Archive for December, 2018

WWE Hypes The Return Of Injured Star

WWE has hyped the return of one injured star to Monday Night RAW and that is Sami Zayn, who has been on the shelf due to undergoing surgery.

During this week’s episode of the flagship show of the company, it was revealed that Zayn would be returning to in-ring action under the red brand soon.

WWE has yet to reveal when he’ll be back in competition but with the Royal Rumble pay-per-view event just one month ago, it could be then if not sooner. You can see the graphic that WWE sent out here:

In June it was revealed that Zayn underwent shoulder surgery to fix a torn rotator cuff be and would out of action through the end of 2018. Then in August, he underwent his second bi-lateral rotator cuff surgery.

Zayn was last seen when he suffered a loss to Bobby Lashley at the WWE Money in the Bank pay-per-view event in Chicago, Illinois at the Allstate Arena on the WWE Network. MITB was the last date with the company for Zayn before he took time off.

What are your thoughts on Zayn’s return and how WWE should handle the booking involving his character? Sound off in the comment section.

WWE Confirms Several NXT Stars Coming To Main Roster

As part of the McMahon Family’s effort to “shake things up” on Monday’s edition of WWE Raw, it was announced that several NXT stars will be getting called up to the main roster soon. Those stars include EC3, Lacey Evans, Nikki Cross, Lars Sullivan, and Heavy Machinery.

It turns out that Cross has actually worked on the main roster before. Last month during a SmackDown TV taping in Manchester, England at the Manchester Arena, Cross took on then-SmackDown Women’s Champion Becky Lynch alongside the other SAnity stablemates (Eric Young, Alexander Wolfe and Killian Dain). The match was short as it only went five minutes with Lynch winning by submission.

There have been rumors for months that the company could be moving up some NXT stars to the main roster and now those rumors have come true. It should be noted that WWE has yet to announce when these talents will make their main roster debuts or which brand that they’ll be featured on.

It’ll be interesting to see if WWE makes another announcement with more NXT stars being called up on Tuesday’s SmackDown Live. If so, this could be an indication as to who will be featured on which brands.

Which of these Superstars do you think has the best chance of making an impact on the main roster?

Seth Rollins Talks Desire To Wrestle Kenny Omega, Staying In Touch With Roman Reigns

Former WWE Intercontinental Champion Seth Rollins was recently interviewed by Iridian Fierro of La Ley 107.9 promoting the holiday week WWE live events in Chicago where he talked about a wide range of topics including losing the IC Title to Dean Ambrose at the TLC pay-per-view event and more.

An interesting topic that was asked was about a potential showdown with IWGP Heavyweight Champion Kenny Omega, which led to Rollins bringing up how they wrestled each other about 10 years ago but never officially had a one-on-one match. He continued by stating that when he’s asked who he’d like to wrestle outside of the WWE, he would name Omega because they never faced one-on-one and he’s all about testing himself because of his mindset.

“I think I’m the absolute best and make no doubt about it, Kenny Omega is also one of the best in the world.”

Rollins also talked about if he stays in touch with former WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, who is currently battling leukemia, which he responded by stating that he talks with Reigns once a week just to see how he’s doing and that Reigns is completely focused about his battle and not about work.

Rollins added that it’s nice to hear from him and every now and again, Reigns will ask about what’s going on with WWE RAW but for the most part, it’s just two friends catching up together.

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WWE RAW Results & Live Coverage (12/17)

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The December 17th edition of WWE RAW was the first episode after TLC 2018, and it took place at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California.

– Fans are now being seated in the Golden 1 Center for tonight’s show.

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[live id=”9kqdgo” data-sort-time=”1545095499521″]- The stage has Christmas trees set up on it, and Vince McMahon comes out to the ring to kick off RAW. Vince says a lot of people have been wondering what’s happening with RAW, and that’s why he’s here tonight. Fans give Vince the “what” treatment as he talks about all of this being one man’s dream and vision. Vince then introduces his daughter Stephanie, and then they introduce Triple H, and then Shane McMahon. Stephanie gets on the mic and says they haven’t been doing a good job for the fans lately. Stephanie says they haven’t done what Vince taught them to, which is to listen to the audience. Stephanie says everything changes tonight, and we’re off to a fresh start. Triple H says the absentee management is over, and the four of them are taking over RAW. Shane McMahon then adds that the four of them are will be making sure they have the best possible experience on SmackDown too. Stephanie says they’re going to empower their superstars and fans, and Triple H says they’ll give them what they want – something new and fresh. Triple H says you’re going to be seeing new faces and match-ups, and now the fans are the authority. Vince says if they give the fans less of what they don’t want, and more of what the fans do want, then WWE will be there then, now and forever. Baron Corbin comes out to interrupt. Stephanie points out to Corbin that the fans are booing him. Corbin says he’s excited that the McMahons are running RAW, but he hasn’t been treated fairly, and he wants a conversation with them. [/live]

[live id=”ab6dzj” data-sort-time=”1545096233628″]Corbin steps in the ring as the fans boo him. Corbin tries to get the fans to stop booing him and he tells them they have no respect. Corbin tries to talk about coming out and doing his best every week, but stops when the fans keep booing him. Vince tells Corbin he has a mic and the fans don’t,so get on with it. Corbin says it’s not fair that he got ganged up on last night, because he prepared for Strowman and not for all the people Strowman brought with him. Corbin wants them to overturn last night’s ruling and make him the permanent GM of RAW. The McMahons decline, but then Vince has an idea. Baron Corbin will have a chance to be permanent GM, but he has to win his match tonight, and that match is against Kurt Angle. Kurt Angle comes out to the ring, and the McMahons start leaving. Stephanie stops on the ramp and introduces the special guest referee for tonight’s match – Heath Slater.[/live]

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Baron Corbin vs. Kurt Angle: The opening bell sounds and Kurt immediately takes the fight to Corbin in the corner. Corbin misses a shot and Kurt hits a suplex. Corbin rolls outside for a breather. Triple H comes out to the stage and says he forgot to mention – this is a handicap match. Apollo Crews, Bobby Roode and Chad Gable come out and beat down Corbin at ringside. They throw Corbin in the ring, and Kurt grabs him for a series of German suplexes. Gable tags in and hits another German suplex. Roode tags in for a double team on Corbin, then Crews tags in and kicks him in the head. Corbin rolls outside again and he tries to leave through the crowd, but Crews grabs him and brings him back in the ring. All the wrestlers surround Corbin and stomp on him, while Slater looks the other way. Shane McMahon walks out to the stage and says they forgot something – this match is also a No DQ match. Slater now starts stomping on Corbin, and everyone else brings steel chairs in the ring and starts nailing Corbin with them. Roode and Gable double team Corbin, then Crews hits the frogsplash, and then Kurt hits the Olympic Slam for the three count.

Winners: Kurt Angle, Chad Gable, Bobby Roode, & Apollo Crews

– After the match, they bring a table in the ring and Kurt gives Corbin another Olympic Slam through the table.

– Coming up: Finn Balor vs. Dolph Ziggler

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– The broadcast team introduces a video package looking at John Cena receiving the Muhammed Ali Legacy Award from Sports Illustrated.

– We see a replay of Dolph Ziggler assaulting Finn Balor backstage at TLC last night.

Finn Balor vs. Dolph Ziggler: This one starts off back-and-forth, but Balor takes control after hitting a dropkick that sends Ziggler rolling out to ringside. Back in the ring, Ziggler tries to mount a comeback, but Balor stuns him with another dropkick. Balor appears to be selling a leg injury. Balor lays into Dolph with strikes, then he hits the double foot stomp. Balor looks for the Sling Blade, but Ziggler avoids it. Balor connects with a kick and then hits the Sling Blade. Balor charges forward, but Ziggler catches him with a DDT for a two count. Balor comes back with a kick to the face, then he goes up top but Ziggler knocks him down and hits the Zig Zag for a two count. Drew McIntyre comes out, and Ziggler leaps off the apron to brawl with McIntyre at ringside. Balor ends up hitting a suicide dive on Drew, then Dolph attacks Balor. Back in the ring, Dolph hits the Fameasser for a two count. McIntyre runs in and beats down Balor and Ziggler for the DQ finish.

Winner via DQ: Dolph Ziggler

– Dolph throws Balor out to ringside, then he boots Ziggler in the face. Drew goes out to ringside and kicks Finn in the face next.

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– Dean Ambrose is shown in his locker room with the Intercontinental Title belt. Dean starts heading towards the gorilla position with two guys in gas masks behind him.

– Ambrose comes out to the ring with four masked men with him. Ambrose trashes the fans and Seth Rollins. Ambrose says as the moral compass of WWE, he will give Rollins a chance to come out and tell everyone that Ambrose was right. Ambrose keeps on calling our Rollins, but Rollins doesn’t come out. Tyler Breeze comes out instead, and it appears we have a match.

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Dean Ambrose (c) vs. Tyler Breeze: Ambrose’s Intercontinental Title is on the line in this one. Breeze starts off strong and he dumps Ambrose out to ringside in the opening moments. Ambrose turns things around with a clothesline on the floor, then back in the ring he puts the boots to Breeze in the corner. Breeze fights back with a series of kicks for a two-count. Ambrose grabs Breeze by the hair, then hits the Dirty Deeds for the three count.

Winner & still Intercontinental Champion: Dean Ambrose

– After the match, Ambrose cuts a promo about how he’s a better Intercontinental Champion than Rollins ever was. Rollins’ music hits, and then one of the masked men gets in the ring and kicks Ambrose in the face. He pulls off the mask to reveal that he’s Rollins. Rollins then fights off the masked men as Ambrose retreats up the ramp.

– Charlie Caruso asks Shane McMahon backstage about what changes are coming to RAW. Shane talks about new opportunity and new faces, and then Drake Maverick and the Authors of Pain interrupt. Drake talks about the AoP’s Tag Titles being stolen, and Drake asks for a rematch against Roode and Gable. Shane says mandatory rematches are old news, but Shane will create an opportunity for them. Shane says the AoP will take on The B Team, The Revival, and Lucha House Party in a fatal 4-way match. The winner gets a shot at the Tag Titles.

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– Cole tells us that after the break we’ll be taking a look at some of the new faces coming to RAW.

– Back from the break, we see a promo video for the Tribute To The Troops, and then we go to a video package looking at the new faces coming to RAW. We see Lars Sullivan, Lacey Evans, Heavy Machinery, Nikki Cross, and EC3.

– Lio Rush and Bobby Lashley are in the ring with a broken guitar, and the spotlight is above them. They talk about Lashley bashing that guitar over Elias’ back at TLC. Lio says Lashley will give you true performance and true work of art, not like Elias. Lio tells everyone to silence their phones, hold their applause and shut their mouths, and then Lashley poses under the spotlight. Elias hits the ring from behind in the dark and he smashes a guitar over Lashley’s back. Lashley gets back on his feet and Elias heads back up the ramp.

– The Lucha House party is backstage getting ready to come out for their match.

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– We see a video package looking at Sami Zayn returning to RAW.

Lucha House Party vs. The Authors of Pain vs. The Revival vs. The B Team: Axel and Linda Dorado start this one off. Lince hits a dropkick, then Kalisto tags in for the double team. Dawson tags himself in slaps Kalisto across the face. Dawson and Kalisto trade blows in the middle now and Dawson gets the upper hand. Dorado and Rezar are legal now, and Rezar slams Dorado into the corner then hits some knees to the body. Wilder tags himself in and beats on Dorado. Axel tags in, but Dorado springboards off the ropes and hits a Stunner on him. Dallas and Kalisto come in, and Kalisto hits a cross body and a springboard corkscrew elbow off the middle rope. Dallas drops Kalisto, then Dawson tags in. Dallas hits a neckbreaker on Dawson for a two count. The aprons clear and chaos breaks loose in the ring. The dust settles and it’s down to Dawson and Dallas trade pin attempts. Wilder tags in and they hit the Shatter Machine on Dallas for the three count while everyone else is at ringside.

Winners: The Revival

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[live id=”glmss” data-sort-time=”1545101408686″]- Seth Rollins is backstage for an interview. Rollins says last night was a disaster for him, and everything went wrong. Rollins says he heard that crowd last night and everything they had to say – and that’s on him. Rollins says he has to own that and go forward. He says this is what he has dedicated his life to, and he’s going to right his ship by ending Dean Ambrose. Baron Corbin walks in and interrupts. Corbin blames Rollins for speaking up and getting Corbin fired. Corbin says Rollins is the reason the McMahons are back in charge. Corbin continues to talk trash, so Rollins decks him with a right hand. [/live]

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– Still to come: Ronda Rousey is in the house.

– RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey comes out to the ring, and she’s got mic. Ronda talks about her dealing with Nia Jax, Charlotte and Becky Lynch, and getting even with them last night at TLC. Ronda says a real champion is more than a title in your name or an object in your hands – a real champion lives for the challenge and is the best the human race has to offer. Ronda says there should be a new tradition – after every pay-per-view, the champions show up to RAW and defend their Title. Ronda issues an open challenge to anyone in the back, and she waits for someone to accept. We see backstage that the entire women’s roster arguing over who will get to go out to face Ronda. Stephanie says tonight there will be an eight-woman gauntlet match, and Ronda will have to face the winner. Stephanie introduces Alicia Fox and Bayley as the first two entries.

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8-Woman Gauntlet Match: The winner of this one faces Ronda for the RAW Women’s Title. Bayley starts off with a roll-up attempt on Alicia for a two count. Alicia fights back with strikes, but Bayley shuts her down with a belly to back suplex for a two count. Bayley starts selling a knee injury and Alicia strikes, but Bayley is able to roll up Alicia for the three count. Dana Brooke is out next, and she immediately starts working over Bayley and stomping on her. Dana starts working over Dana’s left knee now. Bayley comes back with a belly to belly suplex out of nowhere for the three count on Dana. Mickie James is in next. Mickie starts off strong and hits a swinging neckbreaker for a two count. Bayley starts to fight back, but Mickie shuts her down with a facebuster. Mickie goes to the top rope and she hits a splash for a two count. Bayley looks for a roll-up pin, but Mickie hits a kick to the face for another two count. Mickie hits a kick to the midsection and looks for a DDT, but Bayley reverses into a belly to back suplex. Bayley knees Mickie in the head, then she starts selling the knee injury gain. Bayley hits a splash, and then a running knee strike. Bayley goes to the top rope and hits the flying elbow. Bayley pins, but Mickie grabs the bottom rope to break the count. Bayley hits a neckbreaker, then she looks for the belly to belly suplex, but Mickie grabs her by the hair and Bayley backs off. Mickie targets Bayley’s knee, then hits a DDT for the three count. Ember Moon comes out next and goes at it with Mickie. Mickie hits a series of kicks off the bat, then she chokes Ember in the corner. Ember fights back, but Mickie blocks a kick and fires back with some strikes of her own. Mickie misses a shot, then Ember hits a springboard cross body for two count. Ember continues the offense and hits a series of kicks. Mickie fights back with a facebuster, then Mickie goes up to the top rope. Mickie goes flying off the top, but Ember hits her in mid-air with a knee. Ember goes up top and hits the Eclipse for the three count. Natalya comes out next and she immediately takes down Ember and looks for the Sharpshooter. Ember kicks her away, then boots her in the face for a two count. Natalya comes back and rolls up Ember for the three count, and Ember looks shocked. Ruby Riott is out next, and Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan are at ringside. Ruby drops Natalya and attempts a guillotine choke on the mat. Natalya fights up and slams Ruby down, then they both charge and clothesline each other down. Ruby gets up first and hits a knee to the face of Natalya for a two count. Natalya plays possum then slaps Ruby across the face and kicks her. Natalya hits a series of suplexes on Ruby, then throws her into the corner. Natalya looks for a spinning lariat, but Ruby ducks and throws Natalya down to the mat. Ruby Riott misses a shot off the turnbuckle and Natalya rolls her up for the three count. Sasha Banks is in next. Sasha starts off with a knee to the face of Natalya, then she hits more strikes. Sasha lays Natalya across the corner and hits a double knee strike for a two count. Natalya starts to fight back, but Sasha stuns her with a DDT For a two count. Natalya trips up Sasha and fights back with a running dropkick for a two count. Sasha fires back with a kick, but Natalya shuts her down with a clothesline for a two count. Natalya follows up with the Sharpshooter, but Natalya reaches the ropes and slams Natalya’s head into the turnbuckle. Sasha applies a single Boston crab, then she switches to the Banks Statement. Natalya fights out and hits a German suplex on Sasha. Banks fights back and hits a flying knee off the middle rope for a two count. Banks looks for the Banks Statement, but Natalya pulls her off by the hair. Banks looks for a DDT, but Natalya counters and slams Sasha down face-first. Natalya applies the Sharpshooter and Banks taps out.

Winner: Natalya

– Natalya now has a shot at Ronda Rousey’s RAW Women’s Title belt, and that match happens on next week’s RAW. Natalya checks on Sasha, and then Ronda Rousey comes out. Ronda rises Natalya’s hand and hugs her, then they shake hands. Natalya and Ronda head up the ramp together as RAW goes off the air. Cole announces Elias vs. Lashley for next week, plus an appearance from Paul Heyman, and Seth Rollins vs. Baron Corbin.

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“Farewell To The Elite” To Air Tonight On Honor Club

Ring of Honor has announced that a “Farewell to the Elite” video will air tonight on Honor Club. The popular faction bid farewell to the promotion on Saturday at a set of TV tapings.

The tapings were held inside the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia. The Elite is expected to take part in a multi-person tag-team match to end their ROH tenures on ROH TV.

Farewell to the Elite In Ring of Honor

There is some speculation at the moment that members of the Elite could still wrestle big shows with ROH next year. If the Elite continue in NJPW, they could take part in joint ROH/NJPW shows in 2019. Cody has made it clear, however, that he won’t be on the Madison Square Garden show this April.

“I can’t imagine me being on that particular show,” Cody told SI.com earlier this month. “After two ‘supercards’ and breaking my back essentially against Kenny last year, it still can’t change the fact that people are in town for WWE.”

Hangman Page, who had been with the promotion since the beginning of his career, had the following to say regarding his departure from ROH:

“I had my last ROH match this weekend,” Page Tweeted. “Showed up to their training school for a tryout as a scrawny 18-year-old. Made a lot of good friends and memories along the way. Thanks, everyone. Full speed ahead.”

Becky Lynch Issues Statement On WWE TLC Loss

Former WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Becky Lynch has broken her silence on losing the title.

“The Man” is dealing with the outcome of the main event of TLC pay-per-view event in San Jose, California as she lost the title to Asuka while also battling Charlotte Flair in the first-ever Women’s Triple Threat TLC Match once WWE RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey came out to the ring where she pushed Flair and Lynch off a ladder then left and walked to the backstage area. She took to her official Twitter account where she posted the following:

“Resilience and heart and passion got me up this morning, bandaged me, got me through a work out. But it was straight simple vengeance that made me promise to chase them all down. I agreed. It will be done.”

https://twitter.com/BeckyLynchWWE/status/1074752918111150080

She would later tweet in a response to a fan, “It’s not the title that made The Man, it was The Man who made that title. TBC.”

https://twitter.com/BeckyLynchWWE/status/1074754480070123520

It appears that Lynch will get her rematch clause put into place in order to get a shot at reclaiming the SmackDown Women’s Title against Asuka which could come as soon as the Royal Rumble pay-per-view event.

Billie Kay Possibly Injured At WWE House Show

Billie Kay was possibly injured at a WWE house show over the weekend. Kay was teaming with her Iiconics partner, Peyton Royce, and facing Noami and Lana at the event.

During the match, reports are that Noami and Kay bumped heads and Kay went down after. Further reports stated she had a dazed look on her face after.

Billie Kay did not finish the match and was seen being helped to the back by a trainer. Some users on Twitter captured her being taken to the back and posted it online:

Billie Kay, Peyton Royce, and Potential WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships

Earlier this fall, Billie Kay had the following to say regarding women’s tag-team championships in WWE.

“We have always spoken, and quite publicly, that we want to pioneer (a women’s tag division),” she said to TV Insider this fall. “We want to be part of this era of the women’s tag team division.”

Peyton Royce added in the following:

“We want to have a part of it when it does happen. I feel it will happen in time, so we want to have a positive influence on that.”

Speaking of the fondness she feels for her partner, Billie continued:

“When she is away from me, I feel like a chunk of me is gone. I know she feels the same way. So, when we come together…”

Peyton cut her off: “We feel complete. We really do. I feel like myself when I’m with Billie. She brings out the best in me and vice versa.”

You can read the full interview here.

Jay Lethal Vs Dalton Castle Announced For Honor Reigns Supreme

Ring of Honor has announced that Jay Lethal’s next title defense will be on January 13th in Concord. His opponent will be former ROH World Champion, Dalton Castle.

An ROH press release explained the booking decision as follows:

“With several competitors owed a title match,” the press release begins. “Castle earned the right to be first in line during the international television taping in Philadelphia over the weekend. Castle, who won the title from Cody at Final Battle 2017, holds a victory over Lethal, as he successfully defended the ROH World Title against him at the 16th Anniversary Show this past March.”

Lethal lost to Matt Taven at Final Battle 2018. He never received his title rematch after losing the belt in June, however.

Jay Lethal’s Ring of Honor World Championship Statistics

This match could be the last title defense for Lethal before he ties Samoa Joe’s record for combined days spent with the title on February 3rd. Lethal will tie Joe with 645 combined days spent as champion then. Joe earned all 645 days spent as champion during a single reign, whereas Lethal split his up amongst two different reigns.

If successful, Lethal’s defense against Dalton Castle would be his 37th split amongst his two reigns. It would bring him one behind the record of 38 tied between Nigel McGuiness and Bryan Danielson.

Akira Tozawa Heading to Japan for Fight Club: Pro Event in January

UK independent promotion Fight Club: Pro will be heading to Japan in January for their Project Tokyo event. The company announced earlier this year that they would be debuting in Korakuen Hall. The show takes place on January 7th with a huge card of international stars.

205 Live Superstar Akira Tozawa has now been announced for the event. Fight Club: Pro is owned by NXT UK Superstar Trent Seven. Seven was originally confirmed for this card but was recently pulled. Tyler Bate and Pete Dunne were also pulled from the event.

There had been speculation that FCP was part of the ‘greenlit’ promotions for NXT UK talent. The cancellation of British Strong Style’s involvement seemed to change this but with Tozawa on board as a potential ‘make good’ for the Japanese fans who really knows at this point. NXT UK will be holding a taping within 7 days of this event, that is why British Strong Style were reportedly pulled.

WWE Mae Young Classic competitor and Japanese legend Meiko Satomura will also be on the card. Satomura is the current FCP Champion and will likely defend her title on the show. Jun Kasai, CIMA, Daisuke Sekimoto, Chris Brookes, Jimmy Havoc and NXT UK’s Millie McKenzie are also seen on the show’s official poster.

Hangman Page Comments On His Last ROH Match

Adam “Hangman” Page wrestled his last match for Ring of Honor on Saturday. After losing an ROH TV title match to Jeff Cobb at Final Battle, Page’s last show with the promotion was Saturday’s TV tapings in Philadelphia.

“I had my last ROH match this weekend. Showed up to their training school for a tryout as a scrawny 18 year old. Made a lot of good friends and memories along the way. Thanks everyone. Full speed ahead.”

Adam “Hangman” Page’s ROH Run

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Page debuted with the company in 2011 after having been trained by Johnny Valiant. He is expected to be apart of the proposed All Elite Wrestling promotion next year.

Other members of the Elite have made similar comments regarding their last ROH matches recently.

Cody Tweeted out the following:

He has also made a point of mentioning he will not be at the Madison Square Garden show this spring, even as a member of the NJPW roster.

“After two ‘supercards’ and breaking my back essentially against Kenny last year, it still can’t change the fact that people are in town for WWE.,” Cody told SI.com last week.

“ROH and NJPW sold that building out and that is massive and special and I love that they did it, but had they did it on another weekend, I’d be more likely to be featured on it,” he continued. “After 10 years with WWE doing ’Mania weekend and two more with ROH, I am leaving that weekend for the boys and girls of the WWE.”

The Young Bucks sent out the following as well:

https://twitter.com/MattJackson13/status/1074310767070101505?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

“Leaving the territory. See you on the other side.”

Members of the Elite are believed to have participated in a multi-person tag at the ROH TV Tapings in Philadelphia on Saturday.

Ring Of Honor In 2019: What Will The Promotion Look Like?

Ring of Honor garnered attendance records, launched a streaming service, and broke new ground in 2018. Despite this, many fans are skeptical regarding ROH’s ability to build upon their most successful year ever as we enter 2019.

The reason some are pointing to in regards to skepticism the promotion can continue its string of success is that members of the Elite are departing the company. Cody, Hangman Page, and the Young Bucks won’t be on the ROH full-time roster next year. Marty Scurll’s contract with the promotion ends this spring as well.

Those who have followed ROH since the beginning are aware this is nothing new for the promotion, however. ROH has been built upon a foundation of wrestlers building up their names and then leaving. The only ones who never have are the Briscoes, and they seem to be just where they want to be.

ROH Roster In 2019

Out: The Young Bucks, Cody Rhodes and Adam “Hangman” Page.

In: Jeff Cobb, PCO, Brody King, Bandito and Mark Haskins

Granted, the talent in the “Out group” is considerable, but so is the talent in the “In Group”. One notable difference between those leaving and those coming in, however, is that ROH has brought in 3 heavyweights who spent much of this year wrestling each other on the independents. I attended a triple threat match between Jeff Cobb, PCO, and Brody King which took place for Smash Wrestling this year. They were all signed by ROH just a few months later.

There are also rumors that Bandido’s tag-team partner, Flamita could be on his way to ROH. The pair team as “Mexa Blood” and have won tag belts in Progress and the Crash.

In terms of popularity, losing the Elite is significant. In terms of in-ring talent, you can make the argument those coming in have just as much to offer as those who have left, however.

NWA and Ring of Honor

Nick Aldis and the NWA World Heavyweight Championship made an appearance Friday at Final Battle. Aldis applauded for Jay Lethal from the entrance ramp, all but letting the champion know he wants a title match.

The Aldis/NWA/ROH relationship we see in 2019 could be interesting as well. How it plays into what Billy Corgan and the NWA have planned is anyone’s guess at this point. Clearly, the two sides have come to an agreement to work together, however.

NJPW In Ring of Honor Next Year

One of ROH’s biggest draws is their relationship with NJPW. Every year ROH parades around a group of NJPW stars for their Global Wars or War of the Worlds tours. As NJPW continues to grow in popularity, so too will their joint shows with ROH, including this spring inside Madison Square Garden.

Zack Sabre Jr and Juice Robinson are two names ROH is expected to feature more of in the next calendar year. Even the 2019 version of NJPW’s Bullet Club, featuring members of the Firing Squad who kicked the Elite out, are possible for ROH next year. As both NJPW and ROH gear up for the Garden show in the first-quarter of 2019, expect NJPW stars to be a regular occurrence for ROH.

Wrestlers ROH Has Lost In the Past

Since 2002, ROH has hired good wrestlers who, for whatever reason, weren’t getting a shot elsewhere. Tyler Black, El Generico, Kevin Steen, and Bryan Danielson have all come and gone from Ring of Honor in addition to numerous others. Not only did the company keep moving forward after those departures, but they also grew, evolved, and got better. There is no reason to believe anything other than that will happen in 2019 as well.

Ric Flair Praises Charlotte, Asuka & Becky Lynch Following WWE TLC

Fans are still talking about the excellent match that served as the headliner of Sunday’s WWE TLC pay-per-view event that saw Asuka beat Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch in the first-ever Women’s Triple Threat TLC Match in order to win the SmackDown Women’s Title.

This match was an extremely memorable TLC match that saw the crowning of Asuka as the top talent in the SmackDown Women’s division. The fans wanted this match to be the main event and WWE officials gave into that demand which was a wise decision.

Although WWE Hall of Famer Ric Flair wasn’t in attendance to see this match live, he was watching on WWE’s streaming service and took to social media in order to praise them for their stellar performances in San Jose, CA. He wrote the following:

“Congratulations To @MsCharlotteWWE, @WWEAsuka, And @BeckyLynchWWE On One Of The GREATEST Performances I Have Ever Seen While Making History Last Night In Your TLC Match.”

“Going On Last With Names Like Orton, Rollins, Mysterio, Rousey, Jax… Is Pressure That Only Few Are Ever Fortunate Enough To Understand. You Ladies Not Only Followed Some Tremendous Bouts, But You Stole The Show. This Morning, I Bow Down To All Three Of You. WOOOOO!”

Vince McMahon ‘Furious’ Over WWE TLC Match

WWE’s final pay-per-view event of the year, TLC, is in the books and has been received well from their fans. However, there has been one match that has been a talking point among their fanbase which was the Intercontinental Title match between then-champion Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose, which served as the co-headliner of this show San Jose, CA.

It was positioned as a buffer between the WWE Title match that saw Daniel Bryan successfully retain his title over AJ Styles and the main event that saw Asuka win the SmackDown Women’s Title over Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch in the first-ever Women’s Triple Threat TLC Match.

Longtime pro wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter stated on Sunday’s Wrestling Observer Radio that WWE Chairman Vince McMahon “was furious” with it. Thus, fans weren’t the only ones who were upset with this contest that went 24 minutes.

This was a bit of a surprise as the poor reaction to this contest wasn’t expected as it served as the top program of Monday Night RAW over the last few weeks. To the point where during the match, fans chanted “this is boring” and “Becky.”

It appears that WWE will keep this feud going for at least another month as Rollins is expected to get a rematch against Ambrose for the title. With the current plan reportedly being Rollins vs. Brock Lesnar for the Universal Title at WrestleMania 35, it would make sense to wrap up this feud at the Royal Rumble. Also at this show, Lesnar will defend the WWE Universal Championship against Braun Strowman.

Mark Haskins Reportedly Signs With Ring of Honor

Mark Haskins has been touted as the latest signee for Ring of Honor. The company are currently bringing in some top independent talent as a way to offset the departure of The Elite (Young Bucks, Cody Rhodes and Hangman Page).

Haskins is one of the top stars in the UK not currently signed to NXT UK or World of Sport. The former PROGRESS Champion has been performing on cards across the United Kingdom for a number of years and is regarded as one of the stalwarts of the scene.

PW Insider reported that Haskins had signed around the recent Final Battle event. The backstage talk had apparently revolved around the UK star and his impending debut. The actual date for Haskins’ debut has not yet been confirmed and ROH have not made his signing public at the time of writing.

Haskins made his ROH debut earlier this year during the Honor United tour. Mark actually won the ROH International Cup in August, defeating Hangman Page in the final. The win earned Haskins a shot against Jay Lethal for the Ring of Honor Championship. This match took place at the London date for Honor Re-United where he was unsuccessful.

We interviewed Mark earlier this year, you can check that full interview out here.

Ronda Rousey On Her Bad Reputation, Triple H Congratulates Asuka

Ronda Rousey On Her Bad Reputation

WWE RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey had people talking as not only did she successfully retain her title over Nia Jax but also got involved in the headliner of Sunday’s (December 16th, 2018) WWE TLC pay-per-view event in San Jose, California at the SAP Center on the WWE Network.

In the main event, she came down to the ring where she helped Asuka beat Charlotte Flair and Becky Lynch in the first-ever Women’s Triple Threat TLC Match to win the SmackDown Women’s Title when she pushed Lynch and Flair off a ladder.

Now, there is speculation that this sets up a feud involving Rousey, Flair, and Lynch during the road to WrestleMania 35. Rousey tweeted the following about her bad reputation:

Rousey wrote, “I don’t give a damn ‘bout my bad reputation #AndStill.”

Triple H Congratulates Asuka

Speaking of Asuka, Triple H took to his Twitter account where he sent the following to congratulate Asuka following her win.

Triple H wrote, “For her, it was never about a streak or a number, it was about proving she was the best of every division she was ever a part of. Tonight, after a brutal #WWETLC match, the Empress of Tomorrow is the Champion of Today. Congratulations @WWEAsuka. #WeAreNXT.”

Braun Strowman Sets Sights On Brock Lesnar, Bobby Lashley Reacts To TLC Loss

Braun Strowman Sets Sights On Brock Lesnar

Braun Strowman has shifted his attention towards his next feud following his return at Sunday’s (December 16th, 2018) WWE TLC pay-per-view event in San Jose, California at the SAP Center on the WWE Network when he beat Baron Corbin in a TLC Match. This was after he had some help from Kurt Angle, Heath Slater, Finn Balor, Apollo Crews and RAW Tag Team Champions Bobby Roode & Chad Gable that resulted in the finish.

Now, he’ll challenge WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar for the strap at next month’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view event. After this show, WWE’s YouTube channel released this video with Strowman talking to Dasha Fuentes about TLC and his upcoming title match.

He later wrote the following on his official Twitter account, “and to think I beat you without lifting an arm. Next stop is #RoyalRumble … @BrockLesnar is gonna get these hands!!! #WWETLC #MonsterAmongSlings.”

https://twitter.com/BraunStrowman/status/1074472002214289408

Bobby Lashley Reacts To TLC Loss

Also at TLC, Elias scored a victory over Bobby Lashley in a Ladder Match. After this show, Lashley and Lio Rush were interviewed about the contest which featured Lashley stating that he won the war regarding back to the post-match attack where beat down Elias.

Reason Why The Rock Never Worked With Shawn Michaels

The Rock and Shawn Michaels are one of the biggest names in the professional wrestling industry, both having a decorated and illustrious career. Even though they worked in the WWE together, we never got to see a match between them, and since Rock has moved on from wrestling and Michaels has retired, it is safe to say that it will never happen.

On this Sunday’s Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer was asked a question from fan on this topic. Apparently, there were some problems in the dressing room between Rock and Michaels that started in the ’80s.

“There was a time when the Midnight Rockers were on a show in Hawaii and Rock’s grandmother was the promoter and I guess there were problems in the dressing room and Rock wanted to beat up Shawn. I think Shawn was acting like a d*ck,” said Meltzer.

Later in the WWF when Rock started gaining popularity Michaels was one of the people who didn’t want him to succeed, to protect Triple H. After The Rock started reaching heights in the company, he didn’t want to work with Shawn Michaels.

“Hunter and Rock were vying for the same spot. A lot of people saw that Rock had a lot of friends and he had a lot of potential. They wanted to make sure that he didn’t get there and he was smart enough to see that it happened. When he got to where he was a really big star, he didn’t want to work with him.”

Meltzer also revealed how Michaels was trying to get Mick Foley to take Rock’s place in the WrestleMania 15 match against Steve Austin. And it was not because they wanted Foley to succeed, it was pretty much only because they didn’t want The Rock in that match.

h/t to WrestlingNews.co for the transcription.

Asuka Claims She Is Now ‘The Man’

The Empress of Tomorrow has finally done it. Asuka won her first championship in the main roster last night when she came out on top of the first-ever triple threat Tables, Ladders and Chairs match involving Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair at TLC pay-per-view event.

The newest SmackDown Women’s Champion had some words to say when she was interviewed backstage after her match. She claimed she is now “The Man” and that nobody is ready for Asuka.

“Becky says she is The Man, Charlotte says she is The Man, but now I am The Man! Nobody is ready for Asuka!,” she exclaimed in excitement over her victory.

As for how Asuka won it, it was because of Raw Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey who interfered in the match and pushed Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair off a ladder, giving Asuka a chance to gain victory. The two losing women weren’t too happy with the outcome.

You can check out the video below:

Gauntlet Match Added To Wrestle Kingdom 13 Preshow

New Japan Pro Wrestling has announced that a 5-team gauntlet match will take place on the Wrestle Kingdom 13 preshow. The winners will earn a title match against the NEVER Openweight 6-Man tag-team championships.

The 5 teams NJPW has announced for the gauntlet match on the Wrestle Kingdom 13 preshow include:

  • Ryusuke Taguchi, Toru Yano, & Togi Makabe
  • Minoru Suzuki, Davey Boy Smith Jr., and Lance Archer
  • Jeff Cobb, Michal Elgin, & David Finlay
  • Chuckie T, Beretta, and Hirooki Goto
  • Marty Scurll, Hangman Page, and Yujiro Takahashi

Additionally, NJPW announced the following matches for the Fan Fest scheduled for January 3rd:

  • Tiger Mask & Jushin Liger vs Yuya Uemura & Ren Narita
  • Yuji Nagata & Manabu Nakanishi vs Toa Henare & Tomoaki Honma
  • Satoshi Kojima & Hiroyoshi Tenzan vs Shota Umino & Ayato Yoshida

https://twitter.com/THEdavidfinlay/status/1074534981211439104

Wrestle Kingdom 13 Lineup

  • IWGP Heavyweight Championship
    Kenny Omega (c) vs Hiroshi Tanahashi
  • IWGP Intercontinental Championship
    Chris Jericho (c) vs Tetsuya Naito
  • Kazuchika Okada vs Jay White
  • IWGP Junior Heavyweight Championship
    KUSHIDA (c) vs Taiji Ishimori
  • IWGP United States Championship
    Cody (c) vs Juice Robinson
  • RevPro British Heavyweight Championship
    Tomohiro Ishii (c) vs Zack Sabre Jr.
  • IWGP Tag Team Championships
    Guerrillas of Destiny (c) vs The Young Bucks vs. EVIL and SANADA
  • IWGP Junior Heavyweight Tag Team Championships
    Yoshinobu Kanemaru and El Desperado (c) vs Roppongi 3K vs BUSHI and Shingo Takagi
  • IWGP NEVER Openweight Championship
    Kota Ibushi (c) vs Will Ospreay

Watch What Happened After TLC Went Off The Air

As noted before, Asuka walked out of the Tables, Ladders and Chairs pay-per-view event last night as the WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion, in the main event match which also saw interference by Raw Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey.

In a video released by WWE, we get a glimpse at what happened after the match when TLC went off the air:

As Charlotte Flair was making her way back to the ring, we see Becky Lynch angry over the interference by Ronda Rousey which cost both the competitors the title.

Charlotte Flair herself was not too happy with the outcome, and understandably so.

During the match, Ronda Rousey interfered by pushing Becky and Charlotte off a ladder which gave Asuka the chance to win the match.

“I will be back, I will be back, I will be back!” an emotional Becky Lynch proclaims on the ramp whilst making her way backstage.

While as of this writing there is no news on when Becky Lynch will get her rematch for the title, it seems like it could be coming soon. We could see a rematch this Tuesday on SmackDown Live or on the Royal Rumble, whenever it is, we’ll keep you updated.

Bandido Signs With Ring Of Honor

Ring of Honor has signed popular luchador, Bandido. Bandido and ROH have reached an agreement and his debut is expected in early 2019. The news was first reported by Lucha Blog and has since been confirmed by f4wonline.com.

The 23-year-old has been making a name for himself recently in AAA and the Crash promotions in Mexico. He was also recently booked in the main event of the Elite’s All In as well. Bandido frequently teams with Flamita under the name “Mexa Blood”. The team is former tag champions in both the Crash and Progress.

ROH Free Agent Signings

Bandito is another strong signing for Ring of Honor as the company looks to regroup headed into 2019. The recent departures of Cody Rhodes, the Young Bucks and Adam “Hangman” Page could have been a devastating blow, but Ring of Honor has been aggressively rebuilding its talent

ROH COO Joe Koff recently addressed the promotion’s ability to replace leaving stars. He listed several names he feels will be the nucleus for the promotion in the coming months:

“Marty [Scurll] is up in there. Jay Lethal is up in there. Jeff Cobb is an extremely exciting performer, I love watching him. Flip Gordon. Matt Taven. I could probably go deeper than five,” he said.

In addition to Bandito, Ring of Honor has recently signed PCO, Brody King and we’re told a top UK star will be the next announcement.

DEFIANT Wrestling Announce New General Manager

DEFIANT Wrestling has announced the identity of their new General Manager. Prince Ameen was revealed as the company’s new GM during their second episode of the rebooted Loaded programme on YouTube.

Loaded is a free-to-air programme on YouTube that features many of the top talent from the UK independent scene.The show has seen many iterations over the past few years. DEFIANT sent out the following press release for the return back in September:

Loaded previously ran for 33 episodes between July 2016 and October 2017, amassing over 25 MILLION views on YouTube. Loaded, at that time, ran under the WCPW (What Culture Pro Wrestling) banner, with WCPW since rebranded as Defiant Wrestling in late 2017 following a diversification from the What Culture brand.”

The company also recently announced that PAC will be making his debut for the company in 2019. The former WWE Cruiserweight Champion is confirmed for the first two dates of 2019’s ‘Loaded’ tapings.

6 Takeaways From WWE TLC 2018

WWE TLC 2018 aired live from the SAP Center in San Jose, California. For the full PPV results, click here. Here are 6 takeaways from WWE TLC 2018:

The Bar Retained The SmackDown Tag Team Championships

The Bar defended their SmackDown Tag Team Championships against New Day and The Usos in a Triple Threat match at WWE TLC 2018.

The Usos took out everyone with a flurry of Superkicks and then planted Kingston with a Samoan Drop. Jey Uso hit Kofi with a Frog Splash but Cesaro got into the ring and launched Jey into the ring post. Cesaro went for the cover on Kofi but Kingston kicked out at two. Woods hit Sheamus with an Elbow Drop off the top rope but the pinfall was broken up at two. Sheamus wound up hitting Xavier Woods with the Brogue Kick to retain the titles for The Bar.

This match was decent, but we’ve all seen these teams put forth a much better effort. The crowd wasn’t all that into this match and it is hard to blame them. I have seen enough of these three teams at the top of the division. The Bar retained but there isn’t really an interesting feud for them to have right now on SmackDown.

Baron Corbin Is No Longer The RAW GM

RAW GM Baron Corbin squared off against Braun Strowman tonight at WWE TLC 2018. Heath Slater was the referee for the match. If Corbin lost the match, he would no longer be the GM of RAW. Braun Strowman had not been seen on RAW since Corbin, Lashley, and McIntyre brutally attacked him a few weeks back.

Strowman came down to the ring with his arm in a sling. Braun noted that Corbin forgot that there are no disqualifications in a TLC match and said that there was somebody that wanted to help him. Apollo Crews, Bobby Roode, Chad Gable, and Finn Balor surrounded the ring. Heath Slater took off his referee shirt and threw it at Corbin’s face.

Corbin tried to retreat up the entrance ramp but former RAW GM Kurt Angle showed up on the entrance ramp. Angle hit Corbin with a steel chair several times until Baron got back into the ring. Everyone took turns beating the hell out of Corbin before Kurt hit him with the Angle Slam. Balor followed it up with the Coup de Grace as Heath put his official’s shirt back on. Strowman placed his boot on Corbin for the pinfall victory. Braun Strowman now has a Universal Championship match against Brock Lesnar at the Royal Rumble PPV next month.

RAW was just as terrible with Kurt Angle as the GM in my opinion, so this was completely meaningless to me. I’m not sure how anyone could be excited about another Braun Strowman versus Lesnar match either. WWE could have put the belt on Strowman before, but instead, they decided to awkwardly turn him heel in a feud against Roman Reigns and The Shield. Now, I’m not nearly as invested in Braun Strowman as a character on RAW. I will say that this segment was entertaining. Everyone that Corbin had screwed over recently as the GM got some revenge tonight and it was a clever way to work around Braun Strowman’s injury.

Ronda Rousey Tapped Out Nia Jax In A Solid Match

Ronda Rousey defended her RAW Women’s Championship against Nia Jax tonight. Tamina was ringside for the match. Rousey started off the match by hopping around the ring and avoiding every strike Nia attempted. Jax finally caught her and hit a Powerbomb for a two count. Jax followed it up with an Elbow Drop and went for the cover but Ronda kicked out at two.

Rousey battled back and was able to lock in the Arm Bar but Nia quickly grabbed the bottom rope. Jax then dragged Ronda out of the ring and hurled her into the barricade as Tamina applauded ringside. Back in the ring, Nia charged at Ronda in the corner but Rousey got out of the way and Jax crashed into the ring post. Rousey made her way to the top rope and connected with a Crossbody on Nia outside the ring.

Rousey brought Nia back inside and went for the cover but Jax kicked out at two. Ronda went for another Crossbody but Nia caught her and hit the Samoan Drop for a near fall. Jax lifted Ronda onto her shoulders and climbed up to the middle rope. Ronda escaped and connected with a Powerbomb for a two count. Ronda then locked in the Arm Bar for the submission victory.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1074485776027713541

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1074486908242280449

After the match, Becky Lynch confronted Jax backstage and punched her in the face.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1074487909816983553

The build-up to this match was not good at all, but to their credit, Jax and Rousey put on a solid match tonight. Rousey has improved a ton since joining WWE when it comes to her in-ring work. I honestly was expecting this match to be a disaster based on the build, but it wound up being fine. I have absolutely no idea where Nia Jax goes from here.

The New Daniel Bryan Is Still WWE Champion

WWE Champion Daniel Bryan defended the title against AJ Styles tonight at WWE TLC 2018. Bryan spent the beginning of the match rolling out of the ring to try and avoid Styles. Daniel finally got inside the ring and dominated for several minutes. AJ finally battled back and turned Bryan inside out with a massive Clothesline out of the corner.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1074492332337233922

Styles connected with a Dragon Screw and then went to work on Bryan’s knee. AJ locked in a Half Crab but Bryan countered into the LeBell Lock in the middle of the ring. AJ broke free and dropped Daniel with the Pele Kick. AJ followed it up with the springboard 450 Splash and went for the cover but Bryan kicked out at the last second.

AJ locked in the Calf Crusher in the middle of the ring. Bryan screamed in agony but was able to reach the bottom rope to break the hold. Daniel then rolled out of the ring and grabbed his left leg in pain as the crowd shouted: “this is awesome!”. AJ followed Bryan out there and connected with a Phenomenal Forearm off the barricade. Styles rolled Bryan back inside and went for another Phenomenal Forearm but Daniel avoided it. AJ went for a roll-up but Bryan countered into a roll-up of his own for the pinfall victory.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1074496329202700288

AJ Styles and Daniel Bryan put on a terrific match tonight. Bryan has been excellent as a heel and I’m looking forward to seeing who his next opponent is. Styles will be hovering around the WWE Championship picture as long as he is on SmackDown and you won’t hear me complain if we see these two Superstars compete again for the belt down the line.

Dean Ambrose Captured The Intercontinental Championship In Boring Fashion

Seth Rollins put his Intercontinental Championship on the line against Dean Ambrose tonight at WWE TLC 2018. The match started off at a painfully slow pace with Ambrose in control. Ambrose hit a Neckbreaker and tried to pin Rollins three times but Rollins kicked out at two every time.

Ambrose targetted Rollins’ knee with a Dropkick and locked in a Cloverleaf submission in the center of the ring. Seth was able to reach the bottom rope to break the hold and then rolled to the ring apron. Seth battled back and connected with a Slingblade and then a Blockbuster off the second rope.

Rollins battled through the pain in his injured knee and hit Ambrose with a Buckle Bomb for a near fall. Ambrose battled back with a Facebuster for a two count. Rollins hit the Superplex and then the Falcon Arrow for another near fall. Ambrose tried to do The Shield’s fist bump but Rollins declined. Seth knocked Ambrose to the outside and Powerbombed him into the barricade.

Seth brought Ambrose back inside the ring and said: “this is for Roman Reigns you piece of sh*t”. Rollins went for The Stomp but Ambrose countered into the Dirty Deeds for the pinfall victory. Dean Ambrose is the new Intercontinental Champion.

I could not believe how terrible this match was. Ambrose turning heel was an awesome moment on RAW several weeks back, but since then this feud has been complete garbage. I thought it would still at least lead to a fight tonight, instead, we got a match that was incredibly boring.

I did not anticipate watching Rollins sell a knee injury for twenty minutes tonight. Despite the atrocious build, I was still looking forward to a good match between these two Superstars. This match didn’t come close to being remotely entertaining and now Dean Ambrose is the Intercontinental Champion, despite being a complete bore on RAW since turning heel.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1074505227578023936

Ronda Rousey Handed Asuka The SmackDown Women’s Championship

Becky Lynch defended the SmackDown Women’s Championship against Charlotte Flair and Asuka in the first-ever women’s TLC Match. Asuka Powerbombed Charlotte through a table and made her way up the ladder. Becky connected with a Dropkick to Asuka off the top rope but Asuka responded with a Hip Attack that sent Lynch out of the ring.

Flair took out Asuka and Lynch with a Moonsault off the top rope and then set up a table. Lynch got up and started swinging a steel chair. Flair booted it out of her hands and slammed Becky into the barricade. Lynch battled back and set up Asuka and Charlotte on top of the announce table. Becky climbed up a gigantic ladder and went for a Leg Drop but Asuka got out of the way. Lynch landed directly on Charlotte’s ribs and then bounced to the floor.

Asuka got back into the ring and started making her way up the ladder. Becky climbed up on the opposite side and the two started trading shots. Flair got into the ring and bashed them both with a kendo stick several times.

https://twitter.com/totaldivaseps/status/1074511062219845633

Lynch hit Charlotte with an Exploder Suplex outside of the ring. Asuka beat the hell out of Lynch with the kendo stick and then posed against the barricade. Charlotte Flair came out of nowhere and hit Asuka with a Spear that sent her crashing through the barricade. Becky and Charlotte started trash talking in the ring before trading punches.

Flair brought Becky out of the ring and hit a bunch of chops to her midsection. Charlotte set Becky up on top of a table and then slapped her in the face before climbing up the turnbuckle. Charlotte hit Lynch with an epic Cannonball through the table from off the top turnbuckle.

Charlotte made her way back inside the ring and set up the ladder under the title. Asuka rushed back in and climbed up the opposite side of the ladder. Flair and Asuka traded shots on the top of the ladder as Lynch set up another ladder right next to them. Charlotte knocked Asuka to the canvas and then traded punches with Becky.

Ronda Rousey came down to the ring and shoved over the ladder with Becky and Charlotte on it. Lynch and Flair fell to the canvas as Asuka climbed her way up the ladder. Asuka grabbed the title to become the new SmackDown Women’s Champion.

This was a terrific main event. Vince McMahon will appear on tomorrow night’s episode of RAW in order to “shake things up”. I figured that Becky would drop the title tonight but I thought it would be to Charlotte Flair. However we wind up there, the main event of WrestleMania should be Ronda Rousey vs. Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte. As for Asuka, she has been wasting away on SmackDown and it is great to see her as the champion again. Overall, WWE TLC 2018 was a mixed bag. The main event and Bryan vs. Styles were the only matches that were memorable.

Asuka Wins SmackDown Women’s Title At WWE TLC

Asuka has captured her first championship on the main roster. The former NXT Women’s Champion is your new SmackDown Women’s Champion after defeating Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair in the first ever Women’s TLC match at Sunday night’s TLC pay-per-view from San Jose, California.

Lynch defeated Flair at the Hell in a Cell pay-per-view in San Antonio, Texas on September 16, 2018 to win the title, which marked her second reign as champion. There have been 11 reigns between 7 champions and 1 vacancy in the history of the title. Asuka is also a former WWE NXT Women’s Champion but up to this point, had never won gold on the main roster.

As of this writing, WWE has yet to announce when Lynch will get her rematch for the title. It could come as soon as this Tuesday’s episode of SmackDown Live Fresno, CA at the Save Mart Center on the USA Network or WWE’s next PPV event, Royal Rumble. This show goes down on Sunday, January 27, 2019 in Phoenix, Arizona at Chase Field.

What are your thoughts on winning the title and this title change? Was it the right time to do this by WWE? Sound off in the comment section.

Dean Ambrose Wins Intercontinental Title At WWE TLC

Dean Ambrose is a champion yet again. Ambrose beat his former Shield-brother, Seth Rollins, to win the Intercontinental Title at Sunday’s (December 16th, 2018) WWE TLC pay-per-view event in San Jose, California at the SAP Center on the WWE Network.

Rollins won the title by defeating Dolph Ziggler at the SummerSlam pay-per-view event on August 19, 2018, in Brooklyn, New York, which made him the 166th champion in the history of the title. There have been 80 different champions with Chris Jericho having the most reigns with nine.

Two months ago, Ambrose and Rollins beat Drew McIntyre and Dolph Ziggler to win the RAW Tag Team Titles. However, after the match, Ambrose turned heel by attacking Rollins.

Now, with Roman Reigns being out of action, this feud between the RAW Tag Team Champions has been the top program on the flagship show of the company. Rollins would later lose the titles to Authors of Pain. WWE is already advertising Ambrose vs. Rollins for upcoming live events including the final episode of RAW before WrestleMania 35 that goes down on April 1st from the Capital One Arena in Washington, DC. Thus, it appears that this feud will continue past TLC.

What are your thoughts on Ambrose winning the title and this title change? Was it the right time to do this by WWE? Sound off in the comment section.