WWE Smackdown - #Surprise
Episode - #1144
Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse - Cleveland, Ohio
July 23, 2021
Before the camera's are rolling we are greeted to a video package showcasing the Smackdown side of things from the now in the rear-view Money in the Bank! We start with the Usos! Jimmy & Jey, the Smackdown WWE Tag Team Champions who successfully defeated the Father and Son duo of Rey & Dominik Mysterio. Dom Mysterio taking the pin after a double super-kick from Jimmy & Jey before Jimmy would cover after an Uso splash! Next up and it was the frenzy of the Womens 'MITB' match! Liv Morgan told the WWE Universe to watch her, and Fort Worth Texas did with joy as Liv Morgan defeated Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Naomi, Natalya, Zelina Vega & Tamina to capture the briefcase!
The second 'MITB' match came next, and it was a moment to remember and savour for Big E! Big E stepping out from the New Day and going on to defeat Drew McIntyre, John Morrison, Kevin Owens, Nakamura, Ricochet, Riddle & Seth Rollins. Next came the Main Event of the evening! 'The Tribal Chief' and 'Head of the Table' WWE Universal Champion! Roman Reigns! Reigns taking on perhaps his toughest challenge to date in the form of legendary Hall of Famer, the 'Rated R Superstar' Edge! The video footage shows Edge in control of the match before the Usos then came out and attempted to interfere in the match, however this was thwarted by Rey and Dominik Mysterio, who attacked them before they reached the ring. With the pressure truly on and Roman Reigns staring down the barrel of defeat. Reigns would clutch the moment - hitting Edge with a huge spear and covering for the Three! Roman Reigns then standing tall raising his WWE Universal Championship in the air before calling for a microphone and asking Texas, and the whole WWE Universe to acknowledge him! To the shock of Texas, and to a huge ovation came the return of John Cena! Cena in his first appearance since WrestleMania 36 in April 2020. Money in the Bank ended with John Cena telling Roman "You Can't See Me" as the scene faded and the video package ended.
"Are You Ready" by AC/DC blares from the speakers as the pyro fizzes around the Smackdown stage. We're quickly welcomed to episode 1144 of Friday Night Smackdown! LIVE on FOX by Michael Cole & Pat McAfee as Cole confirms we're LIVE with a raucous crowd from Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse! Cleveland, Ohio! McAfee asks Cole if he can feel the energy of the WWE Universe tonight because it's pulsing through his body after the success of Money in the Bank! Michael Cole quickly confirms that he too is excited to see the fall-out from 'MITB' before confirming that we will hear from the NEW! Mr Money in the Bank Big E tonight as he celebrates his momentous victory!
Cole also confirms that tonight Smackdown Woman's Champion Bianca Belair will be defending her Championship against Carmella! Before Cole can say any more - An excited Pat McAfee is already out of his seat and on his feet as he says that he's just heard that someone has arrived right here in Ohio! The camera then cuts backstage where we see the man that arguably stole the headlines at Money in the Bank..
John Cena! The 16 time World Champion is making his way through the backstage, heading towards the ring. Exchanges with the Mysterios & The Street Profits are shown before we see Big E enter the shot with a smile on his face holding his 'MITB' briefcase. Cena shaking hands with everyone before tipping his hat in acknowledgement to the success of Big E before walking through gorilla and stepping out onto the stage to a HUGE pop from the Ohio crowd.
Michael Cole & Pat McAfee marvel at the return of John Cena to Smackdown! McAfee reminding us of his appearance at 'MITB' confronting the 'Tribal Chief' Roman Reigns. Cena stands for a moment - taking in the applause and cheers from the Ohio crowd before tapping his chest, tipping his hat and then running down the ramp and sliding into the ring. Cena raises his arms before requesting a microphone from ringside and addressing the WWE Universe!
Cena first thanks Ohio for the reaction tonight before thanking the whole of the WWE Universe for welcoming him back at Money in the Bank! Cena says he's been away a long time but that the WWE will always be his HOME! John then talks about Roman Reigns defeating Edge this past Sunday and how he's STILL the WWE Universal Champion! Cena then says that since Roman has the Championship, and since Roman wants to be the man around here! Well... My good friend, the 'Nature Boy' Ric Flair used to tell me, if you want to be the man, you've got to beat the man!
Small pop and "Wooohhoooo" for the mention of the 'Nature Boy'
Cena continues on to say that make no mistake about it Roman, you're the GUY! You're the FACE of Smackdown! But you're only that because I'm not here and when I am, like right now, you go back to being second at best - Because unlike you, I respect these people and they let us know with their hands, their feet and more importantly their voices who is number one! And it's never going to be someone that walks around here, using their bloodline to help him carry his bags and to victories!
Ohhh! A short gasp from the Ohio crowd as they chant Cena's name.
Cena then turns towards the camera in the ring, staring down the middle of the lens as if to talk directly to Roman. Cena says Roman has a chance to prove once and for all that he is who he says he is by defending that Championship against me at SummerSlam! Ohio pops at the sound of the challenge as Pat McAfee shouts in joy that this is a huge moment - speculating that we could be about to see Roman Reigns vs John Cena at your summer vacation destination! SummerSlam!
While John Cena was anticipating the arrival of Roman Reigns - He's greeted by the Uso's of the Bloodline. Jimmy & Jey strolling out from the back with smiles on their faces as if they're laughing at Cena's words, and with microphones in hand ready to retort to the 16 time World Champion.
Jimmy speaks first and declares that not even John Cena the "Movie Star" gets to see the 'Tribal Chief' when he wishes, he needs to get to the back of the queue with the rest of those looking to stay on the island of relevancy! Jey then chimes in and says that John Cena has an audience with the WWE Smackdown Tag Team Champions though and they're bringing a message directly from Roman Reigns!
It's then bad news for John Cena as Jimmy & Jey drop their microphones before placing their Tag Team Championships on the stage before running down the ramp. Ohio pops as John Cena throws his hat into the crowd before taking off his shirt and telling the Uso's to come and get some! The FIGHT is on! Jimmy & Jey have entered the ring and begin swinging as John Cena starts to fight back! The crowd is firmly with Cena but the numbers are against him. Jimmy taking Cena's leg from behind before Jey swamps him with a flurry of punches and kicks.
METALINGUS!!
Just when it was looking really bad for John Cena - Ohio POPS as the sound of Edge's theme hits the smackdown stage and out comes the 'Rated R Superstar' with fire in his eyes. Edge entering the ring and immediately flattening Jey Uso with a huge SPEAR!! Jey Uso rolling out of the ring holding his stomach and ribs. John Cena now overcomes Jimmy with a couple of strikes before picking him and dropping him down with the ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT!! Edge & Cena have cleared house as Cleveland, Ohio is going crazy for the image of John Cena & Edge standing side by side! Michael Cole quickly reminding us that these two men are no strangers to each other and have a long history as rivals but tonight they have a common enemy in the form of Roman Reigns and the Bloodline! With the Uso's now in full retreat and with Edge & Cena still in the ring. Cena and Edge shake hands as once again the crowd pop and cheer for the show of respect from two legends of World Wrestling Entertainment as Smackdown heads to it's first commercial break of the evening.
Smackdown returns from the break and we're backstage where we see Roman's 'Special Counsel' Paul Heyman! Heyman perhaps on the phone to the 'Tribal Chief' when Jimmy & Jey Uso enter the camera shot - nursing their wounds from the opening segment of Smackdown!
Paul Heyman quickly ends the phone call before asking Jimmy and Jey..
"What was THAT?!" - Paul Heyman
The Usos both stare back at Heyman before looking down to the floor like two kids in trouble.
"May I remind the both of you, that you were to carry out a message DIRECTLY from the Head of the Table, mine and your, Tribal Chief? And what do you both do, Jimmy and Jey? You both got beat up and RAN.. AWAY!" - Paul Heyman
Heyman shakes his head and facepalms as the Uso's continue to look down.
"You know what.. I..I..I'm going to handle this. I'm going to speak to Adam Pearce and Sonya Deville, and I'm going to get you guys another oppertunity to get that message across from the Tribal Chief. I'm going to make things right. You two better be ready when the time comes, because I would hate to inform the head of the table that his cousins, his own flesh and blood, his brothers of the great Anoai Bloodline have let him down! Understand?" - Paul Heyman
Jimmy & Jey nod with scowls on their faces as they tell Heyman they're going to make things right as they walk off and out of the camera shot. As they do, Heyman attempts to reconnect his call when a deep laugh can be heard that's getting louder and louder with an obnoxious tone. Heyman then looks up and sees Big E with a beaming smile on his face as he taps the Money in the Bank briefcase he's holding close to his chest. Big E then starts to circle Heyman and continues laughing before speaking.
"YEEAAAAAAAHHHHH, YEAAAAHHHHHHHH! MY TIME IS COMING! YOU BETTER TELL THE CHIEF THAT MY TIME IS COMING! I CAN FEEL IT! OHHHHH CAN YOU FEEL IT, PAUL? YEAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!" - Big E
Heyman just stares with a panic in his eye knowing that as well as Cena, there may be a new threat to Roman's Championship reign in the form of the 'MITB' winner; Big E! The scene then fades with an excited Big E dancing and shaking out of the picture as Heyman watches on before making a call.
The camera footage then returns to ringside where Greg Hamilton is already stood in the middle of the ring ready to announce the first match of the evening!
MATCH ONE l TAG TEAM MATCH
Alpha Academy (Chad Gable & Otis) vs The Street Profits (Angelo Dawkins & Montez Ford)
Summary: Smackdown's first match of the night came in the form of some tag team action! The energetic duo of the Street Profits bringing the hype and directness while Gable & Otis brought the wrestling smarts and craftiness inside the ring. A real clash of styles would come down to Dawkins & Gable as the legal men. Otis had charged at Dawkins only for Angelo to leap frog impressive overly the Academies' big man. Otis going flying over the top rope as Montez came flying over the top with a high-risk dive bringing him down to the outside. Dawkins in the ring then went for the finish - missing Gable who was in the corner with the NBA SLAM!! Dawkins crashing into the turnbuckle leads Gable to gripping him and bringing him down with the ALPHA-PLEX!! Gable then rolls through before locking in the ANKLE LOCK!! It's a matter of time before Dawkins is forced to tap in the middle of the ring as Referee John Cone calls for the ring bell.
Alpha Academy (W) - 07:37 Match Time.
"ANNDDD YOUR WINNERS! REPRESENTING THE ALPHA ACADEMY! OTIISSSS! AND CHAD GABLE!" -
Greg Hamilton
Montez had slid in the ring to try and rescue his partner Dawkins but wasn't in time and the damage was done. Chad Gable quickly sliding out of the ring and pointing towards his head and brain to suggest he outsmarted the Profits tonight. Gable then grabs Otis before kissing him as he shouts "AH, THANK YOUUUUUUU!" at the fans in the front row as the show moves on.
The Titantron is live as a vignette begins to air on Smackdown. We see a backstreet alley way, gritty and decked in graffiti as we see a masked woman with a hood zipped up over her head hiding her identity. A black bandana hangs from her back jean pocket as a baseball cap hangs from the side of her jeans, clipped to her belt across her waist. Next to her a trash can that's burning and illuminating some of the alley.
"August 22, 2009. 18 years of age I made my debut inside a wrestling ring. Independents, taking every booking I could to put some food on my plate and money in my pocket. Fire in my eyes and a desire to prove everyone who thought I would amount to nothing.. WRONG! These streets, they will eat you up and spit you out unless you know how to fight. Fighting is the only thing I know how to do and I've fought all my LIFE! I fought in the Combat Zone, I fought for Honor, I've fought to Shine! I've fought to make an IMPACT! I've done everything I had too, jumped through every hoop to make something of myself in this business and I did it MY WAY! Then I get the call.. It's the big corporation. They want me to come down and be an extra, a rose bud. Hell, I want my foot in the door - I'll do it. Mae Young Classic.. Twice! Hell, maybe they'll sign me - I'll do it.
NOTHING! Back I go to the streets where I made my name, down the road of those independent shows, scratching and clawing for the bigger oppertunity and to make some real money. Then.. I get the call. My chance of Retribution? They wanted a reckoning.. and the reckoning was their creation.." -
???
The vignette then ends and the footage returns to ringside.
"I think I have an idea who that might be, Cole! And I'm not talking about the Gobbledy Gooker!" -
Pat McAfee
"I think I have an idea too, Pat. It seems somebody has a story to tell and I am hearing that part-two of this story will air next week on Smackdown when we're LIVE from Minneapolis, Minnesota!" -
Michael Cole
"MINNESOOOTTTAAAAAAAA! We'll be seeing you real soon!" -
Pat McAfee
"Pat I'm getting some HUGE breaking news in my ear, and I'm sure you can hear it too? WWE Universe, you're not going to believe this but it appears that Paul Heyman as promised did indeed approach management earlier, and via confirmation from both Adam Pearce & Sonya Deville - We have a HUGE, HUGE MAIN EVENT THIS EVENING! The Smackdown Tag Team Champions of Jimmy & Jey Uso will get this! Face the team of the 'Rated R Superstar' Edge! And the 16-time World Champion! The man himself - JOHHNNN CEENNAAA!" -
Michael Cole
"CLEVELAND OHIO! WWE UNIVERSE! WE'RE FEASTING TONIGHT ON THE GLORIOUS BANQUET OF A WRESTLING SMORGASBORD FOR THE AGES! JOHN CENA AND EDGE VS THE USOS! UNBELIEVABLE!" -
Pat McAfee
"As you can tell, Pat is Excited! I'm excited! This to come and more as Smackdown returns from the break" -
Michael Cole
>> COMMERCIAL BREAK <<
FEEL THE POWER!!
Smackdown returns from the break and there's a HUGE pop for the 2021 male Money in the Bank winner and Smackdowns own; Big E! Big E powering out from behind the curtain clutching the briefcase as he raises it for the crowd who respond with a huge cheer and begin chanting "BIG E! BIG E! BIG E!" over and over as the New Day member begins to shuffle down to ringside with the commentary duo of Pat McAfee & Michael Cole putting his performance at 'MITB' over and the hard work that has gone into his career and how much he deserves this moment right now!
Mr Money in the Bank then enters then ring via the steel steps, picking up the microphone that was placed for him before entering the ring and letting out a scream of positive energy before holding up the briefcase with pure joy. Cleveland again responding with huge cheers as Big E takes in the applause before speaking.
overcome with emotion as you can tell by his voice at what this means to Big E, he starts by talking about the Money in the Bank match and calling it the BIGGEST victory of his career! Big E then quickly thanks his brothers of the New Day, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods!
New Day pop and chant from the fans in attendance.
Big E says that without their support and brotherhood, always supporting and pushing each other, none of this would be possible right now and this isn't only for him.. It's for them too! Big E says but it's not just for me, it's not just for them, it's for all of you too as he points to the WWE Universe before thanking them for always believing in him from his days of NXT to right here on Smackdown!
"YOU DESERVE IT!" retorts the WWE Universe as Big E smiles before continuing on.
He says that now comes the serious part. Who does he choose? Does he pick the 'Almighty' - The fighting machine that is the WWE Champion Bobby Lashley?! OR does he pick the so-called 'Head of the Table' - The WWE Universal Champion and the seemingly unbeatable Roman Reigns?!
Big E places his hand on his chin as he pretends to think for a moment as the crowd have their say, boos and cheers for the mentions of Big E possibly facing either Bobby Lashley or Roman Reigns as Michael Cole calls either a mouth-watering prospect to see such a match for either the WWE Universal or WWE Championship! Big E then looks like he's ready to answer the question when all attention turns to the stage..
WORLDS APART!!
Boos rain down on the conspiracist Sami Zayn as he ruins the moment of Big E. Sami has a microphone in hand and quickly cuts off his own theme music before saying he doesn't mean any disrespect to Big E right now, he knows that E is happy, and everyone is so happy for him, it's a wonderful time! Yay! Everyone is happy that Big E FINALLY has his moment! Phew! But when does Sami Zayn get his moment, eh? Sami asks when does he get a shot at the big time? Sami says he's SO close to exposing the system around here that he wasn't even allowed to enter the 'MITB' match! So Mr Big, the only reason you have that briefcase in your clutches is because I wasn't in the match!
Sami now reaches ringside and has fired himself up, clearly believing his own conspiracy theory. Zayn then enters the ring and continues on.
I can beat you! says Sami as he says that as a matter of fact, he's challenging Big E to a match right now to prove to everyone that had he been in the match, he would be standing here as Mr Money in the Bank! Sami Zayn demands a Referee as Big E smiles and shrugs that he accepts the match. Referee Official Ryan Tran comes running down as Cole & McAfee confirm that it looks like we've got an impromptu match here on Smackdown!
MATCH TWO l SINGLES MATCH
Big E vs Sami Zayn.
Summary: Sami Zayn is fired up and immediately attacks Big E after the sound of the bell. Despite the quick start from the conspiracist Zayn, Big E battles back and the match momentum swings back and forth between both men as the fans in attendance are fully behind Big E and booing Sami's every move. Sami Zayn at one point had Big E in a position where he looks to land the HELLUVA KICK! Running at E with real speed only to return into a oncoming freight train in the form of Big E who exploded out from the turnbuckle with the E-TRAIN!! A running body block that crumbles Sami like paper down to the ring canvas. Big E then scoops up Zayn like waffles before bringing him back down to the canvas with the BIG ENDING!! Big E then scrambles across for the cover, hooks the leg and.. One! Two! Three!
Big E (W) - 08:52 Match Time.
"ANNNDDD YOUR WINNER! BIG! E!" -
Greg Hamilton
Referee Ryan Tran raises the hand of Big E in the middle of the ring as the 'MITB' winner beats his chest before holding up the briefcase once again. Sami Zayn is now on the outside, holding and shaking his head in disappointment as the commentary team talk about how good Sami is and could be again, but that he can't see to escape this world of conspiracy he's warped himself into and it's holding him back. Attention then turns back to Big E for the commentary team as they speculate a huge future to come for Big E in the WWE! The footage then heads backstage.
"Yes, sir! No I understand completely, Sir! Okay, Understood. Yeah, I'll let Sonya know! Okay, speak soon!" -
Adam Pearce
Sonya Deville had entered the GM office catching the very back end of the phone conversation as Adam Pearce takes a deep breath before putting his mobile down on the GM desk.
"Tell me.. What? Tell me what, Adam?" -
Sonya Deville
"It was Mr McMahon! And he was calling to let us know that after speaking with the Board of Directors that he has decided that it's time for a Shake Up in the WWE!" -
Adam Pearce
"OKKKAAAYYY, AND?" -
Sonya Deville
"AND.. A Superstar Shakeup will take place on Monday Night Raw and will finish on Friday Night Smackdown following the conclusion of SummerSlam!" -
Adam Pearce
Sonya shrugs wondering why Adam is speaking with worry in his tone.
"Okay, Superstar Shake Up! Fine! We can get to work on that.. And I was think-" - Sonya Deville
"NO, SONYA! You don't understand. Mr McMahon said that along with the Shake Up of Superstars, there will also be a Shake Up of Management and that includes ME and.. YOU!" - Adam Pearce
Sonya's face has now dropped as she throws up her arms and her tone is more aggressive.
"ME? WHY ME?! I've made both Smackdown & Raw better since becoming a CO-GM and I have so many plans, I have so many things I want to do.. THIS.. THIS CANNONT BE RIGHT, PEARCE?! YOU'VE GOT IT WRONG- YOU'VE GOT IT WRONG!" - Sonya Deville
Adam Pearce shakes his head calmly. Adam clearly taking the news better than Sonya is.
"No, Sonya. There is no mistake. Mr McMahon, the McMahon Family and the Board of Directors appreciate the job we have done and will continue to do till SummerSlam but want the draft to go back to being more strictly enforced to encourage competition, and in the spirit of competition - only one of me or you are going to continue on as a General Manager and that more will be explained to both of us this Monday at Raw!" - Adam Pearce
Sonya is now in full panic mode. Shaking her head. Sonya then throws her hands up before slamming the desk and leaving the General Managers office as the footage heads to a commercial break.
Smackdown returns to ringside from the commercial break where Greg Hamilton is waiting in the ring to announce the next match of the evening!
"Ladies and Gentleman! This next match is set for one fall, and will be contested for the WWE Smackdown Woman's Championship!" -
Greg Hamilton
MATCH THREE l WWE SMACKDOWN WOMENS CHAMPIONSHIP l SINGLES MATCH
Bianca Belair (C) vs Carmella W/ Zelina Vega
Summary: The ring bell sounded and immediately Carmella hugged the ropes as Bianca went to attack. Carmella staring early with the mind games and tricks to slow down the contest and get into the head of Bianca Belair. Carmella even exiting the ring on multiple occasions to talk strategy with Zelina Vega on the outside who also attempted to get into the mind of Bianca with some heckling and trash talk. Eventually the games and childish antics would draw to a close, with Carmella having to put her money where her mouth is and compete with Bianca in the middle of the ring. Despite an impressive showing from Carmella and coming close on one or two occasions, even using the ropes for leverage at one point before official Jessika Carr would notice and break up the count. The class of Bianca would show as the 'EST of WWE' landed with a huge spear that folded Carmella inside out before picking her up in position of the K.O.D!! Zelina knew what was coming next and tried a desperate attempt to interfere only for Bianca to use Carmella like a ram and knock Vega off the ring apron and to the flooring before delivering the KISS OF DEATH!! Bianca then scoring with the pin! One! Two! Three!
Bianca Belair (W) - 09:38 Match Time.
"YOUR WINNER! ANNNDD STILL! WWE SMACKDOWN WOMANS CHAMPION! THE 'EST OF WWE' BIANCA! BELLLAAIRRR!" -
Greg Hamilton
The crowd cheer for Bianca as Referee Jessika Carr raises her arm in victory! On the outside Carmella is being consoled by Zelina Vega and you can already see that both ladies are plotting some instant revenge. 'Mella & Vega now stirring before sliding into the ring and circling Bianca who doesn't stand down. Just when it looks like Carmella & Zelina are about to make their move, cavalry shows up in the form of the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions!
NEW FOUNDATION!!
Tamina & Natalya quickly make their way down the ramp, and before they even reach the ring - Mella' & Vega have backed down and begin exiting via the crowd. The last show we see is the three Champions of Tamina, Natalya & Bianca standing side by side as the WWE Universe shows their appreciation before the LIVE footage heads backstage.
We the 'Rated R Superstar' sat down on a chair as he's taping up his wrists with a steel eyed expression on his face. There's then a knock on the door as it breaks the focus of Edge who tells the knocker to come in. It's John Cena.
"John!" - Edge
"...Adam!" - John Cena
A brief moment of their famous rivalry flashing before themselves as John Cena & Edge come face to face backstage. A small moment of tension with enough time for the Cleveland crowd to dream about seeing these two once more in the ring one on one as John Cena then breaks the silence.
"I just wanted to come in here and personally thank you. I appreciate you having my back tonight, and it looks like we're teaming against the Usos in the Main Event. I just want you to know, I've always respected you as a performer, I respect you as a man, and I've got your back tonight in the Main Event" - John Cena
Edge nods before smiling and replying.
"Me and you, John. It's fair to say we've had our differences, our fights, our rivalries.. but I respect you too! I appreciate you coming in here and saying that. Look, I've got my own issues with Roman and his Bloodline, so I'm not going to pretend I came out there just for you, because I didn't - I'm a different man then the Edge you knew back then. Morals, principles, call it whatever you want but tonight it's my honour to team with you and take down Jimmy & Jey a peg or two!" - Edge
It's now John Cena's turn to nod in appreciation as he extends his arm out to Edge. Edge looks down at Cena's offer before shaking his hand as the scene ends and returns to ringside.
"Ohhhh man! Edge and Cena on the same page, Cole? We might be looking at the NEW! MEGA POWERS! I don't think we've seen a team like this since Hogan and the Macho Man! And I tell you.. I DIG IT! OHHHH YEEAAAAAHHH!" -
Pat McAfee
"It's going to be quite the scene folks! Hall of Famer; Edge! Teaming with the 16 time World Champion and guaranteed future Hall of Famer; John Cena! They will take on the Usos in tonight's Main Event of the evening!" -
Michael Cole
TO THE TOP!!
Before the commentary team can say anymore they're cut off by the arrival of the 'Naija Prince' Apollo Crews! The Intercontinental Champion flanked by his giant Commander Azeez as the duo make their way down the ramp to a chorus of boos from the Ohio fans in attendance.
Apollo & Commander Azeez now stand in the middle of the ring. Apollo with a microphone in hand and the Intercontinental Championship shining across his waist begins to speak, addressing the WWE Universe. Apollo talks about being the 'IC' champ since April 11, 2021. WrestleMania 37. Apollo says he's bringing prestige and honour back to the Intercontinental Championship was indeed lost before him! Crews goes on to remind people that the person who came out here earlier bragging about their Money in the Bank briefcase - Big E! He's the man that he BEAT to win this championship in the first EVER Nigerian Drum Match! Apollo says that makes him above the 'MITB' winner and the greatest 'IC' champion of all time! Crews says he's so confident in his own abilities that he's issuing an open challenge.. right! now! Apollo says it can be anyone from the back, or anyone walking the streets of Ohio to face him one on one in the middle of this ring!
Apollo then hands the microphone, his scarf and his Championship to Azeez as Michael Cole asks who's going to answer the open challenge? Smackdown then rolls to a commercial break.
>> COMMERCIAL BREAK <<
MATCH FOUR l WWE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPIONSHIP l SINGLES MATCH
Apollo Crews (C) W/ Commander Azeez vs ???
HERO'S WELCOME!!
Cleveland pops for Ohio's own; Kassius Ohno! Ohno bursting out from behind the curtain with emotion across his face as Michael Cole tells the fans at home that this man Kassius is a veteran of the industry and has had two stints down in NXT and now it appears he's here on Smackdown and looking to win the Intercontinental Championship! Pat McAfee then chimes in and says that we've had the Milan miracle! Why not the Cleveland miracle? He says what a huge oppertunity Ohno has to burst onto the scene here in the WWE on Smackdown by becoming the 'IC' Champion!
Summary: The crowd was HOT for the surprise return of Ohio's own, Kassius Ohno! This being played up by Greg Hamilton as he was introduced and with Apollo so easily hateable, it made for a interesting dynamic! The match proved to be solid with both men able to go from bell to bell in the middle of the ring. Crews of course not shy from trying to take advantage with his Commander Azeez on the outside watching his back. At one point it looked like the shock result was on! Apollo leaping from the top rope only to be caught with Ohno's CYCLONE KICK! The discuss big boot taking Apollo of his feet and down to the canvas. Ohno then readjusting the elbow pad as he signalled for the KO! Commander Azeez then up on the ring apron as Ohno would drive him with a forearm to the face knocking the big man down. Apollo had now stumbled to his feet and right into the discuss elbow smash! KO! Apollp was lights out as he fell backwards to the canvas. Ohno then scrambling across the ring and calling the Referee to make the count! One! Two! Thr-NOOOOOOOOO! Commander Azeez pulling the Referee by his leg and breaking the count before reaching in and dragging the 'IC' Champion out of the ring. Azeez then picking up the unconscious Apollo before slinging him across his shoulder and exiting to the back giving Ohno the count-out victory!
Kassius Ohno (W) - 08:21 Match Time.
"ANNDDD YOUR WINNER! KASSIUS OHHNNNOOOOOO! BUT STILL.. YOUR INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION! APOLLOOOOOOO CREWWWSSSS!" - Greg Hamilton
Cleveland boos as Ohno shrugs and looks frustrated in the middle of the ring. Apollo starting to come around as he reaches the top of the stage, still being carried by Azeez with a smile across his face as he comes around to the idea that while he probably doesn't remember what happened - he's still the 'IC' Champion!
Pat McAfee calls it a screw-job as he says we SHOULD be standing here with a NEW Intercontinental Champion tonight had Commander Azeez not rescued Apollo from losing his Championship. Michael Cole agrees before praising Ohno on his first performance here on Smackdown! The Smackdown footage then leaves ringside and heads backstage.
We're backstage in the locker room where it appears that Dominik Mysterio is having a heart to heart with his father, clearly disappointed as he took the pin at Money in the Bank against the Usos.
"Papi, I lost the match, I'm the one that got pinned, and I let us down.." - Dominik Mysterio
"Dominik, my Son, Mi hijo. Being Rey Mysterio, being your Father, my life, my career - it's always been about the ups and the downs, Son. But wins or losses, they've never determined who I am.. It's the heart! It's the never quitting, that's who I am, that's who Rey Mysterio is, and that's what a Mysterio is, Dominik. I don't blame you, Mi Hijo. We both lost that match at Money in the Bank, but look how far you've come Son! Orgulloso! You make me proud to be your Father, Dominik" - Rey Mysterio
Dominik nods, trying to accept the encourage and inspiration from his Father but clearly the loss has affected him.
"I know, Dad.. I just wish.. I just wish that I would have seen it coming, and then I could have-" - Dominik Mystero
"It's okay, Son! You have done amazing but you're still learning! And that's okay, I've been in this business a long time, and I'm still learning too, Son. We'll earn our shot again, and we'll beat the Uso's and take back our WWE Smackdown Tag Team Championships and it starts next week!" - Rey Mysterio
Dom then nods his head, more receptive and believing to what Rey is saying. The Father and Son duo then embrace as they shake hands before hugging as Smackdown fades to the final commercial break of the evening.
Michael Cole & Pat McAfee welcome the WWE Universe back from the final commercial break of the evening as they recap the episode of Smackdown till now. Cole talks about the two successful Championship defences albeit in questionable circumstances in the case of Apollo for the Woman's and Intercontinental Champions! Cole also speculates on the breaking news that Mr McMahon himself has called for a SHAKE UP! That will not only change the landscape for the superstars of WWE but also for the careers of either Sonya Deville & Adam Pearce! Cole reminds everyone to tune in Monday Night for Raw as we're going to get some more information regarding that situation.
McAfee then says enough with the Raw talk, tonight it's about the A brand, the blue brand and tonight's Main Event is going to cause a shake up of a earthquake seismic proportion! It's the WWE Smackdown Tag Team Champions; Jimmy & Jey Uso! Vs the 'Rated R Superstar' & the 16 time World Champion; John Cena! It's then over to Greg Hamilton who announces the Main Event of the evening is up next!
MAIN EVENT l FIRST TIME EVER l TAG TEAM MATCH
Edge & John Cena vs The Usos (Jimmy & Jey Uso)
Summary: The stage was set and the match was ready to go. Perhaps the biggest Main Event of Smackdown ever since being on the FOX network and there was a real big fight feel with the crowd on their feet in anticipation for this one. Despite John Cena and Edge being the better wrestlers, as a unit the Usos took the advantage and had large shares of offense in the match. Cutting off their opposition and reacting with quick tags, in and out to keep each other fresh as they went to work on their opponents through out the match. Then came an old school HOT TAG! Cleveland blowing the roof of the place as Edge finally made the tag to Cena who stormed in and started cleaning house. Jimmy & Jey bumping all over for the 16 time Champion as he was fired up to be back in action. Cena had Jimmy up on his shoulders and was looking to plant him down with the ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT!! Jey though ran in, trying to make the save only for Edge to roll in and.. SPEAR!! Edge cutting through Jay and sending him rolling out of the ring as Edge follows suit. Edge now leaning against the crowd barrier as he catches his breath while in the ring.. ATTITUDE ADJUSTMENT!! John Cena hitting the 'AA' as Ohio pops and John Cena scrambles for the cover.. ONE! TWO! THRR- WHAT THE HELL?!
John Cena & Edge (W) - 15:08 Match Time
Senior Referee Charles Robinson is calling for the bell as out of the corner of his eye as he was counting the Cena pin attempt of Jimmy Uso, Edge was pulled over the barricade by a menacing brute of a man covered by a hood. Edge almost yanked out of his boots in a real naked choke hold as he's dragged into the crowd. The camera crew trying to scuffle past the fans so they can get a glimpse of what just happened with the man rises up with Edge now out of the cold flooring. A small figure arriving from behind him as the two now reveal themselves..
There's a small pop among the carnage for those who know the names as Cole says
"That's KARRION KROSS, AND SCARLETT FROM NXT - WHAT THE HELL ARE THEY DOING HERE?! " Pat McAfee calls Kross a "Killer" and says that it looks like they've just took the oppertunity to shock the world and the whole WWE Universe by attacking Edge! Edge remains down as staff now rally around him as he begins to choke trying to catch his breath. John Cena now rushes to the barricade as Karrion Kross stares menacingly while Scarlett smiles and blows John Cena a kiss. Kross & Scarlett then vanishing through the crowd as John Cena calls for help from the back as medical staff rush down to aid the Hall of Famer, Edge!
Jimmy & Jey Uso though are now back on their feet, and they have the words of Paul Heyman and the message from 'Head of the Table' Roman Reigns no doubt ringing in their ears as they see the oppertunity and they jump John Cena like two starving wolves and begin beating him around ringside. Throwing him into the crowd barrier before launching him into the steps. Referees and staff try to stop the attack but the Usos are hell bent on sending a message and they do so. Kicking and putting boots to Cena before eventually Sonya Deville & Adam Pearce come down and break off the attack.
With the Uso's now standing on the top of the ramp looking down pleased at their attack on John Cena who's being treated, and with Edge still in the crowd being treated after the attack from Karrion Kross. Smackdown comes to a clause in chaotic fashion as Michael Cole & Pat McAfee sign off not believing what they've just seen, and the attacks on Cena & Edge.
