Post by mistersocko on Apr 7, 2024 17:58:18 GMT 1
From Waco, TX
COLE AND MCAFEE INTRODUCTION
Michael Cole: Welcome everyone to Friday Night SmackDown, live from Waco, Texas! I’m Michael Cole and this is my broadcast colleague, Pat McAfee. Very busy show again tonight, Pat, but maybe we should start with the breaking news.
Pat McAfee: Dire news indeed. In case you didn’t know, Roman Reigns has been drafted to Monday Night RAW after losing the Universal Championship at SummerSlam so someone had to move in the opposite direction. We don’t know yet who was involved in the decision but Cody Rhodes was chosen.
Michael Cole: Cody Rhodes was supposed to be on the show tonight and address is current situation. However, we’ve been told earlier today that Cody was attacked last night while attending a private party in a San Antonio nightclub. Early reports suggest that he was stabbed and was quickly taken to a medical facility. We tried to reach him before the show but, as you can imagine, the doctors want him to rest but we will give you an update as soon as we get new information.
Pat McAfee: It’s a… it’s a very disturbing situation but, of course, we’re all wishing him a speedy recovery.
Michael Cole: I think I speak for everyone here when I say that if Cody’s family need anything, all they have to do is ask.
Pat McAfee: It’s not easy to move on after such an announcement but, as you said earlier Michael, we’ve got a lot of action tonight and two newly crowned champions.
Michael Cole: Gunther and Becky Lynch will be here live and we’ve been told that WWE Hall of Famer JBL has an announcement of his own. Also, ‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio will be in action tonight, less than a week after failing to take the Intercontinental Championship away from Edge.
Pat McAfee: A lot of people seem to think that SummerSlam marked the end of a cycle. If it did, I’m excited to see what the future holds!
Michael Cole: Maybe we should also address the elephant in the room… Pat, what were you thinking when you interfered with Roman Reigns’ match at SummerSlam?
Pat McAfee: Ah, it looks like it will have to wait… Look who’s here! The new WWE Universal champion… Gunther! | 67
Pat McAfee: Dire news indeed. In case you didn’t know, Roman Reigns has been drafted to Monday Night RAW after losing the Universal Championship at SummerSlam so someone had to move in the opposite direction. We don’t know yet who was involved in the decision but Cody Rhodes was chosen.
Michael Cole: Cody Rhodes was supposed to be on the show tonight and address is current situation. However, we’ve been told earlier today that Cody was attacked last night while attending a private party in a San Antonio nightclub. Early reports suggest that he was stabbed and was quickly taken to a medical facility. We tried to reach him before the show but, as you can imagine, the doctors want him to rest but we will give you an update as soon as we get new information.
Pat McAfee: It’s a… it’s a very disturbing situation but, of course, we’re all wishing him a speedy recovery.
Michael Cole: I think I speak for everyone here when I say that if Cody’s family need anything, all they have to do is ask.
Pat McAfee: It’s not easy to move on after such an announcement but, as you said earlier Michael, we’ve got a lot of action tonight and two newly crowned champions.
Michael Cole: Gunther and Becky Lynch will be here live and we’ve been told that WWE Hall of Famer JBL has an announcement of his own. Also, ‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio will be in action tonight, less than a week after failing to take the Intercontinental Championship away from Edge.
Pat McAfee: A lot of people seem to think that SummerSlam marked the end of a cycle. If it did, I’m excited to see what the future holds!
Michael Cole: Maybe we should also address the elephant in the room… Pat, what were you thinking when you interfered with Roman Reigns’ match at SummerSlam?
Pat McAfee: Ah, it looks like it will have to wait… Look who’s here! The new WWE Universal champion… Gunther! | 67
AN IRON FIST IN AN IRON GLOVE
Ludwig Kaiser: Ladies and gentlemen… I demand all your gratitude for your new Universal champion… der Ring General, Gunther!
Michael Cole: Imperium is out in full force tonight. Kaiser and Vinci are here and so is Valhalla, who was… captured, for lack of a better word, at the end of Imperium’s feud with the Viking Raiders and who has since been serving as Gunther’s personal fortune-teller.
Pat McAfee: Gunther’s expression is as stern as ever.
Gunther: I stand here tonight as your Universal champion. I did what no-one else before had been able to do in years: I took that belt away from Roman Reigns. I have a lot to tell you tonight but, first, there’s a matter I wish to address.
Ludwig Kaiser: Mein General, I apologise. We failed…
Gunther: I’m not talking about you, I’m talking about her. Come closer, woman.
Michael Cole: That’s… that’s unexpected. What does Valhalla has to do with anything?
Gunther: For months now, you told me of the bad tides and dark omens coming my way. And look at me now. Who would have thought? Ha, ha!
Michael Cole: OH MY GOD! Gunther just slapped Valhalla right across the face!
Pat McAfee: What the… he knocked her out cold! Is he crazy or what?
Gunther: There will be changes around here. For starters, those who can’t serve me correctly will be punished. Look at that savage. She claimed she could see the future, my future, but her powers were nothing next to my ability to keep ahead of my opponent. Fool. Let it be a lesson for everyone out here and in the back: if you don’t perform as expected, there will be consequences.
Pat McAfee: What kind of crap is that? He just hit a woman on national television!
Michael Cole: Do you want to step in to tell that to his face?
Pat McAfee: Er… maybe later. But how is any of this different from Reigns’ regime?
Gunther: Now that this is out of the way, I claim full control of this show, by right of this title. I will make the matches and assess individual performances. This show has been a shambles for far too long. I intend to run a smoother operation.
Michael Cole: What is on about? He’s not General Manager, he’s the champion.
Pat McAfee: Talk about delusions of grandeur… he’s been champion for less than a week!
Gunther: I will have the proper facilities installed in the skybox next week, so that I can watch the matches and decide who deserves to be part of my show and who doesn’t. I know American people have a short attention span so let me sum up my speech in three words: you will obey. I will not tolerate any insubordination, impudence or cheekiness. This Roman Reigns fellow was way too lazy and lenient. I will teach you what wrestling is all about.
Michael Cole: Thank God, they’re leaving! He’s completely lost it.
Pat McAfee: They will cross Drew McIntyre on their way out. I can’t imagine he’ll be too pleased with what he’s heard.
Michael Cole: Yes, ladies and gentlemen, our first match of the evening will pit Drew McIntyre against Logan Paul for the second time… | 82
Michael Cole: Imperium is out in full force tonight. Kaiser and Vinci are here and so is Valhalla, who was… captured, for lack of a better word, at the end of Imperium’s feud with the Viking Raiders and who has since been serving as Gunther’s personal fortune-teller.
Pat McAfee: Gunther’s expression is as stern as ever.
Gunther: I stand here tonight as your Universal champion. I did what no-one else before had been able to do in years: I took that belt away from Roman Reigns. I have a lot to tell you tonight but, first, there’s a matter I wish to address.
Ludwig Kaiser: Mein General, I apologise. We failed…
Gunther: I’m not talking about you, I’m talking about her. Come closer, woman.
Michael Cole: That’s… that’s unexpected. What does Valhalla has to do with anything?
Gunther: For months now, you told me of the bad tides and dark omens coming my way. And look at me now. Who would have thought? Ha, ha!
Michael Cole: OH MY GOD! Gunther just slapped Valhalla right across the face!
Pat McAfee: What the… he knocked her out cold! Is he crazy or what?
Gunther: There will be changes around here. For starters, those who can’t serve me correctly will be punished. Look at that savage. She claimed she could see the future, my future, but her powers were nothing next to my ability to keep ahead of my opponent. Fool. Let it be a lesson for everyone out here and in the back: if you don’t perform as expected, there will be consequences.
Pat McAfee: What kind of crap is that? He just hit a woman on national television!
Michael Cole: Do you want to step in to tell that to his face?
Pat McAfee: Er… maybe later. But how is any of this different from Reigns’ regime?
Gunther: Now that this is out of the way, I claim full control of this show, by right of this title. I will make the matches and assess individual performances. This show has been a shambles for far too long. I intend to run a smoother operation.
Michael Cole: What is on about? He’s not General Manager, he’s the champion.
Pat McAfee: Talk about delusions of grandeur… he’s been champion for less than a week!
Gunther: I will have the proper facilities installed in the skybox next week, so that I can watch the matches and decide who deserves to be part of my show and who doesn’t. I know American people have a short attention span so let me sum up my speech in three words: you will obey. I will not tolerate any insubordination, impudence or cheekiness. This Roman Reigns fellow was way too lazy and lenient. I will teach you what wrestling is all about.
Michael Cole: Thank God, they’re leaving! He’s completely lost it.
Pat McAfee: They will cross Drew McIntyre on their way out. I can’t imagine he’ll be too pleased with what he’s heard.
Michael Cole: Yes, ladies and gentlemen, our first match of the evening will pit Drew McIntyre against Logan Paul for the second time… | 82
SNEAK ATTACK
???
Pat McAfee: There’s obviously no love lost between Gunther and Drew McIntyre. If looks could kill…
Michael Cole: The animosity between these two dates back to WrestleMania, when Gunther retained the Intercontinental Championship… hey, wait a minute! Who’s that! Someone in ski mask just jumped McIntyre and threw him head first into the wall!
Pat McAfee: That has got to hurt.
Michael Cole: Don’t do that! No! He just powerbombed McIntyre down the ramp and onto the concrete floor!
Pat McAfee: And look at that coward running away now… what a scumbag.
Michael Cole: Gunther and his goons didn’t move a muscle. Talk about a new order! People are rushing to McIntyre’s aid while Logan Paul is making his own entrance, accompanied by his new training buddy, Sheamus. How is McIntyre supposed to compete after that?
Pat McAfee: I don’t know but it looks like he’s going to do it anyway. He’s pushing away the paramedics. | 74
Michael Cole: The animosity between these two dates back to WrestleMania, when Gunther retained the Intercontinental Championship… hey, wait a minute! Who’s that! Someone in ski mask just jumped McIntyre and threw him head first into the wall!
Pat McAfee: That has got to hurt.
Michael Cole: Don’t do that! No! He just powerbombed McIntyre down the ramp and onto the concrete floor!
Pat McAfee: And look at that coward running away now… what a scumbag.
Michael Cole: Gunther and his goons didn’t move a muscle. Talk about a new order! People are rushing to McIntyre’s aid while Logan Paul is making his own entrance, accompanied by his new training buddy, Sheamus. How is McIntyre supposed to compete after that?
Pat McAfee: I don’t know but it looks like he’s going to do it anyway. He’s pushing away the paramedics. | 74
DREW MCINTYRE vs LOGAN PAUL
vs
Mike Rome: The following bout is set for one fall. Introducing first, from Ayr, Scotland, weighing in at 275 pounds… Drew McIntyre! And his opponent, from Westlake, Ohio, weighing in at 205 pounds… Logan Paul!
Michael Cole: Always the opportunist, Paul goes on the attack as soon as the bell rings with a kick to the midsection. He’s looking to follow up with an elbow but McIntyre blocks the attempt and counters with a roundhouse kick.
Pat McAfee: That knocked the wind out of his sails!
Michael Cole: McIntyre goes to the ropes… Oh but Paul hits a dropkick out of nowhere, right on the button. He picks him and sends him crashing hard into the corner with an Irish whip. Clotheline… and Paul, standing on the first rope, now unleashing a series of punches on McIntyre’s face.
Pat McAfee: McIntyre’s been looking for revenge ever since he lost that match against Paul after Jake Paul interfered but he should have considered throwing the towel for this one. Paul’s not going to go easy on him.
Michael Cole: Both men recently said they wanted to challenge Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship and a win here would probably go a long way… hold on! McIntyre is lifting Paul on his shoulders!
Pat McAfee: He wasn’t going to take that beating with a smile on his face. He’s taking a few steps back… bucklebomb!
Michael Cole: Wow, did you see how Paul’s head rebounded after he hit the post? That’s not looking good.
Pat McAfee: He’s leaning on the ropes as he doesn’t want to go down but he does look like he’s taken a nasty bump. Watch out! McIntyre just ejected him from the ring with a vicious clotheline over the top rope!
Michael Cole: McIntyre is looking to follow up but Sheamus just puts himself between him and Paul. Oh, come on! Why does he have to get himself involved?
Pat McAfee: It seems their last man standing match didn’t settle the score. Sheamus has been obsessed with the Intercontinental Championship, the one title he’s never won here in WWE.
Michael Cole: What does it have to do with anything? Anyway, the argument is becoming quite heated but Sheamus’ interference allowed Paul to regroup and… where is he, by the way?
Pat McAfee: Look, he’s sneaked out of McIntyre’s sight. He’s on the apron right behind him. What is he looking… he’s going for a springboard crossbody!
Michael Cole: OH MY GOD! McIntyre was playing possum. He turned around and caught him in mid-flight with a Glasgow kiss! Did you hear that sickening sound?
Pat McAfee: That’s got to be over! There’s no way Paul is coming back from that. His skull could be fractured.
Michael Cole: McIntyre is looking dizzy too but he manages to fall on his opponent. 1… 2… Oh, come on! You have got to be kidding me! Sheamus put Paul’s boot on the rope! That’s ridiculous!
Michael Cole: Always the opportunist, Paul goes on the attack as soon as the bell rings with a kick to the midsection. He’s looking to follow up with an elbow but McIntyre blocks the attempt and counters with a roundhouse kick.
Pat McAfee: That knocked the wind out of his sails!
Michael Cole: McIntyre goes to the ropes… Oh but Paul hits a dropkick out of nowhere, right on the button. He picks him and sends him crashing hard into the corner with an Irish whip. Clotheline… and Paul, standing on the first rope, now unleashing a series of punches on McIntyre’s face.
Pat McAfee: McIntyre’s been looking for revenge ever since he lost that match against Paul after Jake Paul interfered but he should have considered throwing the towel for this one. Paul’s not going to go easy on him.
Michael Cole: Both men recently said they wanted to challenge Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship and a win here would probably go a long way… hold on! McIntyre is lifting Paul on his shoulders!
Pat McAfee: He wasn’t going to take that beating with a smile on his face. He’s taking a few steps back… bucklebomb!
Michael Cole: Wow, did you see how Paul’s head rebounded after he hit the post? That’s not looking good.
Pat McAfee: He’s leaning on the ropes as he doesn’t want to go down but he does look like he’s taken a nasty bump. Watch out! McIntyre just ejected him from the ring with a vicious clotheline over the top rope!
Michael Cole: McIntyre is looking to follow up but Sheamus just puts himself between him and Paul. Oh, come on! Why does he have to get himself involved?
Pat McAfee: It seems their last man standing match didn’t settle the score. Sheamus has been obsessed with the Intercontinental Championship, the one title he’s never won here in WWE.
Michael Cole: What does it have to do with anything? Anyway, the argument is becoming quite heated but Sheamus’ interference allowed Paul to regroup and… where is he, by the way?
Pat McAfee: Look, he’s sneaked out of McIntyre’s sight. He’s on the apron right behind him. What is he looking… he’s going for a springboard crossbody!
Michael Cole: OH MY GOD! McIntyre was playing possum. He turned around and caught him in mid-flight with a Glasgow kiss! Did you hear that sickening sound?
Pat McAfee: That’s got to be over! There’s no way Paul is coming back from that. His skull could be fractured.
Michael Cole: McIntyre is looking dizzy too but he manages to fall on his opponent. 1… 2… Oh, come on! You have got to be kidding me! Sheamus put Paul’s boot on the rope! That’s ridiculous!
Pat McAfee: For a guy who was almost knocked out before the match even begun, McIntyre is giving a good account of himself.
Michael Cole: Can’t argue with that but time definitely isn’t on his side. McIntyre appears to be losing patience now, hammering away at Paul while he’s still on the mat… and the referee has to create some separation.
Pat McAfee: I don’t know if Paul’s behind that sneak attack but this match isn’t going the way he expected it to.
Michael Cole: Logan Paul, now looking for a breather, wisely rolls out of the ring but McIntyre’s hot on his trail. Look out! Oh, and McIntyre just smashed Paul’s head on the steel steps.
Pat McAfee: Much to Sheamus’ chagrin but he can’t afford to get involved again.
Michael Cole: Hey, what’s he doing? They’re coming over here… He’s setting him up… Oh, my goodness no! Drew McIntyre just drove Logan Paul through the timekeeper’s table with a sit-out spinebuster!
Pat McAfee: I don’t care how fit he is, there’s no way he’s getting up from that!
Michael Cole: McIntyre is looking worse for wear though as he gingerly makes his way to the ring for what looks like a count-out victory. But, hey… no, not again! Sheamus is throwing water in Paul’s face.
Pat McAfee: Referee Charles Robinson’s reaching five. It’s too late anyway.
Michael Cole: Sheamus is… he’s lifting Logan Paul on his shoulder and bringing him back to the ring. They beat the count! But that won’t make much of a difference. McIntyre is getting ready for a claymore kick. Paul is hardly conscious…
Pat McAfee: Look out!
Michael Cole: No! Sheamus pushed Paul out of the way at the last second and McIntyre was sent crashing into the ring post. It’s practically been a two-on-one handicap match! The referee’s got to do something.
Pat McAfee: Paul is going to the apron again. Oh and this time, he connects with a springboard frog splash! It’s over… no, McIntyre kicks out just in time!
Michael Cole: McIntyre won’t give up. Paul picks him up, sends him running with an Irish Whip… and delivers a massive Spanish fly right in the middle of the ring. 1… 2… and McIntyre kicks out again, at two and a half!
Pat McAfee: Paul’s getting frustrated…
Michael Cole: He’s looking for a way out of this match. He’s setting up McIntyre against the ropes… goes to the ropes and… oh, wow! He just ran right into a big boot from the Scottish Terminator.
Pat McAfee: He’s twitching on the match. He might be suffering from a concussion.
Michael Cole: McIntyre’s getting into position for another claymore. He’s… no way! Sheamus grabbed his boot just as he was ready to launch himself at Paul. McIntyre’s furious – and rightly so – but Paul’s sneaking up on him again… McIntyre with a big right hand, Paul ducks, goes for a kick, McIntyre blocks him and… the one lucky punch! He caught McIntyre right on the side of the head!
Michael Cole: Can’t argue with that but time definitely isn’t on his side. McIntyre appears to be losing patience now, hammering away at Paul while he’s still on the mat… and the referee has to create some separation.
Pat McAfee: I don’t know if Paul’s behind that sneak attack but this match isn’t going the way he expected it to.
Michael Cole: Logan Paul, now looking for a breather, wisely rolls out of the ring but McIntyre’s hot on his trail. Look out! Oh, and McIntyre just smashed Paul’s head on the steel steps.
Pat McAfee: Much to Sheamus’ chagrin but he can’t afford to get involved again.
Michael Cole: Hey, what’s he doing? They’re coming over here… He’s setting him up… Oh, my goodness no! Drew McIntyre just drove Logan Paul through the timekeeper’s table with a sit-out spinebuster!
Pat McAfee: I don’t care how fit he is, there’s no way he’s getting up from that!
Michael Cole: McIntyre is looking worse for wear though as he gingerly makes his way to the ring for what looks like a count-out victory. But, hey… no, not again! Sheamus is throwing water in Paul’s face.
Pat McAfee: Referee Charles Robinson’s reaching five. It’s too late anyway.
Michael Cole: Sheamus is… he’s lifting Logan Paul on his shoulder and bringing him back to the ring. They beat the count! But that won’t make much of a difference. McIntyre is getting ready for a claymore kick. Paul is hardly conscious…
Pat McAfee: Look out!
Michael Cole: No! Sheamus pushed Paul out of the way at the last second and McIntyre was sent crashing into the ring post. It’s practically been a two-on-one handicap match! The referee’s got to do something.
Pat McAfee: Paul is going to the apron again. Oh and this time, he connects with a springboard frog splash! It’s over… no, McIntyre kicks out just in time!
Michael Cole: McIntyre won’t give up. Paul picks him up, sends him running with an Irish Whip… and delivers a massive Spanish fly right in the middle of the ring. 1… 2… and McIntyre kicks out again, at two and a half!
Pat McAfee: Paul’s getting frustrated…
Michael Cole: He’s looking for a way out of this match. He’s setting up McIntyre against the ropes… goes to the ropes and… oh, wow! He just ran right into a big boot from the Scottish Terminator.
Pat McAfee: He’s twitching on the match. He might be suffering from a concussion.
Michael Cole: McIntyre’s getting into position for another claymore. He’s… no way! Sheamus grabbed his boot just as he was ready to launch himself at Paul. McIntyre’s furious – and rightly so – but Paul’s sneaking up on him again… McIntyre with a big right hand, Paul ducks, goes for a kick, McIntyre blocks him and… the one lucky punch! He caught McIntyre right on the side of the head!
Pat McAfee: It’s over!
Michael Cole: He goes for the cover… 1… 2… 3… and just like that, Logan Paul wins the match… after being bailed out by his own brother last time around, Paul was saved on at least two occasions by Sheamus tonight. What a travesty! After being attacked on his way to the ring, a valiant Drew McIntyre finally succomb to a double effort from Logan Paul and Sheamus.
Michael Cole: He goes for the cover… 1… 2… 3… and just like that, Logan Paul wins the match… after being bailed out by his own brother last time around, Paul was saved on at least two occasions by Sheamus tonight. What a travesty! After being attacked on his way to the ring, a valiant Drew McIntyre finally succomb to a double effort from Logan Paul and Sheamus.
Winner by pinfall: Logan Paul in 9:55 | 64
BREAKING THE INTERNET
[Back from the break, Sheamus and Logan Paul are having a talk backstage]
Logan Paul: Hey, man, I just wanted to say thank you for helping me out there.
Sheamus: Ah, don’t mention it, lad. We did some good work together a couple of weeks ago and, you know, getting one over my old ‘friend’ Drew is always a bonus.
Logan Paul: Which reminds me… we’ll have to think of a schedule for a video together on my YouTube channel. I’m sure my audience would be interested in your work.
Sheamus: Thanks again for the offer. I still have one thing to accomplish here in the WWE but a man’s got to think about his old days. Someday soon, I’ll have to hang up me boots.
Logan Paul: It’s interesting you’d mention accomplishments. Don’t you think it’s a bit odd that, despite the fact I’ve hardly missed a show this year, I’m yet to win a major title? I think that’s something missing to my brand. You know, this sort of acknowledgement.
Sheamus: It’s a real shame, if you ask me. Some idiots back there, some backstabbers like Drew get chance after chance after chance… and yet I don’t remember you being given a single title shot since you fought Reigns in Saudi Arabia – great match, by the way.
Logan Paul: I really like your conversation. You know what? Maybe we should take this partnership a bit further. We could find ways to make Celtic Warrior Workouts feature more prominently on my platforms and we could tag on a more regular basis to add more shared contents. Imagine what it would look like if we won the tag team titles together?
Sheamus: It’s a tempting offer but, you see, I had something else…
Logan Paul: Take some time to think about it, why don’t you? You don’t need to give me an answer now. But let me tell you this: I don’t know when you started out in wrestling but you’re in great shape. And I know what I’m talking about. I understand you want that IC belt before you retire but that’s not going to happen any time soon, is it? Now, think about it: your experience and my athletic ability together! If you could win that title with a donkey like Cesaro, it should be a formality with me – a very rewarding formality, I might add.
Sheamus: I had my first match in…
Logan Paul: Yeah, no need to go into too much detail. You caught my drift. Thanks again for the assist, pal, and be sure to give my offer a good think. I’m sure it will grow up on you! | 71
Logan Paul: Hey, man, I just wanted to say thank you for helping me out there.
Sheamus: Ah, don’t mention it, lad. We did some good work together a couple of weeks ago and, you know, getting one over my old ‘friend’ Drew is always a bonus.
Logan Paul: Which reminds me… we’ll have to think of a schedule for a video together on my YouTube channel. I’m sure my audience would be interested in your work.
Sheamus: Thanks again for the offer. I still have one thing to accomplish here in the WWE but a man’s got to think about his old days. Someday soon, I’ll have to hang up me boots.
Logan Paul: It’s interesting you’d mention accomplishments. Don’t you think it’s a bit odd that, despite the fact I’ve hardly missed a show this year, I’m yet to win a major title? I think that’s something missing to my brand. You know, this sort of acknowledgement.
Sheamus: It’s a real shame, if you ask me. Some idiots back there, some backstabbers like Drew get chance after chance after chance… and yet I don’t remember you being given a single title shot since you fought Reigns in Saudi Arabia – great match, by the way.
Logan Paul: I really like your conversation. You know what? Maybe we should take this partnership a bit further. We could find ways to make Celtic Warrior Workouts feature more prominently on my platforms and we could tag on a more regular basis to add more shared contents. Imagine what it would look like if we won the tag team titles together?
Sheamus: It’s a tempting offer but, you see, I had something else…
Logan Paul: Take some time to think about it, why don’t you? You don’t need to give me an answer now. But let me tell you this: I don’t know when you started out in wrestling but you’re in great shape. And I know what I’m talking about. I understand you want that IC belt before you retire but that’s not going to happen any time soon, is it? Now, think about it: your experience and my athletic ability together! If you could win that title with a donkey like Cesaro, it should be a formality with me – a very rewarding formality, I might add.
Sheamus: I had my first match in…
Logan Paul: Yeah, no need to go into too much detail. You caught my drift. Thanks again for the assist, pal, and be sure to give my offer a good think. I’m sure it will grow up on you! | 71
RICHARD HOLLIDAY VIGNETTE
[The camera shows an expensive car in a parking lot. Richard Holliday is coming out of the backseat.]
Richard Holliday: My name is Richard Holliday and I am here in Standford, Connecticut, to take part in a once-in-a-lifetime event. One of the basic principles of business is that if you want to come out of a deal the winner, somebody has to lose. On very rare occasions, both parties come out of an agreement stronger. Richard Holliday, the most marketable wrestler in the world, and WWE – a match made in heaven. The shrewd among you probably wonder why it didn’t happen sooner. My answer is simple: if you live in the past, there’s no future for you. All I care about is here and now.
[Kurt Angle is coming in to greet him.]
Kurt Angle: Good morning Mister Holliday. I’m sorry, Hunter won’t be able to see you now but…
Richard Holliday: That’s exactly what I’m talking about.
Kurt Angle: Sorry?
Richard Holliday: It’s obvious your boss – and mine, as soon as we’re done with the formalities – is testing me. He’s sending a subordinate to assess my reaction.
Kurt Angle: No, he actually said he had more imp…
Richard Holliday: I say, so what? Kurt, wrestling is a consumer-driven market.
Kurt Angle: I thought it was sports ent…
Richard Holliday: You don’t become who I am without thinking two moves ahead of the competition. You do realise, Kurt, that I could have been a success anywhere, in almost any industry. Right now, I could be the most marketable chef in the world or the most marketable trader. It doesn’t matter. The first thing you need to do is to study your history. I bought a couple of Jim Cornette’s books and I read them! So it looks like they sent some low-ranking middle management man to welcome me but I know who you are, Kurt Angle.
Kurt Angle: You didn’t really let me…
Richard Holliday: Nice try but it didn’t work. You see, it is key to understand the needs of your key demographics and I can tell you that the investment you are about to make will remain forever in this company’s history? Why? Because Richard Holliday appeals to every demographic. It’s as simple as that. So, hand over the contract Kurt and let’s make these consumers happy!
Kurt Angle: Yeah, well, you see, we were wondering if you could come over another day because it’s quite busy today and…
Richard Holliday: You’re a man of action, Kurt! I like that! Lucky for you, I brought my own copy of the contract. You want to get to the point? I couldn’t agree more! Ok, you sign here…
Kurt Angle: But…
Richard Holliday: … and we’re good to go! See you on Friday, Kurt! And please, don’t go easy on me for my first match!
[Holliday jumps back into the car and leaves. Angle stares at the contract.]
Kurt Angle: I don’t think I’m allowed to sign contracts… | 56
[Kurt Angle is coming in to greet him.]
Kurt Angle: Good morning Mister Holliday. I’m sorry, Hunter won’t be able to see you now but…
Richard Holliday: That’s exactly what I’m talking about.
Kurt Angle: Sorry?
Richard Holliday: It’s obvious your boss – and mine, as soon as we’re done with the formalities – is testing me. He’s sending a subordinate to assess my reaction.
Kurt Angle: No, he actually said he had more imp…
Richard Holliday: I say, so what? Kurt, wrestling is a consumer-driven market.
Kurt Angle: I thought it was sports ent…
Richard Holliday: You don’t become who I am without thinking two moves ahead of the competition. You do realise, Kurt, that I could have been a success anywhere, in almost any industry. Right now, I could be the most marketable chef in the world or the most marketable trader. It doesn’t matter. The first thing you need to do is to study your history. I bought a couple of Jim Cornette’s books and I read them! So it looks like they sent some low-ranking middle management man to welcome me but I know who you are, Kurt Angle.
Kurt Angle: You didn’t really let me…
Richard Holliday: Nice try but it didn’t work. You see, it is key to understand the needs of your key demographics and I can tell you that the investment you are about to make will remain forever in this company’s history? Why? Because Richard Holliday appeals to every demographic. It’s as simple as that. So, hand over the contract Kurt and let’s make these consumers happy!
Kurt Angle: Yeah, well, you see, we were wondering if you could come over another day because it’s quite busy today and…
Richard Holliday: You’re a man of action, Kurt! I like that! Lucky for you, I brought my own copy of the contract. You want to get to the point? I couldn’t agree more! Ok, you sign here…
Kurt Angle: But…
Richard Holliday: … and we’re good to go! See you on Friday, Kurt! And please, don’t go easy on me for my first match!
[Holliday jumps back into the car and leaves. Angle stares at the contract.]
Kurt Angle: I don’t think I’m allowed to sign contracts… | 56
RICHARD HOLLIDAY vs ANGELO DAWKINS
vs
Michael Cole: Ladies and gentlemen, you saw what happened earlier this week at our headquarters. And now, Richard Holliday is getting ready for his first-ever match on SmackDown.
Mike Rome: The next bout is set up for one fall. Making his way to the ring… from Westport, Connecticut, weighing in at 237 pounds… he is the most marketable wrestler in the world… Richard Holliday!
Pat McAfee: He certainly doesn’t lack confidence which is quite remarkable for a relatively young athlete.
Mike Rome: And his opponent… accompanied to the ring by Montez Ford… from Cincinnati, Ohio… weighing in at 260 pounds… he is one half of the tag team champions… Angelo Dawkins!
Michael Cole: And Holliday couldn’t have wished for a more challenging debut. Angelo Dawkins is as tough as they come.
Pat McAfee: It will be interesting to see how he…
Michael Cole: You’ve got to be kidding me! Cutter! Richard Holliday connects with a cutter, seconds from the start. He hooks the leg… 1… 2… Dawkins kicks out! We almost witnessed one of the biggest surprises in SmackDown’s history!
Pat McAfee: He obviously wants to make an impression. Look at the way he sent Dawkins crashing into the ringpost.
Michael Cole: Big splash on Dawkins. Cover again… 1… No, that’s not enough but you have to wonder how long Dawkins will be able to put up with that kind of abuse.
Pat McAfee: He’s going to the ropes, looking for another high-impact move…
Michael Cole: Oh, wow! Dawkins countered with a spear out of nowhere!
Pat McAfee: He almost cut him in half!
Michael Cole: And now Dawkins with the cover… 1… Holliday kicks out! Both men quickly get up on their feet. They’re now trading blows in the middle of the ring but Dawkins is getting the upper hand… Irish whip… he’s going for the pop-up spinebuster but Holliday counters with a high knee… Oh, my God!
Pat McAfee: Dawkins didn’t see that double underhook backbreaker coming!
Michael Cole: Holliday doesn’t waste a second covering his opponent… 1… 2… 3! He got him!
Pat McAfee: No, referee Jessika Carr says that was only two.
Michael Cole: Holliday is absolutely livid. He thought he had that match won! He’s got quite a fiery temper…
Pat McAfee: His frustration is understandable but he’s allowing Dawkins to take a breather outside. He’s going to lose whatever advantage he had.
Michael Cole: He’s following suit but Montez Ford is buying his partner some time.
Pat McAfee: That’s not sitting well with Holliday but Ford can’t afford to put his hands on him.
Mike Rome: The next bout is set up for one fall. Making his way to the ring… from Westport, Connecticut, weighing in at 237 pounds… he is the most marketable wrestler in the world… Richard Holliday!
Pat McAfee: He certainly doesn’t lack confidence which is quite remarkable for a relatively young athlete.
Mike Rome: And his opponent… accompanied to the ring by Montez Ford… from Cincinnati, Ohio… weighing in at 260 pounds… he is one half of the tag team champions… Angelo Dawkins!
Michael Cole: And Holliday couldn’t have wished for a more challenging debut. Angelo Dawkins is as tough as they come.
Pat McAfee: It will be interesting to see how he…
Michael Cole: You’ve got to be kidding me! Cutter! Richard Holliday connects with a cutter, seconds from the start. He hooks the leg… 1… 2… Dawkins kicks out! We almost witnessed one of the biggest surprises in SmackDown’s history!
Pat McAfee: He obviously wants to make an impression. Look at the way he sent Dawkins crashing into the ringpost.
Michael Cole: Big splash on Dawkins. Cover again… 1… No, that’s not enough but you have to wonder how long Dawkins will be able to put up with that kind of abuse.
Pat McAfee: He’s going to the ropes, looking for another high-impact move…
Michael Cole: Oh, wow! Dawkins countered with a spear out of nowhere!
Pat McAfee: He almost cut him in half!
Michael Cole: And now Dawkins with the cover… 1… Holliday kicks out! Both men quickly get up on their feet. They’re now trading blows in the middle of the ring but Dawkins is getting the upper hand… Irish whip… he’s going for the pop-up spinebuster but Holliday counters with a high knee… Oh, my God!
Pat McAfee: Dawkins didn’t see that double underhook backbreaker coming!
Michael Cole: Holliday doesn’t waste a second covering his opponent… 1… 2… 3! He got him!
Pat McAfee: No, referee Jessika Carr says that was only two.
Michael Cole: Holliday is absolutely livid. He thought he had that match won! He’s got quite a fiery temper…
Pat McAfee: His frustration is understandable but he’s allowing Dawkins to take a breather outside. He’s going to lose whatever advantage he had.
Michael Cole: He’s following suit but Montez Ford is buying his partner some time.
Pat McAfee: That’s not sitting well with Holliday but Ford can’t afford to put his hands on him.
Michael Cole: Holliday is taking a step back… Oh, he’s trying to spear Ford but Ford moved out of the way and Holliday went crashing against the steel steps. Hey, look up! Look up!
Pat McAfee: That’s Dawkins on the top of the ring post!
Michael Cole: Frog splash from the top turnbuckle! He literally flattened Holliday on the concrete floor! And now, the Street Profits are rolling him back in… cover… 1… 2… kick out! Holliday survives.
Pat McAfee: Talk about resilience.
Michael Cole: Holliday senses the urgency and tries to get back to his feet… But Dawkins catches him with an inside cradle… 1… 2… 3! It’s over. That was a valiant effort from Richard Holliday for his first showing on SmackDown but at the end of the day, Dawkins’ experience made the difference.
Pat McAfee: That’s Dawkins on the top of the ring post!
Michael Cole: Frog splash from the top turnbuckle! He literally flattened Holliday on the concrete floor! And now, the Street Profits are rolling him back in… cover… 1… 2… kick out! Holliday survives.
Pat McAfee: Talk about resilience.
Michael Cole: Holliday senses the urgency and tries to get back to his feet… But Dawkins catches him with an inside cradle… 1… 2… 3! It’s over. That was a valiant effort from Richard Holliday for his first showing on SmackDown but at the end of the day, Dawkins’ experience made the difference.
Winner by pinfall: Angelo Dawkins in 6:49 | 56
READY TO TAKE ON THE WORLD
Michael Cole: Ah, apparently our broadcast colleague Kayla Braxton is waiting for us backstage. Over to you, Kayla.
Kayla Braxton: Thank you, Michael. Please, welcome mu guest at this time… the new SmackDown Women’s champion… The Man, Becky Lynch.
Becky Lynch: How are you doing, Kayla?
Kayla Braxton: Becky, how does it feel to be back on top of the mountain?
Becky Lynch: Honestly? It feels like an old friend made its way back into my life! I’m not going to lie, Rhea was a tough nut to crack but I feel on top of the world at the moment!
Kayla Braxton: Aren’t you worried about a rematch?
Becky Lynch: She threw everything she had at him except the kitchen sink and I still came out on top. Her punk-ass boyfriend literally begged me to spare her. I think that boat has sailed. She’s welcome to try but it’s my title to lose, not hers to win.
Kayla Braxton: You certainly sound very confident.
Becky Lynch: That’s the spirit! Let me tell you exactly how confident I feel at the moment. Here’s an open challenge: I’m ready to face anyone tonight. I’ll even go one better: I’ll tag with the first person who will walk through that door and face anybody and I will still come out on top.
Kayla Braxton: That’s... unexpected. Are you sure…
Alba Fyre: Oi, Becky, congratulations on…
Becky Lynch: You’re on!
Alba Fyre: What?
Kayla Braxton: Well, I suppose now we will have to see who will challenge the unlikely duo of Becky Lynch and Alba Fyre. | 91
Kayla Braxton: Thank you, Michael. Please, welcome mu guest at this time… the new SmackDown Women’s champion… The Man, Becky Lynch.
Becky Lynch: How are you doing, Kayla?
Kayla Braxton: Becky, how does it feel to be back on top of the mountain?
Becky Lynch: Honestly? It feels like an old friend made its way back into my life! I’m not going to lie, Rhea was a tough nut to crack but I feel on top of the world at the moment!
Kayla Braxton: Aren’t you worried about a rematch?
Becky Lynch: She threw everything she had at him except the kitchen sink and I still came out on top. Her punk-ass boyfriend literally begged me to spare her. I think that boat has sailed. She’s welcome to try but it’s my title to lose, not hers to win.
Kayla Braxton: You certainly sound very confident.
Becky Lynch: That’s the spirit! Let me tell you exactly how confident I feel at the moment. Here’s an open challenge: I’m ready to face anyone tonight. I’ll even go one better: I’ll tag with the first person who will walk through that door and face anybody and I will still come out on top.
Kayla Braxton: That’s... unexpected. Are you sure…
Alba Fyre: Oi, Becky, congratulations on…
Becky Lynch: You’re on!
Alba Fyre: What?
Kayla Braxton: Well, I suppose now we will have to see who will challenge the unlikely duo of Becky Lynch and Alba Fyre. | 91
GALLOWS WANTS ANSWERS
Kayla Braxton: One last question, Becky…
Luke Gallows: [walking alongside AJ Styles in front of the camera] I asked you a question and I’m waiting for an answer.
AJ Styles: I don’t like your tone, Doc.
Luke Gallows: It’s been two weeks since the Judgement Day hung our brother upside down and bled him like a pig on national television. Have you called Karl since that happened? It’s not a difficult question, damn it!
AJ Styles: Don’t play dumb with me. We both know the answer. I’m yet to call him. Where are you going with that? Who are you to judge me?
Luke Gallows: Are you even listening to yourself, AJ? What kind of crap is that? What could be more important than standing by a fallen brother?
AJ Styles: Look, I’ve been busy.
Luke Gallows: Sorry, man, that’s not good enough.
AJ Styles: Again, I ask: who do you think you are to judge me?
Luke Gallows: I’m the man who spends all of his spare time sitting in a hospital room with his friend. That’s who I think I am.
AJ Styles: You have got to be kidding me…
[Styles storms off while Karrion Kross and Scarlett watch from a distance, smiling.] | 76
Luke Gallows: [walking alongside AJ Styles in front of the camera] I asked you a question and I’m waiting for an answer.
AJ Styles: I don’t like your tone, Doc.
Luke Gallows: It’s been two weeks since the Judgement Day hung our brother upside down and bled him like a pig on national television. Have you called Karl since that happened? It’s not a difficult question, damn it!
AJ Styles: Don’t play dumb with me. We both know the answer. I’m yet to call him. Where are you going with that? Who are you to judge me?
Luke Gallows: Are you even listening to yourself, AJ? What kind of crap is that? What could be more important than standing by a fallen brother?
AJ Styles: Look, I’ve been busy.
Luke Gallows: Sorry, man, that’s not good enough.
AJ Styles: Again, I ask: who do you think you are to judge me?
Luke Gallows: I’m the man who spends all of his spare time sitting in a hospital room with his friend. That’s who I think I am.
AJ Styles: You have got to be kidding me…
[Styles storms off while Karrion Kross and Scarlett watch from a distance, smiling.] | 76
LACEY EVANS vs SONYA DEVILLE
vs
Michael Cole: We’re back at ringside with a fairly random match-up pitting together Lacey Evans and Sonya Deville.
Pat McAfee: It may be random but it’s interesting nonetheless: aren’t you curious to see how Sonya’s MMA style fares against Lacey’s military background?
Michael Cole: Honestly? No.
Pat McAfee: What’s with the attitude, man? You’ve been acting weird at SummerSlam too. Anyway, Sonya is starting strong with a takedown and she’s banging Lacey’s head on the mat.
Michael Cole: Pff. Schoolboy stuff.
Pat McAfee: Come on, that’s uncalled for. Sonya’s throwing Lacey into the corner but Lacey counters with an elbow straight to the face. They swap places and Lacey Evans hits back with a thunderous kick to the midsection.
Michael Cole: Good for her.
Pat McAfee: Are you sulking now? Sonya blocks her next strike and slaps in a triangle armbar. Lacey uses her long legs to get to the ropes and the referee has to break the hold.
Michael Cole: Pathetic.
Pat McAfee: Stop it with the one-liners, will you? Help me out there, buddy. Hey, look at that! Baseball slide from Sonya who really isn’t giving Lacey any breathing room. She’s kicking Lacey all across the ring.
Michael Cole: Let’s put it that way, when you’ve been on commentary for some of the greatest matches in WWE history, it’s hard to get any sense of entertainment from… that.
Pat McAfee: It’s your loss, Cole. Sonya keeps the pressure on with a series of chops… Irish whip to send Evans in the opposite corner… she blocks the move, turns around… and they run head first into each other.
Michael Cole: That’s what we call a botch. It happens with inferior performers.
Pat McAfee: Alright, I give up. Let’s not call the match at all, then. You’re being completely unprofessional here, Cole, and that makes your criticism of these two ladies sound completely unfair and hypocritical.
Michael Cole: *sigh* Ok, then. Evans makes it first to her feet and takes advantage of the situation by kicking Deville repeatedly in the head. She wastes some time antagonising the crowd and goes for her double standing moonsault.
Pat McAfee: Cover… 1… 2… Sonya kicks out!
Michael Cole: We should be so lucky. Evans goes to the apron now. Slingshot elbow drop but she clumsily hits Deville straight in the face. Amateur. And now, the referee is checking on Sonya Deville.
Pat McAfee: I’m not sure that was an accident. Lacey obviously thinks she’s got the match won but the crowd doesn’t react well to her military salute…
Michael Cole: Another rookie mistake… she’s turning her back on Deville, who’s making it back to a vertical base… goes to the ropes… and she connects with a step up knee strike right on the button. 1… 2… 3. It’s over. Thank God for that.
Pat McAfee: It may be random but it’s interesting nonetheless: aren’t you curious to see how Sonya’s MMA style fares against Lacey’s military background?
Michael Cole: Honestly? No.
Pat McAfee: What’s with the attitude, man? You’ve been acting weird at SummerSlam too. Anyway, Sonya is starting strong with a takedown and she’s banging Lacey’s head on the mat.
Michael Cole: Pff. Schoolboy stuff.
Pat McAfee: Come on, that’s uncalled for. Sonya’s throwing Lacey into the corner but Lacey counters with an elbow straight to the face. They swap places and Lacey Evans hits back with a thunderous kick to the midsection.
Michael Cole: Good for her.
Pat McAfee: Are you sulking now? Sonya blocks her next strike and slaps in a triangle armbar. Lacey uses her long legs to get to the ropes and the referee has to break the hold.
Michael Cole: Pathetic.
Pat McAfee: Stop it with the one-liners, will you? Help me out there, buddy. Hey, look at that! Baseball slide from Sonya who really isn’t giving Lacey any breathing room. She’s kicking Lacey all across the ring.
Michael Cole: Let’s put it that way, when you’ve been on commentary for some of the greatest matches in WWE history, it’s hard to get any sense of entertainment from… that.
Pat McAfee: It’s your loss, Cole. Sonya keeps the pressure on with a series of chops… Irish whip to send Evans in the opposite corner… she blocks the move, turns around… and they run head first into each other.
Michael Cole: That’s what we call a botch. It happens with inferior performers.
Pat McAfee: Alright, I give up. Let’s not call the match at all, then. You’re being completely unprofessional here, Cole, and that makes your criticism of these two ladies sound completely unfair and hypocritical.
Michael Cole: *sigh* Ok, then. Evans makes it first to her feet and takes advantage of the situation by kicking Deville repeatedly in the head. She wastes some time antagonising the crowd and goes for her double standing moonsault.
Pat McAfee: Cover… 1… 2… Sonya kicks out!
Michael Cole: We should be so lucky. Evans goes to the apron now. Slingshot elbow drop but she clumsily hits Deville straight in the face. Amateur. And now, the referee is checking on Sonya Deville.
Pat McAfee: I’m not sure that was an accident. Lacey obviously thinks she’s got the match won but the crowd doesn’t react well to her military salute…
Michael Cole: Another rookie mistake… she’s turning her back on Deville, who’s making it back to a vertical base… goes to the ropes… and she connects with a step up knee strike right on the button. 1… 2… 3. It’s over. Thank God for that.
Winner by pinfall: Sonya Deville in 5:11 | 49
USUAL SUSPECT
Kayla Braxton: Please welcome my guests at this time, Dominik Mysterio and Rhea Ripley. I take it you’ve heard the news about what happened to Cody Rhodes. Do you have a message for your fellow superstar, Dominik?
Dominik Mysterio: Ha! Kayla, you do realise you’re talking to someone who risked his life every second when he was doing some hard time? When someone has it in for you in jail, you have to watch your back even when you’re sleeping. And you want me to shed a tear because of what happened to Cody Rhodes? Sorry, Miss, no can do.
Kayla Braxton: That’s cold.
Dominik Mysterio: You think so? What kind of support did I get when I was behind bars? Did you ask questions about me when you had one of your little chats with other superstars?
Kayla Braxton: Actually, you didn’t stay away long enough for me to…
Rhea Ripley: Don’t try to stall for time. Just answer the question.
Kayla Braxton: No, I didn’t but…
Dominik Mysterio: But I do, uh? Sorry, doesn’t work that way.
Kayla Braxton: Alright, let’s move on then. What do you say to those who claim you have something to do with what happened to Cody Rhodes?
Dominik Mysterio: What do I say? What do I say? I say how did you come up with that crap? That’s America for you! Once you’ve been locked up once, they don’t even bother looking for the culprits, they just point the finger at you every time.
Rhea Ripley: Some people can’t stand the fact that Dom is the fastest-rising superstar on SmackDown and they would do anything to bring him down.
Kayla Braxton: Now it’s your turn to duck the question.
Dominik Mysterio: Is that your idea of an interview? I rubbed your nose in it and now you’re trying to get one back at me? Ok, he’s my answer: what proof do you have? Did you ask the same question to Becky Lynch?
Kayla Braxton: No, but she wouldn’t have a motive…
Rhea Ripley: [she snaps and grabs Braxton by the collar.] Listen to me very carefully, you dumb cow. First, you will leave my Dom out of this. If you try to drag his name in the mud ever again, I’ll make sure you can never hold a microphone again. Second, you will keep her name out of her lips and out of my hears. Did you understand?
Kayla Braxton: Whose na… [Ripley gets her face closer.] Alright, alright! Just let me go.
[Ripley and Dominik make their way out, laughing, while Braxton is trying to rearrange her clothes.] | 68
Dominik Mysterio: Ha! Kayla, you do realise you’re talking to someone who risked his life every second when he was doing some hard time? When someone has it in for you in jail, you have to watch your back even when you’re sleeping. And you want me to shed a tear because of what happened to Cody Rhodes? Sorry, Miss, no can do.
Kayla Braxton: That’s cold.
Dominik Mysterio: You think so? What kind of support did I get when I was behind bars? Did you ask questions about me when you had one of your little chats with other superstars?
Kayla Braxton: Actually, you didn’t stay away long enough for me to…
Rhea Ripley: Don’t try to stall for time. Just answer the question.
Kayla Braxton: No, I didn’t but…
Dominik Mysterio: But I do, uh? Sorry, doesn’t work that way.
Kayla Braxton: Alright, let’s move on then. What do you say to those who claim you have something to do with what happened to Cody Rhodes?
Dominik Mysterio: What do I say? What do I say? I say how did you come up with that crap? That’s America for you! Once you’ve been locked up once, they don’t even bother looking for the culprits, they just point the finger at you every time.
Rhea Ripley: Some people can’t stand the fact that Dom is the fastest-rising superstar on SmackDown and they would do anything to bring him down.
Kayla Braxton: Now it’s your turn to duck the question.
Dominik Mysterio: Is that your idea of an interview? I rubbed your nose in it and now you’re trying to get one back at me? Ok, he’s my answer: what proof do you have? Did you ask the same question to Becky Lynch?
Kayla Braxton: No, but she wouldn’t have a motive…
Rhea Ripley: [she snaps and grabs Braxton by the collar.] Listen to me very carefully, you dumb cow. First, you will leave my Dom out of this. If you try to drag his name in the mud ever again, I’ll make sure you can never hold a microphone again. Second, you will keep her name out of her lips and out of my hears. Did you understand?
Kayla Braxton: Whose na… [Ripley gets her face closer.] Alright, alright! Just let me go.
[Ripley and Dominik make their way out, laughing, while Braxton is trying to rearrange her clothes.] | 68
A MESSAGE FROM THE CHAMPS
Michael Cole: Back from the break and we’ve got a message from the new SmackDown Women’s champions, Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez.
Liv Morgan: Hey Ronda, this is a message just for you, honey. See these belts? Take a good look at them, come closer to your screen and kiss them goodbye because you’re never seeing them again.
Raquel Rodriguez: You made our lives miserable for a long, long time, Ronda but it’s over now. We gave it everything we got and we came out on top.
Liv Morgan: I’ll be honest, I never thought I’d ever say that but thanks to you, I can’t stop smiling!
Raquel Rodriguez: We stuck together through thick and thin and sometimes great things happen when you least expect them. We played fair and we earned the right to call ourselves champions.
Liv Morgan: Just one thing, Raquel. Don’t betray. Do you know how many times I’ve been betrayed by tag team partners?
Raquel Rodriguez: Ha! Don’t worry about that! We just beat the baddest woman on the planet…
Liv Morgan: … and her sidekick!
Raquel Rodriguez: … and her sidekick, yes. We’ve got plenty to look forward to and I can assure you that this title reign will be a long and memorable one.
Liv Morgan: Amen to that, sister! | 65
Liv Morgan: Hey Ronda, this is a message just for you, honey. See these belts? Take a good look at them, come closer to your screen and kiss them goodbye because you’re never seeing them again.
Raquel Rodriguez: You made our lives miserable for a long, long time, Ronda but it’s over now. We gave it everything we got and we came out on top.
Liv Morgan: I’ll be honest, I never thought I’d ever say that but thanks to you, I can’t stop smiling!
Raquel Rodriguez: We stuck together through thick and thin and sometimes great things happen when you least expect them. We played fair and we earned the right to call ourselves champions.
Liv Morgan: Just one thing, Raquel. Don’t betray. Do you know how many times I’ve been betrayed by tag team partners?
Raquel Rodriguez: Ha! Don’t worry about that! We just beat the baddest woman on the planet…
Liv Morgan: … and her sidekick!
Raquel Rodriguez: … and her sidekick, yes. We’ve got plenty to look forward to and I can assure you that this title reign will be a long and memorable one.
Liv Morgan: Amen to that, sister! | 65
SEVENTEENTH TIME’S THE CHARM?
Michael Cole: Ladies and gentlemen… the champ… is here!
Pat McAfee: Judging by the crowd’s reaction, the people of Waco don’t share your enthusiasm, Cole.
Michael Cole: Six days after putting an end to Bill Goldberg’s career, John Cena is live tonight and rumour has it that he’s got an important announcement to make.
John Cena: We’ve got a lively crowd tonight! That’s great. Being a WWE is all about making your voice heard. As for me, I’ve got a few things to say too. For starters, I have some good news for those of you who don’t like me at all: I’ll be taking a leave of absence over the next few weeks. I’ll be busy with a few projects in Hollywood. I understand such an announcement may sound unsensitive after I just put an end to a fellow wrestler’s career but that’s the way it is. Bill knew the deal when he decided to challenge me and I never imagined giving less than a hundred percent against him. He made his choice. Having said that, I don’t think you can take it upon yourself to pen the full stop to another man’s story without coming out of that experience a different person yourself. I’m man enough to admit that it got me thinking. A career – even on as long as eventful as Goldberg’s – is very short. Maybe… maybe I should make the most of that win. The stipulation was that, should I lose at SummerSlam, I never would have been allowed to challenge for a world title again. At the end of the night, I was standing tall but what was the point of beating Goldberg if I just pack my bags and go back home. I was laying awake on my hotel room bed on Saturday and I was thinking… Do I deserve to be a 17-time world champion? Ha, I see some of you have already made up their minds! Me, I couldn’t come up with a definite answer but I decided I owed it to myself to give it a hundred percent. You won’t see me for quite some time but I will be training and working up like never before. Hustle. Loyalty. Respect. I have lived by this code and if I am to break Ric Flair’s record, let these three words be my compass once again. You all are getting a break from yours truly but I will be back to challenge for the world title, I promise. And then we will know whether I deserve to beat Ric Flair’s record or not. In the meantime… enjoy! | 66
Pat McAfee: Judging by the crowd’s reaction, the people of Waco don’t share your enthusiasm, Cole.
Michael Cole: Six days after putting an end to Bill Goldberg’s career, John Cena is live tonight and rumour has it that he’s got an important announcement to make.
John Cena: We’ve got a lively crowd tonight! That’s great. Being a WWE is all about making your voice heard. As for me, I’ve got a few things to say too. For starters, I have some good news for those of you who don’t like me at all: I’ll be taking a leave of absence over the next few weeks. I’ll be busy with a few projects in Hollywood. I understand such an announcement may sound unsensitive after I just put an end to a fellow wrestler’s career but that’s the way it is. Bill knew the deal when he decided to challenge me and I never imagined giving less than a hundred percent against him. He made his choice. Having said that, I don’t think you can take it upon yourself to pen the full stop to another man’s story without coming out of that experience a different person yourself. I’m man enough to admit that it got me thinking. A career – even on as long as eventful as Goldberg’s – is very short. Maybe… maybe I should make the most of that win. The stipulation was that, should I lose at SummerSlam, I never would have been allowed to challenge for a world title again. At the end of the night, I was standing tall but what was the point of beating Goldberg if I just pack my bags and go back home. I was laying awake on my hotel room bed on Saturday and I was thinking… Do I deserve to be a 17-time world champion? Ha, I see some of you have already made up their minds! Me, I couldn’t come up with a definite answer but I decided I owed it to myself to give it a hundred percent. You won’t see me for quite some time but I will be training and working up like never before. Hustle. Loyalty. Respect. I have lived by this code and if I am to break Ric Flair’s record, let these three words be my compass once again. You all are getting a break from yours truly but I will be back to challenge for the world title, I promise. And then we will know whether I deserve to beat Ric Flair’s record or not. In the meantime… enjoy! | 66
ELIAS vs DOMINIK MYSTERIO
vs
Mike Rome: The following bout is set for one fall. Introducing first, from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania… weighing at 227 pounds… Elias!
Michael Cole: Elias’ career on SmackDown has been stalling a bit in recent weeks after failed tag team experiments alongside Rick Boogs and Drew McIntyre, don’t you think, Pat?
Pat McAfee: It’s not rocket science, Cole. Elias is a drifter. He’s his own man. In other words, he doesn’t play well with others. Singles competition is the answer for him.
Mike Rome: And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by Rhea Ripley… from San Diego, California… weighing in at 200 pounds… ‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio!
Michael Cole: A win against the self-proclaimed ‘fastest rising star in WWE’ would certainly put Elias in the spotlight.
Pat McAfee: Easier said than done though, particularly when Rhea Ripley is standing by his side.
Michael Cole: The referee gets the match underway. Collar and elbow tie-up to start things off… Elias is getting the upper hand, waist lock… Dominik Mysterio reverses but Elias grounds him with another headlock. Dominik squirms his way out and hits back with a headscissors but Elias gets out of it.
Pat McAfee: That was a great show of grappling technique from both men. Who will come out on top.
Michael Cole: They’re back to square one with the collar and elbow tie-up. Elias pushes Dominik to the ropes… Irish whip… Elias ducks, rebound and Dominik gets caught by a picture-perfect dropkick from Elias. Cover… 1… Dominik kicks out.
Pat McAfee: The fastest rising superstars feels it’s time to get a couple of words with his Mami.
Michael Cole: That’s probably not the start Dominik had in mind. He goes back in… oh, but Elias connects with a baseball slide just as he was about to sneak under the ropes. Dominik was caught napping here. Oh my God! Elias tried to follow up with a springboard elbow drop but Dom moved out of the way at the last second.
Pat McAfee: Looks like he hurt his arm.
Michael Cole: Dominik Mysterio, like a hyena, picking up the pieces. He’s throwing Elias head first into the post. And now, Dominik’s sick tribute to the late Eddie Guerrero… 3 amigos on the concrete floor. Just like that, Elias’ momentum is gone.
Pat McAfee: I don’t know what’s worse, getting squashed on the concrete or having Rhea literally screaming in your face.
Michael Cole: Always looking for any advantage he can get, Dominik is now waiting for a count-out victory but Elias is getting back on his feet, despite Rhea’s trash-talking. He’s picking up a chair… what’s he going to do? It’s not a no disqualification match. He’s climbing on the top turnbuckle, Dom saw him… Elias’ throwing the chair, Dominik catches… Oh, wow! Elias used the chair for target practice and he landed another dropkick right on target!
Pat McAfee: East steel, Dom!
Michael Cole: Elias’ career on SmackDown has been stalling a bit in recent weeks after failed tag team experiments alongside Rick Boogs and Drew McIntyre, don’t you think, Pat?
Pat McAfee: It’s not rocket science, Cole. Elias is a drifter. He’s his own man. In other words, he doesn’t play well with others. Singles competition is the answer for him.
Mike Rome: And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by Rhea Ripley… from San Diego, California… weighing in at 200 pounds… ‘Dirty’ Dominik Mysterio!
Michael Cole: A win against the self-proclaimed ‘fastest rising star in WWE’ would certainly put Elias in the spotlight.
Pat McAfee: Easier said than done though, particularly when Rhea Ripley is standing by his side.
Michael Cole: The referee gets the match underway. Collar and elbow tie-up to start things off… Elias is getting the upper hand, waist lock… Dominik Mysterio reverses but Elias grounds him with another headlock. Dominik squirms his way out and hits back with a headscissors but Elias gets out of it.
Pat McAfee: That was a great show of grappling technique from both men. Who will come out on top.
Michael Cole: They’re back to square one with the collar and elbow tie-up. Elias pushes Dominik to the ropes… Irish whip… Elias ducks, rebound and Dominik gets caught by a picture-perfect dropkick from Elias. Cover… 1… Dominik kicks out.
Pat McAfee: The fastest rising superstars feels it’s time to get a couple of words with his Mami.
Michael Cole: That’s probably not the start Dominik had in mind. He goes back in… oh, but Elias connects with a baseball slide just as he was about to sneak under the ropes. Dominik was caught napping here. Oh my God! Elias tried to follow up with a springboard elbow drop but Dom moved out of the way at the last second.
Pat McAfee: Looks like he hurt his arm.
Michael Cole: Dominik Mysterio, like a hyena, picking up the pieces. He’s throwing Elias head first into the post. And now, Dominik’s sick tribute to the late Eddie Guerrero… 3 amigos on the concrete floor. Just like that, Elias’ momentum is gone.
Pat McAfee: I don’t know what’s worse, getting squashed on the concrete or having Rhea literally screaming in your face.
Michael Cole: Always looking for any advantage he can get, Dominik is now waiting for a count-out victory but Elias is getting back on his feet, despite Rhea’s trash-talking. He’s picking up a chair… what’s he going to do? It’s not a no disqualification match. He’s climbing on the top turnbuckle, Dom saw him… Elias’ throwing the chair, Dominik catches… Oh, wow! Elias used the chair for target practice and he landed another dropkick right on target!
Pat McAfee: East steel, Dom!
Michael Cole: He’s got him! He’s got him! 1… 2… Dominik survives. Elias going up again, maybe for a leg drop… but Mysterio, out of desperation, rushes in and sends him crashing in the middle of the ring.
Pat McAfee: Dominik’s already on top of him with a series of knee strikes to the leg.
Michael Cole: He’s bit over-enthusiastic though and referee Ryan Tran has to order a break.
Pat McAfee: Dom’s not too happy with that and neither is Rhea.
Michael Cole: Elias, wisely using that time to regroup… he’s back to a vertical base now. Irish whip on Mysterio again but Dominik holds onto the ropes. Elias goes for the discus clotheline but Dominik ducks out and a chop block knocks Elias down a peg.
Pat McAfee: Oh-oh… he landed on the second rope. That’s not looking good for him…
Michael Cole: Look at the twisted smile on his face. What a punk! He connects with the 619, his father’s signature move. That’s revolting. He hooks the leg… 1… 2… Elias kicks out.
Pat McAfee: Apparently, Dominik isn’t too happy with the referee’s count.
Michael Cole: He’s completely losing it, you mean. He’s grabbed Elias’ head and he’s smashing it repeatedly against the steel chair. Stop him, ref! That’s got to be a disqualification!
Pat McAfee: From where I stand, Dom’s looking pretty pleased with himself.
Michael Cole: He’s taunting the crowd. He’s got to be one of the most hated superstars in WWE history after all he did to his family. Hey, look out! Elias’ is back! He’s hoisting Mysterio on his shoulders. He’s going to eject him outside, like the punk kid that is!
Pat McAfee: Oh, wow! Did you see that! What an incredible show of strength! Rhea Ripley caught him in mid-air!
Michael Cole: How many times is she going to bail him out of jail – literally! Elias is livid and Rhea is daring him to come outside and face her. That’s ridiculous!
Pat McAfee: He should keep his eyes on Dom, who’s sneaked back in the ring. What’s he setting up that steel chair for?
Michael Cole: Look at that coward. From behind, double axe handle on Elias. Oh, no! Atomic drop on the backrest of the steel chair. Superkick! No! No!
Pat McAfee: Elias is down…
Michael Cole: Dominik’s going up top! Frog splash on a helpless Elias! 1… 2… 3. I don’t believe it! Is he ever going to win a match on his own?
Pat McAfee: Be that as it may, Dom bounced back from the disappointment of losing to Edge at SummerSlam with a victory over Elias tonight.
Pat McAfee: Dominik’s already on top of him with a series of knee strikes to the leg.
Michael Cole: He’s bit over-enthusiastic though and referee Ryan Tran has to order a break.
Pat McAfee: Dom’s not too happy with that and neither is Rhea.
Michael Cole: Elias, wisely using that time to regroup… he’s back to a vertical base now. Irish whip on Mysterio again but Dominik holds onto the ropes. Elias goes for the discus clotheline but Dominik ducks out and a chop block knocks Elias down a peg.
Pat McAfee: Oh-oh… he landed on the second rope. That’s not looking good for him…
Michael Cole: Look at the twisted smile on his face. What a punk! He connects with the 619, his father’s signature move. That’s revolting. He hooks the leg… 1… 2… Elias kicks out.
Pat McAfee: Apparently, Dominik isn’t too happy with the referee’s count.
Michael Cole: He’s completely losing it, you mean. He’s grabbed Elias’ head and he’s smashing it repeatedly against the steel chair. Stop him, ref! That’s got to be a disqualification!
Pat McAfee: From where I stand, Dom’s looking pretty pleased with himself.
Michael Cole: He’s taunting the crowd. He’s got to be one of the most hated superstars in WWE history after all he did to his family. Hey, look out! Elias’ is back! He’s hoisting Mysterio on his shoulders. He’s going to eject him outside, like the punk kid that is!
Pat McAfee: Oh, wow! Did you see that! What an incredible show of strength! Rhea Ripley caught him in mid-air!
Michael Cole: How many times is she going to bail him out of jail – literally! Elias is livid and Rhea is daring him to come outside and face her. That’s ridiculous!
Pat McAfee: He should keep his eyes on Dom, who’s sneaked back in the ring. What’s he setting up that steel chair for?
Michael Cole: Look at that coward. From behind, double axe handle on Elias. Oh, no! Atomic drop on the backrest of the steel chair. Superkick! No! No!
Pat McAfee: Elias is down…
Michael Cole: Dominik’s going up top! Frog splash on a helpless Elias! 1… 2… 3. I don’t believe it! Is he ever going to win a match on his own?
Pat McAfee: Be that as it may, Dom bounced back from the disappointment of losing to Edge at SummerSlam with a victory over Elias tonight.
Winner by pinfall: Dominik Mysterio in 8:31 | 63
CONSEQUENCES
Michael Cole: Ladies and gentlemen, I’ve just been told that SmackDown General Manager Adam Pearce is having an emergency meeting with the Universal champion Gunther after his despicable actions earlier tonight. We’ve got a camera backstage. Over to you, guys.
Adam Pearce: Let me through! I want to speak with him! Gunther! Let me in immediately!
Gunther: Ah, this is my friend, Herr Pearce. How’s the head?
Adam Pearce: For starters, you will wipe that smug smile off your face, you son of a bitch!
Gunther: It’s a bold move to challenge the lion in his den, Herr Pearce.
Adam Pearce: You, a lion? Don’t make me laugh! What went through your head? You hit a woman in front of the whole country!
Gunther: I beg to differ. I didn’t hit a woman, I hit a worker who didn’t do her job correctly. Am I correct, Fräulein Valhalla?
Valhalla: Yes.
Gunther: Yes, who?
Valhalla: Yes, master.
Gunther: See? I think you’re over-reacting. There’s no problem here.
Adam Pearce: Are you kidding me? Who do you think you are? This is my show! I make the calls around here!
Gunther: Do you? Last time we had a disagreement, you seemed sympathetic to my point of view.
Adam Pearce: That’s because you put me through the iron claw! Ok, fine. I can see I’m wasting my time here. Let me make this clear to you, then. I want you to apologise for your actions, next week on SmackDown. If you don’t, we will see who calls the shots.
Gunther: You’re overstepping…
Adam Pearce: Shut up! You will apologise next week or your title reign will be a very short one indeed. | 67
Adam Pearce: Let me through! I want to speak with him! Gunther! Let me in immediately!
Gunther: Ah, this is my friend, Herr Pearce. How’s the head?
Adam Pearce: For starters, you will wipe that smug smile off your face, you son of a bitch!
Gunther: It’s a bold move to challenge the lion in his den, Herr Pearce.
Adam Pearce: You, a lion? Don’t make me laugh! What went through your head? You hit a woman in front of the whole country!
Gunther: I beg to differ. I didn’t hit a woman, I hit a worker who didn’t do her job correctly. Am I correct, Fräulein Valhalla?
Valhalla: Yes.
Gunther: Yes, who?
Valhalla: Yes, master.
Gunther: See? I think you’re over-reacting. There’s no problem here.
Adam Pearce: Are you kidding me? Who do you think you are? This is my show! I make the calls around here!
Gunther: Do you? Last time we had a disagreement, you seemed sympathetic to my point of view.
Adam Pearce: That’s because you put me through the iron claw! Ok, fine. I can see I’m wasting my time here. Let me make this clear to you, then. I want you to apologise for your actions, next week on SmackDown. If you don’t, we will see who calls the shots.
Gunther: You’re overstepping…
Adam Pearce: Shut up! You will apologise next week or your title reign will be a very short one indeed. | 67
JBL IS BACK
Michael Cole: It looks like there’s no love lost between the new champion and the General Manager.
Pat McAfee: You can’t really blame Pearce. Gunther humiliated him on a couple of occasions.
Michael Cole: Switching gears, we’re in Texas tonight and old friend has decided to pay us a visit.
Mike Rome: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… WWE Hall of Famer… John Bradshaw Layfield!
JBL: It’s always a pleasure to be here when WWE visits a civilised country! My fellow Texans know me but for those of you watching from some backwater city like Washington, let me tell you this: John Bradshaw Layfield knows an opportunity when it hits him in the eye. Let’s be honest here, my last investments in wrestling weren’t up to my usual standards. Want to know why? Because I’m a nice guy. I gave these guys too much credit. But think about it: do you think a businessman of my calibre could get it wrong three times in a row? Don’t be ridiculous. Basic logic dictates that whoever I pick now will automatically be a success. You can bet the house on it. When favourable circumstances meet talent, you have your opportunity. What circumstances am I talking about? Edge is the Intercontinental champion. He’s well past his sell-by date so it’s high time someone takes that belt off his hands. As for talent… I’ve got it covered.
Pat McAfee: You can’t really blame Pearce. Gunther humiliated him on a couple of occasions.
Michael Cole: Switching gears, we’re in Texas tonight and old friend has decided to pay us a visit.
Mike Rome: Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome… WWE Hall of Famer… John Bradshaw Layfield!
JBL: It’s always a pleasure to be here when WWE visits a civilised country! My fellow Texans know me but for those of you watching from some backwater city like Washington, let me tell you this: John Bradshaw Layfield knows an opportunity when it hits him in the eye. Let’s be honest here, my last investments in wrestling weren’t up to my usual standards. Want to know why? Because I’m a nice guy. I gave these guys too much credit. But think about it: do you think a businessman of my calibre could get it wrong three times in a row? Don’t be ridiculous. Basic logic dictates that whoever I pick now will automatically be a success. You can bet the house on it. When favourable circumstances meet talent, you have your opportunity. What circumstances am I talking about? Edge is the Intercontinental champion. He’s well past his sell-by date so it’s high time someone takes that belt off his hands. As for talent… I’ve got it covered.
[Powerhouse Hobbs makes his way to the ring.] This man is an absolute monster. They say he can’t talk, they his record sucks, they say he’s a one-trick pony… I say come and say it to his face. Edge, my guy is officially challenging you for your Intercontinental Championship and if you want a sneak peak of what’s to come for you… don’t go anywhere. | 61
LUKE GALLOWS vs POWERHOUSE HOBBS
vs
Mike Rome: The following bout is set for one fall. Already in the ring, accompanied by his manager, WWE Hall of Famer John Bradshaw Layfield… from East Palo Alto, California… weighing in at 270 pounds… Powerhouse Hobbs! And his opponent, from Chicago, Illinois… weighing in at 290 pounds… Luke Gallows!
Michael Cole: Well, JBL hasn’t changed one bit since the last time he appeared on TV.
Pat McAfee: It’s hard to disagree but he may have a point. This Hobbs guy is an impressive specimen.
Michael Cole: He will have his work cut out for him tonight with Luke Gallows, who’s looking to rebound after losing his partner Karl Anderson to a long-term injury. Hobbs’ WWE career has been lukewarm so far: he lost a couple of matches to John Cena and Butch and spent three months on the sidelines because of a torn quad. He’s first in action here with a series of forearms to the towering Gallows.
Pat McAfee: Looks like Gallows wasn’t expecting such a strong start.
Michael Cole: He’s pushed him back into the corner but Gallows hits back with a kick to the midsection and a big boot flattens Powerhouse Hobbs.
Pat McAfee: His relationship with AJ Styles is getting sour. Gallows’ in a foul mood tonight.
Michael Cole: For now, he’s keeping Hobbs down with a series of clothelines, much to JBL’s anger. Hobbs ducks and counters with a German suplex and just like that, he’s in control again.
Pat McAfee: Gallows felt the momentum swinging. He’s going to take a breather.
Michael Cole: I don’t think Hobbs will let him off the hook so easily… he’s going to the ropes, suicide dive incoming… Oh my God! Gallows saw it coming but instead of stepping away, he stood firm and greeted him with a headbutt!
Pat McAfee: That was brave, but not very clever. They’re both struggling on the floor and it looks like Gallows’ busted open.
Michael Cole: JBL is trying to revive his protégé. Hobbs looks stunned but he’s trying to get back into the ring… Wait a minute! Gallows shoves him… back body drop on the apron!
Pat McAfee: Gallows with the cover… 1… Hobbs kicks out.
Michael Cole: Hobbs is trying to get some distance but Gallows is looking for the kill now… Fallaway slam… he hooks the leg… 1… 2… and another kick out.
Pat McAfee: Do you think Gallows will get a title match if he beats Hobbs?
Michael Cole: Stranger things have happened. Hobbs is trying to get some distance but Gallows… what’s he trying to do? He’s looking to throw him over the top rope!
Pat McAfee: Hobbs is holding on for dear life!
Michael Cole: He regained his footing and now Hobbs is hitting back with a series of punches. Gallows is reeling. Hobbs is lifting him up… no way! He’s going for the torture rack!
Pat McAfee: Gallows is way too big for that!
Michael Cole: Well, JBL hasn’t changed one bit since the last time he appeared on TV.
Pat McAfee: It’s hard to disagree but he may have a point. This Hobbs guy is an impressive specimen.
Michael Cole: He will have his work cut out for him tonight with Luke Gallows, who’s looking to rebound after losing his partner Karl Anderson to a long-term injury. Hobbs’ WWE career has been lukewarm so far: he lost a couple of matches to John Cena and Butch and spent three months on the sidelines because of a torn quad. He’s first in action here with a series of forearms to the towering Gallows.
Pat McAfee: Looks like Gallows wasn’t expecting such a strong start.
Michael Cole: He’s pushed him back into the corner but Gallows hits back with a kick to the midsection and a big boot flattens Powerhouse Hobbs.
Pat McAfee: His relationship with AJ Styles is getting sour. Gallows’ in a foul mood tonight.
Michael Cole: For now, he’s keeping Hobbs down with a series of clothelines, much to JBL’s anger. Hobbs ducks and counters with a German suplex and just like that, he’s in control again.
Pat McAfee: Gallows felt the momentum swinging. He’s going to take a breather.
Michael Cole: I don’t think Hobbs will let him off the hook so easily… he’s going to the ropes, suicide dive incoming… Oh my God! Gallows saw it coming but instead of stepping away, he stood firm and greeted him with a headbutt!
Pat McAfee: That was brave, but not very clever. They’re both struggling on the floor and it looks like Gallows’ busted open.
Michael Cole: JBL is trying to revive his protégé. Hobbs looks stunned but he’s trying to get back into the ring… Wait a minute! Gallows shoves him… back body drop on the apron!
Pat McAfee: Gallows with the cover… 1… Hobbs kicks out.
Michael Cole: Hobbs is trying to get some distance but Gallows is looking for the kill now… Fallaway slam… he hooks the leg… 1… 2… and another kick out.
Pat McAfee: Do you think Gallows will get a title match if he beats Hobbs?
Michael Cole: Stranger things have happened. Hobbs is trying to get some distance but Gallows… what’s he trying to do? He’s looking to throw him over the top rope!
Pat McAfee: Hobbs is holding on for dear life!
Michael Cole: He regained his footing and now Hobbs is hitting back with a series of punches. Gallows is reeling. Hobbs is lifting him up… no way! He’s going for the torture rack!
Pat McAfee: Gallows is way too big for that!
Michael Cole: He did put him through the rack but not for long. A couple of elbows straight to Hobbs’ face forced him to release the hold.
Pat McAfee: Hobbs is going to the ropes…
Michael Cole: … and he runs straight into Gallows’ big boot. He’s been squashed like a bug.
Pat McAfee: That’s no mean feat when you consider Hobbs’ size.
Michael Cole: Gallows now hammering away at Hobbs. Cover… but Hobbs kicks out almost immediately. He picks him up… he’s trying to lock in his Gallows pole but Hobbs fights back with everything he has and he lands an elbow right on the side of Gallows’ jaw.
Pat McAfee: Hobbs not ready to give up yet and JBL is screaming like a madman at ringside!
Michael Cole: Hobbs goes to the ropes again… powerslam on Gallows! Is it enough? 1… 2… and Gallows kicks out at two!
Pat McAfee: With all the blood is already lost, time’s playing against Gallows but both men look exhausted at the moment.
Michael Cole: Probably a bit of ring rust on Hobbs side. He’s stalking Gallows now, looking for another high-impact move. Gallows slowly gets up… Hobbs goes for the spear but Gallows moves out of harm’s way at the last second!
Pat McAfee: He crashed hard into the corner. This could be a turning point.
Michael Cole: Gallows grabs him, he’s looking for the Gallows pole again… but Hobbs counters with a jaw breaker!
Pat McAfee: Gallows is going to eat through a straw for the next couple of weeks, at this rate!
Michael Cole: He lifts him on his shoulders… that’s the manoeuvre he calls town biddness! 1… 2… 3! It’s over. At the end of a war of attrition, Powerhouse Hobbs prevails with a finisher out of nowhere but Gallows made him work hard for that win.
Pat McAfee: Hobbs is going to the ropes…
Michael Cole: … and he runs straight into Gallows’ big boot. He’s been squashed like a bug.
Pat McAfee: That’s no mean feat when you consider Hobbs’ size.
Michael Cole: Gallows now hammering away at Hobbs. Cover… but Hobbs kicks out almost immediately. He picks him up… he’s trying to lock in his Gallows pole but Hobbs fights back with everything he has and he lands an elbow right on the side of Gallows’ jaw.
Pat McAfee: Hobbs not ready to give up yet and JBL is screaming like a madman at ringside!
Michael Cole: Hobbs goes to the ropes again… powerslam on Gallows! Is it enough? 1… 2… and Gallows kicks out at two!
Pat McAfee: With all the blood is already lost, time’s playing against Gallows but both men look exhausted at the moment.
Michael Cole: Probably a bit of ring rust on Hobbs side. He’s stalking Gallows now, looking for another high-impact move. Gallows slowly gets up… Hobbs goes for the spear but Gallows moves out of harm’s way at the last second!
Pat McAfee: He crashed hard into the corner. This could be a turning point.
Michael Cole: Gallows grabs him, he’s looking for the Gallows pole again… but Hobbs counters with a jaw breaker!
Pat McAfee: Gallows is going to eat through a straw for the next couple of weeks, at this rate!
Michael Cole: He lifts him on his shoulders… that’s the manoeuvre he calls town biddness! 1… 2… 3! It’s over. At the end of a war of attrition, Powerhouse Hobbs prevails with a finisher out of nowhere but Gallows made him work hard for that win.
Winner by pinfall: Powerhouse Hobbs in 7:44 | 54
WHO WILL SIT AT THE HEAD OF THE TABLE?
[Backstage, Solo Sikoa, Jey and Jimmy Uso are having a meeting in Roman Reigns’ former lounge.]
Jey Uso: Yo, Uce. I called this family meeting because… [talking to Sikoa] hey, Uce, don’t look at me like that.
Jimmy Uso: Yo, we did what we had to do. Yessir. Roman was getting out of control.
Jey Uso: You went too far but now that he’s gone from SmackDown, I think we need to put what happened in the past, you know. It’s a fresh start for the Bloodline, Uce.
Jimmy Uso: You’re still our brother, Uce. And Roman is still our cousin but he needs to cool it off before we can speak again.
Jey Uso: In the meantime, we need to stick together. The three of us. But don’t worry, Uce, I won’t follow in Roman’s footsteps.
Jimmy Uso: Hey, hey, hey, wait a minute! What are you talking about? Who died and made you the boss?
Jey Uso: I’m not the boss, I’m the head of the table.
Jimmy Uso: Hey, who stood up to Roman last time around?
Jey Uso: And who stood up to him first?
[Sikoa grabs a grapefruit in a nearby basket and squashes it with one hand.]
Jey Uso: Alright, alright.
Jimmy Uso: I’ve got an idea, Uce. Let’s set up a beat the clock challenge between the three of us. Whoever wins calls the shots. That work for you, Uce?
[Jey and Solo nod.] | 55
Jimmy Uso: Yo, we did what we had to do. Yessir. Roman was getting out of control.
Jey Uso: You went too far but now that he’s gone from SmackDown, I think we need to put what happened in the past, you know. It’s a fresh start for the Bloodline, Uce.
Jimmy Uso: You’re still our brother, Uce. And Roman is still our cousin but he needs to cool it off before we can speak again.
Jey Uso: In the meantime, we need to stick together. The three of us. But don’t worry, Uce, I won’t follow in Roman’s footsteps.
Jimmy Uso: Hey, hey, hey, wait a minute! What are you talking about? Who died and made you the boss?
Jey Uso: I’m not the boss, I’m the head of the table.
Jimmy Uso: Hey, who stood up to Roman last time around?
Jey Uso: And who stood up to him first?
[Sikoa grabs a grapefruit in a nearby basket and squashes it with one hand.]
Jey Uso: Alright, alright.
Jimmy Uso: I’ve got an idea, Uce. Let’s set up a beat the clock challenge between the three of us. Whoever wins calls the shots. That work for you, Uce?
[Jey and Solo nod.] | 55
CHALLENGE ACCEPTED
Kayla Braxton: Please welcome my guest at this time, Ronda Rousey.
Ronda Rousey: Evening, Kayla. Let’s not waste any time. I’m here because I’m want to face Becky Lynch and Ginger tonight.
Kayla Braxton: You mean Alba Fyre. SummerSlam didn’t turn out the way you expected since you lost the Women’s Tag Team Championship. Is tonight’s main event an opportunity for you and your partner, Shayna Baszler, to bounce back?
Ronda Rousey: Look, Shayna and I, we’ve known each other for a long, long time. I think she’s got enough experience to realise when she messes up. At SummerSlam, she wasn’t at the level I expected, she wasn’t on my level – not that she ever was, mind you. So tonight, I’m looking for an upgrade.
Kayla Braxton: Does Shayna Baszler know how you feel?
Ronda Rousey: She knows how I think. I’m not here to make friends or to be one of the girls. I’m here to win. I’m here to beat the best. If that means teaming up for one night with someone I don’t like, that works for me.
Kayla Braxton: Do you have someone in mind?
Ronda Rousey: Let’s just say that she’s going to be an improvement on Shayna in more ways than one.
Kayla Braxton: It seems you’re still upset after losing the belts…
Ronda Rousey: Guess what, genius, I’m a sore loser. Some of us aren’t used to that but I guarantee you that you won’t have to put up with that much longer because I intend to win. A lot. | 84
Ronda Rousey: Evening, Kayla. Let’s not waste any time. I’m here because I’m want to face Becky Lynch and Ginger tonight.
Kayla Braxton: You mean Alba Fyre. SummerSlam didn’t turn out the way you expected since you lost the Women’s Tag Team Championship. Is tonight’s main event an opportunity for you and your partner, Shayna Baszler, to bounce back?
Ronda Rousey: Look, Shayna and I, we’ve known each other for a long, long time. I think she’s got enough experience to realise when she messes up. At SummerSlam, she wasn’t at the level I expected, she wasn’t on my level – not that she ever was, mind you. So tonight, I’m looking for an upgrade.
Kayla Braxton: Does Shayna Baszler know how you feel?
Ronda Rousey: She knows how I think. I’m not here to make friends or to be one of the girls. I’m here to win. I’m here to beat the best. If that means teaming up for one night with someone I don’t like, that works for me.
Kayla Braxton: Do you have someone in mind?
Ronda Rousey: Let’s just say that she’s going to be an improvement on Shayna in more ways than one.
Kayla Braxton: It seems you’re still upset after losing the belts…
Ronda Rousey: Guess what, genius, I’m a sore loser. Some of us aren’t used to that but I guarantee you that you won’t have to put up with that much longer because I intend to win. A lot. | 84
BECKY LYNCH AND ALBA FYRE vs RONDA ROUSEY AND ????
vs ????
Mike Rome: The following tag team bout is set for one fall. Introducing first, from Dublin, Ireland… she is the SmackDown Women’s champion… The Man, Becky Lynch! And her tag team partner… from Glasgow, Scotland… Alba Fyre! And their opponents… first, from Santa Monica, California… she is the baddest woman on the planet… ‘Rowdy’ Ronda Rousey!
Michael Cole: Pat, you have to wonder who Rowdy Ronda Rousey chose as her partner tonight, after she ditched her long-time friend Shayna Baszler live on television.
Pat McAfee: She dropped her like a bad habit so I assume she’s already got someone lined up.
Mike Rome: And her tag team partner… from Columbus, Ohio…
Michael Cole: Oh, my…
Michael Cole: Pat, you have to wonder who Rowdy Ronda Rousey chose as her partner tonight, after she ditched her long-time friend Shayna Baszler live on television.
Pat McAfee: She dropped her like a bad habit so I assume she’s already got someone lined up.
Mike Rome: And her tag team partner… from Columbus, Ohio…
Michael Cole: Oh, my…
Mike Rome: Alexa Bliss!
Pat McAfee: Alright, that was… unexpected.
Michael Cole: Say that again. Alexa’s been feuding with Becky Lynch up until WrestleMania but there’s no love lost between Rousey and Bliss. Rousey took the title from her almost five years ago to this day at SummerSlam and Bliss’ career has never been the same since then.
Pat McAfee: Looks like they’re starting off the wrong foot. They can’t even agree on who will go first.
Michael Cole: Both are eager to test themselves against Lynch but, surprisingly, Bliss seems to be winning the argument. Match goes underway and The Man’s not wasting any time with a double leg takedown. Becky Lynch is hammering away at Alexa Bliss.
Pat McAfee: Bliss was still arguing with Rousey when the bell rang. She’s paying for it.
Michael Cole: Bliss, back a vertical base but Lynch sends her crashing into the corner before delivering a series of vicious kicks to the midsection.
Pat McAfee: She’s not giving Bliss any room to breathe.
Michael Cole: And Ronda barking orders probably doesn’t help… oh, DDT. Lynch just sent Bliss crashing head first into the canvas. 1… 2… Alexa kicks out. Lynch again with the punches but Bliss manages to get some separation.
Pat McAfee: She needs to find a way back or it’s going to be a short main event.
Michael Cole: Oh, wow! Lynch threw herself at Bliss with a clotheline but with such momentum that they both went crashing outside.
Pat McAfee: Becky’s in the wrong part of town…
Michael Cole: Rousey didn’t waste any time. She’s already trash-talking her rival… Becky pushes her away… Watch out! Gutwrench powerbomb! Ronda literally sent Becky through our announce table!
Pat McAfee: It’s a volatile situation… she’s already arguing with Bliss.
Michael Cole: Alba Fyre is looking a little lost on the other side of the ring. Hey, wait a minute… what are they… Ronda is getting into the referee’s face while Alexa… no, don’t do that!
Pat McAfee: Alexa Bliss has grabbed a chair and she’s squashing Becky Lynch!
Pat McAfee: Alright, that was… unexpected.
Michael Cole: Say that again. Alexa’s been feuding with Becky Lynch up until WrestleMania but there’s no love lost between Rousey and Bliss. Rousey took the title from her almost five years ago to this day at SummerSlam and Bliss’ career has never been the same since then.
Pat McAfee: Looks like they’re starting off the wrong foot. They can’t even agree on who will go first.
Michael Cole: Both are eager to test themselves against Lynch but, surprisingly, Bliss seems to be winning the argument. Match goes underway and The Man’s not wasting any time with a double leg takedown. Becky Lynch is hammering away at Alexa Bliss.
Pat McAfee: Bliss was still arguing with Rousey when the bell rang. She’s paying for it.
Michael Cole: Bliss, back a vertical base but Lynch sends her crashing into the corner before delivering a series of vicious kicks to the midsection.
Pat McAfee: She’s not giving Bliss any room to breathe.
Michael Cole: And Ronda barking orders probably doesn’t help… oh, DDT. Lynch just sent Bliss crashing head first into the canvas. 1… 2… Alexa kicks out. Lynch again with the punches but Bliss manages to get some separation.
Pat McAfee: She needs to find a way back or it’s going to be a short main event.
Michael Cole: Oh, wow! Lynch threw herself at Bliss with a clotheline but with such momentum that they both went crashing outside.
Pat McAfee: Becky’s in the wrong part of town…
Michael Cole: Rousey didn’t waste any time. She’s already trash-talking her rival… Becky pushes her away… Watch out! Gutwrench powerbomb! Ronda literally sent Becky through our announce table!
Pat McAfee: It’s a volatile situation… she’s already arguing with Bliss.
Michael Cole: Alba Fyre is looking a little lost on the other side of the ring. Hey, wait a minute… what are they… Ronda is getting into the referee’s face while Alexa… no, don’t do that!
Pat McAfee: Alexa Bliss has grabbed a chair and she’s squashing Becky Lynch!
Michael Cole: Becky is squirming on the ground, looking for a safe place but Alexa is relentless. My God, what a beating!
Pat McAfee: Alexa looks pleased with herself. She’s jumped on the Spanish announcers’ table and she’s taunting the fans.
Michael Cole: That’s probably not a good idea… hey, Fyre’s coming from behind and she’s taking out Bliss! The referee has absolutely no control on this match! And now Fyre’s banging Bliss’ head against the table.
Pat McAfee: Ironically, Ronda’s now asking the referee to do something.
Michael Cole: She’s setting her up for a powerbomb… You have got to be kidding me! Alexa Bliss countered with a code red! These women are wreaking havoc all over the place!
Pat McAfee: Ronda has decided it’s time for her to step in, she’s throwing Lynch back in and tags herself in. 1… 2… close but no cigar.
Michael Cole: Rousey is ordering Bliss to throw the chair in… she’s setting it up in the corner… and sends Lynch crashing head first into the steel. Cover again… 1… 2… Lynch kicks out at two and a half.
Pat McAfee: There’s chaos at ringside too where Fyre has sneaked up on Bliss again and she’s smashing her head against the post. Bliss looks out cold.
Michael Cole: Lynch and Rousey are slugging it out in the middle of the ring but it looks like Fyre has sinister intentions. She’s setting up Bliss on the barricade… what in the… oh, no! Don’t do that, Alba!
Pat McAfee: She’s going to the top rope! She’s going for the swanton bomb on the barricade!
Michael Cole: She’s going to break her back! No! What the hell?! Someone from the crowd pulled Alexa back at the last moment and Alba Fyre crashed into the barricade! My God! Somebody call for help!
Pat McAfee: It’s a warzone out there!
Michael Cole: What was meant to be an exhibition match is turning into a bloodbath! Lynch and Rousey could care less though. Lynch ducks a step-up jumping knee from Rousey… hammerlock inverted DDT. She hooks the leg… 1… Rousey kicks out. Becky is grabbing back the chair. The referee is pleading with her not to use it but… She’s putting it around Ronda’s neck… I don’t like where this is going. No way! Bex-plex into the corner with the chair! 1… 2… Ronda’s got her foot on the rope!
Pat McAfee: Look who’s back…
Michael Cole: Alexa Bliss is back at ringside. She tags in, evades a big right hand from Lynch… goes to the ropes… DDT! She planted Lynch right in the middle of the ring.
Pat McAfee: She’s telling the crowd she’s ready to finish it.
Michael Cole: She’s setting her up for a sister Abigail – Bray Wyatt’s finisher!
Pat McAfee: She’s taking too long…
Michael Cole: Becky Lynch is fighting back with everything she’s got. Headbutt hits Bliss straight on the bridge of the nose… manhandle slam! It’s over! 1… 2… 3! Lynch did it! She did it! She beat two of our biggest rivals almost on her own!
Pat McAfee: Alexa looks pleased with herself. She’s jumped on the Spanish announcers’ table and she’s taunting the fans.
Michael Cole: That’s probably not a good idea… hey, Fyre’s coming from behind and she’s taking out Bliss! The referee has absolutely no control on this match! And now Fyre’s banging Bliss’ head against the table.
Pat McAfee: Ironically, Ronda’s now asking the referee to do something.
Michael Cole: She’s setting her up for a powerbomb… You have got to be kidding me! Alexa Bliss countered with a code red! These women are wreaking havoc all over the place!
Pat McAfee: Ronda has decided it’s time for her to step in, she’s throwing Lynch back in and tags herself in. 1… 2… close but no cigar.
Michael Cole: Rousey is ordering Bliss to throw the chair in… she’s setting it up in the corner… and sends Lynch crashing head first into the steel. Cover again… 1… 2… Lynch kicks out at two and a half.
Pat McAfee: There’s chaos at ringside too where Fyre has sneaked up on Bliss again and she’s smashing her head against the post. Bliss looks out cold.
Michael Cole: Lynch and Rousey are slugging it out in the middle of the ring but it looks like Fyre has sinister intentions. She’s setting up Bliss on the barricade… what in the… oh, no! Don’t do that, Alba!
Pat McAfee: She’s going to the top rope! She’s going for the swanton bomb on the barricade!
Michael Cole: She’s going to break her back! No! What the hell?! Someone from the crowd pulled Alexa back at the last moment and Alba Fyre crashed into the barricade! My God! Somebody call for help!
Pat McAfee: It’s a warzone out there!
Michael Cole: What was meant to be an exhibition match is turning into a bloodbath! Lynch and Rousey could care less though. Lynch ducks a step-up jumping knee from Rousey… hammerlock inverted DDT. She hooks the leg… 1… Rousey kicks out. Becky is grabbing back the chair. The referee is pleading with her not to use it but… She’s putting it around Ronda’s neck… I don’t like where this is going. No way! Bex-plex into the corner with the chair! 1… 2… Ronda’s got her foot on the rope!
Pat McAfee: Look who’s back…
Michael Cole: Alexa Bliss is back at ringside. She tags in, evades a big right hand from Lynch… goes to the ropes… DDT! She planted Lynch right in the middle of the ring.
Pat McAfee: She’s telling the crowd she’s ready to finish it.
Michael Cole: She’s setting her up for a sister Abigail – Bray Wyatt’s finisher!
Pat McAfee: She’s taking too long…
Michael Cole: Becky Lynch is fighting back with everything she’s got. Headbutt hits Bliss straight on the bridge of the nose… manhandle slam! It’s over! 1… 2… 3! Lynch did it! She did it! She beat two of our biggest rivals almost on her own!
Winners by pinfall: Becky Lynch and Alba Fyre in 11:05 | 71
NO FURY LIKE A FRIEND SCORNED
Michael Cole: What a main event! Becky Lynch celebrations were cut short though as she immediately went to the EMTs to check on the unfortunate Alba Fyre.
Pat McAfee: Meanwhile, Bliss is getting an earful from Rousey. If looks could kill, these two would be six feet under already…
Michael Cole: Alexa’s never been one to be bossed around but… hey, someone’s is going over the barricade!
Pat McAfee: It’s the same spectator who helped Bliss earlier tonight.
Pat McAfee: Meanwhile, Bliss is getting an earful from Rousey. If looks could kill, these two would be six feet under already…
Michael Cole: Alexa’s never been one to be bossed around but… hey, someone’s is going over the barricade!
Pat McAfee: It’s the same spectator who helped Bliss earlier tonight.
Michael Cole: It’s Shayna Baszler! Baszler hit Rousey with a double axe handle and now Baszler and Bliss are working together on Rousey. It’s a right mugging.
Pat McAfee: Baszler’s locked the kirifuda clutch on her former tag team partner and Bliss is setting up the chair… that’s not looking good… she’s going upstairs…
Michael Cole: Twisted Bliss on the steel chair! And Shayna won’t release the hold. The officials are coming down to restore some order. We’re running out of time but this is probably far from over. Thanks for joining us! Good night everyone! | 67
Pat McAfee: Baszler’s locked the kirifuda clutch on her former tag team partner and Bliss is setting up the chair… that’s not looking good… she’s going upstairs…
Michael Cole: Twisted Bliss on the steel chair! And Shayna won’t release the hold. The officials are coming down to restore some order. We’re running out of time but this is probably far from over. Thanks for joining us! Good night everyone! | 67
Show rating: 78