Mod note: Thank you DTP for the suggestion links to the themes which I have now done to basically help with loading space and they will be clickable through the text for the theme.
Smackdown Live
June 12th 2020
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
Denny Sanford Centre
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The new opening theme song finishes for Smackdown Live including the new opening video for the show. Once that finishes we pan around the Denny Sanford Centre before the commentary team welcomes us to the show. As they finish welcoming us to Smackdown…
A massive pop from the live crowd as the new Smackdown commissioner SHAWN MICHAELS makes his way out. He has a plaid shirt and jeans on plus a cowboy hat as he plays to the fans at ringside. The commentary team reminds us that HBK requested to be in charge of Smackdown Live wanting to give a brand he was never on the HBK experience. Shawn climbs into the ring and looks at the live crowd with a smile on his face.
HBK: South Dakota, welcome to Friday Night Smackdown!
A cheap pop but it is loud for the legend.
HBK: Now I want to get down to business and give you fans an idea of how I’m going to be running this brand now it is under my watch.
He walks around the ring as a few fans start up a “one more match chant”. Shawn shakes his head however.
HBK: My time has come and gone guys. It’s now about the future.
Boos from a few fans in the crowd but the majority cheer for that (shame about the Saudi tag tho).
HBK: And that’s what the first main event under my leadership is going to be about!
He holds lifts his hand up getting a decent pop from the crowd.
HBK: In tonight’s main event we will find out who will be fighting Aleister Black for the Universal title at the Great American Bash in six weeks!
Cheers from the crowd excited at the prospect of learning who is next in line for a shot at Aleister Black.
HBK: In a twenty-man battle royal!
Another pop but slightly less loud for the confirmed main event but Shawn isn’t finished just yet.
HBK: And every man in the match, has never been a world champion before!
No TNA doesn’t count. The crowd cheers from the announcement as HBK smiles.
HBK: I want to see new superstars making it to the top and grow the future in not only the men’s division but the women’s division as well!
Shawn wanders around the ring before stopping once again.
HBK: Last Saturday night at Queen of the Ring, Ember Moon put on one hell of a performance to defend her WWE Women’s title against Asuka!
Loud cheers and a mixture of chants for both women starts up.
HBK: But when you are a champion it is always about who is next in line so I had a look at the women on Smackdown and with the talent on this roster, it took me a while to decide her next challenger!
HBK smiles.
HBK: It’s truly a good problem to have though.
He looks back at the crowd before moving to the ropes closest to the entrance ramp.
HBK: And I choose to look at the Queen of the Ring tournament to see who on Smackdown currently did the best in the tournament!
A cheap pop from the crowd as HBK takes a moment to see their response before carrying on.
HBK: And the person who did the best on Smackdown in the Queen of the Ring was Taynara Conti!
A decent pop from the live crowd for the Brazilian Badass!
HBK: So in two weeks, in the main event of Smackdown Ember Moon will defend her WWE Women’s title against Taynara Conti!
A loud pop from the crowd excited to see the two babyfaces collide for the top title on Smackdown Live as HBK looks to wrap up his promo.
HBK: And we are going to see her in action right now!
A loud pop as TAYNARA CONTI walks out with a smile on her face as she heads to the ring before meeting HBK at the bottom of the entrance ramp. Conti shakes hands with HBK before heading to the ring as the commentary team confirms Taynara Conti will be in action after the commercial break!
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Match 1: Taynara Conti vs Mia Yim
Match summary: When we return from the commercial break, we can see Taynara Conti’s opponent tonight is Mia Yim! Conti is in control as we return sending Mia Yim across the ring with a series of Judo throws. Taynara doesn’t stop there though as she charges at Mia Yim and lays into her with a series of kicks, peppering Mia but the veteran starts to fight back bringing Conti down to the mat with a DRAGON SCREW LEG WHIP! Mia gets on top and lays into Conti with a series of strikes.
Mia starts to use her veteran experience against Conti and looks to take away her kicks by working over Conti's legs. The commentary also mentions the damage Charlotte Flair would have done 6 nights ago. Conti though fights through it and starts to get Mia away from her using her forearms to lay Mia out. Conti then signals she is going for the end as she waits for her to get back to her feet before grabbing her by the head and hitting the DD-TAY! Conti makes the cover and picks up the win in her Smackdown Live debut!
Winner via pinfall: Taynara Conti (7:34)
A decent pop from the live crowd as Taynara gets to her feet and carries on her recent momentum on Friday Night Smackdown. Mia Yim meanwhile when she gets back up looks annoyed with the loss and storms off leaving the Brazilian badass to carry on her celebrations as the commentary team hypes up that she is on the hottest streak of her career and Ember’s title reign could be in danger as we cut backstage and see…
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EMBER MOON watching the match backstage with a smile on her face before being approached by KAYLA BRAXTON!
Kayla Braxton: Ember, I can see you are doing a bit of scouting ahead of your next title match.
Ember turns to Kayla and smiles.
Ember Moon: Got to keep sharp especially when the competition keeps on coming.
Kayla Braxton: And Taynara Conti is in the hottest streak of her career. How do you prepare for someone who is at the top of their game?
Ember smiles.
Ember Moon: I mean by being at the top of my game myself. I know it sounds arrogant but look at this title.
She shows off her WWE Women’s title proudly before placing it back onto her shoulder.
Ember Moon: I’ve defeated Asuka twice now and I’ve defeated Charlotte Flair. Conti is great and will be a champion but right now, I’m the benchmark.
She walks towards Kayla.
Ember Moon: And the MMA Horsewomen know that!
Ooooh shots fired by Ember.
Ember Moon: They may be WWE Women’s tag team champions but whilst I hold this, it’s my division.
Ember walks off bringing the interview to a close, sending a strong message to the MMA Horsewomen as we cut to a video package.
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The video package shows BIANCA BEL-AIR in action during her time in NXT as she speaks over the highlights.
Bianca Bel-air: My name is Bianca Bel-Air and I was the EST of NXT!
We see Bianca defeating Dakota Kai to become NXT Women’s Champion.
Bianca Bel-Air: I am a former NXT Women’s Champion and I was the fastEST…
We cut to clips of her on a running track.
Bianca Bel-Air: StongEST…
We see her in the gym lifting an insane amount of weights.
Bianca Bel-Air: And the smartEST!
We see her in a room studying and watching some of her opponents from NXT on the TV.
Bianca Bel-Air: In three weeks I come to Smackdown Live and trust me, I have an un-de-feat-ed mindset. No one is going to stop me.
The video package ends as we see a graphic confirming Bel-Air’s Smackdown debut in three weeks!
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*FLIGHT OF THE VALKYRIES*
A loud pop from the live crowd as we return from the commercial break and DANIEL BRYAN makes his way out to the ring. He doesn’t look totally happy but walks down the entrance ramp with a microphone in his hand. The commentary team mentions his recent issues with John Morrison but with the Intercontinental Champion now on Monday Night Raw, he won’t be able to get revenge on him. Daniel climbs into the ring and looks at the crowd as he gets ready to speak taking his time.
Daniel Bryan: In another year, I would have been one hundred percent happy to be on Smackdown under the watch of my former trainer Shawn Michaels.
An HBK chant starts up from the crowd as Bryan remains angry.
Daniel Bryan: I love Smackdown and I’ve always preferred being on the wrestling brand.
Bryan ain’t a fan of that Sports entertainment JAS stuff.
Daniel Bryan: But my focus the last month has been getting my Intercontinental title back!
Bryan clenches his fist and carries on pacing around the ring.
Daniel Bryan: John Morrison, I’ll give him some credit. He came up with a smart plan because he knew he couldn’t beat me.
Bryan stops smiling.
Daniel Bryan: I mean when you are second best to The Miz, you know you are in trouble.
Bryan can’t resist a dig at Miz.
Daniel Bryan: Erick Rowan.
Bryan glares at the camera as he addresses his former fellow Eco-Warrior.
Daniel Bryan: I hope the money is worth it because you will burn like this planet will if we don’t change things.
Bryan shakes his head getting a mixed reaction for that line which Bryan acknowledges.
Daniel Bryan: I believe in saving the planet but my way of going about it has done more damage to the cause so I will stop my message for now.
Loud cheers from the crowd as Bryan seems to move away from his planet-champion mindset.
Daniel Bryan: Instead since I can’t get my hands on Rowan and Morrison for now…
Have to wait till Royal Rumble time Bryan.
Daniel Bryan: I need to divert my focus elsewhere.
He looks at the crowd thinking for a moment before carrying on.
Daniel Bryan: And I need to get back to the top!
Bryan looks focused as he points up the entrance ramp.
Daniel Bryan: My focus now is on taking back my status as the best wrestler in the world!
He shouts it as he points at the mat full of fire and anger.
Daniel Bryan: And starting next week, the American Dragon returns!
Daniel Bryan drops the microphone getting loud cheers from the crowd as the commentary team hypes up what Daniel Bryan said. They also talk about it being over a year since he had a shot at the world title and Aleister Black might have a future challenger in Daniel Bryan who is yet to hold the Universal title.
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We then cut backstage as EDGE is speaking backstage to ZACK RYDER and CURT HAWKINS!
Edge: I stand by what I said, last week guys. Taking part in this war with Seth is dangerous for you two and I am sick of putting you in danger.
Zack Ryder: But it is our choice not yours bro!
Curt Hawkins: I’ve said it before and I will say it again. I spent months on the shelf watching at home. Now I’m back, I’m not going to run and hide when someone is trying to cause that same pain to others especially one of my idols.
Edge smiles but shakes his head.
Edge: Curt, Zack I appreciate it but look how dangerous this place is even compared to when I was running things!
He points backward towards a wall getting even more serious.
Edge: My wife is in the hospital right now after having her arm broken by Ronda and Shayna.
A sad update for the now former Women’s Universal Champion.
Edge: Big Show is still in the hospital after Seth’s last attack. I was no saint but I was an opportunist looking to take the title. Seth wants to end their careers!
???: A man truly after my own heart.
Edge, Zack and Curt all look confused as they turn around to see KARRION KROSS walking into the shot and he is joined by his siren SCARLETT BORDEAUX (still wearing a leg brace).
Karrion Kross: Edge, I too used to admire you. Used to.
Edge remains unfazed or bothered by this.
Karrion Kross: I saw someone who was willing to use anyone and everyone to get the power he wants. The power he craved…
He gets up close with Edge smiling before looking at Scarlett.
Karrion Kross: And any woman he craves.
Edge: Is this going somewhere? Cause I can assure you if I want something I get it. And right now I want you out of my face.
Kross smirks backing off as he quips to Scarlett.
Karrion Kross: Never meet your heroes they say.
Curt Hawkins at this point steps forward.
Curt Hawkins: Just who do you think you are?
Kross seems taken aback but Curt carries on.
Curt Hawkins: I know you are still new in the WWE but I will not let you disrespect him. I’m not in the main event tonight so why don’t me and you go one on one as I make you face the facts!
Kross chuckles.
Karrion Kross: Well I am in the main event because I am a future World Champion…
Kross doesn’t even look at Curt, instead looking directly at Edge.
Karrion Kross: But I could do with a little warm up.
Kross smirks walking off leaving Edge, Curt and Zack looking at him leave all looking angry as we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break we can see EPICO and PRIMO already standing in the ring ready for action as…
A decent pop from the live crowd as THE WAR RAIDERS make their way out. Both look serious as they march to the ring ready for a fight with Epico and Primo looking terrified of their opponents. The commentary team mention the issues HANSON and ROWE have had with Bray Wyatt but they confirm that they will be focused on picking up the win tonight. Hanson starts for The War Raiders whilst Epico starts for their opponents.
Match 2: The War Raiders vs Epico and Primo
Match summary: The War Raiders batter Epico and Primo picking up an easy win hitting Primo with THE FALLOUT!
Winners via pinfall: The War Raiders (1:22)
Cheers from the crowd who are starting to get more and more popular with the fans. The War Raiders briefly celebrate their victory before asking for a pair of microphones. The person at ringside obliges and passes the duo the mics.
Hanson: Bray Wyatt!
A mixed reaction for that name.
Rowe: Enough games. Do you want a fight? Find a friend and meet us in this ring right now!
Cheers from the crowd excited at the prospect of a second War Raiders match as…
The usual firefly funhouse music plays on the titantron before we cut to BRAY WYATT standing in the Funhouse wearing his Mr. Rodgers red blazer and the signature “HURT” “HEAL” gloves as The War Raiders look annoyed.
Bray Wyatt: Hey kids, welcome…
Hanson: ENOUGH!
Bray looks a bit startled at the interruption as Rowe carries on.
Rowe: No more talk. We want to fight or we will find your funhouse and give it a Viking funeral!
An ominous threat that brings a crazy and psychotic laugh from Bray Wyatt.
Bray Wyatt: Find the Funhouse? AHAHA Find the Funhouse.
Bray can’t stop laughing making The War Raiders even angrier.
Bray Wyatt: You will never find the Funhouse unless I bring you to my Funhouse!
The theme music for the Funhouse places leaving the War Raiders standing in the ring annoyed and angry as the commentary team wonder what could be in store for them next? As they speculate we cut elsewhere backstage as...
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SHAWN MICHAELS can be seen in his office having a conversation with SASHA BANKS (who gets a massive mixed reaction from the live crowd). Before we can hear what the two are talking about the door slams open and THE RIOTT SQUAD walks into the room with RUBY RIOTT leading the way and SARAH LOGAN following behind her. Shawn sighs before speaking.
HBK: Ruby, there is no need to slam my door when I have invited you into my office.
Ruby shakes her head marching forward as Logan hangs back.
Ruby Riott: I should be next in line for a title shot not Conti and certainly not her!
She looks over at Sasha Banks which prompts the Boss to get to her feet and they go head-to-head.
Sasha Banks: Big talk for someone who has never held a title.
Ruby looks ready to flip but Logan pulls her back calming her down as HBK rubs his temple.
HBK: Enough. I’ve already explained why Taynara Conti is getting the next shot at the WWE Women’s title.
Neither looks happy and don’t break eye contact with one another as HBK carries on.
HBK: But you two also did impress me during the Queen of the Ring tournament so in two weeks, you will fight each other in a number one contender’s match fighting the winner of Moon and Conti at The Great American Bash!
A big match is confirmed for the PPV as the two women smile but still glare at each other.
HBK: But next week, you three are going to team up.
That stops them from staring as they both look annoyed by that.
HBK: And you will be taking on Ember Moon, Taynara Conti and Xia Li! A little preview of the potential matches at the Bash.
Sasha turns to the Riott Squad and smirks.
Sasha Banks: Try not to hold me down like my last tag team partner did.
A shot is fired at her old friend Bayley as Sasha leaves the room bringing the segment to an end as we cut to the commentary team at ringside.
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The commentary team hypes up the matches announced for not only next week and two weeks but also for The Great American Bash. They also then confirm on next week’s Smackdown we will hear from Lita and Trish Stratus after their win at the Queen of the Ring PPV. As they are saying this the camera cuts backstage as THE MMA HORSEWOMEN are shown walking down the hallway and heading to the ring after the commercial break!
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*KILL EM ALL*
Loud boos from the crowd as THE MMA HORSEWOMEN all walk out onto the stage. RONDA ROUSEY and SHAYNA BASZLER stand front and center with their WWE Women’s tag team titles around their waists and Shayna has the Women’s Universal title on her shoulder. The goons JESSAYMN DUKE and MARINA SHAFIR walk out behind them as the commentary team recaps what happened on Raw: Shayna Baszler cashed in on Beth Phoenix after the main event to become Women’s Universal Champion. The group all get in the ring as Ronda and Shayna are both passed microphones but are getting loud boos from the crowd which they wait to die down before Ronda speaks.
Ronda Rousey: Aw did you people not get what you wanted?
Ronda taunts the fans doing a crybaby taunt as Shayna smirks and the two goons belly laugh in the background acting like Ronda told an amazing joke.
Ronda Rousey: We warned you. We told you that this was going to be our show.
Shayna turns to Ronda.
Shayna Baszler: Maybe they didn’t expect reality to hit so soon!
She turns to the crowd as she ends that sentence and lifts her newest title into the air.
Shayna Baszler: You all thought that with these titles I was going after Ember Moon.
She shakes her head.
Shayna Baszler: I’ve already taken a title from her in NXT. Why would I re-tread old ground?
Boos from the crowd as Shayna carries on.
Shayna Baszler: When I won this title, I had one name in mind. One person to bring everything they hold crumbling down in rubble around them.
Shayna scowls.
Shayna Baszler: Becky Lynch!
A massive pop from the live crowd as they chant for Becky which brings a scowl to the face of Shayna Baszler and Ronda Rousey as Ronda speaks again.
Ronda Rousey: She is long gone and she ain’t coming back for a long time!
Loud boos now from the crowd as the heels smirk.
Shayna Baszler: So I had to think who was going to suffer in her place. And I watched the Queen of the Ring in the locker room after winning this belt with my best friend.
She points at the Women’s tag team title around her waist as does Ronda.
Shayna Baszler: I saw Beth fight through everyone for one last title reign and I turned to Ronda. You remember right?
Ronda nods saying off-mic she does as Shayna carries on.
Shayna Baszler: I was happy to let her have her moment. I didn’t want to take it away… until Becky Lynch came out.
Shayna scowls as she looks at the camera upon once again mentioning Ronda and Shayna’s main rival last year.
Shayna Baszler: When I saw Becky passing you the Women’s Universal title and lifting your hand into the air, I knew that taking it from you would piss her off.
An evil smirk appears on Shayna’s face as the boos get even louder.
Shayna Baszler: And we went into Raw with a plan. Take out anyone who would get in our way.
Ronda Rousey: Team Kick, Natalya and Charlotte Flair.
A lot of venom as she says the last name.
Shayna Baszler: And then I ended your final title reign. Your final moment at the top in your final year.
Shayna chuckles slightly.
Shayna Baszler: If you were smart, I’d let that be your final moment before I humiliate you further.
She holds up the Women’s Universal title and smiles.
Shayna Baszler: Because we are taking every title for ourselves. You can use the MMA Horsewomen, the Real Horsewomen or the two-woman power trip.
She signals over to Duke and Shafir who make sure to put a title on each of her shoulders before Shayna looks back at the crowd.
Shayna Baszler: The champ champ is here!
The heat is getting nuclear for the clear digs at Becky as Ronda smirks and looks to finish off the promo.
Ronda Rousey: Ember Moon I’d be very careful by the way.
She unhooks her WWE Women’s tag team title and puts it on her left shoulder leaving the right one empty.
Ronda Rousey: Because whilst I hold this…
She looks at her left shoulder before looking at her right shoulder.
Ronda Rousey: You have a target on your back that I plan on shooting because why stop at one Champ Champ?
Ronda drops the microphone as the MMA Horsewomen leave the ring having sent a message to not only the Raw Women’s Division but also the Smackdown Women’s division. The commentary team then also wonders who can stop them from taking over both divisions as we cut to a commercial break.
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*IN THE MIDDLE OF IT NOW*
A decent pop from the live crowd as CURT HAWKINS makes his way out to the ring and is joined by his tag team partner ZACK RYDER! Zack hypes him up and gets Curt Hawkins fired up ahead of this match as the commentary team reminds us how this came about and also points out Zack Ryder will be a part of tonight’s main event as will Kross but Curt Hawkins won’t be.
The ominous music plays and SCARLETT BORDEAUX’S singing plays with KARRION KROSS slowly walking out by himself with an intense scowl on his face. He slowly walks to the ring as the commentary team put him over as one of the favorites in tonight’s main event with only him losing to Big E since debuting on Smackdown Live. Karrion Kross smirks as the referee calls for the bell and gets the match underway.
Match 3: Karrion Kross vs Curt Hawkins w/Zack Ryder
Match summary: Curt Hawkins starts with a lot of fire but Kross controls the match. He tosses Curt Hawkins around with ease, almost playing with his food and taunts Zack Ryder outside the ring. In the end, he grabs hold of Curt Hawkins and locks him in the KROSS JACKET! Kross chokes the life out of him and Curt weakly taps out giving Kross another win!
Winner via submission: Karrion Kross (3:53)
Boos ring out as Kross carries on his dominant form and refuses to realize the hold on Curt Hawkins choking him until he passes out! Zack Ryder has seen enough laying into Kross with a few boots which force Kross to let go of the Kross jacket but he soon takes down Zack with a wicked lariat. He grabs Ryder and hits the DOOMSDAY SAITO! Kross sizes him up to do more damage until…
A huge pop from the live crowd as EDGE runs down the entrance ramp straight towards the ring, prompting Karrion Kross to slide out of it tapping his head! Edge is clearly angry and dares him to come back inside the ring but Kross shakes his head heading to the back shouting he has other business to take care of. Edge looks angry but turns to his friends as he makes sure Zack Ryder and Curt Hawkins are OK as we hear laughing coming from the titantron. It is very recognizable laughter as the camera shows it is SETH ROLLINS! He has his Church surrounding him as he slowly stops laughing but is all smiles.
Seth Rollins: Edge.
Edge in the ring glares at him, with steam basically coming out of his ears.
Seth Rollins: Do you now see the truth? Do you not see the poison you are to your friends?
Edge seethes but stays silent as Seth wraps up his short speech.
Seth Rollins: Soon they will and you will too. Let it all burn down.
Seth disappears from the titantron as we see Edge seething in the ring and the show cuts to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break, we cut to a room backstage which is in total darkness with candles forming a circle and ALEISTER BLACK sat cross-legged in the center with the Universal title in front of him. He is clearly meditating which he stops as he opens his eyes and looks directly at the camera.
Aleister Black: Tonight I find out who steps up to fight me.
Black remains stoic.
Aleister Black: Who wants to pick a fight with me for this?
He grabs it with his hand holding it in his fist, as it glistens in the light.
Aleister Black: The holy grail. Who is going to break through and try to use me to break the ceiling?
He puts the title back in front of himself.
Aleister Black: I will be watching closely to see who tries to take this from me and become the new devil on my back but beware…
A rare smile appears on his face.
Aleister Black: Whoever steps in my way will fade… fade to black!
An ominous tone as Black brings the interview to an end as we cut elsewhere backstage as…
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CHAD GABLE and his manager KURT ANGLE are walking through the back! Chad Gable is in his ring gear and noticeably has the United States title around his waist. As they are walking through the back they are stopped by KEVIN PATRICK looking for an interview!
Kevin Patrick: Chad, Kurt. I just wanted to get a few words and confirm if Chad will be taking part in tonight’s main event?
Kurt smiles and nods confirming he will be.
Kurt Angle: Yes. Whilst Chad Gable is proud of his United States title and intends to defend it against all challengers, that won’t stop him from trying to add more accolades to his name.
Chad Gable: I mean look at my mentor who was the first and only euro-intercontinental champion in WWE history!
Kurt blushes slightly as his mentee lavishes praise on him.
Chad Gable: And if I do get the chance to fight Aleister Black at the Great American Bash…
He unhooks the title from his waist and holds it up for the camera.
Chad Gable: As a fighting champion, I will put this belt on the line too.
Cheers from the live crowd in attendance but soon Chad stops smiling as THE LAST OUTLAWS walk into the shot smirking.
Bobby Roode: It’s been a long time Chad. How are you doing?
Bobby offers a hand but Chad just stares at him.
Bobby Roode: Chad, what’s with the hostility?
Chad Gable: Let’s see. Oh, I remember. You attacked me and called me dead weight ending our tag team.
James Storm leans forward looking to pipe in.
James Storm: Hey, Bob is a straight shooter so if he called you deadweight…
James takes a sip of her beer before tossing the bottle away.
James Storm: You were deadweight!
Chad Gable steps forward but Kurt instead moves in front coming face to face with two former rivals of his from TNA.
Kurt Angle: It’s been a long time.
Bobby Roode: It has. Time hasn’t been kind to you.
Kurt Angle: Maybe. I might be retired but I’m still happy to fight.
Bobby smirks putting his hands up.
Bobby Roode: Not tonight Kurt. Myself and James have a battle royal to win.
They go to leave but stop and look at Chad Gable’s United States title tapping it causing Gable to pull it back.
Bobby Roode: Maybe we’ll take this from you after one of us wins the Universal title.
The Last Outlaws walk off leaving Chad Gable there shaking his head as the show cuts to a commercial break.
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Boos from the crowd as THE IICONICS make their way out and they do not look happy. There is none of their usual antics on the way to the ring as the commentary team mentions that they will not be in a good mood after losing to Lita and Trish Stratus at Queen of the Ring so will be looking to get back on track with a win tonight.
LIV MORGAN and CARMELLA make their way out to the ring dancing to their music as they are also joined by their friend R-TRUTH who dances with them. The fans give them a good reaction whilst the Iiconics look on disgusted with their happy opponents. Once in the ring, Liv Morgan starts for her team whilst Peyton Royce starts for the Iiconics as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!
Match 4: Liv Morgan and Carmella w/R-Truth vs The Iiconics
Match summary: The Iiconics start the match off with a lot more aggressive than normal. The heels end up isolating Carmella during the match, keeping her in one-half of the ring whilst they taunt the crowd. Liv Morgan on the ring apron keeps cheering her on and trying to fire Carmella up but The Iiconics do their best to dampen the fire. Outside the ring, R-Truth becomes a cheerleader too and Peyton especially tells him to shut up as they interact outside the ring.
As the match gets to the closing stages, Carmella finally breaks free thanks to Peyton Royce distracting herself with R-Truth and Liv Morgan tags back into the match. Liv goes on a tear taking care of both Peyton Royce and Billie Kay as R-Truth carries on hyping up his friend. In the end, Liv Morgan hits Billie Kay with obLIVion whilst Carmella hits Peyton Royce with the PRINCESS KICK as the duo defeated the Iiconics!
Winner via pinfall: Liv Morgan and Carmella (7:50)
Cheers from the live crowd as Liv Morgan and Carmella are joined inside the ring by R-Truth who helps them celebrate their victory on tonight’s Smackdown. As they celebrate you can see The Iiconics retreating up the entrance ramp furious with another loss as we cut elsewhere backstage as…
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HEAVY MACHINERY are both hanging out backstage in the catering area. Both men are enjoying themselves eating a steak each, living up to their steak and weights name. Otis has a big smile on his face whilst Tucker looks at his friend.
Tucker Knight: Otis.
Otis turns to his best friend.
Tucker Knight: Now we know we are still on Smackdown we need to think about what’s next.
Otis finishes the bite of his steak looking at Tucker.
Otis Dozovic: Dessert Tucky!
A big smile appears on Otis's face as Tucker shakes his head slightly smirking.
Tucker Knight: No Otis. What’s next as champion.
Otis nods slightly wide-eyed and excited at the prospect of potential new challenges but before another word can be said THE AUTHORS OF PAIN walk into the room cutting an imposing presence. Heavy Machinery looks over and gets ready for a potential fight but nothing is said as they leave. Otis and Tucker look at each other before Otis goes back to eating his steak whilst Tucker looks slightly nervous as we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break CURTIS AXEL is in the ring ready for action as the commentary informs us Bo Dallas isn’t at ringside as he is backstage preparing for the main event later on tonight.
A loud pop from the live crowd as JEFF HARDY makes his return to action after not being seen for 4 weeks since he fought the Fiend at Judgment Day. Jeff noticeably has black and white striped makeup as he heads to the ring, with less of his dancing than normal. The commentary team wonders if the battles with the Fiend have an impact on him going into this match. The referee calls for the bell and the match is underway!
Match 5: Jeff Hardy vs Curtis Axel
Match summary: Curtis Axel reminds us during this match why he is a former IC and tag team champion. Jeff Hardy seems to be a bit off his usual game and is a lot more aggressive, seemingly letting out some anger after his recent battle with the Fiend. In the end, Jeff picks up the win with the TWIST OF FATE slamming down Curtis Axel with authority!
Winner via pinfall: Jeff Hardy (4:23)
A loud pop from the live crowd as Jeff Hardy gets to his feet and doesn’t seem to celebrate the win much! The commentary team wonders if the battles with the Fiend have taken a toll on Jeff Hardy late in his career. Jeff doesn’t even let the referee raise his hand into the air and instead leaves the ring pretty sharpish, heading straight to the back. We also cut to the backstage area as…
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BRAUN STROWMAN is walking down the hallway heading towards the ring when he is stopped by KAYLA BRAXTON looking for an interview!
Kayla Braxton: Braun, tonight you have the chance to earn a one-on-one Universal title match. Something you have missed out on for over a year, does that make you even more hungry to win?
Braun smiles in the background the TV behind him shows a bunch of static.
Braun Strowman: I am a monster among men. I am always hungry.
The static stops behind him and the Firefly Funhouse music starts to play behind him for a couple of seconds making him pause. But as he turns around it turns off so Braun shakes his head and carries on.
Braun Strowman: Nineteen other men are going to get these hands and soon these hands will hold the Universal title!
As Braun Strowman finishes that sentence we see ZELINA VEGA limping into the shot (still with a leg brace on) joined by her Ungovernables clients SHINSUKE NAKAMURA and DOMINIK DIJAKOVIC!
Zelina Vega: Braun, have you learned that WWE is Ungovernables territory by now?
Braun scoffs looking unimpressed.
Zelina Vega: My clients have dominated Raw and hold the tag team titles plus the Cruiserweight title. Now is the time for either Shinsuke or Dominik Dijakovic to take back the Universal title.
Braun walks forward towering over Zelina, twice her size before looking at both Dijakovic and Shinsuke.
Braun Strowman: Try and get past me.
Braun then SHOULDER BARGES BOTH UNGOVERNABLES as he walks to the ring. Zelina holds her clients back keeping them calm as the commentary team confirms the main event is up next!
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Ad break
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When we return from the commercial break we can see some of the competitors already standing in this ring: BO DALLAS, BOBBY ROODE, BUDDY MURPHY, CEDRIC ALEXANDER, DIO MADDIN, DREW GULAK, GRAN METALIK, JAMES STORM, KARL ANDERSON, LUKE GALLOWS, MATT RIDDLE, R-TRUTH AND ZACK RYDER!
For the second time tonight, loud boos from the crowd as KARRION KROSS walks out to the ring. Smoke swells in the arena and surrounds the ringside area as some of the men in the ring look scared and in awe as Kross climbs into the ring ready to earn his first-ever Universal title match.
A decent but quiet pop as MATT RIDDLE makes his way to the ring for the first time since being drafted to Smackdown Live! The commentary team hypes him up and reminds him of his victory over Goldberg at Summerslam last year (they skip why he went back to NXT after that) as he climbs into the ring. He has a goofy smile on his face which pisses off Kross but Riddle either is too oblivious to notice or doesn’t care.
A decent and much better pop as HEAVY MACHINERY make their way out next. OTIS DOZOVIC and TUCKER KNIGHT slap hands with a few of the fans at ringside on the way to the ring as the commentary hype up the possibility of them being champ champ like Shayna Baszler is. Once in the ring a few of the teams inside noticeably have their eyes on them as well!
Loud boos from the live crowd as ZELINA VEGA walks out onto the stage before directing SHINSUKE NAKAMURA and DOMINIK DIJAKOVIC to the ring. The commentary team reminds us that Aleister Black won the Universal title from fellow Ungovernables member Andrade Cien Almas. They step into the ring and even have an eye to eye with Heavy Machinery.
A massive pop from the live crowd as CHAD GABLE walks around with the United States title around his waist. KURT ANGLE wishes him luck before sending Chad Gable to the ring. The commentary team reminds us that Chad promised earlier tonight that if he wins, he will put his United States title on the line against Aleister Black and we could see someone repeat what Seth Rollins did a few years ago with the US title and the WWE title. Inside the ring, there is a bit of a stare-down between Gable and Bobby Roode but the Good Brothers also have their eyes on him.
Another loud pop from the live crowd as BRAUN STROWMAN marches to the ring. The commentary team wonders who will be able to throw him over the top rope but also talk about Braun being so close to breaking through and become a world champion in twenty-eighteen before having a fairly quiet twenty-nineteen. Once inside the ring, he stands in the middle of it with everyone surrounding him before the referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!
Main event: Number one contender’s 20-man battle royal:
Entrants:
Bo Dallas, Bobby Roode, Braun Strowman, Buddy Murphy, Cedric Alexander, Chad Gable, Dominik Dijakovic, Dio Maddin, Drew Gulak, Gran Metalik, James Storm, Karl Anderson, Karrion Kross, Luke Gallows, Matt Riddle, Otis Dozovic, R-Truth, Shinsuke Nakamura, Tucker Knight and Zack Ryder
Match summary: As soon as the battle royal gets underway several wrestlers charge in and all attack Braun Strowman trying to take the Monster Among Men down! However, Braun soon explodes SENDING BODIES FLYING EVERYWHERE! They all fall fly off and land away from him as Braun Strowman grabs hold of Bo Dallas and picks up the former IC Champion as he yeets him over the top rope!
Eliminated by Braun Strowman: Bo Dallas
Braun Strowman turns around as he comes face to face with DIO MADDIN! The fellow giant locks eyes with Braun Strowman as they try to power each other out of the ring. Elsewhere Chad Gable and Matt Riddle have formed a mini-alliance to battle with the Last Outlaws. The tag team champions meanwhile are battling the Club and Karrion Kross manages to score an elimination by throwing out R-Truth!
Eliminated by Karrion Kross: R-Truth
Kross turns around and gets clocked in the face by Zack Ryder who starts trying to fist-bump his face off! They battle in a corner as Cedric Alexander tries to go after Braun too and help Dio Maddin but the duo gets swatted away like flies. Braun grabs Dio Maddin before throwing him over the top rope!
Eliminated by Braun Strowman: Dio Maddin
Cedric Alexander quickly realizes how much trouble he is in and looks to get away from Braun as Shinsuke and Dijakovic intercept attacking Braun! Elsewhere in the ring Heavy Machinery has gone elsewhere and battle Chad Gable plus Matt Riddle. Bobby Roode though resumes hostilities with Gran Metalik and ends up tossing the king of the ropes over the rope but he stays alive! He leaps into the ropes and walks along them wiping out Roode as he turns around! Loud cheers from the crowd but Storm takes his head off with a superkick! In another corner, Buddy Murphy connects with a V-TRIGGER sending Drew Gulak out of the ring!
Eliminated by Buddy Murphy: Drew Gulak
Buddy looks angry before turning around as he comes face to face with his former rival Cedric Alexander as the former Cruiserweight champions collide by the ropes. Elsewhere Karrion Kross gets Zack Ryder locked in a straight jacket choke before tossing his limp body over the ropes eliminating him!
Eliminated by Karrion Kross: Zack Ryder
Kross turns around and comes face to face with United States Champion Chad Gable! The men battle for control and Chad Gable slams down Kross to the mat before turning into a pair of superkicks from THE LAST OUTLAWS! They are stopped from pouncing in as HEAVY MACHINERY takes them down! Otis and Tucker then slam them down to the mat before Otis heads to the corner teasing the CATERPILLAR… ROCKET KICK BY KARL ANDERSON STUNNING OTIS AND ELIMINATING HIM!
Eliminated by Karl Anderson: Otis Dozovic
Boos ring out as Karl taunts them but get clattered by TUCKER KNIGHT who beats him down before looking to toss him as Gallows makes the save! Gallows lays into him but Tucker overpowers him and tosses him out of the match!
Eliminated by Tucker Knight: Luke Gallows
Tucker though gets LOW BLOWED BY KARL ANDERSON and tossed over the top rope!
Eliminated by Karl Anderson: Tucker Knight
Karl Anderson taunts the crowd and Heavy Machinery as he makes it clear the Good Brothers want the tag team titles! He turns back around and comes face to face with Chad Gable with these two having no love lost due to Gable’s Wrestlemania rivalry with AJ Styles! Elsewhere Cedric Alexander has gone after Matt Riddle but it ends badly for him hitting a JUMPING KNEE STRIKE! Riddle follows up and tosses him out of the ring eliminating him!
Eliminated by Matt Riddle: Cedric Alexander
Back across the ring, The Ungovernables are trying to take down Braun two-on-one as Buddy Murphy tries to sneak in to help but BRAUN OVERPOWERS ALL 3 MEN! He clobbers Buddy Murphy with a BIG BOOT! He turns around as Shinsuke and Dijakovic struggle to their feet GETTING WIPED OUT BY A DUAL CLOTHESLINE!
Eliminated by Braun Strowman: Shinsuke Nakamura and Dominik Dijakovic
We are now down to 9 men after that elimination as Braun Strowman turns around coming face-to-face with Karrion Kross! Two of the larger men in the match start to battle with each other as elsewhere Buddy Murphy is taking on Matt Riddle, The Last Outlaws are double teaming poor Metalik who is hanging on whilst Chad Gable tosses Karl Anderson out of the match!
Eliminated by Chad Gable: Karl Anderson
Chad Gable upon tossing out Karl Anderson immediately runs over and starts to help Gran Metalik. The two group battle for a while as Metalik and James Storm end up on the ring apron! James goes for a SUPERKICK but Metalik avoids it ducking… as GABLE PUSHES JAMES STORM TO THE FLOOR!
Eliminated by Chad Gable: James Storm
Chad Gable though is nearly tossed out of the ring by James Storm but SKINS THE CAT! Roode goes to eliminate him but Metalik using his agility kicks him back allowing both men to recover! Metalik leaps over the ropes… BUT GETS WIPED OUT BY MURPHY WITH A JUMPING KNEE! Murphy doesn’t stop there as he tosses Metalik out of the ring with MURPHY’S LAW!
Eliminated by Buddy Murphy: Gran Metalik
A smirk appears on Buddy Murphy's face as he shares a nod with Bobby Roode as he looks to go after Chad Gable but once again Matt Riddle and Gable form an alliance as they battle with Murphy and Roode. Elsewhere in the ring the battle between Kross and Braun has Kross trying to choke out Braun but the monster is too strong as he overpowers him! Kross gets scooped up and SLAMMED OUT OF THE RING BY THE MONSTER AMONG MEN!
Eliminated by Braun Strowman: Karrion Kross
One of the favorites out before the final five as Braun Strowman shows his immense power! The commentary team also mentions that he wrestled earlier tonight in this match as Braun looks at the four men battling in the middle of the ring. Braun looks over and POWERS THROUGH ALL FOUR MEN! Braun wipes them out and sends them flying! Chad Gable is the first one to get to his feet and uses his speed to try to take down Braun going after Braun's right leg… BUT GETS KICKED OFF INTO THE CORNER!
Braun doesn’t get a moment to breathe as Buddy Murphy and Matt Riddle lay into Braun with a PAIR OF RUNNING KNEES TO THE HEAD! An unlikely alliance forms as Braun stumbles back before getting hit with the GLORIOUS DDT! Braun is down for the first time all match and the 4 men in the ring grab hold of him before slowly throwing him over the top rope eliminating the giant!
Eliminated by Bobby Roode, Chad Gable, Matt Riddle and Buddy Murphy: Braun Strowman
And then there were 4! None of them take a moment to rest though as it turns into a mini-tornado tag team match as Gable and Riddle team up to take on Roode and Murphy! The battle goes on for a while but Roode gets the upper hand on Chad Gable with a rake to the eye and tosses the United States Champion out of the match!
Eliminated by Bobby Roode: Chad Gable
Bobby Roode smirks and attacks Matt Riddle from behind just as it looks like Buddy Murphy might be thrown out. The two heels start to work together against Matt Riddle. He tries to fight back but struggles as they send him over the top rope… BUT HE HANGS ON! The heel doesn’t notice this so Bobby tries to backstab Buddy Murphy but he is ready for it and tosses him out of the ring bringing us down to the final two!
Eliminated by Buddy Murphy: Bobby Roode
Matt Riddle gets back into the ring but Buddy Murphy goes on the attack as these two men lay into each other. Matt tries to use his MMA strikes and skills with his feet peppering Buddy with strikes whilst Buddy uses his speed advantage to stay alive. In the end, Matt Riddle gets her up for a JUMPING TOMBSTONE BUT BUDDY ESCAPES AND HITS MURPHY’S LAW SLAMMING RIDDLE DOWN! He grabs hold of Riddle and throws him out of the ring to win the match!
Winner: Buddy Murphy (15:23)
Boos from the live crowd but there are some cheers as Buddy Murphy celebrates in the ring as he will now go to The Great American Bash to fight Aleister Black for the Universal title! Matt Riddle looks disappointed outside the ring having come so close to earning a title shot. As Buddy Murphy celebrates the victory this music hits…
ALEISTER BLACK walks out onto the stage at the top of the entrance ramp as he lifts his Universal title into the air before sitting cross-legged as he stares down Buddy Murphy in the ring as Smackdown fades to black…
Matches confirmed for next week:
Tag team match:
Ember Moon, Taynara Conti and Xia Li vs Sasha Banks and The Riott Squad
Matches confirmed for two weeks:
Women’s WWE title match:
Ember Moon © vs Taynara Conti
Number one contender’s match for the Women’s WWE title:
Sasha Banks vs Ruby Riott
Matches confirmed for three weeks:
Debut match:
Bianca Bel-Air vs ???
Matchcard for Great American Bash:
San Jose, California
July 19th
Women’s WWE title match:
Ember Moon © or Taynara Conti vs Sasha Banks or Ruby Riott
Universal title match:
Aleister Black © vs Buddy Murphy
Matchcard for Summerslam:
Toronto, Canada
August 23rd
WWE title match:
Drew McIntyre or Sheamus or Randy Orton © vs Brock Lesnar or Andrade Cien Almas
EWR Rating:
65%