Universal Champion Seth Rollins and Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch will kick off tonight’s show. WWE Champion Kofi Kingston is also set to face Sami Zayn in a non-title match.
Rollins and Lynch stood tall at the end of Stomping Grounds. Rollins retained the Universal title against Baron Corbin in the main event, with Lynch taking out special guest referee Lacey Evans after Evans slapped and low blowed Rollins. Referee John Cone then counted the pin for Rollins after he hit a Curb Stomp on Corbin.
Lynch successfully defended her Raw Women’s Championship against Evans in the opener of the Stomping Grounds main card.
Kingston retained the WWE Championship against Dolph Ziggler in their steel cage match at the pay-per-view, but Big E & Xavier Woods lost to Kevin Owens & Zayn. Owens pinned Woods to win that match.
Angel of the Winds Arena in Everett, Washington is hosting tonight’s Raw. New United States Champion Ricochet will take on AJ Styles in a non-title match, and Shane McMahon & Drew McIntyre will team against Roman Reigns in a two-on-one handicap match.
The build to Stomping Grounds continues as SmackDown takes place from the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California tonight.
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston defeated Dolph Ziggler at Super ShowDown, and they’ll meet in a rematch at Stomping Grounds in a steel cage on June 23. Before that takes place, The New Day takes on Ziggler, Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn in a six-man tag team match tonight. Big E returns from his knee injury and competes for the first time since April.
Last night on Raw, Shane McMahon celebrated defeating Roman Reigns in Saudi Arabia. Reigns is scheduled to appear tonight to address McMahon and his loss.
Alexa Bliss and Lacey Evans defeated Raw Woman’s Champion Becky Lynch and SmackDown Woman’s Champion Bayley in a tag team match on Raw. Bayley hopes to bounce back after being pinned by Evans last night.
Plus, 24/7 Champion R-Truth appears on the show as well.
Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.
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SmackDown started with The Miz forced to host an edition of Miz TV.. Miz said he’s being forced to follow the script tonight. He read off a card and noted he was forced to read these words.
Miz then introduced Drew McIntyre and purposely screwed up Shane McMahon’s intro. First, he called him the “Breast in the World” and then the “Pest In the World.”
McMahon, McIntyre, and Elias made their way to the ring. They aired a recap of McMahon defeating Roman Reigns at Super ShowDown. McMahon forced ring announcer Greg Hamilton to give him a proper intro.
McMahon pointed out that all great talk shows have a musical guest. Elias then played the guitar. At first, the crowd cheered, but then they chanted, “You Suck.” McMahon reminded the fans that he beat Reigns in the middle of the ring.
Miz noted that all of McMahon’s accomplishments are tainted. He pointed out all the times McMahon got destroyed. They aired Reigns interview from Super Showdown. Reigns said McMahon didn’t earn anything and McIntyre gave McMahon the win. He promised to defeat McIntyre.
McIntyre cut a good promo and promised to defeat Reigns at Stomping Grounds. Miz admitted McIntyre could match Reigns, but it’s too bad he’s McMahon’s lackey. Miz pointed out that McMahon used him to win the tag team belts. He said it’s a matter of time before he turns on McIntyre.
Miz said there’s nothing special about McMahon. McMahon insulted Miz’s family. Miz and McIntyre went face-to-face.
McMahon offered to face Miz in a rematch tonight. First, Miz has to defeat Elias and then has to defeat McIntyre. If he’s successful Miz takes on McMahon.
The Miz defeated Elias (w/Shane McMahon)
Elias was firmly in control and had the early advantage. Miz made a brief comeback, but Elias rocked Miz with a knee for a near fall. Elias attempted Drift Away, but Miz fought out. Elias hit a powerbomb for a close two count. He missed an elbow off the top and Miz hit the Skull Crushing Finale for the win.
Drew McIntyre (w/Shane McMahon) defeated The Miz
Back from break, McIntyre was firmly in control, but Miz fought back. McIntyre rolled to the floor and Miz hit a sliding dropkick. Miz hit a DDT for a near fall. He set up for the Skull Crushing Finale, but McMahon distracted Miz. McIntyre rocked Miz with the Glasgow Kiss and hit the Claymore Kick for the win.
After the match, Miz was still down, and McMahon got on the mic. He decided to give Miz his rematch despite not beating McIntyre.
Shane McMahon defeated The Miz
McMahon beat down Miz, but he fought back. Miz went for the Skull Crushing Finale, but McMahon went to the ropes. McMahon then applied the triangle on Miz for the win.
In the back, Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville spoke with Ember Moon. Moon said she saw what they did to Carmella last week. Deville promised to do that to Moon, but Rose calmed her down. Rose told her to focus on her match with Carmella later. Rose and Deville left. Moon snapped and threw a trashcan.
The commentators congratulated John Cena for landing a role in Fast and the Furious 9.
SmackDown tag team champions Daniel Bryan & Rowan came down to the ring. Bryan announced that the planet’s tag team champions take on the YOLO County tag team champions AJ Kirsh and Dave Dutra in a unification match. The Yolo belts are made of cardboard. The fans chanted “Yolo.”
Heavy Machinery made their way to the ring and promised to win the tag team titles. Bryan said they hadn’t earned anything. He challenged them to take on the Yolo Country Tag Team champions.
Heavy Machinery defeated YOLO Country Tag Team Champions AJ Kirsh & Dave Dutra
Heavy Machinery dominated the match. Otis hit the Caterpillar. Tucker tossed one of the guys in the air, and Otis caught him. They hit the Compacter for the win.
After the match, Rowan wanted to jump in the ring, but Bryan convinced him not to.
24/7 Champion R-Truth and Carmella walked backstage. Truth talked about all of his title defenses and how it’s draining him. He complained about being the “7/11” champion.
They heard a sound, so Truth jumped into a blue box. Carmella locked the lid but couldn’t open it. A backstage worker told Carmella her match is next. She told Truth to wait there, and she’ll be right back. Truth screamed to let him out.
Jinder Mahal approached and pretended to be Carmella. He ran off to find a crowbar.
Sonya Deville (w/Mandy Rose) defeated Carmella
Deville had the early advantage. She slowed the pace down and locked on a chin lock. Deville hit a running knee on Carmella for a near fall. Deville rolled up Carmella, but she reversed into a submission. Rose put Deville’s leg on the bottom rope to break up the hold. Carmella chased Rose, but Deville rolled her up for two count.
Carmella sent Deville to the floor and hit suicide dive. Carmella tried to re-enter the ring, but Rose stopped her. Carmella took out Rose with a superkick on the floor. As Carmella entered the ring, Deville rocked Carmella with a knee for the win.
Nikki Cross approached Alexa Bliss in the back. Bliss told Cross that there was a lot of hurtful things said about her on social media. Bayley even liked one of the tweets. Bliss got Cross a match with Bayley. She said to see all the bullies that hurt her on social media when she faces Bayley.
The New Day made their way down to the ring. WWE Champion Kofi Kingston pointed out this is the actual return of Big E. Xavier Woods talked about their upcoming match against Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, and Dolph Ziggler. They pointed out that Kingston defeated all three in singles matches.
Kingston promised to defeat Ziggler in the steel cage at Stomping Grounds. He said Ziggler has nowhere to run. Kingston vowed to retain the title.
Ziggler interrupted and said there’s only one reason Kingston is still champion. He showed footage from Super Showdown of Woods helping Kingston retain the title. Ziggler promised to defeat Kingston and win the title. Kingston pointed out that Ziggler didn’t show when he kicked Woods.
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn made their way out. Zayn said if it were the other way around the fans would be enraged. He called the fans hypocrites. Big E said they enjoyed watching Seth Rollins beat him with a chair. Ziggler called Kingston the biggest hypocrite. Big E said Kingston’s title run is about proving that he’s the best at what he does.
Kingston promised to kick ass and take names, and he’s starting with Ziggler. Kingston promised to leave Stomping Grounds the WWE Champion.
Kayla Braxton interviewed Bayley backstage. She asked Bayley about Alexa Bliss’ allegations of liking offensive tweets about Nikki Cross. Bayley said to consider the source.
Aleister Black spoke backstage. He said there are so much conflict but no resolutions. He offers both. It’s so simple. You pick a fight with him, and he fights you. He said they wouldn’t fight over trivial things like the love of a man or woman. He asked someone to open the door. He screamed that the door is wide open and to pick up a fight with him.
Bayley sent Cross to the floor and hit a sliding dropkick under the turnbuckle. Bayley attempted the dropkick a second time, but Cross trapped her in the ring curtain and took over.
Back from break, Bayley made a comeback and hit a rolling splash for a near fall. Bliss jumped on the apron and distracted Bayley. Cross used an inside cradle for a two count. Bayley fought back and hit the elbow off the top for the win.
Backstage, Jinder Mahal had crowbar and referee. He couldn’t find the box with Truth. Someone told him the boxes are loading on the truck. Mahal found some more boxes, but they’re going to L.A. Mahal ran to L.A. to find Truth.
Truth is still in one of the boxes. Carmella searched for him in the back but couldn’t find him.
Bray hosted another edition of The Firefly Fun House. Wyatt gave Ramblin Rabbit the floor to speak. Rabbit said it was time to reveal the truth about what’s going on in the fun house. Wyatt attacked Ramblin Rabbit with a mallet.
Kayla Braxton interviewed Apollo Crews. Last week, Andrade attacked Crews before their match. Crews wants to gain some revenge. Zelina Vega interrupted and warned Crews not to anger Andrade. She left, and Chad Gable showed up taking notes.
The New Day defeated Dolph Ziggler, Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens
The heels had the early advantage by isolating Xavier Woods. Woods fought back and The New Day hit the Unicorn Stampede. Kingston attempted a splash, but Zayn moved, and Kingston crashed to the floor. Ziggler nailed Kingston with a forearm on the floor.
Ziggler locked on a chin lock and taunted New Day. He caught Kingston with a dropkick, which sent Kingston to the floor. Owens then hit a senton on Kingston. The heels isolated Kingston on their side of the ring.
Woods got the hot tag and ran wild. After a quick exchange, Woods sent Zayn to the floor with a forearm. He followed up with a sliding dropkick taking out Zayn and Ziggler. Woods climbed to the top, but Owens distracted the referee. Ziggler tripped up Woods. The heels isolated Woods again in their corner.
Owens hit a power slam and second turnbuckle moonsault for a near fall. Woods hit a DDT, and Big E got the hot tag. Big E hit three huge belly-to-belly suplexes and a big splash on Ziggler. New Day tried to set up Ziggler, but he fought out.
Zayn made the blind tag. Ziggler went to superkick Kingston but hit Zayn instead. Kingston fought back and hit the Trouble in Paradise on Ziggler. The finish came when Kingston hit Trouble in Paradise on Zayn for the win.
Three title matches have been added to the card for Stomping Grounds.
Universal Champion Seth Rollins will defend his title against Baron Corbin, Kofi Kingston will defend the WWE Championship against Dolph Ziggler in a steel cage match, and Becky Lynch will defend the Raw Women’s Championship against Lacey Evans. All three of those matches were announced during today’s Super ShowDown broadcast.
Rollins vs. Corbin and Kingston vs. Ziggler are both rematches from Super ShowDown.
Rollins retained against Corbin at Super ShowDown after Corbin argued with the referee. Corbin tried to bring a steel chair into the ring, Corbin and referee John Cone argued, and Rollins rolled up Corbin to get the win.
Corbin gave Rollins the End of Days after the match. Brock Lesnar came out with a steel chair and his Money in the Bank briefcase, but he never cashed in. Rollins low blowed Lesnar, repeatedly hit him with chair shots, and gave him a curb stomp on the MITB briefcase.
The steel cage stipulation for Kingston vs. Ziggler at Stomping Grounds was set up by their match today. After Ziggler superkicked Xavier Woods on the outside, Woods kicked Ziggler when the referee wasn’t looking. Kingston then hit Trouble in Paradise on Ziggler to win.
Ziggler did a post-match interview backstage, calling Kingston a coward and demanding the steel cage match.
Lynch and Evans’ storyline has continued since Lynch defeated Evans at Money in the Bank last month. On this week’s Raw, Lynch caused Evans vs. Charlotte Flair to end in a disqualification.
Stomping Grounds is taking place at the Tacoma Dome in Tacoma, Washington on June 23. Bayley will defend the SmackDown Women’s Championship against Alexa Bliss at the pay-per-view, and Roman Reigns will face Drew McIntyre.
A tag team match has been added to tonight’s Super ShowDown go-home edition of SmackDown.
WWE announced this afternoon that Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods will face Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn on tonight’s SmackDown. Kingston will defend his WWE Championship against Dolph Ziggler at Super ShowDown this Friday.
On last week’s SmackDown, Kingston defeated Owens in a singles match.
Kingston traveled to Ghana last week to visit his home country for the first time in 26 years. He was in Ghana from Thursday to Sunday and was accompanied by a WWE film crew.
Goldberg will appear on SmackDown tonight and respond to The Undertaker ahead of their match in Saudi Arabia on Friday. On last night’s Raw, Undertaker cut a promo where he said that Goldberg is next. Undertaker said he doesn’t want to face the family man version of Goldberg, he wants the unstoppable, mythical icon Goldberg. He said that if Goldberg brings anything less, their first match will be Goldberg’s last.
Tonight’s SmackDown is taking place at the Sames Auto Arena in Laredo, Texas. WWE has announced that SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley will be Alexa Bliss’ guest on A Moment of Bliss, and Lars Sullivan will give an “exclusive interview.”
Sullivan vs. The Lucha House Party (Kalisto, Gran Metalik & Lince Dorado) in a three-on-one handicap match is set for Super ShowDown.
The build to Super ShowDown continues as SmackDown takes place from the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma tonight.
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston takes on Kevin Owens in a non-title match. Also, Owens hosts the KO Show with Dolph Ziggler as his special guest. Kingston will defend his title against Ziggler at Super ShowDown on Friday, June 7.
Roman Reigns is set to take on Shane McMahon in Saudi Arabia. Last week, Raw’s Drew McIntyre saved McMahon and attacked Reigns. Last night, McIntyre and McMahon beat down Reigns’ cousin Lance Anoa’i. WWE.com is teasing that Reigns is out for revenge.
SmackDown Woman’s Champion Bayley takes on Raw’s Lacey Evans in a non-title match tonight due to the Wild Card rule. Plus, R-Truth is still 24/7 Champion coming out of last night’s Raw and may end up defending the title on tonight’s show.
Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.
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They recapped Dolph Ziggler’s return last week and his brutal attack on WWE Champion Kofi Kingston. Kingston got off the stretcher and walked to the back.
They recapped Kevin Owens joining New Day and then turning on them.
Kevin Owens came out for his match against Kofi Kingston. He noted he planned on opening up with The KO Show. The people in Tulsa don’t deserve it. He looks forward to defeating Kingston right now. Owens claimed that he didn’t attack Big E last week.
He said he’s a good person and would never doing something like that. He pointed out that Big E sweats profusely, so he probably slipped. Owens said he’d take the blame for Xavier Woods being in pain and ending Kingston’s fairy tale story. Owens promised to soften Kingston up for Dolph Ziggler at Super Showdown. Tom Philips wondered if they could start the match already.
Kingston interrupted and made his way to the ring. He came out selling his knee injury and throwing pancakes. Kingston said he knows Owens attacked Big E. Kingston said Owens is not a good person. Kingston promised to get revenge for Big E and Woods despite his knee injury.
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston defeated Kevin Owens in a non-title match
Kingston had the early advantage, but Owens took over before the commercial break. Owens was firmly in control and hit a senton on the floor. He slowed the pace down with a chin lock. Kingston fought back, but Owens cut him off with a clothesline. Kingston sent Owens to the floor and followed up with a dive. Owens attempted a stunner, but Kingston countered with the SOS for a near fall.
Kingston leaped up to the top turnbuckle, but Owens shoved him to the floor. Kingston went over the ring post and crashed hard on the floor. Back from break, Owens had Kingston in the chin lock again. He gave Kingston a slingshot over the top rope. Kingston held on and tried to skin the cat. Owens rocked him with a superkick and hit a frog splash off the apron.
Owens tried to win by count out, but Kingston beat the ten count. Owens hit a frog splash in the ring for a near fall. Owens went back up, but Kingston cut him off. They fought on the top turnbuckle.
Owens rocked Kingston with a head butt, and he fell off. Owens hit a Swanton Bomb for a very close two count. Owens attempted the pop-up powerbomb, but Kingston hit the Trouble In Paradise for the win.
In the back, Shane McMahon met with Drew McIntyre and Elias in his office. A graphic aired promoting Shane McMahon Appreciation Night later.
24/7 Champion R-Truth and Carmella ran backstage. Truth complained about having to defend the title at all times. They hid in a room. Drake Maverick walked by putting up R-Truth Wanted posters. They ran off without him seeing.
Kayla Braxton interviewed SmackDown tag team champions Daniel Bryan & Rowan in the ring. She revealed that they requested this time to re-issue their mission statement.
Bryan called the SmackDown tag team division a joke. Bryan said Rowan has a joke. Rowan then made a knock-knock joke. Bryan and Rowan’s reaction to the punch line was great. Bryan said the people of Oklahoma are the worst. They’re the leaders in fracking and oil drilling, which the fans cheered. Bryan said the mission statement is to save the planet and the SmackDown tag team division.
Braxton pointed out that they might think the division is a joke, but there are tag teams that want a shot at them. Heavy Machinery’s music hit and they walked to the ring. Tucker said they respect Bryan and Rowan, but it’s time to get down to business. They want a shot at the tag team titles right now. Bryan accepted the challenge but not in Oklahoma.
Backstage, Sonya Deville and Mandy Rose admired her appearance on the cover of Muscle and Fitness Hers. Deville and Rose handed out magazines to backstage workers, The IIconics and Ember Moon. Moon was reading Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde. Deville and Rose spoiled the ending of the book.
Mandy Rose (w/Sonya Deville) defeated Carmella
They showed Rose’s Muscle and Fitness Hers cover on the big screen, and the commentators discussed the article. Deville had a stack of magazines at ringside.
Rose took over and slowed the pace down with a chin lock. Rose rocked Carmella with a knee for a close near fall. Carmella fought back and hit the broncobuster for a two count. Deville jumped up on the apron and caused a distraction. Carmella attempted a superkick, but Rose ducked and rolled her up for the win.
In the back, Jinder Mahal jumped R-Truth and scored a near fall. Truth fought back and sent Mahal out the doors. Truth ran off and hid in a random photo booth. There was no explanation of why there was a photo booth backstage — a whole bunch of guys run by the booth. Truth then bumped into Drake Maverick and ran off.
Shane McMahon Appreciation Night
Shane McMahon, Drew McIntyre, and Elias made their way down to the ring. McMahon said he was hesitant when his good friend McIntyre suggested this appreciation night. McMahon said he doesn’t need a trophy or appreciation night.
McMahon said he’s a humble man that came back to run a family business. He’s all about putting smiles on the fans faces. He showed a video that he guarantees would send the fans home smiling. The video recapped McMahon’s career.
After the video, McMahon praised the production crew and Kevin Dunn. He told the fans not to boo Dunn. McMahon promised to beat Roman Reigns at Super Showdown and to beat respect into him.
Elias praised McMahon and began singing a song about McMahon and Oklahoma. Suddenly, 24/7 Champion R-Truth ran in the ring from the crowd with Drake Maverick right behind him.
24/7 Champion R-Truth defeated Drake Maverick to retain the title
Truth turned around and realized it was just Maverick. Truth attacked Maverick and pinned him. McMahon, McIntyre, and Elias just stood back and watched. The heels then jumped Truth and beat him down.
Elias defeated R-Truth to win the 24/7 Championship
McIntyre hit the Claymore Kick, and Elias pinned Truth to win the 24/7 Championship.
McMahon was still mad that Truth interrupted his appreciation night. He then announced McIntyre & Elias against Truth & Roman Reigns for later tonight. McMahon suspended the 24/7 rules so Elias can focus. He doesn’t have to worry about anyone attacking him.
Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviewed Lacey Evans and Charlotte Flair. Evans and Flair were having tea. They complained about Raw Woman’s Champion Becky Lynch and SmackDown Woman’s Champion Bayley. Evans promised to defeat Bayley.
Charlotte Flair joined in on commentary for the match. Evans had the early advantage. She tried to roll up Bayley, but Bayley rolled through and caught her with a knee.
Back from break, Evans was firmly in control. Evans stomped on Bayley, but she fought back. Bayley sent Evans to the floor and hit the sliding dropkick. They ended up near the announcers. Flair got in Bayley’s face. Bayley sent Evans back in the ring and went after Flair.
Flair distracted the referee, but Evans rolled up Bayley and had the match one. Bayley countered and rolled up Evans for the win.
After the match, Evans jumped Flair from behind. Flair fought back and rocked Evans with a boot to the face.
In the back, Andrade and Zelina Vega discussed his upcoming match with Intercontinental champion Finn Bálor.
Bray Wyatt hosted another edition of The Firefly Funhouse. He’s back to being normal. He said sometimes he finds it hard to be brave. Abbey The Witch called him a sicko, and it seemed to bother him. Wyatt called Abbey a bully. He then did the limbo but did his creepy Exorcist walk.
Roman Reigns & R-Truth defeated Drew McIntyre & Elias (w/Shane McMahon)
Truth came down to the ring slowly as he was selling his injuries from earlier. McIntyre and Elias jumped Truth from behind. Reigns made the save and fought off the heels.
Reigns was in control until McMahon caused a distraction. The heels isolated Reigns on their side of the ring. Reigns fought back and hit a Samoan Drop. Truth tagged in, and the heels quickly took over. McIntyre gave Truth a tilt-a-whirl slam on the apron.
Back from break, Truth fought back, but Elias cut him off with a clothesline. The heels tried a double team move on Truth, but he fought back. Reigns got the hot tag and ran wild. He rocked Elias with clotheslines in the corner. Reigns hit the Superman Punch on McIntyre and the Drive-By on Elias.
McMahon attacked Reigns from behind on the floor. Reigns grabbed McMahon. McIntyre tried to hit the Claymore kick, but Reigns moved, and McIntyre crashed on the announce table. In the ring, Reigns hit the spear on Elias for the win.
McMahon and McIntyre ran up the ramp.
R-Truth defeated 24/7 Champion Elias to win the title
Reigns hit a second spear on Elias. The commentators noted the 24/7 rules are back in effect because the tag team match is over. Truth then pinned Elias to win the 24/7 title.
WWE has made their first match announcement for this week’s episode of SmackDown.
On Raw tonight, it was announced that WWE Champion Kofi Kingston will face Kevin Owens in a non-title match on SmackDown. That’s a rematch from Money in the Bank, where Kingston defeated Owens to retain the WWE title.
Kingston appeared on tonight’s Raw and furthered the build to his title defense against Dolph Ziggler at Super ShowDown in Saudi Arabia on June 7. Ziggler attacked Kingston, then brawled with Xavier Woods when Woods tried to make the save. As Ziggler was attacking Woods with a steel chair, Kingston came to the ring with his own chair to fend Ziggler off.
Ziggler also cut a promo on Kingston. He said Kingston’s been wasting his time focusing on Brock Lesnar and the Money in the Bank briefcase when he should have been worried about Ziggler. Ziggler said he knows how good Kingston is, but it should have been him in Kingston’s position at WrestleMania.
The BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma is hosting this week’s SmackDown.
After it was set up on last night’s SmackDown, Kofi Kingston defending his WWE Championship against Dolph Ziggler has officially been announced for Super ShowDown.
WWE uploaded a post-SmackDown video where Kingston accepted Ziggler’s challenge for Saudi Arabia. Ziggler made a surprise return to WWE television last night and attacked Kingston, who was put on a stretcher at the end of the angle. When he got to the stage, Kingston got up and insisted on walking to the back on his own.
Ziggler cut a promo later in the show where he explained his actions. Ziggler talked about the opportunities Kingston has taken advantage of and said that it should have been him.
WWE is hyping that Brock Lesnar will appear on next Monday’s Raw and announce which champion he’s going to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase on. If that match happens at Super ShowDown, it appears that it will be Universal Champion Seth Rollins defending against Lesnar.
Super ShowDown is part of WWE’s 10-year deal with the Saudi General Sports Authority. It’s taking place at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah on Friday, June 7 and will air live on the WWE Network starting at 2 p.m. Eastern time.
Here’s the updated card for Super ShowDown:
Goldberg vs. The Undertaker
Triple H vs. Randy Orton
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston defending against Dolph Ziggler
Roman Reigns vs. Shane McMahon
Braun Strowman vs. Bobby Lashley
Intercontinental Champion Finn Balor (as his Demon character) defending against Andrade
Dolph Ziggler made a surprise return to SmackDown last night and set up a WWE Championship match for Super ShowDown.
After WWE Champion Kofi Kingston defeated Sami Zayn in a non-title match, Paul Heyman appeared and teased that Brock Lesnar was there and going to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase. Instead, Ziggler attacked Kingston, wrapped his head around a steel chair, and slammed it into the announce table.
Kingston was put on a stretcher, but the attack angle ended with him insisting on walking to the back on his own.
Ziggler later cut a promo where he explained his actions, saying he’s the one who should have been taking advantage of the opportunities Kingston has over the past few months. Ziggler said he’ll win the WWE Championship from Kingston at Super ShowDown and the fans will admire, respect, and love Ziggler.
Also on SmackDown, Roman Reigns took on Elias in the main event before being laid out with a Claymore Kick by Drew McIntyre, SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley & Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch teamed against Charlotte Flair & Lacey Evans, and R-Truth disguised himself in an attempt to remain 24/7 Champion.
SmackDown takes place from the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island tonight.
Big E returns from injury after being on the shelf for a month. WWE Champion Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods have a celebration planned for his return, which will kick off the episode.
Kingston will also face Sami Zayn in a non-title match tonight.
New SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley will give an exclusive interview and team with Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch against Charlotte Flair & Lacey Evans. Bayley won the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match and then cashed in on Charlotte later that night to win the SmackDown Women’s title. That was moments after Charlotte had defeated Lynch to win the title.
Last night on Raw, Mick Foley introduced the new 24/7 Championship. R-Truth won the title after pinning Robert Roode backstage. Truth is scheduled to appear tonight.
Plus, Roman Reigns vs. Elias and Mandy Rose vs. Carmella are set.
Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.
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In the back, Elias approached Shane McMahon in his office. Elias made excuses for losing to Roman Reigns at Money In The Bank. He feels he let McMahon and his family down.
Elias is looking forward to Super ShowDown and promised to be in McMahon’s corner. McMahon turned down the offer but said he’d be in Elias’ corner because he needs him.
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods walked out onto the ramp. They teased Big E’s return. Woods brought out a guy under a black sheet and took it off but it wasn’t Big E. They made fun of him and told him to leave.
Big E then made his actual return to a big pop. There was a huge Welcome Back, Big E banner on the apron. Big E said he missed The New Day and the fans. Woods mentioned Big E’s recent tweeting. Big E said he had to send a tweet to Becky Lynch’s mom. They talked about how attractive Lynch’s mother is. Kingston interrupted them and said he has to be serious now because he’s the champion. Kingston noted he beat Kevin Owens on Sunday to retain the title.
Owens and Sami Zayn’s interrupted. Zayn was furious that Big E was having a return celebration after being gone for six weeks. Zayn pointed out he was gone for months and got nothing like this. The New Day mocked him and gave him the same thing Owens got on Sunday, nothing. Owens walked away.
Zayn called the celebration disgusting. He said Owens lost because he was worried about Zayn. Kingston told Zayn not to let the pancake throwing and hip-swiveling confuse him. He promised to defeat Zayn. Kingston vs. Zayn is official for later tonight.
In the back, Carmella looked for R. Truth. Drake Maverick and Apollo Crews are also looking for him. Maverick was putting up R-Truth Wanted signs. She found Truth wearing a blonde wig. Carmella didn’t know why Truth came to SmackDown. He needs Carmella’s help to hold on to the title.
Ali defeated Andrade (w/Zelina Vega)
Andrade took over after rocking Ali with a huge clothesline for a near fall. Ali fought back and hit a reverse hurricanrana for a two count. Ali went up to the second turnbuckle but Vega jumped on the apron. She distracted Ali long enough for Andrade to recover. Ali went for a cross body but Andrade caught him with a dropkick.
Back from break, Ali caught Andrade with a tornado DDT. He followed up with a suicide dive and immediately hit a second dive. Ali injured his back in the process. As he tried to re-enter the ring, Andrade shoved him off the apron and Ali crashed into the barricade.
Andrade worked over Ali’s back and slammed him into the ring post. He then tossed him over the barricade into the timekeeper’s area. Ali barely beat the count of ten. Andrade hit the running double knees to the back of Ali’s head for a close near fall. Andrade slowly picked up Ali. Suddenly, Ali rolled up Andrade for the win.
In the back, Carmella disguised R-Truth with a hat, blonde wing, and glasses. She gave him a bra but he said he needs help. He always had trouble unhooking them.
They recapped Lars Sullivan’s recent attacks.
Mandy Rose (w/Sonya Deville) vs. Carmella (w/R-Truth) Ended Without A Winner
R-Truth came out in his disguise but was still wearing the 24/7 title. Carmella attacked Rose but she rolled to the floor. Carmella pulled Deville into the ring. Rose rolled her up for a near fall.
Suddenly, the B Team and a bunch of wrestlers ran down to beat R-Truth. Truth ran off with Carmella on his back through the crowd. The wrestlers and referee chased them. Truth running off with Carmella on his back was pretty funny.
In the back, Kayla Braxton interviewed the new SmackDown Woman’s champion, Bayley. She said she’s past the hugging and wants every woman in the locker room to bring her A game.
Backstage, R-Truth and Carmella ran into the women’s locker room. Moments later, Truth and Carmella ran out. Truth apologized for running into the women’s locker room. As they left, the group of wrestlers chased after Truth. Zayn watched on as they run after Truth with a look of disgust.
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston defeated Sami Zayn in a non-title match
In the back, Big E was on the ground in pain after being attacked by Kevin Owens. Woods and Big E told Kingston to take care of Zayn. During the match, Tom Phillips announced that Woods accompanied Big E to a local medical facility.
Kingston was furious as he made his way to the ring. Zayn had the early advantage and was firmly in control. Kingston fought back and hit a dropkick off the second turnbuckle.
Back from break, Zayn hit a huge superplex for a near fall. Kingston missed Trouble in Paradise. Zayn went for the Blue Thunder Bomb but Kingston escaped and hit the Trouble in Paradise for the win.
After the match, Paul Heyman walked out with the Money in the Bank briefcase. The commentators wondered if Brock Lesnar was there.
Suddenly, Dolph Ziggler made his return and jumped Kingston from behind. Ziggler beat down Kingston. He wrapped a chair around Kingston’s head and threw him into the announce table. Ziggler wrapped Kingston’s head in the chair again and jumped on it. Kingston didn’t move for several minutes.
The medical staff checked on Kingston and took him out on a stretcher. Kingston got off the stretcher and was determined to walk out. The fans gave him a huge reaction and “Kofi” chant.
Roman Reigns arrived at the arena. Suddenly, he could hear Elias playing. He looked up and saw him playing on top of the truck. He promised to defeat him later. Reigns shook his head and walked off.
Raw Woman’s Champion Becky Lynch & SmackDown Woman’s Champion Bayley defeated Charlotte Flair & Lacey Evans
Before the match, Kayla Braxton interviewed Becky Lynch. Lynch isn’t happy that she lost the belt but is happy Bayley has it. Lynch promised to come after Bayley when they’re done with Flair and Evans.
Bayley missed a knee in the corner and Flair rocked her with a boot to the back of the head. The heels isolated Bayley on their side of the ring. Lynch got the hot tag and connected with a missile dropkick. She followed up with a forearm off the second turnbuckle.
Flair fought back and hit a big boot. She rolled up Lynch for a two count. Lynch countered into the Dis-arm-her but Evans broke it up. Bayley got the tag. Flair went for the Figure Four but Bayley used an inside cradle for the win.
In the back, R-Truth and Carmella tried running out but Jinder Mahal attacked him. He rolled Truth up for a near fall. Truth fought back and ran off. The B Team jumped Truth but they argued over pinning him. Truth fought back. Truth and Carmella ran off. The B Team chased after him.
Dolph Ziggler walked out to explain his reason for viciously attacking Kofi Kingston. He said this goes back to when Kingston took Ali’s place at Elimination Chamber. Ziggler said it should have been him. After eleven years, Kingston became an overnight success and it should’ve been Ziggler.
Ziggler sat at home when Kingston defeated Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania. The fans respect Kingston and it should be him. Ziggler promised to defeat Kingston for the WWE Championship at Super ShowDown.
Roman Reigns defeated Elias (w/Shane McMahon)
McMahon introduced Elias as the greatest acquisition in SmackDown Live history. Reigns was firmly in control and rocked Elias with right hands. McMahon distracted Reigns and Elias took over. He sent Reigns into the ring post.
Back from break, Reigns connected with a flying clothesline. He followed up with a big boot. He set up for the Superman Punch but McMahon grabbed the leg. Elias then hit a flying knee in the corner. Reigns fought back with a big right hand.
Elias regained control and hit a powerbomb for a close near fall. They traded shots in the middle of the ring. Reigns hit the Superman Punch but McMahon put Elias’ leg on the bottom rope.
Reigns hit the Drive-by on McMahon. Elias took advantage and hit a big elbow for a very close near fall. Elias pulled off the top turnbuckle pad, which distracted the referee. McMahon put the guitar in the ring. Elias went to use it but Reigns hit the spear for the win.
McMahon attacked Reigns after the match. He teased hitting Reigns with the guitar but Reigns hit the Superman Punch. Reigns picked up the guitar and backed McMahon into the corner.
Suddenly, Drew McIntyre appeared and hit the Claymore Kick on Reigns to end SmackDown.
WWE Champion Kofi Kingston will take on Sami Zayn in a non-title match, Raw Women’s Champion Becky Lynch will team with new SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley in a tag match against Charlotte Flair & Lacey Evans, and Mandy Rose will face Carmella.
Kingston retained his title against Kevin Owens at Money in the Bank on Sunday.
The SmackDown Women’s Championship changed hands twice at Sunday’s pay-per-view, with Charlotte first defeating Lynch for the title. Bayley saved Lynch from Charlotte and Evans in a post-match angle, then cashed in the Money in the Bank briefcase she won earlier in the night and became SmackDown Women’s Champion by defeating Charlotte.
Rose and Carmella have been going back and forth on social media after their interactions in the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match.
Bayley giving an “exclusive interview,” The New Day holding a welcome back celebration for Big E, and Roman Reigns vs. Elias are also set for SmackDown.
SmackDown and 205 Live are taking place at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center in Providence, Rhode Island tonight. A fatal five-way main event has been announced for 205 Live. It will feature Ariya Daivari, Mike Kanellis, Oney Lorcan, Brian Kendrick, and Akira Tozawa.
Daivari unsuccessfully challenged for Tony Nese’s Cruiserweight Championship at Money in the Bank.
WWE has made two more announcements for Tuesday’s SmackDown tapings in London, England.
A fatal four-way match featuring SmackDown’s men’s Money in the Bank ladder match participants is set for the show. Finn Balor, Ali, Randy Orton, and Andrade will face off in the four-way match.
Braun Strowman, Ricochet, Drew McIntyre, and Baron Corbin are Raw’s wrestlers for the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match.
WWE is also teasing whether or not Kofi Kingston will accept Kevin Owens’ invitation to appear on the KO Show on Tuesday. The episode is the go-home show for Money in the Bank, and Kingston will defend his WWE Championship against Owens at the pay-per-view.
Monday’s Raw and Tuesday’s SmackDown are both being taped at the O2 Arena in London. Asuka & Kairi Sane vs. Mandy Rose & Sonya Deville has also been announced for SmackDown.
NXT UK wrestlers will be appearing on Tuesday’s 205 Live. Cruiserweight Champion Tony Nese will take on Ligero in a non-title match, and WWE has announced a fatal four-way match between Humberto Carrillo, Jack Gallagher, Mark Andrews, and James Drake.
We’re looking for reports from Raw tonight in Marseilles, France, Smackdown in Helsinki, Finland, Revolution Pro at York Hall in London (Minoru Suzuki & Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Aussie Open, David Starr vs. Phantasmo ladder match), Evolve in Livonia MI and NXT in Sebring, FL to [email protected].
Kassius Ohno & Harlem Bravado vs. AR Fox & Leon Ruff
JD Drake vs. Joe Gacy for WWN title
Austin Theory vs. Adam Cole non-title
NEW JAPAN WORLD PRO WRESTLING AT 8 P.M. EASTERN ON AXS TV
Kazuchika Okada & Tomohiro Ishii vs. Evil & Sanada
Dragon Lee vs. Taiji Ishimori for IWGP jr. title
CMLL FROM ARENA MEXICO AT 9:30 P.M. ON CMLL FACEBOOK AND YOU TUBE (after show)
Magia Blanca & Stigma vs. Espanto Jr. & El Hijo del Signo
Drone & Fuego & Guerrero Maya Jr. vs. Kawato San & Polvora & Vangellys
Kaho Kobayashi vs. Amapola
Atlantis & Atlantis Jr. & Soberano Jr. vs. El Hijo de Villano III & Villano IV & Rey Bucanero
Ultimo Guerrero & Gran Guerrero & Euforia vs. Mascara Ano 2000 & Sanson & Cuatrero
Dragon Lee & Volador Jr. & Mistico vs. Negro Casas & Cavernario & Mr. Niebla
Saturday has WWE Raw in Newcastle, UK, Smackdown in Stockholm, Sweden, ROH in Grand Rapids, MI, and NXT in St. Augustine, FL. We’re looking for reports on these shows to [email protected].
ROH WAR OF THE WORLDS SATURDAY NIGHT IN GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN AT 6 P.M. EASTERN ON HONOR CLUB
Coast 2 Coast vs. Alex Coughlin & Karl Fredericks
Cheeseburger vs. Clark Conners
Evil & Sanada vs. Beer City Bruiser & Brawler Milonas
Kelly Klein vs. Stacy Shadows for WOH title
PCO vs. Mask Haskins
Tracy Williams vs. Rush vs. Eli Isom vs. P.J. Black for ROH title shot
Jeff Cobb & Jay Lethal & Yuji Nagata & Hirooki Goto & Satoshi Kojima vs. Bully Ray & Shane Taylor & Mark & Jay Briscoe & Silas Young
Matt Taven & TK O’Ryan & Vinny Marseglia vs. Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa & Hikuleo
UFC 237 ON SATURDAY FROM RIO DE JANEIRO
ESPN+ at 6:15 p.m. Eastern
Vivane Araujo vs. Talita Bernardo
Said Nurmagomedov vs. Raoni Barcelos
Sergio Moraes vs. Warlley Alves
Priscila Cachoeira vs. Luana Carolina
ESPN AT 8 p.m. Eastern
B.J. Penn vs. Clay Guida
Bethe Correia vs. Irene Aldana
Thiago Moises vs. Kurt Holobaugh
Antonio Rogerio Nogueira vs. Ryan Spann
ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. Eastern
Francisco Trinaldo vs. Diego Ferreira
Laureano Staropoli vs. Thiago Alves
Jose Aldo vs. Alexander Volkanovski
Anderson Silva vs. Jared Cannonier
Rose Namajunas vs. Jessica Andrade for strawweight title
EVOLVE FROM SATURDAY NIGHT AT 7 P.M. FROM INDIANAPOLIS
Anthony Greene vs. Seven Pena
Leon Ruff vs. Stephen Wolf vs. Juntai
Shotzi Blackheart vs. Natalia Markova
Curt Stallion vs. Ace Perry
Adrian Jaoude vs. Harlem Bravado
Eddie Kingston & Joe Gacy vs. JD Drake & Anthony Henry for Evolve tag title
Austin Theory vs. Nate Webb for Evolve title
Kassius Ohno vs. Josh Briggs
Adam Cole vs. AR Fox
BELLATOR ON DAZN AT 9 P.M. EASTERN
Tywan Claxton vs. James Bennett
Jake Hager (Jack Swagger) vs. T.J. Jones
A.J. McKee vs. Pat Curran
Douglas Lima vs. Michael Venom Page in welterweight tournament semifinal
Michael Chandler vs. Patricio Pitbull Freire for lightweight title
Sunday has WWE Raw in Liverpool, UK, Smackdown in Oslo, Norway and ROH TV tapings in Chicago (Allysin Kay vs. Marti Belle for NWA women’s title, Evil & Sanada & Yuji Nagata & Satoshi Kojima, Colt Cabana vs. James Storm for NWA National title, Jeff Cobb vs. Rush vs. Jay Lethal vs. PCO, Tama Tonga & Tanga Loa vs. Mark & Jay Briscoe for ROH tag titles).
NEW JAPAN BEST OF THE SUPER JUNIORS DAY ONE IN SENDAI ON MONDAY AT 5:30 A.M. EASTERN ON NEW JAPAN WORLD
A brother vs. brother match will be one of the key pieces of All Elite Wrestling’s Double or Nothing card.
After weeks of teases, Dustin Rhodes was confirmed as his brother Cody’s opponent for Double or Nothing at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, May 25. Dustin issued a statement about his status with WWE after the announcement was made, revealing that he had requested his release from WWE and was granted it. Dustin also posted a video where he said goodbye to his Goldust character.
An update on AEW distribution, PPV, television and streaming, is the lead story in the new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Look at the full distribution around the world for Double or Nothing, as well as updating where things stand when it comes to television.
Look at pricing, preshow, who is carrying it, how strong ITV 4 is, how this compares with WWE’s distribution and probable viewership, where things stand with U.K. television, details on Casino Battle Royale plans, the main championship, updating the show and lots of new signings.
Go in-depth on not just the XFL television deal and finances, but the lessons of the deal and how the deal is a 180 from the UFC deal.
Also look at the changes in Raw and Smackdown this past week, why they were made, where NBC Universal and FOX stand, WWE star power, how the European tour affected this week’s television, how it affects touring, plus updates on the Money In The Bank show.
Also look at the 2019 Best of the Super Juniors tournament, including what matches to watch out for, the schedule, the positioning of Will Ospreay, and the schedule.
Look at the two New Japan Dontaku events, what the events say about both Japan and U.S. popularity, the story behind Okada vs. Sanada, plus match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.
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].
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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.
FRIDAY NEWS UPDATE
by Bryan Rose, Ethan Renner and Joseph Currier
WWE
The Bret Hart vs. Tom Magee match and documentary special is listed as airing on the WWE Network from 11 to 11:30 p.m. Eastern time on Monday night.
WWE put out a press release saying that Kofi Kingston will be visiting his home country of Ghana, West Africa from May 30 through June 2. It will include a courtesy call from the President of Ghana H.E Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. A WWE film crew will be there to document the trip for a future documentary.
Kingston wrote on Instagram: “Well it’s officially official. For the first time since 1993, I’m going back to my home country! Though it was 26 years ago, I still have so many vivid memories of my last visit to Ghana. I’m beyond excited to make many more in a few short weeks!”
The WWE Network will no longer be available on the following devices as of May 21: Amazon Fire Tablets, Apple TV 3rd Generation and earlier models, LG 2016 and earlier models, PlayStation 3, Samsung 2016 and earlier models, Samsung and Sony Blu-Ray Players, Sony non-Android TVs, Windows 10 Desktop, and Xbox 360.
WWE stock closed the week at $84.03 per share, up slightly from yesterday.
Nikki Cross says she needs to change in an interview after a loss on Main Event, saying it may be time to step out of the dark.
Paige talked to Comic Book about how she became the manager for the new tag team of Kairi Sane and Asuka. “I pitched to manage Ronda Rousey, kind of like the Paul Heyman-Brock Lesnar thing,” she said. “And then also be with Asuka, because Asuka had trouble speaking on the mic sometimes. As much as she’s an amazing athlete, an incredible wrestler, and I was like, ‘I’ll help her, give me the microphone, I’ll talk for her.’ And then Paul Heyman called me one day and said, ‘We have a great role for you. You can be the next me with these two women.’ I was like, ‘Wow, what a crazy tag team, they’re incredible…. Absolutely, I’ll take it!'”
Comic Book also talked to Becky Lynch about Money in the Bank and SmackDown Live.
Goldberg has started to train in preparation for his match next month in Saudi Arabia.
Pro Wrestling
Tickets are still available for the F4W/Wrestling Observer Live Q&A featuring Dave Meltzer and Bryan Alvarez that will take place the morning of Double or Nothing (May 25) in Las Vegas, Nevada. More information can be found here.
Willie Mack told Wrestling Inc that he wasn’t sure of his Lucha Underground status, saying “I’m not sure because I’m still a part of them. If they want me, they can call me. But I’m just trying to do other stuff and keep everything going and positive because I’m a chill dude and I’m just gonna sit this thing out and see what happens.”
A falls count anywhere match between Sami Callihan and Mance Warner is set for MLW’s TV tapings in Waukesha, Wisconsin on June 1. In storyline, the match between the two friends was made by Salina de la Renta.
Jerry Lawler and Baron Von Raschke will be at Crusherfest, which will take place on June 8 and 9. The event is centered around an unveiling of a statue of The Crusher in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Memorial services for Florida promoter Paul Spiegel will will be at 2:00 pm on this Saturday at Memorial Park 5750 49th. St. in St .Petersburg.
UFC/MMA
ESPN reported that the UFC is close to finalizing Tony Ferguson vs. Donald Cerrone for UFC 238, which will be held in Chicago on June 8. Cerrone had challenged Conor McGregor after winning at a UFC Fight Night event this past Saturday. As recently as Tuesday, when appearing on The Jim Rome Show, Dana White had said that a fight between the two made sense to put together.
Ariel Helwani tweeted about Cerrone’s decision to face Ferguson: “Credit to Cerrone on this one. They sent out feelers about the McGregor fight after the Iaquinta win, but there wasn’t much movement so they moved on again. Justin Gaethje was also discussed a potential return fight for Ferguson but didn’t materialize, obviously. The beauty in this for Cerrone is the fight is in 29 days. So if all goes well, it’s not like he took himself out of the running for McGregor. Wouldn’t be surprised if the winner of this fight ends up becoming the McGregor frontrunner when it’s all said and done, too.”
Bethe Correia weighed in at 141 for her UFC 237 bantamweight fight against Irene Aldana, and will forfeit 30 percent of her purse.
The scheduled UFC 237 Diego Ferreira vs. Francisco Trinaldo lightweight fight has been called off by the Brazilian MMA Athletic Commission. Ferreira fell ill with kidney stones and could not weigh in. Trinaldo had already successfully made weight before the fight was called off.
All other fighters for Saturday’s UFC 237 card made weight. The ceremonial weigh-ins for UFC 237 can be found here.
British heavyweight MMA fighter and former Glory kickboxer Chi Lewis-Perry had a verbal exchange with Jon Jones at a fitness expo in Birmingham, England. The two have had issues dating back to when Daniel Cormier brought Lewis-Perry in as a sparring partner before their scheduled 2016 fight, according to MMA Fighting. There is a video of the exchange here.
Frankie Edgar issued a challenge to UFC Featherweight Max Holloway on Instagram. The two have been scheduled to face off twice before, but injuries caused changes to opponents both times.
Bloody Elbow’s John Nash has an interesting tweet thread here, with some informed speculation on the finances of the UFC/ESPN PPV deal.
The Bellator 221 weigh-ins were held today. A prelim bantamweight fight between Askar Askar and Taylor Moore was called off when Askar missed weight by five pounds. A prelim bantamweight bout between Jose Leon and Christian Rodriguez was changed to a 140-pound catchweight fight after Rodriguez missed weight. Leon agreed to the catchweight, but Rodriguez will give up half of his purse.
Jake Hager does an interview with MMA Fighting here. He says he should be ready to fight for the Bellator Heavyweight Championship by next year.
The Professional Fighters League kicked off their 2019 season last night. Kayla Harrison beat Larissa Pacheco in the main event, 30-25, 30-27, 30-27. Lilian Garcia debuted as the cage announcer for the PFL. Full results from the show are here
Ed in San Antonio presents PODER~! at the FSW arena on Friday 5/24 – Showtime is at noon – Main event: Bryan Alvarez vs. Logan Stunt
Empire dinner on Friday 5/24 at 8:30 p.m. at Texas de Brazil – Price is $82 – All you can eat meat and salad, sodas, tea, and coffee, plus dessert included
Empire suite party on Friday 5/24 for those who were not able to get the Q&A package – Price is $25
The WWE Championship was again on the line in the main event of this week’s episode of SmackDown.
After retaining against Daniel Bryan on Raw, Kofi Kingston defended his title against AJ Styles and Sami Zayn on SmackDown. Styles and Zayn were appearing on SmackDown as part of the “Wild Card rule” that was introduced on Monday. The Usos appeared on last night’s show as well.
Kevin Owens attacked Xavier Woods and tried to distract Kingston, but Kingston retained after hitting Zayn with Trouble in Paradise.
New SmackDown Tag Team Champions were also crowned this week. After WWE hyped that Shane McMahon would be naming the new champions, there was a segment where The Usos interrupted Shane as he was going to give the titles to Daniel Bryan & Rowan. A title match was made, with Bryan & Rowan defeating The Usos to become SmackDown Tag Team Champions.
With a “Wild Card rule” being introduced, a handful of SmackDown wrestlers appeared on Raw last night.
The Wild Card rule was announced by Vince McMahon in the opening segment. It was said that three wrestlers from Raw and three from SmackDown would be able to make cross-brand appearances “on a given occasion.”
Roman Reigns, Daniel Bryan, and WWE Champion Kofi Kingston were the first three SmackDown wrestlers to appear. Two WrestleMania rematches were made for last night, with Kingston defending his title against Bryan and Reigns taking on Drew McIntyre.
SmackDown’s Elias and Lars Sullivan were also on last night’s Raw. It was explained that Elias was okay because he was with Shane McMahon, and Vince increased the Wild Card rule number to four when confronted by Sullivan.
The WWE Championship match for Money in the Bank and SmackDown’s participants for the men’s and women’s ladder matches were confirmed last night.
After Kevin Owens turned heel on The New Day, Kofi Kingston will defend his WWE Championship against Owens at Money in the Bank. Kingston issued the challenge to Owens last night. Xavier Woods tried to get revenge by attacking Owens, but Owens laid him out with a superkick.
In the main event segment, Owens hosted the KO Show and mocked New Day. Kingston came out to brawl with Owens. He got the better of it, but Owens then raked Kingston’s eyes and bailed. Kingston stood tall to close the show.
The lineups for both Money in the Bank ladder matches were finalized as WWE revealed SmackDown’s participants. Bayley, Mandy Rose, Ember Moon, and Carmella will be in the women’s ladder match, while Finn Balor, Ali, Andrade, and Randy Orton will be in the men’s match.
Alexa Bliss, Naomi, Natalya, and Dana Brooke are Raw’s women’s MITB participants. Braun Strowman, Ricochet, Drew McIntyre, and Baron Corbin are in the men’s match.
The Hardys also vacated the SmackDown Tag Team titles last night due to Jeff Hardy having a knee injury. In a post-show interview, Jeff said he’ll be out of action for six to nine months.
