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  • NXT TakeOver & BOSJ reader feedback

    NXT Takeover: Thumbs Up

    • Best Match: Nakamura vs. Aries
    • Worst Match: Asuka vs. Nia Jax (by default as nothing was bad)

    Another very good NXT show and they keep doing what WWE main roster can’t do which is to be consistent.  Granted NXT isn’t over exposed and the same guys don’t wrestle each other a hundred times a week on TV before they meet on the ppv events.  NXT just does things in a way that really works well. 

    Andrade Almas vs. Tye Dillinger kicks the show off and it was a fun match and a nice debut for Cien.  Dillinger has a lot of crowd support for a guy who they don’t do anything with, but he has something and they should try to make him more than what he is.  Crowd was more into Dillinger than Almas.

    Tag Title match was very good.  I really enjoyed this and again they way they put it together makes me feel like I am really watching a tag team match and not what WWE does on Raw and Smackdown.  These guys take me back to what I used to watch as far as tag teams go when you felt like it was actually different from a singles match.  Really surprised at the finish of having the Revival regain the titles since American Alpha barely had them.  Maybe they be on the main roster sooner than later especially with the brand split coming.  Those big guys seemed a little green, but those are the kind of big guys that Vince likes to push.  Surprised to see Paul Ellering too. 

    Shinsuke Nakumara vs. Austin Aries was another great match.  Nakumara just has it. Hope when he gets to the main roster they just go with it and don’t try to change things.  He needs to be pushed to the top.  His entire presentation is great and the music really works.

    Women’s Championship was good, but having to judge it against the rest of the show it would come in last.  Jax will probably be a monster on the main roster at some point, but right now I’m glad that Asuka retained.  Maybe Bayley gets her rematch now.

    Samoa Joe vs. Finn Balor was great as well.  Again NXT doesn’t overuse the gimmicks and the cage match felt important and not just a gimmick because it was a certain time of the year that called for it.  Samoa Joe vs. Brock Lesnar really should be a WrestleMania main event. 

    Just a an enjoyable show from beginning to end.

    – Robb Block

    **********

    NJPW

    I would give the show a Thumbs Up overall.

    The matches they slated were really good loved how the feud between Elgin and Omega is heating up. Should make a great match at Dominion especially after the match they had at the house show NJPW had not too long ago. 

    Best bout was the Taguchi vs. Ospreay hands down. I went in there with high hopes low expectations for Taguchi at least and he blew that out of the water really enjoyed his performance. Though I have issues with Ospreay’s over verbal selling he does a wonderful job modifying maneuvers to accomidate his match injuries. Ospreay was really good in the match The sky is the limit for him. 

    Worst was the second bout Capt. NJ and Yoshi Tatsu v. Chase and Yujiro. Just didn’t do anything for me was hoping for more out of Chase and Yoshi and didn’t get it. 

    NXT

    I would give this show a thumbs middle overall.

    It blew me away on paper and didn’t deliver the quality I would have hoped for but wasn’t by any means bad. 

    Best bout was Tag Team match loved how it was crafted. Great Tandem moves by AA from the onset was really nice to see. I had been saying among my inner circle for weeks the best move for The Revival was to put the straps back on them to give them a little more time in NXT give them and heal heat. I think AA is main roster ready. 

    Worst bout was Cien debut. He didn’t wow me. I would have like to see some form of a showcase. The finish wasn’t great either. 

    – R.Ryan Sterling

    **********

    Thumbs in the middle

    • Best bout goes to Nakamura/Aries
    • Worst goes to Asuka/Jax

    This Tye Dillinger guy really does nothing for me so far.  Tag match was good but nothing new.  Nakamura/Aries was as good of a match as you would think but it felt like they were working the same level they would at a house show.  The Nia Jax matches are such a step down from what was previously taking place in this division that I can’t help but resent her for it.  The Joe/Balor feud is getting long in the tooth.  Even after watching the match (or maybe especially after) I can’t see why a cage match was where they went here.  The amount of hype on social media for this takeover seemed to be a lot higher than usual.  The increased advertising combined with the weak card makes me wonder about the future of NXT going into the brand split.  I realize now what a big part of these shows the women’s matches were towards making me enjoy NXT so much.  The advertising seemed to imply this show would consist of feud ending matches which was misleading and added to much of my disappointment.

    – Jeff Caldwell

    **********

    THUMBS –  DEFINITELY UP

    A very strong show from top to bottom.  As I found myself enjoying this show, and not really caring about Raw at all, it occurs to me this exemplifies the problem with WWE right now: too much content.  Less than monthly special events, which are very good, and a 1 hour per week TV show that you can miss is just about right.  Not to mention the simple booking that you can relate to.  But I think the problem has already been diagnosed, with no solution in sight.

    BEST MATCH: Revival v. Gable & Jordan.  An excellent match, with I believe the right result.  The opening video package seems to indicate that call-ups are coming, and Jordan & Gable deserve a call-up.  Actually, I’m not sure the Revival doesn’t as well.  Their matches are routinely better than any matches on Raw.

    WORST MATCH:  The Andrade match didn’t feel very special, but hopefully this guy will grow into something.  Dillinger did a nice job making the match look competitive, but the finishing sequence was pretty flat.

    I’m not a fan of cage matches, but if you are going to have them in the modern world, you cannot have escaping out the door be an option.  It is just too ridiculous to have Finn Balor standing by the door with his opponent down, but choosing to do a move instead.  A great effort by both guys, and the result indicates that Balor might get called up.

    The Shinsuke-Aries match was surely good, and had some good sequences, but not as good as Shinsuke-Zayn.  I was surprised to see Shinsuke taking that big bump on the apron.

    I think Shinsuke & Finn Balor deserve to be called up as well, but there doesn’t seem to be long term integrated planning on the big stage. Even the Nia Jax match was decent.  A great effort by everyone on the card.

    – Richard Orloski

    **********
    New Japan Super J Cup Finals

    • Thumbs Up

    Finals match told a tremendous story. Thought Ospreay sold much better and overall just came across as such a huge deal and a revolutionary talent. 

    NXT

    Thumbs Up

    Awesome show. 

    Cien vs. Dillinger. Good opener. Did what it was suppose to.

    NXT Tag Title Match American Alpha vs. The Revival. Tremendous. Not sure there is a more complete team in the world then American Alpha. They have the big guy/small guy thing, amazing moves, energy and realness to them. Understand The Revival winning and they don’t get the credit they deserve. After the match was a terrific angle and surprise to see Paul Ellering. Authors of Pain have a very solid look to them. 

    Nakamura vs. Aries. Great match. Really showcased both men. Loved the story that Aries had an answer for almost everything while at the same time showing how hard it is to defeat Nakamura. Nakamura’s charisma is just off the charts. 

    Asuka vs. Jax Women’s Title. Much better then I hoped. Jax has improved. 

    NXT Title Cage Match Samoa Joe vs. Finn Balor. Very good. I actually enjoyed the camera angles. Thought it was a fresh take on it and made it seem more brutal. Great last few minutes. Both guys deserve to be on the Main Roster but may be holding off on Joe to do him vs. Nakamura at Takeover Brooklyn. 

    Excellent show top to bottom. Match of the night I would go with Alpha vs. Revival but it is tough.

    – Mike Flyn

    ******

    I gotta say the show tonight definitely lived up to the hype so I got to give it a thumbs up. The best bout of the night to me was the main event, both guys told a great story and the super muscle buster off the ropes was pulled off flawlessly, I guess if I had to pick the “worst” match by default was the opening contest with La Sombra and Tye Dillinger, only because ever other match on the card delivered in a major way.

    – Michael Thomas

  • WWE Smackdown results: Dean Ambrose vs. Chris Jericho

    – Air Date: June 9, 2016
    – Location: Intrust Bank Arena in Wichita, KS

    – The Big News:

    Chris Jericho beat Dean Ambrose.

    – Show Recap:

    The Club Speaks

    The Club came out to start the show as the announcers plugged Money in the Bank. Both Ranallo and Lawler said it was shaping up to be the greatest MITB ever. That was followed by AJ Styles saying the same thing moments later.

    Styles said people were comparing Money in the Bank to WrestleMania, not just because Gallows and Anderson are fighting for the tag titles, but because of the dream match between himself and John Cena. He reminded us this could be the last time we see it because of the brand split. The crowd chanted “Cena” and there was no anti-Cena chant in response.

    Styles said the past decade has been the Cena era, but it was time for a change, and the new era will begin when he takes out Cena. Styles said when he came to WWE, he let the company know that the Club was a package deal (revisionist history). He said they have dominated everywhere, he would beat Cena, and Gallows and Anderson would become the new tag champions.

    They were interrupted by Enzo and Cass. Enzo did his usual promo. Cass said they would be the ones to win the titles, and he called Gallows and Anderson the “Mr. Clean dream team.” Anderson cut them off and said they’ve been all over the world for years proving that they’re the best. Anderson asked Enzo what he was doing all that time and mocked him for being the manager of a Hooters.

    Enzo said yeah, of course he managed a Hooters, he’s a G. Gallows mocked him for going to sleep the last time they had a big match, and Styles actually started dancing like Enzo. Enzo said he risks it all every time he steps in the ring, he and Cass are all-in, they came here to get money, and at Money in the Bank they would beat the crap out of the Club. Cass called them soft.

    Side note: There was a graphic on the stage for MITB, saying it was “a week from this Sunday.” They can’t just put the date?

    Gallows & Anderson (w/AJ Styles) NC Enzo & Cass

    The match started after a break, and New Day were at commentary. Big E said they brought a broom because they were going to clean up the tag division, which they called a mess. The Club worked over Enzo for a while when the Vaudevillains walked out on stage as they went to commercial.

    Enzo nailed a tornado DDT on Gallows and made the hot tag to Cass, who hit Anderson with a fallaway slam, big boot and elbow drop. Gallows broke up the cover, so Cass booted him out of the ring. Anderson dumped out Cass and the Vaudevillains made their way down the ramp, so New Day left commentary to go after them.

    The fight spilled into the ring, all four teams brawled, and the referee called for the bell. The segment ended with Enzo and Cass knocking the Vaudevillains out of the ring and standing tall, while New Day stared down the Club as they slowly backed away up the ramp.

    They played the Muhammad Ali tribute video. Before it aired, Mauro Ranallo put over Ali as a three-time champion and called him a paragon of philanthropy. Jerry Lawler was grateful to have Ali in Memphis and said he told Lawler that he was the greatest of all time.

    Renee Young asked Rusev and Lana about Rusev backing down from Titus O’Neil. Lana thought that was ridiculous. Rusev called himself the greatest of all time, not Muhammad Ali. Lots of heat. O’Neil interrupted, offended Rusev compared himself to Ali. O’Neil quoted Ali and told Rusev he was taking the U.S. Title.

    Kevin Owens & Alberto Del Rio beat Cesaro & Sami Zayn via pinfall

    Owens started with Zayn when Del Rio tagged himself in. Del Rio worked on his own for a while, but when he went to tag out, Owens told him he was doing a great job and left. As Owens walked backwards up the ramp, giving Del Rio two thumbs up, Zayn ran after him. Owens then sprinted to the back, which was funny.

    That left Cesaro alone with Del Rio. Cesaro gave him a cannonball off the apron, jumped on the announce table to celebrate, and high-fived Ranallo. After a break, Lawler called Ranallo a homer for high-fiving Cesaro. After Cesaro hit a suplex, Zayn and Owens brawled back down the ramp. Zayn rolled Owens in the ring and he got into an argument with Del Rio.

    Del Rio was about to leave, so Owens cut him off. Zayn used the opportunity to hit Owens with a dive. Del Rio tossed Zayn into the barricade, Cesaro gave Del Rio a running uppercut and suplex on the black mats. Cesaro followed with a flying crossbody for a near fall. Cesaro went for the big swing, but Owens superkicked him, Zayn suplexed Owens, Del Rio kicked Zayn, and Cesaro uppercut Del Rio.

    Cesaro did the uppercut train on Del Rio and applied the sharpshooter, but let go to get rid of Owens. He tried a superplex on Del Rio, but Owens tripped him off the top. That allowed Del Rio to hit the double foot stomp. As soon as he did, Owens pulled Del Rio out of the ring, tossed him into the barricade, and pinned Cesaro for the win. Really good match that went about 14 minutes.

    Becky Lynch (w/Natalya) beat Dana Brooke (w/Charlotte) via submission

    Quickly into the match, Brooke slapped Natalya, but before Natalya could retaliate, Charlotte tackled her. The referee kicked them out. Lynch was distracted, so Brooke got a near fall with a school boy. Brooke tried her finisher, but Lynch rolled through and applied the Disarmer for the tapout win. Match was 3 minutes and was the only women’s segment on the show.

    Life Lessons with Darren Young

    Bob Backlund wanted to see how Young would celebrate a win. Young thought maybe the millions of dollars dance, or a moonwalk. Backlund told him to be down to earth and save his money. Young agreed to save his money, and asked Backlund how he’s saved his money. Backlund deadpanned, “This is my only pair of clothes.” This segment was… slightly better than usual.

    Baron Corbin beat Kalisto via pinfall

    Corbin won in 3 minutes with the End of Days. Dolph Ziggler was on commentary and kept calling Corbin “kid” and also a millennial.

    Throughout the show, they aired about 3 or 4 clips from the Ambrose-Jericho feud to hype tonight’s main event. Before the main event, the announcers again put over MITB as a huge show, calling the two main events WrestleMania caliber.

    Backstage skit with Sheamus and friends

    Sheamus was watching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles on TV (or a trailer anyway), as Zack Ryder, Goldust, R-Truth and Summer Rae stood there too for some reason. Sheamus informed them that he plays a giant rhinoceros, and Ryder joked it must’ve been hard for Sheamus to get into character. Sheamus had a funny comeback, saying Ryder dresses up in his bedroom like a Ninja Turtle, but he was actually in the movie.

    Sheamus put himself over as a star, like the new Rock, when Apollo Crews joined and got in his face. Sheamus asked if he was starstruck, so Crews punched him in the face, putting Sheamus on his ass. Crews left, Truth made a joke, and they all laughed. Sheamus threw boxes at them and yelled.

    Chris Jericho beat Dean Ambrose via pinfall

    Jericho was pissed about the thumbtacks, so he slapped Ambrose. He then ran away from Ambrose who chased after, eventually hitting a clothesline and chops. As Jericho got some offense, he yelled some more, claiming it was 69 thumbtacks pulled out of him. Ambrose came back with a suicide dive and tried a Dirty Deeds on the announce table, but Jericho countered and catapulted him off.

    Jericho had control after a break as the crowd chanted “Let’s go Ambrose.” Ambrose made a comeback but Jericho cut him off with a flying enziguri. Ambrose used a la magistral cradle for a near fall.

    They countered each other’s finishers, when Jericho whipped Ambrose toward the turnbuckles. However, Ambrose had to stop himself from running into the referee, and when he turned around, Jericho hit the Codebreaker for the win. Huh.

    The match was about 14 minutes. Jericho set up a ladder in the corner and tried to toss Ambrose into it, but Ambrose reversed and tossed Jericho into it instead. Ambrose then dropped the ladder onto Jericho’s back. Ambrose was about to leave but stopped as the crowd chanted “one more time.” Ambrose stood up the ladder, climbed it, and hit Jericho with an elbow drop. Ambrose stood tall.

    – Final Thoughts:

    The first half of the show was pretty good, as the tag match with Owens/Del Rio vs. Cesaro/Zayn was actually before the top of the hour. The main event was good enough, but I hated the finish.

    Ambrose and Jericho feuded for months, leading to Ambrose getting the big win in the finale. They’ve protected Ambrose since losing to Brock Lesnar at WrestleMania, and not only did Ambrose beat Jericho in their blow-off match, he won the first one too.

    Having Jericho beat Ambrose randomly a few weeks later is pretty dumb, and a sign that they can’t handle a feud with 6 guys. They just keep fighting each other on every show and none of the results matter. They’re all still in the ladder match at MITB no matter what the result of any of these matches.

    They could’ve had Ambrose beat Del Rio, and put Jericho in the tag match instead. Or, Ambrose could’ve just beaten Jericho again. I certainly don’t think Jericho should be “putting over” everyone, but there’s nothing wrong with the story that Chris Jericho simply cannot beat Dean Ambrose.

  • NXT TakeOver live results: Samoa Joe vs. Finn Balor cage match; Nakamura vs. Austin Aries

    While it might not be “The End” of NXT, tonight’s TakeOver show from Full Sail University in Florida will likely be the end of one of the longest and most entertaining rivalries in NXT history as Samoa Joe and Finn Balor will battle in a first for NXT: a steel cage match.

    Also on the show, Nakamura and Austin Aries look to advance to the next step in their respective NXT runs while NXT tag champions American Alpha are hoping this will be the end of their multi-month run against The Revival. NXT women’s champion Asuka looks to make a statement as she battles Nia Jax for the first time with the belt on the line, and Andrade Cien Almas finally makes his TV debut after months working NXT house shows, winning over crowds.

    Join us at 8 PM EST for NXT TakeOver: The End, live on WWE Network. Before you do, check out this preview, as well as today’s Wrestling Observer Live.

    **********

    Andrade Cien Almas vs. Tye Dillinger

    Almas won his debut in a hot five minute match. This was similar to Apollo Crews’ debut last August in that it was a more competitive match than most NXT debuts have been over the years. The fans at one point did dueling chants of “He’s 100” and “Perfect 10” as it was mentioned that Cien means one hundred in Spanish.

    There was a hot move where Andrade went for a moonsault, but Dillinger rolled out of the way. However, Andrade landed on his feet and immediately hit a standing moonsault to Dillinger. Dillinger got several near falls, including one after a superkick when Andrade was upside down on the top rope. In the end, Almas won with a running double knees in the corner while Dillinger was sitting in the corner.

    **********

    NXT Tag Team Champions American Alpha vs. The Revival

    Revival became the first team to become two-time NXT Tag Team Champions as they won clean with Shatter Machine on Jordan. This was different than the usual American Alpha match as it didn’t start with several minutes of Gable and Jordan suplexing their opponents all over the place. Instead, it was more of a fight than a wrestling match.

    At one point, the fight broke down into a 4-way with Jordan and Gable doing simultaneous takedowns and then using a double ankle lock, which made the fans go bananas.

    Dawson hit a Spinebuster which looked nicer than Triple H’s. Dash and Dawson clipped Gable’s knee out during the heat and used a real nice double team combination legdrop for a near fall. Jordan made the hot tag and went all Full Suplex University on both men. Revival got many near falls before the finish, making you believe that they would lose at the end, but alas, they did not.

    The fans were legitimately shocked by the finish and then they were shocked further when The Authors of Pain (Sunny Dhinsa and Gzim Selmani) attacked American Alpha after the match was over! They laid out Gable and Jordan before WWE Hall of Famer and Road Warriors manager Paul Ellering appeared on the ramp nodding his approval. The fans chanted “Who are you?” at Ellering.

    The Authors of Pain have been working the Florida NXT house shows for a few months.

    Asuka was warming up with Seth Petruzelli backstage and Bayley walked in, offering a handshake.

    **********

    Shinsuke Nakamura vs Austin Aries

    Nakamura won with his second attempt at the Kinshasa. As expected, this was an excellent match. Aries had his ribs taped for some unknown reason, but that didn’t really play into the match. The fans sang Nakamura’s theme song, which, if you recall, is completely instrumental. It was pushed in commentary that no one had ever controlled Nakamura the way Aries was, while Aries stretched Nakamura on the mat. The story told was every time Nakamura would go for one of his moves, and Aries would have the counter.

    Nakamura kicked Aries seven ways from sideways when he was on offense. Nakamura, at one point, went for the Kinshasa, but Aries blocked it and suplexed Nakamura before locking on the Last Chancery. Aries gave Nakamura a death valley driver on the ring apron, which looked like it killed him. The crowd did that annoying thing where they count one number ahead of the referee during a countout. Aries went for a Suicide Dive, but Nakamura moved causing Aries to crash into the barricade. Nakamura threw him back in the ring for the finish.

    **********

    Tickets are on sale this Saturday at 12Noon for NXT TakeOver: Brooklyn.

    **********

    NXT Women’s Champion Asuka vs. Nia Jax

    A much better match than expected. This built similar to the Nia-Bayley match from a few weeks ago where Jax just completely dominated Asuka from the bell. Every time Asuka went for a move, Nia would either block it or power out of it. Asuka’s biggest move was a kneebar, but Nia was right near the ropes.

    Asuka made her comeback using a series of spinning back fists that Nia was blocking with her face. Nia used a power bomb like during the contract signing last week, but Asuka somehow turned a pinfall attempt into an armbar. Asuka won with several hard kicks to the face and head.

    Not at the level of the great TakeOver matches, but still really really good.

    **********

    Earlier today, Mr. William Regal was talking to Cathy Kelly when Bobby Roode entered, walked past Mr. Regal, and entered the locker room.

    **********

    NXT Champion Samoa Joe vs Finn Balor in a steel cage match with pinfall, submission or escape rules

    Joe retained the title with a Muscle Buster off the middle rope in yet another excellent match. This was exactly the physical match you expect from these two and at least this time Joe didn’t accidentally bleed in the first 30 seconds of the match. Joe on two occasions hip tossed Balor into the cage.

    There was an amazing spot where both men were on the top rope and Finn went to hoist himself over the top of the cage, but Joe did his jumping Inzigiri to the back of Finn’s head, causing both men to crash onto the mat.

    Joe at one time was caught between the ropes and the cage. Balor was on the top rope and kicked Joe in the face, causing Joe to hunch over on the top rope, crotching Balor on the ropes. Later on in the match they were back on the top rope and Balor gave Joe a Slingblade off the top rope and then one normal one. Balor kicked out of a Muscle Buster and Joe kicked out of a Coup de Grace before the finish.

  • NXT TakeOver Preview: ‘The End’ is near for the Samoa Joe vs. Finn Balor feud

    For the first time since October, an NXT TakeOver event comes home to Full Sail University! NXT’s 11th quarterly special may be living up to its own subtitle as this may be the end for several of the men and women on the show. With the WWE brand extension just five weeks away, odds are half of the competitors on this show won’t be on NXT in time for SummerSlam weekend.

    Before we deal with the future, let’s deal with the now, shall we?

    NXT Champion Samoa Joe vs. Finn Balor in a steel cage match

    This is the first ever cage match in NXT history and has the potential to be the most violent match in NXT history. This is the culmination of the longest feud ever in NXT and one of the longest continuous feuds in WWE, period. Samoa Joe has been NXT Champion since April 21 when he beat Balor in Lowell, Massachusetts. However, this was after Balor had defeated Joe at TakeOver events in London and Dallas. On a side note, Joe is the first man to win the NXT, TNA, and ROH titles — one of the more random accomplishments in wrestling today.

    Each match was better and more violent than the previous bout, with the two men waging war on each other. Now NXT is locking them within the confines of a cage, which should only encourage the match to be more violent. My only hope is Joe does not bust himself open in the first 30 seconds causing the ridiculous sight of a cage match being halted due to blood.

    – Prediction: Balor has been in NXT longer and Joe just won the belt. I’m going with Joe to win, setting up a series of matches with the winner of the semi-main event.

    Austin Aries vs. Shinsuke Nakamura

    NXT’s acquisition of Nakamura has led to a series of never before seen, one of a kind matches. Some have been excellent (Sami Zayn) and some not so much (The Drifter), but this could very well not only steal the show, but steal the pro wrestling month.

    Aries debuted in March and has had quite the different road than Nakamura as he hasn’t had the chance to have that one amazing showcase match. While Aries hasn’t had any bad matches, he has obviously been holding out for the right time and this is it.

    While not officially announced as such, this match will probably set up the next challenger for the NXT title. Aries is better off as a heel and has been teasing aturn the last few weeks, bringing up that Nakamura’s debut got all the press clippings, leaving Aries in the lurch.

    Prediction: Nakamura wins, setting up future title matches with Joe, pissing off Aries more, and setting up his eventual heel turn.

    NXT Women’s Champion Asuka vs. Nia Jax 

    This match has the chance to overachieve. Jax is a lot better than she’s given credit for, while Asuka is arguably the best woman wrestler under WWE contract. While the money, for lack of a better word, is in an Asuka-Bayley rematch, Jax has been a very effective monster and laid out the champ just last week.

    This match has really been built up from each lady’s debut. Both ladies had their debuts being built up at the same time and had their first tv match within a week of each other. Asuka has had a series of hard hitting bouts with Emma, Dana Brooke, and Bayley, while Nia has beaten every B-level NXT woman before flattening Bayley just 3 weeks ago on TV.

    Prediction: Asuka wins and leads to Asuka vs Bayley in Brooklyn, one year after Bayley won the title the first time.

    NXT Tag Team Champions American Alpha vs. The Revival

    This is a rematch of a solid match from Dallas with both teams just getting better since. Jason Jordan and Chad Gable are easily the most popular team on NXT while The Revival have become better characters since losing the titles. This is yet another match where the losers will probably end up on the main roster, so you are left wondering if WWE needs a third super popular baby face tag team or another team of solid, yet unspectacular workers.

    Prediction: American Alpha wins because WWE doesn’t care enough about tag teams to have 3 super popular teams at the same time.

    Andrade Cien Almas vs. Tye Dillinger

    My #1 question is wondering why they changed Manny Andrade’s name — a perfectly fine name that rolled off the tongue, while Andrade Cien Almas sounds forced and fake. Dillinger has won less than five tv matches and despite winning last week, I doubt he picks up two in a row.

    The TakeOver: Dallas dark match against Chris Girard was a better match than three other matches on that show, so I am expecting a really good showing here. Dillinger has a fun gimmick and is popular with the crowd. However, his job is to lose.

    Prediction: Almas wins and moves into a feud with Austin Aries.

    **********

    I honestly believe this could be the best TakeOver show since Brooklyn and possibly even better. Money in the Bank is being built up as perhaps the best PPV in WWE history, but after tonight, it will be second best of the month…at best.

  • Daily Update: Lesnar & USADA, Nakamura to Japan, NXT Preview

    For those curious as to how USADA and UFC will be handling Brock Lesnar and PED testing, we’ve got a lot more on the story here. Basically, since the USADA drug testing standards were not in place when Brock Lesnar announced his retirement from UFC in 2011, he will not have to fulfill the 4 months of pre fight testing. He is being treated like a newly contracted fighter, who just happens to have a fight in a month. So he has only been eligibile for testing since last Friday. However, since he has been under contract to WWE in the last 5 years, he has theoretically been tested and clean since his 2011 retirement.  

    Muhammad Ali’s funeral takes place in Louisville tomorrow. It was the will of Muhammad Ali to have a free funeral for all to attend, because he really was the people’s champ. The city of Louisville made 15,000 tickets available for free to people who registered, and those tickets were claimed within an hour. The sad part is that many of those tickets are now for sale on the secondary market for hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars. Ali had been clear with his people that when the time came, he wanted everyone to have a chance to share in the memories and legacy that he left for all of us, for free, not for profit, because above all else, Ali stood for freedom. 

    [Dan Velten]

      THE ROUND-UP

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      Figure Four Weekly 6/9/2016: Will Christopher Nowinski testify in WWE concussion lawsuit? – The latest battleground in the WWE concussion litigation is whether or not Christopher Nowinski can be compelled to testify. Issues cited in a WWE opposition to the plaintiffs’ effort are included in the lawsuit.

      Wrestling Observer Newsletter

      READ IT HERE: June 6, 2016 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: More details on WWE brand split, Jimmy Snuka found incompetent, more

      A huge double issue of the Observer is out this week, including the real catalyst behind the WWE brand split, a breakdown of the roster, justice denied again in the Jimmy Snuka case, Ricochet vs. Will Ospreay and the Super Juniors tournament plus a full rundown, the story behind Bill Goldberg and the WWE video game and the Brock Lesnar tease, famous boxer vs. pro wrestler fights, WWE schedule and injury rates, business rundowns from the past two months for WWE & TNA, updates on cable stations that carry wrestling and MMA, and one of the greatest territorial business runs in history in the life and career of Cowboy Frankie Laine.

      Our lead story looks at the WWE brand split, why it happened, what is known that isn’t a secret, ads out post brand split, plans for the split two months ago and what the ad department was told then, what different arenas have been told this week, thoughts behind decisions having too be made, plus a roster rundown on what positions WWE is strong and weak in, and where NXT talent should fit in and who is ready, or who can fill a slot.

      There is also an update on the Jimmy Snuka situation, with a realistic view if there will be a trial and what the time frame is and what happens next.

      This issue also looks at the Will Ospreay vs. Ricochet match, Vader’s reaction, Super Juniors standings and rundowns of the shows plus looking at where things are going.

      Updates on Money in the Bank, stars returning to television soon, how the NBA & NHL playoffs coincide with wrestling the next two weeks, an update on NXT, lots of WWE performers off TV for the next several weeks, notes from lawsuit depositions that are eye opening, Cena getting a gigantic endorsement deal, Rollins return news, injury updates, lots of Dwayne Johnson news, WrestleMania in the future notes, notes on how little talent gets told in advance about things, who watches what on WWE network, plus we’ve got rundowns of every WWE & NXT events over the past week and business notes on the shows, all included in in this issue.

      CLICK HERE FOR A FULL PREVIEW.

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      Check out the latest online Wrestling Observer BACK ISSUE: May 3, 1999 Wrestling Observer Newsletter: Death of Rick Rude, WWF Backlash review, more. A look at the life and career of Rick Rude, a review of WWF Backlash, plus tons more.

      WEDNESDAY NEWS UPDATE

      Tonight is big night for NXT as they run their latest TakeOver special event on the WWE network. We have a full preview from our own Arya Witner here. The full card is as follows:

      NXT TAKEOVER THE END ON WEDNESDAY AT 8 P.M. FROM FULL SAIL UNIVERSITY IN WINTER PARK, FL

      • Andrade Cien Almas vs. Tye Dillinger
      • Asuka vs. Nia Jax for women’s title
      • Jason Jordan & Chad Gable vs. Scott Dawson & Dash Wilder for tag titles
      • Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Austin Aries
      • Samoa Joe vs. Finn Balor cage match for the NXT title

      Nakamura will make his way back to Japan on the WWE main roster. At this point he is scheduled for matches against Kevin Owens and Bray Wyatt. We have more on that story here.

      Former UFC Lightweight champion Anthony Pettis has announced that he will moving down a weight class and hopes to make his featherweight debut in August. I guess Pettis didn’t think there was a big enough log jam at 145 and needed to wedge himself in there. Pettis is on a 3 fight losing streak at 155, with losses the champion Raphael Dos Anjos, Eddie Alvarez, and Edson Barboza. 

      Frankie Edgar is opening up the largest UFC Gym in New Jersey, located in North Brunswick. They are hosting a grand opening at the 25,000 square foot facility this Saturday from 9am-4pm with Edgar, Matt Hughes, Eddie Alvarez, Edson Barboza, Renzo Gracie, and Rafael Natal. 

      WWE & Other Wrestling

      UFC

      • Here’s an in-depth look at tonight’s TUF fight from our Steve Juon.
      • Kimbo Slice’s death was all over the Sun-Sentinel here and here, and the Miami Herald here, here, and here.
      • FITE.tv put up some Muhammad Ali docs as well as some Jim Ross interviews with some regional MMA fighters from shows their air.
      • With no UFC or Bellator, the biggest show of this weekend is probably Titan FC 39 on UFC Fight Pass. The show starts at 7 pm eastern on Friday with three title fights. Former Strikeforce, Dream and WSOF fighter Gesias Cavalcante square off for the vacant lightweight title in the main event. Featherweight champion Andre Harrison defends his belt in the co-main and former UFC fighters Dhiego Lima and David Michaud fight for the vacant welterweight title as well.
      • Lightweights Nick Hein vs Tae Hyun Bang have been added to the Sept 3rd UFC show in Hamburg.
      • Nordine Taleb has been pulled from his fight with Alan Jouban, scheduled for the July 7th show in Las Vegas. That’s the first of 3 straight nights for UFC in conjunction with International fight week. UFC will likely be looking to find a replacement to face Taleb

      EVENTS

      • TODAY – NXT Takeover from Full Sail University in Winter Park, FL featuring Samoa Joe vs. Finn Balor in a cage match plus a loaded lineup that includes American Alpha vs. The Revival and probably Shinsuke Nakamura vs Austin Aries, which could be WWE’s match of the month.
      • June 10 – Maryland Championship Wrestling is hosting Jimmy’s Seafood Slamboree in Joppa, MD, with a meet and greet featuring Kevin Nash, Scott Hall, Damien Sandow, JOHNNY CRAB CAKES, and more. Sandow and Colt Cabana are working the show as well.
      • June 11 – Kayfabe Dojo Wrestling runs at Pineapple Jack’s in Rochester, NY, for a 4 PM show
      • June 11 – ECCW Port Coquitlam, BC at the Elks Hall #49.
      • June 11 – NECW presents the 2016 IRON 8 Championship, Saturday Night, June 11 in Wakefield, MA
      • June 11 – Lex Luger will appear  in Gray, TN at the Daniel Boone High School for the Fountain of Life Bible Church’s Car and Bike show at 6 p.m.  The show is free.  There will be a wrestling card in conjunction with the show.
      • June 11 – The UWC returns to Kelly’s Bar/Banquet Hall, 14 Railroad Avenue, Wrightstown, NJ 08562. For more information, call 609-792-9328 or like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/UWCFanCave.
      • June 12 – TNA Slammiversary headlined by Drew Galloway vs. Bobby Lashley for the TNA title from Orlando
      • June 12 – Revolution Pro Wrestling in London, England headlined by Kurt Angle vs. Zack Sabre Jr.
      • June 17 – Absolute Intense Wrestling at Mentor-on-the-Lake, OH at Tequila Jaxx with Joey Janela vs. Facade, Shayna Baszler vs. Veda Scott, Laredo Kid, B.J. Whitmer and more.
      • June 17 – AAW “Killers Among Us” features Zack Sabre Jr. vs. Johnny Gargano, Drago vs. Chris Hero, and more at 115 Bourbon Street (3359 w 115th Street Merrionette Park, IL) All Ages Event – Tickets available.
      • June 18 – UFC in Ottawa: Rory McDonald vs. Stephen Thompson
      • June 18 – New England Fights (NEF) returns to the Androscoggin Bank Colisée in Lewiston, Maine with “NEF 24: PROMISED LAND.” Tickets for “NEF 24” are on sale now.
      • June 19 – Steel Pro Wrestling runs at the KoC in Hamilton, ON.
      • June 19 – New Japan Dominion, one of the company’s biggest events of the year, featuring Tetsuya Naito vs. Kazuchika Okada in an IWGP title match and Kenny Omega vs. Hiroshi Tanahashi in a ladder match for the IC title
      • June 19 – WWE Money in the Bank from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas 
      • June 24 – ROH Best in the World from Concord, NC with Jay Lethal vs. Jay Briscoe for the ROH title 
      • June 24 – Isao Kobayashi vs. Justin Lawrence will appear on Spike.com as the top prelim fight Bellator Dynamite show in St. Louis.  This will be a combination MMA and kickboxing show.
      • June 25 – Great North Wrestling returns to the Pembroke Memorial Centre, featuring Nicolai Volkoff. Tickets available here.
      • June 25 – The UWC returns to Kelly’s Bar/Banquet Hall, 14 Railroad Avenue, Wrightstown, NJ 08562. More information here.
      • June 25 – Ultima Lucha tapings in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles at The Temple
      • June 26 – Ultima Lucha tapings in Boyle Heights, Los Angeles at The Temple
      • July 2 – Stars of Wrestling from Alameda, CA at the Alameda Point Gym  has Bobby Lashley, Carlito and The Boogeyman appearing.
      • July 2 – NWA Cajun Heat in Morgan City, LA at the Municipal Auditorium with Jax Dane vs. Mustang Mike for the NWA title, Rob Conway vs. Rodney Mack and an appearance by Kevin Nash.
      • July 7 – Rock Solid Wrestling runs in Sudbury, ON.
      • July 7-11 The 10th annual Wrestling Observer/F4W convention in Las Vegas, EdinSanAntonio has all the information up on Facebook, or email him at F4Wfan@hotmail.com.
      • July 9 – Smash Wrestling in Fort Erie, ONT at the Native Friendship Center.  Chris Hero will headline this fund raising event to raise money for the Godson of Jeremy Elliott, who Hero will wrestle.  Elliott’s Godson is a patient at the CPRI Treatment Center.
      • July 17 – Premier Wrestling at the IFDES Lodge and Portuguese Hall in Gilroy, CA with Joe Graves (5-1-1) vs. Gabriel Gallo (5-0-1) for the Premier title plus the Premier Women Athletes title with Raze (3-2) vs. Shayna Baszler (1-0), Jeff Cobb (6-6-1) vs. JR Kratos (9-3-1), Nicole Savoy (3-3) vs Desi de Rata (0-0) and Alexander Hammerstone (2-0) vs. Douglas James (1-0).  Tickets are available at www.premierwrestle.com.
      • July 22 – Rachel Ellering appears for Ignite Wrestling in Fort Pierce, FL at the National Guard Armory on a show with Lince Dorado, Mr. 450 Hammet, Lio Rush, Martin Stone, Los Ben Dejos, and more.
      • July 23 – Chikara Pro announced a doubleheader event at Toronto’s Franklin Horner Community Center
      • July 24 – Fenix vs. Pentagon Jr. headlines for Lucha Libre New York at Club LaBoom in Queens, NY.
      • August 13 – Rey Mysterio Jr. will headline a show at Montgomery High School in San Diego, his alma mater, for Viva La Lucha promotions.  Also appearing are Konnan, Psicosis, Johnny Mundo, Teddy Hart and TJ Perkins.

      Today in Professional Wrestling History: Triple H wins King of the Ring; Samoa Joe wins TNA King of the Mountain

    • Daily Pro Wrestling History (06/08): Triple H wins King of the Ring; Samoa Joe wins TNA King of the Mountain

      1941 

      Waterloo, Iowa:
      – Bronko Nagurski defeated Dick Raines

      1950 

      Kansas City, Kansas:
      – World Tag Team Champions Emil and Joe Dusek beat Ralph Garibaldi and Sonny Myers in 2 out of 3 falls
      – Tarzan Kowalski beat Tommy O’Toole 2 out of 3 falls
      – Fred Blassie beat Karl Davis via dq 
      – Jack Pesek beat Carlos Rodriquez

      1960 

      Kansas City, Kansas:
      – Gory Guerrero fought Doug Scott to a draw
      – Bob Orton defeated Emil Dusek via DQ
      – Central States Women’s Champion Lorraine Johnson defeated Judy Glover in three falls 
      – Central States Heavyweight Champion Thor Hagen defeated Ernie Dusek in three falls

      1967

      Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada:
      – AWA Tag Team Champions Larry Hennig & Harley Race beat Johnny Powers & Johnny Valentine via 3rd fall DQ
      – Rene Goulet beat Big K

      1968 

      Minneapolis, Minnesota:
      – AWA Champion Verne Gagne beat Larry Hennig via dq
      – Bill Watts & Wilbur Snyder beat Harley Race & Dr X
      – Luke Brown beat Mike DiBiase
      – Dutch Savage beat Big K 
      – Rene Goulet drew Rock Rogowski (Ole Anderson)

      1972 

      Kansas City, Kansas:
      – Rufus R. Jones defeated Harley Race
      – The Stomper defeated Black Angus

      1974 

      St. Paul, Minnesota:
      – Ivan Putski beat Superstar Billy Graham via dq
      – AWA Tag Team Champions Nick Bockwinkel & Ray Stevens beat Wahoo McDaniel & Dick Murdoch in 2 out of 3 falls
      – Greg Gagne & Jim Brunzell beat Larry Hennig & Paul Perschmann (Buddy Rose) 
      – Baron Von Raschke beat Bull Bullinski

      1976 

      Omaha,Nebraska:
      – In a No dq, No Time Limit Match; Mad Dog Vachon & Baron Von Raschke beat Larry Hennig & Jos Leduc in 2 out of 3 falls
      – Russ Francis beat Bobby Duncum 
      – Blackjack Lanza beat Chris Taylor 

      1978 

      Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada:
      – AWA Champion Nick Bockwinkel beat Jim Brunzell 
      – Bob Orton Jr beat Verne Gagne via dq

      1982 

      Tokyo, Japan:
      – PWF Champion Shohei Giant Baba beat Tiger Jeet Singh via dq
      – NWA Champion Ric Flair double pinfall with Jumbo Tsuruta
      – AWA Tag Team Champions Greg Gagne & Jim Brunzell beat Atsushi Onita & Rick Steamboat 
      – Stan Hansen & Umanosuke Ueda beat Dick Slater & Genichiro Tenryu

      1984 

      Green Bay, Wisconsin:
      – AWA Tag Team Champions Baron Von Raschke & The Crusher beat Abdullah the Butcher & Jerry Blackwell 
      – Nick Bockwinkel beat Blackjack Mulligan

      1985 

      Milwaukee, Wisconsin:
      – Michael Hayes & Buddy Roberts & Butch Reed beat Dick The Bruiser & The Crusher & Baron Von Raschke
      – Nick Bockwinkel beat AWA Champion Rick Martel via dq 
      – Sgt. Slaughter beat Larry Zbyszko by dq

      Atlanta, Georgia:
      – Black Bart defeated Ronnie Garvin for the NWA National Heavyweight Title

      1986 

      Chicago, Illinois:
      – Nick Bockwinkel went to no contest with AWA Champion Stan Hansen
      – Scott LeDoux beat Larry Zbyszko
      – Curt Hennig & Scott Hall beat Colonel DeBeers & Boris Zhukov

      1988 

      NWA Clash of the Champions: Miami, Florida:
      – United States Champion Barry Windham defeated Brad Armstrong
      – United States Tag Team Champions The Fantastics defeated The Sheepherders
      – Jimmy & Ronnie Garvin defeated Mike Rotundo & Rick Steiner 
      – NWA World Tag Team Champions Arn Anderson & Tully Blanchard vs. Sting & Dusty Rhodes ended in a double disqualification

      1997 

      Providence, Rhode Island:
      – Triple H defeated Mankind to win the King of the Ring Tournament 

      1999

      Worchester, Massachusetts:
      – Ivory defeated Debra for the WWF Women’s Title 

      2008 

      TNA Slammiversary: South Haven, Mississippi:
      – AJ Styles defeated Kurt Angle 
      – TNA Champion Samoa Joe defeated Christian Cage, Rhino, Robert Roode and Booker T in a King of the Mountain match to retain the title
      – The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin) defeated Lance Hoyt and Johnny Devine    
      – Petey Williams (with Rhaka Khan and Scott Steiner) defeated Kaz to retain the TNA X Division Championship    
      – Gail Kim, ODB and Roxxi defeated The Beautiful People (Angelina Love and Velvet Sky) and Moose    
      – The Latin American Xchange (Hernandez and Homicide) (with Héctor Guerrero and Salinas) defeated Team 3D (Brother Devon and Brother Ray) to retain the TNA Tag Team Titles

    • Nakamura to face Kevin Owens, Bray Wyatt on WWE Japan tour

      The WWE’s July tour of Japan is coming into shape with the cards officially released on their Japan microsite including Nakamura’s first official scheduled WWE action. 

      Nakamura will face both Bray Wyatt and Kevin Owens on the tour, while WWE Champion Roman Reigns will be involved in two fatal-four way matches for the title. Also, it looks as if the John Cena/AJ Styles feud will last a few months as they are also scheduled for both nights.

      Thanks to reader Robin Clarke for sending these over:

      Friday, July 1st:

      – Fatal Four-Way: WWE Champion Roman Reigns vs. Chris Jericho vs. Kevin Owens vs. Seth Rollins

      – John Cena vs. AJ Styles

      – Fatal Four-Way: WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day vs. The Usos vs. Vaudevillains vs. The Club

      – Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Bray Wyatt

      – WWE Women’s Champion Charlotte vs. Natalya

      – Dolph Ziggler vs. Curtis Axel

      – Titus O’Neil vs. Baron Corbin

      – NXT Women’s Champion Asuka vs. Becky Lynch

      – Ric Flair is also listed as doing an appearance.

      Saturday, July 2

      – Fatal Four Way: WWE Champion Roman Reigns vs. Bray Wyatt vs. Chris Jericho vs. Seth Rollins

      – John Cena vs. AJ Styles

      – WWE Tag Team Champions The New Day vs. Vaudevillians

      – Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Kevin Owens

      – The Usos vs. The Club

      – WWE Women Champion Charlotte vs. Becky Lynch

      – Dolph Ziggler vs. Baron Corbin

      – Titus O’Neil vs. Curtis Axel

      – NXT Women’s Champion Asuka vs. Natalya

      As always, the cards are subject to change.

    • TNA Impact Wrestling results: Slammiversary go-home show with Broken Matt Hardy

      Previously on Impact:

      Last week on Impact, Ethan Carter III was put in charge for the night. He had failed on his Road To Redemption and made a rematch with The Miracle for Slammiversary. Also, Matt and Jeff Hardy were featured in a series of very unique videos revolving a contract signing at Matt’s home in North Carolina and ended after Reby threw a fake doll at Jeff. This distraction allowed Matt to put Jeff through a table, which was done in slow motion.

      Tonight on Impact:

      Tonight’s Impact is the go-home show for Slammiversary this Sunday night.  All the key matches are set and the rest of the card should be filled out by the end of the night. In tonight’s main event, The Miracle and Maria take on EC3 and Gail Kim in a tag match. Additionally, Sienna and Madison Rayne go one on one to determine the number one contender for the Knockouts title on Sunday.

      Show Recap:

      – We kick the night off with the deranged and twisted Matt Hardy making his way to the ring. Josh Matthews reminds us that we’re 5 days away from Slammiversary.

      Matt took the mic and basically repeated everything he said for the last few weeks. He’s broken and it’s Jeff’s fault. He recaps the angle from last week and tells us that Jeff is out of his life. Matt wants his World title back and calls out current champion Drew Galloway. It must be noted that Drew has been really good in his role. Without saying anything, he was able to show that the new Matt disturbs him. Matt wants to be added to the main event at Slammiversary but Drew refuses and instead gives him a title shot tonight. It’s official for tonight; Drew defends the TNA title against Matt in the main event.

      – TNA Knockout Champion Jade comes out and takes a seat at ringside so she can get a better view of the next match.

      #1 Contenders Match Sienna w/ Allie vs. Madison Rayne

      Madison is introduced before the commercial. When we come back, Allie and Sienna are on their way to the ring. Allie is doing the intro for Sienna as they walk to the ring. Allie reminds Jade that if she interferes, Madison will be disqualified. On commentary, Josh tells us that next week they will reveal the 2016 TNA Hall of Fame Inductee. 

      Sienna dominated the match with power moves until Madison made a brief comeback. Sienna used her finisher, which The Pope called the “AK-47” to put away Madison and become the number one contender. Post match, Jade and Sienna brawled with Jade getting the better of Sienna.

      – Backstage, The Miracle and Maria recapped their respective feuds. They take on their Slammiversary opponents next.

      – Next we get a video package on the Galloway vs. Lashley feud that is very well done. It recapped Drew winning the title, pushing Lashley as a killer and recapped all of thier wild brawls. They’ve done a really good job with the build to this match.

      – Next we get a glimpse of Willow laughing. The announcers didn’t acknowledge it at all. Does anyone know where Jeff Hardy is?

      – Now we get a video of King of The Mountain Champion Eli Drake on top of a mountain. He mentioned tonight’s Fact of Life Championship Edition.

      – Back in the ring, its time for Fact of Life. Eli recapped winning the KOTM title and let us know that Bram will get his rematch Sunday. Eli introduced his guests, the TNA Tag Champs, Decay. So far, Eli has not used that ridiculous “Dummy, Yeah” Button. Decay discusses their match on Sunday until the challengers, BroMans, interrupt them. Josh and The Pope say that BroMans have a new look because they have a new manager. There was nothing new about them.

      BroMans bring out Grado and Mahabali Shera to even the odds. Eli started using the “Dummy, Yeah” button and kept pressing the button over and over. Is there anything more annoying? Yes, there is and its Al Snow with a whistle. The Tribunal ran out and a huge brawl broke out. Al Snow was acting like a coach blowing on his whistle (insert dirty joke here). Bram joined the brawl and we cut to commercial.

      The Tribunal (Basille Baracca & Baron Dax) w/ Al Snow, Decay (Abyss & Crazy Steve) w/ Rosemary and Eli Drake vs. Bram, Grado, Mahabali Shera and BroMans (Robbie E. and Jesse Godderz) w/Raquel

      – We come back from commercial and a ten men tag match is in progress. All these teams are involved in matches at Slammiversary. The Pope says that he talked to Al Snow earlier and he wants to be known as “The Coach”. Al blew on the whistle the entire match. It was very similar to John Tolos’s “Coach” gimmick when he was briefly in the WWE.

      Robbie hit a cross body off the top onto Decay and Jesse on the floor. Bram runs wild on The Tribunal and clears them from the ring. Eli uses a low blow and pins Grado to win the match for his team.

      – In the back, Jeremy Borash interviews EC3 and Gail Kim. Like every week, EC3 cuts an awesome promo. He gets better and better each week.

      – Backstage, Lashley approached Matt who was randomly kneeling. Matt again mentioned that Jeff is gone forever. Lashley isn’t letting anyone stand in the way of his title match on Sunday.

      – The Miracle, Maria and Allie made their way to the ring. Maria has a bag with her.

      – Next we get an UFC style weigh-in for the EC3 vs. The Miracle match for Slammiversary hosted by Joe Rogan…er…Josh Matthews.  Of course it ended in a brawl.

      Ethan Carter III and Gail Kim vs. “The Miracle” Mike Bennett and “The First Lady of Professional Wrestling” Maria Kanellis

      Before the match, Maria takes the mic and announces that she will not participate in the match. Instead, her assistant Allie will take her place. Allie is surprised but luckily Maria brought Allie’s gear.

      The Miracle teased starting the match with EC3 but he tagged out to Allie. Allie screeched at the top of her lungs until EC3 told her to shut up. Gail Kim tagged in and dominated Allie until Maria tripped up Gail. The guys tagged in and EC3 ran wild on The Miracle. EC3 sent Miracle to the outside. Allie attacked EC3, who no sold every slap. Gail hit a cross body onto Maria and Allie from the top to the outside. EC3 chased The Miracle to the back after Miracle tried to use a chair. Gail rolled up Allie to win the match for her team.

      Post match, Sienna joined Allie and Maria in a beat down of Gail. They place Gail’s knee in a chair and Maria hit it with another chair.

      – Before the commercial, we get another short glimpse of Willow, which the announcers didn’t acknowledge.

      – In the back, we see Braxton Sutter warming up. Josh informs us that he’ll make his debut later tonight.

      TNA X Division Champion Trevor Lee w/Gregory Shane Helms vs. Eddie Edwards

      As Eddie made his way to the ring, we get a recap of Eddie getting screwed out of the X Division title 2 weeks ago in Ultimate X. Eddie and Lee brawled around ringside to start the match. They have a really good back and forth competitive match. These two should really be on Impact more often. It was full of fast paced action with intense shots and highflying moves.

      Eddie was on top when Andrew Everett pushed him off but Lee only got a near fall. DJ Z came out but Helms took him out with a vicious shot. Helms hit Eddie with the X Division title and Lee pinned him to retain the title.

      – In the back, Lashley and Galloway had a face to face. Drew said that if he can make Kurt Angle tap he could do the same to Lashley.

      – Back from commercial, Gail is being checked on in the back. She’s in agonizing pain.

      – We see the video of Braxton Sutter from last week. He wants to be world champion eventually.

      Braxton Sutter debuts

      They make a big deal out of Braxton’s debut. He seems very nervous which Josh and The Pope point out. This was a good debut for Sutter. It was basically a squash match. Sutter uses the downward spiral to win.

      After the match, J.B. interviewed Sutter at ringside. The fans gave him a great reaction. He said he was going to be at Slammiversary. He ended the segment by saying, “its no B.S”, which are his initials.

      – Next we get a typical Willow promo in the back.

      TNA World Heavyweight Champion Drew Galloway vs. Matt Hardy

      The Pope and Josh point out that they haven’t heard from Jeff but they did just see Willow.

      Drew and Matt always have good matches against each other. Drew gave Matt a backbreaker on the apron and then Matt gave Drew a side effect on the stairs. Matt is in control of the match until Drew counters a submission attempt by Matt. Drew set up for the Claymore when Lashley ran in for the DQ. Pope explained that Lashley interfered because he wants to be the one to beat Drew.

      Lashley and Drew brawled around ringside and to the back.

      Matt’s in the ring and saying that he should be champion. The lights went out and when they came back on the fans in the front are all wearing Willow Masks. This freaked out Matt. Then four guys wearing Willow masks came out. Willow cut a promo on the big screen. Then Jeff’s music hit and Jeff Hardy came out, not Willow. Jeff and Matt brawl in the ring to end the show.

      Next Time on Impact:

      Next week on a live edition Impact, the show will revolve around the fallout and aftermath from Slammiversary. Plus, next week they’ll reveal the 2016 inductee into the TNA Hall of Fame.

    • WWE Smackdown spoilers: The Club vs. Enzo & Cass; Chris Jericho vs. Dean Ambrose

      Dark Match:

      – Golden Truth def. Dudley Boyz

      WWE Main Event:

      – Sheamus defeated Zack Ryder. Dolph Ziggler was on commentary.

      – Titus O’ Neil beat Viktor

      – U.S. Champion Rusev beat Sin Cara

      Smackdown Tapings:

      AJ & The Club did a show opening promo about how they would win at MITB. Enzo and Cass interrupted and called them ‘Sawft’. Gallows made fun of Enzo for being a former manager of a Hooters. Enzo said The Club had been champs on every continent but Antartica. The New Day made their way to ringside and got on commentary.

      – Enzo/Cass and The Club went to a double DQ after The Vaudevillains and New Day interfered and all four teams brawled.

      – Renee Young interviewed Rusev backstage. Rusev said he was greater than Muhammad Ali. Titus O’Neil interrupted and said he would beat him at MITB.

      – Kevin Owens and Alberto Del Rio beat Cesaro and Sami Zayn. Zayn and Owens disappeared for part of the match and fought to the backstage area before returning. When Owens came back, he attacked Del Rio and then pinned Cesaro.

      – Becky Lynch defeated Dana Brooke by submission

      – Another promo with Bob Backlund and Darren Young. Bob tells Darren he saves money by only wearing one pair of clothes, right down to his “tighty whities”.

      – Baron Corbin defeated Kalisto with End of Days. Dolph Ziggler was on commentary.

      – Backstage segment with Sheamus and Apollo Crews. Sheamus makes fun of Crews but Crews punches Sheamus, sending him into a bunch of objects.

      – Chris Jericho defeated Dean Ambrose after hitting the Codebreaker. After the match, Ambrose attacked Jericho with a ladder to end the show.

    • ROH Columbus, OH, live results (Sun): Jay Lethal vs. Adam Page; new team debuts

      Submitted by Andrew Hall

      – Pre-Show: Veda Scott vs “Crazy” Mary Dodson

      Veda wins with a back suplex while Mary is seated on top rope. Good enough match to warm up.

      Kelly Klein and BJ Whitmer come out. Klein gives Mary a Michinoku-driver like move and BJ harasses the ring announcer to announce Klein as ‘the only woman that matters’ in Women of Honor.

      Jay Briscoe comes out and tells the crowd the ROH officials are concerned about his health and he is not supposed to wrestle tonight. Roderick Strong comes out to tell him it is better that way and Jay should take the night off. Of course, Jay doesn’t accept that reasonable offer, so the main event is still on.

      – Caprice Coleman vs ACH

      Good match. Caprice yelled out ‘Buddy Landel!’ and proceeded to do a Landel-style elbow off the ropes. Maybe a dozen people in the audience got it. ACH won with the 360 splash.

      – Stevie Richards vs Mark Briscoe

      OK match. Mark with a DVD like move and then FroggyBo off the top for the pin.

      – Beer City Bruiser (w/ Silas Young) vs Cheezburger

      What you’d expect. BCB wins with his finisher. Silas mocks Cheeseburger and expresses his disgust for the crown and ACH and CB. Silas picks CB up over his shoulders, but ACH makes the save.

      – ANX vs Motor City Machine Guns

      Fun match. Good team spots. Heat on Alex Shelley. Finish breaks down and MCMG do a double team buster move on Rhett ( I think) for the pin. MCMG are pretty over.

      – Adam Page vs. ROH Champion Jay Lethal

      Big pop for Bullet Club, and a good pop for Lethal. Crowd somewhat favored Lethal during the match. Back and forth action. Lots of leg selling by Jay. Page ripped off his knee brace at one point. Big pop for a Young Bucks run in. Superkicks on Lethal, but he kicks out. Another attempt and Lethal ducks and Page gets it. Then Lethal diverts one Buck’s superkick into the other Buck. Follows with a Lethal Injection on both a Buck and Page at the same time. Good for the pin. Really good match.

      – Intermission had BJ Whitmer babbling. Crowd wouldn’t let him talk at all. “We want wrestling” chant.

      – Dalton Castle (w/The Boys) vs Kamaitachi 

      Solid match. Fun spots w/ Castle and the Boys. Crowd into it. Castle w/ a bridging suplex for the win.

      – Lio Rush vs Adam Cole

      The rest of the Bullet Club came out w/ Cole. He then sent them off saying he didn’t need them. Really good match. Near falls and hope spots had me believing Rush would win it, especially after he finally hit a frog splash. But Cole caught him with the knee brain buster for a pin. Afterwards, he shook Lio’s hand and called hm the future of ROH. Then he hugged Lio … but it was just a cover for a Superkick party. Bucks were out and nailed Rush and then all 3 did. MCMG ran them off. Best match on the card.

      – War Machine vs. ROH Tag Champions The Addiction (Daniels/Kazarian) in a no DQ title match

      Early part was just WM mauling The Addiction with hairs and trash cans. Then they got Hanson taped outside to the corner and Rowe taped inside by his legs to bottom rope. Lots of offense on Rowe, but couldn’t pin him since feet on ropes! Daniels cut him loose and they tried to pin. Rowe kicks out. Powers up and frees Hanson. More brawling. They hit finisher on Kazrian, but Daniels saved. Then War Machine decided to get the tables.

      Before they can, two big guys (Shane Taylor and Keith Lee) run in and demolish WM with power bomb moves. The Addiction recover and give Hanson a double suplex with a belly landing on the table for the pin.

      – Jay Briscoe vs Rodrick Strong

      Lots of heat on Strong. Back and forth match. Ref bump and Jay got visual pin. Revived ref and hit the Jay Driller, but only got 2. A short exchange and Strong hit his suplex into front codebreaker like finish for a surprise victory. Solid match.