WWE SmackDown video highlights: ‘Bargain basement Taz ripoff’

WWE finished building to Crown Jewel on Friday night’s episode of SmackDown.

With WWE traveling to Saudi Arabia for Crown Jewel, last night’s show was taped in advance. It included the final confrontations between Roman Reigns & LA Knight, John Cena & Solo Sikoa, and Rey Mysterio & Logan Paul before Saturday’s premium live event.

Cena eviscerated Sikoa on the mic during their face-to-face, calling Sikoa a “bargain basement Taz ripoff.” Cena also said Sikoa only has a job because of Roman Reigns.

Taz made a social media post responding to his name being mentioned:

https://twitter.com/OfficialTAZ/status/1720612353945764008

In the main event of SmackDown, Bianca Belair defeated Bayley. The rest of Damage CTRL were banned from ringside for the match after they had attacked Belair during a backstage interview earlier in the episode. The show went off the air with Belair giving Bayley a KOD through the announce table.

Belair is challenging IYO SKY for the WWE Women’s Championship at Crown Jewel.

More coverage from last night —

WWE SmackDown video highlights —

Roman Reigns and LA Knight go face-to-face

Kevin Owens vs. Austin Theory

Damage CTRL attack Bianca Belair during backstage interview

B-Fab requests a meeting with Bobby Lashley

Charlotte Flair teams with Shotzi against Chelsea Green & Piper Niven

John Cena calls Solo Sikoa a bargain basement Taz ripoff

Donnybrook Rules match: The Brawling Brutes vs. Pretty Deadly

Rey Mysterio/Logan Paul Crown Jewel weigh-in

Bianca Belair vs. Bayley

SmackDown fallout: Shotzi & Charlotte Flair discuss their odd-couple team

SmackDown fallout: Pretty Deadly claim to be 100 percent after Donnybrook match

WWE Crown Jewel preview & predictions: A new babyface has entered the game

WWE heads back to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this Saturday for Crown Jewel (1 PM Eastern on Peacock/WWE Network) with Roman Reigns once again set to defend his undisputed Universal title against a top babyface who has been surging in popularity.

Having LA Knight challenge Reigns so quickly during his rise in popularity is an interesting choice. Assuming he’s not winning the title at Crown Jewel, WWE will want to keep him as strong as possible in losing. He would then join a long and growing list of wrestlers who would have beaten Reigns if it weren’t for outside interference or otherwise underhanded bad-guy tactics. It’s possible WWE fans have just seen this finish too many times now.

Still, if WWE can find a unique and creative way to screw Knight out of winning the title, I’m not expecting his momentum to be halted much. Whatever damage is done can likely be rectified with a strong promo on the following SmackDown. Fans are into Knight because he’s entertaining, not because he’s being portrayed as Goldberg-level unstoppable. It’ll be fine.

Crown Jewel is also the first WWE PLE since it was reported that Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque is once again in full control of the company’s creative. Although, it feels as though WWE Fastlane was pretty much a full Levesque show too. Still, barring any unexpected power play by Vince McMahon, it looks like we are finally going to see what Triple H’s long-term plans are for this company.

Another thing to look out for on Saturday is any storyline developments that could lead into Survivor Series later this month. All signs point to WarGames returning at the event this year, so some battle lines could be drawn at Crown Jewel.

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns (-5000 favorite) defends against LA Knight

If you’re a big fan of watching someone almost beat Reigns only to have the win snatched away from them due to outside interference, boy do I have the match for you!

In the months leading up to WrestleMania, there were numerous title matches where it seemed as though Reigns could actually lose. Many fans felt Drew McIntyre had a chance to win at Clash at the Castle last year. Some fans in Montreal believed Sami Zayn had a chance to beat Reigns at Elimination Chamber. Most fans thought Cody Rhodes would beat him at WrestleMania. 

It doesn’t feel like that anymore. Now, fans believe nobody is going to beat Reigns until WrestleMania. The betting world concurs as the champion is the biggest favorite of the night.

That Knight is being booked in this match at all is interesting. It seems a little early during his rise in popularity to be putting him in a high-profile match where he’s most likely going to lose.

It’s pretty tough to be a top babyface in WWE right now when all roads lead to Reigns who nobody beats. Zayn is not as popular now as he was before he lost in Montreal, although you could argue he was never going to maintain the hot streak he was on. On the other hand, Rhodes seems to have come out from his loss to Reigns relatively unscathed. Time will tell what impact Saturday’s result will have on Knight’s trajectory.

Prediction: Reigns retains

WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins (-400 favorite) defends against Drew McIntyre

I’m surprised Rollins isn’t a bigger favorite. I absolutely do not recommend gambling on wrestling past something friendly with friends but if I were to, I’d put some money on the champion.

Eventually, Damian Priest is going to cash in his Money in the Bank briefcase and take the title off Rollins so it seems likely that Rollins will hold the belt until then.

McIntyre will lose here, but he will do so in a way where his character feels cheated. Then, the bitterness will start to eat at him just like it eats at his character that his big WrestleMania moment occurred in front of no fans. He’ll then move further into the bad guy who feels justified role similar to Bret Hart in 1997 which Dave Meltzer wrote is the inspiration for McIntyre’s current story.

Prediction: Rollins retains

WWE Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley (-2500 favorite) defends against Nia Jax (+800), Raquel Rodriguez (+500), Shayna Baszler (+1200) and Zoey Stark (+1200) in a fatal five-way

It doesn’t feel like the right time to take the title off Ripley. I’m not sure if that time will come anytime soon either as she’s been the MVP of Raw as of late.

What this match will likely do is build up the next real challenger. Someone other than Ripley will have the match won, but the champion will do something dastardly to steal the victory out from under them. She’ll then defend the title against that wrestler at Survivor Series.

Prediction: Ripley retains

WWE Women’s Champion IYO SKY (-300 favorite) defends against Bianca Belair

I wouldn’t be surprised to see Belair win the title, but it seems a little fast for her to regain it.

It’s been a weird ride for Damage CTRL. They debuted at SummerSlam last year as Levesque took the creative reins. Then as he lost said reins, we started to get a storyline that seemed to be leading to the breakup of the group. Now that Levesque is back in charge, those breakup teases don’t happen anymore. The sudden cohesion of this group was what first signified to some that Vince McMahon was no longer in charge. However, that doesn’t mean IYO isn’t dropping the belt to Belair on Saturday.

I’m expecting this to go similar to the Charlotte Flair vs. SKY match from a few weeks back on SmackDown. Bayley will help the champion secure the underhanded victory. Eventually, this title is going back on Flair. It’s just not clear when that will be.

Prediction: SKY retains

WWE United States Champion Rey Mysterio defends against Logan Paul (-600 favorite)

I’m surprised Paul isn’t a bigger favorite. Having him bring the United States Championship to all the media appearances he makes, having it on display during his YouTube show, and whatever else Paul does will be great marketing for the company.

Paul will cheat to beat Mysterio and then he’ll taunt the LWO with the belt on social media which could lead to a rematch at Survivor Series.

Prediction: Paul wins the title

Cody Rhodes (-700 favorite) vs. Damian Priest

Rhodes is a heavy favorite and will very likely win, but these are two guys WWE wants to keep strong. I wouldn’t rule out some type of non-finish here.

Rhodes is being kept strong for another big match against Reigns, possibly in the main event of WrestleMania. He’s 8-1 in singles matches on WWE programming since WrestleMania 39 with his only loss being a referee stoppage to Brock Lesnar at Night of Champions. However, Rhodes avenged that loss and won the trilogy 2-1 after beating Lesnar at SummerSlam.

Priest is being kept strong too, though quite possibly because he’ll soon take the World Heavyweight title off Rollins. He hasn’t lost a singles match on WWE programming since June. Priest seems like he’s been getting pushed since his match against Bad Bunny at Backlash in May. WWE likely decided they had something with him around that time.

This match is two guys being built up for big matches that are not against each other so it’ll be interesting to see what the finish is.

Prediction: Rhodes

John Cena (-120 favorite) vs. Solo Sikoa

While Cena’s role at this stage in his career is to put over young stars, I’m not certain that is what he will be doing in Riyadh on Saturday.

Normally, this would be a good opportunity for Cena to make Sikoa look like an unstoppable monster. Complicating this, however, is the storyline about how Cena hasn’t won a singles match on WWE programming since 2018. Granted, Cena has only wrestled three singles matches on WWE programming in that time (he’s won several singles matches on house shows and TV dark matches), but still, the storyline they are telling could lead one to believe that Cena has to win.

Sikoa could still win, though, causing Cena to further question if he still has it anymore, perhaps promising to retire if he doesn’t win his next big match or something similar.

I imagine we could see some callbacks and homages to Cena’s rivalry with Sikoa’s uncle Umaga during this match which includes one of the best matches in both Cena and Umaga’s careers: their Last Man Standing war at the 2007 Royal Rumble.

Prediction: Cena

Kickoff Show: Sami Zayn vs. JD McDonagh

There are no betting odds available for this match, but if there were, I imagine Zayn would be the biggest favorite of the night. This will be a fun match by two very good wrestlers and will give fans a chance to cheer Zayn on.

Prediction: Zayn

John Cena to address Solo Sikoa on WWE SmackDown

John Cena will be on tonight’s WWE SmackDown. 

Earlier today, WWE announced that Cena will wrestle Solo Sikoa at Crown Jewel. The promotion later revealed that Cena will address the upcoming match tonight on SmackDown. 

“After People Magazine broke the news that John Cena will face The Bloodline’s Solo Sikoa at WWE Crown Jewel, The Greatest of All Time is set to address perhaps the most dangerous obstacle in his storied career,” WWE.com reads. 

WWE is also advertising that Bianca Belair will be on SmackDown tonight as well after she returned on last week’s episode. 

“After spending nearly two months on the shelf thanks to a vicious attack by Damage CTRL, Bianca Belair returned with a purpose just moments after IYO SKY retained the WWE Women’s Championship against Charlotte Flair last week,” reads WWE.com.

According to WrestleTix, 11,363 tickets have been distributed to tonight’s show at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee as of earlier today. The show will air on FS1 due to coverage of Game One of the World Series. 

Also announced for SmackDown is a contract signing with Roman Reigns and LA Knight for their match at Crown Jewel. The LWO’s Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar are also scheduled to wrestle The Street Profits on the show. 

WWE SmackDown October 27 advertised lineup:

  • Roman Reigns, LA Knight contract signing
  • Rey Mysterio & Santos Escobar vs. Street Profits (Montez Ford & Angelo Dawkins)
  • John Cena will appear
  • Bianca Belair is back

John Cena to face Solo Sikoa at WWE Crown Jewel

John Cena’s match for WWE Crown Jewel in Saudi Arabia has now been officially confirmed.

WWE has announced that Cena vs. Solo Sikoa will be part of the card for Crown Jewel. The show is taking place from Saudi Arabia on Saturday, November 4. It will air live on Peacock/WWE Network with a start time of 1 p.m. Eastern.

At Fastlane earlier this month, Cena & LA Knight defeated Sikoa & Jimmy Uso in a tag team match. Knight is challenging Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship at Crown Jewel.

A brawl between Cena and Sikoa took place on SmackDown last Friday. It ended with Cena laying out Sikoa with an Attitude Adjustment. Jimmy Uso got involved in the brawl at one point, but Jey Uso appeared and provided backup for Cena.

With Hollywood on strike, Cena has made an extended return to WWE this fall.

Cena hasn’t won a televised singles match since defeating Triple H at the Greatest Royal Rumble in 2018.

The updated lineup for Crown Jewel is listed below:

  • Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns defends against LA Knight
  • World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins defends against Drew McIntyre
  • Women’s World Champion Rhea Ripley defends against Nia Jax, Raquel Rodriguez, Shayna Baszler, and Zoey Stark in a fatal five-way match
  • United States Champion Rey Mysterio defends against Logan Paul
  • Cody Rhodes vs. Damian Priest
  • John Cena vs. Solo Sikoa

WWE Fastlane live results: John Cena & LA Knight vs. The Bloodline

LA Knight gets his megastar moment as he teams up with John Cena on tonight’s Fastlane pay-per-view from Indianapolis.

Cena & Knight are taking on The Bloodline’s Jimmy Uso & Solo Sikoa. Two weeks ago, Knight was revealed as Cena’s Fastlane partner when he saved Cena from a Bloodline attack. AJ Styles was originally aligned with Cena against The Bloodline, but Styles was taken out in a beatdown by Jimmy Uso and Sikoa.

Shinsuke Nakamura gets another chance to become World Heavyweight Champion when he challenges Seth Rollins tonight. Rollins retained the title against Nakamura at Payback last month. Their rematch has a Last Man Standing Stipulation.

IYO SKY defends her WWE Women’s Championship against Charlotte Flair and Asuka in a triple threat match. The Undisputed WWE Tag Team titles will also be defended in a match pitting Finn Balor & Damian Priest against Cody Rhodes & Jey Uso.

Plus, Rey Mysterio & Santos Escobar will have a mystery partner as they face off against Bobby Lashley & The Street Profits in a six-man tag.

Tonight’s PPV streams live on Peacock/WWE Network at 8 p.m. Eastern time. There is also an hour-long pre-show leading into the event.

**********

KICKOFF SHOW

Kayla Braxton welcomed us to the Kickoff show and announced that tonight’s Premium Live Event was sold out with an attendance of 14,529 members of the WWE Universe in Indianapolis, Indiana tonight. Braxton then introduced tonight’s panel of Jackie Redmond, Booker T, Wade Barrett and Peter Rosenberg before the group did a rundown of tonight’s matches.

After they showed a video preview of tonight’s Six-Man Tag Team match, Rey Mysterio was backstage with a concerned Santos Escobar. Escobar wanted to know if Mysterio was able to get through to his contact for tonight’s upcoming match and Rey stated that he knows they read the message but that he hasn’t received a response. Mysterio stated that they would get through this tonight.

Before the panel showed a video preview of the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship match tonight, Byron Saxton was backstage with Paul Heyman. Saxton referred to LA Knight and John Cena as the “Mega Tandem” and Heyman took immediate offense. Heyman stated that it would be an easy victory for The Bloodline tonight because they’re family. Saxton then asked what if The Bloodline lost and Heyman went ballistic on Saxton, making fun of his attire tonight, calling him a canary and requesting that Kayla Braxton do the interview next time.

After they previewed the tag team title match, in what could be the highlight of the night, Booker T and Wade Barrett competed in what could be called a “Trick Off” as they showed Trick Williams’ entrance from NXT No Mercy last Saturday night. Both Booker and Barrett shared their own lyrics and “dance moves” during a replay of William’s entrance which had both Braxton and Redmond in hysterics.

The panel previewed the tag team match between LA Knight & John Cena against The Bloodline but before they could make their picks, Redmond informed us that Cathy Kelley was backstage with Damage CTRL. After Kelley asked a question, Bayley put her down and asked her if this was her first day on the job. Bayley then started praising IYO SKY  and the game plan for tonight but SKY cut her off. IYO stated that she had her own game plan and that she didn’t need Damage CTRL tonight before walking off. Bayley then stormed off as well as Dakota Kai looked upset.

In the final moments of the Kickoff show, a long white stretch limo arrived into the arena. When the limo door opened, a stunning looking Jade Cargill appeared and was met by Triple H as the panel watched on with excitement.

**********

MAIN SHOW

Fastlane opened with former Indianapolis Colt and WWE Superstar Pat McAfee providing the Cold Open.

Cody Rhodes & Jey Uso defeated The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor & Damian Priest) to become the new Undisputed WWE Tag Team champions

This match was great! I fully didn’t expect a title change but with the way JD McDonagh accidentally nailed Damian Priest with the briefcase, it sets up massive implications for the championship match between Seth ‘Freakin’ Rollins and Shinsuke Nakamura. If they play up an injury to Priest’s leg then we probably won’t see a cash-in tonight. However, if Priest is out for blood after losing his titles after the misstep by McDonagh, he may not want to leave the arena without a championship in hand. 

Uso and Priest started the match with Damian outpowering the much smaller Jey in the opening moments but Jey would hold his own using his speed and agility before making the tag to Rhodes. Cody came into the match and immediately focused on the leg of Priest before tagging Uso back into the match.

Priest made the tag to Bálor, once again using his size and strength and after Rhodes and Uso had been showing some great tag team chemistry, the champions started connecting making quick tags back and forth.

As Uso was being worn out by both Bálor and Priest for the next several moments, Rhodes was becoming frustrated on the ring apron not being able to tag in. After a misstep by Priest, Uso was able to finally make the hot tag to Cody.

A fired up Rhodes took out Bálor with a Disaster Kick but could only mange a two count. Bálor would attempt a comeback that included him heading to the top rope for his Coup de Grace but Rhodes caught him and nailed a massive delayed vertical suplex.

Rhodes made the tag to Uso and Bálor was able to make the tag to Priest and some back and forth, Priest attempted to land the Razor’s Edge but Jey escaped and nailed both Bálor and Priest on the outside with a dive through the ropes.

Back inside the ring and Priest was down and out in the middle and Uso went up top and landed his Uso Splash but Bálor was able to make the save before Rhodes nailed him with the Cody Cutter.

It was now back to Uso and Priest in the ring and Jey nailed Damiana with a massive spear but couldn’t capitalize as Dominik Mysterio and Rhea Ripley headed to ringside. Uso would lay out Mysterio on the outside and Ripley got in his face.

Back in the ring and Priest nailed Uso with a hurricanrana and Bálor followed up with his Coup de Grace but Rhodes made the save. Both teams then stood toe to toe before going to battle once more. JD McDonagh then arrived ringside and as chaos was taking place everywhere, Ripley nailed Uso with the briefcase but Bálor could only land a two count and was shocked.

Priest and Rhodes battled on the outside of the ring and as Damian attempted to put him through the announce table, McDonagh accidentally nailed Priest with the briefcase and Rhodes followed up with a Cross Rhodes wiping out Priest.

Bálor was now outnumbered and after Rhodes hustled back into the ring, Cody nailed Bálor with the Cross Rhodes and that was all she wrote as we had new tag team champions!

Backstage, Booker T was with Wade Barrett. Xavier Woods interrupted their conversation and talked out ordering pizza. Barrett looked like he was going to chew out Woods but played him instead. Tonight’s event was being sponsored by Pizza Hut.

The LWO (Rey Mysterio & Santos Escobar) & Carlito (w/Zelina Vega) defeated Bobby Lashley & The Street Profits

It was interesting to see them start the match as a 2-on-3 but it played out well with establishing Lashley and the Profits and a potential major force with their strength in numbers, almost completely wiping out The LWO in a matter of twenty-four hours. However, Carlito to the rescue and he got a great pop tonight too!

After Escobar made his entrance with Vega, Mysterio made his entrance with nobody by his side with it looking like it was going to be a 2-on-3 match.

Escobar and Montez Ford began the match and both men looked to gain momentum using speed and technical skills but due to the fact that Ford was a little bit too cocky, Escobar found himself with the advantage.

Escobar followed up with a standing hurricanrana where both men were standing on the top turnbuckle that looked absolutely incredible. Ford followed up with a chop block however and Lashley soon made his way into the match to dominate.

Escobar had made the tag to Mysterio and Rey was on the receiving end of the same beating that presumably began last night on SmackDown with the difference being that the Profits were legally allowed to take part tonight as well.

As Mysterio attempted to make a comeback, Ford yanked Escobar off of the ring apron which prompted Vega to get involved and wipe out Ford. As Vega cheered on a down and out Mysterio in the middle of the ring, a familiar music hit the air and Carlito made his way to the ring!

Carlito ran down to the ring and jumped up on the ring apron and reached his arm out to a relieved Mysterio who quickly made the tag.

Mysterio and Escobar played interference while Carlito looked great inside the ring for the first time since Backlash. As Ford was stunned, Carlito nailed his patented Backstabber to pickup the huge win for a grateful LWO.

– Footage was once again shown of Jade Cargill arriving to the arena in a limo and being met by Triple H backstage.

IYO SKY defeated Asuka & Charlotte Flair in a Triple Threat match to retain the WWE Women’s Championship

IYO SKY is one of the greatest pure performers, male or female, in the WWE it was great to see her get the pinfall victory over one of the greatest champions in WWE history. It’ll be interesting to see where they take things with Asuka clearly tapping to Charlotte’s Figure Eight but nonetheless, a HUGE victory for “The Genius of the Sky” tonight! 

SKY came down to the ring without Damage CTRL and after alll three women were introduced by Mike Rome, the bell rang and after SKY was sent to the outside, Asuka hit the mist to the face of Flair and it was almost a very quick victory for Asuka but SKY was able to save her title.

As Flair was being tended to by the officials on the outside of the ring, it became a singles match for the time being inside of the ring and SKY almost scored a victory of her own. As both women were down, an irate Flair reentered the match, landing a massive boot and started showing her power game to both women.

SKY would regain control of the match and Flair was soon on the outside once again. As both SKY and Asuka remained focused on one another, Flair climbed to the top rope and landed a great crossbody on both women before motioning the title was coming her way.

Flair followed up with a chop fest on both women and then after failing to land a double suplex on both of her opponents, finally was successful. With Flair looking dominant at this point, you almost got the sense that it was a 2-on-1 match.

After SKY looked to pickup the win after landing a sweet springboard sunset flip, action spilled to the outside. All three women hit high flying moves with the crowd booing Flair when she setup for her top rope moonsault to the floor.

Flair attempted to go to the top successfully once more but she was caught by SKY. Flair managed to get SKY up on her shoulders and as she looked to land an avalanche fallaway slam, Asuka caught up with both women and nailed a massive powerbomb.

Asuka attempted to get pins on both ladies but could only get two counts. Asuka attempted to start using her submission game on Flair but Charlotte countered into a Figure Eight but SKY nailed Flair with the Meteora. Both SKY and Asuka then locked in simultaneous submissions on Flair but Charlotte wouldn’t give up.

Asuka followed up by attacking SKY and when Flair recovered, she nailed Asuka with the Spear but could only get a two count. Bayley then made her way to ringside and as SKY was arguing with her, Flair nailed SKY with a boot to the face. Asuka attempted to capitalize on Flair but couldn’t get the victory and soon found herself trapped in the Figure Eight as SKY was nowhere in sight.

Bayley jumped up onto the ring apron to distract the referee as Asuka was purely tapping out. SKY then out of nowhere nailed Flair with her Over The Moonsault, shoved Asuka out of the way and scored the massive 1-2-3 to retain her title.

After the match, SKY and Bayley hugged to celebrate IYO’s victory.

– It was announced that the new WWE Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions, Cody Rhodes and Jey Uso would be part of the Fastlane Press Conference immediately following the event tonight.

– LA Knight was shown arriving to the arena earlier in the day in the Slim Jim car he was awarded with for winning the SummerSlam Battle Royal earlier this year.

John Cena & LA Knight defeated The Bloodline (Jimmy Uso & Solo Sikoa) (w/Paul Heyman)

Awesome to see John Cena still wrestling in 2023 but even more awesome to see just how over LA Knight truly is. I didn’t expect the hot tag to Knight to take as long as it did but Cena knows how to sell and when that tag was made, it was an awesome sight to see. Add the fact that Knight was the one to get the victory for his team and it was a great play on old school tag team matches building Knight up to be an even bigger WWE Superstar than he is already.

Before the match began, legendary Indianapolis Colt and WWE Superstar Pat McAfee came down to the ring wearing a Colts championship title. McAfee put over the city of Indianapolis, the fans in attendance and said Indianapolis deserved a WrestleMania. McAfee then introduced John Cena before making his was over to the announce table to call the match.

Cena began the match with Uso as the crowd paid their respect to Cena with a “Let’s go Cena!” chant. After Uso failed to gain the upper hand in the opening moments, he tagged in Sikoa where Cena was ready and willing to battle the enforcer of The Bloodline.

Sikoa challenged Cena to come at him and it was a bad idea by Cena and Sikoa nailed him with a stiff shot. Uso was tagged back in and as Cena was potentially seeing stars, Jimmy started showboating but still controlled the match.

Knight looked like he was starting to get impatient standing on the ring apron but he could do absolutely nothing at this point as Sikoa was tagged back in to dominate Cena with pure brute force. 

As Uso and Sikoa continued to make tags and make Cena suffer, Sikoa setup Cena in the corner and landed his massive hip attack as Cena looked like he was done for at this point.

Cena attempted a comeback but Sikoa wiped him out with a spinning heel kick. Uso was tagged back in and as Cena looked even more down and out, he nailed Uso with an Attitude Adjustment out of nowhere. Both men now looking to make tags and while Uso was successful, Sikoa cut off Cena as Knight was getting even more impatient.

Sikoa followed up with a Banzai Drop in the corner but Cena kicked out at two. Sikoa failed to follow it up and when he went for the same move again, Cena got his legs up and it was soon a race to both corners. Sikoa made the tag to Uso and finally, Knight got the hot tag!

Knight entered the ring a house of fire before Uso was able to hit a super kick. Uso went to the top for the Uso Splash but missed and Knight countered with his big elbow drop. Sikoa broke things up and Cena landed a flying crossbody off of the top rope (not a typo) on Sikoa. Uso then landed an Uso Splash on Cena as all four men were now down and out.

Cena went for the AA on Sikoa but was super kicked by Uso. Knight would eventually catch Uso on the top rope and landed a running superplex on Jimmy. Sikoa was knocked out of the ring and after Cena hit the Five Knuckle shuffle, Knight nailed Uso with the BFT to pickup the win for the “Mega Tandem”.

After the match, Knight raised Cena’s hand as the crowd cheered for both men.

– Backstage, The Judgment Day was contemplating not leaving Indianapolis without the World Heavyweight Championship as Priest wanted to cash-in. However, Ripley stated that tonight wasn’t the night as Damian handed his briefcase over to Rhea.

– A video promo aired for WWE Crown Jewel 2023 taking place on November 4th as a Premium Live Event.

Seth “Freakin” Rollins defeated Shinsuke Nakamura to retain the World Heavyweight Championship

I’ll be the first to admit, I definitely didn’t predict this one accurately. But wow, what a main event! Nakamura looked like the Nakamura of old in this match and how Rollins won this has me dumbfounded. When Nakamura spit that mist and Rollins went crashing through the announce table, I thought that was it and you could feel it from the crowd. Same thing when Nakamura hit the Kinshasa through a table and many more moments like that in this stellar main event. With that being said, I feel someone in the WWE is a fan of Rocky Balboa movies as if you’ve ever seen Rocky II, you’ll know exactly what I’m talking about when it came to the finish.

Nakamura began the match playing a cat and mouse game with Rollins before Seth reached under the ring and grabbed a kendo stick but failed to strike Shinsuke. After the match took to the outside, Rollins hit a suplex on Nakamura and attempted to follow up by ripping up the mat surrounding the ring but Nakamura was too quick for Seth.

It was moments after the match began and it was already starting to look like a car wreck at the Indy 500 as tables, chairs, garbage cans and kendo sticks were scattered everywhere. Nakamura managed to land a shot on the ring apron to Rollins before grabbing nunchuku underneath the ring. Nakamura attacked Rollins with the nunchuku and as Seth was trapped in a garbage can, Shinsuke followed up by attacking the can with kendo sticks.

As Nakamura continued his attack and then shifted once again to the champion’s back, Rollins was able to hit a Sling Blade and then follow it up kendo stick shots before landing a plancha through the ropes to the outside.

We’re back in the ring and Rollins nailed a frog splash but Nakamura was quick to make a comeback. As Rollins was setup in the corner against a table, Nakamura flew across the ring but missed and Seth followed up with the Stomp but Shinsuke was able to recover at the count of eight. Rollins took the match back outside the ring and after setting Nakamura on the announce desk, setup a ladder to create even more of a scene but Shinsuke was able to roll off of the desk before Rollins could fully climb the ladder.

Rollins followed Nakamura and the match was now into the stands but before Seth could capitalize, Nakamura managed to save himself by sending Rollins through a stage several feet below. Rollins recovered just before the count of ten and both men then headed back to the ringside area.

Rollins attempted to hit Nakamura with a Pedigree on the exposed concrete but he failed and back body dropped instead. Rollins once again recovered just before the count of ten and as the match headed back inside the ring, Seth successfully nailed Nakamura with the Pedigree. Nakamura recovered with half a second to spare and as the match headed once again to the outside, Nakamura nailed double knees on Rollins through a table.

As the match furiously went back and forth with neither Superstar wanting to give up, Rollins was hellbent on using the ladder. As he climbed it again, Nakamura climbed up the other side, hit him with red mist and sent Rollins crashing through the table below. Again, Rollins recovered at the count of nine!

We’re back inside the ring and Nakamura nailed Rollins with a massive Kinshasa through a table. Rollins at the count of 9.99 rolled out of the ring and landed on his feet to continue the match. What a match!

Both men then headed back up towards the stage area and Rollins nailed Nakamura with a Stomp. Rollins followed up with a huge Falcon Arrow through a table and as the referee got to the count of nine, Rollins rose and Nakamura collapsed and Rollins miraculously somehow walked away with his championship tonight. 

WWE SmackDown video highlights: The Bloodline take out Styles & Cena

AJ Styles and John Cena were left decimated by The Bloodline on last night’s SmackDown.

The episode was supposed to be headline by a contract signing for Cena & Styles vs. Solo Sikoa & Jimmy Uso at Fastlane. But before Styles could make it out for the signing, he was attacked by Sikoa and Jimmy backstage. The attack included Sikoa jumping off equipment and splashing Styles through a table.

Styles was stretchered out and taken away by ambulance as part of the angle.

Cena was already in the ring and had signed the contract for Fastlane. He tried to fight off Sikoa and Jimmy on his own, but they left him laying too. Sikoa gave Cena two Samoan Spikes and Jimmy hit a splash from the top rope.

Sikoa and Jimmy then signed the contract for Fastlane, meaning that Cena needs to find a partner for the match. It appears that LA Knight was going to be revealed as Cena’s partner, but Knight missed SmackDown last night due to testing positive for COVID-19.

Fastlane is taking place in Indianapolis on Saturday, October 7.

More coverage from last night —

WWE SmackDown video highlights —

John Cena & AJ Styles want a match against The Bloodline

The LWO vs. The Street Profits

Austin Theory doesn’t need The Rock to get 100 million views

Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn are responsible for WWE Women’s Tag Team title curse

Bobby Lashley isn’t happy with The Street Profits

IYO SKY vs. Asuka for the WWE Women’s Championship

Solo Sikoa says AJ Styles and John Cena won’t make it to Fastlane

Elton Prince’s road to recovery, part one

The Brawling Brutes vs. Austin Theory & Grayson Waller

Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa demolish AJ Styles

John Cena gets laid out by Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa

SmackDown fallout: Asuka wasn’t ready for IYO SKY

John Cena tag team match booked for WWE Fastlane

John Cena has a tag match at Fastlane, but doesn’t have a partner.

By the end of Friday’s SmackDown, John Cena had signed a contract pitting himself against Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso. AJ Styles had originally agreed to team with Cena. However, Sikoa and Uso attacked Styles backstage prior to the contract signing, sending him out in an ambulance after Sikoa splashed Styles off a platform. Cena confronted both Sikoa and Uso in the ring after Styles’ assault, but was laid out by both men to end the show.

Cena opened SmackDown saying he wanted to wrestle, with Styles coming out saying if The Bloodline wanted some, they could get some. It eventually turned into a show-long storyline where official Adam Pearce looked to sign the tag match. Paul Heyman agreed to the match as long as it wouldn’t take place on Friday’s show. Uso said they’d sign the contract in the ring. Heyman didn’t seem pleased by Uso’s move, saying decisions like that needed approval from the Tribal Chief. 

Since making his return earlier this month, Cena has gotten directly involved with The Bloodline, telling Uso at one point that the wrong brother had left SmackDown.

WWE SmackDown video highlights: Jey Uso defeats Solo Sikoa

Jey Uso has momentum on his side heading into SummerSlam.

In the main event of last night’s SmackDown, Jey was victorious against his younger brother Solo Sikoa. To send a message to Roman Reigns, Jey hit a spear on Sikoa at the end of the match. Jey then followed up with a top rope splash to get the win.

Sikoa attacked Jey after the match in an attempt to prevent Jey from making it to SummerSlam. But Jey was able to fight off the attack and beat Sikoa down with a steel chair.

Jey is facing Reigns in a Tribal Combat match at tonight’s pay-per-view. It’s an anything goes match for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship — and Reigns’ position as Head of the Table is also on the line. If Jey wins, he will become the new Tribal Chief.

Earlier in the show, Jey interrupted a segment with Paul Heyman. A fired up Jey said he’s bringing everything he has to SummerSlam. Jey vowed that he’s going to defeat Reigns.

More coverage from last night —

WWE SmackDown video highlights —

LA Knight runs down his SummerSlam battle royal competition

LA Knight vs. Sheamus

The Brawling Brutes vs. The O.C.

The Street Profits attack The O.C. and The Brawling Brutes

Charlotte Flair is the past, the present, and the future

Jey Uso is ready to become the new Tribal Chief

Austin Theory vs. Cameron Grimes

Asuka isn’t worried about Bianca Belair or Charlotte Flair

Shotzi crashes Bayley and IYO SKY’s appearance on The Grayson Waller Effect

Zelina Vega vs. IYO SKY

Bianca Belair doesn’t make excuses, she just gets back to work

Jey Uso vs. Solo Sikoa

Jey Uso fights off post-match attack, beats down Solo Sikoa with steel chair

SmackDown fallout: Jey Uso is bringing everything he has to SummerSlam

SmackDown fallout: Zelina Vega has her eyes on the WWE Women’s Championship

WWE SmackDown live results: The final stop before SummerSlam

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)

Jey Uso vs. Solo Sikoa announced for WWE SmackDown

Before challenging Roman Reigns at SummerSlam, Jey Uso will be in action on SmackDown tonight.

WWE has announced that Jey vs. Solo Sikoa is set for tonight’s SmackDown. The episode is taking place on the eve of SummerSlam.

At SummerSlam, Reigns and Jey are facing off in Tribal Combat. It’s an anything goes match where Reigns will defend both his Undisputed WWE Universal Championship and his title of Tribal Chief.

In recent weeks, Sikoa has been aligned with Reigns against The Usos. We haven’t seen Jimmy Uso since he was stretchered out following an attack by Reigns and Sikoa on SmackDown last month.

WWE.com wrote:

One day before Roman Reigns will battle his unhinged cousin Jey Uso for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship and control of The Bloodline, ‘The Real Chief’ will go head-to-head with his younger brother Solo Sikoa.

With Jey operating at a higher level heading into The Biggest Party of the Summer, will Sikoa deal him a crushing loss? Will Jey even make it to SummerSlam to battle The Head of the Table?

Don’t miss all the explosive action of SmackDown on the eve of SummerSlam, tonight at 8/7 C on FOX.

SmackDown is taking place from the Nutter Center in Dayton, Ohio tonight. Here’s everything that’s been announced for the episode:

  • Jey Uso vs. Solo Sikoa
  • WWE Women’s Champion Asuka, Bianca Belair, and Charlotte Flair will appear
  • Sheamus vs. LA Knight

WWE SmackDown video highlights: Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa lay out Jey Uso

Though he was able to pick up a victory in the main event, last night’s SmackDown didn’t end well for Jey Uso.

Jey defeated Grayson Waller on SmackDown but was attacked by Solo Sikoa immediately after the match. Jey momentarily fought off the attack and even delivered a spear to Roman Reigns, but the two-on-one advantage proved to be too much. Reigns and Sikoa beat down Jey before Reigns stood tall to close the episode.

Reigns and Sikoa laid out Jey with two combination spears/Samoan spikes during the beatdown. Jey didn’t have any backup because Jimmy Uso is still out of action after being demolished by Reigns and Sikoa three weeks ago.

Earlier in the night, Jey tried to open SmackDown but got interrupted by Reigns. Jey vowed that he will again defeat Reigns when they face off in Tribal Combat at SummerSlam. The pay-per-view is now one week away (Saturday, August 5).

Last night’s main event between Jey and Waller was set up during a backstage interaction. Waller insulted Jey and invited him to appear on The Grayson Waller Effect after he loses at SummerSlam.

More coverage from last night —

WWE SmackDown video highlights —

Jey Uso vows to beat Roman Reigns again

United States Championship Invitational finals: Santos Escobar vs. Rey Mysterio

LA Knight vs. Ashante “Thee” Adonis

Bobby Lashley meets with The Street Profits

Bianca Belair & Charlotte Flair vs. Sonya Deville & Chelsea Green

Karl Anderson vs. Karrion Kross

Jey Uso vs. Grayson Waller

Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa lay out Jey Uso

SmackDown fallout: Deville & Green brush off their loss to Belair & Charlotte

WWE Money in the Bank preview & predictions: Wrestling’s summer in England begins

WWE has some added motivation to make this year’s Money in the Bank a memorable show.

The company is in the midst of negotiating for its next U.S. TV rights agreement, making the coming months more important than any WrestleMania season ever could be. 

This is like when a top athlete is in the final year of their deal and has a little extra incentive to have a good season. Nick Khan surely wants to pad WWE’s stats as he sits at the negotiating table, so if there was ever a time to hotshot a few angles or something else enticing, it’s now. 

The exclusive WWE TV rights negotiating windows for both Fox and NBCUniversal have expired, meaning we are already deep into free agency season. WWE is now free to negotiate with other interested parties including Disney, Amazon or even the New York Yankees. (Maybe one of those isn’t legit).

Another reason WWE is motivated to put on a good show in London this weekend is that they have been trying for years to turn Money in the Bank into an annual event on the level of Royal Rumble or SummerSlam.

Having to move last year’s edition out of Las Vegas’ Allegiant Stadium and into the MGM Grand certainly didn’t help matters in that regard. A fun and newsworthy 2023 show in London could be exactly what the 13-year-old event needs.

Another potential factor for Saturday’s show is that AEW will run nearby Wembley Stadium 57 days later for All In. The big stadium event will make AEW look like a major league promotion in a way it never has before and that could motivate WWE to make sure theirs is the more fondly remembered of the two shows. Maybe we see a surprise return or debut, a big angle, or something else meant to create a historical moment as a result.

Below are previews and predictions for Saturday’s event (2 PM Eastern on Peacock and/or WWE Network):

Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa vs. Jimmy & Jey Uso

Reigns and Sikoa are -140 favorites to defeat The Usos in what will be the first civil war to take place in England since the 17th century. 

In terms of betting odds, this is the closest match on the show. Ultimately, the Usos will win the blowoff to this feud but that could be several months away. I just don’t think they are going to beat the WWE Universal Champion and Sikoa so soon in the story.

You can also make the argument that Sikoa and Reigns need to get a win after losing to Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn at Night of Champions. Of course, it won’t be a clean win. Something underhanded will be done to both give the heels an advantage and also move WWE’s top storyline into its next chapter.

One thought is that a new member of The Bloodline could possibly debut on Saturday.

With only Sikoa and Paul Heyman by his side now, it seems like Reigns needs more people to acknowledge him as their Tribal Chief. The problem is that I’m not certain who is available to be slotted into that role. Jacob Fatu is believed to be under contract with MLW until 2025, Lance Anoa’i was just announced for NOAH’s N1 tournament this summer, and others in the family are still too early in their training.

When it looked as though Tama Tonga, Tanga Loa, and Hikuleo could be WWE bound, I thought they could be added to the mix. While not members of the Anoa’i dynasty, Haku’s kids are close enough to the family that they could choose to acknowledge Reigns as their Tribal Chief. But then Vince McMahon returned to WWE and rumors of the Guerrillas of Destiny coming in became less and less.

If it’s not a new member of The Bloodline, there will have to be some other storyline development leading to the finish of this match.

Prediction: Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa

WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins defends against Finn Balor

Rollins is a -2000 favorite to retain his title.

He’s tied for being the biggest favorite on the card as very few fans are giving Balor much of a chance. He and Rollins will have a great match but ultimately, we are still at the beginning of Rollins’ story as the fighting World champion.

As much as I know some wrestling fans don’t want to admit it, this version of Seth Rollins is incredibly popular. Fans love him, they love singing his song, and they love that he’s World champion. His weird laughing and sing-songy entrance have made him more of a larger-than-life character than he ever has been before.

Whether you find fans singing his song annoying or even his over-the-top Joaquin Phoenix Joker impression gets on your nerves, he’s still Seth Rollins once the bell rings. He will win what is expected to be a great match in London.

Prediction: Rollins retains

Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match

IYO Sky is a -500 favorite to win the briefcase.

Most people are banking on Sky winning and it setting up a showdown with Asuka at a later date. You just have to wonder how that plays into the tension they are building between Bayley (+500) and Sky. Something will happen during this match that furthers their story like Bayley preventing Sky from climbing the ladder or vice versa. Maybe Bayley acts happy for Sky winning at first, but then costs her a match against Asuka, etc.

Trish Stratus (+2000), Becky Lynch (+350), and Zoey Stark (+900) all have their own storyline going on that will eventually lead to Lynch vs. Stratus at SummerSlam, I’m assuming. They will tell their own story as this match goes on, but it won’t have anything to do with the finish.

Then, there is Zelina Vega (+2000). While I don’t think she’ll win, the +2000 odds are a little off. I don’t recommend actually betting on wrestling but if I was going to, I might put a little money on Vega with those numbers. Perhaps the reason few are giving her much of a chance is because she just had her big match for the title at the Puerto Rican WrestleMania that was Backlash. Still, Vega will probably wear something cool to the ring and everyone likes it when she does that. 

Prediction: IYO Sky

Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match

LA Knight is a -250 favorite to win the briefcase.

It feels as though both WWE fans and Triple H want the company to go all the way with Knight. However, the real question is how far is Vince McMahon willing to go with him?

McMahon was reportedly not high on the guy after he was cast in the role of Max Dupri last year. Knight is also over the age that McMahon generally likes to push new stars. Will the fan response to Knight be enough for McMahon to admit he was wrong about the guy? Maybe, maybe not.

If this was Triple H booking the show, the Money in the Bank match is the perfect opportunity to strap the rocket pack onto Knight. It’s possible that is what happens, but I feel Logan Paul (+150) is actually more likely to win.

Paul carrying around the Money in the Bank briefcase while he’s doing his other non-WWE stuff is perfect crossover promotion. The briefcase sitting in the background during Impaulsive and the potential of him being asked about it during media appearances are all things Nick Khan seems to enjoy very much. 

The other contenders to win the briefcase are Damian Priest (+170), Shinsuke Nakamura (+2000), Santos Escobar (+2000), Butch (+2500), and Ricochet (+3000). 

Prediction: Logan Paul

WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Ronda Rousey & Shayna Baszler defend against Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez

Rousey & Baszler are -1000 favorites to retain over Morgan and Rodriguez.

I’m a little surprised that Morgan and Rodriguez aren’t bigger underdogs. It seems as though the plan is for Rousey and Baszler to defend the WWE tag titles on all three brands moving forward. That’s an excuse to bring Rousey’s star power to any of WWE’s weekly shows while in the middle of TV rights negotiations.

WWE has had success getting the ratings up for NXT by bringing on main roster stars recently. Rousey and Baszler showing up on Tuesday nights from time to time is a good way to keep that trend going.

Prediction: Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler retain

Intercontinental Champion Gunther defends against Matt Riddle

Gunther is a -2000 favorite to retain over Riddle.

This is the match that will steal the show. These two have a long history together dating back to a 2017 WXW tour in Germany. In fact, Saturday won’t even be the first title match they have had against each other in London.

Riddle successfully defended the Progress Atlas title against then-WALTER at Progress 46 from the Electric Ballroom in London on March 26, 2017. The match followed WALTER eliminating Riddle in the semifinals of the 16 Carat Gold tournament two weeks prior. In total, they have wrestled each other 11 times across promotions such as EVOLVE, Progress, WXW, Ambition, and PWG before either signed with WWE. Their styles align nicely.

Imperium injured Riddle’s ankle recently on Raw, so I’m expecting that to factor into the finish of what should be an excellent match.

Prediction: Gunther retains

Cody Rhodes vs. Dominik Mysterio

Rhodes is a -700 favorite to defeat Mysterio.

An interesting note about the odds is that Rhodes was actually a bigger favorite to defeat Roman Reigns at WrestleMania than he is to beat Dominik here. 

In storyline, this is a significant drop in competition for Rhodes. He’s spent the last two pay-per-views facing Brock Lesnar and went up against Reigns in the main event of WrestleMania before that. No offense to Dominik, but he doesn’t quite have the pedigree of Rhodes’ other recent opponents.

This will be a good match. Rhodes is going to go out of his way to make Dominik look good, perhaps doing so in a way that hasn’t been done for Dom Dom since he started getting hot alongside Judgment Day.

WWE has given Dominik wins over Xavier Woods, Apollo Crews, and Akira Tozawa since WrestleMania. If they want to take full advantage of the massive heat the guy is generating at the moment, it makes sense to give him some wins over bigger names. I just don’t see them doing that against Rhodes, however.

Prediction: Cody Rhodes 

Wrestling Observer Live: Dismantling age-old stereotypes

It’s Saturday and that means it’s time for Wrestling Observer Live — an episode focused on the dismantling of age-old stereotypes.

On Friday, The Acclaimed’s Anthony Bowens reminded both Harley Cameron and the AEW Rampage crowd in Chicago that he’s gay and the crowd then led babyface cheer of “HE’S GAY!” 

That’s not the only example of how many of the old pro wrestling tropes don’t apply anymore.

From Friday’s WWE SmackDown: LA Knight is over, but is he too old to push? Also, Roman Reigns passed Pedro Morales and The Uso Penitentiary is back.

Speaking of Rampage, the show had good wrestling and some notable surprises including John Hennigan and Tom Lawlor. We run down all the wrestling on Friday and preview Saturday’s AEW Collision.

Click Here to Listen (sub needed)

WWE SmackDown video highlights: The Usos lay out Solo Sikoa

One week after Jey Uso’s decision, The Usos continued to hold the advantage in the Bloodline Civil War.

Last night’s SmackDown ended with The Usos laying out their brother Solo Sikoa. They delivered a barrage of superkicks to Sikoa and then hit stereo splashes from the top rope. Sikoa had no backup because Roman Reigns wasn’t at SmackDown.

Sikoa faced off with Sheamus in the main event of the show. Their match ended in a stoppage after Sikoa gave Sheamus a Samoan Spike, a uranage onto the announce table, and then a hip attack through the barricade. As Sikoa was standing tall after the match, The Usos made their way down and laid him out.

Earlier in the night, The Usos opened the show and explained why they decided to leave The Bloodline. They said Reigns messed up by disrespecting them. Reigns is blood and they’ll always be able to forgive him, but The Usos blamed Paul Heyman for being a snake and causing the issues that exist.

Reigns will be back on next Friday’s SmackDown, which is taking place the night before Money in the Bank. The Usos are facing Reigns & Sikoa in a tag team match at the pay-per-view.

More coverage from last night —

WWE SmackDown video highlights —

Video package recaps Jey Uso’s decision

The Usos explain why they left The Bloodline

Rey Mysterio vs. LA Knight

Women’s Tag Team title unification match

Liv Morgan returns

The Grayson Waller Effect with guests Pretty Deadly

The Street Profits vs. Pretty Deadly

Charlotte Flair vs. Lacey Evans

Asuka attacks Charlotte Flair after her victory against Lacey Evans

Bianca Belair is banned from ringside for next week’s Asuka vs. Charlotte title match

Sheamus vs. Solo Sikoa

The Usos lay out Solo Sikoa

SmackDown fallout: Morgan & Rodriguez want the Women’s Tag Team titles back

Bloodline Civil War official for WWE Money in the Bank

In what’s being billed as the “Bloodline Civil War,” Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa are set to face off with The Usos.

It was confirmed on this week’s episode of The SmackDown LowDown that Reigns & Sikoa vs. Jimmy & Jey Uso will take place at Money in the Bank. The pay-per-view is being held at The O2 Arena in London on Saturday, July 1.

The announcement of the match comes after Jey chose to side with Jimmy instead of Reigns & Sikoa. On last night’s SmackDown, Jey shocked Reigns by dropping him with a superkick. The Usos then worked together to lay out both Sikoa and Reigns.

Jey was forced to choose sides after the breakup of The Bloodline was kickstarted at Night of Champions. Jimmy gave Reigns a superkick that night, which cost Reigns & Sikoa a chance to win the Undisputed WWE Tag Team titles from Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn.

The tag match means Reigns doesn’t have an Undisputed WWE Universal Championship defense scheduled for Money in the Bank.

The updated card for the PPV is listed below:

  • Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match: Ricochet vs. Shinsuke Nakamura vs. LA Knight vs. Santos Escobar vs. Butch vs. Damian Priest
  • Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match: Zelina Vega vs. Becky Lynch vs. Zoey Stark vs. Bayley vs. IYO SKY vs. either Trish Stratus or Raquel Rodriguez
  • World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins defends against Finn Balor
  • Cody Rhodes vs. Dominik Mysterio
  • Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa vs. The Usos