SD 2016: New SD posted (Joe/Rhyno, Tag Battle Royal)

Very excited to recapture that magical feeling; hoping you take this far.

Welcome home.

Smackdown kicked off with a recap of last week’s show showing how Styles is the #1 contender for the WWE Title, John Cena laid down to challenge for the Intercontinental Title for the first time in his career, and tonight’s 7-woman gauntlet match to determine the first Smackdown Women’s Champion.

The Miz and Maryse came down to the ring. Miz discussed how John Cena embarrassingly lost at Summerslam, while Miz successfully defended his title twice in three days. He said he’s sick of Cena automatically getting everything, and now he blames Daniel Bryan. Bryan then came out to a big reaction, and got into the ring. He told Miz that as Intercontinental Champion, he should want to face the very best, and it doesn’t get better than John Cena.

Miz said he’d rather face worthy contenders such as Ascension member Viktor or Zack Ryder. Bryan said Miz always brags about once winning a Wrestlemania main event, so he shouldn’t have a problem beating Cena again. Miz told Bryan that he’s become very pathetic, and that because he can’t wrestle anymore, he’s trying to live through his future brother-in-law. After Bryan stared at him, Miz said that he’s inviting both Bryan and Cena to Miz TV next week, and it can be “one, big, happy family”.

Backstage, AJ Styles walked up to Dean Ambrose and asked how he felt that he had less than two weeks remaining as WWE Champion. Styles reminded Ambrose that he’s better than him at everything. Ambrose invited Styles to come to the ring to watch his match later at ringside, and Styles accepted.

Breezango vs. The Uso’s vs. The Vaudevillains
This was a triple threat tag team match, with the winners facing American Alpha at Backlash. Late in the match, Jimmy gave Gotch a clothesline out of the ring. Fandango then started brawling with Jimmy. In the ring, Breeze went up to the top rope, and gave English a suplex off the top rope. However, as soon as they hit the mat, Jey jumped off the top rope for a splash onto Breeze, and he got the win for his team.
Winners: The Uso’s

The announcers spoke about how The Uso’s will take on American Alpha at Backlash for the Smackdown Tag Team Championship. They also hyped tonight’s 7-woman gauntlet match to determine the Smackdown Women’s Champion, as things headed backstage.

Randy Orton was seen talking to Shane McMahon about what happened at Summerslam. Shane told Orton that things got out of control, and that he can take it easy. Orton told Shane that he doesn’t know how to take it easy, and he stormed out.

Alberto Del Rio vs. Dolph Ziggler
This was a solid, stiff-looking match between the two. Del Rio gave Ziggler an enziguri late in the match. He sent up for his cross armbreaker, but Ziggler shoved him, but Del Rio went into the referee. Ziggler then super kicked Del Rio, and both men were down, along with the referee. Then out of nowhere, Orton came into the ring and gave Ziggler an RKO as Ziggler got up. As Del Rio got back to his feet, Orton gave Del Rio an RKO. Orton left, but with the way Del Rio fell, his arm was slightly draped over Ziggler. The referee came to, saw Del Rio on Ziggler, and counted to three.
Winner: Alberto Del Rio

The announcers touted how that’s three losses for Ziggler in two weeks, and they also questioned why Orton gave both competitors an RKO.

Things then switched to a Samoa Joe vignette, and again it said, “Coming Soon: Expect The Unexpected”.

Kane was interviewed backstage, and he spoke about facing Bray Wyatt at Backlash. He said he’s dealt with Wyatt before, and he’s going to take him to hell and get rid of him before he goes down "that rabbit hole" again.

Kane vs. Viktor w/Konnor
Kane was doing his pyro taunt, but instead of fire shooting off, nothing went off, and Wyatt’s laugh was heard throughout the arena. Once the bell rang, this was a complete squash, as Kane won with a Chokeslam in under two minutes.
Winner: Kane

John Cena was interviewed backstage. He said he has done it all in WWE. Held the WWE Title more times than he can count, Tag Team Champion multiple times, and United States Champion. At Backlash, he’ll complete the cycle, and he’ll see Miz on Miz TV next week.

A video package showed different historical moments in WWE history for the Women's Title, and the announcers spoke about the significance of tonight's main event. 

Non-Title: Baron Corbin vs. Dean Ambrose (WWE Champion)
AJ Styles was on commentary for the match. Ambrose controlled the majority of the match, but Corbin got in some offense. Late in the match, Ambrose hit the Lunatic Lariat. He was about to set up for Dirty Deeds, but Styles went on the apron and fixed his armband, as if he was going to go for the Phenomenal Forearm. This distraction allowed Corbin to hit The End of Days. Corbin went for the cover, but Ambrose kicked out, to the shock of Corbin and Styles. Corbin went for it again, but Ambrose countered out of it, hit Dirty Deeds, and got the victory.
Winner: Dean Ambrose

A video showed all seven women quickly talking about why they were going to become Women’s Champion. The gauntlet match was hyped up next.

Women’s Championship Gauntlet Match: Alexa Bliss vs. Becky Lynch vs. Carmella vs. Eva Marie vs. Naomi vs. Natalya vs. Nikki Bella

Alexa Bliss vs. Naomi
This was kept fairly short, and Bliss pinned Naomi with a DDT.
Naomi has been eliminated

Alexa Bliss vs. Natalya
This was also kept somewhat short. Bliss went for a DDT, but Natalya moved out of the way, dropped her down, and made her tap out to the Sharpshooter.
Alexa Bliss has been eliminated

Eva Marie vs. Natalya
Eva came down, and a few women followed her down with a table. The referee and Natalya were yelling at Eva to get in the ring. However, everything got set up at ringside, and it appeared like Eva was getting a manicure. Things presumably never got started, and Becky Lynch came out to continue the gauntlet.
Eva Marie didn’t enter the ring

Becky Lynch vs. Natalya
The announcers pointed out how Natalya has already fought twice, and thought she was getting Eva next. Becky controlled a bit, but Natalya came back. She went for the Sharpshooter, but Becky slipped out of it into a Disearm-her, and Natalya tapped out.
Natalya has been eliminated

Becky Lynch vs. Carmella
Carmella entered immediately and started hammering away on Becky. She actually controlled the majority of their match, but Becky eventually made her tap out to the Disearm-her.
Carmella has been eliminated

Becky Lynch vs. Nikki Bella
The announcers hyped that one of these two women would be the first ever Smackdown Women’s Champion. Becky was tired, but this match was pretty back and forth. Late in the match, Nikki was building momentum, and she gave Becky her forearm. She went for her new TKO finisher, but Becky slipped out into a crucifix pin, and she got three count.
Nikki Bella has been eliminated

The announcers hyped how Becky Lynch won three straight matches to become Smackdown Women’s Champion. She was catching her breath around the middle ring apron, when Eva Marie took a bowl full of some substance from her manicure, and threw it into Becky’s face. Becky was totally blinded, and Eva then came into the ring and rolled Becky up.

Becky Lynch vs. Eva Marie
The referee wasn’t sure what to do, and after a few seconds, he started counting, and Eva got the three count.
Becky Lynch was been eliminated

Winner and new Women’s Champion, Eva Marie

Eva started jumping up and down celebrating, while some of the audience groaned. Officials came to ringside with a towel to assist Becky. Mauro and Otunga talked about how it was unfair how Eva didn’t participate when it was her turn, and Becky had faced four different people. JBL talked about how it was a brilliant strategy on Eva’s part. There were some boos and groans as Eva held the title up to close the show.

The show opened with the announcers hyping Miz TV with Daniel Bryan & John Cena, AJ Styles in action, and Randy Orton vs. Dolph Ziggler later tonight. A recap of last week’s main event was shown, with Becky Lynch winning three straight matches in the gauntlet, and Eva Marie sneakily winning the title at the end.

Eva Marie (Women’s Champion) & Naomi vs. Natalya & Nikki Bella
The show opened with this tag team match, as Naomi didn’t want to be teaming with Eva at all. Natalya was working on Naomi for a bit, and they had a double clothesline. Natalya tagged in Nikki, and Naomi went to tag in Eva, but Eva dropped off the ring apron, and was admiring her Women’s Title belt. Nikki wasn’t positive what to do, but kicked Naomi, hit her with a TKO, and got the victory.
Winners: Natalya & Nikki Bella

Alexa and Carmella were talking backstage, saying how they bet that Natalya and Nikki were so happy with their victory, even though it’s not a big deal. They agreed that they could easily beat them in a tag team match.

Another Samoa Joe vignette aired and it once again said “Coming Soon: Expect The Unexpected”.

Chad Gable w/Jason Jordan vs. Jey Uso w/Jimmy Uso
Mauro hyped up that one of these teams will be crowned the Smackdown Tag Team Champions at Backlash. It was a pretty even match, with the crowd being somewhat quiet, given it’s two faces. Late in the match, Jey did a suicide dive onto the Gable on the outside, and he hit Jordan a little bit as well by accident. As Jey got up, Jordan started arguing with him. Gable and Jimmy joined in, and both men were counted out.
Double Countout

Chad Gable w/Jason Jordan vs. Jimmy Uso w/Jey Uso
This match joined in progress after the break, as Mauro said that Daniel Bryan made the match based on the way the previous match ended. This one was more fast paced, and both men were on edge. Late in the match, Jimmy gave Gable a superkick. He went for a top rope splash from the top, but Gable moved out of the way. He then gave him a German suplex, and surprisingly got the three count.
Winner: Chad Gable

American Alpha looked pleased, as The Uso’s motioned that they were going to be the next champions.

After the commercial break, Bray Wyatt was cutting a promo in a dark room. He rambled on for a bit and said how when he’s done with Kane, he will become Kane. Rowan appeared, Wyatt laughed, and the video cut out.

Dolph Ziggler vs. Randy Orton
This match was back and forth, and Ziggler hit a fameasser for a near fall. Orton then hit his DDT, and started slamming the mat to set up for an RKO. As he was doing it, Alberto Del Rio came out. He came to the ring to get in Orton’s face. Orton was distracted, and Ziggler charged at him. However, Ziggler hit Del Rio, and Orton RKO’d Ziggler to get the win. This marked Ziggler’s fourth singles loss in the last few weeks, dating back to Summerslam.
Winner: Randy Orton

Afterwards, Ziggler was pissed at Del Rio, and Orton was smirking. All three eventually started arguing, and Shane McMahon came out to a pretty big pop. Shane told Orton that he wanted him to get back on track, but this wasn’t what he had in mind. So at Backlash, it would be Orton, against Ziggler, against Del Rio in a triple threat match. And the winner of that match, would be guaranteed a future WWE Title shot. All three men looked pretty pleased.

Becky Lynch was interviewed backstage. She said that last week she beat three women, and Eva sat out the whole match, threw “crap in her face”, and is now holding her belt. She said that thankfully she was granted a match against Eva at Backlash. She said that Eva will have to really get into the ring with her, and find out why she is the Lasskicker.

AJ Styles was warming up for his match with Kalisto, and Dean Ambrose came up to him. Ambrose said just like Styles was last week, he’ll be at ringside for Styles’ match against Kalisto. Styles said the match would be historic, as it would be the last match Styles has before he becomes WWE Champion.

AJ Styles vs. Kalisto
This was a pretty fast paced match, with some good mat work between the two. However, Styles was in control for the majority of the match. Styles gave Kalisto a DDT, and then set up for the Styles Clash. Ambrose yelled something at him to distract him, and Kalisto rolled Styles up, and was so close to getting a three count. Styles then kicked Kalisto hard, and gave him a Styles Clash. Instead of going for the cover, he went out to set up for the Phenomenal Forearm. He was taunting Ambrose and went to set up for it. However, Ambrose went into the ring, looked at Styles, picked up Kalisto, and gave him the Dirty Deeds. The referee then called for the bell.
Winner: Kalisto (By Disqualification)

Ambrose laughed as he walked up the ramp with his title, as Styles was pissed that Ambrose got him purposefully disqualified.

The main event segment kicked off with the Miz TV set in the ring, and Miz and Maryse came out. Miz spoke about how he is the greatest Intercontinental Champion of all time, and despite losing clean in the middle of the ring at Summerslam, John Cena was granted a championship match just because he’s John Cena.

He then introduced Daniel Bryan, who came out. Miz said that Daniel Bryan still has it out for him, and that Bryan is jealous. He said Bryan wishes he could still wrestle in that ring, and now he said that Brie Bella has convinced him to call in favors for her sister’s boyfriend (this marked the first time that Nikki Bella’s real-life romance with John Cena was mentioned on Raw or Smackdown). Bryan said one loss to one of the best wrestlers in the world doesn’t discredit everything that Cena has done. He said Cena is arguably the greatest WWE superstar of all-time, and he wants to see if he can win the one title that he has never won. Maryse then took the microphone and told Bryan to back to his stupid wife and even-dumber sister in-law, because nobody wants to hear what he has to say. Shortly after, Nikki Bella’s music hit, and she came out.

Nikki then got in Maryse’s face, and Miz was yelling at Nikki and Bryan. Right on cue, this prompted John Cena to come out to a big ovation. Cena rushed out and tried to calm everyone down. He said it’s simple- this coming Sunday, he’s going to become the Intercontinental Champion. He said he’s better than The Miz, more accomplished than The Miz, and more of a man than The Miz. Suddenly, this prompted Maryse to slap Nikki across the face. They started clawing at one another, as the guys tried to separate them. Nikki then grabbed one of the Miz TV chairs, and threw it in the direction of Miz and Maryse. However, they ducked out of the way, and the chair hit Bryan, knocking him down. Nikki went to check on Bryan, as Miz hit Cena with a Skull Crushing Finale. Miz and Maryse fled the ring up the ramp, and looked pleased with themselves. Nikki looked mad, as Bryan and Cena were both struggling to their feet, as the show came to a close.

Pre-Show: The Ascension vs. The Hype Bros
Standard tag match with the Hype Bros picking up the win after Ryder pinned Viktor with the Rough Ryder.
Winners: The Hype Bros

Tag Team Titles: American Alpha vs. The Uso’s
This was a pretty good match, with some dueling chants for the two face teams. Late in the match, the action spilled and all four men were in the ring. The Uso’s gave Gable a double superkick, but Jordan gave Jey a clothesline. As Jey got up, he went for a super kick, but hit Jimmy by accident. Jey was checking on Jimmy, but American Alpha then hit him with their Grand Amplitude finisher to get the win and become champions.
Winners and new Tag Team Champions: American Alpha

American Alpha celebrated their big win on the ramp, as the Uso’s looked annoyed in the ring.

Bray Wyatt w/Erick Rowan vs. Kane
This match was a bit slower paced, although fairly back and forth. Kane hit a sidewalk slam, and then hit his clothesline from the top rope. However, Wyatt popped right up and started to do his crab walk. When he ended his crab walk, Kane then grabbed him for a Chokeslam. However, Wyatt got out, pushed Kane, and Kane knocked over the referee. Kane was then going for a Chokeslam, but Rowan came in the ring. Kane punched Rowan a few times, and then hit him with a Chokeslam. Just then, a returning Luke Harper came out and gave Kane a big boot. The announcers pointed out that he has been gone for several months, as Harper gave Kane a discus clothesline. Harper and Rowan left the ring and Wyatt picked Kane up for Sister Abigail. He hit it, and the referee slowly made the three count.
Winner: Bray Wyatt

After the match, the Wyatt’s posed in the ring together, as JBL said on commentary that the entire Smackdown roster should beware.

Backstage, Todd Phillips was interviewing Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler said that he’s been on a losing streak as of late, but that can all turn around tonight. He said after he wins the triple threat match, he’ll receive a future WWE Title shot, and he’ll pay close attention to tonight’s main event.

Winner Receives Future WWE Title Shot: Alberto Del Rio vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Randy Orton
This was a good match, with all three men working hard. Only a few minutes in, Orton hit Ziggler with an RKO, and JBL was screaming about how Ziggler was about to lose again. Orton went for the cover, but Del Rio broke it up. Ziggler hit Orton with a Famasser a few minutes later for a near fall. Late in the match, Ziggler hit Orton with a superkick, and then Del Rio planted Ziggler with a DDT. Del Rio brought Ziggler into the corner for his double stomp. Del Rio hit it, and as soon as Del Rio landed, Orton gave him an RKO, but Del Rio rolled out of the ring. Orton then slammed the mat, waited for Ziggler to slowly get up, and planted Ziggler with an RKO to pick up the win, and give Ziggler yet another loss.
Winner: Randy Orton

Orton was pleased with himself, as Ziggler seemed pretty dejected. Another Samoa Joe vignette then aired and it once again said, "Coming Soon: Expect The Unexpected". 

Becky Lynch was standing by with Todd Phillips backstage. She said that she’s seen Eva Marie not tag herself into matches and get a manicure while Becky was busting her ass in the gauntlet. She said that the match tonight will be over so quickly, and she might take Eva’s arm while she’s at it.

Alexa Bliss & Carmella vs. Natalya & Nikki Bella
The crowd became more quiet for this match, albeit the women tried. Late in the match, Alexa was working on Nikki, and she did the “you can’t see me” taunt, which drew some cheers from the crowd. All four women were in the ring late in the match, and then Natalya put Carmella in a Sharpshooter. While in that position, Alexa gave Natalya a DDT. Just as Alexa got up, Nikki picked her up, and gave her a TKO to get the win for her team.
Winners: Natalya & Nikki Bella

Women’s Title: Eva Marie (Women’s Champion) vs. Becky Lynch
Becky came out with a super serious look on her face, and Eva looked nonchalant. After the bell rang, Eva kept getting in and out of the ring to stall. Becky eventually grabbed her, and started pounding away. However, Eva raked Becky’s eyes, and briefly took control of the match. However, Becky seized back control, and gave her a couple snap suplexes. Becky was trying to put her in the Disarm-her, but Eva slipped out. However, she yelled for the referee to come to her, as it looked like she had some sort of wardrobe malfunction. Just then, a returning Tamina hit the ring, and gave Becky a superkick, which drew some groans from the crowd. After Tamina left and went out of sight, Eva crawled over to Becky. The referee was confused, started counting, and counted to three.
Winner and still Women’s Champion: Eva Marie

Eva and Tamina celebrated up the ramp, as a video package then showed some of John Cena’s career accomplishments.

Intercontinental Title: The Miz (Intercontinental Champion) vs. John Cena
The crowd was pretty hot for this match, with dueling chants as well. It was what you’d expect from these two, with the match picking up late after Cena hitting his usual comeback sequence. He went for the AA, but Miz slipped out, kicked him, and gave him his DDT for a near fall. He went for his Skull Crushing Finale, but Cena tripped him, into his STF. Miz was about to tap, but Maryse went onto the apron to distract him. Cena went over to Maryse, and Maryse slapped him. Miz then rolled Cena up, but Cena just kicked out. Maryse was still on the apron, and then Nikki Bella ran down, and knocked Maryse off. This distracted Miz a bit, and he turned around, and Cena hit him with a quick AA, to get the win and finally become Intercontinental Champion.
Winner and new Intercontinental Champion: John Cena

Cena celebrated with his new title, which was weird to see. Nikki was clapping for Cena, and Maryse was checking on Miz.

WWE Title: Dean Ambrose (WWE Champion) vs. AJ Styles
This was another good match, with more dueling chants from the crowd. Midway through the match, Styles put Ambrose in the Calf Crusher. He actually had it locked in for quite a while, but Ambrose refused to tap, and eventually got to the ropes. Ambrose was limping around after, but hit his lunatic lariat. Ambrose went for Dirty Deeds, but Styles countered out of it, and gave Ambrose a pele kick. He went for the Styles Clash, but Ambrose flipped him over. Ambrose then rolled Styles into a small package, but Styles just kicked out before three. Ambrose then grabbed Styles, threw him to the ground, and gave him a slingshot into the turnbuckle. Styles came back, and Ambrose went for the dirty deeds, but his leg gave out, from the Calf Crusher earlier. Styles then kicked Ambrose, and hit the Styles Clash. Styles went for the cover, but Ambrose kicked out at the last second, and Styles couldn’t believe it. Styles then picked Ambrose up, and hit him with the Styles Clash. He went for the cover, and Ambrose once again somehow kicked out at the very last second. Some of the crowd went crazy, and the announcers couldn’t believe it. Styles then went for a third Styles Clash, and hit it. Instead of going for the cover, Styles went to the outside. He set up for the Phenomenal Forearm; Ambrose slowly got up, and Styles hit him with the Phenomenal Forearm. Styles went for the cover, the referee started counting, and this time, he got to three.
Winner and new WWE Champion: AJ Styles

Styles looked emotional, but was able to hold his composure. He put his Cena armband back on his head after the match, and held his WWE Title up high. Todd Phillips closed Backlash by saying “Tonight was a night that featured returns, heartbreak, and three new champions, but there is one man who runs Smackdown, and his name is AJ Styles”.

Smackdown kicked off with the new WWE Champion, AJ Styles coming to the ring. Styles said that he still had John Cena’s headband when he beat him, and he showed off a piece of Dean Ambrose’s wrist tape that he picked up after their match, and he’ll wear that now. And most importantly, Styles is now WWE Champion. Styles said that he has been a success everywhere he’s been, but even he is a bit surprised at how good he is, considering he has been in WWE for half a year and is already WWE Champion.

While he was talking, the commissioner of Smackdown, Shane McMahon came out. Shane congratulated Styles on becoming WWE Champion. He said Backlash was an awesome show, but No Mercy is right around the corner, four weeks away. Shane said that based on last night’s triple threat match, Randy Orton gets a future WWE Title shot. And what better place to do this dream match for the WWE Title, than No Mercy. Styles looked like he had mixed opinions on Shane’s announcement, as Randy Orton came out. Orton stared down Styles, as the show went to commercial.

Non-Title: AJ Styles (WWE Champion) vs. Kalisto
Randy Orton stayed on the entrance ramp to watch the match from afar. This was a rematch from last week, since Ambrose had gotten Styles disqualified on purpose. Kalisto got in some high-flying offense, but Styles controlled most of the match. Late in the match, Styles hit Kalisto with a pele kick. He went to the apron, went for the Phenomenal Forearm, and hit it. Instead of going for the cover, Styles picked Kalisto up. Kalisto was staggering, and Styles hit him with an RKO. Styles trash talked Orton, and then went for the cover on Kalisto, and got the easy three count.
Winner: AJ Styles

Styles and Orton grinned at each other from afar as the announcers hyped up this dream match for the WWE Title at Backlash.

Yet another vignette aired for Samoa Joe, saying “Coming Soon: Expect The Unexpected”.

Non-Title: American Alpha (Tag Team Champions) vs. The Ascension
The Ascension surprisingly dominated the first couple minutes of the match, as the announcers questioned the idea that American Alpha was riding too high off of their title victory. However, Alpha got control, and Jordan actually got the pin on Viktor off of just a German suplex.
Winners: American Alpha

After the match, The Usos appeared on the titantron. They had their backs turned to the camera. They said that Alpha beat them fair and square at Backlash. The Usos said that they spoke to Daniel Bryan, and Bryan granted them a rematch at No Mercy, under the stipulation that if the Usos lose, they won’t get another title shot at American Alpha, as long as American Alpha are champions. They said Alpha got off easy, but it won’t happen again. Jimmy said that they’ll see them at No Mercy.

Dean Ambrose went into Daniel Bryan’s office backstage. He asked what the hell was that (in reference to The Usos getting an instant rematch, but not him). Bryan said that The Usos made a compelling offer, plus Randy Orton was the #1 contender to the WWE Title already. Bryan said to give him time to think about what he can do for Ambrose. Ambrose waited two seconds, and said “time’s up”, and left.

Eva Marie (Women’s Champion) & Tamina vs. Natalya & Nikki Bella
This was a fine back and forth match, with Tamina doing most of the work on the heel side. Late in the match, Maryse (who has been having issues with Nikki Bella) ran down. As Natalya tried to tag in Nikki, Maryse tripped Nikki off the apron. The two started fighting, and Byron Saxton questioned why the referee wasn’t ringing the bell. Tamina then gave Natalya a superkick and a splash from the top rope. However, she tagged in Eva, who got the actual pin.
Winners: Eva Marie & Tamina

After the commercial break, Nikki and Maryse were fighting backstage. Daniel Bryan came up to them and announced a match between the two of them for next week, which Nikki looked more pleased about than Maryse.

Dolph Ziggler vs. Luke Harper w/Bray Wyatt & Erick Rowan
The announcers touted that Ziggler has lost every match since Summerslam. It was pretty back and forth, but every time Ziggler built momentum, Wyatt or Rowan would distract Ziggler. Eventually, Wyatt distracted the referee, and Rowan went onto the apron. Ziggler superkicked him off, but walked right into a discus clothesline from Harper, and that was it.
Winner: Luke Harper

After the match, the Wyatt’s posed in the ring. The lights went out, and when they came back on, Bray Wyatt was wearing Kane’s first mask when he was in the WWE. The lights went out again, and laughter was heard from Wyatt.

Aiden English w/Simon Gotch vs. Dean Ambrose
English tried to come out firing, but Ambrose was having none of it. He gave his lunatic lariat, and also punched Gotch off the apron. He then gave English the Dirty Deeds. He then picked English up, and gave him another Dirty Deeds. He walked around a bit as the crowd chanted “one more time”. He then picked English up again, and gave him a third Dirty Deeds, and then decided to win the match.
Winner: Dean Ambrose

John Cena (with Nikki Bella) came out to a big pop for the main event segment. Cena said that he’s been a World Champion 15 times, US Champion & Tag Team Champion more times than he can count, and now he’s Intercontinental Champion. He said he’ll treat the title with respect, honor, and take on all challengers. Miz’s music hit as he and Maryse came out and headed to the ring. Miz said he would’ve come out earlier, but he was too busy vomiting backstage. Miz said he has busted his ass making the Intercontinental Title the most prestigious title in all of WWE, and Cena just decides he wants a shot, and now he has Miz’s title.

Miz said next week that his wife will kick John Cena’s girlfriend’s ass. He then asked Nikki if she’s happy being the girlfriend who will never get a ring. Nikki then slapped Miz, and Maryse speared her down, and the two started fighting. Miz then sucker punched Cena, and they started fighting as well. Nikki got the better of Maryse, and she gave Maryse a TKO. Nikki then slapped Miz, and Cena then grabbed Miz and gave him an AA. Cena’s music hit as Cena and Nikki started celebrating. Just then, out of nowhere, (a debuting) Samoa Joe hit the ring. He shoved Nikki out of the way to the floor, and grabbed Cena from behind. He put Cena into a rear naked choke. Cena started fading away, as Joe was yelling at him. Referees started coming down to the ring to pull Joe off of Cena. Joe grabbed Cena’s Intercontinental Title belt, and threw it in Nikki’s direction. Mauro talked about how disgusting this was, as the camera panned on Joe’s face to close the show.

Smackdown kicked off with Daniel Bryan coming down to the ring. Bryan reminded everyone about the dream match between AJ Styles and Randy Orton for the WWE Title at No Mercy. Bryan then called out the former WWE Champion, Dean Ambrose. Ambrose came out to the ring, didn’t grab a microphone, and asked Bryan what he had for him. Bryan said that he knows Ambrose wants to get back into the WWE Title picture. Before he could say anything else, The Miz came out, and came to the ring. The Miz said speaking of getting back into the title picture, he wants a rematch for the Intercontinental Title tonight.

Bryan said it’s funny that Miz came out, since he was going to be involved in his announcement. Bryan said that if he knows John Cena well, he’ll want to get his hands on Samoa Joe, based on Joe’s debut last week. But even though he doesn’t like Miz, Miz brings up some valid points. So at No Mercy, it will be Dean Ambrose vs. The Miz, and the winner receives a rematch for the title that they lost. Ambrose looked happy with that, but Miz not as much. Ambrose then told Miz that he’ll plow through him at No Mercy, but until then, he doesn’t need to get involved in his life and drama, and as long as Miz stays away from him, he’ll stay away from Miz. Ambrose left the ring, as Miz was staring down Bryan.

Non-Title Match: American Alpha (Tag Team Champions) vs. The Ascension
This match lasted a few minutes, and was a showcase for American Alpha. They eventually finished off Viktor with Grand Amplitude.
Winners: American Alpha

Todd Phillips was standing backstage with Kane. Kane said that he knows the Wyatt Family pretty well, but he miscalculated and didn’t see Luke Harper returning at Backlash. Kane said he’s been granted a match against The Wyatt Family at No Mercy, but he needs to find partners. He said he needs some help to take out all three of them, and maybe he’ll find it by watching the next match.

Breezango vs. Erick Rowan & Luke Harper w/Bray Wyatt
Wyatt was wearing Kane’s mask at first, but eventually lifted it over his head so it wasn’t as visible. Rowan gave Fandango a big boot for a near fall. Late in the match, all four men got into it, in the ring. Rowan dumped Breeze onto the outside, and then Rowan whipped Fandango right into a discus clothesline from Harper, and that was all it took to pick up the win.
Winners: Erick Rowan & Luke Harper

After the match, Kane came down and started fighting with The Wyatt Family. Breezango tried to join in, but they were of no help. Eventually, Harper and Rowan were too much for Kane, and then Wyatt hit Kane with Sister Abigail. He then put Kane’s old mask back on, as Wyatt looked down at Kane.

Becky Lynch was interviewed backstage. She said she was so frustrated about what happened at Backlash, that she took off last week to clear her mind. Becky said she will do whatever it takes to get her hands on Eva Marie, and put some dignity into the Smackdown Women’s Championship.

Naomi vs. Tamina w/Eva Marie
This was Tamina’s first match back in several months. As Naomi would build offense, Eva would kept yelling in her direction. She eventually went for the Rear View, but Eva distracted her, and Naomi missed. Tamina then picked up Naomi and gave her a Samoan drop. Tamina then went to the top rope and hit a splash to pick up the win.
Winner: Tamina

John Cena came to the ring, and had a pretty serious look on his face. He said he’s getting straight to the point, and he yelled for Samoa Joe to come to the ring. Cena had to wait about 20 seconds, and Joe’s music hit, and he came out, but stood on the entrance ramp. Cena said he heard Joe loud and clear last week. He said if he wanted a piece of John Cena, he didn’t have to shove a woman to the ground, and he didn’t have to attack Cena from behind during a historic moment of his career.

Joe said that he doesn’t care about how Cena thinks he should, and shouldn’t operate. Joe said it’s real simple; Cena is going to give him an Intercontinental Title shot at No Mercy, and Joe will have the most impactful debut in WWE history when he beats John Cena in his first match. And not only that, but Joe will become Intercontinental Champion, and Cena won’t even be able to successfully defend the title that eluded him for so long. Cena said Joe doesn’t deserve a shot, but if this is what it’s going to take for him to get his hands on him, then he’s on. Joe looked pleased as his music hit, and he left the stage.

Maryse vs. Nikki Bella
Per Daniel Bryan, both John Cena and The Miz were banned from ringside for this match. This was Maryse’s first match in over five years. This match wasn’t the cleanest, but the intensity was there. Maryse went for her French Kiss DDT, but Nikki rolled her up for a near fall. Later in the match, Nikki hit Maryse with her forearm. She went for the TKO, but suddenly, Alexa Bliss ran down. Alexa got on the apron, and distracted Nikki. Maryse then kicked her in the head from behind. Nikki went down but was still on her knees, and then Maryse grabbed her, and hit her with the French Kiss DDT to pick up the win.
Winner: Maryse

Maryse looked please, as Alexa just stared at Nikki. After that, a vignette for the Uso’s played. The Uso’s were staring at one another, saying they have to win at No Mercy.

Alberto Del Rio vs. Randy Orton
The main event started off with a bang as Orton gave Del Rio an RKO about two minutes into the match. However, the impact of the RKO sent Del Rio to the outside, so by the time Orton got him back into the ring, Del Rio had enough time to kick out. Del Rio eventually took control with some stiff kicks. Del Rio went for his double stomp, but Orton got out of the position, and gave Del Rio a top rope suplex for a near fall. Eventually, Orton set up for the RKO. However, Del Rio countered, and kicked Orton a few times. He went for his cross armbreaker, but Orton threw Del Rio away, and Del Rio ran right back into an RKO to end the match.
Winner: Randy Orton

While Randy Orton was celebrating, AJ Styles came out. Orton’s back was turned, and Styles was setting up for his Phenomenal Forearm. Styles went for it, but Orton gave Styles an RKO in mid-air. Orton then took the WWE Title and posed with it, as the announcers said that Styles will be in a world of trouble at No Mercy.

Shane McMahon kicked off Smackdown as he came out to a big pop on the stage. Shane said that Smackdown was firing on all cylinders, and we were less than two weeks away from a stacked No Mercy. But he talked about how the next two Smackdowns will feature big main events. He said next week (with some boos from the live crowd), it will be one of the biggest tag team matches in Smackdown history, as the dream team of Dean Ambrose and John Cena take on AJ Styles and The Miz.

And he said that’s next week, but let’s worry about tonight. He said that tonight, for the first time ever, it will be a main event featuring all of the champions- literally. Shane said that it will be the Tag Team Champions, American Alpha, taking on the unlikely combination of the WWE Champion, AJ Styles, and the Intercontinental Champion, John Cena. And the special guest referee? The Women’s Champion, Eva Marie. The crowd seemed pleased with the announcement, as the announcers speculated how Cena and Styles could possibly co-exist against an established tag team, and how Eva Marie would be as referee.

Daniel Bryan was shown backstage with Becky Lynch. Bryan said she knows Becky has been frustrated by all of these games Eva has been playing, but he has a solution. He said tonight, if Becky can pin or submit Tamina, then Becky will get another title match against Eva at No Mercy. Becky looked please, and told Bryan to just book the match, since it’ll be a forgone conclusion.

Todd Phillips was standing by backstage with Alexa Bliss. Footage aired last week of Alexa helping Maryse defeat Nikki Bella. Phillips was asking Alexa why she did what she did. Alexa said she’s been trying to figure out how to make a name for herself on Smackdown, and Nikki is seemingly the best target. Outside of that, she says that Nikki thinks she’s a bigger star than she is, and she’s trying to use her boyfriend’s fame to her advantage. Alexa ended by saying at No Mercy, she’ll show that Nikki’s time has come and gone.

Alexa Bliss vs. Natalya
This match wasn’t too long, although it was decent for what it was. Alexa went for her DDT, but Natalya kicked out of it, and hit a discus clothesline. She then went for a Sharpshooter, but Alexa wiggled out of it, grabbed Natalya, rolled her up into a small package, and got the win.
Winner: Alexa Bliss

Alexa celebrated her victory, as things went backstage to Kane walking into the locker room of The Hype Bros. Kane told them that he needs help with The Wyatt Family, and he thinks The Hype Bros could be the perfect guys. Mojo looked interested, but Ryder said that he hasn’t forgotten all the pain and suffering Kane caused him years ago. Kane said “yeah……..my bad” (as the crowd laughed). Kane told them to think about it, and let him know by next week.

A fairly lengthy video package was shown, highlighting AJ Styles vs. Randy Orton. There were still shots from earlier in their careers, showing Styles in WCW, as well as a few pictures of him on the Indy scene. On the flip side, there were photos of Orton being Intercontinental Champion earlier in his career, being WWE Champion at Wrestlemania, and a few others. After the video package, the announcers hammered home the fact that people have been waiting over a decade for this dream match, and it's happening in less than two weeks.

The Hype Bros vs. The Vaudevillains
This was basically a squash match, as Ryder picked up the win for his team by pinning English after a Rough Ryder.
Winners: The Hype Bros

The Hype Bros celebrated their win, but the lights went out, and The Wyatt Family appeared in the ring. The Wyatt’s attacked The Hype Bros and got the better of them. They beat The Hype Bros down, as Wyatt posed with Kane’s old mask to end the segment.

Samoa Joe was backstage, and he cut a promo on John Cena. He said Cena will be real busy these next two weeks in these two big tag match main events. Joe said that Cena should continue to expect the unexpected, and that Cena and his girlfriend should be on the lookout, since they never know when Joe will be over their shoulder. Joe said that Cena has done it all in the WWE, and he finally got the title that eluded him. But Joe said that Cena, Nikki, and all of the women and children of the WWE Universe will be super let down by Cena when he fails to successfully defend the title one single time.

American Alpha was shown backstage. They talked about tonight’s main event and said how it was their chance to defeat two of the best to ever do it. Although Gable brought up how he wasn’t sure how Eva Marie would do as referee. Jordan said just like at No Mercy, they’ll be victorious.

Apollo Crews vs. The Miz w/Maryse
Crews taunted Miz early on by asking him where his title belt was. This was a decent match, although Crews wasn’t getting much of a reaction. Miz hit his signature moves, but Crews elbowed his way out of the Skull Crushing Finale. Maryse distracted Crews, and then Miz grabbed Crews, smirked, and hit him with Dirty Deeds. He then picked Crews up again, and gave him an Attitude Adjustment. Miz then went for the cover, and got the win.
Winner: The Miz

The announcers speculated if that was Miz sending a message to his No Mercy opponent, Dean Ambrose, as well as his ongoing rival, John Cena.

A vignette played again of The Usos. They didn’t have their facepaint on, and said things are getting serious. They said that at No Mercy, they have to win. It’ll be the two best teams on Smackdown going at it, and if they don’t win, they can’t get another title shot against American Alpha as long as they’re champions. Jey said that at No Mercy, it’s do or die.

Becky Lynch vs. Tamina
The announcers reminded everyone that if Tamina gets pinned or submitted, that makes Becky the #1 contender for the Women’s Title. The match was okay, with the crowd rallying behind Becky. Late in the match, Tamina hit a superkick. She went to the top for her top rope splash, but missed, as Becky rolled out of the way. Becky then quickly applied the Dis-armher. As Tamina was about to tap out, Eva attacked Becky to cause a disqualification.
Winner: Becky Lynch (by DQ)

Eva and Tamina looked pleased with themselves, as Becky was pissed off.

After the commercial, Becky went to Daniel Bryan and asked him what he’s going to do about it. Bryan said that technically Becky didn’t make Tamina pin or submit, but what happened wasn’t fair. Bryan said at No Mercy, Becky could get a title match. However, because Becky technically didn't deliver, it would be unfair for it to be one-on-one against Eva, so it would be a handicap match featuring Becky taking on the team of Eva and Tamina. But Bryan assured Becky that the title would change hands if she defeats either Tamina or Eva. Becky looked content with the decision, and assured Bryan that she would become the Women's Champion.

John Cena and AJ Styles were shown talking backstage. Styles asked Cena if he wanted to help him put his old armband on Styles’ head for him. Styles also asked Cena if being the runner-up champion is everything he wanted, and more. Cena just smirked at the insults, and smacked Styles extremely hard on the back (which almost made Styles fall over) and said “see you out there, champ”.

Champions Match, Non-Title. Special Guest Referee, Eva Marie (Women’s Champion): AJ Styles (WWE Champion) & John Cena (Intercontinental Champion) vs. American Alpha (Tag Team Champions)
This was an interesting match to say the least, despite it essentially being interesting filler. The crowd was mostly behind Cena and Styles as a team. Styles hit a DDT, and it felt like Eva counted a little quickly, but Gable kicked out. Gable got mad at Eva, but went back on offense. Alpha teamed up on Styles for a few minutes, and Cena basically tagged himself in. Cena started hitting his usual moves on Jordan, and finished that off with the Five Knuckle Shuffle.

Cena went for an AA, but Gable pulled Jordan off, and Gable (with a little struggle) gave Styles a German suplex. Gable and Styles were fighting for a bit after, while Cena and Jordan were. Cena eventually picked Jordan up, and gave him an AA. He went for the cover, but Eva looked a bit reluctant to count. She eventually counted, but Jordan kicked out just before three. Cena and Eva were arguing a bit, and Gable grabbed Cena, and gave him a German suplex into a pin. Eva counted slowly again, and Cena kicked out before three. Styles then gave Cena a blind tag, as Gable was yelling at Eva. Gable turned around, and Styles landed a Phenomenal Forearm. Styles went for the cover, and Eva gave a fast three count.
Winners: AJ Styles & John Cena

Styles looked all proud of his victory, while Cena seemed somewhat indifferent. Eva raised Styles' arm up, but then right after, Styles turned right into an RKO from Randy Orton. Mauro talked about how this dream match is less than two weeks away. Orton posed with the WWE Title again, as the show went off the air.