Monday Night Raw:
May 11th 2020
Cardiff, Wales
Motorpoint Arena Cardiff
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After the usual introduction to Monday Night Raw comes to an end and we pan across the animated Welsh crowd we cut to the commentary team in their usual spot adjacent to the entrance ramp.
Michael Cole: It’s Monday night. You know what that means. Welcome to Monday Night Raw!
Elias: And we have a big show in store tonight don’t we Michael!
Michael Cole: Tonight we will see the start of the Queen of the Ring first-round matches.
Elias: Local favorite Tegan Nox will take on NXT UK’s Dani Luna, Beth Phoenix takes on Mia Yim and in the main event of tonight’s show we will see Smackdown’s Alexa Bliss take on Sasha Banks!
Michael Cole: No love lost between those two women!
Elias: We will also see Mustafa Ali and Dolph Ziggler team up to take on The Ungovernables members Angel Garza and Shinsuke Nakamura.
Michael Cole: Big Show and Edge will team up to take on the Authors of Pain looking to avenge the Street Profits.
Elias: Plus The Hurt Business will also be in action.
Michael Cole: And we will get a Queen of the Ring preview as four of the entrants in the tournament take part in a six-woman tag as Taynara Conti, Xia Li and Dakota Kai team up to take on the Robert Stone Brand members Chelsea Green, Vanessa Bourne and Aliyah!
Elias: But right now I am getting word we are going to hear from the advocate for Brock Lesnar, Paul Heyman!
We cut to the ring and there is no entrance for him, PAUL HEYMAN is standing in the middle of the ring with a microphone in his hand ready to speak.
Paul Heyman: My name is Paul Heyman and I am the advocate for Brocccccck Lesnarrrrrr!
Loud cheers from the crowd who chant Brock’s name.
Paul Heyman: And my client, is not here tonight.
Boos from the crowd whilst Paul acknowledges.
Paul Heyman: Brock will be back soon but he has sent me to the beautiful country of Wales…
Cheap pop from the live crowd and we even get a “WALES” chant from the loud UK crowd.
Paul Heyman: To send a message directly to the leader of The Ungovernables.
A few fans start up an “El idolo” chant which brings a smile to the face of Paul Heyman.
Paul Heyman: No I meant the real leader of The Ungovernables: Zelina Vega!
A few “OOOOHHHH” chants from the crowd as Paul Heyman carries on playing to the crowd.
Paul Heyman: Now I know you are back there and I want to discuss first-hand whilst my client, the beast incarnate himself is going to do to Andrade when he gets his hands on him.
Loud cheers from the crowd as Paul Heyman walks around the ring and eventually his wish is granted…
*THE DOLL (LA MUNECA)*
Not much reaction at first due to them not being heard for a while but we soon see ZELINA VEGA being rolled out in a wheelchair pushed by SHINSUKE NAKAMURA! ANGEL GARZA walks with them as well, holding a microphone for Zelina Vega as well. Paul Heyman smirks as she gets wheeled down to the bottom of the entrance ramp. Once they get to the bottom of the ramp she gets passed the microphone by Angel and speaks.
Zelina Vega: Paul, I am a busy woman. Do you see this cast on my leg? If this was you, you would be hiding on the farm with Brock!
Boos from the crowd as Angel and Shinsuke mock the crowd.
Zelina Vega: I’ve got a sprained ankle and I’m still coming to work to make sure my hard-working clients get what they deserve.
Angel turns to Zelina and says off-mark he admires the beauty and the work ethic as Paul rolls his eyes in the ring.
Paul Heyman: Maybe when your clients become a star like Brock they can pick their work schedule.
Cheers from the crowd as Zelina shakes her head furious at that line.
Zelina Vega: Well your client doesn’t get to pick and choose when he fights Andrade.
Loud boos from the crowd as Zelina smirks.
Zelina Vega: My client is busy focusing on getting his Universal title back.
Paul Heyman: I suggest not making my client wait, Zelina. Who says he makes it to his title match?
Zelina angrily points at Paul Heyman in the ring.
Zelina Vega: Your client if he tries to cost Andrade what is rightfully his, we will take him out for good this time!
Paul smirks not phased.
Paul Heyman: You can try but I think you’ll find you will need a whole army to do it!
Vega fumes on the outside as Angel asks for the microphone and points at Heyman.
Angel Garza: You need to show the lady some respect.
Paul scoffs as Angel carries on.
Angel Garza: You are jealous perro. Jealous because myself and the rest are the future. Brock is the past.
Boos from the crowd Angel passes the microphone back to Zelina as Paul shakes his head before speaking again.
Paul Heyman: Angel if Brock is the past, I wouldn’t keep taunting him or your past will come back to haunt you!
Cheers from the crowd as Garza looks angry at the threat but Zelina speaks now instead.
Zelina Vega: Enough talking Paul. Brock wants to get his hands on Andrade? Well, Dominik Dijakovic wants to get his hands on Brock first!
Paul smirks.
Paul Heyman: Is he not here to say that himself? Or is he taking the week off after what Brock did to him last week?
Zelina Vega: He’ll be back in two weeks and if you want Brock to get his hands on Andrade, you’ll have to beat him first!
Paul Heyman: Challenge accepted. But I will warn you Zelina.
Paul climbs out of the ring and hops off the ring apron standing in front of Zelina whilst Angel and Nakamura step forward just in case Paul tries to attack Zelina.
Paul Heyman: If Brock needs to he will go through all of your clients one…
He looks at both Nakamura and Garza before turning back to Zelina.
Paul Heyman: By one.
Paul Heyman tosses the microphone behind before walking back up the ramp leaving a furious Zelina Vega at ringside with Garza and Nakamura!
Michael Cole: Paul Heyman delivering a message on behalf of Brock Lesnar tonight and we’ve just gotten word from Adam Pearce.
Elias: That’s right Michael. We will see Brock Lesnar take on Dominik Dijakovic in two weeks!
Michael Cole: Two giants colliding and both looking for revenge after taking each other out for extended periods!
Elias: But right now we are going to see Shinsuke Nakamura and Angel Garza take on Cruiserweight Champion Mustafa Ali and Dolph Ziggler in tag team action. Don’t go anywhere!
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When we come back from the commercial break, Angel Garza and Shinsuke Nakamura are standing in the ring alone.
Michael Cole: Welcome back to Monday night Raw and as you can see Zelina Vega has headed to the back.
Elias: Maybe she learned her lesson about getting involved last week.
Mod note: Expect Zelina in a wheelchair for a couple of months due to the EWR injury.
*HERE TO SHOW THE WORLD*
A decent pop from the live crowd as DOLPH ZIGGLER makes his way out getting a good reaction from the fans in attendance. He poses at the top of the entrance ramp as he waits for his tag team partner.
Michael Cole: Dolph Ziggler since Wrestlemania has been trying to earn another shot at the Cruiserweight title and has been picking up several wins since.
Elias: And he made himself involved in the Cruiserweight title match at Backlash costing Angel Garza the title in his match with Mustafa Ali.
*GO HARD*
A loud pop from the crowd as MUSTAFA ALI walks out with the Cruiserweight title around his waist. We can see Dolph Ziggler offers him a hand but Ali ignores it and signals to head toward the ring. Ziggler shrugs and does what Ali requests.
Michael Cole: Ali wasn’t happy about it.
Elias: He clearly didn’t want the help from Ziggler then and he doesn’t seem to want to team with him now.
The faces get to the ring and there is a discussion between them over who starts the match. In the end, Mustafa Ali wins the argument starting for his team whilst Angel Garza asks Shinsuke to start for The Ungovernables as the referee calls for the bell to get the opening match underway!
Match 1: Angel Garza and Shinsuke Nakamura vs Mustafa Ali and Dolph Ziggler
Match summary: Early on Mustafa Ali is in control and lays into him in a quite aggressive fashion, forcing Garza out and bringing Shinsuke back into the match. Even then Ali shows why he is Cruiserweight Champion and puts on a decent performance. Ziggler during this period repeatedly asks for the tag but Ali doesn’t want to tag him in. This eventually allows The Ungovernables to use their teamwork to isolate Ali and take control of the match picking him apart as Ziggler watches on the apron frustrated.
Ali though fights to escape as the match heads towards the finish and reluctantly makes the hot tag bringing Ziggler back into the match. Ziggler hops over the ropes and is on fire taking down both Angel Garza and Shinsuke Nakamura! Ziggler shows off some of the old Dolph Ziggler fire from the mid-10s before looking like he is going to pick up the win for his team. Ziggler gets Angel in position to go for the SUPERKICK BUT GARZA AVOIDS IT AND SENDS ZIGGLER INTO THE CORNER WITH ONE OF HIS OWN!
Ziggler gets up staggered but Ali makes the blind tag. Ali jumps into the ring as Ziggler looks confused but avoids an attack from Garza as Ali wipes out Garza! At this point, Shinsuke runs in and clobbers Ali. Ziggler tries to help Ali by going for a SUPERKICK ON SHINSUKE BUT HITS HIM INSTEAD! Ziggler holds his head in his hands and gets CLOBBERED BY SHINSUKE TAKING HIM OUT OF THE RING! Angel meanwhile smirks and pounces on Ali connecting with THE WING CLIPPER! Garza makes the cover and PINS THE CRUISERWEIGHT CHAMPION!
Winners via pinfall: Angel Garza and Shinsuke Nakamura (10:09)
Boos from the crowd but a very smug Angel Garza and Shinsuke Nakamura get to their feet celebrating the win tonight, with Angel Garza surely securing himself a future Cruiserweight title shot!
Michael Cole: The Ungovernables pick up the win in this match thanks to Ali and Ziggler being unable to work together.
Elias: If you can’t get on with your partner you are fighting a losing battle.
Michael Cole: And now Angel Garza might have jumped ahead of Ziggler in line for a Cruiserweight title shot!
Elias: Which he is clearly delighted about!
As they back up the entrance ramp, the celebrations between The Ungovernables carry on but in the ring, Mustafa Ali and Dolph Ziggler are both bickering in the ring with one another. The referee stands between them as they argue whilst at the top of the entrance ramp Garza and Nakamura smirk to themselves as we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break, we can see MUSTAFA ALI and DOLPH ZIGGLER are still arguing with each other and are about to come to blows!
Dolph Ziggler: It was an accident!
Mustafa Ali: You said that several times. The mistake was being forced to team with you. I don’t want or need your help.
Ali goes to walk off but ZIGGLER SPINS HIM BACK!
Dolph Ziggler: Without my help, you would have lost that title so maybe you did need my…
ALI PUNCHES ZIGGLER IN THE FACE! Ziggler holds his jaw and punches Ali back as the two men start brawling in the backstage area as a bunch of security officials appears to break it up with ADAM PEARCE appearing shortly after!
Adam Pearce: I am really getting sick of having to deal with this kind of stuff. Both of you go home now!
Ziggler goes to leave but Ali refuses and gets close to Adam Pearce!
Mustafa Ali: I’ll go but next week I want him…
Ali points at Ziggler.
Mustafa Ali: And Garza in the ring…
He lifts his Cruiserweight title into the air.
Mustafa Ali: And I’ll put this on the line!
Ali lifts his title into the air getting the attention of Ziggler before walking off elsewhere backstage as Pearce shakes his head and we cut back to the commentary team!
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Michael Cole: Mustafa Ali wants to defend his Cruiserweight title in a triple-threat match next week.
Elias: We will have to wait to hear from Adam Pearce later on tonight if the match is made official for next week’s show!
*NEW ADVENTURE*
A pretty loud reaction as THE HUGGING PIRATES walk out with the tag team titles around their waists. The crowd especially loves BAYLEY as always in the UK and we get the traditional sing-song for her. KAIRI SANE meanwhile gives a young kid in her crowd a telescope.
Michael Cole: Last night at Judgment Day, The Hugging Pirates overcame a tough challenge and defeated The Riott Squad.
Elias: But now they face the threat of Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler!
Michael Cole: Two of the most lethal submission specialists I have ever seen and Shayna is also Mrs. Money in the Bank!
Elias: We know these two will want to get some revenge after the attack at Backlash so let’s hear what the champs have to say.
Bayley and Kairi Sane are now standing in the ring with a microphone each as Bayley speaks first.
Bayley: Since winning these belts, we made a promise to ourselves that we would fight challengers from any brand at any time. And Kairi, I think we have done just that.
Kairi nods agreeing with her friend.
Bayley: Raw superstars, Smackdown superstars and NXT superstars. Every team we have fought, we took them down.
Bayley’s smile soon fades as she looks at the camera.
Bayley: But there is one team who took it upon themselves to sneak attack us after we defended these titles.
Kairi Sane: The Real Horsewomen.
Bayley looks more serious than she normally does and there isn’t the normal sweet smile.
Bayley: Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler, if you wanted a shot at this you could have asked because I’ve wanted to get my hands on you again Ronda.
Bayley smirks for a moment.
Bayley: Or should I call you Ronnie?
Loud cheers from the crowd as we get a “Becky Lynch” chant started up bringing a smile to Bayley’s face.
Bayley: Maybe you aren’t feeling the same after Becky made you tap out for the entire world to see?
A massive pop as Bayley seems extra fired up as she provokes the self-proclaimed baddest woman on the planet.
Bayley: We’ve thought three times and I’ve failed to beat you each time. I won’t fail again Ronda!
Bayley is fired up as Kairi speaks.
Kairi Sane: And Shayna? Just like Ronda, you are a bully.
Kairi for once also looks angry as she carries on.
Kairi Sane: You tried to bully me in NXT, you tried to bully my friend Io Shirai and you’ll try to bully whoever you cash in on!
Kairi is fired up as Bayley speaks again.
Bayley: So instead of waiting for us to finish a match and attacking us when we don’t expect it, why don’t you fight us right now?
A massive pop from the live crowd who want to see The Hugging Pirates and The Real Horsewomen collide but there is no sign of them! They wait a little longer as Bayley goes to lift the microphone up but we hear this from the titantron:
???: Bayley, Bayley, Bayley.
The camera pans to the tron and we can see SHAYNA BASZLER speaking with her Money in the Bank briefcase front and center. RONDA ROUSEY is also sitting next to her with both women wearing sunglasses and smirking.
Shayna Baszler: You still don’t understand.
Ronda Rousey: I’m a star and I don’t have to do things on your terms or the fans' terms.
Cheap heat but it works as Shayna chuckles.
Shayna Baszler: I mean look where we are.
The camera pans out to show blue skies and sun with Ronda and Shayna smirking clearly enjoying the weather.
Ronda Rousey: I’m sure you Brits aren’t used to the sun…
Loud boos for the cheap heat (even if it is true cause what is sunny weather in the UK).
Shayna Baszler: But we didn’t feel like flying all the way over to the UK to beat you two up again.
Shayna pats the Money in the Bank briefcase on the table in front of her.
Shayna Baszler: And with no Women’s Universal Champion since Becky went into hiding, why would I waste my time appearing this week?
Kairi and Bayley clearly having enough of this speech butt in.
Kairi Sane: If you aren’t here tonight, next week I want you, Ronda!
Loud cheers for the challenge made by the pirate princess as Ronda scoffs smirking.
Ronda Rousey: You want to have your arm broken? I mean it’s your funeral.
Ronda dismisses Kairi with a chuckle as Shayna finishes up the promo for the Real Horsewomen.
Shayna Baszler: And as soon as we take those belts from you, Ember better be prepared.
Oh wow. An ominous threat sent to the WWE Women’s Champion by Shayna there! The video ends as Kairi and Bayley stand in the ring not looking happy that they were not able to get their hands on the challengers tonight.
Michael Cole: I’ve just gotten word from Adam Pearce and he has signed the match. Next week on Raw we will see Ronda Rousey take on Kairi Sane!
Elias: Kairi needs to be careful because we have only seen one woman defeat Ronda Rousey in WWE: Becky Lynch.
Michael Cole: But Ronda has never gone for the tag team titles before and being in a tag team is a very different challenge to being a singles champion.
Elias: We shall see but up next we have the first of our round one matches in the Queen of the Ring tournament as NXT UK’s Dani Luna takes on Tegan Nox! Don’t go anywhere.
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We return from the commercial break to a fairly decent pop as DANI LUNA makes her way out. Some of the fans who watch NXT UK/Progress are familiar with Dani and she is noticeably dressed in a Punk-style jacket as she walks to the ring with light green hair.
Michael Cole: Welcome back to Raw and right now the first match of the Queen of the Ring tournament is about to take place.
Elias: But right now let’s hear from Dani Luna and learn a bit more about her ahead of this match!
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We cut to what looks like a street alley with graffiti all over it before seeing DANI LUNA standing in a leather jacket and noticeably wearing a SouthWales Subculture shirt as she looks at the camera.
Dani Luna: My name is Dani Luna and I am twenty-three years old. I was born in Croydon in the south of London.
We see Dani walking through the UK streets with more graffiti on the walls as she carries on.
Dani Luna: Growing up I didn’t fit in and was very much part of the punk subculture.
We see her going to a music store and looking through the vinyls in there.
Dani Luna: So I had to be tough and fight for what I believed in. I had to be dedicated if I wanted to make it to the top.
We next see clips of Dani Luna working out and training ahead in the gym before we see MARK ANDREWS and FLASH MORGAN WEBSTER walking in getting a loud pop from the Welsh crowd who are familiar with them from their time on NXT UK as two-time tag team champions and their victory at Takeover Cardiff last year.
Dani Luna: These two have gone through similar struggles to me and they’ve been helping me train for this opportunity. Tonight I prove I am inevitable!
All 3 stand together nodding as Dani smiles with them before we cut back to the ring.
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We cut back to the ring and see a smiling Dani Luna jogging in the ring ready for her opponent.
*CHICANE BOYS*
A massive pop from the Welsh crowd as their hometown girl TEGAN NOX makes her way out with a massive smile on her face. You can see how much this means to her as she stands for a moment at the top of the entrance ramp soaking in the reaction from the fans before heading to the ring.
Michael Cole: Tegan Nox holds the record for the longest Women’s tag team champion reign but tonight we see how she does on her own.
Elias: Don’t rule the Welsh Wizard out. Let’s hear what she had to say ahead of this match.
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We cut to a shot of the Principality stadium on a nice sunny day before panning out to see TEGAN NOX hanging out with her tag team partner and best friend DAKOTA KAI! Both have a smile on their face as Tegan looks at the camera.
Tegan Nox: Getting to wrestle on Monday Night Raw in front of a Welsh crowd is something I could have only dreamed of as a kid.
Tegan smiles as Kai looks on sitting on the railing they are by as she carries on.
Tegan Nox: And now I have not only the chance to do it but the chance to redeem myself.
Dakota Kai: Tegan, injuries can happen to anyone. We both know that.
Tegan shakes her head.
Tegan Nox: But when it happened?
We see a clip of her getting injured in the Mae Young Classic whilst fighting Rhea Ripley before cutting back to Tegan.
Tegan Nox: I know I could have won that tournament and now? I’m going to make up for it by winning this.
Kai smiles before getting up.
Dakota Kai: Well, you’ll have to go through me in the Quarterfinals.
Kai sticks her hand out as Tegan smirks and grabs it.
Tegan Nox: I’ll kick your ass.
Both women smile and there is clear determination between the two women before we cut back to the ring.
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We see both women in the ring as they both walk toward one another meeting in the middle of the ring and the duo shares a handshake showing respect to one another. Both nod before breaking the handshake and heading to opposite corners as the referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!
Match 2: Queen of the Ring 1st Round match: Dani Luna vs Tegan Nox
Match summary: Both women put in a decent showing for the live crowd, with Dani Luna taking the opportunity to attempt to impress the live crowd and maybe earn herself a call-up in the future? In the end, though Tegan Nox proves to be too much for Dani Luna as she connects with the SHINEST WIZARD and advances to the last 16!
Winner via pinfall: Tegan Nox (5:38)
Tegan Nox gets back to her feet and gets a loud pop from the live crowd as she celebrates the victory tonight, having overcome a tough challenge from Dani Luna.
Michael Cole: Tegan Nox becomes the first woman to advance to the second round and she will face the winner of Nikki Cross and Franky Monet.
Elias: Dani Luna credit to her put on a good showing but the Welsh Wizard pulled off some magic tonight.
Dani Luna gets back to her feet as she looks at Tegan Nox and BOTH WOMEN SHARE A HUG IN THE MIDDLE OF THE RING SHOWING RESPECT TO ONE ANOTHER! Dani lifts Tegan’s arm into the air before leaving the ring as we cut away from the celebrations in the ring…
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As ALEISTER BLACK is shown walking to the ring!
Michael Cole: Up next, we are going to see the contract signed for the Universal title match in three weeks between Aleister Black and Andrade Cien Almas. Don’t go anywhere!
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When we come back from the commercial break, we can see ADAM PEARCE standing in the middle of the ring next to the table set up in the ring with the contract in the middle of the ring.
Adam Pearce: Welcome back to Monday Night Raw and right now we are going to sign the contract to make the Universal title match official.
Cheers from the UK crowd as Adam smiles.
Adam Pearce: So let’s bring the superstars out. Starting with the challenger: Andrade Cien Almas!
*GANGSTER’S PARADISE*
A massive mixed reaction with a lot of the smarky fans cheering for ANDRADE CIEN ALMAS as he walks out onto the entrance ramp and is joined by his manager ZELINA VEGA who is on a pair of crutches. Both walk to the ring with Andrade helping his manager get into the ring before they both take a seat at one side of the table as Adam carries on.
Adam Pearce: And now the Universal Champion: Aleister Black!
*ROOT OF ALL EVIL*
A loud pop from the UK crowd as the Dutch Destroyer ALEISTER BLACK slowly rises from the depths of the arena. He has the Universal title over his shoulder as he rises and is glaring at the ring before slowing walking down the entrance ramp, not taking his eyes off Andrade.
Adam Pearce: Thank you Aleister. So in front of us, we have the contract to make the title match in three weeks time official. Now if…
Zelina Vega: No no no Adam we have something to say.
Adam rolls his eyes fed up.
Adam Pearce: Of course you do.
Zelina Vega: My client Andrade wants to remind Aleister and the world what’s happened every time they have fought one on one since coming to Raw.
Andrade Cien Almas: I’ve won each time!
Andrade looks very smug as Aleister remains quiet.
Zelina Vega: The only reason you won at Wrestlemania is because Andrade had to deal with Brock Lesnar as well.
Aleister shakes his head picking up a microphone himself now.
Aleister Black: Is that so?
A rare laugh comes from Black before he carries on.
Aleister Black: I thought it was because the rest of the Ungovernables were banned from ringside.
Cheers from the crowd as Andrade furiously shakes his head and Zelina looks to carry on.
Zelina Vega: Andrade doesn’t need help to win…
Aleister Black: Then prove it.
Black is leaning across the table and Andrade gets up to get in his face.
Andrade Cien Almas: What do I need to prove?
Aleister Black: That you can beat me alone.
Neither man breaks eye contact with the two rivals in each other's faces now.
Aleister Black: The only thing that changed between NXT and Raw is now each time we fought one on one, someone helped you beat me.
Andrade looks like he is about to explode.
Andrade Cien Almas: I don’t need anyone. I can beat you myself.
Aleister Black: Then let’s make it official.
Zelina looks wary but Andrade nods.
Andrade Cien Almas: Deal.
Black goes to sign the contract having got what he wants but ANDRADE GRABS HIS HAND STOPPING HIM!
Andrade Cien Almas: No one will get involved when we fight even Zelina… if I pick the stipulation for the match.
Black pauses for a moment looking wary and the smile returns to the face of Zelina.
Aleister Black: Deal.
Andrade removes his hand from Black’s arm and smirks.
Andrade Cien Almas: Our match in three weeks will be a sixty-minute Ironman match!
A loud pop from the live crowd as a big stipulation has been added to the title match in three weeks. Andrade signs the contract before looking at Black who after some thinking signs the contract as well! Adam picks up the contract and lifts it into the air standing in between both Black and Andrade but behind them.
Adam Pearce: It’s official. In three weeks in Iowa, we will see Aleister Black versus Andrade Cien Almas for the Universal title in a sixty-minute Ironman match!
Loud cheers from the crowd as both men stay in the ring staring each other down, neither backing down as we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break we can see THE B-TEAM standing in the ring ready for action.
*IT’S TIME*
Boos from the crowd as THE HURT BUSINESS walks out led by MVP. A few fans do chant for ISAIAH “SWERVE” SCOTT who has his usual cocky swagger whilst LIO RUSH still seems wary of MVP as they head to the ring.
Michael Cole: Welcome back to Monday Night Raw and right now we are going to see The Hurt Business in tag team action together for the first time.
Elias: We’ve seen what they can do against each other but can they gel quickly as a team?
Michael Cole: It’s easy to forget but the B-Team are former tag team champions.
Elias: And a win here for them might put them back into the tag team titles picture.
Outside the ring, MVP tells Swerve to start the match whilst Curtis Axel steps into the ring for the B-Team. The referee calls for the bell and this match is underway!
Match 3: The Hurt Business w/MVP vs The B-Team
Match summary: Swerve and Rush control the match from start to finish, showing off their skills in the ring. They are a bit clunky as a team, still getting used to one another but in the end, Swerve picks up the win with THE SWERVE STOMP!
Winners via pinfall: The Hurt Business (3:22)
Swerve and Rush get to their feet celebrating the victory in the ring. The referee goes to raise their hands in the air but MVP pushes him away to raise them himself.
Michael Cole: A dominant debut win tonight for The Hurt Business.
Elias: Whilst they have a few things they still need to work out as a unit, it was an impressive performance as they look to climb up the tag team ranks.
As the celebrations carry on in the ring, we cut backstage…
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And we can see SAMOA JOE watching the match on a TV monitor backstage. He is then approached by CHARLY CARUSO looking for an interview.
Charly Caruso: Joe I can see you were watching the Hurt Business in action who have been trying to recruit you. Have you decided to join them?
Samoa Joe looks at Charly for a moment but doesn’t say a word instead silently walking off. Charly is left standing there as we cut elsewhere backstage…
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And we can see DREW GULAK in his training tracksuit as he looks to speak to the camera.
Drew Gulak: Last week, in my home town I got a measure of payback when I beat Danny Burch.
Gulak smiles looking fired up before carrying on.
Drew Gulak: And whilst I would love to fight in front of the UK crowd…
A cheap pop from the fans.
Drew Gulak: I’m issuing the challenge for when we are back states side.
Gulak gets serious as he looks at the camera.
Drew Gulak: Oney Lorcan. I’ve beaten your partner, the one who caused me to lose. Now I want to fight you. And I dare you to come alone.
Drew Gulak walks off bringing the promo to an end as he issues a challenge to Oney Lorcan for next week’s Raw before we cut to a commercial break.
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*NUMBER ONE*
Boos from the crowd as we return from the commercial break and MIA YIM is making her way out ready for action. She has a cocky smirk on her face and tells everyone in the live crowd that she will be Queen!
Michael Cole: Welcome back to Monday Night Raw and it is time for another first-round match in the Queen of the Ring tournament as Mia Yim takes on Beth Phoenix.
Elias: Let’s hear what Mia had to say ahead of this match.
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We see MIA YIM sitting backstage on some production crates with her baseball cap on backward as she looks at the camera.
Mia Yim: I already know I’m number one in the Women’s division but it seems no one else knows it.
She looks frustrated as she looks off into the distance.
Mia Yim: I’ve been waiting for a shot like this and I will win this whole tournament to become Women’s Universal Champion.
She gets off the crate and gets to her feet.
Mia Yim: Beth is a legend of the women’s division? I don’t care about her past. I care about now and it’s now my time.
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The promo ends as Mia looks fired up before we cut back to the ring to see Mia Yim jumping up and down in the ring waiting for her opponent.
*GLAMAZON*
A pretty decent pop for the veteran as BETH PHOENIX walks out looking focused and determined as she walks down the ramp. She doesn’t pay attention to the fans looking to head straight to the ring.
Michael Cole: Beth Phoenix has been talking about this being the final year of her career for the past few months.
Elias: Well let’s hear what she had to say ahead of this match and potentially her first/last Queen of the Ring tournament.
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We see BETH PHOENIX sitting in her locker room backstage with her tag team partner NATALYA also in the room.
Beth Phoenix: This is potentially my last chance to become Women’s champion.
Natalya: Beth there might be other…
Beth cuts her off shaking her head.
Beth Phoenix: No. Not at this stage in my career Nattie. I know this is my final year and I’m not going to get another shot like this.
Beth gets to her feet and looks at Natalya.
Beth Phoenix: You still have years left. I don’t. And I will win this tournament. Nothing or no one is going to stop me.
Natalya: I mean the person in the last sixteen might stop you.
A slight jokey smile on Natalya’s face as she gets to up say that but Beth gets in close showing some slight tension.
Beth Phoenix: Even you won’t stop me.
Beth walks off leaving Natalya standing there unsure how to react as we cut back to the ring.
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Beth and Mia are standing across from each other as Mia Yim talks a bunch of trash which Beth ignores. The referee would then call for the bell to get this match underway!
Match 4: Queen of the Ring 1st Round match: Beth Phoenix vs Mia Yim
Match summary: Mia early on is in control of the match, which only seems to frustrate the veteran and inflate the ego of Mia Yim. Throughout the match, Mia taunts Beth and mocks her telling her that time is running out. Beth eventually loses her temper with it sending Mia into the corner and battering her, nearly getting DQ’d but breaks on the count of 5. From there Beth gives Mia a lesson in why you don’t run your mouth as she tosses her around with ease. Mia is struggling to stay alive and even has to try to resort to an EYE RAKE to stay alive.
She gets a warning from the referee for her actions but Mia doesn’t care as she looks to put away Beth hitting SEOUL FOOD! She makes the cover 1 2 BETH KICKS OUT! Beth refuses to give up on winning Queen of the Ring! Mia loses her temper and goes to the corner messing with the turnbuckle pad taking it off! The referee tells her off but goes to fix it, allowing MIA TO PULL OUT A METAL CHAIN. She wraps it around her fist and goes to swing BUT BETH CATCHES HER FIST AND HEADBUTTS HER! Beth spins Mia around and SLAMS HER DOWN WITH THE GLAM SLAM! Beth shouts for the ref to turn around and makes the cover 1 2 3 BETH ADVANCES TO THE LAST 16!
Winner via pinfall: Beth Phoenix (8:30)
A pretty decent pop from the fans in attendance as Beth gets to her feet and celebrates a hard-fought win tonight. Beth has a big smile on her face and she is one step closer to potentially becoming Women’s Universal Champion and being a five-time champion.
Michael Cole: Beth advances to the last sixteen but not without one hell of a fight from Mia Yim.
Elias: And now she faces either her tag team partner Natalya or Tamina in the last sixteen.
Beth carries on the celebration in the middle of the ring as we cut to the backstage area…
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As we can see a smiling NATALYA watching the match backstage before being approached by RENEE YOUNG looking for an interview.
Renee Young: Nattie, your best friend just picked up the win and now is in the second round of Queen of the Ring. How are you feeling?
Nattie takes a moment before speaking as she smiles.
Natalya: I’m proud and happy for her. One of the Divas of Doom will win this tournament and become Queen of the Ring.
Renee Young: Speaking of that, how do you feel about potentially having to defeat her to advance if you make the last sixteen?
Before Natalya can respond TAMINA walks into the shot and stands over Natalya glaring at her because no one is meaner than Tamina.
Tamina: Don’t worry about making it to the next round. You won’t even make it out of next week.
Short and sweet from Tamina who walks off as Natalya shakes her head and we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break, we can see ONEY LORCAN and DANNY BURCH standing backstage with neither man looking happy.
Oney Lorcan: You want to issue a challenge to me Drew? You want to fight me.
Oney shakes his head as Danny speaks.
Danny Burch: You got lucky last week and you won’t get lucky again!
Oney Lorcan: I’ll fight you next week and I’ll beat you again just like I did last time.
He points at Danny.
Oney Lorcan: And he’ll stay backstage so you have no excuses!
The promo comes to an end with The One Twos glaring at the camera and we cut back to the commentary team at ringside.
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Michael Cole: I’ve got confirmation from our commissioner and we will see Drew Gulak take on Oney Lorcan in singles action next week.
Elias: The Cruiserweight division carries on hotting up and I feel whoever wins might be in line for a future title shot.
*ELITE*
A loud pop from the live crowd as CHAD GABLE makes his way out in an Olympic-style tracksuit and The United States title around his waist. The pop gets even louder as KURT ANGLE walks out and we even get a “YOU SUCK” chant as well bringing a smile to both men’s faces as they head to the ring.
Michael Cole: It looks like we are going to hear from our United States Champion!
Elias: Chad Gable is a fighting champion and is always looking for his next challenger.
Michael Cole: And after overcoming Dominik Dijakovic, who is next in line?
Elias: Maybe we are about to find this out?
Chad Gable and Kurt Angle both step into the ring each with microphones in their hands as they look to speak.
Kurt Angle: Cardiff, it is great to be back in this great city.
A massive cheap pop but Kurt smiles as he carries on.
Kurt Angle: Before I came back to WWE, wrestling up and down this country including in cities like this was great. And you fans made it that way.
Another cheap pop but Kurt is clearly speaking from the heart.
Kurt Angle: And whilst my in-ring days are over, I’m here to guide the future.
He nods before letting Chad Gable speak who smiles at his mentor.
Chad Gable: Thank you Kurt for everything.
Kurt smiles like a proud dad as Chad turns back to the fans in the live crowd.
Chad Gable: Fighting in front of fans like you, helps me give this title the prestige it deserves.
Another cheap pop but slightly quieter as Chad is not Kurt Angle.
Chad Gable: But I currently find myself without a challenger and I want to know who is going to fight me for this next.
Cheers from the crowd ready to see who Gable is going to fight next.
Chad Gable: So who is going to step up next? I want to know who wants a shot at this title. Who is back there…
*#MMMGORGEOUS*
A decent pop from the live crowd as TYLER BREEZE walks out with a microphone in hand. Prince Pretty has a smile on his face as he looks at the live crowd.
Tyler Breeze: As a supermodel, it’s always great to have adoring fans wherever I go.
A cheap pop from the crowd as Tyler Breeze carries on walking to the ring.
Tyler Breeze: And as a supermodel, I am always looking for the newest accessory.
Breeze gets to the ring apron and climbs into the ring joining Gable and Angle as he looks at the United States title.
Tyler Breeze: One thing I’ve never been able to have around my waist in WWE is gold and it’s time for that to change.
Cheers from the crowd for the fired-up Breeze as Gable nods and starts to take off his tracksuit!
Chad Gable: Well let’s do this…
*WEEKEND ROCKSTAR*
A loud pop as the Scottish Supernova NOAM DAR makes his way out with a microphone in hand. He looks at the fans in the crowd smiling before pointing at them.
Noam Dar: Whoa whoa whoa. Dafties. Who do they think they are not directly asking me for a title shot?
The crowd starts up a chant singing along to Noam Dar’s name in the tune of the Star Wars theme which brings a smile to his face as he looks at them.
Noam Dar: And you dafties?
He points at the crowd making it clear he is insulting them.
Noam Dar: I’m glad I went over to the states too so I didn’t have to listen to your bad attempts at karaoke.
And the cheers turn to boos now! Noam smirks as he walks towards the ring and climbs inside joining Breeze, Angle, and Gable in the ring.
Noam Dar: If anyone should be getting a shot at that title, it is me.
Breeze steps forward getting in Dar’s face.
Tyler Breeze: Sorry kid, it is first come first serve and I was here first.
Noam Dar: Just because you are ancient, doesn’t mean I’m a kid.
Both men look on verge of coming to blows as Kurt speaks up.
Kurt Angle: Guys, if you two want a shot at Chad’s title well why don’t I have a word with Adam and get a number one contender’s match made next week!
Neither man reacts staring at each other as Gable and Angle leave the ring, heading towards the back to speak to the Raw commissioner.
Michael Cole: Well, as we can see multiple names want the United States title.
Elias: Chad has been a fighting champion and it is a title with a great history. Can either Noam Dar or Tyler Breeze defeat him for it?
Michael Cole: Well we might get an answer soon but up next we will see Edge and Big Show team up to take on The Authors of Pain in tag-team action. Don’t go anywhere!
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When we return from the commercial break, we cut to the commentary first adjacent to the entrance ramp.
Michael Cole: Welcome back to Monday Night Raw and I’ve just gotten word from Adam Pearce on two matches made for next week’s show!
Elias: As we saw just before the commercial break both Noam Dar and Tyler Breeze wanted a shot at the United States title. Well, next week they will fight in a number one contender’s match with the winner getting a United States title match in three weeks.
Michael Cole: And that’s not all. In the main event next week, the Cruiserweight title will be defended in a triple-threat match as Mustafa Ali takes on Angel Garza and Dolph Ziggler.
Elias: Ali wanted both men and he got his wish but will it cost him his Cruiserweight title? He could lose it without being involved in the decision!
*PAIN*
Loud boos from the live crowd as THE AUTHORS OF PAIN march out and they are joined by their leader SETH ROLLINS and his newest disciple AIDEN ENGLISH! They all look very cocky as they make their way down to the ring.
Michael Cole: Ever since forming the Church of Seth Rollins, they have been on a tear and even put The Street Profits on the shelf.
Elias: We know how dominant the Authors of Pain can be but also see what Seth has done for Aiden English. Turning him from a loser to someone picking up wins twice in a row.
*CRANK IT UP*
A decent pop from the UK crowd as BIG SHOW slowly walks out to the top of the entrance ramp cutting an imposing presence as the veteran giant looks ready for a fight tonight. As he waits for Edge he fist-bumps both of his former broadcast partners.
Michael Cole: We are meant to be impartial but I am rooting for Edge and Big Show tonight.
Elias: Same here. And hopefully, they kick Seth’s ass as well!
*METALINGUS*
An absolutely massive pop as EDGE walks out onto the stage joining BIG SHOW. The two men share a fist bump but Edge doesn’t play to the fans, instead focused on fighting The Authors of Pain tonight.
Michael Cole: Did you hear that reaction?
Elias: These fans must have thought they would never ever get the chance to see Edge wrestle again but here he is!
Michael Cole: But tonight is about fighting for revenge for the Rated R superstar.
Elias: Edge tried to end his career as quickly as it restarted and he wants to bring the Church down.
Once they get to the ring after a brief chat, Edge steps into the ring for the faces whilst Akam starts for the Authors of Pain.
Match 5: Big Show and Edge vs The Authors of Pain w/Seth Rollins and Aiden English
Match summary: Edge early on does quite well against the Authors of Pain using his veteran experience to pick apart the bigger men. Edge tags in Big Show who uses his power to overwhelm the Authors of Pain whilst in the ring and even looks to match them. However, the younger and stronger AOP soon overwhelm him as they isolate Big Show beating him down. Big Show though soon fights through it and makes the tag bringing in EDGE FOR THE HOT TAG! He takes down Rezar the legal man with a SPEAR and turns his attention to Akam… SETH ROLLINS ATTACKS EDGE CAUSING THE DQ!
Winners via disqualification: Edge and Big Show (5:50)
Loud boos from the Welsh crowd as Aiden English runs into the ring and joins in the attack making it a 4-on-2 assault on Big Show and Edge!
Michael Cole: Once again Seth Rollins has to get involved to help his disciples.
Elias: Seth knows he is unable to beat Edge fair and square after what happened at Wrestlemania so keeps using the numbers game to his advantage!
The beatdown carries on in the ring as the faces struggle to fight back until this song hits:
A decent pop from the crowd as ZACK RYDER runs out with a STEEL CHAIR IN HAND! Seth sends Aiden English to meet him and he gets a STEEL CHAIR SHOT TO THE BACK AND MID-SECTION! However, The Authors of Pain leave the ring to surround Ryder who smirks?
Not much reaction from the crowd at first but it soon picks up as CURT HAWKINS makes his return to Raw after a few months off with injury and he has a STEEL CHAIR OF HIS OWN! He sprints down the entrance ramp and helps Ryder take down The Authors of Pain! Seth looks furious in the ring but sees Big Show and Edge get to their feet… SO HE FLEES THROUGH THE CROWD! Boos from the crowd for Seth being a coward and The Authors of Pain plus Aiden English soon flee as well!
Michael Cole: Curt Hawkins is back! We haven’t seen him for months.
Elias: He has been on the shelf due to an injury but I bet Edge is glad he is back and with Zack Ryder once again!
In the ring, we can see Ryder and Hawkins helping Edge and Big Show back to their feet as the duo thanks the tag team before we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break, we can see EDGE, BIG SHOW, ZACK RYDER and CURT HAWKINS walking together through the back. As they are walking they are stopped by RENEE YOUNG looking for an interview.
Renee Young: Hawkins it’s great to see you back.
Curt Hawkins: Thanks, Renee.
Renee Young: But I do have to ask, why did you and Ryder help Edge and Big Show just now?
Zack smirks stepping forward to answer Renee’s question.
Zack Ryder: Without Edge, we might not have gotten our break in WWE. We might not be here right now.
Edge smiles nodding along with Zack.
Curt Hawkins: I’ve been sitting at home watching the show every week and I’ve seen what Seth plus his so-called Church have been trying to do.
Hawkins seems fired up as he points at the camera.
Curt Hawkins: I know what it’s like to spend months on the shelf. That torture is what Seth has inflicted on not just Edge but The Street Profits!
Curt shakes his head and points to Zack.
Curt Hawkins: After I finished watching last week’s show, I called Zack and told him we needed to help Edge make a stand against the Church.
Edge nods now stepping forward.
Edge: Thank you, guys. You didn’t need to do this.
Zack Ryder: We want to do this.
Edge smiles looking at his former lackeys before turning back to Renee.
Edge: Seth, I’m telling you this now. We are going to keep coming for you until that church you run is dismantled and reduced to rubble.
Edge, Zack, Curt and Big Show all walk off heading elsewhere backstage as we cut to elsewhere…
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As we can see CESARO getting a drink backstage at a bar when he is approached by SHEAMUS! Cesaro doesn’t look happy as he carries on with his drink but Sheamus sits next to him.
Sheamus: Fella can I have a Guinness, please?
The bartender nods and starts to put the Guinness as Sheamus turns to Cesaro.
Sheamus: So we have two minutes until that’s ready, what happened to speaking to your friends about getting involved in my match?
Cesaro sighs taking another sip of his drink and shakes his head.
Cesaro: I spoke to them. And Zelina made her own decision. What do you want me to do about it Sheamus?
Sheamus looks baffled by that answer.
Sheamus: Grow a backbone and make them do what you say?
Cesaro takes another swig from his drink finishing it before getting in Sheamus’s face.
Cesaro: Zelina is my boss and under her, I’ve had some of the best success in my career. Tag team champion and in the final four of the Rumble.
Sheamus smirks which prompts a confused look from Cesaro.
Cesaro: What?
Sheamus shakes his head.
Sheamus: Like you needed her to achieve that. You were a tag team champion with me and we didn’t just set the bar…
Cesaro: Don’t.
Before anything else can be said Cesaro’s tag team partner ILJA DRAGUNOV appears! Ilja looks at his annoyed tag team partner and Sheamus ready to do something but Cesaro stops him.
Cesaro: Leave it Ilja. Let’s go.
Ilja glares at Sheamus but nods respecting his partner's wishes. Sheamus turns to Cesaro as he leaves.
Sheamus: Just think about what I said, fella.
Cesaro looks back at Sheamus without reacting before walking off with his tag partner. Meanwhile, Sheamus gets passed his Guinness and takes a sip shaking his head as we cut to Adam Pearce’s office…
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As we can see THE GOOD BROTHERS standing with ADAM PEARCE! However, they are soon interrupted by ZELINA VEGA and SHINSUKE NAKAMURA bursting into the ring. Zelina is once again in her wheelchair as Shinsuke wheels her around.
Zelina Vega: What is the meaning of this?
Adam is already rubbing his fingers on his temple, having had enough tonight.
Zelina Vega: Why are you calling me into here when I should be rehabbing this?
Adam Pearce: You wouldn’t be rehabbing that leg if you stayed out of the main event last week!
Zelina does a fake offended face whilst the Good Brothers stay at the side sniggering at one another.
Zelina Vega: Is that any way to speak to the manager of your top talents?
Adam shakes his head.
Adam Pearce: And this is exactly why I’m leaving this role after Queen of the Ring.
Wow. A big bombshell there takes Zelina aback before smirking.
Zelina Vega: Well maybe my clients will get a commissioner who respects them and their talents.
Adam Pearce: Maybe Zelina but until then, you are stuck with me.
Zelina sees the laughing Good Brothers in the background and turns to them now.
Zelina Vega: What are you two hyenas doing in here? Shouldn’t you be babysitting your loser leader?
Karl and Luke stop laughing stepping forward but Shinsuke steps in between for the moment.
Karl Anderson: Easy there. AJ has accomplished more than all of your clients combined.
Luke Gallows: I mean Shinsuke right here had how many shots and could never beat him for the WWE title.
Shinsuke steps forward to fight them but Zelina pulls him back calming him down. Adam though speaks up.
Adam Pearce: The reason I call them and you into my office is to inform you, next week Cesaro and Ilja will be defending their tag team titles against The Good Brothers!
Zelina looks furious and ready to leap out of her chair (if she could).
Zelina Vega: You are giving my clients one week’s notice? I’m meant to be focusing on giving Angel guidance ahead of his title match.
Adam smirks.
Adam Pearce: Oh actually about that. For the title matches next week, all Ungovernables members including yourself are banned from ringside.
Zelina looks angry but smirks as Adam carries on.
Adam Pearce: And if you try to pull what you did last time, if any member of the roster interferes I will make sure my last act as Raw commissioner is getting them fired.
Zelina turns silent before signaling to leave as Shinsuke wheels her out. Adam shakes his head before he turns to The Good Brothers who are all smiles.
Karl Anderson: Don’t know about her but to us that was…
Luke Gallows: Too sweet.
They do the symbol and even get Adam Pearce to join in though he seems way less into it than them as we cut to a commercial break.
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*MO MONEY*
Boos from the crowd as we return from the commercial break as THE ROBERT STONE BRAND are once again appearing on Monday Night Raw. Noticeably as ROBERT STONE leads them out RAQUEL GONZALEZ isn’t dressed to compete but ALIYAH, VANESSA BOURNE and CHELSEA GREEN all are.
Michael Cole: Welcome back to Monday Night Raw and right now we are about to get a sort of preview for the Queen of the tournament.
Elias: Four out of the six women in this match are taking part in the tournament though noticeably Raquel is not wrestling tonight.
Michael Cole: Maybe Robert Stone is looking to protect one of his prize assets.
Elias: Possibly and we know how much Chelsea Green loves the spotlight plus the attention.
*HIGH GROUND*
A decent pop from the live crowd as DAKOTA KAI walks out onto the entrance ramp. She is all smiles and even slaps hands with a few of the fans near the top of the ramp as she waits for her tag team partners to make their way out.
Michael Cole: Normally we see Dakota team with Tegan Nox as part of Team Kick but tonight we are going to see how she gets on with some different partners.
Elias: Dakota is a dark horse in the Queen of the Ring tournament.
Michael Cole: Not only part of the longest reigning WWE Women’s tag team champions with Tegan Nox but also a former NXT Women’s Champion.
Elias: One of the few people to defeat Shayna Baszler period since she arrived in WWE.
*NO REST FOR THE WICKED*
A pretty decent pop from the live crowd as TAYNARA CONTI and XIA LI walk out onto the stage. They share a hug with Dakota Kai before heading to the ring ready for action.
Michael Cole: Taynara Conti has been impressing a lot of people. Making it to the final four of the Rumble and defeating Sasha Banks at Backlash.
Elias: She has to be one of the favorites as I don’t know anyone in better form in the Queen of the Ring tournament.
Michael Cole: But don’t rule out Xia Li. She will want to prove she is not a weak link in this team.
Elias: We might even see either The Robert Stone Brand colliding or Xia Li and Taynara Conti colliding in the last sixteen looking at the brackets.
Once they are in the ring Xia Li steps in the ring for her team and Chelsea Green starts the match for the Robert Stone Brand. We are getting a Queen of the Ring preview as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!
Match 6: Taynara Conti, Xia Li and Dakota Kai w/Tegan Nox vs The Robert Stone Brand w/Robert Stone and Raquel Gonzalez
Match summary: Chelsea and Xia Li both aggressively go after each other, maybe trying to weaken one another ahead of next week’s Queen of the Ring first-round match. Chelsea ends up being the first to retreat and from there the match turns into a showcase for Conti and Kai as well as Xia Li and Chelsea Green. In the end, Kai takes care of Chelsea Green with a dive outside and Conti works with Xia Li to take down Vanessa Bourne and Aliyah in the ring. Conti and Aliyah are the legal competitors as she locks in the TAYLOCK! Aliyah tries to escape but quickly taps out!
Winners via submission: Taynara Conti, Xia Li and Dakota Kai (8:05)
Cheers from the live crowd as the babyfaces pick up the win over the Robert Stone Brand. Neither Robert Stone nor Raquel Gonzalez looks happy at the result as they shake their heads.
Michael Cole: Conti, Xia Li and Dakota Kai all pick up momentum heading into their first-round matches next week!
Elias: Whilst The Robert Stone Brand will be looking to regroup after a tough loss tonight.
The celebrations carry on in the ring for the faces whilst Chelsea Green trash talks them with the retreating Robert Stone Brand as she heads up the entrance ramp and we cut to the backstage area…
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As we see THE USOS hanging out backstage whilst NAOMI is watching the match on the monitor. JIMMY USO heads over to his wife and looks to speak to her.
Jimmy Uso: You doing some scouting ahead of the Queen of the Ring?
Naomi kisses her husband and nods as Jey smirks to himself prompting a response from Naomi.
Naomi: What are you scoffing at?
Jey gets to his feet and walks over to them showing something on his phone.
Jey Uso: An update from the man you’re trying to get us to be more like. He’s still in a hospital up in Scotland!
Naomi gets to her feet.
Naomi: Yeah he lost but how much longer did he hold his title compared to you two.
Jimmy Uso: Guys there is no need…
Naomi: No Jimmy there is every need because you two need to listen to me.
Jey rolls his eyes but Naomi carries on.
Naomi: Yeah he suffered a loss but he’ll get back up and get another title shot. What are you two doing at the moment?
Jimmy Uso: We’ll get another title…
Naomi: And how long are you going to wait for another match? You two have gotten complacent.
Jey Uso: Nah, we just know we are the best and those titles will come back to us.
Naomi shakes her head.
Naomi: What if one of you gets injured again? What if it is for good?
Neither knows how to answer that so she carries on.
Naomi: There is no time to waste in this business. So how about you watch me on Smackdown where I beat Liv Morgan and show you how it’s done!
Naomi walks off leaving the room and leaving The Usos with something to think about as we cut elsewhere backstage…
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As we see MANDY ROSE walking through the back as CHARLY CARUSO stops her looking for an interview.
Charly Caruso: Mandy, do you have any thoughts on your opponent in the Queen of the Ring first round Deonna Purrazzo?
Mandy smirks before answering.
Mandy Rose: I’ve heard she is a top-class submission expert but I’m ready for anyone in this tournament. She will kiss the rose.
We then hear a bunch of laughing coming off screen as the camera shows THE REAL HORSEWOMEN members MARINA SHAFIR and JESSAMYN DUKE walking into the shot.
Jessamyn Duke: Ready for anyone? What happened when you faced Ronda and Shayna? Where is Sonya?
Mandy looks furious and slightly worried about a 2-on-1 fight.
Mandy Rose: You may have taken her out but she will be back and we will have our revenge.
Marina scoffs.
Marina Shafir: I think you have a problem.
I mean you don’t know her guys.
Mandy Rose: I do. You two. My Queen of the Ring match is on NXT so I’m free next week, why don’t I fight one of you on Raw next week?
The Real Horsewomen smirk as Marina steps forward.
Marina Shafir: I’ll be the problem you have to deal with next week.
The duo walk off heading elsewhere whilst we cut to the commentary team adjacent to the entrance ramp…
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Michael Cole: I’ve just heard from Adam Pearce and he has added the match to an already-packed Monday Night Raw next week.
Elias: We find out the next number one contender for the United States title, The Queen of the Ring qualifiers carry on, Ronda Rousey is in action, The Cruiserweight title is defended in the main event and even more!
Michael Cole: However up next we have our main event as Sasha Banks takes on Alexa Bliss in a first-round Queen of the Ring tournament match. Don’t go anywhere!
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*SKY’S THE LIMIT (REMIX)*
When we return from the commercial break, we get a fairly loud pop though there are a few boos as SASHA BANKS walks down out in her signature shutter shades. She may be getting cheers but she scowls at the fans on the way to the ring refusing to acknowledge them any further.
Michael Cole: Welcome back to Monday Night Raw and we are moments away from our main event.
Elias: This is a match that many people could have easily seen as the final and they are colliding in the first round!
Michael Cole: Luck of the draw or lack of it! Let’s hear what Sasha had to say ahead of this match!
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We see SASHA BANKS in what looks like a recording booth looking at the camera with an angry glare.
Sasha Banks: What happened at Backlash was a fluke. That was a street fight not a wrestling match and when it comes to a wrestling match no one is better than me.
Sasha looks furious even having to relive the loss.
Sasha Banks: But I’m moving on to become the first-ever Queen of the Ring.
Now a slight smirk appears on Sasha’s face.
Sasha Banks: No one in this division is more fitting of being the first-ever official Queen than the legit boss herself.
She pushes the shutter shades off her eyes onto the top of her eyes looking dead ahead.
Sasha Banks: Alexa Bliss might be a scary first-round match to some but to me? You got to beat the best to be the best…
Sasha smirks pushing the shades down again.
Sasha Banks: And Alexa isn’t on my level.
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We cut back to the ring and we can see a smug Sasha Banks looking cocky as she waits for her opponent.
*SPITEFUL*
A decent pop from the live crowd as ALEXA BLISS from Smackdown Live is making a rare appearance on Monday Night Raw. Noticeably Alexa doesn’t seem to have her whole heart in her entrance and is clearly distracted as she heads to the ring.
Michael Cole: Alexa Bliss has had what some would call a quiet year since returning from injury in the lead-up to Wrestlemania thirty-five by her standards.
Elias: I have to agree Michael and we have seen some people saying she has lost her edge.
Michael Cole: I mean the Alexa Bliss of old wouldn’t be concerned about her friend Ember Moon in the lead-up to such a big match.
Elias: Well let’s hear what she had to say before the match earlier today.
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(Alexa Bliss promo got lost in transferring the show over it seems. She talked about her history with Sasha Banks and also called out Asuka for her attack on Ember Moon the night before)
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We cut back to the ring as Banks and Bliss are standing across from one another, neither woman fond of the other and both happy to talk a bunch of trash to each other. The referee once he gets them to a corner each calls for the bell and the main event is underway!
Main event: Queen of the Ring 1st Round match: Sasha Banks vs Alexa Bliss
Match summary: Once the bell rings Alexa goes at Sasha Banks in a pretty furious fashion which catches the Boss slightly by surprise. Bliss clearly letting out her anger due to what happened to Ember Moon last night. Sasha though survives the early onslaught and starts to go after the right arm of Alexa Bliss, taking away some of her strikes and looking to hurt Bliss. Both women work fairly stiffly during the match playing off their real-life issues with each in NXT during the match.
Partway through the match, we cut backstage and we can see that TAYNARA CONTI and XIA LI are both watching the match. Potential quarter-final opponents for the two women in the ring, scouting their potential competition. Back in the ring, Bliss has started to mount as fightback but Banks keeps cutting her off, once again going after the right arm but now is also going after the head of Bliss. Bliss is struggling to survive as Banks is starting to close in on victory. In the closing stages, Banks grabs hold of Bliss and looks to lock in the BANK STATEMENT…
BUT BLISS DESPERATELY FIGHTS OUT OF THE HOLD! Banks falls back as Bliss uses the last of her strength to hit a SNAP DDT! Bliss though is in too much pain to hook the leg with the right arm and only gets a 2 count! Bliss winces and knows she needs to go high risk. She climbs to the top rope and flies off looking for TWISTED BLISS… BANKS AVOIDS IT AND HITS A BACKSTABBER! She could make the cover but she loves making Bliss suffer so locks in the BANK STATEMENT! Banks wrenches it back even arching the back and BLISS IS FORCED TO TAP OUT!
Winner via submission: Sasha Banks (14:19)
A massive mixed reaction from the live crowd as Sasha holds onto Bliss for a few seconds before dropping Bliss with a thud to the mat. She gets to her feet as the referee raises her arm into the air celebrating the victory tonight.
Michael Cole: Sasha Banks picks up the win and advances to the last sixteen!
Elias: Sasha Banks is one of the favorites if not the favorites in my book. But will she be able to overcome Mercedes Martinez or Sarah Logan in the next round?
Michael Cole: Alexa Bliss will not be happy with the defeat tonight. Another tough loss in a big match for the five-time Women’s champion.
Elias: But right now the focus is going to be on Sasha Banks as she rides on in the Queen of the Ring!
The show comes to an end with Sasha Banks celebrating in the ring and shouting to the fans she will be queen whilst Alexa Bliss in the background heads up the ramp shaking her head after another loss tonight.
Matches confirmed for next week:
Main event: Cruiserweight title triple threat match:
Mustafa Ali © vs Angel Garza vs Dolph Ziggler
World tag team titles match:
The Ungovernables © vs The Good Brothers
Queen of the Ring 1st Round match:
Tamina vs Natalya
Queen of the Ring 1st Round match:
Chelsea Green vs Xia Li
Queen of the Ring 1st Round match:
Raquel Gonzalez vs Taynara Conti
Number one contender’s match for United States title:
Tyler Breeze vs Noam Dar
Singles match:
Ronda Rousey vs Kairi Sane
Grudge match:
Drew Gulak vs Oney Lorcan
Grudge match:
Mandy Rose vs Marina Shafir
Matches confirmed for 2 weeks:
Grudge match:
Brock Lesnar vs Dominik Dijakovic
Queen of the Ring 2nd Round match:
Beth Phoenix vs Tamina or Natalya
Queen of the Ring 2nd Round match:
Sasha Banks vs Mercedes Martinez or Sarah Logan
Matches confirmed for 3 weeks:
Universal title 60-minute Ironman match:
Aleister Black © vs Andrade Cien Almas
United States title match:
Chad Gable © vs Tyler Breeze or Noam Dar
Queen of the Ring 2nd Round match:
Naomi or Liv Morgan vs Piper Niven or Billie Kay
Queen of the Ring 2nd Round match:
Raquel Gonzalez or Taynara Conti vs Chelsea Green or Xia Li
Matchcard for Queen of the Ring
Knoxville, Tennessee
June 6th
Queen of the ring tournament Quarter-Final:
Beth Phoenix or Natalya or Tamina vs Billie Kay or Piper Niven or Naomi or Liv Morgan
Queen of the ring tournament Quarter-Final:
Ruby Riott or Carmella or Dakota Kai or Jinny vs Nikki Cross or Franky Monet or Tegan Nox
Queen of the ring tournament Quarter-Final:
Sasha Banks or Mercedes Martinez or Sarah Logan vs Xia Li or Chelsea Green or Taynara Conti or Raquel Gonzalez
Queen of the ring tournament Quarter-Final:
Rhea Ripley or Peyton Royce or Deonna Purrazzo or Mandy Rose vs Candyfloss or Lacey Evans or Charlotte Flair or Melina
WWE Women’s title match:
Ember Moon © vs Asuka
WWE Women’s tag team titles match:
The Hugging Pirates © vs Shayna Baszler and Ronda Rousey
EWR Rating:
67%