Archive for November, 2017

What Happened After RAW, Sonya Deville & Mandy Rose On Their RAW Debuts, Asuka

– Tonight’s WWE RAW saw Asuka keep her undefeated streak going with a win over Dana Brooke. Below is post-show video of Asuka talking to Mike Rome. The Empress of Tomorrow thanks Dana for keeping her undefeated.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6U-lgFNdagY?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– There was no dark main event after tonight’s RAW in Houston but The Miz did get put through a table by new WWE Intercontinental Champion Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose.

– As noted, tonight’s RAW also saw Paige make her return. She brought WWE NXT Superstars Sonya Deville and Mandy Rose with her and they beat down Sasha Banks, Bayley, Mickie James and later RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss. Mandy and Sonya tweeted the following on their main roster debuts:

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , , .

Roman Reigns Wins IC Title, What’s Next for The Miz

Roman Reigns defeated The Miz in the main event of Monday’s RAW from Houston to become the new WWE Intercontinental Champion.

This is Reigns’ first run with the WWE Intercontinental Title. Miz won the title back at the June 4th Extreme Rules pay-per-view with a win over Dean Ambrose.

The reason for The Miz dropping the IC title is that he’ll be taking time off soon to film another movie. No word yet on what movie he’ll be filming, but Miz has starred in the past 3 installments of WWE Studios’ The Marine franchise, so that’s certainly a possibility.

After Monday’s RAW went off the air, WWE filmed an angle that saw The Shield triple powerbomb Miz through the announcer’s table. This was done to write him off television for the foreseeable future.

The Miz is not expected back on television until after his new movie projects finishes shooting. During his time away from WWE, he’ll also be able to spend time with his pregnant wife, Maryse.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , .

7 Takeaways From WWE RAW (11/20)

The November 20th episode of WWE RAW aired live from Houston, Texas. It was the first episode of RAW following WWE Survivor Series 2017. Here are 7 takeaways from this week’s episode of RAW:

Triple H Backed Down From Strowman

RAW kicked off this week with Stephanie McMahon bragging about RAW’s victory last night at Survivor Series. Stephanie issued Kurt Angle that he will keep his job and then introduced her husband, Triple H. Last night at Survivor Series, Triple H Pedigreed Kurt Angle, but still won the 5-on-5 Elimination match for Team RAW.

Triple H posed in the ring for a moment but RAW GM Kurt Angle immediately interrupted and stormed down to the ring. Angle got right in Triple H’s face and told him to take this job and shove it if he ever attacks him from behind again. Angle told Triple H that he will be coming after him.

Jason Jordan then came down to the ring and challenged Triple H to a match. Stephanie McMahon said that Triple H would make a mockery of Jason Jordan and added that Triple H does not fear anyone in the locker room. Braun Strowman’s music hit and he marched to the ring and got right in Triple H’s face.

Triple H backed away and exited the ring as the crowd chanted “you’re a coward!”. Stephanie McMahon announced that Jason Jordan and Braun Strowman will have a match tonight and Strowman approached Jason Jordan but Kurt Angle separated the two Superstars.

I am already dreading RAW starting off with Stephanie McMahon and Kurt Angle every week while this storyline develops. I thought Jason Jordan would show up at Survivor Series and attack Triple H, instead he waited until the night after to challenge him. I’m fully expecting Jason Jordan to get absolutely destroyed by Braun Strowman tonight, unless someone shows up and ruins it.

Balor & Joe Need Something To Fight For

Samoa Joe and Finn Balor wrestled each other again tonight on RAW. Balor controlled the match early and connected with a flip onto Joe outside the ring as RAW went to a commercial break. When RAW returned, Joe was in control and hit Balor with a massive right hand.

Balor responded with an overhead kick and both Superstars fell to the canvas. Finn connected with a Dropkick and then threw Joe out of the ring. Balor followed it up with a Dropkick in between the ropes and then tried to kick Joe in the face on the ring apron but Joe caught his foot and slammed him face-first to the ring apron. Joe then sprinted and leaped through the ropes and connected with a right hand.

The action returned to the ring and Joe hit Balor with a chop. Finn connected with a Slingblade and went for a Dropkick but Joe avoided it and hit Balor with a Senton for a two count. Joe applied the Coquina Clutch but Balor rolled through and hit a Dropkick on Joe in the corner. Balor then climbed to the top rope but Joe grabbed him and locked in the Coquina Clutch in the middle of the ring. Finn Balor refused to tap out but wound up passing out to the Coquina Clutch.

Balor and Joe had a very good match tonight, but the crowd wasn’t all that into it. These two Superstars obviously have unreal chemistry in the ring, so why not give them something to fight for? The Intercontinental Championship wound up being a prominent part of tonight’s show. I wouldn’t mind seeing Balor and Joe in the hunt for that title in the near future.

Asuka Dominated Again

Dana Brooke had a vignette before her match with Asuka. Brooke claimed that Asuka had holes in her game, even though Asuka hasn’t lost a match in two years. Asuka tied Brooke up on the ropes and then knocked her to the floor.

Asuka mocked Dana Brooke’s poses in the ring and Dana got pissed off. Dana slammed on the ring apron and then charged towards Asuka. Dana got in some offense and started mocking Asuka. Dana slapped Asuka in the face and that caused Asuka to go crazy. Asuka connected with a flurry of kicks and then booted Brooke in the face for the pinfall victory.

Asuka once again dominated on RAW after leading the women’s team to victory last night at Survivor Series. It makes you wonder why WWE didn’t book Asuka like this initially. She really struggled with Emma originally and then WWE released Emma from the company. Asuka’s main roster debut was underwhelming but I’ve enjoyed how she is being booked recently. She should continue to win matches easily until a legitimate opponent arrives.

Paige Returned With Some Friends From NXT

RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss came down to the ring and said that she has been reading all the tweets from fans saying that she had a great match last night with Charlotte. Bliss claimed that the only reason Charlotte won is because she got lucky.

Bliss stated that 2017 has been the year of Alexa Bliss and added that she is still the Goddess of WWE. Mickie James then came down to the ring and once again referred to Bliss as “biscuit butt”. Mickie added that she wants the RAW Women’s Championship and Bliss laughed in her face.

Bayley then interrupted and said that she agreed with Alexa about this being her year. Bayley claimed that she was going to take the RAW Women’s Championship from Bliss. Sasha Banks and Alicia Fox also interrupted and said that they deserved a shot at the RAW Women’s Championship.

Alexa stated that not one of them deserve a shot at the RAW Women’s Championship and started walking away. Kurt Angle announced that a Fatal 4-Way would take place to determine the next #1 contender between Mickie James, Bayley, Sasha Banks and Alicia Fox.

Paige finally made her return and the crowd chanted “welcome back!”. Paige said that she didn’t come alone and Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville attacked Sasha Banks from behind. Paige, Rose and Deville then beatdown Bayley and Mickie James. Alicia Fox ran away. Paige then planted Bayley in the ring and posed with Mandy Rose and Deville.

Paige, Rose and Deville were then interviewed backstage. RAW Women’s Alexa Bliss interrupted and congratulated them. Bliss introduced herself to Deville and Rose. They didn’t respond and then Paige kicked Bliss in the mid-section. The trio beatdown Bliss and left her laying on the concrete backstage.

It is great to see Paige back in the WWE, but I thought was underwhelming. I’ll give it time and see how it works out, but I would have rather seen Billie Kay and Peyton Royce join the main roster with Paige. Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville just seem completely random. The RAW women’s division has been stale for some time, so I’m glad some new talent has joined the roster. I just think there are some better options in NXT to comprise Paige’s entourage.

The Shield Want To Become Champions Again

The Miz came down to the ring and jokingly congratulated Baron Corbin on his victory last night at Survivor Series. The Miz introduced Roman Reigns but Roman’s music didn’t hit. The Miz tried it again and once again nothing. The Shield’s music hit and Reigns, Rollins and Ambrose made their way to the ring through the crowd.

The Shield bragged about their victory over New Day last night at Survivor Series. The Miz complained about not receiving a “thank you” from The Shield. The Miz said that he was the only reason that The Shield reunion tour started. The crowd jokingly chanted “thank you Miz”.

The Miz added that he deserves a check from some of that new Shield merch. Houston then chanted “Miz is awesome” and Reigns commented that he had never heard that chant before. The lights in the arena went out for a moment and then quickly came back on. Reigns pointed out that The Miz should be grateful for The Shield because they won their match last night.

Rollins and Ambrose stated that it is only a matter of time before they get their hands back on the RAW Tag Team Championships. Reigns said that he didn’t want to be the only member of The Shield without a title. Reigns then challenged Reigns for the IC Title. Bo Dallas and Axel said that The Shield needed to go through them first before they get a shot at The Miz. The Shield dismantled Dallas and Axel as The Miz watched on in horror on the entrance ramp. It was then announced that Reigns will face The Miz for the IC Title later tonight.

Ambrose had a great match against Sheamus tonight on RAW and picked up the victory. Rollins and Ambrose will certainly getting their rematch for the RAW Tag Team Championships in the near future and I wouldn’t be surprised if they take them back from The Bar. If Reigns wins the IC Title tonight, that would mean everyone in the group will be a champion and The Shield would once again be a dominant force in WWE.

Kane Rescued Jason Jordan From Braun Strowman

Jason Jordan approached RAW GM Kurt Angle backstage and asked if he was really going to allow the match with Braun Strowman to take place tonight. Jordan said that he was injured and Angle replied that he thought Jordan said he was healthy and that it would look bad if Angle removed him from the match. Jordan ultimately agreed with Angle and stated “I am the only man that can beat Braun Strowman”. You could actually hear the collective laughter in the crowd after Jordan said that.

Braun Strowman was interviewed backstage. He was asked his thoughts on Jason Jordan claiming that he was not afraid of Strowman. Braun said “Good. That makes him different from everyone else, including Triple H” and then walked away.

Jason Jordan was shown later in the night seeking advice from Matt Hardy backstage. Hardy had been in the ring with Strowman before and claimed that Strowman was inhuman. Matt stated that some nights are just not your night and patted Jordan on the back.

Jordan and Braun Strowman had their match at the beginning of the third hour of RAW. Jordan slapped Strowman in the face and then ran away from him. Jordan tweaked his knee injury and Strowman launched him across the ring. Jordan rolled out of the ring and started limping towards the entrance ramp.

Kane then appeared from behind Strowman with a chair and attacked him. Kane bashed Strowman against the steel steps with the chair up against Braun’s throat. Kane exited backstage and Strowman eventually hobbled up the entrance ramp while having difficulty breathing from the chair strike.

RAW GM Kurt Angle checked on his son following the match. The Miz interrupted and begged Angle to cancel his title defense against Roman Reigns. Kurt Angle declined and told The Miz to head to the ring. Jordan said that he felt like he let his father down tonight. Angle said that Jordan didn’t and Jordan added that Matt Hardy was right, Braun Strowman is a monster among men.

Well, this was completely predictable. Jason Jordan tried to escape up the entrance ramp and Kane attacked Braun Strowman from behind. I can’t get into a feud between Kane and Strowman. It does nothing for Strowman to pick up a victory over Kane right now. I just hope they have a match soon and get this feud over with.

Roman Reigns Won The Intercontinental Championship

The Miz defended his Intercontinental Championship against Roman Reigns in the main event of this week’s episode of RAW. Cole, Booker T and Graves pumped up the fact that Reigns has never held the Intercontinental Championship in his career.

The Miz rolled out of the ring right when the bell rung. Reigns waited for The Miz in the ring as Miz leaned up against the barricade. Reigns chased Miz back into the ring and bashed him in the face with a right hand. Reigns connected with a Powerbomb for a two count as RAW went to a commercial break.

When RAW returned, The Miz was in control of the match. Reigns quickly battled back and connected with three Clotheslines in a row. The crowd chanted “Roman!” as Reigns beatdown The Miz in the corner. Reigns leveled Miz with a big boot and geared up for the Superman Punch in the corner.

The Miz once again rolled out of the ring and Reigns chased him. Roman went for the Superman Punch off the steel steps but Miz was ready for it. Miz booted Reigns in the midsection and then planted him with a DDT. The Miz got back into the ring and Reigns leaped into the ring at the last second. Miz hit another DDT for a two count.

Reigns battled out of a Chin Lock and connected with a big right hand. Miz hit a Neckbreaker and went for the cover but Roman kicked out at two. The Miz hit two Dropkicks in a row and went for a third but Reigns caught him. The Miz went for a roll-up but Reigns kicked out at two. The Miz charged at Reigns in the corner but Roman got out of the way and Miz crashed into the second turnbuckle before falling to the mat.

The Miz once again knocked Reigns to the canvas and connected with the It Kicks. Reigns ducked under one of the kicks and planted Miz with a Samoan Drop for a two count. Roman went for the Superman Punch but Miz tripped up Reigns and then booted him in the face for a two count.

Miz stomped on Reigns in the corner and then shoved his boot in Roman’s face. The Miz connected with a Clothesline and then made his way up to the top rope. The Miz leaped towards Reigns and Roman connected with the Superman Punch while Miz was in midair for a two count. Sheamus and Cesaro then ran towards the ring and distracted Reigns. The Miz planted Reigns with the Skull Crushing Finale for a two count.

Ambrose and Rollins sprinted down to the ring and beatdown Sheamus and Cesaro. Reigns then connected with the Spear for the pinfall victory. Roman Reigns is your new Intercontinental Champion. Ambrose and Rollins got into the ring and celebrated with Roman Reigns in the ring.

The Miz hasn’t done much with the Intercontinental Championship recently, so I guess this will make the title more interesting. I don’t think Reigns will hold onto the title for long, as he is rumored to be facing Brock Lesnar for the Universal Championship at WrestleMania next year. I would have preferred to see the title go on a Superstar that the title could elevate. I would have also liked to see an actual feud that led up to the title change, instead of just giving it to Reigns on an episode of RAW.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE.

PHOTOS & VIDEOS: Paige Returns To RAW With NXT Superstars

Paige made her long-awaited WWE return on tonight’s RAW from Houston, interrupting a Fatal 4 Way to crown a new #1 contender to RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss. The match featured Sasha Banks, Bayley, Mickie James and Alicia Fox but there was no finish.

Paige declared that she was back but she was not alone. She then walked to the ring as WWE NXT Superstars Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville hit the ring to attack the other female Superstars as Paige watched their main roster debuts. Paige joined in and took out Bayley with a RamPaige. Paige stood tall with Sonya and Mandy to end the segment.

Paige later was interviewed by Renee Young but Bliss interrupted her and said Paige doesn’t have to explain herself as the others got what they deserved. Bliss gave Mandy and Sonya props before dismissing Renee. Paige introduced Mandy and Sonya to Bliss before they triple teamed the champion and destroyed her backstage, leaving her laying.

Below are photos and video from the segments:

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , .

Triple H Matches Still Being Teased (Photos), SmackDown Teaser, WWE Main Event Matches

– Below is a preview for this week’s WWE SmackDown from Houston, featuring the fallout from Sunday’s Survivor Series pay-per-view:

– WWE taped the following matches tonight in Houston to air on this week’s Main Event episode:

* Gran Metalik vs. Brian Kendrick
* Apollo Crews vs. Curt Hawkins

– WWE continued teasing Triple H vs. Braun Strowman and Triple H vs. Kurt Angle in the opening segment of tonight’s RAW from Houston. You can see photos & video from the segment below:

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , .

WWE RAW Results & Live Discussion (11/20)

The November 20th edition of WWE RAW was the first show after Survivor Series 2017, and aired live from the Toyota Center in Houston, TX.

– Michael Cole, Corey Graves and Booker T welcome us to the Toyota Center again tonight for RAW.

– RAW commissioner Stephanie McMahon comes out to the ring to kick off RAW. She discusses the happenings at last night’s Survivor Series pay-per-view, and says Kurt Angle’s job is secure because Shane was defeated. She then brings out her husband, Triple H, to congratulate him on the win. Before Triple H can say anything, Kurt Angle interrupts. Kurt gets in the ring right in Triple H’s face, and says he doesn’t care that much about this job — if Triple H ever screws him like that again, the Olympic gold medalist is coming for his ass. Stephanie warns Kurt, and then Jason Jordan interrupts. Jordan is not happy about Triple H turning on his father last night and giving him a Pedigree. Jordan wants The Game tonight, but Triple H declines. Jordan says he’s scared, but Stephanie backs up Triple H saying that he isn’t afraid of anyone in that locker room. Those words bring out Braun Strowman. Strowman storms down to the ring and gets in Triple H’s face. Triple H slowly backs off and climbs out of the ring. Stephanie joins her husband as the crowd chants “you’re a coward” at him. Stephanie says since Jordan is so fired up to fight tonight, he can take on Strowman. Strowman and Jordan have a stare-down with Angle in the middle to end the segment.

– Samoa Joe and Finn Balor are backstage getting ready for their match against each other tonight.

– We see some still shots from Survivor Series last night, also at the Toyota Center.

– Finn Balor vs. Samoa Joe: The opening bell sounds and Joe gets right to business with right hands on Balor. He backs Balor in to the corner, but Balor fights back with kicks. Joe shuts Balor down with an elbow to the face, then he works on keeping Finn grounded. Joe sits up on the top turnbuckle, but Balor jumps up and kicks Joe in the head. Joe falls all the way down to the ringside floor, and Balor follows up with a big suicide swanton bomb on him. Back in the ring, Balor tees off on Joe with a series of kicks. Joe manages to drop Balor out to the ringside floor and he immediately follows up with a big suicide dive. Back in the ring, Joe goes for the Rock Bottom but Balor blocks it. Joe fires back with a chop to the chest, and Balor answers with a Sling Blade. Balor goes for a running dropkick, but Joe side-steps it and hits a senton bomb for a two count. Joe locks in the Coquina Clutch but Balor escapes and hits a stomp on Joe. Balor dropkicks Joe into the corner then climbs up top. Joe stops Balor and pulls him down, then locks Balor in the Coquina Clutch again. Balor goes to sleep and Joe wins via TKO.

Winner: Samoa Joe

– We see a video package promoting next year’s WrestleMania.

– Later tonight, Roman Reigns will appear on Miz TV. Up now, Cole introduces a look at last night’s Brock Lesnar vs. AJ Styles match.

– Karl Anderson & Luke Gallows cut a pre-taped promo for WWEShop.com, including a Steve Austin impersonation from Gallows.

– Jason Jordan approaches Kurt Angle and asks if he’s really going to let the match with Strowman go on tonight. Angle says he thought Jordan said he was 100%, but Jordan admits he’s hurt. Angle says he wish Jordan told the truth about his health. Jordan says he’ll go through with the match tonight because he’s the only one on the roster who can beat Braun. He says since Angle beat guys almost a hundred pounds heavier than him, and his blood is flowing through his veins, Jordan knows he can beat Braun tonight. Jordan walks off and Angle has a smile on his face.

– Asuka vs. Dana Brooke: Asuka drops Dana early on and works her over with strikes. Asuka applies a submission on the ropes then stomps on Dana. Dana drops Asuka across the middle rope then slaps her across the face. Asuka fires back with some strikes to the head and a kick for the three count after a short squash match.

Winner: Asuka

– The Miz, Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas are in the ring for an edition of Miz TV. Miz briefly cuts a promo on Baron Corbin, before introducing his guest tonight, Roman Reigns. Reigns makes Miz wait, and then he finally comes out through the crowd with Dean Ambrose and Seth Rollins. The Miz says he only wanted Reigns tonight, and he also tells The Shield to thank him for being the one who made them reunite. The Miz says he should also get royalties from their new shirt sales. The crowd chants “Miz is awesome” and Reigns says that’s the first time he’s ever heard that. Miz seems confused how to react. The lights start cutting out, and Miz demands a spotlight be put on him. The Miz points out that he’s the one with a Championship belt right now, not the Shield members. Rollins says him and Ambrose will be getting the Tag Titles back soon, and that means Reigns will need a title belt so he’s not left out. Reigns tells Miz he’s free tonight, and wants a shot at Miz’s Intercontinental Title belt. Bo Dallas interrupts and says if you want The Miz, you gotta go through him and Axel. Reigns decks Dallas with a right hand, and then The Miz immediately sprints backstage. Axel asks for mercy since he has a neck brace on. The Shield appears to be letting Axel leave, but Rollins ends up kneeing him in the face and Rollins hits the Dirty Deeds. Next, they surround Dallas and beat him down before delivering the triple powerbomb.

– Braun Strowman does an interview in the back where he says he’s glad Jason Jordan isn’t afraid of him since that makes him different from everyone else – including Triple H.

– Sheamus vs. Dean Ambrose: Sheamus backs Ambrose up into the corner to start things off. Ambrose fights out and arm drags Sheamus down. Sheamus comes back and goes for the Ten Beats of the Baron, but Ambrose fights out and gives some strikes right back to Sheamus. Sheamus boots Ambrose down, and then the fight spills out to ringside. Back in the ring, it’s all Sheamus as he takes control of the match. He hits a vertical suplex on Ambrose then stomps on him. Ambrose taunts Sheamus and Sheamus goes for another suplex, but Ambrose elbows him away then slaps him across the face. Sheamus charges at Ambrose in the corner, but Ambrose dodges and Sheamus crashes into the ring post. Ambrose goes for the Dirty Deeds but Sheamus escapes. Ambrose tees off with punches on Sheamus then drops him with some clotheslines. Sheamus kicks Ambrose, but ambrose comes back with a forearm shot that sends Sheamus falling out to ringside. Ambrose attempts a suicide dive, but Sheamus punches him through the ropes. Back in the ring, Sheamus goes for the Brogue Kick but Ambrose ducks and knocks Sheamus outside once again. Ambrose goes for the suicide dive again, and this time it connects. Ambrose takes Sheamus back in the ring. Cesaro attacks Rollins at ringside, and the distraction leads to Sheamus rolling up Ambrose for two. Ambrose drops Sheamus on the middle rope, then Ambrose climbs to the top turnbuckle. Cesaro gets on the apron for the distraction, allowing Sheamus to elbow Ambrose in the face. Sheamus goes up top and grabs Ambrose, then hits a rolling senton off the middle rope for a two count. Rollins attacks Cesaro at ringside now, distracting Sheamus. Ambrose grabs Sheamus from behind and hits the Dirty Deeds for the three count.

Winner: Dean Ambrose

– Matt Hardy is backstage in the locker room. Jason Jordan approaches him and asks Matt for advice for facing Strowman. Matt says he’s faced many giants in WWE like Brock Lesnar and Mark Henry, but Strowman is different and “inhuman.” Matt says one of the lessons he’s learned in WWE is that some nights, it’s just not your night. Matt walks off as Jordan looks concerned.

– RAW Women’s Champ Alexa Bliss comes out to the ring next and cuts a promo about taking Charlotte to her limit last night. She says Charlotte got lucky, but Alexa is still the goddess of WWE. She get interrupted by Mickie James who comes out to the ring and trashes Alexa. Sasha Banks interrupts next, and then Alicia Fox interrupts. Bliss says none of them are deserving of a title shot, and she starts to leave. Kurt Angle comes out and stops her. The Olympic gold medalist says Bliss will get another chance to prove why she’s champ, because she’ll face the winner of a Fatal 4 Way match starting right now.

– Alicia Fox vs. Mickie James vs. Bayley vs. Sasha Banks: The winner of this one will be the #1 contender for the Women’s Championship. Bayley and Sasha trade holds early on until Fox runs in. Banks drops Fox with the Backstapper and then the Banks Statement. Bayley breaks it up, then Sasha sends Bayley outside with a knee to the face. Mickie runs up and hits a neckbreaker on Sasha for a two count. Paige’s music hits, and Paige comes out to the stage to make her WWE return. The crowd chants “yes” and Paige apologizes for interrupting but she has something to say to the fans – I’m back. Paige says she didn’t come back alone, and then Sonya Deville and Mandy Rose run in the ring. They drop Mickie, and then Banks. Paige runs in and boots down Bayley. Fox has seen enough and she runs to the back. They beat down the three women and Paige hits the RamPaige on Bayley. They pose in the ring and then we go to commercial.

Winner: No contest

– Paige, Mandy and Sonya are backstage for an interview, but they quickly get interrupted by Alexa Bliss. They end up beating down Bliss and throwing her into some gear in the hallway. They leave Bliss laying on the floor.

– Braun Strowman vs. Jason Jordan: Braun and Jordan have a stare-down in the middle and Jordan gives Braun a shot to the face. Braun rushes Jordan out to the floor. As Jordan runs back in the ring, he dodges a shot from Braun and Braun crashes into the corner hard. Jordan tries to double-leg takedown Braun and he manages to lift him up, but Braun is just too heavy and he drops him. Braun tosses Jordan across the ring and then sends him out to ringside again. Jordan is selling the bad leg hard. Kane then runs in from behind and attacks Braun. The ref calls for the bell.

Winner via DQ: Braun Strowman

– After the match, Kane beats down Braun with a steel chair all over ringside. Kane drives a chair into Braun’s neck by slamming it into the steps. Braun gasps for air as refs tell Braun to let them help him. Braun refuses help and heads to the back.

– Cruiserweight Champ Enzo Amore comes out to the ring with Noam Dar, Tony Nese, Ariya Daivari, and Drew Gulak. Enzo cuts a promo about retaining his title at Survivor Series, and talks about how he has improved 205 Live and also improved the lives of his crew in the ring with him now. Rich Swann, Cedric Alexander, Mustafa Ali and Akira Tozawa come out to the ring next to interrupt. The two sides briefly trade insults, and we have a match.

– Mustafa Ali, Cedric Alexander, Rich Swann & Akira Tozawa vs. Drew Gulak, Tony Nese, Ariya Daivari & Noam Dar: Gulak and Swann go at it to start. Gulak gets a two count early on, then Swann decks him with a dropkick. They go out to ringside where Swann gets cornered by heels, but his partners come around to help out. Enzo runs around to the other side of the ring for safety, which leads to a chase on the outside. They run through the ring and Gulak hits Swann with a flying knee to the face for a two count. Daivari comes in and they double team Swann for another two count. Nese comes in but Swann throws him outside to ringside. The match falls apart with run-ins, and Enzo tries to get Swann but misses. Swann finally gets the clean tag to Cedric and Cedric cleans house. He unloads on Dar, then sends Gulak out to the floor. Tozawa runs the ropes and hits a dive on Gulak. Nese hits an elbow on Cedric, but Ali gets the blind tag on Cedric. Ali drops Dar, then Cedric hits the Lumbar Check on Nese. Ali follows up with the reverse 450 splash for the three count.

Winners: Mustafa Ali, Cedric Alexander, Rich Swann and Akira Tozawa

– Renee Young tries to get an interview with Kurt Angle about Strowman. Angle says Strowman declined medical attention and left the building, and now Angle has to check on his son. Angle rushes in to the trainer’s office and checks on Jordan, who is still selling the leg injury. The Miz runs in and asks Kurt to cancel his match against Reigns tonight, but Kurt declines and tells Miz to go get ready. Jordan tells Kurt that Matt was right earlier, and Braun is not human.

– The Miz (c) vs. Roman Reigns: The Miz’s Intercontinental Title is on the line in this one. Miz stalls at ringside early on until Reigns chases him bc in the ring. Reigns decks Miz with a right hand and Miz rolls out to the apron. Miz chokes Reigns across the top rope, then they brawl into the ring. Reigns hits a sit-out powerbomb on Miz for a two count, then the Miz rolls back outside for a breather. Back in the ring, The Miz starts mounting a comeback, but Reigns shuts him back down with a flying clothesline. Reigns hits a series of clotheslines in the corner, then a running big boot on the Champion. Reigns looks for the Superman Punch, but Miz rolls outside. Reigns follows and comes leaping from the ring steps, but Miz catches him and DDTs him at ringside. Back in the ring, Miz follows up with a second DDT for a two count. Miz now locks Reigns in a chin lock and tries to keep him grounded. Miz hits a knee strike and a neckbreaker for another two count. Reigns tries to get back in the game and delivers some big strikes to the Champion. Miz charges at Reigns in the corner, but Reigns dodges and Miz crotches himself on the middle turnbuckle. They trade more punches, then Miz starts with a series of kicks on a grounded Reigns. Reigns ducks out and hits a Samoan Drop on Miz for a two count. Reigns goes for the Superman Punch, but Miz dodges it. Reigns goes for another one, but Miz ducks and trips Reigns. Miz boots Reigns in the face for a two count, and Reigns is selling a knee injury now. Miz hits a flying clothesline on Reigns in the corner, then he climbs up to the top turnbuckle. Miz comes flying off the top, but Reigns hits the Superman punch on him for a two count. Sheamus and Cesaro run out onto the apron to distract Reigns, which leas to Miz hitting the Skull Crushing Finale for a two count. Rollins and Ambrose run out now and start brawling with The Bar at ringside. Reigns and Miz are both slow to get to their feet in the ring, but when they do, Reigns hits the spear on Miz. Reigns scores the three count to win the Intercontinental Championship.

Winner & new Intercontinental Champion: Roman Reigns

– Ambrose and Rollins hit the ring after the match and hand Reigns the IC Title. Reigns stands on the turnbuckle with the belt in the air as RAW comes to an end.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in WWE.

Returning Star Backstage At RAW, Scheduled Matches For Tonight, More

– Paige is reportedly backstage at tonight’s RAW from Houston, Texas. She has been medically cleared to return and was also backstage at last week’s show.

– In addition to Survivor Series fallout and Triple H turning on RAW General Manager Kurt Angle last night, the following matches are scheduled for tonight:

  • Samoa Joe vs. Finn Balor.
  • Jason Jordan vs. Braun Strowman.

WWE uploaded this video of Joe hyping his match against Balor, who he calls a selfish punk:

– After attacking Shane McMahona at Survivor Series, WWE is teasing that Sami Zayn and Kevin Ownes could be headed to RAW.

Not happy with their assigned match at Survivor Series, SmackDown’s Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens voice their displeasure with Raw Commissioner Stephanie McMahon backstage at Survivor Series 2017.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE.

Details On WWE Tribute To The Troops 2017

WWE sent in the following press release on Monday announcing that this year’s Tribute to the Troops special will be taped on Tuesday, 12/5 from Naval Base San Diego. The show will air as a two-hour special the following Thursday, 12/14, on the USA Network.

WWE THANKS AMERICA’S ARMED FORCES WITH 15TH ANNUAL TRIBUTE TO THE TROOPS  CELEBRATION

STAMFORD, Conn. and San Diego, CA., November 20, 2017 – WWE (NYSE: WWE) today announced that the 15th annual WWE Tribute to the Troops event will be held on Tuesday, December 5 at Naval Base San Diego with a two-hour special airing Thursday, December 14 at 8/7C on USA Network.

WWE began Tribute to the Troops in 2003 as a way to honor our servicemen and women and their families, and today it is considered TV’s most patriotic and heartwarming show of the year. In the tradition of Bob Hope, WWE brings together the best of sports, entertainment and pop culture with celebrity appearances and performances from music’s most popular acts.

While in San Diego, WWE Superstars will spend time giving back to military personnel and their families. Activities include a Be a STAR® bullying prevention rally, as well as hospital visits and military outreach initiatives at various installations including Naval Base San Diego, Naval Air Station North Island and San Diego Naval Medical Center.

“We are thrilled to welcome WWE for their 15th annual Tribute to the Troops celebration continuing what has become a great tradition during the holiday season,” said San Diego Naval Base Commanding Officer, Charles Womack. “The servicemen and women of San Diego could not be more excited, and look forward to participating in this inspirational event.”

“It is a privilege to honor our servicemen and women for their commitment and sacrifice to our nation,” said WWE Chairman & CEO Vince McMahon. “Tribute to the Troops is our most meaningful show of the year and we are proud to continue the tradition at Naval Base San Diego.”

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: .

Kane Talks About Team Hell No, WWE Locker Room Changes, Aleister Black

Former WWE Champion Kane recently spoke with SportsKeeda to talk about various topics. Here are some of the highlights:

How the WWE locker room has changed over the years:

“It’s very different now. Especially the younger guys. Social media, video games…we had never even heard of that.”

His time as part of Team Hell No with Daniel Bryan:

“I had a lot of fun with Team Hell No. It was a great time. It was a departure from what I’d done before, in WWE. Daniel Bryan and I would complement each other’s performance, and it was actually the most fun thing I’ve ever got to do.”

Aleister Black:

“Yeah, a little bit. He’s a guy with a great future, and had a great match at WarGames.”

You can read the entire interview here.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: .

New Title Match Announced For ROH Final Battle

Ring of Honor has announced a new match for their upcoming Final Battle PPV (pay-per-view) event. ROH World Tag Team Champions Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin) will defend their titles against Best Friends (Berretta and Chuckie T).

Ring of Honor holds their Final Battle pay-per-view event at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City on Friday, December 5th. Here is the updated card:

— ROH World Title Match: Cody Rhodes © vs. Dalton Castle

— Singles Match: Jay Lethal vs. Marty Scurll

— ROH Tag Team Title Match: Motor City Machine Guns © vs. Best Friends

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, ROH. Tagged: , .

Naomi’s Car Broken Into During Survivor Series

Not only did Naomi’s Smackdown team lose to the Raw women’s division last night, she also had her car broken into while the PPV was going on.

She posted the following to social media recently:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BbuW7nAAcG7/?hl=en&taken-by=trinity_fatu

She did note her “glow” was left unstolen.

UPDATE: It appears “Elfomi” was taken during the break-in:

Heath Slater and the Ascension Have Car Broken Into Earlier This Year

Heath Slater and the Ascension also had their car broken into earlier this year. In February, Slater and the Ascension had their rental car broken into at a show in Oakland.

Just a month beforehand, AJ Styles had several belongings stolen from him while at an Arkansas live event.

That’s 5 Superstars who have had belongings stolen while working in one calendar year for WWE.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , .

Kamala (James Harris) Reportedly on Life Support

According to a social media post from longtime wrestling reporter, Kevin Conlee, James Harris (aka Kamala) is on life support.

Kamala/James Harris

Little is known at this point regarding Harris’ condition. Conlee is a longtime mainstay around the Memphis wrestling scene where Harris first started working his popular gimmick.

Harris had his left leg amputated in 2011 due to complications from diabetes and high blood pressure. His right leg was also amputated in 2012.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News. Tagged: .

Tommy Dreamer Issues Challenge For Major Title Before HOH35

Tommy Dreamer’s House of Hardcore promotion aired a live free event from Saturday on Twitch. While production problems plagued the live broadcast, the event is now up for free on the site.

Before the show went to air, Billy Corgan’s NWA organization sent out notifications through their social media accounts that their champion, Tim Storm, was in Philadelphia at the 2300 Arena. The segment did not appear during the House of Hardcore broadcast but did air through NWA’s social media accounts.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnUQ9grmGYY

Billy Corgan’s Nation Wrestling Alliance

Dreamer let Billy know his NWA is always welcome in House of Hardcore and also issued a challenge to champion, Tim Storm for the title. Former challenger, Nick Aldis, also had something to say regarding receiving another title shot in the near future.

Billy Corgan’s purchase of the NWA came into effect on October 1st. The company has been busy releasing mini-documentaries on their YouTube channel and marketing Tim Storm.

Storm and the NWA have issued an open challenge to available talents for a shot at the title and the list of potential challengers appears to be growing rapidly.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News. Tagged: , .

Lucha Underground Offering Releases To Unhappy Talent

Lucha Underground will be offering a way out of the company for unhappy talent, according to Executive Producer Eric Van Wagenen on the Masks, Mats & Mayhem podcast.

Throughout 2017, popular junior heavyweight, Ricochet, has expressed unhappiness with the limitations his Lucha Underground contract places on him. While Ricochet is now contractually free of LU, at least a few currently contracted LU talents feel the same as Ricochet did.

LU is now offering any unhappy talents a release from their contract provided they come back to the show in order to be written off, drop titles, or otherwise film an explanation for their departure. You can listen to the full episode here:

Lucha Underground Season 4

News that contracted talent will be offered releases comes on the heels of news the company will also be relaxing the exclusivity clauses in their contracts and allowing talent to perform for other organizations.

Other changes expected to occur for season 4, include a reduced budget for backstage scenes and production.

Filming is expected to begin in early 2018 with May being a targetted airdate.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News.

Title Match Announced for Smackdown

This week’s Smackdown will be headlined by AJ Styles defending his newly won WWE Championship against former champion, Jinder Mahal.

Last night at Survivor Series, Tom Phillips announced that Jinder will be cashing in his rematch clause on Tuesday night. This makes perfect sense for Jinder to do from a kayfabe perspective as Styles will only be 2 days removed from facing Brock Lesnar.

AJ Styles vs. Jinder Mahal II

Before Styles vs. Lesnar at Survivor Series last night, Jinder cut a pre-taped promo saying he was cheering for Styles because he is from Smackdown but is hoping Lesnar hurts Styles because he wants his title back.

Jinder and AJ have met in single’s action twice before. In May, Jinder defeated Styles on an episode of Smackdown and 2 weeks ago AJ defeated Jinder for the WWE title on the Smackdown from Manchester.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , .

Paul Heyman Praises AJ Styles After Lesnar Match (Video)

Paul Heyman had some strong praise for WWE Champion AJ Styles after AJ’s loss to WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar at last night’s Survivor Series pay-per-view. (Video below)

Heyman says he’s shocked at the loss because he’s been a fan of AJ before you were supposed to be a fan of AJ. Heyman says AJ is more phenomenal than he’s supposed to be, and if you”re not a fan of AJ then you shouldn’t be watching WWE. Heyman says AJ is what WWE Hall of Famers Ric Flair and Shawn Michaels were to their generations, but he’s updated it and evolved their styles to truly be the single most phenomenal in-ring performer Heyman has ever had the honor and pleasure of watching up-close. Heyman says he’s been doing this his entire life but no one has done anything in the ring that compared to what he saw at Survivor Series.

Heyman says he has nothing but respect and admiration for AJ, which is why he thanked God when the match was made against Lesnar because it’s one thing to eat through an entire division but it’s another thing to step into the ring with AJ and show the world that you can conquer those hopes, those dreams, that intensity, that underdog.

Heyman says yes, Rocky lost at the end of the movie but he won the respect of the woman he loved. And AJ Styles continues to earn our respect every time he performs. Heyman says AJ just didn’t just perform, he fought and took the fight to The Beast like very few have. Heyman goes on and praises Lesnar as the reigning, defending, undisputed, #1 champion – then, now and forever.

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , .

Sami Callihan Talks His Departure From WWE, Joining Impact Wrestling, Negative Media Attention

Sami Callihan recently appeared on Wrestling Epicenter to talk about various topics. Here are the highlights:

Being one of the first talents to request to leave WWE:

“I don’t think I was a trendsetter. I just was… mediocrity is dead with me. I’m not complacent just sitting around collecting a paycheck. It really didn’t matter about being a trendsetter. I wasn’t going to just sit around collecting a paycheck, even though it was a very good paycheck to do nothing. I was ready to go out and show them why they hired a 5’7 kid in the first place.”

His debut at Bound for Glory:

“It was great, man! One of the things I really pride myself on is I like to be unpredictable. You don’t know when or where I’m going to show up. I can legit show up anywhere. I think that kind of adds to my aura and makes me cool.”

Negative media attention towards Impact:

“Well, the first week I was there man, it is pretty bad a**. They are pretty much giving us the opportunity. I think the big thing is management hasn’t always been the best. The best way I can describe it is if you were a fan of WCW back in 1992-1993, when people were running WCW that wasn’t wrestling fans, that didn’t know wrestling, that kind of thought, “I’m going to run this company and do what I want.” I kind of attribute it to that. That kind of is where TNA (Impact) was for a while, but now, they have smart people on top. They have guys on top that were on top when TNA was at their best. Now, Scott D’Amore is helping with, majorly helping with the company. Sonjay Dutt, majorly helping with the company. Abyss, majorly helping with the company. These are guys that were helping with the company when it first was amazing. Change doesn’t happen overnight, but these guys are slowly putting plans into motion to change TNA back to what it was. Within the next year, TNA is going to totally pull a 180 and people are going to start noticing it again.”

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News. Tagged: .

Funny Post-Survivor Series Video Of Triple H, Stephanie McMahon Appears

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=llUlBn63bec?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

Above is video of Stephanie McMahon entering the ring to check on Triple H after WWE Survivor Series went off the air. For those who missed it, Triple H and Braun Strowman won the men’s 5-on-5 Traditional Elimination Match for Team RAW but the pay-per-view ended with Braun destroying The Game.

Below is a fan clip of Triple H walking into the set as he and Stephanie left to go to the backstage area:

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bbs_mbQlnq-/

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , .

Team SmackDown Argues (Video), Team RAW Wins Battle For Brand Supremacy, WWE Network Thanks

– Below is video of the Team SmackDown women’s team arguing backstage after their loss to Team RAW at WWE Survivor Series. As noted, Asuka was the Sole Survivor for Team RAW in the 5-on-5 Traditional Elimination Match.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8On7xWpJ8g?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– Regarding the battle for brand supremacy at Survivor Series, Team RAW ended up winning 4-3 – the men’s team won, the women’s team won, The Shield defeated The New Day and WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar defeated WWE Champion AJ Styles. Blue brand wins saw WWE United States Champion Baron Corbin defeat WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz, SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos defeat RAW Tag Team Champions The Bar and SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair defeat RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss.

– WWE posted this video to thank fans for watching the WWE Network this year:

https://twitter.com/WWE/status/932416660929110016

Posted November 20th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , .

Backstage Video Of The Shield At Survivor Series, Reactions To Enzo Amore’s Win, Kevin Owens

– The opening match of tonight’s WWE Survivor Series pay-per-view in Houston saw The Shield defeat The New Day in six-man action. Below is video of Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose talking to Mike Rome about the win. Rollins gives The New Day props for putting up a fight but they quickly leave to celebrate the win.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Cgh_HIz_9s?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– As noted, tonight’s Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show saw Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn defeat Breezango. This is the first time in his WWE career that Owens has worked a pre-show.

– Below are cruiserweight reactions to Enzo Amore retaining the WWE Cruiserweight Title over Kalisto on tonight’s WWE Survivor Series pre-show:


https://twitter.com/CedricAlexander/status/932397171793637378
https://twitter.com/MustafaAliWWE/status/932393816019042304

Posted November 19th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , .

7 Takeaways From WWE Survivor Series 2017

WWE Survivor Series 2017 aired live on the WWE Network from the Toyota Center in Houston, TX on November 19th.

Kickoff Show results:

  • Elias defeated Matt Hardy
  • Enzo Amore defeated Kalisto 
  • Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens defeated Breezango

Owens and Zayn cut a promo before their match and claimed that it was insulting that they were relegated to the Kickoff Show. Owens and Zayn also questioned why Shane McMahon was still the SmackDown Commissioner.

Here are 7 takeaways from WWE Survivor Series 2017:

The Shield Put Team RAW Up 1-0

New Day versus The Shield started off WWE Survivor Series 2017. Dean Ambrose and Kofi Kingston started off the match. Ambrose got the upper-hand and smacked Kingston in the face. Kofi laughed and tagged in Xavier Woods. Seth Rollins got in the match and leveled Woods with a Clothesline.

Big E was tagged in and Rollins tagged in Roman Reigns. Big E knocked Reigns to the mat and mocked him. Reigns got back up and planted Big E with a Samoan Drop. The Shield then Clotheslined Kofi and Big E out of the ring and Woods was left all alone in the ring. The Shield spent the next few minutes taking turns beating the hell out of Woods.

New Day battled back and isolated Dean Ambrose in the corner of the ring and took turns stomping on him. Ambrose was still able to power out of the corner and connected with a Clothesline to Big E. Woods tagged himself in and beatdown Ambrose again in the corner. New Day once again took turns stomping on Ambrose in the corner.

Rollins and Reigns dragged Kofi and Woods off the ring apron. Ambrose connected with a Suicide Dive onto Woods. Ambrose went to get back into the ring but Big E Speared him off the ring apron and to the floor outside the ring. The action returned to the ring and Woods continued the beatdown on Ambrose. Ambrose finally escaped and tagged in Rollins.

Seth connected with a Slingblade onto Kingston for a two count. Rollins Powerbombed Woods into the turnbuckle as Roman Reigns tagged himself in. Reigns hit a Clothesline and then geared up for the Superman Punch. Woods dodged Roman’s first attempt but Reigns connected with his second attempt. Reigns went for a Spear but Woods got his knee up. Big E and Ambrose were then tagged in.

Big E hit a Belly to Belly to Reigns and then everything broke down. Ambrose and Rollins teamed up on Kofi Kingston. Rollins hit the knee and then Ambrose planted Kingston with the Dirty Deeds but Woods broke up the pinfall. Woods then tagged himself in but Rollins connected with a Superkick.

Reigns and Ambrose slammed Big E into the barricade outside the ring. They then walked to the other side of the ring and slammed Kofi Kingston into the barricade. The Shield were going for the Triple Powerbomb but Big E dragged Reigns out of the ring and launched him into the steel steps.

New Day teamed up and beatdown Reigns outside the ring. Back in the ring, Woods connected with a right hand onto Ambrose and then tagged in Big E. Big E lifted Ambrose up onto his shoulders and Kofi and Woods booted Ambrose in the face. Big E lifted Rollins and Ambrose onto his shoulders and Woods and Kofi connected with a double Midnight Hour. Reigns speared Big E.

Both teams slowly stood up and stared at each other from across the ring. The Shield and New Day charged at each other and battled out of the ring. Ambrose planted Big E with the Dirty Deeds and Rollins hit Woods with a knee. Reigns connected with a Spear onto Kofi Kingston outside the ring. Reigns set up on the second rope and The Shield Triple Powerbombed Kofi Kingston off the second rope for the victory.

The Shield and New Day put on an excellent opening match. The crowd was split during this match. At one point they were very behind New Day, but they booed them out of the building when they would not stop stomping on Dean Ambrose during the beginning of the match. Reigns still managed to get a “you still suck!” chant from the Houston crowd.

No One Was Ready For Asuka

Team SmackDown (Becky Lynch, Carmella, Tamina, Naomi and Natalya) faced Team RAW (Alicia Fox, Bayley, Sasha Banks, Nia Jax and Asuka) in a traditional 5-on-5 Elimination match. Stephanie McMahon gave Team RAW a pep-talk before the match and went over why she believed in each Superstar.

Alicia Fox and Becky Lynch started off the match. Becky dominated early and hit a Leg Drop off the top rope for a two count. Becky went for the Dis-Arm-Her but Fox grabbed the ropes. Bayley tagged herself in and Becky Lynch didn’t notice. Bayley rolled up Lynch and Becky became the first Superstar eliminated.

Team RAW isolated Tamina in the corner for a bit but that didn’t last too long. Tamina powered out of the corner and drove Bayley to Team SmackDown’s corner. Carmella hit Bayley with a Superkick and then Tamina followed it up with a Splash to eliminate Bayley.

Tamina and Nia Jax then got into the ring as the crowd cheered. Nia drove Tamina into the corner and then hit her with a Splash. Nia then connected with a Cannonball for a two count. Nia went for a Samoan Drop but Lana got up on the ring apron. Nia slammed into her but turned around and was greeted by back-to-back Superkick from Tamina. Tamina then hit another Superkick onto Nia outside the ring and followed it up with a Splash off the steel steps. Nia Jax was then counted out.

Alicia Fox was quickly eliminated by Naomi. Sasha Banks immediately got into the ring and applied the Bank Statement to Naomi and Naomi tapped out. It is now down to Carmella, Natalya and Tamina versus Sasha Banks and Asuka.

Asuka eliminated Carmella after she foolishly slapped Asuka in the face. Asuka got pissed and booted Carmella in the face to eliminate her. Sasha Banks and Natalya were then tagged in. Banks hit Double Knees and then locked in the Bank Statement in the middle of the ring. Tamina got into the ring and broke up the hold.

Natalya slammed Banks into the second turnbuckle and then locked in the Sharpshooter in the middle of the ring. Sasha tried to make her way to Asuka in the corner but Tamina sprinted across the ring and knocked Asuka off the ring apron. Banks then tapped out and it was down to Natalya and Tamina for Team SmackDown and Asuka for Team RAW.

Tamina beatdown Asuka and went for a Splash but Asuka got out of the way. Asuka locked in the Asuka Lock and Tamina quickly submitted. Natalya sprinted into the ring and tried to lock in the Sharpshooter. Asuka reversed it into a Knee Bar but Natalya broke free. Asuka connected with a spin kick and then once again applied the Asuka Lock for the victory. Team RAW is up 2-0.

I thought this match was decent. There was barely a build for the Women’s 5-on-5 match and it didn’t feel as special as it should have. It was also completely predictable that Asuka would be the only Superstar remaining. Tamina looked dominant in this match and I wouldn’t mind seeing her finally become relevant on SmackDown.

Baron Corbin Picked Up SmackDown’s First Victory

Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas accompanied The Miz to the ring. Axel and Dallas kept getting involved in the match. Corbin was on the ring apron and Dallas chop-blocked Corbin’s knee The Miz took advantage and stomped on Corbin’s injured knee.

The Miz applied the Figure Four in the middle of the ring. Corbin slowly made his way to the bottom rope and broke the hold. The Miz charged at Corbin but Baron was ready and planted The Miz with Deep Six for a two count.

Corbin punched Axel outside the ring and then leveled The Miz with a Clothesline. Corbin planted Dallas with the End of Days but The Miz took advantage and once again targeted his attack on Corbin’s knee. The Miz planted Corbin with a DDT for a two count. The Miz hit a Dropkick and went for another one but Corbin caught him and planted him with the End of Days for the pinfall victory.

I wasn’t looking forward to this match at all, but it would up being decent. Ultimately, this match won’t help Baron Corbin at all. Corbin said after the match that he shut everyone up that criticizes him. I don’t think a victory over The Miz is going to stop fans from poking fun at Corbin.

The Usos Are The Class Of The Tag Team Division

The Usos versus The Bar were up next. Sheamus’ mohawk looked especially ridiculous tonight. The Usos controlled the match early and isolated Sheamus in the corner. Jimmy and Jey took turns stomping on Sheamus in the corner.

Cesaro was tagged in but once again The Usos isolated him in the corner. Cesaro powered out of the corner with a series of uppercuts and tagged in Sheamus. Cesaro connected with an uppercut to Jey Uso. Jimmy Uso hit a Suicide Dive onto Cesaro outside the ring. Sheamus then planted Jimmy with a rolling Senton outside the ring and then brought him back into the ring. Sheamus connected with a Clothesline off the top rope for a two count.

Cesaro got back in the match and applied a Chin Lock. Sheamus got back in the match and continued beatdown by dropping a knee onto Jimmy Uso. Sheamus once again applied a Chin Lock in the middle of the ring. Jimmy escaped the hold but was planted with an Irish Curse Backbreaker for a two count.

Sheamus and Cesaro controlled the next few minutes of the match. Cesaro got the Sharpshooter locked in on Jey Uso but Jey was able to get to the ropes. Jey knocked Cesaro out of the ring and Sheamus charged at Jey and missed and slammed into the ring post. Jey tried to leap onto Sheamus but Sheamus caught him and planted him with the White Noise. Sheamus went for the cover but Jimmy Uso leaped into the ring and broke it up.

Jimmy Uso got launched into the middle rope and then tumbled out of the ring. Cesaro lifted Jey Uso up onto his shoulders as Sheamus was on the turnbuckle. Jey punched Sheamus in the face and planted Sheamus with a Samoan Drop from on top of Cesaro’s shoulders. Jimmy then hit Cesaro with a Superkick as Jey went for the cover on Sheamus but Sheamus kicked out at two.

Jimmy and Jey tried to double Superkick Sheamus but Cesaro got in the way. The Usos then Superkicked Sheamus several times and then connected with a Splash off the top rope for the pinfall victory. Team RAW and Team SmackDown were now tied 2-2.

I was looking forward to this match but feared that WWE wouldn’t give it enough time on the card or that it would be bumped to the Kickoff Show. That didn’t turn out to be the case at all and these two teams put on a very entertaining match. The Usos have simply been awesome on SmackDown recently and they always put on a great match.

The Queen Put SmackDown In The Lead

Alexa Bliss faced off against Charlotte tonight at Survivor Series. Alexa spent the first minute trying to avoid Charlotte. Alexa and Charlotte battled on the ring apron. Bliss grabbed Charlotte’s arm and leaped down to the floor and Charlotte slammed hard on the floor outside the ring.

Back in the ring, Bliss remained in control of the match and focused her attack on Charlotte’s ribs. Charlotte fought back for a moment but Alexa knocked her back down with a Dropkick. Bliss climbed up to the top rope but Charlotte started moving. Bliss dropped down to the second rope and connected with Double Knees for a two count.

Bliss locked in a Guillotine choke in the middle of the ring but Charlotte was able to power to her feet. Charlotte planted Bliss with a Powerbomb for a two count. Charlotte climbed up to the top rope and went for a Moonsault but Alexa rolled out of the way and Charlotte landed on her injured ribs.

Alexa connected with a big punch and then a DDT. Bliss went for the cover but Charlotte got her foot on the bottom rope to break up the pinfall. Alexa threw a tantrum and shouted at Charlotte to give up. Charlotte connected with a Spear but couldn’t capitilize. Bliss knocked Charlotte to the canvas and climbed to the top rope. Bliss went for Twisted Bliss but Charlotte got her knees up. Charlotte followed it up with a big boot and then locked in the Figure Eight for the submission victory. SmackDown now leads RAW 3-2.

Alexa Bliss dominated most of this match but wound up losing anyway. I thought this was another very good match. This match was originally supposed to be Alexa Bliss versus Natalya but Charlotte won the SmackDown Women’s Championship on this past Tuesday’s episode of SmackDown and replaced Natalya in this match. WWE made the right call because the crowd was definitely into this match.

The Beast Conquered The Phenomenal One 

Heyman took the microphone from JoJo before the match to introduce Brock Lesnar. Dueling “AJ Styles!” and “Suplex City!” echoed throughout the Toyota Center as Lesnar and Styles circled each other. Lesnar trapped Styles in the corner and then launched AJ across the ring.

Brock once again launched AJ across the ring and casually walked over to him with a grin on his face. Brock connected with a ridiculous Suplex that launched Styles across the ring. Lesnar followed it up with a German Suplex and then threw Styles out of the ring.

Lesnar threw Styles into the announce table and then brought him back in the ring. Lesnar connected with another German Suplex. Lesnar connected with a knee to the face and AJ fell to the canvas.

Styles finally connected with a flurry of punches but Lesnar kneed him in the midsection and AJ once again fell to the mat. Lesnar went for the F5 but Styles escaped. Brock charged at AJ in the corner and missed and hit his knee into the turnbuckle. Styles then connected with a DDT and a Dropkick to Lesnar’s knee.

AJ went for a Moonsault but Lesnar caught him and then stumbled backwards and bounced off the ropes while still carrying AJ. Styles went for a Tornado DDT but Lesnar blocked it and Styles crashed to the mat. Styles hit the Pele Kick and then went for the Phenomenal Forearm but Lesnar avoided it. Lesnar then hit a German Suplex and Styles flipped in the air and landed face-first.

Styles knocked Lesnar out of the ring and then connected with a Phenomenal Forearm. Styles then shoved Lesnar into the steel steps and then connected with another forearm. The action returned to the ring and Lesnar connected with a punch. Styles battled back and hit an Enziguri and followed it up with a Moonsault off the second rope. AJ then hit the 450 Splash for a two count.

AJ went for the Styles Clash but Lesnar reversed it and set up for the F5. Styles then countered that into the Calf Crusher in the middle of the ring. Lesnar broke the hold by bouncing AJ’s head off the mat several times. Lesnar went for another F5 but AJ connected with a forearm. AJ then hit the Phenomenal Forearm on Lesnar for a two count. Styles removed his elbow pad and went for another Phenomenal Forearm but Lesnar caught him and hit the F5 for the victory.

Styles and Lesnar put on an excellent match tonight at Survivor Series. I was worried that it was going to be another easy victory for Lesnar as he dominated the first few minutes of the match. The best sequence of the match was when Lesnar went for the F5 and Styles reversed it into the Calf Crusher and then Lesnar escaped the hold by brutally slamming AJ’s head into the canvas. The entire match was great and I’m glad we got to see this instead of Lesnar versus Mahal.

Triple H Went Into Business For Himself

Team RAW (Kurt Angle, Triple H, Braun Strowman, Finn Balor & Samoa Joe) faced Team SmackDown (Shane McMahon, Shinsuke Nakamura, Bobby Roode, Randy Orton & John Cena) in the main event of Survivor Series.

Braun Strowman and Shane McMahon started off the match. Strowman launched Shane across the ring and Shane quickly tagged Randy Orton. Samoa Joe was then tagged in and locked up with Orton. Joe connected with a shoulder tackle that knocked Orton to the canvas. Orton responded by hitting an elbow and a few upper-cuts to Joe in the corner. Orton went for the RKO but Joe blocked it. Joe went for the Coquina Clutch but Orton was able to avoid it.

Finn Balor and Shinsuke Nakamura were tagged in and the crowd went crazy. The crowd chanted “NXT” as the two Superstars locked up. Balor and Nakamura traded shots and poses for a couple of minutes before Triple H demanded to be tagged in.

Triple H drove Shinsuke into the corner as the crowd chanted “Nakamura”. Triple H connected with a flurry of right hands. Nakamura battled out of the corner and connected with a kick. Triple H connected with a Facebuster and Bobby Roode tagged himself in and had a stare down with Triple H.

Bobby Roode tried to pose in front of Triple H and Triple H punched Roode in the face. Roode battled back and connected with a few punches in the corner. Roode connected with a Clothesline for a one count. Triple H hit a Spinebuster on Roode and then mocked Roode’s pose and transitioned into a “suck it! pose. Roode hit a Spinebuster of his own and then posed in the ring. Triple H went for the Pedigree but Roode blocked it.

Angle was then tagged in and he hit three German Suplexes on Roode in a row. Angle went for the Angle Slam but Roode countered it into an Arm Drag. Both Angle and Roode connected with a Clothesline at the same time and both Superstars fell to the canvas.

Nakamura was tagged back in and he booted Angle in the face and then punched Strowman off the ring apron. Joe and Balor tried to attack Nakamura but Shinsuke connected with a series of kicks. Nakamura then hit the Kinshasa on Triple H as Kurt Angle tagged in Strowman. Braun planted Strowman with the Running Powerslam and Nakamura was the first Superstar eliminated.

Roode hit Strowman with a Blockbuster off the second rope for a one count. Roode went for another Blockbuster but Strowman blocked it and hit another Running Powerslam and Bobby Roode was eliminated. Joe tagged himself in and started shoving Braun Strowman. Triple H and Kurt Angle started shoving each other and Orton knocked them both down from behind. All hell broke loose and Orton planted Joe with a Powerslam.

Braun Strowman then approached Cena and Orton in the corner of the ring. Cena and Orton teamed up and attacked Strowman but Braun shoved them away. Cena and Orton shoved Strowman out of the ring. Strowman connected with a big right hand to Cena and started clearing off an announce table.

Orton and Cena once again attacked Strowman. Roode, Nakamura and Shane then helped Cena and Orton Suplex Strowman through the announce table. Shane then climbed to the top rope but Samoa Joe grabbed him and Suplexed him back in the ring. Shane tagged in John Cena. Cena hit a Dropkick but Joe knocked him to the canvas with a big boot. Joe hit a running Senton for a two count.

Joe and Balor started arguing and Cena took advantage and planted Joe with two Attitude Adjustments to eliminate Joe. John Cena and Kurt Angle then squared off in the ring. Angle wrestled Cena to the mat. Cena went for the Five Knuckle Shuffle but Angle reversed it into the Ankle Lock. Angle then hit the Angle Slam and went for the cover but Shane broke it up. Finn Balor hit the Coupe de Grace on Cena and Angle hit another Angle Slam and Cena was eliminated.

It was down to Angle, Strowman, Triple H and Finn Balor for Team RAW and Randy Orton and Shane McMahon for Team SmackDown. Balor was tagged in and he connected with a stomp onto Randy Orton. Balor then exited the ring and Dropkicked Shane into the barricade. Back in the ring, Balor hit the Slingblade and then Dropkicked Orton into the corner. Balor went for the Coupe de Grace but Orton got out of the way and hit Balor with the RKO to eliminate him.

Triple H then got into the ring and punched Orton in the face. Triple H trapped Orton in the corner of the ring and connected with several punches. Angle was then tagged in and he made his way up to the top rope. Orton shoved Triple H into the ropes and Angle crashed to the canvas.

Orton made his way towards Shane McMahon on the ring apron but Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn attacked Shane McMahon and threw him over the announce table. Shane grabbed a chair and hit Owens and Zayn with it. Owens got into the ring and Orton planted him with an RKO.

Sami Zayn retreated up the entrance ramp as Shane was swinging the chair wildly. Braun Strowman then tagged himself back in and leveled Orton with a Clothesline. Strowman planted Strowman with a Running Powerslam and Orton was eliminated. Shane McMahon was then the only member left of Team SmackDown.

Shane paced around the ring for a minute as Strowman, Angle and Triple H waited for him. Triple H tagged himself in and Braun Strowman stared at Triple H before exiting to the ring apron. Kurt Angle then tagged himself in and started arguing with Triple H. Shane went for a roll-up on Angle but Angle kicked out. Shane connected with an elbow for a two count.

Shane went for another roll-up but Angle kicked out again. Shane hit a DDT on Angle for another two count. Kurt Angle hit the Angle Slam and then locked in the Ankle Lock in the middle of the ring. Triple H then got into the ring and Pedigreed Kurt Angle. Triple H then dragged Shane McMahon on top of Kurt Angle and Angle was eliminated.

Triple H and Braun Strowman then stared at each other. Triple H moved over towards Shane McMahon and made it seem like he was on his side. Triple H then Pedigreed Shane McMahon and pinned him for the victory for Team RAW.

Braun Strowman got into the ring and Triple H raised Strowman’s hand. Braun still was confused and continued to stare at Triple H. Triple H posed around the ring as Strowman stared at him. Braun then grabbed Triple H by the throat and shouted at Triple H to never cross him again. Triple H went for the Pedigree but Braun avoided it and planted Triple H with a Running Powerslam. Strowman then delivered a second Running Powerslam to Triple H and ripped off his Team RAW shirt. Strowman then marched towards the back as Survivor Series went off the air.

I thought that Jason Jordan would somehow get himself involved in this match but he was only shown during Survivor Series in a brief backstage interview. Triple H humiliated RAW GM Kurt Angle tonight and then made sure that he was the one that led Team RAW to victory. It will be interesting to see how this plays out tomorrow night on RAW. Overall, the main event was solid and had some memorable moments with Shinsuke Nakamura and Bobby Roode squaring off against Triple H. In the end, it was Braun Strowman who stood tall and closed out Survivor Series.

Posted November 19th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: .

Enzo Amore Has Plans For RAW (Video), AJ Styles vs. Jinder Mahal Update, Stars At Survivor Series

– As noted, tonight’s WWE Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show saw WWE Cruiserweight Champion Enzo Amore retain over Kalisto. Below is Fallout video of Enzo celebrating the win. Enzo says tomorrow night on RAW he thinks a celebration is in order because this isn’t the first time he has defied the odds. Enzo teases something big for RAW tomorrow as The Zo Train rolls through.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3LuZ4aJZbL0?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– Jinder Mahal appeared on tonight’s WWE Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show to taunt WWE Champion AJ Styles and later did a sidebar interview before AJ’s loss to WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar. It was noted that Jinder is requesting his rematch for the WWE Title at Tuesday’s SmackDown from Houston.

– MLB player Josh Reddick of the Houston Astros and rapper Travis Scott were among those in attendance for tonight’s Survivor Series pay-per-view from the Toyota Center. Below is backstage video of Reddick and a ringside photo of Scott:

Posted November 19th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , .

WWE Survivor Series Attendance & Opening Video, Sami Zayn – Kevin Owens Video

– Below is the opening video used for tonight’s WWE Survivor Series pay-per-view:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NFW8xwChd-0?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– Michael Cole announced a sold-out crowd of 14,478 fans in attendance at the Toyota Center in Houston, TX for tonight’s Survivor Series pay-per-view.

– As seen on tonight’s WWE Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show, Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens defeated Breezango. Below is post-match video of Sami saying they did prove a point tonight but it was the same point they prove each week – that they’re the two best on SmackDown but here they are relegated to the pre-show when they should be leading Team SmackDown. Sami says there are no others even close to them and tonight the point was how it was a mistake to leave he and Owens behind. Sami says they just saw Stephanie McMahon and he gives her props for being delightful. The RAW Commissioner then appears. Sami says he thought he got the shaft on RAW but Stephanie was right about what she said about Shane McMahon. Sami apologizes and Stephanie shakes their hands. Stephanie says she’s also sorry, sorry that her brother doesn’t recognize them as the true talents that they are. Stephanie pats Owens on the back several times and walks off.

Posted November 19th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , .

Kevin Owens Talks Survivor Series Pre-Show, Baron Corbin Backstage Promo, Ember Moon’s Win

– Below is video of WWE United States Champion Baron Corbin arriving for his match with WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz at tonight’s Survivor Series pay-per-view. Corbin says Miz is a professional talker but he also believes every dumb thing he says. Corbin says unfortunately for Miz, the bell will ring tonight and everyone will find out what Maryse already knows – Miz is all talk.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjhqe7cwddY?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– The recent WWE NXT Women’s Title vacancy was the longest vacancy in company history since WWE began recognizing their own champions in 1963. As noted, Ember Moon defeated Kairi Sane, Peyton Royce and Nikki Cross to win the vacant title at NXT “Takeover: WarGames” last night.

– As noted, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn will be working the Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show tonight in a match against Breezango. Owens tweeted the following reaction to the announcement, plugging his WWE 365 episode that airs after the pay-per-view:

https://twitter.com/FightOwensFight/status/932368780205920257

Posted November 19th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , .

WWE Survivor Series Kickoff Video, Paul Heyman Hypes Lesnar vs. Styles, The Miz Promo (Video)

– Below is the 2017 WWE Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show with Renee Young, WWE Hall of Famer Jerry Lawler, WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels and Peter Rosenberg plus in-ring action with Kalisto vs. WWE Cruiserweight Champion Enzo Amore, Elias vs. Matt Hardy and Breezango vs. Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KywgEZOUkdM?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– Paul Heyman tweeted the following on tonight’s big champion vs. champion match between WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar and WWE Champion AJ Styles:

– Below is video of WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz arriving for tonight’s match with WWE United States Champion Baron Corbin. Miz says he’s never been more focused in his entire career than he is tonight. Miz says Corbin has talked about his pregnant wife so he will learn respect in WWE tonight. Miz says he has earned every inch and every step, proving that the Intercontinental Title is the most honorable in WWE. Miz says tonight is not Corbin’s night, it’s his and always will be.

Posted November 19th, 2017 in News, WWE. Tagged: , , .

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