Monday Night Raw
June 29th 2020
Denver, Colorado
Pepsi Center
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Monday Night Raw starts the final show before Armageddon with a pan around the arena before we cut to the commentary team of Elias and Michael Cole at ringside who welcome us to the show by running down the card for tonight’s show:
The commentary team then tells us before all those we are kicking off the match with tag team action as…
THE NEW DAY walks out onto the entrance ramp! It is only BIG E and XAVIER WOODS with Kofi still on the shelf with an injury currently but they play to the crowd and Big E lifts his Money in the Bank briefcase into the air as well showing it off. The commentary team reminds us that Woods is 6 days away from the biggest singles match of his career when he fights John Morrison for the Intercontinental title at Armageddon. The duo waits in the ring until…
JOHN MORRISON walks out onto the stage in his signature fur coat and he is joined by his bodyguard ERICK ROWAN and his wife FRANKY MONET! Morrison and Monet have a little make-out session at the top of the ramp before walking to the ring with Rowan towering over them. The commentary team points out how cowardly John Morrison has been since the turn of the year but it is paying off for him with the gold around his waist. They also mention Miz lurking in the background looking to get his hands on Morrison. Once in the ring, Erick Rowan is told to start for his team whilst Big E steps into the ring for The New Day as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!
Match 1: The New Day vs John Morrison and Erick Rowan w/Franky Monet
Match summary: Erick Rowan tries to overpower Big E in the early going but Big E is too powerful for him and lifts him up off the mat, slamming him down with force. Rowan looks angry as does Morrison who demands coming into the match but Woods asks E for the tag and his friend obliges. Morrison and Woods battle in the middle of the ring with John not taking him seriously at first but Woods shows him up on a couple of occasions, as Morrison goes to the outside of the ring throwing a tantrum as his wife supports him.
John Morrison gets back into the ring as Big E becomes the legal man and once again the heels struggle due to the experience of the New Day. Morrison and Rowan try to get back into the match with a variety of dirty tricks but The New Day are ready for each one having either used them in the past or due to their experience fighting several teams throughout the years as we move into the closing stages of the match.
Big E is tagged in and runs through everyone like a house on fire as he catches a diving Morrison in mid-air and PLANTS HIM WITH SPINEBUSTER! The crowd goes wild for Mr. Money in the Bank who gets to his feet and tags Woods into the match. Morrison looks to crawl to the corner but Woods cuts him off. Rowan tries to climb into the ring but GETS SPEARED THROUGH THE ROPES TO THE RING FLOOR! Woods meanwhile climbs to the top rope and walks along the ropes as he flies off and hits LIMIT BREAK! Woods makes the cover and picks up a huge win ahead of Sunday night!
Winners via pinfall: The New Day (12:51)
Big E slides back into the ring and hugs his best friend as they celebrate this victory. The commentary meanwhile reminds us if this happens on Sunday, we will see a new champion. John Morrison grabs the Intercontinental title and quickly sneaks up the entrance ramp clutching the belt as Franky calms him down and Erick Rowan shakes his head. Woods carries on the celebration in the ring as Big E hypes his best friend up as we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break JOHN MORRISON, FRANKY MONET and ERICK ROWAN are walking through the back as Morrison looks pissed off.
John Morrison: They got lucky. On any other night, we would have won but the referee forced me to wrestle with a pulled muscle.
Franky nods agreeing with the clearly fake excuse.
John Morrison: Where is Shawn? He should be in charge of Raw. He would understand my needs. He had to drop his title due to losing his smile. He would understand me needing a week off.
Franky Monet: He should be treating his top star, right honey.
They share a kiss before being interrupted by THE MIZ who has a smug look on his face. Morrison looks at Rowan who steps in between but Miz smirks.
The Miz: It’s alright John, I don’t want a fight tonight.
Morrison still looks on edge.
The Miz: I just wanted to remind you if you manage to keep that title…
Miz points at the IC belt as John pulls it back looking defensive which brings a smile to Miz’s face.
The Miz: And that’s a big if after what I saw out there…
Erick Rowan steps forward and towers over The Miz!
Erick Rowan: You lost to him too!
Morrison and Monet both mock Miz in the background shouting Rowan is right.
The Miz: Only because you two attacked me from behind.
Erick and Miz both stare at each other with neither backing down as Morrison stands behind his bodyguard.
The Miz: But I know the only way to get to you John is through him!
He points directly at the giant who stays towering over him.
The Miz: I’ll see you next week!
Miz issues the challenge to the bodyguard of John Morrison who just stoically nods whilst Morrison looks unhappy. We cut back to the commentary team at ringside who confirm Wade Barrett has made the match official for the post-Armageddon Raw and look to discuss it more until…
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SAMI ZAYN makes his way out onto the entrance ramp with a microphone in hand! The popular superstar heads to the ring and slaps the hands of the fans at the ringside on the way to the ring. The commentary team reminds us that Sami will be facing Randy Orton at Armageddon and the Underdog from the Underground steps through the ropes as he looks to the face and begins to speak.
Sami Zayn: A few people over the last few days have asked me, why I’m chasing after Randy Orton.
He takes a moment to smile as he walks around the ring.
Sami Zayn: They bring up Judgment Day and say I helped Kevin Owens get revenge.
Sami pauses and smiles.
Sami Zayn: I helped Kevin get his revenge… but I still need mine.
Sami looks a beat downbeat before carrying on after letting out a big sigh.
Sami Zayn: Yes Kevin’s best friend was put on the shelf for months but I was the one who had to miss Wrestlemania!
Sami gets a bit louder clearly angry about that.
Sami Zayn: I was the one who was kicked in the skull and had to spend weeks in the hospital surrounded by my wife and kids!
The sad look on Sami’s face turns to anger as he gets fired up.
Sami Zayn: And now, I want to prove I am my own man! I want to beat Randy Orton by myself!
He points at his chest and emphasizes his point.
Sami Zayn: People look at me and they think of just Kevin! I’m my own man and that’s why I asked for us to be drafted separately.
Sami walks around the ring leaning on the ropes.
Sami Zayn: And at Armageddon, I will get the chance to prove why I am a former NXT Champion when I…
A huge mixed reaction from the live crowd as RANDY ORTON walks out onto the entrance ramp with a microphone in hand. Sami looks angry at being interrupted but Orton has a slight smirk on his face as he looks to speak.
Randy Orton: Sami, you could have left me alone. I’d already gotten my receipt for you costing me my match with your best friend.
Sami shakes his head not buying that for a second.
Randy Orton: But you insisted on getting in my way and that means you need to be taken care of.
Sami Zayn: Then why wait? Let’s do this right now!
Sami drops the microphone and challenges Randy to come to the ring but the Viper shakes his head.
Randy Orton: No I am a legend killer turned legend and I don’t need to end you tonight Sami!
Boos from the crowd but Randy doesn’t care.
Randy Orton: But remember this Sami, what I did you a few months ago wasn’t personal. You were Kevin’s friend and an easy target to hurt.
Sami glares at Orton but the Viper smiles evilly.
Randy Orton: But now you are trying to step out of his shadow and into my spotlight? I need to remind you of the three most dangerous letters in all of wrestling. R K…
The crowd finishes it off for him as Orton looks at them with disdain.
Randy Orton: You know the rest.
Randy drops the microphone and leaves as Sami in the ring looks even more angry and motivated after the Viper’s words tonight. The commentary team hypes up the fact that Sami is a former NXT Champion but has he lost some of that fire from those days. We then get informed by the commentary team that Tegan Nox and Dana Brooke will be in action next!
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*RESPECTFUL*
Boos from the live crowd as DANA BROOKE makes her way out and she is joined by new ally FRANKY MONET! Both women insult the crowd as the commentary team mentions Dana Brooke has had a stagnant few years and maybe this alliance with Franky Monet is what she needs to re-establish herself on Monday Night Raw.
A decent pop from the live crowd as TEGAN NOX walks out onto the entrance ramp ready for action and she is joined by her tag team partner DAKOTA KAI! The duo high-fived the fans on the way to the ring. The commentary team meanwhile mentions that Team Kick planned to see off Franky Monet before going after Ronda and Shayna’s tag team titles but Dana Brooke’s attack caused them to have to delay their plans. Tegan steps into the ring as Dana talks a bunch of trash to the Welsh Wizard and the referee calls for the bell to start the match.
Match 2: Tegan Nox w/Dakota Kai vs Dana Brooke w/Franky Monet
Match summary: Dana Brooke right from the bell is using any cheap trick she can to try to gain an advantage over Tegan Nox, knowing she is outclassed. Tegan though fires off a series of kicks on Dana Brooke and Kai stops Franky Monet from getting involved allowing Tegan to hit THE SHINEST WIZARD on Dana Brooke and pick up the win!
Winner via pinfall: Tegan Nox (4:01)
The crowd cheers as Tegan gets to her feet and celebrates the singles win on tonight’s show. Franky Monet outside the ring grabs Dana Brooke as the duo retreats up the entrance ramp, annoyed at being shown up in this match. The commentary team wonders if this is a sign of what is to come as Wade Barrett has made a tag team clash between the two groups official for the Armageddon pre-show! We see both teams trash-talking before cutting backstage as…
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SHEAMUS is arriving at the arena! As you know only the coolest babyfaces show up late for work! As he walks down the hallway he is soon stopped by RENEE YOUNG!
Renee Young: Sheamus, later on tonight you sign the contract for the WWE title match at Armageddon with your close friend Drew. Do you have any concerns about fighting such a close friend?
Sheamus shakes his head.
Sheamus: We love to fight so why don’t we do it together?
He has a smile on his face as he carries on.
Sheamus: Fighting for the greatest prize on offer and the chance to become a five-time world champion by beating my friend? One of the best in the world today. It’s the kind of fight we dreamed of trying to get here.
Renee Young: Speaking of friendships, you and Cesaro have had a few issues the last few weeks.
Sheamus stops smiling and looks slightly sad as Renee carries on.
Renee Young: You have clearly had an issue with some of his choices in allies in recent times?
Sheamus nods.
Sheamus: It’s because I know he can do better.
He sighs before carrying on.
Sheamus: He was one of the best in the world when he fought me and was fighting by my side. Now? He is Andrade’s lap dog and not the Swiss Superman I respected.
Renee Young: What do you plan to do to make him see the light?
Sheamus smiles slightly but looks sad.
Sheamus: I already tried beating some sense into him. Maybe I didn’t hit him hard enough.
Sheamus walks off and brings the interview to an end as we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break, we see BREEZANGO sitting backstage on two make-up chairs as they look directly at the camera.
Tyler Breeze: Noam, you have been trying to make things ugly between us for too long and it’s time we teach you a lesson.
Fandango: Someone with the ugly traits you have, we doubt you have any friends but we need you to find one.
Tyler Breeze: We both want to teach you a lesson and since we have honor plus grace, we don’t want a handicap.
Fandango: So find a friend or pay for one…
Tyler Breeze: You seem the type used to needing that.
Shots fired.
Fandango: We will see you at Armageddon on the pre-show and we will show what happens when you mess with our beauty shots.
The promo comes to an end as the commentary team confirms that Noam Dar will have to find a partner to take on Breezango on the Armageddon pre-show this Sunday. They speculate who would team with him before we hear the theme music for…
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*FEARLESS WARRIOR*
KALISTO! The Mexican high-flier makes his way out onto the entrance ramp getting decent cheers from the crowd and he is joined by his tag team partner LINCE DORADO! Both men head down the entrance ramp showing respect to the kids in the front row. He hops into the ring as the commentary team puts over his win over Baron Corbin giving him a ton of momentum going into this qualifying match.
Boos from the crowd as the angry DANNY BURCH walks down the ramp ready for a fight. ONEY LORCAN is by his friend's side as his partner looks to join him in the Cruiserweight number one contender’s ladder match in 6 days. The commentary team put over the advantage of having a partner in the match could give both men as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!
Match 3: Qualifying match: Kalisto w/Lince Dorado vs Danny Burch w/Oney Lorcan
Match summary: Kalisto starts the match off in a face-paced fashion but similar to the Lince vs Oney match on last week’s Raw, the strikes from Danny ground him and starts to put the pressure on him. Oney and Lince stay out of the match outside the ring as Kalisto struggles to fight back. Danny is in control but in the end, Kalisto finally makes a comeback and picks up the win with the SALIDA DEL SOL!
Winner via pinfall: Kalisto (5:10)
Kalisto gets to his feet and celebrates the victory with Lince Dorado joining him inside the ring. Oney meanwhile checks on his tag team partner as both scowl at the Luchadores in the ring. The commentary put over the previous performances Kalisto has had in ladder matches and wonder if he can not only win that match but become a two-time Cruiserweight champion! The two teams meanwhile make it clear their issues are not done just yet but the commentary team confirms after the commercial break we will hear from the MMA Horsewomen!
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We return from the commercial break as THE MMA HORSEWOMEN walk out onto the entrance ramp with a microphone in hand. RONDA ROUSEY and SHAYNA BASZLER walk out with their WWE Women’s tag team titles on their right shoulder and Shayna’s Women’s Universal title on her left shoulder. The goons JESSAYMN DUKE and MARINA SHAFIR flank them from either side as the commentary team reminds us Shayna defeated Nia Jax last week in her first title defense and has another this Sunday against Natalya. Meanwhile Ronda Rousey takes on Charlotte Flair. They remind us the group wants to take over not only Monday Night Raw but the whole of WWE and those tag team titles are a key part of it. The MMA Horsewomen now stand in the ring as Ronda looks to speak first.
Ronda Rousey: When will you people learn?
Loud boos as Ronda is already taunting the live crowd.
Ronda Rousey: This is now our division, everyone else is just living in it!
A good chuckle from the horsewomen as Shayna takes over.
Shayna Baszler: Your hero went into hiding and we filled the power vacuum.
Loud boos and a few “Becky” chants start up which pisses off Ronda.
Ronda Rousey: Keep chanting her name because she isn’t coming back.
Nuclear heat as Ronda leans on the ropes pointing at the live crowd.
Ronda Rousey: She has something better to cling to than you people and she ain’t ever coming back.
The crowd clearly disagrees with Ronda’s statement (or hopes) as Shayna takes back over.
Shayna Baszler: And if she was still around, she would have been our victim instead of you Beth.
The fans start to chant for the legend Beth Phoenix who Shayna beat to become Women’s Universal champion. Shayna shakes her head.
Shayna Baszler: Beth, if you are smart I would stay at home.
Ronda Rousey: You had already been considering retirement before you won that title there. Accept your two-day reign and stay playing with your kids or else!
A vile threat made by the duo and the crowd reigns down the heat on the deadly duo.
Shayna Baszler: But you will soon have company.
An evil smile appears on Shayna’s face.
Shayna Baszler: Your best friend “Nattie” and your former trainer Ronda.
A nod from Ronda as Shayna turns back to the camera.
Shayna Baszler: But really whilst she was training with you Natalya, she was secretly learning from me.
Ronda Rousey: If anything Natalya, I should have been teaching you.
She smirks.
Ronda Rousey: And maybe you will have the chance.
Loud boos from the crowd as Ronda carries on.
Ronda Rousey: If you were smart, you would call off your title shot this Sunday and join back up with us.
Shayna nods in agreement.
Shayna Baszler: C’mon Nattie. What do you have to say?
Boos from the crowd as the MMA Horsewomen wait in the ring until…
NATALYA walks out with a microphone getting a decent reaction from the live crowd as she looks to respond.
Natalya: Why would I give up not only a chance to become Women’s Champion for the third time in my career but to avenge my best friend Beth?
Ronda and Shayna laugh as Ronda steps forward.
Ronda Rousey: Because you value your career.
Natalya: Is that a threat?
Ronda shakes her head.
Ronda Rousey: No I meant you value how you are viewed.
Natalya tilts her head as Ronda carries on.
Ronda Rousey: Beth doesn’t value you. She doesn’t respect you like I do.
Natalya seems very wary about where this is going but Ronda carries on amid the boos from the live crowd.
Ronda Rousey: I mean look at her slump. It wasn’t your words that got her out of it, it was her husband's.
Shayna Baszler: Never been a big fan of having a rely on a man to pick me up off the ground.
Shayna shrugs as Ronda carries on.
Ronda Rousey: If anything she has been using you to coast through her final year of retirement.
Natalya thinks deeply about those words before shaking her head.
Natalya: Ronda you can try all the mind games you want but I am taking that title from Shayna at Armageddon and I’m doing it for Beth!
A cheap pop from the crowd but not too loud as most aren’t too behind the robotic Natalya. Shayna and Ronda look at each other shaking their head.
Ronda Rousey: Well it’s your funeral Nattie. I’m sorry we have to do this.
Ronda and Shayna drop their microphones as they signal to the goons to leave the ring. They head up the ramp ready to fight Natalya who bravely stands ready for a fight until…
A massive mixed reaction but it again leans towards positive due to CHARLOTTE FLAIR coming out to deal with The MMA Horsewomen! She has a microphone in hand as the group slowly walks up the ramp but The Queen smugly smirks.
Charlotte Flair: I figured you might try to pull something like this.
She looks at Natalya who nods.
Charlotte Flair: But when you are a living legend, you know over legends as well!
Charlotte drops the microphone as…
TRISH STRATUS runs out onto the ramp but she is also soon joined by…
LITA joins the other 3 women at the top of the entrance ramp and they start to brawl with the MMA Horsewomen! Natalya and Charlotte go after Ronda and Shayna Baszler brawling with them whilst Lita and Trish deal with the goons. The legendary duo takes care of them with ease before Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler flee through the crowd getting loud boos but the babyfaces aren’t done with the goons left behind just yet!
Lita climbs into the barricade whilst Charlotte hits Marina with NATURAL SELECTION and Trish Stratus hits Duke with STRATUSFACTION planting both women down next to each other. Lita then climbs onto the barricade lining them up before flying off and hitting a DIVING MOONSAULT! Natalya then grabs both goons locking them in a DOUBLE SHARPSHOOTER!
Loud cheers from the crowd as Duke and Shafir scream in pain tapping out as Shayna and Ronda watch on from the crowd with Shayna showing her first bit of nerves since winning her title. Eventually, Natalya drops the hold and she re-joins Charlotte Flair, Trish Stratus and Lita at the top of the ramp as the women stand tall. Michael Cole and Elias hype up the two matches for the PPV but also wonder what Trish and Lita would look like with the tag team titles before we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break, we can see CHARLOTTE FLAIR, NATALYA, TRISH STRATUS and LITA walking through the backstage area. As the quartet are walking through the back CHARLY CARUSO approaches them looking for an interview.
Charly Caruso: Ladies, a nice showing against the MMA Horsewomen. Surely that gives you confidence ahead of Sunday night?
Nattie nods speaking first.
Natalya: I come from wrestling royalty just like Charlotte…
Charlotte Flair: We don’t mention it often.
Trish and Lita can’t help but shake their heads smiling.
Natalya: Being a champion is in my veins and it has been too long since I’ve held gold in WWE.
Charlotte nods.
Charlotte Flair: I know the feeling but I have some business to take care of first.
She gets serious as she looks toward the camera.
Charlotte Flair: Ronda Rousey thinks she runs this division. She thinks she is the gatekeeper. No that’s me.
She points at herself.
Charlotte Flair: If you want to be at the top of the division you have to go through me and I don’t intend on letting you run this brand Ronda. At Armageddon, what I did with a steel chair over a year ago will be child’s play.
Charly then turns to Trish and Lita looking to ask them a question now.
Charly Caruso: Lita and Trish, no one expected you to be here on Raw tonight. How did Charlotte talk you into appearing?
The legends smile.
Trish Stratus: She is right. Legends have got to look after the future legends.
A smile on Charlotte’s face appears as Lita steps in.
Lita: And we really wanted to send a message to the champions. This isn’t a vanity project of ours. We are not here for one match to win the titles. No, if we win the titles we are back in this division!
A loud pop from the crowd excited to see the legends appear week in week out.
Trish Stratus: And we have no interest in letting the MMA Horsewomen run things.
Lita: We’ll be on Smackdown ladies, we’ll see you there.
The four women walk off having sent a message to the MMA Horsewomen as we cut back to the commentary team who not only hype Smackdown but also hype up Armageddon this Sunday until…
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AKIRA TOZAWA makes his way out and is joined by TITUS O’NEIL as they make their way down the entrance ramp. Akira hypes himself up on the way to the ring shouting AHA as he heads down the entrance ramp and the commentary team reminds us he has been a Cruiserweight champion twice in WWE: Once on Raw and once in NXT so will be looking to be a 3-time champion if he wins tonight and on Sunday. He stands in the ring waiting for…
LIO RUSH walks out hyping himself up and getting boos from the crowd. MVP and ISAIAH “SWERVE” SCOTT join him on the entrance ramp heading towards the ring. The commentary team mentions ever since the turn of the year, Lio has been proving he is more than just all mouth and could be a threat to whoever walks out of Armageddon as Cruiserweight champion. He climbs into the ring across from Akira Tozawa as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway.
Match 4: Qualifying match: Lio Rush w/MVP and Isaiah “Swerve” Scott vs Akira Tozawa w/Titus O’Neil
Match summary: Lio Rush and Akira have a fun fast-paced match with all the men on the outside of the ring watching the action rather than getting involved throughout. Akira tries to win the match with a variety of kicks and suplexes slamming him down but Lio Rush uses his speed plus high-flying to pick up the win in the end flying off the top rope with the GOLDEN HOUR! Lio is the final entrant in the Cruiserweight number one contender’s ladder match!
Winner via pinfall: Lio Rush (6:44)
Lio Rush gets to his feet and celebrates a win that puts him one match away from another shot at the Cruiserweight title. The rest of the Hurt Business join him in the ring and celebrate with Lio Rush as the crowd boos the group. The commentary team put over the fact that The Hurt Business are picking up wins over the last few weeks and then talk about Samoa Joe wondering what his decision will be as we cut to a commercial break.
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When we return from the commercial break, we can see THE HURT BUSINESS walking through the backstage area. LIO RUSH especially looks to be in good spirits but ISAIAH “SWERVE” SCOTT also looks very happy. MVP stops them as they are walking and they come face to face with ANDRADE CIEN ALMAS and ZELINA VEGA! There is a bit of tension between the wrestlers but MVP turns to his clients.
MVP: Guys I will handle this.
Lio nods and walks off with Swerve hanging around for a bit longer eyeing up Andrade but he does what MVP says leaving him alone with Zelina and Andrade. El Idolo doesn’t look impressed to have been stopped by MVP.
Andrade Cien Almas: Blocking our way and sending your clients seems like a bad idea to me.
MVP smiles and puts his hands up defensively.
MVP: Andrade I just came to talk business.
Andrade scowls at him but Zelina smiles and is intrigued.
Andrade Cien Almas: I’ve got no interest in joining your little Hurt Business.
MVP shakes his head.
MVP: Oh Andrade, I’m not here for that reason. You would be a great addition to the Hurt Business. A former Universal and NXT Champion? That’s would take us to the top.
Andrade remains unimpressed by the buttering up from MVP.
MVP: But I came to speak to the other brain behind The Ungovernables.
He turns to a smirking Zelina who remains wary but lets MVP speak.
MVP: I figured I would give my business card to Zelina.
He pulls out a business card confusing Zelina but MVP smiles.
MVP: See my clients are the best at putting the hurt on people…
MVP goes to walk off looking at Andrade Cien Almas.
MVP: So if you ever need some business, business is booming.
MVP walks off as Zelina looks at the card in her hand with a smile whilst Andrade looks on before smirking as well.
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We then cut to the backstage area and we see DREW MCINTYRE walking through the back with his WWE title over his shoulder. He has a smile on his face before being stopped by RENEE YOUNG looking for an interview.
Renee Young: Drew, in tonight’s main event you will be signing the contract for your main event match at Armageddon with Sheamus. How are you feeling ahead of it?
He smirks slightly.
Drew McIntyre: Well we all know how contract signings end.
He has a slight laugh before carrying on.
Drew McIntyre: For many years, before even making it to WWE for the first time…
He takes the WWE title off his shoulder and holds it in front of Renee.
Drew McIntyre: Fighting over this title as friends and now we get that chance in 6 days!
Drew puts the title back on his shoulder as Renee carries on.
Renee Young: Do you have any concerns about falling out with Sheamus?
Drew shakes his head.
Drew McIntyre: We love to fight and we have fought each other all over the world.
He leans towards Renee.
Drew McIntyre: Who do you think helped me train for Wrestlemania?
On Celtic Warrior workouts.
Drew McIntyre: But this time, there will be no holding back and the best man will win.
Renee Young: What will you two do after the match?
Drew thinks for a moment.
Drew McIntyre: I think a pint of Guinness sounds good to me.
Drew with the WWE title on his shoulder walks off and brings the interview to an end as the commentary team confirms we will get a Cruiserweight ladder preview with Mustafa Ali taking on Oney Lorcan next!
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Boos from the live crowd as ONEY LORCAN marches out with a scowl on his face. He is joined by his tag team partner DANNY BURCH who is still smarting after his loss earlier tonight to Kalisto. The commentary team puts over Oney’s strikes and submissions, with him being able to pick apart all the opponents in the ladder match before climbing to the top and earning a Cruiserweight title shot.
A loud pop from the crowd as MUSTAFA ALI walks out onto the entrance ramp and poses for the fans. He heads down the entrance ramp as he slaps hands with the fans. The commentary team mentions his issues with Dolph Ziggler and the fact they have been brawling at any opportunity. They say both Ziggler and Ali asked for matches to blow off some steam and they were given two of the men they will face at Armageddon. Ali stands in the ring getting glared at by Oney as the referee calls for the bell.
Match 5: Mustafa Ali vs Oney Lorcan w/Danny Burch
Match summary: Oney Lorcan fires off on Mustafa Ali in the opening stages as Mustafa tries to match him with strikes but Oney takes control. The commentary team also mentions that Oney will be looking to win this match not just for momentum but also due to Mustafa Ali’s status as a former Cruiserweight champion. Ali does regroup however and catches Oney off-guard using speed and ability to fly off the ropes to fight back against Oney’s offense.
Oney keeps on trying to take down Mustafa but as the match goes on he gets more and more frustrated. He goes even harder after Mustafa but at the end of the match, he goes too hard after Ali and gets countered into a STANDING SPANISH FLY! Ali plants Oney onto the mat before looking to the corner of the ring. He steadies himself as Danny Burch tries to stop him but gets kicked away so Ali hits the 054 for the win!
Winner via pinfall: Mustafa Ali (7:28)
Mustafa Ali gets to his feet having picked up another win even with Danny Burch making his presence felt in the closing stages. The commentary team says Mustafa would have to be the favourite heading into the Cruiserweight number one contender’s ladder match this Sunday. Oney kicks the steps in frustration as he leaves whilst Ali is shown celebrating in the ring before we cut to…
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THE UNGOVERNABLES LOCKER ROOM! We can see ILJA DRAGUNOV getting ready for action with ANGEL GARZA relaxing in the background. The door comes open and we can see CESARO walk into the room. There is some clear tension as Cesaro also starts getting ready for action. Angel is the first man to break the silence.
Angel Garza: Hey Cesaro, why have you been cold in the group chat? Are you still mad at Ilja for last week?
Cesaro sighs.
Cesaro: I was busy.
He turns to Ilja.
Cesaro: Me and Ilja spoke separately and we are cool.
Ilja nods.
Cesaro: He knows I can handle stuff myself and I’ll ask if I need anyone.
Angel scoffs which gets Cesaro to walk over to the Latino Lothario.
Cesaro: What?
Angel smirks and Cesaro remains pretty angry.
Angel Garza: You didn’t handle Sheamus last week did you?
Angel smiles at his own joke but Cesaro isn’t in the mood for jokes as he GRABS HIM BY THE SHIRT AND LIFTS HIM INTO THE AIR!
Angel Garza: Whoa whoa!
Cesaro: Do you think you are funny? Do I look like your arm candy who will pretend to laugh at your bad jokes?
Ilja comes over to the two and tries to calm down the situation shouting in Russian as the door opens again and ZELINA VEGA, ANDRADE CIEN ALMAS plus EVA MARIE walk into the locker room.
Zelina Vega: Enough!
Cesaro glares at Angel for a few more seconds before releasing him. Angel un-scuffs his shirt and Eva runs over kissing his cheek but he doesn’t look happy.
Zelina Vega: This needs to stop.
She looks at all of them even Andrade before carrying on.
Zelina Vega: We are Ungovernable. We are a unit. We work together to make sure all win gold.
She looks at the three champions in the group who all nod before looking at Andrade.
Zelina Vega: And now we send a message on your way to getting yours back!
Andrade remains silent as Zelina leads him out the door as the commentary team confirms we will see Andrade in action next after the commercial break!
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*GANGSTER’S PARADISE*
Boos from the live crowd as ANDRADE CIEN ALMAS makes his way to the ring. He has a smug smirk on his face as he is dressed and is ready for action. ZELINA VEGA is by his side and has a devilish smirk on her face as they head down the entrance ramp. The commentary team puts over the challenge Andrade faces at Armageddon, taking on Brock Lesnar but if he can win, he will get a WWE title match at Summerslam against either Drew McIntyre or Sheamus. Andrade once inside the ring heads into the ropes and even does the Tranquillo pose as Zelina looks to address the live crowd.
Zelina Vega: Colorado, you are about to be treated to a preview of what will happen this Sunday when Andrade steps into the ring with Brock Lesnar!
Boos from the crowd and even a few “Lesnar” chants from the live crowd.
Zelina Vega: My client is going to show you that this is now Ungovernable territory and we run this brand. Not Brock Lesnar, not Sheamus and not Drew McIntyre!
Andrade who is still posing in the ropes shouts it’s true.
Zelina Vega: So right now...
A humongous pop from the live crowd and Andrade leaps off the ropes into the middle of the ring! He waits as the iconic music hits and we see BROCK LESNAR walk onto the entrance ramp to cheers from the crowd… though they soon twig that it’s not Brock Lesnar… no it’s PARKER BOUDREAUX!?! The commentary team wonders who this is (we know but they don’t) as Andrade carries on acting fake-scared.
He climbs into the ring and starts to badly copy Brock’s mannerisms (cause 2023 Parker sucks so how bad was 2020) as Andrade carries on faking fear. A referee then runs out as the commentary team says Wade Barrett has confirmed that Zelina Vega has requested this opponent to wrestle Andrade and it has been granted. Zelina leaves the ring whilst Andrade carries on hamming things up now in a mocking fashion whilst the referee calls for the bell!
Match 6: Andrade Cien Almas vs Parker Boudreaux
Match summary: Parker yells at Andrade threatening to take him to Suplex City but soon gets a DROPKICK TO THE FACE! Parker stumbles backward and Andrade taunts the crowd, as he sticks his arms out showing how easy it will be to beat Brock. He lays into the lookalike with a series of kicks but Parker fights back with a SPINEBUSTER! He grabs hold of Andrade lifting him off the mat and looks to send him flying with a GERMAN SUPLEX… BUT ANDRADE LANDS ON HIS FEET ONCE AGAIN!
He poses to the crowd whilst Parker goes a series of taunts and overhypes himself before turning around into Andrade who lays into him with a series of kicks! Andrade from there controls the match and even makes a point to target the stomach of Parker, hitting him with a series of DOUBLE FOOT STOMPS TO THE MID-SECTION! Andrade then finishes off the jobber with the HAMMERLOCK DDT picking up the easy win!
Winner via pinfall: Andrade Cien Almas (3:24)
Andrade gets back to his feet and celebrates the easy victory over Parker with Zelina getting into the ring. She overhypes the win mockingly as the jobber leaves them in the ring to celebrate (will we see him again? Doubt it). The commentary rolls their eyes at the antics of Andrade and Zelina in the ring before the leader of the Ungovernables grabs the microphone.
Zelina Vega: Did you see that?
Loud boos from the crowd not impressed with the antics of Andrade and Zelina.
Zelina Vega: This is what awaits the so-called Beast. He is about to meet his maker.
Andrade grabs the microphone from Zelina and looks to mock the fans.
Andrade Cien Almas: Brock!
He points at Parker who heads back through the curtain with a big smile on his face.
Andrade Cien Almas: He was nothing just like you will be nothing after I beat you.
Andrade turns away from the entrance ramp and smirks but the crown starts to cheer as PAUL HEYMAN APPEARS ON THE TITANTRON CLAPPING! This makes Andrade pause and he turns around to see the advocate smirking who speaks first.
Paul Heyman: I must say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.
He smiles and shakes his head as Andrade remains unimpressed.
Paul Heyman: But there is nothing like the real deal!
Paul gets serious as he looks directly at Andrade.
Paul Heyman: Andrade you might think you will have it easy against Brock but let me ask this to you Andrade, why did you need six men to take him down?
Loud cheers from the live crowd who enjoy Andrade Cien Almas look lost for words as he knows he has no answer, he fears Brock Lesnar.
Paul Heyman: You’re all alone Andrade and you will meet your Armageddon this Sunday!
Roll credits!
Paul Heyman: My client has been waiting over a year to be a world champion again, no one will survive in his wake!
Paul gets really fired-up as he looks to send a big message to Andrade.
Paul Heyman: And whoever walks into Summerslam as champion will fall at the hands of BROCCCCK LESNARRRRRRR!
The promo comes to an end with Paul Heyman disappearing from the titantron leaving Andrade in the ring lost for words as Zelina Vega tries to calm her client down but whilst he is showing anger, is it based in fear? The commentary team hypes up the number one contender’s match for Summerslam before saying we will hear from Noam Dar after the commercial break!
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When we return from the commercial break, we can see NOAM DAR walking up and down backstage with a big smile on his face whilst clearly on the phone to someone.
Noam Dar: Nah pal, they are a pair of soft dafties but it’s about time you came to the spotlight.
Dar chuckles as he listens to whoever it is responding to him before he wraps up the phone call.
Noam Dar: Listen I have to go, the people want to hear from me. Yeah, I know they are all morons anyway!
Cheap heat but the live crowd responds with boos for it as Dar puts his phone away and turns to the camera.
Noam Dar: Sorry I was just on the phone with my new tag team partner.
He has a smug smirk before carrying on.
Noam Dar: He is an old friend of mine all the way from Scotland and it’s been too long without him in the spotlight!
Dar sticks his arms out.
Noam Dar: And he is the only man I will share it with.
Dar is acting very smug as he gets closer to the camera.
Noam Dar: So who is it? Well, it is…
Dar wags a finger smirking.
Noam Dar: I’m not going to tell you or those dafties. I’m not as stupid as you people.
More boos from the crowd but the smirking Noam Dar doesn’t care as he carries on.
Noam Dar: You’ll find out Sunday night!
Noam Dar walks off laughing to himself looking very smug before we cut to the medical room backstage as we see…
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NIA JAX sitting on a table being looked over by the medical team and she is clearly in a ton of pain. We can see them checking over it as the door opens up and we see PIPER NIVEN come into the room with a smile on her face. Nia looks even more furious but stays quiet as Piper looks at the medics.
Piper Niven: Did you guys want me to come back? You look a little busy.
Nia gets to her feet, with her arm in a sling and glares at Piper Niven.
Nia Jax: I’m leaving.
Piper shrugs her shoulders to let Nia past but she turns to Piper giving her daggers.
Nia Jax: When this arm is healed, if you keep getting in my way I’ll show you a fraction of what I can do.
Piper responds with a smile.
Piper Niven: Looking forward to it.
That answer only seems to piss Nia Jax off more as she storms off elsewhere leaving Piper in the medical room as she gets ready for a check-up as the show cuts to a commercial break.
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Cheers from the majority of the crowd but a few of them boo after DOLPH ZIGGLER’S comments on last week's show to Mustafa Ali. He does the signature butt shake at the top of the entrance ramp but as he turns around you can tell Ziggler is pissed off. He doesn’t pay the fans much mind and heads to the ring. The commentary team makes a comment on Ziggler’s mood and mentions that he will be desperate to get his hands on Ali the moment the Cruiserweight ladder match starts. He stands in the ring and waits as his opponent…
RICOCHET walks out onto the entrance ramp! The crowd cheers for arguably the most gifted high-flier in the WWE today! He slaps the hands of the fans as the commentary team hypes up Ricochet’s performances in past ladder matches but mentions he is yet to come out on top. Could Sunday be the first time he finally does it and will it be another show-stealing performance from him? Ricochet leaps over the ropes across from Dolph Ziggler as the referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!
Match 7: Dolph Ziggler vs Ricochet
Match summary: Ziggler in the first few moments charges right at Ricochet and lays into him with a series of punches to the head. He grabs the smaller Ricochet and sends him across the ring, playing up the size advantage over the majority of his fellow Cruiserweights. Ricochet though feels in his element wrestling someone much bigger than him and uses his unique offense to overwhelm Ziggler who is getting more and more frustrated as the match goes on.
Ziggler acts more heelish and starts to get even more boos as the match carries on and grinds down Ricochet taking away the legs of the smaller high-flier! Ziggler is in control of the match as we enter the final stages of the match as he even hits the ZIG-ZAG getting a very close 2-count! Ziggler argues with the referee before seeing Ricochet getting back to his feet and goes for a SUPERKICK… BUT RICOCHET DUCKS AND ROLLS ZIGGLER UP TO PICK UP THE WIN!
Winner via pinfall: Ricochet (8:17)
Cheers from the crowd as Ziggler kicks out just after 3 but it is too late and it means Ricochet gains huge momentum heading into the number one contender’s ladder match! Ricochet heads outside the ring to celebrate with the fans whilst Ziggler is left in the ring selling his loss. The commentary team puts over Ricochet adapting quickly to the Cruiserweight division and might just earn himself a title shot this Sunday. Back in the ring, Dolph Ziggler pounds the mat in anger prompting Elias to make a joke about Baron Corbin losing a couple of weeks ago before mentioning Kayla Braxton is standing ready for an interview backstage.
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KAYLA BRAXTON is standing ready for an interview with a smile on her face as she gets ready to speak.
Kayla Braxton: It has been an action-packed show but right now my guest at this time requested this interview…
BARON CORBIN walks into the show with a scowl on his face getting boos from the crowd.
Kayla Braxton: Baron you asked for this interview, may I ask why?
He looks annoyed she would even ask.
Baron Corbin: That’s your question. Honestly Kayla, just give me the mic and leave.
He takes the microphone from her and shoos her away. Kayla shakes her head as Corbin looks at the camera.
Baron Corbin: If I wanted to be disrespected, I’d team with Elias again.
No love is lost between the former tag team partners as Corbin carries on his rant.
Baron Corbin: Kalisto got lucky and I refuse to let it happen again!
He shakes his head angrily.
Baron Corbin: If anyone else from the Cruiserweight division wants to step up, I’ll put those midgets down.
He walks closer to the camera.
Baron Corbin: This will be my brand!
Corbin tosses the microphone down on the floor and walks off bringing the interview to an end.
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When we return from the commercial break, we can see an angry SAMOA JOE walking through the back clearly deep in thought. He is soon interrupted by THE SINGH BROTHERS who walk around the corner and bump into the Samoan Submission machine! Both men fall backward and look fearful.
Samoa Joe: Watch where you are going!
Joe snarls at the pair who look scared even two-on-one against Joe but we soon see their leader JINDER MAHAL walk into the frame with a smirk.
Jinder Mahal: Joe, you seem like someone with something on your mind.
Joe remains silent just glaring at Jinder.
Jinder Mahal: Are you going to join the Hurt Business?
Joe scoffs.
Samoa Joe: Ain’t nunya business!
Joe gets in Jinder’s face but he just smirks.
Jinder Mahal: Have you been working on your temper, Joe? I could teach you some meditation.
Samoa Joe: I don’t need anything from you.
That response makes Jinder laugh.
Jinder Mahal: I mean only one of us has been WWE Champion!
Sorry but sadly it’s true.
Jinder Mahal: May you should join us and I can give you a few tips instead?
Joe smirks and shakes his head almost baffled by the idea of him working under Jinder Mahal.
Samoa Joe: Or how about I go speak to Wade and crush you next week?
He puts his finger right in Jinder’s face causing Jinder to back away putting his hands up and moving out of Joe’s eye line.
Jinder Mahal: If that’s how you want it to be, I’ll show you what a champion can do.
Joe doesn’t even react and just barges past The Singh brothers bowling them over on his way elsewhere before we cut back to the ring…
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BRITISH STRONG STYLE makes their way out getting a fairly loud pop from the live crowd. The British trio stands at the top of the entrance ramp and poses before walking down the ramp. The commentary team points out this group's success on the British Independent scene and that they have won several titles within the WWE already. The unit gets into the ring and wait for their opponents…
THE UNGOVERNABLES to make their entrance! ZELINA VEGA leads her clients (CESARO, ILJA DRAGUNOV and ANGEL GARZA) out to the ring. EVA MARIE stands behind them as all three of them make a point to lift the World tag team and Cruiserweight titles respectfully trying to intimidate BSS but they don’t look phased. The commentary team mentions we could see a shifting of the guard this Sunday and British Strong Style could be the dominant force on Monday nights. In the ring, Ilja Dragunov looks to start for The Ungovernables whilst Pete Dunne starts for British Strong Style as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!
Match 8: British Strong Style vs The Ungovernables (Cesaro, Ilja Dragunov and Angel Garza) w/Zelina Vega and Eva Marie
Match summary: Pete Dunne and Ilja Dragunov take their time to size each other up, both familiar with each other from their time in Progress Wrestling. There is a smirk on their face before they lock up in the middle of the ring, trying to take each other down but the European uppercuts of Dragunov fire him away. This prompts Dunne to make the tag and brings in the larger Trent Seven into the match who comes face to face with the Cruiserweight!
Trent Seven starts to overpower Ilja, using his size plus veteran guile to his advantage and this sends Ilja to the corner looking to retreat as he brings Cesaro into the match! The two powerhouse of their respective teams come face to face and eye to eye in the middle of the ring. Trent tries to do what he did to Ilja but Cesaro is too skilled and powerful as he starts to dominate Trent Seven with ease which forces a tag to Tyler Bate bringing him into the match!
The commentary team compares the insane strength of Tyler Bate to feats Cesaro can do and the Tyler is quick to show off as he scoops up Cesaro and slams him down to the mat with a SPINEBUSTER! A big strong boi chant starts up from the live crowd who get behind the insane show of strength from Tyler Bate who carries on tossing Cesaro around the ring like he is a child! Cesaro is forced back into the corner and makes the tag bringing in the Cruiserweight Champion Angel Garza!
The commentary team reminds us that Tyler Bate was the one who ended the NXT Cruiserweight title reign of Angel Garza in NXT and this could be a chance to get some payback. Angel Garza mocks Bate and soon gets a smack in the jaw to send him back. Garza doesn’t react well and goes on the attack with a variety of kicks sending Tyler Bate back and trying to bring him down to the mat. Bate fights away from him and he tags Pete Dunne back into the match!
Garza looks noticeably worried and Pete Dunne senses it with a rare smile on his face as he grabs the arm of Garza and looks to immediately twist the arm ready to go for the finger break… GARZA PUNCHES HIM OFF AND DESPERATELY SCRAMBLES TO THE CORNER TO TAG CESARO IN SLAPPING HIS CHEST! Garza rolls out of the ring and goes to talk to his valet Eva Marie who checks his hand whilst Cesaro shakes his head and looks to go after Pete Dunne as the match carries on.
The match has a lot of quick tags from both teams showing their experience as units but it is clear that British Strong Style is overall the smoother team whilst The Ungovernables have a few issues working with each other and don’t seem on the same page even with Zelina Vega’s instance. As we reach the closing stages Pete Dunne is in the ring with Ija Dragunov as the legal man but the match completely breaks down as Cesaro and Trent Seven brawl on one side of the ring whilst Tyler Bate fights with Angel Garza!
Cesaro and Trent battle into the stands but Cesaro picks him up and SWINGS HIM INTO THE BARRICADE whilst across the ring Angel Garza tries to leap off the ring apron but GETS POWERBOMBED TO THE FLOOR BY BATE! In the ring, Ilja has taken control of the match and charges in looking for TORPEDO MOSCOW… DUNNE AVOIDS IT AS ILJA CRASHES INTO THE RING POST! Ilja bounces back wincing in pain and Dunne pounces on it as he lifts him up and connects with the BITTER END! Dunne hooks to leg and Bate stops Cesaro from breaking the cover as British Strong Style picks up a huge win!
Winners via pinfall: British Strong Style (13:09)
Loud cheers from the live crowd as Cesaro falls just short of saving the match for his team. Trent takes a few seconds to recover but he joins his younger tag team partners as they all raise their arms into the air to celebrate the win. Cesaro checks on Ilja before having a few words with Angel but Zelina stops it from getting too far, leaving Eva Marie and Angel Garza to kiss each other. The commentary team put over all the gold in The Ungovernables being in danger as we see British Strong Style celebrating before cutting backstage to see DREW MCINTYRE on the way to the ring for the main event up next!
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When we return from the commercial break, the commentary team hypes up the main event contract signing before confirming we will see Samoa Joe versus Jinder Mahal and Miz vs Erick Rowan on next week’s Raw before running down the main card for Armageddon:
WWE title match:
Drew McIntyre © vs Sheamus
Women’s Universal title match:
Shayna Baszler © vs Natalya
Intercontinental title match:
John Morrison © vs Xavier Woods
Cruiserweight title match:
Angel Garza © vs Pete Dunne
World tag team titles match:
The Ungovernables © vs Mustache Mountain
Number contender’s match for the WWE title at Summerslam:
Brock Lesnar vs Andrade Cien Almas
Number contender’s ladder match for the Cruiserweight title:
Mustafa Ali vs Dolph Ziggler vs Ricochet vs Oney Lorcan vs Kalisto vs Lio Rush
Grudge match:
Charlotte Flair vs Ronda Rousey
Grudge match:
Randy Orton vs Sami Zayn
The commentary team carries on hyping up the card before we cut to the ring and see WADE BARRETT standing in a suit with a microphone in his hand. The table behind him has a chair on either side and the contract in the middle as Wade speaks to the live crowd.
Wade Barrett: Tonight’s Monday Night Raw has been action-packed and I intend to make sure as your commissioner to bring as much action to you whilst in charge of this brand!
A cheap pop but it gets the crowd excited.
Wade Barrett: And the main event at Armageddon should be just that! My close friends Drew McIntyre and Sheamus!
Loud cheers from the crowd as Barrett brings up his own history and friendship with both men from their times going up and down the UK.
Wade Barrett: Let’s bring them out to sign the contract for this Sunday starting with the challenger!
A fairly decent pop from the fans as SHEAMUS stands at the top of the ramp and sticks his arms out shouting “FELLA” before heading down the entrance ramp towards the ring. He walks to the ring with a smile on his face as the commentary team mention even a few months ago Sheamus was talking about the possibility of having to retire from wrestling due to his back issues but now is one match away from being a 5-time World champion. He steps into the ring not only shaking hands with Barrett but hugging him as well before taking a seat at the table. Wade then turns back to the live crowd.
Wade Barrett: And now it is time for the WWE Champion!
A huge pop from the live crowd as DREW MCINTYRE walks out onto the entrance ramp slowly as he smiles and starts to head down the entrance ramp. The commentary team put over how much work Drew put in to get to this point and how much being a fighting champion means to him. He slowly climbs into the ring before also shaking the hand of Wade and hugging him. He then takes a seat at the table across from his friend Sheamus and places the WWE title in the middle of it as Wade takes a seat at the head of the table.
Wade Barrett: Gentlemen, before I let you speak I want to say something myself to both of you.
Champion and challenger nod as Wade carries on speaking.
Wade Barrett: A lot of people may not know this but around the time you two were fighting up and down the UK, I was as well.
Wade smiles slightly looking slightly smug.
Wade Barrett: And fighting you two, I knew how good you were even when I was beating the pair of you.
Both shake their heads and Sheamus quips that’s not how he remembers it off-mic.
Wade Barrett: And I knew when we got here to WWE, we would win titles. We would take over.
Barrett points at himself.
Wade Barrett: A lot talk about my potential and whilst I never won the World or WWE title, I became a five-time Intercontinental Champion and King of the Ring!
Wade Barrett and Miz being the constant about the mid-10’s IC title picture for a while.
Wade Barrett: But you two have managed to eclipse me.
He turns to Sheamus first.
Wade Barrett: There is very little you haven’t done Sheamus.
The Celtic Warrior proudly nods as Wade lists off his accolades.
Wade Barrett: WWE, World, United States, tag team champion. King of the Ring, Money in the Bank and Royal Rumble winner to boot as well.
A true Hall of Famer career already for Sheamus.
Wade Barrett: You only have two things you haven’t won: The Intercontinental title and the Universal title.
Wade turns to Drew next.
Wade Barrett: But your rise is something to be proud of as well. You came to WWE as a young kid before you were ready and failed but even whilst failing you became a tag team champion and an Intercontinental champion.
Drew nods very accepting of his failures in the first run.
Wade Barrett: But you got fired. You didn’t let that hold you back. No you fought your way back to this company tearing through the UK indy scene.
Drew smiles and Sheamus nods agreeing with Wade.
Wade Barrett: When you can back you then tore through NXT and became the champion before coming back to Raw!
Wade leans forward looking at Drew.
Wade Barrett: And you may have taken a detour winning the World tag team titles with Dolph Ziggler and messing about with Shane McMahon…
Drew off-mic quips we all make mistakes.
Wade Barrett: You went on to win the Royal Rumble and defeat Roman Reigns to win that title.
Drew looks at it proudly as the crowd cheers for their champion.
Wade Barrett: Both of you have done the British wrestling scene proud and inspired the next generation like British Strong Style, Noam Dar, Grizzled Young Veterans. I could go on and name the entire NXT UK roster!
A rare mention of the British brand on the main product as the commentary team hypes up NXT UK.
Wade Barrett: Now I know you two have been dreaming of this match for years and for the chance to fight for the WWE title so I’m going to let you speak before signing the contract.
Both men nod and get loud cheers from the live crowd.
Wade Barrett: We will start with the challenger Sheamus.
The Celtic Warrior nods and grabs the microphone on the table as he looks directly at his friend and commissioner first.
Sheamus: Wade, are you trying to make me emotional fella?
Wade smiles and laughs slightly before Sheamus turns to his other friend and the WWE Champion.
Sheamus: Drew, this is what we fought our whole career for. Sunday night you and me in this ring fighting like the warriors we are.
Drew smiles and nods.
Sheamus: But remember fella, I know the pressure that comes with that title.
He points directly at the WWE title as Drew nods acknowledging his friend’s words.
Sheamus: I’ve been in your shoes myself and I’ve done good things but I also did things I’ll regret to stay champion because that title means so much to everyone.
Sheamus gives a slight smile.
Sheamus: And I wonder if you will do the same.
Drew looks a bit puzzled by that comment and a few of the crowd boo Sheamus. Sheamus puts his hands up.
Sheamus: I don’t think you will but better men than us have and I want this Sunday to be about the best fighter winning!
Sheamus puts down the microphone and signs the contract before turning it towards Drew. The champion takes a moment to think about his words next before lifting his microphone and responding to Sheamus.
Drew McIntyre: Sheamus, you have known me for many years and whilst I’ve done things I shouldn’t be proud of, I’m an honorable man.
Sheamus nods agreeing with that statement.
Drew McIntyre: I fought with everything I had to get back here and get this title from Roman Reigns.
He grabs his WWE title with Sheamus keeping his eyes on it.
Drew McIntyre: And I will keep working hard to be the best champion ever!
A strong goal from Drew who gets to his feet.
Drew McIntyre: So you if you want this back, you better give a harder fight than given anyone else.
He points at Sheamus who gets to his feet across from Drew.
Drew McIntyre: I want your best. Nothing less.
Sheamus quips back “Same to you Fella”. Drew nods and looks down as he signs the contract making the match official! Wade takes his microphone as Drew and Sheamus stand across from each other with a smile on both their face but pure determination.
Wade Barrett: And we have it official! Our main event for Armageddon: Drew McIntyre vs Sheamus for the WWE title!
The promo comes to an end with loud cheers from the live crowd and we close Raw with Drew McIntyre and Sheamus face to face shaking hands with one another. Two friends will go to war this Sunday as we fade to black!
Matches confirmed for next week:
Singles match:
The Miz vs Erick Rowan
Singles match:
Samoa Joe vs Jinder Mahal
Matchcard for Armageddon:
Kansas City, Missouri
July 5th
WWE title match:
Drew McIntyre © vs Sheamus
Women’s Universal title match:
Shayna Baszler © vs Natalya
Intercontinental title match:
John Morrison © vs Xavier Woods
Cruiserweight title match:
Angel Garza © vs Pete Dunne
World tag team titles match:
The Ungovernables © vs Mustache Mountain
Number contender’s match for the WWE title at Summerslam:
Brock Lesnar vs Andrade Cien Almas
Number contender’s ladder match for the Cruiserweight title:
Mustafa Ali vs Dolph Ziggler vs Ricochet vs Oney Lorcan vs Kalisto vs Lio Rush
Grudge match:
Charlotte Flair vs Ronda Rousey
Grudge match:
Randy Orton vs Sami Zayn
Pre-show - Tag team match:
Team Kick vs Franky Monet and Dana Brooke
Pre-show - Tag team match:
Breezango vs Noam Dar and ???
Matchcard for Summerslam:
Toronto, Canada
August 23rd
WWE title match:
Drew McIntyre or Sheamus © vs Brock Lesnar or Andrade Cien Almas
Universal title match:
Aleister Black © or Buddy Murphy vs Winner of the Elimination Chamber
EWR Rating:
65%