Tag: Shinsuke Nakamura

WWE SmackDown live results: Money in the Bank go-home show

Posted on by Colin McGuire

On the eve of Money in the Bank, Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns returns to SmackDown for the first time since being superkicked by The Usos two weeks ago.

Reigns will team with Solo Sikoa on Saturday against Jimmy & Jey Uso in what’s being billed as the Bloodline Civil War.

Also slated for tonight are two title matches. Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens defend against Pretty Deadly, while Asuka defends her WWE Women’s Championship against Charlotte Flair.

Also on tonight’s show: Logan Paul appears on The Grayson Waller Effect, Bayley puts her Money in the Bank spot on the line against Shotzi, LA Knight, Santos Escobar & Butch collide in a triple threat match, and Ridge Holland faces Austin Theory. If Holland wins, he’ll be in contention for a shot at Theory’s United States title.

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

**********

– The show opened with a graphic remembering Droz, who died Friday. 

– Michael Cole welcomed everyone in to open the show. We then got a recap of the what happened with the Bloodline two weeks ago. Wade Barrett and Cole ran down the card for the evening. 

Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn defeated Pretty Deadly (Elton Prince & Kit Wilson) [11:07]

This was a very fun opener that was taken to a higher level thanks to the hot London crowd, which was both welcome and expected. It still feels like Zayn & Owens don’t have any legitimate contenders to take the tag straps off them, but we’ll see how the rest of the summer plays out. Owens selling his leg was interesting and I wonder if that means he’ll be selling it moving forward and it will put the team’s matches in doubt. For now, these four worked really well together and Pretty Deadly have come a long way in a short amount of time on WWE’s main roster.

Zayn and Wilson started the match with Zayn getting the best of things at first before Wilson worked a side head-lock. Zayn came right back with an arm-drag and took back control. Prince got in a cheap shot on Zayn, which gave Wilson control. Prince tagged in and took Zayn to the outside, where Prince slammed Zayn off the commentary table. The show then went to a commercial break. 

Back from break, Wilson covered Zayn for a two-count. Wilson worked a side head-lock on Zayn. Prince tagged in, but Zayn almost instantly got the hot tag to Owens, who came in and stomped Prince. The action spilled to the outside and Owens landed clotheslines on both members of Pretty Deadly. Back in the ring, Owens hit a cannonball on Prince. Owens went to the top and landed a Swanton and pinned Prince until Wilson broke it up. 

Owens went for a Stunner, but Prince pushed Owens away and Owens was selling a leg injury. Prince worked Owens’s leg and Wilson tagged in to land a Dirty Martini for a two-count. Prince tagged in and landed a double-team move for a two-count. Zayn broke up the pin and Owens suplexed Prince to get the hot tag to Zayn, who landed a Blue Thunder Bomb on Wilson for a two-count. Wilson was the recipient of an Exploder and a Helluva Kick and Zayn pinned Wilson for the win.

**********

– Adam Pearce was talking backstage until Sheamus interrupted him. Ridge Holland spoke up and Pearce told Holland he can face Austin Theory later tonight. If Holland wins, he’ll get a shot at the U.S. Title. Austin Theory’s music then hit and we went back to the ring. 

Austin Theory defeated Ridge Holland [2:56]

The story here was Holland had a bad throat and Theory’s dropkick hit Holland in the throat for a win. But … three minutes? Really? The finish felt like it came out of nowhere and it was even more bizarre considering how hot the crowd was for Holland and the Brutes. So the match was fine for what it was, but it didn’t last long enough to leave much of an impression.

The two locked up to begin the match. Holland had control early. Holland landed a long-stalling suplex for a one-count. Theory got control with a kick to Holland’s leg. Holland fired up and hit a series of suplexes on Theory. Eventually, Theory found his way onto the apron and that led to Theory hitting a roll-through dropkick for the win.

After the match, Theory attacked Holland until Sheamus ran out for the save. 

**********

– A Karrion Kross vignette aired with Kross calling AJ Styles out. Kross said he beat Styles in only three moves. Kross said next week will be checkmate for Styles. 

– A video recapping the Bloodline saga aired. 

**********

Bayley defeated Shotzi to keep her spot in the Money In The Bank match [3:31]

In a weird way, it was easy to think this could go either way because SKY was the one to accept the challenge for Bayley, but in hindsight, of course Bayley was going to keep her spot in the MITB match because my guess is we see the implosion of Damage CTRL Saturday afternoon. Still, Shotzi didn’t look like she might suffer a catastrophic injury here, so that’s a win all around. 

Shotzi had control early. Bayley rolled to the outside and Shotzi dove to the outside, taking out IYO SKY, who accompanied Bayley. Back in the ring, Bayley it a Bayley-to-Belly for a two-count. Shotzi hit a DDT as the crowd, two minutes into the match, was still doing the Bayley chant. Shotzi hit a step-up enziguri. Shotzi tweaked her knee while doing it and Bayley came back with a roll up and a two-count. Shotzi hit a reverse bulldog and went for a pin, but SKY put Bayley’s foot on the rope for the break. Bayley then landed the Rose Plant for the win.

**********

– Shotzi confronted Bayley backstage after a commercial break and Bayley, along with SKY, suplexed Shotzi onto a table before cutting Shotzi’s hair. 

The Grayson Waller Effect with Logan Paul

The crowd booed both guys to begin the segment. Paul said his dreams won’t end until the WWE Champion is “gold around my belt.” So, there’s that. Paul said he might not even ever cash in the briefcase if he wins it and almost instantly, LA Knight’s music hit. Knight received a massive pop had a microphone in his hand. Knight said Paul was given a lot while wasn’t given anything. Knight said Paul was standing in his ring. Paul was booed as soon as he started talking. Paul made fun of Knight for wrestling for 20 years in a lackluster career. Paul told the crowd they were drunk and to go home after they chanted for LA Knight. 

Santos Escobar’s music hit and Escobar came to the ring in an LWO shirt (London World Order). Escobar said they have to get one thing straight, there’s going to be two MITB winners in the LWO. Butch’s music hit and Butch ran to the ring and took out Paul. Paul and Butch fought over the commentary table as the show went to break. 

**********

Butch defeated LA Knight and Santos Escobar [3:34 of TV time]

This was fine enough, but I have no idea how long the actual match was because it started during the break. As such, this was a triple threat that had a lot of potential on paper, but it was clear this was only going to be used to set up the MITB match. That in mind, it worked. Knight is so gosh darn over that if he doesn’t go over at MITB, I think London burns. Probably not. But, really. At some point, the WWE decision-makers are going to have to take notice and it feels like the most obvious time is Saturday in London.

The match started during the commercial break, and when the show came back, Knight hit a DDT on Escobar as the crowd went nuts for him again. Butch landed a German Suplex on Escobar before Knight hit a wild back suplex on Butch for a two-count. Escobar landed a running knee on Knight. Eventually, Knight hit his leaping elbow for a two-count on Escobar. Knight went to the outside to jaw with Paul. Escobar took out Paul and hit Knight with a knee. Escobar went to the top, but ran into a bunch from Butch. Butch hit the Bitter End for the win.

After the match, Butch set up a ladder, but Knight cut Butch off. Then Paul cut Knight off. Then Butch cut Paul off. Butch then climbed up and grabbed the MITB briefcase to pose for the crowd. 

**********

– AJ Styles spoke backstage. Styles accepted Kross’s challenge from earlier in the show.

**********

Charlotte defeated Asuka via DQ [7:32]

Ehhh. I want more from these two. You had to know we wouldn’t get a clean finish, but the match itself wasn’t much to write home about. I’m a huge fan of Asuka’s work and while Charlotte seems to be hit or miss, she always seems to show up for Asuka. Throwing a nothing-happening match like this out there is at least a tiny bit disappointing. This must mean we’re working toward a triple threat at SummerSlam between Belair, Asuka and Charlotte for the WWE Women’s Championship. That’s fine. But on our way there, it’d be great if these one-on-one matches ceased. It’s a waste of talent. 

Bianca Belair was sitting in the front row with a ticket. The two opened by exchanging strikes. Charlotte tried to pin Asuka a few times, but Asuka was under the ropes. Charlotte hit Asuka in the face with a kick, but Asuka came back with a BackStabber before the show went to a commercial break. 

Back from break, Asuka went for the arm bar, but Charlotte got out of it. Asuka rolled up Charlotte for a two-count. Charlotte landed a spear, which was enough for a two-count. Asuka went to the outside and Charlotte climbed to the top rope. Charlotte went for the moonsault from the top and just barely nicked Asuka on the way down, but Asuka sold it. Charlotte hit some chops and tried a boot, but Asuka moved and Charlotte hit Belair, who was in the crowd. Belair regrouped and jumped the rail to attack Asuka and end the match. 

After the match, Belair attacked Charlotte and laid her out. Belair hit the KOD on Asuka, slamming her onto the commentary table, but the table didn’t break. Because of that, Belair did the same with Charlotte and the table still didn’t break. Belair stood tall to end the segment. 

**********

The Bloodline Segment

After stalling, Paul Heyman gave Roman Reigns a microphone. Reigns told London to acknowledge him. Reigns said it’s been a long time. Reigns said for two years, he’s allowed his cousins to say “We the ones.” Roman said the truth is they ain’t the ones and only Roman is the one. Roman reiterated he is the head of table. Roman said a family that “betrays you sucks.” Roman talked about giving the Usos a second chance, and he said he will give the Usos an infinite amount of chances. All the Usos have to do, he said, is come out and apologize and move on. 

On cue, the Usos’s music hit. Jimmy said they are past apologizing. Jimmy said that now it’s about consequences. Jey said once Roman loses, Roman will be the only one out. Jey said Roman won’t be the Tribal Chief anymore after he loses. Jey and Jimmy said they both don’t want to be Tribal Chief. The Usos said they got someone in mind and the crowd chanted Solo. Roman and Solo had a stare down. Roman told everyone to shut up and the Usos laughed. Jey climbed onto the apron. Roman jawed at Jey. Jey face-palmed Roman and Jimmy super-kicked Roman. The four brawled. Security ran down to break it up and Roman hit Jey with a Super Punch. Roman beat up security … but then Jey hit a splash over the top rope onto Roman and the group to close the show. 

Rapper Lil Uzi Vert releases ‘Nakamura’ song

Posted on by Joseph Currier

A nod to WWE star Shinsuke Nakamura is featured on the latest album by rapper Lil Uzi Vert.

Lil Uzi Vert’s highly anticipated album “Pink Tapes” was released on Friday and includes a song titled “Nakamura.” In the song, Lil Uzi Vert samples Nakamura’s “The Rising Sun” theme music and raps over it. The song can be heard below:

“The Rising Sun” debuted as Nakamura’s theme music when he signed with WWE in 2016.

At WrestleMania 39 earlier this year, Lil Uzi Vert performed his song “Just Wanna Rock” as part of The Usos’ entrance.

The release of “Pink Tapes” comes just one day before Nakamura competes in Money in the Bank. Nakamura will be part of the men’s ladder match at Saturday’s pay-per-view in London, England. Nakamura, Ricochet, Damian Priest, Santos Escobar, LA Knight, Butch, and Logan Paul are the ladder match participants.

Leading into Money in the Bank, Nakamura has been involved in a feud with Ricochet and Bronson Reed. Nakamura defeated Reed last month to qualify for the ladder match.

Ricochet defeated Nakamura on Raw this past Monday.

Two wrestlers qualify for men’s WWE Money in the Bank ladder match

Posted on by Ethan Renner

Two wrestlers qualified for the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match on Monday’s episode of WWE Raw. 

Ricochet defeated The Miz, and Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Bronson Reed in qualifying matches to punch their ticket to the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match set for the Money in the Bank pay-per-view on Saturday, July 1 from London. 

Qualifying matches will continue on Friday’s SmackDown, with one men’s bout and one women’s bout. In addition, two women’s qualifiers have been announced for next week’s Raw. 

On the men’s side, LA Knight will face Montez Ford of The Street Profits on SmackDown in a qualifying bout. 

The first women’s Money in the Bank qualifier takes place on SmackDown, with Zelina Vega facing Lacey Evans. 

Women’s qualifying matches will continue on next week’s Raw, with Becky Lynch vs. Sonya Deville, plus Zoey Stark vs. Natalya announced for that show. 

In addition, it was notable on Raw in a backstage promo segment with Gunther and Matt Riddle that Gunther suggested that Riddle could cash in for a shot at his Intercontinental Championship. While the Money in the Bank ladder match winner has traditionally challenged for a World title, the precedent was established last year that the contract could be cashed in on a secondary title, as Austin Theory unsuccessfully cashed in his Money in the Bank contract for a shot at the United States title.

Riddle vs. Jimmy Uso, Miz TV with Nakamura set for WWE Raw

Posted on by Ian Carey

WWE has announced a match and a segment for Raw. 

Matt Riddle vs. Jimmy Uso is now scheduled for the show, as revealed by Byron Saxton in a video posted on Monday. A Miz TV segment with Shinsuke Nakamura has been added to the lineup as well. 

WWE is also advertising that Cody Rhodes and Brock Lesnar will “be in the same building” tonight as they prepare to face one another at Backlash.  

WWE Raw on May 1, 2023 will take place from The Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas. According to WrestleTix, over ten thousand tickets to the show have been distributed. 

WWE Raw 5/1 lineup:

  • The Miz TV with Shinsuke Nakamura
  • Matt Riddle vs. Jimmy Uso
  • Cody Rhodes and Brock Lesnar to appear
  • Night Two of the WWE Draft

Wrestlers eligible to be drafted on WWE Draft night two, Monday, May 1 on Raw–

  • Akira Tozawa
  • Alpha Academy (Otis & Chad Gable)
  • Angel Garza & Humberto Carrillo
  • Asuka
  • Austin Theory
  • Baron Corbin
  • Braun Strowman & Ricochet
  • Brock Lesnar
  • Bronson Reed
  • Cedric Alexander & Shelton Benjamin
  • Charlotte Flair
  • Dana Brooke
  • Elias
  • Emma
  • Johnny Gargano
  • Judgment Day (Finn Balor, Damian Priest & Dominik Mysterio)
  • Karrion Kross (w/ Scarlett)
  • Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn
  • LA Knight
  • Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez
  • Nikki Cross
  • Piper Niven
  • Rhea Ripley
  • Rick Boogs
  • Riddick Moss
  • Ronda Rousey & Shayna Baszler
  • Seth Rollins
  • Shotzi
  • Tamina
  • Tegan Nox
  • The Brawling Brutes (Sheamus, Ridge Holland & Butch)
  • The LWO (Rey Mysterio, Santos Escobar, Cruz Del Toro, Joaquin Wilde & Zelina Vega)
  • The New Day (Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods)
  • The Usos (Jimmy Uso & Jey Uso)
  • Trish Stratus
  • Xia Li
  • Select NXT Superstars

Wrestling Observer Live: WWE SmackDown, AEW Rampage, Stardom

Posted on by Jim Valley

It’s Saturday and that means it’s time for Wrestling Observer Live.

Does it feel like we’re in the middle of a post-WrestleMania lull? WWE is somewhat spinning its wheels waiting for the draft in two weeks and Backlash after that. It’s hard to tell what has consequence and what will be reset with the draft. 

Meanwhile, it feels like AEW is awaiting the impending return of CM Punk. 

Plus, I talk about Stardom, Friday’s SmackDown and Rampage, Sunday’s Impact Rebellion, and I remember the late Butch Miller from his time in Portland Wrestling. You’ll hear him like you probably have never heard him before.

Click Here to Listen

WWE SmackDown video highlights: Shinsuke Nakamura returns

Posted on by Joseph Currier

Following an extended absence from WWE programming, Shinsuke Nakamura made his return last night.

In his first match back, Nakamura made quick work of Madcap Moss on last night’s SmackDown. Moss briefly had the advantage early until Nakamura took control and won with the Kinshasa. Moss tried to attack Nakamura after the match but was put in an armbar.

Nakamura’s next feud was then revealed as a warning from Karrion Kross and Scarlett played.

WWE uploaded a post-show interview with Nakamura after SmackDown went off the air. Nakamura said his aim in returning is to become the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.

Last night was Nakamura’s first televised match for WWE since November 2022. He also was in action for Pro Wrestling NOAH this January, defeating The Great Muta on Muta’s retirement tour.

More coverage from last night —

WWE SmackDown video highlights —

Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn & Matt Riddle brawl with The Bloodline

Xavier Woods vs. LA Knight

Gunther doesn’t like goofs, Xavier Woods wants the Intercontinental title

Damian Priest vs. Santos Escobar

Rey Mysterio saves Santos Escobar, brawls with Dominik

Deville & Green interrupt Raquel Rodriguez & Liv Morgan’s celebration

Shinsuke Nakamura returns, faces Madcap Moss

The Viking Raiders ambush Braun Strowman & Ricochet

Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn vs. The Usos title rematch set for April 28 SmackDown

Matt Riddle vs. Solo Sikoa

Solo Sikoa buries Matt Riddle under the announce table

SmackDown fallout: Shinsuke Nakamura’s aim is the Undisputed WWE title

SmackDown fallout: Sonya Deville & Chelsea Green refuse to be interviewed

SmackDown fallout: LA Knight doesn’t fear the WWE Draft

WWE SmackDown live results: Shinsuke Nakamura returns

Posted on by Dave Bath

Shinsuke Nakamura returns to WWE television on tonight’s SmackDown from Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska.

The King of Strong Style last appeared on SmackDown at the end of 2022, losing to Santos Escobar in the first round of the Fox World Cup. Nakamura traveled to Japan to compete in a match for Pro Wrestling NOAH earlier this year. He defeated The Great Muta in one of Muta’s final bouts.

LA Knight and Xavier Woods continue their feud when they go one-on-one tonight. Last week, Knight was furious that he didn’t compete at WrestleMania 39 but Snoop Dogg and Pat McAfee both made appearances. He mocked Woods for playing video games at WrestleMania. Woods didn’t appreciate the comments and challenged Knight to a match.

New WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Raquel Rodriguez & Liv Morgan will take part in a championship celebration tonight. They won the titles from Becky Lynch & Trish Stratus on Raw this Monday.

A singles match between LWO’s Santos Escobar and Judgment Day’s Damian Priest has also been announced for tonight. Our live coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

**********

Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn Segment 

They recapped Jey Uso defeating Zayn with Solo Sikoa’s help last week and Matt Riddle making the save. 

Undisputed Tag Team Champions Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn entered the ring to a massive reaction. The fans sang Zayn’s music and broke into a “Sami” chant. Zayn noted the tag team champions were in the main event at WrestleMania for the first time. He mentioned their friendship and winning the titles. Zayn said the WWE Draft makes things unpredictable. However, they haven’t thought about it because they’re busy dealing with The Bloodline.

Owens agreed with Zayn but added that The Bloodline is more dangerous than ever. He knows The Usos will come walking down the aisle, demanding a rematch. Right on cue, Sikoa and The Usos came down to ringside. The Usos felt Owens and Zayn were folding under pressure. They mocked the champions and promised they’d win the titles back. Zayn noted they’re not the ones who have to report to Roman Reigns without the title. Jey tried stirring up trouble instead. Jey admitted he was wrong. Owens won’t be the one to turn on Zayn. It’ll be Zayn who’ll stab Owens in the back.

Zayn is impressed with Jey’s ability to lie to himself. Everyone knows Reigns is furious they don’t have the titles. 

Owens and Zayn know The Bloodline didn’t come out to talk. Sikoa and The Usos surrounded the ring when Matt Riddle ran down to even the odds. Owens and Zayn brawled with The Usos. In the ring, Riddle rocked Sikoa with a knee to the face.

After the break, Adam Pearce announced Sikoa vs. Riddle in tonight’s main event. 

*********

– A video package recapped Xavier Woods and LA Knight’s feud on social media. 

Xavier Woods defeated LA Knight (11:46)

Woods defeated Knight in a great opener. They both were impressive, putting on a killer match. The pacing was outstanding as they started slowly, picking up towards the end. The fans reacted big to the match too.

Knight got another good reaction. Knight started with a side headlock until Woods escaped with a dropkick. Woods took over with a side headlock, sending Knight to ringside. Woods followed with a huge dive to the floor. 

Knight lured Woods to the other side of the ring. He sent Woods back first into the ring apron and then face-first into the ring post.

Back from the break, Woods missed a splash in the corner. Knight took advantage, hitting a jumping neck breaker for a near fall. Woods fired up, avoided Knight, slid through his legs, and hit a dropkick for a near fall. Knight recovered with a DDT for a two-count. Frustrated, Knight tried to suplex Woods out of the ring. Instead, Woods dropped Knight on the ropes and hit a double foot stomp to the back. Woods then hit a leg-drop off the second turnbuckle, but Knight grabbed the ropes. That was a great near fall. 

Knight used an O’Connor roll, grabbing the tights. The referee caught Knight trying to cheat. Woods recovered with an O’Connor roll, holding the tights for the win. Knight was furious the referee didn’t catch Woods cheating. 

*************

-The WWE Draft starts in two weeks. 

-Gunther met with Ludwig Kaiser and Giovani Vinci when Xavier Woods interrupted playing his trombone. Gunther and Woods argued. Woods challenged Gunther for a title shot since he doesn’t know which brand he will end up on in the Draft.

– A video package recapped Sola Sikoa injuring Matt Riddle last fall. 

In the back, Sami Zayn’s worried about Riddle taking on Sikoa. He told him to be careful. Kevin Owens disagreed and noted Sikoa injured Riddle months ago. Riddle will do things his way and promises to beat Sikoa later. 

*********

– Kayla Braxton spoke with Judgement Day’s Damien Priest, Rhea Ripley, and Dominik Mysterio. Braxton mentioned Zelina Vega making Ripley look bad. Ripley flipped out, but Dominik calmed the situation. Priest thinks Santos Escobar picks bad friends in Rey Mysterio and the LWO. Priest promised to address Bad Bunny in the ring. 

Judgment Day Segment 

Judgement Day made their way to the ring. Priest grabbed the mic and brought up Backlash and the host Bad Bunny. He told Bad Bunny he could sit in the front row and enjoy the show. However, he can’t put his hands on his family. 

They recapped Priest putting Bad Bunny through a table on Raw two weeks ago.

The LWO’s music hit, and Zelina Vega made her way to the ring. Ripley jumped out to confront her, allowing Santos Escobar, Joaquin Wilde, and Crus Del Toro to jump Priest and Dominik as they went to a commercial. 

Damien Priest (w/Dominik Mysterio & Rhea Ripley) defeated Santos Escobar (w/Zelina Vega, Joaquin Wilde & Cruz Del Toro) (11:30)

Priest and Escobar brought their A-game tonight. They had an excellent match with a hot crowd. Despite the LWO being a lame WCW gimmick, it’s working better this time. 

The match started during the break. Escobar was firmly in control until Priest caught him with a right hand. Escobar fought back with a dropkick for a near fall. Escobar hit nine punches in the corner, but Priest broke free. Priest sent Escobar to ringside with a big boot. He then jumped off the steps with a double ax handle on Escobar as they went to a break. 

Priest slowed the pace down, with knees to the face. Escobar and Priest fought on the top rope. Escobar got the better of Priest, hitting a hurricanrana for a close near fall. Escobar and Priest broke out into a slugfest. Escobar fired up with a running hurricanrana and a moonsault for another close near fall. The fans broke into a “Santos” chant. 

Mysterio got involved, but Wilde and Del Toro attacked Mysterio. Priest made the save, allowing Escobar to hit a suicide dive to a giant pop. Ripley grabbed Escobar’s leg, but Vega took her out with a hurricanrana to another massive pop. In the ring, Priest rocked Escobar with a kick to the face and hit South of Heaven for the win. 

After the match, Priest went to choke slam Escobar on the table, but Rey Mysterio made the save to a giant pop. Rey and Dominik traded shots in the ring to another big reaction. Rey set up for the 619, but Priest saved Dominik.

***********

– In the Bloodline locker room, Paul Heyman informed Solo Sikoa that he got off the phone with Roman Reigns. He noted that Riddle didn’t just embarrass Sikoa and The Usos. He also embarrassed and insulted Afa, Sika, Yokozuna, Umaga, Rikishi, and the Tribal Chief Roman Reigns. Sikoa stopped Heyman and spoke. He told Heyman to tell Reigns that he’s got this. 

**********

Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan Segment 

New WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan came to the ring dressed up to celebrate their win. 

A video package recapped Morgan and Rodriguez beating Becky Lynch & Trish Stratus for the titles on Raw.  

They made a big deal out of Rodriguez and Morgan winning the titles with fireworks going off. Rodriguez thanked Morgan for letting her throw her at people. Morgan told Rodriguez she could throw her anytime. 

Sonya Deville and Chelsea Green interrupted the celebration. Deville correctly pointed out that Rodriguez and Morgan didn’t beat the champions since someone attacked Lita, and Stratus filled in for her. 

Green believes Adam Pearce overlooked that important detail. Morgan and Rodriguez decided Deville and Green would be their next challengers. The champions then cleared the ring of the heels to end the segment. 

*********

Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Madcap Moss (w/Emma) (1:29)

Nakamura looked great, squashing Madcap Moss. Nakamura returned to a big reaction with a slightly different look. 

In the back, Emma told Madcap Moss not to listen to the fans. Only listen to her. Nakamura has nothing on Moss. Moss is stronger, faster, and better looking. Emma noted they needed the win tonight. That way, Moss can be the top pick in the Draft. 

Moss jumped Nakamura at the bell. Nakamura fought back with a spinning heel kick. He followed up with a kick to the head and a sliding German suplex in the ropes. Nakamura hit a knee off the middle rope to set up the Kinshasa for the win. 

After the match, Emma instructed Moss to attack Nakamura. Nakamura got the better of him with an armbar. 

********

– Ricochet and Braun Strowman were going for a leisurely walk backstage when The Viking Raiders jumped them. Ricochet tried to fight back, but the Raiders hit Ragnarok onto a table.

*******

– After the entrances for the main event, Paul Heyman grabbed the mic to announce Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens defending the tag team titles against The Usos in two weeks in a rematch. 

Heyman added that The Usos will win the titles because Roman Reigns is getting “impatient with the two of you.” Heyman was speaking to The Usos, but he was standing behind them. So they assumed he was talking to Zayn and Owens. Heyman walked to the back. 

Solo Sikoa (w/The Usos) defeated Matt Riddle (w/Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens) (10:41) 

Sikoa beat Riddle in a fun and hard-hitting main event. 

Sikoa used his power for the early advantage. Riddle kept going for a sleeper, but Sikoa escaped each time. Riddle tried fighting back, but The Usos interfered. 

Owens and Zayn argued with The Usos, resulting in the referee sending both teams to the back. Riddle tried to take advantage with a roll-up. Sikoa recovered and took over as they cut to a break. 

Riddle and Sikoa traded shots, with Sikoa getting the better of Riddle. Sikoa slowed the pace with a nerve hold. The fans broke into a “Riddle” chant. Sikoa missed a splash in the corner, allowing Riddle to recover. Riddle fired up with an exploder suplex. Riddle missed a kick and a moonsault. He went for a senton, but Sikoa got his knees up. Riddle fought back with the floating bro for a two-count.

The Usos returned to ringside, so Owens and Zayn came back too. Both teams brawled at ringside. The Usos took out Owens and Zayn with superkicks. Riddle then wiped out The Usos with the floating bro. 

The finish came when Sikoa caught Riddle with a superkick as he jumped into the ring. Sikoa then hit the Samoan Spike for the win. 

After the match, Sikoa gave Riddle the spinning Solo onto the announce table. He then turned the table onto Riddle. Owens and Zayn recovered to lift the table off Riddle. Sikoa and The Usos celebrated to end SmackDown. 

***********

Next Week: Intercontinental Champion Gunther defends against Xavier Woods. WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Raquel Rodriguez & Liv Morgan defend against Sonya Deville and Chelsea Green. Plus, Ricochet & Braun Strowman take on The Viking Raiders. 

In Two Weeks: WWE Undisputed Tag Team Champions Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn defend against The Usos. 

***********

Shinsuke Nakamura to return on next week’s WWE SmackDown

Posted on by Bryan Rose

Shinskue Nakamura will make his return to WWE on next week’s SmackDown.

Nakamura’s return was announced for next week’s show in Lincoln, Nebraska. Additionally, a match between LA Knight and Xavier Woods will take place.

Nakamura has not been seen on WWE television since the November 11 edition of WWE SmackDown, where he lost to Santos Escobar in the first round of the SmackDown World Cup. Since then, he’s mostly worked house shows, the most recent one being on January 22 where he teamed with Braun Strowman and Madcap Moss to defeat Imperium.

During his time off WWE television, Nakamura made a special appearance at Pro Wrestling NOAH’s The New Year 2023 event on January 1, where he defeated The Great Muta in one of his final matches before retiring one month later.

An angle took place on Friday’s SmackDown where LA Knight taunted Woods for playing video games. Woods challenged him to another match, which led Knight to destroy Woods’ PlayStation 5 controller.

Here is what is announced so far for next week’s SmackDown:

  • Shinsuke Nakamura returns
  • Xavier Woods vs. LA Knight

WWE’s Shinsuke Nakamura defeats The Great Muta at NOAH The New Year 2023

Posted on by Bryan Rose

Shinsuke Nakamura emerged victorious over The Great Muta at Sunday morning’s NOAH The New Year event at Budokan Hall.

The finish of the match had Nakamura kick out of Muta’s shining wizard. Nakamura, who had been misted by Muta during the match, retaliated with mist of his own. He then pinned Muta with the kinshasa.

After the match, Nakamura thanked Muta, calling him his idol. Nakamura celebrated in the ring briefly before running up the ramp and helped Muta walk to the stage entrance. Both posed on the stage as pyro went off, concluding the show.

This is Nakamura’s first match outside of WWE since signing with the promotion in 2017. While doing press for his match, Nakamura called the agreement between WWE and Pro Wrestling NOAH a “miracle”, noting it wouldn’t have happened under the previous Vince McMahon regime.

Keiji Mutoh will next appear at Wrestle Kingdom 17 on January 4, teaming with Hiroshi Tanahashi and Shota Umino to take on Tetsuya Natio, SANADA, and BUSHI. He will have two retirement shows: one as The Great Muta on January 22 where he will team with AEW’s Sting and Darby Allin, then another as Keiji Mutoh on February 21 at the Tokyo Dome.

Nakamura says Muta NOAH match wouldn’t have happened under old WWE regime

Posted on by Joseph Currier

WWE star Shinsuke Nakamura is heading home to Japan to face The Great Muta for Pro Wrestling NOAH this weekend — but it’s a match that wouldn’t be happening if Vince McMahon was still in charge of WWE.

In a Japanese-language interview with Encount ahead of facing Muta, Nakamura said the match only became possible after McMahon retired from WWE:

It was something that would never have happened under the previous structure of the WWE… Vince [McMahon] stepped down in the summer, and I was advised by people within the company that it might be possible now. Even so, I thought it would be difficult, but I spoke directly to Triple H. When the decision was actually made, I was shaken.

There was a big change in the WWE between when Mutoh announced his retirement and when the match was decided. Vince, who was the symbol of everything, was retiring, and that was something that no one could believe. Everything changes in America when the top changes. At that time, there was a feeling that many things would change in the future. One of the changes that occurred to me was this. The fact that ‘no’ became ‘yes’ gave me a boost.

Nakamura vs. Muta is happening at NOAH’s The New Year this Sunday (January 1, 2023). The show will air live on Wrestle Universe.

The match is part of Keiji Mutoh’s retirement tour. Mutoh have his final match as the Great Muta character on Sunday, January 22, teaming with Sting & Darby Allin in a six-man tag team bout. Mutoh will then have his final match at the Tokyo Dome on Tuesday, February 21.

Nakamura was part of a five-way ladder match for the Intercontinental title at WWE’s Madison Square Garden house show on Monday night. He most recently wrestled on television when he lost to Santos Escobar in the first round of the SmackDown World Cup tournament.

Daily Update: Shinsuke Nakamura, Friday ratings, Sasha Banks

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Daily Update

Latest News:

Latest Audio:

Latest Free YouTube Video:

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter:

October 31, 2022 Observer Newsletter: AEW completes All Out fight investigation, NXT Halloween Havoc

  • The new issue of the Observer is on the front page today. In hindsight, I think it’s kind of a sad issue filled with many what ifs, but highlights include:
  • The update on the situation after 9/4’s All Out PPV with the fight, suspensions, and investigation
  • The Wrestling Inc. story with new claims as to what happened, CM Punk’s thoughts from his side on things that had happened
  • More on why Punk did the interview he did on Adam Page
  • Reactions of others to that story
  • Why late 2023 and early 2024 are so key to AEW
  • How and why this was handled completely different from how UFC would handle a similar situation
  • The lessons of the entire situation
  • Full coverage of NXT Halloween Havoc
  • Comments from Shawn Michaels about the show
  • UFC 280 coverage and early business notes
  • Stardom PPV coverage and updates on the big decision regarding who is the first IWGP women’s champion
  • Ratings for all the major shows including how the main segments did
  • Major womens tournament news
  • Update on Laredo Kid injury situation
  • Next major AAA show
  • First pro wrestling show ever at Ariake Arena
  • Update on Karl Anderson in New Japan situation
  • New Japan TV title tournament thoughts and updates
  • New Japan joint tour next year
  • Former pro wrestling star inducted into sports Hall of Fame
  • Billy Corgan talks ideas for NWA to work with WWE or AEW
  • Legendary pro wrestling arena in danger of being torn down
  • New major project with Bret Hart coming involving Wrestling with Shadows being re-released
  • Tales from the Territory thoughts
  • Shocker gives his side of the story
  • Next few weeks of Impact TV
  • Update on AEW viewing and how many people have watched TV this year, plus actual numbers that watch the show weekly and other shows which is not the Nielsen number
  • New AEW signings
  • Upcoming ticket sales for AEW & WWE events
  • More notes on Chris Jericho’s first three AEW contracts
  • Thunder Rosa update
  • AEW overseas distribution update
  • Dana White talks Jon Jones return
  • Very interesting Conor McGregor note
  • Bellator part of Japan’s New Year’s Eve show
  • Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva notes
  • Lawsuit filed against Jake Paul
  • What types of angles can we expect more of in WWE
  • Early notes on “Black Adam”
  • WWE injury notes
  • How the World Series will effect pro wrestling shows this week
  • WWE talent up for a number of awards
  • International TV ratings and streaming numbers
  • New movies with WWE legend
  • Paul Heyman gets international mainstream exposure
  • First WWE talents to hit 100 matches this year

This Week’s Retro Observer Newsletter:

Ordering Info:

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

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

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

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

Monday News Update

Bryan and I will be back tonight with Wrestling Observer Radio. We’ll be talking all the news as well as talking with Nick Hausman of Wrestling Inc. regarding the AEW situation with C.M. Punk.

Shinsuke Nakamura spoke with Tokyo Sports, as did Pro Wrestling NOAH, regarding the Great Muta vs. Nakamura match on 1/1 at Budokan Hall that was announced yesterday. Nakamura pushed heavily for it. NOAH had the idea as soon as they announced the Keiji Muto retirement series in June. WWE at first turned down the idea but after Vince McMahon left the company, NOAH tried again to put the match together. WWE only agreed to allowing the match on Wednesday. Nakamura referred to it as “What is it? A dream? An illusion? It’s unmistakable, it’s reality.” In Tokyo Sports, he said, “It can only be called a miracle. I opened a door that no one could break in. Hahaha…it’s a real ‘Forbidden Door’.”

I would say I wouldn’t read anything into the Friday ratings because of the World Series competition, although both shows were down greatly from one year ago when they went against the World Series. Still, SmackDown has been doing well normally and people are used to the FS 1 number being way down and next week it bounces back.  

Raw tonight faces probably its stiffest competition of the year, but with Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns on tonight’s show, that may help them from doing any worse than last week. The show goes against Monday Night Football, which is the Cleveland Browns vs. Cincinnati Bengals. Plus in the past, Halloween has hurt wrestling numbers as well. It’s the go-home show for Crown Jewel so likely angles with Lesnar vs. Lashley. Logan Paul isn’t advertised for tonight so likely no physical angle with Reigns. They can’t do anything with Omos and Braun Strowman physically since Strowman is in Europe. Bianca Belair vs. Nikki Cross, Matt Riddle vs. Otis in a Trick or Street fight and Johnny Gargano promising the tell the truth about Miz nd Dexter Lumis are billed. Raw had 8,400 tickets out as of this morning.

The WWE Smackdown crew, minus Rey Mysterio, Los Lotharios and Legado del Fantasma (who went on the Mexico Raw tour instead) and without Roman Reigns have three more days on a European tour. They run tonight in Stuttgart, Germany, tomorrow in Dortmund, Germany and Wednesday in Geneva, Switzerland before the crew goes to Saudi Arabia. We’re looking for results, finishes and highlights from these shows to [email protected] . 

Advertised for Stuttgart today and Dortmund tomorrow ware Drew McIntyre vs. Sami Zayn, Usos & Solo Sikoa vs. Imperium, Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Baron Corbin, Ricochet vs. Xavier Woods, Ridge Holland vs. Madcap Moss, Hit Row vs. Maximum Male Models and Natalya vs. Shotzi plus Liv Morgan. Corbin was not on yesterday’s show so they may have taken him off the tour for Raw tonight.

We’re also looking for reports from Dallas tonight with Main Event matches, dark matches and anything else not on the live show.

Regarding Sasha Banks, she was a WWE guest at the show last night in Mexico City and was hanging around with Bayley. AAA wrestler Mamba took both to a restaurant and bar. One would think that means relations between the WWE and Banks aren’t negative right now.

Also at the show last night, there was an incident described as this: “There was a scary incident that angered some fans in attendance. Quetzalli Bulnes, host of WWE Ahora on YouTube, wanted to give an unplanned spot on the show to one of her friends, a wrestling YouTuber from Spain named Falbak, who was in ringside. Falbak jumped the barricade after Quetzalli encouraged him to do so. Byron Saxton called security to catch him, but Quetzalli ordered them not to do anything to him. Byron Saxton’s face was one of fear and then of anger with Quetzalli for this situation of which he, clearly, had no knowledge. Falbak attempted to get into the ring, but Quetzalli angrily yelled at him to leave and return to ringside. It was reported that Falbak apparently asked Quetzalli for a shout-out at the show and to go for him at ringside, because if she did that, he would give her a gift. But, Falbak’s plan would have been to get into the ring, declare his love for her and steal a kiss from her, regardless of Quetzalli’s response.” (thanks to William Beltran and Super Luchas)

We’re taking a poll this week on the New Japan show at the Palladium in New York, thumbs up, down or middle, best and worst match to [email protected]

Kevin Von Erich talks Zac Efron playing him in the upcoming Von Erichs movie

Regarding the “Wrestling with Shadows re-release that I did a 90 minute discussion for the new release with Bret Hart, it will be available around February.

Other Notes

WWE is doing a sale on some tickets through tonight for discounted tickets for upcoming shows in Pittsburgh, Norfolk, Louisville, Indianapolis and Tampa using the code scary on Ticketmaster.

VH-1 airs another episode of Surreal Life with CJ Perry (Lana) and Dennis Rodman at 9 p.m. Eastern.

Tales from the Territories tomorrow at 10 p.m. covers Stampede Wrestling with a panel of Bret Hart, Abdullah the Butcher, David Schultz and Bobby Bass. 

Tickets for NJPW on 2/18 in San Jose at the Civic Auditorium has a presale on Wednesday using the code NJPW and a public sale on Friday.

Bob Magee has a list of independent shows and charity work and contributions:

      • 1CW Pro Wrestling held Chokeslamming Cancer in Houston, DE on October 15, raising $4,200 for local cancer charities.
      • Live Pro Wrestling returned to Goderich, ON at Goderich Memorial Arena on October 15. $6,000 (and counting) went to the Hunter Costello Memorial Fun-dation, as part of a family friendly night of entertainment with live matches, silent auction, meet and greets with the performers, and a fundraising BBQ before the event.
      • GCW Charity Wrestling returned on October 15 to The Germania Club of Hamilton, ON, collecting 50 pounds of non-perishable food items for the local community food bank.
      • Wrestle Against Hunger returned to Tulsa, OK on October 15, collecting and later distributing bags of non-perishable groceries, frozen hams, donuts and other items.
      • Amped Up Wrestling presented Halloween Slam and Jam in Inglewood, CA on October 16 to raise $2,000 for the Joan and Harry A. Mier Center of Ability First.
      • CanAm Wrestling returned to Calgary, AB on October 19, for “Pick Your Poison” as part of their efforts with Nanbert Manor raising $170 benefitting 500 Toys for 500 Kids.
      • WrestlePro debuted in Chicago, IL on Friday night October 28, teaming up with Hope For Us Network as they presented “Champions Of Hope” to help support suicide prevention. The show was termed “a huge success” with the amount raised coming shortly.
      • World’s Finest Wrestling returned to Connersville, IN on October 29 with $256 raised going to the family of Kylee Cooper.
      • IWA Productions presented its 10th annual Wrestling for a Cause show in Mount Vernon, IL on October 30 raising $1,000 for the mammogram department at Crossroads Hospital
      • GCW Charity Wrestling came to Aurora, ON on October 30, collecting 100 pounds of non-perishable food for the Operation Sucog Food Bank.

Dungeon Wrestling promoted by Dallas Hart in Calgary Saturday: Tiger Raj Singh b Michael R. Blais, Bruno Blanco b The Prophets, Billington Bulldogs NC Bollywood Boyz, Brian Pillman Jr. b Chris Knight, Chis Masters b Rohan, Mo Jabari b CK Crimson-DQ, Nick Aldis b Harry Smith to win the Stu Hart Heritage championship (thanks to Ross Hart)

Shinsuke Nakamura details WWE/NOAH negotiations for Great Muta match

Posted on by Ian Carey

Shinsuke Nakamura has opened up about WWE granting him permission to face The Great Muta. 

It was announced on Sunday that Nakamura will face Muta at Pro Wrestling NOAH’s The New Year 2023 event on January 1 at Budokan Hall. An article in Tokyo Sports recently revealed how Nakamura was able to receive permission from WWE to do the match. 

“After a disagreement at first, he persisted in negotiating with a new regime after Chairman and CEO Vince McMahon retired in July,” a translation of the article reads. “The final agreement was reached on the 26th of this month, and it seems that the tenacity has paid off.”

Nakamura mentioned in the article that the match against Muta is something he worked hard to make happen. 

“It’s nothing but a miracle,” Nakamura said. “Of course, I wanted to do it. I opened a door that no one could break in. Hahaha…it’s a real ‘Forbidden Door’.”

 “I think it’s really fate, and I worked hard to make it happen. I’ve fought Keiji Muto twice in the past, but this was my first encounter with Great Muta, the first and last. I definitely think that I am in the midst of the miracle of the times,” he continued.

Keiji Muto’s last match as The Great Muta will take place on January 22, 2023 at The Great Muta Final Bye-Bye show in Yokohama. He will team with Sting on the show. Muto’s retirement tour then concludes with his final match on February 21, 2023, at the Tokyo Dome. 

Wrestling Observer Radio: A million weekend shows, tons of Japan news, reviews, more

Posted on by Bryan Alvarez

Wrestling Observer Radio with Bryan Alvarez and Dave Meltzer is back with tons to talk about including A MILLION SHOWS, Rampage, Smackdown, Rumble on 44th Street and the Night Before, Defy with Filthy Tom vs. Suzuki, Smackdown spoilers, RAW preview, Karl Anderson and the NEVER Title, Nakamura vs. Muto and tons more. A fun show as always so check it out~!

Timestamps:

Start: Defy live thoughts

4:58: Shinsuke Nakamura to wrestle The Great Muta in NOAH, Fujita vs. Kitomiya

8:50: Karl Anderson off NJPW Battle Autumn, show lineup

18:27: NJPW US weekend shows

30:25: Emma signs with WWE, Raw this Monday

32:46: SmackDown recap

44:21: SmackDown spoilers for this coming Friday

46:15: Jake Paul defeats Anderson Silva in boxing match

51:47: Rampage recap

1:04:14: Mailbag

Right Click Save As

WWE’s Shinsuke Nakamura to face The Great Muta at NOAH The New Year 2023

Posted on by Bryan Rose

Shinsuke Nakamura is heading to Pro Wrestling NOAH.

The company announced Sunday morning that the current WWE star will face The Great Muta in a singles match at NOAH’s The New Year 2023 event on January 1 at Budokan Hall.

Nakamura responded to the news on Twitter, writing “This is miracle”.

Keiji Mutoh is planning his retirement tour, which is set to end on February 21, 2023 at the Tokyo Dome. Most recently, he appeared under the Muta persona during NJPW’s Battle Autumn tour, costing The Great-O-Khan his NJPW World Television title match. He is set to have his final match in NJPW on November 20 at the NJPW x Stardom Historic X-Over event, where he will team with Kazuchika Okada and Toru Yano to take on Khan, Jeff Cobb, and Aaron Henare.

Mutoh’s final match under The Great Muta persona will take place on January 22, 2023 at The Great Muta Final Bye-Bye event in Yokohama. He will team with Sting with opponents yet to be named.

Shinsuke Nakamura appears on WWE NXT

Posted on by Bryan Rose

Shinsuke Nakamura was one of many main roster WWE stars to appear on Tuesday’s NXT.

Tony D’Angelo revealed Nakamura as the surprise opponent for Stacks. The two had a back and forth match, with Nakamura scoring the victory following the kinshasa. After the match Tony D’Angelo, who was at ringside during the match, told Stacks that he had earned his spot in the family, with announcers speculating that Stack’s position in the family had risen despite losing to Nakamura.

The match was made on last week’s show after Lorenzo lost to Wes Lee in a singles match. Backstage, a returning Tony D’Angelo appeared in crutches. He said that the loss had disappointed him and was looking at bringing in someone to face Lorenzo on next week’s show.

Nakamura, who usually competes on the SmackDown brand, hasn’t appeared on television recently. His most recent television match was on the September 2 edition of SmackDown, where he defeated Happy Corbin.