WSW: World Series Wrestling
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Ignition: Episode 200 |
|
Promotion: World Series Wrestling |
Date: July 18, 2019 |
City: Atlanta, GA |
Venue: State Farm Arena |
Attendance: 7,200 |
The 7/18 episode of Ignition began with a lengthy highlight package of SummerFest, set to the official theme of the show – Zeze by Kodak Black.
The package focuses on the sold-out crowd, the largest in WSW history, along with their tremendous reactions all night. We see:
- The Hart Foundation retain the World Tag Team Titles in Escalera de la Muerte against the Lucha Brothers. The crescendo of the highlight is Bret Hart’s involvement, including the triple Sharpshooter.
- Adam Cole retaining the Intercontinental Title against Ricochet – the superkick to the quebrada is shown three times. We see Cody challenge Cole following his victory.
- The Death Busters win the Number One Contenders Four Way.
- Tessa Blanchard retains the Women’s World Championship in a hard-hitting emotional bout against Kay Lee Ray.
- Jon Moxley defeat Will Ospreay in a brutal, bloody war that ended with both men shaking hands.
- Kenny Omega, embracing The Cleaner aspect of his personality, retained the World Championship over “The Assassin” Claudio Castagnoli – handing Castagnoli his first loss in over eight months.
Following the video package, the camera cut to the parking area of the State Farm Arena from “earlier today.” A sleek, black Escalade pulled into the underground parking area. A driver got out and opened the doors to reveal Black Arrow. Adam Cole, Dawson, and Wilder stepped out confidently.
Wearing a sharp, black leather jacket over an “Adam Gold Bay Bay” t-shirt, Adam Cole smugly grinned at the camera with the WSW Intercontinental Championship over his shoulder. He said:
Cole patted both men on the shoulders, and they nodded in approval. Dawson said:
Wilder said:
Cole smirked. The trio started walking and Cole added:
The camera cuts from Black Arrow straight to the parking lot on the opposite side of the arena.
A red, white, and blue trimmed Ford Raptor pulled into the lot. The truck came to a slow stop, and the driver-side door swung open to reveal Cody! Wearing a sharp navy-blue suit, his eyes scanned the arena, and he took in the moment with a deep breath.
The passenger door swung open, and Brandi Rhodes stepped out – her heels clicking on the pavement as she stood next to her husband. The camera panned as the backdoor opened, and Diamond Dallas Page emerged, dressed in jeans and a WSW t-shirt. DDP smiled, cracked his knuckles, and slapped Cody on the shoulder:
Another door opened, and walking out was none other than Dustin Rhodes!
Dustin walked next to the group and nodded to his little brother:
Cody nodded; his face was totally focused. DDP smiled and said:
Cody marched forward to the arena, flanked by Brandi, DDP, and Dustin.
The opening to Ignition 200 aired – highlighting some of the best moments in the show’s 200-episode history – set to The Outsiders by Eric Church.
Pyro exploded inside the State Farm Arena and the crowd of 7,200 went wild as the commentary trio of Mauro Ranallo, Chael Sonnen, and Paige Knight welcomed the audience to Ignition 200. They ran down the card:
- World Tag Team Titles: Death Busters vs. The Hart Foundation
- Elite 8 Tournament Finals: Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Alexander Hammerstone
- We hear from Kenny Omega
- Candice LeRae & Rachael Ellering vs. Ivelisse & Mercedes Martinez
- Debut of Dr. Britt Baker, DMD
- Intercontinental Championship: Cody vs. Adam Cole
The screen faded to a video package that started with a slow-motion shot of The Hart Foundation – Teddy Hart, Davey Boy Smith Jr., and Brian Pillman Jr. standing in the middle of a dimly lit ring, their silhouettes were outlined by flashing camera lights. The World Tag Team Titles rested proudly on the shoulders of Hart and Smith. Teddy’s voice is heard:
Rapid fire clips are shown of the Hart Foundation:
- Their debut in December 2018
- Beating the Young Bucks to win the World Tag Team Titles in London
- Teddy performing the Canadian Destroyer off the ladder on Pentagon at SummerFest
- Davey Boy powerslamming Fenix off the top of a ladder at SummerFest
- Brian Pillman Jr. advancing through the Elite 8 Tournament
Highlights of the Hart Foundation holding the titles high with Bret Hart at SummerFest is shown. Teddy’s voice is heard:
Brian Pillman’s voice is heard as an archived picture of The Hart Foundation from the 80s and 90s in PW Illustrated is shown:
The camera cut to the Hart Foundation speaking to the camera. Teddy said:
Davey Boy said:
Match One: WSW World Tag Team Championships – Death Busters vs. The Hart Foundation (c)
The first match of Ignition was a tag team match between the Death Busters and the Hart Foundation for the WSW World Tag Team Championships. The World Tag Team Champions wore battle scars from the ladder match at SummerFest; however, they came to the ring with their trademark confidence and swagger. Davey Boy had his ribs taped up. Chael Sonnen mentioned this:
The match started with Teddy Hart and Dawson feeling each other out. Collar and elbow tie ups led to mat-based grappling. Hart, still feeling the effects of the ladder match, struggled at first, but he used his quickness to escape a waist lock and hit a lightning-fast spinning head scissors takedown.
Dawson scrambled to his feet only to eat a dropkick! Feeding off the Atlanta crowd’s energy, the Champions showcased their signature fast-paced, high-impact style.
Davey Boy overpowered Dawson with a thunderous shoulder block. The two then exchanged stiff chops, with the crowd roaring “WOOO” after each one landed. Smith gained the advantage, and RIPPED Dawson down with a sick snap back suplex. Wilder entered the ring illegally and ATE a big boot for his troubles.
The Death Busters retreated to the floor, but Teddy Hart wouldn’t let them catch their breath...NAILING a Orihara Moonsault from the top rope to the floor!
The crowd belted out thunderous, “Hart Foundation” chants.
Dawson scrambled to his feet only to eat a dropkick! Feeding off the Atlanta crowd’s energy, the Champions showcased their signature fast-paced, high-impact style.
Davey Boy overpowered Dawson with a thunderous shoulder block. The two then exchanged stiff chops, with the crowd roaring “WOOO” after each one landed. Smith gained the advantage, and RIPPED Dawson down with a sick snap back suplex. Wilder entered the ring illegally and ATE a big boot for his troubles.
The Death Busters retreated to the floor, but Teddy Hart wouldn’t let them catch their breath...NAILING a Orihara Moonsault from the top rope to the floor!
The crowd belted out thunderous, “Hart Foundation” chants.
The tides turned as the action returned to the ring. During a rope running sequence, Wilder landed a knee to the small of Davey Boy’s back from the apron. As Dawson distracted the referee, Wilder snapped Smith’s neck over the top rope!
Dawson pounced, hitting a spinebuster and laying in heavy stomps to the taped ribs of Smith. The Death Busters isolated Smith in their corner, executing quick tags and precision double teams, showing they were a well-oiled machine.
The tape on Smith’s ribs were a magnet for the Death Busters. They went after the ribs like a moth to a flame – working them over with bear hugs, back breakers, and stiff knee strikes. Every time Smith tried to fight back, the Death Busters used smart, old school tactics:
- Wilder grabbed the tights on a roll up for 2
- Dawson used the ropes for leverage on an abdominal stretch, and they taunted Hart to draw the referee’s attention – allowing an illegal double team behind the ref’s back.
On commentary, Chael Sonnen noted:
Dawson trapped Smith in a grounded abdominal stretch, wrenching back on his ribs while barking at Hart:
The crowd rallied behind Davey Boy, chanting, “Hart Foundation!”
Davey Boy fought through the pain, digging at the mat and fighting his way to his feet. He landed sharp elbows to free himself. Dawson bounced off the ropes and charged.... but Davey Boy sent him flying with a high back body drop!
Davey Boy lunged for a desperation tag............
Wilder YANKED Hart off the apron at the last second!
Smith got drug back into enemy territory with a German suplex from Dawson!
The Death Busters continued their brutal isolation game, but eventually, Smith roared and countered a double team vertical suplex with a double Northern Lights Suplex onto both men! He crawled towards Hart....fingertips away........
Dawson grabbed his ankle at the last second.......
ENZIGURI!
Wilder grabbed the referee.......
Davey Boy made the tag!
Hart leapt over the ropes......NO!
The referee called off the tag and ordered Hart back to the apron! Wilder distracted the referee, and he never saw the tag made!
The crowd booed mercilessly as Dawson landed an elbow to the ribs and dragged Smith back to resume the assault.
Teddy paced the apron like a hungry tiger. He slapped the turnbuckle to fire up the crowd to get behind Davey Boy. Smith felt the energy...he reversed an Irish Whip and sent Wilder and Dawson crashing into each other. Davey Boy hit double lariats that sent the Death Busters twisting through the air on impact!
Davey Boy inched his way over....he crawled......
AND TAGGED IN TEDDY!
Hart entered to loud “Teddy, Teddy, Teddy” chants. He ran wild with strikes – hitting anything that moved. Hart took down Wilder with a springboard clothesline and planted Dawson with a snap DDT.
The Death Busters went to the floor once again, and Hart took to the sky.... ARABIAN MOONSAULT CONNECTED!
The crowd was on fire as Hart threw Wilder back inside and hit a slingshot Canadian Destoyer!
1....
2.....................
Kick Out!
Moving quickly, the Hart Foundation brought the crowd to its feet with the old school Hart Attack!
1....
2...............
Kick out!
Teddy tagged Davey Boy, and the Hart Foundation went for the kill. Davey Boy hoisted Wilder up into the electric chair, and Teddy went up top. They went for the Hart Destroyer.......
NO!
Dawson shoved Teddy off the ropes all the way to the floor at the last second!
Wilder dug his fingers into Smith’s eyes to escape of his shoulders and hit a backstabber!
Dawson climbed to the top and flew for a diving headbutt, but Davey Boy moved, and Dawson crashed and burned on the cerulean blue mat!
Davey Boy ducked a wild swing from Wilder and caught him with a back slide for 2! Wilder popped to his feet but walked right into a power slam from Smith for another near fall!
Dawson and Davey Boy then met in the center of the ring for a strike exchange. Forearms transitioned to chops that popped like gunfire. Eventually they had a lariat battle with neither man budging an inch. Dawson kicked the ribs for a short cut. He hit the robes for momentum.... but BOTH
men hit simultaneous clotheslines!
Everyone was down!
“This Is Awesome” sounded out inside the State Farm Arena!
Dawson pounced, hitting a spinebuster and laying in heavy stomps to the taped ribs of Smith. The Death Busters isolated Smith in their corner, executing quick tags and precision double teams, showing they were a well-oiled machine.
The tape on Smith’s ribs were a magnet for the Death Busters. They went after the ribs like a moth to a flame – working them over with bear hugs, back breakers, and stiff knee strikes. Every time Smith tried to fight back, the Death Busters used smart, old school tactics:
- Wilder grabbed the tights on a roll up for 2
- Dawson used the ropes for leverage on an abdominal stretch, and they taunted Hart to draw the referee’s attention – allowing an illegal double team behind the ref’s back.
On commentary, Chael Sonnen noted:
Dawson trapped Smith in a grounded abdominal stretch, wrenching back on his ribs while barking at Hart:
The crowd rallied behind Davey Boy, chanting, “Hart Foundation!”
Davey Boy fought through the pain, digging at the mat and fighting his way to his feet. He landed sharp elbows to free himself. Dawson bounced off the ropes and charged.... but Davey Boy sent him flying with a high back body drop!
Davey Boy lunged for a desperation tag............
Wilder YANKED Hart off the apron at the last second!
Smith got drug back into enemy territory with a German suplex from Dawson!
The Death Busters continued their brutal isolation game, but eventually, Smith roared and countered a double team vertical suplex with a double Northern Lights Suplex onto both men! He crawled towards Hart....fingertips away........
Dawson grabbed his ankle at the last second.......
ENZIGURI!
Wilder grabbed the referee.......
Davey Boy made the tag!
Hart leapt over the ropes......NO!
The referee called off the tag and ordered Hart back to the apron! Wilder distracted the referee, and he never saw the tag made!
The crowd booed mercilessly as Dawson landed an elbow to the ribs and dragged Smith back to resume the assault.
Teddy paced the apron like a hungry tiger. He slapped the turnbuckle to fire up the crowd to get behind Davey Boy. Smith felt the energy...he reversed an Irish Whip and sent Wilder and Dawson crashing into each other. Davey Boy hit double lariats that sent the Death Busters twisting through the air on impact!
Davey Boy inched his way over....he crawled......
AND TAGGED IN TEDDY!
Hart entered to loud “Teddy, Teddy, Teddy” chants. He ran wild with strikes – hitting anything that moved. Hart took down Wilder with a springboard clothesline and planted Dawson with a snap DDT.
The Death Busters went to the floor once again, and Hart took to the sky.... ARABIAN MOONSAULT CONNECTED!
The crowd was on fire as Hart threw Wilder back inside and hit a slingshot Canadian Destoyer!
1....
2.....................
Kick Out!
Moving quickly, the Hart Foundation brought the crowd to its feet with the old school Hart Attack!
1....
2...............
Kick out!
Teddy tagged Davey Boy, and the Hart Foundation went for the kill. Davey Boy hoisted Wilder up into the electric chair, and Teddy went up top. They went for the Hart Destroyer.......
NO!
Dawson shoved Teddy off the ropes all the way to the floor at the last second!
Wilder dug his fingers into Smith’s eyes to escape of his shoulders and hit a backstabber!
Dawson climbed to the top and flew for a diving headbutt, but Davey Boy moved, and Dawson crashed and burned on the cerulean blue mat!
Davey Boy ducked a wild swing from Wilder and caught him with a back slide for 2! Wilder popped to his feet but walked right into a power slam from Smith for another near fall!
Dawson and Davey Boy then met in the center of the ring for a strike exchange. Forearms transitioned to chops that popped like gunfire. Eventually they had a lariat battle with neither man budging an inch. Dawson kicked the ribs for a short cut. He hit the robes for momentum.... but BOTH
men hit simultaneous clotheslines!
Everyone was down!
“This Is Awesome” sounded out inside the State Farm Arena!
All four men eventually got back into the ring and squared off for a brief second....before ripping into each other in a wild brawl! Both teams threw bombs as the referee scrambled to regain order.
Davey Boy and Wilder brawled out to the apron with Davey Boy hitting back suplex on the apron!
Inside the ring, Dawson and Teddy Hart went at it. Dawson scored a shocking 2 count off a small package on a rope running sequence. Quick as a cat, Dawson got waist control....
German Suplex....he kept his grip......
Another German Suplex.....he kept his grip....
Release German --- NO! Teddy flipped over in mid air and landed on his feet!
He charged, but Dawson folded him in half with a lariat. Dawson hit a rebound powerbomb!
1...
2...............................
Kick Out!
Dawson lifted Hart for the Brainbuster, but Davey Boy hopped in the ring...combination SPEAR/DDT by The Hart Foundation!
The Hart Foundation was feeling it...Hart Break (combination powerbomb/diving clothesline)!
1.
2........................................
WILDER DOVE IN AND BROKE UP THE PIN!
“FIGHT FOREVER” chants rang out!
Mauro Ranallo exclaimed:
All four men went at it again! Davey Boy lifted Wilder for a running powerslam, but Wilder hit a punch to the injured ribs of Davey Boy to escape. Wilder threw Davey Boy through the turnbuckles – shoulder first into the ring post! On the apron Wilder relentlessly went after the injured ribs with stomps! On commentary, Paige Knight said:
Inside the ring, Hart and Dawson threw bombs at each other until Dawson raked the eyes and took Hart down with a Stun Gun.
With Smith gasping in pain on the apron, the Death Busters took advantage........
SPIKE PILEDRIVER ON THE APRON!
The crowd gasped as Smith collapsed motionless on the floor!
This left Teddy Hart against both Death Busters. Hart looked around the arena – loud “Teddy, Teddy, Teddy” chants rang out. Teddy Hart motioned the Death Busters to BRING IT ON! He yelled:
Teddy whipped the crowd into a frenzy, fighting one on two. He countered a double-team with a handspring cutter onto both men! He followed with a combination bulldog/lariat! Mauro Ranallo exclaimed:
Teddy went up top. He knew the numbers game would be too much. He laid both Dawson and Wilder next to each other and went for the home run shot......
SHOOTING STAR PRESS.....................
THE DEATH BUSTERS GOT THE KNEES UP!
TEDDY HART RECOILED IN PAIN FROM THE IMPACT!
THE DEATH BUSTERS STRUCK LIKE A RATTLESNAKE!
FALL OF THE AXE (fka Shatter Machine)!
1.....
2.........................................................
3..........................................................................................
Davey Boy and Wilder brawled out to the apron with Davey Boy hitting back suplex on the apron!
Inside the ring, Dawson and Teddy Hart went at it. Dawson scored a shocking 2 count off a small package on a rope running sequence. Quick as a cat, Dawson got waist control....
German Suplex....he kept his grip......
Another German Suplex.....he kept his grip....
Release German --- NO! Teddy flipped over in mid air and landed on his feet!
He charged, but Dawson folded him in half with a lariat. Dawson hit a rebound powerbomb!
1...
2...............................
Kick Out!
Dawson lifted Hart for the Brainbuster, but Davey Boy hopped in the ring...combination SPEAR/DDT by The Hart Foundation!
The Hart Foundation was feeling it...Hart Break (combination powerbomb/diving clothesline)!
1.
2........................................
WILDER DOVE IN AND BROKE UP THE PIN!
“FIGHT FOREVER” chants rang out!
Mauro Ranallo exclaimed:
All four men went at it again! Davey Boy lifted Wilder for a running powerslam, but Wilder hit a punch to the injured ribs of Davey Boy to escape. Wilder threw Davey Boy through the turnbuckles – shoulder first into the ring post! On the apron Wilder relentlessly went after the injured ribs with stomps! On commentary, Paige Knight said:
Inside the ring, Hart and Dawson threw bombs at each other until Dawson raked the eyes and took Hart down with a Stun Gun.
With Smith gasping in pain on the apron, the Death Busters took advantage........
SPIKE PILEDRIVER ON THE APRON!
The crowd gasped as Smith collapsed motionless on the floor!
This left Teddy Hart against both Death Busters. Hart looked around the arena – loud “Teddy, Teddy, Teddy” chants rang out. Teddy Hart motioned the Death Busters to BRING IT ON! He yelled:
Teddy whipped the crowd into a frenzy, fighting one on two. He countered a double-team with a handspring cutter onto both men! He followed with a combination bulldog/lariat! Mauro Ranallo exclaimed:
Teddy went up top. He knew the numbers game would be too much. He laid both Dawson and Wilder next to each other and went for the home run shot......
SHOOTING STAR PRESS.....................
THE DEATH BUSTERS GOT THE KNEES UP!
TEDDY HART RECOILED IN PAIN FROM THE IMPACT!
THE DEATH BUSTERS STRUCK LIKE A RATTLESNAKE!
FALL OF THE AXE (fka Shatter Machine)!
1.....
2.........................................................
3..........................................................................................
Winners and NEW WSW World Tag Team Champions: Death Busters (28:10)
What a match. Phenomenal effort by both teams. This match went long and was a mix of old school tag team wrestling with the modern style playing out over the last 10 minutes. The heat segment maybe was too long, and we lost the crowd for a few minutes, they bit on the false tag spot, and they were with the match the rest of the way. We really tried to tell the story of Davey Boy’s ribs being the equalizer, with the Death Busters attacking them like a vulture to neutralize his power. Teddy looked phenomenal at the end fighting one on two.
We went for the shock value here with the title change, but the thought process was simple. The Hart Foundation just went through hell five nights ago, and the Death Busters were fresher and less worn down. Pro wrestling audiences are accustomed to long feuds and builds to title changes; however, every now and then we want to remind them this is a fight. Anything can happen when a match goes to the ring, and 3 seconds is all you need. Death Busters have been a top team since their arrival, and now they are back on top as champions.
We went for the shock value here with the title change, but the thought process was simple. The Hart Foundation just went through hell five nights ago, and the Death Busters were fresher and less worn down. Pro wrestling audiences are accustomed to long feuds and builds to title changes; however, every now and then we want to remind them this is a fight. Anything can happen when a match goes to the ring, and 3 seconds is all you need. Death Busters have been a top team since their arrival, and now they are back on top as champions.
The State Farm arena was in absolute shock, as the referee’s hand hit the mat for the third time. The Death Busters had just ended the reign of The Hart Foundation and became World Tag Team Champions for the second time!
Dawson and Wilder rolled off Hart, breathing heavily. Their expressions shifted to cocky satisfaction as they clutched the WSW World Tag Team Titles.
The camera panned to the devastated faces of The Hart Foundation – Smith barely stirred on the outside; Hart was motionless on the apron.
The Death Busters stood tall and raised their gold high above their heads as boos rained down.
Dawson barked at the camera:
With a trembling voice, Mauro Ranallo called it:
Dawson and Wilder rolled off Hart, breathing heavily. Their expressions shifted to cocky satisfaction as they clutched the WSW World Tag Team Titles.
The camera panned to the devastated faces of The Hart Foundation – Smith barely stirred on the outside; Hart was motionless on the apron.
The Death Busters stood tall and raised their gold high above their heads as boos rained down.
Dawson barked at the camera:
With a trembling voice, Mauro Ranallo called it:
A promo aired for the Grand Prix:
A time-lapse of arenas filling with fans is shown as an ominous drumbeat echoed. Mauro Ranallo’s voice narrated the piece:
The beat intensified as we see rapid-fire clips of past Grand Prix action: Ethan Carter standing tall in 2016, Drew Galloway hoisting the trophy in 2017, and AJ Styles collapsing to his knees in triumph in 2018.
Clips are shown of the action: forearms colliding, bodies crashing to the mat, and fans of their feet.
The music shifted, becoming more urgent. We see sweeping aerial shots of the historic Cow Palace in San Francisco, bathed in a golden sunset.
Shots of Kenny Omega holding the WSW World Title high at SummerFest are shown. The screen cut to black with a deafening sound effect.
The music swelled with images of high-impact moves: Will Ospreay’s Storm Breaker, Adam Cole’s Last Shot, Cody hitting the Cross Rhodes, and AJ Styles delivering the Styles Clash.
The screen faded to black, and the Grand Prix logo appeared.
WSW Grand Prix 2019 – Begins August 15.
A promo from “After SummerFest” is shown. Will Ospreay sat slumped against a metal locker. His face was pale, streaked with dried blood, and his eyes were hollow. A massive ice pack rested on the back of his neck.
He stared ahead for a long moment. The silence was deafening.
He finally spoke, his voice raspy and broken:
Ospreay’s voice cracked, and his eyes glistened with unshed tears.
Ospreay dropped his head into hands for a moment. He slowly looked back up at the camera.
Ospreay pulled the ice pack away and tossed it on the ground to reveal a neck covered in bruises and welts.
Ospreay exhaled deeply, wiping the blood from his cheek.
Ospreay leaned his head back against the locker with a thud, closed his eyes, and breathed deeply as the camera faded out.
Ignition returned with Melissa Santos standing backstage next to the Death Busters – Dawson and Wilder – the new WSW World Tag Team Champions.
Both men were dripping with sweat, but their faces were lit with smug, confident grins.
The crowd can be heard booing from the arena. Dawson adjusted the title on his shoulder and smirked:
Wilder cackled and leaned into the mic:
Dawson said:
Wilder spoke:
Dawson and Wilder shared a look, slapped their newly won belts, and closed:
Match Two: Marti Belle vs. Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D.
The second match of Ignition was a singles match between Marti Belle and Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. Belle was already in the ring.
Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. made her debut in WSW, walking on stage in a white leather jacket, adorned with gold accents. Pyro exploded around her. The crowd reacted with intrigue.
Baker marched down the ramp, high-fiving fans. She looked into the ringside camera and said:
Marti Belle charged at the bell, hoping to catch the debuting Baker off guard. Baker sidestepped with ease and followed with a forearm to the back of Belle’s head. Baker landed a crisp arm drag, followed by another...and another!
Baker capped the trio of arm drags with a perfectly executed sling blade!
On commentary, Mauro Ranallo said:
Chael Sonnen followed:
Baker capped the trio of arm drags with a perfectly executed sling blade!
On commentary, Mauro Ranallo said:
Chael Sonnen followed:
Belle attempted to mount some offense, raking Baker’s eyes and landing some clubbing forearms. Belle whipped Baker into the ropes, telegraphed a back body drop, and Baker kicked her in the head. Baker landed a superkick to the knees to drop Marti Belle followed by a superkick that landed square on the chin!
Baker followed with a swinging neckbreaker.
Baker followed with a swinging neckbreaker.
Sensing the match was hers, Baker looked around the arena and said:
She removed a studded surgical glove from her tights. She wrenched back on Belle’s arms, and hooked a Mandible Claw...Paige Knight identified the move on commentary:
Belle flailed for a moment, but Baker applied more torque, and within seconds Belle tapped out furiously. The referee called for the bell!
She removed a studded surgical glove from her tights. She wrenched back on Belle’s arms, and hooked a Mandible Claw...Paige Knight identified the move on commentary:
Belle flailed for a moment, but Baker applied more torque, and within seconds Belle tapped out furiously. The referee called for the bell!
Dr. Britt Baker D.M.D. (2:20)
Quick squash match for Britt to debut her after several weeks of hype. Baker has “superstar” written all over her. She has a great look, and her backstory is one of a kind. We envision her being a big-time star, and we are treating her as such.
In ring, she still has a little way to go, so we kept this very simple. She is a good athlete, but this will very much be about getting the DMD character over, as the in-ring skill develops.
In ring, she still has a little way to go, so we kept this very simple. She is a good athlete, but this will very much be about getting the DMD character over, as the in-ring skill develops.
Todd Keneley entered the ring, mic in hand, to interview Baker.
Baker took a moment to gather herself before she spoke:
A slight, “DMD” chant started.
Baker’s music hit, and the crowd cheered her. Baker slapped hands with fans at ringside as Mauro Ranallo said:
Baker took a moment to gather herself before she spoke:
A slight, “DMD” chant started.
Baker’s music hit, and the crowd cheered her. Baker slapped hands with fans at ringside as Mauro Ranallo said:
Ignition returned from commercial with Bodak Yellow by Cardi B hitting the State Farm Arena, signaling the arrival of WSW Women’s World Champion Tessa Blanchard.
The crowd instant reacted with boos as Blanchard walked on stage, flanked by Tenille Dashwood and Nixon Newell. The WSW Women’s World Title sat on Blanchard’s shoulder. All three members of Diamond were decked out in designer outfits. Blanchard stood on top of the ramp, kissed the title belt, and held it high overhead. On commentary, Mauro Ranallo said:
Paige Knight responded:
The trio stepped into the ring – Tenille held the ropes open for Tessa. Blanchard grabbed a microphone and soaked in the boos.
Suddenly, the music of Kay Lee hit!
The crowd came alive with cheers as KLR stepped on stage with a determined glare. She marched down the ramp. Mauro Ranallo noted:
KLR stepped into the ring and went toe-to-toe with Blanchard. The World Champion adjusted the belt on her shoulder and smirked. KLR spoke:
The crowd cheered as the words dripped like venom from the lips of Kay Lee Ray. Tessa’s eyes narrowed, and Dashwood and Newell moved closer. KLR continued:
Blanchard chuckled and raised her mic:
Before KLR could respond, the music of Io Shirai hit!
Shirai walked down the ramp with purpose. Chael Sonnen said:
Shirai grabbed a microphone and in broken English said:
Io Shirai pointed directly at the World Title. The crowed chanted “Io, Io, Io.” Blanchard looked at Kay Lee Ray on one side and Io Shirai on the other. She said:
Tessa unhooked the title from her shoulder and raised it between Io and KLR.
Blanchard dropped the microphone and exited the ring. Dashwood and Newell followed her up the ramp, clapping mockingly.
In the ring, Shirai and KLR remained. They stared at Blanchard and the gleaming WSW Women’s World Championship...then they stared at each other.
On commentary, Ranallo said:
A video recap of the Elite 8 Tournament aired set to Forsaken by Bart Stoop.
We see flash cuts of all eight entrants into the tournament: Jungle Boy, Brian Pillman Jr., Myron Reed, Ace Austin, Lee Johnson, Sammy Guevara, Alan Angels, and Alexander Hammerstone. Muaro Ranallo’s voice narrated:
We see a montage of Brian Pillman Jr. raising his arm in victory after wins over Lee Johnson and Ace Austin. Talking head commentary from Chael Sonnen is provided:
Further commentary was provided by “Wrestling Historian” Mike Tenay:
A montage on Alexander Hammerstone airs. Ranallo’s narration says:
We see full frame shots of Hammerstone slamming Alan Angels with the Nightmare Pendulum and press slamming Jungle Boy from the ring to the floor.
Tenay says:
Sonnen said:
The camera flashes through highlights of the tournament, and Ranallo’s narration closes the piece:
The video package ends and cuts to scenes of Alexander Hammerstone cranking out a set of final, methodical push-ups on his locker room floor. He rises slowly, exhales hard, and clinches his fists. A knock is heard at the door, and a production runner leans in.
Hammerstone doesn’t respond – he just smirked. The camera lingered as he grabbed a black towel, put it around his neck, and began marching towards the entrance.
The camera cut to the interview area where Melissa Santos was standing by with Brian Pillman Jr. Pillman looked intense. Hair wet. The cast on his right arm was still there, a remnant from The Hart Foundation’s war with the Lucha Brothers.
Santos said:
Pillman was silent for a few seconds. When he spoke his voice was low. Calm.
Pillman looked up with his eyes burning. His voice grew with each line:
Match Three: Elite 8 Tournament Finals – Brian Pillman Jr. Vs. Alexander Hammerstone
The third match of Ignition was a singles match between Brian Pillman Jr. and Alexander Hammerstone in the finals of the Elite 8 Tournament.
The Elite 8 Trophy gleamed under the bright lights of the State Farm Arena at ringside, standing tall as a symbol of opportunity. The crowd was firmly behind Brian Pillman Jr., chants “Brian, Brian, Brian” sounding out as he made his entrance.
Alexander Hammerstone’s music hit, and the cocky, sculpted powerhouse strode out on stage. He sauntered down the ramp, but the match began with an explosion as Pillman didn’t wait to take the fight to the larger man...
TOPE SUICIDA!
Pillman BLASTED Hammerstone before he could even enter the ring!
Pillman brought the fight to Hammerstone, brawling with heart at ringside. He fired chops, fists, and whipped Hammerstone into the steel guardrail.
Pillman made good on his promise to fight like a pit bull, as he bounced Hammerstone’s head off the steel steps before finally rolling him into the ring.
The bell sounded to officially start the match, and Hammerstone shook the cobwebs off from the early flurry. He swung with a massive lariat, but Pillman ducked and DROPPED Hammerstone with a picture-perfect superkick!
Cover!
1...
Kick Out!
The crowd rallied behind Pillman even more, as the youngest member of The Hart Foundation was FIRED UP, knowing the opportunity at hand.
Pillman stayed on the attack, whipping Hammerstone into the corner. He charged for a shotgun dropkick, but Hammerstone exploded out the corner and folded Pillman in half with a wicked lariat!
Hammerstone ripped Pillman off the canvas and bounced his head off the top turnbuckle a couple times before peppering him with a barrage of chops and closed fists. Hammerstone spiked Pillman with a spinebuster that caused the crowd to groan, and an expression of anger was worn on the face of Hammerstone.
Pillman BLASTED Hammerstone before he could even enter the ring!
Pillman brought the fight to Hammerstone, brawling with heart at ringside. He fired chops, fists, and whipped Hammerstone into the steel guardrail.
Pillman made good on his promise to fight like a pit bull, as he bounced Hammerstone’s head off the steel steps before finally rolling him into the ring.
The bell sounded to officially start the match, and Hammerstone shook the cobwebs off from the early flurry. He swung with a massive lariat, but Pillman ducked and DROPPED Hammerstone with a picture-perfect superkick!
Cover!
1...
Kick Out!
The crowd rallied behind Pillman even more, as the youngest member of The Hart Foundation was FIRED UP, knowing the opportunity at hand.
Pillman stayed on the attack, whipping Hammerstone into the corner. He charged for a shotgun dropkick, but Hammerstone exploded out the corner and folded Pillman in half with a wicked lariat!
Hammerstone ripped Pillman off the canvas and bounced his head off the top turnbuckle a couple times before peppering him with a barrage of chops and closed fists. Hammerstone spiked Pillman with a spinebuster that caused the crowd to groan, and an expression of anger was worn on the face of Hammerstone.
Hammerstone took over with his power. He dominated Pillman with gutwrench suplexes, a one-armed delayed vertical suplex (he flexed with the other arm), and a gorgeous dropkick that hit flush! He pressed Pillman overhead and dropped him with a powerslam. Chael Sonnen said:
All of this just yielded a 2 count, as Pillman refused to stay down. Hammerstone slapped on a tight side head lock on the mat and tried to squeeze everything out of Pillman.
The crowd rallied Pillman to his feet, and he escaped the grasp of Hammerstone with a series of sharp elbows. Pillman hit the ropes for momentum, but he ran directly into a kitchen sink knee!
Lifting Pillman onto his shoulders, Hammerstone screamed:
Rack Bomb............
NO!
Pillman countered with a crucifix bomb!
Cover!
1.....
2..........................
Kick Out!
Pillman nearly stole it!
All of this just yielded a 2 count, as Pillman refused to stay down. Hammerstone slapped on a tight side head lock on the mat and tried to squeeze everything out of Pillman.
The crowd rallied Pillman to his feet, and he escaped the grasp of Hammerstone with a series of sharp elbows. Pillman hit the ropes for momentum, but he ran directly into a kitchen sink knee!
Lifting Pillman onto his shoulders, Hammerstone screamed:
Rack Bomb............
NO!
Pillman countered with a crucifix bomb!
Cover!
1.....
2..........................
Kick Out!
Pillman nearly stole it!
Hammerstone scrambled to his feet, stunned as that was the closest, he had come to defeat in the Elite 8 Tournament. Pillman caught his second wind, ducking and dodging every swing from Hammerstone. Pillman took him down with a running crossbody.
Pillman whipped Hammerstone into the corner and followed with a big shotgun dropkick. Air Pillman connected! Followed by another!
Pillman was feeling it! He tried for the Dying Promise, but Hammerstone countered out. Pillman was quicker though, nailing an overhand chop and transitioning to a DDT that scored another 2 count!
Looking for anything to keep the big man down, Pillman ventured to the top. He pointed to the sky and flew.
Crossbody.........
HAMMERSTONE DESTROYED HIM WITH A MIDAIR PUMP KICK!
The impact was sick! Pillman went flying from the impact!
A gigantic lariat from Hammerstone folded Pillman in half. Hammerstone then flashed the throat-slit gesture and planted Pillman with the Nightmare Pendulum!
1....
2........
3............................
Pillman whipped Hammerstone into the corner and followed with a big shotgun dropkick. Air Pillman connected! Followed by another!
Pillman was feeling it! He tried for the Dying Promise, but Hammerstone countered out. Pillman was quicker though, nailing an overhand chop and transitioning to a DDT that scored another 2 count!
Looking for anything to keep the big man down, Pillman ventured to the top. He pointed to the sky and flew.
Crossbody.........
HAMMERSTONE DESTROYED HIM WITH A MIDAIR PUMP KICK!
The impact was sick! Pillman went flying from the impact!
A gigantic lariat from Hammerstone folded Pillman in half. Hammerstone then flashed the throat-slit gesture and planted Pillman with the Nightmare Pendulum!
1....
2........
3............................
Alexander Hammerstone (7:28)
From a match standpoint, this was fairly by the books – we tried to keep this really simple for both men. In many way this was an old school match from the 80’s/early 90s.
For both men, their charisma is better than their in-ring ability at this point. The crowd likes Pillman; he just needs to get smoother in the ring as a singles, and that was the purpose of having him in this tournament – to get him over as more than just the young boy of The Hart Foundation. Hammerstone is getting the push. He’s got a great look, and Pillman bumped like crazy for him. Hammerstone isn’t a finished product yet, but with his charisma and body, we have a chance to make him a heel in the vein of Scott Steiner.
For both men, their charisma is better than their in-ring ability at this point. The crowd likes Pillman; he just needs to get smoother in the ring as a singles, and that was the purpose of having him in this tournament – to get him over as more than just the young boy of The Hart Foundation. Hammerstone is getting the push. He’s got a great look, and Pillman bumped like crazy for him. Hammerstone isn’t a finished product yet, but with his charisma and body, we have a chance to make him a heel in the vein of Scott Steiner.
The camera focused on the wreckage – Brian Pillman Jr. was laid out. The Elite 8 Tournament trophy was brought into the ring and placed in front of Hammerstone as the referee raised his arm in victory. On commentary Mauro Ranallo said:
Todd Keneley entered the ring with a microphone as Hammerstone posed next to the trophy.
Hammerstone grabbed the microphone.
Hammerstone smirked and flexed beside the trophy before continuing:
Hammerstone spiked the microphone down and picked the trophy up. He held it overhead, and a loud, clear message had been sent.
Todd Keneley entered the ring with a microphone as Hammerstone posed next to the trophy.
Hammerstone grabbed the microphone.
Hammerstone smirked and flexed beside the trophy before continuing:
Hammerstone spiked the microphone down and picked the trophy up. He held it overhead, and a loud, clear message had been sent.
Kenny Omega came to the ring for a promo, and the crowd exploded at the sound of his music. The WSW World Champion stood on-stage as pyro exploded around him. He soaked in the moment before heading down the ramp to the ring.
Omega spoke:
He smiled as the crowd chanted “Kenny, Kenny Kenny!”
Omega continued:
Kenny laughed and continued:
The music of AJ Styles hit!
A huge cheer sounded out, AJ Styles stepped out with Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows by his side. The Club made their way to the ring!
The former Bullet Club stablemates all stood in the ring, and “This Is Awesome” chants sounded out. Styles and Omega looked around the arena at the reaction, and Styles spoke:
Kenny nodded his head and the two men went eye-to-eye, the tension was palpable.....................
The crowd EXPLODED as the sounds of AC/DC cranked in the State Farm Arena. Jon Moxley was HERE!
Wearing a hoodie, half-zipped, Moxley made his way through the crowd!
He climbed over the guardrail and stepped into the ring, standing between Omega and Styles. The three men stared each other down.
Thunderous chants of “HOLY SHIT” sounded out, as a full-blown Mexican standoff was taking place.
Moxley scanned both men, and then BANG.....
DEATH RIDER DDT ON OMEGA!
The fans EXPLODED!
Moxley struck the World Champion like a lightning bolt!
Moxley beat his chest, electricity pouring through his veins!
AJ Styles swung at Moxley, and the two men locked horns! Fists flew with fury! Styles and Moxley went at it!
Kenny Omega was stunned on the mat. Anderson and Gallows jumped in to bedlam as well, and then they noticed the prone World Champion on the mat. They approached him.......
Ricochet and Kota Ibushi came sprinting down the ramp too! Chaos erupted:
- Ricochet jumped over everyone, getting insane height on a springboard and nailing a clothesline on Gallows!
- Anderson hit a cutter on Ricochet
- Ibushi wiped out Anderson with a head kick
The World Champion picked himself up off the canvas and assessed the chaos. Omega sized up his target. He charged with a V-Trigger aimed at Moxley..........
MOXLEY AVOIDED IT AT THE LAST SECOND AND OMEGA SMASHED AJ STYLES WITH THE V-TRIGGER INSTEAD!
Styles went flying through the ropes to the floor!
Omega’s eyes got big as he realized what just happened. Styles grabbed his jaw on the floor and his eyes were filled with anger. Security flooded to the ring, as Moxley slid to the outside – laughing at the chaos he just created.
Moxley yelled a simple message that was heard loud and clear:
Mauro Ranallo went nuts on commentary:
A video recap aired, highlighting the feud between Candice LeRae & Rachael Ellering vs. Ivelisse & Mercedes Martinez.
- We see Candice LeRae cheat to beat Ivelisse in a singles match, and her subsequent attack backstage.
- LeRae recruited Ellering as her “insurance policy”
- Ivelisse brought in her “best friend” Mercedes Martinez to even up the odds.
- We see Martinez’s big impact on her debut – laying out LeRae with one punch.
- The battle lines have been drawn for the tag team match tonight.
Match Four: Candice LeRae & Rachael Ellering vs. Ivelisse & Mercedes Martinez
The fourth match of Ignition was a tag team match between Candice LeRae & Rachael Ellering and Ivelisse & Mercedes Martinez.
The crowd booed Candice LeRae and Rachael Ellering as they arrogantly strutted to the ring. LeRae soaked in the jeers and smirked at the crowd – clad in all black.
Ivelisse and Martinez wasted little time getting to the ring. They got down the ramp quickly and went toe to toe with LeRae and Ellering...they couldn’t wait to get their hands on them. The referee struggled to establish order and demanded both teams get to their respective corners.
As the bell rang, Ivelisse demanded to start with LeRae – her eyes locked in, and her voice was loud and clear:
LeRae hesitated. She crept towards the center...then immediately tagged in Ellering with a grin. The crowd groaned, and Paige Knight mocked her on commentary:
Martinez demanded to be tagged in, and the two powerhouses officially started the match. They circled like predators and then locked up hard. They exchanged forearms with heavy thuds. Either woman budged an inch. Martinez threw machine gun chops, but Ellering absorbed them all and came back with a powerful short-arm clothesline.
LeRae hesitated. She crept towards the center...then immediately tagged in Ellering with a grin. The crowd groaned, and Paige Knight mocked her on commentary:
Martinez demanded to be tagged in, and the two powerhouses officially started the match. They circled like predators and then locked up hard. They exchanged forearms with heavy thuds. Either woman budged an inch. Martinez threw machine gun chops, but Ellering absorbed them all and came back with a powerful short-arm clothesline.
After a brief exhange, Martinez tagged in Ivelisse. Ivelisse came in hot, throwing fast kicks and driving Ellering into the corner with elbows. LeRae shouted at the Ivelisse from the apron. Ivelisse took Ellering down with a dropkick and demanded that LeRae tag in.
She got her wish. LeRae tagged in.......
And immediately bailed to the outside.
Ivelisse could wait no longer. She gave chase, and LeRae scrambled back inside. Ivelisse followed, and LeRae landed a few cheap shots as Ivelisse slid inside. Ivelisse shook them off and fired back. She landed a spinning back kick and running knee. Ivelisse went for a tornado DDT, but Ellering interfered from the apron, grabbing Ivelisse’s hair and slinging her violently down to the canvas.
This provided the opening for LeRae. She took Ivelisse outside and whipped her into the steel guardrail.
Ellering and LeRae worked quick tags, targeting Ivelisse’s lower back with slams and double teams.
LeRae choked Ivelisse on the ropes and blew sarcastic kisses at the crowd.
Martinez paced the apron and rallied the fans.
LeRae and Ellering went for a double vertical suplex, but Ivelisse finally found an opening.... countering with a double DDT!
Ivelisse slowly crawled to her corner, and made the tag to Mercedes Martinez!
She got her wish. LeRae tagged in.......
And immediately bailed to the outside.
Ivelisse could wait no longer. She gave chase, and LeRae scrambled back inside. Ivelisse followed, and LeRae landed a few cheap shots as Ivelisse slid inside. Ivelisse shook them off and fired back. She landed a spinning back kick and running knee. Ivelisse went for a tornado DDT, but Ellering interfered from the apron, grabbing Ivelisse’s hair and slinging her violently down to the canvas.
This provided the opening for LeRae. She took Ivelisse outside and whipped her into the steel guardrail.
Ellering and LeRae worked quick tags, targeting Ivelisse’s lower back with slams and double teams.
LeRae choked Ivelisse on the ropes and blew sarcastic kisses at the crowd.
Martinez paced the apron and rallied the fans.
LeRae and Ellering went for a double vertical suplex, but Ivelisse finally found an opening.... countering with a double DDT!
Ivelisse slowly crawled to her corner, and made the tag to Mercedes Martinez!
Martinez charged in and ran over LeRae with two lariats. She dropped Ellering with a Saito Suplex.
Martinez hit an overhead belly to belly suplex on LeRae, throwing her halfway across the ring. This drew a big reaction from the crowd!
Martinez moved like a bowling ball made of butcher knives. She clotheslined Ellering over the top to the floor.
LeRae was staggered in the corner – Martinez CRUSHED her with a running corner boot followed by a cannonball!
Martinez hit a butterfly suplex for a 2 count!
With the crowd red hot, Martinez slapped the turnbuckle and tagged Ivelisse back in. Ivelisse climbed to the top and hit a flying crossbody onto LeRae.
Cover!
1...
2.....
Kick Out!
Ivelisse called for the Desert Eagle. She sized up LeRae.........
Ellering jumped to the apron and grabbed Ivelisse by the hair to cut her off! Ivelisse landed a stiff elbow to the jaw to escape her grasp.
Martinez took Ellering off the apron with a running boot, followed by a tope suicida!
Ivelisse exercised weeks of frustration on Candice LeRae, peppering her with palm strikes followed by a question mark kick!
On the outside, Martinez wasn’t done just yet. She charged........
AND SPEARED ELLERING THROUGH THE GUARDRAIL!
The crowd lost it.
Metal clanged. Bodies sprawled. The barricade was bent and broken.
The referee stuck her head through the ropes momentarily to check on the destruction.
Back inside, Ivelisse raised her fist to signal the end....
That’s when Candice struck.
With the referee’s back turned, LeRae dug into her boot and pulled out a pair of brass knuckles.
Ivelisse charged for the Desert Eagle.....
BAM!
A vicious shot from the brass knuckles connected flush against the temple!
Candice quickly stuck the knuckles down her top and made the cover, hooking both legs:
1.....
2..........................
3..................................................................
Martinez hit an overhead belly to belly suplex on LeRae, throwing her halfway across the ring. This drew a big reaction from the crowd!
Martinez moved like a bowling ball made of butcher knives. She clotheslined Ellering over the top to the floor.
LeRae was staggered in the corner – Martinez CRUSHED her with a running corner boot followed by a cannonball!
Martinez hit a butterfly suplex for a 2 count!
With the crowd red hot, Martinez slapped the turnbuckle and tagged Ivelisse back in. Ivelisse climbed to the top and hit a flying crossbody onto LeRae.
Cover!
1...
2.....
Kick Out!
Ivelisse called for the Desert Eagle. She sized up LeRae.........
Ellering jumped to the apron and grabbed Ivelisse by the hair to cut her off! Ivelisse landed a stiff elbow to the jaw to escape her grasp.
Martinez took Ellering off the apron with a running boot, followed by a tope suicida!
Ivelisse exercised weeks of frustration on Candice LeRae, peppering her with palm strikes followed by a question mark kick!
On the outside, Martinez wasn’t done just yet. She charged........
AND SPEARED ELLERING THROUGH THE GUARDRAIL!
The crowd lost it.
Metal clanged. Bodies sprawled. The barricade was bent and broken.
The referee stuck her head through the ropes momentarily to check on the destruction.
Back inside, Ivelisse raised her fist to signal the end....
That’s when Candice struck.
With the referee’s back turned, LeRae dug into her boot and pulled out a pair of brass knuckles.
Ivelisse charged for the Desert Eagle.....
BAM!
A vicious shot from the brass knuckles connected flush against the temple!
Candice quickly stuck the knuckles down her top and made the cover, hooking both legs:
1.....
2..........................
3..................................................................
Candice LeRae & Rachael Ellering (9:00)
Match was a bit sloppy in transitions, particularly in the early goings. Some timing issues between Ellering and Martinez on the power sequences. The crowd reacts big with to Martinez' strikes and suplexes.
The primary focus was to enhance Candice LeRae’s manipulative heel character, and Ivelisse plays the role of fiery underdog well. The finish came off clean despite a bit of mistiming with the ringside brawl. Brass knuckles spot landed effectively.
The primary focus was to enhance Candice LeRae’s manipulative heel character, and Ivelisse plays the role of fiery underdog well. The finish came off clean despite a bit of mistiming with the ringside brawl. Brass knuckles spot landed effectively.
The bell ran, and the crowd jeered in disgust.
Candice LeRae rolled out the ring with a devilish grin and stumbled backwards on the ramp. Martinez and Ellering were still tangled in a mess of bodies and metal. Ivelisse laid flat in the center of the ring, clutching her head – robbed again.
Mauro Ranallo summed it up on commentary:
Candice LeRae rolled out the ring with a devilish grin and stumbled backwards on the ramp. Martinez and Ellering were still tangled in a mess of bodies and metal. Ivelisse laid flat in the center of the ring, clutching her head – robbed again.
Mauro Ranallo summed it up on commentary:
A vignette aired featuring Salina de la Renta.
The screen faded in from black. Candlelight flickered. The hum of a pipe organ echoed faintly in the background. The silhouette of Salina de la Renta stepped into a wooden confessional booth inside an old cathedral.
She was dressed in black lace, her eyes sharp but unreadable. She crossed herself and then leaned toward the grated panel.
De la Renta paused. She closed her eyes, steadying her breath.
Black and white highlights of Castagnoli being defeated by Omega aired. The V-Triggers. The One Winged Angel.
Salina opened her eyes.
Cuts of Castagnoli’s past violence in matches is shown.
Salina slowly stood and exited the confessional. The shot lingered on the empty booth for a moment...until the camera tilted up to the large crucifix hanging above the altar.
Salina’s chilling voice was heard one final time:
A promo from “After SummerFest” aired featuring Deonna Purrazzo.
Purrazzo was seated alone in a steel folding chair backstage at the Scotiabank Arena, still in her gear. Sweat beads were on her forehead. Her taped-up arm was bruised from the war with Nixon Newell. Her eyes were intense – not shaken, but focused. She flexed her fingers and slowly removed the tape from her wrists as she spoke:
Deonna slowly stood and walked off camera.
Ignition returned with a backstage interview with Melissa Santos and Andrew Everett. Santos said:
Everett exhaled sharply and spoke with intensity but without shouting – raw, real emotion.
Ahead of the main event the announcers ran down the card for next week’s Ignition:
- Andrew Everett vs. Trevor Lee
- Four-Way Rookie Showcase: Jungle Boy vs. Myron Reed vs. Ace Austin vs. Sammy Guevara
- Gallows & Anderson vs. #STRONGHEARTS
- Jon Moxley In Action
- Number One Contenders Match: Io Shirai vs. Kay Lee Ray
Match Five: WSW Intercontinental Championship - “The American Nightmare” Cody vs. Adam Cole (c)
The main event of Ignition 200 was a singles match for the Intercontinental Championship between Cody and Adam Cole.
Cody made his entrance, and the crowd erupted. Cody walked on stage, flanked by Diamond Dallas Page, Brandi Rhodes, and Dustin Rhodes. Pyro exploded around them. Cody kissed his wife, and shook the hands of DDP and Dustin before heading down the ramp solo – focused, composed, and ready.
The Intercontinental Champion made his entrance solo. Cole sneered with his signature arrogant swagger; the gleaming Intercontinental Title was around his waist. The Atlanta crowd rained down boos.
The match began with a red hot atmosphere. Both men circled cautiously before locking up. An early grappling exchange yielded a stalemate, neither man wanting to make a false move so early into the match.
A second grappling exchange saw Cody outwrestle Cole, controlling the wrist and floating into a front headlock. Cody hit a crisp drop-down uppercut that popped the crowd.
Cole bailed outside in frustration, pacing and muttering to himself. He re-entered cautiously, but Cody kept up the pressure. He outmaneuvered Cole again on the mat and scored a scoop slam and a vertical suplex that scored an early 2 count.
Cole eventually turned the tide by raking the eyes and landing a sharp kick to the inside of Cody’s thigh, causing the challenger to drop to a knee. Chael Sonnen noted this on commentary:
Cole went to work of the leg, dropping elbows to the inside of the thigh. He mocked the crowd, blowing his nose down on Cody and flipping off the crowd.
Cody rallied back, but as he scaled to the top rope – Cole SHOVED him off, sending Cody crashing down to the floor below.
A second grappling exchange saw Cody outwrestle Cole, controlling the wrist and floating into a front headlock. Cody hit a crisp drop-down uppercut that popped the crowd.
Cole bailed outside in frustration, pacing and muttering to himself. He re-entered cautiously, but Cody kept up the pressure. He outmaneuvered Cole again on the mat and scored a scoop slam and a vertical suplex that scored an early 2 count.
Cole eventually turned the tide by raking the eyes and landing a sharp kick to the inside of Cody’s thigh, causing the challenger to drop to a knee. Chael Sonnen noted this on commentary:
Cole went to work of the leg, dropping elbows to the inside of the thigh. He mocked the crowd, blowing his nose down on Cody and flipping off the crowd.
Cody rallied back, but as he scaled to the top rope – Cole SHOVED him off, sending Cody crashing down to the floor below.
Cole followed up with precision offense, targeting the leg. He slammed the leg against the apron and hit a dragon screw. Back inside, Cole locked in a modified knee bar. Cody screamed in pain, but he refused to quit and got to the ropes for a break.
Cole stayed methodical, connecting with a Ushigoroshi for a 2 count! Cole screamed at Cody:
Cody fired back with slaps and chops, and the crowd rallied behind him. He created separation, and instinct took over....he NAILED a Disaster Kick, but he hit the move with his injured leg!
Both men collapsed on impact, Cody clutching the leg!
Both men got to their feet at the same time, but Cole nailed a superkick to the knee!
Superkick to the face!
Cole charged for the Last Shot.........
CODY DUCKED!
He grabbed the leg of Cole and transitioned to the Figure Four!
“Whoooooooo” sounded out as Cody cinched in the submission! It was locked on tight!
Cole writhed in agony!
The Intercontinental Champion dug his finger into the cerulean blue match as Cody cinched the submission in tight.
Gritting his teeth, Cole reached out........
The tips of his fingers reached the ropes for a break!
Cody broke the hold, but he stayed on the attack; he went for Cross Rhodes....
Cole countered out and went for a Cross Rhodes of his own.........
Cody countered out.
Cody went for a pump kick, but Cole dodged. Cole fired off a superkick........
Cody ducked and the referee ATE the superkick!
The crowd gasped as the official collapsed to the mat.
Cole stayed methodical, connecting with a Ushigoroshi for a 2 count! Cole screamed at Cody:
Cody fired back with slaps and chops, and the crowd rallied behind him. He created separation, and instinct took over....he NAILED a Disaster Kick, but he hit the move with his injured leg!
Both men collapsed on impact, Cody clutching the leg!
Both men got to their feet at the same time, but Cole nailed a superkick to the knee!
Superkick to the face!
Cole charged for the Last Shot.........
CODY DUCKED!
He grabbed the leg of Cole and transitioned to the Figure Four!
“Whoooooooo” sounded out as Cody cinched in the submission! It was locked on tight!
Cole writhed in agony!
The Intercontinental Champion dug his finger into the cerulean blue match as Cody cinched the submission in tight.
Gritting his teeth, Cole reached out........
The tips of his fingers reached the ropes for a break!
Cody broke the hold, but he stayed on the attack; he went for Cross Rhodes....
Cole countered out and went for a Cross Rhodes of his own.........
Cody countered out.
Cody went for a pump kick, but Cole dodged. Cole fired off a superkick........
Cody ducked and the referee ATE the superkick!
The crowd gasped as the official collapsed to the mat.
Cody immediately struck with a Cody Cutter!
Fired up, he hit a perfect Cross Rhodes!
Cody covered, but the referee was still down!
The crowd counted: 1.....2......3............4.................
There was no one to count the pin fall!
Cody flopped back onto the mat, staring up at the lights. He had the match won, but the referee was down!
Cole slowly rolled himself to the corner, he slumped out to the floor. Cody went over to check on the referee. Shaking the motionless referee, Cody urged him to get to his feet.
On the outside, Adam Cole grabbed the Intercontinental Title off the timekeeper’s table.
Clutching the gold belt, Adam Cole slipped back into the ring. Cody desperately shook the referee. He stood, turned around...........
COLE CRACKED CODY IN THE SKULL WITH THE BELT!
Cole tossed the evidence and hit the Last Shot!
Adam Cole dragged the referee over by the collar of his shirt and flopped on top of Cody....
1....................................
2.................................................................
KICK OUT!
The building EXPLODED!
Cole screamed in disbelief. He pulled himself up and climbed to the middle rope. Cole went for the Panama Sunrise........
He point the finger guns at Cody and jumped.............
Cody blocked!
He went for the Alabama Slam, but his leg gave out........
This allowed Cole to slip down the back of Cody and roll him up!
1.....
2..........................
Kick Out!
As soon as Cody kicked out, Cole DESTROYED him with bicycle kick!
Cole pulled down his knee pad and screamed:
Last Shot...............
Cody ducked again and countered with the Alabama Slam! Cody hooked Cole.............
CROSS RHODES!
1......
2...................................................................................
3.........................................................................................................................
Fired up, he hit a perfect Cross Rhodes!
Cody covered, but the referee was still down!
The crowd counted: 1.....2......3............4.................
There was no one to count the pin fall!
Cody flopped back onto the mat, staring up at the lights. He had the match won, but the referee was down!
Cole slowly rolled himself to the corner, he slumped out to the floor. Cody went over to check on the referee. Shaking the motionless referee, Cody urged him to get to his feet.
On the outside, Adam Cole grabbed the Intercontinental Title off the timekeeper’s table.
Clutching the gold belt, Adam Cole slipped back into the ring. Cody desperately shook the referee. He stood, turned around...........
COLE CRACKED CODY IN THE SKULL WITH THE BELT!
Cole tossed the evidence and hit the Last Shot!
Adam Cole dragged the referee over by the collar of his shirt and flopped on top of Cody....
1....................................
2.................................................................
KICK OUT!
The building EXPLODED!
Cole screamed in disbelief. He pulled himself up and climbed to the middle rope. Cole went for the Panama Sunrise........
He point the finger guns at Cody and jumped.............
Cody blocked!
He went for the Alabama Slam, but his leg gave out........
This allowed Cole to slip down the back of Cody and roll him up!
1.....
2..........................
Kick Out!
As soon as Cody kicked out, Cole DESTROYED him with bicycle kick!
Cole pulled down his knee pad and screamed:
Last Shot...............
Cody ducked again and countered with the Alabama Slam! Cody hooked Cole.............
CROSS RHODES!
1......
2...................................................................................
3.........................................................................................................................
Winner and NEW Intercontinental Champion: Cody (15:33)
Outstanding professional wrestling match, and the crowd made this feel truly special. Match escalated well, and since we don’t do ref bumps very much – it actually added to the drama of the match.
Great storytelling, and Cody truly feels like a top tier babyface right now.
Great storytelling, and Cody truly feels like a top tier babyface right now.
The crowd erupted as Cody collapsed in the center of the ring. The State Farm Arena was deafening with chants of
The referee presented Cody with the Intercontinental Title, and he clutched the belt to his chest. Brandi, Dustin, and DDP ran down to celebrate. Brandi embraced Cody, Dustin raised his brother’s arm, and DDP hugged him tight.
Mauro Ranallo delivered the final call:
The final shot of Ignition 200 saw Cody standing triumphantly in the corner, holding the Intercontinental Championship high above his head as the crowd chanted his name.
The referee presented Cody with the Intercontinental Title, and he clutched the belt to his chest. Brandi, Dustin, and DDP ran down to celebrate. Brandi embraced Cody, Dustin raised his brother’s arm, and DDP hugged him tight.
Mauro Ranallo delivered the final call:
The final shot of Ignition 200 saw Cody standing triumphantly in the corner, holding the Intercontinental Championship high above his head as the crowd chanted his name.
Results
No. | Results | Stipulation | Time |
1 | Death Busters (Dawson & Wilder) def. The Hart Foundation (Teddy Hart & Davey Boy Smith Jr.) (c) | Tag team match for the WSW World Tag Team Championships | 28:10 |
2 | Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. def Marti Belle | Singles match | 2:20 |
3 | Alexander Hammerstone def. Brian Pillman Jr. | Singles match - Finals of Elite 8 Tournament | 7:28 |
4 | Candice LeRae & Rachael Ellering def. Ivelisse & Mercedes Martinez | Tag team match | 9:00 |
5 | Cody def. Adam Cole (c) | Singles match for the WSW Intercontinental Championship | 15:33 |
I love the the way you did D.M.D from her fashion and she is a great babyface who will be a star and fantastic promo to make fans who do not know who she is to like her I was thinking what would be nice from Britt to kids in the crowd would be custom made dmd gloves like bret hart did with his pink glasses
News and Rumors |
July 24, 2019 |
- World Series Wrestling officially announced that it would transition Ignition to Tuesday nights 8-10 p.m. Eastern time on Paramount Network starting on 10/1. The show is being promoted as Ignition: Season Premier and will be at the Liacouras Center in Philadelphia, PA. WSW ran this building for a set of tapings in April, and drew the highest attendance for Ignition in history, with a crowd of 7,700. The company’s release said that tickets go on-sale on 7/29.
- WSW and Paramount Network put together a tremendous two-and-a-half-minute trailer for the product, talking about setting a new standard, having the best talent, and pushing themes like harder hitting, higher flying, and the company being a revolution to the industry.
- This move had been expected for a while, and Shane McMahon had been pitching it to the Paramount Network & Viacom executives for several months. The NFL is scheduled to run a full slate of games on Thursday nights this fall, so the move makes a tremendous amount of sense. WSW is in a substantial growth period, and it is the second highest rated show on Paramount Network behind only Yellowstone – the network’s smash hit drama. The NFL is one of the highest ratings draws on television, so WSW avoids running against the most difficult competition on television four months each year.
- Ignition will move into the Tuesday night spot previously occupied by Smackdown. The week of 10/1 will be a big one in wrestling, with Ignition’s move to Tuesday night and Smackdown’s debut on Fox on 10/4.
- It’s also no secret that WWE will look to counter program Ignition with an FS1 airing of NXT. It is unknown if NXT would be a one hour or two-hour show, or if it would be live or taped. The talks are serious enough that in a Fox call to Northeastern affiliates last week, they brought up that possibility. Sources within WWE have confirmed the idea is being discussed, with the reason being competition with WSW.
- If WWE can get a deal done, the plan would be for more main roster talents to appear on NXT.
- While WSW is doing very well as a television product, it is worth noting that these changes do not impact the length or terms of their current deal with Paramount Network. The deal (signed at the beginning of this year) runs through 2021.
- WSW and Paramount Network put together a tremendous two-and-a-half-minute trailer for the product, talking about setting a new standard, having the best talent, and pushing themes like harder hitting, higher flying, and the company being a revolution to the industry.
- WSW went on-sale with tickets for the 9/21 Grand Prix Finals at the Cow Palace on 7/19. Unlike Seize the Day and SummerFest, the show was not an instant sell out. The building is currently set up for a capacity of 10,000. As of this report, roughly 6,500 tickets had been sold, representing 65 percent of the building’s capacity. It’s a solid start, but this is a far cry from the demand WSW experienced for its last two tent pole specials. There are about 920 tickets on Stubhub, with a $30 get-in price.
- With strong buzz coming off the heels of SummerFest and heavy promotion, Ignition 200 on 7/18 was a ratings success. The show did 982,000 viewers and a very strong .43 in the key 18-49 demo. This is a 13.1% increase in viewership week-over-week, and a 30.3% increase in demo rating. This is the highest viewership total since 6/6, and the highest demo rating since 5/2. The show finished 3rd for the night on cable.
- Raw Reunion on 7/22 drew 3,093,000 viewers and a 1.14 rating in the key demo. This is the best rating for the show since August 20, 2018, and the largest audience since April 23, 2018.
- The show was entirely based on nostalgia, and featured the returns of Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin, Ric Flair & Shawn Michaels. The numbers beat the Raw after WrestleMania.
- Raw was the most watched show on cable, and it beat everything in primetime except ABC (The Bachelorette) and NBC (American Ninja Warrior).
- The idea of the reunion show was pitched by the USA Network earlier this summer in effort to spike sagging ratings.
- Once again, the show held up throughout its three hours. The first hour did 3,019,000 viewers. The second hour did 3,178,000 viewers. The third hour did 3,083,000 viewers.
- The show was entirely based on nostalgia, and featured the returns of Hulk Hogan, Steve Austin, Ric Flair & Shawn Michaels. The numbers beat the Raw after WrestleMania.
- The 7/23 Smackdown did 2,162,000 viewers and a .65 in the key demo. Viewership was up 2% week-over-week. These were the best numbers the show has done since 4/16.
- MJF, one of the top independent stars today, officially signed a three-year deal with WSW this week.
- In a story to keep track of, Pac lost the Open the Dream Gate title in Dragon Gate on 7/21. Pac is a name that WSW has been very high on for some time; however, he had refused to lose matches while champion. This was a decision he made to protect the Dragon Gate world title; however, it made booking him difficult. With the title reign now over, the door is open. Both sides are said to be interesting in working out a deal. Pac has not worked in a major US promotion since leaving WWE in August 2018.
- Bret Hart was interviewed by the Calgary Sun this week about his appearance at SummerFest. Hart said:
- Hart was highly complementary of Shane McMahon and the backstage personnel at WSW. He said that the door was open to work with WSW again, but he said that he’s loving the summer in Calgary and didn’t want to miss one day of it. He isn’t taking any appearances this summer, and he won’t be available until the end of August.
- Fresh off her WSW debut, Britt Baker was this week’s guest on Chael Sonnen’s Inside the Ring podcast.
- Baker said that she began training to wrestle at the same time she entered dental school at the University of Pittsburgh. She said:
- Baker is a practicing dentist in Orlando, FL. She said the most exciting day of her professional life was signing her contract with WSW, but she immediately had to make contingency plans for her dental practice due to the weekly TV schedule. Baker said that she is “figuring it out,” but she envisions that most weeks she will work three to four days at her practice and then fly around the country for the Ignition tapings.
- When asked about her goals in WSW, Baker said:
- Baker said that she began training to wrestle at the same time she entered dental school at the University of Pittsburgh. She said:
- CM Punk was a major topic of discussion in the wrestling world this week following an interview with ESPN’s Mark Raimondi. The interview was notable, as Punk doesn’t do a lot of media. Punk reiterated that he hasn’t wrestled in five years, and he didn’t have any plans or desire of “getting back in;” however he noted, “anything is possible.”
- Punk noted that he hated travel and that was a key reason why he doesn’t do many signings or appearances.
- Punk said that while he was still under contract to UFC, he did not envision fighting again. He cited his age and the difficulties of training camp as reasons he didn’t see himself fighting again. Punk said that outside of his family, his favorite thing in the world right now is his role as an analyst for CFFC. He said that it allowed him to stay close to the sport without “having someone throw haymakers at my head or try and choke me out.”
- Punk was complimentary of WSW. He said that it had been far too long since a “viable option” existed in professional wrestling:
- Punk said that he had spoken to Shane McMahon several times, and he noted that he had always liked Shane. Punk said he texted with “a couple guys there,” most recently Cody. Punk said:
- Punk said that he has let go all the feelings of animosity he had towards WWE, noting that holding on to those emotions for so long was unhealthy. He said that he was a totally different person than the guy that sat on the stage in Las Vegas eight years ago and walked away from WWE five years ago. Punk said that in the crazy world of wrestling, fans had a vision of what CM Punk was/should by, and they got disappointed when they saw that he had matured and evolved beyond their narrow vision.
- Raimondi asked him directly, “At the end of 2020, will CM Punk be wrestling somewhere?” Punk’s response:
- Punk noted that he hated travel and that was a key reason why he doesn’t do many signings or appearances.
- Impact Wrestling’s bid to get on AXS appears to be on life support. The company was banking on Len Asper, owner of Anthem (parent company of Impact), purchasing AXS for months. While currently producing an entertaining product, Impact’s viewership has withered away with their only broadcast outlets being Pursuit and Twitch. The Pursuit numbers are in the 10,000 viewers range.
- Impact officials always viewed their move to Pursuit as temporary, with the goal of signing a long-term deal with AXS. At this point, AXS has decided against picking up another wrestling show since they already have New Japan and Women of Wrestling.
- This week, Impact announced a new deal with Twitch, which will see the continued live simulcast of their weekly show along with new, platform specific content as well.
- Impact officials always viewed their move to Pursuit as temporary, with the goal of signing a long-term deal with AXS. At this point, AXS has decided against picking up another wrestling show since they already have New Japan and Women of Wrestling.
- Ahead of the Q2 investor’s call, WWE top executives sold a tremendous amount of stock. Co-President Michelle Wilson sold $4.5M worth shares, while other Co-President George Barrios sold $9.7M. Paul and Stephanie Levesque sold $2.2M worth of shares combined.
- With Q2 metrics lagging, it is expected that WWE will shift towards “tiered” subscriptions on the WWE Network.
- Tickets went on sale this week for WWE’s 9/9 and 9/10 shows at Madison Square Garden. As covered last week, WWE booked the building to undercut WSW, as WSW will run MSG for the first time ever with the 11/30 November Reign show. Internally, there was talk of both shows selling out; however, that hasn’t come close to happening. There were a ton tickets left in all sections for Raw, and even more for Smackdown. Tickets for Raw are not even close to the sales levels of the ROH/NJPW show in April. Tickets are incredibly expensive, and it is expected that pricing will drop to move inventory.
- Tickets for November Reign on 11/30 at MSG go on-sale on Friday 8/1. There will be a pre-sale on Wednesday 7/31 with access coming from special pre-sale codes issued by WSW.
- Seth Rollins was back in the news this week following a couple eyebrow raising interviews. Speaking with Yahoo!, Rollins compared WWE to the New York Yankees when asked about the negative online discourse towards the company:
- Rollins would double down on a SummerSlam media conference call a couple days later when asked about his recent Twitter interactions with Will Ospreay, and Ospreay’s subsequent critically acclaimed match with Jon Moxley in Toronto at SummerFest:
- In addition to the Philadelphia show mentioned above, WSW announced 9/26 in West Valley, UT (Salt Lake City) at the Maverik Center for Ignition. It will be the WSW debut in the market.
- Advertised for the 7/25 Ignition:
- Io Shirai vs. Kay Lee Ray – Number One Contender’s Match
- Gallows & Anderson vs. #StrongHearts
- Cody Promo
- Jon Moxley In Action
- Lucha Brothers vs. South Pacific Power Trip
- Black Arrow Promo
- Newcomer Four Way: Jungle Boy vs. Myron Reed vs. Sammy Guevara vs. Ace Austin
Attachments
Ignition: Episode 201 |
Promotion: World Series Wrestling |
Date: July 25, 2019 |
City: Charlotte, NC |
Venue: Bojangles Coliseum |
Attendance: 4,000 |
The 7/25 Ignition opened with a recap video, highlighting the major moments from last week on Ignition 200:
- The Death Busters shocking dethroning of The Hart Foundation, capturing the World Tag Team Titles.
- Kenny Omega, AJ Styles, and Jon Moxley’s standoff is recapped. The moment saw Moxley drop Omega with a Death Rider DDT, sparking a chaotic brawl that saw Omega blast Styles with a V-Trigger intended for Moxley.
- Tessa Blanchard declared herself a goddess. When confronted by Io Shirai and Kay Lee Ray – she promised to defend the Women’s World Championship against the winner of two...driving a wedge in their alliance against Diamond.
- Cody defeated Adam Cole to win the Intercontinental Championship. We see him hoist the belt high in front of his rabid hometown Atlanta crowd.
The Ignition opening video aired.
The camera then cut inside the Bojangles Coliseum in Charlotte, North Carolina as Shoot To Thrill sounds out, sending an electric wave around the arena for the arrival of Jon Moxley!
Moxley emerged in the crowd, weaving his way through the sea of fans with his signature reckless swagger. Alan Angels was already in the ring.
Moxley hopped the guardrail and stomped up the steel steps with no hesitation. He threw his jacket down at ringside. The Charlotte crowd roared:
Match One: Alan Angels vs. "The Death Rider" Jon Moxley
Moxley charged like a wild bull at the bell, immediately corning Angels and unleashing a barrage of wild fists and forearms to the side of the head. The referee tried to pull Moxley back, but he barely broke on the count of four. He smirked as he fired Angels across the ring with a hard Irish whip.
Angels bounced off the turnbuckles from the impact – right into a stiff lariat that turned him inside out!
Angels bounced off the turnbuckles from the impact – right into a stiff lariat that turned him inside out!
Angels tried to get his bearings, crawling to the ropes, but Moxley gave him no quarter. Her dragged Angels up and hurled him chest-first into the corner. Angels staggered back, and Moxley delivered a quick German suplex!
The crowd fed off the frenetic pace, chanting Moxley’s name as he circled his prey like a shark.
In a desperate last-ditch effort, Angels threw a weak forearm that Moxley ate with his jaw. Moxley laughed and said,
The crowd fed off the frenetic pace, chanting Moxley’s name as he circled his prey like a shark.
In a desperate last-ditch effort, Angels threw a weak forearm that Moxley ate with his jaw. Moxley laughed and said,
Moxley rocked him with a vicious knee strike to the gut...followed by a Regal Knee!
Moxley hit the Death Rider DDT!
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Jon Moxley (1:09)
Simple match to continue Moxley’s momentum and showcase his violent, chaotic energy heading into the Grand Prix. The crowd loves him, and he’s never been hotter than he is right now.
After pinning Alan Angels, Moxley pulled a microphone from the timekeeper’s table. He paced in the ring, wild-eyed, as the crowd chanted his name:
Moxley spiked the microphone HARD onto the canvas, the thud echoing through the arena. Without looking back, he exited the ring, hopped the guardrail, and disappeared through the roaring crowd.
Moxley spiked the microphone HARD onto the canvas, the thud echoing through the arena. Without looking back, he exited the ring, hopped the guardrail, and disappeared through the roaring crowd.
A promo for the 2019 Grand Prix aired. Beginning August 15: twelve men, two blocks, one winner.
A vignette on Alexander Hammerstone aired.
Inside a modern, high-tech gym the Elite 8 Tournament trophy gleamed under the bright lights as weights clang and grunts echo.
Rapid-fire highlights are shown:
- Hammerstone kicking Alan Angels into oblivion.
- Hammerstone catching Jungle Boy out of the air and planting him on the canvas
- Hammerstone flattening Brian Pillman Jr. with a Nightmare Pendulum to win the tournament.
Hammerstone’s voice narrates the piece:
More training shots were shown – Hammerstone hitting an insane vertical leap, deadlifting, and slamming a 300 pound dummy inside a training ring.
Hammerstone gripped the Elite 8 trophy in one hand and pointed straight to the camera:
Ignition returned with the commentary trio of Mauro Ranallo, Chael Sonnen, and Paige Knight running down the card for the evening before they throw it to ring announcer Justin Roberts.
Match Two: South Pacific Power Trip (w/ Dahlia Black) vs. Lucha Brothers (w/ Konnan)
South Pacific Power Trip, winners of the 2019 Global Cup, entered first. The arena lights blacked out and pyro EXPLODED on stage signify the arrival of the Lucha Brothers.
Accompanied by Konnan, Fenix and Pentagon looked to regain momentum after defying gravity in their loss to The Hart Foundation in Escalera de la Muerte at SummerFest.
Pentagon started off with Travis Banks, flashing the Cero Miedo taunt directly in his face. Banks didn’t back down – ripping into Pentagon with stiff forearms. Pentagon fired back with knife-edge chops that popped like firecrackers.
The two traded hard strikes, neither man backing down, until Pentagon caught Banks with a low mule kick to the thigh and leveled him with a superkick.
The two traded hard strikes, neither man backing down, until Pentagon caught Banks with a low mule kick to the thigh and leveled him with a superkick.
The Lucha Brothers isolated Banks early, cutting the ring off with quick tags and their signature double-team moves. Fenix connected on a springboard missile dropkick into a backstabber from Pentagon for a 2 count!
The crowd booed Konnan as he shouted instructions from ringside, urging his men to stay ruthless.
TK Cooper got a hot tag and exploded into the match, ducking a lariat from Pentagon and nailing Fenix with leg lariat. Cooper caught Pentagon with an enziguri that staggered the masked man and sent him tumbling through the ropes to the apron.
Cooper didn’t let up, as he charged, leapt onto the second rope, and hit a SPRINGBOARD DDT ONTO THE APRON!
Pentagon was spiked on top of his head! The crowd gasped at the impact!
Cooper threw Pentagon back into the ring and dove in for a cover.
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Kick Out!
Not wasting a second, Cooper dragged Pentagon into their corner, where Travis Banks tagged in. Together, South Pacific Power Trip hit a pair of running forearms into the corner followed by a tandem back suplex/frog splash combination!
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Kick Out!
Banks and Cooper set up for the Gatling Gun (catapult by Cooper into a Busaiku Knee from Banks).
Fenix jumped in the ring, and the referee immediately ran over, screaming to get back on the apron. This was all a distraction, allowing Konnan to trip Banks up from the floor!
The crowd booed at Konnan with intensity.
Pentagon capitalized, driving an elbow into the jaw of Cooper and catching Banks with a slingblade. He lunged to his corner and tagged in Fenix.
Fenix exploded into the ring and DESTORYED Cooper with a shotgun dropkick that sent him to the floor!
Fenix and Banks met head-on! Both men started firing off rapid strikes – forearms, chops, and slaps. Banks ATE a superkick from Fenix, bounced off the ropes from the impact, and roared with a huge lariat that spun Fenix inside out!
Fenix popped up immediately and hit a hook kick to the jaw!
Both men collapsed!
The crowd booed Konnan as he shouted instructions from ringside, urging his men to stay ruthless.
TK Cooper got a hot tag and exploded into the match, ducking a lariat from Pentagon and nailing Fenix with leg lariat. Cooper caught Pentagon with an enziguri that staggered the masked man and sent him tumbling through the ropes to the apron.
Cooper didn’t let up, as he charged, leapt onto the second rope, and hit a SPRINGBOARD DDT ONTO THE APRON!
Pentagon was spiked on top of his head! The crowd gasped at the impact!
Cooper threw Pentagon back into the ring and dove in for a cover.
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Kick Out!
Not wasting a second, Cooper dragged Pentagon into their corner, where Travis Banks tagged in. Together, South Pacific Power Trip hit a pair of running forearms into the corner followed by a tandem back suplex/frog splash combination!
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Kick Out!
Banks and Cooper set up for the Gatling Gun (catapult by Cooper into a Busaiku Knee from Banks).
Fenix jumped in the ring, and the referee immediately ran over, screaming to get back on the apron. This was all a distraction, allowing Konnan to trip Banks up from the floor!
The crowd booed at Konnan with intensity.
Pentagon capitalized, driving an elbow into the jaw of Cooper and catching Banks with a slingblade. He lunged to his corner and tagged in Fenix.
Fenix exploded into the ring and DESTORYED Cooper with a shotgun dropkick that sent him to the floor!
Fenix and Banks met head-on! Both men started firing off rapid strikes – forearms, chops, and slaps. Banks ATE a superkick from Fenix, bounced off the ropes from the impact, and roared with a huge lariat that spun Fenix inside out!
Fenix popped up immediately and hit a hook kick to the jaw!
Both men collapsed!
The crowd cheered at the sheer speed and violence of this strike heavy match. Both men tagged out.
TK Cooper and Pentagon stormed into the ring at full speed.
Cooper ducked a wild swing from Pentagon and landed a sharp jumping knee to the chin. Cooper hit the ropes, but Pentagon was quicker – catching him with another slingblade!
Pentagon DRILLED Cooper with the Made In Japan!
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Kick Out!
Pentagon signaled to Fenix. Fenix vaulted to the top....
Travis Banks went to cut him off, but Fenix rope walked and POPPED Banks with a penalty kick, sending him off the apron to the floor. Fenix positioned himself on the top with his insane, catlike agility......
FEAR FACTOR!
Pentagon covered......
Fenix sprinted across the ring and launched himself onto Banks with a cannonball tope suicida, smashing him into the steel guardrail and taking him completely out of the picture!
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TK Cooper and Pentagon stormed into the ring at full speed.
Cooper ducked a wild swing from Pentagon and landed a sharp jumping knee to the chin. Cooper hit the ropes, but Pentagon was quicker – catching him with another slingblade!
Pentagon DRILLED Cooper with the Made In Japan!
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Kick Out!
Pentagon signaled to Fenix. Fenix vaulted to the top....
Travis Banks went to cut him off, but Fenix rope walked and POPPED Banks with a penalty kick, sending him off the apron to the floor. Fenix positioned himself on the top with his insane, catlike agility......
FEAR FACTOR!
Pentagon covered......
Fenix sprinted across the ring and launched himself onto Banks with a cannonball tope suicida, smashing him into the steel guardrail and taking him completely out of the picture!
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Lucha Brothers (8:35)
Lucha Brothers regained heat after their loss at SummerFest. Match was aggressive and sharp. South Pacific Power Trip played their role well – very clean mechanically. Banks & Cooper are professional, reliable hands.
Banks stood out individually. Crowd reacted well to his intensity during the strike exchange with Fenix.
South Pacific Power Trip as a unit continues to struggle. There is minimal crowd connection to the team, and they don’t have significant charisma. Fans popped for individual moments, but did not invest in the team overall. Their ceiling feels low unless their presentation/character work evolves.
Good match that served its purpose of keeping the Lucha Brother dangerous.
Banks stood out individually. Crowd reacted well to his intensity during the strike exchange with Fenix.
South Pacific Power Trip as a unit continues to struggle. There is minimal crowd connection to the team, and they don’t have significant charisma. Fans popped for individual moments, but did not invest in the team overall. Their ceiling feels low unless their presentation/character work evolves.
Good match that served its purpose of keeping the Lucha Brother dangerous.
The bell rang, and Konnan climbed into the ring. The Lucha Brother stood tall, flashing the Cero Miedo hand signal.
A promo aired for WSW OverDrive.
A gritty montage is shown: women’s division chaos, fast tag team combos, emerging stars – shots of Deonna Purrazzo, Tessa Blanchard, LFI, and The Von Erichs. The piece had high energy, quick cuts over this narration:
Backstage, Melissa Santos interviewed Kay Lee Ray inside a locker room. KLR sat on a bench, lacing up her boots with focused intensity.
Melissa said:
KLR finished tying her boot. She spoke with calm, burning passion.
The lights blacked out in the Bojangles Coliseum and Do Your Worst by Rival Sons hit. The LED video board illuminated with the words BLACK ARROW in bold white block font.
Adam Cole, flanked by the new World Tag Team Champions, Dawson and Wilder, made their way down the ramp. Cole glared at the fans, Dawson mouthed off, and Wilder carried his belt with smug satisfaction.
Inside the ring, Cole called for a mic. The crowd chanted “You Suck” and “Cody!”
Cole paced, seething with anger.
Cole paused, and clenched his jaw.
Cole lowered the mic and smiled slightly.
Cole stepped aside, and Dawson took the microphone.
The Hart Foundation – Teddy Hart, Davey Boy Smith Jr., and Brian Pillman Jr. walked out onto the stage. They didn’t posture, they didn’t smile. They walked with purpose. Teddy had a microphone:
The crowd cheered for the Hart Foundation as they entered the ring. Tension tightened quickly.
The crowd was fully behind the passionate words of Teddy Hart. A “Teddy” chant fired up. Dawson and Wilder looked at each other and then the crowd. They smirked, and Wilder spoke:
All six men went toe-to-toe. No punches, just venom in the air.
Black Arrow went to exit the ring, and Brian Pillman shoulder checked Adam Cole. Cole lingered just a bit as Dawson and Wilder climbed to the floor.
With a smirk, Cole turned towards Pillman.....
AND SPIT HIS GUM RIGHT IN HIS FACE!
Gasps and boos erupted from the crowd.
Pillman lost it. He lunged forward, but Cole slipped through the ropes and hopped to the floor, laughing to himself.
Cole backed up the ramp with the Death Busters beside him. Dawson and Wilder raised their titles overhead. On commentary Mauro Ranallo said:
Match Three: Newcomer Four Way: Jungle Boy vs. “Hot Fire” Myron Reed vs. "The Best Ever" Sammy Guevara vs. Ace Austin
The bell rang, and immediately all four men charged the center causing a chaotic tangle of fists and feet flying. Jungle Boy and Ace Austin brawled to one side, while Sammy Guevara and Myron Reed traded blistering forearms.
Austin ducked a lariat from Jungle Boy and popped his collapsible playing card out of his boot, slapping Jungle Boy across the face with it. The crowd booed at this, and Jungle Boy responded by lighting Austin up with chops and spiking him with a quick tilt-a-whirl backbreaker.
On the other side of the ring, Reed hit the ropes and delivered a rebound cutter on Guevara. Reed kipped up, showboating for the crowd – but he turned right into a running hurricanrana from Jungle Boy that sent him sprawling out of the ring.
The match broke wide open as Jungle Boy and Sammy Guevara locked eyes. The crowd cheered. They hit the ropes and traded arm drags, lucha roll-throughs, and backflips into mirrored dropkicks. Things ended in a stalemate and the crowd cheered!
Before they could continue, Reed yanked Jungle Boy out of the ring and threw him into the steel guardrail, only to eat a spinning kick from Ace Austin.
Austin then took down both men with an Asai Moonsault!
Sammy Guevara took one look at the pile of bodies and hit the ropes.....
CARTWHEEL CORKSCREW PLANCHA!
Everyone was wiped out on the floor, and a “WSW” chant fired up!
Austin ducked a lariat from Jungle Boy and popped his collapsible playing card out of his boot, slapping Jungle Boy across the face with it. The crowd booed at this, and Jungle Boy responded by lighting Austin up with chops and spiking him with a quick tilt-a-whirl backbreaker.
On the other side of the ring, Reed hit the ropes and delivered a rebound cutter on Guevara. Reed kipped up, showboating for the crowd – but he turned right into a running hurricanrana from Jungle Boy that sent him sprawling out of the ring.
The match broke wide open as Jungle Boy and Sammy Guevara locked eyes. The crowd cheered. They hit the ropes and traded arm drags, lucha roll-throughs, and backflips into mirrored dropkicks. Things ended in a stalemate and the crowd cheered!
Before they could continue, Reed yanked Jungle Boy out of the ring and threw him into the steel guardrail, only to eat a spinning kick from Ace Austin.
Austin then took down both men with an Asai Moonsault!
Sammy Guevara took one look at the pile of bodies and hit the ropes.....
CARTWHEEL CORKSCREW PLANCHA!
Everyone was wiped out on the floor, and a “WSW” chant fired up!
Back in the ring, Reed caught Guevara with a Code Red....
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RUNNING KNEE STRIKE FROM JUNGLE BOY BROKE UP THE PIN!
Ace Austin slid back inside and snapped Jungle Boy down with a spinning neckbreaker over his knee. Austin whipped Reed into one corner and Guevara into another. Austin then became a human pinball:
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Kick Out!
Austin slapped the mat and dragged Jungle Boy back up – looking for a vertical suplex. As he did, Myron Reed charged in and hit a reverse STO, planting Austin face-first into the mat and causing Jungle Boy to get hit with a DDT as well!
Austin rolled to the apron, so Reed hit a baseball slide – sending Austin crashing onto the floor mats. He whipped Austin hard into the guardrail, then grabbed him by the head and slammed him face-first onto the steel.
With Austin stunned, Reed hoisted him up and dropped him gut first across the guardrail, leaving him draping.
The crowd buzzed as Reed backed up to the apron.
Reed sprinted down the apron and launched into a SHOOTING STAR PRESS!
He CRASHED down onto Ace Austin’s back, sending both men crashing down at ringside. The crowd exploded into “Holy Shit!” chants.
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2.........
RUNNING KNEE STRIKE FROM JUNGLE BOY BROKE UP THE PIN!
Ace Austin slid back inside and snapped Jungle Boy down with a spinning neckbreaker over his knee. Austin whipped Reed into one corner and Guevara into another. Austin then became a human pinball:
- Step up knee strike to Reed
- Handspring roundhouse kick to Guevara!
1...
2........
Kick Out!
Austin slapped the mat and dragged Jungle Boy back up – looking for a vertical suplex. As he did, Myron Reed charged in and hit a reverse STO, planting Austin face-first into the mat and causing Jungle Boy to get hit with a DDT as well!
Austin rolled to the apron, so Reed hit a baseball slide – sending Austin crashing onto the floor mats. He whipped Austin hard into the guardrail, then grabbed him by the head and slammed him face-first onto the steel.
With Austin stunned, Reed hoisted him up and dropped him gut first across the guardrail, leaving him draping.
The crowd buzzed as Reed backed up to the apron.
Reed sprinted down the apron and launched into a SHOOTING STAR PRESS!
He CRASHED down onto Ace Austin’s back, sending both men crashing down at ringside. The crowd exploded into “Holy Shit!” chants.
Back in the ring, Jungle Boy and Myron Reed went nuts – trading counters, elbows, and headbutts.
While this was going on, Sammy Guevara climbed to the top rope looking for a surprise ariel strike.....
Jungle Boy ducked a kick attempt from Myron Reed, lifting him onto his shoulder..........
JUNGLE BOY LAWN DARTED REED INTO THE MIDDLE TURNBUCKLE!
The force of the blow caused Guevara to lose his balance, and he got crotched on the top!
With the crowd chanting his name, Jungle Boy seized the moment and locked the Snare Trap on the prone Reed!
The crowd rose to their feet, as Reed flailed. His hand hovered over the mat......just about to tap.........
SAMMY GUEVARA EXPLODED FROM THE TOP WITH A 630 SENTON ONTO BOTH MEN!
From the heavens, Guevara CRASHED on both men! Jungle Boy rolled off in pain, staring up at the lights in pain.
Guevara took advantage. He kicked Jungle Boy to the floor and covered Myron Reed.............
1....
2...........................
3.........................................................
While this was going on, Sammy Guevara climbed to the top rope looking for a surprise ariel strike.....
Jungle Boy ducked a kick attempt from Myron Reed, lifting him onto his shoulder..........
JUNGLE BOY LAWN DARTED REED INTO THE MIDDLE TURNBUCKLE!
The force of the blow caused Guevara to lose his balance, and he got crotched on the top!
With the crowd chanting his name, Jungle Boy seized the moment and locked the Snare Trap on the prone Reed!
The crowd rose to their feet, as Reed flailed. His hand hovered over the mat......just about to tap.........
SAMMY GUEVARA EXPLODED FROM THE TOP WITH A 630 SENTON ONTO BOTH MEN!
From the heavens, Guevara CRASHED on both men! Jungle Boy rolled off in pain, staring up at the lights in pain.
Guevara took advantage. He kicked Jungle Boy to the floor and covered Myron Reed.............
1....
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3.........................................................
Sammy Guevara (10:00)
The pace of this match was insane. We wanted these guys to go a million miles an hour and show their elite athleticism. Everyone had moments.
Every wrestler had a distinct flavor. Jungle Boy is very over with kids and women – the crowd popped the loudest for him. Sammy is incredible too – the 630 was flawlessly executed.
Myron Reed hasn’t connected character-wise. He’s a great athlete, but he doesn’t have an identity yet. Ace Austin’s offense can look too smooth at times – borderline choreographed.
Crowd reaction was stronger than expected. Guevara walks out with momentum, but the real win is the crowd walking out thinking, “those guys can GO.”
Every wrestler had a distinct flavor. Jungle Boy is very over with kids and women – the crowd popped the loudest for him. Sammy is incredible too – the 630 was flawlessly executed.
Myron Reed hasn’t connected character-wise. He’s a great athlete, but he doesn’t have an identity yet. Ace Austin’s offense can look too smooth at times – borderline choreographed.
Crowd reaction was stronger than expected. Guevara walks out with momentum, but the real win is the crowd walking out thinking, “those guys can GO.”
Guevara grinned smugly as the referee raised his hand. Jungle Boy sat on the floor, stunned as he knew he had that match won.
Sammy climbed the middle rope, stood in the corner, and held his arms our arrogantly. He shouted:
Sammy climbed the middle rope, stood in the corner, and held his arms our arrogantly. He shouted:
A vignette on the LA Express aired.
The camera opened a luxury poolside patio in Los Angeles. As the summer sun shined, Johnny Mundo sat at a table in designer sunglasses and a fur collared robe. Taya Valkyrie sipped kombucha, and Mike Bennett looked frustrated, staring at his phone.
Bennett said:
Mundo sighed:
Mundo grabbed the phone, looked at it in disgust and without hesitation...threw it into the pool.
Mundo took his sunglasses off and said:
Bennett looked on with a look of surprise and worry. Mundo turned his attention to him:
Mundo then pushed his chair back and stood up:
The camera faded out.
A video package on the history of The Carolina Outlaws, Trevor Lee & Andrew Everett aired, set to The Mighty Rio Grande by This Will Destroy You.
We see early, independent footage of the two wrestling in poorly lit gymnasiums. We see slow motion shots of ring entrances and big dives.
The package cuts to their WSW debut on the third episode of Ignition in September 2015. Flash cuts of their greatest hits are shown – including winning the World Tag Team Championships. We see a shot of the two holding the belts together, smiling ear to ear.
The footage slows – showing losses and frustrated expressions. We see Trevor pacing post-match, avoiding Everett’s fist bumps.
We then see Lee punch Everett in the mouth from two weeks ago:
The package closes with Andrew Everette’s words last week:
Match Four: Andrew Everett vs. Trevor Lee
The bell ran, and both men met in the center of the ring. The tension was palpable as Trevor Lee and Andrew Everett stared at each other – former tag team partners, now opponents.
Trevor smirked...and SLAPPED Everett across the face!
That lit the fuse. Everett fired back with rapid forearms, unloading weeks of frustration with a fury the crowd didn’t expect. He hit the ropes and caught Lee with a low dropkick to the knees, followed by a standing moonsault that yielded a 1 count!
Lee bailed to the outside, stunned by the early flurry.
Everett didn’t hesitate. He hit the ropes and drilled a tope suicida, sending Lee crashing into the steel guardrail. Everett was fired up!
But it didn’t last.
As Everett tried to whip Lee into the ring post, Lee reversed it – sending Everett face first into the steel post with a loud CLANG!
Everett crumpled to the floor. Lee mounted him and hammered down with punches – each one drawing jeers from the crowd.
Lee then pulled Everett up and drilled him with a wheelbarrow German suplex on the floor!
Everett folded hard, and the crowd groaned.
Trevor smirked...and SLAPPED Everett across the face!
That lit the fuse. Everett fired back with rapid forearms, unloading weeks of frustration with a fury the crowd didn’t expect. He hit the ropes and caught Lee with a low dropkick to the knees, followed by a standing moonsault that yielded a 1 count!
Lee bailed to the outside, stunned by the early flurry.
Everett didn’t hesitate. He hit the ropes and drilled a tope suicida, sending Lee crashing into the steel guardrail. Everett was fired up!
But it didn’t last.
As Everett tried to whip Lee into the ring post, Lee reversed it – sending Everett face first into the steel post with a loud CLANG!
Everett crumpled to the floor. Lee mounted him and hammered down with punches – each one drawing jeers from the crowd.
Lee then pulled Everett up and drilled him with a wheelbarrow German suplex on the floor!
Everett folded hard, and the crowd groaned.
Lee threw Everett back in the ring and covered:
1....
2........
Kick Out!
Lee didn’t even flinch. He grabbed Everett by the hair, dragging him around like trash. He stomped the back of Everett’s neck, stood on his fingers, and smiled to the crowd – he was a shark that knew the water he was in.
Everett clawed to his feet and tried to swing, but Lee cut him off with an elbow strike. Lee lifted Everett for a vertical suplex, but Everett countered with a Stundog Millionare.......NO!
Lee knew his tag team partner so well he blocked it, but Everett quickly transitioned, pushing off the ropes with his feet and PLANTING Trevor Lee with a tornado DDT!
1.....
2................
KICK OUT!
Everett pulled his hair back and went for to the skies. Springboard 450............
LEE ROLLED AWAY.......
Everett landed on his feet, rolled through, but Lee exploded and caught him with a half and half suplex that sent Everett landing hard onto his neck!
1....
2........
Kick Out!
Lee didn’t even flinch. He grabbed Everett by the hair, dragging him around like trash. He stomped the back of Everett’s neck, stood on his fingers, and smiled to the crowd – he was a shark that knew the water he was in.
Everett clawed to his feet and tried to swing, but Lee cut him off with an elbow strike. Lee lifted Everett for a vertical suplex, but Everett countered with a Stundog Millionare.......NO!
Lee knew his tag team partner so well he blocked it, but Everett quickly transitioned, pushing off the ropes with his feet and PLANTING Trevor Lee with a tornado DDT!
1.....
2................
KICK OUT!
Everett pulled his hair back and went for to the skies. Springboard 450............
LEE ROLLED AWAY.......
Everett landed on his feet, rolled through, but Lee exploded and caught him with a half and half suplex that sent Everett landing hard onto his neck!
Lee didn’t waste a second.
He dragged Everett up......PILEDRIVER!
Lee didn’t stop, he yanked Everett up again.......
PILEDRIVER!
The crowd murmured in concern.
The referee dropped down to check on Andrew Everett, but Lee shoved him aside and climbed up top. Wasted no time or motion, Lee leapt....
DIVING DOUBLE FOOT STOMP!
1....
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3........................................
He dragged Everett up......PILEDRIVER!
Lee didn’t stop, he yanked Everett up again.......
PILEDRIVER!
The crowd murmured in concern.
The referee dropped down to check on Andrew Everett, but Lee shoved him aside and climbed up top. Wasted no time or motion, Lee leapt....
DIVING DOUBLE FOOT STOMP!
1....
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Trevor Lee (9:08)
Structure was tight, and Trevor Lee was excellent. His facial expressions, pacing, and mannerisms are fantastic. This match was all about turning Lee, and he nailed it.
The crowd doesn’t connect with Andrew Everett, so this wasn’t an emotional affair. They know they don’t like Trevor Lee, but they don’t care a ton about Andrew Everett as a babyface.
The match did what it needed to do though.
The crowd doesn’t connect with Andrew Everett, so this wasn’t an emotional affair. They know they don’t like Trevor Lee, but they don’t care a ton about Andrew Everett as a babyface.
The match did what it needed to do though.
The crowd booed as Trevor Lee sat up slowly. Andrew Everett lay motionless, the aftermath of two piledrivers and the diving double foot stomp.
Lee stood. He paced the ring...then look back at Everett.
Slowly, Everett stirred. He crawled to the ropes, eyes glassy. He pulled himself up, breath ragged – but he was standing.
He looked at Trevor Lee, the man who he had fought so many battles with over the years. In that moment he didn’t see an opponent. He saw his friend.
Andrew Everett extended his hand.........
The arena hushed.
Trevor Lee stared at the hand. His face didn’t move. No smirk.
He took a step forward....
Trevor Lee extended his hand................................................
HE BLASTED ANDREW EVERETT WITH A LARIAT!
Gasps were head followed by boos!
Lee dropped to his knees, grabbed Everett by the jaw, and whispered something no one could hear.
Then, with cold precision, Lee delivered a THIRD PILEDRIVER!
Trevor Lee rose to his feet calmly, brushing the hair out of his eyes. He knelt beside Everett and took one long look...........
And smiled a slow, peaceful grin!
Referees and officials ran to the ring as Lee slid out, hands raised in victory. He never looked back.
Mauro Ranallo narrated the scene on commentary:
Lee stood. He paced the ring...then look back at Everett.
Slowly, Everett stirred. He crawled to the ropes, eyes glassy. He pulled himself up, breath ragged – but he was standing.
He looked at Trevor Lee, the man who he had fought so many battles with over the years. In that moment he didn’t see an opponent. He saw his friend.
Andrew Everett extended his hand.........
The arena hushed.
Trevor Lee stared at the hand. His face didn’t move. No smirk.
He took a step forward....
Trevor Lee extended his hand................................................
HE BLASTED ANDREW EVERETT WITH A LARIAT!
Gasps were head followed by boos!
Lee dropped to his knees, grabbed Everett by the jaw, and whispered something no one could hear.
Then, with cold precision, Lee delivered a THIRD PILEDRIVER!
Trevor Lee rose to his feet calmly, brushing the hair out of his eyes. He knelt beside Everett and took one long look...........
And smiled a slow, peaceful grin!
Referees and officials ran to the ring as Lee slid out, hands raised in victory. He never looked back.
Mauro Ranallo narrated the scene on commentary:
Ignition returned from commercial with Chael Sonnen standing inside the ring, microphone in hand.
Massive pyro exploded, and the crowd erupted into the loudest reaction of the night. Cody walked down the ramp in a tailored navy suit, the gleaming, white-strapped Intercontinental Championship slung over his shoulder. He closed his eyes and soaked it in as the crowd chanted “Cody, Cody, Cody”
As he entered the ring, Cody shook hands with Sonnen and spoke:
The crowd cheered louder and Cody laughed at the reaction before starting.
The crowd cheered loudly as Cody held the belt high.
The drew a HUGE cheer.
Cody stepped to the ropes and raised the title high.
On commentary, Mauro Ranallo said:
Backstage, Melissa Santos stood with Diamond. Tessa Blanchard was dressed in a white tank top and jeans with the WSW Women’s World Championship over her shoulder. Tenille Dashwood stood close by, and Nixon Newell stood behind them both.
Melissa said:
Tessa exhaled sharply – amused:
Tessa adjusted the title on her should – the weight of dominance.
Tessa turned sharply to Tenille.
Tenille nodded as Nixon’s jaw clenched – subtle, but visible.
Diamond then walked out. Melissa Santos threw it across the building:
The camera cut across the backstage area to Jenn Decker, making her Ignition debut, who was with AJ Styles, Karl Anderson, and Doc Gallows.
AJ smirked and leaned into the mic:
AJ Styles stepped back, letting Karl Anderson take over. He clapped his hands once and smiled:
He turned towards Gallows:
Gallows looked into the camera and said one word:
Match Five: #StrongHearts vs. Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows (w/ AJ Styles)
The fifth match of Ignition was a tag team match between #StrongHearts (CIMA & T-Hawk) vs. Karl Anderson and Doc Gallows. CIMA and T-Hawk were already in the ring as The Club made their entrance to cheers.
Anderson started with CIMA. The two circled before locking up. Anderson used a quick arm drag, but CIMA responded with a headscissors takedown and a crisp dropkick that sent Anderson tumbling into his corner.
Gallows tagged in and changed the tone, clubbing CIMA to the mat with heavy forearms and a lariat. Gallows tossed CIMA across the ring with a release vertical suplex.
Gallows tagged in and changed the tone, clubbing CIMA to the mat with heavy forearms and a lariat. Gallows tossed CIMA across the ring with a release vertical suplex.
T-Hawk tagged in and showed off his striking stills. He traded chops with Gallows and staggered the big man with a roaring elbow. T-HAWK took Gallows over the top with a leg lariat!
Anderson entered the ring, but T-Hawk low bridged him – sending Anderson tumbling to the floor.
#StrongHeart clapped their hands to fire up the crowd and CONNECTED on stereo tope con hilos!
Taking things back inside, T-Hawk scaled to the top, but Gallows cut his off with an uppercut that ECHOED throughout the Bojangles Coliseum. Gallows then brought T-Hawk back to the canvas with a thunderous superplex!
Gallows tagged in Anderson, and from there, The Club took over:
CIMA got the hot tag and tried to spark another comeback, dodging a double clothesline and hitting a shotgun dropkick on both men. CIMA then went wild – throwing strikes and kicks that popped the chest of both Gallows and Anderson. CIMA moved like a wild man – hitting anything and everything that moved!
CIMA dropped Anderson with a roundhouse to the head and stunned Gallows with a leaping knee strike to the jaw!
Anderson entered the ring, but T-Hawk low bridged him – sending Anderson tumbling to the floor.
#StrongHeart clapped their hands to fire up the crowd and CONNECTED on stereo tope con hilos!
Taking things back inside, T-Hawk scaled to the top, but Gallows cut his off with an uppercut that ECHOED throughout the Bojangles Coliseum. Gallows then brought T-Hawk back to the canvas with a thunderous superplex!
Gallows tagged in Anderson, and from there, The Club took over:
- Anderson & Gallows hit a combination back suplex/neckbreaker combo for a 2 count
- Anderson hit his corner uppercut/running kick combo, then tagged back to Gallows do a double team flapjack
CIMA got the hot tag and tried to spark another comeback, dodging a double clothesline and hitting a shotgun dropkick on both men. CIMA then went wild – throwing strikes and kicks that popped the chest of both Gallows and Anderson. CIMA moved like a wild man – hitting anything and everything that moved!
CIMA dropped Anderson with a roundhouse to the head and stunned Gallows with a leaping knee strike to the jaw!
Feeling the momentum, CIMA went to the top and leapt for a high crossbody.............
ANDERSON SNATCHED HIM OUT OF MIDAIR AND NAILED A GUN STUN!
T-Hawk tried to save it – but Gallows LEVELED him with a Yakuza Kick!
Gallows & Anderson hit the Magic Killer on CIMA!
1....
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3.........................
ANDERSON SNATCHED HIM OUT OF MIDAIR AND NAILED A GUN STUN!
T-Hawk tried to save it – but Gallows LEVELED him with a Yakuza Kick!
Gallows & Anderson hit the Magic Killer on CIMA!
1....
2..........
3.........................
Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows (9:00)
Strong TV reintroduction to tag team work of Anderson & Gallows. They look good, moved well, and finished strong. They took 70% of the match. Their double-team sequences were crisp and well-timed.
#StrongHearts gave them just enough friction, but they came in cold. The crowd enjoys their work, and they are good hands.
#StrongHearts gave them just enough friction, but they came in cold. The crowd enjoys their work, and they are good hands.
The Club stood tall after the match. As their music hit, they raised their arms together and stared into the hard camera. No wasted motion. All business.
A promo aired for Ignition’s move to Tuesday nights, beginning on October 1.
The package began with quick cuts:
- Kenny Omega hitting a V-Trigger
- Cody executing the Cross Rhodes
- Tessa Blanchard staring into the camera
- Jon Moxley hitting the Death Rider DDT
- Will Ospreay flipping through the air
- Crowds losing their minds
The graphic for WSW Ignition: Season Premiere, October 1st appears as the sound of crowds chanting, “WSW, WSW, WSW” is heard.
This segment will incorporate the real-life injury of Rachael Ellering. The goal of this Be The Booker has always been to write this as “real time.” Essentially, what would happen if WSW was actually a real company. Ellering tore her ACL in July of 2019. I hate writing about injuries, but we will incorporate it here.
As Ignition returns, the lights go dark, and Wicked Ways kicks in. The crowd boos as Candice LeRae and Rachael Ellering walk on the stage.
Candice is smug, sauntering down the ramp wearing the brass knuckles she used to slug Ivelisse with last week. They climb into the ring. Candice grabs a microphone:
The crowd booed, and Rachael mockingly tapped her temple to show that they outsmarted their opponents. Candice continued:
Candice held her hand high, the lights gleaming off the brass knuckles.........
The crowd cheered as Ivelisse and Mercedes Martinez charged down to the ring – no hesitation, they were here to fight! Mauro Ranallo said:
Ivelisse went straight for Candice and Mercedes lunged at Ellering. All four women brawled inside and outside the ring. Fists flew. Chaos was flowing in Charlotte!
Candice raked the eyes of Ivelisse on the outside and reared back with the brass knuckles....she swung..........
IVELISSE DUCKED AND HIT A ROUNDHOUSE KICK THAT SENT CANDICE OVER THE GUARDRAIL INTO THE FIRST ROW!
Ivelisse climbed to the top of the guardrail and JUMPED on Candice into the crowd. All hell had broken loose!
Meanwhile, Ellering and Martinez were brawling at ringside. Ellering grabbed a chair at ringside.......
BAM!
Ellering threw the chair into the face of Martinez!
Martinez staggered back from the blow. Ellering charged around the corner of the ring, looking for a SPEAR...........as she turned the corner, she FELL mid-stride, and cried out in pain!
Mauro Ranallo said:
The camera cut wide, as Ellering grabbed her knee on the floor mats. Candice LeRae and Ivelisse continued to brawl through the crowd as the cameras avoided showing Ellering up close. Ignition went to commercial as referees and medical staff ran down to check on her.
A video package aired, featuring highlights of the Four Way tag match at SummerFest to crown a Number One Contender. We see highlights of The Von Erichs, hitting the Yellow Rose of Texas. Before the three count, RUSH and Dragon Lee pulled them out of the ring – ruining the moment.
The video cuts to Marshall & Ross Von Erich backstage. Marshall stepped forward:
Quick shots of Dragon Lee nailing Ross with a tope suicida are shown. Ross said:
Marshall stepped forwards – his voice rising:
Ross nodded:
A video promo aired.
Inside a dark, low-lit room, the WSW World Championship rested on a table. Light flickered slowly across the gold plating. We hear Kenny Omega’s voice begin as the camera slowly panned upward to find him seated beside it.
Kenny Omega stood and placed the belt over his shoulder:
As camera cut back inside the Bojangles Coliseum, we went to the announce table where Mauro Ranallo said:
The announcers previewed the card for next week:
- WSW Intercontinental Championship: Bandido vs. Cody (c)
- 2019 Grand Prix Block Announcement
- Von Erichs vs. LFI
- Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D. In Action
- Deonna Purrazzo vs. Tenille Dashwood
- Trios Match: Hart Foundation vs. Black Arrow
- WSW World Tag Team Championship: The Hart Foundation vs. Death Busters (c)
- WSW Women’s World Championship: Either Io Shirai/Kay Lee Ray vs. Tessa Blanchard (c)
Match Six: Number One Contender’s Match – Kay Lee Ray vs. Io Shirai
The sixth match of Ignition was a singles match to name a Number One Contender for the Women’s World Championship between Kay Lee Ray and Io Shirai.
Tessa Blanchard made her entrance and joined commentary for the match. Tenille Dashwood and Nixon sat casually next to the desk – Tenille chewing gum, Nixon kicking her feet up on the table. Tessa said:
The crowd buzzed as the bell rang. KLR and Io Shirai circled one another and exchanged a fist bump in respect.
They moved at lightning speed – counters, arm drags, headscissors, and kip ups. Neither woman held the advantage until Shirai landed a springboard arm drag and a basement dropkick.
KLR reset and rallied back with a flurry – landing a stiff palm strike and brutal spinning back kick to Shirai’s ribs. She followed with a snap suplex, followed by another, and capped with a fisherman’s suplex...
1...
2....
Kick Out!
They moved at lightning speed – counters, arm drags, headscissors, and kip ups. Neither woman held the advantage until Shirai landed a springboard arm drag and a basement dropkick.
KLR reset and rallied back with a flurry – landing a stiff palm strike and brutal spinning back kick to Shirai’s ribs. She followed with a snap suplex, followed by another, and capped with a fisherman’s suplex...
1...
2....
Kick Out!
Both women scrambled to their feet, and KLR tried a Northern Lights Suplex, but Shirai blocked with piston-like knee strikes to the midsection. A snap hurricanrana by Shirai sent KLR through the ropes to the floor.
Io gave her no room to recover. She dashed across the ring, and dove through with a tope suicida that hit perfectly! The crowd cheered.
Shirai threw KLR back inside and climbed to the top rope. She went for a diving hurricanrana.......
KLR BLOCKED AND POWERED SHIRAI UP........
LIGER BOMB!
1...
2.........
KICK OUT!
KLR put the pressure on – she nailed a running penalty kick to the spine and followed with a PK TO CHEST! The impact was sick! COVER!
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KICK OUT!
KLR pressed the advantage, she whipped Shirai into the corner and followed with a shotgun dropkick! In one motion she yanked Shirai up and tossed her with a T-Bone Suplex!
KLR was on fire! She roared in passion and went for the Gory Bomb.....
Shirai escaped and countered with a DDT!
Both women staggered to their feet. With a war cry, Shirai peppered KLR with a palm strikes. KLR cut it off with a HARD forearm to the jaw! KLR wound up for a massive lariat, but Io hit a pump kick to the arm to block the move and followed with a Codebreaker!
The recoil of the move sent KLR draping over the middle rope.......TIGER FEINT KICK (619) connected!
With the crowd cheering, Io climbed to the rope. She called for the moonsault, but KLR rolled to the outside to escape the move. Io didn’t hesitate.............
MOONSAULT TO THE FLOOR!
The crowd EXPLODED, rising in unison.
Io slapped the floor mats, firing herself up and the crowd.
Shirai threw KLR back into the ring and hit a missile dropkick from the top!
1....
2.................
KICK OUT!
Tessa Blanchard was quiet on commentary, her eyes narrowed.
Shirai dragged KLR to a vertical base, and KLR nailed a forearm – seemingly out of instinct. Shirai followed with a palm strike. The two women went back and forth with strikes, the intensity grow.
KLR went for a discus forearm, but Shirai ducked and landed a snap German Suplex!
KLR popped to her feet and NAILED a spinning heel kick!
Both women went down!
The crowd stood and applauded!
Io gave her no room to recover. She dashed across the ring, and dove through with a tope suicida that hit perfectly! The crowd cheered.
Shirai threw KLR back inside and climbed to the top rope. She went for a diving hurricanrana.......
KLR BLOCKED AND POWERED SHIRAI UP........
LIGER BOMB!
1...
2.........
KICK OUT!
KLR put the pressure on – she nailed a running penalty kick to the spine and followed with a PK TO CHEST! The impact was sick! COVER!
1.....
2......................
KICK OUT!
KLR pressed the advantage, she whipped Shirai into the corner and followed with a shotgun dropkick! In one motion she yanked Shirai up and tossed her with a T-Bone Suplex!
KLR was on fire! She roared in passion and went for the Gory Bomb.....
Shirai escaped and countered with a DDT!
Both women staggered to their feet. With a war cry, Shirai peppered KLR with a palm strikes. KLR cut it off with a HARD forearm to the jaw! KLR wound up for a massive lariat, but Io hit a pump kick to the arm to block the move and followed with a Codebreaker!
The recoil of the move sent KLR draping over the middle rope.......TIGER FEINT KICK (619) connected!
With the crowd cheering, Io climbed to the rope. She called for the moonsault, but KLR rolled to the outside to escape the move. Io didn’t hesitate.............
MOONSAULT TO THE FLOOR!
The crowd EXPLODED, rising in unison.
Io slapped the floor mats, firing herself up and the crowd.
Shirai threw KLR back into the ring and hit a missile dropkick from the top!
1....
2.................
KICK OUT!
Tessa Blanchard was quiet on commentary, her eyes narrowed.
Shirai dragged KLR to a vertical base, and KLR nailed a forearm – seemingly out of instinct. Shirai followed with a palm strike. The two women went back and forth with strikes, the intensity grow.
KLR went for a discus forearm, but Shirai ducked and landed a snap German Suplex!
KLR popped to her feet and NAILED a spinning heel kick!
Both women went down!
The crowd stood and applauded!
Both women got to their feet, and KLR whipped Shirai into the corner. She charged, but Shirai caught her with a release overhead belly to belly into the turnbuckles!
KLR arched her back in pain on the cerulean blue canvas. Shirai climbed to the top rope and flew......
MOONSAULT......
NO!
KLR MOVED AND SHIRAI CRASHED AND BURNED!
KLR pooped up and hoisted Shirai up.......
GORY BOM...........
NO!
BACKSLIDE!
SHIRAI COUNTERED WITH A BACKSLIDE!
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KLR arched her back in pain on the cerulean blue canvas. Shirai climbed to the top rope and flew......
MOONSAULT......
NO!
KLR MOVED AND SHIRAI CRASHED AND BURNED!
KLR pooped up and hoisted Shirai up.......
GORY BOM...........
NO!
BACKSLIDE!
SHIRAI COUNTERED WITH A BACKSLIDE!
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Io Shirai (13:06)
This delivered exactly what we wanted – legitimate emotion that built momentum for both women. Io Shirai was ready, and KLR looked like a warrior.
The finish was designed to once again condition our audience that this is a fight – it's not just about finishers. This also shows Io’s wrestling IQ and protects KLR.
Tessa is fantastic as the “final boss” of the women’s division.
The finish was designed to once again condition our audience that this is a fight – it's not just about finishers. This also shows Io’s wrestling IQ and protects KLR.
Tessa is fantastic as the “final boss” of the women’s division.
Io Shirai sat up, stunned but smiling. The crowd erupted. Kay Lee Ray rolled to her knees, disappointment was all over her face. Still, she recognized the moment and extended a hand. Io accepted and the two women hugged in the ring as the crowd applauded.
Blanchard threw her headset down, and Tenille Dashwood and Nixon Newell charged down the ramp --- they BLINDSIDED IO SHIRAI AND KLR!
The beat down began – knees, stomps, and fists.
The Women’s World Champion came down to the ring, jeers escorting her the entire way.
Io Shirai tried to fight back, but she was dropped by a kick from Tessa Blanchard. KLR charged at Nixon Newell, but Newell dropped her with a wicked kick to the sternum!
Deonna Purrazzo sprinted down to the ring!
She slid in and dropped Tenille Dashwood with a bicycle kick! Deonna hit a judo throw on Nixon Newell!
BUZZSAW KICK TO NEWELL FROM IO SHIRAI!
Tessa Blanchard was all alone!
The World Champion looked at Shirai, Purrazzo, and Kay Lee Ray – her plan had backfired........
Tessa scrambled out the ring, avoiding further contact! She clutched the Women’s World Championship to her chest and backed away with calculated calm.
Io Shirai stood tall in the corner, pointing at Tessa Blanchard and the World Championship belt as the new Number One Contender!
Paige Knight closed out this episode of Ignition:
Blanchard threw her headset down, and Tenille Dashwood and Nixon Newell charged down the ramp --- they BLINDSIDED IO SHIRAI AND KLR!
The beat down began – knees, stomps, and fists.
The Women’s World Champion came down to the ring, jeers escorting her the entire way.
Io Shirai tried to fight back, but she was dropped by a kick from Tessa Blanchard. KLR charged at Nixon Newell, but Newell dropped her with a wicked kick to the sternum!
Deonna Purrazzo sprinted down to the ring!
She slid in and dropped Tenille Dashwood with a bicycle kick! Deonna hit a judo throw on Nixon Newell!
BUZZSAW KICK TO NEWELL FROM IO SHIRAI!
Tessa Blanchard was all alone!
The World Champion looked at Shirai, Purrazzo, and Kay Lee Ray – her plan had backfired........
Tessa scrambled out the ring, avoiding further contact! She clutched the Women’s World Championship to her chest and backed away with calculated calm.
Io Shirai stood tall in the corner, pointing at Tessa Blanchard and the World Championship belt as the new Number One Contender!
Paige Knight closed out this episode of Ignition:
Results
No. | Results | Stipulations | Time |
1 | Jon Moxley def. Alan Angels | Singles match | 1:09 |
2 | Lucha Brothers (Fenix & Pentagon Jr.) (w/ Konnan) def. South Pacific Power Trip (Travis Banks & TK Cooper) (w/ Dahlia Black) | Tag team match | 8:35 |
3 | Sammy Guevara def. Myron Reed, Jungle Boy & Ace Austin | Four way match | 10:00 |
4 | Trevor Lee def. Andrew Everett | Singles match | 9:08 |
5 | Karl Anderson & Doc Gallows (w/ AJ Styles) def. #StrongHearts (CIMA & T-Hawk) | Tag team match | 9:00 |
6 | Io Shirai def. Kay Lee Ray | Singles match | 13:06 |
Where was Dr. Britt Baker, D.M.D this week it was a big week for her last week and no promo or interview?