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Lucha Underground Recap: the “Cueto Cup” is Announced

Chris Stephens
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0

Lucha Underground was back this week for their 2nd episode to season 3 pt II. Last week, Johnny Mundo and the Mack fought to a 3-3 draw in an “All-Night Long” match (basically Iron Man rules). Dario Cueto however, ruled that the match must continue under sudden death rules this week.

Lucha Underground
S03E21
Boyle Heights, Los Angeles

  • In the back we see a video of Prince Puma staring into a mirror. Images of Vampiro, and having been locked in a coffin flash. Rey Mysterio walks in and says he’s worried about him, and not to trust Vampiro. Puma says no one is his master, and that includes Rey Mysterio.
  • Puma leaves, and a ghostly image of Vampiro appears in the mirror. He tells Mysterio to stay away from Puma. Rey punches and shatters the mirror to end the scene.

1. Lucha Underground Championship Match
Johnny Mundo (c) vs. the Mack

  • Before the match Dario Cueto came out and announced it would be a Falls Count Anywhere match.
  • Mack dominated early. He hit a Samoan drop, standing moonsault, and clothesline in the corner.
  • The match then moved to the outside where Mack still got most of the offence. He body slammed Mundo into a pile of chairs, and hit a cannonball while Mundo was sitting in the 3rd or 4th row of seats.
  • Mundo then fled throughout the crowd.
  • Ricky Mandel came out and interfered, which allowed Mundo to go on offence. Hit hit a dividing corkscrew like move from the guardrail. Mandel asked Mundo what he needed, to which Mundo replied “a chainsaw”.
  • Mandel couldn’t find a chainsaw but did start to bring over a trash can when Sexy Star came out and took him out.
  • Mack got back on offence, but then PJ Black came out from under the ring and hit him in the head with a kendo stick. Mack ended up giving Black a stunner on the apron, causing him to fall through a table.
  • Mundo was able to go back on offence afterwards. He hit a running knee strike before going for the End of the World. Mack got his knees up and then hit a sit down power-bomb for a near-fall.
  • Mack looked as though he was going to try and power-bomb Mundo through the pile of chairs on the outside, but Taya pulled Mundo into the ring. Shortly after, Mundo hit a sunset flip power-bomb to Mack, who was on the apron at the time, sending him into the pile of chairs. Mundo got the 3-count afterwards to retain his title.

Winner: Johnny Mundo

  • Dario Cueto announced the “Cueto Cup”, which will be awarded to the winner of a single elimination tournament. The winner will receive a Lucha Underground Championship match at Ultima Lucha 3.
  • He also announced that Johnny Mundo would defend his Lucha Underground championship against Rey Mysterio Jr. on the same night of the Cueto Cup finals.

2. Lucha Underground Trios Championships
Aerostar, Fenix, & Drago (c) vs. the Reptile Tribe 

  • Most of this match seemed to involve Aerostar taking out the smaller reptile character. Neither Kobra Moon or Drago tagged in for their teams until the end.
  • The Giant Viper like reptile took out Fenix with a tombstone on the outside.
  • Aerostar went to tag Drago, but Drago hit him with the poison green mist.
  • Drago then walked over to the other corner, and tagged in for the Reptile team.
  • Drago hit Aerostar with a splash and pinned him.
  • Evidently, Drago had been on the Reptile team all along, and was doing the bidding of Kobra Moon.
  • They celebrated with the titles, as Moon attached a collar around Drago’s neck.

Winners: the Reptile Tribe (new champions)

  • In the back Taya tells Johnny Mundo that he will have to defend the title against Rey Mysterio.
  • Mundo says he’ll have to train harder than he’s ever trained before.

3. Boyle Heights Street Fight
Mill Muertes vs. Prince Puma

  • Puma and Muertes spent the early portion of the match fighting throughout the crowd.
  • Muertes ended up putting Puma on his shoulders and carrying him back towards the ring. Then he gave him a TKO.
  • Muertes then walked over to Vampiro at the announcers booth and the two stared each other down for a few moments.
  • Puma seemed to gain the advantage on the inside and set Muertes up for a Van Terminator. His version of the move included doing a flip as well, which he landed into a drop kick. Muertes kicked out at 2 after the move.
  • After that, Puma hit his 630 splash, but Katrina hit Puma with the rock before he could pin him. As Katrina is helping Muertes, Vampiro hands Puma a brick.
  • Puma hit Muertes with the brick and pinned him for a 3 count to end the show.

Winner: Prince Puma

Austin Aries Talks About WWE’s Cruiserweight Division, Neville, Plans For After Retirement

Staff
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WWE Superstar Austin Aries was the latest guest on Ring Rust Radio. Donald Wood sent in the following transcript highlights:

The Process of Signing with WWE:

Ring Rust Radio: We spoke to you a few times during your run with TNA, but haven’t spoken since you joined WWE. What was the signing process like for you and how have you enjoyed your time thus far in WWE?

Austin Aries: The signing process can be a little drawn out obviously. From initial contact and finding if there’s interest and having some meetings, where you fit in, what the opportunity is, and then being such a large entity there’s a lot of paperwork and stuff involved with background checks. It’s a drawn-out process, but it’s well worth it obviously because once you get there, it is the pinnacle of what we do. I have been fortunate to perform for lots of different companies in different promotions all over the place, but at the end of the day, this is the top of the iceberg. To finally achieve that after my journey was rewarding and created a whole new opportunity for me in front of a larger fan base and people who maybe don’t know anything about Austin Aries and here’s the opportunity for them to find out.

If He Plans To Remain in WWE’s Cruiserweight Division:

Ring Rust Radio: You had a great feud against Neville with amazing match after amazing match, but now that it seems like Neville may be transitioning into other programs, do you at all have an eye toward moving out of the cruiserweight championship and pursuing other titles or are you focused on continuing to help build the cruiserweight division?

Austin Aries: Right now, I feel like I’m at a point where I am reflecting and just trying to figure out what my next move is. I have put a lot of energy and focus into capturing the Cruiserweight Championship but obviously, I didn’t get the job done. So, I am not really sure what my next move is. I think right now I am going to take a step back, see what the landscape in front of me and see where I fit in best moving forward.

His Feud With Neville:

Ring Rust Radio: Your matches with Neville have been some of my most anticipated and favorite of the year. How did you feel about those matches and did you receive any praise backstage from management or your peers?

Austin Aries: We’ve gotten a lot of really positive feedback from a number of people back there whose opinions I hold very high. I think Neville; he’s at a different level right now. He’s really rejuvenated and I’ve enjoyed competing with him in there. I think we got the same chip on our shoulder and were out there to prove the same thing to the same people likely. We just have a maybe difference of opinion of how you get there right now. Our beef so to speak, to use a totally bad pun for a vegan, was really just based on respect. Respect we don’t feel we get. It’s cliché but it really was nothing personal. As much as it was, it was just two real stubborn competitive dudes to go out and prove who the best is. I will tip my hat to him, right now he’s at a different level physically. He’s in his prime and he’s found something in this reincarnated himself that’s taken him to a new level. I just have to tip my hat to him. I like to consider myself a measuring stick at points in my career and I’ve matched up with him three times and he measured up each and every time to each and every inch.

Becoming A Full-Time Commentator After Retirement:

Ring Rust Radio: While you were out injured you did commentary for the cruiserweight division on Raw and 205 Live. I thought you were absolutely great and it led me to wonder if you’d have an interest in potentially becoming a full-time commentator down the line after your wrestling career.

Austin Aries: I had a lot of fun doing that and it was a new opportunity for me. I learned a lot and I got to work with some cool people that I would never have had the chance to work with as an in-ring competitor. A lot of respect for what those guys do. There’s a lot going on that people don’t know about in those headsets while those guys are trying to manage while they are also trying to narrate a story. I think at a certain point when the time is right, if that opportunity is there for me, it’s something I would like to pursue.

Seth Rollins Reveals What it Was Like Stepping Into The Ring Against The Undertaker

Jon Fuentes
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16

WWE Monday Night RAW Superstar Seth Rollins recently did an interview with Bandwagon.asia to promote the WWE’s upcoming shows in Singapore. Rollins discussed his WWE career, including his days with The Shield, sharing the ring with The Undertaker, and the evolution of his entrance music.

You can check out some highlights from the interview here below:

What was the experience like being in the ring with The Undertaker?

“Yeah, I got into step into the ring with the Undertaker one time before he retired – it was a six-man tag match on Monday Night RAW in London. It was one of those nights I didn’t really get to fully grasp what we were doing. We had a show earlier in the day in Cardiff, Wales – and we took a helicopter to London! I had to basically get right into the ring and have a second match within a few hours.

“It was against Undertaker, Daniel Bryan and Kane though – so it was a tremendous experience. I remember looking across the ring at one point, locking eyes with a dead man – someone who’s an absolute legend, first ballot Hall-Of-Famer, one of the most incredible performers in the history of our industry. To share a ring with him is very surreal, especially considering our age difference.

“At some point, you’d consider that he’d be retired before you’d get the chance to be in the ring with him, but that’s just a testament to how he took care of himself and how physically forward-thinking he was in keeping himself healthy that late in his career.”

I think that brings me to your current song, which is called ‘The Second Coming’. You’ve been using it for about two to three years now. How is it fitting with you?

“Yeah I love it. It’s one of those where soon as the riff kicks in, everyone knows who’s coming through the curtains. That’s all that really matters when you’re picking an entrance theme. It fits my character. Though it was really weird adjusting to it at first because the pace of it is different from The Shield music, so y’know, trying to get the timing down on the entrance and making it feel like my own song took a little while.

“But now I’ve had so many moments with that music playing behind me or in front me – it’s become mine. People ask me “oh you’re gonna change your song, you’re gonna do this, you’re gonna do that” – I think that one’s sticking for a long time. I like guys who had the same entrance theme forever and ever – like Stone Cold, Chris Jericho, the Big Show – I think that’s always a really cool thing when guys have the same song for a really long time.”

You can read Rollins’ full interview with Bandwagon.asia at this link.

John Cena Reacts to His Reputation For “Burying Young Talent”

Jon Fuentes
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34

WWE Superstar and former WWE Champion John Cena recently did an interview with The Wrap to promote the new season of his reality show “American Grit.” During the interview, Cena commented on the criticisms he’s received over the years about being “coddled” by the WWE and having a reputation for “burying young talent.” You can check out what he had to say here below:

If he’s “coddled” by WWE:

“If you look at my existence in WWE, I have never asked anyone and will never ask anyone to pull any punches,” Cena explained. “I believe that it’s a ‘Strong Survive’ environment, and accept nothing less. I think people forget my [history] in WWE sometimes and the fact that I truly had to earn every inch. There is this overwhelming perception that I am protected and coddled — that couldn’t be farther from the truth.”

“I just believe you bring your best to every story and you bring your best to every fight. And if my skills aren’t as good, then it’s time to step back. It’s just a matter of believing in myself and going out there and speaking from the heart. I believe that sometimes that’s something missing in some of the WWE storylines … being honest and brave enough to put everything out there on the table.”

His reputation for “burying young talent”:

“This is why I have the reputation of quote-unquote ‘burying younger talent,’ because I will let them do whatever they want with me — and then after they get done, they’re not as motivated,” Cena remarked. “So, it’s not that I sink their ship, it’s that they fail to operate at an elite level. And I’m on to the next person, [to] whom I say, “Hey man, bring your best punch and I’m gonna punch back” — and they don’t take that attitude beyond me.”

You can read Cena’s full interview with The Wrap here.

Mick Foley on Vince McMahon Not Being a Fan of His at First

Jon Fuentes
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1

WWE Hall Of Famer Mick Foley recently did an interview with Sports Illustrated’s Extra Mustard to discuss his time with the company. You can check out some of the highlights here:

Vince McMahon not being a fan of his at first:

“Mr. McMahon, you see, was not a Cactus Jack fan,” Foley recalled. “But, following a notable first year in a leather mask as Mankind, Mr. McMahon had a change of heart, and not only gave Cactus Jack the occasional opportunity in WWE, but built up the Cactus character to be my toughest and wildest incarnation of all. It was if he was admitting to me, and whoever out there was watching, that he just might have missed the boat on that Cactus Jack guy after all!”

Cactus Jack making his WWE debut on a September 1997 episode of RAW in a Street Fight with Triple H:

“In so doing–in allowing a guy who (in his opinion) didn’t look like a star, Mr. McMahon just may have opened up the possibility that other unlikely prospects might find a home, and stardom inside the WWE,” Foley told Sports Illustrated. “Maybe, just maybe, the lesson learned from the Cactus Jack experiment helped open the door for future WWE Superstars such as Daniel Bryan, CM Punk, and Kevin Owens–all of whom flourished in what would have been seen as a very unlikely environment a generation earlier.”

How WWE portrayed his character and his connection with the fans:

“So, yes, WWE deserves much of the credit for how they chose to portray a colorful journeyman like Cactus Jack. But there was something real there too–something fans could truly believe in.”

“Even as the world learned new truths about me–I was from New York not New Mexico, the only thing truly deranged about me was my fashion sense–the legitimacy of Cactus Jack was only heightened, never questioned,” Foley elaborated. “I think it’s because there was an understanding that even given the entertainment aspect of pro wrestling, the struggle to the top had been hard-earned and well deserved, and that the legendary tales of suffering had all turned out to be very true.”

You can read the full interview by clicking here.

SmackDown Viewership for Episode Headlined by Owens vs. Nakamura

Scott Lazara
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This week’s WWE SmackDown drew 2.349 million viewers, in line with last week’s 2.350 million viewers.

SmackDown features Shinsuke Nakamura defeating WWE US Champion Kevin Owens in the non-title main event plus the latest build for Money in the Bank, including Lana’s SmackDown debut.

SmackDown was #6 in viewership and #1 in the 18-49 demographic on cable this week.

By comparison, this week’s RAW drew 2.994 million viewers this week.

You can watch WWE’s top 10 moments for this week’s SmackDown in the video above.

Joe Sends Another Warning To Paul Heyman, Nakamura-Japan, Lana-MITB Notes

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– WWE has announced that Shinsuke Nakamura will headline a WWE live event in Osaka, Japan on September 16th at the Edion Arena. This show is in addition to two live events scheduled for Tokyo, Japan later this month.

– Lana tweeted the following about her upcoming SmackDown Women’s Championship opportunity at Money in the Bank:

– On Monday’s RAW, Samoa Joe sent a message to Brock Lesnar by choking out Lesnar’s Advocate, Paul Heyman. The two are getting rave reviews for the segment, which went a long way in solidifying Joe as a top-tier player and a serious threat to WWE’s Universal champion. The following day, Joe and Heyman had the following exchange on Twitter.

Brock Lesnar returns to WWE RAW next week and you can bet he won’t be pleased with what transpired this week. Lesnar and Joe square off in the main of event of Great Balls of Fire, which takes place Sunday, July 9th.

Edge Talks About His History With The Singh Brothers

Jon Fuentes
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Former WWE Tag Team Champions Edge and Christian took to their podcast, E&C’s Pod Of Awesomeness, to talk about WWE Champion Jinder Mahal’s current title run and push into the main event picture. Edge and Christian talk about why they enjoy seeing a fresh face with the title, and “The Rated R Superstar” talks about his past relationship with The Singh Brothers.

You can check out the highlights here:

Christian on Mahal winning the WWE Title being a nice surprise:

“I think it’s good. I think it’s a good surprise. I mean, I like it when there’s… it’s hard to shock people, especially when people want to know, like, spoilers and stuff like that. People seem to want to know stuff that’s going to happen before it happens sometimes instead of just enjoying it and following the ride and just seeing where it takes you. So it just was legitimately one of those ones where you didn’t know which way they were going to go on it and I like it. I think it’s different and I think it’s one of those ones too, even speaking from personal experience, that you sometimes you’ve just got to throw that person in that spot and see if they can sink or swim, if they have it in them to step up and be believable in that spot.”

Edge on fans always complaining about what’s different and new:

“Put the person in the situation and see how they do. Jinder’s a good dude. He’s a nice guy and the only way to prove and get to that next level is to be given a shot. Now, people always complain they want something different, they want something new, and when it happens, they complain about what is different and new. Now, these are broad paint strokes, but it generally seems to be the case where Kevin Owens becomes champion and they complain about how he’s used as champion. But you were complaining he wasn’t champion. Now he’s champion, you want to complain about how he’s used as champion? I get it. You’re passionate about the product. I’m passionate about it too, but I like to let things play out, having been in the industry. From being inside the industry, I understand you need patience to see things play out. And that’s what I would advise all of the folks who might be worked up about this. Let’s see how it plays out. I think he’s going to do good. I think he’s going to step up. And guess what. If he doesn’t, it’s not going to happen for long.”

Edge on why fans should give Mahal’s title reign a chance:

“I know the knee-jerk reaction from a lot of wrestling fans is, ‘huh? Why?’ Settle down. Relax. I’m going to be Uncle Edge here and try and talk you off the ledge. Here’s how I’m looking at this. You can say it’s a business decision because WWE is breaking ground in India. Well, okay. Then, it’s a good business decision. If you want a billion people to latch onto the product, then maybe put the 6’5″, 240 lbs. Indian dude as your world heavyweight champion. Just saying.”

Christian on liking Mahal’s pairing with The Bollywood Boyz (The Singh Brothers):

“The thing is too, they’ve surrounded him. They put an entourage with him, which is great. It gives him a little bit more of a presence, a little bit more of an aura. So yeah, I mean, give the guy a chance. And he’s either going to make it or he’s not and it’s on him.”

Edge on his past encounters with The Singh Brothers:

“And a shout out to the entourage, The Singh Brothers. We’ll have them on the show at some point, but really, really good guys. I go back with them a little bit, back when they were out in [British Columbia, Canada] and I was out there filming some stuff. They got in touch with me through Paul Lazenby, who is a complete moron.” Edge continued, “they got ahold of Paul and they found out I was in town, so they just wanted to pick my brain, so we went and hiked this mountain called The [Stawamus] Chief and they just picked my brain the entire time. I was like, ‘okay, I like these guys.’ They went out of their way to try to find out if they could just get into contact with me and get some ideas. So from that point, I’ve stayed in contact with them and just tried to give them advice along the way.”

“They’re great guys, good head on their shoulders, and it’s great to see them being put in that mix. And again, sink or swim. Yeah, so it [has] been nice to see and it’s different and it’s fun and I always liked that.”

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

Video: AJ Styles Talks Cashing-In MITB, Lana on Her SDL Women’s Title Shot, Corbin on Attacking Nakamura

Jon Fuentes
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1

– In the video below, SmackDown Live star AJ Styles joined Talking Smack following last night’s (Tues. June 6, 2017) episode of SmackDown Live to discuss the upcoming Money In The Bank (MITB) Ladder match and when he’d cash-in if he were to win.

Styles said it would all depend on how he feels after the match and if he’s in good physical condition. “The Phenomenal One” stated “Winners find a way to win,” and if he gets the briefcase, he’s focused on cashing in at the right time:

– As we’ve previously reported, Lana made her SmackDown Live debut last night and also joined Talking Smack. Lana discussed receiving a shot at the SmackDown Live Women’s Champion Naomi at the MITB pay-per-view (PPV), seeing as the rest of the women’s division will be involved in the first ever female MITB Ladder Match.

Lana claimed that SmackDown Live is “The Land Of Opportunity” and also said she has had doubters her entire life telling her she’d never amount to anything. After crossing the ocean and making it out of her ‘pathetic’ little village in Russia, look at where she is now. “The Ravishing Russian” says she will prove all her doubters wrong against Naomi and vows to make history. Check it out:

– Following his attack on Shinsuke Nakamura, who defeated WWE United States Champion Kevin Owens in the main event of last night’s SmackDown Live, Baron Corbin took to Twitter to rub it in the WWE Universe’s face:

John Cena’s WWE Return Date Confirmed, Top SmackDown Live Star Suffers Injury (Photo)

Jon Fuentes
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19

– It was confirmed on last night’s (Tues. June 6, 2017) episode of SmackDown Live that former WWE Champion John Cena will be making his WWE return on the July 4th episode from Phoenix, Arizona. Cena has been busy promoting his new film “The Wall” and hasn’t been seen since his WrestleMania 33 win over The Miz and Maryse alongside fiancee Nikki Bella.

– Prior to yesterday’s episode of SmackDown Live, United States Champion Kevin Owens took to Twitter to reveal that “The Thumb Of America” was broken, but stated that it won’t be causing him to miss any ring time. Owens went on to face Shinsuke Nakamura in the main event of SmackDown Live, which he lost after taking a running knee to the face:

https://twitter.com/FightOwensFight/status/872218456753655808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw&ref_url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.wrestlinginc.com%2Fwi%2Fnews%2F2017%2F0606%2F626898%2Fkevin-owens-suffers-minor-injury-photo%2F

205 Live Highlights: Neville vs. TJP

Chris Stephens
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8

This week on 205 Live, Noam Dar faced Cedric Alexander, Mustafa Ali was back in action, and in the main event a cruiserweight title match between TJP and Neville.

205 Live
June 6th 2017

1. Noam Dar vs. Cedric Alexander

  • Before the match, Noam Dar cut a promo explaining that Alicia Fox was at home nursing a neck injury.
  • Alexander took the early advantage, and the bulk of the offence in the mach. Dar would occasionally cut him off and lock him in submission holds. Alexander hit a springboard clothes for a near-fall, followed shortly after by the Lumbar Check for the win.
  • After the match Cedric told Noam he was done with him and Alicia Fox and was moving on.

Winner: Cedric Alexander

2. Mustafa Ali vs. Louie Valle

  • Ali looked to have the match under control and was going to the top rope when Drew Gulak’s siren blared and he made his way to the ring. He had his normal “No Fly Zone” protest sign and was shouting more rhyming phrases about how cruiserweights shouldn’t dive.
  • The distraction allowed Ali’s opponent to roll-him up, but Ali countered into a roll-up of his own and got the 3 count.
  • Gulak was pleased with this as Ali won with an actual wrestling move. He would later say that he felt he was really getting through to Ali.
  • After the match, Ali landed a springboard cannonball onto Gulak.

Winner: Mustafa Ali

  • A video package of Rich Swann’s latest highlights was shown. He mentioned that he plans on climbing all the way back to the top of the brand, and once again becoming cruiserweight champion.

3. Cruiserweight Championship
Neville (c) vs. TJP

  • TJP finally gets his title shot, his reward for weeks of doing Neville’s bidding, and helping him get through his title defences against Austin Aries.
  • Despite having turned heel not long ago, TJP wrestled as the babyface here. The story was that Neville getting the majority of the offence, but TJP kept coming.
  • Neville missed a diving corkscrew from the 2nd rope, which allowed TJP to lock in his knee-bar.
  • Neville looked as though he was going to tap, but then countered the hold into the Rings of Saturn, and TJP tapped.

Winner: Neville (retains)

Women’s MITB Briefcase (Photo), What Happened After SmackDown (Video), Sasha Banks

Staff
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– The dark match that took place after Tuesday’s SmackDown & 205 Live shows saw Randy Orton defeat WWE Champion Jinder Mahal by disqualification. It was said to be a good match until the Singh Brothers got involved, leading to the DQ. After the bell, Orton got revenge by hitting the brothers with RKO’s to end the show.

https://twitter.com/GoldGraps/status/872296481306419200

– On Tuesday’s SmackDown, commissioner Shane McMahon unveiled the Women’s Money in the Bank briefcase. Here’s a look at the briefcase Becky Lynch, Carmella, Tamina Snuka, Charlotte Flair and Natalya will be vying for on June 18th:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BVBIrt3AzTD/?taken-by=wwe

– RAW Superstar Sasha Banks was asked on Twitter if she felt the new Great Balls of Fire logo reminded her of … well, you know.

RAW Viewership Up This Week, But Below 3 Million For 6th Straight Week

Scott Lazara
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11

Monday’s episode of WWE RAW drew 2.994 million viewers, up from last week’s year-low of 2.613 million. Despite the increase, this marks the 6th straight week that the show has averaged less than 3 million viewers.

RAW featured the fallout from the WWE Extreme Rules PPV with Seth Rollins vs. Samoa Joe in the main event.

Here is this week’s hourly breakdown courtesy of ShowbuzzDaily:

  • Hour 1: 3.113 million viewers
  • Hour 2: 3.110 million viewers
  • Hour 3: 2.758 million viewers

RAW was #1 in viewership and #2 in the 18-49 demographic on cable this week.

Here’s this week’s Top 10 RAW Moments:

Jim Ross Says It Would Be A Privilege To Call Lesnar vs. Joe

Chris Stephens
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5

WWE Hall of Famer Jim Ross is fired up about the Samoa Joe vs. Brock Lesnar match-up at Great Balls of Fire. On the latest episode of his Ross Report podcast and in his latest blog at JRsBarBQ.com, JR says it would be an announcer’s dream to call the match.

At JRsBarBQ.com, Ross said he enjoyed Sunday’s Extreme Rules pay-per-view and thought the main event delivered in a big way. “All five men worked diligently and without personal agendas or so it seemed and delivered in a manner that main eventers are supposed to deliver,” he said. “Very proud of the men in this match.”

He also commented on Samoa Joe’s upcoming match against Brock Lesnar at Great Balls of Fire. “Samoa Joe getting his long awaited bout with Brock Lesnar is a stellar booking IMO and one that I endorsed at our RINGSIDE Show the night before WM31 in San Jose when Joe was my guest at our RINGSIDE Show .. I say that the Lesnar-Joe match will receive plenty of talk/hype over the next several weeks and that the two, physically demanding athletes will provide us a tremendous one on one main event in Dallas.”

Ross Hinting That He Is Calling GBOF Main Event

“I am personally looking forward to this match as much as any match I can recall this year and will tell you that it is an announcer’s dream to be privileged to call a bout like this … Yep, I’m fishing here.”

Lucha Underground Preview: Title Match Continues, Return of the Reptile Tribe, More

Chris Stephens
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4

Lucha Underground will air the 21st episode of their 3rd season tonight on the El Rey Network. Last week, Dario Cueto ruled that the “All Night Long” match between Mundo and the Mack, which ended in a tie, will continue under sudden death rules.

Kobra Moon’s Reptile Tribe

In the first part of season 3 we learned Kobra Moon is the leader of the “Reptile Tribe”, presumably one of the seven Aztec Tribes. We also learned that Kobra Moon believes that Drago should worship her as his Queen.

The El Rey Network posted this video of Kobra Moon giving a warning to the current LU Trios Champions:

Non-Spoiler NXT Preview and Confirmed Matches

Chris Stephens
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0

NXT is a taped show from Full Sail University tonight. Two big matches, including the main event, have already been confirmed. Two other matches are believed to air tonight as well.

Matches For NXT Tonight

  • No Way Jose vs. Killian Dain (Sanity)
    • No Way Jose made his return to NXT last week, helping Roderick Strong fend off Sanity. 
  • Hideo Itami vs. Oney Lorcan
    • Itami was shown getting into a heated confrontation with Kassius Ohno backstage at Takeover. The two were later shown shaking hands in the Performance Centre parking lot. Will Itami’s frustration with his NXT run continue?

Rumored Matches for Tonight:

  • Heavy Machinery vs. Lars Sullivan & Local Talent
  • Peyton Royce vs. Sarah Logan

Jerry Lawler: “Great Balls of Fire” Singer Claimed Copyright Infringement

Chris Stephens
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17

On the latest episode of his “Dinner with the King” podcast, Jerry Lawler mentioned WWE needed to make an arrangement with Jerry Lee Lewis over the “Great Balls of Fire” PPV name.

While WWE has shied away from potential legal action from both Ring of Honor and Anthem Sports and Entertainment recently, they were able to successful negotiate an arrangement with Lewis.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkuptd-gInQ

Jerry Lawler’s Comments on “Great Balls of Fire”

On Great Balls of Fire Name:

“It’s ‘Great Balls of FIRE’ not ‘Great BALLS of Fire’. You put the emphasis on the ‘Fire’, not on ‘Balls'”

On Jerry Lee Lewis Legal Action:

“My personal attorney here in Memphis, is Joe Barton, good friend of mine and attorney. I got a phone call from Joe a few weeks ago, and Joe also represents Jerry Lee Lewis. ‘Hey Jerry do you happen to know who I’d contact at the WWE about copyright infringement?’ and I was like ‘what are you talking about?’

‘Well, we understand that they’re doing a PPV called ‘Great Balls of Fire’ and Jerry Lee has that phrase trademarked. He has ever since they recorded the song’.

Lawler said attorney contacted WWE and now they are not only using the name but also the song as well. You can hear the whole podcast here.

Pete Dunne and Tyler Bate Switch Gimmicks for UK Match

Jake Skudder
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5

UK based promotion ATTACK! Pro Wrestling recently held their annual ‘video game’ inspired show Press Start. This was the event’s fifth year of existence and ATTACK! were promoting it as ‘glitched out’ with some strange social media posts such as this:

Fans of the promotion were kept in the dark on how this would affect the event….it was revealed on the night that every match would feature gimmick switches for the competitors involved.

One of the highlight bouts saw a rematch between WWE UK stars Tyler Bate & Pete Dunne. It turned out to be one of the most surreal (and fun) bouts that the two have ever had. Check out some of the gifs below to see what occurred and if you like what you see then please check out the event on ATTACK!’s Video on Demand service.

https://twitter.com/GolazoDan/status/872178397174263808

https://twitter.com/GolazoDan/status/872178784543408132

https://twitter.com/GolazoDan/status/872180157968265216

https://twitter.com/GolazoDan/status/872182231497879552

https://twitter.com/GolazoDan/status/872183024821129218

https://twitter.com/Tyler_Bate/status/870741847911661569

PROGRESS Announce First Two Matches for Chapter 50 feat. WWE UK Stars

Jake Skudder
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0

PROGRESS has announced the first two matches for their Chapter 50 event ‘I Give it Six Months.’

First up is a bout for the PROGRESS Tag Team Championships between current title holders British Strong Style (Tyler Bate & Trent Seven) and rising stars on the British scene #CCK. This will be #CCK’s official debut in PROGRESS and looks set to be a barnburner of a match.

Also confirmed is Toni Storm’s first defence of her PROGRESS Women’s Championship. Toni won the gold back at the Super Strong Style 16 event against Jinny and Laura Di Matteo. Her opponent Kay Lee Ray is one of the top performers in the ICW Women’s division so this match has the potential to be a show stealer.

Pro Wrestling World Cup: More Names Revealed for the US Qualifying Round

Jake Skudder
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0

The much anticipated Pro Wrestling World Cup has now officially begun.

If you have not yet heard of the tournament or are unaware of the format then check out the statement from WCPW below for full clarification:

“Run over ten separate dates beginning March 21st, the Pro Wrestling World Cup will see competitors from six continents compete in eight preliminary tournaments – to be held in several different countries.

The preliminaries will see eight men competing in a single fall elimination tournament. Each preliminary tournament will consist of competitors from a single country: Canada, England, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Scotland, USA. A tournament will also be held for competitors from the Rest Of The World, with eight further countries represented. Two winners will proceed from each tournament.”

WCPW sent out a tweet that appeared to confirm the next two participants in the United States Qualifying round of the tournament. Former WWE star Cody Rhodes and IMPACT Wrestling’s James Storm will be joining the already confirmed Bobby Fish and Ricochet in Manchester on July 21st.

Tickets for the event are available to purchase now via Eventbrite.

https://twitter.com/WhatCulturePW/status/872109575603978240

Raven Reveals Why He’s Turned Down WWE Job Offers

Jon Fuentes
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3

Former WWE Superstar Raven recently did an interview with ESPN to talk about his professional wrestling career and why he’s turned down multiple offers to work for WWE. You can see what he had to say here:

If he has any regrets about leaving WCW:

“I really wish I would’ve stayed. That’s one of my regrets. I didn’t stay because the idea he told me did nothing for me. I was gonna lose stock as a character, so I didn’t but I wish I would’ve [stayed] because the way things worked out with [Vince] Russo coming in six months later and Russo being a huge fan of mine, I probably would’ve been in the world title mix. I know I would’ve got way, way more money on my contract on my next deal because it was a year from being up, so I would’ve probably doubled what I was already making. So it really was a stupid idea of me to go, but I wasn’t having fun. It’s still a huge regret.”

Why he turned down offers from WWE:

“No, I wouldn’t take it. Here’s the problem– creative you’re just a cog. The problem is you create great ideas and then you don’t get to see them come to fruition. That’s so taxing to me emotionally because you get so involved in the characters. So that would suck. As far as being a backstage agent, I don’t have any interest in that because I’m not using my creativity in any really strong way. You’re just an agent, so that wouldn’t interest me. It’s a whole different world now. The old days I would’ve definitely been a booker somewhere, but now it’s a 24-hour, 7-day a week job. I have no interest in being on the road that much because after 30 years of being on the road I’m happy at home.”

His Johnny Polo gimmick in WWE:

“WWE made me Johnny Polo, which I never wanted to be. I never felt like I fit the character just because the way my vocal patterns are — sounds nothing like an upper Greenwich, Connecticut-type person. It sounds like a Philadelphia, south Philly kind of guy. It’s funny, Vince McMahon said to me when he let me go he goes, ‘you really aren’t Johnny Polo. It’s kind of a disconnect because you dress one way and when you leave the office, you dress a completely different way. You talk differently. You’re really not Johnny Polo.’ And I’m like, ‘I know, I never thought I was.”

You can check out Raven’s full interview with ESPN by clicking this link.

Alberto Del Rio Reveals How He’ll Help Impact Wrestling After Retirement

Jon Fuentes
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8

Former WWE Superstar and current Impact Wrestling star Alberto El Patron (a.k.a Alberto Del Rio) recently did an interview for Impact Wrestling during the promotion’s tour of India. Del Rio talked about his plans after retirement from pro wrestling, including how he plans to help Impact after he’s done competing in the ring. Here are the highlights:

For a long time, you were constantly linked with Impact Wrestling, and you finally made your debut earlier this year. Can you tell us what the fan reaction meant to you, with you being one of the top acquisitions for Impact Wrestling in the recent past?

“Oh, all the fans’ welcoming made me very happy. All my videos in the first week with Impact Wrestling went viral. We had more than 4 million viewers – people were just happy. People were talking about it for days, for weeks, because nobody expected to see me at Impact, especially because of all the rumors that said that I was going back to WWE. So for me to be there, make an impact and face Bobby Lashley, becoming the champion on the very first night, it was phenomenal.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4rXeo8GqA1Q

We previously talked about how long you see yourself as a professional wrestler. You said you’d be in the business for maybe 3 years. Is that still the case for you?

“Yes, definitely. Definitely. I’m not going to be doing this for too long.I’m tired, I’m just tired. I’m going to stop doing so many shows outside of the United States. I’m going to come back to India anytime they need me with Impact Wrestling. But I’m not going to do so many shows in Europe. I just cancelled my – one of the shows in Chile. I think I’m just going to take two weeks off because I want to go home and rest.

“After India, I have to go home. I think I have to be home for two days and I’m going to do some work. I was supposed to go to Chile but I cancelled it, because I want to take my kids to – I have a house in Orlando. So I’m planning on taking my kids to Orlando for the whole month. I need to rest. My brain needs to rest. And I think this is the perfect time, after this Indian tour.

“It looks like everything is going fantastically in India, and I just want it to be a surprise. I want to go home completely happy, be happy at the end of the tour, at the end of the shows. To go knowing this tour was a complete success.”

What does the future have in store for you?

“Well, I’m going to retire from pro wrestling soon. And if everything goes well, I will stay at Impact (Wrestling) working as an agent, a producer. Everybody loves my work, everybody loves my choreography. Everyone talks about the way I structure the matches and how when someone is in the ring with me, I will elevate that someone. So if that is something I can help with once I retire from my wrestling days, I will be completely happy doing it.

“So, once my in – ring days are over, I will be doing some agent/producer work for the company, and I’m going to continue working with Combate Americas and taking the company to new places, and help that company to grow. I have a lot of plans, a lot of projects outside wrestling, and most importantly, I am going to go home and enjoy with my family.”

You can check out the full interview here.

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions 

Lana Returns, Will Challenge Naomi At Money In The Bank

Robert Lentini
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12

On this week’s episode of SmackDown, Lana made her debut and asked to be a part of the Money in the Bank ladder match. Shane McMahon declined and Naomi laughed at her for even asking to be a part of it. Lana then claimed that she could defeat Naomi and got in her face. Shane McMahon then broke up the argument and told Lana that Women’s Championship matches needed to be earned. Lana then threw a tantrum and exited the ring.

During the 6-woman tag match on SmackDown, Lana came down to the ring and tripped up Naomi on the ring apron. This wound up costing Naomi the match and Lana posed with the Welcoming Committee after their victory. Later on during SmackDown, Naomi approached Shane McMahon backstage. Naomi asked for a match against Lana at Money in the Bank and said that she would be willing to put her SmackDown Women’s Championship on the line. SmackDown commissioner Shane McMahon then made the match official. Naomi will defend her title against Lana at Money in the Bank on June 18th.

Here is the updated card for WWE Money in the Bank:

  • WWE Championship Match: Jinder Mahal (c) vs Randy Orton
  • MITB Ladder Match: Baron Corbin vs Kevin Owens vs Shinsuke Nakamura vs Dolph Ziggler vs Sami Zayn vs AJ Styles
  • SmackDown Women’s Championship Match: Naomi (c) vs Lana
  • SmackDown Tag Team Championship Match: The Usos (c) vs New Day
  • Women’s MITB Ladder Match: Becky Lynch vs Carmella vs Tamina Snuka vs Charlotte Flair vs Natalya

WWE SmackDown Recap & Reaction (6/6)

Robert Lentini
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10

SmackDown commissioner Shane McMahon kicked off this week’s episode of SmackDown. Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, Tamina, Natalya and Carmella were all in the ring. James Ellsworth was also there looking completely ridiculous. Shane joined them in the ring and grabbed a microphone. Shane welcomed the crowd to SmackDown Live and the crowd cheered. Shane introduced the audience to the participants in the first ever women’s Money in the Bank Ladder match.

The crowd booed as Carmella, Natalya and Tamina were introduced. The audience then applauded as Shane announced Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch. Shane asked for a drumroll and revealed a white briefcase that said “Money in the Bank” on it. Shane discussed the history of the Money in the Bank ladder match and was interrupted by Ellsworth. Ellsworth told Shane McMahon that there was no need to mansplain the match. Carmella then grabbed the microphone and said she was going to win the match.

Charlotte interrupted and bragged about being genetically superior and stated that she was going to win the MITB contract and add to her legacy. Natalya accused Charlotte of ripping off her father. Becky then accused Natalya of ripping off her uncle Bret Hart. Becky guaranteed that she would win and Tamina interrupted and said that she was going to win the match and shut everyone up.

Naomi’s music hit and she danced down to the ring. Naomi grabbed a microphone and stated that she wished that she could be in the MITB ladder match because she knows it is going to be “lit” as the kids say. Lana’s music hit and she made her way to the ring. Shane said it wasn’t the correct time for Lana to be in the ring. Lana said she wanted to be in the match and the other Superstars chuckled.

Naomi cackled into the microphone and Lana asked her what was so funny. Naomi said “Bugs Bunny and you”. Naomi then asked Lana who has she ever beaten and then hummed the jeopardy theme. Lana stated that she could defeat Naomi and got right in her face. Shane then said that Lana needed to earn a SmackDown Women’s Championship match is something she needed to earn. Lana then threw a tantrum and exited the ring as the crowd chanted “let’s go Lana”.

Reaction: Wouldn’t it have made sense here for Shane to announce a non-title match between Lana and Naomi? If Lana won the match, she would have been added to the MITB ladder match. I thought that was going to happen the entire time during this promo. It wound up not happening and this entire promo felt awkward. For some reason, they had this big reveal of a white briefcase and the crowd didn’t really react to it at all.

Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch & Naomi vs Natalya, Tamina & Carmella

Natalya and Charlotte started off the match. Natalya controlled the match early but Charlotte fought back with a couple of chops. Carmella barked at Charlotte from the ring apron and Becky Lynch tagged herself into the match. Carmella was tagged in and she knocked Becky to the mat. Becky went for a roll-up and Carmella kicked out. Becky then locked Carmella with her legs and rolled around the ring several times as Carmella screamed for help.

Carmella knocked Becky out of the ring and Natalya laid her out with a Clothesline as SmackDown went to a commercial break. When SmackDown returned, Tamina and Becky Lynch were in the ring. Tamina knocked Becky to the mat for a two count. Natalya was then tagged in and continued the beatdown on Lynch. The crowd chanted “let’s go Becky” as Natalya locked in a Chin Lock. Becky fought out of the hold and connected with a kick to Natalya’s head.

Naomi and Carmella then entered the match and Naomi connected with a series of kicks. Naomi hit a Jawbreaker on Carmella. Tamina was then tagged in and she was greeted with a kick to the face by Naomi. Naomi hit a springboard Crossbody and went for a pinfall but Carmella broke it up. Charlotte hit Carmella with a big boot. Tamina and Natalya then teamed up on Charlotte. Lana came down to the ring and tripped up Naomi on the ring apron. Tamina then connected with a Superkick on Naomi for the victory.

Winners: Natalya, Tamina & Carmella

Reaction: I thought this match was decent. Lana interfered and attacked Naomi so I guess a feud is starting up between them. Naomi is not involved in the MITB ladder match, so I’m guessing Lana will have a match with her at the PPV.

Shane McMahon was shown backstage by the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal trophy. Mojo Rawley said he has been a ghost on SmackDown since winning the battle royal. Mojo said that he is motivated that Shane McMahon didn’t include him in the MITB ladder match. Rawley said that he is the only Superstar that has defeated Jinder Mahal since coming to SmackDown. Shane said that if Mojo can defeat Mahal tonight, he will be added to the MITB ladder match.

 

AJ Styles vs Dolph Ziggler

Ziggler connected with a Dropkick early for a two count as SmackDown went to a commercial break. When SmackDown returned, Styles connected with a Clothesline and knocked Ziggler to the mat. Ziggler went for a pinfall with his feet on the ropes and the referee caught it. Ziggler then hit a Fameasser for a two count. Styles connected with a forearm and followed it up with a Styles Clash for the victory.

Winner: AJ Styles

Reaction: Styles lost to Ziggler last week on SmackDown but put him away quickly tonight. These matches have felt pretty meaningless and seems like WWE is just trying to kill time before MITB.

Another episode of Fashion Files with Breezango was shown. This episode was in black and white. Fandango was wearing a tie with no shirt and a cowboy hat. The New Day interrupted and asked Breezango if they could help them out with a case. New Day handed Breezango a couple of rompers. New Day asked for some intel about The Usos and Breezango handed them a few boxes.

Reaction: This was painfully unfunny. I’m all for funny characters and skits. There is one major requirement though, they actually have to be funny.

Mojo Rawley vs Jinder Mahal

Mojo started out the match in control and slammed Mahal to the mat. Jinder quickly rolled to the ring apron and the Singh Brothers gave him a pep-talk. Mojo leveled Mahal with a shoulder tackle and knocked him out of the ring. Jinder got back to the ring and was knocked back to the mat again. One of the Singh Brothers jumped up on the ring apron and distracted Mojo.

Jinder took advantage and booted Mojo in the face. Mahal then leveled Rawley with a Clothesline and applied a Chin Lock. Rawley powered out of the hold but Mahal raked Mojo in across the eyes. Mahal then hit the Khallas for the victory.

Winner: Jinder Mahal

After the match, Jinder Mahal grabbed the microphone and told the audience to be quiet. Mahal bragged about being WWE Champion and the crowd started chanting “USA!”. Mahal said that he dismantled Mojo’s dreams and he was going to dismantle Orton’s dream of becoming WWE Champion in his hometown of St.Louis. Mahal said that Randy Orton and his fans are sick and he is the antidote. Mahal then spoke in Punjabi and raised the title. Mahal then went to the turnbuckle to raise the WWE Championship and almost tripped over the bottom rope.

Reaction: I have no idea what is going on with Mahal’s voice, but his promos have been very soft-spoken for the past couple of weeks. It really is bizarre because I’ve had to turn up the volume on my television to hear his promos. I feel like he should be shouting and insulting the audience. Instead, his promos are almost cordial as he insults the crowd. It doesn’t make any sense to me. I’m bored with the Orton and Mahal feud and want it to be over. I don’t think the SmackDown product would be any better if Orton was WWE Champion. I’m fine with Mahal as the champ for now, I just want him to face someone else. This feud sucks and has no emotion behind it.

Randy Orton was interviewed backstage by Renee Young. Orton said that he received calls from WWE legends after SmackDown last week and they told him that actions speak louder than words. Orton said that he doesn’t need to say anything and will let his actions do the talking in two weeks at Money in the Bank.

Reaction: I would have loved to see Mahal attack Orton during this backstage interview. Hell, I would have taken Mahal walking by him and giving him a dirty look. Can we get a storyline in a WWE Championship feud? Is that too much to ask? At this rate, throw the WWE Championship match on the MITB Kickoff Show because nobody gives a damn about it. This feud has been so phoned-in that it is becoming ridiculous.

New Day vs The Colons

New Day controlled this entire match. Woods and Big E hit the Midnight Hour for the victory. After the match, The Usos came down to the entrance ramp and cut a promo on the New Day. The Usos welcomed New Day to the Uso penitentiary and made a few jokes. They called Kofi a ballerina, and said that the “E” in Big E was his bra size. They also poked fun at Xavier Woods’ ridiculous shoes.

Winners: New Day

Reaction: The Usos have been one of the better parts of SmackDown recently. I have really enjoyed their work as heels. I’m also looking forward to seeing them wrestle against a team that doesn’t dress up as old ladies and bring squirt guns to the ring.

Sami Zayn was interviewed backstage. Zayn stated that he has been studying up on his opponents in the MITB ladder match. Zayn claimed that he cannot figure out Shinsuke Nakamura and will join commentary for his match tonight against Kevin Owens. Baron Corbin then showed up and attacked Zayn. Corbin then launched Zayn into a stack of ladders that just happened to be there. Corbin then stated that he will be joining commentary instead.

Naomi asked Shane McMahon for a match against Lana at Money in the Bank. Naomi said that she would even put her title on the line. Shane McMahon then made the match official. Naomi will defend the SmackDown Women’s Championship against Lana at Money in the Bank.

Kevin Owens vs Shinsuke Nakamura

Baron Corbin joined commentary for this match. Nakamura connected with a kick that knocked Owens and SmackDown went to a commercial break. When SmackDown returned, Owens was in control of the match. Owens applied a Chin Lock in the middle of the ring. Nakamura battled out of the hold but Owens planted him a DDT for a two count.

Nakamura connected with a kick that knocked Owens to the mat. Nakamura perched Owens up on the top rope and kicked him in the midsection for a two count. Owens connected with a headbutt and followed it up with a Clothesline in the corner. Owens then perched Nakamura up on the top turnbuckle and joined him there. Owens went for a Superplex but Nakamura blocked it.

Shinsuke connected with a couple of punches and knocked Owens off the turnbuckle. Owens then dragged him down to the mat and connected with a Cannonball. Nakamura hit Owens with a kick and a reverse Exploder Suplex. Nakamura then hit the Kinshasa for the victory.

Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura

After the match, Corbin attacked Nakamura and planted him with the End of Days.

Reaction: The match between Nakamura and Owens was essentially five minutes. There was a commercial break right when it started and it ended with a few minutes left in the show. Corbin would make the most sense to me as the Superstar that wins the briefcase at Money in the Bank.

Overall, I thought this week’s episode of SmackDown was terrible. Almost everything felt half-assed on this show. I’m not really invested in any storyline on SmackDown right now. SmackDown has one more show until Money in the Bank and it would take a miracle for any of these storylines to become interesting next week. I’m looking forward to the ladder matches and that is about it. I honestly could care less about anything else scheduled for the PPV.

The PPV will probably turn out to be entertaining, but WWE is having a hell of a time creating interesting television on RAW and SmackDown right now. The declining ratings certainly reflect that and I don’t this episode of SmackDown will create any buzz to attract new viewers. There really wasn’t anything interesting that happened tonight. I guess Lana making her debut was the highlight of the show.

What did you think of this week’s episode of SmackDown? Share your thoughts below.

Follow Robert Lentini: @MankyMedia

WWE SmackDown Results & Live Discussion (6/6)

Eric Lynch
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59

The June 6th edition of WWE SmackDown aired live from the Blue Cross Arena in Rochester, NY.

– The women of SmackDown (and James Ellsworth) are in the ring, and they’re joined by Shane McMahon to open up the show. Shane calls for a drum roll, then a black box drops from the ceiling. Shane takes it and reveals the women’s Money In the Bank briefcase, then the Money In The Bank theme song briefly plays. Shane starts to explain how the Money In The Bank ladder match works, but Ellsworth interrupts and tells Shane to stop man-splaining because they know how the match works, duh. The women get into a war of words until Naomi comes out to interrupt. Naomi says even though she loves being champion, she wishes she could be in the Money In The Bank ladder match. Lana interrupts next. Lana makes her way out to the ring, but Shane says she wasn’t scheduled and this doesn’t work for him. Lana says Naomi can’t compete, but she can, and Lana wants a spot in the match. Naomi laughs at her and points out that Lana has never had a match, then asks who Lana has ever beaten. Lana says she can beat Naomi. Shane tells Lana she has to earn her spot in the match, and Lana walks off upset. As she leaves, the crowd chants “we want Lana.” Shane calls for a referee, because we have a six-woman tag match up next.

– Natalya, Carmella & Tamina def. Naomi, Becky Lynch & Charlotte: Charlotte starts things off against Natalya and lays into her with chops to the chest. Charlotte hits a knee drop then Becky tags in. Carmella tags in and Becky rolls Carmella up in a series of pin attempts. Becky hits a flying forearm on Carmella for a two count. Carmella throws Becky outside where Natalya hits Becky with a discus clothesline on the floor. Back in the ring, Natalya and Tamina take turns working over Becky. Naomi and Carmella get the tags and Naomi drops Carmella with a series of kicks. Tamina comes in and Naomi hits a kick to the head, but Tamina throws her into the corner. Naomi hits another kick and a springboard cross body for a two count. Lana comes back down the ramp and trips Naomi from ringside, which leads to Tamina hitting a superkick for the win.

– Mojo Rawley confronts Shane McMahon backstage about not getting an opportunity in the Money In The Bank ladder match. Shane says he can have a spot in the match if he beats Jinder Mahal in singles action tonight.

– AJ Styles def. Dolph Ziggler: Ziggler hits a big dropkick in the opening moments of this rematch from last week for a two count. Ziggler and Styles trade right hands in the middle of the ring until AJ drops Dolph with a clothesline. Ziggler rolls up AJ and puts his feet on the ropes, but the referee breaks the pin. Ziggler hits the Fameasser on AJ for a two count. Ziggler takes AJ up top for a superplex, but AJ gets out. AJ elbows Ziggler in the face and Ziggler comes back with another rollup pin attempt holding the ropes. AJ gets out and comes back with the Styles Clash for the win.

– It’s time for the latest edition of the Fashion Files. Fandango and Breeze are in their office talking about the Colons when they get interrupted by The New Day. The New Day says they need The Fashion Police to take on a new case. The New Day says they want The Fashion Police to help them research The Usos, and Breeze and Fandango hand over their boxes of evidence. The Fashion Police say they’re on the case.

– Jinder Mahal def. Mojo Rawley: The Singh Brothers come out before Jinder to introduce the WWE Champion. This one is a non-title match. Mojo starts off strong with a flying shoulder block that sends Jinder rolling outside. Back in the ring, Mojo hits another shoulder block, but then he’s distracted by the Singh Brothers at ringside. Jinder capitalizes on the distraction by booting Mojo in the face then dropping some knees on him. Mojo comes back with some right hands and a splash in the corner. Mojo gets Jinder in the Fireman’s Carry position, but Jinder rakes the eyes and throws Mojo in the corner. Jinder grabs Mojo from behind and hits the Cobra Clutch slam for the win.

– After the match, the Singh Brothers bring Jinder his WWE Championship belt, then the lights go out with a spotlight on Jinder in the ring. Mojo cuts a promo saying he dismantled the dreams of Mojo Rawley just like he’s going to dismantle Randy Orton’s dream of winning back the Title in his hometown. Jinder says Orton and the rest of the Americans are sick, and Jinder is the antidote. Jinder says after he cures Randy Orton at Money In The Bank, the fans will have no choice but to accept Jinder. Jinder then speaks to his people in his language before leaving.

– A Shinsuke Nakamura highlight reel airs featuring clips of someone painting a picture of him.

– The New Day is backstage getting ready to come out to the ring.

– Randy Orton does an interview backstage where he says he’s talked to his father, Ric Flair and Harley Race who all told him to let Jinder talk trash because actions speak louder than words. Orton says at Money In The Bank he won’t have to say a word but Jinder will hear him fine.

– The New Day def. The Colons: Xavier Woods and Big E are representing the New Day in this one. Primo starts off in control against Xavier, but when Epico tags in Xavier takes him back to the corner and Big E tags in. This leads to Big E and Xavier getting both Colons in abdominal stretches and spanking them in stereo. Xavier hits a missile dropkick off the top on Primo, then Big E and Epico tag in. Big E hits a series of belly to belly suplexes, followed up by a running splash. Xavier takes out Primo at ringside with a suicide dive, while Epico rolls up Big E from behind in the ring for a two count. Xavier tags in and they hit the Midnight Hour on Epico for the win. After the match, The Usos come out and cut a promo on The New Day from the ramp.

– Kevin Owens is backstage taping up his wrists for his match tonight against Nakamura.

– Sami Zayn does an interview backstage where he says he’s been watching footage of all of his Money In the Bank opponents to prepare for the match. Zayn says he’s going to join the commentary team for Nakamura vs. Owens tonight for a closer look. Baron Corbin interrupts and beats down Zayn. Corbin hits him with a ladder, then throws him into some more ladders. Corbin says he’ll be taking Zayn’s spot on commentary tonight.

– Shane McMahon is backstage on the phone and he’s not pleased with Corbin. Naomi comes in and asks for a match against Lana, and says she’s willing to put her title on the line. Shane books Naomi to defend her Women’s Title against Lana at Money In The Bank.

– Shinsuke Nakamura def. Kevin Owens: Baron Corbin is on commentary for this one. Nakamura starts off strong and sends Owens rolling to the outside. Owens pulls Nakamura outside and hits a fallaway slam into the fan barricade. Back in the ring, Owens follows up with strikes and a chin lock. Nakamura starts fighting back but Owens drops him with a DDT for a two count. Owens and Nakamura trade forearm shots until Nakamura drops him with a kick. Nakamura hits some more kicks and elbows to the face. Nakamura hits a splash in the corner then lays Owens across the ropes in the corner for a knee strike. Owens headbutts Nakamura then hits a running clothesline in the corner. Owens goes up for a superplex but Nakamura fights him off. Owens drops Nakamura into the bottom turnbuckle then hits the cannonball in the corner. Nakamura comes back with a spinning heel kick on Owens then a back suplex. Nakamura hits the running knee for the face for the win. After the match, Baron Corbin runs in and hits the End of Days on Nakamura. Corbin heads backstage as we see replays of the End of Days and SmackDown goes off the air.

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