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August 8, 2016 - Honda Center - Anaheim, California
The voices of Michael Cole, Corey Graves and Byron Saxton welcomed everyone to the show after the opening video for Monday Night Raw. Just thirteen nights away from Summerslam, tonight we will preview the Universal Championship match for the event with two contests: Roman Reigns versus Finn Balor and Seth Rollins versus Bray Wyatt. Plus, 'The Beast Incarnate' Brock Lesnar blindsided 'The Viper' Randy Orton on Smackdown Live last week and tonight will be live on Raw to address his opponent at the biggest party of the summer. Kicking things off, however, the WWE Tag Team Championship would be on the line!
1. WWE Tag Team Championship: The New Day (w/Xavier Woods) (c) def. Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson (13:29) | A tough outing from the two teams, Gallows and Anderson came up short on multiple occasions. The Magic Killer nearly putting Kingston away, a hot run by Big E after a tag would eventually lead to The Midnight Hour being nailed on Anderson to earn them the pinfall.
Amidst a celebration for the WWE Tag Team Champions, Smackdown Live's The Usos would make their way out from the back. The number one contenders set to face The New Day at Summerslam would enter the ring and exchange some words with the champions before ripping the belts out of the hands of Big E and Kingston. Admiring the gold, Jimmy and Jey would then hand the titles back, motioning for them around their waist after. A subtle message from the next challengers.
Walking in the back, number one contender to the Intercontinental Championship Dolph Ziggler was seen headed to the ring. He was set to address becoming the new number one contender and champion The Miz after the break.
Seen walking backstage was Paul Heyman when approached by Tom Phillips, asking if Brock Lesnar was here yet and when we'd be hearing from them. Heyman would laugh in Phillips' face, telling him that Lesnar will be here when he wants to be here. "As I've said before, Brock shows up where he wants, when he wants. He doesn't run on anyone else's time."
Back inside of the arena, Dolph Ziggler's music hit and 'The Show Off' would head down to the ring. A microphone in his hand, Ziggler would speak about having plenty of ups and downs throughout his career, speaking of coming up and being viewed as a joke and having to reinvent himself just to be taken seriously enough to get on TV. He'd bring up working his way to becoming a champion, even the World Heavyweight Champion. "As great as it is to be a World Champion, I've always had my eye on being the Intercontinental Champion. The greatest Intercontinental Champion." He'd express watching for years of the workhorses holding that championship and admiring being the backbone of what takes place in the ring night in and night out. He said how he's held that title four times and it has meant the world every time and he wants it back and he plans to take it back at Summerslam.
Ziggler's passionate speech would be interrupted by The Miz himself, the Intercontinental Champion arriving with his wife Maryse. The couple would come to the ring with Miz chuckling in Ziggler's face, telling him that it was really cute how he is inspired by the likes of 'Macho Man' Randy Savage, Shawn Michaels, Bret Hart - but the reality is that the most inspirational Intercontinental Champion of all time was himself. "That's right! Me! The Miz!" Boos would rain down as Miz would continue to make his case for how great he is. Ziggler would retort by saying that Miz is exactly the type of guy he wouldn't look up to. "The only thing that you inspire me to do, Mikey, is kick your ass and take away the Intercontinental Championship!" Miz would go to say something back but stop himself and instead strike Ziggler in the head with his microphone! The champion would then flee from the ring with Maryse caught off guard, barely keeping up with him as Ziggler would stand back up with an angry glare. "No running at Summerslam!" He'd yell up the ramp as Miz would continue to back down while raising his title over his head in response.
2. Braun Strowman def. Jorrel Anderson (1:22) | As perhaps expected at this point, Strowman would manhandle the local Anderson. After toying around a bit, Braun would put things away with a running powerslam and get the three count.
Standing backstage was Tom Phillips with Seth Rollins, bringing up last week's main event where after winning their match, Wyatt would lay Rollins out with Sister Abigail. Rollins would immediately get worked up, saying that what Wyatt did last week was completely uncalled for. He'd complain about not being able to communicate with Bray as his tag team partner all night long and still being able to carry the dead weight as tag team partners en route to victory. "And after all of that... Bray still hit me with Sister Abigail. What the hell is that?!" Rollins shook his head, saying that he'd have his one-on-one in mere minutes with Wyatt and sought revenge, vowing to not only beat Wyatt tonight but him, Finn Balor and Roman Reigns at Summerslam where he'd become the first ever Universal Champion.
3. Bray Wyatt def. Seth Rollins (15:05)| A hard-hitting back-and-forth between these two men, Rollins would be stunned when Wyatt kicked out of a Pedigree. A second attempt at one would end up being reversed with Wyatt launching Rollins face first into the ring post before delivering Sister Abigail and getting the pinfall.
Emerging to his knees after the bell, Wyatt would look down at Rollins before retrieving a microphone from ringside. "You wanted to find me, Seth," He'd say with a laugh. "But be careful what you wish for... call my name and I will not be responsible for what happens when I arrive... sincerely, your Universal Champion..." He'd bellow out more laughter before dropping the microphone at his side, hands held out wide.
Standing in the ring out of the break was The Shining Stars and Carlito. The latter held a microphone in his hand as he said that he came back to WWE because he was tired of watching his brother and his cousin not live up to their family name. He stated he was embarrassed to see them inviting people to Puerto Rico like it was their job. "Your job is to represent The Colóns!" To the dismay of Epico and Primo, Carlito would take their pamphlets from their hands and rip them up right in front of them. Carlito would ask them if they think they're ever going to get anywhere by trying to sell timeshares rather than focus on being a great team. He'd express their advantage of being family unlike teams such as The New Day and American Alpha. Carlito would then take a bite out of his apple only to be interrupted by the music of American Alpha.
Chad Gable and Jason Jordan would come down to the ring, taking exception to Carlito thinking that they aren't family. "We look just like brothers, don't we?" Gable would ask to laughter. Jordan would say maybe not, but they've been together practically every day for two years now, working day in and day out with the goal in mind to reach the top of this division, not selling timeshares on the side. Giving a slap on Carlito's back, Gable would cause the veteran to choke on the apple he just bit into. Apologizing, Chad would say it was an accident, but they just wanted to make it clear that they do not want to be taken lightly and they'll continue to prove their worth because they are 'ready, willing and Gable'. Clearing his throat, Carlito would say that The Colóns were ready, willing and... he'd lose his train of thought, instead biting into his apple again and spitting in Jordan's face! Gable would then dive with a take down. Epico and Primo would jump into the mix and beat down Jordan and Gable, throwing them individually into separate ring posts shoulder first. Carlito would not in approval of the efforts, pulling Gable out of the corner and delivering a backstabber. Jordan would then come back to a legsweep and enzuigiri combination. The trio would then stand together over American Alpha, Carlito nodding in approval to his brother and cousin, seeming to have finally gotten something out of them after the past few weeks.
Backstage, Darren Young was seen sitting in the locker room on his phone when approached by Apollo Crews. Crews would ask how Bob Backlund was doing with Young explaining that Bob's alright, but he won't be around for a while, and he doesn't know what that means for his future. Crews shrugs his shoulders and says that as someone that was also unsure about his future, he took a shot on something. Walking in from behind would be MVP, a smile on his face while placing a hand on Crews' shoulder. "Darren, Darren, Darren," He'd say. "You didn't happen to call after I gave you my card last week! In case you lost it, here's another one." After presenting Young with a new one, he'd say not to hesitate, but if he needs more convincing to watch Apollo's upcoming match. MVP and Crews would then exit the room, leaving Darren with his thoughts and slapping the card against his hand.
4. Apollo Crews (w/MVP) def. Heath Slater (2:04) | Despite attempts from Slater, Crews seemed extra motivated with MVP in his corner. After giving a splash in the corner, MVP would give a signal by throwing his hands across his body in order to say 'it's over'. Crews would then nail a spin-out powerbomb and cover Slater for the pinfall victory.
In the back, Roman Reigns would be making his way through the back and toward the ring when he was approached by Tom Phillips. Ahead of his first ever match with Finn Balor, Phillips would ask about Reigns' preparation. Roman would admit the talent and capabilities of Balor, but he has no concerns. Reigns stated that last week the two had some miscommunication and it led to them being on the losing end of their tag team match, but now it'd be one-on-one tonight. "Last week, Finn said that I may be 'the guy' but he was going to be the Universal Champion... I don't usually make guarantees, but I'll make one right now: He won't be. And tonight, I'm gonna give him a preview of some of what he's dealing with come Summerslam." Reigns would then continue on his way for his match coming up after the break.
5. Finn Balor def. Roman Reigns (19:10) | In a super competitive bout, each man come up close time and time again. A Superman Punch followed by a Spear had Balor get his foot on the bottom rope, frustrating 'The Big Dog'. After some further exchange between the two and a second Spear attempt from Reigns, Balor side-stepped him and nailed a dropkick into the corner. The Coup de Grace would follow, giving Balor the one, two, three and the statement victory.
Balor would celebrate the huge victory over the former three-time World Champion. Coming down from the turnbuckles amidst his celebration, he'd look to Reigns getting up against the ropes and extend his hand. Roman would look toward it but decide against accepting the gesture and instead leave the ring. Pausing halfway up the ramp, Roman would turn back toward the ring and give a small nod in Finn's direction.
Tom Phillips was once again backstage after the break, this time with Finn Balor. Phillips would ask about Reigns' lack of a handshake and Balor would scoff over it, saying if Roman wants to be a sore sport, then that's on him. "Because sore sport or not, Tom, that doesn't change who won the match. That doesn't change who wins the Universal Championship at Summerslam." Balor says that if he has to keep proving himself, that's fine, because all he has ever had to do is prove himself and he will continue until he's got that title around his waist.
In their office, Commissioner Stephanie McMahon and General Manager Mick Foley were seen watching their television, the latter pretty hyped about Balor's confidence. McMahon would agree he has been impressive but she's not done putting them to the test: Next week, we'll have Finn Balor versus Seth Rollins as well as Roman Reigns versus Bray Wyatt. Foley says he likes the sounds of that, but he also thinks they should shake things up with a mixed tag team match as well: The Miz and Charlotte versus Dolph Ziggler and Sasha Banks! McMahon agrees that is a great idea and asks Mick if he's ready to enjoy the rest of tonight's show. "Oh, I'm absolutely ready to enjoy the rest of tonight's show right here... in Anaheim, California!" He'd say with two thumbs up with the crowd cheering in the background inside the Honda Center.
Walking backstage in separate parts of the arena, Alberto Del Rio with Ricardo Rodriguez and Sami Zayn with the two set to compete against one another after a commercial break.
6. Alberto Del Rio (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) def. Sami Zayn (7:30) | A combination of technical and physical, a fast-paced contest with Zayn seeming to be on the verge of victory after a suplex into the corner and in perfect position for the Helluva Kick. Chris Jericho, however, would appear at ringside and grab Zayn by the ankle. Backing off, the two would argue with Del Rio taking advantage with a roll up and his feet on the ropes to steal the win.
Jericho smiled from the outside as Zayn kneeled against the ropes. Del Rio, meanwhile, celebrated the win as if he did everything on his own. Sami would then leave the ring and start following after Jericho toward the back!
Meanwhile backstage, Charlotte and Dana Brooke were seen talking with the prior saying that tonight would be a statement kind of night for Dana to show everything she has learned as a protege. "I want you to go out there and give Sasha a small preview of what she has coming for her when I beat her at Summerslam and get back my Women's Championship!" Brooke would appear confident, a match with 'The Boss' moments away.
A giant commotion backstage out of the break with Chris Jericho and Sami Zayn having to be held apart by officials. Zayn would question Jericho having a problem with him, 'Y2J' continuously shouting that he told Zayn he was going to get 'it'! Clearly, things between those two yet to be settled.
7. Non-Title Match: Women's Champion Sasha Banks def. Dana Brooke (w/Charlotte) (5:28) | Albeit putting forth her best effort, Brooke would have to cut some corners with Charlotte's assistance, but it'd prove to not be enough as Banks would end up shoving Brooke into Charlotte on the apron before putting her in the Bank Statement for the submission win.
Not even having a chance to be handed the Women's Championship title, Banks would be blasted with a boot to the face by Charlotte. 'The Queen' would take the title out of the hands of the official and hold it in Banks' face, shouting that it doesn't belong to 'The Boss'. A few more stomps, Charlotte would then order Brooke to hold Banks up before blasting her rival with a shot to the face with the championship! The boos would come down and fail to phase Charlotte, as she'd raise the title over her head, hoping that it will be the same image come Summerslam.
Seen backstage in the parking lot was Paul Heyman, a smile on his face as a black SUV would pull up. Opening the door, Heyman would express his excitement as presumably 'The Beast Incarnate' had arrived with everyone set to hear from him after a break.
The theme music of Brock Lesnar would bring the Anaheim crowd to their feet with Lesnar indeed arriving out to the stage with Paul Heyman. The duo would make their way down and into the ring, Heyman giving his usual long introduction to himself and his client. "Last week on Smackdown Live, Brock Lesnar showed up... from outta nowhere!" Boasting about blindsiding his Summerslam opponent, Randy Orton, Heyman would mention how he warned of Lesnar appearing out of nowhere and he did just that. He'd speak of how everyone is always worried about the RKO out of nowhere but the RKO is just one move - Lesnar is an entire entity himself! Heyman would speak about how everyone is talking about how we are in a new era, but Lesnar is not concerned about a new era. He thinks that a new era should be concerned about Lesnar because he isn't going to just fade into obscurity and let anyone pass him by. "Unlike Randy Orton," Heyman would utter. "Because when Brock Lesnar is done with him at Summerslam, whatever was left of 'The Viper' will be smashed into nothing!" He'd continue on by saying there is no fear of the RKO, because Lesnar has the F-5. There is no fear of Orton being a twelve-time World Champion, because Lesnar has beaten everyone that has crossed his path. There is no fear of Orton being a third-generation superstar, because Lesnar is a once in a lifetime superstar.
"So, I don't know if it's all those voices you apparently hear in your head, Randy, that are trying to tell you that you can beat Brock Lesnar. Because, if it is the voices you apparently hear, they're either lying to you or completely delusional because all you need to hear right now is my voice telling you that at Summerslam Brock Lesnar is going to beat your ass and drag you to down to suplex city!" A sly grin, Heyman would take a step forward and look straight into the camera, declaring that Orton's biggest weapon is the RKO but there is no chance he ends up even getting a chance to hit it, claiming he is not man enough nor will he ever be in position to hit Lesnar with it. The crowd would begin to buzz, however, as coming into the ring from behind was Randy Orton himself - catching Lesnar off guard and nailing the aforementioned RKO! As 'The Viper' taunted Heyman and stood over Lesnar's body, down from the back would come referees and officials with Mick Foley and Stephanie McMahon not far behind, clearly wanting to get a hold of the invading Smackdown Live superstar. Orton, however, would escape over the barricade and through the crowd, raising his arms up in signaturer fashion while looking down to the ring - Lesnar stirring and looking enraged as the show concluded!
August 9, 2016 - Rabobank Arena - Bakersfield, California
A look back on last week's epic encounter between John Cena and AJ Styles kicked things off. We now knew who would be heading to "the Biggest Party of the Summer" to challenge for Dean Ambrose's WWE Championship, thanks to none other than Baron Corbin. Yet as AJ stood victorious, "the Lunatic Fringe", as unpredictable as ever, emerged in the ring to issue his new number one contender with some Dirty Deeds.
SmackDown Live went on the air from beautiful Bakersfield, California, less than two weeks away from SummerSlam. As Mauro Ranallo, John Bradshaw Layfield and David Otunga ran down a stacked line-up including a tag team main event pitting the dream team combination of Dean Ambrose and John Cena against AJ Styles and Baron Corbin, Randy Orton would make his grand entrance to a big ovation.
Pep Talk | Looking on top of his game, "the Viper" was in peak physical condition despite how last week went down for him. With his first time ever battle with Brock Lesnar rapidly approaching, Randy looked back solemnly on how his WWE United States Championship efforts against Rusev would go dashed, thanks to "the Beast Incarnate". Following a replay on the big screen, Orton admitted he should have seen it coming. Brock was no joke, and that was nothing new. He had proven it each and every time he had taken WWE Superstars to Suplex City. He proved it when he ended the Streak of The Undertaker at WrestleMania XXX, and hurled John Cena into the sun back at SummerSlam 2013. He even showed Mark Hunt what he was all about after five years away from the Octagon, back at UFC 200. He certainly showed he himself last week, with his thunderous F-5. As Randy Orton remarked that this was going to be like none of those confrontations. In this first time ever collision between two men who had never before gone toe-to-toe in a WWE ring, he planned to give Brock Lesnar a fight or go down trying.
Daniel Bryan came out to the ring with some words of encouragement for Randy. The General Manager of SmackDown Live heard every word out of "the Viper's" mouth, but could hardly believe a word he was saying. He may have given Brock Lesnar a real fight last night on Monday Night Raw, but he had to question if this was the same guy who beat him with a kendo stick a few years ago until he couldn't feel his fingers. He couldn't believe this was the same "Apex Predator" who screwed him out of the WWE Championship time and time again, while dishing out a world of hurt he would never forget for the rest of his life. He couldn't believe this was the same sinister, disrespectful Judas who he looked in the eye and trusted him, just to have him jump him with his back turned. "The Yes Man" questioned what kind of individual he was anymore, because this couldn't be the guy headed into SummerSlam with "the Beat Incarnate!" Orton was growing frustrated, urging the GM to keep clear of his business, but Bryan responded by slapping him hard across the face!
Furious, Orton seethed at the disrespect shown, and told Daniel Bryan what he would love to do to him right now. The General Manager would retort, claiming he was glad and hoped he would, because it was what "the Viper" needed to hear. Bryan told Randy if he brought this guy to "the Biggest Party of the Summer", he would get his ass kicked and his testicles handed back to him on a silver platter by Brock Lesnar. Demanding to know what happened to "the Legend Killer", Bryan stated harshly that was who needed to survive SummerSlam - because if he didn't survive, there was no point ever showing his face back on SmackDown Live! Bryan stormed out of the ring, having issued the pep talk of a lifetime to "the Apex Predator". Taking time to absorb the wake-up call, Randy questioned the WWE Universe for their thoughts. Chanting in return, "the Viper" claimed there was no single part of him that had gone soft. If Bryan wanted to light a fire under him, then it was too late. He was steaming mad and hell bent on giving Brock not only the fight of his ever-loving life in less than two weeks - but giving "the Beast" hell like he had never seen before! For fifteen years they had beat around the bush, but at SummerSlam that ended. Randy Orton declared victory with confidence in twelve days - because only one was going to leave on their feet, and it wasn't going to beat Brock Lesnar.
Lana led her man, the WWE United States Champion Rusev through the halls with the Bulgarian flag draped over his shoulder. Renee Young approached the two for comment, but "the Bulgarian Brute" was quick to demand silence from the puny Canadian. Rusev did not want to even address his match with Randy Orton last week, claiming that he had beaten the one who would beat the one, behind the one in 21-1 - and that made SmackDown Live his brand! Fired up, Rusev claimed the title he held was like none other in WWE, because it was his and would stay his - because this was Rusev Country: and he was America personified. "The Ravishing Russian" nodded towards a speechless Renee, as the two were headed for the arena to spectate Sheamus and Cesaro battle - next.
Following the biggest victory of his short WWE career thus far, AJ Styles was having difficulties getting on the same page as Baron Corbin. The two men bickered about who would start the match in tonight's big tag team main event, when "the Phenomenal One" reminded Baron of who beat John Cena last week. Stumped, "the Lone Wolf" reminded the number one contender how that even came about. It was all thanks to him, because he was the rising star of SmackDown Live. AJ argued he was, because he was the one who would be the next WWE Champion when he dethroned Dean Ambrose. Corbin laughed about "the Lunatic Fringe" leaving him laying with the Dirty Deeds last week, though AJ reminded Baron of how Ambrose left him laying with Dirty Deeds two weeks ago! Finally reasoning their dislike for one another, AJ noted they shared a mutual hatred of the two knuckleheads supposedly leading "the Blue Brand" they were carrying. Coming to their feet, with a handshake, the two ruled that tonight they showed Dean and AJ who would be doing all of the heavy lifting around here in the future.
As he came down to the ring for his match with Sheamus, Cesaro appeared with some thoughts on "the Celtic Warrior" ahead of their match. Voicing interest in Rusev's WWE United States Championship as well, "the Swiss Superman" declared his intentions of being the man to take Rusev Country down.
1. Sheamus vs Cesaro ended in a no contest (10:19)| With Rusev and Lana watching from the announce desk, the two brutes in the ring battled in action with title implications, when they spilled out to the floor. "The Bulgarian Brute" was caught in the crosshairs of a Brogue Kick from Sheamus, intended for Cesaro. As the two battled back inside, "the Swiss Superman" received a cheap low blow from the Irishman, and an Irish Curse backbreaker followed. Suddenly the WWE United States Champion re-emerged with the Matchka Kick for Sheamus!
The WWE United States Champion plotted to show Sheamus and Cesaro whose country Rusev Country belonged to, as "the Bulgarian Brute" attempted the Accolade just to have "the Swiss Superman" battle out. The Cesaro Swing sent the champ sent to the floor, where he would be held back by Lana. Cesaro was coming for the gold!
The broadcast team speculated what was meant by Breezango hosting a "Fashion Run" tonight on SmackDown Live, before cutting to another vignette centered around Nia Jax. The NXT Superstar would arrive tonight - coming up next.
Following a video reviewing the chaos that unfolded as Monday Night Raw last night went off the air, with Randy Orton's invasion of "the Red Brand" against Brock Lesnar, Shane McMahon was seen on the phone backstage with a vexed Stephanie McMahon. The Commissioner of SmackDown Live held the phone away from his ear as his sister screamed down the phone at him, when the appearance of Kevin Owens saw him humorously hang up on her. Demanding to know what sense it made having him face Kane tonight, he reiterated that his business was with that Newcastle rat, Neville! Shane understood but urged the irate Canadian not to raise his voice. It only provoked KO further, as he demanded to know what kind of a show he was running here! Shane's eyes widened, as he warned him not to say another word, or risk having his situation made worse. Owens questioned how he would go about that, questioning if he was going to make it No-Disqualification. Shane shook his head, telling him that was exactly what he was going to do! Leaving the room, Owens remained baffled!
2. Nia Jax def. Britt Baker (2:11)| Having frequented NXT in dominant fashion for the better part of a year, Nia Jax made impeccably short work of young prospect Britt Baker. Flattening her with a sit-down reversal of a sunset flip, Jax splashed Baker in the corner before putting her away with the Samoan drop.
The newcomer was not finished there however, driving her massive leg into the anatomy of poor Britt Baker after the match. Nia Jax was out to make a statement to the SmackDown Live Women's Division, as a second one immediately followed. Becky Lynch made her way out to the ring, having witnessed enough. "The Lass Kicker" fearlessly confronted the imposing new force in the ring, though interestingly Jax decided to take a walk.
As the Usos' breakout win against the likes of Enzo Amore and Big Cass, the Dudley Boyz and Breezango on last week's show was recapped, Jimmy and Jey's confrontation with the WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day from Monday Night Raw last night was documented ahead of their meeting at "the Biggest Party of the Summer". Meanwhile, a graphic would advertise Enzo and Cass out for retribution after having the four-way tag team match stolen from them, against the Usos - tonight.
In his first WWE appearance in months, Kane marched the halls en route to the ring. As SmackDown Commissioner Shane McMahon set out to put Kevin Owens in his place, "the Big Red Monster" was set for No-Disqualification action against Kevin Owens in just a few moments.
The Champ's Address | The WWE Champion Dean Ambrose brandished the title on his shoulder as he leaned against a brick wall backstage. Speaking about his experiences of late, becoming champ was no easy walk in the park. It came after just shy of a decade of beating himself up for breadcrumbs, but that day was over. He had beaten his brethren Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns, he had beaten Baron Corbin - and last week it was confirmed he was about to beat AJ Styles. "The Lunatic Fringe" spoke about the news that he would team up with John Cena tonight - the living Legend himself! Ambrose spoke of the buzz around the SmackDown Live locker room - but this was no "dream team" to him. He saw John the same way he saw everybody else on this brand - out for the title on his shoulder. While he would play nice with John however, Dean let it be clear he was focusing on "the Phenomenal One" to see how good he truly was. He didn't see the hype, because all AJ had done since arriving to WWE was cry, moan and cheat. Ambrose explained the fight AJ could expect at SummerSlam, whether he wanted to admit how hard it would be or not. Ambrose said the title meant more to him than it did his own life, and he would prove that as he continued to be the man on top.
3. Kane def. Kevin Owens in a No-Disqualification match (6:25)| The irritability of Kevin Owens saw Kane bombard him before he had even arrived in the ring. "The Big Red Monster" ran through Owens in the early goings, when KO introduced a lead pipe. Later, a trash can and a stop sign would come into play, when the Canadian rattled the veteran by sending him into an exposed turnbuckle. Kane fought back, but as the end was nigh, Owens took a walk. Running his mouth, Owens would unexpectedly be sent back in by none other than Neville! It left the livid Owens open for the Chokeslam to grant Kane the win.
As "the Big Red Monster" erupted his pyrotechnics over the fallen body of Kevin Owens, Neville watched with a cheeky grin from the ringside area. "The Man That Gravity Forgot" continued to get under the skin of KO, but what price would the Brit have to pay when KO came to?
Alicia Fox was receiving the total works courtesy of the make-up artist backstage, all the while bragging about how beautiful she was. Claiming SmackDown Live would be hers for the taking, she believed nobody was going to come close to her. For so long she had been away from being Women's Champion, but that was going to end. Something about her reflection abruptly triggered the tightly-wound Superstar, bringing her to accuse the artist of applying so much blusher she was making her look like a soccer Mom! Fox confronted the artist, when in walked Carmella. "The Princess of Staten Island" told Foxy to step off, and dared to call Alicia deluded! Fox threw a tantrum and demanded to know who Carmella even was, bringing her to introduce herself - as the woman who would take her to the street tonight. 'Mella moonwalked away, leaving Fox irate.
Following costing Kevin Owens his No-Disqualification match with Kane, Renee Young greeted Neville backstage during the break. "The Man That Gravity Forgot" was asked for comment, and smirked knowingly. He knew Kevin Owens was going to come for him big time after that. Lucky for him, he was waiting for him. Neville showed the Canadian next week he was not about to be trifled with, and he was willing to show Owens that one more time again next week. Looking at the camera, the Englishman urged KO to really try this time!
Coming off their unexpected presence last night on Monday Night Raw, the Usos made an enthused entrance ahead of tag team action. After controversially backdooring themselves into being named number one contenders to the WWE Tag Team Championship last week, Jimmy and Jey were interrupted upon arrival in the ring by Enzo Amore and Big Cass. Roasting the Samoans, Enzo called the two playing a little too hard in the paint of late. Unimpressed with how they won, he called the twins a couple of sweetboys and implied there was a little more weird stuff going on than what met the eye! Cass told the Usos directly how he disapproved of their practice last week, but that tonight's win would assuredly put them back in the fold for a shot at the gold. Running through their catchphrase, Enzo called their foes SAWFT - and proclaimed themselves soon-to-be WWE Tag Team Champions.
4. The Usos def. Enzo Amore and Big Cass (5:32)| While the WWE Universe struggled to pick a side between the two teams of fan favorites, the Usos' treatment of Enzo Amore saw the people take to he and Big Cass. The smacktalkers from the Tri-State area had the people in the palms of their hands, as Cass made the hot tag and ran hot. Cass landed the East River Crossing, but in showboating and preparing Enzo for the Rocket Launcher, Jimmy and Jey would switch positions! Twin Magic of the Samoan variety was on display, as Enzo missed the splash from Cass's shoulders. With a handful of tights, Jey got the victory.
The Usos were enthralled with their win, to the chagrin of Big Cass. Arguing with the official about Jimmy and Jey hoodwinking them a second straight week in a row, Enzo Amore would furiously chew out the Samoans on their cheating ways. Perhaps disrespectfully, the Usos would respond with a double super kick leaving the loudmouth New Jersey unconscious! The Usos bailed from Cass's wrath, sure to be walking into SummerSlam with high hopes of The New Day's year-long reign as WWE Tag Team Champions.
The WWE United States Champion Rusev ranted and raved to Lana in the dressing room, still furious about the disrespect Cesaro had shown to "the Great American". Rusev proclaimed this was still Rusev Country so long as he held his title. In walked the General Manager of SmackDown Live Daniel Bryan, impressed at "the Bulgarian Brute's" moxy to not just proclaim "the Blue Brand" his for the taking - but to sabotage a perfectly gripping match between Cesaro and Sheamus! Rusev threatened to crush the little "Yes Man", but Bryan told him that would be ill-advised. Yet since Rusev liked to get involved in things, he was going to go ahead and give him his match for SummerSlam. Since he liked to meddle, Bryan wanted Rusev to stand loud and proud for "his" country - against both Cesaro and Sheamus in a Triple Threat match! The GM departed, bringing the Bulgarian to scream and holler in his native language, all while "the Ravishing Russian" complained!
Mauro Ranallo, John Bradshaw Layfield and David Otunga discussed the breaking news about the WWE United States Championship Triple Threat match made for SummerSlam, before shifting gears to discuss Randy Orton and Brock Lesnar's first time ever confrontation at "the Biggest Party of the Summer". A video package aired, providing a visual Tale of the Tape glimpse into the history of the two men who once shared a class in Ohio Valley Wrestling - beside the likes of John Cena and Batista - before going on to become WWE Superstars and later, WWE Champions who would headline WrestleMania.
5. Carmella def. Alicia Fox (4:05)| The slightly unhinged Alicia Fox tried her luck with the less experienced "Princess of Staten Island", but Carmella would catch her from the second rope with the Princess Kick to claim the victory.
Carmella impressed in her SmackDown Live in-ring debut, though "the Princess of Staten Island" would soon be interrupted by the arrival of Nia Jax! After her own impressive debut earlier tonight, "the Imposing Force" marched to the ring with a cool smile directed towards the New Yorker. 'Mella put her money where her mouth was, throwing haymakers at Jax, when ambushed by Alicia Fox. Becky Lynch would look to rush the ring to her aid, only to be attacked by a woman in a hoody - revealed to be none other than her nemesis, Natalya! A three-on-two attack rendered "the Lass Kicker" and Carmella motionless, as a dominant trio took centre stage of the Women's Division.
Fandango was observing his mirror reflection backstage, adorned in a bright purple gown covering whatever wear modeled beneath. Up walked Tyler Breeze, who snapped a selfie of the two of them before asking if 'Dango was ready for their fifteen minutes of fame. Breezango strutted the hall en route to the arena - ahead of whatever on earth the Breezango Fashion Run was going to be.
Following her dramatic return to the WWE last week, Eva Marie was about to prove the vitality of All Red Everything. A vignette aired showcasing the redhead's gorgeous nature, with clips from E!'s Total Divas celebrating her. Now back on SmackDown Live, who knew what the WWE Universe could expect from "the Most Beautiful Woman on Planet Earth".
Breezango's Fashion Ruin | SmackDown Live ring announcer Greg Hamilton introduced the Breezango Fashion Run, to the negative heckles and boos of the Bakersfield crowd. Quick to assert that this was entirely Tyler Breeze and Fandango's idea, he would go on to introduce Breezango in a dramatic presentation. Firstly walked Tyler Breeze, revealing white tights, designer sunglasses and a tassled jacket. Looking fresh as ever, "Prince Pretty" retained the furry boots, as he swaggered to the ring when joined by Fandango. Shirtless, wearing black leather pants and a fishnet shirt to reveal his physique, 'Dango looked ready to be dirty as the two entered the ring and posed together. The WWE Universe booed the flamboyant team loudly, bringing Breeze to finally take to the microphone and demand their respect! Fandango ordered silence from the people, only wishing to hear compliments on their impeccable bodies and fashion sense.
Unexpectedly, out walked the Dudley Boyz in casual wear! Bubba Ray Dudley sported a baseball jersey with a baseball cap, whilst D-Von Dudley joined him in a T-shirt and shorts. The veteran tag team sported their trademark glasses, much to the chagrin of Breezango. The Dudleys received a proud ovation from the people, who questioned the duo on their performance. Breeze was appalled by their get-up, let alone their gatecrashing - though Bubba couldn't understand why Fandango came dressed as a firefighter - or why Breeze came as a member of NSYNC! 'Dango resented the Dudleys' assessment of their fashion expertise, proposing a pose off - right there and then! The Dudleys accepted, wishing for Breeze and 'Dango to lead the way. Extravagantly, the two posed together under a spotlight, with Fandango crouching beneath the legs of "Prince Pretty!" Choicely, the two mocked D-Von and Bubba, challenging them to do one better. The Dudleyville natives braced for their fifteen seconds of posing - only to instead bring the fight to Breezango. Quickly running them from the ring, the WWE Universe would embrace "the Camouflage Kings" - who had ruined the Fashion Run of Breezango.
The time was near for the tag team main event. WWE Champion Dean Ambrose cut about the backstage area, before feasting his eyes on his partner. In a dream team scenario, "the Lunatic Fringe" was faced by a determined John Cena. Simply stating that Dean didn't need to like him or respect him - all he had to do was trust him. Cena proposed they beat Baron Corbin and AJ Styles' butts tonight, to which Dean snorted and told John that worked for him.
Mauro Ranallo, John Bradshaw Layfield and David Otunga discussed SummerSlam in less than two weeks, with a major addition to the line-up: John Cena looking to get his hands on Baron Corbin one-on-one! Moving on to discuss SmackDown Live next week, Neville would meet Kevin Owens in a rematch from last week; Breezango would be out for revenge against the Dudley Boyz; Natalya and Alicia Fox would meet Becky Lynch and Carmella; and the New Day would appear live to meet their challengers to the WWE Tag Team Championships the Usos.
6. AJ Styles and Baron Corbin def. WWE Champion Dean Ambrose and John Cena (13:29)| The dream team of John Cena and Dean Ambrose worked cohesively for the majority of the match, against the combined forces of the two men they would meet at "the Biggest Party of the Summer". After an extended period of ganging up on him, "the Lunatic Fringe" fired back and tagged in "Big Match John". The Five Moves of Doom were in effect, when in snuck "the Lone Wolf" with Deep Six. All out carnage unfolded including the referee going sent flying, when "the Phenomenal One" introduced a steel chair. Ambrose was able to snatch it from his challenger - but inadvertently drilled Cena with the chair! The miscommunication saw AJ low blow the WWE Champion, when Corbin landed the End of Days atop the chair - to pick up the biggest win of his young career!
John Cena had been beaten by Baron Corbin in what had to be the upset of the year, and "the Lone Wolf" celebrated famously. AJ Styles was not yet done with Dean Ambrose however, continuing his attack against the WWE Champion at ringside. "The Lunatic Fringe" tried to fight back, only to be cut off with a drop toe hold into the steel steps. Revealing a second steel chair, "the Phenomenal One" relentlessly swung the chair against the legs of the champion - before taking a seat on it backwards, as he sat on top of the champ. Was this a sign of things to come at SummerSlam?