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3 Reasons SmackDown is a Better TV Show than WWE RAW

WWE SmackDown has been the superior show as of late and there are several reasons that is the case.

SmackDown flows better and features some of today’s biggest stars in professional wrestling. WWE RAW is overly long and lacks the star power to carry the three hours it asks of the viewer to stay engaged.

  • 5 Ways Triple H Can Improve WWE RAW

Here are three ways WWE SmackDown is a better TV Show than RAW:

The Titles

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns rarely makes an appearance on RAW but WWE just announced that The Tribal Chief will be making a special appearance on tonight’s show.

The United States and the RAW Women’s Championships are currently the most important titles on the red brand. Bobby Lashley was an admirable US Champion before Seth, but the title hasn’t been built up enough to carry a brand.

Gunther and Sheamus have helped elevate the Intercontinental Championship on SmackDown to a new level with their excellent rivalry. The Celtic Warrior and The Ring General put on an instant classic at WWE Clash at the Castle and followed it up with a solid rematch on a recent episode of SmackDown.

There should be a mid-card and main title for superstars to fight for on the red brand. Instead, there a whole bunch of superstars with nothing else to do besides chase the 24/7 Champion around or wrestle in tag team matches with no prospect of a title match against The Usos.

Roman Reigns is approaching 800 days as Undisputed WWE Universal Champion. The idea of one dominant champion sounds good on paper. However, Reigns isn’t a full-time superstar anymore and there isn’t enough star power on RAW to fill three hours.

It may be time to consider splitting the WWE and Universal Championships once again and make someone a star with a victory over The Tribal Chief.

The Stars

As stated above, the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion and Undisputed Tag Team Champions rarely appear on RAW.

The Bloodline has become the most popular act in professional wrestling. Every time they are on screen on Friday nights, they must watch television.

The ongoing friction between Jey Uso and Sami Zayn is highly entertaining to watch and most fans can’t wait to see how the story plays out. They just simply don’t have to tune in on Monday nights to find out.

WWE has had members of The Bloodline appear on RAW occasionally but they aren’t doing it enough. It is hard to imagine any fans complaining about seeing more of the Honorary Uce or upcoming star Solo Sikoa on the red brand more often.

In addition to The Bloodline, Bray Wyatt is also on the SmackDown roster. The wildly successful ‘White Rabbit’ teaser campaign captured the WWE Universe’s imagination for weeks leading up to Bray’s return at Extreme Rules.

Now, the story is getting even more interesting on Friday nights. “Uncle Howdy” interrupted Bray and called him a liar to end this past week’s edition of SmackDown on an intriguing note. If Bray Wyatt piques your interest, you don’t have to watch RAW on Monday nights at the moment to stay up to date with the storyline.

The Time

Yes, WWE RAW remains an hour too long. It is unlikely to change any time soon, as the extra hour leads to extra revenue. However, the difference between how RAW and SmackDown flows as a television show is jarring.

There often is a point during every episode of RAW where it becomes a slog or a chore to watch for the viewer. It might be the weekly thirty-minute Baron Corbin match with JBL on commentary for some, or it might be an edition of Miz TV, a 24/7 Championship segment, etc.

It is a lot to ask for a viewer to sit through every week. A three-hour show on Monday, a two-hour show on Tuesday, and another two-hour show on Friday is a lot of content for WWE fans to consume on a weekly basis, and that isn’t even factoring in the premium live events.

RAW dropping an hour would instantly eliminate a lot of the filler that hampers the show. The backstage interview with a superstar that has already cut a promo in the ring earlier in the night that provides nothing of substance won’t be necessary anymore. The entire 24/7 Championship scene can be eliminated or banished to YouTube where it belongs.

Two hours on a Monday night would force the company to focus on the stars that are more important. There will be fewer multi-superstar matches that go multiple commercial breaks just to fill time.

WWE SmackDown features the same high-profile stars on a weekly basis. RAW is an hour too long and lacks the names to provide enough reason for a casual fan to stick around the duration of the show.

Britt Baker, Jade Cargill, & AEW Stars Call Out Wrestling Podcaster

The AEW women’s locker room and wrestling podcaster JDfromNY206 have gotten into a war of words today on Twitter.

JD has been a vocal critic in the internet wrestling community for years now. His “Off the Script” podcast has become quite popular and sometimes his opinions garner a response from the wrestlers themselves.

Alexa Bliss recently responded to JD’s podcast after he criticized her main eventing an episode of WWE RAW with IYO SKY.

Britt Baker, Jade Cargill & The AEW Women’s Locker Room Respond To JDfromNY

Earlier today, popular wrestling podcaster JDfromNY responded to the announcement that Marina Shafir will battle Jade Cargill this Wednesday on Dynamite. He had a negative reaction to the match and Jade Cargill responded to him.

A wrestling fan sent a question to JD wondering if the wrestlers don’t realize that he is talking about the characters they play and not them personally. JD claimed that they do not realize that and Britt Baker responded with a screen shot of JD personally criticizing her.

This you? You’ve been pushing this narrative for months. Nothing to do with the character I play on TV. You don’t know me and you have no idea what goes on behind the scenes. You can judge the wrestler you see on TV, but not the person behind it.

TBS Champion Jade Cargill had some more words for JD after he criticized her for insulting him.

Better insults? Like what? Like I’ll buy your whack ass podcast IN REAL LIFE??!Don’t f*** with my coworkers. It’s 11:44a on a SUNDAY and I wake up to you trying to sh** on someone. Don’t sh** on anyone when I doubt your ass can do a pull up on your BEST DAY

AEW star Rebel added that their response is not just about a singular post and claimed that he has a history of slander.

He’s not a Victim. Opinions are one thing. This is not about a singular post, he has a history of insults, False accusations, defamation, slander and libel. Enough is enough.

Sonny Kiss added that it is hilarious for JD to try and play the victim now that someone has responded to his criticism.

Jimmy Uso Praises Ava Raine & Says She is Ready to Represent The Bloodline

Ava Raine debuted in Joe Gacy’s Schism faction on a recent episode of NXT.

Ava stated that Schism is her family and posed with the group at the end of her debut. Raine cut a promo a WWE Live Event over the summer. She referred to herself as “The Final Girl” during the promo.

The 21-year-old began training at the WWE Performance Center in 2020. She is the daughter of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, the grandaughter of Rocky Johnson, and great granddaughter of Peter Maivia.

Jimmy Uso Praises Ava Raine

TMZ Sports recently caught up with The Bloodline’s Jimmy Uso and asked him about Ava Raine’s debut in NXT. Jimmy said that he is ready to see her “pop off and represent The Bloodline”.

Shout out to her, you now what I’m saying. Anyway the family can get it I’m all for it. I’m ready to see what she do. I’m ready for her to pop off and represent The Bloodline.

Jimmy added that The Bloodline always looks out for each other and the whole family is behind her.

We all family, bro. We all look out for (each other). She’s got the whole squad on her side, the whole family bro. Her dad (The Rock), us, the cousins, she can reach out and we got it.

He said that the door is always open in The Bloodline for Ava Raine if she wants to join the group down the line and said the sky is the limit for her career.

It’s always an open door and we’ll keep it at that. The sky is the limit. You’ve got to put your work in here.

I’m sure she’s got the workhorse in her like we all do.

It runs deep in the blood and I’m excited for her future. I can’t wait to see where this takes her.

“It’s Going to be Good” – WWE Legend Previews Roman Reigns vs. Logan Paul at Crown Jewel

The Tribal Chief Roman Reigns is scheduled to defend the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship this Saturday against Logan Paul at WWE Crown Jewel.

Logan will challenge for the title in just the third match of his WWE career. Roman Reigns is heading into the match a heavy favorite and will likely leave the premium live event as still the champion.

The 27-year-old debuted at SummerSlam with The Miz in a victory over The Mysterios in a tag team match. The Miz turned on him after the match and Logan defeated the A-Lister at this year’s SummerSlam PLE in Nashville.

  • 5 Opponents for Roman Reigns After WWE Crown Jewel

Jim Cornette Previews The Undisputed WWE Universal Championship Match at Crown Jewel

Jim Cornette recently discussed the upcoming title match on episode 455 of The Jim Cornette Experience.

The 61-year-old said that he is looking forward to the match and complimented Logan Paul on taking this seriously. Cornette added that this is another good match for the Saudi Arabia crowd because Logan is a big American celebrity.

It’s going to be good. Logan Paul takes this seriously and he’s a very prideful person.

He’s been training. We saw him do way better before than what he ought to of for his level of inexperience.

They’re not going to switch the belt but they’ve given Saudi Arabia for their 50 million dollars a big main event with somebody they can say, and truthfully so, is a big American celebrity.

It’s kind of a freak show match. In terms of a celebrity from YouTube who’s dabbled in other sports and now is in wrestling, but he can compete at a high level because he’s an athlete.

It doesn’t have to sell tickets because nobody thinks he’s going to win. They’ve tried to create the doubt, ‘well if I get one good shot’. Well, you know, but he’s not.

At least they are trying to create the doubt.

H/T: Sportskeeda Wrestling

Jim Cornette Claims Match at WWE Crown Jewel is Going to be “Rotten”

Omos and Braun Strowman are set to battle this Saturday night at WWE Crown Jewel.

Braun recently returned to the company and was confronted by the Nigerian Giant on a recent episode of SmackDown.

Strowman and Omos stood face-to-face and it was revealed that Braun is several inches shorter. WWE advertised the match on social media as “two giants” and MVP claimed that it was false advertising because Strowman is significantly shorter.

  • WWE Crown Jewel 2022 Preview

Jim Cornette Previews Omos vs. Braun Strowman at WWE Crown Jewel

Legendary wrestling manager and promoter Jim Cornette discussed the upcoming bout between Strowman and Omos on episode 455 of The Jim Cornette Experience.

Jim suggested that they keep the match short because it will likely be rotten. The 61-year-old added that Saudi Arabia is a good place to have this match because domestic fans would ridicule it.

Saudi Arabia is probably the best place, no pun, no joke, and no sh**.

If you go back through wrestling history, a big show in a foreign, and I’m talking foreign to the United States, if you are in Saudi Arabia right now I’m sorry.

But a big show in a foreign market, two giants, the people are just thrilled to see live wrestling and thrilled to see the stars in person.

They get two giants and it looks great on a poster, or whatever. It’s going to be hopefully short, and not necessarily sweet.

They’ll be there for a good time but not for a long time.

A domestic audience would sh** all over this because they see wrestling on a regular basis and it’s going to be rotten.

Because how can it not be?

H/T: Sportskeeda Wrestling

WWE Legend on Lesnar vs. Lashley at Crown Jewel: “I’m Looking Forward to Seeing it”

Brock Lesnar returned to WWE and attacked Bobby Lashley on a recent edition of WWE RAW.

The All Mighty was set to defend the US Title against Seth Rollins but Brock’s music hit instead. Lesnar marched to the ring and attacked the champion.

Seth Rollins then capitalized on a weakened Lashley and defeated him to become the United States Champion.

Bobby Lashley and Brock Lesnar battled at the Royal Rumble PLE earlier this year. Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns interfered in the match and The All Mighty picked up the victory.

  • WWE Crown Jewel 2022 Preview

Jim Cornette Previews Lesnar vs. Lashley at WWE Crown Jewel

Wrestling legend Jim Cornette previewed the upcoming match between Brock Lesnar and Bobby Lashley on episode 455 of The Jim Cornette Experience.

The 61-year-old noted that the crowd in Saudi Arabia will likely be behind Brock Lesnar, which is the exact opposite reaction that WWE is going for.

They suddenly had Brock reappear and switch heel out of nowhere.

He just beat the sh** out of Bobby Lashley, the babyface, and the people cheered madly while he did it.

So, unfortunately, I think they are probably going to cheer Brock against Lashley, even though it is supposed to be set up to be exactly the opposite.

Bobby was a stronger heel, and also could take care of himself better as a heel with the manager and the group, because he’s not an over-the-top personality.

They are going to gravitate to Lesnar because he’s a f***ing freak of various natures.

I’m looking forward to seeing it from an athletic standpoint, but I think it will probably accomplish exactly the opposite of what they apparently want, which was Brock to turn heel on Lashley.

H/T: Sportskeeda Wrestling

“My Heart is so Full” – Emma Thanks Fans After WWE Return on SmackDown

Ronda Rousey issued an Open Challenge last night for the SmackDown Women’s Championship and a familiar face answered the call.

Emma, outside of WWE known as Tenille Dashwood, returned to the company and challenged the champion. She was released from WWE in 2017 and spent several years in Impact.

The 33-year-old put up a good fight but in the end The Baddest Woman on the Planet locked in the Armbar for the submission victory to retain the SmackDown Women’s Championship.

Emma Thanks WWE Fans For Their Support

Following her shocking return to the company, Emma took to Twitter to send a message to the WWE Universe.

She revealed that she was heartbroken following her release from the company five years ago, but her heart is overwhelmed by the support she has now.

5 years ago today I was heartbroken feeling like my dream had come to an end. Today my heart is so full! I’m overwhelmed by the amount of support I have. You guys are the best. Now… I’ve got some unfinished business to take care of!@WWE

Former WWE Superstar Paige, now known as Saraya in All Elite Wrestling, reacted to Emma’s return to the company last night on SmackDown. Saraya tweeted out “proud of you sister” earlier today following Emma’s appearance on the blue brand.

Saraya debuted in All Elite Wrestling last month at Dynamite: Grand Slam at Arthur Ashe Stadium. The 30-year-old confronted Britt Baker and is scheduled to have a face-to-face interview with her on Dynamite with Renee Paquette serving as the moderator.

Gunther Reveals WWE Legend Disgusts Him Ahead of Title Match

Gunther is scheduled to defend the Intercontinental Championship against Rey Mysterio on Friday’s episode of WWE SmackDown.

Rey Mysterio was a member of the RAW roster until a couple of weeks ago. He approached Triple H backstage and tried to quit the company because he refused to fight his son, Dominik Mysterio, and The Judgment Day anymore.

The Game orchestrated a trade with the red brand and sent Baron Corbin to RAW in exchange for the WWE legend. Rey won a Fatal 4-Way on his first night on the blue brand to become #1 contender for the IC Title.

Karrion Kross was originally scheduled to be in the match but Drew McIntyre attacked him following losing to him in the Strap Match at WWE Extreme Rules.

Gunther Warns Rey Mysterio Ahead Of IC Title Match

Imperium (Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, Giovanni Vinci) appeared on The SmackDown LowDown this week ahead of the title match this Friday.

During the interview, The Ring General claimed that Rey Mysterio is a legend of the sport but the current version of him is despicable. Gunther added that Rey is in this business for himself while Imperium is in it for the greater good.

Rey Mysterio is a legend of this sport. But the version of him I see right now disgusts me. It’s despicable.

I’m glad he’s happy to be over here on SmackDown and he is having a good time.

And he wants to prove himself again but not at my expense. He’s running away from family issues.

That’s again a difference. He is in this for himself, we are in this for the greater good.

We are Imperium and to us the mat is sacred.

Sami Zayn Claims “Everything’s Fine” in The Bloodline

The Bloodline almost imploded last night on WWE SmackDown but Honorary Uce Sami Zayn saved the day.

Sami Zayn and Jey Uso argued at the beginning of the show until Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns made his way to the ring. SmackDown announcer Michael Cole stated “daddy’s here!” as The Tribal Chief made his way to the ring.

Roman Reigns told Sami and Jey to work out their differences and the Honorary Uce wanted a truce. Jey wasn’t interested at all and Zayn noted that Roman wants them to work togehter.

Jey shouted that he didn’t care what The Tribal Chief thought and the audience let out a collective gasp. The Great Liberator stepped in and calmed the situation down.

Sami suggested that Jey hasn’t been feeling very “Ucey” lately and the crowd started chanting the word as Roman and Jey Uso cracked up in the ring.

The Tribal Chief regained his composure and told Jey that if he doesn’t work things out with the Honorary Uce, he was going to rename him to Sami Uso. The camera then cut to an elated Sami Zayn standing behind the Head of the Table.

Despite the growing tension within The Bloodline, the group appears to be on the same page once again. Earlier today, Honorary Uce Sami Zayn took to Twitter to ensure fans that everything is fine within The Bloodline.

Everything’s fine.

Time will tell if The Bloodline are on the same page or not. The Usos are scheduled to defend their Undisputed Tag Team Championships against The Brawling Brutes at Crown Jewel. The Bloodline recently brutally attacked Sheamus on an episode of SmackDown.

  • WWE Crown Jewel 2022 Preview

Bayley Delivers Warning Ahead of WWE Crown Jewel: “I will be the Last One Standing”

Bayley and Bianca Belair have been involved in a bitter rivalry that began last year.

The Role Model was scheduled to face The EST at Money in the Bank 2021 but tore her ACL training before the match.

She returned at this year’s SummerSlam premium live event alongside Dakota Kai and IYO SKY. The trio has become known as Damage CTRL in the company. Dakota and IYO are the current Women’s Tag Team Champions.

Bayley battled Bianca in a Ladder Match at Extreme Rules but came up short and The EST retained the RAW Women’s Championship. The two clashed once again on this past Monday’s edition of RAW in a non-title match.

Nikki Cross is no longer almost a superhero and interfered in the match. Bayley capitalized on the interference and pinned the champion. Nikki then attacked Bayley after the match as well.

WWE announced last night during SmackDown that the two rivals will battle once again on November 5th at Crown Jewel. Bianca Belair will put the RAW Women’s Championship on the line against Bayley in a Last Woman Standing match at the premium live event in Saudi Arabia.

  • WWE Crown Jewel 2022 Preview

Ahead of the big title match, Bayley took to Twitter to deliver a message to the RAW Women’s Champion. The Role Model be the last woman standing at Crown Jewel. The 33-year-old noted they are continuing to grow the roles of a woman in Saudi Arabia in her post.

In a time and place where we are ever growing the roles of a woman, I will be the last one standing vs @BiancaBelairWWE. #WWECrownJewel

“Proud of You Sister” – Saraya Congratulates WWE Superstar After Return on SmackDown

Emma made her return to WWE last night at SmackDown. Ronda Rousey issued an Open Challenge for the SmackDown Women’s Championship and Emma answered the call.

The 33-year-old put up a good fight but in the end The Baddest Woman on the Planet retained via submission after locking in the Armbar.

Ronda was supposed to have the Open Challenge last week on SmackDown but decided not to as an insult to the fans.

Saraya Congratulates Emma on Her WWE Return

Saraya, formerly known as Paige in WWE, took to Twitter to congratulate Emma on her return. Paige and Emma were instrumental in beginning the Women’s Revolution in WWE, along with The Four Horsewomen.

Proud of you sister @TenilleDashwood

Saraya debuted for All Elite Wrestling at Dynamite: Grand Slam. The 30-year-old arrived after Toni Storm retained the AEW Interim Women’s Championship in a Fatal 4-Way.

After the match, Britt Baker, Jamie Hayter, Rebel, and Serena Deeb attacked Toni Storm and Athena in the ring. Saraya’s music hit and she made her way down the entrance ramp as the heels retreated.

Former AEW Women’s Champion Britt Baker and Saraya recently brawled on Dynamite and may be setting up a match for November 19th at Full Gear. Britt and Saraya are set for an interview moderated by Renee Paquette on next week’s episode of Dynamite.

7 Takeaways From AEW Rampage (10/28): TNT Title Match, Billy Gunn Kidnapped, Jon Moxley

AEW Rampage aired live tonight from the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. Wardlow defended the TNT Championship against ROH’s Matt Taven in the main event.

Rampage Results

  • Jon Moxley def. Matt Menard in a World Title Eliminator match
  • Keith Lee def. Serpentico
  • Tay Melo def. Madison Rayne
  • Wardlow def. Matt Taven to retain the TNT Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Jon Moxley Picked Up a Win, Will Battle Lee Moriarty Next Week on Dynamite

AEW World Champion Jon Moxley battled Matt Menard in a World Title Eliminator match tonight. If Matt won, he would get a future shot at the AEW World Championship.

Menard got in some offense early and kept the champion on the mat. Jon battled back and got Matt in the Bulldog Choke for the submission victory. Jon will defend the AEW World Championship against MJF next month at Full Gear.

Stokely Hathaway and Lee Moriarty interrupted and boasted about The Firm’s attack on Moxley. Stokely suggested that Moxley battle Lee Moriarty next week on Dynamite and rolled highlights of Lee’s career. Moxley accepted the challenge and claimed that Lee will never be the same after their match.

#1 Contender Tournament Announced

A tournament was announced to determine the next number one contender. The winner of the tournament will receive a title shot at Dynamite: Winter is Coming. The finals will take place at AEW Full Gear on November 19th. Dante Martin was the first wrestler announced for the tournament.

Keith Lee Dominated, Swerve Strickland Kidnapped Billy Gunn

Keith Lee faced Serpentico tonight on Rampage. The match was over in a matter of moments after Keith connected with a Powerbomb for the pinfall victory.

Tony Schiavone was about to interview Keith Lee when The Acclaimed interrupted. Bowens apologized that there was no rap tonight because they have a problem that Keith Lee might have the answer to.

The AEW Tag Team Champions said that Billy Gunn is missing and wondered where Swerve Strickland was. Swerve Strickland showed up on the jumbotron and revealed that he has kidnapped Daddy Ass Billy Gunn. Strickland had an interrogation light on Billy Gunn. Swerve said he’s going to make sure Billy Gunn will not be at Full Gear to interfere in the match.

Strickland pulled out some pliers and attacked Billy as The Acclaimed sprinted backstage. Ketih Lee stood in shock to end the segment. The Acclaimed will defend the AEW Tag Team Championships against Swerve in Our Glory at Full Gear on November 19th.

Jade Cargill Warned Nyla Rose

Jade Cargill did pull-ups while cutting a promo on Nyla Rose. Cargill stated that while Nyla is at home eating chips with her title, she is setting out to prove to everyone why she is “that b****”. Nyla Rose recently stole Jade’s TBS Championship on last week’s episode of Rampage from Daily’s Place.

Tay Melo def. Madison Rayne

Tay Melo battled Madison Rayne tonight on AEW Rampage. Sammy Guevara accompanied Tay during her entrance and the two kissed on the ramp before the match.

The action started off back and forth with Tay going for an Armbar but Madison breaking free. They started trash talking and slapping each other in the face. Rayne hit some forearm strikes and then delivered a Dropkick for a two count.

Madison and Tay battled to the top turnbuckle. Tay hit a Backbreaker and Madison fell to the mat. Melo posed in the ring as Rampage went to a break. When Rampage returned, Tay connected with a Suplex and both wrestlers fell to the canvas.

Rayne hit a Neckbreaker and went for the cover but Melo powered out at two. Rayne caught Tay with a couple of jabs and perched her up on the top turnbuckle. Madison hit a Cutter off the top rope and went for the cover but Melo kicked out at the last moment.

Tay hit a slam and went for the cover but Madison kicked out at two. Madison hit a Back Body Drop and then a Clothesline for another two count. Tay knocked Rayne to the corner and unloaded some strikes. Madison battled back with some strikes of her won but Tay responded with a knee to the face. Melo followed it up with the TayKO for the pinfall victory.

Ethan Page Vowed to Win the Tournament & the Title at Winter is Coming

Ethan Page was interviewed backstage about The Firm attacking MJF. Ethan claimed that MJF decided to change the plans and that he can do everything by himself and “the right way”. Page noted that The Firm made MJF the #1 contender and were going to make him AEW World Champion. Ethan stated that he is entered into the World Eliminator tournament and vowed to walk out of Dynamite: Winter is Coming.

Wardlow Retained, Powerhouse Hobbs & The Embassy Attacked

Wardlow defended the TNT Championship against Matt Taven in the main event of this week’s Rampage. Taven drove the champion to the corner and hit a couple of chops to start off the action. Matt connected with a Dropkick and posed in the ring.

Wardlow leveled Taven with a headbutt and then launched him across the ring. The TNT Champion knocked the challenger to the outside and followed him out there. Wardlow bounced Matt’s head off the ring apron and then slammed him into the ring post.

The champion sent Taven into the barricade and fired up the crowd. Maria Kanellis was shown distracting the referee. Mike Bennett hit Wardlow with a cheap shot and Taven followed it up with a Suicide Dive. Bennett sent Wardlow into the steel steps before the action returned to the ring.

Taven climbed to the top rope and hit a Splash on Wardlow’s knee and posed in the ring once again as Rampage went to the final commercial break of the night. When Rampage returned, Wardlow reached the ropes to break up a submission hold.

The challenger focuses his attack on Wardlow’s injured knee and taunted the champion while doing so. Wardlow battled back but Taven booted him in the knee. Matt followed it up with a running knee to the face and went for the cover but Wardlow powered out at two.

Taven climbed to the top turnbuckle and went for a Stomp but Wardlow got out of the way. Wardlow hit an F10 on one leg but Taven shrugged it off. Wardlow leveled him with a Clothesline and followed it up with a Belly to Belly throw. The champ hit a Spinebuster and fired up the crowd. Wardlow set up for a Powerbomb but Maria distracted him. Wardlow then delivered a massive Powerbomb but didn’t go for the cover. Maria pounded on the mat for Taven to get up but it wasn’t going to happen.

Wardlow hit another Powerbomb and then stared at Bennett. Wardlow delivered a couple more Powerbombs for the pinfall victory. Wardlow is still the TNT Champion. After the match, Mike Bennett attacked Wardlow from behind. ROH TV Champion Samoa Joe rushed to the ring and beat Bennett & Taven down as the crowd chanted “Joe!”.

Powerhouse Hobbs then showed up and walked down to the ring. The Embassy then attacked from behind and beat Wardlow & Samoa Joe down. Brian Cage leveled Samoa Joe with a Clothesline. Powerhouse Hobbs planted Wardlow with a Spinebuster and posed with the TNT Championship to close the show. Brian Cage posed with the ROH TV title as well as Rampage went off the air.

10 Takeaways From WWE SmackDown (10/28): Bray Wyatt & Uncle Howdy, Roman Reigns Returns, Crown Jewel

WWE SmackDown aired live from the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns appeared on tonight’s episode of SmackDown.

  • 5 Opponents for Roman Reigns After WWE Crown Jewel

SmackDown Results

  • The Brawling Brutes def. The Bloodline
  • New Day def. Maximum Male Models
  • Ronda Rousey def. Emma to retain the SmackDown Women’s Championship
  • Karrion Kross def. Madcap Moss

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

The Brawling Brutes def. The Bloodline

Sami Zayn and Solo Sikoa battled Ridge Holland and Butch of The Brawling Brutes to begin the show. Before the match, Sami said that he needs all hands on deck tonight and asked for Jey’s help. The Honorary Uce added that Roman Reigns isn’t here yet and he needs to see The Bloodline’s hand raised in victory when he arrives.

Butch and Sami started off the match as The Usos paced around ringside. Butch and Ridge isolated the Honorary Uce in the corner and took turns beating him down. Zayn battled to the corner and Sikoa tagged himself in. Solo leveled Butch with a Clothesline and followed it up with a Leg Drop in the middle of the ring.

Jimmy Uso connected with a cheap shot on Butch as Solo distracted the referee. Sami tagged back in and continued to beatdown Butch. Sikoa tagged in as Butch knocked Zayn to the outside. Butch hit Sami with a knee strike but got distracted by The Usos. Sikoa capitalized and slammed Butch onto the ring apron as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

When SmackDown returned, Sami and Jey started arguing outside the ring as Butch climbed to the top turnbuckle. Solo Sikia tripped Butch up and tried to break up the argument. Ridge Holland leveled them both with a shoulder tackle as Sami retreated into the ring. Butch rolled up Sami for the pinfall victory. After the match, Zayn and Jey Uso continued to argue in the middle of the ring.

Jimmy Uso got in Jey’s face before Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns made his way to the ring as SmackDown went to a break.

Roman Reigns Suggested A New Name For Sami Zayn

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns entered the ring and referred to Sami & Jey as children. Reigns stated that he wants them to let everything out right now to solve the problem.

Sami wanted to bury the hatchet but Jey wasn’t having it. Jey shouted that Sami is a “fake ass Uce”. Zayn wondered why Jey is mad at at him and Uso responded that he doesn’t give a damn about what The Tribal Chief has to say.

Zayn stated that Jey didn’t mean that and said he hasn’t been very “Uce-y” lately. The crowd chanted “Uce-y!”. Roman threatened Jey that he will make Sami a full-time Uce if Jey doesn’t change his attitude. Reigns added “we are going to name him Sami Uso” and the crowd loudly chanted the name.

The Wiseman, Paul Heyman, then promoted the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship match between Roman Reigns and Logan Paul at Crown Jewel. Paul then said “and now here’s a word from our sponsors” as SmackDown went to a break.

New Day def. Maximum Male Models

Maximum Male Models (Mace & Mansoor) battled New Day (Kofi Kingston & Xavier Woods) in a tag team match tonight on WWE SmackDown. Maxxine Dupri was ringside for the match. New Day isolated Mansoor in the corner but Maxxine provided a distraction. Mace hit Woods with a cheap shot and tagged himself in. MMM hit a couple of shoulder tackles and posed like models in the middle of the ring.

Kofi Kingston tagged in and leveled Mansoor with a Clothesline. The former WWE Champion followed it up with the Boom Drop and geared up in the corner. Kofi connected with a Frog Splash on Mansoor and tagged in Woods. New Day hit Midnight Hour and Woods covered Mansoor for the pinfall victory.

Liv Morgan Attacked Sonya Deville Again

Kayla Braxton interviewed Sonya Deville backstage tonight on SmackDown. Sonya claimed that Liv Morgan is completely broken following her loss to Ronda Rousey at Extreme Rules. Deville added that Liv never deserved the SmackDown Women’s Championship. Liv came out of nowhere and tackled Sonya to the floor. Morgan unloaded a bunch of punches before WWE officials broke it up.

Ronda Rousey Retained, Two Matches Announced For Crown Jewel

Ronda Rousey issued an Open Challenge tonight for the SmackDown Women’s Championship. Emma made her return to the company and answered the Open Challenge as SmackDown went to a break.

When SmackDown returned, Emma battled back and climbed to the top turnbuckle. The challenger connected with a Crossbody for a two count. Ronda hit a knee strike but Emma bounced off the ropes and responded with a Clothesline. Rousey applied an Ankle Lock but Emma escaped and connected with a Suplex.

Emma followed it up with a Splash in the corner for a two count. Rousey went for Piper’s Pit but Emma escaped. Ronda raked Emma’s eyes while the official was distracted. She followed it up with Piper’s Pit and then an Armbar for the submission victory. Ronda Rousey is still the SmackDown Women’s Champion.

After the match, Natalya confronted Ronda Rousey backstage but Shayna Baszler snuck up from behind and choked Natalya out before leaving with Ronda Rousey.

Bayley versus Bianca Belair for the RAW Women’s Championship in a Last Woman Standing match at Crown Jewel. The Usos will also defend the Undisputed Tag Team Championships against The Brawling Brutes at the show.

Hit Row Picked Up A Win

Shinsuke Nakamura joined Top Dolla and Ashante Adonis of Hit Row tonight to battle Ledago Del Fantasma (Santos Escobar, Joaquin Wilde, Cruz Del Toro) in a 6-man tag team match. Hit Row and Nakamura beat down Legado Del Fantasma before the match. B-Fab then leveled Zelina Vega as SmackDown went to a commercial break.

Legado Del Fantasma isolated Ashante Adonis in the ring and took turns beating him down to start off the match. Top Dolla tagged in and connected with a Powerslam on Cruz and Joaquin. Santos entered the ring and hit Top Dolla with a Dropkick. Shinsuke Nakamura connected with a Kinshasha for the pinfall victory.

Paul Heyman Warned Roman Reigns

Paul Heyman warned Roman Reigns that he spoke to a doctor who knows a doctor about Logan Paul. The Wiseman stated that it just takes one lucky punch because Logan Paul has had metal pins put in his hand during a surgery in the past. Heyman also compared Logan to Brock Lesnar before stumbling over his words. Roman laughed it off and Heyman nervously exited the room.

Imperium Attacked Rey Mysterio

Rey Mysterio was set to be interviewed backstage but was interrupted by Imperium. Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, and Giovanni Vinci attacked Rey backstage and beat him down. Gunther will defend the IC Title against Rey next week on the blue brand.

Karrion Kross def. Madcap Moss

Karrion Kross battled Madcap Moss tonight on WWE SmackDown. Moss connected with an Atomic Drop and followed it up with a Crossbody to start off the match. Kross battled back with a flurry of strikes and then a big boot to the face.

Moss followed it up with a leaping shoulder tackle off the middle turnbuckle and Kross rolled out of the ring to regroup as SmackDown went to a commercial break. When SmackDown returned, Kross battled back and locked in the Kross Jacket for the pinfall victory. Kross sent a message to Drew McIntyre after the match.

Uncle Howdy Interrupted Bray Wyatt

Bray Wyatt made his way to the ring at the end of this week’s episode of SmackDown. Wyatt stated that it is just “me and you” right now and he’s not hiding behind a mask.

Wyatt added that “this is the best version of me that will ever be”. Bray claimed that he is going to do some “spectacular” things while he is here. Bray claimed that he has been a mess in the past and sometimes doesn’t feel anything at all no matter how hard he tries.

He said that he has to do some horrible things to get here and there is a part of him that likes that he is not afraid to do horrible things. The lights went out, a QR code flashed, and a masked man appeared. “You killed the world”, “you sent him away”, “you are just a shell of what you once were”, “you’re a liar”, and “you’ll never be able to hide from your Uncle Howdy” was said by the masked man to close the show.

Two Title Matches Announced For WWE Crown Jewel

There were two more title matches announced for WWE Crown Jewel during this week’s episode of SmackDown.

  • WWE Crown Jewel 2022 Preview

Bianca Belair defended the RAW Women’s Championship against Bayley in a Ladder match at WWE Extreme Rules. The EST emerged victorious but will once again have to face The Role Model on November 5th.

WWE announced that Bianca Belair will put the RAW Women’s Championship on the line against Bayley in a Last Woman Standing match at Crown Jewel. Bayley battled Bianca in a non-title match in the main event of this week’s RAW. Nikki Cross returned and interfered in the match. Bayley capitalized on the interference and won the match but Nikki attacked her after the bell.

The Usos will also be defending their Undisputed Tag Team Championships at Crown Jewel against The Brawling Brutes. On last week’s episode of SmackDown, The Bloodline brutally attacked Sheamus and Butch & Ridge Holland will seek revenge at the Premium Live Event next month.

On tonight’s episode of SmackDown, Roman Reigns addressed the tension between Jey Uso and Sami Zayn in The Bloodline. The Tribal Chief told them both the let everything out and Sami offered a truce.

Jey refused to shake Sami’s hand and said he didn’t care what Roman had to say. Sami calmed Reigns down and said that Jey isn’t being very “Uce-y” lately. Roman suggested that they take the Honorary Uce title away and just refer to him as “Sami Uso” moving forward, which pissed Jey off even more.

Former WWE Superstar Congratulates Sheamus on Getting Married (Photo)

The Bloodline brutally attacked Sheamus last week on SmackDown.

Jey Uso bashed The Celtic Warrior with a steel chair several times and then The Bloodline posed over Sheamus outside the ring.

Solo Sikoa and Sami Zayn will battle Ridge Holland and Butch of The Brawling Brutes tonight on WWE SmackDown on FS1.

Sheamus Gets Married

It appears that it hasn’t been that bad of a week for Sheamus after all.

The 44-year-old reportedly was married this past weekend and the attack from The Bloodline was done as a way to write The Celtic Warrior off of television for the time being.

Drew McIntyre is reportedly not going to be on tonight’s edition of SmackDown because he was the best man at Sheamus’ wedding. Sheamus’ wife, Isabella Revilla announced their engagement last year.

https://twitter.com/WrestlingSZN7/status/1585812297737453575?s=20&t=d9ECuo5-IdcX-lZVvQPigg

Former WWE Superstar Lana (CJ Perry) and Miro (FKA Rusev in WWE) were in attendance for the ceremony. Miro can be seen as a groomsman in the photo below.

Sheamus recently was involved in a bitter rivalry with Gunther over the Intercontinental Championship. The two battled at Clash at the Castle, WWE’s first UK Stadium show in over thirty years. The Celtic Warrior and The Ring General provided the 60,000+ fans in Cardiff with an instant classic but Sheamus ultimately came up short.

The Celtic Warrior received a standing ovation after the match and then another opportunity on a recent episode of SmackDown. Gunther retained by hitting Sheamus over the head with a shillelagh. Time will tell if Sheamus challenges Gunther again down the line or now has his sights set on getting revenge on The Bloodline.

Nick Hausman on Talks with CM Punk’s Camp After AEW All Out: “Doesn’t Sound Like a Guy Coming Back”

Wrestling Inc’s Nick Hausman has found himself a part of the CM Punk scandal with All Elite Wrestling because he did standup comedy with Colt Cabana years ago.

After defeating Jon Moxley to capture the AEW World Championship at All Out, CM Punk went on an explosive rant during the media scrum. He spoke very little of winning the title, his match against Jon Moxley, or MJF returning to confront him at the end of the show.

Instead, CM Punk ripped Hangman Page, The Elite, and Colt Cabana while AEW President Tony Khan sat next to him. The Elite confronted Punk after the rant, resulting in a brawl, and the AEW World and Trios Championships being vacated on the following Dynamite.

Nick Hausman on CM Punk Contacting Him After the All Out Media Scrum

Wrestling Inc’s Nick Hausman recently appeared on the WrestleRoasts podcast and discussed CM Punk getting into contact with him following the media scrum. Dave Meltzer had reported that Punk spoke with Hausman after the PPV. Nick revealed that he told Dave that off the record but will discuss it now that he’s made it public.

I told Dave that off the record, so cool. It was something I was going to try and keep for the book but I guess the cat is out of the bag.

It was a very surreal experience. I was up very late doing the scrum and got a message from an unlisted number the next day when I woke up at like 1 in the afternoon.

I rolled over and it was this number that said ‘hi Nick, this is Phil’ and I knew who it was. Yeah, I got to message back and forth with Punk a little bit that day. Like I told him and like I’m telling ya’ll, there’s no heat with me.

Just for some historical perspective, when I was doing comedy with Scott Colton (Colt Cabana) years ago, like a decade ago, Punk was really cool to me. He’d come to our shows, he brought the WWE title around.

He definitely made me some money because people knew he was coming to our shows. I went his house one night after a PPV and hung out.

Nick added that he had a falling out with Colt Cabana and Punk wasn’t aware when he referenced them doing comedy together at the media scrum. Hausman reached out to Punk’s camp yesterday and was informed that Larry (Punk’s dog) was allegedly injured during the brawl because the door was “kicked open”, according to Punk’s camp.

I was just explicitly told communication had broken down and there had not been communication from their side (AEW) with Punk’s camp.

It does not sound like a guy who’s coming back. And that is surprising to me because I really thought that he was going to come back.

And the fact that it just seems dead is surprising to me.

It felt to me as I was being given information, there was a kind of resentment towards how much of the story had been told from one side.

I think that is kind of why I got this waterfall of information at all to be honest.

I don’t know what Dave’s (Meltzer) motivations are, I mean I’ll trust him. It would seem to me that people on the other side of the aisle are easy for Dave to get a hold of, not me. Not the case with me.

Nick stated that he’s reached out to AEW President Tony Khan multiple times since the media scrum at All Out but has not heard back. He added that he’s operating under the assumption that he will be invited back to Full Gear to participate in the media scrum at the PPV on November 19th. Hausman said that the injury to Larry the Dog during the brawl may not have been reported initially because he was taken to the vet days after All Out.

There was obviously reporting the dog was involved, the dog got touched, picked up, pushed, taken, whatever. We knew the dog was involved in the melee.

We now know that days later, it sounds like. Dog gets taken to a vet, that vet says two teeth that were not loose before are now loose and we are going to have to remove these teeth.

The conclusion I obviously feel was drawn here was that the dog got knocked in the face, and his teeth got loose and he had to lose some teeth.

I don’t know if that detail didn’t get leaked initially because they didn’t know, right?

There was obviously talk about the dog, but at that point, they didn’t know that the dog was going to be losing teeth.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clAmK_Rr1ws

If you use any quotes from this article, please credit WrestleRoasts with a H/T to SEScoops for the transcription.

Ranking Roman Reigns’ Best Title Defenses as Undisputed WWE Universal Champion

Roman Reigns is closing in on 800 days as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion and will be appearing on tonight’s SmackDown ahead of Crown Jewel.

Roman’s next opponent is Logan Paul at the Premium Live Event on November 5th. Logan enters the match as a heavy underdog with just two matches in his WWE career. While anything is possible, it seems likely that The Tribal Chief’s incredible run as champion will continue following the PLE.

  • 5 Opponents for Roman Reigns After WWE Crown Jewel

Here are a few of the best matches from Roman’s historic title reign:

Daniel Bryan & Edge – WWE WrestleMania 2021 (Triple Threat)

Edge had won the Royal Rumble in 2021 and was in line for a match against Roman Reigns at the biggest show of the year. Daniel Bryan kept insisting that he get another title shot and WWE official Adam Pearce added him to the match, which resulted in Edge turning heel.

The match was the main event of Night 2 of WrestleMania 37 and it delivered. Roman Reigns entered a match against two of the best of all time as champion and was the only one left standing at the end. Roman stacked Edge and Bryan on top of each other to win in impressive fashion.

Daniel Bryan – WWE SmackDown (4/30/21)

Daniel Bryan’s last match in WWE was in the ThunderDome against Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship. Bryan had already fallen short a few times but got one last shot at the title on April 30, 2021.

The stipulation was that Bryan would have to leave SmackDown forever if he lost the match. Roman won the match without any outside interference by making Daniel pass out via the Guillotine Choke. It was a great sendoff for Daniel Bryan before he went to AEW and another feather in the cap of The Tribal Chief.

Cesaro – WrestleMania Backlash 2021

Cesaro’s time in WWE was frustrating for a lot of fans. It felt like the company would start to get behind him and then pull back. He was paired with Paul Heyman for a moment and then the plan was abandoned without explanation.

The Swiss Superman earned a title match against The Head of the Table at WrestleMania Backlash 2021. Even though WWE may not have gotten the best out of Cesaro, the promotion did a terrific job of building him up to be presented as a viable threat to The Tribal Chief.

Cesaro gave Roman everything he could handle but in the end, it was not enough. The 41-year-old now wrestles as Claudio Castagnoli in All Elite Wrestling.

Seth Rollins – WWE Royal Rumble 2022

The former Shield members met face-to-face with the title on the line at the Royal Rumble PLE in January this year. Reigns had never defeated Rollins at a Premium Live Event before and The Visionary pointed that out leading into the match.

Seth and Roman beat the hell out of each other in this match and there wasn’t a dull moment. The weakest part of the bout was the finish. Roman applied the Guillotine choke but didn’t let go after Seth reached the ropes and was disqualified.

Time will tell if WWE revisits this rivalry while Roman is still the champion. Seth is now focused on holding the United States Championship for as long as he can on WWE RAW.

Kevin Owens – WWE TLC 2020

Roman Reigns and Kevin Owens battled at Royal Rumble 2021 in an entertaining match. There was a handcuff spot that was botched and messed up the flow of the match.

The Head of the Table and KO also clashed at TLC 2020 during the ThunderDome Era. Owens put Reigns through an incredible about of punishment in the TLC match but could not keep him down.

Jey Uso interfered toward the end of the match to help his cousin retain the title. Kevin has recently hinted at revisiting the rivalry by claiming Roman “owes him one” and mocking Sami Zayn’s involvement in The Bloodline as the Honorary Uce.

Brock Lesnar – SummerSlam 2022

The vibe heading into this match wasn’t very positive for a lot of wrestling fans. Roman Reigns versus Brock Lesnar certainly is a main event level match, it just had been done so many times before.

However, Brock Lesnar and Roman Reigns provided us with an awesome Last Man Standing match at this year’s SummerSlam in Nashville. The Beast driving to the ring on a tractor and lifting Reigns up in it is a moment most WWE fans will never forget.

Jey Uso – WWE Hell in a Cell 2020

The Bloodline may be the most dominant faction in WWE now, but things weren’t always that way. Roman Reigns and Jey Uso had an all-time great rivalry during the ThunderDome era. It was Reigns first feud as Universal Champion and remains his best in my opinion.

Jey Uso showed that he was much more than just a role player, or a tag teammate. He is excellent at his craft and was perfect in this storyline. It was the family connection that made the story so interesting and the WWE Universe slowly watched Roman morph into a heel.

Reigns and Jey met at Clash of Champions 2020 and had a great match. They put on a classic the following month at the Hell in a Cell PLE. The two battled in an I Quit Hell in a Cell match, with Jey having to acknowledge Roman as The Tribal Chief if he lost.

The finish to the match was brilliantly done and displayed just how evil Roman had become. Jimmy Uso entered the cell and Reigns got him in the Guillotine choke. Roman refused to let go until Jey uttered the words “I quit” to end the match. While Jey may currently have some minor issues with Honorary Uce Sami Zayn, the root of all his troubles is The Head of the Table.

What are your favorite matches of Roman Reigns’ title run so far? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

Bryan Danielson Reveals He Almost Signed with Ring of Honor in 2018

AEW star Bryan Danielson is currently a member of the Blackpool Combat Club with World Champion Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, Wheeler Yuta, and Sir William Regal.

Danielson recruited Wheeler Yuta to the group and brought in Claudio Castagnoli as his replacement at AEW Forbidden Door.

The American Dragon and Wheeler Yuta have been arguing as of late on Dynamite. Danielson has come up short in every title match he’s been a part of in AEW and recently lost his ROH title match to Chris Jericho due to interference from Daniel Garcia.

Bryan had been trying to convince Garcia that he’s a professional wrestler but ultimately Daniel chose to be a sports entertainer in the Jericho Appreciation Society. Yuta questioned how Danielson didn’t see the betrayal from Garcia coming and seemed disappointed in him.

Bryan Danielson Considered Going to Ring of Honor in 2018

It was announced in March 2018 by WWE that Bryan Danielson was cleared to return to the ring.

In a recent interview with Inside The Ropes, Danielson revealed that his contract with WWE was coming up around that time and he considered going to Ring of Honor. He was in contact with Cody Rhodes and The Young Bucks but discovered that their deals with ROH were also coming up around the same time.

“It was really interesting. My contract with WWE was up in 2018 and I was considering going to Ring of Honor and I was talking to The Young Bucks and I was talking to Cody [Rhodes] just to kind of see — all their contracts were up with Ring of Honor and I was like, ‘What are you guys gonna do?’ Because even my lawyer, who doesn’t know anything about pro wrestling, he said, ‘Hey, I don’t think you’d wanna sign with Ring of Honor if these Young Bucks aren’t going because they’ve got this YouTube show.

I don’t know if you’ve heard of it, called Being The Elite’ and it’s essentially the driver for the popularity of Ring of Honor at the time, right? And so those guys go away, we don’t know if Ring of Honor will nearly still be as popular and then with Cody’s contract coming up, if they leave and Cody leaves, what will Ring of Honor’s popularity be like? So that was a part of the discussion.”

Danielson added that AEW World Champion Jon Moxley, The Elite, and Chris Jericho are the heart of All Elite Wrestling.

“It’s cool for me that Mox is where he’s at. To me, there was that excellent interview segment with CM Punk and Jon Moxley and he talked about being the heart and soul of kind of AEW and I see him as that as well. Him, Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks is kind of like — and Chris Jericho, you know what I mean?

But I see those kind of people as the guys, right? And it’s cool that when I first wrestled him, it was in front of like 75 people on a Wednesday show in the middle of nowhere. Mox actually knows exactly where it was but I don’t even remember so it was like, all of that kind of stuff is just neat.”

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

H/T: Post Wrestling

Stardom’s Syuri Tops PWI Women’s 150 List

Pro Wrestling Illustrated has announced that STARDOM’s Syuri has ranked number one on PWI Women’s 150 list. The 33-year-old is the current World of Stardom Champion.

She dethroned last year’s winner, Bianca Belair. The RAW Women’s Champion didn’t fall too far down the list as The EST ranked in at #2. Syuri was ranked #7 last year and #78 in 2020.

The PWI list is based on in-ring success and the evaluation period occurred from October 2021 to the end of September this year.

PWI provided the following reason as to why Syuri ranked in at the top of this year’s list:

“Already regarded by many as the best wrestler of any gender in the world, Syuri achieved what she (and her fans) saw as her destiny last December when she was finally able to beat Utami Hayashishita for the World of Stardom championship… As holder of Stardom’s coveted “Red Belt,” Syuri has lived up to expectations, already defending the title eight times.”

The top moment during the evaluation period was when Syuri defeated Utami Hayashishita at Stardom Dream Queendom on December 29th. The two had wrestled to multiple draws prior to the match.

RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair, Becky Lynch, and Charlotte Flair were the WWE Superstars that made the top ten. AEW Women’s Champion Thunder Rosa and TBS Champion Jade Cargill made the top ten as well. Britt Baker ranked #13, while Liv Morgan and SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey ranked #17 and #18 respectively.

Jon Moxley Announced as Replacement for AEW Star in Match Tomorrow Night on Rampage

All Elite Wrestling star and member of the Blackpool Combat Club, Wheeler Yuta, has commented on being double booked for Rampage and NJPW tomorrow. Rampage will be live tomorrow night from Uncasville, CT.

  • 5 Reasons Jon Moxley is AEW’s MVP in 2022

AEW’s official Twitter account posted the following video from Wheeler Yuta and here are his comments:

Well, folks it seems that I’ve found myself in a little bit of a pickle. I got a little too excited celebrating my birthday, and my big win on Dynamite. I accidentally double-booked myself for Friday, committing to a match on AEW Rampage as well as one for New Japan Strong.

Now, I did make the New Japan Strong commitment first and in the Blackpool Combat Club we honor our commitments. I will be at New Japan Strong this Friday.

But don’t fret AEW fans, New Japan will be sending one of their best and brightest stars very soon. And there will be a replacement match featuring a Blackpool Combat Club member, he’s the World Champion, Jon Moxley.

A graphic then appeared in the video to announce that Jon Moxley of Blackpool Combat Club will battle Matt “Daddy Magic” Menard in a AEW World Championship Eliminator match tomorrow night on Rampage.

WWE Superstar Karl Anderson is currently in a similar situation with NJPW. Karl is the NEVER Openweight Champion and was scheduled to defend against Hikuleo at Battle Autumn on November 5th. However, Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows recently returned to WWE and reunited with AJ Styles.

The OC have been booked against The Judgment Day in a 6-man tag team match at WWE Crown Jewel on November 5th. NJPW recently warned Karl Anderson that he must defend the title on November 5th at Battle Autumn or he will have to vacate it.

Watch: Liv Morgan Killed on Latest Episode of ‘Chucky’ TV Series

Liv Morgan has undergone an attitude adjustment following WWE Extreme Rules.

She defended the SmackDown Women’s Championship against Ronda Rousey in an Extreme Rules match at the Premium Live Event.

The 28-year-old wanted to prove to The Baddest Woman on the Planet that she was extreme and she was successful in doing so. Unfortunately for Liv Morgan, it still wasn’t enough and Ronda defeated her to become the new SmackDown Women’s Champion. After the match, Liv was approached for an interview but was in no mood to talk.

Liv Morgan Killed on Chucky TV Show

The horror movie villain Chucky has made some cameos on NXT during the Halloween season. Now, WWE Superstar Liv Morgan has appeared on the Chucky TV show on SyFy. The former SmackDown Women’s Champion appeared on the fourth episode of season 2 of the series. Liv’s cameo on the show was brief as she was brutally murdered by the doll as seen below.

Liv Morgan was recently interviewed by USA Insider about her appearance on the show and revealed she reached out to WWE and USA Network to be a part of the show.

So I just went to WWE and I was like, ‘Do you think there’s any opportunity for me in any capacity? Because I’d love to be involved in any way, shape, or form.’

And so they reached out, and I was actually put in touch with Don Mancini, the show’s creator – he’s been so gracious to me.

We jumped on a Zoom and he was able to write me into the script. It’s been almost a pipe dream come true. It started with an ask that turned into something unbelievable.

“Austin-esque” – Jim Ross Compares AEW Star to Stone Cold During Dynamite

AEW commentator and wrestling legend Jim Ross took to Twitter tonight and said that AEW World Champion Jon Moxley reminded him of a WWE legend.

Jon Moxley defended the AEW World Championship against Pentagon Jr. in the main event of this week’s episode of Dynamite.

It was a back-and-forth matchup, but in the end, Jon retained the AEW World Championship via pinfall after connecting with the Paradigm Shift. Jim Ross compared Jon Moxley to Stone Cold on social media toward the end of the title match.

.@JonMoxley is Austin-esque. Love his game.@AEW#Dynamite

The Firm Attacks MJF & Jon Moxley

After the match, Stokely Hathaway’s stable The Firm attacked Jon Moxley. MJF hired The Firm as his stable on retainer, and the group helped him win the Casino Ladder match at All Out, ensuring him a future title show.

However, Maxwell had warned Stokely earlier on the show to not lay a hand on Jon Moxley before Full Gear. MJF wants to prove that he can earn the title on his own to William Regal and has vowed to not use the Dynamite Diamond Ring as a weapon at the PPV on November 19th.

The Firm ignored MJF’s request and attacked the champion at the end of the show. W. Morrissey, The Gunn Club, Lee Moriarty, and Ethan Page beat down Moxley as MJF paced around on the entrance ramp.

MJF made it seem like he was going to go backstage but wound up sprinting to the ring. The numbers game was too much and The Firm beat both men down. Ethan Page planted MJF with the Ego’s Edge and W. Morrissey sent Maxwell through a table with a Chokeslam as the show went off the air. Jon Moxley will defend the AEW World Championship against MJF on November 19th at the Prudential Center in New Jersey.

Sasha Banks, Naomi, New Day & Jimmy Uso Attend ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ Premiere

Sasha Banks and Naomi have not appeared in WWE since the May 16th edition of RAW.

They were the Women’s Tag Team Champions at the time but creative called for them to enter singles programs ahead of the Hell in a Cell PLE. Sasha and Naomi were scheduled to compete against each other in a Six-Pack Challenge but that never happened.

The Women’s Tag Team Champions walked into former EVP of Talent Relations John Laurinaitis’ desk, left the titles behind, and walked out of the arena. There have been rumors of their return to the company but nothing has come to fruition yet.

The former Women’s Tag Team Champions recently walked the runway at a fashion show in NYC with Bayley in attendance.

Sasha, Naomi, Jimmy Uso, and New Day Attend Movie Premiere Today In Los Angeles

Sasha Banks, Naomi, Jimmy Uso, Kofi Kingston, Big E, and Xavier Woods attended Wednesday’s premiere for ‘Black Panther: Wakanda Forever’ today in Los Angeles. The crew arrived together and danced on the purple carpet.

The stars walked the purple carpet during the premiere for the Marvel Studios film. Xavier Woods and Naomi posted photos from the event on social media.

Former WWE Champion Big E posted a slow-motion video of the New Day walking the purple carpet. Big E has been out of action since March after suffering a neck injury. He is scheduled to be reevaluated next March to see if he can return to the squared circle.

Several fans have posted videos and photos of the stars at tonight’s movie premiere and you can check them out below.

https://twitter.com/KingZairois/status/1585467133793894402?s=20&t=5axzFJNfdDQPjOfSAoAjtw

“She Needs Some Damage Control” – Bayley & Saraya React to Interview on AEW Dynamite

Renee Paquette, formerly known in WWE as Renee Young, recently signed with All Elite Wrestling.

She appeared several times during this week’s episode of Dynamite. Renee was set to interview Saraya, formerly known as Paige, when Britt Baker interrupted.

Britt and Saraya traded words until Renee shut them both up. Paquette said that they were going to do this properly if they wanted to talk about it and Britt stormed away.

Saraya debuted in All Elite Wrestling last month at Dynamite: Grand Slam. Toni Storm defeated Britt Baker, Athena, and Serena Deeb to retain the AEW Interim Women’s Championship. After the match, the heels attacked and Britt set up for the Lockjaw on Storm. Saraya’s music hit and Britt retreated with Jamie Hayter, Rebel, and Serena Deeb.

Bayley Reacts to Interview on AEW Dynamite

Bayley is currently involved in a bitter rivalry with RAW Women’s Champion Bianca Belair. The Role Model battled her for the title in a Ladder match at Extreme Rules but came up short. Bayley defeated The EST in the main event of RAW. A repackaged WWE Superstar interfered in the match and it led to Bayley picking up the victory.

After Renee Paquette put an end to the bickering between Saraya and Britt Baker on Dynamite, Saraya took to Twitter and claimed that she loves “spicy” Renee.

Bayley responded and said that Renee was in “a bit of a pickle”. Saraya then joked that she needed some “damage control”. Bayley is currently the leader of the Damage CTRL faction with Women’s Tag Team Champions IYO SKY & Dakota Kai.

She needs some damage control…

8 Takeaways From AEW Dynamite (10/26): Jon Moxley Defends Title, Bryan Danielson, The Firm & MJF

AEW Dynamite aired live from the Cartway Arena in Norfolk, Virginia. In addition to the takeaways below, AEW ran a video package with The Elite being dissolved away. It was reported earlier that Kenny Omega and The Young Bucks will be returning to the company soon.

AEW Dynamite Results

  • Blackpool Combat Club (Castagnoli & Yuta) def. Jericho Appreciation Society (Chris Jericho & Daniel Garcia)
  • Swerve in Our Glory def. FTR to become the #1 contenders for the AEW Tag Team Championships
  • Bryan Danielson def. Sammy Guevara
  • Jamie Hayter def. Riho
  • Jon Moxley def. Pentagon Jr. to retain the AEW World Championship

Here are the takeaways from this week’s show:

Blackpool Combat Club def. Jericho Appreciation Society

Blackpool Combat Club’s Claudio Castagnoli and Wheeler Yuta battled Jericho Appreciation Society’s Chris Jericho and Daniel Garcia to begin the show. JAS and William Regal were ringside for the match.

Castagnoli unloaded several uppercuts and followed it up with a Clothesline on Jericho to start off the action. Garcia tagged in and the former ROH Champion leveled him with an uppercut as well before tagging in Wheeler Yuta.

Wheeler booted Daniel in the face and started taunting the ROH Pure Champion. Yuta connected with a Dropkick and started bending back Garcia’s fingers. BCC took control but Hager hopped on the ring apron for a distraction. JAS regrouped outside the ring but Claudio and Wheeler went after them.

Claudio launched Jericho into the ring post as Wheeler rolled Garcia back inside the ring. Castagnoli went for The Swing but Garcia was able to escape. Jericho tagged in and traded strikes with Claudio in the middle of the ring. Castagnoli got distracted by Hager and Jericho capitalized with a Dropkick as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Garcia had Claudio in a Headlock in the middle of the ring. Claudio showed off his power and countered into a Vertical Suplex. Jericho tagged in and bashed Wheeler off the apron before Claudio could get the tag. Chris went for the Walls of Jericho but Claudio blocked it. Castagnoli hit a big uppercut and both wrestlers fell to the canvas.

Yuta tagged in and hit Jericho with a Splash for a two count. Wheeler and Daniel traded punches and Yuta knocked the ROH Pure Champion out of the ring. Yuta connected with a slam on Jericho for a near fall. Claudio tagged in after Yuta hit a DDT. Castagnoli went for the cover but the ROH Champion kicked out at two. Claudio went for a springboard uppercut but Jericho countered into a Codebreaker.

Jericho went for the cover but Wheeler broke it up. Yuta jumped onto JAS outside the ring as Jericho brought Floyd the baseball bat into the ring. Claudio countered with the Ricola Bomb and then hit Jericho with the Swing while holding Daniel Garcia on his shoulders at the same time. Castagnoli hit Hager with a Senton and beat the hell out of JAS as he marched around the ring. Back in the ring, Claudio hit Jericho with the Neutralizer on Jericho for the pinfall victory.

Bryan Danielson & Wheeler Yuta Continued To Argue

Renee Paquette interviewed Bryan Danielson backstage ahead of his match against Sammy Guevara. Danielson said he was frustrated about losing to Chris Jericho, Daniel Garcia betraying him, Wheeler Yuta talking back to him, etc. Danielson stated that he has no issue with Sammy Guevara other than his smug face and his stupid vlogs.

Wheeler Yuta showed up and boasted about just beating Garcia and Jericho. Yuta and Danielson started shoving each other. Castganoli broke it up and said they are all going to work out their differences after Danielson beats Guevara.

Swerve In Our Glory Are #1 Contenders

FTR (Dax Harwood & Cash Wheeler) battled Swerve in Our Glory (Keith Lee & Swerve Strickland) to determine the #1 contenders for the AEW Tag Team Championships. The champions, The Acclaimed, took a seat on the entrance ramp to watch the match.

Strickland and Wheeler locked up to start off the match. Wheeler took control and got Swerve in a Headlock. Strickland broke free and took Wheeler down. Swerve then danced around the ring as the Gunn Club were shown dressed as FTR in the crowd.

Dax tagged in and connected with a Suplex for a near fall. Keith Lee tagged in and shot a look at Strickland before entering the ring. FTR went for Big Rig but Keith blocked it. Keith then leapfrogged both members of FTR in an awesome spot and leveled them with a Crossbody as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Harwood and Swerve traded strikes in the middle of the ring. Keith Lee broke it up but Dax sent him to the outside. Strickland rolled up Harwood for a near fall. Strickland went for a move off the top rope but tripped. Harwood hit a German Suplex and tagged in Wheeler.

Cash and Dax isolated Swerve in the corner. Harwood hit a Powerbomb and Wheeler followed it up with a Northern Lights Suplex for a two count. Strickland and Wheeler traded uppercuts in the corner. Keith Lee tagged in and Swerve in Our Glory hit a combo move on Wheeler. Lee popped Wheeler up and Swerve hit a Powerbomb for a two count.

Strickland climbed to the top rope but Wheeler battled back. Harwood planted Strickland with a massive Powerbomb but turned around into a shoulder tackle from Keith Lee. FTR went for the Big Rig on Keith Lee but Strickland broke it up. Wheeler booted Swerve in the face and FTR hit Keith with the Big Rig. Cash went for the cover but Strickland broke it up at two. Lee accidentally hit Strickland and Dax rolled him up for a near fall.

Keith hit a massive Powerslam on Dax as Gunn Club held up Cash Wheeler against the barricade. The Gunn Club attacked FTR before AEW Tag Team Champions The Acclaimed broke it up. Swerve in Our Glory are the new #1 contenders.

MJF Warned Stokely Hathaway

Renee Paquette was about to interview Saraya when Britt Baker showed up. They started arguing and Renee told them both to shut up. She added that they are going to have to talk about it properly instead of yelling over each other. Britt Baker walked away to end the segment.

Renee then interviewed MJF on the entrance ramp. Maxwell will be facing Renee’s husband, Jon Moxley, for the AEW World Championship at Full Gear. MJF asked the Virginia crowd if there were any devil worshippers in the crowd and they cheered.

MJF took the microphone away and mocked the way Jon Moxley walks and talks. Maxwell claimed that Jon was “mid”. Renee noted that MJF can’t just say “with all due respect” and then insult someone, Maxwell responded by saying “Renee, with all due respect, shut up” to pop the crowd.

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Maxwell noted that he’s still MJF and got ahead of himself by saying that he was going to wrestle the match at Full Gear clean. MJF called William a “disgusting old rat” and promised that he will not use his Dynamite Diamond Ring at the PPV because he doesn’t need it. Maxwell added that he is fighting every single sorry scumbag that told him he’s not good enough at Full Gear.

Stokely Hathaway of The Firm interrupted and said that they won’t lay a hand on Jon Moxley ahead of the PPV. MJF told Stokely that he needs Mox at 100% at Full Gear so nobody has any excuses. MJF threatened to fire Hathaway if he touches Moxley before the PPV. Stokely smirked and walked away. Maxwell then said his “I’m better than you” catchphrase and had the crowd chant “you know it!”.

Bryan Danielson def. Sammy Guevara

Sammy Guevara of JAS battled Bryan Danielson tonight on Dynamite. Tay Melo was ringside for the match and William Regal joined commentary. Guevara dominated the action early and connected with a springboard Cutter for a near fall.

Bryan battled back and unloaded chops and kicks to Sammy’s chest in the corner of the ring. Guevara tried to battle back but Danielson responded with even harder chops. Bryan knocked Sammy to the mat with an uppercut and started bending back Guevara’s fingers. Sammy reached the ropes but Danielson stomped on his elbow.

Danielson connected with a Butterfly Suplex and went for an Armbar but Sammy got his boot on the ropes to break up the hold. Danielson unloaded punches to Sammy’s face until the referee stopped him. Guevara rolled out of the ring and Danielson hit him with a Dropkick through the ropes. Sammy responded with absurd springboard Moonsault and got a smooch from Tay as Dynamite went to a break.

When Dynamite returned, Sammy unloaded some kicks to Danielson’s chest. Bryan smacked Sammy in the face and he fell to the corner. Danielson unloaded a bunch of chops and kicks. Bryan followed it up with a Clothesline and fired up the crowd. Danielson sent Guevara flying out of the ring with a Back Body Drop and quickly followed it up with a Suicide Dive.

Back in the ring, Danielson climbed to the top turnbuckle and delivered a Dropkick to Sammy’s face. Bryan hit some Yes Kicks but Sammy battled back with a Standing Spanish Fly for a near fall. Guevara climbed to the top turnbuckle but Danielson tripped him up.

Bryan joined Sammy on the top rope and went for a Suplex but Sammy landed on his feet. Guevara went for a Standing Moonsault but Danielson countered into the LeBell Lock in the middle of the ring but Guevara reached the bottom rope. Danielson climbed to the top rope but Guevara took him down with a Spanish Fly for a close two count.

Danielson connected with a reverse Hurricanrana and then the Running Knee to the face. Bryan didn’t go for the cover and began kicking Sammy in the face over and over. Danielson then applied a Triangle submission and unloaded elbow strikes until Guevara passed out.

Jamie Hayter def. Riho

Jamie Hayter battled Riho tonight on AEW Dynamite. Riho hit an Armdrag but Jamie responded with a massive shoulder tackle as Rebel and Britt cheered her on ringside. Riho sent Hayter to the ropes but got tripped up by Baker. Riho knocked Hayter out of the ring and hit a Crossbody off the top rope.

Back in the ring, Hayter battled back with a Suplex for a near fall. Jamie followed it up with a Powerslam and went for the cover but Riho kicked out at two as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Riho connected with a knee strike and knocked Rebel off the ring apron. Riho went for a 619 but Hayter blocked it. Riho connected with a Fisherman’s Suplex and went for the cover but Jamie kicked out at two.

Riho climbed to the top turnbuckle and went for a Crossbody but Hayter caught her. Jamie connected with a Brainbuster and went for the cover but Riho wouldn’t stay down. Hayter unloaded a forearm strike and went for a slam but Riho countered into a Bulldog.

Riho hit a Hurricanrana but once again got tripped up by Baker. Jamie capitalized with a slam and went for a Powerbomb but Riho countered into a Code Red for a near fall. Hayter went for a Clothesline but Riho ducked and hit a Snap Dragon Suplex for a two count. Jamie hit a big boot and followed it up with a thunderous Clothesline for the pinfall victory. AEW Interim Women’s Champion Toni Storm posed on the entrance ramp and had a staredown with Hayter after the match.

Eddie Kingston Wants to be Left Alone

Renee Paquette interviewed Eddie Kingston backstage and noted that several of his friends are worried about his behavior. Kingston didn’t want to talk about it and had an insane grin on his face. Eddie brought up Moxley and picked him to win the AEW World Championship match tonight. Kingston added that everyone else can leave him alone to end the promo.

Jon Moxley Retained The AEW World Championship, The Firm Attacked Moxley & MJF

Jon Moxley defended the AEW World Championship against Pentagon Jr. in tonight’s main event. Alex Abrahantes accompanied Penta to the ring for the match.

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Moxley and Penta locked up in the middle of the ring to begin the match. Penta drove the champ to the corner and taunted him. Moxley responded with some chops to the chest. The champ and challenger traded strikes in the middle of the ring as the crowd cheered.

Penta booted Moxley in the midsection and rolled him up for a near fall. Jon went for a lariat but Penta ducked and taunted him some more. Moxley responded by flipping Penta the bird. Pentagon Jr. sent Moxley out of the ring and flipped onto him as Dynamite went to a commercial break.

When Dynamite returned, Moxley hit some punches and bit Penta on the top of his head like a maniac. Penta responded with a Slingblade and went for the cover but the champion kicked out at two. Moxley battled back and applied a Crossface in the middle of the ring.

The challenger escaped and went for a submission hold of his own. Jon sent Penta to the canvas and booted him in the face a few times. Penta tackled Moxley to the mat and then snapped back his arm. Penta went for the cover but the champ powered out at two and the title match continued.

Penta and Jon battled on the ring apron and then onto the steel steps. Moxley bounced Penta’s face off the steps and rolled him back inside the ring. Jon leveled the challenger with a Clothesline and went for the cover but Penta kicked out at the last moment. Pentagon Jr. planted Moxley with a Piledriver for a near fall. Jon battled back and connected with the Paradigm Shift for the pinfall victory. Jon Moxley is still the AEW World Champion.

After the match, The Firm (W. Morrissey, Gunn Club, Ethan Page, Lee Moriarty) attacked Jon Moxley in the ring as Stokely Hathaway made his way down the entrance ramp. The Firm beat Jon Moxley down until some AEW security ran down to the ring. The rest of the security couldn’t make it as someone had chained the doors shut.

Moxley started to fight back but Ethan hit him with a big boot. MJF showed up on the entrance ramp but was conflicted. Maxwell was about to stop The Firm but walked backstage. MJF charged down to the ring and pushed The Firm away. Maxwell fired Stokely Hathaway and The Firm then attacked MJF as the crowd booed. Ethan Page planted MJF with the Ego’s Edge and Morrissey dumped him out of the ring. W. Morrissey Chokeslammed MJF through a table to close the show.