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

DTP · Nov 16, 2022

Friday Night SmackDown #1082 – May 15, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by

FIVE DAYS REMOVED FROM MONEY IN THE BANK

205 Live #179 – May 15, 2020
- Tyler Breeze def. Tehuti Miles with the Beauty Shot. (7:09)
- The Brian Kendrick def. Danny Burch (with Oney Lorcan) with the Bully Choke. (6:25)

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A video package aired, taking us back to this Sunday night at Money in the Bank. Two Ladder matches determined who went away with the briefcases, and Asuka and Bobby Lashley would be the men to do so - but it came with controversy, as Drew Gulak was found left laying. "The Militant Mat-Mite's" attacker would be later revealed to be King Corbin, who took his spot though would be unable to get the job done. Otis came closest, only to be Speared through a barricade wall by "the All Mighty". The WWE Universal Championship was finally crowned in the finals of the tournament pitting Jeff Hardy against Sheamus. "The Celtic Warrior" worked hard to keep "the Charismatic Enigma" down, but Hardy would get the job done and once again reach the top of the mountain...yet before he could celebrate, Sheamus struck with a Brogue Kick interrupting a post-match interview!

The opening video package aired, bringing us to the WWE Performance Center for SmackDown. Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed us to the show, five days removed from Money in the Bank - but with a stellar line-up in store tonight on FOX!

We hear from the new WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy
WWE Women's Tag Team Championship - Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross (c) vs SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks
Daniel Bryan vs King Corbin
Fifteen Minutes of Fame - SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz vs Shorty G and TBA

1) Otis and Mandy Rose def. Dolph Ziggler and Sonya Deville (6:55) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The bitter rivalry between jolted partners Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville had reached intense heights over the past couple of weeks, as Sonya's grand plan alongside Dolph Ziggler resorted to attacking the lovers last week. Otis was bandaged and bruised from the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match, and immediately chased "the Show Off" out of the ring! Mandy Rose similarly chased Sonya Deville and was able to get her hands on her, striking with the Goddess Fall! Dolph dragged the girl he once dated off of her, when Otis came from behind with a big clothesline. Otis and Mandy scared Dolph and Sonya from the ring before "the Blue Collar Boy" dipped "the Golden Goddess" for a passionate kiss!
- As SmackDown returned, Dolph Ziggler was attacking the bandaged leg of Otis with stomps while Mandy Rose begged for the tag. "The Show Off" talked trash to Mandy about what their relationship could have been, while behind the referee's back Sonya Deville got in a big slap to the face of "the Blue Collar Boy", inciting his lover! Ziggler held a handstand sleeper on Otis, who slowly powered Dolph on his back, sandwiching him into the corner! Otis mauled Ziggler back with a corner splash, sidestepping Ziggler's, and the tag was made to Mandy! Fire & Desire exploded with shoulder thrusts from "the Golden Goddess" to her jilted friend! A distraction from Dolph allowed Sonya to use her mixed martial-arts background with kicks in the corner. Ziggler's attempt at the Zig Zag went blocked by the size of Otis, who struck with a powerslam! The Caterpillar saw Sonya jump on Otis's back before he could land it, but Otis grabbed hold of her, sending her to Kiss the Rose! Otis and Mandy would get sweet revenge.

Fire & Desire are Done; Heavy Machinery are Back
Otis picked Mandy Rose up for a big hug, the lovers kissing it out in victory. After such adulation from Dolph Ziggler and Sonya Deville, "the Blue Collar Boy" and "the Golden Goddess" came out against all odds. Sonya recovered in the corner when Mandy offered to forgive her former friend. Fire & Desire had hope yet, but Dolph Ziggler struck with a chop block to the bandaged leg of Otis! Mandy's back turned, Sonya nailed her with the Square-Up Kick! Deville was past the point of no return, leaving the ring and returning with a steel chair. Ziggler took it and wrapped it around Otis's ankle, climbing to the second rope and preparing to Pillmanize! Instead, Tucker rushed out to his partner's aid! An axe to grind with Ziggler, Sonya bailed leaving Dolph to take the heat from a man he took out of action last month! Tucker sent Ziggler into the Compactor, as Heavy Machinery were reunited at last! Otis and Mandy hugged it out, while Tucker stood tall over Ziggler. All the while, Sonya watched from the rampway in besmirch.

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Sarah Schreiber was backstage with WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross. Ahead of their defence against Bayley and Sasha Banks, Sarah noted how Money in the Bank saw neither "Little Miss Bliss" nor "the Legit Boss" walk away with the briefcase, but Nikki hijacked the interview! Speaking quickly about the SmackDown Women's Champion and her sidekick, "Naughty Nikki" had revelled for this moment for weeks! Sick of Bayley and Sasha, Cross was psyched to team with her best friend and establish themselves as the BFFs on Friday Night SmackDown! Gasping for breath after such a spiel, Alexa asked Nikki if she'd touched coffee today. Cross nodded, and Bliss confessed she was feeling less than 100% after Sunday, but this was something she had been waiting for a while too. Bayley may have slipped past Lacey Evans, and they may have beaten them in the past - but tonight was her and Nikki's night. Bliss mused who knew: after beating her, maybe she'd come for Bayley's title.

A video graphic aired, showing that Friday Night SmackDown was emanating from the WWE Performance Center - the WWE's "Athletic Hub" for future WWE Superstars.

Sonya Deville walked the hall with her arms folded in annoyance, when pursued by Dolph Ziggler. "The Show Off" demanded to know what the hell her walking out was all about. Clutching his ribs, Ziggler was furious that Sonya had left him to suffer the wrath of Heavy Machinery's Compactor. Dolph was bored of Deville's vendetta against the two of them, noting how him ambushing Tucker was her idea to begin with! In the background, the Hacker's static appeared on a monitor, left unnoticed while Sonya told Dolph he had played his part. They were done! Sonya had had enough of Dolph's failures and stormed off, leaving Dolph to pursue her. He questioned about the chemistry they shared, but was left alone! It was not his night.

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Daniel Bryan made his way out to the ring, chanting "YES!" all the way. Yet despite the upbeat nature of "the Yes Man", he remained determined as he set sights on his opponent tonight, King Corbin. Adorned in his crown and cowl, the King marched out to ringside with a microphone in hand. Denouncing Daniel for daring to challenge him, he defended his actions in taking out Drew Gulak. Corbin believed that Gulak didn't deserve to ever be in the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match, claiming him to be a brown stain on the very history of Money in the Bank. The King believed any competent man would take advantage of the same opportunity, looking around and claiming Corey Graves would back up his statement! Graves agreed, but as his back was turned, Bryan left the ring and decked Corbin with a forearm to the face! With a series of Yes Kicks against the side of the ring apron, Bryan sent Corbin into the ring.

2) Daniel Bryan def. King Corbin (3:27)
- Having jumped the gun, this was how much Daniel Bryan's training partnership with Drew Gulak meant to "the Yes Man". King Corbin hoped to shy away after the onslaught of Yes Kicks against the ring apron, holding his hands up to Bryan in mercy. Daniel continued with a roundhouse kick before driving repeated elbows into the collarbone of Corbin. Suddenly an eye rake and a mat slam saw the 2019 King of the Ring winner take advantage, with the dirty tactics of "Wrestling Royalty" coming through. Corbin dropped several knees across Bryan's chest, only to get a near fall. Daniel fought off a chinlock and hit the ropes, ducking a clothesline only to fall victim to the Deep Six - which Bryan kicked out of! Corbin continued to bring the pain to Daniel, who remained vigilant in the fight. Finally a run-up backflip from the top rope saw Bryan strike with a running clothesline, before stalking for the Running Knee! Corbin sidestepped it, but Bryan would take Corbin down in the Yes Lock - seeing the King instantly tap out.

Daniel Bryan was hesitant in releasing the Yes Lock after the bell, but finally succumbed. King Corbin clutched his shoulder in agony on the mat, whilst "the Yes Man" was backed away by the official. Throwing his hands up in the air with "YES!" chants among the empty WWE Performance Center, Bryan had successfully got revenge on behalf of his training partner, Drew Gulak.

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The SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz walked the hall making small-talk. Riding a high in which they refused to come down, "the A-Lister" and "the Friday Night Delight" were not even fazed about the potential challenge that awaited them. Last week, after a celebratory edition of 'the Dirt Sheet', Miz and Morrison were confronted by Shorty G. The champs challenged him to a match of their choosing - 'the Fifteen Minutes of Fame', with title implications at stake. But who would Shorty G's partner be? We would find out up next.

The 'Progressive Match Flo' took a look back to Becky Lynch's groundbreaking announcement from this past week on Monday Night RAW. "The Man" not only vacated the RAW Women's Championship, but shocked the WWE Universe when revealing that the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match victor Asuka had actually won the RAW Women's Championship the previous night. As "the Empress of Tomorrow" celebrated, Becky broke the news that she would be going away for a while to become a mother! In spite of Shayna Baszler's barbaric act later that night threatening to break the mother-to-be's arm, social media had been ablaze all week long in support of the former champ. Quotes from Sports Illustrated, People Magazine, ESPN, ABC News, TMZ, CBS Sports, Yahoo and FOX Sports popped on-screen, in addition to Tweets from Triple H, Vince McMahon, the Bella Twins, Maria Menounos and Mick Foley among others - all wishing "the Man" congratulations!

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Gu-Locked
Kayla Braxton was standing by backstage with King Corbin, who entered the scene in a foul mood. Reminding everybody how he was "Wrestling Royalty", he did not deserve what happened to him. Clutching his shoulder, Corbin ranted about Daniel Bryan being a barbarian stricken with "little man syndrome!" The King repeated how any WWE Superstar in his position would have done the same thing, because when a nerd as scrawny and as pathetic as Drew Gulak had a huge opportunity in front of him, Corbin believed Gulak didn't deserve it, which is why he took it away. Corbin continued to insult "the Militant Mat-Mite", but little did he realize that Drew Gulak stood behind him with arms folded! A bandaged forehead and a frown on his face, a motivated Gulak responded by taking Corbin down to the floor from behind in the Gu-Lock! Corbin screamed for help as Drew wrenched away at the hold without relent. Finally producers hit the scene to separate the two, as Corbin was left gasping for air! What came around, went around for the King.

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Inside the WWE Performance Center, SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz made their arrival in slow-motion. The co-hosts of 'the Dirt Sheet' stood in the ring, as "the A-Lister" welcomed everybody to the most must-see segment on Friday Night SmackDown tonight: the Fifteen Minutes of Fame! "The Friday Night Delight" snivelingly explained the rules, how Shorty G and whoever - or whatever - his tag team partner had fifteen minutes to try and beat the men of the hour. Miz liked that nickname, adding that only then could that man-child and his buddy earn themselves a shot at the champs to be beat! The question now remained who Shorty G's partner was - inviting him to join them. Shorty G made his way out to the rampway, looking more determined than previously seen in quite some time. He waited patiently, when joined - by Apollo Crews! Shorty and Apollo were in it together, as they hit the ring for a match with Miz and Morrison - with title implications!

3) SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz def. Shorty G and Apollo Crews in a Fifteen Minutes of Fame match (14:03) [THROUGH TWO BREAKS]
- Shorty G's tag team partner was an on-and-off ally in Apollo Crews, and the two hit the ring looking to make the SmackDown Tag Team Champions eat their own words with a future title opportunity hanging in the balance. The challengers cleared the ring of John Morrison and the Miz, when G came soaring with a dive through the ropes. Apollo followed suit with a dive of his own! The challengers were firmly in control, with 13:17 on the clock!
- Back from the commercial break, the Miz looked to slow Shorty G down with a sleeper hold, but the Olympian struck with a back suplex! Taking "the A-Lister's" arm and applying a hanging cross-armbreaker over the top rope, John Morrison struck with a harsh kick to the chest allowing the SmackDown Tag Team Champions to take control. Miz delivered Yes Kicks to G, but the challenger fought back with a belly-to-belly suplex - until "the Friday Night Delight" came from behind with a roundhouse kick! Miz and Morrison showed their chemistry with a catapult into a forearm smash, when a slingshot elbow drop saw JoMo catch G over Miz's knees for a near fall. Time was ticking away, as a standing moonsault saw G catch him in a triangle choke - but Miz broke it up. Apollo took out Miz, buying Shorty time to give Morrison a rolling German suplex! Miz broke it up, and the champs remained in control. With 6:28 remaining on the clock, G showed resilience in spite of a 180° spinning legdrop from Morrison.
- The Miz delivered ten punches to Shorty G in the corner as 3:50 remained on the clock, when the Olympian was able to duck out and come from behind with a flying clothesline! Despite John Morrison's efforts, an enzuigiri allowed G to tag Apollo Crews, who hopped in and cleaned house. The SmackDown Tag Team Champions were struck by dropkicks, when a gorilla press slam into a standing moonsault to Miz saw Morrison break the count! G delivered an Alpha-Plex into a standing shooting star press, but Miz was narrowly able to get his foot on the bottom rope. Morrison and Shorty tagged in with 1:47 remaining, but as G caught Morrison in the Ankle Lock, Miz came from behind with Skull Crushing Finale! Crews sent Morrison to the floor to fight, while inside Morrison got his hand over G to put a stop to G and Crews' 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' - as 0:47 remained on the clock!

Apollo Crews turned back and slid into the ring in disappointment, just in the nick of time for John Morrison to slip out. Joined by the Miz, the SmackDown Tag Team Champions celebrated with their titles on the rampway having survived their self-set Fifteen Minutes of Fame! There would be no title opportunity for Crews nor G, as Shorty slammed the canvas in annoyance after the bell.

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Backstage at the WWE Performance Center, the new WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy had arrived! "The Charismatic Enigma" hobbled down the hall, where greeted by Lucha House Party. Inaudibly, Jeff complimented Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado on their colorful gear, before patting them on the back and heading for the ring. Up next, the WWE Universe would hear from the new champ!

An advertisement aired, promoting a special WWE marathon, two episodes of WWE Ruthless Aggression would be broadcast back-to-back, to be followed by an all-new edition of WWE Backstage - as hosted by Renee Young and Booker T. It was all taking place this Tuesday night on FS1.

Following brief discussion from Michael Cole and Corey Graves, a video package aired taking us back to the WWE Universal Championship Tournament Finals from Money in the Bank. Jeff Hardy and Sheamus battled with all of their might to earn the right to leave with the title. "The Celtic Warrior" battered Jeff without relent, but a missed Brogue Kick would allow "the Charismatic Enigma" to achieve what he set out when he made his comeback to WWE three years ago: winning the WWE Universal Championship! The celebration was cut short however, as a post-match interview would see Sheamus strike leaving the new champ coronated with a fierce Brogue Kick.

The Partnership Continues
The new WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy came gyrating out to the rampway, pointing his fingers to the skies of the WWE Performance Center with one hand, while his other held the WWE Universal Championship. Walking down to the ring, "the Charismatic Enigma" graced the microphone with a smile, talking about how all of the adulation finally came to ahead last Sunday when he won "the Big One". Despite all of the setbacks, addictions and relapses, he finally had gotten back where he once was, and he had only the WWE Universe to thank for that. He missed them all dearly, explaining their absence was sorely missed. He wished they were there at Money in the Bank to witness him beat Sheamus - but alas, it was not to be. Jeff talked about "the Celtic Warrior" being one mean son of a gun, just as advertised. Sheamus had tried to make Friday Night SmackDown his playground, even daring to handicap Braun Strowman like no other man had!

Jeff Hardy claimed it was impressive, which was all the more unsurprising it was for Sheamus to be a petty, sore loser! The WWE Universal Champion said he should have seen the post-match Brogue Kick coming, calling his maturity into question. Fact was, Sheamus showed his ture colors at Money in the Bank, how he's not cut out for this title! Jeff talked about how Sunday should have been the culmination of his journey, having battled through addictions and injuries to make it back here - to climb the ladder and ascend to the top once again. With that, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" extended the invitation to Sheamus for a rematch - only the Artist Collective instead responded! Sami Zayn, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura walked out to the stage, as the WWE Intercontinental Champion discussed fair shake. He congratulated Jeff on winning "the Big One" last Sunday, but there was only one elite title on the SmackDown Brand - and it belonged to "the Great Liberator!"

Sami Zayn noted how Sheamus wasn't here tonight, but they were. While the WWE Universal Championship Tournament was going on, "the Great Liberator" had proven why his WWE Intercontinental Championship was the most important on this show. Jeff Hardy finally cut him off, reminding Sami of the outcome a few weeks back when he beat him to kick him out of the tournament! Zayn piped up that it was a fluke with fury, when Cesaro took the microphone. "The Swiss Cyborg" reminded Jeff who the shotcallers were around here, and claimed nobody cared for Jeff's little home movies. All the viewers of FOX cared about when tuning in on Friday nights was seeing the Artist Collective dominate their screens! Shinsuke Nakamura added how Jeff considered himself an artist, but he was no such thing! His music, his facepaint, his aura were all trash - and SmackDown only had one true rockstar. His name? "The King of Strong Style" himself, YeaOh!

The new WWE Universal Champion stood his ground, calling back Shinsuke Nakamura to the last time he made history: the same time he kicked a dude in the crotch at WrestleMania a few years ago. Ever since then, "the Artist" had been circling the bowl! "The King of Strong Style" was furious but restrained by Cesaro, as Jeff Hardy claimed they may be a collective but they weren't artists. They were just an Ass Collective! Sami Zayn had enough, believing it was time to do what they did best and make a statement. As the number one champ on the Brand, he led the Artist Collective down to ringside, cornering Hardy at ringside. Jeff was prepared to fight, when Sheamus snuck up behind him! "The Celtic Warrior" swung at Jeff, but the champ saw the set-up coming and fought him off. The Artist Collective hit the ring and swarmed "the Charismatic Enigma" with ease - a four-on-one advantage! Shinsuke and Cesaro held Jeff in place for the Brogue Kick, when Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak hit the scene!

"The Yes Man" and the recently-returned "Militant Mat-Mite" hit the ring, immediately bringing the fight to the Artist Collective. WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn stood off to the side as Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak took on Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura - until Sheamus swept in with the Irish Curse backbreaker to Bryan! Gulak brought the haymakers to Sheamus, but Cesaro came from behind with a European Uppercut, setting him up for the Brogue Kick from "the Celtic Warrior!" The Artist Collective stood tall over Bryan and Gulak, when Jeff Hardy recovered with the Twist of Fate attempt on "the Swiss Cyborg" - only to receive a Brogue Kick of his own for his troubles! The numbers advantage saw Sheamus and the Artist Collective's partnership continue, as Sheamus raised the WWE Universal Championship high - the intentions of the Irishman continuing out of Money in the Bank!

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The SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks were chilling backstage, not even sweating the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship match coming later tonight. The two laughed about Lacey Evans failing once again at Money in the Bank, when Kayla Braxton appeared wanting to interview the two. The Boss 'n' Hug Connection laughed off the idea of Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross being threats to their greatness, as Bayley questioned whether Kayla even saw Money in the Bank. Kayla questioned "the Legit Boss's" well-being after a tough night in the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match. Sasha vehemently denied any apparent weakness, saying she had simply saved herself for tonight: because tonight was the night herself and Bayley cemented their friendship as being superior to that of Alexa and Nikki's - by becoming WWE Women's Tag Team Champions. Bayley hollered how the people would be calling her "Bayley 2 Belts" after all was said and done.

A graphic aired, promoting episode 2: "The Redemption" - this Sunday on the WWE Network.

Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed us back to Friday Night SmackDown on FOX, beginning to discuss the set-up by the partnership between Sheamus and the Artist Collective against the new WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy. They were aided by Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak, but the numbers advantage proved too much in favor of "the Celtic Warrior" and the WWE Intercontinental Champion's men.

Unadvertised and Uncensored
A replay of what happened moments ago aired, but the picture grew distorted. The opening credits of 'the Firefly Fun House' aired, bringing us to an unscheduled edition of the show! Bray Wyatt greeted all the children watching, appearing through the front door and welcoming everybody to his show. With a new word to share with the WWE Universe: "money". With reference to Money in the Bank, Bray talked about how money equated to possessing "power to a lot of people. Taking a dollar bill from his pocket, he explained how this token of currency could be earned by completion of a task or a job well done - but the man with the money was a sucker and everybody knew it. Setting the bill alight, Bray believed that no money could buy a truly desperate man, which is why in the Firefly Fun House - money did not hold any value! The children laughed, when Ramblin' Rabbit questioned how Bray could afford groceries, bringing the host to slap him away - by hunting silly rabbits who thought they knew it all, that was how!

Ramblin' Rabbit defended his comment claiming he knew people with lots of money, when Mercy the Buzzard appeared to warn Rabbit that money made slaves out of humanity, and took away their independence; what made them whole. Rabbit questioned how, when Mercy expressed how it separated the rich and the poor, but money wasn't everything and left humanity obsolete and empty. Bray chuckled loudly, telling Mercy he ought to lighten up. The truth was, in the Firefly Fun House everything was free: even a smile every once in a while! His tone changed as Bray continued to discuss the virtues of how a free world opened you up to expect the unexpected...and that was what the little Fireflies could all expect. The screen flickered replacing Wyatt with The Fiend, who growled that they would all see. Returning to Bray suddenly, he waved goodbye enthusiastically, reminding people not to let their souls bleed dry when they grew rich and powerful. As cryptic and eerie as ever, what was the meaning of this?

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4) Carmella def. Dana Brooke (1:53)
- "The Princess of Staten Island" may have come up short in the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match this past Sunday, but looked to rebound against Dana Brooke. Dana spoke in an insert promo broadcast during her entrance, speaking about righting her wrongs and turning a new page in her career. Brooke wanted to avenge a loss suffered against Carmella last month, and proved keen early in showcasing her strength against Carmella. Brooke connected with a military press slam effortlessly sending Carmella across the ring, when a handspring elbow in the corner allowed Dana to attempt a fireman's carry. Carmella slipped free and fought back with clotheslines and a hurricanrana. Carmella struck with a spinning headscissors, but Dana blocked an attempt at the Code of Silence. Brooke muscled her out, but a Princess Kick stunned her! 'Mella rolled Dana up, once again getting the win!

Rolling out to celebrate, Carmella rebounded from the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match with an impressive victory. Dana Brooke could not understand where it all went wrong, having set her sights on turning a new page in her career - just to come up short again. Brooke contested the decision with the referee before throwing her limbs down on the mat and throwing a temper tantrum! Humiliating for Dana, Carmella could not help but laugh as she began to make her exit.

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An advertisement aired, promoting Monday Night RAW this coming week. In a first for the NXT Women's Championship, the gold would find itself on the line when Charlotte Flair defended against Bianca Belair. After threatening to break the arm of the mother-to-be Becky Lynch, Shayna Baszler would go up against the partner of the new RAW Women's Champion Asuka, Kairi Sane. Plus, Kevin Owens, Ricochet and Cedric Alexander would team up to do battle with Samoa Joe, Bobby Lashley and MVP!

SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz were stood talking in the backstage hallway after putting out Shorty G and Apollo Crews' chances of a future title opportunity earlier tonight in the 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame'. They laughed and joked about further proving there wasn't a tag team out there that could beat them. The two bumped into Heavy Machinery with Mandy Rose, the "Blue Collar Boys" back together again! Otis and Tucker caught Miz and Morrison with the titles and took a glance at them, but "the A-Lister" warned them not to be even think about it! "The Friday Night Delight" said they had already beaten them, and they sure hadn't done anything to prove they deserved another shot. JoMo and Miz took a walk, claiming they were going to go and grab dinner. Confused, Otis, Tucker and Mandy played it innocuously, when Otis wrapped his arms around both his "Precious Peach" and "Tucky" - it was good to have him back!

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A disclaimer graphic aired on-screen, warning that the comments made by the Forgotten Sons momentarily did not represent the views of the WWE.

The Forgotten Sons will Not Be Forgotten
Already stood in the ring inside the WWE Performance Center, the three Forgotten Sons members stood to attention in the middle of the ring. Under the low light, Jaxson Ryker talked about how it used to mean something to fight for something they all cared about so deeply. In fighting for their country, the United States of America, they used to be revered. While the USA were busy getting themselves into wars and conflicts, the three of them were overseas in the Middle East fighting for the rights of their fellow men. But in returning back home, and reacquainting themselves with normal life - nobody appreciated or respected the work they did. Steve Cutler stood imposingly with the lead pipe over his shoulder, as Wesley Blake continued. Telling the story of how they each served their country, they did it proudly. They fought for freedom time and time again, but they never received any gratitude. Instead, they were cast aside and overlooked by the more desirable assets that came through this sorry WWE Performance Center's doors!

Steve Cutler declared they had arrived on SmackDown, and this was where it all changed. It was time he and his brethren take WWE by storm, and it began with their dominant win last week against the New Day. Ryker said it was about domination and that's what they did, here to stay and not to be moved until they got the respect they deserved. The Forgotten Sons would go forgotten no more! The New Day interrupted the newcomers, with Big E's voice urging Ryker, Blake and Cutler not to be sour - to clap their hands and feel the power! The New Day strutted to the ring, but as Big E and Kofi Kingston took the microphone - they surprised the Forgotten Sons with fists flying. The New Day ducked a shot from the pipe from Cutler, allowing Kofi to strike with Trouble in Paradise! Big E looked for the Big Ending on Blake, but Ryker was able to drag him from the ring. The Sons retreated, and the New Day danced in the ring! No matter the numbers game, the New Day would not take the last week's 'L' lying down.

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The Artist Collective chatted about the conflict with Jeff Hardy, Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak in their dressing room, as WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn and Shinsuke Nakamura mused with Cesaro what else they had to do to make it clear to "the Yes Man" that they just weren't that into him! In walked Sheamus, who told the boys sternly that their work had only just begun. As he stared down his former tag team partner from the Bar days, Cesaro, "the Celtic Warrior" noted how he was reluctant about this partnership at first - but the more he thought about it, it was a match made in heaven. Next week they had the WWE Universal Champion and his lackeys dead to rights in an eight-man elimination tag team match. He and Sami laughed about who on earth would want to team with them. "The Great Liberator" assured victory next week, though Sheamus was sure to remind him of his stipulations. Sami said it was a done deal, as the Irishman smiled and shook hands with members of the Artist Collective.

Next week - 8-Man Elimination match - Sheamus, WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura vs WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy, Daniel Bryan, Drew Gulak and TBA.

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On a split-screen, the 'Battle of the BFFs' was moments away. WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross walked the hall proudly en route for the ring; whilst the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks appeared confident in their own walk towards the arena. With previous recorded victories, the Boss 'n' Hug Connection had earned this shot - but up next, Bliss and Cross looked to put Bayley and Banks to the test!

Michael Cole and Corey Graves discussed Friday Night SmackDown next week, where the main event had been determined. Sheamus would team up with the Artist Collective in an eight-man tag team elimination match to do battle with the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy, Daniel Bryan, Drew Gulak and a partner to be determined. The SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz would compete in another 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' match against the Lucha House Party; and in a No-Disqualification match, Tucker would look for revenge against Dolph Ziggler.

8-Man Tag Team Elimination match - WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy, Daniel Bryan, Drew Gulak and TBA vs Sheamus, WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn, Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura
Fifteen Minutes of Fame match - SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz vs Lucha House Party
No-Disqualification match - Dolph Ziggler vs Tucker

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5) SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks def. Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross (c) to capture the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship (10:31) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Bayley and Sasha Banks had been two of the most outspoken WWE Superstars since Friday Night SmackDown began emanating from the WWE Performance Center. In recent weeks, they recorded victories against the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross - but now, it was time for 'the Battle of the BFFs'. The champs hit the ring for combat with the Boss 'n' Hug Connection to kick things off, a free-for-all seeing Bayley and Sasha Banks sent running from the ring. Bliss and Cross followed ringside, where the champs would continue the fight. Inside, Bliss and Bayley kicked things off legally, as "Little Miss Bliss" caught Bayley with a hurricanrana for a near fall. She would work with Cross using a double suplex to the champ, when distracted by Banks. Bayley struck with a neckbreaker from behind, as Sasha Banks driving her knees into the sturnum of Alexa Bliss. - Nikki Cross was provoked repeatedly by Bayley as the SmackDown Women's Champion began to choke away at Bliss with her boot in the face.
- Alexa Bliss fought back with right hands, cut off by a meteora from "the Legit Boss". The confidence of the challengers saw the Boss 'n' Hug Connection further demoralize "Little Miss Bliss" until she was able to duck between Banks' legs and deliver the Code Red to Bayley! Cross made the tag and came in running wild, with clotheslines for everybody - to Bayley, Banks, and each in the corners! Bayley looked to walk away, even leaving Sasha high and dry - but Lacey Evans walked down the rampway, scaring Bayley back ringside! Bliss sent Bayley in before scrapping with Banks. Inside, Cross looked for the Purge but Bayley reversed into the inside cradle. Nikki kicked out but inadvertently knocked the official! The Scot blocked the headlock driver of the champ and got a rolling clutch cradle on the champ - but Bayley kicked her off, sending Cross into a shot from the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship! But it wasn't Sasha who helped, it was Tamina! Bayley dropped her with the headlock driver, to capture the titles!

The WWE Women's Tag Team Championships had changed hands, as Bayley raised her fists in victory. Tamina had shockingly came to Bayley and Sasha Banks' aid and appeared imposing at ringside, as Sasha Banks wrapped her arms around the Boss 'n' Hug Connection's newest ally. Nikki Cross remained out cold as Alexa Bliss slipped in to check on her best friend, when out to the ring darted Lacey Evans once again! "The First Lady" was not content with how her loss at Money in the Bank went down, and she would race Bayley and Banks from ringside. Together, the newly-crowned champs celebrated - as Bayley posed with her new accolade as well as the SmackDown Women's Championship. The prophecy had come true, as "Bayley 2-Belts" was dominating Friday nights with her BFF, Sasha Banks!

▆▆▆

DTP · Nov 19, 2022

beckylynchwwe

I have no idea what happens from here, but I do know that you’ve made all my dreams come true. I entered the PC in 2013 not knowing anyone, I left that same building tonight with my new family.

MAY 18, 2020 OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: BECKY LYNCH PREGNANT, UFC 249 CONTROVERSIES, MORE

- Rebecca Quin aka Becky Lynch, the biggest genuine women's pro wrestling star in the U.S. of the modern era, shocked the wrestling world on 5/11 by announcing she was pregnant.

The announcement was made in the opening segment of Raw that night. It had already gotten out that she would make a major announcement about her future and rumors spread of her being pregnant, and that she would vacate the title to Asuka, who had captured the Money in the Bank briefcase the night before. When Asuka came out, Lynch had the briefcase and opened it, and the title belt rather than a contract was in it, and told Asuka, who she called the greatest wrestler to defend the belt while she will be a mom. “You have been the best wrestler in the world for a long time and it’s why I’m so glad this is happening to you,” she told Asuka, who started the segment as a charismatic heel but ended with Lynch passing the torch to her as the standard bearer of the division.

Quin, 33, and fiancé Colby Lopez aka Seth Rollins, also 33, were scheduled to get married later this month but the wedding plans were postponed due to the Coronavirus. She indicated no commitment as to when they will get married. “I’ve always, always wanted kids,” Quin said in an interview with People Magazine. “I’m just so career-focused that it became one of those things that, when you’re chasing a dream for so long, I always wondered, `Am I going to get around to it? Is it going to happen for me?’” Quin is expecting in December, which would indicate probably February or early March for when she first got pregnant. She said she found out about it in April. She said that her first pregnancy test came back negative, but her own instincts told her differently and she bought a digital test that confirmed her beliefs. “I took the first one wrong,” she said. “Then I took a few more tests until I got a digital one that just said the word `Pregnant.’ I was with Seth at the time and he just threw his hands up in the air, all excited.”

For the Raw after WrestleMania, which was actually taped before WrestleMania, meaning before she knew she was pregnant, Lynch did an interview that appeared to focus on a return match with Shayna Baszler, who she beat on the show with the idea it was a fluke pin out of nowhere, designed to keep the program alive. Nia Jax returned and was pushed as a monster at about the same time. Both Jax and Baszler were focused on a match with Lynch on that show. The actual original booking plan was for Lynch to wrestle Baszler in a singles match at the MITB PPV, and to retain the title. Jax was originally booked to win MITB and be Lynch’s main rival for the title.

This leaves WWE, at a weak point in popularity to begin with, to have who internally were considered its two biggest full-time stars, both the male and female face of the company, Roman Reigns and Lynch, gone at the same time. Both absences will hurt, but WWE has its revenue pretty much guaranteed so losing top stars affects the bottom line less now than probably at any point for almost any company in history. Lynch made no commitment to anything in the future in her speech on Raw, just thanking the fans, who in her case, made her into a big star with the reactions to her after angles done with Ronda Rousey and Flair.

The pregnancy announcement came at a time when there had become interest in her in the acting world.

What was notable in her speech in the ring, was very sincerely thanking fans since she very much understands that while McMahon made the calls, that she was not the chosen one when the plans were first made and it was the fans who led McMahon to make her the chosen one when she was originally meant to be in the set-up position for the chosen main event.

Also in her speech, she never addressed the issue of coming back. Far more than men, a lot of women leave wrestling young, largely to have real lives that the old wrestling schedule really didn’t allow. Few of the women on the circuit have kids, and the ones who want them usually leave. Beth Phoenix and Trish Stratus were most notable for leaving and then starting a family. Mickie James did return full-time. Brie Bella returned, but never wrestled much after giving birth. This was the first time in American pro wrestling when a major league promotion world champion vacated her title due to pregnancy.

“I don’t know what the next chapter is because I only know what it’s like to think for myself when I’m by myself,” she said. “So I don’t know what it’ll look like and how my priorities shift and what I’m going to want in the future. So, everything’s open.” Regarding a wedding, she said, “We’ll get around to that. There’s no rush, and now we’ll have a little flower girl or page boy.”

- FOX announced this week that Smackdown would continue for its second season in the 8 p.m. Friday night time slot. The news was a basic formality as FOX has committed to the show in that slot through September of 2024. While there is always talk that bad ratings could cause a move because there are higher standards for FOX prime time than for cable, it was still unlikely. As noted, USA, FOX and TNT are all very aware of the issues with no crowd wrestling. Most likely, any decisions won’t be made unless numbers get so bad and it is the TV business and nothing is guaranteed if ratings are bad.

More likely nothing will be judged harshly until after the pandemic. When Smackdown was about to start on FOX, the goals for the show were a 1.0 in 18-49 and about 2.9 million viewers, figures that they haven’t come close to. However, the show still gives FOX 51 weeks of new programming, and the value of Smackdown was supposed to be winning handily over the summer months when the other networks were in reruns, and holding its own during the regular season.

In addition, Smackdown is a key part of the FOX overall strategy for the fall season which is Thursday through Sunday with sports, with the NFL on Thursday, Smackdown on Friday, College Football on Saturday and the NFL on Sunday. Even outside of football season the strategy is Smackdown on Friday and other sports, whether it be boxing or baseball, or college football, on Saturday.

- WWE returned to PPV with a Money in the Bank show built around two World Championship matches on 5/10.

The taping was done on 4/15 and 4/16 at WWE Performance Center, and surprisingly concluded in only two hours and 24 minutes, which was a positive. Not wearing out its welcome like most WWE shows do kind of overcome that the undecard wasn't good, although the Drew McIntyre vs Edge match was one of WWE's best bouts of the pandemic, even if it went too long. There is no internal doctrine right now to keep shows to a shorter length, just a decision made for this specific show. But since most took it as a positive, that could become the general rule until fans are back. The reaction to the show was mixed, mostly due to the panned 24/7 title match with Rob Gronkowski and Riddick Moss. In Gronk's first proper match, he was exposed as green and while Moss had been something of a fixture in NXT dating back years, it was evident he was not ready for this level.

With Roman Reigns and Becky Lynch now absent, the company is in a state of rebuilding in such a crucial point in time where both of their most major stars are gone from public view. Asuka won the women's MITB match first, which ended up being for the title although that wasn't announced until the next day. Bobby Lashley won the men's briefcase, thanks to MVP in what could be considered a flat finish. With no audience, both ladder matches were solid for what they were, but in this context they each served their purpose.

The next PPV will be Backlash on 6/14, presumably from the Performance Center. No matches were announced, but with the return of Randy Orton the main thing teased was Orton vs Drew McIntyre for the WWE Championship. Other things considered likely were Asuka vs Shayna Baszler for the women's title, a rematch between Jeff Hardy and Sheamus for the Universal title, and Murphy and Austin Theory vs either the Street Profits or the Viking Raiders for the RAW tag team titles.

Edge appeared to be written off in the angle at the end of the show, with plans being right now to main event with that at SummerSlam in August. Whether that will be for the title, or in front of fans, is another question although as of right now appears unlikely.

- SummerSlam and all the usual things that go with it look very unlikely for Boston in late August. Boston Mayor Marty Walsh said that they don't envision a point this summer where it makes sense to have large crowds gathered in the city. He said that all parades and festivals in the city would not take place until 9/7 at the earliest. Regarding rumors of SummerSlam being moved to September, Vince McMahon is determined to have a live crowd for this year's SummerSlam. Right now it is scheduled for August but if waiting until September is the only way to have the show in front of a live crowd, the thought is he would make that move but it is not a move decided on and he hasn’t outright committed to it. Vince is the person who will make the call and he changes his mind constantly and right now he sees the pandemic as something inconvenient because it gets in the way of his vision of what the product is supposed to be and his plans.

- There will be an NXT Takeover show called Takeover In Your House, using the same graphics of the mid-90s In Your house shows, taking place on 6/7 from Orlando. Nothing has been announced so far outside of Adam Cole vs Finn Bálor for the NXT title, and perhaps a WrestleMania rematch with Charlotte Flair and Rhea Ripley for the women's title. They will be bringing back old WWF 90s host Todd Pettingill to host the show.

- It should be noted that I know of several people in the company who are not comfortable at all about working right now but were not about to take WWE up on the offer for job security reasons, and this was before all the firings. There are still people not working who live in the U.S. but they are very few. The only person who publicly said he wouldn’t wrestle in a pandemic was Lio Rush as he was then fired. Now, granted, my belief is he was fired because he complained about pay and went into a depression about money and how he was being used months earlier.

- To show the pull of “Total Divas” and “Total Bellas,” the autobiography that Nikki and Brie Bella wrote that was just released, “Incomparable,” debuted at No. 7 this past week on the New York Times best sellers list in the non-fiction category.

- 205 Live looks to be returning to having matches, with the ongoing G-1 style tournament for the Cruiserweight title on NXT being the latest in a series of attempts to revive the fleeting division. While it is obvious the talent is there, 205's viewership figure remain at best, questionable due to being exclusive to WWE Network. The tapings coming after Money in the Bank had matches taped with the 205 Live graphics and set, so one would believe that they are hoping to reboot the division. It is speculated the finals of the interim title tournament will take place at the Takeover In Your House show on 6/7.

- Rachael Ellering, 27, who wrestled as Rachael Evers (after Lance Storm's real last name since Storm was her trainer) is now a free agent. I believe her release was around the same time as the other releases but the name never got out but her 30-day non-compete should be over or just about over and she put up a video that seemed to tease being a free agent. It's been confirmed she's no longer with the company. A few months ago she spoke to the company about having issues with the medical team and medical procedures. She was rehabbing after reconstructive knee surgery. Her complaints were not received well and a few weeks ago she was given two options, both of which essentially were that she was getting released. She chose one of them and was then released. There was a time when she was interested in leaving but this was a company decision.

Money in the Bank 2020 WON Ratings:
Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura vs Lucha House Party - ***¼
Women's Money in the Bank Ladder match - ***
Aleister Black vs Seth Rollins - ***¾
Rob Gronkowski vs Riddick Moss - *
Bayley vs Lacey Evans - **
Jeff Hardy vs Sheamus - ***½
Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match - ***¾
RAW Tag Team Championship - **¾
Drew McIntyre vs Edge - ****

TV Ratings:
RAW - 1.92 million viewers
NXT - 0.60 million viewers
SmackDown - 2.04 million viewers

DTP · Nov 22, 2022

Monday Night RAW #1408 - May 18, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by

LESS THAN FOUR WEEKS FROM BACKLASH

WWE Main Event #399 – May 22, 2020
- Riddick Moss def. Denzel Dejournette with the Smooth Drop. (3:19)
- Natalya def. Sarah Logan (with Ruby Riott) with the inside cradle. The Riott Squad ganged up on Natalya after the match. (4:48)

︾︾︾

A video package aired, taking us back to last week on Monday Night RAW. In the fallout of Money in the Bank, RAW Women's Champion Becky Lynch called the Women's Money in the Bank winner Asuka out to the ring to reveal that "The Man" had vacated the championship. In opening the briefcase to "the Empress of Tomorrow", Becky revealed that Asuka won the Ladder match - to become the new champion. Becky would reveal that she had to step away in order to become a mother, which created a tear-jerking scene. All night long, Lynch received congratulations from many - except for Shayna Baszler. As the new champ and Kairi Sane of the Kabuki Warriors took on the Riott Squad, "the Queen of Spades" sadistically threatened to snap the arm of the mother-to-be, causing Asuka to rush to the scene - but Shayna would be nowhere to be found! What was to be a perfect night for "the Man" was sabotaged by the MMA Fighter.

The opening video package aired, bringing us to the WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida. Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton welcomed us to Monday Night RAW, when the two's preview of tonight's three hour spectacle to come went interrupted!

Not Fair to Flair
The NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair came walking out to the ring ahead of her upcoming title defense tonight against Bianca Belair. "The Queen" was not dressed for competition, nor did she walk with the swagger the WWE Universe had come to expect. Into the ring, Charlotte took to the microphone to discuss the ultimatum that was made out of her hands this past week on NXT. Shooting to a replay of this past Wednesday night, Flair ran down her competition on "the Black and Gold Brand" before being interrupted by "the EST" herself. Belair once again challenged for the NXT Women's Championship, only to be refused the opportunity once again by the snobby "Queen" - when NXT General Manager William Regal appeared and decreed that for the first time ever, her title would be at stake tonight on RAW. Back to the present, Charlotte complained about tonight's defense, claiming Monday Night RAW was her show.

As far as the NXT Women's Champion was concerned, Bianca Belair had not earned an opportunity whatsoever. Charlotte Flair continued to protest the decision, speaking of how "the EST" had had her shot in the past and blown it at every given opportunity. If there was any doubt, Charlotte shot to another replay - this time from NXT on March 25, 2020! Not only did Flair defeat Bianca, but she made sure it was the last time she made her presence felt on "the Black and Gold Brand". Once again back to the present, Charlotte proclaimed that William Regal was out of his jurisdiction as NXT General Manager and thus, Flair was not defending her title tonight. Claiming she was going home, Charlotte's exit would go interrupted by Bianca Belair! "The EST" walked out to the ring, blocking the champ's exit and telling her she wasn't going anywhere. One time too many had Charlotte tried ducking her, but this time there was no getting away from her.

"The EST" accepted the fact that Charlotte Flair had beaten her before. She was NXT Women's Champion for a reason - but for selfish reasons! Bianca Belair mused "the Queen" was experiencing self-doubt, explaining why she went back to NXT to begin with. Flair protested this accusation, telling Bianca she went back to "the Black and Gold Brand" to keep the young stars of tomorrow in check when considering who the standard-bearer was in this business! Bianca said in that case, she would have no problem trying to keep her in check tonight. Bianca repeated that there was no ducking her again, and said she would fight anybody to get her shot at the gold. Flair laughed believing her challenger had put her own foot in her mouth: if she was willing to fight anybody, she had just the opponent for her! Flair called out to her unnamed accomplice, who soon walked out. Nia Jax came stomping down the rampway, as Bianca told Charlotte she was on - because unlike her, she was no cowardly little brat!

Graphics aired, as Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton continued where they were before the interruption from NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair. Tonight on Monday Night RAW would see Kevin Owens team up with Ricochet and Cedric Alexander against Samoa Joe, Bobby Lashley and MVP; Kairi Sane look for revenge against Shayna Baszler; the RAW Tag Team Championships would be at stake; plus, Seth Rollins was expected to make an apology for what he did to Aleister Black last week!

Kevin Owens, Ricochet and Cedric Alexander vs Samoa Joe, Bobby Lashley and MVP
Shayna Baszler vs Kairi Sane
RAW Tag Team Championship - Murphy and Austin Theory (c) vs The Viking Raiders
Seth Rollins apologizes

︾︾︾

1) Bianca Belair def. Nia Jax (4:35)
- It appeared "the EST" had walked into a trap set by the NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair. While NXT General Manager William Regal had sanctioned this match, the newcomer to Monday Night RAW had put her title opportunity against the woman who beat her last month, Nia Jax. Bianca was quick to use her speed to outmatch "the Irresistible Force". Bianca used chop blocks and leg kicks to stumble Jax to a knee, when a handspring moonsault got a near fall! Unfortunately, Nia caught her in mid-air from the middle rope, and a body slam followed with a legdrop! Belair was hurting but showed resilience, as Nia began to toy with her. Charlotte Flair watched confidently backstage, as Jax prepared to put Bianca away when she fought the Anihilator! Bianca tried the Glam Slam, when Nia powered out and struck with the Annihilator - only the underdog powered out at two! Nia daringly went to the top rope, but Bianca would catch her from the top and powerslam her down to the canvas - the legs hooked, giving Belair the victory!

Not only would Bianca Belair still receive her opportunity at the NXT Women's Championship later tonight on Monday Night RAW, but "the EST" had just brought an end to the undefeated streak of Nia Jax! "The EST" celebrated sweet revenge against the woman who beat her last month, when "the Irresistible Force" struck from behind. Jax was furious to have lost the match, taking Belair down with a big splash in the corner. Jax followed with not one legdrop but two, leaving Belair motionless! Backstage, Charlotte Flair watched the monitor with a confident smile, as Belair's chances of even making it to their title match tonight looked to be now in jeopardy!

Tonight - NXT Women's Championship - Charlotte Flair (c) vs Bianca Belair

︾︾︾

Charly Caruso was standing by with Humberto Carrillo. Humberto spoke of how it was a dream come true last week, to share the ring with Rey Mysterio. He wished it was under better circumstances, but when about to continue, up waltzed Angel Garza! Holding a bouquet of roses, "the Loverboy" apologized sincerely to Charly for the interruption. Caruso departed with the flowers with a smile on her face, as Angel confronted his cousin. He was sorry Carrillo was clearly born of less ambition and integrity than him. Garza questioned what happened to them, noting how Humberto used to listen to him. They used to be on good terms, but Humberto had to go against the grain. Carrillo argued that Angel was the one who changed, claiming he was gutless for hiding in Zelina Vega's camp with Andrade! Angel fired back in Spanish, soon translating into English calling Humberto the weak link of their family. It incensed Humberto, who yelled back in Latin tongue, challenging Angel to a match tonight!

Tonight - Humberto Carrillo vs Angel Garza

An advertisement aired, recapping moments from the new limited documentary series taking the industry by fire. 'The Undertaker: Last Ride'. With "Chapter 2: The Redemption" premiering last night, a special encore presentation would follow Monday Night RAW tonight, exclusively on the WWE Network.

Following discussion from Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton, a video package aired, taking us back to Money in the Bank. The hostilities between Aleister Black and the Church of Rollins had been building for weeks, with "the Anti-Hero" having refused Seth Rollins' invitation to join his illustrious group. Black refused to be a Disciple for "the Monday Night Messiah", and was able to defeat him in a hotly-contested battle eight nights ago. Last week on Monday Night RAW, Seth's world had to have changed forever, coming off such a defeat as well as the news about his wife Becky Lynch. Rollins apologized for his actions to the WWE Universe, when out came Black. "The Ominous Man from Amsterdam" appeared sceptical of Seth's sincerity, when it was revealed to be a set-up all along. Aleister was outnumbered by "the Messiah", but Rollins still appeared to battle an inner-turmoil...that is, until he sent Aleister face-first into the razor-sharp corner of the steel steps!

No Apologies
Seth Rollins came walking out to the stage with his followers in the Church of Rollins behind him. Akam and the RAW Tag Team Champions Murphy and Austin Theory walked behind "the Monday Night Messiah", who wore a black suit and tie with a single glove. The leader of this movement climbed into the ring with the Disciples, taking the time to discuss all of the congratulations he had received over the past week. While he had issues processing it at first, he could not be happier with his wife Becky Lynch's pregnancy. It meant their offspring would be born into a world where the parents were accomplished world-class WWE Champions! Seth spoke about his experience of mentorship, how behind him stood three men who each believed in the greatness offered by "the Messiah" standing before them. While Becky would be okay, he did offer advice to Shayna Baszler - to keep a set of eyes in the back of her head, because once "the Man" was done bearing Baby Rollins, she would be back to kick her ass!

As the Church of Rollins applauded their leader's comments, Seth Rollins turned to discuss the flip side of the coin. Since what ill-fate befell their friend Aleister Black last week, he had also heard nothing but distaste for the actions of what "the Monday Night Messiah" had done. While admitting to the fact that he and his men may have taken matters too far, he spoke about being here tonight to do what USA Network executives had urged: to apologize for his actions. Rollins cackled, acknowledging the second week in a row he had to apologize for something - but as much as he would like to do that, Seth simply couldn't bring himself to doing it. For so long, Aleister had been enigmatic. They were polar opposite, the two of them. They both shared similar hobbies, interests and motives, but what it all came down to was their drive. All Seth wanted to do was save Aleister from himself - his lone wolf personality was bound to bite him in the end, and look what happened.

As the Church of Rollins could have never intended what happened to the eye of Aleister Black last week, Seth Rollins stubbornly denied any responsibility for how it went down. "The Monday Night Messiah" could not have planned for it - but simply, fate took it out of his hands! Seth advised Aleister consider the fact he had it coming to him, due to his irresponsibility by refusing to join the Church! But as always, Rollins called Black the noncomformist, who had to deserve what happened. Rollins began to give it up to his loyal Disciples, Akam, Murphy and Austin Theory. They each stood by "the Messiah" despite such a devastating fluke at Money in the Bank, and he had them to thank - not only for sitting under the learning tree, but for being his biggest supporters! Rollins began to cackle about them making the Church what it was today - when out came the Viking Raiders. Erik and Ivar stampeded the rampway in headgear and with shields, prepared to take their opportunity for the RAW Tag Team Championships!

An advertisement aired, promoting a special WWE marathon, two episodes of WWE Ruthless Aggression would be broadcast back-to-back, to be followed by an all-new edition of WWE Backstage - as hosted by Renee Young and Booker T. It was all taking place tomorrow night on FS1.

2) Murphy and Austin Theory (with Akam) (c) def. The Viking Raiders to retain the RAW Tag Team Championship (6:27)
- Coming off the win against the Street Profits in a Number One Contender's match last week, the Viking Raiders prepared for battle against the new RAW Tag Team Champions. Akam stood imposingly at ringside, whilst Seth Rollins joined commentary to defend his comments made moments ago. Erik and Ivar overwhelmed the youngster Austin Theory, with Theory scrambling to tag in Murphy. A tag to Erik saw him get into a war of words with Akam at ringside, allowing Murphy to strike with a big boot! The new champs showed their chemistry, keeping Ivar grounded. Theory's arrogance shone, butit opened him up to receive an enzuigiri from "the Modern Day Viking!" Ivar stormed both, powering the champs simultaneously with a Samoan drop and fallaway slam for Murphy and Theory! The Viking Experience was lined up when Akam tried involving himself - but out came the Street Profits, squaring off with Akam! It distracted Ivar, when Theory capitalized with an impressive TKO to retain the titles!

On commentary, Seth Rollins applauded the RAW Tag Team Champions, especially Austin Theory for earning his stripes as the newest Disciple of the Church of Rollins. "The Monday Night Messiah" left the announce position pleased, while Theory and Murphy left the ring with Akam to rejoin Seth on the rampway. As the Church of Rollins stood victorious, in the ring tensions continued to rise between the Viking Raiders and the Street Profits! Erik and Ivar blamed Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins for losing this RAW Tag Team Championship opportunity, and eventually came to blows with the former champs. The Street Profits fired back, but as 'Ang was sent tumbling to the floor, Ford dove straight into the Viking Experience leaving him laying. "The Modern Day Vikings" vowed to one day become champions again!

︾︾︾

The Kabuki Warriors were backstage talking in Japanese, when approached by Charly Caruso. The newly-crowned RAW Women's Champion Asuka and Kairi Sane were furious to have been interrupted by Charly, but "the Empress of Tomorrow" allowed her to speak. Charly asked Kairi about her decision to challenge Shayna Baszler to a match tonight, after witnessing first-hand what she was capable last week. Kairi spoke in broken English about how "the Queen of Spades" could snap arms: she proved that last week against Kayden Carter. But when she hurt Becky Lynch, it was a step too far. Kairi reminded Charly of her rivalry with Shayna, dating back to NXT. Baszler had been unbeatable, but tonight was "the Pirate Princess's" night! Asuka stopped and warned Kairi to be careful, when Sane claimed she was unafraid.

An advertisement aired, promoting this week's edition of NXT on the USA Network. This Wednesday night, tempers would flare when Finn Bálor would go head-to-head with the man he defeated to earn his NXT TakeOver: In Your House opportunity at the NXT Championship - the Velveteen Dream. Plus, Matt Riddle and the partner of his choice would defend the NXT Tag Team Championships against Malcolm Bivens' Indian giants, Rinku and Saurav.

Getting "The Band" Back Together
Jinder Mahal was standing in the middle of the ring as Monday Night RAW returned to the WWE Performance Center. "The Modern Day Maharajah" talked about his return to the WWE after a lengthy sabbatical caused by injury. He expected much fanfare for a former WWE Champion such as himself, but instead he had received disrespect! Jinder complained about what the WWE Universe had to say about him on Twitter, reminding them of how he was of legendary status in his home country of India. Last week he had a conversation with an old friend in Drew McIntyre, where he hoped to gain some solidarity from a fellow teammate from the past. Unfortunately, it was clear the WWE World Champion was less interested in walking down memory lane with him about their days in the 3MB. Jinder called "the Scottish Terminator" a fake friend, calling him out for a match tonight! The bagpipes began playing, and out walked the WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre.

"The Scottish Terminator" appeared surprised, stepping into the ring and accepting the challenge of his former partner. Drew McIntyre said he was willing to fight Jinder Mahal here and now, but questioned if "the Modern Day Maharajah" even remembered how things grew so hostile so suddenly. Drew said the reason he was taken to 'Claymore Country' last week was all because he tried to catch him with Khallus. McIntyre told Jinder to face it: he didn't care about 3MB much more than he secretly wanted a shot at the WWE World Championship. Drew proposed Jinder could have his shot if he could beat him right now, soon caling out for a referee to come to the ring!

3) WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre def. Jinder Mahal (3:03)
- The WWE World Champion had Randy Orton in his rearview mirror after the attempted RKO last week, but here and now Drew McIntyre was here to grant Jinder Mahal his wish of attempting to earn a title opportunity. "The Modern Day Maharajah" was quickly overwhelmed following a Glasgow Kiss to start the match, but as McIntyre used his power to deliver a belly-to-belly suplex to the Indian out, a knee strike allowed him to turn the tables. Jinder grounded Drew with a backbreaker and looked for the Camel Clutch, but "the Scottish Terminator" would easily overpower him! The Scotsman fired back taking Jinder down, before beginning the countdown and taking Mahal to 'Claymore Country' a second week in a row! The Claymore Kick would give McIntyre the three count.

Blast From The Past
Drew McIntyre was victorious against his former 3MB bandmate, as Jinder Mahal laid prone on the canvas. The WWE World Champion took his title and celebrated, when Randy Orton made his way out to the rampway. Coyly, "the Viper" told "the Scottish Warrior" he was a lot of things. There was no mistake he had done some impressive things, including beating Brock Lesnar back at WrestleMania. Yet, "tough" and "tenacious" were two things Drew wasn't. Orton spoke about Drew hoping to bring the WWE into the 2020s when he became champ, and how he hoped to accomplish that by being an honorable WWE World Champion - "for the people" in such trying times. But "the Apex Predator" saw right through that charade, because McIntyre wasn't the man the WWE Universe thought he was. Randy commented on Drew being disloyal, insincere and above all else: a liar. While people considered him a snake, that much was unmistakable: but maybe Drew was an even bigger snake than he was!

While Jinder Mahal was no better, and Randy Orton offered kudos to Drew McIntyre for shutting him down in swift fashion tonight, he wanted to reacquaint the WWE World Champion to another friend he left in the dust: the other third of 3MB, Heath Slater! Walking out to the ring in jeans and a black T-shirt, "the One-Man Rock Band" appeared cheery as he pantomimed to his theme music one last time. Cheery and congratulatory of Drew's hard work paying off, he couldn't believe he was the man to beat now, here in the WWE! For over a decade, Slater had watched the Scotsman work his butt off to get where he was today. Nobody had worked harder to make it to the top of the world, but now Drew was here as the WWE World Champion! Heath hugged Drew and told him how glad he was to see him again - but the question remained: what about him? McIntyre's smirk turned to a frown, as Slater told Drew as much as he hated to say it, Randy was right - all the Scotsman thought about was himself!

Heath Slater talked about Drew McIntyre never helping him out. Three weeks ago he woke up to a phonecall: "the One-Man Rock Band" was told his services were no longer necessary. WWE released him, and Drew never sent him a dang text message! He questioned what about him, as now, Heath had kids. They were sad 'Daddy' was out of a job, and he personally held McIntyre responsible! The devastated WWE World Champion tried to explain, but Heath stood opposite him and told him he was nothing but a selfish b*stard! The alumni left the ring, as Drew took to the microphone and apologized. Suddenly, Jinder Mahal looked to hit the Khallus! The WWE World Champion threw him off, lining up another Claymore Kick. His conscience weighed heavy after what Slater said, and suddenly Randy Orton swept in with an RKO! "The Apex Predator" slithered over to the WWE World Championship and raised it high, before blasting Mahal for good measure! Manipulation was Orton's game, as his intentions were clear.

WWE's 'Match Made in Heaven' aired, presented by DQ's Chicken Strip Basket: "Happy Tastes Good". A replay from last week saw Kevin Owens battle Bobby Lashley when Samoa Joe attacked to cause the disqualification. The thought-to-be rivals teamed up to decimate "the Prize Fighter", when out ran Ricochet and Cedric Alexander to his aid.

MVP and Lana were in the backstage dressing room bickering back and forth about what Bobby Lashley's strategy needed to be tonight, when in walked "the All Mighty" to refocus them. Lashley claimed he was his own man - and while he appreciated the advice offered by "the Franchise Playa", and had nothing but respect for his wife, he was going to do what he needed to do. MVP contested that there was no rhyme or reason to his alliance with Samoa Joe, whereas all Lana wanted was for Lashley, Joe and MVP to win. She reminded Lashley of the humiliation Ricochet had caused the both of them in his past upsets, and Bobby told her how he could not forget. His arm around her, he promised that tonight he would smash the competition - no matter who stepped in his way. Lana was enamored by her husband's words and stroked his chest, causing MVP to groan in disgust.

︾︾︾

4) Shayna Baszler def. Kairi Sane (8:18) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- "The Queen of Spades" continued her mean streak last week, first by snapping the arm of NXT prospect Kayden Carter and then daring to snap the arm of the mother-to-be, Becky Lynch. Kairi Sane held a previous grudge dating back to NXT, and looked to put Shayna Baszler in her place, as the match got underway with Kairi showing fire with a dive to the floor. Sane brought submissions of her own to Baszler, applying an octopus stretch just for Shayna to masterfully find an escape. Shayna responded with a soccer kick to the arm, opening her up for a cross-armbreaker attempt. Sane continued to fight, but Baszler smartly wrenched Sane's arm over the top rope!
- Shayna Baszler continued to work over Kairi Sane's arm, having sent her shoulder-first into the ringside barricade during the break. "The Queen of Spades" continued with palm strikes for "the Pirate Princess", when Sane began to fight back! Shayna cut her off with an armslinger, but Sane fought back with an arm drag followed by the Sliding D! Sane fought back with heavy strikes and connected with hard elbows, before going to the top rope and landing the Insane Elbow! The cover was made, but the MMA Fighter was able to get her foot on the bottom rope. Furious, Sane was not deterred as she slapped on an armbar. Shayna rolled her up, when a sequence of pinfall attempts saw Kairi escape a backslide and attempted a Gotch-style cradle! But as Kaiir began the bridge, Shayna caught her in the Kirifuda Clutch forcing her to tap!

"The Pirate Princess" Becomes "Captain Hook"
"The Queen of Spades" had once again beaten Kairi Sane, and after the match refused to break the Kirifuda Clutch! "The Pirate Princess" continued to struggle and tap out, as the ruthless Shayna Baszler only broke the hold when the referee jumped in! The MMA Fighter begrudgingly accepted to have her hand raised by the official, before chasing him from the ring. That's when Shayna once again soccer kicked the arm of Kairi, before taking a microphone. Stepping on the Kabuki Warrior's hand, Shayna laughed and urged Asuka to come on out and help her friend - she was gonna need it! Asuka complied moments later, the RAW Women's Champion coming out to the rampway only to be halted by Baszler, who threatened to snap Kairi's arm much like she did last week to Kayden Carter! Shayna let her frustrations be heard, letting "the Empress of Tomorrow" know how ever since she came to Monday Night RAW, she had done nothing but decimate and demolish the Women's Division.

Shayna Baszler said all Asuka had to do was get her mits on the Money in the Bank briefcase, and how bogus that decision was! "The Queen of Spades" said she took Becky Lynch hostage because she should be RAW Women's Champion. Asuka screamed in Japanese, as Baszler warned her one step forward would result in "the Pirate Princess's" arm being broken - unless she was given what she wanted: a shot at the RAW Women's Championship. Asuka agreed, telling her she was on for tonight - but Shayna didn't care for that! She'd already beaten Kairi Sane. The MMA Fighter told Asuka she wanted her to realize she was being set up for failure - and demanded the shot at Backlash on June 14. Asuka accepted, but when Baszler considered letting her free, she told the champ she'd see her there - but she wouldn't see Kairi there. Baszler stomped on the point of Sane's elbow, snapping the arm beneath! Asuka hit the ring, whilst Baszler cockily waltzed out of the ring. Another week, another victim for Shayna!

A replay aired, reviewing the events from before the commercial break. Shayna Baszler not only defeated Kairi Sane in a competitive match, but "the Queen of Spades" would use "the Pirate Princess" as bait to propel herself into RAW Women's Championship contention. By blackmailing Asuka, the MMA Fighter added Sane to her list of victims - snapping her arm despite receiving the title opportunity. A graphic aired, confirming the match for Backlash on Sunday, June 14.

Backlash - RAW Women's Championship - Asuka (c) vs Shayna Baszler

During the break, footage aired of the RAW Women's Champion Asuka helping Kairi Sane to the backstage area alongside two officials. "The Pirate Princess" groaned in agony with what was perceived to be a broken arm caused by Shayna Baszler, when Byron Saxton left the announce table to ask "the Empress of Tomorrow" for her thoughts. Asuka looked towards Byron like he had seven heads, and merely screamed Shayna's name!

Back from the commercial break, following discussion from Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton about the feedback from 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride', a trailer aired promoting the next episode of the documentary series. "Chapter 3: The End of An Era" premieres this Sunday, exclusively on the WWE Network.

︾︾︾

Humberto Carrillo was prepared for his match coming up against cousin Angel Garza, when stopped in the hall by Rey Mysterio. Humberto was hesitant about seeing "the Legendary Luchador", when the veteran wished for him to understand despite their differences, he was concerned about what Andrade, Angel and Zelina Vega had up their sleeves tonight. Carrillo listened as Rey made it clear they had their issues, but hoped they could leave it in the past. Rey had made sure Dominik wasn't here tonight, and hoped he wouldn't be in the future, but wanted Humberto to know he still had his back. Mysterio offered his fist to Carrillo, who fist-bumped in return. Rey wished him luck against "the Loverboy".

Meanwhile, the WWE United States Champion Andrade conversed with Angel Garza as the two walked the hall accompanied by Zelina Vega. "El Idolo" rubbed "the Loverboy's" neck and urged him to make dogmeat out of Humberto Carrillo, and a determined Angel didn't promise victory - he confidently guaranteed it. Cousins were to collide - up next!

An advertisement aired, promoting the new 'WWE Ruthless Aggression' documentary series airing exclusively on the WWE Network. Tomorrow night, two new episodes of the series would air as part of a special WWE marathon. Broadcasting back-to-back before 'WWE Backstage' - as hosted by Renee Young and Booker T, it was all taking place on FS1.

Charly Caruso was standing outside of the trainer's office, where she discussed the beating issued to Bianca Belair by Nia Jax after their match earlier tonight. The broadcast journalist discussed how "the EST" was expected to still challenge for the NXT Women's Championship later tonight, yet as it stood nobody knew whether Bianca would be in any shape to compete. Charlotte Flair bombastically strutted onto the scene, commenting how it was such a shame what had happened to her. "The Queen" bragged about how Bianca had wanted this opportunity for so long - but now her own idiocy might have cost her. Charlotte implied Bianca would have loved for this match to be postponed to any other night, but that would not happen. Flair declared the match would be happening tonight, no matter what shape Belair was in. Wooo!

︾︾︾

5) Angel Garza def. Humberto Carrillo (9:28) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The cousins were once close, but that was clearly a long time ago. Angel Garza interrupted Humberto Carrillo and called him "gutless" earlier tonight during an interview, which incensed Carrillo and caused the challenge to be made. WWE United States Champion Andrade and Zelina Vega walked Angel Garza out to the rampway when he sent them to the back! Believing this was strictly a family affair, Garza was overwhelmed by an excited Humberto early. While a high-flyer by trade, Carrillo was motivated and he worked to ground Garza with a bow-and-arrow early. Angel fought back with a low dropkick, and he proceeded to work away at the knee of his family member. Carrillo caught Angel on a baseball slide through the ropes with a swift kick to the chest, a new fire instilled within him!
- Humberto Carrillo's fire continued to drive him back from the commercial break, when Angel Garza caught his cousin on a tornado DDT and sent him face-first! "The Loverboy" obnoxiously choked Carrillo on the ropes and showboated, sitting atop the top rope like it was a hammock. With a Romero special, Garza applied a dragon sleeper variation, when Humberto finally rolled out and struck with a double footstomp! Carrillo mounted a comeback with a floatover DDT for a near fall, when a springboard moonsault to the floor saw Humberto take height. Carrillo rolled him back inside and went for the springboard roundhouse kick, when Andrade returned ringside! Striking him in the leg with the WWE United States Championship, Angel capitalized with the Wingclipper to put away his cousin!

Angel Garza had gotten one over on his cousin, despite his intentions to win without the aid of Andrade. The WWE United States Champion was overjoyed with his cousin's hard-fought win, hugging him, but Angel pushed "El Idolo" back a step. Zelina Vega arrived and tried to cool things over, as Angel made it known this was strictly family business and nothing to do with him! Humberto Carrillo favored his knee in the corner, when Rey Mysterio came running down to the ring and connected with a springboard seated senton on Andrade. Sounding off with punches, Angel was slow to make the save, but Carrillo struck with a spinning wheel kick sending him from the ring. As Andrade and Angel retreated ringside, Humberto and Rey stared them down from inside. The conflict would continue, as Andrade trash-talked Rey. Meanwhile, Angel did not seem pleased with the champ's continued interference!

︾︾︾

Ricochet and Cedric Alexander stood in the locker room chatting, when Kevin Owens entered the scene. Wrapping his arms around both of them, he told the boys that now wasn't the time for chatter about 'Tiger King', or what was hot on Netflix. KO said tonight was about doing two things: kicking ass and making sure that dumbass Samoan realizes the world he's gotten himself into. "The Future of Flight" and "Lumbar Legacy" told "the Prize Fighter" they had this, but Owens said this wasn't about winning or losing: this was about fighting. The three left the room and headed for the ring. Six-man tag team action was up next!

Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton discussed Friday Night SmackDown this coming week on FOX. Not only would WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy, Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak alongside a mystery partner do battle with Sheamus and the Artist Collective in an eight-man elimination tag team match; but Heavy Machinery's Tucker would look for revenge against Dolph Ziggler in a No-Disqualification match! Plus, the Lucha House Party would take part in John Morrison and The Miz's 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame'.

8-Man Elimination Tag Team match - WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy, Daniel Bryan, Drew Gulak and TBA vs Sheamus, WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura and Cesaro
No-Disqualification match - Dolph Ziggler vs Tucker
'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' - SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz vs Lucha House Party.

︾︾︾

6) Samoa Joe, Bobby Lashley and MVP (with Lana) def. Kevin Owens, Ricochet and Cedric Alexander (10:23) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Since WrestleMania, Kevin Owens had been plotting to get his hands on "the Coquina Destroyer" and this was his first chance. After Ricochet and Cedric Alexander came to his aid from Samoa Joe, Bobby Lashley and MVP, the thought-to-be rivals teamed up and showed some more friction. It allowed Owens, Ricochet and Alexander to strike, as "Lumbar Legacy" impressed early against MVP. The veteran escaped to "the All Mighty" for the tag, but would be outran by "the Future of Flight!" Ricochet ducked and dove over Lashley, surprising him with a spinning headscissors! Ricochet nipped up with a dropkick into an enzuigiri, when KO rushed in with a superkick for good measure. Lashley took a tumble through the ropes and went ballistic - MVP and Lana being forced to restrain him! Joe questioned what was going on with him, bringing Lashley to get in even his face!
- Back from the break, Kevin Owens snapmared and kicked MVP in the spine, as he continued to trash-talk Samoa Joe. "The Coquina Destroyer" continued to work over "the Franchise Playa" when Joe teased climbing inside. Owens got in his face, when Lashley tagged in and ambushed him from behind with a spinebuster! From there, Lashley and Joe appeared on the same page, as "the All Mighty" scored a near fall with a powerslam. MVP grew over-confident and missed the Ballin' Elbow, allowing "the Prize Fighter" the opening needed to strike back with a pumphandle neckbreaker! The tag was made to Ricochet, who teamed with Cedric to stun Lashley. Bobby swatted Alexander away, when the two knocked him down with a double superkick! Ricochet rushed Joe in the corner, who caught him with the Uranage! Knocking Owens from the apron, Cedric tried his luck with the Samoan when Lashley came in with a clothesline. KO returned and brought the fight to Joe, as the two brawled from the ring and up the rampway! Joe was overwhelmed and was ran from the WWE Performance Center - to the backstage area! Inside, Alexander attempted the Lumbar Check but Lashley overpowered him and struck with the Spear for the three count!

Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe had both disappeared to the backstage area, and consequently Bobby Lashley was able to lay waste to Cedric Alexander. Lana applauded her man by climbing onto the apron and giving him a passionate kiss, whilst MVP rolled his eyes and simply raised his hand high. Ricochet and Lashley continued to exchange words, but "the All Mighty" was pulled from the ring hand-in-hand with his wife - their marriage recovering by the night.

Caught on "The John"
Backstage, cameras were able to catch up with Kevin Owens, who continued to deck Samoa Joe as he sat against a concrete wall. "The Coquina Destroyer" was getting a taste of his own medicine for taking "the Prize Fighter" out back at WrestleMania, as the Canadian screamed in the Samoan's face with rage! Joe kicked the leg from under KO before being able to buy himself some breathing room - but Owens responded with a mighty headbutt sending Joe into the men's room! Into the bathroom stall, Owens continued to pummel Joe with strikes, leaving him seated on the toilet. Owens was finally restrained by an official, but was sure to warn Joe he was a long way from finished with him!

Monday Night RAW rolled on as Randy Orton took a casual walk down the corridor, when stopped by Charly Caruso. Following the head games and manipulation of Drew McIntyre earlier tonight, Charly wanted to know more about "the Apex Predator's" issue with "the Scottish Terminator". Simply, Orton made it clear he didn't think about Drew McIntyre at all, nor did he care about what kind of person he was. This was strictly business - it was about what he represented. The WWE World Championship McIntyre held was something he had accomplished nine times, but he wanted it a tenth time. Orton made it clear at Money in the Bank, much like he made it clear tonight: there was nobody even close to being on "the Viper's" level. He was on the roll of his career, and he didn't care what the Scotsman thought about it: he was going to be a ten-time champion before Drew even knew it.

︾︾︾

Go Big or Go Home
The O.C. were once again waving their flag high in the ring of the WWE Performance Center. #Justice4AJ was all the craze as far as Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows were concerned, as K.A. noted another week and still no sign of consideration or respect to their cause. All they wanted was answers, and action to be held. They each wanted The Undertaker to be held accountable for what happened at WrestleMania, where WWE not only violated "Phenomenal Hoot's" contract; but they failed to deliver proper health and safety protocol! "The Big LG" echoed Anderson's words, claiming AJ Styles did not deserve to be buried alive. He was a former World Champion! Anderson agreed, as the two declared that now was the time for them to take action: by taking Monday Night RAW hostage! Gallows claimed that they were not going anywhere until their cries went heard. There would be no main event so long as the O.C. could do anything about it.

Titus O'Neil would make his arrival in a brown suit. Entering the ring, O'Neil questioned why the O.C. were making so much noise about something that happened over six weeks ago. Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows mocked Titus, claiming he may be a WWE Ambassador - but he had no say in what they did. Gallows told Titus to go read to schoolkids, how this was way above his paygrade. As K.A. and "the Big LG" bragged about their salaries, they did the "Millions of Dollars" dance synonymous with "the Prime Time Player!" Titus warned the two that they did not want to do this, when Gallows goaded Titus and asked what he was going to do about it. Titus sighed, when out came Big Show! The star of 'the Big Show Show' made his return to RAW, stomping down to the ring and bringing Anderson and Gallows to reluctantly strike - only to be sent running from the ring by the two! "The World's Largest Athlete" dared them to come back for round two, but Anderson and Gallows decided to instead take a walk.

︾︾︾

Backstage, the NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair walked with poise. "The Queen" had ducked her challenger for weeks, but now had an eager grin on her face as she headed to the ring. But despite the beating received after defeating Nia Jax earlier tonight, Bianca Belair clutched her shoulder and continued to warm up. "The EST" was not about to miss this title opportunity for the world, as for the very first time, the NXT Women's Championship would be at stake, in the main event of RAW - up next!

A replay of the wild brawl between Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe aired, recapping what transpired as the six-man tag team match went on earlier tonight. KO and "the Coquina Destroyer" not only fought relentlessly to ringside, but they continued to fight to the backstage area. The Canadian would not let up against the Samoan, even fighting him into the WWE Performance Center's bathroom stall! Owens left Joe a pounded man, sat on the toilet - but their rivalry had only just truly begun.

Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton discussed the events of tonight, and began to promote what was scheduled to take place next week on Monday Night RAW. Coming after the backstage brawl earlier tonight, Kevin Owens would have his wish granted when he went up against Samoa Joe. RAW Women's Champion Asuka had been challenged by Ruby Riott of the Riott Squad; meanwhile, the O.C. would team up to battle Titus O'Neil and the newly-returned Big Show.

Kevin Owens vs Samoa Joe
RAW Women's Champion Asuka vs Ruby Riott
Big Show and Titus O'Neil vs The O.C.

︾︾︾

7) Charlotte Flair (c) def. Bianca Belair to retain the NXT Women's Championship (13:19) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- For the first time in the history of the coveted NXT Women's Championship, Charlotte Flair would defend the title in the main event of Monday Night RAW against Bianca Belair. The resilient "EST" had already won a match, and endured a beating from Nia Jax earlier tonight, and did not look 100% as she clutched her shoulder in pain. Regardless, "the EST" was here and was game in tackling Flair to get this title match underway! "The Dirtiest Player in the Game" escaped to ringside, but Bianca refused to let up with a dive through the ropes. Continuing the attack against the barricade, Flair was whipped by Bianca's hairbraid! Back inside, Belair continued by hurling the NXT Women's Champion from one end of the ring to another with a biel throw - as RAW took its' final commercial break!
- Charlotte Flair stomped the leg and delivered a shinbreaker to Bianca Belair. Lacking in an arm and a leg, Belair was chop blocked by "the Queen". Flair whipped her leg against the ring post hard before teasing the Figure-4. Belair pulled her face-first into the LED post, when Belair came off the apron with a moonsault! The heart of the challenger saw Bianca connect with the Glam Slam for a near fall. A superplex took both women from the top rope, but Flair cradled for a near fall. In arguing with the official, Belair hit the K.O.D! A new champ should have been crowned, but to the apron rushed the Iiconics! Billie Kay distracted as Peyton Royce raced in, though Belair sent Royce into Billie! Flair rolled Bianca up, to be sent into the referee. Royce returned with the NXT Women's Championship, but Bianca caught her and military pressed Royce onto Kay on the floor - with one arm! Flair chop blocked from behind, however, and the Natural Selection on the title allowed Charlotte to weasel away with the gold!

The NXT Women's Champion sat up in the ring and hugged her gold, as "the Queen" was able to escape from such a hard-fought title defense only with help from the Iiconics. Billie Kay and Peyton Royce joined Flair in the ring, as Bianca Belair remained down and out from being sent face-first into the gold. Leaving the ring, Flair continued the celebration with a strut her father would be proud of. Suddenly, the Iiconics proceeded to hoist Flair up on their shoulders on the rampway. The NXT Women's Champion raised her title high - much to the dismay of "the EST" in the ring. Flair's reign would continue, but the trio could not deny the tenacity of Bianca Belair!

︾︾︾

DTP · Nov 24, 2022

WWE Backlash 2020 - June 14, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"Destiny Calls"
"Watch Me Now" by Kevin Rudolf

LESS THAN FOUR WEEKS AWAY!

RAW WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP
Asuka (c) vs Shayna Baszler

Matches to be announced.

DTP · Nov 26, 2022

NXT #405 - May 20, 2020
Full Sail University - Orlando, Florida
Presented by

LESS THAN THREE WEEKS FROM NXT TAKEOVER: IN YOUR HOUSE

NXT UK #93: Hidden Gems - May 21, 2020

- Finlay (c) def. William Regal following a shot with Regal's boot to retain the WWE United States Championship. (14:00) [WWE GREAT AMERICAN BASH 2006 - JUL 23, 2006]
- Rhea Ripley def. Toni Storm with the Rip Tide in the Finals of the NXT UK Women's Championship Tournament to capture the title. (9:27) [NXT UK #12 - NOV 28, 2018]
- British Bulldog def. Bret Hart (c) with the reversal of a sunset flip to capture the WWE Intercontinental Championship. (25:40) [WWE SUMMERSLAM 1992 - AUG 31, 1992]

☗☗☗

A graphic aired, in memorium of the late former WWE Superstar Shad Gaspard, 1981-2020, who was tragically washed ashore today at the age of 39.

1) Velveteen Dream def. Finn Bálor (11:01) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Since the Velveteen Dream decided not to aid Finn Bálor in a post-match ambush from the Undisputed Era two weeks ago, "the Prince" took Dream off-guard last week with a dive from atop the giant "NXT" letters overlooking the Full Sail Arena. The number one contender was game, but the mind games of the flamboyant Dream saw him stall ringside. Finn finally had enough and took him out with a dive through the ropes, bringing the fight with forearms against the guardrail. A basement dropkick against it saw him bring Dream back in, just for him to bail to the floor again. Finn pursued and connected with a snap suplex on the floor, before rolling Dream back in. The third time was the charm however, as Dream cut him off with a back suplex! Dream stalked Bálor, delivering an insulting slap to incite him before luring him in for a hangman's neckbreaker. "The Purple Rainmaker" focused an attack on Bálor, who looked to fight back just for Dream to cut him off with a spinebuster!
- The Velveteen Dream was looking remarkably like an NXT Superstar of championship calibre, as his flamboyance saw him mock Finn Bálor's signature poses. Setting up for the Famouser, Finn dodged it and struck with a double footstomp! Dream kicked out, but Finn continued with a brainbuster. "The Prince" was counting down the days to meeting Adam Cole for the NXT Championship at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, when Dream caught Finn off-guard - spitting in his face! Finn was taken for a ride with the Dream Valley Driver, but Bálor miraculously kicked out at two. Velveteen was losing patience looking for another, to be hit with the Pelé kick! Bálor went to the top rope for Coup de Grâce, when the Undisputed Era strutted out to the aisleway! Adam Cole relaxed in a chair with a grin on his face, leaving Finn to be crotched by Dream! The 1916 saw Dream use Finn's own finishing move against him, when the Purple Rainmaker connected - providing him with the biggest victory of his young career!

A shocking victory saw the number one contender to the NXT Championship go defeated by the Velveteen Dream. The twenty-five year old had just beaten a former WWE Universal Champion, and even "the Purple Rainmaker" couldn't believe it. Adam Cole spectated with astonishment from the top of the aisle, as the NXT Champion came to his feet and snapped up his steel chair. Murmuring with his fellow members of the Undisputed Era, "the Panama City Playboy" appeared impressed by Dream's win, speaking of it to Roderick Strong and Bobby Fish. Dream posed atop the second rope with a newfound attitude, but continued to motion that he wanted the NXT Championship himself.

✕✕✕

Discussion from Tom Phillips, Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix introduced graphics hyping what was coming up tonight, on a loaded edition of NXT just under three weeks from NXT TakeOver: In Your House. Matt Riddle and his partner to be named would defend the NXT Tag Team Championships in Malcolm Bivens' Enterprise's much-awaited title opportunity; Tommaso Ciampa would battle Killian Dain; and also, "Queen Week" on the USA Network would continue as NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair would present 'Charlotte Flair Appreciation Night' - set to appear later tonight.

'Charlotte Flair Appreciation Night' - NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair appears tonight
NXT Tag Team Championship - Matt Riddle and TBA (c) vs Rinku and Saurav
Tommaso Ciampa vs Killian Dain
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - A-Block - The Brian Kendrick vs Oney Lorcan
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - B-Block - Tony Nese vs Cameron Grimes

A 'Best of the Queen' moment aired, taking us back to NXT back on July 17, 2013. Nearly seven years ago, "the Nature Boy" Ric Flair introduced his daughter Charlotte Flair to the WWE Universe, as she combated and showed signs of early superstardom against a longtime rival of hers, Bayley. Tonight, "the Queen" once again graces the NXT Universe with her presence!

Need-to-Know Basis, Bro
Malcolm Bivens pestered the NXT Tag Team Champion Matt Riddle, ordering him to reveal the identity of his tag team partner. "The King of Bros" refused to say, claiming it was on a need-to-know basis! Annoyed, the man behind Bivens Enterprise said this was a need-to-know basis - he was expected to defend the titles against Rinku and Saurav. Reminding the champ of the petition, whether he had a partner or not was irrelevant: he had to defend the titles! Riddle got ready, questioning if Malcolm had to be here. After the beating his boys gave him two weeks ago, he was lucky he didn't make him cry right there on the locker room floor! Malcolm threatened to sue if Riddle touched him, when Riddle told Bivens he and the world would see later tonight when he beats his two big gorillas. Bivens tried to laugh at the fact Riddle had nobody to help him, but the "Bro" made fun of his hyperactivity: he could suggest a plant guy to mellow him out! It was all chill, because "they" were walking out the NXT Tag Team Champions.

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2) Cameron Grimes (4pts - 2-0) def. Tony Nese (0pts - 0-3) in a B-Block match of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament (7:38) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The time for action was now, as far as "the Premier Athlete" was concerned. Already eliminated from the B-Block of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament, Tony Nese still wished to gain some ground in the running for the vacant gold. Cameron Grimes meanwhile strived to stay in the loop with Kushida ahead of the rivals' match next week. "The Carolina Caveman" got into an aggressive trash-talking session which culminated in fists flying. Nese started hot with a dropdown and a leapfrog, when Grimes dodged a dropkick only to be caught with a legsweep. Nese struck with a rapid succession of kicks, when a German suplex into the corner sent the Southerner out to the floor. Nese teased a topé, but Grimes attempted to hide. Nese then caught him by surprise with a running turning moonsault press over the top rope!
- Tony Nese had Cameron Grimes right where he wanted him with a hurricanrana off the ropes back from the break, when a missile dropkick saw "the Carolina Caveman" cockily walk away to avoid it! Grimes called "the Premier Athlete" a dumbass, before bringing the hurt with rapid stomps in the corner. A Karelin Lift got a near fall, when Grimes continued to demean Nese. Toying with him, Nese fired back with a catching sit-out powerbomb, which Grimes barely kicked out of. Hanging Grimes upside down in the corner, Ab Day was Nese's, striking with kicks while performing ab curls! But as "the Premier Athlete" flexed brashly, Grimes caught him with a roll-up for a near fall. Nese sprung back to his feet, directly into the Cave-In - the checkmate granting Grimes a spotless victory headed into his final match of the block!

Cameron Grimes was primed and ready for his rival Kushida next week, in what was to be the B-Block finals to determine who would go on to NXT TakeOver: In Your House to battle for the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship. "The Carolina Caveman" hollered and laughed at Tony Nese, mocking his winless ways. "The Premier Athlete's" run in the B-Block was over, remaining winless after suffering defeats to the likes of Kushida, Jake Atlas, and now Grimes!

Next week - NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - B-Block Finals - Cameron Grimes vs Kushida

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Shane Thorne and Brendan Vink hung out in a backstage doorway, when past them walked Bronson Reed. The Australians called after their friend, wanting to know why he hadn't been answering their messages. Vink claimed that he and Thorne helped him beat that big ugly creep Dexter Lumis last week, and wanted to know they were cool! "Aus-Zilla" looked at both of them, telling them they were in no discernable way "cool". He didn't need nor want their help last week - he had "the Shadow Walker" beat on his own. Thorne and Vink didn't remember it that way, noting how Dex had him on the verge of eternal slumber in the Silence hold. They urged Bronson to get the boys back together - "the Mighty" could dominate NXT together. Yet, Reed told them they had some good times - but their roots were to remain in the past. Right now, he was on the straight and narrow. Thorne and Vink pursued after him, when from the darkened doorway of another room appeared Dexter Lumis lurking in the shadows!

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Backstage, the Robert Stone Brand were all together and Robert Stone could not be more thrilled. For the first time in history, seemingly, Chelsea Green and Aliyah looked like a formidable team and walked without a sneer or a scowl. Despite that, they were about to find themselves in their toughest fight to date - meeting Rhea Ripley and Shotzi in tag team action, up next.

An advertisement aired, with John Cena narrating the story of Dr. Evan Shannon, a doctor who was doing the country proud during timultuous times by dedicating his time and effort to keeping those around him safe. Charlotte Flair told the story of Jill Cardone, someone working in the emergency department of a hospital. On the front-line, she spent her day-to-day putting other people first and protecting them. Triple H spoke of Lisseth DeGracia, a mom who travelled 1,200 miles from Minnesota to New York City, missing birthdays and holidays to help those in need during the pandemic. "Thank A Hero of Your Own" - WWE was in support of The Real Heroes Project.

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A vignette aired, previewing the arrival of Deonna Purrazzo. In slow-motion, the newcomer battled ropes in the gym of the WWE Performance Center, as she spoke in inner-monologue about her grand debut. Footage of her past efforts were shown, as the tactician noted how she had learned many a lesson in being ousted by what is considered NXT's best - but through learning from experience, Deonna only grew wiser. As Purrazzo punched and kicked a bag, Purrazzo explained her training regimen, how many women would fight physically without even considering her brain. In a chess game, Purrazzo executed a checkmate and smiled, as she talked about how none of the NXT women possessed the intelligence she did. Deonna couldn't wait to show NXT what a TakeOver truly looked like. "The Virtuosa" was coming - debuting in two weeks.

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3) Rhea Ripley and Shotzi def. Chelsea Green and Aliyah (4:49)
- The former NXT Women's Champion was thought to have shocked the NXT Universe two weeks ago, by aligning with the Robert Stone Brand. Instead, it was merely a ploy to try and get her hands on the savvy manager. Robert Stone joined commentary for this match, complaining to Tom Phillips about Rhea Ripley's unprofessionalism. Ripley and Shotzi were still not on the same page after their match last week, and Chelsea Green and Aliyah capitalized by jumping them from behind! With a double suplex for Ripley, the two worked over Shotzi despite "the Batallion's" initial efforts. Shotzi did strike with the reverse Cannonball on Green, but an eyerake saw Aliyah take control. The two women faked tags and choked her behind the referee's back, when an enzuigiri to Chelsea allowed her to tag in Ripley! A brute not to be stopped, Rhea wound up battling both members of the Robert Stone Brand - when Shotzi came in with a Tiger suplex for Aliyah! Rhea planted Green with the Rip Tide to take the three count.

Shotzi was energetic and aggressive in attacking Aliyah even after the match, while Rhea Ripley smiled having beaten the Robert Stone Brand. From the announce position to the left of the rampway, Rhea spotted the hipster talking trash about her, when the former NXT Women's Champion left the ring and made a beeline for Stone! Robert tried to escape, but Rhea tracked him down and had him quartered. Ripley grinned with cruel intentions in store, bringing Robert to question why she wanted to make him suffer! Ripley shrugged, but before grabbing him from behind came both Chelsea and Aliyah! The faces of the Brand put the boots to Ripley before the proud leader, when Shotzi was the cavalry able to run them away. Despite their differences, "the Batallion" and Ripley shared a common interest: Robert Stone.

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A video package aired, recapping the heated and developing rivalry between Tommaso Ciampa and Karrion Kross. Since "the Blackheart" had banished Johnny Gargano from NXT in "One Final Beat" in March, and since "the Herald of Doomsday" had arrived on "the Black and Gold Brand", the two had been at each other's throats. Both had ambushed and assaulted the other, played mind games on one-another, and tried to take the other man out. A graphic then aired, promoting Tommaso Ciampa vs Killian Dain - up next.

A 'Best of the Queen' moment aired, taking us back to the first NXT TakeOver on May 29, 2014. In the finals of a tournament to crown a new NXT Women's Champion, Charlotte Flair and Natalya put on a clinic regarded as one of the greatest women's matches in history, igniting 'the Women's Revolution'. Charlotte was victorious and receive congratulations from her father Ric Flair, and Bret "Hitman" Hart.

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4) Tommaso Ciampa def. Killian Dain (3:51)
- "The Blackheart" was in no mood, yet last week Killian Dain entered his locker room looking for a fight. Tommaso Ciampa came into this brawl with something to prove, taking on the much larger "Beast of Belfast" with haymakers swinging from the get-go. Killian struck back and used his hard-hitting background to slug Ciampa into the corner. Tommaso strived to fire out, only to be sandwiched in the corner by Dain with a splash! From the second rope Dain flew with the Vader Bomb connecting, but Ciampa was able to muscle out at two. Dain decided to step it up a notch, the street fighter hoisting Ciampa up for the Cóiste Bodhar, just for the fearless Ciampa to strike with the Pyscho Kutter! Ciampa followed up with a bridging Fujiwara armbar - somehow managing to make "the Beast" tap out!

Misery Business
Tommaso Ciampa refused to break the bridging Fujiwara armbar after the match, as Killian Dain continued to groan in pain. "The Blackheart" was fully prepared to tear "the Beast of Belfast's" arm out of its socket to send a message, when the lights dimmed. The video screen revealed Karrion Kross sat in an armchair with Scarlett draped seductively across his lap. Expressing while the two undoubtedly had problems, he didn't sense that Ciampa knew his background or why he did what he did. Kross claimed he did it to make other weep. He was good at making people feel something, and he was even better at bringing out the worst in people. Yet what mattered most of all was his own dominance, because when all was said and done, his victims came out feeling weaker - but he was stronger. Ciampa had had enough and took to a microphone from the ring. "The Blackheart" told Kross to be a man and come here and fight, but Scarlett simply laughed.

Climbing up from her man, she told him he would be put out of his misery in due course - but until then, they expected him to wallow in despair. Flashing to footage of Tommaso Ciampa's failures, they included being forced to vacate the NXT Championship; going under the knife with his career-threatening neck injury; and removing Johnny Gargano from NXT at "One Final Beat". Karrion Kross told Ciampa his time was near, and his apocalypse would come if he accepted his challenge for NXT TakeOver: In Your House. Ciampa refused to back down, telling Kross if anybody was to break anybody - he was going to make Karrion unrecognizable on June 7!

NXT TakeOver: In Your House - Karrion Kross vs Tommaso Ciampa

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McKenzie Mitchell was standing by backstage with the Undisputed Era. Bobby Fish was pleased to see McKenzie, complimenting her on her looks. Roderick Strong was in the mood for hyping up the NXT Champion Adam Cole, as he was less than three weeks from another successfully title defense at NXT TakeOver: In Your House - and less than two weeks from achieving one whole year around the sun as NXT Champion! Roddy noted it was on June 1, 2019 when he beat Johnny Gargano to capture the title, and "the Panama City Playboy" was in a league of his own. Adam remarked how nobody could possibly deny how perfect he was. He was the man who had brought NXT to global status; he was the man who had afforded this brand the luxury of being the third brand alongside RAW and SmackDown. Adam Cole was the man who was "the Black and Gold Brand" personified. Cole was about to complete with an emphatic "Adam Cole Bay Bay", when up walked Velveteen Dream!

Holding his finger to Cole's lips, he noted having just beaten his number one contender. If that didn't mean he had earned his shot, he was done questioning what was. Yet what was clear was that the Dream was worthy of an audience with the champ. Fish and Strong tried intimidating Dream, but Cole cooled them off. He had only one thing to tell "the Purple Rainmaker" - "good job, kid".

A graphic aired, promoting the #NXTLoud official theme song for NXT TakeOver: In Your House - "Underneath" by Code Orange, from their latest album, available on Apple and Spotify.

The Devil on His Shoulder
A video package aired, taking a look at the physical specimen that was Dominik Dijakovic. Showing close-ups panning up and across his chiseled body, he stood and he screamed in an abandoned warehouse scene. In voiceover he spoke about his actions last week, betraying Keith Lee - as if he needed to explain it. Since day one of them meeting, their friendship had been preposterous. They had traveled the world fighting, becoming career rivals - but despite never having a rival like "the Limitless One", Dijakovic considered Keith an ego he refused to coexist with. Dominik claimed Lee did not hold power over him, nor did he wish to bring Lee comfort upon hearing his name. He wanted Keith to recognize was Dominik Dijakovic was the name he would never forget - not for their rivalry, but for knowing that he was better than Keith Lee ever could be. Dijakovic wished to challenge Keith Lee to a match next week - and he wished for Keith to do one thing: Feast His Eyes.

Keith Lee stood at the monitor, baffled by the video. "The Limitless One" turned around, to be approached by the NXT North American Champion Damian Priest. With another alternative chick with hands all over him, "the Archer of Infamy" smirked in Keith's direction. He reminisced about the Triple Threat match like it was last week - him ending Keith's reign as champ. Priest had his tattooed mistress smitten, when Lee reminded Priest he never pinned him. Remembering how he never cashed in his rematch clause, Keith proposed the idea of doing so imminently, bringing a scowl to appear on the champ's face. The former champ knew he was the devil on Dominik Dijakovic's shoulder - but what would Dijakovic do when his devil was extinguished? Priest scoffed, he and his damsel leaving. From behind came Dominik Dijakovic with an ambush! A Chokeslam drove Lee through a table, before Dijakovic knelt beside his rival knowingly.

Next week - Dominik Dijakovic vs Keith Lee

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Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch were in their dressing room, the Englishman preparing his tag team partner for his last match of the A-Block in the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament. We had already witnessed Tony Nese go winless in the B-Block against Cameron Grimes earlier tonight, but as Oney and Danny yelled at one-another to psych themselves up, Lorcan was determined to bring the fight to The Brian Kendrick - next.

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An advertisement aired, promoting all of the merchandise available on WWEShop.com.

Shadow-Walk With Me
Bronson Reed appeared unimpressed, as he was once again lectured by Shane Thorne and Brendan Vink about the potential that the Mighty had if they go back together. Not only could they contend for the NXT Tag Team Championships, but "Aus-Zilla's" chances of becoming NXT Champion would be tripled with the boys all back together. Bronson teased the idea, claiming it had been too long since the lads had all gone out on the town. It excited Thorne and Vink, who asked if they could do that tonight. Instead, Reed blew them off - then reminded them to keep the heck out of his business! Walking away, Shane and Brendan complained to each other about how stubborn Bronson was. Thorne turned his back to Vink and monologued his hopes and dreams as an NXT Superstar. Behind his back, Dexter Lumis peered from the shadows and not only grabbed Vink - but he gagged him with his gloved hand, and dragged him away! Thorne finally snapped back to reality to ask for Vink's thoughts - but he was gone!

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5) Oney Lorcan (2pts, 1-2) (with Danny Burch) def. The Brian Kendrick (2pts, 1-2) in an A-Block match of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament (7:13)
- For Oney Lorcan, this tournament was about proving himself as part of the NXT Cruiserweight Division. The hard-nosed brawler looked for his lone win in the A-Block, whereas The Brian Kendrick still hoped to head to the finals - which he would do, should he beat Oney and witness Isaiah "Swerve" Scott beat El Hijo Del Fantasma next week. Lorcan was eager as a hard striking exchange got the match underway. The veteran retreated but Oney rallied with chops and a Lariat, when Kendrick struck with a big boot! Using European uppercuts, Lorcan got a sunset flip for a near fall before using one of his own! With open-hand slaps to Kendrick as he gripped his collarbone. The Half-and-Half suplex saw Kendrick land on his feet, and Captain Hook was attempted, just for Lorcan to roll him up! A German suplex got a near fall as Kendrick's foot landed on the rope. Kendrick fired back and looked for Sliced Bread #2 transitioning into Captain Hook, but Lorcan struck with the Lariat and the Half-and-Half to win the battle!

Danny Burch rushed to the ring and threw his towel into the air, as the cornerman hugged it out and raised the index finger alongside tag team partner Oney Lorcan. The fighting duo celebrated as though Lorcan had won the A-Block, but he had only won his first match in his last outing! Still, Lorcan had beaten The Brian Kendrick, successfully eliminating the wily veteran from the standings.

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NXT Tag Team Champion Matt Riddle flip-flopped through the backstage area, when stopped by McKenzie Mitchell. Hoping to find out who "the King of Bros'" tag team partner would be to substitute Pete Dunne, Riddle saw through McKenzie's sneaky attempt at gaining herself a scoop. Riddle told her "the Bruiserweight" was not being substituted, but rather had a stand-in guy. This guy was a real bro, the life of the party and with a world of personality. He knew Pete would like him - but that's all Mitchell was getting! Besides, Riddle claimed it was all chill anyway, because tonight Malcolm Bivens' gorillas Rinku and Saurav were gonna get knocked out or choked out.

A vignette aired, profiling the two participants who would compete for supremacy over the A-Block of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament next week. Isaiah Scott walked and talked through the weight room of the WWE Performance Center, speaking out about his desires of coming into NXT and being crowned a real champion. Talking about the undeniable status of El Hijo Del Fantasma, "Swerve" claimed he wasn't in it for a participation award. He was here to do the whole damn thing and prove that this was Swerve's House. Meanwhile, sat on a throne in his mansion, El Hijo Del Fantasma rested in his purple mask with two masked gentlemen in suits either side of him. In Spanish with subtitles, he talked about the hustle of "Swerve" - but Fantasma had arrived to become legendary. Vowing to become NXT Interim Cruiserweight Champion, he dared Scott to give him everything he had.

Next week - NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship - A-Block - El Hijo Del Fantasma vs Isaiah Scott

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6) Dakota Kai (with Raquel González) def. Indi Hartwell (1:18)
- "King Kota" showed last week exactly how dangerous she could be, when she knocked her bitter rival Tegan Nox out cold with her gold-plated knee brace. Raquel González stood imposingly at ringside as Dakota Kai prepared for singles competition against WWE Performance Center upstart Indi Hartwell, who impressed with a clothesline and a dropkick before being cut off by the Scorpion Kick from the experienced NXT Superstar. Kota was aggressive sideslam into a backbreaker, before making short work of Hartwell with the use of the Kairopractor.

Karma for 'Kota
Raquel González joined Dakota Kai in the ring, when the gargantuan continued the attack on Indi Hartwell! With rapid stomps in the corner, González sent the WWE Performance Center rookie over the top rope, when "King Kota" took to the microphone. Making it known how dangerous she was, the two of them combined were the most intimidating women in NXT today. Herself and "Big Mami Cool" had proven it countless times against Tegan Nox, and would surely do it again if "the Girl with the Shiniest Wizard" had the audacity to come back for more. Kai found it funny, noting how Tegan just could not respect the fact that Team Kick was dead and gone - never to return! Now they were living in her time, hollering "All Hail 'King Kota'". That's when Tegan Nox came storming down the aisleway, only to be stopped at ringside by the presence of Raquel. Her arms folded, she asked Nox what the move was, when Mia Yim came out moments later!

Throwing herself into combat with Raquel González, Tegan Nox hit the ring and immediately tackled her arch rival. Dakota Kai was getting overwhelmed by Nox, whilst Mia Yim sent González over the guardrail. 'Kota raked her foe's eyes for an advantage, but Kai sidestepped a knee strike from the gold-plated knee brace - and Nox struck with the Shiniest Wizard! Kai was out cold and unresponsive, when Nox raised the leg of her trackpants to reveal her own knee brace. Sweet revenge was Tegan's!

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Two for Two
Bronson Reed was sat in the dressing room drinking a bottle of water, when once again Shane Thorne appeared. To the annoyance of "Aus-Zilla", he told Shane that he had already told he and Brendan Vink he wasn't interested in reforming the Mighty. Their days were over as far as Bronson was concerned, but Thorne appeared frantic. Making it known Vink had disappeared, Reed chuckled and told Shane he just couldn't take no for an answer! Reed got up and told Thorne that if he was a year younger, maybe there was a chance he'd have fallen for that trick - but not today. Bronson wished Thorne the best of luck, but they were done as far as he was concerned! Reed disappeared, as Shane called after him. Desperately asking for his help, suddenly Dexter Lumis came from behind! Cupping Thorne's mouth, Silence befell Thorne - and "the Shadow Walker" dragged the unconscious Australian away.

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A graphic aired, promoting the NXT Tag Team Championship match. Still to come, and moments to wait, Matt Riddle and his tag team partner to be named would defend the gold against Malcolm Bivens' brutes, Rinku and Saurav!

A 'Best of the Queen' moment aired, taking us back to NXT TakeOver: Portland on February 16, 2020. After years performing at a high-level, and revolutionizing the Women's Wrestling industry on Monday Night RAW and Friday Night SmackDown, the 2020 Women's Royal Rumble winner returned to her roots. Charlotte Flair ambushed NXT Women's Champion Rhea Ripley from behind and declared that she would challenge for "the Black and Gold Brand's" title at WrestleMania.

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7) Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher (c) def. Rinku and Saurav (with Malcolm Bivens) to retain the NXT Tag Team Championship (6:21)
- "The King of Bros" arrived with no sign of a tag team partner in sight. The BroserWeights had won the gold back at NXT TakeOver: Portland, but with Pete Dunne absent due to the current climate, Matt Riddle was going solo against Bivens Enterprise. Rinku began with the champ, when he took the Indian down! A roundhouse kick whiffed Rinku when Saurav came in. Riddle shot for a takedown on the powerhouse, when Rinku ambushed him! A double powerbomb took Matt down for a near fall whilst Malcolm Bivens watched nervously from the corner. The champ showed heart on the receiving end of double-team onslaught. Riddle took Saurav down with a jumping knee, and Riddle crawled - but without a partner. Suddenly, Timothy Thatcher stomped to the ring! The hard-nosed mauler ran hot, lighting the Indians up with strikes. when Riddle involved himself, and as Thatcher locked Rinku in the Fujiwara armbar, Riddle slapped Saurav in the BroMission. Malcolm Bivens' goons were forced into submission!

Matt Riddle released the BroMission on Saurav, whilst a maniacal Timothy Thatcher had to be helped off of Rinku with the Fujiwara armbar by "the King of Bros". Both men coming to their feet, the newly-formed tag team came to their feet, as Riddle hugged Thatcher tight! Showing surprise himself that Timothy had made it to NXT, the referee presented the NXT Tag Team Champions with their titles while Malcolm Bivens stood alone at ringside. Dejected and humiliated by Bivens Enterprise's defeat, he let out a big scream of rage! It looked to be back to the drawing board for Malcolm's attempted domination of NXT!

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Ever-Rise were leaving Full Sail University, when McKenzie Mitchell approached them. Matt Martel and Chase Parker bragged about putting in such a hot performance last week against Keith Lee and Dominic Dijakovic how they were given tonight off. McKenzie debated the truthfulness of that statement, reminding the Canadians that they hardly put the work in to beat "the Limitless One" last week. Vexed, Martel and Parker hoped to intimidate McKenzie, questioning her if she wanted a taste! Speaking of taste, Ever-Rise proposed they should go after the NXT Tag Team Championships themselves. Parker verbally harrassed Mitchell asking her how she liked the sound of that, when Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch approached. No love lost for Ever-Rise leaving Lorcan and Burch high and dry for a Bivens Enterprise beating two months ago, the two told Ever-Rise if they wanted a shot they would need to go through them first. The two teams got into a shouting match, when Ever-Rise decided to take a walk.

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Tom Phillips, Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix set the scene for next week's edition of NXT. Through a series of graphics, next week's edition of the show was looking hot, boasting another enticing encounter between Keith Lee and Dominic Dijakovic; the Block finals of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship tournament; plus, Rhea Ripley would take on both Aliyah and Chelsea Green - and if Ripley won, she would reportedly get two minutes alone with Robert Stone!

Keith Lee vs Dominic Dijakovic
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - A-Block Finals - Isaiah Scott vs El Hijo Del Fantasma
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - B-Block Finals - Kushida vs Cameron Grimes
Rhea Ripley vs Aliyah and Chelsea Green - if Ripley wins, she gets two minutes alone with Robert Stone.

Meanwhile, 'Charlotte Flair Appreciation Night' was moments away. Charlotte Flair had finally arrived and sported a dashing silver blazer over a black-and-white dress. The NXT Women's Championship was draped over her shoulder, as "the Queen" was headed for Full Sail Arena - up next!

A replay aired, recapping the shocking scene earlier tonight when the Undisputed Era's sudden arrival in the midst of a match pitting Finn Bálor against Velveteen Dream saw "the Purple Rainmaker" pull off a huge victory against the number one contender to Adam Cole's NXT Championship. Then, an interview with the Undisputed Era would see Velveteen Dream fearlessly confront "the Panama City Playboy" - who could only congratulate the Dream on his win.

A graphic aired, revealing breaking news as tweeted by the NXT General Manager William Regal! After scoring such a landmark and unprecedented victory, the Englishman decreed that the Velveteen Dream had earned his way into the NXT Championship match at NXT TakeOver: In Your House! After being denied an opportunity for months on end by "the Panama City Playboy", as posted on Twitter, Dream would finally have his shot. The NXT Championship match on June 7 was now a Triple Threat match - pitting him against both Finn Bálor, and Adam Cole!
Tom Phillips, Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix began to talk about NXT TakeOver: In Your House. Live on the WWE Network in just under three weeks on Sunday, June 7, the line-up was already boasting some major matches - especially with the news that had just broke!

NXT Championship - Triple Threat match - Adam Cole (c) vs Finn Bálor vs Velveteen Dream (NEW!)
Karrion Kross vs Tommaso Ciampa
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals - A-Block winner vs B-Block winner

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Arrival of a New Challenger
Full Sail Arena became the scene for 'Charlotte Flair Appreciation Night'. What the NXT Women's Champion had cockily pronounced "Queen's Week" on the USA Network, Charlotte Flair strutted out to the aisleway with the title held in her arms. Presenting the gold proudly, footage took us back to Monday Night RAW this past week, where Charlotte would defend the gold for the very first time in the main event against Bianca Belair. In the ring, "the Queen" spoke directly to the NXT Universe at home, telling them how it was incredible what a woman of her calibre could accomplish. She told of how it was unmistakable just how good she was, that she was generational and rightfully so. What she had accomplished inside of six months was something barely any other women can accomplish in a year - or even five years! Flair recapped her 2020, recounting of how she won the 2020 Women's Royal Rumble match - but how her love for "the Black and Gold Brand" brought her back home.

The NXT Women's Champion said while NXT made her, Charlotte Flair then made NXT. She proved that by becoming a multiple-time Women's Champion. She led the 'Women's Revolution', and was the first to headline WrestleMania. Flair claimed there would never be another Charlotte Flair, questioning who her closest successor was. It couldn't be Rhea Ripley, nor Candice LeRae; Bianca Belair was yesterday's news. Flair unveiled a video package that showed of her triumphs, taking us to the video screen. After showing the best of "the Queen", she stood in the ring and told the NXT Universe she was proud to be their leader, their champion, and their "Queen" - but then, the lights went out. Io Shirai came out, a smirk on her face! Having not been seen since April due to injury, "the Genius of the Sky" had returned to NXT - and came strutting down to the ring. Jumping into the ring, Io stared Charlotte in the face - and even Flair was smiling! Shirai wanted to be next in line for an NXT Women's Championship opportunity!

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NXT INTERIM CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

PTS	A-BLOCK	B-BLOCK	PTS
4 [2-0]	El Hijo Del Fantasma	Kushida	4 [2-0]
2 [1-1]	Isaiah Scott	Cameron Grimes	4 [2-0]
2 [1-2]	Oney Lorcan	Jake Atlas	2 [1-2]
2 [1-2]	The Brian Kendrick	Tony Nese	0 [0-3]

DTP · Nov 28, 2022

NXT TakeOver: In Your House - June 7, 2020
Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida
"Underneath" by Code Orange

LESS THAN THREE WEEKS AWAY!

NXT CHAMPIONSHIP
Finn Bálor vs Adam Cole (c) vs Velveteen Dream

Tommaso Ciampa vs Karrion Kross

NXT INTERIM CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
A-Block Winner vs B-Block Winner

More to be announced!

DTP · Dec 1, 2022

Friday Night SmackDown #1083 – May 22, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by

LESS THAN THREE WEEKS FROM BACKLASH!

205 Live #180 – May 22, 2020
- Akira Tozawa def. Jake Atlas with the deadlift German suplex. Tozawa showed respect to Atlas afterwards. (8:11)
- Isaiah Scott def. Tyler Breeze with the Swerve Stomp. "Swerve" declared he would win the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament afterwards. (6:37)

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A video package aired, showing the proud and patriotic history of the United States military. As President Ronald Reagan said, "they didn't volunteer to die, they volunteered to defend values". With acts of selflessness, courage and honor, the veterans had the WWE's support as they honored them all this Memorial Day weekend.

The opening video package aired, bringing us to the WWE Performance Center. Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed us to Friday Night SmackDown on FOX - tonight boasting a marquee night, kicking off with an all-star eight-man tag team elimination match that was sure to give NBA fans their fill in the absence of this year's Playoffs!

8-Man Tag Team Elimination match - WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy, Daniel Bryan, Drew Gulak and TBA vs Sheamus, WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura and Cesaro
Bayley and Sasha Banks Celebrate "Greatness"
No-Disqualification match - Dolph Ziggler vs Tucker
Fifteen Minutes of Fame - SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz vs Lucha House Party

Sheamus proudly posed on the rampway with the three members of the Artist Collective in tow. WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn strutted and jived down to the ring after shaking hands with "the Celtic Warrior", whilst Shinsuke Nakamura and Cesaro all appeared to be on the same page. After the beating issued to Jeff Hardy last week, the question remained: who would be the fourth man on Team Hardy? Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak made their arrival first, walking out to ringside before pausing for the WWE Universal Champion. Jeff Hardy had the warpaint on, but after making a quick walk to join Bryan and Gulak, he paused and signalled for the fourth man to reveal himself... Apollo Crews! One week on from coming up unsuccessful in the 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' opportunity for he and Shorty G, and one month removed from his memorable first-round match with Bryan in the WWE Universal Championship Tournament, Apollo looked to put his name on the map tonight!

1) Sheamus, WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura and Cesaro def. WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy, Daniel Bryan, Drew Gulak and Apollo Crews in an 8-Man Elimination Tag Team match (30:05) [THROUGH FOUR BREAKS]
- The arrangement in place between Sheamus and the Artist Collective led to a rebellion from Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak last week, in response to a set-up on WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy. Apollo Crews' addition came as a surprise, as he hit the ring looking to make a name for himself. An eight-man battle broke down quickly to Apollo and Cesaro, as "the Swiss Cyborg" looked to begin with European uppercuts just to receive a hurricanrana followed up with a military press! The standing moonsault was attempted, but the European would escape to his corner. Shinsuke Nakamura looked to try his luck only for Daniel Bryan to make the tag, and the two former training partners met up in a brief sparring contest. Sami Zayn tried to involve himself, when Bryan resorted to striking with kicks! "The Yes Man" teamed with his current training partner Drew Gulak in double-teaming Cesaro in the corner.
- Shinsuke Nakamura missed a knee drop on "the Militant Mat-Mite", allowing him to come firing back with a series of palm strikes. One stunned "the Artist", and in came Jeff Hardy! The WWE Universal Champion used an axe handle from the second rope, followed by a legdrop to the groin! "The Charismatic Enigma" was sidetracked by Sheamus in a verbal exchange, which allowed Sami Zayn to sneak in with a chop block! The Artist Collective focused their assault on the champ's leg, though an enzuigiri stunned Nakamura. Drew Gulak tagged in having averted a gutwrench suplex from Cesaro, bombarding him with a series of slaps in the corner. Little did he know "the Swiss Cyborg" had tagged out - and Sheamus struck with the Brogue Kick to eliminate Drew Gulak in 8:27. Apollo Crews entered fearless against "the Celtic Warrior" when Cesaro tagged in. A springboard uppercut saw Crews sidestep, and Cesaro rushed into the Chariot - Apollo evening the odds eliminating Cesaro in 9:31!
- Apollo Crews brought the fight to Shinsuke Nakamura, able to sidestep Nakamura's wheelkick and connect with a wheelbarrow suplex! The running shooting star press landed, when Sheamus ambushed him. Jeff Hardy tried to aid him, but the referee disallowed it - leaving "the Celtic Warrior", "the Great Liberator" and "the Artist" to pick the bones. Nakamura had fun at the expense of Crews, but Apollo came back with a surprising spinebuster for a near fall, when Shin tagged out to Sheamus. Crews refused to give up as the Celt blocked Apollo from the WWE Universal Champion and Daniel Bryan. Sheamus prepared the Brogue Kick, when Sami Zayn came strutting in! Full of confidence, he taunted Bryan but the Helluva Kick saw Apollo catch him with the Chariot - Nakamura able to break it up with the Kinshasa! Sami Zayn was draped over him, eliminating Apollo Crews in 16:23. Sheamus trash talked Jeff, now realizing Sheamus, Sami and Shinsuke had them outnumbered!
- Daniel Bryan sprung out of the corner with a backflip, catching Sheamus with a clothesline! "The Yes Man" looked for a second, when "the Celtic Warrior" blocked it with an Irish Curse backbreaker. The Irishman chuckled, sharing him with Sami Zayn. "The Great Liberator" put the boots to his nemesis, daring to slap him. The WWE Intercontinental Champion incensed Bryan, who refused to react to the slaps - and suddenly responded with some stiff slaps of his own! A Regalplex led to Bryan applying the Romero Special - but Nakamura was there to break it up. Jeff Hardy evened it up, and soonafter Sheamus got involved. Bryan sent Sami Zayn running to the floor, when Bryan soared through the ropes with a dive! Kicking away at Sami against the barricade, Zayn escaped but Bryan continued after him. The brawl saw both Daniel Bryan and Sami Zayn eliminated in 23:51! As two officials ran out to escort Bryan from the arena, he looked back at Jeff Hardy - the WWE Universal Champion all alone now!
- Jeff Hardy was the remaining man for his team, against the numbers advantage of Sheamus and Shinsuke Nakamura. The WWE Universal Champion did what he always did and fought valiantly, resilient against the Landslide of "the King of Strong Style" and catching him with flying forearm! A spinout enzuigiri caught Sheamus, who responded with a stiff forearm. Sheamus looked for the Celtic Cross, but Hardy reversed into a sunset flip for a near fall. "The Celtic Warrior" reset, but Hardy caught him with the Twist of Fate! Nakamura slipped in, but Jeff saw him coming and struck with a Twist of Hate. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" returned to Sheamus, shedding his shirt and heading to the top rope. What Jeff did not see was Shinsuke Nakamura make a blind tag however, and the Swanton Bomb landed! Jeff covered, but the referee argued the Irishman wasn't legal. As Hardy came to his feet, Nakamura came from behind with Kinshasa - and achieved a pinfall victory over the WWE Universal Champion in 30:05!

Shinsuke Nakamura knelt over the beaten WWE Universal Champion, a cocky grin appearing on the mouthpiece-clad face of "the Artist". Jeff Hardy was down and out, and the Artist Collective member had recorded a pinfall victory. Nakamura shrugged off the referee's attempt to raise his hand, instead choosing to celebrate alone. Sheamus came to, initially raising his fists in victory as though he did it - but "the Celtic Warrior" soon grew furious with the knowledge of what happened! The winners clashed as Sheamus and Nakamura argued over the outcome of this match, the Irishman stating this wasn't what he and the Collective had agreed upon! Nakamura shrugged it off, choosing to leave the ring in grandiose fashion.

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Following the double count-out decision which removed both Sami Zayn and Daniel Bryan from the eight-man tag team elimination match, the two continued their conflicts in the backstage area. "The Yes Man" was still being restrained by the two referees, whilst the WWE Intercontinental Champion called him a crybaby. Sick and tired of Daniel's garbage, "the Great Liberator" boldly claimed he could beat Bryan anytime any place. This brought Daniel to stomp towards Sami, daring him to put his title on the line and prove that. But instead, Sami declined claiming he had better things to do!

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A vignette aired, showing a mysterious hooded figure in a computer room. Surrounded by monitors, the anonymous entity's voice was electronically modified to protect the user's identity, as he spoke about how lies had swept the WWE - but they would not remain that way for much longer. Bit by bit, the lies would be exposed and the truth would prevail. Footage on the monitors revealed John Morrison and The Miz; Dolph Ziggler and Sonya Deville; the Artist Collective; and Bayley and Sasha Banks - all targets of this anonymous man. Dial-up connections were heard, as text appeared on-screen reading "the Truth Will Be Heard".

A replay aired, taking us back to the dramatic conclusion of the eight-man tag team elimination match moments ago where Shinsuke Nakamura scored a pinfall victory against the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy. Backstage, Shinsuke Nakamura and Cesaro discussed "the Artist's" win, with the European claiming that Shin was doing the Artist Collective proud. The mood changed when Sheamus arrived, still vexed to have been usurped by the group. The Irishman repeated that it wasn't what the two sides agreed upon, and that it was he who should have prounced "the Charismatic Enigma". Cesaro got in his face and claimed that things changed, and so did time. "The Swiss Cyborg" maintained how Shin beat Jeff tonight - something "the Celtic Warrior" couldn't do! Sheamus cooled off, reminding Cesaro of a little thing called "honor" - but he shot back claiming that loyalty was lost when Sheamus abandoned the Bar for greener pasture. Sheamus scoffed, leaving the room.

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Following discussion from Michael Cole and Corey Graves, a replay aired recapping the main event from last week on Friday Night SmackDown. We crowned new WWE Women's Tag Team Champions, as Bayley and Sasha Banks became two-time champs with a vital assist from none other than Tamina Snuka! Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross's title reign had come to an end, as "Bayley 2 Belts" and "the Legit Boss" triumphed. Tonight, the Boss 'n' Hug Connection would host a party like the WWE Performance Center had never seen before - the two celebrating "greatness" in the ring.

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Sonya Deville walked the hall backstage, when caught up to by Dolph Ziggler. "The Show Off" was agitated, having been left on read by her for the past week. He thought the two had great chemistry and questioned what happened to their great scheme. Deville turned to him annoyed, reminding him of how their plans failed. Not only did Dolph strike out with Mandy Rose, but they tried to sabotage Otis and Mandy's relationship - and once again, Dolph blew it. Aggravated, Ziggler claimed he wasn't the only one - but now he had to take on Tucker in a No-Disqualification match! Washing her hands of all involvement, Sonya innocently told Dolph what came around went around, but assured him she would be ringside for the match - but on commentary. As Sonya wished him luck and left, Ziggler called after her, claiming he didn't care and that tonight, he would finish what he started and beat Tucker one-on-one!

Meanwhile, Heavy Machinery finished psyching one-another up ahead of the No-Disqualification match. Tucker had been made an example of by Dolph Ziggler last month in a backstage attack, but made his return last week. Out for revenge, Otis accompanied "Tucky" down the hall. "The Blue Collar Boys" appeared determined, as the No-Disqualification match was coming up next.

A graphic aired, in memorium of the late former WWE Superstar Shad Gaspard, 1981-2020, who was tragically washed ashore on Wednesday at the age of 39.

The 'Progressive Match-Flo' aired, taking us back to last week. Otis and Mandy Rose were victorious against Dolph Ziggler and Sonya Deville in mixed tag team competition, though "the Show Off" refused to take the "L" laying down. Ziggler jumped Otis as Sonya ambushed her friend Mandy, when all of a sudden Tucker made his return to Friday Night SmackDown. Making the save for his best friend and his "Precious Peach", "Tucky" was back and looking for revenge on the man who took him out.

2) Tucker def. Dolph Ziggler in a No-Disqualification match (8:59) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Sonya Deville joined commentary to spectate "the Show Off" against one-half of "the Blue Collar Boys", as she continued to profess innocence amidst the failed scheme against her former friend Mandy Rose and Otis. Sonya continued to claim no affiliation with Dolph Ziggler but hoped he would "be better", whilst further insulting the audacity of "the Golden Goddess" for walking out on Fire & Desire.
- Otis remained backstage as Tucker made his arrival, when Dolph Ziggler looked to ambush him from behind again! "The Show Off" had previously done the same over one month ago, but this time "the Blue Collar Boy" saw it coming. Tucker brought the fight to Ziggler, battling him down the rampway to ringside. Into the steel steps, haymakers flew with Tucker giving Ziggler what had been coming to him! From under the ring came kendo sticks and trash cans, as Tucker clapped two steel lids against the head of "the Show Off". Tucker continued when Ziggler was able to use the trash can against the Heavy Machinery member, just for ten punches in the corner to go reversed into a running sit-out powerbomb! Tucker continued by unleashing with kendo sticks shots on Ziggler, with sweet revenge in the process of being accomplished.
- Tucker punished Dolph Ziggler while Otis watched backstage hand-in-hand with Mandy Rose. Dolph Ziggler escaped the ring, when Tucker barreled from the apron with a missed cannonball! "The Show Off" opportunistically stomped delivered to "Tucky", leading to clenched fists flying. Placing a trash can over Tucker, Dolph dove from the apron with an elbow drop, when back inside a sleeper hold took over. "The Blue Collar Boy" muscled him back up and fought him off, delivering a catching suplex onto the seat of a steel chair for a near fall! Tucker went to the top rope but missed a splash, and Dolph saw his chance. The Super Kick was lined up - but suddenly the video screen flickered. Cutting to CCTV-captured footage of "the Show Off" hanging out alone at a bar, Dolph found a girl to hit on - but promptly struck out with her! The girl left him to drink his drink alone, and the footage left Ziggler baffled. The Hacker had struck again, when Tucker struck with the trapping suplex through a trash can for the win!

The Combustion of Fire & Desire
Tucker took revenge against Dolph Ziggler, afforded to him by the help from whomever "The Hacker" was! At the announce table Sonya Deville looked to depart claiming to have seen enough. Deville believed it was time to move on to greener pasture - but instead, out came Mandy Rose! "The Golden Goddess" came to ringside, confronting her once-best friend for the harsh comments. Face-to-face, Sonya disparaged Mandy, claiming they could have had the world, but she wanted to go on and become Otis's side-b*tch! Deville turned to leave, but Rose grabbed her by the arm and said they weren't finished. Sonya swung, but Mandy caught it and the two spilled to the floor! The two women took down one another, until officials thankfully rushed to the scene on a busy night for the two! Tucker came down to ringside to try and restrain Mandy, when Otis came jogging down to calm down his "Precious Peach". The bitter rivalry between Fire & Desire was only escalating further!

A replay aired, recapping the chaotic scene ringside as Mandy Rose confronted Sonya Deville at the announce table. While Tucker was victorious in his No-Disqualification match against Dolph Ziggler, "the Golden Goddess's" differences with Sonya continued as a brawl commenced until being broken up by Heavy Machinery. A graphic soon aired, as the match had been made official for Backlash on June 14 - Fire & Desire, going one-on-one!

Backlash - Mandy Rose vs Sonya Deville

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A disclaimer graphic aired on-screen, warning that the comments made by the Forgotten Sons momentarily did not represent the views of the WWE.

The Forgotten Sons Address The New Day
A video package aired showing footage of soldiers in combat. The Forgotten Sons spoke in the shadows about Memorial Day, how after all the battles humankind mustered up throughout its' history, they had honored the good men and women who served to protect. From the shadows stepped Wesley Blake, questioning what about them. They too were veterans of conflict, and heroes of war - but the United States of America neglected them. Steve Cutler said they were much more than their body of work, and how all they ever wanted was respect. They left the military behind in pursuit of the American dream - but there was no dream to be had. They were each cast aside...so they chose to do something about it. Between them stepped Jaxson Ryker into the light with the pipe in hand. Ryker said everybody loved the New Day, but what about them? Enough was enough - this New Day would be theirs. Next week, when they ended this dispute with Kofi Kingston and Big E, they would be Forgotten No More!

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The New Day stood at the monitor trying to understand the video package from the Forgotten Sons. Kayla Braxton approached Big E and Kofi Kingston for a response, as Kofi joked how they did not know what to make of that. From what was understood, Jaxson Ryker, Wesley Blake and Steve Cutler each wanted to be remembered - so they wanted to step on the toes of the New Day. Big E said that the trio had got their attention, and Kofi had the goose egg on the back of his head to prove it from their lead pipe. Kofi claimed nobody had forgotten anything Ryker, Blake or Cutler had done for this country - but the truth was they were in NXT for so long because they weren't ready for the big time. Big E stated that no lead pipe would save them next week, because this time around the New Day were gonna send them right back to the old 'Coconut Loop' in Florida! Kofi declared that next week, New Day were going to rock their work.

Next week - The New Day vs The Forgotten Sons

A trailer aired, promoting the next episode of 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride'. The third episode of the documentary series, "Chapter 3: The End of an Era" premieres this Sunday, exclusive on the WWE Network.

The King's Vengeance
Drew Gulak had his taped shoulder unwrapped by the medic in the trainer's office, conversing with him about how much better it felt, having competed in his first match back tonight. "The Militant Mat-Mite" was given a moment as the trainer left to grab him some pain relief, when King Corbin hit the scene - blasting Gulak with a big right hand! Drew tried to fight back after choking the King out last week in the Gu-Lock, but Corbin proceeded to hammer on the shoulder of Gulak. In revenge for last week, Corbin sent Gulak over the trainer's table, flipping it on top of him. Corbin ran his mouth, asking Gulak how he liked that! Much like backstage at Money in the Bank, Corbin had left Gulak hurting.

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Returning inside the WWE Performance Center, SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz stood prepared for another 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' challenge, as "the Shaman of Sexy" bragged about their win last week against Apollo Crews and Shorty G. "The A-Lister" admired Apollo's remorsefulness for trying to protect his own dignity - but the guy could not catch a break! JoMo chimed in joking about Crews' failed efforts to be the savior for WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy earlier tonight - but on the topic of protecting their own dignity, tonight they were up against Lucha House Party. Miz questioned who Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado ever beat, making fun at the expense of Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura! Morrison referenced Nacho Libre and said tonight they were going to master lucha-libre quicker than Jack Black ever could, because they were the most must-see tag team in the WWE today - Be Jealous! Finally, Lucha House Party interrupted 'the Dirt Sheet' co-hosts' parade.

3) SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz def. Lucha House Party in a 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' match (10:19) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The SmackDown Tag Team Champions were interested in proving they were the most winningest tag team in the WWE today, and proved it in the return of the 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' match last week against Apollo Crews and Shorty G, but this week took up the challenge made by Lucha House Party. Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado wished to prove their worth for a shot at the titles, running hot to begin with. The champs were sent running, when Gran Metalik teased a topé just to have the Miz evade it. They pursued ringside, when John Morrison took a dive of his own with a turning moonsault over the top rope catching Dorado! Suddenly Metalik joined the foray, with a senton atomico taking out everybody!
- Lucha House Party fought the SmackDown Tag Team Champions with 10:50 remaining on the clock, when Lince Dorado's springboard armdrag saw the Miz crotch him on the top rope. John Morrison came in sectioning off the ring from Metalik, as a double spinebuster gave "the A-Lister" a near fall. Further illegal moves took place behind the referee's back, as "the Shaman of Sexy" decided to slap Dorado around. Morrison connected with a Spanish fly to cut "the Golden Lynx" off, but when Starship Pain was executed, Lince got his boot up low-blowing JoMo! Metalik tagged in and struck with a springboard crossbody. A rope-walk hurricanrana caught Miz, looking to evade another topé to be caught with a springboard second-rope topé! Time was ticking, as Metalik caught Morrison in la magistral. Both traded pinning combinations as Miz tagged in. Dorado attempted the Golden Rewind - but a sunset flip saw Miz grasp Morrison's hands through the ropes - ending Lucha House Party's pursuits with 4:39 remaining!

The Miz ran for the hills as Gran Metalik raced back into the ring. Unfortunately for Lucha House Party, it was too late as for a second week in a row, the SmackDown Tag Team Champions had won the 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame'. There would be no title opportunity for Metalik and Lince Dorado, much like there was no shot for Apollo Crews and Shorty G last week. "The A-Lister" clung to "the Shaman of Sexy" on the rampway with a big hug, as the co-hosts of 'the Dirt Sheet' celebrated with their gold.

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The Fighting Champion
The WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy patted Apollo Crews on the shoulder for his helping hand in the eight-man tag team elimination match earlier tonight, when Sarah Schreiber arrived to interview the champ. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" admitted that he did not come out victorious earlier tonight, but it wasn't for a lack of trying. Much like the mini-documentary series on him had shown, he had spent his entire life fighting. He never gave up, and what it took was a cheap trick from Shinsuke Nakamura to take him out with the Kinshasa. Yet he was man enough to admit "the Artist" beat him. Jeff said when he became champ, he took an oath to himself that he would be a fighting champion. Hardy laid out the challenge to "the King of Strong Style" for next week - with the WWE Universal Championship on the line. "The Charismatic Enigma" proclaimed the result next week would be mighty different.

Next week - WWE Universal Championship - Jeff Hardy (c) vs Shinsuke Nakamura

John Morrison and The Miz gloated having proven they were the most must-see tag team in WWE, when Kayla Braxton approached the SmackDown Tag Team Champions. "The A-Lister" claimed they were unbeatable, while "the Shaman of Sexy" listed their wins against Apollo Crews and Shorty G, and Lucha House Party. Miz added how they also sent the Usos packing, and ended all hope the New Day had of beating them for the titles. Miz bragged there was no team that could beat them...when Heavy Machinery appeared. Confronting the two, Miz told them not to get any ideas! Otis claimed he and "Tucky" were hungry, but Miz reminded the two of how Otis blew it in their last match - all because Otis was a hot-headed barbarian who couldn't control his temper. The two humorously bickered back and forth, when JoMo suddenly accepted the challenge! Tucker claimed next week they would pass 'the Fifteen Minutes of Fame' and earn themselves a shot. Miz was left to ask Morrison what he was doing!

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Michael Cole and Corey Graves discussed Friday Night SmackDown next week, and how it looked as star-studded as the line-up tonight. Not only was Jeff Hardy scheduled to defend the WWE Universal Championship against Shinsuke Nakamura, but the New Day would look for revenge against the Forgotten Sons. The challenge went accepted moments ago - Heavy Machinery would try John Morrison and The Miz's 'the Fifteen Minutes of Fame'. Plus, next week would mark the return of WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle! What would the Olympic Gold Medalist have to say to the WWE Universe?

WWE Universal Championship - Jeff Hardy (c) vs Shinsuke Nakamura
Kurt Angle returns to Friday Night SmackDown
The New Day vs The Forgotten Sons
Fifteen Minutes of Fame - SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz vs Heavy Machinery

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Having Your Cake and Eating It, Too
The ring was decked out in gold carpeting across the canvas and silver tinsel, ahead of the Boss 'n' Hug Connection's party. After capturing the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship last week from Alexa Bliss and Bayley, out walked Bayley practically dripping in gold, as she lived her best life alongside best friend and confidante, Sasha Banks. The new champs strutted down to the ring, where "the Legit Boss" declared that there were new champs in town, and they were the greatest friends in the WWE today! Sasha talked herself and Bayley up, how they had come into WWE as mortal enemies - but had looked past the gritty ugliness of a competitive rivalry in favor of an even greater friendship! Through it all, there was nobody who knew her like Bayley did, and there was nobody alive she trusted more than her BFF. Sasha graced the WWE Universe watching at phone for her partner to speak for the first time since becoming a double champ - before handing over the mic.

A smile creeped onto the face of her as she remarked that "Bayley 2 Belts" had arrived! The SmackDown Women's Champion wished to speak about "greatness", and how what the two of them had been able to accomplish over the course of the past year was nothing short of that very term. Not only had she been in charge of the SmackDown Women's Division for the better part of a full calendar year, but she had the honor of being joined at the top by none other than her partner-in-crime. There were many things that came to mind when discussing Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross - but what they were truly mad about was the fact that "Little Miss Bliss" and "Naughty Nikki" were not even close to the BFFs herself and Sasha claimed to be. They proved that last week when they demolished the competition, much like they always did - but in doing so, they weren't alone. Sasha gloated about the Boss 'n' Hug Connection having a third party involved, bringing out "the Bouncer" Tamina.

With a blank facial expression, "the Islander" stomped down to the ring in all-leather to fold her arms and stand imposingly behind the new champs. Bayley patted Tamina on the shoulder, bragging about how there was nobody tougher than "the Bouncer" in the WWE. Sasha Banks added how Tamina had seen the light after some reservations about the greatness the two of them possessed - and that was fine, but they were running Friday Night SmackDown. "Bayley 2 Belts" spun the narrative claiming they didn't need Tamina to have their back - and so if anything, they were doing "the Islander" a favor by keeping her employed! It paid to have strong allies, and that's what they did last week when Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross ate the Boss 'n' Hug Connection's dust. Sasha spoke about how this was a party to celebrate their big title win, and wished to introduce a big surprise for Bayley. Having Tamina blindfold the SmackDown Women's Champion, Bayley claimed her birthday wasn't for another three weeks.

But "the Legit Boss" had something perfect arranged for her best friend - as a caterer came out to ringside, wheeling a huge cake bearing the SmackDown Women's Champion's face! Sasha Banks and Tamina carefully guided Bayley through the ropes and down the ring steps, as "Bayley 2 Belts" voiced her excitement. "The Legit Boss" ordered Bayley not to peek, when all of a sudden out to the stage walked Lacey Evans! Sasha's jaw dropped in concern, but she would save-face on account of her best friend. Sasha ordered Tamina to take care of it, as "the First Lady" confronted Tamina fearlessly with elbows exchanged on the aisleway. Sasha protected Bayley using herself and the caterer, continuign to make small-talk - but as Lacey kicked the leg from under "the Bouncer", she would reach over the barricade and blind Tamina using foam from a concealed fire extinguisher! Bayley was growing impatient but Sasha ordered she hang on just a few more moments - before using the caterer as a human shield!

"The Legit Boss" shoved the caterer in Lacey Evans' path, but "the First Lady" would catch the caterer before contact - before racing after Sasha Banks! With Sasha leaping over the barricade, the SmackDown Women's Champion blindly wandered around the ringside area. Lacey had "Bayley 2 Belts" all to herself now - and stood behind Bayley long enough for the champ to feel the trim of her dress. Calling out for Sasha and Tamina, Bayley raised her blindfold and glanced behind her...to see Lacey Evans smile back at her! The double-champ tried to scram but was snatched by the seat of her pants when she tried to run. Lacey hoisted her onto her shoulders in a fireman's carry, dropping Bayley face-first into the icing of the cake bearing Bayley's own likeness! Covered in icing, Bayley was struck with the Woman's Right! Sasha watched in terror, as Lacey wiped Bayley's face and took a lick of icing from her fingertip - "the First Lady" still after the SmackDown Women's Championship.

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DTP · Dec 7, 2022

WWE Backlash 2020 - June 14, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"Destiny Calls"
"Watch Me Now" by Kevin Rudolf

LESS THAN THREE WEEKS AWAY!

RAW WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP
Asuka (c) vs Shayna Baszler

Mandy Rose vs Sonya Deville

Matches to be announced.

DTP · Dec 7, 2022

Ex-WWE star Shad Gaspard found dead after going missing while swimming with son
The wrestler went missing on Sunday afternoon while swimming with his 10-year-old son at Venice Beach in Los Angeles.

May 20, 2020

By Minyvonne Burke and Diana Dasrath

Former WWE wrestler Shad Gaspard was found dead Wednesday morning after he went missing while swimming with his son at Venice Beach over the weekend, police said.

A person at the beach found the body along the shoreline around 1:25 a.m., according to the Los Angeles Police Department. An investigator with the coroner’s office confirmed the body was Gaspard's, and the wrestler's family has been notified, police said.

In a statement on Wednesday, the WWE said it was saddened to learn about his death and "extends its condolences to Gaspard’s family, friends and fans."

Gaspard, 39, went missing Sunday afternoon while swimming with his 10-year-old son at Venice Beach in Los Angeles.

He was about 50 yards offshore when a lifeguard saw that a "wave had crashed over Mr. Shad Gaspard and he was swept out to sea," the Los Angeles Police Department said in a statement on Tuesday.

Gaspard's son was found and did not require treatment at a hospital.

Chief Ken Haskett, with the fire department's Lifeguard Section, told NBC News that the lifeguard tried to pull Gaspard and his son to safety.

"He was going to try to rescue both," he said. "But the father, in his last few words, said, 'Save my son.' "

Gaspard pushed his son to the lifeguard, before "he got pushed back down under a wave, and that's the last he's been seen," Haskett said.

The wrestler was part of the WWE team Cryme Tyme and, since he stopped wrestling, he has pursued an acting career, according to NBC Los Angeles. He appeared in the movies "Get Hard" and "Think Like A Man Too," and the television shows "Big Time Rush" and "Key and Peele," among others.

Before joining the WWE, Gaspard played basketball at Georgia Perimeter College and was a bodyguard for Britney Spears, Mike Tyson and Sean "Diddy" Combs, the wrestling organization said in a statement. He also created his own graphic novel.

Gaspard was "admired by friends and colleagues for his warmth and humor" and "was no stranger to heroic deeds," the WWE said, noting that in 2016 he broke up an armed robbery in Florida and pinned the suspect to the ground until police arrived.

Jennifer L. Wolfson, Gaspard's publicist, remembered him as "one of the most wonderful people you could ever meet."

"He was so kind and respectful to everyone he came across," she said. "The world does a lot of wrong things quite often but this feels like a pretty low blow ... He was truly a real-life hero and almost all of his actions reflect that even until the end."

Many of the wrestler's former colleagues took to Twitter to express their condolences.

"I join fans around the world as we remember Shad Gaspard as a beloved performer and a caring father," Triple H tweeted. "In absolutely tragic circumstances, please keep his loved ones in your thoughts."

WWE wrestler Titus O'Neil wrote, "My Love, Thoughts, Prayers and Support Go out to The Family of Shad Gaspard. Nothing will ever Fix the loss of a loved one. As a Universe We owe it to ourselves and to others to Be a Positive Light in this world as long as we can Because Nothing is Ever Guaranteed."

Gaspard's wife, Siliana Gaspard, released a statement on Tuesday calling him a fighter with a "magical soul."

"We are hoping and praying for his safe return. As a family we thank you all for your concern and well wishes. Please continue to keep sending your positivity and prayers to our beloved Shad," she wrote on Instagram.

MAY 25, 2020 OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: DEATH OF SHAD GASPARD, MORE

- The cameo appearance by Heath Slater on the 5/18 RAW is newsworthy for the fact that he has not as of press time been resigned here. Slater was one of the many talent cuts last month, though was contacted over the weekend once the idea for this angle came about. On such short notice, due to living local to the Performance Center, Slater decided to participate but is not expected back. With how most involved raved about his performance, certainly things could change if the interest is there on both sides.

- Timothy Thatcher finally made his debut as Matt Riddle's tag team partner on the 5/20 NXT. He was signed in February, but with the ongoing pandemic and while several ideas were put forward for Thatcher's on-screen debut, this was months in the making. It is notable that NXT announcers have openly mentioned Thatcher and Riddle's history in Evolve.

- Speaking of Matt Riddle, there is speculation that he will be brought up to the main roster imminently. I would agree that he isn't going to progress much further in NXT. He signed here in 2018. No word on if he will end up on Raw or Smackdown.

- AJ Styles should be back within the next few weeks, having been written out back with the WrestleMania loss to the Undertaker. Who knows how they'll write him back from the grave, but we've seen wilder things happen. The same could be said for John Cena, who is supposedly still trapped in the Firefly Fun House match.

- The decision to write Aleister Black out, at least for the time being, is to not only further his program with Seth Rollins into the summer, but to revamp Black's character. With Paul Heyman's creative influence gaining power of late, it is no secret that he sees him as someone who can headline. The idea with this angle is to prepare Black and legitimize his character for a main event run.

- Titus O'Neil was nominated for this year's ESPN Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award. The show airs on 6/21 at 9 p.m. on ESPN. O'Neil is a finalist along with Nelson Cruz of the Minnesota Twins, Kevin Love of the Cleveland Cavaliers, Devin and Jason McCounty of the New England Patriots and Maya Moore of the Minnesota Lynx of the WNBA. With WWE, O'Neil has supported the Susan G. Komen Foundation, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the Special Olympics. He has also started his own Bullard Family Foundation working with the Hillsborough Country Public Schools in Tampa in working to transform Sligh Middle Magnet School into an education and community hub including helping build a first class gym for the school staff, put in a multi-million dollar track and turf field for the community and a prosperity center offering support services to lift families out of poverty.

WON Ratings:
RAW Women's Championship - RAW 5/18 - ***¼
8-Man Tag Team Elimination match - SmackDown 5/22 - ***¾
Fifteen Minutes of Fame - SmackDown 5/22 - ***

TV Ratings:
RAW - 1.78 million viewers
NXT - 0.59 million viewers
SmackDown - 2.04 million viewers

❙❙❙

DTP · Dec 9, 2022

Monday Night RAW #1409 - May 25, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by

LESS THAN THREE WEEKS FROM BACKLASH

WWE Main Event #400 – May 29, 2020
- Bianca Belair def. Billie Kay (with Peyton Royce) with the K.O.D. Peyton Royce tried to attack after, only to be hit with the K.O.D. for good measure. (5:06)
- RAW Tag Team Champion Austin Theory (with Murphy) def. Akira Tozawa with the ATL. (8:13)

A video package aired, showing the proud and patriotic history of the United States military. As President Ronald Reagan said, "they didn't volunteer to die, they volunteered to defend values". With acts of selflessness, courage and honor, the veterans had the WWE's support as they honored them all this Memorial Day weekend.

The opening video package aired, bringing us to...the sound of the WWE Universe! On the air inside the WWE Performance Center, but shockingly there were limited fans in attendance. Each stood at an acceptance distance a part, the fans were comprised of healthy, tested prospects of the WWE Performance Center and NXT Brand! Plexiglass divided them from the ringside area atop the barricade areas, as Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton welcomed the WWE Universe on a night where after nearly two months in the making, tonight Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe would meet one-on-one for only the second time in history! Plus, RAW Women's Champion Asuka would take on Ruby Riott; and MVP would present the VIP Lounge with Bobby Lashley.

Kevin Owens vs Samoa Joe
RAW Women's Champion Asuka vs Ruby Riott
Rey Mysterio and Humberto Carrillo vs WWE United States Champion Andrade and Angel Garza
MVP presents the VIP Lounge with special guest Bobby Lashley

How the Night Shall End
Randy Orton enthused the limited selection of the WWE Universe, as he walked down the rampway towards the ring. "The Apex Predator" appeared like a caged animal as he glanced through the plexiglass at the WWE Performance Center prospects in attendance, methodically climbing into the ring in his new T-shirt and jeans. Taking in the negative response for the first time since before WrestleMania, Orton took to the microphone to discuss how things had changed since the decade began. Not only were things different, but the trajectory he was on had evolved radically. With twists and turns; from the return of an old friend in the 2020 Royal Rumble match in Edge, to the deterioration of Rated-RKO as he chose his newest target. From Last Man Standing at WrestleMania, and the head injuries he sustained from "the Rated R Superstar"; to the head injuries he gave Edge back at Money in the Bank. Randy said he looked at the individual he was six months ago, and he didn't recognize him - he had become something new entirely!

Anything Edge could do, Randy Orton could do better - and "the Viper" claimed he proved that at Money in the Bank, when he gave "the Rated R Superstar" a Punt kick for the month-long torment he had to endure. The One-Man Conchairto, in hindsight, Orton could respect he deserved - but only because he clearly hadn't done enough damage to make sure Edge knew what he wanted...and what "the Apex Predator" wanted was to make sure the WWE was without Edge entirely! Orton taunted the WWE Universe, questioning them on where Edge was now. That's when the WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre made his way out to the stage! "The Scottish Terminator" wasted no time making his way down to the ring, only for Randy to casually take a stroll out to ringside. McIntyre snatched the microphone and addressed "the Viper", asking him whatever happened to the emotional manipulator?

Drew McIntyre continued to press Randy Orton asking what happened to the guy who proudly claimed he was gonna be a ten-time World Champion in an interview last week, after laying him out with the RKO! The Scotsman remembered all too well what "the Apex Predator" was capable of, remembering how the RKO felt at Money in the Bank as well as last week. He didn't need a trip down memory lane with 3MB to push him - so what was stopping he and Randy from getting it on tonight? The WWE Universe cheered, but Orton snatched a second microphone and told Drew that simply wasn't going to happen. Orton explained that was the difference between Drew and he - the WWE World Champion was a hot-head! Drew was stupid and undisciplined enough to do what he wanted when he wanted, and to put the title at stake whenever he saw fit. Drew's mouth got him into more trouble than it was worth, whereas he worked smart and played smarter!

"The Apex Predator" admitted he liked the naívete of the first-time WWE World Champion, remembering it like his own reign. When Randy Orton won his first World Heavyweight Championship, he let his temper get the best of him - and lost it three weeks later. Drew McIntyre was lucky to have made it this far. "The Scottish Terminator" stated the only reason Randy lost it so soon was because he was a grade-A assh*le! Orton smirked, self-assured knowing tonight would end with McIntyre a broken man. Orton claimed he wouldn't fight him tonight, but he was going to get what was coming to him in less than three weeks at Backlash. McIntyre told Orton he was on - but he wasn't about to take "no" for an answer. He was getting his fight tonight, one way or another! The WWE World Champion left the ring and tried confronting Randy, who backed off up the rampway. Hiding behind two officials preventing all hell from breaking loose, Orton told Drew to enjoy his night while he could - leaving the champ to stew!

Backlash - WWE World Championship - Drew McIntyre (c) vs Randy Orton

An Open Challenge and A Closed Friendship
Monday Night RAW rolled on with WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre continuing to prounce the ring, as the limited audience members in attendance chanted "the Scottish Terminator's" name. With a microphone in hand, the champ rallied the fans by declaring that Randy Orton could get lost. He was going to get the fight he was looking for tonight, because he was ticked off and ready to go. Knowing he had his match with Randy Orton on June 14 at Backlash, he was craving competition badly. The Scotsman declared an open challenge to anybody in the back wanting a shot at the man to beat on Monday Night RAW! As McIntyre continued to call out for any challenger waiting, all of a sudden Heath Slater came walking out to the rampway. "The One-Man Rock Band" solemnly walked down to the ring, one week after the former WWE Superstar had let his former bandmate have it in a verbal tirade. Slater told McIntyre he wasn't going to tell him anything he didn't already get off his chest last week.

What Heath Slater thought of Drew McIntyre was beside the point now, because now "the Scottish Terminator" was WWE World Champion, he could carry on and pretend 3MB never happened. Drew could be the WWE Superstar neither he nor Jinder Mahal could ever be, because he was the most disingenuous friend he had ever laid eyes on. "The One-Man Rock Band" claimed he may not work for WWE any longer, but he had kids, and he was still here. Since he was being paid by the hour out of pity, he told Drew he had nothing to lose. Slater told his old friend he heard the open challenge called - and he was chomping at the bit to knock him down a peg! McIntyre began to speak, telling Slater he never wanted it to come to this - when the redhead spat right in his face. Drew slowly wiped it from his cheek, glared at his old friend and told him he was on!

1) WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre def. Heath Slater (4:38)
- "The Scottish Terminator" overcame Jinder Mahal last week, but was now confronted by the other third of 3MB. Heath Slater had returned to give Drew McIntyre a tongue-lashing to remember, as part of the emotional manipulation orchestrated by Randy Orton. This week he accepted the challenge of the eager WWE World Champion, as the two traded fists immediately! A series of shoulder thrusts in the corner from Drew saw "the One-Man Rock Band" get a knee up, when a neckbreaker gave him a surprising near fall. Heath began to pummel his former friend, with risk of being disqualified - but a Glasgow Kiss swiftly turned things around! Drew caught Slater with a belly-to-belly suplex and a kip-up when Slater intercepted a potential Claymore Kick with the spinning spinebuster. Slater followed suit with a missile dropkick, before looking at another neckbreaker - but Drew shoved him off. Hitting the ropes, Drew ducked a clothesline and took Slater to "Claymore Country" for the three count!

The WWE World Champion's impressive dominance continued, with another victory over another member of the 3MB. Heath Slater was left out cold from the Claymore Kick that finished him off, whilst "the Scottish Terminator" stood tall and posed with the title in-hand. Drew McIntyre had to be feeling the emotional effects of having battled a former friend, and before leaving the ring he decided to return and do the honorable thing! Helping a dazed "One-Man Rock Band" back to his feet, the Scotsman propped the redhead up in the corner and offered a handshake - who instead bowed his head and buried it in the chest of his friend. McIntyre hugged his once-good friend, who sobbed on his shoulder, while Randy Orton was seen watching on backstage with a sickening smirk on his face. "The Apex Predator" had threatened McIntyre would end the night a broken man, but that much remained to be seen.

︾︾︾

Charly Caruso was backstage with Rey Mysterio and Humberto Carrillo ahead of a huge tag team match set for tonight against WWE United States Champion Andrade and Angel Garza. "The Legendary Luchador" made it known his rivalry with "El Idolo" had gone on for far too long. He had had it up to hear with Zelina Vega's "perros" running amock and making life hard for him, his family and his friends. Humberto nodded in agreement, as Charly asked about Dominik after not seeing him the past couple of weeks. Rey maintained that Dominik would no longer be present, because after a long discussion, he and his son had come to agree that the WWE ring was no place for him. But who was to say about the future. Mysterio maintained that he wished for Dominik to go to college and get an education first. Humberto chimed in to declare that Angel was his family too, and "the Loverboy" was in for a big wake-up call in the match tonight. Mysterio and Carrillo left to get ready, appearing on the same page.

A video graphic aired, showing that Monday Night RAW was emanating from the WWE Performance Center - the WWE's "Athletic Hub" for future WWE Superstars. For the first time since March, RAW was emanating before a limited selection of socially distanced, tested spectators in attendance.
A replay aired, taking us back to last week on Monday Night RAW. A six-man tag team match saw Bobby Lashley and MVP team up with Samoa Joe to do battle with Kevin Owens, Ricochet and Cedric Alexander. It would wind up practically a standard tag team match, as the chaotic rivalry between "the Prize Fighter" and "the Coquina Destroyer" reached a whole new level, as the two brawled to the backstage area and into the men's room where KO left Joe on "the John!" Tonight, Joe vs Owens would take place for only the second time in history.

︾︾︾

Taking A Chance at Mr. Money in the Bank
The black carpet covered the ring mat, and leather couches decorated the ring for 'the VIP Lounge'. MVP entered the ring inside WWE Performance Center in a brown suit, welcoming the small crowd to his show - "the most hot-topic talk show in WWE today". "The Franchise Playa" bragged about how his show had been the big numbers-grabber the past few months, and his show had been able to get the likes of Edge, Randy Orton and Drew McIntyre. But tonight was about to take 'the VIP Lounge' from level, to two levels beyond - minimum! MVP wished to welcome out somebody who had become a solid friend of his: the holder of the Money in the Bank briefcase - Bobby Lashley! With no sign of his wife Lana, "the All Mighty" was also dressed with style as he posed with the green briefcase in hand. Climbing inside the ring, a cool handshake saw the host bring Lashley to take a seat on the couch. The two lounged, with Lashley sat with an arm around his briefcase.

MVP congratulated Bobby Lashley again on his big win, claiming the other men in the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match posed no threat to "the All Mighty". Lashley joked he would turn red with all the sweet-talk! While things had been looking a little bleak for he and his family for quite a while, things were looking up - and it began when he won the Money in the Bank briefcase! MVP noted his assistance allowing Lashley to win the contract, guaranteeing a WWE Championship opportunity at any time. "The Franchise Playa" was eager to ask: what were his plans for cashing in his contract? With a coy smile, the pokerface of Lashley remained as he hinted at keeping a keen eye on Drew McIntyre at all times. In seriousness, Lashley worked to remain vague in his future plans, claiming that he would hold the briefcase for however long it took. He had never been World Champion - but when he saw the correct time, he would cash in his opportunity, and guaran-damn-teed, he would become take the World title!

The two continued to crack jokes, when MVP spoke about how this was chill - the fact that the ball-and-chain was nowhere to be seen. While he got along fine with Lashley with her around, the host of 'the VIP Lounge' stressed how much easier things were with Lana nowhere in sight. Bobby nodded but remained quiet, when MVP came to his feet and headed over to the cabinet beside him. Pulling out a bottle of whiskey, MVP revealed two short glasses to accompany it. He talked about how sorry he was that Lashley was never able to celebrate his big victory at Money in the Bank, and spoke about how he had saved this whiskey for years! He was waiting for a huge opportunity to present itself. Pouring "the All Mighty" and himself a glass, "the Franchise Playa" called a toast to 'friendship' - when Lana came walking out to the ring! Bobby and Montel paused as she entered the ring, immediately snatching the drink from her husband's hand.

Montel Vontavious Porter questioned what her deal was, but Lana claimed Bobby Lashley didn't need liquid courage: he needed to remain focused! She had seen her husband experience the highest of highs, and the lowest of lows - and those lows were at an all-time high when he was unfocused. She stressed how although he was Mr. Money in the Bank, he needed to not grow too cocky. MVP shook his head in annoyance, apologizing to Bobby for what he was about to say: Lana was nothing but a succubus! MVP noted how Lana could get when Lashley was experiencing a high - she was jealous, she was clingy, and above all else: she was a hellcat waiting to pounce! He questioned how her man could stay focused when she was looking to mount him at any opportunity. An offended Lana responded to the chagrin of her husband, tossind the glass of whiskey in the face of the talk show host!

MVP confronted Lana when Bobby Lashley got in his face, but Ricochet and Cedric Alexander arrived! All smiles, "the Future of Flight" did not pity "the All Mighty" - stuck in the middle of the worst love triangle in WWE history, between Lana and MVP! MVP questioned what they wanted, Cedric wanted to talk last week. He was willing to admit Bobby Lashley had his number - but if Ricochet could get under "the All Mighty's" skin, he was wanted a chance too! Cedric issued the challenge to Lashley, but after conferring with his wife, he laughed him off. Lashley told Alexander he was beneath him, and he had his sights set on Ricochet - a better man's Cedric Alexander! Rather, Cedric accepted that analysis - instead citing he was in the position to change opinions. Alexander hit the ring and hit a springboard crossbody! MVP tried intervening, when Ricochet gave him the Recoil! Lashley, MVP and Lana bailed ringside, leaving Ricochet and Cedric to make themselves at home on the couches. Lashley told Cedric he was on!

Tonight - Bobby Lashley vs Cedric Alexander

Following a replay of Cedric Alexander's successful effort to get beneath the skin of Bobby Lashley during 'the VIP Lounge', Bobby Lashley raged in his dressing room much to the chagrin of his wife Lana. She could not understand how he could do that - knowing that Bobby was Mr. Money in the Bank. She advised her husband keep his eyes on the prize, and that he sever ties with this whole situation. Bobby refused to let anybody get one over on him, claiming this all started when he let that punk Ricochet get a win over him. That's when Lana revealed that she wasn't talking about "the Future of Flight", nor Cedric Alexander: she was talking about MVP! "The All Mighty" accused her of thinking only about herself, walking out and leaving Lana to call after him. She was only thinking about him!

︾︾︾

2) RAW Women's Champion Asuka def. Ruby Riott (with Sarah Logan) (8:28) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The RAW Women's Champion had a date with Shayna Baszler ahead at Backlash for her title, but tonight Asuka was all alone following Kairi Sane's broken arm suffered from "the Queen of Spade's" savage attack. The Riott Squad took issue with the Kabuki Warriors' involvement in their own business with Liv Morgan, and with Sarah Logan behind her, Ruby Riott hoped to make herself a viable contender. "The Empress of Tomorrow" struck hard from the bell, surprising Riott with a rapid succession of kicks and palm strikes, when Logan made the distraction. An enzuigiri to the back of the head saw "the Green-Haired Avenger" gain offense, following with an aggressive series of stomps in the corner. Asuka surprised Ruby with a hip attack sending her through the ropes - the champ not going down easy!
- Ruby Riott finally seized control following the commercial break, slapping "the Empress of Tomorrow" around on the canvas. Asuka struggled in a seated abdominal stretch, as a replay revealed further distractions from Sarah Logan saw Ruby send her into the barricade. Asuka fired back up only to be sent from the ring, where Logan rammed Asuka shoulder-first into the ring post! Riott's point was being proven as she connected with the Deadly Night Shade in the corner, and a hurricanrana driver garnered a close call. The RAW Women's Champion battled a headscissors, and soon caught her from the top rope with a kick to the ribcage! With kicks to the chest, a roundhouse kick went ducked giving Ruby chance to backslide Asuka - but the champ dodged the Riott Kick and struck with a spinkick to claim the victory!

The RAW Women's Champion endured a challenge from Ruby Riott, but it only reminded that without Kairi Sane around, Asuka was all alone! Sarah Logan ambushed "the Empress of Tomorrow", pounding away at the back of her head. With rights and lefts, "The Southern Belle" found herself hit by Asuka's expertly-placed kicks, just for Riott to attack from behind! Ruby and Sarah put the boots to Asuka together, as the Riott Squad were not about to take a loss from the champ. Shayna Baszler came strutting out to the ring, "the Queen of Spades" impatiently waiting for Backlash to come around. As she stepped into the, the Riott Squad took a leave, bringing Shayna to smile at the boos from the WWE Universe. She picked Asuka up and talked trash, denouncing her as nothing but a paper champion. Suddenly, Asuka came to life and took the MMA Fighter down with the Asuka Lock! Shayna clung to the ropes to escape, but Asuka sat up and grinned at her challenger - daring Shayna to come and test her!

︾︾︾

Samoa Joe was getting into the mindset for war later tonight, where for the first time in two years, he would go head-to-head with Kevin Owens. "The Coquina Destroyer" glanced up from his balled-up fists, colliding them with the other. Tonight, who would come out victorious - he or KO?

Meanwhile, the Church of Rollins were full of it after last week's so-called "apology" to Aleister Black. Seth Rollins led the RAW Tag Team Champions Murphy and Austin Theory down the hall, as the trio were supported by the imposing gargantuan of the Church - Akam. "The Monday Night Messiah" wore his black and white suit, apparently planning to address the WWE Universe: up next.

An advertisement aired, promoting a schedule for tomorrow night. With 'WWE Backstage' set to be broadcast at midnight, Eastern time on FS1, in its' network television premiere, 'A Future WWE: The FCW Story' would be shown at 10 PM. For the first time ever, discover FCW's story and how the Tampa-based developmental territory was the training ground for many of today's top WWE Superstars, including Seth Rollins, Charlotte Flair, Big E and more.

Not Dead Yet
The WWE Universe banged on the plexiglass inside the WWE Performance Center as the holy theme music of the Church of Rollins played. Led by Seth Rollins with a black glove and his hair tied up, Murphy walked stoically behind him as Austin Theory snapped selfies with his newly-won RAW Tag Team Championship. Akam made a slow walk behind them, as the faction arrived inside the ring. Seth took to the microphone to expand on last week even further, knowing how his "apology" was not exactly what the USA Network executives wanted to hear. They were probably not what FOX executives wished to hear either. It wasn't much of an apology, but then again, who cared if it was? It surely wasn't in Aleister's interests, because "the Anti-Hero" never even bothered showing up! But then again, the only thing he could do these days was wink with one eye. Rollins spoke of how much wasted potential Black had to offer, refusing to join the Church of Rollins; and refusing to show himself to his adoring fans!

This was what Seth Rollins preached weeks ago, about how antisocial Aleister Black was. He understood that was what "the Ominous Man from Amsterdam" did - but now, who was ducking who? "The Monday Night Messiah" compared the aura each man had, and compared his many WrestleMania victories and multiple championship reigns over the years, to all Black had done - very little! Rollins struck low as he talked about Aleister's prime days being behind him, but hoped he would one day see the light that "the Messiah" cast - if he could even open his eye and see at all. Rollins cackled to the WWE Universe's boos, when Austin Theory chimed in. As the newest Disciple to the Church of Rollins, "A-Town Austin" spoke on how for years he had looked up to and admired his fearless leader - but to have the admiration of his leader in mind meant more than the world to him, and meant more than the RAW Tag Team Championship. In Theory's mind, Seth had become like a father to him!

"The Monday Night Messiah" looked at Austin Theory coldly as the newest recruit of the Church raised his iPhone and snapped a photo of himself and the Church's leader. Murphy raised the finger and warned his fellow Disciple about his actions, as Seth Rollins took several steps away. Seth was willing to let that slide because "A-Town Austin" was the new guy, but warned him that the Church had rules. Murphy and even Akam advised a reluctant Theory to delete the selfie, but the youngster was reluctant. Seth questioned whether he was cut out for this group at all, and echoed his Disciples' sentiments - to delete the photo, and to forget it ever happened. Theory remained hesitant, when Seth suddenly cracked up in laughter! "The Messiah" maintained he was not an ogre, that he had to be down with students of the game like Theory. Wrapping an arm around the newcomer, Rollins gave Theory and Murphy credit for stepping up in Rezar's injury, and capturing the RAW Tag Team Championships at Money in the Bank.

Austin Theory nervously confessed Seth Rollins was his hero and claimed he would delete the photo, when "the Monday Night Messiah" claimed to be cool with it, believing it had potential to be in WWE Network documentaries years in the future! Murphy and Akam remained stonefaced as Seth echoed how proud he was of the new RAW Tag Team Champions - when the lights went out. The Church fell silent, as the video screen revealed one-half of Aleister Black's face. "The Anti-Hero" told Seth to feel proud of what he and his goons did last week, but he was not dead yet. Black believed every dog had its' day, and for the leader of the Church of Rollins that would come the next time he found himself alone. A black blindfold covered the damaged eye of Aleister, who concluded that he was scarred and he was down - but Seth would need to do a lot more to make him meet his end. Back in the ring, Rollins appeared terrified as Akam, Murphy and Theory looked to defend their leader!

︾︾︾

A graphic aired, showing that the lack of trust and escalated tension between tag teams the Street Profits and the Viking Raiders had led the four to a competitive rivalry. Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins had challenged Erik and Ivar to a game of bowling - but who would the victors be?

A graphic aired, in memorium of the late former WWE Superstar Shad Gaspard, 1981-2020, who was tragically washed ashore this past Wednesday at the age of 39.

Riddick Moss paced back and forth in the backstage area, when approached by Charly Caruso. The broadcast journalist hoped to catch up on how "So Smooth" was doing since losing the WWE 24/7 Championship match at Money in the Bank, when Moss cut her off. His facial hair untrimmed, and his hair unkempt, Moss was losing his grasp of reality since the loss to Rob Gronkowski fifteen days ago. Every day felt like two days, and he held Gronk responsible...but not as responsible as he held R-Truth. Moss spoke as a crazed individual, claiming that "the Truth" stole from him, but tonight would not go the same way. Tonight, he would get back on track because he always floated to the top - and that much would be said when he regained the title tonight.

Tonight - WWE 24/7 Championship - R-Truth (c) vs Riddick Moss

︾︾︾

7-10 Splitsville
Following discussion from Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton about the dissolution of the alliance between the Street Profits and the Viking Raiders, a video aired taken from earlier today. At a nearby bowling alley in downtown Florida, the Street Profits sat and chilled with their red cups in hand. Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins were talking about how "blah" Murphy and Austin Theory made the RAW Tag Team Championships looked, and lamented how they needed to get the gold back - when suddenly they glanced up to see the Viking Raiders. Heavy metal played and slow-motion introduced Erik and Ivar, wearing bowling jerseys in full warpaint and wrestling gear. "The Modern Day Vikings" asked 'Tez and 'Ang if they were ready to get their butts whooped, much to the astonishment of the former RAW Tag Team Champions. The Vikings ordered them it was time to "play ball", cold-cutting to show Ivar attempt to dribble a bowling ball - just for it to smash through the wooden floor!

The Viking Raiders shook their heads, lectured by a college student bowling alley employee that the balls were not basketballs. The video smash-cut to a video montage showed the Street Profits stylin' and profilin', hurling bowling balls down the aisle! "The Modern Day Vikings" struggled to amount much momentum against them in a test of who the more competitive team was. The montage came to a close as Angelo Dawkins received a 7/10 split, bringing their foes to laugh loudly. Other bowlers looked over in disgust as Erik and Ivar taunted 'Ang on the unlucky outcome - but with a confident smirk, Dawkins rolled his next ball, and came out with a strike! The Street Profits were victorious, as the final scorecard read 193-101 in favor of the former champs. 'Tez and 'Ang celebrated, shuffling on the floor when stopped to a halt by the furious losers of the game. Erik and Ivar told the Profits they may have won tonight, but next week they were playing by their rules - with an axe-throwing contest!

︾︾︾

Charly Caruso was standing by in the dressing room with Kevin Owens, asking him for comment on his match tonight against Samoa Joe. KO discussed how to a lot of people, this had to be considered a dream match. It was amusing to him, because he didn't see it that way - instead, he saw it as an opportunity to inflict as much pain as physically possible on the same guy who pretended to be his buddy for long enough. "The Prize Fighter" was ernest in admitting he wasn't the most sincere or likeable guy, and one could ask Sami Zayn or Chris Jericho about that - but "the Coquina Destroyer" tried to take him out for good, only for him to come back a month later. If last week was of any indication, he not only had Joe's number, but tonight when he got him where he wanted him: he wasn't going to beat the Samoan - he was going to make him hurt.

︾︾︾

Backstage, Titus O'Neil was talking to somebody on his cell phone when who would show up - but his seven-foot tall tag team partner, Big Show! "The World's Largest Athlete" caught the WWE Ambassador by surprise, bringing him to hang up the phone and meet him with a handshake. Looking in his prime, the star of Netflix's 'The Big Show Show' was prepared to go - teaming with Titus to do battle with the O.C. - next!

An advertisement aired, with John Cena narrating the story of Dr. Evan Shannon, a doctor who was doing the country proud during timultuous times by dedicating his time and effort to keeping those around him safe. Charlotte Flair told the story of Jill Cardone, someone working in the emergency department of a hospital. On the front-line, she spent her day-to-day putting other people first and protecting them. Triple H spoke of Lisseth DeGracia, a mom who travelled 1,200 miles from Minnesota to New York City, missing birthdays and holidays to help those in need during the pandemic. "Thank A Hero of Your Own" - WWE was in support of The Real Heroes Project.

The O.C. were stood in the ring inside the WWE Performance Center, as Karl Anderson joked about how much fun they had been having with Titus O'Neil of late. He and Luke Gallows had almost forgotten all about the real reason they were here - pointing up at the flag held by his beastly tag team partner and claiming that they were here to demand #Justice4AJ! "The Big LG" harped on about the horrible fate that had befell "the Phenomenal One" AJ Styles back at WrestleMania, where he was buried alive six feet under by a guy dressing like a corpse - the Undertaker! Gallows claimed that was no normal feat, and ordered the WWE Universe consider what turmoil AJ's wife Wendy had to have been going through - let alone his children. K.A. feared what Albey, Avery, Ajay and Anney had been thinking. Finally, the O.C. were interrupted by the arrival of Titus O'Neil! Dressed for action, the WWE Ambassador stood on the rampway - when joined by Big Show. "The World's Largest Athlete" was hyped for competition!

3) The O.C. def. Big Show and Titus O'Neil (4:27)
- #Justice4AJ was thus far falling on the deaf ears of WWE management, but had caught the attention of WWE Legend the Big Show. The star of 'The Big Show Show' was pumped from the success of Season 1's Netflix drop, and barged into a free-for-all alongside Titus O'Neil against Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson. "The World's Largest Athlete" and "the Big LG" brawled ringside, while Karl Anderson jumped prematurely on a leapfrog, allowing O'Neil to catch him with an atomic drop! Big Show dominated K.A. with a press slam, and walked all over the chest of him. Gallows tagged in after Anderson escaped Titus, and a big boot took him down. The O.C. grounded the WWE Ambassador with a chinlocks, until O'Neil caught Anderson with a fallaway slam. Show made the tag and ran hot, with a corner hip bump and a clothesline taking Anderson down! Titus tagged in as Show fell from the ring as the O.C. held down the ropes. Clash of the Titus was blocked by LG, and the Magic Killer gave Anderson the three count!

The O.C. had back-doored themselves to victory against Titus O'Neil, but Karl Anderson's showboating left him wide open to be taken out with the wild WMD courtesy of the Big Show! "The World's Largest Athlete" had taken K.A. out cold with the Knockout Punch, whilst Luke Gallows bailed from the ring as fast as he could. Hollering at the star of 'the Big Show Show' with rage, "the Big LG's" fury could not be understated, as Show prepared his gigantic fist and dared Gallows to re-enter. Luke instead opted not to, but wished for his good-brother to wake up, as Big Show stood ready in the ring.

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WWE United States Champion Andrade and Angel Garza talked casually in the backstage hallway, when approached by their business manager, Zelina Vega. While "El Idolo" and "the Loverboy" were oozing with confidence, Zelina was all business as she led her clients down the hall. The rivalry was about to continue with the trio, and their opponents tonight, Rey Mysterio and Humberto Carrillo. The tag team match was coming up next!

Back from the commercial break, a video package aired recapping episode 3 of 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride' documentary. Revolving around his iconic rivalry with Shawn Michaels, "Chapter 3: End of an Era" was a Limited Series Event available now on the WWE Network.

Graphics aired, showing excerpts from articles published by TV Guide, ESPN, CBS Sports, Newsweek and Sporting News, all in response to 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride' thus far. Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton discussed "Chapter 3: End of an Era" at length, before revealing that "Chapter 4: The Battle Within" would premiere in less than three weeks, immediately following Backlash.

4) WWE United States Champion Andrade and Angel Garza (with Zelina Vega) def. Rey Mysterio and Humberto Carrillo (5:11)
- The rivalry between Rey Mysterio and Humberto Carrillo and Zelina Vega's consortium comprised of Andrade and Angel Garza continued, following an attempted beatdown of Humberto. "The Legendary Luchador's" issues with Humberto had seemingly reached a conclusion now Dominik was removed from the situation. Mysterio soared with a sliding hurricanrana under the ropes to Garza, while Humberto flew with a crossbody plancha! Mysterio took control of Andrade with a kick to the side of the head. Garza would clothesline him from the apron allowing the WWE United States Champion an opening. Andrade and Angel cornered him from Carrillo, no matter how hard the veteran tried to fight back. Finally Rey hit a tornado DDT on Garza - but when leaping for a tag, Humberto suddenly dropped to the floor! Hard feelings continued to exist between the two, as Andrade proceeded to climb inside and put the boots to Rey. Andrade mercifully finished Rey off with double knees in the corner to give him a shocking win!

La Milicia
"El Idolo" grinned from ear to ear, having beaten Rey as Humberto Carrillo refused to even look back at the ring! Like a pack of gazelles, Zelina Vega had Andrade and Angel Garza continue to put the hurting on "the Legendary Luchador". "El Amante" set up the Wingclipper, when finally Humberto looked to have enough! Defending Rey, Andrade and Angel took a step back opposing him, when the fan favorite's apparent change of heart was revealed to be a swerve - a clothesline wiping out his proclaimed hero! Angel smirked at his cousin, who raised a fist in return. The three men raised fists and met in the middle of the ring, when Garza and Carrillo put the boots to the veteran! Zelina had gained another member of her militia against Mysterio, as the cousins held Rey over the second turnbuckle pad by the arms. Andrade hit the ropes for two consecutive double knees to the back of the skull, leaving Mysterio destroyed in the ring. Vega marched them from the ring - a betrayal leaving Rey alone and victimized!

The scene was ugly, as the WWE United States Champion Andrade stopped at the top of the rampway to look back and see the damage he had caused. Rey Mysterio remained motionless, flat on his face in the corner of the ring. Officials raced out, as did two medics with a stretcher to check on "the Legendary Luchador". With his arms around Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo, Zelina Vega watched closeby with the WWE United States Championship on her own person. A new alliance had been formed, as Rey was carefully attended to by the officials and medics. The WWE Universe in attendance had fallen hush, but finally came up in arms with chants for "the World's Biggest Underdog", as he was rolled onto the stretcher and rolled out of the WWE Performance Center!

A replay aired, showing the shocking betrayal of Humberto Carrillo against Rey Mysterio. Humberto would turn his back on his childhood hero, looking in favor of his cousin Angel Garza and his arch rival going back months, Andrade. Together, the trio were responsible for not only beating "the Legendary Luchador" down, but making sure he left on a stretcher after three pairs of double knees in the corner.

During the commercial break, Rey Mysterio was shown being wheeled through the hall of the backstage area. Wearing a neckbrace, "the Legendary Luchador" was surrounded by WWE producers, medics and officials as the situation was described as "scary" with regards to his neck. Torted by the double knees to the back of the head especially, the fear was that Rey had lost feeling in his hands as a result of the damage done by Andrade, Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo.

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5) R-Truth (c) def. Riddick Moss to retain the WWE 24/7 Championship (3:21)
- "So Smooth" Riddick Moss did not look very smooth whatsoever, over two weeks removed from his Money in the Bank encounter with Rob Gronkowski. The former WWE 24/7 Champion felt robbed by R-Truth, and the 34-time champ was open to the challenge set by his challenger. Moss ambushed "the Truth" as he entered the ring, showing no chill as he furiously put the boots to him. The agility of the wily veteran saw him make a comeback with a corkscrew axe kick, when R-Truth struck with the scissors kick for a near fall. Moss came firing back with a neckbreaker, but the desperation cost him. Suddenly, Akira Tozawa came running out to ringside, climbing to the top rope to the chagrin of Moss. He ordered he get down, when from behind snuck Shelton Benjamin - crotching Tozawa on the top rope! Moss was furious and the WWE 24/7 Champion capitalized, with the Lil' Jimmy giving him the win.

The chaotic nature of the WWE 24/7 Championship had cost Riddick Moss this rematch for what once belonged to him, as R-Truth would have his hand raised. "The Truth" however was too paranoid of even the official - but suddenly, Shelton Benjamin struck with the Paydirt! Benjamin covered, when Akira Tozawa dragged him off. Akira went to the top rope for the diving senton, but Shelton amazingly flew to the top with a jumping belly-to-belly suplex! With the two taken from the equation, R-Truth rolled out of the ring and made a run with his title in-hand. Grinning all the way, "the Truth" proudly celebrated with his title.

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Bobby Lashley ceased doing press-ups as MVP and Lana continued to bicker back and forth. "The All Mighty" came between them, ordering to keep it together. Heading to the ring with both in tow, elsewhere saw Ricochet prepping his tag team partner Cedric Alexander for the match to come. "Lumbar Legacy" appeared cool, calm and collected as "the Future of Flight" led him to the ring. Alexander issued the challenge - and up next, looked to make a name for himself against Lashley.

Snapping Arms and Taking Names
Charly Caruso was backstage with Shayna Baszler, who was in no mood to wait for her cue. "The Queen of Spades" ordered Charly step aside, snatching the microphone and threatening to snap her arm! The MMA Fighter was fuming from being shown up by the RAW Women's Champion Asuka, and she told "the Empress of Tomorrow" she was counting down the days to Backlash. Shayna claimed Asuka had been a phenomenon in WWE, and that was undeniable. She possessed the longest streak in the Modern Era for a women's WWE Superstar, and had been decorated with every Women's Championship crown known in this business - but Asuka was not the only woman to carry this division. Ever since she arrived on Monday Night RAW, she had destroyed the competition. She had proven her toughness, advising she ask Kairi Sane or Kayden Carter what they thought to her skill. Asuka would join her Kabuki Warrior sister come June 14, and finally, the RAW Women's Championship would sit on her shoulder.

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6) Bobby Lashley (with Lana and MVP) def. Cedric Alexander (with Ricochet) (7:19) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Where the allegiance of Bobby Lashley laid between his wife Lana and new friend MVP remained a mystery, yet after 'the VIP Lounge' earlier tonight it was evident he had unfinished business with Ricochet - as well as Cedric Alexander. "Lumbar Legacy" had much to prove against the Men's Money in the Bank briefcase winner, ducking and dodging the powerhouse's thunderous offense and catching him with an enzuigiri! The Lumbar Check was attempted early but Lashley was simply too big, and able to cut him down with a clothesline turning him inside-out. Lana and MVP were on the same page in supporting their man, as Bobby relented with shoulder thrusts in the corrner, and then hurled him across the ring with two military press slams! Ricochet tried checking on Cedric at ringside, when Lashley fended him away with another big clothesline!
- Cedric Alexander continued to be in grave danger, as Bobby Lashley maintained a bear hug on the grounded "Lumbar Legacy". Ricochet tried to get the WWE Universe behind his friend, when "the All Mighty" brought Cedric to his feet. Attempting a belly-to-belly suplex, Cedric landed on his feet! A low dropkick set him up for a springboard clothesline enabling the underdog to follow with the Neutralyser - for a narrowly close fall! Lana demanded MVP come to her husband's aid, but as he hesitantly climbed to the apron, Ricochet dragged him down! MVP and him argued, when Alexander soared with a somersault plancha for "the Franchise Playa". Alexander then returned and looked for a springboard attempt - only to be caught with the Spear in mid-air! Lashley had Cedric beat, but instead opted to lock in a Full Nelson on him - Alexander quickly losing consciousness.

Bobby Lashley refused to relinquish the Full Nelson on Cedric Alexander, who drooped to the canvas in the dangerous grasp of "the All Mighty". Lana was wholly smitten by her husband, as MVP encouraged further punishment. That's when Ricochet decided to spring to action - a springboard catching Lashley with a dropkick! "The Future of Flight" struck with a backflipping dropkick into a step-up enzuigiri, when the Recoil dropped him to a knee. Ricochet looked to embarrass Lashley once again with a second springboard - but MVP was able to pull the middle rope, causing him to crash to the canvas! Lashley proceeded to wipe him out with the Spear before letting out a roar. Lana handed her husband the Money in the Bank briefcase for him to pose with, while MVP talked trash to Ricochet.

︾︾︾

Following an introduction from Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton, a video package aired recapping the hard night for Bianca Belair one week ago. Scheduled to challenge Charlotte Flair for the NXT Women's Championship that very night, "the Queen" put a massive obstacle in "the EST's" way - the woman who handed her her sole loss since arriving on Monday Night RAW, Nia Jax. "The Irresistible Force" was defeated, but would leave Bianca laying ahead of the main event. Yet she fought valiantly, with every bit of might she had, only to be finally beaten with the help of not just Nia, but Flair's fellow supporters, the Iiconics.

Unnerved by the agony of defeat in the NXT Women's Championship attempt one week ago, Bianca Belair was dressed to the nines with her hair braided. "The EST" moved with style like only she could - as she planned to address the WWE Universe following her loss to Charlotte Flair last week: up next!

WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre was seen pacing back and forth in the corridor, still waiting for Randy Orton to make his move as threatened earlier tonight. "The Scottish Terminator" soon walked towards the locker room door of "the Apex Predator's". McIntyre bided his time before knocking violently, calling for Randy to hurry up and do his worst! Time was ticking and time was money as far as the champ was concerned - the Scotsman telling Orton to be the man he said he was. If Drew's mouth got him into trouble, where was he now? Instead, there was no answer - when the Scot declared if "the Viper" wouldn't strike, he'd have to first. With that, McIntyre took a step back and booted the door down! Drew stepped inside, only to find no Orton inside.

︾︾︾

"Next-Generation Horsewomen" In Training
Bianca Belair brought the WWE Universe to their feet in the WWE Performance Center, as "the EST" came walking out to the rampway. With a smile on her face to the reaction, she took a walk down to the ring and began skipping and swinging her braid around to the adulation of the dozens of spectators in attendance. Bianca took to the microphone to say it wasn't quite the reaction she expected - but it was a start. Belair tried to speak on what went on last week before being humbled by the chants of the people, to which she smiled. Bianca finally told them how she gave the world everything she had last week and she came so close to capturing the NXT Women's Championship - the one title that eluded her throughout her entire time in NXT. But that was then, and she was a RAW Superstar now! Belair talked about how her pursuit would not end until she beat Charlotte Flair's behind for the count of three, and how she would not rest until the deed was done and "the Queen" was beat.

But if Bianca Belair couldn't be NXT Women's Champion - she would have to look elsewhere. Hinting the idea of Asuka or Shayna Baszler, whomever walked out of Backlash with the RAW Women's Championship, "the EST" was interrupted by the arrival of the Iiconics! With microphones, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce mocked Bianca Belair for continuing to cry about her dreams going shattered. The two joked that Bianca's hopes of ever being anything remotely close to Charlotte Flair were preposterous, but Bianca told "the Iiconic Duo" she had it up to hear from "the Queen's" mosquitos. Kay and Royce countered, fed up with "the EST" acting like she was the best-EST of Monday Night RAW. The Australians urged her to respect her contemporaries, those who paved the way. Bianca questioned what they had done since getting here! The Iiconics retorted that they became WWE Women's Tag Team Champions at WrestleMania 35 - bringing Bianca to ask a better question: what had they done since then?

Bianca Belair exacted her point: the Iiconics weren't close to being Charlotte Flair's lapdogs - but rather, her b*tches! This infuriated Billie Kay and Peyton Royce, who claimed they were the NXT Women's Champion's eyes and ears - that made them this generation's answer to the Four Horsemen! Bianca laughter loudly, implying they weren't even close. "The EST" grew bored of this row, urging "the Iiconic Duo" if they wanted to throw down, to come on down! The Iiconics looked for excuses, when Nia Jax stomped down to ringside. She barged right through Royce and Kay, getting in the ring and going at it with Belair! Bianca cornered "the Irresistible Force" with knees and elbows, when the Iiconics hit the ring from behind. Belair turned to fight with them, when out ran Liv Morgan to even the odds! Nia turned it around with a clothesline for Liv, when Natalya made her return to Monday Night RAW! A six-woman free-for-all saw Jax and the Iiconics take their leave, as Nattie hugged Liv and raised Bianca's hand.

︾︾︾

Samoa Joe began his march for the ring, moments away from only his second-ever encounter with Kevin Owens. After last week's six-man tag team warfare saw both hit the men's room, "the Coquina Destroyer" flexed his neck when approached by Charly Caruso. She asked about his opinion on KO, just for him to bark up that he was a stupid, stupid man. He claimed Owens should have never come back from the attack at WrestleMania, but since he did, he was going to keep this very simply. Suddenly, Kevin Owens ambushed him from behind! Moments to wait before the main event, Joe and Owens went at it in the backstage area as officials looked to break it up. The main event was supposed to be up next!

A replay aired, taking us back to before the commercial break. As Charly Caruso hoped to interview Samoa Joe, who was en route to his match with Kevin Owens, "the Prize Fighter" would ambush "the Coquina Destroyer" - a continuation from their men's room melee last week! Up next, the two were set to collide.

Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton discussed the chaos that had unfolded tonight on Monday Night RAW, and speculated next week would see an explanation from Humberto Carrillo on his forming an alliance with Andrade, Zelina Vega and Angel Garza. Big Show would meet Luke Gallows; Liv Morgan and Natalya would battle the Iiconics; and Bobby Lashley would go head-to-head with Ricochet.

Bobby Lashley vs Ricochet
WWE United States Champion Andrade, Zelina Vega, Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo discuss Rey Mysterio
Big Show vs Luke Gallows
The Iiconics vs Liv Morgan and Natalya

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7) Kevin Owens vs Samoa Joe fought to a double count-out (9:49) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The bad blood continued to rage on between Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe, who had waited all week long for this opportunity after last week saw KO battle "the Coquina Destroyer" into the men's room. Before the break, both men engaged in another backstage brawl that went separated, and as soon as KO stampeded towards the ring for this main event, both men went at it. Owens tackled Joe and took him down with mudhole stomps. The Samoan waged war with a spinebuster, looking to swarm the Canadian with heavy forearms. KO sent Joe to the floor and executed a dive through the ropes, before sending Joe inside and dropping him with the cannonball! Owens was interested in revenge greater than costing him Money in the Bank, but his eagerness led to Joe taking him out with a hard Uranage in the corner!
- Samoa Joe gave Kevin Owens a big boot to the jaw as he laid in the corner, returning from the final commercial break. "The Coquina Destroyer" ran his mouth to KO, who responded with a harsh slap to the face! Owens began to mount a comeback, just to be cut off by a cross-legged kneebreaker! An STF kept Owens under control, but he would finally make it to the rope. Joe bided his time, coming close to getting himself disqualified, before following him out to ringside. Joe continued to big boot Owens as he took a seat on a chair by the barricade, when Owens side-stepped him! The plexiglass panel was put through by his boot, and "the Prize Fighter" rallied back with blow after blow - an Apron Powerbomb putting Joe in his place. The WWE Universe cheered Owens' brutality shown tonight, but he wasn't finished with him! The two men brawled over the exposed barricade wall, battling into the limited selection of WWE Universe members in attendance - meanwhile, the referee's count expired!

The fight continued regardless of the match's result, with Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe brawling amongst the dozens of WWE Universe members in attendance. "The Prize Fighter" and "the Coquina Destroyer's" rivalry continued to go untameable, as Owens sent Joe face-first into an LED lighting rig in the distance of the WWE Performance Center! As both men brawled to the backstage area once again, officials rushed to try and break up the carnage.

︾︾︾

The Night is Over for the WWE World Champion
Like things weren't chaotic enough in the WWE Performance Center tonight, the camera cut backstage to show Heath Slater down and hurting clutching his shoulder in agony! Shirtless, "the One-Man Rock Band" had been assaulted by someone as two WWE producers scrambled to his side. Slater groaned in pain, when WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre raced to his side. Asking Heath to put their differences aside and to try and answer who could have done this, from behind with a steel chair shot came Randy Orton! "The Apex Predator" smirked as "the Scottish Terminator" rived in pain - when a second chair shot left Drew laying. Orton dropped the chair and scared off the producers, before lining the champ up and driving the Punt Kick into his skull! Orton knelt beside a motionless McIntyre, chuckling and shaking his head. He warned Drew, but he never listened. Coming back to his feet, Orton claimed he would see him at Backlash. Randy's threat was anything but empty, as producers came to the aid of the champ!

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DTP · Dec 11, 2022

WWE Backlash 2020 - June 14, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"Destiny Calls"
"Watch Me Now" by Kevin Rudolf

LESS THAN THREE WEEKS AWAY!

WWE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Drew McIntyre (c) vs Randy Orton

RAW WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP
Asuka (c) vs Shayna Baszler

Mandy Rose vs Sonya Deville

Matches to be announced.

DTP · Dec 13, 2022

NXT #406 - May 27, 2020
Full Sail University - Orlando, Florida
Presented by

NXT TAKEOVER: IN YOUR HOUSE: ONE WEEK FROM SUNDAY!

NXT UK #94: Unchained in Chicago - May 28, 2020

- In a special look at their NXT TakeOver: Chicago classic, Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate provided special insight and analysis to their unforgettable battle for the WWE United Kingdom Championship.
- Pete Dunne def. Tyler Bate (c) with the Bitter End to capture the WWE United Kingdom Championship. (15:27) [NXT TAKEOVER: CHICAGO - MAY 20, 2017]

A video package aired, recapping last week's edition of NXT. With the countdown to NXT TakeOver: In Your House on for the NXT Champion Adam Cole, and his newly-named number one contender Finn Bálor, a third party intervened to stake his own claim. The Velveteen Dream felt robbed and after much deliberation, challenged "the Prince" to a match which saw the Undisputed Era make their presence felt. "The Panama City Playboy" was joined by Roderick Strong and Bobby Fish to watch from the aisle, allowing Dream to steal victory - a pinfall win against Bálor! A brief confrontation with Dream and the UE would occur later that night, with Cole congratulating the youngster - but in shocking news reported via Twitter, NXT General Manager William Regal would have the Dream added to the title match at TakeOver!

The opening video package aired, introducing us to the refurbed Full Sail Arena on the campus of Full Sail University. As the voices of Mauro Ranallo, Tom Phillips and Beth Phoenix welcomed us to NXT - less than two weeks away from NXT TakeOver: In Your House - there was a notable difference. Plexiglass surrounded the ringside area, and on the other side of the guardrails were none other than a limited selection of NXT Universe members! NXT and WWE Performance Center prospects alike watched from socially-distant allotments, each chanting "NXT".

NXT Champion Adam Cole and Roderick Strong vs Finn Bálor and Velveteen Dream
Dominic Dijakovic vs Keith Lee
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament - A-Block - Isaiah Scott vs El Hijo Del Fantasma
Handicap match - Rhea Ripley vs Chelsea Green and Aliyah - if Rhea Ripley wins, she gets two minutes alone with Robert Stone

1) Kushida (6pts - 3-0) def. Cameron Grimes (4pts - 2-1) in a B-Block match of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament (10:27) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The finals of the B-Block was upon us, with the winner of this match scheduled to meet either Isaiah "Swerve" Scott or El Hijo Del Fantasma at NXT TakeOver: In Your House to determine the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Champion. Cameron Grimes had been gunning to spite Kushida since he first felt disrespected by "the Time Splitter" two months ago. Cameron opened by running his mouth, looking for a cheap shot just to have Kushida evade with leg kicks connecting. An eye poke enabled Grimes to maintain a side headlock, Kushida dropping down and leapfrogging when Cameron's attempt at a fireman's carry saw Kushida turn it around into a hip toss - but the dropkick saw Grimes roll out to the floor. Kushida responded by springing to the apron. Grimes missed when he reached in to grab him, and Kushida connecting with a springboard moonsault! Back inside, Kushida capitalized with a hiptoss into the dropkick successfully!

- Kushida maintained wrist-control of Cameron Grimes when "the Carolina Caveman" broke free, only to receive a kick to the arm! "The Time Splitter" attempted the Hoverboard Lock, but Grimes hoisted him through the air to the ringside floor! With a feint topé, Grimes had the NXT Universe fooled, using the top rope as a hammock. The pressure was on Kushida, as the southerner slapped and degraded the Japanese sensation. Kushida rallied with Back to the Future - blocked by Grimes. A punch to the jaw had Grimes punch-drunk, but an eye rake prevented him from more. A tilt-a-whirl was reversed into the Hoverboard Lock - for Grimes to plant him with a small package driver of his own! Grimes tried a powerbomb, but Kushida connected with a tornado DDT! The moonsault got a near fall, when Grimes cut him off with a sit-out powerbomb. Grimes looked for the Cave In when Kushida dropped and caught him in a sunset flip. He transitioned into the Hoverboard Lock, leaving Grimes no choice but to tap!

One-half of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals had been declared, with Kushida victorious over his rival Cameron Grimes. The B-Block belonged to "the Time Splitter", as the same man who had won similar tournaments in Japan raised his fists in victory. It was not an easy feat, having been victorious against three of the toughest cruiserweights to beat in Tony Nese, Jake Atlas and "the Carolina Caveman" - but now Kushida looked to add more gold to his trophy case. As Kushida began to leave, one had to wonder who he would meet at NXT TakeOver: In Your House - El Hijo Del Fantasma or Isaiah "Swerve" Scott?

NXT TakeOver: In Your House - NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals - El Hijo Del Fantasma or Isaiah Scott vs Kushida

✕✕✕

A replay aired, taking us back to last week's NXT Tag Team Championship defence. Malcolm Bivens' Rinku and Saurav finally got their opportunity to face Matt Riddle, who arrived alone only to be joined by none other than an old friend from his past on the independent circuit - Timothy Thatcher! To the chagrin of Bivens Enterprise, "the Original Bro" and his new ally were victorious following the BroMission and a Fujiwara armbar.

Friends Like These
In an interview taped last week on NXT, McKenzie Mitchell caught up with the NXT Tag Team Champions, as Matt Riddle cheerily greeted her with his arm around his new tag team partner. He introduced Timothy Thatcher, who stood silently with an intimidating grimace. Spoken of as one of "the Original Bro's" best buds, claiming they never lost touch and were always evolving and growing together - whether as sparring partners, or as boozing buddies! Riddle hinted not being a big drinker, admittedly, when Tim killed the mood. Fired up, he said he came to NXT to do two things: inform the NXT Universe about Thatch-As-Thatch-Can, and to make many grown men scream. Riddle was taken aback but chuckled over how funny Tim could be. Malcolm Bivens arrived, livid that Rinku and Saurav had been beaten. Riddle told the head of Bivens Enterprise that his men tried hard to beat them - but advised Bivens scout better goons. In furious anger, Malcolm could only scream with rage!

A Leopard Never Changes Its Spots
Footage aired taken from earlier this week, showing the NXT General Manager William Regal and the NXT Champion Adam Cole discussing the announced Triple Threat match for his title on June 14 at NXT TakeOver: In Your House. Hosted on Zoom, "the Panama City Playboy" appeared friendly as he asked the GM how he was enjoying his time away from Orlando, Florida. William admitted it was remarkably bittersweet, but implored Adam to consider the real purpose of this conversation. Cole continued to smile, as he spoke candidly about the efforts of both Finn Bálor and the Velveteen Dream - the two having clear merit for contending to his title. But with that said, Adam claimed that while both were credible challengers, they lacked what it took to headline NXT TakeOver with Adam Cole BayBay. "The Blackpool Villain" understood but wished for Adam to explain further. The champ held the gold on his shoulder tightly, as he elaborated about already being the longest-reigning NXT Champion in history.

In a few short days, Adam Cole would have been in possession of the NXT Championship for 365 days. As "the Panama City Playboy" reeled off some names he had beaten, from Johnny Gargano to Tommaso Ciampa, to Pete Dunne, Matt Riddle and even Daniel Bryan! Cole questioned how fair it was that he had to defend against not only Finn Bálor - but the Velveteen Dream. Regal understood well where the champ was coming from, claiming he did not like making changes to officially confirmed matches - but he also knew full well how coniving the Undisputed Era could be. He remembered well how Dream was deprived of opportunity time and time again: which was why he wasn't making anymore changes. Cole smiled and asked the NXT General Manager to consider, but when Regal told him the Triple Threat match would remain, the NXT Champion blew a fuse! Jumping to his feet in rage, he paced his room and protested - while Regal simply wished him luck and logged off the call!

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2) Io Shirai def. Vanessa Borne (3:21)
- "The Genius of the Sky" had been watching from the shadows in recent weeks, but made a dramatic return last week confronting NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair. Vanessa Borne had her hands full against Io Shirai in her first match back on "the Black and Gold Brand" in quite some time, and immediately rushed the Japanese star. Borne was aggressive and connected with a twisting suplex for a near fall early, when Shirai made a swift comeback with a victory roll into a double footstomp. Io was untouchable as an Asai moonsault took the action to ringside, when the tiger feint kick paved the way for a Meteora in the corner! Victory was Io's, as the Moonsault was up next - putting away Borne.

As Io Shirai got the three count, it wasn't her music to play - but the NXT Women's Champion Charlotte Flair's! "The Queen" came marching out to the aisle to boos from the limited array of NXT Universe members in attendance. Climbing into the ring, she appeared pleased as she applauded the efforts of "the Genius of the Sky". A microphone in hand, she told Io she knew she was good - but she didn't have a clue until she saw what she just did. Flair mockingly forgot Vanessa Borne's name, but believed her to be an afterthought anyway, after what Shirai made of her moments ago. "The Queen" explained she was out here to follow up on their little meeting from last week, claiming that this was exactly what she'd waited for. Since becoming NXT Women's Champion at WrestleMania, she had waited for the right challenger to step up - and nobody was more rightful than her. Charlotte spoke of Io Shirai as a globetrotter, someone absurdly talented and decorated internationally.

The question remained - was Io Shirai on "the Queen's" level? Charlotte Flair congratulated "the Genius of the Sky" - her wish was granted. At NXT TakeOver: In Your House, Io was to receive her opportunity at the NXT Women's Championship. Flair stared at Io telling her to use the opportunity wisely - but the challenger snatched the mic from her hand! Staring into her soul, Io claimed in 11 days she was going to fall - but not fall to "the Queen". She would fall from the sky, and when she did, she would become NXT Women's Champion. Wishing the champ luck herself, Shirai offered her a handshake! Flair was stumped but accepted the handshake - when Flair ambushed from behind, putting the boots to the leg. The Figure-8 was teased, but Io kicked her off! Charlotte bounced back into an enzuigiri allowing Shirai to ascend the top rope and look for the Moonsault - only to instead jump down. Io smiled, departing willingly. Flair was left baffled, as Shirai gestured she would be the next champion!

NXT TakeOver: In Your House - NXT Women's Championship - Charlotte Flair (c) vs Io Shirai

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An advertisement aired, promoting all of the merchandise available on WWEShop.com.

A replay aired, showing what happened moments ago when Charlotte Flair interrupted Io Shirai's victory over Vanessa Borne. The NXT Women's Champion granted "the Genius of the Sky's" challenge for NXT TakeOver: In Your House, but when Shirai excuded confidence it infuriated "the Queen". The RAW Superstar ambushed Io and looked to lock in the Figure-8 - only for the challenger to fight back and tease landing the Moonsault. Eleven days before NXT TakeOver, Shirai taunted Flair and instead chose to leave!

During the commercial break, Charlotte Flair furiously kicked over a table full of production equipment in the backstage hallway of the Full Sail University. "The Queen" was distraught over being one-upped by Io Shirai, and she promptly fended off officials who dared come close to her. The NXT Women's Champion picked up a television monitor and slammed it violently on the concrete floor, as she screamed out "the Genius of the Sky's" name! Flair had been incensed by the confidence of her next challenger.

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3) Bronson Reed def. Arturo Ruas (2:11)
- While Bronson Reed wished to have nothing to do with former running buddies Shane Thorne or Brendan Vink, his old friends had found themselves seemingly kidnapped by "the Aus-Zilla's" current major for Dexter Lumis last week. Bronson however did not seem fazed, going into this match with up-and-comer Arturo Ruas. The martial artist looked to gain his first major victory against the freight train, who immediately used his size as an advantage. The Samoan drop got a near fall, when Dexter Lumis was seen lurking in the shadows of Full Sail Arena. Reed spotted him and challenged him to come down, allowing Ruas to come from behind. With three brief rapid kick combinations, Ruas only stunned Bronson, when a King Kong Lariat cut him off! The Death Valley Driver was executed, granting him the win.

"The Aus-Zilla" racked up another impressive win against Arturo Ruas, when in the darker regions of the Full Sail Arena, Shane Thorne and Brendan Vink came from behind on Dexter Lumis! The duo wanted revenge for "the Shadow Walker" putting both men to sleep last week, when Bronson Reed came darting from the ring. "The Aus-Zilla" arrived at the scene, successfully backing Thorne and Vink away. His old friends questioned what he was thinking, bringing Bronson to once again tell them he didn't need nor want them involved in his business! Washing their hands of the situation, they departed - but when Bronson turned back to Dexter - he was gone. Reed looked to members of the NXT Universe for clues, but none of those in attendance had any idea!

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A video package aired, recapping the career-long rivalry between Keith Lee and Dominic Dijakovic. What began in 2016 as a competitive feud between two behemoths naturally evolved into a hate-fuelled rivalry on "the Black and Gold Brand". In four years, both men arrived in NXT and continued their agile and acrobatic disputes, including over the NXT North American Championship. But as time went on, the burning jealousy that consumed Dijakovic would lead to Damian Priest convincing him to do right by him for a change. Putting his career rival on blast, Dominic targeted "the Limitless One" and assaulted him backstage. Enemies once more, the next chapter in their rivalry awaited. A graphic aired, showing that Dijakovic vs Lee was coming up next.

'Money Moves' by Progressive aired, showing a video package recapping the prolific reign of the NXT Champion Adam Cole. Days away from his 365th day as NXT Champion, "the Panama City Playboy's" list of beaten challengers continued to grow - featuring Daniel Bryan, Tommaso Ciampa, Johnny Gargano, Pete Dunne, Matt Riddle, and many more. At NXT TakeOver: In Your House, would Finn Bálor and the Velveteen Dream join that list?

Finn Bálor drank a bottle of water in the dressing room, when in walked the Undisputed Era. NXT Champion Adam Cole led Roderick Strong and Bobby Fish into the room, while "the Prince" remained on-edge. The champ knew they had issues, and while NXT TakeOver: In Your House was the place to throw hands, they came in peace. He noted match tonight or not, they had bigger issues on their hands - Velveteen Dream. Adam considered him a little punk who never needed to scratch and claw for his place in this business. While Finn put blood, sweat and tears into being a young boy in Japan, and he himself had to take bumps on concrete to make his name, all Dream had to do was enter the WWE Performance Center. Cole claimed Dream was immature and didn't deserve to be in their match - but he needed his help. Bálor smiled, remembering it was their fault Dream beat him last week. Finn declined - and declared that one week from Sunday, he expected the NXT Championship shined and waiting for him.

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As the NXT Universe behind the plexiglass buzzed, among them noticably relaxed the NXT North American Champion Damian Priest! "The Archer of Infamy" was spread out on a black leather couch among members of the audience, coolly looking forward to another battle of the monsters between Keith Lee and Dominic Dijakovic.

4) Keith Lee def. Dominic Dijakovic (12:21) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Once again, Keith Lee and Dominic Dijakovic were to lock horns, as the master manipulator of the proceedings Damian Priest made himself at home, spread out on the leather couch in the audience. Dijakovic looked to the NXT North American Champion with a nod, but Keith Lee this time struck with the first blow. Both men came to blows, with "the Limitless One" shockingly sending Dijakovic over the top rope with a pounce. Lee continued with a second one at ringside, boarding Dijakovic into the plexiglass wall! Lee continued inside, looking to put Dijakovic away early with the Spirit Bomb, but a big boot allowed him to fire back. A chokeslam would garner a near fall, when a standing moonsault followed for good measure. "The Archer of Infamy" continued to watch on, the devil of Dijakovic's shoulder!
- Dominic Dijakovic washed the sole of his boot on Keith Lee's temple before applying a cobra clutch over him. Damian Priest now had company in the form of a gothic-looking chick sat on his lap, as Keith Lee looked to make a comeback. Dijakovic cut him off with a backbreaker, when a springboard diving elbow drop scored him a near fall. "The Limitless One" was resilient, as Dominic grounded Keith until he fired up again - to be clotheslined over the top rope. A senton atomico connected, and back inside Dijakovic rushed into the Spirit Bomb! Lee began a comeback culminating in a powerslam, when out at ringside Lee shot from the apron with a shocking moonsault. Keith biel tossed Dijakovic, when the NXT North American Champion banged on the plexiglass! Getting Lee's attention, it left him open for Feast Your Eyes by Dominic - but instead of covering, he instead quizzed what "the Archer of Infamy" was doing! Turning around, Lee shockingly caught Dijakovic with an inside cradle - to claim the three count!

The best served plans of Dominic Dijakovic, as instigated by Damian Priest had backfired, as Keith Lee's hand was raised. "The Limitless One" grinned with his hand raised, while Dijakovic questioned the official's decision. Dominic disputed the outcome, but all the while, NXT North American Champion Damian Priest hit the ring with his nightstick in hand! Slamming it over Keith Lee's spine, the baton saw "the Archer of Infamy" strike Lee's anatomy with it, showing no relent! Priest taunted Keith with the gold in hand, but on his way out - Priest inexplicably dropped Dijakovic with Reckoning for good measure. After using Dijakovic as a puppet for weeks, the champ departed alone - only he, himself and the gold.

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Finn Bálor prepared for the tag team main event against the Undisputed Era, when for a second time in minutes, an intruder stormed his dressing room! The Velveteen Dream stood before him, removing his sunglasses and glaring a hole through "the Prince". Bálor did not appreciate the intrusion, as Dream pointed the finger accusing him of having no conscience. Finn could believe whatever he wanted, and think whatever he wanted - but the moment he doubted the Velveteen Dream was the moment he failed as a man. Dream said he saw the Undisputed Era leave this room - he could sense a set-up from a mile off. Bálor joked Dream was paranoid, but the two went nose-to-nose after a hard shove from the Dream! "The Purple Rainmaker" told Finn that NXT TakeOver: In Your House was one thing, but if he wanted to blow off the tag team match and hop into bed with the UE tonight - he wasn't going to give him the time of day. Finn shoved Dream back prompting fists to nearly fly - separated by two officials! How were these two men going to team up against Adam Cole and Roderick Strong tonight?

A vignette aired, previewing the arrival of Deonna Purrazzo. She narrated the scenes depicted over the past month, with imagery of chess boards, whiteboards comprising of mathematical equations, and a Rubix cube. At all hours of the night in the weight room of the WWE Performance Center, Deonna prepared as she spoke of how the days of comparing women to one-another were over. The competition was in the past, because when she arrived, the entire NXT Universe would know all about it. Deonna claimed the NXT Women's Division would never be the same, because not only was she glamorous, but she was the most intelligent, and the most persuasive. She was "the Virtuosa" - and next week, NXT would find out what a TakeOver truly looked like. Next week - Deonna Purrazzo makes her NXT debut.

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One Added Beat?
As Jake Atlas made his energetic arrival to the Full Sail Arena to a positive reception from the NXT Universe, the talented newcomer was abruptly interrupted by none other than Scarlett! The screen turned to black and white, as Atlas appeared perturbed by the arrival of the mistress of Karrion Kross. Walking with a blank expression, she would sing the tune of Karrion Kross's theme music, entering the ring and disturbing Atlas with her erratic pantomiming of "the Herald of Doomsday's" song! But as Scarlett pranced the ring, there remained no sign of her man - until she confronted Atlas one-on-one. Kross suddenly came from the apron - the Kross Jacket applied, choking Atlas out! The youngster tried to fight it, but a Doomsday Saito would drive Atlas down to the canvas hard. Scarlett took the microphone and leaned up against her man, warning Tommaso Ciampa about the inevitable future which awaited him one week from Sunday.

As Karrion Kross stood imposingly with his arms folded, Scarlett complimented the reckless abandon of "the Blackheart" for continuing to deny the true demolition in which "the Devil of Monterrey" was capable of. She claimed they had warned Tommaso Ciampa that the sands of time were running out, before handing Kross the microphone. Breathing heavily, he compared Ciampa to a tired old dog waiting to be put down at long last. His neck was weak, his body was weaker, and his ego was far beyond its' expiration. But Ciampa could fear no longer, as in less than two weeks, Kross would allow his descent into despair. Tommaso Ciampa then came walking out to the ring without a care! "The Blackheart" did not waste any time in coming down to confront Kross, after weeks of battles back-and-forth. NXT TakeOver: In Your House was a night she couldn't wait for, as the two met on the aisle with fists flying! Neither man would let up, as Ciampa would take the upper hand using a heavy lariat!

Tommaso Ciampa began to pummel Karrion Kross against the steel steps, before rushing him with a knee strike against the steel steps. "The Herald of Doomsday" was in danger as his mistress Scarlett supervised. "The Blackheart" would roll him into the ring and line up the Fairy Tale Ending - but Scarlett would intercept with a kick from behind to the groin! Ciampa collapsed to his knees allowing Kross to respond with a rushing forearm to the back of the head. Scarlett grinned mischievously as her man pummelled Ciampa with more forearms, followed by the Doomsday Saito. Kross let him know this would only continue night after night after night, so long as Ciampa could still stand - when of all people, out stomped Candice LeRae! The wife of Johnny Gargano brought a crutch with her and swung it wildly, prompting Kross and Scarlett to scram from the ring. Unbelievably, Candice had come to Ciampa's aid - the same man who had exiled her husband from NXT! Even Tommaso had no idea what to make of it all.

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Rhea Ripley and Shotzi were wrapping up a conversation in the locker room area, having seemingly cleared the air after the last few weeks. Rhea told "the Batallion" she wished to go through with this Handicap match alone, and Shotzi complied - so long as when Ripley got her two minutes, she also wanted a pop at Robert Stone. With a smirk, Rhea agreed to it before heading for the ring. The former NXT Women's Champion would meet Chelsea Green and Aliyah - up next.

An advertisement aired, with John Cena narrating the story of Dr. Evan Shannon, a doctor who was doing the country proud during timultuous times by dedicating his time and effort to keeping those around him safe. Charlotte Flair told the story of Jill Cardone, someone working in the emergency department of a hospital. On the front-line, she spent her day-to-day putting other people first and protecting them. Triple H spoke of Lisseth DeGracia, a mom who travelled 1,200 miles from Minnesota to New York City, missing birthdays and holidays to help those in need during the pandemic. "Thank A Hero of Your Own" - WWE was in support of The Real Heroes Project.

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5) Rhea Ripley def. Chelsea Green and Aliyah (with Robert Stone) in a Handicap match to earn two minutes alone with Robert Stone (5:09)
- For weeks, it had been Rhea Ripley's intention to get her hands on Robert Stone - even fooling the Robert Stone Brand, appearing to join them. With the challenge made, Rhea targeted the woman who stole a win from her weeks ago, Chelsea Green, as Stone was shown wearing layers upon layers of clothing at ringside. Green and Aliyah overwhelmed Rhea initially, but the former NXT Women's Champion battled back, clobbering Aliyah in the corner and giving Green a powerslam. Stone was concerned, when a distraction from Stone ensured Green the opportunity to sneak in with a chop block. The Robert Stone Brand appeared to be on the same page after weeks of the contrary, but as Aliyah kept Rhea grounded with a full nelson with her legs, Ripley turned it around with a wheelbarrow suplex! Ripley made a comeback mowing down both. Green snuck in looking for I'm Prettier, but Ripley sent her into Stone on the apron! Aliyah was in harm's way, the recipient of the Rip Tide granting Ripley victory!

Layered Like An Onion
Rhea Ripley was dominant in overcoming the Robert Stone Brand, and looked to a petrified Robert Stone at ringside. Stone, who had to be wearing five layers of clothes in the month of May, backed away in fear up the aisleway. He looked to escape time alone with Ripley - when Shotzi rode out to the stage in her tank! Stone had nowhere left to run, especially when "the Batallion" began to drive Stone back towards the ring. Tripping over himself at ringside, Ripley would drag the image consultant back into the ring. She and Shotzi stripped Stone of his layers upon layers of clothes, leaving him in only a pink pair of boxer-briefs! Shotzi removed her leather belt as Rhea restrained him - when Chelsea Green came from behind with a steel chair shot to the spine of Rhea! Shotzi stood defensively - when Aliyah came from behind with the Boujee Buster. As Stone scrambled to put a black pair of pants back on, the Robert Stone left Rhea and Shotzi down in the ring - but this would not stop them from coming back for more.

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Last week, McKenzie Mitchell stood by with Tyler Breeze. With "Prince Pretty's" storied history in NXT documented, the broadcast journalist questioned where Tyler had been recently, and why he chose to decline participating in the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament. Tyler explained he was taking time out to regroup and recompose, when the Brian Kendrick appeared. Furious after being beaten by Oney Lorcan, the veteran questioned why McKenzie was wasting her time interviewing a joke like Tyler. Brian called Tyler a skidmark on "the Black and Gold Brand", whereas he was the Original Cruiserweight. Breeze responded claiming Kendrick was not a lot better, having seen his track record. Breeze told Kendrick to face the facts - he was hanging on for dear life. Breeze turned to leave, when Kendrick jumped him. A brief skirmish took place, with Kendrick backed off by officials!

205 Live - The Brian Kendrick vs Tyler Breeze

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While hostilities were arising headed into 205 Live this coming week between the Brian Kendrick and Tyler Breeze, up next would determine the victor of the A-Block of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament. A video package aired, showing highlights of how El Hijo Del Fantasma and Isaiah "Swerve" Scott made it to where they are today. Both men were at the top of the block - but only one could go to NXT TakeOver: In Your House, and challenge Kushida for the gold.

6) El Hijo Del Fantasma (6pts - 3-0) def. Isaiah Scott (2pts - 1-2) in an A-Block match of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament (8:29) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Earlier tonight, Kushida cemented his spot in the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals one week from Sunday at NXT TakeOver: In Your House - but it remained to be seen who he would meet, out of El Hijo Del Fantamsa and Isaiah "Swerve" Scott. While a handshake got things underway, the back-and-forth initially saw El Hijo Del Fantasma gain the upper hand prompting a stand-off between the two participants. "Swerve" responded with some lucha libre of his own, a double dropkick seeing both men once again brought to a stalemate! The action continued with "the King of Swerve Style" dropping the luchador with a jumping DDT, when Space Jam was executed early - just to see Fantamsa hang on for dear life!
- Isaiah Scott looked to do whatever it took to keep El Hijo Del Fantasma down for the count. "Swerve" looked for the Swerve Stomp, but the luchador sidestepped - before catching Scott with a spinning headscissors into an armdrag! A topé wiped out "Swerve", when back inside a diving hurricanrana from the top rope only garnered a two-count. Fantasma looked to follow up with the Phantom Driver, but Scott followed through with a victory roll for a near fall. Scott landed the House Call, but again Fantasma powered out! "Swerve" was dead set on going to the finals of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament, as the action reached the top rope. Looking for a top rope hurricanrana, Fantasma flipped out onto his feet! "Swerve" was stunned, and looked for the JML Driver - just to eat the Phantom Driver instead. Fantasma was headed to NXT TakeOver: In Your House!

Another gripping Cruiserweight showcase brought the A-Block of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament to a close. El Hijo Del Fantasma was hurting but victorious, and celebrated as the limited NXT Universe members in attendance at Full Sail University saluted him. Isaiah Scott rolled out to the floor, but as Fantasma continued to celebrate the win against "Swerve", out walked Kushida to the aisleway! Interrupting him, "the Time Splitter" simply stood at the top of the stage and clapped for Fantasma with a smile on his face. Respect shown - the Finals of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament had been set: Kushida against Fantasma at NXT TakeOver: In Your House.

NXT TakeOver: In Your House - NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals - El Hijo Del Fantasma vs Kushida

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Ever-Rise Live Gets A Facelift
Cutting to their studio, Ever-Rise sat at their desk energetically greeting the NXT Universe and welcoming everybody to another rousing edition of Ever-Rise Live. Matt Martel continued to brag about their big win against Keith Lee and Dominic Dijakovic two weeks ago, while Chase Parker mused that they were NXT Tag Team Championship material without a shadow of a doubt. Matt then wished to discuss the drama that happened last week, when two psychos in Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch decided to ruin their night off. The two were livid to have had their afforded vacation by NXT General Manager William Regal gone sabotaged by the two brutes, which was why they had took it upon themselves to be the bigger men. Introducing their special guests, the camera panned out to reveal Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch. The two were quiet and unsure what to make of it, as Martel and Parker quizzed the duo on what made them compelling. The two continued to ignore the co-hosts, frustrating Martel.

Chase Parker joked at the expense of Oney Lorcan for barely scraping a win in the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament, but once again he remained unreceptive. Danny Burch and Oney proceeded to have a conversation amongst themselves, while Matt Martel told his buddy this was a colossal waste of time. They had the personalities of paint drying! Ever-Rise had a failure to communicate with Lorcan and Burch, when the two suddenly got up and began to fight with Parker and Martel! All business, Ever-Rise would be ran from their own set by the two ruffians - who proceeded to shatter Ever-Rise's custom mug, and flip their desk! Now vocal and wanting to go, Lorcan and Burch had no time for the chicanery of Ever-Rise Live!

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Finn Bálor departed his dressing room after some interesting conversations tonight, with not only Adam Cole with the Undisputed Era, but with his supposed tag team partner Velveteen Dream. As speculation had spread across Full Sail University that Dream had alleged to have left the building after his confrontation with "the Prince", Bálor was set for tag team action against the NXT Champion and Roderick Strong - the main event coming up next.

Can't Find the Staff
Dakota Kai stood backstage with Raquel González watching over her in silence. Addressing her former friend Tegan Nox, their rivalry had been going on for months, and no matter what she tried to do, she just continued to float back to the top. She had had enough, because it was time "King Kota" put this petty feud behind them in order to ascend to greater heights. She claimed she could not get the staff, which offended González, though the Kiwi continued. With a challenge for "the Girl with the Shiniest Wizard", 'Kota vowed to end this nonsense once and for all in a Fight to a Finish next week - promising to keep her muscle backstage. González was gobsmacked, as Kai proposed Tegan keep Mia Yim the hell away too. 'Kota claimed Team Kick would die once and for all next week, and she would be the victor when it was all said and done! González questioned what Kai's problem was, though she simply walked away.

Next week - Fight to a Finish - Dakota Kai vs Tegan Nox

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Mauro Ranallo, Tom Phillips and Beth Phoenix discussed NXT TakeOver: In Your House in less than two weeks. After a big night, much had been added to the show on June 17, including the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals; the NXT North American Championship match, as well as the NXT Women's Championship match! What would happen next week, on the go-home edition of NXT?

NXT Championship - Triple Threat match - Adam Cole (c) vs Finn Bálor vs Velveteen Dream
Tommaso Ciampa vs Karrion Kross
NXT Women's Championship - Charlotte Flair (c) vs Io Shirai
NXT North American Championship - Damian Priest (c) vs Keith Lee
NXT Interim Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals - El Hijo Del Fantasma vs Kushida

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7) NXT Champion Adam Cole and Roderick Strong (with Bobby Fish) def. Finn Bálor and Velveteen Dream by disqualification (8:33) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- With the Velveteen Dream alleged to have left the building after a tense discussion with Finn Bálor earlier tonight, "the Prince" was left without a tag team partner against Adam Cole and Roderick Strong of the Undisputed Era. While Dream no-showed to his music cues, Bálor made no gripes in attacking the UE immediately. With eyes on the NXT Champion, Cole received a basement dropkick for a near fall early, when 1916 was attempted - just for Strong to save his buddy. From there, Bálor continued to fight valiantly against the three members of the Undisputed Era, as even Bobby Fish involved himself with a big boot through the ropes! "The Panama City Playboy" was insufferable in running his mouth, when Bálor fired back with the Pelé kick knocking him out. Finn prepared to fight back with the Sling Blade connecting on Strong - when Cole cut him off with the Florida Keys!
- Roderick Strong slapped Finn Bálor around as NXT rolled on, with still no sign of the Velveteen Dream. The Sick Kick garnered only a near fall for "the Master of the Backbreaker", when a series of backbreaker saw "the Prince" continue to keep in the fight. Adam Cole talked trash and told Finn he warned him, but as the NXT Champion ascended to the second rope, Finn dropkicked Cole in mid-air! The Panama Sunrise was intercepted with Finn firing on all cylinders - including taking an inbound Bobby Fish out with a brainbuster. Cole struck with a superkick, as he and Strong closed in - when out ran the Velveteen Dream! "The Purple Rainmaker" had arrived to even the odds at long last, immediately striking Roddy with his purple bat!

As the referee rang for the bell due to disqualification, the Velveteen Dream chased Adam Cole from the ring and stood tall. Motioning that the NXT Championship would be his at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, Dream had the Undisputed Era back up the aisleway. Roderick Strong clutched his ribcage from the shot from the purple bat, as Dream helped Finn Bálor to his feet...before striking him with a shot to the ribcage for good measure! A second blow struck Finn in the spine, when Dream Over dropped "the Prince" to the canvas. The new attitude of the Dream had left members of the NXT Universe speechless, with his eyes locked on the NXT Champion. "The Panama City Playboy" had to be concerned about "the Purple Rainmaker", as the Triple Threat match grew nigh!

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NXT INTERIM CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP TOURNAMENT

PTS A-BLOCK B-BLOCK PTS
6 [3-0] El Hijo Del Fantasma Kushida 6 [3-0]
2 [1-2] Isaiah Scott Cameron Grimes 4 [2-1]
2 [1-2] Oney Lorcan Jake Atlas 2 [1-2]
2 [1-2] The Brian Kendrick Tony Nese 0 [0-3]

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DTP · Dec 18, 2022

NXT TakeOver: In Your House - June 7, 2020
Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida
"Underneath" by Code Orange

LESS THAN TWO WEEKS AWAY!

NXT CHAMPIONSHIP
Finn Bálor vs Adam Cole (c) vs Velveteen Dream

NXT WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP
Charlotte Flair (c) vs Io Shirai

Tommaso Ciampa vs Karrion Kross

NXT NORTH AMERICAN CHAMPIONSHIP
Damian Priest (c) vs Keith Lee

NXT INTERIM CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Kushida vs El Hijo Del Fantasma

More to be announced!

DTP · Dec 19, 2022

Friday Night SmackDown #1084 – May 29, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by

LESS THAN TWO WEEKS FROM BACKLASH!

205 Live #181 – May 29, 2020
- Jake Atlas def. Tehuti Miles with the LGB-DDT. Atlas was interviewed after the match about Karrion Kross, when Tony Nese interrupted. Nese insulted Atlas and his physique, prompting Atlas to drop him with a pump kick. (6:26)
- The Brian Kendrick def. Tyler Breeze with Captain Hook. Kendrick ambushed Breeze before the bell to gain an advantage. Kendrick re-applied the hold after the bell. (7:00)

A video package aired, recapping the elimination tag team match from last week's Friday Night SmackDown. WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy had back-up in the form of Daniel Bryan, Drew Gulak and Apollo Crews to support him against Sheamus and the Artist Collective, but ultimately would be beaten by none other than Shinsuke Nakamura. It led to a confrontation between an uneasy "Celtic Warrior" and "the Artist", as with a pinfall victory against "the Charismatic Enigma", Shin was now the one in contention for a shot at the WWE Universal Championship! And so, a 'Meeting of the Artists' would take place when Jeff Hardy put his recently-won title on the line against "the King of Strong Style - tonight!

The opening video package aired, bringing us to the WWE Performance Center for Friday Night SmackDown. Members of the WWE Universe were present in attendance, much like on Monday Night RAW and NXT this past week - each socially distanced and tested prior to entry. The NXT and WWE Performance Center prospects made noise and banged their fists against the plexiglass, as Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed us to the show.

The Return of an Olympian
As advertised all week long, the arrival of Kurt Angle kicked Friday Night SmackDown off with a bang! Making his way down to the ring in a suit, the Olympic Gold Medalist was in significant condition as he playfully bounced off the ropes. The WWE Hall of Famer received a hero's welcome from the people, as he talked about how alien all of this was. This was not quite the SmackDown he remembered, but the talent were above and beyond the talent he once competed against. Kurt confessed how it had been a hot minute since he was last here on "the Blue Brand", and how all day he'd been thinking about memories of being a SmackDown Superstar, himself. He remembered battling a tenacious no-name rookie by the name of John Cena; capturing the WCW Championship against Booker T in his hometown of Pittsburgh; and how could he forget the classic Iron Man match he fought against Brock Lesnar for the WWE Championship?

"The Olympic Hero" admitted it had only been a year since he last stepped between the ropes at WrestleMania 35, but he had a fear of missing out - and clearly, he had missed out on a lot! There was so much great talent on Friday Night SmackDown he would have loved to lock horns with; because nobody in the current generation went like he ever did - and the one man who came to mind was a certain "GOAT" called Daniel Bryan - wishing for him to come on out to the ring! Daniel Bryan answered the call, smiling as Angle extended the hand to "the Yes Man". Angle confessed to being a massive fan of his talents, commenting on how there was absolutely nothing he could do that was anything like Daniel's. Bryan contested that, bringing up Kurt's ability to win the 1996 Olympic Games - with a broken freaking neck! Nonetheless, it was great to hear from a four-time WWE Champion like himself.

Kurt Angle told Daniel Bryan likewise, because he had never known somebody to come back from career-ending injury and make it back to the WWE Championship either! But as much as their career ran parallel to each other, he couldn't help but envy Daniel - because he was the one still able to do this. Making it clear to "the Yes Man", the Olympic Gold Medalist let it be known that if there was one man he could fight in this ring - it was him. Daniel grinned, as Kurt told Daniel he would make him tap to the Ankle Lock: or he would make him snap! Bryan deflected, countering that he would have Kurt screaming "YES! YES! YES!" before he even knew it when he got him in the Yes Lock. The two's friendly discussion saw them go nose-to-nose. Suddenly, out came Sami Zayn! The WWE Intercontinental Champion told Kurt Angle how good it was to see him again, walking down the rampway and commenting on how the last time "the Olympic Hero" saw him, he said if he could fight one man, it would have been Sami Zayn.

"The Great Liberator" claimed Kurt Angle was two-timing on the WWE Intercontinental Champion. "The Yes Man" smiled, reminding Sami Zayn he was the same guy who had ducked him for weeks. Daniel Bryan said he wanted the title he owned, but Sami laughed it off. Bringing up Kurt being the first WWE Eurocontinental Champion, nobody remembered Daniel's last reign as champ. Meanwhile, everybody would remember his own reign! Sami propped an arm over Kurt's shoulder, but the WWE Hall of Famer suggested they find out - proposing they meet for the title! Sami argued Kurt was a special guest and had no authority - but "the Olympic Gold Medalist" begged to differ. To be a special guest, he negotiated with FOX executives the right to make decisions, since he was once the SmackDown General Manager! Angle made it official - Zayn defending the WWE Intercontinental Championship against Daniel Bryan at Backlash: it's true, it's true! Sami was left stunned, as Bryan applauded the WWE Legend.

Backlash - WWE Intercontinental Championship - Sami Zayn (c) vs Daniel Bryan

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Michael Cole and Corey Graves discussed the WWE Intercontinental Championship match made by tonight's special guest to Friday Night SmackDown, Kurt Angle, before discussing what was coming up tonight, in form of graphics. In 'the Meeting of the Artists', Jeff Hardy would defend the WWE Universal Championship against Shinsuke Nakamura; SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz would put Heavy Machinery to the test in the 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame'; but coming up next - the New Day had a chance to get even with the Forgotten Sons!

WWE Universal Championship - Jeff Hardy (c) vs Shinsuke Nakamura
Fifteen Minutes of Fame - SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz vs Heavy Machinery
The Forgotten Sons vs The New Day
Lacey Evans vs Tamina - if Lacey wins, she receives another opportunity at the SmackDown Women's Championship

Friday Night SmackDown on FOX was sponsored tonight by Progressive - the first-round choice for auto insurance.

Kurt Angle was thrilled with his return to Friday Night SmackDown as he walked the hall backstage, before encountering an old foe - King Corbin! In his crone and cowl, he mused how long it had been since he last saw the Olympic Gold Medalist. The WWE Hall of Famer smiled back, admitting he liked his crown - he himself was a former King of the Ring winner. Corbin was quick to remind Kurt why he was no longer able to compete in WWE - because he was responsible for his retirement at WrestleMania 35! The King regarded himself as "Wrestling Royalty", but Kurt laughed. The King claimed to have use for Kurt, knowing he had power of authority. Wanting a piece of the scruffy savage who assaulted him last week Drew Gulak. "The Olympic Hero" claimed it was his lucky day: because tonight, he'd have the chance to get choked out again! Corbin was glad, when he realized Kurt had made fun of him!

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1) The New Day def. The Forgotten Sons (with Wesley Blake) (5:27)
- The Forgotten Sons had a mission statement coming to Friday Night SmackDown, and it started successfully with a previous win against the New Day. Big E and Kofi Kingston were ready for the numbers disadvantage and quickly knocked Wesley Blake off the apron, soon overwhelming Jaxson Ryker and Steve Cutler! Big E lit Ryker up at ringside while Kofi scored with a leaping ten punches in the corner for Blake. Big E and Kofi double-teamed Cutler when Blake distracted allowing Ryker to come in illegally with a neckbreaker for Big E. The Forgotten Sons cornered Big E and grounded him, with tags seeing the two put the boots to Big E in the corner. A spinebuster saw Big E rebound, but a military press saw Ryker save Cutler, and a double DDT connected. Big E escaped the Lost and the Damned, and Kofi made the tag! The S.O.S. landed on Cutler, when Ryker came in - only to be speared from the apron by Big E! Blake tried passing the lead pipe to Cutler, but Kofi caught it and throttled him for the win!

The New Day had used the lead pipe against the Forgotten Sons, as Kofi Kingston slyly slid the infamous weapon out to the floor. Big E joined his longtime friend in the ring, as the two squared off looking for another fight with Jaxson Ryker and Wesley Blake. They helped Steve Cutler from the ring and aided him in heading to the back, while inside, Big and Kofi grooved and paraded with the pipe.

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Earlier today, footage aired showing the arrival of the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy at the WWE Performance Center. With the title in tow, without facepaint on his face as of yet, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" was looking to get even with Shinsuke Nakamura - ahead of 'the Meeting of the Artists' with the title on the line, tonight.

The Artist is Ready
Shinsuke Nakamura sat on a red leather couch in his artistic garb, casually talking about how nobody expected it - but they should have. "The Artist" wanted the WWE Universe to remember he was no normal man - he was "the King of Strong Style". Clips of Shin in action aired, as Nakamura listed his accolades - the 2018 Men's Royal Rumble winner; the two-time NXT Champion; and the Artist Collective's hardest hitter. Nakamura claimed to admire "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior", but wished for him to understand tonight was about more than business. He was here to collect the WWE Universal Championship - and that was YeaOH!

Cesaro watched the television monitor backstage, nodding his head in approval of fellow Artist Collective member Shinsuke Nakamura. Meanwhile, the WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn continued to stomp back and forth in protest of Kurt Angle's decision made. "The Great Liberator" claimed this was some sick joke, that he had to defend the title against Daniel Bryan. Sami claimed he was always better than "the Yes Man", and everybody agreed. A voice claimed nobody agreed - and up walked Apollo Crews. Cesaro got in his face as Sami questioned what Apollo had ever done to think he could step to the Artist Collective! Apollo brought up schooling his boy "the Swiss Cyborg" last week in the elimination tag team match. Cesaro got mad and claimed it to be a fluke, when Sami told Apollo to come back when he had the support of anybody who actually gave a damn about him. Apollo claimed last week was a good start, before wishing Sami luck not getting tapped out at Backlash!

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2) Dolph Ziggler def. Shorty G (5:29)
- After "the Show Off's" disappointing loss to Tucker in the No-Disqualification match, this bout between a former Olympian and a former collegiate wrestle was made by special guest Kurt Angle. Dolph took the early advantage, but a second meeting on the mat saw G slap the back of Ziggler's head! Bewildered, Ziggler admitted fault and offered to shake his hand, when a cheap shot allowed the veteran the advantage. Shorty G fired back with a monkey flip sending Dolph 450-degrees - but Ziggler responded with a dropkick! Showboating, Dolph's confidence knew no bounds when Shorty G used his strength to fight a sleeper hold, only to receive a neckbreaker! Shorty G responded with a rolling clutch cradle for a near fall, followed by an enzuigiri. The German suplex was bridged for a close two-count, when Shorty looked to follow with the moonsault - just for Ziggler to roll aside. The Super Kick connected, granting Dolph the three-count!

Dolph Ziggler appeared back in the swing of things after the bad loss to Tucker last week, defeating Shorty G tonight. "The Show Off" ran his mouth and celebrated in the ring, when suddenly the video screen lit up with static! As the text synonymous with "The Hacker" revealed "the Truth Will Be Heard", CCTV footage brought us to a hotel reception, as a woman was told by the front desk to wait for her room key to become available. Onto the scene walked Dolph Ziggler, who immediately made eyes for the attractive young woman! Ziggler made a move and hinted that they could take a trip to his room while the hotel finished cleaning her's. Dolph made it abundantly clear of his intentions, and the woman slapped him across the face! As the WWE Universe members in attendance laughed at Dolph's expense, he was left embarrassed once again by whomever "the Hacker" may be!

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A replay aired, taking us back to Friday Night SmackDown from March 20, 2020. Heavy Machinery stormed the ring and challenged John Morrison and The Miz for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships, only for Otis to drop the ball in losing to the Skull Crushing Finale courtesy of "the A-Lister". While Otis blew a fuse after the match, in response to a distraction from Dolph Ziggler, up next Heavy Machinery had a chance at earning their 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' - if they beat the champs they would earn another title opportunity. It was coming up next!

An advertisement aired, promoting the upcoming schedule for FS1 next Tuesday. At 7PM Eastern, the world would relive the events of WrestleMania 31 - headlined by Roman Reigns challenging Brock Lesnar for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, from Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. Following that would see a new edition of 'WWE Backstage', as hosted by Renee Young and Booker T - nearly five hours of WWE content was coming up on FS1!

Tamina looked mean, as the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks spoke privately in the dressing room. "The Bouncer" warmed up for her match with Lacey Evans, while "the Legit Boss" questioned how good an idea it was bringing Tamina into the fold. Bayley claimed Tamina may have dropped the ball last week, but she was still tougher and smarter than "the First Lady". Bayley mocked Lacey and her can-do attitude, claiming her little stunt last week proved nothing except that she was going to get her bell rung by "the Bouncer". Tamina blurted she was going to sweep the floor with Lacey's head, and Bayley agreed she would! Leaning in close to her, "Bayley 2 Belts" warned Tamina she needed to beat Lacey, otherwise she'd have to put the title at stake against Lacey again. She claimed nobody wanted that, to which Tamina agreed. The WWE Women's Tag Team Champions watched her leave, as they had everything riding on "the Bouncer".

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"The Hottest Fifteen Minutes on FOX Each Week"
Returning to the WWE Performance Center, the SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz made their strut down to the ring. For the third straight week, the champs prepared to offer title contention to allcomers in 'the Fifteen Minutes of Fame'. "The A-Lister" opened for the duo, welcoming back the WWE Universe to the most must-see duo going on Friday Night SmackDown today - John Morrison and The Miz! The co-hosts of 'the Dirt Sheet' were met with boos, as "the Shaman of Sexy" told them that jealousy was a hideous trait to have. Continuing to address the people, Miz bragged about how they all should be lucky for the fact that up next, they were rapidly approaching "the Hottest Fifteen Minutes on FOX Each Week" - 'the Fifteen Minutes of Fame'. JoMo recapped their past victories, with wins against Apollo Crews and Shorty G; and last week, Lucha House Party. Morrison claimed the WWE were blessed to have them as SmackDown Tag Team Champions.

John Morrison argued they risked their gorgeous bodies each and every week on anybody wanting an opportunity, and they put their bods at stake for the adulation of the WWE Universe! The people booed in response, as Morrison demanded gratitude, only for Miz to claim he was expecting far too much. Mercifully, Heavy Machinery made their way out to the ring for their shot at the champs. Otis and Tucker were riding high of late, as Mandy Rose accompanied him. "The A-Lister" warned Otis not to blow it for "the Blue Collar Boys" again - reminding them that they only had one shot at having their 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame'. With a gameface on, Otis kissed his "Precious Peach" - and he and Tucker took to the ring!

3) Heavy Machinery (with Mandy Rose) def. SmackDown Tag Team Champions John Morrison and The Miz in a 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' match (8:19) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- John Morrison and The Miz had been untouchable in their reign as SmackDown Tag Team Champions in spite of their self-set 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' challenges, notably overcoming Apollo Crews and Shorty G and the Lucha House Party; but as Heavy Machinery hit the ring, the challengers rapidly took control. Otis and Tucker had waited for this opportunity for months, as Mandy Rose watched her boys take control. A double noggin-knocker sent Miz into Morrison in the center, when a double flapjack took "the Shaman of Sexy" for a ride! Tucker connected with the cannonball for a near fall, when "the A-Lister" was keen to drag his tag partner from the ring. Morrison was temporarily out of it, and it petrified Miz - all while "the Blue Collar Boys" were prepared to go for the win. The time was ticking!
- Returning from the commercial break with 11:11 remaining, 'the Fifteen Minutes of Fame' rolled on with John Morrison in the driver's seat. A replay from moments ago showed Miz and Morrison cut Tucker off and send him crashing into the plexiglass-walled barricade. The champs were consistent isolating "Tucky", as Morrison dove on his back allowing for Yes Kicks from Miz. The SmackDown Tag Team Champions planted Tucker with a double DDT, but as Miz looked for the flying clothesline in the corner, he caught him with the uranage! Otis tagged in and ran rampant with a spinebuster for Miz, and one for JoMo on top of him! His Unstoppable, he catching JoMo on his shoulders and Miz in his arms - connecting with a fallaway slam and Samoan drop, simultaneously! Otis missed a corner splash and Miz tried the Skull Crushing Finale, intercepted by Tucker, who sent him to the floor. All alone, Morrison ran into the Compactor - granting "the Blue Collar Boys" the win with 6:41 on the clock!

Mandy Rose was overjoyed with the victory achieved by "the Blue Collar Boys", who had not only beaten 'the Fifteen Minutes of Fame', but had overcame the SmackDown Tag Team Champions! Otis and Tucker hugged it out in the ring, having earned themselves a future opportunity at John Morrison and The Miz's titles. Meanwhile, Miz and Morrison appeared panicked and outraged at ringside - even daring to blame the referee! Otis kissed "Tucky" on the cheek in celebration, before sweeping his "Precious Peach" into his arms and planting a huge kiss on her!

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Sarah Schreiber was in the dressing room with the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy, as she asked the warpaint-wearing champ for his thoughts headed into 'the Meeting of the Artists'. Jeff chuckled, claiming he and Shinsuke Nakamura were many things. They were artists, they expressed themselves in their own ways, they were each admirers of music - but above everything else, they were free spirits. Jeff claimed he endured a lot of grief to make it back to the place he was at. He nearly lost it all, but he wasn't giving up nor would he ever. What Shin failed to understand is that it didn't matter how many times you fell, so long as you got back up again. Jeff claimed he was not going to lose it all, and tonight he would retain his title.

An advertisement aired, promoting this coming week on Monday Night RAW. As Backlash awaits, Kevin Owens comes off his wild brawl with Samoa Joe with a huge WrestleMania rematch against "the Monday Night Messiah" Seth Rollins. Plus, Randy Orton would address WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre; in a number one contender's match Natalya and Liv Morgan would meet the Riott Squad and the Iiconics; and Ricochet would meet Bobby Lashley one-on-one. Monday Night RAW was coming up on Monday from 8 PM Eastern on the USA Network.

Fire, Desire & Steel
Following a replay showing what transpired before the commercial break, Kayla Braxton was standing by backstage with Heavy Machinery and Mandy Rose. Otis and Tucker were loud and full of energy after defeating John Morrison and The Miz in 'the Fifteen Minutes of Fame', as Otis hollered aloud that they were gonna be the next SmackDown Tag Team Champions! "Tucky" wooed and celebrated alongside him, as Otis departed his "Precious Peach". Kayla asked Mandy what had to be going through her mind seeing "the Blue Collar Boys" on cloud nine. "The Golden Goddess" claimed that they weren't the only ones. While nothing made her happier than seeing her hunky adonis win big, she could not remember a time like right now. She truly was the happiest she had been in a long, long time. Sonya Deville approached the scene, asking Mandy how she was enjoying life after Fire & Desire. Mandy gritted her teeth as Sonya claimed Rose had some nerve trying to move on so quickly from what they had.

Mandy Rose told Sonya Deville she could not wait to give her the beating she deserved at Backlash, but Sonya told Mandy how disingenuous she was. It was so easy for her to bury a friendship, and one had to wonder what that meant for her "hunky adonis" Otis. She quizzed "the Golden Goddess" on what good friends were for anyway, while Mandy asked her if she really wanted to do this now, ahead of June 14. Deville continued to ignore her and instead talked over her, claiming she was never Mandy's friend. Instead, Mandy's true friend was every single guy she ever fawned over, because that was the kind of skank she was! Mandy swung for her former friend, when Sonya blocked the strike and caught her with a knee lift. The two got into a fight, seeing Deville send Mandy face-first into the steel shutter door! Mandy was left down and out, as her head bounced off the steel. Deville was backed away by producers, who checked on Rose. Sonya declared that she was "the Law", and would prove it at Backlash.

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Ahead of "the Bouncer's" match coming up against Lacey Evans, SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Sasha Banks made their way out to the ringside area. The WWE Women's Tag Team Champions were full of confidence despite the unexpected ambush from "the First Lady" last week, as the two joined Michael Cole and Corey Graves on commentary. "The Legit Boss" insulted Cole, while "Bayley 2 Belts" complained about having to watch Monday Night RAW this week to see who would be named their number one contenders! Bayley reiterated having complete faith in Tamina, whilst Sasha remained tightlipped about their new accomplice.

4) Lacey Evans def. Tamina to earn another opportunity at the SmackDown Women's Championship (3:29)
- "The First Lady" felt robbed at Money in the Bank and was driven to receive another opportunity at Bayley, as Tamina hit the ring and looked to make short work of her. Lacey ducked and attacked the legs where she could. Looking to chop the larger veteran down to size with leg kicks, Tamina would catch a kick only to receive the enzuigiri. A springboard saw "the Bouncer" catch her with a spinout slam for a near fall, as Bayley and Sasha Banks voiced their disdain for Lacey. Evans kicked out of a side slam, when Tamina missed a splash from the second rope! A step-up clothesline from out of the corner took Tamina down, followed by a diving crossbody from the second rope. "Bayley 2 Belts" asked "the Legit Boss" to give Tamina a helping hand, and she complied - only to be struck by a baseball slide from "the First Lady!" Tamina stunned her with a headbutt, but the Woman's Right struck out of nowhere. With La Magistral, Evans sealed her fate - earning another shot at the SmackDown Women's Championship!

Sasha Banks slipped into the ring chasing Lacey Evans from it, but "the First Lady" did not have a care in the world! "The Legit Boss" threw a mini-tantrum in the middle of the ring, while Bayley protested the fact that she could have two title defenses to make within a seven-day span! Michael Cole argued that's what she got for being "Bayley 2 Belts", which did not delight the SmackDown Women's Champion and WWE Women's Tag Team Champion. Bayley threw down her headset and stepped atop the announce table, raising the title high in opposition to Lacey.

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A graphic aired, revealing another addition made to the line-up for WWE Backlash - live, exclusively on the WWE Network on Sunday, June 14. The SmackDown Tag Team Championships would be on the line, as Otis and Tucker of Heavy Machinery would receive their 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame', against John Morrison and The Miz!

SmackDown Tag Team Championship - John Morrison and The Miz (c) vs Heavy Machinery

An advertisement aired, promoting WWE Backlash. "Destiny Calls" to the WWE Superstars of today, as much hangs in the balance on Sunday, June 14 - live on the award-winning WWE Network.

Can't Run Forever
Sarah Schreiber was backstage standing by with Lacey Evans, who was emotional after defeating Tamina to earn another opportunity at the SmackDown Women's Championship. "The First Lady" claimed so many people thought she was just another pretty face, but there was a lot more than met the eye. She got into this business because she wanted to prove all the naysayers wrong. It was no secret life was not easy for her growing up, and that much remained true. Bayley and Sasha Banks had ran on long enough, but "Bayley 2 Belts" could not run forever. At Money in the Bank she was robbed, but next week her biggest dream would come true - because she was going to hit Bayley where it hurt. She could invite "the Legit Boss" and "the Bouncer" for all she cared, because she was going to bring some friends of her own. Lacey named the time and place for her rematch - next week, in a Lumberjack match! Evans left, as Sarah relayed the information. Meanwhile, "the Hacker's" static appeared on the monitor behind her.

Next week - SmackDown Women's Championship - Lumberjack match - Bayley (c) vs Lacey Evans

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5) King Corbin def. Drew Gulak (5:12)
- "The Militant Mat-Mite" got revenge for King Corbin stealing his spot in the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder match two weeks ago, choking Corbin out in a backstage attack with the Gu-Lock. Last week Corbin got revenge with a trainer's office ambush on Drew, and went to Kurt Angle to have tonight's match made. Corbin swung for Gulak with haymakers early, but the King of the Ring winner would be surprised by a sudden headbutt from the underdog! The training partner of Daniel Bryan grappled Corbin down to the mat, when "Wrestling Royalty" ducked out to ringside. Gulak followed, only to be sent into the steel steps! Corbin insulted and underestimated Drew when a brief comeback saw Corbin cut him off with the Deep Six for a near fall. The King continued to slap Gulak around, until he began Hulking up in Hulk Hogan fashion! His fighting spirit brought him to life, but after firing with lefts and rights, Gulak hit the ropes only to walk into the End of Days - giving Corbin the win.

The limited capacity members of the WWE Universe booed King Corbin, as he wiped his hands of Drew Gulak. The King came to his feet and had the referee raise his fists in triumph, when "Wrestling Royalty" decided he wasn't yet finished with "the Militant Mat-Mite!" Corbin continued to put the boots to him, soon picking him up just for Drew to reverse out of a second End of Days - into the Gu-Lock! Corbin tried to fight it with everything he had, but soon enough the King was put to sleep as the referee finally dragged Gulock from the hold. Corbin was left unresponsive!

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Shinsuke Nakamura concluded stretching his legs against a brick wall in the backstage area. Joined by the WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn and Cesaro, the Artist Collective had "the Artist's" back headed into the main event. "The King of Strong Style" had warpaint on of his own to reflect Jeff Hardy, who appeared on a splitscreen. The WWE Universal Champion looked deeply into the reflection of his title, before setting off down the hall. With the gold on the line, 'the Meeting of the Artists' was coming up next.

Wakey Wakey
After a replay aired showing the events of Drew Gulak fighting a post-match beating courtesy of King Corbin, "the Militant Mat-Mite" was successful in not only fighting, but once again choked Corbin out with the Gu-Lock! Footage aired from during the commercial break, depicting three referee in the ring looking to try and revive an unconscious King Corbin. Sent to sleep, the referees knelt and spoke among themselves, when the King of the Ring winner arose! Startled, shocked and humiliated, the distraught King scared the referees off. Furiously, he called out for Gulak!

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On-Strike but Rebuilding, on the Firefly Fun House
In an unannounced edition of 'the Firefly Fun House', the title sequence aired bringing us to Bray Wyatt's asylum. In the Fun House, the main star sat in yoga pants and a stained T-shirt chowing down on popcorn beside Huskus the Pig. Bray laughed maniacally and provided running commentary whilst Huskus oinked contently, as the two watched the television set showing The Fiend's greatest moments - choking out the likes of John Cena, Seth Rollins, Daniel Bryan, Kane, Finn Bálor and The Miz. Ramblin' Rabbit popped up on the counter, asking the two what they were doing. It brought Bray to his feet, as he informed him this was their little slumber party. Huskus claimed The Fiend was the baddest horror movie villain alive, when Mercy the Buzzard appeared in his cardboard box, preaching about how Fiend was no character. He was realer than real, and bad to the bone. Wyatt told Rabbit how all his little "Fireflies" thought The Fiend was the coolest, because he brought to life their greatest fantasies.

Bray Wyatt romanticized the chaos and anarchy The Fiend was capable of, how he did what all his little "Fireflies" wished they could do. He then turned dark and serious, iterating that it was not cool for it was no game. Abby the Witch let out a sigh from the window, bringing Bray to lean over and ask what had her so glum. Abby questioned the last time any of them had any fun, when Bray told her that they had fun every day at the Firefly Fun House! Abby elaborated, wanting to know when Bray was going to go out and do something other than sit on his lardy behind and watch old movies. Wyatt commented on how cynical Abby was getting in her old age, maintaining that right now he was simply on strike - but it wouldn't last for long. The Boss popped up, surprising 'the Fun House' cast, as he degraded Bray verbally for growing fat, out of weight and a waste of potential! The Boss was about to fire Bray, when Wyatt muffled him - sticking the pinstripe-suited puppet in a glass jar.

Into a burlap sack the jar went, as Bray Wyatt declared patience a virtue, and how his great comeback would come - and it would happen sooner than anybody thought! Suddenly slamming the burlap sack over the end of the counter continuously, the Boss and the jar he was contained in had to be destroyed, as Wyatt added that people feared the unknown - but not him. Tossing the sack aside, Ramblin' Rabbit, Abby the Witch, Mercy the Buzzard and Huskus the Pig were all stunned, as Wyatt waved goodbye to his "Fireflies" in glee! The cryptic comments continued, but what was the demented star of 'the Firefly Fun House' implying?

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6) Jeff Hardy (c) def. Shinsuke Nakamura (with WWE Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn and Cesaro) to retain the WWE Universal Championship (13:15) [THROUGH TWO BREAKS]
- 'The Meeting of the Artists' was here, as the two facepainted combatants met in the middle of the ring to kick off this WWE Universal Championship main event. "The Artist" was smug as Sami Zayn and Cesaro backed him up, when Jeff Hardy struck first with a spinout enzuigiri! Hardy sent Shinsuke reeling to the ringside floor, where Jeff went to the top rope - just for "the Great Liberator" and "the Swiss Cyborg's" presence to prevent him from jumping. "The King of Strong Style" had some valuable friends in his corner, when Daniel Bryan dashed down the rampway to fire blows in the WWE Intercontinental Champion's direction! Cesaro attacked Bryan, when Apollo Crews joined the party - running down and aiding "the Yes Man" in forcing the Artist Collective to retreat up the rampway!
- Friday Night SmackDown returned with the Artist Collective, Daniel Bryan and Apollo Crews removed from the ringside area, leaving Jeff Hardy to clobber Shinsuke Nakamura with a sequence of clotheslines. The WWE Universal Champion connected with a corner clothesline, when the challenger battled back with a series of forearms and a kick to the chest. A knee drop put "the King of Strong Style" in control, as Hardy rolled out to the apron. It allowed Shin time to follow with a knee drop as the WWE Universal Champion draped the edge of the ring apron! Nakamura exuded confidence, covering repeatedly though Hardy remained resourceful. Nakamura focused his attack on the leg with a dragon screw, but Jeff would kick off a heel hook and catch him with an inside cradle. Hardy lowered the ropes sending Shinsuke to the floor, before coming over the top rope with a plancha! Hardy was back in the driver's seat, as an axe handle from the top rope inside soon went caught with a swift kick to the chest.
- The action rolled on through the final commercial break, with "the King of Strong Style" in control of "the Charismatic Enigma". Jeff Hardy battled an octopus stretch into a hip toss, before mounting his comeback. A legdrop to the groin connected, when Hardy went to the top rope - just to be blocked by Shin. "The Artist" joined him up to, coming off with a Landslide from the top rope! Nakamura covered, but Hardy got a shoulder up! Nakamura was losing patience and lined up the Kinshasa, but Jeff reversed into a roll-up. Jeff's Twist of Fate went blocked, and Shin caught him with an inverted powerslam - but again the Kinshasa saw Shinsuke miss allowing Hardy to land a neckbreaker! Jeff tore off his shirt and climbed to the top, where Shin was able to crotch him. The two jostled for position on the top rope, when Shinsuke looked for another Landslide. Instead, Jeff landed beneath him and connected with a running powerslam! Returning to the top rope, the Swanton Bomb connected allowing him to retain the WWE Universal Championship!

In 'the Meeting of the Artists', the WWE Universal Champion, Jeff Hardy came out on top! After a war with Shinsuke Nakamura, Jeff Hardy began to celebrate with the title, when unexpectedly, Sheamus returned with a shot from a ladder! "The Celtic Warrior" shot a cold stare, as he proceeded to slam the ladder lengthways across the spine of Hardy. Pressing down with his hands, the Irishman trapped "the Charismatic Enigma" - still furious with how Money in the Bank went! Jeff was defenceless, as Sheamus set the ladder up in the corner. Jeff grabbed onto each rung to get back to his feet - when the redhead delivered a jaw-shattering Brogue Kick sending Hardy face-first into the ladder! Jeff crumpled to the canvas with the steel over him, leaving Sheamus to take a microphone. He smiled and looked at the gold, claiming he always got what he wanted. "The Celtic Warrior" told Jeff he didn't deserve the title. Sheamus dared Jeff to accept his challenge to a match at Backlash, even saying he would sweeten the deal: by making it a Ladder match!

Backlash - WWE Universal Championship - Ladder match - Jeff Hardy (c) vs Sheamus

▆▆▆

DTP · Dec 24, 2022

WWE Backlash 2020 - June 14, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"Destiny Calls"
"Watch Me Now" by Kevin Rudolf

LESS THAN TWO WEEKS AWAY!

WWE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
Drew McIntyre (c) vs Randy Orton

WWE UNIVERSAL CHAMPIONSHIP - LADDER MATCH
Jeff Hardy (c) vs Sheamus

WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP
Sami Zayn (c) vs Daniel Bryan

RAW WOMEN'S CHAMPIONSHIP
Asuka (c) vs Shayna Baszler

SMACKDOWN TAG TEAM CHAMPIONSHIP
John Morrison and The Miz (c) vs Heavy Machinery

Mandy Rose vs Sonya Deville

Matches to be announced.

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

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PTS	A-BLOCK	B-BLOCK	PTS
6 [3-0]	El Hijo Del Fantasma	Kushida	6 [3-0]
2 [1-2]	Isaiah Scott	Cameron Grimes	4 [2-1]
2 [1-2]	Oney Lorcan	Jake Atlas	2 [1-2]
2 [1-2]	The Brian Kendrick	Tony Nese	0 [0-3]

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

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