Tag: 205 live results

WWE 205 Live results: Neville’s next challenger is decided

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Austin Aries defeated three other men to get another shot at Neville’s Cruiserweight title. Rich Swann, after defeating Oney Lorcan, said that he is the one sending gifts to Alicia Fox. Akira Tozawa turned the tables on Brian Kendrick, doing what he needed to pick up a win against him.

Show Recap —

They showed still footage of what went down at WrestleMania. Aries had Neville beat with the Last Chancery, but Neville took advantage of Aries’ injured orbital socket and picked up the win, retaining his championship.

Kendrick came out to start the show. He said he can’t believe Tozawa asked for this rematch. He claimed that rule number 10 is that it’s not about athleticism, but superior psychology. 

Akira Tozawa defeated Brian Kendrick

They had an alright match. Tozawa did a nice suicide dive on the outside at one point. He raked Kendrick’s eye while they were both on the top rope. Tozawa came back down but looked to injure his knee. Kendrick went to complain to the referee, then picked up Tozawa but he played possum and rolled up Kendrick for the win.

Tozawa told Kendrick he taught him lesson number one…which he didn’t explain. I guess that cheaters always prosper, or something.

Rich Swann defeated Oney Lorcan

Lorcan jumped Swann right at the bell, unleashing a big European uppercut to the corner. Lorcan went for a half nelson suplex off the top rope but Swann landed on his feet. Lorcan grabbed him and hit a running Alabama slam into the corner. Swann came back, hitting a hurricanrana off the top rope and then pinning Lorcan with a phoenix splash.

This was really good, with Lorcan showing some great, crisp offense.

Swann took a mic after the match and talked about how Alicia Fox has been getting presents for the last few weeks. Noam Dar has been taking credit for them, but it wasn’t Dar who was delivering those gifts — it was Swann. He left it at that.

Mustafa Ali was heading to the ring when Drew Gulak stopped him. Ali said he doesn’t buy what Gulak is selling. Gulak said all he wants to do is to give him one last chance to be on the right side of history. Ali walked past him, letting Gulak know how he feels.

Trent Seven, Mark Andrews, Wolfgang, Pete Dunne, and Tyler Bate all appeared on stage. They will be touring with the 205 Live crew in England on May 6th and 7th.

Neville came out and said there is no one on his level, and it feels good being right. He told everyone not to buy into the rumors about him gouging Aries’ eye out of desperation — he did it because he deserved it. He wanted to thank each and every person in the audience for never believing in him, they lit a fire in his belly and he became royalty. 

He thanked Aries, then the entire 205 Live roster because their futile efforts to take the title off him have only bolstered his reputation. He’ll take a ringside seat tonight to watch the number one contender’s bout.

Austin Aries defeated Mustafa Ali, Jack Gallagher, and TJ Perkins to earn a Cruiserweight title shot

Ali took everyone out with a triple neckbreaker, which was pretty cool. They followed that with a tower of doom spot. Aries went to suplex Ali but got out of the way so Gallagher could fly right into Ali’s temple, sending him careening to the outside.

TJP hit the detonation kick but Gallagher came back with a headbutt. Aries dispatched Gallagher to the outside then pinned TJP with the five-arm. There have been better multi-man bouts, but this was still pretty good and had its moments.

Final Thoughts —

This was a solid show following WrestleMania. No new programs seem to be on the horizon, save for whatever Gulak/Ali is developing into, which is kind of a shame. Lorcan is a nice addition to the roster, but it remains unclear if this was just a one time thing or a call up.

It was nothing revolutionary, but a serviceable show with a hotter crowd than usual.

WWE 205 Live results: Neville & Austin Aries continue their feud

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Neville showed us what 205 Live would be like without him. Brian Kendrick once again gained the upper hand against Akira Tozawa. Alicia Fox likes to eat perfume.

Show Recap —

We opened with footage from last night’s Raw, where Austin Aries and The New Day ran down Neville. Dasha Fuentes interviewed Neville, who said Austin Aries made a crucial error last night — he disrespected the Cruiserweight Championship.

Neville said that everyone wants to see his reign as King of the Cruiserweights end on Sunday, so tonight he’s going to give people what they want — a 205 Live without Neville.

Rich Swann defeated Ariya Daivari 

Swann was in control early until Daivari lifted him up and slammed him on the outside onto a table. Swann rallied back and hit a Michinoku driver for a near fall. Daivari shoved Swann into the ref and came back with a neckbreaker, then hit a frog splash for another close near fall.

Swann took out Daivari from the top rope with a hurricanrana, then pinned him after a phoenix splash. This was a solid match, but nothing to write home about.

Tom Phillips noted after the match that Daivari was the replacement for Noam Dar, who is out due to injury.

Alicia Fox was backstage being interviewed about Dar’s recovery when Swann said it was a shame he couldn’t face Dar. A package then came in, and it was perfume. Fox sprayed it on herself, then when no one was looking, except the camera in front of her, ate it.

Mustafa Ali was backstage warming up when Drew Gulak walked up to him and said that his in-ring ability will put him on the map, but is it the right way? Ali said that yeah, it’s worth it because of the 205 Live fans being behind him whenever he’s doing high flying impact moves. Gulak started to go on a long speech about a grassroots approach back to traditional wrestling, but Ali frustrated Gulak by leaving before he could finish. 

Mustafa Ali defeated Brandon Scott

This was mostly a showcase for Ali, who looked good while the match lasted. Gulak observed the match through the monitor backstage. Scott had a brief comeback but missed a punch off the top rope. Ali pinned him with the inverted 450 splash. Gulak didn’t like that.

They ran a video package on the Cruiserweight title match for WrestleMania.

Brian Kendrick defeated Akira Tozawa

Tozawa unleashed early with a fierce tope suicida, wiping out Kendrick on the outside. He then followed with a giant senton on the inside for a near fall. Tozawa went for the snap German suplex but Kendrick escaped to the outside. Tozawa unleashed another tope suicida. Kendrick finally got the upper hand after a drop toe hold onto the steel rampway.

Tozawa made it to the ring, but Kendrick gained dominance, grinding down Tozawa with a crossface. Tozawa came back with a standing hurricanrana. Kendrick hit the Sliced Bread #2, then followed with the Captain’s Hook, but Tozawa grabbed the bottom rope.

Tozawa caught Kendrick on the top rope as he was undoing the turnbuckle but got shoved off. Tozawa countered him with a kick and went to charge into the corner, but Kendrick dodged as Tozawa ate the turnbuckle. Kendrick rolled him up for the pinfall.

Lesson number nine, Kendrick said, is that everything can be used as a weapon. 

Neville arrived to the ring to do some talking. Five days away from WrestleMania, he’s at a crossroads. He’s not somebody who takes it easy. He’s someone who’s belittled time after time. Last year, he broke his ankle and missed his first opportunity at WrestleMania. He picked himself back up again and landed on 205 Live and carried this division on his back. 

But instead of cheering him, he said the fans would rather cheer for a commentary clown. He showed footage of a world without Neville on 205 Live. The screen was blank. Neville said that’s right, without him 205 Live is nothing and WrestleMania is not about you, it’s about Neville and having Neville’s moment.

Austin Aries came out. He said this right here is the difference between you and me. Neville wanted to point his finger at the WWE Universe simply to feed his own ego. He’d never say Neville isn’t amazing; but Aries is just that much better. He has jokes for days, but if he didn’t use jokes, he’d just be as angry as Neville.

He continued, saying for years we’ve had to prove everyone wrong. We had to take because no one handed anything to us. We have a big ego and chips on our shoulders. The thing we have in common more than anything else is that we are the main attraction.

Neville jumped him in mid-sentence and threw him face-first on the floor. Neville went to leave, but paused. He came back to finish things. Aries instead smacked Neville with a microphone and sent him reeling as the show ended.

Final Thoughts —

The last segment was really good, with Neville continuing to showcase how remarkably improved he is at cutting promos, something he was never good at on NXT. Aries is at least making people interested in this match, which is really hard for 205 Live, but they managed to do it. 

The rest of the show was usual fare. No idea why Tozawa lost here, but maybe that just means the feud will continue. Or it won’t. Not much matters in the WWE midcard.

WWE 205 Live results: Neville battles Mustafa Ali

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Neville cemented his status as King of the Cruiserweights by defeating Mustafa Ali in convincing fashion, much to the chagrin of Austin Aries. Brian Kendrick continued to gain the upper hand on Tozawa through mind games. Noam Dar tried to find the source of Alicia Fox’s gifts while claiming them as his own, and Tony Nese defeated TJP in a one-on-one bout.

Show Recap —

We started off with Neville being interviewed by Dasha Fuentes. She asked why he requested a match against Mustafa Ali tonight. He said that the locker room needed to know why Neville was the King of the Cruiserweights.

He then ran down Austin Aries, saying that he probably wouldn’t learn tonight’s lesson, but at WrestleMania he will make him bow down to the King of the Cruiserweights. 

Tom Phillips and Corey Graves are on commentary for tonight’s show.

Tony Nese defeated TJ Perkins

TJP controlled early, wiping out Nese on the outside with a corkscrew. Nese countered with a gutbuster and worked over TJP. To say this wasn’t exciting would be an understatement. TJP eventually floated over Nese and landed a neckbreaker.

Some good back and forth followed until Nese cut off TJP and went for the running strike in the corner. TJP countered with an armbar, but Nese escaped. Nese German suplexed TJP into the exposed turnbuckle, which Nese undid earlier, then followed with the running knee for the win. This improved as time went on, but felt a little long and the crowd wasn’t that into it.

Drew Gulak was backstage with Dasha, who asked him about his comments last week about 205 Live having a problem. He said there is, and it needs to change. He said the WWE Universe are directly at fault for this, cheering for all the high level action. Athletes act like glorified stuntmen, and so on. He eventually thanked Dasha for her time.

Akira Tozawa defeated Alex Reynolds

Tozawa pinned him quickly with the German suplex.

Tozawa wanted Kendrick after the match. He started to leave, but Kendrick jumped him, dressed as a security guard. Kendrick planted him with the Sliced Bread off the apron as he told him about rule number eight, which is appearances can be deceiving.

Rich Swann and Jack Gallagher were backstage when Noam Dar and Ariya Daivari showed up. Dar was wondering about a dress. Swann said hey, whatever you do in the privacy of your own home is none of our business. Dar said he stopped a courier from delivering this to Alicia Fox, saying that one more gift from him would be overkill.

Swann asked what that has to do with them. Dar said he’s trying to sort this out like gentlemen, but Swann is being annoying so next week he’ll take care of him. Swann said fine, but Dar can’t handle this.

Austin Aries came out. Since last night’s interview with Neville went so poorly, tonight he’ll eliminate the one thing that made it go poorly — Neville.

He proceeded to ask himself his own questions. Why do you think Neville repeatedly calls himself the King of the Cruiserweights? He thinks he’s overcompensating. Why do you think you’re on Neville’s level? Well, he’s not — he’s above him. What is the most embarrassing thing he discovered about Neville while being a journalist?

We never got that answer as Neville made his way out. Aries called him a Debbie Downer, and said that’s why no one likes you. This got a “Debbie Downer” chant. Neville told him to scuttle off. Aries started to oblige, but came back and said he’s been invited to do color commentary for the main event.

Neville defeated Mustafa Ali

Neville dominated early until Ali hit a twisting crossbody off the turnbuckle onto the outside. Ali went for a tornado DDT but Neville held on and instead crotched Ali on the ropes. Ali springboarded across the corner of the ropes and hit a standing Spanish Fly off the top rope in a really cool spot.

Ali went for something off the top rope, but saw Neville recovering and instead spiked him with a DDT. He went for the imploding 450 again but Neville made it to the apron. Neville caught Ali on the top rope again and hit a German suplex off the top rope, with Ali landing face first.  

Neville paused, then dragged Ali to the outside where he swung him into the ring post. He dragged Ali over to Aries, said “this is you,” and threw him back in the ring where he quickly submitted him with the Rings of Saturn. This was a pretty good match, with Ali looking strong while also cementing Neville as the man to beat at WrestleMania.

Final Thoughts —

This continued the build towards WrestleMania, as well as the feuds going on and off over the last few weeks. They’re also doing something with Gulak, but I didn’t really get an impression of what they’re doing with him yet, which makes me not care all that much.

The rest of the programs going on right now on 205 Live aren’t revolutionary, or even hot for that matter, but the main event was pretty decent and none of the work tonight felt like it dragged for too long.

WWE 205 Live results: Fatal five-way elimination main event

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Austin Aries won a fatal five-way elimination match, earning a Cruiserweight title shot against Neville at WrestleMania. Alicia Fox continues to get gifts from a mysterious benefactor, all while Noam Dar attempts to claim the gifts as his own. Mustafa Ali continued to build momentum, scoring a win over an increasingly frustrated Drew Gulak.

Show Recap —

Neville started out the show, talking about how he was robbed of his WrestleMania moment last year, and to top it all off he had been forgotten by each and every member of the WWE Universe. He said people in the five-way tonight vying to win a shot at his title are irrelevant. At WrestleMania, he will make them regret having such foolish ambitions.

Mustafa Ali’s music hit, and he glanced at Neville as he headed to the ring to start off tonight’s in-ring action.

Mustafa Ali defeated Drew Gulak

This had quick action and was mostly just a backdrop to showcase Ali. He comes off as someone they can do something with — he has some charisma, a unique moveset, and has a cool finisher. He picked up the win with the inverted 450 splash.

Gulak wasn’t happy after the match, taking a mic to vent. He said week after week he does his best work in that ring and that he’s tired of being frustrated. He’s not the problem, he is not the one that needs to change. The problem is 205 Live, and this needs to change.

Ariya Daivari was getting ready backstage when Noam Dar walked in, saying he’s tired of Rich Swann getting the one up on him, hence why he requested a rematch tonight. Daivari said he doesn’t need a motivational speech. Dar said they need to win this tonight.

Noam Dar & Ariya Daivari defeated Jack Gallagher & Rich Swann

This had good action, especially when Swann was in, but the crowd was just dead for this match. Swann was distracted by Daivari and walked right into an enzuigiri by Dar for the win.

Dar said each week he spoils Alicia Fox with beautiful gifts. The real gifts, however, cannot be bought — they come from the heart. And tonight, his gift to Alicia was this win…and a teddy bear that was randomly delivered right in the middle of the sentence. The mystery man mystery continues.

Austin Aries defeated Brian Kendrick, Akira Tozawa, Tony Nese, and TJ Perkins in a fatal five-way elimination match to become the number one contender for the Cruiserweight title

The early part of the match had mostly everyone out of the ring while others traded submissions on the mat. Aries went up on the top rope but Kendrick shoved him down near the barricade. Nese followed that up with a running knee into Aries, his head smashing into the barricade.

In the ring, TJP eliminated Nese with the armbar. Nese didn’t like that and laid out TJP. Tozawa took him out, but Kendrick flew in, grabbed an unsuspecting Tozawa, and planted him with the Sliced Bread to eliminate him.

Kendrick continued his spree by sinking in the Captain’s Hook on TJP, but he escaped as they made their way to the top rope. Aries came in and took them both down. Kendrick soon managed to get TJP back in the Captain’s Hook and submitted him. Kendrick then put it on Aries but TJP broke it up. Aries tried to go for the roaring elbow but instead struck TJP.

Kendrick followed that by hitting Sliced Bread but Aries kicked out. Once again, the Captain’s Hook was applied by Kendrick. Aries made it to the ropes but it couldn’t be broken as it’s an elimination match.

They both got up on their feet, but Aries was the first to react, hitting the roaring elbow and pinning Kendrick to become the number one contender.

Final Thoughts —

This was a dead show for the most part; this was one of those weeks where the crowd just didn’t seem to care, though it picked up in parts for the main event. With the WrestleMania match for this program now set, I’m looking forward to seeing how momentum continues to build toward Aries heading into the grandaddy of them a-er, I mean, the Ultimate Thrill Ride, WrestleMania.

WWE 205 Live results: Austin Aries returns to the ring

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Austin Aries made the transition from announcer to in-ring competitor, taking on and defeating Tony Nese in the main event. He’s made it clear that he wants Neville’s Cruiserweight Championship, but Neville has his own plans for the title match at WrestleMania.

Alicia Fox continues to get lovely gifts, and while Noam Dar says they’re from him — are they really? Brian Kendrick continued to play mind games with Akira Tozawa, who again was denied a match against Kendrick.

Show Recap —

They opened up with the big Raw angle from yesterday, where Austin Aries sent Neville reeling after being constantly berated by him during an interview.

Mauro Ranallo and Corey Graves are calling the action tonight. 

Austin Aries started the show, conducting his own interview. He talked about how as a kid he was told if you wanted to make a statement, go to the strongest guy in the room and punch him in the face. That guy now? Neville. He declared that Austin Aries, expert journalist, is no more as the expert in-ring competitor is here.

This brought out Neville. He thought last night was a lapse in judgment, but now thinks Aries has gone off the deep end. He asked if Aries thinks he’s on his level. Aries said he doesn’t think he’s at his level, because Neville is at the A level while he is at the double A level.

Neville said think of your next career move wisely. Aries said he doesn’t need to be at the commentator’s table, in fact Neville can come down here to the ring and make it two days in a row where he got punched out.

Neville said Aries doesn’t have the right to share the ring with him, in fact he doesn’t even need a finger to lay a hand on him. After all, Aries has made plenty of enemies in the back. Neville won’t fight him, but said there’s a locker room out there ready to do just that. Aries said he makes plenty of checks and cashes them in every time, so he’s calling out anyone who feels that way.

Rich Swann and Jack Gallagher were backstage when Noam Dar walked in, saying their gestures were cute, but not as cute as Alicia Fox. Dar was wondering who bought those flowers for Fox last week. Swann said he thought Dar bought them.

Dar walked that back, saying of course he did, he just wanted to make sure they take notice about his match later tonight, because one day they might just come across someone as wonderful as Alicia Fox. 

Jack Gallagher & Rich Swann defeated Ariya Daivari & Noam Dar 

This was pretty decent, but just a standard WWE tag team match. Gallagher headbutted Daivari then laid him out with a running dropkick. Swann followed that with a kick and the phoenix splash for the win. 

After the match, a guy walked out and delivered a heart-shaped box of chocolates to Fox. Dar frantically took a mic and said the guy was late, then said no chocolate in the world was sweeter than Alicia Fox. It seems like they’re building up some sort of mystery admirer gimmick. 

Brian Kendrick was interviewed, saying that if Akira Tozawa wanted a fight, he was going to get one.

Akira Tozawa made his way to the ring. Brian Kendrick followed, but remained on the outside. He said he was a man of his word, saying Tozawa would fight a Brian Kendrick — but the guy he’s facing spells his name “Bryan Kendrick.” So he’s not fighting The Brian Kendrick, but A Bryan Kendrick.

Akira Tozawa defeated A Bryan Kendrick

Tozawa finished Bryan quickly with a snap German suplex.

Dasha Fuentes interviewed Neville, asking what he expects out there tonight between Austin Aries and his announced opponent, Tony Nese. Neville asked if she didn’t hear what he said out there earlier. He put down Aries again and brought up that Nese is no walk in the park. He said only one man will face him at WrestleMania, and next week that will be decided on 205 Live.

Austin Aries defeated Tony Nese

Aries controlled the match early. He hit his knee on the outside while landing, but quickly recovered. Nese caught Aries on the top rope, put him in the torture rack position, and laid him out with a gutbuster.

Aries came back and hit the pendulum elbow. Nese countered with a deadlift one-armed powerbomb. Aries took control again, hitting a suicide dive to the outside and finished off Nese with the roaring elbow for the win.

This was a good match and a great showcase for Aries as he instantly came off as looking like someone who should be in the top mix.

Final Thoughts —

This was a good show, doing a great job of transitioning Aries from a commentator to a top guy in this division looking for his title shot. 

It should be interesting to see how the WrestleMania match develops; it very much looks like it will be Aries vs. Neville, which sounds like the best match you can do for 205 Live’s biggest match of the year. The question is, where would that leave the other cruiserweights?

WWE 205 Live results: Neville & Jack Gallagher build to Fastlane

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Jack Gallagher and Neville furthered their feud going into Fastlane, ending 205 Live with a big brawl that saw Gallagher get the better of it. Akira Tozawa challenged Brian Kendrick, but Kendrick decided to fight on his own terms. Tony Nese, Drew Gulak & Ariya Daivari emerged victorious over Mustafa Ali, TJ Perkins & Cedric Alexander.

Show Recap —

The show started with Tom Phillips interviewing Jack Gallagher, asking what he expects from Neville’s address later tonight. Gallagher said he’s expecting the usual, Neville berating the WWE Universe, things like that, but at Fastlane he’ll walk out the WWE Cruiserweight Champion.

Noam Dar defeated Lince Dorado

This didn’t last long, but was good while it lasted. It was all action. Alicia Fox had flowers at ringside. Dorado looked good on offense, but ate a kick and was pinned. 

After the match, Dar said these flowers can’t compare to the sweetness of Alicia Fox. 

Austin Aries introduced Akira Tozawa as they showed highlights of Tozawa turning down Brian Kendrick. Aries questioned Tozawa, who said that he wants to do it on his own. They then showed footage of Tozawa being jumped by Kendrick. Aries asked Tozawa what he’s going to do about it, and Tozawa said he wants to fight him right now. 

This brought out Kendrick. He said, “What makes you think I’ll fight you on your terms?” Kendrick claimed that he’s the man with the plan, and will fight under his own terms. He called Tozawa a brat for rejecting his offer.

Tozawa tried to respond, but Kendrick cut him off, saying he wants Tozawa to speak in English because he’s just like the rest of these Minnesotans who can’t speak it. He then bailed, ultimately rejecting Tozawa’s challenge.

Tony Nese, Drew Gulak & Ariya Daivari defeated Mustafa Ali, TJ Perkins & Cedric Alexander

Really good match, it had nothing but action throughout. Everyone looked good and the action never slowed. More matches like these need to be on this show as it separates them from everyone else.

Daivari and Gulak got dumped to the floor. Ali wiped them out with a crossbody off the top rope. TJP looked to follow with a big dive of his own, but Nese grabbed him, dragged him out, and slammed him against the announcer’s table. Gulak wore down TJP with a modified Gory special that looked pretty cool. 

Ali took out Gulak with a neckbreaker and went for the inverted 450 splash, but a distraction by Daivari allowed Gulak to take advantage. Alexander took everyone out with a big dive to the floor.

Ali hit a tornado DDT then followed with the inverted 450 splash, but Daivari put Gulak’s feet on the ropes. Ali was distracted enough that it allowed Gulak to lay out Ali with a German suplex to the ring post. Nese and TJP were tagged in. TJP got taken out from the top rope by Gulak, which allowed Nese to hit a running knee strike in the corner for the win.

An Austin Aries video package was shown once again.  

Neville came out to talk about Fastlane. He said we need a history lesson. Mediocrity reigned until he came in. He changed the landscape of 205 Live but has received nothing but resentment. They applauded people like Gallagher. He claimed that we will witness a public execution at Fastlane.

Gallagher then came out. He said this isn’t a history lesson, but more like a public meltdown. He asked if Neville would like some tea and biscuits. The crowd chanted for tea and biscuits, but Neville didn’t like that, saying he could take him out tonight instead of Fastlane.

Neville said that this is his ring. Gallagher disagreed, saying that this ring belongs to all of them, the WWE Universe. They eventually got into a brawl, ending with Gallagher landing a running dropkick to the barricade, sending Neville reeling as the show went off the air.

Final Thoughts —

Good show. There needs to be more six-man matches on this show as it was one of the better matches on 205 Live in a while, plus the crowd was into it (and the show in general) which is always nice. The confrontation at the end of the show was fine, and it all builds well to Fastlane.

By the way…has anyone seen Gran Metalik? Anyone?

WWE 205 Live results: Jack Gallagher vs. Tony Nese

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Jack Gallagher continued his momentum by defeating Tony Nese in the main event. Brian Kendrick took the easy way out in securing a countout win over Akira Tozawa. Noam Dar defeated Mustafa Ali with Rich Swann on his mind, and Austin Aries introduced his own highlight package, apparently indicating he’ll make his in-ring debut soon.

Show Recap —

We started off with a recap of the Raw contract signing from last night. Neville called Jack Gallagher a caricature of what Americans view Englishmen as, but Gallagher said he was raised this way, this is who he is. Neville pie-faced him and it led to a brawl, with Neville being sent reeling.

The Brian Kendrick defeated Akira Tozawa by countout

This was fine while it lasted, but you knew this was going to lead to this kind of finish. Tozawa had the advantage early. Kendrick smacked Tozawa’s head against the ring post for heat. Tozawa came back with a great suicide dive to the floor.

Kendrick escaped under the ring. Tozawa tried to drag him out, but Kendrick smacked Tozawa’s head on the mat and tied up his feet for the countout. Tom Phillips asked if the win tonight was enough for him. Kendrick said no, Tozawa has been disrespecting him and tonight he learned a lesson.

Dasha Fuentes was with Noam Dar. She asked if he felt uncomfortable about what happened last week when Rich Swann dissed Alicia Fox. He said no, but Swann should be ashamed.

Noam Dar defeated Mustafa Ali

Solid match. It’s pretty disappointing they can’t do something more with Ali as I think he’s far more talented than his push would indicate, but that is the lay of the land.

Ali launched off with a big tope con hilo. Dar kicked Ali in the shin, falling flat on his face on the apron for heat. Dar honed in on the arm and worked it over. Ali tried for the imploding 450 splash but Dar escaped under the ropes. Ali lifted up Dar, but Dar instead kicked him from below, sending Ali face first into the turnbuckle. Dar followed with a knee strike for the win.

Austin Aries cut off Corey Graves and said there have been many impressive superstars on 205 Live, but nothing like this guy. And hey, in fact, it’s an Austin Aries highlight reel. If and when he decides to climb back in the ring, he says, he will be on top.

Jack Gallagher was exercising backstage with his umbrella when Dasha came up and asked how he’ll prepare for tonight’s match. He said consider tonight a preview of what will go down at Fastlane.

Jack Gallagher defeated Tony Nese

Pretty good match. The crowd was dead for a lot of it, but once Gallagher did the headbutt people got into it. Nese worked over Gallagher at the start of the match. Gallagher reversed Nese into a roll-up then headbutted him to a huge reaction.

They fought on the top rope as Nese fell in a tree of woe position, but he came back and landed a Spider German suplex. Gallagher came back and planted Nese with a big time superplex. Gallagher followed that with the running dropkick and scored the win.

Final Thoughts —

This was a by the numbers show. Nothing bad, but nothing memorable, either. The build to the Cruiserweight title match was pretty good on Raw, but no Neville the next night was pretty weird. Also, where was Gran Metalik, who made his debut last week? For a product that’s been labeled the most exciting show of the week, this episode really wasn’t.

WWE 205 Live results: Gran Metalik debuts

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Neville defeated TJ Perkins in the main event, continuing to further his momentum, though Jack Gallagher sent him packing to close out the show. Gran Metalik made his 205 Live debut, defeating Drew Gulak. Rich Swann returned from injury, and Akira Tozawa made it clear he wanted nothing to do with Brian Kendrick.

Show Recap —

Rich Swann took the mic before the opening match, mentioning Alicia Fox’s name and telling her you can’t handle this. Neither Fox nor Dar liked that.

Rich Swann defeated Noam Dar

Very good match, and the last few minutes were great. This was the best Dar has looked since joining WWE.

Swann controlled much of the match early. Dar kicked Swann in the knee, which sent him tumbling off the middle rope to the floor. Dar gained the advantage until Swann took him out with a kick. A good back and forth contest went on until Swann laid out Dar and hit a phoenix splash for the win.

TJ Perkins and Neville were seated backstage as Corey Graves conducted an interview. Graves asked if Neville really does think Perkins is more of a threat than Jack Gallagher.

After some back and forth banter about the Cruiserweight Classic, Neville said that Perkins isn’t at his level. TJP said Neville’s arrogance will be his downfall. Perkins said he was making a name for himself while…well, was Neville even on Raw at all then? He doesn’t seem to remember. Neville said by the end of tonight, he’ll regret those words.

Next we saw a highlight reel for Gran Metalik, including him losing to TJP in the finals of the CWC. He said Perkins was a great wrestler, but he was disappointed in how things turned out. He said this is a beautiful opportunity, and the best is here.

Gran Metalik defeated Drew Gulak

This was a mixed bag, as for the most part it was fine with Metalik doing some good stuff and he did fine in showcasing his work, but there were spots in this match that were pretty rough.

Gulak jumped Metalik early. Metalik slipped on the ropes and Gulak took advantage. Metalik came back and did some good offense. Gulak cut him off with a boot as Metalik was coming off the turnbuckle. Metalik came back with the brillo Metalik, a step-over senton. He followed with the Metalik Driver to end the bout.

Akira Tozawa was backstage when Brian Kendrick came up to him, mentioning how he might be a bit intimidated being mentored by a legend like him.

Kendrick wanted to know if he would be his protege. Tozawa said no. Kendrick said that he realizes there might be a language barrier, so he asked him again. Tozawa said he understands, he just doesn’t like him. He walked off as Kendrick fumed.

Neville defeated TJ Perkins

This was just as good as the opener, but the crowd was absolutely dead for this match, except at one point during the bout where they chanted “Austin Aries.” The work was there, but the crowd wasn’t.

There was some good back and forth early until Neville gained control and wore down TJP. He floated over Neville and laid him out with a neckbreaker, dropkicked Neville on the apron, and leapt off the ropes with a springboard DDT. TJP tried to work an arm, but Neville deadlifted him and countered with a sit-out powerbomb.

Neville caught TJP on the top rope and tried for the superplex, but TJP threw him off. Neville caught him coming off and tried to lock on his new submission but TJP countered into a roll-up. Neville drilled him with an enzuigiri, then laid him out with the double arm submission and TJP had no other alternative but to tap out.

Jack Gallagher came out with his umbrella, running to the ring. Neville jumped him as he slid in. Neville threw out the umbrella, but this allowed Gallagher to make a comeback, sending Neville reeling with a headbutt. He seethed as the show closed.

Final Thoughts —

Good show with a lot of great action, especially in the opener and main event. I think the guys are becoming more comfortable with doing what they can under WWE parameters as the match quality has improved noticeably in recent weeks.

Not everything was smooth in Metalik’s debut, but he was still pretty over, at least as over as you can be on 205 Live. It should be interesting to see how Gallagher fares in a big time title match.

WWE 205 Live results: Fatal five-way determines a number one contender

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Jack Gallagher bested four other men to get a title shot against Neville at Fastlane. Brian Kendrick has taken a liking to Akira Tozawa, a swift reversal from last week, but still faces problems with Tajiri.

Show Recap —

It was announced by Austin Aries tonight that Tony Nese tweaked his knee on Raw, and therefore was out of tonight’s main event. Corey Graves said that they promised a fatal five-way, and they’ll deliver as the winner of the upcoming Mustafa Ali vs. Ariya Daivari match will advance to the fatal five-way later tonight.

Mustafa Ali defeated Ariya Daivari

Solid back and forth match. Daivari did a cool hammerlock clothesline at one point for a near fall. Ali hit a tornado DDT, then followed with the imploding 450 splash for the pinfall.

Gran Metalik arrives next week. That was quick!

Brian Kendrick came out for his match against Lince Dorado. Kendrick said he is here to snuff out people’s dreams, but made an exception for the young upstart of Akira Tozawa. He said he better be watching in the back, because someday he could be the protege for The Brian Kendrick.

Brian Kendrick defeated Lince Dorado

Good, competitive match. Dorado went for a springboard stunner but when he went for the shooting star press Kendrick got his knees up. He followed with a crucifix, then when Dorado kicked out followed with the Captain’s Hook for the win.

Austin Aries wanted to know why Kendrick changed his mind on Tozawa. Kendrick said there’s just something different about him, and wanted to bring him out. Instead, Tajiri’s music hit. As Kendrick was distracted, Tajiri snuck in from behind and misted him when he turned around.

Neville cut a promo. He ran down everyone in the fatal five-way. He said he’s taken care of TJ Perkins, Jack Gallagher is an embarrassment to England, Mustafa Ali still has a long way to go, and so on. He said no matter who wins, they will bend a knee and respect the King of the Cruiserweights.

Jack Gallagher defeated Cedric Alexander, TJ Perkins, Mustafa Ali, and Noam Dar in a fatal five-way elimination match

Great main event, it was full of action and high spots which you don’t see too often on 205 Live. As a result, the crowd was into this more than any other cruiserweight match in some time.

Gallagher wiped out everyone early by grabbing his umbrella and flew off with a senton off the top rope. Alexander looked good early, eliminating Dar with the Lumbar Check. Ali kicked out of a standing Spanish Fly. Perkins caught Alexander on the top rope and hit a detonation kick to eliminate him. Ali missed the imploding 450 splash on Gallagher and Perkins capitalized by submitting Ali with an armlock.

Perkins put Gallagher in the kneelock but he made it to the ropes. Perkins hit the detonation kick but Gallagher followed with a headbutt for a near fall. Gallagher landed another headbutt, then hit the running dropkick in the corner for the pinfall.

That makes it Jack Gallagher vs. Neville for the Cruiserweight title at Fastlane.

Gallagher was celebrating when Neville made his way to the stage, staring down at Gallagher. He held the title high as the show closed.

Final Thoughts —

This was a really good show, with the crowd getting into the fatal five-way match and making it one of the better matches on 205 Live thus far. We also saw some nice progression with the Kendrick/Tajiri/Tozawa storyline. It will be interesting to see how Gran Metalik’s debut goes next week as well.

WWE 205 Live results: Akira Tozawa debuts

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway — 

After Neville abandoned him, Noam Dar fell to Cedric Alexander and Jack Gallagher in the main event. Akira Tozawa made his debut, with an intrigued Brian Kendrick looking on. Tony Nese continued to rack up momentum with another win, though TJ Perkins made the save when he went overboard after the match.

Show Recap —

Tony Nese defeated Lince Dorado

This wasn’t much. Just another match to get Nese over. Austin Aries brought up his interview from Raw last night, saying Nese is good but not great. Nese was in control early. Dorado mounted a comeback, including a springboard stunner. Dorado tried for something on the top rope, but Nese shoved him down face first, then eventually picked up the win with the running knee to the corner.

Nese wasn’t about to let things lie, going for another knee strike when TJ Perkins’ music hit and he made the save, sending Nese reeling with a kick.

They replayed Neville’s coronation from last night, specifically the parts where Rich Swann and Neville exchanged words, leading to Swann sending Neville off with a suicide dive.

Backstage, Tom Phillips brought up that Swann suffered an ankle injury last night. Swann explained that as soon as the adrenaline wore off, he took off his boot and found out he was injured. Swann said as soon as he is healed, he’ll come back for his title.

Neville showed up and asked when Swann is going to learn his place. He suggested that Swann stays down next time. Swann said bum ankle or not, Neville is never going to keep him down. Neville said “I’ll beg to differ” in response and shoved him down.

Gran Metalik is coming soon, taking the place of Akira Tozawa as the next guy to debut I guess.

The Brian Kendrick was on commentary for the next match.

Akira Tozawa defeated Aaron Solow

Nice highlight reel for Tozawa. He did a suicide dive to the outside, and soon after got the win with a snap German suplex.

Austin Aries, in ring, asked Tozawa if he can speak English and asked him to say something to the WWE Universe. Tozawa responded in Japanese. Kendrick, on commentary, congratulated him.

Neville was backstage when Noam Dar and Alicia Fox walked in. I watch this show every week and didn’t even realize they were a legit couple until now. Dar was going on about the match when Neville cut him off. He said he never asked Dar for his help and he doesn’t need it tonight, so don’t screw this up.

Dar said whatever he says goes. Neville added that he doesn’t care about his love life so leave the baggage at home. Fox didn’t like that.

Jack Gallagher & Cedric Alexander defeated Noam Dar & Neville

Pretty good TV main event. Nice story where everyone had their role. Gallagher escaped a headlock early by standing on his hands and walking away in a cool spot. Neville worked him over; good action as they have some good chemistry.

Dar came in and continued the assault. Gallagher finally laid out Dar with a headbutt. Dar made a comeback and tried to tag in Neville, but he bailed, saying he had his chance. Alexander was tagged in and cleaned house. Dar tried to escape, but Gallagher threw him back in and Alexander finished it off with the Lumbar Check for the win.

Final Thoughts —

This was a pretty solid show, though in the large scale of things it was a holding pattern episode. Tozawa looked fine in his debut, they started the hype for Gran Metalik, and the main event had some solid action.

It seems like Neville and Swann is still the program for now, so it makes sense to keep things on hold for a bit until he’s healed.

WWE 205 Live results: Neville vs. Cedric Alexander

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Neville defeated Cedric Alexander in the main event, continuing to build momentum towards his Cruiserweight title match against Rich Swann on Sunday. Brian Kendrick continued to pick up wins over local competitors. TJP has found a new rival in Tony Nese, who made it perfectly clear that it wasn’t over between them. Akira Tozawa will be making his 205 Live debut next week.

Show Recap —

We started off with a look at last night’s Raw, where Rich Swann attacked Neville after Neville backed down from a challenge. Backstage, Tom Phillips asked Neville if he was afraid Swann was gaining too much momentum.

Neville said him being attacked was his mistake, he let it happen and he wouldn’t make that same mistake twice. When Phillips mentioned Neville’s match against Cedric Alexander tonight, Neville said he’s looking forward to it, as we will kneel tonight to the King of the Cruiserweights.

TJ Perkins defeated Tony Nese

Solid match. TJP looked good early. Nese grinded him down and did WWE heel work 101 (rest holds). TJP came back with a spinning heel kick. Nese was looking at a turnbuckle when TJP rolled him up out of nowhere for the win.

Nese, not happy about getting pinned out of nowhere, laid Perkins out with a German suplex to the ring post and a running knee strike. Looks like a program is starting between these two.

Akira Tozawa will be making his debut next week. Sami Zayn, sporting a black eye for some reason, put him over.

TJP was being helped away by officials as they showed another replay of Nese attacking him.

The Brian Kendrick came out, ready to face a hometown hero named Tripp Bradshaw. Kendrick said this is a cold, harsh world and he’s ready to snuff out other people’s dreams. He did it to Sean Maluta, he’ll do it to Tajiri if he ever returns from injury, and it’ll happen to Tripp tonight in his hometown.

The Brian Kendrick defeated Tripp Bradshaw

This didn’t last long. Kendrick took him down a few times. Tripp tried a comeback, but Kendrick laid him out with a kick and submitted him with the Captain’s Hook.

Swann said that Neville thinks he’s unstoppable, that he’s a king. Cedric Alexander said don’t worry about it, he’s got it. Swann told him to save a piece of Neville for him for Sunday.

Neville defeated Cedric Alexander

This was actually a really good match, but the crowd brought it down a notch. Regardless, the last few minutes of this were really great. Neville just “gets it” as a heel and Alexander is really good.

Alexander got some shine early. He landed a brutal kick to Neville’s chest that laid him out, but he took too long and Neville recovered, grabbing and throwing Alexander into the barricade. Alexander came back with a handspring kick and launched off with a tope con hilo to the floor.

Neville responded by taking down Alexander and hitting the deadlift German suplex. They went to the top rope where Alexander went for a sunset flip powerbomb but Neville landed on his feet. Alexander caught him and went for a kick but Noam Dar came in to interfere.

Alexander tripped off the middle rope, which led to Neville latching out a double arm scissors hold and quickly tapping him out.

Dar wanted to lay out Alexander with Neville, but Neville threw him out and continued the assault until Rich Swann hit the ring. Alexander and Dar brawled to the back while referees broke up the situation going on in the ring.

Final Thoughts —

This was a pretty solid episode. You have something to look forward to next week in Tozawa’s debut, the start of a new program between TJP and Nese, and you also had a pretty good main event in Neville and Cedric Alexander.

I wish the crowd was a bit livelier, but that’s the folly of 205 Live — the enthusiasm for the show might be a lot better if this were taped instead of broadcast live.

WWE 205 Live results: Gallagher vs. Daivari in an ‘I forfeit’ match

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Jack Gallagher defeated the scoundrel Ariya Daivari in an “I forfeit” match, Tony Nese proved victorious in a match against Mustafa Ali, and the Noam Dar/Alicia Fox/Cedric Alexander triangle continued to get weirder.

Show Recap —

They opened with a video highlighting the Ariya Daivari/Jack Gallagher feud.

We then got an angle. It was supposed to be Cedric Alexander vs. Drew Gulak. As Alexander was coming to the ring, Alicia Fox followed. Alexander blew her off, which Fox didn’t like. Noam Dar came out to try and calm her down, but also went to the top rope and distracted Alexander.

It briefly became a two-on-one with Gulak and Dar taking on Alexander, but Alexander took them both out and sent them to the outside, leveling the two with a suicide dive. Alexander continued to lay into Dar, but Gulak shot back, clipping Alexander’s leg. This sent Dar and Fox packing, but Alexander made it back to the ring and wanted to do the match anyway.

Drew Gulak defeated Cedric Alexander

Fine match, but nothing special. As usual, the crowd is just there for this. Gulak, of course, worked on the leg a lot. Alexander did manage some good offense, including a springboard split-legged moonsault. Alexander went for the lumbar check, but couldn’t do it as his leg was bothering him. He was pinned with a back suplex hold.

Dar said, “Hey, look what I’ve done for you” in response to Alexander’s defeat. Fox responded by slapping him.

They showed a pretty good video package highlighting the feud between Neville and Rich Swann, which will lead to a match for the Cruiserweight title at the Royal Rumble.

Dasha Fuentes interviewed Tony Nese before his match. He said that the Premier Athlete doesn’t need to prepare for a match like this, as he’s already stronger and better. That’s why there’s thousands in this arena and only one Premier Athlete.

Tony Nese defeated Mustafa Ali

Ali looked great, hitting some great agile maneuvers in his comeback. Nese caught Ali in the turnbuckle, lifted him up, and nailed him with a gutbuster. Ali came back with a tornado DDT.  Nese caught him with a knee strike, however, and pinned him.

Akira Tozawa is still coming soon. This week, Apollo Crews put him over, including his striking and his ability to become champion.

Jack Gallagher defeated Ariya Daivari in an “I forfeit” match

This was your usual I quit match. Daivari got the heat with a side slam on the apron and worked Gallagher over on the outside, throwing him into the barricade. Gallagher’s hands were tied up but he managed to subdue Daivari with a headbutt and managed to escape. He grabbed an umbrella but Daivari struck back.

They brawled around the stage, then made it back to the announcer’s table. After calmly telling the announce team to move, Gallagher threw Daivari on top of the table. Gallagher managed to corner Daivari with an umbrella and told him to forfeit. Daivari started to say he forfeits, but instead smacked Gallagher in throat with the mic and applied the Cobra Clutch.

Gallagher grabbed his umbrella (William III) nearby and started smacking Daivari with William, causing him to let go. Gallagher came back with an umbrella-assisted crossface chicken wing, which led to Daivari finally forfeiting.

Gallagher celebrated as the show goes off the air.

Final Thoughts —

Without Neville, this show is lacking something fierce. Nothing was bad on this show, and the main event was a decent blow off match, but there’s no real reason to watch it unless you’re invested in the Cedric/Fox/Dar triangle or the (possible) blow-off between Gallagher and Daivari. It was a show, in other words.

WWE 205 Live results: Swann vs. Nese; Alexander vs. Dar

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Neville will challenge Rich Swann for the Cruiserweight title at the Royal Rumble. After Alicia Fox cost Cedric Alexander a big match against Noam Dar, Alexander dumped Fox, causing her to have a meltdown.

Brian Kendrick had more trouble taking out Sean Maluta than Tajiri did, but also vowed to take care of Tajiri when the time comes. The parley between Jack Gallagher and Ariya Daivari was nothing more than a contract signing for an “I Forfeit” match at a future date.

Show Recap —

They opened with highlights over the last few weeks concerning the Cedric Alexander/Noam Dar/Alicia Fox angle, including last night where Fox kissed Dar, then rejected him, saying he couldn’t handle a real woman.

Noam Dar defeated Cedric Alexander

They had a long match. It wasn’t bad, but really just your generic long WWE match with nothing flashy or substantial. Dar is just there as a worker, not to mention the storyline of the match as a whole doesn’t make sense at all.

Dar gained control and did stereotypical heel rest holds and grinding down, working on Alexander’s arm. Alexander made a comeback and went for a springboard but Dar caught him with an armbar. Dar left Alexander’s arm prone on the apron and was going to do a running dropkick to the outside when Alicia Fox stopped him.

That allowed Alexander to hit a baseball slide and a clothesline off the top rope. Alexander was going for a moonsault when Fox pulled Dar’s leg out of the ring. Dar responded with a dropkick on Alexander for the win. Fox looked stunned by this. Um, you just cost him the match.

There was an Akira Tozawa hype video. Kalisto put him over huge. Tozawa will supposedly be coming soon.

Brian Kendrick came to the ring, and he wasn’t too happy over the events of last week where he was misted by Tajiri. He called him a sneaky snake and a sneaky sneak. He said that rest assured, next time he sees Tajiri, he’ll be choking on that mist. He pointed to his opponent, Sean Maluta, and said that if Tajiri can beat him, he’ll be lucky to survive 30 seconds with Brian Kendrick.

Brian Kendrick defeated Sean Maluta

This was what you’d expect. Kendrick underestimated Maluta’s ability and as a result Maluta got some good shine in, hitting the three amigos suplexes and a shining wizard for a good near fall. Maluta went for a frog splash, but Kendrick countered with knees and submitted Maluta with the Captain’s Hook.

Backstage, Fox couldn’t explain why she did what she did. Alexander said it wasn’t an accident and eventually said that they were done. Fox tried to explain but he wouldn’t hear it and left. Fox then proceeded to throw a fit.

It was now time for the parley, or “a gentlemanly way to end things” as Corey Graves put it. Gallagher said quite frankly, this needs to come to an end. He claimed that Ariya Daivari has besmirched his honor. Daivari said he doesn’t want peace. Gallagher said he doesn’t want that either. He pointed to a contract on the table for an “I Forfeit” match, which is basically an I Quit match.

Daivari said it’ll be his pleasure to make him forfeit. They both got up as Daivari threw away William (Gallagher’s umbrella). Gallagher then said he hoped the Queen wasn’t watching this as he attacked Daivari, leading to a pull apart. For all the weeks of buildup, this really got no response, except for when they got rid of the umbrella.

Rich Swann defeated Tony Nese

This was solid stuff while it lasted, but nothing out of this world. Nese did a good job in the match and looked impressive in spots. He had control of a lot of the match, but Swann pelted him with a kick to the temple to get the win.

Swann said for the past couple of weeks there’s been a man who resembles a gargoyle calling himself the King of the Cruiserweights. He said that’s wrong, as he’s the Cruiserweight champion. Neville came out, saying it isn’t Swann’s show and he begs to differ. Swann said he has ears like Dumbo and if he has a problem with that, come to the ring so we can solve it.

Neville called him an ignorant American and won’t step into the ring with him until he gets a title shot. Swann said fine, name the time and the place, because you can’t handle this. Neville said he can’t think of a better coronation than at the Royal Rumble. The two have a staredown as the show closed.

Final Thoughts —

This was a pretty bland show. The two major storylines being touted feel way past their expiration date and feel like they need to end, which at least they seem to be alluding to now by the way things went down tonight. The main event angle was fine, and at least sets up a big match for the Royal Rumble.

WWE 205 Live results: Neville takes on TJ Perkins

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway —

Neville continued his onslaught towards the top, defeating TJ Perkins in the main event. Ariya Daivari jumped Jack Gallagher as revenge for last week’s duel that didn’t exactly go his way. Despite defeat, Noam Dar still has his eyes on Alicia Fox, and Tajiri made his return, leaving a lasting impression on Brian Kendrick.

Show Recap —

They opened the show by saying that due to attacks by Neville, Rich Swann has not been medically cleared to compete. Instead, TJ Perkins will square off against Neville tonight.

Tajiri defeated Sean Maluta

This was just a match highlighting Tajiri and his moveset, doing all his trademark spots, including the tarantula and the handspring elbow. He scored the win with the buzzsaw kick.

Brian Kendrick came out after the match with a mic. He welcomed Tajiri back, saying that he hasn’t lost a step and was even better than he was back in the day when they were on SmackDown. He said Tajiri brings prestige, and together they can rule 205 Live. He extended his hand, and Tajiri proceeded to shake…but then the green mist returned, blinding Kendrick as Tajiri slithered around.

Dasha Fuentes caught up with Neville. He said people like and respect TJ Perkins, but he has gotten nothing but discrimination. He’s tired of hearing about Perkins’ struggles — what about his? He’s never been taken seriously because of how he talks and how he looks. When the system is broken, you create your own system. He doesn’t care what anyone on planet Earth thinks of him, and that is dangerous. Tonight TJ Perkins’ fifteen minutes are up, as there can only be one King of the Cruiserweights.

A video package on Tony Nese was shown. He noted how he’s had previous tryouts in the WWE. He made sure to mention he doesn’t see that person who was rejected so many times anymore.

Jack Gallagher defeated Tony Nese by DQ

This didn’t last long. Gallagher did all of his trademark spots, which sent Gulak to the outside. This allowed Ariya Daivari to come in and clip Gallagher’s knee for the DQ. He wrapped it in the tree of woe position and attacked him until referees came and broke it up.

Cedric Alexander and Alicia Fox were backstage contemplating what’s been going on. Alexander said he hasn’t been winning lately. Fox said it’s all her fault, but Alexander played it down, saying to just be a bit more careful in the future.

Mustafa Ali defeated Noam Dar

Dar struck Ali while he was entering the ring and worked on an arm. Ali came back and hit a tornado DDT and followed with a rolling neckbreaker. Ali springboarded off the middle rope but Dar grabbed him and applied an armbar. Ali managed to escape, then gave Dar a boot in the corner, taking him down and allowing Ali to hit the imploding 450 splash for the win.

Dasha interviewed Dar. He said don’t worry about his 2017, all he needs is lady luck, and that is Alicia Fox. Alexander might not be much of a man, but Alicia Fox is always welcome in his corner.

An Akira Tozawa package aired. It mostly had Cesaro talking about him. Cesaro put him over by saying he is different than any other competitor.

Tom Phillips was with Perkins, who said he gives Neville credit, but he’s whining too much and accused him of being a bully. And when it comes to being a bully, sometimes all you need to do is kick them in the face.

Neville defeated TJ Perkins

Good TV main event match. Perkins rejected the traditional handshake before the match. Some pretty nice back and forth action to start. Neville tried to go for the phoenix splash but Perkins dodged, giving him control of the match. Perkins followed with a corkscrew splash to the outside, then followed with a diving crossbody. Neville made a comeback and hit the deadlift German suplex. Neville went for the superplex that got him the victory last week, then landed it and scored the win.

Neville sulked in the ring as the show went off the air.

Final Thoughts —

With Neville as one of the top stars on 205 Live, this show has finally found something to go with, and it’s going very well. Neville always had the workrate to be a star no matter where he’s at, but this new heel persona is working wonders for him, creating an aura he never had until now.

The rest of the show was perfectly fine (Mustafa Ali looked really good, despite being snubbed after his match when Dar was interviewed instead of him), but it’s clear Neville is becoming the star to watch on this show.

WWE 205 Live results: Rich Swann vs. Neville in a non-title match

Posted on by Bryan Rose

The Big Takeaway — 

Neville, taking an anti-American stance, defeated Rich Swann to cement himself as the number one contender for the Cruiserweight title.

Jack Gallagher defeated Ariya Daivari in a duel, Mustafa Ali scored a big win his hometown of Chicago, and Noam Dar is intent on winning the heart of Alicia Fox against Cedric Alexander’s best wishes.

Show Recap —

The show began with recap of the events from last week, where Brian Kendrick and Neville stood tall over Rich Swann and TJ Perkins. Mauro Ranallo, Corey Graves, and Austin Aries welcome us to the show.

They recap last week’s events between Noam Dar and Cedric Alexander, as the latter comes out for the first match.

Tony Nese defeated Cedric Alexander

Nese got the upper hand by shoving Alexander off the top rope and onto the apron. Alexander derails Nese with a kick, then hits a top rope clothesline for a near fall. Alicia Fox and Drew Gulak quarreled outside the ring, leading Gulak to fall to the floor and pretend like he got hit with Fox’s heel. The ref sent Fox to the back, distracting Alexander. Nese walloped Alexander with the shotei palm strike and pinned him.

Fox looked upset backstage over Alexander’s loss. That led to the appearance of Noam Dar. He knows Christmas was Sunday, but he got her a present: mistletoe. He, of course, wanted a kiss. Alicia Fox responded by slapping him. He wanted another, and she obliged.

They throw it to a backstage interview with Renee Young sitting down with Neville. He said him not being on 205 Live initially was because of discrimination. Not from the WWE, but from the people of the United States of America. He feels that when Americans feel threatened, they lash out, so he will use that cruelty to rise to the top. Young asks if that’s why he calls himself the King of the Cruiserweights. Neville scoffs, saying doesn’t call himself that, he is that.

Neville goes on to talk about Rich Swann, about how he was his young boy in Japan and cooked and cleaned for him. He’s above everyone in this division as he’s used to wrestling 300 pound men. Young asks him to repeat something (because you know, the accent), and Neville becomes upset, saying the interview is over.

Mustafa Ali defeated John Yurnett

John Yurnett is more well known as Mr. 450, who normally wrestles in Puerto Rico and has done tours in Japan. Ali got a big reception for being from Chicago. Yurnett favored his knee, telling the referee he wants to continue. I think he injured himself here legit, which is a shame. Ali takes him down and hits an imploding 450 splash off the top rope for the win.

Dasha Fuentes interviews Mustafa Ali, who says Chicago made him. For so many years, he had to put up with assumptions based on his name and look. He thought he had to prove them all wrong, but truth is they proved him wrong. This isn’t a perfect world, but he’ll let the victories pile up and speak for themselves.

They aired a package on Ariya Daivari, talking about his older brother’s run in the WWE (he says he’s already surpassed him). He talks about his rivalry with Jack Gallagher, saying his loss was a fluke and was something that would never happen again.

Jack Gallagher defeated Ariya Daivari in a duel

There is a table out full of weapons as Daivari and Gallagher come out for their duel. Daivari chooses a lead pipe; Gallagher chooses an umbrella. Daivari likes these odds and wants to start, but Gallagher wants to explain the rules: they take five steps back to back, then they’ll turn around and duel.

Gallagher starts the duel, but Daivari wants to jump him immediately. Gallagher catches this and quickly takes him out with the umbrella. Daivari uses the table to attack Gallagher, but Gallagher makes a comeback and drives Daivari out of the ring with a running dropkick.

The announcer declares Gallagher the winner via forfeit, leaving Daivari mad.

Tajiri makes his 205 Live debut next week.

Neville defeated WWE Cruiserweight Champion Rich Swann in a non-title match

There were hot exchange early. It’s pretty clear that in terms of sheer athleticism, there’s few above these two. Neville throws Swann into the LED apron screen. Neville takes out Swann with the fosbury flop. Neville focuses on Swann’s back, hitting a standing shooting star press.

Swann comes back with a hurricanrana, taking Neville to the outside. Swann takes out Neville with a corkscrew senton to the floor. Neville throws Swann out of the ring and hits the ropes but Swann derails him with a superkick and a falcon arrow. Neville takes him out again and goes for the Red Arrow but Swann rolls out of the way and superkicks Neville again for a close near fall.

Swann goes to the top rope but Neville meets him there with a forearm. Swann sends him back down, but Swann takes too long and Neville makes a comeback, hitting a big time superplex and pins Swann.

Swann gets back up to his feet after the match, but Neville assaults him, hitting a release German suplex. Refs break it up as Neville shouts “Bring me my crown!”  to end the show.

Final Thoughts —

It seems like this show is finally finding its own groove after several weeks of “just there” shows. Matches moved quicker and were better paced, with the main event being pretty darn good save for the anti-climactic finish.

We have several angles going on here that are starting to catch a bit of steam, so it should be interesting to see how they develop leading to the Royal Rumble, where it seems clear a Neville/Rich Swann title match is in the pipeline.