Monday’s RAW from Denver featuring the return of Bill Goldberg drew 3.130 million viewers, up from last week’s 2.758 million viewers.
Here’s the hourly breakdown, courtesy of ShowbuzzDaily:
RAW was #4 on cable in viewership and #2 in the 18-49 demographic last night. The NFL owned the night with over 8.3 million viewers.
Earlier today on his Facebook page Mick Foley announced that Sasha Banks vs. Charlotte for the WWE Womens Championship would be the main event of the Hell In A Cell PPV
He has now posted a comment under that same post retracting that statement saying the match order has yet to be finalized.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYxqY3Lh0uk
Today’s TNA business story comes from something that Dave Meltzer mentioned last night on Wrestling Observer Radio: “They’re probably gonna end up filing for bankruptcy. And then what happens? I don’t know.” After recapping the situation, he also added that “Dixie is still trying to figure out a way to — this is why it hasn’t been sold — to…I don’t know if it’s to stay in control, but the whole thing is she doesn’t want to look bad publicly.” Which is a ship that may have sailed.
First things first, let’s clear up some confusion that’s come up whenever this topic is broached: Does this mean they’re going out of business? No, not inherently.
There are two types of bankruptcy, Chapter 7 and Chapter 11. Chapter 7 is the type that the average person associates with bankruptcy, which is liquidation and pretty much guarantees the end of the company. Chapter 11 is restructuring, and allows a chance for the company to continue operating while settling the debts. For example, when HHG, ECW’s parent company, filed bankruptcy in 2001, it was Chapter 11, but was eventually converted to Chapter 7 for reason that should be obvious. TNA could theoretically file Chapter 11 and come out of this running shows.
With that out if the way, if TNA filed bankruptcy, who would they put down as creditors (the people/companies that it owes money)? Based on what we know, the list would include:
You may have noticed that Billy Corgan is not listed above: That’s because, as we reported last week, while the debts to Aroluxe and Fight Network/Anthem/MCC are on file with the Tennessee Secretary of State, there is no such debt to Corgan. Instead, Dixie Carter is listed as owing him money personally, and that was filed with Tennessee the day before he filed his lawsuit. If that means that TNA has no debt to Corgan, then he’s in trouble if TNA files bankruptcy and Carter doesn’t.
https://youtu.be/izzV-Wcwlew
There’s another debt, filed with the state of Delaware, listed in public record databases that we hadn’t mentioned yet. It shows TNA (through previous parent company TNA Entertainment,t not the current Impact Ventures) owing money to Navarre Corporation, their DVD distributor, since 2005. Starting in 2008, Navarre went through both a merger and a subsequent acquisition, and the debt listing itself has not been updated since 2010.
If TNA does file bankruptcy, then the secured creditors (those that TNA offered up collateral to and would have a lien on said collateral) will be first in line to collect. This would leave the wrestlers, Audience of One, and potentially Corgan (who looks like he has a secured claim, just with Dixie Carter and not the company) unlikely to collect. It also means that if The Fight Network wants the tape library (and it’s been reported that they may even have a portion already), they’d be in better position to get it than WWE. It’s long been believed that this is why WWE loaned ECW $587,500 in 2000, to get priority on the tape library and other intellectual property. However, that was a non-secured debt.
What does this mean for Corgan? We may find out Thursday if his lawsuit filings are unsealed by the court as has been rumored. Based on what we know now, though, he may have to hope that Dixie Carter files personal bankruptcy like Paul Heyman eventually did. Otherwise, his only recourse may be through his mysterious lawsuit.
Tonight’s SmackDown Live emanates from Denver, Colorado at the Pepsi Center and will feature AJ Styles putting the WWE Championship on the line against James Ellsworth.
WWE.com’s 5-point preview is focusing on the following items:
– Could James Ellsworth become the next WWE World Champion?
– What will be the fallout if Naomi beats Alexa Bliss again?
– The Lone Wolf sets his sights on The Real American
– Can Orton repel the power of The Wyatt Family?
– Who will set themselves apart in SmackDown’s Tag Team division?
Join us here later tonight for our SmackDown Live Results & Discussion.
You heard right! @realellsworth will get an opportunity at the @WWE World Championship against @AJStylesOrg's on #SDLive! #TalkingSmack pic.twitter.com/vKDHSLP5Us
— WWE (@WWE) October 13, 2016
– Paul Heyman will be appearing on ESPN SportsCenter on Wednesday night for the “Off The Top Rope” segment with Jonathan Coachman.
– SmackDown Superstar Simon Gotch turns 34 years old today.
– James Ellsworth now has his own t-shirt at WWE Shop.
– In recognition of Sasha Banks and Charlotte headlining WWE Hell in a Cell later this month, the official event poster is currently on display in the lobby of WWE headquarters in Stamford, CT:
#TheBoss @SashaBanksWWE and the #GeneticallySuperior @MsCharlotteWWE never looked so good! https://t.co/UsVchvNEki #HIAC #WWEHQ pic.twitter.com/PxxLA8ohiA
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Former TNA wrestler star Nick Aldis (Magnus Nick) joined the Jordan Garber NOW podcast last week to discuss his experience with the company, working for Global Force Wrestling and more. Here are some highlights of what he said about:
TNA Possibly Shutting Down:
“It would be sad. If its not going to be in a good place. Than it may be a better thing. If they get acquired by WWE it wont be the worst thing in the world. If they are going to cease operating at least they could live forever on the network and have a good legacy. I hope everyone there is having fun and continuing to make money.”
Why He Left TNA:
“It’s no secret at this point that my departure from there was because of money. But also because of a failed relationship with the guy in charge and that is much my fault as it is his fault.”
Working For Global Force Wrestling:
“I told Jeff Jarrett of course I’d work for you I’ll help you out. Then we did the TV taping’s in Vegas which were phenomenal. I had no idea. He just said your gonna win and you’re gonna be the champion and I said fantastic. Thanks. It was just business I guess he just seemed I was the suitable candidate.”
You can listen to the full interview at VOC Nation.
Here are the results from PROGRESS’ Chapter 37 show ‘A Sudden Sense of Liberty’ which took place at a sold out O2 Ritz in Manchester:
Bubblegum b. Chuck Mambo – Bubblegum took the win via pinfall in his return to PROGRESS
Kay Lee Ray b. Kimber Lee – Kay Lee Ray defeated Kimber Lee via pinfall
James Drake b. Fabian Aichner – PROGRESS debutant James Drake defeated Fabian Aichner via pinfall, this was also Aichner’s debut match for the company after impressing at WWE’s Cruiserweight Classic tournament.
PROGRESS Championship Number One Contender Match – “The Villain” Marty Scurll b. Pete Dunne, Joe Coffey & Trent Seven – Scurll took the submission victory to become the Number 1 contender to the title he lost to Mark Haskins at Chapter 36, after the match Jimmy Havoc appeared through the crowd and gave Scurll and Acid Rainmaker.
South Pacific Power Trip (w/ Dahlia Black) b.FSU & The Origin – The SPPT took the win via pinfall and now look likely contenders for the PROGRESS Tag Team Championships at a later show.
PROGRESS Atlas Championship – Rampage Brown b. Mikey Whiplash – Rampage took the win in his first defense of the PROGRESS Atlas championship via pinfall.
PROGRESS Championship Match – Mark Haskins b. Zack Gibson – Haskins took the win via submission in his first defence of the PROGRESS title since winning it at Chapter 36
#MANCHESTER TODAY! Useful info and FAQ: https://t.co/Rhkg4nIJ1X. See you at @O2RitzManc! #ThisIsProgress pic.twitter.com/aM93me8sxS
— PROGRESS Wrestling (@ThisIs_Progress) October 16, 2016
Sasha Banks vs. Charlotte for the RAW Women’s Championship will be the main event of this month’s WWE Hell in a Cell pay-per-view. The match was already on course to make history as the first women’s match to be held inside the demonic structure. It now has the distinct honor of being the first women’s match to headline a WWE pay-per-view.
WWE RAW General Manager Mick Foley made the announcement on Tuesday morning. “I am so happy for Sasha, for Charlotte, for all the women who paved the way, and all those who aspire to follow in their footsteps,” he said.
WWE Hall in a Cell takes place on Sunday, October 30th from Boston, MA.
– WWE has announced non-title matches with Universal Champion Kevin Owens taking on Chris Jericho and Seth Rollins in a Triple Threat, and Tag Team Champions The New Day taking on Cesaro and Sheamus.
Cesaro and Sheamus will do battle with The New Day less than a week later for the titles at Hell In a Cell, and Owens will defend against Rollins inside the Cell.
– As seen on RAW, Bill Goldberg returned to WWE TV for the first time in more than 12 years and accepted the challenge for a rematch against Brock Lesnar. In the video below, Goldberg is in no mood for questions after being asked what he thinks about Lesnar being on RAW next week to respond:
Two dark main events took place after tonight’s RAW in Denver – Rusev vs. WWE United States Champion Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins vs. WWE Universal Champion Kevin Owens.
Reigns won his match with a spear and Superman punch while Rollins won his match via DQ when Chris Jericho interfered. Rollins closed the show with a Pedigree on Owens and celebrated with fans to close the show. Rollins vs. Owens went more than 15 minutes.
After RAW, Owens and Rollins fought for the title, Jericho came down for the DQ and Owens put Y2J's scarf on before this finish pic.twitter.com/cbUAxXVTn1
— Colton Denning (@Dubsco) October 18, 2016
Bill Goldberg returned to WWE after a 12 year hiatus on Monday’s WWE RAW from Denver, Colorado. Goldberg made his memorable entrance, starting backstage and coming out to his classic WCW theme music as he walked through pyro on the stage.
In the ring, Goldberg soaked up the crowd reaction, which included “holy sh*t” and “this is awesome” chants. He was genuinely touched by the moment, pointing out this was the first time his wife and son got to see him live in a WWE ring. Goldberg said he would have been comfortable simply being a part of the WWE 2K17 video game – until Paul Heyman and Brock Lesnar called him out last week.
Goldberg says he’s got one more spear in him, one more devastating jackhammer and warned Brock Lesnar: not only is he “next” – but he’ll be last – indicating this will be a one-off match for the former WCW & WWE World Heavyweight Champion.
The match is expected to take place at WWE Survivor Series on Sunday, November 20th.
Brock Lesnar will be on next week’s RAW to react to Goldberg accepting his challenge.
Kevin Owens and Jericho kicked off this week’s episode of Raw. Owens immediately started scolding the crowd and they responded by chanting “Foley!”. Jericho then told the crowd to be quiet about 15 times.
Jericho blamed his loss to Seth Rollins last week on the referee. Jericho then added the WWE official to the list. Owens then claimed that he was going to retire Seth Rollins at Hell in a Cell. Rollins then interrupted and the crowd started chanting his name.
Rollins poked fun at Jericho’s scarf, tattoos and his haircut. Rollins then referred to Jericho as “sparkle crotch” due to his sparkly in-ring attire. Seth suggested that Jericho add his friendship with Kevin Owens to the list because it is fake. Rollins then referred to Jericho as weak and Jericho flipped out.
Jericho stated that he can defeat Rollins any place and anytime. Rollins then challenged Jericho to a match and dared him to ask Owens to stay backstage. Jericho accepted and asked Owens to leave. Owens thought it was a bad idea but Jericho claimed that he needed to remind Rollins and the stupid idiots in the audience who they are dealing with. Owens agreed to leave but stated he would be there in spirit. Owens and Jericho embraced in a hug and Rollins told Owens to get his hands off of sparkle crotch and head to the back.
Looks like @IAmJericho will go it alone against @WWERollins UP NEXT! #RAW pic.twitter.com/oPx3bUI6ep
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Chris Jericho vs Seth Rollins
Rollins stomped Jericho in the corner and hit a Dropkick. Jericho fought back and connected with a Backbreaker on Rollins. The next few minutes were back and forth. Rollins went for the Pedigree but Jericho blocked it. Rollins then hit a Dropkick that sent Jericho flying out of the ring and Raw went to a commercial.
When Raw returned, Jericho had control of the match. Rollins hit a running knee and followed it up by slamming Jericho’s face into the second turnbuckle. Rollins hit a Slingblade but Jericho kicked out at two. Jericho laid out Rollins with an elbow and then hit a Lionsault.
Jericho went for the Pedigree but Rollins blocked it and hit a Falcon Arrow. Kevin Owens then came out and both Superstars were distracted. Rollins hit a Crossbody off the top rope onto Jericho outside the ring. Rollins went for the Pedigree but Rollins countered into the Walls of Jericho. Rollins reached for the bottom rope but Owens pulled the rope away. The referee finally noticed and instructed Owens to stop. Rolins then was able to reach the bottom rope to break the hold.
Jericho went for the Codebreaker but Rollins blocked it. Rollins then hit the Pedigree for the victory and Owens walked away frustrated.
Winner: Seth Rollins
Reaction: Raw opened up with an entertaining promo and it was followed up with an even more entertaining match. Jericho and Owens will be throwing punches at each other in no time. Jericho wanted Owens to stay out of the match but he just couldn’t do it. Rollins continues to build momentum heading into Hell in a Cell. If Kevin Owens is to retain his Universal Championship at HIAC, it will most likely be due to some kind of shenanigans. Whether that be interference from Jericho, Triple H or someone completely unexpected.
The victorious @WWERollins looks ahead to his date with @WWE #UniversalChampion @FightOwensFight inside #HellInACell on Oct. 30! #HIAC #RAW pic.twitter.com/zPEno1AcWe
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Lita had an exclusive interview with Charlotte. Lita asked how Charlotte is preparing for her Hell in a Cell versus Sasha Banks. Charlotte responded that she was born ready for these moments. Charlotte went on to claim that she was the best female wrestler that the industry has ever seen. Charlotte then boasted that she has won 12 PPV matches in a row. Lita asked if she cared that the WWE Universe was fully behind Sasha Banks. Charlotte then mocked the WWE Universe and stated that she didn’t need them. The interview ended with Charlotte guaranteeing that she will become the three time Women’s Champion at Hell in a Cell.
"I've never needed the @WWEUniverse! I've never needed ANYONE to cheer me…" – @MsCharlotteWWE #RAW pic.twitter.com/h1Pg49DIyB
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Golden Truth & Mark Henry vs Shining Stars & Titus O’Neil
Titus and the Shining Stars tried to sell knock-off rolexes backstage earlier in the evening. The crowd was absolutely silent during this match. Mark Henry picked up the victory by delivering the World’s Strongest Slam to Titus O’Neil.
Winners: Golden Truth & Mark Henry
Jericho and Owens were shown creaming at each other backstage. Jericho claimed that he wasn’t Owens’ lackey or sidekick. Jericho almost called Owens a stupid idiot but he caught himself. Stephanie McMahon showed up and told them to stop allowing Seth Rollins to get into their heads. Stephanie also revealed that Raw has accepted Smackdown’s challenge for Survivor Series.
"I told you NOT to come down, you STU–" – @IAmJericho catches himself talking to his best friend @FightOwensFight! #RAW pic.twitter.com/UA2kW6FprG
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) October 18, 2016
Big E vs Sheamus
The New Day cut an entertaining promo before the match. They incited the entire crowd to chant “shame!” at Sheamus in the ring. Cesaro, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods were ringside for this match. Sheamus started off the match strong and hit a Suplex on Big E. Cesaro was walking around ringside while on Facebook live.
Big E hit a big splash onto Sheamus on the ring apron. Sheamus battled back and hit a Senton onto Big E outside the ring. When Raw returned from a commercial break, Big E hit Sheamus with a couple of Belly to Belly Suplexes. Big E went for another splash but this time Sheamus got his knees up to block it. Sheamus hit an Irish Curse Backbreaker but Big E kicked out at two. Big E battled back and hit a Powerbomb.
Sheamus hit the White Noise but once again Big E kicked out. Cesaro hopped into the crowd and Sheamus became annoyed. Sheamus grabbed Cesaro’s phone and told him to film the best Brogue Kick ever. Big E then rolled up Sheamus for the win as Cesaro stood on the apron with his phone. Cesaro had a gigantic smile on his face as Sheamus shouted at him.
Winner: Big E
Watch @WWECesaro LIVE NOW from #RAW ringside on @Facebook Live: https://t.co/OwPsbycs8b pic.twitter.com/Z8vDQmSBGE
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Reaction: I’m still not a big fan of teaming up Sheamus & Cesaro but it is starting to be mildly entertaining. The time has come to take the titles off of the New Day. I thought The Club would have been the perfect team to do so but obviously that will not be the case. The storyline here is that Cesaro and Sheamus have two weeks to figure out a way to work together. If they don’t, they will ultimately lose in their title match against the New Day at Hell in a Cell. However, if they do find a way to work together they can certainly defeat the New Day and capture the titles. I’d still just much rather see either of them in the Universal or United States Championship picture. That way we wouldn’t have to see Roman Reigns versus Rusev 10,000 times in a row.
Bo Dallas vs Neville
Bo started off this match like a psycho. He was shouting at the WWE Universe and beating the hell out of Neville. It didn’t take too long for Neville to fight back and hit an impressive Moonsault on top of Bo outside the ring. Neville was going up to the top rope to attempt the Red Arrow but Bo knocked him down to the ring apron. Bo Dallas then capitalized on this and won the match.
After the match, Curtis Axel ran into the ring to celebrate with his friend. Bo Dallas didn’t take too kindly to this and sent Axel flying into the barricade outside the ring. Bo then slammed his knee into Axel’s head and instructed the WWE Universe to Bolieve in Bo.
Winner: Bo Dallas
A victorious @TheBoDallas just realized he didn't need the support of @RealCurtisAxel… #RAW pic.twitter.com/EReLOaAvAe
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) October 18, 2016
Dana Brooke vs Bayley
Bayley started off the match in control but Dana Brooke battled back and slammed Bayley into the turnbuckle. The WWE Universe started chanting “Bayley” to try and get her back into the match. Bayley responded by hitting Dana Brooke with an elbow in the corner. Dana Brooke then rolled out of the ring but Bayley hit her with a Dropkick anyway. Dana Brooke then slammed Bayley into the LED ring post and picked up the pinfall victory.
Winner: Dana Brooke
Reaction: The ending of the match was a bit weird. Dana Brooke seemed to be trying to get her foot on the bottom rope for leverage but was too far away. I could be completely wrong about that but it certainly was an awkward pinfall. The crowd didn’t really have a reaction to the end of the match because it came out of nowhere.
Time to flex as @DanaBrookeWWE remains in control of @itsBayleyWWE! #RAW pic.twitter.com/TPVGSy0Ej5
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) October 18, 2016
Paul Heyman appeared via satellite from the WWE Studios. Heyman encouraged Goldberg to say to no to Lesnar’s challenge later tonight. Heyman then stated if Goldberg did accept the challenge, Goldberg will be destroyed by Lesnar.
"If you say YES, you're gonna piss @BrockLesnar OFF!" – @HeymanHustle to @Goldberg, #RAW pic.twitter.com/i0XpRnDXdo
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Braun Strowman vs The Mile High Trio
Stowman once again destroyed his opposition. Strowman chased one of the members of the Mile High Trio outside the ring and clubbed him in the back. Once back in the ring, Strowman picked up the easy victory.
After the match, Strowman once again demanded that Foley give him some real competition. Sami Zayn then came out from the back and marched down to the ring. The crowd chanted “Sami!” as he stood toe to toe with Strowman. Braun then shoved Strowman out of the ring and walked away.
Winner: Brawn Strowman
What is @iLikeSamiZayn thinking getting face-to-face with the monstrous @BraunStrowman? #RAW pic.twitter.com/vs3SZsg7Ju
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Rusev and Lana came down to the ring to cut a promo. Rusev barked at the crowd to stop chanting “USA!”. Lana then referred to Rusev as a phenomenal family man and insulted all the men in the audience. Rusev then insulted Roman Reigns’ s family. Rusev then introduced the WWE Universe to his family via a slideshow appearing on the screen. Rusev stated that his mother is a two time rowing champion. Lana then insulted all of the women in the audience. The crowd then booed Rusev’s mother and Rusev got angry.
Rusev then showed a picture of his father and referred to him as “Papa Rusev”. The crowd once again booed. Rusev then introduced his brother and stated that he was the best chef in Bulgaria. Rusev then showed a picture of his grandmother and his family dog. Rusev claimed that his dog has won multiple dog show awards all around the world.
Finally, Roman Reigns interrupted and came down to the ring. Reigns referred to his family as the “Roman Empire”. Reigns stated that Rusev looked more like the family dog than his father. Lana then slapped Reigns in the face and Rusev followed it up with a kick to the head. Rusev then beatdown Reigns outside the ring. Rusev slammed the steel stairs on Reigns. A “Roman!” chant broke out in the crowd. Reigns tried to fight back but Rusev kicked him and sent him into the steps again. Rusev then propped Reigns up onto the steps and locked in the Accolade. The crowd booed as Rusev stood tall over Reigns.
Reaction: This was a decent promo. Rusev and Lana insulting the crowd was amusing. The problem with this feud remains the same. I simply do not envision Rusev defeating Reigns at Hell in a Cell. Reigns will most likely hold the United States Championship for some time. It is hard to get invested in a feud when you feel like the conclusion of it is way too predictable.
https://twitter.com/WWE/status/788200712937156608
Karl Anderson vs Big Cass
Both Luke Gallows and Enzo Amore were ringside for this match. Big Cass started out the match by pummeling Anderson in the corner. Cass hit a slam on Anderson that sent him rolling out of the ring. Big Cass then launched Enzo onto Gallows outside the ring. Big Cass then quickly defeated Karl Anderson via the East River Crossing.
Winner: Big Cass
#EastRiverCrossing CONNECTS for @BigCassWWE, and that's good enough for the victory over @KarlAndersonWWE! #RAW pic.twitter.com/VU0VBMZypf
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) October 18, 2016
Lita had an exclusive interview with Sasha Banks. Sasha stated that her and Charlotte are making history together at Hell in a Cell. Sasha claimed that she is the best and that she was going to show Charlotte that at Hell in a Cell. Sasha told Lita that she is completely over her back injury and that she is ready to go. Lita asked Sasha if she was afraid of the cell and Sasha said that fear is not an option at Hell in a Cell.
"To be the first-ever woman inside #HellInACell, I can't believe it…" – #RAW #WomensChampion @SashaBanksWWE pic.twitter.com/iswDmkFuU4
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Brian Kendrick, Drew Gulak & Tony Nese vs TJ Perkins, Cedric Alexander & Rich Swann
Gulak and Swann started out the match. Gulak slapped Swann in the face and slammed him to the mat. Swann responded by connecting with a Dropkick. Alexander and Nese were then tagged in. Alexander slammed Nese to the mat and tagged in TJ Perkins.
Nese hit Perkins with a Suplex but TJ kicked out. When Raw returned from a commercial break, Alexander and Gulak were in the ring. Alexander landed a kick to Gulak’s head. Swann and Nese were then tagged in. Swann hit a Hurricanrana on Nese.
Nese hit a 450 Splash on Swann. Kendrick then tagged himself in and locked in the Captain’s Hook. Perkins tried to break up the hold but he was dragged out of the ring. Swann had no choice but to submit.
Winners: Brian Kendrick, Drew Gulak & Tony Nese
Mick Foley and Stephanie McMahon announced that there will be a triple threat match between Owens, Jericho and Rollins next week on Monday Night Raw.
Goldberg made his return to the WWE. He walked down the ramp and repeatedly swore and the WWE had to bleep it out. The audience greeted him with a very loud “Goldberg!” chant. Goldberg seemed moved by this and acknowledged the crowd. The crowd then erupted in a “holy s***!” chant.
The audience then chanted “this is awesome!” as Goldberg tried to fight back the emotion of returning in the ring. Michael Cole then gave Goldberg a microphone. Goldberg thanked the crowd and stated that his wife and his son were in the arena seeing him live for the first time.
Goldberg stated that the biggest thing he missed was being a superhero for all the kids in the WWE Universe. Goldberg went on to say that he created some drama and that he should maybe leave it alone. Goldberg then said that Lesnar challenged him to a fight but made his fat little stooge Paul Heyman do it for him. Goldberg accepted Lesnar’s challenge and stated that Lesnar is not only next but he is last. Thus, it is confirmed. Goldberg will have one last match against Brock Lesnar.
#TheBeast @BrockLesnar is not only NEXT for @Goldberg…
He's LAST! #RAW #Goldberg pic.twitter.com/kh0wmlPObg— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
Reaction: Tonight’s episode of Monday Night Raw was better than the previous few shows. However, it still had plenty of filler. Goldberg’s return to WWE was certainly an awesome moment. I’m happy that he gets the oppurtunity to wrestle in front of his family for the first time. The WWE did a good job of showing vignettes to inform the audience of just who Goldberg is. He hasn’t been in the WWE for 12 years and they had to do that because a lot of today’s fans simply don’t know him.
For those that have been wrestling fans for longer than 12 years, they might remember the match between Lesnar and Goldberg at Wrestlemania 20. It was horrendous. The main reason it was so bad was because everybody was aware that both Lesnar and Goldberg were leaving the WWE. Now, the crowd will be more invested because it is Goldberg’s last match. Having said that, Goldberg hasn’t wrestled in a long time and is 49 years old.
I’m really hoping this match comes close to matching the hype put behind it. I wouldn’t mind seeing this match turn into a street fight or have it be no disqualification. Brock Lesnar has quite literally destroyed almost everyone he has gotten into the ring with in WWE. This is another match where it is hard to believe that Goldberg stands a chance. However, if you add in a steel chair or two I think it would make it more interesting and believable.
What did you think of tonight’s episode of Monday Night Raw? Are you excited for the Goldberg and Lesnar match? Let us know in the comments below.
– WWE taped Nia Jax vs. Alicia Fox and Darren Young vs. Jinder Mahal tonight in Denver for this week’s Superstars episode.
– Beginning with tonight’s RAW, Paige is no longer in the show opening video. She was replaced by WWE Cruiserweight Champion TJ Perkins.
– Paul Heyman will be speaking with Jonathan Coachman on this Wednesday’s ESPN SportsCenter “Off The Top Rope” segment.
Daniel Bryan’s battle with depression will be covered on this week’s episode of Total Bellas on E!, as seen in the preview clip above.
Brie brings up Bryan battling depression and anxiety while at the spa with her sister Nikki. Brie says in the clip:
“What a lot of people don’t know about my husband is he’s been battling depression since he was 25. And really our whole relationship I’ve been used to his depression, but definitely in the last two years I know, OK it comes, it hits hard, but it only lasts for two days.
I’ve always told him, ‘Go to therapy or see someone.’ And I’ve always left it for him to decide who he wants to tell, how he wants to tell people.”
The October 18th, 2016 edition of Monday Night RAW aired live from the Pepsi Center in Denver, CO.
– RAW kicks off with the announce team talking about Goldberg’s return tonight, and we see some highlights from his career mixed in with clips from WWE 2K17. We are also told about a segment later where Lita will interview Sasha Banks and Charlotte.
– Kevin Owens and Jericho are out to the ring next, and they have mics and the LIST. Owens says Mick Foley has a vendetta against him and Jericho. Jericho tells the crowd to be quiet, and says that Foley putting Owens in a dangerous Hell In A Cell match is proof that Foley is a stupid idiot. Owens says the Hell In A Cell won’t break him like it broke Mick Foley. Owens says he will put Seth Rollins through hell. Jericho adds that he should have been in that Hell In A Cell match to make it a three way, because he’s beaten Stone Cold and The Rock on the same night. He reminds us that he beat The Undertaker, so he “sure as hell” could beat Seth Rollins. Jericho says Rollins got the better of him last week due to the referee, so Jericho puts the referee on the list for not doing a good job. Owens says he’s going to retire Rollins at Hell In A Cell, and with that, Rollins comes out to the stage to interrupt. Rollins cuts a promo on Jericho, which ears him a spot on Jericho’s list. Rollins says Owens just stood by and watched Jericho get Pedigreed two weeks in a row, and says Jericho seems weak. Jericho informs Rollins that he’s the best at what he does, and says he can beat Rollins any time, any place. Rollins says they can do it right now, but says Owens should go to the back so he doesn’t interfere. Jericho tells Owens to leave, but he’s still his best friend. Rollins hits the ring and we have a match.
WWE Universal Champion @FightOwensFight promises to RETIRE @WWERollins inside #HellInACell. #RAW pic.twitter.com/orKoXis35n
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
– Seth Rollins def. Chris Jericho: After some back and forth action in the opening minutes, Jericho pins for a two-count after hitting a double-underhook backbreaker. Jericho takes Rollins outside and beats him down around ringside. Back in the ring, Rollins dodges a clothesline off the top rope and attempts a Pedigree, but Jericho gets out. Rollins hits a running forearm in the corner and the blockerbuster neckbreaker off the middle rope for a near-fall. Jericho comes back with his patented springboard dropkick, sending Rollins to the outside. After a couple more minutes of offense from Jericho, Rollins comes back with a kick and a series of chops. Jericho stops Rollins’ comeback with an elbow to the face and a Lionsault for a two count. Rollins escapes a Pedigree attempt by Jericho, and follows up with a knee to the face and a Falcon Arrow for a two count. Rollins starts climbing the turnbuckle when Kevin Owens’ music hits and he comes down the ramp, distracting Rollins. Jericho rolls outside and Rollins comes off the top down onto Jericho on the floor. Rollins rolls Jericho in the ring, hits a springboard knee off the top and goes for the Pedigree, but Jericho gets out and puts Rollins in the Walls of Jericho. Rollins makes his way to the ropes but Owens pulls the rope away from ringside. Rollins finally reaches the rope, and the referee starts arguing with Jericho and Owens. Rollins comes up from behind and rolls up Jericho, then after a series of missed clotheslines and kicks, he hits the Pedigree for the win.
– We see footage from an interview Lita did with Charlotte. Charlotte cuts a good promo on Sasha Banks, saying she’s going to be the better woman at Hell In A Cell.
– The Golden Truth & Mark Henry def. The Shining Stars & Titus O’Neil: Before the match, we see a backstage segment where The Shining Stars and Titus try to rip off Goldust, R-Truth and Mark Henry with fake Rolex watches. After a brief match, Mark Henry tags himself in and hits The World’s Strongest Slam on Titus for the win.
– Chris Jericho is in the back getting in Owens’ face about getting involved in his match. Jericho almost calls Owens a stupid idiot, but stops himself. Owens says he’s the Universal Title and won’t be called a stupid idiot, and insists he was trying to help Jericho. Stephanie McMahon interrupts and tells them they should stick together because they’ll be at war against SmackDown at Survivor Series.
– Big E def. Sheamus: The New Day cuts a promo before the match about being Tag Team champs for 420 days, and how Sheamus and Cesaro don’t like each other. The opening bell rings and Sheamus hits a German suplex early on. He hits a running knee to Big E, but Big E comes back with a clothesline and a spear in the corner. Big E hits a clothesline that drops Sheamus on the apron, and follows up with a Splash on Sheamus right on the edge of the apron. Big E charges towards Sheamus at ringside, but Sheamus picks him up on his shoulders and hits a rolling senton on the floor. Back in the ring, Big E hits a series of belly to belly suplexes. Sheamus blocks a splash with his knees then hits the Irish Curse backbreaker for a two count. Big E hits a powerbomb on Sheamus then goes for the Big Ending, but Sheamus fights out and hits the White Noise for a near-fall. Sheamus gets distracted yelling at Cesaro for being on his smartphone, and Big E rolls up Sheamus from behind out of nowhere for the win.
NICE #BellyToBelly by @WWEBigE! Can he make it 2-for-2 for #TheNewDay against @WWESheamus & @WWECesaro in the past two weeks? #RAW pic.twitter.com/FSM9RIFMHG
— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) October 18, 2016
– Bo Dallas def. Neville: We see a backstage segment before the match where Curtis Axel tells Bo Dallas that he Bo-lieves in him, and Axel will be in Dallas’ corner for this match. Bo controls the opening minutes of the match with knee and elbow strikes, but Neville comes back with a series of kicks. Dallas rolls outside and Neville hits a springboard moonsault onto Dallas on the floor. Back in the ring, Bo comes back with a spinning reverse DDT for the win. Bo Dallas beats down Curtis Axel after the match.
– Dana Brooke def. Bayley: After some back and forth action in the opening minutes, Dana takes control of the match and stomps on Baylee in the corner. Dana dodges a splash in the corner and Bayley hits her head on the ring post. Dana rolls her up for the win after a short match.
– Paul Heyman cuts a promo on the big screen advising Bill Goldberg to decline a match against Brock Lesnar. Heyman says Lesnar is just going to be pissed off that Goldberg is coming back, and that the fans are chanting his name. He says that Lesnar will conquer Goldberg if Goldberg accepts the match.
– Braun Strowman def. The Mile High Trio: Strowman is facing three jobbers at once tonight. In a pre-match interview, one of the Trio says that Strowman will get winded because of the high altitude. The opening bell rings and Strowman throws two of the jobbers to the outside, then throws the third one over the top rope onto his partners on the floor. Back in the ring, Strowman hits a double dropkick on two of them, then chases the third one around ringside and drops him. Strowman hits a running powerslam on one jobber, then reverse chokeslams another one ontop of him for the win. After the match, Strowman says he wants more competition, and with that, Sami Zayn comes out. Zayn gets in the ring and stares down Strowman. Strowman pushes him out of the ring then walks to the back as Zayn watches him walk away.
– Rusev comes out with Lana and cuts a promo about his family, showing pictures of them on the big screen. Roman Reigns interrupts and comes out to the ring. Reigns says Rusev will need to call 911 after Hell In A Cell. Lana slaps Reigns across the face then Rusev hits him with a superkick. Rusev continues to beat down Reigns around ringside. Rusev hits another superkick then throws Reigns into the ring steps. Rusev lays Reigns on the ring steps and puts him in the Accolade on the steps.
It's time for #MeetTheRusevs on #RAW as @RusevBUL introduces the @WWEUniverse to his mother Slavka! pic.twitter.com/1adhqjyg1n
— WWE (@WWE) October 18, 2016
– Big Cass def. Karl Anderson: We see footage of The Club laying out Enzo and Cass last week. Luke Gallows and Enzo Amore are at ringside for this one. Cass dominates the opening moments of the match and takes things outside where he throws Enzo into Gallows. Back in the ring, Anderson comes back with a kick to the face of Cass. Cass is able to come back with the East River Crossing for the win in a fairly short match.
– We see footage from Lita’s interview with Sasha Banks. Sasha talks about how her match against Charlotte at Hell In A Cell will make history.
– Brian Kendrick, Drew Gulak, & Tony Nese def. Cedric Alexander, Rich Swan, & TJ Perkins: Lots of fast-paced exchanges in the opening moments. Nese and Swan start going at it and Swan hits a hurricrana off the top on Nese. TJ Perkins hits a springboard dropkick on Gulak on the outside, while in the ring Nese kicks Swan off the top rope and follows up with a 450 splash. Kendrick tags himself in and locks the Captain’s Hook on Swan for the win.
– Mick Foley tells Stephanie McMahon backstage that she stole his thunder by accepting Shane’s Survivor Series challenge without him. They talk about the upcoming Hell In A Cell PPV and hare an awkward high-five.
– Michael Cole is in the ring to introduce Goldberg. The camera follows Goldberg through the hallway in the back as members of the locker room cheers him on. The crowd chants for Goldberg and Goldberg appears to get emotional. Cole gives the mic to Goldberg and the former WCW Champion says this is why you “never say never.” He thanks the fans for welcoming him back, and says there are a lot of things he misses in this business. Goldberg cuts a promo about wanting to be a hero to kids again. He says unfortunately some drama was created between him and Brock Lesnar, and he thinks maybe it’s better left alone and left in the video game. The crowd chants “no.” Goldberg says Lesnar didn’t have the balls to challenge him himelf, he had to send his “fat, little stooge Heyman” to do it for him. Goldberg says he thinks maybe he has one more ass-kicking left in him. Goldberg says Brock Lesnar is not only next, but also last. Cole says that Lesnar will be live on RAW next week to respond to Goldberg.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5TxBv2lQU08
Earlier today, WWE filed various motions in the consolidated lawsuits that deal with both claims related to WWE’s treatment of brain injuries as well as the alleged illegality of the company’s contracts. One of the exhibits was something that WWE sent the plaintiffs back in August, which is proof that a whopping 19 of the over 50 wrestlers pursuing the lawsuit signed away their right to sue. Previously, when Rene Dupree tried suing over WWE Network royalties. a similar conflict came up. Those who WWE claims signed away their right to sue are:
This development is unlikely to sit well with Judge Vanessa Bryant, who is presiding over the combined cases. She’s had less and less patience with the plaintiffs and their lawyers as of late.
Ahead of his WWE return tonight on RAW from Denver, Bill Goldberg did some MMA training with Duane Ludwig and Simon “The ONE” Marcus in Denver, Colorado.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BLrC2dqAZG1/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BLrFwm4gkE4/
https://www.instagram.com/p/BLq9l5bgFP4/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WNs3ZL1iuYc
Not only has Paige’s father, Ricky Knight, come out against her engagement to Alberto El Patron, but unsurprisingly, Raymond Rafool, the divorce lawyer for Alberto’s wife, has as well. On Monday, Ryan Satin of Pro Wrestling Sheet if asked Rafool the divorce has been finalized yet, to which he said “They are far from it at this stage.” In other words, they’re still legally married. Alberto’s wife alleges that he started his relationship with Paige before they separated.
Rafool made sure to add that “Of course, Paige should watch carefully how Alberto is denying and treating his current wife and the mother of his children in this divorce. History repeats itself.”
Previously, Rafool was the lawyer for Linda Bollea in her divorce from Hulk Hogan, eventually netting her an incredibly generous and lopsided settlement that gave her a significant percentage of the gross (not the profits) of Hulk’s businesses.
Indy wrestling promoters trying to book former WWE Superstar The Boogeyman for dates later this year have reportedly been told that he signed a new deal to return to WWE. This should be taken as a rumor for now but it sounds like he could be back on TV before the year is over, if the rumors are true.
The Boogeyman signed a WWE Legends deal in November 2015 and has appeared on WWE Swerved in the last year. He’s continued to work for indy promotions, including Booker T’s ROW.
Boogeyman often tweets with fans on Twitter and recently posted these clips:
DIS LIL LIGHT OF MIND!!!!CMIN2GETCHA ! pic.twitter.com/GhrpWvJZBe
— BOOGEYMAN (@realboogey) October 17, 2016
Happy Halloween pic.twitter.com/uhtHpFbgdr
— BOOGEYMAN (@realboogey) October 17, 2016
Bill Goldberg returns to WWE after a 12 year hiatus at tonight’s RAW from Denver, Colorado. WWE.com is advertising the following items for the show:
– Will Bill Goldberg accept Paul Heyman’s challenge to battle Brock Lesnar once again?
– How will Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley react to Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan Survivor Series challenges? It looks like we’ll be seeing traditional 5-on-5 matches featuring the top men, women and tag teams from RAW and SmackDown.
– Seth Rollins continues to hunt down WWE Universal Champion Kevin Owens.
– RAW Women’s Champion Sasha Banks and Charlotte’s collision course continues and will culminate at Hell in a Cell.
– The latest from Cesaro and Sheamus’ quest to capture the RAW tag team titles from The New Day.
– How far will Bayley have to go to defeat Dana Brooke once and for all?
Join us here later tonight for our WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion.
Paige’s father is “totally against” her engagement to Alberto El Patron, but it sounds like she couldn’t be more excited. The [suspended] WWE Superstar professed her love for Alberto once again on Monday morning, her first public comments since proposing to him last night in Puerto Rico.
Paige wrote, “When you have something that’s unbreakable. You keep it. Never have I loved someone so much in my life. Thanks for the love you give me. You’re my world.”
She posted the following on Instagram on Monday morning, capturing the big moment and showing off her “Alberto” tattoo:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BLqnEfdgXl0/?taken-by=realpaigewwe
On Sunday night Bill Goldberg streamed a video live on Periscope of him and his family inside a private plane landing in Denver for tonight’s RAW.
“The Goldbergs have arrived in Denver” he announced, noting that “the clock is ticking” ahead of his big WWE return. “First time in 12 years, should be fun. You never know what’s going to happen.”
Goldberg is currently advertised for 3 episodes of WWE RAW and is expected to face Brock Lesnar at WWE Survivor Series on Sunday, November 20th.
Join us here later tonight for our WWE RAW Results & Live Coverage.
Lucha Underground’s first live events tour will kick off later this month from Phoenix, Arizona. Cricket Wireless issued a press release on Friday announcing the following tour dates:
There will be two meet & greets with a Luchador in each city. Fans can stop by a meet & greet at a local Cricket branded retail store. There will also be exclusive meet at greets at the Lucha Live events.
El Rey Network President and GM Daniel Tibbets said, “As those who attend our show tapings in Boyle Heights can attest – seeing ‘Lucha Underground’ live is a spectacular experience and we are so excited that Cricket is bringing this opportunity to ‘Lucha Underground’ fans in Phoenix, Houston and San Diego.”
Video has surfaced of WWE Superstar Paige proposing to Alberto El Patron at Sunday night’s WWC Aniversario 43 show from Puerto Rico. The two have been dating since earlier this year.
Meanwhile, Paige’s father Ricky Knight posted a brief reaction on Facebook, since deleted, where he was blunt about his feelings about the engagement:
Putting his out there then saying no more,about it to anyone I am totally against my daughter marrying that man statement over.
Knight has been outspoken on social media regarding his daughter’s wellness policy suspensions but claims this is the last he’ll comment on this engagement.
People in attendance at tonight’s WWC Aniversario show in Puerto Rico are reporting that Paige has proposed to Alberto Del Rio and they are now engaged.
News Flash! @RealPaigeWWE. Asked @VivaDelRio. To marry her! It all happen in PR!! #WWCAnversario43 #sisisi #thisismyhouse #Paige #ADR pic.twitter.com/XimPSy5Kk6
— Yan Rodriguez (@YanRdz19) October 17, 2016