In case you missed it, WWE has new RAW tag team champions. Despite being surrounded with rumors regarding their status, The Revival, have come away from last night’s Monday Night RAW victorious. They bested the team of “Glorious” Bobby Roode and Chad Gable to claim their first tag team championships on the main roster.

After numerous weeks of speculation and whispers — extending to an attempt to ban Lucha House Rules — Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder can finally call themselves champions as WWE continues to try and reignite their tag team division.

Taking to Twitter, Chad Gable addressed their loss, taking it in his stead and congratulating The Revival. He did add a caveat, saying that this isn’t the end between the two rivals teams. He promised that “We’re coming…#Glorious”.

“Fair and square. Congratulations, Revival.

But there’s nothing I love more than a good chase.

Get your running boots on. We’re coming…#Glorious”

Fair and square. Congratulations, Revival.

But there’s nothing I love more than a good chase.

Get your running boots on. We’re coming…#Glorious

— Chad Gable (@WWEGable) February 12, 2019

Revival’s Revival

Despite putting in a great performance and winning the titles clean, it does beg the question over WWE’s stance towards disgruntled talent. With The Revival being given a run with the belts, does this usher in a new wave of unhappy talent getting an opportunity, or is this a case of WWE placating Superstars for the short term?

Perhaps this is simply the beginning of the revival for The Revival.

One-half of the Authors of Pain, Akam, is said to be dealing with a leg injury that will keep him on the shelf for a couple of months. The 25-year-old hasn’t wrestled since a house show on January 6th.

“Akam of the Authors of Pain is hurt,” Dave Meltzer said on Wrestling Observer Radio. “I don’t know the nature of the injury but it’s a leg injury, he’s going to be out for a couple of months, I understand.”

Meltzer would continue to say he’s still looking for confirmation and details, however.

The Authors of Pain

The booking of the WWE’s tag team divisions has been a topic of conversation as of late. The Raw tag team championships changed hands 10 times in 2018 and have been involved in storylines involving people urinating on themselves.

The Authors of Pain won the Raw tag-team championships on the November 5th, 2018 episode of Raw from Manchester. They defeated Seth Rollins in a 2-on-1 handicap match for the belts as Dean Ambrose did not participate. The AOP then defended the titles successfully against the team of Chad Gable and Bobby Roode 3 weeks later. On December 10th, 2018, the AOP lost the belts to Roode and Gable. They lost a 3-on-2 handicap match where their manager, Drake Maverick, was pinned.

It has just been announced that next week’s episode of Monday Night RAW will now feature a stipulation match for the RAW Tag Team Championships. Chad Gable and Bobby Roode will now be defending their straps against The Revival (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder) in a Lumberjack match. Also, Elias will meet Baron Corbin in a singles match on the card as well:

THIS MONDAY on #RAW…

? @REALBobbyRoode & @WWEGable will defend their #TagTeamTitles in a #LumberjackMatch against @ScottDawsonWWE & @DashWilderWWE #TheRevival

? @IAmEliasWWE squares off one-on-one with @BaronCorbinWWE pic.twitter.com/KNSr93wFh1

— WWE (@WWE) January 4, 2019

The first Monday Night RAW of 2019 already includes the return of WWE Hall Of Famer Hulk Hogan. “The Hulkster” will be honoring the recently departed “Mean” Gene Okerlund, who passed away in Florida earlier this week. John Cena is also expected to be making his return to RAW. Cena has been doing a lot of work for his film career as of late. He spent several months in China filming his upcoming “Project X” movie with Jackie Chan. Cena also has been promoting his new “Bumblebee” movie quite a bit as well.

WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar is also set to make an appearance. Alexa Bliss will be debuting her “Moment of Bliss” talk show. She’ll have RAW Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey on as her first guest.

What do you think about the current lineup for RAW next week?

Chad Gable and Bobby Roode are the new WWE RAW Tag Team Champions. As seen on this week’s episode of Monday Night RAW in San Diego, CA at the Valley View Casino Center on the USA Network, the first match of the night was a 3-on-2 handicap match that saw Gable and Roode beat Authors of Pain and Drake Maverick to win the titles. The finish saw Roode roll up Maverick for the win.

OH SO GLORIOUS! #RAW #AndNew #TagTeamTitles @WWEGable @REALBobbyRoode pic.twitter.com/cGq6DztF0u

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) December 11, 2018

Authors of Pain won the titles back on the November 5th episode of Raw when they beat Seth Rollins in a handicap match after he was forced to defend the titles alone by Acting Raw General Manager Baron Corbin.

This marks the first reign as RAW Tag Team Champions for Gable and Roode as they are the 71st champions in the history of the title that dates back to 2002 under the WWE Tag Team Titles.

As of this writing, there’s no word yet on when AOP will get their rematch for the titles but it could come as soon as the TLC pay-per-view event takes place on Sunday, December 16th, 2018 in San Jose, California at the SAP Center.
What are your thoughts on this title change? Sound off in the comment section. 

205 Live has not been the major success that WWE had envisioned, there are a multitude of reasons that the Cruiserweight show has drawn poorly; the time slot behind Smackdown Live, the lack of genuinely intriguing storytelling and the poor promotional efforts from the company being just a small cluster. Many have suggested that WWE cut it’s losses and look to redistribute the Cruiserweight stars amongst the RAW & Smackdown brands, but with the recent announcement of 205 Live touring shows it is clear that WWE do not want to put this project to bed just yet. So, who could WWE bring into the ‘purple brand’ to attempt to revitalise and boost the programme? We’ll take a look at three names now.

Hideo Itami

Hideo Itami

This is basically cheating…Hideo Itami has been confirmed for 205 Live but I wanted to highlight how the switch massively helps both Hideo and the Cruiserweight show. Itami has been flagging on NXT for an extremely long time and his presence on the de-facto ‘developmental brand’ no longer carries the weight of a major independent star who can shift ticket sales. When Hideo is transitioned to 205 Live (and essentially RAW) then he can be repositioned as an absolute killer amongst the more high flying elements of the show because fans from his KENTA days will tell you he can be absolutely brutal, vicious and devastating inside the ring when the time calls. Whilst Hideo may not necessarily attract the numbers that WWE would be looking for he will be a welcome asset, the prospect of Itami against Gulak, Cedric Alexander and Akira Tozawa is more than exciting and perhaps he can lend a certain in ring credibility that the show (and title) are perhaps looking for.

Finn Balor

Finn Balor

It’s quite incredible to consider where both Hideo and Balor are at this point in their careers, with Finn debuting in NXT to team with the already somewhat established Hideo. That being said a move to 205 Live for the Irish star would be seen by a large majority as a step down, but what needs to be considered is how and where Finn could be used on RAW in the foreseeable future. A rumored nixing of the Universal Title match against Brock Lesnar due to Vince McMahon believing Finn wasn’t ‘over’ has seen Finn referencing and mocking this idea on social media…but realistically what can Finn do between now and next year’s Wrestlemania? There’s certainly opportunities for Finn on RAW but how much of a benefit would Balor be as a temporary star on 205 Live? I really believe that you would see a rise in interest and he would generate a buzz around a completely stagnant show. It wouldn’t be for long and I wouldn’t advocate him winning the Cruiserweight title but a nice run against some of the better in ring stars on 205 Live could do wonders for that show.

Chad Gable

Chad Gable

Last and certainly not least would be Chad Gable. Gable’s isn’t a name that I have heard suggested for 205 Live but at 92kg (202 pounds) he certainly could be on the roster. Whilst his run with Shelton Benjamin has been entertaining within the Smackdown Live Tag Division there does need to be time to transition the former Olympic athlete into singles competition. Instead of possibly getting lost in the shuffle of the Smackdown mid card why not give Chad a run amongst the Cruiserweights? Gable’s unique style would set him apart from other performers on the roster and he could mesh well with the likes of Jack Gallagher (who himself has not had the chance to truly shine), Noam Dar and funnily enough Enzo Amore. Chad has a charisma and ability on the microphone that the other two performers suggested actually lack, his original stint in NXT alongside Jason Jordan garnered praise and comparisons to a young Kurt Angle. Gable has a great sense of timing, humour and could trade off well against Enzo in his own wheelhouse.

Who would you like to see brought over to 205 Live? Let us know in the comments

– On last night’s episode of SmackDown Live, the team of Rusev and Aiden English defeated The New Day to earn a spot in the SmackDown Tag Team Title match at Clash Of Champions. The match will now be a Fatal Four-Way Tag Team match, with The Usos defending their titles against Rusev & English, Chad Gable & Shelton Benjamin and The New Day. WWE posted a video of Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable’s reaction to the news:

– Tonight’s episode of WWE NXT will feature the following matches, which includes a No Holds Barred match between Ruby Riott and Sonya Deville:

* Fatal Four-Way Qualifier: Trent Seven vs. Killian Dain

*Fatal Four-Way Qualifier: Johnny Gargano vs. Kassius Ohno

* No Holds Barred: Ruby Riott vs. Sonya Deville

Cody Rhodes is a prime example of someone who left WWE and reached even greater levels of success on his own terms on the independent scene.

While working for WWE is the dream of most professional wrestlers, there are a lot of performers who we think have more potential in other promotions.

Here are 5 WWE superstars who I think would benefit from working elsewhere:

Dolph Ziggler:

Dolph Ziggler

Recent reports have suggested that Dolph Ziggler isn’t content in his current role at WWE.  Having introduced Shinsuke Nakamura and Bobby Roode to the main roster with opening feuds that have seen him on the losing end overall, Dolph isn’t exactly progressing towards significant title opportunities that he was accustomed to previously in his career.

His current entrance, with no music, sums up his entire direction and drive at the moment: there is none!  I don’t believe that this is due to him personally, but how he is being used within the company.  The perfect example is his absence from this month’s Survivor Series PPV.

The plan for Dolph Ziggler should be to leave WWE, re-invent himself having toured other companies, and return to WWE a new man!

Zach Ryder:

The Hype Bros just don’t have the hype anymore; some may ask whether they ever had any hype at all.  And since returning from a knee injury after 6 months off, Zach Ryder has been involved in more losing matches than winning.  One of his last memorable moments came in the form of Wrestlemania 32:

But this is rumoured to have only come about because Neville had broken his ankle.

Since partnered with Mojo Rawley, The Hype Bros have been able to work their way into number 1 contender positions, but haven’t been able to convert these opportunities into meaningful  title reigns. With Chad Gable and Shelton Benjamin being pushed, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn potentially working as tag-team partners, as well as the return of Luke Harper and Erick Rowan as The Bludgeon Brothers, The Hype Bros aren’t likely to feature in many significant matches in the near future.

Another problem Ryder faces is his one-dimensional tag team partner, Mojo Rawley.  Mojo Rawley won the Andre The Giant Battle Royale Memorial Match… and has done nothing with it; the year before Baron Corbin won the same match.

Ryder could simply part ways with his tag partner, but it then appears difficult to place him in the ring with other superstars who have overtaken him in the singles division.  The worry would be that he ends up doing nothing, much like he is doing now.

Given the chance to leave WWE, Zach Ryder is just about young enough to alter his persona and break away from WWE, whilst also using his experience to put on good matches and build himself up out on the independent circuit.

It may seem unlikely, but let’s remember that Simon Gotch has done extremely well for himself since leaving WWE.

Gentleman Jack Gallagher:

Jack Gallagher is a shadow of his former self.  The 205 Live superstar was a fantastic face, with brutal headbutts and an umbrella named William the Third!  He has since turned heel and lost all moment that he had.  I personally believe that he should have won the Cruiserweight Championship from Neville.

However, the main reason why Jack Gallagher should move away from WWE is centred around the division he is in: 205 Live.  The show isn’t big enough for more than 1 or 2 main superstars, everyone else takes a backseat and can’t develop their career.  Furthermore, after the departure of Austin Aries and Neville, WWE brought in Enzo Amore and Kalisto – they didn’t even promote superstars from within the division!

Jack Gallagher needs to leave and continue this persona with other companies where he can earn and take genuine steps forward, rather than being ignored.  If I were him, I would be talking to Neville and other promotions, starting in the UK.

Chad Gable:

Unlike Zach Ryder, Chad Gable is currently part of a tag-team which could deliver in the next year.  Gable has teamed up with Shelton Benjamin after Jason Jordan parted ways with American Alpha to seek success as a singles competitor.  The truth is, Chad Gable is just as impressive on his own, and deserves to be on the singles scene as much as Jordan.  Unfortunately for Gable, Jordan was given priority.

While Chad Gable and Shelton Benjamin were able to defeat The Usos via countout, many say the match appeared weird and suspect an injury forced a quick end.  However WWE’s willing to have the match at all shows a desire to push the newly formed tag-team which could lead to title opportunities in the future.

The main point is: if Chad Gable becomes a singles competitor, he should leave WWE.  If he stays in a tag team, he should remain where he is already established.  Chad Gable had a few singles matches, and put on a great performance against AJ Styles, but didn’t appear to be rewarded for it.  He needs to be somewhere that casts him as a legitimate champion, which I believe is more achievable for him outside WWE.

Rusev:

Rusev looks the part, sounds the part, and sells an RKO better than anyone else.  He is also active outside the ring, and entertaining on twitter.

The bad news for him is that WWE have cornered him into a stereotypical role that has no freedom or creativity.  Getting Rusev to pursue nationalistic goals, like flag matches and Rusev Day, doesn’t develop his character and he just ends up helping others look better than he is.

Much like Dolph Ziggler, Rusev has also missed out on this month’s Survivor Series and is sat on the sidelines.

When he was featured on UpUpDownDown however, he didn’t appear as his in-ring character, and we were able to see the real Rusev which was much more entertaining.  It appears that the in-ring persona is largely controlled by the WWE creative team, which is holding Rusev back.  That’s not to say that Rusev isn’t successful in WWE, but I believe he has the potential to achieve even more outside the company.

There is no doubt that Rusev would draw huge numbers to any promotion outside of WWE; and he could finally explore new creative avenues that would only boost popularity among fans.  I believe people would go to see him as an ex-WWE superstar, but then continue watching to see how he develops on his own.

Unfortunately I can’t see him make the move away from WWE as the lure of potential success remains present for him, but I wish he would take the opportunity to set himself free.

Former WWE SmackDown Live Tag Team Champion Chad Gable recently did an interview with The Nottingham Post to promote the WWE’s current European tour. Gable discussed adapting to the WWE’s style when he signed with the promotion back in 2013, and teaming with both Jason Jordan and Shelton Benjamin. You can check out the highlights here:

Adapting to the WWE’s style upon signing with them in 2013:

“Coming in, I was big fan of technical wrestling but I quickly had to learn that is a small part of what we do. It took me a while to get to grips with that. I credit the Performance Center a lot of that. We had to do a lot of what we call promo classes and I was thrust in there from week one.

“I was thrown in front of 60 people I’d never met and it was just the most gut wrenching thing for me. It killed me every week. It was high and anxiety but like anything else, it gets easier week after week.”

Teaming with Jason Jordan and now teaming with Shelton Benjamin:

“I was disappointed in the fact we had a lot more to offer than we showed on Smackdown. We won the tag titles but that didn’t show what we are capable of. I’m very willing to try something new though. It also let me show what I can do as a singles wrestler.

“I hope me and Shelton get a chance to show our personality. The new team is something we’re working on. It so new to us and we have to get to know each other. We share the amateur background and that helps a lot. He’s considered a veteran now. He’s had a lot of success. He’s been stuck with a new kid and that could be frustrating for him, but we’ve had some success and he’s fully on board. I am too. Once we really get on the same page we’ll be formidable.”

You can read Gable’s full interview with The Nottingham Post by clicking this link here.

Chad Gable spoke with The Nottingham Post to promote the current WWE European tour. Here are the highlights:

Shelton Benjamin replacing Jason Jordan as his tag team partner:

“I was disappointed in the fact we had a lot more to offer than we showed on Smackdown. We won the tag titles but that didn’t show what we are capable of. I’m very willing to try something new though. It also let me show what I can do as a singles wrestler.

“I hope me and Shelton get a chance to show our personality. The new team is something we’re working on. It so new to us and we have to get to know each other. We share the amateur background and that helps a lot. He’s considered a veteran now. He’s had a lot of success. He’s been stuck with a new kid and that could be frustrating for him, but we’ve had some success and he’s fully on board. I am too. Once we really get on the same page we’ll be formidable.”

Adapting to the WWE style:

“Coming in, I was big fan of technical wrestling but I quickly had to learn that is a small part of what we do. It took me a while to get to grips with that. I credit the Performance Center a lot of that. We had to do a lot of what we call promo classes and I was thrust in there from week one.

“I was thrown in front of 60 people I’d never met and it was just the most gut wrenching thing for me. It killed me every week. It was high and anxiety but like anything else, it gets easier week after week.”

You can read the entire interview here.

Shelton Benjamin recently spoke with the WWE’s official website about his return to the sports entertainment company. Here are the highlights:

Returning to the company:

“It’s all kind of surreal, and I don’t feel like it’s hit me yet. Since I left the WWE, I moved to improve myself as a performer and come back. I really didn’t expect it to take seven years. So, it’s been a long road and I’m still trying to get used to it. It’s all very surreal. Being back with WWE is an emotional high and a professional high. So far, so good.”

His new tag team partner Chad Gable:

“Without a doubt. Chad is a great athlete, just like Charlie. Before I even get into that, though, Charlie Haas is, to this day, still my best friend. He’s my brother. We talk all the time. WWE created family when they put us together. We worked hard together and he helped push me. When you insert Chad Gable, obviously, there is going to be the comparisons to Charlie. I don’t like to make that comparison because they’re two different people. This isn’t The World’s Greatest Tag Team, this isn’t American Alpha — we are something completely different. But, obviously, there are similarities. They’re both tremendous athletes. They both have great drive, and even in the past couple of weeks I’ve seen Gable show signs of the intensity that Charlie had.”

You can read the entire interview here.

On Tuesday’s SmackDown Live, Shelton Benjamin returned to action in a tag team match with his new partner, Chad Gable. The duo defeated The Ascension in what was Shelton Benjamin’s first match in a WWE ring since 2010.

After the match, Benjamin and Gable were interviewed backstage for this SmackDown Live Fallout video. Benjamin said “without a doubt,” they put the other SmackDown tag teams on notice. They’re here for one reason – to be tag team champions. They will not stop, rest or relent until the achieve their goal.

Chad Gable hyped up Shelton Benjamin’s experience and even though Jason Jordan moved to the RAW brand, he now has a partner that has been to the top of the mountain before. He likened himself to a sponge and said he’s ready to learn from the collegiate wrestling star.

Shelton Benjamin also tweeted after the show, revealing that it was a tough road back to WWE full of physical and mental challenges. According to him, the warm reception from the WWE Universe made it all worth it.

The road back tough. Full of physical/mental high/lows. To hear the roar of the @WWEUniverse tonight made it all worth It.

— Shelton J. Benjamin (@Sheltyb803) August 30, 2017

SmackDown GM Daniel Bryan had a conversation with Chad Gable backstage. Daniel Bryan said that he was sorry that Gable’s tag team partner joined the RAW roster. Gable got frustrated that all everyone wants to talk to him about is the fact that Jason Jordan is Kurt Angle’s son. Gable said that he is focused on his future in WWE and not his past. Daniel Bryan agreed and said that he had a surprise for him.

Daniel Bryan said that he didn’t just give Jason Jordan to WWE RAW, he asked Angle to help him sign one of his friends.

Bryan then announced that he signed Shelton Benjamin and Benjamin joined them backstage. Bryan suggested that Gable and Benjamin form a tag team and suggest that they give it a test drive next week on SmackDown.

Gable was pumped up and said that sounded like a great idea. Bryan then shook Benjamin’s hand and welcomed him to SmackDown as the crowd cheered.

Pro Wrestling Sheet is reporting that the storyline with Jason Jordan and Kurt Angle is going to be a lengthy one that will play out over the next few months.  Last night on RAW, Kurt Angle finally revealed the secret he has been receiving text messages about for some time now on RAW. Angle came down to the ring and announced that a women he dated in college gave birth to a baby boy. That boy was put up for adoption and grew up to be WWE Superstar Jason Jordan.

Jordan is now set for a solid midcard level push and his relationship with RAW GM Kurt Angle will grow as Angle tries to be a father figure for Jordan. The storyline is set to be a central part of RAW going forward. Chad Gable posted this tweet following last night’s revelation:

Ummmmm….. what?

— Chad Gable (@WWEGable) July 18, 2017

It was mentioned last night during a WWE Network interview with Jordan and Angle that Jordan will officially be moving over to the RAW roster. The other half of American Alpha, Chad Gable, is staying on SmackDown and there are no plans for him to join Jordan on RAW. Gable posted the following on Instagram and stated that American Alpha has “done everything doable”:

https://www.instagram.com/p/BWrHkL_ANUn/

"I don't want any preferential treatment. I'm very proud of who my dad is, but I got this on my own." – @JasonJordanJJ on joining #RAW… pic.twitter.com/ATpUc43HlX

— WWE Network (@WWENetwork) July 18, 2017

One half of former WWE SmackDown Live Tag Team Champions American Alpha, Chad Gable, recently did an interview with Sports Illustrated to talk about a variety of professional wrestling topics. Gable discussed starting over on the main roster, getting the opportunity to work with Kurt Angle, and his goals for WrestleMania. You can check out what he had to say here:

Starting over on the WWE main roster:

“The process of re-establishing ourselves was new to us. We started in Orlando at the Performance Center, and the local crowd saw us even before we were on NXT. When we got to SmackDown Live, we had to assume that no one had ever seen us before. That’s what we did, and it’s very hard to start over, but Jason and I were ready for this. We told ourselves ahead of time that we were going to prepare extra hard because not everyone watches NXT, and we’re working to attain our goals.”

Getting to work with WWE Hall Of Famer Kurt Angle:

“I saw Kurt at the hotel during WrestleMania weekend, and he still trains really hard. I figure there will be sometime when he is going to stop, but after watching him train, it doesn’t look like it. Jason and I are both very excited to sit and chat with him, and hopefully pick his brain. He carved the path that we’re following, he set the example for what we want to do, and he’s the best in the world at it.”

His goals for WrestleMania:

“In amateur wrestling, my goal was always to get to the Olympics. My goal in WWE is to make it to WrestleMania 34 with my partner and win the tag team titles. I’d love to be in a spot where we are defending the titles at next year’s ‘Mania, and hopefully that is in a marquee match in a prime place on the card. We can show people that tag team wrestling is, in my opinion, the greatest form of pro wrestling.”

You can read Gable’s full interview with Sports Illustrated by clicking this link here.

This week on Smackdown, AJ Styles narrowly defeated former Olympian, Chad Gable, in singles competition. The match would determine who would move on to compete in the battle royal later that night, with a chance to earn a US title shot.

While Styles would win the match, Gable won over the respect of the former WWE champion. The two shook hands after their match, and the sportsmanship continued on social media later.

It's scary how motivating a night like last night is for a guy like me.

Thanks for bringing it, @AJStylesOrg… but I'll be back for more. pic.twitter.com/U8CpfI4BYL

— Chad Gable (@WWEGable) July 5, 2017

@WWEGable is scary good. I've got 10+ years experience on the guy and he gave me all I could handle. Last nights real winner…#wweuniverse

— AJ Styles (@AJStylesOrg) July 5, 2017

Chad Gable Single’s Push?

Fans of American Alpha will note that little mention was given to Gable’s tag-team or tag-team partner on Tuesday night. This fact is fuelling unconfirmed speculation that Gable could be in-line for a singles push, and American Alpha might not be a team for much longer.

Since forming in 2015, American Alpha has won the NXT and Smackdown tag-team championships. Since losing the belts to the Usos in March, the team has struggled to stay relevant in Smackdown’s tag division.

Chad Gable competed for the United States at the 2012 Olympic Games. Those games were held in the same city which hosts Smackdown tonight: London, England.

Gable qualified for the games by winning the US Olympic Trials in 2012 at 84kg. He would win his first bout at the Olympics, before getting eliminated in his second.

I have some fond memories of London.

Plan on making more tonight. #AmericanAlpha#SDLive pic.twitter.com/jbm6KnlO0O

— Chad Gable (@WWEGable) May 9, 2017

American Alpha in WWE

Chad Gable & Jason Jordan were paired together in NXT, and quickly became the division’s hottest tag team. American Alpha helped usher out the old era in the division by beating the Vaudevillains and Ascension. They would feud with Blake & Murphy and the Revival before getting called-up to the main roster in 2016.

American Alpha defeated the Wyatts, Slater & Rhyno, and the Usos in a 4-corners elimination match to win Smackdown’s tag titles on December 27th, 2016. They recently dropped two straight title matches to the Usos however, to both drop the titles, and fall out of title contention.

Recently, Breezango won the “Beat the Clock Challenge” to become the new #1 contenders to the Usos. American Alpha will need to put together a winning streak if they are to be back in title contention after Backlash.

American Alpha are your new SmackDown Tag Team Champions after winning a Four Corners Elimination Match on the final SmackDown of 2016 from Chicago. After The Usos and Heath Slater & Rhyno were eliminated, Gable and Jordan went on to pin Randy Orton and Luke Harper for the win. Harper and Orton were defending under Freebird Rules.

This is the first championship reign on the main roster for Gable and Jordan.

Below are some photos from the match:

The ORTON ONSLAUGHT is in FULL EFFECT, as @RandyOrton RAMS @WWEGable's back into the barricade! #SDLive #TagTeamTitles pic.twitter.com/IlJ32NSEvy

— WWE (@WWE) December 28, 2016

Cannonball off the apron by @WWEGable!! #AmericanAlpha is willing to do WHATEVER IT TAKES to get the #SDLive #TagTeamTitles! pic.twitter.com/lmOK1IQRS0

— WWE (@WWE) December 28, 2016

CONGRATULATIONS to the NEW #SDLive Tag Team Champions…. @WWEGable and @JasonJordanJJ!!!! #TagTeamTitles pic.twitter.com/eR8XWjCWhM

— WWE (@WWE) December 28, 2016

An ALPHA tag team indeed…. #AndNew#TagTeamTitles #SDLive @WWEGable @JasonJordanJJ pic.twitter.com/KhbSAvPzGy

— WWE (@WWE) December 28, 2016

Is there dissension brewing between The #WyattFamily's @RandyOrton and @LukeHarperWWE? #SDLive #WildCardFinals @WWEBrayWyatt pic.twitter.com/E5f9waWBsZ

— WWE (@WWE) December 28, 2016

.@WWEBrayWyatt is clearly not happy about @WWEGable and @JasonJordanJJ's win… #SDLive pic.twitter.com/SZSqt6cAgg

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) December 28, 2016

WWE Smackdown (11/29)

This week’s episode of Smackdown kicked off with Renee Young in the ring. Alexa Bliss and Becky Lynch joined her in the ring for a contract signing for their Smackdown Women’s Championship match this Sunday at WWE TLC. Alexa Bliss told Renee Young to get out of the ring. Bliss also scolded Renee for her fashion choices. Becky Lynch then compared Alexa to her four year old cousin. Bliss continued to insult Becky Lynch and they both signed the contract. After they both signed it, they brawled in the ring. Lynch hit the Becksplex on Alexa Bliss. Alexa then fought back and shoved Becky through a table off of the turnbuckle.

Reaction: I thought this promo was really good. Becky Lynch can be a bit of adventure on the microphone but tonight she did a good job. Alexa Bliss is excellent on the microphone and her facial expressions are hilarious. I find this feud to be much more interesting than the one between Charlotte and Sasha Banks on Raw.

.@AlexaBliss_WWE blocks @BeckyLynchWWE's #Bexploder, and sends the Champ crashing through the table! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/gbOh4XYeVU

— WWE (@WWE) November 30, 2016

Dolph Ziggler & Kalisto vs Baron Corbin & The Miz

Corbin dominated the match early and threw Ziggler out of the ring. The Miz was then tagged in and he immediately grabbed a ladder from under the ring. Ziggler got up and connected with a DDT on The Miz outside the ring. Ziggler then hit Corbin with a Superkick. Back in the ring, Ziggler tagged in Kalisto. The Miz hit Kalisto with a boot to the face and dove outside the ring onto Ziggler. Miz then launched Ziggler into the barricade surroinding the ring.

Kalisto then dove onto Corbin outside the ring. Ziggler hit a Superkick on The Miz as he was lying on the ring apron. Maryse shoved the ladder into Ziggler’s face. Kalisto landed the Salida del Sol on The Miz in the ring. Before the referee could count to three, Baron Corbin nailed Kalisto in the back with a chair. The referee then disqualified The Miz and Baron Corbin.

Winners via DQ: Dolph Ziggler & Kalisto

Reaction: This was a quick match but it served a purpose. Ziggler will be facing The Miz in a ladder match for the IC Title on Sunday. Corbin will be squaring off with Kalisto in a chairs match at TLC. Both the ladder and a chair came into play during this match. I like it when things make sense, don’t you?

.@BaronCorbinWWE, you can't do that until Sunday at #WWETLC! @HEELZiggler & @KalistoWWE win by DQ! #SDLive pic.twitter.com/IDPvwvv19j

— WWE (@WWE) November 30, 2016

American Alpha were interviewed backstage about their match tonight versus Bray Wyatt and Randy Orton. Gable and Jordan stated that they will prove again tonight why they are the best team in the WWE.

Bray Wyatt, Randy Orton and Luke Harper were then shown backstage. Orton interrupted Wyatt and questioned Luke Harper. Orton asked Harper if he was going to do what needs to be done tonight against Kane. Harper looked aggravated and Wyatt instructed Harper to go send Kane back to hell. There is obviously some friction between Harper and Orton. I do not believe that Harper is completely sold on Orton joining the Wyatt Family.

"Harper … go send @KaneWWE back to HELL!" – @WWEBrayWyatt #SDLive #WyattFamily pic.twitter.com/GLnJn5MvrR

— WWE (@WWE) November 30, 2016

Carmella came down to the ring for a match but that never happened. Carmella gave a special message to John Cena. Carmella apologized for what she will do to his girlfriend, Nikki Bella at TLC. Carmella claimed that she was going to rearranged Nikki’s “Bella twins” and her face as well. Nikki Bella came sprinting from backstage and attacked Carmella. The referee seperated them and that allowed Carmella to haul off and slap Nikki in the face. Nikki then got up and continued the assault on Carmella.

"@JohnCena, I want to publicly apologize for what I'm going to do to your girlfriend [at #WWETLC]." – @CarmellaWWE #SDLive pic.twitter.com/lNqKBBw8PB

— WWE (@WWE) November 30, 2016

Ambrose Asylum w/ Dean Ambrose

Dean Ambrose introduced James Ellsworth as his first guest on the Ambrose Asylum. An “Ellsworth!” chant broke out amongst the crowd. Ambrose poked fun at Ellsworth’s old wrestling boots. Ellsworth thanked Ambrose for helping him become an official WWE Superstar. Ellsworth stated that if Ambrose ever needed anything he would do it. Ambrose asked Ellsworth to wash his car, do his laundry and pick him up a six-pack and some candy for later.

Ambrose asked Ellsworth who he will be rooting for this Sunday at TLC. Ellsworth stated that it would be an honor to wrestle Dean Ambrose for the WWE World Championship. AJ Styles interrupted the party and stood on the announce table. Styles poked fun at Ellsworth and called him a dummy. Ambrose stated that Styles had then lost to a dummy three times.

Styles got in the ring and claimed that he was tired of Ambrose making him out to be a joke. Styles demanded respect and claimed that he was going to beat the hell out of Ambrose at TLC. Styles dared Ellsworth to show up during his match againt Ambrose at TLC. Ambrose claimed that Styles was weak mentally. Ambrose stated that this Sunday the fun and games were over. Ambrose went on to state that he will recapture the WWE World Championship at TLC.

Styles pushed Ellsworth into Ambrose who fell into a ladder. AJ then whipped Ellsworth into a table and smashed Dean Ambrose with the steel steps. Styles returned to the ring and beatdown Ellsworth. Styles hit Ellsworth with a ladder and then tossed him out of the ring. Ellsworth’s feet got caught up in the bottom rope and Styles hit him with a steel chair. AJ then hit the Styles Clash on Ellsworth off of the steps onto the floor outside the ring.

Reaction: Finally, Styles got the upper hand on Ellsworth and Ambrose. I find Ellsworth to be very entertaining but I’m not really interested in seeing him in the WWE World Championship picture. Having said that, this was a very good promo. There has only been one match in the first hour and fifteen minutes of tonight’s Smackdown. Usually that would annoy me but tonight’s promos have all ended in brawls.

"@AJStylesOrg has just delivered the MOTHER OF ALL #StylesClashes to @RealEllsworth!" – @MauroRanallo#SDLive #WWETLC pic.twitter.com/KKihIY7zO4

— WWE (@WWE) November 30, 2016

Luke Harper vs Kane

Kane and Harper tied up to begin the match. Kane shoved Harper down and Harper got back up and they locked up again. Harper bounced off of the ropes and hit a couple of shoulder blocks but Kane was not phased. Kane then leveled Harper. Luke Harper got back up and hit Kane with a series of uppercuts. Kane once again shrugged them off and came right back at Harper. Smackdown went to a commercial break with Luke Harper outside the ring with a shocked look on his face.

When Smackdown returned, Harper was in control of the match and had a Chinlock applied to Kane in the center of the ring. Kane battled out of the Chinlock and hit a Jawbreaker. Kane went for a Chokeslam but Harper blocked it and kicked Kane in the head. Harper went for a pinfall but Kane kicked out at two. Kane fought back and connected with a DDT on Harper. Kane followed it up with a Sidewalk Slam and went for a pin but Harper kicked out. Harper battled back and hit Kane with a Dropkick to the ribs. Kane was affected and hunched over in the corner. Harper leaped on him twice and connected with a couple of shots to the ribs. Harper then then climbed to the second turnbuckle and hit Kane with a couple of punches.

Kane fought out of the corner by hitting a Powerbomb on Harper. Kane once again went for the Chokeslam but Harper grabbed the rope. Harper connected with a Sidewalk Slam of his own but Kane kicked out once again. Kane slammed Harper to the mat and climbed to the top rope. Kane went for a Clothesline off of the top rope but Harper ducked it and drilled Kane with a Superkick. Kane once again powered out of the pinfall at two. Harper then climbed to the top rope but Kane got up and punched him in the face. Kane then joined Harper on the turnbuckle and connected with a massive Superplex to Harper.

Both men slowly got back to their feet and began to trade punches. Kane blocked a punch by Harper and grabbed his throat. Kane then connected with a Chokeslam and picked up the victory.

Winner: Kane

Reaction: When you think of Kane versus Luke Harper it doesn’t sound like it would be a good match. This match was actually quite good. The announcers made a comment after the match that Bray Wyatt will not be happy with Luke Harper following this loss to Kane. I’m intrigued with the Wyatt Family storyline right now. It appears that Harper may be on his way out and Orton will be replacing him. I’m curious if this will wind up with Orton turning his back on Bray after he has already destroyed the Wyatt Family from the inside. I do not really know where they are going with this and that is a good thing. Luke Harper has always been one of the more underrated Superstars on the roster. I wouldn’t mind seeing him in the Intercontinental Championship picture and having a single’s run of his own. Harper can work well with almost any male Superstar on the Smackdown roster. I think if you put him up against someone like Baron Corbin they would put on some very physical and entertaining matches.

#CHOKESLAM by @KaneWWE!!! ONE TWO THREE!! #SDLive @LukeHarperWWE pic.twitter.com/46nPuNNTqZ

— WWE (@WWE) November 30, 2016

Smackdown Tag Team #1 Contenders Match: Randy Orton & Bray Wyatt vs American Alpha

Randy Orton and Jason Jordan started out the match. Jordan went on the offensive to start things off. The WWE cut to Slater and Rhyno watching the match from backstage. This was humorous because the television screen they were watching was black for a second and essentially Slater and Rhyno were staring at nothing.

Bray Wyatt entered the match and Jordan went to jump onto him but Wyatt ducked and Jordan went flying into the ropes. Bray tagged in Orton and he continued the assault on Jordan. Gable tagged himself in and immediately connected with a Crossbody off the top rope on Orton. Gable climbed to the top rope again but Wyatt knocked him to the outside of the ring and Smackdown went to a commercial break.

When Smackdown returned, Wyatt and Gable were in the ring. Wyatt hit Gable with a DDT on the ring apron. Wyatt then went for a pin but Gable kicked out at two. Orton then entered the match and applied a Chinlock to Gable. Orton hit a Powerslam on Gable and once again went for a pinfall but it was unsuccessful. Orton tagged in Wyatt and Gable connected with a Dropkick then sent Bray to the mat. Gable tried to tag in Jordan but Bray got up and punched Jordan off of the ring apron.

Bray mounted Gable on the mat and punched him in the face several times. Orton was tagged back in and propped Gable up on the top rope. Orton connected with a Superplex on Gable. Jason Jordan and Bray Wyatt were then tagged in. Jordan leveled Wyatt with an overhead Belly to Belly Suplex. Chad Gable hit Orton with a Cannonball off of the ring apron. Back in the ring, Jordan hit a German Suplex on Bray Wyatt.

The lights then went out and Luke Harper was ringside. Bray went for the Sister Abigail but Gable prevented it. American Alpha then went for the Grand Amplitude but Orton hit Gable with an RKO out of nowhere. Jordan went to hit Bray with a Spear but Harper pulled Bray out of the way. Wyatt then hit the Sister Abigail on Jordan for the victory. Wyatt and Orton will now face Slater and Rhyno at TLC this Sunday. Slater and Rhyno were interviewed backstage but AJ Styles interrupted. Styles stated that nobody cared about the Tag Team titles. Ambrose then appeared out of nowhere and attacked Styles and Smackdown went off the air.

Reaction: This was a very solid match to close out a good episode of Smackdown. It appears that Harper and Orton are back to getting along for now. Tonight’s episode was promo-heavy but they all were effective. TLC is shaping up to be an exciting show and I cannot wait to watch it on Sunday.

Winners & #1 Contenders For The Smackdown Tag Team Championships: Randy Orton & Bray Wyatt

#SisterAbigail!! The #WyattFamily is going to #WWETLC to face @HeathSlaterOMRB and @Rhyno313!! #1Contender pic.twitter.com/telCi0c0T9

— WWE (@WWE) November 30, 2016

205 Live (11/29)

Austin Aries and Corey Graves joined Mauro Ranallo on commentary. All of the Superstars on 205 Live were on the entrance ramp and they were introduced to the WWE Universe. A vignette for the Bollywood Boyz was then shown.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/803797913251917824

Bollywood Boyz vs Drew Gulak & Tony Nese

Harv and Gurv Sihra started out the match on the offensive. Tony Nese was laid out by both of them but was able battle back and tag in Gulak. For the next few minutes, Gulak dominated the match. Nese was tagged back in and he continued the assault on the Bollywood Boyz. Gulak got back into the match and maintained control of the match.

Nese got back in the match and he applied a Chinlock to one of the Bollywood Boyz. Harv battled out of the Chinlock and connected with a Neckbreaker. Harv tagged in Gurv and he hut Gulak with several chops and a kick to the face. The Bollywood Boyz hit a double Superkick on Drew Gulak for the pinfall victory.

Winners: The Bollywood Boyz

Reaction: Not the best way to start off the debut episode of 205 Live. There were some cool spots in this match but overall it was very clunky.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/803800282756878338

TJ Perkins and Brian Kendrick had a confrontation. Perkins stated that he is still owed a rematch and that he wants Kendrick to retain the Cruiserweight Championship tonight. Perkins wants Kendrick to keep the belt so he can get his rematch and take the title away from him.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/803801771600580608

Ariya Daivari vs Jack Gallagher

Gallagher started out this match extremely cocky and applied a few submission holds to Daivari while posing for the crowd. Daivari battled back and but Gallagher escaped his Headlock. Gallagher did a handstand on the top turnbuckle and then took Daivari down. Gallagher then tied Daivari up in a knot in the center of the ring and taunted him from the corner. Gallagher then hit him with a running kick and Daivari escaped the knot.

Daivari connected with a Neckbreaker on Gallagher and slapped him in the face a couple of times. Daivari applied a Chinlock but Gallagher fought out of it and connected with a couple of Dropkicks. Gallagher then headbutted Daivari and hit him with a Dropkick in the corner for the victory.

Winner: Jack Gallagher

Reaction: This match was bizarre and entertaining. Jack Gallagher may look ridiculous but he is fun to watch. The main positive to take from this match is that Gallagher was able to get the crowd into it. That is something that has escaped the Cruiserweight division when it is featured on Monday Night Raw.

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/803803266274369537

Cruiserweight Championship Match: Brian Kendrick (c) vs Rich Swann

Kendrick started off the match in control. Swann battled back and hit a Dropkick. Kendrick kicked out of a pinfall and Swann applied a Chinlock. Kendrick reversed the Chinlock into a German Suplex. Kendrick attacked Swann in the corner but Swann fought back and connected with several chops to the chest of Kendrick.

Swann landed a Tiger Bomb on Kendrick and Kendrick rolled out of the ring. Swann followed him out of the ring and hit a Summersault Clothesline off of the barricade. The action returned to the ring and Kendrick connected with another German Suplex. Kendrick then hit a Neckbreaker and Swann’s head hit the top turnbuckle. Swann then fell out of the ring and to the floor.

Swann was able to get back in the ring before the referee counted him out. Kendrick immediately hit him with a Suplex. Kendrick went for the Captain’s Hook but Swann blocked it. Swann then connected with a Michinoku Driver on Kendrick. Swann followed it up with a kick to the face of Kendrick. Swann went for the Standing 450 but Kendrick got his knees up and then locked in the Captain’s Hook.

Swann was able to reach the bottom rope and the crowd cheered him on. Both men were on the top turnbuckle and Kendrick bit Swann’s wrist and hit Sliced Bread. Swann kicked out and the crowd started to chant “this is awesome!”. Swannt connected with three spinning heel kicks in a row and pinned Kendrick for the victory.

After the match, Swann thanked his mother that has passed away and dedicated the match to her. Kendrick was also interviewed on the entrance ramp. Kendrick blamed the loss on TJ Perkins for playing mind games with him earlier in the night. Kendrick also stated that the WWE Universe should not get used to Swann as the Cruiserweight Champion. Kendrick vowed to get his title back and walked away.

Winner & New Cruiserweight Champion: Rich Swann

https://twitter.com/WWE205Live/status/803809979639558144

Reaction: 205 Live started off slow but picked up momentum and wound up being a pretty decent show. I thought the match between Kendrick and Swann was very good. I hope that the Cruiserweight division gets some more time on Monday Night Raw as a result of this show but I doubt that will be the case. Overall, both Smackdown and 205 Live were good shows tonight.

What did you think of this week’s episodes of Smackdown and 205 Live? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.

Chad Gable recently spoke with South Carolina Now and expressed interest in a potential American Alpha vs. Sheamus and Cesaro match but noted that they still have unfinished business with The Usos.

“We have some unfinished business with the Usos we need to iron out,” Gable said. “I’d like to work with Cesaro and Sheamus. I believe we really could tear the house down with a match against them. The whole SmackDown tag division is really thriving right now and in the very near future, you’re going to see them step up big time.”

Regarding partner Jason Jordan, Gable says he wouldn’t change a thing about their tag team.

“Jason was doing a lot of things in NXT before I came,” Gable said. “We started to work together and it just made sense, so American Alpha was born. We have such good chemistry and are always on the same page. It just seems everything goes so smooth and fluid. We work so well together and I wouldn’t change anything.”

Gable also commented on being a pro wrestling fan his whole life, naming Chris Benoit, Randy Savage and Rey Mysterio as stars he fell in love with as a kid.

You can read the full interview by clicking here.

SmackDown star Chad Gable recently spoke with Men’s Journal about American Alpha’s successful debut on last week’s SmackDown Live. Topics discussed include why he thinks American Alpha is so popular, his relationship with Jason Jordan on and off screen and the state of WWE’s tag team scene.

Gable revealed that he and Jordan were actually quite nervous about their first match on the main roster and didn’t know if anybody would know who they were. They were very pleasantly surprised when they heard the crowd reaction. He added that it really helped when Daniel Bryan hyped them up after they were drafted. The warm reception from the WWE Universe also made him feel like fans were familiar with their work in NXT.

As for his relationship with Jason Jordan on and off screen, Gable says it’s interesting how lucky they got by being paired together.

“He was there (in NXT) a few years before me, grinding away. We didn’t really develop a relationship for a while. He was in more advanced classes than me and then they came up with this idea to put us together. From moment one, it just clicked. We just got along and we share the same values and ideas. I think some of it comes from us both sharing backgrounds as amateur wrestlers, being competitive. We just get it – we’re on the same page, no matter what it is. We try to describe it to people and it’s hard – we finish each other’s thoughts, when we’re on the road together, we’re on the same page – wanting to go work out, go eat, or go to the show. No matter what, we click. As a tag team, it doesn’t get much better than that.”

When asked about WWE’s tag team scene, he said there are just endless teams they want to work with, including The Club and The Usos. The tag team divisions on RAW and SmackDown are both thriving and they want American Alpha to set the standard, even if that ruffles the feathers of the other teams. “We want to raise the level of competition. If everyone starts to be competitive with each other and wants to one-up each other every single night, sparks are going to fly and it’s going to be magic before you know it.”

“American Alpha” Chad Gable and Jason Jordan made main roster debuts on this week’s SmackDown Live from Nashville. They defeated “The Vaudevillains” Simon Gotch and Aiden English in an impressive showing.

After the match, the former NXT tag team champions said they’ve come to SmackDown to set the tag team scene on fire and look to be strong contenders for the [not yet announced] SmackDown tag team titles.

– Prior to WWE’s brand split announcement, there were plans in place to bring NXT Tag Team Champions American Alpha to the main roster this fall. A lot of creative plans were upended once the decision was made to have exclusive rosters on RAW and SmackDown, but Jordan and Gable are considered “ready” for the call up. Especially with a need to round out those rosters this summer, few acts have more upside than these two.

– The Brooklyn Brawler reportedly got backstage heat prior to his WWE release after calling into Taz’s live Internet radio show (it’s not a podcast). There were reports going around that “an incident” led to him departing the company after 30+ years. The Taz radio show appearance is not the official reason he was let go, but it was one of the final straws.

Source: Wrestling Observer

It looks like Shinsuke Nakamura will just be known as Nakamura to the WWE/NXT universe. The King Of Strong Style is listed by his last name only in the Wrestlemania 32 program being sold at the WWE Superstore and considering Chad Gable, Jason Jordan and Apollo Crews are on the same page with their full names — it seems like the name drop will happen.

It’s interesting to note that Nakamura is listed with NXT talent in the program, leading many to think he will spend more time than most believed on NXT programming. There is not much known about Nakamura’s direction with NXT/WWE, but this could be a good indication. Or it simply could just be they have him in the NXT section because he is debuting with NXT.

Nakamura is set to debut at NXT TakeOver: Dallas in a match against Sami Zayn . It has been one of the most talked about and highly anticipated matches on both NXT and WWE’s weekend events. The event is live on the WWE Network, Friday April 1.

– Triple H announced yesterday that NXT will will be holding a live event from Kingston, Rhode Island on April 22nd. Tickets go on sale this Friday.

– Gabe Sapolsky announced on Monday that NXT General Manager William Regal will be in attendance for EVOLVE’s upcoming live events from Queens and Brooklyn, New York:

https://twitter.com/BookItGabe/status/704469900358717440

– NXT star Chad Gable got an endorsement this week from Olympic wrestling legend Dan Gable. Dan Gable won the gold medal at the 1972 games without giving up a single point. He was also the head wrestling coach at the University of Iowa and led his students to 15 NCAA titles in a 21 year priod (76-97).

Even the great Olympic Champion Dan Gable is #ReadyWillingAndGable! Get on board!@WWE @WWENXT @USAWrestling pic.twitter.com/w8fed2ufde

— Chad Gable (@WWEGable) February 28, 2016

NXT tag team specialists Jason Jordan and Chad Gable will be appearing at the upcoming EVOLVE live event from Orlando, FL on Saturday, January 23rd. They’ll be joined by NXT General Manager William Regal.

https://twitter.com/BookItGabe/status/686713615236395009

WWN Alerts shows that Jordan & Gable will be doing a special autograph signing before the show. Regal is advertised as making a Special Appearance.

For ticket information, visit DGUSA.com.