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Tag: wwe results

  • WWE TLC 2015 live results: Roman Reigns vs. Sheamus

    At Survivor Series, WWE decided to shuffle up the deck and pull a swerve by having Sheamus cash in his Money In The Bank briefcase, snatching the WWE title away from five minute champion Roman Reigns in a move that disappointed many.

    We’re doing our post-match poll on both this show and the UFC show last night, so you can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to dave@wrestlingobserver.com

    BECKY LYNCH VS. SASHA BANKS IN THE PRE SHOW MATCH

    Nice match, particularly the last 30 seconds or so as Lynch kept going from armbar to Fujiwara armbar.  Tamina Snuka distracted the ref and Naomi kicked Lynch and then Banks did the back stabber into the bank statement.  The crowd popped pretty good for the Banks win since she’s local.  Crowd wasn’t super into it but they reacted decently enough.

    They are teasing that Zeb Colter may be back with Jack Swagger, which may also mean that the Del Rio/Swagger thing from Raw also could be a swerve. 

    It appears smart money is in because the odds are long now.  So here are the favorites:

    Sheamus 45-to-1 favorite

    Dean Ambrose 12-to-1 favorite

    New Day 20-to-1 favorite

    Charlotte 5-to-1 favorite

    Wyatt Family 6-to-1 favorite

    Alberto Del Rio 45-to-1 favorite

    Rusev 45-to-1 favorite

    NEW DAY VS. USOS VS. LUCHA DRAGONS IN A LADDER MATCH FOR TAG TITLES

    The New day retained when Kalisto was climbing and Xavier Woods, who was on commentary, threw the trombone at Kalisto and Kingston threw him off the ladder.  Kingston slowly climbed and pulled down the belts.  Absolutely awesome spot fest like a modern version of the Edge & Christian vs. Hardys vs. Dudleys match but with all new spots.  Kalisto did the Salida del on Jimmy off the top of a ladder crashinG through another ladder.  There were dives, like the Dragons doing a double moonsault off the middle rope to the floor on E & Kingston.  Kalisto did a dragon rana off a ladder which flipped Kingston back into the ladder face first.  There was about 18 minutes of this.  Like a crazy Lucha match in many ways.  It’s going to hard for anyone to come close to this.  Creative and well executed.     

    RYBACK VS. RUSEV

    Good match.  Rusev threw Ryback into Lana and she started selling which distracted Ryback.  Rusev superkicked him and went for the pin but Ryback kicked out.  Ryback got out of the accoalde but Rusev got out of shell shock and Rusev used a high kick and won with the accolade with Ryback passing out.  Rusev and Lana had teased a walk out and Ryback pulled him back which was the spot where Rusev shoved Ryback into Lana.  Lana never actually got hit and was pretending again.   

    Dean Ambrose promo.  Roman Reigns is with him.  Ambrose said he was feeling good.   They were doing the best friends stuff.  You always wonder if something will happen.

    ALBERTO DEL RIO VS. JACK SWAGGER FOR U.S. TITLE IN CHAIRS MATCH

    No Zeb at all.  Chair matches are hard because you do a million chair matches and they don’t really mean anything.  They did a good job building up to Swagger finally hitting the Swagger bomb and getting the Patriot lock, but Del Rio, whose leg was wrapped up in a chair, made the ropes.  Del Rio had the armbar in the ropes.  Del Rio did four hard chair shots to the back and then a double foot stomp off the top rope onto chairs.  

    Kevin Iole reported that Mauro Ranallo will be the new voice of Smackdown, but he’ll be keeping his boxing, MMA and kickboxing duties on weekends.  Story is true.

    Dudleys did a promo.

    DUDLEYS & RHINO & TOMMY DREAMER VS. WYATT FAMILY IN AN ELIMINATION TABLES MATCH

    The Wyatts won 4-1.  There were two tables broken that didn’t count, including Braun Strowman kicking through a table.  A table also broke when it wasn’t supposed to when Devon rolled off.  First Rowan took a 3-D through a table from the Dudleys.  Harper kicked Rhyno through a table for the second elimination.  Wyatt put Devon through a table with a uranage.  Harper did a tope knocking Dreamer through a table leaving Bubba by himself.  Bubba poured lighter fluid on a table and the place went nuts, but before he coudl light it, Harper superkicked him and Strowman choke slammed Bubba through a table.  There were two funny spots where Strowman was off but crowd really liked this a lot with ECW and ECW style chants.

    Kevin Owens heel promo.  Said you as individuals have nothing to do with it when your team wins like Dean Ambrose.  Ambrose acts like he’s accomplished something.  Owens said, in reference to Ambrose throwing soda and popcorn on him that “I eat popcorn and drink soda every day of my life.”

    KEVIN OWENS VS. DEAN AMBROSE FOR IC TITLE

    Ambrose won the title by reversing the pop up power bomb into a huracanrana.  Match was shorter than you’d think but very good.  They did a good tease count out early on Ambrose.  Ambrose escaped the pop up power bomb and hit Dirty Deeds but Owens got two fingers on the ropes for the break.  People were really into the title change, I don’t think they were expecting it.   The title change felt like a real big deal here.  They pushed that Ambrose held up his part of it and now Reigns has to.

    CHARLOTTE VS. PAIGE FOR THE DIVAS TITLE

    Charlotte was a total heel working the match like Ric Flair with the begging off kneedrops, working the leg.  Charlotte did seem more confident.  The crowd really got into it when Paige used the figure four on Charlotte like every babyface would do to Flair.  Paige used the Rampage but Ric put Charlotte’s leg on the ropes.  Right after, Charlotte took off the padding of a turnbuckkle and pulled Paige’s head into the exposed metal for the pin.  I’d rather she was something different from Ric but she had more presence in this role than she’s had up to this point in WWE, but not more than in NXT.

    Ric and Charlotte were celebrating.  Becky Lynch confronted her.  Lynch said she didn’t like the way she won.  Charlotte said would you rather your best friend won or Paige won.  Lynch looked confused and unhappy about  Charlotte’s tactics.

    WWE CHAMPION SHEAMUS VS. ROMAN REIGNS IN A TLC MATCH

    Sheamus retained due to inteference from Rusev and Alberto Del Rio, but no King Barrett. Also, there was no Ambrose or anyone to make the save for Reigns.

    This was a really good match. At first, the crowd wasn’t that hot or were doing non-match related chants for Cena and ECW. Both guys worked really hard and physical with lots of teases of wins, chair shots, and more. 

    Sheamus backdropped Reigns through a table on the floor. Sheamus suplexed Reigns through a table. Sheamus used White Noise off the steps through a table. Reigns got out of an armbar and reversed into a one arm powerbomb onto a ladder. Reigns with a Samoan drop through a ladder that broke in half.  At this point, the crowd was booing when they thought Reigns would win.

    Reigns’ Superman punch knocked Sheamus off a ladder. Reigns had the title won when Rusev & Del Rio came in. They beat him down, but Reigns came back and gave them both Superman punches.  Sheamus was on top. Reigns pulled him off and Sheamus hit a Brogue kick, knocking Reigns out of the ring.  Sheamus climbing again. This time they were booing thinking Reigns would lose. Sheamus pulled down the belt to win before Reigns could recover.

    The highlight was post-match as Reigns totally snapped.  He speared all three at the same time. He destroyed everyone with chair shots. HHH & Steph came out out. Reign nailed Sheamus with a chair after HHH and Stephanie told him to put it down. HHH was on the apron and told Reigns to calm down. After a long tease, Reigns hit a Superman punch on HHH. He grabbed a chair and hit HHH over and over with chair shots. It was funny as at one point, HHH told him to do it again (which you could hear) so then he did another chair shot. 

    Stephanie was screaming as Reigns gave him a real beating. Reigns gave him a power bomb onto a table that didn’t break. Fans were chanting “One more time!” Reigns elbowdropped him through the table, so they are doing an injury angle with HHH. This finish was great, complete with a  “Thank you Roman” chant. 

    They are pushing like Reigns is going to be fired. HHH finally got up, and Reigns turned around, sprinted down the aisle and speared him again. This was the best thing they’ve done with Reigns. HHH selling it huge. The crowd didn’t like Reigns at all at first and were cheering heavily for him by the time this was done.

  • WWE NXT Glasgow Results 12-11: Finn Bálor v Sami Zayn for the NXT Title

    By Dregen Rockwell

    Enzo & Big Cass (w/ Carmella) v Blake & Murphy.

    Huge reaction for Enzo and Cass – their shtick is very over. Enzo does most of the work in this one, with all 5 people playing to the crowd frequently. Blake and Murphy get their rest spots in, and regularly cut Enzo off as he inches towards a hot tag. Once Cass eventually gets in, he clears house, before tagging Enzo in for the rocket launcher splash for a clean pinball victory.

    Tye Dillinger v Bull Dempsey

    Dillinger’s ’10’ chant is over for the rest of the night. It’s made clear from the offset that this is strictly a comedy match. Bull does jumping jacks for a good few minutes, and gets Tye to join in against his will. Tye gets defensive over his laminated ’10’ sign, and flips out once Bull accidentally makes him stand on it. Then a match breaks out, with Tye getting most of the offence in before Bull hulks up and hits a flying headbutt for the pin.

    Alexa Bliss v Asuka

    Asuka is super over with the crowd. After the early flurry from Asuka, Bliss targets the arm and gets in some moves before getting in some rest spots. Asuka then turns the tables, and makes Bliss submit to the Asuka lock. A basic match, but the crowd enjoyed it.

    Some promos for TLC aired in the arena, which the crowd didn’t really appreciate, and they amped up the NXT chants.

    Baron Corbin v Neville

    The crowd were surprised and happy to see Neville on the tour. This was possibly the longest match of the night, in a show that ran about 45 minutes longer than advertised. Corbin grounds Neville for large chunks of this with the usual big man v little man dynamic. Neville got some hope spots in, but Corbin would hit some big moves to ground Neville. After a few 2 counts, Neville comes back into it with some strikes that send Corbin outside, allowing for an asai moonsault to the floor. Back in the ring, Neville reverses an End Of Days, and after a couple of teases and attempted reversals, Neville hits the Red Arrow for the very popular win.

    Jordan and Gable v Dash & Dawson for the NXT Tag Titles

    Huge ovation for Jordan and Gable, with a lot of creative chants for them. A chant set to 1993 dance hit ‘No Limit’ by 2 Unlimited was the highlight, as was ‘Save the Gable’ to the New Day chant. Gable starts this one, but unlike Enzo earlier, gets mostly offence in against the champs. Jordan gets a couple of spots before Dawson manages to ground Gable. Quick tags between the champs weaken Gable, before he is able to turn the tide and eventually tag in Jordan. Jordan gets some drop kicks and a belly-to-belly in, and makes the tag to Gable to set up for the Grand Amplitude before Dawson sweeps Jordan out the ring, and Dash rolls up Gable, holding the tights to get the 3 count. Great match, and the crowd showed their appreciation for the challengers post match.

    Emma v Bayley for the NXT Woman’s Title

    Dana Brooke accompanies Emma. Bayley gets the biggest reaction of the night so far, and there was enough in the budget to bring the whacky inflatable arm-flailing tube men. Many creative chants for Bayley, set to soccer songs and Christmas songs (eg 12 days of Bayley). Bayley plays to the crowd a lot before Emma starts getting in some offence. After a rest spot and an Emmamite sandwich to the corner, Bayley starts to make a comeback, but Brooke grabs her foot from the outside, to which the referee ejects her. Bayley then hits the Bayley-to-belly for the very popular 3 count. Nia Jax makes a brief appearance, but instead of entering the ring, just gives her a warning ahead of their Takeover London match.

    Apollo Crews v Samoa Joe

    Decent reaction for Crews, but Joe is the over one in this match. I think he has too much respect to be treated as the heel here. A very fun back and forth match, with Joe playing to the crowd throughout. A lot of families left around us, with tired and cranky kids, obviously realising the show was overrunning. Joe the takes control and hits a Muscle Buster for a surprisingly clean 3 count.

    Finn Bálor v Sami Zayn for the NXT Title

    Huge reaction for both stars. Bálor comes out first, and there was a very brief delay for the ‘ole’ chants – the crowd knows who the challenger is. Zayn is very over with the Glasgow crowd, and is met with huge ‘Welcome Back’ chants. This match was very equal throughout, with Bálor appearing to take the roll as the more heelish of the two. The match kicked into high gear with an insane tope to the outside by Zayn. Zayn then got a close 2-count from a sit-out power bomb. Bálor then got a 2 from a Pele kick. Zayn set up for a Helluva Kick in the corner, but this was reversed before Bálor hit the kick into the corner before hitting the Coup de Grace for the big 3 in an excellent match.

  • WWE NXT recap: Finn Balor & Apollo Crews vs Samoa Joe & Baron Corbin

    Check out WrestlingOutsiders.com for free wrestling podcasts four days a week (and one awesome podcast that has nothing to do with wrestling the fifth day)!

    The Big News: Samoa Joe choked out Finn Balor in the main event, just seven days before their championship match at NXT Takeover.

    The Medium News: Bayley vs. Nia Jax was made official for Takeover, which threatens the streak of eight straight great Takeover women’s championship matches.

    The Little Beaver Sized News: The Hype Bros did a promo talking about poop.

    **********

    Enzo Amore & Colin Cassady defeated Corey Hollis & John Skylar

    The #1 Contender’s are here to kick off the go home show to Takeover! Next Wednesday night Enzo and Cass get their second shot this year at the Tag Team Titles, this time held by Dash & Dawson. This was a very different Enzo & Cass, as they didn’t do their usual entrance, which is so weird.

    Hollis and Skylar looked similar to the champs in the way they dressed, which I guarantee wasn’t coincidental. Colin managed to still scream “How you doin” while beating the snot out of one of his foes. Enzo tagged in and collided with Hollis before dropping him a second time with a nice looking dropkick. The #1 Contender’s picked up the win with the Rocket Launcher.

    After the match they cut a promo talking about how this is how they put food on their table. They have been teaming longer than any team in NXT history (which really isn’t saying too much, but they have been teaming well over 2 years). They stated Dash & Dawson will not effect their future, the only people that will effect their future are in the ring.

    Colin said they have fought too hard for too long to let Dash & Dawson get in the way of what they want. They promised to get retribution, they will leave the champs laying and will walk out as Tag Team Champions.

    -Backstage Tom Phillips interviewed Emma & Dana Brooke. Emma asked why the red carpet has been rolled out for Asuka since Day one. Emma stated that she is the one that paved the way long before you ever heard of Bayley, Sasha, Charlotte or Asuka. Dana made Tom squat down to pat him on the head.

    -NXT Takeover is LIVE at 3:00pm EST. I am sure Dave and the crew will have live play by play. I will be at work, so you will be spared from that.

    -A video for Tye Dillinger aired. I’m not sure if you heard the rumors but he is the Perfect 10.

    Asuka defeated Deonna Perazzo via ref stoppage

    It’s Asuka time. She has added the horizontal line across her face that is similar to the one Havok used in TNA. They could not have given Deonna a wackier name if they tried.

    Asuka with some really nice wrestling before snapping off an armbar so beautiful that Alberto Del Rio could take lessons. Thankfully for Deonna, Jimmy Uso did not dive off the top rope onto the arm, but instead she got the ropes.

    Asuka hit a Hip Attack, so Emma decided now was the best time to stand on the ramp, looking amazing in her jeans. Asuka then took off Deonna’s head with a spin kick and won via ref stoppage.

    -The Hype Bros were being annoying and talking about poop.

    -Alexa told Blake & Murphy that she was embarrassed. Alexa is really upset that she lost to Bayley and it’s her mens’ fault. They did vow to break the Hype Bros.

    -The Drifter is Elias Sampson and I assume he is re-debuting soon. Honestly I think NXT should have a grifter character.

    The Hype Bros upset Blake & Murphy (w/Alexa)

    Blake is now wearing a ripped shirt that looks like he tried to wear one of Alexa’s shirts. Not sure if that’s better or worse than when I couldn’t tell the two apart. My least favorite announcer’s Heel Rant Of The Week was about the Hype Bros.

    The former champs tried to double team Mojo, but Mojo ran through his foes and then Irish Whipped Zach, who took the Chris Hamerick bump through the ropes with a dropkick to the heels outside the ring. Ryder went for the Broski Boot on Murphy, but Blake broke it up. Unfortunately Blake then got hit with the Broski Boot, but Murphy cut off Ryder for the heat.

    Mojo got the hot tag and did a really good comeback, featuring a discus lariat to Blake. The faces actually won with the Assisted Rough Ryder (Hype Ryder) in an upset.

    This was a decent match that was given quite a bit of time given that neither team is currently on the Takeover card.

    -Samoa Joe and Baron Corbin had a meeting backstage. Tonight is not about how they don’t like each other, it’s about taking out Finn Balor & Apollo Crews. Corbin called Apollo a rookie who doesn’t deserve anything while Joe said Finn betrayed him and not the other way around.

    Women’s Champion Bayley pinned Peyton Royce

    Next week on Takeover Bayley will defend the eight pounds of silver and purple against Nia Jax. While I like both ladies, I suspect that the streak of amazing womens championship matches ends at eight. Peyton now comes out with a flower.

    The story of this match was if Bayley was making a mistake by taking a match with Takeover next week, especially since Nia has beaten her down the last two weeks. Peyton got a bit more offense than you would expect, but it did further the story. Bayley made her comeback, hit the Belly to Bayley and picked up the win!

    Bayley had no time to celebrate when Nia Jax and Eva Marie strolled out onto the stage. The fans made so much noise to avoid hearing Eva talking. Shockingly they didn’t get any quieter when Nia took the mic, so Nia spoke louder. Nia said if she got to NXT sooner then Bayley never would have become champion.

    Nia vowed to win the strap because she is destined for greatness.

    -The NXT Championship is hanging around backstage, while Finn Balor stood nearby and threw kicks. Apollo Crews walked up and they discussed whether or not Finn’s head was in the game.

    -Apollo reminded him they have unfinished business and that he is coming for the strap.

    -The video of Sami Zayn injuring his shoulder before his match with John Cena aired. He returns soon!

    Samoa Joe & Baron Corbin defeated Finn Balor & Apollo Crews

    Baron Corbin still has a great entrance. Finn started the match, so Joe made sure to tag out to Baron. Baron and Finn wrestled for a minute until Finn tagged out to Apollo. Baron didn’t want to wrestle Apollo, so he tagged out to Joe. Apollo dropkicked Joe’s head off, but Joe screwed it back on and beat down Crews. With his hated rival down, Baron agreed to tag in to beat down Apollo.

    The match built to Apollo making the hot tag to Finn while Baron tagged Joe in. Finn got the best out of the interaction with Joe, including a beautiful running kick and several running chops. Joe went for the Muscle Buster, but Finn rolled behind for a two count.

    Apollo and Baron fought out of the ring, while champ and challenger fought inside. Balor hit The Slingblade and went for the Coup De Grace, but Corbin pushed him off the top rope. Joe laid out Finn with the Death Valley Driver and then choked the champ out.

    -Seven days before Takeover Samoa Joe has choked out the NXT Champion! What will happen next week? That will do it for this week! Until Takeover, remember to say your vitamins and take your prayers!

    **********

    Next week:

    Finn Balor vs. Samoa Joe for the NXT Championship
    Apollo Crews vs Baron Corbin
    Bayley vs Nia Jax for the NXT Women’s Championship
    Emma vs Asuka
    Dash & Dawson vs Enzo Amore & Colin Cassady for the NXT Tag Team Championship

  • WWE RAW Live results 12-7: Reigns, Ambrose, Sheamus and the League of Nations

    The Big Takeaway: 

    The go-home show for the TLC PPV was strange, but still an improvement from last week. The most relevant long-term takeaway from the show was the instant breakup of the Alberto Del Rio-Zeb Coulter faction. There was a hot opening match and a good singles match between Kevin Owens and Dolph Ziggler. Then came some strange stuff involving Charlotte and Paige. Followed by even more strange stuff with Titus O’Neal and Stardust. 

    Show Recap: 

    The League of Nations were in the ring with its own new music. Sheamus mentioned Rusev from Bulgaria, Alberto Del Rio from Mexico (I thought it was MexAmerica?), King Barrett from England and himself from Ireland. Sheamus said they couldn’t find anyone from America to lace their boots. He talked about how they were the best of the best. Suddenly, the Wyatt Family appeared in the ring. This was the start of their long-awaited face turn, and it took the fans awhile to catch on, but they started chanting “yes.” Bray Wyatt said he didn’t care about nations, this was his world and he was allowing them to breathe in it. They came out to create chaos. 

    They teased a showdown when the Dudley Boyz and Tommy Dreamer came out. Bubba Ray Dudley and Wyatt jabbered back and forth. Devon Dudley said when you’re extreme, you don’t die, you multiply. Rhyno came out. Considering they used a Robin Harris quote and the word “Extreme,” maybe their gimmick is “That 90s team.” 

    Just as they were about to get in the ring, Reigns, Dean Ambrose and the Usos came out through the crowd. They’re running 16 guys out there in one match when they have no depth. Fandango vs. Brooklyn Brawler anyone?  

    Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose and the Usos defeated The League of Nations in a Fatal Four-Way Elimination Match that also included The Wyatt Family and the Dudley Boyz, Rhyno and Tommy Dreamer (21:26) 

    Fans got into Rhyno for the nostalgia pop Dreamer wore polka-dot pants, I guess as a tribute to Dusty Rhodes. That week on the road must have done a number on Dreamer because he looked like he aged 5 years in one week. 

    Dreamer pinned Eric Rowan with a DDT to eliminate the Wyatt Family in 4:45. Michael Cole called the DDT a “Dreamer Driver.” Do what? 

    Sheamus pinned Bubba Ray at 11:06 with a Brogue Kick There was a 12-way brawl midway through this cycle that led to Rhyno and Reigns having a staredown. Man it was scary that someone from the dying days of ECW got a better reaction than the man groomed to be the next John Cena. Del Rio jumped Rhyno before they touched. 

    Reigns pinned Sheamus with a spear to win the match at 21:26. Really good final sequence where Del Rio tried to pin Reigns after Sheamus hit him with a Brogue Kick outside the ring, but Reigns kicked out. Del Rio then applied the cross armbreaker, but Jimmy Uso broke it up with a splash off the top. Amrbose and Jey Uso did topes on the heels at various points. Strong match overall. 

    Sheamus sold his ribs backstage when Renee Young walked up to ask him about the match he just lost. A deadly serious Sheamus said Reigns’ victory over him was as close to the world championship as he will ever get. Young asked if there was anything he could learn about tonight’s opening match. Sheamus vowed to make Reigns pay in front of the whole world tonight. 

    Stardust ranted to himself in his private liar about making the entire WWE Universe see the whole world is a dark place. Titus O’Neal made his weekly appearance and suggested Stardust should leave his dingy room and get some. He didn’t mean that. O’Neal told Stardust to get a life, read a book. Stardust refused to listen. Stardust looked back to respond to O’Neal, who disappeared. 

    Tyler Breeze and Summer Rae watched from their VIP section. 

    Kevin Owens (C) defeated Dolph Ziggler in a nontitle match (19:12)

    Another good match where Kevin Owens won with a Pop-Up Power Bomb. They worked spots around a side headlock. Dolph Ziggler ran his right shoulder into the post and sold his right shoulder extremely well the rest of the match. High spot included Owens doing a senton into the corner. Ziggler rolled out to the floor several times, but hit Owens with a jumping DDT. Breeze never got involved.  

    Right after the pin, Ambrose came out eating popcorn and drinking a soft drink. Owens was furious his music didn’t play. Ambrose got in the ring, threw popcorn and drink in Owens’ face and left. Sure made Ambrose look like a jerk. 

    Wyatt cut a promo on the Dudleys, Dreamer and Rhyno. Braun Strowman said he had a dream where he would become Tommy Dreamer’s worst nightmare. 

    Miz met with Neville backstage. Miz wanted to teach Neville how to be a true superstar so he could be the next Daniel Bryan. If that happens, I guess we’ll never see any crowd signs for Neville again. This led to Miz bringing in Donny Deutsch, who stars in a new USA Network show called “Donny.” Deutsch used to have a CNBC talk show that had WWE personalities appear all the time. Miz and Deutsch chatted. Neville and Deutsch shook hands. Really was more of a promotional piece than anything.  

    Naomi and Sasha Banks defeated Brie Bella and Alicia Fox (6:12) 

    Clumsy match. Naomi pinned Brie Bella with the Rear View after Sasha Banks grabbed her foot from the outside. Not much to it. Team BAD’s new gimmick is saying “Unity” in unison at the highest pitch possible. 

    Right afterwards, the New Day came out wearing unicorn horns. They gave the members of Team BAD the horns and did a group handshake. 

    The New Day claimed to submit thousands of baby names to Kanye West and Kim Kardshian. But they don’t believe WWE Tag Team title shots should be handed out generously, saying they had to defend against Lucha Dragons and the Usos in a ladder match. They did a skit to prove they didn’t need ladders, proving they could get a kitten out of a tree without a ladder. To prove it, Big E. played the role of a tree, Kofi Kingston played a kitten. Kingston jumped on top of Big E, while Xavier Woods told Kofi to climb down. Kofi mee-owed. Crowd didn’t really follow it. 

    Lucha Dragons defeated Kofi Kingston and Big E. (C) in a nontitle match (7:10)

    The Usos were at ringside on commentary. Woods blew the trombone into the Usos face, which led to Jey trashing the trombone and going after Woods. Kingston watched this unfold from the ring, which led to Sin Cara getting the pin with an O’Connor Roll. 

    Reigns did an interview. Note to self: never watch Mid-South episodes on Raw days. Watching Bill Watts, Jim Cornette and even Terry Taylor cut these promos that were short on polish and high on emotion and drawing money makes the current product look so colorless. Reigns said he would face Sheamus later tonight to see who would teach who a lesson. 

    On that note, it was time for MizTv. Charlotte and Ric Flair came out. Charlotte told Miz that he didn’t introduce her father correctly, clearly teasing a heel turn. Charlotte and her father had matching Rolex watches. Flair said he would be in Charlotte’s corner for her title match against Paige at TLC. Miz brought up Charlotte’s win over Becky Lynch. Charlotte interrupted Miz saying she was going to do what it took to win. 

    Miz did a babyface speech saying that Charlotte has changed and wanted to know what she had to say to Paige. Charlotte said if she had anything to say, she would say it on Sunday. Miz said Piage interferred with her friendship with Lynch and wanted to know why Charlotte wouldn’t answer the question. Flair got up and talked Miz down. Miz said Charlotte was hiding behind her father. Miz pressed on until Charlotte spoke up and called Paige a “two-faced gothic piece of trash.” Charlotte said she would destroy Paige for everything she ever said about Charlotte. 

    Miz brought out Paige, who got a babyface pop. Did a miss Paige’s babyface turn? Flair took Charlotte out of the ring instead of confronting Paige. Charlotte left, but Paige slapped Flair. That led Flair to tell Charlotte to get her. Then came a weird sequence. Charlotte jumped on Paige, who didn’t get a comeback and rolled out of the ring. Isn’t it usually the newly turned babyface who has to be pulled off the newly turned heel? And wasn’t Miz the Flair in waiting two years ago? 

    Ryback and Rusev went to a double countout (10:13) 

    Ryback chased Rusev around the ring until Ryback appeared to run into Lana, who feigned an ankle injury. As Ryback checked on her, Rusev jumped him from behind and put him in the Accolade. Lana showed the ankle injury was a gimmick, then laughed as she and Rusev kissed. Lana did an inset promo saying she knew Ryback didn’t mean to hurt her last week when he rammed the steps into her last week. Cole billed this as a weird interview and he was right. Ryback did a rolling tope to the floor, which wasn’t flawless but damn impressive for someone his size. 

    They showed a teaser for Shawn Michaels podcast interview with Steve Austin. Of course, they broached the subjet of Montreal. Austin asked Michaels if the scenario where Bret Hart would be placed in the Sharpshooter was Michaels’ idea, and they cut to the end before Michaels could answer. I’m going to create a bingo card for all the answers that Michaels has given about Montreal over the past 18 years. He went from saying it wasn’t his idea, to telling RF Video that Bret had proof that Michaels wasn’t involved in the screw job in the “Wrestling with Shadows” documentary footage but didn’t show it, to admitting he did know about it, and then claiming it was his idea. Wonder which answer Shawn’s God likes? 

    Jack Swagger defeated Stardust (3:36)

    The match was in progress when Del Rio and Zeb Coulter came out. O’Neal was on commentary. He’s basically doing Dave Meltzer’s gimmick where he wants Cody Rhodes to drop the Stardust character. Swagger won with the Patriot Lock. Immediately afterwards, Del Rio popped Swagger with a hard chair shot. Stardust came up from behind Del Rio. O’Neal screamed “Del Rio, look out!” Wasn’t he trying to help Stardust? Why did he need to warn Del Rio since he had a chair? Del Rio hit Stardust. 

    Then Swagger popped up from the chair shot after barely selling it. He and Del Rio each had a chair at this point. Swagger swung and knocked the chair out of Del Rio’s hands. Del Rio stumbled over Coulter’s motorized cart. Swagger then yelled at Coulter about how he had turned his back on the people and his country. Coutler rode off on his cart.  

    The Rose Bush atrocity saw a 2nd week. Adam Rose said the Miz was trying to use Neville for a remake of Dumbo, which Neville was a shoo-in for. They implied Neville had a big nose. Ungodly bad stuff.  

    In the back, Del Rio was mad at Coulter because he tripped over Coulter’s cart. ADR told Coulter he didn’t want him around anymore. Coulter tried to but in and remind ADR that he was the reason ADR held the U.S. Championship, but ADR wasn’t hearing any of it. Coulter rode away. So this pairing is history, and not a moment too soon. This was an ill-advised act from the beginning and it was best to cut bait while they could. 

    Braun Strowman defeated Tommy Dreamer by submission (2:43)

    It was what you would think. Strowman won with the head-and-arm choke. JBL compared Strowman to Bill Kazmaier, which could be prescient, but not in the way he meant. 

    Reigns showed up to the ring, which had tables, ladders and chairs in it. Reigns remembered that’s how the Shield started, in a TLC match. He started climbing the ladder as a metaphor for his career. Crowd chanted “what” at him. Reigns said it was Sheamus who knocked him down this ladder. He said he wasn’t leaving until Sheamus showed up. 

    Sheamus came out. He said Roman was out of touch. Fancy that line coming from this company. Sheamus vowed to beat Reigns again. They bickered back and forth until Reigns got off this line saying that he thought Sheamus had potatoes, but it turns out he has Tater Tots. That succeeded in getting the crowd to chant “Tater Tots.” Sheamus started to run in the ring, but he stopped. Sheamus said he was going to build a castle of mangled ladders, broken chairs and tables on top of Reigns. Again, Roman challenged him. 

    Sheamus said if he got in the ring, Sheamus would hit him with a chair. So Reigns threw the chair away. Reigns said he didn’t want Reigns to power bomb him through a table. So Reigns put the table away. Then Sheamus wanted the ladder put away, Reigns did that. This was going on forever. Crowd did respond with more Tater Tot chants. 

    Sheamus finally got in the ring put Reigns decked him quickly. Reigns started to clear the announcer’s table when Sheamus made a comeback. They fought into the crowd, where Reigns dumped a trash can on him. They spilled out into the fans with more brawling and worked their way to the ramp. Reigns teased power bombing Sheamus off the ramp, but Sheamus stopped him and rammed Reigns into the tables and chairs on the set. Sheamus gave him a chair shot. Reigns popped up like Swagger earlier. At least they were consistent. Reigns hit Sheamus with a chair. 

    They fought back to where they started, where Sheamus tried to power bomb Reigns through the table, but Regins escaped. Reigns tried to spear Sheamus through the announcer’s table, but Sheamus dodged him. Sheamus rose his arms, but Reigns got up and speared Sheamus through a set of tables set up at ringside. There were some “Roman” chants, but the crowd was pretty quiet for most of this segment and much of the hour overall. 

    SUMMARY: This was a show booked in reverse. We got a solid first hour and it just lost steam from there. Reigns and Sheamus feels like a cold program, which anyone who watched Sheamus win the title would have predicted. I might regret writing this, but Reigns doesn’t have that special quality as a main eventer. He can’t carry a 10-minute talking segment and the fans don’t see him as a top of the card talent. Maybe an upper midcarder, but he isn’t getting the reaction of a star. On the bright side, moving Del Rio away from Coulter was for the best. No one needs to steal Del Rio’s spotlight because he can be a top heel if booked properly. 

  • WWE Superstars results (12/05): Former NXT champs Neville & Bo Dallas main event.

    The Big Takeaway: Zack Ryder beat Heath Slater in a short opener and Neville and Dallas showed glimpses of their old rivalry from NXT in a solid main event.

    Show recap:

    Zack Ryder beat Heath Slater (4:37)

    Ryder looks in such great shape, you have to feel for the guy: he works pretty well, he’s over, if they let him be, and he has a good physique and genetics. They lock up and Slater shoves Ryder off only to turn round and eat a drop kick. Ryder shoulder barges Slater, but a hip toss is blocked and instead he is clotheslined. Slater then runs into Ryder’s boot and after a leapfrog, Ryder gets nailed by the big boot of Slater.

    Slater takes over with knees and stomps and slows things down with a chin lock. When Ryder works his way out, he runs into a heel kick. Slater then chokes Ryder out in the corner with his foot and then returns to the chin lock. Ryder tries to work his way out but is thrown back to the mat. Slater’s suplex attempt is reversed and he runs into Ryder’s knees in the corner. Ryder hits him with a second rope missile drop kick, followed by a running forearm smash. He sets up and hits the Broski Boot but Slater kicks out at two. So, the Rough Ryder wins it for Zack Ryder.

    Neville beat Bo Dallas (8:10)

    Dallas and Neville are travel partners. Some would say that they’re odd bedfellows in many respects but after their NXT rivalry, they found each other to be very good company. They are both hoping that on the main roster that their rivalry can be reignited at some point. Clearly, that’s not the case here, but they really worked hard to show us a little bit of what made their program on NXT special.

    On the bell, Dallas shoulder barges Neville to mat and exclaims, ‘Bo-lieve!’ to some good heat. Neville responds with a leg sweep and takes Dallas to all four corners in turn to deliver kicks to his midriff. Neville then snapmares him into a basement drop kick to the back of his head. When Neville springboard cross bodies Dallas, Bo calls for a time out. Dallas plays possum and grabs Neville and throws him outside as we head to a break.

    When we return Dallas uses a cravat for some time on Neville. He wears him down for a two count and then off the ropes hits Neville with a huge forearm smash, but again can only get a two count. Neville gets in some kicks, but takes an almighty clothesline for a two count. Neville finally manages to get some breathing space when he dodges Dallas’ charge, sending him over the top rope to the outside. Neville uses a springboard moonsault on to Dallas on the outside and then rolls him back inside for the Red Arrow. Dallas has the move scouted, so Neville lands on his feet, turns round and hits him with an enzugiri. Neville then hits the Red Arrow for the win. 

  • WWE Main Event results: Titus O’Neil vs Stardust, Ryback vs Bo Dallas

    The Main Takeaway

    Tyler Breeze distracts Dolph Ziggler into the ignominy of losing a match to The Miz, thus setting up a presumed rubber match between the two at TLC. Hopefully they’ll remember to give Tyler an entrance this time.

    The Miz defeated Dolph Ziggler by pinfall (7:13)

    Tyler Breeze and Summer Rae are already at ringside as the show opens to take in this clash of the titans from the comfort of their “VIP Lounge”. Dolph was tasked with confronting the pair upon his entrance to the ring, which consisted of him standing in front of them forever and unconvincingly selling his apparent rage. At one point, he actually held both fists by his sides and shook them in anger. Maybe hit the guy, or something? I know Dolph is dumb, but those VIP ropes do not in fact create an impenetrable velvet forcefield. At least knock over their drinks again. Really lame.

    “The Zig Man”, as The Ryback likes to call him, does however throw his hoodie at the gorgeous ones after referee Mike Chioda rings the bell. Summer is not impressed. What a badass.

    Perfectly acceptable TV match here, albeit with a weak finish. Miz used a referee-enforced rope break to cut off Dolph’s early shine, before throwing him shoulder-first into the ringpost to start the heat. Miz continued to work the shoulder after a commercial break, prompting one loud and eager Dolph fan in the crowd to try and get a “Let’s Go Ziggler” chant going. I reckon about five people joined in.

    Ziggler’s comeback begins with a dropkick to counter a Miz flying nothing. This leads us quickly into a pretty decent near-falls exchange, ending with Dolph hitting a Fame Asser for two, after a second failed Skull Crushing Finale attempt from Miz.

    Miz rolls out of the ring after this near-miss to collect himself. Dolph goes to fetch his opponent, but gets distracted by Tyler upon re-entry, allowing Miz to kick him and finally hit the Skull Crushing Finale for the win. Looks like we’re getting the Dolph/Tyler rubber match at TLC.

    Sasha Banks w/Naomi and Tamina defeated Alicia Fox w/Brie Bella by submission (2:55)

    Continuing the enthrallingly one-sided gang warfare between these two factions. Fox lost to Naomi thanks to a distraction finish a fortnight ago on this very show, while Sasha triumphed over Brie in similar circumstances on RAW. The story, in other words, is that Team BAD is using the numbers game to their advantage, in the absence of the Bellas’ “fearless” leader, Nikki.

    Fox, for the record, works babyface again here, as did Brie on Monday night. Naomi distracted Lil’ Naitch early, allowing Tamina to superkick Alicia in the head from the outside – Foxy’s incredible sixhead providing her with a, quite frankly, unmissable target.

    Briefest of brief comebacks from the honorary Bella, culminating in a sloppy tilt-a-whirl backbreaker. Naomi tries the distraction again, but Sasha’s attempt at the always devastating schoolboy fails.

    Alicia then voluntarily distracts herself, booting Tamina off the apron, before attempting a bodyslam and getting backcracked and Bank Statement-ed for the submission. Super-short, awkwardly worked match, that only existed to further drive home the aforementioned storyline. Such as it is.

    Ryback defeated Bo Dallas by pinfall (4:11)

    Bo gets fatter every time I see him now. Which is mercifully rarely. Tom Phillips makes reference to this in the most awkward way possible, segueing from talking about how poor Bo is at making friends in the WWE with the line: “He’s the type of guy who goes to the Hershey’s Chocolate Factory by himself.” What!?

    Byron then goes on to speculate that Bo may have thought there was “inspiration in chocolate”, to which Tom replies “It shows!” I always regret the fleeting moments when I don’t tune these two geeks out.

    Ryback misses a big (guy) splash early, allowing Bo to hit a DDT. Although Ryback’s kickout sends Bo flying right out of the ring, he still treats us to a victory lap anyway. So much jiggle.

    “Flyback” (thanks, Byron) hits a missile dropkick, followed by a delayed vertical. He signals for the Meathook, but Bo rolls to the ropes to escape. Ryback rushes him and becomes the second of three babyfaces on this show to pay for it with an ensuing heat segment. Top work, road agents.

    Bo’s heat is dull and uninspiring as always, which he tries to mask by screaming at the crowd and at his fallen foe. He yells at Ryback: “ARE YOU HUNGRY!?” Ryback promptly responds with a Shellshock for the pinfall victory.

    – We get a recap of the main event storyline from RAW, climaxing with the newly-formed League of Nations standing tall at the show’s close.

    Titus O’Neil defeated Stardust by pinfall (5:46)

    Fortunately, Darren Young is not on commentary for this highly-anticipated rematch of last week’s countout win for The Big Deal. Tom, by the way, refers to this as the night’s “featured contest” on more than one occasion. Okay. I guess calling it the main event would be a bit Russian doll-y.

    Shine for Titus to start with, consisting of a slam and – you guessed it – forehand chops in the corner aplenty!

    Stardust then becomes heel #3 to take advantage of a rope break to kick off the heat segment of the match. He intersperses some hissing – and a cartwheel, at one point – to interrupt the tedium.

    Titus blocks an attempted punch to spur his comeback, which he performs with Stardust’s silver paint all over one side of his bald dome, before hitting the Clash of the Titus for the win.

    Final Thoughts

    A second “featured contest” in three weeks for Titus. Unfortunately for him, both took place on Main Event. And he’s not getting any better as a worker.

    This was an unremarkable show really, capped by a decent Dolph/Miz opener that was unfortunately marred by yet another distraction finish. At least it served a purpose in storyline however, as we look set to get a third singles match between Ziggler and Breeze at the TLC PPV. The result of that match, if it goes down, will tell us a lot about Tyler’s future career trajectory.

  • WWE Smackdown results (12/3): Roman Reigns vs. The World

    Air Date: December 3, 2016 (Dec 2 in Canada) – Location: GIANT Center in Hershey, PA

    The Big News:

    Roman Reigns, by himself, defeated the League of Nations in the main event. Also, they officially announced that New Day would defend their tag titles against the Usos and Lucha Dragons in a ladder match at TLC. As expected, Dean Ambrose will face Kevin Owens for the I.C. Title.

    Show Recap:

    After a recap of Raw, Smackdown started with Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose and Jimmy and Jey Uso in the ring as Reigns’ music played. Reigns asked the crowd if anyone was there with their families. Oh god. He said he was there with his family too, calling the Usos his closest cousins out of many, saying they were like his brothers. Reigns called Ambrose his brother too. A light “Hug it out” chant started so Reigns and Ambrose did a quick bro hug to humour them.

    Reigns said Sheamus turned to the Authority and the League of Nations, but that won’t help him at TLC because it’ll be one-on-one. Oh really? Reigns didn’t want to wait until then for a fight, so he called out the League (Sheamus, Alberto Del Rio, Rusev and King Barrett). They hesitated but eventually came out to Sheamus’ music.

    Sheamus mocked Reigns’ speech and the crowd chanted “You look stupid.” Sheamus said he can’t look stupid as long as he’s the champion. The crowd chanted “U.S.A.” and he said they all have their green cards. Sheamus reminded us, again, that Reigns was champion for 5 minutes and 15 seconds.

    Reigns said they don’t want to hear Sheamus tell jokes, they want to see a fight. Sheamus said they just wanted to be friends with him, but since he figured Reigns wouldn’t want that, he spoke with some “WWE officials” and they made a match with the League against Reigns, Ambrose and the Usos for tonight.

    New Day came out. They mocked Reigns some more and called him Roman the Ruiner. An Uso told them to shut up and fight. Xavier Woods said they weren’t done talking – they were told by “WWE officials” that Ambrose and the Usos would have to earn their spot on Reigns’ team tonight by defeating New Day first. Big E said if they don’t, Reigns will truly be “one versus all” (mocking his t-shirt slogan). New Day cackled at their own joke forever. That line was funny but this was not a good segment otherwise.

    Tyler Breeze (w/Summer Rae) beat Neville via pinfall

    Dolph Ziggler, with straight hair and a headband, joined commentary. In an inset promo, Breeze said Ziggler distracted him on Raw and would take out his frustrations on the human troll doll Neville.

    Neville mocked Breeze early in the match by laying across the top turnbuckle. He almost went for a dive to the outside but Summer blocked the way. Ziggler said he would’ve done the dive anyway. After a break, Neville finally did hit a big dive followed by a running shooting star for a two count.

    Neville came off the top and Breeze tried to counter with a dropkick, but Neville just landed on his feet avoiding it altogether. The crowd laughed, but Breeze was able to come back with a superkick for a near fall. Neville hit a kick and went to the top but Breeze rolled outside. Summer grabbed Neville’s foot with the referee distracted, allowing Breeze to catch him with an Unprettier for the win.

    Backstage, Becky Lynch told Jo-Jo that Charlotte is still her best friend and best friends don’t always see eye-to-eye, but she won’t let it get in the way of their friendship. Brie Bella and Alicia Fox joined the frame and called her gullible. Lynch told Brie she should be getting ready to lose to her. Brie spewed some awful dialogue and Charlotte joined the frame to brag about beating Nikki. Brie told her it’s lonely at the top and she’d come crashing down to earth. After Brie and Fox left, Charlotte said she’d be in Lynch’s corner. This was bad, particularly Brie and Charlotte.

    Brie Bella (w/Alicia Fox) beat Becky Lynch (w/Charlotte) via DQ

    Brie went down early and began faking an ankle injury. Brie laughed and Lynch, so Lynch dropkicked her in the leg. That was funny. Brie came back with Yes kicks, a dropkick and running knee. They cut backstage and Team B.A.D. was playing with a pinata. They never followed up on this.

    Lynch came back with a forearm and Exploder suplex. Lynch went for the Disarmer by the ropes, but as Brie pushed her away, Brie accidentally caught Charlotte with an elbow. Lynch was able to apply the Disarmer, but Charlotte jumped in the ring to attack Brie for the DQ. The crowd booed. Brie and Fox left in celebration. Lynch confronted Charlotte who kept yelling “She hit me!” like a damn child. This was awful, even if Charlotte is turning heel.

    Backstage, a disappointed Neville bumped into The Miz. Miz made a crack about Neville’s ears. Neville wasn’t in the mood and told Miz to leave. Miz said Neville has all the talent but is missing a personality. Miz claimed that was social media talking, not him. Neville asked Miz why he suddenly cares, and Miz responded that Neville reminds him of someone else he took under his wing – Daniel Bryan. The mere mention of Bryan brought cheers and Yes chants. Miz offered to help and gave Neville a copy of his new movie.

    Elsewhere, Renee Young interviewed Lana and Rusev. Lana, wearing a black dress instead of her usual suit, accused Ryback of purposely pushing Rusev into the steel steps to injure her. Rusev called Ryback a coward and would crush him. They kissed.

    6-Man Tag Match: The New Day beat The Usos & Dean Ambrose via pinfall

    Big E did a snow angel in the ring before the match. As Ambrose stomped away on someone, they cut backstage to Reigns and he acted happy. New Day got the heat on Jey Uso until he made a hot tag to Ambrose who ran wild on Big E. Woods tried to interfere so Ambrose knocked him off the apron and tossed him into the barricade. He also tossed Kingston into the barricade and clotheslined Big E, but the numbers game caught up to him and New Day got the heat again. (There was a perfectly healthy Uso in the other corner as this was happening.)

    After a break, New Day worked over Ambrose. They cut backstage to Reigns and he acted concerned. Ambrose hit a rebound clothesline and made a hot tag to Jimmy Uso. Jimmy and Jey hit running hip attacks to Woods and Kingston. Big E tossed out Jey and Ambrose took out Big E with a missile dropkick. Ambrose tried a dive but was caught by Big E, so Jey knocked them both down with a dive.

    Jimmy hit a superkick on Woods and went to the top. Kingston tried to interfere, so Jimmy jumped onto the apron, tweaking his previously injured knee. Kingston kicked his leg out of his leg and Woods followed with shining wizard for the win. Huh, New Day basically won clean. Good match, although I’m not a fan of Ambrose being on the losing end of random matches. They cut backstage to Reigns and he acted disappointed.

    Bray Wyatt (w/Wyatt Family) beat D-Von Dudley (w/Bubba Ray Dudley & Tommy Dreamer) via pinfall

    Bray won with a Sister Abigail. This was one of the matches where the babyface gets a lot in a quick match but loses abruptly. Afterwards, Bray picked up D-Von and threatened to use his finisher again, telling Bubba and Dreamer to stay where they were. They backed off as the Wyatts grabbed a table and set it up in the ring.

    Bubba and Dreamer then grabbed Kendo sticks, jumped in the ring and attacked. They seemed to have the advantage but Strowman broke a stick over his knee and took out Bubba with his standing choke. They put Dreamer through a table, piled up the dead bodies and posed over them. Bubba and Dreamer hesitating to get in the ring came off poorly, but this was fine otherwise.

    4-on-1 Handicap Match: Roman Reigns beat League of Nations via count out

    After LON made their entrances (individually), they cut backstage to Reigns who was joined by Ambrose and the Usos. The Usos blamed themselves for the loss, saying they let him down. Ambrose said they’d be at ringside anyway. Renee Young chose that moment to approach them and break the news that they were banned from ringside, per certain “WWE officials.” Ambrose and the Usos were pissed, because they chose to believe her even though she’s not actually in charge. Reigns said he would be fine.

    They got the heat on Reigns almost immediately after Barrett distracted him. Reigns came back with a clothesline on Sheamus, but was tripped from the outside by Barrett. The referee kicked Barrett out of the match, which I guess he is allowed to do, making it 3-on-1. (It seemed like Reigns was able to make a comeback but they abruptly cut to commercial. This might have only been a mistake on the Canadian broadcast.)

    After a break, they worked over Reigns, including Rusev using a nerve hold on Roman’s vest. Rusev tossed Reigns out of the ring and distracted the referee, allowing Sheamus and Del Rio to get in a few shots. They had the heat forever until Reigns hit a Samoan drop on Rusev and made his usual comeback on Del Rio (after Del Rio missed hilariously on a running enziguri).

    Rusev tried to interfere but Reigns caught him with a superman punch. Del Rio hit a back cracker and went for the armbar but Reigns slipped out and hit a spear. He had the match won but Sheamus broke up the cover. Reigns ducked a Brogue kick and tossed Sheamus to the outside. Reigns hit an apron dropkick on Rusev and jumping clothesline on Sheamus. Reigns tossed Rusev over the barricade and Del Rio onto the announce table. Reigns jumped back in the ring right before the 10 count and picked up the count out win.

    After the match, Barrett made his way down the aisle. Reigns called him into the ring, but Sheamus caught him from the side with a Brogue kick. They attacked Reigns but Ambrose and the Usos ran out to make the save and the League bailed. Reigns miraculously recovered from the Brogue kick and said the title would be his. The crowd was into Reigns’ comeback, although it wasn’t a huge reaction.

    Final Thoughts:

    This show was was all about getting Roman Reigns over, as most shows will be from now on it seems. The main event was laid out well in that regard, especially the end. Count out wins tend to be dissatisfying, and maybe this was, but Reigns still laid out four guys on his own and won.

    Unfortunately, whoever is in charge decided getting Reigns over meant sacrificing seven other guys. You can rightfully complain about the League of Nations losing to one guy on their second night as a team, but we all know they don’t really matter. They exist to get Reigns over. It bothered me more the way Dean Ambrose and the Usos were handled. It’s cool they’re protecting the New Day, but I’d rather they not drag Ambrose down to the mid-card.

    More than that, they looked so weak after not only after losing, but listening to orders being delivered by Renee Young, an interviewer/reporter. Not only was the Authority not present, but Renee said they were banned by “WWE officials,” which means nothing to anyone watching. Basically, it felt like nobody was actually in charge. Why would Ambrose and the Usos obey orders handed down by some unknown entity? What are all of these good guys so afraid of?

  • WWE Smackdown spoilers 12-1: Handicap match with Roman Reigns against League of Nations

    The show opened with Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose and the Usos out.  Some fans started a “Hug It Out” chant so Reigns and Ambrose hugged for a pop.  The League of Nations came out along with The New Day.  This built to where Ambrose and The Usos were to wrestle The New Day, and if Ambrose & The Usos didn’t win, then Reigns would have to face the League of Nations in a handicap match by himself.

    Tyler Breeze beat Neville due to distraction from Summer Rae.  Dolph Ziggler was watching the match.

    Becky Lynch did an interview.  She doesn’t believe Charlotte is like Paige.  Brie Bella then made fun of her for believing that.  Charlotte showed up and said she would always be behind Lynch.

    Brie Bella beat Becky Lynch via DQ.  Brie knocked Charlotte off the apron so she ran in for the DQ, costing Lynch the match.  They teased more tension between Charlotte and Lynch.

    Miz did an interview for his new program with Neville.  He made fun of Neville for having no charisma and funny looking ears.  He then gave Neville a DVD of his new movie.

    Rusev & Lana vowed to destroy Ryback.

    New Day beat Dean Ambrose & Usos when Woods pinned Jey after a shining wizard.

    Bray Wyatt beat Devon Dudleys with Sister Abigail.  The Wyatts beat down the Dudleys & Tommy Dreamer and put them through a table after.

    Roman Reigns beat Sheamus & Barrett & Rusev & Del Rio when  Sheamus was counted out.  Ambrose and The Usos came out and cleaned house.

  • WWE RAW live results 11-30: The build towards TLC with Roman Reigns and Sheamus

    The Big Takeaway: 

    At least it was a newsworthy show, which had some good ideas on paper. In practice, they weren’t executed well tonight. Sheamus has formed a new heel unit with King Barrett, Rusev and Alberto Del Rio called the League of Nations. They won in the main event, which needlessly also included the New Day on its side to beat Roman Reigns, Dean Ambrose and the Usos. Charlotte teased a heel turn after faking a knee injury to beat her friend Becky Lynch. And Lana reemerged as a heel, doing a complete reset of her character since February. 

    Show Recap: 

    The New Day came out with confetti and red carpeting like they were going to throw a party. They were there to introduce Sheamus as WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Of course, Sheamus thanked the Authority. He also thanked Roman Reigns. New Day pretended they couldn’t remember Reigns’ 5-minute championship reign, with Xavier Woods mentioning they were playing Street Fighter and heard something about it. 

    Sheamus said if Reigns’ hadn’t savored the moment after winning the belt, he would have seen Sheamus coming. They all laughed over Reigns’ being champion for 5 minutes and 15 seconds, which I think is the average length a Raw viewer stays around before they turn to the football game. Sheamus said you can have Austin 3:16, because Sheamus 5:15 said I just kicked your arse. Not much heat for Sheamus as a top heel, probably because he’s booked as the new Seth Rollins. 

    As Sheamus held up the belt, Reigns showed up, gave him the Superman punch and took the championship belt. Michael Cole and JBL had moments of awkward silence trying to get this angle over without saying the word “belt.” It’s like a game of “Password” on national television where “belt” is the clue but the announcers can’t say it. Somebody get these people a thesaurus. 

    Reigns showed off the belt to Dean Ambrose and the Usos when HHH and Stephanie McMahon showed up. HHH wanted the belt back. Reigns gave the belt back. Well, that gimmick was great. HHH said Sheamus wanted to face Reigns for the title tonight. Reigns jumped at that chance. Stephanie said the catch was Reigns could only win the title if he beats Reigns in under 5:15. Maybe they could call that a Quadrophenia Death Match. (Only fans of the Who will get that. Hate to go all Dennis Miller on you.) 

    Dolph Ziggler defeated Tyler Breeze (10:33) 

    There traded a series of about ten cradles in a row, all for two counts. After Dolph Ziggler kicked out of a schoolboy cradle by Tyler Breeze, Ziggler hit a Superkick for the win. Once again, Breeze’s ring entrance didn’t air in lieu of Cole talking about the main event. If they aren’t going to give Breeze the full trappings of his character, why bring him up from NXT? Pretty good match. 

    MizTV featured Rusev with Lana, making her return after her engagement to Rusev was publicly acknowledged. This was weird. Miz said Rusev had to be upset nursing injuries that forced him to miss the WWE World Heavyweight title tournament. Rusev missed the tournament because of injury? When was this acknowledged? Rusev said there was one person who had been there for him while he was injured, and it was Lana. 

    Lana came out dressed like she was a heel again. She lost her 1980s Great White video wardrobe. Even stranger, Miz said Rusev made Lana “Summer Rae 2.0.” Wasn’t it the other way around? Lana said she never went all the way with Ziggler. Crowd chanted “Yes, you did.” Lana said all the turmoil only made them a stronger couple. Rusev said he never went all the way with Summer. Crowd…ibid. Rusev said from now on, he will break people apart in the ring, but out of the ring his heart belonged to Lana. They started making out in the ring for a very long period of time unti Ryback came out. 

    Ryback said this wasn’t an episode of “Teen Wolf” and the big guy was hungry. This set up a match. 

    Ryback defeated Rusev via countout (1:44) 

    Ryback shoulder blocked Rusev into the ring steps, which slammed into Lana’s leg. Lana went down immediately. Even though he realized the count was on by the referee, Rusev stopped to check on Lana and got counted out. Rusev screamed at Ryback afterwards. A reminder that Rusev is supposed to be the heel here. 

    Ambrose met with HHH backstage. On Smackdown, Ambrose earned an Intercontinental Championship match by beating Kevin Owens in a nontitle match. HHH said if Reigns doesn’t beat Sheamus tonight in 5:15, then Ambrose would lose his title shot with Owens. Ambrose looked mad. I’m not sure why since I-C champions usually job all the time. 

    The Dudley Boyz came out. Bubba Ray Dudley said last week was a tough one for them as they were beaten up twice by the Wyatt Family. By doing what they did to the Dudley’s, Ray said the Wyatt Family had put their names on tables. Bubba unveiled tables with the names of each Wyatt Family member on them. Bubba challenged them to come out. 

    The Wyatts came out. Bray Wyatt accepted the Dudleys challenge, but said they should be careful to invite the devil into your backyard because he might like it and decide to stay. 

    Devon Dudley said the Wyatts had his family and they have theirs. This brought out Tommy Dreamer from the crowd. He brought out the typical trash can filled with weapons. Crowd chanted “ECW.” Dreamer looked tanned and looked younger than earlier this year when he was in TNA. 

    The Dudley Boyz and Tommy Dreamer went to a double DQ with Eric Rowan, Luke Harper and Braun Strowman (3:30)

    They got a six-way brawl going after Dreamer made the hot tag. Then the bell just sounded, which got the most heat in the match and not in a good way. 

    Braun Strowman put Dreamer in the head-and-arm choke while Rowan and Harper laid out the Dudleys. Wyatt ordered the heels to get the tables. As they did so, Bubba Ray got up and pushed Wyatt off the apron and through a table at ringside. Crowd popped and the heels were incensed their leader had gone through a table. 

    Zeb Coulter cut a promo before the match saying the fans were more concerned with Anne Hathaway’s baby bump and social media than the country. Alberto Del Rio said Goldust was out of date and full of hate. Goldust popped him across the jaw. What is the purpose behind the Del Rio/Coulter pairing? 

    Alberto Del Rio (C) defeated Goldust in a nontitle match (1:57) 

    Del Rio pinned Golddust after the double stomp off the top rope as Golddust was on the Tree of Woe. Del Rio put Goldust in a flying armbar afterwards, leading to Jack Swagger coming out for the save and the “We the People” pledge. 

    Charlotte and Becky Lynch talked backstage. Lynch suggested they go to the Authority and ask for a singles match. Charlotte wasn’t hot on the idea. Lynch suggested they have a match like they were on NXT again. Charlotte agreed. Ric Flair walked in for a cameo to trade catchphrases with his daughter. 

    Lucha Dragons and the Usos went to a Double DQ (2:53) 

    The New Day were on commentary. Big E. was funny as hell. He tried to talk like Michael Cole. He sounded like Tony Gwynn. Jey Uso did a tope on Sin Cara that nearly ended his career. Then Big E. and Kofi Kingston ran in for another Double DQ. Xavier Woods explained that since neither team won, the New Day wouldn’t have to defend the tag team titles at TLC. Third screw job finish within an hour. On the other hand, it’s really scary that Big E. was more entertaining on commentary in 2 minutes than Cole and JBL have been all year. 

    Stephanie met with Lucha Dragons and the Usos backstage. They wanted a three-way match with the New Day. Stephanie agreed to put Lucha Dragons in the match. She also agreed to include the Usos, but only if Reigns defeated Sheamus tonight. 

    Sasha Banks defeated Brie Bella via submission (4:58)

    Sasha Banks pinned Brie Bella after a distraction from Naomi. Banks got the tapout with the Bank Statement after a Bakc Stabber. Earlier, Alicia Fox got laid out by a superkick from Naomi and was taken to the back. Announcers explained that Nikki Bella was at home nursing an injury, so Team BAD had Team Bella outnumbered.  

    Roman Reigns defeated Sheamus (C) by DQ so Sheamus retains the WWE World Heavyweight Championship (4:37)  

    Sheamus now has a “Sheamus 5:15” shirt to get heat. Crowd got into the match as the time ran down. To his credit, Sheamus played the time-killing heel very well. Sheamus constantly grabbed rest holds and rolled out of the ring whenever Reigns was on offense. Reigns finally got Sheamus in the ring set up for the spear, but Rusev showed up to jump Reigns for the DQ while Del Rio and King Barrett helped Sheamus out of the ring. 

    Sheamus fell all over Lillian Garcia’s lap, and she didn’t look happy about it at all. He introduced Del Rio, Barrett and Rusev as a heel stable called the League of Nations. Ambrose and the Usos hit the ring. Reigns delivered an uppercut on Sheamus to knock him into the League of Nations. They set up a eight-man tag for the main event. 

    For the record, since Reigns won, Ambrose and the Usos will get their title matches at TLC. 

    New Day did a commercial introducing New Day t-shirts as part of Cyber Monday. This was during the final hour of the show, which gave viewers two hours to get to their computers in time to take advantage of the discounts. 

    Charlotte (C) defeated Becky Lynch in a nontitle match (4:37) 

    Charlotte teased a heel turn by faking a knee injury after a float over in the corner. Flair distracted Lynch, which led to Charlotte doing a nip up and pinning Lynch with a schoolgirl cradle. Lynch acted like she didn’t know what Charlotte was doing, but Flair strutted after his daughter proved the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Paige was on commentary saying she knew all along that Charlotte was someone who would win at all costs. It also proves Charlotte is a big UNC fan. 

    Lynch confronted Charlotte backstage. Charlotte said she didn’t cheat to beat Lynch, she lured Lynch into letting her guard down. Charlotte said it was just tough love and trying to teach her something and talked her into giving her a pinkie swear. Paige walked up to Lynch and said at least her friendship wasn’t affected. 

    Next came a segment called the Rosebush with Adam Rose. It’s meant to be a takeoff of Entertainment Tonight. I haven’t seen a segment like this since ODB’s old Trailer Park talk show when she had Magnus on one night. His closing line was “The dirt is always blooming,” which seemed like a shot at newsletters.  

    Stardust held up a Christmas star and called for the Ascension to rise. Instead, Titus O’Neal showed up and started singing Christmas carols like “Stardust got Run Over by a Reindeer.” Stardust starting hissing at him, but O’Neal threw a present in his throat and wished everyone a Merry Christmas. 

    Before the eight man main event could begin, the New Day came out again and announced they joined the League of Nations team to make the main event 7-on-4. They were selling merchandise 15 minutes ago and now they’re heels again? And shouldn’t the League of Nations establish themselves as a quartet before they receive extra help?

    The League of Nations and the New Day defeated The Usos, Dean Ambrose and Roman Reigns (25:10)  

    Crowd was dead to begin with, but the weird booking just killed it dead. Plus, they went 10 minutes too long. Crowd was more into Ambrose than Reigns.  Jimmy Uso started selling his knee from getting the heat and had to leave the match, leaving the babyfaces down 7-on-3. Didn’t we just see Charlotte fake the same injury in the previous match? Ambrose did a plancha onto five of the heels, and later took out Sheamus with a tope. Reigns hit Del Rio with a Superman Punch and gave Big E. a clothesline on the floor. As Ambrose took out Barrett, he walked into a Brogue Kick by Sheamus and was pinned. 

    Heels picked apart Ambrose until Reigns tried to make the save. Reigns got laid out with a Brogue kick and the heels posed. 

    SUMMARY: 

    I feel like using a facepalm emoji. Need a new heel unit? Great idea. Why water them down in the main event with three more heels? Main event was overbooked. Why does Ambrose continue to do more jobs when he’s the most over babyface they have? Becky Lynch could be a great babyface. This company doesn’t know how to make babyface stars anymore because she came off looking like an idiot on this show. Almost all the matches were too short, and the only one that wasn’t was too long. If this one does a 2.0 against a bad MNF game, who will Vince blame? He needs to start with the face in the mirror. 

  • WWE 11/29 Huntington, WV, house show results: World Champion Sheamus vs. Roman Reigns

    Submitted by Edward Maustin

    – Ryback beat Erick Rowan

    – Zack Ryder beat Bo Dallas

    – NXT Champion Finn Balor beat Baron Corbin to retain

    – WWE Intercontinental Champion Kevin Owens beat Dolph Ziggler and Dean Ambrose in a triple threat to retain.

    – Kane and the Usos beat The Wyatt Family (Bray Wyatt, Luke Harper, Braun Strowman).

    – WWE Divas Champion Charlotte and Becky Lynch beat Team BAD (Sasha and Naomi) w/Tamina

    – WWE U.S. Champion Alberto del Rio beat Neville to retain

    – Roman Reigns beat WWE World Champion Sheamus by DQ

    Notes:

    – Pretty good show. Best match in my opinion goes to ADR and Neville — an excellent match that was half technical and half high flying.