Tag: smackdown live results - Page 7

WWE SmackDown live results: Bray Wyatt & Terry Funk tributes

Posted on August 25, 2023 by Chris Maloney

WWE SmackDown takes place from the KFC Yum Center in Louisville, Kentucky tonight.

The company announced on Friday that the show will pay tribute to the late Bray Wyatt (Windham Rotunda). Wyatt passed away at 36 years old on Thursday due to a heart issue.

WWE hasn’t announced what the tribute will look like, but Director of Longterm Creative Rob Fee posted that tonight “is gonna be really special.”

The show will also pay tribute to Terry Funk, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 79.

It’s been confirmed that WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY will defend her title against Zelina Vega tonight. It’s SKY’s first defense since cashing in her Money in the Bank briefcase at SummerSlam to become champion.

A non-title match with United States Champion Rey Mysterio facing Grayson Waller is also set.

WWE had advertised that Jimmy Uso would be on SmackDown to continue the Bloodline story, but that segment is no longer included on WWE.com’s rundown for the show.

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

SmackDown opened with a graphic paying tribute to both Terry Funk and Bray Wyatt. The top of the entrance ramp was met by the WWE locker room including Braun Strowman and Wyatt family member Erick Rowan. Michael Cole then dedicated the show to the memories of Bray Wyatt and Terry Funk before we witnessed a moment of silence with a ten bell salute. After the ten bell salute, we were honored with the accomplishments, memories and lasting images of Windham ‘Bray Wyatt’ Rotunda and what he meant to the WWE Universe.

After the tribute played, WWE Superstars remained on stage, choking up as fans sang “He’s got the whole world in his hands…” before we saw a lone rocking chair sitting on stage before the camera faded away into darkness.

– A video tribute followed of Terry Funk’s peers recognizing and honoring him on social media.

– Michael Cole stated that Cody Rhodes was in attendance tonight and followed up by mentioning Dusty Rhodes’ rivalries with the late Terry Funk. Cole then stated that the WWE wanted to provide entertainment tonight as Rey Mysterio’s music hit.

Rey Mysterio defeated Grayson Waller in a non-title match

Waller was hungry to gain the victory against the current United States champion as quickly as he could but Mysterio remained resilient. Waller misstepped and action spilled to the outside and Mysterio gained momentum as we headed to commercial.

We are back from commercial and action was back in the ring and as Mysterio charged Waller in the corner, Grayson side-stepped and Mysterio was now in trouble. Waller followed up with a diving elbow but could only land a two count however.

Waller followed up by sending Mysterio corner to corner but as Waller attempted a powerbomb, Mysterio maneuvered and landed a seated senton and a tornado ddt but could only manage a two count himself.

Myterio with the momentum in his hand, managed to land Waller in a position to hit the 619 but before he could hit it, Austin Theory’s music hit causing the distraction. Santos Escobar hit the ring and countered Theory’s interference and after Mysterio was able to gain control of the match once again, he nailed Waller with the 619 followed by the Drop the Dime to get the 1-2-3.

– A video promo aired on the birth of The Wyatt Family.

– It was announced that on top of IYO SKY defending the WWE Women’s Championship against the LWO’s Zelina Vega tonight, we would also see Butch and Ridge Holland of The Brawling Brutes battle The Street Profits.

– A video promo aired on the return to WWE Friday Night SmackDown of the one-and-only John Cena live next week.

– A video tribute was shown of Bray Wyatt’s peers recognizing and honoring him on social media.

– Michael Cole announced that two of Bray Wyatt’s former foes would go to battle in the main event tonight as LA Knight would face Finn Bálor.

– Backstage, Kayla Braxton interviewed Damage CTRL. Bayley stated that this was IYO SKY’s era and it would remain that way.

IYO SKY (w/Damage CTRL) defeated Zelina Vega to retain the WWE Women’s Championship

After both competitors were introduced, we headed to commercial.

– Back from commercial and a video promo aired on the debut of The Fiend equipped with a QR code in the corner.

The bell rang and it was all SKY as Damage CTRL cheered on loudly from the outside. Vega attempted a comeback by climbing to the second rope but SKY caught her and Zelina was grounded hard to the mat.

Vega finally managed to gain momentum and managed to nail SKY with the Meterora but only managed a two count. SKY countered but so did Vega as she attempted to land Code Red but SKY escaped. SKY followed up and attempted to hit the air but Vega countered and nailed Code Red but SKY luckily rolled to he outside.

Vega followed SKY to the outside but IYO was able to execute an assault and send Zelina into the post switching momentum in her favor. SKY followed up by heading back into the ring, nailing Vega with the Over the Moonsault to retain the WWE Women’s Championship.

– Backstage, Cody Rhodes was shown heading to the ring to honor the career and legacy of the late Terry Funk.

– Another video tribute was shown of Bray Wyatt’s peers recognizing and honoring him on social media.

– Cody Rhodes made his way to the ring. Rhodes stated that he knew what he wanted to talk about tonight and shared a story when he was 11 years old, hearing a guy calling his father an “egg sucking dog”.

Cody paid tribute to the 50-year legacy of Terry Funk before introducing a video package honoring the career of the WWE Hall of Famer. Clips were shown of Funk’s highlights in the NWA, WWE and ECW before ending the package with Terry and Dory Funk Jr.’s induction into the WWE Hall of Fame in 2009.

After the package ended, Rhodes announced that the tag team match taking place next would be a Terry Funk Hardcore Match!

– A video promo aired on The Era of Wyatt, focusing on Bray winning the WWE Championship at Elimination Chamber in 2017.

The Street Profits defeated The Brawling Brutes in a Terry Funk Hardcore Tag Team Match

No count outs, no disqualifications and the new edge Angelo Dawkins & Montez Ford gained control of the match early on but it wouldn’t last long as in tribute to the late “Funker”, Holland picked up Butch in a fireman’s carry and swung him around, knocking out Dawkins and Ford, reminiscent of Funk’s infamous ladder spot in ECW.

The Street Profits would rebound and after Ford took out his opponents on the outside, Bobby Lashley made his presence known as we headed to commercial.

Back from commercial and Butch and Holland were in control but Lashley was now ringside and watching on like a shark. Momentum changed and Ford nailed Holland with a double team blockbuster but Butch was able to make the save.

Ford followed up with his “From the Heavens” frog-splash but Butch once again was able to make the save. Butch grabbed a table from under the ring but with no rules, Lashley got involved and laid out Butch. The Street Profits followed up with The Revelation through a table on Holland to score the 1-2-3 after a hard fought battle.

– A video promo aired on The Firefly Funhouse.

– Backstage, LA Knight was shown heading to the ring.

– Another video promo aired on the return of John Cena to WWE Friday Night SmackDown live next week.

– Another video tribute was shown of Bray Wyatt’s peers recognizing and honoring him on social media.

– Highlights were shown of this week’s past Monday Night Raw where LA Knight helped Akira Tozawa score a victory over The Miz.

– Video was shown of TMZ catching up with The Miz, questioning him about his feud with LA Knight.

LA Knight defeated Finn Bálor

Knight took the mic before the match to honor the career and legacy of the late Bray Wyatt. Knight stated that sometimes your greatest foe can become your greatest helper and said he held it together tonight until he thought about Bray’s family.

Knight then went into character and cut a promo on The Miz and his current feud with him. Knight finished the promo, telling The Miz to “run” .

– A video promo aired on Bray Wyatt’s return at Extreme Rules last year.

– Another video promo aired on the return of John Cena to WWE Friday Night SmackDown next week followed by the announcement of Rey Mysterio & Santos Escobar battling Austin Theory & Grayson Waller and the return of Jimmy Uso to Friday Night SmackDown as well.

Knight was quick to gain control of the match using his size and power and as he was capitalizing, it was announced that Knight would battle The Miz at WWE Payback early next month before we headed to commercial.

– A video promo aired on Bray Wyatt’s “Heartfelt Message” promo on SmackDown earlier this year.

We’re back from commercial and Bálor had gained momentum but Knight went back on the attack fairly quickly, landing some stiff shots but could only manage a two count. Bálor followed up with a sling blade but failed to capitalize any further.

Bálor nailed his running dropkick in the corner but missed the Coup de Grâce and Knight followed up with a massive powerslam. Knight furthered his momentum and after nailing a suplex from the top rope, hit the B.F.T. and picked up the victory.

– After the match, a lantern sat in the middle of the ring as a silhouette of Bray Wyatt was shown on the screen. Fans chanted “Thank you Bray” as the show came to an end.

Final Thoughts:

Touching tributes to both the late Bray Wyatt and Terry Funk but not what I expected with regards to the tribute shows the WWE produced for the late Owen Hart and Eddie Guerrero.

Nonetheless, the WWE honoured both men tonight with class and after seeing the presence of Braun Strowman and Erick Rowan on the entrance ramp tonight at the beginning of the show, you couldn’t help but shed a tear.

Hug your loved ones and let them know how much you appreciate them.

WWE SmackDown live results: Edge celebrates his 25th anniversary

Posted on August 18, 2023 by Colin McGuire

Edge will celebrate 25 years in WWE by squaring off with Sheamus on tonight’s SmackDown from Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The match was set up when Edge called out Sheamus last week, saying they had never faced each other one-on-one. Sheamus joined Edge in the ring to accept his challenge.

Also slated for SmackDown is a tag team match that pits Bianca Belair & Charlotte Flair against WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY & Bayley.

SKY and Bayley interrupted Charlotte’s match with Asuka last week as SKY attacked both wrestlers to end their match in a no contest.

The Grayson Waller Effect will welcome in Santos Escobar and new United States Champion Rey Mysterio. Last week, Escobar was unable to compete in a scheduled title match due to an attack by Austin Theory. As a result, Mysterio took Escobar’s place, ultimately beating Theory to win the US title.

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

**********

– Kevin Patrick welcomed everyone into the show. Patrick, Michael Cole and Corey Graves then hyped up the card for the night.

The Grayson Waller Effect with Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar

Escobar was selling his leg injury from last week with a brace on his knee. Waller started out by congratulating Mysterio on winning the U.S. title last week. Mysterio said it felt great to be U.S. Champion again. Waller asked Mysterio if Mysterio and Escobar were co-champions, but Mysterio said that wasn’t the case. Waller made the case for why Escobar had his chance at the U.S. title stolen from him. Waller said Mysterio wasn’t ready to pass the torch. Waller kept yelling until Escobar told Waller to shut up.

Escobar said the only person he’s mad at is Austin Theory. Escobar said he gave Mysterio his blessing because he has enormous respect for Mysterio. Escobar called Mysterio his mentor. Escobar said Waller’s attempts to break them up won’t work. As Escobar spoke, Austin Theory’s music hit and Theory came out in his wrestling gear with a microphone. Theory congratulated Mysterio on becoming a three-time U.S. Champion. Theory said what happened last week was a tragedy. Theory said Escobar wasn’t man enough to step up to Theory last week. Theory called himself the greatest U.S. Champion ever. Theory said Adam Pearce was going to come out to hand Theory back his U.S. title.

Pearce made his way down to the ring. Pearce said nobody wanted to hear Theory complain and out of nowhere, L.A. Knight’s music hit. The crowd went wild. Knight had a microphone in his hand. Knight started with his “Let me talk to you” line. Knight said Theory fumbled the ball. Knight congratulated Mysterio but said at some point, the title will go to Knight. Knight referenced going through 24 other men at SummerSlam. Knight challenged Theory to a match with the winner getting a shot at the U.S. title. Pearce made the match.

Austin Theory defeated L.A. Knight to earn a shot at the U.S. title [10:14]

This was a fine television match. Knight’s clothesline to the Miz was rough – and, while there’s no mistaking that Knight is super-over with live crowds, there always seems to be an awkward wrestling spot in his wrestling matches, but I digress – but they rebounded and Theory rightly got the cheap win. Does this set up a triple threat for the U.S. title or will it simply be Theory vs. Mysterio? Time will tell. As for this, the guys worked hard despite their limitations and it forwarded the story between Miz and Knight. All told, mission accomplished.

Before the match started, The Miz’s music hit and The Miz walked to the ring. The Miz joined the commentary team. The bell rang and Theory attacked Knight. Theory controlled the first minute of the match until Knight landed a clothesline and a suplex to even things out. Knight hit a powerslam for a two-count. Theory threw Knight outside and Theory grabbed Knight’s face while Miz jawed at Knight. Knight fired up and slammed Theory onto the commentary table repeatedly while Mix screamed at Knight. Miz and Knight exchanged words and Theory kicked Knight in the face, but Knight came back quickly by throwing Theory into Miz. Knight posed and the show went to a commercial break.

Back from break, Theory was working a side head-lock. Theory landed a rolling dropkick for a two-count. Theory hit a strong clothesline and went to the apron, where he went for another rolling move, but Knight caught Theory and hit a back suplex. Knight ran Theory into corners and then landed a neck-breaker. Knight got in a Russian Leg Sweep and a boot for a two-count. Knight was bleeding from his forehead. Knight landed a running knee to Theory’s head. Knight lifted Thoery, but Theory rolled out and chop-blocked Knight. Theory went for A-Town Down, but Knight got out of it and countered into a body slam. Miz jumped to the apron, and Knight turned his attention to Miz until Knight landed a DDT on Theory. Knight then went to the outside and chased the Miz everywhere until Knight clotheslined Miz to the floor. Theory rolled up Knight and held the tights for the win.

**********

– John Cena sent a video in congratulating Edge for 25 years. Sheamus and Natalya offered up videos, too. The Miz, Charlotte, and Sami Zayn did the same.

– Michael Cole spoke affectionately about Edge at the commentary table and Kevin Patrick threw to a montage of Edge moments.

**********

Bayley and Dakota Kai made their entrance. Bayley had a microphone and introduced IYO SKY, who then made her entrance to set up the women’s tag team match.

Charlotte Flair & Bianca Belair defeated IYO SKY & Bayley [13:50]

Who says these wrestling companies don’t give women significant TV time?! OK, yeah, WWE, AEW and everyone in between could do better, but this took up a significant amount of time and while it felt a tiny bit over-long, I have to give WWE credit for carving out space for this. The match had its moments both good and bad, but in the end, it’s a good thing to have these women on television this much on the company’s biggest television show. I half-expected Shotzi involvement, but perhaps WWE really wants to eventually get behind Charlotte and Bianca as a tag team? We’ll see. Also of note: IYO SKY is just great.

Bayley and Belair began the match. Bayley went for a takedown, and eventually stepped on Belair’s foot. Belair came back with a slam and then worked a side head-lock. Belair landed a suplex and danced before tagging in Charlotte. Charlotte put the boots to Bayley. Charlotte chopped Bayley to the ground. Charlotte lifted Bayley, but Bayley countered by pulling Charlotte down via her hair. SKY tagged in and Charlotte chopped SKY. Charlotte hit a boot to SKY’s head, which took SKY to the outside. Charlotte then landed a rolling splash onto both SKY and Bayley as the show went to break.

Back from the break, Charlotte had control over Bayley and climbed to the top. Bayley cut Charlotte off and slammed Charlotte from the top. SKY tagged in and kicked Charlotte’s head before sinking in a head-lock. Charlotte worked her way out of it, but SKY came back with a submission attempt. SKY went for a suplex, but Charlotte reversed it with a back body-drop and went for the hot tag, but somehow didn’t get it. SKY landed a dropkick on Charlotte. From there, Charlotte finally got the hot tag to Belair.

Belair attacked SKY and hit a vertical suplex before firing up the crowd. Belair landed a series of punches onto SKY’s head until Bayley ran in and Bayley was the victim of a back-breaker. SKY slowed things down when she dropkicked Belair’s knee. Bayley tagged in and worked on Belair’s knee. There was blood on Charlotte’s face. Belair slammed both SKY and Bayley and Belair got the tag to Charlotte, who came off the top and took both SKY and Bayley out. Charlotte landed a fallaway slam on Bayley and then hit a clothesline for a two-count on Bayley. Charlotte went to the top, but Bayley pushed Charlotte off to the outside. Charlotte clutched her ankle and SKY attacked Charlotte.

Back in the ring, Bayley went for a pin and got a two-count. SKY tagged in and went for a moonsault, but Charlotte moved. SKY followed that up with a strike to Charlotte’s jaw. Bayley tagged in and went for a figure-four, but Charlotte cut her off and tagged in Belair. Almost instantly, Belair landed the KOD on Bayley for the win.

**********

– Cody, AJ Styles, Bayley, Ricochet, Kevin Owens and more sent in videos giving their thanks to Edge.

– Bianca Belair was being interviewed backstage, but was then attacked by Damage CTRL. IYO SKY hit Belair’s leg with a chair and Belair screamed in agony.

**********

The Street Profits (Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins) defeated The O.C. (Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows) [3:12]

As basic as it gets. The Profits are in the middle of a reboot and Anderson & Gallows are in the middle of … well … not much. Still, The O.C. got in way more offense than I anticipated they would, so good on the Profits for giving them what they did. It still feels like the crowds aren’t ready to completely hate the Profits, so it’ll be interesting to see what WWE does with the trio of them and Lashley as it evolves. As for this match, it was just kind of there.

Gallows and Ford began the match with Gallows coming out strong. Anderson tagged in quickly and hit a series of strikes on Ford, until Ford came back with a strong clothesline. Dawkins tagged in and went after Anderson, eventually hitting a pump-handle slam. Ford tagged in and landed a frog-splash for a two-count that was broken up by Gallows, who was instantly thrown outside. Dawkins put Anderson on his shoulders, but Anderson worked out and hit a spine-buster on Dawkins. Gallows tagged in and and The O.C. went for the Magic Killer, but Ford broke it up. Ford tagged in and the Profits hit their (new?) finisher for the win. After the match, Bobby Lashley’s music hit and Lashley came out to celebrate with the Profits.

**********

– Paul Heyman was shown backstage and Kayla Braxton approached him asking for an update on the Bloodline. Heyman said he wouldn’t give an update. Braxton said she had been hearing rumors. Heyman asked her about what rumors she heard. Heyman said Jey Uso abandoned the WWE Universe. Heyman asked about Braxton’s mom and dad because he said he heard rumors about her family. Heyman worked in a jab at L.A. Knight which was funny. Heyman answered his phone and stepped away. Heyman said the caller told him that Jimmy Uso will be live on SmackDown next week.

**********

Edge defeated Sheamus [19:03]

This was fantastic. Edge looked like he might have had enough after about eight minutes, but he gutted it out and those false finishes were a lot of fun. Who knows what happens from here. Who knows if Edge is really done wrestling. Who knows if Edge goes on to wrestle somewhere else. Whatever it is, put it away and just consider how close those two dudes must be because the emotions felt like they were running wild from the second the bell rang. Both guys worked hard and while the outcome probably wasn’t much in doubt, this was one of the better wrestling matches SmackDown has seen in a little while. Add in the extra curricular stuff, and this was very good. It’s not often SmackDown produces a wrestling match that I’d say you should seek out if you missed it, but this was one of them. A tip of the cap to everyone involved.

The two shook hands after the bell rang. They locked up and Edge shoulder-blocked Sheamus to the mat. Sheamus returned the favor. Sheamus landed an Irish Curse to take Edge down and the show went to break. When it returned, Edge landed a back elbow on Sheamus and kept control. Action spilled to the outside, where Edge hit a powerbomb off the apron on Sheamus. Edge rolled Sheamus back into the ring and went to the top to hit a cross-body for a two-count. Edge went for a Sharpshooter, but Sheamus kicked his way out of it. Edge rolled to the apron and Sheamus picked him up for 10 Beats, but Edge cut him off and landed 10 punches on Sheamus. Edge got in a series of knees to Sheamus’s midsection. Edge then went through the ropes and speared Sheamus off the apron as the show went to commercial.

When the show returned, Sheamus was working a submission as the crowd fired Edge up. As a result, Edge punched his way out of it and worked a cross-face on Sheamus. Sheamus made his way to the ropes for a break. The two made it to their feet and Edge ran at Sheamus, but Sheamus got his legs up and then went to the top. Edge cut Sheamus off with a boot and went to the top, too, where he hit a super-plex and then rolled that into the Edge-E-Cution for a two-count. The crowd chanted “You still got it!” Edge went to the top, but Sheamus cut Edge off with a kick.

The two battled while Edge sat on the top rope. Sheamus went to the second rope and hit White Noise from the second rope. Sheamus then landed the Celtic Cross and went for a pin, but it resulted in a very good near-fall. Edge rolled to the apron and Sheamus hit the 10 Beats. Edge flipped Sheamus off and Sheamus went back to the 10 Beats. The whole thing went further than 10 Beats, but who’s counting? Sheamus jawed at Edge, but Edge slapped Sheamus and then clotheslined him. Edge fired up and the crowd did so with him. Edge went for a spear, but ran into a knee from Sheamus. Sheamus followed up with a boot to the face for another great near-fall. Sheamus went for another boot, but Edge rolled him up and hit a spear for another very good near-fall. Edge then landed another spear for the win.

After the match, Edge looked like he was going to cry. Beth Phoenix looked like she was crying in the audience. The commentary team laid out and the show went off the air as Sheamus and Edge hugged.

WWE SmackDown live results: SummerSlam fallout

Posted on August 11, 2023 by Colin McGuire

After returning at Sunday’s SummerSlam to turn against his twin brother, Jimmy Uso is slated to speak during a Hail To The Chief segment on tonight’s WWE SmackDown from Calgary, Alberta, Canada.

Jimmy interfered in the Roman Reigns vs. Jey Uso Tribal Combat match at last Saturday’s pay-per-view, costing his brother a chance to win the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship by attacking him near the end of the match.

Austin Theory will defend his United States title against Santos Escobar after Escobar won the United States Championship Invitational two weeks ago when he defeated Rey Mysterio in the finals.

After weeks of causing Yhe O.C. trouble, Karrion Kross will square off with AJ Styles as well. Kross defeated Karl Anderson on the July 28th SmackDown.

Rounding out the card is Asuka vs. Charlotte who will wrestle each other after they both came up short against Bianca Belair at SummerSlam for the WWE Women’s Championship. Belair’s reign as champion was short-lived when IYO SKY cashed in on her to win the title.

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

**********

– Kevin Patrick welcomed everyone into the show. Corey Graves chimed in to help run down the show before Charlotte’s music hit and we went to the ring. Before the match started, Patrick introduced Michael Cole as the third member of the commentary team and a video recapping the triple threat for the WWE Women’s Championship at SummerSlam aired.

Charlotte and Asuka battled to a no-contest [9:14]

And for those of you wondering how they’d get out of this match clean … well we have our answer. Charlotte and Asuka have a weird history, performance wise, but I feel like it more often than not depends on Charlotte’s night. If she’s having a good one, these two can create magic. If she’s not, the disappointment feels bigger. It was more the latter than the former here, but it was fun while it lasted. My biggest issue is that it felt like the two women were just about to turn the corner into the next gear … and then the flukey finish happened. I’m not sure what this means, unless if it sets up a tag match for later, but we’ll have to see. Either way, it’s good to see Dakota Kai back on TV, even if she can’t get physical.

The two locked up early, with Charlotte getting the best of it. There appeared to be a little miscommunication early as Charlotte and Asuka attempted to trade blows. Asuka earned the upper hand with a dropkick and some kicks to Charlotte’s chest. Charlotte fire the crowd up and went to the top, but Asuka cut her off by slamming her off the top. Charlotte was bleeding from her mouth. Asuka landed a dropkick from the top and got a two-count out of it. The show then went to break.

Back from that break, Charlotte landed a splash onto Asuka, who was on the outside. Charlotte then did the same thing inside the ring. Charlotte hit a series of chops. Charlotte slammed Asuka and hit a clothesline for a two-count. Charlotte speared Asuka and set up for the Figure-Eight, but Damage CTRL’s music hit and that distraction Charlotte enough for Asuka to roll Charlotte up for a two-count. IYO SKY paraded her title around ringside as Bayley stood on the apron. Charlotte went for Bayley, but SKY came off the top to double-dropkick both Asuka and Charlotte to end the match.

**********

– Kayla Braxton interviewed Santos Escobar backstage. Escobar said he’s feeling confident about his match with Austin Theory. As Escobar was talking, Theory showed up and suplexed Escobar onto a traveling case. Theory then slammed the top of a case onto Escobar’s knee to end the segment.

– A video announcing that Edge will celebrate 25 years of him next week aired. Cameras went backstage, where Escobar was icing his leg down after the Theory attack. Meanwhile, the show joined Karrion Kross’s entrance midway through it back in the ring.

AJ Styles defeated Karrion Kross [9:38]

This was pretty good for a WWE TV match. You can’t deny that they’ve tried to give this program some weight over the weeks and while we can argue all day about if it worked, attention must be paid to the fact that it felt an awful lot like the point of this was to elevate Kross on some level. Can’t be mad at the idea. My only gripe is the question of where everyone goes from here. Styles and The OC could certainly mean more while Kross … and I truly hate to say this … just seems to still be spinning his wheels. This match had its low points, but it also had some nice moments as well. I’m not so sure that any of it helped anybody.

Both guys had more hair on their face and head than we’ve know them to have in WWE. Styles started things off with a dropkick and immediately went to work on Kross’s neck. Kross worked his way back quickly with a high back body-drop. Kross jawed at Styles and threw him into a turnbuckle. With Styles on the top, Kross went for a suplex, but Styles countered by slipping through his legs and clotheslining Kross to the outside. Styles ran at Kross, but Kross caught Styles and landed a Death Valley Driver on Styles onto the commentary table. The show went to a commercial break.

Coming back from commercial, Styles had control in the ring and went to the apron. Styles went for the Phenomenal Forearm, but Kross caught him and sank in the Kross Jacket. Styles powered up and ran Kross into a turnbuckle. The two had a scary exchange where nothing quite worked, but it resulted in a two-count from Styles. Styles kicked Kross in the head and set up for the 450 splash. Styles hit it and went for the pin, but Scarlett put Kross’s foot on the rope for a break.

Michin tried to attack Scarlett, but Scarlett countered and took Michin out. Inside the ring, Kross went for the Kross Hair, but Styles ducked it and went for the Styles Crash. Scarlett got on the apron to get in the way of that, but Michin threw Scarlett over the broadcast table in a wild spot. Back in the ring, Styles landed the Styles Clash and got the win.

**********

– Edge’s music hit, Edge made his entrance, and the place went nuts. And I do mean nuts. The show then went to commercial break.

– Back from the break, Cathy Kelly was backstage saying she wasn’t sure if Santos Escobar would make the match for later. Rey Mysterio appeared and said Escobar would made it to the match. From there, we went back to the ring, where Edge stood.

The Edge Segment

Edge noted how he wasn’t advertised to be there. Edge said he saw that Calgary was on the docket the week before Toronto and it had been way too long since Calgary saw Edge. The crowd cheered and Edge said next week, he wants to have a match. Edge said he’s never had a match with Sheamus and he wants to have one with him next week. Edge explained that Sheamus is the reason Edge can still stand in the ring. Edge said Sheamus lit the fire under Edge’s butt to make Edge believe he can step back into the ring.

Edge talked about Sheamus’s YouTube show and Edge recalled how Edge wiped out on the Sheamus show and that was when Edge’s lightbulb lit up. Edge said he called Sheamus before his Royal Rumble return to ask Sheamus if he thought Edge was ready. Edge said Sheamus moved in with him and became part of his extended family to prepare for the Rumble. Edge remembered how they got in the ring every day and after that, Edge said he was ready. Edge said he needed an answer now and introduced Sheamus.

Sheamus made his way to the ring and said, “What a Canadian, eh?” Sheamus set up the Edge footage from his YouTube show and they rolled the tape. Edge then called for the production team to put a photo on the tron of Sheamus sitting on Edge’s daughter’s bike. Sheamus said he wanted to get serious and explained that in 2004, he was wondering if he’d pursue a career in WWE or head back to a day job. Sheamus said while he was working in a club, he went up to everyone in WWE and they gave him a cold shoulder … except for Edge, who gave Sheamus time and advice. From there, Sheamus said he knew Edge was a world-class act. Sheamus said without that conversation from 2004, Sheamus wouldn’t be standing in that ring. Edge said he wanted an answer to his challenge and ultimately, Sheamus accepted the challenge for next week.

**********

– A video celebrating Hulk Hogan’s birthday aired. He’s 70, even though I have been told all my life he is immortal, so who knows what’s what.

LA Knight defeated Top Dolla [2:00]

Basic stuff here, though good on Knight for giving Top Dolla so much offense – Dolla ostensibly controlled the first 90 seconds of the match before Knight hit a move or two and then his finish for the win. Still, forward movement for Knight is good movement. The crowds continue to eat it up and even if it just means a quick squash and a catchphrase to remind everyone he’s still him, that’s a job well done.

Knight took a cheating beating early on from the rest of Hit Row while the ref was distracted. Dolla lifted Knight, but Knight got out of it and hit a bulldog from the second rope. Knight hit Ashante Thee Adonis and did the LA Knight thing before hitting an elbow. Knight landed the BFT for the win.

After the match, Knight grabbed a mic and the crowd did their part perfectly. Knight called Top Dolla Uncle Phil. Everyone yelled “LA Knight Yeah!” Graves called Knight DJ Khalid and boy, I’m not sure how wrong he was. From there, Adam Pearce checked to see if Escobar could wrestle in the training room. Escobar said he could go and from there, the show went to commercial break.

**********

– We got a backstage video from Bobby Lashley and the Street Profits. Lashey said the saddest thing in life is untapped potential. Lashley said the Profits have so much potential and reflected on how great last week was. Lashley said championship gold is theirs to take. The three cheers’d to changing things on SmackDown.

Santos Escobar walked to the ring, but Theory attacked Escobar from behind. The rest of the LWO came out to tend to Escobar. Theory got a mic and said he was sorry that the audience wouldn’t see Theory live. Theory said he wanted to defend his US title, but it turned out Escobar was too weak. As a result, Adam Pearce came out and inserted Rey Mysterio into the match instead. Mysterio went to the ring and took Theory out as the show went to a break.

Rey Mysterio defeated Austin Theory to win the US title [2:40 of TV time]

This felt about right, if we’re being honest. Whatever the history books say this era of Austin Theory is once it’s all said and done, I hope all those books agree that it didn’t work the way anyone hoped it would. Theory hasn’t really connected on most every level. I still think potential is there; I just don’t know how the WWE system taps into it. In the meantime, a Mysterio win makes everyone feel good and it sets up an interesting dynamic between Mysterio and Escobar. Also, this was the rare instance where not seeing half the match didn’t really matter – Theory isn’t turning masses of heads with his in-ring work so why belabor it? This was as good as anyone could hope.

When the show returned, Mysterio went to the top and landed a Senton and a splash for a two-count. Mysterio went to the second rope, but Theory caught him and Mysterio ultimately landed somewhat of a buckle bomb for a two-count. Mysterio set up the 619, but Theory caught him to break it up. Mysterio came right back, set it up again and actually hit it for the win.

**********

– Next week, Rey Mysterio will be on the Grayson Waller Effect. We’ll also get Sheamus vs. Edge.

The Bloodline Segment

Roman Reigns made his entrance flanked by Solo Sikoa and Paul Heyman. After a commercial break, we got back to the ring, where Reigns told Calgary to acknowledge him and the crowd responded in kind. Reigns asked Heyman where Jimmy was and Heyman said he didn’t know. Heyman said he spoke to Jimmy in the morning, but … well … Jimmy showed up in his hoodie with no fanfare. When the spotlight came to him, the crowd booed and chanted “You sold out!”

Roman said, “Jim, don’t worry about them (the crowd). They mean nothing.” Roman said he owed Jimmy. Roman said Jimmy can name his price and whatever it is, it’ll be done. New car? Done. Yacht? Done. Jimmy interrupted Roman and said what he did at SummerSlam has nothing to do with Roman. Roman continued to bargain with Jimmy and while he did so, the Usos theme hit and Jey made his entrance.

Jey stepped into the ring and grabbed Jimmy’s microphone. The Usos stared at each other for a second. Jey demanded an answer from Jimmy as to why Jimmy did it. Jimmy said he did what he did at SummerSlam because he loves Jey. Jimmy said he didn’t do it because of jealousy. Jimmy said he was afraid he’d lose Jey if Jey beat Roman. Jimmy said Jey would have inherited power that would have made Jey like Roman and Roman is corrupted. Jimmy called Roman an asshole and he didn’t want Jey to become an asshole like Roman.

Jimmy said if Jey hates Jimmy, it’s fine because the only reason was that Jimmy loved Jey. Jimmy said if Jey wants to kick Jimmy’s face off, he can. Jimmy closed his eyes and waited for the kick. Jey turned his back on Jimmy and Jimmy walked around Jey. Jimmy nodded and left the ring. Roman laughed and said it was a perfect time to say he told Jey so. Roman said Jey doesn’t know what he’s doing. Roman said tonight was about one thing – acknowledging Roman. As Roman said it, Jey super-kicked Roman.

Solo responded by attacking Jey, but Jey kicked Solo. Roman then Superman Punched Jey. Roman went to spear Jey, but Jey super-kicked Roman and speared Roman. Jey grabbed a mic and told Jimmy to walk back down to the ring. It looked like they would hug, but Jey super-kicked Jimmy. Jey said he’s out of the Bloodline, SmackDown and WWE and left through the crowd. Jey walked through the crowd and the crowd chanted “Jey!” to end the show.

WWE SmackDown live results: The final stop before SummerSlam

Posted on August 4, 2023 by Ryan Howard

WWE is at the Nutter Center in Dayton, Ohio tonight for the final stop before SummerSlam.

On the eve of Tribal Combat, Jey Uso is set for action against his younger brother Solo Sikoa. Jey is challenging Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at Saturday’s pay-per-view. Reigns’ title of Tribal Chief will also be on the line.

WWE Women’s Champion Asuka, Bianca Belair, and Charlotte Flair will all be appearing tonight. Asuka is defending her title against Belair and Flair in a triple threat match at SummerSlam.

LA Knight will go one-on-one with Sheamus. Both have been announced as entrants for the battle royal that’s taking place at SummerSlam. The battle royal is sponsored by Slim Jim.

Plus, there will be a new edition of The Grayson Waller Effect with guests Damage CTRL (IYO SKY and Bayley). SKY holds the women’s Money in the Bank briefcase and could potentially cash in at SummerSlam.

Our live coverage starts at 8 pm. Eastern time.

The Summerslam go home episode of Smackdown comes on the air with the music of LA Knight hitting to a huge ovation.

Knight talked about the now 25 man Battle Royal at Summerslam tomorrow night. The graphic showed Knight, Sheamus, Shinsuke Nakamura, Karrion Kross, AJ Styles, Riddle, Santos Escobar, Grayson Waller & The Miz. Knight said that graphic obviously wasn’t everyone in it, ran down The Miz before insulting Sheamus leading to our opening contest.

LA Knight defeated Sheamus (w/Ridge Holland & Butch)

(A solid opening contest that put over the massively popular Knight while getting the guys involved in the battle royal as well. The battle royal seems like just a filler match to get guys on the card, but a win for Knight would make the crowd go wild.)

Sheamus showed off his power early, but Knight gained momentum before hitting a cross body sending both men tumbling outside. We then saw Santos Escobar, The Miz, Grayson Waller, Karrion Kross & AJ Styles all made their way ringside one by one. Sheamus & Knight fought to the apron where Sheamus connected with White Noise on the edge of the ring leading to commercial.

Back from break, Knight fought out of a chin lock and planted Sheamus with a reverse DDT. A slugfest ensued with Sheamus running into a slam by Knight, who got the crowd to chant his name before connecting with a leaping elbow drop. Knight got a near fall off a Torture Rack slam, but Sheamus escaped Blunt Force Trauma into an Irish Curse. While in the corner, Sheamus connected with an avalanche White Noise. Sheamus locked in a Cloverleaf, but Knight got the rope break. Sheamus pulled himself up in the corner, but took too long, as Knight tried to spring up to him, but both men slipped and fell to the floor.

As the ref checked on both men, Austin Theory ran out and attacked Escobar from behind as everyone ringside started brawling with one another. The Miz ran his mouth too much and ate the Ten Beats of the Bodhran by Sheamus, but as he turned around, Knight connected with Blunt Force Trauma to get the win. Knight escaped Kross & Waller’s clutches post match, as they said they will get him tomorrow.

**********

-Backstage The Brawling Brutes & The OC are arguing and had to be separated by Adam Pearce, who told Holland, Butch, Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows all to go out to the ring and settle it as Sheamus & Styles ended in a face off.

-A very good music video documenting the rivalry of Cody Rhodes & Brock Lesnar is shown. Their saga ends at Summerslam.

**********

Ridge Holland & Butch vs. Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows (w/Michin) ended in a No Contest

(The match itself was fine, but simply a set up to reintroduce The Street Profits and their new look and attitude. I’m hoping for big things for Dawkins & Ford now that they’re associated with Bobby Lashley.)

Gallows & Holland slugged it out early, as Gallows hit a fall away slam and corner splash before Anderson made the tag and The OC hit a big boot leg sweep combo. A spinning butterfly suplex from Holland allowed Butch to tag in and twist away at the fingers, arm, ear, nose and even goatee of Anderson. Gallows managed a tag and a double team back suplex neckbreaker combo allowed them to control the action into commercial.

Anderson taunted Holland too long and a clothesline led to a hot tag for Butch, who ran wild with corner kicks and diving knee drop to the arm. The match broke down with all four men involved as Holland was sent outside by Anderson, as Butch was going to go for the finish when The Street Profits, both in suits, attacked both teams. A Sky High, spinning butterfly suplex and Pounce into a back suplex led to Angelo Dawkins & Montez Ford standing tall at the ramp with Bobby Lashley joining them with a giant smile on his face.

-A vignette of Charlotte Flair on a yacht is shown talking about the biggest women’s match in Summerslam history. She said she’s not looking to beat Bianca Belair or Asuka tomorrow, they have to beat her. That line honestly just made it seem like Charlotte had no interest in winning the title. Michael Cole called her a trailblazing superstar.

**********

Paul Heyman Explains The History of the Tribal Chief

Heyman was in the ring, briefly insulted the crowd and said this was the last thing Roman Reigns wanted to happen. Heyman told the fans to blame Jey Uso for most likely never seeing Jimmy Uso ever again. What happens to Jey Uso tomorrow won’t be anyone else’s fault but Roman Reigns’ as there will be no remorse, regret or plea for benediction. Heyman threw to a history video package of the Tribal Chief ceremonial necklace the Ula Fala. We see comments from The Wild Samoans, Afa & Sika as Heyman said the only rule in the Tribal Combat will be there must be a winner. Back to Heyman in the ring, who said Reigns is the Undisputed Universal Champion and everyone’s Tribal Chief for almost three years, something Jey Uso will never be.

The only spoiler Heyman was about to give was cut off by The Uso music and Jey Uso made his way to the ring to a massive ovation. Jey said he’ll light up Reigns with sticks, chairs and since he’s the head of the table, he’s going through one. Jey said he will bring everything he has tomorrow to beat Roman Reigns and become the new Tribal Chief and Universal Champion. Solo Sikoa then made his way out and had to be held back by Heyman, who told Jey he screwed up.

Jey tried to tell his brother the mind games don’t work anymore, as he doesn’t need to follow orders from Reigns. Heyman told him to stop, questioning whether Sikoa believed that or not and Sikoa seemed to hesitate to the surprise of Heyman. Sikoa told Heyman to get out of the ring, but Jey popped Sikoa with a superkick to the floor. Jey told Heyman that he’ll see Reigns tomorrow, but Sikoa later tonight.

-A recap of Santos Escobar earning his US Title shot next week is shown, along with the moment Rey Mysterio got injured on the dive. Michael Cole said Mysterio is considered day to day and suffered severe whiplash.

-Kayla Braxton is backstage with Austin Theory, who questioned how Escobar won last week when the match was stopped. Theory hopes Mysterio is watching next week, as he’s dedicating his win next week to Rey. Tonight, Theory will crush the dreams of Cameron Grimes after experiencing Austin Theory live.

**********

United States Champion Austin Theory defeated Cameron Grimes in a Non Title Match

(Theory got off two moves this entire match, as Grimes took the whole thing aside from that. I know Theory was distracted by Escobar, but this certainly didn’t make the US Champion look strong heading into his title defense next week.)

Immediately at the start of the match, Santos Escobar tried to come to the ring, but was held back by referees and Adam Pearce. Theory turned right into a Cave In and nearly was beat, but got a foot on the ropes. Grimes hit a dive to the floor and slammed repeatedly into the barricade. Back inside, Grimes hit a high cross body and spinning Boss Man Slam for two. Grimes connected on his Collision Course, but as he went for a Cave In again, Theory dodged, hung up Grimes on the ropes and hit A-Town Down for the win. Post match, Escobar appeared and laid out Theory with the Phantom Driver.

-An Asuka training video is shown ahead of the Women’s Title three way and she talked about how she’s beaten both Belair & Flair in the past and has a plan for Summerslam before misting the camera.

**********

The Grayson Waller Effect with guests Bayley & Io Sky

Waller asked if Sky was going to cash in her Money in the Bank briefcase tomorrow night. Before Sky could answer, Bayley said all the idiots will have to wait for Sky’s decision. We hear laughing from Shotzi throughout the arena as Bayley got scared, but it was Waller who was behind it, cackling at Bayley’s reaction. Bayley said she’s not scared, as Shotzi’s music hit and Bayley didn’t fall for it. Only this time, the tank was driven out on the ramp and Sky ran up after her, but Shotzi was standing behind Bayley. Quickly realizing what was up, Bayley turned, was popped with a punch and Shotzi pulled out hair clippers, which actually had ridiculous sound effects piped in. Shotzi chased Bayley through the crowd as it was revealed Zelina Vega was driving the tank. This led to our next match after commercial break.

**********

Zelina Vega defeated Io Sky

The match was joined in progress, as both ladies ducked a series of clothesline attempts until they collided. Vega dished out ten corner punches and running clothesline, following up with a Meteora for two. Vega tried a Code Red, but Sky reversed into a double underhook back breaker and double knees in the corner. Sky was going to go for her moonsault, but Bayley & Shotzi spilled out from backstage, complete with dumb sound effects from the hair clippers again. Vega slammed a distracted Sky off the ropes and hit a Code Red for the win.

-Bianca Belair’s training package is shown talking about her previous title reign that ended due to Asuka. Belair said No Disqualifications, No Countouts, No Excuses, as she’ll remind Asuka & Flair why she is the EST and regain her Women’s Title.

**********

-Michael Cole tells us in 2 weeks in Toronto, we’ll celebrate 25 Years of Edge. Next week will see AJ Styles vs. Karrion Kross while Austin Theory defends the US Title against Santos Escobar.

Jey Uso defeated Solo Sikoa (w/Paul Heyman)

(This turned into a fun little main event, as I believe this was Sikoa’s only second pinfall loss. Uso looked strong heading into his main event with Reigns tomorrow, while also giving his brother a lot of offense here as well.)

Sikoa controlled the action early by utilizing the power game, clearing off the announce table, only for Uso to escape and hit a superkick. Uso connected on a dive that sent Sikoa crashing into the table that took us to commercial. When we returned, we saw Sikoa had taken control with a belly to belly suplex and nerve hold. Sikoa planted Uso with multiple Samoan Drops as Uso tried battling back, but could barely stand. Sikoa took way too long to follow up and missed a corner charge.

Uso connected on the Rock inspired right hands, but was leveled with a Sikoa lariat into the double down. Uso fought back with a high cross body for two, but as he went for a corner charge, Sikoa hit a spinning leg kick. Spinning Solo connected, but Uso ducked the Spike, hit a superkick, Spear and top rope splash for the win.

Post match, Sikoa attacked Uso from behind, got a chair, but Uso gained possession and unloaded shots to the back and side of the head. Uso stood tall on the announce table and Michael Cole questions whether Sikoa will be there for Tribal Combat tomorrow night.

Summerslam 8/5/23

· Roman Reigns vs. Jey Uso in Tribal Combat for the Undisputed WWE Universal Title and recognition of Tribal Chief

· Cody Rhodes vs. Brock Lesnar

· Seth Rollins vs. Finn Balor for the World Heavyweight Title

· Asuka vs. Bianca Belair vs. Charlotte Flair for the WWE Women’s Title

· Ricochet vs. Logan Paul

· Gunther vs. Drew McIntyre for the WWE Intercontinental Title

· Ronda Rousey vs. Shayna Baszler under MMA Rules

· 25 Man Slim Jim Battle Royal (confirmed names LA Knight, Sheamus, Tommaso Ciampa, Shinsuke Nakamura, Otis, Chad Gable, Riddle, AJ Styles, Karrion Kross, Grayson Waller, The Miz, Santos Escobar)

WWE SmackDown live results: United States Championship Invitational finals

Posted on July 28, 2023 by Colin McGuire

Two LWO members will face off tonight with a United States title shot up for grabs.

Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar will meet in the United States Championship Invitational Finals on tonight’s SmackDown from the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The winner becomes the number one contender to United States Champion Austin Theory.

Mysterio earned his way into the finals by defeating LA Knight, Cameron Grimes, and Sheamus in a fatal four-way match on last week’s SmackDown, while Escobar beat Grayson Waller, AJ Styles, and Butch on the July 14 edition to land his spot in the finals.

With SummerSlam now eight days away, the build to the pay-per-view will continue tonight. Roman Reigns and Jey Uso are set to appear in advance of their Tribal Combat match at the Saturday, August 5 pay-per-view. Reigns’ Undisputed WWE Universal Championship and his title of Tribal Chief will both be on the line at the PPV.

A match between Karl Anderson and Karrion Kross has also been announced for tonight. Our live coverage starts at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

**********

– Michael Cole welcomed everyone in to the show. Jey Uso was standing in the ring with a microphone.

The Jey Uso/Roman Reigns segment

Jey said he’s in New Orleans and Roman Reigns’s music hit. Reigns walked out with Paul Heyman and Solo Sikoa. It was seven minutes between when Roman’s music hit and he told the crowd to acknowledge him. Reigns told Jey when the Tribal Chief appears, the Tribal Chief opens the show. Reigns told Jey he made Jey the right hand man. Reigns also took credit for Jey having the Main Event Jey Uso name. Reigns asked Uso if he thought he was the Tribal Chief now. Jey said he never wanted any of that (even though he was wearing a shirt that read “The Real Chief). Jey said all he did was watch Roman’s back. Jey said he believed in Roman. Jey said he believed Roman could lead the family, but Roman broke the family and because of that Jey is going to do what he has to do.

Jey said everything was all Roman’s fault. Roman said Jey’s jealously was what made everything turn south. Roman called Jey selfish. Roman said Jey doesn’t get it and that Jey is going to be all alone. Roman said Jey screwed Jimmy and Solo loves and respects Roman more than he does Jey. Roman said, hypothetically speaking, what if Jey beats Roman. In that case, Jey would take the title, the lei and everything from Roman. At that point, Roman said he would not longer the Tribal Chief. Even so, Roman said he’ll always be Roman Reigns. Roman kept saying Jey can’t beat him. The two engaged in a stare down while the crowd chanted “Uso.”

Jey said he’s the only one who has beaten Roman because he’s already pinned him. Jey grabbed the back of Roman’s neck and said at SummerSlam, he’ll beat Roman again. Jey’s music hit and Jey left the ring to end the segment.

**********

– Backstage, Jey Uso ran into Grayson Waller, who asked Jey to come on the Grayson Waller Effect. Jey responded in kind my smacking Waller across the face.

Santos Escobar defeated Rey Mysterio [14:15]

Well, the match was pretty OK for what it was. The two worked hard and Escobar came away looking much more like a contender to beat Theory, if only because Escobar was given the bulk of the offense. At the end of the day, though, it felt like the match was just kind of there and the program between Escobar and Theory has little to no heat.

Escobar had control early, working Mysterio’s leg. Austin Theory was shown in the upper bowl watching the match with popcorn. Escobar turned his attention to Mysterio’s arm. Escobar kicked Mysterio’s leg and Mysterio slapped the hell out of Escobar. Escobar returned the favor. Mysterio set Escobar up for a 619, but Escobar rolled to the outside. From there, Mysterio hit a Senton onto Escobar before the show went to break.

When the show returned, Mysterio landed an arm-drag back inside the ring. Mysterio went to the top and landed a Senton. Mysterio went for a cover and got a two count out of it. Escobar responded with a series of leaping elbows before hitting an enzigouri. Escobar hit a leg-drop for a two-count. Mysterio rolled up Escobar for a two-count. Mysterio ran at Escobar, who caught him with a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker. Mysterio was on Escobar’s shoulders and the two made their way outside in the same position. Ultimately, Mysterio went for a baseball slide and Escobar moved. Escobar followed that up with a tope suicida as the show went to another commercial break.

Back from break, a doctor was working on Mysterio. The commentary team sold the idea that Mysterio hit his head on the ground after Escobar hit that suicida. As a result, the referee called the match off, saying Mysterio could no longer compete. Because of that, Escobar was named the winner of the match.

**********

– Backstage, Bianca Belair was being interviewed, but she was interrupted by Chelsea Green and Sonya Deville. The two mocked Belair for not being a champion. Green mocked Charlotte. Belair told Green to not be disrespectful. Charlotte showed up and called Green and Deville bullies. From there, Charlotte suggested a match featuring Charlotte/Bianca vs. Green/Deville.

**********

– Hit Row was in the ring and almost instantly, LA Knight interrupted them. Knight called Top Dolla Uncle Phil. Knight recalled Dolla saying NOLA is corny. Knight called B-Fab corny. Knight led the crowd in his catchphrase.

LA Knight defeated Ashante Thee Adonis [1:30]

Pretty basic stuff here. The only disappointment was that I thought we’d get a hint for what Knight might do at SummerSlam, but it was not to be.

Ashante took control early, but the crowd went nuts for Knight. Dolla landed a cheap shot on Knight. Before long, Knight hit a neck-breaker and a power-slam before playing to the crowd. Knight landed his elbow and Blunt Force Trauma for the win.

**********

– Jey Uso was backstage and Adam Pearce talked to him. Pearce made a match between Waller and Uso for later.

– Backstage, the Street Profits were hanging out with Bobby Lashley, who told the Profits they had to lose the sweats. Lashley brought in a new wardrobe for the team to pick from. We went back to the ring, where Charlotte stood.

Charlotte Flair & Bianca Belair defeated Chelsea Green and Sonya Deville in a non-title match [10:27]

That went about as expected as it could go. They could have figured out a way to turn up the heat a little more on Charlotte and Belair, but it was what it was. I’m not a fan of having the new tag champs take a loss this early in their reign – you’re telling me that as long as a couple top-tier stars decide to team up for a night, they can beat the supposed best team in the company on a whim? – but the point here was to further the tension between the two babyfaces in the SummerSlam match. Mission accomplished.

Belair and Green started the match. Belair worked a side head-lock and then landed a shoulder-block to take Green down. Charlotte got a blind tag, which annoyed Belair. Charlotte slammed Green’s head into the mat repeatedly. Belair tagged in and slammed Green, who crawled over to tag Deville … who was then slammed by Belair. Soon thereafter, Belair landed a dropkick on Deville. Deville came back with a boot to the face of Belair and got a two-count out of it. From there, the show went to a commercial break.

As the show returned, Green and Deville had control. That changed when Belair landed a double suplex on both Green and Deville. Charlotte received the hot tag and came off the top for a double cross-body. Charlotte hit a series of chops on Green. Charlotte landed a fallaway slam on Green, which was followed up with a clothesline and a two-count. Green tagged in Deville, who was rolled up by Charlotte for a two-count. Charlotte hit a fallaway slam on Deville and went for the Figure Eight, but Deville worked out of it.

Belair tagged herself in and landed a bunch of dropkicks on Deville. Green got in a blind tag and cut Belair off and went for the Un-Pretty-Her, but Charlotte got in the way. Charlotte tagged herself in while Belair was going for the KOD. Charlotte hit a boot to Green’s head and pinned Green for the win – only after Charlotte and Belair argued.

**********

– The show cut backstage, where Bayley and IYO SKY were talking. Bayley had a message from Shotzi in her backpack and the two were going to leave until Asuka showed up and stopped them. Asuka said she’s going to wrestle two of the best ever at SummerSlam in Charlotte and Belair. Asuka mocked SKY for potentially cashing in her MITB briefcase. SKY said she will leave SummerSlam as the WWE women’s champ.

– Adam Pearce was backstage talking on the phone when he was interrupted by LA Knight, who talked about a Battle Royal at SummerSlam. Sheamus cut Knight off and Sheamus was surrounded by the Brutes. Sheamus did the “Banger after banger …” catchphrase. Pearce put Sheamus and Knight in the battle royal and said on next week’s SmackDown, Sheamus and Knight will have a one on one match.

**********

Karrion Kross defeated Karl Anderson [2:08]

Quick and painless (unless if you’re Anderson, perhaps). Kudos to Kross for giving Anderson so much offense for the first 90 seconds of the match until Scarlett interfered. In a lot of ways, it feels like a nothing-happening program, but I’m intrigued to see how they blow it off. A mixed tag feels like it’ll be somewhere on the way to it.

Anderson attacked Kross to start the match. Anderson landed a leaping neck-breaker for a two-count. Scarlett distracted Anderson and Kross took advantage of that by hitting a series of elbows. Kross hit a Saito Suplex. Kross hit his new finisher for the win.

After the match, Kross choked Anderson out until AJ Styles and Michin ran down for the save. The show went to a back room, where Heyman, Reigns and Sikoa sat as they watched Jey Uso make his entrance.

**********

Jey Uso defeated Grayson Waller [11:12]

Boy, the powers that be in WWE sure do love themselves some Grayson Waller. No shade or hate; just an observation. Waller looked good in defeat and this was a convenient way to further the Bloodline saga. Roman standing tall at the end of the show was a nice touch. The actual show-closing match was pretty good, considering how long Waller’s been out with an injury. Jey brought the best out of him and Waller responded in kind. In all, it was television main event worthy.

Waller had control early until Uso fought back with a leaping elbow. Waller regained the edge with a boot to the face, but Uso slammed Waller before landing a kick to Waller’s throat. Waller fired up and raked Uso’s face. Uso stood up and hit an enzigouri. As Uso was playing to the crowd, Roman Reigns’s music hit and Reigns came to ringside flanked by Solo Sikoa and Paul Heyman. Waller took advantage of it with a knee to Uso’s head as the show went to its final commercial break.

The show returned and Waller was working a side head-lock on Uso. Jey fought his way out of it and the two battled on the second rope. Waller dropped Uso with a right hand and followed that up with an elbow for a two-count. Waller went for a kick, but Jey ducked and lifted Waller, but Waller worked out of it and hit a spine-buster. Waller mocked the Rock’s People’s Elbow and put his own spin on it … but Uso moved and fired up.

Uso went for a hip attack, but Waller moved. From there, Waller ran into a super-kick from Uso. Jey stared Roman down and landed a spear on Waller. Uso went to the top rope hit an Uso Splash on Waller for the win.

After the match, Sikoa attacked Uso from behind. Sikoa lifted Uso and went for the Spike, but Jey ducked it and hit a super-kick. Roman ran into the ring and Jey landed a spear on Roman. Jey went to the top, but Sikoa pushed Jey off. Sikoa planted Uso and grabbed a hold of Jey. Roman speared Jey. Roman did it again. Roman went to the second rope and posed to end the show.

WWE SmackDown live results: Roman Reigns & Jey Uso outline Rules of Engagement

Posted on July 21, 2023 by Colin McGuire

After an explosive Tribal Court two weeks ago, Roman Reigns returns to WWE SmackDown tonight from Orlando, Florida’s Amway Arena.

This week’s program will air on FS1 in its normal time slot instead of Fox due to the women’s World Cup.

Reigns is set to discuss his Rules of Engagement with former Bloodline member Jey Uso whose brother Jimmy was injured by Reigns and Solo Sikoa two weeks ago. Reigns vs. Jey for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship should be made official for SummerSlam tonight.

The second of two United States Championship Invitational matches will take place with this one featuring Rey Mysterio vs. Sheamus vs. Cameron Grimes vs. LA Knight. Tonight’s winner will face Santos Escobar, winner of the first-such match last week, next week for a future shot at the United States title.

We now know that Asuka will defend her WWE Women’s Championship against Charlotte Flair and Bianca Belair in a triple threat match at SummerSlam. Tonight, Charlotte is taking on Ms. Money in the Bank IYO SKY.

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

**********

– The show opened with a video recapping the Jey Uso/Paul Heyman/Solo Sikoa developments from last week. After the video, footage of Roman Reigns entering the building backstage was shown.

Rey Mysterio Jr. defeated LA Knight, Cameron Grimes & Sheamus [18:37]

This was a fun opening match. The guys worked hard and man, for the 492nd week in a row, it’s worth noting how over LA Knight is with these live crowds. But back to the match. The top rope spots felt predictable and formulaic after a while because the wrestlers seemed to go back to them every three minutes. That first one, whatever it was, looked like a mess going into that first commercial break, but everyone seemed to escape it unscathed. Either way, I’m looking forward to seeing how they play Escobar vs. Mysterio next week. It should be interesting.

LA Knight cut a promo on the way to the ring during his entrance. The four brawled to open the match. Knight stood tall quickly as the other three were sent to the outside. The show then cut to commercial. When the show returned, Sheamus had the upper hand and was working over Knight. Mysterio and Grimes worked on the outside. Cheamus chopped the hell out of Knight and lifted Knight and hit a rolling Senton. Sheamus sent Knight to the apron and Grimes rolled up Sheamus for a one count.

Grimes and Knight wound up on the outside, but as they got onto the apron, Sheamus cut them off and Mysterio and Sheamus hit 10 Bells on Grimes and Knight respectively. Sheamus and Mysterio shook hands and Rey went for a 619, but Sheamus cut Mysterio off with an Irish Curse backbreaker. Sheamus lifted Mysterio, but Grimes came off the top to take both out. Grimes hit a series of kicks on both Sheamus and Mysterio. Grimes slammed Mysterio and went for a cover, but Sheamus broke it up. Sheamus clotheslined Grimes and hit an Irish Curse on Grimes. Knight was thrown outside and he fought with Sheamus, who was dropped on the apron.

Mysterio went to the top, but Knight cut him off. There was an awkward spot between all four guys where they all came off the top and landed on Grimes. The show went to another break after that. Once the show returned, Mysterio and Grimes were in the ring and that changed when they two fought to the outside. Mysterio tried to throw Grimes into Austin Theory, who was at ringside, but Theory moved. Sheamus came off the top to take out Grimes and Mysterio. Back in the ring, Sheamus went to the top and landed a clothesline on Knight. Sheamus hit White Noise on Knight for a two-count.

Sheamus played to the crowd and went to kick Knight, but Knight caught him, slammed him, and got a two-count out of it. Sheamus hit a running knee on Grimes and Knight followed that up with a slam, but Mysterio broke up a pin attempt. Mysterio went to the top, but Grimes cut him off. Sheamus joined the fun and lifted Grimes on his shoulders. Mysterio came off the top and set Sheamus and Grimes up for a 619. Mysterio covered Grimes, but Theory broke up the pin because of the no DQ clause. Santos Escobar ran to ringside and brawled with Theory into the crowd. Knight was left in the ring with Grimes. The Mysterio and Grimes returned to the ring and after everyone traded signature moves, Mysterio hit a hurricanrana on Grimes for the win.

**********

– Austin Theory was shown walking backstage. Austin ran into Adam Pearce and demanded a match against Santos Escobar tonight. Pearce made the match, though it was set as a non-title match.

– A video recapping the Cody/Brock stuff from Raw aired.

Charlotte defeated IYO SKY [14:08]

Wow, this one was weird. A lot of clunky spots and frankly, I expected better from both women. They picked things up as the match worked its way into the next gear, but the crowd felt flat through all of it. The near-falls should have felt more intense and the false finishes toward the end never quite clicked. I’m happy to see WWE devote nearly 15 minutes to a women’s match on SmackDown – and these two were pretty much the right women to do it with – but this felt off from the jump, which ultimately left a disappointing taste in my mouth.

The two locked up to begin the match. The two did their own version of cartwheels and flips. SKY fired up, but Charlotte cut her off and came off the top for a cross-body. Charlotte lifted SKY, but SKY worked out of it and landed a dropkick to Charlotte’s leg. SKY hit a shotgun dropkick for a two-count. The action spilled outside as the show went to another commercial break.

Back to break, Charlotte was jawing at Bayley, who was sitting in on commentary. Back in the ring, Charlotte went for a knee, but SKY moved and landed a running double-knees for a two-count. SKY worked a chin-lock. Charlotte worked out of it with a back-drop. Charlotte hit a fallaway slam and fired up. Charlotte landed a clothesline for a two-count. The two went to the top and Bayley got up from commentary to distract Charlotte. As a result, SKY landed a power-bomb for a two-count. A shotzi video showed up on the tron and Bayley looked concerned. Bayley walked away from ringside and in the meantime, SKY went to the top, but Charlotte pulled SKY off. SKY tried again, but missed a moonsault.

Charlotte went to the top and tried a moonsault of her own, but SKY got her foot up. The two traded roll-up attempts to no avail. SKY went back to the top and missed a missile dropkick. Charlotte, as a result, worked a Boston Crab. SKY countered into a roll-up for a two-count. Sky pounded on Charlotte, but then Charlotte landed a spear for a good near-fall. Charlotte went for a German Suplex, but SKY rolled through and hit a double-stomp on Charlotte. The two made their way to the top rope. After trading roll-up attempts again, Charlotte hit Natural Selection for the win. Immediately after the bell rang, Asuka ran in and attacked Charlotte.

**********

– Dominik Mysterio was interviewed backstage. While he was talking, Butch interrupted him and challenged Dom for the title tonight. Shawn Michaels showed up and made the match official.

– Bayley and SKY were shown backstage and Bayley’s suitcase had a picture of Bayley stabbed through the front with scissors. Bayley told IYO they had to leave immediately.

Santos Escobar defeated Austin Theory [10:39]

From the second that Theory insisted this would be a non-title match, you had to know how this thing would end up. Good for Escobar, though, getting a high-profile win, which doesn’t happen often for him. Theory’s matches just aren’t ever that good. That isn’t meant with any mean intentions, but man. There’s just something about his work that feels like trying to start a fire with a piece of wet cardboard. So, as far as Theory matches go, this one was fine enough. Nothing memorable. But nothing offensively bad.

Escobar had control early and landed a dropkick. Theory fought back and hit a suplex for a one-count. Theory landed a DDT for a two-count. Escobar fired up and hit a series of strikes on Theory. Escobar clotheslined Theory over the top rope. Theory called for a timeout on the outside as the show went to break. When the show returned, Theory hit a backbreaker for a two-count. Theory went to the apron and went for a suplex, but Escobar countered with an enziguri. Escobar hit a tope suicida onto Theory, who fell onto the commentary table.

Back in the ring, Escobar hit a series of elbows. Escobar went to the top and landed a cross-body for a two-count. Escobar lifted Theory, but Theory got out of it by hitting Escobar’s knee. Theory landed a modified brainbuster on Escobar for a two-count. Theory went for A-Town Down, but Escobar fought back with a boot to the face. Theory went to the top and Escobar responded by hitting a hurricanrana from the top. Escobar then landed the Phantom Driver for the win.

**********

– Bobby Lashley was shown backstage, where Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams approached him … but the show cut away and back to the ring for Dominik Mysterio’s entrance.

Dominik Mysterio defeated Butch [7:53]

This was just kind of there. It wouldn’t have made much sense to put the NXT North American title on Dom, just to have him lose it to a non-NXT wrestler three days later, so there’s that. Still, nobody can argue how much Dominik is over as a heel and the Dom/Ripley act sure does get people going. That says nothing of Dom’s in-ring ability which is far from notable, but this is sports entertainment, remember. The wrestling itself, in a lot of ways, is secondary. So, while it’s not like anyone should have expected a five-star match, the bout worked for what it was.

The two locked up to start the match. Butch did the finger spot early in the match. Butch stomped on Dominik’s shoulder and took Dominik to the ground again before sinking in an arm-bar. Dominik made it to the ropes for a break and Rhea Ripley gave Dominik a chain. Ridge Holland ran down to take the chain away from Dominik and the show went to a commercial. When the show returned, Dominik had the advantage and worked a chin-lock. Pretty Deadly made their way to the ring with Elton Prince in a wheelchair.

Dominik toyed with Butch, which made Butch mad and Butch hit a series of kicks to Dominik’s head. Butch landed a right hand and a running kick. Dominik set up for a 619, but Butch countered. Kit Wilson hit Holland on the outside and Butch went to the outside of the ring to even the odds. Wilson ran to the back and left Holland and Butch alone with Prince, who also ran to the back. With Butch on the apron, Rhea hit a chop-block and Dominik ran Butch into the ring pole, which was enough to get him the win.

**********

– For next week, Michael Cole announced that Karl Anderson will face off against Karrion Kross. Rey Mysterio will go up against Santos Escobar for a shot at the U.S. title.

The Roman Reigns/Jey Uso segment

Roman asked Orlando to acknowledge him and the crowd obliged. Roman sat in a chair and smiled. Jey sat in another chair, looking away from him. Roman asked Jey if he still wanted to do it. Jey said he still wants to do it. Jey said Roman is making him do this. Jey said he has to get Roman because Jimmy is in the hospital. Roman said Jey doesn’t get it. Roman called Jey a soldier, a pawn in the game. Roman signed a contract. Jey ripped up the contract.

Jey said they already have a contract that’s in blood. Jey said it’s tribal combat now. Roman asked Jey if the elders knew about it and Jey said it was their idea. Jey said he wants to use a bunch of weapons on Roman. Roman told Jey to shut his mouth. Roman said he has run the business for almost a decade and set his title on the table in the ring. Roman said “Let’s go.” Jey reiterated that it’s tribal combat. Roman stood up. Roman and Jey put their heads together and shook hands. Roman went to leave the ring and Solo went for the spike on Jey, but Roman stopped him. Jey super-kicked Solo. Roman stared at Jey and left the ring. Jey and Roman stared at each other from afar. Michael Cole announced that Jey and Roman will face off at SummerSlam for the Undisputed Universal Championship.

WWE SmackDown live results: Asuka vs. Bianca Belair Women’s title match

Posted on July 14, 2023 by Colin McGuire

After weeks of asking for a match against Asuka for the WWE Women’s Championship, Bianca Belair will get her shot on tonight’s SmackDown from the PNC Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina.

The last time Asuka defended her title was against Charlotte Flair on SmackDown two weeks ago. Belair caused that match to end in a no contest.

Tonight will also feature the fallout of last week’s Trial of Roman Reigns. We’ll see if Reigns provides an answer to Jey Uso’s challenge for an Undisputed WWE Universal Championship match.

WWE’s United States Championship Invitational will begin with a fatal four-way match involving AJ Styles, Santos Escobar, Butch, and Grayson Waller. Another four-way match is scheduled to take place on SmackDown next week. The winners of the four-way bouts will advance to face each other for the right to become the next challenger for Austin Theory’s United States title.

Plus, Sheamus & Ridge Holland face Pretty Deadly in tag team action. Our live coverage starts at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

**********

– The show began with Jey Uso walking backstage as Michael Cole voiced over that Jey is on a warpath. We went to the ring, where Bianca Belair’s music hit.

The Bianca Belair/Charlotte segment

The crowd chanted “EST!” before Belair began to talk. Belair said it’s been hard to be patient because she has wanted a rematch with Asuka so badly. Belair mentioned all the hoops she had to go through to get her rematch. Belair said tonight will be her night. Belair said she’s going to show Asuka that patience is a virtue. Belair said she will strut out of there as the new WWE Women’s Champion, but before she could finish her sentence, Charlotte’s music hit.

After Charlotte got in the ring, the crowed graced her with a million “Woooos!” Charlotte said Belair fired Charlotte up and then said Charlotte said she believes Belair will win later tonight and she’s manifesting a win in Flair Country. Charlotte said when Belair wins, she wants to makes sure Belair knows that Charlotte is next in line. The crowd was excited at the thought and Belair said she wouldn’t jinx herself, but Belair said there would be nothing better than Charlotte vs. Belair at SummerSlam for the WWE Women’s Championship. Belair said she’s ready for Asuka before Belair and Charlotte shook hands, solidifying the potential match between Charlotte and Belair next month. Charlotte let out a “Wooooo!” to end the segment.

**********

– The Brawling Brutes were shown backstage. Sheamus hyped up Butch competing in the four-way for a shot at the U.S. Title. Ridge Holland said tonight, Pretty Deadly is going to be eaten alive by he and Sheamus. We went back to the ring, where the Brutes made their entrance.

Pretty Deadly [Elton Prince & Kit Wilson] defeated the Brawling Brutes [Sheamus & Ridge Holland] [10:27]

You just knew that somehow, some way, Pretty Deadly would get the win here. Still, the Brutes looked strong and outside of a commercial break that allowed Pretty Deadly to take control, Sheamus and Holland got the bulk of the offense. Pretty Deadly is growing on me on the main roster. I enjoyed the bit on NXT for what it was, but it’s beginning to translate well on SmackDown. If nothing else, they are very good pest heels and seeing them get cheap wins only helps that perception. Both teams worked hard here and all told, it was a good opening match – especially at a time when SmackDown lately has been very talk-heavy. In a lot of ways, this was refreshing.

Sheamus and Prince began the match. Prince retreated to the outside. As a result, Sheamus pulled Wilson into the ring and beat him up. Prince returned to the ring and went for a hip-toss, but Sheamus blocked it and hit a clothesline. Holland tagged in and worked Prince over with a headbutt and some punches. Holland lifted Prince, but Prince wiggled out of it and chop-blocked Holland to give his team control. Wilson tagged in and the Pretty Deadly guys double-teamed Holland until Holland lifted and back-dropped both of them.

Sheamus tagged in and Sheamus dumped Wilson over the top. Sheamus worked 10 Bells on Wilson and Holland worked a variation of it on Prince until the show went to a commercial break. When the show returned, Prince was stomping on Sheamus. Wilson tagged in and kept momentum up with some elbows to Sheamus’s chest. Wilson landed a running uppercut and tagged in Prince. Wilson tagged in quickly and kicked Sheamus in the face. Sheamus lifted Wilson on his shoulders and slammed him, but when Sheamus went for the tag, Prince ran around the corner and pulled Holland off the apron.

Wilson utilized Prince’s help and took Sheamus down. Wilson went to the top, but jumped into a knee from Sheamus. As a result, Sheamus finally got the hot tag to Holland, who landed a wild back-body drop on Prince. Holland took out both members of Pretty Deadly and fired up before hitting a German Suplex on Prince, who landed on Wilson. Holland landed a Fisherman’s Buster on Prince for a two-count. Pretty Deadly went to the outside and Sheamus came off the top onto both Pretty Deadly members. Back in the ring, Holland hit a side-slam on Prince for a two-count. Prince took a top turnbuckle padding off and ran Holland into it. Prince then hit a leg drop from the top for the 1-2-3.

**********

– Grayson Waller was interviewed backstage by Cathy Kelly. Waller recalled how he swam against Edge last week. Waller talked about how The Rock loves him. Waller then said he’s going to face three of the best SmackDown has to offer later and will have his hand raised in victory. Waller closed the interview by saying everything will happen … “if you smell what he’s cooking.”

– A video recapping last week’s Tribal Court segment aired. Footage from Money In The Bank was part of it. Michael Cole announced that Jimmy Uso is injured and will be out for the “foreseeable future.” Cole said today marks the 1,048 day as champion.

– Backstage, Charlotte ran into Adam Pearce and Charlotte told Pearce she’s leaving the arena because she feels good about the match later. Bayley and IYO SKY came into the frame and said Charlotte isn’t the only one who feels good as they pounded on SKY’s MITB briefcase. Charlotte, who was still around, said on second thought, she’s going to stick around.

**********

Bayley defeated Zelina Vega [2:02]

This was fine for what it was, but nobody thought this was going more than three minutes – which was sad because those two could have had a pretty good match if they were just given a little bit of time. The Shotzi post-match angle was interesting and I can’t say I’m not interested to see where this Shotzi/Bayley program goes. Good for Shotzi for getting some booking love.

Bayley jumpstarted the match and ran Vega to the outside, where she worked over Vega on the commentary table. The two fought on the apron and Vega fought for control, rolling Bayley inside the ring and hitting a Meteora for a two-count. Vega landed a swinging neck-breaker for a two-count. Bayley fought back and grabbed Vega’s flip-fop. Bayley ran into a Codebreaker and Vegan drove Bayley out of the ring with the flip-flop. Instantly, Bayley got back into the ring and hit the Rose Plant for the win.

After the match, a video from Shotzi appeared on the big screen. Shotzi said Bayley probably thinks she has control over Shotzi. Shotzi grabbed a razor and said she’s in control. Shotzi shaved her head and laughed uncontrollably. Shotzi put the hair in her mouth. Bayley looked a little concerned.

**********

The Jey Uso/Bloodline segment

Jey stood in the ring for a bit before saying anything. Jey said growing up, he and Jimmy were inseparable. The crowd gave him the “What?” treatment, but everyone seemed to be in on it and it felt more fun than patronizing. Jey said if Jimmy is sad, he’s sad and so on and so forth. It ended with Jey saying if Jimmy is hurt, Jey is hurt, too. Jey said he’s going to disrespect Roman Reigns and he’s going to spank Solo Sikoa. Jey said they’re looking at the real head of the table and his name is Main Event Jey Uso. The crowd cheered until they heard Paul Heyman’s voice.

Heyman introduced himself and said Sikoa is the enforcer of the Bloodline as they both walked toward the ring. Heyman said Sikoa was there to enforce peace. Heyman said that next week, Jey and Roman will go face to face and discuss the rules of engagement. Heyman followed that up by saying tonight, they just wanted to have a chat about things. Heyman said Jey is sounding more and more like a tribal chief every single day. Heyman said Sikoa is right in that Jey has no self-awareness. Heyman said Jey doesn’t have the conscience needed to be a right-hand man. Heyman said what happened to Jimmy is all Jey’s fault.

Heyman said Jey was the one who confronted Roman Reigns and Jey was the one who wanted to be the leader. Heyman spoke to Jimmy into the camera and said the only reason Jimmy is in the hospital is because of Jey Uso. Heyman said Jey’s father and mother will never forgive Jey for what he did to Jimmy. Heyman said both he and Reigns will never forgive Jey. Sikoa put his hand otu for the microphone. Heyman put it in Sikoa’s hand. Sikoa said what happened to Jimmy is all on Jey. Sikoa said he’ll never forgive Jey and threw down the mic.

Jey threw an elbow at Sikoa and eventually landed a super-kick on Sikoa, which left Jey alone with Heyman in the ring. The crowd rose up for the altercation. Before Jey could get his hands on Heyman, Sikoa returned to the ring and beat Jey down. Sikoa went for the Samoan Spike, but Jey countered and worked a ground-and-pound on Sikoa before actually hitting a super-kick on Heyman. Jey landed a suicida on Sikoa, who was on the outside. The crowd went nuts. Left in the ring was Jey, Heyman and a chair. Heyman begged Jey not to do anything. Jey picked up the chair, but Sikoa ran in and Jey hit Sikoa with the chair instead of Heyman. Sikoa rolled to the outside and he, along with Heyman, left to go to the back.

**********

Santos Escobar defeated AJ Styles, Butch and Grayson Waller [12:35]

It depends on the style you like, and I’ll fully admit that WWE rolls by its own rules, but for a WWE four-way, this was really very good. Waller played his part almost perfectly as the chicken-s!#$ heel who tried as hard as he could to take advantage of whatever advantageous situation presented itself, Styles was very good as The Guy Who Was The Favorite To Win, Butch was Butch and Escobar was forgotten. Naturally, then, Escobar winning was a curious call, but I’m all in if this means we can get the guy going on the main roster. The LWO has worked well enough, but it feels like we’re coming up on the end of the line and if this win means Escobar will have a shot at being a solo player, I’m all for it. I can do without the stupid big screen distraction finish, but outside of that, this was very good.

Austin Theory sat in on commentary. Waller started by punching Butch and rolled to the outside to jaw at Theory. Butch went after Waller. Inside the ring, Escobar worked over Styles with some chops until Styles put Escobar over the top to the outside. Butch and Styles squared off in the ring and traded pin attempts until Waller went for a double pin on them both, but only got a two-count. Styles and Butch fought until Escobar came off the top and took them both out. Waller took Escobar down, but Escobar came back with a boot to the face. Waller came back and ran into a German Suplex from Butch. Everybody exchanged shots on each other until everyone was down and the show went to break.

Back from break, Butch was doing the finger spot on Waller. Waller dumped Butch to the outside in response and Styles hit a sliding forearm on Waller. Styles hit a knee to the back of Waller’s neck and went for a pin but Butch broke it up. Escobar came back into the fold and flipped Butch onto Styles, who pinned Butch for a two-count. Escobar came right back and took down Styles before going to the top rope. Waller cut Escobar off and Butch hit Waller with an enziguri. Styles woke up, too, and all four guys were in a corner. Ultimately, Escobar landed a sunset flip, triple-power-bomb on the other three from the top rope.

Escobar hit knees on everyone else after they got to their feet. Escobar landed a Phantom Driver on Waller for a two-count. Waller rolled to the outside and the three babyfaces stood in the ring, trading strikes. Cole said the crowd was chanting “This is awesome,” but if they were, boy, that didn’t come up well on TV. Eventually, Waller lifted Butch, but Butch worked out of it and kicked the back of Waller. Waller threw Butch to the outside, but was ultimately the recipient of a moonsault from Butch. Escobar followed that up with a splash, but quickly, Styles set Butch up for a Styles Clash inside the ring. On the big screen, Karrion Kross appeared to stop Styles. Styles ran to the back and Waller hit a rolling stunner on Butch, but immediately after that, Escobar came off the top to hit a splash on Waller and pinned him.

**********

– Back from break, Styles was backstage talking to The OC, saying Kross was right and their feud wasn’t over. The show then cut to the Street Profits, who were standing next to a limo. Wouldn’t you know it: Bobby Lashley stepped out of the limo and embraced the Profits. The Profits got into the limo and Lashley left with them.

– Rey Mysterio cut a remote promo, ostensibly announcing himself as a participant in next week’s four-way for the other half of the U.S. title invitational. Cameron Grimes cut a similar promo and said he was going to the moon. Sheamus popped up and did the same.

– La Knight’s music hit back in the arena and the crowd went bonkers (I mean, come on, WWE. I know you’re hearing this week after week). Knight stopped before talking and the crowd chanted his name. Knight said all of a sudden LA Knight’s everywhere. Knight said he’s the best decision WWE ever made. Knight said the worst decision it made was to make a U.S. title invitational. Knight said he’s coming for that title. Knight said one way or another, they’re going to call him a champ someday. The crowd was all too happy to agree. We’re going to get Mysterio vs. Sheamus vs. Knight vs. Grimes next week as the other half of the US title invitational.

**********

Asuka defeated Bianca Belair via DQ [9:01]

If you thought we were getting a clean finish here, I have some beachfront property in Iowa that I’d love to sell you. Still, the match was all right for what it was. Belair and Asuka only seem to be getting better together and I’m interested to see if we’re headed more toward a four-way than a three-way at SummerSlam. Bayley and SKY are laying it on thick and we are less than a month away. Time will tell. I’m all for the women being put in the highest profile spots SmackDown has; I’d just love it if the booking was better. Good for Belair and Asuka for working hard; this just could have been so much more.

Bayley was shown with IYO SKY as two people who bought a ticket before the match began. Belair had the upper hand early. SKY and Bayley yelled at the two from the front row. Asuka tripped Belair to gain back control. Belair ultimately struck back and the two were down on the mat. In the meantime, Charlotte presented a ticket for the show, too, and sat at ringside as the show went to its final commercial.

The show returned and Belair had control, hitting a suplex and a standing moonsault for a two-count. With the two on the top, Asuka ultimately hit a shotgun dropkick from the top for a two-count. Asuka ran at Belair and Belair moved, eventually landing a spine-buster for a two-count. Asuka went for the Asuka Lock, but Belair rolled through and got a two-count out of it. Belair was on the apron, but Belair lifted Asuka and hit a KOD on Asuka on the commentary table.

Bayley and SKY and Charlotte hopped the barricade. Charlotte took out Bayley and SKY ran Charlotte into the ring post. Charlotte then speared Belair, which resulted in a DQ win for Asuka. SKY hit Charlotte in the head with her MITB briefcase. Bayley and SKY tried to cash in, but Asuka hit Bayley with the mist to stop all of it, the cash in didn’t happen and Asuka walked up the ramp. The show ended with all the women looking frustrated as Asuka smiled her way away.

WWE SmackDown live results: The Trial of Roman Reigns

Posted on July 7, 2023 by Bryan Rose

Roman Reigns is going on trial on tonight’s episode of SmackDown from Madison Square Garden in New York City.

It will mark the first time Reigns has appeared since his loss at Money in the Bank. At the pay-per-view, The Usos defeated Reigns & Solo Sikoa when Jey Uso pinned Reigns. It was the first pinfall loss Reigns has taken since December 2019.

The Usos are putting Reigns on trial in tonight’s Tribal Court segment. It may set up Jey challenging for Reigns’ Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at SummerSlam. The PPV is being held in Detroit on August 5. No matches have been made official yet.

Edge makes his return to WWE television tonight, appearing as a guest on The Grayson Waller Effect. The United States title will also be on the line as Austin Theory defends against Sheamus.

Plus, a grudge match between AJ Styles and Karrion Kross has been announced for tonight. Our live coverage starts at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

*******

The Trial of Roman Reigns

The Usos came out to start the show. Referring to Roman Reigns, The Usos said people told them he couldn’t be beat, and he was unbeatable. Then look at what happened at Money in the Bank.

Paul Heyman interrupted with Solo Sikoa. He said he would serve as defense counsel for Reigns. The Usos attempted to interrupt Heyman, but Heyman cut them off and told them only one person will tell him to stop talking. Sikoa grabbed Heyman’s microphone and threw it to the floor.

Reigns’ music then hit as he made his very long entrance, so long it went to commercial. It seems the trial of Roman Reigns is starting now.

After fans chanted he got pinned, Reigns admitted that he did get pinned, but he is still the tribal chief. Reigns said he has trouble understanding why he’s here tonight because since neither Uso is the tribal chief, they do not have the authority to put him on trial. He questioned who did.

The Usos ignored Reigns and instead introduced exhibit A, showing a montage of clips in which Reigns was shown berating, manipulating, humiliating, and attacking The Usos and Heyman. Despite the footage, Reigns said that is not who he was, that is what he was forced to be. You think I wanted to do all that? He said he did it for The Usos and Heyman. He said he main evented WrestleMania before the Bloodline, he bent his moral compass for the Bloodline and the representation of his family. He said his daughters were in the back not knowing who he was because of him.

He said he has five children in his household, do you think he needs to take theirs too? He doesn’t need this anymore, the money, the power. Reigns said he was done with all of it. He and Jey had a staredown before Reigns took off his lei and put it on Jey. He took off the WWE Universal Championship and bowed down in front of Jey, crying.

Jey attempted to console Reigns, but that was when Reigns sprung into action, low blowing Jey. Jimmy started to attack Reigns, but Solo stopped him. Solo then looked at the lei on the floor as Jimmy started to charge at Reigns. Sikoa laid Jimmy out with the spike and grabbed the lei. They were heavily teasing Sikoa was conflicted about what to do. Jey recovered and went after Reigns but Solo took him out. Reigns recovered and laid out Jimmy.

Solo tied up Jey across the ropes as Reigns berated him, telling him he’d never be the tribal chief. He blasted Jimmy with the WWE title and repeatedly attacked him, forcing Jey to watch. Reigns pummeled Jimmy with stair shots until Jey broke free, attacking Reigns. Solo laid him out with the spike. Reigns buried Jey with chairs as Solo laid out Jimmy with a splash, sending him through the announcer’s table. The segment ended with Reigns posing with the championship.

This segment took up the first 37 minutes of the show and was excellent in setting up what will likely be Jey Uso vs. Roman Reigns at SummerSlam.

After commercial, Jimmy was shown being stretchered into an ambulance, with Jey choosing to ride with Jimmy to the hospital.

Austin Theory defeated Sheamus to retain the WWE United States title

It was fine while it lasted, but a lot of it felt like it took place during the two commercial breaks and the finish was rather lame.

The match went about two minutes before going to commercial. When SmackDown returned, Theory was in control but Sheamus cut him off and hit a knee from the top rope for a two count. Sheamus cut off Theory as he was going to the top rope, with Sheamus meeting him there and going for white noise. Theory cut him off and hit a spinning side slam for a nearfall.

Back from another commercial, Sheamus was in control and went for the Celtic Cross. Theory cut him off but Sheamus hit a spinebuster and applied the cloverleaf. Pretty Deadly then ran down as Sheamus started attacking Elton Prince. Theory then hit a dropkick as the Brawling Brutes came out and took out Prince. Sheamus targeted Kit Wilson, who was on the apron. That allowed Theory to roll up Sheamus, grabbing the tights for the win.

They showed a video package of WWE events held at MSG including the first WrestleMania, SummerSlam 1988, the episode of Raw featuring Triple H’s return from injury in 2002, and more.

The Grayson Waller Effect with Edge

Waller says there’ve been a lot of great moments at Madison Square Garden, but not as his as the announcement his guest has tonight. He introduced Edge.

Edge started to put over the arena when Waller cut him off and told him about the big announcement. Edge didn’t seem to know what he’s talking about. Waller put his career over but asked why he had come back. Edge said it was because of the fans.

Edge talked about how his first premium live event was at SummerSlam 1998, and in New York respect is hard won. He has always been a hard worker and a dreamer and still is to this day. Waller said Edge was announcing his retirement and told the fans to thank Edge. Edge said Waller had been here for half a hiccup and hasn’t even had a match on the main roster yet. Edge told Waller it was time to sink or swim. He said he wasn’t retiring, in fact he’s going to have a match here tonight. He said it would be him against Waller.

They showed a long recap of what happened earlier with Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, and The Usos. The announcers said Jimmy was being “medically evaluated” and hoped to have an update by the end of the night.

AJ Styles defeated Karrion Kross

This went two minutes, max.

The announcers immediately pointed out that Kross’ leg was taped up and that he may have a leg issue. Kross cut off Styles and tried to go for the cross jacket. Styles cut him off with a pele kick and went for the phenomenal forearm. Scarlett attempted to distract him, but Michin at ringside took her out. Kross lifted Styles on his shoulders but Styles escaped and took out Kross and hit the phenomenal forearm for the win.

Asuka segment

Asuka declared no one was ready for Asuka. Bianca Belair came out and responded to that statement by attacking Asuka. Charlotte Flair ran out and met Belair as the two attacked one another. Asuka went to climb the top rope, but IYO SKY cut her off. Together she and Bayley laid out Asuka. SKY attempted to cash in, but Belair grabbed Bayley and dragged her to the outside as Charlotte hit a big boot on SKY as she was holding the briefcase. So no cash in.

Edge defeated Grayson Waller

I thought this was a good match, but the crowd was only sorta there for it. I thought the finish was rather good.

Edge started out in control, hitting a gutwrench suplex. He hit a fallaway slam and positioned himself for the spear, but Waller countered with a knee. He slid out of the ring and clotheslined Edge as the show went to commercial.

Waller remained in control as he worked on Edge’s neck. Edge attempted to come back with some forearms, but Waller cut him off. Waller went to the middle rope but Edge cut him off as he started to climb up. Waller fought back, sending Edge back down face first. Waller jumped off the turnbuckle, but Edge got the knees up.

Edge connected with a flapjack as Michael Cole announced that Jey Uso has arrived back at the building. Edge hit a crossbody off the top rope as Waller kicked out. Waller hit Edge with a boot in the corner, rolled over the back of Edge and hit the unprettier for a nearfall. He then landed a rolling forearm for another nearfall.

Edge cut off Waller with the edgecution DDT. Edge missed the spear in the turnbuckle as he went for his rolling cutter finish, but Edge instead hit the spear for the win. Cool finish.

After the match, Edge told Waller that “he swam.”

Roman Reigns was shown holding his lei backstage. Paul Heyman entered the room and told Reigns that Jey Uso was back at Madison Square Garden, and was looking for him. Reigns replied he wouldn’t have to look hard, as he’ll be in the ring.

Roman Reigns segment

Reigns was already in the ring as the show returned from commercial. Jey Uso’s music hit as he came out through the crowd. He attacked Sikoa, posting him as he stared down Reigns. Jey grabbed a chair and attacked Reigns with it. Reigns retreated as Jey repeatedly attacked Sikoa with the chair.

Jey then grabbed the WWE title that Reigns left behind. He grabbed a microphone. He said he was the judge, the jury, and executioner. He said it was trial by combat now. Jey challenged Reigns to a one-on-one match and told him he’d better accept it so he could “whoop his a** one more time.” That brought SmackDown to an end.

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

Posted on June 30, 2023 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.

WWE SmackDown live results: Tag Team title unification match

Posted on June 23, 2023 by Colin McGuire

Tonight’s SmackDown emanates from the Cajundome in Lafayette, Louisiana, as the friction between The Usos and Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa may reach new heights following the events of last week where Jey Uso superkicked Reigns.

The two teams will square off in the Bloodline Civil War at Money in the Bank. WWE is hyping that the war begins tonight.

WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Ronda Rousey & Shayna Baszler will face off against NXT Women’s Tag Team Champions Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn tonight in a match to unify the belts.

After a confrontation last week, Bayley will put her women’s Money in the Bank ladder match spot on the line against Shotzi. The match was made when IYO SKY accepted the challenge for Bayley.

A triple threat match between Santos Escobar, Butch, and LA Knight was originally announced for tonight. Instead, Knight will be going one-on-one with Rey Mysterio.

Plus, Charlotte Flair returns to action against Lacey Evans, Pretty Deadly appear on The Grayson Waller Effect, and more.

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

**********

– The show opened with a video recap of what happened with the Bloodline on last week’s episode.

The Usos Segment

The Usos made their entrance and had mics in their hands. The crowd chanted their name and they soaked it in before starting to talk. Jey started to say “The Bloodline …” but Jimmy stopped him and Jey corrected himself to say “The Usos are in your city.” Jimmy asked Jey how he was feeling and the crowed chanted “Ucey!” Jey noted that they’re about to fight their own family and it’s not supposed to be like that. Jey started to ramble a bit and Jimmy stopped him to say he thinks Jey made the “absolute perfect choice” last week. Jey said they still love Roman Reigns and the crowd booed.

Jey spoke to Roman, into the camera, and said he would have done anything Roman told him to do. Jey said where Roman messed up was when he disrespected Jey and Jimmy. Jimmy said respect is huge and they were in the most dominant faction in WWE, but once Roman stopped showing the Usos respect, the Usos left him on the Aisle of Irrelevancy on his own. Jey said they can forgive Roman, but they can’t forgive those outside the circle. Jimmy talked about how Jimmy and Jey were built on respect. Jey said there’s going to be a Civil War at Money In The Bank. Jey said everyone is looking at the best tag team in the world. Jey said at MITB, it’s lockdown and Jimmy and Jey welcomed Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns to the Uso Penitentiary to end the segment.

**********

LA Knight defeated Rey Mysterio Jr. [8:35]

Wait. Where was Butch?! Anyway, the match was fine enough, but those two had a few too many sloppy moments for me. A rare half-miss for two wrestlers who I typically like, but here, things felt a half-step off for the bulk of the match. Knight going over was the right move, but nobody came out of this looking good when it’s all said and done. The post-match angle felt a little forced, too, because nobody’s buying Knight as a heel, yet WWE keeps trying to sell it. This was fine, but it could have been much, much better.

The crowd chanted “LA Knight” once the bell rang. Knight had control early. Mysterio eventually cut Knight off with a dropkick, but Knight responded quickly with a knee to the head. Mysterio eventually fought back and landed a series of punches on Knight and hit the first part of the 619. Knight went to the apron and Mysterio hit a baseball slide onto Knight, taking him to the outside as the show went to a commercial.

Back form break, Knight had control with a neck-breaker. Knight lifted Mysterio, but Mysterio rolled Knight into a turnbuckle. Mysterio hit a Senton and cross-body for a two count. Mysterio ran at Knight and Knight caught him for a slam. Knight then landed a jumping elbow for a two count. Mysterio jumped at Knight and eventually it turned into a DDT for a two-count. Mysterio hit an enziguri, but Knight caught Rey and ultimately Blunt Force Trauma for the win.

After the match, Knight tried to take off Mysterio’s mask, but Santos Escobar ran out for the save. The show cut backstage, where Solo Sikoa gave the Samoan Spike to Ridge Holland in the back. Paul Heyman was with Sikoa and after Sikoa took Holland down, Heyman “called Roman Reigns” as the show went to break.

**********

– Back from break, Sheamus cut the show off and walked out of the back with a microphone calling out Sikoa. He said he’d give Sikoa the fight of his life and stomped to the back. Ronda Rousey’s music hit and she, along with Shayna Baszler, walked to the ring. Raquel Rodriguez was sitting at ringside for their match with Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn.

Shayna Baszler & Ronda Rousey defeated Isla Dawn & Alba Fyre to win the WWE Unified Women’s Tag Team Titles [9:50]

The outcome wasn’t really in doubt, but I do wonder what Liv’s injury was. It seems like this has been happening a bit lately in WWE: a woman with a title gets injured, the injury isn’t really ever explained, and then she reappears fairly quickly to challenge for a title she never lost. OK, maybe it doesn’t happen too, too much, but I have Roxanne Perez on my mind. Anyway, it’s hard to think anyone outside of Baszler and Rousey should have those tag titles for a good long time, if only because maybe they can build them into something they haven’t been. As for the match itself … Fyre and Dawn showed good fire (pun always intended). Here’s hoping they get some meaningful time moving forward. I’d hate it if they were just in a bad position at a bad time, considering how they’ve been the NXT women’s tag champs and the company is just in title unification mode. Time will tell.

Baszler and Fyre began the match and Baszler got the best of her. Dawn tagged in soon into the match and got a quick two count, which led to Baszler tagging in Rousey. Rousey did her takeover series on Dawn, but Dawn cut her off with a boot. Fyre tagged in and took Rousey down. Fyre suplexed Rousey and Dawn hit a meterora for a two-count. Fyre kicked the back of Rousey’s leg and put Rousey on her shoulders, but Rousey came right back with a poison-rana, which sent the match to break.

Back from the commercial, Rousey was working an ankle-lock on Fyre until Fyre got out of it via an enziguri. Baszler tagged in, hit a knee strike and got a two-count on Fyre. Fyre kicked away Baszler and got the hot tag to Dawn. Dawn took town Baszler with a kick. Dawn then landed a back suplex and came off the top with a meteora for a two count. Baszler sank in her finisher, but Fyre came off the top to break it up. Fyre then took out Rousey on the outside and Fyre tagged in. Baszler kicked Dawn and Baszler and Rousey sank in their finishers on Fyre and Dawn to win the match in a double tap-out.

After the match, Rodriguez got on the mic and said “they” want a rematch because they never lost the titles. Baszler asked who “they” were and Liv Morgan came to the ring to solidify her comeback. It appears Rodriguez and Morgan will be first up for Rousey and Baszler.

**********

The Grayson Waller Effect

Waller introduced Pretty Deadly as his guests. Waller added a disco ball to his set. The team said the Grayson Waller Effect is “so much better” than The KO Show. Waller said it was nice to have people on the show who have style and banter. Waller brought up the fact that next week, Pretty Deadly will take on Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn for the Undisputed Tag Team Titles. Elton Prince started talking about how he doesn’t believe Owens and Zayn haven’t given them enough respect. The crowd chanted “Shut up!” in response.

Prince talked about how Owens and Zayn have giant egos. Prince said Pretty Deadly will be on the same page for at least the next 10 years while Zayn and Owens’s egos will get in the way. Waller brought up how Pretty Deadly won five of the best teams in WWE last week to get the title shot. Kit Wilson said Pretty Deadly are the iron men of SmackDown. Pretty Deadly noted repeatedly how they beat the LWO last week. Pretty Deadly then brought up the Street Profits and on cue, the Profits made their entrance. Montez Ford yelled that they want the smoke and as a result, Pretty Deadly vs. the Street Profits was made.

**********

Pretty Deadly defeated The Street Profits [8:58]

Poor Street Profits. They came into the main roster with a bang and since then … well, can someone please name me the last significant win they had? Asking for a friend. Either way, the match here was pretty good, even though a lot of it was lost to commercial break. The Profits showed pretty good fire (even though they mostly always do), despite the prevailing notion that Pretty Deadly would get the win because they’re the ones with an upcoming title match. The Profits, meanwhile, are veering into that era in WWE where either something changes soon or they might want to head elsewhere if they’re interested in being used as a serious top team. Or, for that matter, I mean … WWE could break them up. Right? Whichever it is, they are closer to WWE purgatory than they’ve ever been and that’s not great.

Ford and Wilson began the match and Ford took control with a headlock. Dawkins tagged in and Pretty Deadly quickly got the upper-hand. Prince tagged in and worked over Dawkins with some strikes. Prince came off the second rope and Dawkins caught him with a punch. Ford tagged in and chopped the hell out of Prince. Ford took Prince’s shirt off him and put it on himself before the Profits took out Pretty Deadly, who were on the outside, with a tandem splash.

After the show returned from commercial, Wilson was in control, working over Ford inside the ring. The two came off the top with Ford getting the best of it. Ford got the hot tag to Dawkins and Dawkins came in to clean house. Dawkins landed a double under-hook slam for a two count. Ford tagged in and Dawkins shoulder-blocked Prince into Ford, who pinned Prince for a two count. Ford slammed Prince and tagged in Dawkins. The Profits set up for something, but Wilson broke it up and Prince rolled up Dawkins (with a little help from the ropes) for the win.

**********

Charlotte defeated Lacey Evans [2:30]

The closest thing to a squash we got all night. It’d be nice to see this segment get more love because my God, Asuka and Charlotte are set to fight next week for the WWE Women’s Championship. But it is what it is, I suppose. Remember that purgatory I was just whining about when it comes to the Street Profits? Lacey Evans has a permanent address there these days. She’s doing her best to work her way out of it, but luck doesn’t seem to be in her favor these days.

The two locked up to begin the match and Evans pulled Charlotte’s hair, but Charlotte responded with a shoulder block before stepping over Evans while Evans laid down. Charlotte hit Evans with some chops. Evans fought back by whipping Charlotte to the ground via her hair. Evans went to the second rope to demand the crowd salute her. Somewhere, Sgt. Slaughter called his lawyer. Charlotte mocked Evans and suplexed Evans. Charlotte hit the big boot and sank in the figure eight for the win.

After the bell rang, Asuka attacked Charlotte and saluted Charlotte repeatedly in some very funny moments. Asuka left Charlotte laying.

**********

– Bianca Belair was shown talking to Adam Pearce backstage. Belair said she wants to be ringside next week to make sure nobody cuts the line. Pearce said there is too much at stake and as a result, Belair will be barred from ringside. Belair questioned Pearce and walked away.

– Next week, we get Charlotte vs. Asuka for the WWE Women’s Championship. Roman Reigns will return to SmackDown next week. Logan Paul will be the guest on the Grayson Waller Effect. And the tag team title match between Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens vs. Pretty Deadly will go down.

**********

Solo Sikoa fought Sheamus to a no-contest in 14:53.

Good for Sheamus for stepping up in a match that didn’t feel like it was necessarily planned to happen since WWE started making plans for this SmackDown. Sikoa continues to step up in these high-profile moments, but I’d be lying if I didn’t say that final run through the barrier didn’t look like Sikoa utterly missed Sheamus. It wouldn’t be so bad if Sheamus wasn’t written to be taken out as a result of it, but so it goes. With the Usos standing tall to end the episode, you have to wonder if they’ll be the ones taking the loss in at MITB. There’s still next week, I suppose. As for this episode of SmackDown, this was the match of the night for what it was worth, but a lot there felt luke warm. We’ll see how they heat it up next week going into MITB.

Sheamus had control early on until Sikoa fought back with passion. Sheamus tried an early Brogue Kick before Sikoa rolled to the outside. Sheamus followed him and stomped on Sikoa’s hand and rolled Sikoa back into the ring, where Sikoa bounced right back and worked Sheamus’s back. Sheamus ultimately turned things around and came off the top for a clothesline and a one-count. Sikoa fought back with some chops. Sheamus cut off Sikoa with a clothesline and went for 10 Bells while Sikoa was on the apron, but Sikoa blocked it. On the apron, Sheamus lifted Sikoa, but Sikoa fought out and rammed Sheamus into the ring post. Sikoa then hit a Samoan Drop ont he outside as the show went to break.

Back from break, Sikoa had control and pumped himself up until he ran into a clothesline from Sheamus. Sheamus slammed Sikoa to keep control. Sikoa rolled to the apron and Sheamus grabbed him for 10 Bells. Sheamus fired up and went for the Brogue Kick, but Sikoa cut him off, only for Sikoa to run into a knee from Sheamus for a two count. A “This is awesome!” chant broke out. Sheamus tried to lift Sikoa, but he couldn’t for a minute … until he did and and hit White Noise, but it resulted in only a two count.

Sheamus set up for a Celtic Cross, but Sikoa fought out of it and hit a Samoan Spike, which took Sheamus to the outside. Sikoa slammed Sheamus on top of the broadcast table on the outside, but the match kept going. Sikoa put Sheamus through the barricade on the outside and Jessika Carr called the match off as Sheamus looked to be out. Sikoa started spiking everyone around him. The Usos music hit and they ran to the ring. Both brothers hit Sikoa with super-kicks. The Usos stared down Paul Heyman before hitting Sikoa with another double super-kick. The Usos then hit Sikoa with an Usos Splash to end the show.

WWE SmackDown live results: Roman Reigns deals with Bloodline in disarray

Posted on June 16, 2023 by Colin McGuire

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns will be in the building as tonight’s SmackDown takes place at Rupp Arena in Lexington, Kentucky.

Reigns will have to deal with a Bloodline that’s in disarray. Jey Uso was expected to make his choice between his twin Jimmy and the rest of The Bloodline last week, but the show ended with Jey still undecided. Jey was unsuccessful in his attempt to win the United States title after getting hit with an inadvertent superkick by Jimmy. Jimmy was attempting to hit Solo Sikoa but accidentally dropped Jey.

Paul Heyman got Jey the US title shot against Austin Theory in an attempt to sway Jey into staying aligned with Reigns and Sikoa. Jey walked away from Jimmy at the end of last Friday’s show — but he also walked past Sikoa and Heyman.

After making her return last week, Charlotte Flair is set to appear on The Grayson Waller Effect tonight.

AJ Styles & Michin vs. Karrion Kross & Scarlett and Zelina Vega vs. IYO SKY have also been announced. Plus, there will be a tag team gauntlet to determine the next challengers for Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn’s Undisputed WWE Tag Team titles.

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

**********

– The show opened with a video package chronicling what happened last week with the Bloodline.

– Kayla Braxton was in a parking garage and Roman Reigns showed up in a black SUV. Paul Heyman stepped out of the car along with Reigns and said nothing as he walked past Braxton. From there, we went to the ring, where the Street Profits’ music hit.

**********

Pretty Deadly won a tag team gauntlet match to face Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens for the WWE Undisputed Tag Team Championship [21:22]

While this was a fun opening match that ate up the first quarter of the show, the outcome was hardly in doubt after Pretty Deadly’s involvement at the end of last week’s episode. WWE also has a habit of showcasing one team to run the table … until they don’t … so when the Brutes began the match and found themselves still in it at the end, it was hard to think they’d get the win. As for the match itself, it was fairly standard. No other team outside of the final two got a spotlight. The O.C. carried a commercial break, the Profits were out within three minutes, Hit Row barely lasted 30 seconds and the LWO were gone before any momentum could be had. Gauntlet matches never do WWE any favors because it spotlights how weak specific divisions are and this was no exception.

The Brutes and Profits began the match with Montez Ford facing off against Sheamus. Ford chopped Sheamus and Sheamus no sold it. As a result, Sheamus landed the Irish Curse and tagged in Ridge Holland, who suplexed Ford. Eventually, Ford hit a step-up enziguri to take control and tag in Angelo Dawkins, who landed a spinning corkscrew elbow on Holland. Sheamus got in after a blind tag and hit a Brogue Kick on Dawkins to eliminate the Street Profits at about 2:30. The Good Brothers were next to enter the match.

After a commercial break, The O.C. had control as Gallows slammed Sheamus for a two-count. Anderson tagged in and worked over Sheamus. Anderson landed a series of forearms and tagged in Gallows, who hit a nice snap suplex before sinking in a chin-lock. Gallows come off the rope, but Sheamus caught him for a tilt-a-whirl slam. Anderson tagged in and cut off a potential hot tag to Holland. Sheamus came right back with a Brogue Kick on Anderson and eliminated The O.C. at about 9 minutes. The LWO was the next team to enter the match.

Joaquin Wilde had control on Sheamus early, and ultimately, tagged in Del Toro to attempt a few tag maneuvers. Holland tagged himself in and took control, ultimately pinning Del Toro to eliminate the LWO at about 11 minutes. Hit Row were next up, but Top Dolla ran right into a Brogue Kick to get eliminated instantly. The final team to enter and face the Brutes were Pretty Deadly.

Pretty Deadly had control early. Kit Wilson landed a neck-breaker on Holland for a two-count. Elton Prince tagged in and worked over Holland in a corner. Prince kept control with a series of elbows and forearms. Prince sank in a chin-lock to slow things down. Prince chop-blocked Holland and tagged in Wilson. Pretty Deadly went for a double-team move, but Holland countered with a sloppy double back body drop. Sheamus then received the hot tag and cleaned house.

Sheamus hit a pair of Irish Curses on Wilson and Prince and then slammed Prince onto Wilson. Sheamus fired up the crowd and went for a Brogue Kic, but Wilson ducked it. As a result, Sheamus hit an Alabama Slam for a two-count. Holland took Prince to the outside, and before long, Wilson made his way to the apron, where he, along with Prince, were the subject of a dual 10 Beats spot. Sheamus pounded on Wilson for what seemed like forever. Sheamus lifted Wilson and Prince hit a blind tag to come off the top rope with a leg drop to get the win.

**********

– After a commercial break, Pretty Deadly were still in the ring and Sami Zayn’s music hit as the tag champs made their entrance. Zayn said congratulations were in order for Pretty Deadly. Zayn said nobody expected Pretty Deadly to win and since they won, they’ve overstayed their welcome in the ring. Zayn told Pretty Deadly to get the hell out of the ring. Prince made fun of Zayn’s hair. Wilson said when they become the new tag champs, they’ll stay out and celebrate even longer than how long they stayed in the ring after the match. The two Pretty Deadly guys played off the “even longer” phrase. Zayn asked Owens if he was bothered and Owens blew up, saying he wants to punch Pretty Deadly in “their stupid faces.” Owens and Zayn ran to the ring and Pretty Deadly retreated.

– Roman Reigns was sitting backstage with Paul Heyman and Heyman asked Reigns if he had spoke with Jey Uso. Reigns said he hadn’t. Reigns reiterated that he’s the Tribal Chief and that Jey should have reached out to Reigns. Reigns told Heyman that Heyman needs to talk to Jey.

**********

Zelina Vega defeated IYO SKY [2:23]

The long, slow walk toward the end of Damage CTRL continues. This was the first time IYO seemed legitimately annoyed with Bayley, so if that split doesn’t come at Money In The Bank in two weeks, I’ll eat my laptop. In the meantime, Vega got a nice win (even if it wasn’t clean) and it’s good to see her see some W’s under her belt.

Vega started the match by asking for a handshake, but SKY hit her instead. A lot of quick action to begin with the two trading offense. SKY slowed things down by working on Vega’s arm. Vegan went to run the ropes and Bayley stopped her. From there, SKY rolled up Vega and got a visual three count, but Bayley still had the referee distracted. SKY got mad and yelled at Bayley. Vega responded by hitting the 619 on SKY while SKY was yelling at Bayley and that got Vega the win.

**********

– Bianca Belair confronted Adam Pearce backstage and Pearce said he didn’t have an answer for when Belair’s rematch for the WWE Women’s Championship would happen. Belair said if Pearce won’t give her an answer, she’s just going to have to do things her own way. In a wild twist, the Grayson Waller Effect was next, complete with Charlotte Flair as a guest.

– Backstage, Bayley and SKY were arguing backstage until Shotzi interrupted them. Shotzi said if it wasn’t for Bayley, Shotzi would be in the MITB match. Shotzi told Bayley to put her spot in the MTIB match on the line against Shotzi. SKY accepted on behalf of Bayley. Bayley was annoyed and SKY said she was just trying to help.

**********

The Grayson Waller Effect

Waller welcomed Charlotte to the ring. Waller said it was great having Charlotte there while the crowd “Woooo!”-ed it up. Waller talked about Charlotte vs. Asuka and the history they had. Waller said it’s not the same Asuka that Charlotte’s faced in the past. Waller asked Charlotte if she will become a 15-time champion. Charlotte responded by saying she has Asuka’s number. Waller let out a “Woooo!” and Bianca Belair’s music hit as Belair made her way to the ring.

Belair said someone will have to explain how things are working right now because Charlotte got an opportunity at the women’s title and Belair didn’t. Charlotte got up and walked toward Belair. Charlotte said she called her shot and got it and she won’t apologize for getting the title shot. Charlotte said she never got a rematch with Rhea Ripley after losing at WrestleMania. Belair said she stayed, unlike Charlotte, and Belair tried to do it the right way and maybe Belair should take things into her own hands, too. Charlotte said she stepped away, but didn’t run away, and Charlotte said she’s picked herself up every time and that she is a champion with or without the title. She asked Bianca if she was the same.

Bianca said she’s the longest reigning women’s champion of the modern era. Belair told Charlotte to put respect on her name. Belair said the past is the past and because she’s not getting a rematch, she’s going to be ringside while Asuka and Charlotte wrestle at MITB. Belair ended the segment by saying the belt is going to come back to her and left the ring. Charlotte stood in the ring as Belair left.

**********

– Backstage, Heyman tried to talked to Jey Uso and apologized to Jey for being right last week. Heyman said Jimmy is jealous of Jey. Heyman said Jey didn’t deserve it and for that, Heyman said he was sorry. Jey said he was sorry, too, because if Jey is in the Bloodline, Heyman is still out of it. The two stared at each other.

**********

Scarlett and Karrion Kross defeated AJ Styles and Michin [2:21]

I don’t know what the hell this was. I guess the story is Scarlett tried to seduce Styles, but AJ took a glove off and yelled, “I’m married, bitch,” which was a choice. It feels like Michin and Scarlett are going to work together for a bit, but I’m not quite sure if Styles and Kross are supposed to be dancing partners moving forward, either. It’s nuts to throw these four into a match and have the segment last less than five minutes. Maybe there were some timing issues on the show. This felt more random than anything – even though these four are clearly working a story.

Kross and Styles started the match with Styles getting the upper hand. Michin tagged in and landed a DDT on Kross. Scarlett came in to even things out, but Mihcin came right back with some kicks and a German Suplex. Scarlett tagged in Kross and Styles instantly hit a Styles Clash on Kross. Scarlett broke it up and punched Styles. The women fell outside and Kross hit the Kross Hammer for the win.

**********

– Backstage, Reigns asked Heyman if he talked to Jey and the two sat in silence for a bit because Heyman didn’t have much of an explanation. Solo Sikoa intimidated Heyman enough to run him off. Sikoa asked Reigns if he needed Sikoa to handle things. Reigns said they still have plenty of time.

– Cameron Grimes was interviewed backstage and said he’s been having a bunch of fun on SmackDown, but he barely got the line out before Baron Corbin attacked him.

– Rey Mysterio made his entrance and had a microphone. Mysterio said there’s one accomplishment he’s truly proud of in his career and that’s reforming the LWO. Mysterio introduced Santos Escobar. Mysterio gave the mic to Escobar, who said timing is everything. Escobar said he’s worked hard and made a lot of sacrifices for the opportunity of a lifetime at MITB. Escobar thanked Mysterio and said he loved Mysterio. Escobar said Rey inspired him and he will fight for Rey, among others. EScobar was cut off by LA Knight. Knight pushed Mysterio to the mat and Escobar dropkicked Knight. Rey went for the 619 before the show went to commercial and Knight rolled to the outside.

**********

Santos Escobar defeated LA Knight [2:13 of TV time]

For the life of me, I can’t figure out why you have a segment with LA Knight in it, but you don’t make time for him to talk, so perhaps there really were timing issues with this show. On top of that, Knight, who the crowd continues to be vociferously behind, took a loss in about two minutes of television time in a match that never got into a groove to the at-home crowd. You be you, WWE.

The match started during the commercial break and when the show came back, Knight had control. It wasn’t long before Escobar took out Knight and hit a back-breaker. Escobar came off the top for a cross-body, which got him a two-count. Escobar landed a running knee and lifted Knight, but Knight worked out and then slammed Escobar, much to the delight of the crowd. Knight hit his jumping elbow for a two-count. Escobar kicked Knight and ultimately rolled Knight up for the win. After the match, Knight attacked Escobar until Mysterio ran out for the save.

**********

– Jey Uso was walking back stage and ran into Sami Zayn. Zayn nodded at Jey and walked away. Jey kept walking. Roman Reigns’s music hit back at ringside and Roman made his way to the ring with Heyman and Solo Sikoa.

– Next week, Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler will face Isla Dawn and Alba Fyre to unify the women’s tag team titles. Also set for next week, Baron Corbin will square off against Cameron Grimes and Shotzi will go up against Bayley for Bayley’s spot in the women’s Money In The Bank match.

The Bloodline Segment

Reigns began by asking Lexington to acknowledge him. Instantly, the Usos’ music hit and Jey made his way to the ring. Roman said he knows the crowd wants answers. Roman asked Jey if he’s in or out. The crowd chanted “Uso!” Jey responded by saying it’s either going to be Heyman or Jey. Roman said when Jey is Tribal Chief, Jey can pick anyone he wants to be his Wise Man, but Heyman, for now, is Roman’s Wise Man. Roman said he was meant to get them to the top of the mountain, but Jey was meant to keep them at the top of the mountain. The crowd gave Roman the “What?” treatment. Roman said they’ve been training Jey for three years now because Jey is meant to lead, but just not yet.

Roman said the problem is Jimmy. While Roman was talking, Jimmy walked to the ring with a microphone in hand without music. Jimmy said the problem isn’t Jimmy; the problem is Roman. Jimmy said in reality, Roman is using Jey. Jimmy asked Jey if he believes Roman over Jimmy. Roman said it took him 10 years to get the Usos at a WrestleMania. Roman said Jimmy drags Jey down while Roman lifts Jey up. Roman said Jey can’t be a Tribal Chief and a twin at the same time. Roman recalled Jimmy having a problem with naming Jey the righthand man to Roman. Jey stared at Jimmy. Jey asked Jimmy if that was true. Jimmy said it was true. Jimmy looked dejected and Jey paced around the ring. Jey yelled at Jimmy, saying he expects something like that from Roman, but not Jimmy. Jey used Jimmy’s real name, Joshua. Jey looked like he was going to cry as he dressed down Jimmy. Jey said he’s the main event Uso and it’s all because of Roman. Jey screamed that Jimmy is out … and then said he’s out, too. Jey immediately turned around and super-kicked Roman. The Usos took out Sikoa as well. The Usos then double-super-kicked Reigns and stood tall to end the show.

WWE SmackDown live results: Jey Uso makes his choice

Posted on June 9, 2023 by Colin McGuire

Jey Uso is set to make his choice between his twin, Jimmy, and The Bloodline on tonight’s WWE SmackDown from the Wells Fargo Center in Des Moines, Iowa.

Jey appeared conflicted at the end of last week’s episode when Solo Sikoa gave Jimmy a Samoan Spike after Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns teased embracing Jimmy.

A Women’s Championship presentation is set to go down tonight. WWE has announced that Asuka will be presented with a new WWE Women’s Championship title belt. Though she’s currently the Raw Women’s Champion, Asuka is a member of the SmackDown roster.

The build to Money in the Bank will pick up with four qualifying matches. In two men’s MITB qualifying bouts, Santos Escobar will take on Mustafa Ali while Butch faces Baron Corbin.

The women’s qualifying matches will feature Bayley vs. Michin and Shotzi vs. IYO SKY.

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

**********

– The show began with a video recapping the Bloodline drama from last week. Michael Cole welcomed everyone in and Solo Sikoa and Paul Heyman were already standing in the ring. As soon as Heyman began to talk, the Usos’ music began to play and Jey Uso made his way to the ring.

The Bloodline Segment

Jey had a mic and told Solo that stabbing his big brother in the back isn’t something he should have done. Jey said he didn’t know if he could forgive Sikoa for that and told Sikoa to say what he needed to say. Heyman interjected and said Jey had it all wrong. Heyman said it’s not anyone’s fault but Jimmy’s fault because Jimmy made up his own mind for both Jey and Jimmy. Heyman moved Sikoa behind him and said he’s taking a chance standing so close to Jey. Heyman asked Jey if Jimmy asked Jey about kicking Roman Reigns at Night of Champions.

Heyman said Jimmy has always resented Jey because Reigns wants to groom Jey to be the next Tribal Chief. Heyman said that being the next Tribal Chief is Jey’s fate. Because of as much, Heyman said Jimmy resents Jey. Heyman said he’s going to prove things to Jey and in order to do so, he made a match between Jey and Austin Theory for the U.S. title. Heyman also said there is no more tag team in WWE named The Usos. Heyman said after Jey wins the U.S. title, Reigns will publicly groom Jey to become the next Tribal Chief.

Heyman gave Jey the microphone and Jey said he’d take Heyman up on the U.S. title challenge. Heyman stuck out his hand for a handshake. Jey stood there looking conflicted before saying he’d get back to Heyman on shaking his hand. Jey then left the ring.

**********

Santos Escobar defeated Mustafa Ali in a Money In The Bank qualifying match [9:07]

This was a very good opening match and I’d even venture to say the best since I started reviewing SmackDown for this website. It felt like Ali and Escobar wanted to prove something and they did. That hurricanrana spot was gnarly, though, and Rey noticed it right away as he checked on Santos immediately after Santos hit his head on the steps. Here’s hoping Escobar is OK. All told, this was non-stop action, which isn’t always promised from a WWE match. So much of this was spent on the outside with bigger moves, I had to check for the WWE graphic to make sure I was watching the correct company. Good stuff all around.

Before the match started, LA Knight’s music hit and Knight sat in on commentary. The match began with Ali and Escobar trading chops. Escobar hit a big shoulder block and the two went back and forth early. On the outside, the two traded chops and slaps. Escobar hit a hurricanrana as the two fought off the apron and took Ali to the floor, but hit his own head on the ring steps on the way down. Escobar landed a suicide dive through the ropes onto Ali, who was on the outside. Escobar then landed a cross-body on Ali on the outside before the show went to a commercial break.

Back from the break, the two were fighting on the top rope. Ali flipped off the top onto the outside. Escobar leapt off the top, but Ali countered with a dropkick to the head. Back inside the ring, Ali went for for a 450 splash, but Escobar moved and landed a Poisonrana for a good near-fall. Escobar then hit a double knee, but Ali kicked out landed a tornado DDT for another good near-fall. Ali went to the top but Escobar cut him off and landed the Phantom Driver for the win.

**********

After the match, the show cut to Jey Uso backstage, where he was approached by Sami Zayn, who said the time he had with him was some of the best times of his life. Zayn talked about making Jey laugh. Zayn said when the Tribal Chief takes over, bad things happen. Zayn said Reigns pushes too far and Zayn said he tried to put the Bloodline first, but it was never enough for Reigns. Zayn said Reigns made Sami not trust his own brother, which is what Reigns is doing to Jey now. Zayn said whatever happens, Jey has to understand the consequences and Jey should listen to his heart and not what’s being put into his ear. Jey said nothing and walked away.

**********

– Kayla Braxton stood in the ring and introduced Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn. The women stepped into the ring with microphones. Braxton welcomed them to SmackDown, but Braxton was cut off right away by Ronda Rousey’s music. Rousey and Shayna Baszler made their entrance. Baszler asked Fyre and Dawn how much they knew about the NXT women’s tag titles. Baszler said she’s the reason those titles were even created. Rousey chimed in and said they’re going to be hungry soon and said they’re going to want Dawn and Fyre in a match to unify the tag titles. The women brawled to end the segment with Dawn and Fyre getting the best of Baszler and Rousey.

– Michael Cole threw to a video package honoring the Iron Sheik.

**********

Bayley defeated Michin in a Money In The Bank qualifying match [2:31]

It kind of sucks that this was ostensibly here to further the Styles/Kross story because there is a world where Bayley and Michin deserve more than two-and-a-half minutes for a match with actual stakes. Still, Bayley gave Michin a lot, so despite the short runtime, it wasn’t a squash. Michin needs something. They’re trying by putting her in The O.C., but she could use a nudge or two in a forward direction to help kickstart this latest WWE run. She’s just better than what they’re giving her.

AJ styles sat in on commentary. The action spilled to the outside almost immediately and Bayley mocked Styles until Michin dove through the ropes to take Bayley out. Back in the ring, Michin worked over Bayley and eventually hit a DDT for a two-count. Michin kicked Bayley until Bayley went to the apron, where Bayley grabbed Michin by her hair and ran Michin into the second turnbuckle. Bayley then hit the Rose Plant for the win.

After the match, Scarlett appeared out of nowhere and sprayed something in Styles’s face. Karrion Kross appeared and worked a Kross Jacket on Styles to end the segment.

– Bianca Belair was shown taking to Adam Pearce backstage. Pearce asked Belair to stay backstage during Asuka’s championship ceremony. Pearce said Belair is in line for a rematch. Belair said because of the rematch promise, she won’t get involved.

The Asuka Championship Celebration

Adam Pearce presented Asuka with the WWE Women’s Championship. The new belt wasn’t all that different from the old belt, but neither was the new Heavyweight Title. As Pearce was putting the belt on Asuka, Charlotte Flair’s music hit and Charlotte walked to the ring. Charlotte received a nice respectable pop and grabbed a microphone. Pearce asked Charlotte what she was doing there. Pearce was drowned out by “Wooooo!” from the crowd.

Pearce said Charlotte needed to get in line. Charlotte said she doesn’t wait in line because she made the line. Charlotte then did the “Woooo!” thing. The crowd ate it up. Charlotte said she wants Asuka’s title so she’s challenging Asuka for the belt. Asuka accepted the challenge. Asuka went for the mist, but Charlotte moved and kicked Asuka in the head, sending Asuka outside the ring to end the segment.

**********

Jey Uso was shown backstage and Paul Heyman approached him saying how Jey acted earlier was a good cliffhanger. Heyman said he needed Jey’s passport because they’re all going to go to Money In The Bank together. Heyman also said Roman will be there live next week. Heyman also said if Jey sticks around, he’ll receive a public acknowledgement from Reigns that Jey’s next in line to be Tribal Chief. Jey seemed excited because he said if Jey’s going to be in the Bloodline, that means Heyman won’t be in the Bloodline. Jey walked away and Heyman pulled out his cellphone.

**********

– Adam Pearce was shown backstage on the phone until Bianca Belair interrupted him. Belair gave him the old stare down, reminding him she’s in line for a rematch.

– Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes were shown as the special guests watching the next match in the first row.

Butch defeated Baron Corbin in a Money In The Bank qualifying match [1:46]

Much like the Bayley/Michin match, I’m not so sure it does the Money In The Bank credibility any favors when these qualifying matches go three minutes or less – and not to mention, they’re used more to further other stories that have nothing to do with MITB – but here we are. Good for Butch. I’ve been a fan of Pete Dunne for a while now and it’s nice to see him get a shot to really shine on the main roster by being in such a high-profile match. Speaking of matches, this match was practically nothing and I can’t say I’m invested in the Corbin/Hayes program that kicked off on NXT. To be fair, it’s early.

Before the match, Corbin grabbed a microphone and taunted Hayes and Williams at ringside. The bell rang and Butch instantly attacked Corbin. Butch landed a tornado DDT for a two-count. Butch went for a moonsault, but Corbin moved and started pounding on Butch. Butch came back by doing the finger spot on Corbin. Corbin responded with a stiff hit to take Butch down. Corbin jawed at Hayes and went for a chokeslam, but Butch rolled Corbin up for the win.

After the match, Corbin went to ringside and punched Hayes, who jumped the barrier. Hayes and Williams had to be pulled apart from Corbin.

**********

– Backstage, the Brutes were being interviewed, until they were interrupted by Baron Corbin … who was interrupted by Cameron Grimes, who ran Corbin down.

Iyo Sky defeated Shotzi in a Money In The Bank qualifying match [2:33]

This all but promises that we’ll see the end of Damage CTRL at Money In The Bank. But that’s for then. As for now, this was what it was. I’m not sure if Shotzi – who, God love her, has at least two spots a match where I fear for her life – was supposed to hit her head on the turnbuckle as she came down to get to the finish, but here’s hoping she’s OK, too. Some scary spots tonight. That’s rare for WWE TV.

The match began with Sky attacking Shotzi until Shotzi fought back and suplexed Sky. Sky fought back and stomped on Shotzi’s arm. Sky went to the top, but Shotzi moved and Shotzi took control, complete with a double-arm suplex and a splash into a corner. Shotzi hit a suicide dive on Sky, who was on the outside. Shotzi went to the top, but Bayley distracted Shotzi. With the referee turned away, Bayley pushed Sky off the top rope and Sky capitalized with a moonsault for the win.

– After the match, we cut to an interview with Austin Theory, who said he’s going to beat Jey Uso like he beat John Cena. Theory said if Paul Heyman is looking for a new client, Heyman should check out Austin Theory.

– Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn were talking backstage. They were cut off by Pretty Deadly, who mocked Zayn and Owens for the way they looked. They were then interrupted by The Good Brothers, The Brawling Brutes, The Street Profits and the LWO. Owens flipped out. Adam Pearce showed up and announced a gauntlet match for next week, with the winners facing Owens and Zayn for the tag titles. Also next week, The Grayson Waller Effect will host Charlotte Flair. Michin and AJ Styles will also go up against Karrion Kross and Scarlett. In two weeks, Rousey and Baszler will face off against Fyre and Dawn to unify the women’s tag titles. In three weeks on SmackDown, Asuka and Charlotte will wrestle for the new WWE Women’s Championship.

**********

Austin Theory defeated Jey Uso to retain the U.S. Championship [8:37]

You knew there would be shenanigans, but it was hard to think it’d go down like that. Or, well, who am I kidding. Of course we were never going to get a definitive answer on where Jey stands tonight. The way this Bloodline story moves, we’re not getting that until Christmas. Anyway, the match was pretty fun while it lasted. We didn’t see much of it due to the commercial break in the middle of the match and at the end of the day, it feels like they came up three minutes too short, but they worked well together and it was nice to see Jey shine in a solo spot. Seeing the crowd behind them as much as they were suggests that anyone who thinks Jey can’t handle a significant solo run is wrong. Sadly, it doesn’t look like we’ll get much clarity on that for a while longer now.

Theory began the match with a side headlock and a shoulder tackle. Uso came back by clotheslining Theory over the top rope. Uso threw Theory across the commentary table. Back in the ring (and back from a commercial break), Theory was working over Uso with a headlock inside the ring. Uso got back to his feet and the two traded blows. Uso got the best of it and went for a spear, but Theory countered and hit a rolling dropkick for a two-count. Theory slammed Uso for a two-count. Theory set up for A Town Down, but Uso fought out and landed an enziguri. Uso hit Theory and Theory hit the ref and we had ourselves a ref bump.

Uso went to the top and hit the Uso Splash to get the crowd three-count while the ref was down. Out of nowhere, Pretty Deadly came out to attack Jey. Jimmy ran to the ring to take Pretty Deadly out. Solo Sikoa then ran to the ring and took out Jimmy. Jimmy got up and went to kick Sikoa, but instead kicked Jey. Sikoa and Jimmy brawled to the outside, the ref woke up and counted the 1-2-3.

After the match, Jimmy tried to talk to Jey in the ring. Jimmy tried to help Jey up, but Jey pushed Jimmy away. Jimmy tried to explain that he didn’t mean to kick Jey, but Jey walked out of the ring, where Heyman and Sikoa were standing. Heyman apologized for things going down the way they did. Jey looked disgusted at everyone and left. Heyman spoke to his cellphone, “Call Roman Reigns.” It appeared they went short on time because the commentary team ran down the card for next week to end the show.

WWE SmackDown live results: Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa on The KO Show

Posted on May 26, 2023 by Colin McGuire

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa will appear on The KO Show as part of tonight’s taped episode of WWE SmackDown from Columbia, South Carolina.

Reigns, Sikoa, Kevin Owens, and Sami Zayn will have their final face-to-face encounter before squaring off for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team titles at Saturday’s Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia.

SmackDown will also feature United States Champion Austin Theory defending his title against Sheamus after he confronted Theory last week.

Raquel Rodriguez will team with Shotzi to square off against Damage CTRL’s Bayley and IYO SKY. Shotzi is replacing Liv Morgan as Rodriguez’s partner due to an an injury Morgan suffered that forced she and Rodriguez to relinquish the WWE Women’s Tag Team titles.

AJ Styles takes on Karrion Kross after Scarlett was shown with a tarot card featuring Styles on it last week. Styles takes on Seth Rollins Saturday to determine the inaugural WWE World Heavyweight Champion.

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

**********

– Michael Cole welcomed everyone in, reminding viewers that Night of Champions is Saturday. Wade Barrett hopped in and, along with Cole, ran down some of the card for the night. Sheamus’s music hit and we went to the ring.

Austin Theory defeated Sheamus to retain the United States Championship [12:12]

This was a good opening match that packed more of a punch than I thought it would, considering the live crowd had already sat through an entire SmackDown before this. It looks like the Pretty Deadly/Brawling Brutes match from last week kicked off a program between the teams, which could end up being a nice little tag story. Meanwhile, this gave Sheamus an out for the loss, so my guess is they run this back sooner than later. All around, a good effort from both guys here. Sheamus still has it after all these years.

The two locked up to begin the match with Sheamus getting the best of Theory at first. Things turned around after Theory hit a rolling dropkick and went for 10 Beats, but Sheamus fought out of it until Theory ran Sheamus into the ring post and slammed Sheamus on the apron. The show then went to its first commercial break of the night.

Back from break, Theory was pounding on Sheamus’s back inside the ring. Theory went for a couple pin attempts, but Sheamus kicked out both times at one. Theory landed a rolling Blockbuster for a two-count. Theory toyed with Sheamus, which only fired Sheamus up. Sheamus hit the Irish Curse backbreaker for a two-count. Sheamus landed a wild powerslam for another two-count.

Sheamus had theory on his back and climbed to the second rope, but Theory fought out and pounded on Sheamus’s back again. Theory lifted Sheamus and slammed Sheamus for a two-count. Theory went for a rolling Blockbuster, but was met with a knee from Sheamus. Sheamus teased 10 beats, but Theory kicked his way out of it and picked up a chair for the DQ, but Ridge Holland took the chair away from him. Sheamus then commenced the 10 Beats, which turned into 25 Beats.

Out of nowhere, Pretty Deadly showed up and attacked the Brawling Brutes on the outside of the ring. They climbed onto the apron and got Sheamus’s attention, which amounted in Theory rolling Sheamus up for the win.

**********

– We got a backstage segment with the Bloodline. It turns out, Roman Reigns is going to celebrate 1,000 days as champion next week, and he wants the whole family there. Jimmy Uso was told to sit down via Roman and Jimmy didn’t obey him. As a result, the two had a tense moment. Roman dared Jimmy to do something, but the two simply had a stare down. Roman then kicked him out of the locker room and Jay followed his brother.

**********

Raquel Rodriguez and Shotzi defeated Damage CTRL [Bayley & Iyo Sky] [9:08]

The story of friction in Damage CTRL continues and you have to wonder how long Sky and Bayley have, considering Dakota Kai’s injury, which will keep her out for quite a while. It feels like the faction’s days are numbered and the last thing I thought might happen was those two losing to the makeshift tag team of Raquel and Shotzi here. The match itself was little more than just OK. The final sequence felt more confusing than anything, but perhaps this means Raquel and Shotzi have momentum going into the women’s tag title match. And perhaps that means they’ll lose.

Raquel and Bayley began the match but Sky tagged in quickly. Before long, all four women brawled in the ring with the action spilling outside, where Shotzi landed a suicide dive on both Sky and Bayley. Back in the ring, Shotzi covered Sky for a two-count. Raquel tagged in and went for a chokeslam on Sky, but Bayley had tagged in and took back control for Damage CTRL.

Both Sky and Bayley tried to control Raquel, but Raquel ultimately got the hot tag to Shotzi, who worked over Bayley with a bulldog, a right hand and a kick. Shotzi suplexed Bayley and hit a splash on Bayley, who was draped over the second rope, for a two-count. Sky tagged in and, along with Bayley, kicked Shotzi’s head. Shotzi came back with a suplex and pinned Sky, but Bayley broke it up.

Raquel tagged in and lifted Sky, who worked out of it and drove Raquel’s head into the turnbuckle. Raquel came back to drive Sky into a corner. Bayley tagged in, and in a weird sequence, Sky came off the top to take out Shotzi, but Raquel sat down on Bayley for the pinfall.

**********

– A condensed version of the Seth Rollins interviews on Raw aired in a package. An AJ Styles video package aired as well to even things out.

**********

– A Grayson Waller highlight package aired after Hit Row made their entrance.

Cameron Grimes defeated Ashante Thee Adonis [2:10]

A pretty basic, predictable match. We haven’t seen Hit Row in a little bit and Grimes is going … well … to the moon. At least for now. It appears he’ll be working with Baron Corbin in the immediate future, and there are worse heels he could work with as he gets acquainted with the main roster. As for this match, it was fine for what it was, which wasn’t much.

Grimes had a picture-in-picture promo from backstage before the match started. Grimes came out firing on all cylinders to start the match. Top Dolla stopped Grimes’s momentum by grabbing Grimes’s foot. Ashante took advantage of that interference and hit Grimes with a series of moves. Grimes eventually yelled “To the moon” and hit the Cave In for the win. After the match, Baron Corbin briefly attacked Grimes in the entrance way.

**********

– Bianca Belair made her entrance and had a microphone with her in the ring. Belair talked about how she’s going to defend her title against Asuka at Night of Champions. Belair spoke about “how good it feels to be your Raw Women’s Champion” … on SmackDown. Anyway, Belair talked about how Asuka humiliated Belair in Belair’s hometown a couple weeks ago. Belair said she’s going to give Asuka a fight, which was enough to cue Asuka’s music. Asuka attacked Belair from behind and sunk in an arm-bar on Belair until officials broke it up. Those same officials broke up an attempted KOD from Belair.

**********

LA Knight defeated Rick Boogs [3:19]

It’s good to see Knight finally get some TV time. It’s not much, but the crowd continues to be behind him and maybe this will lead to something more. The match was basic, but Boogs showed impressive strength. I mean, lean into the gimmick, right? Perhaps we’ll get something between Knight and the Profits at Night of Champions this weekend.

The Street Profits made their entrance before the match began and joined on commentary. The action in the match quickly spilled outside, where Boogs had control and dropped Knight on the commentary table. The Profits were pumped. Back inside the ring, Knight worked over Boogs until Boogs threw Knight into a corner. Knight came right back with a bunch of kicks and a running knee on Boogs.

Knight worked a front face-lock, but Boogs threw Knight away. Boogs fired up, but Knight hit some right hands and kicks to the midsection. It didn’t really matter because Boogs manhandled Knight and tossed him across the ring. Boogs lifted Knight, but Knight raked the eyes and hit the BFT for the win. After the match, Knight got a microphone and confronted the Street Profits, calling them “five dollar asses.” Knight ended the segment by throwing the microphone at the Profits.

**********

AJ Styles defeated Karrion Kross [9:27]

Kross worked hard here and you have to admire that. He seems to be in WWE purgatory, which depending on your perspective can be a great thing or a not-so-great thing. There was little debate about who would come out on top, if only because Styles is wrestling for the World Heavyweight Title on Saturday, but that didn’t mean this wasn’t a good match. The wrestlers did good with the cards they had (pun intended, Mr. Kross), and I’m curious to see if we’ll get a Michin/Scarlett story here sooner than later. Either way, this was as good as it could be, considering the circumstances.

Kross had control early on in what would have been a great match in Impact at some point, had it been possible. These days, the hair is much longer. Styles tried to fight back at one point, but Scarlett cut Styles off by grabbing his foot when Styles was on the apron and therefore, Kross kicked Styles off the apron. Michin responded by coming to ringside to even the score and she ultimately chased Scarlett to the back.

Kross kept control and worked a chin-lock on Styles until Styles fought his way out with chops, punches and an enziguri. Styles lifted Kross, but Kross got out of it. No matter because Styles hit a running forearm and a makeshift backbreaker for a two-count. Styles went for a tornado DDT, but Kross countered with a pair of suplexes for a two-count. Kross went for a KrossHammer, but Styles ducked it and went for a Styles Clash, but Kross pushed Styles away. Styles settled for a Phenomenal Forearm, which got him the win. Styles was interviewed after the match backstage and Styles said Seth Rollins can’t beat Phenomenal, referring to his match at Night of Champions.

**********

Next week, Roman Reigns will celebrate 1,000 days as champion. Also, Zelina Vega and Lacey Evans will face off in a women’s Money In The Bank qualifying match. Also, Montez Ford and LA Knight will compete in a men’s Money In The Bank qualifying match.

The KO Show segment

Owens began the segment by welcoming in Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa. From there, we heard Paul Heyman’s voice and Heyman walked out to tell everyone that the Tribal Chief just doesn’t come out when people say he comes out. Heyman also said there is no booing when Heyman has the microphone, which was pretty funny. As Heyman was talking, the Usos music hit and the Usos came out, walking past Heyman toward the ring.

Jey yelled at Sami, and Sami tried to respond, but Owens cut Zayn off, saying Owens knew Reigns wouldn’t come out anyway. Owens said he wanted to talk to the Usos anyway. Owens explained that Zayn still cares about the Usos, but Owens doesn’t get it. Owens said he he hopes to get through to the Usos, and Zayn has been right about everything the whole time. Owens said the Usos are the heart of the table, whereas Reigns is the head of the table. Owens said Reigns treats the Usos like they are expendable.

Owens called the Usos the greatest tag team in the history of WWE. He then said they are Reigns’s errand boys. Jimmy responded by saying he is the tribal chief and Heyman sold the hell out of that. Wouldn’t you know it … Roman Reigns’s music hit and Heyman looked concerned. Reigns walked out alone and with purpose. Reigns took the mic from Jey and threw it. He then confronted Jimmy with a long stare and threw his microphone, too.

Zayn interrupted and told Roman it’s over. Zayn said the Bloodline is collapsing and it’s all Roman’s fault. Roman then slapped the microphone out of Zayn’s hand. Owens responded by giving Reigns a Stunner. The Usos and Zayn/Owens then brawled. Solo Sikoa ran to the ring and laid out Zayn and Owens. Reigns flipped out and speared Zayn. The Usos climbed back into the ring and held the tag belts. Jey gave the belts to Sikoa while Jimmy held his longer than expected. Jey took them and gave the belts to Roman. Roman held both sets of tag belts as the family posed … except for Jimmy, who took exception in a corner. While holding both sets of tag belts, Roman talked to the camera as the show ended.

WWE SmackDown live results: Reigns & Sikoa face-to-face with Owens & Zayn

Posted on May 19, 2023 by Colin McGuire

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa will come face-to-face with undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens on tonight’s WWE SmackDown from Columbia, South Carolina.

The two teams will square off at next weekend’s Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia.

The show will also feature Jimmy & Jey Uso returning to the ring for the first time since they failed to regain the tag titles at Backlash as they take on Rey Mysterio & Santos Escobar following a confrontation last week.

Two recent NXT call-ups will make their presence felt as Grayson Waller will welcome AJ Styles to The Grayson Waller Effect. Styles will face Seth Rollins to determine the new WWE World Heavyweight Champion next weekend at the PPV.

Pretty Deadly (Elton Prince & Kit Wilson) will step into the ring against Ridge Holland & Butch after the teams confronted each other backstage on last week’s SmackDown.

Plus, Asuka takes on Zelina Vega. Our live coverage starts at 8 p.m. Eastern time.

**********

– Michael Cole welcomed everyone in as the show opened and Roman Reigns’s theme music hit. Reigns made his entrance with Paul Heyman and Solo Sikoa.

The Bloodline/Zayn & Owens segment

Before Reigns began talking, the crowd chanted “You suck!” Reigns responded by telling the crowd that’s not they start things. After Reigns hit the “Acknowledge me!” line, the crowd cheered, but things quickly turned as Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn’s respective music hit. Owens and Zayn made their way to the ring. The crowd sang Zayn’s music even after production cut it off.

Reigns said it was perfect because he was going to bring Owens and Zayn out anyway. Reigns demanded Zayn and Owens acknowledge him. After that, Reigns said they could drop off their titles and see their way out. Owens threw a mic down with his belts and stepped to Sikoa. Reigns settled the situation down and turned his attention to Zayn. Reigns said he only had one regret throughout his career and that was wasting his life on Zayn.

Zayn responded by saying he only had one regret, too, and that was not blasting him with a chair sooner. Zayn said Reigns’s greed has led them to this moment. Zayn said Reigns has received everything he’s wanted in life, but at Night of Champions, Reigns isn’t going to get the tag titles, even though that’s what Reigns wants now. Zayn said Reigns just isn’t as good as Zayn, Owens and even the Usos.

Reigns started to speak, but Jey Uso came through the crowd and attacked Zayn. Jimmy soon followed and attacked Owens. The Usos celebrated, but Reigns stifled their celebration and said it was Reigns’s ring and Reigns had a plan. Reigns threw a fit and left the ring. On his way out, he accidentally ran into Sikoa and the show cut to a commercial break.

**********

– When the show returned, the Usos were pleading their case to Reigns in the back. Reigns asked them why they ran “random stuff out there.” Reigns screamed that he had something to say to Zayn, but he wasn’t able to say it because the Usos interfered. Reigns kicked the Usos out of his room.

**********

Pretty Deadly (Elton Prince & Kit Wilson) defeated Butch and Ridge Holland [8:06]

Pretty Deadly didn’t quite connect with the crowd the way I think a lot of people thought they would in their debut. Something felt like it was missing, but the duo has time to adjust. On the other side, Butch and Holland could stand to use some wins. Crowds seem to like them (along with Sheamus), but for whatever reason, it doesn’t feel like WWE decision-makers necessarily agree. WWE’s tag division is in a weird place because there’s the top – whomever from the Bloodline, Zayn, Owens – and then there’s everyone else. Imperium might be up soon and there’s always the Street Profits and the New Day, but as far as Butch/Holland and Pretty Deadly go … this just felt inconsequential.

Sheamus sat in on commentary as Butch and Wilson began the match. Prince quickly tagged in and Butch stomped on Pretty Deadly’s fingers. Holland tagged in and Prince received a shotgun dropkick from Butch on Butch’s way out of the ring. Holland suplexed Prince. Wilson got a blind tag and the two took Holland down. Prince came up from the sequence with blood running from his nose.

Prince and Wilson landed a combination leg-drop and splash on Holland for a two-count. Holland eventually got the hot tag to Butch with Wilson perched on Holland’s back. Butch took out both Prince and Wilson. Butch hit Wilson with a kick to the ear and Holland tagged in. Holland had both Prince and Wilson on his back and dropped them both. Holland and Butch landed stereo 10 Beats on both Pretty Deadly members. Almost immediately, Pretty Deadly hit Spilled Milk for the win.

**********

– Michael Cole threw to a “Superstar” Billy Graham tribute video. Graham died earlier this week.

**********

Asuka defeated Zelina Vega [6:08]

This was fine for what we saw of it (at least two minutes of the match was lost to a commercial break), but there was little doubt that Asuka would get the win, considering how she’s the one with a title match in a week. Still, it’s nice to see Vega get some shine and outside of a few awkward finishing seconds when the women appeared to be on separate pages as they traded pin attempts, it was a standard television match. Not great. Not terrible.

Asuka came at Vega quick, but Vega countered with a roll-through and dropkick. Vega went for a 619, but Asuka moved and dropped Vega on the announce table. Back in the ring, Asuka toyed with Vega by kicking Vega in the head. Vega fired up and landed a basement dropkick before getting Asuka in position for a 619 and got in the first part before heading to the top rope. Vega hit a Meteora for a two-count. The two traded some clunky pinning attempts, but Asuka sank in the Asuka Lock for the win. After the match, Bianca Belair ran to the ring to break the Asuka Lock, but Asuka got the best of it after spraying some mist in Belair’s face.

**********

The Grayson Waller Effect

Waller started the segment about reminding everyone about their history in NXT. Waller said Styles is a first-ballot Hall of Famer and asked Styles what winning the World Heavyweight Title would mean to him. Styles recalled that his latest injury put him on the shelf for longer than he’s ever been in his career and he’s been training harder than ever for his comeback. Styles said he wants the World Heavyweight Title more than air to breathe. Styles talked about Seth Rollins being on a movie set. Waller predicted that Rollins would win the title and Styles stood up. The two shared a stare down to end the segment.

**********

– The LWO was shown talking backstage. Santos Escobar said Latinos all around the world need to know what the LWO is about. Rey Mysterio said the Usos will find out what happens when they mess with the LWO and everyone traded handshakes.

**********

The Street Profits defeated LA Knight and Rick Boogs [3:56]

So, this was the segment that was cut last week, eh? Here’s hoping this gets the popular Knight on television more, though it’s not like a program with Rick Boogs is probably going to set the world on fire. The match was secondary to the Knight/Boogs angle, but it was fairly standard for what could be expected. Actually, if the point was to kickstart Knight, it’s odd that Boogs got more of the spotlight with the weightlifting tricks. So it goes. It’ll be interesting to see if WWE missed the mark on Knight and waited too long to give him a chance.

The crowd popped for Knight during his entrance. Knight cut a promo in the entry way saying he can beat the Profits with anybody and thus introduced Boogs. Montez Ford mocked Boogs to start the match and tried to clothesline the big guy. Boogs sold nothing. Boogs bench-pressed Ford over his head 10 times to little response from the crowd. Angelo Dawkins tagged in, but Boogs landed a shoulder tackle to take Dawkins down. Boogs then curled Dawkins as the crowd chanted. Knight tagged himself in and took Dawkins down with a double shoulder-tackle.

Knight slammed Dawkins and landed a leaping elbow on Dawkins for a two-count. Boogs tagged in, but Dawkins slipped away and tagged in Ford, who hit a cross-body on both Boogs and Knight. Ford landed a series of kicks on Boogs. With Boogs and Knight on the outside, Ford landed a Senton on them both. Back inside the ring, Ford hit a frog-splash on Boogs for the win. After the match, Knight got Boogs to his feet, only to attack Boogs and leave the ring.

**********

– Cameron Grimes was interviewed backstage by Megan Morant. Grimes said being on SmackDown feels like he’s living the dream. Grimes said he is determined to go straight to the top and, well, of course, to the moon.

**********

– Karrion Kross was shown speaking to nobody in particular. Scarlett pulled out one of her cards with AJ Styles on it, so it looks like we’re heading toward a Styles/Kross match, which begs the question … why the hell did the Grayson Waller Effect happen?

**********

Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn defeated Valentina Feroz and Yulisa Leon [1:16]

A basic squash coming to you directly from the hallowed halls of NXT. Dawn beat up everyone in sight to open the match. Fyre and Dawn ultimately made quick work out of Leon and Feroz by hitting their finisher for the win.

**********

– With Liv Morgan hurt, it was announced that Raquel Rodriguez will have to relinquish the women’s tag titles. A fatal four-way will happen and Raquel will have a mystery partner on her side to compete in said fatal four-way. Raquel then cut a promo backstage and was interrupted by Bayley and Iyo Sky. Bayley said next week, her and Iyo would like to face Rodriguez and a partner of Rodriguez’s choice.

**********

The Austin Theory Segment

Austin Theory stood in the ring with a microphone and said everyone knows who he is. Theory said last week, he was ganged up on by Bobby Lashley and Sheamus. The crowd gave him the “What?!” treatment. Theory said Lashley has a weird obsession with him, but he didn’t understand why Sheamus had a problem with him. Theory said he has things in common with Sheamus, like the fact that they both beat John Cena. Naturally, Sheamus’s music hit and Sheamus walked to the ring. Sheamus grabbed a microphone, but then instantly hit a Brogue Kick on Theory, dropped the mic and left the ring to end the segment.

**********

– Backstage, Paul Heyman spoke to the Usos and said Roman Reigns forgave them. The Usos asked Heyman if Reigns would be out to support them during their match, but Heyman said Reigns wouldn’t be out there. Heyman said the Usos are only facing the LWO, so it should be an easy win. The Usos walked out of the frame as Heyman grabbed his phone.

– Next week, The KO Show returns with guests Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns. Karrion Kross will face off against AJ Styles. Sheamus will take on Austin Theory for the United States Championship. And Raquel Rodriguez, with a mystery partner, will step in the ring with Bayley and Iyo Sky.

**********

The LWO (Rey Mysterio Jr. & Santos Escobar) defeated Jimmy & Jey Uso [14:21]

This was a worthy main event that had some exceptional false finishes, especially when it comes to what we normally see on weekly WWE television. The story of the Usos being drowned in disappointment continues, and it sure does feel like the powder keg will finally blow things to smithereens at Night Of Champions, but we’ll see. In the meantime, it’s fun to see the LWO get so much booking love, being put in meaningful matches and in this case, landing a meaningful win. This match had great action and it benefited from the mystery of who might come out on top. Good stuff from everyone involved.

Mysterio and Jey started the match, but Jimmy quickly tagged in and the two Usos worked over Rey. Mysterio fought back and Escobar tagged himself in as the LWO took control, ran the Usos out of the ring and posed as the show went to a commercial break. When the show returned from break, the Usos had the upper-hand on Escobar inside the ring. Reigns and Sikoa were shown watching the match on a television backstage.

Escobar eventually dropkicked Jimmy to slow things down and tease a hot tag, but Jey tagged in and kept the Usos in control. Jimmy tagged in and landed some strikes on Escobar in a corner. Escobar got some life when he kneed Jimmy and landed the hot tag to Mysterio. Jey tagged in and Mysterio hit a springboard cross-body for a two-count. Jey kicked Mysterio in the midsection, but Mysterio responded with a Destroyer and a two-count.

Jimmy interfered and kicked Mysterio in the back of the head. Jey then landed a neck-breaker for a good near-fall. Jimmy tagged in and lifted Rey, but Rey kicked his way out. Rey then took the Usos over the top to the outside. Escobar tagged in and hit a splash onto the Usos on the outside. Back inside the ring, Jimmy and Santos traded blows. Mysterio tagged in and went to the top, where he landed a leg-drop on Jimmy, but Jey broke up the pin attempt. Jey super-kicked Escobar and Rey threw Jey to the outside. Rey went for the 619, but Jey broke it up and hit an Uso Splash for a very good near-fall. The Usos went to the top, but Kevin Owens showed up and distracted the Usos while Samy Zayn interfered. Rey hit the 619 on Jimmy, Escobar hit a splash from the top and that was enough for the win. The show ended with a shot of a disappointed Roman Reigns in the back.

WWE SmackDown live results: World title tournament continues

Posted on May 12, 2023 by Colin McGuire

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns will make his return to SmackDown in Knoxville, Tennessee, in his first appearance since the night after WrestleMania edition of Raw.

Tonight’s show will feature two triple threat matches in the WWE World Heavyweight title tournament.

In one, it will be Edge vs. AJ Styles vs. Rey Mysterio. This will be Styles’ first match since breaking his ankle at a late-December house show. In the other, WWE United States Champion Austin Theory will face Sheamus and Bobby Lashley.

The winners of each match will square off later in the night to determine who faces Seth Rollins at Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia later this month to crown the new champion.

WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez will defend their gold against Bayley & Dakota Kai of Damage CTRL following the challengers’ non-title win over the champions last week.

**********

– Michael Cole welcomed everyone in, saying we are on the road to crowning the World Heavyweight Champion. Cole and Wade Barrett mentioned that Roman Reigns was going to appear later and Edge’s music hit. We went right into the first match because the Styles and Mysterio entrances were not televised.

AJ Styles defeated Edge and Rey Mysterio Jr. [16:13]

Styles got the win in one of the better opening matches on WWE television in recent memory. I was surprised to see how long this went, but the guys worked really hard despite a few clunky moments. With Edge cutting that social media promo earlier in the week, they had me wondering who might come out on top, which is a rarity in WWE. The match held its own in that it followed up said promo with a worthy pay-off. Add in a few interesting, creative double-team moves and you had a very good first half-hour of wrestling TV.

Mysterio and Styles tried to team up on Edge to begin the match, but Edge came right back with some stiff shots to both opponents. There were a series of three-person team moves that didn’t work great before Edge landed a reverse DDT on Styles for a two-count. Styles eventually regained control with a forearm to Edge and a tilt-a-whirl back-breaker to Mysterio.

Mysterio got his turn to take control and went for a splash on Edge, who caught Mysterio for a fallaway slam. Edge went for a spear, but Styles and Mysterio caught Edge with a double boot. Mysterio landed a Canadian Destroyer on Edge for a nice early match near-fall. With Edge and Mysterio on the outside, Styles took both out and we went to our first break.

When we returned, Styles had Mysterio lifted on the apron, but Mysterio fought out of it. Edge came through the middle rope and speared them both to the floor, inspiring the crowd to chant “Holy s—.” Mysterio and Edge rolled into the ring and Mysterio got a two-count. Edge got up and stomped on Mysterio before Styles threw Edge to the outside. Inside, Styles worked a calf-crusher on Mysterio, but Edge added a cross-face on Mysterio as well. The spot ended with a series of headbutts between Styles and Edge.

Styles and Edge traded blows until Mysterio set both guys up for a 619, but Mysterio ran into a double-dropkick from Styles and Edge, who then double-clotheslined each other. Edge ran Styles into the middle turnbuckle and went to the top, but Mysterio cut Edge off. Styles broke it up via a powerbomb on Mysterio for a two-count. Styles went for Edge and Styles was joined by Mysterio, who landed a sunset flip on Styles, who super-plexed Edge, for a good two-count.

Mysterio set up Edge for a 619, but Styles cut Mysterio off. From there, Mysterio went for another 619, but Edge countered into Edge-ucator on Mysterio. Edge did the same to Styles, but Styles made it to the ropes for a break. Mysterio then came back for another 619 attempt on Edge. Mysterio went for something on Edge, but something was miscommunicated and nothing quite happened. From there, Styles hit the Phenomenal Forearm on Edge and got the pin.

**********

– Michael Cole recapped The Usos/Sami Zayn/Kevin Owens storyline and Sheamus made his entrance for the second WWE World Heavyweight title tournament match.

Bobby Lashley defeated Austin Theory and Sheamus [13:00]

It felt like a surprising win for Lashley because Theory was the only traditional heel in the match and a babyface won the other tournament match of the night, but so it goes. Lashley was bleeding pretty heavily, and it made me wonder if they went home early because of it, but kudos to Lashley for working through it. That’s two matches in the first 45 minutes of SmackDown, which is/was always welcome. All three involved worked hard here as well, but the first match packed more of a punch for reasons I can’t quite articulate. It was nice to see a couple surprise winners for these matches, though.

Austin Theory went to the outside after the bell rang, but Lashley and Sheamus chased him, pounded on him and threw him back inside the ring. Lashley clotheslined Theory to the outside and worked over Sheamus until Sheamus landed a slam on Lashley for a one-count. Sheamus set up Lashley for 10 Beats, but Theory broke it up, only to then be the victim himself of 10 Beats. From there, we went to break.

Back from commercial, Lashley was beating up Theory on the outside. Lashley ran Theory into a ring post and returned to the ring to stare down Sheamus. Lashley and Sheamus brawled. With Sheamus went to the top and went for an elbow, but Lashley caught him and threw him before going for the Hurt Lock until Theory broke up the attempt with a dropkick. Theory hit a Blockbuster on Lashley for a two-count.

Theory stomped a mud hole in Sheamus and clotheslined Lashley over the top rope. Theory ran Lashley into the ring steps. Theory went for a rolling DDT, but Sheamus countered with the Irish Curse. Sheamus hit a series of clotheslines on Theory and hit a middle-rope White Noise for a two-count on Theory. Sheamus lifted Theory, but Theory rolled through for a two-count. Sheamus came right back with a knee to Theory’s head.

Sheamus riled up the crowd, but ran into a spear from Lashley. Theory threw Lashley into the ring post and tried a cover on Sheamus for a two-count. Theory went for A-Town Down, but Lashley, who was bleeding heavily from his head, went for the hurt lock. Sheamus broke up with with a Brogue Kick and Lashley threw Sheamus out of the ring and covered Theory himself for the win.

**********

– Adam Pearce was shown on the phone backstage, but he was interrupted by Grayson Waller, who said the winner of Styles/Lashley should appear on the Grayson Waller Effect next week. Pearce obliged. We went back to the ring and Baron Corbin was already in the ring as Cameron Grimes made his entrance.

Cameron Grimes defeated Baron Corbin [0:06]

There wasn’t much to this, but I’m happy to see Grimes not get buried right away. We didn’t see too much from him during his last months on NXT, so here’s hoping he gets some love on the main roster. Poor Corbin. At least he still has Paris.

Before the bell rang, Corbin introduced Grimes as the last pick in the draft. Corbin said Grimes had guts and in two minutes, Grimes would be on his way back to NXT. Grimes hit the Cave-In as soon as the bell rang for the win.

**********

– We received a video package recapping the Cody Rhodes/Brock Lesnar feud.

– Roman Reigns’s music hit and Knoxville loved them some Roman Reigns. Reigns was accompanied by the entire Bloodline. Reigns stood in the ring and soaked in a crowd that didn’t not like him. When Reigns asked Knoxville to acknowledge him, the crowd so. Reigns said greatness garners respect. Reigns said there’s only one royal family in the wrestling business and it’s the family in the ring. The crowd gave Reigns the “What?” treatment.

Reigns said Solo Sikoa stepped up at Backlash. Reigns said there was initial concern with taking Sikoa on the road because it was sink or swim for Sikoa, but Sikoa proved he swims like a shark. The crowd broke into a “Sami!” chant. Reigns said Sami and Kevin Owens aren’t the problem, but there is a problem. Roman said the problem was Sikoa’s brothers. Sikoa nodded.

Reigns confronted the Usos, asking them if they thought they weren’t going to talk about them losing at WrestleMania. Reigns called the Usos out for dedicating a tag-team match to Reigns and then losing. Reigns said they disrespected the family bloodline. Reigns said the Usos embarrassed him. Reigns demanded an apology from the Usos. The crowd chanted “No!” Daniel Bryan style. Reigns palm-faced Jimmy Uso. Jey got in the way of a confrontation and apologized. He said if they get one more shot, they’ll bring the titles back to the Bloodline.

Reigns called on Paul Heyman to make an announcement. Heyman said there will be a tag title match at Night Of Champions when Owens and Zayn face Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns. Reigns said he will dedicated the match to Afa and Sika, the greatest tag-team of all time. Reigns and Sikoa left the ring as the Usos stood in the ring, looking concerned.

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– Kayla Braxton welcomed in Damage CTRL for an interview backstage. Bayley said she and Roman have so much in common, being Grand Slam champions and exceptional leaders. Bayley told Iyo not to worry about her loss at Backlash because maybe Iyo wasn’t ready yet. Bayley told Kayla to tell Roman that SmackDown belongs to Damage CTRL. Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez’s music hit and we went back to the ring for the women’s tag title match. Before the match began, we got a Backlash recap video. From there, the Usos confronted the LWO backstage. The Usos mean-mugged them and walked away.

Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez defeated Bayley and Dakota Kai [8:09]

Liv and Raquel won in a match longer than expected, but a fine match nonetheless. The miscommunication between Damage CTRL continues, but for me, it’s veering on the verge of overstaying its welcome. Maybe I’m wrong, but Bayley felt like a top-tier star in WWE not all that long ago, but since she came back, this faction hasn’t worked as well as anyone thought it would. It’s nobody’s fault. It’s just time for all three to move on. As for Liv and Raquel … it’s hard to buy into them being long-term champs, but perhaps that’s part of the charm. Let’s hope they’re in line for a meaningful program.

Rodriguez worked over Dakota Kai to begin the match. Morgan tagged in and threw Rodriguez into Kai. Morgan covered Kai for a two-count. Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn were shown watching the match on a TV backstage. Kai came back with a punch to Morgan and tagged in Bayley. Morgan rolled up Bayley for a two-count. Bayley eventually pinned Morgan for a two-count after her and Kai worked Morgan over. Then, we got a break.

We returned to action and Rodriguez received the hot tag from Morgan. Rodriguez hit a fallaway slam on Kai. Rodriguez took out both Kai and Bayley. Morgan tagged in and was promptly thrown into the challengers multiple times. The ring cleared out for Bayley and Morgan. Kai got a blind tag in and kicked Morgan in the head. Bayley held Morgan and Kai landed a double-knees to Morgan. Kai went for the pin, but Rodriguez broke it up at the last second. Bayley tagged in and told Sky to give Bayley one of the titles. Rodriguez stopped the exchange and as a result, Morgan rolled up Bayley for the win.

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– Backstage, the Brawling Brutes were talking and then interrupted by Pretty Deadly. The Brutes didn’t take kindly to it. Sheamus then went out for a pint. The crew was shown setting up the ring for Bianca Belair’s championship celebration.

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– Bianca Belair made her entrance to a nice hometown pop. Her family was in the front row. Before the celebration could really kick off, Asuka’s music hit and Asuka hurriedly got to the ring. Asuka extended a hand and the two shook hands until Asuka spit mist into Belair’s face. Belair sold the hell out of it. We went backstage to see AJ Styles warming up for the main event.

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– Belair was flipping out backstage in the trainer’s room as the show returned from commercial.

– Next week, Owens and Zayn will meet Reigns and Sikoa face to face. Mysterio and Santos Escobar will go up against the Usos. Also up for next week is the Brawling Brutes vs. Pretty Deadly. This is on top of the Grayson Waller Effect, which will feature the winner of Lashley vs. Styles.

AJ Styles defeated Bobby Lashley [12:03]

Styles won in a match where both guys slowed down considerably from their first match of the night. That’s not shade. That’s just that. You have to feel for Lashley, who had his head busted open twice in one night to ultimately not even get to the finals of this tournament. Styles vs. Rollins should be very good-to-great when it comes to in-ring work. Here’s hoping they get the time to do it. This match, meanwhile, wasn’t ever in doubt much because Styles vs. Rollins was always going to be the best match WWE could get out of the finals of this tournament. Maybe? Hopefully?

The two locked up to begin the best match TNA never saw in 2009 (or maybe it did?). They felt each other out as Barrett played up the fact that Lashley lost a bunch of blood in his first match of the night. Styles went for a chop, but Lashley stopped him with some elbows and a boot to the face. Lashley threw Styles over the top rope as the action spilled outside. Lashley ran Styles into the apron before running Styles into a ring post. We got a commercial break after that.

Returning from break, Lashley had control, but Styles quickly came back with a handful of kicks to Lashley’s legs. Lashley immediately got back the upper hand until Styles rolled Lashley into a calf crusher. Lashley worked out of it, but Styles kept control with some right hands and a DDT for a two-count. Lashley’s head was busted open again. Styles responded with punches to Lashley’s head. Styles lifted Lashley, but Lashley countered into a suplex for a two-count.

Styles came back with a sliding punch, but Lashley went for the Hurt Lock and locked it in (pun intended) until Styles got to the ropes for a break. The action spilled outside, where Lashley went to run Styles into a ring post, but Styles countered and ran Lashley into a ring post before rolling Lashley back into the ring. Styles teased the Phenomenal Forearm, but Lashley cut him off and lifted Styles for a suplex, but Styles fought out of it. It worked until Lashley caught Styles for a running powerslam and a two-count.

Lashley went for a spear, but instead hit the ring post as Styles moved. Styles then landed a knee to Lashley’s head. Styles hit the Phenomenal Forearm for the win. The broadcast team ran down the Night of Champions card. Styles and The OC celebrated by the World Heavyweight title to close the show.