Home Blog Page 1852

Rob Van Dam to Debut for ICW

Jake Skudder
-
5

Insane Championship Wrestling has announced that former WWE/ECW star Rob Van Dam will debut for the company at Fear & Loathing X on November 19th. RVD’s opponent for the show will be ICW veteran Lionheart.

Also currently announced for ICW’s premiere event are:

  • Kevin Nash
  • Rey Mysterio
  • Joe Coffey
  • Wolfgang
  • Jack Jester

Tickets are available the purchase via Ticketmaster now.

https://twitter.com/InsaneChampWres/status/904806945068126209

Zack Sabre Jr Issues Open Challenge for PROGRESS Chapter 55

Jake Skudder
-
0

PROGRESS’ biggest show of the year happens this Sunday at Alexandra Palace in London. Chapter 55 – Chase the Sun will take place in front of a sold out crowd and is set to be one of the most monumental in company history.

The latest announcement for the show is that New Japan Pro Wrestling star Zack Sabre Jr will be issuing an open challenge for the event. The speculation regarding his opponent has been rife however there is one name that has been cropping up more frequently than others….’The Villain’ Marty Scurll. Marty has been noticeably absent from PROGRESS these last few months and a return would be more than welcomed for the former PROGRESS World Champion.

Ronda Rousey Challenges WWE’s Four Horsewomen

Jake Skudder
-
12

It seems as though Ronda Rousey is getting closer and closer to stepping in a WWE ring.

The former UFC Champion was in attendance for the Mae Young Classic and she confronted Bayley, Becky Lynch and Charlotte following Shayna Baszler‘s second round match.

Rousey and the ‘MMA Horsewomen’ spoke to WWE.com outside Full Sail University following the encounter but were interrupted by the aforementioned WWE superstars.

Rousey approached Charlotte and stated “You name the time, you name the place.” When there was no response from Charlotte, Rousey said, “Oh, not today? We’re waiting to hear from you.”

WrestleMania 34 next April sounds like a logical venue for this high-profile match. Ronda Rousey’s days in the Octagon most likely done and the former UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion reportedly training in the ring with WWE Cruiserweight Brian Kendrick.

Both Rousey and WWE have spoken publicly about the possibility of working together in recent months. During an appearance on ESPN’s First Take last week, Triple H said WWE is prepared to make Rousey an offer to step inside the squared circle.

“Ronda has been a huge fan of WWE her whole life, she’s been very adamant about that,” he said. “She’s done stuff with us before. She’s a huge fan. It’s something that I think she’s definitely interested in and I’ll throw it out right now, if she’s interested, I’ll give her the opportunity.”

WWE RAW Recap & Reaction (9/4)

Robert Lentini
-
37

John Cena vs Jason Jordan

Footage of John Cena’s debut match on June 27th, 2002 was shown. Cena faced Angle in the match on SmackDown.

Jordan took Cena down quickly and went for a pinfall but Cena kicked out at one. Jordan once again took Cena to the mat and went for another cover but Cena kicked out. Jordan locked his arms around Cena and once again took him to the canvas. Cena powered to his feet and broke free. Cena charged at Jordan but once again Jordan took Cena back down to the mat.

Cena threw Jordan across the ring but Jordan was unfazed and yet again dragged Cena to the canvas. Cena elbowed Jordan in the face and followed it up with a right hand for a one count. Cena applied a Chin Lock in the middle of the ring. Jordan broke free but Cena caught him with a right hand. Cena planted Jordan with a Suplex and lurked over him.

Jordan slowly got back to his feet and Cena greeted him with a punch to the face. Cena launched Jordan into the turnbuckle as RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Jordan was in control and connected with a Belly to Belly Suplex. Jordan charged at Cena in the corner but John avoided it and Jordan slammed into the ring post. Cena hit a shoulder tackle but Jordan responded with a Dropkick for a two count.

Dueling “lets go Cena” and “Cena sucks” broke out as the two Superstars traded punches in the ring. Cena rolled up Jordan for a two count and then slammed him to the mat. Cena posed for the crowd and connected with the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena went for the Attitude Adjustment but Jordan reversed it into a roll-up for a two count. Cena then quickly locked in the STF in the middle of the ring.

Jordan escaped the STF and applied a Crossface. Cena powered out of the hold and lifted Jordan up on his shoulder for the Attitude Adjustment. Jordan countered it into two great looking Northern Lights Suplexes in a row for a two count.

Jordan speared Cena in the corner and brought his singlet straps down. Jordan charged at Cena but John was ready and he slammed Jordan to the mat. Cena then hit an Attitude Adjustment for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Jordan and Cena shared a hug in a show of sportsmanship. Roman Reigns’ music hit and the Big Dog made his way down the entrance ramp as RAW went to another commercial break.

Winner: John Cena

Reaction: Jason Jordan looked very good in this bout and this was a great match to kick off this week’s episode of RAW.

Roman Reigns was in the ring with Cena when RAW returned from a commercial break. Reigns said that he had one question for Cena and that was why did it take him over 20 minutes to defeat a rookie. Reigns said that if Cena was as good as he said he was, he would have defeated him quickly. Reigns said that either Cena let him stay in the match or Cena just isn’t as good as he thinks he is.

Reigns once again called Cena a “lying, fake-ass little bitch”. Cena said that Reigns had his fly open and Reigns said he busted it open because he is the “Big Dog”. Cena stated that he was just looking for his balls and noticed that he doesn’t have any. Reigns quickly retorted that Cena would be looking for his balls.

Cena said that Reigns needs to taught a lesson in respect and Cena will do that at No Mercy. Cena stated that guys like Jason Jordan, Chad Gable and The Miz have to scratch and claw every week and called Reigns a golden boy. Cena said that he doesn’t respect Reigns. Cena continued and said that the only person living a lie in the ring right now is Roman Reigns. Cena stated that Reigns calls himself “The Guy” and it is obvious that the crowd doesn’t agree with him.

Cena asked Reigns if he needed to beat some common sense into him and Reigns dared him to do it. The crowd chanted “yes!” and Reigns asked the crowd if they wanted to see Cena beat his ass and the crowd erupted. Reigns stated that this was Cena’s moment to finally back up his big mouth.

Cena leaned up against the ropes and Reigns accused Cena of being all-talk. Reigns stated that is why he doesn’t respect Cena and then left the ring as Cena smirked and shook his head.

Reaction: The exchange about Reigns’ zipper being open was hilarious. I’m thoroughly enjoying the build-up to this match at No Mercy on September 24th. I think Roman Reigns is the only guy on the WWE Universe that can cause the entire crowd to get behind John Cena in a feud.

RAW Tag Team Champions Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose joined commentary.

Sheamus & Cesaro vs Heath Slater & Rhyno

Cesaro was shouting at Rollins and Ambrose at the announce table and Slater used the distraction to try and roll-up Cesaro. It didn’t work as Cesaro kicked out at two and then Slater promptly got his ass kicked for the next few minutes. Slater finally battled back and threw Cesaro out of the ring. Slater tried to tag Rhyno but Cesaro got back in the ring and prevented it.

Slater connected with a kick to Cesaro’s face and was then able to tag in Rhyno. Sheamus was tagged in as well but Rhyno slammed him into the turnbuckle. Rhyno slammed Sheamus to the mat and Cesaro broke up the pinfall. Rhyno then Clotheslined Cesaro out of the ring but turned around into a big Brogue Kick from Sheamus for the pinfall victory.

Sheamus and Cesaro posed in the ring and stared at Rollins and Ambrose at the announce table after the match.

Winners: Sheamus & Cesaro

Renee Young interviewed The Hardy Boyz backstage. Jeff Hardy discussed his Intercontinental Championship match against The Miz. Hardy said that it would be pretty cool if his daughter got to see him become the new IC Champion. Matt Hardy warned the Miztourage that they will be on the receiving end of a Twist of Fate if they try to get involved in the match tonight.

Intercontinental Championship: The Miz (c) vs Jeff Hardy

Jeff went for a roll-up right away but The Miz kicked out at two. Jeff leveled Miz with a shoulder tackle and then attempted a backslide pin but Miz kicked out at two. Hardy once again went for a roll-up but Miz kicked out at two. Jeff Hardy Clotheslined Miz out of the ring. Hardy bounced off the ropes and was about to leap onto The Miz and the Miztourage outside the ring but everyone scattered away. RAW went to a commercial break with Jeff Hardy in control of the match and The Miz trying to regroup outside the ring.

When RAW returned, Jeff connected with a Jawbreaker to The Miz in the ring. Jeff followed it up with a Facebuster for a two count. Jeff connected with Whisper in the Wind for a two count.

Jeff went to the top rope for a Swanton Bomb but Curtis Axel shoved him down while Bo Dallas distracted the ring. Matt Hardy then beatdown both Bo and Curtis Axel outside the ring. The referee then ejected Bo, Axel and Matt from ringside.

Back in the ring, Jeff hit an Atomic Drop and went for a Leg Drop but Miz blocked it and planted Jeff with a DDT for a two count. Hardy went for a roll-up but once again Miz kicked out. Miz connected with a running knee but Hardy kicked out at two. The Miz hit a few kicks but then was booted into the corner by Hardy. Jeff then hit a Dropkick to Miz’s midsection for a two count.

The Miz knocked Jeff off the ring apron and Hardy crashed to the floor outside the ring. The Miz brought Jeff back into the ring and went for the cover but Jeff kicked out. The Miz locked in the Figure Four in the middle of the ring. Jeff fought through the pain and reached the bottom rope to break the hold.

Jeff hit a Stunner and went for the cover but Miz grabbed the bottom rope to break up the pinfall. Miz then crawled outside the ring but got a Dropkick to the face for his troubles. Hardy then leaped off the steel steps onto Miz and both Superstars crashed into the barricade. Jeff then brought Miz back into the ring and climbed up the turnbuckle.

Jeff Hardy went for the Swanton Bomb but The Miz was able to get out of the way because Maryse alerted him and Jeff crashed to the canvas. Jeff went for the Twist of Fate but The Miz countered it into the Skull Crushing Finale for the pinfall victory.

Winner & Still Intercontinental Champion: The Miz

Reaction: I enjoyed this match. I hope that a feud develops out of this and it wasn’t just a throwaway match because I’d like to see this match again with more time given to it. The Intercontinental Championship has been lost in the shuffle recently on RAW, so it was good to see the title defended tonight.

Nia Jax confronted RAW GM Kurt Angle backstage. Nia was pissed off about Sasha Banks getting another shot at the RAW Women’s Championship at WWE No Mercy. Angle informed Nia that Sasha was entitled to a rematch for her title. Emma interrupted and said that she was going to start a new hashtag “give Emma chance at the women’s title”. Nia Jax got pissed off and Kurt Angle stepped in between them.

Angle then announced a tag team match for later tonight. It will be Nia Jax & Emma versus Sasha Banks & Alexa Bliss. If Nia Jax and Emma are victorious, they will be added to the RAW Women’s Championship match at No Mercy and it will become a Fatal 4-Way.

Noam Dar, Tony Nese & Drew Gulak vs Enzo Amore, Cedric Alexander & Gran Metalik

Enzo Amore cut a promo before the match and poked fun at Dar, Nese and Gulak.

Nese and Alexander started off the match. Alexander connected with a Dropkick and Enzo tagged himself in. Enzo knocked Nese to the mat and then walked across his back. Enzo then started dancing in the ring while dodging a couple of Nese’s punches.

Nese bashed Enzo’s head off the turnbuckle and then tagged in Drew Gulak. Drew was pissed off because Enzo called him “Captain Underpants” during his promo. Gulak applied an Arm Bar but Enzo battled his way to his feet. Enzo tried to tag out but Gulak booted him in the chest and slung him to the mat.

Dar was tagged in and he continued the beatdown of Amore. Dar threw Enzo to the corner and then tagged Nese back in. Nese launched Enzo to the corner and Dar was knocked off the ring apron in the process. Enzo connected with a kick to Dar’s head outside the ring and then avoided Drew Gulak.

Enzo tagged in Alexander and Cedric connected with a kick to Gulak’s face. Alexander and Metalik flipped onto Dar and Nese outside the ring. Enzo tagged himself in once again. The referee was distracted and Enzo poked Gulak in the eye and slammed him to the mat for the pinfall victory.

Winners: Enzo Amore, Cedric Alexander & Gran Metalik

Sasha Banks and Alexa Bliss were shown backstage. Bliss told Sasha to put her ego aside for the tag match later tonight so that they could keep Nia and Emma out of the title match. Sasha said that they will be victorious tonight and then Sasha was going to make Alexa scream at No Mercy when she locks in the Bank Statement.

Finn Balor came down to the ring and cut a promo. Balor said that the NXT Championship and Universal Championship looked good around his waist and the IC Title would have looked good as well but Bray Wyatt cost him his opportunity last week during the Battle Royal. Balor said that he doesn’t run from his demons and that sometimes he becomes them.

Bray Wyatt appeared on the jumbotron. Wyatt stated that he started hunting with his bare hands as a child and showed his prey “no mercy”. Wyatt claimed that Balor wasn’t victorious over him at SummerSlam, The Demon was. Wyatt said that he didn’t want to face The Demon at No Mercy, he wanted to face Finn Balor. Bray referred to himself as a god and Balor as a mere mortal. The segment ended with Wyatt saying “run little rabbit, run” to Balor before the lights cut out.

Reaction: This feud doesn’t interest me at all and I just want it to be over. I thought their match at WWE SummerSlam was decent and thought that was the end of it. The feud features two underutilized and talented Superstars fighting over nothing. Finn Balor now has to prove that he can defeat Bray Wyatt without walking down to the ring with makeup on at No Mercy. It doesn’t sound like much of a challenge because all Bray Wyatt does is cut overly scripted promos and lose matches nowadays.

Sasha Banks & Alexa Bliss vs Nia Jax & Emma

Nia Jax and Sasha Banks started off the match. Nia slammed Sasha to the canvas and Emma tagged herself in. Emma beatdown Banks in the corner and then went for the cover but Sasha kicked out at one. Emma connected with a Dropkick for a two count.

Emma leveled Banks with a Clothesline for a two count. Alexa looked pissed off on the ring apron as Emma continued to beat the hell out of Sasha. Banks finally was able to get in some offense and made her way to the corner to tag in the RAW Women’s Champion.

Emma booted Alexa in the face but Bliss responded with a flurry of punches to Emma’s face. Bliss then tagged in Sasha and she hit Double Knees for a two count. Emma desperately tried to tag in Nia but Sasha dragged her back to the corner. Alexa was then tagged in and she and Banks connected with a double Suplex on Emma for a two count.

Bliss beatdown Emma in the corner and then applied a Chin Lock. Emma broke free but Bliss grabbed her by the throat and threw her to the canvas. Alexa climbed to the top rope but Emma rolled to the opposite corner of the ring. Alexa jumped down and Emma connected with a Jawbreaker.

Nia was then tagged in and Alexa slapped her in the face. Nia then let out an angry scream and Bliss responded by screaming out of pure terror.

Nia then knocked Alexa to the mat but Bliss got back up and slapped her in the face again. Nia connected with a Samoan Drop and went for the cover but Sasha broke it up.

Nia charged at Alexa in the corner but Bliss dodged her and tagged in Sasha. Banks went for a Crossbody but Nia caught her. Sasha escaped and hit the Shining Wizard for a two count. Nia hit a shoulder tackle and then bounced off the ropes and Emma tagged herself in. Nia then hit a Leg Drop and Emma pinned Sasha Banks for the victory.

After the match, Nia Jax planted Emma with the Samoan Drop. Alexa Bliss will now defend her Raw Women’s Championship against Sasha Banks, Emma and Nia Jax at WWE No Mercy.

Winners: Nia Jax & Emma

Reaction: This match was entertaining. WWE seems to be building up Nia Jax to finally have a run with the RAW Women’s Championship. I still don’t understand why Sasha Banks won the title at SummerSlam, only to drop it back to Alexa Bliss eight days later. I would have preferred to just see a match between Alexa Bliss and Nia Jax for the title at No Mercy. I will say that I’m glad this match turned into a Fatal 4-Way, rather than another match between Banks and Bliss. I’m getting tired of the constant rematches.

Braun Strowman was interviewed backstage. Strowman vowed to hurl Big Show into the steel cage tonight during their Steel Cage match tonight. Braun said that he doesn’t see Kurt Angle sticking Brock Lesnar in a cage match before No Mercy. Strowman stated that no matter where the monster among men goes, destruction follows.

Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose vs Gallows & Anderson

Sheamus and Cesaro were ringside for this match. Gallows controlled the match early and beatdown Dean Ambrose. Dean connected with a Dropkick and tagged in Rollins. Seth then hit a Dropkick of his own. Ambrose and Rollins then leaped onto Gallows and Anderson outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, Gallows and Anderson were back in control and took turns beating down Dean Ambrose. Anderson leveled Ambrose with a Clothesline for a two count. Anderson connected with a Neckbreaker for a two count. Anderson perched Ambrose up on the top rope and hit him with a few right hands. Ambrose booted Anderson off the turnbuckle and Gallows tagged himself in.

Ambrose connected with a Lunatic Lariat that knocked Gallows to the mat. Anderson was then tagged in and Ambrose tagged in Rollins. Seth booted Anderson in the face and hit a Blockbuster. Seth hit a Crossbody to Gallows outside the ring then quickly hit a Slingblade on Anderson back in the ring.

Ambrose hit a Suicide Dive onto Gallows outside the ring. Cesaro and Sheamus hopped up on the ring apron. Rollins threw Anderson into Cesaro on the apron and Cesaro fell to the floor. Rollins then rolled up Anderson for the victory.

After the match, Anderson and Gallows knocked Sheamus and Cesaro out of the ring. A brawl then broke out between the two teams. Sheamus leveled Anderson with a Brogue Kick and then Sheamus & Cesaro Clotheslined Gallows out of the ring.

Winners: Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose

Neville mockingly clapped as he approached Enzo Amore, Cedric Alexander and Gran Metalik backstage. Neville stated that he just spoke to RAW GM Kurt Angle and announced that there will be a Fatal 5-Way Elimination match tomorrow night on 205 Live. Metalik, Alexander and Amore will be in the match. The winner of that match will challenge Neville for the Cruiserweight Championship.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/904897611865309184

Big Show was interviewed backstage. Big Show said that he has had more steel cages matches in his career than Braun Strowman has had matches. Big Show vowed to Chokeslam Braun Strowman to hell and walk out victorious.

Steel Cage Match: Big Show vs Braun Strowman

Strowman booted Big Show in the face to start off the match. Strowman then bashed Big Show into the steel cage while he was caught between the cage and the ropes. Strowman then hit three Splashes in a row onto Strowman. Braun went for a fourth but Big Show hit a Knockout Punch and Strowman fell to the canvas as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, both Superstars were on the mat. Both men got back to their feet and Strowman charged at Big Show. Strowman missed and went flying into the cage. Big Show then grabbed Strowman by the head and bashed him into the steel cage.

Big Show slammed him into the cage once more and Big Show taunted Strowman. Big Show then lifted Braun up and threw him into the cage. Big Show started climbing up the cage and Braun joined him. Big Show and Strowman started trading shots as they stood on the top rope.

Braun knocked Big Show down and he landed crotch-first on the top rope. Big Show got his revenge by shoving Strowman and Braun fell crotch-first onto the top rope as well. Big Show once again started climbing but Braun got back to his feet. Big Show booted Braun in the face and then hit a massive Elbow Drop off the top rope.

The crowd chanted “holy sh*t!” as both Superstars were on the mat. The chant then quickly converted to a “this is awesome” chant as Big Show attempted a pinfall. Strowman kicked out at the last moment and both Superstars were still on the canvas. Big Show slowly crawled towards the cage door as it was opened. Strowman hobbled over to Big Show and slammed the steel cage door onto Big Show’s head.

Braun walked over Big Show and tried to exit the cage via the door but Big Show grabbed the door and slammed it across Strowman’s face. Big Show leveled Strowman with a shoulder tackle and both Superstars fell to the canvas. Big Show was the first one up and raised his hand in preparation for the Chokeslam. Strowman reversed it into a DDT for a two count.

Strowman and Big Show traded punches while they were on their knees. Both men powered to their feet and traded more punches. Strowman hit a headbutt but Big Show was unfazed and planted him with a Chokeslam for a two count. Big Show stood up and geared up for the Knockout Punch. Big Show missed and Strowman lifted Big Show up on his shoulders. Big Show escaped and hurled Strowman into the steel cage.

Big Show once again started climbing up the cage surrounding the ring. Strowman clubbed Big Show across the back and joined Big Show on the top rope. Big Show slammed Strowman’s head into the cage three times and Braun crashed to the mat. Big Show was about to climb out of the cage but Braun grabbed his legs and dragged him back down to the ring apron. Strowman then connected with a Splash to Big Show’s back and he smashed face-first into the cage.

Big Show once again climbed up to the top rope. Big Show met him there and punched him in the face with a right hand. Big Show headbutted Strowman off the turnbuckle and Braun fell to the canvas. Braun got back to his feet and punched Big Show in the face again. Strowman hit a massive Suplerplex off the top rope and the ring didn’t collapse this time.

Braun got back up and posed in the corner. Strowman lifted Big Show up onto his shoulders and planted him a Running Powerslam for the pinfall victory.

After the match, Strowman grabbed a microphone and called out Brock Lesnar. Strowman stood over Big Show and said that this was Lesnar’s future. Strowman then vowed to become the new Universal Champion at WWE No Mercy.

Strowman grabbed Big Show and said “it is time to go to pasture old man”. Strowman then lifted Big Show up and hit a Running Powerslam through the cage. A panel of the cage collapsed and Big Show fell to the floor.

Winner: Braun Strowman

Reaction: The highlight of the match for me was Big Show connecting with an Elbow Drop off the top rope. Braun Strowman lifted Big Show up like he was nothing during this match, it was remarkable to see. I cannot wait for the Universal Championship match between Lesnar and Strowman at WWE No Mercy.

What did you think of this week’s episode of RAW? Let us know in the comments below.

Fatal 4-Way For RAW Women’s Championship Announced For WWE No Mercy

Robert Lentini
-
10

It was announced on RAW that Sasha Banks will get her rematch for the RAW Women’s Championship against Alexa Bliss at WWE No Mercy.

Nia Jax confronted RAW GM Kurt Angle backstage. Nia was pissed off about Sasha Banks getting another shot at the RAW Women’s Championship at WWE No Mercy. Angle informed Nia that Sasha was entitled to a rematch for her title. Emma interrupted and said that she was going to start a new hashtag “give Emma chance at the women’s title”. Nia Jax got pissed off and Kurt Angle stepped in between them.

Angle then announced a tag team match for later tonight. It will be Nia Jax & Emma versus Sasha Banks & Alexa Bliss. If Nia Jax and Emma are victorious, they will be added to the RAW Women’s Championship match at No Mercy and it will become a Fatal 4-Way.

Sasha Banks & Alexa Bliss vs Nia Jax & Emma

Nia Jax and Sasha Banks started off the match. Nia slammed Sasha to the canvas and Emma tagged herself in. Emma beatdown Banks in the corner and then went for the cover but Sasha kicked out at one. Emma connected with a Dropkick for a two count.

Emma leveled Banks with a Clothesline for a two count. Alexa looked pissed off on the ring apron as Emma continued to beat the hell out of Sasha. Banks finally was able to get in some offense and made her way to the corner to tag in the RAW Women’s Champion.

Emma booted Alexa in the face but Bliss responded with a flurry of punches to Emma’s face. Bliss then tagged in Sasha and she hit Double Knees for a two count. Emma desperately tried to tag in Nia but Sasha dragged her back to the corner. Alexa was then tagged in and she and Banks connected with a double Suplex on Emma for a two count.

Bliss beatdown Emma in the corner and then applied a Chin Lock. Emma broke free but Bliss grabbed her by the throat and threw her to the canvas. Alexa climbed to the top rope but Emma rolled to the opposite corner of the ring. Alexa jumped down and Emma connected with a Jawbreaker.

Nia was then tagged in and Alexa slapped her in the face. Nia then let out an angry scream and Bliss responded by screaming out of pure terror.

Nia then knocked Alexa to the mat but Bliss got back up and slapped her in the face again. Nia connected with a Samoan Drop and went for the cover but Sasha broke it up.

Nia charged at Alexa in the corner but Bliss dodged her and tagged in Sasha. Banks went for a Crossbody but Nia caught her. Sasha escaped and hit the Shining Wizard for a two count. Nia hit a shoulder tackle and then bounced off the ropes and Emma tagged herself in. Nia then hit a Leg Drop and Emma pinned Sasha Banks for the victory.

After the match, Nia Jax planted Emma with the Samoan Drop. Alexa Bliss will now defend her Raw Women’s Championship against Sasha Banks, Emma and Nia Jax at WWE No Mercy.

Winners: Nia Jax & Emma

Edge & Christian React To John Cena – Roman Reigns RAW Segment

Jon Fuentes
-
3

Last week on Monday Night RAW, Roman Reigns and John Cena laid out the groundwork for their newly formed feud with one another as they approach their one-on-one match at the upcoming No Mercy pay-per-view (PPV). Former WWE Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian took to their podcast, E&C’s Pod Of Awesomeness, to react to the segment. Here’s what they had to say about Cena and Reigns’ exchange:

Christian:

“I like them to feel organic, in a sense. Do you know what I mean? Where it’s not scripted and I did feel like I don’t think they’re the type of promo that should be done a lot. Do you know what I mean? And I think it’s kind of the right time for something like this to happen. And they addressed a lot of the things and sometimes when things are addressed that are on the internet or out there in the dirtsheets, brother, that sometimes they ignore it or pay no attention to it or whatever, which is what you have to do most times. But sometimes, it’s good to do something like that.

“It’s like, ‘whoa, hold on a second…’ They’re addressing all of the things people say about them or think about them and people think there are legit facts about certain situations and they threw it back and forth at each other and turned it into a real situation that was something that could help a feud like that. These guys are kind of in the same boat. They kind of get similar reactions, so it’ll be interesting and I think it added maybe a little bit of a personal edge to if they’re going to have a match or a feud for however long it’s going to go. I think that it gave them that something personal instead of two guys, ‘I want your spot because you’re leaving – you keep coming back – I want your spot’ kind of thing.”

Edge:

“It’s all the things people assume they think about each other and now it was just validated, like, ‘yeah, that really does happen.’ So here’s where I’ve got to start: why No Mercy? Why? There [has] got to be something going on there. You don’t do this at [No Mercy]. That’s a WrestleMania match! Back to my Brock Lesnar/Samoa Joe [soapbox]. Imagine you put Brock Lesnar/Samoa Joe and Roman Reigns/John Cena on WrestleMania. Sold. Hold on! I’m great-balls-of-fired-up about it, man!

“You put it on Great Balls Of Fire and you put it on No Mercy. Come on! Like, what?” Edge added, “they each have all kinds of opponents. You didn’t have to [book the match now]. That’s all I’m saying, man. There [are] loads of people that you could’ve got through and started those around Royal Rumble season and nobody would’ve touched each other and you have two fresh matches that haven’t happened that people want to see and want to talk about. That’s my take on that.

“Now, the promo itself, here’s what I thought it did. John [has] been in that situation before whether it’s with The Rock… he [has] had to deal with that before and he’s good at it. Reigns hasn’t and you could tell. You could tell that this was his first kind of, ‘okay, how exactly do I do this?’ But I will say, it’s the best promo I’ve ever seen him do because you could tell he really felt what he was saying. Now, I think with more practice, more tune up, he [has] got it because there were a lot more points that he could’ve hit about John that he didn’t. I mean, he could’ve speed bagged John with some of the stuff he could say and he didn’t go there.”

John Cena and Roman Reigns

Christian:

“I found kind of a shift in [Reigns’ promo] where seemingly he ran out of words to say and John called him on it and said, ‘this is the reason I had to come back, because you’re not ready, basically, to do this.’ Do you know what I mean? ‘If you’re in this spot, you’re going to have to be able to do this.’ And he called him on it on live television. You could see Roman, almost the steam coming out of his ears. And I think that almost took him to another level. I’ve been there and gone blank on live TV and it’s not a fun feeling and it does something to you.

“You can’t go out there and rely on somebody else’s words, right? Somebody can’t hand you a sheet of paper and say, ‘go out there and read this and you’re going to get over with what’s written on here.’ Almost take the bullet points of it and have the gumption, the initiative, the like [Edge] said, [to] make it your own.” Christian explained, “sometimes things happen out there that aren’t necessarily a bullet point or on a piece of paper and you have to take advantage of those and you can’t be afraid to take advantage of those, right?”

Edge:

“That was a hard way to practice, but I think that was a good learning lesson for Reigns. I feel weird calling him Roman. I don’t know why. But I think that’s where he needs to get to with all of his promos. And that’s how I always looked at things. If you get to a certain place and ‘oh, okay, that is the pocket I need to get to for a promo to feel authentic, genuine, fired up. That’s when people believe. And if you can get there for every promo and find that space and whatever that trigger you need to get you there, that’s where you’ve got to get to in every promo and not every promo needs to be screaming and yelling, but he needs to get to that place for his promos.

“And if he can find that place for all his promos, man, if his promos catch up to his work and his look, now he is ready to take over and John can go to The Today Show or whatever it is.” Edge professed, “you’ve got to be able to think on your feet, know what you’re trying to get across, and go from there. And like I said, I thought that was the best, impassioned kind of promo, that I’ve seen out of him. I mean, it was a very tough situation to have to do it. And, sure, there were some awkward moments for him, but I think he stepped up. I really do.”

Christian:

“It was supposed to be awkward. I mean, that’s the feeling people were supposed to have coming away from it, right? It got people talking and that’s what it’s about. Whether it was awkward, whether he got confused in his head and didn’t have the right words to respond to John to, but it was a great moment, like, it was impactful.”

Edge:

“A couple of those moments got to John too. I know John’s reaction when things get to him. That got to him a little bit, but it was good. Again, it’s WrestleMania. I don’t know why it’s happening at No Mercy. There [has] got to be something scheduling-wise as to why it’s not. Otherwise, ‘WTF,’ as the kids say these days, Bird.”

You can listen to E&C’s Pod Of Awesomeness by visiting this link.

Braun Strowman Says He’ll Show No Mercy When He Takes Universal Title From Brock Lesnar

Jon Fuentes
-
7

WWE Superstar Braun Strowman recently did an interview with Omaha World Herald to promote his upcoming Universal Championship match against Brock Lesnar at the upcoming No Mercy pay-per-view (PPV), and discussed a variety of professional wrestling topics. Strowman discussed what will be next for him in his WWE career, the reactions he gets from WWE fans, which Superstars he’d still like to share the ring with. Here’s the highlights from their conversation:

What’s next for him in his WWE career:

“Next is taking that title from Brock Lesnar. With no mercy. It’s no difference from any match to this. Give the crowd everything I have. The Monster will prevail.”

The reactions he gets from WWE fans:

“Oh man, that’s the whole thing. That’s everything. I talked with some of the older guys, the veterans and stuff. I can see why no one ever wants to leave this business. When you hit a big move or your music hits and you go out and 12,000 people lose their minds. I just gave myself goosebumps thinking about it. There’s no feeling that can match that. The power that you feel. I’m in control. Everyone’s looking at me. This is my time. It’s one of a kind.”

Which Superstar he still wants to share the ring with:

“Everyone. Send ’em all at the same time. I’m here to fight and here to put on a show.”

You can read “The Monster Amongst Men’s” interview with Omaha World Herald here.

Diamond Dallas Page Explains Why Vader Is Upset With Him

Jon Fuentes
-
7

WWE Hall Of Famer Diamond Dallas Page recently did an interview with Wrestle List to talk about a variety of professional wrestling topics. Page discussed the health of professional wrestlers, his relationship with Terry Funk, and Vader being upset with him. You can check out the highlights from the interview here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6VQJxlER9eo&feature=youtu.be

The health of professional wrestlers:

“You have to remember, no-one even iced their knees or their back or their shoulders. No-one iced their body in professional wrestling before me. I did it because I was 35, 36, 37. I was already what would have been considered an old timer. I did chiropractic, I did deep muscle massage therapy, so I was already doing all that stuff before. And I stretched!

“I stretched my whole career – it didn’t save me when I blew my back and and of course, that’s where the whole things of DDP Yoga comes from. There’s probably about 40 wrestlers who do the DDPY program in WWE and God, I don’t know how many independent wrestlers.”

His relationship with Terry Funk:

“I just sent Terry Funk the program, because I know he’s talking about getting back into the ring for one time at 73 years young. I love Terry to death so I said, “Terry if I send you this will you take a look and try it?” Terry was an amazing athlete at one time, so he’s done a lot of stuff. He’s never tried this before but I said Jerry Briscoe loves it bro, and said it gave him his life back. I hope it helps him. If I had a relationship with them, I think it could’ve helped a lot of the guys, but it took a long time. DDP Yoga is a 10-year overnight success, which means it took me 10 years to get anybody to give a s–t.”

Recent spat with Vader:

“I love Vader, but he got his feelings hurt because I said “Leon I really need you to live here in Atlanta. I need you to take off wrestling for a while,” and financially he just couldn’t swing it. And he got kind of mad at me, and I said “Leon I can’t really help you,” and I didn’t mean it like “I won’t help you.”

“A lot of the guys need that hands-on thing until they understand the DVDs and the App. Because I’m married now I can’t move any of the guys in, I can have them for a couple of days or whatever, but I just want them to come and move to Atlanta. I understand this business, it’s tough, but I just didn’t want him to think I didn’t want to help him because that’s absurd! (Laughter)”

You can read Diamond Dallas Page’s full interview with Wrestle List by visiting this link.

Update On JBL’s Decision To Leave SmackDown’s Commentary Team

Jon Fuentes
-
5

As we’ve previously reported, former WWE Champion John Bradshaw Layfield (JBL) has decided to step down from his regular position as commentator for SmackDown Live on Tuesday nights. JBL noted that his decision was due to his desire to focus more of his time on helping at-risk youth and communities in Bermuda.

Per a report from Justin Barrasso of Sports Illustrated, JBL had these plans even before the bullying allegations against former SmackDown Live commentator Mauro Ranallo came to light. The decision was reportedly made about 11 months ago after his contract with the promotion expired this past October. It was then that he put in his notice. Following allegations of bullying Ranallo, Vince McMahon was under a ton of pressure from WWE Board Of Directors to fire JBL, to which he refused.

Another key reason JBL decided to walk away was WWE’s exhausting travel schedule. WWE wanted to bring him in the Sunday prior to SmackDown Live, however, JBL would arrive the day of the show, making it just hours before showtime. He was able to get away with this for two months before being confronted about it by WWE officials. JBL was said to be burned out and his decision to leave was completely his.

WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion (9/4)

Eric Lynch
-
548

The September 4th, 2017 edition of WWE RAW took place at the Century Link Center in Ohama, NE.

– Michael Cole welcomes us to RAW, then John Cena comes out right away to kick off this week’s show. We see a replay of Cena making his WWE debut against Kurt Angle, and then Angle’s “son” Jason Jordan makes his way out to the ring for the first match of the night.

– John Cena def. Jason Jordan: Jordan starts off strong with lots of offense on Cena and attempts a couple of pins early on. Jordan repeatedly wrestles Cena down to the mat until Cena comes back with a slam of his own. Cena comes back with a forearm shot and a suplex, then throws some punches at Jordan. Cena hits a shoulder block then attempts a back suplex, but Jordan escapes and levels Cena with a dropkick. Cena and Jordan go back and forth with right hands in the middle until Jordan goes for a spinebuster and Cena reverses into a sunset flip. Cena hits a back suplex and follows up with the Five Knuckle Shuffle. Cena goes for the AA but Jordan escapes and rolls up Cena for two. Cena puts Jordan in the STF, but Jordan escapes and puts Cena in a crossface-type hold of his own. Cena goes for the AA again but Jordan escapes. Jordan hits a Northern Lights suplex for a two count. Jordan hits a spear in the corner then goes for a back suplex but Cena escapes. Cena follows up with the WWE for the win.

– After the match Cena and Jordan shake hands then Jordan heads backstage. Before Cena can leave the ring, Roman Reigns comes out to interrupt. Reigns steps in the ring with a mic and criticizes Cena for taking 20 minutes to beat a rookie (Jordan). Reigns feels if Cena was as good as he says he is, he would have beat Jordan immediately. Reigns says maybe Cena isn’t as good as he thinks he is, and calls him a “lying, fake-ass little bitch.” Cena says he’s disgusted by Reigns’ face, and says using his brain isn’t Reigns’ strong suit. Cena says Reigns came out with his fly down and that Reigns has no balls. Cena says Reigns needs to be taught a lesson in respect, and says he doesn’t respect Reigns. Cena says Reigns is the one who is really a fake-ass bitch, and says the fans don’t agree with Reigns that he’s “the guy.” Cena says he might have to beat some common sense into Reigns, so Reigns tells him to do It right now. Reigns asks the fans if they want to see Cena kick his ass, which gets a big pop from the crowd. Cena seems to decline. Reigns says Cena is all talk and he doesn’t respect Cena, then he walks off. Reigns heads backstage as Cena looks at him from the ring.

– RAW Tag Champs Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose come out to join the commentary table with Michael Cole, Booker T, and Corey Graves.

– Sheamus & Cesaro def. Rhyno & Heath Slater: Slater rolls up Cesaro for a one count to start the match, then when Cesaro gets up he decks Slater with a right hand. Cesaro works over Slater in the corner and tags in Sheamus. Cesaro tags back in and goes back to work on Slater until Slater comes back with a spinning heel kick. Rhyno and Sheamus gets the tags and Rhyno cleans house. Cesaro knocks Slater outside, then Rhyno knocks Cesaro outside, and when Rhyno turns around he walks right into a big boot from Sheamus. Sheamus pins and scores the three count for the victory. After the match, Sheamus and Cesaro stare up at Rollins and Ambrose at the announce position.

– Over to the commentary table, Cole, Booker T and Graves promote the flooding relief efforts in Texas right now.

– The Hardy Boyz do an interview backstage where Matt says this would be a WONDERFUL evening for a new Intercontinental Champion. Jeff says he and his brother wrestle each match like it’s their first or could be their last. Jeff says tonight he’s either going to burn out in a blaze of glory, of he’s leaving the new IC Champ. Matt says if the dastardly Miztourage tries to run in, he’ll give them a twist of fate.

– The Miz (c) def. Jeff Hardy: The Miztourage and Maryse are at ringside in Miz’s corner, and Matt Hardy is in Jeff’s corner. The Miz’s IC Title is on the line in this one. Jeff clotheslines Miz to the outside early on, but Miz moves out of the way so Jeff doesn’t jump. back in the ring, Jeff hits a neckbreaker on the champion then the Whisper In The Wind for a two count. Jeff goes up top for a Swanton Bomb, but Curtis Axel knocks him down while the ref is distracted by Bo Dallas. Matt takes out Axel and then attempts a Twist of Fate on Dallas, but Dallas shoves Matt off. The ref sees the brawl at ringside and ejects Matt and the Miztourage from ringside. Back in the ring, Jeff rolls up Miz from behind for a near-fall. Russian leg sweep by Jeff then an inverted atomic drop for another two count. Jeff goes for a leg drop but Miz blocks it and hits a DDT for a two count. Miz goes for the Skull Crushing Finale but Jeff escapes. Miz hits a knee strike and both men are down. Miz hits some kicks on a grounded Jeff, but Jeff comes back with a kick of his own. Jeff follows up with a dropkick in the corner for a two count. Jeff goes for a high risk move off the apron but Miz trips him and Jeff wipes out on the ringside floor. Back in the ring, Miz puts Jeff in the Figure Four until Jeff reaches the ropes. Jeff hits a Twist of Fate out of nowhere on Miz, but Miz reaches the ropes to break the pin fall. Jeff kicks Miz to the outside then hits the Poetry In Motion off the steps. Back in the ring, Miz is down and Jeff goes up top. Jeff goes for the Swanton but Miz rolls out of the way and Jeff hits the mat. Jeff goes for another Twist of Fate but Miz escapes and hits the Skull Crushing Finale on Jeff for the win. The ref hands Miz his IC Title belt and Maryse helps him out of the ring.

– Nia Jax approaches RAW GM Kurt Angle backstage and she wants the Women’s Title match. Emma interrupts and says she’s the one who deserves a chance at the Women’s Title. Nia gets in Emma’s face and Kurt separates them. Kurt says on RAW you don’t ask for opportunities, you earn them. He books a tag match and if the duo of Nia & Emma win tonight, they both get added to the Women’s Title match at No Mercy to make it a Fatal 4 Way.

– We see the steel cage hanging above the ring. Big Show and Braun Strowman will face off in the cage later tonight.

– Gran Metalik, Enzo Amore & Cedric Alexander def. Tony Nese, Drew Gulak & Noam Dar: Enzo cuts a promo before the match. Enzo says he creates controversy everywhere he goes, and controversy creates cash. Enzo says 205 Live always had great talent, but since his arrival 205 Live has become the realest hour on TV. The opening bell rings and Cedric takes the offense to Nese in the opening moments. Cedric hits a hurricanrana then a dropkick. Enzo tags himself in on Cedric’s back and Enzo hits a drop toe hold on Nese. After some back and forth fighting between Enzo an Nese, Cedric and Gulak get the tags. Gulak hits an elbow to the face, but Alexander fires back with a kick to the head. Nese breaks up the pin and Metalik takes him out with a kick. Cedric and Metalik follow up with suicide dives in tandem to the outside onto Nese and Dar. Enzo and Gulak are legal and Enzo pokes Gulak in the eye when the ref isn’t looking. Enzo follows up with the JawdonZO for the win.

– Alexa Bliss approaches Sasha Banks backstage and they both says they aren’t happy about teaming up tonight. Bliss says Banks needs to let her be in charge because she’s the champ, and Banks gets in Alexa’s face. Banks says she’s going to make Bliss scream at No Mercy when she makes her tap out.

– Finn Balor makes his entrance to the ring and gets on the mic. Balor mentions that he used to have the NXT Title and Universal Title, but he hasn’t had the Intercontinental Title yet due to Bray Wyatt. Balor takes issue with Wyatt costing him his opportunity last week to face The Miz. Balor says the next time Wyatt appears, he’ll be ready for him. The lights go out and we see Wyatt on the Titantron. Wyatt cuts a promo about remembering his first time going hunting and killing something. Wyatt says he got bored of hunting, so he stopped using weapons and started using his bare hands. Wyatt tells Balor he will run like a scared little rabbit, then says “run” one more time before the screen cuts to black.

– Nia Jax & Emma def. Alexa Bliss & Sasha Banks: Sasha starts off against Nia and gets her in a sleeper hold early on. Nia throws Sasha off then misses a splash in the corner, and Sasha fires back with punches. Sasha goes for an arm drag, but Nia reverses and slams Sasha down. Emma tags herself in on Nia’s back then pummels on Sasha. Emma and Sasha trade pin attempts until Emma drops Banks with a clothesline. Emma goes for a vertical suplex but Sasha reverses it into one of her own. Alexa tags in and continues the offense on Emma. Banks tags back in and continues stomping on Emma. Banks hits a double knee drop on Emma for a two count. Sasha and Emma trade forearm strikes and elbows, but when Emma goes for the tag Sasha trips her. Bliss tags in and together with Banks they hit a double suplex on Emma. Alexa beats down Emma some more then goes up to the top rope. Emma rolls away before Bliss can jump, so she climbs back down. Emma hits a neckbreaker on Bliss and Nia tags in. Bliss shoves and slaps Nia and Nia comes back with a clothesline. Nia hits a splash in the corner then some elbow drops on Bliss. Bliss comes back with some elbows to the face and attempts a DDT, but Nia reverses into a Samoan Drop. Nia pins but Sasha breaks it up. Bliss ducks a clothesline and tags in Sasha. Sasha goes for a cross body off the top on Nia, but Nia catches her. Sasha goes for a sunset flip and Nia attempts a bonsai drop, but Banks rolls away. Banks hits a knee to the face and goes for the Banks Statement, but Nia fights up and clotheslines Banks down. Emma tags in blind as Nia runs off the ropes then hits a leg drop on Sasha. Emma is the legal woman and she runs in and pins Sasha for the win. Nia is not pleased that Emma stole the pin, so she hits a Samoan Drop on Emma after the bell.

– Braun Strowman is backstage to talk about his first-ever steel cage match tonight. Strowman questions what Kurt Angle is thinking by locking him in a steel cage with the Big Show just weeks away from his match against Brock Lesnar. Strowman says he’s going to hurl Big Show’s carcass into the steel cage, slicing him to ribbons. Then he’ll slam Show in the ring for the three count. Strowman says he’s taking this opportunity tonight to send a message to Kurt Angle, Big Show, Brock Lesnar, and everyone else.

– Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins are backstage walking towards the gorilla position. They get distracted by Elias playing his guitar backstage, but they keep walking.

– Seth Rollins & Dean Ambrose def. Luke Gallows & Karl Anderson: Gallows & Anderson come out first, and Sheamus and Cesaro meet them in the ring and they argue. Sheamus and Cesro intend to watch this one from ringside. Ambrose and Rollins come out next the opening bell rings. Rollins takes control of Anderson early on and stomps a mud hole in him in the corner. Ambrose tags in and they briefly double team Anderson but Ambrose takes him to the corner for some chops to the chest. Ambrose hits a boot to the face then a diving elbow to the face of Anderson. Anderson backs into the corner and Gallows tags in. Gallows overpowers both Rollins and Ambrose at first, but the champions come back with dropkicks on both Gallows and Anderson. Rollins & Ambrose hit suicide dives in tandem on Gallows and Anderson at ringside as Sheamus & Cesaro look on. Back in the ring, Anderson comes back with a spinebuster on Ambrose then he tags in Gallows. Gallows hits a two-handed chokeslam on Ambrose then tags in Anderson. Anderson stomps on Ambrose then hits a series of knee drops for a two count. Anderson drops Ambrose again with an elbow, then he tags Gallows back in. Gallows knocks Rollins off the apron, then hits a splash on Ambrose in the corner. Anderson tags back in and they hit a double back suplex on Ambrose. Anderson mounts Ambrose in the corner for some punches then he goes for a superplex, but Ambrose fights him off. Ambrose knocks Anderson down to the mat, then Gallows tags in and knocks Ambrose off the turnbuckle. Ambrose hits a shot to Gallows and Gallows answers with a big boot. Ambrose comes back with a lariat, then Rollins and Anderson get the tags. Rollins cleans house then hits the Sling Blade on Anderson. Rollins hits a splash on Anderson in the corner, while Ambrose hits a suicide dive on Gallows at ringside. Rollins sits Anderson on the top turnbuckle and hits a Frankensteiner. Sheamus and Cesaro hop on the apron for the distraction, but Rollins is still able to roll up Anderson for the win.

– After the match, Anderson and Gallows attack Sheamus and Cesaro from behind. This leads to the two teams brawling all over the ring until Sheamus and Cesaro hit a big boot and a European uppercut, then they clear the ring of Anderson and Gallows.

– Michael Cole introduces a Connor’s Cure video package showing Finn Balor and the Miz at a charity event.

– We see another shot of the cage hanging over the ring and we’re told the main event is up next.

– Enzo, Cedric Alexander and Grand Metalik are backstage celebrating their win when Cruiserweight Champion Neville interrupts. Neville says he just talked to Kurt Angle, and tomorrow night there will be a Fatal 5 Way elimination match on 205 Live tomorrow night to determine who gets a shot at Neville’s Title Belt at No Mercy.

– There’s a crew around the ring supposedly reinforcing it. Backstage, the ref who worked the Big Show vs. Strowman match where the ring broke does an interview. He says he doesn’t know what to expect from Strowman and Show tonight, and he’s just going to stay out of the way.

– The Big Show does an interview backstage where he discusses his 23 year career, and says he’s never face an opponent like Strowman. Show says when he throws Strowman into the cage he’s going to shred his face and his bones will break. Show says he plans to chokeslam Strowman straight to tell and walk out victorious. Big Show says there hasn’t be one person in 23 years big enough or bad enough to break him, because he’s the world’s largest athlete.

– Braun Strowman def. Big Show: The cage is lowered and it’s on. Strowman starts off with a big boot, then hits some splashes on Big Show up against the cage. Strowman runs in for another splash, but Big Show stick his hand out and Strowman runs into it face-first and goes down. Both men get to their feet and Strowman charges at Big Show, but Show side-steps and Strowman catches into the cage. Big Show throws Strowman into the cage a few times Strowman is down and Big Show starts climbing up the side of the cage. Strowman climbs up behind him and they start trading strikes on the top rope up against the cage. Strowman throws some headbutts and Big Show gets crotched on the top rope. Strowman tries to keep climbing, but Big Show hits him and Strowman gets crotched on the top rope next. Big Show goes up to the top rope and he hits a flying elbow drop off the top onto Strowman. Big Show tries to crawl out of the cage door, but Strowman stops him and slams the cage door in Show’s face. Strowman tries to walk over Show, so Show slams the door in Strowman’s face too. Big Show hits a shoulder tackle on Strowman, then he calls for the chokeslam. Big Show goes for the chokeslam, but Strowman escapes and hits a DDT For a two count. Big Show and Strowmn both throw punches and headbutts until Big Show catches Strowman with a chokeslam for a two count. Big Show starts climbing but Strowman pulls him back down. Strowman and Big show fight on the turnbuckle until Strowman hits the superplex on Big Show. Strowman picks up Big show and hits the running powerslam for the win. Strowman raises his hands up in the air and celebrates his win. After the match, Strowman gets on the mic and asks the fans if they see what he’s one to this so-called legend. Strowman delivers a verbal warning to Brock Lesnar on the mic, then he turns his attention back to Big Show. Strowman picks up Big Show and hits a running powerslam right through the wall of the cage. Referees come to check on Big Show, who is selling a hip injury, as Braun Strowman heads backstage to close the show.

WWE RAW To Broadcast Live On Christmas & New Year’s Night, Championship Celebrations Gone Wrong (Video)

Robert Lentini
-
16

WWE RAW to air live on Christmas night and New Year’s night

WWE just posted the following statement about RAW airing on both Christmas night and New Year’s night:

Prepare to celebrate the holidays with WWE this year as Raw broadcasts LIVE on Christmas night, Dec. 25, and New Year’s Day, Jan. 1.

This marks the first time that WWE will present Monday night’s hottest show live on the Christmas and New Year’s holidays. These unprecedented broadcasts aim to best serve you, the WWE Universe, during the holiday season.

Deck the halls and ring in the New Year with Monday Night Raw, live on Dec. 25 and Jan. 1 on USA Network.

WWE’s Top 10 championship celebrations gone wrong

WWE posted a new top 10 list on their YouTube channel earlier today that counted down championship celebrations that went awry. The list includes Sheamus attacking Roman Reigns, Adam Cole’s NXT debut, Sting attacking Seth Rollins and more. You can check out the entire list in the video below.

Nikki Bella On Alexa Bliss, Carmella & Nia Jax Joining Total Divas, Planning Her Wedding With John Cena

Robert Lentini
-
7

Nikki Bella spoke to TV Insider recently to promote the season 2 premiere of Total Bellas this Wednesday. Here are some highlights from the interview:

What is coming in the second season of Total Bellas:

“There is even footage off cell phones this season, because you are going to get so much up-close and personal with my engagement, Brie in labor. That is nuts. I think there are a lot of situations that happen in Total Bellas this season that everyone relates to, like my brother and his wife separating for a bit and the reasons why.

I think a lot of people are going to sit on the couch, and whether they are with their girlfriend, boyfriend, wife, husband, friend—everyone has got something to relate to here. My mom has this insane breakdown, which I’m like, did we give her too much wine? It got so intense. It was the first time I ever saw my mom like that. It was really strange for me, and I think you can see it. It’s just crazy-real this season. There are a lot of relatable stories going on.”

Carmella, Alexa Bliss and Nia Jax joining the cast of Total Divas:

“I definitely had a lot of input being an executive producer, and those three girls I got to spend a lot of time with, especially with Alexa Bliss and Carmella on SmackDown Live. Being around them and seeing how they are and seeing their presence in the ring, I thought that these girls are money. I knew we had to get them in here. I have also hung out with Nia a lot, and she is amazing. One, she is hilarious. Also, her strength and what she represents is amazing. And you are going to see that a lot on Season 7 of Total Divas. They are just amazing women.”

Planning her wedding with John Cena around his busy schedule:

“It’s tough. We have not planned a lot, but at least we know our date. I also have my dress. Those two important things. I’m not taking that ring off. This is staying on forever.”

You can check out the entire interview by clicking here.

Former WWE Superstar Talks About Jinder Mahal’s Physical Transformation

Staff
-
23

WWE Champion Jinder Mahal has undergone an incredible physical transformation over the past year. In our exclusive interview with Mahal at during SummerSlam weekend, he said one of the biggest factors behind his eye-popping physique an success in WWE is belief in himself and his mentality and literally writing down his goals on paper.

Back when he was starting out in the business, Jinder Mahal trained at the Martial Arts Fitness Center in Calgary, Alberta under Rick “Titan” Bognar. Yes, that Rick Titan – the man who portrayed the WWF’s “Fake” Razor Ramon in the late 90’s.

During a recent interview with the Two Man Power Trip of Wrestling podcast, Titan spoke about Mahal’s success in the gym.

“I didn’t say this to him and I saw him a couple of weeks ago but maybe I would have liked to have said it but it kind of popped into my head afterwards but with the abs, the serratus the thick wide shoulders, the v-shape he’s got and the legs that are just sticking out from that tiny waist of his, I’d say he’s in better shape than I was in at my best shape.”

“I think there was one point when I was in FMW and when I was really ripped and had a tiny waist and was squatting quite a few hundred pounds that I was really at my physical peak. He is in absolutely ripped, massive, phenomenal shape and you are right it is mind blowing because he looked like sort of the average kind of steady guy in a gym that had been going for a few years and who had big arms and he was pretty thick with not a lot of definition but the next thing I know I see this and he looks like a ripped body builder and shaved off all his chest hair and has abs poking out like little bricks and I was like holy crap what a transformation.”

It’s no secret that a great physique is one of the things WWE Chairman Vince McMahon looks for when considering which performers have “the look” to main event WWE shows. Titan compared Jinder Mahal’s body to The Ultimate Warrior’s and how being a ‘body guy’ impacts the success of today’s performers, especially when you factor in the success of guys like CM Punk and even Daniel Bryan.

“I have to say just vision wise that Jinder looks not too far off the Ultimate Warrior, he’s in peak peak shape but for awhile with all of the drug issues and all of the guys dropping like flies and I could probably tell you twenty names of guys that are all dead now. With all of the drug testing that the WWE is doing that I think that wave has kind of passed and they are probably not looking at the court injunctions and the trouble and the people making judgements that: ‘That guy is on steroids.’

“That wave has passed and I think now and I have to say even ten years ago watching a lot of these guys and no offense to him but CM Punk and people are paying $200 to watch him go to the ring and there are guys my size and I’m only about 230 (pounds) right now and I watch a guy like that go to the ring that are becoming really good talkers but I don’t think are strong and legit tough and I’m saying that well I can take that guy than where is the value in that $200. Now you are going back to a guy like Jinder who (HOLY CRAP) I wouldn’t want to meet him dark alley. So that is kind of the direction I think.”

As a former WWE Superstar, Titan knows the feeling of being released by WWE and reached out to Jinder Mahal (and his father) after Mahal was released following his first run with the company.  He’s proud to see how far Jinder Mahal has come.

“I think I tried to reach out once or twice and he didn’t get back to me and there is a lot of focus and a lot of determination that goes into that and if you are starting to slip and where I knew I was with the Razor Ramon character and I knew when my contract was going to be up after that year that they were probably not going to renew and I wasn’t in a real happy place and I thought well what am I going to do now? If I had a trainer that I could have talked to at that time I wouldn’t have reached out and say I think my career is just about over and I don’t know what to do.”

“I talked to his Dad briefly and his Dad is about 15-20 years older than me and somehow we just kept in touch and he said that Raj (Jinder) isn’t really happy right now and doesn’t know what to do. I said to call me anytime because I had been through it and I think their should be some kind of coaching or some kind of psychologist or someone for the guys to reach out to in any sport to where when you are done with that business you whole life is caving in. Not to mention you are making a lot of money and when you are not making any money any more that is tough. Regardless to say, we didn’t keep in touch but it was really great to see him and the upside as World Champion at his brother’s wedding and we chatted a bit. There is also a tough as nails edge you have to be with being one of the top guys and to be World Champion and you don’t go around expressing your feelings a lot. Him and I had some nice little chats but it was nothing really deep going on.”

RAW Preview: Braun Strowman vs. Big Show Cage Match

Staff
-
6

Happy Labor Day to our readers in the United States.

Tonight’s episode of WWE RAW takes place from Omaha, Nebraska at the Century Link Center

WWE is advertising two big matches for tonight’s show. RAW’s two largest athletes, Braun Strowman and the Big Show, will square off in a steel cage match. Ahead of his Universal Championship match against Brock Lesnar at No Mercy, Strowman looks to demonstrate his ability to manhandle WWE’s veteran super heavyweight.

Also tonight, Jeff Hardy challenges The Miz for the Intercontinental Championship. Hardy looks to become a 5-time IC Champion after winning a battle royal last week to earn the championship opportunity.

We’ll also get the next chapter in John Cena and Roman Reigns’ feud after their explosive confrontation last week.

In addition to these items, WWE.com is also teasing that Nia Jax will a “major Raw Women’s Championship statement” and we’ll find out what’s next for Emma.

Join us here tonight for our weekly WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion!

Corey Graves Joins SmackDown, McGuinness To 205 Live & Main Event

Daniel Pena
-
24

Following the departure of JBL from the SmackDown LIVE announce team, WWE announced this afternoon that Corey Graves will take over for him beginning tomorrow night.

Graves joins Tom Phillips and Byron Saxton on SmackDown LIVE. WWE also noted that Graves will remain as a color commentator on Raw.

With the change, Graves is leaving 205 Live and WWE Main Event. Nigel McGuinness, who serves as a color commentator on WWE NXT broadcasts, is replacing Graves on both series.

JBL announced on Friday that he’s stepping away from his weekly broadcasting role on SmackDown LIVE to dedicate more time to at-risk youth and communities in Bermuda. He will continue his relationship with WWE by appearing on marquee events, such as Tribute to the Troops and WrestleMania.

PWG BOLA 2017: Night 3 Results

Robert Lentini
-
0

PWG held Night 3 of the Battle of Los Angles on Sunday night from Reseda, California. Here are the results:

Quarterfinals 

  • Ricochet def. Dezmond Xavier
  • Travis Banks def. Marty Scurll
  • Keith Lee def. Donovan Dijak
  • Ray Fenix def. Zack Sabre Jr
  • Jeff Cobb def. Sammy Guevara
  • Matt Riddle def. Penta el 0M

Semi-finals 

  • Ricochet def. Travis Banks
  • Keith Lee def. Ray Fenix
  • Jeff Cobb def. Matt Riddle

Chuck Taylor, Flamita, Joey Janela, Mark Haskins, and Flash Morgan Webster def. Brian Cage, Sami Callihan, Trevor Lee, WALTER, and Jonah Rock

Finals

  • Ricochet def. Keith Lee and Jeff Cobb to win the 2017 Battle of Los Angeles.

Following the victory, Ricochet said that he is coming after Chuck Taylor’s PWG Title before he moves on to bigger and better things.

Chris Jericho Reveals WrestleMania Match He Had Pitched To Vince McMahon

Anutosh Bajpai
-
10

During his recent appearance on Busted Open Radio, Chris Jericho revealed an interesting WrestleMania match he had pitched to the Boss Vince McMahon involving the WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels which didn’t get approved.

According to Jericho, he had the idea for a match between him and the Former Wyatt Family Leader Bray Wyatt for WrestleMania XXX back in 2014. The match would have seen Michaels being in his corner for the match and the Wyatt Family on Bray’s.

However, this match wasn’t approved by Mr. McMahon because apparently, Chris read the room wrong while pitching the idea and it didn’t work out well for him:

“When I went to pitch it to Vince I read the room wrong and made some mistakes. Not only was there somebody else in the room, but he was also hungry and eating. It just led to this whole deck of cards falling, where had I pitched it under the rules of knowing my audience; I could’ve got it through.”

It’s worth mentioning here that during the same interview, Jericho also revealed that the finish of the US title match at Battleground was botched and WWE had to fix it two nights later on SmackDown Live.

After Chris Jericho’s idea wasn’t approved, Bray Wyatt faced John Cena in a one on one match during the PPV and Shawn Michaels ended up being a part of the pre show panel on the event.

Quotes via WrestlingInc.

Tessa Blanchard Talks About Cedric Alexander Helping Her With Training, Advice From Carlito, More

Andrew Ravens
-
5

Tessa Blanchard spoke with the Orlando Sentinel to promote the Mae Young Classic on the WWE Network. Here are the highlights:

Cedric Alexander being instrumental in helping her with training:

“If I ever needed anything, they would help me. After hours, I would train, train, train, six or seven days a week, until 2 or 3 in the morning sometimes. After a long day, Cedric [Alexander] would say, ‘Hey Tessa, let’s get in there and have a 45-minute match and call it on the fly.’ That’s helped turn me into the athlete I am today. I’m so grateful for all of those hardships.”

Advice from former WWE Superstar Carlito:

“I was going through this time where I thought, ‘Why don’t people like me? Why is it so tough right now? Why do people think I’m only here because of [my family ties]?’ Carlito looked at me and he was like, ‘Tessa, you don’t need to apologize for who your dad is, you don’t need to apologize for what family you’re in. You were born that way. But you do need to work hard and you do need to back it up.’ That stuck with me and that’s what I’ve been doing the last four years.”

You can read the full interview here.

Baron Corbin Was Reportedly Involved In A Backstage Incident Which Could Have Gotten Him Fired

Anutosh Bajpai
-
39

Much has been said about the reason why WWE officials got upset with Baron Corbin which resulted in the company pulling the plug on his push and making him lose the Money In the Bank contract.

First, it was reported that the way Corbin performed on the mic during his confrontations with John Cena and his twitter battles were the reason why Officials lost their faith in the former NXT Star.

Later, it was said that Cena spoke negatively about Corbin saying that he wasn’t ready, which is why Officials nixed whatever they had previously planned for him.

However, a new report indicates that none of these were the primary reason for Corbin’ heat and it was a backstage incident which made Officials angry.

Dave Meltzer of F4Wonline wrote the following on his message board, indicating that a backstage incident is the reason for Baron’s heat and it was so serious that it could have gotten him fired if it wasn’t for Vince McMahon:

“Only thing I can say is that there was an incident, it wasn’t anything reported, nothing in the ring, not related to Twitter or talent, and they changed booking plans. He’ll be fine. Vince loves him. If not, he’d have been fired.”

While Meltzer didn’t open up about the incident, there is a story going around which involves a backstage meeting involving WWE head Doctor Joseph Maroon.

During the meeting, Baron Corbin allegedly interrupted him several times in disagreement about Joseph’s opinion on CTE.  While this story is not confirmed, the belief is that the Lone Wolf should have talked to Maroon in private instead of disagreeing with him in front of the WWE roster, and it’s allegedly the reason why the company pushed him down on the cards.

Kelly Kelly Said She Had $50K of Jewelry & Hand Bags Stolen

Staff
-
15

Former WWE Superstar Kelly Kelly (Barbara Blank-Souray) says she was the victim of a robbery that resulted in the loss of at least $50,000 of jewelry and purses. She tweeted the following on Saturday, noting the property was stolen from a Public Storage facility in El Sagundo, California.

Kelly, a former WWE Divas Champion, has appeared on the hit reality series WAGS and appeared on an episode of long-runniung daytime soap opera Days of Our Lives earlier this year.

Sasha Banks Rants About Overzealous ‘Stalker’ Fans

Staff
-
37

During her recent conversation with Sam Roberts on the Sam Roberts wrestling podcast, Sasha Banks vented about WWE creative, the ‘hot potato’ RAW Women’s Championship and preferring NXT’s creative style, where she knew her character’s long-term booking.

Another newsworthy topic coming out of the discussion was Sasha Banks talking about overzealous fans who cross the line and act in a why that she considers stalking.

“You want me to talk about how much I hate being bothered at an airport or hotels?” Sasha Banks started. “I grew up a wrestling fan so I knew I wanted to meet my favorite wrestlers but always in the back of my head I never thought in my life I’d be like ‘hey, they’re gonna fly in. Maybe I should wait at the airport for like twelve-hours at the gate Hey — they don’t need any sleep, maybe let me find the hotel they’re staying at and bother them.’”

She continued airing her grievances with these fans, Banks explained that there’s a fine line between approaching your favorite Superstar if you see them in public and hitting them up for an autograph at 4am at an airport or hotel lobby and then selling it on eBay.

“Like to me, that’s stalking. I don’t tweet out what hotel I’m at. I don’t tweet what airport I’ll be flying out of. I do tweet what arena I’ll be performing at so I do expect fans at the arena and I’m so happy to sign at the arena. That’s fine because I’m telling you where I’m going to be at. If I see you in public, that’s fine. But when I’m in the airport at four in the morning and I see somebody with a carry-on and they open it with a hundred items of everyone and they’re bothering everyone to get an autograph and then I see it on eBay… that’s not okay to me.”

Meanwhile, industry veteran Bubba Ray Dudley tweeted the following, an apparent reference to Banks’ remarks.

The Miz actually spoke to Sam Roberts about this exact topic several years ago. Miz had a similar stance to Bubba Ray, acknowledging that fans pay his bills and it’s an honor and privilege when they want an autograph.

“Whether it’s an adult asking for my autograph or a kid, whether I’m eating or doing something I don’t want to do, it’s like ‘They want my autograph’. It’s kind of a privilege and an honor… They’re the people that pay my bills.”

PWG BOLA 2017: Night 2 Results

Staff
-
5

PWG held Night 2 of the Battle of Los Angeles event on Saturday night from Reseda, CA

Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler of MMA’s Four Horsewomen were both in attendance, as was Dave Meltzer.

https://twitter.com/sammyguevara/status/904219629282779136

First Round Tournament Match
– Donovan Dijak def. Trevor Lee

First Round Tournament Match
– Sammy Guevara def. Joey Janela

First Round Tournament Match
– Travis Banks def. Mark Haskins

–  Zack Sabre Jr. & Marty Scurll def. Ricochet & Matt Sydal

First Round Tournament Match
– Jeff Cobb def. Sami Callihan

First Round Tournament Match
– Matt Riddle def. Michael Elgin

First Round Tournament Match
– Keith Lee def. WALTER

– In the tag team main event, The Bullet Club’s Kenny Omega & The Young Bucks def. Pentagon, Fenix & Flamita.

After Stage 2, 12 competitors remain and will face off Sunday night in a series of singles matches leading to the finals, which is a triple threat match. The 12 remaining competitors are:

  • Fenix
  • Dez Xavier
  • Marty Scurll
  • Zack Sabre Jr.
  • Penta El 0M
  • Ricochet
  • Donovan Dijak
  • Sammy Guevara
  • Travis Banks
  • Keith Lee
  • Jeff Cobb
  • Matt Riddle

Renee Young’s Thoughts On Joining SmackDown Commentary, The Hardys Respond To The Miz (Video)

Robert Lentini
-
18

Renee Young’s thoughts on joining the SmackDown Live commentary team

Earlier this week, JBL announced that he will no longer be on the weekly SmackDown Live commentary team. JBL stated that he wanted to devote more time to at-risk youth and communities in Bermuda.

JBL will continue his relationship with WWE and will appear at marquee events such as WrestleMania and Tribute to the Troops.

Gorilla Position’s Twitter account suggested that Renee Young make history and join the SmackDown live commentary team. Young responded with the following:

The Hardy Boyz respond to The Miz’s offer

On last week’s episode of WWE RAW, Jeff Hardy won a Battle Royal to become the #1 contender for the Intercontinental Championship. Jeff Hardy will face The Miz tomorrow night on RAW for the title. Yesterday, The Miz asked both Matt and Jeff Hardy to join The Miztourage instead of having the match tomorrow night.

The Hardy Boyz responded and at first joked around that they were going to accept The Miz’s offer. They then declined and Jeff Hardy said that he will take the Intercontinental Championship on Monday night and that The Miz will become obsolete.

Jinder Mahal Walking Arjan Bhullar To The Octagon At UFC 215

Staff
-
41

WWE Champion Jinder Mahal will be on hand for UFC 215, which takes place on Saturday, September 9th from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.

Mahal, who hails from Calgary, will walk Arjan Bhullar to the Octagon for his heavyweight fight against Luis Henrique. The fight will air on the preliminary card, which airs on UFC’s Fight Pass streaming network.

The news was first reported by MMA journalist Chamatkar Sandhu. Bhullaar confirmed the report with a nod to RAW General Manager Kurt Angle.

For more on UFC 215, visit the UFC 215 News page over at MMANews.com.

Hulk Hogan Asks Fans If He Should Return To Wrestling (Video)

Staff
-
40

Pro wrestling legend Hulk Hogan has been getting active on YouTube lately and is starting a new series of Q&A sessions answering all sorts of questions from his fans.

In the first installment of his Q&A series, Hogan brought up the possibility of returning to the wrestling world. At the end of the Q&A, Hogan came right out and asked the fans — should he return to wrestling or stay away?

“Now I got a question for you,” said Hogan. “From this point forward, with Hulk Hogan being in the prime of his career, with Hulk Hogan being the greatest beach bum ever with the greatest beach shop, what do you fans want to see me do with wrestling?”

He asked, “Do you want me to stay out of it? Do you want me to get back in it? Do you want me to tear the business apart? I want to hear from you guys. I want to get your replies. What do the fans want Hulk Hogan to do about wrestling from this point forward.”

1...1,8511,8521,853...3,407Page 1,852 of 3,407