WWE ~ Way It Should've Gone (SUMMERSLAM 2018: Christian v. Edge)

[Finishline]

JUNE 26 2018 ~ TUESDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!​

SmackDown usually starts with an in-ring segment, but up first, it is tag team action to kick off SmackDown as Big Show returns to the ring to join forces with Jeff Hardy against the Maple Leaf Mafia.

Big Show and Jeff Hardy vs. Maple Leaf Mafia
Big Show begins the match using his size and power over MLM, but once Hardy gets in, they turn the tide quickly and gang up on the Charismatic Enigma. Hardy makes a hot tag and Big Show comes in, showing he still has it, before Breeze lands a Superkick followed by a Beauty Shot. Breeze makes the cover but Hardy comes in with a Swanton Bomb to break up the pin! Hardy and Dillinger square up before Hardy comes out on top with a Twist of Fate. Hardy then races back to the corner, seeing Big Show crawling as Hardy gets a tag and goes up for a second Swanton Bomb on Breeze to secure a big win.

As Jeff Hardy and Big Show get to their feet, Renee Young meets them in the ring to get an instant reaction. Renee asks how Big Show feels about being back in the ring and he says his days in the ring are numbered, but he'll always come even the score for his friends. Renee asks what's next for Hardy, and he recalls a couple weeks ago when Maple Leaf Mafia cost him the Intercontinental Championship. Hardy calls out Neville for the title!

After the commercial, Charlotte comes to the ring and says there's a lot to be said about her match in two weeks at Great American Bash. Charlotte says her dad made some memories at the event, as did Tessa Blanchard's. Charlotte says this match was a long time coming, but what's inevitable, is she winning the Matrons Championship and becoming a champion in WWE for a fifth time. Matrons Champion Tessa Blanchard heads out to remind Charlotte that there's one solid difference between them: Tessa's outshined her father, but Charlotte will always be in her daddy's shadow. Charlotte nods before going to smack Tessa, before Blanchard counters with a Magnum attempt, but Charlotte eludes it and gets out of dodge. Blanchard raises her title on high ground as the match is two weeks away.

WWE Universal Champion Christian barges into Kurt Angle's office, demanding that it's not fair he competes when he still has headaches from the Dirty Deeds two weeks away. Christian says with all the neck issues he's had, you think Angle would be more considerate. Angle tells Christian he's completely fine, the tests came back negative, and he's defending the title tonight. Christian asks to wait for Great American Bash, and while Angle says he will defend his title then, but only if he successfully defends it tonight against Dean Ambrose. Christian says if he has issues, Angle will be the first one he sues as he storms out.

Sami Zayn vs. The Miz
In a rematch from a few weeks ago, Zayn and Miz are going at it. Zayn avoids the Skull Crushing Finale and instead hits a snapmare suplex. Zayn then measures up for a Helluva Kick and as he's about to charge to the center of the ring, the lights go out. When they come back on, Zayn's head is held by Erick Rowan and is hit with a Mandible Claw Slam and the official calls for the bell.

Bray Wyatt is in his signature rocking chair ringside as he observes Erick Rowan in the ring. Rowan stands tall over Zayn as The Miz can't make of it, and one bad look from Rowan sends Miz running through the crowd. Rowan steps on Zayn's sternum as he raises his fist and Bray applauds from the rocking chair.

Renee Young asks Intercontinental Champion Neville of Jeff Hardy's challenge from earlier. Neville claims he set on a quest to become the greatest champion of all-time. Neville says if Jeff Hardy is on that stepping stool, he'll squash him. Neville says he wants no excuses, so he ups the ante - in a Steel Cage at The Great American Bash!

Akam w/Rezar vs. Scott Dawson w/Dash Wilder
Following their partners clashing last week, Dawson and Akam went at it tonight. Akam was throwing Dawson around and constantly going outside to Wilder for timeouts, and one time that Akam went after Wilder, he was pushed into the steel by Dawson and evened the odds. Dawson wears Akam down and towards the end, Dawson has Akam in a Figure Four and is using obstructed view to hold Wilder's hands. Rezar was livid and goes over to take Wilder out, but Dawson hits a baseball slide to take Rezar out. Dawson gets back in the ring and Akam nearly powerslams Dawson, but Dawson flows from the back and rolls Akam up. The official counts as Wilder helps Dawson with leverage behind his back.

Scott Dawson pins Akam! The Revival get out of dodge quickly after getting a big win over Akam and one over the WWE Tag Team Champions.

Backstage, Renee Young interviews Cesaro about trying to get a second win over Sheamus tonight and the interview is interrupted by an attack by the Celtic Warrior. The two brawl to ringside and their match kicks off early.

Cesaro vs. Sheamus
Getting a head start, both took punishment before the bell, and in particular Cesaro got a back body drop into the steel steps by Sheamus. As they go hard with their strikes, it's Cesaro getting taken out with a Brogue Kick by Sheamus to put him down as The Celtic Warrior gets revenge on Cesaro for defeating him at No Mercy.

Kurt Angle invites Jason Jordan in his office. Angle tells Jordan he is very impressed with him and know he's the future of the business, as in Chad Gable when he gets back. Angle tells Jordan he called in a favor and now he's scheduled in a match for The Great American Bash. It'll be Jason Jordan, one-on-one, with John Cena! Jordan looks worried and nervous as Angle places his hand on Jason's shoulder and reminds the young kid that he gave Cena his rub when he started, and while Cena didn't win, he put up a fight and become one of the GOATs of the business. Angle tells Jordan he sees the same young GOAT in Jordan. Angle tells Jordan to get ready and be proud.

Carmella vs. Peyton Royce
After their tag team match last week, the two go one-on-one and it's Carmella using the Code of Silence forcing Peyton to tap out.

Renee Young stands by with Dean Ambrose moments before his WWE Universal Championship match against Christian. Ambrose says Christian's dodged him every opportunity he's gotten, and since he tasted the top of the mountain so briefly before Kevin Owens ruined it, he's wanted more. Tonight, he gets more, and then he'll defend the title against whoever at The Great American Bash because he will be a fighting champion and not a p****. Production barely bleeps out the word as Ambrose goes towards the curtain.

Tom Phillips and Corey Graves mention the big matches of The Great American Bash confirmed tonight, including Jason Jordan versus John Cena for the first time ever. Plus, after putting Maple Leaf Mafia behind him, Jeff Hardy has a Steel Cage match against Neville for the Intercontinental Championship. Yet next week, Sami Zayn faces Erick Rowan following his attack earlier tonight. Also breaking news, John Cena will be LIVE next week on SmackDown! This will be Cena's first appearance since being drafted to SmackDown and since he lost to Randy Orton inside Hell in a Cell at Vengeance.

Christian(c) vs. Dean Ambrose for the WWE Universal Championship
Ambrose finally gets his hands on Christian once the bell rings and he goes to town. Ambrose senses the title in his grasps and he gets close with a Dirty Deeds, but Christian continues avoiding it. Things even out and Christian and Ambrose are battling on the top rope before Christian prevents a superplex and pushes Ambrose down and hits a frog splash, but only getting a 2 count. Christian tries for a Killswitch, but Ambrose pushes Christian away and turns him inside out with a clothesline. Ambrose begins getting momentum and sets up for Dirty Deeds when Triple H's music hits. Ambrose and the official look to the ramp as Triple H comes out in street clothes with a sledgehammer in hand. Triple H storms down the ramp when Ambrose gets low-blowed from behind and hit with a Killswitch as Christian grabs the ref's attention and he pins Ambrose.

Christian celebrates and gets handed the WWE Universal Championship as he rests in the corner and Triple H gets in the ring. Christian's music stops as Triple H looks to the champion. Christian rolls out of the ring and gets a microphone, letting everyone know that now he's defended the title, he'll see everyone in 30 days. Triple H is pissed and demands the mic as Christian backs up the ramp, and Triple H elaborates on the deal Christian made him. Triple H said the deal was to prevent Ambrose from getting the title, and facing The Game for the title at The Great American Bash. Christian denies that before Kurt Angle's music hits. Angle asks if this is true, and Triple H is persistent. Angle makes the title match official for The Great American Bash. Christian will defend the title against Triple H... and because of tonight, Dean Ambrose! Both Christian and Triple H are upset, but Triple H has no time to argue because he's turned around and dropped with Dirty Deeds! Dean Ambrose's music hits as he stands tall over Triple H after securing one more title opportunity after being screwed by Triple H and Christian tonight.

 

[Finishline]

NXT Updates (Wednesday):

Kona Reeves gets a big win over Tucker Knight in the opener.

Otis Dozier and Powerhouse Hobbs defeat Kaluka Maiava and Ku Mahana once again, as Mahana and Maiava were adamant before the night that they'll remain together and want the Guerrillas of Destiny later.

Dijak puts down Rich Swann.

The Clink go to send a message to the locker room after interrupting matches for several weeks. But the unified front of Ember Moon, Chelsea Green, and NXT Women's Champion Kairi Sane come out and challenge The Clink to a match next week, and it's accepted! The Clink will be in action for the first time next week.

After Josh Woods and Tom Lawlor put away Harada and Kodama, it's confirmed they'll have a title shot against Cedric Alexander and Moose next week.

Adam Cole challenges NXT Champion Pete Dunne for the title and after the official goes down, Dunne is attacked by Tama Tonga and Tevita Loa before Cole hits a Shining Wizard and after awaking the official, Cole gets the cover and wins the NXT Title as the first ever 2-time NXT Champion as Cole, Tonga, and Loa celebrate as NXT goes off the air.


CWC Updates (Thursday):

An hour is dedicated to hyping up next week's Cruiserweight Classic finale, which will crown a WWE Cruiserweight Champion between Ace Austin and Trey Miguel. Plus, there's free advertising towards the debuting 205 Live that premieres on July 26th with these stars confirmed for the roster, along with Austin and Miguel who have officially signed:
Ariya Daivari
El Hijo del Fantasma
Flip Gordon
Gran Metalik
Jack Gallagher
Kip Sabian
Kushida
Mansoor
Marty Scurll
Mustafa Ali
Raul Mendoza
Roderick Strong
Rohit Raju
Sammy Guevara
Shane Strickland
TJ Perkins
Tony Nese
Tyler Bate
Zema Ion

The announced card for next week is as follows:

Rohit Raju debuts versus TJ Perkins
Flip Gordon vs. Sammy Guevara
Jack Gallagher vs. Kushida
Kip Sabian & Marty Scurll vs. Mansoor & Mustafa Ali
Ace Austin vs. Trey Miguel in the CWC Finals for the Cruiserweight Championship

Tune in next Thursday for a 2-hour special to see these matchups, including Ace Austin versus Trey Miguel for the Cruiserweight Championship.​

 

[Finishline]

Of the three men who debuted alongside Viktor at the end of Raw, it can be confirmed the druids were Aleister Black and Damian Priest. Unfortunately, the impostor Kane identity is unknown and could be revealed at a later time. We're being told Black and Priest have skipped NXT and have moved to the Monday Night Raw roster.
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Randy Orton was written off of Raw this week by saying he needs to take care of himself and heal from the last couple of months. It's uncertain when Orton will return to WWE programming.
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You may have noticed Brie Bella has not been seen on TV since May 28th. She announced this week she is expecting her first child and will be stepping away from the ring. Her due date is early 2019. There's no word whether this will affect Nikki Bella or Daniel Bryan's dates moving forward.
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It's been confirmed this week that Ace Austin and Trey Miguel have officially signed with WWE and will be apart of 205 Live headed into the Cruiserweight Classic finale.
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According to rumors, 205 Live will not be an exclusive roster. The people on that roster are free and likely to show up on other WWE programming, as well as vice versa. However, there's a big understanding the most crossover will happen with NXT and possibly see some talents move over from NXT to be apart of 205 Live's launch.
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WWE is currently trying to secure several big names from the tournament. It's been reported that Bandido, Darius Lockhart, and Dragon Azteca Jr have all been reached out to for contracts for 205 Live. It's already been noted that Kota Ibushi and Will Ospreay have been pursued hard with lucrative deals, but neither have expressed much interest relocating to the states to be with WWE full-time.
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WWE have signed The Brian Kendrick, Paul London, and Taka Michinoku. It's not been understood if they would be on the active roster or in other roles. Kendrick and London were on the show Thursday night to analyze the tournament and the card for next week's Cruiserweight Classic finale.
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Rumors suggest Austin Aries was scheduled to be on the show but was sent home early after failing to see eye-to-eye with NXT writers. It's rumored he was supposed to lose to Kona Reeves in the opener, but it ended up being Tucker Knight with no sight of Aries on the show.

No update on Aries and his status with NXT, nor if this is true.​

 

[Finishline]

JULY 2 2018 ~ MONDAY NIGHT RAW​

Raw begins with a replay of last week's close to the show that including Viktor with two druids revealed and an imposter Kane laying out the real Big Red Monster. Michael Cole and Paul Heyman can't wait to see who these men are but Raw kicks off with in-ring action of Finn Balor against Luke Harper.

Finn Balor vs. Luke Harper
Harper wastes no time getting this rematch from Balor from last week, but it ends in the same way with Balor hitting Coup de Grace to beat Harper.

After the match, Harper attacks Balor from behind and beats him down before Jordan Devlin rushes down and lays into Harper with several kicks and strikes before trying to take him down with an Ireland's Call but Harper pushes Devlin away to create enough space to leave. Jordan Devlin, whose rights were claimed by Raw in the Draft, is here on Raw and hugs Balor, reuniting with his mentor.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman highlight tonight's episode with a #1 contender's match between Mickie James and Becky Lynch, a six-man tag team match, and a main event that's confirmed for tonight: Baron Corbin and Cody Rhodes versus Emperor Roman Reigns and WWE Champion Kevin Owens. But what they're looking forward to more than anything is Viktor will be in the ring with his new arrivals to speak about last week.

Elias Samson is stopped by Charly Caruso who asks about the woman who's left with Elias two weeks in a row, but he avoids that question and says tonight he has a rematch from Extreme Rules against Shinsuke Nakamura and he doesn't feel like losing a second time to the King of Strong Style.

Emma vs. Nikki Bella
After last week's news of Nikki's twin sister Brie being pregnant, she dedicates this match to Brie, but Emma plays spoiler by hitting an Emma Sandwich and following up with the Emma Lock, forcing Nikki to tap out as the crowd is stunned by the upset.

The Aristocrat Cartel is arguing in the back with Ortiz and Santana telling Alberto Del Rio to not bother coming to ringside tonight when they team with Bobby Lashley to face Matt Hardy and The Usos. This match is up next after the commercial.

Bobby Lashley, Ortiz, and Santana vs. Matt Hardy and The Usos
Ortiz and Santana are working well together against The Usos, though a few mess-ups but once Lashley got the hot tag, Jey tags in Matt and the two battle. Matt Hardy and Bobby Lashley go to war and then the tag teams fight it out. Lashley goes to put Matt away with a Spear, but Matt catches Lashley with a small package. Lashley barely kicks out but gets up in a Twist of Fate and Matt quickly covers before Ortiz can make the save.

The bell rings and Matt Hardy's pinned the United States Champion! The Usos pick up Hardy and celebrate with him, signaling that Matt's time has come to win the United States title.
Charly Caruso asks Becky Lynch what the opportunity tonight means to her to potentially challenge Paige for the Women's Championship if she beats Mickie, but Becky says she can't overlook someone like Mickie. Lynch recalls being a 3-time Matrons Champion on SmackDown but has come to Raw to take over here as well. Becky says tonight is just the next step.

Viktor heads to the ring with the urn in hand and the two men revealed last week, but not the impostor Kane. Viktor introduces Aleister Black and Damian Priest, two demons he met on his journey. Viktor calls himself a visionary and the Modern Day Apostle. Viktor says the WWE Universe is well aware of the power the urn possesses, and so does Kane. Viktor says Kane is a part of the past and The Fallen is the future.

Finn Balor and Jordan Devlin are rejoicing backstage for being reunited, remembering the hoops they had to jump through with The Authority in charge. Devlin is officially apart of Raw, breaking the news he signed this morning. Luke Harper interrupts and shoves Balor, saying he isn't through with him yet. Devlin then steps in and tells Harper he is finished with them. Harper shakes his head and tells Devlin to bring his boots next week for a match, as Devlin now has a tall task for his official in-ring Raw debut since being signed.

Elias Samson vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
Nakamura continues his hot streak, the opposite of Elias, as a Kinshasa gives the King of Strong Style a victory.

Alberto Del Rio awaits Ortiz and Santana in the back, saying he told them so, that the leader wasn't the issue. Santana points out they still didn't get pinned, it was Del Rio. Del Rio then says he'll prove he is worthy of being the leader to the WWE Trios Championships, saying he'll beat Xavier Woods to prove it, the same guy who did pin Del Rio at Extreme Rules.

Becky Lynch vs. Mickie James
With Paige joining Heyman and Cole for commentary as an unbiased third voice, the Women's Champion watches on for Lynch and James who are trying to fight for a #1 contender's match. Towards the end, Becky is ready for the Dis-arm-her after hitting the Bex-Plex when she's attacked with the crowbar, it's Rubi Riot! Rubi goes clubbing Lynch as the official calls for the bell.

As soon as Rubi begins going to town on Lynch, Paige throws her headset down and the champion storms the ring. Paige runs Rubi out of the ring and the champion stands her ground, saving James and Lynch from a beatdown by the jealous, unhinged Rubi Riot.

Elias Samson is doing the walk of shame through the halls when he gets a phone call. He answers and after saying "I'll be right there" he hangs up. Charly Caruso catches part of the call and asks Elias who it was. Elias says it's none of her business, and when she speculates that it's Scarlett, Elias doubles down to keep his privacy.

Alberto Del Rio w/The Aristocrat Cartel vs. Xavier Woods w/The New Day
Del Rio's accompanied by Santana and Ortiz, but as Woods gains steam, the two walk out on Del Rio. This further distracts Del Rio and Woods hits a spinning DDT and goes for a springboard elbow drop, which is countered in the Cross Armbreaker. Woods has nowhere to go and despite Big E and Kofi rooting him on, Woods has no choice but to tap.

Alberto Del Rio gets up arrogantly celebrating his win over one-third of the WWE Trios Champions, despite Ortiz and Santana walking out on him.

Matt Hardy is hanging out with The Usos backstage and Hardy thanks Jimmy and Jey for their help tonight when JBL walks up to the trio. JBL congratulates them, and has some news for Matt. JBL informs him of a title match next week. After he pinned Lashley tonight, he's got a 1-on-1 match with him for the United States Championship. Matt thanks JBL and The Usos say they'll be in his corner for that one, hyping Matt up for a big opportunity.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman react to the United States Championship match made for next week in addition to Jordan Devlin facing Luke Harper in his first match as a Raw superstar. Plus, Viktor and "The Fallen" will be back to discuss the history of the urn. They're interrupted by Emperor Roman Reigns. Reigns gets on the mic and says he's been butting heads with Baron Corbin for some time now, so he wants it to be made perfectly clear: Corbin will keep his nose out of his business after this tag team match tonight.

Baron Corbin and Cody Rhodes vs. Emperor Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens
When Corbin and Reigns hooked up, it was electric but Owens avoided Rhodes most of the match. Towards the end, Owens and Corbin are down. Corbin hot tags Cody, and Owens can't get to Reigns in time. Cody knocks Reigns off the apron and goes hard on the WWE Champion. Reigns jumps on Rhodes and Corbin responds by picking Owens up and brawling outside the ring and through the crowd. Back in the ring, Cody tries hitting a Disaster Kick but Owens ducks and tries hitting a Popup Powerbomb, but Cody counters in a DDT! Cody gets up simultaneously as Owens and hits the Disaster Kick, hooking the leg, and pinning Owens!

Cody Rhodes has pinned the WWE Champion! Cody's music hits as the camera shows Corbin and Reigns still brawling through the crowd and up to the concession stand as Rhodes basks in a big win over the WWE Champion, perhaps foreshadowing what can happen at Stomping Grounds as Raw comes to a close tonight.

 

[Finishline]

JULY 3 2018 ~ TUESDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!​

SmackDown begins tonight with a quick rundown of The Great American Bash this Sunday, while looking ahead to tonight's show which includes all three competitors in the WWE Universal Championship match in the ring later tonight: challengers Dean Ambrose and Triple H along with champion Christian. But up now, Sami Zayn looks for revenge over Erick Rowan.

Sami Zayn vs. Erick Rowan w/Bray Wyatt
Wyatt is coaching Rowan on as Zayn is picking up the pace and Wyatt wants Rowan to slow it down. Wyatt eventually gets involved physically by grabbing Zayn's ankle, distracting the official, and Rowan takes over. Towards the end, Zayn gets momentum back and has Rowan in the corner, ready to hit the Helluva Kick but Wyatt slides in and throws his body into Zayn.

The official calls for the bell and Bray is hammering rights down on Zayn before getting up, ready to go to war. Wyatt shouts at Rowan who grabs a table. All of a sudden the lights go out, and they come back on dim. Smoke and dim red lights emerge and the music hits... "I'm the BOOGEYMAN and I'm comin to GETCHA." Wyatt and Rowan freeze as Boogeyman creeps into the arena with a glass clock in his head. Boogeyman slithers in and Wyatt stares him down. The lights come on and Wyatt laughs, dropping to his knees. Wyatt tells Boogeyman he's home and Rowan is staring on, still standing outside the ring. Zayn comes to and sees what's going on. Boogeyman backs Zayn up into the corner and Wyatt's laugh is halted by a CLOCK SMASH! Boogeyman clocks Bray! Rowan sees this and gets inside the ring but Boogeyman holds up a handful of worms, keeping Rowan at bay who drops back to the floor. Rowan helps Wyatt, who rolls outside the ring, and those two leave as Boogeyman seems mesmerized by Zayn as SmackDown goes to commercial.

After the commercial, Corey Graves and Tom Phillips are still trying to gather thoughts about what happened before the break. Boogeyman, who was drafted to SmackDown as a prospect, has arrived. But tonight, John Cena is in the building and six days before her title defense, Tessa Blanchard is up against Carmella who challenged the champion this past weekend on social media.

Jeff Hardy comes to the ring and says he's looking forward to Sunday, not because he'll be Intercontinental Champion again, but he'll be competing inside a Steel Cage. Hardy says there will be no distractions and wants a fair match, but he loves jumping off the cage. The crowd cheers before the self-proclaimed "Silver Medalist" Michael Bennett heads down with his wife Maria and they tell Hardy he's not winning this Sunday, and might as well give up his spot to him. Hardy laughed and Bennett dared Hardy to put the title match on the line. When Hardy listened to the fans who shouted no, Maria came up and slapped the taste out of Hardy's mouth. Jeff nodded and tossed his shirt in Michael's face before attacking him. An official runs down for the match up next.

Jeff Hardy vs. Michael Bennett w/Maria
The Charismatic Enigma holds onto his title opportunity this Sunday by hitting a Twist of Fate and winning the match.

After the match, Hardy looks at the Steel Cage hanging from the rafters and calls for it to come down. Hardy stomps at Bennett a few times before he climbs the top rope and up to the top corner of the cage. As Hardy's about to get set for a Swanton Bomb, Neville grabs Jeff Hardy's attention. The Intercontinental Champion speaks from the titantron and warns Jeff about what's happening this Sunday. Neville says he's no stranger to the air either, but it won't be smart to dive back in the ring. Neville tells Jeff if he ever gets that distance, he needs to get out of the cage. Neville tells Hardy he won't be running, he'll want to submit Jeff in the cage. As Neville's talking, Michael Bennett is revived and grabs Jeff's arm and pulls Jeff off the cage and to the mat, hitting real hard. The officials call for the cage to be raised to get to Jeff Hardy as Bennett leaves with the last laugh.

Backstage, Cesaro and Sheamus are arguing and this turns into a fist fight that's broken up by various bystanders backstage. Kurt Angle shouts them down and says both men have each won a match, so it will be Cesaro versus Sheamus this Sunday at The Great American Bash - and there must be a winner!

Jason Jordan heads to the ring. Jordan recognizes the biggest test of his career, a one-on-one match with John Cena this Sunday. As Jordan doubts him winning, John Cena heads out and tells Jordan he deserves to be here, that he could walk away the winner and have the biggest win of his life... thus far. Cena says he's wrestling not for himself, but as a favor for Angle who gave him his chance, but wrestling for Jason Jordan's chance. The crowd applauds before the Maple Leaf Mafia head out. Dillinger and Breeze quit the love fest and say Jordan will be the next guy forgotten about, just like his tag team partner. Cena then tells the Maple Leaf Mafia to put their words to the test, saying he'll team with Jason Jordan tonight. Jordan's shocked and as he looks at Cena, Breeze gets a Superkick in and Dillinger attacks Cena, but Cena fights the two off as Jordan shakes his kick off for a surprise tag team match.

Jason Jordan and John Cena vs. Maple Leaf Mafia
Cena hasn't wrestled in nearly two months since his Hell in a Cell defeat to Randy Orton at Vengeance, and he looks really good his first match on SmackDown since being drafted to the blue brand. Cena's carrying the team until Dillinger and Breeze cut the ring off and go to work before Cena makes a hot tag to Jason Jordan and Jordan goes off. Jordan tags Cena in and Cena hits a leg drop on the back of Dillinger's neck. Cena goes for an AA on Dillinger, but Breeze comes in and hits a springboard dropkick on Jordan before Breeze is lifted up for an AA, and then Cena lifts Dillinger on top of it for a Double AA! Cena hooks the leg of Dillinger and the match is over.

John Cena celebrates as he gets his arm raised, and looking at Jordan in the corner, Cena pulls Jason Jordan to the center for the official to raise both hands. Cena says he'll see Jordan this Sunday as he heads out.

Backstage, Intercontinental Champion Neville is walking backstage when he comes across Michael Bennett with Maria. Bennett says he owes him one, and pokes at the title. Neville says he never asked or needed Bennett's help. Jeff Hardy comes in and takes a shot that takes the champion down. Hardy's pounding away before Bennett pulls Hardy off and throws him into a crate, followed with the wall. Bennett rams a knee into Hardy as he then turns and looks at Neville clutching his title, as Bennett reminds Neville he owes him one.

Carmella vs. Tessa Blanchard in a non-title match
As Charlotte joins Graves and Phillips for commentary, the champion Blanchard is surprisingly back-and-forth with Carmella. Blanchard goes for Magnum, but Carmella counters with locking in the Code of Silence but Tessa scoots to get her boot on the rope. Blanchard and Mella slug it out before Blanchard gets a second wind and Charlotte has left commentary, with moments later she gets a big boot to Blanchard.

The referee calls for the bell and Charlotte stands tall as she snags the title from the official and holds it high before Blanchard tackles Charlotte. Blanchard runs Charlotte out of the ring as Blanchard gets a mic in her hands. Blanchard says she was right about having a long history to tell, but she's interested in writing her own history and not riding the coattails of her father like "some have." Blanchard says she has Charlotte's receipt this Sunday for that kick.

Sami Zayn's invited to Kurt Angle's office where Zayn learns he is competing this Sunday. Angle's made the match Bray Wyatt and Erick Rowan against Sami Zayn... and the Boogeyman! Zayn isn't sure about teaming with Boogeyman and Angle is persistent that it will happen, as he coins the term "BoogeyZAYN." Zayn isn't on board but the match is official.

A video from earlier today shows The Vaudevillians disrespecting Big Show at catering, saying he needs to lay off, and Big Show challenges both Aiden and Simon to a handicap match tonight.

Big Show vs. The Vaudevillians in a Handicap Match
Big Show, 2-on-1, puts Aiden and Simon in their place with double chokeslams.

Renee Young tries stopping Maple Leaf Mafia and asking about their loss to Cena and Jordan, but they don't want to hear it. Dillinger recognizes this Sunday is the "Great American Bash" and they're tired of spoiled Americans like Cena and Jordan getting their spot on the show. They vow to crash the bash this Sunday.

Tom Phillips and Corey Graves run down Sunday's Great American Bash event with the following matches:
Jason Jordan versus John Cena
Cesaro versus Sheamus
Bray Wyatt & Erick Rowan versus Boogeyman & Sami Zayn
Neville defends the Intercontinental Championship against Jeff Hardy inside a Steel Cage
Tessa Blanchard defends the Matrons Championship against Charlotte
Christian defends the WWE Universal Championship against Dean Ambrose and Triple H in a triple threat

Dean Ambrose comes to the ring and says he has tasted the WWE Championship for a split second before Kevin Owens ruined it. Ambrose says he can pin Triple H and knows it. Ambrose also says he believes he can beat Christian, proving last week he was an illegal low-blow away from becoming the new WWE Universal Champion. Ambrose says he's hungrier than ever and he's cooking this Sunday like a 4th of July barbecue. Triple H comes down and tells Dean Ambrose there's a reason Kevin Owens cashed in, and that's because he told him to. Triple H says Ambrose isn't worthy of being a world champion or the face of a show. Triple H runs through his accolades and then tells Ambrose to thank him for saving him from the bingo halls. Triple H promises Ambrose won't leave Sunday as champion, because he always has a Game to play. Christian then comes out and says Triple H is right, he won't leave Sunday as champion, because it'll be Captain Charisma. Christian claims Ambrose and Triple H are highly favored to get a title match this Sunday but after he wins, he won't defend his title until SummerSlam. Christian begins warning them before Triple H starts a shouting match, calling Christian the afterthought in his team with Edge. Christian disses his marriage with Stephanie before Ambrose shrugs, turns Triple H around and goes for Dirty Deeds but Triple H gets out of it. Triple H clotheslines Ambrose and Christian storms the ring and attacks Triple H. Triple H tries throwing Christian out, but Christian turns the tide and tosses Triple H over the top rope. Christian removes his shirt and tosses it aside flexing but Ambrose low-blows the champion! For revenge after last week's low blow, Ambrose turns Christian around, locking eyes with Triple H and hitting Dirty Deeds. Ambrose grabs the WWE Universal title and holds it high as SmackDown goes off the air before The Great American Bash on Sunday.

 

[Finishline]

NXT Updates (Wednesday): NXT Champion Adam Cole announces he and the Guerrillas of Destiny are together now, to be referred as "The Industry." Kaluka Maiava and Ku Mahana come to challenge G.o.D. and fall short to Cole's buddies with Guerrilla Warfare. Tommaso Ciampa gets a win over Brilee Fox. After both getting singles victories last week, Dijak beats Kona Reeves. Andrade "Cien" Almas gets a match versus Noam Dar and comes away victorious with Zelina Vega in his corner. After the match, Keith Lee heads out and decides he wants to cross paths with Andrade in the near future. Ember Moon, Chelsea Green, and NXT Women's Champion Kairi Sane team up to face the team of Britt Baker, Bianca Belair, and Sonya Deville. The trio collectively known as The Clink secure a big win with Belair hitting KOD on the NXT Women's Champion and pinning her! Josh "The Goods" Woods and "Filthy" Tom Lawlor challenge for the NXT Tag Team Championships against Cedric Alexander and Moose, and it's a G2H on Woods that keeps the titles with Alexander and Moose. A reminder: The Cruiserweight Classic Finale is tomorrow night with a 2-hour special that includes undercard matchups along with Ace Austin and Trey Miguel competing to become the inaugural WWE Cruiserweight Champion.​

 

[Finishline]

JULY 5 2018 ~ CRUISERWEIGHT CLASSIC LIVE FINALE​

The Cruiserweight Classic wraps up exclusively on the WWE Network!

Jack Gallagher vs. Kushida
In the opener, Kushida finishes Gallagher off with the Ticking Time Bomb.

The commentary team of Vic Joseph and Chavo Guerrero, the duo that's carried this tournament, advertise the main event for tonight, Ace Austin versus Trey Miguel in the finals for the Cruiserweight Championship. Backstage, Kayla Braxton debuts as a WWE backstage interviewer with Ace Austin. Braxton asks about his thoughts going into tonight, and Ace Austin reminds the world he's only 21 years old and wrestling just three years, but in this tournament he's beaten the likes of Fantasma, Guevara, and Ospreay - 3 favorites at the beginning. Ace says he's just that, the Ace of the Tournament, and he will prove that by becoming the new WWE Cruiserweight Champion.

Flip Gordon vs. Sammy Guevara
Gordon and Guevara outmatch each other with aerobatic counters and elusions, but it's Sammy hitting a Modified 630 Senton to win the match.

Sending it backstage to Kayla Braxton with Trey Miguel before the Cruiserweight Classic Finals, Braxton asks Trey what's on his mind. Trey humbly responds he's grateful to be here but the mission isn't finished. Trey Miguel says Ace Austin is impressive and he's ready for what he brings tonight.

Kip Sabian and Marty Scurll are arguing about their tag team match later tonight, not seeming to be on the same page as both look to gain stardom before the 205 Live debut on July 26th.

Rohit Raju heads to the ring and looks down at the setting at Full Sail and the entire tournament. Raju says he will be the one WWE fans were waiting upon, and says this is only the stepping stone to him being a WWE world champion one day. TJ Perkins heads out to a warmer reaction, ready to shut Raju up.

Rohit Raju vs. TJ Perkins
Perkins uses a TJP Clutch and forces Raju to tap out in his debut.

Previewing the main event Cruiserweight Championship match, they go over their wins in the tournament. Ace Austin's wins are as follows: Bandido (R64), Zema Ion (32), El Hijo del Fantasma (16), Sammy Guevara (Elite 8) and Will Ospreay in the Final Four. As for Trey Miguel: Ricky Mandel (R64), Tony Nese (32), Akira Tozawa (16), Kota Ibushi (Elite 8) and Marty Scurll in the Final Four. Chavo Guerrero makes the comment that Ace Austin has had a tougher road, but Miguel has amazed everyone by making it this far.

Kip Sabian and Marty Scurll vs. Mansoor and Mustafa Ali
Mansoor and Mustafa Ali are working well together until Scurll takes the turnbuckle pad off the bottom rope and Sabian dropkicks Mansoor in the corner, which hits the exposed buckle and as the official tries to see what happened, he reluctantly counts three for Sabian and Scurll.

Various people give their thoughts, and it's about a 75-25 favorite for Ace Austin amongst the 205 Live talent that's signed. In a poll for the audience, it shows Trey Miguel at 63% winning tonight. Chavo Guerrero gives his opinion and feels tonight will be the knighting of Ace Austin.

Chavo Guerrero inside the ring and is ready to unveil the Cruiserweight Championship that Ace Austin and Trey Miguel will be competing for. Vince McMahon joins the party to unveil the title. Mr. McMahon also breaks the news that for 205 Live, he's replacing Chavo with The Brian Kendrick on commentary. Chavo's face drops and tries to beg Mr. McMahon to keep the job, but Vince breaks the news that Chavo will be the new General Manager of 205 Live! Chavo's shocked at this wave of emotions and after they unveil the title, a video package hypes up the main event. Once the video package ends, Chavo returns to the booth and Vic Joseph congratulates Chavo on this promotion, knowing he'll do great.

Ace Austin, followed by Trey Miguel, head to the ring for their Cruiserweight Classic finals matchup that crowns a new Cruiserweight Champion.

Ace Austin vs. Trey Miguel for the inaugural WWE Cruiserweight Championship in the Cruiserweight Classic Finals
With a 60-minute time limit, Miguel and Austin are pulling out all the stops. Once they've approached 25 minutes, Chavo wonders what he'll do as General Manager if they go the distance. Austin has kicked out a Yoshi Tonic and Miguel has kicked out of an Ace's High. Going toe-to-toe, they get into a slap and kick fight in the center of the ring before Miguel's hyped up and throws everything at Ace before trying a Meteora, but Austin avoids it and runs and hits a running knee but only gets a two-count. Ace goes for The Fold, but Miguel counters and almost gets Ace in a small package but he gets out just in time for Miguel to hit a snap DDT before going up to hit a Meteora, which is countered in The Fold! Ace Austin hooks the leg deep and wins!

The music hits and Ace Austin tears up in the ring as confetti falls and pyro sounds. Chavo Guerrero gets inside the ring and presents the WWE Cruiserweight Championship to Ace Austin. The celebration is cut short when Ace Austin notices Zack Sabre Jr. coming to the ring applauding. The NXT superstar comes down and meets Austin eye to eye as Chavo is noticing this and heads back to the commentary booth. Chavo puts his headset on and announces for 205 Live's debut in three weeks on July 26th, the main event will be Zack Sabre Jr. against Ace Austin for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship! And this is how the 64-man tournament reaches its conclusion.

 

[Finishline]

KICKOFF SHOW -

Tyler Breeze and Tyler Dillinger, the newly formed team known as Maple Leaf Mafia, head out waving a Canadian flag and dressed in Canadian colors. The duo say they're putting The Great American Bash on strike and the PPV will be canceled. They're upset they aren't scheduled on the card before they're interrupted by a pair of former WWE Tag Team Champions, from the Cruiserweight Classic tournament, Paul London and The Brian Kendrick! They recall successfully defending their titles back in 2006 at the PPV, and they also want a tag team match tonight. Dillinger reminds Londrick their big win was 12 years ago and times have changed. Dillinger says they're future WWE Tag Team Champions and that's in the very near future. Breeze says he wants to donate to charity and give Londrick 15 minutes of fame, and he might let them get a punch in.

Londrick vs. Maple Leaf Mafia
Teaming for the first time in WWE since 2008, Londrick is taking it to the Maple Leaf Mafia, as Dillinger and Breeze are biting off a bit more than they can chew but the match turns a table when Breeze catches London off a springboard into a Beauty Shot! Breeze's cover is broken up by Kendrick, before Dillinger comes and takes Kendrick out. Kendrick tries hitting a Sliced Bread on Dillinger, but he tosses him outside the ring. Dillinger and Breeze get together to do a double team finisher, as Dillinger clips London's legs while Breeze hits a second Beauty Shot and Breeze makes the cover.

Leaving the ring, the Maple Leaf Mafia make sure to wave their Canadian flag, rubbing it in everyone's face of their win tonight.

As the PPV draws near, the kickoff panel hypes Christian's WWE Universal Championship defense against Triple H and Dean Ambrose. After they hype it up, Kurt Angle is in his office when he hears a knock. Angle embraces... the Rated-R Superstar, Edge! The fans seeing Edge on the tron pop. Angle welcomes Edge and thanks him for accepting the invite. Edge reminds Angle of their little feud back in the early days of SmackDown, and saying he has a nice shaved head because of it. Angle asks who Edge thinks will win tonight, and Edge shrugs, but was wanting to run an idea by him. Edge asks if he can come to SmackDown this Tuesday and host The Cutting Edge with the winner of tonight's WWE Universal Championship match. Kurt Angle loves the idea and says he'll let it open SmackDown.

JULY 8 2018 ~ THE GREAT AMERICAN BASH (presented by SMACKDOWN!)​

The Great American Bash kicks off with Tom Phillips and Corey Graves ecstatic for tonight's show! And up first, the steel cage lowers for the Intercontinental Championship to be defended.

Neville(c) vs. Jeff Hardy for the Intercontinental Championship in a Steel Cage Match
Neville and Hardy go back and forth this match. Neville's pounding Hardy in the ground, and Hardy returns the favor with some hard shots. Neville would try escaping, but Hardy would pull Neville off the cage and elbow him, before hitting Whisper in the Wind! Hardy hooks the leg and only gets two. A few moments later, Hardy rolls out of the Black Arrow and gains some momentum before catching Neville in a Twist of Fate, but Neville gets his shoulder up! Hardy doesn't know what to do and begins climbing the ladder. Just like he envisioned this Tuesday, Hardy has a choice to escape and win the title or leap onto Neville. Hardy looks to the fans who are split, when Hardy stands on top of the cage, looking inside. Neville begins stirring and Hardy waits for Neville to get to his feet and doesn't hear Graves advising Hardy to win, but Hardy leaps to the ring and hits a Crossbody! Hardy is hype for hitting the move and he gets on the top rope and goes for a Swanton Bomb, but Neville gets the knees up. Hardy goes back first into the knees and Neville locks in the Rings of Saturn tight. Neville wrenches and Hardy gives up.

Neville's music hits and he lays in the ring after surviving the Steel Cage against Jeff Hardy. Neville awaits the Steel Cage to raise up before he rolls out of the ring and gets handed his Intercontinental Championship. The reigning champion makes his way to the back as Hardy comes to and shakes his head, knowing what just happened.
The Miz is watching on a monitor, shaking his head knowing that Jeff Hardy would ruin his opportunity. The Miz says the title has been so precious in his career and Jeff throws it away like it's nothing and it's upsetting. The Miz is interrupted by Daniel Bryan. Bryan asks Miz how he's doing, and The Miz tells his longtime rival to go away. Bryan says the title means a lot to him too, but needs a chance to prove he's worthy of the title. Bryan says he can do that, this Tuesday on SmackDown. The Miz thinks of it and eventually accepts.

Cesaro vs. Sheamus
With both men having a win over each other, these two are bruising each other, chests red from the beating these two are dishing out. This match concludes with Sheamus missing a Brogue Kick and Cesaro hitting a springboard uppercut. Cesaro grabs Sheamus for a Neutralizer, but Sheamus hits a back body drop and comes back for a second Brogue Kick, but Cesaro ducks and Sheamus gets his leg caught on the rope and Cesaro hits an inverted neckbreaker, following it up with a Neutralizer that puts away the Celtic Warrior!

Cesaro can barely stand as he gets his hand raised in victory over Sheamus, knowing neither man will be the same again after outdoing their previous matches, including the one at No Mercy.

Jason Jordan stands by with Renee Young who asks about his match versus John Cena. Jordan says it's a great opportunity, and he's thankful for it, but Cena should not mistake this as an easy matchup. If Cena's expecting the win, Jason Jordan says he's about to be very disappointed. Jordan hits the curtain for the match up next.

Jason Jordan vs. John Cena
Cena comes in a little arrogant but after the first few moves, Jordan slaps Cena in the face and hits a belly-to-belly suplex that rocks Cena. Cena takes this seriously and the two go on for a good amateur-style match, as Jordan nearly taps Cena out to an Ankle Lock, but Jordan nearly gets his shoulders pinned with several near falls. Towards the end, Cena gets momentum and goes for an AA, but Jordan slides off the back and hits a German Suplex, but not letting go, hits three consecutively. Jordan lowers the straps and tries for an Angle Slam, just like Kurt would do, but Cena counters into an AA! Cena goes for the cover but Jordan rolls to the apron. Cena then goes to suplex Jordan from the apron to the ring, but Jordan slides behind the back and tries a German Suplex again, but Cena holds the ropes in and elbows Jordan. Cena goes for the AA, but Jordan slides out and picks the ankle. Jordan tries locking in the Ankle Lock, but Cena rolls through and locks in the STF! Cena wrenches back and Jordan has nowhere to go and TAPS!

John Cena's music hits and he gets a huge ovation as he celebrates, but seeing Jason Jordan getting up in tears, the music stops. Cena extends his hand to Jordan who thinks about it and inevitably shakes the hand of the 17-time world champion. Cena pats Jordan on the shoulder and leaves the ring to Jordan who gets an ovation from the crowd.

After watching some highlights from the previous match, Corey Graves applauds Jason Jordan's efforts. We watch a couple of commercials for the WWE Network, along with next month's SummerSlam event. But after the package, Jordan walks through the curtain and is immediately embraced by several guys in the back. Kurt Angle is the first to congratulate him, and as Jordan takes the walk by several talents, he comes face-to-face with Edge. Edge extends a handshake and tells Jordan he has a bright future in the business, and pushing Cena to the limit is something to lift his head for.

We see a video package of the match up next, one for the Matrons Championship as two generational superstars compete against one another for the first time: Tessa Blanchard and Charlotte.

Tessa Blanchard(c) vs. Charlotte for the Matrons Championship
Blanchard and Charlotte try to outmatch each other with their physical gifts and when Tessa begins getting on a roll, Charlotte slides out of the ring and takes a breath but turns into a suicide dive! Tessa throws Charlotte back in the ring and goes for a Figure Four, but Charlotte kicks into another gear and battles back. Charlotte chops Blanchard to the mat a few times before hitting a dragon screw, wooing, and locking in the Figure Four. Charlotte tries getting the Figure 8, but Blanchard shifts her weight to prevent it and eventually crawls to the ropes. Charlotte goes to pick Blanchard up, who goes straight into Magnum, which Charlotte counters and tries hitting Natural Selection, but Blanchard avoids it at the last second. Blanchard tries going and hitting Magnum, but Charlotte rolls over and grabs the rope, the official counts 3 without seeing it!

Charlotte's music hits and Tessa Blanchard is livid. Charlotte quickly rolls out of dodge and is handed the Matrons Championship for the first time of her career and runs up the ramp to celebrate as Blanchard argues with the official, especially after seeing the replay on the titantron.

Sami Zayn is arguing the pairing of Boogeyman tonight, but Kurt Angle shrugs and then the Boogeyman's music hits. The red dim lights and smoke appear as The Boogeyman heads over to Zayn. He looks over fascinated by him, with complete repulse on Zayn's face, and Boogeyman heads his way to the ring followed by Sami Zayn for the match next.

After Boogeyman and Sami Zayn make their entrance, a replay is shown back from the 2015 Royal Rumble when Boogeyman and Bray Wyatt had their first encounter, as Wyatt eliminates Boogeyman from the Royal Rumble Match. Fast forward to this week, Boogeyman saves Sami Zayn from an attack by Bray Wyatt and Erick Rowan, leading to this tag team match we never imagined to see.

Boogeyman and Sami Zayn vs. Bray Wyatt and Erick Rowan
Rowan and Zayn are caught off guard by Boogeyman's antics while Bray laughs and welcomes it, even when he's attacking him. Wyatt maniacally laughs throughout the entire match and as Sami Zayn gets the tag in, Bray hits a running crossbody and takes Zayn out. Wyatt goes to the corner for Sister Abigail and he begins to crawl when the Boogeyman slides in the ring and comes face-to-face with Bray, holding a handful of worms. Bray flips around and kneels at Boogeyman, asking for it when Zayn nails a shining wizard on Bray that knocks him back in the corner for Rowan to reach down for a tag. Rowan goes to head inside the ring and Boogeyman stops him in his tracks, allowing Rowan to be distracted for a Helluva Kick. Zayn hooks Rowan's outside leg and that's it!

Sami Zayn's music hits as the unlikely team coined "BoogeyZAYN" by Kurt Angle has beat Bray Wyatt and Erick Rowan. Zayn gets up and sees Boogeyman with the handful of worms, and Zayn gets out of dodge before Boogeyman insists on putting the worms in Rowan's face before leaving the ring.

A video package shows the culmination of the Cruiserweight Classic this week where Ace Austin beat Trey Miguel to become the inaugural WWE Cruiserweight Champion. The video transitions into what's to come on July 26th as "205 Live" makes its debut.

Tom Phillips and Corey Graves break down a great show thus far with the main event lurking by. Advertising Tuesday's SmackDown, they confirm that career rivals Daniel Bryan and The Miz are going one-on-one. Plus, Edge has promised to return The Cutting Edge with the winner of the main event and the WWE Universal Champion.

Christian(c) vs. Dean Ambrose vs. Triple H for the WWE Universal Championship
Christian begins the match in a hole with Ambrose and Triple H both wanting the world title after tonight, but as the match progresses, Christian forms an alliance with Triple H to take out Ambrose. Both are working on Ambrose, and after Triple H hits a Pedigree on Ambrose on the steel chair, Christian tosses Triple H through the ropes and tries to secure the pin, but Triple H pulls Christian's leg and gives him a big ole clothesline, thus ending the alliance. Triple H clears the Spanish announce table to pull Christian up and hit a Pedigree, but Ambrose runs and tackles Triple H through the barricade! Christian lays on the announce table as Ambrose is hammering Triple H. Christian gets up and goes for Ambrose, but Ambrose sends Christian into the steps and begins stomping away. Ambrose gets Triple H up and laying on the announce table for Ambrose to scale the top rope and hit an ELBOW DROP through the announce table from the ring!

Christian sees both competitors down in the rubble and smiles. Christian gets up and pulls Triple H up before rolling him inside the ring and introducing two steel chairs. Christian goes to put Triple H in the con-chair-to but Triple H throws the chair aside and rolls away. Christian then hits Triple H while he's down with a steel chair. Christian pulls Triple H up by the hair and goes for the Killswitch on the chair, but Triple H reverses into the Pedigree. Ambrose emerges and breaks up the pinfall! Ambrose goes off on Triple H and eventually hits a diving vertical elbow on The Game before setting up for Dirty Deeds. Triple H pushes Ambrose away, but into the ropes, who comes back with a Rebound Clothesline but it's countered into a Spinebuster! Triple H gets up and is immediately Speared by the champion, a homage to his former tag team partner and real-life best friend. Christian kicks Triple H to the floor and turns his attention to Ambrose who is getting up and goes for the Killswitch, but it's countered and Ambrose hits Dirty Deeds! Ambrose hit the finisher! Christian rolled over creating space, but he's out of it. Ambrose musters enough strength to begin crawling over to Christian when... a boot smushes Ambrose's face in the mat. What, it's SETH ROLLINS! Seth Rollins just Curb Stomped Ambrose. Rollins hasn't been seen since WrestleMania when he was hit with a Dirty Deeds through a cinder block. Rollins kneels by Ambrose before Christian comes to and drapes his arm over Ambrose, and the official counts three.

If You Just Close Your Eyes plays as Christian lays in the ring before being given his title that he would hold close to his chest. Seth Rollins remains standing above Dean Ambrose in the center of the ring after costing Ambrose the WWE Universal Championship tonight. Christian eventually rolls out and Triple H is getting medical attention as he rests against the barricade, while the big story is Rollins returns and screws Ambrose. Tom Phillips reminds us Edge will host The Cutting Edge, with a guest we can now confirm, the retaining WWE Universal Champion Christian! The Great American Bash, a historic pay-per-view, fades to black.

 

[Finishline]

JULY 9 2018 ~ MONDAY NIGHT RAW​

Cody Rhodes begins tonight's episode of Raw excited about the fact he pinned the WWE Champion last week in tag action. Responding, Emperor Roman Reigns comes and claims he shouldn't be in the world title picture to begin with, it should be the reigning King of the Ring. Cody mocks Roman and says that was last year, but this is tonight, and he's ready to fight now. Reigns backs off and begins walking to the back when JBL comes to the stage and says it's a great idea to kick off the show with two of the top talents, Rhodes versus Reigns right now!

Cody Rhodes vs. Emperor Roman Reigns
Cody and Roman go toe-to-toe and with several near falls to kick off the show, the crowd is into it. Cody is taken out with the Emperor Punch and Reigns hooks the leg, but Cody barely gets the shoulder up at 2 and nine-tenths. Roman can't believe it and he sets up for a Spear when he hears the motorcycle revving. Reigns turns around demanding for Corbin to come down. The sound is enough to distract the Emperor as Cody hops up and hits the Disaster Kick! Reigns staggers to his feet and Rhodes hits the Cross-Rhodes finisher to hook the leg and pin Roman.

Cody Rhodes gets out of the ring with a win as the motorcycle revving sounds stop and we go to commercial.

After commercial, the Emperor storms through the halls and confronts Baron Corbin, who's just sipping a drink at catering. Reigns pulls Corbin's shoulder around as Reigns yells in Corbin's face about interfering in his match. Corbin says he's been in catering the whole time and Reigns calls BS. Reigns and Corbin then get in a shouting match that is separated by people backstage before things escalate. Reigns threatens Corbin he's coming for him.

The Aristocrat Cartel is backstage with Alberto Del Rio bragging to Ortiz and Santana of his win last week. Ortiz and Santana say this doesn't change they aren't WWE Trios Champions. Del Rio says they need a match with the three of them to rebuild their confidence, so he's scheduled a non-title opportunity against The New Day. Santana steps up and says if Del Rio doesn't pull his weight, they're gonna rethink who they align themselves with.

Bobby Lashley(c) vs. Matt Hardy w/The Usos for the United States Championship
With a valiant effort, Matt tries upsetting Bobby Lashley. Jimmy and Jey root on a childhood hero of theirs. Matt hits a Twist of Fate and everyone pops but Lashley manages to kick out before the official counts 3. Matt then goes to the top rope for a leg drop but Lashley moves out of the way. Matt grabs the hamstring as he makes his way to the feet and Lashley runs and tries hitting a Spear, but Matt sidesteps the champion who almost goes into the corner, but stops his momentum. Lashley turns around for a kick in the gut and almost gets hit with a second Twist of Fate, but he counters for a Dominator and hits it! Lashley rolls Matt over and gets the 3.

The Usos check in on Matt Hardy as Bobby Lashley's handed the United States Championship, but not without showing some signs of being in a war to retain his title.

Finn Balor hypes Jordan Devlin up backstage for his first match with a Raw contract, going one-on-one with Luke Harper. Balor advises Devlin that Luke Harper is a different monster and needs to beware. Balor promises he'll be in his corner tonight and won't let anything crazy go down.

"The Modern Day Apostle" Viktor heads out with The Fallen's Aleister Black and Damian Priest. Viktor begins giving the history of the urn, acknowledging the powers it possessed from the early years of The Undertaker with Paul Bearer. The urn has been a symbol of one of the greatest wrestlers, if not the greatest, in WWE history. It's a big part of The Undertaker's career, whose brother is Kane. Viktor says he now possesses the power of The Undertaker, and he doesn't control Aleister Black or Damian Priest. They willingly follow him. Viktor begins berating Kane as the lesser of the Brothers of Destruction when KANE'S music hits! Viktor, Black, and Priest all prepare before Kane heads down with the red lights dimming the arena. Kane gets in and stands toe-to-toe with Black and Priest while Viktor stands behind. The lights come on and Viktor laughs as Kane takes a knee of reverence... it's "Impostor Kane." Viktor says the "Old Kane" is 51 years old, but the "New Kane" is the future, just like The Fallen is the future. Then Kane's music hits again and this time it's the real Kane! Heyman notoriously says "It's gotta be... IT'S GOTTA BE KANE!" and the Big Red Monster runs down and starts throwing rights to the Impostor Kane but he's quickly overtaken on a 3-on-1 assault as Viktor stays back and encourages them on. The assault ends when Viktor holds the urn up and the Impostor Kane hits a Tombstone Piledriver on the real Kane. Viktor stands behind the three men as they take a knee in reverence while kneeling over Kane's body as a commercial break gives everyone time to regroup.

The next match scheduled is Emma versus Rubi Riot. Emma awaits in the ring and during Rubi Riot's entrance, she's attacked with a crowbar by Becky Lynch. Turnabout is fair play from last week as Lynch is going in on Rubi Riot before security rushes and separate the two. Blood's boiling in this feud and it takes a few minutes to separate the two as fans beg for the security guards to let them go. Once they're separated, JBL sends down Asuka for Rubi Riot's replacement.

Asuka vs. Emma
Asuka's thrown into this match as a last-second replacement and Emma picks up wins in back-to-back weeks using the Dil-Emma to the count of 4 (and a half) before chasing Asuka to the center of the ring and getting in the Emma Lock for Asuka to tap out.

Emperor Roman Reigns barges into JBL's office and demands justice for Baron Corbin's involvement in the match earlier tonight. JBL thinks over Roman shouting down JBL's throat before the General Manager stops Roman from trying to initiate a shouting match. JBL makes it official for two weeks at Stomping Grounds: Baron Corbin faces Emperor Roman Reigns. JBL then advises Reigns to not interrupt the main event tonight that sees Baron Corbin wrestling WWE Champion Kevin Owens in a non-title match. Reigns doesn't promise but walks out without another word.

Luke Harper vs. Jordan Devlin w/Finn Balor
Jordan Devlin's being manhandled by the much larger Luke Harper. The former Cruiserweight Classic competitor is struggling and Luke Harper decides it's time to end this, but takes his sweet time by shouting at Balor to watch. Luke Harper goes for the discus clothesline but Devlin rolls underneath and as Harper comes back with a second discus clothesline attempt, he's kicked straight in the jaw that staggers him. Harper charges at Devlin and Devlin hits a sunset flip powerbomb, transitioned into a pin with deep leverage and Harper kicks out, but not before the official counts 3!

Jordan Devlin gets out of dodge quick as he and Finn Balor run up the ramp, almost as shocked as anyone else, as Jordan Devlin upsets Luke Harper in his first match with a Raw contract. The man drafted as a prospect earlier this year earns that selection now with a win over the much larger Harper.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman announce that Elias Samson was supposed to be in attendance for an interview, but instead, has other obligations and is thus completing this interview via a phone call. On the call, Elias answers why he isn't in attendance by saying his other career as a singer is taking lead now and is in Nashville this week. Heyman calls out Elias for being extremely talented but not working enough on his craft as a WWE superstar. Elias begins to answer the question, but he's sidetracked with a woman's conversation in the background. Michael asks who that is, and Elias quickly hangs up. Heyman suggests it's Scarlett who has been around several weeks.

The Aristocrat Cartel vs. The New Day in a non-title match
Ortiz and Santana refuse to tag into the match, seeing Alberto Del Rio go through all three members of The New Day and losing to the Midnight Hour.

After Del Rio loses in under 4 minutes, Ortiz and Santana hop off the apron and walk off from Alberto Del Rio for a second week in a row.

JBL spots Matt Hardy and The Usos watching backstage and goes up to them. JBL congratulates Matt on the effort tonight against Bobby Lashley, but more importantly, he's impressed with how the three have gelled together as of late. JBL says it's not The Hardy Boyz anymore, and Raw requires more than just The Usos. JBL grants them a WWE Trios Championships match at Stomping Grounds against The New Day, wishing them luck. The Usos are ecstatic as Matt's still feeling the affects from earlier, but excited nonetheless.

Alexa Bliss vs. Paige in a non-title match
Mickie James joins Michael Cole and Paul Heyman on commentary. Mickie recognizes Paige is one of the best in the world today, perhaps the best, but she is confident she can use her experience against her. Mickie insists she has the recipe, but watches Paige force Bliss to tap out to the PTO.

After the match, Paige grabs her Women's Championship and makes it a point to stare down Mickie James ahead of their title match in two weeks.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman break the news to Mickie James that she wrestles Emma next week, someone who's been on a roll as of late. Also confirmed for next week, a fatal-four way will get a new #1 contender for Bobby Lashley's United States Championship: Finn Balor, Murphy, Rusev, and Shinsuke Nakamura all compete for the rights to face Lashley next for the title. But several big matches were made for Stomping Grounds in two weeks. Along with the two matches already announced tonight, Becky Lynch and Rubi Riot will have a chance to settle their differences in a Street Fight. As they're about to throw it to the ring for the main event, they immediately throw it to JBL in his office for some breaking news...

JBL admits he's been deciding what to do about Viktor and The Fallen. As of late, they've attacked Kane with an impostor. JBL says he's only known one Kane. Next week, he's demanding the Impostor Kane to reveal himself. JBL announces he'll make a match at Stomping Grounds, Kane versus the Impostor Kane, if the impostor reveals himself.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman react to the announcement as the motorcycle revs up and Baron Corbin comes out.

Baron Corbin vs. Kevin Owens in a non-title match
Baron Corbin starts the match with a huge advantage over Owens, but one mistake as Corbin trips on the outside, he's hit with a Popup Powerbomb on the apron that changes momentum. Owens gets some offense in before he's ready to put Corbin away, setting up a Package Piledriver, but Corbin blocks it and turns the tide back his way. Corbin hits the Deep-Six and gets ready for the End of Days. Emperor Roman Reigns has his music hit and Corbin looks to the ramp. Corbin's ready for it as he turns around and sees the Emperor hopping the barricade to get in the ring. Corbin blocks Reigns off, but he's rolled over for a schoolboy pin.

Kevin Owens has his music abruptly ended as Reigns pounces on Corbin and the two brawl. Owens grabs his WWE Championship from the timekeeper area and gets up the ramp. Watching the two brawl, Kevin's pulled from behind and Cody hits a Cross-Rhodes on the stage! Cody grabs the WWE Championship and holds it high as Raw goes off the air.

 

[Finishline]

JULY 10 2018 ~ TUESDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!​

SmackDown begins with the ring setup for the Cutting Edge. Edge's music hits and the Rated-R Superstar comes out to a huge pop from the crowd. Edge heads to the ring and mentions a great triple threat this past Sunday and wishes the best to Triple H, which is welcomed by the first boos of the night. Edge is then interrupted by WWE Universal Champion Christian, his guest for the night. Christian gets in the ring, saying "long time no see" and asking Edge if Triple H is the guest of the show, or if it's the champion. Christian tells Edge next time he needs to be welcomed from the beginning. Edge congratulates Christian, who just focuses that he's on top of the world while Edge is sipping martinis in retirement. Christian shoves the title in his face, saying this is the one title that will elude Edge in his career. Christian predicts the next question, asking himself "how could you be this good this late in your career" and answers his own question by saying he's taken care of his body, unlike some. Edge bites his lip before Seth Rollins comes out. Rollins apologizes for interrupting, but tells Christian he wouldn't be WWE Universal Champion if not for him. As a matter of fact, he wants to be solely responsible for preventing Dean Ambrose winning this Sunday. Rollins says he has signed with SmackDown and should be next in line, but here comes DEAN AMBROSE! The Lunatic Fringe wastes no time tackling Seth Rollins and fighting in the ring. Rollins escapes and Ambrose picks up a chair and throws it in Seth's direction. Ambrose is ready to fight when Christian tries to play peacemaker and gets hit with a Dirty Deeds. Ambrose looks at Edge, who wants nothing to do with him, as SmackDown hits the first commercial break.

Daniel Bryan vs. The Miz
Two rivals go head-to-head and it's Bryan getting the Yes Lock in before Miz shifts his weight into a pinning predicament, and with grabbing on the ropes outside the referee's vision, The Miz steals one over his career nemesis.

Corey Graves and Tom Phillips acknowledge Edge's comments at the start of the Cutting Edge, noting that Triple H had surgery yesterday for a torn tricep and will be out for several months. In the meantime, Kurt Angle's announced a title match for the main event tonight. With what went down on Sunday at The Great American Bash, Dean Ambrose will get another opportunity against Christian for the WWE Universal Championship.

Renee Young catches a word with Dean Ambrose about his title opportunity tonight. Ambrose says the WWE Universal Championship keeps eluding him, but after he caves Christian's head into the mat tonight and becomes a 3-time world champion, he's going for Seth Rollins.

Depths of Despair vs. The Vaudevillians in a non-title match
Akam and Rezar completely dismantle Aiden and Simon, winning this match with a Super Collider.

Cesaro is backstage when Sheamus approaches him. Against his pride, Sheamus congratulates Cesaro on his win and they shake hands. They hear some laughter and it's the Maple Leaf Mafia. Tye Dillinger and Tyler Breeze approach, calling Sheamus soft. Dillinger says the Sheamus he knows would never concede, in which Sheamus gets in Dillinger's face and Breeze pulls them apart. Cesaro then suggests Sheamus prove it, proposing Sheamus compete in a tag team match against the Maple Leaf Mafia. Cesaro says he'll be his partner, and Sheamus is caught off guard, as is Maple Leaf Mafia, but accepts nonetheless.

Intercontinental Champion Neville comes to the ring gloating about his title retention against Jeff Hardy in a Steel Cage, forcing the Charismatic Enigma to submit. Neville claims he's unstoppable since he came back and stopped caring what the fans thought. Jason Jordan interrupts the champion, claiming he's the one to stop Neville. Neville laughs and asks if Jason Jordan won his match at The Great American Bash. Knowing it's a negative, Neville laughs before John Cena's music hits! Cena heads out and explains only one title has eluded him in his career, being the Intercontinental Championship, and he won his match on Sunday. Neville backs up with concern, but Cena says he doesn't need it. Cena explains he agreed to wrestle Jason Jordan because he's the future of the business, and while he didn't beat a 17-time world champion, Cena is certain Jordan can beat a 0-time world champion. Cena gets the fans on board of a Jason Jordan title opportunity but Neville refuses and leaves the ring upset.

Jason Jordan w/John Cena vs. Michael Bennett w/Maria
During the commercial break, the self-proclaimed Silver Medalist came to challenge Jason Jordan to a match, claiming he's worthy of a title opportunity instead. Cena stuck around to be in Jordan's corner, keeping Maria from interfering, and Jason Jordan used the STF for the first time ever, Cena's signature submission hold, and Bennett has no answer for it and taps.

John Cena runs inside and raises Jason Jordan's hand after he shows he's worthy of a championship opportunity against Neville.

Renee Young asks WWE Universal Champion Christian about his title match against Dean Ambrose later tonight. Christian says he's defended the title against Ambrose one too many times and the Lunatic Fringe continues to fail. Christian says Ambrose is probably feeling like Edge right now, playing second fiddle to his former tag team partner. Renee asks about Christian's appearance on the Cutting Edge, when Christian cuts her off. Captain Charisma says Edge did a horrible job hosting his talk show tonight, by not introducing his guest and not having good questions lined up and letting chaos ensue. Christian says he knows how to host a talk show, and wants to show Edge how it's done. Christian says next week he'll host The Peep Show, and his guest? Edge.

Bayley vs. Nikki Cross
Bayley and Nikki Cross are having a solid match before Nikki charges at Bayley and she sends Nikki over the top rope with a back body drop. As Nikki is getting up, Tessa Blanchard charges and attacks Nikki Cross, causing for the bell.

Tessa Blanchard is relentless before picking Nikki up and throwing her into the steps. Tessa gets a microphone from the timekeeper area and says Sunday was injustice. Tessa calls for Charlotte, but Bayley gets out of the ring and turns Tessa around. Tessa drops the mic and the two exchange words before Tessa shoves Bayley in the face, then the Hugger returns the favor and now Blanchard and Bayley have to get separated.

Kurt Angle spots Jason Jordan backstage talking to John Cena. Angle walks up to them, thanking Cena for agreeing to wrestle Jason Jordan and congratulates both on a hell of a match. Angle addresses what happened earlier, saying if Cena believes he is ready, then the Olympic Gold Medalist believes he's ready. Kurt Angle announces Jason Jordan versus Neville for the Intercontinental Championship... next week! Jordan can't believe it and Cena promises he needs to work, but he'll be there every step of the way.

Maple Leaf Mafia head to the ring waving their Canadian flag, announcing they ruined the Great American Bash for every American on the kickoff show by beating Londrick. They say the only thing they respect about Cesaro and Sheamus is they aren't from America. Dillinger says they've adopted American tendencies, like Sheamus being soft. As they mock, Sheamus and Cesaro head out together to the Celtic Warrior's theme as we're set for tag action.

Maple Leaf Mafia vs. Cesaro and Sheamus
Sheamus, as well as Cesaro, are showing they're anything but soft. This match is full of Dillinger and Breeze taking hard hits. Sheamus is getting ready to hit a Brogue Kick and as Breeze gets to his feet, Dillinger pulls Breeze out of the ring to boos. Cesaro runs out and hits a running uppercut on Breeze before Dillinger throws Cesaro over the barricade. Sheamus goes chasing Dillinger and throws him into the barricade and the ring apron a couple times before rolling him back in the ring. Sheamus measures Dillinger up and hits a Brogue Kick! Sheamus makes the cover but the official doesn't count. The official tries explaining that Dillinger isn't the legal man and the Celtic Warrior turns around into a Beauty Shot. Tyler Breeze hooks a deep pin and gets Sheamus on the element of surprise, securing the fall!

Sheamus nor Cesaro can believe it and Tyler Breeze is quick out of the ring and pulls Dillinger out with him. Maple Leaf Mafia head up the ramp as Cesaro helps Sheamus up to his feet and they shake hands once more, finding a newfound respect for one another after destroying each other as of late, including recently at the Great American Bash.

Tom Phillips and Corey Graves preview what's ahead for next week. Already confirmed is the Intercontinental Championship defense for Neville against Jason Jordan, who has 17-time world champion John Cena in his corner. Plus, Kurt Angle's made a Bayley versus Tessa Blanchard after earlier tonight. And of course, Christian is hosting his Peep Show with guest Edge next week. But Phillips poses the scenario that Christian hosts the Peep Show next week as the former WWE Universal Champion, as Dean Ambrose has his title opportunity next.

Christian(c) vs. Dean Ambrose for the WWE Universal Championship
Ambrose was perhaps envisioning Seth Rollins with every shot he took on Christian. Captain Charisma's reign is in jeopardy and Ambrose was ready to become WWE Universal Champion for the first time since being the inaugural champion in 2016. Ambrose is gearing up and goes to hit Dirty Deeds when Seth's music hits. Ambrose throws Christian aside and gets ready for Seth Rollins. Ambrose hops outside, waiting for Seth's appearance. Christian gets to his feet and as the music plays, the official calls for the bell.

The music stops and Dean Ambrose heads back inside the ring but the official's waving the match off for a count-out. Ambrose is livid as Christian gets handed the WWE Universal Championship and rolls out of the ring. Ambrose goes after Christian and throws him back inside and goes off. Ambrose is leveling Christian and is about to hit the Dirty Deeds before Christian squirms out and pushes Ambrose away. As Christian rolls out of the ring, Ambrose lunges on the rope, upset he let this one got away. As Ambrose mourns his count-out loss, he's smashed in the back with a steel chair... it's Seth Rollins! Rollins throws the chair down and pulls Ambrose off the rope and hits a Curb Stomp on the chair! Rollins gets the last laugh as he stands over Ambrose who requires medical attention as SmackDown goes off the air.

 

[Finishline]

NXT Updates (Wednesday):

At the top of the show, William Regal announced a new championship, the NXT North American Championship. Regal announced tonight's show is dedicated to finding who will compete in a ROUND ROBIN tournament. Regal explains how this particular round robin tournament will work:
There are two pools of four competitors, eight total
Pool A: Wrestler 1, 2, 3, and 4
Pool B: Wrestler 5, 6, 7, and 8

Each wrestler in their designated pool wrestle each other once. Pinfall victories will count as 2 points, submission victories will count as 3. DQ/count-out victories will count as 1 point, while wrestlers who suffer DQ/count-out losses will lose 1 point. At NXT Takeover in Brooklyn next month, the wrestlers with the most points in their respective pool will compete to become the inaugural NXT North American Champion.

As Regal introduced the tournament, he introduced a new competitor: Angel Garza. Garza's opponent? Tommaso Ciampa. While Garza had some innovative offense, Ciampa put Garza away to secure his place in the Round Robin tournament.

Dave Finley was struggling against Keith Lee in the Round Robin Qualifier, but Zelina Vega heads out and gets on the apron, distracting the official, as Andrade smashes a chair to the back of the head of Keith Lee, before hitting La Sombra on the chair and Finley covers Lee.

NXT Champion Adam Cole manages the Guerillas of Destiny to victory against Harada and Kodama, as Cole tells everyone that G.o.D. are coming for the NXT Tag Team Titles.

Dijak puts away Tucker Knight to qualify for the Round Robin tournament.

Regal pulls two young men into his office. Regal lets Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes know they're ready for their NXT debut, and they'll be in the Round Robin qualifier next week against each other. Both are very confident in themselves, yet Regal still wishes them luck. Also announced for next week is Josh Woods and Tom Lawlor face Jaxon Thielen and Logan Brigman with an opportunity for both wrestlers to qualify for the Round Robin tournament.

In the main event, Nick Aldis forces Kona Reeves to submit with a King's Lynn Cloverleaf. Vic Joseph reminds everyone submissions are worth more in the tournament and Aldis looks good headed into the Round Robin tournament.



A reminder:
205 Live debuts in two weeks on Thursday nights, with the Cruiserweight Championship main event of champion Ace Austin defending against Zack Sabre Jr.​

 

[Finishline]

WWE's NXT brand has made a few releases, wishing them well in their future endeavors:
Austin Aries
Brilee Fox
Kaluka Maiava
Ku Mahana
Savanna Gibson
​

---

Further on the release of Austin Aries, it's said his release came about because of the backstage frustrations with Aries. The self-proclaimed "Greatest Man That Ever Lived" took to Twitter saying he'll be back in the ring "very, very soon." Along with all the releases, Aries has a 30-day non-compete clause in his contract.
​

---

Triple H is officially out for an unknown amount of time after receiving surgery on a torn tricep suffered at The Great American Bash. Triple H lost in a triple threat for the WWE Universal Championship. It's understood the match result wasn't changed due to injury, but plans for Triple H at SummerSlam were said to be significant and WWE's writers are scrambling their plans now.
​

---

Angel Garza made his debut on NXT this week in a losing effort to Tommaso Ciampa. With his rights drafted to SmackDown, it's uncertain how long he will be in NXT. Some expect him to just be keeping the ring rust off before he can make his debut. WWE officials are high on him bringing in the Hispanic/Latino demographic.
​

---

Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes made their television debut on NXT this week. With the releases this week, it's understood they're just making room for Theory, Hayes, and other debuting NXT superstars.
​

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205 Live has signed Flash Morgan Webster, Mark Andrews, Samir and Sunil Singh to contracts.​

 

[Finishline]

JULY 16 2018 ~ MONDAY NIGHT RAW
Buffalo, NY​

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman hype up tonight's show:
"Tonight, we make it official! Kevin Owens... Cody Rhodes... this Sunday for the WWE Championship! They'll come face-to-face to sign the contract this evening." - Heyman
"We know this Sunday Bobby Lashley defends his United States Championship, but against who? Finn Balor, Rusev, Murphy, and Shinsuke Nakamura fight for the opportunity at gold." - Cole
"And six nights before her Women's Championship opportunity, Mickie James has the dishonor of facing Emma. She could play spoiler, Cole." - Heyman

The motorcycle revs up and Baron Corbin heads down to the ring. Corbin gets on the mic and references Emperor Roman Reigns getting involved last week. Corbin can't place where Reigns' hatred for him began but knows where this story will end, in Kansas City at Stomping Grounds. Alberto Del Rio interrupts, dressed to compete, and tries putting doubt in the mind of Corbin, saying he's not a King, an Emperor, or the richest man in Mexico. Del Rio measures the price of Corbin's bike with his fancy cars back home. Corbin changes the subject completely, saying he was told Ortiz and Santana would be at ringside, but asks where are they? Del Rio doesn't have an answer, when Corbin says they're catching onto Del Rio's tricks just like Blake and Murphy did, and soon, Del Rio will be all alone. Del Rio takes exception to this and the official comes in to ring the bell.

Alberto Del Rio vs. Baron Corbin
Del Rio wrestles with something to prove, as the monitors show Ortiz and Santana watching from the locker room, and Del Rio's emotions get the best of him and after he couldn't put Corbin away with a Cross Armbreaker (thanks to Baron's long legs) he goes for kicks to the arm. Del Rio pulls Corbin to the center and tries again but gets hit with a Deep Six, followed by the End of Days that puts him down.

Baron Corbin gets his hand raised in victory as the shot from backstage shows disappointment from Ortiz and Santana.

A video package airs on TV featuring the debut of Kane at Badd Blood: In Your House in 1997, followed with flashes from early in his career that includes: winning the WWF Title in 1998, Kane's first WrestleMania against The Undertaker, the Inferno Match against Undertaker in 1998, speaking for the first time, teaming with X-Pac, and the pyrotechnics from the ringpost, all the way to losing the World Heavyweight Championship match against Triple H and unmasking back in 2003. The screen goes black and a red smoke appears and the camera pans from the feet, up to the masked Kane. Viktor walks beside him.
"15 years ago, the WWE Universe were frightened by a face not even a mother could love. But what they didn't know is they wouldn't have to fear that face ever again. Tonight, the New Kane is revealed to you all. And when he is revealed, the locker room will have someone to fear again. John... Glenn... you don't know the death warrant you just signed."

After the commercial Mickie James stands in the ring. James says she can win the Women's Championship this Sunday at Stomping Grounds versus Paige. Mickie credits Paige on bringing back the Women's title, a belt she held 5 times in its original incarnation, only second to the legendary Trish Stratus. Mickie recognizes it's been over 8 years since she's held gold in WWE and knows she's capable of being called the best once again. Emma interrupts Mickie and with her Australian accent calls this unfair that Mickie gets a title opportunity when she's been on a roll. Mickie says that's the reason she's excited to wrestle her tonight. Emma says she'll only step in the ring on one condition: if she beats Mickie, she's added to the match this Sunday. Mickie nods and says that's fair, but it won't happen.

Emma vs. Mickie James
With more on the line than 10 minutes ago, Emma is fighting her way into the Women's Championship match. Midway the Women's Champion Paige joins commentary and takes issue with Mickie willingly accepting another challenger into the match without consulting the champion. Paige takes shots at Mickie being entitled because of veteran status, when she was gone most of the 8 years she was complaining about. Emma puts Mickie in tough situations and Mickie gets put in the Dil-Emma before Emma has to let go at four-and-three-quarters. Mickie sets up perfectly in the corner and gets hit with an Emma Sandwich and gets a shoulder up at 2, but Emma transitions in the Emma Lock. Paige throws her headset down and goes down to the ring shouting at the ref, before Emma lets go and argues with a familiar foe. Mickie gets up and without realizing the distraction, lands a Mick Kick that knocks Emma out cold and she drops to make the cover.

After the match, Paige instantly goes in and attacks Mickie James. Paige throws Mickie to the outside and against the barricade three or four times before locking in the PTO which Mickie taps out to. Officials rush down to break up the submission hold and the Women's Champion finally relents, but she doesn't walk away before she can flaunt the title above Mickie's body headed into Stomping Grounds.

"This attitude from our Women's Champion. Is she threatened by Mickie James? I believe so." - Heyman
"She almost was threatened by Emma as well. Nonetheless, Mickie James and Paige will be in a one-on-one match this Sunday at Stomping Grounds for the Anti-Diva's Women's Championship." - Cole
Standing by with Charly Caruso is Becky Lynch. Caruso asks Lynch about her attack on Rubi Riot last week and Lynch explains the simplicity behind it. Becky says Rubi Riot has attacked her, so she just evened the odds. Becky lets Charly in on a little secret, that she doesn't get even, she wins. Becky challenges Rubi Riot, not to a match this Sunday, but to a fight... two in a Street Fight!

Luke Harper comes to the ring, embarrassed about last week, and Michael Cole points out Harper demanded this rematch against Jordan Devlin.

Luke Harper vs. Jordan Devlin
This time, Devlin doesn't have his mentor Finn Balor at ringside who prepares for the Fatal-4 Way later tonight. Harper is taking his frustrations out on Devlin, but at some point, it's a mental mistake for Harper. Harper went for a suicide dive that Devlin moves out of the way from. Harper takes a moment to collect himself on the outside before sliding back in, simultaneously as Devlin slides out the other end. Harper goes for another suicide dive, but hits the barricade hard. Devlin waits for Harper inside the ring, and dodges a big boot before hitting a sunset flip powerbomb, pinning Harper the exact way he did last week.

Jordan Devlin stands tall in the ring over Harper, who just cowers to the outside after his defeat. The official raises an exuberant hand of Devlin as Harper walks to the back completely dejected.

Just like The Usos have done for Matt Hardy these last several weeks, Matt is hyping them up as they prepare to face The New Day in a matter of moments in a standard 2-on-2 tag team match.

The New Day w/Xavier Woods vs. The Usos w/Matt Hardy
Just like the old days in their rivalry, it's two on two and both teams are giving it their all going into Sunday's Stomping Grounds event. Woods is playing the trombone but Matt threatens him with it a couple times. Towards the end, Jimmy Uso and Big E get the hot tag and they're at odds. Big E hits a Spear to the floor, followed by Jey Uso hitting a crossbody from the top rope to the floor, only to have Kofi Kingston throw his entire body like caution to the wind and land on all three. Woods uses his trombone to hype The New Day up, and Matt begins an Uce-O's chant. Everyone goes wild as Big E and Jimmy are the first to their feet. They go inside the ring and duke it out before Jey hops on the apron and The Usos attempt a Double Uce Splash. Xavier Woods gets on the apron with the trombone for a distraction to Jey, but as he does this, Matt runs over and hits a Twist of Fate on Kofi on the floor. Woods doesn't realize what just happened, but Big E takes advantage of the distraction and grabs Jey Uso from the top rope, pulls him to the center and hits a Big Ending. As E gets up, Jimmy pushes Big E shoulder first into the ring post and schoolboy pins him and gets it successfully, with a little assist from leverage on the ropes!

The Usos steal one! The Usos have beat two-thirds of the WWE Trios Champions. Matt Hardy pulls The Usos away and celebrate going to the back and are ecstatic to have momentum going into Sunday where they hope to end the 14-month reign of The New Day.

Raw General Manager JBL makes his first on-screen appearance tonight walking up to Luke Harper. JBL asks why he's hanging his head low, and before Harper can answer, JBL points out that Harper isn't getting the job done. JBL reminds him he was picked individually to be a star on Raw, but in two months, he's done nothing to prove he's a star. JBL whispers that he's not even Luke Harper. JBL says Luke needs to regain his confidence, away from the Wyatt Family, and he needs to be set free. JBL says the best thing he did for his career was embrace who he truly was, he was John Bradshaw Layfield. JBL encourages Luke to take some time to discover who he is.. and embrace it. JBL leaves Luke Harper backstage to his thoughts.

Finn Balor vs. Murphy vs. Rusev w/Lana vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
United States Champion Bobby Lashley joins Paul Heyman and Michael Cole on commentary for this contest, looking closely at who he could wrestle. Murphy really opens eyes trying to get another shot at Lashley's title after falling short in the Ambulance Match at Extreme Rules. Murphy hits a Murphy's Law on Balor, but Rusev breaks the near pin up. Rusev levels Murphy with a thrust kick and locks in the Accolade. Murphy struggles internally and externally, with the pain and the temptation to submit. Murphy begins to fade and Lana gets excited... but Shinsuke Nakamura runs in with a Kinshasa on Rusev! Nakamura covers Rusev and gets a big win.

After the match, Bobby Lashley let Heyman and Cole know that Nakamura isn't better than his best and can break Nakamura in half. But as Nakamura celebrates, Kane's music hits. The real Kane comes to the ring and mid-entrance is when we go to commercial.

Kane says he's not interested in talking, but he's familiar with mind games, but now it's time for The Fallen to reveal the Impostor Kane. Moments pass, building impatience in the Big Red Machine, before The Fallen's Damian Priest and Aleister Black walk out to the stage and comes Viktor in the middle, holding the symbolic urn. Viktor claims Kane has made a grave mistake. Viktor reminds Kane when he originally unmasked, he lost the mystique and power. Viktor says the opposite would happen, so gives Kane a second chance to reconsider. Viktor suggests the match can still happen this Sunday without revealing the identity. Kane doubles down and shouts into the mic, "I WANNA KNOW," and the lights go out. There's a light shining from the urn from the darkness. Viktor walks to the ring with the lit urn, Black and Priest by his side. Viktor raises the urn up as the lights slowly come back. A red smoke comes from the apron curtains and the lights flicker before they go out. They come back on, Impostor Kane is standing behind the Big Red Machine. Kane turns around and gets chokeslammed by the Impostor! The lights go back out, and when they come back on, a man stands in place of the impostor... Viktor, Priest, and Black step in the ring as the man picks Kane up again and hits a Tombstone Piledriver. Viktor reminds the WWE Universe that betrayal is a common theme for Kane's family, but there's one who knows betrayal better than anyone. Viktor introduces... Judas... JUDAS DEVLIN! A final commercial happens as the lights go out once more.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman react to what happened moments ago, the identity of the Impostor Kane revealed to be... Judas Devlin, as they begin hyping this Sunday's show.
"Viktor has finally revealed 'The Ultimate Betrayer' and the Impostor Kane is Judas Devlin. Judas has his first ever match in WWE this Sunday against a future Hall of Famer, the real Kane." - Cole
"My money was on a Kane winning, but that isn't the case anymore. Judas Devlin has that won." - Heyman
"After winning a fatal-four way earlier tonight, Shinsuke Nakamura challenges Bobby Lashley for the United States Championship." - Cole
"And Becky Lynch threw down the challenge for Rubi Riot earlier tonight. Has she accepted that Cole?" - Heyman
"She has, Paul. It'll be Becky Lynch seeking revenge on Rubi Riot in a Street Fight. That's going to be ugly!" - Cole
"How dare you Cole. How dare you say that about those ladies. They are beautiful and they can kick ass, much like Paige and Mickie James competing for the Women's Championship this Sunday." - Heyman
"Paige had a big statement earlier tonight, claiming she won't lose her title. And after his win over Alberto Del Rio tonight, 'The Lone Wolf' Baron Corbin sets his focus on 'The Emperor' Roman Reigns. These two settle the score in Kansas City." - Cole
"Baron doesn't know what he's riding into. He should leave the bike at home because he might be broken after Sunday. Just like the hopes of The Usos will be broken this Sunday!" - Heyman
"The Usos hope to win the WWE Trios Championships with their childhood hero Matt Hardy against the year-long reigning WWE Trios Champions, The New Day." - Cole
"The New Day have been champions for this long for a reason. Matt Hardy's better years are behind him so this is an easy win for the champions." - Heyman
"I don't know Paul. But what we do know is up next, we make the WWE Championship match official. Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens, this Sunday at Stomping Grounds. Let's send it to the ring." - Cole

JBL stands in the ring and introduces the challenger first, Cody Rhodes. Cody gets the microphone and before he can even speak, Kevin Owens comes out and JBL introduces the WWE Champion. Owens plops down in the chair and Rhodes looks at him. Owens says Rhodes should have enough respect for him to say it to his face. Rhodes harps on the word "respect" saying Owens has never shown him or his father respect, so at Stomping Grounds, he returns the favor and mockingly says "with all due respect" he'll become WWE Champion. Rhodes signs the deal and Owens just laughs.

Owens: "Cody, for all this time, I never knew you were a jokester. You as WWE Champion? That's good stuff, you could do stand-up after I'm done sending your ass to the back of the line. You may be onto something. I don't really respect you, and I never cared for your cross-dressing brother. But I have respect for your father. Dusty is an all-time great. He's a Hall of Famer. He helped get me to the point where I am today. If he was sitting across this table now, I would thank him.

"But it eats you up inside, doesn't it? It eats you up that your daddy helped me. He saw potential. He saw passion and he invested in me. It eats at you that I'm WWE Champion and only knew your father for a brief time, but you've known your dad your whole life and you've never touched this. Your dad gave you genetic abilities and gifts and talents, but it still wasn't enough. Why is that Cody?

"Ask yourself; do you really want this? Or are you just following in the family business? Because from what I can tell, your heart isn't in this business like mine's been for 18 years. So do you really want to win this title on Sunday? Do you want to win? And if you do, it won't be enough, because you're meeting the Prizefighter. But let's be real, you never were WWE Championship material... and neither was your father."

Rhodes reaches over and decks Owens and the two brawl before Owens slides out of the ring. Cody throws the contract and pen at Owens shouting for him to sign. The WWE Champion shouts back, picks the pen and clipboard up, signing the contract to make Sunday's match official. It's far too personal now, and Raw goes off the air.

---

Writers note: With it being a go-home show, I tinkered with a few different things, as well as give some more important things detail, such as the Kane/Impostor Kane and the contract signing segments. Let me know what you think and if there's any way I can improve on the format.

 

[Finishline]

JULY 17 2018 ~ TUESDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania​

John Cena kicks tonight's SmackDown from Wilkes-Barre. Cena notes this is the home state of the General Manager Kurt Angle, and he's found the next big superstar: Jason Jordan. Cena says he has the pleasure of being in Jason Jordan's corner as he looks to claim his first singles gold in WWE. Cena's interrupted by Intercontinental Champion Neville who says Cena is unwelcome at ringside for his title match. Cena laughs before Neville threatens to remove Cena by force. Cena gets serious before Jason Jordan comes out with an official, saying it's time to do this! Cena shrugs and exits to support Jason Jordan in this opener.

Neville(c) vs. Jason Jordan w/John Cena for the Intercontinental Championship
Neville enjoys toying with the less experienced Jason Jordan this match, and mocking a concerned Cena on the outside. Once, Neville tossed Jordan to the outside in front of Cena and hit a corkscrew plancha in Cena's face and dared Cena to punch him. Jordan did get some offense in, like an Angle Slam, but Neville kicked out, as well as attempting for a STF that Neville avoided. Later on, Neville was ready to end it and connected on a few strikes and took his time to the top rope for the Black Arrow. Neville goes for it and Jordan rolls out of the way! Jordan rolls Neville up, but Neville kicks out at 2, and is instantly taken down and put in an Angle Lock. The hold of his hero, Neville rolls out of it, sending Jordan to the corner. Neville gets Jordan to the mat and tries locking in the Rings of Saturn, but as he gets it in, Jordan rolls over and Neville's shoulders are on the mat... the official counts three!

John Cena leaps up and down as Jordan quickly rolls out of the ring. The official hops out as well and chases Jason Jordan down to raise his hand as Cena retrieves the title and hands Jason Jordan the Intercontinental Championship at the stage. Jason Jordan raises it high like the Lombardi trophy as Neville remains in the ring, stunned by the result... he just lost his championship.

Corey Graves and Tom Phillips can't believe the result either! Phillips acknowledges the night is just getting started as Bayley faces the former Matrons Champion Tessa Blanchard... AND the WWE Universal Champion hosts the Peep Show with special guest Edge. Phillips and Graves send it back to Renee Young, standing by with Christian.

Renee Young asks Christian about tonight's Peep Show, and Christian says he told the world last week he can host a talk show better than Edge, just like he could always wrestle a better match. Christian says tonight is not a chance to "expect the unexpected" but rather, he will deliver and the Peep Show expectedly will be the best thing on the show tonight... because he's the WWE Universal Champion and he is the host.

Sami Zayn vs. The Miz
As this match goes on, it's pretty even until Sami Zayn gets the upperhand and looks to close the match out with a Helluva Kick. Zayn charges at The Miz, but Miz pulls the official in the way, restricting his vision. The Miz pokes Zayn in the eye and hits a swinging neckbreaker before measuring up for a Skull Crushing Finale - I'M THE BOOGEYMAN... and I'm coming to GITCHYA! The Miz freezes in fear as he looks around but Zayn hits an Exploder Suplex, as The Miz's momentum backs him into the corner for a Helluva Kick and Zayn connects! Zayn hooks the leg and secures a win.

Sami Zayn looks around as his hand gets raised, confused as everyone else about the Boogeyman's music playing moments ago but no sign of him.

Cesaro heads up to Sheamus backstage and they look back at last week, acknowledging they should've won. Cesaro says he noticed Sheamus faces Tyler Breeze tonight and wants to be in his corner to neutralize Tye Dillinger. Sheamus declines the offer, saying he'll handle Breeze on his own.

Seth Rollins heads to the ring to gloat about costing Dean Ambrose the WWE Universal Championship not once, but twice. Rollins affirms Ambrose will not be WWE Universal Champion as long as he's around, and more importantly, he will be the first of the two to sniff the title. Rollins answers the "why" behind his recent involvement with Ambrose, saying it's simple that even a bunch of Pennsylvanians would understand. As boos fill the arena, Rollins changes his mind and says if people want to know, he'll "tell all" next week in Indiana, a place more worthy than Wilkes-Barre. Rollins slams the microphone down and storms out of the ring with a mixture of his theme song and boos from the crowd.

Renee Young stands by with Matrons Champion Charlotte. Renee asks about Charlotte's cheating to win the title from Tessa Blanchard at the Great American Bash. Charlotte laughs and reminds Renee who her father is. Charlotte eludes to cheating, but never says it outright, but instead says she learned everything from her old man and was taught from a young age to get what you want at all costs. Charlotte sends a message to Blanchard: suck it up.

Big Show and Jeff Hardy vs. The Revival
Big Show returned in June to rescue Hardy from the Maple Leaf Mafia, and tonight they team up again to take on The Revival. The Revival struggle against the Big Show but cut the ring off and focus on Jeff Hardy. Once Hardy gets away and makes the hot tag to Show, the World's Largest Athlete runs through Dawson and Wilder. Big Show's ready to hit the WMD on Dawson before Wilder cuts Show down at the knees and The Revival are wearing down the big man before Hardy jumps back in. Hardy gets rid of Wilder and hits a Twist of Fate on Dawson, trying to score the pin, but is reminded Show is the legal man. Hardy gets back to the apron and waits for Show to get over and tag him. Show finally does and Hardy goes up for a Swanton Bomb but Dawson gets his knees up. Wilder gets in the ring and The Revival hit the Shatter Machine! Dawson hooks the leg and pins Hardy.

The Revival roll out after scoring wins over two future Hall of Famers and hurry up the ramp to bask in their victory there.

John Cena is backstage with the NEW Intercontinental Champion Jason Jordan and they're receiving congratulations from a few people backstage, but notably General Manager Kurt Angle comes in the shot and hugs Jason Jordan's neck tightly. Angle and Jordan embrace as Angle lets Jordan know he's proud of him. Angle thanks Cena for being there, as Cena said it was all Jason Jordan. "Well, well, well," and Bray Wyatt shows up with Erick Rowan behind him. Wyatt congratulates Jason Jordan, saying he won singles gold rather quickly... but meanwhile, Erick Rowan's been here over four years and has never had the opportunity. Cena tells Wyatt to beat it, but Wyatt tells Jordan the first week as champion will dictate how his run's going to go. Wyatt asks if Jason Jordan will be an answer to an obscure trivia question, or if he'll be a fighting champion and give those opportunities like Rowan, say, next week. Angle says he won't sanction the match, but Jason Jordan insists. Jordan says he'll step up to the challenge and begs Angle to accept it, which he does. Bray maniacally laughs and tells Jason he'll see him in 7 days.

Bayley heads out for her match against Tessa Blanchard next, but as the huggers inflate by the entrance way, she's attacked by Tessa Blanchard. Blanchard throws Bayley around ringside, including the barricade several times before throwing her inside the ring. The official asks if Bayley can go and she insists.

Bayley vs. Tessa Blanchard
Despite the prematch attack, Bayley's putting up a good fight but Blanchard wants to get frustrations out after she was cheated of her title at The Great American Bash. Blanchard beats a worthy competitor in Bayley, using Magnum and sending a message to Charlotte, using the Figure Four and having Bayley tap out.

Tessa Blanchard gets up and immediately signals the title around her waist, putting Charlotte on notice.

Cutting to Kurt Angle's office, The Miz is whining about the Boogeyman costing him a chance to beat Sami Zayn earlier tonight. The Miz is demanding a rematch when Daniel Bryan walks in, and after catching a bit of The Miz complaining, Bryan tells Miz to shut up. Bryan says turnabout is fair play when he cheated last week in their match. Angle breaks up a shouting match and decides to grant The Miz his request. Angle announced The Miz will have a rematch next week... against Daniel Bryan. Bryan laughs and The Miz goes berserk as we cut away.

Sheamus vs. Tyler Breeze w/Tye Dillinger
Sheamus early on is brutalizing Tyler Breeze, overtaking the match with his in-ring style. But as soon as Dillinger has a chance to get involved he does as Breeze complains of a broken nose and distracts the official long enough for Dillinger to hop on the apron. Sheamus goes after Dillinger and the distraction allows for Breeze to pop up and dropkick Sheamus to the outside, in which Dillinger pushes Sheamus into the steel steps and changes the match. Towards the end, Sheamus tries going for a Brogue Kick but Dillinger slides in the ring and as the official argues with him, Cesaro runs down and tackles Dillinger out of the ring. The official's back is turned and as Sheamus goes for a Brogue, Breeze slides underneath and tries hitting a kick below the belt, but Sheamus blocks it and hits a Brogue Kick! Sheamus gets the ref's attention and makes the cover.

Sheamus has no time to celebrate as he stares down Cesaro, who got inside the ring beside Sheamus. Sheamus isn't fond of the help received from Cesaro and the Celtic Warrior leaves the ring ungrateful.

Tom Phillips and Corey Graves recap a special night thus far with a new Intercontinental Champion crowned. Phillips reminds us that in addition to that, Jason Jordan has his first title defense next week against Erick Rowan! Graves suggests it might be short lived. In addition, The Miz gets his "rematch" but against Daniel Bryan. AND Seth Rollins promises to explain costing Dean Ambrose the WWE Universal Championship, not once, but twice! Graves and Phillips cut away for their final commercial break for them to set up for The Peep Show with special guest... Edge!

WWE Universal Champion Christian stands in the ring back from commercial and welcomes everyone to the Peep Show, shouting out to all the peeps out there! Christian says the big mistake Edge made last week was waiting forever to introduce his guest, so he introduces Edge as an 11-time world champion, 14-time tag team champion, a former King of the Ring, a former Royal Rumble winner, the first ever Mr. Money in the Bank, and a Hall of Famer... EDGE! Edge walks down hiding a smile and Christian immediately pats himself on the back for his intro, as Edge says thank you.

Christian: "You've had a hell of a career, and a shortened one at that. That's why you're in the Hall of Fame and have been for several years. Much like Stone Cold Steve Austin, Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels. The people who are done and the company has moved on from."

After receiving boos from the crowd, Christian asks the last time they've seen either of those men in a WWE ring, and the crowd keeps booing.

Christian: "When you retired, you were World Heavyweight Champion. I remember watching you at WrestleMania, beating Alberto Del Rio, I was there by your side. But your neck was too fragile and you retired. How does that feel to go out on top?"

Edge tries to answer, but Christian doesn't allow a word in.

Christian: "On one hand, it's a fairytale ending. On the other, it's got to eat at you. What could've been? What if my neck held up? You could have been the face of WWE for four, five more years. Instead, that's gone.

"But on the bright side, you can live your dreams vicariously through me. I'm on top now. Since you've been gone, I'm on my third run as world champion. And I'm glad. Because quite frankly, your big ego doesn't cast a shadow over me anymore."

"See Adam... can I call you Adam? To be honest with you, you've lost your 'edge.' You're not the guy anymore. You're not the Rated-R Superstar. You're not the Ultimate Opportunist. On this day, you gotta see clearly. It's my world now. It's my ring now. SmackDown is my show. This is my universe. And tonight's Peep Show was to do two things. One, it was a nice payday for you and the girls, so you're welcome. And two-"

Edge smacks the mic out of Christian's hand and Christian twitches.

Edge: "Jay... we're using real names now? If you ever bring up my family again, so help me."

Christian snatches the mic out of Edge's hand.

Christian: "OR WHAT... huh?! Or what? You couldn't touch me without the fear of being paralyzed for life. I'm at the top of this profession and you're bad bones. If you so much as swing at me, I'd put you down for good."

Edge mouths the words "I'm done" and starts walking away.

Christian: "What's the matter Adam? What's wrong? You don't leave this ring til I dismiss you!"

Edge stops at the ropes and can't look Christian in the eye.

Christian: "You've missed a lot. You haven't wrestled in what, six years? Seven years? You wore a suit for a second and couldn't do that right. Let me catch you up. I am the reigning WWE Universal Champion. I retired Kurt Angle at WrestleMania. I am the biggest draw in sports entertainment. I've worked my ass off to get here. I fought so long to be the guy.. to make YOU Marty Jannetty!

"Now my face is on the posters. My merchandise gets sold. I'm the main event. So do me a favor Adam. If you're genuinely happy for your best friend, the man you grew up with, then you'd apologize for holding me back. You'll apologize for keeping me hidden this long. I'll stay here holding my own on Smackdown, and you can go hold your girls. But if you think for a second you can walk out MY ring without issuing the apology I deserve, you better not show up to my workplace as long as I'm champion. Because if you do, your little girls will be spoon-feeding you applesauce the rest of your life."

GASP! Edge charges and hits a SPEAR on Christian! Edge hits his first Spear since retirement. Christian rolls out of the ring clutching his ribs, writhing in pain as Edge has snapped. Edge simmers in the ring for a moment before looking for the microphone and picks it up. Edge leans over the ropes, locking eyes with Christian who sits against the barricade.

Edge: "Ever since I was rudely interrupted last week, and since you've been running your mouth tonight, I've been waiting to say this...

...

....

"I'm cleared."

The place nearly shakes as Christian's face turns completely white. The fans roar for a good 35-40 seconds before Edge puts the mic back up to his mouth.

Edge: "And at SummerSlam... I'm going to beat you and become world champion AGAIN!"

The place erupts! Edge's music hits and he lets out a big shout as he shakes the ropes and gets hype with the rest of the WWE Universe. Edge gets up on the second rope and strikes his signature pose as Christian looks on with great regret, thinking what he's done, as SmackDown goes off the air.

 

[Finishline]

NXT Updates (Wednesday):

At the top of the show last week, William Regal announced a new championship, the NXT North American Championship. Regal announced the inaugural champion will be crowned with a ROUND ROBIN tournament. The rules are re-explained again by the commentary team of Byron Saxton and Vic Joseph:
There are two pools of four competitors, eight total
Pool A: Wrestler 1, 2, 3, and 4
Pool B: Wrestler 5, 6, 7, and 8

Each wrestler in their designated pool wrestle each other once. Pinfall victories will count as 2 points, submission victories will count as 3. DQ/count-out victories will count as 1 point, while wrestlers who suffer DQ/count-out losses will lose 1 point. At NXT Takeover in Brooklyn next month, the wrestlers with the most points in their respective pool will compete to become the inaugural NXT North American Champion.

Dave Finley, Dijak, Nick Aldis, and Tommaso Ciampa all qualified last week and now we have qualifiers this week, beginning with two people making their debuts.

Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes fight out for their first NXT win and a spot in the Round Robin tournament, but it's 'Melo hitting a Fedora Frog Splash and pinning Theory to secure the win and the spot.

The NXT Tag Team Champions Cedric Alexander and Moose compete in a match against Otis Dozier and Powerhouse Hobbs with Moose beating Hobbs with the G2H, and after the match The Industry attack the champions. Cole, Tonga, and Loa take out Alexander initially with pushing him into the steel steps and execute a 3-on-1 assault on Moose in the ring. Alexander joins the fray until Pete Dunne's music hits and Dunne chases The Industry away by swinging a crowbar.

Andrade "Cien" Almas and Zelina Vega are receiving an interview from Sophia and asks about their recent interactions with Keith Lee. Zelina Vega says the NXT fans don't see the real side of Keith Lee, but they do, and they'll expose him for what he truly is - and Keith Lee runs in and starts a fight with Andrade. They brawl before security has to separate them and Zelina Vega pulls Andrade away.

In a tag team qualifier for the Round Robin, it's Josh "The Goods" Woods and "Filthy" Tom Lawlor using their mat wrestling skills to trap Logan Brigman in a pin, preventing Brigman and Jaxon Thielen from advancing. Celebrating quickly turns into defense mood as Woods and Lawlor realize they might face one another for the right to become the first ever NXT North American Champion.

After seeing Sonya Deville tap out Lakyn Machisma with the rear naked choke, The Clink recall Kairi Sane being pinned by Bianca Belair in six-woman tag action two weeks ago, and believes that means a title opportunity. Bianca says she wants a title opportunity, but Britt Baker respectfully says it'll be her and they argue back and forth before Sonya Deville breaks it up. Chelsea Green comes and says they haven't pinned her, and challenges any of them to a singles match next week, which Britt Baker accepts.

Rich Swann and Dinastia go toe-to-toe in the main event and it's Swann picking up the win with an Inverted 450 Splash, getting the final spot in the Round Robin tournament! The tourney officially kicks off on next week's NXT.



A reminder:
205 Live debuts NEXT WEEK on Thursday night, with the Cruiserweight Championship main event of champion Ace Austin defending against NXT's Zack Sabre Jr.

During the NXT broadcast, Chavo Guerrero was interviewed via satellite by Vic Joseph and Byron Saxton. There were a couple matches added by the 205 Live General Manager:
Kip Sabian and Marty Scurll team up to face Mansoor and Mustafa Ali in a rematch from the Cruiserweight Classic Finale, due to underhanded tactics by Sabian and Scurll.

Trey Miguel, who fell short in the finals to Ace Austin, will have a round-of-32 rematch against Tony Nese.

More matches will be added, and while the show will consistently be a 1-hour episode, next week's 205 Live debut will be a 2-hour special.​