Vince McMahon will be playing a key part in this year’s WWE Hall of Fame ceremony.
During his appearance on the Pat McAfee Show on Thursday, McMahon revealed that he’ll be the person to induct The Undertaker into the WWE Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony will air live on Peacock/WWE Network on Friday, April 1. It’s taking place at the American Airlines Center in Dallas after the WrestleMania 38 go-home episode of SmackDown.
“Undertaker, of course, is going to be in the Hall of Fame — and I’m going to have the distinction of inducting into the Hall of Fame,” McMahon told McAfee.
McMahon said that inducting The Undertaker will be one of the most difficult things he’s ever done in his life. When asked why, McMahon said he loves The Undertaker and got emotional when talking about the relationship they’ve had over the years. McMahon said Undertaker (real name Mark Calaway) is an extraordinary human being and is someone who has been loyal, trustworthy, and reliable.
With Elimination Chamber in the books, all WWE promotion is now directly set for a star-laden WrestleMania.
Matches that are known thus far for the two days on 4/2 and 4/3 at AT&T Stadium in Irving, TX are:
*Brock Lesnar vs. Roman Reigns with both the WWE and Universal titles at stake with Lesnar winning back the WWE title in the Elimination Chamber. This is scheduled as the 4/3 main event. To boost attendance after the last show did the third lowest paid-for show since 1938, they pushed on Raw a house show harder than they have in decades, promoting that Lesnar is defending on 3/5 in Madison Square Garden and could lose the title.
Either way, the Lesnar vs. Reigns match is taking place. Lesnar is advertised against Bobby Lashley, but it is not expected to happen as Lashley was being checked out this week for potential shoulder surgery. Lashley’s shoulder was injured in the Royal Rumble match where he won the title from Lesnar and hasn’t wrestled since. He was taken out of the Chamber match with an injury and never was actually in the match. WWE did advertise the Chamber match as being all about Lesnar vs. Lashley, with full knowledge Lashley wouldn’t wrestle.
It was pretty sleazy to build the main event of the show around two guys when they knew in advance that one couldn’t wrestle in the match. WWE and AAA remain the only major promotions that continue to feel that false advertising is okay.
On Raw this week, Paul Heyman used concussion protocol to say Lashley might not be there and they would have a substitute who was a fitting Madison Square Garden main event title challenger. Later in the show the announcers outright said that Lashley probably wouldn’t be in the match. Locally they were still advertising him but on television, they did pretty much say Lesnar would be defending against somebody else, and Heyman used the term a worthy MSG title contender.
On 2/24, MSG did change the advertising and now it’s just Lesnar defending the title with no opponent listed. Heyman heavily pushed the idea that Lesnar could lose the title at MSG and how it would change Mania. After last week’s two-for-one ticket sale, at press time they were at 5,599 tickets out which would be around 4,000 paid which when you consider everything with the Raw push and loaded card is pretty bad. This once again shows how much priority Vince McMahon has regarding Madison Square Garden, as he made the show the most loaded house show the promotion has put on in years, and this is the first time in many years that a main storyline will play out at a house show. It may have been 20 years or more since a house show was pushed to this level on Raw.
It’s also notable they pushed the Lesnar title defense but not the Reigns vs. Rollins title match on that same show. Most likely the next AEW show at the UBS Arena would have outdrawn Madison Square Garden had the show not been so loaded and pushed to this level. Now I’d be very surprised for that to happen. The UBS show isn’t until 5/11 and has 3,906 tickets out.
The Undertaker was in attendance at today’s Cowboys vs. Broncos NFL game at AT&T Stadium in Dallas to promote Friday’s on-sale date for WWE WrestleMania 38 tickets. The venue will host WrestleMania 38 on Saturday, April 2 and Sunday, April 3, 2022.
Undertaker posted photos of himself at the game alongside wife and former WWE star Michelle McCool, members of the Jones family who own the Dallas Cowboys, players, and former United States President George W. Bush.
Tickets for WrestleMania officially go on sale Friday, November 12 at 11 a.m. Eastern time. Travel packages for WrestleMania 38 go on sale Monday, November 8 at noon Eastern time.
“The @undertaker was on the sidelines ahead of today’s @dallascowboys game and spent some time recognizing members of the United States Military!”
The NFL brands each November as their “Salute to Service” month and have tie-ins with branches of the military, as well as selling military-themed merchandise.
The Denver Broncos defeated the Dallas Cowboys 30-16 today.
An interactive horror movie starring WWE’s The Undertaker and The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Big E & Xavier Woods) is coming to Netflix in time for Halloween season.
It was announced today that “Escape The Undertaker” will premiere on Netflix on Tuesday, October 5. Here’s the description for the film:
In this interactive film featuring WWE Superstars, The Undertaker has set a trap for the decorated tag team The New Day at his mansion. What they don’t know: The Undertaker’s mansion is an extreme Haunted House, packed to the brim with supernatural challenges. It’s up to viewers to decide the fate of these three poor souls trying to survive the wrath of The Undertaker.
As part of WWE’s partnership with Netflix, Kingston also appeared in Netflix’s movie “The Main Event” that was released in 2020.
WWE and Netflix also partnered together for the sitcom “The Big Show Show” last year.
It was revealed last October that WWE and Netflix are producing a four-episode docuseries on Vince McMahon.
WWE is getting into the booming NFTs digital art market for the first time.
It was announced on Thursday that WWE “will create the company’s first-ever non-fungible-tokens (NFTs) showcasing iconic moments from The Undertaker’s legendary WWE career, along with never-before-sold memorabilia and experiences just in time for WrestleMania.” The NFTs are in partnership with Bitski, with the first drop starting at 10:30 a.m. Eastern time this Saturday. Four tiers will be made available throughout WrestleMania weekend. One NFT will be available at the Platinum level, one will be available at the Gold level, 37 will be available at the Silver level, and there will also be a Bronze level.
An NFT is an asset verified using blockchain technology, in which a network of computers records transactions and gives buyers proof of authenticity and ownership. The current boom is mostly for digital assets, including images, GIFs, songs or videos. Most importantly, NFTs make digital artworks unique, and therefore sellable.
Now, artists, musicians, influencers and sports franchises are using NFTs to monetize digital goods that have previously been cheap or free. The technology also responds to the art world’s need for authentication and provenance in an increasingly digital world, permanently linking a digital file to its creator.
“WWE’s first-ever NFT collection presents an opportunity to own a digital piece of history featuring The Undertaker, one of the most iconic Superstars in sports entertainment,” said Nick Khan, WWE President & Chief Revenue Officer. “This will also allow WWE to deepen our connection with the WWE Universe during our biggest event, WrestleMania.”
Further details on the four tiers of Undertaker NFTs are listed in WWE’s press release:
STAMFORD, Conn., April 8, 2021 – WWE (NYSE: WWE) today announced it will create the company’s first-ever non-fungible-tokens (NFTs) showcasing iconic moments from The Undertaker’s legendary WWE career, along with never-before-sold memorabilia and experiences just in time for WrestleMania.
The four-tier drop will take place on WWE.com/NFT beginning this Saturday, April 10 at 10:30 a.m. ET through Sunday, April 11 at 11:30 p.m. ET, and will feature:
Platinum (1 of 1)
Auction will open this Saturday, April 10 at 10:30 a.m. ET and will be live for 37 hours, ending at the close of WrestleMania on Sunday, April 11 at 11:30 p.m. ET.
This exclusive, one-of-a-kind NFT not only delivers a permanent piece of The Deadman’s career but a chance to experience the event that defined his legacy. The top bidder will receive:
A one-of-a-kind NFT featuring The Undertaker;A once-in-a-lifetime experience for two at WrestleMania 38 in 2022 at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Texas, or WrestleMania 39 in 2023 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, Calif., including two front row tickets, unprecedented VIP access and hotel accommodations;
A personalized video message from The Undertaker;
An original Paul Bearer urn out of the WWE Vault, used by Paul Bearer and The Undertaker. The urn will be presented to the highest bidder in a case signed by The Undertaker; and
A personalized WWE Championship Title Belt with the winner’s name engraved on the side plates.
$10,000 opening bid.
Gold (1 of 1)
Auction will open this Saturday, April 10 at 10:30 a.m. ET and will be live for 37 hours, ending at the close of WrestleMania on Sunday, April 11 at 11:30 p.m. ET.
In more than 36 years of WWE’s greatest spectacle, WrestleMania, no accolade has loomed as large as The Undertaker’s dominant winning streak. For 21 consecutive WrestleManias, The Deadman locked eyes with the who’s who of WWE Legends. One by one, he collected their souls. The top bidder will receive:A one-of a-kind NFT featuring The Undertaker;
A once-in-a-lifetime experience for two with front row seats at a Monday Night Raw or Friday Night SmackDown of their choice in 2021 or 2022;
A personalized video message from The Undertaker; and
A signed Undertaker Legacy Championship Title Belt.
$5,000 opening bid.
Silver (1 of 37)
Editions #1-18 will drop this Saturday, April 10 at 4:30 p.m. ET, when doors open for Night 1 of WrestleMania. Editions #19-37 will drop on Sunday, April 11 at 4:30 p.m. ET, when doors open for Night 2 of WrestleMania.
To commemorate WrestleMania 37, the owners of these 37 NFTs will receive:One limited edition NFT featuring The Undertaker; and
A pair of side plates for a WWE Championship Title Belt (Title Belt not included), signed by The Undertaker.
Fixed price of $1,000.
Bronze
Two unique NFTs will be sold in two separate 15-minute open edition drops. The first drop will take place this Saturday, April 10 directly before the start of Night 1 of WrestleMania. The second drop will take place this Sunday, April 11 directly before the start of Night 2 of WrestleMania.
Live for only 15 minutes at a time, fans will have the opportunity to purchase:The first unique NFT on Saturday, April 10 from 7:45-8 p.m. ET; and
The second unique NFT on Sunday, April 11 from 7:45-8 p.m. ET.
Both will be at a fixed price of $100.
WWE NFTs are presented in conjunction with Bitski and will be available for purchase at WWE.com/NFT beginning this Saturday, April 10 at 10:30 a.m. ET through Sunday, April 11 at 11:30 p.m. ET.
“WWE’s first-ever NFT collection presents an opportunity to own a digital piece of history featuring The Undertaker, one of the most iconic Superstars in sports entertainment,” said Nick Khan, WWE President & Chief Revenue Officer. “This will also allow WWE to deepen our connection with the WWE Universe during our biggest event, WrestleMania.”
WrestleMania will take place this Saturday, April 10 and Sunday, April 11 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay, Fla., and stream live exclusively on Peacock at 8 p.m. ET in the United States and on WWE Network everywhere else.
One of the most iconic Superstars in WWE history and a pop culture phenomenon, The Undertaker made his WWE debut more than 30 years ago and was a multi-time WWE and World Heavyweight Champion. But there was one achievement that stood out above all others that will likely never be topped; The Undertaker maintained an unmatched winning streak at WrestleMania that grew over the decades to an astounding 21-0.
The Undertaker gave his ‘Final Farewell’ tonight at Survivor Series.
The ceremony, which closed the show, started with Shane McMahon, Big Show, JBL, Jeff Hardy, Mick Foley, The Godfather, The Godwins, Kevin Nash, Savio Vega, Rikishi, Booker T, Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, Triple H, and Kane all making entrances.
A video package then aired featuring Undertaker’s career highlights throughout the years under the song “Now That We’re Dead” by Metallica.
Everyone previously in the ring vanished as Vince McMahon appeared. He said some say nothing lasts forever, but they are wrong, as the Undertaker’s legacy will live on eternally. He introduced The Undertaker.
After making his entrance, Undertaker, completely in character, said his time had come to let The Undertaker rest in peace. He then posed in the ring, with a Paul Bearer hologram appearing briefly. The gong then rang repeatedly as The Undertaker slowly made his way to the back to end the show.
The Undertaker’s last match was at WrestleMania 36, when he defeated AJ Styles in the cinematic-style Boneyard match.
Date: November 22, 2020 Location: Amway Center in Orlando, FL
Show Recap —
KICK-OFF SHOW
The pre-show panel was Charly Caruso, Jerry Lawler, Booker T, JBL, and Peter Rosenberg. They ran down tonight’s card, and that was followed by an Undertaker video package. The panelists shared memories of Taker.
Kayla Braxton interviewed Paul Heyman. He doubled down on his statement that Roman Reigns was the champion while Drew McIntyre was a temporary placeholder in the history of Raw. He said Reigns will leave a legacy that no one will match.
Rosenberg disappeared during a replay and Bianca Belair appeared in his seat. She planned on showing how great she was tonight. Natalya showed up. JBL thought it was appropriate that a Hart was at Survivor Series.
Natalya and Belair argued about who the team leader should be. Natalya called herself the BOAT and Belair compared her to the Titanic. Natalya thought she was talking about the movie and took it as a compliment. They seemed to be on the same page but were just giving each other a hard time.
Rikishi was shown with Jey Uso in the back.
Sami Zayn interrupted the panel. He joked about Rosenberg not belonging at the table. He also wanted the respect he deserved from the rest of the panel. Booker put him over. Zayn repeated his claim that the IC title was more important than the US title because it represents every country. He made a crack about the States and JBL asked if he had a problem with the country. Zayn started ranting but they cut him off because they had to go to break. He left.
R-Truth showed up because he wanted to honour 30 years of the Gobbledy Gooker. They told him it was actually Undetaker’s night. Truth brought in the Gobbledy Gooker as a guest. Akira Tozawa showed up which distracted Truth long enough for Gooker to pin Truth to win the 24/7 title. They all ran off. One of the Gooker’s feet fell off and the announcers were very amused.
The Miz won a dual-brand Battle Royal (12:11)
Dominik eliminated John Morrison 30 seconds into the match. Kalisto and Rey Mysterio had an exchange but they were attacked by Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander. Alexander eliminated Kalisto. Dolph Ziggler eliminated Mysterio. Ziggler is wrestling in a Smackdown baseball cap. Angel Garza eliminated Humberto Carrillo. Hurt Business eliminated Garza.
Ricochet eliminated Alexander after a suplex on the apron. Benjamin eliminated Ricochet, Apollo Crews eliminated Benjamin. Robert Roode eliminated Murphy as Murphy was fighting Ziggler. Ziggler’s hat is gone. Dominik eliminated Roode and Ziggler. Shinsuke Nakamura eliminated Crews with some incidental help from Elias. Jeff Hardy eliminated Nakamura and Elias.
The final four was Hardy, Miz, Dominik and Chad Gable. Gable eliminated Hardy. Miz hit Dominik with It Kicks but Dominik avoided elimination. Dominik thought he eliminated Miz but the referees said Miz wasn’t eliminated because he had rolled back in the ring for a moment before being kicked under the bottom rope. The announcers seemed confused by this.
Gable tossed Dominik around with suplexes as Miz waited outside the ring. Dominik countered a suplex and followed with a 619 before eliminating Gable. Dominik thought he won but Miz slipped back in the ring and eliminated him. Miz won.
This was a nothing match. It was basically a series of eliminations until the final four and not much happened there either.
Baron Corbin confronted Kevin Owens in the back. He wondered where Owens was on Smackdown and questioned his loyalty. Owens seemed like he wanted to say something but Corbin kept ranting. Corbin wanted Owens to follow his lead and Owens said he’d think about it. Corbin believed him. Before leaving, Owens quickly turned around and said no.
Billie Kay tried giving Corbin her resume but he wasn’t interested.
AJ Styles was shown talking to team Raw.
SURVIVOR SERIES MAIN SHOW
Michael Cole, Corey Graves and Samoa Joe are the announcers. Cole said AJ Styles was accompanied by his associate “Omos.” They said his name as if it’s been known this whole time.
5-on-5 men’s elimination match: Team Raw (AJ Styles, Riddle, Keith Lee, Braun Strowman & Sheamus) defeated Team SmackDown (Jey Uso, Kevin Owens, Otis, Seth Rollins & Baron Corbin) (18:59)
– Sheamus eliminated Seth Rollins (6:04)
– AJ Styles eliminated Kevin Owens (12:17)
– Riddle eliminated Baron Corbin (13:07)
– Braun Strowman eliminated Otis (16:39)
– Keith Lee eliminated Jey Uso (18:59)
Lee has new music. Sheamus and Corbin each came out last for their teams.
Corbin and Uso got the advantage over Styles but he managed to tag in Riddle which led to an encounter between Riddle and Otis. Owens tagged in and worked over Riddle’s bare feet. He even headbutted one of Riddle’s feet. Riddle tagged in Sheamus. Rollins wanted in so Owens tagged him.
Rollins looked at his team and said, “for the greater good.” He faced Sheamus and fell to his knees. Sheamus gave him the Brogue Kick for the elimination. Team Smackdown was pissed. Owens called Rollins and a piece of trash.
Team Smackdown had a discussion on the outside until Strowman ran them over. Strowman demanded his team work together.
Owens ran wild and handed out stunners to Lee, Riddle and Sheamus but Styles caught him with the Phenomenal Forearm for the elimination.
Corbin almost eliminated Styles but he was saved by his teammates. Riddle eliminated Corbin with a Floating Bro.
Otis ran wild next and handed out suplexes, including an impressive one to Lee. Otis also gave Strowman a powerslam and caterpillar elbow drop but Riddle distracted him and Strowman nailed a running powerslam to eliminate Otis.
Uso was the only man left for his team. He handed out superkicks before taking out team Raw with a dive. Uso superkicked Styles and went for a dive but Omos pulled Styles out of the ring.
Uso superkicked Styles off the top rope. Lee blind-tagged in but Uso didn’t notice. Uso went for a splash but Lee caught him and hit the Spirit Bomb for the pinfall win.
Team Raw sweeps Team Smackdown. Team Raw celebrated together after the match.
SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Street Profits defeated Raw Tag Team Champions Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods in a non-title match (14:07)
Big E came out with Kingston and Woods but he left before the match started. They wore their Gears of War outfits to the ring. A trailer for the game played featuring their characters. The Street Profits cut a promo in the back before entering. They put over Undertaker before saying that they start their own legacy tonight. They were extremely excited.
The Street Profits were in control early until Kingston wiped out Ford with a dive and New Day took over from there. Kingston mocked them by drinking out of an empty red solo cup before kicking it away.
Ford gave Kingston a DDT before tagging in Dawkins who handed out suplexes to both opponents. The Street Profits double-teamed Woods and the attack included Ford doing a sliced bread off Dawkins’ body. New Day followed with Midnight Hour on Ford for a nearfall. Kingston gave Ford three consecutive Boom Drops but Ford followed with a dropkick.
Dawkins gave Kingston a spinebuster and Ford followed with a frog splash but took too long to make a cover and Kingston kicked out. Kingston gave Ford an SOS but Dawkins broke up the cover. Woods took out Dawkins with a missile dropkick. Ford ducked Trouble in Paradise and hit one of his own. Woods gave Ford a gutbuster for a nearfall.
The Street Profits finished off Kingston with an electric chair/diving blockbuster combo for the pinfall win. New Day embraced Dawkins and Ford after the match.
Very good match and the right team won.
United States Champion Bobby Lashley (w/Hurt Business) defeated Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn in a non-title match (7:47)
Lashley took about 90% of the match and won with the Hurt Lock. Zayn tried to tempt the Hurt Business to attack him so Lashley would get disqualified but they didn’t bite. He tried a few other tricks, including “tripping” over MVP’s foot but the ref wasn’t buying that. He got one nearfall on a schoolboy before tapping to the Hurt Lock.
Jimmy Uso was with Jey outside of Reigns’ locker room. Reigns wasn’t happy that Jey lost. Jimmy defended him by saying it was five against one. Reigns didn’t care and told him to leave. He did. Reigns basically said Jey let him down and he didn’t have time for losers.
SmackDown Women’s Champion Sasha Banks defeated Raw Women’s Champion Asuka in a non-title match (13:03)
Banks was in control early and hit a backstabber a few minutes in for two. Asuka came back with a kick, running hip attack and shining wizard. Asuka used Yes Kicks but Banks ducked a kick and applied an abdominal stretch. They traded moves until Asuka knocked Banks off the apron with a hip attack.
Banks tried a Meteora off the barricade but Asuka caught her with a Codebreaker. Banks avoided another hip attack and followed with a kick to the head and backstabber for a nearfall.
Banks hit a double knee strike in the corner and applied the crossface. Asuka tried reversing into the Asuka Lock but Banks slipped out. Asuka followed with another Codebreaker for a nearfall. They traded rollups for a series of two counts.
Asuka kicked Banks in the head, but as Asuka was perhaps going for another shining wizard, Banks caught her in a rollup for the pinfall win. Banks beats Asuka. Pretty good match.
Banks celebrated and Asuka appeared stunned.
In the bank, the Gobbledy Gooker was distracted by birdseed so Tozawa put it in a schoolboy to win the 24/7 title. Truth then pinned Tozawa to win the belt back.
5-on-5 women’s elimination match: Team Raw (Tag Team Champions Nia Jax & Shayna Baszler, Lana, Lacey Evans & Peyton Royce) defeated Team SmackDown (Bayley, Bianca Belair, Natalya, Ruby Riott & Liv Morgan) (23:24)
– Peyton Royce eliminated Bayley (9:58)
– Natalya eliminated Peyton Royce (11:45)
– Lacey Evans eliminated Natalya (12:38)
– Shayna Baszler eliminated Ruby Riott (16:57)
– Liv Morgan eliminated Lacey Evans (18:04)
– Nia Jax eliminated Liv Morgan (19:07)
– Bianca Belair eliminated Shanya Baszler via DQ (22:32)
– Lana won after Bianca Belair and Nia Jax were eliminated via double countout (23:24)
Instead of wearing blue and red t-shirts, everyone on team Smackdown wore a combination of blue/black gear and everyone on team Raw wore a combination of red/black.
Belair and Natayla gave Royce a double vertical suplex where they squatted her a few times. Baszler tagged in and the announcers reminded us that she won the main event last year over Becky Lynch and Bayley. Jax tagged in and knocked over several members of Smackdown before Lana tagged herself in.
Natalya tagged in and Lana managed to get the advantage. Lana wanted to tag out but nobody wanted to tag her. Jax finally tagged herself in. They yelled at Lana to stand on the stairs and she pouted like a child, almost in tears.
Belair pressed Royce and dropped her over the turnbuckle which they called a snake eyes and a tribute to Undertaker. This led to everyone getting involved and trading spots.
Bayley wanted to do a dive onto a pile of bodies but Royce caught her with a roundhouse kick and suplexed her onto the pile. This looked rough. (Lana was the only one not involved.)
Royce gave Bayley a spinning brainbuster for the pinfall elimination. Royce was doing well against Natalya but Natalya got an assist from a teammate. Natalya tried a surfboard I think but they messed it up so she used a Sharpshooter instead and Royce tapped for the elimination.
Natalya had Baszler in a Sharpshooter but Evans gave her a Woman’s Right for the pinfall elimination. Evans gave Belair a Spanish Fly off the top but the Riott Squad broke up the cover.
The Riott Squad double-teamed Jax and might have had her beat after a Codebreaker and Riott Kick but Baszler tagged herself in. Baszler put Riott in the Kirifuda Clutch but Riott rolled into a pin attempt. Riott had her beat but the ref was distracted by Jax. Riott passed out because Baszler still had the hold locked in. Baszler let go and covered Riott for the pinfall elimination.
Morgan eliminated Evans next with a crucifix bomb. Morgan went after Jax but Jax eliminated her after a Samoan drop.
Belair was the final member of team Smackdown against Jax, Baszler and Lana. Belair ran wild on Jax but Jax gave her a powerslam and leg drop for a nearfall. Belair dropkicked Jax out of the ring but Baszler had tagged herself in. Belair tried a handspring elbow but Baszler leaped up and caught her in the Kirifuda Clutch, which looked cool.
Belair fought to her feet and got a rope break as she passed out. Baszler wouldn’t let go of the hold so the ref disqualified her for the elimination.
Jax grabbed Belair and wanted to put her through the announce table but Belair pushed her into the steel steps. Belair tossed her over the barricade but couldn’t get back in the ring by the ten count. Both Belair and Jax were eliminated by countout. Lana was the sole survivor.
Lana celebrated like she actually won something here. Jax was pissed.
They could have really made Belair here but they did this instead.
The announcers plugged TLC and said it would happen at Tropicana Field.
Universal Champion Roman Reigns (w/Paul Heyman) defeated WWE Champion Drew McIntyre (24:52)
They faced off before the match and the production team turned up the crowd noise to make it feel like a big moment.
They exchanged holds early until McIntyre knocked down Reigns with a big shoulder block which sent him out of the ring to regroup. McIntyre used chops but Reigns came back with fists. McIntyre fought back momentarily but Reigns posted him.
Reigns tossed McIntyre into the steel steps as loud booing played over the speakers. Reigns tried a cover but McIntyre aggressively kicked out at two. Reigns followed with knees and a vertical suplex for two. Reigns cut off another comeback attempt with a leaping clothesline.
McIntyre came back with clotheslines, an overhead suplex, a neckbreaker but Reigns blocked a Future Shock DDT and hit a Samoan drop for two. McIntyre blocked a superman punch and hit a spinebuster for two. McIntyre tossed Reigns into the post and steel steps but Reigns knocked him down as they re-entered the ring.
Reigns taunted McIntyre. McIntyre headbutted him and they exchanged big boots. McIntyre ducked a superman punch and hit a Future Shock DDT for a nearfall. McIntyre went for a Claymore kick but Reigns hit a superman punch. Reigns tried a guillotine but McIntyre suplexed him. Reigns booted McIntyre before tossing him shoulder-first into the post.
McIntyre countered a spear into a Kimura but Reigns got a rope break. McIntyre went after Reigns on the outside but Reigns gave him a Samoan drop onto the announce table (which didn’t break). Reigns gave him a second Samoan drop through the table.
Reigns broke the ref’s count before spearing McIntyre through the barricade. Reigns pushed McIntyre into the ring for a cover but he kicked out. Reigns tried a spear but McIntyre kicked him. Reigns bounced back and hit a spear anyway for a close nearfall.
Reigns went for another spear but ran into a Claymore kick. Reigns fell back into the ref who fell out of the ring.
Jey ran down but McIntyre immediately knocked him off the apron. Reigns gave McIntyre a low-blow and Jey hit a superkick.
Reigns followed with a superman punch and applied a guillotine. A new ref ran in. McIntyre got to his feet for a moment but he passed out and the ref called for the bell. Reigns wins.
It started slow but the last few minutes were quite good, ref bump aside.
Jey applauded Reigns from the stage. Reigns approached him and nodded before embracing him. They seemed to be on the same page. McIntyre was displeased.
Undertaker’s Final Farewell
They introduced Shane McMahon, Big Show, JBL, Jeff Hardy, Mick Foley, Godfather, the Godwinns, Savio Vega, Rikishi, Kevin Nash (who entered to the nWo theme), Booker T, Shawn Michaels, Ric Flair, Triple H, and Kane (wearing full Kane attire). They all shook hands and hugged as they entered the ring, except for Kane who stayed in his gimmick.
As each person entered, the announcers ran down the history Undertaker had with each of them. They aired an Undertaker video package after everyone entered.
Vince McMahon was in the ring after the video and everyone else was gone. McMahon talked about Undertaker’s run going back to “WWF” and now WWE. Vince said Undertaker’s legacy would live on eternally. He introduced Taker.
Taker had a full entrance and came out in his dead man attire. Instead of climbing the ring steps, a platform raised him to ring level. Once he hit the ring, he seemed to be soaking it all in as his music continued to play. (I timed it for fun: Taker’s entrance took about 7 and a half minutes.)
“Undertaker” chants and loud cheering played over the speakers as he continued to pace around the ring.
He spoke in his Undertaker voice and cut an Undertaker promo (which is a bit odd considering we recently saw a long documentary with him as a normal person). He said he laid many souls to rest but his time has come. “Thank you Taker” chants played and he paused.
He said it was time for Undertaker to rest in peace.
Taker went to a knee and did his pose as a projection of Paul Bearer appeared in front of him.
Loud “Undertaker” chants continued to play. Taker remained in his pose as a single spotlight shone over him.
He got to his feet and did the throat slash as his music played.
He left the ring and went to the ramp. He took one last look at the ring before raising his fist in the air. He left.
(I suppose they could have done one of two things here. Have the real man come out and interact with his old friends like a real person, or do what they did. I’m not sure this was the right choice. That being said, if live crowds return in big numbers someday, they can always do the other thing later.)
One of our two biggest issues of the year, the 2020 Hall of Fame issue is out this week. It’s got complete results of the balloting among historians, active and retired performers, reporters and historians by category as well as final voting totals, plus who will and won’t be back on next year’s ballot.
The issue runs down the new members with extensive biographies on all of them. It explains the voting process and criteria, as well as runs down who came close. We also look at voting combinations that were popular, and notes on some of the key candidates. We list all of the first ballot Hall of Famers in history as well as the four highest vote getters in history. We look at people new to the ballot next year, who picked up Hall of Fame numbers in different categories along with bios of four of the five inductees.
Also in this issue:
AEW Full Gear show, including future AEW direction, match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results on the show.
Changes in the fundamental manner WWE has run its business since the beginning of time and why health conditions and economics have completely changed the industry.
New Japan’s upcoming tournaments, the Tokyo Dome show plans, the story behind it, business notes, plus a complete rundown of Power Struggle with match-by-match coverage with star ratings and poll results.
Survivor Series and this week’s WWE television that leads to it.
Where WWE may be taping from after it leaves Orlando and the pros and cons of the place, Tribute to the Troops and why the rating number may surprise people, WrestleMania note, Paige talks Alberto Del Rio’s case, Stalker tries to invader Paige’s home, Bellas talk a return to the ring, WWE new trademarks, Dwayne Johnson after a movie franchise adn plan for new show, John Cena’s next big role, UK TV ratings, how Smackdown and AEW rank among sports shows, plus the market value of WWE and the most-watched shows from the past week from the WWE Network.
Saturday’s UFC show with match coverage and business notes.
Ratings breakdowns in every segment for Wednesdays and every category for other shows, looking at stats not available elsewhere to get the deepest read into how shows are doing, what categories are doing well and how shows compare with previous weeks and one year ago.
Results of all the major pro wrestling events around the world over the past week.
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WEDNESDAY NEWS UPDATE
WWE
HeelByNature obtained court documents showing WWE is seeking to move the Samantha Tavel/Matt Riddle lawsuit to federal court.
The Undertaker was the guest on this week’s The Bump. Sasha Banks, Leon Ruff, Johnny Gargano, and Candice LeRae also appeared. Street Profits, Bruce Prichard, and Lana will be the guests on a special Sunday edition of The Bump prior to Survivor Series.
Murphy will be the guest on this week’s After the Bell with Corey Graves.
People Magazine has a profile on The Undertaker, including exclusive photos of himself and his family.
Undertaker spoke to Ariel Helwani about officially retiring. He considers himself done, but there’s one caveat: “In my mind, I am 100% done. But there’s this guy that lives up in Stamford, Connecticut, who lives by the motto, ‘never say never.'”
Undertaker also spoke to USA Today about his career and his farewell taking place at Survivor Series on Sunday.
Shawn Michaels spoke to both CBS Sports and Metro about The Undertaker’s upcoming farewell.
Pro Wrestling Illustrated announced today that FTR ranked #1 in their inaugural Tag Team 50 rankings. Kenny Omega & Adam Page, Sasha Banks & Bayley, The North, and The Street Profits round out the top 5.
Bill Pritchard of WrestleZone spoke to The Young Bucks on their new book, ‘Killing the Business’, which is out now.
Chris Van Vilet spoke to JTG about his friendship with Shad Gaspard, saying that Gaspard should win the Warrior Award in next year’s WWE Hall of Fame.
Lisa Marie Varon spoke to Wrestling Inc. on her GAW podcast and the possibility of a run in AEW.
Darby Allin spoke to TVInsider on becoming TNT Champion, his feud with Cody Rhodes, and working with the likes of Tony Hawk.
Thirty years after debuting at the same event, The Undertaker’s “Final Farewell” will take place at Survivor Series.
WWE sent out a press release today announcing that The Undertaker’s Final Farewell is set for Survivor Series. It will “recognize The Phenom’s legendary 30-year career.”
The Undertaker made his televised WWF debut at Survivor Series 1990. This year’s Survivor Series pay-per-view is taking place on Sunday, November 22, which is 30 years to the day after Survivor Series 1990.
In his Last Ride docuseries earlier this year, The Undertaker said he has no desire to return to the ring. If he doesn’t wrestle again, his final match will have been his cinematic Boneyard Match against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36.
WWE’s full press release is available below:
Undertaker’s Final Farewell will recognize The Phenom’s legendary 30-year career at Survivor Series on Sunday, Nov. 22, streaming at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on the award-winning WWE Network.
One of the most iconic Superstars in WWE history and a sports-entertainment phenomenon, Undertaker made his WWE debut at Survivor Series on Nov. 22, 1990. From his debut with Brother Love to his critically-acclaimed match against AJ Styles at this year’s WrestleMania, Undertaker has been involved in some of the most memorable moments in WWE history. The Deadman rose to the top of sports-entertainment with multiple WWE Championship reigns and recorded an astounding undefeated streak at WrestleMania by winning his first 21 matches at the annual extravaganza.
As part of Undertaker’s Final Farewell and 30th anniversary, WWE is celebrating ’30 Years of The Deadman’ throughout November, including recently debuted documentaries ‘Meeting The Undertaker’ and ‘WWE Untold: The Phenom and The Legend Killer’ on WWE Network as well as ‘The Mortician: The Story of Paul Bearer,’ which premieres this Sunday, and ‘Brothers of Destruction,’ which premiered in October at the Austin Film Festival and will stream on WWE Network on Sunday, November 15. In addition, Undertaker will be a special guest on ‘Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Sessions’ immediately following Survivor Series.
The celebration will also include special Undertaker photo galleries, video highlights and features on WWE.com, Undertaker TikTok Challenge, Instagram filter and Snapchat lens, two exclusive product opportunities with Funko only available at Amazon, feature space in 2,300 Walmart’s including an exclusive Mattel action figure, national media appearances including ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon’ and blocks of primetime programming from WWE’s distribution partners around the world dedicated to Undertaker.
In addition to Undertaker’s Final Farewell, Survivor Series is the one night of the year where Raw squares off against SmackDown. WWE’s Fall Classic is highlighted by: WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns taking on WWE Champion Randy Orton; Raw Women’s Champion Asuka vs. SmackDown Women’s Champion Sasha Banks; Raw Tag Team Champions The New Day against SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Street Profits; United States Champion Bobby Lashley vs. Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn; as well as men’s and women’s 5-on-5 Survivor Series Elimination Matches.
WWE also released a video promoting The Undertaker’s Final Farewell:
On the anniversary of his debut, WWE will be celebrating 30 years of The Undertaker.
A commercial for next month’s Survivor Series pay-per-view aired during Hell in a Cell tonight and was focused on it being The Undertaker’s 30th anniversary. It was then announced on commentary that Survivor Series will celebrate 30 years of The Undertaker.
Further details about the celebration haven’t been revealed.
This year’s Survivor Series is taking place on Sunday, November 22. That’s also the day that The Undertaker made his on-screen debut for the WWF at Survivor Series in 1990.
In what may have been the last match of The Undertaker’s career, he defeated AJ Styles in their Boneyard Match at WrestleMania 36 this April. At the end of his Last Ride docuseries on the WWE Network, Undertaker said he has no desire to return to in-ring competition.
The WWE Network is also celebrating The Undertaker’s 30th anniversary with their “30 Days of The Deadman” lineup of programming. Starting today, a new special premieres on the WWE Network every Sunday for five weeks. Today’s special is a new WWE Untold episode on Undertaker and Randy Orton’s feud from 2005.
WWE is celebrating the 30th anniversary of The Undertaker with a lineup of special WWE Network programming.
It was announced via Variety today that “30 Days of The Deadman” will begin on the WWE Network on Sunday, October 25. There will be new Undertaker-related programming every Sunday for five weeks.
30 Days of The Deadman will begin with a new WWE Untold episode premiering on October 25. It will be focused on The Undertaker and Randy Orton’s feud from 2005. The episode will include interviews with Undertaker, Randy Orton, Cowboy Bob Orton, Bruce Prichard, and more.
“Meeting Mark Calaway” will then premiere on Sunday, November 1. The documentary will feature wrestlers from the past and present detailing what it was like when they first met the man behind The Undertaker. “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Drew McIntyre, and Orton are among those who will appear on the documentary.
A documentary on Paul Bearer will premiere on Sunday, November 8. It’s titled “The Mortician: The Story of Paul Bearer.”
“Brothers of Destruction” is debuting on the WWE Network on Sunday, November 15. The documentary, which features The Undertaker and Kane sitting down for a candid discussion about their careers, will also premiere at the Austin Film Festival on October 29.
30 Days of The Deadman will then wrap up with The Undertaker appearing on Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Sessions on Sunday, November 22. This will be the second time Undertaker has been a guest on the show. He also appeared on its debut episode in November 2019.
This November marks 30 years since The Undertaker debuted at Survivor Series 1990. At the end of his “Last Ride” docuseries on the WWE Network earlier this year, Undertaker said he has no desire to return to in-ring competition. If Undertaker doesn’t return to the ring, his last match will have been his Boneyard Match against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36.
Full details for the 30 Days of The Deadman programming are listed below:
WWE Untold: The Phenom and The Legend Killer
Sunday, Oct. 25
Learn the incredible true story of The Undertaker and Randy Orton’s epic rivalry from 2005, as told by The Phenom and The Legend Killer themselves. The Undertaker and Orton discuss their classic series of matches and recall the lessons they took away from their nearly yearlong rivalry, from nearly getting set on fire and how to start and crash a lowrider, to learning the rights and wrongs of the sports-entertainment business. Interviews with Undertaker, Randy Orton, Cowboy Bob Orton Jr., Bruce Prichard and more.
Meeting Mark Calaway
Sunday, Nov. 1
Awe. Intimidation. Fear. No figure looms as large in WWE lore or commands more respect than The Undertaker — a fact all other Superstars acknowledge. But what is it like to meet the man behind The Deadman? Superstars from past and present — including “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton — remember their first introduction to Mark Calaway, better known to the WWE Universe as the one and only Undertaker.
The Mortician: The Story of Paul Bearer
Sunday, Nov. 8
With his ghoulish appearance and signature cry of ‘Ooooh, yesssss,’ Hall of Famer Paul Bearer, The Undertaker’s longtime manager, stands out as one of the most unique characters in sports-entertainment history, but the man who portrayed Paul Bearer is every bit as fascinating. This is the story of William Moody, the real-life mortician who combined his background in mortuary science with his passion for wrestling to create one of WWE’s most enduring personalities.
Brothers of Destruction
Sunday, Nov. 15
Two eternal legends. One epic story. For the first time ever, The Undertaker and Kane sit down for a candid discussion about their storied careers, which have been intertwined since The Big Red Machine was introduced as The Undertaker’s long-lost brother in 1997. From their fierce battles against one another, to their indestructible alliance as tag team partners, Brothers of Destruction covers The Undertaker and Kane’s bond as never before. (premiering at Austin Film Festival 10/29)
‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin’s Broken Skull Sessions: The Undertaker
Sunday, Nov. 22
After his groundbreaking appearance on the very first episode of The Broken Skull Sessions, The Undertaker returns for a second round of no-holds-barred conversation with “Stone Cold” Steve Austin. The Deadman and The Texas Rattlesnake cover even more ground on this all-new episode, which premieres 30 years to the day of The Undertaker’s arrival in WWE.
Though the series finale aired last month, more “Undertaker: The Last Ride” content is coming to the WWE Network this weekend.
WWE has announced that a bonus episode titled “Undertaker: The Last Ride: Tales from the Deadman” will premiere on the WWE Network on Sunday:
You thought you’d seen the last Last Ride? Think again.
The critically-acclaimed WWE Network series returns this Sunday as Undertaker shares even more stories from his legendary career on Undertaker: The Last Ride: Tales from the Deadman, narrated by Emmy-nominated actor and producer Timothy Olyphant.
Get ready for some incredible behind-the-scenes anecdotes from the man himself, as Undertaker recalls stories about the origins of his character, his experience on an infamous plane ride, and even that time he fought The Godfather over a hat, all accompanied by never-before-seen animation.
Don’t miss the return of Undertaker: The Last Ride, as ‘Tales from The Deadman’ premieres this Sunday, streaming immediately following The Horror Show at WWE Extreme Rules, only on WWE Network.
In addition to airing on the live stream after Extreme Rules, “Tales from the Deadman” will be made available on demand on the WWE Network at 10 a.m. Eastern time on Sunday.
“Undertaker: The Last Ride” was a five-episode docuseries and ended with The Undertaker saying he has no desire to return to the ring following his Boneyard Match against AJ Styles from WrestleMania 36. “If Vince was in a pinch, would I come back? I guess time will only tell there,” Undertaker said. “In case of emergency, break glass, you pull out The Undertaker. I would have to consider that. Never say never. But at this point in my life, and in my career, I have no desire to get back in the ring,”
Following his apparent retirement from in-ring competition, last night’s episode of SmackDown featured a tribute to The Undertaker.
The lineup for the episode was also changed after it was confirmed earlier this week that multiple people in WWE have tested positive for COVID-19. Jeff Hardy vs. Baron Corbin was the new main event, with it being set up by Corbin insulting The Undertaker and being attacked by Hardy.
After losing in the main event, Corbin attacked Hardy. The New Day, Braun Strowman, and Matt Riddle then laid Corbin out. Hardy paid tribute to The Undertaker by doing an Undertaker pose in the ring to close the show.
New Day & The Lucha House Party also took on The Miz, John Morrison, Shinsuke Nakamura & Cesaro in an eight-man tag match last night.
Nikki Cross won a fatal four-way number one contender’s match and will challenge for Bayley’s SmackDown Women’s Championship at Extreme Rules. WWE has also announced that Universal Champion Strowman will face off with Bray Wyatt in a non-title Wyatt Swamp Fight at the pay-per-view.
This week’s episode of SmackDown will feature a special tribute to The Undertaker.
The tribute is airing after the WWE Network’s Undertaker: The Last Ride docuseries ended with Undertaker saying he has “no desire” to return to the ring at this point in his career. As part of the tribute, WWE is re-airing Undertaker and AJ Styles’ Boneyard Match from WrestleMania 36 on SmackDown tonight.
If Undertaker does stay retired from in-ring competition, the Boneyard Match will have been his final match.
Though it was confirmed earlier this week that multiple people in WWE have tested positive for COVID-19, the rest of tonight’s SmackDown was taped at the WWE Performance Center earlier today.
WWE hasn’t revealed the rest of the lineup for tonight’s show. Styles defending his Intercontinental title against Drew Gulak, Sheamus presenting “a toast to Jeff Hardy,” and Braun Strowman responding to Bray Wyatt had originally been announced for the episode but aren’t currently being advertised on WWE.com’s preview.
Our coverage begins at 8 p.m. Eastern time.
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They aired an excellent video covering The Undertake’s career. It featured his 1990 debut at the Survivor Series and included highlights of his career. The footage also featured Paul Bearer, Kane, and all the major stars Taker battled in his career.
In the Performance Center, members of SmackDown roster and the fans chanted “Thank You, Taker.”
Michael Cole and Corey Graves announced tonight several superstars discuss the legacy of the Undertaker.
They aired highlights of Undertaker’s debut at the Survivor Series on November 22, 1990.
WrestleMania 36 Boneyard Match: The Undertaker defeated AJ Styles
A hearse pulled into the dark and ominous boneyard as The Undertaker’s music played. Druids pulled a casket out of the vehicle. Suddenly, AJ Styles jumped out of the casket. He laughed as his music played.
Styles proclaimed that he’s not scared and isn’t afraid of the boneyard. He wondered where Taker is until he could hear a motorcycle in the distance.
Taker made a grand entrance on his bike. He rode into the boneyard, but Styles wasn’t concerned. He mocked Taker and wondered if Michelle let him out.
Styles pointed out that he dug Taker a hole, but Taker said he dug his own grave.
Styles tried to jump Taker, but he fought back. Taker tossed Styles into the hearse. Taker hit Styles with shots but missed, and his forearm went through the window.
Styles tried to get away, but Taker slammed him on the windshield of the car.
Back from the break, Taker was firmly in control. Styles briefly took over, but Taker knocked Styles into the grave. Suddenly, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson showed up.
Taker approached, but druids came out of the house. The druids surrounded Taker, but he easily beat up each one. Anderson and Gallows took over on Taker and beat him down.
Taker recovered and regained control. He was beating down Anderson and Gallows when Styles smashed a headstone over Taker’s back. Taker and Styles collied and crashed through the wall of the house.
Back from the break, Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed everyone back. Before they go back to the match, a few legends discuss Undertaker’s legacy. Kane and Ric Flair discussed Taker’s career and his character. They noted he could fly over the top rope despite his large size. Flair believes Taker is the greatest character and biggest star in the business.
Back to the match, Styles got back to his feet and mocked Taker. Taker flipped off Styles and challenged him.
Styles kicked Taker and continued to trash talk. Styles picked up the shovel and broke it over Taker’s back.
Undertaker fell forward into the open grave. Styles got into the truck and was about to dump the dirt in the grave.
Suddenly, a flash of light appears behind Styles as does The Undertaker. Styles freaks out and runs off. He climbs up a ladder onto the roof of the house.
Taker stalked Styles up the ladder. He lifted his arms, and flames appeared.
Anderson and Gallows attacked Taker. Taker fights back and eliminates them from the match.
Styles couldn’t understand how Taker got out of the grave. Taker grabbed Styles by the throat, and choke slammed him off the roof. Taker began slowly climbing down the ladder.
Back from the break, Styles withered in pain on the ground. Undertaker picked up Styles and carried him to the grave. Styles begged off and apologized to Taker.
Styles begged Taker not to bury him. Taker trashed talked Styles and asked if he’s still an old man.
Taker promised not to bury Styles. He noted Styles fought his hardest, and Taker hugged him. Taker turned away to walk off but then turned around and kicked Styles into the grave.
Taker got in the truck and dumped the dirt into the grave to win the match. Taker walked over to the grave and revealed Styles’ headstone. Taker walked away, and Styles’ hand reached out of the grave.
Taker got on his motorcycle and rode off with his symbol displayed in the background.
The Boneyard match was the highlight of WrestleMania 36 and one of the best of the cinematic matches. The Boneyard Match still stick outs even months after cinematic matches.
King Corbin was in the ring as the fans cheered for Taker. Corbin mocked Taker and noted he only had a 30-year career because he sucked up to The McMahons. Corbin claimed Taker’s a member of a particular club.
Corbin claimed that Taker held down his career, and he has to listen to all these legends talk about Taker. Corbin complained about all the superstars coming on the stage and chanting, “Thank You, Taker.” The fans chanted, “Thank you, Taker.” Corbin called Taker by his name Mark Callaway. He looked in the camera and told Taker that he sucks.
Suddenly, Jeff Hardy jumped in the ring and attacked Corbin. Corbin ran off as Hardy stood tall in the ring.
Kurt Angle and Stone Cold Steve Austin discussed The Undertaker’s long career and great matches. Angle talked about Taker’s streak of having great matches at WrestleMania.
In the back, Sara Schreiber approached Hardy. Hardy was furious that Corbin insulted Taker and his legacy. Hardy said Taker was like a mentor to him and promised to take care of Corbin because Taker can’t.
Michael Cole confirmed Hardy versus Corbin as the main event for later.
Fatal Four-Way: Nikki Cross defeated Lacey Evans, Dana Brooke, and Alexa Bliss
The winner of this match challenges SmackDown Women’s Champion Bayley at Extreme Rules.
WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions Bayley and Sasha Banks joined commentary. Bayley and Banks were great on commentary again.
Cross and Bliss worked together to clear the ring. Cross then rolled up Bliss for a near fall. Bayley noted she’d never do anything like that to Banks.
Evans and Brooke jumped back in the ring and worked together against Bliss and Cross. Evans turned on Brooke and knocked her out of the ring. Brooke recovered and hit a Swanton bomb on Evans, but Cross broke up the pin attempt.
Bliss attempted Twisted Bliss, but Brooke got her knees up. Cross then hit a dropkick on Brooke. Cross charged at Evans, but she avoided and hit a slingshot elbow for a near fall.
Brooke attempted a handspring elbow, but Evans rocked Brooke with the women’s right. Cross then rolled up Evans for the surprise win. Bayley was surprised as Bliss and Cross celebrated in the ring. Cross challenges Bayley for the title at Extreme Rules.
They had a decent fatal four-way as all four worked hard.
In the back, New Day, Lucha House Party, Morrison & Miz, and Cesaro & Nakamura all argued.
Triple H and Shawn Michaels discussed Undertaker’s career longevity and loyalty.
SmackDown Tag Team Champions The New Day & Lucha House Party defeated The Miz, John Morrison, Shinsuke Nakamura & Cesaro
Big E and Miz started the match, but Big E wanted either Nakamura or Cesaro because of the attack from last week. Big E had the early advantage and hit a big splash on the apron to Miz.
Big E launched Lince Dorado onto Miz for a near fall. Cesaro and Dorado had a great exchange. Cesaro lifted Dorado, but he landed on his feet. Dorado rolled up Cesaro for a near fall.
Gran Metalik hit a splash off of Dorado’s shoulder onto Cesaro for a near fall. Nakamura and Metalik went back and forth.
The faces were in control until Nakamura pulled Kingston to the floor and tossed him into the barricade. Cesaro rocked Kingston with an uppercut, and Nakamura followed up with a kick to the side of the head.
Back from the break, the heels were firmly in control. They isolated Kingston and cut him off from his corner. Miz and Morrison knocked Lucha House Party off the apron. Kingston attempted to make a tag, but Nakamura cut him off.
Cesaro distracted Big E, and Nakamura rocked him with a dropkick. Metalik got the hot tag and hit a cross body for a near fall. He followed up with a springboard hurricanrana off the second rope for another near fall.
Metalik charged at Morrison and hit Canadian Destroyer for a near fall. Dorado hit a shooting star press for a close near fall on Morrison as well.
The New Day and Cesaro and Nakamura continued to brawl and fought to the back. Metalik made the blind tag, and Dorado hit the springboard stunner on Miz. Dorado jumped off the top turnbuckle and hit a hurricanrana off the apron on Morrison. That looked like a scary spot.
Metalik then hit a big elbow off the top rope on Miz for the win.
This was a good match that picked up towards the end. Dorado and Metalik looked great in the match.
Universal Champion Braun Strowman made his way to the ring as flashes of the Eater Of Worlds Bray Wyatt appeared on the screen.
They recapped the return of Bray Wyatt and The Firefly Funhouse last week. Wyatt appeared as the Eater of Worlds and the leader of The Wyatt Family Bray Wyatt.
Braun Strowman Promo
Universal Champion Braun Strowman made his way to the ring. He talked about the first time he met Bray Wyatt. He noted he felt fear the first time he met Wyatt.
One day, they were sitting on the edge of Wyatt’s cabin near the swamp when a water moccasin snake slithered out of the water. Strowman wanted to stomp on the snake, but Wyatt wouldn’t let him because the snake was his friend.
Wyatt approached the snake and it bit him over and over. Wyatt just kept laughing, and Strowman realized that Wyatt is the devil and the serpent.
Strowman was so impressed that he began to do the devil’s work. Strowman noted he did evil things, and Strowman liked it. Strowman tried to put that side of him away, but it keeps calling him.
Strowman challenged Wyatt to return to the swamp. He promised the destroy Wyatt and drag him into the swamp. Strowman wants to know if Wyatt wants to return home one last time.
Strowman peered into the camera. Wyatt’s laughter could be heard in the Performance Center. Strowman then began to laugh as well.
In the back, Sara Schreiber interviewed King Corbin. Corbin mocked Undertaker and Jeff Hardy. He promised to make Hardy Rest In Peace.
Batista and Mick Foley discussed The Undertaker’s career. Batista noted he’s proudest of the people he worked with like Taker. Foley said people approach him and ask if he ever faced Taker. He also believes his career wouldn’t be the same without Taker.
They recapped the angle from earlier tonight of King Corbin insulting Undertaker and Hardy jumping him. The angle, Corbin’s backstage interview, and the match seemed to set up an appearance by the Undertaker but that’s clearly not happening.
Jeff Hardy defeated King Corbin
Corbin knocked Hardy down with a shoulder tackle at the ring of the bell. Hardy tried fighting back, but Corbin caught him with a back elbow.
On commentary, Michael Cole pushed the idea that Hardy is defending Undertaker’s legacy.
Corbin continued to beat down Hardy. Hardy recovered and clotheslined Corbin to the floor. Hardy attempted a sliding dropkick, but Corbin avoided. Hardy fought back and threw Corbin into the announce table.
Hardy missed whisper in the wind, and Corbin regained control. Corbin tossed Hardy into the ring post. Corbin mocked The Undertaker and did Taker’s pose.
Back from the break, the babyface members of the roster came to ringside to support Hardy as he defends Undertaker’s legacy.
Corbin was firmly in control and mocked The New Day. Corbin hit the around the ring post forearm and slowed the pace down.
Hardy fought back and hit two jawbreakers in a row.
Hardy fired up and scored a close near fall. He attempted the twist of fate, but Corbin countered. Corbin then hit the deep six for a close near fall.
Hardy rolled to the floor. Corbin charged, but Hardy moved out of the way, and Corbin crashed into the ring steps. Hardy then hit the Swanton Bomb for the win.
After the match, Corbin attacked Hardy from behind. Kingston tried to make the save, but Corbin knocked him down. Big E jumped in the ring and hit the Big Ending on Corbin.
Universal Champion Braun Strowman jumped in the ring and hit the power slam on Corbin. The faces in the ring asked Matt Riddle to join in. Riddle then hit the Floating Bro on Corbin who then rolled out of the ring.
Hardy, Strowman, Riddle, and New Day celebrated in the ring as the rest of the faces celebrated at ringside. A picture of the Undertaker appeared on the screen, and Hardy did Taker’s pose.
The match had a very slow pace and dragged at times. However, it was more about the post-match celebration and paying tribute to the Undertaker.
On commentary, Michael Cole pushed that Undertaker’s retired for good, and it’s the end of the most unique character in WWE history.
Next Week: Sheamus has a special toast for Jeff Hardy.
As part of a “Tribute To The Undertaker,” WWE will air Undertaker and AJ Styles’ Boneyard Match from WrestleMania 36 on this week’s episode of SmackDown.
“With the WWE Universe still buzzing over the final chapter of WWE Network’s groundbreaking documentary Undertaker: The Last Ride, SmackDown will feature a special ‘Tribute To The Undertaker’ this Friday night,” WWE announced tonight.
“As part of the special recognition, the astonishing Boneyard Match between The Deadman and AJ Styles will air on television for the first time. As Superstars, legends, celebrities and fans have expressed their support for the sports-entertainment icon, the blue brand now gets to share the same message: Thank you, Taker.
“Join SmackDown in honoring The Undertaker and much more in another action-packed Friday night on FOX at 8/7 C”
The finale of the WWE Network’s Undertaker: The Last Ride series aired on Sunday. When talking about his future on the episode, The Undertaker said he has “no desire” to return to the ring. If Undertaker doesn’t return, the Boneyard Match will have been his final match.
Styles defending his Intercontinental title against Drew Gulak, Sheamus presenting “a toast to Jeff Hardy,” and Universal Champion Braun Strowman responding to Bray Wyatt have been announced for tomorrow’s SmackDown but aren’t currently being advertised on WWE.com. They aren’t listed on the preview for the show and the articles about them currently are no longer accessible.
This week’s SmackDown has been set to be taped at the WWE Performance Center tomorrow. In his report yesterday about multiple people in WWE testing positive for COVID-19, Dave Meltzer wrote that the Friday and Saturday tapings for two weeks of Raw and SmackDown were still scheduled as of then.
