A familiar face was making his way around the WWE Performance Center this week in Orlando, Florida.

Former WWE Superstar Kalisto was at the PC this week doing some guest coaching throughout the week. According to Fightful, He also did some producing of matches, participating in the NXT live event on Friday night. In particular, it was noted that Kalisto produced the women’s matches on the show.

Kalisto has been absent from WWE since he was released in April 2021. He had been with the company for eight years but was released during one of their rounds of “budget cuts.”

Since his time with WWE ended, Kalisto has had some health issues including a nasty bout with Covid-19. He did work one match for AEW on November 3, 2021, teaming with Aero Star in a losing effort against FTR on AEW Dynamite.

It’s unknown right now if Kalisto’s guest coaching and producing for WWE will continue or if it was a one-off. We’ll update as more becomes known.

Kalisto first achieved notoriety in his WWE run when he teamed with Sin Cara as the Lucha Dragons, winning the NXT Tag Team Championships in the process. As part of the main roster, he went on to capture the WWE United States Championship on two occasions and the WWE Cruiserweight Championship once.

Check out the Top Rope Nation wrestling podcast for your weekly dose of pro wrestling talk featuring interviews, analysis and exclusive news. Apple – Spotify – YouTube. 

Being part of the Lucha Dragons with Sin Cara was one of the highlights of Kalisto’s WWE career. The duo even won the NXT tag team titles during their time together.

The star now known as Samuray Del Sol recently spoke to Lucha Libre Online. He talked about many things and also revealed the original name for their tag team.

According to Kalisto, the Lucha Dragons were originally going to be called The Lucha Lions. However, he didn’t like the name very much so he suggested a change:

“Initially, The Lucha Dragons were going to be the Lucha Lions. I didn’t like it so much. I love the Japanese culture. So why not a dragon? Let’s try Lucha Dragons. Sounds better.”

• Kalisto On Post WWE Plans, Potential Return

Sin Cara returned to NXT after a main roster run and formed the Lucha Dragons tag team with Kalisto in May 2014. The duo went on to defeat The Ascension for the NXT tag team championships in September the same year.

They held the title for a few months before losing it to Blake and Murphy in January 2015. The Lucha Dragons made their main roster debut in March 2015. They remained a team until they decided to go their separate ways before the 2016 draft.

Kalisto could have been the next big Mexican star for WWE but the company didn’t do much with him during his time with the promotion.

The high-flying star recently had an interview with Chris Van Vliet where he talked about a number of things and opened up about his time in WWE.

Kalisto also talked about his future plans. He was asked about a potential return to WWE. Replying to it, he said that he is not holding his breath and has other plans:

“I’m not going to hold my breath I’m just going to focus on me. I am going to focus on my mental state, which is very important. I’m going to try and fix myself first. I’m trying to see what I can do. I like challenging myself a lot.

I have never boxed before, but I want to box.” said Kalisto, “I’m still going to wrestle here and there. If the time is right, here and there, I am going to give it a shot.”

• Kalisto Files Trademark As He Returns to His Previous Ring Name

The former 205 Live star was signed by WWE in 2013 and was released from the promotion in April earlier this year. His career highlight was probably winning the US title in 2016.

Apart from this, Kalisto also revealed the biggest regret of his time WWE was never pitching a feud he had in mind to Vince McMahon. You can check out his comments on the matter here.

Recently released WWE wrestler Kalisto has spoken up about the single biggest regret he has from his time in WWE. Regrets can be haunting things, especially when they were within our own control the entire time.

For Kalisto, the regret was not something he did or something that was planned and then scrapped. Rather, it was something he wanted to propose but never felt bold enough to do. Despite having the approval of the wrestler involved.

The plan? A mask versus mask match with Rey Mysterio. Kalisto detailed the plan during an interview with Chris Van Vliet for his Insight podcast.

Kalisto was released from WWE after an 8 year run with the company. He was a solid performer and held several championships during his time. Yet sadly, never felt bold enough to suggest his idea. That was until just before his release. He had his entire idea mapped out in a storyboard, and was finally ready to give the pitch to Mr McMahon but was released before he had the chance.

Everybody Was On-Board with Kalisto’s Mask vs Mask Idea

As he talked, Kalisto explained how he had taken his idea to many of his colleagues, including Daniel Bryan, Edge and of course, Rey Mysterio. All of them thought his idea was fantastic. Paul Heyman going so far as to brand it a work of genius, urging the young star to pitch his idea.

Sadly, we never got to see Kalisto go up against Re Mysterio in a WWE ring. That is something that he openly admits his own fault.

 The man formerly known as Kalisto has not yet made any announcements about his ring return. However, he has already confirmed that he will revert to his old ring name of Samuray del Sol and has two new t-shirts available through his website or via Pro-Wrestling Tees.

For WWE wrestler Kalisto can get back into the squared circle as of tomorrow. His 90-day release clause complete. While he has not given any indication as to where or when he will return, one thing is looking likely. He will be returning to his old ring name of Samuray del Sol.

He has been keeping himself in shape since he was let go if his recent social media posts are anything to go by.

Earlier this month, he applied for a trademark to use the Samuray del Sol name for merchandise including shirts, hoodies and caps.

Before signing with WWE in 2013, Kalisto wrestled in several promotions as his del Sol character, including CZW and Dragon Gate and Evolve. He never held any championships in these promotions, which is surely something he will be eager to set straight now.

Kalisto Honed His Skills in an Eight Year WWE Run

During his eight years with WWE, the man formerly known as Kalisto honed his skills inside and outside of the ring. He won two US championships, and the cruiserweight title and the NXT tag team titles. He was part of both the Lucha Dragons and the Lucha House Party. In 2016 he was even ranked as the 25^th best wrestler in the PWI 500.

However, he was deemed surplus to requirements in WWE and was released in the now traditional post Wrestlemania cull. However, Kalisto is just 34 years old, and there are plenty of promotions who would benefit from adding him to their roster. As with most released talent, he has something to prove after becoming a marginalized figure at the end of his WWE run.

Kalisto is adept as both a singles and a tag-team competitor. He could make a splash in any roster and in any weight class. He has not announced any booking right now. However, a mysterious countdown clock on his website has just 21 hours to go, which indicates something big is coming.

WWE will present a 2-hour NXT tonight featuring the best moments from 2018 as well as a big main event featuring Matt Riddle once again taking on Kassius Ohno. On 205 Live, qualifying matches for the Royal Rumble fatal 4-way cruiserweight title match will take place.

NXT 1/2 Preview

Matt Riddle vs Kassius Ohno

Matt Riddle defeated Kassius Ohno at Takeover with just one clean shot. Ohno got some revenge on Riddle, however, by attacking him after he defeated Punishment Martinez in December. Tonight, Riddle and Ohno will go one-on-one once again.

NXT 2018 Award Nominees Announced

WWE is advertising that the 2018 NXT award nominees will be announced tonight. Those nominated and not nominated could lead to some future storylines as well.

2018 Re-Visited

Other than the announcing of the 2018 award nominees and the rematch between Ohno and Riddle, the rest of tonight’s special two-hour episode will feature the best NXT had to offer over the last calendar year.

205 Live 1/2 Preview

Royal Rumble Fatal 4-Way Qualifier: Drew Gulak vs The Brian Kendrick

Two cruiserweight matches will take place on 205 live tonight. Both will serve as qualifiers for the fatal four-way cruiserweight championship match scheduled for the Royal Rumble. In the first qualifying match tonight, former allies turned rivals will clash when Drew Gulak meets the Brian Kendrick.

Royal Rumble Fatal 4-Way Qualifier: Lio Rush vs Kalisto

Lio Rush could be someone WWE has their eye on. He is regularly featured on Monday Night Raw as the hype man for Bobby Lashley. It’s possible WWE sees him as a potential star in the making on 205 Live as well. Rush can book his ticket to the Royal Rumble with a win over former cruiserweight champion, Kalisto, tonight.

In an interview with Steve Austin, Kalisto credits Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio with inspiring him to pursue a career in wrestling.

Kalisto sat down with Stone Cold Steve Austin at 317 Gimmick Street on the latest episode of The Steve Austin Show, and discussed what Eddie and Rey meant to him as he was starting out in the wrestling business.

“Eddie not only made noise in the Latin community, he made noise everywhere. Same with Rey,” Kalisto said. “Eddie and Rey set the world on fire and they made some noise. You know what? That inspired me to actually follow my dream,” he said.

“Rey, when he won his world title, he did a book signing at my college in Chicago. I met up with him. I was five months in wrestling,” Kalisto said. “When I saw him, I said ‘I’m in the process of being a luchador, I’m learning so much, and you’re a good inspiration.’

Kalisto continued.

“At the time, I didn’t know he was going to win the title. And when I met him, he’s a little shorter than me, and that gave me inspiration. If he could do it, I could do it.”

Kalisto said that he would have loved to have had the opportunity to meet Eddie as well, but that in a sense, he can tap into Guerrero’s knowledge now, through his friendship with Mysterio.

“Rey, right now, he’s giving me so much advice. I told him I wish I could have met Eddie and picked his brain. And he taught Rey so much, and now I’m picking his brain.”

Kalisto also discusses being able to provide inspiration for the next generation, breaking in, his career, and much more. The full interview can be heard below.

When quoting this transcript, please credit SEScoops.com. This transcript has been edited and condensed for clarity.

https://youtu.be/DNOtwNBLgFs

Kalisto found out over the weekend that things don’t always go as planned a wrestling match.

Footage of Kalisto accidentally being unmasked at a recent WWE house show has surfaced on various social media platforms.

WWE held a live event on late last month in Anaheim, CA at the Honda Center that saw Kalisto challenge Cedric Alexander for the Cruiserweight Title.

The current champion accidentally ripped off Kalisto’s mask. This is when the 205 Live star was forced to hide his face in the corner while the referee picked up the mask from the center of the ring and hand it over to him.

Thus, Kalisto would then roll out of the ring to put his mask back on to continue the contest that would later see Alexander come out on top and retain his title.

Following the match, Alexander raised Kaito’s hand as a way of showing him some respect.

https://twitter.com/ClippsMcGee/status/1011092108604653569

According to an Instagram post by Kalisto’s wife on Thursday night, her WWE star husband received stitches and underwent an MRI following an unspecified assault. She also speculates that Kalisto may have suffered a fracture from the attack.

It appears that she’s talking about Kalisto being struck in the face by a water bottle that a fan hurled on this week’s episode of 205 Live from Newark, New Jersey as she enclosed a photo of her husband showing a busted lip.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bc_OhmojG8Q/

The water bottle incident occurred as Kalisto was laying outside of the ring to sell a beatdown from Gentleman Jack Gallagher and The Brian Kendrick (teaming with Gran Metalik against Kendrick and Gallagher, the match got ruled a disqualification after Kendrick attacked Kalisto while Gallagher was the legal man).

The incident got caught on camera and shows a water bottle bouncing off the floor and nailing Kalisto in the mouth.

According to this tweet by WWE’s Talent Parking Coordinator, the fan who hurled the bottle got caught.

https://twitter.com/WWEParkingGuy/status/943364005145571328

• What happened to Lex Luger?

Former WWE Cruiserweight Champion Kalisto was injured at the conclusion of this week’s 205 Live broadcast when a fan threw a water bottle that struck him in the face. The incident was shown on 205 Live and several fans posted video:

https://twitter.com/mrdangerously/status/943320993669566464

Update: Kalisto’s wife issued the following statement on the incident, noting that Kalisto required several stitches as as result of the assault, underwent and MRI and has a possible fracture.

https://twitter.com/1stladylucha/status/944032138252439553

Reaction to Kalisto Being Hit with Water Bottle

Several people have commented on the incident and the potential danger posed to performers by such actions.

Kalisto was hit by a water bowl from a fan. He laid on the ground shaken up for a while. @SeanRossSapp pic.twitter.com/dVvDghfE3h

— Justin J. Lopez (@stellar_jl319) December 20, 2017

Can't believe someone would sit through Smackdown to watch 205 live only to throw a bottle at Kalisto https://t.co/atzEy8iThV

— Dave (@strawhaterx) December 20, 2017

To the guy who threw a full water bottle at @KalistoWWE during 205live… Way to be a piece of shit!!!

— Sarath a.k.a Mikaze / Mr. Castle (@IamMikaze) December 20, 2017

people were so into the post match that the closing shot was Kalisto getting nailed in the face with a water bottle.

— luchablog (@luchablog) December 20, 2017

Kalisto

31-year-old Emanuel Alejandro Rodriguez is better known to wrestling fans as Kalisto. He is a 2x United States champion and a former cruiserweight champion as well.

While Kalisto is billed as being from Mexico, he was actually born in Chicago and now lives in Orlando. He did live in Mexico City as a child for a few years, however, and became a big Lucha Libre fan during those years.

– After months of teasing a break-up, The Hype Bros are officially no more. Tonight’s WWE SmackDown saw Rowan and Harper quickly defeat Mojo Rawley and Zack Ryder in a rematch from last week. As seen in the video below, Mojo attacked Ryder after the match and laid him out.

"The #HypeBros are DEAD! YOU HEAR ME? YOU HEAR ME?" #SDLive @MojoRawleyWWE @ZackRyder pic.twitter.com/EtHgwu6seD

— WWE (@WWE) November 29, 2017

– The dark match before tonight’s SmackDown in Lexington, KY saw Tye Dillinger defeat Mike Kanellis in singles action.

– It looks like Kalisto will be making his return to WWE 205 Live on tonight’s show after being away last week. He tweeted the following today:

Being down doesn’t make me want to leave. It makes me want to fight. The ring is home. Where I belong. I’m coming back tonight. #205Live
Soy el Rey Del Aire..seguiere demonstrando mi #LuchaLuchaLucha

— Samuray Del Sol® “Manny $” (@gloat) November 28, 2017

– Below is a promo for this week’s WWE SmackDown episode, featuring WWE Champion AJ Styles vs. The Singh Brothers in a 2-on-1 Handicap Match plus Kevin Owens vs. Randy Orton:

#WWEChampion @AJStylesOrg will battle @SinghBrosWWE in a 2-on-1 #HandicapMatch TOMORROW NIGHT on #SDLive at 8/7c on @USA_Network! #RAW pic.twitter.com/kZhPGcI4WC

— WWE (@WWE) November 28, 2017

– WWE taped the following matches tonight in Knoxville, TN for this week’s Main Event episode:

* Apollo Crews vs. Curt Hawkins
* Kalisto and Gran Metalik vs. Jack Gallagher and Brian Kendrick

– Paige revealed on tonight’s RAW that “Absolution” is the name for her new group with Mandy Rose and Sonya Deville. RAW was supposed to feature Absolution vs. Sasha Banks, Mickie James and Bayley but the match never happened as Bayley and Mickie were taken out backstage. Absolution faced off with Sasha in the ring and triple teamed her after offering her the chance to pledge allegiance to the group. Below is video from tonight’s segment:

It looks like @SashaBanksWWE would rather try and fight than pledge allegiance to @RealPaigeWWE… #RAW pic.twitter.com/weFYElCssf

— WWE (@WWE) November 28, 2017

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7hXlS0xdpo4?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– Above is video of Samoa Joe talking to Mike Rome after teaming with Finn Balor to defeat Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson on this week’s Survivor Series go-home edition of RAW. Joe says its no secret that he and Balor haven’t seen eye to eye but Balor is a strong competitor and a strong part of Joe’s team for Sunday. Joe says Balor is not a weak link. Regarding Triple H being named the fifth member of Team RAW, Joe says Jason Jordan is the young upstart and the prodigy, but Joe isn’t here to compete with potential – he’s here to compete with professionals.

Joe says it’s unfortunate that Jordan got hurt but it’s not unfortunate for the team because Jason Jordan is a weak link. Joe says now that Jordan was injured, it’s a good thing Triple H did what he did because Joe would’ve. Joe says now they’ve upgraded and The Game is on their side, but so is the most dangerous player. Joe walks off to end the segment.

– As noted, the two-hour WWE Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show on Sunday will feature Kalisto vs. WWE Cruiserweight Champion Enzo Amore. Tonight’s WWE 205 Live episode will feature a birthday celebration for Kalisto, who turns 32 years old today. Below is video of Kalisto and Akira Tozawa talking to Mike Rome after their loss to Drew Gulak and WWE Cruiserweight Champion Enzo Amore on RAW. Kalisto says the loss fires him up and motivates him for Sunday. Kalisto believes they had the match won but he’s confident about leaving Survivor Series with the title.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6lEyXCGpCQ8?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– Triple H and SmackDown Commissioner Shane McMahon tweeted the following after The Game named himself the final member of Team RAW on last night’s Survivor Series go-home edition of RAW from Atlanta. Sunday’s pay-per-view will now see Triple H team with Braun Strowman, Samoa Joe, Finn Balor and Team Captain Kurt Angle to face Team Captain Shane, John Cena, Bobby Roode, Randy Orton and Shinsuke Nakamura. Triple H wrote:

Things just got interesting…#SurvivorSeries is LIVE this Sunday ONLY on @WWENetwork.#GameTime pic.twitter.com/vx1fEkUYC5

— Triple H (@TripleH) November 14, 2017

Team #Raw certainly upped it’s “Game” tonight! But will fall @WWE #SurvivorSeries due to lots of egos, dissension and a complete lack of team focus. Go Blue!

— Shane McMahon (@shanemcmahon) November 14, 2017

– As noted, Bayley earned the fifth spot on the women’s Team RAW Survivor Series team by defeating Dana Brooke and Mickie James in a Triple Threat on tonight’s show. Below is video of Bayley talking to Mike Rome about the win until partner Sasha Banks interrupts to congratulate her. They discuss the match and Bayley has no doubt that Team RAW will beat Team SmackDown for the second year in a row. As noted, the women’s 5-on-5 Traditional Elimination Match on Sunday will feature Captain Alicia Fox, Banks, Bayley, Nia Jax and Asuka vs. Captain Becky Lynch, Charlotte Flair, Naomi, Tamina Snuka and Carmella.

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

– A birthday celebration for Kalisto has been announced for this week’s WWE 205 Live episode. It’s believed that WWE Cruiserweight Champion Enzo Amore will crash the party as the two prepare to face off for the title on the Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show.

– Braun Strowman is responsible for another destroyed ring as he sent Kane through the mat with a running powerslam during the closing segment of tonight’s RAW in Atlanta. The two were to have a singles match as the main event but the match never officially began. Below are videos from tonight’s big angle:

Now you see them… NOW YOU DON'T! WHAT JUST HAPPENED?!#RAW @KaneWWE @BraunStrowman pic.twitter.com/wyjZvtKTq4

— WWE (@WWE) November 14, 2017

.@BraunStrowman put @KaneWWE THROUGH THE RING on #RAW! pic.twitter.com/dTWZggWyae

— WWE (@WWE) November 14, 2017

Kalisto vs. WWE Cruiserweight Champion Enzo Amore is now official for Sunday’s WWE Survivor Series Kickoff pre-show, which begins at 5pm EST and runs for 2 hours.

Also official for Sunday’s pay-per-view is The Shield vs. The New Day in six-man action.

Below is the updated card for the November 19th Survivor Series pay-per-view from the Toyota Center in Houston:

5-on-5 Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
Team Captain Kurt Angle, Braun Strowman, Finn Balor, Samoa Joe, Jason Jordan vs. Team Captain Shane McMahon, Randy Orton, Bobby Roode, Shinsuke Nakamura, John Cena

5-on-5 Traditional Survivor Series Elimination Match
Team Captain Alicia Fox, Nia Jax, Asuka, Sasha Banks, Bayley vs. Team Captain Becky Lynch, Carmella, Tamina Snuka, Naomi, Charlotte Flair

RAW vs. SmackDown
WWE Universal Champion Brock Lesnar vs. WWE Champion AJ Styles

RAW vs. SmackDown
WWE Intercontinental Champion The Miz vs. WWE United States Champion Baron Corbin

RAW vs. SmackDown
RAW Women’s Champion Alexa Bliss vs. SmackDown Women’s Champion Natalya

RAW vs. SmackDown
RAW Tag Team Champions Sheamus and Cesaro vs. SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos

RAW vs. SmackDown
The Shield (Roman Reigns, Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose) vs. The New Day (Kofi Kingston, Big E, Xavier Woods)

Kickoff Pre-show: WWE Cruiserweight Title Match
Kalisto vs. Enzo Amore

WWE Cruiserweight Champion Kalisto recently did an interview with Bleacher Report to talk about a variety of professional wrestling topics. Kalisto discussed Enzo Amore and what he thinks he brings to the Cruiserweight division, who he’d like to share the ring with on 205 Live, and what it was like to win the Cruiserweight Title. Here are the highlights:

What Enzo Amore brings to the Cruiserweight division:

“The only thing that I believe he brought to 205 Live was his catchphrases. How long is that going to last? It’s going to get old. It’s going to get boring. And people are going to know, that dude can’t go. It’s just a matter of time.”

Who he’d like to share the ring with on 205 Live:

“I want to work with all of them. I want to go against everybody. Everybody’s a world traveler. They all have experiences. They have all wrestled against the best. He’s [Gran Metalik] a really known luchador in Mexico. He can go. He can even teach me a thing or two. I can’t even imagine the things we can do inside the ring.”

What it was like winning the Cruiserweight Championship:

“I was really emotional when I won. I didn’t expect for me to win that day, that fast. What a special day. It was on the birthday of Eddie Guerrero, one of the great Latino inspirations of all time. Rey [Mysterio] and Eddie, they’re one of the reasons I’m here, They opened doors for luchadors like me to step foot in the WWE ring. Everyone deserves a shot. Enzo was closing those doors. I’m opening them.”

Check out Kalisto’s full interview with Bleacher Report by visiting this link here.

– Yesterday (Sun. October 15, 2017) a photo began floating around showing Kalisto holding up the Cruiserweight Title, which looked to have been changed to a black color scheme as opposed to it’s original purple look. Many WWE fans actually approved of the look and claimed the color change made the title look better. Unfortunately it seems that fans were fooled by a Instagram filter, and the title is still it’s usual all purple color scheme – for now:

Sorry folks, the cruiserweight title strap is not black. Instagram filters are deceptive. pic.twitter.com/txDhQKO9Gg

— HeelByNature.com (@HeelByNatureYT) October 16, 2017

– The WWE posted the following video of the Top 10 Scariest Superstar Falls. You can check that out here:

– After capturing the WWE Cruiserweight Championship from Enzo Amore in a Lumberjack Match last Monday on Raw, the title has a new look.

Kalisto revealed the new WWE Cruiserweight Championship in this photo from backstage at tonight’s WWE live event in Yakima, Washington. As you can see, the belt now has a black strap instead of a purple strap.

Make sure to stop by and join the #LuchaParty in #WWEYakima vamonos Orale!.. pic.twitter.com/bOIiWDszkN

— Samuray Del Sol® “Manny $” (@gloat) October 15, 2017

– Former WWE ring announcer Lilian Garcia sang the national anthem before the New York Jets played the New England Patriots today at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Here is video from her performance.

Garcia noted on Instagram that she holds the record of singing the national anthem the most times at a Jets game with today being her 12th performance.

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

• Check out the complete list of WWE Wellness suspensions

After Kalisto won the Cruiserweight Championship last night on Raw, many believed that we’ll see the rematch between him and the former Champion Enzo Amore on TLC.

Though a new post on the company’s official website has left fans wondering if we could see their rematch for the title as soon as tonight during the 205 Live.

WWE posted the following preview for tonight’s episode of 205 Live, questioning if Enzo will invoke his rematch clause against the Masked Star tonight:

“Will Enzo Amore invoke his rematch clause against new WWE Cruiserweight Champion Kalisto?

Last night on Raw, Enzo Amore’s gift of gab got him into a tight spot with Raw General Manager Kurt Angle. The Certified G believed took issue with Kalisto receiving a WWE Cruiserweight Championship opportunity at WWE TLC: Tables, Ladders and Chairs. Angle listened to Enzo’s complaints and responded by telling The Realest Guy in the Room he would defend the WWE Cruiserweight Championship against Kalisto later that evening in a Lumberjack Match.

With few allies outside the ring, Enzo battled the Lucha Libre sensation but lost the WWE Cruiserweight Championship following a jaw-dropping Salida Del Sol from the top rope. The era of Enzo was over as Cedric Alexander and Mustafa Ali hoisted the new WWE Cruiserweight Champion on their shoulders in celebration. Following his victory, Kalisto dedicated the match to WWE Hall of Famer Eddie Guerrero, whose birthday was last night. For his part, Enzo was angered by the outcome of the match, specifically blaming Ali, who pulled Enzo from the ring during a pinfall in retaliation for Enzo attacking him earlier in the bout.

Has Kalisto restored the dignity of the division that the WWE 205 Live roster feels was lacking during Enzo’s reign, or will The Certified G invoke his rematch clause and attempt to win back his lady?”

It’s worth noting here that according to a report from Pwinsider, the original plans for Raw were for Enzo to defend his title against Neville, though it’s not known when the officials changed their mind.

It’s yet to be seen when or where Enzo Amore actually receives his rematch, though, after the company’s recent post, it’s possible that it will happen sooner rather than later.

– As you all most likely know, Sami Zayn turned heel at Hell In A Cell this past weekend to assist Kevin Owens in defeating Shane McMahon in the evening’s main event. In response, “KO” helped Zayn defeat Mike Kanellis at last night’s (Mon. October 9, 2017) WWE live event from Lansing, Michigan. After the match Owens cut a promo and proclaimed that he and Zayn defeated Shane together this past Sunday.

– We previously reported that Kalisto dedicated his Cruiserweight Championship win last night to Rey Mysterio and the late WWE Hall Of Famer Eddie Guerrero (as it was his birthday last night). Mysterio later responded to Kalisto and claimed that Guerrero is smiling after the win:

Eddie… @reymysterio this one is for you!.. #ImagineLuchaAchieve pic.twitter.com/smVKXgPdF8

— Samuray Del Sol® “Manny $” (@gloat) October 10, 2017

Gracias- What a B-Day present for Eddie, He Smiling! You guys killed It! First time ever CW match in the main event for #RAW #MakingHistory https://t.co/G1LdOLbjYV

— ♛Rey Mysterio❔ (@reymysterio) October 10, 2017

-As seen on this week’s episode of Raw last night, Kalisto picked up a surprising victory over Enzo Amore in a lumberjack match to become the new Cruiserweight Champion.

After the show, the new title holder made a tweet as seen below in which he dedicated his victory to Eddie Guerrero and Rey Mysterio:

Eddie… @reymysterio this one is for you!.. #ImagineLuchaAchieve pic.twitter.com/smVKXgPdF8

— Samuray Del Sol® “Manny $” (@gloat) October 10, 2017

– After the show went off air on Raw last night, the dark main event saw the Raw Tag Team Champions Seth Rollins and Dean Ambrose defending their titles against The Bar Sheamus and Cesaro.

The match was comparatively short as it wrapped up after only 6 minutes when Ambrose hit Dirty Deeds on Cesaro and pinned him to retain the tag titles.

After the match, the duo cut a promo and thanked the fans of Indianapolis for the creation of, and the reception for The Shield. Below are some of the photos from the Dark Main event:

@WRESTLEZONEcom Rollins wearing Kalisto ring gear left at ring for dark match tag title match lol pic.twitter.com/RJLLG4k60t

— Brandon Reef (@BrandonReef) October 10, 2017

WWE Superstar Braun Strowman has been on a rampage recently. He attacked Roman Reigns during a backstage interview with Michael Cole. Strowman wound up flipping over an ambulance that Roman Reigns was trapped inside. The attack was so brutal, Roman Reigns hasn’t appeared on WWE TV since the April 10th episode of RAW. Strowman and Reigns will face off at WWE Payback on April 30th.

Strowman attacked several other WWE Superstars during this past week’s episode of RAW. Strowman beatdown, Goldust, R-Truth and Kalisto. Braun referred to Kalisto as garbage and tossed him into a trash bin.

Kalisto hasn’t forgotten about the attack by Strowman and being thrown into the trash. Kalisto will look to get revenge this Monday night when he faces Braun Strowman in a Dumpster Match. Kalisto challenged Strowman to the match on Twitter and RAW GM Kurt Angle made it official.

Monsters have weaknesses Braun, you are no monster. I challenge you to a dumpster match. Then I'll reveal the kind of monster trash you are.

— Samuray Del Sol® “Manny $” (@gloat) April 22, 2017

It's about the size of the fight in the dog… U want it @KalistoWWE, U got it. Braun vs Kalisto in a #DumpsterMatch Monday on #Raw! #RawGM

— Kurt Angle (@RealKurtAngle) April 22, 2017

BREAKING NEWS: Per #Raw GM @RealKurtAngle, @BraunStrowman will battle @KalistoWWE in a #DumpsterMatch this Monday! https://t.co/X3q5re9owD pic.twitter.com/KQm7pQte8w

— WWE (@WWE) April 22, 2017

Former Smackdown Tag Team Champions Heath Slater and Rhyno are now on the Raw roster. Slater and Rhyno haven’t been featured prominently on Smackdown since losing the titles.

Former #SDLive #TagTeamChampions @HeathSlaterOMRB and @Rhyno313 are also on their way to Monday Night #RAW! #SuperstarShakeup pic.twitter.com/S4Gf5l7Q2D

— WWE (@WWE) April 11, 2017

It was also announced that Kalisto will be making the switch from Smackdown to Monday Night Raw. Kalisto and Apollo Crews recently had a feud with Dolph Ziggler. Now, both Crews and Kalisto are a part of the Monday Night Raw roster.

The high-flying @KalistoWWE is coming back to Monday Night #RAW as part of the #SuperstarShakeup! pic.twitter.com/GETuuFwQ0l

— WWE (@WWE) April 11, 2017

It was also announced earlier in the show that Curt Hawkins was now a part of the Raw roster. He appeared on the show and immediately made an impact.

A WARM WELCOME to Monday Night #RAW for @TheCurtHawkins, courtesy of @WWETheBigShow! #SuperstarShakeup pic.twitter.com/qNw9CuSySJ

— WWE (@WWE) April 11, 2017

Check back here on SEScoops and join our live discussion to find out which other WWE Superstars will be changing brands during the Superstar Shake-Up.

– Brock Lesnar has been announced for the 2/17 RAW live event from Dallas. Tickets go on sale this Friday but a pre-sale is going on right now with the password BROCK. As previously reported, Lesnar will be working another Friday live event in 2017 – 3/10 in Buffalo.

– WWE producer Road Dogg BG James had praise for Baron Corbin and Kalisto for their Chairs Match at TLC last night. He wrote:

.@BaronCorbinWWE and @KalistoWWE just amazed me with their innovative chair match and the physicality in it! Wow, #OUDK #WWETLC #SDLive

— Brian G. James (@BrianRDJames) December 5, 2016

– As seen in this tweet, Triple H took to Twitter last night and praised Alexa Bliss after she captured the SmackDown Women’s Title from Becky Lynch at TLC:

It's a long road before you "make it"
…but that's what makes it all worth it. Congratulations @AlexaBliss_WWE #AndNew #WWETLC pic.twitter.com/zpb7RXhcu5

— Triple H (@TripleH) December 5, 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.