WWE 2024: A Fresh Slate

[DamageCTRL]

World Wrestling Entertainment entered a renaissance period in the summer of 2022. After Vince McMahon finally stepped down from his post, Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque assumed duties as the new head of creative for WWE. This moment marked a historic change of the guard. Wrestling bookers don’t often last more than a handful of years. McMahon ruled over WWE, the former World Wrestling Federation, for decades. The McMahon family founded the preeminent pro wrestling company. But it was no longer in their hands.

While he successfully got back into the company, 2024 marked the official end of the Vince McMahon era. The weekend of the Royal Rumble, McMahon resigned, and based on what the TKO Group has said, he will be gone for good.

Describing McMahon may be an unenviable task, but it’s not difficult to describe why so much resentment grew around the company. You could argue that, since the year 2002, they started to slip creatively. The late 2000s were mostly bankrupt creatively. One of the television shows was a remarkable deadzone with almost no effort shown across the board. Apathy reigned.

The berth of NXT helped, but not all the way. While NXT proved there was another way to promote and do the pro wrestling game, McMahon was stubborn. Creative processes were different, it never appeared like they were cohesive, and often, McMahon would get bored, and toss wrestlers aside. It grew more callous and irritating when there were blatantly more talented wrestlers in NXT than on the main roster, and McMahon’s refusal, combined with cognitive dissonance, initiated a rot that took a long time to get out of.

But WWE is now onto a new era. In the wake of WrestleMania XL, the company’s biggest edition of the event yet, stories ended. It was like the Avengers: Endgame of WWE. The Bloodline, The Judgment Day, Damage CTRL, three of the factions that reigned supreme in WWE, had consequential moments go down. But now, new roads are set to be paved.

An influx of energetic, burgeoning talent is likely only to help things, not hurt them. This is WWE in 2024, with a fresher slate than they’ve ever had before.

---

Long and short: I'm not done with this hobby. I just got railroaded with my job (Don't worry, I'm very much gainfully employed) and everything went to shit quickly. Now, not so much. Let's ride.​

 

[DamageCTRL]

Right, so I'm not going to be transparent here.

I'm going to give y'all some things to expect through stipulations.
​

WWE 2024: A FRESH SLATE'S STIPULATIONS​

1. We will try to differentiate from real life as much as humanly possible, but there will be limits. Much of the first week will be very procedural. I have no plans to end The Bloodline angle, because I'd be an idiot to try not to put my own spin on it. Certain moves in the Draft that happened will absolutely not be replicated.

2. By the time 2024 ends in this thread, no fewer than five WWE wrestlers will move on to AEW or otherwise.

3. On the other end, at least three AEW wrestlers will come to WWE. And at least one of them won't be someone who's in a position to leave the company either. If you know me, you probably know what's coming here.

4. Mercedes Mone is in AEW. WWE did not re-sign her, just like in real life. I will not be signing Will Osperay or Kazuchika Okada, either. The only AEW people you should ever expect not to see me use in this thread for as long as we go are the EVPs and Britt Baker.

5. I will have five NXT call-ups in the Draft, at minimum. On the other end, related to #2, there will be cuts in June and September.

(If anyone has any fun stipulations they wanna suggest for me or to me, let me know or something. I wanna have fun and be engaging)​

 

[Time For Change]

I am absolutely stoked for this project man........can't wait

 

[DamageCTRL]

WHAT I'M HEARING...​

(This will be either monthly or "weekly" depending on the situation. Very meta)
​

WWE has viewed WrestleMania XL internally as a massive success. After finally cutting ties with Vince McMahon in January, they've gone full speed ahead in going for a new direction and a fresh coat of paint. It's safe to say it's worked out after the fantastic two-day extravaganza.

The Rock is still in town in Philadelphia, so you may not have seen the last of him quite yet going into Raw.

Cody Rhodes and Damian Priest are both scheduled to defend their titles at Backlash France. This will be one of the first shows to feature multiple World Title matches outside the Big 4 in quite some time.

Roman Reigns is expected back around SummerSlam season. He's taking a much-earned sabbatical.

WWE has been aggressive in signing talents after their hiring freeze prevented them a bit last year. Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa, the Guerillas of Destiny, are at the top of their wishlist. They made the Giulia signing official at NXT Stand & Deliver this weekend. She's expected to start in NXT soon enough.

That wishlist might be growing with certain AEW contracts coming up this month. There were rumors that some AEW wrestlers were seen in Philadelphia this weekend. 3 names to watch: Keith Lee,/ Ricky Starks, and Jamie Hayter.

Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch are expected to take breaks this year. Lynch's contract will expire next month, but she's not expected to leave the company. A birdie said that she gave a verbal to WWE this weekend.

Bayley-Iyo was heralded as one of the best matches of the weekend that didn't have any Bloodline involvement. Many backstage feel Bayley's moment at Mania XL, like her Rumble victory in January, was earned and had been earned a long time ago. The entire women's locker room watched their match in Gorilla and Bayley was serenaded with praise and embrace after the match concluded.

Becky Lynch and Rhea Ripley were praised for how they put their match together as well. Lynch fell ill before Saturday evening and Ripley was not 100 percent either. It's fair to wonder if they'll be given a mulligan someday, even though the match was still very well received.

A Women's US and Intercontinental Title are expected to be introduced within the next year. The tag division is expected to also see a massive boost over the next few months.

With contracts coming up off the books, there might be a lot of moving and shaking going on between NXT and the main roster. Tentatively, there might be a lot of call-ups through the WWE Draft, which is scheduled to take place as of right now at the end of April ahead of Backlash France. WWE is skewing younger, and with certain roster personnel aging, or having been around for a while, change may be in the air.

Potential names to watch to leave WWE within the year: Ricochet, Bobby Lashley, and Shinsuke Nakamura

Saturday Night's Main Event is expected to make its long-awaited return to NBC this winter. The network will not budge off Q3, with college football dominating Saturday nights during that time period. As part of WWE's new agreement, there will be four TV specials. Another SNME may come before the Rumble, but a date and location need to be hashed out.

WrestleMania might not be the only two-night event for WWE going forward.

 

[DamageCTRL]

It’s like riding a bike. You never forget. But you have to get back in a groove…

Bare bones on matches besides key details. Keyed in on storytelling. Let's ride again folks.

---

Monday Night Raw
April 8, 2024
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The Bloodline’s reign over WWE came to an end at WrestleMania XL. That was the biggest development coming out of the two-night extravaganza in the City of Brotherly Love. The aftermath of the biggest show of the year proved to be just as exciting.

Paul ‘Triple H’ Levesque and General Manager Adam Pearce welcomed Cody Rhodes to begin the program. After a fine speech, and a championship coronation, The Judgment Day intruded on the festivities. An irate Damian Priest wondered where his celebration was. Priest said that Rhodes had made their lives miserable for nearly a year and now he’s really getting in their way. Rhodes called Priest a grouch and told him that he’d be done “encroaching” on his territory after tonight. But, before that, Rhodes had a proposition: Tonight, in the spirit of WrestleMania, Rhodes pondered an “All-Star Tag Match.” Cody said his thought was for him to find another male partner, but to make this fun, to include two women as well! Cody knew just the two, offering spots to Becky Lynch and Liv Morgan! That drew Rhea Ripley’s ire, and she certainly didn’t look happy. Cody said this shouldn’t be a problem as long as Ripley had allies. That’s the joke! Rhodes then said his other partner would be none other than the NEW Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn!

GMAP made the match official, and we were instore for quite a show

One of what would be many WrestleMania XL video packages played.

Chad Gable defeated Ricochet in a hot opener. Gable declared his intentions to enter the King of the Ring Tournament, which he said he was going to win.

An irate Judgment Day tried to figure out how to attack the situation. Ripley said she hated that Rhodes sounded so sure that she wouldn’t have any allies around. But she clearly knew the scoreboard. Priest and the rest of Judgment Day told her that she’d find someone, but an annoyed Ripley admitted that she made enemies with basically everyone.

“Well, not everybody…”

Emerging in the darkness of the Judgment Day hangout… was Dakota Kai! Ripley sized Kai up and there was a clear amount of respect between the two. Kai told Ripley Damage CTRL was willing to play ball, but they had to be proper terms. Ripley said she’d be willing to discuss anything. Dakota nodded, and it seemed something was struck…

A video package for the two-time NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez aired.

Fittingly, Perez competed in a non-title match next, defeating Natalya.

Pearce and Triple H returned to present Awesome Truth with a new set of Tag Team Championships. But then after they left the ring, Drew McIntyre came to the ring. An upset McIntyre said he should be World Champion and should have a celebration of his own. But he can’t because of one man. McIntyre said he should be World Heavyweight Champion right now. But he isn’t because of one man.

McIntyre goes onto say another line, but he’s interrupted… by one man—CM Punk!! Punk walked out and essentially told McIntyre that he got what he deserved. McIntyre will never admit it of course, but Punk said that he was cruising towards this happening. Punk referenced McIntyre saying he prayed for Punk to get hurt, and it happened. Punk said he’s never been a man of faith, but he manifested what happened at WrestleMania.

He said he loves that he cost McIntyre the World Heavyweight Championship because he it gave him the same pain that he experienced at the Royal Rumble when he got hurt because of McIntyre. “An eye for an eye.” Punk said that he won’t stop until he sees McIntyre become even more miserable and warned him that when he’s cleared he’s going to have a lot to get off his chest. This segment like a lot of others went long. With a banged up roster promos have gone long tonight.

“Big” Bronson Reed def. Ivar in a matchup of heavyweights. Reed won with THREE TSUNAMIS

Cathy Kelley interviewed Liv Morgan outside her locker room. Morgan said that she wasn’t at WrestleMania but once again was hungry for an opportunity to get back at Rhea Ripley. She explained that Ripley put her on the shelf months ago and she wanted revenge. Just then, Dakota Kai appeared and distracted Liv. She pulled Morgan away from the scene and then Morgan got ambushed from behind!! The Kabuki Warriors—Asuka and Kairi Sane—began to pummel Morgan!! Kai joined in on the attack as the trio laid Morgan out and went after the previously injured shoulder!

After a break and a replay, Becky Lynch checked in on a hurt Liv Morgan backstage. GMAP informed Lynch that there was “no way” that Morgan could compete tonight. Lynch was irritated, but the multi-time World Champion appeared to have a plan on her mind.

Andrade and Rey Mysterio def. The Street Profits. A short staff means interpromotional matches!

“Main Event” Jey Uso received a video package, highlighting his victory over his brother Jimmy at WrestleMania, and plotting what’s next for the red-hot superstar.

In a 10-woman tag team match, Tegan Nox, Katana Chance, Kayden Carter, Maxxine Dupri, and NXT’s Sol Ruca def. Candice LeRae, Chelsea Green, Indi Hartwell, Shayna Baszler, and Zoey Stark. Nox pinned Stark.

Rhea Ripley smiled while shaking hands with Dakota Kai for “doing business” tonight. Ripley asked Kai if she was going to be joining her tonight in her match. Kai said “no,” which surprised Ripley… until she realized that Kai was set to reveal Iyo Sky as her partner!! The former WWE Women’s Champion!

Seth Freakin’ Rollins came out to the ring. Rollins said that he did what he felt that he had to do at WrestleMania to get the job done. Rollins said that he did what he did because he knew, deep down, that there was one thing that Roman Reigns couldn’t run from. Seth said he made that perfectly clear in the main event last night. Rollins congratulated Rhodes, through gritted teeth, and proclaimed that now since the ‘war’ was over, he had some ‘licks’ to think about getting back. Rollins said that Damian Priest is a marked man and so is Drew McIntyre. And Rollins didn’t exclude CM Punk either, which stirred up the crowd.

But what really stirred up the crowd, as the third hour was beginning to burn, was the appearance of THE GREAT ONE! THE ROCK made a showstopping appearance. That preexisting buzz that he was still in town was correct!! The Rock went down the aisle and to the ring as a shocked Rollins stared him down. You could tell Seth wasn’t expecting this, but he had appearances to keep.

Rock got the crowd stirred up again and then looked at Rollins across the ring. The Rock said that last night didn’t go the way things were supposed to go. He blames a set of people, and The Rock said that one of them is Seth Freakin’ Rollins. Wow. Rock told Rollins that he got in the way at the end of the match and, now, we have a new World Champion. The Rock said that the Head of the Table won’t accept that, no matter where he is.

Rock told Rollins that he heard what Cody had to say earlier and what Seth just had to say. He thinks it’s funny that the two of them think anything is over. Rock says that everything has just begun. The Final Boss then told Rollins to buckle up… … because the next ride would take him where he never expected… …

Rock and Rollins stared each other down… Seth turned to leave…

Rock grabbed him by the hand! Oh! Pulled him in! ROCK BOTTOM TO SETH ROLLINS!!!

The Great One stood up and shut his eyes in ecstasy while the reaction rained down. Rock then bent down and told Rollins that he was about to feel the backlash of what he’s done. He said the thing!

Becky Lynch appeared again, on the phone with someone. Her urgency ran rampant as she informed whoever she was on the line with that she could “really” use the help tonight. She hung up the phone then after leaving a voicemail… … … and stared The Rock down!

The Rock looked at Lynch… and just laughed. And walked away. Lynch looked on with disgust and shook her head.

A Sami Zayn-Gunther video package aired, in NFL Films style.

NXT Champion Ilja Dragunov defeated Shinsuke Nakamura in an abrupt banger.

In a tale of contrasts, a functioning Damage CTRL and Judgment Day made their way to gorilla on one side of the screen. On the other were Becky Lynch, Cody Rhodes, and Sami Zayn, still missing a fourth…

That fourth person was none other than…

Bayley! Of course.

Bayley, Becky Lynch, Cody Rhodes, and Sami Zayn def. Damian Priest, Dominik Mysterio, Iyo Sky, and Rhea Ripley. Cody pinned Dom.

And after the ring cleared…

THE ROCK STRUCK AGAIN, HITTING CODY RHODES WITH A ROCK BOTTOM!

END OF SHOW

Quick Results
Chad Gable def. Ricochet
Roxanne Perez def. Natalya
"Big" Bronson Reed def. Ivar
Andrade and Rey Mysterio def. The Street Profits
Tegan Nox, KC-Squared, Maxxine Dupri, and Sol Ruca def. The Way, Chelsea Green, Shayna Baszler, and Zoey Stark
Ilja Dragunov def. Shinsuke Nakamura
Bayley, Becky Lynch, Cody Rhodes, and Sami Zayn def. Damian Priest, Dominik Mysterio, Iyo Sky, and Rhea Ripley

 

[DamageCTRL]

Folks. We have some juice.

NXT
April 9, 2024
Winter Park, Florida

The NXT Women’s Champion Roxanne Perez opened up the show. Perez boasted about her victory Saturday and then her win over Natalya last night on Monday Night Raw. Perez said that she had every intention of declaring for the WWE Draft, which sent quite a message. She was ready for the big girls. Ava then came out and informed Perez that tonight she had a unique idea for her next title defense. While she had the Draft on her mind, Perez still had a responsibility. She rolled her eyes, while Ava explained tonight, Lyra Valkyria and Tatum Paxley would team up against Fallon Henley and Kelani Jordan. The person who scored the pinfall or submission, Ava explained, would be the #1 Contender! Perez rolled her eyes at the suggestion, but then got ready for a fight! As she went to leave, Lyra Valkyria wasted no time and ran out and started a fistfight with the NXT Women’s Champion!

Sol Ruca got a vignette in her favor, showing off her performance last night on Monday Night Raw.

Sol Ruca def. Lola Vice in a pretty intense match for the returning Ruca, who’s getting right back on her feet.

Jacy Jayne and Jaida Parker had an exchange backstage that nearly got heated. Jayne didn’t make it to the main event tonight, and Parker didn’t appreciate Jayne’s ‘whining’ in the locker room that she didn’t get that opportunity. Parker pointed to her loss at Stand and Deliver as a potential reason why that happened. She said she should work on that. Jayne got upset and the two nearly got into it.

A recap of Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes’ match from Stand and Deliver was promised for later tonight.

Fallon Henley and Kelani Jordan went back and forth with each other on the potential of being #1 contender. They both agreed winning the match was the top priority, but it seemed like they each wanted the shot at Roxanne.

Jaida Parker def. Brinley Reece. She called out Jayne again for whining and told her that’s how you get things done.

Kelly Kincaid interviewed a passionate Lyra Valkyria. Valkyria talked about how much pride she felt after winning the NXT Women’s Champion from a “great champion” like Becky Lynch. Valkyria said she wanted to continue to reign with honor and prestige like the greats before her (Becky, Bayley, Charlotte, Asuka, and Rhea were named). But she can’t now because Roxanne played dirty and won the title after hitting her with the title belt. Lyra said that she wasn’t gonna take that. She’s unsure of declaring for the Draft yet but she wants a piece of Roxanne first! But then Perez gave her an opportunity!! Kincaid scurried away after Perez came in and tackled Valkyria in the pit! The two kept their brawl that started earlier going until security was finally able to break them up.

Karmen Petrovic def. Blair Davenport. This one went a little bit, a nice showcase for two budding stars.

Carmelo Hayes appeared backstage, finally arriving to the building.

Backstage, a disgruntled Blair Davenport tore up her wrist tape and went to go to the locker room. That is until one Isla Dawn appeared out of nowhere, tantalizing the distraught Davenport.

A highlight reel aired for NXT Champion Ilja Dragunov, who won on Monday Night Raw last night as well.

Bron Breakker, Baron Corbin, and Fraxiom held court in the ring. The two sides agreed to an NXT Tag Team Championships Match next week! And it would be contested under Tornado rules. How exciting.

The LWO def. Gallus in a Six-Man Tag Match

The recap to Trick-Melo played. Hayes walked out afterwards to boos from the NXT fans. Melo said that Saturday proved absolutely nothing. He said Trick caught lightning in a bottle and got a win over him. He’s man enough to admit he got beat, but he refuses to say he’s not the better man. This drew Williams out, who called Melo a coward for not fully admitting defeat. Trick said there was nothing sideways about what happened in Philadelphia. He called Melo a sore loser. Melo responded saying Trick is riding the high of his life, but the come down always hits no matter what. He promised he would show who the better man was soon.

Tony D’Angelo and The Family agreed to reassess business and scout the scene before making their next move.

Noam Dar and Oro Mensah def. Duke Hudson and Riley Osborne.

Jakara Jackson and Lash Legend cut a pre-taped promo, daring Damage CTRL or “any” main roster tag team to come to Spring Breakin’!

Lexis King def. Javier Bernal

Tatum Paxley pinned Fallon Henley to become the #1 Contender for Roxanne Perez’s NXT Women’s Championship. Kelani Jordan didn’t factor into the decision, while Lyra Valkyria once again got into it with Roxanne Perez while she wasn’t the legal woman. Valkyria left Pax on her own, but Pax prevailed anyway.

Perez and Valkyria’s fight spilled into the parking lot. The two fought tooth and nail with each other and got real physical. Valkyria got the upper hand on Perez and had her stunned up against a car. But then suddenly, someone emerged behind that car and struck Lyra in the back with a pipe! WTF! Perez then took this opportunity, as the unknown attacker went loose. She grabbed Valkyria and put her up on the car. She beat her up with her stunned, and then Perez looked at the door again. Roxanne wanted to show who was dominant around here and clearly wanted to rid at least one of her contenders tonight, interfering in the match. She looked to do more than just that as she opened the door and then kicked Valkyria in the gut. She kept beating her down and then put her arm in the slot. Oh no…

PEREZ THEN SLAMMED THE DOOR ON VALKYRIA’S ARM!!!

OH NO!!!! OH THAT MUST BE BROKEN!!!

Roxanne laughed as she backed away from the scene. She looked on as personnel flooded in as the parking lot has claimed another.

END OF SHOW​

 

[DamageCTRL]

Let's. Ride.

Friday Night Smackdown​

April 12, 2024
Detroit, Michigan

Smackdown began with General Manager Nick Aldis in his office.

General Manager Nick Aldis:
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Friday Night Smackdown. My name is Nick Aldis, the General Manager of this show. On Monday night, two Smackdown superstars got involved in the main event of Monday Night Raw.

A remarkably sharp tone for Aldis.

GMNA:
New WWE Women’s Champion Bayley and former Women’s Champion Iyo Sky participated in an 8-person tag team main event. As General Manager of Smackdown, I want to make it clear that I have no problem with that. Iyo and Damage CTRL represent the Women’s Tag Team Champions, who are allowed to travel from show to show. Bayley is the Women’s Champion, and has earned her keep. But that’s not why I’m addressing you all tonight.

Oh…

GMNA:
After Monday Night Raw went off the air, Bayley and Iyo got into another fight. That fight (footage starts playing) carried on through the crowd and into the backstage area. Sky and Bayley had to be pulled apart before anything else happened. I can assure you that tonight, this will not be happening. I understand the tension that exists between the two though—

“You’re damn right it’s not happening again.”

It’s Bayley! The Women’s Champion was here and had something to say.

Bayley:
I know where you’re gonna go with this Nick. But I don’t want nor do I need the night off from anything.

Based on his reaction, the Champion’s wisdom was accurate.

Bayley:
It is very clear that Damage CTRL isn’t going anywhere. And I’m fine with that. I don’t want them to go anywhere. Beating Iyo Sky wasn’t enough for me at WrestleMania. And clearly what happened at WrestleMania wasn’t enough for Iyo Sky either.

GMNA:
Well Bayley, your word carries a lot of weight. And as General Manager, it’s not just about making sure you all respect me, but about respecting you all as well. I’m going to give Iyo the night off, but I won’t do the same for you.

Bayley smiles, getting what she wanted.

GMNA:
To that end. You want to get your hands dirty Bayley? You’re an honorable champion, a commendable one. Do it in the ring and I’ll let you have your pick.

The champion grinned and didn’t hesitate.

Bayley:
Give me Dakota Kai.

And that was that!

And we got started with a match announced on social media earlier this week: After stealing victory at WrestleMania with underhanded tactics, GMNA has forced Logan Paul to put up the United States Championship in a Triple Threat Rematch!

Kevin Owens defeated Logan Paul and Randy Orton to win the WWE United States Championship. A red-hot opener on Smackdown after WrestleMania set off a shocking title change!

The Rock was seen arriving to the building, much to Detroit’s shock and awe. But Rock passed Cody Rhodes’ bus, suggesting the Undisputed Champion was in the Motor City too.

A very Detroit-themed video package played.

Tiffany Stratton def. Zelina Vega. Tiffy could be heard saying Bayley’s name following the victory.

A WrestleMania XL Video Package played.

Asuka def. MiChin. Damage CTRL’s Kairi Sane was at ringside for The Empress, who commentary considered a potential challenger for Bayley.

An unhappy Dakota Kai stewed with Iyo Sky in the background. Kai couldn’t decide whether to be happy that Asuka won or to be dismayed that Bayley picked her, or, if it’s a potential path to knock the champ off.

Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill went to GMNA’s office. After their win over Damage CTRL at WrestleMania, Belair and Cargill told Aldis that they wanted to pursue the Women’s Tag Team Championships. Aldis said that he’s going to “get to work” on that, but said that they might find company in their pursuits. As they wonder what they could mean, Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn appeared. They crept on Bianca and Jade a bit before walking coff, a fascinating warning.

LA Knight came out to cut a promo. Knight said it felt good to win at WrsetleMania and to take down AJ Styles. He said he didn’t have The Phenomenal One out of his view, but he needed to think about bigger and better things. Such as the United States Championship. Such as the King of the Ring, which Knight said he was going to represent Smackdown in. Santos Escobar came out to challenge what Knight said. Escobar said that 2024 was his year and that the King of the Ring was made for him to win. Escobar said that if he faces him in the bracket, he’ll advance, which Knight laughed at, and that eventually led to a match!

LA Knight def. Santos Escobar

Dakota Kai led Damage CTRL along to Gorilla. But Bayley was there waiting for them!! Her and Dakota got into a brief fistfight before the night even began! The champ is out for blood!

Bayley def. Dakota Kai

After the match, Bayley attempted to fend off Damage CTRL who went on the attack! They dragged her out of the ring and began to pummel her on the outside! Iyo got into the ring and directed traffic, wanting the three of them to bring Bayley to her! They gathered her up, but then—

THE ARENA SHOOK​

BECKY LYNCH IS HERE!​

The Man has come around Detroit! She’s seemingly returned the favor that Bayley provided her after things went south on Monday! Lynch goes after Iyo, a fascinating sight, and then starts to take on Asuka, and Dakota, and Kairi! Bayley then gets back in a groove after she grabs a pipe! Reminiscent of the weapon used earlier this year! And she swings it at Kairi and connects! At Dakota and connects as well! She swings at Asuka, who ducks and Iyo goes down and pulls herself and The Empress out! Bayley and Becky hold the ring down as Damage CTRL goes on the retreat!

After a break, Bayley and Becky thank each other for staying by each other’s side. Bayley says that through everything that’s happened over the last ten years, the two of them are the ones standing right now. She said that has to mean something. Lynch wasn’t so certain on Bayley’s astrology, but she felt something similar. Becky said it was good to see her turn it around. They’d been at odds over the past however. Bayley said that was a different version of her, and everyday she’s moving past it. Becky said she could tell and she commended her. Bayley told her that maybe this was the start of a “beautiful friendship.” Lynch laughed, and said it was “overdue.” Bayley said “most things were,” which struck a laugh out of them. And then the two shook hands.

The Man then turned around… to face The Rock. The Great One looked at Lynch, and this time The Man laughed at The Rock. Go figure. Rock seemed annoyed and then walked on out…

The Great One came out and addressed what happened on Monday night. Rock said he sent a message to Seth Freakin’ Rollins that because he was “one of many” responsible for what happened at WrestleMania, he was in their crosshairs “for life.” The Rock said that nobody understood the gravity of what happened at WrestleMania.

Rock said that this was no ordinary title match. Rock said he’s been in big WrestleMania main events before. He’s been in the ring with Stone Cold Steve Austin in three of the business’ most important matches. The Rock said that even those couldn’t compare to what happened on Sunday night. Rock pointed out how long Roman Reigns was champion. He said there hadn’t been a transition of power like that since the 1980s.

Rock said that this was not just any title change. The Final Boss proclaimed that this was the “most unforgiveable and regretful loss in WWE history.” Rock said that this business is in his blood. The Bloodline run WWE. He’s not just talking about now, Rock said, he’s talking about how long this has gone on. Rock talked about his dominance in the 1990s. He talked about his father, and the High Chief Peter Maiava. Rock named damn near EVERYBODY in the Samoan Dynasty, and said that when you think about WWE, and professional wrestling, at some point or another, all roads lead back to them.

So The Rock said that this WrestleMania was supposed to be their coronation. The Rock hinted at “overwhelming power” they would have had if Roman Reigns defeated Cody Rhodes. The Final Boss continued to speak ill of the loss, about as brutally honest as we’ve ever heard him. But then he started to insult the American Nightmare, and that didn’t play well.

Cody Rhodes then made his way out!! The Undisputed WWE Champion walked down the aisle and didn’t flinch as he stood in the same ring as The Final Boss. Rhodes and Rock, two men very alike, shared the spotlight.

Cody said that he took Rock’s Rock Bottom on Monday night as a continuation of the fight between himself and The Bloodline. Rock said that he’d be right to think that. He said that this won’t end until the WWE Championship gets back in their power. Rhodes said that those plans weren’t going to come to fruition, so he better start thinking about a backup plan. Rhodes said that he won the match at WrestleMania. He said that, sure, things were tied up between him and Roman at the Showcase of the Immortals, but that’s business there. Nowhere else.

Rhodes told Rock that while he felt so aggrieved and while his family may be in mourning, his family couldn’t be more the opposite. Through a shit-eating grin, Rhodes talked about how much celebration here’s been around himself, his family, and all of his friends and close ones from over the years. He said he felt his father’s spirit, which drew a big pop. He continued to yuck it up, no doubt intentionally inf ront of Th Rock’s face, rubbing it in and it had to feel good. After all Rhodes had been through, it certainly had to feel good.

Rock told him once again that this does not end until the Bloodline gets what they want. Rock assured Rhodes, just like he did to Rollins, that he’d feel the backlash. Rhodes didn’t seem fazed by Rock’s buzzwords, but The Great One kept talking a great deal about the punishment they were going to receive. But then suddenly, someone hit the ring!​

SETH FREAKIN’ ROLLINS!​

Rollins struck back on The Rock!! Rhodes got himself out of the way while Seth and Rock began to exchange blows in the ring! What an exchange this is!! Rock gained the upper hand but then Rollins came in with a Slingblade!! Rhodes then got into the ring and looked for a measure of revenge on The Rock, positioning his championship in a way that makes it seem like he wants to blow Rock’s head off his shoulders!! Rollins, elsewhere, looked like he wanted to kick Rock’s head into the fifth row!

Rollins converged on The Rock with a shuffle in his direction, Rhodes pursued him with the belt—

Rock moved!

AND ROLLINS BLASTS RHODES IN THE JAW WITH A SUPERKICK!!

OH NO!!!

The Great One is slippery! The Final Boss slid out right in time and he smiled after he realized what happened. Rollins missed his target and angrily looked on at The Rock. Rock made a “this close” gesture with his fingers, and laughed again on his way up. Seth kept his eyes glued to The Rock as he got up to his feet.

Cody, meanwhile, was left to look up at the lights…

END OF SHOW

Quick Match Results
Kevin Owens def. Logan Paul and Randy Orton to win the United States Championship
Tiffany Stratton def. Zelina Vega
Asuka def. MiChin
LA Knight def. Santos Escobar
WWE Women's Champion Bayley def. Dakota Kai​

 

[Stojy]

LOL of course the only promo you've written in full has Bayley in it. Makes complete sense really. Whilst the stuff with Bayley and Becky here was fun, I'm kind of hoping you move away from The Four Horsewomen stuff just because it feels like you've already worked wonders with these girls in a previous universe. A solid bunch of shows to start things off really. I must admit the whole GMAP and GMNA thing is really annoying to read for me. Probably because it makes me think more than I need to.

Highlights for me at the moment are probably your spin on The Rock, and the Rollins inclusion in that picture with Cody. and I'm taking note of the importance Dakota Kai has seemingly taken in week one. This needs to be her BTB.

Like I said, off to a solid start and I'm looking forward to more. Good luck with this mate.

 

[DamageCTRL]

Buzz is starting to get hot that a top AEW talent is jumping ship to WWE. This does not include any names we included last week. Watching this, it could be interesting to see what happens at AEW Dynasty next weekend or potentially Double or Nothing in Las Vegas. WWE is already gaining ground on AEW this year, but landing one of their top stars might hit them where it hurts.

But to that end, that might be work being done out of compensation. A top WWE star and former World Champion informed the company during Mania weekend they intended to leave the company. They will be professional about it but when their contract ends, expect them to land in AEW almost immediately.

WWE has reportedly set its sights on Stephanie Vaquer, who is reportedly also on AEW's radar. Mercedes Mone has reached out about a potential match at Forbidden Door this June, we can report. That may win out in the interim, but we'll see who lands her in a potential bidding war.

While the Bloodline angle simmers after WrestleMania, The Judgment Day and Damage CTRL have been getting a lot of run lately. That is expected to continue while Reigns remains on sabbatical. The Rock is continuing on, a surprise to many within the roster. But he is not considered to be staying for too long. Expect an emphasis on DC and Judgment Day, which may give way to more women joining the popular Raw faction.

Big things are expected out of Dakota Kai this year. She is a potential threat to win the Money in the Bank contract this summer.

Bayley is currently tabbed to wrestle Asuka at Backlash France. There's expected to be a stipulation. Expect a lot of play on their history.

Becky Lynch's recent involvement in the feud is not in the interim. She and Seth Rollins are expected to make a massive move to Smackdown in the upcoming WWE Draft. Lynch will be aligned with Bayley.

Rhea Ripley and Liv Morgan are expected to have their feud heat up. But their match at Backlash France is not expected to be for a championship. A potential mixed tag team match has been pitched between the teams of Ripley and Dominik Mysterio against Morgan and CM Punk. Before knowing Becky and Seth were heading to Smackdown, a 'Winner Take All' match between Lynch, Rollins, Ripley, and Damian Priest was pitched.

I'm told Rhodes' first contender will be a 'shock' to many. Priest's first contender will be a returning wrestler.

Tiffany Stratton has some in her favor, but others think she's still not mature enough to be given the ball yet. Her trajectory will be one to watch. She is expected to wrestle Bayley soon after the tease last week.

Stratton may get a veteran attached to her if they think it's not working out. Right now, she's not currently scheduled for any major programs.

There is some jostling over NXT call-ups but Roxanne Perez and Lyra Valkyria are expected to remain in NXT. The mysterious caper last week is expected to eventually be Cora Jade.

Rollins and The Rock are expected to work Backlash France against each other.

The decision to have Logan Paul drop the United States Championship to Kevin Owens last Friday night came on the heels of "conduct issues" the former champion had WrestleMania weekend. So expect to see him in the doghouse going forward.

The Awesome Truth are not expected to have a long-term run as Tag Team Champions. Austin Theory and Grayson Waller have a higher upside according to many. The company is actively pursuing the Motor City Machine Guns and are expected to relaunch The Street Profits soon. That on top of the fact that the Guerillas of Destiny are reportedly 'on the way..'

Gunther and Iyo Sky are the favorites in creative to win the King and Queen of the Ring next month.​

 

[Stojy]

Dakota Kai... This is her BTB... Most of the notes here make sense, definitely have me intrigued as to who both champs first challengers will be.

 

[Time For Change]

Man you keep going from strength to strength, awesome work so far

 

[DamageCTRL]

Appreciate the early rounds of feedback. Just want to point out something early on here: The way that WWE set up their universe, there are almost an impossible amount of stories that I'll have to put my own creative spin on things. I like this, because it challenges me.

What I will also add is that a lot of these early recaps are going to show which ideas I have started to really turn into high gear. Not surprisingly you've seen the Damage CTRL stuff go up. As hot as that angle was, in my opinion, there's still so much to be done. So I'm putting my own unique spin on that tale. Expect it to go on pretty long here. Talking 2025 and beyond.

We're not ending The Bloodline anytime soon. You'll eventually see the same characters you do on TV right now. Be patient with me while I act procedurally here. I think that by SummerSlam I'll have my own twist on everything here.

Monday Night Raw​

April 15, 2024
Montreal, Quebec, Canada

CM Punk began this episode of Monday Night Raw from Montreal. Punk received a massive ovation rom the fans. Punk said that he came calling tonight with incredible news: He’s cleared!

Punk wasn’t kidding; that was massive news! Punk waltzed around the ring and ran down the list of things that he wanted to do and one of them was try to enter the King of the Ring Tournament! How fascinating! Punk kept talking but then the mood changed.

THE JUDGMENT DAY ARRIVED!

Specifically, we saw Rhea Ripley, Dominik Mysterio, and Finn Balor! The trio walked to the ring where Punk was more than happy to stand and share. Balor got on the mic and talked with disgust towards Punk. He said that last week, they got upstaged by Cody Rhodes, and now CM Punk is out here doing the same thing. That’s why Finn said they were quick to come out here, because they weren’t going to stand for it.

Punk got chatty quickly and bantered back with Finn. He questioned his leadership, suggesting Rhea allowed him to talk, and wondered where the World Champion was. Punk said that he had to make sure he got his thanks, since he was part of why Damian Priest won the World Heavyweight Championship last Sunday at WrestleMania.

Finn talked back to Punk and told him that a lot has changed over the last ten years. Finn said that this year is his tenth year in WWE and he’s done a great job without Punk around and doesn’t feel all the hype and energy everyone else does. Finn told Punk that he might want to get into the King of the Ring Tournament but to do that, he’s going to have to go through The Judgment Day one way or another!

Punk returned fire and said that he knew the scene and knew what it took to get to the top. Punk said if he had to go through all of them, he most certainly would. Then, suddenly, the Women’s World Champion turned her head while the crowd started buzzing. Why?

Liv Morgan just crashed the party!! Morgan dives into the ring and dove right at Ripley!! Obviously she didn’t appreciate what happened last week, when she couldn’t get a piece of Ripley in the main event!! Punk grabbed Liv and pulled her away while The Judgment Day retreated themselves. Punk and Morgan held off while Liv angrily looked at Ripley. She then took the mic that Punk offered her. Liv told Ripley that she and Damage CTRL were going to pay! She told to her watch her and slammed the mic down. Sometimes the best points are made succinctly.

After the intense segment, General Manager Adam Pearce told The Judgment Day that they invited the situation last week by scheming to attack Liv Morgan. Nobody told them to do that. Pearce told them that tonight, there was going to be another special attraction tag team match. He told the three of them that they’d team up to face Liv Morgan, CM Punk, and Montreal’s own, the Intercontinental Champion Sami Zayn! WOW!!

Becky Lynch def. Chelsea Green. Lynch won with the Manhandle Slam. Green went down to ringside without Piper Niven, who will be wrestling later tonight. Following the match, Becky mocked “Mami” after what happened a few moments ago.

A fun vignette aired, announcing the return of…

ALEXA BLISS! NEXT WEEK IN COLUMBUS!

Damage CTRL walked to Gorilla and proclaimed they had a major declaration coming this Friday. Dakota Kai told Bayley to pay close attention…

Damage CTRL def. Ivy Nile and Maxxine Dupri. Shayna Baszler and Zoey Stark were seen at ringside during the match, as were KC-Squared. Kairi Sane pinned Maxxine Dupri after hitting the In-Sane Elbow. Kairi teamed with Dakota Kai, while Asuka and Iyo Sky stood at ringside.

CM Punk talked to Liv Morgan backstage. Morgan apologized for interrupting Punk, but explained that Ripley has made her life hell over the last two years. Fortunately, The Second City Saint understood 100%. Punk said it wasn’t a problem, and he knows right now what it’s like to want to go after somebody who put him on the shelf. So they have a lot in common. Morgan responded saying that two people driven like this is a dangerous combination, and Punk said he did prefer danger.

Cathy Kelley interviewed Tegan Nox, who scored the pinfall in last week’s 10-woman tag team match. Kelley asked Nox if she felt this would be the start of something. Before she could do anything, Candice LeRae approached her. LeRae said that last week was impressive to her. Candice said that she’s always respected Tegan, especially with all she’s been through. Nox asked her to get to it, and LeRae politely told her to ease off. LeRae offered her a chance to win the Women’s Tag Team Championships with her! That surprised Nox, given that Candice is pals with Indi. Nox raised that point, but LeRae told her that she knew she’d bring that up, and she offered her a chance to get lunch tomorrow to “explain more.” Nox reluctantly declined, and said she had to focus on her match tonight. Disappointed, LeRae looked on.

Jey Uso def. Ludwig Kaiser. Commentary tossed Uso’s name around as a potential King of the Ring winner. Jey won with the Uso Splash after a back-and-forth affair.

Damian Priest held court in The Judgment Day hangout and once again laid down the law. He told the three members that were participating in the main event to get their heads on straight. Last week was one thing, but Priest said this week would be another. He challenged Dom and Finn to make a statement tonight and try to beat Sami Zayn in his hometown of Montreal. While he didn’t say what would happen if they didn’t, Priest’s intimidation was present. Ripley, meanwhile, remained stewing over Liv getting one up on her.

DIY def. The New Day in a lengthy encounter. Gargano pinned Woods at the end. This was an outstanding tag team match that brought out a lot from both teams.

Becky Lynch was seen encouraging Ivy Nile and Maxxine Dupri following their defeat earlier tonight. Lynch then continued on before she ran into Damage CTRL’s Dakota Kai. Lynch didn’t looked thrilled to see Kai at all. Dakota told Becky that they didn’t appreciate her surprise appearance last Friday on Smackdown. Dakota told The Man that she has “no idea” why she did that to help Bayley, especially after all she’s done.

Lynch told Dakota that she knew she wouldn’t understand because she hasn’t lived a day in her life where she’s had anybody’s back. Kai defended herself, stammering, but Lynch told her that she’s seen her entire career. She knows she’s just for hire until the next opportunity comes up. If she doesn’t believe that, Lynch says, then she can ask what happened to Bayley. Lynch promised Dakota that she hadn’t seen the last of her.

Andrade and Rey Mysterio def. Alpha Academy. Mysterio and Andrade won in relatively short order over Otis and Tozawa.

El Campeon, Damian Priest, joined us at the start of Hour #3. Priest said that from his standing as World Heavyweight Champion, everyone else doesn’t seem like they’re gonna be that guy. Except for him, of course. Priest said that everyone has their sights set on the King of the Ring, but nobody seems to want a piece of El Campeon. Priest said that clearly showed the kind of intimidation and fear that he has put on his show.

Sure enough, that elicited a reaction from someone who hadn’t been on the show – Sheamus!! The Celtic Warrior is back!! Sheamus went down to the ring and confronted the World Heavyweight Champion. Sheamus said it’d been a while since he’d been back here in WWE, but he said that things still feel the same. Especially on Raw, where Priest and The Judgment Day, in Sheamus’ eyes, are maintaining the status quo.

Sheamus said he’d love nothin’ more than to come back and change that. Sheamus said Priest cashed in his briefcase and won the World Title. Sheamus said he did that too. Priest said he made a WrestleMania moment, but so did Sheamus at WrestleMania 28. Wink wink. So Sheamus said that he and Priest were a lot alike. But Sheamus said that while he could some day respect Damian Priest, he hasn’t beaten him yet. And since he’s been around the block for as long as he has, Sheamus feels he has the right to call the shots, so he challenges Priest for the title!!

Priest gets in Sheamus’ face. He told The Celtic Warrior that he may think that they’re alike, but they couldn’t be more different. Priest said that he’s just getting started with his career, while Sheamus is on the downswing. He said he’s won his first World Title, while Sheamus is DONE winning championships. Priest told Sheamus that he was ON, which stirred up quite the response! And we’ve got a big match on tap!

GMAP made it OFFICIAL: At Backlash France, Damian Priest will defend the World Heavyweight Championship against Sheamus!

Tegan Nox def. Piper Niven. Candice LeRae watched the match from the top of the stage. Nox played from behind for much of the match, but avoided the Banzai Drop and then blasted Niven with the Shining Wizard. A gutty win.

Iyo Sky told Dakota Kai that their plan “wouldn’t fail” and Kai agreed. She said she “took care of business” and then the dangerous faction left the building.

GMAP made it official: Next week, DIY would take on Andrade and Rey Mysterio for the right to face Awesome Truth for the World Tag Team Championships.

The Judgment Day and our collective of babyfaces had back-to-back segments hyping themselves up. One team sounded much more confident than the other.

CM Punk, Liv Morgan, and Sami Zayn def. The Judgment Day. This was a hoot and a holler. Zayn earned the hot tag and caught fire. Liv got one over on Rhea after drilling her with the Women’s World Title belt on the outside. Punk worked a lot with Finn and the two worked sharp. Zayn pinned Dom after connecting on the Helluva Kick.

END OF SHOW

Quick Match Results
Becky Lynch def. Chelsea Green
Damage CTRL def. Ivy Nile and Maxxine Duprii
Jey Uso def. Ludwig Kaiser
DIY def. The New Day
Andrade and Rey Mysterio def. Alpha Academy
Tegan Nox def. Piper Niven
CM Punk, Liv Morgan, and Sami Zayn def. The Judgment Day​

 

[Stojy]

Probably my favourite episode so far. Liked A LOT of what you did on this episode.

Punk/Judgment Day stuff feels fresh and fun, which in turn keeps the basically done to death in real life Liv/Rhea stuff fine for another week, and pairing Sami with them in his hometown was just smart booking. When I say Liv/Rhea is done to death, it's not a criticism because I know you have to continue the story, but after watching it for the better part of nine months, it's going to take some serious trickery from you to keep me interested.

For some reason, Sheamus didn't pop into my head but I do like him as a first choice opponent for Priest. Keeping the World Title as the work rate title works for me. Andrade/Mysterio vs. DIY should be a banger next week to.

Finally, we're still a fair distance away, but it's a massive positive from me that wrestlers have already got their eyes on the KOTR.

Oh and you're clearly pumped for your Dmg Ctrl angle based on what you've written at top of this show and discord, but it was a relatively minor Raw for them. Hinting for bigger things. Again though, love the prominence of Kai. Have Kai retire Becky please.

 

[DamageCTRL]

NXT
April 16, 2024
Winter Park, Florida

General Manager Ava opened the show announcing that Lyra Valkyria will be out “indefinitely” after fracturing her arm last week during Roxanne Perez’s attack on the former champion. Ava acknowledged that there was a masked assailant who seemed to be an accomplice, but no one could track them down.

Jaida Parker def. Izzi Dame. Parker and Dame had a confrontation several hours before the show began that led to this match

Trick Williams was seen arriving to the building. Commentary promised that he’d be in action later tonight.

Sol Ruca def. Gigi Dolin

Jacy Jayne complained to Ava that she wasn’t involved in last week’s tag team match again. Ava apparently had been hearing these complaints for the last week. Lola Vice, also in the room, told Jayne, much like Parker, that maybe she should put her money where her mouth is and beat the new No. 1 contender if she thinks she has a say. Ava thought that was a tremendous idea, so she made a match for tonight: Tatum Paxley versus Jacy Jayne.

Meta-Four and No-Quarter Catch Crew defeated Edris Enofe, Malik Blade, and Hank and Tank Walker

A Je’Von Evans vignette aired, hyping up the up-and-comer

Duke Hudson encouraged Riley Osborne backstage after their loss last week. Shawn Spears rudely decided to discourage Osborne, which nearly led to some action. Spears backed off for now but Osborne clearly had him in his sights.

Trick Williams def. Lexis King

After the match, Williams cut a promo and challenged Carmelo Hayes to a match next week!! Melo appeared on the balcony and told him that, like always, Hayes was “above” Williams. Hayes said he had zero issue but wanted to raise the stakes: Hayes bartered for the #1 Contendership to Ilja Dragunov’s NXT Championship! Trick said he’d go talk to Ava because it was a “hell” of an idea.

Jacy Jayne once again interacted backstage with Jaida Parker. Ms. Parker told Jayne she needed to focus on her match tonight, but Jayne took issue with the way she beat Izzi. Jaida said that if she took so much issue, much like she could do tonight, she should do something about it.

Tatum Paxley received encouragement in the back from some of the up-and-comers in the division. Arianna Grace wanted to support her, so she said, but she was “creeped out” by Paxley. Karmen Petrovic told her that was unfair. Grace pointed out several times that Pax had frightened her before, only for her to be slightly frightened again after finding her behind her. “How did she get there?” she wondered. Well, it’s a small room, Arianna…

Tatum Paxley def. Jacy Jayne. Jaida Parker came out to taunt Jayne, which wound up being her undoing

Josh Briggs def. an NIL rookie. Briggs said he wanted the North American Championship and told Oba Femi he wanted him at Spring Breakin’. We all want a lot of things, we’ll see if Briggs gets what he wants

Jacy Jayne and Jaida Parker nearly came to blows backstage. Jazmyn Nyx then came from behind to cheapshot Parker, and then ran off with Jayne.

Fraxiom def. Baron Corbin and Bron Breakker to win the NXT Tag Team Championships

END OF SHOW​

 

[Stojy]

Doesn't feel like a hell of a lot to comment on for NXT this week. Just a solid, procedural like show as you've mentioned yourself. I'm down for bad ass Jaida Parker playing a tweener role and taking out the mean girls in here.