WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels recently joined the “In This Corner” podcast to talk about several professional wrestling topics. One such topic was his WrestleMania 24 match against two-time WWE Hall Of Famer “The Nature Boy” Ric Flair. The pair put on one of the best matches in WrestleMania history. It was the last match Flair would work inside of a WWE ring.

During his interview on the show, Michaels divulged that he took creative control over the match and choreographed it himself. He described himself as a “control freak”:

“Truth be told, when it came to that kind of stuff, I am a bit of a control freak. Emotionally, I just knew where I wanted–especially with that match, that might quite honestly it was my ‘love letter’ to Ric Flair. My way of trying to show him, not only the friendship that we have, but also the impact that he had on a 15-year-old me, and trying to convey that to him through a wrestling match, and knowing that I couldn’t be the only guy that he had that effect on. You hope that the other 80,000 fans out there get that; clearly everyone did, and the millions at home did.

“It’s sort of making that decision as a performer to say, look, this is something I want to do, please let me do it. It’s not because you don’t want them to do anything to mess it up, it’s your feelings and emotion, so you have to be the one that is driving that match if it makes any sense. That is why I was so adamant about that match. Honestly, that is how most of my matches were. I probably wrestled only one way too much from my heart than to my head, but honestly for me that is what made the difference in those matches, which was for me to do it in more from a 15-year-old fan in me.”

You can listen to Michaels’ interview on the “In This Corner” podcast by clicking here.

H/T Wrestling Inc for the transcriptions

Current WWE Champion AJ Styles recently did an interview with India Today to talk about several professional wrestling topics. One such topic was the rumored match that was planned between himself and WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels at last year’s Royal Rumble pay-per-view (PPV). It turns out that Michaels shot the idea down:

“He [Michaels] said no. I’m not doing it. But being in the ring with someone like Shawn Michaels or the Undertaker and being able to learn from those guys will be a blessing. I would love to be in the ring with Shawn Michaels. Similar size, similar styles and to be in the ring with someone like that and all the knowledge he has. It would be a classic.”

“The Phenomenal One” was also asked about how he thinks “The Modern Day Maharaja” Jinder Mahal is doing in WWE. Styles said Mahal is doing great and he has all the makings of being the star he already is:

“Jinder is doing great. He has everything that he has got here. Looks like a star, acts like a star. That’s why he is one. He is perfect for the WWE, perfect for India. He is great and to see him be the star and come along is really cool. This business is really tough and Jinder went through some tough times in this business and now to see him where he is after all the hard work he has put in, he deserves everything and he has earned everything in the WWE.”

You can read Styles’ full interview with India Today by clicking this link here.

– Below is video of WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus talking to Charly Caruso after her brief appearance at RAW 25 on Monday night. Trish talks about how it always feels familiar when she returns, no matter how long she’s been gone, and how the fans still pop for her after all this time.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5LXWZIvLcfc?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– As noted, Chris Jericho returned to WWE TV for RAW 25 and did a backstage segment with Elias, adding him to The List. Below is Fallout video with Jericho adding more names to The List – Tom Phillips, Mike Rome, Cathy Kelley and others working backstage.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jSi1LpVnwyg?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– Below are videos of The Balor Club reflecting on their big RAW 25 moment with DX, Triple H discussing what RAW 25 meant to DX and a rare photo-op with DX, The Balor Club and WWE Hall of Famer Scott Hall. Also below is footage of Triple H speaking to the Manhattan Center Grand Ballroom after RAW ended.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IlHo9Q9Bv8c?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CW3KG-9Hds8?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-wXGr1z3vA?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

EXCLUSIVE: Break down what you miss when #RAW25 went off the air…@TripleH @ShawnMichaels @WWERollins @FinnBalor @KarlAndersonWWE @LukeGallowsWWE @WWERoadDogg @SCOTTHALLNWO @RealBillyGunn @TheRealXPac pic.twitter.com/J3cHZQiDR3

— WWE (@WWE) January 23, 2018

WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels recently did an interview with NBC Sports to promote tonight’s RAW 25 in New York. Michaels was asked for his thoughts on potentially returning to the Manhattan Center, as RAW 25 will be simulcasted from both the Manhattan Center and the Barclays Center, for the event after wrestling Max Moon at the venue for the first ever episode of Monday Night RAW:

“Well I gotta tell you, I hope that’s where I get to go. No one has made any decisions yet as far as I know. As much as I love the Barclays Center, I would rather get to go back to the Manhattan Center. I don’t know that at the time I was mature enough to appreciate how unbelievably cool and awesome that building was. It’s sort of like a rock band. They start out in those places and then you want to get to play in stadiums.

“As phenomenal as it is to be in front of 80 or 90,000 people in a stadium, it’s really hard to beat going back to those intimate places, filling them up, and feeling that electricity, that passion, that excitement in that environment. For me if I were to get to pick, that’s where I would want to go back to, especially on that night.”

Back in April of 2007 Michaels and John Cena wrestled a near one hour match with John Cena on Monday Night RAW. The pair came off of a WrestleMania 23 match against one another for the WWE Title. Michaels didn’t find out how long they would be working until he got to the building:

“So that turned out at the very end of our European tour that year. We had already been on the road there for over a week. I found out what we were doing when I got to the building and was like, ‘Oh my goodness!’ When you hear that the match is going an hour, it seems like a long time, but when you’re working with someone like John so much … I’ve had the opportunity to go back and watch that match and it just flows right by. That’s obviously a testament to John and heck I’ll even pat myself on the back a little for that one (laughs).

“It’s amazing how trying to do that hour-long match didn’t seem like such a big mountain to climb. It really helps when you have a history with someone. John and I were coming off of the WrestleMania [23] match and because of that, we had a decent amount of story points to work around, so it was easy. It obviously doesn’t hurt when you’re in a phenomenal environment as well. Let’s face it, the folks in the U.K. are pretty easy to wrestle in front of. They are a very passionate group. I gotta say that’s one of my favorite matches.”

In 2002 Michaels returned to WWE TV by joining the nWo, and he claims he had no idea where the storyline was headed when he did:

“I honestly don’t know where it was supposed to go because I had just gotten back to WWE. The extent of it, that I knew, was that Kevin [Nash] was supposed to work with Hunter at the next Pay-Per-View. I know that we had turned on Booker and then we turned on [Big] Show, but I honestly don’t know where it was going because I was just finding my footing and didn’t know enough to be asking someone, ‘Where is this going?’ I had no intention of wrestling at that point and then of course, so many things changed after Kevin went down. I need to hunt someone down and find the answer.”

You can read Michaels’ full interview with NBC Sports by clicking this link here.

Shawn Michaels was recently interviewed by the Daily Mirror UK and commented on the once rumored match-up between he and AJ Styles.

When asked about the possible dream-match, here is what HBK had to say,

“There was talk about it possibly happening at WrestleMania. I think he’s an unbelievably talented young man. I wish I was 10 to 15 years younger because there are so many great guys. But it’s very important to me, I wouldn’t have retired unless I was ready to walk away. I’m flattered that every year when WrestleMania comes up people talk about me coming back, but I enjoy my time with my family, I enjoy watching WrestleMania and I also enjoy watching WWE move into the future.”

Shawn Michaels Retirement

Speaking on the importance of staying retired, Michaels had this to say:

“It’s very important that continues to happen and the only way for it to do so is for some of us in a dignified way to walk away. Much as it would be interesting to be in there with some of those young men, it’s their time now and I think it’s important that we focus on them and the future of the WWE.”

It doesn’t look as though we will see HBK wrestle anymore but that isn’t to say he doesn’t think about who he would like to face. Speaking on the current roster, HBK mentioned a few guys he would like to face in the ring:

“There is just a litany of guys. I can go from Braun Strowman to Finn Balor and then you think about all the different guys between.”

– Below is video of new WWE NXT Women’s Champion Ember Moon talking to Kayla Braxton after defeating Kairi Sane, Peyton Royce and Nikki Cross at “Takeover: WarGames” in Houston. Ember calls the win a dream come true and talks about how her hard work from the indies through NXT has paid off. Ember says this is just the beginning and she will just keep doing the same thing she’s been doing because she guarantees it will be hard to get the title off her. Ember says this is her fire and her passion, so she will continue to do what she does day in & day out.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDnGHkF4LQ0?rel=0&w=560&h=315]

– The post-Takeover NXT TV tapings will take place this Wednesday from Full Sail University. As noted, this Wednesday’s NXT TV matches were taped before Takeover: Johnny Gargano vs. WWE UK Champion Pete Dunne and Ruby Riot vs. Sonya Deville.

– The “Ab Contest” between Johnny Gargano and WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels obviously did not air at Takeover but HBK did tweet this video of their mini-segment from backstage:

Cast your vote for @JohnnyGargano or me!! #AbOff pic.twitter.com/2bjwC7rnl8

— Shawn Michaels (@ShawnMichaels) November 19, 2017

Today, November 9th, marks the 20th anniversary of Survivor Series 1997 and the infamous “Montreal Screwjob,” an event that would change the course of pro wrestling history.

To mark the occasion, WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels spoke to ESPN about the incident, calling it “the worst day I can recall in the entire 25 years I was in the wrestling business.” It’s a lengthy interview that’s worth checking out in its entirety, as Michaels discusses all aspects of his involvement.

“You don’t go into something like that not understanding [the consequences],” said Michaels. “You may end up having to fight your way out of the building, or getting in a couple fights, or who knows. But one of the biggest things in the wrestling business is when you go out there with guys, you’re trusting one another with your bodies.

“With all the differences Bret and I had, they never made their way into the ring. And so believe it or not, that more than anything, was the thing. Even though you’re asked to do it, being obedient to your boss, it isn’t fun. Pain, or getting in a fight, or getting beat up, that stuff heals eventually.

“It would’ve been a lot easier, honestly, to be able to say ‘Yeah, I knew and I did it,’ and face whatever happened,” said Michaels, “Because at least then, it’d be out in the open and whatever needed to happen would happen right there and then.”

Visit ESPN.com to read the full interview.

The 10th of August 1997 marked the day that D-Generation X was formed and has since marked itself permanently into the history books of sports entertainment, alongside other legendary groups like the nWo.  Therefore WWE are celebrating their 20th anniversary throughout 2017.

They previously released this backstage video of a photo shoot where modern day superstars pay respect to the rebellious legends.

Now, WWE has released a special collection of GIFs on Giphy for the WWE Universe to use.  The trove of GIFs features Shawn Michaels, Triple H, Road Dogg, X-Pac, The New Age Outlaws and more from their era defining band of superstars.

Here is a selection of what you can expect to find in the collection to use on Whatsapp, Twitter and most other forms of social media.

The question now: Will the likes of The Shield still be household names and celebrated within the WWE Universe by 2032?  I think D-Generation X has a reply…

Added bonus:

Here is my personal favourite DX moment… (although strictly speaking, this is just Shawn Michaels and Triple H)

WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels will square off against Johnny Gargano at NXT Takeover: WarGames in a contest to determine which one of them has better abs.

HBK proposed they both train to see who can get in the best shape by Takeover. At the show, they’ll compare abs to determine the winner.

Michaels noted that at 52, he’s not wrestling anymore and needs something to work for.

He posted a video on Monday night explaining the challenge to Gargano:

The “Challenge” has been made!! @JohnnyGargano & I will “Face Off” at NXT War Games…sorta!! #RAW #AbOff pic.twitter.com/FG72xFyLpU

— Shawn Michaels (@ShawnMichaels) October 24, 2017

‘Johnny Wrestling’ accepted the challenge:

It's officially official. November 18th. It'll be Johnny Gargano vs Shawn Michaels… in an #AbOff? #JohnnyWrestlingVSMrWrestlemania https://t.co/iEw6UcxT4G

— Johnny Gargano (@JohnnyGargano) October 24, 2017

Michaels has been working as a trainer at the WWE Performance Center and will be a special guest referee for NXT Champion Drew McIntyre’s title defense against Adam Cole at an NXT live event from San Antonio that takes place the night before.

NXT Takeover: WarGames takes place on Saturday night, November 18th from Houston, Texas during Survivor Series weekend.

WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels will serve as the special guest referee for an NXT Championship match during Survivor Series weekend.

Drew McIntyre will defend against Adam Cole with HBK as the referee on Friday night, November 17th at the NXT live event from San Antonio, Texas at the Aztec Theatre.

This non-televised show takes place the night before NXT Takeover: WarGames. It’s worth noting that Ring of Honor will be holding a show in San Antonio that night as well.

Adam Cole of the Undisputed Era had this to say about the news:

What a way to meet HBK…beating Drew senseless and winning the NXT Championship. Couldn’t ask for a better story folks #AdamColeBayBay https://t.co/yfyMnnJdU2

— Adam Cole (@AdamColePro) October 19, 2017

Tickets for this event are now on sale at NXTTickets.com.

Former WWE World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns took part in a conference call earlier this week with members of the international media to discuss a variety of topics. Reigns talked about a number of his fellow WWE Superstars, such as his longtime rival Braun Strowman, who are able to make what they do in and outside the ring their very own.

He proceeded to take a shot at The Young Bucks by saying “No offense to any of these guys, but we don’t need guys running around doing ‘too sweets.’ We don’t need guys acting like they’re DX from 20 years ago. We need original characters, guys who are [themselves].” One fan responded to this on Twitter by sending Reigns a part of his quote along with a recent DX photo shoot WWE Superstars did. Reigns responded by saying that The Shield already beat DX and they don’t need to celebrate them:

@WWERomanReigns "we don't need people running around here acting like DX from 20 years ago" ??? pic.twitter.com/yjQJMHz08M

— Obsolete 1995 (@Obsolete1995) October 14, 2017

Me and my boys beat the DX! No need to celebrate them. #TheRealestGeneration is what I celebrate and represent. https://t.co/fQpLu42ZnP

— Roman Reigns (@WWERomanReigns) October 14, 2017

The Singh Brothers are an integral part of Jinder Mahal’s WWE Championship reign, and although they’re currently heels on WWE TV, they previously worked as babyfaces in NXT as The Bollywood Boyz. They got their big break in WWE as competitors in the Cruiserweight Classic and were soon regulars on NXT and 205 Live.

Once brought up to the main roster they aligned themselves with Jinder Mahal and assisted him in capturing the WWE Championship from Randy Orton. The brothers recently appeared on WWE Superstar Chris Jericho’s podcast, Talk Is Jericho, to talk about their run in the professional wrestling world. Simir discussed some rather blunt advice that he and his brother received while working at the WWE Performance Center as The Bollywood Boyz:

“I think a big thing actually, we realized we needed to turn heel” Because the whole Bollywood Boyz thing was so babyface — so 1980’s. Me and Gurv [Sunil] were going back and forth and Shawn Michaels had just started at NXT and watched one of our PC Live matches and he pulled up aside and was like, ‘you guys need to go heel.’ He’s like, ‘if you’re gonna stay a babyface you’re dead in the water.”

Sunil then noted that Michaels compared what The Singh Brothers were trying to do was similar to what he did with Marty Jannetty, however, it worked back in the 90s – but not today:

“He said ‘I see what you guys are trying to do it was like what Marty (Jannetty) and I were doing back in the day. But it worked in the 90’s — it’s not gonna work in today’s wrestling”

You can check out The Singh Brother’s interview on Talk Is Jericho at this link here.

Roman Reigns is the highest rated Superstar in WWE 2K18

Roman Reigns is the highest rated wrestler in WWE 2K18. Reigns received a rating of 95 out of 100. Stone Cold Steve Austin is rated at 92, The Rock comes in at 93 and The Undertaker also got 93 as a rating.

John Cena and Brock Lesnar are also rated 93 in the game, Finn Balor (as Demon King) and Seth Rollins are at 92. AJ Styles is at 90, WWE Champion Jinder Mahal is rated 88 and Braun Strowman comes in at 88 as well.

WWE 2K18 releases on October 17th.

Road Dogg and Shawn Michaels take over NXT tapings

Triple H posted on Twitter earlier today that he was gutted to miss his first NXT taping ever. He added that he had the best team in the world doing it and wished them luck. Road Dogg responded and said that he and Shawn Michaels are holding the fort down.

Gutted to miss my first @WWENXT taping ever while in @WWEIndia but I have the best team in the world doing it…Have a hell of a show!

— Triple H (@TripleH) October 4, 2017

Don't worry, H, @ShawnMichaels and I are holding the fort down! @WWENXT @TripleH #OUDK pic.twitter.com/P3JJIhKtm0

— Brian G. James (@BrianRDJames) October 4, 2017

Triple H responded with the following:

SON OF A …. https://t.co/vjXEHe97wP

— Triple H (@TripleH) October 4, 2017

6-Man tag match announced for NXT in two weeks

A 6-man tag match has been announced for the October 18th episode of WWE NXT. The Undisputed Era (Adam Cole, Bobby Fish and Kyle O’Rielly) will face the NXT Tag Team Champions SAnitY (Eric Young, Killian Dain and Alexander Wolfe). This the first time The Undisputed Era has competed in a match together as a trio. Below is WWE’s announcement for the match:

Six-man mayhem: SAnitY fights The Undisputed ERA on Oct. 18

Katy, bar the door, because unadulterated mayhem is on its way to NXT.

The chaotic collective of SAnitY’s Eric Young, Alexander Wolfe & Killian Dain will battle The Undisputed ERA’s Adam Cole, Bobby Fish & Kyle O’Reilly in a massive Six-Man Tag Team Match on the Wednesday, Oct. 18, episode of NXT.

The match will feature The Undisputed ERA competing as a unit for the first time inside an NXT ring.

The warring factions have been at odds since The Undisputed ERA’s emergence at TakeOver: Brooklyn III, when Fish & O’Reilly ambushed Young & Wolfe after SAnitY dethroned The Authors of Pain to win the NXT Tag Team Titles.

Cole scored The Undisputed ERA’s first official victory against SAnitY by pinning Young in a singles match on the Sept. 27 episode of NXT. During that electrifying match, an all-out brawl erupted between Fish & O’Reilly and Wolfe & Dain at ringside.

Whether the squared circle will be able to contain the action remains to be seen. Don’t miss this colossal main event when it streams exclusively on WWE Network on Wednesday, Oct. 18, at 8/7 C.

Natalya wins the SmackDown Women’s Championship

Naomi defended her SmackDown Women’s Championship against Natalya during WWE SummerSlam.

Natalya slapped Naomi in the face to start off the match. Natalya then attacked Naomi in the corner and then slammed her to the mat. Naomi battled back and delivered a slap of her own to Natalya and Natalya rolled out of the ring. Naomi got on the ring apron and booted Natalya in the face. Naomi then connected with a Blockbuster off the ring apron.

The action returned to the ring and Natalya took control. Natalya stomped on Naomi in the corner and the referee was forced to break it up. Natalya then posed in the ring and then planted Naomi with a Suplex for a two count. Carmella and Ellsworth were shown watching the match backstage. Carmella was holding the MITB briefcase.

Naomi went for a roll up but Natalya kicked out at two and then leveled Naomi with a Clothesline. Naomi connected with a couple of kicks but Natalya responded by slamming her to the mat with a two count. Natalya then shouted “shut up” at the crowd who wasn’t making any noise at all. Natalya locked in the Abdominal Stretch in the middle of the ring.

Naomi battled out of the hold but Natalya once again connected with a Clothesline for a two count. Naomi hit a Russian Leg Sweep off the second rope and both Superstars crashed to the mat. Both Superstars got back to their feet and traded punches. Naomi got the upper-hand and connected with a spin kick. Naomi then slammed Natalya’s head into the mat for a two count.

Naomi hit a series of kicks but Natalya grabbed her leg and Naomi did a split in the ring. Natalya then hit a Dropkick to Naomi’s face for a two count. Naomi hung up Natalya between the ropes and then booted her in the back. Naomi then went to the ring apron and connected with a Leg Drop for a two count.

Natalya bounced Naomi’s head off the second turnbuckle but Naomi rolled Natalya up for a two count. Naomi went to apply a submission hold but Natalya blocked it and locked in the Sharpshooter in the middle of the ring. Naomi tried to get to the bottom rope but Natalya dragged her back to the center of the ring. Naomi was able to roll through and Natalya fell into the turnbuckle head-first.

Naomi went for the split-legged Moonsault but Natalya got her knees up. Natalya once again locked in the Sharpshooter for the submission victory.

The #Sharpshooter… it's a @SummerSlam tradition! @NatbyNature @BretHart #SummerSlam pic.twitter.com/BJfaqKzONj

— WWE SummerSlam (@SummerSlam) August 20, 2017

Congratulations to the NEWWWW #SDLive #WomensChampion @NatbyNature! #SummerSlam pic.twitter.com/f7kUj2WRdV

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) August 20, 2017

Shawn Michaels appears as Colonel Sanders during SummerSlam Kickoff Show

Right before WWE SummerSlam went on the air, Shawn Michaels came down to the ring as Colonel Sanders as you can see in the video below.

There's a new @KFC Colonel in town… and his name is @ShawnMichaels! #SummerSlam pic.twitter.com/TdMEMQLuU6

— WWE (@WWE) August 20, 2017

WWE Hall Of Famer Shawn Michaels recently did an interview with The Rack to promote his new movie, Pure Country: Pure Heart. “The Heartbreak Kid” discussed going on the road with NXT, which up and comers have caught his eye, what takeaways he has gotten from working with younger talent, and what sets NXT apart. Check out the highlights here below:

Traveling on the road with NXT:

“I actually am, for the first time in a long time. You know, I’ve been working some at the WWE Performance Center with NXT and I hadn’t been out on the road with them and we come back and watch a lot of film and things of that nature but, in my opinion, you can only get so much from film and sometimes you have to bet there live to see it and take it all in, I believe, to help these guys out and if that is indeed my job, which I believe it is, so I wanted to go on the road and be a part of it and experience it and sort of get a feel for the vibe that is NXT. I believe it to be different for WWE or quite honestly anything else out there. The audience is different and exciting and a phenomenal brand and I just wanted to get out here and see what it was like to take it on the road. It’s a quick one which is all I can really do anymore or have the patience to do, but it’s going to be exciting and I’m looking forward to three fun nights with the NXT crew.

“That is all on the NXT starts and Triple H, Matt Bloom, and Sara Amato and all the people who have put in so much time and energy into those individuals, but to me it’s the NXT Superstars; they are a young, hungry group and I agree with you that it is a different vibe. I believe it is everything pure about the wrestling business; you know, every one of them has a dream to go to the WWE and one day headline WrestleMania but this is an unbelievable fun process with them and you can feel it. To your point, when you’re out there, you can feel it and it is a palatable vibe out there and the excitement and energy that is unlike anything else out there. And I have to give all the credit to all those NXT stars out there who are the ones pulling that off, because it is their energy and their hard work that puts all those shows together and makes them as great as they are.”

Which up and coming stars have caught his eye:

“Yeah, there are a number of them. I do my best to try and keep from, I don’t know, naming too many names and stuff like that. One, because you’re afraid you’re going to leave somebody out or put undue pressure of someone but I think there is a great deal of talent there from a number of guys and young ladies, to be perfectly honest.

“And that is what I think is so exciting, is there is a whole other generation that I think is going to take the wrestling business into the coming years and that is exciting to see, it really is. I guess I’m different from a lot of older guys; I think they want it to stay the same or what it was like in there day and I’m very excited about what the future has for these young men and women of NXT and the future of the WWE.”

What takeaway he has received from working with younger talent and what sets NXT apart:

“I guess the commitment and the closeness; the greatest thing I enjoy about the Performance Center and NXT is the culture, it is absolutely nothing like the wrestling business that I was in and I don’t think it’s like anything like what you call wrestling business when you get into the business aspect of it. I think that’s what I enjoy most. They are all close, they are a team and it is a very close-knit group and it is very nice to see and wonderful to be a part of.

“For me, someone who is coming in from the outside and from a different generation, it’s something I’m very conscious of not wanting to disrupt and only trying to be a part of if I can add to it because it is so unbelievably special and I think it needs to be protected for as long as they can. So I have to say the culture, the mood and the overall positive energy and relationship everyone ha; it’s phenomenal and very hard to find.”

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

– WWE uploaded a video of Cruiserweight Champion Neville after RAW where he reacts to the six-man cruiserweight tag match on Monday’s show. Neville says Tozawa’s victory doesn’t matter because he’s still the king. Tozawa and Daivari face off on this week’s 205 Live to determine who will face Neville for the championship at SummerSlam.

– Roman Reigns went on Twitter after Monday’s RAW to comment on his Triple Threat victory over Samoa Joe and Braun Strowman. Those three me will all face Brock Lesnar in a Fatal Four Way on August 20th for the Universal Title at SummerSlam.

I don't like to list my resume…
That's why I go to the ring and explain through my actions. #SummerSlam #NeverLied #B2R

— Roman Reigns (@WWERomanReigns) August 1, 2017

– WWE aired a clip from WWE Studios’ new film Pure Country, Pure Heart on RAW, and shared it on Twitter after the show. The film stars Shawn Michaels and country music legend Willie Nelson, and is released Tuesday, August 1st.

Don't miss @WWE Hall of Famer @ShawnMichaels in @WWEStudios' #PureCountryPureHeart, available TOMORROW! #RAW pic.twitter.com/Au8A96XAB9

— WWE (@WWE) August 1, 2017

WWE Hall Of Famer and multiple time WWE Champion Shawn Michaels recently did an interview with Kayla Braxton on WWE’s Facebook page as he currently travels with NXT. “The Heartbreak Kid” was asked how NXT crowds are different from WWE crowds, who has stood out to him in NXT thus far, and what it has been like working at the WWE Performance Center. You can check out what he had to say here below:

Difference between NXT and WWE crowds:

“One is very different than the other; it’s a little bit more of a rebellious, rowdy, and very sort of protective group, as well. I think they understand that all of the NXT Stars that they’re seeing are eventually going to the main roster, but right now, they’re theirs to enjoy. I think [the NXT crowd] also understand they are going to be a big part of what takes these NXT Stars to the next level.”

Who has stood out to him in NXT:

“From the guys that are a little bit more experienced: Johnny Gargano, Roderick Strong, I very much enjoy them to guys like Patrick Clark – Velveteen Dream – I certainly see a lot there. But then you go a little further down with less experienced, Cezar Bononi and Adrian Jaoude, so I think there’s real potential there. My goodness, with the girls of course you’ve got Ember [Moon] and Asuka [who] are phenomenal. Nikki Cross, but then, again, there are some sleepers out there, Sage [Beckett] and Abbey Laith, I think there’s so much depth here.”

What it has been like working at the WWE Performance Center:

“Matt Bloom [Head Trainer] and Sara Amato [Trainer/Producer] are the ones – honestly, in my opinion – who deserve all of the credit. They are the ones that set the vibe, set the mood, set the culture for that place each and every day and it is absolutely, easily, the best environment I have ever been in, in my entire life. It is phenomenal, it really is, and that isn’t blowing smoke or kissing anybody’s backside because those two make it that way.”

You can watch Michales’ full interview with Kayla Braxton by clicking this link here.

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

Shawn Michaels recently spoke to Channel Guide Magazine to promote his film Pure Country: Pure Heart. During the interview, Michaels also discussed his role at the WWE Performance Center and the future of wrestling. Below are some highlights from the interview:

His role at the WWE Performance Center:

“I would clearly define my role if my role was clearly defined and knew what it was, but I don’t. That has sort t have been the way I have been most of my life, most of my career. I just hang around so often that people just eventually are too afraid to tell me to leave,” Michaels said.

“So, I’ve been hanging around for quite some time at the Performance Center. It’s one thing to sit there and watch things back on film and do your best to help people here and there or address certain things. I think eventually you have to get out there and get a feel for everything that is going on. That was one of the reasons why I wanted to come out on the road. I wanted to get to know the talent a lot better, but also have a better understanding of what they’re doing and how the process goes. I also wanted to get a feel for the crowds. The crowds are different from town to town, city to city and state to state. So, I feel the better I know the better I can help and be an asset to not only the talent, but Matt [Bloom], Sara [Amato] and Hunter [Paul Levesque] who have worked so hard to make the Performance Center and NXT a successful product.”

The future of wrestling:

“I leave the opinions about the wrestling business where it has been, where it’s going and where it needs to go or doesn’t to the podcast guys and reporters. I enjoy the future. I’m not a good old-timer. I’m excited about the future,” Michaels.

“I’m excited about to see if there is anything I can do to help bring that along in a way that is conducive to the wrestling business and WWE and WWE fans in general. It’s going to continue. Their opinions are always going to be all over the place. They always have been. I think the only difference is I think maybe people hear about it more now than we did. That’s the wonderful thing about technology.

I’m not the all-knowing or seeing on the wrestling business. Quite honestly, I always think that what I think really doesn’t mean much. I’ve never bought a wrestling ticket in my life or haven’t bought one since I was 12 years old. So, it’s certainly not me they are looking to bring in the building. I just don’t like to into all the opinions of it. The wrestling business is a wonderful line of work. It has been great to me and my family over the last 30 years. I’m now getting to be in WWE movies and things of that nature. I’m just all about helping this next generation try to achieve their dreams like I was blessed to have the opportunity to do.”

Superstars he likes in NXT:

“I like Roddy Strong, Aleister Black, Johnny Gargano, Velveteen Dream, Heavy Machinery, Authors of Pain, Sanity, they are all just a number of young talent out there. Ember Moon and Asuka as well. There are just numerous people out there,” Michaels said. “The wrestling business is ripe with a great deal of young, up-and-coming talent. To me, that is exciting. I got way too positive of an outlook to jump into all the other stuff.”

You can read the entire interview by clicking here.

Former WWE Champion AJ Styles recently joined The Sam Roberts Wrestling podcast to talk about his journey in the WWE thus far. During the show, “The Phenomenal One” discussed the rumors that he would be facing Shawn Michaels at the Royal Rumble earlier this year, the notion that John Cena ‘buries talent’, and what he did that got himself over with Vince McMahon. Here’s what he had to say:

Rumored Royal Rumble match against Shawn Michaels:

“I’m just glad someone asked him because I actually pitched it, ‘can we… has anyone asked Shawn? No? Can we? Can someone just ask him? All he can say is ‘no’.’ And truthfully, I respect him so much as a man because when he said he retired he actually did it. He didn’t come back. And even I said, ‘well, money talks, doesn’t it?’ Not to Shawn Michaels. He’s a man of his word and at the end of the day all you have is your word.”

Styles added, “it really doesn’t do anything for anybody, so he was absolutely 100% correct and made the right decision.”

Learning a lot from John Cena and the notion that he ‘buries talent’:

“I learned a lot from him. It’s just the little things that he does.” Styles continued, “people aren’t going to like this, but I’m telling you, I’d say 90% of the things I’ve learned that I felt helped me tremendously is John Cena. The guy… there’s a reason he was able to stay on for more than 10 years and done what he has done in his career.”

“I don’t think that’s true (Cena burying talent). It’s up to you, if you leave after your storyline with John Cena to carry on what you’ve been called. Exactly, exactly. That’s all it is and if you continue to do that, you’ll find a way to get to whatever spot it is.”

What he did to get over with Vince McMahon:

“Well, I think it was the MizTV where I beat him up. I think that’s when he goes, ‘whoa, okay…’ It’s one of those things where you’ve just got to… I don’t know… I think Vince kind of likes a tough guy to some degree. And I’m not saying I’m Brock Lesnar, but I fought all my life.”

H/T Wrestling Inc. for the transcriptions

The Rock responds to Mike Kanellis

SmackDown Superstar Mike Kanellis posted on Instagram a photo of himself preparing for his PPV match against Sami Zayn tomorrow night at WWE Battleground. Kanellis noted that he was wearing The Rock’s T-shirt and The Rock responded to him wish some advice.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BW2zHJjlKzW/

Kill it brother! Be safe on that crazy road and keep having fun. ???? @WWE https://t.co/XylurqUtjk

— Dwayne Johnson (@TheRock) July 22, 2017

Triple H wishes Shawn Michaels happy birthday

Shawn Michaels turned 52 years-old today and Triple H wished him happy birthday on Twitter:

Happy birthday buddy…
Then. Now. Forever. @ShawnMichaels pic.twitter.com/PmbpRByuo0

— Triple H (@TripleH) July 22, 2017

WWE’s Top 10 Shocking Confessions

WWE uploaded a new Top 10 video today. The list focused on the most shocking confessions or revelations in the history of WWE. The list includes RAW GM Kurt Angle revealing that Jason Jordan is his son, Big Cass being revealed as Enzo’s attacker and Shane McMahon purchasing WCW and showing up on Nitro. You can check out the entire list in the video below.

Following the success of The Resurrection of Gavin Stone, WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels has landed another role in a WWE Studios film. Michaels, actress Laura Bell and country music legend Willie Nelson will star in “Pure Country: Pure Heart,” a straight-to-DVD release.

Pure Country: Pure Heart is the music-driven story of teenage sisters Ada and Piper. Upon discovering a letter about their late father, a Marine who died in Iraq, they leave rural Tennessee and hit the road secretly in search of the truth about the man they never knew. As they uncover his past as a budding country music star, the sisters find their own voice, beginning their journey as singers/songwriters.

Here’s the official trailer for Pure Country: Pure Heart:

Here’s the official press release announcing the project:

WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels co-stars with Willie Nelson in WWE Studios’ “Pure Country: Pure Heart”

BURBANK, Calif – Kick up your boots and get ready to sing your heart out as Warner Bros. Home Entertainment and WWE Studios bring you a touching, tune-filled, All-American tale of family in “Pure Country: Pure Heart” on Aug. 1, 2017. Featuring country music icon Willie Nelson, Tony Award nominee Laura Bell Bundy, WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels in a feature-length film filled with both new and popular songs, “Pure Country: Pure Heart” is priced to own on DVD, Blu-ray Combo Pack and Digital HD. The DVD and Blu-ray Combo Pack are available exclusively at Walmart.

Directed by Damon Santostefano (“Another Cinderella Story,” “Three To Tango”) from a script by New York Times best-selling author Holly Goldberg Sloan (“Angels in the Outfield,” “Made in America”), “Pure Country: Pure Heart” is the newest installment of the adored “Pure Country” franchise and also stars Kaitlyn Bausch (“One Life To Live”), Cozi Zuehlsdorff (“Dolphin Tale,” “Dolphin Tale 2”), Amanda Detmer (“Final Destination”), Dara Sisterhen (‘Dog with a Blog,” “Switched At Birth”), Mathew Barnes (“Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk”), Myra Turley (“Flags of Our Fathers”), famed singer-songwriter Ivan Neville and Ronny Cox (“Deliverance,” “Total Recall,” “Robocop”). “Pure Country: Pure Heart” is produced by Hunt Lowry (“Pure Country 2: The Gift,” “A Time to Kill,” “A Walk to Remember”) and executive produced by President of WWE Studios, Michael Luisi “(Fighting with My Family,” “Oculus,” “The Call”).

The DVD, Blu-ray and Digital HD release of “Pure Country: Pure Heart” will include the all-new original movie, as well as exciting enhanced content featuring a music video with Willie Nelson, interviews with the cast, behind-the-scenes featurettes and more.

“Pure Country: Pure Heart” is the moving, music-driven tale of teenage sisters Ada and Piper. Upon discovering a letter about their late father, a Marine who died in Iraq, they leave rural Tennessee and hit the road secretly in search of the truth about the man they never knew. As they uncover his past as a budding country music star, the sisters find their own voice, beginning their journey as singers/songwriters.

Filmed on location in the heart of country music capitols New Orleans and Nashville, “Pure Country: Pure Heart” boasts 23 songs, curated by music supervisors Frankie Pine (Nashville, Mozart in the Jungle) and Mandi Collier (Nashville, Secrets and Lies), including 16 new songs making their debut in the film.

Among the featured songs are Willie Nelson’s beloved “We Don’t Run,” Laura Bell Bundy’s all-new “Grass Ain’t Greener,” the Ronny Cox penned-and-performed “Silver City,” and a bevy of songs from award-winning country-music songwriters – including Trent Dabbs & Jabe Beyer, Jon Kenzie, Maren Morris and Dallas Davidson & Natalia Starzuynski. The songs are performed in the film by Bausch, Zuehlsdorff, Barnes, Bundy, Cox and Nelson. WaterTower Music will release the “Pure Country: Pure Heart” soundtrack on Aug. 1.

“‘Pure Country’ is a wonderful, heartwarming franchise with proven success,” said Mary Ellen Thomas, Vice President Family & Animation Marketing. “‘Pure Country: Pure Heart’ pulls you in with its music and engaging story about love, loss and dreams.”

This is the third film in the “Pure Country” series. Other titles include “Pure Country” and “Pure Country 2: The Gift.”

BONUS FEATURES

* Music Video: “We Don’t Run”
* Pure Country: You’ve Got to Have Heart
* Me Oh My-Meemaw’s PecanPie!

Immediately following tonight’s WWE RAW, a new episode of Table For 3 premieres on the WWE Network. The featured diners on this installment will be Shawn Michaels, AJ Styles and Kevin Nash.

In this teaser video posted on WWE’s Youtube channel, Styles, Michaels and Nash discuss how speculation of The Phenomenal One and HBK’s dream match began.

WrestlingDVDNetwork.com is reporting that the WWE project Sean Mooney was filming with Charly Caruso is a DVD titled “WWE Unreleased & Unseen: 1986-1995.” The project synopsis reads:

“WWE unlocks the vault and brings you never-before-seen matches from 1986-1995. Check out these unreleased hidden gems featuring some of the greatest Superstars in WWE history.”

WWE Unreleased & Unseen is scheduled to be released in August in the United States and in September in the UK.

WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels says he recently declined an offer to lace up the boots one more time and face AJ Styles at WrestleMania 33.

HBK was the guest on the latest Sam Roberts Wrestling Podcast and revealed WWE approached him with an opportunity to face the Phenomenal One at the company’s biggest show of the year. Michaels is enjoying retirement, which is great for him but unfortunate for the rest of us.

“I could’ve had that match, they did not have an opponent for AJ at Wrestlemania”, Michaels said.

He went on to say that he knows fans would have loved the match, but the timing wasn’t right and it will be relegated to a dream match that never came to be.

“I wish that man was here 10 years ago man, I really do.”

Styles will face Shane McMahon next Sunday at WrestleMania in a match that’s sure to feature some show-stealing high spots.

You can listen to the full episode here:

WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels was recently interviewed by Sports Illustrated and spoke about his experience working with Kurt Angle. The two squared off at WrestleMania 21 in a ‘dream match’ that is still talked about to this day. Ahead of Angle’s WWE Hall of Fame Induction in less than two weeks, Michaels reveals Angle was the only opponent he ever faced that he felt he had to specifically train for.

“There was never even a possibility that someone could have more gas in the tank than me, but Kurt was different,” Michaels admitted. “I confessed to myself that Kurt was that guy, and I knew that match had to live up to extremely high standards, so I made sure I prepared extra. Kurt was the one guy I wondered if he could actually blow me up, so I had to work to make sure that didn’t happen.”

• Video: Kurt Angle Reunites With Vince McMahon After 11 Years

Michaels says he and Kurt Angle were on different brands at the time and their matches were usually ‘special attraction’ affairs, since they didn’t work long programs together. He says no matter what Kurt Angle did ‘in other places’ over the past decade, he’s a WWE guy and his best matches were on the WWE stage.

“I’m so amazed that he could go from this gold-winning Olympian and transition so flawlessly into our line of work. Nothing was out of the ballpark for him. He could wrestle, he could be silly, he could out-wrestle guys. Kurt adapted to the world of the WWE unlike anybody with his unbelievably legitimate credentials behind him.”

Head over to SI.com to read the full interview.

This week’s episode of Monday Night Raw kicked off with Brock Lesnar and Paul Heyman in the ring. The crowd chanted “Suplex City” as Lesnar laughed in the ring. Heyman stated that Wrestlemania is the night that Brock Lesnar causes the announcers to scream “down goes Goldberg!”. A “Goldberg” chant started to echo throughout the arena. Half of the crowd tried to drown them out by booing. Heyman announced that Goldberg was not there this evening and the crowd cheered. Heyman told the fans chanting “Goldberg” to shut the hell up. Heyman bragged about Lesnar hitting an F-5 on Goldberg last week on Raw. Heyman claimed that when Lesnar wins the Universal Champion at Wrestlemania 33, it will go down as the greatest championship comeback in sports entertainment history.

"On April 2nd 2017, announcers will be screaming DOWN GOES @GOLDBERG!!!" – @HeymanHustle @BrockLesnar #BrockvsGoldberg #WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/g9T2NYd07R

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley were shown backstage. Stephanie McMahon instructed Foley to scour the Raw roster and find someone to fire. Stephanie stated that Foley makes things too personal and needs to think more like a business person. Foley agreed to do it but looked nervous.

Per @StephMcMahon, @RealMickFoley must FIRE a #RAW Superstar before the end of the night! Who will it be?!? pic.twitter.com/cK61n3ZoCN

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Sasha Banks vs Dana Brooke

Bayley and Charlotte were ringside for the match. Dana Brooke started off in control of the match and beatdown Sasha in the corner. Charlotte was yelling out orders to Dana Brooke from beside the ring. Sasha fought back and hit the Double Knees for a two count. Banks then rolled up Dana Brooke for an easy victory. Corey Graves tried to claim that Sasha cheated by grabbing the tights.

After the match, Charlotte grabbed a microphone and scolded Dana Brooke. Charlotte called Dana a disgrace and stated that she doesn’t deserve to be by her side. Charlotte said that she is finally get rid of Dana Brooke. Dana then attacked Charlotte and beat her down in the ring. Charlotte rolled out of the ring but Dana followed her and beat her down some more.  The crowd then started to chant “Dana” as Charlotte retreated backstage.

Winner: Sasha Banks

Looks like @DanaBrookeWWE has NO INTEREST in riding @MsCharlotteWWE's "coat tails" to @WrestleMania! #RAW pic.twitter.com/W9pwhKDNJw

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Akira Tozawa & TJ Perkins vs Brian Kendrick & Tony Nese

Tozawa knocked Kendrick out of the ring. Tony Nese went to check on his tag team partner but was interrupted by Perkins who hit him with a Hurricanrana outside the ring. Raw went to a commercial break with Tozawa and Perkins in control of the match. When Raw returned, Kendrick had Tozawa in a Chinlock and Neville was shown watching the match backstage. Tozawa went to tag in Perkins but Kendrick dragged TJ off the ring apron. Nese then went for a cover in the ring but Tozawa kicked out at two. Tozawa finally tagged in Perkins and he planted Nese with a springboard DDT but Kendrick broke up the pinfall. Tozawa hit Perkins off the ring apron. Tony Nese then shoved Tozawa into Perkins and Tozawa fell out of the ring. Nese then rolled up Perkins and grabbed his tights. The referee didn’t notice and Kendrick and Perkins picked up the victory.

Winners: Brian Kendrick & Tony Nese

Meanwhile, #CruiserweightChampion @WWENeville seems to be watching this match VERY closely backstage… #RAW #205Live pic.twitter.com/aNhGciEFiS

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) March 14, 2017

Reaction: The first hour of Raw was good. Paul Heyman cut a great promo to kick off the show. The most surprising moment of the night was that the crowd actually chanted “Dana!” after she attacked Charlotte. Dana Brooke has struggled mightily on the main roster. Many of her matches have contained several botches. Having said that, I’m glad that she got that reaction simply because the Women’s division on Raw is incredibly thin. Bayley, Sasha Banks and Charlotte are the only ones that get any reaction from the crowd. Nia Jax should be in that conversation but the fact is that she has just not connected with the WWE Universe in any capacity. It could just be a one night thing, but Dana Brooke did get a reaction from the crowd. Hopefully she continues to improve in the ring and is able to provide the Women’s division on Raw another viable talent. There has been zero evidence on the main roster that she can provide that, but hey at least the crowd responded to her tonight.

Kevin Owens & Samoa Joe vs Sami Zayn & Chris Jericho

Owens cut a promo in the ring before the match. He had a spotlight on him and the crowd started to chant “Y2J”. Owens showed footage from last month where attacked Jericho at the Festival of Friendship. Owens claimed that Jericho never considered him his best friend either. Owens said that Jericho was just trying to get close to his Universal Championship. Owens claimed that he simply stabbed Jericho in the back before Jericho turned on him. Owens bragged about outsmarting Chris Jericho and said that Goldberg wouldn’t have won at Fastlane if it weren’t for Jericho interfering. Owens said that who needs best friends when you’ve got a destroyer and Samoa Joe came down to the ring.

"All @IAmJericho was doing was get close to me, so he can get close to MY… MY #UniversalTitle! – @FightOwensFight #RAW pic.twitter.com/NqjwCVuAoB

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Jericho and Samoa Joe started off the match. Jericho connected with a Dropkick off the second rope for a one count. Sami Zayn was then tagged in and connected with a couple of punches. Joe fought back and landed a kick to the side of Zayn’s head. Owens was then tagged in and he stomped on Zayn several times and taunted the crowd. Owens then kicked Jericho in the head and he fell off the ring apron. Zayn knocked both Joe and Owens out of the ring and then Moonsaulted onto both of them. Zayn grabbed his knee after the move, but powered through and rolled Joe back in the ring. Owens followed them and targeted Zayn’s knee.

Owens and Joe then beat the hell out of Zayn in the ring. The referee then disqualified Owens and Joe because they wouldn’t stop. Joe applied the Coquina Clutch and Owens stomped on Sami’s chest. Jericho got back in the ring and knocked Joe out of the ring. Jericho then went for the Walls of Jericho but Joe got back in the ring and broke it up. Joe then held up Jericho and Owens punched him in the face several times. Owens then hit a Pop-Up Powerbomb on Jericho.

Winners via DQ: Sami Zayn & Chris Jericho

CLEARLY @FightOwensFight and @IAmJericho do NOT want to wait until @WrestleMania! #RAW @SamoaJoe pic.twitter.com/EkgYNMrOxL

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Stephanie McMahon and Mick Foley were once again shown backstage. Stephanie McMahon suggested that Foley fire Sami Zayn. Nia Jax interrupted and said that she should be in the Women’s Championship match at Wrestlemania. Stephanie McMahon then made a match between Bayley and Nia Jax later tonight.

The New Day were backstage and were promoting the new Jetson movie with WWE Superstars. The Big Show showed up to talk about the film but was quickly interrupted by Titus O’Neil. Titus shoved the Big Show because he was not a part of the movie.

Reaction: The New Day hold the record for longest tag team title reign. There was a point where I thought that they were one of the most entertaining aspects of Raw. Now, they are consistently thrown in crappy segments to sell ice cream or DVDs. They went from being the best tag team on Raw to a group of salesmen. Woods, Big E and Kingston are incredibly talented. I have no idea why they are in this role, but hopefully after Wrestlemania 33 they will return to performing in the ring.

Welcome to the FIRST edition of #NewDayTalks with their first special guest @WWETheBigShow! #RAW @XavierWoodsPhD @TrueKofi @WWEBigE pic.twitter.com/btRSUkj9T1

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

#1 Contenders Match: Cesaro & Sheamus vs Enzo & Cass

Cesaro hit Big E with a Dropkick right when the match started. Big E shrugged it off and planted Cesaro with a slam. Cesaro fought back and tagged in Sheamus. Cass and Sheamus traded punches in the corner. Cass slammed Sheamus to the mat and tagged in Enzo. When Raw returned, Enzo was predictably stuck in the ring and was getting his ass kicked. Sheamus applied a Chinlock as Enzo desperately reached for a tag. Enzo got out of the Chinlock and Sheamus tagged in Cesaro. Enzo tagged in Big Cass and he leveled Cesaro with a couple of shoulder blocks. Cass then hit a Fall Away Slam and followed it up with a Splash onto Cesaro in the corner. Cesaro tagged in Sheamus but he was hit with a big boot that knocked him out of the ring. Gallows and Anderson then appeared and attacked Sheamus and Big Cass outside the ring. Gallows and Anderson then proceeded to beatdown Cesaro and Enzo. Gallows and Anderson hit the Magic Killer on Cesaro and posed in the ring.

Wait a minute?!?!? What is @LukeGallowsWWE and @KarlAndersonWWE doing out here?!?! #1Contender #RAW @WWESheamus @BigCassWWE pic.twitter.com/Gu9kykkPHr

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Foley then confronted Gallows and Anderson backstage. Foley announced that Gallows and Anderson will defend the Raw Tag Team Championships against Enzo & Cass and Sheamus & Cesaro at Wrestlemania 33.

Roman Reigns vs Jinder Mahal

Reigns was beating Jinder down in the corner and the gong from The Undertaker’s theme music went off. Jinder used the distraction and kneed Reigns in the face. Jinder went for a pinfall but Reigns kicked out at two. Reigns connected with a Superman Punch and then pulled Jinder up and hit another one for the victory.

After the match, Roman Reigns grabbed a microphone and called out The Undertaker. Shawn Michaels came down to the ring for his annual “do you know what you are getting yourself into?” speech about The Undertaker at Wrestlemania. Michaels stated that Reigns was already distracted and that The Undertaker is going to eat him alive at Wrestlemania 33. Reigns said that it should be The Undertaker that should be worried about him. Michaels claimed that he was on Roman’s side. Reigns said that The Undertaker retired Michaels and that Reigns is the guy that is going to retire The Undertaker. Reigns left the ring but was attacked by Braun Strowman on the entrance ramp. The crowd chanted “thank you Strowman” as the segment ended.

Reaction: I enjoyed this segment and the attitude of Roman Reigns during the promo. It will be interesting to see where Braun Strowman fits in here because as of now he isn’t in a match at Wrestlemania. I guess it is possible that he gets added to the Reigns and The Undertaker match if the WWE wants to take some of the stress off of The Undertaker for health reasons. It is also possible that Reigns beats the hell out of Strowman for a couple of weeks and then Braun is in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at Wrestlemania 33.

Winner: Roman Reigns

"Come #WrestleMania, The #Undertaker is going to EAT YOU ALIVE!" – @ShawnMichaels @WWERomanReigns #RAW pic.twitter.com/L3KluHHX5A

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Foley and Stephanie McMahon were once again shown backstage. Foley still hadn’t made up his mind about who he will fire tonight. Stephanie McMahon informed Foley that he had one hour to make a decision. If he didn’t fire someone within the hour, Stephanie would make the decision and Foley won’t like who she chooses to fire.

The clock is ticking for @RealMickFoley… He has ONE HOUR to FIRE a member of the #RAW roster! @StephMcMahon pic.twitter.com/lMU2cGLmYA

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Austin Aries vs Ariya Daivari

Daivari controlled the beginning of the match and launched Aries out of the ring. Aries hit the ring apron on his way down. The match returned to the ring and Daivari leveled Aries with a Clothesline. Aries battled back and connected with a discus elbow for the victory.

Winner: Austin Aries

Just #GREAT! @AustinAries is ready to bring A-Double Level athleticism to #RAW! #205Live pic.twitter.com/Nlgi5DexiR

— WWE Universe (@WWEUniverse) March 14, 2017

Big Show vs Titus O’Neil

Big Show hit Titus with three Chokeslams to win the match. It was announced that Big Show will be a part of the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at Wrestlemania. I guess his rumored match with Shaq will not be happening.

Winner: Big Show

Not one… not two… but THREE Chokeslams for @TitusONeilWWE!

@WWETheBigShow #RAW pic.twitter.com/4bAmynGAmz

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Bayley and Sasha Banks had a conversation backstage. Sasha told Bayley to ignore all the haters. Bayley didn’t know what Sasha was talking about. Sasha Banks described the haters as people that don’t view Bayley as championship material. Sasha then said that Bayley can defeat Nia Jax and then focus on Wrestlemania. Banks and Sasha then shook hands and Sasha walked away. Bayley had a confused look on her face as Raw went to a commercial break.

Chris Jericho was shown backstage icing his neck. Jericho announced that there will be a special edition of the Highlight Reel next week and his guest will be “the real” Kevin Owens. Jericho then called the interviewer Tom Phillips even though it wasn’t him. Jericho then added Mike Rome to the list for not being Tom Phillips.

"On a very special edition of the #HighlightReel, my guest is going to be…the REAL Kevin Owens…" – @IAmJericho on next week's #RAW! pic.twitter.com/eCXMSULfX5

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

Bayley vs Nia Jax

Nia controlled the match early and threw Bayley out of the ring. Bayley fought back and Raw went to a commercial break with Nia frustrated outside the ring. When Raw returned, Nia Jax was back in control of the match. Bayley battled back and tied Nia up in the ropes. Bayley connected with a Dropkick to the backside of Nia and she fell out of the ring. Back in the ring, Nia launched Bayley into the turnbuckle. Bayley went for a Crossbody off the second rope but Nia caught her. Bayley escaped and went for a DDT but Nia threw her across the ring. Nia then beatdown Bayley in the corner and the referee disqualified her because Nia wouldn’t stop. Nia then hung Bayley up on the turnbuckle and went for a Splash but the referee got in the way. Nia then dragged Bayley out of the ring and slammed her into the barricade.

Winner via DQ: Bayley

.@NiaJaxWWE is CLEARLY not happy that she won't be in the #RAW #WomensChampionship Match at #WrestleMania! @itsBayleyWWE pic.twitter.com/IbEYkaFpq0

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

It was announced that Braun Strowman will face Roman Reigns next week on Monday Night Raw.

Stephanie McMahon came down to the ring and the “CM Punk!” chants started immediately. Raw GM Mick Foley then came down to the ring to announce which WWE Superstar he has chosen to be fired. Stephanie asked who it was and Foley stated that at first he couldn’t think of one Superstar that deserved to be fired. Foley then claimed that he had came up with a name and thanked Stephanie McMahon for giving him this oppurtunity to make Raw better. Foley then said the name he came up with was Stephanie McMahon and the crowd erupted into a “yes!” chant. Foley said that Stephanie was the only one on the roster that deserved to go because she doesn’t treat WWE Superstars like jokes rather than human beings.

Foley said he was looking into Stephanie’s eyes and all he sees is a really good liar and a really bad person. Foley accused Stephanie of colluding with her husband Triple H to get what they want in the WWE. Triple H then came down to the ring with a smirk on his face. Triple H called Foley a “fun little nostalgia act”. Triple H said that he worked so hard on creating the future so that he doesn’t have to look at “pathetic has-beens” like Foley. The crowd started to chant “CM Punk” once again. Foley said that the Raw Superstars envy him because he doesn’t have to pretend to like Triple H. Triple H then threatened to fire Dewey Foley and crush Noelle Foley’s dream of being a WWE Superstar. Triple H then told Foley to get the hell out of the ring and do whatever Stephanie says from now on.

Foley pulled out Mr. Socko and applied the Mandible Claw to Triple H. Stephanie then hit Foley with a low-blow and Mick fell to the mat. Triple H then approached Foley and Seth Rollins’ music hit. Rollins limped down the entrance ramp with his crutch and Foley rolled out of the ring. Rollins dropped the crutch and ran into the ring. Rollins and Triple H traded punches in the ring. Rollins then connected with a kick and knocked Triple H out of the ring. Triple H then got back into the ring with Rollins’ crutch. Triple H hit Rollins in the knee with the crutch and the crutch bent. Triple H then applied a Knee Bar hold to Rollins and Seth screamed in agony. Raw went off the air after Triple H hit him in the knee one more time with the crutch.

Not so fast, @TripleH!!!!

Bad knee and all, @WWERollins is HERE on #RAW!!!!! pic.twitter.com/5P1Wj5PRTo

— WWE (@WWE) March 14, 2017

https://twitter.com/WWE/status/841487806530707457

Reaction: It looks like the Triple H and Rollins match is back on at Wrestlemana 33. That is a good thing because that is one of the only matches on the card that I’m really looking forward to. I’m assuming that Mick Foley is also done as Raw GM after he attacked Triple H. This could mean the return of The Authority with Kevin Owens and Samoa Joe being the ones that do Triple H’s dirty work. I find it odd that the WWE is making Nia Jax look like a monster, yet she is not a part of the Raw Women’s Championship match at Wrestlemania 33. Overall, Monday Night Raw was decent this week. There is at least things that happened on the show that are worth discussing in the weeks leading up to Wrestlemania.

What did you think of this week’s episode of Monday Night Raw? Let us know in the comments below.