WWE 2019: No Wildcards

[Tg11]

- Sasha Banks & Bayley vs Ronda Rousey & Shayna Baszler for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship being the main event of the show going on last I definitely did not expect that. But this match definitely has to go down as one of the best Women's main events in this diary period. I was thoroughly entertained throughout and Sasha & Bayley going over here in this match to become WWE Women's Tag Team Champions means the MMA Horsewomen can't cross over shows anymore. Means Ronda has to stay on her own show on the blue brand on Smackdown and Shayna Baszler has to stay on her own show on the red brand on RAW.

- I wonder if this leads to the MMA Horsewomen kicking Ronda Rousey out of the group? Or Shayna gets kicked out of the group?

- Darkness continues to fall and rain on the WWE Universe as Aleister Black retains his WWE Universal Championship beating AJ Styles...now that Black has done that, it begs the question of who the next #1 Contender ends up being? Or who will get a WWE Universal Championship match at Royal Rumble 2021 to face Black especially on the blue brand?


- It seems that there might be trouble in paradise within The OC since Balor lost the WWE United States Championship back to Chad Gable and AJ lost his opportunity to become WWE Universal Champion losing to Aleister Black


- The Head of the Table, my Chief, your Chief our Tribal Chief Roman Reigns beats The Rated R Superstar Edge in this Dream Match...first time ever 1 on 1 match between these 2 in a clash of generations here. But with Roman beating Edge it just further solidifies Roman as being the best of this generation bar none. Roman I wonder if he sets his sights now on the WWE Universal Championship especially now that he's beaten Edge?

- I wonder if Roman Reigns will start to wear the Ula Fala signifying that he & he alone is the Tribal Chief of the Anoa'i Family?


- Zelina Vega's clients Shinsuke Nakamura & Dominik Dijakovic of The Ungovernables are in the 2021 Men's Royal Rumble Match...Nakamura is a former Rumble winner in 2018 and Dijakovic has never been in a Rumble so I wonder what that means for the rest of her clients like Andrade, Garza and Carrillo? Do they enter the Royal Rumble Match themselves as well?


- How about Zelina herself? Does she enter the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match as an entrant?

- I'm not surprised that her clients want the Tag Titles back

- Asuka ends the undefeated streak of Bianca Belair to retain her WWE Women's Championship...I mean Asuka had an undefeated streak herself for the longest before it was ended by Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 34 in 2018 and Asuka does the same all be it to Bianca Belair...but I wonder if Bianca decides to enter the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match?


- I can definitely see Ember Moon getting fined or even suspended after what she just did hitting that referee with a wicked elbow smash after Ember lost her match to Tay Conti...but Conti gets a huge win here...definitely has to put her in the conversation for the WWE Women's Championship


- Ronda Rousey says she's going to force the issue to get her WWE Women's Championship match against Asuka...but how is she going to do that? Attacking WWE Smackdown Commissioner Shawn Michaels because if she does that, that's an automatic fine & suspension so unless she just attacks her fellow superstars until Michaels gives her what she wants


- Chad Gable & Finn Balor for the WWE United States Championship in a 2 out of 3 Falls Match stole the show for me most definitely...what a back & forth match but it ends in Gable once again becoming WWE United States Champion...he is a how many time WWE United States Champion now in this diary?

 

[Roy Mustang]

- Sasha Banks & Bayley vs Ronda Rousey & Shayna Baszler for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship being the main event of the show going on last I definitely did not expect that. But this match definitely has to go down as one of the best Women's main events in this diary period. I was thoroughly entertained throughout and Sasha & Bayley going over here in this match to become WWE Women's Tag Team Champions means the MMA Horsewomen can't cross over shows anymore. Means Ronda has to stay on her own show on the blue brand on Smackdown and Shayna Baszler has to stay on her own show on the red brand on RAW.

- I wonder if this leads to the MMA Horsewomen kicking Ronda Rousey out of the group? Or Shayna gets kicked out of the group?

- Darkness continues to fall and rain on the WWE Universe as Aleister Black retains his WWE Universal Championship beating AJ Styles...now that Black has done that, it begs the question of who the next #1 Contender ends up being? Or who will get a WWE Universal Championship match at Royal Rumble 2021 to face Black especially on the blue brand?


- It seems that there might be trouble in paradise within The OC since Balor lost the WWE United States Championship back to Chad Gable and AJ lost his opportunity to become WWE Universal Champion losing to Aleister Black


- The Head of the Table, my Chief, your Chief our Tribal Chief Roman Reigns beats The Rated R Superstar Edge in this Dream Match...first time ever 1 on 1 match between these 2 in a clash of generations here. But with Roman beating Edge it just further solidifies Roman as being the best of this generation bar none. Roman I wonder if he sets his sights now on the WWE Universal Championship especially now that he's beaten Edge?

- I wonder if Roman Reigns will start to wear the Ula Fala signifying that he & he alone is the Tribal Chief of the Anoa'i Family?


- Zelina Vega's clients Shinsuke Nakamura & Dominik Dijakovic of The Ungovernables are in the 2021 Men's Royal Rumble Match...Nakamura is a former Rumble winner in 2018 and Dijakovic has never been in a Rumble so I wonder what that means for the rest of her clients like Andrade, Garza and Carrillo? Do they enter the Royal Rumble Match themselves as well?


- How about Zelina herself? Does she enter the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match as an entrant?

- I'm not surprised that her clients want the Tag Titles back

- Asuka ends the undefeated streak of Bianca Belair to retain her WWE Women's Championship...I mean Asuka had an undefeated streak herself for the longest before it was ended by Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania 34 in 2018 and Asuka does the same all be it to Bianca Belair...but I wonder if Bianca decides to enter the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match?


- I can definitely see Ember Moon getting fined or even suspended after what she just did hitting that referee with a wicked elbow smash after Ember lost her match to Tay Conti...but Conti gets a huge win here...definitely has to put her in the conversation for the WWE Women's Championship


- Ronda Rousey says she's going to force the issue to get her WWE Women's Championship match against Asuka...but how is she going to do that? Attacking WWE Smackdown Commissioner Shawn Michaels because if she does that, that's an automatic fine & suspension so unless she just attacks her fellow superstars until Michaels gives her what she wants


- Chad Gable & Finn Balor for the WWE United States Championship in a 2 out of 3 Falls Match stole the show for me most definitely...what a back & forth match but it ends in Gable once again becoming WWE United States Champion...he is a how many time WWE United States Champion now in this diary?

Chad Gable is now a 2 time United States Champion in this diary

 

[Tg11]

The road to WrestleMania 37 (Jerry World Cowboys Stadium in Dallas, Texas) in this diary starts now as we are on our way to Royal Rumble 2021 as a pay per view and Royal Rumble is one of my favorite pay per views of the whole calendar year...why?

Because we get 2 Royal Rumble Matches...1 for the Men and 1 for the Women...whoever wins their respective Royal Rumble Matches gets a main event Championship match against the champion of their choice at WrestleMania either on Night 1 or on Night 2


And then you have the Championship Matches with Samoa Joe of The Hurt Business defending his WWE Championship at the Royal Rumble against Sami Zayn who won a 20 Man Over the Top Rope Battle Royal to get this opportunity

Aleister Black is most likely defending his WWE Universal Championship at Royal Rumble 2021 but against who? We don't know


Charlotte Flair or Shayna Baszler depending on whoever wins that match for the WWE Women's Universal Championship is going to have to defend that title at the Rumble


Asuka with her being WWE Women's Champion is also going to have to defend her title at the PPV as well

 

[Roy Mustang]

Post-PPV News update

Correct answers for the predictions contest:
TG11: 12/25
RDT: 3/25

So TG11 will get to pick an entrant into the Women’s Rumble!

Asuka vs Taynara Conti signed for the Royal Rumble PPV!
​

A big announcement coming out of the New Year Revolution PPV is Taynara Conti being granted a shot at the WWE Women’s title against Asuka, after overcoming Ember Moon earlier tonight. HBK clearly feels Conti has earned a huge opportunity versus the Empress of tomorrow and she will get the chance to fight her at the Royal Rumble PPV. Will she be able to pull off another huge shock like she did when she tossed Sasha Banks out of the Rumble last year and made the final four?

A last-minute booking change to the PPV
​

One title change that shocked a few people was Chad Gable winning back the United States title from Finn Balor. Sources say the decision to have Balor drop the title to Gable was a last-minute call and was due to changing of plans for the Road to WrestleMania for both men plus another superstar as well. It’s not been confirmed which superstar the changes were made for but it is rumoured that the plans for Finn Balor were to defend his United States title against AJ Styles.

Ember Moon fined for her assault on a referee

Ember Moon has been fined by Shawn Michaels after she attacked the referee in the closing stages of her singles match with Taynara Conti earlier tonight. Ember Moon took to social media to complain about the fine and called the referee a “hussy” as her temper issues carry on.

Injury update list (EWR):
R-Truth (9-12 months)
John Morrison (6-9 months)
A-Kid (6-9 months)
Shane Throne (6-9 months)
Candice LeRae (3-6 months)
Bobby Lashley (1-3 months)
Elias (1-3 months)
Jey Uso (1-3 months)
Montez Ford (1-3 months)
Pete Dunne (1-3 months)
Liv Morgan (Unknown)
Hanson (Unknown)
Lacey Evans (unknown)
Bobby Roode (unknown)
Randy Orton (unknown)

Matchcard for Royal Rumble
January 31st 2021
St Louis, Missouri
The Dome at Americans Center

EVA UNDER FIRE – I WILL FIGHT

Men’s Royal Rumble match:
Braun Strowman, Daniel Bryan, Dominik Dijakovic, Drew McIntyre, Keith Lee, Kofi Kingston, Shinsuke Nakamura and 23 entrants

Women’s Royal Rumble match:
Billie Kay, Deonna Purrazzo, Franky Monet, Natalya, Nia Jax, Peyton Royce, Rhea Ripley and 23 other entrants

WWE title match:
Samoa Joe © vs Sami Zayn

WWE Women’s title match:
Asuka © vs Taynara Conti

And

Bad Bunny will perform his new song: Booker T!​

 

[Tg11]

Picking a women's Royal Rumble Match entrant I will tell you via DM because I don't wanna ruin it

Asuka being a fighting champion facing Tay Conti for the WWE Women's Championship...no doubt will be babyface vs babyface as a contest with the crowd being torn

Makes sense why you didn't pull the trigger on Balor/Styles especially because you wanna build towards an OC Civil War I'm sure and if that's the plan then seeds would have to be planted more...but either Styles gets kicked out of the faction or Balor does

Ember Moon gets fined but Shawn as GM should have suspended Ember indefinitely to further make an example out of her

But knowing Ember like I do...I can see her forcing HBK's hand and he has no choice but to add Ember into the match to make it a Triple Threat Match at the Rumble

 

[Tg11]

But Ronda Rousey did say she would force her way into getting a rematch against Asuka for that title...so I wonder if Ronda instead gets added into the mix and it becomes a whole Fatal 4 Way Match for the title at the Rumble?

Or does Ronda enter the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match? Her fellow MMA Horsewomen teammate Natalya is already in the match so I wonder if Ronda decides that the only way to get back to the title is if she enters the Women's Royal Rumble Match?

 

[Roy Mustang]

Monday Night Raw
January 4th 2021
Brooklyn, New York
Barclays Centre

HOUSE OF MEMORIES – PANIC AT THE DISCO

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*WORLDS APART*​

The first Monday Night Raw of 2021 begins with the number one contender for the WWE title SAMI ZAYN making his way out to the ring getting loud cheers from the live crowd. The commentary team of Michael Cole and Elias welcome us to the show. They hype up the main event which will see Keith Lee defend his NXT World title against James Storm but to start the show we are going to hear from Sami Zayn! They confirm he won last week’s battle royal to earn the WWE title shot at the Royal Rumble as the Underdog from the Underground hops into the ring!

Sami takes a moment before speaking to the live crowd. He tells the fans that 2020 was a great year for him. He says it was rough missing out on WrestleMania but he got revenge on Randy Orton making sure he paid for what he did to him. Cheers from the live crowd as Sami brings up the biggest achievement for him: winning the Intercontinental title, his first singles gold since NXT! He says the moment he beat John Morrison, it felt like he was arriving as a singles competitor after years away.

He talks about loving his best friend Kevin but sometimes feels defined by him. He says winning the tag team titles showed he could win gold and while he lost to Swerve Strickland at Starrcade, he knows he can beat Samoa Joe! Cheers from the live crowd as Sami says Samoa Joe is one of the most dominant superstars the WWE has seen and puts over his wins over Brock Lesnar, John Cena and Drew McIntyre but he knows he can overcome the odds and defeat…

*COLISEUM CLASH*​

SAMOA JOE INTERRUPTS WALKING ONTO THE ENTRANCE RAMP! He gets a loud mixed reaction from the live crowd standing at the top of the entrance ramp in a crisp suit. Sami Zayn shows no fear in the ring and welcomes him to join him inside but Joe declines. Joe says for Sami’s benefit, he is going to remain at the top of the entrance ramp because he wants to give Sami 4 weeks to prepare for the biggest beating he is ever going to receive in his life!

Loud boos from the live crowd as Joe smirks at the crowd and tells them they might not like it but they need to accept it, promising that Sami would have to take this title from his cold dead hands! Sami chuckles saying he plans on doing what he needs to take that title and references Joe taking years like him to get gold on Raw. Joe scowls and tells Sami they are nothing alike, with Joe pointing out his dominant reign as United States Champion in 2019.

Joe says he crushed everyone in his way while Sami Zayn just survived his challengers. Sami says he won in each of those battles, overcoming self-proclaimed legends and anyone willing to fight him. He tells Joe that he is willing to put his body on the line to become a World Champion as it is something he has dreamed of all of his life. Joe finishes the promo by saying he will be glad to crush the dreams of Sami Zayn and choke the life out of him!

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When we return from the commercial break, we see DANI LUNA leaving WADE BARRETT’S OFFICE before being stopped by CATHY KELLEY who is looking for an interview! She asks what Dani was talking to Wade Barrett about and with a smile on her face, she confirms she will be entering the Royal Rumble. She says she plans to keep up her momentum and earn the Women’s Universal title shot she missed out on last week but this time at WrestleMania 37!

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*FORCE OF GREATNESS*​

NIA JAX walks out onto the entrance ramp getting boos from the live crowd before walking to the ring with purpose. Michael Cole brings up her entrance into the Royal Rumble and wonders who will be able to eliminate her from the match. Elias says her missing a year of action means she missed last year’s match and it will be a new threat for the entire field.

*NUMBER ONE*​

MIA YIM gets a decent number of boos from the live crowd as she walks to the ring with a cocky attitude and talks trash to the fans. Michael Cole says she will be looking to impress Wade Barrett and get one of the Raw spots in the Royal Rumble. Elias says winning this match would go a long way to impressing the commissioner for the brand.

*PARTY ALL THE TIME*​

K2 make their way out onto the entrance ramp getting decent cheers from the fans. KATANA CHANCE and KAYDEN CARTER slap hands with a few of the kids in the front row, having a big smile on their faces. Michael Cole and Elias both agree that either woman entering the Royal Rumble would be a big deal at this early stage of their career plus they have the advantage coming into this match as they are used to teaming up. Kayden starts for K2 whilst Mia Yim starts for her team as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 1: K2 vs Nia Jax and Mia Yim​

Match summary: The match is a battle between the two game plans as K2 tries to use their pace to overwhelm the unusual duo whilst Mia Yim tries to use her partner’s power to get them out of dodge and pick up the win. In the closing stages, K2 keeps Mia Yim isolated in the ring and doesn’t let Nia get a tag to come back into the match allowing Katana Chance to hit Mia Yim with a 450 SPLASH FOR THE WIN!

Winners via pinfall: K2 (5:25)​

Carter jumps into the ring and celebrates with Katana Chance, with the duo having picked up a big win on Raw and maybe giving one of them a spot in the Royal Rumble. Nia Jax fumes on the ring apron as the commentary team puts over the game plan of K2 being the difference of this match, showing the strengths of being an established team in a tag team match. Mia Yim gets back to her feet looking annoyed at the loss… NIA JAX ATTACKS HER FROM BEHIND!

Mia Yim falls to the mat as the crowd cheers for a moment… UNTIL NIA JAX WIPES OUT K2 AS WELL! She lays a beating on the two party girls as well as her tag team partner tonight, clearly not happy about the loss ahead of the rumble. She lays each of them out with a POWERSLAM before standing tall after throwing them all out of the ring. The commentary team wonders if this is a sign of things to come in the Royal Rumble in four weeks!

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When we return from the commercial break, we see JAMES STORM arriving at the arena with a cowboy hat and a suitcase, with a crate of beer resting on top of it. He is stopped for an interview by TOM PHILLIPS who asks how he is feeling ahead of his main event match tonight for the NXT title. James’s smirking tells Tom that the main event is where he belongs and that’s what he has been telling people when his tag partner Bobby Roode was by his side and he’ll say it twice as loud now.

Tom Phillips asks how he has prepared for tonight’s main event. James Storm says he is saving the beer and celebrations for when he wins the NXT title but he has made sure he is stocked up early, promising to even bring some beer to ringside to celebrate there and then. Tom finishes up the interview by asking James Storm if the rumor of him being picked for the Rumble is true. Storm smirks and says it is, telling Tom he will be walking into the match as NXT Champion!

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MUSTAFA ALI is then shown walking through an alleyway in a hoodie with a serious look on his face. He says this is the second time he has felt this close to an opportunity at the WWE title. He gives Sami Zayn credit and says if there was a man he was going to lose to, it was at least a worthy one in Sami. He says the last time this happened it was another worthy man who got his spot, Kofi Kingston as he brings up the injury that took him out of the Elimination Chamber and started Kofimania!

He remembers those days and his rivalry at the time with one Samoa Joe! He takes a moment smiling and says Joe like him, has come a long way since then. Both winning gold and making a name for themselves. He says he beat Joe in those days and he knows he is capable of doing it again. He informs us that he will be entering the Royal Rumble as he knows how to bring down the Hurt Business and not only does he want his Cruiserweight title back but he also wants the WWE title as well!

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When we return from the commercial break, PIPER NIVEN and MELINA are walking through the backstage area chatting to each other when they bump into the HOUSE OF COUTURE! JINNY and AMALE give the pair a dirty look prompting Piper to ask what their problem is. Jinny looks them up and down saying for starters their outfits are awful. Amale chimes in to say it is the typical fashion common American trash would wear. Piper rolls her eyes and reminds the pair she is Scottish.

Melina steps forward and tells Jinny she hasn’t forgotten what happened last week in the number one contender’s match. Jinny chimes in saying she would be happy to beat her like she beat her tag team partner. Both teams look like coming to blows when WADE BARRETT appears and tells them to stop fighting. He tells both teams he is still making up his mind on which Raw superstars will enter the Rumble but says it will be Piper vs Amale and Melina vs Jinny, asking the superstars to impress him if they want a spot in the match.

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We then cut to BREEZANGO standing backstage with a rare serious expression on their face. FANDANGO speaks first telling the camera that they are sick of The Hurt Business thinking this is their show to run and do as they please. TYLER BREEZE says they might be pretty but they are not afraid to get in a fight and promises they are not done trying to take gold from the Hurt Business. Breezango made it clear that they are coming for the World tag team titles and they intend on finally breaking their duck when it comes to being champions.

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*COMBATIVE*​

ONEY LORCAN makes his way out getting boos from the live crowd. He has a scowl on his face as he walks to the ring, looking all business tonight. He is flanked by his tag team partner DANNY BURCH on the way to the ring as well. The commentary team confirms this match was made per the request of Angelo Dawkins after they taunted his tag team partner Montez Ford’s recent broken arm.

*BRING THE SWAG*​

ANGELO DAWKINS gets a decent pop from the live crowd and even brings out a few red cups, passing them to fans in the crowd as he tries to psyche them up. Michael Cole says Angelo Dawkins is not known for his singles exploits but he has a chance to prove himself tonight against a game Oney Lorcan. Elias says he will need to watch for Danny on the outside. Both men are in the ring as the referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!

Match 2: Angelo Dawkins vs Oney Lorcan w/Danny Burch​

Match summary: Angelo comes into this match with a size advantage but Oney is more experienced with singles matches. He uses his strikes and chops to wear down Dawkins and keeps away from his power game in this match. Danny watches from ringside, taunting Dawkins in the ring but he stays out of the match confident Oney will be able to put away Dawkins. However, Dawkins survives the offense of Oney Lorcan and puts him away with THE SILENCER (Spinning neckbreaker)!

Winner via pinfall: Angelo Dawkins (7:25)​

Angelo Dawkins gets to his feet as Danny Burch looks furious outside the ring. The commentary team puts this over as a big win for Angelo Dawkins and proves he can hang in the ring just like his tag team partner Montez Ford. Danny Burch pulls Oney Lorcan out of the ring and retreats up the entrance ramp talking trash whilst Dawkins carries on his celebrations in the ring.

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*LOYALTY IS EVERYTHING*​

SHAYNA BASZLER makes her way out onto the entrance ramp getting loud boos from the live crowd and for the first time since June 8th 2020, she is without any gold around her waist. She has a scowl on her face and is followed by a bit more of a timid-looking NATALYA and JESSAMYN DUKE! Michael Cole fills in those who missed the New Year’s Revolution PPV that the Boss ‘N’ Connection as a team won the tag team titles for the third time last night with Banks and Bayley in their own rights becoming 4-time champions.

Elias says Shayna Baszler looked angry last night and doesn’t think she has calmed down since then. She climbs into the ring and snatches the microphone from a stagehand starting the promo by saying she wants to address last night. She reminds the crowd that she was not pinned last night and it was Ronda’s fault they lost the tag team titles! That gets some looks from Natalya and Jessamyn Duke behind her as Shayna blames Ronda for being in the wrong position and that’s what cost them the tag team titles!

Shayna tells the crowd that due to them being on different brands, they have been told by Wade Barrett, Shawn Michaels and William Regal they will not be getting a rematch for their titles getting loud cheers from the crowd prompting a scowl from Shayna. She says they are trying to hold the MMA Horsewomen back because they know how dangerous we are! She says that it is fine because when she gets back her Women’s Universal title and Ronda becomes WWE Women’s Champion again, they will no longer be able to deny us. Loud boos from the crowd as Shayna looks to carry on…

*ALL HAIL THE QUEEN*​

CHARLOTTE FLAIR WALKS OUT WITH A MICROPHONE IN HAND! She gets a loud pop as she is at the top of the entrance ramp looking at Shayna Baszler. She tells Shayna that this title is going nowhere and no one loves gold more than a Flair. Shayna points at Charlotte promising she will break every limb Charlotte has to take back that title but Charlotte says she will fight with everything she has to make sure this title stays out of Shayna’s hands. The crowd is loudly behind the Queen but Shayna promises to break her and if they fought 100 times, she would win 99 out of them calling Starrcade a fluke.

Charlotte smirks and seems to have an idea due to that statement. She tells Shayna that she believes that, why don’t they add a stipulation to next week’s match? Shayna says she will beat Charlotte in whatever match she wants and Charlotte challenges her to an hour-long Ironwoman match! Loud cheers from the crowd as Shayna in the ring accepts and promises that by the end of the hour, every limb on Charlotte’s body will be broken. Charlotte counters saying she is her father’s daughter and no one can do an Ironwoman match like a Flair!

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When we return from the commercial break, we see CATHY KELLEY standing ready for an interview and introducing her guest at this time: KEITH LEE! He has the NXT title over his shoulder and a smug smirk on his face as Cathy asks how he is feeling ahead of the main event. Keith gives James Storm credit calling him an experienced veteran who has wrestled for years but has always been in his partner’s shadow. He tells Storm he has some bad news for him promising he will now be in his shadow instead.

Cathy says Keith Lee must be feeling confident about his match tonight and he nods, telling her that he is limitless and there is a reason he has been NXT Champion for 6 months. She then changes the subject to the Royal Rumble as she wonders if he has a plan for it. Keith shakes his head but says he wants to add a title to his other shoulder once again and says whilst the Rumble is full of top stars, all of them will bask in his glory bringing the interview to an end!

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We next cut to WADE BARRETT’S office and we can see DAKOTA KAI and RUBY RIOTT standing in front of his desk. He thanks them for coming to see him and tells them that they will be fighting on next week’s Raw in a number one contender’s match with the winner fighting either Charlotte Flair or Shayna Baszler for the Women’s Universal title at the Royal Rumble. Both women smile and talk a bit of trash to each other with Ruby finishing the promo and reminding us of the fact she has never won gold in WWE!

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We cut to the ring as TONY NESE is shown waiting in the ring for his opponent with a smile on his face but that soon fades when he sees it is…

*BROKEN DREAMS*​

DREW MCINTYRE! A loud pop from the live crowd as Drew McIntyre marches down the ramp and the former WWE Champion heads straight to the ring. Michael Cole says we heard Drew McIntyre declare himself for the Royal Rumble to get another crack at Samoa Joe and he has to be considered one of the favorites! Elias makes it clear he would not want to get on Drew’s bad side or cross paths with him in the rumble if he were to enter. Drew stands in the ring as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 3: Drew McIntyre vs Tony Nese​

Match summary: Drew McIntyre doesn’t even let Tony Nese get a single move off and batters the Cruiserweight, picking up the win with the FUTURESHOCK DDT!

Winner via pinfall: Drew McIntyre (1:30)​

Loud cheers from the live crowd as Drew gets back to his feet and the commentary team goes over how dominant the victory was. Drew McIntyre signals to someone at ringside for a microphone which is passed to him. He has a smile on his face and keeps it short as he tells the fans that he is getting back on track and that Samoa Joe better keep that title warm for him because Drew intends to win the Royal Rumble again! He throws the microphone down and stands tall in the ring as we cut to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we cut to inside the NEW DAY LOCKER with BIG E, KOFI KINGSTON and XAVIER WOODS standing together as a unit. Big E has the New-Day-themed briefcase on show before telling the camera that they might not have won last week’s battle royal but he still has this, slapping the briefcase. He tells the camera that’s not all because Kofi is not the only member of the New Day entering the Royal Rumble.

Woods chimes in to confirm that not only is Big E entering the Royal Rumble but so is he and says he wants his Kofimania moment just like Big E. Kofi also mentions that Woods tossed a champion out last night and Woods smiles telling Swerve Strickland that he knows he can be a champion, issuing a challenge for his Intercontinental title! Big E wraps the promo up by telling Tommaso Ciampa that he is not finished with him and his sneak attacks promising to see him soon.

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*COAT OF ARMS*​

ANGEL GARZA and HUMBERTO CARRILLO walk out onto the entrance ramp getting boos from the live crowd as they head to the ring. Michael Cole confirms that Zelina Vega and Andrade Cien Almas have taken the week off so these two are here alone. Elias says we were meant to be seeing Pete Dunne versus Angel Garza in a submission match tonight but due to an injury Dunne picked up at the hands of Tommaso Ciampa, he is out of action for the next month and will miss the Royal Rumble!

Angel Garza and Humberto Carrillo climb into the ring with them each grabbing a microphone. Humberto confirms what Michael Cole said and says their leaders are taking a week off to come up with a plan to deal with the ingrates Cesaro and Ilja Dragunov. Angel chimes in saying those two did not understand their place and what a beautiful woman like Zelina can guide them to. He brings up his Cruiserweight title reign plus the gold all of them had won including Nakamura and Dijakovic on Smackdown Live!

Angel says that’s not why he is out here tonight, wagging his finger with a cocky smirk on his face. He tells the crowd that he came out here ready for his fight with Pete Dunne but hasn’t seen him all day. Loud boos from the crowd who know that Pete Dunne is injured and that’s why he is running scared. Humberto joins in with the mocking and tells the crowd that Dunne is scared of his cousin, knowing he would get his fingers broken in return. They look to carry on until…

*MUSTACHE MOUNTAIN*​

MUSTACHE MOUNTAIN make their way out! A decent pop from the live crowd as the tag team and allies of Pete Dunne as part of British Strong Style walk out with a microphone. TRENT SEVEN says he knows these two don’t have the brains within the Ungovernables group but they know Pete Dunne would be here to kick both of their asses if he was not injured. TYLER BATE tells the pair they will be happy to take his place and kick their ass tonight as they drop their microphones heading for the ring. The Ungovernables leave the ring not backing down but before they can collide…

*GOD SAVE THE QUEEN/END OF DAYS*​

WADE BARRETT! The commissioner for Monday Night Raw comes onto the entrance ramp with a smile on his face. He thanks all four men as he has been struggling to think of a replacement match for Angel after Pete’s injury but they have given him an idea as he makes a tag team match between the two teams for right now and brings out a referee as Raw goes to a commercial break!

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Match 4: The Ungovernables vs Mustache Mountain​

Match summary: As we return from the commercial break, the match is underway with the Ungovernables controlling the match. The commentary team mentions the cousins are not used to teaming with each other but being family they are familiar with one another as they work over Trent Seven. Trent escapes and makes the tag to bring Tyler Bate back into the match and is on fire taking down both his fellow Cruiserweights. He sends Angel Garza out of the ring before turning his attention to Carrillo planting him with the TYLER DRIVER 97 and making the cover to pick up the win!

Winners via pinfall: Mustache Mountain (10:39)​

Mustache Mountain gets to their feet as they celebrate the victory tonight over The Ungovernables. The commentary team puts over the performance from them, especially Tyler Bate and also brings up him tossing Lio Rush from the battle royal last week. Tyler Bate also makes his intentions clear as he signals to the camera, he is coming for the Cruiserweight title as we cut backstage to see…

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THE HURT BUSINESS! We see MVP standing in a crisp suit with the rest of the Hurt Business: SAMOA JOE, SWERVE STRICKLAND, LIO RUSH, CEDRIC ALEXANDER, SHELTON BENJAMIN and EJ NDUKA all standing behind him with all the male titles on Raw on show, showing the power the group holds over Monday Night Raw! MVP says when you have power and you run things, everyone wants your throne! He says they have enemies from all sides coming for them.

Samoa Joe steps forward saying that might be the case but it just means more victims for them to destroy and keep the business booming, lifting his WWE title in the air. Lio Rush chimes in saying he saw Tyler Bate and says if he wants a shot at the Cruiserweight title, he will take him on. Cedric mocks Breezango and tells the pair of them there is a reason neither of them has won gold, promising to keep their duck going. The camera focuses on Swerve who has a smirk on his face and says he wants to address his business in the ring, walking off as EJ Nduka follows him whilst Raw goes on a commercial break.

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*BIG PRESSURE*​

SWERVE STRICKLAND makes his way out getting loud boos from the crowd, flanked by EJ NDUKA! Swerve has the Intercontinental title on his shoulder and is still in a crisp suit as the duo walks to the ring. Elias mentions that Swerve has become a hunted man ever since winning that title with both Sheamus and Xavier Woods making claims about wanting shots at that title. Michael Cole wonders how Swerve will respond, reminding the crowd he has only been pinned once since joining Monday Night Raw!

Swerve Strickland climbs into the ring and is passed a microphone by EJ Nduka with the big man smiling. Swerve has a smirk as he looks at the live crowd. He listens to the loud boos from the fans and jokes he is a popular man. He knows that multiple people want this title, lifting the Intercontinental title into the air and says this is the title that shows who the true workhorse in a company is. He tells the crowd that holding this means you are the hardest worker on the roster and the future.

He places the title back on his shoulder and carries on. He tells the fans there would be something wrong if people were not after him and the rest of the Hurt Business. That’s why he came out to this ring to discuss business as he heard last week one man wants to speak to him face to face: Sheamus. A loud pop at the mention of the Celtic Warrior as Swerve runs down his accolades and comments there is one title he hasn’t won: lifting his Intercontinental title into the air. He looks to carry on until…

*WRITTEN IN MY FACE*​

SHEAMUS WALKS OUT! The Celtic Warrior stands on the entrance ramp and beats his chest shouting his signature Fella before walking to the ring. Swerve has a smirk on his face as EJ Nduka stands next to him with his arms folded, cutting an imposing presence. Sheamus gets to the ring apron and climbs into the ring, joining them inside the ring. Swerve still has a smirk on his face offering a hand to Sheamus but the Celtic Warrior says no offense but he doesn’t trust Swerve.

The champion chuckles and holds his hands up saying he can’t blame him for not trusting him because he wouldn’t either. Sheamus says he didn’t come out here to talk about respect or friendship. He came out here because Swerve has the one title he wants more than any other, pointing at the Intercontinental title around his waist. Sheamus says the back injury he had in 2019 nearly ended his career and he knows that at any moment it might come to an end so he wants no regrets!

He challenges Swerve to put his title on the line against him tonight. The crowd loudly cheers for that idea as Swerve thinks for a moment before declining to loud boos from the fans. He tells Sheamus he is a busy man, confirming that he is entering the Royal Rumble but he also has a man who he feels is worthy of a title shot first. Swerve says Xavier Woods is first in line but says maybe Sheamus can earn a title shot soon and leaves the ring, followed by EJ Nduka as he gets boos from the live crowd.

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When we return from the commercial break, we cut to RHEA RIPLEY who is standing in front of a chain link fence with a smug smile on her face. She looks at the camera and says these last few months since she came to Raw, she has had fun taking down the competition. She says that the Royal Rumble is where she proves herself to be the most dominant force on the roster and brings up her breaking the elimination record during last year’s match. She finishes the promo telling us we haven’t seen anything yet!

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*SOLID GROUND*​

RICK BOOGS makes his way out getting cheers but it is a very small amount from the live crowd. He is joined by his tag team partner HEATH SLATER who tries to hype his friend up for this match. The commentary team reminds us of the fact this match was made after Baron Corbin mocked the letters Heath has been getting and Rick wasn’t going to stand for it.

*I BRING THE DARKNESS*​

BARON CORBIN walks out with a smug grin on his face getting loud boos from the live crowd. Michael Cole wonders if Rick Boogs is back to 100% after being punted in the skull by Randy Orton. Elias though cannot hide his disdain for Baron Corbin as the two men trade words by the commentary desk. Corbin heads into the ring as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 5: Rick Boogs w/Heath Slater vs Baron Corbin​

Match summary: Rick Boogs tries to keep up with the more experienced Baron Corbin during this match but it is clear he is shaking off some ring rust. Corbin taunts the fans and Heath Slate before putting away Rick Boogs with the END OF DAYS!

Winner via pinfall: Baron Corbin (4:15)​

Baron Corbin gets to his feet and soaks in the boos from the live crowd. He considers doing more damage to Rick on the mat but Heath runs into the ring with a kendo stick to chase him off. Heath checks on his partner Rick to make sure he is OK as Corbin backs off, celebrating another victory on Raw tonight.

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When we return from the commercial break, we can see CESARO standing backstage with his close friend ILJA DRAGUNOV! Cesaro says he knew Andrade would take the night off because he is a coward, scared of what Cesaro will do to him when he finally gets his hands on him. Ilja is fired up and says for too long they fought with men who had no honor, who acted like cowards but now it is time they make them pay and bring the Ungovernables down. Cesaro nods promising to see all of them next week.

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We then cut to inside the locker room as TEAM KICK is hanging out with each other. DAKOTA KAI has a smile on her face as TEGAN NOX says she is going to kill it and kick Ruby’s ass on the way to a Women’s Universal title shot. Kai says she is looking forward to the match and the chance to fight for the Women’s Universal title. Tegan then says she has some news of her own as she tells Dakota Kai that she is entering the Royal Rumble. Dakota jokes about them fighting each other at WrestleMania 37 as CHARLOTTE FLAIR WALKS IN!

She has a bit of a frown on her face as she looks at her allies the last few months and clutches her Women’s Universal title a bit tighter. She tells the pair that if they come for her title, she has no problem reminding her allies who the Queen is. Dakota senses some tension and changes the subject to next week as she promises to have Charlotte’s back next week to stop any interference from the MMA Horsewomen. The Queen nods saying she appreciates before coldly walking out of the room.

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When we return from the commercial break, we see TOMMASO CIAMPA sitting on a steel chair leaning on the back as he looks at the camera with an angry scowl. He tells us that he should be fighting for the WWE title at the Royal Rumble, not Sami Zayn. He claims his loss only came down to Ali and Sami realizing they needed to team up to take him down because neither of them could do it alone. He shakes his head calling himself a wanted man on all sides.

He tells Big E that he should be focusing on claiming gold but maybe if he did, Ciampa might view him as being worthy of his time. He smirks before telling the camera that’s where his focus is because he is entering the Royal Rumble. He promises to do whatever it takes, with Pete Dunne being an example of what he will do to win. He finishes the promo by telling us Mustafa Ali is next on the hit list and will make him pay for teamwork with Sami last week!

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*CALLING YOU OUT*​

DANI LUNA makes her way out to the ring, joined at the top of the entrance ramp by the rest of SUBCULTURE who wishes her luck before heading to the back. She gets decent cheers from the crowd having impressed on last week’s Raw in the number one contender’s match. Michael Cole says it was a breakout performance for the British superstar last week and she will look to keep that momentum tonight. Elias says wins are key en route to the Royal Rumble as she waits in the ring for…

*OBSESSION*​

MICKIE JAMES! She is not alone, joined by her tag team partner ALEXA BLISS as the duo get boos from the live crowd. Michael Cole says he has heard from Wade Barrett that both these women will be in the Royal Rumble. Elias puts them both over as multiple-time former Women’s Champions and they will be a threat to anyone who tries to stop them in the Royal Rumble. Mickie James now steps into the ring with Dani, giving her a look of disgust as the referee calls for the bell to start the match!

Match 6: Dani Luna vs Mickie James w/Alexa Bliss​

Match summary: Mickie James doesn’t show much respect to the young Brit and it soon hurts her as Dani controls the match, easily overpowering the veteran and tossing her around the ring. Bliss watches on from ringside looking annoyed as Mickie tries to fight back against Dani but she cannot get a foothold in the match. In the closing stages, Mickie fakes an injury allowing BLISS TO CLOCK DANI LUNA WITH HER LOADED GLOVE! Dani stumbles back and Mickie hits the MICKIE-DT! She makes the cover and picks up the win!

Winner via pinfall: Mickie James (5:40)​

Mickie James gets to her feet with a smirk on her face and rolls out of the ring, celebrating with Alexa Bliss. Michael Cole says Mickie is a crafty veteran and you have to watch out for her tricks any time you step into the ring with her. Elias says you have to give Alexa Bliss a big assist and wonders how dangerous these two could be if they are in the ring at the same time in four weeks. Dani Luna gets to her feet and glares at the duo as Raw goes to a commercial break.

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We come back from the final commercial break of the night, we cut to an angry PETE DUNNE with a graphic saying last week. He has a patch over his eye, sitting on one of the benches in the trainer room. He says the doctors have told him he will be out of action for a month and miss the Royal Rumble. He says he will keep this short and sweet. Angel, I will break your fingers when I am back. He then says "Tommaso Ciampa?”. You will pay for this, pointing at his eye before we cut to the ring for the main event!

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*DO I*​

JAMES STORM walks onto the entrance ramp getting boos from the crowd. He has his cowboy hat on his head and a beer bottle in hand as he takes a swing before carrying on to the ring. Michael Cole says this is a big opportunity for James Storm tonight to win his first gold in WWE. Elias says he spoke to Storm and heard from him he has been speaking to Bobby Roode for advice, with his injured tag team partner being a former NXT Champion.

*LIMITLESS*​

KEITH LEE makes his way out getting a loud pop from the live crowd! He stands there soaking in the reaction from the live crowd and lifts his NXT title into the air. Michael Cole says Keith Lee has been making a name for himself on Raw and NXT, holding the NXT title for half a year now whilst making semi-finals of King of the Ring only losing to the WWE Champion Samoa Joe. Elias says Keith has proven himself to break limits and it wouldn’t shock me if he is the first-ever NXT superstar to win the Royal Rumble! Keith stands in the ring across the ring from James Storm as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Main event: NXT title match: Keith Lee © vs James Storm​

Match summary: Keith Lee has a confident swagger whilst James Storm is very mouthy in the opening stages of the match. James goes on the attack and is aggressive early on in this match but struggles to even take Keith Lee off his feet as the NXT Champion dominates the match. James tries to go for the standard strategy of taking down the big man by chopping down their legs and bringing them to the mat but Keith overpowers him and EVEN SHOWS OFF HIS AGILITY POUNCING JAMES STORM OVER THE ROPES!

James Storm gets frustrated and he doesn’t gain a foothold in the match before KEITH LEE DIVES OVER THE TOP ROPES WIPING HIM OUT ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE RING! Keith Lee stays in control and rolls James Storm back into the ring, showing off his flashy offense that only he can do. James Storm starts to fight back in the middle portion of the match but nothing he can do will put away the NXT Champion who is too powerful for him to keep down!

As we enter the closing stages, James Storm hits the LAST CALL SUPERKICK but Keith Lee kicks out at 2! James Storm looks to the corner of the ring and starts to mess with the turnbuckle pad, tossing it to the mat. The referee obviously catches him and goes to fix it, allowing Storm to grab HIS BEER BOTTLE! He looks to swing it at Keith… BUT HE CATCHES IT AND CRUSHES IT IN HIS HAND! James looks shocked as Keith hits a headbutt BEFORE DROPPING HIM WITH THE SPIRIT BOMB! Keith makes the cover and retains his NXT title!

Winner via pinfall and still NXT Champion: Keith Lee (12:46)​

Keith Lee gets to his feet and holds the NXT title in the air to loud cheers from the crowd. Michael Cole puts over the feats that Keith showed in the ring whilst Elias focuses on his crushing that beer bottle like it was nothing. Both men agree that anyone trying to toss Keith Lee out of the Royal Rumble is going to have a hard time as Raw comes to a close with Keith Lee standing tall in the ring with the NXT title above his head!

Confirmed matches for next week:

Women’s Universal title Iron Woman match:
Charlotte Flair © vs Shayna Baszler

Women’s Universal title number one contender’s match:
Dakota Kai vs Ruby Riott

Singles match:
Tommaso Ciampa vs Mustafa Ali

Singles match:
Piper Niven vs Amale

Singles match:
Melina vs Jinny

Matchcard for Royal Rumble
January 31st 2021
St Louis, Missouri
The Dome at Americans Center

EVA UNDER FIRE – I WILL FIGHT

Men’s Royal Rumble match:
Big E, Braun Strowman, Daniel Bryan, Dominik Dijakovic, Drew McIntyre, James Storm, Keith Lee, Kofi Kingston, Mustafa Ali, Shinsuke Nakamura, Swerve Strickland, Tommaso Ciampa, Xavier Woods and 17 entrants

Women’s Royal Rumble match:
Alexa Bliss, Billie Kay, Dani Luna, Deonna Purrazzo, Franky Monet, Mickie James, Natalya, Nia Jax, Peyton Royce, Rhea Ripley, Tegan Nox and 19 other entrants

WWE title match:
Samoa Joe © vs Sami Zayn

Women’s Universal title match:
Charlotte Flair or Shayna Baszler © vs Dakota Kai or Ruby Riott

WWE Women’s title match:
Asuka © vs Taynara Conti

And

Bad Bunny will perform his new song: Booker T!

EWR Rating:
67%​

 

[Tg11]

- The first RAW of the New Year in 2021 and it definitely was a jam packed one that's for damn sure

- Keith Lee retains his NXT Championship in the main event beating James Storm...what a match...Keith Lee definitely has to be a favorite in the Men's Royal Rumble Match given how dominant he's been in NXT and on the main roster...or at best he has to be a dark horse

- McIntyre won the whole thing last year in the 2020 Men's Royal Rumble Match in this diary and he plans on going back to back...that hasn't been done in decades since 97/98 when Austin did it...but if anyone is capable, it is Drew

- But I wonder if Cesaro & Dragunov enter the 2021 Men's Royal Rumble Match? Or I wonder if Andrade plans on entering the 2021 Men's Royal Rumble Match considering this last time last year Andrade was the champion defending his title and now he has no title. I mean his fellow Ungovernables members Nakamura & Dijakovic are already in so.


- Dani Luna is in the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match...another huge addition along with Tegan Nox, Mickie James and Alexa Bliss...I wonder if Melina and Piper Niven enter?


- A #1 Contenders Match...WWE Women's Universal Championship...Dakota Kai vs Ruby Riott...whoever wins faces Charlotte Flair or Shayna Baszler at the Rumble I can't wait


- WWE Intercontinental Championship picture is getting interesting with Woods, Sheamus, etc


- Nia Jax in her return she just destroys everyone including Mia Yim and K2...who is eliminating Nia from the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match? Nia has to be a favorite most definitely

- Mustafa Ali also entering the 2021 Men's Royal Rumble Match as well as other names like Tommaso Ciampa, Xavier Woods, Kofi and Mr Money in the Bank Big E...that's all 3 members of The New Day...that has to give them a huge advantage not to mention Big E still has that MITB briefcase as insurance too

- First Hurt Business member in the 2021 Men's Royal Rumble Match being the WWE Intercontinental Champion Swerve Strickland...I wonder if any other Hurt Business members enter the 2021 Men's Royal Rumble Match?

- Charlotte Flair is definitely just like her father Slick Ric...The Nature Boy...60 minutes well Ric knows all about 60 minutes WOOOOOOOOOOOO!!! And Charlotte challenges Shayna to a 1 Hour Iron Woman Match for the WWE Women's Universal Championship...that's huge


- I wonder if we could see NXT superstars enter the 2021 Men's & Women's Royal Rumble Matches?


Cannot wait to see Smackdown and the fallout from New Year's Revolution as Smackdown builds towards the Rumble on their side

 

[Roy Mustang]

Smackdown Live
January 8th 2021
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Wells Fargo Centre​

The first Smackdown Live after New Year’s Revolution starts with RONDA ROUSEY and MARINA SHAFIR standing in front of the camera with a pissed-off scowl on Ronda’s face. Ronda says that the only reason she lost the tag team titles is because her partner kneed her in the jaw. Marina looks awkward as Ronda tells the camera that Shayna should have been looking to see where Ronda was. If it wasn’t for her, they would still be the WWE Women’s tag team champions! Ronda turns to Marina who seems to not want anything to do with this ramp and says you saw what happened.

Marina offers a nod but keeps quiet as Ronda turns back to the camera. She says the MMA Horsewomen will get back on top and she will overcome the unfair ruling to get them the rematch they deserve. She turns her attention to Conti getting a WWE Women’s title match and not her saying the commissioners want to keep the MMA Horsewomen away from gold but they won’t be able to stop her getting a title shot when she wins the Royal Rumble! Ronda walks off and Marina quickly follows her before we get the opening video for the show!

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*TURN UP THE SKY*​

THE BOSS ‘N’ HUG CONNECTION makes their way out to the ring to start the show-off! The duo gets loud cheers from the live crowd and they make sure to soak in the reaction from the live crowd, lifting their newly won WWE Women’s tag team titles into the air. The commentary team of Corey Graves and Byron Saxton welcome us to the broadcast hyping up tonight’s show promising the fallout from New Year’s Revolution where we saw two title changes!

BAYLEY and SASHA BANKS climb into the ring, grabbing a microphone each as they look to the live crowd. They soak in the reaction from the live crowd before Bayley thanks the fans for their support these last few months. Sasha gets very cheesy and tells the live crowd that without them they would not have been able to become 4-time tag team champions each! This gets a huge cheap pop from the live crowd before the champions carry on.

Bayley says these belts mean the world to them as Sasha says they requested for these belts to be made because they wanted to prove they were the best tag team in the division. Bayley says they promise to be fighting champions and if the MMA Horsewomen want to try to take this division back, they are welcome to try it. Sasha tells the crowd that the outcome will be the same and says this ain’t the MMA Horsewomen’s company, it’s the Four Horsewomen’s company getting loud cheers from the crowd.

Bayley says they are not going to be happy settling for just tag team gold. Banks smirks saying we never have. Bayley tells the fans that they will be entering the Royal Rumble getting loud cheers from the live crowd. Sasha Banks says there is no one on the roster better than them and she turns to Bayley saying she will throw her ass out! A few ooohhhhhh’s from the crowd but Bayley smiles looking directly at Banks and says she’ll be throwing her out instead as the two friends stare each other down to end the promo.

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We return from the commercial break; KAYLA BRAXTON is standing ready for an interview and she is joined by her guest at this time KEVIN OWENS! Kayla puts over his win at New Year's Revolution, quickly defeating Karrion Kross. Owens smirks and says someone needs to shut him up. Kayla asks what’s next for him and Owens tells her that it is time for him to be Universal Champion again. He brings up his previous reign, commenting he never got a rematch for that title and knows he is good enough to be a 2-time World Champion.

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*THE FUTURE (V2)*​

ASUKA walks out onto the entrance ramp getting loud cheers from the crowd, coming off her successful title defense at New Year Revolution. Corey Graves and Byron Saxton comment on how well she defended her title against an unbeaten Bianca Belair. Asuka takes a seat on commentary as they ask what brings her out here and Asuka just responds with the word “scouting”.

*I’M A STAR*​

FRANKY MONET makes her way out getting some boos from the live crowd and she is joined by her tag team partner DANA BROOKE! Corey Graves reminds us of the fact Franky will be entering the Royal Rumble in 4 weeks. Byron Saxton asks Asuka how she feels about potentially facing Franky Monet at WrestleMania but Asuka says her focus is on the now as…

*SHAKE SHAKE*​

TAYNARA CONTI walks onto the entrance ramp! She gets a decent pop from the live crowd, joined by her tag team partner XIA LI! They slap hands with the fans on the way to the ring, with Conti fired up 4 weeks away from the biggest match of her career. Byron Saxton gives Conti credit for surviving Ember Moon and earning the title shot at the Rumble. Asuka comments that she doesn’t think Conti is ready. Corey presses for more but Asuka stays silent. Conti stands across the ring from Monet as the referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!

Match 1: Taynara Conti w/Xia Li vs Franky Monet w/Dana Brooke​

Match summary: Monet talks a bunch of trash but soon gets the taste slapped out her mouth stunning Monet. She stumbles back as Conti starts to pepper Franky with a series of kicks and takes control of the match. Dana Brooke outside the ring has to help Monet get back into the match, with Asuka shaking her head on commentary and seemingly looking down on Conti due to this. In the closing stages, Xia Li takes out Dana Brooke and removes her from the match leaving the two women alone. Conti grabs hold of Monet and locks in the TAYLOCK FORCING A TAP OUT FROM MONET!

Winner via submission: Taynara Conti (7:31)​

Conti drops Franky’s body to the mat and gets to her feet with a smile on her face having picked up the win tonight. Corey and Bryon ask Asuka for her thoughts on the match with Asuka saying nothing, leaving the commentary desk. Asuka walks to the ringside area getting the attention of Conti and starts to slow clap. Conti invites her in the ring but Asuka says you are not ready and walks off as we cut to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we see KEVIN PATRICK standing ready for an interview. He welcomes his guest at this time: ALPHA ACADEMY! The entire group is here: KURT ANGLE, DANIEL BRYAN, MATT RIDDLE, DANIEL GARCIA, and the new 2-time United States Champion CHAD GABLE! Gable has a big smile on his face and clutches his United States tightly whilst Bryan looks deep in thought and elsewhere. Kevin starts the interview by saying New Year Revolution was a good night for the Academy!

Kurt Angle says it was and he is proud of his students for how they performed looking at Garcia who remains cool whilst Gable grins with a big smile on his face. Chad says he was robbed of his United States title but was willing to go through whatever it took to get it back! Kurt says he has also been informed that Chad Gable will be entering the Royal Rumble. Kevin turns to Bryan next looking to ask him about his loss last week but Bryan shakes his head. He says he is going to address it in the ring and walks off to do just that!

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*FLIGHT OF THE VALKYRIES*​

DANIEL BRYAN makes his way out to the ring getting a huge pop from the live crowd. He doesn’t do the YES chants, selling him not being happy after losing last week. Corey Graves is full of praise for Buddy Murphy with him putting over Buddy as someone who needs to be taken seriously! Byron Saxton says Bryan losing is not what he will want on the Road to WrestleMania especially when looking to win the Royal Rumble for the first time. Daniel Bryan grabs a microphone from someone at ringside and climbs into the ring.

He takes a moment before addressing the fans and saying he has always appreciated the support they give to him each time he steps into the ring. He comments the only thing that drives him on to the same fashion is his family at home who make him a better person. He sighs before looking at the camera saying last week’s loss hurt him, unlike the way most losses do. He tells the fans that when you step into the ring no matter how good you are, sometimes you will lose.

Sometimes your opponent will be on their A-game, and sometimes your body will let you down when you don’t expect it. Bryan pauses for a moment before telling the fans he wonders if his body is telling him, it might be time for the end. The fans immediately start up a “NO” chant which makes Bryan smile as he tells the fans that he has been here before where he was forced into retirement. He tells the fans he has been doing a lot of thinking after losing to Buddy and just wants to say…

*OWN THE GAME*​

NOAM DAR AND KENNY WILLIAMS MAKE THEIR WAY OUT! They get boos from the crowd as Noam cuts Bryan off and mocks the former World Champion. He tells Bryan he should just do everyone a favor and call it quits right now. Nuclear heat for Noam Dar as Kenny Williams tells the crowd to be quiet, further pissing them off. Kenny says some people like him are made to survive anything but Bryan? His brittle body is ready to break at any moment!

The crowd and Bryan are getting fed with the trash talk from the Scottish Duo, who climbs into the ring. Noam Dar says there is no chance of Bryan winning the Royal Rumble because you are looking at the Royal Rumble winner! Kenny Williams chimes in promising that Noam Dar will be the winner of the Rumble, becoming the youngest winner of the Rumble ever! The boos get even louder as Bryan smirks prompting Dar to ask him what’s so funny?

Bryan says he wasn’t finished before they interrupted telling the fans he has no intention of going quietly into that good night getting a huge pop from the live crowd. The duo smirk but Bryan says he will be more than happy to show Dar next week what he is in for in the Rumble and kick his head in! Dar says they don’t feel like waiting and tries to cheap-shot Bryan… BUT HE AVOIDS IT AND BUSAIKU KNEE KNOCKS OUT KENNY WILLIAMS! He turns around and Noam Dar leaves the ring, fleeing to the back talking trash all the way as Smackdown goes to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we see ROMAN REIGNS sitting in his locker room backstage with JACOB FATU pacing around the room with NAOMI, JIMMY USO and TAMINA in front of him. He says at New Year Revolution he did what he needed to do, crushing Edge and showing the “legend” his place on Smackdown whilst he is in the Tribal Chief! He says now he has taken care of that business; it is time to turn his attention toward the Universal title!

He says he heard Kevin Owens talking about wanting the shot at the Universal title, saying he might have to destroy him again. Fatu offers to go do it right now but Roman shakes his head, giving him a different mission. He tells Jacob that he will be entering the Royal Rumble match and so will Naomi. He tasks both to do whatever it takes to win and bring gold to the Bloodline. He finishes the promo by telling Jimmy that he wants him to do the same the minute Jey is better! Jimmy nods promising that he will make Roman proud.

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*ONE PROBLEM*​

MARINA SHAFIR makes her way out getting loud boos from the crowd, with a scowl on her face. Byron Saxton says Ronda will have sent her out with the instructions to make Carmella pay for helping out the Boss ‘N’ Hug Connection the last couple of weeks on Smackdown. Corey Graves says Marina is a dangerous competitor in her own right as she waits in the ring for…

*FABULOUS*​

CARMELLA! The former Women’s Champion walks out getting decent cheers from the crowd. Byron Saxton says it was a rough 2019 for Carmella dealing with injuries but he has heard she will be in the Royal Rumble. Corey Graves of course is full of praise for Carmella and says she has what it takes to become a Women’s Champion once again, pointing out she is one of the few women to have defeated Asuka. Carmella stands across the ring from Marina as the referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!

Match 2: Carmella vs Marina Shafir

Match summary: Marina tries to target the limbs of Carmella and hurt her but the former Women’s Champion is ready for everything she throws at her. Carmella escapes from each of the submissions (with Marina noticeably not going for any pinfall attempts) and in the end, puts away Marina with the MELLA BUSTER!

Winner via pinfall: Carmella (3:37)​

Carmella gets to her feet with a smile on her face and celebrates the victory in the ring. The commentary team puts it over as a good performance by Carmella and will put her in good stead heading into the Royal Rumble as we cut to the backstage area to see…

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BIANCA BELAIR watching the match on a monitor backstage with a serious look on her face! KAYLA BRAXTON walks up to her looking for an interview as she asks Bianca how she is feeling after losing for the first time since joining Smackdown Live. Belair nods acknowledging the fact she lost but says she will still make it to the top because she has an UN-DE-FEAT-ED mindset! She gives Asuka credit for how good she is but wants her to hold that title tight because she is planning to beat her for it at WrestleMania 37!

Kayla asks if that is Belair confirming she is entering the Royal Rumble and she nods telling Kayla not only is entering the Royal Rumble but she will win the whole thing! She tells Kayla that she lost to Asuka because she tried to take a shortcut but paid the price and it allowed Asuka to take advantage. Kayla then asks Belair about the enemies she made on the Smackdown roster potentially coming for her during the Rumble. She smirks, welcoming it…

WHEN RONDA ROUSEY ATTACKS HER FROM BEHIND! Ronda clobbers her with a series of punches before snatching the microphone Kayla was holding and SMASHES BELAIR IN THE AIR WITH IT! She tosses it down and stands over Belair blaming her for the fact Ronda lost the WWE Women’s title saying she will destroy her and promises that Belair will learn her place before GRABBING HER AND LAUNCHING HER INTO THE SET! She looks to do more damage but suddenly a swarm of security appears forcing her to back off as we go to a commercial break!

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We return from the commercial break with a video confirming Bad Bunny will be appearing on Smackdown once again in 2 weeks!

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*EMERGENCE*​

THE O.C. walk out onto the entrance ramp getting loud boos from the crowd. FINN BALOR and AJ STYLES walk out first with scowls on their face. BUDDY MURPHY walks behind them, the only one with a smile on his face. BIG CASS, LUKE GALLOWS and KARL ANDERSON follow behind them on the way to the ring. The commentary team says New Year Revolution was a bad night for the O.C. with not only Balor losing his United States title but AJ missing out on becoming Universal Champion.

The whole group gets into the ring as Finn Balor snatches a microphone and tells the crowd that he is pissed off! This makes the crowd happy as Finn Balor paces around the ring and tells them if it was a normal match, he would still be the United States Champion. AJ noticeably behind him rolls his eyes but Finn Balor carries on his rant! He tells the crowd that he has been robbed of his United States title and should be given an automatic rematch right now! Loud boos from the crowd but before Finn can argue…

AJ STYLES TAKES THE MICROPHONE! He tells Finn that he knew the stipulation going into the match so he needs to stop his whining. Finn looks ready to explode but Luke Gallows steps in to stop him from hitting AJ. AJ carries on saying he is angry about losing at New Year Revolution but he is going to move on and get a rematch by winning the Royal Rumble. This gets a mixed reaction from the live crowd. He tells the fans that he was too focused on the leg last night but next time…

FINN BALOR SNATCHES THE MICROPHONE BACK! Karl steps forward to keep the piece as Finn says he is glad AJ mentioned the Rumble. He tells the fans that it won’t be AJ winning it, not it will be him getting boos from the crowd. AJ asks Finn when he was going to tell him that. Finn quips back the same time you were going to tell me. The co-leaders of the O.C. come face to face and nose to nose as BIG CASS pushes them apart and The Good Brothers grab one of them each!

Big Cass says for the good of the group, both of them need to head to the back and calm down! Finn and AJ stare at each other before Karl and Luke lead them to the back leaving Big Cass and Buddy Murphy in the ring alone. Big Cass tells the crowd that the O.C. knows they should run this brand hence the egos clashing but he blames Aleister Black for causing this. He tells Black that no one is holding AJ back and he will kick some sense into him later tonight.

Buddy asks for the microphone which Big Cass gives to him and tells Aleister that when Big Cass is done softening you up, he will be taking what should belong to him: the Universal title. He brings up his win over Daniel Bryan last week, shocking the world because everyone forgets how good he is. He tells Black he will be watching the match from the back and after the match, after Cass has knocked some sense into him, he wants to hear the correct answer for his next challenger, tossing down the microphone to end the promo!

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When we return from the commercial break, DOMINIK DIJAKOVIC and SHINSUKE NAKAMURA stand in front of the camera, and ZELINA VEGA laces up her boots in the background. Dijakovic tells the camera that they want to hear an answer. Nakamura asks if they are running scared because they are looking at a former Rumble winner. Dijakovic side-eyes Nakamura but says they want a rematch for the tag team titles next week. In the background, Zelina gets to her feet and tells her boys she needs to take care of business before we cut back to the ring!

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*GOLDEN GODDESS*​

MANDY ROSE makes her way out getting a decent pop from the live crowd. She slaps hands with a few of the fans at ringside before heading into the ring. Corey Graves glazes over Mandy and calls her a one of a kind special talent wasting her time with someone like Otis. Byron Saxton says Mandy clearly sees something in Otis and wants to lead their team to success.

*VEGA*​

ZELINA VEGA makes her way out with a scowl on her face and gets loud boos from the live crowd. Corey Graves calls this an unfair decision from HBK but Byron Saxton counters saying Zelina got psychically involved with Mandy and if she wants to do that, she can step into the ring. Zelina climbs inside, standing across the ring from Mandy Rose as the referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!

Match 3: Mandy Rose vs Zelina Vega​

Match summary: A very scrappy encounter between the two women with both women not being well-known for their ring work. Zelina gives a better fight than you would expect from someone who is mostly a manager but Mandy Rose puts her away with BED OF ROSES!

Winner via pinfall: Mandy Rose (3:48)​

Mandy gets to her feet with a smile, picking up the win here! Corey Graves goes wild clapping and applauding on commentary while Byron Saxton gives her credit for the performance tonight. Zelina Vega throws a tantrum outside the ring. However, back inside the ring, Mandy carries on the celebrations as we cut to the commercial break.

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When returning from the commercial break, MANDY ROSE is heading to the backstage area with a big smile on her face. She soon bumps into HEAVY MACHINERY as she gives OTIS DOZOVIC a big hug! TUCKER KNIGHT congratulates her on the victory tonight and says Otis has a surprise for her. Mandy looks confused as Otis said when he spoke to HBK about facing the Ungovernables next week for the tag team titles, he asked him to put Mandy Rose in the rumble. Mandy jumps up and down excitedly giving Otis a kiss before saying she needs to call Sonya. Mandy leaves the area as Tucker puts a hand on Otis’s shoulder saying he should tell her.

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We then cut to the backstage area as DEONNA PURRAZZO is walking through the back with her NXT Women’s title on show. She is stopped for an interview by KEVIN PATRICK. Kevin asks what she thinks of the competition she will be facing in the Royal Rumble. She has a smirk on her face and says she has been looking around but no one quite measures up to the Virtuoso. She looks at her NXT Women’s title and says this symbolizes excellence but she needs to take the WWE Women’s title so we can say the same about that.

At this point THE MEDUSA COMPLEX walks into the shot, staring down Deonna Purrazzo who looks unfazed. CHARLI EVANS asks who is she to run her mouth and Deonna looks at her with disgust telling Charli if she was listening, she already explained. MILLIE MCKENIZE says all they heard was a bunch of hot air with Deonna shaking her head and rolling her eyes. She tells the pair that she will be happy to show them some class and challenges Charli Evans to a match next week. The Aussie accepts, promising to put Deonna in her place before we cut back to the ring.

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We cut back to the ringside area and see BO-AXEL standing in the ring waiting to see who they are fighting tonight…

*BOOYAKA 619*​

THE MYSTERIOS make their way out getting loud cheers from the live crowd! REY MYSTERIO touches masks with some of the fans in the live crowd whilst DOMINIK MYSTERIO hangs back with a smile proud of his dad. Byron Saxton puts over them, overcoming the bigger Authors of Pain on the New Year Revolution pre-show and Corey Graves says he has heard online that the Mysterios want to get themselves in contention for the team team titles. Rey steps in to start for his team whilst Bo Dallas starts for Bo-axel as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 4: The Mysterios vs Bo-axel

Match summary: The Mysterios are in control of the entire match, minus a cut-off by Bo Dallas on Dominik Mysterio but the younger Mysterio starts to make a fight back and in the end, picks up the win for his team hitting a 619 INTO A BODY SPLASH OFF THE ROPES!

Winners via pinfall: The Mysterios (5:02)​

The Mysterios get to their feet and celebrate the victory with smiles on their faces. The commentary team puts over the performance and wonders if the Mysterios will face the winners of next week’s WWE tag team titles match as Smackdown Live goes to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we see EMBER MOON pacing around a room with a look of pure anger on her face. She turns to the camera and tells us she is sick of the disrespect shown to her. She says the referee could not keep her nose out of the match and wanted to make herself the story. Ember says it is not her fault that these cheap hussies can’t take the beating you get when you step into the ring with her. Ember then goes to her bag and PULLS OUT A WAD OF CASH!

She waves the wad of cash and says she may as well give it to Shawn right now to save time because she will knock out any referee who tries to get in her business and interfere in one of her matches. Ember tosses the money in the air and it goes everywhere as she carries on. She says Shawn has given her a spot in the Royal Rumble and says that is bad news for the 29 other hussies in the match! She wraps it up saying she will then defeat Asuka at WrestleMania 37 one more time!

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We then cut to EDGE sitting down in a stairwell backstage with an angry look on his face. He tells us that his ribs are still not 100% but that’s not down to Roman Reigns, no that’s down to his attack dog Jacob Fatu. He tells Roman he is not done with the Bloodline and says all Roman has done is divert his part from taking the Universal title. He declares himself for the Rumble, reminding us he is a former winner and it was the match he made his return to this business in. He also comments saying he plans on going for the Bloodline one by one till he gets back to Roman and challenges Jimmy Uso to a match next week on Smackdown!

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When we return from the commercial break, we get confirmation from the commentary team that Edge vs Jimmy Uso has been signed for next week’s Smackdown Live. They point out it is a first-time match and also comment on the Bloodline having a potentially dangerous enemy in Edge coming after them.

*A LONG WAY DOWN*​

BIG CASS marches out onto the entrance ramp getting boos from the crowd. The 7-foot-tall giant cuts an imposing figure as he marches to the ring ahead of the main event. Corey Graves says Big Cass has been impressive since making his return to Smackdown Live but he has his biggest opportunity of his career. Byron Saxton points out that a lot of people are gunning for a Universal title shot but if Big Cass wins tonight, he goes to the front of the line!

*ROOT OF ALL EVIL*​

ALEISTER BLACK walks out onto the entrance ramp getting loud cheers from the live crowd. He shows off his Universal title, still having a bandage around his waist and limps to the ring. Byron Saxton says AJ Styles relentlessly targeted the right leg of Black but he overcame it to retain the Universal title. Corey Graves says the damage done to him during the match might have set it up for Big Cass to defeat Aleister Black and bring gold to the O.C.! Aleister Black climbs into the ring as he stares down Big Cass. The referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!

Main event: Aleister Black vs Big Cass​

Match summary: Aleister Black’s right leg injury causes him a lot of problems early on in the match, as he can’t go for the kicks he normally would plus his pace has been cut off by the damage. Big Cass dominates the match in the early going and slams Black around the ring. He also locks him in a series of bearhugs and wears him down, with Black struggling to fight back. Black starts making attempts to target the legs of Big Cass but the tree-trunk-like legs of Cass manage to kick Black off and send him out of the ring!

Big Cass tosses Black around the ringside area and gives him a beating before bringing him back inside the ring. As the match heads to the closing stages, Big Cass looks to SLAM HIM DOWN WITH A CHOKESLAM… BLACK COUNTERS WITH A FALLING DDT! Black gets to his feet and CATCHES BIG CASS WITH BLACK MASS… BUT CAN’T OVER AS HIS FOOT HURTS TOO MUCH! Black wincing in pain though adjusts his game plan and LOCKS IN THE DRAGON SLAYER! He wrenches back on the hold until BIG CASS PASSES OUT!

Winner via submission: Aleister Black (10:08)​

Aleister Black drops Big Cass to the mat and rolls away, looking slightly relieved that he managed to pick up the victory tonight against a very tough challenger. Black grabs his Universal title and clutches it tightly before raising it into the air. The commentary team puts over the performance of Aleister Black and says he needed to throw everything at Big Cass to beat him. As the celebrations carry on, however…

*SHADOW OF DOUBT*​

BUDDY MURPHY WALKS OUT WITH A MICROPHONE IN HAND! Buddy says congratulations on the victory and applauds Black who looks wary in the ring. Buddy says he knows how good Black is and remembers stepping into the ring with him last year and losing. Black doesn’t react as Murphy says since then he has grown and the O.C. has helped make him better. Black doesn’t look impressed as Buddy Murphy issues a challenge to fight him for the Universal title at the Royal Rumble. However, before he can respond…

*FIGHT*​

KEVIN OWENS WALKS OUT WITH A MICROPHONE OF HIS OWN! He gets loud cheers from the live crowd and tells Buddy that he summed it up. He has already lost to Aleister Black so he can get behind him in line. Buddy disagrees with that as Owens reminds everyone he never got his rematch for the Universal title. Buddy chimes in asking how long ago that was but before they end up brawling with each other…

*HEAD OF THE TABLE*​

ROMAN REIGNS WALKS OUT WITH A MICROPHONE AS WELL! The crowd loudly boos Roman as he tells Buddy and Owens that he is the Tribal Chief. He says no one is getting in the way of his rightful place at the top of Smackdown. Owens says he is sick of Roman always cutting the line and Buddy agrees saying it is time someone like him got a chance.

Aleister Black in the ring has had enough of the bickering and tells them all to be quiet. He says the way he lost this title he needs to redeem so if all 3 of them want to fade to black at the Royal Rumble they have got! A huge pop from the live crowd as Corey Graves on commentary confirms HBK has made it official. At the Royal Rumble, the Universal title will be defended in a fatal 4-way match!

Confirmed matches for next week:

WWE Tag team titles match:
Heavy Machinery © vs The Ungovernables

Singles match:
Daniel Bryan vs Noam Dar

Singles match:
Edge vs Jimmy Uso

Singles match:
Deonna Purrazzo vs Charli Evans

Matchcard for Royal Rumble
January 31st 2021
St Louis, Missouri
The Dome at Americans Center

EVA UNDER FIRE – I WILL FIGHT

Men’s Royal Rumble match:
AJ Styles, Big E, Braun Strowman, Chad Gable, Daniel Bryan, Dominik Dijakovic, Drew McIntyre, Edge, Finn Balor, Jacob Fatu, James Storm, Keith Lee, Kofi Kingston, Mustafa Ali, Noam Dar, Shinsuke Nakamura, Swerve Strickland, Tommaso Ciampa, Xavier Woods and 11 entrants

Women’s Royal Rumble match:
Alexa Bliss, Bayley, Bianca Belair, Billie Kay, Carmella, Dani Luna, Deonna Purrazzo, Ember Moon, Franky Monet, Mandy Rose, Mickie James, Naomi, Natalya, Nia Jax, Peyton Royce, Rhea Ripley, Ronda Rousey, Sasha Banks, Tegan Nox and 11 other entrants

WWE title match:
Samoa Joe © vs Sami Zayn

Universal title fatal-4-way match:
Aleister Black © vs Buddy Murphy vs Kevin Owens vs Roman Reigns

Women’s Universal title match:
Charlotte Flair or Shayna Baszler © vs Dakota Kai or Ruby Riott

WWE Women’s title match:
Asuka © vs Taynara Conti

And

Bad Bunny will perform his new song: Booker T!

EWR Rating:
69%​

 

[Tg11]

Definite strife or turmoil within the OC...Styles & Balor at each other's throats and having to be separated by Gallows, Anderson, Murphy and Big Cass...but makes sense given Balor lost his WWE United States Championship to Chad Gable and AJ Styles lost his opportunity to become WWE Universal Champion by losing to Aleister Black

So now you have both Styles & Balor in the Royal Rumble Match? I wonder if Big Cass enters the Rumble too?

A Fatal 4 Way Match for the WWE Universal Championship with Aleister Black having to defend his Championship against 3 other guys...and them being The Tribal Chief Roman Reigns, The OC's Buddy Murphy and Kevin Owens...Black's title reign may be in serious jeopardy because he doesn't even have to be involved in the decision to lose his Championship


Edge is entering the Rumble..
Edge has to be a favorite considering he's won a Royal Rumble Match before in 2010 in this diary so can he join that exclusive club of guys who have won more than 1 Royal Rumble Match?

Jacob Fatu with him being in the Royal Rumble Match for The Bloodline...the most dangerous guy to be in there...if anyone can set a record for most eliminations it's Jacob

Naomi entering the Women's Royal Rumble Match for The Bloodline...I wonder if Tamina also enters for The Bloodline?


Ronda Rousey also entering the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match...Ronda has to be a favorite in that match and if she has her Horsewomen in that match they will work together to eliminate everyone until it's down to them and may be the best woman win. Because if Natalya is already there then what's to stop Duke & Shafir from entering too to ensure Ronda wins?


Bianca Belair entering the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match also...Bianca is my pick to win it all


Ember Moon paying off her fine only for her to be named as an entrant in the Royal Rumble Match...another potential favorite


Carmella is also in now and you have the Women's Tag Team Champions Sasha Banks & Bayley both in...will it really be every woman for herself?

 

[Roy Mustang]

News update:

Ashton Smith is out of action

Ashton Smith, who was at a recent taping for NXT UK, picked up a serious injury and looks to be out of action for a decent portion of time. His return date is unknown at this time.

Mod note: This probs not gonna matter at all but I figured I’d mention the EWR rehab

Kona Reeves suspended for 1 month

Kona Reeves has been suspended for 1 month due to an incident backstage.

Mod note: This probs is also not gonna matter at all but I figured I’d mention the EWR suspension

Main event:

The Miz defeated Jinder Mahal (7:03)
MMA Horsewomen (Natalya and Jessamyn Duke) defeated Twisted Sisters (6:09)
Braun Strowman defeated Apollo Crews (4:02)
Ricochet defeated Mark Andrews (11:26)
Main event: Karrion Kross defeated Gran Metalik (9:58)

NXT UK Takeover: Blackpool III
Blackpool. England
January 10th:

NXT UK title match: WALTER © vs Alexander Wolfe
NXT UK tag team titles match: Undisputed Era © vs Pretty Deadly
Heritage Cup title match: David Hart Smith © vs Charles Crowley
NXT UK Women’s title match: Kay Lee Rae © vs Alexis Falcon
Meiko Satomura vs Killer Kelly
Dan Moloney vs Jordan Devlin
Rampage Brown and The Bulldogs vs Gallus​

 

[Tg11]

Love that Gunther is already making a name for himself in NXT UK as well as Natalya's cousin David Hart Smith, The British Bulldog's son

 

[Roy Mustang]

Monday Night Raw
January 11th 2021
Columbus, Ohio
Schottenstein Centre

HOUSE OF MEMORIES – PANIC AT THE DISCO

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We get our usual pan around the arena before cutting to the commentary team of Michael Cole and Elias who welcome us to Monday Night Raw! They hype up the card for tonight including the main event 1-hour Ironwoman between Charlotte Flair and Shayna Baszler for the Women’s Universal title. They confirm that we will be finding out who will fight the winner of that match at Royal Rumble right now!

*WE RIOT*​

RUBY RIOTT makes her way out first getting boos from the live crowd and she is joined by her tag team partner SHOTZI BLACKHEART! Both walk to the ring with Shotzi behind Ruby firing her up for this match. Michael Cole says Ruby Riott has told him that her New Year’s resolution is to win her first gold in WWE. Elias says she will have a tough time getting past a former NXT and tag team champion in…

*OFF WITH HER HEAD*​

DAKOTA KAI! She walks out to the ring with a smile and looks fired-up joined by her close friend TEGAN NOX! Both women slap hands with fans in the crowd before Dakota slides into the ring across from Ruby Riott. Elias brings up the tension we saw last week between Charlotte and Team Kick but Michael comments that it could be competitive spirit on the part of Charlotte. The referee once both women are in their corners calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 1: Number one contender’s match for the Royal Rumble: Dakota Kai w/Tegan Nox vs Ruby Riott w/Shotzi Blackheart​

Match summary: Dakota Kai and Ruby Riott are both fired up in this match, both knowing how big an opportunity it is for both of them. Ruby Riott looks to slow Dakota Kai down and targets her legs, Kai is used to this due to her experience with kicks and using them. Shotzi Blackheart makes her presence felt a couple of times but Tegan Nox soon takes care of her. In the closing stages of the match see Ruby going for the RIOT KICK… BUT KAI COUNTERS AND HITS THE GO TO KICK! Kai makes the cover and picks up the win!

Winner via pinfall: Dakota Kai (9:04)​

Dakota Kai gets to her feet and is soon joined in the ring by her best friend Tegan Nox with the duo sharing a hug in the middle of the ring. Michael Cole says Dakota Kai showed a lot of heart in the match and proved why she belongs in the Women’s Universal title scene. Elias says he knows both Charlotte and Shayna will be watching backstage closely… AND WE CUT TO A SPLIT SCREEN SHOWING BOTH WOMEN WATCHING THE MATCH ON THE MONITOR! The commentary once again confirms they will take each other in the main event in an Ironwoman match over the Women’s Universal title as we cut to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we see CATHY KELLEY standing backstage ready for an interview and she is joined by DOLPH ZIGGLER and his bodyguard OMOS! Cathy asks how he is feeling after the I Quit match but Ziggler says he refuses to talk about the past. He says he quit because Mustafa Ali is a psychopath and he owes it to the fans to make sure he can perform for them week in and week out. The crowd obviously doesn’t buy this and loudly boo Ziggler.

Cathy rolls her eyes before asking Ziggler what his future holds. Ziggler tells Cathy he is glad she asked because he took this interview to announce he will be entering the Royal Rumble! Ziggler says he has been in the WWE for years and it is about time he got his hands on the WWE title. This brings KOFI KINGSTON into the shot as he arrives at the arena. Kofi quips about their rivalry back in the day and says Ziggler hasn’t changed. Ziggler takes offense to this, challenging Kofi to a match next which he accepts and leaves saying hi to Cathy as he goes.

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*UPPERCUT OVERTURE (1812)*​

CESARO marches out onto the entrance ramp getting cheers from the live crowd, joined by his friend ILJA DRAGUNOV! Both men are in well-dressed suits as they walk to the ring with Michael Cole confirming they are looking to get their hands on the Ungovernables especially after Andrade took the night off Raw. Elias says he knows the Ungovernables are in the building tonight so Andrade won’t have any excuses when it comes to avoiding the Swiss Superman.

Cesaro once inside the ring tells the fans he has come out here for two reasons. First of all, he wanted to confirm to the WWE Universe that he will be entering the Royal Rumble getting loud cheers from the live crowd. He talks about some of the men in a match already: Daniel Bryan, Drew McIntyre, Edge, Keith Lee, AJ Styles, Big E. He says the match is filled with top stars and giants but he has never had a problem tossing giants of the ring as Michael Cole brings up his Andre the Giant battle royal victory years ago.

He says that is not the only reason he is out in this ring right now and says he wants to fight Andrade Cien Almas right now! Loud cheers from the live crowd who want to see these two men collide. Ilja Dragunov speaks up saying they do not run away from fights like Zelina’s clients and dares them to come to this ring right now! The crowd is loudly behind them as they wait in the ring until…

*COAT OF ARMS*​

THE UNGOVERNABLES walk onto the entrance ramp getting loud boos from the crowd! ANDRADE CIEN ALMAS and ZELINA VEGA lead the way with ANGEL GARZA and HUMBERTO CARRILLO following behind them. They tease going to the ring but stop halfway up the entrance ramp. Zelina says she is a fair woman so won’t have her clients take part in a 3 on 2 beatdown getting loud boos from the crowd. Ilja and Cesaro roll their eyes as Andrade takes the microphone.

Andrade tells them he didn’t come out here to fight them because both of them are beneath him! Boos from the crowd as Ilja dares him to enter the ring but Andrade wags a finger refusing. Andrade says he came out here to confirm he is entering the Royal Rumble! He promises that he will win the match and become a World Champion once again. Cesaro and Ilja clearly do not buy into that as Angel takes the microphone from Zelina and demands the pair show some respect.

Angel Garza says Andrade is a former Universal and NXT Champion so he should be shown the respect he deserves! Cesaro says he will show respect to Andrade when he acts worthy of respect getting a huge pop from the live crowd. He then tells Zelina he is sick of talk and demands a match with one of her clients next week. Zelina with an evil smirk on her face says if that is what Cesaro wants putting forward Humberto Carrillo to fight him next week before Raw cuts to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we see a cocky MICKIE JAMES and ALEXA BLISS walking through the backstage area. Mickie and Alexa talk to each other with each one saying that they will win the Royal Rumble. Before it can turn into an argument between the tag team partners, they come face to face with DANI LUNA! The Brit is not in a good mood as calls out the cheating from the pair last week costing her the match.

Mickie laughs and says the referee didn’t catch them so it doesn’t matter. Dani says they can talk all they want but she will throw both their asses out in the rumble. Alexa smirks and says she can try but how about she fights both of them next week if she can find anyone to team with her. Mickie and Alexa laugh as RHEA RIPLEY appears backing up Dani Luna fisting and bumping her. Dani retorts she has someone in mind as Bliss and James retreat full of fury!

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*WHATEVER IT TAKES*​

AMALE makes her way out getting boos from the live crowd as she looks at them with disdain. Michael Cole confirms partners are banned from ringside for the matches tonight between Piper Niven, Melina and The House of Couture. Elias says Amale has proven herself fighting all over Europe but she faces a tough challenge taking on…

*THE CULLING*​

PIPER NIVEN! She gets a decent pop from the live crowd as she walks to the ring with purpose. Michael Cole says Piper came this close to becoming Women’s Universal Champion in Scotland. An impressive performance tonight would get her a spot in the Rumble. Elias says Amale will have to be crafty to overcome Piper Niven. Piper Niven stands towering over Amale as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 2: Piper Niven vs Amale​

Match summary: Piper Niven tosses Amale around the ring easily and crushes her in this match. She tries to use her cunning to take down Piper but, in the end, Piper puts her away with the SCOT DROP!

Winner via pinfall: Piper Niven (2:41)​

Piper Niven gets to her feet and celebrates the relatively easy victory over the French superstar on tonight’s Raw. Michael Cole and Elias, both agree it was an impressive victory that should earn her a spot in the rumble as we cut to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, THE ONE TWOS are standing backstage pacing up and down. ONEY LOCRAN stews in the background as DANNY BURCH points at the camera, saying Angelo Dawkins got lucky last week. He tells the fans that anyone can get lucky once but he won’t twice and tells Dawkins he wants him in the ring next week to knock his block off!

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*GO HARD*​

MUSTAFA ALI makes his way out when we return to the ring, getting a good pop from the live crowd. He gets the crowd fired up before sprinting down the entrance ramp and climbing into the ring. Michael Cole says Mustafa Ali was one man away from winning the battle royal a couple of weeks ago and wonders if he can cause an upset in the Royal Rumble match. Elias says he is a 2-time Cruiserweight Champion and managed to make a former 2-time World Champion in Dolph Ziggler say I Quit!

*NO ONE WILL SURVIVE*​

TOMMASO CIAMPA marches onto the entrance ramp with a purpose getting loud boos from the live crowd. He scowls at Mustafa Ali in the ring and makes several threats to hurt him. Michael Cole says Ciampa is still bitter after Zayn and Ali teamed up to remove him from the battle royal a couple of weeks ago. Elias says we have seen the damage Ciampa can do in the ring and he is not someone you want to get on the wrong side of! Ciampa steps into the ring with Ali as the referee calls for the bell to get the match underway!

Match 3: Mustafa Ali vs Tommaso Ciampa​

Match summary: Ali tries to outpace Ciampa in the early stages but Ciampa can keep up with the former Cruiserweight Champion, overpowering him and tossing him around the ring. Ciampa makes it his mission throughout the match to inflict as much damage as possible to Ali with him struggling to make a comeback during the match. Ali’s heart is on full show and he refuses to give in to Ciampa, further pissing off the former NXT Champion.

As we get to the closing stages, Ali does everything he can to bring Ciampa down and cut him off including a 450 SPLASH TO HIS ARM ON THE RING APRON! Ciampa’s arm is in great pain making it harder to pick him up and ALI PULLS OFF THE SPANISH FLY! Ciampa kicks out and takes control of the match, smashing him with a wicked KNEE STRIKE! He then grabs hold of Mustafa Ali and hits the FAIRYTALE ENDING! Ciampa makes the cover and picks up the win!

Winner via pinfall: Tommaso Ciampa (10:39)​

Boos from the live crowd but it is another impressive win for Tommaso Ciampa who has been imposing himself as a threat on Monday Night Raw since joining from NXT in the summer. Michael Cole and Elias put him over as a dark horse in the rumble as Ciampa looks at Ali… AND ATTACKS HIM AFTER THE BELL! He smashes him in the head with a running knee before laying in a series of shots. The crowd boos Ciampa as he looks to bring Ali towards the ring apron until…

*FEEL THE POWER*​

BIG E RUNS OUT WITH THE MONEY IN THE BANK BRIEFCASE IN HAND! He runs into the ring and swings for Ciampa… BUT HE GETS OUT OF DODGE AND RETREATS TO THE BACK! The crowd cheers loudly as Big E dares Ciampa to come back to the ring but he shakes his head, retreating to the back whilst Big E checks on Ali and Raw goes to a commercial break.

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*IT’S TIME*​

We return from the commercial break at the top of the hour and it is time for THE HURT BUSINESS to make their way out! The whole unit was in crisp suits: MVP, SAMOA JOE, SWERVE STRICKLAND, LIO RUSH, CEDRIC ALEXANDER, SHELTON BENJAMIN and EJ NDUKA! All of their titles are on show as well, cutting an imposing presence as they dominate Monday Night Raw! Michael Cole and Elias say they have taken over the Men’s division but have made a lot of enemies as of late.

MVP has a microphone in hand, as he tells the live crowd that business is truly booming drawing loud boos from the live crowd. MVP doesn’t seem to mind it and tells the fans that’s how the entire roster feels when having to deal with his clients. MVP walks around the ring and says he wants to start off with a little announcement. He says he feels all of his clients deserve a spot in the rumble but Wade wanted to give the others a chance so Lio Rush will be joining Swerve Strickland in the Royal Rumble!

Boos from the crowd as Lio takes the match and in typical cocky Lio fashion, he talks about potentially being a double champion. He gets a glare from Joe and quickly clarifies he would go after the Universal title, not the WWE one. Joe just rolls his eyes, not bothered by the potential threat as Swerve takes the microphone and tells the champ he would do the same. Joe snarls not trusting Swerve for a second as the Intercontinental Champion looks to speak a bit more.

He tells the fans that he is a wanted man but that doesn’t mean he is done hunting himself. Joe noticeably keeps his eye on Swerve and watches every word he is saying here. Swerve tells the fans that he has already made the Intercontinental title the most important it’s ever been so he will do the same (looking at Joe) to the Universal title when he wins the Royal Rumble. Boos from the crowd as Joe asks for the microphone which Swerve gives him but before he can speak…

*WRITTEN IN MY FACE*​

SHEAMUS WALKS OUT! He gets loud cheers from the live crowd as Sheamus points at Swerve in the ring and calls him a coward. Swerve just chuckles in response but Sheamus says he is finding anything to keep him busy because of how much winning that Intercontinental title would mean to him! Joe chimes in telling Sheamus that no one in the Hurt Business is a coward and challenges him to step in the ring again with him to find out as…

*WORLDS APART*​

SAMI ZAYN NOW WALKS OUT! He has a microphone in hand and says Joe needs to stop looking to fight anyone else but him! Joe scowls at Sami outside the ring as Sami carries on and tells Samoa Joe that he better not be looking past him. Joe tells Sami Zayn he is not looking past him and says he sees Sami like anyone else in his path, someone to destroy. Joe points at Sheamus who fires back at Joe, saying he only won because of Swerve last week. Swerve chuckles before we hear…

*PLAY MY ASS OFF*​

XAVIER WOODS MAKES HIS WAY OUT! He has a microphone as well and gets a decent pop from the live crowd as he asks Swerve what he is laughing at. Swerve does stop smiling and frowns as Xavier brings up tossing him out of the battle royal last week! Woods says he had to listen to MVP telling him he wasn’t good enough but he was good enough to toss his client out of that ring. Lio Rush steps forward to tell Woods MVP is right and he should know his place as…

*INAUGURAL*​

TYLER BATE WALKS OUT AS WELL! He takes a moment to wave to the crowd in his signature fashion before turning his attention to Lio Rush in the ring. He points out he tossed Lio Rush out of the ring last week with Rush getting ultra defensive and shouting it doesn’t matter, it doesn’t matter. Bate says he thinks it does, wanting a shot at the Cruiserweight title. MVP steps forward and is ready to speak but then…

*BREEZANGO*​

BREEZANGO WALKS OUT WITH SELFIE STICKS IN HAND! He keeps posing and stands at the top of the entrance ramp. MVP looks furious as he asks if they have come out here to ask for a title shot. Breezango turns towards the ring as TYLER BREEZE asks and takes a microphone to tell MVP they didn’t. FANDANGO borrows the microphone and says they came down here for a fight DROPPING THE MICROPHONE AND WALKING TO THE RING!

Sheamus looks to Sami Zayn, Xavier Woods and Tyler Bate who all shrug, joining Breezango on the way to the ring. The 6 men step inside the ring and we get a mass brawl between the ropes as The Hurt Business tries to destroy their enemies in the middle of the ring. Both groups are evenly matched as the crowd loudly cheers for the brawl to carry on but it soon stops as…

*GOD SAVE THE QUEEN/END OF DAYS*​

WADE BARRETT walks out! He tells the 12 men in the ring to stop fighting right now, bringing the brawl to an end. He tells all of the men in the ring that if they want to fight on next week’s Raw in the main event it will be The Hurt Business vs Sami Zayn, Sheamus, Xavier Woods, Tyler Bate and Breezango! The crowd pops huge for that as the two groups stare each other down and Raw goes to a commercial break.

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We return from the commercial break to see K2 hanging out backstage as KATANA CHANCE has a big smile on her face. She tells KAYDEN CARTER that Wade Barrett has given her a spot in the Royal Rumble after she pinned Mia Yim last week. Kayden then confirms she will be fighting Nia Jax next week on Raw and if she wins, she will get a spot in the Royal Rumble. They both joke about the bigger you are, the harder you fall before we cut to the ring…

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*NUMBER ONE*​

MIA YIM walks out with an angry scowl on her face. The crowd boos Mia Yim who talks some trash back to the live crowd. Michael Cole says Mia Yim demanded this match looking to get revenge on Nia Jax for her attack last week. Elias says she will be in for a tough time as she takes on arguably one of the favorites to win the Royal Rumble!

*FORCE OF GREATNESS*​

NIA JAX marches out with a purpose! She gets loud boos from the live crowd as she looks at the trash-talking Mia Yim ready to crush her. Michael Cole says Nia is a force that could be very difficult to remove from the match and wonders who can eliminate her. Elias says Nia Jax came close to winning in 2019 coming 3rd in the match and wonders if she can go all the way this year! Nia Jax and Mia Yim stand across from each other as the referee calls for the bell!

Match 4: Nia Jax vs Mia Yim​

Match summary: Mia Yim charges at Nia Jax in this heel vs heel match but gets swatted away like a fly. Nia grabs Mia and tosses her around the ring with ease, taking total control of the match before finishing off Mia Yim with a FIREMAN’S CARRY DROPPED INTO A FALLING POWERSLAM!

Winner via pinfall: Nia Jax (3:54)​

Nia Jax gets to her feet with a wicked smile on her face having crushed Mia Yim on Raw tonight. The commentary team emphasizes how powerful she is and how easily she won, with Nia demanding a microphone. She keeps it short and sweet, warning Kayden Carter she is next to be destroyed before she goes to the Royal Rumble and wins the entire thing, tossing the microphone down before hitting a JUMPING SENTON TO MIA YIM for good measure as Raw goes to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, TOM PHILLIPS walks up to JAMES STORM who is drinking at a bar and looks to be in a foul mood. He asks James how he is feeling after his loss last week and Storm glares at him. He tells Tom that Keith Lee caught him off-guard but he will now take that out on everyone in the Rumble promising to win. Tom asks for his game plan but James Storm just responds by POURING BEER on his head and walking off!

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We next cut to ANGELO DAWKINS who is hanging out backstage with a red cup in hand drinking from it. He says he heard Danny Burch’s challenge earlier tonight and he is not a man to turn down a fight. He is a bit fired up pointing out how throughout the years he heard he was a weak link compared to Montez Ford but he proved there is no weak link in the Street Profits last week! He says he will carry on proving it next week when he steps into the ring with Danny Burch!

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*TRAP OR TREAT*​

JINNY makes her way out to the ring getting boos from the live crowd, looking at the fans with disgust and almost shooing them away on the way to the ring. Michael Cole says Jinny is as good as she is snotty and Elias says he doesn’t think he has seen a superstar who looked down on the WWE Universe more than Jinny does!

*PAPARAZZI*​

MELINA has the red carpet rolled out for her to the delight of the live crowd. She poses for the paparazzi at the top of the entrance ramp with Jinny scowling in the ring. Michael Cole says Melina made her return in last year’s Royal Rumble and will be looking to prove she is worthy of a spot once again. Elias says he sees a lot of similarities between these two women as Melina stands across from Jinny and the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 5: Melina vs Jinny​

Match summary: Melina and Jinny have a very scrappy match with both women being aggressive throughout the match to one another pulling the hair. Jinny takes the cheating to another level, getting warned by the referee throughout for pulling the hair several times and eye rakes. In the end, Jinny steals the win with a roll-up PUTTING HER FEET ON THE ROPES TO STEAL THE WIN!

Winner via pinfall: Jinny (5:34)​

Jinny gets to her feet and smirks looking smug, as she celebrates in the ring. Melina argues with the referee but he makes it clear the decision is final. The commentary team points out Jinny may look down on the WWE Universe but one thing she won’t look down on is doing anything to win as the Fashionista celebrates as she heads up the ramp and Raw goes to a commercial break.

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*BROKEN DREAMS*​

DREW MCINTYRE marches onto the entrance ramp getting loud cheers from the live crowd. He slowly walks to the ring with purpose as Michael Cole tells us he is last year’s Royal Rumble winner and has to be one of the favorites to win it again. Elias says only three superstars have won back-to-back Rumbles: Hulk Hogan (90 and 91), Stone Cole (97 and 98) and Becky Lynch (19 and 20). Drew grabs a microphone and stands in the middle of the ring looking at the live crowd.

Drew talks to the crowd saying last year felt like a culmination of his hard work. He says everything he worked for paid off when he outlasted 29 other men and won the Royal Rumble! He says quite a few superstars have won the Royal Rumble but not many have won it twice, let alone back-to-back. He says he knows how hard it is hence why he gave a friend of his, a call for some advice: Becky Lynch getting a huge pop from the live crowd as Drew smiles.

She says Becky is doing well and so is her daughter Roux getting another pop from the live crowd. Becky said that Drew just needs to be like her: kick everyone’s ass that gets in your way. Once again, the crowd loudly pops as Drew says she also promised to be back in a few months. The crowd starts up a “Becky” chant to the delight of Drew who says her advice means a lot to him before saying he knows how good everyone in that Rumble match is but there is no one…

*LIMITLESS*​

KEITH LEE MAKES HIS WAY OUT! He gets a loud pop from the live crowd as he takes his time upon walking onto the entrance ramp and he hoists the NXT title into the air. He places it back onto his shoulder before slowly walking to the ring, with Drew McIntyre keeping an eye on him every step of the way. Keith Lee steps through the ropes and comes face to face with Drew McIntyre as both men share a smile before Keith finally speaks.

Keith Lee gives Drew McIntyre credit calling him a WrestleMania main eventer, a former Royal Rumble winner and a former WWE, Intercontinental, NXT and tag team champion. Keith pauses letting the fans cheer for Drew McIntyre before carrying on saying Drew is an impressive superstar but… KEITH LIFTS UP HIS NXT TITLE! He tells Drew he is no longer a champion whilst Keith is still the NXT Champion. He tells the fans that means he is the future, holding this title means he is the future of WWE!

Keith says he has never been one to wait for his time, making a career of breaking limits and making it to the top. He says he wants to be the first man to win the Royal Rumble whilst NXT Champion. Loud cheers from the crowd as Drew nods and says holding that title is a sign you have the potential to be a future WWE Champion. He says he knows Keith Lee will be a WWE Champion in the future… but we are not in the future, we live in the present.

Keith smiles as Drew carries on saying he has no intention of letting him pass him by and takes his chance at facing Samoa Joe at WrestleMania. Keith chuckles and tells Drew he isn’t the only one who wants a rematch with Samoa Joe. He brings up the King of the Ring and wants to fix his loss. Drew smiles before saying he will have to wait till another time. Keith smirks but offers Drew McIntyre a handshake. Drew looks at it for a moment before shaking his hand as the two men stare each other down.

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We then cut backstage as CATHY KELLEY approaches NATALYA and JESSAMYN DUKE looking for an interview! She sees the pair in their ring gear and asks if they are heading to the ringside. The pair confirm they are going to the ring to support Shayna… TEAM KICK BOOTS THEM IN THE FACE! DAKOTA KAI and TEGAN NOX lay into the pair, taking care of them as we cut back to the commentary team at ringside who confirms the main event for the evening will be up next!

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*LOYALTY IS EVERYTHING*​

SHAYNA BASZLER walks out onto the entrance ramp with a scowl. She slowly heads to the ring and shakes her head, looking back, expecting to see Natalya and Jessamyn Duke backing her up. But thanks to Team Kick, they won’t be at ringside for this match. Michael Cole confirms that during the ad breaks, it will be picture-in-picture so we don’t miss any of the action. Elias says the match tonight will likely be a definitive answer on who is the better woman.

*ALL HAIL THE QUEEN*​

CHARLOTTE FLAIR marches out onto the entrance ramp getting loud cheers from the crowd, holding the Women’s Universal title in the air. She carries on walking to the ring with a smug look on her face. Michael Cole brings up the history of Ric Flair defending the title in hour-long matches regularly and would have passed on his wisdom to Charlotte. Elias says both women love to target the limbs of their opponent and wear them down. The usual title announcements take place before the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Main event: Ironwoman Women’s Universal title match: Charlotte Flair © vs Shayna Baszler​

Match summary: The match starts off at a slow pace with both women taking their time to feel each other, neither wanting to take that first fall and putting themselves at a disadvantage. The two women are grappling with each other and are fairly evenly matched as we start to approach the 10-minute mark but Charlotte Flair manages to ROLL UP SHAYNA BASZLER TO TAKE THE 1-0 LEAD GOING INTO THE FIRST PICTURE IN PICTURE AD BREAK!

Winner of the 1st fall via pinfall: Charlotte Flair (9:40)
Charlotte Flair 1 Shayna Baszler 0​

The match carries on during picture in picture and during that ad break, Shayna Baszler starts to take control of the match, doing serious damage to the left arm of Charlotte! She works over him and as we come back from the commercial break, Charlotte gets her left arm bent on the mat and STOMPED ON BY SHAYNA BASZLER! Charlotte screams in pain and struggles to fight back against the relentless assault of Shayna Baszler here who has taken total control of the match!

Charlotte Flair is trying to lay into Shayna with chops using her right arm but SHAYNA COUNTERS WITH AN ARM DRAG! Shayna then grabs hold of the neck of Charlotte Flair and LOCKS IN THE KIRIFUDA CLUTCH! She has the hold locked in tight and Charlotte tries to fight out of the hold… BUT CHARLOTTE CAN’T ESCAPE AND IS FORCED TO TAP OUT!

Winner of the 2nd fall via submission: Shayna Baszler (22:08)
Charlotte Flair 1 Shayna Baszler 1​

Shayna Baszler smirks, having to give Charlotte a 15-second break before going back onto the attack as we go into picture-in-picture once again! Halfway through being in picture in picture Shayna Baszler picks up Charlotte Flair and HITS A GUTWRENCH POWERBOMB! Shayna makes the cover and takes the lead!

Winner of the 3rd fall via pinfall: Shayna Baszler (26:08)
Charlotte Flair 1 Shayna Baszler 2​

Shayna smirks and stays in control as picture in picture ends, working over her on the mat. Charlotte is trying to fight back but Shayna is relentless, working her over and putting her in a great deal of danger. Charlotte even tries to get the FIGURE EIGHT LEG LOCK BUT HER LEFT ARM BUCKLES CAUSING HER TO COLLAPSE! Shayna pounces on it as she grabs the left arm locking in AN ARMBAR AND FORCES CHARLOTTE TO TAP OUT!

Winner of the 4th fall via submission: Shayna Baszler (33:46)
Charlotte Flair 1 Shayna Baszler 3​

Shayna has an evil smirk on her face and starts to chuckle as Charlotte Flair struggles on the mat, clutching her arm as the commentary mentions we are going into the final picture in picture. Shayna during picture in picture takes control of the match and when we come back Shayna is wearing down Charlotte as is acting cocky, mocking Charlotte… AS THE QUEEN ROLLS HER UP!

Winner of the 5th fall via pinfall: Charlotte Flair (39:59)
Charlotte Flair 2 Shayna Baszler 3​

Charlotte Flair breathes a sigh of relief now knowing she is only behind by one fall. Shayna looks furious and goes on the attack in an aggressive fashion trying to get another fall but she can’t put Charlotte away. Shayna looks at the clock and realizes the time, trying to stall and run down the clock. Charlotte gets annoyed as we enter the final 10 minutes of the match with Shayna still in control and trying to avoid anything Charlotte does to make things even!

Charlotte manages to catch Shayna out with the QUEEN’S BOOT but Shayna kicks out! Charlotte runs the ropes before hitting Shayna with NATURAL SELECTION but again Shayna manages to kick out! Charlotte looks to the crowd and is willed on as Charlotte climbs to the top rope lining up Shayna Baszler… TOP ROPE MOONSAULT! Charlotte makes the cover 1 2 3! IT’S ALL EVEN!

Winner of the 6th fall via pinfall: Charlotte Flair (54:36)
Charlotte Flair 3 Shayna Baszler 3​

The crowd is excited now knowing both women need to go all out in the final minutes of this match to win! Shayna stops the stalling and tries to win, desperately trying to go for the KIRIFUDA CLUTCH or an ARMBAR… BUT CHARLOTTE GETS HER DOWN TO THE MAT AND LOCKS IN THE FIGURE EIGHT WITH A MINUTE AND A HALF LEFT! Charlotte wrenches on the hold using everything she has as Shayna tries to hold on… BUT TAPS WITH 5 SECONDS TO GO!

Winner of the 7th fall via submission: Charlotte Flair (59:55)
Charlotte Flair 4 Shayna Baszler 3​

Charlotte rolls away from Shayna and smiles knowing as the last 5 seconds tick down she has retained her Women’s Universal title!

Winner 4 falls to 3 and still Women’s Universal Champion: Charlotte Flair (1:00:00)​

The crowd cheers loudly as Charlotte Flair retains her Women’s Universal title and lifts it into the air with her right arm. Shayna sulks in the corner of the ring as Michael Cole tells the fans that Charlotte has definitively shown she is the better woman tonight. Elias says now Charlotte Flair will defend her title against Dakota Kai at the Royal Rumble. The celebrations carry on in the ring as Raw fades to black!

Confirmed matches for next week:

Main event: 12-man tag team match:
The Hurt Business (Samoa Joe, Swerve Strickland, Lio Rush, Cedric Alexander, Shelton Benjamin and EJ Nduka) vs Sami Zayn, Sheamus, Xavier Woods, Tyler Bate and Breezango

Singles match:
Kofi Kingston vs Dolph Ziggler

Singles match:
Cesaro vs Humberto Carrillo

Singles match:
Nia Jax vs Kayden Carter

Singles match:
Angelo Dawkins vs Danny Burch

Tag team match:
Rhea Ripley and Dani Luna vs Alexa Bliss and Mickie James

Matchcard for Royal Rumble
January 31st 2021
St Louis, Missouri
The Dome at Americans Center

EVA UNDER FIRE – I WILL FIGHT

Men’s Royal Rumble match:
Andrade Cien Almas, AJ Styles, Big E, Braun Strowman, Cesaro, Chad Gable, Daniel Bryan, Dolph Ziggler, Dominik Dijakovic, Drew McIntyre, Edge, Finn Balor, Jacob Fatu, James Storm, Keith Lee, Kofi Kingston, Lio Rush, Mustafa Ali, Noam Dar, Shinsuke Nakamura, Swerve Strickland, Tommaso Ciampa, Xavier Woods and 7 other entrants

Women’s Royal Rumble match:
Alexa Bliss, Bayley, Bianca Belair, Billie Kay, Carmella, Dani Luna, Deonna Purrazzo, Ember Moon, Franky Monet, Katana Chance, Mandy Rose, Mickie James, Naomi, Natalya, Nia Jax, Peyton Royce, Rhea Ripley, Ronda Rousey, Sasha Banks, Tegan Nox and 10 other entrants

WWE title match:
Samoa Joe © vs Sami Zayn

Universal title fatal-4-way match:
Aleister Black © vs Buddy Murphy vs Kevin Owens vs Roman Reigns

Women’s Universal title match:
Charlotte Flair © vs Dakota Kai

WWE Women’s title match:
Asuka © vs Taynara Conti

And

Bad Bunny will perform his new song: Booker T!

EWR Rating:
66%​

 

[Tg11]

Mrs Flair...Charlotte Flair the WWE Women's Universal retains her title against Shayna Baszler in the 1 Hour Iron Woman Match...proving she is the better woman once and for all. 60 minutes and I was thoroughly entertained throughout

But with Baszler coming up short...does she enter the 2021 Women's Royal Rumble Match given her stablemates Ronda Rousey and Natalya are in and Shayna just lost?

Dakota Kai becomes the new #1 Contender for the WWE Women's Universal Championship...getting herself a title shot beating Ruby Riott and we get Kai/Flair at the Rumble...what a matchup that'll be

Andrade is entering the Royal Rumble Match...Andrade was the champion this time last year but now he's in the Royal Rumble Match...along with his Ungovernables teammates Nakamura & Dijakovic...but they could cross paths with The Bloodline and Hurt Business all in 1 match


Ziggler is in and now so is Ali

 

[Roy Mustang]

Smackdown Live
January 15th 2021
Detroit, Michigan
Little Caesars arena​

Smackdown Live starts with the signature cold open as we can see SHAWN MICHAELS in his office with a smile on his face and wearing a cowboy hat. Shawn welcomes us to Smackdown Live and confirms the main event for the evening will see Kevin Owens team up with Universal Champion Aleister Black to take on Roman Reigns and Buddy Murphy! He then says he is starting with another big match, confirming the WWE tag team titles match will start the show!

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*COAT OF ARMS*​

THE UNGOVERNABLES march out onto the entrance ramp with ZELINA VEGA leading DOMINIK DIJAKOVIC and SHINSUKE NAKAMURA to the ring with an evil grin on her face. Corey Graves welcomes us to the show and says we could easily see a title change tonight as Zelina looks like she has a plan. Byron Saxton says she usually does but for the first time in over a year, the Ungovernables are without gold on Raw or Smackdown!

*HEAVY*​

HEAVY MACHINERY walks onto the entrance ramp getting cheers from the live crowd. OTIS DOZOVIC and TUCKER KNIGHT lift their WWE tag team titles into the air as the commentary team reminds us of the fact, they are now 2-time tag team champions. MANDY ROSE joins her friends on the way to the ring. After the usual title announcements, Tucker steps into the ring for the champions whilst Shinsuke starts for the challengers!

Match 1: WWE tag team titles match: Heavy Machinery © w/Mandy Rose vs The Ungovernables w/Zelina Vega​

Match summary: Tucker early on uses his size advantage to control the match and makes frequent tags to Otis. Both men control the match overpowering Nakamura who needs the help of Zelina at ringside to get back into the encounter! Nakamura and Dijakovic work together to isolate Tucker Knight as the match goes on with Mandy Rose getting the fans even more behind Tucker as he looks to get to the corner of the ring and MAKES THE HOT TAG TO OTIS!

Otis steps into the ring and goes wild taking both men down! He even picks up Dijakovic and PLACES HIM OVER HIS HEAD BEFORE GORILLA PRESS TOSSING DIJAKOVIC OUT OF THE RING! Tucker then takes care of him and keeps him out of the match with a POWERSLAM ON THE RING FLOOR! Tucker and Otis then work together to lift up Nakamura hitting him with the COMPACTOR to retain their WWE tag team titles!

Winners via pinfall and still WWE tag team champions: Heavy Machinery (10:50)​

Heavy Machinery get to their feet and celebrate the victory, having finally beaten The Ungovernables in a 2 on 2 match here retaining their WWE tag team titles. The commentary team puts over the teamwork of Heavy Machinery as Mandy Rose climbs into the ring and JUMPS INTO THE ARMS OF OTIS AS THEY CELEBRATE WITH A HUG! Tucker has a big smile on his face watching his friend celebrate as we go to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we can see ALEISTER BLACK sitting alone in a dark room on a steel chair looking directly at the camera before speaking. He says some people think his decision to defend his title in a fatal-4-way is a fool’s errand but he needs to do this. He grips the title ever so slightly tighter as he tells the camera he needs to cleanse the sins and mistakes of the past, and how he lost this title. He tells us he put Seth Rollins through hell, destroyed the Church and now he will defeat all challengers at the Royal Rumble.

Aleister then hears a door open and KEVIN OWENS walks into the room with a slightly smug smile on his face. He tells Aleister he has a nice place in here prompting the Universal Champion to get to his feet and they stand face to face with one another. Owens says it should be him getting a one-on-one match for that title but we’ll worry about that another time. He tells Aleister Black that tonight they need eyes in the back of their head when it comes to dealing with Roman Reigns with his Bloodline and The O.C.

Aleister Black takes a moment before saying he has dealt with a group already in the Church and will bring them down all the same. Owens smirks saying as someone who fought the Church too, the Bloodline is on another level as a threat. Black responds by lifting his Universal title into the air and saying the only one another level is him. Owens tells him not for long before leaving the room. Black glares in the direction Owens left in as we cut back to the ring.

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*EMERGENCE*​

BIG CASS and THE GOOD BROTHERS march out onto the entrance ramp getting boos from the live crowd. The trio walks to the ring as Byron Saxton brings up the arguments between the co-leaders of The O.C. Corey Graves points out it is only natural that two egos the size of Finn Balor and AJ Styles would collide in that fashion especially with both men entering the Royal Rumble. Big Cass grabs a microphone and moves to the middle of the ring as The Good Brothers hang back.

Big Cass tells the fans that they have come to the ring tonight but the O.C. needs to be a united front. This gets loud boos from the live crowd but Big Cass ignores them and talks about the help he has received from them to get back on track, to come back to the WWE and help them run Smackdown! Good Brothers clap behind Big Cass as he is calling both of their leaders to come out to the ring right now!

*I AM DANGER*​

FINN BALOR marches out getting loud boos from the crowd, with a leather jacket and a scowl on his face. He slowly walks to the ring as Byron Saxton says Finn Balor has been in a bad mood since losing his United States title to Chad Gable at New Year Revolution. Corey Graves says that’s because Finn Balor is a winner and the O.C. is about bringing gold. Finn too sweets The Good Brothers before standing next to Big Cass as they wait for…

*PHENOMENAL*​

AJ STYLES! He gets a mixed reaction from the live crowd as he walks onto the entrance ramp. He also looks annoyed as he heads to the ring and hops over the ropes, too sweeting the Good Brothers and Big Cass. The commentary team brings up AJ losing out to Aleister Black at New Year Revolution when he tried to become Universal Champion. Finn and AJ before a word is even uttered look ready to throw hands as Big Cass speaks and looks to keep the duo calm.

He tells the pair that if the O.C. are to get on top we need to be united and two heads are better than one. AJ seems to be listening to his friend while Finn Balor glares at him throughout. Big Cass says he knows they both want to win the Rumble but if they work together, they can take everyone out and leave them two as the final two men in the match. AJ nods liking the idea and Finn Balor comes around to it. AJ then asks for the microphone from Big Cass.

AJ walks up to Finn Balor and says they both had a bad night at New Year Revolution and neither man walked out with a title. Finn scowls but he can’t argue with AJ Styles’s statement. AJ says they were both angry and both said some things they shouldn’t have said. AJ sticks out his hand with the too-sweet symbol saying Big Cass is right and the O.C. are stronger together. Finn takes a few seconds before reciprocating the too sweet with AJ!

Finn says AJ is right and they can work together to make sure he wins the Royal Rumble. AJ slightly laughs it off saying he means one of them winning the Rumble. Finn pauses and says AJ is right but not in a convincing voice. Big Cass, sensing the tension once again, steps forward and says that what might be best for the pair of them is to work together as a team in the ring. He says he will speak to Shawn and get the duo a tag team match next week. AJ and Finn look at each other nodding as they look at each other whilst Smackdown goes to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we see ROMAN REIGNS sitting in his locker room as we hear a knock on the door. Roman turns to JIMMY USO and tells him to see who that is. He walks to the door leaving NAOMI and TAMINA sitting down on the sofa as we can see BUDDY MURPHY standing at the door. Jimmy asks what he wants and he tells Jimmy that he wants to speak to Roman. JACOB FATU steps forward and says anything that can be said to the chief can be said to him.

Roman gets out of his seat and tells them to let him in. Buddy walks past Jimmy and Jacob, glaring at Jacob before standing in front of Roman Reigns. Roman asks what he wants and Buddy says they have a match together tonight so he wants to discuss strategy. Roman smirks at that suggestion and tells Buddy the only strategy he needs to follow is what Roman tells him. Buddy smirks saying he is not one of his family so he won’t take his shit. Jacob inches forward but Buddy says he has an idea for the main event before we cut back to the ring.

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*SHATTERED SKULLS*​

CHARLI EVANS walks to the ring getting a small pop from the live crowd, with her friend MILLIE MCKENZIE heading to the commentary desk and taking a seat next to Corey and Byron. They welcome her to the desk and she tells them that not only is she here to support her friend but she is declaring for the Royal Rumble match wanting to become the youngest person to ever win the match.

*THRONE OF GOLD*​

DEONNA PURRAZZO marches onto the entrance ramp and shows off her NXT Women’s title with a smug smirk on her face. She soaks in the loud boos from the live crowd before slowing heading towards the ring. Millie says she has watched Deonna wrestle around the world for years and she is a great wrestler, just a shame about her personality. Corey Graves puts over her performances in NXT, beating Io Shirai to become champion. Byron says she will be stepping into the ring with former Women’s champions and wonders if her cockiness might cost her. Both women are in the ring as the referee calls for the bell to start the match.

Match 2: Deonna Purrazzo vs Charli Evans​

Match summary: Charli starts the match off at a fast pace, going after Deonna and overpowering Deonna. The NXT Women’s Champion knowing there is a power disadvantage here taking on Charli so starts to target the arms ruthlessly. Millie once again is full of credit for the ring ability of Deonna, calling her truly a virtuoso when it comes to submissions but it is how she acts before and during matches that rubs her the wrong way.

Deonna inside the ring makes a point to make full use of the referee’s count and do as much damage as possible to the arms of Charli Evans. She tries to fight back, going for a few power moves… BUT THE DAMAGE DONE BY DEONNA STOPS HER! Deonna from there takes full control of the match, locking in the VENUS DE MILO! She wrenches it back and Charli tries to power out of the hold… BUT CHARLI IS FORCED TO TAP OUT TO THE NXT WOMEN’S CHAMPION!

Winner via submission: Deonna Purrazzo (7:55)​

Deonna Purrazzo picks up the win in her first-ever Smackdown Live match… BUT SHE REFUSES TO LET GO OF THE HOLD! She wrenches it back inflicting even more damage on Charli Evans… PROMPTING MILLIE MCKENZIE TO LEAVE THE COMMENTARY DESK AND RUN INTO THE RING! She gives Deonna a few stomps to break the hold before looking to grab her for a suplex… BUT DEONNA ESCAPES AND GRABS HER TITLE HEADING UP THE ENTRANCE RAMP! Deonna soaks in the boos, taunting the live crowd as she heads up the entrance ramp. Millie dares her to come back for a fight but the NXT Women’s Champion declines as we cut to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we cut to a video confirming Bad Bunny will be appearing on Smackdown Live next week! We hear all of his accolades and reminders of his performance coming up at the Royal Rumble. The video package finishes off by confirming he will be appearing on Supernova Sessions next week!

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*WATCH ME SHINE*​

We cut back to the ring and BIANCA BELAIR marches to the ring with purpose. She gets a huge pop from the live crowd but she ignores the fans. Byron Saxton brings up the attack last week by Ronda Rousey and clearly Belair is not happy about it. Corey Graves says Belair got involved in the MMA Horsewomen’s business when she stopped Marina from interfering on Smackdown over a month ago. Belair climbs into the ring and paces around the ring with a microphone in hand.

Bianca says she is out here for a long speech, she wants Ronda Rousey and her little hanger-on to make their way to this ring right now! A loud pop from the fans as the crowd is up for seeing a fight. She paces around the ring and promises she isn’t leaving until she gets Ronda Rousey in this ring. The crowd is cheering wildly but there is a lack of response until…

*BAD REPUTATION*​

RONDA ROUSEY marches outflanked by MARINA SHAFIR! She gets loud boos from the live crowd as she looks at the fans with a scowl before pointing at Belair in the ring with a microphone in her other hand. Ronda tells Belair what happened to her last week was her own fault and that she needs… Belair cuts her off and says she didn’t come out here for a talk, demanding Ronda get in the ring with her right now for a fight. The crowd loudly cheers but Ronda shakes her head.

Ronda Rousey tells Belair she is a top star and if Belair wants a fight, it will be on Ronda’s terms promising not to waste one of her matches in Detroit! This prompts loud boos from the live crowd. She tells Belair that she will fight and break her arm in two weeks. She wants to give Belair the chance to think about what she did. Belair says she doesn’t need to think about what she did to Ronda because she would do it again as the E.S.T! She promises that not only is going to kick Ronda’s ass but she is going to win the Royal Rumble as the two women stare each other down ahead of the commercial break.

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*BORN A KING*​

JIMMY USO walks out onto the entrance ramp getting boos from the live crowd. Bryon Saxton mentions there is no Jacob Fatu at ringside flanking Jimmy tonight, finding it suspicious. Corey Graves counters saying Roman wants the Bloodline to be able to handle their own business and tonight Jimmy has the chance to prove himself against a 12-time World Champion in…

*METALINGUS*​

EDGE! The legend gets a huge pop from the live crowd as once again he takes a moment to soak in the reaction from the fans before posing in front of his pyro! He has a slight smile on his face and walks to the ring as Byron Saxton says Edge has won the Royal Rumble before coming back from a near-career-threatening injury. Corey says his run in last year’s coming back after 8 years was impressive and now, he is back in the ring full time, could he go all the way and win. Edge stands across the ring from Jimmy Uso as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 3: Edge vs Jimmy Uso​

Match summary: Jimmy Uso starts the match at a fast pace, wanting to impress his Tribal Chief in Roman and get a victory over a Hall of Famer. Edge though weathers the early storm from Jimmy and takes control of the match. There is a brief scare partway through the match thanks to a SUPERKICK from Jimmy Uso but Edge kicks out! In the end, Edge manages to put him away hitting him with a SPEAR!

Winner via pinfall: Edge (5:04)​

Edge gets to his feet getting loud cheers from the live crowd, as he plays to the fans and does the signature pointing at the WrestleMania sign. The commentary team puts over the performance from the legend and hypes him up as one of the favorites to win the Royal Rumble in 3 weeks. Edge carries on the celebrations as he leaves the ring and backs up the entrance ramp… JACOB FATU ATTACKS HIM FROM BEHIND!

Edge falls down on the entrance ramp as Jacob lays into him with a series of clubbing blows giving the legend a beating on the entrance ramp. Jacob carries on the beating as Jimmy Uso rolls out of the ring to talk a bunch of trash before Jacob Fatu climbs onto the barricade HITTING A MIGHTY MOONSAULT OFF THE BARRICADE TO EDGE CRUSHING HIS RIBS AGAIN! Jacob Fatu gets back to his feet as the commentary wonders if he is a dark horse in the Rumble as we cut elsewhere backstage to see…

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SHAWN MICHAELS standing in his office backstage wearing his signature cowboy hat. He looks at the camera with a smile and hypes up both Royal Rumbles, promising that the best talent from Smackdown will make the brand proud. He then tells the camera that someone who has made him proud is Chad Gable as United States Champion. He says his first challenger in this second reign will be decided next week on Smackdown in a triple threat between Apollo Crews. Gran Metalik and Rowe. The winner will fight Chad Gable on Smackdown Live in two weeks!

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When we return from the commercial break, we cut to a promo from NXT on Wednesday night where ROBERT STONE stands in front of the camera with his clients: RAQUEL RODRIGUEZ, CHELSEA GREEN, ALIYAH and VANESSA BOURNE! Robert Stone says his clients have been dominating the NXT brand but there is something his clients deserve: the WWE Women’s tag team titles. He is issuing a challenge to the Boss ‘N’ Hug Connection saying they are too busy focusing on the Royal Rumble and singles success when they should be focusing on them. Chelsea throws in some insults as noticeably Raquel rolls her eyes before the promo comes to an end.

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*SHAKE SHAKE*​

TAYNARA CONTI makes her way out getting a decent pop from the fans. She is joined by her tag team partner XIA LI on the way down to the ring with her playing to the fans whilst Conti is focused, staring dead ahead. Byron Saxton says Conti has been picking up some big wins as of late and earned the chance to fight Asuka at the Royal Rumble. Corey Graves questions if she is ready to step up to someone the level of Asuka who has been able to defeat nearly everyone who has ever stepped up to her.

Taynara and Xia are standing in the ring with Conti grabbing a microphone. Conti addresses the live crowd saying last year was the best year of her career with her showing the world how good she can be making the final 4 of the Royal Rumble. She then went on to fight Sasha Banks and I proved I could hang with the best when I beat her in the middle of the ring. Xia Li nods along hyping up her close friend as Conti says this is exactly why she can defeat…

*THE FUTURE (V2)*​

ASUKA! A huge pop from the live crowd as the WWE Women’s Champion walks out onto the entrance ramp and slowly walks down the ramp with a smirk on her face. Conti stays quiet as she watches the Empress closely before she climbs into the ring. Asuka stands across from Conti staying quiet before lifting up her own microphone to tell Conti she is not ready. Mostly cheers from the live crowd though some people boo this line as Asuka looks at Conti smirking, making Conti even more angry. Conti asks what is wrong with Asuka and swears in Portuguese! She is heated before going back to English saying she is ready; she deserves this chance and she can beat Asuka.

The crowd is behind her but Asuka just smiles in her normal fashion about to speak again… XIA LI TAKES THE MICROPHONE FROM ASUKA! Asuka looks a bit shocked as Xia Li tells Asuka to show them respect and says she’ll fight her next week. Asuka smirks, taking the microphone back and tells Conti to watch next week, leaving the ring! Conti looks to go after Asuka but Xia stops her and calms her friend down. Asuka backs up the ramp holding her title in the air with a smirk as the crowd cheers her on. Taynara Conti meanwhile looks full of anger as we cut to a commercial break.

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We return from the commercial break, and we can see KURT ANGLE standing backstage by a wrestling ring as United States Champion CHAD GABLE grapples with MATT RIDDLE! Both men are battling and fairly evenly matched before Gable gets him in an ANKLE LOCK! Riddle quickly taps bringing the battle to an end. Kurt Angle puts them over as both being great athletes and some of the best wrestlers in the world. Chad leans over telling us that it helps having a great mentor like him. Kurt smiles like a proud dad as Chad Gable stands next to him to ask the coach what he thinks of his potential challengers.

Kurt starts with Rowe saying he might be known as a tag tea, specialist but for someone his size, he is agile and a dangerous threat. Apollo Crews is someone he considered for the Academy but his recent attitude put him off. Lastly, he gets to Gran Metalik, bringing up his NXT Cruiserweight title reign recently, and says he is a big threat as a former champion. Chad Gable gives them credit calling them all worthy challengers before Riddle chimes in to say it’s time for D-Bry’s match so they all head to the TV screen to watch the other teacher in Alpha Academy in action.

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*WEEKEND ROCKSTAR*​

NOAM DAR makes his way out getting loud boos from the crowd on the way out onto the entrance ramp. He is joined by his tag team partner and partner in crime KENNY WILLIAMS who further winds the crowd up. Corey Graves says Noam Dar called his shot last week saying Bryan is the past and he is the future. Byron Saxton says if there is one thing Dar does not lack it is confidence and he will be feeling himself ahead of entering the Royal Rumble!

*FLIGHT OF THE VALKYRIES*​

DANIEL BRYAN walks out onto the entrance ramp getting loud cheers from the live crowd. DANIEL GARCIA walks out with him, looking a bit more serious than Bryan as he follows his mentor towards the ring. Byron Saxton says Daniel Bryan has talked about reaching the end of his career but one of the few things he hasn’t done is win the Rumble. Corey Graves says Daniel Bryan has achieved a lot but it might be too late for him to win the Royal Rumble. Bryan stands across from the smirking Dar barely acknowledging him as the referee calls for the bell to get this match underway!

Match 4: Daniel Bryan w/Daniel Garcia vs Noam Dar w/Kenny Williams​

Match summary: Noam Dar and Daniel Bryan both battle with each other using submissions as they try to weaken each other in the opening stages of the match. Dar targets the right leg of Bryan whilst Bryan goes after the neck and back of Dar. The Scottish Supernova for all of his bravado last week, is dominated in the early stages of the match and it is shown that Daniel Bryan is clearly on a level above him as the match goes on.

Kenny Williams has to get involved on a couple of occasions to distract the referee or mess with Bryan, angering Garcia across the ring from him. Dar uses any cheap tricks he can but, in the end, once too many times Kenny tries to get involved and Daniel Garcia lays into Kenny Williams fighting to the back with him. Without the help at ringside Bryan manages to get him down to the mat and locks in the YES LOCK FORCING HIM TO TAP OUT!

Winner via submission: Daniel Bryan (8:56)​

Loud cheers from the crowd as Daniel Bryan lets go of the hold and celebrates the victory over the cocky Scottish Superstar. Noam Dar rolls out of the ring and retreats to the back pretty quickly as Bryan does the “YES” chant to the delight of the fans. The commentary team says for all of Dar’s talk, Bryan showed no sign of having lost a step in this match and will be one of the favorites to win the Royal Rumble as we cut to a commercial break.

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When we return from the commercial break, we can see HEAVY MACHINERY is mid-celebration backstage, with MANDY ROSE joining her new friends in the celebration as well. OTIS DOZOVIC is about to give a speech, wanting to tell Mandy something; however, they are interrupted by THE MYSTERIOS! Both teams are very friendly to each other and shake hands, with TUCKER KNIGHT asking the father-son duo what brings them into the room.

REY MYSTERIO jokes about loving a party but he was here with his son as they wanted to discuss business. DOMINIK MYSTERIO tells the tag team champions they want to become the first-ever father and son tag team champions. Both members of Heavy Machinery nod and shake hands with the Mysterios saying they would gladly accept the challenge. Mandy tells the champions to keep on celebrating and she will go have a word with Shawn Michaels right now!

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We next see the BOSS ‘N’ HUG CONNECTION standing together with their WWE Women’s tag team titles on their shoulders. SASHA BANKS speaks first saying they have not been ignoring any challenges and will gladly fight the Robert Stone Brand any time any place. BAYLEY chimes in as well saying they can focus on two goals and they will be defending these tag team titles against all challengers before one of them wins the Royal Rumble. Banks and Bayley share a handshake with both saying may the best woman win.

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When we return from the final commercial break of the evening, Corey Graves and Byron Saxton on commentary confirm that the WWE Women’s tag team titles will be defended on Smackdown next week against the Robert Stone Brand plus Daniel Garcia will take on Kenny Williams. Lastly, they confirmed in two weeks Heavy Machinery will defend their WWE tag team titles against The Mysterios!

*SHADOW OF DOUBT*​

BUDDY MURPHY walks to the ring first for the main event with a scowl on his face. He gets boos from the live crowd before climbing into the ring waiting for his tag team partner tonight. Byron Saxton says Buddy Murphy was seen earlier tonight discussing plans with Roman Reigns and wonders what was agreed between them. Corey Graves says it makes sense for two tag team partners to come up with a game plan before a main event.

*HEAD OF THE TABLE*​

ROMAN REIGNS marches out to loud boos from the live crowd. He takes a moment and soaks in the heat from the fans. Corey Graves says the Tribal Chief is not at all happy about having to fight for the title in a fatal-4-way match, believing the title is his by right and should be fighting Aleister Black one-on-one at the Royal Rumble! Byron Saxton says Roman needs to understand he is not the only one who wants the Universal title. He joins Buddy inside the ring as they wait for…

*FIGHT*​

KEVIN OWENS makes his way out next getting loud cheers from the crowd. He is wary as he walks into the entrance ramp, having dealt with the Bloodline for nearly 6 months at this point. Bryon Saxton says Kevin Owens also felt he should be getting a one-on-one Universal title shot after waiting years for a rematch after losing to Goldberg. Corey Graves brings up his quick win over Kross at New Year Revolution and says he will be looking to dispose of his opponents just as quickly tonight!

*ROOT OF ALL EVIL*​

ALEISTER BLACK makes his way out, rising from the depths of the arena to stand next to Kevin Owens. Black turns to Kevin and nods as they walk to the ring to cheers from the fans in the live crowd. Corey Graves says Aleister Black’s right leg won’t be 100% after the assault on it by AJ Styles at New Year Revolution. Byron Saxton says he will need to be careful how he uses his kicks in this match. After some talk, Kevin Owens starts for his team whilst Buddy Murphy starts for the other team.

Main event: Aleister Black and Kevin Owens vs Roman Reigns and Buddy Murphy​

Match summary: Neither team is familiar with their tag team partners in this match. Black and Owens seem to be getting along better during the match with some clear distrust between Murphy and Roman. The heels do take control of the match and isolate Kevin Owens but as we get towards the end of the match, Owens makes the hot tag to bring Black into the match. He is on fire and is lining up Murphy for BLACK MASS… JACOB FATU, JIMMY USO, BIG CASS AND THE GOOD BROTHERS ATTACK FOR THE DQ!

Winners via disqualification: Aleister Black and Kevin Owens (7:20)​

Loud boos from the crowd as The Bloodline and The O.C. work together to beat up both Aleister Black and Kevin Owens! Byron Saxton on commentary is furious and says this must have been the plan all along. Corey Graves meanwhile calls it brilliant and says they have masterminded this attack tonight. The beatdown carries on with them removing the announce table tops and as the GOOD BROTHERS PUT BLACK THROUGH A TABLE WHILST BIG CASS PUTS OWENS THROUGH ONE! The groups look happy…

JACOB FATU ATTACKS BIG CASS! The O.C. are taken off-guard as ROMAN TAKES DOWN BUDDY MURPHY and JIMMY USO USES A STEEL CHAIR ON THE GOOD BROTHERS! The Bloodline beat down the O.C. leaving them laying at ringside in the wreckage next to Black and Owens. Roman shouts to Jimmy to go to the timekeeper’s area as he snatches the title away from the timekeeper and walks back to Roman passing him the title! Smackdown Live comes to an end with Roman Reigns standing in the ring next to Jacob Fatu and Jimmy Uso holding the Universal title as we fade to black.

Confirmed matches for next week:

WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles match:
Boss ‘N’ Hug Connection © vs The Robert Stone Brand

Number one contender’s triple threat match for the United States title:
Apollo Crews vs Gran Metalik vs Rowe

Tag team match:
AJ Styles and Finn Balor vs ???

Singles match:
Asuka vs Xia Li

Singles match:
Daniel Garcia vs Kenny Williams

Confirmed matches in two weeks:

United States title match:
Chad Gable © vs Apollo Crews or Gran Metalik or Rowe

WWE tag team titles match:
Heavy Machinery © vs The Mysterios

Singles match:
Ronda Rousey vs Bianca Belair

Matchcard for Royal Rumble
January 31st 2021
St Louis, Missouri
The Dome at Americans Center

EVA UNDER FIRE – I WILL FIGHT

Men’s Royal Rumble match:
Andrade Cien Almas, AJ Styles, Big E, Braun Strowman, Cesaro, Chad Gable, Daniel Bryan, Dolph Ziggler, Dominik Dijakovic, Drew McIntyre, Edge, Finn Balor, Jacob Fatu, James Storm, Keith Lee, Kofi Kingston, Lio Rush, Mustafa Ali, Noam Dar, Shinsuke Nakamura, Swerve Strickland, Tommaso Ciampa, Xavier Woods and 7 other entrants

Women’s Royal Rumble match:
Alexa Bliss, Bayley, Bianca Belair, Billie Kay, Carmella, Dani Luna, Deonna Purrazzo, Ember Moon, Franky Monet, Katana Chance, Mandy Rose, Mickie James, Millie McKenzie, Naomi, Natalya, Nia Jax, Peyton Royce, Rhea Ripley, Ronda Rousey, Sasha Banks, Tegan Nox and 9 other entrants

WWE title match:
Samoa Joe © vs Sami Zayn

Universal title fatal-4-way match:
Aleister Black © vs Buddy Murphy vs Kevin Owens vs Roman Reigns

Women’s Universal title match:
Charlotte Flair © vs Dakota Kai

WWE Women’s title match:
Asuka © vs Taynara Conti

And

Bad Bunny will perform his new song: Booker T!

EWR Rating:
73%​