WWE UK

Shade · Apr 1, 2024

WWE UK
EPISODE #136 | 15/06/20
Trigger Mortis
BT Sports Studio | London, England
Backstage Correspondents ~ Joanna Rose and Simon Miller
Commentary Team ~ John Gooden and Wade Barrett
Ring Announcer ~ Andy Shepherd

DARK MATCH: XYON QUINN VS. RICKY KNIGHT JR

Before the show would officially begin we'd be treated to a match between two performance center standouts as Xyon Quinn battled Ricky Knight Jr. This would be a hard hitting clash between these two standouts with RKJ landing some nasty chops and palm strikes on his opponent. The intense Quinn meanwhile responded with some vicious clotheslines and headbutts on his opponent. Turning from a contest into a war of hard hitting attrition, we'd see both men reeling at points thanks to some of the hard blows traded. This all culminated with Ricky Knight Jr picking up the huge victory after planting Quinn with a Death Valley Driver.

Winner: Ricky Knight Jr

Once again it is the song of Dear Life by Chasing Cadence which plays in the background as the latest edition of WWE UK opens from inside the BT Studio in London, England. With a small crowd in attendance we first begin with a recap of the previous weeks show. Focusing on some of the key moments of the previous week, this would begin with Session Moth's Beer Garden and the confrontation between Toni Storm and Xia Brookside. The video then shifts to another destructive Gunther performance before closing with Zack Gibson injuring his former partner James Drake. With that the cameras take us to John Gooden and Wade Barrett on commentary. While these two in the past have had some issues getting on the same page, it seems like gradually the pair was beginning to find some cohesion as they sent us to the ring.

As always starting out the proceedings is the tune that is Everytime we Touch by Cascada. With the lights in the building switching on and off with some flashing colored LED lights circling the ring. As this is going on to kick off the latest installment of Session Moth's Beer Garden, we see in the center of the ring Session Moth Martina is having the time of her life chugging a can of beer while having a dance party. With the crowd in attendance whooping along, Martina takes her dance party out of the ring and around the ringside area where she dances with some of the fans in attendance. Martina also tries to take this dance party to the commentary table and while John Gooden is willing to follow, Wade Barrett very much is not as inclined to be apart of the festivities. Returning to the ring in an effort to get her breath back Martina introduces herself and the latest installment of Session Moth's Beer Garden. Calling this show chaos at it's most fun and a show people are fighting to be on. Martina says that people are even going as far as to risk their careers to be on it like Toni Storm and Xia Brookside in tonight's main event. However for tonight's show she has a guest who she knows many wouldn't argue or fight with to be on it, as she introduces "The Guvnor" Anthony Ogogo!

Making his way down to the ring, "The Guvnor" of WWE UK is all smiles as he shakes hands and high fives several fans at ringside. Once he's in the ring Anthony shakes hands with Martina before he accepts a beer from the cooler in the center of the ring. Taking a seat on one of the benches, Anthony thanks Martina for letting him be a guest on her show. Saying that he is here tonight to speak about the UK Brand and his plans and designs for it as the Guvnor. Saying that after all the in fighting and uncertainty which the brand had suffered, he is here to bring an order and discipline to things. This is why first things first, next week he is calling for a meeting with Maria Kanellis and Mike Kanellis to discuss exactly what has been going on with the Throne and their attacks as of late. Citing that as the behavior he will not stand for, Anthony Ogogo calls that a discussion for another time as true to the vibe of this show. He is here to have a good time which is why he wants to give a little exclusive about the UK Rumbles. With the first rumble three weeks away Ogogo reveals that Rumble will be the Men's match while the week which follows will of course be the women's rumble.

Quickly Martina asks if she can be in the UK women's rumble but before Anthony can answer she starts laughing and says she's joking. Instead she asks if she can be on commentary for that rumble which Ogogo looks over at a bemused Barrett before smiling and saying of course. From here Anthony says he is aware that this week's show may not necessarily be following the format of the others since he has taken over. As there is no title match tonight and instead all he has done is asked both the WWE UK Women's champion and the WWE UK Champion to meet with him tonight. Stating that this was by design, Anthony Ogogo says that he hopes Session Moth doesn't mind but he's chosen to provide her show with an extra exclusive. Moth seems excited by this news as she tells Anthony that the floor is his while she sits back and cracks open another beer. As she does so, Anthony Ogogo says with this time he'd like to personally invite the WWE UK Women's Champion Jinny to come out!

The crowd boos as the theme song for the women's champion plays and soon Jinny walks out from the back. True to form however Jinny has not come alone as she is of course flanked by both Nina Samuels and Lana Austin. As she enters the ring, Jinny does not appear to be thrilled to be here or on Session Moth's show. Refusing any offer for a drink as she says that she doesn't associate herself with the common people. Jinny comes face to face with Anthony Ogogo, as he has been with every champion on his brand. Ogog is honest in his assessment of Jinny. Stating that while she will never win a popularity contest among the fans or wrestlers of WWE UK. There is no doubt that there is no a competitor on this brand willing to go to the lengths that Jinny will in order to be victorious. While he cannot always condone Jinny's actions, he respects the viciousness that she gives to those who oppose her. It reminds him of the lack of mercy he offered opponents in the ring. So now like every other champion Anthony has met, he'd like to see that viciousness and merciless behavior first hand next week.

As Jinny watches on Anthony says just like he has with all the other champions, he is offering Jinny the floor as a courtesy to select who she will be wrestling next week. Stepping forward with a confident smirk on her face, Jinny says she has to give Anthony credit as it seems that he has maintained some intellect following years of getting his brains beat out to recognize her greatness. Saying that the world had best get used to Jinny being a champion for a long, long time she says that she doesn't care about the UK Rumble as she already knows that one of the women by her side will be victorious. However she is willing to let one of them jump the queue so to speak and step up and challenge her next week. As Jinny turns with a smirk to her team, she is quickly cut off by Anthony Ogogo. Ogogo says while he respects what Jinny is trying to do, he will not allow her to make a mockery of him wanting to put credibility back into the brand and it's champions. This is why being aware that Jinny might try and pull something on this line he a countermeasure in place. So with that in mind he'd like to introduce Jinny's opponent for next week Sadie Gibbs!

The crowd explode into cheers as Sadie Gibbs walks out from the back. A livid Jinny in the ring orders her cohorts to get her but as they charge up the ramp Sadie crushes them with a double clothesline. Gibbs then rushes down to the ring, quickly Jinny tries to hit her with her title belt but Gibbs ducks under. From here Gibbs tries to press the women's champion over her head but Jinny manages to drop behind Sadie before making a swift exit from the ring. While Jinny backs up the ramp and with her cohorts, in the ring Sadie Gibbs poses and motions that she is coming for Jinny's title. After doing this she shakes hands with Anthony Ogogo before leaving the ring and heading to the back herself. Drinking all the way through this Martina loudly declares that the Beer Garden is the place to be for WWE UK exclusives and Ogogo follows that up by saying he has one more bit of business to conduct and he invites the WWE UK Champion Finn Balor to the ring!

The WWE UK Champion walks down to the ring to a loud cheer from the crowd and on entering the ring he accepts a beer from Martina before shaking hands with the Guvnor. Ogogo is quick to praise Finn Balor for everything he has done in his career and since joining the WWE UK Brand. Proudly proclaiming Finn Balor a legend and someone who the brand is proud to call it's champion. Anthony Ogogo says that what Finn Balor has done for WWE UK both in front of the camera and behind the scenes cannot be understated and he wants to be the first to thank Finn for what he has done while also saying that he hopes to continue to see big things from Finn Balor and the UK Brand as a united front. Balor nods his head out of appreciation for what Ogogo is saying before he stops Anthony from saying anymore. Saying that he is aware of what Ogogo is about to say next to him, that he is aware Anthony will be wanting to defend his title soon. So he says he has already made a decision on who and he just needs to know when.

With an impressed look in his eyes and a smile on his face, Anthony Ogogo says he likes dealing with someone like Finn Balor. A true straight shooter with whom he has no need to read between the lines. Which is why in return he can be equally as transparent. Revealing that in Balor's case his title match will be in two weeks time, Ogogo then says he will happily give Finn Balor the floor to announce his challenger. With that Anthony takes a seat next to Martina as the pair each open a beer and toast one another. With the microphone in hand Balor says that Anthony made a valid point earlier that the UK Brand has been through a lot. That the superstars of this brand all deserve better than what has been seen as the status quo for months. This is why Finn Balor isn't going to be a champion who cherry picks his defenses and takes an easy out. Instead what Finn Balor is going to do is offer an open door policy for his title. If someone is in the back and they think they deserve their shot than now is the time to come and get it!

To the absolute shock, horror and revulsion of the crowd in attendance Spike Trivet walks out from the back and the boos from the crowd immediately rain down upon him. The Vulture and self proclaimed Sovereign Lord of WWE UK has a smug smirk on his face as he walks down to the ring. Standing in the ring Finn Balor doesn't seem impressed in the slightest as Spike Trivet enters the ring before offering Balor a handshake. Balor shakes his head in response which causes Trivet to smirk before he pulls Finn's microphone from his hand. While holding the microphone up in his left hand, Trivet points to the watch on his wrist and declares tick, tock, tick, tock. Saying that every lord and ruler has a crown, he now knows that the crown meant for him is currently sat around the waist of a pretend Prince. Balor in response to this slaps the microphone out of Trivet's hand and gets in his face saying there is one thing that Trivet will soon learn that is who the real pretender is here. With a smile on his face Trivet backs up to the ropes and leaves the ring while Balor holds his title in the air as the show comes to a close.

MATCH #1: TEGAN NOX VS. HYAN

Kicking off the night's event in the ring would be a singles clash in the women's division as Tegan Nox battled Hyan. This bout would begin with a show of respect as both women shook hands with one another before getting things underway. This would be an entertaining, hard hitting, back and forth clash to open the night's event as Hyan looked to prove she could hang in there with a top contender and former champion. To her credit Hyan would hang in there with Tegan until a chokeslam proved to be the difference maker as Nox followed with a Shining Wizard to pick up a hard fought victory.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Tegan Nox!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and Tegan Nox gets to her feet in the ring. While Tegan Nox celebrates her hard fought victory, a dejected Hyan begins to sit up in the corner. Cutting her celebration short Nox walks over to Hyan and offers her a hand to help Hyan to her feet. Instead of accepting the offer however Hyan kicks Nox's hand away before pulling herself to her feet. The crowd begins a light series of boos while Hyan stares at Nox, after a moment Hyan then offers a handshake to Nox before nodding her head. Nox in return shakes Hyan's hand who is then quick to leave the ring.

~ No Remorse ~

The cameras then take us to the hallway where Zack Gibson is standing by. Having beaten and injured his former friend and tag team partner James Drake the week previous. Zack Gibson as we'd learn had personally requested this time to speak. Offering no sympathy or apology for what he's done the last few weeks or the injuries his former partner suffered at his hands. Zack Gibson says that all he has done is show the world who the real Grizzled Young Veteran is. Saying that he is sick and tired of being associated with losers and having anchors around his neck. Zack Gibson says that last week was just the beginning of him showing the world exactly what they can expect from Zack Gibson!

~ Unexpected offer ~

Following their respective teams having a confrontation last week. An invitation was offered by Ludwig Kaiser to sit down and meet with A-Kid. Taking place in a fancy bar setting, we'd see Ludwig Kaiser holding a glass of red wine in front of him when A-Kid walks into the bar. A-Kid seems taken aback by the setting as he sits down next to Ludwig Kaiser. Refusing to join him for a drink, A-Kid wants to know why Ludwig called him here. With a smile on his face Kaiser says he appreciates the forthcomingness of A-Kid. Calling last week a chaotic display which in his words wasn't a great representation for either team. Kaiser says that all this in fighting between Team White Wolf and the Foreign Legion, is beneath them. Instead he wants A-Kid to know that he has impressed him and wants him to consider them two being friends. As A-Kid weighs up this offer, the cameras fade out.

~ The arrivals ~

Ahead of the next match of the night the camera takes us to the office of "The Guvnor" Anthony Ogogo. Ogogo is all smiles as he continues to promote both the men's and women's Rumbles. Saying that he is very happy so far with the talent set to participate both those apart of the roster and those special guests coming in. Anthony says that he is continuing to scout and negotiate with talents to fill the remaining spaces. In the meantime however similar to tonight's show, there will be a preview of some of the new exciting talents who will be participating in the UK Rumble. This is why Ogogo is proud to confirm that next week Alex Gracia, AQA, Rachel Ellering, Bryan Keith and Charlie Dempsey will all be competing in matches as part of the UK brand.

MATCH #2: ALEAH JAMES VS. ELIZA ALEXANDER

The second bout of the evening was a proving ground match between WWE UK performance center standouts. In one corner would be the brash and out spoken Eliza Alexander while opposing her would be the rising young athlete Aleah James. This would be a back and forth clash with Aleah James flying all over the ring and showing her athleticism. Alexander meanwhile countered this with some hard striking but often took her eyes off the prize as she'd jaw back and forth with the crowd. Following a short back and forth bout Aleah James tried to roll up Alexander, only for Alexander to steal the fall using the ropes for support.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Eliza Alexander!

The crowd boos as Eliza Alexander rolls out of the ring. While a smug Alexander quickly darts up the ramp and makes her way backstage we see in the ring a distraught Aleah James begin to take a knee.

~ Reunited ~

From here the cameras take us backstage to the hallway as we see Ilja Dragunov and Mark Andrews come face to face. The last time this pair were together they were of course the final men standing following the War of the Roses tag team match. The pair are all business as they discuss the ongoing issues they've had with the throne. Agreeing to stand together once more to take the Throne down once and for all. The duo are soon joined by Adam Brooks who makes it clear that he has fought against the Throne as much as anyone and if they are going to take a stand, then he is in!

~ Secrets Shared ~

Post show footage is then played from the previous week's show. Filmed from inside the medic's office, we see Doug Williams getting checked over following his bout with Kassius Ohno. Watching this on from the corner in silence is Gabriel Kidd. Recognizing Kidd's frustration, Doug tells him to spit it out. In response Kidd says that Williams shouldn't have took that match and now he's injured from it. Williams says that he'd rather be injured then left with the question of what if. Saying to Kidd he hopes with training that he will recognize this. It is then Doug tells Kidd to be prepared for the UK rumble coming up as that should be his sole focus.

~ Black Swan ~

Cara Noir is coming soon!

MATCH #3: SHIGEHIRO IRIE VS. DAMIEN CORVIN

The third bout of the night would be a clash of Heavyweights as Shigehiro Irie took on UK Performance Center standout Damien Corvin. This would be a hard hitting battle of wills as the pair of Heavyweights hit one another with the best shots they had to offer. Corvin very much was full of aggression and intensity as he looked to take the fight to his opponent. However Irie more than lived up to his impressive reputation as he hit Corvin with a brutal combination beginning with a death valley driver into the corner followed by a cannonball senton. Not long after this Irie clobbered Corvin with a Beast Bomber for the win.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Shigehiro Irie!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and Shigehiro Irie rises to his feet in the ring. While Irie has his arm raised in victory, he soon finds himself joined in the ring by Eddie Dennis. Holding out a business card, Eddie Dennis looks to recruit Irie to his cause. Unfortunately for Dennis, his recruitment attempt backfires as Irie lays him out with a lariat in the ring.

~ Next Addition ~

The cameras then cut to the hallway of the arena where Ridge Holland is standing by. The enforcer for Spike Trivet, Ridge Holland says that with his employer set to become the next WWE UK Champion. It is time for Ridge Holland to carry out the next step of his bosses' orders and follow through on the command of his Sovereign Lord. This is why Ridhe Holland is going to be entering and winning the WWE UK Rumble. It is then that Holland follows by stating that the Sovereign Lord has made it clear that should any wise individual in the rumble find the intelligence to help Holland complete his mission. That they would be richly compensated for their efforts!

~ Declarations ~

From here the cameras direct us to the locker room where Aussie Open are standing by with Simon Miller. The tag team champions are believed to have personally requested this TV time to discuss what is next for them with WWE UK. The pair say that they have so far cleaned out the WWE UK Tag Team Division. This is why they are taking a little step out of the division to compete in the UK Rumble. Asked about what they are looking to past the UK Rumble, the Tag Team Champions confidently brand themselves as the best team in the world and they will continue to prove that fact.

~ Dimensional~

"The Fourth Dimensional" Stevie Turner will compete in the UK Rumble!

MATCH #4: NATHAN CRUZ W/KATHERINE DARCY VS. SUGE D

The fourth bout of the night would be a bit of a grudge match as veterans Nathan Cruz and Suge D did battle. This bout of course came about following a confrontation the pair had the week previous. True to what we have come to expect from Nathan Cruz, a lot of this bout would be spent between the ring and Nathan Cruz looking to keep watch on his girlfriend Katherine Darcy. This all culminated with an argument breaking out between Cruz and Darcy which saw Darcy storming to the back. This distraction allowed Suge D to connect with Air Dunkerton on Cruz for the upset win!

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Suge D!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and Suge D climbs to his feet. While Suge D celebrates his victory, a stunned Nathan Cruz rolls out of the ring in an effort to recoup.

~ Curiosity ~

The cameras then play footage from earlier in the show and it focuses on Rampage Brown making his arrival to the building. Brown is surprised to find Ashton Smith waiting for him. These former friends as well as former foes seem to be at least for now quite civil with one another. Ashton is quick to ask Rampage Brown why he confronted Gunther the week previous. In response to this Rampage Brown says that he has long sought to be the top heavyweight in the UK and he sees Gunther as true competition that he has not had to face before. With that Brown closes this segment by saying he is here for Gunther.

~ Choices ~

Having stormed backstage following her earlier confrontation Katherine Darcy looks to be making her exit from the building when she bumps into Angelico. While at first Angelico is sincere as he checks to see if Darcy is ok. The pair soon get a little more flirtative as Angelico asks Darcy why she is even with someone like Cruz. Darcy doesn't answer as Angelico calls Nathan a loser and tells her she can do better than being with a loser. It is then that Angelico gives Darcy his number and tells her to give him a call if she'd like to be with a winner.

MATCH #5: SANTANA GARETT VS. MILLIE MCKENZIE

The next bout of the night would be a bit of a grudge match in it's own right as the veteran Santana Garrett battled British Strong Style's Millie McKenzie. Looking to prove she can hang with the WWE UK talent, Santana Garrett entered in a spirited showing against the dangerous Millie McKenzie. Unfortunately for Santana it wouldn't take long for Millie to begin landing a series of nasty high angle suplexes. With Garrett stunned from these pounding suplexes, Millie wasted little time putting her away with a Whiplash neckbreaker.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Millie McKenzie!

The crowd boos as the announcement is made and Millie McKenzie climbs to her feet. While Millie has her arm raised in victory, a disappointed Santana Garrett falls out of the ring and to the floor.

~ Strong Strategy ~

From here the cameras take us back to the locker room area where Millie's cohorts Trent Seven and Tyler Bate are watching on proudly. With Seven proclaiming Millie the winner of the UK Women's Rumble, talk soon turns to the Men's UK rumble. Focusing firstly on Pete Dunne, Tyler and Trent make it clear that he is a problem and one that they will set about eradicating. After that they will clear the field and make sure that the winner of the WWE UK Men's Rumble is fully on board as a representative of British Strong Style!

~ Influenced ~

A post show promo from last week is then played and it focuses on the tag team of Australia's Hottest Commodities. The pair of Indi Hartwell and Persia Pirotta are full of bluster as they take numerous selfies and videos of themselves during this promo. Calling Kai and Niven deluded for thinking they could beat someone of their high level status. Indi Hartwell and Persia Pirotta make it clear that they aren't clout chasers, they are the real deal and that will be on display when one of them becomes the winner of the UK Women's Rumble!

~ The Total Diva ~

"The Total Diva" Jessi Kamea debuts at UK Rumble

MATCH #6: KAY LEE RAY VS. JAYDE W/TEOMAN AND ISLA DAWN

A women's match would be the next port of call for the evening as Kay Lee Ray battled Jayde. With Isla Dawn and Teoman watching on from ringside we'd see the usually more technical Jayde instead be uncharacteristically aggressive in the early going. Unfortunately for Jayde she'd play right into Kay Lee Ray's game with Kay Lee Ray rocking her with a big superkick. From this Kick to the jaw we'd see that it didn't take long for Kay Lee Ray to then put her opponent away with a gory bomb.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Kay Lee Ray!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and Kay Lee Ray climbs to her feet. While Kay Lee Ray stands tall in the ring she soon comes face to face with Isla Dawn. Having ordered Teoman to stay at ringside, the pair stare down in the ring before Kay Lee Ray leaves. From here Isla Dawn turns to Jayde and has a look of anger on her face. Screaming at her that she is disappointed Dawn follows by pulling Jayde to her feet. From here Dawn says that she will handle things on her terms.

"The Russian Crush" Natalia Markova will compete in the UK Rumble!

Man Like Deriess will compete in the UK Rumble!

~ Rematch ~

Ahead of the main event, the cameras take us to the hallway where a confrontation is being intercepted by security. Standing across one another in the hallway are both Kid Lykos and Nathan Frazier who seem to have unfinished business from the week previous. Rushing onto the scene is Anthony Ogogo who again makes it clear that he will not tolerate behavior like this as long as he is the Guvnor of this brand. This is why next week if these two are so keen to get back at one another, then they can have their rematch in the ring! But as for tonight, he orders security to kick this pair out of the building.

MAIN EVENT: TONI STORM VS. XIA BROOKSIDE

Finally in the main event of the evening it would be a loser leaves the UK Brand clash between Toni Storm and Xia Brookside. With all the bad blood going into this match not too mention the high stakes. This would be a hard hitting, physical clash between both women. This would be a back and forth battle of wills with numerous near falls and narrow escapes. Storm for her part despite showing a willingness to bend the rules very much looked like the Toni Storm of old at points during the contest. After hitting Brookside with a Storm Zero it appeared that Toni had the bout won only for Xia to kick out just before the three. Looking to end things once and for all, Storm climbed the turnbuckle and attempted to pull Xia up with her only for Xia to counter with a Brookside Bomb! The crowd are on their feet as a winded Toni stumbles to her feet only to be met with a code breaker. Storm is staggering but refusing to go down until Brookside follows with the Broken Wings. Storm collapses on the mat and Brookside makes the cover. 1...2...3

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Xia Brookside!

The crowd explode into cheers as the announcement is made and Xia Brookside climbs to her feet. Having her hand raised in victory, Xia Brookside is overcome with emotion having picked up this big victory. Slowly while Xia's celebration continues, we see Toni Storm begin to come to with the realization of her defeat sinking in. Shaking her head as she pulls herself to her feet, Toni Storm slowly walks to Xia Brookside in the center of the ring. Standing across from Xia, Toni nods her head with a feint, weak smile before she snatches Brookside in a hug. The pair embrace in the ring much to the delight of the audience in attendance before the show comes to a close with Toni Storm standing tall in the UK ring for the last time.

(c)WORLDWRESTLINGENTERTAINMENT

Shade · Apr 1, 2024

WWE UK NEWSWIRE

Departure confirmed

It has been confirmed today that following this past week's edition of WWE UK that Toni Storm has officially finished up her tenure with the WWE UK Brand. This is seen as shocking to many with Storm of course being one of the true originals of the WWE UK Women's division. It is believed in similar fashion to some other recent departures from the brand such as Dakota Kai, Piper Niven, Emma and Deonna Purrazo that Storm very much had earned rave reviews for her work and is due an immediate call up. Plans are said to be in motion for Toni Storm to head to the main roster on it's Monday Night Raw brand but in the meantime Storm like Dakota Kai and Emma will be helping establish the NXT Australia Women's Division!

WWE UK RUMBLE PARTICIPANTS UPDATE

MEN'S UK RUMBLE	WOMEN'S UK RUMBLE
1. Angelico	1. Raquel Lourenco
2. Michael Oku	2. Aleah James
3. Suge D	3. Kanji
4. Nathan Frazier	4. Candy Floss
5. Ludwig Kaiser	5. Laura Di Matteo
6. Clement Petiot	6. Hyan
7. Tyler Bate	7. Santana Garrett
8. Trent Seven	8. Eliza Alexander
9. A-Kid	9. Amale
10. Carlos Romo	10. Mariah May
11. Asher Hale	11. Nina Samuels
12. JD Drake	12. Lana Austin
13. Kid Lykos	13. Millie McKenzie
14. Gabriel Kidd	14. Amber Nova
15. Pete Dunne	15. Xia Brookside
16. Shigehiro Irie	16. AQA
17. Bryan Keith	17. Alex Gracia
18. Charlie Dempsey	18. Rachel Ellering
19. Mark Davis	19. Indi Hartwell
20. Kyle Fletcher	20. Persia Pirotta
21. Ridge Holland	21. Stevie Turner
22. Man Like Dereiss	22. Jessie Kamea
23. Ashton Smith	23. Natalia Markova

Shade · Apr 4, 2024

WWE UK NEXT SHOW PREVIEW

WWE UK WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
JINNY (C) VS. SADIE GIBBS

The WWE UK Women's championship will be on line this coming week as we learned in the latest installment of Session Moth's Beer Garden. Continuing Ogogo's decree of every champion defending their title since becoming the WWE UK's Guvnor. Time fell on Jinny to make her selection for her opponent. True to form Jinny tried to manipulate her choice by selecting one of her house of couture stablemates. Unfortunately for her this would backfire with an unimpressed Anthony Ogogo. Instead Ogogo would select Jinny's opponent to be the undefeated and undeniable "Super prospect". Currently standing as 9-0 since her arrival to the WWE UK Brand, Sadie Gibbs has yet to be defeated in the brand. Will she be our next women's champion or will Jinny be the first to defeat the Super Prospect?

EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
GUNTHER (C) VS. RAMPAGE BROWN

The European Championship is also up for grabs on this week's show as Gunther makes his third title defense. This time around however he will not take on a technician and veteran like Shelton Benjamin or an unorthodox, sadist like Joseph Conners. Instead Gunther will be stepping in the ring with a no nonsense, hard nosed brawler like himself to an extent as he battles Rampage Brown. This bout is said to have come about following a face off the pair had 2 weeks ago and a meeting Rampage had with Anthony Ogogo at the culmination of this weeks show. Will Rampage Brown be able to dethrone the Ring General?

GRUDGE MATCH
CARLOS ROMO VS. CLEMENT PETIOT

Two teams who have been at one another's throats as of late are Team White Wolf and The Foreign Legion. Two rising teams who as personalities couldn't be more different. It does seem however that the clash in personalities only is going so far in the teams however. As it seems like Ludwig Kaiser has for reasons unknown been trying to befriend A-Kid. While these two may be civil, the same could not be said for their tag team partners. With Petiot and Romo both known for being the more hot headed it is no surprise that they have wound up on this collision course. Who will be victorious in this singles clash?

PROVING GOUND
ALEX GRACIA VS. AQA VS. RACHEL ELLERING

Triple threat action will also be on the cards as three women recently confirmed to be appearing in the UK Rumble will make their WWE UK debuts. In one corner is the second generation, hard hitting Rachel Ellering who will look to very much honor her family history of success in the wrestling business. While opposing her is the rising, young prospect mentored by WWE hall of famer Booker T himself, AQA. Rounding out this trio is the vain, pink dream Alex Gracia which makes this contest quite the interesting combination of personalities and in ring skill sets. Which prospect will pick up their first win?

NON TITLE
KASSIUS OHNO VS. CHARLIE DEMPSEY

Curiously the WWE UK Commonwealth Champion Kassius Ohno will also be in action in a bout he is believed to have personally requested. Stepping in the ring against the wrestling purist will be none other than WWE UK Performance center standout Charlie Dempsey. The reason for this request is due to Dempsey's father William Regal being one of Ohno's mentors in the business and trainers. Now it seems that Kassius is looking to perhaps pass on that tradition by being Charlie Dempsey's first opponent in a WWE UK ring. How will Dempsey fare against the commonwealth champion in his debut?

THE BOUNTY HUNTER DEBUTS
GABRIEL KIDD VS. BRYAN KEITH

This week's show will also feature the WWE UK in ring debut of Bryan Keith. The bounty Hunter is a standout of WWE UK partner ROW and is set to compete in the upcoming UK rumble match. Before that, the talented Booker T trained prospect will step into the ring for singles action. Standing against Bryan Keith in this bout will be a young, rising WWE UK prospect Gabriel Kidd. Similar to Keith, Kidd has a respected mentor also in veteran Doug Williams. The difference being that for Kidd, this training is just as much as case of keeping his emotions in check. Can Kidd keep his head on straight against the Bounty Hunter?

TAG TEAM ACTION
ASHER HALE AND JD DRAKE VS. BRIXIA BONE BREAKERS

Lastly on the card we know that tag team action is set for the night as the recently debuted team of Asher Hale and JD Drake aka the Workhorsemen will be in action. This veteran pairing are set to take on a rising European tag team by the name of the Brixia Bone Breakers. The pair of Mirko Mori and Nico Inveradi very much are similar in their styles to their opponents with Mori being quite the brawler while Nico makes up for this substance with a lot more technical and high flying action. Will The Brixia Bone Breakers be able to upset Hale and Drake or will the Workhorsemen's success continue?

Shade · Apr 7, 2024

NXT JAPAN: THE STORY SO FAR

Following the acclaimed success of NXT and the current impressive track record of WWE UK. It was no surprise that WWE would attempt to further it's global outreach. This would all begin with two locations which are both hotbeds of wrestling. One of course being Mexico while the other which is the focus of this article being Japan. A country rich with wrestling history and talent. With names such as Antonio Inoki and Tatsumi Fujinami occupying spots in the Hall of Fame while wrestlers such as Shinsuke Nakamura and Asuka had become stars and icons in their own right. The launch of NXT Japan was something which WWE took very seriously. In order to kickstart this promotion WWE would take advantage not just of it's friendship with hall of famer Tatsumi Fujinami but also by using stars who'd previously been big headline acts in Japan to build relationships.

This included names such as Shinsuke Nakamura, Finn Balor, AJ Styles, Asuka, Kairi Sane, Io Shirai and several others. Aided by the efforts of Triple H and William Regal we'd quickly learn thanks to connections already established this brand would see the return of Meiko Satomura to WWE along with several standouts from her Sendai Girls promotion. Along with this we'd see slowly WWE begin to form relationships with promotions such as All Japan Pro Wrestling, NOAH and Zero 1 among others. This allowed WWE to use talents from their promotions as part of it's programing while also in returning affording these promotions chances to use some of the WWE's bigger names with storied history in Japan on their shows. We'd also see the likes of Daniel Bryan, Sheamus and Cesaro appear on various shows in high profile matches as a means to sweeten the pot.

With news confirming that shows would be held at the Zepp Tokyo. We'd quickly be given some exciting news about the NXT Japan performance center. For while Meiko Satomura would be leading training for the Joshi's division and would be aided in doing so by Kaoru Maeda and Manami Toyota. We'd see on the men's side of training there would be quite the cast of trainers. Headed by none other than Japanese wrestling legend Jun Akiyama. Aiding Akiyama in training would be Taka Michinoku and Dick Togo. Later the pair would also be joined by veteran Kaz Hayashi and also Hideki Suzuki. Thanks to the names involved in the coaching and reports that already set for the roster will be Akira Tozawa, Ikemen Jiro, Io Shirai and regular appearances from Asuka and Kairi Sane. We'd learn that recent signing Sarray would also be set to feature in the promotion. It was also confirmed that WWE would be sending some developmental prospects to NXT Japan to continue their training as Boa, Erica Yan and Dante Chen were sent from NXT. While Chris Ridgeway, Dan Moloney, Carlos Zamora and Charli Evans left WWE UK to go to Japan.

One former WWE name also returning for NXT Japan would be Funaki. The former Cruiserweight champion and backstage announcer would return in a backstage interviewer type role. After this we'd learn of a big name addition to the brand as a veteran of the Japanese wrestling scene who had been a noted freelancer would put pen to paper with WWE. This name of course would be Minoru Suzuki who as we'd learn would not only be competing on the televised shows but would also begin working in a backstage capacity also. One promotion WWE did try to form a relationship with in this time would be New Japan Pro Wrestling. Despite previous issues these promotions had once before, it was said these meetings were civil but sadly because of this past history a working relationship could not be established.

However what did happen curiously following this conversation was a deal was brokered for WWE to bring in Hirooki Goto. A long time mid card standout in New Japan, it is believed that WWE had designs on making Hirooki Goto a top star. Following some recruitment and deals made we'd see a full roster published on WWE's website which also revealed that Tatsumi Fujinam would be making regular appearances for the promotion. While the roster as a whole was large, it had been noted this was by design with a lot of the elder statesmen on the roster gradually reverting into trainer or agent roles backstage once they'd helped further the development of the mostly younger roster which was mixed in with some established names.

Tatsumi Fujinami - NXT Japan Match Maker and president
Katsuya Ichikawa - Play by Play
Fuka Kakimoto - Color Commentary
Shoichi Funaki - Backstage Interviewer
Aika Ando - Ring Announcer
Mio Shirai - Referee

Akira Tozawa
Andreuw Tang
Ayato Yoshida
Ben-K
Boa
BXB Hulk
Carlos Zamora
Chris Ridgeway
CIMA
Daichi Hashimoto
Daisuke Sekimoto
Dan Moloney
Dante Chen - Sent on Excursion by NXT
Dick Togo - Also acting as one of the head trainers of the Japanese performance Center
EITA
El Linderman
Fuminori Abe
Go Shiozaki
Hideki Suzuki
Hirooki Goto
Ikemen Jiro
Jason Lee
Kaito Ishida
Kaz Hayashi - Also one of the trainers at the Japanese performance center
Kazuki Hashimoto
Kento Miyahara
Konosuke Takeshita
Kushida
Masaaki Mochizuki
Minoru Suzuki
Puma (TJ Perkins)
Ru Feng - Sent on Excurstion by NXT
Shigehiro Irie
Takashi Suguira
Tajiri - one of the trainers at the NXT Japan Performance Center
Taka Michinoku - One of the trainers at the NXT Japan Performance Center
T-Hawk
Yamato
Yuji Okabayashi
Yuki Ueno

Akari
Alexis Lee
Arisa Hoshiki
Arisa Nakajima
Charli Evans
Dash Chisako
Erica Yan - Sent on excursion by NXT
Giulia
Hikari Noa
Hikari Shimizu
Hiroyo Matsumoto
Io Shirai
Kairi Sane
Mayu Iwatani
Mei Suruga
Meiko Satomura
Mika Iwata
Mio Momono
Miyu Yamashita
Miyuki Takase
Nagisa Nozaki
Natsu Sumire
Reika Saiki
Reo Hazuki
Sarray
Syuri Kondo
Tam Nakano
Thekla
Yuki Kamifuku

The goal for NXT Japan was very much to have it's own particular identity and act as a true homage to Japanase wrestling while developing stars for the future. Run very much in a sports based presentation which brought back the importance of every match and the ups and downs combined with defeat and victory. A hefty portion of NXT Japan was spent in the ring with the action being the main focus. Segments backstage would be quite limited with the segments being saved for post show exclusives which saw competitors in the night participate in press conference like set ups with Funaki doing a lot of the questions for those in attendance. Further giving the brand it's own identity was it's authority figure Tatsumi Fujinami.

Unlike many shows which are guilty of over featuring their authority figure or needlessly inserting them on television. In the case of Tatsumi Fujinami and his title of Match Maker, he would overall be quite hands off and keep his appearances brief and to the point. One thing Fujinami did declare however would be that every championship in NXT Japan would have to be earned and not given. This is why in order to crown the first ever NXT Japan Heavyweight Champion and also the first ever NXT Japan Joshi Champion there would be two 8 person tournaments held at the same time. On top of this as Fujinami would follow by announcing a four way tag team match to crown the NXT tag team champions and a gauntlet match to crown the first ever NXT Junior Heavyweight champion.

Starting with the Heavyweight Championship picture, we'd begin with the 8 man tournament which included Minoru Suzuki, Hirooki Goto, Takashi Suguira, Hideki Suzuki, Go Shiozaki, Yoshihiro Tajiri, Chris Ridgeway and Masaaki Mochizuki. The opening round of this tournament would begin with a hard hitting bout between Hirooki Goto and England's Chris Ridgeway which culminated in a win for Goto. Following this we'd see Minoru Suzuki accompanied by both Taka Michinoku and Dick Togo defeat Yoshihiro Tajiri. Takashi Suguira would defeat Masaaki Mochizuki while the final match saw Go Shiozaki defeat Hideki Suzuki. However one curious moment happened after Suguira's match which was Masaaki refused a handshake and instead landed a hard leg kick to Suguira which appeared to compromise his leg. This compromised leg would be a target in Suguira's match with Suzuki who forced a submission with a heel hook.

The second semi final would see Hirooki Goto defeat Go Shiozaki in another hard hitting war. During the pre match conferences for the final we'd see Minoru Suzuki joined by Taka, Togo and also Mochizuki. Goto meanwhile found himself allied with a young lion he'd taken under his ring by the name of Daichi Hashimoto. Hashimoto of course was the son of the legendary Shinya Hashimoto. The bond between Goto and Daichi would be based on the respect Goto had for his father. Shockingly however during the finals of the tournament Daichi would betray Goto and land a kick to the back of his head during his match with Suzuki. This would allow Minoru Suzuki to put Goto away following a gotch style piledriver. Joined in the ring for his post match celebration having become the NXT Japan Heavyweight champion. Suzuki's celebration was more akin to a mugging as he was joined by Masaaki Mochizuki, Taka Michinoku, Dick Togo and Daichi Hashimoto in beating down Goto. An attempt to do a rescue would be made by Go Shiozaki and Takashi Suguira but soon we'd see Suzuki's group be joined by Ben-K, Drilla Moloney, Eita, Kaito Ishida, Kazuki Hashimoto and Puma.

In the press conference following the event Suzuki would introduce his faction as the Suzuki Nation. He'd also reveal that his group would be joined by women's wrestlers Dash Chisako, Syuri Kondo, Alexis Lee and Tam Nakano. Shown to be a highly vicious faction of thugs reminiscent of a biker gang. Minoru Suzuki's group very much violated the code of ethics which the NXT Japan brand had. This would include backstage attacks and pre or post match beatdowns. Along with this matches for Suzuki's championship would be littered with liberal cheating, maliciousness and interference. This would be on firm display over the next couple of months as Suzuki would use these tactics to defeat the likes of Go Shiozaki, Takashi Suguira and Hideki Suzuki. However soon he'd find himself with an old foe emerging as Hirooki Goto looked to get his rematch. In the road to doing so Suzuki would defeat the likes of Ben-K, Puma and his former friend Daichi Hashimoto to set up a match with Suzuki at Gendai Budo!

With a Tournament to crown it's first champion in a similar light to the Heavyweight tournament. The Joshi championship would have Io Shirai, Mayu Iwatani, Syuri Kondo, Sarray, Hiroyo Matsumoto, Dash Chisako, Kairi Sane and Miyu Yamashita. The opening round would begin with Io Shirai defeating Dash Chisako, while her friend Kairi Sane defeated Hiroyo Matsumoto. Mayu Iwatani defeated Sarray and to close the opening round Syuri Kondo would defeat Miyu Yamashita with help from her Suzuki Nation team mates. Round two would see Io Shirai defeat Syuri as she'd manage to overcome the odds against Suzuki Nation. Meanwhile in an emotional clash of friends Mayu Iwatani defeated Kairi Sane leading to the finals which would see Mayu take on another friend of hers Io Shirai. Having both made it to the finals this would be a respectful clash between the two. At least at first, however as the bout wore on it seemed the bonds of friendship between the pair were being tested. In the end Io would pick up the victory, however after the match it seemed that Iwatani was reluctant to join in her friend's celebration.

Despite this the pair would shake hands eventually and all would seemingly be well. However unfortunately for Io, this wouldn't be the only thread left for her as having defeated two of the Suzuki Nation in the tournament, she'd find herself a target of the group of Alexis Lee, Tam Nakano, Dash Chisako and Syuri Kondo. Of the group it seemed that Kondo was the leader of sorts and short caller. During one attack at a press conference on Io, we'd see Kairi Sane try and even the odds only to be assaulted also. This would spur on Mayu Iwatani to join the fray and run the group off. Yet despite this it seemed things still weren't on point between Mayu and Io as a miscommunication cost them a tag team match against the pairing of Alexis Lee and Tam Nakano. A post match confrontation between Io and Mayu however would see the pair be attacked once more by the Suzuki Nation with this time Kairi Sane being the one to make the save.

Looking to get her friends back on the same page, Kairi teamed with Io Shirai in a match against Tam Nakano and Dash Chisako with the duo picking up an impressive victory. She'd then do the same with Mayu Iwatani as the pair defeated Dash Chisako and Alexis Lee. Unfortunately in a six person tag team match which also included Syuri Kondo, Kairi would fall victim to the miscommunication herself allowing Kondo to land a spin kick to the back of her head for the win. With Io and Mayu seeing the error of the ways of sorts they would help Kairi up before Kairi yelled at both to get on the right path. It would be then that Kairi laid down the challenge, an 8 woman elimination tag team match for the Gendai Budo. This would lead to the shocking revelation that the 4th woman on Kairi's team would be her Kabuki Warrior's team mate Asuka!

Unlike the Heavyweight and Joshi Championships, the tag team titles were decided in a solitary bout. This being a four team tag team match. The teams involved would include Daisuke Sekimoto and Yuji Okabayashi, Eita and Kazuki Hashimoto and Cima and El Lindaman. The bout would end of course with the popular powerhouse pairing of Daisuke Sekimoto and Yuji Okabayashi being victorious. From here the pair like many on the roster would find themselves frequently at odds with the Suzuki Nation most notably the pairing of Eita and Kazuki Hashimoto. This pair would usually be accompanied to the ring by Kaz Hayashi who acted as a troubling presence at ringside of the pair. While Daisuke and Yuji would overcome them they'd also have to contend with another Suzuki Nation unit comprised of Kaito Ishida and Drilla Moloney. Despite facing these odds, Yuji and Daisuke would reign victorious.

Soon however they'd find themselves facing tag teams just as dangerous but not affiliated with the Nation. This would include Cima and El Lindaman and also the pairing of Carlos Zamora and Yuki Endo. As these bouts would continue, the cameras would show a veteran tag team of Yamato and BxB Hulk watching from in the crowd. This established the duo as an experienced team looking to make their mark on the tag team division. During a press conference Sekimoto and Yuji made it clear that they would defend against any and all comers. This led to an in ring confrontation in which the pair of Yamato and BxB Hulk challenged the duo to a tag team championship match at the Gendai Budo!

The final title set to be defended at the Gendai Budo would be the NXT Japan Junior Heavyweight Championship. To crown this title we'd be treated to a gauntlet match featuring 6 of the top Junior Heavyweights on the brand. This included Puma, Akira Tozawa, T-Hawk, Andreuw Tang, Jason Lee and Taka Michinoku. In what was quite the surprise and upset we'd see T-Hawk pick up the victory to be crowned the first ever Junior Heavyweight Champion. From here T-Hawk would find himself frequently battling against the likes of Puma, Taka Michinoku and even had a match against his mentor Cima. During all of these bouts we would see T-Hawk continue to grow as a champion both in the ring and in his overall presentation.

Wishing to prove himself as the best Junior Heavyweight in Japan, T-Hawk continued to take on all comers as he beat the likes of Ikemen Jiro. But soon he'd find himself with his biggest challenge yet. As following a press conference T-Hawk would be met by Tatsumi Fujinami who confirmed that he'd begin bringing in top challengers to compete against T-Hawk. This began with T-Hawk defeating Carlos Zamora before Funaki confirmed that at the Gendai Budo, T-Hawk would face his toughest challenge yet! It would be then that a vignette played revealing that Kushida was coming to NXT Japan and in his debut match he would be challenging for the Junior Heavyweight Championship!

While a lot of focus through the first few months of NXT Japan focused on the Suzuki Nation, two names who'd very much stand out away from this saga would be Kaito Kiyomiha and Kento Miyahara. Top names from NOAH and All Japan respectively both of these two men were quickly established as future contenders for the NXT Japan Heavyweight Championship. While we'd see Kento Miyahara win a short rivalry with Fuminori Abe. Kaito Kiyomiha would appear semi frequently but when he would he picked up impressive victories over former title contender Hideki Suzuki and also Ayato Yoshida. With both men regularly being victorious on these shows, they'd tend to cross paths a fair bit at the press conferences. While both men remained civil with one another, it seemed there was some underlying tension between the pair with both at points refusing the offer of a handshake.

With this seeming lack of respect with one another, it wouldn't take long for Funaki to begin asking the pair if there was in fact an issue between them. While at first both men would deny as such, quickly the pair would begin to offer little subtle jabs at one another regarding the fact that they had never wrestled one another yet both were the so called top dogs of their promotions and companies. Clearly a case of two alphas being put in the same enclosure, a match between them was a forgone conclusion as they'd finally get the match booked. This first contest between the pair was an epic clash and one which lasted the entire duration of an edition of NXT Japan before the bout culminated with a 60 minute time limit draw. Unfortunately from this bout it seemed nothing was resolved and instead only heightened as the pair would continue fighting after the bell, leading to the booking of their rematch at the Gendai Budo!

Having assumed a role backstage as the head trainer for the NXT Japan Joshi's division. Meiko Satomura very much for a few weeks didn't step into the ring perhaps as much as fans would like. Instead Satomura would be seen as a ringside presence for many of the women's contests as she chose to watch the progression of her students. This included the likes of Arisa Hoshiki, Charli Evans, Erica Yan and countless others. Unfortunately while Meiko Satomura may have wanted to be a silent presence at ringside, a legend of her status would attract frequent attention and sadly in this case it would be unwanted. This would be thanks to a recently debuted Giulia and her partner Thekla, both of whom seemed to want to Antagonize Meiko at every turn. The reason for this being that Giulia believed she should have been apart of the women's tournament and that it was Meiko who blocked her.

Over the coming weeks Giulia would wrestle and defeat many of Meiko's students, sometimes with ease thanks to her experience and stature. During which time Giulia would even go as far as to use some of Meiko's own moves against her students. As Giulia and Thekla's actions grew more disrespectful we'd see it was only a matter of time before Meiko Satomura would enter the ring and back them off. Unfortunately for Meiko however, after one match which saw Giulia beat Mei Suruga, Satormura's heroism put her in a trap as Mei blindsided Meiko leading to a three on one beating in the middle of the ring. Having taken enough disrespect from Giulia and her allies, Meiko would agree to finally step into the ring firstly with a win over Mei Suruga and not long after she'd beat Thekla. This would then set up a clash between Meiko and Giulia at the upcoming Gendai Budo!

Over the course of the first few months of NXT Japan, there was quite a few standout talents and moments not featured in rivalries so to speak or the title picture that prominently. One of which was the spirited efforts being entered in almost weekly by Sarray. Having been eliminated from the Women's tournament it seemed Sarray had a point to prove and had gone on an impressive 5 match winning streak before sadly having it snapped by Syuri Kondo. Another name from the woman's tournament on the rise was Hiroyo Matsumoto, who had proven herself to be a highly dangerous competitor who had picked up several dominant victories. A more humorous note would come from an unlikely team of Akira Tozawa and Ikemen Jiro, while the duo hadn't had much success so far in the singles ranks or the tag team ranks. The pair who as a duo had opted for the name of Jackets and Blankets, had proven to be a popular hit with the NXT Japan fans.

One standout who'd also become quite popular was the Heavyweight Shigehiro Irie. A hard hitting bruiser who put on entertaining battles every time he stepped in the ring. Irie seemed poised to move up the card after wars with the likes of Fuminori Abe and others. However Irie's win streak did seem to attract a less popular standout, this being NXT export Boa who so far hadn't won over or impressed the fans in attendance. Seemingly lurking at ringside during Irie's matches, Boa would finally strike following Irie's battle with Dante Chen, spraying Irie in the face with Green Mist. With Irie blinded Boa followed with a kick to the head to set up a match at the Gendai Budo! One last name of reference would be of top prospect Konosuke Takeshita who had several vignettes promoting his upcoming arrival!

GENDAI BUDO CARD

Minoru Suzuki (c) vs. Hirooki Goto - NXT Japan Heavyweight Championship
Io Shirai, Mayu Iwatani, Kairi Sane and Asuka vs. Syuri, Dash, Alexis and Tam - Elimination tag team match
T-Hawk vs. Kushida - NXT Junior Heavyweight Championship
Daisuke Sekimoto and Yuji Okabayashi vs. BXB Hulk and Yamato - NXT Japan Tag team championship
Kaito Kiyomiha vs. Kento Mihara
Meiko Satomura vs. Giulia
Shigehiro Irie vs. Boa

Shade · Apr 14, 2024

WWE UK
Episode #137 | 22/06/20
Zero Minus Ten
BT Sport Studio | London, England
Backstage Correspondents ~ Joanna Rose and Simon Miller
Commentary ~ John Gooden and Wade Barrett
Ring Announcer ~ Andy Shepherd

DARK MATCH: RILEY OSBOURNE AND ELIZA ROUX VS. BRADY AND IVY PHILLIPS

Before the show can begin fans would be treated to a pre show match featuring four prospective new talents for the WWE UK brand. In one corner you'd have the high flying Riley Osbourne and his partner Eliza Roux while opposing them would be the arrogant couple Brady and Ivy Phillips. This would be quite the back and forth tag team contest with Brady and Ivy working exceptionally well as a unit. However during a comeback Eliza Roux managed to take out Ivy Phillips with a spear which allowed Riley to hit a big tornado DDT on Brady before finishing the match with a shooting star press.

Winners: Riley Osbourne and Eliza Roux

Dear Life by Chasing Cadence plays to kick the night off. A video package plays to kick the event off and it highlights the key events from the previous week's show. This includes Anthony Ogogo announcing the title matches for both Jinny and Finn Balor before following up with the close to the last show as Xia Brookside beat Toni Storm in a loser leaves WWE clash to qualify for the rumble. The show then formally kicks off from inside the BT Sports Studio in London, England. The cameras then take us to the commentary table where John Gooden and Wade Barrett put over the night's event before sending us to ringside.

Cascada's everytime we touch plays as the lights in the building go out. With rave lighting shooting out from inside the center of the king to kick off this latest installment of the beer garden. Session Moth Martina is standing in the center of the ring with a can of beer in her hand as she begins her usual impromptu dance session. Session Moth continuing to feel the vibes heads out of the ring and begins twerking at ringside while sharing drinks with some of the fans in attendance. After trying to encourage the commentary team to join her in her dance break. Martina finds herself a willing partner in John Gooden, while once again Wade Barrett is resistant to joining the fun. With that Session Moth returns to the ring and takes her seat in one of the chairs before grabbing a microphone. After taking a moment to catch her breath, Martina officially welcomes fans to the latest edition of her Beer Garden! Calling her show the most must watch show on television since Balamory, Session Moth proceeds to introduce her first guest for the evening.. Spike Trivet!

The crowd boos as Spike Trivet walks out from the back and he is closely followed by his associate and ally Ridge Holland. Joining Session Moth Martina in the ring, Spike Trivet on being offered a drink is quick to request champagne but tragically all Martina has for him is Lambrini. Albeit with a look of disgust Spike takes a glass and after taking a swig he spits it out and then dumps the rest of the mat. Calling the drink swill, Spike Trivet takes a seat before he nods his head to Ridge Holland who stands in the corner of the ring. From here Martina begins to talk with Spike about the news last week that he would be challenging Finn Balor for the WWE UK Championship next week. Asking Spike how he feels having accepted Balor's open challenge, Spike Trivet smugly says like a true Vulture he watched and waited looking for a moment to strike.

From here Martina looks to talk with Trivet about his time in the brand so far. Trivet says that unlike many who wrestle for this promotion, he is not here to live out a dream or childish fantasy. Instead Spike Trivet is here to simply prove that he is better, saying that he was born with a silver spoon and that success has constantly been presented to him on a silver platter. Trivet calls his success a forgone conclusion as just like in society, the rich get richer and the successful are the ones who truly prosper. From here Martina asks him how he feels about the current WWE UK Champion Finn Balor. Trivet is actually quite complimentary at first of Balor, saying that he's done a great job of representing the brand on a small time level but that now it is time for the brand to be brought into an upper echelon by it's Sovereign Lord.

Just then much to Spike's shock, the WWE UK Champion Finn Balor walks out onto the ramp. Balor then walks down to the ring while Ridge Holland stands by the apron obstructing him from entering the ring. This is until Session Moth reveals that Balor is in fact her other guest for the evening. This doesn't seem to impress Trivet who looks at Martina in disgust. However despite this Trivet nods at Holland who stands by allowing the WWE UK Champion to enter the ring. After hugging Martina, Balor takes a microphone before he stands in the corner of the ring and stares at his challenger. Trivet is quick to quip that he best enjoy this moment with his title as in two weeks time Trivet will be sat here as champion and Finn won't.

In response to this Finn Balor counters that he has beaten everyone who has stood against him so far. Many of whom have said the exact same things that Spike Trivet did. The only difference between them and Spike Trivet is a world of hard earned skill and talent on their sides as opposed to the entitlement that Trivet has. Calling next week a lot more than a mere title defense, Finn Balor instead counters that their match is an education for Trivet. That education of course being that all the money in the world cannot save you from certain things. This includes a harsh reality that money can't buy talent or heart and next week Spike Trivet will learn that the hard way as Finn walks out the exact same way he walks in.. As champion. With that Balor holds the title in the air as a livid Spike leaves the ring with Ridge Holland in tow.

MATCH #1: EUROPEAN CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
GUNTHER W/ NIGEL MCGUINNESS VS. RAMPAGE BROWN

The opening contest of the evening would be a singles match for the WWE European Championship. This clash of the titans would see Gunther facing someone who matched him in size and hard hits, this of course being Rampage Brown. A hard hitting contest from the off, it finally seemed that Gunther had potentially met his match as Brown had no issue in exchanging some vicious strikes with Gunther. Brown would also be the first man yet to take Gunther off of his feet as a big back suplex put Gunther down for a near fall. Unfortunately for Brown, the turning point in this bout would be when a lariat attempt of his was ducked and Gunther instead fired back with a northern lariat. Brown fell in a heap but still managed to kick out before the count of three. However from that point it seemed that Brown was badly stunned from that blow and that Gunther wasn't going to ease up landing several more big lariats on Brown. Showing concern for Gunther as he rushes down to the ring is Brown's former tag team partner Ashton Smith. Seeing Brown hurt, Smith looked like he was contemplating throwing in the towel but Brown can be heard yelling at him to let him fight. Conflicted Smith holds off on throwing in the towel as Gunther follows with a series of hard mounted forearms to Brown, the last bounces Brown's head off the mat. Before referee Thomas Scarborough can check on Brown, Gunther drags him to his feet and drives him into the canvas with the Last Symphony before making the match winning cover.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match and still champion Gunther!

The crowd boos as Gunther stands tall in the ring and is presented his championship by Nigel McGuinness. While Gunther raises the title in the air, Ashton Smith enters the ring and starts to check on Brown while the official calls for medics.

~ DISRUPTION ~

Quickly the cameras cut to the backstage area and in this particular hall of the building there appears to be quite the commotion with a lot of people rushing onto the scene. With a lot of shouting from all directions, the camera manages to see a grounded Sadie Gibbs clutching her left knee. A livid Anthony Ogogo is on the scene yelling for medics to arrive. While medics begin to check on Sadie Gibbs, a livid Anthony Ogogo turns his attention to Jinny and the House of Couture. Warning Jinny that he will be in the medics office first checking on Sadie. Ogogo makes it clear to Jinny that he expects to see her and her house waiting in his office for him after as this is unacceptable.

~ COMMISERATIONS ~

Camera footage from earlier in the evening is then shown and it focuses on Tegan Nox arriving to the building. The former UK women's champion seems surprised when she is met by Hyan. With the pair having had a hard fought match last week, Hyan swiftly offers Tegan Nox a handshake saying that it should have been her who did this last week as she apologized for how she behaver after the match. Nox smiles as she says that she totally understands where she is coming from as Nox says that is the same frustration she feels for not being in the UK rumble despite her efforts. Before this pair can part ways it seems that Eliza Alexander has heard enough of this respectful showcase. Calling Nox a has been, Eliza looks at Hyan dismissively and brands her pathetic. Before Nox can respond Hyan buts in and says if Alexander wants to see who really is pathetic, then she will see her in the ring next week!

~ THE BLACK SWAN ~

Cara Noir is coming!

MATCH #2: TAG TEAM MATCH
THE WORK HORSEMEN (ASHER HALE AND JD DRAKE) VS. BRIXIA BONE BREAKERS (MIRKO MORI AND NICO INVERADI)

Tag Team action is the next port of call for the evening as The Work Horsemen battled the Brixia Bone Breakers. This would be a hard hitting match which shouldn't be a surprise based on the talents involved. While Asher Hale and Nico Inveradi were more willing to mix up flash strikes and some technical wrestling, we'd see JD Drake and Mirko Mori make more of a brawl when they were in the ring together. As the bout wore on we'd see size become a factor with Hale knocking Inveradi off the apron allowing Drake to plan Mori with a drill bit for the victory.

Andy Shepherd: And the winners of the match The Work Horsemen!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and JD Drake rises to his feet in the ring. Drake is soon joined by Asher Hale and the pair have their arms raised in victory until the cameras cut away from ringside.

~ WELFARE ~

Following the match, the cameras take us backstage to the trainer's room. In the room we see Sadie Gibbs laying on a bench while she is being attended to by medical personnel. Also present in the room is the Guvnor of WWE UK Anthony Ogogo. Ogogo watches on with concern as the medics believe that because of the assault which Sadie Gibbs has suffered she may have sustained at the very least a tear of her meniscus. Thinking of his athlete's safety Ogogo says he is about to call it on Sadie's match tonight. Gibbs however is defiant as she says that she is not here to back down from anyone. Saying this could be her one and only shot at the women's title, Sadie Gibbs pleads with Ogogo to let her go out there and give it her all. Albeit with reluctance, Anthony Ogogo nods his head in agreement and agrees to keep the match as it is.

~ STEP OFF ~

More footage from earlier in the evening is then shown this time from the locker room area as we see Angelico making his arrival to the the locker room. On arrival however Angelico is approached by a livid Nathan Cruz. The reason for this heated confrontation of course is Nathan knowing that Angelico spoke to his girlfriend Katherine Darcy the week previous. Calling her a grown woman who can make her own decisions, Angelico says he notices she isn't even with Nathan this week. This remark puts Cruz on the defensive as he comments that she had an appointment which is why she's not here. With that Cruz loudly yells that Angelico needs to stay away before he storms out the locker room.

~ PREVIEW ~

Ahead of our third match of the evening, we are played a pre taped interview in which Joanna Rose is joined by William Regal. Not here in any form of a managerial capacity, instead William is here to talk about a particular match tonight which will feature the WWE UK debut of his son Charlie Dempsey as he takes on one of William Regal's proteges and students Kassius Ohno. Calling both men true throwbacks to what European wrestling once was, William Regal says that he is here tonight not just as a father and a mentor but also as a fan of what European Wrestling once was. Calling tonight the evolution of the sport he once had to fight the general public on a beach to get into, William Regal says that he fully expects both men to make him proud with tonight's contest.

MATCH #3: SINGLES MATCH
GABRIEL KIDD W/ DOUG WILLIAMS VS. BRYAN KEITH

The third bout of the evening was a singles match as Gabriel Kidd took on "The Bounty Hunter" Byran Keith. With his mentor Doug Williams at ringside, Gabriel Kidd entered in a strong showing here against the Texan. In a match which mixed technical wrestling and strong style levels of striking. It seemed that it would take a lot for one man to put the other down. This was very much shown to be the case when Keith countered a Chaos Theory attempt and sent Kidd shoulder first into the ring apron before landing a Diamond Dust on his opponent. With Kidd stunned, Keith then followed up with an emerald tiger driver for the win.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Bryan Keith!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and Bryan Keith has his arm raised in the ring by the official. While Keith starts to celebrate his win Doug Williams helps his protege to his feet. Keith approaches Gabriel and offers him a handshake but shockingly an angered Kidd instead shoves him away. Williams very much acts as a mediator and cool head on what is becoming a heated situation. Having calmed things down, both Keith and Gabriel then shake hands.

~ CALL OUT ~

The cameras then direct us to the hallway of the arena where Simon Miller is joined by Eddie Dennis. Miller is quick to ask Eddie Dennis if he has had any luck as of yet finding a new client as per his conversation with Anthony Ogogo. Dennis says that he hasn't as of yet but he is still looking for the right man for the job. It is then that Simon Miller reveals in some exclusive news that if Eddie Dennis hasn't found a representative by next week, then Eddie Dennis will be stepping into the ring himself to take on Shigehiro Irie one on one!

~ MY VOW ~

Pacing back and forth in the locker room, Pete Dunne is uncharacteristically quite animated as he paces back and forth. Saying that in a few weeks time it is the WWE UK Rumble and he has to weigh up exactly what he is looking to accomplish. Pete Dunne is quick to remind the world that he never received his rematch for the title he brought to prosperity. At the same time however Dunne has to deal with the personal reasons going into the bout as well with his former allies. Admitting that he'd love to say the title is his sole focus at the moment, Dunne admits that he will get his belt back but before then his goal

MATCH #4: SINGLES MATCH
CARLOS ROMO W/A-KID AND MARIAH MAY VS. CLEMENT PETIOT W/AMALE AND LUDWIG KAISER

A heated grudge match was then our next venture in the ring as Carlos Romo took on Clement Petiot. With both men being primarily tag team competitors it made a change seeing them compete in singles action. This bout was very much a clash of styles as Romo looked to fly across the ring while Petiot looked to use his size and technique to ground Carlos Romo and trap him in a variety of holds. One story of note during this bout was Ludwig Kaiser seemingly looking to make conversation and be civil with A-Kid at ringside. This appeared to throw off both teams when all of a sudden Amale landed a hard forearm on Mariah May. This led to scuffle between the two women which both Kaiser and A-Kid sought to split up. This chaos and disorder would allow Petiot in the ring to land a superkick on Romo before following up with a bridging fisherman suplex for the win.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Clement Petiot!

The crowd boos as the announcement is made and Clement Petiot climbs to his feet. Clement is soon joined in the ring by Amale who raises his arm in the air. While Amale does this and Mariah May tends to Carlos Romo, we see Ludwig Kaiser offer A-Kid a handshake. A-Kid is hesitant to do so and Kaiser in response nods his head before rolling in the ring and celebrating with his team mates.

~ I KNOW ~

A pre taped promo then plays focusing on Kay Lee Ray. Filmed from an undisclosed location, Kay Lee Ray says she requested this time today to address her recent issues with the Kingdom of Wonderland. Saying that she knows a cult when she sees one, Kay Lee Ray says that she looks at Isla Dawn and she sees someone who isn't here to lead a kingdom. Claiming to see through the mask Isla Dawn wears and the guise she is hiding behind. Kay Lee Ray says that she knows Isla is using people and looking for something. Saying that she wants to stop Wonderland and Isla, Kay Lee Ray challenges Isla to a match next week!

~ DECLARATIONS ~

As he leaves the trainer's office and begins to head to his office. It is clear that the Guvnor Anthony Ogogo is in a very bad mood. Walking through the halls and on his way to his office, Ogogo is surprised to be met by Maria Kanellis. The self proclaimed queen of WWE UK, Maria says that she is here to meet with Anthony about her husband and the throne's placement in the UK Rumble. Shaking his head, Ogogo says that there entrance in the Rumble purely depends on if the Throne will cease their attacks and insubordination. With a smile Maria tells Ogogo that the Throne has already taken those steps and the guilty party in their ranks has been dealt with. From there Maria passes Ogogo who then continues to head to his office.

~ RETRIBUTION ~

A replay of their match from two weeks ago is shown before clips of two separate interviews are played. As both Nathan Frazier and Kid Lykos separately sit down with Simon Miller and Joanna Rose respectively. These two UK Performance Center standouts are first asked about their thrilling first contest which of course wound up as a time limit draw. Both men despite their bad blood are respectful to one another as they acknowledged one another's skills. Yet when talk turned to the post match antics of Lykos that is where things went a little sour. While Frazier may have called their first match a great debut clash, he called Lykos' post match actions pathetic. In response Lykos said he isn't here to make friends and calls the draw a fluke occurrence. The interview then closes with both men promising to be victorious.

MATCH #5: SINGLES MATCH
CHARLIE DEMPSEY VS. KASSIUS OHNO

The following contest which had been listed by some as a special challenge match would see Kassius Ohno battle UK Performance Center standout Charlie Dempsey. With William Regal watching on from ringside, we'd see very much a traditional European style match. Mixing in some hard hitting striking with some catch wrestling, we'd see Charlie Dempsey show that he can more than hang in there with the Commonwealth Champion. We'd see a lot of similarities in both men's styles with Ohno and Dempsey honoring William Regal's old move set. This included Dempsey landing a knee trembler and Ohno picking up a near fall with a regalplex. In the end however Ohno would manage to counter an attempt at a regal cutter with a roll up to pick up the hard fought victory.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Kassius Ohno!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and Kassius Ohno climbs to his feet. While Kassius Ohno has his arm raised in victory, a disappointed Charlie Dempsey takes a knee. At ringside William Regal nods his head and begins to clap his hands together while Ohno approaches Dempsey and helps him to his feet before the pair shake hands.

~ ANNOUNCEMENTS ~

Seemingly taking the reigns while Anthony Ogogo handles business tonight, Simon Miller is standing backstage with some new updates for the WWE UK Rumble. Milley begins by saying that before he addresses the rumble, he has a little addition to a match tonight as Santana Garrett will be competing in the previously announced triple threat match tonight making it a fatal four way. From here Miller follows by confirming that Teoman and Cara Noir will be taking part in the WWE UK men's rumble while Isla Dawn will be included in the women's. Before Miller can continue he is confronted by Zack Gibson, Gibson demands to be in the WWE UK Rumble also. Miller nods his head and says Zack never let him finish as Ogogo did also confirm that Gibson would be in the UK Rumble also!

~ THE RIPPER ~

Blair Davenport is in UK Rumble!

MATCH #6: FATAL FOUR WAY
ALEX GRACIA VS. AQA VS. RACHEL ELLERING VS. SANTANA GARRETT

Fatal four way action was the next port of call for the evening between four women all set to compete in the UK Rumble. This clash of styles would very much see a spirited effort from all four women involved. All of whom would have their respective standout moments including Rachel Ellering being able to showcase her power, AQA displaying some impressive high flying maneuvers, the athleticism and veteran Savvy of Santana Garrett and of course the win at all costs motivations of Alex Gracia. As this match waged on we'd see a suplex attempted by Rachel Ellering put herself and AQA out on the ring apron. AQA would manage to shove Ellering back first into the ring post but was soon pulled into the ring with a draping DDT by Gracia. As Gracia would make the cover however she'd be hit with a moonsault from Santana Garrett. This allowed Garrett to follow with a cover on Gracia to pick up the victory!

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Santana Garrett!

The crowd cheers as Santana Garrett climbs to her feet in the ring. Emotional at having picked up her first victory with the WWE UK Brand. While Garrett celebrates we see all the other women in the match begin to express their disappointment at ringside.

~ MEETING ~

Having cooled enough following the events of the day, Anthony Ogogo heads to his office where he finds Jinny and the House of Couture waiting for him. Jinny quickly goes to complain about how long she has been waiting but Ogogo cuts her off swiftly reminding her that this isn't Wade Barrettt or Katarina Leigh's WWE UK. It is his and he will not have anyone think how she and her house conducted themselves tonight acceptable. Which is why Ogogo has decided that for Jinny's match tonight Nina and Lana are banned from ringside. Should they overrule him and go out there not only will they forfeit their spots in the rumble but he will personally see to it they forfeit their employment!

~ IN MOD WE TRUST ~

Right ahead of the main event of the evening, the cameras take us to the parking lot where "Flash" Morgan Webster is standing by. The fired up Webster during this promo makes it clear that he is sick and tired of the Throne acting like they run this place. Saying that he has been here from the very beginning, Morgan Webster states that he's seen Ilja Dragunov, Mark Andrews and Adam Brooks already saying this but he is also out for revenge and her to make sure that the Throne and so called reign of King Kanellis crumbles once and for all!

MAIN EVENT: WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP
JINNY VS. SADIE GIBBS

It was then time for the main event of the evening as Jinny defended her championship against the unbeaten super prospect Sadie Gibbs. Having been jumped earlier in the night by the house of couture. Sadie's compromised knee very much had a target on it for the Fashionista. Showing off her aggression, Jinny seemed to want to ground Sadie and work her over as best she can. Through this bout we'd see Jinny try and keep Sadie down but the explosive, super prospect proved hard to keep down as she'd manage at points to throw Jinny off her and even connect at one stage with a big enzugiri kick. As the bout waged on Gibbs began to love more up to her moniker and picked up a close near fall following a spear on her opponent. Sadly a turning point in the bout was when Gibbs went for one of her trademark press slams only for her knee to buckle. This allowed Jinny to drop behind before she followed with a chop block on Sadie. Gibbs would drop to a knee and this allowed Jinny to drive her into the canvas with a facelift before following with the Touch of Couture for the victory!

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match and still champion Jinny!

The crowd boos as the announcement is made and Jinny rises to her feet. Once passed her title by the referee, Jinny raises her title in the air while she's joined in the ring by Nina Samuels and Lana Austin. Under Jinny's command the pair of Nina Samuels and Lana Austin begin to put the boots to Sadie Gibbs. From here the pair drag the injured Sadie to her feet and hold her in position for Jinny to blast her with the women's championship. With that the show comes to a close with Jinny standing tall over Sadie Gibbs.

Shade · Apr 15, 2024

WWE UK NEWS

release confirmed

Following this latest edition of WWE UK's weekly show, we know that a surprising departure has been confirmed from the brand. This departure will be of UK Heavyweight Rampage Brown. It is said that this departure was down to Brown's contract merely expiring and a deal sadly being unable to be reached at this particular time. WWE management is said to be quite impressed with the bruising style of Brown and some say that Brown is looked upon as someone who will eventually be offered a coaching role with the UK performance center. With the door very much open for a future return, Brown is wished well in his future endeavors.

Prospect returns to UK Performance Center

There was a lot of talk at the end of this past show about the status of Sadie Gibbs with WWE UK. The so called Super Prospect was once seen as a future headline star for the brand and someone who was to be the face of it's programing. Lately however Gibbs' momentum had notably stalled with her appearances on the brand waning. It is said that unfortunately this was down to both some physical and personal issues on Gibbs' part. Which is why this match with Jinny for now has been used to wrap up Sadie's time on the WWE UK TV show. It has been noted though that Gibbs by no means will be departing from the promotion and instead will be returning to the WWE UK performance center. This will allow Gibbs to not only heal up physically but also allow her the chance to reevaluate her wrestling career.

UK Performance center standouts earning rave reviews

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With the WWE UK Rumbles allowing talents from the performance center opportunities to compete not just in the match itself but also on the weekly shows. This has allowed many eyes to observe and review these prospective talents. One name who has so far earned rave reviews for his appearances thus far is Nathan Frazier. The talented high flyer who is a protege of Seth Rollins, Frazier is seen as someone who may have expedited his call up based on his showings so far. Women's standout Eliza Alexander is in the same boat, seen by many as a solid, mid card heel. Alexander is seen as someone who truly understands her character and some even note that there was talks of aligning her with Jinny and the House of Couture. Another name who has made a strong impression is Kid Lykos, this of course isn't Lykos' first WWE UK run but it is his first go as a single talent. In a similar fashion to Alexander, Lykos is seen as someone who could make for a solid mid card heel. The final name mentioned is Charlie Dempsey, Dempsey of course is the son of William Regal and is very much described as a different kind of athlete in the UK performance center. With his match and showing with Kassius Ohno receiving rave reviews, Dempsey while listed as a little too soon for a full time call up at this moment is perceived as a star for the future.

NXT sends top prospect to NXT UK

In some surprising but very exciting news, a new addition to the WWE UK performance center has been announced today. Set to cross the pond from NXT to continue his development, we know that "The Judge" Ezra Miller will soon be heading to the UK Performance Center. Miller is seen as a top prospect by many in the WWE system thanks to his size, charisma and in ring improvements. Some say that WWE UK is being looked at as a chance to further hone Miller's in ring schools with WWE perhaps looking to use these international NXT's as a territory system as such to act as a finishing school for it's talents.

UK RUMBLE UPDATES

Men's Rumble	Women's Rumble
1. Angelico	1. Raquel Lourenco
2. Michael Oku	2. Aleah James
3. Suge D	3. Kanji
4. Nathan Frazier	4. Candy Floss
5. Ludwig Kaiser	5. Laura Di Matteo
6. Clement Petiot	6. Hyan
7. Tyler Bate	7. Eliza Alexander
8. Trent Seven	8. Santana Garrett
9. A-Kid	9. Amale
10. Carlos Romo	10. Mariah May
11. Asher Hale	11. Nina Samuels
12. JD Drake	12. Lana Austin
13. Kid Lykos	13. Millie McKenzie
14. Gabriel Kidd	14. Amber Nova
15. Pete Dunne	15. Alex Gracia
16. Shigehiro Irie	16. Xia Brookside
17. Bryan Keith	17. AQA
18. Charlie Dempsey	18. Rachel Ellering
19. Mark Davis	19. Indi Hartwell
20. Kyle Fletcher	20. Persia Pirotta
21. Ridge Holland	21. Stevie Turner
22. Man Like Dereiss	22. Jessi Kamea
23. Ashton Smith	23. Natalia Markova
24. Cara Noir	24. Katherine Darcy
25. Teoman	25. Isla Dawn
26. Zack Gibson	26. Blair Davenport

Shade · Apr 18, 2024

WWE UK BRAND SHOW PREVIEW

WWE UK CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
Finn Balor (c) vs. Spike Trivet

The main event of this coming show will be a WWE UK Championship clash as Finn Balor defends his championship against "The Vulture" Spike Trivet. With Anthony Ogogo mandating that all champions would need to defend their titles, Finn Balor as the WWE UK Champion was the final champion to be called forward to do so. Balor in turn would elect to issue an open challenge to the locker room. This would be accepted by Spike Trivet much to the horror of the crowd in attendance. The ever unpopular Trivet of course has steadily risen the card with victories in the past over the likes of EC3, Kassius Ohno and others. Will we see a new champion crowned?

NO HOLDS BARRED
Kay Lee Ray vs. Isla Dawn

A no holds barred clash has also been confirmed for this coming week's show as Kay Lee Ray battles Isla Dawn. This bout has steadily built with a seeming case of bad blood emerging between the pair after Kay Lee Ray claimed to have seen through the veil of the Red Queen. Dawn of course is the leader of her own kingdom or cult depending on who you ask and lately we have seen a more ruthless side by Dawn as she has authorized the excommunication of Joseph Conners and Jurn Simmons from her sect. With Kay Lee Ray claiming to see through Isla Dawn's guise and knowing that she's after something. Will we be given a reveal this week?

REMATCH
Kid Lykos vs. Nathan Frazier

Two WWE UK performance center standouts will also do battle in a highly anticipated rematch as Kid Lykos and Nathan Frazier face off. The pair memorably collided a few weeks ago in an action packed, thriller. That match was a highly entertaining and exciting clash which culminated sadly with a time limit draw much to the disappointment of the audience and competitors. Despite an allocation of extra time being given the match sadly would remain without a winner thanks to the time limit exceeding. This bout would lead to bad blood building between the pair and this rematch finally happening one week before the men's rumble!

GRUDGE MATCH
Eliza Alexander vs. Hyan

A grudge match will also feature this week between Hyan and a WWE UK performance center standout Eliza Alexander. Despite entering some solid and spirited efforts, Hyan has yet to be victorious as a roster member with the WWE UK Brand. This is something which Eliza Alexander mocked this past week on the latest show directly to Hyan's face. In turn Hyan has challenged Eliza Alexander to a match this week in the hopes to turn her fortunes around while also silencing Eliza Alexander once and for all. Will Hyan pick up her first victory?

HIGH STAKES MATCH
Aaron Henare w/Eddie Dennis vs. Shigehiro Irie

A special match has also been confirmed this week as Shigehiro Irie will be in action. His opponent however will be a representative selected by Eddie Dennis. Dennis of course has his back against the wall currently in WWE UK as he has been ordered to find himself a client to manage or he will be forced to depart the brand. One person who seemingly caught Dennis' eye is NXT Japan's Shigehiro Irie only for Irie to refuse his offer. In a rage Dennis has demanded this match and employed a mercenary known as Aaron Henare who has come to the brand for one night with the purposes of defeating Irie and forcing him to be by Dennis' side which is the added stipulation to this bout. Will Irie be forced to become Eddie Dennis' client?

ALL STAR SHOWCASE
Xia Brookside, Kanji, Candy Floss, Santana Garrett, Laura Di Matteo and AQA vs. Nina Samuels, Lana Austin, Millie McKenzie, Alex Gracia, Persia Pirotta and Indi Hartwell

A women's tag team match will also feature on this week's card as twelve women set to compete in the WWE UK Women's rumble will do battle in a twelve women's tag team match. This bout will see the ever popular Xia Brookside and her friend Candy Floss unite with the submission specialist Laura Di Matteo, rising prospect Kanji, veteran Santana Garrett and RoW high flyer AQA to take on the House of Couture's Nina Samuels and Lana Austin, British Strong Style's bruiser Millie McKenzie, the vain pair of Australia's Hottest Commodities and fellow ROW standout Alex Gracia. Will these teams be able to coexist in this big match?

Shade · Apr 29, 2024

NXT MEXICO: THE STORY SO FAR

With the WWE looking to further branch out into markets across the globe. It was totally understandable that following the success of NXT and the rise of WWE UK that they would begin to make leeway into establishing developmental programs and fledgling shows. It was only a matter of time really before WWE took a punt at establishing themselves in two of the largest wrestling markets namely Japan and Mexico. This expansion very much would be an aggressive approach with WWE's expansion between the two beginning around the same time. In a similar approach to what they did with Japan, WWE began using some connections and it's more established hispanic names to do so. The most notable of which of course would be the legendary Rey Mysterio. On top of this WWE would use The Bella Twins and Tito Santana as brand ambassadors and began to use the likes of Andrade, Angel Garza, Lucha House Party and Rey Mysterio as potential bargaining chips in order to do so.

Looking to bolster the roster early on we'd know that Lucha House Party, Angel Garza and Humberto Carillo would all be stationed as part of the roster along with the recently signed El Hijo Del Phantasma who had been repackaged on NXT as Santos Escobar. On top of this NXT prospects Taynara Conti, Arturo Ruas and Cezar Bononi as well as the recently signed Dominik Mysterio would also be added to the roster in the hopes of furthering their development. The NXT Mexico Performance Center would then quickly be established with legend and future hall of famer Ultimo Dragon (While Japanese, Dragon of course is a Lucha Pioneer who got his first big break in Mexico) being the lead of the performance center while employing the likes of Chavo Guerrerro, Konnan, Averno, B-Boy and Ricky Reyes among it's trainers. On top of this we knew that WWE would soon find a venue for it's weekly show which would take place at the Fronton Mexico. Of course even with such names and the WWE behind it things wouldn't exactly be smooth sailing at least at first.

This would very much be down to the established status quo in Mexico among it's wrestling promotions. With AAA very much not being an option for WWE thanks to their relationship with New Japan Pro wrestling as well as competitor AEW. It would seem that it took quite a lot for a deal or alliance to be formed between WWE and CMLL, this down in part to some previous bad blood between the promotions. On top of this it would be thanks to veteran Rey Mysterio that the WWE made connections with Toryumon and Crash Lucha. It would be through this that the WWE was to amass a roster filled with both talented Lucha Libre veterans and also rising young stars and prospects as it looked to develop the next wave of Lucha Talent. Although it did have to be noted that unlike the transition in Japan which was seen as very routine and business like, the Mexican expansion was met with a lot of detraction and resistance.

Roster
Luis Fernandes Gil - General Manager
Angela Fong - Ring Announcer
Karlee Perez - Valet of Mil Muertes
Hugo Savavonovich - Play by Play
Carlos Cabrera - Commentator
Marcelo Rodriguez - Commentator
Salina De La Renta - Valet
Shaul Guerrero - Valet
Dasha Fuentes - Backstage Interviewer

Aero Star
Alejandro Saenz
Amazing Red
Angel Fashion
Angel Del Oro
Angel Garza
Arez
Argenis
Arturo Ruas
Averno - Also acting as head trainer for NXT Mexico's performance center
Bandido Jr
Barbaro Cavernario
Bestia 666
Black Taurus
Carlito
Cezar Bononi
Cruz Del Toro
Daga
Dominick Mysterio
Drago
Dragon Lee
El Hijo de Dr Wagner Jr
El Hijo del Vikingo
Epico
Flamita
Gran Metalik
Humberto Carillo
Joaquin Wilde
Kalisto
Komander
Laredo Kid
Lince Dorado
Mil Muertes
Pagano
Primo
Puma King
Rey Horus
Santos Escobar
Texano Jr

Catalina Garcia
Chik Tormenta
Elektra Lopez
Lady Shani
Ivelisse Velez
La Hiedra
Lady Flamer
Lady Maravilla
Lady Shani
Mercedes Martinez
Princesca Sugehit
Priscila Zuniga
Marti Belle
Reina Dorada
Silueta
Star Fire
Stephanie Vaquer
Taynara Conti
Thunder Rosa
Valentina Feroz
Vanilla Vargas
Yulisa Leon
Zeuxis

To compare the landscape of NXT Mexico and NXT Japan would very much be like telling the difference of night and day. While NXT Japan very much focused heavily on the ring work and matches with very little in the way of backstage segments or angles. While NXT Mexico would of course include a lot of in ring work, it was also quite segment heavy in it's story telling. It wasn't also afraid to go a little more bold or cinematic in some ways with the story it was telling. This was definitely seen in regards to it's selection of an authority figure for NXT Mexico. Unlike WWE UK who has used the likes of Wade Barrett, Katarina Leigh and William Regal in authority roles while of course NXT in the past has used the likes of Regal and JBL while NXT Japan is using Tatsunami Fujinami. In the case of NXT Mexico, it's authority figure wasn't a former wrestler but rather a former wrestling personality introduced as Luis Fernandes Gil. Unlike Mr. Fujinami who was shown to be an unbiased figure, when it come to Luis Fernandes Gil there was a lot more than would originally meet the eye.

In early segments Gil would come off as a mere businessman looking to provide the world with what was in his eyes the best programming in Lucha Libre. Yet soon it become apparent that Gil was to an extent a maddened emperor or a ruthless dictator. Seeking to profit from NXT Mexico as best he can for him and those above him, Gil's corruption would very much spread across the roster. Showing a complete biased side to those who suit his needs and fit his vision while at the same time issuing the full weight of his wrath on those who dare oppose him. One of those blessed to have Gil's full support would be a fellow businessman and wrestler Santos Escobar with the pair teased to have a background with one another before NXT Mexico. Along with Escobar and Escobar's associates some other names who seemed primed for Gil's preferred treatment included his hired guns Los Mercenarios, Veteran Averno and Mercedes Martinez. One other person who it seemed that Gil would give this treatment to would be Karlee Perez and her partner Mil Muertes, seemingly the one person who intimidated and worried Gil. Karlee's witch craft and scare tactics very much meant that Gil at times would be at her mercy.

While these talents however would be on the right side of Luis Fernandes Gil and his visions for what was best for the brand. There of course would be others who were unfortunately not as blessed. These would be people that Gil perhaps had taken an immediate disliking to or were opposing those he had chosen to. In some cases however and this would slowly arise over a period of time, there would be those who perhaps refused Gil's offer to unite with him or those who just defiantly took a stand against what they had deemed corrupt, dictatorial behavior. Some of the names shown to be opposing Gil would include Aero Star, Drago, Ivelisse Velez and Argenis among others. The most noted opponent of Gil however was rising Luchador Laredo Kid. Laredo Kid had been an early recruitment effort for Gil but had refuted his offer of friendship. In turn this made him public enemy number one for the corrupt general manager. However one thing hasn't changed and that is Gil's need for violence to appease those above him. This is why the first NXT Mexico special Paso De La Muerte which will be an event with every match contested inside a steel cage.

One clear difference set out from the off by NXT Mexico and it's ruling under Luis Fernandes Gil, is that unlike NXT, WWE UK and NXT Japan which all held tournaments or other match types to crown champions. NXT Mexico would have it's champion presented and crowned from the off as Luis Fernandes Gil named Santos Escobar the NXT Mexican Heavyweight Champion. Calling Escobar a generational talent and someone who is rightly the face of the brand, Luis seemed to have a lot of admiration for the champion who would always be accompanied by his associates Cruz Del Toro, Joaquin Wilde and Elektra Lopez. Very much playing a wealthy, businessman or mobster like persona Escobar was quickly established as the brand's top heel who very much had the general manager in his back pocket thanks to their business negotiations. For his first defense Escobar would defeat rookie Dominik Mysterio albeit with some questionable tactics involved.

This would soon become a story of Santos Escobar's title reign in that while clearly Escobar was one of the brand's most talented competitors, he was also someone willing to break every rule and take every short cut in order to retain his championship. This included copious amounts of interference from his Legado Del Phantasma cohorts whch aided him in bouts against the likes of Pagano and Puma King. Along with techniques such as low blows, eye rakes and belt shots which he has also utilized to firm effect. In the run up to Paso De La Muerte however, Escobar would seemingly find himself an opponent wise to many of his attempts at taking short cuts. As Santos would combat Angel Del Oro and in Angel Del Oro's victories over both Joaquin Wilde and Cruz Del Toro, Angel not only managed to counter this cheating but showed he'd willingly take some short cuts of his own to level the playing field. This included Angel blasting Escobar with a title belt shot at their press conference to knock out the champion before signing the contract over the downed Escobar.

While the NXT Mexican Heavyweight championship may have been handed and presented to Santos Escobar. The NXT Mexican Cruiserweight Championship would be contested for in a wild eight person ladder match which included Alejandro Saenz, Bandido Jr, Rey Horus, Bestia 666, Arez, Komander, Flamita and Barbaro Cavernario. This would be an action packed contest which culminated with Bandido Jr grabbing the title to be named the first ever NXT Mexican Cruiserweight Champion. Unlike many wrestlers on the roster who seemed to very much pick a side of the Gil administration, we'd find in Bandido there was the true epitome of a lone wolf. Seemingly content to go solo and with his mindset of just coming in to do business, Bandido would quickly become one of NXT Mexico's most must watch talents. This was quickly established following a title defense against Kalisto.

Following this defense Bandido would find himself battling a pair of feuding cousins Humberto Carillo and Angel Garza. At least that is how things looked at first when the duo's family drama began to intervene in Angel's upcoming challenge of Bandido's title. As we'd soon find however this was in fact a ruse and Carillo and Garza were actually on the same page in an attempt to set up Bandido. To his credit however the champion managed to overcome the odds and retain his title in what was an interference heavy clash. Unfortunately for Bandido any post match celebration would be cut short as he was blindsided by the veteran Averno. In a later interview Averno called the championship his for the taking but it wouldn't just be Averno who coveted the title as Bestia 666 would also stake a claim to the belt following a surprise victory over Barbaro Cavernario in a street fight. This would lead to Gil making the match between the three a three way dance steel cage match!

Similar to the Cruiserweight championship, there was no coronation for the NXT Mexican Women's Champion. Instead on a one match show there was a gauntlet match featuring many of Mexico's top female wrestlers while also including some surprise appearances by the likes of Taynara Conti as well as former WWE women's champion Melina. This match would be won by it's very first entrant Ivelisse Velez. The no nonsense, hard nosed brawler who refused to back down from anyone who'd stand against her, Ivelisse was quickly established as the women's divisions top babyface thanks to her never back down and never quit mentality. Unfortunately for Ivelisse she was very much on the hit list of Gil's having taken a stand against him and his corrupt regime. In retaliation of this Ivelisse would have the deck stacked against her in several defenses as she'd battle Elektra Lopez, Zeuxis and Prinsesca Sugheit on repeated occasions before her next challenger would emerge from the woodwork.

Deemed as a top signing for the women's division, Veteran Mercedes Martinez was very much positioned by Gil as the top contender from the off. Flanked by her associate Priscila Zuniga, Martinez was quickly established as a force with wins over the likes of Lady Shani and Catalina Garcia. This would lead to a confrontation between Martinez and Ivelisse in which a brawl quickly broke out between the pair and saw them going all over the building until an assist from Zuniga allowed Martinez to spinebuster Ivelisse through a table at catering. In retaliation of this, two weeks later a chair wielding Ivelisse would assault both Martinez and Zuniga. With both women seemingly wanted to hurt one another anyway they can, their upcoming title match at the Paso De La Muerte was confirmed to be a Steel Cage death match!

Honoring Mexican wrestling tradition, unlike the other territorial developmental systems there wouldn't be a standard tag team division with champions. At least not at first as instead NXT Mexico would feature a trios tag team championship. Like every other title introduced in the brand it seemed that the Gil Administration had it's chosen favorites in the group of Los Mercenarios which was the trio of Texano Jr, Black Taurus and Daga. Living very much up to their name, this trio had earned their special treatment by acting a a group of thugs very much for Gil. Which is why it was no surprise that Gil announced a tournament for the trios titles with the winners of the tournament facing off against Los Mercenarios to crown the champions. With a tournament favorite trio of the Colon family comprised of Primo, Epico and the returning Carlito making it to the finals before being shockingly upset by the makeshift trio of Aero Star, Argenis and Drago. It seemed the deck was stacked against the trio when their match with Los Mercenarios was set for right after. Yet in a stunning moment and further upset Aero Star managed to roll up Taurus to take the trios championships.

Sadly for the champions any celebration was cut short thanks to a vicious beating by the Mercenarios who quickly looked to capture what in their minds should have been theirs. As a rematch was quickly made however it seemed that Gil rather than being angry with his team had instead a newfound bout of confidence and this was shown when Drago shockingly betrayed his former partners and allowed the Mercenarios to pin Argenis. With Drago joining the Gil administration, we'd see Los Mercenarios reign supreme as champions until a shocking upset this past week when the trio issued an open challenge which was accepted by Kalisto, Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado aka Lucha House Party. During this match Kalisto would manage to shock Daga with a Salida Del Sol to capture the trios titles. A livid Gil would in response to this announce an immediate trios rematch inside a steel cage at the Paso De La Muerte.

Having refused an offer by Gil to join his administration or collective, there was a bounty to say the least on the head of Laredo Kid. With individuals such as Cezar Bononi and Arturo Ruas being two early individuals looking to cash in on this as well as a brief cameo by powerhouse heavyweight Shawn Hernandez. Laredo Kid to his credit would manage to overcome the odds time and time again. Unable to contain his anger and disgust at this fact and his utter despisement of Laredo Kid, Gil seemed to have gone from wanting to see Laredo Kid beaten to wishing to see him broken. In order to guarantee this happening, Gil would make a deal with the literal devil which of course would be the man known as Mil Muertes and his associate Karlee Perez.

Bringing a very occult like feel to NXT Mexico would be the monster known as Mil Muertes and his associate Karlee Perez wasn't a regular occurrence on television. Instead he'd make brief appearances destroying opponents while Perez appeared in segments teasing witch craft and supernatural abilities. During a conversation between Perez and Gil, it seemed that Gil for his part was aware of and intimidated by the story of Muertes but was willing to make a deal to suit them two. In exchange for terms not yet revealed on Perez's side, Muertes in turn would make Laredo Kid a sacrifice. With the terms of this agreement met, Gil would announce at the Paso De La Muerte Mil Muertes will take on Laredo Kid in a Steel Cage casket match.

While the women's title picture was dominated by the Ivelisse Velez and Mercedes Martinez clash. A recent press release unveiled a highly touted signing from the NWA promotion by the name of Thunder Rosa. With a big deal made of her signing Rosa would first make an appearance where she formally signed a contract with the brand in the ring and conducted a live interview with Dasha Fuentes. With this big signing and news it wasn't a surprise that there would be people looking to make their name off of Thunder Rosa. This included talented martial artist Taynara Conti who looked to pick up the biggest win of her career against Rosa. This would set up a match between the duo in which Thunder Rosa would pick up her first victory.

Unfortunately for Rosa as she picked up a couple more impressive victories, she'd find herself with a new foe coming out of the woodwork. This foe would be an old friend of Rosa's by the name of Marti Belle who beat down Thunder Rosa with a night stick. During an embittered promo the week which followed Marti Belle said that Rosa was ungrateful and if it wasn't for her she would never have become the so called highly rated signing she apparently is now. Promising to tear Rosa apart and claiming to know her weaknesses. Marti Belle would follow by challenging Thunder Rosa to a match at the upcoming Paso De La Muerte event which we'd later learn would officially be confirmed and accepted by a vengeful Rosa.

While a lot of the stories of the brand would focus around the corrupt nature of Luis Fernandes Gil and his behavior/antics affecting the brand. There would be some other stories and points of interest worth taking note in. The first of which would be the continued development of Dominik Mysterio. Showing up to NXT Mexico with a huge weight upon his shoulders as the son of the legendary Rey Mysterio, Dominik would very much be shown to struggle in the early going thanks to his lack of experience which has meant that Mysterio has been winless so far since his arrival. Yet thanks to his spirited efforts he has won over the fans and seemingly impressed one other person as Shaul Guerrero would start to appear at ringside for his matches.

Two other generational standouts would be El Hijo De Dr Wagner Jr and El Hijo De Vikingo. Both the sons of mexican wrestling legends and the latest in their dynasties. The duo would pick up some impressive victories in their respective divisions as Wagner Jr was a staple in the heavyweight picture while Vikingo was a standout in the cruiserweight picture. However with their rise it seemed they'd attract some attention of the pairing of Angel Garza and Humberto Carillo who were jealous that they with their bloodline weren't being recognized in the same light by the fans. Despite some tension based on their father's history, Wagner and Vikingo would begin to align and stand against the duo.

Speaking of tag team action a pair of developmental prospects signed by the WWE Yulisa Leon and Valentina Feroz would also start featuring in matches as a tag team. Unfortunately for the young pairing they would be winless despite some spirited performances. Yet in these efforts similar to Dominik, it would seem that the crowd would begin to rally behind this plucky baby face team. Unfortunately for the pair while they had impressed the fans they had run afoul of a veteran pairing of Princesca Sugheit and Zeuxis who believed that the rookie pair needed to pay their dues.

One point of note also following the trios title saga was the ongoing feud between Aero Star and Drago. Billed as former friends well before NXT Mexico, Drago's betrayal stung Aero Star big time and while Argenis was quick to seek retribution. Unfortunately it would be thanks to a mist spray by Drago that Argenis was beaten and then received a nasty series of chair strikes following. This would spur Aero Star into action and he'd bring with him a rage as he began pummeling Drago with punches until Drago fled the ring knowing that he'd brough the wrath of his former ally.

The last two parts of note were two more recent additions to the brand. The first of which was Salina De La Renta. The leader of De La Renta promociones, Salina was in a similar vain as Santos Escobar painted as a former acquaintance of Luis Fernandes Gil and could be seen at ringside observing matches as she scouted talent for her talent agency. The second name of note was that of exciting prospect Dragon Lee. Billed as a student of the Ultimo Dragon and someone looking to continue his legacy, Dragon Lee would have a series of vignettes highlighting his training before his upcoming arrival.

Shade · May 4, 2024

WWE UK
EPISODE #138 | 29/06/20
Forever and a Day
BT Sports Studio | London, England
Backstage Correspondents ~ Joanna Rose and Simon Miller
Commentary Team ~ John Gooden and Wade Barrett
Ring Announcer ~ Andy Shepherd

DARK MATCH: JOEL REDMAN VS. MIKE D VECCHIO

Opening the event tonight would be heavyweight singles action as powerhouse Mike D Vecchio took on the returning Joel Redman. This would be a hard hitting clash of two no nonsense competitors. While Mike may have had a slight edge in power, it was the experience of Redman which would play a bigger difference. Following some short back and forth action, Joel Reman would be the victor in this contest following a series of moves which was capped off with a samoan drop which Redman wasted little time in following up with a fisherman suplex on his winded opponent for the three.

Winner: Joel Redman

As always Dear Life by Chasing Cadence plays while the latest WWE UK show begins. Opening with a recap of the last show, heavy focus was given to the attack by the House of Couture on Sadie Gibbs and Jinny's successful defense against the Super Prospect. Also of note in the recap was Gunther's destructive victory over Rampage Brown and the confrontation between Finn Balor and Spike Trivet. With that this week's show would officially open from inside the BT Sport Studio in London, England. With a small but lively crowd in attendance, Both John Gooden and Wade Barrett would hype up tonight's show before sending us to the ring.

As one would come to expect Cascada's everytime we touch was the song which opened up the latest edition of Session Moth's Beer Garden. With flashing lights from her LED machine, Session Moth Martina would this time be holding not one but two cans of Brew Dog which she was drinking from as she began another dance party. Once again Martina thanks to her energy would get many in the crowd cheering on or dancing along with her as she left the ring and took the party to the floor. Going round the ringside area and dancing with many of the fans in attendance, Martina once again stopped by the announcer's table and managed once more to get Andy Shepherd dancing with her as well as John Gooden but once more she could not win over Wade Barrett. Returning to the ring in order to stock up on drinks having finished her previous two Martina would take a moment to collect herself before officially welcoming everyone to the latest edition of her beer garden.

With the crowd in attendance fully behind her and cheering her every word. Session Moth Martina proudly called her show the biggest source of drama since the latest episode of Eastenders. Saying that careers have been put at risk in exchange for being apart of this show and exciting moments have constantly been apart of what is much to her pleasant surprise become the train wreck you just can't turn away from. Taking her seat one one of the many benches stationed in the ring, Martina would select a blue WKD as her next drink before taking a hearty swig. It would be then Martina would in her own words get serious and put her interviewer face on as she started to welcome her special guests for the evening. Calling her guests a group who have run roughshod over WWE UK for months now, Martina officially introduced The Throne!

Much to the crowd's chagrin, the theme song for Mike Kanellis and his wife Maria would begin to play from the titantron. Slowly emerging from the back dressed in a white suit would be King Kanellis and he'd be joined by his queen who was wearing a red sequin ball gown. Closely following this pair would be a black tracksuit wearing Tony Nese who was not long followed by a shirt and jeans wearing Curtis Axel and his equally smart casually dressed Bo Dallas. There seemed to be some murmurs from the crowd about a missing member and it was quickly revealed on commentary that Drew Gulak had suffered a career threatening injury and had to return to the states for treatment on it. As the Throne entered the ring, Martina was quick to offer everyone a drink. While both Axel and Dallas would each settle on a beer, Tony Nese's request of a protein shake was quickly shot down. Kanellis and Maria meanwhile would insist on champagne but when Martina said she only had sparkling wine, the duo cut that conversation short.

Instead Maria seemingly took issue with the fact that Martina hadn't addressed the king properly. Looking confused Martina offered him a drink once more while Maria said that a true greeting would be to get up and curtsey. Looking confused by this request Martina would slowly get up while the crowd willed for her to stand up to Maria. Instead of curtseying however Martina would begin to twerk and grind until Maria demanded she stop. As Martina took a seat she took note of the fact that the Throne was missing a member, this question however was cut short by Maria who said that sometimes within kingdoms changes have to be made and that is especially the case when it comes to weak links. Saying that the Thone and it's knights aren't weak and that they all know the price of failure. Maria says that the Throne have lost nothing but have instead further gained confidence in their own strength without that weakness.

Turning her attention to the WWE UK rumble. Maria would proudly announce her husband Mike Kanellis as not only an entrant but the rightful winner. With that Mike Kanellis would begin to speak as he said that just like the King of the Ring, victory would be at hand for him when it came to the WWE UK rumble. As just like they have over the past few weeks the Throne would again remain on top. Calling Nese, Dallas and Axel worthy subjects who have long proven their support to the throne and their undying loyalty. Mike Kanellis says that he knows there is strength in numbers and that while the Throne hasn't lost anything they have certainly gained. As Mike Kanellis reached out to an old friend and in turn would like to introduce the world not only to his best friend but his most loyal and trusted knight "The Chaotic Idol" Matt Taven.

There are some stunned cheers from fans in the know as Matt Taven swaggers his way from out the back and walks down to the ring. Decked out in a Purple and Green suit, Matt Taven has a cocky smile on his face while on commentary the pair of John Gooden and Wade Barrett praise the competitor that Matt Taven is and explain how much of a strong addition this is to the Throne. Once in the ring Matt Taven snatches Mike Kanellis in a big hug before he does the same with Maria. After nodding his head to Axel, Nese and Dallas who all respond in kind. Matt Taven is then passed a microphone by Maria, Martina's attempt to offer Taven a drink is completely ignored as Taven instead turns to address the audience in attendance.

Calling himself a man well versed in being apart of Kingdoms. Matt Taven says there has been no bigger honor so far in his career than being brough in to WWE UK to act as a protector for his best friend Mike Kanellis' crown. Calling himself a true cut above all those pretenders who have sought to strike out and take a stand against the Throne. Matt Taven promises that nothing will change regarding Mike Kanellis' reign but what will change is the face at Mike Kanellis' side. Proudly calling himself a disruptor and someone who isn't here to fall by the wayside. Matt Taven is here to ensure that Mike Kanellis becomes the next WWE UK Champion. Which is why he is not here begging or pleading but is instead demanding that Anthony Ogogo comes out here and grants him a spot in the WWE UK Rumble.

Much to The Throne's shock and annoyance, Taven's demans are cut short by the arrival of Joe Hendry. Unlike his usual light hearted and jovial nature, Hendry is all business here as he stands atop the ramp. Angry at the fact that he is unable to compete as part of the WWE UK rumble as per the actions of the Throne. Joe Hendry says that he will be damned if he lets this royal masquerade continue any further. Revealing that he is still no longer cleared to compete due to injuries that he sustained from the Throne's assault on him. Joe Hendry says that even with the injuries he has suffered and the attacks he has endured, his mission has not changed and he will be the man to topple King Kanellis and destroy the Throne once and for all.

In response to this Matt Taven is smug as he says that Joe Hendry should count his lucky stars. As he was apart of business that the Throne conducted before he was apart of the team and had he conducted the attack on Hendry. This wouldn't be a case of Hendry not being cleared to compete for a few weeks but instead a case of Hendry being forced into a permanent retirement. Hendry is indignant of this and says that it must be tough to be a true veteran of the scene who in order to finally get a shot with the WWE was forced to become a chaperone. Admitting that he has made some mistakes in his handling of the Throne, Joe Hendry says that he has now truly learned his lesson and that while he can't be cleared to wrestle. No one can stop him coming to fight and having learned his lesson the hard way, Joe hasn't come alone.

Much to the delight of the crowd Ilja Dragunov walks out onto the stage and he joins Joe Hendry who shakes his friend's hand. Both Dragunov and Hendry begin to slowly walk down to the ring while Maria Kanellis and Mike Kanellis bark at the Throne to handle them. With Matt Taven standing back the trio of Dallas, Axel and Nese begin to leave the ring. As they do so however we see from the floor Mark Andrews, Morgan Webster and Adam Brooks all hop the guard rail. While Morgan Webster and Tony Nese immediately tear into one another as Webster double legs Nese and drives him over the adjacent rail and into the stands. Both Axel and Dallas charge at Andrews and Brooks and begin exchanging punches with them at ringside. With this brawl at ringside taking place both Dragunov and Hendry have a clear path to hit the ring.

Both Taven and Kanellis wave them on in the ring and we see Martina remain seated enjoying the show as Taven and Kanellis begin trading punches with both Dragunov and Hendry. A livid Maria begins to berate Martina for not calling security or getting control of things, in turn Martina just shrugs her shoulders and goes to take another drink only for Maria to slap the can from her hand. Standing up Martina would stare Maria down who continued to provoke her until Martina had enough and shook one of the sparkling wines before letting the bottle spray in Maria's face. With Maria bailing from the ring and a laughing Martina making an exit, we'd see from a camera cut Webster and Nese continuing to brawl in the stands while Axel and Dallas along with Andrews and Brooks had took their fight up the ramp and into the back. With the cameras alternating between the ring, the crowd and the backstage area it was hard to keep track of the chaos at some points.

Focusing in the ring we'd see Hendry and Dragunov start to get the better of Taven and Kanellis until Taven managed to shove Dragunov over one of Martina's tables allowing him to blindside Hendry. This afforded Kanellis and Taven a two on one advantage until Ilja Dragunov hurled a chair into the back of Kanellis and tackled Matt Taven. As a few members of security looked to get control of the fight in the ring, we'd see in the stands some officials were looking to stop Nese and Webster as the pair hit some production crates and electronic equipment. Using some wiring on the floor in an attempt to lash Webster. Nese was angered with Webster avoiding this and tackling Tony Nese over one of the crates with both hitting the concrete with a thud.

Backstage we'd see Bo Dallas and Adam Brooks brawling in the gorilla position while Andrews and Axel had taken their brawl to catering. Screaming loudly for everyone to stop would be a livid Anthony Ogogo who ordered some local wrestlers, officials and security to help in breaking up the matter. While the backstage brawl and fight in the crowd would quickly be stopped. The fight in the ring would take a lot more work. Rushing down to the ring to stop things personally, Anthony Ogogo had police corner all four competitors as he loudly barked to throw everyone out of the building. An angered Maria would complain that the Throne was innocent but Ogogo simply barked for her to be gone also as this latest Beer Garden came to an end.

~ CONSEQUENCES ~

Following this chaotic scene, the cameras direct us far across the building where Joanna Rose is standing by with Ashton Smith. One week away from the men's UK rumble, Ashton Smith looks to be all business tonight. However it seems that his focus at least for now is not on the rumble itself but instead on what transpired last week with Gunther and Rampage Brown. Calling Gunther's work so far in the WWE UK brand not a sign of professionalism or class. But instead the sign of a vicious bully who likes to hurt people. Promising that Gunther will get some comeuppance real soon, Ashton Smith says until that time he is focused on winning the WWE UK rumble.

MATCH #1: SINGLES MATCH
NATHAN FRAZIER VS. KID LYKOS

Opening the show was the long awaited rematch between Nathan Frazier and Kid Lykos. While their first bout was an athletic, high flying contest. This bout while still containing it's athletic, high flying moves would also be packed full of some brawling between the pair who had developed quite the rivalry. With both men pulling out all the stops to pick up the win it was no surprise this bout would conclude with the pair fighting on the top rope and Lykos attempting a top rope brainbuster. Frazier however would instead counter with a top rope poison rana before following up with a standing shooting star press for the victory!

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Nathan Frazier!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and Nathan Frazier rises to his feet. As Frazier has his arm raised in the air, replays begin to air focusing on some of the highlights of this contest.

~ SOLDIER OF FORTUNE ~

The cameras then cut to the locker room area where Eddie Dennis is standing by. In the background while Dennis addresses the camera is Aaron Henare. While the imposing and intimidating Henare warms up, Dennis talks about how tonight Shigehiro Irie will learn why it never pays to cross the Welsh Dragon. Calling Henare his consequence, Eddie Dennis says that once tonight is over Shigehiro Irie will learn what obedience is. Dennis' promo is soon cut off however when Aaron Henare cuts him off by snatching Dennis by the neck, saying he's heard enough chit chat. Aaron Henare reminds Dennis that they have a deal, he beats Irie down and he gets pair. He then warns Dennis not to cross him as he walks out of the locker room.

~ WRATH ~

Still angered from what has transpired tonight a livid Anthony Ogogo is pacing back and forth in the hallway when he is joined by Simon Miller. Miller is notably a little ware as he approaches Ogogo who stops and stares at him. Rather than an atypical interview with questions, this is more a venting session for Ogogo who cannot help but voice his displeasure at the brawl. Branding it unprofessional and unacceptable, Ogogo says that he is removing all those involved from play ahead of the UK rumble. Meaning that no one in that brawl will be apart of the UK Rumble and that all involved will in fact be unwelcome from the building as they are suspended!

MATCH #2: SINGLES MATCH
ELIZA ALEXANDER VS. HYAN

Women's action was the next port of call for the night as Eliza Alexander battled Hyan. This would be a physical clash with both women really tearing into one another with some vicious strikes. Through this bout we'd see Hyan in particular show a new found fire as she desperately looked to pick up her first victory as part of the WWE UK brand. Alexander meanwhile would be the perfect foil as she constantly berated Hyan and called her a loser. However it seemed that Alexander's taunting is what would come back to haunt her as Hyan managed to hoist up her opponent and plant her with a glam slam to pick up her first victory!

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Hyan!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and Hyan pulls herself to her feet. Overwhelmed with emotion having broken her losing streak with this win, Hyan bursts into tears while the crowd applaud her in appreciation of her efforts.

~ SORT YOURSELF OUT ~

Post show footage from last week is shown and it takes place from the parking lot of the arena where an argument is breaking out between A-Kid and Carlos Romo. With tempers flaring between the pair, Mariah May attempts to act as a peace keeper. During this heated argument, Carlos Romo shouts at A-Kid to get his head in the game and focus on the task at hand. Saying that teams work together and have one another's back, Carlos Romo states that he is sick and tired of having doubts about his partner. Calling the Foreign Legion enemies who are trying to get in their teams' heads. Carlos Romo says that it's up to A-Kid what he wants to do here, he can either sort himself out and they continue to succeed as they always have or team whitewolf is history!

~ TROUBLEMAKER ~

From here the cameras take us once more to the locker room area where Michael Oku and Angelico are in the middle of conversation. While this duo of course faced off during the European title tournament, it is clear that there is a lot of respect between the pair as Oku and Angelico both wish one another the best of luck ahead of next week's UK rumble match. Their conversation however is cut short by the arrival of Katherine Darcy, looking to speak with Angelico. Darcy isn't impressed as Angelico says she knows he told Cruz about them talking and is looking to cause trouble. Trouble which Angelico knows is more than she is worth. With that Angelico and Oku both walk away from the locker room.

MATCH #3: ALL STAR SHOWCASE
Xia Brookside, Kanji, Candy Floss, Santana Garrett, Laura Di Matteo and AQA vs. Nina Samuels, Lana Austin, Millie McKenzie, Alex Gracia, Persia Pirotta and Indi Hartwell

The next contest of the evening was a big twelve women's tag team match featuring a collective of women who will all be competing as part of the UK women's rumble in two weeks time. While Xia Brookside's team had a group all united by mutual respect, the team led by Millie McKenzie had an advantage in team work thanks to having two experienced tag teams in their ranks. As the match waged on we'd see a chaotic series of events in which every woman involved had landed one big move on one another until Santana Garrett was caught off guard with a big boot by Indi Hartwell which was enough for her team to pick up the win!

Andy Shepherd: And the winners of the match Alex Gracia, Indi Hartwell, Lana Austin, Millie McKenzie, Nina Samuels and Persia Pirotta!

The crowd boos as the announcement is made and Indi Hartwell climbs to her feet. Hartwell is joined in her celebration by Persia Pirotta while the rest of their team join them in the ring to celebrate this victory.

~ HELLO THERE ~

Camera footage from earlier in the evening is then played and it focuses on WWE UK tag team champions Aussie Open making their arrival to the building. The pair however are surprised to find both JD Drake and Asher Hale waiting for them. Shaking hands with Mark Davis and Kyle Fletcher. The work horsemen make it clear that they wanted to introduce themselves formally to Aussie Open before all the chaos of next week. Calling Aussie Open the standard bearers for tag team wrestling, Asher Hale and JD Drake pass by the champions as they say that they hope sometime soon they will get to see how they compare!

~ LAST IMPRESSION ~

Ahead of the next bout of the evening, the cameras then play footage of a training session between Doug Williams and Gabriel Kidd. During this session, Williams says that he cannot stress how Kidd cannot let his emotions cloud his judgement. Saying that last week Kidd very much proved that point in his loss against Keith as his temper got the best of him. With that Doug introduces Kidd's guest trainer for the night Kassius Ohno. The commonwealth champion says he has been quite impressed with Kidd so far and is thrilled to help his development. Turning to Doug as this segment starts to close, Ohno jokes that when Williams has recovered he'd also love another chance to step in the ring with him.

"THE SPECTACULAR" Charles Crowley will compete in the UK Rumble!

MATCH #4: NO HOLDS BARRED
Kay Lee Ray vs. Isla Dawn

The next bout of the evening was the No holds barred clash between Isla Dawn and Kay Lee Ray. This match was very much a heated and personal brawl with Dawn surprisingly opting to go this match alone without her subjects. In a bout which took place all throughout the ringside area and even in the crowd, we'd very much see Kay Lee Ray in her elements. Towards the end of the bout Kay Lee Ray had set a table up at ringside and had Isla prone on the ring apron. Unfortunately for Kay Lee, a distraction by Jayde allowed Isla Dawn to mist Kay Lee Ray before she followed up with the black magical ritual which Dawn used from the apron to put Ray through the table. With Ray down, Isla then made the match winning cover!

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Isla Dawn!

The crowd boos as the announcement is made and Isla Dawn climbs to her feet. With Jayde raising her arm at ringside, Isla Dawn then begins to head backstage as the referee tends to a motionless Kay Lee Ray.

~HAYTERADE~

Jamie Hayter will be in UK Rumble!

~ NICELY DONE ~

Having picked up her first victory as part of the WWE UK brand earlier this evening, Hyan is still beaming as she makes her way through the hall. Here Hyan is surprised to find herself met with a hug by Tegan Nox. Nox tells Hyan that she is proud of her for not quitting and calls this only the beginning of her story. In response Hyan says thank you to Nox as Tegan wishes her well for the rumble. Hyan comments that she is only sad that Nox will not be getting her chance in the rumble. Shaking her head, Tegan says that she is sad about it but isn't dwelling on it as she has her own plan in mind.

~ REVENANCE ~

Ahead of the next contest of the evening, the cameras focus on "The Fashionista" Jinny preparing to make her leave from the building. The UK women's champion seems to be in a good mood having seen her subjects victorious earlier tonight. However Jinny's mood soon changes when she comes face to face with Raquel Lourenco. Lourenco stares at Jinny intently as she tells her in two weeks time that she will be winning the UK women's rumble and after that there won't be a thing that Jinny can do to stop Raquel from coming for her!

MATCH #5: SINGLES MATCH
AARON HENARE W/EDDIE DENNIS VS. SHIGEHIRO IRIE

A high stakes heavyweight bout was the next port of call for the evening as Aaron Henare took on Shigehiro Irie. In this bout Irie's back was against the wall knowing that defeat would mean he would be forced to become a client of Eddie Dennis. This was a hard hitting hoss battle from the very off. In his first appearance with the WWE UK brand Henare was very impressive as he brought with him a lot of fire and intensity. Unfortunately for Henare this would be met in kind by Irie who managed to launch a big comeback after a near fall and picked up the victory after two Beast Bombers.

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match Shigehiro Irie!

The crowd cheers as the announcement is made and while Irie starts to celebrate his win in the ring, the cameras focus on a livid Eddie Dennis at ringside. Entering the ring Eddie Dennis berates a downed Henare and even kicks him once or twice. This is until he is spun around by Irie. Dennis attempts to talk his way out of a confrontation but as he backs up, he is spun around by an angered Henare who snatches him by the throat. From here Henare drives Dennis into the canvas with a Toa Bottom to a cheer from the crowd. With that Henare leaves the ring while Irie continues to celebrate

~ COMMISERATIONS ~

The cameras then take us to the women's locker room where a dejected quartet of Candy Floss, Xia Brookside, Laura Di Matteo and Kanji are all stationed. All disappointed with their loss this evening, these women cannot hide their disappointment from one another. In a show of solidarity however they all agree that this was just one match and in two weeks time they have a chance for redemption with each woman involved in the conversation pledging that they will all win the WWE UK women's rumble. With that they all wish one another the best of luck ahead of the rumble!

~ PROPOSALS ~

Making his way through the hall ahead of his employer's upcoming match, Ridge Holland is surprised to find Trent Seven waiting for him. Cutting right to the chase, Seven says that he heard Spike's offer last week for an alliance in the WWE UK rumble. Acknowledging that British Strong Style have a pest to deal with in the match. Seven says that he'd like Ridge to pass on a message to Spike, that British Strong Style for the UK Rumble accept his offer for an alliance. Holland smirks and nods his head in response before he walks past Seven and down the hall.

MAIN EVENT: WWE UK CHAMPIONSHIP MATCH
FINN BALOR (c) VS. SPIKE TRIVET W/RIDGE HOLLAND

Finally it was time for the main event of the evening as the WWE UK Championship was up for grabs with Finn Balor taking on Spike Trivet. Following some in ring introductions the match would get right underway and with the crowd fully behind the champion. The early goings of this contest were purely chain wrestling based and we'd see Balor easily out maneuver his opponent. A distraction by Holland however would allow Trivet back into the contest with a cheap shot much to the crowd's chagrin. Keeping up his offense, Trivet picked up a near fall before he stood over the champion and slapped him across the face. This would incur the wrath of the champion who launched a fiery comeback which sent Trivet out of the ring. A big suicide dive followed by Balor much to the crowd's delight. Once he was to his feet, Balor then surprisingly turned his attention to Ridge Holland and met him with a John Woo dropkick which put Holland back first into the barricade. With Holland wobbled Balor then spiked Ridge into the ground with a 1916.

Unfortunately for Balor as he got to his feet he'd be thrown into the ring post by Spike Trivet. Returning the match to the ring Trivet then tried to pick up the win with his feet on the ropes to no avail. Looking to dole out more damage to Balor, Trivet would attempt to hit a piledriver only for Finn to spin out and land a sling blade on Trivet. From here Balor was very much in control until Trivet countered a 1916 attempt by shoving Balor back into referee Thomas Scarborough. With the referee down, Spike would not only expose one of the turnbuckles but he'd also grab the WWE UK championship and bring it into the ring. In doing so however he'd be met with a john woo dropkick by Balor who then followed up a sling blade. A groggy Ridge Holland would then roll into the ring only for Balor to hit him with the championship. Having laid out Holland once more however Balor turned into an eye rake by Trivet. This was followed with a kick to the balls by Trivet who then followed this with a DDT onto the WWE UK Championship. The crowd in attendance would erupt into boos as Trivet made the cover for a near fall.

Expressing his anger at the result Trivet looked to follow up with a double underhook shoulder breaker. Balor however countered and shoved Spike off into the ropes. From here Balor met Spike with another sling blade. Stumbling to his feet Trivet was then met with the Prince's Throne by Balor who looked to wrap things up with the Prince's Throne. After landing the Prince's Throne Finn started to climb the turnbuckles while in the corner a still groggy Thomas Scarborough began to pull himself to his feet. Rolling out of the way at the last second Spike Trivet would avoid a coup de grace before shoving Finn chest first into the exposed turnbuckle. Seeing his moment with the referee just pulling himself to his feet, Trivet snatched a champagne bottle he'd bought down to the ring and swiftly smashed it over Balor's head much to the horror of the crowd. With the champion falling to the canvas in a heap, Spike Trivet then made a cover for the win!

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the match and the new WWE UK CHAMPION... SPIKE TRIVET!

The crowd erupts into boos as the announcement is made and we see cups and rubbish being tossed into the ring. With a smug smile on his face Spike Trivet would climb to his feet before being presented with his WWE UK Championship. As Spike has his arm raised in the air by the referee, a groggy Ridge Holland entered the ring and would begin putting the belt around Trivet's waist as the show came to a close!

Shade · May 4, 2024

WWE UK NEWS

Departure confirmed

It has been confirmed today that this latest edition of the WWE UK Brand will in fact feature the final appearance of Kay Lee Ray with WWE UK. The Scottish competitor is said to have won many in the WWE higher ups over thanks to her daredevil antics and character work. Set to be renamed Alba Fyre, it is expected that the former Kay Lee Ray will head to NXT for a run as a heel. She will of course join the likes of Piper Niven, Dakota Kai, Toni Storm and others who have recently moved on from WWE UK to continue to ply their WWE careers across the pond.

WWE MAIN ROSTER NAME REQUESTS WWE UK MOVE

While a lot of focus as of late has been given to wrestlers moving on from WWE UK and heading to Raw, Smackdown, NXT or one of the recent territorial NXT promotions. We know now that a talent competing on the main roster has personally asked to move from his position to WWE UK. This request isn't a rarity as many are said to have looked at the treatment the likes of Mike Kanellis, EC3, The Iconics and Shelton Benjamin have received in their short tenures which in many cases have rejuvenated their careers. Now we know that Zack Ryder has personally requested this move in the hopes that he can follow suit. Whether the former Intercontinental, United States and tag team champion will be allowed to do so remains to be confirmed.

TALENT DEPARTURE

On this latest episode of WWE UK it was stated on commentary during the Beer Garden Segment and also alluded to by Maria Kanellis that Drew Gulak had sustained an injury which had led to his departure from the Throne and WWE UK. While details remain scarce it is said that this injury was a cover story for Drew Gulak's official WWE departure. While details remain scarce on the matter at hand, it is said that Gulak's departure was down to a dispute between Gulak and management which got out of hand. Gulak based on this release is believed not to have a 90 day no compete clause and is free to pursue other ventures.

EXCITING FREE AGENT SIGNING

While a far from ideal situation which would see Drew Gulak depart the promotion and the Throne be down a member right at a key point in their story. To the credit of WWE management who have previously shown themselves adept in similar situations. WWE management have managed to not only find a work around but in the eyes of many they have found an upgrade to the story being told. With names such as Tucker, Riddick Moss, Buddy Murphy and Ariya Daivari originally considered as replacements. It was said to be thanks to a word put in by Mike and Maria Kanellis that WWE management reached out to and made a deal with Matt Taven to come in. The contract Taven has signed means that he is not expected to be apart of WWE UK long and with reports that the Throne storyline may soon be concluding. There is talk that this could lead to a main roster tag team run for Mike Kanellis and Matt Taven very soon. Reaction to Taven's first appearance with the brand was very much met with acclaim backstage with many of the talents being impressed with Taven's attitude and also his promo for his introduction.

UK RUMBLE UPDATES

Men's Rumble	Women's Rumble
1. Angelico	1. Raquel Lourenco
2. Michael Oku	2. Aleah James
3. Suge D	3. Kanji
4. Nathan Frazier	4. Candy Floss
5. Ludwig Kaiser	5. Laura Di Matteo
6. Clement Petiot	6. Hyan
7. Tyler Bate	7. Eliza Alexander
8. Trent Seven	8. Santana Garrett
9. A-Kid	9. Amale
10. Carlos Romo	10. Mariah May
11. Asher Hale	11. Nina Samuels
12. JD Drake	12. Lana Austin
13. Kid Lykos	13. Millie McKenzie
14. Gabriel Kidd	14. Amber Nova
15. Pete Dunne	15. Alex Gracia
16. Shigehiro Irie	16. Xia Brookside
17. Bryan Keith	17. AQA
18. Charlie Dempsey	18. Rachel Ellering
19. Mark Davis	19. Indi Hartwell
20. Kyle Fletcher	20. Persia Pirotta
21. Ridge Holland	21. Stevie Turner
22. Man Like Dereiss	22. Jessi Kamea
23. Ashton Smith	23. Natalia Markova
24. Cara Noir	24. Katherine Darcy
25. Teoman	25. Isla Dawn
26. Zack Gibson	26. Blair Davenport
27. Charles Crowley	27. Jamie Hayter
28. Nathan Cruz	28. TBA
29. TBA	29. TBA
30. TBA	30. TBA

Shade · May 11, 2024

NXT INDIA: THE STORY SO FAR

With the WWE continuing it's plans for growth and expansion. It's third location was a relatively untapped land for wrestling in comparison to their out reaches in Mexico and Japan. As unlike those two locations, India was not as established as a hot bed for wrestling. This meant unlike the teething issues and direct competition that WWE's NXT Japan and Mexico projects would have to endure. Their voyage into India would be welcomed and uncontested allowing WWE the chance to firmly establish themselves at the forefront of the Indian wrestling scene. With few in the way of independent promotions, what boded well for WWE was former world champion and roster member Great Khali holding his own promotion and training program which was quickly absorbed under the NXT India banner with Khali being brought in to work both in an on air and off air capacity. On top of this WWE to their credit had a few talents to it's roster who attracted big attention to the Indian Wrestling fans namely Jinder Mahal and Veer Mahan with Mustafa Ali also earning a solid fan base.

In the baseline of setting up NXT India, WWE would also as a means to further build on it's relationship with Saudi Arabia, assign Mansoor to the NXT India rank to further his development. On top of this we'd learn that the Bollywood Boys, Indus Sher, Ariya Daivari and Mustafa Ali would all be added to the NXT India roster to further draw fan interest. Not long after this we'd further learn that Shawn Daivari would make his WWE return to not only work as a trainer for the NXT India Performance Center along with veteran Sonjay Dutt and the Great Khali but that he'd be joining the NXT India Roster as a wrestler. Finally though in perhaps the biggest addition to the roster former WWE Champion Jinder Mahal by request was assigned to the roster and was also said to be fully committed to helping backstage in the development of the younger Indian talents.

Finding a base location to hold shows in the G.M.C. Balayogi Indoor Stadium in Hyberabad, India. WWE soon would begin to announce some further developments for the brand including veteran Indian wrestler Gama Singh who would be signed to act as a color commentator for the promotion along with announcers Nathalie Mamo and Salil Acharya. Presenter and WWE Wal3ooha host Moein Al Bastaki meanwhile would take the reigns of in ring introductions while Madonna Tixeira would handle backstage interviews. Following these announcements it wouldn't take long for the WWE to publish a full roster for NXT India on there website which was as followed..

Gama Singh - Color Commentator
Moein Al Bastaki - Ring Announcer
Nathalie Mammo - Play by Play
Salil Acharya - Play by Play
Madonna Tixera - Backstage Correspondent
Ranjin Singh
The Great Khali - General Manager
Tiger Ali Singh

Apu Signh
Ariya Daivari
Arjun Singh
Arya Z
Badshah Khan
Baliyan Akki
Baljit Singh
Bhupinder Singh
Dilsher Shanky
Dinesh the Destroyer
Guru Raaj
Harman
Indostar
Jeet Rama
Jeetu Chaudhary
Jey Jackson
Jinder Mahal
Jora Johl
Kamesh Koshale
Kishan Raftar
Laxmikant Rajput
Mahabali Shera
Mansoor
Max Risky
Mustafa Ali
Neal the Hector
Rajpoot Rudra
Raj Singh
Rohan Raja
Rohit Raju
Samar Singh
Samraat
Sanga
Shane
Shawn Daivari
Shiva
Shivam
Skyler
Sonjay Dutt
Sukhwinder Grewal
Sunil Singh
Superboy
Surender Bhati
Veer Mahan
Vikas Kumar
Zorro

Alexis Lee
Ariella
Arushi
Cheeni Alia
Crystal
Divya
Elita
Kavita Devi
Mephisto
Mona
Ramona
Reeta
Sanjana George
Sareena Sandhu
Tyra

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One further point of intrigue for the brand would be the addition of the Great Khali in a general manager capacity. A recognizable figure and notable celebrity in his home country of India, Great Khali and this managerial role very much drew a lot of intrigue. As we'd see Khali very much was a hands off General Manager who only really stepped in when things were serious. Apart from that Khali was all about just running shows that the fans of NXT India would enjoy. Always on sight as he usually sat with the crowd or by the time keeper's table for the shows, Khali in what was a surprising twist would on occasion would actually compete in an attraction match himself in order to appease fans of NXT India. These matches would usually be handicap matches against 2 or 3 local talents during which time Khali would be victorious in only a matter of minutes.

However in recent weeks, Great Khali has began to find his time as general manager become a little more tenuous and stressful thanks to the arrival of Ranjin Singh. The brother of the Great Khali, Singh would prove himself to be a lot more serious and intense about NXT India during his conversations with his fun loving brother. Wanting Khali to be more authoritative and business minded regarding the promotion, it seemed that Ranjin would never let up and constant second guess every decision Khali made relating to the brand and his general manager duties. Which in turn began making for a quite tense and stressful occasion for all those around when Ranjin Singh and the Great Khali were in the same room with one another.

Behind the Great Khali himself, there was no bigger star for NXT India than former WWE Champion Jinder Mahal. However in a stark contrast with Jinder's presentation on the main roster, there was some noted differences here in NXT India. While his star may have fallen slightly off his title reign, Jinder was still a popular star in his home meaning for the first time in his entire WWE career. Jinder Mahal would not be a stereotypical foreign menace. Instead Jinder Mahal would be revered and treated with the upmost respect by the crowd for his efforts and accomplishments. During his first promo with the brand Mahal was both caught off guard and equally moved by the reaction. Struggling to contain his emotions, Jinder spoke openly of the many ups and downs he's faced in his career and the journey he has had to endure to get to this moment. Calling it all worth it to be standing here right now and hearing the crowd chant his name, Jinder would promise the audience that from this point on he would do and be better.

Taking these words to heart Jinder would prove himself to be quite the representative for the brand. Talking proudly of his family and his heritage. Jinder would find himself matched up in the tournament to crown the first ever NXT Indian Heavyweight Champion. After entering in a bunch of spirited efforts in what was a round robin style tournament, Jinder Mahal would be victorious and be named the first ever Indian Heavyweight Champion. Following a victory over his old friend Shanky which was his first title defense, Jinder not long after would find himself confronted by a surprising source. A returning WWE face who had not been seen in decades this of course being Tiger Ali Singh. Portraying himself as a wealthy, businessman like character and shrewd investor, Tiger Ali loudly and proudly proclaimed himself as the originator of Indian Professional wrestling.

It would be then that Tiger introduced one of his many commodities, Raj "Champagne" Singh. The vain Champagne Singh very much was portrayed as a spoiled brat of a person thanks to Tiger's funding. Seeking to capitalize on things, Tiger Ali Singh would offer Jinder financial incentive if he was to lay down and let Champagne Singh cover him for the title. This suggestion appeared to outrage Jinder who openly said that he will not be laying down for anyone and that if Singh wants this title he will have to take it from him the traditional way. This didn't sit well with Tiger Ali Singh who was out raged with Jinder's decision to take a stand against him. A failed attack by Champagne Singh would send him packing from the ring. This in turn would set up Jinder's next title defense at the Pahlavani Yudda event against Champagne Singh.

As mentioned previously Mansoor's inclusion with NXT India was heavily based on WWE's relationship with Saudi Arabia. To his credit however Mansoor would quickly prove himself worthy of being apart of the roster with some impressive outings. On top of this Mansoor very quickly became a crowd favorite after picking up an upset victory over Ariya Daivari. Like many talents, Mansoor seemed fully committed to getting his hands on the NXT India Flyweight Championship. With names such as Bhupinder Gujar, Jora Johl, Indostar and Skyler all vying for the title. Mansoor and those 4 talents would soon find themselves met by veteran Sonjay Dutt who also laid a claim to the championship and felt it should belong to him.

Two triple threat matches woul follow with Mansoor besting Jora Johl and Skyler while Sonjay Dutt overcome Indostar and Bhupinder Gujar. During the match to crown the first ever flyweight champion, it seemed that the respect these two men shared for one another would fade throughout. Tearing into one another at points, the match would come to a shocking conclusion when both men would successfully pin one another to the canvas at the same time to pick up the victory. Following this all bets very much would be off unfortunately between the pair as this match brought some bad blood out. This led to a scuffle after the match which security and officials would arrive on the scene to break up before either man could get hurt.

Following this draw, both men would meet with The Great Khali to see what would happen next. While Khali seemed to have a ladder match in mind between the pair to decide the first champion. His older brother Ranjin Singh would pull Khali aside and mention the ratings draw that this pair had in their first match. Following some consultation between the pair of brothers, The Great Khali would elect to announce that the Flyweight championship would now be determined by the winner of a five match series between Mansoor and Sonjay Dutt. Currently the score between the pair is tied with one win apiece as Mansoor scored the first win following a superkick on Dutt while Sonjay picked up a count out win in the second match after he bound Mansoor's legs to the guard rail out of the eye of the official. The third match in the series will take place at the

Pahlavani Yudda event.

In a stark contrast from the Heavyweight and Flyweight Championships. The NXT India tag team title picture wasn't one which thrived on competition so to speak. With there not being many established teams from the off, the tag team scene very much was dominated by the pair of Sanga and Veer aka Indus Sher. This destructive duo had practically run roughshod over the tag team division. This included a destructive victory over the pair of Skyler and Max Risky which led to Sanga and Veer being crowned as the NXT India Tag Team Champions. To say there wasn't many teams clamoring to face the pair of Indus Sher would be an understatement especially after a dominant showing against the pair of Jeet Rama and Kishan Raftar.

However one team would soon emerge from the woodwork and look to stake a claim in the tag team division. In a similar light to Jinder Mahal and his search for redemption as he sought to be a better man who could truly represent the Indian wrestling scene. The pair of Harv and Gurv Shira aka the Bollywood Boyz very much made a similar proclamation. Calling themselves more than flunkeys or lackeys who are there to be thrown about by others. The Bollywood Boyz call this their shot to show the world exactly who they are and what they can do which is why they are going to do what no one else has been able to do yet. Which is defeat the monstrous duo of Indus Sher, in response to this call out Rohit Raju who has been seen at the side of Indus Sher as of late would accept the challenge for his team to put the belts on the line against the Bollywood Boyz at the upcoming special.

Out of all the divisions and titles so far, two divisions which seemingly needed the most work or will do so are the tag team division and the NXT India Women's division. With many women still very much honing their craft in a lot of cases of the talent used for the brand it was a case of learning on the job. The face of the brand by far was a woman familiar to fans of the Mae Young Classic, Kavita Devi. The powerhouse and former weight lifter was a popular star with many of the fans in attendance. As a means to assist the women's division NXT India would personally fly in some of their more seasoned female talent for one off appearances. This included talents such as ROW's Dream Girl Ellie and Christi Jaynes to help establish the division further.

While Devi was very much a fixture at the top of the card and shown to be a humble woman who wanted nothing more than for her daughter to see her mother succeed. A plot would form against Devi and it would be orchestrated by Singapore's Alexis Lee. Shown to be a highly manipulate and opportunistic woman who made it clear that she would personally come for Devi when Devi was at her weakest. Alexis Lee in the meantime would send in reinforcements to target Devi, this included the menacing Jennacide who was specially brought over for one match. Following the end of this bout however Devi was blindsided by two women later introduced as Ramona and Reeta. Following this attack Devi would agree to put her title on the line in a handicap match against the duo. Knowing that Alexis Lee would be watching on closely.

With NXT India still in it's early phases and looking to establish itself, we'd see very much an open door policy which allowed many talents a chance to reach up and grab the fabled brass ring. One talent who quickly emerged as someone to watch as Baliyan Akki. A charismatic individual and highly adept high flyer, Akki quickly stood out as someone to watch potentially in the Flyweight Division in the near future. With the crowd getting behind him also Akki would pick up some impressive victories, the biggest of which being over Arya Daivari in what was a stunning upset. Using his trust worthy 450 splash, chants for Akki would echo throughout the building as it was clear that Akki gradually was becoming one of NXT India's top stars.

Sadly this put quite a target on Akki's bar early on as a lot of people didn't believe Akki was good enough nor had he earned the right to even be in the ring. One outspoken critic of stuff who seemed to take great offense to Akki was Arjun Singh. Having been unsuccessful in the Heavyweight title tournament, it appeared that Arjun Singh was looking for someone to blame and he had chosen to take out his issues on the smaller Baliyan Akki. Unwilling to back down from Singh, Akki instead would challenge him to a match at the upcoming special. This was met with a cocky smirk by Arjun who accepted the challenge calling the match a mismatch with the result not in question to say the least!

Having been mentioned a few times already through this report. It is safe to say that when it came to the superstars of NXT India, there was perhaps not a group as disliked as the Succession stable led by Tiger Ali Singh. Comprised currently of Rohit Raju, Champagne Singh and seemingly Indus Sher. It was safe to say that Singh and Raju were the pair who really followed in Ali Singh's footsteps. While Singh showed himself to be highly entitled and arrogant believing the world title should be his. In Rohit Raju things would perhaps be even more so frustrating for the fans and many of the NXT India wrestlers. Portrayed in many ways as a spoiled, trust fund kid who was usually backed up when in need by Indus Sher and anyone else that he could buy. Rohit Raju showed himself to be a brat who believed he was untouchable.

While Champagne Singh targeted the NXT Indian Heavyweight championship, Rohit Raju meanwhile seemed content with stirring up trouble and targeting one of the more beloved NXT India characters. This would be the towering Shanky who while perhaps not the most skilled or successful in ring competitor with the brand, had become a popular attraction thanks to his dancing segments. One of which would even see the Great Khali join him in ring for a dance off. Seemingly taking issue with the dancing and parties, Raju would crash the proceedings and cut a scathing promo on what he branded a joke. In turn he'd be met with a boot to the face by Shanky sending him spilling to the floor. This would set up their upcoming clash as Raju pledged to bring an end to the singing and dancing.

While not an official member of the Sucession, Ariya Daivari very much seemed to fit in with the group as he was portrayed as a friend of Rohit Raju and very much showed himself to be a spoiled, entitled party boy like Raju. Unfortunately for Daivari his success on 205 live would not translate to NXT India. Going winless in numerous bouts Daivari couldn't help but hide his frustration as despite his money and proclaimed fame success just wasn't translating. After losses to the likes of Shera, Mansoor and others Ariya Daivari's stock continued to fall until after one loss he would find himself confronted by a surprising source. This of course would be the return of Shawn Daivari to the WWE who was far from impressed with what his brother had become.

Branding his brother a disgrace to their family name for his lack of focus and for focusing too much on the nightlife and not enough on what brought their family success which was competition. Seeking to awaken something in his younger brother Shawn Daivari would slap him hard across the face. In the weeks which followed Ariya seemed to show a bit more fire but still the results would stay the same as he'd be the one defeated. Watching on in disgust Shawn seemingly had enough after one match and snatched a microphone before cutting a blistering promo on his brother. Berating his younger brother and calling him a complete disgrace to their family name, in response to this Ariya would challenge his older brother to a match at the upcoming special. However with the bad blood between the pair this wouldn't be a normal match and would be an Indian Strap Match!

With NXT India continuing to look into developing new stars. One name that seemed to be on the road to success Bhupinder Gujar. Shown to be a slowly developing prospect who picked up a handful of small wins. Gujar was someone who the commentary team seemed to tab as a star in the making. After picking up his biggest victory yet over Ariya Daivari, it seemed that all this praise and development that Gujar had received had managed to irk several of the other wrestlers on the roster. This was shown during matches that Gujar had against the likes of Dinesh the Destroyer and others that Rohan Raja was on commentary and couldn't hide his disgust and disappointment in Gujar being perceived as the future. This would culminate with Raja blindsiding Gujar following a match and knocking him out with a microphone to the back of the head.

One of the most popular talents in NXT India and one of the rare few rivalling Jinder Mahal would be that of powerhouse Mahabali Shera. A rising standout who has picked up some solid victories as of late. Shera very much had made it clear that his goal was to challenge for and win the NXT India Heavyweight Championship. Yet this promo by Shera would soon find himself with a dangerous encounter on the horizon as he was confronted by the monstrous Sukhwinder Grewal who was accompanied by Surender Bhati. Doing the speaking for Grewal, Bhati stated that Shera would not be in line for a title shot as the line starts and ends with the Giant Grewal. Following this stare down and a hew harsh words traded back and forth, these two titans would agree to face off in a match.

The last piece of news for NXT India would be about it's big new acquisition. Seeking to further bring in fans and attract attention, we'd learn that former WWE Cruiserweight champion and Smackdown Superstar Mustafa Ali would be arriving to the brand at the upcoming event. The talented and charismatic high flyer was very much seen as a big get for NXT India and was looked upon by many as a surefire main event star. This meant that there was very much a target on Ali's back with Jora Johl in particular vocal about wanting to prove himself against Mustafa Ali. During a press conference for the event, Johl would go as far to confront Ali face to face leading to Ali accepting his challenge for the match!

Shade · May 11, 2024

WWE UK NEXT SHOW PREVIEW

WWE UK RUMBLE
Set for this coming week after months of build up will be the third annual WWE UK Rumble. Set to feature 30 of the men's wrestlers from the world over, the winner of this match will of course compete for the championship at the upcoming Showcase event! With a new champion of course recently being crowned as in a shocking moment Spike Trivet unseated Finn Balor to become the WWE UK Champion. With 28 men confirmed for this match, there are still two spots remaining to be claimed and many names reported and rumored to be flying about. Tune in this coming week to see who will follow in the likes of past winners such as Drake Maverick to earn themselves a monumentous opportunity at the Showcase!

PARTCIPANTS
Angelico
Michael Oku
Suge D
Nathan Frazier
Nathan Cruz
Ludwig Kaiser
Clement Petiot
Tyler Bate
Trent Seven
A-Kid
Carlos Romo
Asher Hale
JD Drake
Gabriel Kidd
Kid Lykos
Pete Dunne
Shigehiro Irie
Bryan Keith
Charlie Dempsey
Mark Davis
Kyle Fletcher
Ridge Holland
Man Like Dereiss
Ashton Smith
Cara Noir
Zack Gibson
Teoman
Charles Crowley

Plus two more entrants to be announced!

DTP · May 13, 2024

WWE UK - June 29, 2020:

I've been pretty spotty with this of late due to various reasons. Since last time I checked in, I see you've began the great world build of NXT across the world. It's such an ambitious idea, and I commend you for what was surely a great amount of time and research to amount not only a roster, but storylines and the likes. Particularly the Indian territory, considering how vague it can be at times to try and follow that company. I feel to compensate for these territories now established that we see some crossover elements incorporated to the creative process, where it suits best. It feels quite nationalistic, for obvious reasons but I feel like there's a lot that can be done here. If Worlds Collide existed in this world, that would be interesting. World X Cup perhaps? The possibilities of showcase are endless.

Pretty crazy to see Joel Redman here, years after his run as Oliver Grey. I feel like Grey has far more name value, particularly as he was an NXT Tag Team Champion once upon a time.

The opening segment provided a method to establishing the group formerly known as the Kingdom, as we see Matt Taven make his arrival. It's an interesting idea for a faction with the unique name of "The Throne". Bo Dallas ties into this remarkably so. A lot of detail and moving pieces here, but it did help get Ilja Dragunov and Joe Hendry into the mix. I won't lie, I've never been too hot on Hendry, musical talent or not, but he would make for a fun jester or musician for the Throne to marvel upon.

I believe Nathan Frazier is in for a big run in the future. He's still quite new by 2020 standards, but I wouldn't mind seeing him get a substantial push in the future. I don't question that he and Kid Lykos had a fun match here.

I'm not too familiar with Eliza Alexander, but know of her ring name Lizzy Evo in passing. It was a no brainer who was going over here, with Hyan having more character. I did like the end of the losing streak evoking such emotion from them.

A lot of moving pieces in these backstage segments. Not a lot is happening in them in the grand scheme of things, but for right now they work plenty.

I feel like a match with such levity as a twelve-woman 'All Star Showcase' should have been given a greater platform, like a main event or simply more build ahead of it. It featured unique blends of talents, that much was for sure. Hopefully it got time, as this was a pretty star-studded affair, as intended to build towards the UK Rumble show.

I don't doubt one day Gabriel Kidd could be Doug Williams' undoing as a pro-wrestler...

Isla Dawn settling the score with Kay Lee Ray in the No Holds Barred match was great. I do think we could have separated the women's matches, as this made for three in a row. The good thing about this idea of a territorial WWE system, is that with a big payoff, a star like KLR, whom little more can be done for at one level, can simply move on for NXT or another group a la NXT Japan or Mexico.

On the topic of all of the NXT global expansion, I do have to wonder what the state of the WWE's main roster looks like with all of these talents divided across the world.

Shigehiro Irie was the right man to win against Aaron Henare. Bless Henare, but I've never been too high on him. He's a good worker but I've always found it difficult to get behind him in a meaningful way.

I cant say I was expecting Spike Trivet to win the WWE United Kingdom Championship here whatsoever. The angle worked well to set something up for Finn Bálor moving forward, but it is surprising to see this two weeks out from the WWE UK Rumble show. Then again, I suppose that show will be set up no different than one of these weekly instalments in format. The Men's and Women's UK Rumble matches will surely consume the entire show. Ridge Holland suits Spike as his heavy, and hopefully his reign fares better than his run on top of PROGRESS.

Shade · May 13, 2024

DTP said:
WWE UK - June 29, 2020:

I've been pretty spotty with this of late due to various reasons. Since last time I checked in, I see you've began the great world build of NXT across the world. It's such an ambitious idea, and I commend you for what was surely a great amount of time and research to amount not only a roster, but storylines and the likes. Particularly the Indian territory, considering how vague it can be at times to try and follow that company. I feel to compensate for these territories now established that we see some crossover elements incorporated to the creative process, where it suits best. It feels quite nationalistic, for obvious reasons but I feel like there's a lot that can be done here. If Worlds Collide existed in this world, that would be interesting. World X Cup perhaps? The possibilities of showcase are endless.

Pretty crazy to see Joel Redman here, years after his run as Oliver Grey. I feel like Grey has far more name value, particularly as he was an NXT Tag Team Champion once upon a time.

The opening segment provided a method to establishing the group formerly known as the Kingdom, as we see Matt Taven make his arrival. It's an interesting idea for a faction with the unique name of "The Throne". Bo Dallas ties into this remarkably so. A lot of detail and moving pieces here, but it did help get Ilja Dragunov and Joe Hendry into the mix. I won't lie, I've never been too hot on Hendry, musical talent or not, but he would make for a fun jester or musician for the Throne to marvel upon.

I believe Nathan Frazier is in for a big run in the future. He's still quite new by 2020 standards, but I wouldn't mind seeing him get a substantial push in the future. I don't question that he and Kid Lykos had a fun match here.

I'm not too familiar with Eliza Alexander, but know of her ring name Lizzy Evo in passing. It was a no brainer who was going over here, with Hyan having more character. I did like the end of the losing streak evoking such emotion from them.

A lot of moving pieces in these backstage segments. Not a lot is happening in them in the grand scheme of things, but for right now they work plenty.

I feel like a match with such levity as a twelve-woman 'All Star Showcase' should have been given a greater platform, like a main event or simply more build ahead of it. It featured unique blends of talents, that much was for sure. Hopefully it got time, as this was a pretty star-studded affair, as intended to build towards the UK Rumble show.

I don't doubt one day Gabriel Kidd could be Doug Williams' undoing as a pro-wrestler...

Isla Dawn settling the score with Kay Lee Ray in the No Holds Barred match was great. I do think we could have separated the women's matches, as this made for three in a row. The good thing about this idea of a territorial WWE system, is that with a big payoff, a star like KLR, whom little more can be done for at one level, can simply move on for NXT or another group a la NXT Japan or Mexico.

On the topic of all of the NXT global expansion, I do have to wonder what the state of the WWE's main roster looks like with all of these talents divided across the world.

Shigehiro Irie was the right man to win against Aaron Henare. Bless Henare, but I've never been too high on him. He's a good worker but I've always found it difficult to get behind him in a meaningful way.

I cant say I was expecting Spike Trivet to win the WWE United Kingdom Championship here whatsoever. The angle worked well to set something up for Finn Bálor moving forward, but it is surprising to see this two weeks out from the WWE UK Rumble show. Then again, I suppose that show will be set up no different than one of these weekly instalments in format. The Men's and Women's UK Rumble matches will surely consume the entire show. Ridge Holland suits Spike as his heavy, and hopefully his reign fares better than his run on top of PROGRESS.

Hey my dude! Thank you for taking the time to leave a review! I'm glad you like the world building I've been doing as of late. If I'm honest a lot of credit has to go to @Looking Glass and @Roy Mustang. Looking Glass in many ways and I've told him this is someone who helped rescue this BTB from it's darkest period and honestly without him I wouldn't still be booking this project. Honestly cannot say enough about what a help he has been to me with this. Roy meanwhile has been an excellent sounding board and someone who has gone to great lengths listening to my ideas and stories. Even if I'm sure I've talked his ear off. It's both of them who have provided a lot of valuable insight when it's come to me shaping those reports. Both of whom have acted as sounding boards and in many ways helped filter the good from the bad. You are definitely right that NXT India was in some ways my biggest challenge of the bunch so far. But TBH, I relished that opportunity as it allowed me to almost start from complete scratch as opposed to having an entire roster of established names and personalities. I love the world X Cup/Worlds Collide idea. This is something I do very much want to do and have spoken about a long time back. I think more than anything I just need to work out the logistics relating to what kind of show and how many representatives I'd have. But it's definitely something I want to do and I'm glad to hear that there is a demand for it!

Glad you liked the Joel Redman appearance. He's someone I've always been high on personally and someone I think makes for a solid addition to the brand. It won't be for a little while but my goal for Redman will be to re-establish him in the tag team ranks. So with the Throne and the Matt Taven arrival this TBH was through necessity. With all the negativity surrounding Drew Gulak lately, I just thought I'd rather not continue using him. But obviously he's been a focal point of this story so I needed a replacement or upgrade. If I'm honest, my original options were Tucker Knight and Ariya Daivari before I later considered Buddy Murphy. Of course both Daivari and Murphy are in my territory system and I didn't want to bring them in for such a short time thing. Then if I'm honest it was Roy who acted as my sounding board for bringing in Taven. I know this segment was a lot to follow but I just wanted to establish the battle lines if that makes sense. Frazier is definitely someone I've enjoyed using. Considering it was only meant to be a short use ahead of the UK Rumble. He may force me to alter my plans for him and expedite that process.

You definitely are right about the all star women's showcase. I think maybe in hindsight it should have opened the show however I was conscious of it's placement after the multi person brawl. Which also definitely makes me agree in hindsight about the grouping of the three women's matches together. While I tried to make them all different and spaced out, it probably would have been best to space them out more. The Spike Trivet title win has honestly been one I've had in the pipeline for the longest time. I'm honestly over the moon to have been able to make this happen finally as it really sets off a new era in my brand. So with the rumbles I can confirm they will take place on back to back weeks and the shows will very much be sole focused, one match shows. All I can say is I hope you enjoy what I've got planned for the WWE UK Rumbles. Thanks once more for the review my friend.

Shade · 2024-06-02T17:00:02-0400

WWE UK
Episode #139 | SOLO
06/07/20
BT SPORT STUDIO | LONDON ENGLAND
BACKSTAGE CORRESPONDENTS ~ JOANNA ROSE AND SIMON MILLER
RING ANNOUNCER ~ ANDY SHEPERD
COMMENTARY TEAM ~ JOHN GOODEN AND WADE BARRETT

DARK MATCH: KIP SABIAN W/LA TAYLOR VS. SID SCALA

Before the show can officially begin, the fans in attendance would be treated to a dark match as local talent Sid Scala took on Kip Sabian. This however would be a greatly different Kip Sabian than the one we was previously used to. Firstly walking out to new music and bizarrely clad with a box on his head which had the words Under Rated Over It emblazoned on the front. Flanked by the menacing powerhouse LA Taylor. Sporting a new look with grey dyed hair and facial hair, this bout wasn't only an introduction of a new look but also a new style for Sabian. Showing a newfound aggression and nastiness in his ways. Sabian wasted little time in putting his opponent away with Avada Kadriva!

Chasing Cadence's Dear Life plays in the background for the opening of tonight's edition of WWE UK. Starting out with a video package which detailed all the events of the previous show, prime focus was given to the chaotic opening which was of course the Beer Garden which broke down into a brawl between the Throne, Ilja Dragunov, Joe Hendry, Mark Andrews, Morgan Webster and Adam Brooks. Following this we'd see Isla Dawn defeat Kay Lee Ray in a No Holds Barred clash before finally the video would settle on the main event of the evening which saw Finn Balor defend his UK Heavyweight Championship against Spike Trivet. The match of course would come to a shocking conclusion which saw Trivet become the WWE UK Champion. With that this week's show would officially open up inside the BT Sports Studio with a lively crowd in attendance. After panning round the crowd a few times, the cameras would cut to the commentary table where Wade Barrett and John Gooden are seated.

John: Ladies and Gentleman, good evening and welcome to a very special edition of WWE UK. Because after months of anticipation it is finally time for our WWE UK Rumble. Now of course the Women's Rumble will be taking place next week but before we get to that, we have to turn our attention to tonight. Where thirty men will compete in the men's rumble with the winner of course being afforded a UK Championship opportunity. Before we go any further however we'd be remiss to talk about last week and the shocking conclusion to the night which has left the UK Brand shaken to it's very core as Spike Trivet now stands as it's UK Champion.

Wade: Speak for yourself John, Personally it's hard to be shaken when you've expected the result for the longest time. As someone who has been in power here and spent time behind the scenes. There was no one as determined to become champion as Spike Trivet. While you and the people here may not like the tactics he employs or the decisions he makes, there is no denying his skills and worthiness as champion.

John: Now before we get to the UK Rumble, there are two matters which need to be addressed. One of which is a positive and the other which is unfortunately some... To quote my colleague here bad news. So starting with the good, I'd like to welcome a guest addition to our commentary table tonight. A man who has been in these competitors position and who has survived to call himself a winner... Drake Maverick!

To a loud pop from the crowd in attendance, Drake Maverick walks out from the back with a smile on his face before he walks down to the ring. High fiving several fans on his way down to the ring, Drake Maverick reaches the table and shakes hands with both John Gooden and Wade Barrett before taking a seat behind the table.

Wade: Drake, my old friend it is great to see you! Welcome back to the UK Brand.

Drake: Thank you Wade and thank you John also for having me. The UK rumble is a special night for me as honestly without this night, I'd have never got the chance to say I headlined a showcase and competed for the WWE UK Championship. While I was unsuccessful in that match it was by far a highlight of my career and one I will be proud of for my life. So be back here today and having the option to call it and watch a wrestler follow in my footsteps.. Honestly it's an amazing feeling. Plus it'll be great to see how much the brand has changed since I've been gone. There's a lot of names in this field, that I'm not familiar with and am intrigued to see.

John: Now while it is great to see Drake back and to have him here by our side. There is as we mentioned some unfortunate news which does need to be addressed. I have been told by Anthony Ogogo ahead of time that I am OK to discuss everything as I see fit. Following last week's show Anthony Ogogo and myself were discussing the WWE UK Title change and Finn Balor when Ogogo stated that he would putting Balor in the UK Rumble in one of the two free spots remaining. Personally, I felt this was a great idea and one which made a lot of sense but for reasons beyond our comprehension Finn Balor will not be here tonight and is in fact now facing a medical suspension for what you are about to see!

~ INSANITY ~

With that on the titantron footage plays and it focuses on a dejected Finn Balor leaving the locker room last week. Visibly upset at having lost his championship, the cameras follow Balor as he walks through the building and begins to head towards the parking lot. While he does so Balor is approached by Joanna Rose who is looking to catch a few words with the former champion. Finn Balor however is in no means to talk and while not rude he is firm in this pledge as he tells Joanna outright that now is not the time. As she nods her head Joanna looks to step back but instead on looking ahead she expresses some concern and confusion. Balor meanwhile drops his bag as he sees a hooded man sat on the front of his car. With a Bandana over his mouth and his hood pulled over his face, it is hard to see the man's identity. Balor is not impressed as he tells the man to back off. The man instead advances towards Balor and a scuffle breaks out between the pair of them. Slamming the man's face into the hood of his car, Balor's attempts to remove the cover on his face are for naught as he is crushed by a running crossbody pinning him against the car hood by a larger man who is also concealed by a hooded top under a jean jacket. With Balor winded, these two men pick him up in the air and throw him back first onto the windshield of the car. As Balor lays on the windshield in agony with glass broken underneath him. Joanna Rose can be heard in the background shouting for help, meanwhile the two hooded men stand over Balor and remove their hoods and face coverings to reveal themselves as Alexander Wolfe and Killian Dain!

John: Even now having been aware of the situation my jaw just drops. That is a completely unprovoked and ruthless assault on Finn Balor by the pairing of Alexander Wolfe and Killian Dain. I just don't understand what triggered this seemingly targeted assault on Finn Balor. Wade not to dredge up the past, but when you was in charge of this brand, forgive me if I am mistaken but wasn't the stipulation of Sanity's war with BSS that the losers must disband. What are Killian Dain and Alexander Wolfe still doing here?

Wade: Honestly I don't know. If you remember right John, I said the group must dissolve and it did. Yet as we saw while Eric Young may have returned to Raw, Nikki Cross did stay with WWE UK for a while and compete as a singles. As for these two, I did attempt at the time to secure both men to WWE UK with Killian Dain as a wrestler and Alexander Wolfe working as a coach at the WWE UK performance center yet both men went completely off of the grid. I couldn't reach them and no one had way of contacting them. They vanished until now and carried out this assault.

Drake: I have known both Dain and Wolfe for a long time. They have both always been a bit wild and erratic but I have never seen them do anything like that.

John: Well look until we know more. Let's not let this take away from the night we have in front of us. So with that said let's head to the ring now where our colleague Andy Shepherd is standing by to officially welcome us to the UK Rumble.

The cameras then direct us to the ring where Andy Shepherd is standing by. The ring announcer has a big smile on his face as he prepares to announce the match.

Andy Shepherd: Ladies and Gentleman it is now time for the WWE UK Rumble Match! This match will begin with the participants who have drawn numbers one and two respectively and every two minutes from that point another superstar will enter. Elimination will only occur when a superstar is thrown over the top rope and both feet touch the floor. So with that in mind let's introduce the first two participants.

Andy Shepherd: Entering the match as number one. He is one half of the WWE UK Tag Team Champions... Mark Davis!

To a loud cheer from the crowd Aussie Open's Mark Davis walks out from the back brandishing his tag team championship. Walking down to the ring the fired up Davis slaps hands with several of the fans before he climbs up onto the apron and enters the ring. Once in the ring Davis holds his title high in the air while some of the crowd join in with chants of Aussie! Aussie! Aussie!

John Gooden: I know a lot of people who would be angry or disappointed to be first in a match like this. But I get this feeling that in the case of Mark Davis he is actually relishing this opportunity.

Wade: I couldn't have said it better myself. Similar to his partner Kyle Fletcher, these two are looking to show they are as skilled in singles action as they are in tag team. This is a huge opportunity for the two of them and knowing Mark Davis as I do. He sees being the first in this match as a true test for himself.

Drake: I do have a lot of respect for the Aussies and what they've accomplished so far. I also love that they want to do this rather than rest on their laurels. I do however selfishly find myself intrigued as to what would happen if this match came down to Fletcher and Davis. Would they hold anything back is what I wonder? but knowing those two men I highly doubt that'd be the case.

Andy Shepherd: And now introducing the man who drew the number two position!

Andy Shepherd: Entering at number Two.. A-Kid!

Again the crowd cheers as A-Kid rushes out from the back accompanied by Mariah May. It seems that May issues A-Kid a pep talk of sorts which fires up her charge before he rushes to the ring and slides under the bottom rope.

John: Well this just got interesting. It wasn't long ago that Team White Wolf took on Aussie Open in a thrilling contest. Sadly since then A-Kid and Carlos Romo haven't exactly been on the same page but tonight's his night to show that his head is back on the right track.

Wade: Similar to what Drake said about Aussie Open, I'd be interested to see what happens if A-Kid faces off with his partner Carlos Romo. The two nearly fought two weeks ago so we'll see if they can work on the same page. Then again I'm also fascinated by how he will interact with Ludwig Kaiser. As it seems like A-Kid has been being courted by the Foreign legion.

Drake: A-Kid is a consummate professional. While he's had a lot of baggage and drama come his way as of late. When it comes to what happens in the ring. He is not someone who will lose focus on the task at hand. That is something which we can be certain.

MAIN EVENT: UK RUMBLE

Entrant #1 - Mark Davis
Entrant #2 - A-Kid

The bell rings to officially start the WWE UK Rumble. Walking to the center of the ring both Mark Davis and A-Kid stand a foot across from one another. The two men have a tense stare down with one another as the crowd begins to buzz with anticipation. The pair then lock up and the more powerful Mark Davis is able to quickly back A-Kid up into the ropes. From here Davis throws A-Kid back into the center of the ring with a big hip toss. As A-Kid staggers to his feet, Mark Davis then follows up with a big shoulder tackle before hitting the ropes. An attempt at a running elbow job is avoided by A-Kid who on getting to his feet hits the ropes. A-Kid manages to connect with a running enzugiri kick right to the side of Mark Davis' head. With Mark Davis stunned and stumbling backwards, A-Kid rushes to follow up with a dropkick putting Mark Davis on the ropes. A-Kid tries to grab Mark Davis' leg in the hopes of eliminating the tag team champion only for Davis to club him across the back before throwing him down to the canvas with a uranage. As A-Kid hits the mat, the timer begins for the next entrant. 5....4....3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number Three... Nathan Frazier!

John: Well things have definitely picked up here as our next entrant in the bout is an exciting prospect from the UK Performance Center Nathan Frazier.

Wade: John I think I can comfortably speak for everyone when I say I have been thoroughly impressed with Nathan Frazier so far. I remember when I was in charge of this brand hearing about a young, charismatic, high flyer in our performance center. To say he was met with rave reviews would be an understatement and often times that praise you find for one reason or another isn't perhaps as well versed as it should be. Yet in this case Nathan Frazier has more than lived up to his high touting so far.

Drake: Like Wade, I've also seen and heard a lot of praise for Nathan. While I've not had the pleasure of seeing him in the ring yet. Hearing the praise though heaped on him by Seth Rollins has me highly intrigued to see just what Nathan can do.

Entrant #3 Nathan Frazier

The crowd cheers as Nathan Frazier runs out from the back and down to the ring. Springing over the top rope and into the ring Nathan connects with a flying knee to the jaw of Mark Davis. This rattles the big Aussie and allows A-Kid some needed respite as he stumbles to his feet. Looking at one another before nodding their heads in agreement. An alliance quickly forms between the pair in an effort to take down the much larger Davis. Quick kicks from the pair follow with both Frazier and A-Kid landing some big kicks to the legs and chests of Davis wearing him out. A spinning back kick to the mid section then doubles over Davis by A-Kid. Nathan Frazier to his credit follows with a superkick which staggers the big man and a superkick/enzugiri combination by the pair follows which stumbles Davis against the ropes. A-Kid and Frazier get a little ahead of themselves however as their time spent high fiving allows Mark Davis enough time to recover and charge back off of the ropes before levelling both men with a double lariat putting them down on the canvas. The countdown for our next entrant then begins. 5...4...3...2..1

Andy Shepherd: Entering at Number Four... Gabriel Kidd!

John: I feel like a common trend we've already spoken of is potential and rising stars. In the case of this young man. There is perhaps no talent more fitting of those terms than Gabriel Kidd.

Drake: I have been thoroughly impressed with what I have seen with Gabriel Kidd. This is someone who is constantly improving and getting better and under the mentorship of Doug Williams. I see big things for Gabriel Kidd.

Wade: Like both of you I am a huge advocate for Gabriel Kidd. I see everything in him that you both do but let's not ignore the fault in the machine. As talented as Kidd is, he's got to get control of that temper. It rules him and it costs him big time at points. I know Doug is trying to make him channel it, so we can only see if he does so here.

Entrant #4 - Gabriel Kidd

To a mixed reaction from the crowd Gabriel Kidd walks out from the back and he is closely followed by Doug Williams. Kidd for his part looks fired up while Doug Williams acts as the voice of reason and reminds Gabriel to stay focused. From here Kidd rushes down the ramp and into the ring. Quickly Gabriel ducks a clothesline attempt by Mark Davis before he hits the ropes and charges off with a sick kick to the jaw of Davis. Rolling to his feet, Gabriel Kidd then catches a charging Nathan Frazier and pops him up in the air before meeting him on the way down with a roundhouse kick to the chest. Not wasting anytime Gabriel spins around A-Kid and drills him with several forearms until Kid fires back with one of his own. An attempt a lariat by Kid is ducked and Gabriel spins him around before hoisting him up and dropping him to the mat with a backpack stunner. Climbing to his feet a fired up Gabriel Kidd lets out an impassioned roar and begins screaming at the fans at ringside he's going to win this. Turning back around however this costs Kidd dearly as he is clotheslined over the ropes and out to the floor by Mark Davis as the countdown begins. Gabriel Kidd has been eliminated! 5....4....3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing our fifth entrant and representing Reality of Wrestling.. Bryan Keith!

John: Before we get into talking about Bryan Keith, Wade you pretty much called it. Gabriel Kidd's emotions got the better of him and it cost him there. But now with our first elimination out of the way we are onto our fifth entrant and it is the highly talented, Booker T trained Bryan Keith!

Drake: Keith is an excellent talent to say the least and I am thankful for this union between WWE UK and ROW which allows us access to talents such as this. Honestly this is someone I'd love to see stay apart of the WWE UK brand for a extended time period. To see how he truly fares with the WWE UK talent roster.

Wade: I must second that. I like many am very high on what Bryan Keith brings to the table. This is as well rounded a talent as I've seen in a long time. This is a guy in my opinion who truly has the potential to go far in this rumble.

Entrant #5 - Bryan Keith

Rushing down to the ring Bryan Keith on climbing up the steps and onto the apron quickly meets Mark Davis with a shoulder block to the midsection. From here Keith follows with a scissors kick to Davis while the top half of his body is draped over the middle rope. With Keith temporarily incapacitating Davis, we see in the center of the ring the earlier partnership between A-Kid and Nathan Frazier seems to have been brought to a stop as the pair are trading forearms back and forth with one another. On entering the ring it seems like Bryan Keith wants in on this action as he joins in the trading of strikes. Blocking a forearm from A-Kid, Keith fires off a hard kick to his chest before he ducks a strike from Frazier and lands a bicycle kick to the jaw of Nathan Frazier. From here Keith tosses A-Kid over the ropes but A-Kid manages to land on his feet before firing off a punch of his own. With that A-Kid springs into the ring only to be caught in mid air with a dropkick by Nathan Frazier putting him down on the canvas. The countdown then begins for the next entrant. 5..4....3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number 6. Representing Wonderland he is Teoman!

John: Well this just got a little more interesting. In this field of 30 men, there is perhaps no one as hard to predict as Teoman. Which makes him a dangerous competitor.

Drake: I have known Teoman for years. I've even stepped in the ring with him. I don't think he's ever as dangerous as he has been know knowing that he's serving the orders of Isla Dawn.

Wade: This is a vicious man and one who is truly capable of dissecting his opponents. If it was me in the other competitors shoes, I would try to avoid conflict with Teoman as much as possible to ensure I am healthy as he will take something from you.

Entrant #6 - Teoman

The crowd boos as Teoman sprints down to the ring and slides under the bottom rope. Seemingly in a frenzy Teoman pounces on Mark Davis before he can get to his feet and begins landing several headbutts to his downed opponent. At the same time across the ring Nathan Frazier corners Bryan Keith and begins to chop away at him until Teoman hits Frazier from behind. A jumping arm breaker by Teoman then follows before Teoman is met on his way up with a dropkick by A-Kid. A-Kid is then joined by Bryan Keith in hitting Teoman with a series of round house kicks to the chest until Teoman catches Keith by the leg and lands a dragon screw leg whip. A spear by Teoman then follows on A-Kid much to the crowd's chagrin yet as the Caterpillar climbs to his feet, he is spun around and met with a big headbutt by Mark Davis. This stuns Teoman and he stumbles backwards into a poison rana by Nathan Frazier. With Teoman reeling, Nathan Frazier then goes right after A-Kid while Bryan Keith and Mark Davis begin to do battle. The countdown for the next entrant could commence as Keith knocked Davis down with spin kick. 5...4...3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing the man who drew number 7. He is one half of the WWE UK Tag Team Champions.. Kyle Fletcher.

Wade: Let me be the first to say what an absolute touch for Mark Davis. He and A-Kid for that matter have been in this bout so far for nearly fifteen minutes now. Yet due to the luck of the draw, he has some much needed support here in the Aussie Arrow Kyle Fletcher.

Drake: That's assuming Kyle doesn't want to get one over on his partner here. I don't think that's likely but with Davis being the larger man yet also having put some time in, now could be the time for a double cross.

John: That remains to be seen, but there is one thing I definitely can say. I personally have been waiting to see what both members of Aussie Open can do in singles action.. In particular Fletcher, as while Davis is a lot more seasoned and established in singles competition. We have yet to see what Fletcher has to offer on his own.

Entrant #7 - Kyle Fletcher

The crowd cheers as Kyle Fletcher rushes down to the ring and once Kyle is in the ring, he quickly hits Bryan Keith from behind. This allows Mark Davis to lift up Keith in a running powerslam position before throwing Keith up in the air into a roundhouse kick from Fletcher on the way down. With Keith reeling, the Aussie Open duo quickly toss him out of the ring. Bryan Keith has been eliminated! Facing off with one another Davis and Fletcher nod their heads before turning their attention to Teoman. The rabid Teoman attempts to fight off both men with punches until Mark Davis doubles him over with a punch to the gut. From here Davis hoists Teoman in the air for a powerbomb and throws him over the top rope. Teoman hangs onto the top rope only to be hit with a superkick by Fletcher sending him to the floor. Teoman has been eliminated! From here A-Kid realizing the numbers aren't in his favor charges at Davis only to be met with a sidewalk slam. With A-Kid down, Nathan Frazier is soon overwhelmed by the numbers and hit with Coriolis. This allows Davis to toss him out the ring as the countdown begins again. Nathan Frazier has been eliminated! 5...4....3.....2....1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number eight and representing the Foreign Legion... Ludwig Kaiser!

Drake: I hope you both don't mind me starting here but I have history with this man. None of it in the slightest bit positive yet as much as I personally dislike and revile Ludwig Kaiser and his condescending, arrogant approach. I cannot deny this man's talent and honestly in my opinion, this is a dark horse in this match.

Wade: Unlike you Drake, I personally adore Ludwig. He is a man of class like myself. But I do agree about his status in this match, Kaiser while a standout in the tag team ranks is an exceptional in ring talent and someone capable of surprising people. His timing however isn't on his side as his old rivals Aussie Open are currently dominating the field.

John: It's not Aussie Open I'm most curious about if I'm honest. It's the fact that A-Kid is still in the match also. Kiaser lately has seemed intent on either befriending or recruiting A-Kid which if I'm honest A-Kid has seemed surprisingly receptive to. So we will see how they interact here.

Entrant #8 - Ludwig Kaiser

The crowd boos as Ludwig Kaiser saunters down to the ring and as he climbs up onto the apron, Kaiser begins to move quickly as he lands a european uppercut onto Kyle Fletcher. Ducking a clothesline from Davis, Kaiser lands an enzugiri in return before he looks at A-Kid. A-Kid is in the process of taking a knee and Kaiser offers him a hand to get to his feet. Albeit with some hesitation A-Kid accepts this offer and surprisingly the pair begin to band together and take the fight to the Tag Team Champions. Both Kyle Fletcher and Mark Davis appear to be badly taken off their game by this as A-Kid and Kaiser show themselves to be quite a formidable pairing. While Ludwig Kaiser battles Kyle Fletcher, we see Mark Davis taking on the man who has been with him since the very beginning of this match A-Kid. With these two battles going back and forth again we see Kaiser and A-Kid work in synch as a superkick by A-Kid allowed Kaiser to land a leaping neck breaker on Davis. The countdown for the next entrant then begins. 5......4.....3.....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing Participant number Nine. Representing the Foreign Legion.. Clement Petiot.

John: I cannot believe this. I know Wade mentioned earlier a favorable draw for Aussie Open. But the perfect timing of Clement Petiot's entrant when not only is Kaiser fresh in the ring but also A-Kid seemingly willing to work with them. This could be dangerous as we nearly get a third of the way into the field.

Drake: This is a dangerous situation for anyone now who enters the match. If A-Kid stays on the same page as The Foreign Legion that is a guaranteed 3 on 1 advantage for anyone who crosses them.

Wade: I think the bigger concern now needs to be on Aussie Open. While Kaiser is an exceptional technician and tactician. Clement Petiot is dangerous, this is a violent and aggressive man who likes to hurt people. Now he's walking into a wounded Aussie Open.

Entrant #9 - Clement Petiot

The crowd boos as Clement Petiot rushes down to the ring, meanwhile inside the ring itself A-Kid grounds Kyle Fletcher and looks to crank on an arm bar. This is until A-Kid stops and notices Clement Petiot reaching under the ring. Pulling out a steel chair while Ludwig Kaiser is seemingly calling the shots in German. On entering the ring Petiot nods his head at Kaiser while A-Kid releases his grasp on Fletcher. A steel chair shot by Clement follows across the back of Mark Davis, This puts Davis down on the canvas and several more swings of the chair follow until A-Kid tries to stop the proceedings. Kaiser tries to talk A-Kid down calling this part of the plan while Petiot begins to turn his attention to Fletcher. A chair shot by Petiot follows knocking Fletcher down to the mat. Another attempt with the chair however is stopped by A-Kid who says this isn't right and in turn Petiot begins arguing with A-Kid as he declares that it's any means necessary. Kaiser meanwhile tries to act as peace keeper when all of a sudden Kaiser shockingly cheap shots A-Kid. From here the Foreign Legion quickly drag A-Kid to his feet before tossing him from the ring. A-Kid has been eliminated! 5...4.....3.....2....1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing Participant number ten Kid Lykos!

John: While morals may have back fired and led to A-Kid's elimination. The same can't be said for our next entrant Kid Lykos who very much has a by any means motif.

Drake: I have known Lykos for many years. Some things have just never changed with Lykos. He's always been someone willing to take a short cut or two.

Wade: Well we will see if Lykos even has the chance to get rolling in this match with the Foreign Legion currently standing tall in the ring. But if anyone has a plan, I'd wager it is Kid Lykos.

Entrant #10 - Kid Lykos

Rushing down to the ring to jeers from the crowd, Kid Lykos hits the ring and he immediately shows himself to be more of a team player as he motions to Kaiser and Petiot before stomping away on the downed Kyle Fletcher. Lykos is joined in this attack by Clement Petiot while Ludwig Kaiser slaps a front face lock onto Mark Davis. Unfortunately for Kaiser he is quickly overpowered by Davis who manages to throw him off. From here Davis connects with a big boot on Kid Lykos who rolls under the rope and out to the floor. Petiot meanwhile is met with a big uppercut by Davis but in return the fired up Davis snatches Petiot by the throat and backs him up onto the ropes. Ever the opportunist Ludwig Kaiser snatches Davis by the leg and flips Mark at the ring but in the process Petiot goes with him! Mark Davis and Clement Petiot have been eliminated! Kaiser taunts the crowd but he is soon flipped over the top rope and out onto the apron by Kyle Fletcher. Kaiser tries to hold on the ropes for dear life and even shouts to Lykos for help but Lykos just watches on as Fletcher knocks Kaiser off of the apron. Ludwig Kaiser has been eliminated! 5..4...3....2... 1!

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number eleven... Charlie Dempsey!

John: I think it's safe to say that things have just gotten very interesting. The son of the legendary William Regal, Charlie Dempsey has made it clear that he is looking to make his own name in the world of wrestling. Tonight very much is a great opportunity for him to do just that.

Drake: A match like this may not play to many of the submission specialist Dempsey's strengths. But this is a highly trained and strongly determined combatant. Not to mention he has his father's knowledge rattling around that brain.

Wade: Charlie Dempsey is a throwback to a time often forgotten. Boasting a great legacy and some exceptional in ring skills. I'm just going to say it, Charlie Dempsey is a true dark horse in a match like this.

Entrant #11 Charlie Dempsey

Walking down to the ring with a purpose, Charlie Dempsey has his eyes locked firmly on Kyle Fletcher in the ring. Fletcher for his part is waving Charlie Dempsey on while the cameras show at ringside Kid Lykos is crouched down beside the ring apron. On entering the ring Dempsey wastes little time in mixing it up with Fletcher as the pair begin trading European uppercuts and forearm strikes back and forth. A headbutt from Dempsey soon turns the tide as he then snatches Fletcher to the mat with a Regal cutter. From here Dempsey begins contorting Kyle Fletcher's body and limbs putting him in all manner of submission holds. Fletcher fights in vain to get to his feet but Dempsey very much is on him and even attempts to lock on a Regal Stretch. Pulling himself to the ropes, a well timed up kick by Fletcher follows which causes Dempsey to step back allowing Kyle to hop to his feet and land a leaping enzugiri. 5...4....3....2....1

Andy Shepherd: Now introducing participant number twelve.. Ashton Smith!

John: Wade, you've spoken of dark horses when it comes to Charlie Dempsey and Ludwig Kaiser. But if there is a man in my eyes perhaps not being given his due here it is Ashton Smith. Since his return to WWE UK, Ashton has been a true shining light of the brand and someone who I see as a potential winner here.

Drake: High praise John. High praise in deed and the scary part is you are spot on if not still not saying enough. I've always said from stepping in the ring with him that Ashton Smith is someone who doesn't know how good he truly can be.

Wade: The thing is, Ashton Smith is someone who like many others is cursed with potential. It's easy to have potential but it's another to recognize it. Tonight will be a great test to see if Ashton can live up to that or if he will be another talent who falls by the wayside.

Entrant #12 - Ashton Smith

The crowd cheers as Ashton Smith rushes down to the ring, Kid Lykos attempts to cheap shot Ashton on his way down to the ring. Smith however blocks a running forearm attempt and hip tosses Lykos against the guard rail in response. Entering the ring, Ashton Smith very much has a full head of steam as he levels both Dempsey and Fletcher with clotheslines. A running elbow on Dempsey follows before Smith looks to hit Fletcher with the Ash cloud. Fletcher manages to spin out and he attempts an enzugiri which Smith ducks under before tossing Fletcher over the ropes. Fletcher skins the cat and reenters the ring before he and Smith meet each other in the center of the ring with a double clothesline. With both men down, Charlie Dempsey hits Smith with a sliding forearm before he begins to target the neck of Fletcher, This includes trapping Fletcher in a rear naked choke as the countdown begins. 5...4...3...2..1

Andy Shepherd: Now introducing number thirteen Nathan Cruz!

John: Unlucky for some but I find it kind of fitting that this is the number for Nathan Cruz. As he is someone who has often had his career impacted by things out of the ring. Namely his relationship with Katherine Darcy.

Wade: I can't believe you are criticizing this relationship. Both Nathan and Katherine are wonderful people who compliment one another perfectly in my opinion. For lack of a better term stop being a hater.

Drake: I have known Nathan Cruz for a long, long time. Unfortunately a lot longer than I'd have perhaps have liked. He's always been a trouble maker and I'm not surprised he's found someone like him in that regard.

Entrant #13 - Nathan Cruz

The crowd boos as Nathan Cruz emerges from the back with Katherine Darcy on his arm. Unlike many valets or managers Katherine comes down to the ringside area with Cruz before the duo share a kiss. From here Nathan yells out to Kid Lykos who is still stationed at ringside. It seems an agreement is quickly formed between the pair as they enter the ring as one and quickly pounce on Ashton Smith. The duo put the boots to Smith before they then begin to split off and Cruz starts choking the downed Fletcher while Lykos starts to kick at Charlie Dempsey. Rising to his feet Charlie Dempsey starts firing back at Kid Lykos with uppercuts until he is blindsided by Nathan Cruz. This allows Lykos to recover and gives him and Cruz the chance to hit Dempsey with a back elbow. From here we see this pair look to hit Smith with a double suplex on Fletcher when a running dropkick by Ashton Smith puts Cruz down on the canvas. This allows Fletcher to spin out of a Lykos Brainbuster attempt before he lands a lifting DDT on Lykos putting both men down on the canvas while the countdown begins. 5....4.....3....2....1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing number fourteen... JD Drake!

John: to quote my old friend Simon Miller, we are about to see a big meaty man out here about to slap meat. In a bout filled with technicians and high flers so far. We now have the entrant of a bruiser.

Drake: JD Drake is someone I've always felt has been under rated and under appreciated for many years. In some ways I personally liken him to a throwback, an everyman like the wrestlers of old such as Dusty Rhodes.

Wade: JD Drake very much is a man after my own heart. This is a no nonsense, tough individual who is ready for a fight at all times. A match like this is right in his wheel house.

Entrant #14 - JD Drake

Rushing down to the ring, JD Drake is clearly itching for a fight and once in the ring he wastes no time in throwing bombs. Clubbing Vader like forearms and fired off in numerous directions with Lykos and Cruz both quickly being swatted to the canvas. Ashton Smith for his part attempts to fire back at JD Drake only for Drake to respond with a big clothesline. Kyle Fletcher quickly attempts to take down JD Drake with a series of leg kicks but JD Drake pushes through and lays out the tag team champion with a running crossbody. A willing opponent would soon emerge as Charlie Dempsey showed no fear in engaging with and trading with JD Drake. Using some vicious European uppercuts Charlie Dempsey at one stage even connected with a headbutt onto Drake. JD for his part retaliates with some heavy punches before he creates a little distance between the pair and lands a dropkick onto Dempsey putting him down on the mat. Sadly as JD Drake starts to get to his feet we see that the dropkick and hitting the canvas himself would be a costly error as Nathan Cruz and Kid Lykos pounce on him with punches and kicks. 5...4....3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number 15.. Zack Gibson!

Wade: Allow me to be the one to take the lead here. As I personally feel I am allowed to partially take credit for the recent renaissance of Zack Gibson as of late. This a refocused Zack Gibson and exactly what I wanted to see from this man when I was in charge. Call me crazy but I consider Zack Gibson a potential winner of this.

Drake: Honestly I agree. I may not like the man personally but I have always believed that Zack Gibson would come into his own and make a star of himself. This definitely feels like his time.

John: To echo what my colleagues have stated. It has long felt like this man was on the cusp of doing something special. Then for one reason or another he never quite lived up to it until now. We have seen a more focused, vicious and determined Gibson. Who's sole focus seems to be on becoming Champion.

Entrant #15 - Zack Gibson

The crowd erupts into boos as Zack Gibson walks out from the back and heads down to the ring. Seemingly taking a measured approach on his way to the ring, Gibson walks around the side of the ring before sliding under the ropes and blindsiding Kyle Fletcher before he then drives Ashton Smith shoulder first into the ring post. While perhaps not working alongside the duo of Cruz and Lykos, Gibson isn't working against them as he corners Kyle Fletcher and begins to pummel him with strikes while both Lykos and Cruz continue to stomp and kick at the downed James Drake. This is until Charlie Dempsey reenters the mix and manages to fire off some uppercuts on both Cruz and Lykos before he begins going back and forth with Gibson. A headbutt by Dempsey has Gibson stunned and actually backs him up against the ropes. Dempsey charges at Gibson but this quickly backfires as Gibson manages to backdrop Charlie out of the ring. Charlie Dempsey has been eliminated! Having gotten back to his feet JD Drake blasts both Cruz and Lykos with uppercuts before he hits a big uppercut on Gibson knocking him through the ropes. 5...4....3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number 16.. Suge D!

John: He maybe winless so far as part of the WWE UK Brand, but Suge D is an exciting entrant to say the least. One of the most experienced competitor in the WWE UK, Suge D is more than capable of turning things around.

Drake: Suge D brings a lot of energy and enthusiasm everywhere he goes. This guy is always entertaining and always puts on a show. I'm confident he'll do that again tonight.

Wade: I do consider myself a fan of Suge D but at the same time, I do have my concerns. I have seen many talents like him who for one reason or another can't focus right on the task at hand and it costs them. We'll see if Suge D can focus tonight.

Entrant #16 - Suge D

Dancing his way down to the ring, Suge D seems to be in a highly celebratorial mood. Jumping over the ropes and into the ring Suge D lands a split legged dropkick onto both Kid Lykos and Nathan Cruz. Following this Suge D hits a big leaping side kick onto JD Drake before landing a leaping elbow strike on the jaw of JD Drake. Breaking into a dance routine out of celebration, Suge D unfortunately is cut off and thrown out of the ring by Zack Gibson much to the crowd's displeasure. Suge D has been eliminated! The crowd erupts into boos as Gibson is soon joined by Nathan Cruz and the pair begin to gang up and work over JD Drake. Joined in this attack by Kid Lykos, it would seem the only thing stopping this three on one beatdown would be the actions of Kyle Fletcher and Ashton Smith. Taking the fight to both Gibson and Lykos, this allows JD Drake to level Cruz with a big clothesline before he then hits Kid Lykos with a crossbody. Showing it's everyman for himself however JD Drake then follows with a double clothesline onto both Kyle Fletcher and Zack Gibson as the countdown begins. 5...4...3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Now introducing participant number 17... Asher Hale!

John: Well this just got very interesting. In a match which should be every man for himself, JD Drake is now joined by his tag team partner Asher Hale. I think it's safe to say these two will be working alongside one another for sure.

Drake: I definitely can see this pair functioning as a duo. They are both very experienced and probably made a game plan to get them this far.

Wade: Not too mention the fact that these two have been seemingly honing in on a tag team title shot. If I was Kyle Fletcher right now, I'd make sure I am very aware that there are sharks circling.

Entrant #17 - Asher Hale

Asher Hale rushes down to the ring while both Ashton Smith and JD Drake begin to trade punches back and forth. Entering the ring Asher Hale quickly shows himself to be fully on board the team up as he kicks Smith's legs from out under him. From here while JD Drake lands a senton across Ashton's chest, Asher Hale begins to unload on Kyle Fletcher with a series of kicks. Climbing to his feet Kid Lykos is soon given a taste of his own medicine as the Work Horsemen exploit the numbers on him. Showing his true colors Nathan Cruz rolls out of the ring rather than help Lykos and this leads to Lykos being driven into the mat with a Hart Attack. From here Kid Lykos is tossed over the ropes and out to the floor by Hale. Kid Lykos has been eliminated! Zack Gibson quickly looks to get back in control as he hits Hale from behind. With Hale slightly wobbled, Gibson begins to hit him with a series of forearms while Fletcher is starting to rally against JD Drake. This includes landing a big dropkick on the big man. Unfortunately for Fletcher he's met with a spinning sidewalk slam as he charged towards Drake. 5...4...3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing Entrant 18 and representing British Strong Style... Trent Seven!

Wade: My close personal friend Trent Seven! I know we've mentioned a few potential favorites in this match so far. But I think it is safe to say Trent Seven is definitely a favorite on paper based on his credentials with the WWE UK Brand.

Drake: Any praise for Trent will only bolster that massive ego of his. So whatever you do, don't let him hear this praise. Otherwise we will be greeted with more proclamations of how he started the WWE UK revolution.

John: While he may not be the most pleasant human being or trustworthy for that matter. One thing we do need to appreciate is the wily nature of Seven, I honestly highly doubt there is anyone who has drawn up a game plan for success like Seven.

Entrant #18 - Trent Seven

The crowd erupts into boos as the announcement is made and Trent Seven starts to walk down to the ring. Catching sight with Nathan Cruz at ringside before smirking, Trent Seven slowly rolls into the ring and quickly shows his at all costs styling as he rakes JD Drake in the eyes instantly. A kick to the balls follows before much to the crowd's chagrin, Trent Seven manages to eliminate JD Drake. JD Drake has been eliminated! Ever the opportunist Seven chop blocks Ashton Smith as he starts getting to his feet. From here Trent proceeds to hit a double suplex on Asher Hale with the support of Zack Gibson. Unfortunately for both men as they climb to their feet, they clearly had the same idea in mind as Seven and Gibson lamped one another with lariats. As Seven hit the mat, he'd wisely roll out under the ropes and onto the apron. Gibson meanwhile would stagger against the ropes. Looking to eliminate him, Kyle Fletcher attempted a superkick on Zack but Gibson managed to duck the blow. Fletcher would catch his leg on top of the rope and Gibson used this time to hit a clothesline which sent Fletcher over the ropes and out to the floor. Kyle Fletcher has been eliminated! 5...4...3....2..1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number 19.. He is a former WWE United Kingdom Champion.. Pete Dunne!

John: We have spoken a few times this evening about people getting the luck of the draw. In this case right here, we have a tale of two stories as while being number nineteen has afforded Pete Dunne his chance to get his hands on Trent Seven. This has perhaps issued Trent Seven his very worst nightmare at the same time!

Wade: If I was Trent Seven, I'd hop out the ring now. Pete Dunne is renowned for being one of the most vicious competitors and that's without personal issues entwined. Seven is a marked man here and that puts him in danger.

Drake: We'd normally talk about putting personal issues aside in a match like this. But having been in the ring with Pete Dunne, I know he's not someone who lets those emotions cloud his judgement.

Entrant #19 - Pete Dunne

The crowd cheers as Pete Dunne rushes down to the ring. On his way down to the ring Dunne comes face to face with Katherine Darcy who attempts to distract him only for Dunne to blast Nathan Cruz with a big forearm strike. From here Pete Dunne enters the ring and he ducks a clothesline from Gibson before laying out Gibson with a headbutt. A big enzugiri kick on Ashton Smith follows before Pete Dunne punishes Asher Hale with a series of hard forearms. Backing Hale onto the ropes, the fired up Pete Dunne wastes no time in flipping him out of the ring. Asher Hale has been eliminated! Dunne then turns his attention to Trent Seven at ringside, Seven's eyes grow wide as Dunne leaves the ring and chases him around the outside of the ring. Rolling into the ring Dunne is in hot pursuit of Seven but runs directly into a big superkick from Ashton Smith. This in turn allows Seven to hit Dunne with a DDT as the crowd boos. Climbing to his feet however Seven is surprised with a superkick by Smith. Smith then turns and comes face to face with Zack Gibson and the pair begin trading strikes as the countdown begins. 5...4...3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing the man who drew number 20... Cara Noir!

John: OK this is an interesting entrant to say the least. The last time we saw Cara Noir was of course in the European title tournament and he made it to the semi finals before being dispatched by Gunther. Despite the loss however his run in that tournament and showing against the Ring General impressed everyone.

Wade: Noir is an enigma to say the least. This is a hard to predict competitor and one who could surprise the field.

Drake: I'm a huge fan of this guy. He just captures your attention and never lets it go. Make no mistake this is perhaps one of the greatest athletes we have seen in the WWE UK since it's inception.

Entrant #20 - Cara Noir

Making a slow walk out from the back, Cara Noir slowly removes his cloak and mask on the ramp before rushing down to the ring. With a full charge behind him Noir lands a swan woo dropkick to Nathan Cruz at ringside sending Nathan crashing into one of the officials and Katherine Darcy to cheers from the crowd. From here Noir springs into the ring with a body press on both Smith and Dunne. Another Swan Woo follows on Trent Seven before Noir comes face to face with Gibson. During this staredown Gibson says he will not steal this moment from him and begins barking at Noir calling him a pretender. Gibson tries to cheap shot Noir but is shocked when Cara ducks under the punch and lands a big leaping kick to the side of the head. Gibson is stagged and Noir follows up by hoisting him up in the air before bringing Gibson down into the canvas with a brain buster! Noir then drags the stunned Gibson to his feet and tosses him out of the ring to a loud cheer! Zack Gibson has been eliminated! The crowd are on their feet as slowly Zack Gibson comes around to the realization that he has been eliminated. Storming backstage Gibson is met with chants of Na, Na Goodbye by the crowd. 5...4...3...2...1!

Andy Shepherd: Now entering the match at number 21.. Man Like Dereiss!

John: I love this entrant! In wrestling you constantly hear stories about grabbing the brass ring. If there is anyone capable of doing just that tonight and shocking the world it is Man Like Dereiss.

Wade: While I may hate his music. It's hard not to be impressed with this young man. This is someone who may even be capable of matching Cara Noir when it comes to athleticism.

Drake: I haven't seen much of Dereiss but everyone I have ever spoken to who has mentioned him has very much sung his praises. I am very excited to see him on a big stage.

Entrant #21 - Man Like Dereiss

Much to the delight of the crowd in attendance, we get an impromptu musical performance as the Lyrical Dragon Dereiss raps his way to the ring. Winning over a crowd who was perhaps at first not entirely that familiar with him. Dereiss on entering the ring quickly shows he is just as much go as he is show when he lands a big hurricanrana on Trent Seven which nearly eliminates the former tag team champion. A superkick follows on Pete Dunne while Cara Noir hits a pop up round house kick on Ashton Smith. Noir and Dereiss come face to face with one another in what the commentary team call a face off between the new era of UK wrestling. Punches are traded back and forth between both men until Nathan Cruz enters the ring and shoves Dereiss from behind leading to him and Noir clashing heads. A quick DDT on Dereiss then follows before Cruz joins forces with Trent Seven and the pair begin to put the boots to Pete Dunne. Ashton Smith meanwhile on recovering quickly hits a big running elbow strike on Cara Noir backing him into the corner as the countdown starts once more. 5....4....3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Now entering at 22.. Shigehiro Irie!

Drake: Now this is an entrant I am personally looking forward to. From NXT Japan, Shigehiro Irie.

John: This is the beauty of rumble matches. There are always talents you may not quite expect to see entering the fold. Irie is a true standout from Japan and his power will definitely serve him well.

Wade: Irie entering this late in the field is a threat for everyone. I've been in rumbles myself and seeing larger competitors like this in the later stages is disheartening for those in the match already. You're already tired and then in comes this monster.

Entrant #22 - Shigehiro Irie

Rushing down to the ring with a pop from the crowd in attendance, Shigehiro Irie very much hits the ring with a head on fire. Landing a big shoulder tackle on Nathan Cruz which sends him over the ropes and forces Cruz to skin the cat. Irie then follows up with a running crossbody block on Trent Seven to a cheer from the crowd. Looking to take the fight to the big man, Ashton Smith fires off some punches to Irie but Irie throws him off. Joining Ashton in this attack is Man Like Dereiss and the pair manage to back Irie against the ropes. With Pete Dunne joining, the trio try and flip Irie out of the ring but Irie fights them off. Catching a charging Dunne, Irie plants him with a big samoan drop before he follows with a spear on Dereiss. After rocking Ashton with a backfist, Irie to a loud pop hits a corner canonball senton on Trent. Irie then seemingly readies Trent for a Vader Bomb only for Nathan Cruz to low blow him. The crowd boos as Cruz follows up by being slid a chair from Katherine Darcy which he brings down across the back of Irie twice putting the big man down to boos. 5...4...3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant 23... Angelico!

John: It has to be said that the timing of this entrant is interesting. In the ring we have Nathan Cruz and making his entrance now is someone who he has had a lot of issues with as of late Angelico.

Drake: Angelico is someone I consider a friend. So I do feel like I can talk about him the way I am here. Angelico is one of the most talented competitors I have ever seen. Yet he constantly finds a means to get in his own way. This is someone who truly has the capabilities to be a world champion but because he lacks concentration, be it for the nightlife or the dancing or as we've seen lately the ladies. If Angelico could only focus on the task at hand, we'd be seeing a lot more of the man who gave Gunther his toughest match to date.

Wade: I am a big Angelico fan. He is someone who is capable of some dazzling feats in that ring. Unfortunately as Drake says he can lack focus and what worries me is that the presence of Katherine Darcy may distract him from the task at hand.

Entrant #23 - Angelico

Angelico rushes down to the ring to cheers from the crowd. On entering the ring, Angelico rolls to avoid a chair shot by Nathan Cruz before he dropkicks the chair into Cruz's face. Cruz is stunned by this as the chair goes flying and with Nathan stunned, Angelico follows up with a bicycle kick to the jaw of Nathan Cruz which sends him toppling over the ropes and out to the floor! Nathan Cruz has been eliminated! The crowd explodes into cheers as a horrified Katherine Darcy can only watch on at ringside as her boyfriend attempts to regain himself. Angelico meanwhile pairs up with Man Like Dereiss and the duo land a series of double dropkicks on Shigehiro Irie putting down the big man. From here both Angelico and Dereiss would begin to fight between the pair of them before being joined in this back and forth battle by Cara Noir. As this trio would engage, Ashton Smith would begin trading strikes with Pete Dunne. Seven meanwhile seemed to be taking this moment as an opportunity to roll out to the floor in an attempt to regroup while the countdown for the next participant begins. 5....4....3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Entering the ring at number 24.. Michael Oku!

John: Perhaps the biggest surprise in a pleasant way from the European title tournament. The rise of Michael Oku so far has been great to watch. As since that tournament Michael Oku has been unbeaten.

Wade: The European tournament definitely introduced us to a new wave of talent. Angelico, Gunther, Cara Noir and Michael Oku all of whom have quickly established themselves as part of this new era of WWE UK. Oku for his part is a skilled grappler and technician with a great submission game. As we saw earlier with Charlie Dempsey, while this style may not be best suited to things. Oku is a talented prospect who can definitely hold his own.

Drake: Oku has long been in my eyes one of the most under appreciated talents in UK wrestling. I am thrilled to see him getting these opportunities to show further what he is capable of. Let's see how he fares against these men.

Entrant #24 - Michael Oku

The crowd cheers as Michael Oku rushes down to the ring, quickly entering the ring Michael Oku quickly joins the three way battle between Cara Noir, Man Like Dereiss and Angelico. During these skirmishes we see Michael Oku hit a big dragon screw leg whip on Cara Noir before he follows up with a leaping knee strike as Noir tries to get back up. Dereiss meanwhile manages to catch a hurricanrana attempt from Angelico before driving him into the mat with a powerbomb. At the same time Pete Dunne managed to trap Ashton Smith in a Koji Clutch on the canvas when both men are crushed with a big senton splash by Shigehiro Irie. Slowly climbing to his feet, Irie would then meet a charging Dereiss with a pop up powerbomb. While Trent Seven watched on from ringside, Michael Oku faced off with Irie and surprisingly showed himself willing to trade strikes with Irie. Unfortunately for Irie an attempt at a running boot would backfire as Oku managed to take him down to the mat before clamping on a single leg crab. Irie would try and crawl out of the hold to no avail but eventually he'd roll onto his back and kick Oku backwards. 5....4.....3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Now introducing participant number 25. Representing Team White Wolf, he is Carlos Romo!

John: We've already seen A-Kid this evening who entered in a solid showing. Now it is time to see how his partner Carlos Romo fares.

Drake: I'll be curious to see this. We've not seen much of Carlos Romo in singles action, so it'll be good to see how he performs here.

Wade: I think what bodes well for Romo is the fact that The Foreign Legion have been eliminated already and his partner also for that matter. This means that Romo can be fully focused on the task at hand.

Entrant #25 - Carlos Romo

After walking out onto the stage with Mariah May, Carlos Romo nods his head at Mariah before sprinting down to the ring. Leaping onto the apron, Carlos Romo springs into the ring with a cutter on Shigehiro Irie. This wobbles Irie and allows Michael Oku to catch the big Japanese talent with a single knee face buster. Joined by Romo, Dereiss, Noir and Angelico we finally see Irie lifted over the ropes and out to the floor. Shigehiro Irie has been eliminated! Romo quickly follows up on Ashton Smith as he hits a running single leg dropkick. But as Romo gets to his feet he's met with a big forearm by Pete Dunne. A bitter end attempt however is counted as Romo manages to land on his feet before kicking Dunne to the feet. From here Romo follows up with a double foot stomp to the back of Dunne's head driving him into the canvas. Unfortunately for Romo as he began to get to his feet, Ashton Smith would gain some retribution as he landed a big boot to Romo's jaw. Smith would then follow up by tossing Romo out onto the apron, However Smith on charging Romo would be met with a kick to the mouth. Romo then looked to spring into the ring only to have Seven snatch his ankles while in the air before snatching him down to the floor. Carlos Romo has been eliminated! 5...4....3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number 26... Erm.. It's.. El Mago Brillante!

John: Well... This is different. I'd usually sit here and give you some background or a means of introduction for a talent but I genuinely have nothing.

Drake: I suppose that's the beauty of a rumble. You never know who will show up. But it's definitely strange to know this little.

Wade: In my time as a WWE executive I have never heard this name. I guess we'll see what they can do first hand.

Entrant #26 - El Mago Brillante!

The masked El Mago Brillante walks out from the back wearing a full mask and also a full purple and blue bodysuit. Several faces in the ring seem a bit caught off guard as we also note that El Mago is notably smaller than many of the competitors. Entering the ring, El Mago quickly hits Man Like Dereiss with a big tilt a whirl head scissors. As Dereiss stumbles and scrambles to a knee he is met with a shining wizard to the jaw! Looking to grab this new entrant Cara Noir attempts to press El Mago over his shoulders only for El Mago to counter with a destroyer spiking Noir to the canvas. Angelico attempts a bicycle knee strike on El Mago who side steps this strike leading to Angelico hitting Ashton Smith. This then allows El Mago to hit Angelico with a leaping reverse STO. Meanwhile at ringside Pete Dunne has finally seen his chance and is in hot pursuit of Trent Seven. Rolling into the ring, Seven seems to be trying to lull in Pete Dunne but he backs up into Michael Oku. Seven begs off seemingly hoping to make a deal with Oku but Michael shakes his head before shoving Seven back into the clutches of Pete Dunne. Dunne hits a double leg on Seven and begins raining down punches and elbows as the next countdown begins. 5...4...3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number 27. He is a former WWE UK Champion. Representing British Strong Style, He is Tyler Bate!

John: Talk about luck of the draw. Not just for Tyler Bate to be this late in the field but also for Trent Seven to have Bate out here in his time of need.

Drake: It will forever bother me that Bate and Millie McKenzie for that matter have aligned themselves with Trent Seven. Talk about selling your soul.

Wade: I can't believe you are being so dismissive and rude to Trent Seven. Loyalty is a big thing in this business and that can't be overlooked with what Seven has done for both Bate and McKenzie.

Entrant #27 - Tyler Bate

Unsurprisingly Tyler Bate rushes down to the ring and he comes face to face with his old rival Pete Dunne. Quickly Dunne and Bate begin trading punches until Seven low blows Dunne. This allows Bate to follow up with a running rolling kick to the jaw of Dunne putting him down on the canvas. Man Like Dereiss attempts to take the fight to British Strong Style, but a big punch by Bate allows Seven to spike him with a pile driver before he tosses Dereiss out of the ring. Man Like Dereiss has been eliminated! The crowd boos as British Strong Style clearly have a game plan in mind when they turn their attention to Angelico. Angelico similar to Dereiss looks to combat the numbers game but Seven again proves himself to be one of the dirtiest players in the game as he rakes Angelico's eyes allowing Bate to plant Angelico with a Tyler Driver. With Angelico laid out, Seven picks him up before he tosses Angelico out of the ring! Angelico has been eliminated! Again the audience boos as this time it seems that El Mago is the target of British Strong Style when the countdown begins once more. 5...4...3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing number 28... Ridge Holland!

John: This is a dangerous man to be coming in this late. I hate to wonder this kind of thing, but part of me wouldn't be surprised if our new WWE UK Champion had a part in getting this number for his hired gun.

Wade: I can't believe you would accuse our champion and sovereign lord of this. I have no doubt Holland earned his shot fair and square.

Drake: Honestly I wouldn't put it past Spike either. What worries me also, is the fact that a deal was seemingly brokered between Holland and British Strong Style.

Entrant #28 - Ridge Holland

The crowd boos as Holland charges down to the ring and on hitting the ring, Ridge lands a big Rugby tackle on Ashton Smith. Bate and Seven meanwhile attempt to hit a spike pile driver on El Mago when Pete Dunne attacks Trent Seven once more. This causes Bate to hop down off of the ropes and he and Dunne begin fighting once more. These two former foes and champions find themselves soon up against the rope as Trent Seven watches on from a distance. Gradually we see both Dunne and Bate's momentum slowly take them over the top rope before both men fall out to the floor. Pete Dunne has been eliminated! Tyler Bate has been eliminated! The crowd boos at seeing a smirking Trent remain in the ring while Ridge Holland lays out both Cara Noir and Michael Oku with a big double clothesline. Seven however is spun around by El Mago who starts firing off punches, elbows and kicks at him backing Trent up on the ropes until Seven lands a knee to the midsection. Holland then snatches El Mago from behind and this allows Trent to pull at Mago's mask removing it to reveal... TEGAN NOX! 5....4....3....2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing participant number 29.. Charles Crowley.

John: Not to take away from the entrance of Charles Crowley but.. El Mago was Tegan Nox. I can't believe what I've just seen!

Drake: I knew Nox had her career greatly impacted by Wade over here but I did not expect her to go this far to get another title match.

Wade: True to form Tegan Nox makes another bad decision without thinking things through. But let's not take away from the entrance of Charles Crowley. Who in my opinion is one of the most charismatic superstars that the UK wrestling scene has ever hosted.

Entrant #29 - Charles Crowley

While Charles Crowley begins his flashy, theatrical entrance on the stage. In the ring the cameras show Tegan Nox manage to land a low blow on Ridge Holland allowing her to escape his clutches. Ducking under a clothesline from Trent, Nox is then able to run off the ropes and blast Seven with a shining wizard to the jaw. Seven goes down but Nox is quickly blindsided by Crowley. Seemingly envious of Nox taking his luster, Crowley berates Tegan that this is his show and not hers. Crowley follows up by hoisting Nox in the air before hitting a spinning scoop slam on her. The vain showman then hits a standing dropkick on Cara Noir before he begins to dance in an over the top fashion. Snatching Nox by the hair, Crowley is surprised when Nox clamps him in a testicular claw. Crowley screams in pain as he jumps up and down and this allows Nox to then drive Crowley into the canvas with a choke slam. Wasting little time, Tegan then follows up by tossing Crowley out of the ring. Charles Crowley has been eliminated! The crowd cheers loudly for Nox until she is blasted with a rugby tackle by Ridge Holland. 5...4...3...2...1

Andy Shepherd: Introducing the man who drew number 30.... Harry Smith!

John: Well things just got very interesting with our final entrant. The son of the legendary British Bulldog, Harry Smith has returned to the WWE.

Drake: A former tag team champion who has run roughshod over Japan since his last WWE Run. I am looking forward to seeing what Harry Smith can do.

Wade: I consider Harry a close personal friend. It is amazing to see him back. The odds makers may want to add a new favorite to the mix with this.

Entrant #30 - Harry Smith

Harry Smith walks out from the back to a loud cheer from the crowd, As Smith does so we see an opportunistic Trent Seven toss the prone Tegan Nox out of the ring. Tegan Nox has been eliminated! Once Harry is in the ring our field sits at Ashton Smith, Trent Seven, Cara Noir, Michael Oku, Ridge Holland and Harry Smith for our final six. Everyone soon pairs off with Ashton Smith battling Michael Oku, Trent Seven facing Cara Noir and the two bruisers Ridge Holland and Harry Smith colliding. Following some back and forth action from all sides we'd see Harry Smith manage to hit a big northern lights suplex on Holland. This would rattle Holland but any momentum built by Smith was cut short thanks to a chop block by Seven. While Seven ate a Swan Woo kick for his trouble from Cara Noir, Ridge Holland was able in turn to plant Smith with a big spine buster. Having wobbled Trent Seven, Cara Noir meanwhile would fire off several kicks to Seven's chest while in the background Ashton Smith managed to corner Oku and started trying to lift his legs up in the air and force them over the ropes.

Stunning Seven with a big roundhouse kick, Cara Noir then looked to hit a brainbuster on Trent when Seven went directly for Noir's eyes. This allowed Seven to go behind Noir and hoist him on his shoulders before he'd throw him over the top rope from a burning hammer position. Noir would hit the ring apron with a thud before falling to the floor! Cara Noir has been eliminated! The crowd erupts into boos as Seven and Holland continue their union as they look to take the fight to Harry Smith. Despite Smith throwing some heavy strikes it doesn't take long for the numbers to overwhelm him. This is until however both Oku and Smith begin to stop fighting. Seemingly growing tired of Seven's antics and the numbers game both Oku and Smith start to attack Ridge Holland. The crowd cheers as Holland tries to fight off the numbers. Seven meanwhile finds himself confronted by Harry Smith who drops Seven on his head with a saito suplex. With Seven stunned, Harry Smith turns his attention also to Ridge Holland who has been stunned with a double superkick by Oku and Smith.

Lifting Holland in the air, Smith looks to attempt a running powerslam but Holland drops down behind Smith and then hits a big rugby tackle. Smith goes over the ropes but manages to find his feet on the apron. Holland snatches Smith by the throat but he is quickly pulled over the ropes and out onto the apron by Smith. The two titans go back and forth with one another while in the ring both Oku and Smith go back to fighting between themselves. On the apron Holland lands a headbutt on Smith before he tries for Northern Grit but Harry blocks it before he picks up Holland in a slam position and slams Holland off the apron and to the floor! Ridge Holland has been eliminated! As Smith turns to get back into the ring however he is met with a dropkick by Oku which sends him falling to the floor! Harry Smith has been eliminated! Oku and Smith are both showing signs of fatigue as they come face to face once more. Special mention is made of Smith who entered this match at number 12 and has still been here over half an hour later. Both Smith and Oku go back and forth with one another trading punches in the ring as the crowd cheers.

Slowly things escalate between the two with Smith coming close to tossing Oku from the ring before Oku in turn followed suit. Showing themselves to be near equals we'd see grappling reversals and striking exchanges aplenty as the action continued. An Ash Cloud attempt from Smith would be blocked before Oku hit the ropes. At the same time Smith seemingly had the same idea and the pair would run off before laying each other out with a clothesline. Continuing to rally behind both men with dueling chants we'd see both Oku and Smith climb to their feet. However before any further brawl could be had Smith would be shoved from behind by Seven sending him and Oku clashing heads with one another before Seven hit Smith with a lariat. Stunned from this clash of heads, a groggy Oku would then turn into a burning hammer from Seven who wasted little time in then tossing Oku out of the ring! Michael Oku has been eliminated! The crowd boos loudly as a smug Trent Seven points to his head before he picks up Ashton Smith. Looking to end things, Seven hoisted Smith onto his shoulders for a Burning Hammer. Much to Seven's surprise however Smith would give him a taste of his own medicine and go for Seven's eyes. This allows Smith to drop behind Seven before hitting a big running single leg dropkick to the jaw of Seven sending him tumbling over the ropes and to the floor! Trent Seven has been eliminated!

Andy Shepherd: And the winner of the UK Rumble... ASHTON SMITH!

The crowd explodes into cheers as the announcement is made. Completely exhausted from the battle he has just withstood, Ashton Smith drops to his hands and knees in the ring as referee Thomas Scarborough checks on him. At ringside a horrified Trent Seven sits against the barricade in shock at his defeat. Meanwhile in the ring Ashton Smith with help from the official pulls himself to his feet before getting his arm raised in victory. With that the show comes to a close with Ashton Smith as the winner of our Men's UK Rumble!

(C)WORLDWRESTLINGENTERTAINMENT

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