Styles.
► WWE CHAMPION AJ STYLES W/ CODY RHODES DEF. BOBBY ROODE W/ WWE UNIVERSAL CHAMPION DERRICK BATEMAN & SETH ROLLINS VIA DISQUALIFICATION: Before the commercial break, one of AJ Styles' teammates for Battleground, Intercontinental Champion CM Punk, was taken out, leaving Cody Rhodes as the only superstar in the WWE Champion's corner while Bobby Roode had the support of Seth Rollins and the WWE Universal Champion, Derrick Bateman. The fact that he was coming off of a hellacious Triple Threat match last night weakened Styles, a sight that Rollins marveled at as he looks forward to his one-on-one title shot tomorrow night on SmackDown Live. After Styles planted Roode with Ushigoroshi, he stepped out onto the ring apron for the Phenomenal Forearm. Before attempting it, he Moonsaulted off of the apron to take out Bateman and Rollins. Styles got back onto the apron, but when he stepped onto the top rope, Bateman was back on his feet and pushed Styles off. That resulted in the disqualification that nobody on Team Bateman seemed to care for. The assault on Styles continued, Rhodes failing to intervene as he was beaten down as well. Bateman, Roode and Rollins had Styles and Rhodes right where they wanted them until the entrance music of Dean Ambrose sounded. 'The Lunatic Fringe' ran down to the ring, Rollins immediately evading as he wanted no part of Ambrose's wrath tonight. Ambrose hit Bateman with a forearm strike before taking Roode down with a Thesz Press, hitting repeated shots to the forehead. By that point, Bateman had already retrieved his Universal Championship and made a beeline for the backstage area. Ambrose climbed up onto the top turnbuckle, descending with an Elbow Drop to a standing Roode! Ambrose rolled into the ring and asked for a microphone, Styles keeping his distance from 'The Lunatic Fringe' while Rhodes was accepting of Ambrose's assistance. Ambrose stared at Styles, trying to find the words to say to him. "... Sorry about your house," Ambrose said, the crowd responding with laughter before he got serious for a moment. "But hey, you need partners, right? And I want to be part of any team that's opposing Seth Rollins. You know better than anyone else, Styles, that if you piss me off, I'm gonna make your life hell. You should want that kind of person fighting by your side because if I was willing to drive a car into your house, just imagine what I'm willing to do to Team Bateman inside of WarGames." Ambrose extended his hand to Styles, who looked around the Quicken Loans Arena and saw the entire WWE Universe chanting "Yes!" Styles then glanced at Rhodes, who knew from experience with The Uprising that Ambrose could be trusted. Styles had already put his differences with Rhodes and Punk aside for the sake of building a team, and he would do the same for Ambrose. Styles accepted Ambrose's handshake, 'The Lunatic Fringe' now the fourth member of his team.
Returning to Monday Night RAW on USA, a recap of the aftermath in WWE Champion, AJ Styles, and Bobby Roode's match was shown as Dean Ambrose now joins the team of 'The Phenomenal One' in the WarGames match at Battleground. During the break, an order was issued by SmackDown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon and General Manage Kurt Angle to remove all members of Team Styles and Team Bateman except for the WWE Universal Champion himself from the Quicken Loans Arena. Bateman won't have any distractions nor aid tonight in his main event contest against the woman he eliminated to win the Royal Rumble match, Paige.
► SAMOA JOE DEF. DAMIEN SANDOW: Last night's Royal Rumble kicked off in a major way as 'The Samoan Submission Machine' Samoa Joe made his WWE debut. The final TNA World Heavyweight Champion made an impact in his very first WWE contest before being eliminated by Braun Strowman. In his Monday Night RAW debut, Joe took his frustrations out on Damien Sandow, making him pass out to the Coquina Clutch. Post-match, Byron Saxton headed into the ring to get a word with Joe, asking him why he believed now was the right time to join the WWE roster. "It was bound to happen someday. Just happened to be in the Royal Rumble match where I intended on becoming the first-ever WWE Universal Champion in my debut. Unfortunately, someone by the name of Braun Strowman decided otherwise. Wherever you are, Strowman, I know you're gonna hear this because nobody can run from Samoa Joe. Whether you show your face here or I have to come find you, Strowman, you're either getting knocked out or choked out. You don't get to make that choice. It's however I feel when I've got you in front of me again. 'The Samoan Submission Machine' has finally arrived and he's gonna beat Braun Strowman's ass." Joe exited the ring to an overwhelmingly positive response, the WWE Universe more than happy to see him finally join the promotion. However, they'll be even happier to see Joe get his hands on Strowman.
At this time, footage was shown from the parking lot area earlier in the day. As Antonio Cesaro was arriving to the Quicken Loans Arena, he was ambushed by The Revival. Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder, both of whom have had their issues with Cesaro as of late, delivered a beating to 'The Swiss Superman' that saw then give him a Back Body Drop onto the front of a car. Dash would then hold Cesaro up while Dawson opened the car door furiously, smashing it against the top of Cesaro's head. Cesaro was left laying in the parking lot while Dash and Dawson looked down at him, The Revival proud of their work.
A graphic was shown for tonight's main event. WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman takes on Paige in a non-title match, tonight on RAW!
Following the commercial break, a still image of 'Broken' Matt Hardy raising the Hardcore Championship last night at the Royal Rumble was shown. Hardy made a triumphant return to WWE by defeating Enzo Amore to capture the championship, declaring that his "broken brilliance" will change the landscape of professional wrestling forever. Hardy will make his first appearance as the Hardcore Champion, tomorrow night on SmackDown Live!
In the Quicken Loans Arena, the ring was shown propped and ready for the contract signing to make the first-ever women's WarGames match official for Battleground. SmackDown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon said that right before RAW went on the air tonight, he announced on the Pre-Show that at Battleground, two women with a score still yet to be settled coming out of the Royal Rumble will have their chance to finish the other off once and for all in a WarGames match. "Right now, we're gonna make this thing official. If I could get AJ Lee and Alexa Bliss out here to sign this contract, that'd be appreciated because there's an important part of this match I need to establish." A few seconds of silence passed before Alexa's theme sounded, 'The Wicked Witch of WWE' angrily marching down to the ring. She immediately took a microphone, not waiting for AJ to arrive before airing her grievances to Shane. "You're going to fix this, aren't you?! I was not disqualified at the Royal Rumble! AJ cheated! I should be the WWE Women's Champion right now! That referee needs to be fired and I need my rematch!" Alexa screamed into Shane's ear before AJ's music finally sounded. The WWE Universe went wild for the Women's Champion as she skipped down to the ring, Alexa having to keep her composure. AJ stepped into the ring, Alexa getting in her face as well. "You're a cheater! You're not a champion! I should have that title right now!" she yelled, AJ having her response ready to go. "But you don't, so... ?" Shane stepped in between the two superstars, giving Alexa the news that she wanted to hear. "Before we get into Battleground, you will have your rematch for the WWE Women's Championship tomorrow night on SmackDown Live, Alexa," Shane said, announcing the huge match for tomorrow. While Alexa was still livid over the manner in which she lost at the Royal Rumble, she would at least have a second chance at the Women's Title. Shane continued on, saying that both AJ and Alexa probably have the same concern for the WarGames match. "Two teams of five are needed for this match to take place. You two are in, but we nee eight more women. I understand that as far as the current roster goes, filling up those spots may not be possible. That's why for this match only, Kurt Angle and I have decided to grant you both permission to branch outside of the WWE. You two can select any female competitors from anywhere in the world. If you can get them to Battleground on February 23rd, they can compete," Shane said, giving AJ and Alexa the freedom to scout the globe for their teammates. "Go ahead and do your best, AJ," Alexa said. "It doesn't matter who you pick for your team or where you find them. I guarantee that not only will I have the superior team, but we're going to win WarGames. And I'll be leading the charge as the WWE Women's Champion." Alexa put her microphone down before signing the dotted line to officially make herself one of the team captains in WarGames. AJ, who smiled at Alexa the entire time, took the pen and added her name. "Well, there you have it. The first-ever women's WarGames match will take place in four weeks at Battleground!" Shane said to the approval of the fans in Cleveland. While AJ and Alexa stared each other down, commotion broke out in the audience as a brawl between Sofia Cortez and Kaitlyn had apparently spilled from the backstage area into ringside! Kaitlyn, who was responsible for Sofia's elimination from the Royal Rumble match, was thrown into the barricade, Shane rushing over to separate the two of them. With Shane no longer in the ring, Alexa struck AJ from behind! Alexa continued her assault on AJ before picking up the Women's Championship from the contract signing table. Alexa stared endlessly at the title before placing it down on the canvas. She then placed AJ on top of the table before heading to the top rope. Twisted Bliss was not to be, however, as AJ stepped onto the second rope. AJ hit Alexa with repeated shots to her body before placing her in position for a Superplex. AJ was fended off, allowing Alexa to step down onto the ring apron and leave the scene. Deciding that she needed to preserve her health for tomorrow's championship match, Alexa headed to the backstage area, Sofia and Kaitlyn on the side being escorted out by officials. AJ picked the WWE Women's Title back up and raised it high in the air, letting Alexa know that before they can think about WarGames, they have another encounter for the hold on SmackDown Live tomorrow night!
Backstage, Paige was shown sitting on the same staircase that she was earlier. This time, Paige was looking through the notes to her unborn child. The same ones she showed to Michael Cole in her interview days before Survivor Series, the night that her life changed forever. For the first time since that dreadful night in November, Paige was showing signs of being human once again. She wiped a single tear away from her right eye, her pupils still pitch-black to remind everybody that while she's changing, Bray Wyatt still has some form of control over her. Paige put the notes in one of the pockets of her jacket before standing up and walking away. 'The Anti-Diva' meets WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman in the main event, next!
Prior to the start of the main event, several graphics were shown to promote tomorrow night's live edition of SmackDown. In an Fatal Four Way Elimination match, Daniel Bryan, Adam Cole, Baron Corbin and Adrian Neville battle it out to determine who will challenge The Miz at Battleground for the United States Championship. AJ Lee defends the WWE Women's Championship against Alexa Bliss in a Royal Rumble rematch. Lastly, Seth Rollins has his one-on-one opportunity at the WWE Championship when he challenges AJ Styles. SmackDown Live, tomorrow night on SyFy!
► WWE UNIVERSAL CHAMPION DERRICK BATEMAN DEF. PAIGE IN A NON-TITLE MATCB: In one of the most heartbreaking moments in recent WWE history, Paige's dream of becoming the first female Heavyweight Champion came to an end last night when Derrick Bateman eliminated her at the end of the Royal Rumble match. Paige had her one shot at revenge, and for the first time since TLC, she was without any Wyatt Family members by her side. Bateman didn't have to deal with outside interference from anybody on Team Styles, but Paige proved to be almost too much for him to handle in the ring. Bateman attempted to deliver the One Percenter, but Paige pushed him sternum-first into the turnbuckles. When Bateman turned around, Paige caught him with a Bicycle Knee! She got the cover, but Bateman was able to get his shoulder up at two! The audience chanted "This is awesome!" as both superstars remained down on the canvas. When Paige attempted the Bicycle Knee again, Bateman countered it into the TKO! Bateman covered Paige, but somehow, 'The Anti-Diva' kicked out! Bateman's eyes and mouth were wide open as he couldn't believe that a woman was giving him, the first-ever WWE Universal Champion, the fight of his life. "She will not stay down! Paige refuses to let Bateman defeat her two nights in a row!" Mauro Ranallo shouted. Bateman went for the TKO yet again, but this time, Paige countered it into a Guillotine Choke! Paige kept the hold cinched in until Bateman began to fade, dropping to one knee. Paige let go of Bateman with the intention of hitting one more Bicycle Knee. While she was in motion for it, Bateman put up both of his hands to block her knee. Bateman then delivered a Discus Elbow to Paige before planting her with the One Percenter! Bateman got the cover on Paige again, this time getting the victory. Post-match, Bateman was handed back the WWE Universal Championship, raising it quickly before turning his attention back to Paige. Just for the sheer fact that she not only nearly eliminated him in the Royal Rumble match, but also because she came within inches of defeating him just now, he decided to punish her further. He grabbed her by the hair, picking her up to face her dark eyes. He raised his fist and intended on striking her when...
The signature of The Wyatt Family hit. The Cleveland audience erupted while the lights were out and got even louder when they came back on. Not only was Bray Wyatt standing in the ring, but the casket that Paige was trapped inside of between Survivor Series and TLC was at ringside. Bateman faced Wyatt, the WWE Universal Champion frozen in place. Wyatt took a few steps towards Bateman, the latter rolling out of the ring. Bateman clutched the Universal Title to his chest as he headed up the entrance ramp, wondering if Wyatt was going to go after him. In the ring, Paige began stirring to her feet, noticing Wyatt standing with his back turned against her. When she rose to her feet, Wyatt turned around and Clotheslined her! "Oh my God!" Mauro Ranallo yelled out as the WWE Universe gasped. Wyatt grabbed Paige's head and unloaded with a series of strikes. "Why did you make me do this?!?" Wyatt shouted before returning to his assault on Paige. Bateman remained on the stage, watching with just as much shock as anybody else at what he was witnessing. Wyatt brought Paige up to her feet, delivering Sister Abigail to 'The Anri-Diva.' While Paige was laid out, Wyatt stood on his knees and placed his hands against his face, 'The Eater of Worlds' appearing to actually be crying. "I believed in you!" screamed Wyatt, trying to hold back tears. He then picked Paige back up, delivering one more Sister Abigail before rolling her towards the casket. Wyatt opened it and placed Paige inside of it for the second time. He then shut the lid and exited the ring, practically collapsing on the top of the casket. Wyatt continued to cry, cameras showing Bateman one more time on the stage with a stunned expression.
"I believed in you, Abigail! I believed in you!"
A shattered Bray Wyatt has once again taken out Paige and nobody but 'The Eater of Worlds' knows why.
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Post by tg11 on Feb 17, 2017 13:20:23 GMT -5
WWE Universal Champion Derrick Bateman beating Paige...that doesn't come as a surprise because let's face it Bateman has been on a roll since last night since winning the 2014 WWE Royal Rumble Match to become the first ever WWE Universal Champion eliminating Paige last and then beating her here on RAW in the main event yeah Bateman he is practically untouchable at this point and not to mention he has formed quite the team already so far for WarGames at Battleground he has Roode and Rollins on his team but I wonder who will be the other 2 superstars who fill in those spots to make up Team Bateman? I mean Styles the WWE Champion on his team he has Cody Rhodes, WWE Intercontinental Champion CM Punk and Dean Ambrose on his team so that leaves 1 more spot open for Team Styles who I wonder who will be the 5th man to join this team?
Cena attacking Heyman...after that you can bet there will be Hell to pay especially with Lesnar considering the mood Lesnar is already in given how Bateman eliminated him in the Royal Rumble Match and then Cena putting his hands on Heyman...Lesnar will probably be even more unhinged than he already is...I see this leading up to a Triple Threat Match at WrestleMania 30...Triple Threat for the WWE Universal Championship with Bateman defending his title against Cena and Lesnar I mean especially after this that is what I see all roads leading up to
Broken Matt Hardy the new WWE Hardcore Champion I wonder if Enzo Amore will cash in or try to cash in on his rematch clause? Since he was WWE Hardcore Champion and lost the title to Matt last night at the Royal Rumble Enzo no doubt will want a rematch but I wonder if that will just happen at Battleground or?
WWE Women's Champion AJ Lee and Alexa Bliss having a championship match on Smackdown Live this Tuesday I wonder if this may be the time? Will it finally be the time that Alexa Bliss finally becomes the new WWE Women's Champion considering Alexa was this close to becoming champion but AJ more or less cheated to retain her title but I wonder that since they are choosing their teams for WarGames I wonder if AJ Lee will reach out to NXT to get Divas from there as well as the main roster to fill out her team? I wonder if Alexa Bliss will reach out to NXT to get Divas from there as well as the main roster to fill out her team as well?
Bray Wyatt taking out Paige...I think it is safe to say after that Paige is no longer a member of The Wyatt Family but I mean after this I wonder if this is the last we see of Paige for a while
Cesaro being taken out by The Revival...I think all roads lead up to Kassius Ohno Cesaro's former tag team partner returning to WWE and when that happens it ends up leading to a tag team feud
Jericho and Christian both reuniting turning heel and attacking Kidd I mean it was so unexpected but at the same time seeing Jericho and Christian reuniting this is probably the first time since 2003-04 that these 2 are back together as a team and seeing these 2 reunite all these years later if anyone knows the history between Jericho and Christian seeing them unite to take out the New Era of superstars they seem to have taken out Kidd so who will be next?
Orton being power bombed by Kevin Owens on the ring apron...I mean after that I even wonder if Orton will even make it to WrestleMania? I mean the ring apron power bomb it has taken out superstars such as Sami Zayn such as Daniel Bryan and Orton now suffering it...no doubt this has to put Orton on the shelf and if it does then I wonder how long Orton ends up on the shelf?
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