Anthem Sports & Entertainment, the parent company of TNA and The Fight Network, has reportedly had talks recently with TNA co-founder Jeff Jarrett. Jarrett hasn’t been offered a role nor has he been doing any advising, but rather talked to them about TNA’s earlier years. According to a report by John Pollack of The Fight Network, Anthem reportedly brought Jarrett in to give “background information” about TNA.

Anthem is preparing to revive the TNA brand, and they started bringing in Jarrett earlier this month. Anthem executive Ed Nordholm is overseeing TNA, and he reportedly wanted first-hand information about how the promotion operated throughout different periods in it’s history.

Jarrett and Nordholm’s talks were originally considered top secret, but when Pollack heard rumors at the office and asked Anthem higher-ups to confirm, they did and allowed him to run with the story as he saw fit.

Cody Rhodes is in the midst of an historic post-WWE run. Since departing the company back in May, Rhodes has competed for TNA, ROH, PWG, WCPW and may other independent promotions across the world. He’ll debut for New Japan Pro Wrestling at Wrestle Kingdom 11 on January 4th.  After that show, he will have competed at WrestleMania, Bound For Glory, BOLA, Final Battle and WrestleKingdom inside a 12-month period. Cody set a new standard for what’s possible for a wrestler after working for WWE, but does he ever think about returning?

During a recent interview with Rolling Stone, the American Nightmare commented on that prospect. There’s no denying Cody’s stock is way up since taking greater control of his career path. When asked by his wife Brandi if he’d consider a surprise appearance in the 2017 Royal Rumble, Cody scoffed at the idea. Brandi asked, “What if they said, ‘Come back at the Royal Rumble, and make it about you and Triple H and head to WrestleMania with that’?” That’s when his answer changed.

“Maybe in my heart, the end game is to go back to WWE, but it’s definitely not in the forefront of my mind,” Cody said. “Each time I go out there, I find out a little bit more about where I’m ultimately happy being.”

“I think people who say, ‘I’m never going back to WWE,’ I don’t understand that. I had a lot of gripes, and those are things that I’d be a hypocrite if I went back and didn’t try to make right. But I think it’s silly when people say never, unless you’ve been burned that bad. I really can’t even say I’ve been burned at all.”

Until then, he’ll continue forging his own path. Here’s a look at what’s on tap for Cody this weekend:

Heading across the pond for four big events ??

Don't miss em'

Thursday @SWE_online
Friday @ExpoEnt
Saturday @PCW_UK
Sunday @IPWUK

— Cody Rhodes (@CodyRhodes) December 14, 2016

This week’s WWE SmackDown from Washington, DC drew 2.361 million viewers. This is down from last week’s 2.479 million viewers for the post-TLC episode.

The show featured Dean Ambrose vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Luke Harper vs. The Miz in a Fatal 4 Way main event to crown the new #1 contender, a battle royal to crown new #1 contenders to the tag team championships and more.

SmackDown was #9 in viewership and #2 in the 18-49 demographic on cable last night.

By comparison, this week’s RAW from Houston drew 2.758 million viewers.

While luchador Tortuga Rafy had initially asked fans and colleagues to just drop the topic of his locker room brawl with Alberto El Patron during Sunday night’s IWRG card at Arena Naucalpan, it’s easy to see why he would change his tune. At that point, Alberto had not yet accused him of groping Paige, and once that happened, its no surprise that he would want to defend his name. On Wednesday, as part of the latest edition of the En+Carados podcast showLucha+TV’s YouTube channel (embedded above), Rafy gave his side of the story.

Shortly thereafter, Alfredo Esparza of LuchaWorld.com tweeted translations of the key points as he listened. To make it easier to follow, we won’t embed all of Fredo’s tweets (there were over a dozen), but make sure follow him on Twitter and check out both his site and podcast.

According to Rafy (who has also worked as Alan Xtreme,) was heading downstairs when he literally bumped into Paige and insisted she pass through first by saying “pass by, beautiful.” He conceded that he shouldn’t have worded it that way. When that got back to Alberto, he was hot at Rafy, saying it as disrespectful and asking “Who are you calling beautiful?” Rafy insisted he meant no disrespect and explained that he never touched Paige, but Alberto then yanked his mask off. Rafy tried to flee to the locker room to cover up (they was adjacent to a public hallway), and that’s when Alberto followed, throwing punches.

Tortuga Ninja Rafy wants to clear up that he did not touch Paige. Paige told Alberto that she was not touched by the turtle.

— Fredo Esparza (@therealfredo) December 14, 2016

Rafy claimed that the early reports about him being knocked out and/or his face being badly marked up were not true. As the fight was broken him, he says Alberto calmed down and started apologizing. Rafy then apologized to Paige and Alberto, essentially saying that while he thought he was being chivalrous, these days, complimenting a women’s appearance out the blue is seen differently. He’s insistent that he did not touch Paige and that she backed up his story to Alberto.

He feels that the story blew up largely because of social media and his friend, wrestler AK-47, who posted on Facebook that Alberto “nearly killed” him, probably just got bad info (they hadn’t spoken about it yet) and was overly concerned. Rafy has no problem admitting that he got hit more and that Alberto “won” the brawl. saying that sometimes you win fights, and sometimes you lose.

After finishing the translation/summary, Esparza had some advice for wrestlers who will be around Paige and Alberto:

Paige is good-looking & Alberto's got a temper, so maybe for your safety don't look/talk/open doors for Paige.

— Fredo Esparza (@therealfredo) December 14, 2016

Analysis: The biggest question mark around Rafy’s story is that he says it was settled almost immediately and Paige made it clear to Alberto that he didn’t touch her. If that’s the case, then Alberto either didn’t believe them or decided to go with that “inappropriate touching” story on Twitter to save face. Of course, there’s also the other possibilities, which are that it wasn’t settled afterwards or possibly that Rafy actually did grope Paige. Since Alberto reportedly blew up in at Robbie E. eight days earlier over what was apparently a similar non-incident with Paige at a WWC show, the gist of Rafy’s story absolutely comes off as credible, though.

– Ireland’s Over The Top Wrestling promotional has officially joined the FloSlam streaming network. OTT has two big events coming up later this month, both of which will stream live and will be then be available on demand.

OTT: The Dream Before Christmas takes place 12/28 and will be headlined by Ricochet vs. Will Ospreay. The following night (12/29), OTT: Belafast Invasion will feature Marty Scurll vs. Ricochet in the main event.

https://twitter.com/floslam/status/809071093034156032

– VICE Sports has published an excellent article looking at “How The Young Bucks Revolutionized Professional Wrestling.” The feature looks at The Young Bucks being wrestling fans since childhood, breaking into the business and what makes them so successful.

The act is designed to operate on multiple levels. If you want nostalgia—the crotch chops, the “suck it,” the gratuitous imitations of wrestlers living and dead—well, the Young Bucks can do that. Or you can watch them as a circus act: bright costumes, brilliant acrobatics, plenty of playing off the crowd. But the reason why the Young Bucks transfix the hardcore fans as much as the casual ones lies in stunts like the one with Meltzer [their “Meltzer Driver” move], and what they represent: bringing the wrestling nerd subculture into the mainstream.

We strongly recommend checking out the full article over at VICE Sports.

How the Young Bucks @MattJackson13 and @NickJacksonYB revolutionized professional wrestling: https://t.co/hkeGpWy0B5 pic.twitter.com/fnuWuesKEL

— VICE Sports (@VICESports) December 14, 2016

https://twitter.com/nickjacksonyb/status/809066640327340032

https://twitter.com/mattjackson13/status/809072786769526784

– WWE has announced Tajiri is in fact returning to the company soon. He’ll be joining the Cruiserweight division and will compete on 205 Live.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/808873425389223936

– WWE presents Tribute To The Troops tonight on USA, but first, here you can see Jason Jordan “Tased By The Troops” –

https://www.instagram.com/p/BN-GM3ijvQ7/

– Radio host Sam Roberts will be part of the WWE Roadblock kickoff show this Sunday. Roberts hosts the popular Sam Roberts Wrestling Podcast. WWE brought in Peter Rosenberg earlier this month for a guest spot on the TLC pre-show. Congrats to Sam Roberts.

Couldn't be happier to announce that I'll be part of the @WWE #Roadblock pre show this Sunday… https://t.co/LbdYnicck5 pic.twitter.com/K6EtKWveLT

— Sam Roberts (@notsam) December 14, 2016

https://twitter.com/catherinekelley/status/809099392074522625

“The Book of Booty: Shake It. Love It. Never Be It” will be released by WWE in April 2017. The hardcover book will feature all three members of The New Day as authors. Here’s the official synopsis of the book, which is now available for pre-order at Amazon.com:

“Multi-time W . . . W . . . E! (WWE) TAG! TEAM! CHAMPIONS! The New Day want you to feel the power!! And now you can with The Book of Booty: Shake It. Love It. Never Be It. From the purveyors of positivity themselves, each chapter of this handy guide will help you embrace the New Day way of life. Even if you’re feeling booty—and who (who?! who?! who?! who?! who?!) has never felt booty? —you’ll be clapping, gyrating, and radiating positivity like the New Day themselves.

Fans will learn:

• The New Day’s official definition of “booty,” and the telltale signs that you or a loved one might be booty
• The proper attire and headwear for the new you
• How to twerk like a man
• What your spirit animal says about you
• How to project positivity

By the time you finish this book, you’ll be a rainbow-gazing, trombone-playing, unicorn-loving soldier of positivity, ready to take on nefarious WWE tag teams with a smile on your face. Pro tip: Eat your Booty O’s every morning for added strength!”

WWE Champion AJ Styles has been pulled from all WWE events until December 26th at Madison Square Garden, where he’s set to defend against John Cena and Dean Ambrose.

Styles did not defend the WWE Championship against James Ellsworth on last night’s SmackDown due to the ankle injury he suffered on 12/4 at TLC while taking a backdrop from Ambrose. The champion has not wrestled since that match.

WWE announced last night that Styles would defend against new #1 contender Dolph Ziggler on the 12/27 SmackDown from Chicago. There’s been no word yet on when Ellsworth will get his shot but it doesn’t look like it will happen in 2016.

With the successful launch of WWE’s new 205 Live series, it’s worth noting that Vince McMahon and Kevin Dunn have been directly running the show. There has been speculation on Triple H running things since he was a driving force behind the Cruiserweight Classic, but that’s not the case. Shortly after the brand split, the ‘different feeling’ of SmackDown Live had a lot of fans wondering who was in charge there, then similar reports came out that Vince was in fact still running both RAW and SmackDown.

Vince has been very hands-on with 205 Live and the cruiserweight talent in an effort to get them to execute his vision for the show, according to PWInsider.com. Triple H likely has some input, but it’s almost entirely a Vince & Dunn production.

A Manhattan federal judge has signed off on a bankruptcy plan for Gawker that includes a $31 million payout to Hulk Hogan. The WWE Hall of Famer is expected to receive the money before the end of 2016.

Gawker was forced into bankruptcy when Hogan tried to collect on a $140 million jury award back in June after Gawker posted video of Hogan having sex with Bubba the Love Sponge’s wife. That award included $60 million for emotional distress, $55 million for economic damages and $25 million in punitive damages.

Gawker attorney Gregg Galardi called the $31 million settlement for Hogan very favorable because it’s just a fraction of the $140 million he was awarded.

For more information, check out the original report at the New York Post.

TNA World Heavyweight Champion Eddie Edwards recently spoke with James Walsh of Interactive Wrestling Radio to promote this week’s Total Nonstop Deletion episode. Edwards will defend his title against Lashley in the first-ever Dome Of Deletion match. Here are some highlights they sent in:

The Total Nonstop Deletion concept:

“I agree with you that it is going to open the eyes of the professional wrestling world. People are going to be watching this all over the world. You don’t want to be the guy who misses it. It is going to be very special and I was lucky enough to be a part of it. There are some really… unique (laughs) things that go down. Everytime the Hardy’s have done one of these, they take it a step further. This is going to be so entertaining, you will be speechless!”

Being the only ROH and TNA Triple Crown Champion:

“It is pretty awesome to be able to look at it and see what I’ve been able to accomplish. We all set goals for ourselves when you get into the pro wrestling business. We all want to be World Champion. In my career, I’ve always tried to pick goals, achieve it, and move on. First of all, get into Ring of Honor, win the Tag Titles, win the TV Title, win the World Title. I was able to accomplish that. I’ve done the same thing in TNA.. Me and Davey, same thing. Win the Tag Titles, win the X Division title, steal the show, and finally I was able to win the Heavyweight Title… Considering all the guys that have been in both companies. It is pretty amazing to put myself, to see my name in those record books. You can’t erase that.”

The TNA climate with all the changes backstage:

“You said tough times backstage… That’s not the case for us. The office stuff is the office stuff. There is nothing that I myself or any of the other boys or girls in the locker room can do about it. We have always had the same mentallity. We’ve always had the same goal. The talent in this locker room is out of this world, top notch. The product that is going on in the ring right now is top notch, top of the world. We’ve tried to put on the best show, the best product that we can and that has never wavered. As for what is going on behind the scenes, rumors are rumors. Sometimes even half-truths aren’t even half-truths, you know what I mean? We just have to go about our business and handle our stuff. The new year is coming up. It is a freshs tart for everyone but especially for TNA with the new ownership coming in. It is going to be starting fresh again and we’re just here to take it to the next level. We just want to prove that we are the best wrestling company in the world right now.”

The Broken Matt Hardy character:

“Amazing. Just amazing. The Hardy’s in general… Matt has reinvented himself time and time again. Not only to stay relevant but to stay on top of the professional wrestling world. Anywhere he goes, people are saying “Delete, Delete, Delete.” I’ve seen people who aren’t even wrestling fans and I’ve seen it pop up on random websites… I’m astonished and amazed by it. The Broken Brilliance. He really IS that! But, it is not just for himself. He wants professional wrestling to succeed. He wants TNA to succeed. I couldn’t find a more giving guy as far as wrestling him and just ideas. You can go and pick his brain, he’s always willing to give his thoughts and ideas on anything. That is such a hard thing to find with guys who, you know, he’s made it! He’s one of the best ever, him and Jeff! For them to be willing to go out there and give back and work as hard as they do is awesome to see. It gives hope to all.”

Why his and Davey Richards’ WWE NXT stint was so short:

“Just the timing. We went down and did a couple week thing down there. They decided to go in a different direction. We were comfortable going in a different direction. We were in talks with TNA at the time so we wanted to go to TNA because we thought that was the best opportunity and WWE was going in a different direction anyway. So, we were happy with the decision that we made.”

If his work ethic and work rate helped get him the World Title opportunity:

“I think so. I think it certainly has played a part in it. When I and Davey got to TNA, we wanted to prove we could wrestle anybody, anywhere, and have a good match. I take pride in being able to work any style, any match, any type of senario… A strong mix of matches. I don’t want every match to be the same. I’ll work as hard as I would in front of 20 people as I would for 20,000. I don’t know what lead to the decision (leading to winning the title) but I’m sure it played a part in it. To say I take pride in it, I know Davey does as well. We want to be known as the work horse, bust our ass, and leave it all in the ring.”

Facing Lashley at Total Nonstop Deletion:

“We talked about different styles. This is not like an X Divison match… This is me going up against a force of nature (laughs) like Lashley. A beast! I’m expecting more of the same. I’m going to get thrown around. I’m going to get beat up a bit. But, I thrive in being the underdog. I know I’m the champion but looking at me and looking at him, it is pretty believable that he could beat me. I’m fine with that. I welcome the challenge. I want that target on my back, being world champion! Going into this match, I’m just looking for a fight. He’s a bit peeved going in. One thing nobody knows about is our Dome of Deletion we’ve got going on. I don’t know how to prepare for that! Lashley doesn’t know how to prepare. There is a ring involved but then there’s also shenanigans! People will be very excited with this show! This is a full 2 hour journey into the mind of the Broken Brilliance! (laughs)”

If Anthem will take TNA “back” to the promised land:

“That is the goal no matter what but especially at this time, with Anthem coming in, it is a new year. It is a fresh start. Everyone has the same goal from the office to the boys and girls, we all want to go out there and kick ass and put on the best product. I think this is a perfect time to ride the momentum of Total Nonstop Deletion and ride that into the new year and just keep going and going. People who have turned there back on TNA and even have rooted against us which I have never been able to understand. This is a new time! This is a new day. There is lots of new talent… Just tune in! Watch Total Nonstop Deletion!”

On Tuesday night, Big E tweeted a photo of Tag Team Champions The New Day, Women’s Champion Sasha Banks and Cruiserweight Champion Rich Swann backstage at SmackDown last night and used a “#BlackExcellence” hashtag.

#BlackExcellence pic.twitter.com/YrnijaTfOY

— Ettore “Big E” Ewen (@WWEBigE) December 14, 2016

Apparently there were some negative reactions to the photo as Kofi Kingston took to Twitlonger this morning and wrote the following in response:

“While much of the feedback has been positive, there has also been a lot of negative response with regard to the picture we posted illustrating Rich, Sasha, Xavier, E, and myself wielding our championship titles. Perhaps this is because many are in question of the motivation behind the post:

It does not come from a place of malice, spite, or gloating. It comes from a place of joy and a place of happiness. We have a very strong sense of pride in being the Black People simultaneously holding championships in WWE. Historically in our nation, there was period in time where this would not have happened, followed by a long period of time where it became possible, but had not actually materialized. Now, we are in the time in which the possibility has become a reality.

Why does this matter?

It matters because even though it is hard for some to fathom, the fact is that there are many people who feel as though it is impossible to attain certain goals because of the color of their skin. This is why we must acknowledge the color of ours in this instance. It is important for people of all races, but particularly people of color, and especially the youth, to see that it is entirely possible to achieve your dreams and aspirations regardless of your race. We are a shining example who want to be a source of motivation for others to believe in themselves and do the same.

Excellence is not the same as supremacy. #BlackExcellence is not meant to be divisive. For even if you do not fall into the specific category, you can still take enjoyment in our pride, because in the biggest picture, in a society that often focuses on the negative aspects of race relations, what has transpired with the 5 of us speaks positively to the progress we’ve made as a nation.”

Big E backed Kofi up, endorsing his defense of the #BlackExcellence photo.

My big brother's wisdom overfloweth. https://t.co/HvRfK1Lzxk

— Ettore “Big E” Ewen (@WWEBigE) December 14, 2016

– Charlotte and Mark Henry will be talking WWE Tribute to the Troops with Jonathan Coachman on ESPN SportsCenter tonight for Off The Top Rope.

– Tonight’s NXT episode will feature Samoa Joe vs. NXT Champion Shinsuke Nakamura in their steel cage match from Australia, plus qualifying matches for the Fatal 4 Way to determine a new #1 contender. The following matches were taped:

• Qualifier: Andrade Almas vs. No Way Jose
• Qualifier: Oney Lorcan vs. Bobby Roode
• Qualifier: Eric Young vs. Tye Dillinger
• Qualifier: Bobby Roode vs. Oney Lorcan
• Peyton Royce vs. Sarah Bridges
• Nakamura vs. Joe inside a Steel Cage

– Baron Corbin won the award for Most Metal Athlete at the Revolver Music Awards last night. He and Corey Graves were representing WWE at the event. Below is Corbin with his award:

I am the most metal athlete @Revolvermag @WWE pic.twitter.com/9XKTJTdpYJ

— Tom (@TomPestock) December 14, 2016

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3L_BDgnKHD4

On the most recent edition of Booker T’s Heated Conversations podcast, WWE Champion AJ Styles talked about the possibility of a “dream match” against Shawn Michaels.

“It’s not up to me to have dream matches,” AJ told Booker. “It’s up to the WWE Universe to have those dream matches and whatever they want, I want to deliver. Now, whether or not Shawn would like to do something like that, that’s totally up to him. I totally respect who he is and what he [has] done for this business. And so, that’s totally in his court.”

Styles had previous said in Sports Illustrated that he wanted to face Michaels at the Royal Rumble. Jim Ross wrote on his blog that based on his conversations with Michaels, he thinks the match is a “long shot” but that Michaels would at least consider a request like that from WWE. “I’d realistically put the odds of this main event happening at less than 50-50 but I’d love to be wrong on this one,” Ross wrote in October.

You can listen to AJ’s entire appearance on WWE Hall of Famer Booker T’s podcast here.

Interesting photo….. is it not? pic.twitter.com/MKgF4XoAF1

— AJ Styles (@AJStylesOrg) October 20, 2016

Zack Ryder reportedly injured his left knee on this week’s episode of SmackDown Live during the tag team battle royal. In a statement to WWE.com, WWE doctor Chris Robinson said Ryder may have suffered an injury to the kneecap or patella.

Ryder will be undergoing an MRI to find out if he’ll be cleared to compete in his scheduled Tag Team Title shot against The Wyatt Family on December 27th. Ryder and Mojo Rawley won their shot at the Tag Titles in Tuesday’s battle royal.

Bittersweet night. Won a battle royal on #SDLive for the #HypeBros to become No. 1 contenders…Injured my knee in the process. MRI tomorrow

— Matt Cardona (@TheMattCardona) December 14, 2016

WWE taped the following tonight from Washington, DC for the 2016 Tribute to the Troops. This airs on the USA Network tomorrow night.

– Lilian Garcia sang the National Anthem

– Mick Foley made Big Cass and Roman Reigns vs. Rusev and Kevin Owens for tonight’s main event after an in-ring segment

– Cesaro and Sheamus defeated Golden Truth, Gallows & Anderson, The Shining Stars to become new #1 contenders to the RAW Tag Team Championships. They face New Day at Roadblock

– Apollo Crews defeated WWE IC Champion The Miz in a non-title match after Miz issued a challenge. Gabriel Iglesias was at ringside with Crews and helped him win

– The Wyatt Family defeated American Alpha and Dolph Ziggler

– Bayley defeated Dana Brooke with Charlotte at ringside

– WWE Cruiserweight Champion Rich Swann, Jack Gallagher and TJ Perkins defeated Drew Gulak, Brian Kendrick and Tony Nese

– Cass and Reigns defeated Rusev and Owens

https://twitter.com/TheFosterEmpire/status/808866123194232836

WWE Smackdown (12/13)

This week’s Smackdown opened up with Daniel Bryan, Shane McMahon and James Ellsworth backstage. Ellsworth’s title match was postponed due to Ellsworth being sick. Ellsworth was sneezing relentlessly and Shane sent him home. Shane also revealed that Smackdown had to find a new #1 contender for the WWE World Championship.

.@WWEDanielBryan to @RealEllsworth: "You're a MESS!"
Ellsworth's title match on #SDLive is postponed due to illness! pic.twitter.com/aj8Ghtngm4

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

Miz TV w/ AJ Styles

The Miz and AJ Styles posed with their titles as the crowd chanted “AJ Styles!”. Styles stated that sooner or later he will destroy James Ellsworth. The Miz and Styles then poked fun at Ellsworth for a bit and then The Miz complimented Styles’ haircut. Styles referred to The Miz as hilarious and said that Miz doesn’t get enough credit for how funny he is. AJ Styles claimed that nobody on Smackdown was on his level. The Miz disagreed and stated that he was above it. The Miz then challenged Styles and the two were about to trade punches but Dean Ambrose and Dolph Ziggler came down to the ring.

Ziggler and The Miz traded punches and then Miz hit the Skull Crushing Finale. Dean Ambrose then laid out Miz with the Dirty Deeds. AJ Styles then circled the ring as Ambrose shouted at him. Ambrose then connected with the Dirty Deeds on Ziggler. The lights went out and Luke Harper appeared in the ring. Harper laid out Ambrose with a Clothesline and then stared Styles down.

Reaction: Awesome way to kick off the show. I wasn’t expecting Luke Harper to show up during this segment but I’m glad he did. I’ve always thought Harper was one of the more underrated Superstars on the roster and it was cool to see him show up in a situation like this one.

.@LukeHarperWWE appears, and levels @TheDeanAmbrose!!

"What a CHAOTIC start to #SDLive!" – @MauroRanallo pic.twitter.com/Vt44AR4l6z

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon informed Styles that there will be a Fatal 4-Way match later on in the night to determine the #1 contender for the WWE World Championship. It will be Dean Ambrose vs Dolph Ziggler vs The Miz vs Luke Harper. The winner of that match will face Styles for the title on the December 27th episode of Smackdown.

Natalya vs Carmella

Nikki Bella joined commentary for this match. Before the match began, Natalya grabbed a microphone and once again claimed that it was not her that attacked Nikki at Survivor Series. Carmella got the upper hand early in the match and Smackdown went to a commercial break. When Smackdown returned, Natalya was in control and was accusing Carmella of being a liar while beating her down. Carmella fought back and connected with a Hurricanrana and a Clothesline.

Carmella stomped Natalya in the corner and then moonwalked around the ring. Natalya went for the Sharpshooter but Carmella blocked it. Carmella then rolled out of the ring and Natalya connected with a Dropkick. Natalya and Nikki had a stare down outside the ring. Natalya continued to claim that it wasn’t her that attacked Nikki as she got back in the ring. Carmella then rolled Natalya up for the victory. After the match, Natalya continued to claim that she didn’t attack Nikki at Survivor Series. Nikki didn’t acknowledge Natalya and walked backstage.

Winner: Carmella

With a surprise small package, @CarmellaWWE defeats @NatByNature, who is STILL apologizing to Nikki @BellaTwins at ringside. #SDLive pic.twitter.com/mihz4ibEza

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

It was announced that John Cena will be returning to Smackdown in two weeks.

Gabriel Iglesias was talking to Apollo Crews backstage. The Miz and Maryse interrupted and Maryse told Iglesias to shut up. Gabriel Iglesias stated that The Miz’s outfit looked like it came from another planet and suggested that it came from Uranus. The Miz and Maryse then fake laughed. Miz then called referred to Apollo Crews as “Creed” and claimed that he had to go get ready for the Fatal 4-Way match.

.@FluffyGuy: "What planet did you get that outfit from, @MikeTheMiz? … Uranus?"@MikeTheMiz: "What are you? 12?" #SDLive pic.twitter.com/uNmyiMyXGJ

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) December 14, 2016

Battle Royal To Determine #1 Contenders For Smackdown Tag Team Championships

Simon Gotch was eliminated immediately. Viktor and Chad Gable were the next two eliminated. Heath Slater accidentally eliminated Rhyno and Smackdown went to a commercial break.Fandango eliminated Mojo Rawley. Jason Jordan eliminated Aiden English. Heath Slater eliminated Fandango. Jason Jordan went crazy and hit everyone with a Spear. Jason Jordan was then eliminated by Konnor and Tyler Breeze. Konnor eliminated Heath Slater. Zack Ryder eliminated Konnor and Tyler Breeze for the victory.

Winners & #1 Contenders For The Smackdown Tag Team Championships: Hype Bros

Reaction: This was an entertaining Battle Royal. The Hype Bros is an interesting choice. I thought it was finally time for The Ascension to win a noteworthy match and challenge for the Tag Team Championships but that is not the case. It is extremely unlikely that the Hype Bros will defeat the Wyatt Family. The teams are the polar opposite of each other so that could lead to some entertaining segments leading up to their title match.

.@ZackRyder forces @KonnorWWE over the top rope! The #HypeBros are new #1Contender to the #WyattFamily's Tag Titles! #SDLive #BattleRoyal pic.twitter.com/SYotICZuFb

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

Alexa Bliss vs Deonna Purrazzo

Alexa Bliss mocked Purrazzo before the match and referred to her as “Jane Ellsworth”. The match never started because Bliss attacked Purrazzo. Becky Lynch then came down to the ring and challenged Bliss to a match for her Women’s Championship. Alexa Bliss agreed to the match but stated that it wouldn’t happen tonight. Alexa Bliss started to walk away but Shane McMahon came out and met her halfway up the entrance ramp. Shane McMahon stated that the Smackdown Women’s Championship match will happen right now and Alexa Bliss went crazy.

"Unlike @BeckyLynchWWE, I don't DO charity cases! Who do you think you are? JANE Ellsworth?" – @AlexaBliss_WWE #SDLive pic.twitter.com/qjSuZa0Ids

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

Smackdown Women’s Championship Match: Alexa Bliss (c) vs Becky Lynch

Becky Lynch went for the Dis-Arm-Her right away but Bliss was able to avoid it. Lynch continued to maintain control of the match for the next few minutes. Bliss tried to battle back but Lynch connected with several Clotheslines to stop her momentum. Becky was able to lock in the Dis-Arm-Her but Alexa was too close to the ropes and the hold was broken.

The action spilled outside the ring and Becky hit a forearm on Alexa after jumping off of the steel steps. Becky chased Alexa around and Bliss slid out of the ring and pretended to injure her knee. Referee Charles Robinson counted out Bliss and Becky won the match. After the match, Becky tried to attack Alexa but Bliss fought back. Once again, Becky got the upper hand and Alexa retreated backstage. Since the match ended in a countout, Alexa Bliss remains the Smackdown Women’s Champion.

Winner via Countout: Becky Lynch

Reaction: The title match itself was short but it served a purpose. Becky Lynch will obviously get another oppurtunity at the Smackdown Women’s Championship sometime soon. Alexa Bliss continues to be terrific on the microphone and is a great heel in the ring as well. Bliss will most likely spend most of her title reign trying to keep the title at all costs. Faking an injury during a match she is losing is a good way to get the crowd annoyed with Bliss even more than they already are. Bliss did defeat Lynch clean in their Tables match at TLC. It will be interesting to see if Bliss picks up another clean victory in their rematch in the future or if Bliss will cheat to retain her title. My only hope for that match is that Becky Lynch does not recapture the title.

I do not want this to turn into the hot potato situation that is happening with the Raw Women’s Championship between Sasha Banks and Charlotte. The feud between Sasha and Charlotte has had several excellent matches but the constant changing hands of the title has made it impossible to really get invested in the feud. Hopefully, Becky Lynch has to jump through a bunch of hoops to recapture the Smackdown Women’s Championship. If that happens, it will make the moment much better when she finally wins it back. The issue I have with the Women’s division on both Raw and Smackdown is that there is only two Superstars fighting for the belts on both shows. I would much rather see a bunch of Superstars battling for an oppurtunity at the title rather than the same match over and over again.

Due to the knee injury, @BeckyLynchWWE takes a countout victory over @AlexaBliss_WWE, but she wants MORE! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/5meIIBkHLN

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

Fatal 4-Way To Determine The #1 Contender To The WWE World Championship: Dean Ambrose vs The Miz vs Dolph Ziggler vs Luke Harper

It was revealed earlier in the night that if anyone interferes it will result in an elimination. Thus, if Maryse or the Wyatts interfere it would cause either The Miz or Luke Harper to be eliminated from the match. AJ Styles joined commentary for the match.

The match started out with Luke Harper taking out Dean Ambrose and Ziggler while The Miz looked on with a horrified look on his face. The Miz then gave Harper a round of applause and tried to form an alliance with Harper. The Miz tried to shake Harper’s hand but got a right hand to the face instead. Ambrose and Ziggler teamed up for a brief moment to knock Harper out of the ring. Ambrose then charged at Miz but Miz ducked and Ambrose went tumbling out of the ring.

The Miz then mocked Daniel Bryan in the ring by doing the “yes!” chant and Daniel Bryan’s kicks in the ring on Ziggler. The Miz followed it up with two corner Dropkicks on Ziggler. The Miz went for a third but Ambrose got back in the ring and hit a Running Bulldog on The Miz. Harper cleaned out Ambrose with a gigantic boot to the face outside the ring. Back in ring, Harper continued to be dominant and beatdown Ziggler in the corner.

Harper took a break from beating the hell out of Ziggler to get out of the ring and launch Ambrose into the barricade. Dean Ambrose got back into the ring and tried to hit the Dirty Deeds on Harper but Ziggler greeted Ambrose with a Superkick. Harper then laid out Ziggler and Ambrose connected with a Lunatic Lariat on Harper. All three men were down and The Miz unsuccessfully tried to pin Harper and Ziggler. The Miz then tried to pin Ambrose but Dean rolled him up and The Miz was first Superstar eliminated.

When Smackdown returned from a commercial break, Luke Harper was outside the ring and Ambrose and Ziggler were battling in the ring. Ambrose connected with a Backbreaker on Ziggler and went for the pinfall but Ziggler kicked out at two. Ambrose followed it up with a Suplex and another unsuccessful pinfall. Ambrose climbed to the top turnbuckle but Ziggler joined him there. Harper got back into the ring and dragged Ziggler off of the turnbuckle. Ziggler then hit a Zig Zag on Harper and Ambrose launched off of the top rope and connected with a Clothesline.

Ambrose and Ziggler slammed into each other and both Superstars fell to the mat. Harper got back up and hit a Sidewalk Slam on Ambrose. Harper then connected with a Powerbomb on Ziggler. Dolph hit Harper with a Superkick and Ambrose followed it up with a Dirty Deeds to Harper. Ambrose then pinned Harper and Luke Harper was the second Superstar eliminated.

It was down to Ziggler and Ambrose in the ring. Ziggler connected with a couple of Clotheslines and followed it up with a Stinger Splash in the corner. Ambrose rolled onto the ring apron and Ziggler joined him there. Ambrose catapulted Ziggler face first into the LED ring post. Back in the ring, Ambrose climbed to the top turnbuckle but Ziggler got up and slammed Ambrose to the mat. Both men then got up and hit simultaneous Clotheslines on each other.

The Miz then showed up again outside the ring. Ziggler chased him around the ring and Ambrose connected with a Suicide Dive on The Miz. Ziggler then hit a Superkick on The Miz. Ambrose tried to get back into the ring but The Miz held him back. Ambrose threw Miz into the barricade and Ambrose went to get back into the ring. As Ambrose got into the ring, Ziggler hit a Superkick and eliminated Ambrose via a pinfall.

Winner & #1 Contender For The WWE World Championship: Dolph Ziggler

SUPERKICK to the @MikeTheMiz-distracted @TheDeanAmbrose!! ONE TWO THREE!! @HEELZiggler is the NEW #1Contender for @AJStylesOrg! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/jEohQmwHWR

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

Reaction: The Fatal 4-Way was very good. Dolph Ziggler is an interesting choice. The ending was really bizarre because it appeared that The Miz was trying to prevent Ambrose from winning. This may wind up leading to Ambrose challenging The Miz for the Intercontinental Championship. AJ Styles and Dolph Ziggler will no doubt have a terrific match for the WWE World Championship. It would be a massive upset if Ziggler defeated Styles for the title.

205 Live (12/13)

Drew Gulak vs Jack Gallagher

This match started out back and forth. Jack Gallagher tied Gulak in a knot in the middle of the ring. Gallagher admired his work and then kicked Gulak and the knot was broken. Gulak got up an connected with a kick to the face on Gallagher. Gulak continued the assault by whipping Gallagher down to the mat and his head hit the bottom rope. Gulak followed it up with a Neckbreaker. Gallagher battled back and connected with a headbutt on Gulak. Gallagher then hit a Dropkick in the corner on Gulak for the victory.

Winner: Jack Gallagher

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/808871642336088065

TJ Perkins and Rich Swann had a conversation backstage. Perkins stated that he was friends with Swann but he is determined to defeat him tonight. Perkins also claimed that he will recapture the Cruiserweight Championship at WWE Roadblock: End of the Line.

Jack Gallagher and Ariya Daivari had a confrontation backstage. Gallagher apologized to Daivari for attacking him on Monday Night Raw. Gallagher then stated that he was retaliating for the attack on his knee that he was subjected to at the hands of Daivari. Being the extraordinary gentleman that he is, Gallagher offered a truce but Daivari rejected it. Daivari claimed that he was going to get even with Gallagher and walked away.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/808873807163183104

Mustafa Ali vs Lince Dorado

The match started out back and forth. Dorado went to jump onto Ali in the corner but Ali moved out of the way and kicked Dorado in the face. Ali continued to control the match and applied a Chinlock in the middle of the ring. Dorado battled back and landed a Dropkick to the back of the head of Ali and Mustafa went tumbling into the corner. Both Superstars then climbed to the top rope and Dorado hit a Frankensteiner that sent Dorado flying to the mat. Ali sent Dorado into the ropes but Dorado bounced off of them and hit a Stunner on Ali. Dorado then hit a massive Moonsault on Mustafa Ali outside the ring. Dorado’s head bounced off of the entrance ramp and both Superstars were counted out.

After the match, Lince Dorado tried to shake the hand of Mustafa Ali. Mustafa rejected the gesture and punched Dorado in the face. Dorado battled back and kicked Ali in the face. The segment ended with Ali retreating to the back and Dorado standing tall in the ring.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/808875201819643904

Noam Dar bumped into Alicia Fox backstage. Alicia stated that she was flattered that Dar dedicated a match to her but she informed Dar that she had a boyfriend (Cedric Alexander). Dar then smiled and said that he will see Alicia Fox around. Dar then walked away and Alicia Fox had a confused look on her face.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/808876128446201856

TJ Perkins vs Rich Swann

Brian Kendrick joined commentary for the match. The match started out back and forth. Both Perkins and Swann went for a Dropkick at the same time and neither connected. Swann then landed a Dropkick and went for a pinfall but Perkins kicked out at two. Swann then landed a Russian Leg Sweep and followed it up with a Splash onto Perkins. TJ fell to the outside of the ring and Swann went for a Moonsault but Perkins got out of the way. Swann landed on his feet and appeared to tweak his knee. Swann continued to sell the knee injury and Perkins took control of the match.

Perkins connected with a couple of Suplexes in the ring and went for the pin but Swann powered out at two. Perkins and Swann then traded punches but TJ hit a Dropkick to Swann’s injured knee. Swann responded by connecting with a kick to the head of TJ Perkins. Swann and Perkins got back to their feet and traded chops in the ring. Swann landed a Tiger Bomb on Perkins and went for the pin but TJ kicked out. Swann went for the standing 450 Splash but Swann’s knee prevented him from doing so. Perkins then applied the Knee Bar on Swann for the submission victory.

After the match, Brian Kendrick walked down to the ring and applauded both Perkins and Swann. Kendrick extended his hand to Swann but Swann slapped it away. Perkins then landed a Superkick on Kendrick and Brian fell out of the ring. Perkins and Swann then had a stare down to end the show.

Winner: TJ Perkins

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/808879823951044609

Reaction: The wrestling on 205 Live is excellent. The problem with the show has been that the crowd has been absolutely dead. This week’s show was taped before Monday Night Raw and that made a huge difference. The crowd was actually making noise and their may have been some crowd noise pumped in during the backstage segments. I’m not sure if it is possible, but I think 205 Live is better off being a pre-taped show, whether that be before Raw or Smackdown. The crowd is more energetic and people are more willing to give the show a chance. It is difficult for a crowd to get into 205 Live when they just watched a show that featured some of the biggest stars the WWE has to offer. Rich Swann will be defending his Cruiserweight Championship in a Triple Threat Match against TJ Perkins and Brian Kendrick. I’m looking forward to that match and have enjoyed the storyline leading up to it. I legitimately have no clue who is going to win that match and that is a good thing. Kendrick is clearly the most recognizable of the three but Swann is very charismatic. Perkins is also an excellent performer in the ring. I’m looking forward to see how things play out at WWE Roadblock: End of the Line this Sunday.

What did you think of this week’s episodes of Smackdown and 205 Live? Let us know in the comments below.

The Hype Bros have earned a shot against WWE SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Wyatt Family by defeating Breezango, The Vaudevillains, American Alpha, The Ascension and Rhyno & Heath Slater in a Battle Royal on tonight’s show.

WWE has not announced when Zack Ryder and Mojo Rawley will get their shot against Bray Wyatt and Randy Orton but we will let you know when it’s confirmed.

Below is video from tonight’s match:

Get HYPED because the #HypeBros @MojoRawleyWWE and @ZackRyder are the NEW No. 1 Contenders for the #SDLive Tag Team Championships! pic.twitter.com/SSu156H8KT

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

Cesaro and Sheamus are the new #1 contenders to RAW Tag Team Champions The New Day after winning a Fatal 4 Way over Gallows & Anderson, The Shining Stars and Golden Truth at tonight’s WWE Tribute to the Troops tapings. They will get their shot at Sunday’s Roadblock: End of the Line PPV in Pittsburgh.

Below is the updated Roadblock card:

– WWE Universal Champion Kevin Owens defends against WWE US Champion Roman Reigns

– RAW Women’s Champion Sasha Banks defends against Charlotte in an Iron Man Match

– RAW Tag Team Champions The New Day defend against Sheamus and Cesaro

– Rich Swann defends the WWE Cruiserweight Championship against Brian Kendrick and TJ Perkins

– Seth Rollins takes on Chris Jericho

– Sami Zayn goes up against Braun Strowman with a 10-minute time limit

– Big Cass battles Rusev on the pre-show

WWE has announced that John Cena will make his TV return on the final SmackDown of the year, from Chicago on December 27th.

The 15-time world champion has been away filming Fox reality competition American Grit and a new movie due out in March, The Wall (Trailer).

Prior to his hiatus, Cena had his sights set on Ric Flair’s record of 16 World Championships. It will be interesting to see if Cena returns to the WWE Championship picture upon his return.

IN TWO WEEKS: @JohnCena RETURNS to @WWE #SDLive, LIVE from Chicago! pic.twitter.com/i9VZ1qcqaH

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

This week’s episode of WWE SmackDown aired live from the Verizon Center in Washington, DC.

– SmackDown opens up with Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan backstage watching a replay of last week’s main event. Ellsworth walks on screen sneezing and coughing, and McMahon and Bryan start cutting promos on him. Shane says Ellsworth can’t compete in his current condition, as he can’t stop sneezing and blowing his nose.

– The Miz and Maryse are in the ring, and they welcome out AJ Styles for a Miz TV interview. They sit down in the ring and crack jokes on Ellsworth. AJ says that sooner or later, he’s going to finally destroy Ellsworth in the middle of the ring. The Miz says that because he’s beaten people who beat AJ, that he’s better than AJ. They get in each others faces until Dean Ambrose interrupts. Dolph Ziggler interrupts next, and a brawl breaks out. AJ rolls out of the ring, then Ambrose cleans house and hits the Dirty Deeds on both The Miz and Ziggler. The Wyatt Family graphic flashes across the screen, then Luke Harper comes out of nowhere and attacks Ambrose from behind. Harper stares down AJ as The Champ That Runs The Camp heads backstage.

.@LukeHarperWWE appears, and levels @TheDeanAmbrose!!

"What a CHAOTIC start to #SDLive!" – @MauroRanallo https://t.co/Vt44AR4l6z

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

– AJ Styles approaches Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon backstage and demands protection, because there are so many wrestlers coming after him. Bryan and McMahon say that there will be a Fatal Four-Way match between Miz, Ziggler, Ambrose, and Harper to determine who will face AJ for the World Title on the last SmackDwn of 2016.

– Carmella def. Natalya: Nikki Bella is on commentary for this one, and before the match Natalya tries to convince her that she wasn’t her mystery attacker at Survivor Series. After a couple minutes of competitive action in the ring, things go to the outside. Natalya tries to convince Nikki again that she didn’t attack her, and when Carmella attempts to clothesline Nikki from behind, Natalya shoves Nikki out of the way for the save. Back in the ring, Carmella rolls up Natalya in a small package for the win.

– Comedian Gabriel Iglesias is backstage talking to Apollo Crews, when Maryse interrupts and starts insulting Iglesias. The Miz trades insults with Gabriel and Crews, but he loses the war of words and walks away.

– Tag Team Battle Royal: American Alpha, The Hype Bros, The Vaudevillains, Slater & Rhyno, The Ascension, and Breezango are in this tone. Simon Gotch gets eliminated first, but both members need to be eliminated separately. After some slow action in the opening minutes, Viktor, Chad Gable, and Rhyno get eliminated in quick succession. Rhyno’s elimination came when Slater accidentally bumped him off the apron. Breeze eliminates Mojo, Jordan eliminates English, then Slater eliminates Fandango. Jordan hits spears on everyone left in the ring, then starts hitting overhead suplexes. Konnor picks up Jordan to throw him over but they struggle, then Breeze comes off the top with a dropkick that sends Jordan to the floor for the elimination. The final four are Konnor, Breeze, Slater, and Ryder. Konnor throws Slater to the outside with authority, then he lays out Ryder and Breeze with clotheslines. Ryder hits a missile dropkick on Breeze, then Konnor hits a spear on Breeze that sends him to the outside for the elimination. Konnor goes for a powerbomb on Ryder, but Ryder reverses it into a hurricanrana that sends Konnor to the outside. Ryder wins the match for The Hype Bros to earn them a shot at The Wyatt Family’s Tag Team Titles.

.@KonnorWWE sends @HeathSlaterOMRB out of the #BattleRoyal the hard way, and almost into the front row! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/LypNB2Ks7d

— WWE (@WWE) December 14, 2016

– Becky Lynch def. Alexa Bliss (c) via Count Out: Alexa was originally scheduled to face an unnamed jobber, but she declined, saying she “doesn’t do charity,” then beat down the jobber. Becky Lynch interrupts, then Shane McMahon sets up this title match between the two. Their offense was easily matched early on, until Becky hits a flying forearm in the corner and follows up with the Dis-arm-her. Alexa reaches the ropes quickly, but rolls to the outside and is selling her arm. Becky follows her out and drops her with a forearm. Alexa is now selling her knee, and Mauro says it appears she’s injured. Alexa stays at ringside for the referee’s entire ten count, so even though she loses she retains the title. Becky attacks Alexa at ringside and throws her back in the ring. Alexa starts fighting back and reveals that her knee isn’t really injured. Becky gets the best of her and hits a powerslam then starts pummeling her. Alexa rolls to the outside and retreats to the back with her title belt.

– Dean Ambrose vs. Dolph Ziggler vs. Luke Harper vs. The Miz: The winner of this elimination match gets a shot at AJ Styles’ World Championship on the December 27th edition of SmackDown. After the four participants enter, The Phenomenal One comes out to join the commentary team at ringside. The bell rings and Luke Harper starts off by absolutely cleaning house and laying out everyone. Ambrose rolls outside and Harper comes flying at him with a suicide dive. Harper rolls back inside and stares down The Miz. The Miz clips for Harper and tells him he did a good job, and tries to team up with Harper. Instead of shaking Miz’s hand, he slaps him across the face and hits a Michinoku Driver for a 2 count. Ambrose and Ziggler take turns hitting dropkicks on Harper to finally take him down. The Miz gets some offense in on both Ziggler and Ambrose. He hits the “Yes kicks” on Ziggler, then hits some running dropkicks on him. Ambrose intercepts one of the clotheslines, and hits a running bulldog on Miz. Ambrose attempts a suicide dive on Harper at ringside, but Harper blocks it and hits a big boot. Back in the ring, Harper hits a backbreaker on Ziggler then delivers a chop to the chest. Harper drops The Miz at ringside, then puts Ziggler in the Torture Rack. Ambrose comes in and breaks it up, then drops Harper with a lariat and both men are down. The Miz comes in the ring and pins Harper for a 2 count, then Ambrose rolls up The Miz in a small package for the three count to eliminate The Miz. It’s now down to Ambrose, Harper, and Ziggler. Ambrose hits some suplexes and backbreaker on Ziggler for a near-fall. Harper hits a big boot on Ambrose, then a superkick on Ziggler. He hits a spinning side walk slam on Ambrose for a two count, then a sit out powerbomb on Ziggler for another two count. Harper goes for a splash on Ziggler, but Ziggler blocks it with a superkick, then Ambrose hits a Dirty Deeds on Harper to eliminate him. We’re down to Ambrose and Ziggler. Ambrose takes Ziggler out to the apron then slingshots him into the ring post. Ziggler comes back with an avalanche facebuster off the top rope into the ring, and both men are down. The Miz makes his way to ringside and distracts both men. Ambrose drops Miz with a suicide dive, then Ziggler drops him again with a superkick. Ambrose throws Ziggler into the ring post, then back in the ring. Before Ambrose can get back in the ring, The Miz grabs him by the foot. Ziggler recovers by the time Ambrose gets into the ring, and he hits the superkick on Ambrose for the win. Ziggler will have a shot at AJ’s World Title on December 27th.

"You applaud other people. I applaud that. That's the GREATNESS of @MikeTheMiz!" – @JCLayfield #SDLive #1Contender pic.twitter.com/v0Vb76Of38

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) December 14, 2016

This week’s WWE RAW on the USA Network drew 2.758 million viewers, down from last week’s 2.976 million viewers.

The show featured The New Day retaining their Tag Team Championships in the main event over Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins and Chris Jericho & Kevin Owens, plus the final build for the Roadblock PPV.

Here’s the hourly breakdown, courtesy of Showbuzzdaily:

• Hour 1: 2.929 million viewers
• Hour 2: 2.713 million viewers
• Hour 3: 2.632 million viewers

RAW was #7 on cable and #5 in the 18-49 demographic on cable this week.

New Japan Pro Wrestling’s Wrestle Kingdom 11 is coming to American cable television just a week after it airs on pay-per-view. The show takes place on January 4th from the Tokyo Dome.

Jim Ross appeared on Wrestling Observer Live on Tuesday and announced that matches from WK11 will air on ASX TV over the course of 4 weeks starting January 13th. IWGP Champion Kazuchika Okada vs. Kenny Omega will air the first week and IC Champion Naito vs. Tanahashi airs the following week, with additional programming information coming soon.

Ross also announced that the weekly NJPW show on AXS TV has been renewed for 50+ episodes in 2017. The show, which is hosted by JR and Josh Barnett, is moving to 8pm (EST) on Friday nights.

• Complete Card For NJPW WrestleKingdom 11

WWE Hall of Famer Booker T. Huffman has formally announced his bid to become the Mayor of Houston, Texas by 2020.

“My love for our city and my desire to be a positive change agent for Houston is not new, in fact, it has been a significant motivator in my life for decades,” he declared. “After losing my father before my first birthday and my mother at the age of thirteen, I was given no choice but to fight for survival.”

Booker T vows to fight as hard for Houstonians as he’s fought for himself and his family over the last 30 years.

Additional announcements will be coming in the weeks and months ahead regarding his campaign and his team.

You can read the full statement below:

I am pleased to announce that I am running for Mayor of Houston. pic.twitter.com/cWI8LiHzOH

— Booker T. Huffman (@BookerT5x) December 13, 2016

Tonight’s SmackDown Live will feature a tag team battle royal to determine the #1 contenders to SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Wyatt Family. Participating teams include:

• Heath Slater & Rhyno
• American Alpha
• The Hype Bros
• Breezango
• The Vaudevillains
• The Ascension
• The Usos

Join us here later tonight for our weekly SmackDown Live Results & Discussion.

BREAKING: The No. 1 Contenders for the #SDLive #TagTeamChampionship will be determined TONIGHT in a #BattleRoyal! https://t.co/JIdjyn5w5x pic.twitter.com/eLXyCVBgMf

— WWE (@WWE) December 13, 2016