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

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WWE Backlash 2020 - June 14, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"Destiny Calls"
"Watch Me Now" by Kevin Rudolf
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Backlash Kickoff Show - June 14, 2020
- The Money in the Bank Kickoff Show was presented by Scott Stanford and Peter Rosenberg at WWE studios and featured special analysis provided by guest correspondents Booker T, John Bradshaw Layfield and Renee Young, who all appeared via conference call.
- Earlier today, WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy was seen arriving at the WWE Performance Center. Banged up after a rough night on Friday Night SmackDown, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" had his sights set on the Ladder match with Sheamus.
- Shayna Baszler was interviewed by Kayla Braxton, and criticized her journalistic integrity. "The Queen of Spades" proclaimed Asuka as a weakling who was masquerading as "the Empress of Tomorrow". As RAW Women's Champion, Shayna claimed Asuka was a paper champion in Becky Lynch's absence - but that would be no issue after tonight. Baszler vowed to add Asuka to 'the Hit-List' occupied by Kairi Sane and Kayden Carter.
- Video packages aired for tonight's major matches, including the WWE World Championship match; WWE Universal Championship Ladder match; the Falls Count Anywhere match; and the RAW Women's Championship match.
- The panel discussed the ongoing situation revolving around the Street Profits and the Viking Raiders, with a comical look-back at their 'Anything You Can Do, I Can Do Better' challenges. Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins had met Erik and Ivar in golf, axe-throwing and basketball. Now tied 2-1 in favor of the Raiders, tomorrow night on Monday Night RAW would see the two tag teams engage in another competitive storm: bowling.
- The panel discussed the recent actions of the Church of Rollins, and their apparent decimation of Aleister Black weeks ago. Seth Rollins had badly injured the eye of "the Anti-Hero" and showed zero remorse. In return, "the Ominous Man from Amsterdam" had haunted "the Monday Night Messiah" and his Disciples with a series of cryptic messages. What would happen tomorrow night, when the Church hosted 'the Funeral of Aleister Black?'
- The panel discussed Bayley and Sasha Banks dominating the Women's Division. The SmackDown Women's Champion had had her hands full with Lacey Evans, but three weeks ago became "Bayley 2 Belts" when she and Sasha Banks defeated Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross to become WWE Women's Tag Team Champions. After defending both titles days apart, Bayley had taken a vacation week - but in her absence, Sasha had become privy to the idea of Bayley being selfish and manipulative. After witnessing an angry phonecall from Bayley to Tamina on SmackDown, Banks now had her suspicions. This Friday night on SmackDown, Sasha Banks would appear on 'A Moment of Bliss'.

☰☰☰

Apollo Crews came bounding out to the ring for singles competition, full of beans after succeeding in victory against Cesaro over one week ago. In green trunks, the ever-smiling and eager Superstar had the members of the WWE Performance Center in the palms of his hands, when a replay recapped the backstage confrontation with King Corbin this past Friday night on SmackDown.

As Apollo Crews waited in the ring, soon came King Corbin in his crown and cowl. "Wrestling Royalty" had arrived to the WWE Performance Center, adorned in his black singlet and tights. Proud in spite of the negative response, Corbin wished to add yet another accolade to his list, days after overcoming Drew Gulak. Once in the ring, he and Crews mouthed off to one another, when warded off by the referee.

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0) King Corbin vs Apollo Crews
While King Corbin had been preoccupied of late with Drew Gulak, a chance encounter with Apollo Crews backstage on Friday Night SmackDown saw the two butt heads, leading to this match being held. Apollo had gained greatly in momentum from two wins against Cesaro in recent weeks, yet the King protested the need for Apollo to receive any interview time or attention. Fired up and looking to continue with momentum, Crews surprised Corbin with a flurry of offense from the bell. While Corbin attempted to cut him off early with a knee to the ribcage, Crews responded with an agile sequence of dropkicks before connecting with a corner splash for an early near fall. The 2019 King of the Ring winner bailed out to the floor allowing Crews time to salute the WWE Universe in attendance, but as the King continued to stall at ringside, Apollo would catch him by surprise with a moonsault from the apron - landing perfectly on his feet! Apollo hammered on Corbin in the corner back inside, when an eye poke enabled Corbin to surprise him with a chokehold-STO. Corbin was full of it, as he proceeded to continue pummelling Apollo on the canvas.

The arrogant King of the Ring put the boots to Apollo Crews in the corner, when the fan favorite battled back with right hands. Corbin responded with a facebuster cutting Crews off, when a biel throw from the corner got a two-count. "Wrestling Royalty" maintained his patience, kneeling over Apollo and calling him a joke! With a methodical style, Corbin basked in the boos as he set up for the chokeslam backbreaker, but Crews slipped free and landed an enzuigiri! Corbin went down, and a military press slam saw the standing moonsault go executed for a near fall. Crews kept the pressure on with a scoop powerslam into a running shooting star press - but again Corbin was able to kick out at two. Whipping the King into the ropes, he was able to slip under the ropes and re-enter the ring for a clothesline - just to receive the Chariot... only Corbin was able to get his foot on the bottom rope at the count of two! Crews argued the decision with the referee, when Corbin's attempt at the Deep Six went blocked into a spinebuster. Crews climbed to the top rope just for Corbin to crotch him up top. The two jockeyed for position when Crews punched Corbin back to the canvas. A diving crossbody was attempted - but the King sidestepped it, before the End of Days sealed Apollo's fate!

Winner: King Corbin (7:22)

All it took was one misstep for King Corbin to capitalize on the mistake made by Apollo Crews. The King had the referee raise his hand over the fallen body of his opponent, soon leaving the ring and continuing to celebrate by the announce table. There, he bragged to Michael Cole and Corey Graves on commentary that he was "Wrestling Royalty" personified - and tonight had just proven it!

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A video package aired, revolving around the concept of destiny. It was something every man and woman believed they had, but destiny came in but small doses. In the framework of sports entertainment, such destiny revolved around accolades and victories. To prosper against ones' enemies has often been the goal of many WWE Superstars throughout history - and tonight would be no different. The WWE Universal Championship would be hanging in the balance, as Jeff Hardy stood up for himself against the deep comments about addiction made by Sheamus in a Ladder match. Drew McIntyre wished to continue on his dream reign as WWE World Champion against Randy Orton, a man determined to push the champion to the edge. The deep rivalry between Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe would reach a boiling point in a Falls Count Anywhere match; and the legitimacy of Asuka's reign as RAW Women's Champion would receive its biggest test to date - against Shayna Baszler. Tonight, destiny called at the doors of every WWE Superstar in action - but whose biggest dreams would be fulfilled, and whose biggest nightmares would go tarnished for good.

The opening graphic aired, bringing us to the WWE Performance Center. With limited attendance, members of the WWE Universe congregated behind plexiglass walls inside of "the Athletic Hub for the Future" in Orlando, Florida. WWE Backlash was on the air live, as Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed us to the show on a night where dreams and nightmares would go realized. With five championships on the line and personal issues to be settled, Backlash was the place to be.

☰☰☰

The SmackDown Tag Team Championships were kicking things off, as Heavy Machinery brought the WWE Universe to their feet. The crowd made noise as Otis and Tucker made their way out to the rampway in the sleeveless denim jackets - both men poised to become SmackDown Tag Team Champions. With a bandaged knee from the steel chair footstomp received from John Morrison on Friday, it was apparent Otis was not 100%, but adrenaline had brought "the Blue Collar Boys" here tonight, and brought the energy to the WWE Performance Center.

As Heavy Machinery braced for what was potentially the biggest match of their tag team career, John Morrison and The Miz made their arrival. "The Shaman of Sexy" arrived , raising the SmackDown Tag Team Championship gold high with the wind blowing through his hair. In shades and a fur coat, Morrison grinned all-knowingly, when joined by "the A-Lister". In his black leather coat with matching headband, Miz posed with his title high - united with his fellow co-host of 'the Dirt Sheet'. Miz and Morrison ran their mouths walking down to the ring, where Greg Hamilton provided in-ring introductions.

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1) SmackDown Tag Team Championship
John Morrison and The Miz (c) vs Heavy Machinery
Since capturing the SmackDown Tag Team Championships back at Crown Jewel, John Morrison and The Miz had long declared themselves as being the most winningest tag team in the history of Friday Night SmackDown. That was, until Heavy Machinery were able to beat the clock in John Morrison and The Miz's own 'Fifteen Minutes of Fame' challenge a few weeks ago. While the two teams had waited patiently for the in-ring introductions, the bell sounded bringing Otis into a bout of rage! Joining Tucker in charging the SmackDown Tag Team Champions, John Morrison and The Miz were rushed from the ring after a brief physical exchange! The Miz ran for the hills after being whipped into the ropes, when John Morrison found himself hurled from the ring the hard way - cast over the top rope onto Miz on the floor! Heavy Machinery were rolling, but as the champs wished to stall for time at ringside, "the Blue Collar Boys" crept up behind them - a double noggin-knocker knocking "the A-Lister" and "the Shaman of Sexy" silly. After sending Miz back into the ring, Tucker delivered a series of punches in the corner.

The Miz tried to fight out with right hands of his own, missing a double axe handle from the second rope and winding up hit with a back suplex and an elbow drop! Tucker made an early one-count, before tagging in Otis for a body slam followed by a double headbutt from both challengers. "The Blue Collar Boy" exchanged words with John Morrison as he tried to enter the ring, allowing Miz to gain a brief advantage following a kick to the back of the bad leg! It had started with a Pillmanizing on Friday Night SmackDown, and now Otis tried to fight Miz off as he attempted to pick the leg. Otis struck back with a forearm, when another distraction from Morrison saw Miz take the big man down with a chop block! The SmackDown Tag Team Champions goaded "Tucky", taking turns dissecting the bandaged leg of Otis with a series of stomps and stretches. The SmackDown Tag Team Champions found a groove, as Morrison connected with a running knee strike to the seated challenger for a near fall. Miz connected with an inverted backbreaker for a near fall, before once again mouthing off to Tucker.

Now posing and full of confidence, John Morrison executed a handstand legdrop when the Miz came in looking to apply the Figure-4 Leglock. Otis was easily able to kick "the A-Lister" away with his good foot, but a powerslam attempt saw Otis land awkwardly on his bad leg! As Tucker reached for the tag, Otis instead rived in pain with his leg, when John Morrison tagged in and leapt onto the back of Otis. Otis tried to climb back to his feet with "the Shaman of Sexy" on his back - when Miz kicked the leg out from under Otis! A snap DDT granted the SmackDown Tag Team Champions a near fall, as Miz dropped an elbow and wrenched away at Otis's leg. The WWE Universe gradually got behind "the Blue Collar Boys", as "Tucky" strived to make the tag. Otis was able to fight the leg lock, when Miz tried to transition - only for Otis to deadlift Miz into his arms, just for him to slip free. Miz went back for the knee, but Otis rebounded with a discus lariat! The tag was finally made to Tucker, who hit the ring with a series of clotheslines for John Morrison. Sending him out to the floor, Miz was hurled out with an overhead belly-to-belly suplex, when "Tucky" followed suit with the cannonball senton on both champions!

The Miz and John Morrison were in danger as Tucker returned John Morrison inside. After ducking a corkscrew roundhouse kick from "the Shaman of Sexy", "Tucky" responded with the super kick - but Morrison leapt to make the save! Otis tagged in and the Compactor was teased, but Miz was able to slip free. The Skull Crushing Finale went blocked, when Otis crushed "the A-Lister" with a World's Strongest Slam! The pinfall was made, but JoMo once again made the save for his tag team partner. Tucker battled Morrison to the corner, as Miz landed a low dropkick before Morrison made the blind tag. The Starship Pain connected - landed across the leg of Otis, but he was miraculously able to muscle out! Morrison got back up and prepared the Moonlight Drive, but Otis caught him in his hands and tossed him to Tucker for the Compactor! Miz leapt to make the save, but came just too short, as Otis pinned Morrison for the three count.

Winners, and new SmackDown Tag Team Champions: Heavy Machinery (12:05)

WWE Backlash was off with a bang, as new SmackDown Tag Team Champions had been crowned. Otis and Tucker were issued the titles, as the Miz glanced up to see his worst nightmare unfold: "the Blue Collar Boys" coming together as the newly reigning champs! "The A-Lister" was devastated, while John Morrison rolled out to the floor. Hobbling to his feet with assistance from "Tucky", the two big men hugged it out with a whopping belly bounce, having their hands raised in victory. It had been an uphill journey for Otis and "Tucky", but victory was theirs!

☰☰☰

As her men were victorious, an enthused Mandy Rose was seen at a monitor backstage. Overjoyed for her lover, "the Golden Goddess" had a big smile on her face when approached by Kayla Braxton. Mandy expressed how happy she was for Otis and Tucker, knowing exactly how long and how hard they had both worked for this moment tonight. After what John Morrison and The Miz put them through, Mandy could not wait to see her hunky adonis Otis wear the SmackDown Tag Team Championship proudly. But their night was not yet over, as she still had her own business to take care of. Pointing out the Kinesio tape on her right shoulder, Mandy spoke about how Otis wasn't the only one feeling the effects of a steel chair attack. Referring to Friday night where her former friend Sonya Deville lashed out at her with a shot in the arm, Mandy declared that there would be no more running and ducking her. Tonight, Fire & Desire reaches their final destination, and Mandy vowed to make Sonya acknowledge that you never knew what you had - until it was gone.

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Returning to the WWE Performance Center, Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton assumed their position at the top of the rampway. Welcoming us to WWE Backlash, they discussed the opening contest before running down what was coming up tonight on the Monday Night RAW side of things! With news to deliver, the announcers made note of how things had been going hot and heavy since earlier today at the WWEPC.

The Premature Brawl
Footage aired from earlier today, showing Kevin Owens arrive at the WWE Performance Center. With a backpack over his shoulder and a suitcase under his arm, the casually-dressed KO was mentally focused on his Falls Count Anywhere match to come against Samoa Joe - when he was jumped by the man himself! A fist-fight quickly broke out on the tarmac in the parking lot, with "the Prize Fighter" fighting the Coquina Clutch attempt from Joe! Headbutts freed him, and the two tumbled into the brick wall - when security forces fled to the scene to keep the two separated. The announcers narrated the scene, noting that security had been given strict orders from WWE Management to keep the rivals at opposite ends of the building until it was time for their Falls Count Anywhere match.

A video package aired recapping the bad blood that engulfed Samoa Joe and Kevin Owens. There were few serious threats to take on Seth Rollins and his Church of Disciples, besides the combination of "the Samoan Submission Machine" and "the Prize Fighter". When Joe went down in injury, KO continued his vendetta against the Church of Rollins heading into WrestleMania. There, Owens had the upper hand against "the Monday Night Messiah" - had it not been for "the Coquina Destroyer". Joe went back to his roots, demolishing anybody who stepped foot in his path. For weeks, Joe continued to insult Owens and deride all of his fame and success. Finally, as Joe reached high for the Money in the Bank briefcase last month, Owens returned and sent him hurdling into the abyss below. KO was back and what followed was two bad men battling head-to-head. They brawled throughout the WWE Performance Center; were both counted out in the head of battle. But as personal as this had become, there was no stopping what was to come. After bringing his family into it, Owens had become a loose cannon. Who would be the better man in Falls Count Anywhere?

Kevin Owens made his arrival to the same WWE Performance Center he and his adversary had both grown incredibly familiar with. "The Prize Fighter" stepped out to the stage in his shirt and fight shorts, cranking his neck and preparing for the war that was about to commence. He had already had one pull-apart fiasco with "the Coquina Destroyer" earlier today in the WWE Performance Center parking lot, but as KO climbed into the ring he appeared unafraid. Fearless, KO stretched and waited patiently - to await the arrival of his arch rival.

Samoa Joe bounced out to the WWE Performance Center moments later, biding his time and glaring at each and every member of the WWE Universe booing him from behind the plexiglass barricades. In red and black, "the Coquina Destroyer" began to made his way down the rampway with a black towel hiding his face, when he spotted Kevin Owens leave the ring. Talking trash at him, Samoa Joe threw down his towel before challenging KO to bring it there and then! Owens charged at Joe, as a fist fight commenced!

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2) Falls Count Anywhere match
Kevin Owens vs Samoa Joe
With all of the bad blood spilled from the betrayal to be remembered at WrestleMania, Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe started this Falls Count Anywhere match with a hockey fight on the rampway! The referee rang for the bell and rushed to the scene, where the Canadian gained the upper hand with haymaker after haymaker. The referee standing too close for comfort saw KO push him aside, causing Joe to blast him with a big boot to the side of the jaw! A punching combination followed when a knee lift allowed Joe to claim control. A suplex on the steel rampway was the goal, but at the last second Owens reversed into a snap suplex of his own! Joe held his back in pain after snapping across the rampway, with KO soon kicking him in the back for good measure. Rolling "the Coquina Destroyer" down to ringside, Owens maintained Joe in a seated position against the steel steps before stepping away and rushing towards him with a Cannonball senton! It was a strike, as the steel steps collapsed behind the two men. A car crash was to be expected, and it had already become! Owens was sluggish getting back up, but tried his luck to finish this early - a Package Piledriver atop the steps teased, just for Joe to back drop out!

Kevin Owens got back up and found himself driven spine-first into the edge of the ring apron. Soon sending him face-first into the plexiglass wall and barricade, Samoa Joe made his first pin attempt of the match for a one-count. He expected as such and chuckled, hurling KO into the ring for the first time in this match. "The Coquina Destroyer" began to climb in when he was hit with a dropkick from KO, who began to bring more punches in the direction of the Samoan. Joe responded with a hard headbutt, when Owens delivered a superkick knocking him from the apron! Stepping back out to the apron, Owens looked to the WWE Universe for their ovation, teasing another Cannonball senton to the floor - but nonchalantly, Joe simply walked away. Owens crashed and burned, and in response Joe began to ground and pound away at "the Prize Fighter". Forearm smashes surely had Owens groggy, as Joe again hurled him into the ring. Taking too long to argue with fans behind the plexiglass, Owens again struck with a baseball slide, and a springboard Arabian press wiped Joe out! With arms wide open, KO looked to the fans for a loud ovation before returning Joe to the ring.

With a series of right hands, Kevin Owens throttled Samoa Joe with fists before charging with a clothesline in the corner. Looking for a second, "the Prize Fighter" turned to the corresponding corner to begin a run-up - only to be stalked by Joe! A back elbow squashed KO in the corner, to be followed with an enzuigiri! The Canadian dropped to a knee, when Joe decided to follow up with an inverted atomic drop before hitting the ropes for a big boot. Another near fall saw Joe shake his head with amusement. "The Samoan Submission Machine" connected with a running senton, but again Kevin was able to kick out at two. Rolling out to the apron for air, Joe hoisted Owens over the top rope back inside by the armpits - soon clubbing him with two big clubbing blows to the chest! It was all legal in Falls Count Anywhere, when Owens fought the Samoan off with a big headbutt collision. Owens hit the ropes with a lariat that barely budged his rival, when a second one saw Joe catch him with a scoop powerslam - for another near fall. Defensively, KO again retreated out to ringside, where Samoa Joe followed confidently.

Strutting around telling Kevin Owens he was nothing but a poor man's Samoa Joe, "the Coquina Destroyer" clutched him in a headlock and drove clenched fists into the crown of his head - when KO responded by biting the arm! As Joe broke the hold, Owens fought back with a blatant kick to the groin. The Apron Powerbomb was attempted, but Joe again was able to back body drop Owens on the floor for a near fall! Joe backed Owens up against the announce table and blasted him with a series of snap jabs and body blows, but Owens fired back with a lariat stunning Joe! Kevin fired with a second, when a stun-gun saw Joe bounce jaw-fist off the announce table at ringside. Owens pressured Joe into the timekeeper's area, pounding him with shots to the back of the head. The WWE Universe grew louder with each shot, when Owens took a break to showboat to the crowd. It would turn out to be a terrible decision however, as Joe responded with a shot from the ring bell to lay Owens out! "The Samoan Submission Machine" covered the motionless Kevin Owens, who was miraculously able to raise his shoulder at two!

"The Coquina Destroyer" was in disbelief, but continued to hammer Kevin Owens with clenched fists, kneeling beside him. Gently kicking "the Prize Fighter", Samoa Joe mocked and continue to deride his foe insultingly. Raising him by the hair, Kev was able to take him down with a double-leg, before catapulting him head-first into the plexiglass! Back on the attack, Owens continued to pursue a fleeing Joe around the ringside area. Blow after blow stunned Joe, and Owens once again looked for an Apron Powerbomb. Joe was able to break loose and escape to the aisle, where the Canadian thought he had the Samoan at his mercy. Only Joe struck back with a drop toe hold sending Owens to the rampway. Dragging him back to his feet, the two battled through the curtain at the stage - this fight going backstage! Through the halls, both men battled with the referee struggling to keep up. Joe tried to send Owens face-first into the brick wall, when a back elbow saw him break out. A jab to the abdomen from the steel chair saw Owens smash it across his spine - but he wasn't finished there! Four consecutive chair shots to the body grounded Joe on the concrete, when KO dragged Joe by the head.

Knowing he loved it last time they visited, Kevin Owens talked trash to Samoa Joe before sending him into a door! As "the Coquina Destroyer" went flying through it, KO followed behind with a busted lip. The door indeed read "Men's WC" - as this rivalry was returning to a place of special interest! In the john, Kevin Owens was faced with a series of cubicles, with no sign of Joe in sight. Warning him he couldn't be a coward this late in the game, KO brought up the bull that Joe brought up about his family! Kev ordered Joe to find him before he found Joe - to no response. Browsing the bathroom, Kevin finally booted a door down at random - but inside wasn't Joe. Instead, Owens found Riddick Moss! Cowering in fear with his pants around his ankles, "So Smooth" had seen some better days. KO asked Moss if he had seen Joe, when the man himself snuck up behind him! The Coquina Clutch was attempted, but Owens was able to headbutt him from behind. Looking to ram Joe's head into the urinal, Joe blocked it by putting his hand out before bouncing his head off the porcelain!

Leaving the bathroom once again, Samoa Joe followed Kevin Owens down the hall before declaring that it was time to end this charade. Kicking KO in the ribcage as he crawled, "the Coquina Destroyer" told him he was no man - and even pointed to the camera and posed for little Owen, who was watching his father's humiliation back home in Maryville! Owens furiously fired back, taking a lead pipe and slamming it across the back of Joe's head for a near fall. Kevin screamed that he warned Joe to leave his family out of it, now kicking Joe in the ribs as he crawled! Through the curtain, these two men brawled back to the rampway, where a running senton saw Owens achieve another near fall. Lumbering back to his feet, Owens saw Joe ahead and charged - only to receive an ST-Joe on the steel! Determined to put a stop to Owens' onslaught, Joe teased sending Kev sailing from the stage to the pit in front of the socially distanced WWE Universe members - but Owens turned it around! Joe went flying, when KO came leaping off with a diving axe handle. Surrounded by fans, Kevin felt right at home! Rolling Joe back onto the stage, Kev followed him as the fight returned back ringside, with a crawling Joe leading the way.

A kick to a pursuing Kevin Owens bought Samoa Joe time to return to his feet, and the Muscle Buster on the floor was teased - but KO was able to slip free! Landing on his feet, a super kick stunned Joe but a big boot responded. Joe had to use the ring apron to prop himself up, picking up the top set of the steel steps! Joe had evil intentions, but Owens intercepted with another superkick! The steps landed directly on top of "the Coquina Destroyer", and Owens covered - but he was able to narrowly avoid defeat. Joe groaned in pain, but a kick to the groin allowed Joe to fire back. Another Muscle Buster was teased, but this time Owens escaped to his feet - and the Apron Powerbomb connected! Joe was left flat on the apron, when KO rolled his carcuss into the ring. There, Kev stalked Joe. He told him this was more than a long time coming - and claimed this was how he got his life back. The Stunner blasted the Samoan, and Kevin Owens prospered in victory!

Winner: Kevin Owens (17:24)

The statement on the shirt of Kevin Owens had never rang as true as it had tonight at Backlash, as "Fight Owens Fight" was right! Falls Count Anywhere match been everything the WWE Universe could have expected from the two behemoths colliding. Kevin Owens struggled to pull himself up using the ropes, as he raised his fists in victory over Samoa Joe. "The Coquina Destroyer" appeared down and defeated, in what had been sweet victory after how Joe had taunted him for months. Proving he was no "poor man's Joe", Owens continued to talk trash to Joe, akin to how Stone Cold Steve Austin used to. As Owens raised his fists in salute to the WWE Universe behind the plexiglass, Joe remained down and out inside.

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All in This Together
Sami Zayn
was warming up in the Artist Collective's dressing room...vocally. Shinsuke Nakamura listened to "the Great Liberator" as he raced back and forth talking about what he was going to do to Daniel Bryan. The WWE Intercontinental Champion spoke passionately about the years of blood, sweat and tears he had put into this business - and yet Daniel was taking the high ground! Sami detested the comments spoken on Friday Night SmackDown, claiming he didn't need Shin or Cesaro to help him retain the title. He was an independent darling once too! Cesaro entered the room, bringing tension to the room. "The Swiss Cyborg" wanted no hard feelings after their conversation on Friday. They were all still Artists at the end of the day. Cesaro apologized, but Shin came to his feet and reassured the European - Sheamus was cool with them, so long as Cesaro was still a team player. Zayn reigned the gentlemen together, standing on the bench and declaring that tonight was the night the Artist Collective got back on track. He would defeat "the Yes Man" who had plagued them for far too long, and cement his legacy as the true greatest technical wrestler in the world! The Artist Collective were all hands in.

☰☰☰

The WWE Performance Center was brought to life, elated by the arrival of Daniel Bryan. In black and red, "the Yes Man" crouched and looked out to the ring from the rampway before bounding down to ringside in "Yes" chants. The WWE Universe chanted in unison, as Bryan stretched his quads at ringside before stepping up to the second rope and raising his index fingers high. A former WWE Intercontinental Champion who had never been beaten to lose the title, tonight Daniel looked to avenge his WrestleMania loss and reclaim the gold.

Forty-eight hours flashed forward from an interesting in-ring confrontation with his challenger, Sami Zayn came jiving out to the stage. Amidst loud boos, the WWE Performance Center watched with disapproval at the arrival of the WWE Intercontinental Champion and his Artist Collective teammates. Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura posed and saluted "the Great Liberator", who danced hyperactively down to the ring. As Daniel continued to warm up nonchalantly, Sami continued to talk trash, raising the gold in "the Yes Man's face! Greg Hamilton offered in-ring introductions, but as Sami and Daniel faced off - the champ decided to send "the Swiss Cyborg" and "the Artist" to the backstage area! Zayn was determined to do it alone!

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3) WWE Intercontinental Championship
Sami Zayn (c) vs Daniel Bryan
Pleasantly surprised by the actions of the WWE Intercontinental Champion, Daniel Bryan congratulated Sami Zayn on his decision to send Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura to the backstage area. While Daniel Bryan had been robbed of the title back at WrestleMania in part thanks to the Artist Collective, clearly his words from Friday Night SmackDown had reached through to "the Great Liberator". A determined Sami Zayn teased locking up with the challenger, soon interlocking fingers with a Greco-Roman knucklelock battle for supremacy. While Daniel had the grip advantage, Sami would use his motivation to force his head into the chest of Bryan. Forcing "the Yes Man" to arch backwards into a sharp bridge, the champion grinned from ear to ear. Now pouncing on top of Daniel, the champ had his rival's shoulders pinned for a one-count when he shot back up into the bridge! Sami jumped back on Daniel, but the core strength of the challenger refused to let Sami pin him again! Zayn knelt on the thighs of "the Submission Specialist", when Daniel caught Sami and placed his feet on the thighs of the champ. The momentum allowed Daniel to come back to his feet, swiftly connecting with a series of arm drags!

Sami Zayn rushed back to his feet to miss a clothesline, allowing Daniel Bryan to rope the WWE Intercontinental Champion in for a northern lights suplex. Zayn got a shoulder up before "the Yes Man" rolled back and dragged Sami to his feet. Seamlessly right back into the Greco-Roman knucklelock, Bryan forced Zayn backwards into the bridge - before smartly kicking his foot out from under him! The champ plummeted to the mat and sat up enraged! Bryan then sidestepped another inbound attack from "the Great Liberator", catching him with a backslide; transitioning into La Magistral. A near fall saw Zayn kick out, when an armdrag saw the champ prance about the ring in victory! Amused, Daniel sat on the canvas and glanced up to his foe, even applauding him! Yet the head of Sami Zayn got the better of him all over again, rushing in to receive a drop toe hold from the challenger. There, "the Yes Man" locked his feet within Sami's and connected with two consecutive stomps to the calves of the champ! Sami groaned, as Daniel stuck his fingers in the orifices of the challenger's facial features! Wrenching at the nostrils, Bryan would soon take the arms and apply a Romero Special!

Sami Zayn shook his head and refused to give in, as Daniel Bryan had "the Great Liberator" elevated in the Mexican surfboard stretch position! Suddenly, Bryan mixed things up - hooking his arm around the head of Bryan with a dragon sleeper! The WWE Intercontinental Champion could not even gasp for air, as Bryan wrenched away at him. Sami finally found an escape and scrambled out to the ringside area on all-fours. Crawling away from the challenger, "the Yes Man" followed him out. With Daniel hot on his heels, Zayn rolled in wisely before hitting the ropes and catching Bryan off-guard with a back elbow strike. As obnoxious as ever, the champ showboated to the WWE Universe, when Bryan nipped up and surprised Zayn with a big boot to the jaw! Rocking him to the corner, the challenger struck with a sequence of Yes Kicks in the corner before setting off for the running dropkick. Zayn backdropped Daniel out to the apron on his feet, where an elbow smash allowed "the Submission Specialist" to head to the top rope and connect with a missile dropkick - only for a near fall! The fun and games were over, Bryan keeping the pressure on with three straight European uppercuts.

Daniel Bryan was rocked with a knee lift from Sami Zayn, who clubbed at the back of the head and delivered a snapmare before connecting with a kick to the back! "The Yes Man" got up feeling no ounce of pain, when Sami struck with a toe kick. Locking hands with Bryan, Sami sprung to the top rope, looking for an armdrag, but Bryan would drag him back to the canvas for a roundhouse kick to connect! Once again Sami went rolling to the floor for safety, but Bryan came soaring after with a dive through the ropes! Firing up with more Yes Kicks against the barricade, the WWE Intercontinental Champion was troubled and forced to take the brunt of them. A series of forearms and European uppercuts further rocked "the Great Liberator", who soon raked the eyes of Daniel to buy him some space. Sami stood back up from the barricade corner...just to flop on his face moments after, in shades of Ric Flair! Bryan rolled Sami back into the ring, sliding in after and hitting the ropes just to be hit with a kitchen sink knee strike to the gut. Catching his breath, Sami proceeded to duck a clothesline before catching Bryan off-guard with an exploder suplex for a near fall!

It was the most physical match Sami Zayn had had in time, as he began to hammer on the back of Daniel Bryan's head as he recovered in the corner. A backbreaker saw Zayn hammer away at the exposed chest of "the Yes Man" with aggressive strikes, risking a disqualification. Quickly going back at it with further clubbing blows beside Bryan, "the Great Liberator" would get only a two-count. The rage was getting the better of the WWE Intercontinental Champion, bringing Bryan back to his feet before coming out of the corner with a tornado DDT attempt - just to have Daniel toss him off! Ducking a clothesline, Bryan landed a clothesline and looked for a second one - just for Sami to dodge it and instead clock Daniel with a calf kick off the jaw. Once again the redheaded leader of the Artist Collective pranced in the middle of the WWE Performance Center, with a select crowd on hand booing him. The half-and-half suplex left Bryan laying, but once again the challenger kicked out at the count of two. Zayn pondered what he had to do, soon hoisting him on the second rope with his back turned to him.

With clubbing blows to the back of the head, Sami Zayn soon climbed to the top rope. With evil intentions in mind, Daniel Bryan surprised the champ with more forearm strikes. "The Yes Man" even threw in a headbutt for good measure - but an eye rake from the WWE Intercontinental Champion would allow him control of the situation. Zayn mounted the top rope and looked for a sunset flip from the top rope - but Bryan would miraculously backflip out to his feet! Taking off to the ropes, Bryan connected with two flying clotheslines, before returning to Yes Kicks in the corner! A running dropkick rocked "the Great Liberator's" world, when a Regal-Plex saw Zayn's shoulder raise at the count of two. Bryan brought a dazed Sami back to his feet for a butterfly suplex attempt, but Zayn would break out and catch him out of nowhere with the Blue Thunder Bomb - though he would only catch a near fall! Without thinking further, "the Great Liberator" looked for the Sharpshooter - but Daniel would block it and instead counter with the Achilles Hold applied! Repositioning for greater effect, Daniel maintained more pressure on the limb - but Sami was quick to kick him away!

Daniel Bryan used the ropes to return back to his feet, and with some distance from Sami Zayn obtained, "the Yes Man" charged for the Running Knee. But Sami was able to sidestep out of the way, sending the challenger bouncing face-first from the top turnbuckle! A roll-up brought "the Great Liberator" a close near fall, when Daniel charged in for an exploder suplex into the corner! Zayn saw the writing on the wall and connected with the Helluva Kick - the leg hooked, just for Daniel to miraculously power out at two once more! The WWE Intercontinental Champion was aghast, unable to comprehend the fight of the challenger. Zayn was left with nothing left to be done, and called for backup! Waving to the back, out ran Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura. With the referee distracted by their arrival, Shin got up on the apron as "the Swiss Cyborg" snuck into the ring - only to be hit with Yes Kicks from Bryan! A roundhouse kick was signalled, when Sami darted in just to collide head-to-head with his own teammate! The Running Knee took Sami down and out, but "the King of Strong Style" slipped into the ring.

Trying to get his teammate intentionally disqualified, Shinsuke Nakamura charged for the Kinshasa, though Bryan would duck it - sending "the Artist" over the top rope directly onto Cesaro! Sami Zayn struck from behind with a bridging German suplex for a close near fall, before musing to himself about the very concept of the top rope. With an Arabian moonsault, Sami would crash land on nothing but canvas! The opportunistic "Submission Specialist" was in perfect position however, slapping on the Yes Lock in the center of the ring. As Cesaro and Nakamura watched with terror from ringside, Sami reached out desperately for the bottom rope - but with nowhere left to run, he was forced to tap out to "the Yes Man!"

Winner, and new WWE Intercontinental Champion: Daniel Bryan (17:14)

The WWE Intercontinental Championship reign of Sami Zayn had ended, with Daniel Bryan crowned the new champion tonight at Backlash! The WWE Universe rejoiced, as Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura were left despondant at ringside. The Artist Collective had been outsmarted by "the Yes Man", who thought he was about to bring only the best out of "the Great Liberator". Yet while Sami tried his earnest to defeat the challenger one-on-one, it was desperation that would ultimately be his downfall. Daniel celebrated with the people watching on, raising the title high with rapid chants of "YES!" Meanwhile, Cesaro and Nakamura showed remorse for Zayn as they helped him away from the ringside area.

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Following discussion from Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton, a video package aired promoting the RAW Women's Championship match to come. A wrecking machine of destruction since her arrival on Monday Night RAW following the Royal Rumble, Shayna Baszler had been responsible for injury after injury to the entire of WWE's Women's Division. Though unsuccessful at WrestleMania against Becky Lynch, the WWE Universe were left stunned when on May 11, 2020, "the Man" volunteered to vacate the title. Awarding it to the Women's Money in the Bank winner Asuka, it only fuelled "the Queen of Spades'" fire further. As Becky celebrated with her WWE family about the news of her motherhood, Shayna snatched the champ and threatened to snap her arm - just for "the Empress of Tomorrow" to run to her aid. In recent weeks, the fearless challenger had broken Kayden Carter's arm and seriously damaged Kairi Sane's. Yet Asuka was not one for backing down either. Following what had been a physical few weeks, two of RAW's baddest women were to meet for the gold.

Sporting a black towel over her head, Shayna Baszler swaggered through the curtain from backstage and made her entrance to the WWE Performance Center. Unfazed by the negative response provided by the WWE Universe, "the Queen of Spades" flexed on her route to the ring, wearing black, gold and red with heavy dark eye shadow. The former MMA Fighter had waited since WrestleMania for another opportunity to become RAW Women's Champion, and with a documented victory against Asuka under belt, one had to question if the challenger was under the skin of "the Empress of Tomorrow".

In contrast, the mask-adorning RAW Women's Champion soon swayed out to the rampway. In head to toe with colors of red, orange and purple, the fur-coat clad Asuka was animated walking with the gold in-hand. Asuka saw her opposition looking smug and was reminded of what she had done to her fellow Kabuki Warrior. Asuka was ready to get even for Kairi Sane, as she hit the ring just for Baszler to wisely roll out. Shayna bided her time reentering, as Mike Rome provided in-ring introductions. Throughout this, the challenger continued to grin and finally Asuka lost her cool, jumping the shark!

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4) RAW Women's Championship
Asuka (c) vs Shayna Baszler
"The Empress of Tomorrow" had waited long enough, swiftly bringing the fight to Shayna Baszler before the bell! After a flurry of high kicks cornering "the Queen of Spades", while the challenger would dodge a roundhouse kick, Asuka would spring out of the corner with a reverse dropkick! The bell sounded to get this RAW Women's Championship match underway, when Asuka struck with a hip attack for an early one-count. The champ continued with two more kicks, when Shayna ducked a third before grabbing a high wristlock and tripping Asuka down hard. With the wrist clutched, Baszler manipulated the joint only for the champ to bat her way free. Back to their feet, Asuka attempted the Asuka Lock in a hurry - but Baszler saw it coming and was quick to roll through to a victory roll. Asuka kicked out before a count could be made, when "the Queen of Spades" slipped in the Kirifuda Clutch! Asuka was caught, but her ring awareness aided her as the heel of her foot reached the bottom rope. Asuka rolled away leaving the challenger to grin, knowing her foe all too well. Shayna applied another wristlock, transitioning into the hammerlock.

Asuka tried to elbow her way free, but would connect with an arm drag, applying a headscissors. Shayna Baszler responded with a handstand to escape the RAW Women's Champion's thighs, applying a side headlock. Asuka worked her way back to her feet. "The Empress of Tomorrow" tried to send Shayna into the ropes, but the side headlock went maintained. "The Queen of Spades" transitioned back to the wrist, wrenching the limb with joint manipulation. Asuka tried to body blow her way out, but Baszler would follow through with a double-wristlock applied! The tight grip kept Asuka grounded, as Shayna used the sole of her foot to add insult to injury. The champ rived in pain, when Shayna willingly broke the hold and teased a soccer kick - just for Asuka to narrowly dodge the blow! A sole butt to the mid-section rocked the challenger, when Shayna caught an open-hand slap and chomped down on the hand with her teeth! With another arm wrench applied, Shayna divided the fingers with a grotesque snap; Asuka rolling out to safety on the apron. Shayna tried to club her through the ropes before following her out - where Asuka rocked her with a Switchblade Kick!

"The Empress of Tomorrow" used her good hand to connect with two open-hand chops, while Shayna Baszler defensively responded with a toe kick. Asuka would block a forearm and big boot Shayna from the apron, when a running hip attack to the floor wiped "the Queen of Spades" out! The WWE Universe were behind the RAW Women's Champion, who returned back to the ring and looked for a baseball slide. Unfortunately, Baszler would see her coming - and the MMA Fighter would catch Asuka by the legs - taking her from a powerbomb position, swinging her head-first into the barricade! Through her black mouthguard, the challenger was in control once more. Refusing to allow Asuka the dignity of a count-out loss where she would retain the title, Shayna hurled the Japanese Superstar into the ring and mounted her with a series of palm strikes! Trying to snatch the arm with a potential cross-armbreaker, Baszler would receive all of Asuka, who responded with a forearm strike. Baszler fired with forearms of her own, when the two soon went blow for blow! The two combatants broke out into a slap fest, culminating with Asuka sticking her face in Shayna's and screaming at her!

Another forearm strike rocked Asuka, when Shayna Baszler missed a big boot; and Asuka struck back with a rapid succession of strikes! With the challenger finally dazed, "the Empress of Tomorrow" delivered a pop-up knee strike to the jaw of Baszler, when the challenger caught Asuka's double-knee facebreaker - dropping her overhead with a big back body drop! The RAW Women's Champion tried to move but Shayna stomped on her fingers, before snatching the hand and again biting sadistically at the fingertips! A stomp to the wrist hurt Asuka further, when Shayna expertly locked in the cross-armbreaker. Asuka screamed as Shayna repeatedly snapped the fingers apart from each other - the challenger destined to leave Backlash with the RAW Women's Championship. Asuka tried to fight it, nearly able to counter with a roll-up, just for Baszler to tense her legs flat to the canvas! Asuka was on the verge of tapping out following a second snap of her fingers - but Asuka would unexpectedly flip things around. Able to escape, Asuka knocked Baszler loopy with a roundhouse kick! Asuka launched with a striking combination, before following with a rapid succession of kicks.

Shayna Baszler received the spinkick, but Asuka was only scored a two-count! "The Empress of Tomorrow" instinctively transitioned into a cross-armbreaker, though her grip was hindered by the pain in her arm. Forced to break the hold for her own wellbeing, the RAW Women's Champion missed a jumping knee strike, allowing Baszler to catch her with the Yokosuka Cutter! Another near fall, Baszler stalked before soccer kicking the arm of Asuka - then taking advantage using another stomp to the wrist! Planting Asuka's head flat on the mat, "the Queen of Spades" looked to do to Asuka what she had done to Kairi Sane and Kayden Carter - looking to add her to her hit list. Baszler went for the stomp, but Asuka evaded it with a roll-up for a near fall! The Asuka Lock was once again applied, with Shayna trying everything in her power to escape. Rolling backwards, the Kirifuda Clutch was attempted - but Asuka chomped down on Shayna's fingers! Rolling onto her front, Asuka would slip free, before dropkicking the challenger's elbow when caught in a compromising position! A taste of her own medicine received, the champ reapplied the Asuka Lock - finally forcing Baszler to tap out!

Winner, and still RAW Women's Champion: Asuka (14:23)

For the first time in her WWE career, Shayna Baszler had been forced to tap out! Asuka smiled like the crazed enigma she was - her hand raised victorious. "The Queen of Spades" continued to clutch her elbow in pain at the dropkick received moments ago, while "the Empress of Tomorrow" received her well-earned RAW Women's Championship. No paper champion was Asuka, who successfully retained the title tonight after a physical and at times grotesque technical battle with "the Submission Magician". As Asuka continued to showboat and squeal that this fight was for Kairi Sane, Shayna was approached in the ring by a trainer. Favoring her arm and all, the furious, unsuccessful challenger would come to her feet and swing for the trainer! Leaving on her own accord, the MMA Fighter would undoubtedly live to fight another day.

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An advertisement aired, showing Titus O'Neil sat in a chair. Professional as ever wearing a suit, he announced that WWE was teaming up with Nestlé in partnership with No Kid Hungry. Over 22 million children across America had lost the school meals they depended on, but with WWE and Nestlé together, they had raised a sponsorship of $1 million to help families in need.

The Viper's Territory
Charly Caruso
was standing by at the interview area with Randy Orton, but the challenger for the WWE World Championship tonight interrupted the broadcast journalist knowing full well what she was going to say. He had proven what kind of man Drew McIntyre was, and ensured that every single member of the WWE Universe knew what kind of heartbreak they were in for tonight. Their so-called savior - the very man who slayed "the Beast Incarnate" Brock Lesnar; the very man who overcame Big Show twenty-four hours later; the very individual who defeated "the Rated R Superstar" Edge - tonight he would fall, and the WWE Universe would be forced to witness it. Orton claimed Drew was hotheaded and weak-minded, and he knew exactly what that was like. Randy claimed that was once him, when he was the youngest-ever World Heavyweight Champion - and he lost it in mere weeks. He was immature once too, but now "the Viper" was fully formed. He was mature and he was going to become World Champion again tonight. Charly accepted this, but brought up Bobby Lashley - the Money in the Bank briefcase holder he had left laying with an RKO six nights ago.

Randy Orton chuckled, claiming "the All Mighty" knew exactly he was playing with fire. But this was Randy Orton's territory, and if Lashley knew what was good for him - he'd stay clear tonight. Randy turned to leave, only to be faced with Lashley's wife - Lana! With a keen smile, the ravishing blonde wished Orton luck tonight - Lashley was rooting for him too! Orton smirked, then warned her to tell her husband to keep the hell away from the WWE World Championship match tonight. Lana left - but Orton showed a grimace of concern.

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A video graphic aired, showing that Money in the Bank 2020 was emanating from the WWE Performance Center - the WWE's "Athletic Hub" for future WWE Superstars.

Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton took us to a replay from this past week on Monday Night RAW. Six nights ago, after weeks of questions about whether the father and his son were on the same page, Dominik Mysterio would rescue his old man Rey Mysterio from a gang beating courtesy of La Invasíon. As Andrade and Zelina Vega looked to humiliate "the Legendary Luchador" once again, Dom would hit the scene - and together, the Mysterio Family teamed up ahead of Backlash, with a double 619 for the turncoat, Humberto Carrillo.

Tweets aired from this past week, showing images of Dominik Mysterio not only sitting under the learning tree of WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels, but getting into the ring with "the Heartbreak Kid" as well! All week long had Dom been training with his father Rey Mysterio and HBK at the WWE Performance Center - ahead of his official WWE in-ring debut, tonight at Backlash.


Padre e Hijo
Dominik Mysterio was raring to go, stretching with some deep squats in the dressing room. In a bodysuit reminiscent to what his father wore earlier in his career, the youngster was approached by Rey Mysterio. "The Legendary Luchador" slapped his son on the back, telling him about how hesitant he was at first. For so long, he vowed to never want his son to get involved with this business. This industry had taken so much from him, and possessed the power to make or break young stars, especially with the shadow he cast. Rey brought up Eddie Guerrero as one man he missed so much, but after so much deliberation: he realized there was no stopping him. Mysterio noted the past week had him thinking long and hard about everything, and while Dom would be green for a while, he felt he was ready. Rey told his son he was proud of him, when Dom stood up and told his father that he was sorry for everything. His attitude and his temper got the best of him, but that was only because he admired this sport so much. Rey compared his temper to a certain "Latino Heat's", when Rey decided to give his flesh and blood a pep talk!

Tonight was his in-ring debut, and there was nobody Rey Mysterio wanted his son to share this moment with other than himself. Much like he and Shawn Michaels had showed Dominik Mysterio all week long, tonight was their turn to strike back at La Invasíon, after all they had done to tarnish the Mysterio Family name. Tonight, Los Mysterios would bite back and show Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo what they were all about, and they would succeed. Father-and-son together, the two slapped hands and set off for the ring.

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Inside the WWE Performance Center, out waltzed La Invasíon. Led by the WWE United States Champion Andrade, dressed in a silver suit with the gold on full display around his waist. "El Idolo" was a proud man, standing side-by-side with business partner Zelina Vega, dressed in a business suit comprised of the colors of the Mexican flag. Accompanying the cousins known as 'Los Lotharios', Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo made cocky walks out to the ring in matching green tights. "El Amanté" oozed charisma with his long black hair tied back, while "El Estrella" smirked and blew off the jeers of the WWE Universe. a

As the Mexican contingent La Invasíon stood united in the ring, Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo of Los Lotharios awaited the arrival of their opponents. Moments later, Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio arrived! Los Mysterios wore matching blue and black, with the father-and-son tag team uniting for the very first time tonight, in Dominik's official WWE in-ring debut! Full of beans, the youngster showed great athleticism flipping into the ring as "the Legendary Luchador" posed, immediately pointing the finger at Andrade! The WWE United States Champion grinned at the kid's moxy, while Angel and Humberto got in the younger Mysterio's face. Rey and the referee were there to get involved, as "El Idolo" and Zelina each shied out to the ringside floor.

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5) Los Lotharios (with WWE United States Champion Andrade and Zelina Vega) vs Los Mysterios
The moment that Dominik Mysterio had been waiting for his entire life had arrived - his official in-ring debut for the WWE. Teaming alongside his father, "the Legendary Luchador" Rey Mysterio - Dominik had some huge shoes to fill. But it was about a lot more than making a strong first impression inside the squared circle. Tonight was to be Los Mysterios' revenge on La Invasíon for everything Andrade and his pack of hyenas had done to desecrete the Mysterio Family name. Immediately Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo bailed out from the ring, much to the ire of the father-and-son tag team. As they conferred with Andrade and Zelina Vega at ringside, they suddenly went surrounded once Rey and Dominik left the ring confronting La Invasíon. Even with the numbers advantage, "El Idolo" shrugged his shoulders in resistance to Los Mysterios, when Humberto and Angel shot inside. Rey and Dom were hot on their heels, but both cousins missed low front dropkicks. It enabled the Mysterio Family to make their move - both hitting the ropes and connecting with stereo-spinning headscissors! Into the corners went Angel and Humberto, who were bombarded by ten punches in respective corners by the Mysterio clan!

A jumping axe handle down from the second turnbuckle saw Dominik Mysterio conclude his attack on former friend Humberto Carrillo, leaving Rey Mysterio with Angel Garza. "El Amante" tried his earnest to slow down "the Legendary Luchador" with a basement dropkick, but when looking to follow up, showboating would cost him big - when a drop toe hold set Rey in position for a basement dropkick of his own to the jaw! With a nod, Rey applied a wristlock to maintain possession of Angel, when Dominik became legal for the first time in his newborn career. An armwrench saw Dom show the fundamentals, when Angel wisely struck with a hard elbow strike! A toe kick followed, when hitting the ropes and missing a flying clothesline. Dom foresaw it and hit the ropes with a springboard crossbody taking Angel down for an early near fall! Two arm drags followed, when the youngster nipped up to his feet! Daring Angel to bring it on, "El Amante" had had enough and scurried over to his younger cousin Humberto Carrillo for the tag. "La Estrella" smirked accepting of Dominik, but talked trash to the man he once referred to as a younger brother.

Humberto Carrillo told Dominik Mysterio that he taught him everything he knew before his old man dared, when going in for a lock-up. Receiving a flurry of leg kicks from the rookie, Carrillo caught one and swept his foot beneath him. "La Estrella" hit the ropes with a cartwheel, but Mysterio nipped back up and used the momentum off his opponent to climb the ropes - a springboard armdrag sending Carrillo across the ring! Pumped up, Rey tagged in and hit the ropes with a sunset flip connecting, transitioning right into a roundhouse kick upside the head. Los Mysterios were rolling, as Humberto found himself the recipient of a Russian legsweep from Dom leading to another roundhouse kick from Rey. The father-and-son tag team made eyes at a clearly impressed Andrade at ringside, as "the Legendary Luchado" hit the ropes just to have Angel Garza raise his knee into the kidneys. Rey fought him off with a forearm strike, when Carrillo rushed in to receive a back body drop sending both cousins hurdling to the floor over the top rope! Taking to the skies, a springboard crossbody plancha caught both members of Los Lotharios - as Rey locked eyes in a tense staredown with the WWE United States Champion!

Humberto Carrillo had the referee's attention, whilst Rey Mysterio exchanged words with Andrade at ringside - when Angel Garza came through the ropes with a baseball slide! "El Amante" showboated to the WWE Universe to Zelina Vega's applause, driving Rey into the apron from a fireman's carry position. Back inside, a cover got a near fall as the attacker connected with a double-underhook backbreaker. With a boot on his chest, the insulting pinfall attempt only got a one-count, when Humberto tagged in. Angel held Rey for a right hand from "La Estrella", taking off with a running cartwheel into a moonsault! It got a near fall as Rey showed resilience, when Carrillo locked eyes with Dominik once more. Tugging at the mask with disrespect, Carrillo dared Dom to come back for more. Rey broke loose and attempted to fire back with forearms, but a corkscrew roundhouse kick took him down! Carrillo was unfocused, looking to follow up sending Rey off the ropes - only to receive a satellite DDT! "The Legendary Luchador" got the tag to Dominik, who charged in and took on both men with clotheslines. With a hurricanrana for Angel, the youngster reversed a tilt-a-whirl attempt from Carrillo with an armdrag!

Angel Garza caught a toe kick and delivered a rising knee strike to the jaw, but "El Amante's" attempt at a powerbomb saw Dominik Mysterio escape with a code red - narrowly scraping a near fall! As Dominik hit the rope, Andrade teased grabbing his foot to trip him, but the plan would backfire once "El Idolo" found himself wiped out with a leaping crossbody plancha! Dominik exchanged words with an amazed Zelina Vega, but did not anticipate Humberto Carrillo to come soaring to the floor with a turning moonsault plancha! "La Estrella" was finding his stride as a member of La Invasíon, tossing the rookie back inside to his cousin. Garza drilled him with a slingshot inverted suplex, but curiously they turned their attention to the referee. Moments later, the WWE United States Champion would claim his revenge for Dom's disrespect - taking him down on the floor with a clothesline! As "El Idolo" adjusted his tie, Angel returned Dominik inside and connected with a springboard stunner off the bottom rope, but Dom sat up in resilience at the count of two! Rey Mysterio cheered for his son, as Angel furiously kicked him in the spine for good measure.

It was time the pants came off, as Angel Garza shed his green gear to reveal a pair of black trunks beneath! "El Amante" grinned to the ladies in attendance at WWE Performance Center, but his attempt at the Wingclipper saw the youngster fire out! Dominik sprung to action with a tornado DDT off the second turnbuckle, but as he reached out for a tag to his father, Humberto would come in illegally and drag the rookie back towards Los Lotharios' territory! Meanwhile Andrade came from behind, sweeping Rey from the apron. Once again "El Idolo" acted innocently, but Rey proceeded to respond with a wild swing for his bitter enemy! Humberto and Angel hit the ropes and delivered a breathtaking stereo handspring into a double Japanese armdrag to Dominik. Los Lotharios were feeling their oats, as Angel connected with a kneeling powerbomb, yet the newcomer had much left in the fight! The son of Rey Mysterio gritted his teeth when kicked once more by the savvy veteran. Garza hung him up to dry in the tree of woe, prompting both cousins to take turns delivering penalty kicks into the anatomy of Dominik. Finally the rookie spidered his way up to the top rope - evading an inbound spear from Humberto!

Dominik Mysterio landed a diving hurricanrana on Angel Garza, before slowly crawling his way to make the tag to Rey Mysterio! "The Legendary Luchador" came bounding in with a springboard seated senton for Humberto Carrillo. After ducking a clothesline, Mysterio connected with a springboard spinning headscissors on Angel. A slingshot Arabian press saw Rey cover "La Estrella", but Zelina Vega would pop Humberto's foot on the bottom rope. Andrade laughed in the face of a dismayed Mysterio at ringside, but the WWE United States Champion would not see Dominik Mysterio coming! A baseball slide propelled the newcomer into a sunset flip - sending "El Idolo" crashing into the announce table! Impacted by the back of his head, Dom was proving to be no pushover. Inside, Angel looked to cut Dominik's father's momentum short with the Wingclipper, but Rey caught him in a victory roll. "El Amante" bailed out to the floor alongside his cousin Humberto, when the father-and-son combination flew! A dive through the ropes from Rey and a diving crossbody from the top rope from Dom saw Los Mysterios criss-cross in beautiful fashion on Los Lotharios!

Sending Humberto Carrillo back into the ring, "La Estrella" rolled out to the apron before striking with a springboard headbutt for Dominik Mysterio. A corkscrew roundhouse kick went missed however, allowing Rey Mysterio to catch him with a low dropkick! Into the ropes went Carrillo, and Rey connected with the 619! Dominik caught Humberto in a rolling clutch cradle, only for Andrade to intentionally shove the rookie off the pin! It was in public view of the official, and he would demand that the WWE United States Champion and his business partner both he removed from ringside! With fury, Andrade and Zelina Vega tried to protest the decision. "El Idolo" threw down the WWE United States Championship gold, which sneakily went picked up by Angel Garza. "El Amante" had plans to use it on Rey, only to receive the Mexican destroyer for his troubles! Humberto then came bounding in with a springboard roundhouse kick for "the Legendary Luchador". Dominik then came from behind with an enzuigiri - and suddenly both Mysterios dialled it up for a double 619! Rey fought Angel off, as Dominik soared with a "Latino Heat" Frog Splash - claiming his first ever victory over Carrillo!

Winners: Los Mysterios (16:05)

In his first ever match as a WWE Superstar, the 24 year-old Dominik Mysterio had claimed his first victory tonight at WWE Backlash! Destiny had called for the youngster in his official in-ring WWE debut, and emotion hit him hard. Breaking down in tears with his father, Rey Mysterio hugged his son tight and kissed him on the forehead. Coming together on their feet, Los Mysterios had finally come together to get one over on La Invasíon. The reputation of the Mysterio Family's name had been restored tonight, in what was an emotional moment for "the Legendary Luchador". As Los Lotharios regrouped in disbelief on the rampway, Humberto Carrillo and Angel Garza both shook their heads in annoyance. Zelina Vega ran her mouth in Spanish at the victors, while the WWE United States Champion Andrade...could not help but smile! "El Idolo" held his title at his waist and even applauded Los Mysterios on their first win as a father-son tag team.

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An advertisement aired, promoting the all-new free version of the WWE Network. Bringing the best in entertainment, with no credit card required, subscribers could gain access to over 15,000 available titles today. With every pay-per-view event including WrestleMania, Royal Rumble and SummerSlam; original documentaries including The Undertaker: The Last Ride and WWE 24; exclusive shows such as WWE Ruthless Aggression, WWE's The Bump, WWE Ride Along and Broken Skull Sessions - as well as everything from the NXT, NXT UK and 205 Live brands - it was all available now. Take a Look Inside... the Power, the Beauty, the Passion, the History, the Moments and the Emotions.

Down But Not Out
Backstage, The Miz sulked and sobbed as he complained to John Morrison about the loss suffered earlier tonight. Not only was the most winningest tag team on Friday Night SmackDown no longer the SmackDown Tag Team Champions - but to add insult to injury, the gold was now around the grotesque waists of Otis and Tucker! Growing increasingly frustrated, Miz practically threw a tantrum in disbelief that Heavy Machinery were now the champs. "The Shaman of Sexy" admitted that they messed up big time tonight, but while they were down, they were not out. JoMo talked about the contract he signed when he decided to come and rejoin the Miz on Friday Night SmackDown on FOX last December. When he put pen to paper, he knew they were destined for great things, including accolades and gold. With that said, Morrison informed Miz of a special rematch clause in his contract - any time he lost gold, he was guaranteed a rematch whenever he wanted. Miz's eyes widened, as he felt hope was restored. Morrison claimed he had already made the call to the executives down at FOX - and they had their rematch, this coming Friday on SmackDown. Miz hugged his best friend and told him he loved him!

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

Michael Cole and Corey Graves relayed the announcement for this coming week on Friday Night SmackDown, before showing footage of the happenings that took place earlier tonight on the Backlash Kickoff Show. King Corbin was victorious against Apollo Crews to continue the roll "Wrestling Royalty" was on. All it took was one misstep for Crews to lose, cutting his momentum short.

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The Law
Sonya Deville
came walking out to the WWE Performance Center, plagued by a chorus of boos. Sticking her nose up at the select WWE Universe on hand, "the Jersey Devil" walked down with a disapproving grimace on her face. For the better part of five years, she and Mandy Rose had been Fire & Desire - until Mandy's blossoming romance with Otis drew Sonya to plot against her out of spite. In the ring, Deville took to the microphone to address "the Golden Goddess" about how tonight was the night. After so long, tonight would be the last night Mandy got to prolick around and set her entire gender back fifteen years! Deville spoke about how in hindsight, she couldn't understand why she ever thought she was her best friend. Mandy was so vain, it made her sick! After all of their history together, though WWE Tough Enough and defending Mandy from critics; through the WWEPC, and all of her self-doubts. From NXT to Monday Night RAW, to Friday Night SmackDown - but now, this was where it would end. All of Mandy's vanity would come crashing down, because "the Precious Peach" would be crushed here. She planned to remind Mandy why she was "the Law" when a woman like her destroys a Diva like Mandy!

Mandy Rose came walking out to the ring, and while the visual effect showed "the Golden Goddess" in all of her beauty, the Kinesio tape on her shoulder told the story. After the steel chair shot to the arm forty-eight hours ago, the blonde was in determined to finish this business with Sonya Deville and leave their friendship in the past. Storming down to the ring, Sonya hesitated and continued to run her mouth to "the Precious Peach" in the color of the fruit. The leather clad Deville then abruptly took off to the ringside area! Around ringside, Mandy powered after Sonya until the two members of Fire & Desire returned to the ring.

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6) Mandy Rose vs Sonya Deville
The referee was able to divide them into their corners, but once the bell sounded, Mandy Rose was hot after Sonya Deville! As "the Jersey Devil" tried to escape to ringside once more, Mandy would grab a hold of Sonya's foot before tugging her back onto the canvas with a big faceplant! "The Golden Goddess" was showing a more physical side against the woman she was once inseparable with, who was well-versed in mixed martial arts! As Sonya flopped like a fish on the canvas, Mandy clubbed at the back of her head, soon ramming her face into the canvas repeatedly. Once again Deville retreated to the corner, attempting to kick Rose away just for her to pull at the foot and cause Sonya to land flat on the canvas the hard way! Rolling out to the floor desperately, Mandy rolled out after her and dropped her with a clothesline! Hurling Sonya back inside, Rose followed one more time just to receive a spear! With a side headlock applied, Deville brutally hammered away at Mandy before putting the stomps to her former friend's shoulder. Fire & Desire was a long time in the past as far as Sonya was concerned, as she took the time to take in this moment.

A chest kick rocked "the Precious Peach", who shot back with a shoulder tackle with a series of thrusts in the corner. Mandy Rose favored her taped shoulder however, which only afforded Sonya Deville the opportunity to strike with another rising knee strike, targeting the shoulder! "The Law" took the arm and continue to pound away at it with hammerfists, when Mandy tried to rope her in. Unfortunately, Sonya telegraphed a clothesline and would apply a hanging cross-armbreaker - dangling upside down over the top turnbuckle! Mandy screamed in pain, when Deville broke the illegal hold at the count of four. Rolling backwards to her feet at ringside, Sonya would return with a sliding knee strike for the seated "Golden Goddess", only for a near fall. With two handstand knee drops across the shoulder, Deville contorted the blonde's shoulder in a way designed to inflict further damage to the shoulder! An armbar saw Mandy slowly fight back to her feet, when Sonya powered her up for a spinebuster. Rose kicked out at two, when a sleeper hold was applied. The submission expertise of Sonya Deville was coming in handy, but Mandy resiliently worked to her feet again.

With two back elbows, Mandy Rose hit the ropes and ducked a clothesline - catching Sonya Deville with a pop-up flapjack! With a snap suplex, "the Golden Goddess" flicked her hair back as "the Law" rolled out to the floor once again. In hot pursuit, Mandy would not let up against Sonya as she muscled her up with a charging shoulder tackle slamming her former best friend's head into the side of the steel steps! Back inside, Mandy looked for Kiss the Rose just for Sonya to sidestep - and a jumping roundhouse kick took her out! Deville looked for the Devil's Advocate, when Mandy reversed into an inside cradle for a near fall. Rose soon caught Deville on the jaw with Kiss the Rose - but the cover would see Deville power out at two! "The Precious Peach" was fuelled with animosity, as she decided to line up a second one. Deville caught her in mid-motion with an armringer, soon flipping over with a bridging armbar! Mandy screamed in agony, as Deville would not let up. But Mandy refused, and was somehow able to get her foot on the bottom rope. Rose tried to pull herself up, when Deville clocked her with Kiss the Rose herself! Sonya planted Mandy using the Elevator to shockingly take the win.

Winner: Sonya Deville (9:29)

"The Law" had been set by Sonya Deville, who did everything in her power to ensure that Mandy Rose did not get the upper hand again. Deville smiled over her best friend's body, her hand going raised by the official. "The Golden Goddess" clutched her shoulder on the canvas, when Sonya abruptly took an evil turn - delivering another chest kick for the Fire of her Desire! Deville once again put the boots to Mandy's shoulder, before re-applying the bridging armbar on defenceless Mandy. The referee tried to get involved, as Heavy Machinery re-emerged causing Sonya to run for the hills. The new SmackDown Tag Team Champions ran Deville off, as Otis attended to his "Precious Peach". Tucker consoled his best buddy, as Deville smiled at the top of the rampway. As far as she was concerned - "the Law" had arrived!

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An advertisement aired, promoting the fourth episode of the Limited Series Event - 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride'. "Chapter 4: The Battle Within" would premiere tonight, immediately following Backlash - exclusively on the WWE Network.

Of Different Fibre

Charly Caruso was standing by backstage with the WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre. With his match with Randy Orton not too long to wait, Charly wished to understand "the Scottish Warrior's" standpoint at this juncture of the title reign of his dreams. Drew smirked, complimenting her journalistic integrity. As was expected at the door - his differences with Randy Orton had been a psychiatrist's fever dream. First, Drew was caught in "the Viper's" problems with Edge; then, he and Randy engaged in a tense game of human chess; somehow his 3MB pals got dragged into it, but all in all - this business with "the Apex Predator" was everything he had expected coming in. McIntyre maintained that this WWE World Championship reign was unlike anything he could have ever planned. If Charly had asked three months ago if he'd be headlining WWE Network specials back-to-back with the likes of Brock Lesnar, Edge and Randy Orton, he would think Charly was lying. Those three names were future WWE Hall of Famers - and any WWE Superstar would have retired happy to do what he did. There was something different about "the Scottish Terminator:" he was not going to end his career if he lost the title tonight.

Drew McIntyre planned to keep it going. In the WWE World Champion's mind, he was just getting started! One day, "the Scottish Terminator" vowed that he too would be up on that stage with all three of those names, among the other all-time greats in WWE history as a WWE Hall of Famer: because he was made of different fibre! Randy Orton could talk about how much he had done in this business and for this business, and how Randy had done everything in his power to instil a shed of self-doubt in the WWE World Champion's mind. The truth was he was ready, and tonight he was going to be the one to take "the Viper's" tongue and rip it straight from that snake's mouth. McIntyre vowed to make "the Apex Predator" his prey, because he considered himself "the Collector" - and he was planning to keep on collecting on the opposition. Up walked MVP with a cocky grin on his face. Greeting Drew cordially, he was dressed to the nines especially to wish "the Scottish Warrior" luck tonight. "The Franchise Player" informed him that Bobby Lashley sent his regards - but unlike Orton with Lana earlier, Drew welcomed the challenge, and told Lashley to find some balls and come cash in his Money in the Bank tonight!

☰☰☰

Following discussion from Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton, a video package aired centred around the psychological battle between Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton. As they prepared to compete for the WWE World Championship, "the Scottish Terminator's" reign of a lifetime aired - how it started with winning the 2020 Men's Royal Rumble match, and truly began with a stunning victory against Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania. While McIntyre had quickly earned his stripes as the top dog on Monday Night RAW, it was all thanks to Randy Orton who made McIntyre's win against Edge at Money in the Bank possible. "The Apex Predator" claimed to be one step ahead of the Scotsman, who disagreed sternly. Orton proceeded to play head games with McIntyre, claiming him to be too hotheaded. Bringing back memories of the past with 3MB, Orton took Heath Slater and Jinder Mahal out to serve a purpose to Drew - who he would leave laying with a brutal Punt Kick. "The Viper" believed he was the next WWE World Champion, and in 2020, his truest colors had shone through. Tonight, it was McIntyre's goal to prove to the world that he was here to stay on top of the RAW Brand.

Randy Orton made his walk out to the WWE Performance Center. In a sleeveless black hoody and black trunks with orange trim, the former nine-time WWE World Champion marched poised to leave Backlash tonight as the new, ten-time champ. Celebrating over twenty years since his WWE debut in 2020, "the Apex Predator" bided his time and soaked in the moment that would in his mind foreshadow the ushering in of his ninth reign on top of the mountain. Into the ring, Orton stood on the second rope and watched over the WWEPC, when interrupted by the bagpipes of the champ!

The WWE World Champion was a determined man who had waited weeks for this match. Drew McIntyre emerged to the stage, taking in the scene before him. There was nobody present in the WWE Performance Center for his life-changing win at WrestleMania against Brock Lesnar; or his title defense against Edge at Money in the Bank - but tonight thirty members of the WWE Universe were present for Backlash. "The Scottish Terminator" stomped to the ring, getting into a confrontation with Randy Orton. The referee kept them separated, as Mike Rome performed ring introductions.

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7) WWE World Championship
Drew McIntyre (c) vs Randy Orton
He had led by example as a fighting WWE World Champion thus far, boasting victories over Brock Lesnar, Big Show and Edge leading into this match. While Drew McIntyre was living the life of Riley, he had yet to meet an individual like "the Apex Predator". Randy Orton bided his time as he and Drew circled the ring as the bell sounded. Moments of hesitation built to Drew cornering Orton easily with a collar-and-elbow tie-up. Orton tried to barge back only to receive two big forearms, as well as a knife-edged chop! Orton shoved McIntyre back prompting the champ to try and come for more - only to be halted by the referee, who threatened disqualification. Orton smirked knowingly, having proclaimed McIntyre a hothead for weeks. Randy talked trash and urged McIntyre to take the coward's way out, which only brought McIntyre to corner him again with forearms! This time the challenger battled back with strikes of his own. Off the ropes Orton sent the Scotsman into the ropes - just for Drew to cling to the ropes to avert "the Viper", who he outmaneuvered using a big clothesline!

In the corner once more, Drew McIntyre delivered a string of shoulder thrusts to Randy Orton, who struck back with an opportune knee lift. "The Viper" battled back with two right hands before a European uppercut blasted the WWE World Champion - or so the challenger thought! McIntyre squared up to Orton, absorbing the blow, prompting a second shot from Orton. McIntyre struck back with another loud chop that echoed throughout the WWE Performance Center! Orton again retorted to a toe kick, sending Drew into ropes. An early draping DDT was on "the Apex Predator's" agenda, but Drew fought him with a big boot over the top rope! Climbing to the top rope, a diving clothesline took Orton down for the first fall of the match, but Orton was able to slither out at two. Across the ring, McIntyre pursued, when Orton used the top rope for momentum to connect with a kick to the leg. Drew caught a second and grabbed the challenger by the foot - though Orton ducked another clothesline and lashed out with another European uppercut! "The Scottish Terminator" again absorbed the blow and roared in Orton's face. The challenger struck with a clothesline - which McIntyre took!

Drew McIntyre blasted Randy Orton with another clothesline of his own, taking "the Viper" down to the corner! With a series of punches, McIntyre then proceeded to drive his knee into the corner, sandwiching the challenger's head against the turnbuckle pad. Out to the apron, "the Apex Predator" shied from McIntyre who attempted to club away at him using the Beats of Bodhran. Orton however was one step ahead - foreseeing it and taking the WWE World Champion out to the floor with an inverted neckbreaker over the second rope! McIntyre collapsed to the floor with Orton falling all the same. The difference was when Orton sat up, he grinned from ear to ear; as the champ showed his first signs of weakness. Randy mounted the Scotsman with a series of clenched fists to the temple, drawing the official to intervene. Forced to intiate a count, the challenger rolled McIntyre in and covered - but the champ stayed alive. A seated sleeper hold saw Orton keep him at bay, but Drew worked back up to a vertical base. Able to overthrow Orton and send him rolling backwards, McIntyre hit the ropes but missed a big boot - and Orton dropped him with a scoop powerslam!

The whiplash effected the WWE World Champion, whose equilibrium still had to be in question following the Punt Kick received in the backstage trap several weeks ago. Randy Orton crept over Drew McIntyre with several more fists to the temple, when the champ shoved him off. Orton smirked again, hitting the ropes and dropping a knee drop perfectly brushing the forehead of McIntyre - for another near fall. Resting his forearm across the side of the Scotsman's cranium, the official forced the break when he shoved him off again. Rolling out to the apron, "the Viper" followed the defensive Scotsman with a draping neckbreaker on the floor! With arms raised to the WWE Universe, they booed the challenger's arrogance, with the condition of the champion in question. Struggling to drag him back into the ring, Orton struck with yet another hangman's neckbreaker for a two-count. Another sleeper hold went applied, when the Scotsman attempted to fight with rear headbutts to the face of "the Viper!" Orton broke it and attempted the Lou Thesz press - but the powerful "Scottish Terminator" saw the challenger sent overhead with a standing belly-to-belly suplex!

Still, Drew McIntyre was feeling the effects and tried to shake off the damage done by Randy Orton. A clothesline went followed by a second one. He ducked a clothesline as he threw Orton off the ropes, catching him with a spinebuster for a near fall! Energetically the WWE World Champion came to his feet and let out another battlecry to the WWE Universe, but was clearly hurting. With a charging clothesline hitting hard in the corner, "the Scottish Terminator" whipped Orton into the buckle just for brief hesitation allowing the challenger to catch him with a high boot and a dropkick! Another near fall saw Orton grow more determined, bringing Drew to his feet and powering him overhead. From a powerbomb position, Orton connected with the over-shoulder neckbreaker, hooking the leg only to see McIntyre get a shoulder up again! Into the corner, "the Viper" put the stomps to McIntyre. Out to show the people that he was no "Terminator", Orton's playing to the crowd only allowed McIntyre to fight up with two boots to the ribcage. Orton grabbed hold of one, when a variation of a front enzuigiri saw Drew slowly come back to his feet - just for Orton to catch him with an exploder suplex!

"The Apex Predator" methodically began to stomp at each limb of "the Scottish Terminator". Dead set on breaking Drew McIntyre down, Randy Orton circled the body beginning with the feet. To the arms, a final stomp to the temple rocked McIntyre, as Orton followed him to the corner. Powering Drew to the top rope, "the Viper" planned a superplex following two right hands. But as he ascended to the top rope, the WWE World Champion responded with the Glasgow Kiss rocking Orton! A suplex sent Orton landing face-first on the canvas below, when McIntyre flew with a diving elbow drop - only for a near fall! Finding momentum from deep within, Drew clutched his neck but fired with clotheslines, and a belly-to-belly suplex saw him spring back to his feet with a nip-up! McIntyre was feeling it now, and initiated the countdown to 'Claymore Country' for the challenger. Orton telegraphed it and ducked out to the apron, but Drew was there to prevent his great escape. With Beats of Bodhran levelling the abdomen of "the Viper", Drew planned to deadlift him to the top rope with a superplex! Desperate shots enabled Randy to hang on, able to rock Drew back with a European uppercut.

Randy Orton breathed a sigh of relief as he had Drew McIntyre hung in the tree of woe position...until the WWE World Champion used his unwordly core strength to power back up and deliver a two-handed choke suplex! Like a spider, Drew slinked back up and climbed to a better position on the top rope, but Orton was able to roll out to the floor. McIntyre jumped down and slid out of the ring in hot pursuit, but after ducking a clothesline, the challenger struck with the RKO out of nowhere! The WWE World Champion was left down and out, and Orton was quick to drag his carcass back to the apron. Rolling his lifeless body inside, Randy wasted no time making the cover - but his ninth title reign's commencing was not to be - Drew powering out at two! "The Apex Predator" shook his head unimpressed. On all fours, he stalked Drew McIntyre as the dazed champion tried to get back up. Pounding the canvas with his forearms behind the unsuspecting Scotsman, Orton attempted a second RKO - but Drew shoved him off and connected with a jumping neckbreaker! Once again the champ found himself on the offensive, hitting the ropes just to miss a clothesline.

Drew McIntyre blocked a toe kick from Randy Orton and slung "the Apex Predator" high in the air for a backdrop to the canvas, before taking off for the ropes and executing an elbow drop! A cover got only a two-count, when the WWE World Champion stalked the challenger now in the corner. Coming from beneath with an electric chair drop - McIntyre placed Orton on the second rope before dropping him with the inverted Alabama slam, for another near fall! It was a war of attirtion as was expected coming in, but McIntyre looked to finish this once and for all. Signalling for the Future Shock DDT, McIntyre received backlash from Orton, who struggled free. The RKO was blocked, but Drew struck with a second Glasgow Kiss! Hitting the ropes, Orton would catch him with another Lou Thesz press. Fists rained down on the champ, when Orton hit the ropes and draped the forearm across McIntyre's chest. With more forearm pounds of the canvas, Orton stalked McIntyre up for another RKO - just for McIntyre to turn him around and plant him with the Future Shock DDT! The pinfall was made, but Orton was barely able to muscle out before the three!

It had been exactly the fight the WWE World Champion had expected. The first Scottish-born champ waited impatiently from the corner, jockeying for the Claymore Kick once more. Randy Orton stumbled back up to his feet, but as Drew McIntyre raced across the ring, Orton cut him off with a dramatic RKO! Both men went down hurt, so much so Orton could not follow up with the cover. Finally, "the Apex Predator" used all of his might to force McIntyre onto his back once again. Draping himself across him, Orton covered - yet the Scotsman somehow found the ability to kick out in time! Dismayed, Orton began to rock himself back and forth. Ever the demented individual, "the Apex Predator" was dead set on ending his night becoming a nine-time WWE World Champion. Going back to the Punt Kick, Orton stalked and stalked - but McIntyre narrowly dodged it! The Celtic Cross dropped Orton on the back of his head, but as the cover was made, Orton got a shoulder up. This was a battle like Drew McIntyre had not been familiar with thus far in his much-fantasized title reign. Crawling back to his feet in a haze, "the Scottish Terminator" looked for the powerbomb, but Orton landed out on his feet - delivering a second inverted neckbreaker!

The WWE World Champion fell out to the apron, and his challenger was right there with the draping DDT planting him! Randy Orton mounted Drew McIntyre with a pile-on cover, but once again "the Scottish Terminator" kicked out at the count of two. "The Apex Predator" could not believe the fight in the Scotsman, but grew back up to a vertical base. Running his mouth, Orton resorted to slapping McIntyre repeatedly. He told Drew he was not a real World Champion, nor would he ever be! Randy told Drew he was living in a fantasy world, but this was where he would snap him back to reality. Back on his feet, "the Viper" held him by the jaw and told him to kiss his dreams goodbye - but McIntyre for a third time knocked him silly with the Glasgow Kiss! The headbutt to the jaw rocked Orton to the core, when an RKO was attempted. Drew was able to send his rival off into the ropes, witnessing Orton come back to receive the Claymore Kick! For good measure, "the Scottish Terminator" returned to the corner and executed one more Claymore Kick to claim the victory!

Winner, and still WWE World Champion: Drew McIntyre (20:52)

'Claymore Country' brought the WWE World Champion to retain his title. An all-out war with Randy Orton behind him, Drew McIntyre stumbled back to his feet. Aided by the referee, he would have his hand raise, being presented with the title he had worked tirelessly to hold onto. Randy Orton rolled out to the floor a beaten man, having tried everything within his power to ensure he left Backlash as the nine-time WWE World Champion. Instead, it was the 35 year-old from Ayr, Scotland, who was becoming more of a Legend with each and every title defense. Adding Orton to his list of victories, "the Collector" he was - but as Drew raised the title high, out came Bobby Lashley! "The All Mighty" was not dressed for competition, but held the Money in the Bank briefcase in hand. Flanked by his wife Lana and his close advisor MVP, the power trio were dressed to impress. Drew was surprised to find Bobby smile at him and offer a handshake! Unsure what to make of it all, the Scotsman refused to turn his back to the contingent. MVP and Lana applauded Drew, when even more puzzlingly - Lashley opted to be the first man to leave the ring! Lashley tapped his briefcase reminding the champ who had the power of cashing in.

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An advertisement aired, centered around he countless weapons and stunts used by WWE Superstars, such as table smashes, ladder dives, cage falls, chair swings and step blows; it was 'The One Night A Year WWE Goes Extreme'. WWE Extreme Rules would air live on the WWE Network on Sunday, July 19.

Brothers Against The Good Brothers
With their flag raised ever-high, the O.C. brought their detestable rebellion to Backlash inside the WWE Performance Center. What had begun in the aftermath of WrestleMania, where their best friend AJ Styles found himself buried alive at the hands of "the Phenom", Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson had begun a campaign of sorts. It was a protest designed to call WWE higher management's attention, and demand repercussions for the Undertaker's deeds over the past thirty years! Climbing into the ring, "the Big LG" continued to wave his flag high, while K.A. presented a picket sign in hand. Reading #DownWithDeadman", Karl began by ranting about how this had all gone on long enough. For over two months, they had waited for change and action from the WWE. Gallows said they should have known better than WWE to put a WWE Superstar's health and wellbeing ahead of the coveted U.S. dollar. Anderson claimed that enough was enough, because it was time for a change! Ordering that "the Deadman" be held personally responsible for what he had done, Anderson claimed that they were officially as of this moment on strike!

Luke Gallows agreed, telling the WWE Universe that they were not leaving the ring until they had heard from the horse's mouth itself. Karl Anderson demanded to hear from the brass, stating that until they were met by someone from the Board of Directors, the O.C. were not planning on leaving the ring! The O.C. were holding up Backlash, as "the Big LG" tried to defend their actions: reiterating that they weren't moving an inch. Abruptly, hellfire and brimstone appeared - and moments later, out walked Kane! "The Big Red Monster" donned the mask once more, not planning on negotiating with the O.C. by any means. Kane immediately went at it with Gallows and Anderson, with throat thrusts and uppercuts rocking both men. K.A. struck with a chop block enabling Gallows to sound off with uppercuts of his own, but Kane responded with a sidewalk slam for Anderson! Gallows was grabbed by the throat, with a Chokeslam in mind - but K.A. low blowed him from behind. Gallows struck with a big boot, when the O.C. delivered the Magic Killer! Standing tall, Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows continued to run their mouths over Kane's fallen body; Gallows breaking the picket sign over the WWE Legend's spine!

Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows took the microphone and questioned if that was all WWE had to offer. "The Big LG" called Kane a hasbeen from the past, claiming the Mayor of Knox County couldn't save WWE from them! The O.C. reiterated that they weren't leaving - when a gong came over the WWE Performance Center. An eerie blue light shone, and smoke filled the WWEPC providing flashbacks for "the Goodbrothers!" Anderson and Gallows prepared to fight, when the lights went out - returning with the Undertaker's abrupt arrival! Anderson and Gallows were mortified to see "the Deadman!" Deciding to run for the hills, they turned around to be faced by Kane. The Brothers of Destruction closed in, with Undertaker and Kane bringing the fight to the O.C. members. KA and "the Big LG" tried to run, just for Kane to take Gallows down with the Chokeslam. Anderson tried to run too, only to be dragged in by both WWE Legends. Kane clutched him by the throat, before tossing him to Undertaker: for the Tombstone Piledriver to leave KA laying. The O.C.'s strike was over, as far as the Brothers of Destruction were concerned. Undertaker and Kane stood in dominance, as they saluted one another alone in the ring.

☰☰☰

An advertisement aired, promoting all of the merchandise available on WWEShop.com. "Find What Fits You".

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On a splitscreen, the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy and his challenger Sheamus both headed for the ring. Walking hallways of the WWE Performance Center, momentuous music played in the background as personal matters had brought them here. For "the Celtic Warrior", it was about avenging the loss from the WWE Universal Championship Tournament Finals back at Money in the Bank. For "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior", it was about avenging all of the nasty comments made from the Irishman about his struggles with addiction. It would all be settled - in a Ladder match!

Following discussion from Michael Cole and Corey Graves, a video package aired, recapping what led Jeff Hardy and Sheamus to the Ladder match tonight. In the fallout of WrestleMania, destiny called to eight SmackDown Superstars as the WWE Universal Championship was declared vacant. At Money in the Bank, all it took was one misstep from Sheamus to allow "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" to prosper and embark on a path of redemption. As Jeff once again thrived on top of the SmackDown Brand however, "the Celtic Warrior" was the one to give the new champ a rude awakening. A brutal attack led to Sheamus using a ladder against the North Carolinian, and the Irishman would reveal the well-documented skeletons in Hardy's closet. Yet as Jeff battled inner-turmoil with his demons, he refused to stand down. To Sheamus, it was about gaining what he felt was owed to him for years of service. To Jeff, it was about not only hanging onto the prize he strived through battles to catch another glimpse of the top prize, but avenge all of the disrespect hurled his way by Sheamus. At Backlash, it was declared they would once again do battle - in a Ladder match.

As Greg Hamilton introduced the rules for the main event, a ladder stood ominously in the aisleway. Sheamus came bursting out to the stage with arms stretched wide open, the light reflecting from the challenger's pale skin. En route to ringside, "the Celtic Warrior" glanced upward and observed the ladder, taking several steps up. Posing alongside it, the Irishman felt at home at such a height - but one had to call into question whether he knew what he was in for. Climbing into the ring, Sheamus waited, all the while glancing up at the WWE Universal Championship hanging in the balance.

"The Celtic Warrior" warmed up in black and white trunks, Jeff Hardy soon made his arrival - with a familiar soundtrack blasting throughout the WWE Performance Center! "No More Words" by Endeverafter played the WWE Universal Champion to the stage, full of adrenaline in a fishnet black shirt. With Dark Maul-inspired facepaint, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" raced to the ring, ducking the ladder in the aisleway. As Hardy took to the corners to greet the WWE Universe, Sheamus waited patiently at ringside. He and Hardy would eventually took their corners, as Greg Hamilton offered formal introductions.


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8) WWE Universal Championship - Ladder match
Jeff Hardy (c) vs Sheamus
The bell sounded, as Sheamus and Jeff Hardy both stepped forward. After the intense battles the two had had over the past several weeks, the WWE Universal Championship cast a shadow over each man as they both looked upward. From there, Sheamus threw a punch - but Jeff saw it coming! Blocking with several of his own, "the Celtic Warrior" got in a knee lift before sending Jeff face-first into the turnbuckle pad. With two more body blows using his knee in the corner, Jeff would quickly turn it around on him. The redhead was cornered with rights and lefts, until an eye rake saw the Irishman stumble out. Hitting the ropes, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" would duck a back elbow and come flying back with a flying forearm! Landing atop Sheamus and burying him in punches, the challenger ducked out to the ringside area - but Jeff was not about to let up. Climbing to the top rope, the WWE Universal Champion dedicated himself to the adrenaline he had craved his entire career - a diving crossbody taking Sheamus out on the floor! The WWE Universe were fully behind the champ, as he headed toward the ladder on the rampway.

The WWE Universal Champion reached the ladder and took it down, planning to retrieve his title early. Sheamus crawled back to his feet, receiving a shot to the chest from the lengthways steel grasped in the hands of Jeff Hardy! Dumping it on top of "the Celtic Warrior", he put the boots to him before hoisting it back up. Resting it diagonally against the ring apron, Sheamus blocked an attempt at sending him face-first into the steel. Instead dropping "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" with a body slam on top of it, Hardy's body sadistically rolled down the ladder to the ringside floor! But that wasn't all, as the Irishman proceeded to send the champ face-first a second time - this time using a catapult! As Hardy collapsed to the floor a second time, the redhead slid the ladder inside with plans to claim what he believed was rightfully his. Set up, Sheamus climbed halfway up when Jeff crawled back inside. With shots to the back, Hardy dragged his foe back down by the foot. Another fistfight broke out, but Sheamus would knock Hardy down hard with a clothesline. Running his mouth, Sheamus knelt beside him and began punishing the champ with right hands!

"The Celtic Warrior" picked Jeff Hardy up with the fireman's carry, delivering him handily to the ring apron. As Sheamus turned his attention back to the ladder however, he did not see the WWE Universal Champion scale the top rope like a cat - and a missile dropkick would take down not only Sheamus, but the ladder! Stumbling back to their feet, Jeff rocked the challenger with a second dropkick. As the redhead blocked a toe kick, Hardy responded with a spinout enzuigiri that sent him through the ropes. Picking up the ladder, the champ proceeded to use it as a battering ram - knocking Sheamus from the apron to the floor! Scurrying to reset the ladder in the center, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" proceeded to climb when once again came Sheamus. Looking to drag Jeff down by the feet, Hardy clung to the rung of the ladder like a pull-up bar - wrapping his legs around the Irishman's head and executing a hurricanrana! Knocking the ladder down, Hardy delivered a gourdbuster right on top of the steel to leave the Irishman clutching his ribs in pain. Hardy slowly set the ladder back up but as he climbed, Sheamus shoulder barged the ladder over - and Hardy landed throat-first on the top rope.

Jeff Hardy rolled out to the apron, but Sheamus walked over with further punishment in mind. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" initially tried to fight what he sensed was coming next, when the redhead began to pound without relent at the chest of the WWE Universal Champion! Beats of Bodhran impacted the chest of the champ hard, when Sheamus tore open his fishnet shirt. The facepaint was beginning to peel away from Hardy's face, as "the Celtic Warrior" dragged Hardy back inside the hard way with a hip toss over the top rope! Landing spine-first across the ladder, Sheamus teased Jeff's past habits and advised he consider medication for that landing. Rolling out to ringside, Sheamus curiously secured a second ladder and prepared toslide it inside - when suddenly Hardy came bounding back with a baseball slide! The ladder went straight into the face of the challenger, who fell to the ringside floor in a heap. Bleeding from the nose, Hardy paid tribute to his brother Matt Hardy with a diving axe handle off the apron. Sliding the ladder into the ring, Jeff led Sheamus back inside, before charging at the corner with a leaping one-man Poetry in Motion!

"The Celtic Warrior" went down to all fours again, when Jeff Hardy used the second ladder to dump it on top of Sheamus. Ascending the second ladder, the WWE Universal Champion prepared to retrieve his gold just for Sheamus to hurl the second ladder into the spine of the champ! "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" dropped to the canvas, where the Irishman effortlessly delivered a running powerslam. Sheamus again laughed at the expense of his rival, advising he consider special help to fix his aches and pains. Climbing the ladder, Sheamus believed he was in for an easy night just for Hardy to come from behind once again! With the blunt edge of the ladder into the spine, the challenger was stopped in his tracks, when Hardy propped the ladder between two rungs of the first ladder, and balanced it across the middle rope! Jeff tried to batter Sheamus down with lefts and rights, when stopped dead in his tracks following a big boot. Another fireman's carry dropped Jeff jaw-first on the horizontal ladder, when the challenger knocked Hardy down to the ringside floor with a jumping knee strike! The redhead used the vertical ladder to climb once more, and Jeff appeared out of it.

Sheamus reached high for the WWE Universal Championship overhead, when foam shot up in his face - from a fire extinguisher! Jeff Hardy had smartly saved his title reign with whatever had been hiding beneath the ring, and climbed up the opposite side. Sheamus tried wiping the foam from his eyes as "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" resumed hammering him with whatever he had. An eye rake saw "the Celtic Warrior" even his visible odds, but Jeff would clunk his opponent wih a shot from the base of the extinguisher tank! Landing spine first and bouncing off the horizontally laid ladder below, Jeff saw his opportunity and tried reaching the top - only to have Sheamus tip the two ladders over in desperation! Hardy landed on his feet, but would leapfrog the fallen-sideways ladders with a flying forearm for the challenger. More shots in the corner saw the challenger headbutt to gain a breather, just for Hardy to attempt the Twist of Fate. Sheamus reversed, catching Hardy with the Irish Curse backbreaker! Two more in succession landed, with "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" left down and broken.

Back to the ladder, Sheamus set the ladder up and began to climb - but Jeff Hardy dragged himself up using the rungs on the opposite side. "The Celtic Warrior" could not help but shake his head in dismay. The resilience of the WWE Universal Champion would surely kill him, Sheamus mused, as he reached for a handful of hair before clubbing him with another right hand. Jeff was dazed, as Sheamus hoisted him over his shoulder - the White Noise supposedly next in line. But instead, Jeff would land on his feet on the canvas below, and a sunset flip would bring Sheamus crashing down on the canvas! The WWE Universe on-hand in the WWE Performance Center had to be loving every moment of this Ladder match confrontation, as the wounded champ used the ropes to bring himself back to a vertical base. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" reset the ladder and slowly began to climb, as Sheamus remained motionless on the edge of the apron. Hardy had one hand on the title gold, when down to the ring came Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura! After "the Artist's" unsuccessful opportunity three weeks ago, Shin climbed the ladder as Cesaro crept up on the same side of Hardy.

Forty-eight hours after The Bar's battle leading to reuniting against Jeff Hardy on Friday Night SmackDown, Sheamus had reinforcements in the Artist Collective's own! Shinsuke Nakamura landed forearm strikes to Jeff Hardy, when Cesaro bombsrded from behind with similar. Jeff skulked lifelessly to the canvas, when "the Artist" and "the Swiss Cyborg" went over to Sheamus. Helping "the Celtic Warrior" to his feet frantically, Sheamus shook off the cobwebs and began to climb the ladder with Cesaro's help. Jeff tried to battle Cesaro in the ring, only to be struck with the Kinshasa for his troubles! Cesaro dropped him with the Neutralizer for good measure... when down the rampway darted Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak! The new WWE Intercontinental Champion and his training partner evened the odds against Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura, with the four men battling to the ringside floor. Sheamus was on his way to the WWE Universal Championship, when Jeff miraculously came back to life with a dropkick sending the ladder tipping over. As the Irishman collapsed to the canvas, he rolled out to the floor. Jeff would ascend the steel throne - being offered one of two options.

Glancing up one more time at the WWE Universal Championship, Jeff Hardy's daredevil instincts led to another moment of inner-turmoil for the champion. Surveying the chaotic five-man melee at ringside meanwhile, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" took a death-defying choice by climbing to the top of the ladder and soaring through the heavens onto Sheamus, Daniel Bryan, Cesaro, Drew Gulak and Shinsuke Nakamura! The WWE Performance Center was loud for the Ladder match combatants, as all six men laid beaten down at ringside. Jeff was somehow the first man to move, and he used every ounce of energy he had left to climb back into the ring. Reaching to the skies for the ladder once more, Hardy was slow to ascend. He saw the title between his fingertips, but found himself on the receiving end of the Brogue Kick! The ladder sent Jeff face-first bouncing off the top turnbuckle, as a bloodied Sheamus pounded his chest in anticipation. A second Brogue Kick went missed, and much like at Money in the Bank, Jeff would knock him down with a dropkick! Dumping the ladder on top of him, Jeff ascended to the top rope before flying with the Swanton Bomb - but nobody was home!

As Jeff Hardy laid in agony on the canvas, Sheamus counted his lucky stars for having barely evaded the Swanton Bomb with the ladder over him. Spitting up blood, "the Celtic Warrior" rolled out and caused the announce team to flee. Removing the table covering, Sheamus returned and dragged Hardy out by the foot. With a Powerbomb teased, Sheamus had cruel intentions for the WWE Universal Champion. Transitioning into an attempt at the High Cross through the announce table, Hardy was barely able to land out on his feet! In desperation, a shot from an announce table monitor knocked the Irishman loopy on top of the table's surface. Moments after, Hardy would reveal a third ladder - much taller than the other two! Setting it up at ringside, Jeff looked to finish the job he started over two weeks ago on Friday Night SmackDown. Ripping off the remaining stitches of his shirt, Jeff let out a battlecry before coming off the top of the ladder with a diving legdrop - both he and Sheamus going through the table! The WWE Performance Center was buzzing, as Jeff Hardy and Sheamus laid unconscious in the debris - all the while, the gold continued to hang in the balance.

Jeff Hardy and Sheamus came to and crawled back to their feet. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" used the ring apron for leverage, and Sheamus would take full advantage with the Brogue Kick connecting! With a cocky grin, "the Celtic Warrior" was a crimson mask, soon noticing the steel steps. Taking them apart, Sheamus laid Hardy's foot on the chopping block before acquiring the upper set! Much like he had done to Braun Strowman two months ago, Sheamus prepared to sideline Jeff once again - but the WWE Universal Champion narrowly avoided disaster! Rights and lefts saw Jeff hammer Sheamus into the ring post, with the champ sending his challenger's head bouncing off the steel. With no desire to quit, Jeff would execute the Twist of Fate - Sheamus landing right on top of the lower steps! The champ was battered, bruised and sore - but made extra sure that the Irishman would not be getting back up. Retrieving three more ladders from under the ring, Hardy dumped each of them on top of Sheamus! Burying him, Hardy returned inside and slowly scaled to the top of the ladder. As Sheamus tried to push the ladders' combined weight from him, Hardy retrieved the title!

Winner, and still WWE Universal Champion: Jeff Hardy (23:00)

The Visitor
There was no mountain Jeff Hardy could not climb, and he had just proven that the outcome of Money in the Bank was no fluke! Sheamus remained barely visible under the wreckage stack of ladders at ringside, knowing he was unsuccessful on this night despite all of his best efforts. A broken, battered and bruised man, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" was reunited with the WWE Universal Championship he had been without all day long. "The Celtic Warrior" had proven to be a formidable foe, but in this redemption arc for Jeff Hardy on Friday Night SmackDown - anything was possible, and the sky was the limit! Jeff Hardy posed with the title raised high, tearfully basking in the response from the WWE Universe on-hand in the WWE Performance Center. What had been a war was over now, but the question remained: who was next for "the Charismatic Enigma" to face?

One by one, the lights would go out. As darkness came over the WWE Performance Center, the WWE Universal Champion remained atop the ladder. Suddenly, with a mere eerie red glowing light shining over the WWEPC, Jeff Hardy looked around - before being met by The Fiend creeping up the other side of the ladder. As the high-pitched squeals of "the New Face of Fear's" calling card echoed throughout the building, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" was terrified by the creature he was faced with!

☰☰☰
 

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WWE Extreme Rules 2020 - July 19, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"The One Night A Year WWE Goes Extreme!"
"Down to Hell" by Asking Alexandria
FIVE WEEKS AWAY!
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Matches to be announced.
 

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Coronavirus cases nearing 2 million in US with at least 110,514 deaths
June 8, 2020

Coronavirus cases in the US are nearing 2 million, and at least 110,514 people have died of the virus, according to figures from Johns Hopkins University.

There are at least 1,942,363 cases of coronavirus across all 50 states, the District of Columbia and other US territories, as well as repatriated cases -- the highest figure of any country in the world.

New York has the highest number of cases of any state at 378,097 and the most deaths, at 30,374.

There are now more than 7 million cases worldwide and 400,000 deaths globally.

Coronavirus cases are rising faster than ever -- at a rate of more than 100,000 day -- propelled by a steep increase in case numbers in South and Latin America and the Caribbean.





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JUNE 15, 2020 OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: DEATH OF MR. WRESTLING II

IN YOUR HOUSE
The 6/7 Takeover In Your House show was a mostly good easy watch. The show went two hours 17 minutes, and in this day and age without fans, shorter is almost always going to better. Four of the six matches were good, and one of the two that was nothing special was by design and accomplished its key goal. The main event delivered. There was some nice lighthearted entertainment from the nostalgia of the In Your House name.

While the show was built around the women's title match where Io Shirai took the title by winning over Charlotte Flair, there was also an element of the show dedicated to what happens now with Adam Cole remaining NXT champion. There remains a divide in the creative team as to whether to pull the trigger and crown Velveteen Dream as the guy to end Cole's historic reign, though he also has his detractors. While he would be the first homegrown WWE Performance Center talent to capture the NXT title, many believe the 24-year old lacks the maturity believed to carry the title. It is no secret that Dream has often caught heat in locker rooms for his attitude, and some believe the weird fiasco with the Instagram messages recently to be a red flag for what could follow. Initially, he was penned to not only beat Cole at this show, before the pandemic began, but to do so in a singles program after some big chase. Evidently did that not only not happen, but it appears they are experimenting with alternative options. Finn Balor being the big one.

The show featured two other title changes as Keith Lee regained the NXT North American title, and Kushida won a simply awesome match against El Hijo Del Fantasma in the finals of the NXT Interim Cruiserweight Tournament. With Jordan Devlin stuck in England, despite attempts to bring him to the USA, it appears the plan is now to roll with Kushida as the full-time champ. There is still chance they will revisit this in a Shawn Michaels-Razor Ramon angle when travel is again permitted. Kushida and Fantasma had perhaps the best match of the pandemic so far.

Candice LeRae turned heel, as Karrion Kross went over Tommaso Ciampa in decisive fashion. Some were stunned to see them put Kross over so dominantly, but that's the idea with building a new major heel. While Candice's turn had been planned since Johnny Gargano's turn back in Portland, it is now known within the company that Gargano is awaiting call-up to either Raw or SmackDown. The same can be said for Matt Riddle, who at press time still holds the NXT Tag Team Championship with Timothy Thatcher.

AN ABSOLUTE ARRIVAL Ricky Starks, 30, made his debut for the company at the NXT Takeover show on 6/7. Interrupting Keith Lee's big title win with a promo that received rave reviews on Twitter, it is evident that appears to be the direction for him coming out of the gate. Starks' contract officially came up with Billy Corgan's NWA on 5/18, and was known about by every major company in the business. It was no secret AEW put feelers out for Starks, and both they and WWE recruited him heavily. Due to Covid, Ricky only put pen to paper on the deal the night before the show, on 6/6, and it was said to be a high-dollar number for NXT, which is surprising after the budget cuts of the past two months. An individual close to Paul Levesque claimed that higher ups in the company "saw money" when they saw and heard Starks' performance at In Your House.

UNDER THE KNIFE Jinder Mahal underwent knee surgery this past week in Birmingham. Originally it was scheduled to be minor surgery but the damage ended up being more significant than expected. There was a report regarding a McIntyre vs. Mahal program that had to be scrapped. This probably explains why Heath Slater's on-screen involvement continued while Mahal was nowhere to be seen. While he is working without a deal even still, Slater is figured into creative plans for the foreseeable on a pay-per-appearance exclusive clause. This has similarly been offered to a few of the key releases from April's cuts.

SING THE BLUES Elias has been absent since WrestleMania due to a torn pec. Generally that's close to an eight month return, sometimes a little shorter, with surgery. Some don't have surgery. While we have no confirmation a surgery took place, one would figure his return late this year.

ON PAUSE As WWE expectedly canceled their dates in Japan from 7/2 to 7/4, in similar news also canceled was the 7/24 and 7/25 tapings for NXT U.K. in Glasgow. The WWE has nothing on the schedule at this point for the U.K. brand until October.

EVOLVE IN THE AIR There has been a lot of talk in recent weeks regarding the future of Evolve and WWE. It’s not a secret Evolve had major financial issues and the canceling of WrestleMania week was catastrophic to them. They’ve been quiet, having not said anything. There were reports of them selling their tape library and pretty much everything to WWE but when asked, neither Evolve nor WWE would confirm or deny the story

BELLA FOREVER Total Bellas was renewed for a sixth season in the fall

WON Ratings:
Cole/Dream/Bálor - NXT TakeOver 6/7 - ***½
Lee vs Priest
- NXT TakeOver 6/7 - ****
Kushida vs Fantasma
- NXT TakeOver 6/7 - ****½
Ciampa vs Kross
- NXT TakeOver 6/7 - **¼
Shirai vs Charlotte
- NXT TakeOver 6/7 - ****
Garza vs Mysterio
- RAW 6/8 - ***½
Sheamus vs Cesaro
- SmackDown 6/12 - ***¾

TV Ratings:
SmackDown 6/5 - 2.06 million viewers
RAW 6/8 - 1.73 million viewers
NXT 6/10 - 0.66 million viewers
 
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Monday Night RAW #1412 - June 15, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
ONE DAY REMOVED FROM BACKLASH!
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WWE Main Event #403June 19, 2020

- Cedric Alexander def. Riddick Moss with the Lumbar Check. Riddick Moss approached announcers Tom Phillips and MVP after the match and emotionally expressed that he would be reunited with the WWE 24/7 Championship. (5:27)
- RAW Women's Champion Asuka def. Sarah Logan (with Ruby Riott) with the Asuka Lock. (8:03)


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A video package aired, taking us back to the events of last night's WWE Backlash. The WWE World Championship was on the line between Drew McIntyre and Randy Orton, as weeks of animosity and psychological warfare had brought the two combatants to battle. "The Apex Predator" used his veteran craftmanship to one-up "the Scottish Terminator" at every turn, but through sheer perseverance, the Scotsman would take "the Viper" to 'Claymore Country' to come out on top. Yet, just when his battle was won, out walked the Money in the Bank briefcase holder Bobby Lashley. "The All Mighty" made no bones about the fact that he was coming for his title - but it remained a question of where and when his challenge may come about.

From 'WWE Backstage' to Monday Nights
The opening video package aired, cutting to the WWE Performance Center for Monday Night RAW. Twenty-four hours after WWE Backlash, Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton greeted us to the fallout of last night's extravaganza. A limited selection of the WWE Universe were present behind the plexiglass walls surrounding the ringside area, when unexpectedly Christian made his arrival! The WWE Hall of Famer and frequent contributor on FS1's 'WWE Backstage' wore smart-casual clothes and pointed his fingers out to his Peeps in the audience. Assuming his position alongside Tom and Byron, Christian claimed that 'the Peep Show' had returned to Monday nights - he was proud to be named the newest analyst on Monday Night RAW's broadcast team!

︾︾︾

Shooting His Shot
The ring was set up for 'the Kevin Owens Show', as ring announcer Mike Rome presented the host of the show Kevin Owens to the WWE Performance Center. Receiving a positive ovation from the people in attendance, a bandaged KO came walking out in his T-shirt, a necktie and a blazer! With a hobble after his intense Falls Count Anywhere match last night at WWE Backlash, Owens saluted the WWE Universe, taking a seat. Rejoicing in the comfort of his seat, he admitted to feeling nothing but agony after the fight with Samoa Joe last night. Kevin spoke about all of the things that "the Coquina Destroyer" had done. He'd cost him WrestleMania against Seth Rollins, sidelined him with injuries, but above all else...he had hogged opportunities from him. It was one thing to bring his family into it, when he was the one responsible for taking money straight out of his pocket, and therefore taking food from his family's table. But after all was said and done last night...Kevin Owens was the better man!

While 'Fight Owens Fight' was far more than a catchphrase, Kevin Owens claimed he was glad to move on from Samoa Joe, and to step into his agenda for tonight - hosting 'the Kevin Owens Show' with a rousing special guest! The host outlined what his guest did last night at Backlash, in surviving the onslaught of Randy Orton - introducing the WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre! "The Scottish Terminator" emerged in a dress shirt and suit pants, styling and profiling with the title in hand. Climbing into the ring, Drew shook hands with Kevin, who feigned hardly being able to get to his feet. They bantered back and forth about Drew dressing for the occasion, because 'the KO Show' was the hottest thing to hit Monday nights in quite some time. McIntyre joked that since he made it out of Backlash with the WWE World Championship, he felt like he had no other choice! Drew knew he had a long way to go until his words could be said in the same sentence as Ric Flair or The Rock.

He wanted the WWE Universe to know one day he would reach that pinnacle, planning to go down in history as one of the all-time greats. Kevin Owens joked, adding his name to that list of men, before asking all about his game of human chess with Randy Orton. He acted friendly, joking he'd barely been in the ring with "the Viper", when Drew compared it to competing with a genius. He noted that while Randy could be downright diabolical, he could also be incredibly cunning. He was no slouch and knew every aspect of the game...but all it took was three, two, one - and with that, "the Apex Predator" was sent straight down to 'Claymore Country!' Drew congratulated KO on his own victory against Samoa Joe, to which the host thanked him. Kev brought up Bobby Lashley coming down to the ring and asked Drew for his honest opinion of the Money in the Bank holder. Drew asked KO how candid he could be, before telling him Bobby was a tease.

The WWE World Champion displayed the title on his lap and told Kevin Owens that being the champ meant he was on top of the mountain, and with that came immense responsibility. In his time as champion, he had fought off allcomers already - from Big Show to Edge to Randy Orton. While "the All Mighty" could come get his chance whenever he wanted, all it took was for him or someone else to come crawling out of the woodwork to challenge him for a shot. Drew would be happy to give it! Owens found that interesting, bringing up the list of opponents "the Scottish Terminator" had beaten. He asked Drew if he had it his way, who he would put the title on the line against next...but McIntyre looked eyes with the host! Drew told Kevin if he knew any better, when he invited him onto 'the Kevin Owens Show', he had an ulterior motive! McIntyre asked Kev what was stopping him from stepping up to the plate, bringing no comment from "the Prize Fighter!"

Drew McIntyre quizzed the WWE Universe on who wanted to see him defend the WWE World Championship against Kevin Owens tonight, when the O.C. broke the tension! Disgraced after being lambasted by the Brothers of Destruction last week, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson came storming out to the rampway. Anderson was hot, a microphone in hand, as he told Drew McIntyre and Kevin Owens they had heard and seen enough! All of this salivating over gold was sickening. Gallows agreed, commenting on how McIntyre and Owens were taking all of the credit for the blood, sweat and tears they spilled last night. As KA described the beating he and "the Big LG" received from the Undertaker and Kane, McIntyre and Owens had fun at their expense, asking if they were humiliated. Foolishly, they agreed! Gallows piped in to raise a new picket-sign high - reading "#Justice4TheOC!" Anderson reeled off their worldwide list of achievements, when KO questioned if this was going somewhere.

While Kevin Owens was sore and hurting from the Falls Count Anywhere match against Samoa Joe, the host of 'the Kevin Owens Show' told the O.C. he was agitated they would come out uninvited and ruin Drew McIntyre's valuable talk-time! KO quizzed the WWE Universe how much they wanted to see he and the WWE World Champion shoot the breeze, to a positive response. Luke Gallows bragged they were the ones deserving of talktime, glory and the gold - but KO responded that nobody wanted to see the two baldies talk! Bandaged and bruised and all, Owens challenged the O.C. to come and change his mind - even offering them a spot on 'the KO Show' if they could beat him down right here and now. Gallows and Anderson huddled momentarily, before coming to the ring - with McIntyre in sight too! Owens and McIntyre stood side by side, but just when they were about to enter, the O.C. got cold feet. Electing to fight later tonight, "the Good Brothers" planned to change the perception after last night - for good.

  • Tonight - WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre and Kevin Owens vs The O.C.
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Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and their new broadcast colleague Christian recapped what just happened with the tag team challenge made for tonight, before going back to last night at WWE Backlash. As stills showed of Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe's Falls Count Anywhere match, the broadcast team revealed that Samoa Joe had suffered a fractured clavicle and would miss six-to-eight weeks of action. Shifting gears to tonight on Monday Night RAW, Seth Rollins and the Church were preparing the apparent "Funeral" of Aleister Black!

  • The Church hosts 'the Funeral of Aleister Black'
  • WWE United States Champion Andrade and Los Lotharios vs Los Mysterios and TBA
  • Bowling - The Street Profits (2) vs The Viking Raiders (1)
  • Shayna Baszler vs Liv Morgan

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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.

Crossing the Snake
Earlier today Randy Orton arrived at the WWE Performance Center. "The Apex Predator" was in a foul mood when he passed Ricochet and Cedric Alexander. Turning back to confront the two, he was paranoid following the events of Backlash. "The Future of Flight" and "Lumbar Legacy" denied saying anything, though he persisted they had something to say about last night! "The Viper" ranted about how Drew McIntyre was lucky to make it out as WWE World Champion. In a rematch, he would not be so lucky. Cedric worked to diffuse the situation - until Ricochet butted in. Refusing to be shoved around, he joked about Randy choking at 'the Big One' last night, causing Orton to seethe! Ignoring his threats, Ricochet said Randy could do what he'd done to other WWE Superstars, but Ricochet dared him to try and catch him. Challenging him to a match tonight, Randy warned him he didn't want to do this. Determined, Ricochet told him he did. He was out to turn some heads tonight.

  • Tonight - Randy Orton vs Ricochet
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1) Bianca Belair def. Ruby Riott (with Sarah Logan) (6:20)
- The Riott Squad voiced their opinions in an insert video during their entrance, as they congratulated Bianca Belair on a job well done overcoming Nia Jax. Despite "the EST" using her incredible power to hoist the humongous "Irresistible Force" off her feet however, Ruby Riott and Sarah Logan remained unimpressed. The two planned to beat some respect into the new girl on the block.
- "The EST" scored her biggest win since joining the RAW Brand last week, when she was able to come out on top against Nia Jax in the rubber match. Bianca Belair had the WWE Universe on her side, but tonight faced a very different opponent in one-half of the Riott Squad. Sarah Logan lurked ringside allowing the hot-headed punk rocker to strike, though the unquestionable power of Belair saw a biel toss send Riott across the ring! Logan again teased involving herself, which in turn enabled Riott to drop her with a flatliner. Ruby would send Bianca to the floor for an attempted attack from Sarah, but a forearm smash rocked her! A dive under the middle rope saw Ruby intervene, and a super kick saw her achieve a near fall. Ruby missed We Riot! from the top rope, and a comeback saw Belair catch her with the Alley Oop! Bianca warded off another distraction from Logan, and a hair whip would knock Riott silly - setting her up for the K.O.D for the three count.

"The EST" continued her hot streak after action against a game Ruby Riott. The Riott Squad's number advantage backfired, as Bianca Belair overcame her and Sarah Logan's antics. Strutting about the ring with her hand raised by the official, the newest arrival to Monday Night RAW was quickly becoming a household name.

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Erase the Rat
Charly Caruso
was standing by backstage with La Invasíon, where she wished to speak to Los Lotharios about their loss last night to the father-son duo of Rey and Dominik Mysterio. Zelina Vega told Charly she wouldn't get to hear from them, because she was in the presence of "El Capo". The WWE United States Champion stood in pristine condition, assuring Zelina that Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo worked valiantly to keep the rat out of the business where he belonged. Unfortunately, that rat was proving to be a big problem. "El Idolo" talked about Rey and Dom getting lucky, and how proud the old man had to be of his son in his in-ring debut...unfortunately for "the Legendary Luchador", it would not last for long. Andrade declared that tonight, he and Los Lotharios would get even - and it didn't matter who Los Mysterios had to join them. La Invasíon departed the scene, when Angel returned, making eyes at the broadcast journalist. She would respond with a choice look of her own.

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Following discussion from Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian, a video package aired recapping the horrific incident which befell Aleister Black. One night removed from Money in the Bank, "the Ominous Man from Amsterdam" once again refused to join Seth Rollins' Church despite his insistence. As "the Monday Night Messiah" wished to supposedly apologize to the WWE Universe, his Disciples would hit the ring and begin a beatdown of Black. With Seth at the helm, he at first thought better of the Stomp for Black - before heinously sending him eye-first into the corner of the steel steps. Supposedly blinding him beyond repair, tonight the WWE Performance Center would wait, as the Church had vowed to host a funeral in "the Anti-Hero's" name.

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2) Los Mysterios and Kane def. WWE United States Champion Andrade and Los Lotharios (with Zelina Vega) (10:27) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- As though last night's stunning reunion of the Brothers of Destruction wasn't enough, the father-son tag team who stole the show with an impeccable performance against Los Lotharios of La Invasíon had chosen their tag team partner to be none other than "the Big Red Monster" Kane. The WWE Legend's presence took Andrade and his men by surprise, as a big boot rocked Angel Garza before a sidewalk slam struck Humberto Carrillo. Rey and Dominik then took to the skies with a criss-cross diving crossbody and dive through the ropes to Los Lotharios - all as Andrade watched in astonishment! Zelina Vega tried to refocus the frustrated WWE United States Champion, who met eyes with "the Legendary Luchador" and his son.
- La Invasíon had begun to gang up on Rey Mysterio. Humberto Carrillo talked trash to Dominik, who tried entering and was restrained by the official. Andrade dragged Rey back to their corner for a further beating, as Angel Garza held a cobra clutch. Mysterio worked his way up and caught Garza by surprise, as a hurricanrana sent him into the ropes, just for "El Amante" to come rebounding with a springboard stunner! Los Lotharios impacted Rey with a double-team handspring Japanese armdrag, but as the WWE United States Champion toyed with him, Rey escaped with a snapmare into a roundhouse kick! Dominik tagged in and ran hot with a springboard crossbody to Humberto. With a springboard armdrag, suddenly "El Capo" struck him from behind! Andrade kicked Dom around, when Kane entered the fray bringing him to run! Humberto tried to ambush him, but "the Big Red Monster" delivered the Chokeslam! "La Estrella" received a springboard frog splash from Dom for his first win on Monday Night RAW!

La Invasíon were left livid at ringside, upon seeing Humberto Carrillo go decimated by the returning "Big Red Machine" Kane, as well as Dominik Mysterio. His father Rey Mysterio was quick to congratulate his son with a big hug, as Andrade snarled with a grotesque look of disapproval from the rampway, with Zelina Vega. Angel Garza clutched his shoulder, as Kane and Los Mysterios stood tall - with Kane raising his hands high before throwing them down with vigor.

︾︾︾

The WWE 24/7 Champion Shelton Benjamin swaggered the halls backstage, loving life after believing he had re-earned the nickname as "the Gold Standard". Shelton's demeanor soon changed, however, once he spotted ahead Riddick Moss. In a dirt-ridden and ripped Hawaiian shirt, Moss's beard and long brown hair appeared unkempt, as Benjamin covered his nose in the foul stench surrounding him. A dejected Moss approached Shelton and practically begged for him to help. He wasn't about to ask for much, but what he was about to ask for was all he wanted to ask. Benjamin kept distance with a joke, when Riddick confessed how broken and empty he had been since losing the title he now held. Moss wished for a rematch, and assured Shelton all he wanted to ask was a favor. As Shelton mocked the aroma of Moss resembling a Wendy's drive-thru, he could not help but take pity on him. Benjamin tried to decline the challenge, which only incensed Riddick - who quickly had Shelton running down the hall!

  • Tonight - WE 24/7 Championship - Shelton Benjamin (c) vs Riddick Moss

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Following discussion from Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian, a video package aired recapping the RAW Women's Championship encounter between Asuka and Shayna Baszler, from Backlash. "The Queen of Spades" had long contended for such a crowning achievement, having snapped arms along her way to a meeting with "the Empress of Tomorrow". In a complex technical battle, it would be the Japanese sensation who came out on top as Asuka proved she was destined to be the champ.

Liv Morgan warmed up in the dressing room when approached by her mentor Natalya. Poised to overcome Shayna Baszler tonight, Liv ran on the spot as Nattie asked her if she was ready. Liv claimed she was, that this was everything they had trained for. Nattie agreed, but maintained how dangerous "the Queen of Spades" was - and twenty-four hours after losing out on the RAW Women's Championship against Asuka at Backlash, she was going to be in a vicious mood. Thankfully for her, the Canadian was going to be in her corner in the event Shayna tried to add Liv to her hit list. Liv told Nattie that she felt good, fit and ready for the challenge, claiming that thanks to her this was the best she had ever been. With that said, she wanted to prove that on her own - so long as that was okay with her. Hiding her disappointment, Nattie accepted, before wishing her luck. Left to prepare, Morgan was in the zone.

︾︾︾

3) Randy Orton def. Ricochet (with Cedric Alexander) (10:33) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- "The Apex Predator" suffered a huge loss last night at Backlash against Drew McIntyre for the WWE World Championship, but his ever-dominant presence went challenged earlier today by Ricochet. Randy Orton planned to bounce back but would have a tough time as "the One and Only" shocked Orton with a series of armdrags and fast paced pinfall attempts. Orton missed a back elbow to cut his opponent's momentum short, but Ricochet would handspring into a headscissors sending the veteran to the floor! Even Cedric Alexander was impressed, when Ricochet teased a tope just for Orton to wisely evade it. Following him to the floor, Randy gained control with a poke to the eye before delivering a pounding against the barricade. Sending him spine-first, Orton sent Ricochet in just to have "the Future of Flight" respond with a leaping enzuigiri! It took "the Viper" from the apron, and finally a handspring corkscrew plancha saw Ricochet wipe Orton out!
- Ricochet continued to give Randy Orton all he had, but would miss a top rope attack. Rolling to his feet, "the Future of Flight" followed up, but was cutoff with the scoop powerslam! "The Viper" found his equalizer, and glared at Cedric Alexander as he began to stomp away at his partner. In the corner Orton threw wild punches, but Ricochet bit back with kicks. A top rope hurricanrana garnered a near fall, when followed by the standing shooting star press. Orton rolled out to safety, but this time Ricochet received an exploder suplex, bouncing him off of the plexiglass wall! Back inside "the One and Only" was stalked for an RKO, Bobby Lashley arrived on the rampway. Not forgetting last week, the Money in the Bank briefcase holder watched on, flanked by Lana and MVP. The distraction enabled Ricochet to land the Recoil for a close fall, when the underdog headed up top! The Shooting Star Press was attempted - but Orton caught him on the way down with the RKO. With eyes locked with Lashley, Orton secured the win.

It was a tremendous effort by "the Future of Flight", who had shown no quit despite the furious "Apex Predator's" onslaught. Randy Orton continued to meet eyes with Bobby Lashley, who smirked and folded his arms. With the Money in the Bank briefcase gripped tightly in the hands of his wife Lana, MVP whispered to "the All Mighty", who clearly had not forgotten the RKO received by his so-called tag team partner last week. But as "the Viper" came to his feet, he took his eyes off the ball - and Cedric Alexander came firing from behind! "Lumbar Legacy" was shooting his shot, when a handspring headscissors sent Orton into another Recoil from Ricochet. Cedric and Ricochet soon took to the skies as Orton rolled to the floor - two stereo turning planchas able to take out the veteran! As Ricochet and Cedric celebrated getting one over on Orton, Lashley appeared satisfied, as he and his inner circle departed once more.

︾︾︾

Out of His Mind?
The WWE United States Champion Andrade was depicted in a foul mood in the hallway, kicking over a steel cart of production equipment. Zelina Vega tried to follow "El Capo", who reiterated that he did not need to take that bull from such a big, ugly cabron! Talking about Kane coming back past his prime, he was an old dog waiting to be put down. The leader of La Invasíon remarked that it wasn't 1999 anymore, while his business associate hoped to calm him down. Vega claimed "the Big Red Monster" would pay and there would be other days for him to meet his match. Andrade had other plans however, declaring the night was still young. He was so livid, he dared to call Kane out to a match tonight. Mano e mano, he fancied finding out who the better man was. To further entice him, Andrade even dared to put his gold at stake! Zelina attempted to talk him out of the decision, but his mind was made up.

  • Tonight - WWE United States Championship - Andrade (c) vs Kane

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A Reminder
Charly Caruso
was joined by the WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre, whom she wanted to talk to ahead of the tag team match with the O.C. tonight. Charly alluded to a unique relationship shared with Kevin Owens, prompting "the Scottish Terminator" to talk about the mutual respect he shared with KO. The two of them were men of the people, but they were also thick-skulled and goal-orientated. He knew exactly the type of guy he was - a "Prize Fighter". While Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson were public enemies number one and two, as far as he and Kev were concerned however, Drew knew exactly what his partner tonight wanted: raising the title high. Suddenly, Bobby Lashley entered the frame! After the confrontation last night after his title defence against Randy Orton, "the All Mighty" stood holding the Money in the Bank briefcase. With Lana and MVP present behind him, Lashley smirked in silence. Drew smiled back at him. Lashley, his wife and his advisor soon left, with not another word spoken.

︾︾︾

Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian recapped the series of unique challenges thrown out between the Viking Raiders and the Street Profits. Footage aired as the broadcast team narrated what had started as friendly competition, and how it had resulted in mini-golf, axe-throwing and basketball. This competitive game of 'Anything You Can, We Can Do Better' had led Montez Ford, Angelo Dawkins, Erik and Ivar to tonight - where the foursome competed in a highly-intense game of bowling!

Ten Pins
The Street Profits
were already present at the bowling alley, but bickered about the ugliness of their bowling shoes! Montez Ford wanted to wear his brand new Jordans, but Angelo Dawkins reminded him that in order to overcome their enemies, they needed to think like their enemies. And just like that, wearing shirts, shoes and looking the part meant that they would sure as hell overcome the Viking Raiders. Suddenly the two were taken aback, once the Viking Raiders emerged. In bowling shirts, proper trousers, and yet with facepaint and woolly fur still present, Erik and Ivar arrived armed with bowling balls! The two teams traded barbs about the score between the two, and argued about who would come out on top. Meanwhile, an employee arrived with a tray of drinks and was unsuccessful in securing 'Tez, 'Ang, Erik or Ivar's attention. The scrawny staff member screeched to grab their attention, bringing the four contestants to take their drinks.

"The Modern Day Vikings" grabbed their comically large drinking vessels and declared a toast to their opponents, who raised their red cups high - just for the Street Profits to get their plastics crushed! A montage followed, showing highlights of the two teams' game. Montez Ford was full of confidence and rolled a bal, just to receive a gutterball in return! Erik and Ivar appeared surprisingly in their comfort zone, as they repeatedly rolled spares and strikes; and Ivar would even drop a bowling ball on Angelo Dawkins' foot! Later, the Street Profits were unable to find the Viking Raiders anywhere. It was their turn, and yet the two had declared it was lunch time - and were in the kitchen, where they were thrown out. But just when the two teams thought their game was over, with the Raiders being banned from the premises, the female employee who forced them from the kitchen did not bar them from the alley - considering Ivar "cute".

All was not going according to the Street Profits' plan, as the Viking Raiders were up 100-21. The montage continued, as Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins told an employee they wanted the smoke. The staff complied, turning the lights down low and initiating the smoke machines! Strobe lights packed the bowling alley, but Erik and Ivar's game only grew better. The Profits celebrated a string of strikes - and were able to bring the game to their court. The final turn for "the Modern Day Vikings" was all up to Erik, who was faced with a tough 7-10 split following his first turn. Wiping beads of sweat from his forehead, the entire bowling alley watched in wait, as Erik launched the ball...for the spare! Erik immediately rolled a strike - winning the Raiders the game! The alley broke into uproar, celebrating with the vikings. The Street Profits begrudgingly congratulated them, but they reminded them they were tied 2-2. It was time they ended this charade with one final tiebreaker! The two teams trash-talked, arguments ensuing even still!

  • 'Anything You Can Do, We Can Do Better' - Decathlon - The Viking Raiders (2) vs The Street Profits
︾︾︾

The O.C. were all fired up, heading for the ring. After being humiliated by the Brothers of Destruction last night, they picked a fight with WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre and Kevin Owens - who they would meet up next!

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The Gargantuan
A vignette aired, depicting an empty, dark and gloomy boxing gym. Inside, a colossal man was depicted pounding at a punching bag, which spun from its' holster. With his hood up, the gigantic arms could be seen on clear display, as he was then shown warming up in the gym. Pushing his limits on the treadmill, the huge man was finally seen stepping through the ropes. There, four aspiring wrestlers in training all eyed up the arrival of the giant - to get their heads crushed by the fearsome man. As a claw led to a face-clutching chokeslam on one of the trainees, the rest scrambled in terror. That's when the man lowered his hood - revealing "the Nigerian Gargantuan" Omos - coming soon to WWE.

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4) WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre and Kevin Owens def. The O.C. (9:14) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The O.C's efforts to go on strike during Backlash was met by the unexpected return of the Brothers of Destruction, but in humiliation Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows returned tonight to target the WWE World Champion and the host of 'the Kevin Owens Show'. Drew McIntyre and Kevin Owens appeared to share respect as they began with a four-man free-for-all - quickly clearing the ring of "the Good Brothers". But they weren't finished there, as Owens would take out both men with a Cannonball senton, and the WWE World Champion would go tumbling after with a tope con hilo! Inside, McIntyre delivered a Buckle Bomb to Anderson when Owens tagged in with a codebreaker, though Gallows would intercept it. "The Big LG" struck with a thrust kick to KO, when "the Scottish Terminator" returned with the Glasgow Kiss! Anderson and Gallows were sent to the floor, with Gallows furious!
- Kevin Owens tried to fight his way from the O.C.'s corner, but as Owens cut an inbound Karl Anderson off with a clothesline, Luke Gallows struck from behind with a high kick to the back of the head! Anderson struck with a spinebuster, as now "the Good Brothers" worked to keep KO from Drew McIntyre. The WWE World Champion was mocked by Gallows and Anderson, which afforded "the Prize Fighter" time to strike with a super kick for Gallows! On the rebound, the Canadian caught Anderson with the Argentine backbreaker - when the tag was made to the champ. "The Scottish Terminator" ran wild on the O.C. with clotheslines and Beats of the Bodhran for Gallows on the ropes! A two-handed choke suplex to Anderson saw Drew kip up, when the inverted Alabama Slam dropped Anderson hard. Gallows intruded as the Boot of Doom connected - but KO would drop him with a Stunner! Anderson would miss the Rocket Kick, allowing McIntyre to secure victory with the Claymore Kick!

The WWE World Champion prospered with the assist from Kevin Owens, and the two would share the ring with one another after the bell. Luke Gallows helped his "Good Brother" Karl Anderson from the ring, clutching his jaw and cursing Drew McIntyre's name. "The Scottish Terminator" was all smiles, when Kev suddenly snatched the title from the champ's hands! Staring deeply into it, Owens raised it to McIntyre and gestured that he wanted a title shot. Verbally, Drew nodded with a smile - accepting the challenge and granting "the Prize Fighter" the opportunity next week! The two shook hands, with Kev appearing pleased himself - but just when the two thought all was well, KO would level McIntyre with the Stunner for good measure! Owens left the ring with a cheesy grin, while behind him the Scotsman sat up with a smirk of his own, pleased with the motivations of the Canadian.

  • Next week - WWE World Championship - Drew McIntyre (c) vs Kevin Owens
︾︾︾

The Unholy Messiah
Static covered the screen, revealing a eerie vignette from Aleister Black. As dramatic flashes covered the screen of the barbaric beating he received at the hands of Seth Rollins and his Church last month, "the Anti-Hero" commented with one half of his face clouded in darkness. Black recited passages from the Bible, and spoke of the unholy "Messiah" who had martyred his way to an early grave. While the spirit he was was the furthest thing from holy, he was going to bring true renaissance to the Lord's name tonight. Black talked about all of the sins in which this "Messiah" had committed, but they would all go avenged tonight. With a black covering over his eye, "the Ominous Man from Amsterdam" uttered "an eye for an eye" will bind them together like the blood of brother. He informed Mr. Rollins that he would meet with him soon.

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It's In the Past
Randy Orton paced back and forth in his dressing room backstage, embarrassed after the ambush from Ricochet and Cedric Alexander. "The Apex Predator" could not have been pleased with the past twenty-four hours, when he froze in his tracks. Into the room walked Bobby Lashley - the very man responsible for nearly costing him the match. Alone, the Money in the Bank briefcase holder told "the Viper" he wanted to clear the air. Knowing exactly what it was like to be upset by "the Future of Flight", "the All Mighty" proposed they team up once again next week. Orton called Lashley crazy! He knew a set-up from a mile away, and after the RKO he gave Bobby, how could he trust him? Lashley chuckled, affirming in all honesty what happened last week was in the past. After all, Randy was in need and needed help getting back on the saddle! Orton was convinced Lashley was trying to get under his skin, but told him much like last week - one wrong move and he was not afraid to lay his ass out with an RKO.

  • Next week - Bobby Lashley and Randy Orton vs Ricochet and Cedric Alexander
︾︾︾

A graphic aired, promoting tonight's edition of RAW Talk, immediately following Monday Night RAW. Hosted by Charly Caruso and Christian, tonight's special guests included the WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre, Los Mysterios and "the Big Red Monster" Kane. It all went down at 11:05 PM, exclusively on the WWE Network.

5) Akira Tozawa def. Shelton Benjamin (c) & Riddick Moss to capture the WWE 24/7 Championship (4:36)
- The desperation of Riddick Moss became apparent in the aftermath of his Money in the Bank loss at the hands of Rob Gronkowski. "So Smooth" was struggling with existentiality, and had practically begged the WWE 24/7 Champion Shelton Benjamin for this opportunity. "The Gold Standard" walked with presence, having refound his mojo since becoming champ. Benjamin was overconfident, but underestimated the hunger of the challenger who struck with a shoulder tackle! Right hands in the corner saw a corner spear follow, and a knockout punch saw Moss claimed a close near fall. The former champ delivered a biel throw, but Benjamin would catch him off-guard with a big boot! Shelton hammered on Moss with ten punches, before delivering a German suplex for a near fall. The Paydirt was attempted, but Moss caught him with the fallaway slam into the corner. Suddenly however, Akira Tozawa hit the ring with a missile dropkick taking out Moss! Covering Shelton in a hurry, Tozawa successfully infiltrated the match to become champion!

Akira Tozawa raced from the ring hurriedly, snatching the WWE 24/7 Championship from the official and raising it high with energy. As Shelton Benjamin remained down, Riddick Moss sat up disturbed in the ring. "So Smooth" could not believe it, as he was forced to watch Tozawa celebrate the title he once had high!

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After coming up slightly short in the RAW Women's Championship battle with Asuka at Backlash last night, Shayna Baszler paced down the hallway of the WWE Performance Center full of pent-up rage. Cranking her neck and gripping the towel around her, "the Queen of Spades" was geared up and prepared to meet Liv Morgan - up next.

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An advertisement aired, promoting this upcoming week on Friday Night SmackDown on FOX. In the fallout of an unanticipated Backlash, the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy planned to discuss the Ladder match with Sheamus, and shed some light on the sudden appearance of The Fiend after the match. Plus, the SmackDown Tag Team Championships would be at stake when John Morrison and The Miz cashed in their rematch clause against the new champs Heavy Machinery; and it would be a Street Fight between the New Day and the Forgotten Sons!

Meeting of the Families
Seth Rollins
stood in a full suit, with his hair tied up and black gloves on his hands. Looking into his palms, "the Monday Night Messiah" would look up and speak with his Church. RAW Tag Team Champions Murphy and Theory, and "the Equalizer" Akam all stood suited and booted for the occasion themselves, as Seth spoke about how tonight was going to define their future for an eternity. It was only fitting that Aleister Black's WWE career received the correct send-off, and they would be the administers who would execute said send-off. The Disciples nodded, when Theory questioned why they were doing this - "the Anti-Hero" was their adversary! Murphy shunned his tag team partner and protege, reminding him his job was to sit under the learning tree of "the Messiah" and nothing more. Seth defended Theory's naivete, claiming it was symbolic for the power they had over the entirety of the RAW Brand. Forgiving him, suddenly the Church crossed paths...with La Invasíon!

The WWE United States Champion Andrade stood with Angel Garza, Humberto Carrillo and Zelina Vega, as the two groups met eyes. "El Capo" wished Seth Rollins well in his funeral for Aleister Black tonight. Conversely, Seth wanted to wish Andrade luck in his WWE United States Championship defense against Kane. With a chuckle, Andrade turned back to look at Los Lotharios. Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo watched the RAW Tag Team Champions Murphy and Theory intently, and the Disciples returned the favor in glaring back at them. Andrade joked that the Church and they would have to meet soon, before he led La Invasíon away. While smiling moments before, "the Monday Night Messiah" turned to a scowl, watching the group leave.

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6) Shayna Baszler def. Liv Morgan (5:25)
- "The Queen of Spades" could not have taken the loss to Asuka well, as she marched to the ring with purpose. With one day removed from Backlash, Shayna Baszler was prepared for competition against Liv Morgan. Wishing to go it alone, Liv would evade the technically profound former MMA Fighter with a series of leg kicks, when Baszler ran her down with a clothesline! With chest kicks in the corner, a soccer kick struck Liv for a near fall, when Baszler applied a double-wristlock. Morgan fought it and got a close upset with a Matrix-style evasion and a roll-up, when a handspring spinning headscissors sent Baszler to ringside! She would miss a baseball slide, when a knee strike cut Morgan down! Inside, palm strikes grounded Morgan but Liv refused to give up. Firing up in rage, clotheslines followed with an enzuigiri and a facebuster! Liv got a near fall with the Jersey Codebreaker, but Shayna caught her with a roundhouse kick. The Kirifuda Clutch took Liv down, forcing her into submission!

The Big Sister Act
The hard effort by Liv Morgan did not pay off, as Shayna Baszler stood dominantly after the bell. "The Queen of Spades" refused to relinquish the grip of the Kirifuda Clutch, when the referee finally rushed in to break up the hold by force. Morgan was left defenceless, but "the Submission Savant" raced the official ffrom the ring. Dragging the motionless Liv onto her front, she propped her elbow into the air and planted her palm down. Setting up for yet another arm-breaking Elbow Stomp, Baszler was ready - when Natalya came running to the ring! Baszler was ran from the ring, uninterested in fighting the big sister figure in Morgan's life. Nattie called out Shayna to get into the ring and try her luck with her, but as she helped Liv back up to her feet... the Canadian inexplicably ran her down with a hard discus lariat! The WWE Universe were stunned, as Nattie stood tall with a cold grimace on her face. Morgan was down and out, and was left astray by the figure who had spent the past several months mentoring her!

︾︾︾

Kane marched down the hall on his way to an opportunity at the WWE United States Championship. After his return earlier tonight, "the Big Red Monster" had drawn the ire of Andrade of La Invasíon. The ill-tempered "El Capo" had issued the challenge himself, and now the WWE Legend had the opportunity to capture gold he'd never once had - next!

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Having stolen the WWE 24/7 Championship from Shelton Benjamin in the heat of his match with Riddick Moss earlier tonight, Akira Tozawa was full of energy. Caressing the title, Akira spoke broken English and practically confessed his love to the title - when growing wary of a nearby R-Truth incognito! "The Truth" was undercover as a custodian, but the rousing suspicions of the new champ brought him to cower from the scene. Hoping to flee, R-Truth dropped his mop and raced after him! The hunt for the WWE 24/7 Championship was just heating up!

︾︾︾

7) Andrade (with Zelina Vega) (c) def. Kane to retain the WWE United States Championship (5:16)
- After a six-man tag team match saw Kane and Los Mysterios overcome La Invasíon, a furious Andrade issued the challenge, ill-advised by Zelina Vega. Kane immediately took him down with a series of throat thrusts, when a sidewalk slam impacted "El Capo". A corner clothesline swept the champ from the ring, bringing the leader of La Invasíon to be spoken strategy by his business advisor. Back inside, Kane's onslaught saw Andrade kick the middle rope into a low blow. A handspring Pelé kick stunned Kane, and the champ would quickly target the foot. Kane fired back following a running powerslam, when Andrade caught him with a rope-hung cross-armbreaker! Kane broke it and delivered the Chokeslam from it - when out came Los Lotharios for the distraction. Kane swatted Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo away, when Los Mysterios arrived to even the odds! With the referee distracted, Andrade low blowed Kane before landing the Hammerlock DDT to retain the title.

Andrade slipped out of the ring into the waiting arms of Zelina Vega, Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo, as the WWE United States Champion was reunited with his title. As La Invasíon retreated to the rampway, Los Mysterios took to the ring. Standing side-by-side with Kane, Rey and Dominik Mysterio continued to stare a hole through "El Capo" and Los Lotharios.

︾︾︾

Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian discussed the magnitude of next week's edition of Monday Night RAW - boasting a huge main event when Drew McIntyre put the WWE World Championship on the line against Kevin Owens! The 'Anything You Can Do, We Can Do Better' string of challengers would come to ahead with a tiebreaking decathlon between the Street Profits and the Viking Raiders; and after her betrayal of Liv Morgan, Natalya would hopefully explain her actions.

  • WWE World Championship - Drew McIntyre (c) vs Kevin Owens
  • 'Anything You Can Do, We Can Do Better' - Decathlon - The Viking Raiders (2) vs The Street Profits (2)
  • Natalya explains her actions
︾︾︾

A trumpeteer was present backstage at the WWE Performance Center. On the backs of four backstage assistants saw a casket being escorted to the arena. Behind the "pallbearers" marched Seth Rollins and the rest of the Church. With looks of sorrow and remorse on the faces of the RAW Tag Team Champions Murphy and Theory, as well as the stone-faced grimace on Akam's face, suddenly "the Monday Night Messiah" beamed into a huge grin. Whatever the Church had planned - the so-called 'Funeral of Aleister Black' was up next.

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Not Over Yet
Shayna Baszler
caught up with Charly Caruso after defeating Liv Morgan, wishing to know why the broadcast journalist didn't want to hear from her about her win! "The Queen of Spades" threatened Caruso with arms in position for the Kirifuda Clutch, as "the Submission Savant" questioned what Charly might have to say to the RAW Women's Champion. Baszler accused her of bias, when Asuka appeared. Shayna laughed, releasing Charly. Baszler went face-to-face with "the Empress of Tomorrow", asking how she liked being taken to the limit. In broken English, the surprisingly stern Asuka told Shayna she was not happy with how Backlash went down. She may have won, but it was not a true victory to her. Shayna invited her to take one more opportunity to put her down. Baszler called Asuka's Elbow Stomp weak, but was willing to give Asuka another shot to take her down. Asuka accepted - putting the title at stake and calling her out next week: to a Submission match! Baszler shrugged, telling her it would be her funeral.

  • Next week - RAW Women's Championship - Submission match - Asuka (c) vs Shayna Baszler
︾︾︾

The Funeral and Rebirth of Aleister Black
The WWE Performance Center was set up for 'the Funeral' presented by Seth Rollins and his Church. As a stained glass portrait of "the Monday Night Messiah" and his Disciples appeared on the big screen on the stage, the ring was covered in a black carpet. An easel was set up inside depicting "the late" Aleister Black, while a casket was present inside. Seth Rollins came walking out to organ music playing, accompanied by the Church. Akam watched over "the Messiah" as the RAW Tag Team Champions Murphy and Theory followed the group, all dressed in black suits fitting for such an occasion. Once in the ring, Seth stood beside the easel of "the Anti-Hero" at the stand, where he explained to the limited selection of WWE Universe members that they were all gathered today to pay their respects to the WWE career of Aleister Black. Seth discussed the ups and downs of Black, listing his accolades. He was a true pioneer - like nobody who had ever graced the squared-circle before. He was a former NXT Champion, and...well, that was it!

Seth Rollins appeared unapologetic for the deeds in which led to Aleister Black's untimely demise at the hands of "the Monday Night Messiah", but maintained that "the Anti-Hero" knew exactly what he was getting himself in for. Theory mockingly shed a tear as Murphy laid a hand on his shoulder; all the while Seth explained that without the ability to see with one eye, Black's career was inevitably cut short. Yet while they were gathered here to mourn the departure of Aleister's potential - perhaps this was what he wanted all along! Seth spoke from the heart about how he and the rest of the Church had tried time and time again to reach out and bring Black into their family. They wanted only the best for "the Ominous Man from Amsterdam", but he continued to push and push away. Now, he was gone - but his spirit would live on. Albeit, it would be with one blind eye! Rollins smiled as he led the Church and the WWE Universe into prayer.

The Church bowed their heads, Seth Rollins leading them in prayer. Being thankful for a savior like "the Monday Night Messiah" for not only saving Monday Night RAW - Seth claimed he had saved all of the WWE Superstars! He preached being the one to bestow hope and promise to every prospectful young athlete across the WWE Universe, and urged every man, woman and child to remember the figure who brought them life: Seth freakin' Rollins! As Theory, Murphy and even Akam recited "amen", the lights went out! Suddenly, Aleister Black appeared behind them. With a series of rapidfire kicks to Theory, Murphy charged - but the lights to go out. They returned with Black dropping Murphy with a discus knee strike, when Akam was summoned by Seth. Again the lights went out, and this time Aleister clocked "the Equalizer" with the Black Mass! Alone, Black stood with a covering over his eye - standing across the ring from the very man responsible. "The Ominous Man from Amsterdam" had crashed his own funeral!

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RAW Talk #13: June 15, 2020
- Following the challenge made for next week on Monday Night RAW, the WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre would join the show to field questions about Kevin Owens. "The Scottish Terminator" spoke positively of the prowess his next challenger possessed, and claimed that he had made it openly clear from the start at WrestleMania: that he was open season and waiting for allcomers to chase him down. While he respected KO however, "the Prize Fighter" was in for a wake-up call he would never forget next week. Drew remained charming and spoke with a smile however, concluding that he would get even for the Stunner he received tonight and take the Canadian to 'Claymore Country'.
- Los Mysterios joined RAW Talk raving about the in-ring debut of Dominik Mysterio at Backlash. Rey Mysterio provided an evaluation of his son's performance in his first-ever outing, when Charly Caruso and Christian asked Dom how he felt after his first two matches. The newcomer claimed it was a rush he would never ever forget. He wished the fans were present, but that only drove him to keep going. Dominik said it was a dream to stand before 70,000 screaming fans at WrestleMania, before speaking out about his former friend Humberto Carrillo. Labelling him a turncoat, he was still not over his betrayal. Challenging him to a match next week, his father believed they had to go - work was to be done.
- After two matches tonight against members of La Invasíon, Kane dropped into the show. The Mayor of Knox County, Tennessee was joyous and unmasked however, as he spoke positively about the future of the WWE. While Kane spoke of the tumultuous times, he believed there was still days to be had for "the Big Red Monster", and while Andrade may have got lucky tonight in retaining the WWE United States Championship; he could only run on for long enough. When asked about his half-brother's future, Kane could only speculate and urged the people to watch 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride' this Sunday on the WWE Network.


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WWE Extreme Rules 2020 - July 19, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"The One Night A Year WWE Goes Extreme!"
"Down to Hell" by Asking Alexandria
LESS THAN FIVE WEEKS AWAY!

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Matches to be announced.
 
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NXT #409 - June 17, 2020
Full Sail University - Orlando, Florida
TWO WEEKS FROM NXT GREAT AMERICAN BASH!

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NXT UK #97: Hidden Gems - June 18, 2020

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- NXT United Kingdom Champion WALTER def. Kushida with the Powerbomb. (16:40) [NXT #373 - OCT 9, 2019]
- Toni Storm def. Meiko Satomura with the Storm Zero in a Semi-Final match of the 2018 Mae Young Classic. (13:06) [MAE YOUNG CLASSIC 2018 #8 - OCT 24, 2018]
- Ilja Dragunov def. Alexander Wolfe with Torpedo Moscow in a No-Disqualification match. (14:50) [NXT UK #75 - JAN 2, 2020]

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A video package aired, recapping last week on NXT. In the aftermath of NXT TakeOver: In Your House, NXT Champion Adam Cole would watch as the Velveteen Dream battled Bobby Fish. The presence of Finn Bálor at ringside to ward off "the Panama City Playboy" however, saw Dream lose the match, when later that night a challenge from Roderick Strong saw the match made for himself and "the Prince". Bálor refused to give in to Roddy's signature offense, when much like earlier in the night, "the Purple Rainmaker" caused Cole and Fish to flee with the purple bat in hand. Distracted, Finn would lose the match giving the Undisputed Era a clean sweep. But the shocker would come moments after, when an incensed Velveteen Dream would leave Finn laying amidst boos from the NXT Universe.

"NXT" chants flooded Full Sail University, as a limited selection of NXT Universe faithfuls stood behind the plexiglass at ringside, as Vic Joseph welcomed us to NXT. Standing before the large black-and-gold letters, he hyped kicking things off in the biggest possible way - passing us on to the remote-working Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix.

1) Keith Lee (c) def. Killian Dain to retain the NXT North American Championship (4:25)
- The new, two-time NXT North American Champion Keith Lee encouraged any NXT Superstar wishing to challenge him to come out and fight, and just like that, Killian Dain accepted the challenge. The Irishman threw down his leather jacket and raced to the ring for a colossal fist-fight with "the Limitless One", who was able to impresss with a big dropkick for the challenger! With a biel toss, "the Limitless Legion" basked in glory alongside the champ, when Dain rallied back with the Barn River Boot! Dain dropped Lee with the fireman's carry slam and delivered the senton, but the champ powered out! Keith Lee took down Dain with a hurricanrana off the ropes out of nowhere, when a running crossbody gave Dain a taste of his own medicine. Lee looked for the Spirit Bomb, but Dain landed out and dropped him with a Powerbomb of his own - just for a near fall! Both colossals were going full throttle, when Dain's Vader Bomb saw "the Beast of Belfast" get knees to the ribcage. Lee then scored emphatic victory with the Big Bang Catastrophe.
It was all-go from start to finish, but in the end Keith Lee was able to leave with the NXT North American Championship. "The Limitless One" raised his title high as the referee raised his hand, while Killian Dain rolled out to the floor. Dropping to a knee, "the Beast of Belfast" may have loved to fight - but on this night, Keith Lee would remain the champ.

Graphics aired, as Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix discussed what was coming up tonight on NXT. After not delivering on his end of the bargain last week, "Absolute" Ricky Starks would make his NXT in-ring debut this week against Leon Ruff; the new NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai would be in action; plus, NXT Tag Team Champions Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher would appear live on 'Ever-Rise Live'. But coming up next, we would hear an explanation from the Velveteen Dream for his attack on Finn Bálor!

  • The Velveteen Dream explains his decision to attack Finn Bálor
  • Dexter Lumis and Bronson Reed vs Brendan Vink and Shane Thorne
  • Rhea Ripley vs Chelsea Green
  • Ricky Starks vs Leon Ruff
  • NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai in action
  • 'Ever-Rise Live' with special guests NXT Tag Team Champions Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher

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An advertisement aired, bringing us 'NXT's Greatest Hits of the Summer' - presented by Brownie and Yellow Cake Batter Shakes, available for a limited time at Sonic. On August 10, 2019 at NXT TakeOver: Toronto, Adam Cole and Johnny Gargano met one last time to complete their trilogy of instant classics. In two-out-of-three falls, "the Panama City Playboy" would overcome "Johnny Wrestling" two falls-to-one, in a series that saw the combatants go to war in a wrestling match, a Street Fight and a Barbwire Steel Cage match.

Goldie in Mind
A video package aired, taking us back to NXT TakeOver: In Your House, where Karrion Kross destroyed "the Blackheart" to the shock of the NXT Universe. Black and white consumed the screen, as Scarlett marched towards it. Candles surrounded images of doomsday projected on the screen. She spoke of "the Blackheart" going rendered broken, thanks to the inconquerable fury of "the Herald of Doomsday". As Karrion Kross's body was profiled, with tattoos documented through. He would stand with arms folded as Scarlett circled him. Declaring his time as arising, the honeymoon period for NXT was over. "Black and Gold" had been cured of its' Ciampa problem, but soon would come the next phase of their plan. Kross clenched his fingers together and stepped forward, as color returned. He considered himself "the Demolition Man" that NXT had been missing since the beginning, but now was the time for a reboot. Implying there was somebody with the gold he desired, he vowed the prophecy spoke that he would soon hold "Goldie" in his hands.

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Popularity Contest
The NXT Universe issued a mixed response, as Velveteen Dream strutted out with style. In a white lace shirt and velvet tights, "the Purple Rainmaker" made a crucial decision last week. Adorning the triad-sunglasses, Dream stretched his arms with the microphone in hand. Listening to the boos of the NXT fans, Dream scoffed at the simple nature of the people, talking about the very idea that he "sold out" last week when he took his purple bat and struck Finn Bálor. The truth was, he was one step ahead of the curb. He reminded the NXT Universe of how it was not long ago when they detested "the Prince" for gatecrashing NXT uninvited, and as far as he was concerned: Finn was gatecrashing on his destiny! Dream repeated how longingly he was destined to become NXT Champion, believing it to be the reason he was in this ring. "The Purple Rainmaker" had grown weary of playing starving artist, because now he was compelled to go down in the history books as NXT Champion, because he was "the Protagonist" of "the Black and Gold Brand".

Abruptly, Finn Bálor interrupted, but "the Prince" was not one for the idea of smoke and mirrors tonight against the Dream! Finn power-walked down the aisleway and stepped into the ring, immediately bringing Dream to step out to the apron and wield his purple bat in his direction! Bálor stole the microphone and told him the only thing he was "the Protagonist" of was getting his butt whooped tonight by Finn Bálor! The NXT Universe cheered as Finn got down to brass tax about how each of them came equally as close to the NXT Championship at NXT TakeOver: In Your House. They each could argue how things could have been had it been one-on-one - but it wasn't! "The Prince" challenged Velveteen Dream to a match, wanting it to be made for tonight! While "the Protagonist" remained reserved however, he would calmly respond to Finn Bálor declaring that he would think about it. The Undisputed Era soon arrived, with the egotistical NXT Champion leading the way.

Adam Cole refuted the idea that either Finn Bálor or Velveteen Dream were still in the running for a shot at "the Panama City Playboy". Bragging about the victory he achieved in the Triple Threat match at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, Adam told the two that as far as he was concerned - they were destined for the back of the line! Considering both men losers, Adam believed they had proven that both were not on the champ's level. Dream told Cole he was a scalded dog without an owner, but affirmed that Adam's entire act was tired. While he had been champion for over one calendar year, the river was running dry, and he would soon be without the NXT Championship. The NXT Universe cheered, and Finn surprisingly agreed with him. Adam barely clung to that title's grasp as he left In Your House - and when he got his opportunity to challenge again, it was "the Prince's" goal to ensure that Adam Cole was done! Roderick Strong soon snatched the microphone and professed how pointless this whole argument was.

Furious at how Finn Bálor and Velveteen Dream simply could not take no for an answer, Roderick Strong spoke out about how dominant and untouchable his best friend Adam Cole had been. Since June 1, 2019, "the Panama City Playboy" had reigned in a league of his own against allcomers - and after NXT TakeOver: In Your House, there would be no rematch for either of them! The NXT Champion smiled, as Bobby Fish chimed in to agree, again calling both men pathetic losers. The Undisputed Era were full of confidence, as Cole joked he planned to go another trip around the sun with his title - when William Regal appeared via Skype on the big screen! The NXT General Manager sat in his home office, his patience growing thin with this situation. He had observed this business unfold for weeks, but after the blatant interference from the UE at In Your House; perhaps a Triple Threat match was the wrong way to go about this!

The NXT General Manager was understanding of Finn Bálor having fans, and the Velveteen Dream having fans too - but at the end of the day, in his mind they were both deserving shots at the NXT Championship. Regal revealed that in two weeks, NXT would pay respects to a time-honored tradition with the return of the Great American Bash over two nights. On Wednesday, July 8, the NXT Universe would be in charge to decide who Adam Cole's challenger would be! A fan vote would see the number one contender named - but as for tonight, "the Prince" and the Dream would do battle to hopefully put the ugliness of their dispute behind them once and for all! William Regal had laid down the law, but when "the Panama City Playboy", Roderick Strong and Bobby Fish turned around to argue with the GM on the screen, Regal declared that his decision was final! Meanwhile, Finn Bálor surprised "the Purple Rainmaker" with a shotgun dropkick sending him from the ring. Finn dared Dream to throw down - everything unfolding tonight on NXT!

  • Tonight - Finn Bálor vs Velveteen Dream
  • NXT Great American Bash - Night 2 - NXT Championship - Adam Cole (c) vs Finn Bálor or Velveteen Dream

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A replay aired, recapping the events from before the commercial break. NXT General Manager William Regal had decreed a fan vote would determine Adam Cole's next challenger come Great American Bash. A graphic soon aired, as Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix revealed that the fan vote would go live on WWE.com as soon as NXT went off the air tonight at 11 PM Eastern - and it would remain up until Wednesday, July 1 at 10 PM Eastern. Who would be "the Panama City Playboy's" next challenger - Finn Bálor or Velveteen Dream? Fate was in the hands of the NXT Universe.

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All Hail King Kota
Dakota Kai
stood with Raquel González watching over her shoulder, as McKenzie Mitchell welcomed "King Kota" back after a two-week break. Kai was sarcastic as ever toward the broadcast journalist, who wanted to get an update on her condition following the Fight to a Finish with Tegan Nox two weeks ago. Dakota claimed she was not yet cleared to compete, but time was of the essence, and it spelled abysmal news for the rest of the girls in her NXT Women's Division! Refusing to air any comments about "the Welsh Valley Wonder", Kai made a veiled threat to the new NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai that once she was back at 100%, she would be coming for her gold. "Big Mami Cool" glared daggers at the camera, as she followed Kai away. All Hail!

2) Brendan Vink and Shane Thorne def. Dexter Lumis and Bronson Reed (8:23) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The bizarre combination of Dexter Lumis and Bronson Reed was a sure sight to be behold, as they prepared to enter the fray with Brendan Vink and Shane Thorne. The Australians worked to get the jump on their larger opponents, but Dexter and Bronson would turn the tables in a hurry! Lumis showed shocking agility with a kipup legdrop, when Bronson sandwiched both of his former friends with a corner splash. "The Shadow Walker" and "the Battleship" soon met eye-to-eye from across the ring, bringing Lumis to raise a thumb in the direction of Reed. That's when Vink and Thorne dragged both men out, as Vink stunned Lumis with a big boot, and Thorne capitalized with a running axe handle. Sending Bronson hurdling over the steel steps, the two then battled the ominous Dexter two-on-one - who sounded off with throat thrusts, until an assisted back suplex across the apron rocked him!
- For the first time in the mysterious career of Dexter Lumis, he was worked over by Brendan Vink and Shane Thorne. The two Aussies worked to keep "the Shadow Walker" down, but despite a ripcord knee strike from Thorne and an overhead belly-to-belly suplex, he would keep getting back up! Absorbing each blow, Dex finally caught Thorne by the throat until Vink came to his aid. Lumis landed out of a double suplex with a double back suplex to both opponents - when eye contact was made, and in came Bronson Reed! "The Battleship" rocked both with body blocks, before focusing his attention on Thorne. A military press slam and senton saw Vink get involved - but Bronson would slam him through his own partner! As Dexter dragged Brendan to the floor, Reed struck Thorne with a Powerbomb before heading to the top rope. Looking for the Tsunami, Vink struck suddenly with an unspotted shot from a spare turnbuckle rod! With a thunderous splat went "Aus-Zilla", affording Thorne to capitalize with the three count made.

Dexter Lumis nailed Brendan Vink with a huge throat thrust on the floor, before crawling in fast to cause Shane Thorne to flee! As the Australians rejoiced on the aisleway, Thorne posed with the turnbuckle rod in hand - the differencemaker all along. Bronson Reed favored his leg in agony, while "the Shadow Walker" gave the two a thousand-yard stare. If they weren't wanted men by the mysteriously eerie Dexter before, they absolutely were now!

✕✕✕

The Robert Stone Brand were backstage at the Full Sail Arena, as Chelsea Green continued to warm up for her match momentarily against Rhea Ripley. Robert Stone entered the room to speak about the aburdities from last week, and how what happened to them was unjust and unfair! Aliyah was so terrified that she didn't even want to come to the building today - meanwhile, that sociopath Xia Li was creeping in the shadows waiting to strike. Chelsea tried to refocus Robert, talking about how she and Rhea Ripley had done this same song and dance before, and she was the one who was "Victorious". Chelsea rubbed her image consultant's shoulder, assuring "the Hipster" that Chels was going to run through the former NXT Women's Champion all over again.

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

Just the Way It Is
Following the groundbreaking announcement by NXT General Manager William Regal tonight regarding NXT Great American Bash in two weeks, the Undisputed Era were in disarray in their dressing room. Roderick Strong and Bobby Fish called the entire system out to get them - and they were so over it! Roddy wondered what Kyle O'Reilly could do for the UE over in Hollywood, because this would not stand in their NXT. Adam Cole stormed through on the phone to the NXT GM, who he argued with. "The Panama City Playboy" professed it unfair that he would only have seven days to prepare for whomever the moronic NXT Universe voted to face him - besides, he had already beaten Finn Bálor and the Velveteen Dream! Things clearly weren't going Cole's way, as he abruptly hung up the phone and cursed Regal - ever the thorn in the side of the NXT Champion.

✕✕✕

Go Hard or Go Home
The NXT Universe buzzed with the anticipated arrival of "Absolute" Ricky Starks. As a voiceover introduced the man himself, the hottest acquisition to land on "the Black and Gold Brand" came swaggering out to the aisleway in a bright pink pair of trunks. Posing and showboating to the booing fans, Starks made another entrance of Superstars before gracing the microphone. Making a hammock out of the top rope in the corner, Ricky oozed charisma as he once again apologized for not feeling up to making his NXT debut last week. The fact of the matter was he wanted to make his in-ring debut on NXT, but it had to be absolutely perfect! The water had to be right, the earth had to be in the correct alignment, and "Sweet Daddy" Starks' teeth had to be shining that special way when he first wowed the entire roster with his presence. Leading the NXT Universe in cheers as he questioned who wanted to see him compete - he would demand his challenger present himself!

Leon Ruff made his arrival, playing to the crowd as he climbed into the ring, all the while Ricky Starks laughed over the microphone! "Absolute" questioned if that was all the matchmakers behind NXT had for him - the scrawny bag of bones standing across from him! He questioned why, but more jokes directed at Ruff's expense only fired him up more! Leon rallied the NXT Universe behind him, telling Starks to go hard or go home. Ricky told Leon he was either a genius or an imbecile, accepting his challenge. "Sweet Daddy" Starks ordered him back to his corner - but with Ruff's back turned, Ricky launched an aggressive ambush! The referee tried jumping in to break it up, but Starks would plant him with the spear. Powering him up with ease, Starks planted him with a sit-out dominator known as "Absolution". Yet Ricky wasn't finished yet, mounting him with further heavy fists - when finally, out charged Isaiah Scott for the save! Starks rolled out to the floor, leaving "Swerve" to check on the senseless Ruff.

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For the first time since overcoming Charlotte Flair at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, Io Shirai appeared backstage at Full Sail University. Brandishing the NXT Women's Championship she captured, "the Genius of the Sky" was all smiles as she headed for the ring - set for singles competition, up next.

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An advertisement aired, promoting the fourth episode of the Limited Series Event - 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride'. "Chapter 5: Revelations" would premiere this Sunday - exclusively on the WWE Network.

The Second Journey to the Mountaintop
Finn Bálor was in the interview area with McKenzie Mitchell, who wanted to understand "the Prince's" motivation headed into tonight with the Velveteen Dream. Finn remarked that he thought he had made it abundantly clear, but he would merrily recite it again. After all, he was here tonight to do one thing and make "the Purple Rainmaker" regret every decision he had since the day he put on a pair of boots. Bálor commented that Dream claimed to be "the Protagonist", but he was still just a boy living in a man's world. Meanwhile Finn had been to the mountaintop of NXT, and taken in the view. While tonight he was going to make Velveteen recognize what "the Prince" was all about, he had a keen eye on Adam Cole and the Undisputed Era. McKenzie asked Finn for some words for the NXT Universe planning to vote, and Bálor promised all of his potential voters watching that if they wanted the NXT Championship to finally change hands, to vote Finn to kick Adam Cole's arse at the Great American Bash.

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3) NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai def. Indi Hartwell (3:08)
- "The Genius of the Sky" showed the NXT Universe exactly how great she could be at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, as Io Shirai conquered over Charlotte Flair. With "the Queen" nowhere to be seen, the newly-crowned NXT Women's Champion tasked WWE Performance Center prospect Indi Hartwell with a big opportunity. Indi was motivated early, but the skilled "Joshi Judas" swiftly tripped Indi with a victory roll into a double footstomp, and a flapjack scored a near fall. Hartwell would rake the eyes and land a big boot, before draping Io over the middle rope from the apron for a series of European uppercuts. Hartwell landed an impressive springboard elbow drop, but Shirai muscled out! Indi quickly lost her temper, when Io wiped her out with a rolling sole butt! The rushing double knees in the corner impacted Indi, setting her up for the Moonsault giving the new champ the win.

Flair and Square
The momentum of the new NXT Women's Champion was second to none, as Io Shirai celebrated a decisive win against Indi Hartwell after the match. "The Genius of the Sky" prepared to leave, when interrupted by the Iiconics of Monday Night RAW! Billie Kay and Peyton Royce came strutting out obnoxiously, lambasting Io for having the cheek to proclaim herself a real champion following the way she won back at NXT TakeOver: In Your House! Kay told Shirai she may have gotten lucky against Charlotte Flair, but she was yet to fairly beat "the Queen" in a match to prove her legitimacy. Io responded to the complaints with comments of her own, but Royce called the champ a cheater and rolled footage on the big screen! A replay from In Your House followed, showing Io Shirai defeat Charlotte with the Koji Clutch - though the footage zoomed in to reveal that "the Queen's" foot was evidently on the bottom rope.

The Iiconics blamed the amateur officiating for being the reason nobody had addressed it yet. Billie Kay and Peyton Royce believed Io Shirai should have been stripped of the NXT Women's Championship immediately, but "the Queen" sent them to get the job done a better way. Finally "the Genius of the Sky" had heard enough and ordered the besties to get in the ring! Io told them she'd take them both, as the Iiconics actually accepted the challenge. Shirai battled well alone - but when Io sidestepped Kay causing her to punch Royce in the face, out ran Charlotte Flair! The former NXT Women's Champion returned, with a big boot being the equalizer on "the Joshi Judas". The Iiconics held Io's arms as "the Queen" directed traffic. Repeating Io was a dirty cheater, she presented the title she once held. Flair proclaimed she would be getting it back - before clocking Shirai with the title gold! Flair and the Iiconics had invaded NXT from Monday Night RAW, and Flair raised Shirai's title high with intentions of getting a rematch!

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A replay aired, recapping the surprise return of Charlotte Flair, who would join the Iiconics in beating down the new NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai in the ring. A graphic aired, confirming that after the controversial ending to their match at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, "the Queen" had been granted her rematch - and it would go down in two weeks time on the first night of NXT Great American Bash!

  • NXT Great American Bash - Night 1 - NXT Women's Championship - Io Shirai (c) vs Charlotte Flair.
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4) Rhea Ripley def. Chelsea Green (with Robert Stone) (7:29) [THROUGH THE BREAK]

- It was over a month ago when Chelsea Green scored a huge upset against the former NXT Women's Champion. Rhea Ripley was still working through her issues with the Robert Stone Brand, which had begun following her major loss to Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania. Green had a momentary lapse of confidence causing her to try and flee as the bout got underway. Ripley began to throttle her as Robert Stone grew terrified, but Green was finally able to slip out to freedom. Rhea stared down "the Hipster" as she approached at ringside, when a bicycle kick saw Green take advantage. Inside, a camel clutch tried to restrain Ripley, who swiftly powered her up and connected with the Freefall! Green slipped out once again, with "the Brutalist" in control!
- The Robert Stone Brand starlet regained control during the commercial break, as a distraction from Robert Stone had afforded Chelsea Green time to strike with a knee to the face. A hanging choke saw Rhea Ripley struggle, as the arrogance of "the Victorious" saw her swagger and strut the ring. Rhea stunned her with a capoeira kick, before two short-arm clotheslines led to a ripcord dropkick! Ripley warcried to the NXT Universe's delight, but Chels would avoid the Rip Tide as she slipped out to the floor again. Faced by Stone once again, "the Hipster" did not notice the presence of Xia Li behind him! With a shot from a kendo stick, Stone went down and backed off, while Green struck with another bicycle kick. Back inside, the I'm Prettier went reversed - and the Rip Tide would put her away!

Rhea Ripley had avenged the upset loss suffered weeks ago with such a decisive victory against Chelsea Green, as Robert Stone cowered up the aisleway from the scowling, kendo stick-wielding Xia Li! Li had to have her mind set on the absent Aliyah, though tonight was all about "the Brutalist's" big win. Rhea motioned that the NXT Women's Championship would once again come to her waist, having seemingly moved on from the disappointing loss to Charlotte Flair back at WrestleMania.

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The Most Dangerous Tools
Earlier today, Ever-Rise hosted another rousing edition of 'Ever-Rise Live'. One week from their big chance at capturing the NXT Tag Team Champions, Matt Martel and Jeff Parker bragged about how it was a no-brainer that they would beat Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher. With no tag team chemistry, nor a single braincell between them, "the King of Bros" and his misfit friend "Timmy O'Tool" had nothing on the two of them. The cocky Canadians bragged about how they had earned their stripes, unlike a certain toothless wonder like Thatcher. Chase mentioned that the two of them were well-travelled too, and had wrestled in armories and bingo halls exactly like the two of them. Matt said in spite of this, they were podcast professionals, and while perhaps not friends of "the Show", this edition of 'Ever-Rise Live' sought to find out a little more about the lick of dry paint riding "the Original Bro's" coattails.

A smashcut brought 'Ever-Rise Live' to show Matt Martel and Chase Parker sitting across the counter from the NXT Tag Team Champions Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher. With coffee mugs in hand, Tim could not help but observe the mug and sit in silence, as Ever-Rise read questions from a script. They asked how Riddle "found" Thatcher, questioning if he was left in a basket on his front porch or abandoned in a dumpster on a sidestreet. Casually, "the Original Bro" claimed he and Tim had been buddies for a long time, having bonded in their time over sparring and experimenting with new submission strategies. They went way back, but all in all, while Timmy appeared to be a serious guy - he was the fun one of the team! Thatcher continued to glare into mid-air, bringing Ever-Rise to laugh and joke. Parker reached out waved his hands in front of him, prompting the animalistic submission expert to snap out for his fingers. Riddle joked that Timmy had been known to do that - warning him to keep to himself.

Matt Martel made a remark about the lack of intelligence the NXT Tag Team Champions had, and Matt Riddle joked while he and Timothy Thatcher might not be the sharpest tools in the shed, they were the most dangerous ones in there. They'd proven the two of them were wrestling machines, and told Ever-Rise to ask Rinku and Saurav how it felt being tied in knots by Riddle and Thatch! Chase Parker remained defensive around Thatch, as Riddle had a question for the hosts, asking whether they were aware what kind of fight they were in for next week. Riddle let Martel and Parker know they were in for a world of hurt, because he and "the Fun One" weren't going to take it easy on them. Riddle and Thatcher came to their feet. Offering handshakes to Ever-Rise, the challengers unwittingly accepted - but as Parker's palm approached Tim, he would take him down to the desk with the Fujiwara armbar! Riddle laughed that he'd warned Chase - as Martel scrambled to pry Tim off of his partner.

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Not in Swerve's House
McKenzie Mitchell was standing by backstage with Isaiah Scott, who was still riled up following him making the save for Leon Ruff at the hands of "Absolute" Ricky Starks. "Swerve" explained his relationship with Ruff to the broadcast journalist, claiming the reason he got involved was because he knew Ricky too well, and had no love for what he did to his guy Leon Ruff. Scott and Ruff had been around the block a good few times, and he cared about his man like a little brother. He might not be the biggest guy or the toughest guy - but he sure as hell had the biggest heart. That was not to underestimate his little bro, but meanwhile "Sweet Daddy" Starks wanted to come into "Swerve's" House and fool around - that was not going to sit well with "the King of Swerve Style". Isaiah removed his sunglasses and told Starks he was calling him out.

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Situated in front of the large "NXT" letters among the NXT Universe behind the plexiglass, "the Voice of 205 Live" Vic Joseph stood with a microphone, as he promoted this coming week's edition of 205 Live. Exclusive to the WWE Network, graphics aired revealing that the NXT Cruiserweight Champion Kushida would make his return to the show to battle Jake Atlas; plus, Cameron Grimes and Tony Nese would meet Oney Lorcan and Danny Buch. Things were heating up on "the Mile High Brand!"

5) The Brian Kendrick (with Ariya Daivari) def. Tyler Breeze (5:15)
- What started with jealousy when Tyler Breeze was granted a backstage interview over The Brian Kendrick had evolved into something personal. Aligning with Ariya Daivari on 205 Live recently, the 205 Live Originals had a plan to out the "worthlessness" of "Prince Pretty's" existence in the NXT Cruiserweight Division. Breeze opposed it with a forearm smash knocking Daivari from the apron, before a catapult sent Kendrick into the corner for a roll-up. Tyler stayed on with a series of dropkicks, when a cut-throat lungblower scored a two-counted. Kendrick feigned injury, but with the referee's back turned, Daivari struck with a hiptoss bouncing Breeze off the turnbuckles! Kendrick aggressively stomped away at Breeze, scoring a near fall with a Regal Plex. Breeze landed on his feet from the Tiger Suplex, and a comeback ensued with Breeze locking in the single-legged Boston crab! Daivari distracted however, when Kendrick opportunistically took him down with the Captain's Hook - forcing Breeze into submission.

The number's game had favored The Brian Kendrick, and with Ariya Daivari's distraction, he was able to secure the victory. "The Man With a Plan" was not yet done however, as he swaggered the ring before continuing to put the boots to a defenceless Tyler Breeze! "Prince Pretty" was dropped with Daivari's Persian Twist hammerlock lariat, when all of a sudden a song started playing. The NXT Universe began Fandango'ing, in salute of the returning Fandango! Racing to the ring, "the Dance Expert" battled both Kendrick and Daivari off, before dropping Kendrick with a Falcon Arrow. Fired up and revitalized after spending six months on the shelf, Breeze wiped Daivari out with the Beauty Shot - and Fandango rose to the top rope, landing the Last Dance! Breezango hugged it out, reunited once more.

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Still on the Hunt
Brendan Vink and Shane Thorne were celebratory over their unexpected victory, talking about how even they had no idea they would beat Bronson Reed and Dexter Lumis. Thorne laughed as he presented the turnbuckle rod responsible for crippling their big, dumb ex-best friend "the Battleship". The two mocked Reed, before talking about how the future was in their hands. Aussie Anarchy had officially arrived, and they were primed and ready to make "the Black and Gold Brand" theirs for the taking! The two high-fived, before spotting Dexter Lumis rise in the background behind them! Vink and Thorne cowered away, as the wide-eyed "Shadow Walker" clenched his gloved hands together. Cruel intentions were sure to come Aussie Anarchy's way when Lumis got his hands on them.

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The Velveteen Dream
walked the hall backstage, his purple bat as always in tow. The self-proclaimed "Protagonist" of NXT walked with a new mystique about him, as he prepared for an anticipated clash with Finn Bálor. "The Purple Rainmaker" was prepared for "the Prince", having left him laying in the middle of the ring last week. Ahead of the Great American Bash in three weeks, he was ready for the task of getting one over on Finn with the pending launch of the fan vote later tonight!

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Open Season
Curious footage aired from during the commercial break, taking us to NXT North American Champion Keith Lee as he drank a bottle of water after an intense title defense against Killian Dain. Into the locker room walked Roderick Strong and Bobby Fish, who congratulated "the Limitless One" on another landmark win. Roddy and Bobby toyed with the clearly amused champ, asking how many times he had won the title now. Roddy then reminded Fish of who Keith beat to win the first time. Coming to his feet, Lee told the Undisputed Era "lackeys" that he knew exactly the course of action that was going to follow. He had no qualms defending the gold against anybody; if Strong and Fish wanted to have a cointoss, play rock, paper, scissors or even have Adam Cole name who got a title shot, he'd allow it! Lee turned his back to the UE members, when they decided to gang up on him! Keith tried to fight them off only to be swarmed by Strong and Fish; Roddy picking up the gold and confiscating it from Lee!

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Graphics aired, as Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix began to discuss the Great American Bash kicking off in just two weeks time! A two-week blockbuster taking place on Wednesday, July 1 and Wednesday, July 8 - two major matches had already been made known, as the NXT Championship would be at stake with the results of a number one contender's fan vote pending; plus, in a rematch from NXT TakeOver: In Your House, Io Shirai would defend her NXT Women's Championship against Charlotte Flair.

  • NXT Great American Bash - Night 1 - NXT Women's Championship - Io Shirai (c) vs Charlotte Flair
  • NXT Great American Bash - Night 2 - NXT Championship - Adam Cole (c) vs Velveteen Dream or Finn Bálor
Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix soon shifted their attention to next week on NXT - where after losing the NXT North American Championship at NXT TakeOver: In Your House to Keith Lee, Damian Priest would return. The NXT Tag Team Championships would be at stake when Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher defended the gold against Ever-Rise; NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai and a partner of her choice would take on the Iiconics; Xia Li would finally get a chance at revenge for a knee injury against Aliyah suffered three months ago; and Deonna Purrazzo would go one-on-one with Mia Yim!
  • Damian Priest returns to NXT
  • NXT Tag Team Championship - Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher (c) vs Ever-Rise
  • NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai and TBA vs The Iiconics
  • Mia Yim vs Deonna Purrazzo
  • Aliyah vs Xia Li
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6) Finn Bálor def. Velveteen Dream (14:20) [THROUGH TWO BREAKS]
- The fan vote was moments away from launching live on WWE.com, to determine who would challenge Adam Cole for the NXT Championship at the Great American Bash on July 8. Following their confrontation in the ring earlier, Finn Bálor wasted no time interrupting the Velveteen Dream's entrance! With forearms flying on the aisle, "the Prince" rolled Dream into the ring to receive a diving crossbody to get the match underway. With a series of rapidfire elbows in the corner, a basement dropkick was attempted - but Dream rolled out to the floor. Finn would respond however, delivering a topé con hilo over the top rope! The NXT Universe were well behind "the Prince" as he posed towards the crowd. Bálor rolled Dream back inside a second time, for "the Purple Rainmaker" to crotch him on the top rope. With some right hands of his own, a draping swinging neckbreaker took Finn crashing to the canvas! Dream had his own supporters, as he showboated over Finn Bálor.
- Velveteen Dream sent Finn Bálor into the ropes for him to dropdown and leapfrog, but "the Purple Rainmaker" cut him off with an inverted atomic drop. A throat thrust dazed Bálor, before a spinebuster got a near fall. Dream was confident in covering Finn with suggestive covers, and flexing his long body to the NXT Universe. Dream went to send him into the ropes for the big boot reminiscent of Hulk Hogan - but Bálor responded with a legsweep and a double footstomp! Riding the wave of momentum, Finn landed a missile dropkick for a near fall, before following Dream to the floor with a running apron kick! Bálor continued to deck "the Protagonist" at ringside, when Velveteen cut him off with a clothesline. Dream was now on the comeback, but in hurling Finn inside, Bálor would cut him off with the Sling Blade - only getting a near fall. "The Prince" grew confident and stalked Dream with a kick to the ribcage, but Dream battled back with right hooks. Dream swung and missed a lariat, when Bálor dropped him with an inverted DDT!
- Finn Bálor maintained a side headlock on the rising Velveteen Dream, as the NXT Universe in Full Sail University chanted for both men back and forth. "The Purple Rainmaker" would duck two back elbows and the Sling Blade attempt from "the Prince", when both men's attempt at a crossbody saw both go down! The two resorted to a collision of strikes on the canvas, kneeling with forearm strikes exchanged. Dream began to "Hulk Up", absorbing the blows of Finn just to receive a basement dropkick. Dream missed the big boot again and the Pelé kick landed - but a lariat took him down! From the top rope, Dream landed the Macho Man Randy Savage influenced double axe handle, before look for the Dream Valley Driver. Finn reversed and tried the 1916, but Dream landed out and connected with the Dream Valley Driver - for a near fall! Velveteen was stunned, but went back to the top rope for the Purple Rainmaker. Finn evaded it, catching him with an inside cradle to take the win!

"The Prince" rolled out to ringside, where he had his hand raised by the official. Inside, the Velveteen Dream looked furious, having been inches away from certain victory just to have it snatched from him by his rival. Finn Bálor grinned at the irate "Purple Rainmaker" knowingly, when all of a sudden Adam Cole came running down the aisleway! The NXT Champion blasted Finn from behind a right hand, before putting the boots to the fatigued Irishman. Dream simply watched on, but after much deliberation, "the Protagonist" decided enough was enough! Grabbing his purple bat, the Dream leapt from the ring and pointed it towards "the Panama City Playboy". Dream followed him up the aisle, when Cole bailed backstage! Finn soon span Dream around for a tense face-off. In just mere moments, the poll would open up for the fan vote - but which of the two would go on to Great American Bash?

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Friday Night SmackDown #1087 – June 19, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by
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FIVE DAYS REMOVED FROM BACKLASH!

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205 Live #184 – June 19, 2020
1) NXT Cruiserweight Champion Kushida def. Jake Atlas with Back to the Future. Kushida and Atlas shook hands after the match. (8:11)
- Broadcast team Vic Joseph and Dio Maddin reviewed the parking lot kidnappings from several months ago, and how nobody had heard from Joaquin Wilde nor Raúl Mendoza since. This Wednesday night on NXT, El Hijo Del Fantasma planned to call out his attempted kidnappers.
2) Oney Lorcan and Danny Burch def. Cameron Grimes and Tehuti Miles when Burch hit a lariat into Lorcan's half-and-half suplex on Miles. Grimes helped Miles to his feet after the match, before taking him out with the Cave In. "The Carolina Caveman" left alone. (7:47)

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A video package aired, recapping this past weekend at WWE Backlash. The WWE Universal Championship dispute was settled as Jeff Hardy went to war in a Ladder match against Sheamus. "The Celtic Warrior" was explosive and posed a genuine threat to the title reign of "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior", though just when Sheamus had the assist of Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura of the Artist Collective, out came the new WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak to fend them off. The Irishman looked to take Hardy out of action by smashing his ankle across the steel steps, but Hardy would miraculously turn the tables. Burying Sheamus in ladders after a Twist of Fate atop the steps, Jeff would retain the gold. "The Charismatic Enigma's" star continued to grow...when the lights turned to red, and from the other side of the ladder climbed The Fiend - out to reclaim the WWE Universal Championship!

Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed us to Friday Night SmackDown, days removed from WWE Backlash this past Sunday night. Presented by Progressive - the First Round Choice for Auto-Insurance, the two discussed the many transpiring developments coming out of the WWE Network special. Though none were more significant than the terrifying return of The Fiend. Tonight, the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy had intentions of calling out the man behind the mask, Bray Wyatt.

  • WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy calls out Bray Wyatt
  • SmackDown Tag Team Championship - Heavy Machinery (c) vs John Morrison and The Miz
  • Apollo Crews vs King Corbin
  • WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks, SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley and Tamina vs Alexa Bliss, Nikki Cross and Carmella
1) The New Day def. The Forgotten Sons (with Steve Cutler) in a Street Fight (10:16) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- The New Day had had issues with the Forgotten Sons dating back to the arrival of the trio shortly after WrestleMania. Responsible for barring the New Day any opportunities at the SmackDown Tag Team Championships so long as John Morrison and The Miz held them, it had all led to this Street Fight. With wins against one another, a Street Fight was perhaps the venue to settle it, as a four-man free-for-all kicked things off at ringside! Steve Cutler kept his distance whilst Jaxson Ryker and Wesley Blake interrupted the arrival of Big E and Kofi Kingston, but the New Day would gain the upper hand! Warding Cutler with the lead pipe away, inside a monkey flip for Ryker fed into a body block from Big E. The Forgotten Sons tried to pick up some steam once Blake connected with a lungblower, and a double uranage backbreaker dropped Big E - but Kofi came out of nowhere with shots from two trash can lids! Causing Ryker and Blake to bail, with a boost from Big E, Kofi soared with a Trust Fall plancha over the top rope onto all three Sons!
- The tables had turned against the New Day during the break, as Kofi Kingston rolled Wesley Blake inside to be struck from behind by Steve Cutler. The Forgotten Sons focused their attack on Big E, who tackled Ryker into the corner, though the Forgotten Sons would execute a unique assisted flatliner, with Ryker executing the move simultaneous to Blake landing a missile dropkick. The New Day stayed in the fight, as a buckle bomb saw Blake send Kofi into the knees of Ryker, but Big E returned with a steel chair! Shots to "the War Heroes" saw Big E feeling it, delivering the overhead belly-to-belly suplex to Blake - just for Blake to break up the fall! Wielding the lead pipe, Cutler's attempt saw Kofi intercept with a jumping double footstomp! Big E delivered a spear through the ropes sending Blake from the apron to the floor, when Ryker dropped Kofi with a sit-out spinebuster known as No Remorse. Big E would make the save, but as Ryker tried to fight them, the New Day capitalized with the Midnight Hour onto the chair to take the win!

Kofi Kingston and Big E had been to battle but came out on top against "the War Heroes" tonight. The Forgotten Sons were in varying states of disarray, and it was all thanks to the tag team experience of the New Day. The two celebrated with the WWE Universe through the plexiglass walls at ringside, while Steve Cutler, Jaxson Ryker and Wesley Blake came back together on the rampway, disillusioned by the loss in this Street Fight.

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Nothing to See Here
Sasha Banks
was in the dressing room with Tamina, as she wanted to ask "the Bouncer" about what was said when Bayley called her last week after their match. Remaining tight-lipped, Tamina was about to speak when into the room walked the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley. Pleased to see her two favorite people, "Bayley 2 Belts" hugged "the Legit Boss", before knowingly gesturing to Tamina to keep her yapper shut! A suspicious Sasha asked her BFF how her vacation treated her, to which the champ mentioned that she felt so much better for it. Being a double champ really took it out of a gal! But with that said, she was back and re-energized, ready to fight alongside her girlies. Bayley hugged Sasha before taking off. Sasha still appeared perplexed, as she looked at the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship hanging on the wall and shrugged.

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A video package recapped the dramatic turn of events in the SmackDown Tag Team Championship match from this past Sunday at Backlash. John Morrison and The Miz strived to walk out still "the Most Winningest Tag Team in SmackDown History", but walked into a hard-fought battle with Otis and Tucker of Heavy Machinery. Despite their best efforts, "the Shaman of Sexy" was dropped with the Compactor, and while "the A-Lister" was inches from making the save, "the Blue Collar Boys" accomplished their goal - winning their first gold since arriving in the WWE.

The Miz read a screenplay in a director's chair in his dressing room, when up behind him surprised John Morrison. Enthused to see how his best friend was, "the Friday Night Delight" declared tonight was the night "the Most Winningest Tag Team in SmackDown History" recaptured the SmackDown Tag Team Championships. "The A-Lister" appeared discouraged, though JoMo assured Miz that Heavy Machinery got lucky at Backlash. Otis and Tucker were living in a fantasy, and there was no ifs or buts about it. "The Shaman of Sexy" maintained Miz and Morrison were going to bring the ugly rendition of Shrek 2 and snap "the Blue Collar Boys" into reality. Miz agreed, but remained sceptical. Morrison gave him a pep talk, telling Miz that he was awesome - and nobody could take that away from him. He was Hollywood, and few other WWE Superstars could possibly ever say that. Miz grinned, claiming he knew exactly what to say and when to say it. Miz told Morrison they'd knock it out of the park tonight, and an excited Morrison left to get ready.

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The Working Man's Title
The WWE Performance Center provided a polite response to the suit-clad Drew Gulak. Standing before them in the ring with a microphone in hand, "the Militant Mat-Mite" discussed how tremendous Backlash was. Titles changed hands, but none in quite as spectacular fashion as the feat his training partner accomplished. Welcoming out the brand new WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan, the WWE Universe came to their feet as "the Yes Man" arrived. Throwing his hands into the air and pacing sideways down the rampway, Bryan would join Gulak in the ring where the two shook hands. He spoke about the battle he had with Sami Zayn mere days ago, and how he still felt the rush of the competition and the crowd chanting "YES!" alongside him. He felt each and every blow that "the Great Liberator" mustered up, and he sensed the tingling of adulation coarsing through his veins. Bryan claimed that last Sunday night, Sami did not disappoint when he brought every bit of fight - even if he did get the Artist Collective involved.

Daniel Bryan claimed that there, against all odds, he proved exactly why he was "the Submission Expert" because professional wrestling was what he did and what he breathed! Drew Gulak watched on proudly, as the WWE Universe chanted "YES!" in approval. But, the WWE Intercontinental Champion made sure everybody knew that the work didn't stop just because he wore gold around his waist. His job had just begun. Removing the title and raising it high, Daniel reminded all of the forty-one year lineage of the gold - how it had been held by the very best in the world. With a gigantic host of names, among them men like Ricky "the Dragon" Steamboat, Bret "Hitman" Hart, "the Heartbreak Kid" Shawn Michaels and Kurt Angle had held it. Throughout the history of sports entertainment, it had been the one true working man's title in WWE - and that's exactly what Daniel vowed to make of it!

"The Yes Man" planned to remove the stink from the WWE Intercontinental Championship brought on by the Sami Zayns of the WWE, when out came King Corbin. Interrupting Daniel Bryan, the man who had had his fair share of issues with Drew Gulak of late walked out to the rampway dressed for competition. "Wrestling Royalty" told Daniel he truly believed his own hype. With sarcasm, the King salivated after yet another marvelous performance brought on by the great Daniel Bryan. A masterclass was put on, when he ousted Sami Zayn! Corbin mocked the idea that this artform Daniel spoke of had any place in today's WWE - maintaining that as pretty as some of his little submissions could be, he was nothing more than a bug on his windscreen. Climbing into the ring, the King told Daniel to look at his crown and sceptre and understand that if anybody was a true Superstar here - it was him! Corbin basked in his own essence, when Daniel admitted he looked ridiculous.

Drew Gulak laughed when King Corbin defended his appearance. He was the 2019 King of the Ring winner, and that meant he was owed respect! Daniel Bryan claimed the only respect he had was the hard-working trainees of fast-food establishments across the United States. Daniel compared Corbin to legendary mascots like Colonel Sanders and the Burger King - but ultimately, King Corbin was more like a Ronald McDonald! Corbin was furious, when "the Militant Mat-Mite" jumped in claiming if he thought he'd forgotten what happened last week, he had the nerve to take him down in the Gu-Lock right there and then. Daniel chuckled, but told the King with all seriousness, he wanted to see what he could do. As the holder of the prestigious working man's title, Daniel offered to defend the WWE Intercontinental Championship against whoever came out on top in his match tonight. Corbin bragged that Bryan's reign would go cut short - when interrupted by Apollo Crews! Motivated and up for the challenge, Apollo headed to the ring.

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The Progressive Match-Flo aired, taking us back to last week on Friday Night SmackDown. Having grown tired of being humiliated by the Hacker, Dolph Ziggler had called out the hooded figure in the computer room and took to the ring to proclaim them a coward. In response, the shadowed figure appeared on the screen and responded to "the Show Off" claiming that thanks to Dolph, the "idea" had become "reality". With more in mind, the anonymous figure had declared the fun and games had only just begun.

Dolph Ziggler walked the backstage area, when he stumbled across the Lucha House Party. Gran Metalik and Lince Dorado talked among themselves, but with "the Show Off" at ear's length, Dolph speculated what they were saying. He was no idiot - he could perfectly understand Spanish! Dolph ranted to the luchadores that the Hacker was coward who got off trying to humiliate the likes of himself, who wasn't afraid to show their face to envious masked men like them. Dolph told "the Golden Lion" and "the King of the Ropes" that they too were cowardly, mocking the idea of what they looked like under the hoods. He called the two ugly and unattractive, bringing Dorado to shove him back! Dorado told Dolph he was no idiot either - he perfectly understood English! Lince had watched Dolph run his mouth for long enough, but tonight was where they would be the ones to shut him up. Hacker or no Hacker, Dorado challenged him to a match tonight! Taken aback, "the Show Off" did not see that coming.

  • Tonight - Lince Dorado vs Dolph Ziggler
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2) King Corbin def. Apollo Crews to be named number one contender to the WWE Intercontinental Championship (5:40)
- Following King Corbin's victory on the Backlash Kickoff Show, Apollo Crews had asked for this rematch tonight, but with the victor earning a WWE Intercontinental Championship opportunity, the stakes were higher. Apollo caught Corbin with an armdrag and a dropkick, clotheslining him to the ringside floor. A standing moonsault from the apron followed, but upon being rolled back in, Corbin responded with the Dream Crusher. Showboating as he choked and stomped at Crews, a seated surfboard stretch saw him build up to be cut off with an inverted Yokosuka cutter. Corbin posed, but it proved to be his downfall once Apollo clocked him with an enzuigiri and a spinebuster! The military press slam landed, when a standing moonsault was missed. Crews blocked the Deep Six but his foot skimmed the referee, temporarily incapacitating him. Suddenly, as Apollo landed the Chariot, out of nowhere came Tony Nese with the Running Neese in the corner! Slipping to ringside, Corbin capitalized with the End of Days to claim the win.

Tony Nese watched on with a grin on his face, as King Corbin would have his hand raised by the official. Apollo Crews rolled out to the floor, having come so close to be thwarted by "the Premier Athlete". Yet as the newly-named number one contender to the WWE Intercontinental Championship celebrated an emphatic victory, he would be joined by the NXT Cruiserweight! Nese applauded the King of the Ring, and even got on his knees to bow down to "Wrestling Royalty". As Nese paid his respects, Daniel Bryan and Daniel Bryan watched with looks of amusement on their faces from the backstage monitor.

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Chips on Shoulders
Kayla Braxton was standing by backstage with Sonya Deville, who strutted onto the screen brandishing an arrogant grin on her face. Kayla wanted to understand the despicable act she took part in this past Sunday at Backlash, though "the Law" claimed to no nothing of what she meant. Rolling footage from last week on Friday Night SmackDown, where Sonya introduced a steel chair and smashed it across Mandy Rose's shoulder; soon footage aired from Backlash. As things were going "the Golden Goddess's" way, Mandy would soon find herself taken down and trapped in a bridging armbar that would force her to tap. Worse, the aftermath saw Sonya refuse to release the hold until Heavy Machinery arrived at the scene. Scoffing, Sonya told Kayla she didn't expect her to understand and nor did she care to explain. As well-documented, Fire & Desire's friendship was greater than anything the WWE Universe would ever know. Their bond was indestructible - or so she thought.

Sonya Deville mused that all it took was one disgustingly repulsive and putrid blob like Otis to drive their friendship into the ground. All that remained between herself and Mandy Rose was bitterness. "The Law" told Kayla Braxton that she was doing fine, but feared for "the Golden Goddess". She was a trophy gilfriend, and knowing the lifespan Otis was going to have with his cholesterol - she expected Mandy to be on her way to dropping off fat baby Otis's anytime now! Mandy Rose hit the scene from behind, out to get even with Sonya! With a taped shoulder, Mandy tackled her former friend over a table of production equipment, before mounting her with lefts and rights. All it took was one right hand to the shoulder to buy "the Law" space, and a knee strike took Mandy down! As she laid on the concrete, Deville grabbed her bad shoulder with cruel intentions - when in raced Heavy Machinery to "the Precious Peach's" aid. Tucker comforted Otis, as he attended to Mandy. How could the new SmackDown Tag Team Champions focus?

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A replay aired, taking us back to moments ago where a furious Mandy Rose rushed in for revenge on Sonya Deville for the added damage done to her shoulder at Backlash, just for "the Law" to target the limb for her own gain. Sonya appeared to be on her way to putting "the Golden Goddess" on the shelf, until Heavy Machinery arrived at the scene.

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3) Alexa Bliss, Nikki Cross and Carmella def. Tamina and WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks and SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley (6:25) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Sasha Banks' loyalty to Bayley was raised in question by Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross last week, and after overhearing Tamina being dressed down over a phonecall by her best friend, "the Legit Boss's" suspicions had to be raised. The former SmackDown Tag Team Champions immediately targeted the SmackDown Women's Champion, leading to a tag team brawl with Sasha Banks and Tamina. It broke down with "the Bouncer" receiving two a battering ram in the corner from "Naughty Nikki", a running dropkick from "Little Miss Bliss", and finally a Princess Kick from Carmella! Tamina was forced to flee, but would be given no room for a breather as Bliss connected with a cannonball from the apron. Cross followed with a dive through the ropes, and Carmella would drag Sasha back inside for a flatliner for a near fall. Bayley dragged her best friend out to ringside, as Alexa and Nikki challenged the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions to come back and fight.
- Nikki Cross fought Bayley and Sasha Banks, the Scotswoman able to wipe the SmackDown Women's Champion out with a forearm when Tamina delivered an over-shoulder backbreaker! "Naughty Nikki" was at the mercy of "the Bouncer", who applied a camel clutch. "The Legit Boss" struck with a Meteora for a near fall. Sasha slapped her around and had Bayley join in, as the two goaded Alexa Bliss and Carmella. Bayley clutched Nikki when Sasha flew overhead with a somersault codebreaker; the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions rubbing her face into the mat. "The Princess of Staten Island" rallied the WWE Universe behind her, when Nikki cut a trash talking Bayley off with a neckbreaker! Carmella hit the ring with clotheslines and single-leg dropkicks for all, when the Mella Go Round connected on Bayley. With ten punches on Tamina, Sasha would strike with running knees, when Alexa tagged in. Bayley watched, as "Little Miss Bliss" stunned "the Bouncer" with the Goddess Right - and a DDT would put her down for the win!

The SmackDown Women's Champion watched in disgust, as Alexa Bliss would be joined by an overly excited Nikki Cross! The BFFs reunited with a hug, when joined by Carmella to have their hands raised. "The Princess of Staten Island" congratulated "Little Miss Bliss" on the victory against "the Bouncer" Tamina, all the while Sasha Banks rejoined the agitated Bayley. The WWE Women's Tag Team Champions could only watch, though "the Legit Boss!" was weary of her frustrated best friend.

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Kayla Braxton was joined by the New Day, parading and taking the broadcast journalist by surprise with 'the Power of Positivity'. Big E and Kofi Kingston were over the moon, having come out on top against the Forgotten Sons. The faces of Jaxson Ryker, Steve Cutler and Wesley Blake may go forgotten, but New Day would never forget the booty-whooping "the War Heroes" received! Big E was jazzed because John Morrison and The Miz were no longer SmackDown Tag Team Champions - and that meant the ban was lifted! Kofi claimed the titles were not off limits for the New Day, as Big E thrusted his hips. Vowing to become nine-time WWE Tag Team Champions, their chanting was interrupted by Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura. "The Swiss Cyborg" claimed New Day were not going to leap them in the standings. "The Artist" said they would have to go through them first, and the New Day challenged them to a match next week! Big E and Kofi danced away, leaving the Artist Collective unimpressed.

  • Next week - The New Day vs Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura
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Bandaged and sore following the events of the Ladder match back at Backlash, the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy had still managed to make it to the WWE Performance Center tonight. Following his defeat of Sheamus last Sunday, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" had had an eerie encounter with none other than The Fiend. Up next, Jeff had documented plans to call out the man behind the madness - Bray Wyatt!

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An advertisement aired, promoting the all-new free version of the WWE Network. Bringing the best in entertainment, with no credit card required, subscribers could gain access to over 15,000 available titles today.

Crazier Than A Box of Squirrels
The nostalgic sound of "No More Words" by Endeverafter blasted through the WWE Performance Center, bringing the WWE Universal Champion out to the stage. Throwing his arms into the air, Jeff Hardy showboated as he came down to the ring. Though the effects of the Ladder match this past weekend were on display, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" graced the microphone as he addressed the performance Sheamus put on at Backlash. "The Celtic Warrior" gave him one hell of a fight, but he expected nothing less from an Irishman. But in the end, it was contested in his playground - the match that was already on the map, but also the very match he revolutionized for good! Jeff had the selection of audience members on his side, before getting to what happened after the match. In what was supposed to be the closing act of his redemption, he celebrated with the WWE Universal Championship he had to pry from the heavens above - only to be faced with an uninvited guest. On the opposite side of the ladder saw a visitor arrive: his name, The Fiend.

The WWE Universal Champion spoke about having seen exactly the psychotic things in which the Fiend was capable of, and "the New Face of Fear" was nothing to mess with. Jeff Hardy also knew the Fiend was retracing his steps, having had his reign of terror broken by Goldberg at Super Show-Down, for the title he now held! Jeff made no qualms that he knew all about the Fiend, but he was also all so familiar with the man behind the mask. The same guy his brother Matt told him all about, when they held the RAW Tag Team Championships together. With that, Jeff called out Bray Wyatt! Hardy called out to the kindred spirit, claiming this was "Brother Nero" reaching out to "Brother Bray". Hardy waited patiently, staring at the video screen - when luck would have it, 'the Firefly Fun House' title sequence aired on the stage! Bray Wyatt came through the door to a round of applause from the auidence of children. His ears were ringing, and everybody knew what that meant - it was time for Bray to make his retort.

Bray Wyatt stood in a navy sweater on the set of 'the Firefly Fun House' as he talked about how it was no secret that he and the Hardy Family had history. Much like Jeff Hardy had said, he and Matt Hardy were bitter enemies who made better friends. But this was a different time, and this incarnation of Bray came from another place. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" listened as Bray spoke about all of the adulation he had overcome. The amount of adversity he had overtaken deserved so much more than the clickbait articles and mini-documentary pieces Hardy had had focused on him. For every day in rehab or the ICU for another daredevil stunt gone wrong - Jeff was a real survivor! Wyatt took a fedora from the coatrack behind him just to tip it for the WWE Universal Champion, commending him on a job well done... but "he" didn't care for anything he had done. Bray talked about how he watched, heard and saw Jeff survive everything he had dealt to him, even if 99% of the time, it was self-inflicted!

The corporate machine loved a success story, which was why Jeff Hardy was where he was. Bray Wyatt admitted what The Fiend wanted: the WWE Universal Championship. Bray was forgiving on "Brother Nero", though The Fiend was not. Wyatt mused how "he" was a survivor too. The difference was for reasons he could not understand, 'the Fireflies' loved Hardy! Meanwhile, The Fiend: everybody feared him. He was "the New Face of Fear", a monster like no other. Warning Jeff he did not want "him" to eat the champ alive, Bray said Jeff had what "he" desired. Wyatt's smile disappeared, threatening him to wrap up his redemption arc. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" called Bray crazier than a box of squirrels, knowing the WWE Universe liked his shtick, but Jeff was tired! If The Fiend was to come for him, that was cool by him - proposing he bring his friend next week! Astonished by his bravery, Bray accepted, planning to summon The Fiend! Joyously, he waved goodbye and bidded him farewell for "the last time".

  • Next week - Bray Wyatt summons The Fiend to meet the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy
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The new SmackDown Tag Team Champions Heavy Machinery stepped out of the trainer's office, as Sarah Schreiber wished to receive a medical update on the condition of Mandy Rose. Emotionally, Otis could not even make eye contact, as Tucker explained what happened. At the hands of Sonya Deville, Mandy had suffered what the doctor thought was a dislocated shoulder. "Tucky" put his hand on Otis's shoulder as he commented that spiritually, Mandy was doing as good as ever. Otis was a rollercoaster of emotions but said that he was dedicating tonight's match to his "Precious Peach", because it was all thanks to her that he and "Tucky" made it to the gold. Otis talked about how he wasn't the most confident man, but the last thing he was was a joke. They were "Blue Collar Boys", and tonight against John Morrison and The Miz - they were going to prove Backlash was no fluke! Otis stormed off, surprising even his partner.

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An advertisement aired, promoting the brand new edition of the 'Broken Skull Sessions'. Stone Cold Steve Austin would be joined by WWE Hall of Famer, "the World's Strongest Man" Mark Henry. It would premiere exclusively on the WWE Network, one week from Sunday.

Following discussion from Michael Cole and Corey Graves, the broadcast team fed to a video package showing the WWE Community outreach work that Titus O'Neil had been working on. Following his nomination, it had been confirmed that he was officially a finalist in the running for the 2020 Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Award.

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5) Dolph Ziggler def. Lince Dorado (4:11)
- Last week's near-meeting with The Hacker had drawn paranoia from "the Show Off", as Dolph Ziggler's backstage encounter with Lucha House Party saw Lince Dorado stand up for he and Gran Metalik. "The Golden Lynx" shut the cocky veteran down early with a spinning wheel kick and a hurricanrana, before Dolph backdropped him to the apron. A gamengiri saw Lince come back in, landing the Handspring Stunner for a near fall! Dorado teased a dive through the ropes, but Dolph would bail. Yet it was all part of Lince's strategy, as he would soar with an Asai moonsault! Back inside, Ziggler cut him off with a jumping DDT, when the aggressive side set in. A sequence of elbow drops led to a jumping one, but Dorado stayed in the game. The Sleeper was attempted but Lince fought back up, stunning Dolph with a super kick! To the top rope saw Dorado go, but the Shooting Star Press connected - with no water in the pool. Ziggler connected with a Super Kick of his own to capitalize on victory.

Close Encounters of the Anonymous Kind
"The Show Off" had been given a real fight from Lince Dorado, but it would come to a halt thanks to the antics of Dolph Ziggler. "The Golden Lynx" held his jaw in pain on the canvas, when Dolph mouthed off to Dorado - speaking to him as though he were the Hacker! Dolph promptly began to unlace the back of Dorado's mask, looking to unmask the luchador. Tradition was about to be desecrated, when he spotted a figure standing in the front row behind the plexiglass - the Hacker! Dolph relinquished Lince's mask and rolled out to confront the man behind the wall, when Gran Metalik arrived with a rope-walking diving crossbody to the floor! Metalik levelled Dolph with a series of strikes causing him to flee the ringside area, leaving Lucha House Party to come together at ringside. Meanwhile, the anonymous, hooded figure disappeared through the WWE Universe.

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The new WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and his training partner Drew Gulak were between workout sessions in the weight room of the WWE Performance Center, when in swaggered the newly-named number one contender King Corbin. Flanked by the obnoxious "Premier Athlete" Tony Nese, "Wrestling Royalty" wished for "the Yes Man" to see who he would be losing his title to. Daniel jokingly asked if it was his new pal Tony, who angrily corrected him - it was the Duke Antony Nese to him! Gulak asked if this was a joke, when the King of the Ring winner told him the only joke here was "the Militant Mat-Mite". The Royal Family were going to make Friday Night SmackDown their kingdom, and the next phase of their plan involved taking the IC title from "the Submission Expert's" waist. The King and the Duke departed, leaving Daniel to scratch his head in confusion. Gulak called them a family of tools!

▆▆▆

Elsewhere, the former SmackDown Tag Team Champions were seen making their way down to the corridor. En route to their rematch for the titles they lost last Sunday at Backlash, John Morrison and The Miz were motivated and ready for the challenge. The main event title match against the new champs Heavy Machinery was coming up next!

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An advertisement aired, promoting the fifth episode of the Limited Series Event - 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride'. "Chapter 5: Revelations" would premiere this Sunday - exclusively on the WWE Network.

In the backstage corridor, the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley could be heard raising her voice at somebody. Furious about the way in which tonight's six-woman tag team bout came to a close, "Bayley 2 Belts" was at the end of her tether with Tamina. She claimed "the Bouncer" was supposed to be her and Sasha Banks' muscle - but all she had done since she was brought into their team of winners was lose, lose lose! Bayley questioned what Tamina had spent the past decade of being a WWE Superstar doing - she was worthless! As Bayley threatened her to get her act together or get out, the champ stormed off. A tight-lipped Tamina remained stonefaced, when the camera zoomed in to reveal the WWE Women's Tag Team Champion's partner Sasha Banks through the crack of the door. Having witnessed the entire thing, "the Legit Boss" now had to be questioning her loyalty to Bayley.

▆▆▆

Michael Cole and Corey Graves talked about the night it had been on Friday Night SmackDown, before talking up what was coming up next week on FOX. While the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy had daringly challenged Bray Wyatt to summon The Fiend for an in-ring confrontation; the WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak would meet King Corbin and his new accomplice Duke Antony Nese. Plus, the New Day would meet Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura; and Renee Young would conduct a sit-down interview with Lacey Evans, who had been absent from the WWE Performance Center since her Lumberjack match loss to Bayley.

  • Bray Wyatt summons The Fiend to meet the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy
  • WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak vs King Corbin and Duke Antony Nese
  • The New Day vs Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura
  • Renee Young conducts a sit-down interview with Lacey Evans
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5) Heavy Machinery (c) def. John Morrison and The Miz to retain the SmackDown Tag Team Championship (11:19) [THROUGH THE BREAK]

- Dreams came true at Backlash, when Heavy Machinery captured their first taste of gold. Defeating John Morrison and The Miz to become SmackDown Tag Team Champions, the new champs looked to maintain their place while the former champions looked to reclaim their mantle as "the Most Winningest Tag Team in SmackDown History". "The A-Lister" and "the Shaman of Sexy" jumped the new champs as their backs were turned, but "the Blue Collar Boys" brought the fight! with Miz and Morrison narrowly avoiding being whipped into each other - only to be hoisted up and rammed into each other spine-to-spine! An incensed Otis was still reeling after the fate that befell her girlfriend Mandy Rose. A rollercoaster of emotions, Otis would catch an inbound John Morrison off the apron, body slamming him across the apron. Miz chop blocked the bandaged knee, the leftover result of the steel chair Pillmanizing that occured last week. Otis caught him with a military press when Morrison shot through the ropes with a dive!
- The knee of Otis was a target as far as John Morrison and The Miz was concerned, as the former champs split the legs of the big man, tearing at the bandaged knee. "The Shaman of Sexy" taunted "Tucky", mimicking Heavy Machinery's team spirit before a split-legged moonsault landed across the leg. "The A-Lister" teased applying the Figure-4 Leglock, but the tree trunk legs saw Otis send him into the ring post! A discus lariat connected, but before a tag could take place, Morrison dragged Tucker from the apron. John Morrison landed the Flying Chuck for a near fall, when Miz's snap DDT saw Otis deliver a belly-to-belly suplex in reverse! Tucker got the tag and ran wild, a Lou Thesz press for Miz leading to a corner splash for JoMo - who dragged the referee in the way! Miz introduced the SmackDown Tag Team Championship, but he would miss Tucker and nail his partner instead. As a super kick wiped out Miz, Morrison was dropped with a trapping suplex from Tucker - paving the way for the Caterpillar to allow Otis the three count!

Hey Hey, No No
Otis and Tucker came together in a hugging salute, having proven that Sunday at Backlash was no fluke! "The Blue Collar Boys" were awarded the SmackDown Tag Team Championships, which they showcased to the WWE Universe. With a celebratory belly-tbounce, Heavy Machinery left a crestfallen Miz kneeling at the side of John Morrison. Devastated by the loss and clutching his ribs, "the Shaman of Sexy" tried to convince "the A-Lister" it was not his fault. Morrison reassured his disillusioned best friend, who could not believe he had lost the titles - as well as the stipulated rematch clause in their contract. In spite of it, the Miz would accept Morrison's hand to come back to his feet, and the two would hug it out...but once Morrison's back was turned, Miz would wipe him out with the Skull Crushing Finale! A cold demeanor came over "the A-Lister's" face, as he left his best friend and co-host of 'the Dirt Sheet' down and unconscious. So much for "the Most Winningest Tag Team in SmackDown History!"

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Wrestlers Shed Light on Industry’s Toxic Culture With #SpeakingOut
by Dan Gartland

June 19, 2020

A growing movement on social media is shedding light on sexual, physical and emotional abuse inflicted by and upon members of the wrestling industry.

Using the hashtag “#SpeakingOut” on Twitter, many prominent female wrestlers are commending those who have come forward to share their experiences.

At least three male WWE wrestlers have also been accused of misconduct against women. Jordan Devlin, who wrestles for WWE’s NXT UK brand and was WWE’s Cruiserweight Champion until travel issues related to the pandemic forced him to drop the belt, was accused of physical abuse by a woman who shared photos of her bruised body.

“We take any allegation of this nature very seriously and are looking into the matter,” WWE said in a statement.

Candy Cartwright, an independent wrestler, accused WWE’s Matt Riddle of pressuring her into performing sex acts while in a van with other wrestlers in 2018. Riddle, in Twitter direct messages to a British YouTuber whom he had previously been interviewed by, denied the allegation and accused Cartwright of harassing him. Riddle said his lawyer and WWE were exploring the possibility of legal action against Cartwright. WWE’s statement on the allegations against Riddle was identical to the one issued about Devlin.

A third WWE wrestler was accused by a woman on Twitter of making repeated unwanted sexual advances at a 2014 New Year’s Eve party.

Longtime wrestling personality Jim Cornette and his wife, Stacey, are also accused of acting inappropriately with wrestlers. Independent wrestler Phil Earley alleged that when Cornette was in charge of Ohio Valley Wrestling, then a developmental territory for WWE, novice wrestlers were pressured into performing sex acts with Stacey (“many times with [Cornette] watching”) in exchange for opportunities in OVW. Several former OVW performers backed up Earley’s allegations. (During an argument with Cornette on Twitter in March, All Elite Wrestling’s Joey Janela alluded to “a hot tub party. Like the ones you and your wife used to have with the OVW boys.”)

Other male wrestlers have come forward to say they were taken advantage of early in their careers.

The majority of the wrestlers being accused of misconduct by women using the #SpeakingOut hashtag work in the U.K. On Wednesday, prominent independent wrestler David Starr (real name Max Barsky), an American who was a fixture in the British wrestling scene, was accused of sexual abuse by a woman he had been in a relationship with. Several promotions cut ties with Starr after the allegations.




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WWE halts production after wrestler tests positive for COVID-19
by Liz Roscher

June 16, 2020

World Wrestling Entertainment has temporarily suspended television production at its Performance Center in Orlando, Florida, after a developmental wrestler tested positive for COVID-19.

The wrestler, who was not named, was last at the Performance Center on June 9. In a statement, WWE associate medical director Dr. Jeffrey Dugas said that no other individuals have reported any symptoms, but production will be halted so everyone involved can be tested.

“A developmental talent, who was last on site at WWE’s training facility on Tuesday, June 9, has tested positive for COVID-19. Since that time, no other individuals that attended the facility have reported symptoms,” Dugas said in the WWE’s statement.

“However, out of an abundance of caution and to ensure the health and safety of the company's performers and staff, all talent, production crew and employees on site at the training and production facilities will be tested for COVID-19 immediately. Following the test results, WWE plans to proceed with its normal television production schedule”

Dean Muhtadi, who goes by Mojo Rawley in WWE, tweeted about his own COVID-19 test on Tuesday morning.

Since WWE’s training facility is located in Florida, they’ve been able to continue producing television programs during the widespread shutdown driven by the COVID-19 pandemic. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis decided in mid-April that the WWE and other sports, entertainment and media were all essential businesses that could continue operating despite statewide stay-at-home orders.

Recently, WWE started having developmental talent appear ringside as audience members. They’ve been separated from the wrestlers with a large pane of plexiglass, similar to a hockey arena. According to Bryan Alvarez of the Wrestling Observer, the WWE would not allow anyone to wear masks.

The Wrestling Observer also reported that these COVID-19 tests would be the first that the WWE has done. An employee identified as on-screen talent tested positive in April, but the WWE said that the individual had no contact with any WWE employees or wrestlers after being exposed to the virus by two healthcare workers. They considered the situation to be “low risk” and did not initiate employee or wrestler testing.




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JUNE 22, 2020 OBSERVER NEWSLETTER: #SPEAKINGOUT AND THE DAVID STARR ALLEGATIONS, MORE

#SPEAKINGOUT BEGINS
The career of David Starr (Max Barsky, 29) appears in jeopardy after a sexual assault charge and public exchange between Starr and an ex-girlfriend named Victoria took place on social media this past week.

This has led to a groundswell of charges on social media, largely involving U.K. wrestlers, but also a number of well known names on the U.S. scene.

Before the end of the day, accusations were being thrown around that included a ton of name wrestlers and former wrestling performers, including one Hall of Famer. There are at least six performers for the WWE U.K. brand charged in different social media posts, as well as one AEW wrestler by name and second one implied, a top ROH star, an NWA exec and a well known Impact name. Undoubtedly this is the tip of the iceberg and all of these stories and more are likely to unfold over the next week.

WWE did make a statement regarding Jordan Devlin, whose name came up in a unique way.

Devlin, who was cruiserweight champion until plans changed on the idea of an interim champion and Kushida was crowned the permanent champion on 6/7, noted that there is a new chapter in OTT with Starr gone.

A woman who went by the name Hannah tweeted, “My head is full, but my abuser is no tweeting about OTT wrestling vacating their championship. You’re in danger of putting another abuser right in Starr’s place.”

She then tweeted photos of bruises on her legs saying that Devlin did that to her, and said she also had bruises on her back and butt that she didn’t want to post online.

WWE said, “We take any allegation of this nature very seriously and are looking into the matter.”

Devlin, nor any of the wrestlers named aside from Starr had not said anything publicly on the various charges.

Many of the other cases involve guys coming on to women who didn’t want it but would be inappropriate behavior, and in some cases such as trainer/student or veteran/rookie, in some cases power issues involved, or inappropriate messages sent through texting or social media. In some cases, particularly involving people with power over careers and young women getting started, like in most any form of entertainment, this is going to exist but it shouldn’t exist. In some higher profile industries it has come out and huge names in major entertainment industries have been forced out of the business by stories.

EVOLVE CLOSES ITS DOORS Details are still not known, but Evolve/WWN is said to be finished and it is believed its library and other assets were sold to WWE, but neither side has confirmed or denied the transaction. However, Gabe Sapolsky did send out a message to the Evolve core roster telling them that there are no more plans to run shows and that the core roster secret social page is shutting down. He said that for those in the group he feels you have a good future in the business, it’s not the end of the road, just taking a different path from a fork in the road. Evolve/WWN had not sent out refunds until recently for the canceled WrestleMania week shows due to the company’s financial issues. In April they had stated that they would refund all money but said that it would take some time, so they’ve acknowledged the issues. On 6/18, Sapolsky wrote, “We just got an update from Etix. They’ve made some refunds. The rest will be made in the next week or two. They are working on them and everyone will be refunded. My deepest apologies it is taking this long. I’m not going to make any excuses, but I assure you this has been the foremost thing on our minds and we are doing everything we can to get this done as quickly as possible. I understand if you are angry and upset. You will be made whole if you are owed a refund. Be safe & well.” .

BRING BACK THE UNIVERSE WWE is making plans for a return to live events at arenas with crowds. Nothing is definite because nobody knows what’s going to be going on in two months and what places will be open and what restrictions there will be. Vince McMahon does want SummerSlam to be held before a live audience, which would be August, likely not in Boston, although the date could be moved to September if it’s easier to be allowed to return to arena events.

BACKLASH CASUALTIES While Backlash was considered an all round success given the circumstances of everything that has come up over the last few weeks, it was not without its setbacks as two key talent came away with injuries.

Samoa Joe sustained a concussion in the falls count anywhere match with Kevin Owens, said to come from a shot to the head during the opening minutes.

Considering the ladder match had a lot of stunts for a show held behind closed doors, Jeff Hardy and Sheamus were said to both be banged up, but ok the day after.

Sami Zayn was written out per his own request, not feeling that the current situation was doing him any good and feeling uncomfortable with the set up of carrying on in the midst of the pandemic. He dropped the WWE Intercontinental title to Daniel Bryan and is expected out until further notice. He joins the likes of Roman Reigns, the Usos, Naomi, Walter, Pete Dunne, Kyle O'Reilly, much of NXT UK and others.

WON Ratings:
Sheamus vs Cesaro - SmackDown 6/12 - ***¾

Corbin vs Crews
- Backlash 6/14 - **¼
Heavy Machinery vs Miz & Morrison
- Backlash 6/14 - **½
Kevin Owens vs Samoa Joe
- Backlash 6/14 - **¾
Bryan vs Zayn
- Backlash 6/14 - ****
Asuka vs Baszler
- Backlash 6/14 - ***¼
Mysterios vs Angel & Humberto
- Backlash 6/14 - ***
Sonya vs Mandy
- Backlash 6/14 - **
McIntyre vs Orton
- Backlash 6/14 - ***½
Hardy vs Sheamus
- Backlash 6/14 - ***¾

Orton vs Ricochet
- RAW 6/15 - ***½

TV Ratings:
SmackDown 6/12 - 2.04 million viewers
RAW 6/15 - 1.89 million viewers
NXT 6/17 - 0.60 million viewers
 

Stojy

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I've finally caught up on all the shows, enjoying following along with this. Continue to like how you're keeping us informed with real world events as per above, and would like to see these have more of an impact on some of your booking (like the Sami Zayn situation here). Considering the freshness of it at the moment, the angle involving Ziggler and the hacker really has my eye, so good job on fleshing that one out so far.

Also really hoping we actually get to vote on the title challenger for NXT's GAB. Solid stuff in here overall mate, hopefully I can keep up and give you some more detailed comments soon.
 
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DTP

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Monday Night RAW #1413: - June 22, 2020
"Championship Monday"
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
FOUR WEEKS FROM THE HORROR SHOW AT EXTREME RULES!
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WWE Main Event #404June 26, 2020

- WWE United States Champion Andrade (with Zelina Vega) def. Zack Ryder with the Hammerlock DDT following a distraction from Zelina. (5:45)
- Liv Morgan def. Sarah Logan (with Ruby Riott) with the ObLIVion following an unintentional collision between the Riott Squad members. (6:13)


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A video package aired, promoting the night ahead. It was Championship Monday on the USA Network, with two major WWE championships up for grabs! The WWE World Championship and RAW Women's Championship would both be at stake, with a dream match for the WWE Universe to be expected between the champion Drew McIntyre and his challenger Kevin Owens. Meanwhile, the rivalry would peak when the champion Asuka defended her crown against Shayna Baszler in a Submission match. A 'Tale of the Tape' series of graphics accompanied each of the four combatants - as tonight Monday Night RAW was the sight for Championship Monday!

The opening video package aired, cutting to the WWE Performance Center for Monday Night RAW! Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian welcomed the WWE Universe to this Championship Monday edition of Monday Night RAW - kicking things off with the Submission match.

A video package aired following Shayna Baszler's arrival to the ring inside the WWE Performance Center, setting the scene for tonight's Submission match for the RAW Women's Championship. Since her arrival, "the Queen of Spades" had been a one-woman wrecking crew of the entire Women's Division. Only unsuccessful at WrestleMania against Becky Lynch by roll-up, Baszler was driven to add the RAW Women's gold to her growing list of accolades - but when opportunity knocked, Asuka capitalized. "The Empress of Tomorrow" would win the Money in the Bank briefcase and go on to be awarded the title from "the Man". Naturally, Shayna grew even more violent with every passing week. Having hospitalized Vanessa Borne, broken the arm of Kairi Sane, and even threatened the pregnant Becky Lynch, Baszler went into Backlash with a head full of steam - only to be given a taste of her own medicine. For the first time in her WWE career, Baszler tapped: but tonight, she had vowed never to let it happen again!

1) Asuka (c) def. Shayna Baszler in a Submission match to retain the RAW Women's Championship (17:25) [THROUGH THREE BREAKS]
- "The Queen of Spades" was too furious to allow the formality of the customary pre-match ring introductions, immediately engaging Asuka with a series of rights and lefts. The RAW Women's Champion telegraphed it and fired back - both women going blow for blow! The WWE Universe watched with anticipation as Shayna Baszler struck Asuka with the Baszler Rush - when Asuka cut her off with the hip attack! A second one went blocked into an atomic drop by the challenger, who hit the ropes for a soccer kick, just to have "the Empress of Tomorrow" sweep the leg from under her with a kick! Through the ropes landed Baszler on the ringside floor, when a diving knee strike from the apron took out Baszler. The Japanese sensation swaggered at ringside following a strong start.
- The RAW Women's Champion refused to be taken lightly by Shayna Baszler, as she maintained a headscissors on the ground. Baszler wrestled free into a side headlock, but Asuka worked back to their feet and dropped down into a leapfrog. Another hip attack went foreshadowed by "the Queen of Spades", but a Switchblade Kick stunned the challenger! Asuka attempted a single-legged Boston crab, but Baszler wrestled out using her swift technical prowess. With a knee strike to the gut, a soccer kick took Asuka down hard - when Baszler followed with mounted palm strikes! Asuka was able to fight her off, when Baszler applied a double wristlock. Asuka made it to the ropes quick, but Baszler would follow suit with more grounded strikes. A sequence of deadlift gutwrenches saw Asuka hurled overhead into a suplex, when Baszler targeted the ankle with stomps. Asuka was able to fight with an enzuigiri, but Baszler applied a rolling kneebar! The champ was thought to be done, but she made it to the ropes!
- Shayna Baszler maintained pressure on the foot with a twisting ankle hold applied. Asuka repeatedly tried to kick the persistent "Queen of Spades" away, but she would maintain the hold without fail. "The Submission Savant" applied a heel hook intensifying the situation, but thankfully "the Empress of Tomorrow" was able to grab the bottom rope! Baszler grinned through her mouthguard, before refocusing her attention on the arm. As the black tape on her elbow suggested from Backlash, Baszler's arm was not one-hundred percent, following being the recipient of an elbow stomp. Baszler started to run her mouth, treading on the fingers of the RAW Women's Champion and teasing the lethal stomp. Yet it would prove to be a mistake as Asuka rolled through with a flying cross-armbreaker! Shayna was in trouble, despite her best efforts to escape. Taken down twice, Baszler would hoist her up for a powerbomb - sending the champ into the corner with a buckle bomb!
- Shayna Baszler now had Asuka wrestled to the canvas with a cross-armbreaker of her own, though much like "the Submission Savant" had done minutes earlier, the RAW Women's Champion would hoist Baszler up upside down and plant her face first! A running hip attack against the ropes stunned Baszler, and a spin kick knocked the challenger down. "The Queen of Spades" was stunned, barely able to remain vertical - when the Asuka Lock was applied! Shayna tried to fight it as best as she could, able to roll backwards into the Kirifuda Clutch. An inverse of the closing moments from Backlash, Shayna was compelled to not make the same mistake - but Asuka would roll onto her front and wisely slip out from under her! A legsweep saw the champ miss an enzuigiri - when Shayna stomped on the hand. The lethal elbow stomp narrowly missed, and Asuka capitalized with a swift Octopus Stretch reverse - taking Shayna down into a seated position. The innovative hold left her with no choice but to tap out!

"The Empress of Tomorrow" could not believe the outcome herself, as the referee rushed to raise her hand. Shayna Baszler had been defeated again, in her own domain of the Submission match! Asuka secured the RAW Women's Championship she had fought valiantly to retain, screaming to the camera in Japanese. Championship Monday was off to a roaring start, though Asuka refused to be removed from her mantle over the RAW Women's Division.

︾︾︾

Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian again welcomed the WWE Universe to Championship Monday, on a night where outside of the WWE World Championship being at stake - we would bear witness to the tiebreaking 'Anything You Can Do, We Can Do Better' challenge - when the Street Profits and the Viking Raiders met in the Decathlon. Plus, strange bedfellows would share a team when Randy Orton and Bobby Lashley meet Ricochet and Cedric Alexander; and the WWE 24/7 Championship would be at stake in a Fatal 4-Way match!

  • WWE World Championship - Drew McIntyre (c) vs Kevin Owens
  • Randy Orton and Bobby Lashley vs Ricochet and Cedric Alexander
  • 'Anything You Can Do, We Can Do Better' - The Tiebreaker - Decathlon - The Viking Raiders (2) vs The Street Profits (2)
  • Dominik Mysterio vs Humberto Carrillo
  • WWE 24/7 Championship - Fatal 4-Way match - Akira Tozawa (c) vs R-Truth vs Shelton Benjamin vs Riddick Moss
︾︾︾

The Scotsman to Beat
Kayla Braxton
was standing by backstage with the WWE World Champion Drew McIntyre. Mentally in the zone, "the Scottish Terminator" wanted to ask Kayla if she smelled what was in the atmosphere tonight. It was fate, and it was destiny, and it called out to Kevin Owens. Drew considered KO a remarkable athlete who had worked his way up through this industry without relent. He was no slouch, a former WWE Universal Champion in his own right. But he too realized how long it had been since he had risen to the mountaintop! Drew had little doubt the Canadian would bring his A-game, because he proved last week he was not letting this opportunity slip through his fingers. McIntyre claimed this was the type of opportunities he craved, that he longed for the competition and the hunger of a challenger. As WWE World Champion, it was his task to be the man to beat - and to welcome allcomers as they tried to beat him. Tonight at Championship Monday, the Scotsman was driven to overcome "the Prize Fighter".


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A 'Did You Know?' graphic aired, informing us that the free version of the WWE Network was available now. With no credit card required for signing up, this version boasted over 15,000 WWE titles including RAW, SmackDown, NXT, and RAW Talk - immediately following Monday Night RAW.

Ground Rules
Bobby Lashley
listened to his advisor MVP as he psyched himself up in the dressing room. "The All Mighty" was given a motivating chat from "the Franchise Playa", who verbally drilled into his head the humiliating upset Lashley suffered against Ricochet over a month ago. Lana sat with the Money in the Bank briefcase, asking why her husband had to go through with the match tonight. She knew exactly how scary Randy Orton could be, having seen what he'd done to Edge not once but twice. MVP bickered back that nobody could stop "their" man, prompting yet another quarrel between the two about the safety and competence of the Money in the Bank briefcase holder. Lashley hushed them up, claiming "the Viper" wouldn't dare do a damn thing out of step tonight - which was all well, until Randy Orton appeared behind him with a smile. Orton advised Bob comfort his wife while he could, but that wouldn't change what he could make happen if push came to shove tonight.

Lana grew uncomfortable and wished to hide behind her husband, as MVP got between Bobby Lashley and Randy Orton. An intense face-off saw "the All Mighty" ask what "the Apex Predator" had in mind, bringing him to suggest that one dumb move could cost him big. With a smirk, the Money in the Bank briefcase holder questioned how he might go about that, goading Orton and asking him what might happen if he struck first. "The Viper" grinned back, telling his partner the ground rules for their tag team match tonight. If Bob did so much as to look at him funny, Orton wasn't afraid to take him down with an RKO no different than the one he fed him two weeks ago. Even worse, with his wife sobbing for mercy - she and their puppet MVP would be forced to witness Lashley get his head Punt kicked off his shoulders no different than a pigskin. That, was what Randy had in mind. Lashley chuckled, but looked back and urged him that sounded fine to him - but warned Orton not to choke like he did against Drew McIntyre at Backlash!

︾︾︾

Rey Mysterio joined Dominik Mysterio in the corridor, as "the Legendary Luchador" tried going over stategy with his son headed into his first ever singles match. Dom smiled telling his father how he had been filling him with knowledge all week long! Asking when he would take a break, his Dad laughed. Rey knew he did well last week and at Backlash - but a singles match was a different game. Against a turncoat Benedict Arnold like Humberto Carrillo - they had no idea what they could expect with La Invasíon around. Dom knew Rey had reason to be concerned. "La Estrella" knew everything about him, much like Dom knew everything about Carrillo. They were bros once, tighter than Rey could know! But that would be Humberto's downfall. Forced to smile and nod along, Rey wished his son luck and told him he wouldn't fill his head with anymore advice. He turned to leave, but Dominik turned his father around and gave him a quick hug - Los Mysterios still on the same page, though the rookie wished to learn from his own experience.
︾︾︾

Following discussion from Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton, a video package aired recapping Seth Rollins and his Church presenting 'the Funeral of Aleister Black' one week ago. "The Monday Night Messiah" gave a eulogy to Aleister Black, only for the man himself to return. Eerier than ever before, with an eyepatch shielding his injured eye "the Anti-Hero" emerged from the shadows taking out each and every one of his Disciples one by one. Down went Akam, and down went both RAW Tag Team Champions Theory and Murphy - leaving only Black and Seth Rollins. Face-to-face, "the Appropriator of Habit" was back to reak havoc on "the Messiah" who stole his sight. A graphic followed, promoting a special appearance from the man himself. Aleister Black would address the Church of Rollins - up next!

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An advertisement aired, promoting the fifth episode of the Limited Series Event - 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride'. "Chapter 5: Revelations" was streaming now, exclusively on the WWE Network.

Like Blood Brothers
The lights went out over the WWE Performance Center, and with a creek rose Aleister Black from the stage. With one eye on display, "the Appropriator of Habit" made a powerful return to Monday Night RAW last week, when he gatecrashed his own funeral. Dressed for competition, with an eye covering or not, it was apparent that Black was not frightened of whatever sinister fate awaited him as he emerged in the ring. Aleister held the microphone close as he knelt before the WWE Universe on-hand. Aleister claimed that he was blessed to have this moment to once again stand in this ring. For a short period of time, he felt weakness, for the idea of his future between the ropes had fallen into question. This nasty business with Mr. Rollins had grown all the more bitter, and all the more dramatic. It had cost him the ability to see using his right eye, but it had also enabled him to seek knowledge. Detailing the relationship he had with Seth Rollins, himself and "the Monday Night Messiah" were closer than he initially thought.

Aleister Black mused that there had to be reason for Seth Rollins to wish so vehemently for him to join the Church, and what it took was a career-threatening injury to be raised with such an epiphany. Himself and "the Monday Night Messiah" were like blood brothers, because they each gave every bit of life and spirit they had to this combat sport - they just shared differing philosophies. Black ginned knowing this now, saying had he known this sooner, he may have entertained such an idea and joined his band of Disciples. Black could have been another in a line of foot soldiers for Seth to run rampant on "Monday Night Rawlins" - but it was too late for that, and there was no turning back. Black claimed there was no excusing what Mr. Rollins had done, because while all he could see was blurred vision with one eye closed, unfortunately for "the Messiah" was the fact that he could still fight. Black claimed Seth had ran on long enough, but it was high time he received karma for the martyr he had become.

Aleister Black reiterated that now he and Seth Rollins were to meet once again - An Eye for An Eye! "The Appropriator of Habit" prepared to await the Church's response, when Seth Rollins came to the rampway moments later. Unimpressed and flanked by his Disciples - the RAW Tag Team Champions Theory and Murphy stood either side of their leader, as Akam peered over his shoulder. Seth cackled at the thought of Aleister being serious, noting how he'd said it himself - he was 50% blind, yet he thought he could go one-on-one with the great "Monday Night Messiah!" Rollins laughed the thought off, telling Black any hope he ever had of getting the match he wanted was long gone. Seth told Aleister it was in his best interest he stay stowed away in the shadows where it was safe, because another encounter would see him lose even more of his sight. With an evil grin, the leader of the Church told Aleister to stand down - calling him his little brother!

"The Monday Night Messiah" threatened to bring his Church down to the ring as a reminder to Aleister Black for the ugly things they did to him, but Black called the Church's bluff. Adopting a seated position with his legs crossed, "the Appropriator of Habit" informed Seth Rollins he would do whatever it took for his prophecy to go fulfilled. An amused Rollins was surprised to hear this, and proclaimed that he planned to call Aleister's bluff. Seth knew all too well that he had never been one to back down from a challenge, even if it was a stupid decision to be made. With that, Seth planned to test such a prophecy: because if "the Anti-Hero" wished to step into the ring one-on-one with "the Monday Night Messiah" again...he'd have to pledge his allegiance, by taking on each of his Disciples. Challenging Black here and now to prove his worth by running the gauntlet against his Church, the man with an eyepatch accepted the challenge. Seth cackled once more, declaring him a foolish man - sending Akam down to the ring to get things underway!

2.1) Aleister Black def. Akam in a Gauntlet match (2:20)
- "The Appropriator of Habit" wished to fulfil the prophecy he envisioned for the future of so-called blood brother Seth Rollins. To do so, Aleister Black first had to endure the three Disciples from the Church. Seth Rollins and RAW Tag Team Champions Theory and Murphy watched from the top of the rampway as Akam immediately cornered Aleister with body blows. A biel throw launched him from one side of the ring to the other, though Black would immediately come back fighting with a striking combination! A discus back elbow rocked Akam to a knee, when a jumping knee strike stunned him. Black attempted the Meteora from the top rope, just for Akam to catch him with a Super Collider powerbomb! Akam planned to make short work of the man with the eye covering - but Black fired back with a roundhouse kick! Akam was stunned, when a rolling legsweep took one-half of AOP down. "The Equalizer" evaded a bicycle knee strike, but Black escaped a spinebuster and sent the big man down with Black Mass for the three count!

The WWE Universe came to their feet in shock, as Aleister Black returned to a seated position on the canvas. With his legs folded and arms outstretched, "the Appropriator of Habit" was still as strong as he was with two eyes of vision! Eyepatch or not, Aleister pointed towards the Church gathered on the rampway and awaited his next challenge. Seth Rollins looked to Murphy and urged "the Juggernaut" to shut Black down! The Gauntlet would resume - next.


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2.2) Aleister Black def. RAW Tag Team Champion Murphy in a Gauntlet match (6:24)
- "The Anti-Hero" shockingly put Akam down in no time, but as Monday Night RAW returned from the break, Murphy managed to put up a fight against Aleister Black. One-half of the RAW Tag Team Champions struck with a sit-out powerbomb, as Seth Rollins and Theory watched from the rampway. Black kept looking to fight "the Juggernaut", who cut him off with a striking combination capping off with a knee strike! The Aussie looked to target the eye of Black, as "the Monday Night Messiah" let out a cackle - but "the Appropriator of Habit" fired back with a brainbuster! Aleister followed with the Iron Octopus applied, but Murphy was able to escape out and two the floor. A triangle moonsault from the second rope wiped the champ out, when Aleister sent him back inside for a snapmare into a double footstomp! Black looked to put away his second Disciple of the Gauntlet, when Murphy evaded it and knocked Black loopy with the wrists-clenched knee strike - but Murphy's Law saw Black respond with Black Mass to take the win!

Career rivals as they were, Aleister Black would take his second victory against another of Seth Rollins' Disciples! Down went Akam, and down went Murphy, as "the Appropriator of Habit" once again assumed a seated position. His legs crossed, Aleister glared with one eye towards "the Monday Night Messiah". Coaching Theory and relieving him of the RAW Tag Team Championship, Seth advised his youngest Disciple to put an end to the Gauntlet. Psyched up, he would race to the ring!

2.3) Aleister Black def. RAW Tag Team Champion Theory in a Gauntlet match by disqualification (2:34)
- There was but one more obstacle separating Aleister Black from his prophecy of meeting blood brother Seth Rollins one more time, as "the Monday Night Messiah" watched intently from the rampway. His youngest Disciple Theory planned to hold down the Church for his leader, though his inexperience would see the RAW Tag Team Champion narrowly avoid the Black Mass early! Blocking a kick into a rolling kneebar, he would make it to the ropes before catching "the Anti-Hero" off-guard with a rolling blockbuster from the corner! Theory was on the attack and delivered a snap suplex, but the mouth of the youngster star Theory's spinout torture rack powerbomb reversed into a bridging German suplex! "The Appropriator of Habit" flew with a Meteora from the top rope, before bringing Theory up for the Black Mass. Disciple victim number three was moments away... when Rollins jumped his blood brother from behind!

Prophecy Fulfilled
Aleister Black had been mere moments from disposing of Theory to bring this Gauntlet to an end, had it not been for Seth Rollins! Armed with his Disciple's RAW Tag Team Championship gold, Seth Rollins put the boots to "the Appropriator of Habit" - soon eyeing him up for a shot from the gold. Even with one eye, Black rolled out of the way, and a springboard moonsault from the second rope would catch "the Monday Night Messiah" by surprise! Black knelt beside Seth and began to pound away at his blood brother's eye - when Theory would save the day with a super kick upside the head! Seth ordered Theory to restrain his foe as Seth promptly tore the covering from Black's face. Exposing a disturbingly black eye with a diluted pupil on "the Anti-Hero", Black would fight back! Seth was stunned, as Theory received Black Mass - though Rollins would run for the hills. Now alone - Black stood with one eye blacker than the other. His prophecy was to come true, with a future match in store against "the Messiah!"

︾︾︾

Following discussion from Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian, a video package aired recapping the string of 'Anything You Can Do, We Can Do Better' challenges exchanged between the Street Profits and the Viking Raiders. Once allies, now the two tag teams had endured competitions ranging from bowling to axe-throwing and from basketball to mini-golf. Now tied two points against one another, tonight was the tiebreaking challenge. Erik and Ivar of "the Modern Day Vikings" were ready for "the Frat Boys" as they prepared for the Decathlon - up next.

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A graphic aired, confirming the first official match signed for Extreme Rules - live, exclusively on the WWE Network in less than four weeks on Sunday, July 19 - Aleister Black would have the opportunity to exact his prophecy against Seth Rollins.
  • Extreme Rules - Aleister Black vs Seth Rollins

Preparing for the Decathlon
Earlier today, at a local gymnasium in downtown Orlando, Florida the Street Profits were in the process of changing for the finalé of the 'Anything You Can Do, We Can Do Better' challenges. Montez Ford considered the zaniness of their rivalry with the Viking Raiders to Angelo Dawkins, and how these wacky escapades felt crazier and more unpredictable by the week! 'Ang questioned what 'Tez's point was, to which he questioned whether they were becoming cartoon characters. Dawkins laughed but told Ford he'd been on the smoke for too long - but that was alright. After today, their series of challenges with "the Modern Day Vikings" would end, and they could look forward to once again going out on a limb and recapturing the RAW Tag Team Championships - with no interruptions! Suddenly, locker doors across the dressing room were heard clanging shut - revealing that the Viking Raiders were changing there too! Dressed to impress in the Decathlon, Ivar still chomped into a turkey leg while Ivar disputed "the Frat Boys'" claim.

As the four in gym shorts and headbands got into each other's grills, tempers once again flared between the two teams. Erik, Ivar, Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins' differences could not be any more serious to the foursome - and in conversation with one another, the stakes were made even higher riding on today's Decathlon challenge! With both teams tied two-against-two, it was proposed that today's victorious team in the tiebreaker would be named number one contenders to the RAW Tag Team Championships! "The Modern Day Vikings" told "the Frat Boys" they'd see them on the field, but the Street Profits told the Viking Raiders: not if they'd see them first!

︾︾︾

The Families of Monday Nights
Seth Rollins
paced back and forth in the backstage corridor. Fuming to have witnessed Aleister Black not only overcome his three most loyal Disciples from the Church tonight, "the Monday Night Messiah" had Akam and the RAW Tag Team Champions Theory and Murphy line up to be dressed down. Seth questioned how loyal they were to his cause, questioning if they too had seen the killer instinct in the eyes of that psychopathic "One Eyed Man from Amsterdam". Theory tried to explain, but Murphy hushed him - though Seth told Murphy it was okay. Theory did not know much better, nor did he realize the fate that was about to befall Black. A gobsmacked "Juggernaut" listened as Seth patted Theory on the shoulder for a well-fought effort, even apologizing for costing him what would have undoubtedly been the biggest win of his young career. Grinning from ear to ear, the youngster accepted - when Seth gave his protegé a hug.

Slow clapping his way on-screen came WWE United States Champion Andrade. Accompanied by La Invasíon, Zelina Vega, Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo came face to face with the RAW Tag Team Champions and "the Equalizer". "El Capo" was amused how handily Aleister Black beat them, though Seth Rollins claimed it was a fluke. Andrade claimed La Invasíon would never let such an embarrassing feat occur, though Seth maintained in their second meeting, Theory would put "the Appropriator of Habit" out of his misery! The youngest Disciple was baffled, as Seth declared that Theory would do just that next week. Los Lotharios laughed behind Andrade, as they joked at the expense of Murphy for being outshone by "twinkle toes". "The Juggernaut" was annoyed, when Andrade bid the Church farewell - La Invasíon had their own business to attend to - when Humberto Carrillo took Dominik Mysterio down and out. The Church were left scowling, as animosity simmered beneath the surface.

  • Next week - RAW Tag Team Champion Theory vs Aleister Black

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'Champions with a Fighting Spirit' aired, presented by Modelo. Setting the gold standard for authentic Mexican beer since 1925, for those with a Fighting Spirit - a video package aired recapping the momentous 179-day reign for the current WWE United States Champion Andrade. After defeating Rey Mysterio at a WWE Live event in Madison Square Garden, "El Capo" had gone on to defend the title against allcomers, and even form a new family named La Invasíon.

3) Humberto Carrillo def. Dominik Mysterio (5:38)
- Since making his WWE in-ring debut back at Backlash, where he and his Rey Mysterio were victorious against Los Lotharios, Dominik Mysterio was undefeated. Former friend-turned-ally of La Invasíon Humberto Carrillo wished to be the one to end that record. "La Estrella" was arrogant, allowing Dominik to impress from a dropdown and leapfrog. Mysterio bombarded Humberto with dropkicks, when a springboard crossbody scored! Dom swaggered like his father's late friend Eddie Guerrero. Carrillo turned things around with a springboard roundhouse kick, and a turning moonsault plancha saw the newcomer get taken out! Humberto grounded and slapped him around, but his confidence cost him once Mysterio landed a code red! Dom looked for the 619, when the video screen showed Andrade, Angel Garza and Zelina Vega backstage - standing over Rey Mysterio. A distraught Dom was dropped with a springboard headbutt, and with a handful of tights, Carrillo stole it!

Humberto Carrillo stood tall over Dominik Mysterio with a snarl on his face, while the video screen showed the rest of La Invasíon continuing to stand dominantly over Rey Mysterio's carcass. "El Amante" grinned as Zelina Vega supervised with a calm demeanor. The WWE United States Champion would crouch down over his longtime adversary meanwhile, claiming to have warned "the Legendary Luchador" that this day would come. La Invasíon had offered Dom membership in their ranks - but instead, his son had chosen violence. "El Capo" declared that with Rey out of the picture, now the WWE Universe would see whether his son would sink...or swim! A parting stomp to the ribcage from Garza saw La Invasíon depart - leaving Carrillo laughing from afar at the beaten rookie.

︾︾︾

Restarting the Kevin Owens Show
Kevin Owens
warmed up in the hall, understanding fully the implications of the WWE World Championship opportunity tonight. "The Prize Fighter" bided his time with patience when joined by Charly Caruso. Kev explained to Charly that while he wished to be left alone, he wished to explain one thing. It had been three long years, since he last held the WWE Universal Championship. That title meant the world to him, but even he could admit it made him a terrible person. Owens claimed that a lot had changed since then, how the landscape of this business had changed much like he had matured as a human being. Now, he wanted to become World Champion to not only for his family; not just to prove to the rest of the WWE Universe he belonged to be mentioned in the same sentence as names such as The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin, Triple H and John Cena - but to prove to himself that he was worthy. As KO wished for peace of mind ahead of his match with a man he respected in Drew McIntyre, he declared that tonight 'the Kevin Owens Show' would get off and running once again.

︾︾︾

Backstage, Ricochet and Cedric Alexander concluded going over strategy. With a secret handshake, the two friends prepared for a tag team match of epic proportions. "The Future of Flight" and "Lumbar Legacy" were ready to meet strange bedfellows in Randy Orton and Bobby Lashley, who made separate walks to the arena on a splitscreen. How could "the Apex Predator" and "the All Mighty" co-exist? We would find out - next.

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An advertisement aired, promoting a schedule for tomorrow night. With 'WWE Backstage' set to be broadcast at 10PM Eastern on FS1, as hosted by Renee Young and Booker T; it would be preceded by WWE Royal Rumble 2008 - shown in its entirety at 7PM.

You Talk Too Much
Natalya
stood backstage, addressing the WWE Universe. Wanting to make the people understand until they had walked a mile in her shoes, they would never understand. She asked if anybody knew what pressure felt like being in the shadow of the Hart Family - she didn't think so. Nattie claimed over three months ago, she was approached by Liv for help. She wanted to prove she could stand on her own two feet - which told her everything. Liv wanted to leech her heritage and surpass her, because "'Mother Goose Nattie' didn't seem to mind". The truth was, she wasn't here to mentor anybody - she was here to take back the Women's Revolution and be "the Frontrunner". Bianca Belair confronted Nattie, claiming she ran her mouth a lot for somebody as slimy as her. Nattie scoffed, as "the EST" challenged her to a match. Scoffing at the sight of her, she claimed she'd take her on happily - next week. Bianca laughed as the Canadian departed, telling her her pink-and-black butt was gonna get whooped!

  • Next week - Bianca Belair vs Natalya
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4) Ricochet and Cedric Alexander def. Randy Orton and Bobby Lashley (with MVP and Lana) (7:58) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- While Randy Orton was victorious against Ricochet last week, he was humiliated by continued hijinks from the playfully spiteful Bobby Lashley. The Money in the Bank briefcase holder still wished to get even from an RKO received two weeks ago, as the strange bedfellows prepared for tag team competition. As Orton and Lashley argued about who to start, Ricochet and Cedric Alexander rushed the pair with stereo dropkicks. After sending "the Viper" from the ring, "Lumbar Legacy" and "the Future of Flight" connected with a series of strikes that wound knock "the All Mighty" silly on his feet! Lashley swung for a clothesline on Ricochet, who backflipped to evade it - and a springboard flatliner would see Cedric take him down for a near fall. Lashley rolled out into the arms of his wife Lana, as MVP again tried to separate Lashley from Orton!
- The early offense of Ricochet and Cedric Alexander continued, until "the One and Only" took Bobby Lashley down with a backflip kick into an enzuigiri. Randy Orton made the blind tag, and "the Apex Predator" capitalized with an inverted neckbreaker. Orton and "the All Mighty" showed some chemistry, as the Money in the Bank winner hurled Ricochet up for a scoop powerslam from Orton. Orton maintained a sleeper on "the One and Only" as Alexander looked for the tag, and finally after a powerbomb reversal, Ricochet tagged! Alexander ran hot with low dropkicks for Lashley. The Neutralyzer connected, when Lashley cut him off with a spinebuster. Bobby looked to tag Randy, but Orton left him high and dry! Walking out to the irritance of MVP and Lana, Lashley worked to fight off both opponents. A clothesline took Cedric down, when a handspring headscissors from Ricochet saw Lashley sent into the corner. Cedric delivered the Lumbar Check, when the 630 Senton allowed Ricochet to claim the win!

Randy Orton watched with a big smile on his face, witnessing Bobby Lashley fall to the combination of Ricochet and Cedric Alexander! The Money in the Bank winner had been beaten in a handicap match situation, though "the Future of Flight" and "Lumbar Legacy" would celebrate in the ring. MVP hit the ring and threw down his suit jacket, furious with the actions of "the Viper". As Orton continued to grin from the top of the rampway, Lana comforted her husband in the ring. Clenching his jaw, Lashley was furious and slammed his fist into the canvas. Orton had made a laughing stock of Lashley, much like Bobby had done Randy last week!

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Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian discussed how Championship Monday was unfolding, coming off of such an unpredictable result in the tag team match. Shifting gears to discuss the backstage assault earlier tonight however, the broadcast team brought up an update on the condition of Rey Mysterio. "The Legendary Luchador" was feared to have suffered two broken ribs as a result of the ambush from WWE United States Champion Andrade earlier tonight. They wished him a quick recovery, before pondering what had to be going through the mind of his son Dominik Mysterio.
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All Aboard the Good Brother Express
The O.C.
were backstage raving about how their future looked brighter than ever, when Charly Caruso approached them with curiosity. Harrassed by the eccentric Luke Gallows, Karl Anderson claimed while it was none of the broadcast journalist's business, KA and "the Big LG" knew that tonight was going to be a good night. Anderson confessed how it had been a long couple of months, how they had tried to go to WWE management in protest and got no justice in return. They had the bejeebus kicked out of them by a couple of old men in The Undertaker and Kane. Gallows added that he and KA were done with going on strike, they were finished with crying out for justice. From now on, he and Karl were nothing but straight shooters, and that meant Good Brothering daily and Good Brothering nightly! Anderson and Gallows hollered that tonight was the turning point they'd been waiting for! Charly questioned whether they had intentions to get involved in the WWE World Championship main event, the duo left dodging the question.


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A graphic aired, promoting tonight's edition of RAW Talk, immediately following Monday Night RAW. Hosted by Charly Caruso and Christian, tonight's special guests included Randy Orton and Bianca Belair. It all went down at 11:05 PM, exclusively on the WWE Network.

Don't Cross The Viper
Cutting to the backstage area, a wall of referees were set in place to separate the stewing egos of the smiling Randy Orton, and the sieging Bobby Lashley! MVP and Lana were also on hand, screaming at "the Apex Predator" for causing the humiliation of their man "the All Mighty" earlier tonight. As Lashley tried to charge his way through the barricade of humanity set forth in his way, the Money in the Bank briefcase holder screamed that he was going to get "the Viper" for this and ring his neck! Orton simply shrugged, having warned Lashley on the way in not to cross him! The hot-headed game between Orton and Lashley continued, with the veteran having caused Lashley's embarrassment tonight.

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5) Riddick Moss def. Akira Tozawa (c), R-Truth & Shelton Benjamin in a Fatal 4-Way match to capture the WWE 24/7 Championship (3:53)
- The WWE 24/7 Championship picture was as turbulent as ever. The four most recent champs went at it in a Fatal 4-Way match, where Akira Tozawa possessed the title of desire. "The Gold Standard" was desperate to recapture the gold, attacking Tozawa before the four participants even arrived; though a powerbomb would see R-Truth make the save! The Little Jimmy dropped Shelton to remove the veteran, but as "Truth" targeted Tozawa with right hands, Riddick Moss snuck into the ring with a fire extinguisher in hand! "So Smooth" blinded the veteran with the foam, but his roll-up attempt would see R-Truth and Shelton target him instead. With his hair and beard ungroomed, Moss snatched the title gold and planned to take off with it - just for Tozawa to soar with a diving senton from the top rope onto the three challengers! Inside, Shelton fought a German suplex and delivered the Paydirt - but Moss slipped in from behind and drilled him with the Smooth Sailing neckbreaker! Moss covered Tozawa to regain the title.

For His Kids
Emotionally, Riddick Moss could not even believe that he came out on top. Now a three-time WWE 24/7 Champion, "So Smooth" fought back tears as he reached out for the WWE 24/7 Championship across the ring and held it in his arms. Hugging it closely, the boyhood dream had now come true for Moss, who raised the gold high and paraded it around the ring! Akira Tozawa rolled out in defeat while R-Truth and Shelton Benjamin got into an argument at ringside, unable to comprehend how this match turned out. Moss made his way out of the WWE Performance Center with the title held high - when all of a sudden, Heath Slater came from behind with a steel chair shot to the spine! "The One-Man Rock Band" was no a contracted WWE Superstar, but seized the opportunity with a cover...Heath Slater becoming the WWE 24/7 Champion! Excitedly, the man in the "I Got Kids" shirt had to have done his children proud - energetically exiting the WWEPC with Shelton and Truth hot on his tail.

︾︾︾

Following discussion from Tom Phillips, Byron Saxton and Christian, a video package aired, promoting the main event for this special Championship Monday edition of Monday Night RAW. At Backlash, Drew McIntyre once again retained the WWE World Championship when he was able to overcome Randy Orton. It was a psychological battle, but "the Scottish Terminator" would add "the Viper's" name to a list of defeated men including Brock Lesnar, Big Show and Edge. Last week, Drew was invited onto 'the Kevin Owens Show', though he was quick to see through "the Prize Fighter's" true intentions. While the O.C. would interrupt setting up a tag team match, the Scotsman and the Canadian would come out victorious - when KO's intentions became all the more clear. A Stunner was all it took for Kev to confirm the belief of Drew McIntyre, who welcomed the challenge with a smile. Tonight, who would leave with the title?

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An advertisement aired, promoting the all-new free version of the WWE Network. Bringing the best in entertainment, with no credit card required, subscribers could gain access to over 15,000 available titles today.

The Winners Are...
The Viking Raiders
made their grand entrance to the field for the Decathlon, where in tonight's tiebreaking 'Anything You Can Do, We Can Do Better' challenge, the victors would be named number one contenders to the RAW Tag Team Championships. Erik and Ivar were prepared for whatever came ahead, when moments later out swaggered the Street Profits from the dressing room. With no fans in attendance, only a WWE referee was present to call this challenge down the middle. He declared that each team would pick five events to engage in. The action got underway with a 1600-meter dash chosen by "the Frat Boys", who won in shockingly easy fashion - as Montez Ford lapped Ivar multiple times! As the big guy continued to try and finish his lap in the background meanwhile, "the Modern Day Vikings" had chosen archery - and conversely, Erik overcame Angelo Dawkins.

In the second phase of the Decathlon, the Street Profits had declared that their specialty would be contested next: a game of flipcups. Winning handily, Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins were riding high on top of their game - when the Viking Raiders responded with a game close to their heart: sword-fighting! As Erik and Ivar revealed their weapons, 'Tez forfeited instantly out of fear before they had even begun! A montage aired, revealing Dawkins overcoming Ivar at hurdles - though the Viking Raiders argued that they won on account of barging through each and every hurdle! Erik would defeat 'Tez in a tug-of-war, as Ford was dragged mightily into a kiddy pool. Next came a dance-off, seeing three judges present for the proceedings on the field. Montez Ford danced to "Sexy Boy" by Shawn Michaels, whilst Ivar danced to the theme song of Fandango! The female judge called Ivar cute and promptly voted for "the Modern Day Vikings", but the two male judges picked "the Frat Boys!"

The Viking Raiders were victorious at pole vaulting, tying the teams once again. It all boiled down to the two final challenges - one chosen by the Street Profits, and one chosen by the Viking Raiders. "The Frat Boys" felt confident in voting shotput, which brought confidence to Erik. 'Ang took his turn, though as sweat dripped from Dawkins' brow waiting for Erik's turn, a distraction from 'Tez threw him off! The Profits celebrated with confidence, proclaiming this Decathlon theirs! Feeling they had earned bragging rights - Ivar smirked. The final challenge was "the Modern Day Vikings'" - choosing turkey leg-eating! A montage showed the confidence of "the Frat Boys" turn to horror, as the Vikings came out victorious. Celebrating loudly and veraciously, the WWE referee however reminded both teams that the winners were...both of them! Stunned, the teams protested the decision - though the official maintained that the teams remained tied after the Decathlon, 5-5! The two teams were furious - chasing the official from the field enraged!


  • Next week - Tag Team Match - Number One Contender's match - The Street Profits (2) vs The Viking Raiders (2)
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The main event had arisen in the WWE Performance Center. Kevin Owens made his cautious entry to the building he trained in to first become a WWE Superstar, looking around and nodding in preparation. "The Prize Fighter" had been to the top of the mountain before - a former WWE Universal Champion. Over three years following the conclusion of his last reign, tonight was KO's next big opportunity. Climbing into the ring, Owens looked around and let out a warcry to the select number of WWE Universe members in attendance, all behind the plexiglass in wait. Owens jogged on the spot, as the bagpipes soon began to play. Drew McIntyre arrived in pristine condition, with the WWE World Championship around his waist. Immediately raising the title high, "the Scottish Terminator" began his pace down to the ring, where he immediately went nose-to-nose with his challenger. Ring announcer Mike Rome set the scene with formal in-ring introductions - as the main event was coming up next!

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A graphic aired, revealing breaking news that next week on Monday Night RAW, Vince McMahon would personally grace the WWE Performance Center with his presence. But for what purpose would the WWE Chairman be present next week?

6) Drew McIntyre (c) def. Kevin Owens to retain the WWE World Championship (20:42) [THROUGH THREE BREAKS]
- The bell sounded getting this WWE World Championship main event underway. Both men bided their time, understanding the levity of the match. Drew McIntyre smiled towards Kevin Owens, but from the first collar-and-elbow tie-up, the ferocity of the challenger was shown as Kev slugged it out in the corner. The referee intruded to prevent an early disqualification, though it instead afforded the champ time to bring the haymakers to the challenger! "The Scottish Terminator" was admonished by the official , prompting Owens to strike back with a big headbutt. A series of lariats stunned the champ, but mudhole stomps would take him down in the corner. In search of a the Cannonball, Drew intercepted with a belly-to-belly suplex! Kipping back up to his feet, the Scotsman followed to ringside. The two brawled, when Owens delivered a drop toe hold sending him into the steel steps - and the Cannonball sandwiched the WWE World Champion against the barricade.
- Kevin Owens was in control, more stomps directed at Drew McIntyre in the corner. "The Scottish Terminator" struck back with a high knee, and a diving clothesline from the second rope connected. The Scotsman followed Owens to the apron and battled him up to the top rope. Looking for the inverted Alabama slam, Owen landed out on his feet and attempted the Stunner! The champ defended with a big boot, but Owens would catch the champ off-guard with a codebreaker. Owens looked for the Pop-Up Powerbomb - but Drew slung himself full-force at KO with the Glasgow Kiss! McIntyre grinned as Owens collapsed to the canvas, soon drilling him with the Celtic Cross. "The Prize Fighter" hung in the match with vigilance, as Kev fought a spinebuster attempt and took the champ down hard with Argentine backbreaker. Owens lined up a second Cannonball in the corner - but did not see the champ catching him in his plans! With a deadlift, McIntyre grew back to his feet and planted KO with a sit-out powerbomb - for a near fall!
- Drew McIntyre angled for a superplex on Kevin Owens, just to have the challenger send the WWE World Champion crashing to the canvas. The Bullfrog Splash connected for a close near fall - but the momentum favored "the Prize Fighter". Owens struck Drew with clotheslines, when a block from the Scotsman saw Owens strick with the Super Kick! The Pop-Up Powerbomb was attempted, but "the Scottish Terminator" reversed into the Future Shock DDT - only getting a near fall. Both men grew to their feet and began throwing haymakers. McIntyre struck with a lariat, but another desperation super kick rocked the champ. The Stunner drilled McIntyre - but KO was unable to capitalize! The O.C. raced down to the ring looking to meddle in McIntyre and Owens' business, but as Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows put the boots to the champ, KO and McIntyre would team up to fight "the Good Brothers" away! The referee was prepared to call for the bell, only to be stopped in his tracks by both Drew and Owens! This war looked to continue!
- Drew McIntyre had Kevin Owens at his mercy on the apron with clubbing forearms to the chest of the challenger. "The Scottish Terminator" delivered the superplex on KO, yet the resilience of the challenger continued. "The Prize Fighter" battled upward against the WWE World Champion, but the Glasgow Kiss rocked the challenger. 'Claymore Country' appeared near, though Owens sidestepped it and attempted another Stunner, just to be blocked. Owens broke free from the Future Shock DDT and sidestepped the Claymore Kick attempt into the Pop-Up Powerbomb connected, but the Scotsman miraculously powered out. Owens could not believe it, arguing with the decision! In disbelief, KO pondered what would put the champ down for the count, as he planned to hoist Drew up. With a Package Piledriver in mind, Owens was ready to capture the title that had eluded him - but the champ backdropped out into a sunset flip. McIntyre ducked a clothesline - and the Claymore Kick put KO down for the count!

The WWE World Championship had been retained after an instant classic between Drew McIntyre and Kevin Owens! Barely able to stand, "the Scottish Terminator" would have his hand raised in the corner, as he sat with the gold on his lap. KO shook off the lingering effects of being taken to 'Claymore Country', as the Scotsman celebrated with the WWE Universe - soon being faced by "the Prize Fighter". A disappointed Canadian finally confronted the champ, offering him a handshake. The Scot was cautious but accepted the show of respect from the challenger, as KO raised McIntyre's hand high before departing the ring. Just when the coast was thought to be clear, the familiar sound of organs rang out...

Don't Want None
With the O.C. reemerging, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson were not alone this time...as AJ Styles returned to Monday Night RAW! McIntyre watched in awe, as "the Phenomenal One" laid his eyes on the champ. His intentions were clear, as he and AJ exchanged words from afar. After months of exile, it appeared that "the Face Who Ran the Place" was back to reclaim what he thought was rightfully his!


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RAW Talk #14: June 22, 2020
- Following the shocking conclusion to Monday Night RAW's Championship Monday, co-hosts Charly Caruso and Christian took the time to discuss the classic WWE World Championship defense of Drew McIntyre against Kevin Owens, and the return of AJ Styles.
- Bianca Belair was introduced as tonight's first guest, wanting to discuss the show. "The EST" responded affirmative to the efforts of both Asuka and Shayna Baszler in their Submission match for the RAW Women's Championship, but believed that the best woman won. With gold in mind for the future, Bianca claimed she would not back down if "the Empress of Tomorrow" came knocking on her door tomorrow. When asked about her confrontation backstage with Natalya earlier tonight, Bianca believed the Canadian was frustrated after years of being seen as "Mother Goose", but after what she did to Liv Morgan, Belair planned on making her into "the Ugly Duckling" she'd always been seen as, next week on Monday Night RAW.
- Randy Orton would join the show to discuss his evening, and how he was responsible for infuriating Bobby Lashley. "The Viper" saw it as getting even with "the All Mighty" after the Money in the Bank briefcase holder tried to embarrass him last week - but he had been done dirtier than what Bob had done tonight. Orton explained how he didn't even dislike him, though he pitied Lana for having to waste her time with a man like her husband! "The Apex Predator" was clear in that he did not see Lashley ever being capable to support the WWE as a World Champion, cash-in or not - and that came from a legend like himself. He would make a veiled threat towards Christian after being questioned about what his plans were when Edge inevitably made his return - but before Orton could finish his retort, out came Bobby Lashley. Referees fled the scene as chaos consumed the set of RAW Talk in its' closing moments.


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NXT #410 - June 24, 2020
Full Sail University - Orlando, Florida
TWO WEEKS FROM NXT GREAT AMERICAN BASH!

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NXT UK #98: Hidden Gems - June 25, 2020

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- James Drake and Zack Gibson def. Flash Morgan Webster and Mark Andrews with the Ticket to Ride in an NXT UK Tag Team Championship Tournament Semi-Final match) [NXT UK #23 - JAN 9, 2019]
- Randy Savage (c) def. Shawn Michaels (with Sensational Sherri) with a diving crossbody to retain the WWE Championship. (16:21) [UK RAMPAGE '92 - APR 19, 1992]
- Toni Storm def. Dakota Kai with Storm Zero. (7:17) [NXT UK #6 - NOV 7, 2018]


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Full Sail University was electric with a selection of NXT Universe members chanting the titular three letters of "the Black and Gold Brand", as Vic Joseph welcomed us to NXT. One week away from the return of the Great American Bash, he sent us to Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix, who got us kicked off with a bang!

1) Ever-Rise def. Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher (c) to capture the NXT Tag Team Championship (6:22)
- After last week's edition of 'Ever-Rise Live', the NXT Tag Team Champions were prepared to make short work of Ever-Rise. Matt Riddle cut Chase Parker off with a monkey flip sending him directly into a forearm smash from Timothy Thatcher! "The Original Bro" and "the Mad Scientist" teamed up with a belly-to-belly suplex into Riddle's knee strike for Matt Martel, when a blind tag saw Riddle cut off by a drop toe hold into the leaping elbow drop from Parker! The challengers cut Riddle off with a criss-cross wrist-lock slam and cornered him, until Riddle escaped a powerbomb from Parker and tagged in Thatcher, who rushed in with European uppercuts for all! A guillotine choke took down Martel, who clung to the ropes, causing the referee to pry him off. Riddle tagged and looked to cool his partner off - but Thatcher responded hostility - taking Riddle with a lariat! Abandoning Riddle, as Ever-Rise delivered a Samoan drop into the diving blockbuster - though the champ kicked out. He fought back, just to be cut off with the Sweet Taste!

In what had to be the biggest upset in recent memory on "the Black and Gold Brand", new NXT Tag Team Champions had been crowned - and the combination of Ever-Rise could not be more thrilled! Matt Martel hugged Chase Parker, the two themselves in disbelief at such an outcome being possible. Matt Riddle rolled to the corner, forced to witness the obnoxious French-Canadians come together with a grandiose hug and pose. In a highly unanticipated event, "the Original Bro" had to be furious at whatever happened with Timothy Thatcher!

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Graphics aired, with Mauro Ranallo, Beth Phoenix and Vic Joseph discussing what else was coming up tonight. With the fan-vote poll active on WWE.com, and with one week remaining until its deadline, tonight the Velveteen Dream and Finn Bálor would state their cases to the NXT Universe. Ahead of her rematch with Charlotte Flair, NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai would choose a partner to combat "the Queen's" henchwomen the Iiconics; "Absolute" Ricky Starks" would make his long-anticipated NXT debut against Isaiah "Swerve" Scott; and Damian Priest would make his return coming off losing the NXT North American Championship.
  • Finn Bálor and Velveteen Dream state their cases to the NXT Universe
  • The Iiconics vs NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai and TBA
  • Damian Priest makes his return to NXT
  • Isaiah Scott vs Ricky Starks
  • Aliyah vs Xia Li

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One Bad Day
Following a replay showing the unexpected NXT Tag Team Championship change moments ago, footage rolled from during the commercial break. Timothy Thatcher paced back and forth in the hall backstage at Full Sail University, when confronted by a seething Matt Riddle. The former champs exchanged words, as "the Original Bro" questioned what had gotten into Timmy! Riddle was furious to have been left to fend for himself - but suddenly, Tim struck hard with a right hand! The two exchanged haymakers, prompting a herd of officials and backstage assistants to rush in and intercept the two. Pulling the so-called friends and partners apart, Tim was like a rabid dog; and Riddle refused to back down! All it took was one bad day to tear a tag team apart.

Vic Joseph stood in front of the large "NXT" letters in the audience area of Full Sail Arena, discussing the news he had just received from NXT General Manager William Regal. Out to ensure that "the Original Bro" received the justice he deserved for the NXT Tag Team Championship loss moments ago - the GM had granted Riddle the opportunity to fight Timothy Thatcher tonight, one-on-one!

✕✕✕

2) El Hijo Del Fantasma def. Jake Atlas (7:07)
- After being targeted two weeks ago by the same masked kidnappers who months ago were responsible for the disappearances of Raúl Mendoza and Joaquin Wilde, El Hijo Del Fantasma looked to blow off some steam against the charismatic Jake Atlas. Atlas surprised the luchador early with a series of armdrags and a bicycle kick for a near fall, when the experience of the veteran set in following a basement dropkick. Fantasma unleashed open-hand chops for Atlas to respond with some of his own, when Jake sidestepped an enzuigiri and caught him with a hurricanrana. Jake continued with a dive through the ropes, but would roll Fantasma inside to receive the Topé from the Depths of Hell! Fantasma applied a Boston crab on Jake, who made it to the ropes, but a back body drop enabled the fan favorite to soar with a moonsault plancha! The headlock driver drilled the luchador for a near fall, and the LGB-DDT was inbound. Fantasma cut him off and dropped Atlas from the fireman's carry across the top rope, when the Phantom Driver got the win.

Another Cruiserweight showcase saw El Hijo Del Fantasma come out on top, when at the top of the aisle appeared the two masked kidnappers! Watching in wait, Fantasma exchanged glares with them until the NXT Cruiserweight Champion Kushida came out from NXT Universe! "The Time Splitter" had the back of Fantasma, joining him in the ring for a showdown with the two kidnappers, who decided to take their leave. As the two finalists from the recent NXT Cruiserweight Championship Tournament shared the ring, Kushida offered a show of respect to Fantasma, who responded much like he did at NXT TakeOver: In Your House - refusing and walking away!

✕✕✕

Damian Priest was seen arriving in the parking lot of Full Sail University. In a cut-up shirt, sunglasses and wearing leather pants, "the Rockstar" of NXT had arrived at the building in his first appearance since NXT TakeOver: In Your House. Since losing the NXT North American Championship, Priest was to address the NXT Universe regarding what was next for him - up next.

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The New Horsewomen
The Iiconics
were backstage gossiping among themselves, when approached by McKenzie Mitchell. After their helping hand in Charlotte Flair's ambush of the NXT Women's Champion last week, the broadcast journalist questioned Billie Kay and Peyton Royce whether they were intimidated by who Io Shirai choose for a partner. The Iiconics claimed they had "the Joshi Judas" at their mercy last week, soon going off on a tangent about what "joshi" meant. As Royce and Kay pledged their allegiance to "the Queen", who they guaranteed would become the first three-time NXT Women's Champion in history next week, Charlotte Flair appeared. Ordering McKenzie to scram, "the Queen" told the ladies how proud she was of what they were able to make happen last week. Promising great things if they were able to match that again tonight with a big win over Shirai, Flair urged the Iiconics not to let her down! As Flair left, Billie and Peyton were rejoined by McKenzie. They said this was why they were chosen to be "The New Horsewomen".

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What's Next for The Rockstar of NXT?
For the first time since NXT TakeOver: In Your House, Damian Priest came walking out to the ring. In style, "the Archer of Infamy" received a surprisingly positive response from the NXT Universe as he arrived in the ring. On the microphone, the deep-voiced "Rockstar" of NXT claimed "Daddy" was home where he belonged. As he asked who had missed him, the former NXT North American Champion took the time to commend Keith Lee on giving him one hell of a fight several weeks ago. "The Limitless One" may have gotten the better of him, but he too hoped that Keith understood that he officially earned his respect. He explained that there were a lot of things he wasn't proud of doing in the past, but that through it all he wouldn't change a single thing. This was his world and everybody in Full Sail University, and watching from home on the USA Network, were living in it! With that said, "the Rockstar" decided to allow his audience to suggest ideas for where he went from here.

Quizzing the limited fans about whether he should continue pursuit of Keith Lee and become a two-time champ, Damian Priest took in the reaction from the NXT Universe - and suggested that it was high time he pursue a greater prize...one held presently by Adam Cole! The faithfuls in Full Sail University lit up, as "the Rockstar" discussed watching who were to come out on top in two weeks: whether Finn Bálor, Velveteen Dream, or "the Panama City Playboy" - because whoever it was, they would quickly have to deal with "the Archer of Infamy", who wanted the NXT Championship! Suddenly the building grew cold as the eerie guitar riffs of "the Herald of Doomsday" rang out throughout the building. But as the picture grew black and white, it was only Scarlett who would make her entrance. Dressed in black leather and intriguingly without her partner in crime, "the Siren of Disaster" marched down to the ring with an unenthused demeanor. Priest questioned what he could do for her, before answering his own question: he could do a lot!

"The Archer of Infamy" knew Scarlett from her association with Karrion Kross, and what "the Herald of Doomsday" had been able to accomplish so far was nothing short of spectacular. Whether it was taking Tommaso Ciampa down... or doing absolutely nothing but post creepy videos for Twitter hits and Instagram likes! Damian let Scarlett know she was the one carrying the black hole of charisma she hung around with. Priest grinned; Scarlett rolled her eyes. "The Siren of Disaster" warned Damian it was in his best interest to keep away from the path of her man. Scarlett proclaimed Kross the future NXT Champion - and if Damian tread on his toes, he would suffer that same fate. Damian proposed if Kross wanted to hook it up, all he needed to do was show up himself - and if Scarlett fancied a change of pace behind closed doors, "the Rockstar" issued her with a business card: advising she give him a call! With a smile on his face, and the people on his side, Damian left a disapproving Scarlett alone in the ring.

✕✕✕

A video package aired, taking us back to March 2020. Xia Li and Aliyah collided in a Women's Number One Contender's Ladder Qualifying match, but it would be cut premature when "the Wushu Crusader" went down unexpectedly with a fractured foot. Meditating in the shadows of the temple she called a home, the Chinese Superstar's training regimen was on display as she prepared for combat - up next, Xia Li would get her shot at revenge against Aliyah of the Robert Stone Brand.

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It's Not Fair, Bay-Bay
McKenzie Mitchell
was standing by backstage with the NXT Champion Adam Cole, wanting to ask who the leader of the Undisputed Era would prefer to meet for the NXT Championship in two weeks time. Cole responded insulted, repeating the ludicrous fact that he had already beaten Finn Bálor and Velveteen Dream fair and square! In his mind, there should be no fan vote, and there should be no title defense come Great American Bash. For the past year, "the Panama City Playboy" stressed that he had carried "the Black and Gold Brand" on his shoulders, yet for reasons that escape him, he could not understand why the so-called brilliance of NXT General Manager William Regal could not understand such moronic decisionmaking! Knowing that "the Prince" and "the Protagonist" were going to plead their case to the NXT Universe like a couple of saps tonight, Adam Cole Bay-Bay vowed to make the decision much simpler for the general public!


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3) Xia Li def. Aliyah (with Robert Stone and Chelsea Green) (3:29)
- The Robert Stone Brand were still regrouping from the beating from Rhea Ripley and Shotzi two weeks ago, as a visibly intimidated Robert Stone was reassured by "the Victorious" Chelsea Green, in the corner of Aliyah. Equally fearsome of "the Wushu Crusader", she would rush Aliyah with a series of kicks! With an intense expression on her face, Aliyah ran for the hills at ringside, where she was comforted by Chelsea. Li struck with a baseball slide, soon scaring "the Hipster" with a sudden martial arts pose! Xia struck with a big boot, when Green distracted allowing Aliyah to connect with the swinging neckbreaker. A Bad Cat Combo rocked the Chinese Superstar, making way for a diving legdrop from the second rope - but Li caught her in mid air with a jumping knee strike! As Li closed in to bring this match to an end, Green popped up on the apron. Aliyah came from behind and attempted Total Aliyah-Nation - but Xia sent her butting heads with Chelsea! Li knocked Aliyah out cold with the Tornado Kick to take the win!

Xia Li returned to the "wushu" pose, defending against the presence of the Robert Stone Brand at ringside. Robert Stone was distraught to see his women beaten again, as Chelsea Green clutched her nose in agony. Aliyah rolled out to the floor, where Chels shoved her with vigor! Getting into a shouting match over the miscommunication, Green argued that she thought Aliyah had broken her nose. Aliyah proclaimed innocence and blamed Green's face for costing her the match, when "the Hipster" came between the two looking to allow cooler heads to prevail. Instead, Xia Li struck with a baseball slide knocking Stone down to the floor - and with that "the Wushu Crusader" posed to ward off the bickering Chelsea and Aliyah.

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El Hijo Del Fantasma was winding down in the dressing room after his match with Jake Atlas, when into the room walked the NXT Cruiserweight Championship Kushida. With a chuckle, Fantasma was amused at the persistence of "the Time Splitter". In broken English, the luchador questioned if this was about the respect, to which Kushida claimed he knew what he wanted. The mysterious masked men could wait - if they were to get on the same page, he knew what needed to be done. Holding out the title before him, Kushida granted Fantasma a rematch for the NXT Cruiserweight Championship! Fantasma grinned and placed his fingertips on the title, telling Kushida he was on.
  • Next week - NXT Cruiserweight Championship - Kushida (c) vs El Hijo Del Fantasma
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Dressed in a leather jacket, Finn Bálor was in living color in Full Sail University. "The Prince" appeared calm amidst the fan vote to determine the NXT Championship number one contender ongoing; though up next, he and his adversary the Velveteen Dream were to face the NXT Universe. With one week remaining, "the Protagonist" wore a pink hairband, rimmed glasses and a velvet maroon suit. Both prospectful challengers were dressed to the nines for this important appearance - coming up next.

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Ever-Rise regrouped in the backstage area, exhausted from their hard-fought win against Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher. In disbelief themselves, Matt Martel and Chase Parker emotionally gripped the NXT Tag Team Championships as they discussed how long they had been waiting for this moment. It was worth all of the setbacks and sacrifices: the long drives, the time away from loved ones, and above all else, the amount of times they had to scratch and claw their way into NXT. Chase remarked this was the best night of their seventeen-year career as a tag team, and they had done it all by themselves! The two hugged it out, as Martel claimed they were never letting the titles go - calling for a celebration of epic proportions next week on NXT!
  • Next week - The new NXT Tag Team Champions Ever-Rise celebrate their big win

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The Great Race of 2020
Finn Bálor
was introduced to the ring in Full Sail University, with on week to the hour remaining until the deadline of the official fan vote on WWE.com. "The Prince" walked down to the ring, who posed in all black wearing a leather jacket. The NXT Universe gave Finn a loud reaction, but as he grasped the microphone about to speak a single word - out came the Velveteen Dream! "The Purple Rainmaker" was dressed to perfection, also receiving a loud and positive response. The two men rivalling for the next opportunity at Adam Cole's NXT Championship, come Great American Bash would soon meet in the ring, where the two would each stand at respective podiums. Dream smiled from behind his rose-tinted glasses towards Bálor, though Finn commented on how he wasn't sure what was funnier - the idea Velveteen thought he looked cool dressing up like Barney the Dinosaur at a wedding; or the notion that Dream thought he could think about getting beneath his skin.

"The Protagonist" scoffed, sassily quipping that Finn was the last man on earth he wanted to ever get under the skin of! Finn Bálor could not help but laugh, as the Velveteen Dream addressed the NXT Universe claiming that this fan vote was ongoing, and it was sure to be an intense race. The people were witnessing history personified, but they would be remiss to not consider the history that they could cause to unfold. A sequenced chain of events were in motion, and the people were the key to it all. He naturally wasn't talking about Bálor getting yet another opportunity to make a dork out of himself, but the culmination of the journey of a legend in the making. All the Dream ever wished to do was become was NXT Champion, and finally against all odds, Great American Bash was his chance. Affirming that this was his time and the NXT Universe would bare witness to it, it was up to them to ensure the reign of Adam Cole's would come to an end in two weeks. Finn tried to control himself, but remarked how the NXT Universe could alternatively vote for him, and he too would bring an end to the reign of terror of "the Panama City Playboy's!"

The Velveteen Dream watched with disgust, as Finn Bálor admitted he was no stranger to success: he was a former NXT Champion. Now, he was back. Seven months into his returning foray on "the Black and Gold Brand", what started as a mission statement had become an optimum point of intrigue to him. "The Prince" proclaimed the NXT Universe had the ability to vote for Dream to achieve his dream - or be guaranteed that Finn Bálor was the guy who they could all count on when he became NXT Champion at Great American Bash! Dream rolled his eyes, asking Finn to divulge the true reason he came back. Failing to work out on the main roster, he had come to the same place he supposedly outgrew - but while Finn was a former top guy in NXT: this wasn't the same NXT he remembered. Dream spoke of the places NXT went, only after Bálor left. Now he looked to hog that credit! "The Prince" shook his head, telling "the Protagonist" bluntly that Velveteen would be wasting away on the indie scene if it weren't for his trailblazing reign!

"The Prince" knew that the poll vote was open for another week, but quizzed the present NXT Universe on who they wanted to see beat Adam Cole's butt for the NXT Championship at Great American Bash. Velveteen Dream talked over Finn Bálor proclaiming he would not stand for pandering. Bálor joked that if anybody was pandering, it was the desperate "Purple Rainmaker!" As the two running opponents went face to face, the Undisputed Era came out to the ring! NXT Champion Adam Cole led the way for Bobby Fish and the NXT North American Championship-holding Roderick Strong. Finn braced for action, but unexpectedly struck Dream with a sharp elbow to the jaw! Having smelled a set-up from allcomers, "the Prince" tried to get the step up against the UE, who quickly hounded away and overwhelmed the Irishman! Dream, who had rolled out to the floor, contemplated walking away and leaving Bálor stranded much like he had done weeks ago - but instead revealed a purple bat from beneath the ring!

Taking the moral highground, the Velveteen Dream wielded his purple bat, catching Bobby Fish in the ribcage with it! Dream fired away blows against Roderick Strong, taking him down with a right hook! Adam Cole tried getting the jump on "the Protagonist", but Dream turned around; his bat pointed towards the NXT Champion! "The Panama City Playboy" backed off, but Roddy saved his good friend with a shot to the back of the head from the NXT North American Championship! The UE set Dream up for the Last Shot from Cole, when the theme music of Keith Lee introduced the true NXT North American Champion! Immediately targeting Roderick Strong with right hands, Fish was pounced from the ring, as a panicked Cole exited immediately. As "the Limitless One" hoisted up a wooden podium and slung it at the aisle, where it smashed, he was joined by reluctant forces in Finn and Dream. Roddy posed with the stolen title belonging to Lee, while Cole ran his mouth from the aisle!


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Following a replay from moments ago, during the break Keith Lee was seen backstage on the cell phone with someone. "The Limitless One" was furious to still be without his NXT North American Championship, though the call would conclude with the champ grinning from ear to ear. As McKenzie Mitchell approached the champ, he relayed the news. Having just been on the phone with NXT General Manager William Regal, next week would see Roderick Strong suffer a severe bout of deja vu. Keith brought up how he was the one who ended Roddy's theme song before, but next week he was going to end the reign of his dreams. If Strong wished to parade around the ring with his gold, Keith hoped he would enjoy it while he could - because next week, he would be faced with his Glory!
  • Next week - NXT North American Championship - Keith Lee (c) vs Roderick Strong

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Earlier today, footage aired of Candice LeRae arriving at Full Sail University when met in the hall by Mia Yim. "The Blasian Baddie" was not pleased to see the same woman she once held a great deal of respect for. Mia understood perfectly why she did what she did to Tommaso Ciampa, to do her husband's bidding. Yim asked how uninteresting "the Poison Pixie" had to be, but with a vacant stare Candice apologized for her lack of caring. Claiming she zoned out on account of Mia butting in with her opinion without being asked, LeRae told Mia that while normally she would have a lot of time for her - now was not one of those moments! Candice told Mia to keep her opinion to herself, because nobody was listening. LeRae began to leave, but Yim would turn her around and tell Candice if she wanted to go - they could go! LeRae rolled her eyes and walked away, while Yim had to prepare for action with Deonna Purrazzo.

4) Deonna Purrazzo def. Mia Yim (8:32) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- "The Virtuosa" was impressive in her NXT debut several weeks ago against the up-and-coming Kacy Catanzaro, but now had to concern herself against a seasoned veteran in Mia Yim. "The Blasian Baddie" bounced to the ring after her interesting run-in with Candice LeRae, catching the newcomer with a dropkick and a neckbreaker! Deonna tried to outwit her experienced opponent with a unique trapping stomp armbreaker, but Yim fired back with a takedown into a bow-and-arrow stretch! Deonna raked the eyes to escape the hold, slipping out to the apron - only to receive a swift big boot knocking her to the floor! Swaggering around the ring, Mia awaited the return of a hesitant "Virtuosa" - who appeared to have underestimated the prowess of "the Baddie!"
- The tables had turned, as Mia Yim received a step-over knee drop to the arm by Deonna Purrazzo. "The Virtuosa" delivered a gourdbuster, and after some work done to the arm, a knee lift scored a near fall. Purrazzo restrained the veteran following an armringer with an armbar, but with the NXT Universe behind her, "the Blasian Baddie" would respond with a series of clotheslines. Code Blue came from nowhere for a near fall, when Deonna missed a big boot opening her up for a dragon suplex. Yim looked for Sole Food, but Purrazzo blocked it and attempted the scissored armbar known as the Venus de Milo! Yim reversed into a roll-up, when "the Baddie" dropped her with Protect Yo Neck! Mia went for the cover, when Candice LeRae arrived on the aisle. With a cocky expression on her face, "the Poison Pixie" exchanged words with Yim allowing Deonna to take her down with the Venus de Milo! Yim tried to fight through the pain, but with her eyes set on Candice, she would succumb to giving up.

"The Virtuosa" was slow to relinquish the Venus de Milo, picking up another impressive win over Mia Yim. The glaring reason was present at ringside, as Candice LeRae confidently walked her way up the aisle without once looking back at her handiwork! "The Blasian Baddie" was left agonized, while Deonna Purazzo rejoiced knowing she had picked up a fruitful win.

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Cameras cut backstage, where a second fight had broken out between the men who had entered tonight as NXT Tag Team Champions! Security guards and officials were on hand in the parking lot now, as Matt Riddle rushed to try and get his hands on Timothy Thatcher - who was like a wild animal, screaming and grunting to go at it with "the King of Bros!" Never before had such a burning rivalry developed in the span of one night - as these two now-former teammates were prepared to collide in tonight's main event!
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An advertisement aired, promoting all of the merchandise available on WWEShop.com.

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A vignette aired, showing the reign of dominance Imperium had maintained over NXT UK. Since arriving in January 2019, WALTER's strong hold over the NXT United Kingdom Championship had remained strong in part thanks to his loyalists Marcel Barthel and Fabian Aichner. With a message for the NXT Universe across the pond, Barthel and Aichner declared that they were coming to the United States to protect the saced mat from all of their competition. In two weeks, Imperium's Barthel and Aichner were to return to NXT.
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No Longer Bros
McKenzie Mitchell
was standing by with Matt Riddle, hoping to understand more about the sudden flare between himself and alleged former tag team partner Timothy Thatcher. "The Original Bro" explained that he thought Timmy had grown, but he was dead wrong. For as much of an experienced mat technician he was, Timmy's temper sometimes got out of hand. He and "the Mad Scientist" had had their fair shares of problems before, but never this bad. He thought it was all under the bridge, but clearly he was dead wrong! What Timmy did earlier tonight, costing him the NXT Tag Team Championship after landing him such a sweet gig with NXT? Talk about ungrateful. "The Original Bro" spoke boldly for the first time in a long time, as he declared that now, he was glad NXT General Manager William Regal signed off on their match for tonight - because he was going to put that asshat in his place.

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5) Breezango def. The Brian Kendrick and Ariya Daivari (4:37)
- Dressed fashionably as astronauts from NASA, Breezango returned in style for their first match as a unit since last December. With his return last week from Tommy John surgery, Fandango looked in immaculate condition as he got off to a hot start sending Ariya Daivari inadvertently careening into the Brian Kendrick. Tyler Breeze connected with a calf kick, prompting the co-founders of 'the Fashion Files' to take a dance break mid-match! Kendrick was quickly losing his temper, as "Prince Pretty" stunned the Persian with an enzuigiri, when "the Man with a Plan" grabbed a hold of Tyler's hair and slammed him to the mat! Cornering him instinctively, the 205 Live Originals took turns putting the boots to Breeze while "the Dance Expert" strutted on the apron. Finally a dropkick caught Kendrick in mid-air, and Fandango leapt in with the tag! Making short work of Daivari, a double Supermodel Kick wiped Kendrick out! As Breeze drilled Daivari with the Beauty Shot, Fandango soared with the Last Dance for the three count.

In decisive fashion, Breezango had rapidly established themselves in the NXT Tag Team Division. Tyler Breeze and Fandango came to their feet and hugged it out, before dancing around the ring gleefully. Reunited and feeling so good, they paraded the ring to a positive response while the Brian Kendrick watched in disgust from the aisle.

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Chelsea Green and Aliyah continued to yell at one another in the quarters of the Robert Stone Brand, as Robert Stone again tried to interrupt their bickering. His clients finally screamed at "the Hipster" to butt out, promptly bringing him to scream at them to get a hold of themselves! Robert brought up how things were going so well, but now they were allowing a misunderstanding to get the better of them. Stone declared that he had just about had it, ordering the two to get on the same page - or the Brand might be in need of some changes. Stone left the scene, bringing Green and Aliyah to argue even further about whom Robert was referring to!

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The Mad Scientist Explains
Timothy Thatcher
performed deep squats, as McKenzie Mitchell nervously approached "the Mad Scientist". Hoping to gain insight as to his sudden transformation over the course of the night, the newcomer who walked in as NXT Tag Team Champion snatched the microphone and caused the broadcast journalist to flee! Tim glared down the lens of the camera and explained that Matt Riddle had never been a friend of his, and was someone clinging to the abilities he possessed. He was no mixed martial artist, nor was he an NXT Superstar - he was a professional wrestler, and tearing people limb from limb was what he did better than anybody! Thatcher claimed he wasn't as barbaric or psychotic as it seemed, which brought him to express his gratitude towards "Matty" for bringing him in. But that's where their alliance ended. With a foot in the door, Tim declared that from now on, he was going to show "the Black and Gold Brand" exactly what 'Thatch-As-Thatch-Can' was all about.

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Vic Joseph was standing in front of the large 'NXT' letters in the audience area of Full Sail University, promoting this coming Friday night on 205 Live. Not only would the NXT Cruiserweight Champion Kushida be in action against youngster Tehuti Miles; but Cameron Grimes would meet Leon Ruff - who had something to prove after being left laying by Ricky Starks last week!
  • 205 Live - NXT Cruiserweight Champion Kushida vs Tehuti Miles
  • 205 Live - Cameron Grimes vs Leon Ruff

✕✕✕

Access Denied, Again
On the topic of "Absolute" Ricky Starks, Isaiah Scott made his arrival to Full Sail Arena to a positive response from the NXT Universe. Following two consecutive weeks of the NXT newcomer claiming he would make his debut, both times Starks had declined the opportunity - and after taking out Leon Ruff last week, "Swerve" took it upon himself to throw out the challenge himself. Scott appeared motivated as he removed his sunglasses and leather jacket, when out swaggered Ricky Starks...wearing pajamas! With his shirt open revealing his abs, Ricky yawned and stretched to loud boos as he held a microphone. While he would love to make his long-awaited NXT in-ring debut tonight, he was exhausted! Ricky talked about being too sleepy to compete, and if there was one thing he simply couldn't do - it was get in that ring tonight. Starks apologized to "the King of Swerve Style" for the disappointment, but truth be told - he bored him to death!

Ricky Starks told Isaiah Scott he would see him around, but an incensed "Swerve" was furious. Departing the ring, "Swerve" confronted "Absolute" on the rampway - though the referee was cautious and quick to intervene. As "the King of Swerve Style" screamed at Ricky to man up, put up and shut up, Starks threw his hands up in defense and took a turn back. Incensed by the newcomer, Scott made the mistake of turning his back...allowing Starks to blast him from behind with an elbow strike. With a series of stomps, Starks began to put the boot to Isaiah - who fired back with right hands himself! Ricky sped to the backstage area in a hurry, but "Swerve" was not yet done. Yelling out to the NXT Universe, the fans echoed the NXT Superstar's sentiment: Full Sail was '"Swerve"'s House!'

✕✕✕

The Iiconics were dressed and prepared for tag team competition. Once upon a time, they were top contenders to the NXT Women's Championship - but now, with their alignment with Charlotte Flair, Billie Kay and Peyton Royce were about to step in the ring with Io Shirai. Walking to the ring alone, "the Joshi Judas" appeared unnerved by the challenge. But who would her tag team partner be? The match was up next.

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The Fun and Games Are Over
Following a replay of "Absolute" Ricky Starks ducking another challenge against Isaiah "Swerve" Scott, we returned backstage to see Isaiah Scott still seething and reering to go. "The King of Swerve Style" vocalized his thoughts and feelings about Ricky being a yellow-bellied coward, and repeated that this was NXT - and Full Sail University was '"Swerve"'s House!' Scott was ready to go, but he was approached by Leon Ruff. Looking to compose Scott's emotional state, he revealed "Swerve's" phone - and NXT General Manager William Regal was on video call! The GM told "Swerve" how ludicrous Ricky Starks was being, and how he empaphized with he and Leon. Regal declared "Absolute's" habits of making NXT look like a playground were bloody well over - because in two weeks Ricky Starks either made his debut against Isaiah Scott, or he would be out on his arse where he came from! "Swerve" grinned and thanked the GM, telling he and Leon that nobody would recognize "Pretty" Ricky when he was done with him.

✕✕✕

6) NXT Women's Champion Io Shirai and Tegan Nox def. The Iiconics (6:09)
- One week from Io Shirai's rematch with Charlotte Flair, the NXT Women's Champion was revealed to have a tag team partner, as she pointed to the stage to introduce Tegan Nox. "The Welsh Valley Wonder" wore a bandage on her knee after the Fight to a Finish weeks ago against Dakota Kai, as she exploded with a headbutt for Peyton Royce! Io and Tegan showed their chemistry with a double suplex, and the NXT Women's Champion impressed with the flapjack to both of "the Iiconic Duo!" Nox lit Billie Kay up with forearms, when Charlotte Flair made a grandiose arrival to the aisleway. It distracted Nox, allowing the Iiconics to strike, and the Fall From Grace was the differencemaker! The RAW Superstars took turns dissecting Tegan, who rallied back with a German suplex for Kay. Shirai tagged in and ran through both Iiconics. Nox evened the odds, and both Iiconics received a double tiger feint kick from the champ. The Shiniest Wizard to Royce followed with the Moonsault giving them the win!

A Trivia Note?
Io Shirai and Tegan Nox celebrated with a hug in spite of the presence of Charlotte Flair, who frowned with disapproval from the top of the aisleway. "The Joshi Judas" presented the NXT Women's Championship to "the Queen", who laughed over the microphone. The RAW Superstar told Io how little she truly meant to her. If she thought the loss at NXT TakeOver: In Your House meant anything, it was a mere trivia note. In actuality, she could never beat "the Queen", because she was too good and too powerful. Charlotte was the daughter of "the Dirtiest Player in the Game", and that made her blood all the more richer than Io's. She had held more championships than Io could count, and headlined WrestleMania more times than she would ever. Next week would be the end of this worthless title reign, because Charlotte would once again break records by becoming a three-time NXT Women's Champion at the Great American Bash. Flair dropped the mic and stared down Io, who roared back in preparation. Both women were ready - as next week could not come soon enough!

✕✕✕

Mauro Ranallo and Beth Phoenix discussed the first night of the Great American Bash, taking place live next Wednesday night on NXT! Graphics aired, advertising that the first thirty minutes would air commercial-free on the USA Network. The NXT Women's Championship would get things underway with Charlotte Flair challenging Io Shirai; the NXT North American Championship match would see reigning champ Keith Lee look to reclaim the title stolen by Roderick Strong; in a rematch from the classic at NXT TakeOver: In Your House, Kushida would defend the NXT Cruiserweight Championship against El Hijo Del Fantasma; plus, the NXT Universe would find out the victor of the poll to determine NXT Champion Adam Cole's next number one contender. Who would it be - the Velveteen Dream, or Finn Bálor?
  • The winner of the poll will be revealed as the number one contender - as chosen by the NXT Universe - would it be the Velveteen Dream or Finn Bálor?
  • NXT Women's Championship - Io Shirai (c) vs Charlotte Flair
  • NXT North American Championship - Keith Lee (c) vs Roderick Strong
  • NXT Cruiserweight Championship - Kushida (c) vs El Hijo Del Fantasma
  • Shane Thorne and Brendan Vink ring in the 4th of July

✕✕✕

It had been an intense night for the very two men who walked in as NXT Tag Team Champions and partners - as a splitscreen showed Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher heading for the ring. Both walking backstage, they had not only lost the titles to Ever-Rise in tonight's opening match; but had fallen apart at the seams, being separated from backstage brawls twice. "The Original Bro" had declared he would put Thatcher in his place, while "The Mad Scientist" had explained he was going to make NXT find out what 'Thatch-As-Thatch-Can' was all about. The two collided - next!

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The Shotcallers
The Undisputed Era
were backstage, Adam Cole still reeling over what transpired in the ring. Roderick Strong backed him up, proclaiming they were the champs and didn't deserve this treatment! In possession of the NXT Championship and Keith Lee's NXT North American Championships, Cole and Roddy clinked the gold together. Bobby Fish agreed, accusing NXT General Manager William Regal of running a dictatorship! Roderick proclaimed that the UE would bounce back from this, because he was going to squash that ball of Jell-O and "retain his title". "The Panama City Playboy" explained this was why Roddy was his best friend - because he knew what needed to be done, and Bobby and Kyle did too! It didn't matter whether the NXT Universe voted for the Velveteen Dream, or Finn Bálor. The result would remain the same. Adam announced he would personally reveal the winner of the number one contender's poll next week, because they ran NXT - and that was Undisputed.

  • Next week - NXT Champion Adam Cole will reveal who won the number one contender's poll - Velveteen Dream or Finn Bálor.

✕✕✕

6) Matt Riddle def. Timothy Thatcher by referee stoppage (8:15) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- Close to two hours following their last defense as NXT Tag Team Champions, all hell had broken loose dividing a tag team built on inflicting violence and outclassing allcomers. Matt Riddle and Timothy Thatcher had twice tonight come to blows, and wasted no time coming together a third time to determine who the better man was. Tim and Matt slugged it out once the bell sounded, with neither man letting up! Blow for blow, Riddle threw a series of kicks when Thatcher attempted a takedown on "the Original Bro". Fighting him off using his MMA experience, Riddle attempted a cross-armbreaker from underneath just for Thatcher to break free. Transitioning into a sadistic bow-and-arrow stretch, he shoved fingers into the orifices of "the Bro", until Riddle palm struck his way free. With a series of strikes, Riddle missed a leaping knee strike when Thatcher knocked his friend-turned-foe through the ropes with a European uppercut!
- NXT returned from its' final commercial break, as Timothy Thatcher goaded Matt Riddle from a rear position. Applying a grounded sleeper, Riddle struggled in the grip of "the Mad Scientist", who attempted to contort the arms of Riddle where possible. "The Original Bro" headbutted free, surprising Thatcher with a deadlift fisherman buster! Exhausted, Riddle fired up with Bro kicks, but the twisted Thatcher fired up. A pelé kick finally rocked him, when a deadlift German suplex got a near fall! Attempted the Bro Derek, Thatcher slipped out and locked in a single-legged Boston crab - his knee driven into the spine of "the King of Bros". Riddle would grab the ankle and use an ankle lock to transition out, but Thatch made the ropes! Stalking Tim with the Final Flash, Thatcher rolled through with a kneebar attempted - just to be reversed into a deadlift gutwrench suplex. Bro 2 Sleep saw Thatcher escape, when a swift knee strike knocked him down! With a bloodied nose, he tried to fight - but the referee stopped the match!

A controversial decision saw the NXT Universe boo the outcome, as Timothy Thatcher argued with the referee's decision. Though "the Mad Scientist" was still in the game, the official made a judgment call - and it cost him big! Thatcher grabbed the ref by the collar and sent him from the ring, engaging in another crazy brawl with Matt Riddle. Neither man let up, as Thatch opened up with palm strikes, while Riddle attempted to choke him out with a guillotine choke. The two rolled around in search of a dominant stance, until they collapsed out on the floor. Riddle threw blows, but Thatch tackled him into the plexiglass! The back of "the Original Bro's" head clashed with the wall, as the locker rooms emptied! NXT Superstars, personnel and producers spilled out to ringside - when Riddle leapt from the steel steps onto the sea of people, in an attempt to get to Thatch!

Neither mauler would let up, when finally the NXT General Manager William Regal appeared on the big screen! Appearing via Skype, the GM demanded Timothy Thatcher and Matt Riddle break up the carnage, as the NXT Universe's chants of "NXT" came to a hush. Everybody stopped what they were doing, as Regal claimed tonight had been pure, unadulerated chaos - but that's not what he wanted NXT to become! Whatever animosity existed between the two would come to an end in two weeks, because the Englishman decreed that he was bringing something from up his sleeve that had been a long time coming. Riddle vs Thatcher: in the Fight Pit! The two glared at one another, as the burning question remained: what the hell was a Fight Pit?


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Stojy

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Honestly, I'm torn on the Riddle/Thatcher stuff on this show. On one hand, I like the idea of the fresh food and their different personalities eventually clashing like this makes sense. It honestly feels a little rushed though to go from break up, to brawl, to match with dodgy ending to feud killer in two weeks all on the one show. I think this probably could have been spread out a little more to feel bigger. Everything that actually happened was fine, just a bit rushed for my liking which is a shame because it's a quality angle otherwise. EverRise as tag champs is definitely not something I expected though, and I'm really looking forward to what you do with them as champs, and their hopefully way over the top celebration next week.

Cruiserweight title match has been booked well, with the lingering interesting fact of the two kidnappers hanging around.

On a personal standpoint, I don't really like Priest or Kross, but I am intrigued to see how you build the angle as Kross angles can be fun. This first encounter between Priest and Scarlett was great for what it was, and gives Kross motivation to get back at Priest for the lack of respect.

Intrigued to see whether the Robert Stone Brand will figure it out or if there will be a bit of a shake up.

Charlotte promo to hype her rematch with Shirai was solid.

Finn/Dream segment with UE getting involved was also solid. Liked the inclusion of Lee also to hype both title matches. Smart booking.

Yim/LeRae looks like a thing so cool and happy to see Purazzo get another big win.

Finally, I've been a big fan of the way you've brought in Starks by dodging opponents and not wanting to wrestle. Thought this week progressed well with him getting violent with Swerve when he had the opportunity. Looking forward to seeing them collide, but just wanted to say you've done a fantastic job of establishing Starks as a heel the fans can really dislike right off the bat.
 
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DTP

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Friday Night SmackDown #1088 – June 26, 2020
"The Undertaker's Legacy"
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
Presented by
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LESS THAN FOUR WEEKS FROM EXTREME RULES!

"Are You Ready" by AC/DC
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205 Live #185 – June 26, 2020
1) NXT Cruiserweight Champion Kushida def. Tehuti Miles with the Hoverboard Lock. After the match, Kushida was confronted by the two masked kidnappers at ringside, who simply watched him. (7:20)
- Vic Joseph and Dio Maddin provided a special analytical look back at the NXT Cruiserweight Championship Tournament Finals from NXT TakeOver: In Your House, showing highlights of Kushida against El Hijo Del Fantasma ahead of their rematch come Wednesday's NXT Great American Bash.
- McKenzie Mitchell conducted a backstage interview with The Brian Kendrick and Ariya Daivari, who declared their issues with Breezango needed to be resolved. They issued a challenge to Tyler Breeze and Fandango for next week on 205 Live.
2) Cameron Grimes def. Leon Ruff with the Cave-In. Grimes underestimated Ruff during the match, finally resulting in a fiery comeback from Ruff before being cut off and defeated. Grimes ran his mouth afterwards, until being surprised by a dropkick from behind from Tehuti Miles. (4:23)

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A video package aired, taking us back to the infamous introduction of The Undertaker at the 1990 Survivor Series. "The Deadman" had been named many things by many observers and spectators over the year. "The Lord of Darkness" to "the Phenom"; from "superhuman" to "unhuman". He had captured championship gold and recorded history-making streaks throughout over three decades of destruction, all while creating groundbreaking events that the sports entertainment history may never see repeated. Spliced in were interview clips from the WWE Network series 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride', echoing the comments made by Mark Calaway himself this past weekend. Finally declaring that he was retiring, what many thought would never come to fruition had finally taken place - and tonight, some of WWE's greatest Superstars would pay respect to The Undertaker's Legacy.

Friday Night SmackDown opened to the sight of a limited selection of WWE Universe members in attendance chanting "Thank You 'Taker" in salute to "the Phenom". WWE Superstars gathered on the stage, including WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan, SmackDown Tag Team Champions Heavy Machinery, The New Day, Drew Gulak, Apollo Crews among others - as tonight's special edition on FOX would see some of the all-time great WWE Legends pay their respects to The Undertaker's Legacy.

  • WWE Hall of Famers and WWE Superstars comment on The Undertaker's retirement
  • WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy shall meet The Fiend face-to-face
  • WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak vs King Corbin and Duke Tony Nese

Michael Cole and Corey Graves welcomed us to Friday Night SmackDown, discussing the breaking news coming away from 'The Undertaker: The Last Ride' this past Sunday - streaming now on the WWE Network. The thirty year career of "the Deadman" had finally come to a close following Undertaker's heart-wrenching announcement. They discussed their favorite moments of "the Phenom's" iconic career - from WrestleMania Streaks to innovating the Hell in a Cell match and the Casket match.

A second video package aired, providing another overview of The Undertaker's Hall of Fame-worthy career. "The Phenom" made his debut as part of Ted Dibiase's team at the 1990 Survivor Series, and had gone on to do it all in his thirty year WWE career. A four-time WWE Champion and a three-time World Heavyweight Champion, he had won the Royal Rumble match and gone on to headline countless WrestleManias. He was the man who put the Hell in a Cell match on the map with star-making performances against Shawn Michaels and Mick Foley. The Undertaker's Streak had encompassed twenty years until going broken by Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania XXX - yet he continued to go, chasing the perfect match to go out on and ride off into the sunset. In the fallout of the Buried Alive match against AJ Styles at WrestleMania 36 this past year, "the Phenom" confessed he felt his prophecy had finally gone fulfilled.
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A 'Tribute to The Undertaker' video package aired, featuring John Cena and Roman Reigns discuss their thoughts and opinions on the Legacy of The Undertaker. John talked about "the Deadman's" legacy being about the reliability he had, having cared about the business as much as he did. "The Big Dog" considered him one of the greatest performers of all-time, having dedicated his entire life to it. Through the passion, everyone believed that no matter what, the Undertaker would be the Undertaker.

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A 'Tribute to The Undertaker' video package aired, featuring Bret Hart, Edge and Christian discuss their thoughts and opinions on the Legacy of The Undertaker. "The Rated R Superstar" spoke about the mood that changed throughout the arena whenever the gong hit. Christian spoke about the aura around "the Deadman", and the character that left him in awe every time he saw him. "The Hitman" voiced how he always delivered, and always raised the bar. Edge compared the greatness of the character to being like lightning in a bottle - but he caught it and kept it, for over thirty years.

No More Slip Ups
Tamina was backstage warming up for action, when "the Bouncer" was confronted by the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley. Unenthused at the fact she had to team up with Tamina tonight, she made her frustrations clear as to the sheer incompetence of the second-generation Superstar. Tamina remained tight-lipped as "Bayley 2 Belts" showed off her gold and the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship, claiming that she got the two titles by being a winner and actually doing her job as being the frontrunner of Friday nights! With Sasha Banks allegedly off the show tonight due to sickness, Bayley warned that one small slip-up by Tamina against Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross tonight would see her career in the gutter for the bazillionth time! The ever-apprehensive champ stormed away, leaving "the Islander" to roll her eyes.

  • Tonight - SmackDown Women's Champion and WWE Women's Tag Team Champion Bayley, and Tamina vs Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross
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1) Dolph Ziggler def. Gran Metalik (4:49)
- "The Show Off's" growing obsession with The Hacker's identity revealed an ugly side to his demeanor last week. In attempting to unmask Lince Dorado, Gran Metalik came to his aid. The luchador surprised Dolph Ziggler, catching him with an inverted Sling Blade and a spinning facebuster! "The King of the Ropes" showed how high he could fly with a rope-run missile dropkick, and when Ziggler tried to escape the ring, Metalik would soar with a Tornillo connecting! Ziggler finally caught Metalik as he walked the ropes like a tightrope - a dropkick catching the luchador from the second rope. The Lucha House Party member was grounded by a sleeper hold on the mat, but Gran fired back. Cut off by the Famouser, Ziggler delivered a series of elbow drops - when Metalik nearly caught the win with a brainbuster! Dolph interrupted Metalik's second rope dive and climbed to the apron - where Metalik connected with a leaping Frankensteiner. He would attempt the Yoshi Tonic, but Dolph hooked his legs with the ropes to cheat his way to victory!

Dolph Ziggler had his hand raised by the official, clearly taken aback by the competitive nature of Gran Metalik. The Lucha House Party member contested the decision with the referee, when "the Show Off" needlessly wiped him out with the Super Kick! Mounting him with some furious right hands, Ziggler again attempted to unmask the luchador - his obsession with identities getting out of hand! Thankfully Lince Dorado would save the day for his partner, bringing Dolph to bail from the ring in time. That's when a black-out sent the WWE Performance Center into darkness, until the big screen lit up on the stage - the Hacker silently watching from the comfort of his control room. Ziggler was growing increasingly agitated by the games played by this anonymous figure.

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Royal Flush
King Corbin and Duke Nese were dressed to impress in their formal, royal attires. With the tag team match coming up tonight against the WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak, the two turned a corner backstage to bump into Shorty G. Unimpressed, the King and the Duke began to crowd the Olympian with verbal harrassment. Asking how life was like on the losing edge, the newcomer to Friday Night SmackDown mocked G's lack of success, whereas Corbin proclaimed Shorty nothing but a loser whose career was going absolutely nowhere. Finally, Shorty reminded them of the scene last year - where in the King of the Ring Tournament Finals, he came so close to beating Corbin to being named King Gable. Yet, Corbin proclaimed that he didn't beat him; and so from that day forth, he would be known as nothing but a "stinking loser!" Obnoxiously, the Royals walked away, leaving G to scowl in response. Apollo Crews appeared to put his friend at ease, though Shorty G was livid.

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A 'Tribute to The Undertaker' video package aired, featuring Kane and Ric Flair discuss their thoughts and opinions on the Legacy of The Undertaker. "The Big Red Monster" believed the character was the greatest in sports entertainment history. Unique and mythical, Kane believed "the Deadman" role was legendary. "The Nature Boy" spoke about the size of the Undertaker, and his athleticism. So strong and so well-defined, Kane called it a perfect total package; while Flair echoed the sentiment, calling Undertaker the greatest star in the history of the business.

The Law
Sarah Schreiber stood by backstage with Sonya Deville. After the damage she did to Mandy Rose's shoulder last week, she deflected the broadcast journalist's questions, holding no remorse over what took place. Deville repeated that she was "the Law" who ran Friday Night SmackDown - and to any of the little girls in the locker room who had any doubts, what she made of her ex-best friend was all the proof they needed. Sonya claimed she was sick and tired of playing second fiddle to anyone, much like she was disgusted at the idea of having to play third wheel to "the Precious Peach" and "the Fugly Fatso" Otis. Deville vowed to be the one whose career would skyrocket - not "the Golden Goddess's!" Finally, Carmella entered the scene, telling Sonya her mouth wrote cheques her moves couldn't buy. 'Mella told Sonya everybody was sick to death of hearing about "the Law", but implored her if she wanted to lay down that law tonight - she could be her guest. Deville scoffed, claiming 'Mella would regret this tonight.

  • Tonight - Carmella vs Sonya Deville
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Boosted Esteem

Alexa Bliss
stretched in the locker room, preparing for the tag team match tonight against Bayley and Tamina. In walked a downtrodden Nikki Cross, who took a seat on the bench. Alexa asked her partner what was wrong, and while the Scot was initially hesitant, she would confess guilt over feeling like she was the reason Bayley and Sasha Banks beat them for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship last month. Full of self-doubt, "Little Miss Bliss" confronted Nikki and told her that she was good enough. They were the best tag team in the division, and they had proven that twice in the past - and they would again tonight! Alexa convinced Nikki she was good enough to not only win the Women's Tag titles again, but to be considered SmackDown Women's Championship material too! Cross was relieved to hear this and thanked her bestie for boosting her esteem. With an overjoyous hug, Nikki said she would not let them down and would not leave without a W tonight! Cross zoomed from the room, leaving Alexa overstimulated.

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The Next Level
Dolph Ziggler stomped through the backstage area, furious with how things had gone down again tonight! "The Show Off" cursed the Hacker's identity and once again blamed them for not just overshadowing him, but stealing his spotlight! Dolph paced angrily up and down, talking to himself about how he was renowned for stealing the show and refused to be humiliated again by that coward in a cloak - when the video monitor near him sparked up with a screenful of static. Ziggler confronted it, to see The Hacker appear. What had started was all of Dolph's undoing, and next week the two of them would take things to the next level. Dolph tried to respond, but The Hacker's signal would see him vanish. In return, Dolph kicked the monitor over and screamed for the anonymous meddler to reveal himself!

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Elsewhere, the WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak concluded their pre-match warmups before setting off for the ring. With his first number one contender named since becoming champ back at Backlash, in King Corbin; "the Yes Man" and his training partner "the Militant Mat-Mite" set out for the ring. Set to meet the King and Duke Nese in tag team action - it was coming up next.

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A 'Tribute to The Undertaker' video package aired, featuring Triple H and Shawn Michaels discuss their thoughts and opinions on the Legacy of The Undertaker. "The Game" spoke candidly about the loyalty of the man Mark Calaway, to the business he dedicated himself to. "The Heartbreak Kid" spoke of the longevity of "the Phenom", and how magic it was to exist on top of the entire business for such a prolonged period of time. HHH commented on him being a locker room leader, and considered his legacy that there would never be another Undertaker.

Following discussion from
Michael Cole and Corey Graves, a video package aired recapping what happened last week. Following The Fiend's unnerving jump-scare appearance, confronting Jeff Hardy atop the ladder at Backlash, the WWE Universal Champion took to the ring last week to personally call out Bray Wyatt. The demented protagonist of 'the Firefly Fun House' responded to the challenge, promising to summon "the New Face of Fear" tonight. Would we see the first appearance of the Fiend on Friday Night SmackDown in months, tonight?

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2) King Corbin and Duke Nese def. WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak (7:07) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- King Corbin was victorious last week against Apollo Crews following a choice confrontation with Daniel Bryan, cementing his position as the next in line for a shot at the WWE Intercontinental Championship. Following his debut costing Apollo the match, Tony Nese had been reborn as Corbin's right-hand man - Duke Nese. Drew Gulak had extensive history with his former 205 Live colleague, and immediately targeted him with relentless forearm smashes. A body slam into the corner went averted as Nese connected with a buckle German suplex, when King Corbin made the tag. The Gu-Lock nearly put the number one contender to sleep again, when "the Patriarch" of the Royal Family slipped out to ringside and intercepted "the Militant Mat-Mite" with a clothesline! Corbin and Nese each showboated to Bryan, as they successfully sectioned Gulak in their corner.
- Drew Gulak aimed to battle his way from the corner against Duke Nese and King Corbin, when the King tagged in and cut him off with the Deep Six! Corbin again showboated in the face of the WWE Intercontinental Champion, who got the WWE Universe behind "the Militant Mat-Mite". Corbin's cobra clutch saw Gulak eventually wrestle out, when Nese got the tag and cut him off with the leaping hotshot. Nese attempted the triangle moonsault - but Gulak got his knees up! The tag was made to Daniel Bryan, who immediately sent Corbin from the apron with a dropkick. Yes Kicks rocked Nese's world when the Duke responded. Bryan backflipped from the corner and connected with the flying clothesline, soon applying the Romero special! Corbin broke it up and looked for the End of Days, but Bryan reversed into the Yes Lock - broken by Nese! Gulak tagged in looking for the Gu-Lock, when Corbin delivered a huge haymaker! Nese capitalized with the Running Kneese to pick up the win.

The two Royals were victorious in this tag team outing, as WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan soon slid into the ring. Drew Gulak was down, and his training partner rushed to his side - when King Corbin blasted "the Yes Man" from behind with a shot from the Royal Scepter! Corbin and Duke Nese put the boots to "the Submission Expert", bringing "the Militant Mat-Mite" to try and turn the tide. In return, the End of Days planted Gulak, when finally out came Shorty G - with Apollo Crews not far behind him! The two pursued Corbin and Nese from the ring, and the two would soon help Bryan and Gulak to their feet.

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The New Day were backstage psyching themselves up for their tag team match still to come with Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura, as Big E gleefully remarked at how after months out of the hunt - now John Morrison and The Miz were no longer SmackDown Tag Team Champions, it was a New Day for the tag team division! Kofi Kingston declared their intentions to re-enter the hunt tonight, because once they beat those stinky starving artists "the Swiss Cyborg" and "the King of Strong Style" - they were coming back for those titles. Thrusting their hips and gyrating in unison, they declared that they would once again be named WWE SmackDown Tag Team Champions.

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

Following discussion from Michael Cole and Corey Graves, a video package aired revealing the events of last week's shocking betrayal as Friday Night SmackDown went off the air. In the style of an epic movie trailer, following a masterful reign as SmackDown Tag Team Champions, one man decided to once again break out and become his own man - as The Miz left John Morrison laying in the ring with a Skull Crushing Finale. He was a Hollywood movie star, a reality television hit, and hosted the most must-see talk show in WWE history - coming this summer, "the A-Lister" had vowed to launch his career to the stratosphere all over again. He was The Miz: and he was Awesome!


The Series Finale of The Dirt Sheet
The camera panned out to reveal the movie trailer reviewing the dissolution of John Morrison and The Miz's alliance was being broadcast on a television monitor inside of the squared-circle. The Miz was sat in a director's chair inside of the ring in a black suit and tie, beside an empty chair listing his ex-tag team partner's name. With a microphone in hand and a somber voice, "the A-Lister" welcomed us to the series finale of 'the Dirt Sheet'. It would be the very final edition of the show, and for that the WWE Universe could hold "the Shaman of Sexy" responsible. While he could confess that the chemistry the two of them possessed as a unit was without a shadow of a doubt must-see, Miz claimed that he never needed the reassurance that John Morrison's partnership had to offer. He never needed the confidence boosters or the pep talks that John had to offer him - and furthermore, he didn't even dislike John! The truth was, he nothinged him!

The Miz admitted John Morrison may have helped him, but when push came to shove, he couldn't even help himself. "The A-Lister" reached unmatchable heights the last time this happened, when he was on his way up. He became WWE Champion and headlined WrestleMania without him. The only reason he decided to rehire "the Friday Night Delight" to be his sidekick of a partner, was pity! Miz felt sorry for Morrison having to go it alone, striving to survive. What ultimately cost him, was his eagerness to beat a dead horse and proclaim to him information he already knew. The fact of the matter was, Miz knew how good he was and no longer needed John's friendship! Coming to his feet, Miz urged the WWE Audience to pour one out for 'the Dirt Sheet', because this was the last time they'd see it. Looking down at Morrison's director's chair, he glanced down at his name, telling John he wished him well in his future endeavors! Kicking the chair over, Miz left alone - onto greener pastures for the former SmackDown Tag Team Champion.

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Shorty G was in the zone, after having gotten a piece of King Corbin and Duke Nese alongside Apollo Crews earlier tonight. Apollo entered to check on his tag team partner, who told him this was where he turned a new page. For long enough had he been made a mockery of by the likes of meatheads such as the King and the Duke. Apollo agreed, telling him he was right and he would stand by him all the way. In walked the WWE Intercontinental Champion Daniel Bryan and Drew Gulak, who expressed their gratitude for coming to their aid. Man-to-man, "the Submission Expert" told Chad Gable how much potential he saw in him. He was better than the Royals, and implored he and Apollo to get them another taste and get even with those two jokes. G looked back at Daniel, telling him he would, leaving the room. Bryan soon turned to Crews, promising him he would get his own title shot soon enough.

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A 'Tribute to The Undertaker' video package aired, featuring Batista and Mick Foley discuss their thoughts and opinions on the Legacy of The Undertaker. "The Animal" reminisced about his own career and how it would not be summed up about him or his own accomplishments; but the greatness of the Undertaker through their past encounters. "The Hardcore Legend" spoke of the stunned responses he received whenever bringing up outside of the business that he had wrestled "the Phenom". Batista claimed Undertaker was at the top of the totem pole, while Mick mused how understated it would be to consider the impact that working with "the Deadman" had had on his career. Batista declared he was the very best he ever met in the ring. Foley claimed Undertaker transcended sports entertainment, and called him one of the greatest in all of entertainment.
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3) Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross def. SmackDown Women's Champion and WWE Women's Tag Team Champion Bayley, and Tamina (5:15)
- This match was scheduled to be a rematch between Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross and the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions Bayley and Sasha Banks, until "the Legit Boss" was forced to withdraw due to sickness. Substituting her was "the Bouncer" Tamina. The SmackDown Women's Champion opened with a fired up Nikki Cross, who outwitted Bayley at every turn. A crossbody and a diving clothesline saw "Bayley 2 Belts" cower out to Tamina. "The Islander" tried to contend with Alexa Bliss, drilling her with a headbutt and an over-shoulder backbreaker, though as Bayley gave her partner marching orders, "Little Miss Bliss" fired back with dropkicks and a somersault neckbreaker! Blissful Stomps connected in the corner, when Tamina tagged out to Bayley! Furious, Bayley connected with the exploder suplex for Alexa, when Cross connected with the Whiplash! With Bayley down, both Nikki and Alexa covered to pin the champ!

In Sasha Banks' absence, the former WWE Women's Tag Team Champions were simultaneously able to score a pinfall win over the SmackDown Women's Champion Bayley! Tamina slid back into the ring moments too late, as Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross celebrated with a big hug. "Bayley 2 Belts" rolled out to the floor in disappointment, leaving Tamina devastated by what happened. Looking to even the score, she looked for a double clothesline just for the two besties to drill "the Bouncer" with a double DDT! Bayley was distraught on the rampway, unable to comprehend that she had been beaten!

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A replay aired, taken from last month on Friday Night SmackDown. In the fallout of the Lumberjack match where Bayley defeating her to retain the SmackDown Women's Championship, exclusive footage aired with permission from "the First Lady". Lacey Evans was shown to be inconsolable as she returned backstage to the WWE Permission Center. Breaking down on the concrete floor, with her head buried in her arms, Evans' was approached by several WWE producers and backstage officials who each tried to comfort her. A graphic soon followed, advertising her sit-down interview with Renee Young - still to come tonight.

  • Tonight - Renee Young conducts a sit-down interview with Lacey Evans

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A Survivor
Earlier today, Renee Young of FS1's 'WWE Backstage' sat down in-studio with her special guest Lacey Evans. Upon reviewing the material permitted by "the First Lady" to be shown, Renee wished to understand more about her mindset following her issues with Bayley. Lacey commented that it took a great deal to throw her through a loop. Her relationship with her father was well-documented, and how it drove her to want to succeed a fruitful life. All of what Bayley and Sasha Banks both dragged to the surface involving her history - a home life torn by alcoholism, depression and drug use - it raised to her so many flags about her past that she didn't even know existed. Young concurred it may have brought to light underlying issues Lacey didn't know existed, and Lacey nodded in affirmation. When asked about her life in the Marines. Lacey explained her past life as a military officer, but her heart was set on the thing her father never capitalized on: competing. So she wrestled, and she strived.

Finally, she made it here to the WWE - the promised land her Dad would have loved to have seen her compete. Renee Young asked Lacey Evans if she felt prideful knowing exactly how far she had come, and "the First Lady" emotionally held back tears. With a single tear on her cheek, a proud Lacey took the time to consider her journey, and how with the losses to Bayley - she thought her career was done. But it wasn't over yet, because it had barely begun. Evans claimed she would continue to keep going on her journey because she was proud of the career and life she had carved out for herself. After everything she had done, she would come back from these setbacks. Why? Because she was a survivor. Renee thanked Lacey for her time with a big hug, telling her to stay strong and kick butt.

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4) Sonya Deville def. Carmella (4:00)
- The violence in which Sonya Deville was capable of was on full display in the days coming out of Backlash, where she not only defeated ex-best friend Mandy Rose, but sidelined her with a shoulder injury. "The Law" was tested by Carmella, who challenged her to this match, and after a brief flurry of offense including a monkey flip into a Lou Thesz press, and a sit-out mat slam, Deville was quick to roll out to safety. "The Princess of Staten Island" pursued, when Deville cut her off with a spinebuster! Mounted punches saw Sonya deliver body blows in the corner, when a series of knee lifts to the chest knocked the wind out of 'Mella. A bodyscissors went applied, but Carm' used her athleticism to break out, connecting with the 'Mella Go Round! The Princess Kick went blocked and the Hellevator connected, before Sonya applied the bridging armbar responsible for sidelining Mandy! Carmella had no choice but to tap!

"The Law" had been declared on Friday Night SmackDown, as Sonya Deville celebrated her victory - by immediately heading back over to Carmella and re-applying the bridging armbar! "The Princess of Staten Island" could not do much more than tap all over again, as the official was finally able to break Deville away from 'Mella. Deville left proudly, relaying a direct message through the lens of the camera to her ex-best friend Mandy Rose - imploring her to stay far, far away!

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The SmackDown Tag Team Champions Heavy Machinery were in the catering area backstage, where a tuxedo-shirt-clad Otis chowed down on a bowl of noodles. Tucker recapped their luck last week, not only beating John Morrison and the Miz twice - but causing their downfall! Otis grunted through his food as "Tucky" rejoiced at their reign of terror being over. "The Blue Collar Boys" were on cloud nine, though a sorrowful Otis wished that Mandy Rose was here. Tucker assured they would be reunited soon enough, when into frame walked Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura. "The Swiss Cyborg" remarked to his partner who it was - the two chumps they would be taking the gold from. "The Artist" expressed in broken English that Otis looked like a certain Cookie Monster, incensing the champs. Heavy Machinery told Cesaro and Nakamura those were fighting words, but Shin told the "fat men" to calm down and watch them beat the New Day. Taking off for the ring, they were up next!

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The Boss and No Hug Connection
Tamina shook her head in annoyance at what transpired earlier tonight. Into the room stormed Bayley, who threw down the SmackDown Women's Championship and WWE Women's Tag Team Championship gold, turning to confront "the Bouncer" with rage! Bayley could not understand how Tamina had been a WWE Superstar for the better part of a decade, but had done absolutely nothing but lose, choke and blow every opportunity that came her way! Tamina remained tight-lipped and silent as "Bayley 2 Belts" dressed her down, claiming if Sasha Banks didn't hold so much loyalty to her, she'd pull all of the strings in her power to make sure "the Islander" was out on her butt. As Tamina took her dressing down from the double-champ, Sasha Banks was spotted on the other side of the door - but this week, "the Legit Boss" entered in defense of her longtime friend! Bayley could not believe her BFF was here all along, but as she tried to backtrack and compliment the great trailblazer Tamina was, Banks stormed out!

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5) Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura def. The New Day (11:19) [THROUGH THE BREAK]
- With the ban lifted on the New Day being eligible to challenge for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship, the confrontation last week by Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura of the Artist Collective appeared to be a sign that the route to Heavy Machinery started through them. Kofi Kingston and Big E showed perfect tag team chemistry early, as a roundhouse back kick from Kofi allowed Big E to blast through "the Artist" with a body block! The New Day were feeling it, when Kofi performed the epic Trust Fall plancha to the floor, wiping out Shin and "the Swiss Cyborg!" The New Day continued their gyrations, as Big E caught Cesaro as he attempted a big boot - an exploder belly-to-belly suplex taking the European down for a near fall! The Artist Collective members were forced to regroup at ringside, as the former eight-time WWE Tag Team Champions had the WWE Universe in the palms of their hands!
- The action continued with Big E being struck with a striking combination from "the King of Strong Style". Shinsuke Nakamura delivered Bad Vibrations to him, as Kofi Kingston reached for the tag. Big E looked to fight free, only to be cut off by Cesaro, taking him down with a scoop powerslam! The strength of Cesaro was astonishing, as a deadlift gutwrench suplex took Big E hurdling across the ring. Finally Big E battled both opponents with a double tackle, when a military press slam saw "the Swiss Cyborg" sent airborne into the arms of Nakamura! Kofi lept to action, with clotheslines and diving crossbodies connected. A monkey flip saw Cesaro land on his feet, only to collide into Shin! The Boom Drop connected on both men, when Big E set up for the Midnight Hour. Kofi went up top, but Cesaro would distract the referee. Suddenly, Sheamus came out of nowhere, striking Big E with the Brogue Kick! Kofi pursued "the Celtic Warrior" only to be taken out with the Kinshasa - giving Nakamura the win!

In the absence of Sami Zayn, the Artist Collective secured a major victory tonight against the New Day. Cesaro and Shinsuke Nakamura stood tall over Big E and Kofi Kingston, as Sheamus curiously spectated from ringside. "The Swiss Cyborg" suddenly targeted Kofi, planting him with the Neutralizer for good measure! As "the Artist" performed Bad Vibrations to Big E in the corner, Sheamus joined the two in the ring and hugged them each - an apparent new alliance formed. Finally, the SmackDown Tag Team Champions Heavy Machinery came stomping down the rampway, though upon entry, Sheamus simply greeted "the Blue Collar Boys!" Sheamus, Cesaro and Shinsuke departed, leaving Otis and Tucker to check on the New Day.

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With last week's eerie confrontation with Bray Wyatt playing in the back of his mind, the WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy had arrived at the WWE Performance Center. En route to the ring, the casually dressed "Charismatic Enigma" was prepared to come face to face with The Fiend for the first time since Backlash. Who could anticipate what would happen next!

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A 'Tribute to The Undertaker' video package aired, featuring Steve Austin and Kurt Angle discuss their thoughts and opinions on the Legacy of The Undertaker. Stone Cold talked about the mystique surrounding the Undertaker, whereas the Olympic Gold Medalist discussed his intelligence, and his performances in the ring. "The Texas Rattlesnake" paid attention to his WrestleMania history, calling him a warhorse, while "the Olympic Hero" compared him to Superman. Austin believed Undertaker was one of the best in the history of the business.

Michael Cole and Corey Graves spoke about the Legacy of The Undertaker, and the impact and influence that "the Deadman" had had on today's generation of WWE Superstars. Shifting gears to next weeks, graphics promoted what would take place next week on Friday Night SmackDown - including the SmackDown Women's Championship being at stake when Bayley defended the gold against Alexa Bliss and Nikki Cross in a Triple Threat match! Plus, The Miz would look to move on alone as he took on WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy.

  • SmackDown Women's Championship - Triple Threat match - Bayley (c) vs Alexa Bliss vs Nikki Cross
  • WWE Universal Champion Jeff Hardy vs The Miz
  • Duke Nese vs Shorty G
  • The Hacker takes things to the next level with Dolph Ziggler
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Meeting of the Minds

Following last week's bizarre meeting between the WWE Universal Champion and the man behind the Firefly Fun House, Jeff Hardy made his way out to the ring in the WWE Performance Center. With the WWE Universal Championship over his shoulder, "the Rainbow-Haired Warrior" climbed into the ring and saluted the WWE Universe around him before taking to the microphone to address them. Jeff opened by discussing the mind games that Bray Wyatt had long been known with. Everybody knew that "the Eater of Worlds" had a long intertwined relationship with the Hardys, much like everybody knew that "the Eater of Worlds" had a knack for getting inside everybody's heads. Jeff voiced how his meeting with Bray Wyatt last week was something that had been playing on his mind for the past seven days, but when push came to the shove - he refused to allow The Fiend to get inside his head. While John Cena, Daniel Bryan and The Miz were what they were, he was unlike any of them.

"The Charismatic Enigma" was his own animal, completely and perfectly unique, and he refused to let a guy like Bray Wyatt, or a monster like The Fiend convert him to whatever he saw fit. Jeff Hardy had the WWE Universe behind him as he spoke about enduring more downward spirals and encountering more rock bottoms that Bray could ever consider. While Bray wanted to masquerade that he didn't hate Jeff; Jeff didn't hate him either - yet he did loathe the demon Bray considered himself to be. Hardy placed the WWE Universal Championship down in the corner and said he was here tonight not to yap away - but to confront "the New Face of Fear" in this ring! Jeff challenged Fiend to come out - but inside, Bray Wyatt made his way out! In a black sweater and orange shirt, the leader of the Firefly Fun House came skipping out merrily! Joining Jeff in the ring, he told Hardy how happy he was that he was here wanting to play his games.

Addressing the WWE Universal Champion like a buddy or a pal, Bray Wyatt expressed the immense respect he had for his multi-dimensional brother from another mother! But, he had to call into question the moral fibre of Jeff Hardy, claiming how "the New Face of Fear" did not listen to naysayers and doubters. Jeff finally grabbed Bray by the collar and repeated himself - his mission statement tonight was to confront the man Bray was hiding behind! Jeff demanded to know where The Fiend was, bringing Wyatt to laugh with hysterics. "The Rainbow-Haired Warrior" had had enough, reiterating that he wasn't playing his twisted games. Wyatt continued to howl - before suddenly stopping. With arms wide open, Bray informed Jeff: he was here - Let Him In! Suddenly, the lights inside the WWEPC turned red - and as Jeff turned around, The Fiend was standing across the ring from him! Bray backed out to ringside, as Bray exclaimed "Yowie Wowie!" from the floor! As the ear-piercing screeches synonymous with "the New Face of Fear" echoed through the building, Jeff stood his ground - The Fiend here with eyes for the gold!

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Stojy

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Really enjoying the Jeff Hardy/Bray/Fiend stuff that has started up, and this recent show continued that along nicely. Also thought Miz's promo furthering his differences with Morrison was written well, and as much as I dislike Tamina, using her to create an issue between Bayley and Sasha in the way you are is working nicely too.

Sheamus potentially joining the artist collective is intriuging, and I like the idea of Crews and Gable getting taken more seriously, and getting a rub by being involved with Bryan on screen. A thumbs up for this hacker/Ziggler angle also.

A lot to like on SD at the moment, good stuff.
 
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DTP

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WWE The Horror Show at Extreme Rules 2020 - July 19, 2020
WWE Performance Center in Orlando, Florida
"The One Night A Year WWE Goes Extreme!"

"Down to Hell" by Asking Alexandria
THREE WEEKS AWAY!
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Seth Rollins vs Aleister Black


Matches to be announced.
 
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