The Pandemic Project · Keep Your Distance · RAW · November 9, 2020 ·

DTP · Sep 29, 2022

Friday Night SmackDown: HHH XXV #1079 – April 24, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by

LESS THAN THREE WEEKS FROM MONEY IN THE BANK

205 Live #176 – April 24, 2020
- Ariya Daivari shared the matches that molded him into the Cruiserweight pioneer he is today.
- Bret Hart def. Steve Austin with a pinning reversal to the Million Dollar Dream. (28:36) [SURVIVOR SERIES 1996 - Nov 17, 1996]
- Oney Lorcan def. Ariya Daivari in an Anything Goes match with a Superplex through a table. (20:56) [205 LIVE #137 - Jul 9, 2019]

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A video package aired, showing events that led to the rise of Triple H to being one of the most legendary performers in WWE history. For over a quarter of a century, "The Game" had made WWE his home. A countless-time WWE Champion, and having risen through the ranks to becoming the COO of the entire company - tonight, Triple H celebrates his 25th Year Anniversary in the WWE!

The opening video package aired, bringing us to the WWE Performance Center for a very special edition of Friday Night SmackDown! Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed us to FOX, on a night where Triple H would celebrate 25 years as a part of the WWE. The two discussed the greatest moments in "the Game's" legendary career, saying tonight would be known as HHH XXV!

WWE Universal Championship Tournament Quarter-Final - WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn vs Jeff Hardy
WWE Universal Championship Tournament Quarter-Final - Mojo Rawley vs King Corbin

'A Moment of Bliss' with the Boss 'n' Hug Connection
The WWE Women's Tag Team Champions had taken over the ring ahead of 'A Moment of Bliss', as Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross sat on their chairs in the ring. "Naughty Nikki" sipped her cup of coffee while "Little Miss Bliss" welcomed everybody to HHH XXV: a special edition of Friday Night SmackDown on FOX - but for all that Triple H had done in this business, that wasn't why they had arranged for this edition of 'A Moment of Bliss'. Alexa gritted her teeth when discussing their guests tonight for "domineering" the Women's Revolution - introducing the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks. Making a grand entrance, the BFFs were all smiles as they exchanged insincere pleasantries with Alexa and Nikki. The champ would steal Alexa's chair for herself and question what the heck took so long! Calling themselves the most prolific guests imaginable on this poor excuse for a show, "the Boss" remarked that they were doing Bliss and Cross a huge favor right now!

Alexa Bliss fired back at Bayley, reminding her of how this was the same show that the nWo were literally on not long ago. Nikki Cross watched eagerly as Bliss grilled the SmackDown Women's Champion for doing not a whole lot other than spreading gossip and stealing glory of late. She brought up sending Lacey Evans home in tears two weeks ago, when Sasha Banks piped up - reminding her of the fact that much like Bliss and Cross somehow managed to do at WrestleMania; her best friend Bayley outlasted four other losers to retain the SmackDown Women's Champion at "the Greatest Spectacle in Sports Entertainment". It caused Bliss to bring up how Bayley did it, almost letting slip of the fact she pulled the rug from under Sasha to cause her elimination! Banks questioned what she was talking about, but Bayley piped up: this was defamation, and they didn't deserve this treatment! Bliss got in Bayley's face and brought up other treatment she might not have deserve - challenging for her title!

Alexa Bliss and Bayley exchanged glares in a staredown when Nikki Cross hoped to diffuse the situation. She claimed 'A Moment of Bliss' was not the forum for this, and tried to explain what the purpose of this show was - to bring people together and entertain the WWE Universe! Sasha Banks shut her down, telling Nikki how much she pitied her - not for being so wrapped up in her own insanity to realize Alexa was manipulating her friendship, but because she thought she was a good person. Sasha said if anybody should be handing out title opportunities - it should be the Boss 'n' Hug Connection out to bring the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships back around their waists! Bayley agreed, when finally Cross lashed out. Losing her temper, the Scot picked up her chair and hurled it from the ring. Fired up, Nikki declared nobody underestimated her: and if Sasha and Bayley wanted a shot, Sasha had to go through her! Sasha and Bayley regrouped at ringside to talk, when "the Boss" accepted the challenge!

A 'HHH XXV Moment' aired, taking us back to April 30, 1995. On the Wrestling Challenge, a star was born as a young "Blue Blood" from Greenwich, Connecticut made his WWE debut - Hunter Hearst Helmsley defeating Buck Zumhoff. From there, his growth was established in becoming a white collar snob. In his early years, Helmsley's first breakout moment had to come on the October 21, 1996 edition of Monday Night RAW when he defeated Marc Mero to be crowned WWE Intercontinental Champion.

The Artist Collective stood backstage, as WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn presented Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura with the facts: how Triple H's star was born when he became the coveted holder of the gold "the Great Liberator" how held. Talking up the success of their organization as a threesome, Sami was pleased to report that after their attack on Drew Gulak last week, "the Militant Mat-Mite's" spot in the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match had opened up. This meant next week, either "the Artist" or "the Swiss Cyborg" would be able to walk out of a eight-man Over The Top Rope Challenge, and go on to become Mr. Money in the Bank! The trio were pleased, when Sami brought up even bigger matters: how from tonight, Sami had the opportunity to transcend greatness. By beating Jeff Hardy tonight, and winning the eight-man tournament at Money in the Bank on May 10, he would be the first man to simultaneously hold IC gold - as well as the vacant WWE Universal Championship!

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1) Sasha Banks def. WWE Women's Tag Team Champion Nikki Cross (5:31)
- Following 'A Moment of Bliss' before the commercial break, SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and WWE Women's Tag Team Champion Alexa Bliss joined Michael Cole and Corey Graves on commentary for singles competition between Sasha Banks and Nikki Cross.
- Nikki Cross was fired up after the events that led to this match, causing Sasha Banks to run from the ring. But as "the Boss" turned to Bayley for assistance, the Scot came from behind with a dive through the ropes! "Naughty Nikki" was making herself known when a distraction from the SmackDown Women's Champion saw Banks connect with a knee lift upon re-entry to the ring. Banks kept Cross grounded from there, driving her knees down into the ribcage as she rested across the top rope. Bayley and Alexa's words on commentary remained furious, when Nikki responded to "the Boss's" disrespectful comments with a comeback made! Cross looked for the Purge when Banks broke out with the Backstabber - but the Bank Statement went reversed into a roll-up. Banks responded with a crucifix pin - clinging to the bottom rope to steal it!

Sasha Banks had her hand raised, having pulled a fast one against one-half of the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions! Alexa Bliss immediately left commentary and hoped to contest the decision with the referee, but inadvertently left herself open to receiving a shot from the SmackDown Women's Championship gold courtesy of Bayley from behind! Nikki Cross confronted "the Boss" in disbelief inside the ring, when Bayley once again came from behind. Cross tried to fight off both members of the Boss 'n' Hug Connection only to be overwhelmed. Finally, Bliss slipped into the ring causing the BFFs to bail. Alexa had Nikki's back, as the bad blood continues to boil against Bayley and Sasha!

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Mojo Rawley bounced on the spot in the backstage area. Moments from perhaps his biggest opportunity to date as a WWE Superstar, "the Hype Man" had the chance to vy for the vacant WWE Universal Championship. The WWE 24/7 Champion Rob Gronkowski soon appeared to greet Mojo, patting him on the shoulder and wishing him luck. Mojo set off for the ring - to meet King Corbin in Quarter-Final action!

The Disrespected King
Mojo Rawley made his entrance in the empty WWE Performance Center, as "the Hype Man" prepared for the chance to qualify for the vacant WWE Universal Championship. King Corbin arrived moments later, in cowl and crown. With a microphone in hand, the King contested whether this was really fair at all! One week following his dominant victory against Elias in a Falls Count Anywhere match, now he had to prove his worth all over again - against a guy like Mojo Rawley. Corbin declared himself "Wrestling Royalty", whereas all he had going for him was clinging to fame from an NFL reject like the WWE 24/7 Champion Rob Gronkowski! Corbin believed Mojo didn't deserve to be in this tournament, then brought up not forgetting the humiliation he endured thanks to Gronk, Rawley and "the Drifter" six weeks ago. Climbing into the ring, the King declared lightning would not strike twice and he would become a champion the WWE Universe could be proud of - when Rawley cracked Corbin in the jaw!

2) King Corbin def. Mojo Rawley in a WWE Universal Championship Tournament Quarter-Final match (3:29)
- It was six weeks ago on Friday Night SmackDown where Mojo Rawley presented Rob Gronkowski to the WWE Universe as a contracted WWE Superstar. King Corbin had interrupted him, but together Gronk and Mojo would humiliate him with a shove sending him to the canvas! Now was the King's chance at retribution, but Rawley was out to prove he was more than the best friend of the WWE 24/7 Champion. Rawley struck with the discus punch for a near fall, when "Wrestling Royalty" evaded the Hyper Drive. The fist fight continued at ringside, when Rawley sent him back inside for the Deep Six to connect! Corbin only got a two-count, and the End of Days saw Mojo reverse into a back suplex. Mojo went to the top rope but the King would crotch him by shoving the referee into the corner. The End of Days connected giving him the win!

Qualifying to the second rope, King Corbin had avenged the humiliation he had faced over a month ago against Mojo Rawley. "Wrestling Royalty" appeared smug, as he had his hand raised in the middle of the ring. But as the King had the referee hand him his crown, he now had two more matches to go ahead of the Finals for the vacant WWE Universal Championship at Money in the Bank.

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Jeff Hardy - Chapter II: The Fall
Following an introduction by Michael Cole and Corey Graves, a continuation of the mini-documentary series on the life of Jeff Hardy aired, titled Chapter II: The Fall. Jeff Hardy's passion for sports entertainment continued, as he further endeared himself to members of the WWE Universe into the late 1990s. A lifelong dream came true when he and his older brother Matt received contracts through the post - beginning their careers as full-fledged WWE Superstars. Together they revolutionized tag team action, with the brother tag team of the Hardy Boyz inspiring an entire generation. From Ladder matches against Edge and Christian to Tables matches against the Dudley Boyz, arguably their greatest contribution came with the creation of the Tables, Ladders and Chairs match. They would become five-time World Tag Team Champions, though their fame would not to last.

Ever the daredevil, the dangerous antics of Jeff Hardy took a toll on his body. Relying on painkillers and recreational drugs to fight the pain, it would be what cost him his WWE dream in 2003. His release saw many WWE Superstars disappointed in "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior's" trajectory - though he would soon make a comeback. Re-signed in 2006, another lifelong goal was achieved when he became WWE Champion - but after finally doing what he had chased for so many years...it was not to last. On September 13, 2009, weeks after his contract expired, Jeff was arrested on charges of drug trafficking. Messing up majorly, he would spend ten days behind bars and be ordered to pay a $100,000 fine, and undergo 30 months probation. Jeff said he knew he'd messed up, but vowed to turn it around.

Next week - Jeff Hardy - Chapter III: The Redemption

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Fire & Desire's friendship remained up in the air as Sonya Deville walked the backstage area of the WWE Performance Center. With Mandy Rose known to be present tonight at Friday Night SmackDown, Sonya appeared saddened almost, as she headed for the ring to clear the air with "the Golden Goddess".

A 'HHH XXV Moment' aired, recapping the historic formation of Triple H and Shawn Michaels. Joined by "the Ninth Wonder of the World" Chyna, D-Generation X was formed and took the WWE by storm in 1997. Whether it came by harrassing Michael Cole, making a mockery of their adversaries, or by performing the State of the Union Address, DX stole the show each and every week. In the aftermath of WrestleMania XIV, with HBK forced to retire due to back injury, HHH's escalation would continue to develop. Expanding DX to feature X-Pac, Road Dogg and Billy Gunn, the hijinks of DX saw them go as far as to invade WCW Monday Nitro in a tank on April 27, 1998!

An Ultimatum For Fire & Desire
While the friendship that Triple H and Shawn Michaels shared paved the way for "The Game's" rise to the top in the WWE, for Fire & Desire their friendship had been mired in controversy. Sonya Deville wore all black as she came down to the ring, sighing into the microphone upon her arrival. Wishing to speak to her best friend, she didn't want to reminisce about the past with "the Golden Goddess" - she wanted her best friend to listen. Sonya said it had been weeks since the last time they shared a space and talked, and how it was eating her alive. After all of their history, Mandy was allowing something so asinine and stupid get in the way of their friendship! What made Fire & Desire was not their beauty, nor was it their skills or charisma - but their bond. Together they came to be partners through training on WWE Tough Enough; Sonya had confided in Mandy, much like Rose confided in Deville. Together they paved their own paths into the WWE to get here...but superstardom changed Mandy.

Sonya Deville voiced her disgust in having to stand to one side and witness the one woman she cared about more than anything become a primadonna. She lusted for men, became a thirst trap for Instagram followers and Twitter likes, and became the very thing she always said she hoped to avoid - an object. But that's exactly what she was now! Sonya questioned if it was worth it for Mandy to throw it all away, to be in love with a putrid human blob like Otis. Questioning what about Fire & Desire, Sonya was about to have it answered when Mandy Rose interrupted. For the first time since WrestleMania, the unsatisfied "Golden Goddess" climbed into the ring and took the microphone. She told Sonya she listened loud and clear, and had one thing to say in response: why couldn't she let her be happy? She did so much for Sonya, and if anybody was throwing it all away it was her by choosing to destroy their friendship.

Mandy Rose listened as Sonya Deville declared that "the Golden Goddess" was abandoning their friendship, which Mandy questioned - all because she didn't like Mandy's budding, genuine relationship with Otis? The blonde told Sonya she had the wrong idea about Otis: he was warm, loving and kind with a heart of gold - the purest she had ever known! Mandy told Sonya despite what she tried to do, all she wanted was for her to give them a chance: and to keep their friendship alive. Deville lamented it momentarily, but shot back telling her she hoped she'd enjoyed her time with him, in spite of the favor herself and Dolph Ziggler tried doing for her. Sonya would tell Mandy if this was how she wanted things to be, she could say goodbye to Fire & Desire for good. Laying down the ultimatum, Deville declared that it would be either her or Otis, and that if Mandy fancied being left alone and with nothing - to save everybody a favor and choose Otis! Deville left Rose alone in the ring, floored by the predicament!

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A vignette aired, showing the Forgotten Sons in clips from NXT. Time and time again, this triad of underrated and underappreciated talent from "the Black and Gold Brand" bided by as opportunities went to those more desirable - but in the minds of Jaxson Ryker, Wesley Blake and Steve Cutler, they had waited long enough. In the shadows of a curtained-off backstage area, the trio spoke about not having the poise or the way with words that the New Day shared. They were colorful, they were flamboyant, and they were successful - but in Ryker's mind, they only made it because the Forgotten Sons allowed it. But now, they were here - and together, they vowed to go forgotten no longer. Cutler issued the challenge for next week: the New Day against the Forgotten Sons!

Next week - The Forgotten Sons vs The New Day

A video package aired, recapping the events of last week. After harsh words were exchanged in an in-ring confrontation earlier that night, Sheamus and Braun Strowman met in a WWE Universal Championship Tournament Quarter-Final match. "The Celtic Warrior" took advantage of the former WWE Intercontinental Champion, as with the referee down, the Irishman would cause severe injury to "the Monster Among Men" with use of the steel steps! Strowman's inability to move caused him to be counted out, as the vulnerable and horrifying screams of the giant would go shunned by one finite Brogue Kick after the match.

Playing For Keeps
Backstage at the WWE Performance Center, Alyse Ashton was standing by with the casually dressed Sheamus. In a wifebeater vest, braces and a flatcap, "the Celtic Warrior" was asked about the damages done to Braun Strowman last week, and whether had had any remorse for what happened. Sheamus scoffed, telling Alyse that what happened went down exactly like it should have. For so long, the boys in the back had been quivering at the sight of "the Monster Among Men"...but what he did last week was take that monster out. He made Braun look like a feeble little boy, and with Strowman on the bench with a fractured ankle, he did it all to show that he was playing for keeps! He called himself a WWE mainstay, someone that had been around the block a couple times over the past twelve years. But there was no mistake to be made: if the WWE Universal Championship was for anybody, it was Sheamus.

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3) Jeff Hardy def. WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn in a WWE Universal Championship Tournament Quarter-Final match (8:53) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Following the braggadocious claims of Sami Zayn to the Artist Collective earlier tonight, the WWE Intercontinental Champion had Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura join him at ringside for the final Quarter-Final match in the vacant WWE Universal Championship Tournament - but before the bell sounded, the referee would have "the Swiss Cyborg" and "the Artist" both sent to the back!
- Jeff Hardy got off to a great start against "the Great Liberator", a running dropkick causing Sami Zayn to retreat. A dive to the floor saw the match go through the commercial break, but when they returned, Sami had taken the lead with a back body drop on "the Charismatic Enigma" over the barricade! The WWE Intercontinental Champion worked away at the veteran, who powered out of a Blue Thunder Bomb. Jeff finally was able to sidestep the Helluva Kick en route to delivering the Twist of Fate - but Sami would get his foot on the rope! The action continued with Sami and Jeff jostling strike-for-strike, when a double knockdown saw the Artist Collective return ringside. They argued with the official, but Daniel Bryan would hit ringside and take both men out! With Yes Kicks, "the YES Man" took Cesaro down and ran Shinsuke Nakamura up the rampway. Karma for Drew Gulak delivered, inside Sami walked into a body slam that was followed with the Swanton Bomb!

Jeff Hardy was sore as he rose from the carcass of the WWE Intercontinental Champion. Sami Zayn had been beaten, while Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura regrouped at the top of the rampway. It came as karma from Daniel Bryan for his training buddy Drew Gulak, who had been taken out of the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match in a heinous backstage beating last week at the Artist Collective's hands! With this victory, the Semi-Final round had been set with King Corbin set to meet Jeff Hardy and Daniel Bryan to meet Sheamus - but before then, Bryan applauded "the Charismatic Enigma" on his victory. Climbing into the ring, "the YES Man" shook hands with Jeff, who soon locked eyes on Bryan. As Bryan allowed Jeff to have his moment however, there remained the chance this could be the Finals for the vacant WWE Universal Championship at Money in the Bank!

Next week - WWE Universal Championship Tournament Semi-Final match - Jeff Hardy vs King Corbin

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A 'HHH XXV Moment' aired, taking us back to January 7, 2002 at Madison Square Garden. New York City, New York was the site of the return of Triple H after eight months away due to a torn quadriceps injury. MSG roared for "the Game", but were even louder with his victory in the 2002 Royal Rumble match mere weeks later. 2002 had been quickly cemented as HHH's year, and that much could be declared true as it was Triple H who would walk into WrestleMania X8 and walk away WWE Undisputed Champion.

Michael Cole and Corey Graves discussed events that took place this past week, and ran down the line-up for this coming week on Monday Night RAW.

Money in the Bank Preview Triple Threat match - Shayna Baszler vs Asuka vs Liv Morgan
No-Disqualification match - Rey Mysterio vs Samoa Joe
Bianca Belair vs Nia Jax
Aleister Black vs Austin Theory

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SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks walked backstage, "the Legit Boss" listening to her BFF laugh at the expense of Nikki Cross. Bayley told Sasha that she ruled and that ignoramous "Naughty Nikki" literally drooled. Alyse Ashton caught up with the two, asking about earlier tonight. Bayley told her no matter what Alexa Bliss and her "Five Feet of Fury" had to say, the fact her galpal lost tonight said she was not deserving of a title opportunity. Sasha brought up the Money in the Bank Ladder match in less than three weeks, and declared that she very much liked her chances of winning - but as for the future for the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions? She didn't like their chances much at all. Bayley revealed there was one slot remaining in the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match, and she had done some contacting and made it so that Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross would have to battle it out next week for that spot come Money in the Bank! Bayley joked, calling that Twisted and Bliss!

Next week - Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match - WWE Women's Tag Team Champion Alexa Bliss vs WWE Women's Tag Team Champion Nikki Cross

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4) Carmella def. Dana Brooke to qualify into the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match (4:26)
- With the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match rounded out for the RAW Brand, Carmella and Dana Brooke looked to see who would join Sasha Banks in representing the SmackDown Brand. Dana Brooke had a lot to prove and got in an early forearm shot from a handshake at the match's start, but Carmella's agility would see her take the lead. Dana used her power to assert dominance, and a military press slam saw "the Brutal Beaut" on top. With a Samoan driver, Dana had Carmella down in a straitjacket hold when Carmella fought up to her feet. Brooke's Michinoku Driver was attempted, but "the Princess of Staten Island" would reverse into a victory roll for a near fall. Brooke tried another military press, but Carmella struck with a lucky super kick - and the Cone of Silence forced Brooke to submit!

Dana Brooke gasped for air as Carmella came to her feet. With her hand raised, "the Princess of Staten Island" was pleased to join the field for the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match in less than three weeks! Meanwhile, "the Brutal Beaut" showed frustration in another loss absorbed in such a high-octane position.

Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match - Asuka vs Shayna Baszler vs Liv Morgan vs Sasha Banks vs Carmella vs TBA

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With his best friend Mojo Rawley's defeat earlier tonight at the hands of King Corbin in the WWE Universal Championship Tournament, WWE 24/7 Champion Rob Gronkowski proudly wore the gold around his waist backstage. Following a surprise appearance confronting Riddick Moss this past week on Monday Night RAW, Gronk had shown he wasn't afraid of "So Smooth" - but now, the SuperBowl Champion appeared to heading for the ring to address the WWE Universe!

A 'HHH XXV Moment' aired, recapping the birth and establishment of Evolution. It came as the birthchild of then-World Heavyweight Champion Triple H, with Ric Flair as an acting mentor and assailant, to bring two proteges in Randy Orton and Batista to superstardom. At times, they controlled the RAW Brand with possession of all of the gold, while at others, they merely dominated against threats such as Shawn Michaels, Goldberg, Kevin Nash and later, The Shield. Evolution would pass "the Game" by with Orton and Batista's own rises to superstardom - but it all came to fruition as the brainchild of "the Creator".

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Gronk's Challenge
In his second appearance on WWE television this week, the WWE 24/7 Champion made his arrival to the WWE Performance Center following the introduction by Michael Cole. Rob Gronkowski danced less than he has in recent weeks, climbing into the ring and making the gold around his waist known. Wearing it atop his tracksuit pants, Michael hoped to gain better insight as to what he planned to do with a rival like "So Smooth" Riddick Moss. Smiling modestly, Gronk let it be known that he was a patient individual, and was also one who picked up new things at the drop of a hat. It was what he did, much like he picked up football and went on to become a multiple-time SuperBowl Champion; he did with sports entertaining, and becoming WWE 24/7 Champion at WrestleMania! Gronkowski called competing his bread-and-butter, but he understood the frustration on Riddick Moss's end. He was young, hungry and feeling slighted - which was understandable, having had his butt whooped by an NFL player!

Rob Gronkowski talked about Riddick Moss's hurtful remarks over the past couple of weeks, and how jealousy was an awful look for a WWE Superstar such as himself. The WWE 24/7 Champion laid the title out before him on the canvas and told Michael Cole that he didn't come to WWE as a publicity stunt, nor did he come to WWE looking for a paycheck. He came to the WWE to do something he'd had his heart set on for years - and that was compete, and to entertain. If Riddick Moss wanted to come after him, that was fine - but by ducking him, he was the real coward. Gronk wished to change the perception, and that was by giving Moss the invitation to be a man for the first time in his WWE career: and fight him mano e mano! Gronk issued the challenge, putting the WWE 24/7 Championship on the line at Money in the Bank. Cole thanked Gronkowski for his time, and the champ shook his hand.

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Corey Graves discussed the craziness of Rob Gronkowski competing one-on-one against Riddick Moss as a hypothetical, before discussing what had been announced for next Friday night on SmackDown on FOX.

WWE Universal Championship Tournament Semi-Final match - Daniel Bryan vs Sheamus
WWE Universal Championship Tournament Semi-Final match - King Corbin vs Jeff Hardy
Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Qualifying match - Over The Top Rope Challenge - Cesaro vs Shinsuke Nakamura vs Apollo Crews vs John Morrison vs Shorty G vs TBA
WWE Women's Tag Team Championship - Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross (c) vs SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks
The Forgotten Sons vs The New Day

Meanwhile, the action had not finished yet as Dolph Ziggler headed down a hallway with a cocky swagger. Psyched up, "the Show Off" was set to meet Tucker after taking him out two weeks ago, in a Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Qualifying match - up next!

A 'HHH XXV Moment' aired, showing the best moments in the relationship between Triple H and Stephanie McMahon. From drive-thru weddings in Las Vegas to reigning as WWE Champion and WWE Women's Champion, there was no power couple greater than "the Game" and "the Billion Dollar Princess". It would transcend reality in years later, as HHH's relationship with the McMahon Family would find himself usher in a new era in the WWE as the acting WWE COO. Whether as the Authority, or the future rulers of the WWE, the legacy of the legendary career of Triple H was certified by the creation and uprising of NXT.

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Tucker made his way out to the stage in the WWE Performance Center, but before he even had a chance to make it to the ring for revenge against the man who took him out two weeks ago, Dolph Ziggler came from behind with a steel chair shot to the spine! Inexplicably, the rage of "the Show Off" was so much that he followed with a second chair shot rendering one-half of Heavy Machinery down and hurting on the rampway! Now taking a calm and confident swagger to the ring, Dolph secured a microphone and used the top ropes in the corner as a hammock! Sitting back and relaxing, Ziggler slapped his gums and said this match would not take place - FOX officials would be better off simply naming him as qualified for the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match. Unfortunately for him...Otis came bounding out to the stage. His eyes bugged out and incensed, Otis let out a war cry before stomping to the ring to fight...there would be a match after all!

5) Otis (substitute for Tucker) def. Dolph Ziggler to qualify into the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match (6:18) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- With Dolph Ziggler hoping to take a shortcut, little did "the Show Off" realize that Otis himself was in the house! In an impromptu rematch from WrestleMania, Otis had Ziggler flee the ring in a hurry. Catching up to him before he managed to escape the ringside area, Otis hammered away at Dolph before a clothesline sent him over the barricade! The brawl continued until a gorilla press slam saw Otis send Dolph back ringside, headed into the commercial break!
- The gravy train of Big Otis continued returning back from the break, when Dolph Ziggler struck with a chop block! Targeting the back of Otis' leg, Dolph looked to focus on the limb but the size of Otis allowed him to come back with a deadlift sidewalk slam. Sonya Deville suddenly arrived, providing the essential distraction for "the Show Off" to return to the leg, though Otis remained resilient on the ground. With a headstand sleeper hold, Dolph's arrogance shined with Otis fading. Otis miraculously powered up, hulking up and snapmaring Ziggler away. With a body slam, Otis prepared the Caterpillar - but Sonya tugged at his foot! Mandy Rose came stomping out to ringside, confronting her so-called friend from Fire & Desire. The two's confrontation went on as Dolph attempted the Zig Zag - but Otis showed his strength, reversing into the powerslam for the victory!

Otis successfully qualified into the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match, despite not being originally scheduled to compete in this match! Mandy Rose jumped for joy at ringside, quickly rushing into the ring to be with her man. Otis was suprised as "the Golden Goddess" dove into her boyfriend's arms with an overwhelming kiss, while at ringside Sonya Deville sulked in frustration. Mandy's mind had been made up, much to the chagrin of her supposed friend! Otis blurted out that this win was dedicated to Tucky, who was receiving medical attention in the backstage area - no doubt watching on proudly of his friend.

Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match - Samoa Joe vs Bobby Lashley vs Ricochet vs TBA vs Otis vs TBA

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Nigh on twenty-five years to his WWE debut, the man of the hour himself had arrived at the WWE Performance Center! Ahead of his 25th Year Anniversary Celebration in the ring, Triple H was playing it cool and informal in jeans and a leather jacket. Up next, HHH XXV would culminate with what was sure to be a memorable spectacle!

Michael Cole and Corey Graves discussed HHH XXV, and how iconic the twenty-five year career of Triple H in the WWE had been. They discussed his imminent arrival, before switching gears to discuss Money in the Bank - live on the WWE Network in less than three weeks on Sunday, May 10! They ran down the updated line-up.

WWE Universal Championship Tournament Finals - Daniel Bryan or Sheamus vs Jeff Hardy or King Corbin
WWE World Championship - Drew McIntyre (c) vs Edge
Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match - Samoa Joe vs Bobby Lashley vs Ricochet vs Otis vs TBA vs TBA
Seth Rollins vs Aleister Black
Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match - Sasha Banks vs Asuka vs Shayna Baszler vs Liv Morgan vs Carmella vs TBA
WWE 24/7 Championship - Rob Gronkowski (c) vs Riddick Moss (NEW!)

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Triple H's 25 Year Anniversary Celebration: An Unprecedented Interruption [THROUGH THE BREAK]
The WWE Performance Center fell into darkness and green, as Triple H began to make his arrival. Twenty-five years into the future from his WWE debut on April 30, 1995, the WWE COO marched out to the empty training facility to Motörhead's legendary theme music. A water bottle in hand, he prepared to take a swig when it was unexpectedly confiscated by a production assistant in all black! Avoiding the risk of contamination and spreading germs, "the Game" was baffled but stepped inside. Alone before the WWEPC, he graced the microphone and voiced disbelief it had been twenty-five years. Looking around, it was not what he ever expected it to look like - when HHH was interrupted by the arrival of "the Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels! The longtime best friend of "the Game" strutted flamboyantly down to the ring in an NXT baseball cap, surprising the man of the hour with a nod from across the ring. A microphone of his own in hand, Shawn complained that there was no way Hunter could hold this celebration without HBK!

Triple H was overjoyed to see his best friend, but as he approached Shawn Michaels for a hug, "the Heartbreak Kid" warned him about social distancing. Shawn chatted about how it was no doubt impressive that after a quarter of a century, "the Game" was not only still a part of the WWE - but he was the guy with the keys to the kingdom! He outlasted so many people that when Shawn called up all of HHH's family and friends - all of them wasted no time showing up for the celebration of a lifetime! HBK presented the empty seats in attendance as Hunter's biggest supporters, before shrugging and admitting that at least Michael Cole and Corey Graves bothered to show up. HBK made mention of himself celebrating a 25th Year Anniversary a couple of years back, asking Hunter what his favorite part was. "The Game" said he couldn't remember that, which is when Shawn bantered that he never got one! He sulked in the corner momentarily, joking that Hunter was a hot-shot with a fancy-pants special on FOX - while ol' HBK got zilch!

In spite of that, Shawn Michaels believed he could at least hold it over "the Game" that he was the real "Mr. WrestleMania" of the two. Showing a video package, HHH's history at "the Grandest Stage of Them All" was showcased - loss after loss, from the Ultimate Warrior at WrestleMania XII to Batista at WrestleMania 21, from The Undertaker at WrestleMania XXVII and XXVIII to Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania XXX. Back at the WWE Performance Center, Shawn snickered in the background when Triple H called into question Shawn's own WrestleMania history - but HBK contested it wasn't about him. Moving on, Shawn discussed all of the highs and lows in his career: from D-Generation X, to WWE Champion, from stabbing his best buddy in the back, to marrying the boss's daughter. Undoubtedly, HBK claimed that was the worst decision he could have ever made! With that, HHH's cell phone rang with a polyphonic version of his own theme song. Shawn called him vein, while HHH answered to find his wife Stephanie McMahon on the other end of the line!

"The Billion Dollar Princess" was less than thrilled to hear Shawn Michaels badmouthing her, which resulted in "the Heartbreak Kid" continuing to mock Triple H for cowering in fear of his wife. Stephanie McMahon revealed that she was watching the show right now and could hear every word out of HBK's mouth! With great hesitance, "the Game" elected to hang up on his wife. The co-founders of D-Generation X continued to banter, when Shawn revealed he was able to get somebody to send in a clip - it just took a lot of searching. On the video screen on the stage, Ric Flair appeared with some special words for Triple H. "The Nature Boy" spoke emotionally full of praise for the two proteges of his who heeded every single word of advice given and ran with it. "Naitch" declared they were like children to him, congratulating Hunter and warning him not to let Shawn give him Sweet Chin Music at the end of the segment. In tears, Flair wrapped up and the clip came to end, with Shawn and Hunter joking at this point he couldn't help but cry.

After unexpectedly going through a commercial break, Shawn Michaels and Triple H continued their playful banter, as "the Heartbreak Kid" revealed they were back on Friday Night SmackDown on FOX! Hopeful of wrapping up this segment, Triple H told Shawn it didn't matter - didn't HBK know he ran WWE now? This was his 25th Anniversary Celebration, and after speaking with FOX - that meant they could go on as long as they wanted! Michaels groaned in bemusement, when Vince McMahon unexpectedly interrupted. Another surprise came from "the Game's" own father-in-law, as the Chairman emerged on the stage. With a hand in his pocket, Vince spoke about the career Hunter had had, the memories he had shared, and the money he had made. When someone talked about a Hall of Fame calibre career, Triple H was sure to go down in the annuls of time as one of the very best in sports entertainment...but Vince and Hunter each knew that simply wasn't going to happen!

Vince McMahon grilled Triple H on how many sinister and despicable things he had accomplished, but maintained that the Chairman was a saint compared to the monstrocities Paul Levesque had committed. Throughout his career he did it all, but he'd still policed the company! He recapped Hunter running down Stone Cold Steve Austin; humiliated Vince and the McMahon Family seven times over; stabbed his best friends in the back; and committed war crimes with a certain mannequin named Katie Vick. Vince said HHH had soiled his own legacy. Shawn warned this was not the time, but Vince said it sure as hell was! Hunter might be his son-in-law, but he was going to do everything in his power to make sure he never made the WWE Hall of Fame. That was the funny thing about karma - what came around went around, and sooner than later Vincent K. McMahon was going to cut "the Game" down! HHH called Vince a jackass, when Vince ordered the segment to end - and just like that, HHH XXV was cut from the air, with Vince marching off the stage proudly. What was lying beneath the surface of the McMahon Family?

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Stojy · Sep 30, 2022

Most the angles seemed to progress along pretty well on this show. Didn't have many major issues, although I think I may have raised on the other forum that you need to find a way to make the MITB match exciting. It feels like wrestlers are winning qualifying matches, and then that's it. There's no heat around it. Hoping that maybe changes somewhat with the interesting Bliss/Nikki dynamic next week. Thumbs up for continue to reference the undertones of Bayley using Sasha, very intrigued to see when and how you decide to pull the trigger on that one.

Only other thing I'm still not digging is the 24/7 stuff. Hoping Gronkowski wins at MITB and retires the title so we can all move on. I have to say the final segment excited me. Hit all the right notes for a Triple H celebration, including the moments throughout the night, but man, that ending with Vince McMahon turning on Triple H is interesting. Feels like the first real huge bit of different creative we might get from you, so certainly looking forward to how that plays out. In one night, it's the most interesting angle you've got running for mine, and I mean that as a compliment. Solid work as always with SD.

DTP · Oct 1, 2022

Stunning Trade Reunites Rob Gronkowski with Tom Brady as Buccaneers

4/22/20

Tom Brady threw 90 touchdown passes to Rob Gronkowski over their nine seasons together with the New England Patriots. Now Brady and Gronkowski just might hit triple digits.

The two are teammates once again after the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' newsworthy 2020 offseason took another startling turn: On Tuesday, the Buccaneers traded a fourth-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft to the Patriots in exchange for Gronkowski and a seventh-round selection.

The fourth-round pick is the second of two Tampa Bay owned in the fourth round, a compensatory selection that was number 139 overall. The pick the Patriots dealt is number 241 overall and was obtained from Seattle last year in a trade of tight end Jacob Hollister.

Though Gronkowski did not play in 2019 after announcing his retirement from the NFL in March, his rights still belonged to the Patriots as there was a year remaining on the six-year contract extension he signed in 2012. That required a trade in order for Gronkowski to return to the NFL and renew his prolific partnership with Brady in Tampa.

Brady is considered by many as the greatest quarterback of all time and Gronkowski wouldn't be far behind in the tight end rankings. He is the most prolific postseason tight end in league history, with 81 catches for 1,163 yards and 12 touchdowns, and his production helped the Patriots advance to five Super Bowls during his tenure and win three of them. His 79 regular-season touchdowns from 2010-19 were the most by any player at any position in that span.

"Rob Gronkowski is one of the best tight ends in NFL history and he plays the game with the type of passion and desire that sets him apart," said Buccaneers General Manager Jason Licht. "Rob has played his entire career alongside Tom Brady and their accomplishments speak for themselves. Together they have developed the type of chemistry on and off the field that is crucial to success. Rob combines elite-level skills as both a receiver and blocker but what really makes him special is the fact that he's a proven winner who brings that championship mindset and work ethic."

Triple H slams Vince McMahon to Corey Graves on WWE's 'After the Bell' Podcast

4/23/20

"I think that his worldview is outdated, it's antiquated, and in 2020 that's not what you wanna be. It's time for a new era and a new regime to take over, and that's what I think myself and Steph are here for."

Paul "Triple H" Levesque appeared on WWE's After the Bell podcast this past week, to promote his 25th anniversary as a part of the WWE ahead of appearing on Friday Night SmackDown. In a new interview with host Corey Graves, the SmackDown color commentator asked "The Game" what he made of his father-in-law's managerial style and received this response.

It appears that relations between Executive Vice President of Talent Strategy and Development, and the Chairman have been strained for quite some time, as Corey questioned what his and wife Stephanie McMahon's relationship with her father looked like nowadays.

Triple H responded claiming that while things remain cordial between himself and Stephanie's father, that the two sides had been distant for some time.

"He's got his own stuff he needs to work out, that's all I'll say."

APRIL 27, 2020 OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: WWE SCHEDULE CHANGES, LAYOFFS, AND QUARTERLY FINANCIALS

4/23/20

- Just one week after WWE announced going live at the Performance Center every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, Vince McMahon changed his mind again. A new schedule, not live as often, was released by WWE this past week. The change was made when both NBC Universal and FOX made it clear to WWE after getting numerous media questions (which neither company answered) that in this pandemic situation they would accept non-live programming despite the contract.

The new schedule enables WWE to save money by doing multiple shows with the same flights in-and-out. Before people would either have to stay in Florida or fly back-and-forth multiple times per week. The new schedule doesn’t have long enough breaks for the talent that does quarantine themselves for two weeks after working these shows. If they have families and want to quarantine themselves afterwards, they wouldn’t be able to see their family before, and still wouldn’t be able to. The latest changes are beneficial more for WWE with cost savings, taping multiple shows closer together, and for those who have to be at the tapings who can stay for three days every two weeks rather than fly in from Connecticut to Florida one to three times every week.

A lot of the talent in WWE lives in Florida. For those that don’t, there are some who are going to stay in Florida rather than go home, but they are the exceptions. Some will go home and quarantine, and be in a constant state of doing that, because there are few breaks longer than two weeks, meaning those who want to be sure if there is a spread from appearing that they don’t infect their families ultimately can’t see their families through the next few months, so it’s a real pick your poison decision.

The continuing of tapings became an issue on 4/21 at the Orange County, FL (where both the Performance Center and Full Sail University are located in) when an employee of the company made a public comment on the subject and asked for the tapings to be shut down. “My employer, World Wrestling Entertainment, AKA WWE, is forcing me to work the TV tapings for its weekly shows despite stay at home orders. I am unable to speak out as I need this job, and I know I will be fired if I approach my higher-ups. Despite sanitary precautions, we cannot maintain social distancing and I have to touch other people. I request the government to shut down these tapings and enforce the stay at home order so my colleagues and I may follow the social distancing rules without fear of repercussion of losing our jobs."

It also doesn’t help the perception from the talent when Lio Rush publicly stated that he was not going to work while the pandemic was going on and then just a short time later, he was fired. He was likely to be on the list anyway, since he was one of the talents who had publicly complained about money and those who had any point made comments perceived as negative were on the list of those let go. However, it does look bad from the outside.

The WWE claimed the person was making up any pressure to work when uncomfortable. This coming week the company will be taping three episodes of Smackdown, two of Raw and two of NXT, meaning everything will be done leading up to the Money In the Bank show. Very few shows after 4/24 will be live. It appears that Raw shows on 5/11, 5/25, 6/8, 6/15 and 6/29 will be taped the day of airing, although likely not necessarily live, because a show that will air later is being taped on the same day and for continuity purposes it wouldn’t make sense for any shows to air live besides the PPV show after this week.

- The main take from the WWE’s first quarter investment conference on 4/23 is that there are a lot of changes due to COVID-19 in how WWE business will go, and some uncertainties, but the company is still on target to do record profits this year even if there are no more house shows.

For the first quarter of 2020, which would only be affected by COVID-19 over the last three weeks, the company took in $291,009,000 in revenues and had $24,145,000 in profits. That compares to $182,448,000 in revenue and an $7,636,000 million loss in the first quarter last year.

The profit margin on the media division was $89.3 million as compared to $16.3 million under the old television deals last year during the same period. Live events lost $3.2 million, as compared to losses of $200,000 during the same quarter last year. Consumer products revenue dropped from $20,762,000 to $16,922,000, and the profit margin declined in that division from $5 million to $2.9 million.Other company spending, based on all the added revenues, which would include salaries, expenses and other corporate costs increased from $27.9 million to $35.7 million. The major news was WWE confirming rumors that 2K Sports will not be producing a new video game this year. From December 31, 2019 to March 31, 2020, the WWE Network went from 996,000 U.S. subscribers to 1,082,500, and from 393,000 foreign subscribers to 412,100, meaning overall 1,389,000 to 1,494,600.

What is clear is that, perhaps with more people stuck at home, perhaps with it being two shows, perhaps with no alternatives in sports, there were more people who likely watched WrestleMania, but fewer than in many years paid for it. However the actual paid growth during that period was the same. So it appears COVID got people to sign up early but by the time Mania came long, it all pretty much evened out.

McMahon noted that when they do tapings, besides everyone getting their temperature taken and nobody led in if they are sick, they also change the ropes and the turnbuckles between every match. Levesque said they have gotten a spray from Allied Bioscience that cleans the surfaces and they constantly spray the building down, and it’s said to kill the virus on contact from 90 to 120 days. They noted that when the talent comes to Orlando, they are completely sequestered in a hotel.

- Regarding Triple H's comments on WWE After the Bell podcast, this is a major long-term storyline beginning that will most likely play out over the next year. It has been said little is known about it outside of those higher up the totem pole internally. What can be confirmed is that a major angle between Paul Levesque and Vince McMahon has been in the works preluding the pandemic.

- While notably Roman Reigns and Kyle O'Reilly are two examples of guys "sitting out" appearing on television due to being high-risk during COVID, there are few who are simply taking time off. This can be said for AJ Styles, who had been working hurt for quite some time prior to WrestleMania. While he is selling a worked injury from being "buried alive" by The Undertaker, there has been talk of a significant storyline in the pipeline for the O.C. Some are pushing for AJ to be separated from them.

- Reigns revealed that his wife Galina is pregnant with twins, which likely played a part in his decision to go home. It is eerie that the company has had a directive that Reigns’ name can’t be mentioned on television. Reigns, upset at fans who knocked him for pulling out of WrestleMania, hinted at family reasons, saying, “You don’t know what else is going on in my life. You don’t know if I have newborns, you don’t know if I have family in my household, older family. So, yeah I mean, just like the old saying go and flip that cover open and read a few pages. Get into a few chapters before you really start running your mouth.

TV Ratings:
RAW - 1.86 million viewers
NXT - 0.66 million viewers
SmackDown - 2.05 million viewers

DTP · Oct 2, 2022

WWE MONEY IN THE BANK 2020 - May 10, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"The Risk is Worth the Reward"
"Gotta Get That"

LESS THAN THREE WEEKS AWAY!

WWE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Drew McIntyre (c) vs Edge

WWE UNIVERSAL CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT FINALS
TBA vs TBA

MEN'S MONEY IN THE BANK LADDER MATCH
Samoa Joe vs Ricochet vs Bobby Lashley vs Drew Gulak vs TBA vs TBA

Aleister Black vs Seth Rollins

WOMEN'S MONEY IN THE BANK LADDER MATCH
Asuka vs Sasha Banks vs TBA vs Shayna Baszler vs Liv Morgan vs Carmella

WWE 24/7 CHAMPIONSHIP
Rob Gronkowski (c) vs Riddick Moss

RAW TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP - TRIPLE THREAT TAG TEAM MATCH
The Viking Raiders vs The Street Profits (c) vs AOP

More matches to be announced!

DTP · Oct 3, 2022

Monday Night RAW #1405 - April 27, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by

MONEY IN THE BANK: ONE WEEK FROM SUNDAY

WWE Main Event #396 – May 1, 2020
- Murphy def. Cal Bloom with Murphy's Law. (3:38)
- Kairi Sane def. Ruby Riott with the Insane Elbow. (6:25)

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A video package aired recapping the events of last week on Monday Night RAW. With the match for Money in the Bank official, Drew McIntyre would interrupt Edge at the top of the show for an interesting conversation until it went interrupted by the arrival of Zelina Vega's clients, Andrade and Angel Garza. Vexed from a previous beating from the WWE World Champion, the match went made for later that night - pitting the two Money in the Bank opponents as tag team partners! They had issues from the getgo, as "the Scottish Terminator" refused to give the WWE Hall of Famer the tag. Eventually, "the Rated R Superstar" would tag himself in and pick up the win with the Spear for Garza. The two did share a ring, when McIntyre for a split second considered the Claymore Kick...only to leave the ring to his challenger.

The opening video package aired, bringing us to the WWE Performance Center for Monday Night RAW! Less than two weeks from Money in the Bank, Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton welcomed us to the show - where in the ring, Jerry Lawler stood in full gown and crown. "The King" was ready for the King's Court, as a royal red carpet was laid out across the squared circle!

'The King's Court' with Drew McIntyre
Jerry Lawler welcomed everybody to Monday Night RAW, as he discussed how Money in the Bank was coming up in thirteen short days. With the WWE World Championship match official, things had been heating up between the champion Drew McIntyre, and his challenger Edge. "The King" recapped last week, before revealing that later tonight, Edge would be appearing on the VIP Lounge with MVP. With tensions escalating between Drew and Edge, Lawler hoped to present "the Scottish Terminator" tonight with little issue. "The King" soon introduced Drew McIntyre, who came out in casual clothes. The WWE World Champion emerged with a smile on his face, climbing into the ring and shaking hands with the WWE Hall of Famer. The two took a seat; Drew on a stool and "King" in a throne, prompting McIntyre to banter about being WWE Champion - yet Jerry was the one in a throne!

It remained playful as Jerry Lawler reminded him he was "the King" for a reason, before getting down to Money in the Bank. Talking about Drew McIntyre doing a dozen of these types of shows, he knew the WWE World Champion was living the life of Reilly since WrestleMania where he defeated Brock Lesnar. He had every reason to, but when it came to Edge - Lawler wanted to know what Drew had to be thinking. McIntyre let it be known that he was not having a care-free time as champ. He was still going as hard as he was when he was first getting started in the WWE. He was working hard at the gym each and every morning; he was making commitments, impressions each and every day; and he was kicking ass and showing the WWE Universe he deserved to be on top each and every night. Standing corrected, "King" asked about Drew's history with Edge, showing a brief clip from the March 4, 2011 edition of SmackDown - seeing a young Scotsman battle the then-World Heavyweight Champion.

The WWE World Champion chuckled, remembering the bruises left by Edge. He learned a lot, although he was learning from the best the hard way back then. He walked into WWE as a rookie with the future on a golden platter thanks to Vince McMahon, and he admitted he had an attitude problem. He was brash, loud, obnoxious, and he drove the entire locker room nuts. It was only when he was humbled and issued his release in 2014 that he truly "grow up". The truth was "the Rated R Superstar" remembered this arrogant Glaswegian punk and never forgot it - but a lot had changed in nine years. Lawler credited the WWE Champion's rise to changing perspectives, and Drew said it was a new era in WWE. He looked forward to putting a few marks on Edge; and respectfully, he planned on changing more perspectives when he took the old man to Claymore Country! Lawler thanked Drew for his time, as the champ shook his hand and raised the title high - but how would Edge respond on the VIP Lounge tonight?

Tonight - MVP hosts 'The VIP Lounge' with special guest - Edge

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Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton discussed what was scheduled to take place tonight on Monday Night RAW with graphics appearing on-screen. With Money in the Bank in under two weeks, the three female representatives would meet in a Triple Threat Preview match - who would come out on top?

Women's Money in the Bank Preview Triple Threat match - Asuka vs Liv Morgan vs Shayna Baszler
No-Disqualification match - Samoa Joe vs Rey Mysterio
Bianca Belair vs Nia Jax
Aleister Black vs Austin Theory

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Backstage at the WWE Performance Center, Bobby Lashley walked with Lana behind him. Appearing smitten with her husband, a lot had appeared to change in one week. After losing to Ricochet by count-out last week, up next a rematch was set to take place between two of the competitors in the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match - but what happened to MVP?

A video graphic aired, showing that tonight's edition of Monday Night RAW was emanating from the WWE Performance Center - the WWE's "Athletic Hub" for future WWE Superstars.

Footage from earlier today aired, showing MVP standing beside Bobby Lashley. Informing him that after meeting with executives from the USA Network, he had been able to get Lashley a rematch with Ricochet tonight, Lashley remained unimpressed. His arms folded, Bobby told him to cool off for a minute. Lashley expressed his gratitude to Montel for doing so much for he and Lana over the last few weeks, but maybe he would be better served focusing on himself for a bit. Porter couldn't understand, but in walked Lana. Snuggling up to the arm of her husband, Lana bluntly explained that they didn't think MVP was actually helping at all. She claimed they didn't need him, which caused MVP to respond angrily: he had bigger fish to fry, and he didn't need either of them! MVP wished Lashley luck tonight, soon telling Lana to take care of her man. As he left, Lana held Lashley's huge arm and explained he'd better win tonight - "or else".

1) Ricochet (with Cedric Alexander) def. Bobby Lashley (with Lana) (5:27)
- A huge upset took place last week when Ricochet defeated Bobby Lashley via count-out; drawing the ire of Bobby Lashley and particularly, his wife Lana. While MVP had gotten Lashley this rematch tonight, he and Lana had decided to go their own ways. With Cedric Alexander in his corner, Ricochet ducked Lashley's attack before the bell, when a huge powerslam saw Bobby turn the tide decisively. Ricochet was hammered with shoulder thrusts and a big clothesline, but refused to give up to the reluctance of Cedric. Lashley targeted Ricochet's shoulder by sending it into the ring post twice, but with small bursts Ricochet fired back. A backflip over Lashley's back saw him strike with two Recoils to stammer Lashley to a knee. Lashley regained in control as Ricochet went up for the stalling suplex, but he managed to reverse into a headplanting hurricanrana. Legs hooked - Ricochet got another upset!

Ricochet got out of dodge by the skin of his teeth - for a second consecutive week scoring a milestone upset against Bobby Lashley! "The Future of Flight" was joined by Cedric Alexander at ringside in joy, while Lashley scrambled and began harrassing the referee in rage. Lana climbed into the ring and began to berate her husband for losing again to a pipsqueak like Ricochet - but Lashley would stick up for himself, with a shouting match ensuing between the married couple! Ricochet was rolling headed into Money in the Bank!

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With business picking up with competitors in the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match, on the Women's side of things, Asuka prepared for the Triple Threat match still to come. "The Empress of Tomorrow" stretched in the locker room when Kairi Sane approached her teammate. The Kabuki Warriors came together with a greetings hug and loud, abrasive conversation in their native language - Asuka set to meet the two other representatives of the RAW Brand, Shayna Baszler and Liv Morgan tonight.

A video package aired, recapping last week on Friday Night SmackDown. It was 'HHH XXV', with Triple H set to stand before the WWE Universe and celebrate twenty-five years as a part of the WWE family. It did not go the way "the Game" wanted - having to stand before an empty WWE Performance Center and "celebrate". But what HHH could not have expected was the arrival of his longtime best friend Shawn Michaels! "The Heartbreak Kid" had playful banter for his D-Generation X co-founder, with appearances from Stephanie McMahon and Ric Flair - when Vince McMahon unexpectedly interrupted the scene. The Chairman had a bizarre speech in mind for his son-in-law, claiming he would make sure he never made it into the WWE Hall of Fame after all of the atrocities done throughout his illustrious career. Triple H's big night would end prematurely, as the Chairman ordered the lights to go out and the show to end on DX!

A graphic aired, revealing that Triple H would appear this coming Wednesday on WWE's The Bump - exclusive to the WWE Network!

︾︾︾

Come Down and Fight
In his dark lair backstage at the WWE Performance Center, Aleister Black sat cross-legged on the concrete floor and addressed the WWE Universe. Talking about the charades that had been carried out by the Church of Rollins in recent weeks, "the Anti-Hero" claimed to have grown tired of every bit of it. The cowardice of "the Monday Night Messiah" had to instil doubt in the minds of his Disciples, and that was why he thought better than to meet Mr. Rollins and join his puppets. Black spoke of the intense battle he had with Murphy last week, and as he continued to waste his potential, he hoped "the Best Kept Secret" would finally wake up and see what Mr. Rollins had made of him. Tonight he meets another Disciple in Austin Theory, and for all of Theory's potential, he sees that same ignorance - but wishes for Rollins to set a better example. He was sure to appear again tonight, but after last week's act of cowardice, when Black invited him to step into the ring, he hoped Seth Rollins join him man to man.

︾︾︾

2) The Viking Raiders def. RAW Tag Team Champions The Street Profits (6:22) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The three-way tag team match for the RAW Tag Team Championship had been set for Money in the Bank, with the Street Profits to defend against AOP as well as the Viking Raiders. The beef between Erik, Ivar, Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins had been cooking for weeks, stemming from the loss to the Church of Rollins at WrestleMania. The four met with an argument leading to a fistfight getting the match underway, but as the scramble saw Erik and Angelo Dawkins brawl ringside, Ivar suddenly connected with the freakish cannonball off the apron. Moments after, Montez Ford took to the skies with a beautiful leap over the top rope onto the other three men!
- Back from the commercial break, Angelo Dawkins connected with NBA Slam in the corner on Erik, when Ivar came from nowhere with a spinning wheel kick! The Viking Raiders began to maul one-half of the RAW Tag Team Champions, while Montez Ford cheered his best friend on. Separating the Street Profits, Erik connected with a knee strike for a near fall, when Ivar came with a senton. Dawkins continued to fight, and a mistimed charge by Ivar saw him collide with Erik. Ford made the tag, able to use Erik's momentum against him. A standing shooting star press saw Ivar break the count, when Dawkins took him from the ring. AOP made their arrival, distracting 'Tez as he went up top for From the Heavens - and Erik knocked him down. The Viking Experience would grant Erik and Ivar a victory against the champs!

AOP watched from the top of the rampway, as the Viking Raiders stood in dominance over the Street Profits in the ring. Erik and Ivar had a pinfall win against the RAW Tag Team Champions, but soon locked eyes with Akam and Rezar. The Church of Rollins members watched still and emotionless, as Erik and Ivar raised the titles belonging to Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins in their hands. The three-way tag team match at Money in the Bank was sure to be a wild brawl.

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Samoa Joe sat in the locker room area in the comfort of a steel chair. "The Samoan Destroyer" maintained a calm exterior, when into the room walked Zelina Vega and the WWE United States Champion Andrade. In a lavish grey suit, "El Idolo" stood over Joe with sunglasses as Zelina explained the terms and conditions of their working agreement tonight. Joe immediately came to his feet and stared Andrade down, maintaining there was no working agreement - he was being paid handsomely to do Andrade's dirty work, but that was it. Joe made it clear to Andrade through his business consultant that he was nobody's beast, and that he would do what he wanted to do to Rey Mysterio tonight. He would take Andrade's money - but tonight's No-Disqualification match was about doing to "the Legendary Luchador" what he did to Kevin Owens at WrestleMania, and that was emasculating him. Andrade grinned, wishing Joe well. He and Vega left Joe to smile himself.

︾︾︾

Meanwhile, Bianca Belair walked the hall en route to the ring in the WWE Performance Center. After impressing the WWE Universe by targeting Charlotte Flair and taking out the Iiconics last week on Monday Night RAW, tonight was the true make-or-break opportunity for "the EST of NXT". In her first official match as a RAW Superstar, Bianca had been challenged by the NXT Women's Champion to battle the undefeated Nia Jax - up next!

A clip aired from 'WWE 24 - Becky Lynch: The Man', streaming now on the WWE Network. After defeating Ronda Rousey and Charlotte Flair in a Triple Threat match to become RAW and SmackDown Women's Champion in the main event of WrestleMania, WWE Superstars such as Sami Zayn, Charlotte, Seth Rollins, Natalya and Becky's father all had fond things to say about "the Man".

At the backstage monitor in the WWE Performance Center, an unimpressed Shayna Baszler watched in annoyance at the sight of the advertisement for her adversary, the RAW Women's Champion Becky Lynch. "The Cage Fighter" burst out to backstage attendants about "the Man's" very whereabouts - questioning if "Big Time Becks" had lost her spine following WrestleMania! The MMA Fighter was psyched up for the Money in the Bank Preview Triple Threat match tonight, against Asuka and Liv Morgan.

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Inside the arena, the NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair's arrival would interrupt Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Jerry Lawler as they discussed Money in the Bank! "The Queen" walked out to the stage in a colorful floral dress, walking down the stairs and gracing the announcers with her presence. Joining commentary for the upcoming match, Charlotte declared it was time to see whether Bianca Belair had what it took to hang with the big girls on Monday Night RAW.

3) Nia Jax def. Bianca Belair (6:25)
- Since her arrival the night after WrestleMania, Bianca Belair had set her sights on Charlotte Flair, who held the NXT Women's Championship she always wanted. With Flair on commentary, "the Queen" watched to see if "the EST" had what it took against the unbeaten Nia Jax. "The Immovable Object" swung but Bianca evaded the attacks, with leg kicks targeting her surgically repaired legs. Jax cornered Bianca and clobbered her with forearms, but the speed of Bianca saw her dropkick Jax low. Where she went wrong was trying to lift the heavyweight, and Nia seized control with a backbreaker! The Samoan struck the RAW newcomer with hip attacks in the corner, when Bianca came back with a hairwhip and a spear stunning Jax! Bianca got a close call on a roll-up, when a body slam saw her do the unthinkable to Nia. The cover was made, but the Iiconics interfered! Belair took out Peyton Royce with the Glam Slam while Billie Kay suffered the K.O.D. It bought Jax vital time to deliver the Annihilator for the win!

Charlotte Flair erupted in laughter on commentary, finding pleasure in the fact that Bianca Belair had lost this match to Nia Jax in her Monday Night RAW debut! The NXT Women's Champion stood up and plugged her first successful title defense this coming Wednesday night on NXT against Candice LeRae, as Nia Jax stood tall in the ring. The Iiconics' help had paid off immenseless for "the Immovable Object", who remained undefeated since returning from knee surgery, but Billie Kay and Peyton Royce remained motionless from the feisty "EST". However just when Charlotte began to leave, Belair made a surprising comeback with a rapid succession of hairwhips cornering Jax. Nia shoved her off, when a big boot saw Bianca again take the heavyweight airborne with a shocking powerslam! Bianca twirled her hair and challenged the NXT Women's Champion, who continued to laugh at her, leaving for the backstage area.

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Giving "the Loverboy" the Broski Boot
Charly Caruso was standing by in the interview area, when her introduction went interrupted by a bouquet of flowers! Angel Garza appeared, his charming smile greeting Charly, catching her off-guard. He acknowledged her heritage as a beautiful Italian Garofano, before asking her how she was. Clearly breathtaken, she tried to remain professional in asking Angel about his recent encounter with WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre. "The Loverboy" told Charly he could talk about it, but suggested it in a more intimate setting...over dinner sometime! Her jaw dropped, when Zack Ryder burst onto the scene! "The Long Island Iced-Z" said he was sorry-not-sorry for intruding, but questioned how Charly could trust a sleazebag like Angel! It drew his ire, as Zack maintained he was a snake who would leave her high and dry before she could say "Long Island!" Garza demanded he get out, but Zack responded with a challenge tonight, where he would expose Angel in the ring. Woo Woo Woo, You Know It!

An advertisement aired, showing WWE Superstars battle with crocodiles, fire and with superhero-like abilities. In settings such as a blazing inferno, a wasteland and a tropical island, text promoted the ability to Brawl Without Limits. WWE 2K Battlegrounds is coming this Fall.

Bobby Lashley and Lana continued to be full of hate after a second consecutive loss to Ricochet earlier tonight. Lana texted on her phone and complained about the lack of competence on the part of her husband, to which Lashley shot back - furious at the gall of his wife to criticize him in such a way! The two continued their shouting match down the hall, while MVP was seen peering from around the corner. Shaking his head in disapproval, Montel Vontavious Porter had bigger fish to fry tonight - hosting 'the VIP Lounge' with Edge.

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4) Aleister Black def. Austin Theory (with Murphy) (14:17) [THROUGH TWO BREAKS]
- With the date set for Money in the Bank, Aleister Black now had to make it to May 10 for his meeting with Seth Rollins. Last week he defeated another Disciple from the Church of Rollins, in a career rival in Murphy. This week, Murphy accompanied the newest recruit Austin Theory to battle. Theory boasted a huge ego coming in, met quickly with the rapidfire succession of "the Anti-Hero's" strikes. Theory bailed to the floor, when a teased interference from Murphy allowed Theory to come from behind! Austin was able to deliver a neckbreaker, but Black fired back and whiffed him with a high kick headed into the commercial break!
- Back from the break, Aleister Black lit Austin Theory up with swift kicks in the corner, but an eye rake from the poised newcomer saw him gain control temporarily. Black fired back with a legsweep and a double foot stomp, when Murphy again distracted Black seeing him confront him at ringside. Theory sent Black into the ring post giving him control, and with the youthful recruit distracting the official, Murphy delivered a back suplex on top of the announce table's wooden cover to Black! From there, Austin was on top of Black, grounding him and repeatedly hammering away on him. Black maintained resilience following the fisherman's neckbreaker, with Theory growing increasingly frustrated at his inability to put "the Anti-Hero" away!
- The fierce battle continued with Aleister Black making his way back, sounding off on Austin Theory whilst Murphy continued to watch from ringside. "The Anti-Hero" caught Theory arguing with the referee off a near fall with double knees in the corner, when a deadlift German suplex got a close fall. Murphy had to be chomping at the bit at ringside, as Black came off the top rope with a missile dropkick. Murphy slid in, but Black stared him down. The distraction however bought Theory precious time to connect with a rolling blockbuster from the apron; but it only bought him a near fall! Theory was livid and was reasoned with by Murphy on the apron, as Black recovered. Austin charged, but Black sidestepped it and he collided head-to-head with Murphy. Theory rebounded into Black Mass, giving "the Ominous Man from Amsterdam" victory.

The Church Stands Tall
Another immaculate victory from Aleister Black saw him come from the unconscious body of Austin Theory. "The Anti-Hero" would have his hand raised before taking a seat cross-legged in the center of the ring. He saw it coming - and with that, out came Seth Rollins. "The Monday Night Messiah" clapped his hands in response to the battle Black had just put on with Theory, taking the microphone and explaining how amazing Black was. He showed exactly why he wished for him to join the Church of Rollins. He then gave props to Theory, proving that his newest recruit was choc full of potential yet needed further WWE experience - in the heat of battle with the likes of Aleister. Seth continued to talk about Black, and how the two of them may not be dissimilar - however Rollins maintained that if there was no Seth Rollins, there would be no Aleister Black. Seth claimed he was the reason Black was allowed to exist in "his" universe.

Aleister Black listened patiently from the ring, but mouthed to Seth Rollins exactly like he said earlier tonight. He wished not to wait until Money in the Bank - he wished for "the Monday Night Messiah" to accept his invitation to come down and fight in the present! Seth found the idea intriguing, and after last week he agreed with him. Such cowardice was not representative of the character he possessed as leader of the Church of Rollins. Rollins slowly removed his suit jacket and rolled up his sleeves, deciding to stroll down the rampway - but as he arrived ringside, Murphy suddenly came from behind! Black tried to fight him, when Theory struck with the ATL connecting on "the Anti-Hero!" Rollins now chose to climb inside, running his mouth beside the incapacitated Black! Murphy would be the man to help set the table - holding Black in position for one finite Stomp from "the Messiah!" The Church stood tall over Aleister Black - but what would happen when these two forces battled at Money in the Bank?

exists in his universe. Aleister again welcomes him to the ring - Seth is intrigued and tells him he's on. Begins to strut down to the ring, steps up the steps when Murphy ambushes Black. Aleister fights back, when Seth jumps in and fights Black. Black again gets the upper hand, but Theory and Murphy allow Seth to beat him down. The Stomp on the apron finishes Black.

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A video package aired, recapping last week on Monday Night RAW. Rey Mysterio stood in the ring with his son Dominik, "the Legendary Luchador" having much to say to WWE United States Champion Andrade. "El Idolo" and his business associate Zelina Vega answered, when unexpected Rey was struck from behind and taken down in a brutal assault by Samoa Joe. A Muscle Buster left Rey broken in front of his son Dominik, intimidated, as Joe was paid a huge wad of cash from Andrade to commit the deed.

Rey Mysterio spoke in the backstage area with his son Dominik. Assuring him that he knew exactly what Samoa Joe was capable of, he iterated that he'd beaten him time and time before. "The Samoan Destroyer" was no joke, but against him - he felt confident. Dominik remained reserved and concerned, but "the Legendary Luchador" maintained that this was Andrade and Zelina Vega's way of trying to break him down - but it wouldn't work. Dominik complained about not being allowed to accompany his father ringside, concerned about his father after the beating last week. Rey assured him he had this: they called him "the World's Biggest Underdog" for a reason. Rey took off for the ring, with his No-Disqualification match against Joe coming up next.

A graphic aired, revealing the updated brackets for the WWE Universal Championship Tournament. With the vacant title to be awarded to the victor on May 10 at Money in the Bank, Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Jerry Lawler discussed this week's edition of Friday Night SmackDown on FOX being set to feature the semi-finals.

WWE Universal Championship Tournament Semi-Final match - Daniel Bryan vs Sheamus
WWE Universal Championship Tournament Semi-Final match - King Corbin vs Jeff Hardy
Men's Money in the Bank Qualifying match - Over The Top Rope Challenge - Cesaro vs Shinsuke Nakamura vs Apollo Crews vs The Miz vs John Morrison vs Shorty G vs TBA vs TBA
WWE Women's Tag Team Championship - Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross (c) vs SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks

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5) Samoa Joe def. Rey Mysterio in a No-Disqualification match (10:29) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The rivalry between Andrade and Rey Mysterio continued last week, where the WWE United States Champion paid Samoa Joe off to assault "the Legendary Luchador" right in front of his own son, yet Rey's resilience knew no bounds. He asked for this No-Disqualification match to gain a measure of retribution against a former rival from last year, and Rey jumped the gun with an ambush on "the Samoan Destroyer" as he walked down to the ring! Mysterio was armed with a Singapore cane and let loose on Joe, who soon caught his foe off the apron in a powerbomb position. Rey was able to reverse into a hurricanrana into the barricade, before using the barricade as a springboard to hit a crossbody!
- Rey Mysterio charged Samoa Joe in the corner, but the Samoan telegraphed it with the Uranage! "The Samoan Destroyer" continued the viciousness he proved to Kevin Owens weeks ago at WrestleMania, with a succession of backbreakers. Using the Singapore cane in a tree of woe, Joe talked trash and set up three canes across the second rope in the corner. A powerbomb connected through them, but Rey miraculously powered out at two! Rey reversed another into a hurricanrana, and one 619 later saw Rey ready to fly - directly into the Kohita Clutch position! Rey rolled out but Joe clotheslined him over the top rope! "The Destroyer" followed with a Singapore cane, letting Rey have it with shots to the torso! Dominik came darting down to ringside, pleading with Joe to stop. He agreed, but then thought again and tossed the son of Mysterio into the ring. Rey came to his son's aid with a steel chair to the spine, but when Rey went up top, Joe took him down with the Muscle Buster for the win!

Samoa Joe came to his feet victorious. "The Samoan Destroyer" held up his end of the bargain against Rey Mysterio, when Andrade and Zelina Vega came sauntering down to the ring. Joe climbed out of the ring, meeting the WWE United States Champion. Joe departed silently while Andrade and Zelina entered the ring. With Dominik kneeling beside his beaten father, "El Idolo" cast a shadow over the both of them. He would shove Mysterio's son down before planting Rey with the Hammerlock DDT! Dominik rushed to his father's side again, while Andrade raised the title high. That's when Dominik showed no fear - shoving Andrade from behind! He yelled at the champ for his wicked ways, but Andrade chuckled before shoving him down to the canvas again! "El Idolo" had dastardly plans in mind for the untrained and defenseless Dominik, when Humberto Carrillo emerged! Andrade and Zelina ran for the hills, as Humberto checked on Dominik and Rey.

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Bianca Belair recovered in the interview area backstage, when Charly Caruso approached her. "The EST" apologized for being so blunt, but she had one challenge to make: and that was to the NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair! Bianca began to talk about Nia Jax, when for a second time tonight the Iiconics confronted her. Annoyingly, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce talked about the number Bianca supposedly did on them earlier tonight - but feigned having no after-effects from the Glam Slam or the K.O.D. They implied Belair didn't belong, especially after failing to beat "the Immovable Object". Belair smirked, telling Kay and Royce she was not about to hesitate whooping both of their butts again there and then - twirling her braid in preparation. She swung it in the Iiconics direction, but the two declared this conversation over - quickly exiting the scene! Belair smiled, telling Charly she would get her way.

Monday Night RAW tonight was sponsored by CarMax: the way it should be.

A replay aired, recapping the comments made by Drew McIntyre tonight on 'the King's Court' with Jerry "the King" Lawler. The WWE World Champion was respectful and humble in talking about his Money in the Bank opponent Edge, but made it known that he was not afraid to send "the Rated R Superstar" to 'Claymore Country' if it meant changing some more perspectives about this new era in the WWE.

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To Sideline A Buccaneer
Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Jerry Lawler discussed Drew McIntyre's appearance on 'the King's Court' earlier tonight, with "the King" saying he believed the tenacity of the WWE World Champion with the adversity of Edge. Much like in recent weeks, Riddick Moss made his way out to the announce table uninvited! "So Smooth" wore a bright and obnoxious Hawaiian shirt, as he brashly hugged his "best buddy" Byron. Riddick asked the boys if they had missed him, prompting Jerry to make jokes at the expense of Riddick Moss. Getting down to business, Moss explained he wasn't there for a chinwag with his friends but instead to congratulate Rob Gronkowski on the brilliant news from this past week! He was talking about the news broken last Tuesday by the NFL Network that Rob Gronkowski had been traded by the New England Patriots, to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers! He mocked Rob for his audacity, to go from retiring from playing football, to signing a mega-contract to become a WWE Superstar.

Riddick Moss claimed Rob Gronkowski had stolen legacies and he'd stolen dreams by becoming WWE 24/7 Champion and making his WrestleMania Moment, but now had once again had a change of heart. Maybe it was no coincidence that the moment their match is signed for Money in the Bank, and it was time for Gronk to put up or shut up against "So Smooth" Riddick Moss - that he would voice his desire to play in the NFL again, and play another season after all. Moss called Gronk selfish and claimed his entire career had spanned from "luck" over "ability". Moss maintained he would right all of the wrongs committed by Gronk, claiming he would protect the WWE 24/7 Championship from the SuperBowl Champion. At Money in the Bank, Riddick let it be known he wasn't playing to beat Gronk - or run him from the WWE. He was playing to beat Gronk, and put him on the bench. Moss left the announce position, full of himself

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6) Angel Garza def. Zack Ryder (2:25)
- Zack Ryder was able to defend Charly Caruso from the ever-persuasive ways of Monday Night's RAW's resident "Loverboy" Angel Garza earlier tonight. In jest of this, "the Long Island Iced-Z" it could be argued made a mistake in daring to expose Angel tonight. The client of Zelina Vega and confidante of WWE United States Champion Andrade showed he was in no mood for the antics of the fan favorite, who showboated following the Broski Boot! Garrza bailed from the ring but the veteran was in hot pursuit, when Ryder missed a flying forearm into the barricade. A low blow out of sihgt of the official saw Angel gain momentum, and upon tossing him back inside, Garza picked up the emphatic win with the Wingclipper.

Two weeks removed from a competitive match with WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre, Angel Garza looked to be back up to his old tricks with a pinfall victory against a Monday Night RAW mainstay in Zack Ryder. "The Loverboy" fended off the referee who tried to raise his hand, instead taking it upon himself to continue putting the boots to "the Long Island Iced-Z". The referee stepped in, bringing Garza to showboat over Ryder's body. Whether or not the snake-in-the-grass style of the Mexican had been exposed by Ryder remained unclear, as Angel left him laying.

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With her mentor and tag team partner Natalya sidelined by the Riott Squad several weeks ago, Liv Morgan warmed up alone in the hallway backstage. The constant underdog of the RAW Women's Division scored a massive victory, qualifying into the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match last week against Ruby Riott. But now, she had to prove she was capable of coming out on top against the likes of Shayna Baszler and Asuka. The Money in the Bank Preview Triple Threat match was coming up next!

A Money in the Bank Rewind aired, taking us back to WrestleMania 21: the site of the very first Money in the Bank Ladder match. It was here where Edge became the first man to win the briefcase cemented his shot at the World Championship. Nine months later at New Year's Revolution 2006, Edge would shock the world when he captured his first WWE Championship after cashing in on a vulnerable John Cena, coming minutes after a hectic Elimination Chamber battle!

7) Shayna Baszler def. Asuka & Liv Morgan in a Money in the Bank Preview Triple Threat match (9:22) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- There was one more spot to be determined in the field for the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match in thirteen days, but tonight was about proving which WWE Superstar had supremacy out of the RAW Brand representatives. Shayna Baszler and Asuka had an intense face-off before the bell, interrupted by the arrival of Liv Morgan. Morgan was here to prove she was no third wheel however, trying her hand at taking down "the Cage Fighter" just to be ran down with a waterwheel slam! Asuka saved Liv from a ground-and-pound predicament, a hip attack removing the MMA Fighter from the equation. Liv then bit the hand that fed her, getting into a striking match with "the Empress of Tomorrow", who cut her short with a reversal of an armdrag into a cross-armbreaker. Baszler came in with a Kirifuda Clutch attempted, when Morgan broke it up with a sliding dropkick!
- Asuka and Liv Morgan teamed up on Shayna Baszler with a double hip attack. They talked gossip in the middle of a match, when "the Empress of Tomorrow's" tease of a handshake saw her take Morgan into the Asuka Lock. "The Cage Fighter" rushed in with a knee lift, when Morgan reversed the Yokosuka Cutter into a roll-up for a two-count. Asuka hit a roundhouse kick on Morgan who ducked, and Baszler went down and out! Asuka and Morgan battled, with Liv catching Asuka off-guard with the ObLIVion! The cover was made - when the Riott Squad dragged her out to the floor! Ruby Riott and Sarah Logan prepared to attack Liv, when Asuka's partner Kairi Sane unexpectedly appeared with a swing of her umbrella! "The Pirate Princess" backed Riott and Logan up the aisle, while back inside the Asuka Lock went applied on Liv. She fought valiantly, when Shayna struck with a big boot to Asuka. Removing her from the ring, Shayna locked the Kirifuda Clutch on a beaten Morgan, forcing her to pass out!

Shayna Baszler showed reluctance in breaking the Kirifuda Clutch applied on Liv Morgan after the bell, refusing to break the hold! Asuka finally climbed into the ring, prompting "the Cage Fighter" to roll out of the ring casually. Baszler smirked through her mouthguard at "the Empress of Tomorrow", who scowled in Shayna's direction. With the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match in under two weeks, something had to give between the two of them, when Asuka surprisingly helped Liv to her feet. The two hugged it out to the surprise of many - but only one could win the briefcase on May 10.

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Family Business
Humberto Carrillo spoke in the locker room area with Dominik, who held the back of his head after being shoved down twice by WWE United States Champion Andrade moments ago. In walked Rey Mysterio wearing war wounds of his own after the match with Samoa Joe. Humberto and Dominik greeted "the Legendary Luchador", but Rey demanded a moment with Humberto. His son asked on his wellfare, but Rey maintained he was fine. Dominik asked if he saw what happened with "El Idolo", but Rey again demanded he leave! With Dominik's exit and the door closing, Rey confronted Humberto and asked him with kindness to take a step back. Humberto said he was helping, but Rey pointed out Dominik finding inspiration and him, and how he didn't want his son getting trapped in this business. Carrillo claimed Dominik could do what he wanted, but Rey again shut him down, asking one more time to step off. Humberto claimed he wanted Andrade too, and Rey would not be able to stop him.
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Edge had arrived at the WWE Performance Center. Thirteen days remained until his first opportunity at the WWE World Championship in over nine years at Money in the Bank, but up next he would sit in the same ring as MVP for 'the VIP Lounge'. How would "the Rated R Superstar" respond to Drew McIntyre's comments made earlier tonight?

#FightThePowersThatBe
A video package aired, recapping the unholy events that unfolded at WrestleMania. In one of the most historic events in the history of "the Grandest Stage of Them All", The Undertaker would defeat AJ Styles in a Buried Alive match. "The Phenom" finally got comeuppance on "the Phenomenal One" for all of the foul things AJ had had to say about his personal life, and with that "the Deadman" rode off into the sunset. Weeks later, the O.C. would stand on the same grounds at the compound! Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows addressed the WWE Universe in search of answers, talking about how they had been everywhere looking for their best friend. AJ Styles did very little wrong, and what happened at "the Greatest Spectacle in Sports Entertainment" was one of the most forsaken things ever recorded in WWE history! Anderson questioned how WWE could even sanction a match like the Buried Alive match - citing the health and safety risks, and the fact AJ could have died from suffocation underground!

Luke Gallows assured Karl Anderson that there was at least the documented proof that AJ Styles was able to make it away from his underground tomb unscathed, by hook or by crook, because he was "Phenomenal". But now the O.C. were not in search of answers but need of answers! With a petition in hand, Gallows and Anderson hoped to right the wrongs of WrestleMania, and do right by AJ, wherever he was hiding. Anderson revealed that with the help of the WWE Universe, they could all find justice and #FightThePowersThatBe together. Gallows dedicated their petition in memory of AJ, when Anderson reminded him AJ was alive - but this was still all for him.

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Impressing The Queen Is No Easy Feat
The NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair had a backstage attendant carry her bags as "the Queen" left the WWE Performance Center, only to be stopped by the presence of the Iiconics. Blocking her exit, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce voiced their discontent in what had happened tonight. Pleading with Charlotte for another chance to prove themselves, they said what Bianca Belair did to them was nothing. Flair demanded enough, and shooed away her attendant. Flair said she had enough on her plate, preparing for Candice LeRae on NXT this coming Wednesday night - and much like Candice, she didn't view Bianca as being worthy to be in "the Queen's" presence. Kay and Royce were prepared for rejection, when Charlotte said why not? Flair gave the two one more chance to prove themselves next week in a Handicap match against "the EST!" The Iiconics clamored with joy, but Flair ordered they shut up and let her leave in peace.

Next week - Bianca Belair vs The Iiconics

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'The VIP Lounge' with Edge
MVP had taken over the ring as we returned to the WWE Performance Center. Dressed to the nines in a pinstripe suit, the black carpet was laid out as were two black leather couches and a small television monitor. He talked about how it had been a while since 'the VIP Lounge' had taken place on Monday Night RAW. Discussing the match at Money in the Bank, Montel Vontavious Porter cut straight to the chase in inviting out Edge. In black jeans and a leather jacket, the WWE Hall of Famer appeared tense as he stepped foot in the same ring as MVP, who took a step back. MVP took the time to address the last time he shared a ring with "the Rated R Superstar". Edge not only wiped him out in a brutal assault, but he sent him on a one-way trip to the hospital with brain contusions after a Conchairto! Thankfully he could cover his own hospital expenses, as well off as he was. MVP offered to let bygones be bygones, but Edge simply stared at his offer of a handshake.

Instead taking a seat on the leather couch, Edge went as far as to prop his foot up! MVP was amazed at the gall of his guest, taking a seat on his own couch. He pointed out how much the couch cost and hoped his shoes were clean, before meekly understanding exactly why Edge did what he did over a month ago. With his wife Beth Phoenix injured by Randy Orton, MVP was professional enough to hope they move past that. "The Rated R Superstar" again removed expressionless, a microphone in hand. He told MVP bluntly that he came here under the impression they were going to discuss Drew McIntyre and the WWE World Championship. Montel Vontavious Porter understood clearly, as Edge spoke about how long it had been since he last held a World title - years. In 2011 when he was forced off to the sidelines, he was World Heavyweight Champion, and what scarred him to this day, nine years on was the fact that when he retired, he was forced to vacate the gold he had worked so hard to accomplish.

MVP nodded in acceptance, but noted how many World Championships "the Rated R Superstar" had accomplished throughout his illustrious career. If you named it, Edge had done it - which begged the question why he wanted to go after Drew McIntyre and the WWE World Championship. Edge stared at him blankly, questioning if he had not already made it known. He was doing it to show the WWE Universe that he still had what it took to hang with the WWE Superstars of today. He was doing it because there was still a fire that raged deep within him after being forced to waste a decade of his life away from what he loved doing more than anything - and competing. And he was doing it, because no matter how much "the Scottish Terminator" wished to say he was a matured man, Edge saw through him. He was a matured man too, and Edge believed if the WWE Universe felt Drew deserved the title - then by that logic, so did he.

Montel Vontavious Porter questioned the assessment that McIntyre deserved it - but did Edge? MVP claimed he never held a World Championship despite what the WWE Universe wanted. Was it greed that drove a multiple-time champion like Edge to become WWE World Champion? Edge came to his feet, prompting MVP to jump out of his couch and immediately bound over it in defense! The host of 'the VIP Lounge' wanted no issues with Edge after their last altercation, when Edge finally said he was done with these charades. If Drew McIntyre wanted to call him old and haggard, so be it, but when he walked into Money in the Bank and stared up at the lights at the end of that night, the Scotsman would surely realized that he'd got his ass beaten by that same old man! MVP tried to calm Edge, when Drew McIntyre made his way out to the ring! The WWE World Champion appeared ready to fight, removing his shirt and asking "the Rated R Superstar" if he wanted to go.

Edge was psyched up and ready to go himself, shoving over the leather couches inside the ring and welcoming Drew McIntyre to step into the ring. Money in the Bank appeared to be coming thirteen days early, as the WWE World Champion stepped into the ring and braced for a fight with "the Rated R Superstar". As the combatants butted heads, MVP snuck back into the ring and swung for Edge with his back turned. Edge moved at the last second and McIntyre received a right hand square in the face! Drew glared a hole through Montel Vontavious Porter with a smirk, when Edge delivered the Spear to MVP as revenge. McIntyre then got into a hockey-fight with "the Rated R Superstar", with neither man letting up! Edge tackled the champ down to the canvas, but Drew rolled it over. Suddenly, three WWE Producers hit the ring and were able to restrain the two rivals. May 10 was thirteen days away - but as Edge and Drew stared each other down, it was clear neither man were willing to wait for Money in the Bank!

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Order · Oct 3, 2022

Right, this was always a project on WC I wanted to check out but never found the time so here goes my comments on your latest RAW. I'm going to try and ignore that I hated this era with no fans and give you some good feedback

Things I liked

-Bobby Lashley/Lana/MVP triangle - Bobby Lashley and Lana was always a diabolical angle and you're doing the right thing in slowly breaking them up. Lashley ending up with MVP is the way to go even if it is similar to real life. Sometimes there is no problem with that. It is also nice to see Ricochet being built up as he has been so underutilised in the WWE so far, mainly down to Vince of course.

-The Church of Rollins - This is a faction I love so much. Rollins, AOP, Austin Theory and Murphy is a great group with so many elements to it. I hope they stay together for some time and run riot over the RAW roster. Black in a high-profile rivalry with Seth is fun and I look forward to seeing how this one develops over time. I enjoyed what you did on this show.

-Money in the Bank ladder match hype - I think you got this really down, especially with the women's triple threat and the hype throughout the evening. The Triple Threat match was fun with Logan and Riott being stopped by Sane only for Shayna to lock in the submission for the win. Glad that Baszler seems to be being pushed hard here and I wouldn't mind her winning the briefcase, to be honest. Would make sense after losing at Mania.

-Drew McIntyre and Edge in talk show segments - I though having the King's Court and the VIP Lounge bookending the show was a good booking move and it all built to the crescendo at the end of the show. I'm assuming Edge is a heel or at least a tweener here as he certainly came off like it. I think that's fine with no fans anyway. I hope McIntyre retains and Edge gets even more brutal and they have one more match. Both characters came off well and I thought this was effective stuff.

-Little snippets - I love the little snippets you include before or after ad breaks like the MITB flashback, recaps of what happened last week and the Becky Lynch 24 documentary. I haven't seen it done before and it is simple but really effective. Might have to use it myself.

Things to improve on

-Spoiler tags for match results - This is a really simple and quick alteration you could make but I think it is always better if the result isn't given away in the headline. I'd have Bianca Belair vs. Nia Jax and then the match result under the text at the very least. Personally, a spoiler tag is even better so people can get more invested in your match writing. This is even more crucial for pay-per-views.

-Spelling - Another easy one, worth downloading Grammarly or putting it through a Word doc for spelling and grammar as there were a few typos and things that were wrong. The Kohita Clutch is the Coquina Clutch so always worth checking pro wrestling wiki for wrestlers and their moves. Not major but it would tighten it up and make it even nicer to read.

Overall, I really enjoyed this show and think the booking is really strong. Money in the Bank looks like a strong card and although I hated this era, you have certainly entertained me immediately.

CakeWalker · Oct 3, 2022

Elimination Chamber Review:

- very hard for me to ever enjoy Cardona losing in any circumstance - although I can understand why the Vikings Raiders get a win. Still a massive mark for the Death Match King so hopefully Matt will get a push at some point.

- there is a benefit of giving Gulak a solid performance, despite suffering a loss to Danielson. Never used right I feel - and even giving him a gimmick like Solider Ant would see his potential boom. Perhaps Gulak will actually have a push in this project (fingers crossed).

- Andrade is a fucking boss! Keep pushing this guy to the fucking moon =]

- a thriving tag team division, in terms of potential, although I will admit that I always felt Johnny Dishes would have been better with an opponent with a similar stye in the ring. Still a decent match.

- Black vs. Styles on paper is such a great contest - so absolutely nothing to complain out in this one.

- I've always struggled with the Street Profits - but a lot of people love them.

- Zayn, Nakamura and Cesaro are a great trio - all three of them deserving of winning the 'BIG ONE' and in this timeline I hope this possible.

- Great main-event. Not a Shayna fan - but a Shayna advocate in terms of good booking.

OVERALL - I really enjoyed this first show and curios to see in what direction this project is going to go.

[going to do my best to catch up - so apologies until I catch up]

Stojy · Oct 4, 2022

As others have said, I thought the booking of Drew and Edge was very good tonight. Easily the best so far, and considering we're only two weeks away from MITB, it makes sense for these guys to be getting more and more heated. Considering they've come to blows now, I'm definitely intrigued to see how you top this next week.

I liked the change up with Lana having apparently gotten into Lashley's ear and caused MVP to be on the outside. Something to keep things fresh as this long running angle progresses, and obviously the failure again will allow MVP to come back into the picture.

Black going over Theory makes sense as does the strength in numbers with Rollins and his crew standing strong.

I have enjoyed the booking to Belair/Flair as well. Honestly think Belair losing her first match is a very risk decision, even with all the circumstances involved. I won't be against it though if she looks strong as by winning the Handicap match next week. I think that's where this one has to go.

Have enjoyed Joe coming in at the behest of Andrade to destroy Rey.

Not going to echo my thoughts on the 24/7 stuff although I do have hopes it's coming to a close. I still feel like the MITB match hypes are very generic and not all that interesting, however the tension between Asuka and Baszler in the aftermath here was the closest we've had to interesting. I'm really hoping you find a way to further build on that on the go home show.

Garza getting back on the winners list is logical booking, although the fan boy in me was hoping Ryder won and rode off to the sunset with Caruso lol.

Finally, much like on SD where you pulled the trigger with the McMahon/Triple H stuff, the OC promo was the highlight of the night for me. Makes things VERY interesting, and I like that it feels we're starting to get some more creative angles going in here.

Show felt like a really strong one, good job.

DTP · Oct 5, 2022

NXT #402 - April 29, 2020
Full Sail University - Orlando, Florida

NXT UK: Hidden Gems #91 - April 30, 2020
- British Bulldog def. Owen Hart in the Finals of the WWE European Championship Tournament to be crowned champion with a reversal from the victory roll. (18:24) [WWE MONDAY NIGHT RAW - MAR 3, 1997]
- WALTER def. Jack Starz with the Powerbomb. (2:30) [NXT UK #27 - JAN 30, 2019]
- Shayna Baszler (c) def. Isla Dawn to retain the NXT Women's Championship with the Kirifuda Clutch. (8:39) [NXT UK: DOWNLOAD FESTIVAL 2019 - DAY 2 - JUN 15, 2019]
- Matt Riddle and The Street Profits def. Joseph Conners and The Grizzled Young Veterans with the Bro Derek by Riddle on Conners. (13:39) [NXT UK TAPING - JUL 19, 2019]

☗☗☗

"The Black and Gold Brand" was ready to go, opening directly to the Full Sail University where Tom Phillips welcomed us to NXT! Joined by Mauro Ranallo and the returning Beth Phoenix, both working remotely, the show was getting underway with the first of two NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament matches! The Make-A-Wish Foundation logo was shown on the video screen - partnered with the WWE for a great cause.

As Oney Lorcan made his entrance accompanied by cornerman and tag team partner Danny Burch, a picture-in-picture promo aired from earlier today, with some comments from the duo. With regards to El Hijo Del Fantasma, Oney remained focused and maintained while he respected everything his opponent had done, this was his tournament and he would not be denied. Burch psyched his buddy up, as Lorcan declared he was playing for keeps and would get this tournament off the right way - and he would become NXT Interim Cruiserweight Champion.

1) El Hijo Del Fantasma (2pts - 1-0) def. Oney Lorcan (0pts - 0-1) (with Danny Burch) in an A-Block match of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament (11:21) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- With The Brian Kendrick currently leading the A-Block with last week's block-opening win against Isaiah "Swerve" Scott, this match marked the highly anticipated NXT debut of lucha-libre legend, El Hijo Del Fantasma. Danny Burch was the towelman supporting Oney Lorcan as he shook hands with the newcomer upon the belling sounding. In a clash of styles, Lorcan struck hard and heavy for Fantasma to come back with a rapid succession of strikes himself! Sending Oney to the floor, Fantasma took a dive with a senton atomico over the top rope crashing to the floor.
- The innovative action resumed returning from the commercial break, with El Hijo Del Fantasma's speed and athleticism shining until being stopped short by a flush European uppercut off the ropes! Danny Burch applauded his teammate, as Oney Lorcan began to ground the well-travelled luchador with a side headlock maintained. Fantasma fought back and responded with a Romero Special variation, rocking Lorcan back and forth in the stretch-hold! Fantasma delivered a hurricanrana from the top rope, when Oney broke out of a death valley driver and planted Fantasma with the Half-and-Half Suplex for a close near fall! Lorcan was devastated, but as he got Fantasma back up, he led himself straight into the Thrill of the Hunt - giving Fantasma his first win in both NXT, as well as the A-Block!

In his first outing as an official member of "the Black and Gold Brand", the purple-and-white clad El Hijo Del Fantasma had his hand raised victorious - two-points up in the A-Block of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament! Fantasma was one-down and two-to-go, as Danny Burch checked on Oney Lorcan. Beaten, Lorcan recovered when approached by Fantasma. With reluctance, Lorcan and Burch exchanged looks - but Oney would show respect to the newcomer and raise his hand.

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A series of graphics aired, as Tom Phillips, Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix narrated what was set to take place tonight on NXT - headlined by Charlotte Flair making her first defense of the NXT Women's Championship against the number one contender, Candice LeRae! Plus, Dominik Dijakovic had his chance to put food on his family's table - hoping to Feast His Eyes on the NXT North American Championship held by Damian Priest.

NXT Women's Championship - Charlotte Flair (c) vs Candice LeRae
NXT North American Championship - Damian Priest (c) vs Dominik Dijakovic
Karrion Kross makes his in-ring NXT debut.
We hear from the NXT Champion Adam Cole.
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - B-Block - Jake Atlas vs Cameron Grimes

A replay aired from last week, showing Charlotte Flair host 'A Flair for the Gold' for the first time in twenty-seven years. After overcoming five NXT Superstars in a Number One Contender's Ladder match three weeks ago, and after her husband Johnny Gargano was banished from "the Black and Gold Brand" by ex-best friend Tommaso Ciampa, Candice LeRae was a different woman - poised to not only deflect insulting comments made by "the Queen", but to beat her and take the NXT Women's Championship tonight.

Charlotte Flair had arrived at the Full Sail University, standing beside McKenzie Mitchell with the NXT Women's Championship over her shoulder. McKenzie took the time to ask "the Queen" how she felt about the challenge against Candice LeRae later tonight. Charlotte advised her not to get it twisted: while Candice had unquestionably earned her spot in NXT for the years toiled away in every armory, community center and bingo hall across America, herself and Candice were not, nor ever would be in the same league. The difference was while LeRae had a heart of gold and boasted a goody two-shoes personality, Charlotte possessed the pedigree and attitude befitting a real World Champion. Flair was speaking more about her heritage too, and tonight as her husband was forced to watch from the unemployment line, on the Gargano household's couch and watch his wife fail - "the Queen" would make a trivia note of Candice LeRae as the nobody she beat to retain the NXT Women's Championship on Wednesday, April 29, 2020.

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The NXT North American Champion Damian Priest was...getting prepared for his title defense like only "the Archer of Infamy" knew how. Butting heads playfully with a beautiful, small, dark-haired girl clad in tattoos, the champ was chilling on the couch in his locker room ahead of action tonight against Dominik Dijakovic.

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2) Karrion Kross (with Scarlett) def. Leon Ruff (1:53)
- In the second of three in-ring debuts tonight on NXT, Karrion Kross and Scarlett made their presence felt like only they could. In black-and-white, the power couple walked with presence as "the Herald of Doomsday" visibly struck fear into the heart of his opponent tonight - poor Leon Ruff. As the bell sounded, Kross's partner-in-crime set an hourglass on top of the ring steps - and just like that, her man struck Ruff by force in the corner. Aggressively, Kross struck with an exploder suplex before locking in a rolling kneebar on the defenseless Ruff! But Kross broke the hold, clearly playing with his food. In his NXT debut, Kross would claim dominant victory with the Doomsday Saito suplex for the three count.

Statement Made
The hourglass ran out moments later, as Karrion Kross stalked over the fallen body of Leon Ruff. Scarlett climbed into the ring and stood beside her man, as black-and-white flooded over Full Sail University once again. Scarlett took to the microphone after the match and claimed that much like Tommaso Ciampa, Leon Ruff had fallen and prayed. "The Herald of Doomsday" stood tall, the microphone passed to him by his mistress. Karrion began to talk about the world wondering why he chose to take out Tommaso two weeks ago - as if it wasn't obvious. There was nobody - he repeated, nobody - who could do what he was going to do. Kross vowed that he would take "the Black and Gold Brand" and turn it black and white, because NXT had never met a face like his. In the darkness, Kross and Scarlett had been left open however - and from the darkness behind them came Tommaso Ciampa! Rushing the ring, "the Blackheart" clobbered Kross with lefts and rights before being shoved off.

Tommaso Ciampa would not let up, following a second time with more right hands and a high knee rocked Karrion Kross! Scarlett sensed her man was in danger and momentarily intercepted by approaching "the Blackheart". Ciampa looked her up and down, but before finding time to act, Kross struck with another Doomsday Saito suplex! Ciampa was dazed, when a big boot took him out to the floor. A forearm smash to the back saw Ciampa faceplant the ringside mats, when Kross locked in the Kross Jacket - a bar-arm sleeper forcing Ciampa out like a light. Two referees headed down to ringside to try and split up the fight, but Kross and Scarlett would leave on their own terms. For a second consecutive altercation, Ciampa had been left laying - paying the price to Kross and Scarlett, in the fallout of One Final Beat!

A replay aired recapping what happened before the break. Karrion Kross impressed the NXT Universe in his in-ring debut on "the Black and Gold Brand" by decimating Leon Ruff, but in the fallout, Kross and Scarlett planned to declare their intentions when ambushed by Tommaso Ciampa. "The Blackheart" wanted revenge, but a distraction from Scarlett saw "the Herald of Doomsday" dominate Ciampa in yet another altercation - as the Kross Jacket left Ciampa motionless on the ringside floor during the commercial break.

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Malcolm Bivens smirked knowingly, as Rinku and Saurav towered over his shoulders. The camera soon panned out to reveal Ariya Daivari observing a booklet of documentation. Ecstatic, he exclaimed he knew it was just a matter of time for someone to see his brilliance! Bivens was perplexed, as Daivari's excitement led him to interpret the paperwork as reason for him to become represented by Bivens Enterprise. Malcolm explained it was a petition forcing Matt Riddle to either defend the NXT Tag Team Championships or to vacate them, but Daivari supposedly saw through it. He signed the petition and asked what the next step was for their relationship, when Malcolm explained he had his number and would be in touch. As the 205 Live Original took off pleased, Bivens observed the petition and questioned his giants on how dumb Daivari truly was!

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3) Shotzi def. Aliyah (with Chelsea Green and Robert Stone) (5:42)
- Robert Stone had some work to do with members of his Brand - as evident by Chelsea Green and Aliyah's constant bickering of late. They had come to his aid last week from the clutches of Rhea Ripley, but tonight Aliyah had to concern herself with "the Batallion". Shotzi had eyes on Green, who claimed two victories against her from in recent weeks. The tank-driver showed off her unique energy early on, when a distraction from Green allowed Aliyah to take advantage with a somersault neckbreaker! Aliyah grounded Shotzi, who rolled out and received a swift bicycle kick from Green moments later. Aliyah worked to keep Shotzi under control but she would make a comeback and deliver a cannonball in the corner! Stone distracted the referee enabling Green to secure Shotzi's arms behind her back - but Aliyah struck with a dropkick knocking Chelsea from the apron. Shotzi would claim the win with the Tiger suplex!

Shotzi jumped for joy in victory, when Chelsea Green swiftly came from behind and began to put the boots to her! Robert Stone was furious and demanded Green give "the Batallion" the comeuppance he felt she deserved, and she would comply with a running stomp to drive Shotzi face-first into the canvas! But all of a sudden, Aliyah confronted her so-called factionmate. Stone again got between his girls, who went face-to-face and argued over the miscommunication that cost Aliyah the match. Rhea Ripley chose the perfect time to make her way down to the ring, stomping to ringside and immediately coming after Robert Stone! The former NXT Women's Champion grabbed Stone by the tie when Aliyah and Green went after her. Rhea barely budged, and in appearing like a deer in headlights, Green would shove Aliyah into Ripley for the Riptide! As Chelsea and Stone fled up the aisle, Ripley continued to glare their way.

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Dominik Dijakovic threw strike after strike in the direction of a sandbag in his locker room, backstage at Full Sail University. The challenger in tonight's NXT North American Championship match was mentally prepared, hopeful of walking away as the new champ against Damian Priest. After the constant putdowns by "the Archer of Infamy", Dijakovic wanted to not only put food on his family's table but to get his first taste of NXT gold.

A vignette aired showing a brunette walking the hallways of the WWE Performance Center. Ever-stylish and ever-knowledgeable - she had been a part of the NXT locker room for quite some time. Observing NXT Superstars preparing in passing, in the gym, in the rings and in the locker rooms, her voice narrated that she had unlocked parts of her mind that average humans could never, with the poise to create the perfect equation that would lead to her success. It was just a matter of time until she would show NXT what a TakeOver truly looked like - she was "the Virtuosa" Deonna Purrazzo: coming soon to NXT.

✕✕✕

An Insincere Apology
Returning to the NXT Arena in Full Sail University, Dakota Kai sat in a steel chair in the center of the ring. Her leg braced and extended straight, Raquel González stood behind her holdinga set of crutches as the Kiwi sat in great discomfort. Sporting a different, minimalistic look compared to what the NXT Universe had come to expect, Dakota explained last week she tasted a true sense of defeat. As she laid immobilized in the center of the ring - a pop in her quadriceps preventing her from reaching her feet - she came to reminisce about the history of Team kick. Dakota confessed to thinking about herself and Tegan Nox's history a lot: a story of a team of go-getters out on a whim to be the perfect foil for the greatest foes on the NXT Brand. Kai questioned the sensation of regret she felt, acknowledging the countless miles spent on the road together, and around-the-clock late-night sessions spent in the WWE Performance Center together.

And now, with a second major injury causing a huge setback to her career, Dakota Kai claimed to have reason to regret everything she had done to Tegan Nox in the past six months. She talked about jealousy and stubbornness tarnishing a great friendship, but pondered whether after all was done - was it too late to regain what was lost? Was Team Kick done for good? Dakota grew emotional in speaking about what was ahead: re-learning how to walk again; retracing her steps and starting a legacy once over...but was that truly worth it? Raquel González pouted nearby as Kai wished for Tegan to make her out to the ring. Tegan Nox responded, though with hesitance, climbing into the ring but keeping her distance from the imposing González. Kai understood fully - she knew that there was a chance Nox would not accept her apology. With the amount of torment she and Raquel had put her through, she had no reason to take anything from her - but with that said, Dakota wanted to tell her friend she was sorry!

"The Girl With the Shiniest Wizard's" emotion remained unchanged as Dakota Kai sobbed about never wanting Team Kick to erode and fall a part like it had. She confessed to growing greedy and wanting all of the fame, but most of all for screwing Tegan Nox time and time again. Nox rolled her eyes and prepared to leave when Dakota grabbed her palm and looked her in the eyes, admitting fault once more - for everything. Nox remained hesitant, but accepted it. Kai was in disbelief upon hearing it, questioning if there was hope yet for the two of them to mend fences and start over. Nox admitted there was, and with that Kai used momentum from Nox's hand-holding to pull herself into her former friend's arms. A hug shared between the two, Dakota remained in shock that Tegan was willing to make up for lost time...and sorry that she could ever be so naïve! All of a sudden, Tegan Nox was struck with a clothesline from Raquel, with Kai revealing she could walk all along!

Dakota Kai grabbed her crutches from Raquel González before swinging across the spine of Tegan Nox repeatedly! The Kiwi laughed hysterically, before removing her knee brace and slinging that into the torso and ribcage of "the Girl with the Shiniest Wizard!" Raquel prepared to connect with the One-Arm Powerbomb, but Kai refused to allow it, instead demanding she drop her. Taking the steel chair, Dakota snatched it from her reluctant bodyguard before wrapping it around the similarly-braced leg of Nox. As she ordered Raquel to hold her in position, Kai climbed to the second rope - when Mercedes Martinez thankfully hit the ring! "The Latina Sensation" scared Kai from the ring, but locked eyes with the unmoved Gonzalez. The two giantesses glared one another down, when Kai ordered her bodyguard to begrudgingly leave the ring. Despite the best efforts of Dakota, this match looked to be a happening - but when?

✕✕✕

On a splitscreen, Dominik Dijakovic was mentally in the zone. En route for the ring for his opportunity at the NXT North American Championship, on the other half of the screen, Damian Priest had to forcefully remove himself from a liplock courtesy of the tiny alternative chick from earlier. Up next, "the Archer of Infamy" would defend his gold against the laser-focused Dijakovic!

An advertisement aired promoting this coming week's edition of Friday Night SmackDown on FOX. With Money in the Bank less than two weeks away, the two semi-final matches of the WWE Universal Championship Tournament would be determined when Jeff Hardy met King Corbin, and Daniel Bryan took on Sheamus! Who would go on to May 10 to challenge for the WWE Universal Championship?

Candice LeRae had been in a foul mood since April 1, 2020 when her husband Johnny Gargano was banished from the NXT locker room by Tommaso Ciampa, but chose to respond to questions from McKenzie Mitchell. Moments away from her biggest opportunity to date in a shot at the NXT Women's Championship, Candice explained she had heard quite about enough out of Charlotte Flair, and tonight she was planning to give it everything she had. She wasn't simply doing this for "Johnny Wrestling" - she was doing this for herself. For eighteen years she had busted her butt for a chance like this, and tonight she refused to be denied! Candice claimed to win the gold to spite "the Queen" tonight, and shut her mouth once and for all.

✕✕✕

4) Damian Priest (c) def. Dominik Dijakovic to retain the NXT North American Championship (9:19) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Since capturing the NXT North American Championship four weeks ago, Damian Priest had been living the high life with as many late nights as he could find. All the while, Dominik Dijakovic continued to stew in rage, feeling short-changed out of winning gold. Dijakovic showed how focused he was when he hit a dive over the top rope onto "the Archer of Infamy" during his entrance, clearly gaining a killer instinct as Dijakovic would deliver a Chokeslam before the bell even sounded - but the referee would not allow him to make the cover, as the match went to a commercial break!
- Back from the break, Dominik Dijakovic remained firmly in control with Damian Priest bailing out to ringside - just for Dijakovic to deliver an astonishing Asai moonsault! The agility of the 6'7 challenger remained unfounded, but Dijakovic's hopes of hitting Feast Your Eyes went avoided into a blatant eye rake by the NXT North American Champion! A suplex on the floor allowed Priest to gain an advantage, as he began to pummel Dominik and underestimate him. Rubbing his boot in his face, Dijakovic fired back with Feast Your Eyes out of nowhere - but Priest would get his foot on the bottom rope!
- Damian Priest maintained a nerve grip returning from the commercial break, when Dominik Dijakovic would fire back with heavy blows - and a misstep would see "the Archer of Infamy" sent hurdling over the top rope to the floor! As Dijakovic remained restrained by the referee, Priest introduced his trusty nightstick - as well as the NXT North American Championship! The action resumed, when Dijakovic would sent Priest into the referee! With the official down, Priest grabbed the title, but Dijakovic used a nightstick to the ribcage! Dominik covered but the referee was down. As he went to check on the official, Priest capitalized - with Reckoning delivered on top of the title gold!

"The Archer of Infamy" was slipping away with the NXT North American Championship, and slid out of the ring with one hand on his title, and one hand on the nightstick that went used against him! Dominik Dijakovic had been accosted the gold that had alluded him for quite some time, and was beside himself while Damian Priest raised both high in the air - having outsmarted Dijakovic! It was sure to be one hell of a celebration party for the champ tonight!

✕✕✕

Cezar Bononi and Arturo Ruas spoke in the backstage locker room, when Malcolm Bivens interrupted them with his petition in hand. Speaking about Matt Riddle and Pete Dunne's inability to defend the NXT Tag Team Championships, Cezar and Arturo noted that "the Bruiserweight" was unable to even show up - he was stuck in England! Bivens explained "the King of Bros" needed to either find a way to defend the titles or vacate them, when Ruas explained that wasn't fair! Bononi agreed, when in stomped Rinku and Saurav! The Indians terrified the shorter Ruas, and even the tall Cezar. Without another word, Bivens issued them the petition and the two felt compelled to sign their names on the dotted line.

A replay aired, reviewing what happened earlier tonight as Dakota Kai hatched a plot to set up Tegan Nox, that paid off immensely. The supposedly incapacitated 'Kota fooled Nox as well as the NXT Universe into thinking she was hurt, when it was revealed to be a ploy to try and sideline "the Girl with the Shiniest Wizard". Thankfully, it would be up to Mercedes Martinez to prevent Nox being Pillmanized.

Backstage, Raquel González pouted as Dakota Kai remained furious at Mercedes Martinez's interruption. Demanding more from her muscle, Kai claimed they had Tegan Nox dead to rights if it wasn't for "the Latina Sensation". Kai said Raquel needed to act and fast - ordering her to go to NXT General Manager William Regal and have a match signed for next week - herself against Mercedes! González gave a cold stare back, eventually nodding to her protectee.

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There Can Only Be One
Following the six-man tag team chaos last week, the Undisputed Era graced the Full Sail University with their presence with cocky swaggers all round, en route to the ring. NXT Champion Adam Cole posed with Roderick Strong and Bobby Fish, with Kyle O'Reilly certain to be watching somewhere. With a microphone in hand, Adam wanted to shoot the breeze about how everybody wanted their big moment. Matt Riddle, NXT Tag Team Champion wanted to shoot his shot and make another run at the gold in his hands. Finn Bálor also wanted to claim "the Black and Gold Brand" as his once again, after failing miserably to make it on Monday Night RAW or Friday Night SmackDown. And then there was Velveteen Dream - the boy who had so much further to go before he could even dream of holding the NXT Championship in his filthy hands. Cole found it all so flattering, but understood that where championship titles were concerned - men gravitated towards them like magnets.

The Undisputed Era nodded as Adam Cole bragged about Matt Riddle, Finn Bálor and Velveteen Dream doing their best to make it seem like they were earning of opportunity to face the NXT Champion with the gold on the line, but they hadn't done enough. Cole listed the men he'd beaten in his 330+ day reign as champ - Johnny Gargano, Pete Dunne, Tommaso Ciampa, and even Daniel Bryan! Cole claimed he would go down in history as the greatest NXT Champion, who had already beaten Finn and Matt in the past! Cole congratulated them on last week's win, beating Bobby Fish when he was less than 100%; and when Roderick Strong was battling a cold; and with Kyle O'Reilly shooting Hollywood movies. The Undisputed Era still ran NXT! Cole told the three they had one more hurdle to jump - a Number One Contender's match. Bálor, Riddle and Dream would need to decide amongst themselves who was willing to lose to Adam Cole baybay, in a Triple Threat match next week! Cole declared that was Undisputed.

✕✕✕

Following the miscommunication earlier tonight between Chelsea Green and Aliyah, Robert Stone had the unenviable task of hoping to get between the two and de-escalate issues in the Robert Stone Brand! Stone pleaded with both, as Aliyah blamed Green for getting in her way during the match with Shotzi tonight. Chelsea claimed Aliyah wasn't as good as her - and the fact she lost to Shotzi tonight said it all. Stone once again began hollering, hopeful of ending the hostilities by pointing out Rhea Ripley being out for blood! Stone claimed the woman was a menace, and all he had tried to do was help her by offering her a space in the Robert Stone Brand. Green and Aliyah were less than thrilled about not being consulted about that decision, both taking a leave at the expense of Robert!

An advertisement aired promoting WWE's partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Narrated by John Cena, after 40 years of wishes being granted to over 500,000 children fighting critical illness, he implored the WWE Universe to join them on World Wish Day 2020.

Set for NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament action in the B-Block, Jake Atlas made an energetic entrance to the NXT Arena. A replay showed the comments made by Atlas last week, coming out as NXT's first openly homosexual Superstar in history. Cameron Grimes made his swagger out to the aisle shortly after, full of himself with a microphone in hand! "The Carolina Caveman" claimed nobody cared about Jake or wanted to see him. Grimes recommended Jake quit while he was ahead, because Cameron Grimes was about to go all the way to the top and do a clean sweep on his way to the gold! If anything, it had to have put determination into the mind of the newcomer.

5) Cameron Grimes (2pts - 1-0) def. Jake Atlas (0pts - 0-1) in a B-Block match of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament (5:48)
- The cocky antics of Cameron Grimes had lit a fire in Jake Atlas, out to impress in his first match in the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament. Impressing early following mat-based wrestling, Atlas surprised him with dropkicks sending Grimes to the floor. Atlas prepared to fly but "the Carolina Caveman" wisely evaded the attempt! Atlas came after him, only to go sent into the steel steps. Grimes went on the attack from there, a superkick stunning Atlas. He remained vigilant from a kneebar, when Atlas fought back with an enzuigiri! Responding to disrespect, Atlas attempted the LGB-DDT but Grimes was able to roll to the apron. Back in the fight, Grimes' Cave In was side-stepped, and a bridging German suplex gave Atlas a near fall. After an exchange of roll-up attempts, Grimes caught Atlas with the Oklahoma Roll - his hand gripping the bottom rope, allowing him to cheat his way to victory!

Cameron Grimes got out of the ring in a hurry, satisfied with his work complete in his first of three matches in the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament. Having dashed the dreams of the starry-eyed newcomer Jake Atlas, "the Carolina Caveman" rubbed the defeat in from the aisle. While Atlas was one down, he was all but finished in the B-Block of the tournament.

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Two WWE Performance Center recruits sat in the dressing room, shaking their heads in disapproval at Malcolm Bivens, Rinku and Saurav speaking with other recruits elsewhere regarding their petition. Moments later Bivens and his two massive associates approached the two, asking for a moment of their time in signing the petition and forcing Matt Riddle to defend the NXT Tag Team Championships or vacate them. Both sizable men in their own right, one of the two men questioned what might happen if they refused! Rinku and Saurav squared up to him and his buddy, as Bivens threatened having Bivens Enterprise bury them in the ground. The two believed that to be a challenge and claimed they would take their chances! Rinku and Saurav screamed in the Americans' faces in Indian - as Malcolm burst out in rage: they wouldn't know what hit them! The two upstarts welcomed the challenge and ordered them to the ring, vowing to put Rinku and Saurav in their place. Bivens burst out questioning who the men even were!

McKenzie Mitchell was in the interview area, standing by with Bronson Reed. She began to ask "Aus-Zilla" about his intentions with Dexter Lumis, when up walked Shane Thorne and Brendan Vink. Two men from Bronsons' past, back in his days on the Australian circuit, Thorne and Vink wished to reason with Reed that they needed to all team up and combat Lumis. Reed questioned why, considering it was Thorne and Vink who left him high and dry back "Down Under". But now he was here in NXT, and he had beaten Vink in a match last week - they wanted to help him make a statement, and knock down Lumis? Thorne and Vink explained they did, but again Bronson told them to find their own fight. Walking away, Thorne and Vink pursued him - when all the while, from the darkness behind McKenzie peered Dexter Lumis from the shadows!

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6) Rinku and Saurav (with Malcolm Bivens) def. Cal Bloom and Nick Ogarelli (2:13)
- Malcolm Bivens' hopes of having the NXT Tag Team Championships fall into his Enterprise's hands continued, with many NXT Superstars allegedly signing the petition to force Matt Riddle to either defend his titles or vacate them - thanks to the titles' inactivity, as well as Pete Dunne's absence. Cal Bloom and Nick Ogarelli were taking their chances with Rinku and Saurav, but after a short burst of offense from the two powerhouses, Saurav would knock Bloom down with a swift kick to the jaw! A rolling DDT from Rinku put the Indian contingent in position to put Ogarelli away with a sidewalk slam into a diving elbow drop from the second!

No matter the size of their opponents, Rinku and Saurav had steamrolled the competition in Cal Bloom and Nick Ogarelli. As the imposing henchmen of Bivens Enterprise stood in dominance after the match, Malcolm Bivens obnoxiously climbed into the ring - placing the paperwork on the canvas. Rinku and Saurav then proceeded to force the WWE Performance Center upstarts to sign their names as a reminder of their disobedience!

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Opportunity Knocks
Backstage at Full Sail University, following the announcement made by Adam Cole and the Undisputed Era earlier tonight, word had quickly reached the participants in next week's Number One Contender's Triple Threat match! Velveteen Dream and Finn Bálor were exchanging words, with Dream claiming "the Prince" would not take this moment from him. Bálor disagreed - he was going to prove that NXT was still his domain. Matt Riddle suddenly arrived at the scene, the NXT Tag Team Champion claiming no matter what kind of respect he had for the two of them, he was going to be the first NXT Champion and NXT Tag Team Champion! Words were further exchanged between the three men, but Velveteen once again pushed that Riddle and Bálor would not take this opportunity away from him! Dream left, leaving Riddle and Bálor to wish one another luck. Bálor chose to walk away from the handshake attempt.

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A splitscreen was shown, of the NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair and her challenger tonight Candice LeRae walking the hall. Coming one week from 'A Flair For the Gold's tense confrontation between the two, Candice looked to achieve a lifelong goal after an eighteen year career - defeating "the Queen" to become NXT Women's Champion! The main event was coming up next.

Coming after his first victory in the B-Block of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament earlier tonight, Cameron Grimes flapped his gums in the hallway backstage. Running his mouth, "the Carolina Caveman" hollered exclaimed how he'd told everybody that he was going straight to the top, and that he was gonna win big in a clean sweep! Cameron continued by talking about his incredible weightloss to make it to 204.99 lb - when up walked none other than Kushida! "The Time Splitter" stared down Grimes, who nodded and made note of the fact he was his next opponent. Unlike their last meeting, this was his time to show Kushida they weren't in Japan anymore! Cameron stormed off, while Kushida smirked at the challenge presented.

Graphics aired on-screen as Tom Phillips, Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix ran down the current line-up for next week's edition of NXT. Adam Cole had set the stage for a massive Number One Contender's Triple Threat match - but who would the next challenger to the NXT Championship be? Matt Riddle, Velveteen Dream and Finn Bálor would meet next week!

Number One Contender's Triple Threat match - NXT Tag Team Champion Matt Riddle vs Velveteen Dream vs Finn Bálor
Raquel González vs Mercedes Martinez
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - A-Block - The Brian Kendrick (2pts - 1-0) vs El Hijo Del Fantasma (2pts - 1-0)
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - B-Block - Kushida (2pts - 1-0) vs Cameron Grimes (2pts - 1-0)

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7) Charlotte Flair (c) def. Candice LeRae to retain the NXT Women's Championship (9:15) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Candice LeRae was doing this not just for her recently-banished husband Johnny Gargano, but for herself. The eighteen-year veteran wanted to reach the pinnacle of the NXT Women's Division by defeating a WrestleMania main eventer in Charlotte Flair. The challenger showed resilience early, as Charlotte time and time again belittled her foe. Using hard chops, Candice would battle back with fierce chops of her own, and a sunset flip powerbomb got a near fall. Flair hoped to bail to the flor but Candice caught up to her - planting her with a dangerous Poison-Rana on the floor!
- Back from the commercial break, Candice LeRae delivered husband Johnny Gargano's slingshot spear for a near fall, before Charlotte Flair lucked out with a chop block to the side of the leg! The NXT Women's Champion showed every bit of what her father Ric Flair taught her in targeting the leg, and rubbing it in her challenger's face. Candice hoped to fight back, but as she looked to strike with a baseball slide, Flair caught her in prime position for the Figure-4 around the ring post! Candice was able to come back with an enzuigiri, but her leg would give out moments after! Charlotte proceeded to apply the Figure-8 seamlessly, but Candice refused to give in and let go of her dream. Instead scowling in the eyes of "the Queen", Candice was somehow able to might her way to the bottom rope! But the damage had been done, and as she struggled, Charlotte capitalized - the NXT Women Champion putting her away with the Natural Selection for the three count.

Charlotte Flair had successfully defended the NXT Women's Championship for the first time tonight against a very game Candice LeRae, who continued to clutch her leg in agony in defeat. "The Queen" appeared relieved to have gotten by, but the ring generalship of the RAW Superstar had seen her claim the win tonight. Candice needed to be helped out of the ring by a second official, while Flair arrogantly strutted around the ring victorious! Who could dethrone "the Queen" from "the Black and Gold Brand?"

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NXT INTERIM CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

PTS	A-BLOCK	B-BLOCK	PTS
2 [1-0]	The Brian Kendrick	Kushida	2 [1-0]
2 [1-0]	El Hijo Del Fantasma	Cameron Grimes	2 [1-0]
0 [0-1]	Isaiah Scott	Tony Nese	0 [0-1]
0 [0-1]	Oney Lorcan	Jake Atlas	0 [0-1]

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CakeWalker · Oct 6, 2022

RAW #1398 Review:

- Not going to hold back - calling Mike Bennett - Kanellis was one of the dumbest things the fed have ever done creatively. Hope you drop that soon.
- Really liked what you are building with Lynch and Shayna here - and throwing Asuka into the mix really spices up this storyline.
- I like the idea of the Garzas being on opposing sides of a feud - very interesting idea.
- I also like what you are building with Rhea and Charlotte - laying down some solid building blocks.
- Rowan losing in less than four minutes - seems awfully quick for such a big man to lose. Never a fan of heavyweight being finished off so quickly - although I suppose the fed is filled with a lot of really short matches so maybe there is an air of realism here too. Drew vs. Brock is a big time match though - so looking forward to checking it out.
- I never actually saw any of Styles with the Good Brothers on RAW - so am invested in this particular storyline - 'tooooooo sweeeeeeeeeeeet'.

I am enjoying this project - although I feel that once you get past Wrestlemania you will be able to stamp your own identity upon it. A good read though

DTP · Oct 7, 2022

Friday Night SmackDown #1080 – May 1, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by

MONEY IN THE BANK: ONE WEEK FROM SUNDAY

205 Live #177: The Matches That Made Me – May 1, 2020
- The Singh Brothers shared the matches that molded them into the WWE Superstars they were today.
- Shawn Michaels [1] def. Bret Hart [0] (c) to win the WWE Championship in a 60-Minute Iron Man match with Sweet Chin Music. (1:01:56; 31:20 shown) [WRESTLEMANIA XII - Mar 31, 1996]
- Lucha House Party (Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado) def. The Singh Brothers in a Tornado Tag Team match with a stereo tightrope diving elbow drop and Shooting Star Press. (10:52) [205 LIVE #136 - Jul 2, 2019]

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Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed everybody to Friday Night SmackDown, with only ten days until a new WWE Universal Champion would be crowned at WWE Money in the Bank! From the WWE Performance Center, Cole and Graves ran down what was scheduled to take place tonight - but first, the Men's Money in the Bank Qualifying match - an Over the Top Rope Challenge!

WWE Universal Championship Tournament - Semi-Final - Daniel Bryan vs Sheamus
WWE Universal Championship Tournament - Semi-Final - Jeff Hardy vs King Corbin
Women's Money in the Bank Qualifying match - Alexa Bliss vs Nikki Cross

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1) Big E (with Kofi Kingston) def. SmackDown Tag Team Champion John Morrison, Gran Metalik, Shinsuke Nakamura, Apollo Crews, Cesaro, Dolph Ziggler & Shorty G to qualify into the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match in an Over The Top Rope Challenge (18:49) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- A unique match kicked off Friday Night SmackDown, where two participants would begin the match and elimination would occur only by leaving the ring by going over the top rope. From there, a new entrant would enter in Gauntlet-like fashion - but ultimately only one could qualify for the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match.
- Dolph Ziggler and Shorty G kicked things off, with "the Show Off" having much to prove after being lambasted by Otis in an impromptu WrestleMania rematch last week. The skilled Olympian outwrestled him with ease in a battle of amateur wrestlers, when Ziggler raked the eyes and would send Shorty G hurdling in 3:11!
- Apollo Crews hit the ring third, finding Dolph Ziggler on the verge of elimination. Crews had much to redeem after losing out in the WWE Universal Championship Tournament to Daniel Bryan, but Apollo would fall as "the Show Off" struck with the Super Kick, after evading a standing moonsault. Dolph had Apollo over the top rope, when static flooded the video screen on the stage! It startled him, and the distraction saw Apollo back body drop Dolph Ziggler to the floor in 5:26!
- As Dolph Ziggler argued with ringside officials, having a full-blown meltdown over the distraction that caused his elimination, Cesaro entered fourth and looked to take Crews down with the Giant Swing immediately, but Crews landed out on his feet and struck with an enzuigiri! A clothesline sent Cesaro to the apron, but "the Swiss Cyborg" would duck Crews bringing both out to the apron. The two subsequently went back and forth on the apron - when Cesaro back suplexed Apollo onto his feet. Crews answered with a clothesline knocking Cesaro to the floor in 7:44!
- With "the Swiss Cyborg" eliminated, Apollo Crews was being ran through the gauntlet as his Artist Collective partner Shinsuke Nakamura hit the ring! On the apron, Cesaro tugged at the foot of Apollo as he struggled on the apron, allowing "the Artist" to strike with the Kinshasa eliminating Crews in 8:08!
- Back from the commercial break, Shinsuke Nakamura showboated in the ring to Cesaro's approval at ringside, when Gran Metalik made his return! "The King of the Ropes" met "the King of Strong Style" with a rapid succession of strikes, when a springboard armdrag had Nakamura almost eliminated. Cesaro was the differencemaker allowing Shin to connect with the inverted powerslam, but he foolishly mocked and degraded Metalik with a foot choke in the corner. Cesaro gave him a European uppercut through the ropes, before turning around and receiving a diving crossbody from Lince Dorado from the barricade! Lucha House Party had assembled, and the distraction saw Metalik dropkick Nakamura from the ring in 13:22!
- In the biggest upset of the Over the Top Rope Challenge thus far, Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado performed the "Lucha!" taunt to the chagrin of the outraged Artist Collective. SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz entered next, with "the A-Lister" suited and booted to join commentary. Dropping references about Joe Exotic, JoMo meanwhile engaged in a fast-paced lucha-libre showcase with "the King of the Ropes". Lince Dorado was supportive of his Lucha House Party tag partner against one-half of the champs, when Miz ran his mouth loud enough to distract Metalik on the ropes. Morrison capitalized with the Flying Chuck sending Metalik to the floor in 15:40!
- As John Morrison and The Miz mocked Lucha House Party as they departed the ringside area, the SmackDown Tag Team Champions would be taken by surprise once Big E entered the fold accompanied by Kofi Kingston! The New Day were prohibited from challenging Miz and Morrison for the titles so long as they reigned, but Big E hit the ring last and swiftly ran house on "the Friday Night Delight!" Another distraction from Miz allowed Morrison to turn the tide with a Pelé kick, but Kofi would join commentary causing an argument to ensue with "the A-Lister!" Morrison meanwhile looked to put Big E away with Starship Pain, when Big E made a recovery and shoved Morrison to the floor to win the Challenge in 18:49!

While Big E celebrated qualifying for the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match one week from Sunday, the Miz took great pleasure in reminding Kofi Kingston on commentary that this did not change the fact the New Day were still banned from challenging Miz and John Morrison for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships! Kofi didn't care and got back in "the A-Lister's" face, when suddenly the Forgotten Sons made their way out to the ramp. New Day stared down Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler and Wesley Blake from the ring, as now Big E and Kofi had to face the men who jumped them last week - later tonight!

Tonight - The New Day vs The Forgotten Sons

The Progressive Match-Flo aired, taking us back to last week on Friday Night SmackDown. The Quarter-Finals of the WWE Universal Championship Tournament would be rounded out, with King Corbin victorious against Mojo Rawley whilst Jeff Hardy succeeded against the WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn. It set the stage for tonight, where Hardy would meet Corbin in the Semi-Finals; whilst Daniel Bryan would meet Sheamus on the other side of the bracket!

May the Best Man Win
Daniel Bryan squatted in his locker room, anticipating action against Sheamus later tonight. A knock on the door saw none other than Jeff Hardy enter the room, as he greeted Daniel cordially. The two made small-talk, but Jeff made his intentions known. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" let Bryan know that whatever happened, he wanted him to know that what needed to be done would be done at Money in the Bank. If they met for the WWE Universal Championship at Money in the Bank, the gloves were off. Daniel understood, but stopped Jeff from leaving. He told Jeff that he was right, and although they shared respect for one another, Bryan wished for Jeff to know it was going to go one way or the other. There could only be one WWE Universal Champion, and he was going to be it. Jeff chuckled, telling Bryan he was glad they were on the same page. Bryan smiled as Jeff departed.

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Dolph Ziggler complained to Sonya Deville in the backstage area, furious about whatever the static stuff was about. Either way, it cost him his chance at becoming two-time Mr. Money in the Bank! "The Show Off" clearly irritated Sonya, who told Ziggler honestly that he needed to let it go. He failed the Over the Top Rope Challenge, but so what - their job was not finished. Ziggler told Deville he knew, but demanded justice. Sonya said true justice would be served tonight. She walked away cunningly, leaving the WWE Universe wondering what this meant.

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Michael Cole and Corey Graves stood ringside at the announce table, discussing the build-up for what was sure to be the most unique championship match in recent memory: the WWE 24/7 Championship was to be at stake between famed SuperBowl Champion Rob Gronkowski, the reigning and defending champ, against "So Smooth" Riddick Moss. They announced this coming week on Monday Night RAW, "Gronk" and Moss would meet face-to-face in the ring, before sending to video footage of "Gronk" training for Money in the Bank.

Sting Like A Butterfly, Float Like A Bee
Rob Gronkowski sat in the empty locker room in blue Zubaz, in deep thought about his fate in ten days time. He glanced up from the bench, looking toward the hanging WWE 24/7 Championship on the wall. A Rocky training montage began, showing the SuperBowl Champion working hard in the gym. Whether lifting weights and practicing in the rings at WWE Performance Center, or running across a Floridian beach like in 'Rocky III', "Gronk" was ready for Riddick Moss. The Tampa Bay Buccaneer hit the ring for an amateur boxing match with headgear. His opponent looked to beat "Gronk", but he responded with a furious succession of blows taking him down! In this moment, as his opponent laid on the canvas, the headgear removed revealed Rob's training partner - R-Truth! Groaning in pain, the Truth told "Gronk" he didn't need to go so hard on him! Cutting back to the Floridian beach, "Gronk" jumped and hugged with R-Truth a la Rocky Balboa and Apollo Creed - prepared for Money in the Bank!

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Mandy Rose spoke with her boyfriend Otis backstage, who couldn't understand why she had to go to the ring and do this without him. He knew what Sonya Deville was capable of, and she was no good. "The Golden Goddess" assured her man she could fend for herself, citing herself and Sonya's history in Fire & Desire. They may not be friends now, but they were. Deep down she believed Sonya was the same person she always was. Otis accepted this, letting Mandy know how he worried about his sweet peach. Mandy kissed him on the cheek, suggesting he give Tucker a call and check on his tag team partner. Mandy was headed to the ring alone - up next!

The Self-Assured King
Sarah Schreiber was standing by with King Corbin in the interview area. Entering the scene in his royal gown, "Wrestling Royalty" scoffed at the idea there even needed to be a tournament to determine the WWE Universal Champion. Last Fall, he won another tournament - it was called King of the Ring - and that was the only tournament he ever needed to win! Corbin reasoned he proved last week when he beat Mojo Rawley that he was more than worthy. He disfigured Elias in the Falls Count Anywhere match two weeks ago, which should have also proved he was more than worthy. The fact he had to prove himself to a junkie like Jeff Hardy was beneath him. Schreiber questioned if Corbin liked his chances, which offended the King! Corbin said he'd shown time and time again he was ready - and at Money in the Bank when he's stood in the ring with the gold around his waist, and the crown on is head, the whole world was going to accept the King as the fearless leader of Friday Night SmackDown.

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Fire & Desire: No More
Returning to the WWE Performance Center, Mandy Rose made her way down to the ring following the drama which took place last week, which led to Otis making a surprise return and defeating Dolph Ziggler to qualify for the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match. Mandy took to the microphone to address the behavior of her friend Sonya Deville, someone she once had so much time for. Much like Sonya said last week, the two of them were inseparable once upon a time. They broke into this business together, and made claims that Fire & Desire would be the recognized future WWE Women's Tag Team Champions of this generation! But with that all said, "the Golden Goddess" claimed what Sonya said last week, what she had done was unforgivable. All Sonya had to do was say she didn't want her to see Otis, rather than plot a whole scheme to ruin them. Rose defended her lover Otis, calling him nothing but a lovable beast of a man - who was soft, understanding, king, caring and gentle.

Sonya Deville was listening to every word of her former friend, making her own way out to the ring with a microphone of her own. She told Mandy Rose the terms she had composed last week to their friendship - how Mandy had a choice, and had ultimately made up her mind. Climbing into the ring, Sonya claimed Mandy did not control her, much like it was clear she didn't control Mandy. No matter what she could have told Rose when they were best friends, Mandy was just going to go ahead and do what she wanted. Her opinion was never valued, because she always had to be the ugly duckling sitting idly by while Mandy was the center of every depraved man's attention. Sonya claimed Mandy was a fake friend who used their companionship as a means to reach the level of fame she felt she deserved - but didn't deserve one bit of it! Mandy shot back, claiming if anyone was fake, it was Sonya. When it came to their friendship, nobody was more loyal than her!

Mandy Rose told Sonya Deville she believed there was still Fire & Desire in her heart, and that their friendship could be saved - if she just said she was sorry, and dropped the whole charade. Sonya looked away, musing her decision. Looking back at her with tears in her eyes, Sona claimed it left her no choice - than to be done with her bullsh*t. But before anything, she wanted Mandy to remember her - suddenly striking with a kick to the ribcage! Sonya revealed a smile as she began to pummel Mandy in the corner with rapidfire kicks! Fire & Desire was exploding, as Deville dragged Mandy across the canvas by her hair! She ran her mouth in the face of her beaten friend, when Otis came darting down the rampway hoping to come to his "Peach's" aid - when Dolph Ziggler cut him off with a steel chair shot to the ribcage! "The Show Off" followed with one across the spine, as Otis and Mandy were left victimized and separated by Sonya and Dolph, who each stood tall - their entire scheme tonight paying off perfectly.

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A graphic aired, showing the match coming up next. Last week SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks politicked to successfully have the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross compete against one-another for the final spot in the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match. Best friend would meet one-on-one, with the winner going to Money in the Bank.

An advertisement aired promoting WWE's partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Narrated by John Cena, after 40 years of wishes being granted to over 500,000 children fighting critical illness, he implored the WWE Universe to join them on World Wish Day 2020.

2) WWE Women's Tag Team Champion Alexa Bliss def. WWE Women's Tag Team Champion Nikki Cross to qualify into the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match (8:59) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- WWE Women's Tag Team Champions were prepared to fight for the right to enter the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match one week from Sunday, and as Nikki Cross and Alexa Bliss met with a hug of respect before the bell, the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks arrived! Making their way to the rampway with a giant box of popcorn in hand, the two took seats for the match to begin. The two exchanged holds early, with Nikki managing to outwrestle Bliss in a mat-based affair. "Little Miss Bliss" would claim control with a flying headscissors sending Cross shoulder-first into the ring post, which afforded her the opportunity to target the shoulder.
- Bayley and Sasha Banks lorded over the scene, marvelling while sharing the box of popcorn. Alexa Bliss continued to work over the shoulder of her tag team partner in opportunistic fashion when Nikki Cross battled back with a big clothesline off the ropes! The WWE Women's Tag Team Champions were not holding back as Cross looked for the Purge. Bliss broke free and connected with an arm-ringer, wrenching at the shoulder of the Scotswoman. Bliss connected with Insult to Injury, but Cross evaded and got an inside cradle. A sequence of pinning combinations followed, when Bliss succeeded in sheer luck with the sunset flip!

Nobody Puts "The First Lady" in a Corner
Alexa Bliss would be narrowly victorious against Nikki Cross in this meeting of the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions. En route to the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match one week from Sunday, "Little Miss Bliss" had her hand raised as Bayley and Sasha Banks watched disapprovingly. Bliss locked eyes with the Boss 'n' Hug Connection, when confronted by her tag partner. Holding the titles in hand, Cross threw one at Bliss's feet in frustration - but told Alexa to go on and win Money in the Bank! The two best friends hugged once again, prompting upset from the Boss 'n' Hug Connection. Bayley and Sasha prepared to hit the ring - but Lacey Evans' music hit! "The First Lady" stomped down the rampway, blasting the box of popcorn upward into the face of Bayley! Evans sent Banks flying with the Woman's Right, before tackling Bayley down to the ringside floor and swinging wildly at the SmackDown Women's Champion! Finally Bayley fled the scene, but Lacey was far from finished with the champ!

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Jeff Hardy - Chapter III: The Redemption
Following an introduction from Michael Cole and Corey Graves, a continuation of the mini-documentary series on the life of Jeff Hardy aired, titled Chapter III: The Redemption. Battling his demons and engaging on a rollercoaster journey to the top of sports entertainment with his WWE Championship victory in 2008, "the Charismatic Enigma's" world came crashing down, and he would be arrested on charges of drug trafficking. For years, Jeff was forced to pick up the pieces once again, as he explained becoming a father aided him back on the straight and narrow. Mugshots were shown, as Jeff wished for his daughters to never see him like that again. Footage of Hardy's personal life was shown, revealing his daughters Ruby and Nera - "the Hardy Girlz". WrestleMania 33 took place in Orlando, Florida - and the Camping World Stadium went electric as the Hardys made their illustrious return to the WWE, capturing the RAW Tag Team Championships. Jeff felt healthy, surviving through dark days to rebuild his legacy - coming back to WWE.

Next week - Jeff Hardy - Chapter IV: The Comeback.

Backstage at the WWE Performance Center, Jeff Hardy's eyes remained glued to the screen as he prepared to set off for the ring. "The Charismatic Enigma" was victorious in the Quarter-Final round against WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn - but could he surpass King Corbin? The first of two Semi-Finals matches was coming up next.

An advertisement aired, promoting WWE Monday Night RAW, this coming week. With six days until Money in the Bank, Drew McIntyre and Edge would sign the contract to make their WWE World Championship match official.

A graphic aired wishing Sir Captain Tom Moore a Happy 100th Birthday. A Tweet was shown from TMZ Sports, as WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre presented the World War II veteran with a personalized WWE World Championship of his own. For raising £30 million in support of the NHS through walks around his yard, "Captain Tom" was a living legend.

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3) Jeff Hardy def. King Corbin in a WWE Universal Championship Tournament Semi-Final match (6:28)
- The conclusion of tonight's Friday Night SmackDown would see the WWE Universal Championship Tournament Finals decided, with Jeff Hardy doing battle with King Corbin here, and Daniel Bryan set for battle with Sheamus later tonight. "The Charismatic Enigma" was riding high from viewing Chapter III: The Redemption moments ago, but King Corbin would blindsight him with an attack before the bell! Lighting him up with lefts and rights, "Wrestling Royalty" posed which opened him up for a return attack from Jeff who connected with a diving axe handle off the second rope! Hardy was on his way to Money in the Bank, when Corbin caught him with Deep Six! Trash-talking and slapping Hardy around, Corbin called him a "junkie" and a "fraud", firing his opponent up! Hardy battled back, sending the King under the ropes - just for Corbin to rush around ringside and dart back in with a clothesline! Corbin set up for the End of Days, but Jeff would reverse into the Twist of Fate - Hardy able to snatch the win!

After a match of playing the underdog, Jeff Hardy was able to bypass King Corbin on his way to the Tournament Finals! "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" celebrated his victory as Daniel Bryan was shown watching on from the backstage area in approval. With half of the WWE Universal Championship match for Money in the Bank set, only one Semi-Final match rematch tonight - pitting Bryan against Sheamus. As Jeff left, the King came to and was less than thrilled with the decision, arguing with the referee!

Hitting Bayley Where It Hurts
Following her return attack on the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks earlier tonight, Lacey Evans was caught up to by Sarah Schreiber backstage. Asked of her attack, "the First Lady" spoke about how it shouldn't be surprising what she did to the Boss 'n' Hug Connection. Lacey said that Bayley and "the Legit Boss" insulted her family when they didn't have the right - but she had the Woman's Right to punch their nasty butts into gear. Lacey challenged Bayley to a match, and vowed to hit her where it hurt - by taking the SmackDown Women's Championship at Money in the Bank.

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4) The Forgotten Sons (with Wesley Blake) def. The New Day (10:20) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- If it wasn't for the Forgotten Sons' debut on Friday Night SmackDown two weeks ago, the New Day would be receiving of another opportunity at the SmackDown Tag Team Championships. Tonight was the New Day's chance at revenge, but came on a night where one hour ago Big E endured the Over the Top Rope Challenge to qualify for the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match. Jaxson Ryker and Steve Cutler represented the trio, as Kofi Kingston ran wild on both men early, with Big E coming in for the assist. Big E worked hard to put Cutler in his place with a Big Ending attempt, when Wesley Blake's involvement allowed Ryker to blindsight him! The Forgotten Sons acted by keeping the fatigued Big E from Kofi, cutting off the ring. Big E was able to rally a comeback with a double clothesline, when the Sons responded using a double backbreaker!
- The damage continued to be done following with the commercial break, as Jaxson Ryker restrained Big E in a seated abdominal stretch. Rising to his feet, rallied by Kofi Kingston's cries, Big E battled back with a powerslam for Ryker, and a big tackle for the impeding Steve Cutler! The tag was made and Kofi Kingston was a man unleashed, outmaneuvering the Forgotten Sons and capping it off with a leaping Trust Fall over the top rope onto all three men! Kofi followed with the S.O.S. connecting on Cutler, but the referee was distracted by Ryker and Big E going back and forth on the floor! Wesley Blake snuck in, utilizing a lead pipe across the back of Kofi Kingston's neck! Draping Cutler on top, the Forgotten Sons had pulled off a milestone victory!

Nobody could have seen the Forgotten Sons walking away from this match with the New Day victorious, but as Wesley Blake aided Jaxson Ryker in the heat of a brawl with Big E at ringside, Big E would similarly be left laying thanks to the numbers' advantage! With a lead pipe in hand, Blake helped Ryker and Cutler come together on the rampway - their fists each raised in the air. As for the New Day, although Big E was now heading for Money in the Bank, what cost did it amount to?

▆▆▆

Sheamus Works for No One
With the winner set to meet Jeff Hardy in the WWE Universal Championship Tournament in one week from Sunday at Money in the Bank, Sheamus ceased warming up before heading down the hallway. There, he was met by the Artist Collective - Sami Zayn, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura. "The Celtic Warrior" met his former tag team partner "the Swiss Cyborg", as the WWE Intercontinental Champion appeared pleased with the job Sheamus did taking out Braun Strowman two weeks ago. "The Great Liberator" discussed the virtues of their friendship, suggesting another great sum of debt being bestowed to Sheamus, should he do similar to Daniel Bryan tonight. Sheamus continued to lock eyes with Cesaro, asking if he was fine playing Sami's lackey all of a sudden. Sheamus urged Sami not to get it twisted - there was no friendship, and he worked for nobody. His name was Sheamus, and he was here to decimate people.

That's why Sheamus was here, much like why he was here to take the WWE Universal Championship. Sheamus began to leave, when the Celt turned back and reminded Sami of how he once beat Daniel Bryan to become World Heavyweight Champion in eighteen seconds, on the Grandest Stage of WrestleMania. Sheamus thanked him and his lackeys for the opportunity - but Sheamus was doing this for himself. Sami smiled, wishing him luck. "The Celtic Warrior" was on the way to the ring, to battle Daniel Bryan in the second of two WWE Universal Championship Tournament Semi-Final matches - the main event up next!

The Most Winningest 'Dirt Sheet' of All-Time
SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz walked and talked on their way out of the WWE Performance Center. The two joked about how Big E could have the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match - New Day deserved the charity. "The A-Lister" stopped and brought up the quizzical idea of what was next for the two of them. They'd done so much in just a few months - running the New Day out of contention; running the Usos away from Friday Night SmackDown. They were walking tall on SmackDown like they owned the place - the A-Listers they were. Morrison questioned what Miz was getting at, when "the A-Lister" proposed they celebrate big-time next week! Miz suggested balloons, entertainment, guests - the works. "The Friday Night Delight" mused the idea momentarily, before telling him he was on! The two high-fived, as Miz declared it being the most winningest edition of 'the Dirt Sheet' the WWE Universe would ever remember. Miz and Morrison - Hey Hey, Ho Ho!

Next week - 'The Dirt Sheet': A Celebration

▆▆▆

Michael Cole and Corey Graves discussed Money in the Bank, one week from Sunday night. Running down the line-up for the WWE Network Special, the risk would be worth the reward for many WWE Superstars - including Lacey Evans, whose challenge to Bayley for the SmackDown Women's Championship had gone accepted!

WWE Universal Championship Tournament Finals - Jeff Hardy vs Daniel Bryan or Sheamus
WWE World Championship - Drew McIntyre (c) vs Edge
Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match - Samoa Joe vs vs Ricochet vs Bobby Lashley vs Big E vs Otis vs TBA
Seth Rollins vs Aleister Black
Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match - Sasha Banks vs Asuka vs Liv Morgan vs Shayna Baszler vs Carmella vs Alexa Bliss
WWE 24/7 Championship - Rob Gronkowski (c) vs Riddick Moss
SmackDown Women's Championship - Bayley (c) vs Lacey Evans (NEW!)
RAW Tag Team Championship - The Street Profits (c) vs AOP vs The Viking Raiders

▆▆▆

5) Sheamus def. Daniel Bryan in a WWE Universal Championship Tournament Semi-Final match (12:22) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Jeff Hardy was confirmed to be going to Money in the Bank to challenge the winner of this match to determine the vacant WWE Universal Championship, one week from Sunday. But here was to see a flashback from WrestleMania XXVIII. After breaking the ankle of Braun Strowman in an inhumane feat several weeks ago, "the Celtic Warrior" vowed to make an example of Daniel Bryan. Bryan dodged the very same Brogue Kick that cost him the World Heavyweight Championship in eighteen seconds eight years ago, striking with a rapidfire succession of kicks. The power of the Irishman was unmatched, as Sheamus blocked the leg kicks and responded with a short-arm clothesline! Bryan looked to fight back by instead targeting the shoulder, and a drop toe hold would send Sheamus to the floor. "The Yes Man" connected with the dive through the ropes, but Bryan connected with the barricade awkwardly!
- Back from the break, "the Celtic Warrior" took advantage of the shoulder injury plaguing Daniel Bryan since the dive moments ago, pummeling "the Yes Man" without relent. Sheamus mocked Bryan with a big grin on his face, when Bryan responded with some big forearms. Sheamus would put him back in his feet, sending him to the apron and slamming down with Beats of the Bodhran. Bryan continued to show resilient through two consecutive Irish Curse backbreakers, but as Sheamus lined up the Brogue Kick, Bryan would evade and look for the Yes Lock! Sheamus blocked it expertly, but the Running Knee took Sheamus down! Bryan had the match won, when Sami Zayn came rushing down the rampway. The WWE Intercontinental Champion teased a run-in, met with an intense look on the face of Bryan. The two exchanged words, as a cocky Sami watched Sheamus take Bryan down with the Brogue Kick, for the win!

The Finals are Set
The WWE Intercontinental Champion's work was done, as Sami Zayn had successfully dashed Daniel Bryan's hopes of advancing to the WWE Universal Championship Tournament Finals in ten days! Sheamus had his hand raised triumphantly, now scheduled to go on to meet Jeff Hardy at Money in the Bank, but "the Great Liberator" would climb onto the apron and communicate with Sheamus - that enough was not enough. This time, "the Celtic Warrior" decided to comply, dumping "the Yes Man" through the ropes to the floor! Sheamus delivered a second devastating Brogue Kick to the kneeling Bryan, much like he did to Braun Strowman two weeks ago! But the job was not done yet, and Sami was chomping at the bit. Peeking around the ring post, Sami watched as Sheamus rested Bryan's defenceless foot across the chopping block steel step. Powering up the upper part of the steps, the Celt was ready to shatter Bryan's ankle too - when Jeff Hardy hit the ringside area, armed with a steel chair! Sami bailed, as Hardy confronted Sheamus.

Jeff Hardy was prepared to swing, but Sheamus laughed and instead dropped the steps. Taking a leave over the barricade, "the Charismatic Enigma" and "the Celtic Warrior" continued to make eye contact with one another - one of these men would walk out of Money in the Bank as the new WWE Universal Champion!

Money in the Bank - WWE Universal Championship Tournament Finals - Jeff Hardy vs Sheamus

▆▆▆

Order · Oct 7, 2022

Here goes my review on SmackDown. A general point I would make is to slow down the posting, one show a week is a sweet spot for people to be able to keep up and give you valuable feedback. Of course, if you don't mind people not keeping up then feel free to post at the pace you are haha.

Things I liked

-Sheamus vs. Jeff Hardy setup - Now this is something I can get on board with and really does freshen up the title picture. I think with the Jeff Hardy redemption videos it may well go to him but personally, I'd love to see Sheamus having another run. Whatever happens, I'm intrigued to see the journey they go on and who their challengers are in the coming shows.

-Big E winning the Gauntlet - Sound strategy to have Big E win this although I wasn't a fan of the Gauntlet Battle Royal format. It essentially makes it a one-on-one match but you win by throwing someone over the top rope. Don't think it establishes someone as a threat so pins and submissions would have been better or just a straight Battle Royal. Logical to move Big E into this spot with New Day unable to challenge for the tag titles.

-Sami Zayn - The group of Sami, Shinsuke and Cesaro is star-studded and could be very fun. I'm slight surprised none of these three are involved in the title picture but it seems that they will be feuding with Bryan after the main event result. Sounds like a lot of fun to me!

-Ziggler/Otis - I'm intrigued to see where you go with this - I hated it in real life because I think everything about what they did was so obvious. There was nothing that kept me guessing and everyone knew there was no way Mandy was staying with Otis. Hopefully, things may work out differently or the journey will not the same at least.

Things to improve on

-Forgotten Sons - I could never get behind this group in real life and I wouldn't have them anywhere near the main roster, let alone getting better than New Day. Just my opinion of course, but it seems like you have big plans for them. Maybe, they are being built up strong to eventually lose. We can hope!

-Lacey Evans - Similar to above, I don't think Lacey is very good in the ring or on the microphone so I want her losing fast and Bayley/Sasha moving onto bigger and better things. I don't think there is any way you could present Lacey where I would care at all sadly.

Another enjoyable episode. SmackDown was a tough roster at this point during the pandemic and I think that shows in this one a little. Also, there was quite a spell where you had backstage segments and promos early on for seemingly ages. Could have done with a match just to break it up a tad.

CakeWalker · Oct 7, 2022

NXT #395 Review:

- I like Dijak getting involved with Priest and preventing him from attacking Lee. Good build for Dijak vs. Priest - Dijak is one of those ROH that I have felt WWE have never used properly so you filled me with some hope here.
- Lets go Dakota Kai! Throw in Nox into the Ladder Match and things are really starting to spice up for sure.
- Rhea and Charlotte is looking strong.
- DIY destroying the arena at the end is also very good booking.

Nice - going to start reading through from this point. And will start offering proper reviews again when I reach PPV [+ when I am up to date, as realised you have passed a hella archive]

CakeWalker · Oct 7, 2022

If I could make one suggestion - hyperlinking to front page. Especially PPV

DTP · Oct 7, 2022

After some careful consideration and experimentation this past week balancing the 3-brand shows in realtime - expect a new show once every 5 days. Thanks for the love so far.

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The Pandemic Project · Keep Your Distance · RAW · November 9, 2020 ·

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The Pandemic Project · Keep Your Distance · RAW · November 9, 2020 ·

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