Tag: big e - Page 5

Big E breaks neck, Pete Dune name change, Vince McMahon: The Latest

Posted on March 12, 2022 by Denise Salcedo

Speak Now: Butch, Big E injury, SmackDown & Rampage

Posted on March 12, 2022 by Denise Salcedo

Join on-camera personality Denise Salcedo as she breaks down the March 11th editions of both WWE SmackDown and AEW Rampage.

The first portion of the stream focuses on the most noteworthy moments from Smackdown, including the name change of Pete Dunne to “Butch” and the unfortunate Big E injury.

The second portion of the stream is all about AEW Rampage, we go over the biggest moments of the night including the debut of Swerve Strickland.

Right Click Save As

Big E suffers broken neck during WWE SmackDown match

Posted on March 12, 2022 by Bryan Rose

UPDATE:

Big E announced on social media that he suffered a broken neck after landing on his head following a belly-to-belly suplex by Ridge Holland on tonight’s WWE SmackDown.

pic.twitter.com/RQ0f4yafrK

— Ettore “Big E” Ewen (@WWEBigE) March 12, 2022

“I can’t thank all of you beautiful people enough for your concern and your messages, it’s very heartwarming,” Big E says in the video. “I can move all of my digits, that’s always a good thing, strength feels fine. But unfortunately, right now they tell me my neck is broken, so there’s that. But once again, thank you everybody, I’ll be good, don’t worry, go to sleep, don’t worry about ‘ol me, but for real, thank you. I appreciate all of you, for real.”

Original story:

Big E was stretchered out following his match tonight on SmackDown.

Towards the end of a match with him and Kofi Kingston against Ridge Holland and Sheamus, Big E was given a belly-to-belly suplex by Holland. Big E landed on his head on impact. Kingston was then pinned by Sheamus after a distraction by Butch, Pete Dunne under a new name making his debut on tonight’s show. Sheamus, Holland, and Butch continued to beat on Kingston after the match, but Big E was not shown on camera.

During the commercial break, fan footage showed Big E being stretchered out to the back in a neckbrace. WrestlingInc reported that he gave a thumbs up as he was being taken away. PWInsider later reported that he was taken by ambulance to a hospital in Birmingham, Alabama, where WWE held SmackDown tonight.

https://twitter.com/ballsnthezdraws/status/1502459053276082181

In recent weeks, Big E and Kofi Kingston have been feuding with Sheamus and Holland. On last week’s SmackDown, Holland and Sheamus stole an ATV that Kingston had given Big E as a gift for his birthday. They were later seen backstage destroying the ATV with sledgehammers.

WWE SmackDown live results: Big E & Kofi Kingston vs. Sheamus & Ridge Holland

Posted on March 12, 2022 by Dave Bath

On the road to WrestleMania 38, SmackDown comes to Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama tonight.

Universal Champion Roman Reigns attacked WWE Champion Brock Lesnar after Lesnar defeated Austin Theory in the main event of WWE’s Madison Square Garden house show last Saturday. Reigns gave Lesnar a vicious beatdown and posed over a bloody Lesnar. Tonight, Reigns addresses the brutal attack.

Big E & Kofi Kingston take on Sheamus & Ridge Holland tonight. Last week, Sheamus and Holland attacked New Day and destroyed Big E’s ATV.

It was originally announced that Zelina Vega would be facing Sasha Banks in a singles match on tonight’s show. After that was changed to Vega & Carmella vs. Banks & Naomi in a non-title tag team match, WWE removed the bout from tonight’s SmackDown preview.

Vega & Carmella are set to defend their WWE Women’s Tag Team titles against Banks & Naomi and Rhea Ripley & Liv Morgan in a triple threat match at WrestleMania.

Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

**********

They recapped Roman Reigns and The Usos attacking Brock Lesnar at the MSG house show.

Reigns beat down Lesnar with a chair and the stairs. He then gave Lesnar a Rock Bottom on the stairs and left him a bloody mess.

Brock Lesnar Segment

This was a good opening segment. Lesnar chasing Heyman in the back was an awesome scene.

WWE Champion Brock Lesnar made his way to the ring to start SmackDown.

Lesnar noted that Reigns changed the rules. Reigns drew first blood, and now Lesnar wants revenge. He doesn’t care about WrestleMania or the title. Lesnar threw the WWE title out of the ring.

Lesnar called out Reigns and said he wanted blood for blood. Paul Heyman walked out and told Lesnar to calm down. He teased introducing Reigns but instead claimed Reigns isn’t there tonight.

Lesnar wondered if Reigns isn’t there, then who’s protecting Heyman. Lensar jumped out of the ring and chased Heyman to the back.

In the back, Heyman ran for his life, screaming for security to stop Lesnar. Lesnar followed and destroyed security guards that tried to stop him. Lesnar chased Heyman through the backstage area, but Heyman escaped in a limo.

They recapped Sheamus and Ridge Holland beating down Big E and Kofi Kingston last week. They stole Big E’s ATV and destroyed it with sledgehammers.

In the back, Sheamus and Holland bragged about destroying the ATV. They claimed they don’t need sledgehammers tonight because they have Butch. Pete Dunne entered dressed like Sheamus and Holland.

Sheamus & Ridge Holland (w/Butch) defeated Big E & Kofi Kingston (9:23)

This was a good match but there was one very scary moment when Big E landed on his head. Medical staff checked on him and took him out on a stretcher.

Later, Big E announced on social media that his doctors believe he broke his neck and thanked the fans for their messages.

They renamed Pete Dunne Butch and claimed that he’s good friends with Sheamus and Holland.

Kingston and Big E jumped Sheamus and Holland before the bell. New Day had the early advantage as Big E stomped Sheamus in the corner. Sheamus fought back and rocked Big E with a clothesline. Big E briefly recovered, but Sheamus hit the ten beats of the bodhran.

Big E dragged Sheamus on the apron, and Kington took out Holland with a cross body to the floor. Big E missed the splash, and the heels took over.

Back from the break, Kingston and Sheamus tagged in simultaneously. Kingston ran wild, hitting a dropkick and the boom drop.

Kingston set up for the trouble in paradise, but Holland caused a distraction. Instead, Kingston hit the SOS on Sheamus, but Holland broke up the pin attempt. Big E went for the spear through the ropes, but Holland moved out of the way.

Holland then gave Big E a very scary-looking belly-to-belly suplex on the floor. Big E landed on the top of his head and appeared to be hurt. Cole noted medical personnel is checking on Big E.

The finish came when Kingston climbed to the top rope, but Sheamus hit the Brogue Kick for the win. After the match, Butch attacked Kingston until Sheamus and Holland stopped him.

They recapped Kevin Owens calling out Stone Cole Steve Austin on last Monday’s Raw to appear on the KO Show at WrestleMania. They also showed Austin accepting Owens’ challenge.

They recapped Ricochet defeating Sami Zayn to win the Intercontinental title when Johnny Knoxville caused a distraction last week.

In the back, Kayla Braxton interviewed former Intercontinental Champion Zayn. He was furious that she called him the former champion.

Braxton showed footage from TMZ of Knoxville flying a banner in the sky with Zayn’s phone number. Zayn was furious that Braxton showed the footage. Zayn claimed that Ricochet got lucky last week. He pointed out that Knoxville isn’t there tonight, and he promised to win the title back.

Drew McIntyre & The Viking Raiders vs. Happy Corbin, Madcap Moss & Jinder Mahal

The match didn’t end up happening and turned into an angle instead.

McIntrye made his entrance before the break. Back from the break, McIntyre was waiting for his partners, The Viking Raiders to make their entrance. They cut backstage where Corbin, Moss, Mahal, and Shanky beat down the Raiders.

The heels ran out and attacked McIntyre. He tried fighting back, but the heels overwhelmed him. McIntrye finally broke free, but Corbin ran away. McIntyre beat down the heels and gave Shanky a Michinoku Driver. McIntyre grabbed his sword Angela and pointed at the WrestleMania sign to end the segment.

They recapped Ronda Rousey defeating Sonya Deville last week and putting Charlotte Flair in the ankle lock.

Ronda Rousey Segment

The was a fine segment.

The fans broke into a loud “Ronda” chant. Rousey addressed Flair calling her a one-trick pony last week because all she has is the armbar. She compared that to calling Mike Tyson a one-trick pony because all he does is knocks people out with punches.

Rousey noted she added the ankle lock to her repertoire, which she learned from her first mentor Kurt Angle. Rousey said that she made Flair tap out to the ankle lock last week.

SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair made her way to the ring. Flair pointed out that she was wearing heels and an expensive suit last week. She doesn’t care that Rousey uses the ankle lock now. Rousey challenged Flair to prove she won’t tap out, but Flair walked away.

The fans chanted “You tapped out” at Flair as she walked around the ringside. Rousey promised to tap out Flair at WrestleMania and leave with her arm.

They recapped the opening segment and announced that an angry Lesnar had left the building.

Sasha Banks & Naomi defeated Natalya & Shayna Baszler (3:13)

This was a good match while it lasted.

The match started during the break. Carmella and Queen Zelina watched from ringside.

The heels gained the early advantage as they isolated Naomi. Baszler slowed the pace down and worked over Naomi’s knee. Naomi recovered and kicked Baszler in the face to gain control. Banks got the hot tag and ran wild on the heels. She then hit a Meteora on Natalya and sent the heels to the floor.

Banks gave Natalya a tilt-a-whirl head scissors into the tag team champions at ringside. Naomi then took out Baszler with a cross body off the steps.

Natalya caught Banks with a discus clothesline for a close near fall. Zelina jumped on the apron, but Banks sent Natalya into Vega. Banks then pinned Natalya for the win.

They recapped The Usos attacking Shinsuke Nakamura and Rick Boogs last week and defeating The Viking Raiders.

The Usos Segment

They showed the footage of Roman Reigns and The Usos beating down Brock Lesnar at the MSG house show.

The Usos bragged about being the tag team champions almost for one year and Reigns holding the Universal title for nearly two years. Nakamura and Boogs interrupted and demanded a match for WrestleMania.

The Usos mocked Boogs and Nakamura. They agreed to give them a title shot at WrestleMania if Boogs could defeat Jey Uso. They pointed out that Boogs has a knee injury and doubted he could compete on one knee.

Rick Boogs (w/Shinsuke Nakamura) defeated Jey Uso (w/Jimmy Uso) (1:44)

This was a fine match that didn’t get a lot of time.

Boogs revealed that he faked his knee injury. Boogs gave Jey a delayed suplex and a press slam. Jimmy tried to interfere, but Nakamura cut him off. Jimmy took out Nakamura at ringside. Boogs fought back and hit the Boogs Cruise on Jey for the win.

After the match, Jimmy broke a guitar over Boogs head. Nakamura and Boogs take on The Usos for the tag team titles at WrestleMania 38.

Pat McAfee-Austin Theory Segment

McAfee was good in this segment. McAfee and Theory had a good brawl that the fans were into. Cole was good in his role as well.

Sami Zayn and Ricochet made their entrances for the next match. After doing the ring introductions, Austin Theory’s music interrupted, and he walked to ringside.

Theory got in Pat McAfee’s face at the commentary table. He slapped McAfee and knocked off his headset again. McAfee lost his temper and jumped off the table onto Theory.

They brawled until officials ran out to break it up. Cole tried to stop McAfee, but he had to leave the building. The fans broke into a “Pat” chant.

Intercontinetal Champion Ricochet defeated Sami Zayn to retain (12:41)

Zayn and Ricochet had another great match, but the focus at the start was on Austin Theory and Pat McAfee. They even cut away from the match to recap the Theory-McAfee brawl.

Cole claimed Johnny Knoxville and Jackass influenced Ricochet’s high flying style. Cole stressed that Knoxville isn’t at the show tonight.

Back from the break, Cole noted security escorted McAfee out of the building. He added that he’s not sure about McAfee’s commentary career. Cole stressed that McAfee was unprofessinal and had a job to do.

Zayn and Ricochet started slow, going back and forth. Ricochet took over and hit a springboard clothesline. He went for the recoil, but Zayn blocked it. Ricochet climbed to the top rope, but Zayn shoved him off, and Ricochet crashed on the barricade.

Back from the break, they recapped Theory and McAfee brawling before the match. Cole repeated that security escorted McAfee out of the building. He isn’t sure that McAfee will be at SmackDown next week.

Zayn scored a close near fall and went for the blue thunder bomb. Ricochet countered, but Zayn maintained control. Zayn went for a suplex, but Ricochet reversed into a hurricanrana for a two-count.

Ricochet went for a headspring elbow, but Zayn reversed into a blue thunder bomb for a close near fall. They fought on the top rope. Ricochet knocked Zayn off, but he recovered.

Zayn climbed back up and gave Ricochet an exploder suplex. He set up for the helluva kick, but Ricochet countered with the recoil. He followed up with the 630 splash to retain the title.

Ronda Rousey And Charlotte Flair Brawl

This was a good, short and chaotic brawl that was a good ending to SmackDown.

They cut backstage; Ronda Rousey and Charlotte Flair were in the middle of an intense pull-apart brawl. They fought around a red car with referees and officials getting involved.

Flair gave Rousey a suplex on the car’s hood and continued to beat her down. Flair walked off with a furious Rousey on the ground in pain to end SmackDown.

Next Week: WWE Champion Brock Lesnar and Universal Champion Roman Reigns collide.

VIDEO: WWE’s Big E & Goldberg appear on ‘Hot Ones: Truth or Dab’

Posted on March 11, 2022 by Joseph Currier

As part of the promotion for WWE 2K22, this week’s episode of “Hot Ones: Truth or Dab” had a WWE theme.

Big E and Goldberg appeared together on the show, which requires its participants to either answer questions truthfully or eat an outrageously spicy chicken wing.

It was brought up on Truth or Dab that Big E has called Goldberg his dream opponent. On The New Day’s Feel the Power podcast in 2020, Big E spoke about why he wants to face Goldberg.

“If I were to ever have a dream match, it would be against the one, the only, Goldberg,” Big E said. “I don’t want to hear y’all talking about this ‘workrate’… and moonsaults. I don’t care about any of that. Ya heard? You want a great match? Nah — bump that. I wanna see two big men with big… chests and big muscles, bumping meat. That’s why I’m here. That’s why I watched wrestling as a kid. You want your five-star matches? You want your 30-minute classics? Not me. Big meaty men slapping meat. That’s what I want.”

At Elimination Chamber in Saudi Arabia last month, Goldberg unsuccessfully challenged Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship. The match was the last one on Goldberg’s most recent WWE contract.

“Stone Cold” Steve Austin, The Undertaker, Sasha Banks, and Chris Jericho are among the pro wrestlers who have appeared on full episodes of Hot Ones.

Today was the official release date for WWE 2K22.

Daily Update: Big E, Hit Row, Shane ‘Swerve’ Strickland

Posted on February 23, 2022 by Bryan Rose

Daily Update

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

Latest Free YouTube Video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_3kEFUBQnkI

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2021 Awards issue, Cody and Brandi Rhodes leave AEW

Ordering Info: Order the print Wrestling Observer right now and get it delivered via mail, by sending your name, address, Visa or Master Card number and an expiration date to [email protected] or by going to www.paypal.com directing funds to [email protected].

Rates in the United States are $14.50 for 4 issues, $35.50 for 12, $70 for 24, $116 for 40 and $149.50 for 52.

In Canada and Mexico, the rates are $16 for 4, $27 for 8, $38.50 for 12, $76 for 24, $126 for 40 and $162.50 for 52.

For the rest of the world, rates are $18 for 4, $48.50 for 12, $93 for 24, $155 for 40 and $201.50 for 52.

If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order to P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228, you can get $1 off in every price range.

Tuesday News Update

WWE

Main Event matches taped prior to Raw on Monday included Veer Mahan vs. Apollo Crews and Liv Morgan vs. Queen Zelina.
Titus O’Neil, Damian Priest, and Micah Parsons from the Dallas Cowboys will be on The Bump this Wednesday.
In an interview with talkSPORT, Big E said he did not expect to be moved back to SmackDown after his WWE Championship run. “My focus has been on controlling what I can,” he said. “We’ve had several interviews and I’m sure I’ve already talked your ears off about meditation and how much that has helped me. But, that’s my job. I focus on being the performer and do the very best with what I’m given, that’s my focus. But, I don’t want any of that to be perceived as me taking away from being with Kofi and Woods. That’s my greatest delight. For me, it was a transition I will say I did not expect at this time in my career. I had hoped to climb back and try once again to win back the WWE championship. But, we have a pretty big champion [Roman Reigns] and pretty big title on SmackDown as well so, you never know.”
The Rock on Instagram praised Montez Ford and thanked him for kind words in an interview: “We’ve never shared the ring together, but pro wrestlers all have a very special bond. Pro wrestling is a very unique, intense and wild culture that’s not for everybody. When you love the wrestling business, you become very respectful about the wrestling business. And when you’re respectful about the wrestling business, you become PASSIONATE about the wrestling business. It seeps deep into your DNA. Fans can always sense who’s passionate inside that squared circle ~ and who’s not. This man is passionate. We share that DNA (And he flys like the Superfly —-). Keep kicking ass brother and give my love to your family. And when you become world champion one day, I’ll be right there rooting ya on.”
Matches added to WWE’s YouTube account today include Goldberg vs. Bam Bam Bigelow from WCW SuperBrawl IX, John Cena and The Miz vs. The Corre from the February 21, 2011 edition of Raw, and Batista vs. MVP from the February 22, 2008 edition of SmackDown.

AEW

This week’s AEW Road To, focusing on the Chris Jericho/Eddie Kingston face-to-face and The House of Black vs. Death Triangle.
The presale code for AEW’s return to Pittsburgh on April 20 is BBDMD. The presale for tickets begins on Thursday at 10 am EST.
Serena Deeb has filed for the trademark “The Professor of Professional Wrestling”.
Sammy Guevara’s latest vlog.

Other Wrestling

The former Top Dolla, Ashante Thee Adonis, and B-Fab, now under the name HitMakerZ, have been added to GCW’s For the Culture event that will take place on April 1.
Former WWE head of talent relations Canyon Ceman has joined Obsesh.com as a Chief Athlete Officer.
In an interview with WrestlingInc, Shane ‘Swerve’ Strickland talked about his current status and what he wants to do. “Right now I am content with exploring,” he said. “The state that WWE is in right now, I don’t think it needs me. I don’t think what they’re looking for, and what they’re asking for is something that I can provide. Because I am always wanting more. I am always moving on a different pace, I don’t like waiting around too much, I don’t like waiting in line, I don’t like trying to fill one lane that everybody else is already jamming in. I am always into creating my own lane and doing something, it’s sometimes the things that I want to venture out and try is going to take risk. There’s a lot of unknown territory that the system is not familiar with, and that’s okay, because it’s their system, it’s still going to be successful with what they do, whether they change or not. They’re still going to make their money.”
Jonathan Gresham will defend the ROH World Championship against Emeritus in Copenhagen, Norway this Saturday.
Gresham is also set to face PROGRESS Champion Cara Noir in a match that will take place on March 20.
Sports Illustrated talked to Katsuhiko Nakajima ahead of his match against Kazuyuki Fujita at NOAH’s Gain Control show on Wednesday.
Road Dogg has filed for the trademark “Road Dogg BG James”.

Daily Update: Big E, Inoki turns 79, weekend show notes

Posted on February 21, 2022 by Dave Meltzer

Daily Update

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

Latest Free YouTube Video:

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter: 2021 Awards issue, Cody and Brandi Rhodes leave AEW

Rates in the United States are $14.50 for 4 issues, $35.50 for 12, $70 for 24, $116 for 40 and $149.50 for 52.

In Canada and Mexico, the rates are $16 for 4, $27 for 8, $38.50 for 12, $76 for 24, $126 for 40 and $162.50 for 52.

For the rest of the world, rates are $18 for 4, $48.50 for 12, $93 for 24, $155 for 40 and $201.50 for 52.

If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order to P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228, you can get $1 off in every price range.

Sunday News Update

Best wishes to Dustin Rhodes with his mother in the hospital and to John Arezzi, who is battling COVID.
Our weekend show covering Elimination Chamber and the rest of the weekend news is up on the site right now. We also have a great interview with Kenny Omega that Garrett and I did on the site. We’ve gotten tremendous feedback to it and it covered many different topics including his recovery from injuries, the vision of AEW, Cody Rhodes leaving and much more.
We are doing thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle polls, as well as best and worst matches from each show on WWE Elimination Chamber, Impact No Surrender, both nights of New Japan and AAA Rey de Reyes. You can send to [email protected]
We’re looking for reports from the Impact tapings in New Orleans tonight as well as GCW last night and tonight in Atlantic City to [email protected].

WWE

Big E drove the pace car at the Daytona 500 today.
Elimination Chamber yesterday had 200,000 searches which is normal level for a non-big four show. It was the fifth most searched topic of the day. The UFC show didn’t crack the top 20 and No. 20 was 50,000, so that show had a genuine lack of interest compared to usual. Only two other things related to wrestling, boxing and MMA cracked the top 20 this past week. Amir Khan was No. 20 yesterday and Cody Rhodes was No. 2 with 200,000 searches on Tuesday. Steve Austin didn’t crack the top 20 nor did Undertaker.
Undertaker was on The Today Show talking about his Hall of Fame induction.

AAA

The American announce team of Joe Dombrowski and Larry Dallas got a lot of praise from last night’s AAA Rey de Reyes. The show itself got very little praise.
Carlos Cabrera debuted as a Spanish language announcer on the show and he got little praise as it was said he knew none of the characters and storylines. But some fans liked the idea of the reuniting of Cabrera and Hugo Savinovich, who were the Jim Ross & Jerry Lawler for WWE Spanish language fans of a generation.

NJPW

Lots of praise for the Kazuchika Okada vs. Tetsuya Naito match from today’s New Japan show in Sapporo. I saw the end and it was very good. It was the first match in the short history of the IWGP World title to finish in less than 30:00, going 29:34.
New Japan will have a press conference at 4 a.m. Eastern to announce the 3/1 Budokan Hall show as well as the New Japan Cup brackets. There will be a 48 man field this year.

Other Wrestling

Antonio Inoki turned 79 today.
Impact champions Moose and Mickie James are scheduled to appear on Thursday’s taping for OVW Wrestling.
Today is the 33rd anniversary of Ricky Steamboat’s NWA world title in over Ric Flair in Chicago. I was at the match and it was a classic for its era.
Today also marks 101 years since the birth of Buddy Rogers, who was a gigantic star from the late 40s into the early 60s, and a very controversial NWA champion, who drew well but nearly killed the NWA due to power plays regarding booking him, which led to the creation of the WWWF name and title.
Bob Backlund won the WWWF title from Superstar Billy Graham in Madison Square Garden 44 years ago today.
Yesterday was the 68th anniversary of the birth of Japan Pro Wrestling, Rikidozan’s promotion, with the famous Rikidozan & Masahiko Kimura vs Sharpe Brothers match. Wrestling became an instant success from that week.
Wayne Baughman, a legendary wrestler from the 60s, and a member of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, passed away on Wednesday at the age of 81. Baughman was a wrestler, coach, historian, author, military officer and volunteer. Baughman competed in 25 national tournaments and never placed lower than third, winning 16 national championships and seven second place finishes. He was the first wrestler to win the national title in freestyle, folkstyle, Greco-Roman and sambo. He was 1962 NCAA champion, and also won five freestyle nationals and nine Greco-Roman national tiles and one sambo national title. He placed in the world championships in freestyle, Greco-Roman and sambo. He was twice Olympic team captain. He later coached 27 years at Air Force.
Joe Hendry is talking independent bookings through Bill Behrens at [email protected]. He is currently based in Scotland but is planning on moving to Baltimore.
The Missouri Historical Society will be hosting a Wrestling at the Chase talk with author Ed Wheatley on Tuesday at 11 a.m.
Black Wrestlers Matter from last night in St. Louis: Ryu Kendrick b Denzel Rollins, Fred Yehi b JDX, Stephen Wolf b Carlie Bravo, AC Mack won four-way over Zay Washington, Doc Simmons and Darien Bengston, Suge D b ATM, Isaiah Broner b Joseline Navarro, Camaro Jackson b ACH, Barackus b Eli Rossi, Myron Reed b Kenny Alfonso, Moses the Deliverer & Rahim De La Suede b Zack Mason& Warren J, Jah-C b Mike Outlaw, Tootie Lynn b Big Swole (thanks to Patrick Brandmeyer)
Northeast Wrestling from last night in Bethany, CT: Tina San Antonio b JC Storm, Hale Colins b Chris Monjo, KC Navarro b Brett Ryan Gosselin, Mike Verna b Chris Battle, Julio Cruz & Victor Chase b Dustin Waller & Kylon King, Wrecking Bell Legursky b AJZ, Flip Gordon b JT Dunn Dan Maff b Brad Hollister to keep the heavyweight title, Jaelyn Brandyn & Treavon Jordan b Antonio Zambrano & Cam Zagami to win tag titles.
Stardom from today in Chiba: Fukigen Death won four-way over Hanan, Mirai and Saya Kamitani, Maika & Himeka b Ruaka & Rina, Syuri & Natsupoi d Utami Hayashishita & AZM 15:00, Mayu Iwatani & Hazuki & Koguma & Momo Kohgo b Tam Nakano & Unagi Sayaka & Mina Shirakawa & Waka Tsukiyama, Giulia & Thekla & Mai Sakurai b Starlight Kid & Momo Watanabe & Saki Kashima
PWP from Thursday night in Omaha, NE: Willy Sweet b Purple, Omar Pachecco b Joey Daniels, Preston Maxwell b Duke Cornell, Seto Kobara & Tim Boston b Moonshine Russell & Jack Darling, Paul Daniels b Xander McIntosh, Paul Daniels b Sander McIntosh, Pat Powers b Branden Juarez-Next show is 3/10 at the Waiting Room Lounge.
Insane Wrestling Revolution from Thursday night in Monroe, MI: Kenny Urban b Zach Thomas, Jason Hotch b Jackson Stone, Trey Miguel b Jeremiah Goldmain, Trey Miguel b Hannah Henderson, Trey Miguel b Kyler Coleman, Chinstrap Jesus & Nate Bock b Chris Clontz & Tanner Nix, Dread King Logan b Sam Aljahi, Rhino & Heath b Aaron Orion & Jack Price to become first tag tea champions, Krimson & Rod Lee b Sam Beale & Benjamin Boone, Big Kon (Konnor of The Ascension) b Madman Fulton to become the first heavyweight champion (thanks to Leonard Brand)

MMA

PFL results from Thursday night:
John Silveira b Mohamed Juma via submission 1:52 of round three
Taylor Johnson b Alexander Poppeck via straight 29-28 scores
Bruce Souto b Travis Davis via knockout 4:43
Karl Williams b Miles Amos on scores of 30-27, 30-26, 30-27

Big E ‘officially’ back on WWE SmackDown brand

Posted on January 29, 2022 by Ethan Renner

Ex-WWE Champion Big E is “officially” back on the SmackDown brand, according to WWE.

On Friday’s episode of SmackDown, it was stated in a backstage segment with Kofi Kingston and Kayla Braxton that Big E was officially back on SmackDown. Big E and Kingston then teamed against Happy Corbin and Madcap Moss in a winning effort.

In a video released on WWE’s YouTube channel and social media channels, interviewer Megan Morant also used the “officially back on SmackDown” verbiage in introducing Big E.

Big E and New Day stablemates Kingston and King Woods were originally split up in the 2020 WWE Draft, with Kingston and Woods being shifted to Raw and pushed as a tag team, while Big E remained on SmackDown as a singles competitor.

Big E would go on to win the Money in the Bank briefcase while still a member of the SmackDown roster, but cashed in on Raw’s WWE Champion Bobby Lashley. He was then officially drafted to the Raw brand in the 2021 WWE Draft in October.

Big E dropped the WWE title to Brock Lesnar in a five-way match at the Day 1 pay-per-view on January 1. His last televised Raw match came on January 10, a loss to Seth Rollins.

Woods is currently out of action after suffering a torn plantaris.

Two matches official for next week’s WWE SmackDown

Posted on January 22, 2022 by Joseph Currier

Two matches have been made official for SmackDown’s Royal Rumble go-home show.

WWE is advertising that Sonya Deville will finally make her true return to the ring against Naomi on next Friday’s SmackDown. Plus, The New Day’s Big E & Kofi Kingston will face Happy Corbin & Madcap Moss on the episode.

Deville has been feuding with Naomi for months but has refused to face her one-on-one, saying that Naomi isn’t allowed to touch her when she’s working in her role as an on-screen authority figure. Deville again abused her power on tonight’s SmackDown by making herself the referee for Naomi’s non-title match against SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair. Naomi had Flair beat, but Deville refused to count the pin. When Charlotte put Naomi in the Figure Eight, Deville called for the bell before Naomi tapped out. Deville then taunted Naomi after the match.

Adam Pearce told Deville that what she did was over the line, and her issues with Naomi need to stop. Pearce said he was going to suggest to upper management that Naomi and Deville have a match next week.

Big E is a member of the Raw roster but appeared on SmackDow tonight and was in Kingston’s corner for his match against Moss. Big E sent Corbin into the steel steps at one point. After the match, Big E challenged Corbin to come into the ring. When Corbin wouldn’t, Big E gave Moss the Big Ending and said it was for Corbin.

Moss had defeated Kingston when they faced off on SmackDown last Friday.

New Day’s Xavier Woods is currently out of action due to a torn plantaris.

Next week’s SmackDown is being held at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri. The Royal Rumble will take place in St. Louis the next night.

Daily Update: Big E, AEW notes, CyberFight Festival

Posted on January 12, 2022 by Bryan Rose

Daily Update

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

Job Listing: Wikipedia guru

Do you have experience writing Wikipedia pages? Please contact Tony Leder at [email protected] for more information.

Latest Free YouTube Video:

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns program, Wrestle Kingdom 16 review

Rates in the United States are $14.50 for 4 issues, $35.50 for 12, $70 for 24, $116 for 40 and $149.50 for 52.

In Canada and Mexico, the rates are $16 for 4, $27 for 8, $38.50 for 12, $76 for 24, $126 for 40 and $162.50 for 52.

For the rest of the world, rates are $18 for 4, $48.50 for 12, $93 for 24, $155 for 40 and $201.50 for 52.

If you order by mail with a check, cash or money order to P.O. Box 1228, Campbell, CA 95009-1228, you can get $1 off in every price range.

TUESDAY NEWS UPDATE

WWE

Chad Gable wrote a statement on Twitter about he and Otis’ relationship as a team after they won the Raw Tag Team titles last night on Raw.
John Cena was on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Big E said he was disappointed with how his WWE title run ended. “I wanted it to be a five-course meal, and it was more of an appetizer,” he said. “I’m overly critical of my work to begin with, so I wouldn’t say I was happy with it. My hope was to knock it out of the park, and I fell a bit short. So it’s motivating to start that climb back.”
The company has filed a trademark for the term ‘As Good as It Gets”.
A behind-the-scenes video from Sasha Banks’ College Football National Championship intro that aired on Monday night.
Free matches added to WWE’s YouTube account today include Dolph Ziggler vs. Drew McIntyre from the December 3, 2018 edition of Raw, John Cena vs. Randy Orton vs. Kofi Kingston from the January 11, 2010 edition of Raw, and a battle royal from the January 19, 2004 edition of Raw.

AEW

Road to Dynamite: Raleigh has been uploaded to AEW’s YouTube account, focusing on Sammy Guevara vs. Daniel Garcia, Powerhouse Hobbs vs. Dante Martin, CM Punk vs. Wardlow, and Hikaru Shida vs. Serena Deeb.
Mikey Ruckus was interviewed by Bandcamp about his music, how he started doing music for independent talent, and his work in AEW.
Ruckus went into detail on Twitter about a hip hop compilation for Black History Month featuring AEW talent after Mark Henry confirmed the project in an interview.“This has been in the works for a while,” he wrote. “To give a better understanding. I assembled many familiar producers, musicians, rappers/artists within our pro wrestling space to come together and make amazing music that tells the stories of our black talent. This is a celebration of black excellence. It is pure, authentic storytelling. Each star getting an original song written about their come up. We will press a limited commemorative CD for purchase with 100% of the proceeds going to charity. You will hear music made by the following: @IamLioRush, @PlatinumMax, @SonnyKissXO, @IsiahKassidy, @MegaRan, @OmegaSparx, @JDeanWilliams, @DARTrueGod, @R8edR_, @IAmBrinson, @WilliamRBR, @RighteousReg, @ItsBliz, @sir_tizzy09 @mistercutright. The music that is being turned in is amazing & I cannot wait for the world to hear!
Sammy Guevara’s latest vlog.

Other Wrestling

Johnny Gargano on Twitter: “You know when I start working out to wrestling theme songs.. the itch is slowly starting to come back..”
Additionally, Gargano released a limited “Iron Man” colorway of his t-shirt that runs through January 25.
Tony Deppen vs. Dark Sheik has been added to GCW’s card in Detroit, Most Notorious, on January 14.
Tom Hannifan is the guest on this week’s Oral Sessions with Ranee Paquette.
CyberFight, the parent company of Pro Wrestling NOAH, DDT, and Tokyo Joshi Pro, will hold their second annual CyberFight Festival on June 12 at the Saitama Super Arena.
NOAH has uploaded the entire match between Kastuhiko Nakajima and Go Shiozaki from January 1 on their YouTube channel.
Sean Ross Sapp talked to Zicky Dice on the NWA, and his Impact deal.
Former WWE star Ariane Andrews, best known as Cameron, has launched a new fitness app.
Bret Hart has announced a new NFT venture.

Big E declares for WWE Royal Rumble

Posted on January 11, 2022 by Bryan Rose

Big E is the latest to declare himself for this year’s Royal Rumble.

The former WWE Champion declared himself as an entrant in the men’s Royal Rumble match that will take place on January 29. He did so during a Seth Rollins promo that eventually led to a match.

Big E said that his one goal was to headline WrestleMania and beat Rollins to win the title. Rollins said that was doubtful and that Big E couldn’t beat him. Big E suggested they have a match. Rollins initially rejected the idea, but eventually accepted. Rollins won the match after a curb stomp.

Other participants already announced for the men’s Royal Rumble match include Angelo Dawkins, Montez Ford, Rey Mysterio, Dominik Mysterio, Austin Theory, Johnny Knoxille of Jackass fame, Sheamus, Damian Priest, and AJ Styles.

Entrants for the women’s Royal Rumble match so far include Rhea Ripley, Nikki A.S.H., Dana Brooke, Carmella, Queen Zelina, Tamina, Shotzi, Natalya, Aliyah, Naomi, Shayna Baszler, Charlotte Flair, The Bella Twins, Lita, Michelle McCool, Kelly Kelly, Summer Rae, and Mickie James.

WWE Raw live results: Day 1 fallout

Posted on January 4, 2022 by Steve Khan

Date: January 3, 2022
Location: Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, SC

The Big Takeaway —

Raw started and ended well but the middle of the show was no good.

Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman appear to be together again.

Bobby Lashley beat Big E, Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins to earn a title match against Lesnar at the Royal Rumble. However, when asked for comment about the match, Lesnar seemed focused on seeing Roman Reigns on Smackdown this Friday.

Show Recap —

There was a recap of Brock Lesnar winning the WWE Championship at Day 1.

Raw kicked off with a big fireworks display before the announcers ran down tonight’s card.

The lights went dark and came back on to reveal Paul Heyman standing in the ring. Heyman introduced us to his client — the new WWE Champion, Brock Lesnar.

Brock Lesnar/Paul Heyman segment

Lesnar chucked the steel steps in the ring to give himself a podium to stand on. Lesnar shouted out his good buddy Roman Reigns who must be at home watching the new and the real champion. Lesnar said, “Get well soon, buddy” and added, “South Carolina. Acknowledge me.”

Lesnar thanked Heyman for pulling the strings on Saturday to help make him the new champion.

Heyman explained the circumstances that led to Lesnar being added to Day 1’s title match before saying Lesnar would defend the title at the Royal Rumble against the winner of tonight’s number one contender’s match.

Heyman said if Seth Rollins was such a visionary he would realize that his wife would leave him if he couldn’t beat Lesnar at the Rumble. He figured his wife wouldn’t leave Rollins for Kevin Owens because he can’t beat Lesnar either.

Heyman suggested they request a trade to Smackdown because the tribal chief is suddenly very vulnerable without his special counsel. In fact, after just one week without him, Reigns went ahead and got Covid.

Heyman said that Lesnar and Bobby Lashley had never met before Saturday. The first time they met, Lashley speared Lesnar through the barricade. Lashley also speared him in the ring and put him in the Hurt Lock.

Heyman had no trouble admitting that Lesnar may not have gotten out of that hold but also suggested that Lashley attacked Lesnar each time from behind. If it were a one-on-one match, Lashley would simply go down as the All Mighty Brock Lesnar wannabe.

Heyman put over Big E as a great champion (as a few fans applauded) and suggested he would still be champion if he did not have to face Lesnar. If Big E were the challenger at the Rumble, it would be an honour to watch that match — but Big E would still lose. Heyman concluded that Lesnar would still be the champion at the Rumble no matter what.

********

Randy Orton and Riddle had a meeting in the back. (Oddly, Riddle approached Orton but said nothing and scooted away which led to commercials. Riddle approached Orton again after the break for the segment.) There was some comedy before Orton implored Riddle to listen to him.

Before the match, Chad Gable cut a promo before he and Otis attacked Orton and Riddle. Otis laid out Riddle with a suplex outside the ring. The match was underway after a break.

Alpha Academy defeated Raw Tag Team Champions Randy Orton & Riddle in a non-title match

Riddle tried to make a hot tag to Orton but Gable pulled him off the apron. Otis ran over Orton before heading back in the ring. Riddle tried an RKO but Otis countered into a World’s Strongest Slam for the quick pinfall win.

(This was only about three minutes long on TV.)

********

Sarah Schreiber interviewed MVP and Lashley. MVP called tonight a Herculean task for Lashley. Lashley said, “Brock Lesnar fears me.”

Omos was shown with Kevin Patrick before they went to break. There was a long AJ Styles/Omos video package before Patrick asked Omos for his reaction to Styles’ comments. Omos put his hand over Patrick’s face before saying, “that’s how I react.” That was dumb.

(I know it’s been going on for weeks, but they’re turning down the live crowd for a lot of these backstage segments and adding fake crowd noise. There was no reaction to Lashley’s statement and they added canned booing to Omos’ comment.)

There were entrances for the upcoming mixed tag match before the announcers ran down tonight’s card yet again, even though the show is less than an hour old. This led to yet another break. If you couldn’t tell already, they’re really padding this show again.

********

Mixed tag team match: 24/7 Champion Dana Brooke & Reggie defeated Tamina & Akira Tozawa (1:21)

Tozawa kicked Tamina by accident after Reggie avoided a boot. Tamina smacked Tozawa and Reggie followed with a flipping seated senton into a pin for the win (Corey Graves called the move the “whoopee cushion.”)

They said before the match that the title could change hands and Brooke retained because her team won. This was all very stupid.

[Second Hour]

Becky Lynch promo

Lynch knew that it was the resolution of every woman on the roster to win the title but she had no interest in giving it up. She said many have tried but none of them can beat her.

Lynch had some time to reflect and realized she was a work of art. If you go to a museum, the art can make you feel because that’s what good art does. Good art reveals the truth and that’s what Lynch was. Lynch called herself Vincent Van GOAT (a Dexter: New Blood reference) and she informed the fans they would not realize their resolutions.

Lynch said that Liv Morgan broke her promise to the fans and to herself. Morgan interrupted.

Morgan said Lynch knew just how close she came to winning the title on Saturday. Morgan always gave it her all and that’s what she did at Day 1. Lynch said that was lovely, and maybe she will win the title won day, but that wouldn’t be until after she retired.

Bianca Belair interrupted. She was sick of hearing from Lynch and wasn’t buying her hype. Belair claimed that she stepped aside to deal with Doudrop and give others an opportunity but she was right back in line for Lynch’s title.

Lynch didn’t seem interested and suggested that Belair and Morgan start a support group for people who have lost to her. She realized that it already existed and it was called the women’s locker room. Morgan was surprised to hear Lynch acknowledge the women’s locker room considering she hasn’t been with them in years.

Lynch suggested that Morgan and Belair had an issue that they needed to sort first. Morgan and Belair gave each other a look before tossing Lynch from the ring.

Belair and Morgan faced off before quickly getting into a brawl. Belair was about to give Morgan a KOD but Lynch knocked them down from behind.

Lynch posed with her belt as she backed up the ramp.

********

Owens approached Rollins in the back. Rollins asked Owens if he should staple Heyman’s lips together or rip out his tongue. Owens suggested they work together again tonight, and if they did, they could end up wrestling each other for the title. Rollins said he trusted Owens and agreed to his plan. Owens, not a dummy, wondered if Rollins might be lying.

********

Queen Zelina & Carmella defeated Rhea Ripley & Nikki ASH to retain the Tag Team Championships (2:34)

The champs retained quickly after Zelina rolled up Nikki. Ripley acted shocked.

This was a nothing segment and they moved on from it fairly quickly.

*********

They played the Johnny Knoxville video announcing he will be in the Rumble match.

Montez Ford, Angelo Dawkins, Rey Mysterio, and Dominik Mysterio also declared for the match.

********

The Street Profits defeated Apollo Crews & Commander Azeez (2:18)

Another quick match that saw Ford pick up the win with a frog splash on Crews.

There have been less than 10 minutes of wrestling so far 90 minutes into the show.

********

Schreiber asked Damian Priest about the stipulation in tonight’s title defense (if Priest gets counted out or disqualified, he loses the US title). Priest did a dumb promo explaining the two sides to his personality and what that meant for Dolph Ziggler.

********

Doudrop approached Sonya Deville and Adam Pearce. She was pissed that Belair and Morgan were getting chances ahead of her again. Pearce asked what she was actually angry about. Doudrop asked if “grandpa” was deaf and explained she was pissed that the same women kept getting the opportunities.

Deville announced a triple threat between Doudrop, Belair and Morgan next week, and the winner would face Lynch at the Rumble for the title. Doudrop was happy with this.

(They added fake cheering for Deville’s announcement.)

*******

Damian Priest defeated Dolph Ziggler to retain the United States Championship (9:37)

Ziggler hit a tornado DDT off the barricade which led to break less than a minute into the match and the action during the break automatically made this the longest match of the night so far.

Priest fought back after the break but Ziggler came back with a nice running knee strike for two. Priest responded with kicks and a cliffhanger DDT for two.

Ziggler had the referee distracted which allowed Robert Roode (who did not enter with Ziggler) to drop Priest from the top rope. Ziggler followed with a fameasser for a nearfall.

Priest decked Ziggler before going after Roode. He was about to attack Roode with a steel chair but entered the ring instead so he wouldn’t get counted out. Ziggler dared Priest to use the chair on him but Priest chucked it at Roode instead. Ziggler used the momentary distraction to hit a Zig-Zag for a nearfall.

Ziggler tried a superkick but Priest countered into Reckoning for the pinfall win. The crowd was into the last few minutes.

********

Austin Theory approached Vince McMahon in the back for a segment they filmed with at least two cameras. Vince gave him a hard time for apologizing and saying he didn’t mean to interrupt when he did interrupt. Theory asked about his rematch with Finn Bálor. McMahon sort of blew this off and said that Theory would be in the Rumble. McMahon said Theory would win and main event WrestleMania. Theory was speechless.

[Third Hour]

Miz & Maryse/Edge & Beth Phoenix segment

Miz and Maryse entered. Miz said they were outraged over the outcome at Day 1 after he was only one Skull Crushing Finale away from winning. Miz called himself a two-time grand slam champion and shouldn’t have to prove himself against Edge who was only a one-time grand slam champion.

Miz mentioned Beth Phoenix costing him the match and said Edge deserved to lose because of what he did to them last week. He played a replay of the “brood bath.” Miz said the crowd enjoyed that because they were miserable and they wanted to see bad things happen to good people but true love would overcome.

Miz claimed Edge hid behind his wife and wondered what kind of man did that. The crowd yelled, “you!” Maryse said Miz would never do that because he was brave and handsome. Maryse said she would punch Phoenix in the face if she were here tonight.

Beth Phoenix entered to her music before Edge entered to his. Phoenix wasn’t surprised to see Maryse not act on her word and Edge wasn’t surprised to see Miz full of excuses. Phoenix said it was her own idea to get involved at Day 1.

Edge had an idea too. He suggested a mixed tag match at the Royal Rumble. The crowd cheered and chanted “yes.” Miz hesitated before Phoenix pressed him for an answer. Miz accepted but Maryse wasn’t happy about that. Phoenix psyched out Maryse with a fake punch and Maryse fell on her ass (like Edge did to Miz a few weeks ago). Maryse stormed off and Miz chased after her.

********

Patrick interviewed Big E. He said being WWE Champion meant a lot to him and it meant something to a lot of people too. There was no shame in losing to Lesnar. What he won’t do is wallow in self-pity. The next chapter would be the best chapter and tonight was the start of him reclaiming what is his. There wasn’t a soul on earth who could stop him.

*******

Omos defeated AJ Styles (3:46)

Styles used strikes and tried to outsmart Omos but Omos just cut him off with a big boot. Styles fought back and tried a Phenomenal forearm but Omos swatted him out of mid-air.

Omos hit a big press slam before hitting a tree slam for the decisive win.

********

Next week: Alexa Bliss’ journey back to Raw. (She isn’t necessarily returning next week based on how they phrased this.)

********

I know it’s been Rollins’ nickname for a while, but they’re really all-in on calling him Seth “Freakin’” Rollins. I hope one of the announcers calls him Freakin’ Rollins like he’s Hitman Hart.

Owens entered, they went to break, they aired the Bliss video, everyone else entered, and they went to break again.

Fatal 4-way match: Bobby Lashley defeated Kevin Owens, Big E and Seth Rollins (18:40)

This was excellent.

Big E hit Owens with a spear through the ropes less than a minute into the match. It looked like he landed hard but he popped right up to face off with Lashley in the ring. Lashley got the better of that exchange and gave Big E a vertical suplex before doing the same to Owens.

The crowd chanted for “Bobby” as he sprinted toward Owens for a spear outside the ring but Owens moved and Lashley crashed through the barricade. Big E suplexed Rollins on the mats before clearing the announce table but Owens saved Rollins. Owen and Rollins gave Big E a Shield powerbomb through the table which led to break.

Owens and Rollins continued to team up on Lashley and Big E. Big E gave Rollins an STO but ran into an Owens superkick and Lashley decked Owens.

Big E and Lashley gave each other a look and decided to go after Owens and Rollins. Big E and Lashley chased them through the crowd, up the stairs, into the arena concourse. (This particular area of the concourse was sectioned off from the fans which makes these moments feel fake.) Big E slammed Owens through a merch table which led to break.

Rollins, Big E, and Lashley continued to fight the crowd near an entryway until Owens crashed through them with an insane dive off a railing. “This is awesome” chants.

Owens gave Big E a senton and Rollins followed with a frog splash. Owens actually didn’t break up the cover and watched as Rollins got a nearfall. They both hit superkicks and Owens hit a pop-up powerbomb but Lashley pushed Rollins into them to break up the cover.

Lashley tossed around Owens and Rollins but Rollins pushed Big E into a Lashley spear. Lashley also speared Rollins.

Owens tried a stunner but Lashley blocked it and hit a spear for the pinfall win.

It’s Lesnar vs. Lashley at the Rumble.

Lashley got a few moments to celebrate post-match as the announcers put over the win and the Lesnar/Lashley match.

Patrick approached Lesnar in the back. Lesnar wanted Reigns to know that he’d be on Smackdown on Friday.

WWE title number one contender’s match announced for Raw

Posted on January 3, 2022 by Joseph Currier

WWE has revealed how the first challenger for Brock Lesnar’s WWE Championship will be determined.

Big E, Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens, and Bobby Lashley will face off in a fatal four-way number one contender’s match on Raw tonight. The winner will challenge for Lesnar’s WWE title at the Royal Rumble on Saturday, January 29.

Big E vs. Rollins vs. Owens vs. Lashley was originally supposed to be the WWE Championship match at Day 1 this past Saturday, but the card for the show underwent a major shakeup after Roman Reigns tested positive for COVID-19. Instead of challenging for Reigns’ Universal Championship, Lesnar was added to the WWE title match. Lesnar pinned Big E to win the WWE Championship.

Big E was WWE Champion heading into Day 1.

Dave Meltzer reported that, as of Saturday night, Lesnar vs. Lashley was planned to be the next direction for the WWE title.

Tonight’s Raw is taking place at Bon Secours Wellness Arena in Greenville, South Carolina. An appearance by Lesnar will kick off the show. WWE has also announced that Damian Priest will defend his United States title against Dolph Ziggler tonight. Plus, AJ Styles will face his former tag team partner Omos.

Brock Lesnar vs. Bobby Lashley next WWE title match direction

Posted on January 3, 2022 by Josh Nason

Image: WWE

The next planned direction for new WWE Champion Brock Lesnar will be former champion Bobby Lashley, according to Dave Meltzer.

Meltzer said that as of Saturday night, that was the plan and the reason the Day 1 five-way title match was put together the way it was, especially with Lashley glaring at Lesnar after the latter had won the title.

During the match, Lesnar never hit an F5 on Lashley while Lashley had Lesnar in the Hurt Lock but had to be saved by Big E, seen above.

When it happens, it will be the first singles meeting between them. Both are also former MMA heavyweights as Lesnar held UFC gold and became one of the sport’s biggest pay-per-view draws while Lashley ran up a 15-2 record, finishing up in Bellator MMA in 2016 with five straight stoppage wins.

Meltzer said there is still a planned Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns direction to include whatever was to take place Saturday when the long-reigning Universal Champion was forced to pull out due to contracting COVID-19. Lesnar was set to have another match with Reigns Saturday, but was added into the fatal four-way with Big E, Kevin Owens, Seth Rollins and Lashley instead.

Lashley is looking to regain the title he lost to Big E on the September 13th Raw where Big E gave his intent to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase the day before. It’s unknown what is next for the former champion who was in his first WWE title reign.

WWE Day 1 live results: Fatal five-way WWE title match

Posted on January 1, 2022 by Dave Bath

WWE is ringing in the new year with Day 1 taking place at State Farm Arena in Atlanta tonight.

The card for WWE’s first-ever New Year’s Day pay-per-view has undergone some significant last-minute changes. Due to Roman Reigns testing positive for COVID-19, his Universal Championship match against Brock Lesnar that was supposed to headline tonight’s show is now off.

Lesnar has instead been added to tonight’s WWE Championship match. Big E will defend his title against Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens, Bobby Lashley, and Lesnar in a fatal five-way.

Also on tonight’s show, Liv Morgan challenges Becky Lynch for the Raw Women’s Championship, Edge faces The Miz, The Usos defend their SmackDown Tag Team titles against The New Day, RK-Bro take on The Street Profits with the Raw Tag Team titles on the line, Drew McIntyre faces Madcap Moss, and Cesaro & Ricochet team up against Sheamus & Ridge Holland.

Cesaro & Ricochet vs. Sheamus & Holland will be tonight’s pre-show match. The pre-show begins at 7 p.m. Eastern time, with the main card starting an hour later.

**********

Pre-Show

Kayla Braxton wasted no time and addressed the changes to the lineup tonight. She announced that Brock Lesnar’s added to the WWE Championship match, making it a fatal five-way. She noted that Reigns announced testing positive for Covid on social media an hour ago.

Tonight’s pre-show panel consists of Braxton, Kevin Patrick, JBL, Booker T, and Pete Rosenberg. They ran down the lineup for tonight’s card with the changes.

They recapped the Edge and Miz feud. After the video recap, Braxton was laughing about Miz and Maryse’s blood bath on Raw. The Miz interrupted and was furious that Braxton was laughing. Miz mentioned appearing on Dancing with the Stars, and Rosenberg pointed out that he lost. Miz blamed the fans for not voting for him. He promised to defeat Edge tonight and gain the respect that he deserves.

Sonya Deville joined the panel to discuss the Raw Women’s title match. Deville believes that Morgan’s ready to move up and win the title. Braxton mentioned Deville’s problems with Naomi. Deville noted she’s an official, and Naomi can’t put her hands on her.

In the back, Megan Morant interviewed New Day. King Xavier Woods read a proclamation and promised to win the tag titles tonight. He declared New Year’s Day is now New Day Day. Kingston noted they defeated The Usos before.

The panel then discussed Drew McIntyre vs. Madcap Moss and Raw Tag Team Champions RK-Bro defending against The Street Profits.

Sheamus & Ridge Holland defeated Cesaro & Ricochet (9:43)

Holland suffered a legit injury within the first few moments of the match. They immediately took him to the back, and it became Sheamus against Cesaro & Ricochet. They had a good match considering they had to change it on the fly.

The faces had the early advantage when Cesaro caught Holland and slammed him down. Ricochet tagged in, and the fans popped. Cesaro assisted Ricochet in hitting a standing shooting star press for a near fall. Ricochet’s knee connected with Holland’s face on the landing. The fans broke into a loud “Ricochet” chant.

Michael Cole noted that Holland had a broken nose and was taken to the back by medical staff. Sheamus is now fighting both guys on his own.

Sheamus slowed the pace down with a chin lock. Ricochet tried fighting back, but Sheamus hit the Irish Curse backbreaker for a near fall. Sheamus dominated Ricochet until Cesaro got the hot tag. Cesaro ran wild and hit a running uppercut against the barricade at ringside.

Cesaro hit a flying crossbody for a close near fall. He then gave Sheamus the giant swing into the sharpshooter. Sheamus fought back and made it to the bottom rope. Sheamus caught Cesaro with a knee, but Ricochet broke up the pin attempt.

Ricochet sent Sheamus to the floor and attempted a plancha. Sheamus caught Ricochet and hit white noise. Sheamus jumped off the top rope, but Cesaro caught him with an uppercut. The finish came when Cesaro missed a tackle in the corner, and Sheamus hit the Brogue Kick to win.

The panel ran down the lineup again and took a closer look at the fatal five-way main event.

Main Show

The opening video featured Quavo of Migos.

Michael Cole recapped the changes to the card tonight and showed Roman Reigns’ tweet announcing he tested positive for Covid.

SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos defeated The New Day to retain the titles (17:02)

New Day and The Usos had a great hard-hitting, fast-paced opener. The fans were into it and reacted big for the finish.

They recapped the Usos and New Day feud. They did the special ring introductions for the tag title match.

The faces had the early advantage as they isolated Jimmy on their side of the ring. Kofi Kingston when after Jey on the apron, but it allowed Jimmy to hit a superkick. Jey then rocked Kingston with a clothesline at ringside. The Usos took over and beat down Kingston.

Jey mimicked Reigns’ superman punch and hit the Rikishi splash in the corner. He missed a second splash, and Kingston briefly fought back. The Usos regained control after knocking Woods off the apron. Jey and Kingston fought on the top rope. Kingston knocked Jey off and hit a DDT.

Woods got the hot tag and ran wild on Jimmy. He hit a rolling clothesline on Jimmy and a dropkick to the back of Jey’s neck. Woods then hit a side Russian leg sweep on Jimmy. Jey jumped in the way of a dropkick to save his brother. Jimmy then slammed Woods on the announce table.

Jimmy and Jey gave Woods an assisted Samoan Drop for a close near fall. Kingston tagged in and hit a double foot stomp for a near fall. He followed up with the boom drop and set up for trouble in paradise, but Jey countered with a superkick. Jimmy hit the splash for another close near fall. The fans broke into a loud “This is awesome” chant.

Jimmy attacked Kingston’s leg and locked on a half-crab, but Kingston made it to the ropes. Woods then dragged Jimmy out of the ring, and Kingston scored several near falls on Jey.

Kingston hit the SOS for another close near fall. New Day then hit the backbreaker/foot stomp combo for a near fall. The fans broke into another loud “This is awesome” chant.
The Usos fought back and hit a double superkick on Kingston. They followed up with a double diving splash on Kingston, but Woods broke up the pin attempt.

The fans broke into a “New Day rocks” chant. Both teams faced off in the middle of the ring and traded shots. The finish came when The Usos caught Kingston with superkicks and then hit the 3-D for the win. McAfee called it the 1-D.

The recapped Big E winning the WWE title. Kevin Patrick interviewed Big E in the back. Big E knows tonight’s main event isn’t going to be easy, but he’s going to figure out a way to leave tonight as the WWE Champion.

In the back, Kayla Braxton interviewed Migos. The fans popped and gave them a good reaction. They’re excited to be at Day 1 tonight. They’re big fans and teased a surprise for later.

Drew McIntyre defeated Madcap Moss (w/Happy Corbin) (9:41)

McIntrye and Moss had a fine match that dragged at times. It picked up towards the end, but the crowd seemed dead for most of it.

Before the match, Happy Corbin and Madcap Moss told some bad jokes and made fun of Atlanta. Moss made fun of McIntyre and said some more lame jokes.

McIntrye rocked Moss with a shoulder tackle for the early advantage. Moss briefly fought back and laughed at McIntrye. McIntyre recovered and backed Moss into the corner. He rocked Moss with a clothesline and hit an impressive suplex for a near fall.

Moss caught McIntrye with a boot to the face, but McIntrye sent Moss to the floor. Corbin tried to interfere, but McIntrye hit a belly-to-belly suplex. Corbin distracted McIntyre and Moss took over.

Moss hit a shoulder tackle for a near fall and slowed the pace down with a chin lock. McIntrye fought back after Moss missed a tackle in the corner and hit the middle turnbuckle. McIntrye hit a neck breaker and went for the future shock DDT. Moss fought back, but McIntyre hit a pop-up powerbomb for a near fall.

McIntrye went for a crossbody, but Moss caught him. Moss fumbled around a bit but recovered and hit a fallaway slam. McIntrye fought back and hit a future shock DDT. Moss caught McIntrye in the tree of woe, but McIntrye countered with a suplex.

McIntrye went for the Claymore, but Moss countered with a kick to the face. McIntrye recovered and hit the Claymore to win.

In the back, Megan Morant interviewed Kevin Owens. He wasn’t happy that they added Brock Lesnar to the main event. He said Rollins and Owens would work together until it’s just them. He promised to take out Lesnar. He’s been paying attention to how Lesnar treated his soul mate, Sami Zayn.

Raw Team Team Champions RK-Bro (w/Migos) defeated The Street Profits to retain the titles (11:13)

RK-Bro and the Street Profits had a good match.

The fans popped when Migos came out with RK-Bro. Migos sat at ringside to watch the title match.

The Street Profits had the early advantage after Angelo Dawkins rocked Riddle with a shoulder tackle. Dawkins looked over at Migos. Orton tagged in, and the fans broke into loud “Randy” and “RKO” chants. Dawkins mocked Orton’s pose.

Montez Ford danced into the ring as Orton just watched. Ford backed Orton into the corner, but Orton fought back with a standing dropkick. Riddle went for a suplex, but Ford slipped out and tagged in Dawkins.

The Street Profits isolated Riddle in their corner and cut him off from Orton. Ford then rocked Riddle with a penalty kick and hit a standing moonsault. He followed up with a splash for a near fall. The announcers noted the Street Profits are being more aggressive.

Riddle fought back, and Orton got the hot tag. He ran wild on Ford and hit a power slam. Orton looked over at Migos and hit a double draping DDT on the Street Profits. Orton went for the RKO, but Ford countered with a cradle for a near fall. Riddle knocked Dawkins off the apron with a jumping knee. Ford then shoved Riddle off the ropes, and he landed on Dawkins.

Ford then hit a huge running dive over the corner onto RK-Bro at ringside. The finish came when Orton avoided the frog splash. Riddle then threw Ford in the air, and Orton hit the RKO to win.

After the match, RK-Bro and the Street Profits shook hands and celebrated with Migos.

Megan Morant interviewed Drew McIntrye backstage. Madcap Moss and Happy Corbin jumped McIntrye. He briefly fought back, but the heels beat him down with a chair. They put his head in the chair and gave him the Pillmanizer.

Kayla Braxton interviewed Brock Lesnar backstage. Lensar imitated Paul Heyman’s introduction. He noted he could do whatever he wanted because he’s a free agent and thanked his advocate Paul Heyman. He promised to win the WWE title and said that’s a spoiler.

Edge defeated The Miz (w/Maryse) (20:00)

Edge and Miz had a good match that started slowly but picked up towards the end. The fans popped for Beth Phoenix appearance at the end of the match.

They recapped the Edge and Miz feud. Edge did the old Brood entrance and came out to the Broods music before changing to his theme music. The fans broke into a loud “Let’s go Edge” chant.

Miz took Edge down with a hip toss and celebrated on the corner. Miz went for the hip toss again, but Edge reversed. He went for the cross face, but Miz broke free. Miz sent Edge to the floor but missed a dropkick through the ropes. Maryse distracted Edge, which allowed Miz to push him into the ring post.

Miz slowed the pace down and worked over Edge’s leg. Edge fought back and hit an inverted draping DDT for a two-count. Miz tried to fight back, but Edge hit a sidewalk slam for a near fall. Miz took advantage by kicking the knee and hitting a DDT for two-count. The fans broke into a “Miz you suck” chant.

Miz hit the It kicks on Edge, but he avoided and rolled him up for a near fall. Edge fought back and dropped Miz on the apron. Edge then hit an impaler DDT off the apron for a near fall. Miz regained control and slammed Edge’s head on the announce table. Miz went for the Skull Crushing Finale on the announce table, but Edge countered and dropped him face-first on the desk.

Edge then hit a flying crossbody for another near fall. Miz went for the Skull Crushing Finale again, but Edge rolled him up for a two-count. Miz sent Edge into the ring post and attacked the leg. He followed up with the figure four leg lock, but Edge reversed.

Miz gave Edge a slingshot into the corner and rolled him up with his feet on the ropes. The referee caught Miz trying to cheat. Edge got the cross face on Miz, but Maryse put his foot on the bottom rope to break the hold. Miz hung Edge on the top rope and went for the inverted DDT. Edge countered with a backslide, but Miz broke free. They rocked each other with a boot at the same time.

Edge gave Miz a hip toss off the top rope. Edge went for the spear, but Miz jumped out of the way. Edge hit the ring post, and Maryse hit him in the face with her bag. Miz then hit the Skull Crushing Finale for a very close near fall.

Maryse jumped on the apron and yelled at the referee. Suddenly, Beth Phoenix appeared on the stage. She stood there for several moments before her music hit. Phoenix ran down to ringside, so Maryse took off. Miz yelled at Phoenix. Edge then hit the spear for the win. Edge and Phoenix posed in the ring after the match.

In the back, Kevin Patrick interviewed Bobby Lashley and MVP. MVP promised that Lashley would win the title. Lashley added that he would put the Hurt Lock on Brock Lesnar.

Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch defeated Liv Morgan to retain the title (16:56)

Lynch and Morgan worked hard and had a good match.

They recapped the Becky Lynch and Liv Morgan feud. The fans gave Morgan a big reaction during the special ring introductions. Lynch got a mixed response from the fans.

Morgan slammed Lynch’s head on the announce table for the early advantage. She went for the dis-arm-her, but Lynch broke free.

Morgan went for a hurricanrana, but Lynch held on and swung her into the corner. Lynch beat down Morgan and hit a leg drop off the second turnbuckle for a near fall. Byron Saxton claimed that Lynch is losing confidence because she can’t put Morgan away. Lynch followed up with an exploder suplex for a two-count. She became frustrated and yelled at Morgan to stay down.

Morgan fought back and sent Lynch face-first into the turnbuckle. She missed a tackle in the corner but hit a dropkick off the second turnbuckle. Lynch fought back with a suplex and locked on an armbar, but Morgan broke free. Morgan climbed to the top rope, but Lynch cut her off.

Lynch went for a superplex, but Morgan slipped out. Morgan then ran up the ropes and hit a sunset bomb for a very close near fall.

Morgan hesitated, which allowed Lynch to lock on the dis-arm-her. Morgan made it to the ropes, but Lynch wouldn’t break the hold. Lynch was firmly in control and slammed Morgan face-first for another near fall. Lynch missed a leg drop, and Morgan hit a missile dropkick. Lynch rolled to the floor, but Morgan hit a suicide dive. Morgan threw Lynch back in the ring, but Lynch rolled out the other side.

Lynch slammed Morgan’s head on the announce table and tried to win by count-out. Morgan beat the count, but Lynch threw her back out. Morgan fought back and trapped Lynch in the steps. Morgan stomped on Lynch and put her back in the ring. Morgan locked on the rings of Saturn, but Lynch reversed for a near fall. The finish came when Morgan went for the Oblivion. Lynch countered and hit the Manhandle slam for the win. Lynch tried to put her feet on the bottom rope but was too far.

In the back, Kevin Patrick interviewed Seth Rollins. Rollins promised to stomp heads and win the title.

They recapped the pre-show match and Ridge Holland’s injury.

Johnny Knoxville announced he’s entering the Royal Rumble on Instagram.

Fatal Five-Way: Brock Lesnar defeated Big E, Kevin Owens, Seth Rollins, and Bobby Lashley to win the WWE Championship (8:19)

This was a good hard-hitting and wild fatal-five-way main event. It was also the shortest match on the main card.

Owens and Rollins jumped Lesnar as he entered the ring. Lesnar fought back and gave them both German suplexes. Lashley knocked Big E to the floor, but he recovered and jumped back in the ring. Big E rocked Lesnar with a clothesline and sent him to the floor. Lashley took over. He put Big E on his shoulders and drove him into the ring post.

Lashley then speared Lesnar through the barricade to a huge pop. Lashley was firmly in control, but Owens and Rollins worked together. They rocked Lashley with double superkicks. Rollins then took out Lesnar with a suicide dive. Owens followed up with a frog splash off the apron on Lesnar. The fans broke into a “This is awesome” chant.

Owens and Rollins picked up the steps and hit Lensar. They then hit Lashley with the steps. Owens and Rollins tried to put Lashley through the announce table, but he fought back. Big E recovered and gave Lashley the uranage through the table instead. Owens and Rollins then gave Lensar a double DDT on the stairs. In the ring, Owens hit a pop-up powerbomb on Big E for a close near fall.

Owens went for the Swanton, but Big E got his knees up. Rollins immediately hit the phoenix splash on Big E for a close two count. Rollins set up for the stomp on Big E, but Lesnar caught him in mid-air and hit the F-5. He also hit the F-5 on Owens and then Big E. Suddenly, Lashley speared Lesnar for a close near fall.

Lashley got the hurt lock on Lesnar. Lesnar couldn’t break free until Big E made the save and broke up the submission. Big E went for the Big Ending on Lesnar, but he slipped out and hit the F-5 on Big E to win the WWE Championship. Lashley and Lesnar had a brief staredown as Lashley walked off.

After the match, Lesnar celebrated in the ring and posed with the WWE title to end Day 1.