A.J. and DTP Present: WWE 2016 (Smackdown Live 8/9)

[A.J.]

 

[A.J.]

Raw Commissioner: Stephanie McMahon
Raw General Manager: Mick Foley
Commentaors: Byron Saxton, Corey Graves, Michael Cole
Ring Announcer: JoJo
Backstage Interviewer: Tom Phillips

WWE Universal Champion: To Be Determined
WWE Women's Champion: Sasha Banks (since July 25, 2016)
WWE Intercontinental Champion: The Miz (since April 4, 2016)
WWE Tag Team Champions: The New Day (since August 23, 2015)

Alberto Del Rio - Alexa Bliss - Apollo Crews - Big E - Big Show - Bob Backlund - Bo Dallas - Braun Strowman - Bray Wyatt - Carlito - Chad Gable - Charlotte - Chris Jericho - Curtis Axel
Dana Brooke - Darren Young - Dolph Ziggler - Epico - Finn Balor - Goldust - Heath Slater - Jack Swagger - Jason Jordan - Karl Anderson - Kofi Kingston - Lana - Luke Gallows
Mark Henry - Maryse - Mojo Rawley - Naomi - Primo - R-Truth - Ricaro Rodriguez - Roman Reigns - Sami Zayn - Sasha Banks - Seth Rollins - Sin Cara - Summer Rae - The Miz - Titus O'Neil - Xavier Woods - Zack Ryder​

 

[DTP]

Smackdown Live Commissioner: Shane McMahon
Smackdown Live General Manager: Daniel Bryan
Commentators: David Otunga, JBL, Mauro Ranallo
Ring Announcer: Greg Hamilton
Backstage Interviewer: Renee Young

WWE Champion: Dean Ambrose (since June 19, 2016)
WWE United States Champion: Rusev (since May 22, 2016)

AJ Styles - Alicia Fox - Aiden English - Baron Corbin - Becky Lynch - Big Cass - Bubba Ray Dudley - Carmella - Cesaro - D-Von Dudley - Dean Ambrose - Enzo Amore - Erick Rowan - Eva Marie - Fandango - Jey Uso - Jimmy Uso - John Cena - Kalisto - Kane - Kevin Owens - Konnor - Lana - Natalya - Neville - Nia Jax - Paige - Randy Orton - Rusev - Sheamus - Simon Gotch - Tyler Breeze- Viktor​

 

[A.J.]

July 19, 2016 - DCU Center - Worcester, MA

The WWE Draft: A new era with an open landscape, set to divide the roster going forward to form two unique experiences each and every week going forward. The staple and flagship show of WWE, Monday Night Raw, continues on while headed by Commissioner Stephanie McMahon and General Manager Mick Foley. Meanwhile, a new era for the blue brand as Smackdown Live begins next week on Tuesday nights with Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan occupying the Commissioner and General Manager roles, respectively. Shocking the entire WWE Universe and locker room, Stephanie would declare the currently suspended Roman Reigns as the number one pick with stunning confidence. Shane and Daniel, baffled themselves, gladly countered with the current WWE Champion, Dean Ambrose. To complete the trio of Shield members, Raw would bring 'The Architect' Seth Rollins into the fold. The fifteen-time World Champion John Cena would head back to where he began his career on Smackdown, while Raw would claim stakes to the Women's Champion, Charlotte.

Round 1, Pick 1: Raw - Roman Reigns
Round 1, Pick 2: Smackdown - Dean Ambrose (WWE Champion)
Round 1, Pick 3: Raw - Seth Rollins
Round 1, Pick 4: Smackdown - John Cena
Round 1, Pick 5: Raw - Charlotte (Women's Champion)

Ahead of the second round getting under way, Paul Heyman would appear to interrupt the proceedings. Possibly shuffling the board for each brand, Heyman would announce his client, Brock Lesnar, had removed his name from the draft pool and declare himself a free agent. Even going as far to dare anyone to stop Lesnar from doing what he wants, Heyman would also warn neither brand to take Randy Orton for when Summerslam rolls around and the two of them clash for the first time, there will be nothing left of 'The Viper' afterward. Following Heyman's exit, the draft would resume as Raw would make yet another splashy and, perhaps unexpected, pick by bringing in NXT's Finn Balor with the sixth overall selection. Ignoring the warnings of Heyman a mere couple minutes prior, Bryan would make 'The Apex Predator' Randy Orton the next selection to Smackdown. Raw would then get a three-for-one in their next pick, bringing in the WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day. Another interruption would follow, this time by AJ Styles, 'The Phenomenal One' questioning both brands as to why he had fallen down the boards so far. More specifically, Styles would mention having beaten John Cena at Money in the Bank (and vow to do so again Sunday at Battleground), yet he was taken in the first round. Maybe unintentionally, this reminder would prompt Shane and Daniel to discuss things and decide maybe we'd get the pleasure of seeing a rematch at some point between Styles and Cena, thus welcoming AJ to the blue brand. Finishing out the round, Foley would welcome someone he doesn't think wouldn't complain about where they were drafted, but prove they are just as worthy as anybody else: 'The Boss' Sasha Banks.

Round 2, Pick 6: Raw - Finn Balor (NXT selection)
Round 2, Pick 7: Smackdown - Randy Orton
Round 2, Pick 8: Raw - The New Day (WWE Tag Team Champions)
Round 2, Pick 9: Smackdown - AJ Styles
Round 2, Pick 10: Raw - Sasha Banks

Kicking off the third round, Stephanie would simultaneously scare and upset the Worcester crowd with a rendition of "he's got the whole world in his hands" before selecting Bray Wyatt to kick off the third round. Smackdown would go on to counter with 'The Prize Fighter' in Kevin Owens. Adding championship gold to their brand, next for Raw would be the Intercontinental Champion, The Miz, bringing not just the title and himself, but his wife Maryse as well. Wasting no time afterward, however, Smackdown would add their own trifecta by selection United States Champion Rusev, drafted along with Lana. Finishing up the third round, Foley would sing praises of potential for their pick in Sami Zayn.

Round 3, Pick 11: Raw - Bray Wyatt
Round 3, Pick 12: Smackdown - Kevin Owens
Round 3, Pick 13: Raw - The Miz (Intercontinental Champion) and Maryse
Round 3, Pick 14: Smackdown - Rusev (United States Champion) and Lana
Round 3, Pick 15: Raw - Sami Zayn

For the fourth round, Raw added a veteran presence in the form of Chris Jericho. Starting off their own women's division, Smackdown would build their foundation beginning with Becky Lynch. Two former World Champions would follow back-to-back with Dolph Ziggler going to Mondays and Sheamus to Tuesdays. Changing things up, though, Stephanie and Mick would put an eye toward the future once again with another NXT selection in the form of Chad Gable and Jason Jordan, American Alpha.

Round 4, Pick 16: Raw - Chris Jericho
Round 4, Pick 17: Smackdown - Becky Lynch
Round 4, Pick 18: Raw - Dolph Ziggler
Round 4, Pick 19: Smackdown - Sheamus
Round 4, Pick 20: Raw - American Alpha (NXT selection)

Adding to their tag team division to begin the fifth round, Raw would split up The Club by bringing in Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, much to the chagrin of AJ Styles in the locker room area. Shane and Daniel would look to appease Styles by saying perhaps he can make new friends with their selection after taking part in his six-man tag team match this Sunday against Enzo Amore and Big Cass. Adding to their roster of former champions, Raw would go with Alberto Del Rio while Smackdown would look younger with Baron Corbin. Finishing up the fifth round, another former multi-time World Champion and 'The World's Largest Athlete', The Big Show, to Raw.

Round 5, Pick 21: Raw - Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson
Round 5, Pick 22: Smackdown - Enzo Amore and Big Cass
Round 5, Pick 23: Raw - Alberto Del Rio
Round 5, Pick 24: Smackdown - Baron Corbin
Round 5, Pick 25: Raw - The Big Show

For the final televised round, Raw would add another member to their women's division with NXT's Alexa Bliss. With Stephanie making a call out to the blue brand's lack of women's division at this point, Shane and Daniel would add a veteran to their division with Natalya. Looking to potentially hedge their bets ahead of his Intercontinental Championship match at Battleground, Raw would next take Darren Young (along with Bob Backlund). Swinging his way in for Smackdown's final pick of the show was Cesaro, with Raw closing out the proceedings with the individual selection of the monstrous Braun Strowman.

Round 6, Pick 26: Raw - Alexa Bliss (NXT selection)
Round 6, Pick 27: Smackdown - Natalya
Round 6, Pick 28: Raw - Darren Young and Bob Backlund
Round 6, Pick 29: Smackdown - Cesaro
Round 6, Pick 30: Raw - Braun Strowman

The draft would continue on the WWE Network with 'Draft Center Live', hosted by Renee Young.

Round 7, Pick 31: Raw - Apollo Crews
Round 7, Pick 32: Smackdown - Neville
Round 7, Pick 33: Raw - Naomi
Round 7, Pick 34: Smackdown - The Usos
Round 7, Pick 35: Raw - The Golden Truth

Round 8, Pick 36: Raw - The Shining Stars
Round 8, Pick 37: Smackdown - Breezango
Round 8, Pick 38: Raw - Mark Henry
Round 8, Pick 39: Smackdown - Carmella (NXT selection)
Round 8, Pick 40: Raw - Dana Brooke
Round 8, Pick 41: Smackdown - Kane

Round 9, Pick 42: Raw - Jack Swagger
Round 9, Pick 43: Smackdown - Eva Marie
Round 9, Pick 44: Raw - Zack Ryder
Round 9, Pick 45: Smackdown - The Dudley Boyz
Round 9, Pick 46: Raw - Mojo Rawley (NXT selection)
Round 9, Pick 47: Smackdown - The Vaudevillains

Round 10, Pick 48: Raw - Sin Cara
Round 10, Pick 49: Smackdown - Erick Rowan
Round 10, Pick 50: Raw - Titus O'Neil
Round 10, Pick 51: Smackdown - Paige
Round 10, Pick 52: Raw - Curtis Axel
Round 10, Pick 53: Smackdown - Kalisto

Round 11, Pick 54: Raw - Bo Dallas
Round 11, Pick 55: Smackdown - The Ascension
Round 11, Pick 56: Raw - Summer Rae
Round 11, Pick 57: Smackdown - Alicia Fox
Round 11, Pick 58: Raw - Heath Slater
Round 11, Pick 59: Smackdown - Nia Jax (NXT selection)​

 

[DTP]

July 24, 2016 - Verizon Center - Washington, D.C.​

1P	Breezango (Fandango and Tyler Breeze) defeated The Usos (Jey Uso and Jimmy Uso)	Tag team match	5:26
2	Bayley and Sasha Banks defeated Charlotte and Dana Brooke by submission	Tag team match	7:25
3	The Wyatt Family (Bray Wyatt, Erick Rowan, and Braun Strowman) defeated The New Day (Big E, Kofi Kingston, and Xavier Woods)	Six-man tag team match	8:47
4	Rusev (c) (with Lana) defeated Zack Ryder by submission	Singles match for the WWE United States Championship	7:01
5	Sami Zayn defeated Kevin Owens	Singles match	18:22
6	Natalya defeated Becky Lynch by submission	Singles match	9:04
7	The Miz (c) (with Maryse) defeated Darren Young (with Bob Backlund)	Singles match for the WWE Intercontinental Championship	8:41
8	Big Cass, Enzo Amore, and John Cena defeated The O.C. (AJ Styles, Luke Gallows, and Karl Anderson)	Six-man tag team match	14:30
9	Dean Ambrose (c) defeated Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins	Triple threat match for the WWE Championship	18:03​

 

[Order]

Another good period to pick with the rebirth of the brand split. A joint BTB as well so I'm intrigued to see how this goes. You've got some hard work ahead of you to make SmackDown as entertaining as it was in real life.

 

[UndisputedOrca]

Well look at this! Very excited for this project, I'm also a big fan of pandemic project especially the writing style and presentation and I have no doubt this will match those standards. A few observations already......

- I'm glad starting in around round 3, you broke from the traditional draft results of this brand split. I think some of the deviations are very interesting, specifically Wyatt to Raw & Owens to Smackdown considering the roles they played on the opposite shows around this time. Also interesting to see the mid card titles flipped from IRL. Miz & Ziggler's feud for the IC Title on Smackdown around this time is one of my favorites for both of those guys and the IC Title. Those changes creates an interesting opportunity for you guys to tell your own stories which I'm excited for.

- Obviously the first big challenge is filling in the championship gaps on post shows. Obviously the Universal Title on Raw is the first big shoe to drop and I', very curious to see where you go. Is it a full Balor run like it should've been or could things go in a different director with a STACKED Raw roster.

Seriously guys, congrats on getting this up and running and excited to see where you take it next

 

[A.J.]

July 25, 2016 - Consol Energy Center - Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

A short recap of Battleground from twenty-four hours prior was shown, highlighting the main event where Smackdown Live's Dean Ambrose would defeat Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins to walk out still the WWE Champion.

A brand-new Raw video package, a new stage set up and commentary tandem of Michael Cole, Byron Saxton and Corey Graves kicked things off for the new era of Monday Night Raw. "The landscape of our entire industry has changed," Cole stated. "And our Commissioner and General Manager are set to address the exclusive Raw roster!" With the entire locker room of Superstars drafted last week atop the stage, standing in the ring looking out to everyone was Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley, expressing to the Pittsburgh fans their excitement about how different things will be going forward. Turning their attention to the men and women of the brand, McMahon would explain how each and every one of them were drafted for a reason. Foley would concur, stating that they picked some names that everyone knows and names that soon enough, he believes, everyone will know. "We should address the elephant in the room, however," Stephanie would say. "The WWE Championship belongs to Smackdown Live after Dean Ambrose defeated our top two draft picks - Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins - last night at Battleground." In a swift attempt at defense, Seth Rollins would step forward out of the sea of Superstars atop the stage and make it clear that he was not the one pinned in last night's triple threat match. Taking things one step further, Rollins would also criticize McMahon and Foley for taking Reigns first overall in the draft. While Reigns would remain quiet off to the side, Stephanie would put Seth in his place by saying he may not have been the one pinned last night, but he also didn't get the job done either. In regard to his draft position, she'd suggest he and anyone else with complaints come talk to them in their office.

Moving forward, Foley would bring up that without the WWE Championship, Stephanie and himself were left debating all day long what they would do. "This is the flagship show and the good people, right here, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania," he'd say with a big smile and thumbs up. "As well as the rest of the WWE Universe deserve a World Champion... and what better to name this title in representation of all of you: The WWE Universal Championship!" Stephanie would then announce that the first eight individual men they drafted in last week's draft will be placed into four separate matches later tonight with the winner of each moving on to a fatal four-way match at Summerslam to determine the inaugural Universal Champion. Those eight competitors being Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, Finn Balor, Bray Wyatt, the Intercontinental Champion The Miz, Sami Zayn, Chris Jericho and Dolph Ziggler. Having one other thing to address, Foley would announce that after making the Women's Champion Charlotte submit last night, they're going to have a Women's Championship match right here tonight between Charlotte and Sasha Banks! Opposite sides of the spectrum in terms of reaction between the two ladies, McMahon would wish them luck before informing everyone that the very first Universal Championship Qualifying Match will take place right there and now with Chris Jericho going one-on-one with Finn Balor in the latter's Raw debut!

1) Universal Championship Qualifying Match: Finn Balor def. Chris Jericho via pinfall following the Coup de Grace. (14:25)

Announced after the match were the other three qualifying matches still to take place later on tonight: Roman Reigns versus Intercontinental Champion The Miz, Bray Wyatt versus Sami Zayn and Seth Rollins versus Dolph Ziggler.

Backstage, Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley discussed the impressive debut by the sixth overall pick from NXT getting the victory when their door was opened by Seth Rollins, saying he had come to their office as requested and demanded answers as to why Roman Reigns was selected number one over him. McMahon would go on to explain that she had inside information that Smackdown Live didn't value him the same as they did and had both Roman Reigns and the WWE Champion Dean Ambrose higher on their draft board and they made a strategic decision in order to guarantee they had both Reigns and Rollins on Monday Night Raw. "You were a close third for Smackdown, I hear, though." Foley would say in an attempt to lift Rollins' spirits. Scoffing in disgust, Seth would tell them he'd prove he is number one when he becomes the first ever Universal Champion at Summerslam.

In the back after a break, Tom Phillips stood by with Women's Champion Charlotte and Dana Brooke, asking the prior about having to defend her title against Sasha Banks last night after submitting to the Bank Statement just twenty-four hours ago. Charlotte would laugh it off, saying that the only reason she tapped out last night was out of her long-term interest - not because she had to. She'd also remind Phillips that Banks' friend Bayley has gone back to NXT "where she belongs" and won't be a distraction tonight. "But I do hope that Bayley - and the entire Raw women's division - watches every closely tonight when Sasha Banks is the one tapping out."

2. American Alpha def. The Shining Stars via pinfall after hitting Grand Amplitude. (2:11)

After the new arrivals of Chad Gable and Jason Jordan finished celebrating their victory, Epico and Primo were left looking lost in the center of the ring. To the surprise of them and the rest of those in the Consol Energy Center, down the ramp would walk Carlito, the former WWE Superstar, as well as Primo's brother and Epico's cousin. Hands held out, he'd berate the duo before reaching into his shirt pocket and remove an apple. To the delight of the fans, he'd take a bite into it before spitting it into the face of Epico! A confused and angered Primo would question the actions before also taking apple to the face from his own brother! Berating The Shining Stars, Carlito would then leave the ring and begin heading toward the back, Epico and Primo looking to one another before seemingly being in agreement and following after Carlito.

Ahead of the commercial break, walking in the back ahead of their match was Dolph Ziggler and Seth Rollins, the winner joining Finn Balor and advancing on to the Summerslam fatal four-way match for the Universal Championship.

In a dim-lit room, Bray Wyatt was seen standing on his own. He'd talk about how there are many different paths this journey can take us. He was brought here while one of his brothers was taken away. "We may meet again," he would add. "But for now, I am a one-man army." With the new creation of the Universal Championship, he believes it is only a matter of time before he's got the whole universe in his hands, prompting him to hauntingly break out in song with the slightly altered lyric to his traditional rendition.

3. Universal Championship Qualifying Match: Seth Rollins def. Dolph Ziggler via pinfall after The Pedigree. (15:46)

Standing in the ring after the time away, Darren Young and Bob Backlund would declare how upset they were by the outcome of last night's Intercontinental Championship match, Backlund going as far to say it was a national tragedy. He'd declare they were going to make Darren Young great again one way or another, only to be interrupted by Ricardo Rodriguez stepping out to the stage to everyone's surprise. He'd stand still momentarily before announcing: "Damas y caballeros, es un honor para mí estar de vuelta aquí y con mi mejor amigo, la selección de draft más subestimada de Monday Night Raw. ¡Él es la esencia de la excelencia, el orgullo de México, el patrón... Alberto Del Rio!" The duo back together, Del Rio and Rodriguez would come down to the ring with Alberto cutting off an enraged Backlund by telling him to shut up. Del Rio would tell the two that they were a waste of space, and this time should belong to him because Young never was and never will be great unlike himself. Backlund would take exception and get shoved to the ground upon charging Del Rio, leading to Young throwing some strikes but being knocked to a knee and kicked in the side of the head. Backlund would then attempt to apply a Crossface Chickenwing on Del Rio only to be tossed down over his shoulder and placed in the Cross Armbreaker. Tapping out almost immediately, Backlund would be stuck in the hold for a solid twenty seconds before Young would return to the ring - too late to make the save before damage done. Del Rio and Rodriguez would exit the ring, Alberto with a twisted grin at what he had done to the WWE Hall of Famer.

Backstage, Tom Phillips was with Sami Zayn, mentioning the huge opportunity for 'The Underdog From The Underground' but having the unique task of facing Bray Wyatt. Zayn would not undersell the dangerous and unknown of facing someone like Wyatt, especially for the first time. After defeating Kevin Owens at Battleground last night and K.O. off to Smackdown Live, Zayn feels his mind is free and focus is clear, prompting him to have plenty of belief in himself in winning tonight and heading to Summerslam to become the very first Universal Champion.

Holding the back of his neck with an ice pack on his chest, Chris Jericho stomped through the back before coming across Mick Foley, 'Y2J' not pleased with being asked how he was doing. Jericho would complain about being RKOed by Smackdown Live's Randy Orton last night and then having to compete in the very first match tonight against an unknown opponent. Foley would ask if Jericho would've preferred to not have had a shot at becoming Universal Champion, or if he'd like to try doing another version of The Highlight Reel with Brock Lesnar as his guest this time. Jericho would not appreciate the jokes, warning Foley: "You keep it up and you're gonna get... it!"

4. Universal Championship Qualifying Match: Bray Wyatt def. Sami Zayn via pinfall after Sister Abigail. (8:34)

Once again standing by backstage was Tom Phillips, this time with 'The Boss' Sasha Banks. He'd ask about Banks possibly feeling the pressure, leading to Sasha saying she has always had Charlotte attempting to hold her down. She'd bring up making Charlotte tap out at Battleground and tonight being no different aside from the fact that afterward she'd be holding up the Women's Championship after the match was over.

Intercontinental Champion The Miz and his wife Maryse talked backstage with Miz talking about how tonight is the just the beginning of history being made. "When I defeat Roman Reigns, I will advance to Summerslam where I will become the very first WWE Universal Champion!" Miz would smile off into the distance, telling Maryse to imagine how perfect it would be - Raw's 'number one star' being it's Intercontinental and World Champion at the same time, the way he believes it should be. "Honestly, if Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley were smart, they'd just appoint me their Universal Champion."

5. WWE Women's Championship: Sasha Banks def. Charlotte (c) (w/Dana Brooke) via submission with the Bank Statement. (16:52)

A celebration for Banks would take place afterward, being presented with the Women's Championship for the very first time. As a devasted Charlotte would look on from the ramp, Byron Saxton would make his way down to the ring and offer his congratulations to Banks before asking her how she felt in this moment as the first new champion in the new era. Tears in her eyes, Banks would exclaim that she did it and that she had lived up to her dream from when she was ten years old. She'd vow going forward that she'd prove week in and week out why she deserves this and represent as the WWE Women's Champion.

Walking through the back and continuing her celebration was Sasha Banks, the brand-new Women's Champion, and being applauded by both Summer Rae and Naomi as they each congratulated her on dethroning Charlotte. Crashing the party, however, was NXT draft pick Alexa Bliss. Giving a fake applause, Bliss would tell Banks that she thought what just happened out there was total luck. Obviously not agreeing with that assessment, Banks would propose that Bliss make a name for herself in the ring rather than try and run her mouth. "How's next Monday night sound?" Banks would ask, with Bliss appearing slightly hesitant at first before accepting the challenge from the new champion.

The WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day made their way to the ring with balloons decorating the ring as while as three of their own reading out the number 337, representing their days as champions. Woods would address briefly the group losing to The Wyatt Family last night, but it appears that while they've gone their separate ways, The New Day is still together and stronger than ever. The group would crack some jokes about what was happening in the world 337 days ago, including their Booty O's cereal being just a dream and now a reality. The group would even throw to a video package highlighting their run as a team, the crowd chanting 'New Day rocks!' afterward. As the trio would go on about how they're ready to represent and take on all challengers, Woods and Kingston would be yanked from the ring right on cue by Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, tossing the two of them into the ring steps. Big E would chase after the two of them only to be double teamed and beat to the ground before being dragged back up and laid out with The Magic Killer on the outside floor. Gallows and Anderson would then remove the WWE Tag Team Championship belts from Kingston and Woods' waists, raising the belts above their heads and signaling that they want to be the ones to dethrone the champions.

As Brock Lesnar and Randy Orton are set for battle at Summerslam, a recap from last night's Battleground was shown with Orton insulting Lesnar before RKOing Chris Jericho on The Highlight Reel. Back live, Paul Heyman was seen facing the camera from a studio with a smile. He'd question if what Orton did last night was supposed to be sending a message because all he took from it was a poking of the bear. Heyman would laugh it off and bring up how everybody always warns about the RKO out of nowhere. "But what happens when my client, Brock Lesnar - a free agent - appears out of nowhere?" he'd warn. Lastly, Heyman would suggest Orton grow eyes in the back of his head because who knows when 'The Beast Incarnate' will feast.

In the ring upon the entrance of a new look Braun Strowman, Byron Saxton stands with a nervous local by the name of James Ellsworth. Saxton would ask Ellsworth's reason for being there, James explaining that he had to take the opportunity to compete on Monday Night Raw. However, he did not know it would be against Strowman. Ellsworth would say that despite that, he thinks any man with two hands has a fighting chance!

6. Braun Strowman def. James Ellsworth via pinfall after a reverse chokeslam. (1:09)

Roman Reigns was seen sitting in the back finishing putting his gear on when approached by Tom Phillips, mentioning Reigns being pinned in the night prior's triple threat match and asking if that phases him especially after being made the number one pick and coming off of a suspension. A lot of questions for Reigns to take in at once, but he'd say that he isn't bothered by what has happened in the past - he's concerned about the future. "And the future involves me beating The Miz tonight... and then becoming the WWE Universal Champion at Summerslam."

7. Non-Title Universal Championship Qualifying Match: Roman Reigns def. Intercontinental Champion The Miz (w/Maryse) via pinfall after a Spear. (14:42)

As Reigns had his arm raised as the winner, the lights would go out in the arena and Bray Wyatt would appear after they came back up - standing behind Reigns and planting him with Sister Abigail! Wyatt's laugh echoed throughout the arena until he'd take a sling blade from Finn Balor! Things would just add on from there as Seth Rollins charged the ring and caught Balor with a knee to the face. Reigns would come back into the ring and drill Rollins with a Superman Punch before turning to Wyatt and catching him with a Spear. All fired up, Reigns would stand and turn right into a dropkick into the turnbuckles by Balor, leading to Finn going to the top rope and hitting Coup de Grace! The Pittsburgh crowd cheering loud, the top NXT selection would stand tall to bring an end to the first Monday Night Raw of the new era.​

 

[Order]

Here goes my review of your first RAW show and just a few points on it. As I previously said I am very much looking forward to reading this as it progresses.

-Concept for new Universal Champion - I thought this was a nice idea to tie the draft to the new championship that is needed with SmackDown getting the WWE Championship. The top 8 draft picks having a chance is right. I'd have personally preferred a tournament but I don't have a major issue with it turning into a Fatal 4-Way either. I thought Foley and Stephanie came across as decent too.

-The return of Carlito - I thought this was great, I'm assuming it ends with him and Primo teaming although I'd like Epico to somehow stay with them as a three. I always enjoyed them in the ring and felt they never got the opportunities they deserved. I'd be happy with a feud with American Alpha for now even though Gable and Jordan should go over.

-Del Rio and Young - I really like this. I wanted the Young and Backlund tandem to go somewhere and they didn't do anything with them at all. Having Ricardo back with Alberto is definitely the right call as that was when he was at his most effective. Looking forward to what happens next with the four of them.

-Sasha Banks and the new champion - No problem with Sasha Banks winning her first title in this manner as it made sense with it being a new era of Monday Night RAW following the draft. I'm guessing this leads into a lengthy feud with Charlotte Flair which I am sure you will do justice. I would have actually liked to read the match and how it finished though. Alexa Bliss is a nice match next week as well.

-Finn Balor standing tall - Overall, I think the right four men moved on to the match for the Universal Championship and I'm really happy that you gave Balor the spotlight on his RAW debut. I'm not his biggest fan but he definitely has plenty going for him and I think this makes him favourite to win the title at SummerSlam. I'd put the title on him and then you get to book a reign that was annoyingly cut short in real life before it even got going.

-No match writing? - This was an interesting choice, personally, I like match writing so I'm wondering what your choice is here. I don't mind quick results on some matches but I feel title matches and main events in particular should have at least the finish explained. It kind of devalued the title change for me with Banks in particular.

Overall, a solid first show and I like the direction you're going in with most of the segments with my minor quibble being the no match writing in this episode. Keep up the good work!

 

[A.J.]

August 21, 2016 - Barclays Center - Brooklyn, New York
Official Theme Song: "Who's With Me" by Flo Rida
Official Theme Song: "Take It From Me" by Kongos

Fatal Four Way Match for the Universal Championship
Bray Wyatt vs Seth Rollins vs Roman Reigns vs Finn Balor

Singles Match
Brock Lesnar vs Randy Orton​

 

[DTP]

July 26, 2016 - First Niagara Center - Buffalo, New York

A short recap of Battleground from twenty-four hours prior was shown, highlighting the main event where Smackdown Live's Dean Ambrose would defeat Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins to walk out still the WWE Champion.

A brand new SmackDown video package, a new stage set up and commentary tandem of Mauro Ranallo, John Bradshaw Layfield and David Otunga kicked things off for the new era of SmackDown Live. Much like last night on Monday Night Raw, the show got off to a huge introduction as Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan stood centerstage in the center of the ring. The entire locker room of Superstars surrounded the ring, as they hyped the crowd and thanked the WWE Universe for taking a chance on Tuesday nights over Mondays. The SmackDown Commissioner noted that every man and woman around the ring deserved to be here, and were all drafted to not just lead this new era - but to revolutionize the way the Universe perceived SmackDown Live. Handing things over to the General Manager, Daniel acknowledged the fact that Dean Ambrose made it so that the WWE Championship come to the Blue Brand this past Sunday at Battleground. Leading a rally to make SmackDown Live the place to be, out came the ever-casual Dean Ambrose to address the troops. Climbing into the ring, it was clear that all eyes were on him, just the way he liked it.

In the mind of 'the Lunatic Fringe', if you didn't want to be WWE Champion, you didn't belong on SmackDown Live. Dean Ambrose made no mistake he was something of a risktaker. He not only had to climb a ladder after stumbling and falling a dozen times or so to be champ today, but he had to scratch and claw at the gold on his shoulder to even get the opportunity. With that in mind, he made it clear that he was the head of the food chain and dared any of the boys surrounding the ring to come and think about trying to take it from him. Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon took this to mean that Ambrose wanted challengers, in which case the GM declared that tonight would see a brand-wide Battle Royal to determine who challenged Ambrose at SummerSlam. Yet, the WWE Champion declined. He wasn't interested in sitting on the sidelines for the head honcho to come for the title - and instead corrected them: tonight would see a brand-wide Battle Royal to determine who challenged him: tonight! The Universe exploded when Shane O'Mac questioned if the people wanted to see it - and with that, Bryan approved it. He called Tuesday nights the place to be, and for the people - which was why he was giving the Superstars one better. The Battle Royal was going to take place right now!

1. Number One Contender's Battle Royal: Baron Corbin def. Neville, Sheamus, Kane, Rusev, Big Cass, Kevin Owens, Cesaro, Enzo Amore, Bubba Ray Dudley, D-Von Dudley, Kalisto, Fandango, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Simon Gotch, Erick Rowan, Konnor, Tyler Breeze, Aiden English & Viktor when Corbin snuck out from under the ring to eliminate Neville and Sheamus. (13:27)

Baron Corbin celebrated his victory in an overexcited display, when WWE Champion Dean Ambrose offered his congratulations ahead of tonight's title match, with the Dirty Deeds.

Graphics aired promoting other matches scheduled to take place tonight, including an appearance from Randy Orton as he set out to address Brock Lesnar ahead of SummerSlam. In a rematch from Battleground, Natalya would meet Becky Lynch. Plus, John Cena would be here tonight.

As Shane McMahon complimented Daniel Bryan on his on-his-feet thinking, the General Manager admitted his original plans for tonight's show had already gone out the window. In walked the Usos, who argued with Breezango. Both teams were furious, having had their chances at becoming number one contender in the Battle Royal sabotaged by one another. The Commissioner tried to restore order as Tyler Breeze and Fandango insulted Jimmy and Jey's colorful get-up, calling them "uggos". Finally "the Yes Man" yelled "NO! NO! NO!" in their faces, before setting the stage for a match between the two teams tonight. As the disgruntled Superstars departed, Shane O'Mac questioned how he got that catchphrase to work.

After the break, AJ Styles was shown arriving at the First Niagara Center where he was met by Renee Young. Having a terrible day, he voiced his dissatisfaction in not only being separated by Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson - but having gotten into a traffic jam which made him late! AJ voiced his intentions to turn things around by getting SmackDown Live off to a phenomenal start - challenging Dean Ambrose for the WWE Championship. Renee had the misfortune of breaking the news to AJ - he'd missed out on a Number One Contender's Battle Royal! AJ was furious, questioning what kind of clown show Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan were running. Enzo Amore and Big Cass soon entered the frame, both making fun of his tardiness. AJ didn't want to deal with them after Battleground, yet the two took great joy in reminding them of how they and John Cena whooped the Club good! As they decreed AJ as a chihuahua rather than a pitbull, Styles challenged Enzo to prove he was not just all-bark, no-bite by taking him on tonight. Amore, not knowing when to say no, accepted!

2. Becky Lynch def. Natalya via submission with the Dis-Arm-Her. (8:57)

After the match, Becky Lynch's celebration would be met by Natalya striking her down from behind. Targeting the knee she had spent the match working over, Becky fought back and sent Nattie from the ring. Celebrating prematurely however, the second-generation Canadian responded with a shot from a lead pipe! With Lynch unconscious, Natalya applied the Sharpshooter with the Irishwoman left unresponsive.

Days removed from his appearance on Chris Jericho's Highlight Reel at Battleground, Randy Orton made his first appearance as a SmackDown Superstar. With Brock Lesnar on the brain, "the Viper" was prepared to once again address "the Beast Incarnate" in mere moments.

Randy Orton made his way to the ring to deliver another speech intended for Brock Lesnar. In wrestling attire, "the Apex Predator" reminisced on the comments made by Chris Jericho which eventually got Y2J dropped with an RKO. Orton knew exactly the path that awaited him come SummerSlam, having seen the video and witnessed what similar fate had befell many a Superstar - from Triple H to John Cena, and from Roman Reigns to Seth Rollins. Still, Randy was adamant he would be the one to turn back the tide and put a stop to Brock, remarking how incredible it was they had not touched in a WWE ring since 2002! Out walked the United States Champion Rusev with Lana, "the Ravishing Russian" telling Randy he was in over his head. But by coming out tonight and filling the Universe with confidence, it would be a devastating defeat for him at SummerSlam when Brock Lesnar crushed him.

As Randy pointed out Lana's ridiculous get-up and made a point to ask Chris Jericho how he felt after handing out a negative vote of confidence, the United States Champion raised his voice warning him not to speak ill of his wife! "The Bulgarian Brute" told Orton he could talk about Brock Lesnar until the cows came home, but he was missing the fact that Brock wasn't here - and he was eating up Rusev's time! As he brought up his own match tonight against Cesaro, Lana again interrupted just to be shut down by Orton once more. Randy said he knew Rusev was the fighting type, otherwise he wouldn't be in the position he was in today. Challenging him to "MATCHKA" his ass down to the ring, Rusev proceeded to, but after a short exchange "the Viper" would drop him flat with the RKO! Lana was distraught as Orton slithered out to the floor - when Cesaro made his arrival.

3. Cesaro def. United States Champion Rusev (w/Lana) via pinfall after the Neutralizer, coming off a distraction from Randy Orton on commentary. (7:43)

Rusev went beet-red with rage at the defeat handed to him by "the Viper", as Cesaro celebrated with fists a-blazing in the ring. Randy Orton shrugged it off and shunned Lana away as she confronted him. Blaming Randy for her husband's loss, "the Bulgarian Brute" could not believe it. Meanwhile, with a victory over the United States Champion, "the Swiss Superman" had gotten the new era of SmackDown Live off to a hot start.

A vignette aired, promoting the debut of Nia Jax. With close-ups of her eyes and her destruction over NXT as the focal point, "The Immovable Object" was coming soon to SmackDown Live.

Renee Young was standing by with Baron Corbin, who quickly and rudely interrupted the broadcast journalist. Commenting on his impressive win against twenty other Superstars tonight in the Battle Royal, "the Lone Wolf" plotted to make it twenty-one when he put away Dean Ambrose and start a legendary career in this new era of WWE - as WWE Champion. Corbin was full of himself, and despite the hesitance on Renee's part to agree, the self-assured challenger maintained that he would be the talk of Tuesday nights when this night was done.

4. AJ Styles def. Enzo Amore via submission with the Calf Crusher. (2:20)

"The Phenomenal One" refused to break the hold after the bell sounded, furious with how his day had transpired. Finally Big Cass charged down to the ring to fight AJ Styles off, who quickly vanished from the ring. Cass was angry, but little did AJ realize - John Cena had snuck out behind him! Sending AJ back inside, Cass would deliver the East River Crossing to AJ - but as Cena prepared to give Styles an Attitude Adjustment, Styles was able to cower out to the floor.

Beside himself over the loss to Cesaro, the United States Champion Rusev roared at Daniel Bryan that this was all Randy Orton's fault! In his native tongue of Bulgarian, finally the SmackDown General Manager told "the Bulgarian Brute" that this was America, and if this was how he wanted to behave - he could, by getting down to the root of the problem. That was, by facing Randy Orton in a match next week. Rusev accepted prematurely, and his wife Lana was clearly agitated with the hot temper of her husband, when the GM would add that it was set - for the United States Championship! Rusev lost it, though "the Yes Man" wisely exited the office!

Renee Young was standing by with John Cena, who expressed his joy at seeing the broadcast journalist had also made it over to SmackDown Live. Cena was stoked to be a part of this new era, how tonight gave him chills just thinking about it. Cena felt like he was back in 2002, and today was his first day - yet the more things changed, the more they stayed the same. John was asked about AJ Styles and his involvement with "the Phenomenal One", bringing Cena to claim that he wasn't sure what to expect, until he did. He planned to come here tonight and make a challenge right out of the gate with Dean Ambrose. Instead, he was met by another riveting opportunity to embarrass AJ Styles. Naturally, he took the latter! Cena brought up Battleground, where he, Enzo and Cass defeated the Club - but now, AJ was all by himself. For the first time in his young WWE career, AJ had to prove what made him phenomenal - all alone, sink or swim! As Renee questioned what the future looked like for Cena, John made it known he would be watching tonight's main event, and no matter who came out - Dean Ambrose or Baron Corbin - he wanted a piece of them.

5. Breezango def. The Usos via pinfall when Tyler Breeze reversed a victory roll on Jey with leverage provided by Fandango. (4:31)

With the WWE Championship match moments away, Dean Ambrose finished up his pre-match ritual before setting out for the ring. "The Lunatic Fringe" would put the WWE Championship at stake against Baron Corbin - up next.

As the broadcast team discussed the first SmackDown Live of the new era, graphics played confirming the United States Championship match for next week pitting Randy Orton against the champion Rusev. Natalya and Becky Lynch would meet one more time in a Submission match to settle the score. Finally, a four-way tag team match involving the Dudley Boyz, Breezango, the Usos and Enzo Amore and Big Cass would determine who would go to SummerSlam to challenge Monday Night Raw's WWE Tag Team Champions the New Day!

6. Dean Ambrose (c) def. Baron Corbin to retain the WWE Championship via pinfall with the Dirty Deeds after running Corbin's head into an exposed turnbuckle. (7:10)

As Dean Ambrose celebrated his second WWE Championship defense in the span of forty-eight hours, backstage, the Commissioner was getting an earful. Shane McMahon listened to AJ Styles rant and rave about the manner in which he had been treated by John Cena tonight. "The Phenomenal One" questioned Shane O'Mac's leadership skills, and how he wanted to be remembered in history as this volatile, incompetent jackass. Shane warned AJ not to say another word, claiming if he had shown up sooner, he could have been in Baron Corbin's slot tonight. Instead, he missed out, and later schooled by John Cena, Enzo Amore and Big Cass. Styles reiterated that he was frustrated with being the best and not being shown the proper respect - though Shane promised to give that to him. With SummerSlam in mind, Shane had two options in mind to challenge for the WWE Championship. One of them was AJ - and the other was John Cena! Styles was furious, but accepted. SmackDown Live was off to a rocking start in this new era, as the first instalment went off the air!​

 

[A.J.]

August 1, 2016 - Philips Arena - Atlanta, Georgia

A recap of last week's episode of Raw highlighted the Universal Championship being introduced with Roman Reigns, Finn Balor, Bray Wyatt and Seth Rollins qualifying for a fatal four way match to determine the inaugural champion at Summerslam. Also, Sasha Banks would dethrone Charlotte to become the new Women's Champion. Following the all new Raw intro video featuring "Back From The Dead" by Skillet, Michael Cole, Byron Saxton and Corey Graves would welcome everyone to the show where they'd prepare everyone for the night ahead featuring Roman Reigns and Finn Balor teaming up against Bray Wyatt and Seth Rollins as well as new Women's Champion Sasha Banks facing Alexa Bliss.

Kicking off the second Monday Night Raw of this new era was Intercontinental Champion The Miz, along with his wife Maryse, for an edition of MizTV. The 'A-Lister' made excuses in regards to his loss to Roman Reigns last week. He also claimed that as someone that got the job done at Battleground, unlike Reigns, he should've been handed the Universal Championship. Before dwelling any further, Miz would introduce his guest as Raw's General Manager Mick Foley. The Hardcore legend would come down to the ring and not be able to get a word out before Miz would talk over him, demanding answers for the supposed disrespect. Foley would quickly correct Miz in telling him that he, along with seven other superstars, had their fair opportunity at the Universal Championship. "You should be glad that your match with Roman Reigns last week wasn't also for the Intercontinental Championship, Miz." Foley would say much to the chagrin of the talk show host. Before things could escalate any further, sauntering his way out from the back was Chris Jericho. Much like Miz, he had a bone to pick with Foley. He'd point out the RKO he suffered at the hands of Smackdown Live's Randy Orton at Battleground - which gave him the opportunity to call his talk show better than Miz's - and that he went into his match with Finn Balor last Monday night with a sore neck. "So what are you gonna do about... it?!" Jericho asked.

Tensions would be lifted from there as also arriving was 'The Underdog From The Underground' Sami Zayn, eliciting a very positive response from the Atlanta fans. Joining the set of MizTV, Zayn would apologize to Foley for interrupting but also wanted to make it clear that unlike Miz and Jericho, he had no excuses. "I lost to Bray Wyatt last week. No doubt about it. But I know what I'm capable of and I know that if you put me in the ring with The Miz for the Intercontinental Championship... I'll walk out with it." Jericho quickly interjected and said that as the "greatest Intercontinental Champion of all time" that if anybody should receive a shot at Miz it's himself. Miz didn't seem to like the direction of how things were going with his show, only going further in the wrong direction for him when Dolph Ziggler showed up. Also having come up short last week, Ziggler stated he liked Zayn's idea and thinks he could do it even better, stating how much he's always loved shutting The Miz up. Foley would rise from his seat amongst bickering between the four superstars, the Raw GM saying he has a solution for all of this. He'd point out that all four of these men came up short in their qualifying matches last week, but they were some of Raw's top picks for a reason. He'd decide that Miz would be defending his Intercontinental Championship in just under three weeks at Summerslam against the winner of a triple threat match this very night between Chris Jericho, Dolph Ziggler and Sami Zayn! Telling everyone to have a nice day, he'd leave the ring while the four continued to exchange some words with the stage set for later on.

Backstage, the new Women's Champion Sasha Banks was seen headed toward the ring. Her first match as the brand-new champion would be next against the main roster newcomer she encountered last Monday night, Alexa Bliss.

1) Non-Title Match: Women's Champion Sasha Banks def. Alexa Bliss via submission with The Bank Statement. (10:14)

Coming off of her victory in a hard-fought contest, Banks was blindsided afterward via a Natural Selection from Charlotte. Flanked by her protege Dana Brooke, the former Women's Champion continued her assault of Banks by throwing her shoulder first into the ring post and then aggressively into the steel steps. Brooke would hold Banks' head up by the hair as Charlotte would move close into her face, microphone in hand, saying that last week was the definition of a fluke. "And I'm going to prove it when I take back my Women's Championship at Summerslam!" She would declare before slamming the back of Banks' head into the steps. Her and Brooke would then leave, 'The Boss' left being attended to by the official.

Backstage, WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day were walking together when approached by Commissioner Stephanie McMahon. She'd do her best attempt at dancing with the trio before telling them that she had some important news in regard to the WWE Tag Team Championship. She'd make the announcement that the WWE Board of Directors has approved a request from Smackdown Live for them to be able to compete for the gold at Summerslam. She'd also say that it wasn't necessarily going to be The New Day defending because she wants the very best team on Raw to represent them. "And while you are the reigning champions and were selected initially by Monday Night Raw, we have to put you to the test." She'd explain that while Smackdown Live shook out who would challenge for the titles, she's going to find out opponents for The New Day next week by having a tag team turmoil match here tonight. "Teams like Gallows and Anderson, who think they could just be handed a shot for attacking you last week, will have to run he gauntlet along with The Shining Stars, The Hype Bros, The Golden Truth and... American Alpha." The New Day responded well to this news, welcoming the competition with Woods promising they'd walk in and out of Summerslam still the champions.

Following the commercial break, Michael Cole would make the announcement that it was confirmed by General Manager Mick Foley that at Summerslam it will be a rematch for the Raw Women's Championship with Sasha Banks defending against Charlotte.

2. Braun Strowman def. Evan Anderholm via pinfall after a running powerslam. (1:15)

Tom Phillips stood by with Seth Rollins backstage, bringing up him having to team up with Bray Wyatt, one of his Summerslam opponents, later on tonight against Roman Reigns and Finn Balor. Rollins would say usually he wouldn't concern about who he is paired up with because he knows he could get the job done on his own at any time. He'd say, however, that this time might be a little different because nobody knows what the hell Wyatt is ever thinking. "Roman and Finn? They can go ahead and talk strategy any time and make sure they're on the same page and stay out of each other's way. That's all fine and dandy but where the hell am I supposed to find Bray Wyatt, huh?" Rollins would shake his head and say that the only thing he could hope for was that Wyatt was listening out there somewhere and knew to keep his distance.

Announced after the time away was that Brock Lesnar will be appearing on Raw next week just two weeks head of his first-ever clash with Randy Orton at Summerslam. What will 'The Beast Incarnate' and his advocate Paul Heyman have to say? Back in the arena live, Intercontinental Champion The Miz would join in commentary for the following contest.

3. Triple Threat Match to determine the #1 Contender for the Intercontinental Championship: Dolph Ziggler def. Chris Jericho and Sami Zayn via pinfall after a Zig Zag to Jericho following a Codebreaker to Zayn. (14:39)

As Ziggler would celebrate having earned a shot at The Miz, the champion would hit the ring from behind ready to strike with his title only for Ziggler to turn around and catch him. A motionless stare down between the two briefly, Ziggler would then lung forward with Miz diving through the ropes and backing down very quickly. "That title is coming home to me soon, Mikey!" Dolph would shout while hovering his hands over his waist.

Sami Zayn walked in the back looking frustrated following his loss just a few moments ago when he'd be confronted off to the side by one of the other competitors in the match, Chris Jericho. 'Y2J' would berate Zayn and say that if he hadn't gotten in the way multiple times during their match, he'd be the one challenging for the Intercontinental Championship. "Instead, it's neither of us, you... you... stupid idiot!" Zayn would be baffled by Jericho's insult before telling him in turn that Chris should be taking a long hard look at himself and question why he was pinned out there by Dolph Ziggler. Zayn shook his head, saying he would expect more out of an old veteran like Jericho but he supposes that some people never change. As Sami would continue on his way, Jericho wouldn't take kindly to the 'old veteran' remark. "I'm not old... and I never served in a war! We're Canadian!"

In the locker room area, Finn Balor was seen getting prepared when the door would open off camera with Roman Reigns walking in. Reigns would acknowledge their partnership tonight, but he wasn't forgetting about what happened last week. "I know you were trying to make a name for yourself. Leave a mark. Stand tall to end this 'new era' of Monday Night Raw. But I'm still Roman Reigns... and I'm still the guy." Balor would chuckle in response, understanding Reigns needing to be defensive and try to establish dominance. He'd comment that last week he was just doing what he had to do to put everyone on notice since he intends to go to Summerslam and win. "You may be Roman Reigns. You may be 'the guy'. But I'm Finn Balor. And I'm going to be the Universal Champion." Balor would pat Reigns on the shoulder and then leave the room with a smile.

Back inside of the Philips Arena, The New Day would make their arrival to a warm reception from the fans. The WWE Tag Team Champions made their way down to ringside and pull up three seats, prepared to have a front row view to find out who their opponents for next week would end up being with tag team turmoil coming up next.

4. Tag Team Turmoil to determine the #1 Contenders to the WWE Tag Team Championship: The Hype Bros def. The Golden Truth via pinfall after a Hyper Ryder to Goldust with Rawley scoring the elimination. (3:21)
American Alpha def. The Hype Bros via pinfall following Grand Amplitude to Ryder with Jordan making the cover. (7:05)
American Alpha def. The Shining Stars (w/Carlito) via pinfall with Grand Amplitude to Epico and Gable getting the fall. (12:10)
Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson def. American Alpha via pinfall with The Magic Killer to Gable after an assault at the hands of The Shining Stars and Carlito prior to their entry, giving them the final elimination and victory. (13:25)

Gallows and Anderson, practically handed the win, celebrate things as if they had dominated. The New Day looked on less than impressed, entering the ring and raising their WWE Tag Team Championship titles over their heads while exchanging words with their number one contenders - the stage set for a tag title match next Monday night.

Tom Phillips stood by backstage with his guests Alberto Del Rio and Ricardo Rodriguez, bringing up last week with Rodriguez's return and Del Rio's attack on not just Darren Young, but WWE Hall of Famer Bob Backlund as well. Del Rio would laugh in response, not feeling any remorse for what he did to Young and certainly not Backlund. He'd express his excitement to be re-united with his personal ring announcer and that this was just the beginning of his rebirth to what made him reach the top of WWE. He'd guarantee victory over Young tonight.

Talking in their office together was Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley, the Commissioner and General Manager in mid-discussion when into the room came Seth Rollins, his hands held out as he'd question what he is supposed to do not being able to talk with Bray Wyatt. "You paired me up with a guy that hides in the dark in the middle of God knows where!" Foley said he'd suggest Rollins check the boiler room because he heard some weird dudes hang out there. McMahon would side-eye Foley before telling Rollins that if he is 'The Architect' then he should have no problem figuring things out. Frustrated, Rollins would re-iterate what he said earlier that Wyatt needs to keep his distance tonight.

5. Alberto Del Rio (w/Ricardo Rodriguez) def. Darren Young (w/Bob Backlund) via submission with the Cross Armbreaker. (4:48)

Del Rio would celebrate the victory atop the turnbuckles until he'd turn around to see Backlund getting into the ring to check on Young, seeing an opportunity to once again to attack the legend - this time with a kick to the side of the head! The Atlanta crowd would boo the heinous act, Del Rio showing no remorse as he'd laugh on his way out of the ring and toward the back along with Rodriguez.

Women's Champion Sasha Banks was backstage looking frustrated as Tom Phillips approached, apologizing for bothering her, but wanting to know her thoughts on the rematch at Summerslam being made official between her and Charlotte. "Good," Banks would reply. "Because beating Charlotte the first time... and the second time... wasn't enough." Standing up from the production trunk she had been sitting on, 'The Boss' would say making Charlotte tap out is her favorite thing to do and she'll have no problem doing it on a big stage like Summerslam. She also wants to send a message by going up against Charlotte's protege, Dana Brooke, next week.

Elsewhere backstage, Darren Young stood outside the trainer's office where Bob Backlund could be heard yelling at doctors. Approaching Young with a hand to his shoulder was former WWE Superstar MVP, donning a black and gold suit. Reaching inside of his jacket, he'd pull out a business card and hand it over to Young. "Give me a call when you're ready to be taken seriously." He'd state simply before walking off.

Back at the announce table, the trio of commentators would discuss seeing MVP, noting that last week we saw Carlito and Ricardo Rodriguez. "Is anybody else going to show up as part of this new era?!" Saxton would ask. Before speculation could begin, however, the proceedings would be interrupted by Bray Wyatt. "I hear you've been looking for me, Seth." He said with a laugh afterward. He'd go on to say that he's always played well with others when they follow his lead, but he feels like Rollins isn't one of those people. Fortunately for him, there are two other's standing across that ring as well. Lastly, he calls for Rollins to no longer fret. "I'm here." He'd say before blowing out his lantern.

6. Bray Wyatt and Seth Rollins def. Finn Balor and Roman Reigns via pinfall with Rollins covering Reigns following miscommunication between Reigns and Balor, with a Sister Abigail from Wyatt being delivered to Reigns. (19:55)

Having taken the win for his team, Rollins was fired up after the bell. As he trash talked over the ropes at Balor sitting against the barricade, Finn would watch on as Wyatt moved up slowly behind Rollins. 'The Architect' would begin to realize this, slowly turning around and being pulled right into a Sister Abigail. Wyatt would then slide onto both knees, holding both his hands out wide with laughter as the possibility of 'The Eater of Worlds' becoming the inaugural Universal Champion was presented on commentary as Monday Night Raw drew to a close.​

 

[A.J.]

August 21, 2016 - Barclays Center - Brooklyn, New York
Official Theme Song: "Who's With Me" by Flo Rida
Official Theme Song: "Take It From Me" by Kongos

Fatal Four Way Match for the WWE Universal Championship
Bray Wyatt vs Seth Rollins vs Roman Reigns vs Finn Balor

Singles Match
Brock Lesnar vs Randy Orton

WWE Women's Championship
Sasha Banks(c) vs Charlotte

WWE Intercontinental Championship
The Miz(c) vs Dolph Ziggler​

 

[DTP]

August 2, 2016 - Bridgestone Arena - Nashville, Tennessee

The brand new opening video package aired, bringing us to the Bridgestone Arena for SmackDown Live! Pyrotechnics erupted across the stage, as Mauro Ranallo, John Bradshaw Layfield and David Otunga welcomed us to the show. Recapping the events from last week's landmark beginning of a new era in the WWE, the WWE Universe came to their feet for the arrival of "the Phenomenal One".

AJ Styles continued to be unimpressed with the decisionmakings of Commissioner Shane McMahon, and General Manager Daniel Bryan. Talking and bragging about all he had done in this business, "the Phenomenal One" proclaimed he had packed out the Tokyo Dome and was the best thing going before he came to this company - and questioned how on earth he deserved to be treated like this! AJ was mad about being separated from Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson; but as bad as the Club's divide was, he wasn't even given the WWE Championship shot he deserved last week! John Cena interrupted, his arch rival greeting AJ in the ring with a smile. Recounting all of the fun and games they had shared in the past, John admitted AJ had all the makings of a varsity athlete - but when it came down to it, he talked too big a game. Cena lamented AJ's success rate in #BeatingUpJohn Cena, accepting his loss at Money in the Bank. Yet in the six-man tag team match at Battleground, AJ got the short end of the stick! Cena admitted they had unfinished business, and as it happened - he wanted a shot at Dean Ambrose himself! With SummerSlam right around the corner, he proposed they fight for the right to face "the Lunatic Fringe", when out came Daniel Bryan. Despite what AJ had to say about him, he thought it was a tremendous idea - confirming it would happen: tonight!

Baron Corbin watched with disgust in the interview area, when joined by Renee Young. "The Lone Wolf" was aggravated by the broadcast journalist, and renounced his loss to Dean Ambrose in the WWE Championship match last week. Baron claimed this wasn't the end of his run. He would still be the fastest rising Superstar to hit SmackDown Live - and tonight, he vowed to make things happen.

A video package took an in-depth look at the backgrounds of Brock Lesnar and Randy Orton. Ahead of the dream match 15 years in the making, Paul Heyman recapped "the Beast Incarnate's" shocking no contest display against Mark Hunt at UFC 200, while deemed "the Viper's" prominence as a Legend as "child's play" where Brock Lesnar was concerned. A graphic previewed Lesnar and Heyman's upcoming appearance this coming week on Monday Night Raw. Meanwhile, Randy Orton warmed up for his upcoming opportunity at Rusev's WWE United States Championship - tonight.

AJ Styles resumed his pity party on video call with the Club, when he was confronted by Shane McMahon. As Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson could be heard encouraging "the Phenomenal One", the Commissioner hoped AJ expressed his regards as well from SmackDown Live. Addressing AJ's actions directly, Shane wanted to talk about his conduct in going out to the ring and enticing the WWE Universe. AJ questioned why he couldn't, and why Shane wasn't stopping him. Clearly this brand was made to belong to him, and revolve around him! Shane understood, but wanted to reiterate that this brand didn't owe him a damn thing! The Commissioner warned AJ never to pull a stunt like he did again, and while outside of the WWE he was something of a phenomenon - until he pulled his weight, in WWE he was dirt! Shane reiterated SmackDown was The People's Brand, bringing AJ to skulk away.

As Breezango made their unpopular presence felt to the Nashville crowd, footage aired of Fandango and Tyler Breeze's upset wins against the Usos - not only on the Battleground Kickoff Show, but last week on SmackDown Live. Ahead of a Number One Contender's Fatal 4-Way tag team match, Enzo Amore and Big Cass came bouncing out, with Enzo on the mic! Running through their catchphrases, Enzo roasted the get-up of the crushed velvet-wearing "sweet boys" in the ring, as well as the playing-in-paint Jimmy and Jey Uso; and "the Camoflage Geriatrics", the Dudley Boyz! They ran down the rest of SmackDown Live's tag team division, before declaring their six opponents tonight with one word: SAWFT! Who would go on to meet Monday Night Raw's New Day for the WWE Tag Team Championships at SummerSlam?​

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1) The Usos def. Breezango, The Dudley Boyz & Enzo Amore and Big Cass in a Fatal 4-Way tag team match to earn the opportunity to meet The New Day for the WWE Tag Team Championship at SummerSlam (8:22) | Contested in sudden death rules, with two participants from individual teams legal at a time, it was all action with Tyler Breeze and Fandango hoping to be spectators at ringside, only to be brought in to fight by Jimmy and Jey Uso. D-Von and Bubba Ray executed their signature offense on Enzo when Cass came in to even the odds. The Usos soared onto Breezango and the Dudleys on the floor, when followed by Enzo diving off of Cass's shoulders headed into the break. Cass would later land the East River Crossing on Bubba, and the Lawn Dart connected - but when Enzo had the win, the Usos backdoored to victory by dragging Cass out into a double superkick - and Jey stole the win with a roll-up with the tights against Enzo. With their right earned to SummerSlam, the losing participants watched on in dismay as the sly Usos celebrated famously in the ring. Jimmy and Jey were en route to meet the New Day in a cross-brand WWE Tag Team Championship match at "the Biggest Party of the Summer".

In his office, Daniel Bryan spoke with Neville about the limitless supply of opportunities that awaited him on SmackDown Live. As the General Manager implied these could occur imminently, in walked Kevin Owens. "The Man That Gravity Forgot" was dismayed to hear KO rant and complain about how much of a joke it was that he had made it to a hellhole like Nashville - only to find that he hadn't even been booked! Owens questioned what kind of leadership "the Yes Man" was trying to show the Universe. Owens questioned what happened to "the People's Brand", though Daniel told Kev he was right. Thankfully for him, Neville's originally planned opponent was injured - which left an available slot for Owens himself! Owens scoffed telling Daniel he could do much better than that, though Neville would stand his ground squaring off with the Canadian! Neville told Kevin to put his money where his mouth was, proclaiming that they would see who the real joke was.

Backstage, Lana donned the Bulgarian flag as her husband Rusev walked stoically with the WWE United States Championship around his waist. Following last week's loss to Cesaro, which the champ felt "the Viper" was personally responsible for, "the Bulgarian Brute" prepared to make a title defense against Randy Orton: up next!

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Following a video replaying the verbal exchange had between AJ Styles and John Cena earlier tonight, a video package replayed "the Phenomenal One's" arrival to the WWE, where he shockingly debuted as #3 in the 2016 Royal Rumble match. AJ's early run was documented, showing his matches with the likes of Chris Jericho and Roman Reigns, before he came face-to-face with his arch rival: John Cena himself. With the first-time-ever dream match set in stone, AJ sided with some strong Club cohorts in Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson ahead of Money in the Bank.

2) Rusev (w/Lana) (c) vs Randy Orton ended in a no contest; Rusev retains the WWE United States Championship (11:18) | Lana watched as her man jumped the gun attacking "the Viper" before the bell sounded, though Randy would swiftly fight back and score plenty of near falls. "The Bulgarian Brute" took shortcuts provided by his wife Lana, and began to isolate "the Apex Predator" with an array of spinal-based attacks. Orton scored with the draping DDT, though Lana would put her husband's foot on the bottom rope - prompting her ejection from ringside. As Rusev missed the Machka Kick, the RKO connected - when over the barricade hopped Brock Lesnar! "The Beast Incarnate" attacked his SummerSlam opponent as well as the official, whilst "the Ravishing Russian" came back to ringside to help the champion escape!

Brock Lesnar's onslaught continued after taking out the official, but an F-5 would see Randy Orton slip free and tease an RKO - only to be taken to Suplex City instead! Paul Heyman was spotted at ringside in a shocking appearance, as Lesnar proceeded to mount "the Viper" and tease grounding and pounding him ahead of SummerSlam. Thinking better of it, his "Advocate" climbed into the ring and breathed the words "nineteen days" - a message hand-delivered!

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Following from a replay of the shocking appearance and ambush from "the Beast Incarnate", Renee Young daringly pursued Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman on their way out of the building. "The Advocate" answered on his "Beast's" behalf, commenting on the skilled persistence of the broadcast journalist. Unfortunately for her, she was not going to like what she would get. Referring to the Internet as full of speculation, nobody could ever predict when, why or what would happen when Brock Lesnar appeared. He could be on SmackDown Live next week, he could be on Monday Night Raw in less than a fortnight - but he would definitely show up for SummerSlam. Paul hoped Randy would do the same, though it may be wise he bury his head in the sand and avoid "the Biggest Party of the Summer". Why? Because if what Brock Lesnar was capable of doinng tonight meant anything, "the Viper" had better not wish to find out what Brock had in store come SummerSlam. The two departed, with Paul imploring viewers of SmackDown Live to tune into Raw this Monday to find out what "the Mayor of Suplex City" had to say!

3) Neville def. Kevin Owens (3:45) | KO ambushed "the Man That Gravity Forgot" on his route down to the ring, though Neville would wisely escape the Apron Powerbomb in the nick of time. While KO would be the aggressor throughout, Neville would opportunistically reverse the Pop-Up Powerbomb into a snap hurricanrana for the upset! Neville would escape the ring before KO could get revenge, forcing the Canadian to throw a tantrum in the ring. Nothing had been going his way since losing to Sami Zayn at Battleground!

Rusev walked the hall with a cheery grin on his face, as wife Lana wished to celebrate her husband's successful WWE United States Championship defense. Enter Cesaro, who slow-clapped for "the Bulgarian Brute", commenting on how Rusev had more skin on his teeth than anybody ever thought. The intense Bulgarian went nose-to-nose with "the Swiss Superman", who reminded Rusev of how last week ended - with him beating him one-two-three in that ring. Cesaro mused how Rusev scraped past Randy Orton tonight, but what was stopping them from getting it on? Sheamus entered the frame, disgruntled to hear of ill-deserved challenges galore! The Irishman argued that if anybody deserved an opportunity to be champion - it was "the Celtic Warrior". Bringing up his pros, Cesaro threw one in of his own: the fact Shamo like to kiss butts and get his butt whooped! The two got into a shoving contest, buying Rusev and Lana time to leave the scene. The European and the Irishman exchanged challenges, with a match made for next week!

Footage aired of Natalya scoring the win against Becky Lynch at Battleground using the Sharpshooter, followed by "the Lass Kicker" defeating the Second-Generation Superstar last week on SmackDown Live using the Dis-Arm-Her. Tonight, a graphic showed that a rubber match would settle the score between the two foes - in a Submission match, coming up next.​

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Kevin Owens was all bent out of shape following the upset loss to Neville. Pacing back and forth, he denied ever losing to that big-eared goon from Newcastle-upon-Tyne - Owens going as far as to claim it sounded even worse than Nashville! Shane McMahon walked past, when Kevin grabbed the Commissioner's attention, putting his hands on him and demanding a rematch with Neville next week. Shane O'Mac threw KO's hands away and dressed him down, warning him to never put his hands on him again! As far as what happened tonight, KO got what was coming to him - underestimating "the Man That Gravity Forgot!" Shane questioned Kev how badly he wanted Neville, with the Canadian raving affirmatively. Shane told him good - he would get his match next week: against Kane! As McMahon departed, Kev angrily questioned if anybody made any sense around here whatsoever. It was not the match he was looking for!

4) Becky Lynch def. Natalya in a Submission match (5:27) | Trash talking saw the two ladies get it on, with Becky Lynch showing plenty of fight early, just for Natalya to resort to shortcuts. Using her training from her days in the Dungeon, the daughter of Jim "the Anvil" Neidhart focused on the back of Becky, when the two began a swift sequence of submissions. The Sharpshooter went locked in, but Becky made it to the ropes. Furiously, Nattie looked for it again just for Becky to transition into the Dis-Arm-Her. With nowhere to run, the Canadian tapped to "the Lass Kicker."

Scoring the submission victory in this rubber match against Natalya, Becky Lynch celebrated though it would not last for long. Eva Marie made an unwanted appearance with a microphone in hand. Wishing "the Lass Kicker" insincere congratulations, Becky had moved up the food chain a tiny notch - but she still had a ways to go to get on the level of Eva Marie! Becky told Eva to bring it, though instead she would decide to turn tail and leave instead - giving the WWE Universe a whole lot to look at. "All Red Everything" was officially on "the Blue Brand".

A video package aired, recapping the deep-rooted issues between dream match nemeses AJ Styles and John Cena. Clips of their last major clash at Money in the Bank saw "the Phenomenal One" miraculously #BeatUpJohnCena, though it came with the assistance from the Club's Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson. Tonight, with Gallows and Anderson a part of Monday Night Raw - it was all up to AJ to defeat John Cena alone.

John Cena walked with a big smile on his face, optimistic ahead of the second singles altercation with dream opponent AJ Styles. A rematch from Money in the Bank would determine the next challenger to the WWE Championship... when Dean Ambrose appeared before him! The two keenly smiled at one another and exchanged pleasantries, when "the Lunatic Fringe" openly stated he hoped John won tonight - so he could beat his ass. One way or another, the champ was here: pointing at the title on his own shoulder to prove it. Who would go to SummerSlam?

A vignette aired, promoting the debut of Nia Jax. With close-ups of her eyes and her destruction over NXT as the focal point, "The Immovable Object" was coming soon to SmackDown Live.

Mauro Ranallo, John Bradshaw Layfield and David Otunga discussed SummerSlam, with the newly announced match for the WWE Tag Team Championships determined between The New Day of Monday Night Raw, and the Usos from SmackDown Live. Shifting gears to talk next week, SmackDown Live would see Kane return to meet Kevin Owens; Sheamus would battle Cesaro, coming off their backstage confrontation; and out for revenge, the Usos would meet Enzo Amore and Big Cass!

5) AJ Styles def. John Cena to earn the opportunity to meet Dean Ambrose for the WWE Championship at SummerSlam (18:38) | If their classic at Money in the Bank was anything to go off of, this rematch looked to have all hands on deck. It proved to exceed expectations as John Cena looked to gain a quick victory against AJ Styles to avenge last month's loss. "The Phenomenal One" used everything within his arsenal to keep Cena down, but he would just keep getting up and coming back for more. Finally a comeback led to "the Five Moves of Doom", though an Attitude Adjustment shockingly saw AJ get a shoulder up! Styles capitalized from a DDT on the apron, when the Calf Crusher was applied. Cena reversed it into the STF, though AJ made the ropes. Styles conversely had the Phenomenal Forearm kicked out of, and an attempt at the Styles Clash was reversed into a hurricanrana from Cena! A series of sunset flips saw Cena nearly take the win - when Baron Corbin shockingly ran down to ringside, decking Cena through the ropes! AJ took advantage with the springboard 450 splash - going 2-0 against Cena!

Baron Corbin had delivered on his promise to make things happen for himself tonight on SmackDown Live, and AJ Styles could hardly believe his own ears. Hearing his own name declared the victor, "the Phenomenal One" jumped for joy - the win against John Cena meaning that he was now en route to "the Biggest Party of the Summer". As the WWE Championship match for SummerSlam was confirmed however, out stormed his next opponent - Dean Ambrose. Without pausing for a second, "the Lunatic Fringe" arrived - and immediately drilled his next challenger with the Dirty Deeds! Ambrose paraded the WWE title high, as SmackDown Live went off the air!​

 

[DTP]

August 21, 2016 - Barclays Center - Brooklyn, New York
Official Theme Song: "Who's With Me" by Flo Rida
Official Theme Song: "Take It From Me" by Kongos

Fatal Four Way Match for the WWE Universal Championship
Bray Wyatt vs Seth Rollins vs Roman Reigns vs Finn Balor

Singles Match
Brock Lesnar vs Randy Orton

WWE Championship
Dean Ambrose (c) vs AJ Styles

WWE Women's Championship
Sasha Banks(c) vs Charlotte

WWE Intercontinental Championship
The Miz(c) vs Dolph Ziggler​

WWE Tag Team Championship
The New Day (c) vs The Usos​