WWE 2023 - A much darker place

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mistersocko
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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Dec 24, 2023 0:08:29 GMT 1 Asaemon likes this

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Post by mistersocko on Dec 24, 2023 0:08:29 GMT 1

NEXT WEEK ON RAW

Bobby Lashley vs Omos (US title)

Otis and John Morrison vs RK-Bro (match arranged after Orton agreed to reform the team during the week - if RK-Bro win, they get added to the match at SummerSlam)

SUMMERSLAM CARD (so far)

John Morrison & Otis vs Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens (RAW Tag Title match) (?)

Cody Rhodes vs Bray Wyatt (?)

Asuka vs ???

Rhea Ripley vs Becky Lynch (SD Women's Title match) (?)

The Street Profits vs The Imperium (SD Tag Title match) (?)

mistersocko
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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Jan 7, 2024 22:37:16 GMT 1 Asaemon likes this

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Post by mistersocko on Jan 7, 2024 22:37:16 GMT 1

From Staten Island, NY

AN UNEXPECTED GUEST

The show starts with Adam Pearce making his way to the ring.

Adam Pearce

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen. Don't worry, I won't take up too much of your time. We've got quite a hectic schedule tonight but I wanted to tell you that, after careful consideration, I've decided to set up a number one contender's match for Roman Reigns' Universal title. Next week, Drew McIntyre will face Rey Mysterio for the right to challenge the Tribal Chief at SummerSlam. I think Drew made a compelling case for himself last week and Rey…

The 'meh' reaction from the crowd is cut short when Ludwig Kaiser steps in.

Ludwig Kaiser

Meine Damen und Herren, ich bitte Sie um Ihren Respekt, denn Sie befinden sich in der Gegenwart von Großem. Hier ist ein Mann, der SmackDown seit Monaten dominiert und dem Wrestling seine Ehre zurückgegeben hat. Der Ring General… GUNTHER!

Gunther, Kaiser and Giovani Vinci surround Pearce inside the ring.

Gunther

Herr Pearce, if I may be so bold, I would like you to consider adding my name to that match you just spoke of.

Adam Pearce

Er… yes. Thank you, Gunther, but you see, everything's been arranged and…

Gunther

I understand I'm a foreigner here and things might be done differently here but I must insist.

Adam Pearce

Oh, it's fine and perfectly understandable but you're request coming in a bit late and I thought you'd be wanting a rematch against Edge…

Gunther

He will be dealt with in due time. But for now, I want you to add me to that match.

Adam Pearce

I'm afraid that's not poss…

Before he can finish his sentence, Gunther locks in the iron claw. Pearce is wriggling on the floor but Gunther won't release the hold.

Gunther

Please, I would really like you to reconsider your position.

Adam Pearce

Alright! Alright! You're in!

Gunther gets back to his feet and simply says 'thank you' before walking away with the rest of the Imperium in tow. | 75

INTERCONTINENTAL OBSESSION

Sheamus walks up to Edge and Beth Phoenix, who are chatting backstage.

Edge

Hey, what's up, man? You've come to congratulate me?

Sheamus

Look, you've won that belt from that scumbag Gunther. Good for you but I think you missed an important point: it's mine.

Edge pretends to check the belt.

Edge

I'm sorry… but I don't see your name anywhere on it.

Sheamus

Cute. I want that belt. It's the only title I've never won and I need it.

Edge

Well, good luck.

Sheamus

Stop making fun of me or I'll bash your head in and you'll wish you'd never came out of retirement.

Edge

Wow, easy tiger! You know I don't call the shots, here. Not all of them anyway. You want to face me? I don't think it's a good idea but feel free to impress the powers that be. You have a match against Kingston, don't you?

Sheamus

I'll squash him like a bug. It's all a game to him, he's got nothing to fight for. But once when I'm done with him, you're next.

Edge doesn't look impressed as Sheamus makes his way out. | 68

KOFI KINGSTON vs SHEAMUS

Sheamus makes his way to the ring, as intense and angry as ever, and immediately starts shouting at Kingston, who shrugs, turns around and hits him in the back of the head with an enzuigiri. Sheamus staggers but he regains control with a couple of uppercuts before moving to the second rope for a shoulder tackle. Kingston's quicker though and he lands a superkick followed by an avalanche hip toss. Trying to break Kingston's momentum, Sheamus rolls out of the ring but he gets caught by a diving backsplash plancha. Kingston gets back up and picks up Sheamus for an Irish whip but the Celtic Warrior counters and sends his opponent crashing into the post instead. Before he can react, Kingston finds himself on the receiving end of a powerbomb on the concrete floor. He brings him back into the ring for the cover but only gets a two-count. Already frustrated, he punches him repeatedly and sends him running, only to be greeted by a running forearm smash, followed by a dropkick. Sheamus is going berserk but his right hand is countered for an SOS.

Kingston goes close but Sheamus kicks out at the last second. He ducks a superkick and lands a knee to the gut, followed by a swinging neckbreaker. Sheamus is too eager to close the deal, though. He keeps looking for a way to hit the brogue kick when Kingston's still fresh enough to counter every try. One such attempt is met with a springboard enzuigiri, leaving him helpless on the ground for a boom drop. Sheamus is not responding so Kingston seizes the opportunity and goes for a diving double foot stomp that gets him close again. Sheamus is looking absolutely furious as he kicks out. He just leaps on his opponent and starts pummelling him like a sandbag. Kingston's caught flatfooted and he has no answer when Sheamus unleashes a double Irish curse backbreaker. At this stage, it's quite obvious he doesn't care about the show, he just wants to let out his rage. Another powerbomb almost puts out Kingston – but just almost. Kingston's not done though. He sends Sheamus into the corner and connects with a monkey flip. Sheamus tries to bring him down for another powerbomb, they tussle for a few seconds until one of Kingston's kicks fortuitously lands on Sheamus' chin. He drops down and Kingston delivers a diving crossbody.

Sheamus rolls with it and turns the tables on Kingston but only gets a deep two count. Kingston eats a headbutt right in the mush as he gets up and Sheamus sets him up for a Celtic cross but goes for a crucifix high knee instead, although that's still not enough to put him away. He shouts something about the IC title and gets ready for a brogue kick but Kingston ducks at the last moment and counters with another SOS. Sheamus looks done for but as the referee is about to hit three, his foot finds its way to the ropes. Both competitors feel they're just one big move away from the win. They trade blows in the middle of the ring until Kingston gets some distance for a trouble in paradise but it's Sheamus' turn to counter with a thunderous powerslam. A couple of clothelines later, Kingston is ready for a high cross that sends him crashing headfirst into the post. Sheamus immediately goes for the cover but Kingston's arm is sprawled under the ropes and the referee has to break the count. Sheamus is absolutely furious and when he sees Kingston back on his feet, he rushes in, only to be caught by a pop-up European uppercut. Kingston is having a hard time staying on his feet but he sets himself up for a trouble in paradise but Sheamus is a fraction of second quicker with his brogue kick. Kingston drops to the ground and, this time, Sheamus gets the three count.

Winner by pinfall: Sheamus in 14:47 | 69

TIME'S UP

Next up is a video of the Judgement Day recorded in a poorly-lit place. Karrion Kross breaks from the rest of the group and steps forward, an empty hourglass in his hands.

Karrion Kross

AJ Styles, you didn't listen to our warnings and now, it's too late. Dominik tells me you've been quite busy on social media, calling our group a 'midcard act'. That was a poor use of the time we gave you and now, your friend Anderson is going to pay the price for your foolish pride.

Damian Priest

We've made certain… arrangements and you won't be alone, Karl. Tonight's match has been turned into a tag team match: you and Gallows will be facing me and Karrion Kross.

Dominik Mysterio

We're not heartless. You deserve to have a friend at your side to witness the end of your career. Gallows will be there to hold your hand, heh.

Karrion Kross

Karl Anderson, tomorrow, this might seem unfair to you. It is. Nothing in this life isn't. You should have run when you had the chance. Your friends should have done more to protect you. But when the time for judgement comes, regrets are pointless. You were always a braggart but after tonight, you will only be remembered as a victim. We, the Judgement Day, cast you out.

Scarlett walks up to the camera.

Scarlett

Let me tell you a little secret…

She places the camera lens close to her mouth and whispers something that can't be heard. Soon, only her shining white teeth and her tongue rolling inside her mouth are visible. | 68

IMP ATTACK

Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins are chatting in their locker room when someone knocks on the door. They look at each other, surprised, and Dawkins gets up to answer the door. Giovani Vinci is on the other side and he strikes him on the head with a billy club. Vinci and Ludwig Kaiser step in and begin to beat Ford's brains out. They pick up Dawkins and send him headfirst through a wooden door before giving Ford another thrashing. Once they're done, they go through their belongings, break or throw away everything and finally turn their attention to the tag team belts. Vinci pulls out a paint spray and draws a gothic I. Happy with themselves, they smile at each other and leave the place. | 65

AKIRA TOZAWA vs VEER MAHAN

Michael Cole and Pat McAfee inform us that this match has been requested by Akira Tozawa, who felt 'humiliated' by Drake Maverick's and Veer Mahan's actions last week. As the competitors get ready for action, Maverick grabs a microphone and show off a kazoo. 'Since they think I'm a clown, let me act like one', he says.

Meanwhile, Tozawa is looking for an opening but before he can find one, Mahan sweeps him off his feet with a massive right hook. Without much consideration for his opponent, he hit a million dollar arm and tries to close the deal early but Tozawa kicks out at two. Tozawa evades another punch and makes it to the top turnbuckle for a missile dropkick. Mahan is staggered but he won't go down, though. Tozawa keeps on pressing and he connects with a corkscrew roundhouse kick. This time, Mahan drops to his knees but before Tozawa can take advantage, Maverick hops onto the apron and blows his kazoo right in his ear. He turns around to kick him away but that short distraction is enough for Mahan to regain control with a body toss that sends him crashing against the post. Maverick sneaks in and continues to blow his kazoo straight in Tozawa's face as Mahan slaps in a shoulder claw. The referee is trying to restore some order as Maverick is jumping up and down the ring, which allows Mahan to transition into a cervical clutch. After struggling for a few seconds, Tozawa has no choice but to tap out.

Winner by submission: Veer Mahan in 4:48 | 39

MAVERICK WON'T GO AWAY

Despite the bell, Mahan won't release the hold. Knowing his act will be cut short again, Maverick picks up the mic and starts shouting.

Drake Maverick

What did I tell you? What did I tell you? This guy's the bee's knees! He's the dog's bollocks! And they wanted to throw him away! Who noticed him? Me! Me! I should be head of talent relation! CEO! COO! Matchmaker! At the same time! These guys, the McMahons, they don't know anything about wrestling!

Security is already coming out to escort Mahan and Maverick outside the area.

Drake Maverick

Put your hands off me! They can't shut us out! We're the best! We deserve a chance! Leave us be! Leave us be!

Maverick blows frantically into his kazoo as he's dragged away from the ring. | 50

DIRTY DOM'S DIRTY TRICK

We turn out attention to AJ Styles, who's making his way towards a posh skybox. He's obviously looking for someone but wears a worried look on his face.

AJ Styles

Luke? Karl? Why did you want to meet me here?

Before he can react, the door behind him slams shut and Dominik Mysterio's voice can be heard.

Dominik Mysterio

Erm… sorry AJ but we thought it would be best for you to take a seat and enjoy the rest of the show. Make yourself comfortable, man.

Styles is trying to break down the door, without much success.

AJ Styles

You little… let me out! Now!

Dominik Mysterio

I don't think that would be a very good idea. Why don't you calm down and have a look at what's coming next? I was told these door are built to withstand a terrorist attack. You're not going to kick it open.

AJ Styles

Open that door right now or so help me God…

Dominik Mysterio

Yeah, yeah… I'm quaking in my boots. Look, I'm expected elsewhere. I just wanted to make sure you felt right at home. I think there's a bucket somewhere if you want to throw up. Heh.

Styles keeps on beating on the door but the announcer's voice draws him back to the giant window… | 70

KARL ANDERSON AND LUKE GALLOWS vs DAMIAN PRIEST AND KARRION KROSS

There's a lot of tension in the air as Karrion Kross and Luke Gallows get things started. Cole and McAfee notice that neither Scarlett nor Rhea Ripley are present at ringside, although Dominik joins his stablemate after a few minutes.

Both competitors jockey for position early on but Kross is first in action when he slaps in a knee bar. Gallows is just too powerful to be kept down though. Kross release the hold and hits a sidewalk slam instead. Gallows tries to fight back but Kross sends him down again with a chokeslam, all the while keeping his eyes locked on Anderson. A snap suplex armbar allows him to build up on his strong start but he doesn't seem interested in a pin. Gallows can't get a look in and gets caught by a DDT. Without taking his eyes off Anderson, Kross tags in Priest, who goes for the cover but can't get the pin. He angrily sends Gallows crashing away into his corner with a broken arrow, obviously taunting Anderson to tag in. He hesitates for a fraction of second but finally bolts in, rakes Priest eyes and hits a standing dropkick. Priest goes for the spear but Anderson counters with a buckle bomb. Unfortunately, Priest hits the ropes and the referee has no choice but to ask Anderson to move back.

When the fight resumes, Priest blocks a couple of right hands and hits back with a running back elbow. Anderson gets back up, takes a couple of clothelines followed by a flatliner. Priest picks him up for a razor's edge but Anderson wriggles his way out, pushes him, rushes to his corner… only to realise that Gallows is nowhere to be found. He looks lost for a moment and that's all the time Priest needs to catch him up and deliver his South of heaven for the three count.

It turns out that Gallows is handcuffed to the bottom rope, on another side of the ring. Priest pushes the referee away as Dominik and Kross begin their grim task. First, they bring a barbed-wired ladder into the ring and, while Priest holds Anderson's arms back, they take turn stomping his head against the steel. At ringside, Cole and McAfee ask for help but nothing happens. With Anderson's face now a bloody mess, there's now an eerie silence in the arena. Kross appears to snap his arm but he's no longer responding. Meanwhile, Dominik gestures for a hook to be brought down from the ceiling. Priest ties his feet and when the hook is raised again, Anderson bleeds out on Kross, who stands in the middle of the ring, facing the skybox until the show is interrupted for commercial.

Winners by pinfall: Karrion Kross and Damian Priest in 7:27 | 61

FAMILY MATTERS

Back from the break, Jimmy and Jey Uso are in the parking lot, contemplating their options.

Jey Uso

Hey Uce, don't let your head drop. We're going through a rough patch but we've still got each other.

Jimmy Uso

Uce, he kicked us out. Like we're bums or something. We're family, uce. It has to count for something!

Jey Uso

There ain't nothing we can do about it. We're still the best tag team in the world we gonna prove it again, uce. It's us against the world, like it's always been.

Jimmy Uso

I don't know… it feels different. What we had with Roman and Solo, it was special, see what I mean? At some point, we were on top of the world.

Jey Uso

Maybe we need a change? Roman's right, we grew complacent. We stopped trying at some point and it's come to bite us in the ass.

Jimmy Uso

Roman's changed too. He's like, paranoid now. I think we should talk to him.

Jey Uso

Uce, I'm not sure this'd be any good. He won't change his mind.

Jimmy Uso

But if we could convince him… don't you think it'd be worth a try? It wouldn't be about title defences or matches, it'd be about building a legacy. That's something worth fighting for. Plus, there's someone I think would make a great addition to the Bloodline.

Jey Uso

I don't know, uce… I don't know.

They look at their shoes while we're brought back to ringside for an important announcement. | 67

THE NEW FACE OF WWE

Cole and McAfee tell us that Stephanie McMahon has been summoned to an emergency meeting with FOX management, who are apparently extremely unhappy with the Judgement Day's actions. Switching gears, they present a short clip of Becky Lynch's appearance on the Tonight Show.

Becky Lynch

Right now, I'm letting Rhea Ripley carry my belt but make no mistake, SmackDown is The Man's show. At SummerSlam, I'm taking back what's mine but it goes way beyond Rhea's little head: for all intent and purposes, you are looking at the face of this company. Roman Reigns' a part-timer now while I'm here week in, week out. Just listen to the crowds when The Man's in the place and you will know I'm telling the truth. I've lost my way for a year with pointless feuds. I wasn't being myself but I'll let you in on a little secret: The Man's back and she's going to sure everyone remembers where she got that nickname in the first place. | 67

MIND GAMES

Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler make their way to the ring before the former's match against Raquel Rodriguez under a chorus of boos.

Ronda Rousey

Shut up! I'm not in the mood. So, Shayna, it looks like we 'lost' our match last week.

Shayna Baszler

Didn't look that way to me but that's what the record books show.

Ronda Rousey

Look on the bright side, Shayna. It means we'll to victimise these dumb cows for a couple more weeks.

Shayna Baszler

[yawning] Been there, done that. Multiple times.

Ronda Rousey

I feel you but there's nothing we can do about it. We gave our word, ha ha!

Shayna Baszler

[laughing] Yeah, you're right. Try not to break her this time, will you? She's a fragile little thing, our girl Raquel… | 74

RAQUEL RODRIGUEZ vs RONDA ROUSEY

Their act is interrupted by Rodriguez' music, who's accompanied to the ring by Liv Morgan.

Rousey doesn't seem in a hurry to drop the mic, though, but Rodriguez doesn't wait for the bell. She kicks her in the gut and delivers a massive fireman's carry swinging sidewalk slam. She goes for the cover but Rousey kicks out at two. She eats another couple of right hands for good measure but she manages to turn the tables on her opponent when she slaps in a sleeper hold. It's way too early for that though and Rodriguez sends her crashing against the post before tossing her across the ring with a fallaway slam. Rousey seems extremely pissed off and she strikes back with a series of punches ending with a ko-soto gake. She locks in a guillotine choke as Rodriguez is making it back to her feet, weighing down her neck as much as she can. But, once again, Rodriguez shifts her weight and brings her back on her shoulder for a Canadian backbreaker rack. Still working on Rousey's back, she moves to the ropes and transitions into a hanging Boston crab. Rousey's screaming in pain but she manages to grab the ropes, forcing a break. Rodriguez takes a few steps back… and delivers a devastating big boot right in Rousey's much. Rousey rebounds against the post and crashes right in the middle of the ring.

Rodriguez goes for the pin but Rousey kicks out at the last second. She's busted open though and Rodriguez is now directing most of the traffic towards her forehead. Rousey takes a couple of shots but she finally blocks right hand and delivers a piper's pit out of nowhere. Unfortunately for her, she's in no condition to cover her opponent. Both women are playing for keeps but Rodriguez is first on her feet and she feels confident enough to hit her with her Tejana bomb. The impact is such that Rousey almost goes through the mat. Baszler senses the danger and hops onto the apron in order to win her friend a few seconds. Rodriguez sends her crashing with a big boot but that's enough for Rousey to kick out of her cover attempt. She's sent into the ropes with an Irish whip but hits back with a shining wizard. Rodriguez kicks out of her weak pin and regains control with a snapmare and big boot combination. Rousey is staggering but she fights on. She can't prevent Rodriguez from connecting with a Western lariat though and with the amount of blood she's lost, it could be over this time.
Rodriguez goes for the cover but, this time, Baszler grabs her foot and puts it on the rope. Morgan's getting tired of her antics though and they start brawling at ringside. Meanwhile, Rodriguez's getting frustrated and the referee has to push her way, giving Rousey the time she needs to set up a tornado flatliner. Her head hits the mat awkwardly and Rousey is quick enough to slap in her armbar, forcing Rodriguez to tap out.

Despite the referee's efforts, Rousey won't release the hold and it looks like, by the time a bunch of people make it to the ring, Rodriguez's arm is broken – again.

Winner by submission: Ronda Rousey in 12:26 | 66

DARK OMENS

Dominik Mysterio and Rhea Ripley are standing backstage with Kayla Braxton.

Kayla Braxton

Dominik, Rhea… I don't even know where to start. What we've witnessed tonight…

Dominik Mysterio

… was foretold. Karl Anderson knew what to expect when he stepped into that ring, or he should have. He thought we wouldn't but our money where our mouths were and look where that got him. I've met people like him while I was doing some hard time. It never ends well.

Kayla Braxton

Regardless…

Rhea Ripley

Kayla, why don't you shut up while Dom is speaking?

Dominik Mysterio

Thank you, Mami. Now, let me tell you something else that will happen, no matter what. I'm talking about my feud with my deadbeat dad, Rey Mysterio. There's only one way this ends and that's with me ripping off his mask in front of everybody. That's the natural order of things. Only then, I will be free of all the weights he's put on me throughout my childhood. Only then will I be a man.

Kayla Braxton

You'd do that to your own father, isn't it… [she stops midsentence when she sees the look on Ripley's face]

Dominik Mysterio

I'm not an idiot. I know people laugh at me behind my back. We'll see who's laughing when I'll leave their hero in a heap in the middle of the ring. Losing that mask will make him feel the way I've felt for all these years. He will go through the rest of his miserable life the way I did until I met Mami. You all want to laugh at me? Be my guests! After tonight though, you should know that there's nothing I wouldn't do, no line I wouldn't cross to get where I want to be. And where I want to be is standing in the middle of the ring with Rey Mysterio's mask in my hand. I want to shame him and I want to ruin his life just like he ruined mine. Believe me when I say it will happen.

They walk out, leaving Braxton with a worried look on her face. | 74

A DIFFERENT KIND OF CHALLENGE

Next, Logan Paul makes his way to the ring.

Logan Paul

Unlike someone I don't need to name here, I won't bore the pants off you all with a little sob story. No, no, no. You see, Logan Paul's an entertainer. He's a fighter and, more importantly, he's a winner. So, instead of crying like a whiny Scottish bitch, I actually get things done. Beating Drew McIntyre? Check. So, now's a good time to talk about Roman Reigns. See how it's done, Drew? Don't worry if you don't. We can't all be naturals, can we? Now, let's forget that muppet and turn out attention to that match at Crown Jewell. I was this close to beating Roman Reigns and I think it's fair to say I've improved tremendously and yet I haven't been included in that triple thr…

He's interrupted by Drew McIntyre's music.

Drew McIntyre

Hey Paulie! Fancy meeting you there, beating your own drum in the middle of the ring. Thought you'd have a word of appreciation for your brother though.

Logan Paul

What a surprise, you're a sore loser! Look buddy, the best man win last week. Nobody cares about the fine prints. It's the 21st century man. We want fast-paced action, not people moaning because someone in the crowd couldn't resist punching their ugly mug.

Drew McIntyre

Your brother sucks as an actor but he packs a meaner punch than you do, by the way.

Logan Paul

Shut up! You don't get to make comparisons, loser!

Drew McIntyre

Speaking of losing…

Logan Paul

Oh, no! I see where this is going. I have no intention to grant you a rematch. You had your chance and you blew it, Drew. You're a choker, get used to it.

Drew McIntyre

Ha! Don't worry, I wasn't thinking about me. We'll get back to it later. No, I happen to have a friend who's looking for a match and I thought you'd be kind enough to show him your many talents.

Elias' music hits and Paul doesn't look too happy about it. | 80

ELIAS vs LOGAN PAUL

Elias makes his way to the ring with a resolute look on his face but he's greeted by Paul's boot before the bell even rang. Paul keeps the pressure on with a back body drop followed by a lionsault for the first pin attempt of the match. He then takes his eyes off the prize to exchange a few chosen words with McIntyre at ringside, giving Elias the time he needs to hit back with a shotgun dropkick. Paul is sent flying through the ring and his bravado quickly turns into something darker. He rushes to his opponent only to get caught by a butterfly facebreaker. An electric chair, facebuster against the top turnbuckle and clotheline combo almost puts him away but Paul kicks out at the last second. Elias tries to keep the upper hand but Paul evades a couple of shots and turns the tables with a double leg sweep. In a show of agility, he gets to the top rope and connects with a diving crossbody, which he transitions into a standing moonsault. He sets himself up for his one lucky punch but Elias blocks and counters with a heabdutt. With Paul lying in the middle of the ring, he delivers a diving elbow drop and goes for the cover.

Paul somehow kicks out at the last second but he's hanging on for dear life at this stage. He rolls out of the ring but, instead of taking a time out, he gets to a vertical base on the apron and lands a buckshot lariat on an unsuspecting Elias. He delivers a series of strikes next but one of them misses wildly, allowing Elias to hit back with a sit-out chokeslam. A folding powerbomb gets him close again but still no cigar. Paul gets on the receiving end of an overhead belly to belly suplex, as Elias is visibly getting frustrated. Paul steps away as Elias was charging him into the corner and takes that opportunity to land a gutwrench suplex. He follows it up with a running frog splash but Elias kicks out easily. Both competitors are now trading moves in the middle of the ring. Elias hits a snap swinging neckbreaker yet Paul hits back seconds later with a grab toe hold and a stomp. Despite the pain and weariness, he still finds the resources to show off and try a split-legged leg drop for the cover but Elias kicks out again.

A frog splash can't get the job done either so Paul is getting ready for his one lucky punch again when Roman Reigns' music hits. Everybody's looking at the ramp and McIntyre takes that opportunity to sneak into the ring and deliver a claymore to Paul. He helps Elias get on top of him and by the time the referee turns back, McIntyre is gone and the match is over.

Winner by pinfall: Elias in 10:39 | 65

TWO FOTC, ONE TITLE

Rhea Ripley is standing backstage with Dominik Mysterio.

Rhea Ripley

I've never had much time for you Becky but I never thought you were an idiot. Looks like I was wrong. I've watched that interview. Face of the company? You?! You're not even a contender for mom of the month! Apparently, you missed the part where I literally took that belt from Charlotte's body while she was staring at the lights. And I defended it time and time again, against all comers. Where do you think you fit into all that? You were busy feuding with a bunch of also-rans like Bianca Belair and Alexa Bliss. Good for you. Now, since we're talking about faces, have you looked at yourself in a mirror, recently? You look like a crack addict. If I were Seth, I'd be pinning posters in our bedroom [Ripley and Mysterio giggle like teenagers]. And now, look at me. If you think we have anything in common… I don't know what you're smoking, but it must be good. I'm at the peak of my career. You've got absolutely nothing on me, Becky. Nothing! You think you're tough because you assaulted my Dom last week? Do yourself a favour and spend more time with your kid or try to talk some fashion sense into your husband but don't you ever speak my name ever again. Think about your baby girl for a moment. Do you want her to grow up with a crippled mom? If the answer is no, you'd better make sure our paths never cross or I'll make sure you'll wish you'd been in Karl Anderson's place. | 70

GOLDBERG'S LAST STAND

Meanwhile, Bill Goldberg made his way to the ring.

Bill Goldberg

Last week, I stood in this very ring and I had a few things to get off my chest. Since then, I have received a ton of hear-warming letters and emails from all sorts of people. First of all, I wanted to tell all of you how grateful I am for your support. But you have to understand that I'm not getting any younger. At my age, I have to ask myself whether I really want to appear in front of so many people in a bathing suit. It's not easy because no matter how hard you try, your body's not responding in the same way it used to. It's a fact of life. I've spent a lot of time this week looking inside myself and there was a question I couldn't shake off: do I really want my career to end like this? Do I want to record books to state that Goldberg retired after a loss against Drew McIntyre at a B-rate pay per view? The answer is no. That's no way for me to take my bow. I've come here this week, to make an announcement. John Cena… you're next! And if you can beat me, you will also be last. However, you know better than anyone that every honour in this industry has to be earned. There's no handouts here. If you want to add my scalp to your resume, you will have to put something on the line too. Here's what I propose: if I win, you will never challenge for the world title ever again. You will forever remain tied with Ric Flair. I'll be waiting for your answer, John. | 72

BUTCH vs ROMAN REIGNS

Paul Heyman stops by the commentators' table as the bell rings to let us know that Roman Reigns himself requested this match and that the Universal title is on the line. Solo Sikoa is standing at ringside, as is Ridge Holland.
Reigns is acting like a bully – as usual – and can be heard calling Butch 'rat boy' a couple of times. Butch stands his ground and keeps getting into the champion's face. Wearing an arrogant grin, Reigns slaps him a couple of times and pushes him into the ropes. Butch suddenly decides he's had enough though. He headbutts Reigns, sends him crashing down with a dropkick and finishes the sequence with a quick piledriver. He rushes it though and Reigns is spared the brunt of the impact. He kicks out of the pin attempt and counters Butch's next salvo with a devastating spinebuster. Reigns enjoys a slower pace and he takes his time scraping Butch's face against the ropes. Butch manages to break free and lands a couple of elbows on the side of Reigns' head. Reigns' reeling and Butch follows up with a kick to the gut and a buckle bomb but, again, he doesn't get anywhere near putting him away. Butch tries to keep his momentum going with a kick to the gut but Reigns sidesteps him and hits back with a Superman punch.

Butch is staggering and Reigns sends him outside the ring with a strong clotheline. Butch falls right at Sikoa's feet, prompting Holland to come closer to back him up. Reigns begins chatting with the referee and Sikoa takes that opportunity to land a superkick on Butch. He throws him back into the ring but Holland is already upon him and both men start brawling at ringside. Meanwhile, Butch kicks out at two. Reigns sends him running with an Irish whip but he ducks the next challenge and delivers a snap German suplex for another quick count. Reigns goes for an uppercut as soon as he gets back on his feet but Butch counters with a backslide. However, Reigns gets back on his feet and connects with a spike DDT. Butch's stunned but he manages to slap in a triangle choke. Reigns tries to pin him while still in the hold but he's hanging out for dear life. Reigns' not doing too well but he manages to get his foot on the rope after a few seconds. Instead of using the referee's count, Butch jumps onto the top turnbuckle and hits a diving double stomp. With Reigns helpless on the floor, he sits on top of him and starts his patented joint manipulation.

On raw strength alone, Reigns manages to get back to a vertical base, with Butch still clinging to him. He then lands a schoolboy powerbomb, before crashing to the ground himself. Butch is first on his feet though and, not to be undone, he lands a fireman's double knee gutbuster. He's about to go for the cover when Sikoa, having come out on top of Holland, hops onto the ring. Butch tries to chase him away, giving Reigns all the time he needs to regroup. He lands a couple of strikes and sets up a running powerbomb before literally throwing Butch above the third rope. Reigns is immediately getting into the referee's face, allowing Sikoa to keep on beating a helpless Butch. Reigns is now roaring 'Acknowledge me' in the middle of the ring. Meanwhile, Butch tries to mount a comeback but he caught by a snap Samoan drop as soon as he makes it to the ring. Butch is like a ragdoll between Reigns' arms and he lands a couple of T-bone suplexes before going close again with another near-fall. Reigns knows this can only go one way now. He sets himself up for the spear… and almost tear Butch in two when he connects.

The cover is a mere formality by then but somehow, Butch kicks out at the very last second. Reigns, Sikoa and Heyman can't believe their eyes. Butch rolls out of the ring in search of some separation but a frustrated Reigns is hot on his heels. Reigns is looking for another spear but Butch sidesteps him and he ends up crashing into the steel steps. Trying to keep his balance, Butch comes closer and delivers two tombstones in a row on the concrete. He drags Reigns' massive frame back inside the ring and locks in a katahajime but Reigns won't tap. Butch realises this is going nowhere. He locks in a front face lock and transitions into a pedigree. He's about to finish the job when Sikoa slides in. The referee rushes in to prevent an interference but so does Butch and they end up running into each other. With the ring clear, Sikoa moves in for the kill but Holland is back. He sends Sikoa crashing with a powerful lariat and he's about to hit a Nothern grit for good measure but Sikoa counters with a Samoan drop. He gingerly gets back to his feet, hits the Samoan spike on Butch and rolls out of the ring. Meanwhile, Heyman manages to bring the ref back to his senses and Reigns closes the deal after a chaotic finish.

As the show goes off the air, Reigns is leaning on the ropes and shouting at the crowd. 'Nobody can beat me. I'm on a different level. This is my show. This is my belt for as long as I decide.'

Winner by pinfall: Roman Reigns in 20:12 | 81

mistersocko
Developmental Draw

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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Jan 8, 2024 14:48:06 GMT 1 Asaemon, MoonchildRoddy, and 1 more like this

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Post by mistersocko on Jan 8, 2024 14:48:06 GMT 1

NEXT WEEK ON SMACKDOWN

Drew McIntyre vs Rey Mysterio vs Gunther (number 1 contender's match for the WWE Universal title)

John Cena will be live to respond to Goldberg's challenge

SUMMERSLAM CARD (so far)

John Morrison & Otis vs Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens (RAW Tag Title match) (confirmed)

Cody Rhodes vs Bray Wyatt (?)

Asuka vs ???

Rhea Ripley vs Becky Lynch (SD Women's Title match) (?)

The Street Profits vs The Imperium (SD Tag Title match) (?)

Roman Reigns vs ???

Bill Goldberg vs John Cena (?)

mistersocko
Developmental Draw

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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Jan 25, 2024 12:22:11 GMT 1 Asaemon likes this

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Post by mistersocko on Jan 25, 2024 12:22:11 GMT 1

From Los Angeles, CA

BIANCA BELAIR vs BAYLEY vs CHARLOTTE FLAIR

Mauro Ranallo and Wade Barrett welcome us to the show, which opens this week with the triple threat match for the number one contender's spot for Asuka's RAW Women's title. Asuka is at ringside to scout her future opponent.
The match starts with all three women exchanging a few chosen words before a wild brawl breaks up in the middle of the ring. Charlotte comes out on top of that first sequence, prompting Bayley and Belair to team with a double clotheline to throw her out of the ring. Belair then takes Bayley out with a headbutt and goes for the second rope but Bayley was playing possum: she rushes back to her feet and delivers an avalanche reverse DDT on a helpless Belair. It only makes her angrier though and as soon as she back to a vertical base, she smashes Bayley's head against the turnbuckle, repeatedly. With Bayley stunned, Belair hits a standing shooting star press for the first count of the match. As is now par for the course for her, Belair complains to the referee about a slow count and doesn't see Charlotte sneaking back in. After a double axe handle to the back of the head, Charlotte slaps in a bridging step-over toe hold. The holds looks painful but leaves her exposed: Bayley kicks her in the head and resumes working on Belair's lower limbs with an inverted Boston crab. Charlotte wants to hit back with a roundhouse kick but Bayley ducks and connects with her belly to Bayley.

Meanwhile, Belair rolls out of the ring to regroup and Bayley jumps onto Charlotte for the win but she kicks out at two and a half. Bayley's absolutely livid and, for a moment, she looks short on ideas. Charlotte takes advantage of her hesitation and lands a couple of right hands. She presses her into the corner and sets up a rope hung knee-drop that literally crushes Bayley's left knee. She goes for the cover but Belair pulls her outside and sends her crashing head first into the ring post. Belair then tries a delayed vertical suplex but her right leg's shot and, instead, she drops Charlotte clumsily on the concrete floor. She hobbles back into the ring, where Bayley's trying to get some feeling back into her left leg. She rushes forward for a clotheline but Belair counters with a kick to the gut, followed by an alley oop, despite her bad leg. They both crash loudly on the mat, although Bayley obviously got the worst of it. She still lunges in again but this time, she gets caught by a spinebuster for a near-fall. Ignoring Asuka's screams, Belair picks up Bayley's carcass and delivers a massive KOD, right in the middle of the ring.

She drops onto her opponent but, just as the referee is about to hit three, Charlotte saves the match up. This time, Belair goes absolutely ballistic. She beats Charlotte senseless and, when the referee tries to pull her back, she goes so far as to shove him away. Still on a rampage, she drags Charlotte to the top rope for a seated superplex before hitting a top con hilo on Asuka for good measure. There's nobody around to make a count so she delivers a couple of right hands on Bayley before dragging her onto the commentators' table. She then picks up a steel chair, sets it up in the middle of the ring and shouts 'that's why I'm the EST' before hitting an acrobatic Arabian facebuster a la Sabu on the unfortunate Bayley. For a few seconds, it's absolute chaos with bodies everywhere in and around the ring. Belair emerges from the fracas and painfully pulls Bayley back inside the ring but when she follows, she's greeted by Charlotte's boot who connects with a rope-hung beckbreaker. Charlotte covers Bayley but Belair breaks the count at the last second.

Charlotte and Belair face each other in the middle of the ring. The former goes for a spear but Belair counters into another alley oop. However, her leg gives out and she can't execute the move properly. Charlotte grabs the ropes to break her fall, turns around and spears Belair as soon as she's up again. She then turns her attention to Bayley and locks in the figure eight. Bayley's unresponsive though and the referee has no choice but to grant Charlotte the victory.

Winner by submission: Charlotte in 16:22 | 68

SECOND THOUGHTS

Next up is Cody Rhodes, who wears a concerned look on his face as he makes his way to the ring.

Cody Rhodes

So… Los Angeles, what do you wanna talk about? I know what I want to talk about, I want to tell you a story about my father – the American Dream. As you probably already know, he didn't have the career he deserved. The dirtsheets being what they are, a lot of you probably also know that in addition to his many fights inside the so-called squared circle, he also had to wrestle more personal demons. So had my brother. I don't think anyone is in a position to judge them. I've heard the word 'weakness' when I was younger. I can tell you they are anything but weak. They are two of the bravest soul you could ever hope to meet in this life. But brave doesn't mean invincible. No matter who you are, sometimes, you need someone to extend their hand in friendship or to turn a blind eye on something you might have done or said when you weren't yourself. And this leads me to… Bray Wyatt. I know I've said some strong things about Bray this past couple of weeks but now that the heat of the moment is gone… I'm not so sure he deserved it. Last week, as I talked to him backstage, I looked straight into his face and I saw…

He's interrupted by Austin Theory's music who comes out with Trish Stratus wrapped around his arm.

Austin Theory

No, no, no, no! I can't take this any longer. I swear, if I hear one more word of your little sob story, I'm going to puke. You think that's why these people paid their hard-earned money for? To hear you ramble forever about your family and your 'story'? Give me a break! It might have been hot at some point but that was over a year ago.

Cody Rhodes

And this concerns you because...?

Austin Theory

[stepping into the ring] Because I'm young, I'm hungry and I'm the best talent to grace this company since Brock Lesnar.

Cody Rhodes

Is that all? Man, I don't what you've been smoking but I definitely want some.

Austin Theory

Yeah, very funny. Me and this beautiful lady over there are running on the best drug of them all. It's called Austin Theory.

Cody Rhodes

Good for you. Mind if I finish what I was saying now that you've told us how much you love yourself?

Theory gets right into Rhodes' face.

Austin Theory

There's something I like even more and that's pure, uncensored violence. That's right, old man. That's why I'm different from the rest. Now that they've taken my US Championship away from me, I'm willing to put everything on the line. Just ask that old far John Morrison. What have you got to say about that, uh?

Rhodes can't help but laugh out loud.

Cody Rhodes

You mean, you're throwing a tantrum because you lost a belt?? Easy, tiger! You know, it happens to the best of us. No need to go in hardcore mode because you lost a title match. Although it does seem to impress the… ladies, I guess [he's looking at Stratus].

Austin Theory

Don't go there, Cody, or you'll end up crying in front of everyone for a different reason, this week. Since you're such a smart ass, why don't you go one on one with me next week on RAW? I can't think of anyone I'd rather shut up.

Cody Rhodes

I was about to say the same thing.

They try to stare each other down for a few seconds, until Theory breaks into a disrespectful smile and walks away with Stratus, leaving Rhodes alone in the ring. | 70

TEGAN NOX vs ZOEY STARK

Tegan Nox makes her way to the ring first but while she's warming up, Zoey Stark sneaks up behind her and lands a springboard dropkick before the match is even started. The bell is rung hurriedly and, understandably, Nox isn't too happy about it she doesn't get an explanation: before she's up on her feet, she gets caught by a vicious spinning heel kick. A springboard corkscrew senton gives Stark the first near-fall of the match but Nox isn't ready to stay down. Her stubbornness only gets her a shining wizard to the face though but, once again, Stark can't get the three count. Nox finally get some separation when she evades a superkick and connects with a one-legged dropkick that sends Stark reeling into the corner. Seething, Stark resumes her momentum with a series of hard-hitting uppercuts and kicks. Nox is almost knocked out which allows Stark to hit a rolling fireman's carry slam. Nox kicks out of yet another near-fall and Stark, frustrated, exposes the second turnbuckle, despite the referee's protests.

She picks up her opponent and smashes her head against the cold steel, busting her open. However, much to her surprise, Nox lands a luck elbow to the side of her head. Still dizzy, she sends her crashing into the exposed corner and goes for a reverse cannonball. Unfortunately for her, Stark ducks out of the way and delivers her K-360 for a quick three count.

Winner by pinfall: Zoey Stark in 5:55 | 42

STARK ISN'T DONE

Before leaving the ring, Stark grabs the microphone.

Zoey Stark

Emma, they say there ain't such a thing as dumb luck; I say your win last week was as dumb as they come. You didn't even beat me on purpose! It was a stupid accident! I beat myself. So, listen to me, you're going to give me a rematch or I will turn your life into a nightmare. You made of fool of me with your stupid antics. It's time for your comeuppance. Face me next week, or else.

She drops the microphone and walks away. | 49

CODY TAKES SIDES

Meanwhile, things are heating up backstage, where Shane McMahon and Bronson Reed are having a go at Bron Breakker, Shotzi and Jerry Lawler.

Shane McMahon

If it isn't little Miss coward and her boyfriend, Mister braindead…

Jerry Lawler

Hey, does that mean you don't have a nickname for me too?

Shane McMahon

No. Out of respect for my father, who put food on your family's table for so long, I'm trying to… ignore your association with this unsavoury character but don't push your luck too far, Mister Lawler.

Bron Breakker

Hey, you leave him and my girlfriend alone. You got a problem with me? You deal with me. Ever since King of the Ring, you've been looking for a fight. Don't tell me you're one of these old and bitter ex-wrestlers who can't accept that their time has passed.

Shane McMahon

No. I'm a son who honours his father, Mister 'Breakker'.

This one does not sit well with Breakker, who looks absolutely furious. A fight is about to break when Cody Rhodes steps in.

Cody Rhodes

Gentlemen, what seems to be the problem here? I heard your shouts all the way from the locker room area. There has to be a way to settle things amicably.

Bronson Reed

Why don't you crawl back to wherever you came from to cry in front of a portrait of your father and let the tough men have a chat?

Rhodes is livid.

Cody Rhodes

I beg your pardon?

Bronson Reed

You heard me the first time.

Bron Breakker

Let's settle that in the ring. Me and Cody versus you and whoever is dumb enough to stand by you.

Shane McMahon

Oh, don't worry, Mister Breakker, there are plenty of ass-kissers around.

McMahon and Reed are laughing as they walk away, while Rhodes and Breakker are staring holes in their back. | 68

OMOS vs BOBBY LASHLEY

The match was signed right after last week's RAW: Bobby Lashley has to defend his United States Championship against Omos, with MVP at ringside.

Omos first try to goad Lashley into coming closer, using his superior reach to thwart his half-hearted attempts. Lashley finally gets some joy when he blocks Omos' big foot and lands a spinning back elbow right in his solar plexus. With his opponent off-balance, he shows off his own strength with a spectacular release overhook suplex. Instead of going for the cover, he points at MVP and starts pounding at Omos' head. Omos pushes him away but he doesn't get much space: using the ropes for momentum, Lashley hits back with a flatliner and covers him but only gets a two count. Lashley tries to push on but Omos is just too powerful and a headbutt sends the champion crashing on the ground. Lashley retreats as Omos stomps furiously at him. Knowing a count-out victory wouldn't bring him the title, the Nigerian Giant follows him but Lashley evades a couple of mean-looking rights and kicks him in the back of the knee, giving him the perfect opening to lock in a dragon sleeper.

Omos is in a precarious position: the referee continues his count and, with his back bent backwards, he can't find any leverage to break the hold. Fortunately for him, MVP gets – literally – in Lashley's face until he finally loses it and releases Omos to drop him with an uppercut. Omos takes the opportunity to slide back in the ring and, when Lashley follows, he gets caught by a devastating KO punch that almost puts him out for good. He survives another onslaught from Omos and even manages to send him headfirst into the turnbuckle with a grab toe hold. Furious, Omos lunges in but Lashley is nothing if not experienced. In another impressive show of strength, he cuts the distance between them and sends him crashing onto the mat with a fireman's carry press. Obviously pleased with himself, the Almighty strikes a pose in the middle of the ring while trash-talking his opponent. Like a shark feeling blood in the water, he circles around Omos as he tries to get up and as soon as he does, Lashley connects with a powerful spear.

He goes for the cover and is already celebrating when Omos kicks out furiously at two and a half. He grabs Lashley's skull with both hands and starts pressing as hard as he can as he gets back up. Lashley tries to pull his opponent into the ropes but Omos stands his ground. Despite the pain, Lashley has the wherewithal to change his momentum and he pushes Omos into the post where, for a second, he loses his grip. Lashley immediately retreats to the opposite corner and starts climbing the ropes, with Omos close behind him. Out of desperation, he launches himself for a diving spear. He connects but lands awkwardly and, for a long time, both men lay in the middle of the ring, with MVP doing his best to revive Omos. They get up almost at the same time but when Lashley rushes in to finish the job, he runs right into a big boot. With the champion momentarily stunned, Omos takes his chance: he goes for a chokeslam but Lashley reacts a second quicker. He kicks him in the gut and is about to hit the dominator when Prince Puma comes out of nowhere and sends everybody down with a shooting star plancha. The referee has no choice but to call the match off.

MVP is furious at ringside. Meanwhile, Puma grabs the belt, kisses it and runs away.

Winner by disqualification: Bobby Lashley in 14:50 | 57

PUMA'S PAYBACK

Seconds later, Cathy Kelley is interviewing Konnan and Prince Puma.

Cathy Kelly

Please welcome my guests at this time, Konnan and Prince Puma. Konnan, why did Prince Puma stopped what was a very interesting match-up between Omos and Bobby Lashley?

Konnan

Cathy, let's get this straight. The WWE, like every other wrestling company, is a jungle. You don't ask for respect from your opponents but, contrary to popular belief, you don't earn it either. You have to impose your will on them, make them respect you whether they want to or not. Not so long ago, Omos almost destroyed Puma's career. If you want to make sure the other animals respect you, you have to punish those who seek to harm you. Tonight, that's what we did. No US title for you, amigo.

Cathy Kelley

Does that mean Prince Puma will be challenging Omos at SummerSlam?

Konnan

No because my Prince needs a crown now. I made a deal when I brought him back from the land of the shadows. Maybe I'll tell you more about it, some day. But for now, all you have to know is that Prince Puma will be facing Bobby Lashley at SummerSlam for the US title – a title I've held myself, a long time ago.

Cathy Kelley

Is that official?

Konnan

Yes, it is. And, Omos, if you're thinking about getting one back over my Puma at SummerSlam, think again. As soon as the title is won, our paths will cross again. If you're so certain you can beat the Prince whenever you want, why don't you put your money where your mouth is?

Cathy Kelly

It looks like you've got everything covered.

Konnan

The Puma is a strong a patient god, Cathy. | 61

NO MORE GAMES

Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa look all business as they make their way to the ring next.

Tommaso Ciampa

Angel Garza, there ain’t two ways around it. You’re a piece of trash. Apparently, you want to have your ass handed to you since you keep taunting my boy Johnny with your disgusting comments about the mother of his child. I don’t know what’s going on inside that little head of yours, but if you’re desperate for a beating, we’d be happy to oblige.

Gargano angrily takes the microphone off his hands.

Johnny Gargano

You’ve pushed me too far, Garza. For some reason, you keep coming back with that. I had no beef with you but now, things are different. You fancy yourself a ladies’ man? If you’re even half a man, you’ll get a hold of your retard of a cousin and bring your ass to this ring to take the beating you so richly deserve. You want to talk about my wife, pal. Come out, I’m in a mood to let my fingers do the talking.

Los Lotharios’ music quickly hits and Angel comes out, a rose between his teeth and a smile on his face, accompanied by Humberto. | 62

DIY vs LOS LOTHARIOS

Angel and Humberto run straight for the ring, where they start slugging it out with their opponents. The referee has a rough time maintaining a semblance of order but, after a minute or so, he convinces Angel and Ciampa to step outside.

Meanwhile, Gargano lands a couple of right hands straight in Humberto’s face until he gets caught in a front headlock, which Humberto transitions into a nasty-looking jackhammer. He immediately goes for the cover but Gargano kicks out. Humberto then misses wildly with a punch, leaving himself exposed to a gourdbuster. He quickly gets back to his feet but Gargano was lying in wait with a slingshot spear that almost cuts him in half. Gargano tags himself out and Ciampa makes his presence felt with a powerful lariat. Humberto is fighting shadows at this stage and Ciampa takes advantage by setting up his willows bell. He might have put an early end to the match there, if Angel hadn’t broken the count. Ciampa is understandably unhappy but when Angel simply spits in his face, he sees red and chases his retreating opponent. Angel goes to the ropes and drops him outside with a back body drop, though. Gargano rushes in to help his partner but he loses his balance when Humberto grabs his boot, allowing Angel to catch him with a lifting double underhook backbreaker.

Los Lotharios are in full control now. Humberto tags out and Angel continues his theatrics as Gargano gets back on his feet and lunges at him again, only to find himself on the receiving end of a pop-up kick. The distraction allows Ciampa to come back in. He delivers a guillotine to Angel and follows it up with an over the shoulder back to belly piledriver on the apron. Ciampa goes to the ropes as Humberto steps in but his clotheline attempt is met with a swift Spanish fly. Angel and Humberto begin to stomp him mercifully but Gargano’s back and he sends Humberto outside with a vicious clotheline. He follows suit when Angel dropkicks him from behind. Angel turns around and sees that Ciampa is back to a vertical base and something in his eyes tells him he wants nothing to do with him. Angel drops out and begins to run away but Ciampa sends him against the barricade with a shoulder tackle. With a sadistic smile, he takes a few steps back and sends him through with a devastating running knee strike.

The referee is counting Ciampa and Angel, when Dexter Lumis and Dolph Ziggler come out and attack both teams. Amidst the chaos, the match is abandoned.

Draw in 9:52 | 58

SKY OUT FOR SEVERAL WEEKS

While the officials try to restore some order at ringside, we go over to Cathy Kelly, who has an update on Iyo Sky’s situation.

Cathy Kelly

After Bayley’s vicious attack last week [some footage is shown], we have been informed that Iyo Sky will be missing several weeks of action. She’s suffering from a serious concussion and, apparently, her arm was broken during the incident. Rumour has it that she will be flying back to Japan soon for her rehabilitation. Of course, this raises a few questions about her Money in the Bank situation. She’s just won the briefcase less than a month ago but some people online are calling for another match to be set up, in the event where she wouldn’t be able to cash it before the deadline. We will keep you posted, of course, but so far, Iyo Sky has been unavailable to comment on her current situation. | 65

SOMETHING TO PROVE

Backstage, Braun Strowman is pacing like a caged animal when Angelina Love and Dijak come up to him.

Angelina Love

Hello, Braun. I see your fortunes are already improving after a little chat, last week. Looks like we bring you good luck!

Braun Strowman

Urgh. What do you want with me this time.

Angelina Love

Oh, I just wanted you to meet my client, Dijak. You remember? I told you about him last week.

Strowman looks unimpressed.

Dijak

Actually, we’ve met a few times, you may remember…

Braun Strowman

No, I don’t. Listen to me. You think you’re a big man but, to me, you are nothing. Right now, the only thing on my mind is what I’m going to do to Jeff Hardy in a couple of minutes. If you’re smart and you know what’s good for you, you will stay away from me. Do not interfere in my match. Am I making myself clear? You have nothing that could impress me. I don’t need help from a twerp like you.

Strowman’s music hits in the background and he leaves without a look back while Dijak and Love exchange puzzled glances. | 54

JEFF HARDY vs BRAUN STROWMAN

Strowman is making a beeline to the ring, where Jeff Hardy is waiting for him, sitting on a chair. Strowman immediately tries to knock him down with a right hand but Hardy evades the first shots and even gets some distance thanks to a couple of low kicks. This allows him to set up a poetry in motion that sends Strowman reeling into the corner. Strowman sends him crashing into the opposite corner with an Irish whip, but Hardy counters the incoming splash with a corner headscissors. A slingshot Arabian press even gives him the first pin attempt of the match, albeit a short one. Strowman ignores a couple of kicks and takes back the upper hand with a headbutt until he gets caught by a twist of fate out of nowhere for another near-fall. Hardy wants to keep his momentum going and he slaps in an Armageddon but Strowman’s just too powerful: he gets back to his feet and tosses him away with a released German suplex. He’s looking to capitalise as he lunges forward but Hardy trips him with a grab toe hold and Strowman crashed head first into the post. Hardy sees the opening and delivers a massive 450 splash.

Hardy still can’t get the win and goes to the well one more time but Strowman’s quicker than he looks and he connects with a double dropkick just as Hardy was getting to the top turnbuckle. Strowman picks him up and sends him crashing on the outside with a Biel toss. Seconds later, he almost decapitates Hardy when he connects with a running clotheline. Things are looking bleak for Hardy as Strowman sends him back inside the ring and sets him up for a reverse chokeslam. Hardy fights back though and lands in a couple of lucky elbows. A vicious kick to the back of the knee sends Strowman down and Hardy takes this opportunity for an ankle lock submission but Strowman’s just too strong. He runs away for a corner dropkick next but Strowman turns around and catches him with a chokeslam. Hardy wriggles out of the pin, only to get caught in a lifted shoulder clutch, this time. Hardy won’t fade away though so Strowman transitions into a Yokosuka cutter.

Strowman is roaring in the middle of the ring, ready to finish this when LA Knight rushes in and hits a jumping elbow drop on Hardy, who instinctively gets him. Knight applies his BFT before Strowman even has a chance to move, granting him a DQ win.

Winner by disqualification: Jeff Hardy in 11:04 | 62

HARDY’S A DUMMY

LA Knight leaves the ring as fast as he can but grabs a microphone on his way out.

LA Knight

Hey, no hard feelings but that match seriously sucked anyway so I decided to put an end to it. You want to know why I did it? Because it’s LA Knight’s game. I pick the winners and I decided to turn that washed up, sad excuse for a wrestler into a winner. And now, I’m going to make you a loser again. Because next week, dummy, whether you like it or not, it’s LA Knight versus Jeff Hardy. Yeah! I’m going to expose you for what you are and when I’m done with, I’ll move on to the next one. I’m not going to waste a second thinking about you. I’m sure there’s a bottle or a needle waiting to comfort you somewhere, dummy. You see, LA Knight is not a creature of circumstance, he’s a creator of circumstance. Don’t worry, you have a place in history: you will be remembered as the first dummy I beat on my way to superstardom. Yeah! Mark my words and try to stay sober at least until next week.

Knight throws away the mic as Strowman is looking at him with fire in his eyes. | 75

TONIGHT’S MAIN EVENT

Barrett and Ranallo are talking up tonight’s main event.

Mauro Ranallo

Before we turn our attention to the next match up, I wanted to hear what you had to say, Wade, about tonight’s main event.

Wade Barrett

Since you want my opinion, I’ll go on record as saying it’s an absolute disgrace that Morrison and Otis have to take on Randy Orton and Matt Riddle tonight, two weeks away from SummerSlam. What have Orton and Riddle done to deserve this opportunity? They split. Big deal. It’s utterly unfair.

Mauro Ranallo

Speaking of which, a lot of people have been surprised by Orton’s decision to reform the team. It seems like Riddle’s badgered him into giving their duo another chance.

Wade Barrett

Yeah, because Orton is exactly the kind of guy whose arm you want to twist. Riddle’s a moron and this isn’t going to end well.

Mauro Ranallo

Quite frankly, I didn’t expect Orton to change his mind, what’s more on social media, but you have to give credit to Riddle for not giving up. Now, they’re one win away from another shot at the RAW Tag Team titles.

Wade Barrett

Ha! If you believe that, you’re an idiot, Mauro. They don’t call him the Viper for nothing.

Mauro Ranallo

He did say he had the time of his life with RK-Bro.

Wade Barrett

It doesn’t really matter because I’m certain MMM have the talent – and the manpower – to win this bout. They’re on a great run of form and this speculation about Orton’s motives will soon be forgotten when Otis pins him.

Their musings are interrupted by Shinsuke Nakamura’s music. | 65

CEDRIC ALEXANDER vs SHINSUKE NAKAMURA

As is now par for the course with them, Alexander and Benjamin bring with them a sports bag full of weapons and while the latter carefully lays them out, the former immediately gets in Nakamura’s face.

Despite being back from injury, Alexander is as aggressive as ever and after Nakamura slapped in a side headlock and sent him running to the ropes, he hits the first big move of the match with a dropkick. Nakamura quickly gets back to his feet, only to be caught by a backflip headscissors and dropkick combo. He kicks out of the pin fairly easily but Alexander keeps his momentum going with a springboard flatliner. He goes for another pin but Nakamura surprises him with a small package that he kicks out of at the last second. Both men start trading blows in the middle of the ring and, after landing an elbow straight in Nakamura’s face, Alexander goes for the neuralyser. Nakamura sees him coming, ducks and locks in a shining triangle right in the middle of the ring. Alexander thrashes about trying to break the hold and forces Nakamura to transition into a cross arm-breaker. Alexander looks like he’s about to tap when MVP distracts the referee, allowing Benjamin to hit Nakamura on the head with a kendo stick.

His shot is so stiff that Nakamura is immediately busted open. Alexander seizes that opportunity and regains the upper hand with a diving clotheline from the top turnbuckle. In the tussle, Nakamura lands a kick to the back of Alexander’s head. Despite the blood pouring down his eyes, he goes for the Kinshasa but Alexander sidesteps him and catches him with his lumbar check for the three count.

Winner by pinfall: Cedric Alexander in 7:23 | 59

A PARTY CUT SHORT

As soon as the bell rings, Benjamin begins throwing weapons into the ring and he and Alexander begin beating down Nakamura – who hardly does anything to defend himself anyway. They try a few of their tools on him, until Mustafa Ali’s music hits. He rushes in, drops Alexander with a rolling thunder face buster, evades a couple of right hands from Benjamin and superkicks him into next week. Alexander and Benjamin leave without much ceremony, while Ali throws their weapons back at them. | 57

HELL BREAKS LOOSE

Next up is a video package from Finn Balor. As he speaks to the camera, he’s walking in a dark forest, apparently in the middle of the night.

Finn Balor

Hey, Bray. Does this place rings a bell? I’m sure it does. You probably wonder what I’m doing here, in one of your secret places. Well, my friend, I’m afraid you don’t have much secrets for me any longer.

Uncle Howdy comes out of the shadows and joins him. A couple of lights are visible in the distance.

Uncle Howdy

You made a huge mistake when you turned me away in favour of your sad excuse of a brother. You’d made me a promise, Bray. Fortunately, there are others out there who are willing to keep their word.

Finn Balor

Let me take you back a few years ago, Bray. Six years ago to be precise. That night at SummerSlam, you humiliated me in front of the world. You turned me into a joke. But you and I, Bray, we are the same. We have something inside of us. And that creature would not let me rest until I’ve had my revenge, until I completely and utterly annihilated you. When you disappeared, I feared I’d be robbed of what’s mine by right but Uncle Howdy made sure you found your way back.

Uncle Howdy

It didn’t have to be that way, Bray. You made your choice. You should have kept your word.

Finn Balor

Hell’s not big enough for what we have on the inside, my friend. I won’t rest until there’s nothing left of you. And if you think your puppets will protect you… don’t worry, I’ve brought my own toys.

King Cuerno and Indi Hartwell join them. The lights in the distance turn out to be flames coming out of a barn.

Finn Balor

You know as well as I do that there is many ways to bring someone to do your bidding. Your secrets certainly are one of them but I have found a powerful patron for myself. What about pitting our tin soldiers against each other, uh? Yours versus mine, right now. No high stakes, it’s just a skirmish. I want you to realise how hopeless your situation is before we move in for the kill.

Uncle Howdy turns to the camera and shouts: ‘Run!’ | 67

TAYLOR ROTUNDA, MERCY THE BUZZARD (BARON CORBIN) AND SISTER ABIGAIL (NIKKI CROSS) vs KING CUERNO, INDI HARTWELL AND FINN BALOR

The lights go out in the arena and when the lightning strikes, Taylor Rotunda, Mercy the Buzzard and Sister Abigail are standing in the ring. Seconds later, fire springs from all four corners of the ring and Finn Balor, Uncle Howdy, King Cuerno and Indi Hartwell make their way to the ring. However, as Uncle Howdy is about to get into the ring, Balor winks at him and takes his place.

Hartwell and Abigail go first though. The former uses her quickness to avoid a couple of big right hands but when Hartwell connects with a kick to the guts, she finds herself on the receiving end of a running neckbreaker. She follows up with a spinning sidewalk slam that Abigail easily kicks out of. She evades a big foot from Hartwell and hits back with a grab toe hold that she transitions into a camel clutch. Hartwell manages to get up and tries to smash Abigail into the corner but she drops off and delivers a snap bridging fisherman suplex for a two-count. Hartwell kicks out and they tussle for a few seconds until Abigail comes out on top and locks in an omoplata crossface. She has to release it almost immediately though, as King Cuerno kicks her in the face. Hartwell promptly tags out and Mercy comes in as Abigail rolls out. Cuerno rushes towards him but Mercy catches him with a snake eyes. Mercy continues working on Cuerno’s head with a couple of hard strikes and a big foot. He then drags him to the top turnbuckle with a front headlock but Cuerno fights back and even manages to deliver a powerbomb to the outside, at the price of his own safety though.

With both men completely out, it isn’t long before a brawl breaks out between the remaining four competitors. A couple of minutes later, the referee restores some order and both Cuerno and Mercy are tagged out in favour of Rotunda and Balor. Despite being wary of his opponent, Wyatt’s brother has no answer for Balor’s quickness when he connects with a baseball slide. Balor adds a jumping knee drop to the neck for good measure and rushes to the top turnbuckle for his coup de grâce. He might have won the match there if Abigail didn’t break the count there. Unfortunately for her, Hartwell was lying in wait with a springboard rocket kick that hits her straight in the face. Rotunda takes advantage of the chaos to strike back with a double arm DDT. Balor ducks his next attack and counters with a Pelé kick, sending Rotunda reeling in the ropes. Balor is preparing a slingblade but Rotunda counters with and armdrag and he sets up a sister Abigail but before he can pull the trigger, King Cuerno rushes in and delivers his thrill of the hunt.

With Rotunda lying in a heap in the middle of the ring, all Balor has to do is cover him but Mercy comes back from nowhere and plants Cuerno in the mat with an end of days. Unfortunately for him, he can’t do anything when Balor attacks from behind and connects with a reverse bloody Sunday. He follows it up with a coup the grâce for the three count, with the referee apparently oblivious to the fact that Rotunda was supposed to be the legal man.

Winners by pinfall: King Cuerno, Indi Hartwell and Finn Balor in 8:40 | 61

BROKEN HEART

Our attention is brought backstage, where Candice LeRae is pacing furiously while Dexter Lumis watches over her.

Candice LeRae

Can you imagine that, Dexter? I don’t even have a match tonight! I mean, they could have told me I wasn’t even on the card. I would’ve stayed at home. What’s the point of traveling all the way to LA if they’re not even going to use me? That’s ridiculous!

Lumis seems to be considering something until he finally reaches into his pocket to get a piece of paper that he’s offering to LeRae. As she unfolds it, she discovers an artistically drawn heart.

Candice LeRae

I don’t believe it… you really don’t have anything better to do with your time, Dexter? Yeah, I love you too but it’s not preschool anymore. Yes, your drawing is very nice and I’ll pin it somewhere in my room. Happy now? Because I’m a professional wrestler and I’m here to work – not to pick up presents. I’m not an elementary school teacher. I swear…

LeRae leaves the place, rolling her eyes. The camera stays on Lumis, who wears a sad look on his face. | 51

ROBERT ROODE AND BRONSON REED vs BRON BREAKKER AND CODY RHODES

Bronson Reed goes first against Cody Rhodes, as Robert Roode doesn’t look too happy to be part of the team Kiss My Ass. Meanwhile, Shane McMahon and Jerry Lawler are staying at ringside.

Rhodes and Reed jockey for positions for a few seconds, until the latter sends the former into the ropes with an Irish whip. Rhodes is looking to take advantage but he falls flat on his face as Shane grabs his boot. Reed immediately takes advantage with a leg drop but, instead of going for the pin, he takes Rhodes to the second rope and delivers a massive avalanche powerbomb that sends Rhodes bumping across the ring. Reed looks to press on but Rhodes hits back with a baseball slide followed by a gourdbuster that almost breaks the ring in half. Wisely, Rhodes tags out after such a feat of strength. Breakker makes a beeline for Reed, who’s still on the floor, but Roode steps in to confront him, only to be swiftly dealt with thanks to a military press powerslam. Still, the distraction is enough to allow Reed to take the upper hand with a GTS. Breakker is staggering but he stays up and when Reed comes in for the kill, he gets caught by a scoop powerslam. A front slam gives Breakker the first pin attempt of the match which makes Reed even madder. A series of strikes push Breakker back but his clotheline attempt is countered by a back body drop and he goes crashing loudly outside the ring.

Breakker doesn’t wait for him to come back in but Roode’s waiting for him outside. He sends him crashing head first into the post and hits a glorious DDT on the concrete floor. He doesn’t get to celebrate for long though, as Rhodes sneaks in behind him and delivers a DDT of his own. Rhodes sends Breakker back in, looking for a count out victory, but Reed comes back at the last second. Both men make it gingerly back to a vertical base and start trading blows, until Reed somehow lands a snap superkick straight into his opponent’s face. Breakker makes it to his corner before dropping down and Rhodes evades a couple of hard shots before connecting with a dropkick. It takes another superkick to finally sends Reed down and he immediately locks in a figure four leg lock. Reed is about to tap out when Roode comes back to kick Rhodes in the face before hitting a clotheline. Roode’s tagged in but Reed won’t leave the ring, which allows Shane to sneak in and hit Rhodes with a series of right hands. Roode is on the top turnbuckle for an avalanche clotheline but Rhodes catches him in mid-air with a disaster kick, followed by a crossroads.

Always the gentleman, he lets Breakker pin him, while Lawler is holding onto Reed’s belt to prevent him from making the save.

Winners by pinfall: Bron Breakker and Cody Rhodes in 9:48 | 57

SINISTER WHISPERS

Candice LeRae is packing her things in the locker room area when Sister Abigail comes out of the shadows behind her.

Sister Abigail

Candice, I didn’t think you would give up so easily. That’s it, then? You’re going out with a whimper? It seems like, after all, you were just Johnny’s wife…

Candice LeRae

What did you expect? You set me up against Piper Niver, a woman I have no chance in hell to beat. What am I supposed to do now? Go to Triple H’s office and demand a match?

Sister Abigail

Women have so much more power than you think, Candice. But you see yourself as a mother, not a woman anymore. You should feed on men’s desire. Give me that.

LeRae sheepishly hands over Lumis’ drawing, who burst into flames as soon as Abigail touches it.

Candice LeRae

What do you mean?

Sister Abigail

Most men would do anything to catch a woman’s attention and there are few more vain than those who fight for a living. Use them. Have them do your bidding. In a few seconds, that simpleton Dolph Ziggler will come knocking at your door. Wrap him around your little finger. Be in control again. Embrace the chaos!

Abigail pushes LeRae against the locker and tears up her blouse to reveal her cleavage. Someone knocks at the door and LeRae turns around. When she looks in front of her again, Abigail is gone. She picks up a pair of sunglasses lying on a bench and walks up to the door, rolling her hips. The flames from Lumis’ burning heart reflects on her glasses as she opens the door.

Candice LeRae

Dolph! What a surprise! I wasn’t expecting you… | 53

CHAMPIONS’ ADVANTAGE

Mankind is crying softly in the boiler room when Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn come up.

Sami Zayn

Er… anybody here?

Mankind

Heh. I know what you’re thinking. What kind of man would live here, aren’t you?

Sami Zayn

Not really, no. Actually…

Mankind

DON’T YOU DARE LYING TO MY FACE! I know everything that happens behind those little beady eyes of yours. I know what you think when you think nobody is watching.

Kevin Owens

I’m pretty sure Sami himself doesn’t know what he’s thinking most of the time.

Sami Zayn

That’s not true!

Kevin Owens

And what were you thinking when you joined the Bloodline?

Sami Zayn

Okay, you may have a point there.

Kevin Owens

And when you were spewing those crazy conspiracy theories?

Sami Zayn

I was in a bad place but…

Kevin Owens

And when you impersonated a luchador?

Sami Zayn

Hey, that was… never mind. We’re not here to talk about me.

Mankind

No, you came to grovel at Mankind’s feet, didn’t you.

Sami Zayn

I wouldn’t put it that way…

Kevin Owens

… but we wouldn’t mind a little favour, yeah.

Mankind

Everybody expects so much from Mankind. You’re not as demanding with yourselves though. Look at yourself, you hardly look like athletes at all.

Owens and Zayn look at each other.

Kevin Owens

You did put on some weight, Sami…

Sami Zayn

What are you talking about? If I were any sharper, I’d be cutting through the walls like a hot knife through butter.

Kevin Owens

Anyway, look who’s talking. You’re hardly jacked yourself.

Mankind

[shaking his head] Always the jibes, that’s what Mankind has to endure everyday. God, why did you make Mankind so imperfect?

Sami Zayn

Look, we didn’t want to intrude upon you, Sir. But we were thinking about our match at SummerSlam and whatever the result of tonight’s match is, maybe you could make this a little more special. How about a street fight, for instance?

Mankind seems to be considering the idea for a moment, then a faint laughter comes out of the darkness.

Mankind

Yes… yes. More pain, more blood, more shattered bones. A war… this is what Mankind’s all about.

Kevin Owens

Thanks, man!

Mankind

But, on the other hand, I can almost taste your frustration if I were to turn your request down, now. Ah, decisions… decisions. Leave me be for now! I’ll give you my answer next week!

Zayn and Owens leave hesitantly while Mankind rolls up into a corner and rocks himself to sleep. | 83

OTIS AND JOHN MORRISON vs MATT RIDDLE AND RANDY ORTON

Otis and John Morrison look all business as they make their way to the ring, accompanied by the rest of MMM. Their attitude is in stark contrast with Matt Riddle’s and Randy Orton’s broad smiles. Both teams confer for a few seconds and, finally, Otis and Orton start the match.

Orton’s never been at his best against larger opponents and Otis proves no different. He looks for an opening in the early goings but quickly loses patience. He runs to the rope in order to land a big move but gets caught with a vicious body slam instead. Otis adds a second slam for good measure and makes the first pin attempt of the match but Orton easily kicks out. He quickly tags out though and Riddle makes his presence felt with a roundhouse kick straight to the mush but Otis completely no-sells it. He then headbutts Riddle and follows it up with a big splash once he’s on the ground. Riddle tries to get back up but as hard as he tries, he’s brought back down by a shoulder tackle. All the while, Morrison is smoking his big-ass cigar in the corner, apparently joking with Maxxine. Otis is ready for another slam but Riddle lands a couple of knee strikes to get himself free and, in an impressive show of strength, he powerbombs Otis. Exhausted, he tags in Orton, who steps in with a sadistic smile on his face. He sets himself up for his punt kick but Morrison spots him and catches him in the middle of his run with a quark dive.

Three of the four competitors are sprawled all over the ring. Otis finally gets back up and after pummelling Orton, he connects with another big splash. Orton kicks out at the last second and look to his corner, hoping to tag out again but in the meantime, Morrison pulled Riddle from the apron and superkicked him. That second of distraction is enough for Otis to send him crashing again with a clotheline. Otis’ feeling it now and he delivers a caterpillar on a helpless Orton. He kicks out again but Morrison comes in and delivers a crucifix spinning side slam. The referee is unable to contain Morrison and Otis, who take turns stomping Orton. Otis then sets himself for a dozer bomb but Orton rolls out of harm’s way at the last second. He grabs Otis and sends him crashing into the corner with an exploder suplex, before retreating across the ring to tag a returning Riddle in. Morrison tags himself in but he’s a little too slow. Riddle hits a series of clothelines before delivering a fisherman buster. Morrison misses wildly with a couple of high kicks, leaving himself exposed. Riddle takes his chance and hits a BTS.

Riddle drops upon him like a ton of brick but Otis is back in time to break the count. Riddle is going berserk though and before Morrison can regain control, he sends him to the ground again with a spear. Still, Morrison manages to tag out but Riddle evades Otis’ strikes and connects with a spinning heel kick and a jumping senton. Otis tries to run him over again but Riddle sidesteps him and he crashes into the corner. Riddles rushes behind him and goes for his broderek. He’s about to cover him when Orton taps on his shoulder. Riddle turns around with a smile on his face… and Orton delivers an RKO before leaving the ring. Everyone looks stunned but Morrison takes advantage of the confusion to drag Otis back to his corner, tag himself in and hits his starship pain on Riddle for the three count.

The show ends with MMM celebrating in the middle of the ring, while Orton makes his way up the ramp and occasionally turning back to cast a sideways glance at Riddle’s lifeless body.

Winners by pinfall: Otis and John Morrison in 17:34 | 76

Show rating: 75

Last Edit: Jan 30, 2024 22:57:00 GMT 1 by mistersocko

mistersocko
Developmental Draw

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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Jan 25, 2024 19:21:07 GMT 1 Asaemon likes this

Quote

Post by mistersocko on Jan 25, 2024 19:21:07 GMT 1

NEXT WEEK ON RAW

Cody Rhodes vs Austin Theory

Jeff Hardy vs LA Knight

Omos vs Prince Puma (winner will face Bobby Lashley for the US Title at SummerSlam)

SUMMERSLAM CARD (so far)

John Morrison & Otis vs Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens (RAW Tag Title match)

~~Cody Rhodes vs Bray Wyatt (?)~~

Asuka vs Charlotte

Rhea Ripley vs Becky Lynch (SD Women's Title match)

The Street Profits vs The Imperium (SD Tag Title match)

John Cena vs Bill Goldberg (?)

Roman Reigns vs ??? (Universal Title match)

Bobby Lashley vs ??? (US Title match)

mistersocko
Developmental Draw

I have made 60 posts
Location:

WWE 2023 - A much darker place Jan 30, 2024 23:43:03 GMT 1 Asaemon and Be the Booker like this

Quote

Post by mistersocko on Jan 30, 2024 23:43:03 GMT 1

From Huntington, WV

IT’S ON

As Becky Lynch makes her way to the ring to open up the show, we’re reminded of the war of words between Lynch and Rhea Ripley that culminated last week.

Beck Lynch

So, we’re ten days away from SummerSlam and Rhea Ripley still doesn’t have a challenger. I think we all know why I’m here and what’s coming up next. Rhea, you’ve been holding that belt for more than three months now and it’s been an absolute bore fest from day one. I’m pretty sure nobody in this arena could remember more than one of those title defences. At this point, you’re nothing more than a gimmick: you’re a big woman with a boy toy. Oh, you sur talk the talk. But you can’t walk the walk. I heard your pointless threats last week and if you had the experience or the talent to hang in the ring with me, I might have been impressed. But you don’t have it and The Man has come to put everyone out of their misery. So, bring out…

Her speech is interrupted by Toxic Attraction’s music, as Gigi Dolin and Jacy Jayne make their way to the ring.

Gigi Dolin

Yeah, yeah, yeah… Becky, why don’t you just get to the point? Tell them you’re going to face Rhea at SummerSlam and be done with it. You know, you don’t have to hug the microphone for half an hour to do that.

Jacy Jayne

She’s probably feeling a bit insecure. She wants to make sure these people still love her.

Gigi Dolin

Becky, do you realise the attention span of the average American is in freefall. You need to make it quick because, let’s face it, your looks aren’t going to keep people glued to their screens anymore.

Becky Lynch

I don’t remember either you two ever being funny but I think there used to be someone with a lick of charisma in your group, no?

Her mention of Mandy Rose doesn’t sit well at all with Dolin and Jayne, who are getting ready to attack her when Ripley’s music hits.

Rhea Ripley

Girls, let me stop you right there. I have a couple of things to say. First, Becky, you just made the biggest mistake of your life. You’re on. I’m going to humiliate you at SummerSlam and after that, if you find someone willing to broadcast your ugly mug, you’ll have a lot more time to spend on talk shows, believe me. Second, don’t go and break my SummerSlam opponent. However, if one of you wants to face tonight and beat her… I’m willing to give her a title shot next.

Ripley walks away as Lynch is getting ready for an impromptu match. Dolin and Jayne are trying to decide who will face her. | 78

GIGI DOLIN vs BECKY LYNCH

Finally, Dolin goes in as the bell rings. She exchanges of few words with Lynch in the middle of the ring and likely hits a nerve as Lynch tries to slap her. Dolin ducks her and hits a snap half Nelson suplex to send her opponent crashing across the ring. Obviously pleased with herself, Dolin teases her with a couple of soft kicks to the head but Lynch counters by grabbing her leg for a rolling knee bar. Dolin screams in agony but, thanks to Jayne’s help, she manages to grab the ropes. Feeling disrespected, she just lunges on Lynch and pummels her until pushes her with authority. They trade a couple of blows in the middle of the ring but an Irish whip from Lynch is countered into a running STO by Dolin. Lynch kicks out of the pin and hits back with a hip toss. This puts her momentarily in a strong position but neither competitor seems to be able to gather any momentum in this match. Dolin turns the table with a quick roll-up that Lynch kicks out of, followed by an Irish whip into the corner for a foot choke.

Despite her precarious position, Lynch sees Jayne sneaking in. She drops her with an elbow before breaking the hold and sending Dolin crashing out of the ring with a clotheline over the top rope. Before she can get back up, Dolin finds herself on the receiving end of a diving forearm smash. Lynch keeps the pressure on with a couple of uppercuts but Jayne interferes again, forcing Lynch to dispatch her with a superkick. When she turns around, Dolin is ready for her next move and she sends Lynch crashing head first into the post. Grabbing her by the hair, she drags her back into the ring and sets herself up for a slingblade from the second turnbuckle for her first near-fall of the match. Lynch wisely rolls out of the ring but Dolin is one step ahead of her and she connects with a diving cannonball. They both have a tough time getting back on their feet and Jayne makes her presence felt again by sliding a folded steel chair next to her tag partner. Dolin is a fraction of second quicker than Lynch, which is enough for her to hit her Gigi driver on the chair.

Lynch is completely out of it but, fortunately for her, she’s also outside the ring. Dolin has to make a detour inside to stop the referee’s count, before dragging her back in for the pin. She’s already celebrating her win when the referee notices Lynch’s foot on the rope. Dolin completely loses it and begins a heated argument with the referee. This allows Lynch to recover and when Dolin rushes to attack her again, she’s met with a series of quick armdrags. The fourth time, Lynch doesn’t let go and tries to slap in a dis-arm-her but Dolin uses the momentum to get free. With Lynch sitting in the middle of the ring, she regains the upper hand with a shoot kick straight to her face. She keeps on kicking her until Lynch blocks one of her shots and sends her flying with a bexploder. Dolin lands awkwardly and while the referee is checking on her, Jayne hits Lynch from behind with a pump kick. Dolin seizes her opportunity: she rushes in to hit a Canadian destroyer. She sets her up for the Gigi driver but Lynch counters. She shifts her weight and sends Dolin to the ground where she slaps in the dis-arm-her and, this time, Dolin has no choice but to tap out.

Winner by submission: Becky Lynch in 14:51 | 64

HIJACKERS

Cole and McAfee talk us through to the next match: a one-on-one bout between Sheamus and Erik. The Celtic Warrior is still hunting for the Intercontinental Title, while Erik is trying to regain some momentum after Ivar’s injury a couple of months ago.

But before they even get started, the match is interrupted by Veer Mahan and Drake Maverick. They rush to the ring and Mahan sends Sheamus out with a clotheline before trading punches with Erik. The referee tries to regain some measure of control but Maverick keeps getting in his face with his kazoo. He finally gets enough and calls the match off. Sheamus leaves the place with a disgruntled look on his face but Erik isn’t done with Mahan. Maverick is jumping around the place like a madman, calling for the bell. After a few seconds of confusion, he gets his wish. | 51

ERIK vs VEER MAHAN

Erik and Mahan are already slugging it out in the middle of the ring when the bell rings but the latter is getting the upper hand. A front slam gets him the first count of the match and he follows it up with a snake eyes that sends Erik crashing head first into the top turnbuckle. Erik tries to fight back but Mahan ducks a couple of right hands and counters with a scoop slam for another near-fall. He stomps viciously at Erik before he gets a chance to get up and sends him into the corner. Mahan goes for a body avalanche but Erik moves out at the last second and slaps in a rear naked choke. Mahan tries to get on top of him to get another count, forcing Erik to transition to a belly to back German suplex. Mahan rolls to the other end of the ring and when Erik closes in on him, he greets him with a kick to the jaw. Erik staggers, allowing Mahan to regain the advantage with a gorilla press. He picks him again but Erik headbutts him and connects with a powerslam before locking in a modified keylock.

Mahan has nowhere to go as Erik has his own back against the rope. He looks ready to give up but Maverick keeps blowing his kazoo straight into Erik’s ear until he can’t help but try to swat him like an irritating bug. That’s all the distraction Mahan needed: he lands an uppercut and hits his million-dollar arm. All that’s left for him to do is to lock in his cervical clutch in the middle of the ring to get the win.

Winner by submission: Veer Mahan in 5:38 | 51

THE CHAMP IS HERE

Next up is John Cena, making his way to the ring. As Cole and McAfee remind us, he’s been called out by Goldberg last week, who challenged him to a match at SummerSlam. If Cena wins, Goldberg will retire but if he loses, Cena has to promise he will never challenge for the world title again. During the week, Cena announced on social media that he would give his answer on SmackDown.

John Cena

We’ve got a live crowd, tonight [as the boos and cheers echo in the arena]! As you may know, I’ve flown across the country to be with you and answer Goldberg’s challenge. I’m going to be honest here: WWE will always be my home but I’m quite busy in Hollywood at the moment. Looks like some people enjoy my work, after all! [lots of boos and a few cheers] So, my first reaction was: I’ll do that when I have a moment. Then I stopped for a moment and I thought: Ok, these guys deserve better. Hey, Goldberg deserves better. Love him or hate him, he’s a special character in the history of wrestling. Now, he wants to go out on his own terms and that’s something I can respect. Now, why he asked me to do the dirty work, I have no idea! He’s basically offering a career versus career match at this point. I’ve been there for a long time, done that and everything else for that matter. The only thing left in front of me is that seventeenth world title. Is ending the career of a guy I have nothing but respect for worth blowing my dream into pieces? Yes, I think so. Hustle, Loyalty, Respect: it’s not just a catchphrase. It’s a philosophy I promised to live and die for. So, Bill Goldberg, you want your match at SummerSlam? You’re on, pal! And bring…

He can’t finish because The Judgement Day’s music hits as Karrion Kross, Scarlett, Damian Priest and Dominik Mysterio come out.

Karrion Kross

Your time is up, John Cena. If you have any common sense, you will leave this ring and never come back.

John Cena

I don’t know you but I have heard of what you’ve done and I have to say I’m not a fan of your work. Karl Anderson is a good guy…

Dominik Mysterio

He was a good guy.

John Cena

You should drop that attitude, kid. It doesn’t suit you.

Dominik Mysterio

And who’s going to make me? You?

Damian Priest

Dominik, please. John, you may not know it but things have changed in your absence. This is the Judgement Day’s show now and you are not wanted here.

John Cena

Man, you can’t imagine how many times I’ve heard that. I wasn’t even wanted when it was the John Cena show! How about you come inside the ring and say it straight to my face.

Damian Priest

I’d be happy to. | 69

DAMIAN PRIEST vs JOHN CENA

Kross and Scarlett walk back up the ramp, leaving only Dominik at ringside to support Priest. Meanwhile, Cena looks as confident as ever.

Cena and Priest study each other for a few seconds and they go for a test of strength that Cena wins fairly easily, pushing Priest into the corner. Cena’s cocky smile doesn’t sit well with Priest, who pushes him back angrily and adds a roundhouse kick for good measure. Surprised, Cena takes a couple of steps back and Priest uses his momentum to connect with a forearm smash. Cena shakes the cobwebs and both men start brawling in the middle of the ring. Cena finally takes the upper hand. He lands a punch right in Priest’s mush and delivers a jumping headscissors. Priest quickly gets back on his feet and hits back with a spinning elbow. Cena ducks another punch and connects with a series of punches and kicks to the midsection until he sees an opening for a float-over powerbomb. He doesn’t even try to pin Priest though. Instead, he goes for the five-knuckle shuffle but before he can transition into the attitude adjustment, he has to drop Dominik with an elbow, after he jumped on the apron. He picks up Priest and sets up the attitude adjustment, while Rhea Ripley comes down the ramp.

Dominik’s distraction worked though. Priest struggles enough to grab the top rope and get out of the move unscathed. A big right hand gets him the space he needs to hit a springboard forearm smash. He stomps at Cena and when it looks like he’s not responding anymore, he loads the razor’s edge and sends him crashing into the corner. Another roundhouse kick catches Cena right to the side of the head and gets Priest the first count of the match. After a short argument with the referee, he grabs Cena by the throat and hits his South of heaven for the cover but, somehow, Cena kicks out at the last second. Cena’s hanging by a thread at this point but he regains the upper hand when Priest goes to the well one time too many with another razor’s edge. Cena breaks free, kicks him in the gut and hits a sunset flip for a near-fall. A modified fisherman’s suplex gets him one step closer but Ripley breaks his momentum when she comes to the ropes to trash-talk him.

Cena approaches, all smiles, but gets a hard slap across the face for his troubles. Priest is right behind him, ready to deliver a jumping corkscrew roundhouse kick but Cena feels him coming and sidesteps at the last second, letting Ripley get the brunt of the attack. Priest is understandably upset and Cena hoists him on his shoulders and delivers an attitude adjustment for the three count.

Winner by pinfall: John Cena in 9:42 | 71

A CHIP ON DOM’S SHOULDER

Back from the break, Dominik and Ripley are heading back to the locker room area when they cross paths with Edge and Beth Phoenix.

Edge

Hey kid, looks like things didn’t go your friend’s way tonight. For the Judgement Day, it’s another defeat; for you, it’s just a Friday Night.

Dominik Mysterio

Ha, very funny, old man. I wonder if you’ll find something clever to say when I relieve you of that belt.

Edge

Last time I checked, you weren’t even my challenger.

Dominik Mysterio

Then give me a chance to prove myself! Put me in a match against anyone next week and I’ll show you why I should be the Intercontinental champion.

Edge

That could be fun… What do you think, Beth. The kid wants to prove he can eat at the grown-ups’ table.

Beth Phoenix

Our girls would wipe the floor with him.

Edge

Come on, don’t be like that, Beth. The kid fancies himself some kind of tough guy. Don’t go and break his confidence.

Dominik Mysterio

I did some hard time…

Edge

Yeah, yeah, we know. Beth and I, we’re really afraid. Aren’t we, Beth? Anyway, if Punk Wannabe Mysterio wants a match, who am I to deny him? I’ll try to think of something until next week. Don’t thank me, kid.

Edge and Phoenix leave the place laughing while Dominik and Ripley cast angry glances. | 64

TWO ON ONE

Meanwhile, Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler make their way to the ring. After being challenged multiple times by Raquel Rodriguez for their Women’s Tag Team championship, they conceded yet another title shot to the team of Rodriguez and Morgan after being disqualified against their would-be challengers. Last week, Rousey apparently broke Rodriguez’ arm for the second time during a match, leaving Morgan without a partner.

Rousey and Baszler are greeted by a chorus of boos from the crowd, much to their delight.

Ronda Rousey

Ok, you’ve had your fun but Shayna and I would rather make our time in this hellhole of a town as short as possible. Morgan, we’ve got something to say to you so bring your butt in this ring right now.

Shayna Baszler

Come on, don’t be shy. We don’t bite.

Liv Morgan’s music hits and she makes her way to the ring and looks defiantly at the champs.

Ronda Rousey

You’ve got some guts to come here alone, I’ll give you that, but I’m pretty sure this is all an act. Deep down, you must be shaking in your boots after what I did to your girlfriend. You remember you had a match with Shayna tonight, birdbrain?

Liv Morgan

Why don’t you cut to the chase?

Ronda Rousey

Rowdy… I like that. You may think that you’re off the hook with Raquel’s injury but we’ve already made it clear to Adam Pearce that we won’t let you replace with someone else. It’s her fault she got injured. She should look after herself. So, tonight’s match is on and you will be facing the two of us at SummerSlam, no matter what. There’s no way out of this for you, little birdie.

Shayna Baszler

Unless she gets injured tonight…

Ronda Rousey

Shayna, you’re such a spoilsport.

Rousey leaves the ring as the bell is about to ring. | 72

SHAYNA BASZLER vs LIV MORGAN

Morgan offers to shake hands as the bell rings but Baszler slaps her in the face instead. Both women start the match prodding for an opening, until Morgan lands a punch. She tries to follow it up with a spinning elbow but Baszler ducks and hits back with a released German suplex. She rushes in to apply an armbar but Morgan manages to put her foot on the rope to break the hold. Morgan is just a little quicker to get back to her feet, which allows her to reclaim the advantage with a running front dropkick. Once Baszler gets back up, they grab each other’s hands but the test of strength turns in Baszler’s favour. She folds Morgan backwards, sweeps her feet and ends the sequence with a shoot kick for a quick one-count. Morgan lands a kick to the mid-section, forcing Baszler to retreat, only to be caught by a spear as soon as she’s back up. This isn’t enough to get Baszler the win so she picks her up but Morgan counters with a 201 facebreaker. Both women are sprawled in the middle of the ring, catching their breath.

Baszler crawls to the corner to help herself back to a vertical base but Morgan is quicker again and she connects with a double foot stomp. Unfortunately, she finds herself in the wrong corner. Rousey takes advantage of the referee’s poor positioning to hit a step up knee to the face. Baszler sees the opening and immediately goes for the kirifuda driver but she rushes her move a bit. Morgan has enough left in the tank to shift her weight and pin Baszler’s shoulders to the ground. Despite Rousey’s warning, she won’t release the hold, conceding the win.

Winner by pinfall: Liv Morgan in 8:16 | 58

LOST IN INTERPRETATION

Kayla Braxton is interviewing Rick Boogs backstage.

Kayla Braxton

Please, welcome my guest at this time, Rick Boogs. Rick, a lot’s been said after your ill-fated attempt at forming a tag team with Elias.

Rick Boogs

What can I say, Kayla? I guess there wasn’t room enough for two guitar heroes in the ring.

Kayla Braxton

Still, it looks like you’re coming out of this team without anything to show for your trouble. While Elias has been seen helping Drew McIntyre occasionally, your appearances have been few and far between. What have you been up to.

Rick Boogs

When I’m not training, I’m practicing a new form of art. I call this ‘musical portrait’. You want to give it a try. Give me a name.

Braxton names a couple of wrestlers and Boogs plays a few riffs supposed to fit their personality. He looks like he’s enjoying himself but Braxton quickly runs out of idea. Pressed for another name, she says ‘Ludwig Kaiser’. Boogs looks upset and, after a few seconds, he just produces a terrible audio feedback. It doesn’t take long for Kaiser and Giovani Vinci to rush and beat him down. Their assault is interrupted by the Street Profits though and the brawl is made even more chaotic when The Miz – out of all people – joins the fray. | 63

LUDWIG KAISER, GIOVANNI VINCI AND THE MIZ vs RICK BOOGS, ANGELO DAWKINS AND MONTEZ FORD

After a short break, we’re back at ringside for a six-man tag team match, with The Miz and Rick Boogs starting things up.

Miz starts aggressively, with a kick to Boogs’ mid-section, followed by a reverse DDT combo. He grabs him by the hair, picks him up and unleashes a snap suplex for the first count of the match, albeit a quick one. An Irish whip sends Boogs crashing into the corner, giving Miz the perfect window for his corner clotheline. He spends a little too long celebrating his strong start though and when he turns back, Boogs smashes him with a running clotheline before quickly tagging out. Ford jumps in and connects with a rolling thunder frog splash but only gets a two-count. Miz decides that discretion is the better part of valour and Vinci comes in his place. He rushes forward but gets caught by a float-over DDT. Ford tries to press on, only for Vinci to hit back with a dropkick. Ford rolls out and tags Dawkins on his way. Vinci is hot on his heels but the massive clotheline he’s hit with stops him dead in his tracks. Vinci goes for a brawl and both men begin trading blows in the middle of the ring. However, Dawkins takes the upper hand and drives his point home with a corkscrew corner splash.

He's about to finish him when Maryse gets to the apron and starts arguing with him. Vinci takes advantage of the distraction to tag in Kaiser. He sneaks in behind Dawkins and hits him with a combination of corner kick, enzuigiri and butterfly suplex. Miz and Vinci jump in to block Dawkins and Ford as Kaiser hits his swinging DDT for the three count.

Winners by pinfall: Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci and The Miz in 7:22 | 67

IN MEMORIAM ANDERSON

Next up is a video of the Judgement Day, out in full force to gloat about Karl Anderson’s demise. They’re filmed in some dark warehouse but the footage is intertwined with flashes from last week’s SmackDown and, specifically, images of Anderson hung upside down above the ring, his blood dripping on Karrion Kross’ face.

Karrion Kross

We said we would do it and we did. Karl Anderson’s career is over. Judgement has been cast and he’s been found unworthy.

Scarlett

You should have listened, AJ. It wasn’t even a secret. You saw every grain of sand moving through the hourglass but you chose not to believe what was right in front of your eyes. And now, your friend has paid the price.

Damian Priest

As Anderson is cast aside, our Judgement will now turn to someone else.

Dominik Mysterio

I hope you don’t have too much trouble getting to sleep, Gallows. Heh. Oops, I may have said too much!

Rhea Ripley

It’s too late to turn the tide, now. It’s the two of you against the five of us. If I were you, I’d consider an early retirement. It’d be less painful that way.

Karrion Kross

Our fire will consume everything on SmackDown. The McMahons thought they were immune to it but nobody’s safe. There is no line we’re not willing to cross to force our will upon others.

Behind them, Scarlett is breathing fire. Something catches fire and the camera draws closer, until it’s engulfed by the flames amid the laughter of the other Judgement Day members. | 69

DOMINIK MYSTERIO AND RHEA RIPLEY vs AJ STYLES AND MIA YIM

It turns out the video was a teaser for the next bout. Dominik Mysterio and AJ Styles get things underway and immediately start jockeying for position.

They go back and forth for a few seconds, until Styles finds some space and momentum for a hooking armdrag. Mysterio isn’t too happy about it and tries to fight back but Styles counters his every move. Frustrated, he takes a step back, comes closer to Styles’ corner… and superkicks Yim, much to Ripley’s delight. Styles’ furious. He rushes in but Mysterio sidesteps him and sends him outside with a clotheline over the top rope. Before he can get back in, Mysterio is all over him again with a sliding sunset flip. He tries to finish the job with a standing moonsault but Styles raises his knees just in time. He quickly makes his way back to the ring and tags Yim in. Ripley comes in with a sick smile on her face and before Yim can build any momentum, she finds herself on the receiving end of a jumping enzuigiri. She stumbles to the ropes and hits back with a discus clotheline, followed by a standing moonsault for the first count of the match. However, her attention is brought to ringside again, as Karrion Kross and Luke Gallows are brawling in the middle of the crowd.

Kross and Gallows are hitting each other with everything they’ve got but when Yim turns around, Ripley is ready to pounce on with a missile dropkick. Yim tags out and quickly rolls out of the ring. Styles and Ripley have a short stare down in the middle of the ring but the latter finally goes for the ropes and connects with a tope con giro. Mysterio comes back in but he’s immediately caught by a picture-perfect dropkick from Styles. A ushigoroshi almost gives Styles the win but Mysterio kicks out at the last second. Styles hoists him on his shoulders for another power move but Mysterio counters with a slingshot tornado DDT. Styles evades a high kick and Mysterio goes to the ropes for momentum, looking for a hurricanrana. Styles sidesteps him though and pushes him over the top rope but Mysterio hangs on. They trade a few blows until Styles takes the upper hand and sets himself up for a snap apron suplex. He throws Mysterio back in and hits a springboard 450 splash.

Mysterio somehow kicks out and starts crawling to his corner, with Ripley waiting for him. They’re about to make the tag when Beck Lynch comes out of nowhere and pulls Ripley down before she sends her crashing against the steel steps. Styles doesn’t think twice: he applies his Styles clash and covers Mysterio for the win.

Winners by pinfall: AJ Styles and Mia Yim in 11:06 | 71

WHAT THE TRIBAL CHIEF WANTS…

Our attention is drawn backstage again, as Roman Reigns his holding a council in his private room.

Roman Reigns

Wise Man, I hear they’re going to have a match tonight to choose my next victim.

Paul Heyman

Yes, my tribal chief.

Roman Reigns

Tell me, who will take part.

Paul Heyman

Rey Mysterio, Drew McIntyre and er… Gunther, my tribal chief.

Reigns rubs his chin for a moment, obviously considering something.

Roman Reigns

I don’t care about the Nazi cosplayer and that Goody-Two-Shoes midget but I don’t want to face McIntyre. Make sure that doesn’t happen, Wise Man.

Paul Heyman

Er… how am I supposed to do that, my tribal chief?

Roman Reigns

Do I look like I care? You’re the Wise Man.

Paul Heyman

If I may be so bold, my tribal chief, why don’t you want to face him? A couple of months ago, you asked me to find you a worthy opponent and…

Reigns jumps on his feet and towers menacingly above Heyman.

Roman Reigns

Sorry, I must have missed something. Who made you the tribal chief? [he grinds Heyman’s face against one of his belts] Maybe you won these while I wasn’t looking, uh?

Paul Heyman

[squealing] No, my tribal chief…

Heyman tries to walk away but Solo Sikoa cuts his retreat.

Roman Reigns

Let me make this perfectly clear. When I give you an order, you don’t ask any question. You just say: ‘yes, my tribal chief’. Am I making myself clear?

Paul Heyman

Yes, my tribal chief.

Roman Reigns

I’ve become complacent. I’m too kind and giving and look where that got me with my cousins, not to mention that turncoat Sami Zayn. Being part of the Bloodline comes with responsibilities and duties. It’s not your place to question my motives, Wise Man.

Paul Heyman

But I need to know to act in your best interests… you’re not afraid of Drew McIntyre, are you, my tribal chief?

Reigns look him in the eye with an icy stare.

Roman Reigns

I’m beginning to question your wisdom, Wise Man.

Paul Heyman

Oh, I’m sorry, my tribal chief. Forget I asked. I’ll… I need to make some arrangements for tonight’s match if you give me permission to leave, my tribal chief.

Reigns doesn’t answer but waves his hand dismissively. Heyman walks backwards to the door and takes his leave while Reigns sits back in his armchair.

Roman Reigns

[addressing Sikoa] Go with him. I need to be alone. | 99

REY MYSTERIO vs DREW MCINTYRE vs GUNTHER

Rey Mysterio gets a good pop from the crowd while McIntyre seems to be scanning the crowd all through his entrance, presumably looking for a sign of Logan Paul. Gunther, for his part, comes to the ring alone.

McIntyre and Gunther have unfinished business since Wrestlemania and they seem pretty eager to return to it. As soon as the bell ring, they eject Mysterio from the ring and begin slugging it out. Gunther quickly gains the upper hand, thanks to a couple of vicious chops, pushing McIntyre ever closer to the corner. McIntyre willingly take an elbow to get closer and hits an overhead belly to belly suplex that sends Gunther crashing into the corner. He goes for the cover but it’s way too early to think about a win. He picks up Gunther, sits him up on the top turnbuckle and delivers a tree of woe two-hand choke suplex but still gets no cigar. Mysterio’s back though and a slingshot springboard crossbody on McIntyre also gets him a short count. Gunther tries to power Mysterio out of the ring again but he gets caught by a grab toe hold that leaves him hanging on the second rope. Mysterio can hardly believe his luck and sets himself up for an early 619. He’s running at full speed towards Gunther but McIntyre jumps to his feet and catches him mid-run with a thunderous claymore kick.

McIntyre immediately covers him but just as the referee is about to hit three, Gunther comes from behind and grabs him by the throat. He drags him across the ropes and beats him mercilessly with a series of forearm to the chest. McIntyre drops to the floor like a ton of brick and Gunther can now turn his attention back to Mysterio. He rushes towards him but Mysterio ducks a couple of shots, goes to the rope to gain momentum and delivers a tilt-a-whirl headscissors. Mysterio goes to the outside and primes himself for another springboard crossbody but Gunther is quicker than he looks. He blocks his attempt and counters with a solid suplex. He grinds Mysterio’s face under his boot for a few seconds and sets him up for his last symphony but McIntyre sneaks back behind him and hits back with a reverse Alabama slam. He goes for the cover but Mysterio breaks up the count. Both men argue for a few seconds, until McIntyre suddenly drops him with a Glasgow kiss.

He drags him to the top turnbuckle, apparently for a belly-to-back superplex, but Mysterio hits back with a couple of elbows. McIntyre falls back but he wills himself back up and, before Mysterio can react, he sends him flying across the ring with a spider German suplex. All three men need a breather at this stage and that’s the moment Paul Heyman and Solo Sikoa choose to come out. Heyman briefly argues with the referee, which gives Gunther the time he needs to climb to the top turnbuckle before hitting a clumsy diving splash on McIntyre, who kicks out at two. Mysterio’s back in the game too and he makes his presence felt with a series of kicks on Gunther. A back body drop sends Gunther to the floor but Gunther won’t let go. Mysterio rolls along with him and hits him straight in the head with a kick to the head. He goes for the cover but Gunther kicks out at two. He doesn’t get much time to celebrate though, as McIntyre drops him with a Glasgow kiss as soon as he gets back on his feet.

Mysterio tries to steal the win with a leg drop on Gunther as McIntyre is still reeling from his own headbutt. McIntyre breaks the count, picks him up, kicks him in the gut and delivers a future shock DDT in the middle of the ring. Mysterio kicks out but only to delay the inevitable as McIntyre sets up a claymore kick and connects as soon as he gets back up. All is left is to cover him… but Solo Sikoa grabs him by the shoulder and hits a Samoan spike right in the throat. Gunther is the first to emerge from the chaos. He almost puts Mysterio through the mat with a last symphony, while Sikoa keeps on beating McIntyre outside the ring.

Winner by pinfall: Gunther in 17:23 | 81

AN UNEXPECTED SAVIOUR

The referee raises Gunther’s arm in victory and the new number one contender immediately asks for a microphone, despite the boos.

Gunther

Planning… planning is the first step on the road to success. And that’s why you people will never achieve anything in life. You Americans always rely on brute force to get what you want. But when you use your head, like I do [he points to his forehead], you put events in motion until you reach a point where only one outcome becomes possible. Take Herr Reigns, for instance. He’s been acting like a lion for a long time now and lions are lazy. I can afford to… spill the beans, to use one of your colourful expressions, because nothing can stop me from winning that title. And you… yes, all of you… you will help me. [the boos become even louder as Gunther lets a cunning smile err on his lips] I have listened to you, I have read the chats online: you’re fed up with Roman Reigns. You want him to ‘drop’ the title, as you say. Well, guess what? I’m your only hope.

Gunther takes a break to laugh at the thought.

Gunther

Yes, you will cheer me on at SummerSlam. Think about it for a minute. They have all tried and they have all failed. I’m the last one. I’m the only one. You can boo me all you want tonight but come SummerSlam, you will beg me to beat him. I’m looking forward to that and I’m looking forward to restoring some honour and order to that circus of show after that. Remember: there is no alternative. This is called efficiency. And now, dance, puppets, dance…

Gunther makes a little hand gesture suggesting he’s a puppeteer before leaving the ring under a chorus of boos. | 85

A DEBT TO SETTLE

The show is about to get off the air when Cole and McAfee are alerted of an incident backstage. McIntyre has been giving chase to Sikoa and a brawl is erupting. McIntyre beats him down with everything he can put his hands on, including a broomstick, until Logan Paul comes to rescue Sikoa and make it two on one. Sikoa makes it to the parking lot with McIntyre hot on his heels, growling ‘that’s the last time you cost me a match’. Sikoa gets powerbombed on a windscreen but Paul lands a superkick on McIntyre. As if things weren’t chaotic enough, Elias joins the fray and, finally, the camera fades to black as a horde of referees and officials rush to scene to take everyone apart. | 71

Show rating: 82

Last Edit: Feb 9, 2024 22:21:17 GMT 1 by mistersocko

mistersocko
Developmental Draw

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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Jan 30, 2024 23:50:42 GMT 1 Asaemon likes this

Quote

Post by mistersocko on Jan 30, 2024 23:50:42 GMT 1

Just a quick word to mention that since the posts in the thread are awfully long and far between, I've decided to add a short recap of the feuds at the beginning of each segment. I'm not sure it makes the read any easier but he has to be better than going through past shows looking for one specific piece of information. Of course, I could make the posts shorter but... that's kinda the whole concept of the diary. It would be like ECW without people in the crowd bringing PlayStations and waffle irons to be used as weapons, I guess.

mistersocko
Developmental Draw

I have made 60 posts
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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Jan 31, 2024 8:59:24 GMT 1 Asaemon and Be the Booker like this

Quote

Post by mistersocko on Jan 31, 2024 8:59:24 GMT 1

NEXT WEEK ON SMACKDOWN

Dominik Mysterio vs ??? (Edge will choose his opponent)

Damian Priest vs AJ Styles

Drew McIntyre and Elias vs Logan Paul and Solo Sikoa

SUMMERSLAM CARD (so far)

John Morrison & Otis vs Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens (RAW Tag Title match)

~~Cody Rhodes vs Bray Wyatt (?)~~

Asuka vs Charlotte

Rhea Ripley vs Becky Lynch (SD Women's Title match)

The Street Profits vs The Imperium (SD Tag Title match)

John Cena vs Bill Goldberg (?)

Roman Reigns vs Gunther (Universal Title match)

Bobby Lashley vs ??? (US Title match)

Liv Morgan and ??? vs Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler (Women's Title match)

mistersocko
Developmental Draw

I have made 60 posts
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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Feb 9, 2024 22:17:21 GMT 1 Asaemon likes this

Quote

Post by mistersocko on Feb 9, 2024 22:17:21 GMT 1

From Kent, WA

AUSTIN THEORY vs CODY RHODES

The show opens with the match set up last week between Cody Rhodes and Austin Theory. After giving up on challenging Bray Wyatt at SummerSlam, Rhodes was disrespected by Theory, leading up to this week’s confrontation. Making his way to the ring with Trish Stratus wrapped around his arm, Theory is stopped by a security member, who reminds him smoking is forbidden. Rhodes, for his part, is welcomed by the crowd.

They start by locking hands but Rhodes quickly gets the upper hand with a kick to the guts followed by a forearm to the side of the head. Theory drops to the floor and Rhodes cheekily tries to lock in a figure four early on but Theory quickly retreats to the ropes. Rhodes flashes him a smile but Theory doesn’t take too kindly to it. He hits back with a slide tackle, goes to the ropes and delivers a running snap DDT for the first pin attempt of the match. Rhodes kicks out but only earns a military press slam for his troubles. He ends the sequence with his RP1 and, this time, Rhodes finds it more difficult to kick out. Theory presses on with a series of strikes until Rhodes counters and sends him crashing down with a one-arm DDT. He picks him up and sends him to the ropes with an Irish whip but Theory evades his punch and counters with a shoulder tackle. He dispatches Rhoades into the corner and follows it up with a clotheline and a fallaway slam.

He covers him again but Rhodes keeps kicking out. Theory’s growing frustrated though and he’s now openly berating the referee for what he perceives as slow counts. His antics give Rhodes the time he needs to regroup and hit back with a dropkick from behind. Before Theory can react, he slaps in a double Boston leg crab in the middle of the ring. Theory crawls his way to the ropes and as the referee breaks the move, he tries to lunge in on Rhodes but gets caught by a scoop powerslam instead. Rhodes goes for the cover but Theory kicks out at two. They start all over again in the middle of the ring, Theory daring Rhodes to lock horns with him again but as soon as he gets closer, he delivers a kick to the midsection, followed by an ataxia. Rhodes looks stunned but he has enough ring awareness to roll out to avoid being pinned. Meanwhile, at ringside, Stratus is acting like a rabid dog and she orders Theory to keep pushing. As Rhodes gets back to his feet, he’s met with Theory’s suicide dive and both men go crashing against the barricade.

Rhodes is first to emerge from the fracas though and before Theory can react, he delivers and accordion rack backbreaker that sends him crashing on the concrete floor. He would have continued his assault, if Stratus didn’t start arguing with him. Their altercation ends with a slap across the face, allowing Theory to mount a comeback and hit a devastating a-town down outside the ring. Theory stops to kiss his girlfriend before he has to carry Rhodes’ dead weight back into the ring. He’s about to go for another cover but Rhodes surprises him with a rolling leg lock. Theory thrashes about, trying to get out of the moves, but Rhodes craftily transitions into an Alabama slam. He covers him but Theory has enough left in the tank to kick out again. A reverse double chicken wing doesn’t get him anything either and he has to release the hold anyway to chase off Stratus, who was yelling at him from the apron. Theory moves in from behind for a cutter but Rhodes senses him and catches him with a disaster kick.

He's setting himself up for a cross-Rhodes when… Brock Lesnar’s music hits. Lesnar darts to the ring, kicks Rhodes in the guts and delivers a massive F5, prompting the referee to grant him a DQ win.

Winner by disqualification: Cody Rhodes in 15:19 | 75

THIRD TIME'S THE CHARM

Lesnar completely dismantles Rhodes in the middle of the ring before moving him out for a series of German suplexes on the concrete floor. He stomps him a few times for good measure before grabbing a microphone.

Brock Lesnar

You thought you could get away with it, uh? You haven’t mentioned me once since King of the Ring! You think you’re too good for good ol’ Brock? I’ll beat some respect into you, punk.

Lesnar drags Rhodes backstage, occasionally beating him down again. He stops until he finds a place with a large number of crates, which he starts to pile up. He climbs them up, still dragging Rhodes behind him and delivers another F5, this time from nearly ten feet high. The official finally stop him there. Above the chaotic scene, Lesnar can be heard saying: ‘I’ll see you on Saturday, punk.’ | 70

TOUGH LOVE

Not too far from there, Dijak and Angelina Love are arguing again. Love’s decided to start a career as a manager in WWE but her first and, to date, only client’s matches have been few and far between and Dijak is far from happy. To make matter worse, Hit Row have been ridiculing her at every opportunity.

Dijak

Look Angelina, I don’t care if it’s a tag team match, a singles match or whatever but get me something on RAW. This is getting ridiculous!

Angelina Love

It’s not as easy as it looks! You saw me talking to Shane McMahon a few weeks ago. I tried to strike a deal with Strowman but it’s hard to make a name for yourself, here.

Dijak

If you can’t get me on TV this week… oh, no.

Dijak spots Hit Row walking in and they immediately start singing an improvised song about their current predicament. Unfortunately, we’ll never know what rhymes with ‘pitch’ and ‘sore’ because Braun Strowman grabs Ashante Adonis and Top Dollar and drags them to the ring, with Dijak, Love and B-FAB in tow. | 49

HIT ROW vs DIJAK AND BRAUN STROWMAN

Stroman throws both Adonis and Dolla in the ring. Dijak hops into his corner for what seems to be an impromptu tag match. A referee hurries in and the bell quickly rings.

Adonis has the unenviable honour of getting things underway. He immediately tries to run away but Strowman catches him and throws him backwards into the rope before he hits a powerful chokeslam. Top Dolla steps in to help his partner but he’s greeted by a shotgun dropkick that sends him crashing into the corner. Meanwhile at ringside, Love and B-FAB are trash-talking one another until the former sends the latter to the ground with a botox injection. Dijak stands in the middle of the chaos, rolling his eyes. Inside the ring, Adonis is back on his feet and he tries to get back on the front foot but Strowman grabs him again and throws him out of the ring with a Biel toss. The referee has absolutely no control on the action and Top Dolla takes this opportunity to land a couple of right hands on Strowman, who takes a step back. His assault is short-lived though, as Strowman blocks his next strike and hits back with a reverse chokeslam. Apparently bored of this one-man demolition derby, he covers him but the referee objects that Top Dolla isn’t the legal man.

Strowman growls something and the referee finds the argument compelling enough to start a count but Adonis somehow makes it back in time to break it. Everyone in the ring is temporarily distracted by the sound of B-FAB being thrown into the steel step but Strowman quickly get back to business with a big boot right in Adonis’ face. Dijak meekly offers to tag in but he’s completely ignored by his ‘partner’. Top Dolla is crushed with a corner splash, before Strowman turns his attention to Adonis again. A running powerslam plants him firmly into the mat and Strowman then dispatches Top Dolla with a monster bomb. He suddenly looks like he’s lot interest in the whole thing and walks away. Dijak discreetly pats his shoulder on the way out, making sure the referee notices the ‘tag’. He shows off his strength by lifting Top Dolla for a feast your eyes and covers him for the three count, despite the loud boos from the crowd.

Winners by pinfall: Dijak and Braun Strowman in 10:30 | 47

FIEND vs DEMON

Mercy the Buzzard (Baron Corbin), Sister Abigail (Nikki Cross) and Taylor Rotunda are trying to get Bray Wyatt out of his catatonic state. Uncle Howdy had been advocating for a return of the Fiend for some time and their relationship has reached a breaking point when Wyatt downright refused to summon ‘Him’. Since then, Finn Balor has revealed himself as a new Nemesis for the Wyatt 6 and Howdy has joined them. Rotunda has since rejoined RAW in a desperate attempt to get his brother out of this perilous situation.

Taylor Rotunda

I don’t know what else to say… I’ve tried everything.

Mercy the Buzzard

We should eat him and take his spot.

Sister Abigail

You don’t even know what you’re talking about, you balding idiot.

Mercy the Buzzard

Shut up, old hag.

Taylor Rotunda

Hey, aren’t you supposed to help him?

Sister Abigail

We’re supposed to help Him.

Mercy the Buzzard

We should eat him and get his gimmick for ourselves.

Sister Abigail

You don’t even know…

Taylor Rotunda

Alright, let’s… let’s try something else. Where is The Undertaker?

Finn Balor’s laughter is the only answer he gets. He walks in, accompanied by Indi Hartwell, King Cuerno and Uncle Howdy.

Finn Balor

Hey, if it isn’t my pal… what’s your name already? Ha ha, I’m pulling your leg, mate, don’t worry. Things aren’t looking very good for him [he points at Wyatt], are they? He’s made a lot of enemies over the years. So, Saturday’s as good a time as any to put him out of his misery, don’t you think? The Fiend versus the Demon. I think that little Vince McMahon would say: ‘That’s good shit, pal’ Shame he’s no longer around.

Taylor Rotunda

You would challenge him in his current state? You’re out of your damn mind!

Finn Balor

I don’t believe he’d put up much of a fight but if it makes you feel better to go down with the ship, we can challenge all of you. Maybe seeing you get crushed one after the other in front of his eyes will stir something in him. You never know.

Rotunda looks around him but Mercy and Abigail are expressionless. He’s about to say something when, suddenly, Wyatt gets up and speaks.

Bray Wyatt

To some people, life’s a bed of roses. They walk through time and everything they touch turns to gold and honey. I’ve never been one such people. I’ve made mistakes. When the sun was shining outside, I didn’t see the colours. I didn’t hear the birds. I saw only the shadows and felt the coolness of the darkness. Today, I wish things were differently but I realise that you can never walk that path backwards. It only leads to one place. When I tried to stop walking, I heard you calling my name. All of you. ‘Bray, we miss you.’ ‘Bray, we will forget you if you don’t hurry.’ Your prayers… became something… a force for lack of a better word and that force now resides inside Uncle Howdy. His wants, his needs are yours.

Balor is all smiles.

Finn Balor

Hey mate, I didn’t think you’d grace us with your presence…

Wyatt completely ignores him.

Bray Wyatt

I am back on that path where I met Him and I have no choice but to walk on. I discovered a lot of dark secrets along the way but that’s something for another time. It is not the Fiend that will face you, Finn Balor. It’s me, Bray Wyatt.

Finn Balor

Then, you will be annihilated and you will take your puppets and your brother down with you.

Bray Wyatt

I have a good idea of my destination now and I will do everything in my power to avoid that. Maybe I won’t be able to escape my fate but I will try.

Finn Balor

Saturday, you will realise you still have much to learn.

Balor, Hartwell, Cuerno and Howdy leave without a look back. | 83

LA KNIGHT vs JEFF HARDY

LA Knight’s been unhappy with the attention what he considers as ‘washed up’ stars have been getting lately. He first took out Shinsuke Nakamura, before targeting Jeff Hardy. He’s been badgering him with unpleasant comments about his age and his lifestyle, leading to tonight’s match.

There’s a lot of animosity in the air as the bell rings and both competitors immediately grab each other by the collar. Knight breaks the deadlock with a kick to the guts followed by a single underhook suplex. Hardy quickly gets back to his feet but Knight sends him crashing back down with a headbutt and slaps in a reverse Boston leg crab. Hardy wriggles free and kicks him in the back to get himself some space. He gets to the second rope for a crossbody but Knight sees him coming and catches him in mid-air to hit his gravy train. He covers him but Hardy kicks out at the last second. Knight tries to send him running with an Irish whip but Hardy counters. He sidesteps Knight, sneaks in behind him and grabs his hands for a split legged pin that Knight kicks out of fairly easily. Hardy keeps the pressure on with a series of kicks then locks in a side headlock and drags Knight to the top turnbuckle for a spectacular avalanche bulldog. He’s about to cover him but Knight delivers a BFT out of nowhere and Hardy drops in the middle of the ring like a ton of brick.

Knight rushes for the cover but Hardy is wisely rolling out of the ring. Knight’s looking very frustrated. He waits for Hardy to reappear but grows impatient and jumps outside the ring to continue this fight. Hardy’s waiting for him though and a dropkick into the steel steps stops Knight dead in his tracks. Hardy quickly moves to the top turnbuckle and connects with a diving crossbody. Hardy is staggering but he finds the strength to deliver a sit-out gourdbuster on the concrete floor, before retreating back inside the ring. Knights beats the count out, ducks a punch from Hardy and hits back with a BFT with both competitors looking exhausted in the middle of the ring. They painfully get back to a vertical base and start trading blows until Hardy finds an opening for a complete shot that gets him another near-fall. Knight strikes back and tries to throw Hardy outside again with a clotheline but Hardy hangs onto the rope. He tries to slingshot himself back in but Knight catches him with an elbow. He then slides under the ropes and uses Hardy’s dizziness to deliver an apron Death Valley driver.

He pushes him back in for the cover but, again, Hardy kicks out. Both men are running on fumes at this point. Hardy tries a small package but no cigar. They get up as fast they can but Hardy is just a little quicker which allows him to deliver a twist of fate. Instead of covering Knight, he goes outside, brings back a chair and sets up an avalanche gourdbuster on the steal chair. However, Knight has enough wits about him to struggle and he pushes Hardy onto the chair. He follows up with a diving elbow and a second BFT for the win.

Winner by pinfall: LA Knight in 12:31 | 63

CUSTOMER COMPLAINT

Meanwhile, backstage, Matt Riddle is absolutely furious at tonight’s main event… and he’s looking for Mankind to share his feeling. As usual, RAW’s General Manager can be found in some damp-looking cell in the arena’s basement.

Matt Riddle

Yo, Mankind! You there?

Mankind

Mankind is here. Mankind is there. Mankind is everywhere for without Mankind, this place wouldn’t exist. God created this space and it existed for thousands of years, until Mankind captured it and gave it form.

Matt Riddle

Rad! I see what you’ve been doing bro and I want you to know that I’m cool with that. But I need you to snap out of it for a moment because there’s something I want to talk about.

Mankind

You have Mankind’s attention.

Matt Riddle

I want to know who booked tonight’s main event! I don’t have an opponent for SummerSlam and you know I don’t mind showing what I can do but… Seth Freakin’ Rollins? Really?

Mankind

This place… is a place of suffering and pain, both physical and psychological. The people who come and watch this… they think we’re doing this for the money or the glory but it’s the other way around. We’re all here for the pain and the violence. But you, you haven’t yet learned your lesson. Tonight will change you, just like Mankind was changed a long time ago. When the show’s over, you will understand what Mankind is talking about but, by then, you won’t remember that conversation.

Matt Riddle

Sorry? I was looking at the ceiling. Did you notice there’s a leak there? You know, I tend to drift off when people talk for too long, man.

Mankind

IT’S NOT ‘MAN’, IT’S MANKIND!

Matt Riddle

Wow, don’t get your panties in a twist, man… kind. Well, if there’s no way around it, I’ll fight with Rollins but I wanted you that’s not cool, kind… man… mankind.

Riddle quickly retreats before Mankind loses control again. | 73

MUSTAFA ALI AND SHINSUKE NAKAMURA vs CEDRIC ALEXANDER AND SHELTON BENJAMIN

Shinsuke Nakamura has been the target of the Hurt Business attacks in recent weeks and, so far, he’s been able to count on Mustafa Ali’s back up at every turn. After a number of post-match attacks and ambush, all four men have decided to settle their differences in the ring.

Nakamura and Alexander get things started and, as usual, Nakamura doesn’t take things very seriously. He evades the first couple of contacts until, finally, they begin slugging it out in the middle of the ring. Alexander switches gears first and sends Nakamura running with an Irish whip. He then goes for a Michinoku driver but Nakamura counters with an armbar. Alexander crawls his way to the ropes and they resume their brawl on the apron until he takes the upper hand and grinds Nakamura’s face on the ropes. That gives him the time he needs for an apron slingshot flatline. Nakamura rolls back inside and Alexander tries to complete the sequence with a splash but Nakamura raises his knees and adds a sliding knee for the first pin attempt of the match. Alexander quickly crawls back to his corner to tag in Benjamin, who’d been playing casually with a nightstick since the bell rang. He immediately makes his presence felt with a cobra clutch backbreaker followed by a pinfall attempt. Nakamura’s getting restless. He manages to get some distance and goes for the Kinshasa but Benjamin sidesteps him and counters with a paydirt.

He goes for the cover and Ali has no choice but to break the count. Alexander rushes back in to start a brawl but Ali greets him with a tilt-a-whirl DDT. Nakamura takes advantage of the confusion to deliver an inverted exploder suplex on Benjamin before tagging out. They trade a few blows until Benjamin goes for a dragon whip out of nowhere but Ali evades and hits back with a Spanish fly. He quickly goes to the top turnbuckle and delivers a 054 that Benjamin has no answer for.

Winners by pinfall: Mustafa Ali and Shinsuke Nakamura in 7:52 | 61

MONDAY NIGHT DELIGHT

Meanwhile, backstage, John Morrison is… getting ready to leave with Maxxine?

John Morrion

[sucking on his huge cigar] As the CEO of MMM I’ve decided to grant myself and president Maxxine a night off. [flashing a smile at Maxxine] You only live once, after all. Think you can hold the fort without us, guys?

Otis

Sure, boss. What could happen anyway? It’s just Monday at the office.

Morrison seems sceptical though.

John Morrison

Ha ha. Yeah, sure. If someone calls for the modelling side of the agency, ask them to call back tomorrow, will you? Well, Max, I think that’s our cue to leave. I can’t say I’ve been impressed with this city so far but I’m sure will find something.

They leave and Otis, ma.ce and man.soor start playing cards for a few seconds until Mankind hobbles in.

Mankind

Of all the people I have to deal with here… that scumbag John Morrison is the one I hate most. HIS FACE IS AN INSULT TO MAKIND! HE HAS NO RIGHT TO WEAR THAT KIND OF FACE HERE!

ma.ce gets to the door and tries to calm him down but he only gets a mandible claw for his trouble.

Mankind

SHUT UP! Shut up! You don’t know what it’s like to see you parents wince every time they have a look at you. My wife wears a blindfold when I’m home! The only one who understood me was Unca Vince. I would have been just like him if not for… for… WAIT! WHERE’S MY EAR?! WHAT HAPPENED TO MY EAR?!

man.soor walks up to him and tries to calm him down but Mankind is in such a panic that he delivers him another mandible claw.

Mankind

Anyway… Owens and Zayn want to make your title match a SummerSlam a street fight. You, there, the ugly one. I like you. Find yourself two partners and we’ll have a match for that stipulation tonight.
He slams the door shut, leaving Otis to cast a hesitant glance at ma.ce and man.soor on the ground. | 65

PRINCE PUMA vs OMOS

Ranallo and Barrett remind us that this next bout will determine the challenger for Bobby Lashley’s United States Championship at SummerSlam. Omos and MVP have been pushing hard for that spot but since Prince Puma returned from an injury caused by Omos, he’s been a thorn in their side.

Omos looks confident as ever and as soon as the bell rings, he invites his opponent to take the first shot. Puma circles him for a few seconds, looking for an opening and finally goes for a high kick but Omos catches him and flips him over. Puma jumps back to his feet but a big foot sends him crashing back down again. Omos grinds his face against the ring, apparently just for fun, and even gets a quick count out of it. Puma kicks out but a gigantic body slam almost ends up with an early win for Omos. Puma is sent crashing into the corner and Omos goes for a corner back splash but Puma moves out of the way at the last second. Gathering his strength, he manages to land an unorthodox suplex to send Omos on the ground. He can’t even get close to pin him but as Omos tries to get back up, he delivers a twisting suplex. Omos’ neck is hurting and Konnan, at ringside, slides in a steel chair. The referee isn’t too happy with it but instead of trying to hit his opponent, Puma places the chair on the top turnbuckle. He runs along the rope, jumps in and hits a double moonsault, landing directly on Omos as he was getting up.

This time, Puma not only gets a count but he comes very close to winning. Omos does a good job of keeping him at arm’s length while he recovers though and when a frustrated Puma finally goes for broke, he’s greeted by a two-handed chokeslam. The match could have stopped here but Puma wisely rolls out of the ring. Omos follows him but Konnan gets in his way, buying his protégé some precious seconds. When Omos finally reaches him, Puma gets the drop on him with an acrobatic kick to the head. Oddly enough, MVP ignores the action at ringside to get into the referee’s face. That’s because Apollo Crews comes out of the crowd to hit a diving blockbuster on an unsuspecting Puma. Omos tosses him back into the ring and delivers a massive headbutt before covering him. Puma kicks out but barely this time. He evades a couple of vicious stomps and quickly climbs the top turnbuckle for a missile dropkick that leaves Omos staggering. Omos charges back on but he’s caught with the recoil and, this time, he falls flat on his back.

He's about to hit the 630 senton to finish the job but MVP distracts the referee again as Crews pushes Puma. Omos seizes the opportunity and connects with a pendulum backbreaker but he rushes it and Puma manages doesn’t take the brunt of it. He goes for the KO punch but Puma dodges, prompting Crews to take matters in his own hand. He hits a springboard dropkick… but accidentally catches Omos, who goes to the ground. Puma quickly dispatches him with a clotheline over the top rope and, this time, nobody’s there to prevent him from hitting the 630 senton for the win.

Winner by pinfall: Prince Puma in 11:38 | 60

ANOTHER BREAK UP

Meanwhile backstage, Johnny Gargano almost bumps into Candice LeRae. Since Chelsea Green revealed she’s pregnant and Gargano is the father, the two of them have been (understandably) at odds. LeRae assaulted Green, while Gargano has been embroiled in a feud with Los Lotharios and his former partner Dexter Lumis, who criticised his recent actions.

Johnny Gargano

Oh. Hey, sorry, I didn’t hear you coming.

Cadice LeRae

It’s fine. No harm done.

They look at each other awkwardly for a few seconds. Gargano is first to break the silence.

Johnny Gargano

You… you’ve changed something. Your hair, maybe?

Candice LeRae

Yeah, Dolph says it makes me look younger.

Johnny Gargano

If Dolph says so…

Candice LeRae

Forgive me if you don’t find me as hot as your bimbo! But some people actually appreciate what I have to offer.

Johnny Gargano

Don’t… ok, let’s not go there. Forget I said anything. It’s cool. How’s Quill doing?

Candice LeRae

Typical. Now you remember you have a son, don’t you? It’s a shame you didn’t think about him when you were…

Johnny Gargano

Stop acting like a bitter hag! Can’t we have a civil conversation, like normal people?

Candice LeRae

Funny how, as soon as I mention that people find me attractive, you have to mention our boy. It says a lot about the way you think, Johnny.

Johnny Gargano

What did you want me to say? I can’t ask you a question about our son?

Candice LeRae

He misses his father, if you want to know. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have to go and help my team prepare for tonight’s match.

Johnny Gargano

Look, Candice…

Gargano shakes his head in disbelief as LeRae walks away angrily. He sighs and leaves without seeing that Lumis had been hidden behind a corner, listening to their conversation. | 57

INDI HARTWELL AND PIPER NIVEN vs CANDICE LERAE AND SISTER ABIGAIL (NIKKI CROSS)

Manipulated by Sister Abigail, Candice LeRae has been interfering in Piper Niven’s matches [mostly on Main Event] in recent weeks. When Niven said it was time to put up or shut up, LeRae panicked but Abigail promised to help her. Little did she know that Indi Hartwell would be there to even the numbers.

Niven and LeRae get things started, despite the latter’s pleas to her twisted mentor. Turning her back on Niven proves to be a dangerous idea though, as she gets speared as soon as the bell rings. She goes for an early cover but LeRae manages to escape. She doesn’t stay up for long though, as Niven connects with a running crossbody seconds later but, again, LeRae kicks out. Niven picks up LeRae and sends her crashing into the corner with an Irish whip. She lands a couple of punches but Hartwell tags herself in. Niven isn’t too pleased about it as she reluctantly leaves the ring. Hartwell picks up LeRae, sends her into the ropes and hits a vicious clotheline. However, she doesn’t seem to care much about her opponent: her eyes are fixed on Abigail. She tosses LeRae to her corner, leaving her with no choice but to tag in, which she does reluctantly. Abigail ducks a couple of big right hands and hits a snap suplex for the cover but Hartwell easily kicks out. She goes to the ropes for momentum but gets caught by a back elbow from Hartwell.

It's obvious that she wants nothing to do with her and before Hartwell can even cover her, she rolls out of the ring and makes her way backstage, ignoring LeRae’s pleas for help. Hartwell is hot on her heels though, leaving Niven and LeRae on their own. LeRae tries is now pleading with Niven to spare her but she’s not willing to listen. LeRae evades a couple of hard punches, sneaks in behind her and shows off her strength by delivering a turnbuckle suplex to send her crashing against the post. She’s got nothing left after that though and she can’t even more Niven for a cover. Instead, Niven pulls her forth to send her head first into the post, before squashing her with a cannonball senton. LeRae kicks out of the pinfall but Niven knows there’s only one way this match can end. She taunts the public, allowing LeRae to land another suplex. She continues working on Niven’s neck with an inverted frankensteiner and, suddenly, the match isn’t such a forgone conclusion. High on adrenaline, she slaps a side headlock and sets up Niven on the second rope for another suplex but she gets caught by and elbow to the side of the head and drops to the ground.

Niven hits the viper bomb and, just like that, it’s all over.

Winners by pinfall: Indi Hartwell and Piper Niven in 10:04 | 55

COME AND GET ME

Cathy Kelley is ready for an interview backstage.

Cathy Kelley

Please, welcome my guest at this time, Zoey Stark. Zoey, it seems you’re having a difficult time moving on from your recent loss to Emma.

Zoey Stark

What are you talking about? That fluke? That wasn’t a loss. Come on! I obliterated her from start to finish and she… I mean, she didn’t even do it on purpose. You have to actually do something for it to be considered a win. I wiped the floor with that old b…

Before she can finish her sentence, Emma hits her straight in the face with a mean superkick. She’s got a leather strap in her hand starts whipping Stark around, while she’s desperately looking for a shelter. Stark throws everything she can put her hands on at her: food, glasses, tape even a hammer but Emma is relentless. Finally, Stark reaches a staircase and stumbles down the flight of stairs. Emma returns to the interview spot and grabs the microphone.

Emma

Since you want a rematch so bad, Zoey, why don’t you face me next week on RAW? And please, bring some spare underwear this time. You’re a disgrace.

Kelley watches her with an embarrassed look on her face as she storms off. | 38

LOOKING AHEAD

Next up is a series of graphics showing the RAW matches at SummerSlam.

Bobby Lashley vs Prince Puma

Mauro Ranallo

Ever since capturing the United States Championship from Austin Theory at WrestleMania, Bobby Lashley has been on a tear against some of WWE’s most gigantic superstars but the Almighty faces a different kind of challenge at SummerSlam in the form of Prince Puma.

Wade Barrett

Puma will be relying on his uncanny agility and his mentor’s wit to put a dent in Lashley’s ambitions but I don’t think he has anything in his arsenal that could really hurt him.

Bray Wyatt vs ‘The Demon’ Finn Balor

Mauro Ranallo

In a twisted mirror image of a match-up that happened six years ago at SummerSlam, Bray Wyatt will be taking on Finn Balor’s hellish alter ego. Wyatt has vowed not to call on The Fiend but is he enough to stop The Demon’s unbeaten run in WWE?

Wade Barrett

Considering he was in a catatonic state two hours ago, I think the answer’s pretty obvious. A better question would be, what will be left of Wyatt after the Demon’s had his way with him.

Asuka vs Charlotte Flair

Mauro Ranallo

Asuka has been dominating the women’s scene on RAW since she won the belt from Bianca Belair at WrestleMania but Charlotte went through a gruelling tournament to earn a shot at this title. Who will come out on top on Saturday?

Wade Barrett

Charlotte’s got the experience to reign supreme again. Does she have the will, that’s another matter. Asuka’s hardly been tested as a champion but when she has, she’s relied on her green mist to save her bacon. I think Charlotte’s crafty enough to avoid that trap. | 69

MMM vs CHAD GABLE, KEVIN OWENS AND SAMI ZAYN

Ranallo and Barrett remind us of the stakes: if MMM win, the SummerSlam match will be a regular tag team match; otherwise, the challengers will face the champions in a street fight.

man.soor and Kevin Owens get things started. Owens is still conferring with his partners when the bell rings and man.soor immediately takes the advantage with a cheap shot. He lands a couple of strikes and sends his opponent crashing with a suplex in the middle of the ring. As soon as he gets back to a vertical base, Owens is greeted by a diving clotheline. Owens tries to hit back but man.soor ducks another shot and slaps in a side headlock, which he transitions into a tornado DDT for the first pinfall attempt of the match-up. Owens’ looking frustrated but man.soor’s too fast for him. He presses on and tries to send him out with a clotheline over the top rope, but Owens hangs on. man.soor joins him, kicks him in the guts and connects with an apron falcon arrow. Owens apparently hurt his back and man.soor’s happy to wait for a count out victory. It turns out to be a poor decision though, as Owens not only beats the count but also tags in Zayn. Zayn connects with a couple of clothelines and delivers a push-up dropkick on a flat-footed man.soor.

man.soor kicks out of the pin but decides it’s time to let someone else do the heavy lifting. He tags Otis, who ignores a couple of right hands from Zayn, and hits an exploder suplex for starters. Team MMM are cruising now but instead of gathering momentum, Otis strikes a few poses in the middle of the ring. When he turns his attention to Zayn, his headbutt attempt is countered into a blue thunder bomb. However, this took a huge chunk of Zayn’s energy. He can’t even cover Otis and blindly tags in Gable, who is set to face his former ‘number one guy’. Gable climbs to the top turnbuckle and connects with a missile dropkick but when he has to pin his friend, he hesitates. Otis has no such curtesy: he locks in a bear hug on his former mentor which he turns into a pop-up body toss. He’s about to cover him but thinks better of it and tags in ma.ce. Gable kicks out and hits back with a bridging Saito suplex but ma.ce escapes just in time. They trade blows for a short time, until ma.ce sends Gable crashing into his corner. Owens takes the opportunity to tag in and delivers a series of released German suplex on ma.ce.

ma.ce doesn’t know where is he but he still kicks out of Owens’ pin. Otis is brought back in. He hits a couple of shoulder tackles before an Irish whip sends Owens into the corner, where his sternum hits the turnbuckle. That’s the opening Otis needed to land his dozer bomb but Zayn comes in to break the tag. He doesn’t wait for Otis to turn around and connects with a helluva kick into the corner. Otis drops besides Owens but Zayn doesn’t get a chance to celebrate: as he turns back, he walks straight into a man.soor superkick. Zayn drops on the floor and man.soor hits a diving moonsault. He’s about to get up but Gable flies across the ring and connects with a diving headbutt. Zayn and man.soor roll out just as the referee decides it’s time to restore some order. Gable and ma.ce drag their respective partners to their corners to tag in. ma.ce immediately goes for his finisher. He hoists Gable on his shoulders but Gable wriggles free and pushes him into the corner for his American automatic. The referee makes the count and Gable, Zayn and Owens can celebrate.

Winners by pinfall: Chad Gable, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn in 13:55 | 70

OLD ACQUAINTANCES

After the break, Triple H is out to oversee the contract signing between Asuka and Charlotte Flair for the RAW Women’s Championship.

Triple H

As you already know, this place will soon undergo some major changes – for the better, we hope. But as you also know, wrestling is all about finding the right balance between tradition and innovation. A lot of things have changed when I look back and think about the first time I step foot in the squared circle. However, these… evolutions, if you will, would mean nothing if we didn’t show the proper respect to those who came before us. We like to try new things, we create innovative concepts but they’re only a means to an end and that end is to shine the best light on some amazing rivalries and lineages. The woman who’s about to join me in the ring is the symbol of one such lineage. Without further ado, please welcome Charlotte Flair!

Charlotte makes her way to the ring and takes place at the table without waiting for an invitation.

Triple H

Charlotte also has a lot of history with the current RAW Women’s champion, a woman whose undefeated streak she ended at WrestleMania 34. Ladies and gentlemen, I give you… Asuka!

Asuka comes out in an extravagant outfit and her new, ‘evil clown’ face paint.

Triple H

Ladies, the floor is yours.

Charlotte stops looking at her nails.

Charlotte Flair

Are we done? I don’t think there’s much to say here. I’m the superior athlete, I’ve proved as much on many occasions. I’ve jumped through all the loops and now it’s time for me to collect. As far as I’m concerned, it’s just a formality. Asuka’s just a one-trick pony. When I killed her streak, I killed her career.

Asuka

Watashi o kowagaranainara,-sō subekidesu.

Charlotte Flair

Yeah, yeah. We’ve heard that before. You’ve been there for years and you can’t even learn the language. Pathetic. Your act doesn’t fool anyone anymore.

Asuka

Sore wa kōide wa arimasen.

Charlotte Flair

You do realise nobody understands a word you say, don’t you?

Asuka

Nobody… is ready…

Charlotte Flair

… for Asuka. We know. Are you going to sign that contract or are we going to keep waiting for long. YOUR QUEEN IS BORED.

Charlotte grabs the pen, quickly signs her own papers and throws the pen in Asuka’s face who isn’t smiling anymore.

Asuka

Sore o surubeki janakattadesu.

Asuka jumps on her feet and locks her eyes into Charlotte’s for a few seconds. She looks ready to ready to give up when she suddenly launches a full onslaught. Charlotte weathers the storm and grabs Asuka’s legs before she powerbombs her through the table.

Charlotte Flair

And don’t forget to sign.

She leaves without a look back, while Triple H helps Asuka get out of the debris. | 76

LOS LOTHARIOS vs DEXTER LUMIS AND DOLPH ZIGGLER vs DIY

Humberto, Lumis and Gargano get things started and, surprisingly, Humberto and Lumis team up to throw Gargano out of the ring right from the get-go. As soon as he’s out of the way, Humberto goes for the backstabber but Lumis sees him coming and counters with a back elbow and a high knee. He goes back to his corner to tag in Ziggler but Gargano takes this opportunity to hit the one final beat on a defenceless Humberto. He goes for the cover but Angel breaks the count just in time. Ziggler dispatches Gargano with a neckbreaker and pins Humberto, who kicks out at two. He doesn’t get a second chance as Gargano turns him inside out with a vicious clotheline. He quickly makes it to the top rope and catches Humberto with a diving hurricanrana as soon as he gets back up. Humberto is sent flying across the ring, giving Angel an opportunity to tag in. He ducks a couple of blows from Gargano and connects with a superkick for the cover. Before he can go for the cover, Ziggler, always the opportunist, hits him with a zig zag of his own.

Angel looks done for but Ciampa comes in to break the count. He tags himself in and hits a discus lariat on Ziggler for another near-fall. Garza’s right behind though and he delivers an inverted belly to belly lungblower to stop him dead in his tracks. Garza was running on fumes though and he crawls back to his corner as soon as he’s done to tag out. Meanwhile, Lumis is desperately calling for a tag. Ziggler doesn’t notice and tries to take advantage of the situation with a sleeper hold on Ciampa but Humberto breaks the hold when he starts stomping them both. Ziggler gets up and sends him away with an Irish whip but Humberto counters with a handspring back elbow. With both opponents down, Humberto decides it’s time for him to go for his rounding moonsault but Ciampa raises his knees at the last second. The action continues in the ring but nobody manages to get any momentum going because of the ambient chaos. LeRae’s arrival at ringside is almost lost on all competitors, except for Lumis who leaves the apron to have a talk with her. They exchange a few words but she slaps him in the face and leaves with an angry look on her face. Lumis doesn’t say a word but he steps in the ring, walks straight to Ziggler and delivers the silence on his partner, who quickly passes out.

Humberto and Ciampa look dumbfounded. Lumis turns the former around and applies a belly to back suplex, followed by a leg drop. Ciampa’s regained his spirits, he rushes towards him but Lumis catches him with a thunderous spinebuster. Gargano gets a faceful of big boot as he’s about to step in while Angel also gets a silence for his troubles. Lumis then makes his way to back without a look back. In the end, Ciampa is the first to emerge. He quickly covers Humberto and gets the three count to put an end to this bizarre match-up.

Winners by pinfall: Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano in 11:11 | 59

UNHAPPY BRO

Backstage, Triple H is talking on the phone when Shane McMahon and Bronson Reed walk right up to him.

Triple H

Yes… I know, I know… Wait, can I call you back later? Hey, Shane! It’s nice to see you! [he gives his brother-in-law a hug]

Shane McMahon

You spend too much time with the bigwigs in Stanford, Hunter. Soon, you won’t remember what it’s like on the frontline!

Triple H

Ha ha, don’t worry about that, it won’t happen. Speaking of bigwigs… You know they’re not too happy with you, Shane, don’t you?

Shane McMahon

And why is that?

Triple H

Come on, don’t make me spell it out for you. Your whole Kiss My Ass Club revival isn’t their cup of tea. I’m not telling you anything you don’t know.

Shane McMahon

Why should I care?

Triple H

Well… metrics show that your segments score pretty low on all demographics, so… it looks like it’s not anybody’s cup of tea, to be honest.

Shane McMahon

Marketing, what do they know, eh? Wonder how you’d have score if they had such things during the Monday Night Wars!

Triple H

Pretty well, actually. Look, Shane, I get your point, Steph gets your point, we all get it. But maybe you should… I don’t know, find your own shtick.

Shane McMahon

The whole point is to honour dad’s legacy. I’m not sure I understand where this is going…

Triple H

Let me put it that way: at the time, Vince had the luxury of answering to one person and one person only, himself. We don’t have that luxury and some people in Stanford and elsewhere have asked me whether we’re running a serious business or if they’re giving their money away to entertain the McMahons.

Shane McMahon

You mean you would let that scumbag Breakker disrespect me and our family?

Triple H

You’re missing the point. It’s not the 90s anymore. Vince is a lot of things but above all, he’s a shrewd businessman. He wouldn’t let his feelings get in the way of what’s best for business.
If looks could kill, Triple H would be dead right now.

Shane McMahon

Ok, let me think about it, Hunter. Ok? I need time to process all that…

Triple H

I’ll buy you as much as I can but heed my advice, please, Shane.

Shane McMahon

Hey, thanks for the heads-up, bro! Don’t worry.

They hug again and Triple H walks away. Shane McMahon’s expression turns dark as he mutters to Reed: ‘We will have to find a way to get rid of him…’ | 65

MATT RIDDLE vs SETH FREAKIN ROLLINS

For once, Riddle doesn’t look very happy to be here, which is a testament of the heat he has with his opponent. Rollins, meanwhile, seems to take this as a game. He keeps trying to get under Riddle’s skin, cackling like an old hag every time Riddle loses his cool.

The match finally gets underway and Rollins is first on the offensive with a series of waistlock takedowns, followed by a skywalker. Riddle’s all business though and he hits back with an exploder suplex and a powerbomb for the first count of the match-up. Rollins gets back to his feet and offers to shake hands but when Riddle reluctantly accepts, he gets a kick in the guts and a God’s last gift as a reward. Riddle kicks out at two and regains the upper hand with a series of punches straight to Rollins’ face. A burning hammer gets him another count but it’s way too early for Rollins to give up. He goes for another powerbomb after that but Rollins counters and hits back with a Pelé kick. With Riddle momentarily stunned, he sets up a buckle bomb and sends him crashing against the post. At this point though, Rollins seems to have no interest in ending the contest or pinning his opponent. He just prances around the ring, waiving his finger in an attempt to get the crowd to ‘sing his song’.

Riddle takes advantage of his lack of focus with a double axehandle to the back of the head. Rollins drops like a ton of bricks and Riddle slaps in his bromission. Rollins is writhing in pain but, fortunately for him, he’s close enough to the ropes to break the hold. Riddle is looking increasingly nervous and angry. He starts arguing with the referee and Rollins takes this opportunity to strike back with a slingshot springboard high knee. Riddle’s staggered but he won’t go down. Rollins grabs him by the back of the head and grinds his face against the ropes before hitting an F5 in the middle of the ring. This time, he does go for the cover but Riddle kicks out at the very last second. Rollins stomps him but Riddle finally blocks him and sends his crashing head first into the corner. Riddle uses this time to regroup but Rollins quickly comes back, looking for an opening. They jockey for position for a while, until Rollins hits a chinlock and uses his momentum for a rope walk skywalker.

Instead of going for the cover, the unties the protection on the top turnbuckle. Riddle stumbles back in and tries to stop him but he finds himself on the receiving end of a superkick. Rollins goes for the cover but, again, no cigar. He ducks a couple of shots from Riddle and sets up his paroxysm but as he locks in his inverted DDT, Riddle leans on his waist and connects with a Pelé kick of his own, right on the bridge of the nose. Rollins is staggered and Riddle decides now’s a good time to trade blows with him in the middle of the ring. Riddle indeed takes the upper hand and sends his opponent running with an Irish whip. However, Rollins ducks his next strike and counters with a stunner. Rollins can’t get the pin but he continues to kick him, until Riddle manages to get back up. He blocks a couple of kicks and hits back with an exploder suplex out of nowhere. Rollins then misses with a couple of clothelines but he manages to sweep off Riddle’s feet. He goes for a running shooting star press but Riddle moves out of the way and quickly delivers a BTS.

He's about to pin his opponent when… Randy Orton’s music hits. Riddle looks around everywhere but no-one comes out. When he turns around, Rollins is there to greet him with a superkick straight in the mush. He goes for yet another cover but Riddle kicks out again. It’s Rollins’ turn to lose his temper: he hits a pedigree but still Riddle won’t go down. Rollins is throwing a tantrum in the middle of the ring and Riddle goes for broke: he tries to deliver his bro derek but Rollins is too lively. Riddle eats a couple of knees to the face and has to release him. Rollins thanks him with another superkick followed by the curb stomp for the three count.

Winner by pinfall: Seth Freakin Rollins in 17:56 | 82

A FRIENDSHIP TURNED SOUR

Rollins dances his way backstage while Riddle is left kneeling in the middle of the ring, trying to figure out what happened. Suddenly, Randy Orton appears on the titantron. He’s dressed in plain clothes, sitting at a table in a living room. He turns to the camera.

Randy Orton

Hey, Riddle, can you hear me? Does this place ring a bell? It should.

A female voice can be heard asking Orton whether he wants some sugar with his coffee. He declines.

Randy Orton

[turning back to face the camera] What an horrible little place you have here, Riddle. All this surfer’s crap… I almost ran away when your girlfriend opened the door.

Matt Riddle

What are you doing here, Randy?

Randy Orton

Speaking of which… she’s not the sharpest knife in the kitchen, is she? I think she really didn’t catch on the latest… evolution of our relationship. You should talk to her, Riddle. Communication is an important part of any relationship. Even ours. I should have told you I arranged tonight’s match with that idiot Rollins, for instance.

Rollins, who’s still walking up the ramp, makes faces, looking hurt at Orton’s comments.

Matt Riddle

I don’t understand. Why did you do that, Randy?

Randy Orton

Yes, I’d like some pie with that, please. [turning back again] You still don’t get it, do you? I want to face you at SummerSlam, Riddle.

Matt Riddle

What? Come on, bro, if that’s about last week’s match, I’m sure we can talk it through…

Randy Orton

How many RKOs do you have to take to get this through your thick skull? I don’t want to be your partner, I want to make you suffer. I want to destroy you.

Matt Riddle

It’s the anger talking through you, Randy. Stay where you are, I’ll take a plane and we’ll talk…

Randy Orton

No, we won’t. Here’s what’s going to happen though. That birdbrain broad of yours told me a moment ago that she’s pregnant. I’m no doctor but I have a feeling a punt in her guts wouldn’t be very good for your unborn child, ‘pal’. If you don’t agree to a match right here, right now I guarantee you that kid will never get to see the light of day.

Matt Riddle

My God, you’re crazy! No, you wouldn’t do that. You’d go to jail.

Randy Orton

GIVE ME WHAT I WANT! [turning around again] No, don’t worry, I was on the phone. Drop your hippie bullshit. You only get one last chance. Give me my match or I promise you Kimberley or whatever her name is will take a nasty fall down the stairs.

Matt Riddle

You son of a bitch! Alright, you’re on! You’ve got your precious match but I will make you regret each and every one of your threats, you bastard. You’ve gone too far! Saturday at SummerSlam, I’ll make sure you never threaten anyone ever again!

Randy Orton

For now, just pray that the pie’s to my taste. I have a poor record with arson. Just ask Bray Wyatt, I’m not a very good guest.

The camera is turned off and the show goes off the air with Riddle, alone in the ring, screaming Orton’s name while Rollins continues to make silly faces. | 88

Show rating: 80

Last Edit: Feb 9, 2024 22:19:08 GMT 1 by mistersocko

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WWE 2023 - A much darker place Feb 9, 2024 22:24:10 GMT 1 Asaemon likes this

Quote

Post by mistersocko on Feb 9, 2024 22:24:10 GMT 1

SUMMERSLAM CARD (so far)

John Morrison & Otis vs Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens (RAW Tag Title match) street fight

~~Cody Rhodes vs Bray Wyatt (?)~~

Asuka vs Charlotte (RAW Women's Title match)

Rhea Ripley vs Becky Lynch (SD Women's Title match)

The Street Profits vs The Imperium (SD Tag Title match)

John Cena vs Bill Goldberg

Roman Reigns vs Gunther (Universal Title match)

Bobby Lashley vs Prince Puma (US Title match)

Liv Morgan and ??? vs Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler (Women's Title match)

Cody Rhodes vs Brock Lesnar

Matt Riddle vs Randy Orton

Bray Wyatt vs 'The Demon' Finn Balor