We have an update with more info on a number of COVID cases involving pro wrestling including more on Chris Jericho, Nick Jackson, Drew McIntyre, Mick Foley, Les Thatcher and more. We look at what Paul Levesque said about the COVID issue, Jericho talking about getting it in September, Nick Jackson, and more on others in the industry.
Also in this issue:
We also have our 2020 Business Year in Review issue talking about the biggest crowds, the biggest PPVs, how the year was totally different from any other, UFC business history and more.
Every major promotion, why this year is so hard to evaluate, what you can’t learn from the past year and can, how things look going into the new year, and issues going forward for every company.
Raw, Smackdown AEW and NXT and compare how they are doing now with one year ago, and where things will be in one year if the current direction doesn’t change.
How much money Linda McMahon donated to Trump’s re-election and funding of the recent attempt to take over the capitol.
Royal Rumble update, how much money top stars can earn from doing social media advertising, Update on WWE’s new A&E documentaries for this year, biggest Wednesday drawing card, more on the next TV special for India, new stars from India debuting including two giants, Dusty Rhodes tag tourney news, the next Takeover show, Injury updates, Lita talks about when she was threatened with being fired, Ricochet contract notes, U.S. sports ratings, U.K. and Canadian TV ratings, New NXT stars, movie star teases working with WWE, Upcoming WWE television shows WWE market value and the most-watched shows on the WWE Network.
Vince McMahon’s lawsuit against Oliver Luck and Luck’s lawsuit against Vince McMahon. We look at McMahon’s complaints as well as what others involved said including some day-by-day looks at aspects of the XFL and its death.
How COVID has changed Japanese wrestling along with new restrictions and what they mean and how they relate to wrestling and the New Japan big show lineup over the next several weeks.
List of the 20 biggest crowds for pro wrestling ever in the country of Canada and notes about business peaks.
Rundowns of the major television shows.
Television ratings of the past week, including segment-by-segment numbers for the past two weeks on Wednesday, who was watching in different age groups, how different segments did on Raw & Smackdown and more.
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Rey Mysterio, Booker T, Dolph Ziggler, Robert Roode, and Chad Gable were guests on today’s episode of The Bump.
Gable on The Bump hinted that his former tag team partner, Jason Jordan, may be returning to the ring. “It is unfortunate what happened to him with his injury,” said Gable. “But you never say never. He’s working on it, he’s trying to get back and who knows. A reunion is always something that I would never be against.” Jordan has not wrestled since suffering a neck injury in 2018 and is currently working backstage as a producer.
The Undertaker was a guest on this week’s Joe Rogan Experience podcast.
A Fight Pit weigh-in was held prior to tonight’s match between Tommaso Ciampa and Timothy Thatcher.
Stephanie McMahon spoke to The Wrap about WrestleMania 37 moving to Raymond James Stadium.
Stephanie also spoke to TMZ on WWE planning to have fans at WrestleMania.
Tegan Nox, Santino Marella, and Charlotte will be on next week’s episode of The Bump.
Fightful Select reports that James Storm, who returned and competed on Impact last night, is not under contract.
Lindsay Snow on Twitter: “Surgery set for a week from tomorrow, tore my acl and meniscus so I get to have a dead persons acl now. I’ll be part zombie upon my return… 9 months and one week. 2021 can still be my year Face with tears of joy. Wanna see what a $700 knee brace looks like ?”
AEW Heels will hold their first 2021 session on January 29 with special guest Kate Matsudaira and a Q&A with Tay Conti.
Tinieblas, Blue Demon Jr., and Caristico expressed interested in running for mayor of Mexico City.
Eight-man tag team action is set for tonight’s TLC pre-show.
WWE has announced that Big E, Daniel Bryan, Chad Gable & Otis vs. Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn, Baron Corbin, Cesaro & Shinsuke Nakamura will be the pre-show match for tonight’s TLC pay-per-view. The one-hour pre-show begins at 6 p.m. Eastern time and will air on the WWE Network and WWE’s social platforms.
Big E and Bryan have both lost to Zayn by countout in non-title matches on SmackDown in recent weeks. On this past Friday’s SmackDown, there was a segment where Big E got back at Zayn by ruining his “first annual Sami Awards.”
After Gable & Otis lost to Cesaro & Nakamura the previous week, Otis defeated Nakamura in a singles match on this past Friday’s SmackDown.
Wesley Blake and Steve Cutler returned to WWE television earlier this month as Corbin’s Knights of The Lone Wolf.
There are now seven matches in total announced for tonight’s TLC event. Here’s the updated card for the show:
Universal Champion Roman Reigns defends his title against Kevin Owens in a tables, ladders, and chairs match
WWE Champion Drew McIntyre defends his title against AJ Styles in a tables, ladders, and chairs match
Randy Orton vs. “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt in a Firefly Inferno match
SmackDown Women’s Champion Sasha Banks defends her title against Carmella
Women’s Tag Team Champions Shayna Baszler & Nia Jax defend their titles against Asuka and a partner of her choosing
Raw Tag Team Champions The New Day (Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods) defend their titles against The Hurt Business (Shelton Benjamin & Cedric Alexander)
Big E, Daniel Bryan, Chad Gable & Otis vs. Sami Zayn, Baron Corbin, Cesaro & Shinsuke Nakamura (pre-show)
Chad Gable is no longer going by the name Shorty G on WWE television.
After losing to Lars Sullivan on SmackDown tonight, Gable was interviewed after the match and declared that he quits. There was then a backstage segment where Adam Pearce checked on Gable and asked him about quitting. Gable said that he’s quitting being Shorty G.
Gable told Pearce that he’s done being a character who talks about accepting who you are and it all being fine. Gable said he doesn’t accept this Shorty G crap. He said people can’t achieve anything they want — and neither can Shorty G. Gable listed his achievements as an amateur wrestler and said there’s only one man who can achieve anything he wants — and his name is Chad Gable.
Gable had been using the Shorty G moniker since October 2019. He adopted the name during a feud with Baron Corbin where Corbin was mocking Gable for being short.
WWE has revealed the destination for one of the undrafted wrestlers from night one of this year’s WWE Draft.
In a video posted before tonight’s Raw, WWE announced that Shorty G (Chad Gable) has been drafted to SmackDown. That’s also the brand he was on prior to the start of the draft. In his most recent match, Shorty G was quickly defeated by Sheamus on the October 2 episode of SmackDown.
Mickie James and The Lucha House Party’s Gran Metalik & Lince Dorado are the other wrestlers who weren’t drafted from the night one draft pool. WWE posted a video tonight featuring more dissension between The Lucha House Party after Kalisto was drafted to SmackDown without his teammates during the first portion of the draft.
WWE announced prior to the draft that any undrafted wrestlers would “immediately be declared free agents and able to sign with the brand of their choosing.”
The draft will conclude with night two taking place on tonight’s episode of Raw. Wrestlers from the night two draft pool are eligible to be selected by Raw or SmackDown tonight.
With two additions tonight, the card for the Royal Rumble is now up to seven announced matches.
WWE has announced that SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley will defend her title against Lacey Evans at the pay-per-view. Sheamus vs. Shorty G has also been added to the card for the show.
The SmackDown Women’s Championship match was confirmed for the Royal Rumble after Evans defeated Bayley in a non-title match tonight. Evans vs. Sasha Banks had been announced for the episode, but there was an angle where it didn’t happen for the second straight week.
Evans attacked Banks and brawled with Bayley backstage until officials separated them. In the trainers’ room after, Adam Pearce told Bayley that she would be taking Banks’ place in the match.
After Sheamus laid out Gable two weeks ago, there was a backstage interview with Gable on SmackDown tonight. Sheamus interrupted the interview and mocked Gable’s height. Gable then attacked him and they brawled until it was broken up.
Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas is hosting the Royal Rumble on January 26. Here’s the updated card:
Men’s Royal Rumble match
Women’s Royal Rumble match
Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch defending against Asuka
Universal Champion “The Fiend” Bray Wyatt defending against Daniel Bryan in a strap match
SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley defending against Lacey Evans
Roman Reigns vs. Baron Corbin in a falls count anywhere match
Team SmackDown is the second group to be revealed for this year’s traditional Survivor Series men’s elimination match.
Roman Reigns, King Corbin, Braun Strowman, Mustafa Ali & Shorty G (Chad Gable) will represent SmackDown in their triple threat elimination tag match against Team Raw and Team NXT. The announcement of the team was made on last night’s episode of WWE Backstage.
On Monday, Seth Rollins, Kevin Owens, Randy Orton, Ricochet & Drew McIntyre were announced as Raw’s team for the match. NXT’s team has yet to be revealed.
There will also be a women’s division elimination tag match between the brands at Survivor Series. Sasha Banks, Dana Brooke & Carmella are the first three wrestlers confirmed for Team SmackDown.
Survivor Series is taking place at the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, Illinois on Sunday, November 24. Here’s the updated card for the pay-per-view:
WWE Champion Brock Lesnar defending against Rey Mysterio
Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch vs. SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley vs. NXT Women’s Champion Shayna Baszler in a non-title match
United States Champion AJ Styles vs. Intercontinental Champion Shinsuke Nakamura vs. NXT North American Champion Roderick Strong in a non-title match
Raw Tag Team Champions The Viking Raiders (Ivar & Erik) vs. SmackDown Tag Team Champions The New Day (Big E & Kofi Kingston) vs. NXT Tag Team Champions The Undisputed Era (Kyle O’Reilly & Bobby Fish) in a non-title match
Team Raw vs. Team SmackDown vs. Team NXT five-on-five-on-five men’s elimination tag match
Team Raw vs. Team SmackDown vs. Team NXT five-on-five-on-five women’s elimination tag match
The lineup for the Team Hogan vs. Team Flair match at Crown Jewel is almost fully set.
On tonight’s SmackDown, it was announced that Roman Reigns, Ali, and Shorty G (Chad Gable) will be on Team Hogan. They’ll be teaming with Rusev & Ricochet against Team Flair in the five-on-five tag match.
Randy Orton, King Corbin, Bobby Lashley & Shinsuke Nakamura will be on Team Flair. The last member of their team has yet to be revealed.
Reigns is the captain of Team Hogan, while Orton is the captain of Team Flair. Seth Rollins was originally announced as the captain of Team Hogan, but he was removed from the match after it was announced that he’ll be defending his Universal Championship against The Fiend in a falls count anywhere match at Crown Jewel.
Hulk Hogan and Ric Flair will both be appearing on SmackDown next week, which is airing live on FS1 due to game three of the World Series being on FOX.
Hogan and Flair are the coaches of their teams but won’t be wrestling in the match.
Crown Jewel is taking place at King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on Thursday, October 31. It will air live on the WWE Network, with the main card starting at 1 p.m. Eastern time.
Location: Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee
The Big Takeaways —
WWE has inadvertently created a new top babyface in The Fiend. The crowd chants his catchphrase, and cheers wildly for him. Of course, he is supposed to be a heel.
The Fiend is playing mind games with Seth Rollins, who could not beat up more than one guy on his own tonight, on a show where Braun Strowman left three of the four tag champs laying, and 52 year-old Kane beat up five men on his own.
Becky Lynch wants to destroy Sasha Banks inside Hell in a Cell. The attention paid to small details is differentiating this feud from the rest of the madness that is WWE storytelling.
Baron Corbin is now King of the Ring.
Rusev returned, and in storyline, impregnated Maria Kanellis. Maybe not in that order.
What a night.
Show Recap —
Seth Rollins started the show with a promo. He said that we have a lot to unpack tonight. He proceeded to recap his evening at Clash of Champions. “I didn’t even have time to celebrate before I was cloaked in darkness. I was taken down by something I can only describe as…”
Before he could finish his thought, the crowd interrupted Rollins with a “yowie wowie” chant.
Rollins said that the last thing he saw before he was choked out was the face of The Fiend. Rollins said he gets to face The Fiend inside Hell in a Cell in three weeks at… Hell in a Cell.
Firefly Funhouse music interrupted Rollins. Bray Wyatt appeared on the Titantron. Ramblin’ Rabbit tried to interrupt Wyatt, but Wyatt bopped him on the head.
Wyatt said that Rollins has made mistakes. Wyatt can forgive mistakes, but he said that The Fiend never forgets, and maybe that’s why The Fiend had something to say to Rollins at Clash of Champions.
Wyatt said that maybe The Fiend will have more to say to Rollins tonight, then bid us adieu with a cheery, “See you in hell!”
Rollins tried to sell fear or concern, but the crowd cheered The Fiend, and Rollins won’t be winning an Emmy any time soon.
**********
They advertised two matches for later tonight, Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross vs. Sasha Banks and Bayley, as well as Seth Rollins vs. Robert Roodw.
The match graphics appeared upside down. There might be a Fiend at the controls in the truck.
**********
Braun Strowman was shown arriving at the building. Charly Caruso stopped him for a word. She said that she was surprised that Braun was here tonight. Braun said that the next person he sees is going to get these hands.
**********
Robert Roode, Dolph Ziggler, and The Revival came to the ring for a “tag team summit”. Roode started to cut a promo. Strowman rumbled down to the ring and beat up Ziggler, Dawson, and Wilder. Roode managed to escape. All WWE tag teams are tackling dummies for the real stars.
**********
Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross were shown backstage, pretending to drink coffee out of their new mugs, available on WWE Shop.
Nikki said that they took out the trash last night. Alexa said, “Speaking of trash,” and verbally ran down Bayley and “Sasha Smurf”, and the two promised to beat Banks and Bayley later tonight.
Nikki is a babyface, who then aligned herself with Alexa, who was a heel. Nikki never turned. Now the two are de facto babyfaces, again without the benefit of a turn.
**********
AJ STYLES & THE CLUB DEFEATED CEDRIC ALEXANDER & THE VIKING RAIDERS
Alexander and Styles started off. Alexander hit a knee strike, then a penalty kick. He hit a series of punches in the corner, then tagged Erik. Styles managed a tag to Karl Anderson. Ivar made a blind tag, and Viking Raiders hit tandem offense on Anderson.
Ivar worked over Anderson’s left arm. Gallows and Erik tagged in. Erik missed a meteora in the corner, and The OC took over. On the outside, Styles dropped Erik face-first onto the barricade, as the show went to a commercial break.
Back from break, Erik hit Anderson with a knee strike, then made a hot tag to Ivar. Ivar connected with a senton, then a cartwheel.
The match broke down, and everyone hit a move. Alexander and Anderson were left legal. Alexander hit a handspring kick. Styles blind-tagged his way in, then nailed Alexander with a Phenomenal Forearm for the pin.
After the match, Gallows and Anderson went after Erik on the outside. Ivar hit a flip dive off the post, wiping all three out.
Back in the ring, Alexander crotched Styles on the top rope. He teased a superplex, but Styles blocked it, then hit a Styles Clash off the second rope. Alexander was handed another resounding defeat after his pre-show loss at Clash of Champions.
**********
Renee Young, Michael Cole, and Corey Graves introduced a vignette taped earlier in the day at the Women’s College Basketball Hall of Fame.
R-Truth and Carmella were shown talking about the great basketball teams at the University of Tennessee. Mayor Glen Jacobs entered. R-Truth asked if he was Magic Johnson. Jacobs offered R-Truth a limo tour of Knoxville. R-Truth accepted.
Truth and Jacobs exited the scene, while Carmella looked on… concerned? Suspicious?
The King of the Ring final is up next.
**********
KING OF THE RING FINAL: BARON CORBIN DEFEATED CHAD GABLE
They started the match with some chain wrestling. Corbin forced a rope break, then hit a back elbow. Corbin began working over Gable at a snail’s pace, hitting a series of strikes in the corner, playing to the crowd between each punch.
Gable low-bridged Corbin over the top rope to the apron, then knocked him to the floor with a dropkick. Corbin stumbled to the timekeeper’s area. Gable charged in after him, and Corbin hit a backdrop onto an office chair, as we went to a commercial break.
Back from break, they were teasing a countout. Gable made it back in at 9. Corbin hit a series of elbow strikes, then used a chinlock. Gable took a flip bump off a lariat, and Corbin covered for a two count.
Corbin hit a double sledge to the back. Gable hit a couple of punches and a flying forearm, but Corbin cut him off right away, hitting a big boot. Corbin teased a superplex. Gable slapped on an armbar over the ropes, but Corbin broke the hold with a powerbomb.
Chinlock time. Corbin took a break from the chinlock to yell at the fans. Gable got a single-leg, then used an ankle lock. Corbin escaped, then missed a charge into the corner, posting his own shoulder.
Gable hit a missile dropkick, then three front-flip kicks. He went for a fourth, but Corbin hit a pop-up powerslam for a nearfall. Corbin dragged Gable to the floor, then sent him into the barricade.
Corbin missed a running attack and ran shoulder-first into the ring steps. Gable then posted Corbin’s left leg. Gable hit a dropkick to the leg, then a series of punches.
Gable hit the ropes, but ran right into a Deep Six. Corbin covered, but Gable kicked out.
Gable hit a victory roll into a bridging German for a nearfall. Gable went for a moonsault, but Corbin moved. Gable landed on his feet. Gable avoided End of Days, then applied the ankle lock again. After a long tease, Corbin forced a rope break.
Gable hit a series of strikes in the corner. He went for a tornado DDT, but Corbin reversed it into End of Days for the pin.
The first half of the match was boring. The second half was good. Corey Graves was insufferable on commentary throughout.
**********
They cut to a scene of Sarah Schreiber, Kayla Braxton, Titus O’Neil, Curt Hawkins, The Street Profits, and Maria and Mike Kanellis partying in the back.
The Kanellis Baby’s GENDER REVEAL PARTY is next.
**********
Maria revealed that her baby is a boy. She told Mike that Ricochet was her baby’s father. Ricochet denied it. Mike slapped Ricochet and told him to meet him in the ring.
Titus told Ricochet he better go to the ring and do something about it all of this.
Angelo Dawkins said he was surprised that Maria didn’t say that he was the father. The Street Profits made a stripper joke about Maria.
This led to…
RICOCHET DEFEATED MIKE KANELLIS
Ricochet beat Kanellis with a codebreaker in a quick squash. The announcers played all of this for laughs. Graves made references to divorce and paying child support.
**********
Another Firefly Funhouse segment was up next. Bray Wyatt showed us his wall of friendship, which featured photos of Mick Foley, Kurt Angle, Finn Balor and Jerry Lawler (The Big 4), all with their faces crossed out.
Wyatt said it’s time for him to make some new friends tonight.
**********
Back from break, Mike was still sitting in the ring. Maria stood on the stage. She cut a promo on Mike. She said Ricochet isn’t the baby’s father, she was only trying to motivate Mike to fight for her honor.
Maria then said that it was time to introduce the real father… Rusev.
Rusev made his triumphant return and stomped to the ring. Mike cut a promo. He said he’s having a bad day and a worse night. He congratulated Rusev and Maria and tried to beg off. Rusev beat Mike all around ringside. Michael Cole called Mike a loser on commentary.
RUSEV DEFEATED MIKE KANELLIS
Rusev hit some stomps, then used the Accolade, and Kanellis tapped out right away, losing his second squash in as many segments.
**********
Mayor Jacobs was shown giving Truth a tour of the University of Tennessee’s football stadium. Jacobs put over the local police, and introduced Truth to a police officer. The officer took off his uniform, revealing a referee’s shirt.
Truth tried to run away, but ran into the goalpost. Mayor Jacobs covered, and became the new WWE 24/7 Champion.
**********
REY MYSTERIO DEFEATED CESARO
Cesaro came to the ring in running shoes, a track suit, and sunglasses. He announced that the next time he sees Rey’s son, he’s going to beat the hell out of him.
Rey, the valiant babyface fighting for his son’s honor, was immediately cut off, as Cesaro hit an uppercut forearm for a nearfall. Cesaro took the first several minutes of the match, using Irish whips to send Rey around the ring.
Rey made a comeback, then hit a suicide dive, which led to a commercial break.
Cesaro was in control when we returned from the break. Cesaro used a chinlock. Rey teased a seated seton, but Cesaro countered with an uppercut forearm. Cesaro hit a slingshot senton for a two count.
Cesaro used another chinlock. Rey went for a sprinboard crossbody. Cesaro blocked it, but Rey was able to hit a crucifix bomb, then a springboard DDT. Rey teased La Mistica, but Cesaro blocked it, then hit an uppercut.
Cesaro used a crossface. Rey reversed into a cradle for a nearfall. Rey hit an enziguri. He went for a 619, but Cesaro caught him, then hit a gutbuster for a two count.
Cesaro went for Three Amigos. Before the third Amigo, Rey blocked it, then hit a hurricanrana. He followed up with a 619, then hit a Canadian Destroyer for the pin.
This was a solid match, but I would like to ban chinlocks. Everyone learn some new holds.
**********
Back in the Firefly Funhouse, a cherubic Bray Wyatt was shown hanging a photo of Rollins on his wall.
**********
The announcers plugged the upcoming WWE Draft, and promised an end to the Wild Card Rule, then threw to a hype video for the Authors of Pain. This was an excellent vignette.
**********
Bayley and Sasha Banks, who owns zero bad ring jackets, entered for their match.
Bliss and Bayley started the match. Bliss worked on Bayley’s left arm, then hit her double knees-standing moonsault combo.
Bliss hit a code red out of the corner. Bayley rolled outside, and Banks went to check on her. Bliss took both out with a flip dive off the apron. Bliss sold as though she injured her leg on the landing.
Bliss tagged Cross, and Bayley cut her off with a knee lift right away. Bayley and Banks used quick tags, working over Cross. Banks hit a vertical suplex for a nearfall on Cross, then kicked Bliss for good measure.
Banks missed a knee drop in the corner. Bayley and Bliss fought on the floor, where Bayley sent Bliss’s injured leg into the steps. Banks continued working over Cross inside.
After a commercial, Bayley had Cross in a chinlock. The announcers explained that Bliss was taken to the back for medical attention.
Banks used Bayley as a springboard and hit a splash in the corner. They looked to repeat the move with Bayley delivering the move this time, but Cross used Banks a springboard instead. That was the idea, at least. Cross slipped jumping off of Banks.
Cross made a comeback. She trapped Banks in the ring skirt, then sent Bayley into the barricade. Cross hit a crossbody off the top for a nearfall. Cross hit some forearm strikes, then hit a bulldog.
Cross hit a dropkick to Banks, freeing her from the ring skirt. Cross hit Bayley with a tornado DDT, then hit her draping neckbreaker. She covered, but Banks made the save.
Banks tagged in. Cross used a cradle for a nearfall. Banks hit a backstabber, then used the Bank Statement, and Cross tapped out.
This was sloppy in places, but everyone worked hard, and overall I would call it a good match, but the crowd didn’t care.
After the match, Banks grabbed a chair. She teased using it on Cross. Becky Lynch ran down with a chair for the save.
Banks and Lynch had a sword fight with their chairs. Bayley jumped in with a chair. Charlotte tiptoed to the ring in the highest heels I’ve ever seen. Bayley went after Flair. Flair hit her with a big boot, then used the chair on Bayley.
Back inside, Lynch ducked a chair shot, then sent Banks packing with a chair shot. The crowd came alive and chanted for Lynch.
**********
Banks cut a promo on Lynch in the locker room area. She said that she’s the talk of the division, and she’s cashing the winner’s check. She challenged Lynch to a rematch at Hell in a Cell, “…that is, unless you’re man enough to accept.” Obviously she misspoke and should have said “unless you’re NOT man enough to accept.”
I feel bad pointing out a flubbed line on live TV.
Banks recovered and ended the promo strongly with a “Your move, bitch.”
I don’t make it a secret that Banks is my favorite wrestler. I may be biased, but I liked the promo.
**********
R-TRUTH DEFEATED MAYOR JACOBS TO WIN THE 24/7 CHAMPIONSHIP
Truth rolled up Jacobs as he arrived at the building, and regained the title. Jacobs teased firing up and becoming Kane, as he grabbed Truth by the throat. Truth talked him down, and they walked into the building together.
**********
The announcers threw to a backstage promo by Lynch.
Lynch said she loved going to war with Banks last night. Lynch said that Banks brought Hell in a Cell into their business, just like she brought a chair into their business. Just like she used the chair against Banks, Lynch promised to use the cell against her.
Lynch said she’s not interested in facing Banks at Hell in a cell, but she is interested in destroying Banks in Hell in a Cell.
I don’t make it a secret that Lynch is my second favorite wrestler. I may be biased, but I liked this promo too.
They are doing little things to differentiate this feud from the rest of the gaga on the show, right down to having these two deliver their promos straight to the camera instead of to a backstage interviewer. Good stuff.
**********
LACEY EVANS DEFEATED DANA BROOKE
Evans threw her skirt at Brooke at the opening bell. Brooke overcame the distraction and hit a handspring back elbow in the corner.
Evans rolled outside. Brooke hit chops on the floor. Evans used a leg sweep and a slingshot dropkick. Brooke came back with clotheslines and a bodyslam.
Evans used a hair pull, then hit the Woman’s Right. She then used a Sharpshooter, which sent a message to Natalya. Brooke tapped out.
They kept this short, and it was fine. The crowd was so quiet that you could hear a single heckler yelling.
**********
The announcers plugged NXT on USA on Wednesday. Seth Rollins was shown warming up in the back. The main event is up next.
**********
SETH ROLLINS DEFEATED ROBERT ROODE BY DQ
This was an above average Raw match.
They started with some basic tackles, dropdowns, leapfrogs and armdrags. Rollins used an armbar, a bodyslam, and a knee drop. Roode cut Rollins off with a knee to the midsection.
Rollins sent Roode outside, but Ziggler distracted him. Rollins overcame the first distraction. Ziggler then distracted him again, and Rollins was not smart enough to pay attention to his opponent. Instead, he focused on Ziggler.
Roode knocked Rollins off the apron, sending him flying into the barricade. Ziggler hit a cheap shot while Roode took the ref. Rollins was on the floor selling as we went to commercial.
Roode used a waistlock, then a tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Roode sent Rollins outside. Ziggler tried a superkick, but Rollins ducked it and hit his own superkick.
Rollins sent Roode into the barricade. Back inside, Rollins hit slingblade. They did a couple of teases. Rollins blocked a DDT, while Roode avoided a springboard knee.
Rollins hit a falcon arrow for a nearfall. Cole said that the fans were looking to “will Rollins back into this match” as we was firmly in control and climbing the ropes to deliver an offensive move.
Roode attempted to cut Rollins off. He teased a superplex, but Rollins dropped him face-first to the mat. Rollins hit a superkick, which is the setup for the Curb Stomp.
Rollins hit the Stomp. He covered, but Ziggler broke up the pin for the DQ. So, Braun can make three tag champs look like dweebs, but the champion of the universe can’t pin one of the tag champs? You hate to see it.
Ziggler and Rollins had a back and forth fight in the ring. A.J. Styles and The OC ran down, and it became 4-on1 against Rollins. It would have been 5-on-1, but Roode was still selling the Stomp.
Styles laid out Rollins with a Styles Clash. Roode woke up and it became 5-on-1.
Kane’s music played, and he lumbered to the ring, where the 52 year old mayor then beat up five men by himself.
After clearing the ring, Kane teased shooting fire from the ring posts… but The Fiend’s special effects started.
The Fiend used a Mandible Claw on Kane, sending himm rolling to the floor.
The Fiend then focused on Rollins. Did he attack him? No. Did he stare at him? Yes.
The show ended with a distorted version of the Firefly Funhouse graphics and theme song.
The finals of WWE’s King of the Ring tournament are officially set.
Chad Gable will face Baron Corbin in the finals on next Monday’s episode of Raw. The finals had originally been planned for Clash of Champions.
With Elias unable to wrestle on tonight’s SmackDown due to an ankle injury, Gable faced Shane McMahon in the semifinals instead. In storyline, Shane put himself into the match and made Kevin Owens the special guest referee. Shane suggested that he would rescind Owens’ $100,000 fine if Owens helped him win.
Owens fast counted to three when Gable pinned Shane with a German suplex right after the match started. Shane then made it a two-out-of-three falls match, but he ended up tapping out to an ankle lock after Owens stopped him from using a steel chair.
Shane “fired” Owens after the match.
Corbin advanced to the King of the Ring finals by defeating Ricochet and Samoa Joe in a triple threat match on this week’s Raw. Corbin defeated The Miz and Cedric Alexander in the first two rounds of the tournament, while Gable defeated Shelton Benjamin and Andrade.
Both semifinal matches are now set for WWE’s King of the Ring tournament.
Elias will take on Chad Gable in a semifinal match on next Tuesday’s SmackDown. Baron Corbin vs. Ricochet vs. Samoa Joe is the semifinal on the Raw side of the bracket and will take place next Monday.
Elias defeated Ali on tonight’s SmackDown to advance to the semifinals. Gable then advanced by defeating Andrade.
Corbin defeated Cedric Alexander in their quarterfinal match on last night’s Raw. Ricochet vs. Joe ended in a double pin, with it later being announced that both Ricochet and Joe are advancing to the semifinals and will face Corbin in a triple threat match.
Joe also appeared on tonight’s SmackDown. Before Gable’s match against Andrade, Joe insulted Gable and called him mentally weak.
Next week’s Raw and SmackDown are both taking place at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The King of the Ring finals will be held at Clash of Champions. The Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina is hosting the pay-per-view on September 15.
The build to Clash of Champions continues as SmackDown takes place from the Norfolk Scope Arena in Norfolk, Virginia.
Daniel Bryan demands an apology from Roman Reigns for spearing him last week. Reigns had proof that Rowan was at the scene of the forklift incident. Bryan denied any involvement, but Reigns speared him anyway.
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston defends against Randy Orton at Clash of Champions. Last week, Orton and Kingston brawled backstage, and Orton gave Kingston a draping DDT on the floor. WWE.com is teasing that Kingston is looking for payback.
SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley turned against Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch last night on Raw. Bayley sided with Sasha Banks and beat down Lynch. Bayley defends her title against Charlotte Flair at Clash of Champions and is scheduled to appear tonight.
The King of the Ring continues with the quarterfinals as Ali takes on Elias and Chad Gable goes one-on-one with Andrade.
Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.
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SmackDown Woman’s Champion Bayley made her way down to the ring. She got a mixed reaction. There was a good amount of boos but also some cheers. She said nothing has changed and she was siding with her best friend. She’s just trying to lift people with her heart and hugs.
She called herself a hero and role model. She’s trying to show the kids what it means to be loyal. Bayley couldn’t turn her back on her friend. She’s trying to put SmackDown on the map and wants to prove that she’s a deserving champion.
Bayley promised to beat the most selfish person on the roster, Charlotte Flair. Flair’s music hit and she made her way to the ring. Flair noted what you see is what you get. She said there is no blindsiding and no hugging. She told Bayley to hold the belt real tight because she’s coming for it.
Sasha Banks music hit, and she walked down the aisle. Flair attacked Bayley and rocked her with a boot. Banks jumped in the ring, but Flair cut her off. Bayley attacked Flair from behind with the chair.
The fans chanted “One more time.” Bayley handed the chair to Banks, and she attacked Flair. The fans broke into a loud “Becky” chant.
Elias defeated Ali in a King of The Ring Quarterfinal match
This was a good match. Ali had the early advantage and sent Elias to the floor. He attempted a dive, but Elias caught him and slammed him on the ramp. Elias threw Ali around ringside and press slammed him into the timekeeper’s area.
Back from the break, Ali rocked Elias with a dropkick. He rocked Elias with hard chops and followed up with the rolling X factor for a near fall.
Ali hit a suicide dive and sent Elias into the barricade. Elias injured his arm, but Ali injured his knee.
Ali climbed to the top, but Elias cut him off. Ali fought back and hit a 450 to Elias’s arm. Ali locked on the cross face, but Elias made the ropes. Elias fought back and hit a sit-out powerbomb for a close near fall.
Elias worked over the injured knee and hit it against the post. They fought on the top rope, but Elias pushed Ali off. Ali moonsaulted to the floor and landed on his feet. Elias attempted a dive, but Ali hit a superkick.
Ali attempted the 450, but Elias moved. Elias fought back and hit the drift away for the win. Elias advances to the semi-finals and faces the winner of Chad Gable vs. Andrade later tonight.
Kayla Braxton interviewed Samoa Joe backstage. He discussed facing Ricochet and Baron Corbin in the semi-finals. He’s here scouting the competition and promises to become king.
Fire & Desire defeated Women’s Tag Team Champions Alexa Bliss & Nikki Cross in a non-title match
Cross attacked Mandy Rose with forearms to start the match. Sonya Deville distracted Cross and Rose attacked her from behind. Cross hit a cross body from the top to the floor.
Back from the break, the heels were firmly in control. Bliss got the hot tag and ran wild. Cross took out Rose with a crossbody.
Bliss caught Deville with a DDT and climbed to the top for Twisted Bliss.
Cross applied the sleeper on Rose on the floor. Rose sent Cross into the apron. Bliss was distracted and then attempted Twisted Bliss, but Deville got her knees up. Rose hit a knee on Bliss for the win.
Samoa Joe ran into Chad Gable in the back. Joe mocked Gable for being short and called him Bilbo. He told Gable he’s mentally weak. Joe walked away, but Gable seemed bothered by the comments.
Randy Orton made his way down to the ring. The fans broke into a loud “Randy” chant. Orton promised to win the WWE Championship at Clash of Champions and called Kofi Kingston a fraud. He discussed injuring Kingston last week.
The fans broke into a loud “Kofi” chant. He showed footage of Orton attacking The New Day over the last few weeks. Orton promised no more traps and challenged Kingston to come down to the ring.
Kingston’s music hit but The Revival attacked him as he came out. Big E and Xavier Woods are injured an unable to help Kingston. Kingston fought back against The Revival, but Orton jumped Kingston.
Orton repeatedly called Kingston stupid as he stomped on him. Kingston fought back again, but he couldn’t overcome the odds. Orton and The Revival then gave Kingston a super RKO.
They recapped the Roman Reigns mystery attacker angle.
Chad Gable defeated Andrade (w/Zelina Vega) in a King of the Ring Quarterfinal match
On commentary, Corey Graves continued to make short jokes throughout the match. Zelina Vega mocked Gable for being short as well.
This was another good match. Andrade attempted a moonsault, but Gable rolled out of the way. Andrade landed on his feet and tried a standing moonsault, but Gable got the knees up.
Gable hit a moonsault for a very close near fall. The fans broke into a “Gable” chant.
Andrade fought back but missed the double knees in the corner.
Gable hit a German suplex, but Vega distracted the referee. Andrade caught Gable with a back elbow and attempted the hammerlock DDT, but Gable rolled through and pinned Andrade to advance to the semi-finals. The fans popped huge for Gable’s win. Gable takes on Elias in the next round.
Aleister Black defeated Shelton Benjamin
Black had the early advantage, but Benjamin took over. Black fought back with kicks. Benjamin caught Black with a knee, but Black hit a series of strikes. Benjamin missed a kick, and Black hit Black Mass for the win.
In the back, Drake Maverick fought off The Singh Brothers and Curtis Axel to retain the 24/7 title. Bo Dallas snuck up from behind and rolled up Maverick to win the title.
Intercontinental Champions Shinsuke Nakamura defeated “Andrew Howard”
Nakamura and Sami Zayn made their way down to the ring. Zayn mocked the fans. He asked Nakamura’s opponent if his name is Andrew Howard. He shook his head no. Zayn said it doesn’t matter since he’s named The Miz tonight.
Zayn did commentary on the live mic during the match. This was a total squash and ended when Nakamura hit the Kinshasa.
Bo Dallas rolled into the ring, trying to get away from a bunch of guys. Maverick rolled up Dallas to regain the 24/7 title.
R-Truth was in a lamp disguise next to the King of the Ring throne. Truth rolled up Maverick to win the title.
Daniel Bryan made his way down to the ring. The fans broke into a loud “Daniel Bryan” chant. He said it’s nice to around people that believe him. He said he hates liars and demands an apology from Roman Reigns.
Reigns made his way down to the ring. Rowan attacked Reigns from behind and threw him into the ring steps. Bryan tried to stop Rowan, but he shoved Bryan to the floor.
Rowan gave Reigns a powerbomb into the ring post. Rowan then gave Reigns the Iron Claw in the ring. He grabbed the mic and pointed out that Reigns thinks Bryan was behind the attack, but it was Rowan. He mocked Reigns and challenged Bryan to come in the ring and slap him. Rowan is nobody’s puppet.
The fans broke into a loud “Yes” chant. Rowan admits he was behind the attacks. He hit Reigns with the steps and cleared the announce table.
Bryan got in Rowan’s face and slapped him. Rowan snapped and gave Bryan the Iron Claw through the table. Rowan yelled that nobody tells him what to do.
SmackDown takes place tonight from the Raising Cane’s River Center Arena in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Last week, Daniel Bryan revealed Rowan’s doppelganger as the “real culprit” that attacked Roman Reigns. Bryan and Rowan are demanding Reigns make a public apology for wrongfully accusing Rowan.
The King of the Ring tournament continues with SmackDown’s remaining first-round matches. Buddy Murphy takes on Ali, and Chad Gable goes one-on-one with Shelton Benjamin.
Randy Orton and The Revival attacked Xavier Woods last week on Raw. WWE Champion Kofi Kingston got some revenge when he attacked Orton and The Revival last Tuesday. Orton and The Revival are scheduled to appear tonight.
SmackDown Woman’s Champion Bayley defends against Charlotte Flair at Clash of Champions. The match was set up last week on a Moment of Bliss, with the segment ending when Bayley shoved Flair out of her chair. Flair promises to respond to Bayley tonight.
Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.
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Kayla Braxton approached Roman Reigns backstage and asked about Daniel Bryan and Rowan demanding an apology. He’s got a lot of unfinished business, but he wants to save it for the ring.
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston made his way down to the ring. They recapped Randy Orton and Kingston’s feud. They announced Kingston defending against Orton for Clash of Champions.
The fans broke into a loud “Kofi” chant. Kingston noted Orton loves to call him stupid. He pointed out that he attacked Orton last week. Orton made this feud personal, but Kingston wants to prove that he deserves to be champion.
Orton made it personal by attacking Woods and bringing his family into it. Last week, Orton slithered away because he saw the look in Kingston’s eyes. He promised to defeat Orton at Clash of Champions and remain the WWE Champion.
Suddenly, Orton started calling Kingston stupid on the big screen. He would come down there to attack Kingston, but instead, he’s going to wait until Clash of Champions. He was trying to figure out what to do when somebody sent him a letter.
Orton read the letter. The letter asked Orton to stop hurting Kingston because it makes him cry at night. The letter is from Kingston’s son. Orton realized he’s staying at the same hotel as Kingston’s family and he’s going to pay his son a visit. Kingston left the ring and ran into the back.
In the back, Kingston attacked Orton and officials tried to break it up. Orton took over and gave Kingston the draping DDT. Orton called Kingston stupid and left.
In the back, Big E left the trainer’s room. Kayla Braxton and asked about Kingston. Big E was furious and promised to get revenge on Orton.
They recapped Buddy Murphy defeating Daniel Bryan last week and Rowan attacking him after the match.
Ali defeated Buddy Murphy in a first-round King of the Ring match
This was a good match with lots of intense back and forth action. They had a heated exchange to start the match. Ali used a hurricanrana and sent Murphy to the floor. He set up for a dive, but Murphy cut him off for a near fall.
Back from the break, Ali used a dropkick and sent Murphy to the floor. He followed up with a suicide dive. In an excellent spot, Ali attempted the rolling X-Factor, but Murphy picked him up and tossed Ali to the floor.
Murphy followed up with an insane flip dive. The fans broke into a loud “Buddy” chant.
Murphy missed a Meteora and Ali hit a superkick. He hit a reverse rana for a close near fall.
Murphy used a powerbomb for a two count and hit a knee. The fans broke into a “This is Awesome” chant. They traded shots in the middle of the ring. Ali hit a spinning heel kick and sent Murphy to the apron. Ali then hit a tilt a whirl draping DDT and hit the 450 for the win in an excellent finish.
After the match, Murphy shook Ali’s hand and raised his arm. Ali advances in the King of the Ring and takes on Elias in the quarterfinals.
In the back, Ember Moon approached Bayley. Moon promised to defeat Bayley in the ring someday. Moon said Flair’s wrong and Bayley is the face of the division. Moon said the better woman won at SummerSlam.
Lacey Evans approached them and promised to prove she’s the face of the division and will show it in their match later.
They recapped Sami Zayn and Intercontinental Champion Shinsuke Nakamura attacking The Miz.
The Miz made his way to the ring. He noted Zayn is Nakamura’s spokesperson because Zayn can’t do it on his own. Zayn is a hanger-on and is just using Nakamura. Nakamura doesn’t need Zayn. Miz noted he made the Intercontinental title. He then challenged Nakamura to a match for Clash of Champions
Sami Zayn interrupted and noted he liberated Nakamura. Nakamura is feeling stronger and better in years. Zayn noted Nakamura is an artist, poetic and King of Strong Style. He called Miz the King of Soft Style. Zayn threatened to beat some respect into Miz. Miz challenged him to come in the ring.
Zayn noted he doesn’t do things on his terms. Miz came out to attack Zayn, but Nakamura attacked Miz from behind. Nakamura then gave Miz the Kinshasa against the LED board. Nakamura then gave Miz a second Kinshasa in the ring.
They announced Big E vs. Randy Orton for later tonight.
Kevin Owens entered Shane McMahon’s office and found Elias. Owens is looking for McMahon, but he’s not there. Owens thanked Elias and left.
SmackDown Woman’s Champion Bayley defeated Lacey Evans
Bayley had the early advantage, but Evans took over with a slam. Bayley regained control with a knee and rocked Evans with a clothesline on the floor.
Charlotte Flair made her way down to the ring. Back from the break, Evans slowed the pace down with a chin lock. Bayley used a crossbody, but Evans took back over. Bayley tied Evans up in the ropes and rocked her with a dropkick. Evans regained control.
Bayley caught Evans leg in the ropes and hit a big clothesline to take over. Bayley attempted the Bayley-to-Belly, but Evans attacked the arm. Evans hit the moonsault for a near fall.
They traded pinfall attempts. Bayley caught Evans with a knee and Bayley-to-Belly, but Evans grabbed the bottom rope.
Evans kicked the injured left arm and hit a neck breaker. Bayley regained control and hit a Bayley-to-Belly. She followed up with an elbow off the top for the win.
Kayla Braxton spoke with Daniel Bryan and Rowan in the back. Bryan noted he proved Rowan’s innocence last week. Bryan promised not to leave until they receive an apology from Roman Reigns.
Randy Orton defeated Big E
Big E and Orton brawled on the floor around ringside. Big E tossed Orton over the announce table. Orton used a thumb to the eye, but Big E fought back. Orton sent Big E shoulder first into the ring post to take over.
Big E fought back with a series of clotheslines. Orton regained control when Big E missed the splash on the apron. He then gave Big E a back suplex on the announce table.
Back from the break, Big E gave Orton a back suplex on the announce table. He hit Orton with a belly-to-belly suplex and went for the splash, but The Revival caused the distraction. Big E went for the Big Ending, but the Revival interfered again. Orton then hit the RKO for the win.
After the match, Orton and The Revival gave Big E an assisted RKO.
In the back, Sara Schreiber interviewed Chad Gable. Gable noted Shelton Benjamin should know better not to underestimate him.
Benjamin approached and made a bunch of short jokes and left.
They recapped R-Truth defeating Elias for the 24/7 Championship at Fox Founders Day. Truth then appeared on the Fox College Football Kickoff Show. One of the hosts, Rob Stone, defeated Truth to win the title. Then Elias rolled up Stone to regain the title.
In the ring, Elias sat in the King of the Ring throne wearing the crown. Elias talked about winning the tournament and talked about how good he looks in the crown.
Kevin Owens approached and attacked Elias. They fought in the ring and Owens gave Elias the stunner. Owens didn’t attempt the pin to win the 24/7 title and just walked off.
Truth entered the ring and tried to pin Elias, but Drake Maverick pulled Truth out. Maverick then pinned Elias to win the 24/7 Championship.
Chad Gable defeated Shelton Benjamin in a First Round King of the Ring match
On commentary, Corey Graves made short jokes throughout the match.
Benjamin had the early advantage and scored a near fall. Gable fought back and caught Benjamin with a high angle German suplex. Benjamin fought back with a flying clothesline. He applied the Ankle lock, but Gable rolled through.
Gable leaped off the apron, but Benjamin caught him and tossed him into the barricade. Gable attempted a moonsault, but Benjamin moved, and Gable landed on his feet.
Benjamin caught Gable with knee and attempted a powerbomb.
Gable reversed and rolled up Benjamin to advance. Gable takes on Andrade in the quarterfinals.
Roman Reigns made his way down to the ring to address Daniel Bryan and Rowan. Before Reigns could speak, Daniel Bryan interrupted on the big screen and told Reigns to say I’m sorry.
Reigns asked the fans if he should apologize. Reigns then showed footage of his attack and found footage of Rowan. Bryan was furious. He slapped Rowan in the face and grabbed a mic. He promised he didn’t know anything and that he hates liars. He made his way down to the ring.
Bryan called Rowan a liar and said somebody told him to do this. He said it wasn’t him, but Reigns speared Bryan anyway.
Chad Gable is returning to 205 Live on tonight’s episode.
WWE has announced Jack Gallagher vs. Gable for tonight’s 205 Live. It’s a rematch of Gable’s 205 Live debut from June 11, where Gable won by countout after Gallagher tried to get back into the ring but wasn’t able to.
WWE.com is promoting Gable as “SmackDown LIVE’s Chad Gable.”
Akira Tozawa vs. Samir Singh has also been announced for tonight’s 205 Live, Mike Kanellis will be in action after losing to Zack Ryder in seconds on Raw, and WWE will follow up on Drew Gulak retaining the Cruiserweight Championship against Tony Nese on the Extreme Rules pre-show.
SmackDown and 205 Live are taking place at the DCU Center in Worcester, Massachusetts tonight. Shane McMahon hosting a town hall meeting, Peyton Royce & Billie Kay defending the Women’s Tag Team titles against Asuka & Kairi Sane, an announcement from Daniel Bryan, and Ember Moon and a partner vs. Mandy Rose & Sonya Deville are set for SmackDown.
Chad Gable appears to be the newest member of the cruiserweight division.
Gable made his 205 Live debut on this week’s episode, facing Jack Gallagher in the opening match. Gable ended up winning by countout. He hit a release German suplex on the floor, and Gallagher tried to get back into the ring near the end of the count but wasn’t able to make it in time.
Ahead of tonight, WWE hyped that Drake Maverick would be bringing a “special surprise” to 205 Live on this week’s episode.
Gable, who has a bit of a different look with a new haircut, moved from Raw to SmackDown in April’s Superstar Shake-up. He’s made limited appearances on television since then, though he was on tonight’s SmackDown. After Apollo Crews and Zelina Vega went back and forth verbally in a backstage segment, it was shown that Gable was there and writing on a notebook.
While Gable was on Raw, he held the Raw Tag Team titles with Bobby Roode from December to February.
Raw Tag Team Champions The Revival will defend their titles against Ricochet & Aleister Black and Bobby Roode & Chad Gable at Sunday’s pay-per-view. Ricochet & Black challenged for The Revival’s titles on Raw last night, with Roode & Gable attacking The Revival and causing the match to end in a disqualification.
Ricochet & Black and Roode & Gable went face-to-face and argued after the DQ, and Ricochet & Black stood tall after a brief brawl.
Ricochet & Black vs. Cesaro & Sheamus has also been announced for tonight’s SmackDown.
Fastlane is taking place at the Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland, Ohio on Sunday. Here’s the updated card:
WWE Champion Daniel Bryan defending against Kevin Owens
Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair (if Lynch wins, she’ll be added to the Raw Women’s Championship match at WrestleMania)
The Shield (Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose) vs. Baron Corbin, Drew McIntyre & Bobby Lashley
SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos defending against Shane McMahon & The Miz
WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks & Bayley defending against Nia Jax & Tamina
SmackDown Women’s Champion Asuka defending against Mandy Rose
Raw Tag Team Champions The Revival defending against Ricochet & Aleister Black and Bobby Roode & Chad Gable in a triple threat match
