SmackDown Superstar Jeff Hardy was a guest on this week’s episode of WWE show The Bump. During his time on the show, Hardy reflected on his recent feud with Sheamus. He acknowledged the comparisons that could be made between their current rivalry with his previous feud with CM Punk back in 2009. Both feuds utilized Hardy’s real-life personal problems as a starting point for a storyline.
“Since my early 20’s, I’ve been in and out of addiction – the roller coaster of good and bad. Sadly, but in a creative sense, it’s been a big power for me,” Hardy admitted. “Even back in the days of feuding with [CM] Punk, it kind of reminds me of that with Sheamus. It can be extremely uncomfortable at times, but that’s when I’ve got to stay strong on my beliefs, and where I am right now.”
The hosts then spoke about his feud with Punk, highlighting when Punk cashed in his Money in the Bank briefcase on Hardy back at Extreme Rules 2009. Hardy confessed the moment gives him “goosebumps” and that he was genuinely excited for Punk to have his moment. He added how he was happy to be a “tremendous loser” that night, arguing that if you’re a good loser in pro wrestling you’re a better winner in the bigger scheme of things.
Jeff Hardy recently lost his matchup against Sheamus at WWE’s last pay-per-view, Backlash.
WWE’s current Intercontinental champion AJ Styles has denied rumors regarding his move from RAW to SmackDown. Reports suggested that Styles had essentially been bullied off of Monday Night RAW and that the “Phenomenal One” was upset with Paul Heyman after Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson were released by the promotion.
Speaking on a recent Mixer stream, Styles addressed the rumors head-on:
“[…] there were some rumors going around that AJ Styles left Raw to go to SmackDown because he was being bullied. That may be the dumbest thing I’ve ever heard,” Styles stated. “I’m a grown man. If there was some bullying going on that upset me enough to leave Raw and go to SmackDown, I would handle it…”
Styles then turned his attention to the supposed Heyman animosity regarding his former OC members. He stressed how “that’s now what it was at all. Not even close.” AJ Styles then shared a snippet of what he, Gallows and Anderson know by labeling Heyman a liar.
“He’s a liar, now you know. I’m sure you’ve heard that before if you go back to his ECW days, you’ll hear that. He’s a bold-faced liar. That’s my take on that.”
Styles’ former teammates, Gallows and Anderson, were let go by WWE as a cut cutting measure due to the coronavirus pandemic’s impact on business. They joined several other WWE Superstars and backstage personnel in being released.
All Elite Wrestling President and CEO Tony Khan has shared his thoughts on this week’s ratings battle between Dynamite and WWE NXT. The two went head-to-head on Wednesday night with concurrent specials. AEW delivered Fyter Fest Night Two and WWE hosted NXT Great American Bash Night Two.
NXT Great American Bash Night Two actually defeated Fyter Fest Night Two in total viewership. This was WWE’s third victory in a row. However, they did not top the key demographic ratings. Khan took to Twitter to reflect on the numbers. He argued how he considers being a top 7 show on cable a “huge win.”
Khan stressed how “A win in the demo is a win in the business, and this is a business.” He noted how the industry as a whole no longer talks about the demographic as much as 20 years ago but explained how it “drives our revenue today.”
Here’s the chart the industry uses to analyze performance. The leftmost color-coded column is 18-49 demo. The rightmost color-coded column is total viewers. The chart’s ranked by 18-49 viewers. We love & value all viewers, in or outside that demo, but that’s how we score the game pic.twitter.com/aipX0MDfjP
He shared the Nielsen ratings chart and stated how AEW loves and values all its viewers, whether they are inside or outside that 18-49 year old demographic. Khan did add, however, that this is how “we score the game.”
Tony Khan revealed he was thrilled about the ratings from this Wednesday night. He tweeted about celebrating with A Little Bit of the Bubbly on Thursdays whenever AEW is in the top 10. He added how “this is the 3rd time in 4 weeks, & I’m grateful for the great #AEW fans that make it possible!”
AEW will host another special episode next Wednesday night with Fight for the Fallen.
Viewership data is in for this week’s battle in the WWE NXT vs. AEW Dynamite Wednesday Night War.
NXT won the night in total viewers, but it was AEW, which won in the key 18-49 demo. Here is the breakdown of the live and same-night DVR viewership, courtesy of ShowbuzzDaily:
WWE NXT Viewership
NXT on the USA Network averaged 759,000 viewers, down last week’s 792,000. In the 18-49 demo, they drew a 0.20 rating, down from 0.22 last week.
The episode featured North American Champion Keith Lee vs. NXT Champion Adam Cole in a Winner Takes All Match, Santos Escobar, Raul Mendoza, Joaquin Wilde vs. Drake Maverick and Breezango, Isaiah “Swerve” Scott vs. Johnny Gargano, and Mia Yim vs. Candice LeRae in a Street Fight.
AEW Dynamite on TNT was watched by 715,000 viewers, down from the 748,000 viewers last week. In the 18-49 demo, Dynamite pulled in a 0.28 rating, down from the 0.29 rating that the show did last week.
AEW Dynamite featured bouts such as Orange Cassidy vs. Chris Jericho, FTR & Young Bucks vs. Butcher, Blade & Lucha Bros, Lance Archer vs. Joey Janela, SCU vs The Dark Order, and AEW World Tag Team Champions Kenny Omega & Adam Page vs. Private Party.
WWE Hall of Famer and AEW Commentator Jim Ross recently discussed a number of intriguing topics on the Grilling JR podcast. A recent episode of the audio show saw JR and co-host Conrad Thompson look at the 7.6.98 episode of WCW Monday Nitro.
During the episode talk turned to AEW and co-host Conrad Thompson made a joke related to former NXT Champion Adam Cole. JR would then give his opinion on the longtime NXT Superstar and how he would sometimes appear at AEW events to support his real life partner Britt Baker.
“Adam Cole is a good kid” Jim Ross began. “I’ve got a lot of time for him. He’s a great, great worker.”
“We had a big Memorial Day party in Jacksonville” JR continued. “And sometimes when he’s off? He’ll come join his wife, which is cool. He’s always welcome in our group. And he’s just, just a pleasure to be around.”
Jim Ross would also praise Britt Baker for her recent character work on AEW television. “Britt? She’s playing her role very well, she’s getting better and better. You see her improving her game [all the time].”
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WWE Hall of Famer and co-host of SiriusXM’s Busted Open Radio Bully Ray recently discussed Heath Slater’s appearance on WWE RAW this week. This was Slater’s first appearance on the show since being released by WWE due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and having to ‘cut costs.’
Bully Ray would mention on Busted Open how performers like Heath Slater do not get enough credit; Ray believes that Slater still has a lot of potential and that Superstars like him get ‘typecast’ by the company.
Bully Ray on Heath Slater
“Sometimes in a company like WWE? Once they have you typecast or pigeonholed or have a certain idea of what you are or what they’re going to need you to be? You can never get out of that” Bully Ray began on the SiriusXM show.
“Heath Slater was there for a long time and was always used in a certain role. He gets let go and then all of a sudden somebody on the writing team says ‘hey let’s bring him back to do this’ and within five minutes? You see the guy has range” Bully would continue. “You see what he can do. And you’re like, ‘well if he was that good last night why didn’t they do that with him for the past 10 years!?'”
Bully Ray would elaborate further, saying “I know that they put you in a certain role, and they compartmentalise you. You have your five minutes to get over and in those five minutes they decide what they’re going to do with you, sometimes for an entire career. SOME key guys and gals are able to get out of it. You know, they always talk about grabbing the brass ring. I thought last night, he [Heath Slater] did.”
Do you think that Heath Slater deserves another chance in WWE? Let us know in the comments
WWE Hall of Famer and AEW Commentator Jim Ross recently discussed a number of intriguing topics on the Grilling JR podcast. A recent episode of the audio show saw JR and co-host Conrad Thompson look at the 7.6.98 episode of WCW Monday Nitro.
This episode of the WCW flagship show was hugely significant, as it featured Goldberg challenging for and winning the WCW World Championship against Hollywood Hulk Hogan.
Conrad would ask JR about Hogan on the show, asking if he ever thought that the massively popular Hogan character from the 80s would transition so well to being the biggest heel in the wrestling business in the late 90s.
Jim Ross on Hollywood Hogan
“Well I thought at the end of the day? It would be timely” Jim Ross began on the podcast. “I thought that probably it was going to be a no brainer at some point…if done correctly. He [Hogan] was a galvanising figure, very polarising to a lot of fans. So, I wasn’t shocked about it quite frankly. Hulk you know, he was all over the territories over the early part of his career, so he understood the psychology and the difference that it takes to make a great babyface, which he was; and then subsequently what is took to become a great villain, at which he did a hell of a job.”
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Tony Khan and AEW have suspended Big Swole for an undetermined amount of time. The suspension is as a result of Swole kidnapping Britt Baker on a recent episode of Dynamite. Khan later was adamant that wrestlers are not permitted to kidnap one another.
Swole was served with a letter on Dynamite informing her that she was suspended. She would show up inside Daily’s Place later in the show, however.
“As we just informed @SwoleWorld on #AEWDynamite via formal letter, Big Swole has been suspended from AEW for kidnapping Dr. Britt Baker. Wrestlers can’t kidnap each other. We asked Swole to go home to cool off. Swole’s an important member of our team, and we’ll see her back soon,” Tony Khan Tweeted.
As we just informed @SwoleWorld on #AEWDynamite via formal letter, Big Swole has been suspended from AEW for kidnapping Dr. Britt Baker. Wrestlers can’t kidnap each other. We asked Swole to go home to cool off. Swole’s an important member of our team, and we’ll see her back soon.
Tony Khan Clarifies AEW Policy Regarding Wrestler Kidnapping
Khan would also respond to some questions online about what is and is not a suspendible offence in AEW.
Lance Archer assaults people and then throws them at or around the ring. That’s different. This is wrestling. You have to draw the line somewhere, but assault isn’t it.
“Fair enough on the coffee, but take away the kidnapping, which we can’t condone, and then I thought the coffee was offset by the garbage (twice) + then using your credential and an #AEW facemask to get back into the building under false pretenses, so I’d say call it even on that,” Khan Tweeted.
Next week’s episode of AEW Dynamite will be branded “Fight for the Fallen.” The show will raise money for COVID-19 relief. The Khan family has already donated $1 million as part of the fundraising efforts.
Last year’s inaugural FTTF event raised money for victims of gun violence.
The main event will be see AEW World Champion Jon Moxley’s highly anticipated defense against “The Machine” Brian Cage. This bout was previously scheduled for Fyter Fest Week 2, however it was postponed due to COVID-19 concerns. Moxley’s wife, WWE broadcaster Renee Young, tested positive for the virus last month.
AEW Champion Jon Moxley vs. FTW Champion Brian Cage
AEW has also booked a TNT title match for the show. Cody will defend the belt against Sonny Kiss.
After being on the losing end of an 8-man tag this week on Dynamite, FTR will look to get back in the win column at Fight for the Fallen. They will take on the Lucha Bros in tag action on the show.
Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks will team up in 6-man action at Fight for the Fallen. They will take on all 3 members of Jurassic Express.
AEW Fight for the Fallen Card
The full lineup for the show is below:
– AEW World Champion Jon Moxley vs. FTW Champion “The Machine” Brian Cage
– TNT Champion Cody vs Sonny Kiss
– The Elite (Kenny Omega and the Young Bucks) vs. Jurassic Express (Jungle Boy, Luchasaurus, Marko Stunt)
– FTR (Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler) vs The Lucha Bros (Pentagon Jr. & Fenix)
Ring of Honor has announced that the next episode of its weekly television program will be a tribute to Hana Kimura. She wrestled 4 matches for the promotion including at the G1 Supercard in Madison Square Garden in 2019.
“Next week on ROH TV is a very special tribute episode celebrating the career of Hana Kimura We look back at Hana’s ROH matches, Her G1 Supercard match at Madison Square Garden, The stars of ROH share their favorite memories of Hana & more!” ROH Tweeted.
Following a period of mourning, Hana Kimura’s family has been speaking out concerning Hana’s death. Her mother has stated to media that producers for the Terrance House reality show encouraged Hana to act aggressively on the show. Fuji TV has said they are currently investigating the matter.
2. This is the first time that Kyoko Kimura is responding to the mainstream media after Hana's death.
On May 15th, Hana celebrated her grandmother's birthday with her grandmother & mother…
Hana Kimura was only 22 years-old when she died on May 23rd, 2020. Her death has led numerous wrestling personalities to speak out against a toxic social media culture.
In response to Hana’s passing, the Japanese government is looking into stronger anti-cyberbullying laws.
“Online slander only serves to induce even more similar messages, and this is a serious violation of human rights,” Justice Minister Masako Mori said on the matter.
WWE Hall of Famer Booker T has shared his thoughts on Heath Slater’s recent return to Monday Night RAW. Speaking on his podcast The Hall of Fame, Booker T stressed how Slater’s “not a guy you want to lose.”
He explained how Slater is a talent “you want on your team” as he’s going to make sure to “pull his weight.” Booker T added how Slater is committed to playing the role he is given, whatever that may be.
“That’s what I talk in this game all the time as far as ‘hey man, just play your role tonight. Don’t try to play someone else’s role. If you do that, we’ll have a great show tonight, but if you go out there and you want to take one job then take on another job, then you got three jobs that you’re trying to take on, and then, you complain about it. You’re the one who took those jobs.'” Booker T said. “Heath Slater is a guy that’s gonna play his role, and that’s why he got the phone call. ‘Hey Heath, you want to come on back?’ That’s what it’s about.”
Booker T went on to compare Heath Sleater to WCW wrestler Brad Armstrong. He explained how Armstrong never had to worry about his job. That’s because he was a “utility guy.”
Extrapolating his point, Booker T added how Armstong could do just about anything at a moment’s notice. He noted that Slater has the same ability. He argued that this makes him a valuable talent that you can trust to get the job done.
Triple H has congratulated newly crowned NXT North American and NXT Champion Keith Lee. Lee emerged victorious from the Winner Take All match with Adam Cole during last night’s NXT Great American Bash Night Two.
Taking to social media, Triple H reflected on the occasion, calling it a “truly historic night” for NXT. He also noted how, with Lee now NXT Champion, the possibilities going forward are limitless.
“A truly historic night for #WWENXT tonight at #NXTGAB as @RealKeithLee now holds both the #NXTChampionship AND #NXTNATitle. Each new champion begins a new era… where he brings @WWENXT? The possibilities are #Limitless. #Congrats”
“The Game” also reflected on Adam Cole’s contribution to WWE’s black-and-gold brand. His loss ended his historic 403-day reign as NXT Champion.
Triple H explained how there is a saying that goes “it’s the talent that makes the title.” He stressed how Cole’s reign in NXT made the NXT Championship as prestigious as it is. Although the run may be over, Triple H noted how Cole is “just getting started.” He highlighted how Adam Cole is NXT and that fact is undisputed.
After the match, Lee dedicated his victory to WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry. Cameras caught up with the Undisputed Leader as well. Unable to voice his feelings at the moment, Cole walked away from the interview.
Keith Lee has dedicated his momentous championship victory to WWE Hall of Famer Mark Henry. Lee successfully defeated former-NXT Champion Adam Cole last night in a Winner Take All match up. He is now the NXT North American and NXT World Champion.
Speaking after his win, Lee spoke about making NXT history before dedicating his win and remembering his trainer, “Killer” Tim Brooks who recently passed away. When asked how he felt, he admitted he was in a lot of pain. Despite the discomfort, however, he reflected on the moment, calling his journey “sweet in so many ways.”
“History, McKenzie. I’m feeling like a historian. I’m feeling historical,” Keith Lee said. “How else do you describe this, except for ‘magic’?”
Lee continued, “I believe Mark Henry said to me that I would bring back — forgive me if I misquote him, but, I’m fairly certain I was paying attention when he said I would bring back — ‘big man magic.’ Mr. Henry, this one’s for you, too. But more importantly, McKenzie, my coach who just passed away, just last week, once told me I would be the top, I would be one of the best this industry has ever seen. Today, he’s a prophet, and for me it doesn’t get sweeter than that.”
Keith Lee’s championship victory saw him snap Adam Cole’s record-setting 403-day reign as NXT Champion.
If you use any quotes from this article, please provide a H/T to SEScoops.
WWE’s Renee Young has provided an update on her current condition having recently confirmed she, unfortunately, contracted COVID-19.
Taking to Twitter, Young implored her follows to wear face masks. She explained how doing so could be lifesaving, whether it’s your life or somebody else’s. Young also stressed how people need to trust her on this subject as she is somebody who has actively suffered from coronavirus.
Renee Young wrote:
“Just a friendly little reminder: wearing a mask can literally be saving yours or someone else’s life. As someone that’s had covid – trust me, you don’t want it. Be safe. Take care of each other.”
Just a friendly little reminder: wearing a mask can literally be saving yours or someone else’s life. As someone that’s had covid- trust me, you don’t want it. Be safe. Take care of each other.
Renee Young confirmed via social media on June 24 that she had tested positive for COVID-19. Her public announcement reportedly displeased some within WWE. She noted how she felt sick with pressure on her chest whilst being unable to do anything but stay in bed. She also lost her sense of taste. Given her recent tweet, it appears as though Young has thankfully gotten through the worst of it and has seemingly recovered.
Her positive test had a subsequent impact on All Elite Wrestling. Renee Young’s husband, Jon Moxley, was set to defend his AEW World Championship last night during Fyter Fest Night Two. However, as he had been in contact with someone with COVID-19 symptoms, the title bout was delayed. Moxley now faces challenger, and new FTW Champion Brian Cage, next week at Fight for the Fallen.
Night 2 of Fyter Fest aired on TNT tonight. Omega & Hangman Page defended the AEW Tag Team Championships against Private Party. FTR teamed up with the Young Bucks to face Lucha Bros and Butcher & Blade. Chris Jericho battled Orange Cassidy tonight as well. Taz brought back the FTW Championship and awarded it to Brian Cage during tonight’s show. Moxley will defend the AEW Championship against Brian Cage next week at Fight for the Fallen.
Taz unveils the new FTW World Championship and gives it to Brian Cage ?
Omega & Page def. Private Party to retain the AEW Tag Team Championships
Lance Archer def. Joey Janela
Lucha Bros, Butcher & Blade def. Young Bucks & FTR
Nyla Rose def. Kenzi Paigie & Kilynn King
Dark Order def. SCU
Chris Jericho def. Orange Cassidy
Here are 5 takeaways from Night 2 of Fyter Fest:
Omega & Page Are Still The Tag Team Champions
Omega and Page defended their AEW Tag Team Championships against Private Party (Isiah Kassidy & Marq Quen). Matt Hardy accompanied Private Party to the ring.
Match Recap: Quen and Omega locked up in the middle of the ring to start off the match. Kenny took control and stomped on Marq in the corner of the ring. Quen battled back with a Dropkick to Page and Omega. Marq hit Kenny with a couple chops and tagged in Isiah Kassidy.
Isiah planted Omega with a DDT as Hangman brought Marq out of the ring. Hangman Powerbombed Quen onto the crowd outside the ring. Kassidy then hit Hangman with a Dropkick and followed it up with a Cannonball onto the crowd. The action returned to the ring and the champs took control once again.
Hangman connected with a German Suplex but was then knocked out of the ring. Private Party planted Kenny with a double Spanish Fly for a near fall. Omega hit Kassidy with a chop but Isiah shrugged it off and connected with a Backbreaker for a two count. Hangman tagged in and Powerbombed Quen on top of Kassidy in the middle of the ring. Page and Omega then hit Kassidy with the Last Call for the pinfall victory. Hangman Adam Page and Kenny Omega are still AEW Tag Team Champions.
Joey Janela battled Lance Archer tonight at Fyter Fest.
Match Recap: Archer launched Janela into the barricade and rolled him back into the ring. Janela caught him with a forearm to the face and followed it up with a Dropkick through the ropes. Joey climbed to the top rope and leveled Archer with a Crossbody outside the ring.
Janela brought out a table from under the ring and set it up. Joey hit a couple punches to the back of Archer’s head before grabbing a steel chair from under the ring. Joey made his way to the top rope but the referee ripped the chair away from him.
Lance took advantage of the distraction and slammed Joey to the canvas. Archer sent Joey flying into the ropes with a massive shoulder tackle. Archer beat Janela down for the next few minutes before Dynamite went to a commercial break. When Dynamite returned, Joey battled back with a couple of Clotheslines but couldn’t knock Archer down.
Joey countered Archer’s finisher with an elbow to the face and followed it up with a knee strike. Jake Roberts hopped on the apron and Joey hit Archer with a Senton. Sonny Kiss hit Archer with a 450 Splash and Joey went for the cover but Lance kicked out at two. Archer hit the Blackout on Janela through the table outside the ring. Lance bashed Joey’s head off the table several times and covered him for the victory.
Lucha Bros, Butcher, Blade Defeated Young Bucks & FTR
FTR and Young Bucks teamed up to face Lucha Bros, Butcher and Blade tonight at Fyter Fest.
Match Recap: Pentagon hit Dax Harwood with a chop to the chest and Dax got pissed off. Dax leveled Pentagon with a Clothesline and followed it up with some stomps. Pentagon battled back with another chop to the chest that echoed throughout Daily’s Place. Fenix tagged in and hit a springboard kick to the back of Dax’s head for a one count.
Cash tagged in and connected with a Slam on Fenix for a near fall. Matt Jackson and Blade then tagged in. Nick tagged himself in and planted Blade with Backbreaker. Young Bucks hit Butcher and Blade with a couple Dropkicks. Blade planted Nick with a Powerbomb for a two count. Fenix tagged in and Nick hit him win an awesome Hurricanrana off the top rope as AEW went to a commercial break.
Back from the break, Blade had Cash Wheeler in a Headlock in the middle of the ring. Wheeler broke free and planted Blade with a Back Body Drop. Matt Jackson tagged in and slammed Fenix to the canvas. Matt climbed to the top rope and hit Butcher and Blade with a Crossbody outside the ring. Matt went back to the top rope and hit Fenix with an Elbow Drop for a two count.
Dax tagged in and planted Blade with a DDT. Dax and Matt hit Butcher with a couple Superkicks and turned around into a Dropkick from Fenix. Wheeler and Nick Jackson hit Fenix with Goodnight Express and Matt and Harwood hit Blade with a Piledriver. Young Bucks and FTR worked together and hit a Superplex, Splash, and a Senton but Fenix broke up the cover at the last moment.
Pentagon hit Matt hit a chop to the chest as Rey ran across the ropes to boot Nick in the face. Fenix then leaped off of Pentagon’s back and hit Nick with a Canadian Destroyer onto everyone outside the ring. Matt accidentally hit Dax with a Superkick and Lucha Bros took advantage and planted Matt with a Piledriver for the pinfall victory.
Dark Order faced SCU tonight on Fyter Fest. Brodie Lee approached Cabana as he was being evaluated backstage with a massive bruise on his side from being thrown into a barricade last week. Brodie told Cabana that these accidents won’t happen anymore with the Dark Order watching his back. Lee told Cabana to get ready for his match and Cabana said “you’ve got it Mr. Brodie”.
Match Recap: Daniels and Stu Grayson started off the match as members of Dark Order watched from the entrance ramp. Stu leveled Daniels with a Dropkick and went for the cover but Daniels kicked out at two. Daniels planted Grayson with a Backbreaker and tagged in Frankie.
Kazarian hit Stu with a Double Stomp and followed it up with a release German Suplex for a near fall. Brodie Lee planted Scorpio Sky and told Colt Cabana to cover him. Scorpio kicked out at two as Dynamite went to a break. When Dynamite returned, Mr. Brodie Lee tagged in and walked into a Dropkick from Frankie.
Frankie followed it up with a DDT and went for the cover but Brodie kicked out at one. Brodie battled back and hit Frankie with a Sidewalk Slam. Daniels knocked Brodie to the outside and hit him with a Suicide Dive. Back in the ring, Daniels connected with a Uranage and followed it up with a Moonsault onto Grayson but Cabana broke it up at two. Brodie Lee leveled Daniels with the Discus Lariat and demanded that Stu tagged Colt in. Cabana pinned Daniels to give Dark Order the victory.
Chris Jericho Defeated Orange Cassidy In A Great Match
Chris Jericho faced Orange Cassidy in the main event of Night 2 of Fyter Fest. Orange Cassidy told Best Friends to not come down to the ring with him and go backstage. Jericho came to the ring with Santana and Ortiz. Jericho had “Floyd” the baseball bat and Santana & Ortiz had gallons of orange juice.
Match Recap: Orange Cassidy dominated the action early and connected with a Crossbody off the top rope. Jericho locked in the Walls of Jericho but Cassidy fought through the pain and reached the bottom rope to break the hold. Ortiz hit Orange Cassidy with the madball while the referee was distracted. Jericho mocked Orange Cassidy and slapped him across the face.
Jericho planted Cassidy with a Backbreaker as the crowd booed. Cassidy rolled up Jericho for a two count and followed it up with an Arm Drag for another near fall. Orange Cassidy went for the Superman Punch but Jericho avoided it and sent him out of the ring. Jericho then hit a Dropkick through the ropes that sent Cassidy into the barricade as Dynamite went to a break.
When Dynamite returned, Jericho was still in control and had Cassidy in an Abdominal Stretch in the middle of the ring. Cassidy broke free but Jericho once again sent him flying into the barricade. Santana and Ortiz got in some cheap shots on Cassidy before the action returned to the ring.
Orange Cassidy fought back with a few forearms and a boot to the face. Cassidy put his hands in his pockets and delivered a Superkick for a near fall. Cassidy made his way to the top rope but Jericho caught him with a right hand. Chris went for a Superplex but Cassidy blocked it and sent Jericho to the canvas.
Cassidy connected with a Splash off the top rope and went for the cover but Jericho kicked out at two. Orange sent Jericho out of the ring and then flipped onto everyone. Cassidy rolled Jericho into the ring and planted him with a DDT for a near fall. Cassidy went for the Superman Punch but Jericho caught him. Chris locked in the Walls of Jericho in the middle of the ring but Cassidy countered into a roll-up for a two count. Orange followed it up with a massive right hand but Santana threw orange juice in Cassidy’s face. Best Friends rushed down the ramp and battled with Santana and Ortiz through the crowd.
Jericho hit Cassidy with the bat while referee Aubrey Edwards was distracted. Jericho followed it up with the Codebreaker and went for the cover but Cassidy kicked out at two. Jericho went for the Lionsault but Cassidy got out of the way. Cassidy hit Jericho with a Michinoku Driver for a near fall. Cassidy hit the Stundog Millionaire and followed it up with a swinging DDT for another near fall. Cassidy went for the Superman Punch but Jericho countered with the Judas Effect for the pinfall victory.
Opinion: Jericho versus Cassidy was a very fun match to close out another solid edition of Dynamite. This was one of those matches that I really wish there was a crowd there because they would have popped after Cassidy kicked out of the Codebreaker. Overall, both weeks of Fyter Fest were entertaining and I’m looking forward to the AEW Championship match next week at Fight for the Fallen.
Isaiah “Swerve” Scott vs. Johnny Gargano was a late addition to this card as WWE had announced it on Tuesday. In fact, WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels noted in a post on Twitter following the announcement that it could end up as the show-stealer.
While it was very good with both guys being able to have a spotlight on the show, it wasn’t the best match on the show as that honor goes to Adam Cole vs. Keith Lee.
Scott continues to be a prospect who has star power written all over him. While yes, putting him in the ring with the type of star that Gargano is, he does get a rub, which is great. The only problem is the fact that he doesn’t win big matches.
From a booking standpoint, WWE can only do that with certain stars for so long. Unless WWE is making a storyline of this, which is something that they did with Bayley while she was a babyface, it hurts Scott in the long run instead of helping him as his stock with fans drop.
Mia Yim vs. Candice LeRae in a street fight is in the books after taking place. If you’ve seen one street fight in WWE then you’ve basically seen all of them. That’s unfortunate but that’s the way that these types of matches in WWE are booked.
Don’t mistake that statement as necessarily a bad thing as both girls worked hard in the contest to put forward the best performance possible.
The finish saw LeRae hit a neck breaker off the top of a table set up in the corner onto a pile of steel chairs.
Both girls have been built up as title contenders in the women’s division, which currently sees Io Shirai as the top star as champion. While Yim has had recent title opportunities, LeRae, on the other hand, is still out in the cold in that regard.
LeRae and Johnny Gargano have been accorded a ton of television time as of late so one would think that she would be getting a title match against Io sooner rather than later.
Santos Escobar, Raul Mendoza, Joaquin Wilde vs. Drake Maverick and Breezango in a six-man tag team match was booked.
While yes, it was part of a bigger story being told here, this was also just to fill time while continuing the ongoing story between Escobar and Maverick.
The match saw the heels go over for the win. Clearly, Breezango is just being used as comedy players who can do jobs to get younger talent over. It works nicely for both sides, but by pairing them with Maverick at a time where he is in such a serious storyline could be questioned by fans.
It will be interesting to see when Maverick gets his chance to not only get revenge but also challenge for the Cruiserweight Title will be interesting.
WWE does have a TakeOver special coming up in August that they could save it for, but this seems more like a television feud than a big storyline that’s worthy of a spot on the card of a TakeOver event.
WWE booked Keith Lee vs. Adam Cole in a Winner Takes All match for the NXT Championship & North American Championship. This served as the main event and rightfully so as it was the biggest match announced on the card.
WWE gave them plenty of time to tell the story that they had set out to tell. The back and forth contest came down to when Lee hit him with his finisher.
The finish of this contest might have caught some fans off guard although the apparent match result was leaked by a fellow NXT star just last week in a really bad mistake.
Up until this point, WWE had been building up Karrion Kross to be the next challenge for the title. In fact, he had already sent a warning to Cole about his intentions.
Whether this title change causes a delay in that happening remains to be seen. Either way, we’re likely getting another match between Lee and Cole, but this was a nice way to cap off the night.
?Oooooooo, bask in his glooOOOoory! Oooooooo, bask in his glooOOOoory! ?
Keith Lee has dethroned Adam Cole as the top champion in the WWE NXT banner.
WWE booked a Winner Takes All Match between Cole and Lee on this Wednesday’s episode of NXT, which is the second week of The Great American Bash. The stipulation heading into this contest on the USA Network was Cole’s NXT Title and Lee’s NXT North American Title would be on the line.
As seen on the show, which took place from Winter Park, Florida at Full Sail University, Lee ended up beating Cole to become the new NXT Champion. This ended Cole’s reign as champion that lasted over 400 days.
Cole originally won the title by defeating Johnny Gargano for it at NXT TakeOver: XXV on June 1, 2019 in Bridgeport, Connecticut.
This big win was spoiled by NXT star Saurav Gurjar, who is part of the tag team Indus Sher, as he decided it was a good idea to post a photo from the tapings last week of Lee standing tall with the title.
What are your thoughts on Keith Lee winning the WWE NXT Title from Adam Cole? Was this the right call by WWE officials? Sound off in the comment section.
Taz decided to bring back the FTW Championship and give it to a new generational star in Brian Cage.
It happened in a promo segment on Wednesday’s special edition of Dynamite on TNT during the Fyter Fest broadcast.
Taz cut a promo about how he wanted Cage to go into his next match with some momentum and as a champion. He added that the FTW Championship represents who is the “baddest S.O.B. in wrestling.”
Taz later wrote on Twitter, “Hopefully some of you guys learned a lesson tonight. Don’t “assume” everyone reads these silly ass spoilers because MOST fans don’t read them. And more importantly just because it’s not in the “spoilers” u read online doesn’t mean it didn’t happen! #FTW #AEWDynamite #FyterFest.”
BEWARE: #FTWChampionship is BACK and DOUBLE BEWARE because @MrGMSI_BCage holds the Title.
Taz used the FTW Championship in ECW in 1998 and 1999. Taz originally debuted the title and the only other wrestler to hold it was Sabu. Eventually, Taz unified the title with the ECW World Heavyweight Championship in March of 1999.
Jon Moxley was supposed to make his next title defense against Brian Cage as the AEW World Heavyweight Champion on this show. However, due to COVID-19 concerns, AEW moved it to next week at Fight for the Fallen.
EC3 did a recent Facebook Live video where he took questions from fans.
During the chat, some fans asked the former WWE and Impact Wrestling star about his next move in the pro wrestling business. At one point, a fan stated that he better be the mystery man in the main event of Impact Wrestling’s Slammiversary pay-per-view event or the person would riot.
EC3 responded, “There have been enough riots in the world, do we really need to riot over a wrestling show, I don’t know, perhaps. July 18th is a great day for a fight. I will fight July 18th.”
The next person stated that they’re looking forward to Slammiversary and EC3 said, “It’s probably gonna be a great show.”
Finally, a fan asked when he will decide where he’s going. EC3 stated, “I’m going to go wherever my heart takes me, wherever a fight arises that I need to fight them.”
Of course, this comes at a time where the promotion has been teasing the return of EC3 to Impact as his entrance music was played after Moose successfully defended his TNA World Heavyweight Championship against Hernandez on a recent episode of Impact.
Impact holds the Slammiversary event on July 18th, which comes just a few days after July 15th. This date is when EC3’s non-compete clause with WWE expires and he’s free to sign with any promotion he wants.
Impact Wrestling has released a few commercials teasing that there would be surprise appearances and the return of a former World Champion at Slammiversary. There’s no word yet on whether EC3 will appear at the event.
Matt Riddle has released a video denying allegations against him as part of the #SpeakingOut movement. The Smackdown Superstar admits he had an affair with his accuser but is denying all allegations of sexual misconduct.
“I’m going to make this quick. I have never in my entire life sexually assaulted a man, woman, or anybody,” Riddle begins the video.
He then addressed his accuser directly.
“Candy Cartwright, I never sexually assaulted you. The story about that van trip and the driver being asleep and me forcing you to do stuff and hop on whatever is a complete lie. It’s a fabricated story because you’re still mad. You know why you’re mad? Because yes, you’re right, we had an affair, you have plenty of evidence of that. You know what? I never denied it because it happened. Do I want to talk about it? Do I really want to share about it? No, it’s embarrassing because I feel like real piece of crap cheating on my wife and doing that and now having to talk about it publicly but I have to.”
Riddle continued to talk about how he began to feel depressed with all the lying and cheating on his partner.
“It’s not something cool, I didn’t want to brag about it. I tried to end it, i told my wife about you and us. I blocked you, I blocked your social media. You then started using messaging apps, you kept coming.”
Riddle then continued to talk about all the ways the person continued to message him. He said she has been showing up to hotels and harassing his friends as well.
“At the end of the day, I’m not perfect. We did have an affair and I’m not happy about that. But, I never sexually abused anybody, I never sexually assaulted anybody. And when I wanted to get out of this relationship, out of this situation, she said no and kept pursuing me and harassing me and stocking me. And when she didn’t get her way, she used the #SpeakingOut movement to try and ruin my career. Completely unacceptable.”
THIS IS US: we are the Riddles. Are we perfect…NO, but we are a FORCE that will always stick together and be strong. Words of recommendation…don’t try to mess with us. Do we expect everyone to like us, no, & if you don’t that’s okay, but don’t get in our way. @SuperKingofBrospic.twitter.com/HDyVL74IC9
NXT presents the second night of the Great American Bash tonight. Last week’s episode garnered more total viewers than AEW’s first night of Fyter Fest, though they came up short in the 18-49 demo that advertisers value so much. Triple H spoke to SI.com recently about the healthy competition between the two brands.
He was asked if counter-programming is part of healthy competition.
“It absolutely is part of healthy of competition. Anyone that thinks it isn’t, to a degree, is being naive to the situation,” Triple H said. “You saw that back in the day when Clash of Champions was counter-programming [to WWE’s WrestleMania IV in 1988]. At the same point, it can’t drive your booking decisions.”
Triple H was also asked about how counter-booking impacts NXT’s creative. According to Triple H, however, he focusses more on what is right for NXT as opposed to countering AEW.
“Almost all of these storylines were headed where they are now. There was a gap, timing-wise, between In Your House and what will become the SummerSlam TakeOver, and you need a halfway point and a build. This is that halfway point. So it doesn’t change our decision-making process. I don’t counter-book, I book what’s right for NXT.”
Triple H also spoke about last week’s main event between Io Shirai and Sasha Banks, Keith Lee, and what fans can expect tonight. The full interview can be found here.
Viewership data is in for Monday’s WWE RAW and Friday’s SmackDown. Here is the breakdown of the live and same-night DVR viewership, courtesy of ShowbuzzDaily:
RAW Viewership
Monday’s edition of WWE RAW averaged 1.687 million viewers, which is down from the 1.735 million viewers last week.
SmackDown averaged 1.777 million viewers on FOX in Orlando, Florida at the WWE Performance Center. This is down from the 2.174 million viewers that the show did for the previous week’s episode of SmackDown.
The show averaged 1.777 million viewers in the fast nationals, which was down from the 2.174 million viewers a week ago. This number measured the top metered markets.
The first hour drew 1.797 million viewers while the second hour did 1.756 million viewers. For comparison, the first show of last week’s show did 2.271 million viewers while the second hour did 2.076 million viewers.
SmackDown pulled in a 0.50 rating in the 18-49 demos, the same from the 0.50 rating as last week’s show.
2K has released a trailer for the upcoming “WWE 2K Battlegrounds” game. It is currently scheduled to be released on September 18th, 2020. The game features WWE Superstars in over-the-top battle scenarios.
“We’re thrilled to introduce you to WWE 2K Battlegrounds, a completely new WWE gaming experience that will feature arcade-style action and over-the-top Superstar designs, environments and moves,” a 2K press release for the game from April reads. “We’re focusing on social pick-up-and-play fun, but with plenty of depth for those who want to get way into it.”
2K announced earlier this year that there will be no WWE2K21. The last version of the game was riddled with problems and received poor reviews. In response to the criticism, 2K announced the game would take an extended absence before a new version is produced.
Following the game’s release, #FixWWE2k20 began to trend online. The game’s producers then released the following statement:
“We are listening closely to the feedback that’s been shared regarding WWE 2K20 and are aware of the concerns some players are reporting. We’re working hard to investigate these concerns and address them as necessary. We expect to have an initial patch ready in the next two weeks, with others to follow. Stay tuned to WWEGames social media channels for more information.”
2K would later commit to keeping the servers online for WWE 2K19 in response to the poor feedback to WWE 2K20.
Impact Wrestling this week continued its build to Slammiversary on July 18th, 2020. The show again teased that Impact’s roster will receive a fresh influx of talent at the PPV.
Impact Results 7/7:
Kylie Rae & Susie defeated Taya Valkyrie & Rosemary
The Deaners defeated Team XXL, TJP & Fallah Bah, & Reno Scum
Jordynne Grace defeated Kimber Lee
Willie Mack defeated Swinger-cide (Johnny Swinger as Suicide)
Sami Callihan defeated Josh Alexander
Here are 8 takeaways from Impact 7/7:
Return Of Former World Champions Teased
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K17SZJnQcEA
The most important segment on any episode of Impact Wrestling in recent weeks has occurred just before the show goes off the air. The return of Aces and Eights, Eric Young, and more have been hinted at during these post-credit segments.
This week, we saw an updated version of the Slammiversary promo that has been airing in recent weeks. During this update, the news anchor said that not only will a former World Champion be returning at Slammiverary but that person “Won’t be alone.”
Images flashed during this segment included clips of Bully Ray, James Storm, a Bulgarian flag, a Japanese flag, EC3, Chris Sabin, Eric Young, and Kurt Angle.
After the news anchor said that the returning world champion won’t be alone, several clips of other wrestlers were shown. These included Hurricane Helms, Amazing Red, Gail Kim, Luke Gallows, the Beautiful People, Lio Rush, Karl Anderson, Mike Bennett and Maria Kannellis and more.
The segment concluded with 3 hands grabbing 3 drinks. So, a lot of things being teased, in other words.
The World’s Most Dangerous Tag Team Headed To Slammiversary
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oHr_BozGhw
Sami Callihan defeated Josh Alexander
This week’s main event previewed the tag title match at Slammiversary. Former enemies turned partners, Sami Callihan and Ken Shamrock, will challenge the North at Slammiversary. Callihan picked up the win this week with a piledriver after Shamrock came out to fend off the interference from Ethan Page on the outside.
Shamrock and Callihan appear to be functioning okay so far but what will happen at Slammiversary?
Last week on Impact Wrestling, Tommy Dreamer cut a scathing promo on Moose. Dreamer called Moose a waste of talent. This week, Dreamer issued an apology of sorts as was requested by Moose.
Dreamer read a prepared statement courtesy of his attorney, “Tricky Dicky Heyman.” The apology was somewhat insincere and also seemed to imply that Moose thinks the Earth is flat. Moose came out to confront Tommy and also stated that there is no proof that the Earth is round. Dreamer then informed Moose that the imaginary TNA Championship committee has made him the #1 Contender for the title Moose is in possession of. The match will be contested under “Old School” rules.
Taya Valkyrie Taps Out To Kylie Rae
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DEwjTXdTrI
Kylie Rae & Susie defeated Taya Valkyrie & Rosemary
Kylie Rae is headed to the #1 Contenders Gauntlet match at Slammiversary with a little moment. She made the Taya Valkyrie tap out with the “Smile to the Finish” in this week’s opener. The finish of the match came shortly after Su Yung and Kylie Rae sent Rosemary spilling to the outside. John E Bravo, who has a budding romance with the Demon’s Assasin, then turned his attention away from the match and onto Rosemary. Taya was then left alone in the ring and got locked in Kylie’s “Smile To The Finish” STF finisher and tapped.
Knockouts Champion Jordynne Grace Impresses In Win Over Kimber Lee
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJtYl-6A5Iw
Jordynne Grace defeated Kimber Lee
Kimber Lee had a chance here to earn a victory over the champion just 12 days out from the #1 Contenders gauntlet match at Slammiversary. Grace was looking to build momentum as she gears up to defend her title against Deonna Purrazzo at the PPV.
After hitting a Swanton and only getting a 2-count, Lee grew frustrated. She attempted to hit Grace with a pair brass knuckles but Grace countered, hit the Grace Driver, and got the win.
After the match, Deonna Purrazzo appeared on the big screen. Purrazzo is all about strategy, however, and didn’t go to the ring to confront Grace. Rather, Purrazzo is waiting until Slammiversary. Purrazzo also hinted that she is not the only one that sees Impact is ripe for the picking.
Johnny Swinger Performs as Suicide, It Doesn’t Go Well
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxzGKkMDVmg
Willie Mack defeated Swinger-cide (Johnny Swinger as Suicide)
Johnny Swinger opted to put on the Suicide costume this week. He failed to be able to perform many of the moves the masked wrestlers is usually known for. Mack picked up a somewhat easy victory with a Stunner. Mack will defend his X-Division title against Swinger’s run-in buddy Chris Bey at Slammiversary.
Madison Rayne Returning To The Ring At Slammiversary
.@MadisonRayne welcomes one of the most iconic Knockouts of all-time to Locker Room Talk….HERSELF!
Madison Ryane interviewed herself this week on Locker Room talk. She announced that she’ll be in the #1 Contenders gauntlet match at Slammiversary. Kiera Hogan and Tasha Steelz came out and were making fun of Rayne for interviewing herself which then brought out Havok and Nevaeh. The two teams have been building a rivalry in recent weeks and began brawling to end the segment.
The Deaners Win 4-Way Tag Match As Two Teams Leave Ring Area
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QrJiLSkfYEM
The Deaners defeated Team XXL, TJP & Fallah Bah, & Reno Scum
Cody Deaner and Cousin Jake, The Deaners, managed to pick up a victory this week when Cousin Jake pinned Larry D of Team XXXL. Their win was aided by the fact that Reno Scum and TJP & Fallah Bah brawled to the backstage area in the middle of the match. This left just the Deaners and Team XXXL in the ring.
Cameras followed Reno Scum and Fallah Bah & TJP as they brawled backstage. Reno Scum was in their element in the back and took control of the brawl. The segment closed with TJP & Fallah Bah having been taken out and Reno Scum standing tall.
Brian Pillman Jr. made his AEW Dark debut during last night’s episode of the promotion’s YouTube show. The son of a Four Horseman alum faced off against Shawn Spears, who is managed by legendary Horseman Tully Blanchard.
In a recent interview with WrestleTalk’s Louis Dangoor, Pillman Jr. talked about how he was able to take this opportunity to appear on AEW despite being contractually signed to MLW.
Pillman Jr. explained how MLW became “very apprehensive” about running shows during the coronavirus pandemic. He indicated how Impact Wrestling, AEW and WWE were all running shows in front of no fans during that time.
Knowing this was happening, he confessed it was “hard for me to still and wait for them to bring me an opportunity.”
Instead, Pillman Jr. “went out and chased the opportunities that were available to me.” He noted how his contract allowed him to accept the work. This created a “no-brainer” opportunity he wanted to pursue. As long as there was no conflict, Pillman Jr.’s contract reportedly allowed him to take other work with different promotions.
Brian Pillman Jr. admitted he isn’t sure what MLW’s future plans will be given current coronavirus concerns. Pillman Jr. shared how that kind of uncertainty made it an easier choice to look for other promotions to work for.
