Titus Worldwide continues to expand. The multi-sport faction has inducted numerous celebrities and athletes in the past and continued to do so last night.
Monday Night Raw last night was held near the spring training facility of the San Francisco Giants. Some of the players were in attendance for the show and went backstage after the event.
Despite Curt Hawkins attempting to recruit them into his “Hawkins Hall of Heroes”, they opted to join Titus Worldwide instead.
Titus Worldwide
Things are going OK for Titus Worldwide as of late. Not only do they now have the SF Giants in their ranks, but Apollo and Titus will be facing the Bar on Sunday for the Raw tag-team championships.
Titus O’Neil is a former WWE tag-team champion along with Darren Young but Apollo has yet to win a title since signing with WWE in 2014.
After Smackdown tonight, both the Mixed Match Challenge and Cruiserweight tournaments will continue. Tonight’s episodes will be held from the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix Arizona.
Mixed Match Challenge Match
Tonight is the final first-round match in the tournament. The winners will move on to face Rusev and Lana in the second round. Eliminated teams will have a chance to be voted back into the tournament during the semifinals, however.
Bobby Roode & Charlotte Flair vs. Apollo & Nia Jax
205 Live Tournament
The cruiserweight championship tournament will also conclude its 1st round tonight.
Ring of Honor has announced the first match as well as the main event for their next pay-per-view event.
The Baltimore based promotion revealed on Tuesday morning (February 20, 2018) that Dalton Castle will defend the ROH World Title against former world champion Jay Lethal at their 16 Anniversary PPV.
ROH will hold their 16 Anniversary show on Friday, March 9, 2018, in Las Vegas, Nevada Sam’s Town Hotel and Gambling Hall. The event will air on traditional PPV outlets and the FITE TV app.
Ring of Honor has announced the first match for their Manhattan Mayhem VII event.
Former ROH World Champion Cody will take on Flip Gordon. The promotion has revealed that the fans will choose the stipulation of the match. Their choices are the following:
* Lumberjack Match
* 2 Out of 3 Falls Match
* If Gordon beats Cody, he is booked for the upcoming “All In” event.
Manhattan Mayhem VII event is slated to take place on Saturday, March 3, 2018, in New York, New York at the Manhattan Center’s Hammerstein Ballroom.
Tonight’s episode of Smackdown Live! Will emanate from the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix Arizona. The same venue hosted Raw last night.
Only 2 matches for the show have been announced thus far, however many of the segments should build to potential matches at Fastlane. The last Smackdown-specific PPV (of this brand-split era) will take place March 11th, 2018 from Columbus, OH.
Smackdown Live! Matches and Segments
New Day vs. Chad Gable and Shelton Benjamin
Due to Gable and Benjamin again having a beef with the referee’s decision from last week, Gable and Benjamin will get another crack at New Day.
Gable explained his beef with the refs call last week which cost them a match against the same team they will face tonight.
A: A serious tag team making a legal and legitimate tag.
B: The referee playing ha-ha with a guy who wasn’t even in the match.
C: Big E, out of sight, but completely wrecked from my suplex.
I’m sick of getting screwed over and over. Something must be done.
Charlotte Flair, Naomi, & Becky Lynch vs. the Riott Squad
Flair has defeated Liv Morgan and Sarah Morgan in successive weeks on Smackdown. This week the Riott Squad challenged her to find 2 partners to take part in a 6-person tag.
Flair picked Becky and Naomi to team with her.
We still don’t have a championship challenger for Flair’s title at Fastlane. Perhaps something will happen tonight to change that.
AJ Styles Reacts to the 5-Way Match at Fastlane
Last week two more challengers were added to the championship match at the upcoming pay-per-view. Tonight WWE is advertising that the WWE champion will have something to say about this.
Zayn, Owens, Ziggler, and Corbin will probably also have something to say.
Bobby Roode’s US Championship Segment
Last week, Roode appeared to express his desire to face Randy Orton face-to-face but Jinder Mahal interrupted and interjected himself into the title situation. Orton had given Roode an RKO (seemingly from out of nowhere) the previous week.
Roode does not yet have a challenger for the Fastlane pay-per-view. WWE is advertising he could have something to say to his potential challengers tonight
The Bludgeon Brothers Targetting the Usos
Last week, the Bludgeon Brothers Took their hammers to a television monitor which was playing a promo by the tag team champions, the Usos. This week, Harper and Rowen might be looking to do the same thing, only not to a television screen.
This week’s RAW featured an incredible near 2 hour long Gauntlet match pitting the seven men who will be going into the Elimination Chamber this Sunday. Arguably the standout performer from the match was ‘The Architect’ Seth Rollins, who started the bout and defeated both Roman Reigns and John Cena before finally falling to Elias. The seven man gauntlet was eventually won by Braun Strowman.
Interestingly the ‘iron man’ performance from Rollins has broken a record for the longest time wrestled in a single televised WWE match in WWE history. The record was previously held by Rey Mysterio and his performance in the 2006 Royal Rumble where he entered the ring second and eliminated Triple H to win the bout in 1 hour, 2 minutes and 45 seconds.
Many fans were quick to praise the former WWE World Heavyweight Champion on an incredible performance and Seth himself took to Twitter to share his delight following the match:
It’s nights like these when I remember why I fell in love with professional wrestling. Thank you to the men I shared the ring with this evening. It was truly special. I’ve drawn a line in the sand… #MONDAYNIGHTROLLINS#WrestleMania
Do you think that Rollins has a chance at winning the Elimination Chamber this Sunday and going on to face Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania? Or will it still likely be Roman Reigns who conquers ‘The Beast’ at the Show of Shows? Let us know in the comments.
Colt Cabana, is the newest challenger announced for NWA Heavyweight Champion, Nick Aldis’ world tour. Cabana is a former 2x NWA World Heavyweight Champion and will challenge the champion in April from Shanghai, China.
Cabana previously held the title in 2011 and 2012, having first won the title from Adam Pearce on Championship Wrestling from Hollywood. After losing the title to the Sheik, Cabana once again defeated Adam Pearce for the belt on April 8th, 2012. Pearce had won a four-way match to win the vacated title the previous summer.
Cabana reacted to the news he will be receiving an NWA title shot in the video below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RgFI3ph37Qk
Colt Cabana vs. Nick Aldis in China
Provided Nick Aldis does not lose his NWA championship at any point along his world tour, Cabana will face Cabana in Shanghai, China. The match is scheduled for April 15th, 2018, though it is not yet clear if the match will air live.
James Ellsworth has had numerous championship opportunities in recent years. He wrestled AJ Styles on Smackdown for the WWE Championship and he most recently challenged current NWA World Heavyweight Champion, Nick Aldis, unsuccessfully as well.
Ellsworth has now created his own championship belt, however. One he plans on defending all across the independent scene.
Ellsworth spent his final few months in WWE wrestling superstars from the Smackdown women’s division. It only makes sense he would take this gimmick to the independent scene.
He is not the first world inter-gender wrestling champion, however. That title belongs to Andy Kaufman who declared himself the inter-gender champion in the late 1970s.
Apollo Crews’ name has now officially been changed to just Apollo. WWE changed the Superstar’s bio page yesterday to remove all mention to his previous last name.
His Twitter tagline has been changed to remove mention of the Crews last name, as well.
Actor, Terry Crews, commented on the move.
I like and respect Apollo and wish him well— but The @WWE stole my name in the first place. https://t.co/PLqsPBhs0o
PROGRESS Wrestling co-owner Glen Joseph recently sat down with Welsh star Mark Andrews to discuss a variety of topics, including his recent ongoing feud with fellow PROGRESS star Eddie Dennis.
Andrews is already a member of the WWE United Kingdom roster and he recently made his way onto 205 Live, joining the Cruiserweight Championship Tournament and defeating Akira Tozawa in somewhat of an upset. Whether this means that ‘Mandrews’ will be a full time member of the WWE roster going forward remains to be seen. Andrews’ bitter PROGRESS rivalry with Eddie Dennis looked to be gaining momentum however an injury to Dennis has left his unable to compete over the past few months. There is a very good chance that we will see Andrews vs Dennis at some point down the line, even potentially as part of the upcoming PROGRESS event in Wembley Arena this September.
VIDEO: @Glen_Joseph sat down for a Face to Face chat with former PROGRESS Champion @MandrewsJunior about loads of things… but it got really interesting when a certain subject came up. WATCH: https://t.co/s7R5oR5Uxi
PROGRESS has announced the latest participant in the upcoming Super Strong Style 16 tournament. Lucha Underground star Angelico will be making his debut in the 2018 iteration of the tournament. Angelico will be joining the already announced WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne and Keith Lee on May 5th-7th.
The company has also revealed the latest name to be added to the WrestleMania weekend show in New Orleans…PROGRESS Women’s title hopeful Jinny will be making her way over to the United States and she joins these names already confirmed:
Travis Banks
Will Ospreay
Toni Storm
Mark Haskins
Jimmy Havoc
‘Flash’ Morgan Webster
WALTER
Grizzled Young Veterans (Zack Gibson and James Drake)
Welcome to a new weekly post here on SEScoops. We’ve been covering the booming scene in the United Kingdom for the past year and now we’re looking to extend that coverage, starting with our weekly look at some of the best wrestling to emerge from the British Isles.
Our first featured match comes from the relatively new promotion RIPTIDE Wrestling and it features two of the finest independent wrestlers on the scene currently; Travis Banks and ‘Speedball’ Mike Bailey. The match took place as part of RIPTIDE’s ‘Deep Six’ event back on February 2nd and the company has now released the footage for free on YouTube.
One of the most striking elements of the bout is the presentation, RIPTIDE have managed to craft a wholly unique style and the production quality is absolutely sublime. Check out the match below and let know your thoughts in the comments.
The February 19th episode of WWE RAW aired live from the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, AZ. It was the final episode of RAW before the Elimination Chamber PPV this Sunday. Here are 8 takeaways from this week’s episode of WWE RAW:
Seth Rollins Defeated Roman Reigns To Advance In The Gauntlet Match
Photo Credit:WWE.com
WWE RAW kicked off with Roman Reigns coming down to the ring with his typical mixed reaction from the crowd. Reigns was interviewed before the Gauntlet match and was asked if he had any concern competing in the match just six days before the Elimination Chamber. Reigns stated that he wasn’t concerned about tonight, but admitted he was concerned about the Elimination Chamber match because he has never been in one before.
Reigns listed the competitors in the match and claimed that none of them could defeat Brock Lesnar besides him. Roman bragged about almost defeating Lesnar at WrestleMania but Seth Rollins prevented it by cashing in his Money in the Bank contract.Rollins’ music hit and he made his way to the ring.
Rollins faced Reigns in the first bout in the Gauntlet match. Seth and Roman locked up to start off the match. Reigns wrestled Rollins to the canvas and applied a side Headlock. Rollins broke free for a moment but Roman brought him right back to the mat. Seth broke free again but Reigns leveled him with a shoulder tackle. Rollins responded with an Arm Drag and then a roll-up for two. Rollins went for a backslide pin but Roman kicked out. Reigns and Rollins had a stare down as RAW went to a commercial break.
When RAW returned, Reigns was back in control and had Rollins back in a Headlock as dueling “lets go Rollins!” and “Roman sucks!” chants echoed throughout the Talking Stick Resort Arena. Seth broke free but Roman hit an elbow to the face that knocked Rollins back down to the canvas.
Reigns launched Seth into the turnbuckle and followed it up with a Tilt-A-Whirl Slam for a two count. Rollins hit a Blockbuster off the second rope and followed it up with a Slingblade. Rollins connected with a flying Clothesline and hit another Clothesline that sent Reigns out of the ring. Seth went for a Suicide Dive but Reigns caught him with a right hand to the face. Seth draped over the middle rope which allowed Reigns to connect with the Drive By.
The action returned to the ring with the Big Dog in control. Reigns connected with a Clothesline and brought Rollins to the corner. Reigns clubbed Rollins across the chest eight times and then blasted him in the face with a right hand that knocked Seth to the mat. Reigns went for the Superman Punch but Rollins kicked him in the knee. Rollins hit a Buckle Bomb but Reigns leaped out of the corner and hit a Superman Punch and both Superstars fell to the canvas as RAW went to another break.
When RAW returned, Rollins was on the top rope and went for a Frog Spash but Reigns got out of the way and Seth crashed to the canvas. Roman and Seth got back to their feet and traded punches. Rollins sidestepped Reigns and sent him out of the ring. Rollins connected with the Suicide Dive this time and then ran back into the ring, leaped through the ropes and connected with a second Suicide Dive in a row.
Back in the ring, Rollins leaped off the top rope but Reigns was ready and hit a Superman Punch for a two count. Reigns geared up in the corner and went for the Spear but Rollins countered into a knee to the face. Rollins went for the Curb Stomp but Reigns countered into a roll-up. Rollins kicked out and rolled up Reigns for the pinfall victory.
This was a hell of a match to kick off this week’s RAW. Seth Rollins advanced in the Gauntlet Match, but it is hard to imagine he will go much further after such a grueling match with Roman Reigns.
Seth Rollins Defeated John Cena To Advance In The Gauntlet Match
Rollins faced John Cena in the second bout of the Gauntlet match. Rollins connected with a boot to the face right away and went for the cover but Cena kicked out at two as RAW went to a commercial break.
When RAW came back from the break, Cena had taken control and had Rollins trapped in a Headlock. Rollins escaped but walked right into a Clothesline from Cena. John applied another Headlock in the middle of the ring and held Rollins in it a for a minute. Rollins wiggled free but Cena threw him out of the ring. Back in the ring, Cena connected with three Belly to Belly Suplexes in a row for a two count as RAW went to a break.
Cena was still in control when RAW returned. Rollins was running on empty and Cena lifted him up on his shoulders. Rollins countered the Attitude Adjustment into a DDT for a two count. Rollins missed with a right hand and Cena lifted him up and the air and connected with a variation of a Stunner for a two count.
Cena connected with a right hand and dropped Rollins back to the mat. Seth slowly made his way back to his feet and hit another punch to the face. Seth got pissed off and started trading punches with John. Cena hit a shoulder tackle for a two count. Cena knocked Rollins off the ring apron and the referee began counting. Rollins got back into the ring at the count of 9 as RAW went to a commercial break.
When RAW returned, Seth connected with a Slingblade for a two count. Rollins hit a forearm and then connected with a Suplex. The action spilled outside the ring. Cena charged at Rollins but Seth leaped out of the way and Cena crashed into the steel steps. Back in the ring, Rollins locked in a Crossface in the middle of the ring.
Cena escaped but Rollins connected with an Enziguri and followed it up with a Frog Splash for a two count. Cena hit an Attitude Adjustment and went for the cover but Seth somehow kicked out at two. Rollins hit a Superplex off the second rope and rolled through for a Falcon Arrow for another two count.
Rollins went for the Curb Stomp but Cena countered into the STF in the middle of the ring. Rollins fought through the pain and grabbed the bottom rope to break the hold. Cena locked in the STF once again in the middle of the ring. Seth once again was able to get to the bottom rope to break the hold.
Cena and Rollins battled on the top rope. Cena lifted Seth onto his shoulders but Rollins battled free. Cena hit a Crossbody but Rollins rolled through and hit Cena with an Attitude Adjustment. That was not a typo, Rollins planted Cena with an Attitude Adjustment for a two count and the crowd went crazy.
Rollins went for the Phoenix Splash but Cena got out of the way and hit Rollins with an Attitude Adjustment. Cena went for another AA but Rollins escaped. Rollins then hit a Curb Stomp for the pinfall victory.
Seth Rollins has now defeated Roman Reigns and John Cena in the Gauntlet match. Both of the matches were great and Rollins has been in the match for over an hour now. The first hour of RAW tonight was freaking awesome.
Elias Finally Eliminated Seth Rollins In The Gauntlet Match
Seth Rollins faced Elias in the Gauntlet match next. Elias tried to go for a quick cover but Rollins kicked out as RAW went to a break. Elias locked in a Half Crab as John Cena was interviewed backstage by Renee Young. Cena praised Rollins for his effort tonight. Cena once again said that he needed to win the Elimination Chamber Sunday because he doesn’t have a road to WrestleMania.
Back in the ring, Rollins broke free and connected with a Superkick for a two count. Elias rolled out of the ring and Rollins leaped on top of him. Rollins grabbed his knee in pain and Elias brought him back to the ring. Elias connected with the Drift Away and Rollins was finally eliminated after an hour and five minutes.
The WWE Universe gave Rollins a big hand as he made his way up the entrance ramp.
Rollins had a great showing tonight on RAW and reminded everyone how great he is. Seth has been in the tag division for a bit on RAW, but I think it is time for him to get back in the main event picture. I wouldn’t mind seeing Rollins go after the Intercontinental Championship as well if he doesn’t win the Elimination Chamber match on Sunday.
Finn Balor Defeated Elias To Advance In The Gauntlet Match
Finn Balor
Elias and Finn Balor faced off in the Gauntlet match. Elias controlled the match early as Rollins was interviewed backstage. Seth noted that he defeated two of the best Superstars off all-time tonight but that doesn’t mean anything come the Elimination Chamber.
The one and only @IAmEliasWWE has just one question for everybody here tonight (while he inflicts punishment on @FinnBalor)…
Elias and Balor traded punches in the ring. Balor connected with a boot to the face and both Superstars fell to the canvas. Balor connected with a Clothesline and then sent Elias to the corner. Balor booted Elias in the face and knocked him out of the ring. Finn followed him out there and hit a Dropkick that knocked Elias into the barricade. Back in the ring, Elias planted Balor with a Powerbomb for a two count as RAW went to a break.
When RAW returned, Elias was still in control and had Balor in an Arm Bar. Finn escaped and connected with a Double Stomp to Elias’ midsection. Balor followed it up with a Dropkick in the corner and then hit the Coup de Grace for the Pinfall victory.
The Miztourage Helped The Miz Eliminate Finn Balor
Photo Credit: WWE.com
Balor faced The Miz in the next bout of the Gauntlet match. Bo Dallas and Curtis Axel started running down to the entrance ramp and Balor got distracted by them. The Miz then cowardly attacked Balor from behind and controlled the first few minutes of the match.
The Miz slammed Balor into the barricade outside the ring and then stomped on his arm as RAW went to a break. When RAW returned, Balor was back in control and connected with an elbow for a two count.
Finn hit a couple of chops to The Miz’s chest in the corner. Miz went for the Skull Crushing Finale but Balor countered into a roll-up for two. Balor flipped on Dallas and Axel outside of the ring and then booted Miz in the face. Balor hit a Dropkick to Miz in the corner and punched Axel off the ring apron. Bo Dallas distracted Balor on the turnbuckle and the Miz took advantage and crotched Balor on the top rope. The Miz then hit the Skull Crushing Finale for the pinfall victory.
The Miz once again weaseled his way to a victory. Unfortunately for The Miz, he know had to face Braun Strowman to determine the winner of the Gauntlet match.
Braun Strowman Won The Gauntlet Match
Photo Credit: WWE.com
Braun Strowman was the final entrant in the Gauntlet match. The Miz immediately tried to run away but Strowman caught him in the crowd. Braun launched The Miz over the barricade and back towards the ring as RAW went to a break.
When RAW returned, Strowman was in complete control and launched The Miz across the ring. Braun casually threw The Miz across the ring again and then posed for the crowd. Renee Young interviewed Finn Balor backstage. Balor was pissed off about The Miztourage being involved in the match tonight, but noted that The Miztourage will be locked out of the Elimination Chamber match. Balor vowed to win on Sunday and go on to face Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania.
The Miz fought back and was able to knock Strowman out of the ring. Braun shrugged it off and ran over Miz and knocked him to the floor. Back in the ring, The Miz hit the Skull Crushing Finale out of nowhere for a two count. Strowman kicked out with so much force that The Miz flew out of the ring and into the arms of Dallas & Axel. The Miz returned to the ring and was promptly planted with a Running Powerslam for the pinfall victory to win the Gauntlet match.
Strowman was interviewed after the match and vowed to win the Elimination Chamber match and defeat Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania. Strowman then charged back to the ring and attacked The Miztourage. Strowman planted Axel and Dallas with a Running Powerslam as The Miz escaped to the entrance ramp. The Miz ran backstage and Strowman chased after him. Strowman caught The Miz and threw him down the entrance ramp towards the ring. Strowman hit The Miz with a Running Powerslam and posed in the ring.
The Gauntlet match last two hours and was awesome. Rollins stole the show in the first hour with his performance and back to back victories over Reigns and Cena. I really enjoyed the backstage interviews throughout the match with the participants that were just eliminated. It was a great way to get everyone’s thoughts leading up to the Elimination Chamber PPV this Sunday. I thought WWE hit out of the park tonight with the Gauntlet match and I’m looking forward to this Sunday even more.
Renee Young interviewed Asuka about her match against Nia Jax this Sunday. Asuka stated that it was her destiny to win the title at WrestleMania. Nia Jax attacked Asuka from behind but Asuka was ready for it.
Asuka connected with a couple of kicks but Nia planted her with a massive Samoan Drop. Nia hit three Leg Drops in a row and then posed over Asuka. Nia Jax will face Asuka this Sunday at Elimination Chamber. If Nia Jax wins, she will be added to the title match at WrestleMania.
Asuka struggled with her promo tonight and it was tough to watch. The crowd certainly didn’t help with the “what?!” chants while she was trying to talk. However, I’m never going to complain about Asuka cutting a promo on WWE television. It may be rough at times but it is what it is. I’d say the same for Nakamura or any other Superstar that English is not their first language.
Sasha Banks Led Her Team To Victory
Mickie James, Sasha Banks and Bayley faced Sonya Deville, Mandy Rose and RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss in the main event. Bayley was trapped in the ring to start off the match as Mandy Rose beat her down. Bayley battled back and slammed Mandy’s face into the top rope.
Alexa Bliss tagged herself in and continued to beatdown Bayley. Deville tagged in and applied a Chin Lock in the middle of the ring. Bayley escaped and tagged in Sasha Banks but the referee didn’t see the tag. Mandy tagged back in and knocked Sasha out of the ring.
Bayley then tagged in Mickie James and the referee saw it. Mickie Clotheslined Mandy to the mat and then booted Sonya off the ring apron. Mickie climbed to the top rope and leaped onto Mandy. Deville got back into the ring and Mickie greeted her with a Neckbreaker. Deville distracted Mickie again and Mandy connected with a knee to the face.
Mandy Rose applied the Abdominal Stretch in the middle of the ring. Mickie broke free but Rose hit a Gutwrench Suplex for a two count. Deville tagged back in and Mickie launched her across the ring. Deville blocked Mickie from tagging out and slammed her to the canvas for a two count.
Mandy tagged back in but was knocked to the mat alongside Deville with a double Neckbreaker. Bliss and Banks tagged in and Sasha booted Alexa in the face. Banks leaped off the ring apron and took out Deville with Double Knees. Back in the ring, Banks hit Double Knees to Bliss in the corner and connected with Double Knees off the second rope. Mandy Rose ran into the ring but Bayley took her out with a Suplex.
Bliss slammed Banks face-first into the second turnbuckle and then dragged her back to the middle of the ring. Sasha locked in the Bank Statement out of nowhere and Alexa Bliss tapped out. After the match, a brawl broke out and Rose and Deville attacked Bayley and Banks. Bliss looked on and nodded her head in the ring.
Rose and Deville then turned their attention towards her and Alexa backed into the corner. Mickie James sprinted into the ring and helped out Alexa. Mickie and Bliss planted Deville with a double DDT and knocked Rose out of the ring. RAW went off the air with Bliss and Mickie James walking up the entrance ramp together.
The Gauntlet match took up the first two hours of RAW and wore the crowd out. They barely made any noise during tonight’s main event even though it was a decent match. Tonight’s episode of RAW was a rare example of WWE doing a go-home show for a PPV the right way. The first ever women’s Elimination Chamber match is this Sunday and tonight highlighted the potential alliances that will form during that match. The men’s Elimination Chamber match was showcased tonight in a terrific Gauntlet match in which every Superstar performed in the ring and cut a promo.
The February 19th edition of WWE RAW airs live from the Talking Stick Resort Arena in Phoenix, AZ.
– Roman Reigns comes out to the ring first to kick off tonight’s episode of WWE RAW. Reigns steps into the ring with Renee Young for an interview about the upcoming Elimination Chamber. Reigns says he knows all about the Elimination Chambers, and he is the only one in this upcoming match who has a chance against WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar. Seth Rollins interrupts, and the first match of the night begins.
– Gauntlet Match: Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, John Cena, Elias, Braun Strowman, Finn Balor, The Miz: Rollins and Reigns start this one off, with some stalling off the opening bell. Reigns takes Rollins down with a headlock and tries to keep him grounded. Rollins starts fighting back, then they back off and face off in the middle of the ring as fans pop. Rollins starts taking control and goes for a flying springboard dropkick off the top, but Reigns hits a Superman punch out of nowhere and drops Rollins. After an exchange of pin attempts, Rollins rolls up Reigns in a small package and steals the three count. Reigns has been eliminated from the gauntlet. Reigns and Rollins slowly get to their feet and go for the handshake.
Cena’s music hits and he’s next. Cena hits the ring and Rollins immediately drops him and covers for a one count. Rollins works on keeping Cena grounded, but Cena finally fights back and drops him for a two count. Rollins tries to come back, but Cena drops him and hits a boot to the face. Cena throws Rollins outside, and Rollins comes back in at the referee’s 9 count. Cena immediately drops Rollins again and then hits three belly-to-belly suplexes for a two count. Cena goes for the Attitude Adjustment, but Rollins slides out and hits a DDT for a two count. They trade blows in the middle of the ring, then Cena hits a fireman’s carry into a stunner for a two count. Rollins fights his way up but Cena knocks him right back down and talks some trash as the ref cehcks on Rollins. Rollins gets in Cena’s face and they unload with strikes until Cena drops him with an elbow to the face. Cena throws Rollins outside again, and Rollins slides back in at the 9 count once again. They brawl out to ringside again, where Cena misses a shot and crashes into the ring steps by himself. Both men are down until the referee’s 9 count. Back in the ring, Rollins drops Cena and goes up top. Rollins hits the frogsplash off the top for a two count. They slowly fight up to their feet and Cena comes back with an AA. Cena pins but gets a very close 2 count. Cena can’t believe he didn’t get the pin. Cena goes up top, but Rollins runs up and catches him with a superplex. Rollins immediately follows up with a Falcon Arrow for a 2 count. Both men are down, and Cena locks in the STF. Rollins escapes, but then misses a kick and Cena locks the STF right back in. Rollins reaches the ropes to break it, then rolls outside. Rolls gets on the apron, and Cena carries him up to the top turnbuckle. Cena looks for a super AA, but Rollins elbows his way out. Cena knocks Rollins down and goes for a Cross Body, but Rollins rolls through and hits an AA of his own on Cena. Cena kicks out at 2. Rollins climbs up top for a Phoenix Splash, but Cena rolls out of the way. Cena follows up with an AA, then goes for a second AA, but Rollins escapes. Rollins hits a flying knee, then a curb stomp for the three count.
Elias is in next, and he immediately hits the ring and starts stomping on Rollins and looking for pin attempts. As Elias is beating on Rollins, we see an interview backstage with Cena, where he puts over how great Rollins is. Cena says Rollins wants to be the best on RAW, but Cena has more on his plate to balance, and he needs to win on Sunday if he wants to go to WrestleMania. Back in the ring, Elias is working over Rollins’ knee and keeping him grounded. Rollins tries to fight back, but he’s too exhausted from fighting Reigns and Cena for an hour, and Elias drops him for a three count. Rollins is eliminated.
Finn Balor is in next, and Elias immediately takes the fight to him when he steps in the ring. Renee Young is backstage with Rollins for an interview, where Rollins says beating Cena and Reigns tonight means nothing if he loses on Sunday. Back in the ring, Elias is working over Elias’ shoulder now after a failed Coup De Grace attempt. Balor tries to mount a comeback, but Elias stuns him with an elbow to the face. They trade strikes now and the fight spills outside. Balor dropkicks Elias into the corner, then takes him back in the ring for a Slingblade. They go back and forth, until they fight to ringside again and Elias shoves Balor into the ring post. Back in the ring, Elias looks to continue beating on Balor, but Balor drops him and successfully hits the Coup De Grace for the three count. Elias has been eliminated.
The Miz’ music hits next, but Dallas and Axel come down the ramp instead. While Balor is distracted looking at them, The Miz runs in and attacks Balor from behind. Miz beats down Balor now inside the ring and outside, and works over Balor’s bad shoulder. Dallas and Axel are watching from ringside. Elias does an interview in the back saying he’s got the biggest advantage on Sunday, and will go on to put on the performance of his life at WrestleMania later on. Back in the ring, The Miz hits a series of kicks on Balor, until Balor ducks one and fires back with chops and punches. Balor hits a dropkick and an inverted DDT for a two count. Balor works over Miz in the corner now with a series of strikes. Miz starts fighting back now, but misses a kick and Balor rolls him up. Balor misses a shot, and Miz goes for the Skull Crushing Finale but Balor escapes. Dallas hits a cheap shot from ringside on Balor while the ref isn’t looking. Balor ducks a clothesline from Miz, then hits a suicide dive onto Axel and Dallas at ringside for revenge on the Miztourage. Balor gets back on the apron and kicks Miz in the head and drops him. Dallas and Axel get up on the apron but Balor kicks them off. The distraction leads to Miz hitting a cheap shot on Balor, then the Skull Crushing Finale for the three count. Balor has been eliminated, and the ref didn’t DQ Miz for Axel and Balor’s interference.
Braun Strowman is out next. The Miz backs out of the ring and looks like he wants to escape, so Strowman chases him down. Strowman chases Miz into the crowd, then throws Miz over the barrier onto the ringside floor. Strowman takes Miz back into the ring now and has his way with him. We see an interview with Finn Balor backstage where he says he’s glad the Miztourage will be locked out at Elimination Chamber. The Miz starts fighting back against Strowman in the ring, and hits some kicks on Strowman. Strowman comes back with a dropkick of his own, then Strowman chases off Axel and Dallas. The Miz capitlizes on the distraction with a Skull Crushing Finale, but Strowman kicks out at 2 with authority. Strowman clotheslines Miz down, then hits the running powerslam for the win.
Winner: Braun Strowman
– Braun Strowman does an interview on the ramp where he says he doesn’t fear the unknown, the unknown fears him. Strowman says he’ll win on Sunday just like he won tonight, and then he’s coming for Brock Lesnar. Strowman says at WrestleMania, Lesnar is gonna get these hands. Strowman says he has some unfinished business he needs to tend to, and then starts walking towards the ring. Axel and Dallas pull The Miz out to ringside, but Strowman is able to grab Axel and Dallas. He hits running powerslams on them, then he notices The Miz at ringside. Strowman hops out of the ring and chases the Miz to the back. Strowman gets him behind the curtain, and throws Miz back on the stage. He throws Miz down the ramp, then throws him in the ring. Strowman hits the running powerslam on Miz, then poses for the crowd. Strowman is about to leave, but he’s not finished yet. Strowman hits another running powerslam on Miz, then raises his hands before leaving.
– Asuka is shown backstage walking towards the gorilla position.
– Michael Cole says it’s his honor to introduce the latest inductee announced for the Hall of Fame: J-e-double-F J-A-double-R-E-double-T. We see a video package showing Jeff Jarrett’s WWF career highlights, including some of his early country singer videos. It then shows us some clips of Jarrett as Intercontinental Champion in WWE, and a couple brief shots of him in WCW.
– Asuka comes down to the ring and does an in-ring interview where she says she’s going to fulfill her destiny: Winning at WrestleMania. Asuka says she didn’t look so strong in their last match when she was limping away from the ring. Nia runs in and attacks Asuka from behind and beats her down. Nia hits a leg drop on Asuka and talks trash to her before leaving.
– We see a highlight video promoting Ronda Rousey coming to WWE.
– The Bar vs. Titus O’Neil & Apollo Crews: This one is a non-title match. Dana Brooke is at ringide. Titus and Apollo get the upper hand over Cesaro early on with some good double-teaming. Titus taunts Sheamus on the apron, then Crews tags back in. Crews knocks Sheamus off the apron, but then Cesaro hits Crews from behind and knocks him outside too. Sheamus beats down Crews at ringside, then back in the ring double-teams him with Cesaro. Sheamus hits a knee to the face for a two count. Cesaro tags in now and continues to work over Crews. Sheamus comes back in and hits a cheap shot on Titus, but Crews starts fighting back. Cesaro tags back in, and Crews throws Sheamus outside. Cesaro charges at Crews, but Crews catches him and rolls him up for the three count.
Winners: Titus Worldwide
– Titus, Apollo an Dana celebrate their win after the match, as The Bar throws a fit.
– We see dueling pre-taped promoes from Bray Wyatt and Woken Matt Hardy. Wyatt says at Elimination Chamber, Matt Hardy will burn. Hardy says Wyatt will be deleted at Elimination Chamber.
– Sasha Banks, Bayley & Mickie James vs. Sonya Deville, Mandy Rose & Alexa Bliss: Paige is at ringside for this one. Bliss and Mickie start off, but Bliss quickly tags in Deville. They lock up and go at it, and Deville slams Mickie. Mickie comes back and drops her, then Sasha tags in for the double team. Deville fights back and starts working over Sasha’s arm. Sonya backs Sasha into the corner and beats on her, then tags in Rose. Sasha hits a slam on Rose and takes her into the corner. Bayley tags in, but Rose comes back and hits Bayley with a slam. Rose whips Bayley with her hair, then Bayley unloads with strikes. Rose rolls outside for a breather and consults with Sonya and Paige. Back in the ring, Mandy turns it around on Bayley and slams her down face-first. Mickie tags in now and goes at it with Mandy. Mandy hits a suplex for a 2 count, then Sonya tags in and continues the offense. Mickie comes back with a flying head scissors, and both men are down. Sonya stops Mickie from getting a tag, and drags her back to her team’s corner. Bliss appears to refuse to tag in. Mandy and Sonya now double team Mickie, but Mickie comes back with a double neckbreaker. Banks gets the hot tag, and Bliss tags in and they start going at it. Banks hits a big kick on Bliss, then hits a knee. Sasha hits a flying double knees from the apron onto Sonya and Mandy. Back in the ring, Banks continues beating on Bliss. Sasha pins, but Mandy breaks the pin. Bayley runs in and takes out Mandy with a suplex. Bliss rolls up Sasha, but Sasha escapes. Banks misses a shot in the corner, but is still able to come back and catch Bliss in the Banks Statement. Bliss taps out, and Banks wins for her team via submission.
Winners: Sasha Banks, Bayley and Mickie James
After the match, Rose and Deville immediately attack the babyfaces. Bliss watches and doesn’t take part in the attack. Rose and Deville now turn to Bliss and corner her. Mickie runs in and saves Bliss. Mickie starts beating on Sonya and Mandy, and then Mickie and Alexa team up to hit a double team DDT on Sonya. Bliss and Mickie head up the ramp together as Paige, Deville and Rose look on from the ring as RAW goes off the air.
The early betting odds for both the men’s and women’s Elimination Chamber matches have been released.
The men’s match will see the winner go onto challenge Brock Lesnar for the Universal Championship at Wrestlemania 34. Roman Reigns, who is soundly favored at -670, has been rumored all along to be facing Lesnar at the biggest event of the year for the sports entertainment company.
On the flip side, Alexa Bliss will defend the RAW Women’s Championship in the women’s chamber match and is favored at -295 to successfully retain. The Elimination Chamber pay-per-view event takes place on Sunday, February 25th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada and will air on the WWE Network and some traditional pay-per-view outlets. This will be an exclusive Raw brand event and the final Raw PPV before Wrestlemania 34. Here are the odds: Men’s Elimination Chamber Roman Reigns -670, Braun Strowman +200, Seth Rollins +600, Finn Balor +1500, John Cena +1500, Elias +2500, The Miz +3300 Women’s Elimination Chamber Alexa Bliss -295, Sasha Banks +150, Bayley +550, Sonya Deville +550, Mickie James +1700, Mandy Rose +3300
WWE are reportedly looking to hold an event at Melbourne’s Cricket Ground. The Australian stadium can hold over 100,000 people and according to Sportster stadium officials are looking to hold big events going forward, something that WWE would be eager to capitalise on.
The MGC is the 10th largest stadium in the world and it has hosted events such as the 1956 Summer Olympics, 2006 Commonwealth Games and multiple FIFA World Cup qualifiers. There are currently no concrete plans as to what the event would be; a WWE Live event, PPV, RAW/Smackdown and even an NXT Takeover have been named as possible circumstances. An NXT event would however be a hard sell for a 100,000 seater stadium with the biggest Aussie stars on the brand being TM-61 and Buddy Murphy, names that whilst talented are nowhere near the draw WWE would need to accomplish such a feat, even the stars on the main roster would possibly struggle to fill over 100,000 outside of WWE’s domestic market.
Something else to also consider is the fact that the rest of the traditional ‘big 4’ PPV events have already been allocated venues; Summerslam in the Barclays Center, Survivor Series in the Staples Center and of course WrestleMania will be emanating from New Orleans this year…this leaves no real space for a big Australian PPV event unless WWE decides to add an extra date and really push the event akin to one of these benchmark shows.
Revolution Pro Wrestling has announced the first match for their WrestleMania weekend show at WrestleCon in New Orleans.
The Undisputed British Heavyweight Championship will be on the line when Zack Sabre Jr defends against Tomohiro Ishii. Not only is this a bout to determine who can be regarded as the best performer in Rev Pro, but it is also a bout that pits Suzuki-Gun against the CHAOS faction, two of New Japan’s most highly regarded stables.
It is expected that more names will be announced for the show as we draw closer to that magic weekend in April, there are already confirmations that Minoru Suzuki and Will Ospreay will be in NOLA for WrestleMania weekend so expect their featured bouts to be announced shortly.
April 6th, 4pm – TOMOHIRO ISHII gets his reward for fine form in RevPro when he goes one on one with ZACK SABRE JR for the Undisputed British Heavyweight Championship
PROGRESS has announced the competitors for their annual ‘Thunderb*stard’ match at Chapter 64. The bout is a seven man elimination contest to determine the number 1 contender to the PROGRESS Wrestling World Championship, which is currently held by the ‘Kiwi Buzzsaw’ Travis Banks.
This year’s iteration of the match is arguably the most star studded in company history, as members of the WWE UK and 205 Live rosters will competing alongside the PROGRESS homegrown stars to see who will be the next number 1 contender.
WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne, Trent Seven, Tyler Bate, Mark Andrews, Chris Brookes, TK Cooper and ‘Flash’ Morgan Webster will collide on Sunday February 25th at the Electric Ballroom in Camden and it will be available to view On Demand shortly after.
So #Chapter64 is called #ThunderbastardsAreGo which means we have our patented THUNDERBASTARD match: New entrant every 2 minutes; elimination by pin, submission or DQ. Last man standing wins himself a title shot. MANDREWS / BROOKES / COOPER / FLASH / DUNNE / SEVEN / BATE! pic.twitter.com/YsFFF9DpyZ
Former WWE Cruiserweight Champion Rich Swann has been confirmed for Southside Wrestling’s Speed King 2018 tournament. The announcement has been met with a mixed reaction from fans of the UK scene, following recent news surrounding Swann.
The former 205 Live Superstar was arrested back in December for a domestic incident that included charges of battery and kidnapping/false imprisonment. The company wished him “the best in all of his future endeavors” – but still decided to release him on his birthday (February 15th), the decision was “mutually agreed” by both parties. All charges have since been dropped and Swann reportedly is hopeful of a return to WWE down the road.
Swann is the final entrant into the UK Super Indie extravaganza and he joins the already announced roster of:
UK based promotion XWA has crowned their first ever female Heavyweight Champion. Former Pro Wrestling: EVE Champion Rhia O’Reilly defeated Cara Noir as part of the EVE vs Wrestle Friends event this past weekend from the Resistance Gallery in Bethnal Green, London. The event saw performers from EVE’s All Female roster take on XWA’s predominately male roster, which included bouts between Jimmy Havoc vs Millie McKenzie and Doug Williams vs ‘Ace of EVE’ SHE-1 Champion Charlie Morgan.
Formerly known as the FWA Championship, the belt holds high regard amongst the UK scene and has been held by the likes of British wrestling legends Doug Williams and Robbie Brookside, Christopher Daniels and new 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick.
Another former holder of the belt and current NXT Superstar Killian Dain tweeted his congratulations to the enigmatic performer:
Austin Aries recently made his return to IMPACT Wrestling, the ‘Greatest Man That Ever Lived’ defeated then IMPACT World Champion Eli Drake in shocking fashion to once again sit atop the mountain for the company that previously saw him reign as X Division and TNA World Heavyweight Champion.
Since his departure from WWE and the Cruiserweight scene Aries has been branching out into more territories across the globe, most notably in the United Kingdom where he currently holds the IPW:UK and DEFIANT Wrestling World Championships.
Intriguingly Aries made his entrance on this week’s episode of IMPACT with both of these prestigious UK Championships and IMPACT appears to be touting the fact that Aries is a Champion around the world…will this mean co-promotion going forward? It will be interesting to see how this story develops, especially as IMPACT look to re-establish themselves on the pro wrestling scene and attempt to break back into markets such as the UK, possibly by running co-branded events alongside IPW:UK and DEFIANT.
Former NXT talent and current WWE Superstar Elias recently joined E&C’s Pod Of Awesomeness to talk about his run on the main roster. The man formerly known as “The Drifter” discussed the origins of his character singing to WWE crowds:
“One time I went to Largo, Florida and Terry Taylor came up to me and asked if I could sing a song tonight and I said, ‘OK, about what?’ He said that I should sing about the crowd. I came up with a song that night and the song kind of clicked right off the bat, so I evolved it from there. I started asking, at the time, ‘Who wants to walk with The Drifter?’ I would then tell a little story; it all really started at NXT, even though the NXT audience didn’t really get to see that side of me too much; the live events crowd definitely did see that.”
Elias also revealed that Triple H predicted during his time in NXT that his character would be more successful on the main roster than in developmental:
“Triple H has told me specifically from the very first time when he saw me, he said that it would be a better main roster character than NXT. It never really clicked with the NXT audience the way it has. The way I see it, I took my live event act in NXT and brought it to the main roster. They saw the live event act and said let’s put that on TV. On NXT, I would sing songs, but wouldn’t even do that, plus it was very dark and cryptic, but this is the kind of stuff I was doing on live events in NXT before being called up.”
He also discussed how he looks forward to his character evolving as he continues forward in his journey on the main roster:
“I definitely see my character evolving. I don’t want it to run until the wheels fall off. I am definitely going to get the most out of this incarnation of it, then hopefully whatever the crowd reacts to it, and storylines take me there are many level. Think about just any kind of rockstar who has had a journey; they have their ups and downs, their egos and demands and then they hit rock bottom. There’s a million ways to go with ‘Elias,’ in my mind I see it evolving in many different ways.”
You can listen to Elias on E&C’s Pod Of Awesomeness by clicking this link here.
WWE Hall Of Famer Jake “The Snake” Roberts was recently interviewed by The Wrestling Estate to talk about several professional wrestling topics. Roberts was asked about working closely alongside Vince McMahon and Pat Patterson on the WWE creative team in the 90s:
“When I was there, we had like six people who we’d sit down and go over things. Bottom line is it all goes through Vince [McMahon], anyway. But you could talk to Vince. He would listen to a point. We got along well when I was booking with him, quite well. Pat was just a tremendous talent.
“The only problem I had with Pat was that he liked to go with comedy too much. I feel like if people wanted comedy, they’d watch a comedy show. This is wrestling, let’s see some wrestling. But to each his own. You can’t knock Vince too much because he’s still rolling.”
Roberts also shared his opinion on why he thinks there is too much comedy in professional wrestling today:
“I think so. It’s my own feeling. But they’re doing a three-hour show and I’m sure it’s very taxing trying to keep it going. I guess there is a need for some comedy, but again, I just think they put too much out there. I don’t think they pay enough attention to heat for heels.
“Of course, there are no heels and babyfaces anymore. Everybody does the same stuff. I don’t like that either. There should be a clear line as to good guy and bad guy. I think that’s what the people really want. Maybe I’m wrong, hell, I’ve been wrong before.”
It turns out that Roberts also actually reached out to fellow WWE Hall Of Famer Ric Flair on battling alcoholism. “The Nature Boy,” however, didn’t want Roberts’ help in the matter:
“I sent a message to him, and unfortunately, he didn’t want any help from me. I’ll just leave it at that.”
You can read Roberts’ full interview with The Wrestling Estate by clicking this link here.
– This weekend’s Elimination Chamber match competitors; The Miz, Finn Balor, John Cena, Roman Reigns, Braun Strowman, Seth Rollins and Elias will all compete in a Gauntlet match on RAW tongiht. WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz took to Twitter to slam Balor specifically ahead of the match:
– Triple H has reached 7 million followers on Twitter and has become the third-most followed professional wrestling personality on the social media platform, right behind The Rock and John Cena. Here’s the full top ten list:
1. The Rock (12.6 million)
2. John Cena (10.9 million)
3. Triple H (7.1 million)
4. Randy Orton (5.8 million)
5. Sheamus 4.8 (million)
6. Steve Austin (4.4 million)
7. Daniel Bryan (4.3 million)
8. Shawn Michaels (3.9 million)
9. Nikki Bella (3.4 million)
10. Chris Jericho (3.4 million)
– WWE has announced the following:
WWE® (NYSE: WWE) today announced that tickets to Survivor Series will be available on Friday, March 16 starting at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT. Survivor Series will take place Sunday, November 18, 2018 at STAPLES Center in Los Angeles and will be streamed live around the world on WWE Network.
Ticket prices for Survivor Series range from $25-$500. All fans who purchase a $450 or $500 ticket will take home a commemorative Survivor Series chair. Tickets can be purchased at the STAPLES Center box office, www.AXS.com or by calling 888-9-AXS-TIX (888.929.7849) / 925-357-4228 (outside U.S. & Canada). All tickets are subject to service charges and facility fees.
In addition, Survivor Series Travel Packages will be available Monday, March 5 starting at noon ET at www.survivorseriestravel.com, allowing fans the opportunity to purchase NXT® TakeOver®, Monday Night Raw®, and SmackDown®Live tickets ahead of the general public.
Former WWE Superstar and IMPACT Wrestling talent Al Snow was recently interviewed by The Roman Show at Coastal Championship Wrestling’s (CCW) recent “Breaking Chains” event. Snow discussed his time with WWE’s old developmental territory, Ohio Valley Wrestling (OVW), and what it was like working with the female talents:
“When we were doing the developmental in OVW the women, which were Beth Phoenix, ODB, Katie Burchill and a lot of those women carried the show and were the main event. In fact, we had the first ever women’s ladder match in OVW in Louisville, Kentucky for WWE developmental between Beth Phoenix and Katie Burchill. They tore the house down. It was more than often than not that the women carried the show. The women can be as strong as an attraction if done in the right manner if treated respectfully.
“The most important, and this isn’t a sexist thing, if the women continue to be women – meaning they don’t become guys with boobs – that they can perform wrestle like a man, act professionally like a man, legitimately like a man, but maintain their feminine quality so they can relate to the men and women in the public.”
Snow was asked about former UFC women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey signing with WWE, and said she’s going to need a lot more charisma in professional wrestling than she did in mixed martial arts (MMA):
“It takes a very special person to work the opposite. If she’s capable of taking the charisma she had in MMA, she’ll need ten times the charisma in the WWE. I trained mixed martial artists King Mo and Dan Severn. Both will tell you [like] King Mo, ‘I don’t know how these guys do it. I would rather much prepare for a fight than train pro wrestling because physically there’s much more demand’.”
The former WWE Hardcore Champion also has a new clothing brand out, Collar and Elbow. Here’s what he had to say about it:
“I wanted to create a brand for wrestling. At the time, I didn’t know there was one for wrestling. Ultimately the biggest fans of wrestling are wrestlers. You have to be such a fan of wrestling. There’s nothing wrong being a fan of wrestling. The problem is the general public if you wear a wrestling shirt and identify as a wrestling fan, they get the usual ‘you like that? That’s fake.’ They don’t want to wear it.”