2024 has been a monumental year for WWE, offering fans a series of Premium Live Events (PLEs) that have captivated audiences worldwide. From shocking title changes to iconic rivalries and unforgettable matches, WWE’s creative direction under Triple H has delivered some of the most compelling content in recent memory.

This year also saw WWE’s continued global expansion, hosting events in Australia, Germany, and France. These international crowds brought unparalleled energy, elevating each event’s atmosphere to unforgettable levels.

Marquee events like WrestleMania XL, Royal Rumble, and SummerSlam provided historic moments and emotional climaxes, while smaller PLEs like Bash in Berlin and Backlash France offered surprising highlights. However, not every show reached its potential—some suffered from predictable outcomes, lackluster storylines, or uneven match quality.

In this ranking, we’ll evaluate all 12 WWE PLEs of 2024, from Survivor Series to WrestleMania XL, diving into their highs, lows, and what made each event truly stand out—or miss the mark. Here is our definitive ranking of every WWE PLE of 2024, from worst to best.

Schedule of Upcoming WWE PLE/PPV Events

12. Crown Jewel

While WWE’s Saudi Arabia shows have steadily improved in quality, Crown Jewel 2024 failed to leave a lasting impression. Matches like Cody Rhodes vs. Gunther delivered in-ring quality, but the event lacked a defining moment to make it stand out. The absence of significant storyline progression or jaw-dropping surprises made this event feel like a stopgap rather than a must-watch show.

11. King and Queen of the Ring

The return of the King and Queen of the Ring tournament brought back a classic WWE concept, with Gunther and Nia Jax emerging as winners. However, the event fell flat outside the tournament matches, with an undercard that lacked energy and stakes. While the prestige of the tournament added some gravitas, it wasn’t enough to elevate this event above mediocrity.

10. Survivor Series: WarGames

The annual Survivor Series promised a thrilling night of WarGames matches, but inconsistent booking dragged it down. The women’s WarGames match suffered from disjointed storytelling, and while the men’s match brought excitement and hard-hitting action, it couldn’t salvage the rest of the event. With predictable outcomes and filler matches, this installment of Survivor Series felt like a missed opportunity.

9. Bad Blood

Hyped as the return of a classic PLE, Bad Blood 2024 delivered mixed results. The Hell in a Cell match between CM Punk and Drew McIntyre was an instant classic, showcasing brutal storytelling and physicality. Unfortunately, the rest of the card lacked depth, with few matches leaving a lasting impact. The overall lack of balance made this event feel underwhelming despite its marquee attraction.

8. Elimination Chamber: Perth

WWE’s foray into Perth, Australia, brought a solid Elimination Chamber event, with standout performances from Drew McIntyre and Becky Lynch, who triumphed in their respective Chamber matches. While the matches themselves were entertaining, the predictability of the outcomes dampened the overall excitement. The event succeeded in showcasing top-tier talent but fell short in delivering major surprises or fresh storylines.

7. Bash in Berlin

Bash in Berlin benefited from the electric energy of the German crowd, but the in-ring action was a mixed bag. Gunther vs. Randy Orton delivered a hard-hitting showcase, and CM Punk vs. Drew McIntyre’s strap match brought grit and intensity. However, the rest of the card felt average, lacking the kind of marquee moments needed to elevate the event higher on this list.

6. Clash at the Castle: Scotland

Set against the passionate backdrop of a Scottish crowd, Clash at the Castle provided a memorable night of action. Highlights included Cody Rhodes battling AJ Styles in an emotionally charged I Quit match and CM Punk’s interference in Drew McIntyre’s World Heavyweight Title match, which created one of the night’s most dramatic moments. While the event had its lulls, the atmosphere and key matchups made it stand out.

5. Royal Rumble

The Royal Rumble once again proved why it’s a fan favorite, with Cody Rhodes and Bayley emerging as the respective Rumble match winners. Surprise appearances from Jade Cargill and Jordynne Grace injected fresh excitement into the event. While some of the non-Rumble matches didn’t reach the same level of buzz, the unpredictability and stakes of the Rumble bouts ensured this PLE started the year on a high note.

4. Money in the Bank

The ladder matches stole the show at Money in the Bank 2024, with Drew McIntyre and Tiffany Stratton claiming the coveted briefcases. Elsewhere, Sami Zayn’s defense against Bron Breakker added intensity to the evening. However, the main event failed to meet expectations, preventing this otherwise thrilling event from breaking into the top three.

3. SummerSlam

SummerSlam 2024 was a blockbuster event, delivering major twists and unforgettable moments. Dominik Mysterio’s shocking betrayal of Rhea Ripley was a storyline highlight, while Roman Reigns’ long-awaited return injected drama into the proceedings. Cody Rhodes successfully defending his title capped off a night filled with standout matches and surprises.

2. Backlash France

International shows can sometimes feel like filler, but Backlash 2024 in Lyon defied expectations. Cody Rhodes and AJ Styles put on a wrestling clinic, while Bianca Belair and Jade Cargill captured the WWE Women’s Tag Team Titles in a high-energy bout. The raucous French crowd enhanced the atmosphere, making this a standout event that rivaled WWE’s biggest spectacles.

1. WrestleMania 40

The grandest stage of them all, WrestleMania 40, delivered everything fans could hope for over two nights. Cody Rhodes finally “finished the story” by dethroning Roman Reigns in an emotionally charged main event. Stellar women’s matches and shocking title changes made this WrestleMania feel historic. As always, the pageantry and star power of WWE’s flagship event ensured its place at the top of the rankings.

The landscape of professional wrestling has changed significantly in recent years. Fans no longer need to stay up until midnight to see the conclusion of a WWE pay-per-view. Premium live events have become more concise, and now they are scheduled to start earlier. WWE will maintain the earlier start time for its events, per PWInsider. This will include NXT Heatwave, SummerSlam, and The Bash at Berlin. The current WWE PLE schedule reflects this decision. 

In March, there were discussions about potentially shifting domestic PPVs to an earlier start time, but a final decision had not been made at that time.
Traditionally, WWE has aired its pre-shows at 7 p.m. ET, with the main card starting at 8 p.m. ET. This timing was standard until a few years ago when the start time for the main card was moved to 8 p.m. ET.

CEO Nick Khan recently confirmed WWE’s goal to host its five major PLEs (WrestleMania, SummerSlam, Royal Rumble, Survivor Series, and Money in the Bank) within the United States, while looking to expand their international touring with the PLE’s. Since overseas shows typically begin much earlier for American audiences, the adjustment to earlier start times for these events should not represent a significant change.

Upcoming Schedule

WWE has several stadium shows and international PLE’s in the coming months

Below is the current lineup of events on WWE’s calendar for the remainder of 2024. For the remainder of the year, check out our 2024 WWE/NXTPLE Schedule.

• WWE King and Queen of the Ring (May 25, 2024)
  • Venue: Jeddah Superdome
  • City: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
• WWE NXT Battleground (June 9, 2024)
  • Venue: UFC Apex
  • City: Las Vegas, Nevada
• WWE Clash at the Castle (June 15, 2024)
  • Venue: OVO Hydro
  • City: Glasgow, Scotland
• WWE Money in the Bank (July 6, 2024)
  • Venue: Scotiabank Arena
  • City: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• WWE NXT Heatwave (July 7, 2024)
  • Venue: Scotiabank Arena
  • City: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• WWE SummerSlam (August 3, 2024)
  • Venue: Cleveland Browns Stadium
  • City: Cleveland, Ohio
• WWE Bash in Berlin (August 31, 2024)
  • Venue: Mercedes-Benz Arena
  • City: Berlin, Germany

The Undertaker had the same reaction to The Rock’s wrestling debut as everyone else.

The Rock was originally built in WWE as Rocky Maivia. He was pushed by the company from the start due to his lineage and his first match came at Survivor Series 1996 from Madison Square Garden.

The Dead Man recalled his reaction to The Great One’s debut during the latest episode of his Six Feet Under podcast. Taker thought that the Hollywood star was doomed from the start and he was going to get a couple of years in WWE only because of his family’s legacy:

“I’ll never forget, I remember him coming out in the Garden. He had the funny colored thing on and whole deal. I was like “This kid ain’t gonna make it. He ain’t got a chance. He’s dead in the water.’ I thought him being a legacy would give him a couple years that he probably wasn’t going to deserve.”

While the fans rejected Rock’s original gimmick in WWE, he still managed to turn things around. The generational star slowly won over the fans after turning heel and he later became one of the faces of The Attitude Era.

‘He Is The American Dream’: The Undertaker

Speaking about his success, Undertaker put over the People’s Champion for always staying motivated even during bad times. He mentioned how the Rock managed to think outside the box and find a unique persona for himself, something that is lacking in the current generation of wrestlers:

“He is the American dream. He wanted to play football, that fell through. There are a lot of times when something like that happens, people cave. Then they never rebound. Even when I thought he sucked, he was always motivated. He wasn’t like having a pity party.

He was picking people’s brain. He was around the guys that knew what the hell was going on and picking their brain. Trying to figure out what it was that he was going to bring to the table. I wish more people had that. I’m just talking about the wrestling side of it for now.

Because a lot of times guys are very…right now I feel like there’s a lot of guys that are very cookie cutter. They’re looking at the formula that, what they think is going to lead them to success. And they’re bringing nothing new to the table. They’re staying within the box. That was what was so great about Bray Wyatt. He thought outside of the box. Guys like Rock with his promos. It was just always ‘never be content’ and ‘always try and be better.'”

You can check out the latest episode of Undertaker’s podcast below:

If you use any quotes from the article please credit SEScoops with an H/t for transcription

CM Punk returned to WWE after nearly a decade away from the company. That Survivor Series return brought Chicago fans to a frenzy, but he wasn’t the only return that night.

Looking Back At CM Punk’s WWE Survivor Series Return

Randy Orton needed back fusion surgery in 2022, a fact that cost him 18 months of in-ring competition. The Apex Predator also returned at Survivor Series, where he helped his team win the WarGames match. Then CM Punk returned to steal the spotlight. 

While speaking to Rewind, Recap, Relive, Heath Slater discussed CM Punk’s return to WWE. He saw it as a very cool moment, but he also feels as though it overshadowed Randy Orton’s return to the ring. 

“I mean it’s a thing in the wrestling world with the fans and the popularity of it. I mean, it’s a cool moment. Come on, man, it’s been a decade pretty much. It’s a cool moment.”

“Do I wish that they would have done it at WarGames? No, because I feel that Randy should have had a great moment, too.”

“Because Randy is amazing. He’s one of those Hall of Famers, icons, legends. If you sculpt out what a Superstar should be, it’s Randy. I feel like it overshadowed Randy’s moment. But, it was a cool moment, of course.” 

“The whole backstage drama BS drama, it’s there. We all know it’s there. How will it be handled now? Who knows? I guess we’ll see. He can burn bridges, but he can re-build them. Who knows? Who the hell knows? For the fans and the people who watch WWE, cool moment.” 

Heath Slater went on to say that CM Punk “always stuck with himself a lot,” even as leader of the new Nexus faction. Still, Slater had good things to say about CM Punk’s return to WWE being a cool moment. He might have decided against running that return right after Randy Orton’s first match in 18 months.

CM Punk’s WWE Return So Far

CM Punk’s return to WWE has been a financially successful decision. He is selling a truckload of merchandise, his name is trending, and Warner Bros Discovery may have re-entered the discussion for RAW’s next television deal just because of his return.

The jury is still out on whether CM Punk can avoid those backstage issues that he’s known for. As it stands right now, CM Punk’s homecoming is going just fine. 

This is not the kind of story you expect to write as a pro wrestling journalist, but it happened. WWE’s partnership with Slim Jim has resulted in grand theft auto.

Slim Jim recently reported the theft of its custom Nissan Z, known as “Fast Meat.” This is the same car with WWE’s branding that appeared at Survivor Series.

The Stolen Slim Jim Car

The huge asset in the ongoing partnership with WWE is now gone. The car, while making stops in Chicago for the Survivor Series event and en route to L.A. for a video shoot, is nowhere to be seen. It was last seen in California.

Slim Jim has launched the #FindFastMeat campaign, calling on its fan base, the Long Boi Gang, to help spread awareness and encouraging anyone with information to submit tips to the Los Angeles Police Department at this link.

While some may think this is a clever PR move, the press release that the company sent out seemed very serious.

Whole expressing surprise at the unforeseen demand for their custom car, Ashley Spade, VP & General Manager, Snacks at Conagra Brands, emphasized the brand’s cooperation with authorities to address the situation. She urged the community to report any sightings of “Fast Meat” to the LAPD.

The tricked-out ride, boasting features like a fiery exterior, custom yellow leather interior, LED lighting, and exclusive Slim Jim amenities, was crafted by one of Hollywood’s iconic custom auto shops. So, this is a car that would absolutely attract attention, leaving us to wonder who stole it.

WWE’s History With Slim Jim

Slim Jim and WWE’s partnership has nostalgia written on it at this point. It’s hard to see one of those meaty snacks in any supermarket without imagining Randy Savage jumping through the ceiling for a 30-second promo on protein snacks.

Now, Bianca Belair and LA Knight have taken the helm of those Slim Jim commercials. They still open up those ads with Macho Man’s iconic voiceover. Sadly, the Slim Jim Nissan X “Fast Meat” car is now likely a part of some car collector’s very rare collection.

We’re hoping for “Fast Meat’s” speedy return, and encourage anyone with any information to contact the LAPD with information. It is going to be very hard to hide a car like that in one piece. Let’s hope it doesn’t snap into a chop shop.

Bret Hart famously left WWE in 1997 after an incredibly controversial exit. That departure still lives on in pro wrestling fandom, but it seems that the incident is water under the bridge for everyone involved. 

The Montreal Screw-Job

The Montreal Screwjob went down during the 1997 Survivor Series match between Bret Hart and Shawn Michaels. In the closing moments of the bout, there was a controversial and unexpected turn of events. Despite Bret Hart not intending to drop the WWE Championship in his home country of Canada, Vince McMahon, the owner, and operator of WWE at the time, instructed the referee, Earl Hebner, to ring the bell and declare Shawn Michaels the winner. 

This decision, which was made without Bret Hart’s knowledge, stirred immense controversy and changed the landscape of professional wrestling. It became one of the most talked-about incidents in the industry’s history. Not only did it inspire the legendary “Bret Screwed Bret” promo before memes existed, but it also lives on in pro wrestling history.

The Aftermath of the Montreal Screw-Job

During an interview with Steve Fall, Earl Hebner opened up about his current relationship with Bret Hart. It seems that the two have mended their bridge after that controversial Survivor Series main event in 1997.

“I have a merch shirt that says ‘Damn right I did.’ And a lot of people want me to say, Can you write on it ‘I screwed Bret?’ I go, ‘No. I can’t do that.’ A while back, maybe three or four years ago, I would do it but Bret and I made up. And before my brother passed, we were at a house show, or indie show and he was there and he called us into the ring and he put us over like big time. So now Bret calls me now and then and I’ll call him and we got a good relationship back and I’m not gonna screw it up by writing something over a dumb ass shirt. It’s gonna destroy our friendship.

Earl Hebner was questioned about any concerns he had before reuniting with Bret and the possibility of Bret being upset with him.

“For a long time it honestly it bothered me. It was bad for me, you know, cuz I carried it with me for a lot of years. We met one time an airport, and I wanted to talk to him and he said, ‘I don’t want to talk to you.’ … I said, ‘can I talk to you for a minute?” He goes, ‘I don’t want to talk.’ I said okay, so I let it go and that was it. And as time went on, you know, it finally worked out well. We got to see each other [and] communicate.” 

Working With Randy Savage

Earl Hebner went on to speak about some talent who weren’t so easy to work with. One of those people was “Macho Man” Randy Savage, because he was such a perfectionist, and Savage wrote everything out in his matches move-by-move.

“Well, from the old referees and today’s referees and today’s matches back then in there, it’s a world of difference. It’s not the same. It’s just it’s like old school and new school. You know and the old school you had to work and be smart because they never gave you everything. You know a lot of times back then I’d go in there and I go, ‘What’s the finish?’ They said, ‘just count.’ Okay. We did know the finish a lot of times. I mean 99 percent of the time. We knew the finish Some of the old guys just come through and tell you what it was. They said watch the match and count.”

“Macho Man. I mean when it comes to WrestleMania, he gives you a sack of papers that thick of the whole match way before it was ever gonna go on. I mean two weeks before WrestleMania and then he comes back and I’ll go, ‘damn, this is a joke here.’ But that’s how he was, he was a perfectionist.”

Steve Fall went on to note how Diamond Dallas Page wrote his matches out move by move before bell time. This caused Earl Hebner to reply, “Oh Randy was the same way about like TVs and house shows, you know same thing…If you screwed up he’d go, ‘What the hell’s going on here?'”

Earl Hebner is full of stories, and he was a part of pro wrestling history along the way. It’s also nice to see that he was able to mend some of those relationships that he tarnished along the way.

Earl Hebner’s book titled “Earl Hebner: The Official Story” can be purchased at this link.

The first-ever WarGames match for the male WWE stars on the main roster is in the history books as the men’s version of the match was memorable and saw The Bloodline come out victorious.

WWE held the match at the Survivor Series event with the expected main event seeing The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, The Usos, Sami Zayn, & Solo Sikoa) vs. The Brawling Brutes (Drew McIntyre, Sheamus, Butch, and Ridge Holland & Kevin Owens).

The match opened with Jey and Butch before Holland got into the ring. Zayn was the next one in as it was a way for Reigns to test the trust he has for Zayn. Butch with a spring board moonsault to take out Jey and Zayn. McIntyre and Jimmy were next in. Owens got into the ring with a chair. Owens powerslamed Jimmy through a table. The final three competitors to enter the bout were Solo, Sheamus, and Reigns. 

Reigns speared Ridge through a table. Solo sent McIntyre through a table. Owens with a stunner to Solo for 2. Owens with a stunner to Reigns for 2 as Zayn stopped the referee from counting to three. Zayn hit a low blow to Owens and acted like he regretted it before he hit a big boot to Owens before Jey hit a splash to Owens for the win.  Jey and Zayn hugged it out after the match. 

WHY SAMI WHY?! 😢 #SurvivorSeries pic.twitter.com/nmfB8QxMI9

— WWE on TNT Sports (@wweontnt) November 27, 2022

.@SamiZayn saved @WWERomanReigns inside #WarGames!#SurvivorSeries pic.twitter.com/5e1Ag69GtW

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

#TheBloodline is #WarGames ready!#SurvivorSeries pic.twitter.com/hBhydlZx7M

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

And here we go!

Jey @WWEUsos & Butch begin the #WarGames Match at #SurvivorSeries. But who will be next to enter the legendary structure? pic.twitter.com/3Or0QOOP0e

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

👀#SurvivorSeries #WarGames pic.twitter.com/ltEQOQPerx

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

Let the #WarGames begin!#SurvivorSeries pic.twitter.com/zHkLgY7Uiu

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

The last Men’s WarGames match to be held before this night was last December at the NXT WarGames event featuring Team 2.0 (Bron Breakker, Carmelo Hayes, Grayson Waller, and Tony D’Angelo) going over Team Black & Gold (Tommaso Ciampa, Johnny Gargano, Pete Dunne, and LA Knight).

Ronda Rousey regained the WWE SmackDown Women’s Championship last month at Extreme Rules and put her title on the line at Survivor Series.

Shotzi Blackheart earned a shot at the SmackDown Women’s Championship when she won a Six-Pack Challenge. This is match was Blackheart’s first match for a singles title in WWE. Prior to tonight’s match, Blackheart dedicated the match to her late father.

Last night on SmackDown, Rousey’s best friend, Shayna Baszler took out Raquel Rodriguez. Rodriguez was not cleared to be at ringside because she’s out with a broken elbow. During the kickoff show, Rousey promised to snap Blackheart’s ankle.

Ronda Rousey Gets Help From Baszler

Rousey started off the match in control, but Blackheart quickly got in offense. She was battling the “Queen of Spades” throughout the short match as well. While fighting off Baszler, Blackheart flipped Rousey over the barricade into the crowd. She sent Baszler over too. They were in the laps of two fans when Blackheart did a crossbody and took them all out.

What a dive from @ShotziWWE into the WWE Universe at #SurvivorSeries!!! pic.twitter.com/F7Sw11UsHR

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

Rousey put Blackheart in the Piper’s Pit and into an arm bar to make her opponent tap. She did not, in fact, snap Blackheart’s ankle.

• Team Belair Wins Women’s WarGames Match at WWE Survivor Series

WWE Survivor Series WarGames 2022 aired live tonight from the TD Garden in Boston, MA. The Bloodline battled The Brawling Brutes, Drew McIntyre, and Kevin Owens in a WarGames match in the main event.

• 8 Best Moments From WWE Survivor Series WarGames 2022

WWE Survivor Series 2022 Results

• Bianca Belair, Becky Lynch, Asuka, Alexa Bliss, Mia Yim def. Damage CTRL, Rhea Ripley, Nikki Cross in the Women’s WarGames Match
• AJ Styles def. Finn Balor
• Ronda Rousey def. Shotzi via submission to retain the SmackDown Women’s Championship
• Austin Theory def. Seth Rollins & Bobby Lashley to become the new United States Champion
• The Bloodline def. The Brawling Brutes, Drew McIntyre, and Kevin Owens in the men’s WarGames match

Here are the takeaways from WWE Survivor Series WarGames 2022:

Bianca Belair’s Team Won the Women’s WarGames match

Bianca Belair, Becky Lynch, Asuka, Alexa Bliss, and Mia Yim faced Bayley, IYO SKY, Dakota Kai, Nikki Cross, and Rhea Ripely in the Women’s WarGames match to begin Survivor Series 2022. Bianca Belair and Dakota Kai started off the match.

The RAW Women’s Champion connected with a Dropkick but Dakota shrugged if off. Kai stood in between the two rings and tried to avoid Belair. Bianca caught her and slammed her to the canvas before launching her into the turnbuckle. Belair hit a shoulder tackle and lifted Kai up in a Fireman’s Carry.

Kai escaped by pulling on Bianca’s hair but it backfired as The EST whipped her into the steel cage. Bianca followed it up with a Backbreaker. Dakota sent Belair into the steel cage and booted the champ in the face a few times before posing in the corner.

Bianca elbowed Kai in the face and followed it up with a vertical Suplex. Iyo Sky entered the match and leveled Belair with a Dropkick. Damage CTRL had the advantage for the next few minutes. Iyo and Kai trapped Belair between the rings and Sky connected with a Spear through the ropes. Sky connected with an incredible springboard Dropkick that sent The EST flying across the ring.

Asuka entered the match and hit Dakota with a German Suplex. The Empress of Tomorrow and Iyo Sky stare-down as the crowd cheered. Sky connected with an Arm Drag but Asuka responded with a Hip Attack. The Empress hit a knee to the face and a Shining Wizard in the middle of the ring.

Belair got up and launched Dakota into the steel cage as Asuka connected with a Dropkick off the top turnbuckle on Sky. Asuka and Belair posed for the crowd before Bianca planted Dakota with a Suplex. Nikki Cross entered the match next and immediately grabbed a kendo stick from under the ring.

Cross slammed the steel cage door on Asuka’s face as she kept throwing garbage can lids into the ring. The crowd chanted “we want tables!” but Nikki ignored their pleas. Cross bashed Bianca with a trash can lid and followed it up with a Tornado DDT on the champion.

Nikki hit a Body Slam on Asuka and started smacking people with her jacket. Cross licked the cage like a lunatic. Alexa Bliss sprinted to the ring and Dropkicked a trash can lid into Dakota’s face. Bliss and Cross traded strikes in the ring. Alexa hit a Dropkick on her former tag team partner as Asuka hit Iyo with a Running Bulldog.

Belair ripped the kendo stick away from Cross and broke it in half. Nikki climbed to the top of the cage as Dakota and Iyo beat Belair down with kendo sticks. Cross laughed on the top of the cage before taking everyone out with a Crossbody.

Bayley entered the match and pulled a ladder out from under the ring. The Role Model brought another ladder into the ring as the crowd chanted “we want tables!” once again. Bayley grabbed a table and the crowd popped as she slid it into the ring. Bayley hit a Sunset Flip Powerbomb on Belair in the corner of the ring before Damage CTRL pinned Bianca against the cage with a table.

IYO hit on a Moonsault on Alexa Bliss and Damage CTRL posed in the ring as the crowd booed. Kai delivered a Senton to Asuka as the clock counted down. Mia Yim entered the match next and brought some more weapons into the ring.

Mia launched a trash can and Dakota while she was in midair and bounced Iyo’s face off another one. Yim launched Dakota into the steel cage and started booting her in the face. Cross jumped on Mia’s back and applied a Sleeper Hold. Yim escaped and hit a diving Crossbody through the ropes and onto Bayley in the other ring.

Everyone battled on the turnbuckles and was brought down with four Superplexes. Rhea Ripley then entered the match and hit Asuka with a Dropkick. Ripley delivered a knee to Belair’s face and slammed Bliss into the cage. Ripley hit Belair with a German Suplex and caught Alexa in midair. Ripley planted Bliss with a Suplex and hurled her into the cage.

Nikki Cross bounced around on the ropes as Iyo hit a running Dropkick on Asuka. Damage CTRL, Rhea, and Nikki dominated as the clock ticked down until Becky Lynch entered the match last. Becky ran to the ring and beat Damage CTRL down one by one.

Kai missed with a trash can lid and Becky slammed it over her head. Lynch raked Iyo’s face across the cage before unloading some strikes. Lynch ripped a trash can away from Nikki and put it over Sky’s head. Lynch connected with a Leg Drop off the 2nd rope as the crowd cheered. Lynch made her way towards Bayley and started talking trash.

The Man and The Role Model traded punches in the middle of the ring. Lynch got the better of the exchange and knocked Bayley down. Rhea Ripley got in Becky’s face and delivered a headbutt. Rhea went for Riptide but Becky escaped. Bayley distracted Becky and Rhea then hit the Riptide but Asuka broke up the cover.

Lynch planted Ripley with a DDT but turned around into a forearm to the face from Bayley. Bayley got Becky in the Tree of Woe in the corner and stomped her down to the mat. Bayley connected with the Rose Plant on the steel in between the rings but the Empress broke up the cover once again.

Everyone battled in the corner for a giant Tower of Doom spot. Belair set up for a Powerbomb but Nikki hit her in the ribs with a kendo stick. Nikki then delivered a Neckbreaker to Alexa Bliss. Bayley and Bianca had a rough-looking Powerbomb spot as Iyo climbed to the top of the cage. Sky Moonsaulted onto Belair and Mia Yim below and everyone was down again.

Nikki Cross busted out some handcuffs and tried to cuff Alexa to the cage. Bliss escaped and connected with a slam on top of a trash can. Asuka hit Ripley with a Codebreaker and then a Hip Attack. Ripley shrugged it off and launched Asuka into the cage. Mia Yim unloaded some kicks on Ripley but Rhea sent her crashing through a ladder in the corner of the ring.

Bayley and Bianca then brawled with Damage CTRL. Becky hit Dakota with a Manhandle Slam. Belair planted Sky with the KOD and then the two set up a table in the corner of the ring. Lynch then climbed to the top of the cage as Bianca sent Bayley into the steel. Lynch hit a Leg Drop/ Senton off the top of the cage and onto Dakota and Iyo below. Becky pinned Dakota Kai to win the Women’s WarGames match.

???????#SurvivorSeries #WarGames pic.twitter.com/O0oBxlWOku

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

Team @BiancaBelairWWE wins inside #WarGames following a spectacular @BeckyLynchWWE leg drop off the top of the cage for the win!#SurvivorSeries pic.twitter.com/3HiGP3opha

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

Jey Uso Told Roman Reigns About Sami Zayn’s Lie Last Night on SmackDown

Jey Uso informed Roman Reigns that Sami Zayn lied to him last night at WWE SmackDown. Roman Reigns told Jey that he needs to go out there and do what he says tonight. Reigns added that he is going to look Sami Zayn in the eyes and he will know if he’s telling the truth and where his loyalties are. Roman told Jey to focus on tonight and gave him a fist bump. Roman then instructed Paul Heyman to bring him Sami Zayn.

"Wise man … get me Sami."@WWERomanReigns @HeymanHustle #SurvivorSeries pic.twitter.com/eTyxHc1L4j

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

AJ Styles def. Finn Balor

Finn Balor squared off against AJ Styles tonight in a singles match. Damian Priest, Dominik Mysterio, Luke Gallows, and Karl Anderson were ringside for the match. Styles controlled the match early and targeted Balor’s knee with his attack.

The Phenomenal One delivered a Dragon Screw and followed it up with a Backbreaker. AJ unloaded some strikes but Finn battled back. Balor connected with a Backbreaker of his own and went for the cover but Styles kicked out at a one count.

Balor got AJ in the Abdominal Stretch in the middle of the ring as the crowd got behind Styles. AJ broke free but Balor hit him with a shot to the locker back. Styles responded with a forearm to the face but Balor got him back in the Abdominal Stretch in the middle of the ring.

Dominik tripped up AJ and a brawl broke out between the Good Brothers and Judgment Day. Karl Anderson and Dominik battled through the crowd as the match continued in the ring. Finn connected with a Slingblade but Styles responded with an Enziguri. Styles followed it up with a Suplex into the turnbuckle for a near fall.

Balor battled back and mocked AJ as he unloaded a bunch of kicks. AJ popped up but Balor hit him with another Slingblade for a two count. Finn went for a Styles Clash on AJ but the Phenomenal One escaped. Both superstars traded Pele Kicks and fell to the canvas as the TD crowd applauded.

Finn hit Double Knees to AJ’s ribs and went for the cover but Styles managed to kick out at two and the match continued. AJ flipped off the middle turnbuckle into a reverse DDT for a two count. Balor hit a Dropkick and climbed to the top turnbuckle.

Finn went for the Coup de Grace but Styles got out of the way. AJ locked in the Calf Crusher in the middle of the ring but Balor broke the hold by slamming Styles’ head off the apron several times. AJ and Finn traded punches in the ring and then chops to the chest. Styles hit a boot to the face and followed it up with the Phenomenal Forearm for the pinfall victory.

AJ Styles defeats Finn Bálor at #SurvivorSeries Live Covarage on https://t.co/8UmJEneJNA #FinnBalor #AJStyles pic.twitter.com/5HilbZNZju

— SEScoops (@sescoops) November 27, 2022

Ronda Rousey Retained the SmackDown Women’s Championship

Ronda Rousey defended the SmackDown Women’s Championship against Shotzi tonight at WWE Survivor Series WarGames. Shotzi dominated the match early and hurled Ronda into the steel steps.

Shotzi leveled Shayna Baszler ringside and rolled Ronda into the ring. Shotzi hit a Russian Leg Sweep and climbed to the top rope. The challenger went for a Crossbody but Ronda countered into a Powerslam. Shotzi went for a Leg Drop but Ronda countered into an Ankle Lock. Shotzi escaped with an Enziguri but Rousey got her in another submission hold.

Rousey choked Shotzi against the ropes and went for a knee strike but the challenger dodged it. Shotzi slammed Ronda on the ring apron and then followed it up with a DDT that sent both superstars tumbling to the floor. Shotzi took out Shayna Baszler once again and dumped Rousey over the barricade. Shotzi climbed on top of the barricade and hit a Crossbody that knocked over a bunch of “fans” in the front row.

Back in the ring, Ronda hit Piper’s Pit for a near fall. Ronda lifted Shotzi up again and hit another Piper’s Pit before applying an Armbar for the submission victory. Ronda Rousey is still the SmackDown Women’s Champion.

What a dive from @ShotziWWE into the WWE Universe at #SurvivorSeries!!! pic.twitter.com/F7Sw11UsHR

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

Roman Reigns Met With Sami Zayn

Roman Reigns asked Sami Zayn if he was talking to Kevin Owens last night at WWE SmackDown. Sami admitted that he did and said that he lied to Jey Uso because The Usos had a big match last night. Zayn stated that he just listened to Kevin Owens and told Roman that KO suggested that he turn on The Bloodline before they turn on him.

Reigns told Sami that he understands that he used to be friends with Kevin Owens, but needs to know if Sami is with them or against them. Zayn stated that he is with The Bloodline and will not let Roman Reigns down any night. Roman stared at Sami for a bit in silence before standing up. The Tribal Chief told Sami to get up and smiled at him. Reigns shared a hug with Sami but had a mean look on his face as Sami was thanking him.

Hug it out, @WWERomanReigns & @SamiZayn!#SurvivorSeries #WarGames@HeymanHustle pic.twitter.com/DXOupfC6aO

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

Austin Theory Won the United States Championship

Seth Rollins defended the United States Championship against Austin Theory and Bobby Lashley in a Triple Threat match. Rollins Clotheslined Theory out of the ring and battled with Lashley to start off the action. Bobby sent Rollins to the apron and Theory tripped him up. Austin hurled Rollins into the barricade and stared at Lashley. Bobby chased him into the ring and Theory unloaded some punches.

Lashley lifted Theory up with ease and launched him into Rollins. Bobby planted Rollins with a slam and went for the cover but Theory pulled the official out of the ring (No DQ in a Triple Threat match).

Theory caught Rollins with a Clothesline as the action spilled out of the ring. Theory grabbed the steel steps and bashed Lashley in the face with them. Austin hit Rollins with the steps as well. Back in the ring, Theory connected with a Dropkick and went for the cover but Seth kicked out at two. Rollins battled back as the entire TD Garden sang his theme song.

Austin jumped on Bobby’s back for a Sleeper Hold but Lashley threw him over the top rope. Seth connected with a Pedigree on Bobby Lashley and went for the cover but the All Mighty powered out at two and the match continued. Theory threw Seth out of the ring and hit a Blockbuster on Lashley.

Theory got Lashley up for the A-Town Down but Bobby escaped. Lashley applied the Hurt Lock but Austin countered into a cover. Seth came out of nowhere with a Frog Splash and went for the cover but Lashley kicked out at two.

Bobby got both Rollins and Theory in the Hurt Lock at the same time. They both escaped and Rollins sent Lashley into the ring post before hitting Theory with a Superkick. Seth used Theory’s back as a platform and hit a Stomp on Lashley. Seth hit Theory with a Superplex and set up for the Falcon Arrow but Lashley hit Seth with a Spear. Austin fell on top of Seth Rollins and won the United States Championship.

AUSTIN THEORY WINS!#AndNew #USChampion @_Theory1!!!#SurvivorSeries pic.twitter.com/Gz94Tcu2Ol

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

Sami Zayn Proved His Worth to The Bloodline

Roman Reigns, Sami Zayn, Jimmy and Jey Uso, and Solo Sikoa battled Sheamus, Ridge Holland, Butch, Kevin Owens, and Drew McIntyre in the men’s WarGames match in the main event of WWE Survivor Series. Jey Uso and Butch started off the match.

Jey and Butch trash-talked for the first minute of the bout. Butch took Jey down to the canvas and started bending back his fingers. Ridge Holland entered the match next and beat Jey down some more. Jimmy was about to enter the match but Roman Reigns instructed Sami to go to the ring.

The Honorary Uce beat Ridge down and patted Jey on the back. Jey was pissed and shoved Sami away. Butch capitalized with a Senton and McIntyre entered the match next. Sami and Jey argued about who was going to face Drew. Sami and Jey charged at the same time but McIntyre fought them off. Drew launched Sami across the ring with a couple of Belly to Belly Throws and then delivered a Spinebuster to Jey.

McIntyre joked that he’s feeling pretty Ucey and continued to beat Sami and Jey down. Jimmy Uso entered the match and brought a table inside the ring. Jimmy brought a couple more tables into the ring and Jey started arguing with Zayn once again. Jey and Sami shoved each other as Roman Reigns looked on in disgust.

Kevin Owens entered the match with a steel chair and beat the hell out of The Usos with the chair. KO hit Jimmy with a DDT on the chair and then hit Jey with a Cannonball in the corner of the ring. Owens connected with a Swanton on Jey and threw a chair at Jimmy’s head. Kevin Owens put Jimmy through a table as the clock counted down.

Solo Sikoa entered the match for The Bloodline and marched to the ring. Sikoa launched Butch into the steel cage and followed it up with a Samoan Drop. Owens launched Solo into the cage and hit him with Superkicks but Sikoa wouldn’t go down. Sikoa hit KO with a Back Body Drop onto the steel.

Sheamus entered the match and took a look at Roman Reigns before making his way down the entrance ramp. Sami Zayn entered the match and connected with a bunch of Clotheslines. The Celtic Warrior with a Powerslam and took out The Usos with a double Clothesline.

Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns made his way to the ring as the crowd chanted his name. The bell rang and the match officially began with all 10 superstars in the ring. Roman hit a bunch of Superman Punches before the Brawling Brutes battled back. The Brawling Brutes, Sheamus and KO all delivered 25 Beats of the Bodhran on The Bloodline in between the two rings as the crowd cheered.

Sheamus leveled Roman Reigns with a knee to the face and fired up the crowd. Sheamus hit Solo with a Brogue Kick but Roman leveled the Celtic Warrior with a Spear. Roman went for the cover but Butch broke it up at two. Sami Zayn unloaded a ton of punches and shouted “that is the Tribal Chief! Do you understand who you are dealing with?!”.

Jey went for a Superkick but Butch ducked and Uso caught Sami. Jimmy went to check on Sami but Jey shoved him away as the crowd chanted “a**hole!” at Jey. The Usos hit Butch with the 1D but Ridge Holland broke up the cover. Reigns hit Ridge with a Spear through a table in the corner of the ring.

Sikoa planted Drew through a table with a Spinning Solo. KO hit Solo with a Stunner but Roman broke up the cover. Owens and Reigns stared at each other and started trash-talking. Reigns and Owens traded punches. Roman connected with the Superman Punch and went for a Spear but Owens countered with a Superkick. KO hit a Pop-Up Powerbomb and then a Stunner. Owens went for the cover but Sami Zayn prevented the official from counting to three.

The crowd chanted “Sami Uso!” as Owens and Zayn traded words. Roman grabbed Owen’s leg and Sami hit KO with a low blow as the crowd booed. Sami looked at Reigns and the Tribal Chief nodded. Sami hit Owens with the Helluva Kick and caught Kevin in his arms. Sami threw Owens down and instructed Jey to hit the Frog Splash. Jey hit Owens with the Frog Splash to win the WarGames match. Jey and Sami shared a hug as well and Zayn celebrated over Owens as Survivor Series WarGames went off the air.

Did @SamiZayn do the right thing?#SurvivorSeries #WarGames pic.twitter.com/UfgBNT6uFf

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

#TheBloodline rules inside #WarGames at #SurvivorSeries! pic.twitter.com/D63Dgy6mSu

— WWE (@WWE) November 27, 2022

Ronda Rousey will defend her SmackDown Women’s Championship against Shotzi tonight at WWE Survivor Series.

• WWE Survivor Series 2022 Preview

Shotzi earned the title match by winning a Six-Pack Challenge on a recent edition of SmackDown. Ronda Rousey has aligned with Shayna Baszler on the blue brand and the Queen of Spades brutally attacked Raquel Rodriguez last night on WWE SmackDown.

Raquel still showed up to be Shotzi’s partner in their tag team match against Ronda and Shayna, but wound up tapping out to an Armbar from the champion.

"OMG ? ? ? #SmackDown "
Video via Instagram (WWE)
Shayna Baszler & Ronda Rousey attack Raquel Rodriguez
? @QoSBaszler ?? @RondaRousey pic.twitter.com/Z9jSX4OjcZ

— ??? ?? (@RedDiamondPR) November 26, 2022

Ahead of her match against Ronda Rousey tonight at Survivor Series, Shotzi appeared on WWE’s The Bump and said she was dedicating the match tonight to her fathers.

It has been a really tough year and I’m finally feeling like I am finding myself again. And being in this position really proves that.

So I just have both my dads in mind this whole match. This is dedicated to them and this is everything that they have ever dreamed of.

Shotzi! Shotzi! Shotzi! ???@ShotziWWE gets emotional as she announces that her #SmackDown Women's Title Match TONIGHT at #SurvivorSeries is dedicated to her late father. #WWETheBump pic.twitter.com/AIokZGbYR9

— WWE (@WWE) November 26, 2022

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXiojMLwJ60

WWE Survivor Series WarGames 2022 Coverage

WWE Survivor Series airs live tonight from the TD Garden in Boston, MA. The card features a men’s and women’s WarGames match, two title matches, and a grudge match.

Here is the card for tonight’s show:

• Men’s WarGames Match: Sheamus, Ridge Holland, Butch, Drew McIntyre, and Kevin Owens vs. The Bloodline’s Roman Reigns, Jimmy and Jey Uso, Solo Sikoa, and Sami Zayn
• Women’s WarGames Match: Bianca Belair, Becky Lynch, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, and Mia Yim vs. Bayley, Dakota Kai, IYO Sky, Nikki Cross, and Rhea Ripley
• United States Championship Triple Threat match: Seth Rollins (c) vs. Bobby Lashley vs. Austin Theory
• SmackDown Women’s Championship: Ronda Rousey (c) vs. Shotzi
• Finn Balor vs. AJ Styles

Our live coverage will begin alongside WWE Survivor Series WarGames 2022 in the link below.

WWE Survivor Series WarGames 2022 Results, Takeaways: The Bloodline vs. The Brawling Brutes, New Champion

WWE Survivor Series takes place this Saturday from Boston, Massachusetts. This will be the 36th Survivor Series event for the company; it originated in 1987.

SEScoops correspondents Andrew Ravens, Robert Lentini, and Ryan Droste have assembled to provide our official WWE Survivor Series predictions.

• WWE Survivor Series Betting Odds

Men’s WarGames Match: The Brawling Brutes (Sheamus, Ridge Holland, Butch), Kevin Owens, and Drew McIntyre vs. The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Solo Sikoa, Sami Zayn)

Andrew Ravens: The Bloodline goes over. It’s so hard to bet against Roman Reigns in any match, including a WarGames match. This could be the match of the night and given the star power, it arguably should be and that be the bar. It will be interesting to see how limited Kevin Owens is in this match, given his injury, which could play into the finish. (Prediction: The Bloodline)

Robert Lentini: The Bloodline should win this match on paper, but I think something will go wrong for them this Saturday at Survivor Series. Jey Uso’s ego might get in the way, Sami Zayn may be the one that costs them after he guaranteed a victory, just something is going to go wrong for The Bloodline and cost them the match this Saturday night. (Prediction: The Brawling Brutes, Kevin Owens, and Drew McIntyre)

Ryan Droste: Given the booking of the last few years, how do you bet against The Bloodline? Obviously the key here is that Roman doesn’t have to take the pinfall, so I think WWE uses that to their advantage to give his team a rare loss. Spoiler alert: Roman Reigns isn’t taking the pinfall. (Prediction: The Brawling Brutes, Kevin Owens, and Drew McIntyre)

Consensus: Split

Women’s WarGames Match: Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Mia Yim, and TBA vs. Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky), Nikki Cross, and Rhea Ripley

Andrew Ravens: This is a real pick ’em here, but I’ll side with Team Belair based on the rumored fifth member of the babyface team and want to keep this person strong. This is going to be one of the best matches of the night and one I look forward to seeing. (Prediction: Team Belair)

Robert Lentini: Becky Lynch is rumored to be the fifth and final superstar on Bianca Belair’s squad. I was holding out hope for Sasha Banks as Survivor Series is in her hometown, but appears that The Man will come around again. Bianca Belair’s team gets the victory and perhaps a rivalry between Rhea Ripley and the RAW Women’s Champion begins following Survivor Series. (Prediction: Team Belair)

Ryan Droste: Yeah, the babyface team goes over here with the surprise member of the team putting them over the top. Becky Lynch would be great, Sasha would set the world on fire. The women will be out to prove something, and this could end up being very good. (Prediction: Team Belair)

Consensus: Team Belair

WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey vs. Shotzi

Andrew Ravens: There’s no way that Rousey loses the title here. Shotzi is a fresh challenger and for that, I can respect it, but no one takes her as a serious title contender. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

Robert Lentini: Ronda Rousey will retain against Shotzi in what should be a lopsided match. Shotzi will get in some offense but doesn’t stand a chance of winning this match. I’m expecting a return or something after this match to set up Ronda’s hopefully more interesting next feud. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

Ryan Droste: To quote one of my favorite Christmas movies, “If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn’t be more surprised than I am right now.” That would be my reaction to Shotzi pulling out an upset. It ain’t gonna happen. (Prediction: Ronda Rousey)

Consensus: Ronda Rousey

AJ Styles vs. Finn Balor

Andrew Ravens: Balor should get the win here, but this is just for them to have a classic match while holding off the eventual multiple-person match down the road, likely on an episode of Raw. Let Balor, a heel, get the win here, but the babyfaces go over in the end. (Prediction: Finn Balor)

Robert Lentini: The Judgment Day and The OC have been battling for weeks now. AJ Styles challenged Finn Balor to this match at Survivor Series because he wants to put an end to their rivalry once and for all. I don’t think that will be the case and Finn Balor will escape with a win after outside interference from Judgment Day. (Prediction: Finn Balor)

Ryan Droste: Feels like Balor will go over here. These two have been involved in a lot of tag team matches of late, but it’s been a really long time since they’ve had a singles match together — TLC 2017. That match was outstanding and there’s no reason to believe that this one won’t be another great one. (Prediction: Finn Balor)

Consensus: Finn Balor

WWE U.S. Champion Seth Rollins vs. Bobby Lashley vs. Austin Theory

Andrew Ravens: I’m siding with Rollins here, although there’s more to this story. WWE is really building up Theory and I can see him having another run as the United States Champion, but he’s going to have to wait a while. I see WWE saving a one-on-one match between these two at either the Royal Rumble or the Elimination Chamber. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)

Robert Lentini: Seth Rollins has made a lot of enemies on WWE Raw lately and has made life difficult on himself if he wants to have a long reign as United States Champion. Rollins wins by pinning Theory and Lashley will have a reason to demand another match. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)

Ryan Droste: I just don’t see Rollins dropping the U.S. title yet. I’d go with Rollins pinning Theory here to keep Lashley strong. (Prediction: Seth Rollins)

Consensus: Seth Rollins

• WWE Survivor Series WarGames Preview

WWE Survivor Series WarGames is the company’s next premium live event.

This year marks the 36th annual installment of Survivor Series. It was established in 1987, making it the second longest running yearly event in company history (behind only WrestleMania). This year’s event takes place in Boston, Massachusetts.

WWE Survivor Series WarGames Match Card

The following matches are confirmed for WWE Survivor Series WarGames 2022:

• Men’s WarGames Match: The Brawling Brutes (Sheamus, Ridge Holland, Butch), Kevin Owens, and Drew McIntyre vs. The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, Jimmy Uso, Solo Sikoa, Sami Zayn)
• Women’s WarGames Match: Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Mia Yim, and TBA vs. Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky), Nikki Cross, and Rhea Ripley
• WWE SmackDown Women’s Champion Ronda Rousey vs. Shotzi
• AJ Styles vs. Finn Balor
• WWE U.S. Champion Seth Rollins vs. Bobby Lashley vs. Austin Theory

Check Out: WWE Survivor Series Betting Odds

When is WWE Survivor Series WarGames?

WWE Survivor Series WarGames takes place Saturday, November 26th from Boston, MA at the TD Garden. The main card of this premium live event starts at 8pm ET / 5pm PT.

How to Watch

WWE Survivor Series WarGames streams live on Peacock in the United States and on the WWE Network internationally.

WWE announced on Monday that it’s holding a press conference immediately following their Survivor Series: WarGames Premium Live Event.

The conference will be posted to the WWE YouTube, Facebook, and TikTok pages following the conclusion of the event on Saturday, November 26.

Triple H Will Break It Down

“WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque and a collection of Superstars will help break down the night in Boston,” WWE’s website wrote. “Two WarGames Matches will be featured on a WWE Premium Live Event for the first time, as The Bloodline take on Team Brawling Brutes and Team Bianca square off with Team Damage CTRL.”

Typically, WWE has avoided post-show press conferences. Triple H and others have participated pre and post-show NXT media calls, but that’s about the extent.

Of course, AEW, since its inception, has offered post-pay per view media scrums, to various degrees of success. Obviously, the media scrum at AEW’s All Out pay per view had the world talking for month, due to the comments of CM Punk.

• 5 Things WWE Should Do With WarGames At Survivor Series

While it’s possible these press conferences will be treated more as a “serious” type of showcase, it’s also quite possible that they could be used to further storylines. Regardless, there are sure to be headlines coming out of both the event itself, and the press conference that follows it, so be sure to stick with SEScoops as we provide all the updates coming out of Survivor Series: Wargames.

WarGames returns at WWE’s upcoming Survivor Series premium live event. It will be the first time the infamous double steel cage match takes place at WWE’s fall classic.

There have been over a dozen WarGames matches since the match was first introduced back in 1987. The number of participants on each team, the intervals that wrestlers enter the match and other rules have varied. Below, we’ll lay out exactly what to expect from WarGames later this month.

There will be two WarGames matches at Survivor Series (Men’s and Women’s) on Saturday, November 26th. WWE has yet to announce the participants for the men’s match, although you can be sure The Bloodline will be involved.

The women’s WarGames match is nearly set. It will be Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, Mia Yim and one more TBD partner facing Damage CTRL (Bayley, Dakota Kai, and Iyo Sky), Nikki Cross and Rhea Ripley.

WarGames Rules Explained

Here are the official rules for the WarGames matches that will be taking place at WWE Survivor Series 2022:

• Two teams will be contained in separate cages with one member of each team starting the match.

• After five minutes, a member from the advantaged team will be released to enter the match.

• After a three-minute period, alternating members from each team will enter the match until all competitors are inside the cage.

• Once all the competitors have entered, WarGames officially begins.

• The only way to win the match is by pinfall or submission.

The Creation of WarGames

WarGames was created by the late “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes.

Here’s a video of Rhodes talking about the creation of The Match Beyond:

Triple H made major waves in September when he dropped the insight in an interview that WarGames would make its debut on the WWE main roster at Survivor Series this year with not just one, but two matches under that gimmick. It’s a controversial move, given the match type may be unfamiliar to WWE-only fans who didn’t keep an eye on NXT. By all indications, Vince McMahon, who has owned the WCW intellectual property since 2001, didn’t see value in promoting such a match himself.

Nonetheless, given the rumors Triple H always wanted to work a WarGames match in his heyday, and the way he promoted it when he was in charge of NXT, it only makes sense that he’d make it a reality for the main roster this November. But what do fans want to see out of WarGames?

WWE Should Stick To Conventional WarGames Rules

One of the tricky things about booking WarGames is that fans can be uncertain what to expect. WCW and its predecessors booked it in relatively straightforward fashion with four or five-person teams going against each other, alternating which team got to add new combatants at timed intervals before the match could only via submission or surrender.

WCW contorted these rules almost beyond recognition in its final years to the point the matches were only WarGames in name. From there, NXT itself started running WarGames matches with a three teams of three format. While the resulting match was well-received, it was nonetheless refreshing when the matches to follow were composed of two teams of four.

Keeping the rules simple and traditional to deliver on what old school fans expect is key to the success of the gimmick as WWE both serves nostalgia and rolls WarGames out to a segment audience members who may not have seen it before.

WWE Should Tell Very Different Stories Between The Men’s And Women’s WarGames Matches

There’s always a danger when WWE books two iterations of a major gimmick match in the same night, as they’ve come to do regularly for the Royal Rumble, Elimination Chamber, Hell in a Cell, and others. Will fans still be excited for the second go-round? How can WWE avoid fans feeling like they’re seeing the same story play out twice?

NXT was mostly successful at differentiating WarGames matches on the occasions when they booked two in the same night, so there is hope. There’s room for variation between which performers are booked into the match and what their storylines are, in addition to matters such as which team wins, what the key spots are, or if anyone turns on their team. Having one of the matches dedicated to male talent and the other to female talent will offer one step in that differentiation.

WWE Should Have The Bloodline Go To War

When WWE downgraded its Money in the Bank PPV from Allegiant Stadium to the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, major names like Roman Reigns and Brock Lesnar quickly disappeared from the marketing. Nothing suggests a “throwaway” PPV more than failing to feature the biggest stars.

While Money in the Bank generally had a good reception from fans, it also felt a bit underwhelming when it came to star power—reliant on the eponymous gimmick more so than the talents in the ring to sell the show.

One way to ensure WarGames does not feel like a crutch, but rather a vehicle for meaningful storytelling is to ensure big names and angles are in the mix. The Bloodline is the most obvious choice. Maybe it’s all five wrestlers, Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, The Usos, and Sami Zayn involved as the top pushed group in the company. Otherwise, it could be interesting if they promoted a four-man team with Reigns leading them to victory, or else sitting it out and setting up Zayn to cost them the match and jeopardize his tenuous standing in the faction.

WWE Should Not Feature WarGames At The Expense Of Traditional Elimination Tag Team Action

Survivor Series dates back to 1987, making it second only to WrestleMania as the longest running annual  PPV WWE has, and the original gimmick-match-based PPV. From the beginning and with very few exceptions, the show has featured elimination tag team matches, traditionally among four or five-person teams.

Having two WarGames matches both consumes a large portion of the roster and already sets up two team-based feuds going into the PPV. These dynamics may make booking big elimination tag team matches less practical, but it’s nonetheless a good idea for WWE to maintain some of its roots in this scenario with at least one traditionally formatted bout.

Feature A Surprise Team Member

Triple H has proven himself a master of booking surprise returns and debuts since taking control of WWE creative and talent relations. That includes Braun Strowman, Johnny Gargano, Damage Control, and the pair of Karrion Kross and Scarlett Bourdeaux among the most dramatic examples to date.

Having two matches likely to feature at least sixteen wrestlers invites at least one mystery team member or last-minute replacement to be in the mix. With no shortage of allusions to Bray Wyatt potentially returning soon and other part time talents and free agents conceivably in the mix, it both feels as though WarGames would be a great platform for a major surprise and such a surprise could be a good way of establishing WarGames on the WWE main roster landscape.

In the end, Triple H’s respect for the tradition of WarGames and drive to introduce it first to NXT and now to the main roster bode well for how the concept will be handled at Survivor Series. Time will tell how it all plays out, but it should, at least, offer a unique spectacle for the fans.

Things are going to get ‘crazy’ during the upcoming Men’s and Women’s WarGames matches scheduled for later this month.

WarGames, a staple of the NWA and later WCW, was first used by WWE in 2017 as part of the NXT brand.

Ths year’s Survivor Series will mark the first time the match type has been used as part of the main roster.

WarGames

With this being the first usage of WarGames on the main roster, there is (unsurprisingly) a lot of excitement around this year’s Survivor Series. On Wrestling Observer Radio, Bryan Alverez reported that WWE is planning for some “craziness” as part of both matches.

It was added that WWE wants exciting footage that they can use for future video packages of the match.

While WWE already has footage from NXT, many of the Superstars in those matches have since been released.

The only WarGames matches which were filled with still-employed Superstars took place at last year’s NXT WarGames event.

Filling the Cage

At this time, no men have been announced for their WarGames match, but the women’s match is nearly full. Its been confirmed that Damage CTRL, Nikki Cross, and a mystery partner will face Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss, Asuka, and two partners.

On this week’s Raw, a backstage segment teased that Rhea Ripley could feud with Belair next, and it’s likely she will be added to the heel team.

If so, then fans can expect Mia Yim to enter the match, who returned on this week’s Raw and attacked Ripley.

Candice LeRae is also a likely candidate to fill out the babyface team, given that she too has had issues with Damage CTRL in recent weeks.

WWE Hall of Famer Kurt Angle has shared his thoughts about WarGames returning to the main roster at Survivor Series. The WarGames match have been a staple in NXT since 2017. The matches feature two teams battling in two rings surrounded by cages. All Elite Wrestling has introduced their own version of the match called Blood & Guts.

Triple H made the announcement this week that there will be a men’s and women’s WarGames match at the Premium Live Event at the TD Garden in Boston on November 26th.

Survivor Series used to have RAW versus SmackDown in traditional elimination matches. Speaking with AJ Singh on “The Wrassingh Show“, the Olympic Gold Medalist revealed that he wasn’t a fan of the Survivor Series elimination matches and is

“Well, you know, it’s going to be different. It is not going to be the same structure but I believe it will be very effective. It’s new and new is always good. I think bringing anything into the company that revives it and is invigorating, I think it’s a great idea. I never was crazy about the Survivor Series elimination match.

I don’t think it did a lot for any of the wrestlers. The only one that it did a lot for is the one who won. Nobody else really got over in that match. So, I think that this might be a little bit better.

Kurt Angle on WarGames returning at WWE Survivor Series

H/T: Sportskeeda

Kurt Angle Appears On WWE RAW

The 53-year-old appeared recently on RAW from his hometown of Pittsburgh. He was ringside for a tag team match between The Street Profits and Alpha Academy. Montez Ford picked up the victory for The Street Profits after hitting Chad Gable with a Frog Splash.

After the match, Montez and Angelo tried to share a drink with Angle but he spit the beverage out. Kurt and The Street Profits then recreated one of Angle’s most iconic moments in his career and chugged some milk as the crowd cheered.

WWE has announced major changes to the format of this year’s Survivor Series premium live event. For the first time in history, the November classic will feature not just one, but two WarGames matches. There will be a Men’s WarGames match and a Women’s WarGames match.

Also of note, Survivor Series will no longer feature a Raw vs. SmackDown theme. According to Triple H, the show will be more storyline-driven instead of being about brand supremacy.

Triple H spoke with The Ringer about the big shakeup coming to Survivor Series.

“The tradition of the Survivor Series has ebbed and flowed and changed slightly over time, but this will be similar to that,” he Triple H. “This will not be Raw versus SmackDown. It will be much more story-line driven. I still look at it as a traditional component to Survivor Series in there because it’s large teams of people competing. We just upped the ante a little bit with WarGames and made it evolve.”

No ‘Blood and Guts’ in WWE WarGames

WarGames has historically been one of the most violent matches in all of professional wrestling. Triple H doesn’t think WarGames needs to feature ‘blood and guts’ because the world is very different these days. He feels the world has evolved and blood is not necessary for a compelling WarGames match.

“I’m just of the opinion right now, given the state of the world and the pandemic, and at the end of the day, what we do is dangerous enough without intentionally making it more dangerous. Yes, we did [feature bleeding] for a long period of time, but we’ve changed that practice. And it’s irresponsible to go back.”

Visit The Ringer to check out their lengthy feature on the return of WarGames, featuring more quotes from Triple H.

WWE Survivor Series takes place November 26th from Boston, MA at the TD Garden arena. The event will stream live on Peacock int he United States and on the WWE Network internationally.

This November, WWE will host its annual Survivor Series event, which will feature Raw and SmackDown Superstars battle it out for brand supremacy.

The Premium Live Event will take place at the TD Garden, in Boston, Massachusetts, on November 26, and mark the 36th annual Survivor Series event.

A Sell-Out Event

With Survivor Series over three months away, no matches have been confirmed for the show thus far, other than the titular elimination tag matches.

Despite this, the show is proving to be immensely popular with fans, according to the Wrestling Observer’s Dave Meltzer.

Meltzer tweeted that the show has virtually sold out during the pre-sale earlier this week, and that the seats reserved for the general public sale are also expected to sell out quickly.

Meltzer added that he cannot recall a show like this selling out so quickly.

Survivor Series in Boston basically sold out during the presale today. Whatever is held back will sellout during the public onsale. I can't think of a WWE show in years to do that.

— Dave Meltzer (@davemeltzerWON) August 24, 2022

A Sign of the Times

Survivor Series 2022 is proving to be popular with fans, but that’s not the only show that has done well.

Earlier this month, WWE hosted their WrestleMania Hollywood tickets launch event, featuring Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair and celebrity appearances by Snoop Doog and JoJo Siwa.

Tickets for the two-night April 2023 have reportedly sold incredibly well, despite no matches being confirmed (though The Rock Vs. Roman Reigns has been rumored.)

Over 70,000 tickets have sold so far in the latest report on the two-night Premium Live Event.

WWE officials are said to be “ecstatic” over the sales figures so far, especially for Night Two of the event.

WrestleMania Hollywood Ticket Sales Off to a Strong Start

A lot can happen between now and WWE Survivor Series 2022. It’s possible Roman Reigns will lose the his unified world title to Brock Lesnar in their Last Man Standing Match at SummerSlam.

Theory is also lurking with his Money in the Bank briefcase, offering a way for Reigns to drop his titles while both saving face and pushing a fresh talent whom WWE seems highly invested in. Drew McIntyre is the presumptive challenger to Reigns at Clash at the Castle, and if there were ever a time to reinstate The Scottish Superstar on top, that would be the venue.

However, the prevailing wisdom is that The Head of the Table will remain on top until at least WrestleMania 39, where he has a rumored dream match awaiting him with The Rock, or else the possibility of WWE going all the way with a returning Cody Rhodes and having him unseat Reigns.

So what should WWE do in the mean time? The answer may sit no further than the SmackDown broadcast table.

No One Thinks Reigns Is Going To Lose At Survivor Series

One of the more awkward dimensions of Roman Reigns having such a long reign atop WWE as that the more time goes by, the more certain it seems he’s keeping the title until at least WrestleMania 39. Moreover, there seems to be less and less chance of him dropping the title to an underdog, as it would disrupt not only The Tribal Chief’s reign, but the aura of invincibility the company has carefully cultivated around him over the last two years. This dynamic hit its nadir when Finn Balor challenged Reigns, and absolutely no one bit on even the Demon version of Balor pulling off that win.

The bottom line is that, unless WWE were to pull the trigger early on bringing back The Rock, it’s hard to fathom anyone beating Reigns at what’s, at best, the fourth biggest PPV on WWE’s calendar, especially so close to the launch of the Road to WrestleMania.

If There’s No Drama About Who’s Winning Or Losing, WWE’s Job Is To Make The Story And Match As Entertaining As Possible

The question of who will win or lose a match is one of the most fundamental sources of drama professional wrestling has at its disposal. Once the outcome of a match is no longer in doubt, WWE has to find other ways of creating drama and entertainment for fans.

The 1989 trilogy of matches between Ric Flair and Ricky Steamboat is widely remembered as one of the greatest series of bouts in wrestling history. Ask a more casual fan who won which matches out of the three, though, and they may well not be able to say. This was a case of match quality superseding the outcomes of the contests at hand.

Similarly when Cactus Jack challenged Big Van Vader in a Texas Death Match at WCW Halloween Havoc 1993, there was little question The Mastodon would retain the WCW Championship. It was brutality, storyline, and a wild blow-off match that became iconic, though.

If WWE is unwilling to have Roman Reigns drop the WWE Championship at Survivor Series and everyone knows it, WWE’s job is to find other means of delivering the most entertaining story possible. Pat McAfee is the man to deliver.

Pat McAfee Is The Most Entertaining Man In WWE Today

Pat McAfee is a truly unique phenom in the landscape of WWE. His run at the SmackDown broadcast table has placed him among the best color commentators, and indeed one of the best talkers in general in all of wrestling. Moreover, he has exceeded expectations in his every WWE match to date.

McAfee beat Theory at WrestleMania, and it stands to reason he’ll prevail over Happy Corbin at SummerSlam as well. These victories will ultimately make him about as credible as any full-time babyface on the WWE roster—at least in terms of kayfabe—to challenge Roman Reigns for his undisputed championship.

Between his gift for gab on the mic and his tendency to over-deliver each time he steps in a wrestling ring, Pat McAfee is an ideal choice to tide over Roman Reigns through the fall, before he gets to more competitive title defenses in WrestleMania season.

A part of what makes Bianca Belair such a once-in-a-lifetime star is the fact that she makes her own amazing gear for special events. Unfortunately, one of them has been stolen.

Survivor Series 2021

The Raw Women’s Champion Bianca Belair has quickly become one of the top stars in the company over the past two years due to her Royal Rumble victory, WrestleMania matches, and title reigns.

Last year at Survivor Series, Bianca was the sole survivor for Team Raw. She led her brand to victory over Team SmackDown’s Sasha Banks, Shotzi, Shayna Baszler, Natalya, and Toni Storm.

The Custom Gear

Bianca wore and created custom gear for the show with the Raw logo on it. While many wrestlers auction off old ring gear, that’s not the case for this one, even if you see it on sale.

Raw Women’s Champion Speaks Out

Bianca took to her Instagrams story to reveal that her special, custom Team Raw gear had been stolen. 

She wrote:

“If y’all ever see my RAW Survivor Series gear being sold online… Just know it’s stolen…”

Belair recently had another bad fan interaction when she told a story last month about a fan following her and The Street Profits out of an arena.

WWE Survivor Series is in the books.

The show featured some strong in-ring action, a lot of love for The Rock and the mysterious case of Mr. McMahon’s missing Cleopatra egg. Check out our complete Survivor Series results to catch up on everything you may have missed.

Here are some backstage news items coming out of Survivor Series:

Match Order

Some major changes were made to the match card late Sunday evening. The original plans called for Roman Reigns vs. Big E to open the pay-per-view and Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair match to serve as the main event. Those matches were switched, with the women’s match opening and Reigns vs. Big E closing out the night.

This swap also resulted in other matches being shuffled, specifically the men’s and women’s 5-on-5 matches.

Timing

A lot of work goes into the pacing of WWE productions. Pay-per-views might seem like marathon viewing sessions at times, but the company typically has a hard stop-time planned out in advance.

As the night progressed, WWE officials felt things were running long and there was some concern that the main event might have to be cut short. The men’s 5-on-5 elimination match probably got more time than it needed. In the end, Survivor Series went off the air when it was intended to, so it’s possible some time was taken from the Reigns vs. Big E match.

Who produced each match?

The following people were in charge of producing the matches at Survivor Series (via PWInsider):

• Joseph Park (Abyss) produced the Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Damian Priest match.

• Tyson Kidd produced the Becky Lynch vs. Charlotte Flair match

• Shawn Daivari, Adam Pearce and Shane Helms produced the Men’s Survivor Series match

• Shane Helms produced the The Usos vs. RK-Bro match

• Tyson Kidd and Pat Buck produced the Women’s Survivor Series match

• Michael Hayes produced the Roman Reigns vs. Big E. main event

TV Executives Backstage

In addition to members of WWE’s executive team (including Vince, Stephanie and Nick Khan), there were also several entertainment industry bigwigs on hand for Survivor Series.

Executives from NBCUniversal and FOX were at the show. Additionally, there were some important people from Netflix there as well. The Rock’s Netflix movie ‘Red Notice’ was a top sponsor of the show.

Crowd Fatigue

We spoke with a few people who were in the building for Survivor Series. The general feeling is that the crowd started off hot, but the commercial spots, video packages and long ring introductions negatively affected the overall pacing of the show.

How many fans were in attendance?

During the Survivor Series broadcast, Michael Cole announced there were 15,120 fans in attendance at the Barclays Center.

It’s no secret that WWE exaggerates these figures. According to Wrestletix, the venue was configured to accommodate almost 12,0000 fans. Approximately 11,200 tickets for the event, which is still a great turnout.

The long-standing history and the backstage drama that occurred beforehand made the Survivor Series clash between Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair a very emotional encounter for both the competitors.

The Raw women’s champion was interviewed backstage after her match with Flair. She was asked if this was the most emotional match of her career. She replied by saying that she doesn’t know if she is happy or sad.

“Yeah, even watching the video packages, I got a little bit emotional cause to see where we came from to where we are now,” said Lynch. “And the hatred there, the hatred going out there. It’s so sad. That’s somebody who I loved so much. Who I trusted with my life. And we’ve been through everything together.”

I’m the better woman

Lynch continued, “We nearly died in a car crash together and just how much we despise each other now. I just wanted to rip her apart out there. I wanted to rip her apart. I didn’t break her arm like I wanted to. Like I set out to do. And I don’t know if I’m happy or I’m sad about that. but I got the win. And now she knows. She can’t deny it. I’m the better woman.”

Becky Lynch picked up a victory in this encounter after stealing a trick from Charlotte’s playbook. She rolled her up for the pin using the ropes for advantage.

Vince McMahon has ordered talent from both brands to be in attendance for Monday’s Raw, so it’s possible we could see another chapter in this rivalry unfold.

Watch Becky Lynch’s emotional post-match promo from Survivor Series:

The heat between Charlotte and Becky Lynch reminds one WWE Hall of Famer of his own experience.

Charlotte and Becky are scheduled to clash at the Survivor Series PPV on Nov. 21. Charlotte will represent SmackDown, while Becky is the gold standard of the women’s division on Raw.

There is some legit bad blood between the two former friends.

It came to a head on the Oct. 22 episode of SmackDown, when Charlotte reportedly went off-script during a title exchange segment.

The two were said to have been involved in a shouting match backstage. It was reported that Charlotte was escorted out of the building while Becky was gearing up for a dark match.

Jerry Lawler Recalls His Own Situation In Light Of Charlotte-Becky Beef

Appearing on Busted Open Radio, Jerry “The King” Lawler compared issues he had with Bill Dundee to the beef between Charlotte and Becky Lynch.

“Oh without a doubt. That happens a lot but you try your best to kinda cover it up when you’re actually on the air or in front of fans.

“In my case, probably one of my best not only opponents but partners throughout the years was Bill ‘Superstar’ Dundee.

“I’m sitting at a table where I just happen to have these right in front of me. Here’s the AWA World Tag Team Championship. The only world tag team titles that I ever won and Bill Dundee was my partner during that.

“Also, we looked back and realized that Bill and I probably wrestled against each other almost 500 times. And that’s one that most people would not realize that Bill and I never had the best relationship.

“There was always a little, I don’t know if there was an animosity. I always felt it was like professional jealousy, so we never palled around or hung around each other at all and there was always that, I don’t want to say hard feelings but it was a strained relationship.

“I think that’s the situation that Becky and Charlotte find themselves in right now and I think a lot of that, we don’t want to admit it, but it is professional jealousy.”

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Please H/T SEScoops with a link if you use any quotes from this article

Sheamus has joined team SmackDown as the final member of the group to face team Raw in the traditional Survivor Series elimination match.

Last week’s episode of the blue branded show saw Sami Zayn losing his spot in the team after being defeated by Jeff Hardy in a one-on-one match.

The officials then held a fatal four-way match among Cesaro, Jinder Mahal, Sheamus, and Ricochet on this week’s show to determine who will join the blue team for Survivor Series on Sunday.

The Celtic warrior won this match after interference from his friend and the newest SmackDown roster member Ridge Holland.

Updated Survivor Series Match Card

A total of 6 matches have been confirmed for the PPV that will see stars from the two premier brands colliding with each other. Here is the updated card for the show:

• Singles Match: WWE champion Big E vs. Universal champion Roman Reigns
• Singles Match: Raw women’s champion Becky Lynch vs. SmackDown women’s champion Charlotte Flair
• Tag Team Match: Raw tag team champions RK-Bro vs. SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos
• Singles Match: US champion Damian Priest vs. IC champion Shinsuke Nakamura
• Men’s Elimination Match: Team Raw (Bobby Lashley, Austin Theory, Finn Balor, Kevin Owens, Seth Rollins) vs. Team SmackDown (Drew McIntyre, Jeff Hardy, King Xavier Woods, Happy Baron Corbin, Sheamus)
• Women’s Elimination Match: Team Raw (Bianca Belair, Liv Morgan, Carmella, Queen Zelina Vega, WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion Rhea Ripley) vs. Team SmackDown (Sasha Banks, Shotzi, Natalya, Shayna Baszler, Toni Storm)

Survivor Series 2021 will take place from Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York on this Sunday, November 21.