Chriswok

WWE Smackdown Friday, Week 2, March 2023 15 Minute Time Limit: Roderick Strong vs. Daniel Bryan In a superb match, Daniel Bryan defeated Roderick Strong in 13:44 by submission with a LeBell Lock. - Steve Austin was pretty weak on commentary - Commentators put over the 15 minute time limit and challenge set by Daniel Bryan - Daniel Bryan said he'd do one better than KENTA and beat Roderick Strong in 15 minutes or less - As the match went beyond the ten minute mark, Roderick Strong began to frusrate Daniel Bryan by leaving the ring - Bryan changed tactics and began to use more holds and pins to try and keep Strong in the ring - This match got the show off to a strong start - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 79) The Empress - The Empres, WWE Undisputed and WWE Women's Champion Asuka makes her way to the ring - She is not happy - Rhea Ripley interferred in The Empress' business on RAW by trying to save Maki Itoh - At first it was fun to watch Rhea Ripley and Becky Lynch try to gain The Empress' attention - Now the fun is over... they have Asuka's attention - Asuka is ready to end Ripley and Lynch with absolute destruction - Rhea Ripley's music plays - Ripley questions Asuka and says it's Asuka's Empire that faces destruction - Rhea Ripley names all the enemies Asuka has made since she won the WWE Undisputed Title - Becky Lynch, Bayley, Bianca Belair... Rhea Ripley - Becky Lynch's music plays - Someone say my name? - Becky agrees with Rhea, there's a long line of people ready to bring Asuka down... and Becky Lynch's name is right at the top of the list - You really should have tried better, Wrestlemania is just around the corner and I've been counting each and every day - Yet all you've been doing, Asuka, is sitting on throne licking the cream off ya paws - While we're the hungry tigers - Becky Lynch was fantastic - Nigel McGuiness was pretty weak during this segment - In fact, this segment deserved better commentary all round - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 97) LoganCast - Logan Paul, Theory and Riddle are in the ring after the break - LoganCast has been set up - Tonight's special guest is... AJ STYLES! - Logan talks about AJ Style's career... and all the ways it has been wasted - AJ just wants his rightful title back - Logan Paul says this title is for the hard working wrestlers of today - Styles laughs... brawl happens - Logan Paul came out of this looking excellent - Theory worked the crowd well - Logan Paul's hot catchphrase seems to be working the crowd well (rating: 84) Dark Sisterhood #1 - Zelina and Scarlett Bordeaux are backstage - The area is lit in dark crimson - They say that after beating Hate Crew on RAW the Dark Sisterhood should be considered the number 1 contenders for the tag team titles - Zelina came across well (rating: 58) Big Swole & Dana Brooke vs. The Dark Sisterhood (Zelina & Scarlett Bordeaux) In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Scarlett Bordeaux and Queen Zelina defeated Big Swole & Dana in 10:28 when Scarlett Bordeaux pinned Dana Brooke with a Back-to-Belly Piledriver. During the match we also saw Shayna Baszler run in and attack Zelina, and Aja Kong also attack Scarlett. - Big Swole & Dana Brooke showed excellent chemistry teaming together (rating: 51) The Sisterhood - Shayna Baszler & Aja Kong continue to attack Zelina and Scarlett Bordeaux - ... here comes Alexa Bliss! - Alexa Bliss inteferred and helped the Dark Sisterhood on RAW during their match against Hate Crew - It looks like she's here to help them again! - Could Alexa Bliss be ready to leave Bray Wyatt behind and join the Dark Sisterhood? (rating: 59) Did ya mean it? - Drew McIntyre and Sheamus are backstage - Drew doesn't look to pleased - He wants to know if Sheamus meant what he said on RAW - Does he really think McIntyre can't beat Lashley - Sheamus says Lashley is a tough fella and McIntyre will have to be at his best (rating: 84) Ikemen Jiro vs. Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Mansoor vs. Mustafa Ali In a decent match, Mustafa Ali defeated Brian Pillman Jr., Mansoor and Ikemen Jiro in 10:16 when Mustafa Ali pinned Ikemen Jiro with a Reverse 450. In terms of in-ring work, Mustafa Ali was head and shoulders above everyone else. - A high flying showcase of the WWE Cruiserweight division - The announcing team did a good job of putting over the Cruiserweights (rating: 60) Backstage - Johnny Gargano has been watching the Cruiserweight match - WWE Cruiserweight champion Ricochet walks up behind him and pats him on the back - Hey, buddy... thanks for what you did for me on RAW - Gargano looks sick - Gargano's plan to get an angry Roman Reigns to destroy Ricochet on RAW backfired - Gargano says this isn't over (rating: 62) Retirement - Natalya is talking to Tamina backstage - Jamie Hayter walks past them on the way to the ring... and stops - She's a big fan of retro wrestlers like Natalya and Tamina! - Jamie Hayter is going to dedicate her match tonight to Natalya and Tamina and all the other old girls that came before her - Hayter walks off to the ring leaving Natalya mouthing 'old girls?' to Tamina (rating: 43) Jamie Hayter vs. Nikki Cross In a decent match, Jamie Hayter defeated Nikki Cross in 8:25 by pinfall with a Curb Stomp. - Commentary team talked about Hayter and how last week she said she wasn't waiting around anymore - They talked about her apparent disrespect for older wrestlers (rating: 58) FIGHT ME - After the break - BROCK LESNAR!!! - Lesnar's music plays, he comes storming out dragging... Ludwig Kaiser by the collar?! - Lesnar has dragged Ludwig all the way in to the ring - He's calling Gunther out - Lesnar wants Gunther out here right now or he's going to start pounding Ludwig into a bloody pulp - Lesnar came out of this looking excellent - Ludwig was very underwhelming (rating: 67) Gunther - Gunther's music plays - He slowly makes his way to the ring looking unconcerned that Brock Lesnar has Ludwig held in a submission hold - Gunther walks around the ring a few times as if inspect Lesnar's hold - Brock Lesnar has had enough - Nobody walks away from Brock Lesnar. Nobody. I offered you the greatest fight you'll ever get in your career and you walk away. - What are you Gunther... a chicken? - Gunther stops walking and briefly smiles - Chicken? No. But what I see before me is a hound pleading with it's master to play with him - Lesnar says Gunther better accept the fight he or he'll break Ludwig - Gunther nods. As you please. - Gunther dismisses Brock Lesnar and walks away! - He's left Ludwig at Brock Lesnar's mercy!! - Gunther came across well - Ludwig looked lost out there - Gunther worked the crowd well (rating: 75) Drew McIntyre vs. Bobby Lashley In an exceptional match, Bobby Lashley defeated Drew McIntyre in 19:56 by pinfall with a Spear following interference from Sheamus. - Just as Drew McIntyre looked to be getting the upper hand and lining up the Claymore, Sheamus interferred (rating: 81) Why? - As the show goes off the air Drew McIntyre is hanging over the ropes looking at Sheamus - Why? - Sheamus shrugs it looks like he's saying he had to? (rating: 72) Overall Rating: 85

WWE RAW Monday, Week 2, March 2023 6,000 @ North West The Empress and her People - The show opens with The Empress Asuka's music playing and making her way to the ring - She's here to remind everyone she is the WWE's Undisputed Champion - But she also is a giving Empress and wants to give back to her People - Asuka has noticed how the fans have been cheering for and singing along to Maki Itoh's entrance - Asuka LOVES J-Pop, she LOVES Maki Itoh - So tonight Asuka will give the people what they want... MAKI ITOH vs. Asuka for the WWE Women's title! - Asuka came out of this looking excellent - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 70) J-Pop Time - Maki Itoh sings and performs her entrance music as she makes her way to the ring - Cute J-Pop emojis flood the screen and she hands out several bits of her own merchandise, including a cute looking Maki Itoh plushie - Asuka is clapping along and looking happy in the ring (rating: 61) WWE Women's Title: Maki Itoh vs. Asuka (c) In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Asuka defeated Maki Itoh in 14:31 by submission with an Asuka Lock. Asuka makes defence number seven of the WWE Women's title. - This match got the crowd hotter (rating: 78) Asuka Attacks - Asuka continues to attack Maki Itoh - Shouting in Japanese at her - There's the occassional shout in English that she's THE EMPRESS - THE PEOPLE LOVE ONLY HER - Rhea Ripley's music plays as she runs down for the save! - Asuka slips out of the ring - Rhea helps Maki Itoh (rating: 70) Backstage - Stephanie McMahon and Triple H are in an office backstage talking about Wrestlemania 39 - There's a knock at the door... it's Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn - They're here to talk about Wrestlemania - KO and Sami don't have anything booked yet and want to know what the plans are - Step says they could fight each other - KO and Sami look at each other and laugh, that's not going to happen - There's another knock on the door... it's Edge - He pushes past KO and Sami, he demands to know what's happening at Wrestlemania, he's the Last True Hero of the Attitude Era - If Steph and Hunter don't have plans for him, he'll walk - Triple H begins to tell the 3 Canadians that sometimes you've got to make your own matches, what have they done lately other than bitch and moan about Goldberg? - Before they can answer Seth Rollins comes swooping through the door humming his own theme song - Steph and Triple H look at each other - Triple H begins to talk, but stops as Finn Balor walks in - Triple H begins to talk again and stops one final time looking up at the returning Braun Strowman - OK HERE'S THE DEAL - Triple H says its 4 weeks till Wrestlemania there's still plenty of time for WWE Superstars to show why they should be on the Biggest Show of Them All - Steph announces that they might get a chance to qualify for the returning Money in the Bank match at Wrestlemania - All the wrestles look at each other and look pleased - OK, now shoo, go on scat before I get a spray gun or something, jeez (rating: 81) The New Day - Xavier Woods, Kofi Kingston and R-Truth make their way to the ring - Gone are the bright colourful, anime style clothing of The New Day - Xavier Woods says he's thought long about what he said last week and maybe he made a mistake - Kofi agrees, yeah maybe we should give Omos and MACE their title shot at the WWE World Tag Team Titles - Truth feels bad, we didn't mean to hurt your feelings, we just clownin' - They all agree, we're sowwy - WWE US Champion Omos and MACE make their way to the ring - Xavier offers him a title shot at the WWE World Tag Team Titles... IF Omos will give him a shot at the WWE US Title... RIGHT NOW - MACE doesn't think this is a good idea - Omos isn't sure, look... I'm a nice guy, I'll give anyone a shot who asks, but you really upset me - We said we're sorry, but look to make you feel better its all in this contract - Omos looks over the contract... and agrees! (rating: 60) WWE US Title Match: Xavier Woods vs. Omos (c) In a bout that had good heat but sub-par wrestling, Xavier Woods defeated Omos in 10:30 by pinfall after using a foreign object. During the match we also saw Kofi Kingston distract Omos, and R-Truth also distract Omos. Xavier Woods wins the WWE United States title. - Woods grabbed the win after hitting Omos with a flying forearm smash - Omos seemed off his game - Xavier Woods and Omos don't seem to click and it made for an awkward bout (rating: 49) The Reveal - Xavier Woods, Kofi Kingston and R-Truth celebrate the victory - Xavier Woods is mocking Omos as he slowly reveals... - He had a part of the broken trombone hidden in his arm sleeve! - HE USED IT DURING THE FLYING FOREARM SMASH! - Kofi mocks being surprised - The trio leave laughing and celebrating (rating: 62) The Bloodline - The Bloodline are grouped around Roman Reigns - He isn't happy, over the last few weeks the Bloodline have had defeat after defeat and even lost the WWE World Tag Team Titles - Roman says tonight he's going to show them how it's done and get the Bloodline back into winning ways before Wrestlemania - Jey asks about The Rock being here tonight - Roman doesn't care, tonight is about Roman Reigns winning and restoring The Bloodline's dominance (rating: 84) The Empire - Hate Crew (Shayna Baszler and Aja Kong) are backstage with the Empress Asuka - They're talking about the Sisterhood's blood bath attack on them last week - Tonight they have a tag team match and Asuka considers them traitors - She orders that her warriors remove them from her realm - Asuka was a real star in this segment - Shayna Baszler was terrible, with no script to follow she was a mess (rating: 57) Sisterhood vs. Hate Crew In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Queen Zelina and Scarlett Bordeaux defeated Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler in 10:21 when Scarlett Bordeaux pinned Aja Kong with a Diving Crossbody. During the match we also had Alexa Bliss distract Aja Kong. Shayna Baszler carried the match in terms of in-ring performance. Aja Kong was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. - A low paced match, which gave the crowd a chance to settle and breath (rating: 54) ... I know just the guy - Roman Reigns is sitting backstage - Johnny Gargano walks up to him with a smile - I heard you were looking for a fight tonight - Roman Reigns looks at Gargano with a raised eyebrow - Not me! But I know just the guy... - ... who could he mean?! (rating: 68) Backstage - Drew and Sheamus are chatting about some of their favourite moments - Reminding each other of the time they hit some big old kicks to the face - Lashley slams his hand into the table, so you think you can do better? - Drew looks up, who me?! Aye, aye I could do better - Sheamus agrees, aye he could - Lashley says its on at Smackdown - Lashley walks away - Drew and Sheamus look at each other - Sheamus finally says... you're gonna get your arsed kicked - Drew isn't impressed, shut up y'wee Ned - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 85) The Street Profits vs. The Bollywood Boyz In a decent match, The Street Profits defeated The Bollywood Boyz in 14:41 when Montez Ford pinned Samir Singh with a Frog Splash. In terms of in-ring work, Montez Ford was head and shoulders above everyone else. (rating: 58) Brock Lesnar - Lesnar makes his way to the ring - He seems rather cheerful - Lesnar says he's been wondering for a while about Wrestlemania and finally realised last week who it is he wants to pound... Gunther - That's why Lesnar is so happy - Gunther's music plays - He makes his way to the ring and stands face-to-face with Lesnar - Lesnar is still all smiles, look here he is... what a guy... proudly craps all over American wrestling and still has the balls to stand in the ring with a NCAA Heavyweight Champion, WWE Champion, UFC Champion and one of the greatest wrestlers AMERICA has ever seen - That takes guts - Gunther doesn't seem impressed, he grabs the mic from Lesnar - American wrestling is inferior and impractical, wrestling was created and perfected in Europe and elevated by a Euroean.. by ME - GUNTHER - Lesnar laughs and looks impressed - He grabs the mic from Gunther - Then why don't you prove it, Ring General, at Wrestlemania - Gunther gives Lesnar a dismissive look... and leaves..? - Lesnar is calling after Gunther... Hey, don't you walk away... prove what you've got! (rating: 80) KENTA vs. Roderick Strong In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, KENTA defeated Roderick Strong in 15:11 by pinfall with a KENTA Combo Into Busaiku Knee Kick. - Daniel Bryan was on commentary - He talked about the 'Best in the World' tag and is looking forward to Wrestlemania - The commentary team are talking about how Roderick Strong has been asking WWE Board of Directors for more chances to wrestle on the main roster - KENTA came across really strong in this match - Another 'Steal the Show' type of match up from KENTA (rating: 70) I'm impressed... - After the match Daniel Bryan climbs into the ring - I'm impressed KENTA that was really good... you're good - I've known Roderick for years and he's no slouch, but you really put it too him - KENTA stands listening - But you know... I'll one better and beat Roderick Strong on Smackdown in under 15 minutes - KENTA doesn't seem impressed - Roderick Strong grabs the mic - YOU'RE ON! - Daniel Bryan was a real star in this segment - Roderick Strong performed poorly in this segment (rating: 70) Family Heritage - After the break we're back with CODY RHODES! - We haven't seen Cody since brutal match at Fastlane, he's still bruised and patched up - He's carrying a burlap bag - Bray, you beat the crap out of me at Fastlane - But it also got me thinking, I'm a RHODES and we can take a beating - We can take whipping and we can give a beating too - and I know you know that Dusty Rhodes was famous for some of those brutal matches - Cody Rhodes pulls a bullrope out of the bag - This cowbell sound became a little synonymous with the Rhodes name - You've had your fun, how about at Wrestlemania we do this THE RHODES WAY (rating: 66) Roman Reigns vs. Ricochet In an exceptional match, Ricochet defeated Roman Reigns in 20:30 by pinfall while using the ropes for leverage. During the match we also had The Rock distract Reigns. - Ricochet grabbed the win after The Rock's music played distracted Roman Reigns - The Rock stood at the entrance way as Roman Reigns looked at him - Ricochet rolled Roman up and used the ropes for leverage - The Rock stood looking very pleased with himself as the show went off the air (rating: 60) Overall Rating: 73

- Babatunde's contract with the WWE has expired and has been released - Scott Steiner to retire in 3 months - Dan Severn to retire in 3 months - AEW Revolution 2023 was held over the weekend, the star of the show was Rey Fenix - Adam Page remains the AEW World Champion - Daniel Bryan was in the main event for AEW's Revolution - Despite appearing on Smackdown on Friday, Jamie Hayter appeared at Revolution defeating Willow Nightingale in a tables match - Christopher Daniels and Malakai Black also appeared on the show - It is uncertain what their current contract situations are with AEW and WWE - Although it would be unusually for them not to have an exclusive deal with WWE at the very least - James Drake, better known as Drake in NXT, has shattered their knee and will be out for over a year

WWE SMACKDOWN Live from North West America 5,400 KENTA vs. Rey Mysterio In a bout that had good heat and decent wrestling, KENTA defeated Rey Mysterio in 13:51 by pinfall with a KENTA Combo Into Busaiku Knee Kick. - Strong start to Smackdown as KENTA and Rey Mysterio go all out in an attempt to steal the show early - This match got the show off to a strong start - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 71) Backstage with the Bangers - Drew McIntyre and Sheamus are chatting about Fastlane - Sheamus seems crestfallen having lost to Bobby Lashley - McIntyre tells him it was a good fight, a real proper fight - he should be proud - Sheamus perks up and agrees - The drink their drinks and look happy - ... but McIntyre says he would have won as Sheamus drinks - Side eye - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 80) Dana Brooke vs. Jamie Hayter In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Jamie Hayter defeated Dana Brooke in 7:48 by pinfall with a Falcon Arrow. (rating: 50) No More Waiting - The British wrestler Jamie Hayter says she's fed up with waiting for chances - She signed with the WWE in December and this is only her second time appearing on Smackdown or RAW - Its time to retire some bitches (rating: 31) The Empress - Backstage the WWE Undisputed and Women's Champion Asuka is having an interview - She says she'll be watching the main event tonight between Rhea Ripley and Shayna Baszler - She won't get involved as she knows her warrior can handle herself - The Empress is always watching (rating: 73) WWE Cruiserweight Title: Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Cedric Alexander vs. Ultimo Dragon vs. Ricochet (c) In a decent match, Ricochet defeated Cedric Alexander, Ultimo Dragon and Brian Pillman Jr. in 12:06 when Ricochet pinned Brian Pillman Jr. with a 630° Splash. Ricochet makes defence number one of the WWE Cruiserweight title. In terms of in-ring work, Ricochet was head and shoulders above everyone else. Ultimo Dragon was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. - Ricochet's new move is over with the crowd (rating: 58) Nattie talks to Tamina - Backstage Natalya is talking to Tamina - She's talking about her match with Raquel Rodriguez - Nattie wonders if this new kid Jamie Hayter has a point -- maybe it is time to retire - Tamina says nah, we still have life in us yet (rating: 46) Congratulations - Ricochet is in the lockerroom - A smug looking Johnny Gargano walks up to him and slaps him on the back - Another fine show from our WWE Cruiserweight champion, trying to steal the show every night - Ricochet says he isn't trying... he is - Gargano smiles and nods... is he plotting something? - It doesn't look like its over between these two (rating: 64) Natalya vs. Raquel Rodriguez In a decent match, Raquel Rodriguez defeated Natalya in 10:20 by pinfall with a Tequila Shot. - Crowd seem bored of Natalya (rating: 52) Becky will be watching - #1 Contender for the WWE Undisputed title Becky Lynch is backstage - She says she'll be watching Rhea and Shayna later tonight too - But she won't get involved, she knows Rhea can handle herself - Becky's attention is entirely on Asuka and Wrestlemania (rating: 55) Rhea Ripley - Rhea Ripley comes into frame - Becky Lynch was the special guest referee in Rhea's match against Asuka at Fastlane - There's a bit of tension between Rhea and Becky - Rhea says it doesn't matter who does or doesn't get involved in her match tonight - Anyone who gets into that ring is going to get a fist full of Rhea Ripley - Becky tells Rhea to calm her boots - Rhea steps closer to Lynch - That number one contendership you have, you should be grateful I can't rip it from you - Lynch squares up closer - There's nothing stopping you from trying... (rating: 83) Rhea Ripley vs. Shayna Baszler In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Rhea Ripley defeated Shayna Baszler in 27:39 by pinfall with a Riptide. - During the match Asuka comes down to ringside and tries to interfere - Becky Lynch soon appears and brawls with Asuka - It seems to distract Rhea for a moment, but she's able to regain her focus (rating: 71) Crimson Lights - The arena goes dark - A few seconds later a single crimson spotlight shines on Shayna Baszler - ... she's covered in... is that blood?! - Scarlet Bordeaux and Zelina are standing in the ring either side of Baszler - They hit her with their double team move THE SISTER KICK! (rating: 64) Overall Rating: 73

WWE RAW Live from North West, USA - ... IF YA SMELL! - The show opens with The Rock... well kinda - He's live via video feed from LA - I know, I know... you wanted to see The Rock - The Rock explains that he couldn't be at Fastlane last night as it was in Canada and The Rock doesn't have time for that... he jokes, he jokes - The Rock will be at RAW next week and every week leading up to Wrestlemania in The Rock's home away from home HOLLYWOOD - The Rock spends some time talking about Roman Reigns and the battle for the Head of the Table, the Tribal Chief and respect of the Anoa'i family - For all the titles The Rock has won over the years - WWE, World Heavyweight... The People's Champ... being recognised by my family as the real tribal chief means a lot to me - And I know the Millions... haha and millions of The Rock's fans feel the same way, we all know that Cousin Roman is over stepping his role here - Got the crowd hot - Strong start to the show (rating: 95) Daniel Bryan vs. Shelton Benjamin In a superb match, Daniel Bryan defeated Shelton Benjamin in 14:41 by pinfall with a Running Knee. - Daniel Bryan put on a clinic - It looks like he really means it when he said he's back to wrestle - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 76) Becky gets Asuka at Wrestlemania - Becky Lynch makes her way to the ring - She wants to talk to Rhea Ripley - Asuka instead comes out - Becky looks happy - Becky says she was happy to wait till Wrestlemania, but if Asuka wants to fight now... - Asuka laughs, no no no you made a big mistake - Becky Lynch came out of this looking excellent - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 92) Piper Niven vs. Hikaru Shida In a decent match, Hikaru Shida defeated Piper Niven in 12:50 by pinfall with a Tamashii no Three Count. WWE Hall of Fame 2023 Inductee Announcement - Bull Nakano is the first to be announced (rating: 68) Cut backstage - New Intercontinental champion AJ Styles is walking backstage with the title over his shoulder (rating: 67) ATTACK! - Suddenly Logan Paul, Theory and Matt Riddle jump push the camera out of the way - We can see from the camera's prone position on the floor they're attacking AJ Styles! - Logan Paul grabs the IC Title (rating: 81) Logan Paul mocks AJ - Logan Paul is very pleased with himself - You might have won this at Fastlane, AJ, but right now... it belongs to me - Theory looks confused, I thought we were doing this so I could have it back - Nah, brah, I'll look after it for now, don't worry - Theory looked good - Logal Paul's new catchphrase is getting a reaction (rating: 85) Its time to talk about Bray - Backstage Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan are discussing Bray Wyatt - Alexa does not look happy - Liv says its time they move on, this isn't the same Bray Wyatt - Alexa doesn't agree, she still believes in Bray Wyatt - Liv sighs and says Alexa will have to do it on her own - The performance of Alexa Bliss - Liv Morgan's new catchphrase is getting a reaction (rating: 70) No Title Shot - Xaiver Woods, Kofi Kingston and R-Truth are hanging out backstage - They're the new WWE World Tag Team Champions - Xavier Woods seems to have parts of the blue trombone inside the sleeves of his outfit - Truth says he cannot believe how easily Omos and MACE let them have that title shot - Xavier is laughing, and to think they're probably sitting there waiting for us to go thank them and hand them a title shot out of the kindness of our hearts - Kofi laughs, no more favours, no more little good guy New Days - WE LOOKING AFTER OURSELVES - Xavier Woods played the crowd well - R-Truth was masterful at getting a reaction from the crowd (rating: 53) Viking Raiders vs. Dusk In a decent match, Dusk defeated Viking Raiders in 15:30 when Xavier Woods pinned Ivar with a Midnight Hour. (rating: 66) Mace isn't happy - After the match Mace is at the entrance ramp - He's not happy that Xavier and Kofi played him and OMOS - Mace says OMOS is upset, as he respected and trusted The New Day - Xavier, Kofi and R-Truth laugh it off as the push past (rating: 50) It's J-POP TIME! - Maki Itoh makes her J-Pop entrance to the ring, singing her own theme song - Screen is covered in cute Japense emojis and stuff - Crowd really in to Maki Itoh (rating: 70) Maki Itoh vs. Ava Raine In a bout that didn't have much heat and terrible wrestling, Maki Itoh defeated Ava Raine in 9:46 by pinfall with an Ito Special. (rating: 52) Steiner talks about Fastlane - Rex Steiner's music hits as he makes his way to the ring - At Fastlane Rex Steiner and Goldberg beat Edge and Kevin Owens in a TLC - Steiner claimed Goldberg's bounty contract, but then slammed Goldberg through a table - Steiner stomps around the ring as he grabs a mic - AT FASTLANE I DID SOMETHING THAT MY UNCLE AND MY DAD WISHED THEY COULD STILL DO TODAY - I SLAMMED GOLDBERG THROUGH A TABLE - AND I'D DO IT AGAIN - Goldberg's music plays - Goldberg and Steiner are face-to-face - Goldberg wants to know why Steiner did it - GOLDBERG... ITS SIMPLE, YOU'RE A BITCH - YOU COME UP TO ME, A STEINER, A GENETIC FREAK OF THE NEW BREED, AND OFFER TO TEACH ME ABOUT WRESTLING?! - YOU'RE A FORMER FOOTBALL PLAYER THAT'S LIVED OFF THE BACK OF AN OVER INFLATED WINSTREAK FROM THE 1990s! - I OWN YOU, I HAVE YOUR BOUNTY CONTRACT, I DON'T WANT ANYONE ELSE TRYING TO CLAIM IT OR PUT YOU OUT BECAUSE... - I WANT TO BE THE GUY THAT GETS TO SAY HE ENDED BILL GOLDBERG'S CAREER - I'M DOING THIS FOR ME, I'M DOING THIS FOR STEINERS, AND I'M DOING THIS FOR ALL THE GUYS AND GALS YOU'VE STEPPED OVER EACH AND EVERY TIME YOU'VE CAME BACK TO WRESTLING - Goldberg remains silent - Steiner and Goldberg remain locked in on each other - Goldberg grabs the mic, his hand clenched around Steiner's - Well, kid, I guess I know who's next... - It's like a mid-air arm wrestle as the pair strain over the micorphone - Finally, Goldberg lets his grip go and walks away - Steiner played the crowd well - Goldberg's new catchphrase is over (rating: 80) MACE & Omos vs. Happy Corbin and Babatunde In a bout that had good heat and decent wrestling, MACE & Omos defeated Happy Corbin and Babatunde in 12:51 when Omos pinned Babatunde with a Claw. - Elements of Omos' frusration and anger seemed to boil over into the match - A few times he didn't hear the ref count... or ignored it - Mace had to ask him to let go of the claw grip on Babatunde (rating: 43) The Bloodline Responde - Backstage Roman Reigns is giving Jey Uso some advice before his match against Gunther - Reigns says its time for The Bloodline to regain some of its composure - Its time for The Bloodline to regain the gold before they head into Wrestlemania - Together they're stronger - They're family - Don't fail me, Jey - Roman Reigns looked like a real star - Solo Sikoa looked lost (rating: 89) Jey Uso vs. Gunther In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Gunther defeated Jey Uso in 28:04 by pinfall with a Powerbomb. (rating: 56) ... HERE COMES THE PAIN! - Brock Lesnar's music plays - He hasn't been since the Royal Rumble - He's heading straight for the ring with a smile on his face (rating: 70) Staredown - Lesnar paces around the ring for a while - Gunther stands in the middle watching him - Finally the pair go face-to-face as RAW goes off the air (rating: 74) Overall Rating: 74

- Rush has quit AEW - Bray Wyatt's new comeback spot - Paige wins her legal battle against the WWE for wrongful termination and is awarded $218,400 - NXT held the 2023 Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic, it was won by LA Knight & Jordan Devlin, while Mandy Rose and Cora Jade claimed the women's title

WWE Fastlane 2023 Sunday Week 4 February 2023 LIVE FROM ONTARIO! (36,000 attendance) - Show opens with a promo hyping up the WWE Intercontinental Title match between AJ Styles and Theory - It highlights the history of the Ultimate X Match (footage courtesy of TNA) - With narration from AJ Styles, Christopher Daniels, Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin (rating: 63) Ultimate X WWE Intercontinental Title: AJ Styles vs. Theory (c) In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, AJ Styles defeated Theory in an Ultimate X match in 10:24 when AJ Styles retrieved the item. AJ Styles wins the WWE Intercontinental title. - AJ Styles rolled back the years - Austin Theory kept up with him step - The crowd ate it up (rating: 68) Banger - Backstage Drew McIntyre is standing between Bobby Lashley and Sheamus - McIntyre says he knows both fellas will slug it out, and the best thing about it... is he'll get to face the winner (rating: 79) Unhappy - Omos is telling Mace about how upset he is that Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods would decieve them like that on Smackdown - Mace says that everyone can be taken at face value - Omos can't believe that the New Day could be like that - R-Truth, Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods come into frame looking very pleased with themselves - Truth says it hurts don't it that people could like to you like that RIGHT TO YOUR FACE - Xavier laughs and says it didn't hurt them - Kofi says nah, it actually helped us (rating: 58) WWE World Tag Team Titles: The New Day vs. Samoan Hit Squad (c) In a decent match, The New Day defeated Samoan Hit Squad in 14:46 when Xavier Woods pinned Jacob Fatu by using underhanded tactics. The New Day win the WWE World Tag Team titles. In terms of in-ring work, Jacob Fatu was head and shoulders above everyone else. (rating: 66) New Day Celebrate - Kofi, Xavier and R-Truth celebrate the tag team titles - Camera cuts to backstage where a disappointed Mace and OMOS are watching (rating: 55) Sheamus vs. Bobby Lashley Video Package - A video plays retelling the recent feud between Sheamus and Bobby Lashley - It shows highlights of their individual matches, focusing on the throws and slams of Lashley and the brawling of Sheamus (rating: 71) Bobby Lashley vs. Sheamus In an exceptional match, Bobby Lashley defeated Sheamus in 17:44 by submission with The Hurt Lock. - Sometimes two big guys just going at each other is incredible to watch (rating: 76) TLC Video Package - Tonight Bill Goldberg's career could come to an end - TLC: Tables, Ladders & Chairs - The video shows how each one of the items has been used against either Rex, Goldberg, Edge or Kevin Owens over the last month - The video ends focusing on Bill Goldberg's bounty contract, which will be suspended above the ring (rating: 67) TLC Match: Bill Goldberg & Rex Steiner vs. Edge & Kevin Owens In a bout that had fantastic heat and good wrestling, Bill Goldberg and Rex Steiner defeated Edge and Kevin Owens in a Tables, Ladders & Chairs match in 15:22 when Rex Steiner retrieved Bill Goldberg's contract (rating: 69) Celebrating - Goldberg and Steiner celebrate - Steiner has secured the bounty contract and secured Goldberg's tenure in the WWE for a while longer - Rex Steiner puts Goldberg through a table! - He rips the bounty contract up and scatters over Goldberg's prone body..! (rating: 73) Dark Sisterhood - Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan are escorted to the ring by The Cardinal - Black says that this is the chance RIGHT HERE for Bray Wyatt to show he cares - All he has to do is come down and stand at ringside for Alexa and Liv's big tag title match - Black swears an oath that The Cardinal will stand at ringside and will not interfere or stop Bray (rating: 61) WWE Women's Tag Team Titles: Alexa Bliss & Liv Morgan vs. Shayna Baszler & Aja Kong In a decent match, Shayna Baszler and Aja Kong defeated Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan in 14:51 when Shayna Baszler pinned Alexa Bliss with a Knockout Punch. Shayna Baszler and Aja Kong make defence number three of the WWE Women's Tag Team titles. Aja Kong was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. (rating: 48) Bray Wyatt and Cody Rhodes Video Package - A promo video plays highlighting the history between Bray and Cody - It tells the story of two families similar yet so different (rating: 69) Entrance - Bray makes a special entrance (rating: 74) Bray Wyatt vs. Cody Rhodes In a bout that had fantastic heat and good wrestling, Windham defeated Cody Rhodes in 12:50 by pinfall with a Standing Senton Splash following interference from Bo Wyatt. - Chaos and Mayhem - Bray debuted a new comeback spot (rating: 67) Backstage - Becky Lynch says she's going to call tonight's main event fairly even if she has a little history with all three women (rating: 75) Pure Wrestling Competition: Gunther vs. Shinsuke Nakamura In a bout that had great wrestling and good heat, Gunther defeated Shinsuke Nakamura in 30:24 by pinfall with a Powerbomb. - Gunther put on a wrestling fest mixing heavy strikes, grappling and throws (rating: 76) Face-to-face - Gunther and Nakamura shakehands (rating: 71) Main Event Video Package (rating: 69) WWE Women's Title: Rhea Ripley vs. Bayley vs. Asuka (c) w/ Becky Lynch as special guest referee In a bout that had fantastic heat and good wrestling, Asuka defeated Rhea Ripley and Bayley in 25:20 when Asuka pinned Bayley with a Spin Kick. Asuka makes defence number six of the WWE Women's title. Asuka carried the match in terms of in-ring performance. (rating: 74) ... and still! - Asuka celebrates (rating: 74) Tensions - Becky Lynch and Rhea Ripley are stare at each other - Before both turning to look at Asuka (rating: 70) Overall Rating: 74

WWE SmackDown! Friday, Week 4 February 2023 Live from Hershey Centre (5,400) Wasted Career - The show opens with AJ Styles already in the ring - The ring has a somewhat unfamiliar set up to it... for WWE at least - AJ Styles talks about... Ultimate X - Ultimate X, a match he helped make famous, a match that tests a wrestlers strength, agility and bravery - No ladders. Just you and your desire to climb up and crawl across a steel wire crossing over the ring to grab the title suspended in the middle - Something AJ knows Theory wouldn't be able to achieve - WWE Intercontinental champion Austin Theory's music plays - Is this your plan, AJ? To bore me to death with your life story until you get another title shot? - AJ laughs, that's just it Theory... this isn't my life story, this is every thing I've done by the time I was your age. What are you achievements? - Theory holds up the IC title... - AJ applauds, just another name in a long list of names who have won it. What will you be remembered for? Hanging around with a 37 year old guy who wears a onesie and rides a scooter to the ring? I've shown you everything I have achieved by the time I was your age, in what you're saying is a wasted career. Titles, opponants and matches I've made famous... - AJ Styles did a masterful job improvising interactions with the crowd - Theory did not do well without a script to follow - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 76) YOU Made Famous? - Disposable Teens plays as NXT: Japan Intercontinental Champion Christopher Daniels makes his way to the ring - He looks angry about something as he grabs the mic from Theory and steps in front of AJ Styles - Wait wait wait, did I just hear you say matches YOU made famous?! - Maybe you're forgotting a few things AJ, but it was ME who made YOU famous, it was me who made the Ultimate X match famous, it was me who elevated the entire indie scene and created the door for people like you to step through - AJ laughs - Theory grabs the mic from Christopher Daniels - Hey, don't you know who I am? - Daniels grabs the mic back... No, now shut up. The adults are talking. - Daniels, look, you're good at what you did -- - ... did?! I still do 'it', AJ. Unlike you, I have a title around my waist - Theory grabs the microphone back, me too - AJ and Daniels tell Theory to shut up - Theory snaps, right, that's it. You two will respect me. I'll show you a career highlight match this Sunday at FASTLANE. In that ring with this Ultimate X set up. - Theory drops the mic and walks off celebrating - AJ Styles and Christopher Daniels exchange looks... was there a smile? - AJ Styles did a masterful job of improvising interactions with the crowd - Theory worked the crowd well - Christopher Daniels did a masterful job of improvising interactions with the crowd - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 80) But wait..! - Theory's exit is interrupted by WWE Cruiserweight Champion Ricochet and the #1 Contender for the title Johnny Gargano - Ricochet says his match with Gargano is billed next, but all this talk of great career matches and memorable moments got them talking - Gargano says he's spent his fair time on the indie scene before making it to the WWE and never had the chance to share the ring with Christopher Daniels - Ricochet says how about tonight 2v2; AJ Styles & Ricochet vs. Christopher Daniels and Johnny Gargano - Gargano says how about tonight... we steal the show? - Theory says he'll steal the show - Everyone shouts SHUT UP (rating: 64) AJ Styles & Ricochet vs. Johnny Gargano & Christopher Daniels In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, AJ Styles and Ricochet defeated Johnny Gargano and Christopher Daniels in 9:37 when AJ Styles pinned Johnny Gargano with a Phenomenal Forearm following botched interference by Theory. In terms of in-ring work, Ricochet was head and shoulders above everyone else. Christopher Daniels was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. - This really was an attempt to steal the show - Christopher Daniels tried his best to roll back the years, but couldn't keep up with the pace - Frustrated by being left out of the match and the increasing reactions from the crowd, Theory eventually grabbed the IC title and tried to plant AJ Styles from behind - AJ leap frogged over Gargano who tried to shoulder tackle AJ as he prepared for the Phenomenal Forearm, Gargano got cracked on the head with the IC title instead - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 78) Stephanie McMahon - Stephanie McMahon announces that tonight's main event will be Bayley, Rhea Ripley and Becky Lynch teaming up against Asuka, Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler in a preview of the Triple Threat match at FASTLANE (rating: 60) Creating a Match - We're backstage as The New Day approach MACE and Omos - MACE and Omos are the #1 Contenders for the WWE World Tag Team Titles against The Samoan Hit Squad at FASTLANE - Xavier Woods is asking if MACE and Omos will defend that honor against them tonight - MACE isn't happy, he says he and Omos earned that - OMOS holds up a big hand, relax buddy, let's give our friends here a match. It'll be practice and besides, it's the New Day, they're good guys... like us! - Let's do this the New Day way... - Kofi hands Xavier Wood his Trombone - Woods blasts out the NEW DAY ROCKS toot as they leave - MACE isn't too sure about this, but Omos says The New Day needed this, they looked so sad lately (rating: 62) MACE & Omos vs. The New Day In a decent match, The New Day defeated MACE & Omos in 12:32 when Xavier Woods pinned MACE with a handful of tights. - As the match progressed, The New Day started to show more and more underhanded tactics to try and win - Eventually Xavier Woods took advantage of an R-Truth distraction with the trombone to roll up MACE with a handful of tights - The New Day are the new #1 Contenders for the WWE World Tag Team Titles (rating: 55) Bad Day - The New Day quickly leave the ring and celebrate with R-Truth - Truth says this is the beginning of a New Dawn, The New Day is over - Kofi tells the WWE Universe they can forget about the happy, joyful, comedy act that take every defeat on the chin - Truth says where did that get you, brother? - NO WHERE - Xavier Woods holds up the trombone, and as for this? - Woods starts to break it up - Kofi continues to talk, You're looking at three men who have been treat with nothing but contempt for over a decade - We have busted ourselves, out performed ourselves, taken every stupid idea thrown at us and made it work better than anyone else could have imagined - Truth says AND WHERE DID THAT GET YOU, BROTHER?! - NO WHERE - Xavier Woods says THE NEW DAY IS DEAD (rating: 60) A Match for FASTLANE - Edge and Kevin Owens are in the ring - They want to talk about Rex Steiner, Goldberg and Fastlane - Over the last few weeks things have been... escalating... - First Chairs (Kevin Owens throws a chair into the ring) - then Tables (Kevin Owens slides a table into the ring) - then a Ladder (Kevin Owens slides a ladder into the ring) - its almost like fate was screaming out for something - TLC Match - Kevin Owens challenges Steiner and Goldberg - Edge and Kevin Owens vs. Rex Steiner and Goldberg in a TABLE, LADDERS and CHAIRS Match THIS SUNDAY at FASTLANE - No DQ, no tagging, just straight up carnage - Goldberg and Steiner make an appearance - Before Goldberg can speak, Steiner accepts - Goldberg looks a little apprehensive - Steiner says YOU CAN THROW ALL THE FURNITURE IN THE WORLD INTO THIS MATCH, HELL I DON'T CARE IF THIS IS HAMMERBARN BRAWL - Goldberg tells Steiner hold up - Goldberg will accept this match under one condition; when Goldberg and Steiner win, Edge and Owens move on. No more bounty, no more cheap shots, no more chances. Goldberg wants to be able to continue the rest of his career in peace without all these added distractions - Edge and Owens look at each other and smile, they accept (rating: 80) Best in the World - A training video shows KENTA practicing his kicks and moves - Its interrupting by Daniel Bryan - That's not how you do it... you do it like this! - Daniel Bryan hits the same strike KENTA just did on the training partner - KENTA pushes Bryan out of the way... NO ITS LIKE THIS - There's a back and forth between the two wrestlers trying to hit the same move to perfection ont he training partner - Video ends with them starring face-to-face (rating: 62) Happy Corbin vs. Shinsuke Nakamura In a bout that had good heat and decent wrestling, Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Happy Corbin in 15:23 by pinfall with a Kinshasa. - Commentary team talk about Nakamura vs. Gunther at FASTLANE - Its currently 3-1 in Nakamura's favour (rating: 58) Bang Bros - Sheamus and Drew McIntyre are backstage, they're talking about Bobby Lashley - Sheamus says he'll fight till the cows come home at FASTLANE, there's no way Lashley will pin him - McIntyre agrees (rating: 78) Backstage Brawl - Out of nowhere Lashley comes flying into frame - He spears McIntyre into Sheamus - McIntyre seems hurt - Lashley and Sheamus get back up and start to brawl backstage - Eventually officials seperate them (rating: 83) The Empire (Asuka, Aja Kong & Shayna Baszler) vs. Becky Lynch, Rhea Ripley & Bayley In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Becky Lynch, Rhea Ripley and Bayley defeated The Empire (Asuka, Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler) in 10:19 when Becky Lynch submitted Aja Kong with a Dis-arm-her. In terms of in-ring work, Becky Lynch was head and shoulders above everyone else. Aja Kong was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. (rating: 78) Cody Challenge - Cody Rhode's music plays - Over the last month or so there's been an issue between Cody and Bray Wyatt - Cody has had enough and its time for Bray and Cody Rhodes to step into the ring - Cody: You want to blame me for what's happened to you, Bray, I get it. I don't understand it, but I get it. I wanted to blame so many people for what happened to me, but instead I left. I took it as a sign to walk away and find myself. We've had similar paths but entirely different journeys. We both come from wrestling families, we've both had to endure decisions and ideas we didn't agree with, we've both been away from the WWE and returned. But we've walked entirely different paths. Am I to blame for Husky Harris? I don't think I am, I was young... I was dashing... should I have been a mentor to a rookie? Probably not, but I tried my best. Did Husky? - Cody: While you've wallowed in self pity and grief to try and rebuild, I went out into the unknown, unable to even use my legal last name, to... ironically... mae a name for myself. To be me. So if it helps you heal, if it helps you find a reason to improve yourself, if it helps you find a name for yourself, then lets do this. Let's step into the ring at FASTLANE and slug it out. But I can't promise it will be the soothing redemption you desire. I can't promise it'll ease the pain that's stopping you from seeing there are people here who want to help you, who look to you for guidiance like Alexa and Liv. (rating: 75) Bray Accepts - Bray's Music plays - But there's no Husky Harris, there's no The Fiend, there's no Swamp Preacher Bray Wyatt - Bray's voice plays over the speakers - Cody Rhodes. The Rhodes family. A royal family of wrestling. I will accept your challenge, but I'm not sure what will manifest itself at FASTLANE. Bray Wyatt is dead. You let the fireflies out. Husky Harris... died long ago. The Fiend... well, he won't talk to me anymore. I'm searching for who I am, what I am. I watched them take Alexa and Liv. I watched them to see if they were part of who I am, or just a memory of something I once thought I belonged to. A family. I see now, I KNOW now, that I don't care for them. I have surrounded myself with outsiders, sheep, fireflies, dolls to try and fill a void I had ignored for so long. Myself. I've never known who I am. (rating 86) Overall Rating: 81

WWE RAW Monday, Week 4 February 2023 LIVE FROM Ontario, Canada (5400 in attendance) Commentary Team: Michael Cole, Mauro Ranallo and Pat McAfee Show Opens - Stephanie McMahon is in the ring - She's here to ann... - Before she can talk Sheamus and Bobby Lashley come brawling out down the entrance ramp - Referees and officials are trying to stop them - Sheamus and Lashely continue to brawl and it spills into the crowd - At the announcing desk, Michael Cole was pretty weak - The segment deserved better colour commentary - Bobby Lashley came across well - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 85) Officials - Sheamus and Bobby Lashley are finally seperated amongst the WWE Universe - Stephanie McMahon is still in the ring, watching on (rating: 72) Decision - Stephanie McMahon has a look of anger and amusement on her face - You two want to a fight? That's fine, but we do it the right way - In the ring with a referee - Stephanie McMahon demands Bobby Lashley and Sheamus get into the ring - She tells the referee to ring the bell (rating: 72) Bobby Lashley vs. Sheamus In a bout that had fantastic heat and great wrestling, Bobby Lashley drew with Sheamus in 15:34 following a double count out. - Sheamus and Lashley continued their brawl - The referee having to force themselves between the pair during ropebreaks - The fight spilled out of the ring several times, with the ref being leniant with the count - The ref had to force them back into the ring on a few occassions - Eventually the ref became fed up of Lashley and Sheamus fighting outside of the ring and counted them out - Bobby Lashley seemed off his game - Sheamus benefitted from being in amazing form - This match got the crowd hotter (rating: 82) Fight Continues! - The timekeeper's bell rings out - Lashley and Sheamus continue to fight (rating: 70) Fastlane Match - Stephanie McMahon has had enough - She demands their stop - Eventually officials stop Sheamus and Lashley fighting again - Stephanie McMahon says at Fastlane: Sheamus vs. Lashley in a Falls Count Anywhere match (rating: 74) Announcement - Stephanie McMahon is now ready to get on with her announcement - Tonight Asuka will face Rhea Ripley - Another reminder that Asuka must defend her title every week - Stephanie McMahon says there's also the issue of the WWE Undisputed Title - While it is an achievement that a women wrestler has holding the WWE Championship and the WWE Universal Championship, it has left little for the rest of the roster to fight for - Stephanie McMahon goes on to mention that the WWE Board of Directors are currently discussing the best way forward to ensure there's competition across all the WWE Roster (rating: 67) A Reminder of European Brilliance - The Imperium (GUNTHER, Giovanni Vinci and Ludwig Kaiser) make their way to the ring - Tonight they want to show Shinsuke Nakamura the brilliance of teamwork and European Wrestling (rating: 46) The Imperium vs. Los Psycho Circus In a bout that had sub-par wrestling and little heat, Imperium (Giovanni Vinci, Ludwig Kaiser and Gunther) defeated Los Psycho Circus (Monster Clown, Murder Clown and Psycho Clown) in 9:36 when Gunther pinned Monster Clown with a Chop. In terms of in-ring work, Gunther was head and shoulders above everyone else. - Psycho Clown and Mini Psycho Clown are a good pairing, they play off each other well - Gunther looked excellent out there (rating: 66) AJ Tells a Story - AJ Styles is in the ring - He's talking about his career and how some of the highlights were defending his titles in 4-way matches - There's still a long way to go before Austin Theory can ever claim he's surpassed AJ Style's career, even if he is doing well for himself at such a young age - AJ says when he was Theory's age he had to defend X-Division Title against Christopher Daniels and Samoa Joe - WWE Intercontinental Champion Austin Theory makes an appearance - Theory looks confident - You really think I can't defend my title against more than one person at a time? Look at me! LOOK AT ME! - Like I said on Smackdown... I'm THE FUTURE AND PRESENT of the WWE - I'm the greatest superstar under the age of 30 - The greatest Intercontinental Champion in history - I'M RATINGS - Anything you did, I will do... better - Theory tells the ref to get ready and then shouts for 3 people backstage to come down (rating: 74) WWE Intercontinental Title: Apollo Crews vs. Mansoor vs. Mustafa Ali vs. Theory In a decent match, Theory defeated Mansoor, Mustafa Ali and Apollo Crews in 15:07 when Theory pinned Mansoor with The Unproven Cutter. Theory makes defence number seven of the WWE Intercontinental title. - Theory had to interrupt several near falls to stop himself from losing the title - There were a few multi-wrestler spots chained together which looked good - Both Apollo Crews and Theory seemed off their game - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: ) Don't Believe Truth - Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods are backstage - They seem to be in a deep conversation but it isn't picked up by the mics - Ezekiel comes into frame - He tells them not to believe R-Truth - The New Day are better than what they did last week, they don't need to use underhanded tactics to win - They're the power of positivity - Kofi seems to be listening - Xavier Woods turns gets up and walks away, he seems to be taking something from his bag - They're brass knuckles - It looks like he's thinking about using them on Ezekiel... - Nothing happens as the camera cuts away (rating: 57) Open Challenge - Jey Uso is in the ring - It's time for him to show everyone he can make it as a solo wrestler - Rick Boogs answers the call - Jey Uso looked good - Rick Boogs underperformed (rating: 47) Rick Boogs vs. Jey Uso In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Jey Uso defeated Rick Boogs in 9:57 by pinfall with a Superkick. - Jey Uso seemed off his game - The commentary team talked about how little we've seen of Jey Uso since Jimmy Uso left - Jey has to prove to himself, the WWE Universe and more importantly Roman Reigns he can perform outside of tag team wrestling (rating: 56) Will You Be There? - Alexa Bliss is in the ring - Alone - Liv Morgan was seemingly abducted by The Cardinal last week after her match against Scarlett - After confronting Bray Wyatt for not helping, Alexa was almost put into the Sister Abigail before Cody Rhodes stopped Bray - Alexa doesn't know what's going on within Bray Wyatt's head, but she is convinced the Bray that has returned isn't the same Bray that left - She waited and pleaded for Bray's return and now he's back... she still feels like she's waiting for him to return - You always protected the family, why weren't you there for us - Will you be there tonight? - I DESERVE TO KNOW - Alexa Bliss looked good - Alexa Bliss struggled when going off-script (rating: 59) Alexa Bliss vs. Zelina In a decent match, Alexa Bliss defeated Queen Zelina in 9:54 by pinfall with a Twisted Bliss. - Alexa launched into a furious attack against Zelina - Although was distracted several times wondering and waiting to see if The Cardinal would interfere - Michael Cole and Pat McAfee work extremely well together at the announcer's table - They recapped the story between the Dark Sisterhood of Scarlett and Zelina against Alexa and Liv, as well as The Cardinal's mocking attacks to prove Bray Wyatt didn't care about Alexa and Liv (rating: 60) Red Light - As soon as the match finishes the lights go out - A single red spotlight shines on Alexa Bliss - Its The Cardinal - Alexa is calling out for Bray Wyatt's help - They're already around the ring and quickly close in as Zelina knocks Alexa unconscious - BUT BRAY WYATT IS AT THE ENTRANCE WAY! - The Cardinal move quickly to take Alexa Bliss - Bray Wyatt isn't moving, he stands and watches while holding his lantern - The Cardinal leave with Alexa through the crowd - Bray Wyatt turns his back and looks to leave through the entrance - Bray Wyatt was a real star in this segment - Dexter Lumis was very underwhelming - Alexa Bliss came out of this looking excellent (rating: 47) What's Your Problem?! - But Cody Rhodes comes running out, pushing past Bray Wyatt - Bray's lantern falls to the floor and smashes - By the time Cody has reached the ring the lights have came back on - The Cardinal are nowhere to be seen - Cody is furious with Bray Wyatt - What's wrong with you?! - Bray Wyatt looks at the lamp and then at Cody - And so all the little fireflys are free, their wings spreading the flames of their nightmares and dreams. This is your doing Cody, this is your American Nightmare. First Husky Harris and now Bray Wyatt slaughtered by your own desires and search for the fame that fleed from your father. - Cody doesn't understand - Bray, you've let Alexa and Liv down. They believed in you - I BELIEVED IN YOU, CODY, I BELIEVED YOU'D TAKE ME TO GREATNESS. I wanted to believe we'd become the greatest force, our legacies combined, the dreams of your father and mine, but you failed me - Bray, listen - Bray is no more, you've seen to that. You set him free, just as Randy Orton set The Fiend free. Soon they'll all be free - "Bray" walks off laughing, leaving Cody looking very confused - Bray Wyatt looked good - Cody Rhodes worked the crowd well - Bray Wyatt worked the crowd well (rating: 80) Backstage - Rhea Ripley and Bayley are confronting each other backstage - Bayley isn't happy that Rhea Ripley intereferred in her title match last week - Rhea Ripley smiles and says Asuka had it coming, you were just in the way - Bayley is not impressed - Rhea walks off to make her entrance (rating: 69) WWE Women's World Title: Rhea Ripley vs. Asuka (c) In a bout that had fantastic heat and great wrestling, Rhea Ripley drew with Asuka in 24:54 following a DQ after Bayley inteferred and attacked both Rhea Ripley and Asuka. (rating: 57) Fastlane - Stephanie McMahon makes an appearance at the entrance way - At Fastlane it'll be Rhea Ripley vs. Bayley vs. Asuka for the WWE Women's World Title - And the Special Guest Referee... Becky Lynch (rating: 71) Overall Rating: 71

WWE SmackDown! Friday, Week 3 February 2023 LIVE FROM WWE WRESTLING CENTER (5,000) Best in the World - Show opens with Asuka introducing KENTA, the best in the world - KENTA's accomplishments are highlighted to the WWE Universe - KENTA explains his return to the WWE... Daniel Bryan saying he was the 'best in the world' - For too long KENTA has let American wrestlers steal from him, first it was the Go 2 Sleep and now its them saying they're the Best in the World - For years I have tried to challenge those who have stole from me, those who have made a mockery of the 'best in the world' name - They always hid, there's no hiding now - His time in NXT proved to him one thing... the WWE doesn't know what it has and fears anyone who will break expectation - I am KENTA. I am the best in the world. - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start - Daniel Bryan helped produce this segment (rating: 74) Flight of the Valkyrie - Daniel Bryan comes out - He seems amused - Daniel Bryan says he's never hid from KENTA, just their paths have never crossed - KENTA stands starring daggers at Bryan - Daniel Bryan says he'll wrestle right here... TONIGHT! - KENTA shakes his head, the best in the world does not wrestle for free - The crowd don't like this, KENTA seems to go off on one - YOU CAN BOO ALL YOU LIKE, I have had enough stolen from me over the years; my identity, the move I created... I will not let you steal my living - You want to see me wrestle? You will pay - KENTA and Asuka turn to leave, but Daniel Bryan puts a hand on his shoulder to stop him - KENTA turns and swings a kick at Daniel Bryan, Bryan ducks - KENTA and Daniel Bryan stand facing off - Finally KENTA simply says... Wrestlemania - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 83) Nikki Cross & Allie vs. Aja Kong & Shayna Baszler In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler defeated Nikki Cross and Allie in 8:14 when Shayna Baszler pinned Allie with a Knockout Punch. In terms of in-ring work, Shayna Baszler was head and shoulders above everyone else. Aja Kong was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. (rating: 54) The Empire - After the match Asuka joins Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler in the ring - Asuka says The Empire is as strong as it has ever been, Kong and Baszler are more than ready to defend their titles and glory of The Empire against Liv Morgan and Alexa Bliss - Asuka says Rhea Ripley has made a huge mistake turning her back on The Empress - Just like all the other challengers before her, Rhea Ripley will be defeated (rating: 65) The Bollywood Boyz (Sunil & Samir Singh) vs. The New Day (Xavier Woods & Kofi Kingston) In a decent match, The New Day defeated The Bollywood Boyz in 9:49 when Kofi Kingston pinned Samir Singh after using a foreign object. - R-Truth slid the time keeper's hammer to Kofi Kingston - Kingston used the hammer on Samir Singh, while Xavier Woods distracted the referee - Kofi Kingston looked ashamed of their actions - Xavier Woods less so (rating: 61) R-Truth - Truth joins The New Day celebrating in the ring, he has a mic - Truth is proud of Xavier and Kofi, he knew they had it in them to be more than jokers - Truth says it can be a new day for The New Day if they just embrace the mean streak inside of them and leave the clownin' around behind - Xavier Woods seems to be agreeing - Kofi Kingston isn't too sure (rating: 67) Angel Garza vs. Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Drew Gulak vs. Ikemen Jiro In a decent match, Angel Garza defeated Brian Pillman Jr., Drew Gulak and Ikemen Jiro in 10:04 when Angel Garza pinned Ikemen Jiro with a Wing Clipper. Angel Garza carried the match in terms of in-ring performance. Drew Gulak was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. - A high flying affair - Drew Gulak seemed out of sorts, often being used as the base for the high fliers to hit their moves on - Commentary spent their time talking about how Smackdown had a tradition of cruiserweights (rating: 62) Cute J-Pop Entrance - Maki Itoh sings and performs her own J-Pop Song and Entrance - Its super cute and full of emojis and graphics - Crowd seemed to love it (rating: 64) American - Lacey Evans was already in the ring - She has a microphone and doesn't look impressed with Maki Itoh at all - Lacey Evans says its a disgrace that the world has to subjected to such sickening music and performances like that - A good old country song would have been far more American - Lacey Evans is tired of all this foreign crap - Lacey Evans struggled on the mic (rating: 43) Lacey Evans vs. Maki Itoh In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Maki Itoh defeated Lacey Evans in 8:07 by pinfall with a Flying Big Head. - Lacey Evans and Maki Itoh have great chemistry and it showed in their performance - There's a groundswell of support behind Maki Itoh - Lacey Evans really struggled in the ring (rating: 57) AJ's Career - AJ Styles is in the ring and talking about his 'wasted career' - He talks about his time in the indies name dropping Ring of Honor, and TNA, as well as his time in New Japan - AJ says all that time traveling the world allowed him to grow as a wrestler and a person - It also meant he had the opportunity to wrestle against some of the greatest wrestlers out there - AJ name drops Alex Shelley, Chris Sabin, Christopher Daniels, Frankie Kazarian and finally a man that helped define what modern wrestling would look like in the ring... Jerry Lynn - He's had 5-Star Matches, World Titles in multiple countries and helped established one of the most defying titles in American Wrestling (he's referring to the TNA X-Division Title) - AJ wouldn't change a thing, as everything eventually led to the WWE - Commentary did their best to help put over the name drops - Crowd didn't seem to care about the history lesson (rating: 41) All Wasted Careers - Theory's time! WWE Intercontinental Champion Austin Theory makes his way to the ring - All those names... wasted careers. None of them did anything in their prime in the WWE worthwhile. Unlike me. - Theory isn't just THE FUTURE (a stab at Frankie Kazarian?), he's the present... and that's Gospel. - AJ laughs, he thinks Theory is great at running his mouth, but being a champion? Nah - AJ says the WWE IC Title has always been the fighting champion's title and he knows what that takes - Wrestling 3-4 times a week across the country or the world, not just showing up on the TV, smiling and posing with the title once in a while - Theory says he'll show the world he's better than AJ Styles ever was against anyone, any time and any pla... (rating: 76) Theory Challenged - Familiar to some maybe... Disposable Teens (radio edit) by Marilyn Manson plays - Making their WWE return after 20 years... Christopher Daniels! He's the current NXT: Japan Intercontinental Champion - That's gospel!? Boy, I ought to slap the taste out of your mouth right now - Theory looks shocked and worried - AJ is smirking - Christopher Daniels is pacing around Theory - You think you're better than AJ Styles? By 25 he had been the NWA World Heavyweight Champion and his name was known around the world WITHOUT being on WWE TV - He also managed to beat me, and it takes either someone very special or very lucky to beat me... and THAT'S gospel - So I'm going to ask you, Austin Theory... Are you someone very lucky or special? Do you feel... lucky... PUNK - AJ reminds Theory he said anyone, any time... - Theory looks like he regrets his comments - Crowd are behind this - AJ says he had, not some, but his best matches against Christopher Daniels, and even now 25 years later he knows Christopher Daniels could still push people to their limits - Oh kids, if you don't know who I am now, you will in a few minutes - So what do you say, Austin Theory? - Theory reluctantly agrees - Christopher Daniels was superb working without a script, he had the crowd in the palm of his hand the entire time (rating: 71) WWE Intercontinental Title: Christopher Daniels vs. Theory (c) In a bout that had good heat and decent wrestling, Theory defeated Christopher Daniels in 12:44 by pinfall with a fast roll up. Theory makes defence number six of the WWE Intercontinental title. - "You've still got it chants broke out several times" - Both wrestlers went out to steal the show - Despite being in his 50s Christopher Daniels still put on a good performance - Something a landmark moment for Christopher Daniels finally making his main roster WWE debut - Daniels couldn't believe Theory managed to get the quick roll up on him after rolling out of the Best Moonsault Ever - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 67) Backstage - Rex Steiner and Goldberg are walking, discussing power moves and su - LADDERS! - Kevin Owens comes flying into frame clotheslining both Steiner and Goldberg with an outstretched ladder - KO throws the ladder down onto the prone Steiner and Goldberg (rating: 68) Sami Zayn vs. Daniel Bryan In an exceptional match, Sami Zayn defeated Daniel Bryan in 15:22 by pinfall with a Helluva Kick following interference from KENTA. - Sami Zayn and Daniel Bryan have great chemistry and it showed in their performance - This match got the crowd buzzing - Show goes off the air focusing on the deadly look of KENTA (rating: 77) Overall Rating: 76

WWE RAW Monday, Week 3, February 2023 Live from Manitoba (4,300) The Bloodline - RAW opens with The Bloodline making their way to the ring - Their focus over the last few months has been The Rock - The Rock believes he is the true Head of the Table, the real Tribal Chief of the family - The Rock and Roman Reigns are due to fight each other at Wrestlemania - Roman Reigns begins to talk about The Blooldine and what it means - He reminds The Rock that every member of The Bloodline is here because they want to be here, not because they were asked - Roman points to Jey Uso - Even after fighting his own Father, he's still here - Roman points to Ava Raines - After being beaten by her Father, The Rock, she knows who her real family is - Roman asks who's standing besides The Rock... Rikishi? - The performance of Roman Reigns was fantastic - Ava Raine looked dreadful in this perforamnce - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 63) WWE Cruiserweight #1 Contender's Match: Daniel Bryan vs. Cedric Alexander vs. Johnny Gargano - Cedric Alexander and Johnny Gargano have made their entrances - They're waiting in the ring for Daniel Bryan - His music has continued to play - The camera cuts backstage to show a prone Daniel Bryan, it pans up to show KENTA standing over him - KENTA, previously known as Hideo Itami in NXT, has returned to the WWE - Standing beside him is a laughing Asuka, mocking "best in the world" Daniel Bryan (rating: 66) WWE Cruiserweight #1 Contender's Match: Cedric Alexander vs. Johnny Gargano In a decent match, Johnny Gargano defeated Cedric Alexander in 18:09 by pinfall with a Hurts Donut. - Cedric Alexander was really off his game - This match got the crowd buzzing - Johnny Gargano is the new #1 Contender (rating: 61) Announcement - Stephanie McMahon is in the ring - She is here to announce who Asuka's opponent will be tonight - Ever since Asuka illegally used her mist after they were banned, the WWE Board of Directors decided as a punishment Asuka would defend her title every week - Tonight she will defend the WWE Women's World Title against... BAYLEY! (rating: 70) New Day - Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods are backstage - They talking about the upcoming #1 Contender's Match for the WWE World Tag Team Titles - They're not part of it... - Xavier isn't happy - Kofi tries to reassure him, but its no use - Xavier wonders if The New Day has run its course, things don't seem the same without Big E - Kofi mentions the POWER OF POSITIVITY! - Xaiver looks at him unsure - Kofi holds a the trombone up and smiles... (rating: 66) #1 Contender's Match WWE World Tag Team Titles: MACE & Omos vs. The Street Profits vs. Aleister Black & Dominik Dijakovic vs. El Hijo del Fantasma & Angel Garza In a decent match, MACE & Omos defeated The Street Profits, Aleister Black and Dominik Dijakovic and El Hijo del Fantasma and Angel Garza in 25:42 when MACE pinned El Hijo del Fantasma. In terms of in-ring work, Montez Ford was head and shoulders above everyone else. - Mace & OMOS are the new #1 Contenders to face The Samoan Hit Squad (rating: 58) The New Day (continued) - Kofi and Xavier are still backstage - It looks like they were watching the tag match - Kofi is trying to get Xavier to give a toot on his trombone - Xavier isn't having any of it - T-Truth comes into frame, he tells The New Day that they're being left behind - The Truth is that you're seen as jokes, smiling and dancing to entertain but never fighting and winning for yourselves - Do you think anyone remembers you were WWE Champion? - Do you think anyone remembers you were King of the Ring? - Kofi and Xavier look at Truth and then at each other (rating: 64) The Dark Sisterhood - Liv Morgan and Alexa Bliss are backstage talking about Scarlet Bordeaux and Zelina, better known as The Dark Sisterhood - The Dark Sisterhood have tried their best to plant seeds of doubt into Alexa and Liv's minds about Bray Wyatt - So far perhaps The Dark Sisterhood have been right, perhaps Bray Wyatt is just using Alexa and Liv - Bray has failed to show up whenever The Cardinal and The Dark Sisterhood have threatened Alexa and Liv - Liv has had enough, its time for Alexa and her to face Scarlett and Zelina and end the doubts - Alex and Liv are due to face the WWE Women's World Tag Team Champions The Hate Crew (aka Shanya Baszler and Aja Kong) at Fast Lane - They don't need distractions (rating: 68) Liv Morgan vs. Scarlett Bordeaux In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Liv Morgan defeated Scarlett Bordeaux in 13:06 by pinfall. - Liv was distracted most of the match expecting outside interference from The Cardinal (rating: 52) The Cardinal - Liv Morgan's fears weren't unjust - After the match the lights went out and were replaced by a red spotlight on the ring - The Cardinal surrounded the ring, leaving Liv Morgan with no where to go - Zelina attacked Liv Morgan, which was the queue for the rest of The Cardinal to climb into the ring - The lights went out and when they came back on Liv Morgan and The Cardinal were no where to be seen (rating: 46) Backstage - Edge is walking backstage - His main motivation the last few weeks has been ending Goldberg's career, so he can be the last hero of the attitude era - Suddenly Edge is shoulder charged out of frame - It's Rex Steiner! - Rex Steiner brawls with Edge until he finally suplexes him through a catering table - Steiner taunts Edge - Steiner has been Goldberg's protege of sorts lately (rating: 65) Ladies and Gentlemen... - Bray Wyatt's music plays, as ringside goes dark - Bo Wyatt appears - Bo Wyatt returned to the WWE under the guise of The Fiend with Bray Wyatt - Bo is here to introduce a good friend of him, a young hopeful prospect in the WWE... HUSKY HARRIS! - Bray Wyatt appears as Husky Harris' music plays - Bray is dressed in Husky Harris ring gear - Bray Wyatt/Husky Harris wants to talk about his path from FCW to NXT - My name's Husky Harris, ever since I was a little kid my teachers would ask me what I'd wanted to be... and I'd say a WWE Superstar - Everyone would laugh at me, I'm a third generation superstar; my grandfather is Blackjack Mulligan and my dad is the IRS man... haha I've had that shadow hanging over me since the day I was born - But I'm ready for the WWE, I was born for this - ... but that's not how it went, was it - I was eliminated in NXT, ahead of Alex Riley, Curtis Axel and... Kaval - Only I didn't fail you, Cody... you failed me. Even after I was eliminated you wouldn't let me speak, you wouldn't me have my time - For 12 years... TWELEVE YEARS... Husky has been in pain, angry, tormented, seeking redemp - no not redemption... revenge - (rating: 67) Tyler Tirva vs. Husky Harris In an extremely short match, Windham defeated Tyler Tirva in 2:55 by pinfall with a Standing Senton Splash. (rating: 58) Give Me Your Tears - Bray Wyatt/Husky Harris remains in the ring - Do you see now, Cody? Do you understand? - Husky Harris needs to heal, but so do so many other souls lost within this vessel - You caused this pain, Cody - Your legacy was remembered, you got to be who you wanted to be - I WAS HUSKY HARRIS, where was my family legacy (rating: 76) Cody Respondes - Cody Rhodes' music plays as he makes his way to the ring - Cody looks confused - Bray, I understand more than most how you feel - I might have been Cody Rhodes, but I was also Stardust, my Brother was Goldust and my father was dressed up in polka dots and made to do plumbing... HE WAS A WORLD CHAMPION - My family have been made to look like jokes for generations and you know what we did..? We made it work, we shoved it right back in WWE's faces - I understand your pain, there's no one in the WWE that sympthses with you more. You're attacking the wrong person (rating: 79) Where Were You? - Alexa Bliss' music plays as she comes running down to the ring - She's pissed - Liv Morgan was kidnapped by The Cardinal earlier, and have been harrassing both Alexa and Liv for weeks - Bray has never tried to help them once - Alexa is furious with Bray Wyatt - Bray/Husky Harris stands and takes the chest beatings - Bray: Little lady, I didn't come back here to save you... I came back here to save myself - Bray looks to embrace Alexa in a hug, but instead puts her in the Sister Abigail! - Cody interrupts the move, saving Alexa - Cody and Bray have a stand off - Alexa is shouting at both them, she doesn't need their help (rating: 69) Bang Time - Sheamus and Bobby Lashley are in a confrontation with each other backstage - Sheamus demands to know why Lashley attacked him on Smackdown - Lashley says he's done playing games and its time to fight - He thinks Drew and Sheamus are jokers (rating: 84) WWE Women's Title: Bayley vs. Asuka (c) In a bout that had fantastic heat and good wrestling, Asuka defeated Bayley in 30:03 when Bayley was disqualified when Rhea Ripley ran in and attacked Asuka. Asuka makes defence number four of the WWE Women's title. - Asuka looks shocked that Rhea Ripley has attacked her - Bayley isn't happy her title shot has ended with a DQ (rating: 66) Confusion and Staredown - Rhea reminds Asuka about the black mist - Rhea hasn't forgotten about that - Rhea is pointing at Asuka's title - Bayley is still furious (rating: 72) Overall Rating: 71

WWE SMACKDOWN Friday, Week 2 Feb 2023 Live from British Columbia (4,900) Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Cedric Alexander vs. Giovanni Vinci vs. Mansoor In a decent match, Cedric Alexander defeated Brian Pillman Jr., Giovanni Vinci and Mansoor in 9:47 when Cedric Alexander pinned Mansoor with a Kick to Kill. rating: 49 #1 Contender - Daniel Bryan is backstage talking to WWE Cruiserweight champion Ricochet - Bryan is telling Ricochet that he's the best wrestler in the WWE and the real number one contender - Johnny Gargano makes an appearance and says he's Mr. Wrestling and always the number one contender - Ricochet laughs and pats his title - He's the WWE Cruiserweight Champion, so better than both of them - Daniel Bryan says he'll defeat Cedric Alexander and take the #1 contender spot from him - Gargano disagrees... HE'LL be the one to defeat Alexander - Ricochet shurgs and walks off - This angle gor the crowd hotter (rating: 60) New Day - Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods are in the lockeroom - Kofi wants to know what happened on RAW - Xavier apologises - The pair hug it out (rating: 61) Team Kick vs. Aja Kong & Shayna Baszler In a poor match, Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler defeated Team Kick in 9:49 when Aja Kong pinned Dakota Kai with an Uraken. Aja Kong was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. - A poor match with several wrestlers looking off their game (rating: 44) WWE Women's Tag Title Talk - Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan are chatting backstage about their title shot against Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler - They know it will be tough, even more so with Scarlett and Vega constantly trying to interfer - There's a pause before Liv asks Alexa if Bray Wyatt is really back... if he'll have their backs if The Cardinal try to get involved - There's no answer (rating: 54) Gunther vs. Rick Boogs - The match doesn't even officially start as Gunther grabs Boogs in the ring before the ref can ring the bell - He locks Boogs into a painful half boston crab! (rating: 53) FIGHT ME - Kaiser brings a microphone over to Gunther who still has Boogs in a half boston crab - Gunther orders Nakamura to fight him or he'll rip Boogs' muscles in half - Gunther looked good - Boogs was very underwhelming (rating: 47) Strong Style! - Shinsuke Nakamura's music plays - Gunther lets Boogs go and prepares - Shinsuke makes his way to the ring - The pair staredown - Nakamura agrees to fight Gunther one more time (rating: 65) Rex Steiner isn't happy - Steiner is pissed that Kevin Owens took him out with a chair shot on RAW - Tonight is payback time! (rating: 72) Rex Steiner vs. Kevin Owens In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Rex Steiner defeated Kevin Owens in 20:24 by disqualification. - Rex Steiner repeatedly had the upper hand during the match - Eventually Kevin Owens grabbed a steel chair and cracked it across Steiner's back - Ref DQ'd KO (rating: 62) Wasted Career - AJ Styles and Rey Mysterio are chatting about their match tonight against Logan Paul, Theory and Riddle - Styles and Mysterio have had a few run ins with the Bros lately with jibes about their age - Sheamus comes into frame, he's ready to join them tonight - All this talk of people over 40 being too old and past it has got his blood pumping - Besides... don't they realise Riddle is like 37 (rating: 70) AJ Styles, Sheamus & Rey Mysterio vs. The Bros (Logan Paul, Riddle and Theory) In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, The Bro-Movement (Logan Paul, Riddle and Theory) defeated AJ Styles, Sheamus and Rey Mysterio in 26:26 when Riddle submitted Rey Mysterio with a Bromission after blatantly cheating. During the match we also had Bobby Lashley run in and attack Sheamus. In terms of in-ring work, Sheamus was head and shoulders above everyone else. - Sheamus was taken out of the match towards the end by Bobby Lashley - The pair continued to fight ringside (rating: 69) BANG TIME - Bobby Lashley and Sheamus brawl continues - They fight in to the crowd as the show goes off air (rating: 85) Overall Rating: 70

WWE RAW Monday, Week 2 Feb 2023 4,800 @ British Columbia, Canada Commentary Team: Michael Cole, Mauro Ranallo and Pat McAfee The Bloodline - The show starts with The Bloodline (Roman Reigns, Jey Uso, Ava Raine and the WWE World Tag Team Champions Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa) in the ring - Roman wants to talk about The Rock - Roman talks about how The Rock has shown his worth to face him at Wrestlemania - He asks The Rock if he would have Rock Bottomed his own daughter and ended John Cena's career if he didn't respect Roman Reigns - That's the power of the tribal chief - Roman never made The Rock do anything of those things, it was all The Rock's decision - Roman echoes John Cena's words "Was it really worth it?" - Roman says The Rock might beat him at Wrestlemania, but will that really prove anything? Will that really show he's the Tribal Chief? The Rock's own daughter hates him and even some parts of the crowd boo The Rock's name for ending the career of John Cena - I hope it was worth it - Roman Reigns came out of this looking excellent - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 67) Team Kick vs. Alexa Bliss & Liv Morgan In a decent match, Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan defeated Team Kick in 16:14 when Alexa Bliss pinned Nixon Newell with a Twisted Bliss. This match was part of the 'WWE Women's World Tag Titles' tournament. - There was a groundswell of public support for Nixon Newell and Liv Morgan (rating: 60) Seth Talks - Seth Rollins is backstage giving an interview - He's talking about the Royal Rumble and how he worked with his wife Becky Lynch to secure a final four spot - Seth says he did it for his family, he knew how much it meant to Becky's recovery to be able to have a secure title shot at Wrestlemania - He didn't think twice about eliminating himself when it came down to him and Becky as the final two, he knows Becky would have thrown his ass over the top rope anyway if he hadn't - Seth says the challenge now will be to make sure Asuka doesn't find a way to dodge Becky's challenge between now and Wrestlemania - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 78) Wasted Career - The Bros (Logan Paul, Theory and Riddle) are in the ring, they're talking about AJ Styles and his wasted career - Logan Paul says AJ Styles is one of the most lucky wrestlers out there, to have built up so much goodwill people will over look his tired old ass in the ring - Riddle says Bro a lot - Logan Paul continues to explain that the future of the WWE is already in the ring... Logan Paul, Theory and Riddle - Three Wrestlers who haven't even hit their prime, let alone wasted a decade - Riddle says there are too many wrestlers in the WWE over the age of 40 and inducing sleep on the crowd - Theory laughs and says it reminds him of watching Rey Mysterio - Rey's music plays - Rey tells Theory to repeat that, it might be his old age but he thought Theory said that AJ Styles and Rey Mysterio were... boring - Rey Mysterio shows his support to AJ Styles, saying he's proud to be Style's tag team partner whenever he asks (rating: 74) Challenge - Rey continues to say he'll show his support for AJ Styles tonight by defeating Theory - Riddle and Logan Paul talk over Rey Mysterio telling him to pipe down - Logan Paul says that Rey Mysterio has had his time in the WWE, now its time for the REAL superstars to have their time - Rey Mysterio says Theory reminds him of his son Dominik, always complaining but never ready to step up and become a man - Theory is hot - The match is on (rating: 75) WWE IC Title: Rey Mysterio vs. Theory (c) In a bout that had good heat and decent wrestling, Theory defeated Rey Mysterio in 15:30 by pinfall with The Unproven Cutter. Theory makes defence number five of the WWE Intercontinental title. - Another Steal the Show attempt from Theory - Rey Mysterio showed he could still go - Crowd chanted 'You've still got it' - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 70) Banger after Banger - Backstage the trio of Bobby Lashley, Drew McIntyre and Sheamus are hanging out - They're talking about Bobby Lashley's attempt against Roman Reigns last week - Drew says it was kinda brave to go after the Big Dog like that - Sheamus says he's braver than Bobby Lashley and will prove it tonight by going against Roman Reigns - Drew laughs and says he's going after the biggest of them all... WWE US Champion and giant... Omos - Bobby Lashley is looking at them and isn't impressed - He thinks Drew and Sheamus are taking this all as a joke - Bobby Lashley says this isn't a joke, this is a way of life for him - He is The Almighty - He walks off unimpressed - Drew and Sheamus look at each other - Guy needs to chill (rating: 79) WWE World Tag Team Titles: The New Day vs. Samoan Hit Squad In a decent match, Samoan Hit Squad defeated The New Day in 17:32 when Jacob Fatu pinned Kofi Kingston with a handful of tights. Samoan Hit Squad make defence number seven of the WWE World Tag Team titles. Solo Sikoa was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. - There was an element of miscommunication throughtout the match between Kofi and Xavier - The story eventually peaked when Kofi went to tag Xavier and Xavier wasn't there - Xavier had already shrugged off the match and was halfway up the ramp! (rating: 59) The New Day - Kofi remains in the ring, he isn't happy - He wants to know what's up with Xavier, why did he turn his back on him during the match... that's not like him at all - Xavier is shaking his head and shouting 'you don't get it' - Kofi is trying to catch up with Xavier, but Xavier is shrugging him off as they both return backstage (rating: 63) To Challenge a Giant - Drew McIntyre is standing in the ring now, he's challenging Omos - Omos is the biggest wrestler on the roster, a giant of a man, standing 7'3" and current WWE US Champion - Omos' music plays as he makes his way to the ring - Omos seems almost amused to have been challenged, but accepts it in good faith - Omos holds up the WWE US Title and says he'll make it interesting by putting the title on the line (rating: 73) Backstage - There's a knock on the door of The Bloodline's private suite - Sheamus walks in - The Bloodline close ranks around Roman, but he waves them off... he's going to let Sheamus speak - Sheamus challenges Roman Reigns to match, to prove who the best fighter in the WWE is... - Roman stands up and admits he needs another challenge to help him get ready for Wrestlemania - Sheamus and Roman stand nose-to-nose - Roman says Sheamus might regret his challenge - Roman Reigns came out of this looking excellent (rating: 100) WWE US Title: Drew McIntyre vs. Omos (c) In a bout that had great heat and decent wrestling, Omos defeated Drew McIntyre in 12:49 by pinfall with a Claw. Omos makes defence number three of the WWE United States title. - The match was a wild brawl - Drew McIntyre looked good out there - He really put Omos over (rating: 70) Cryptic - Cody Rhodes makes his way to the ring, he's here to talk about Bray Wyatt - He finds Bray Wyatt fascinating and frustrating, he believes Bray could be one of the best minds of the generation if he wasn't so damn cryptic - Are you blaming me, Bray? I don't understand - Look at what I achieved when I left the WWE, I made friends, we did the impossible and created a business together that sold tickets and t-shirts when nobody believed we could - Then I look at what you've achieved... and I'm not sure, I spent that time away from the WWE to prove and improve myself - You spent the time away wollowing and reliving slights that happened a decade ago - If you want to blame me for Husky Harris then blame me, come out into the ring, look me in the face and tell me - Tell me I'm to blame - I can't promise you it will make you feel better, but I can promise you I'll stand in the ring and listen - Come on BRAY..! - Cody Rhodes waits in the ring but nothing happens - He looks disappointed and leaves - Cody Rhodes looked good (rating: 72) The Bloodline - We return to see The Bloodline are in the ring again - Roman says perhaps people have forgotten just how powerful The Bloodline are, he reminds everyone how long he held the WWE Title and the WWE Universal title, how long The Usos were RAW and Smackdown tag team champions AND held the WWE Intercontinental and WWE US Title at the same time - Roman has been sat back watching Asuka and Becky fight over the WWE Undisputed title, he hasn't forgotten how Becky used Bobby Lashley as a distraction to take what is rightfully Roman Reigns' titles - Even now Jacob Fatu and Solo Sikoa, the Samoan Hit Squad, are WWE World Tag Team titles - Roman turns to Jey Uso.. and its time for Jey Uso to claim the WWE US Title - The Bloodline is only growing stronger and once The Rock is out of the way the titles will be back around Roman Reign's waist (rating: 65) Sheamus vs. Roman Reigns In an exceptional match, Roman Reigns defeated Sheamus in 19:50 by pinfall with a Spear. - Sheamus benefitted from being in amazing form - Roman Reigns benefitted from being in amazing form (rating: 74) Backstage - The cameras catch Sheamus returning backstage to the locker room - He's greeted by Drew McIntyre, the two shakehands and compliment each other on a banger of a match - Bobby Lashley walks into frame, he's laughing - You two still don't get it do you, you're happy to lose as long as you had a 'banger'... you make me sick, you're pathetic - What matters to me is winning matches, which I'll do by being the best damn wrestler in the business today - If you thought this thing between us was some sort of friendship, you're bigger fools than I thought - Bobby Lashley successfully turned heel - Sheamus successfully turned face (rating: 67) Bill Goldberg vs. Kevin Owens In a bout that had fantastic heat and good wrestling, Bill Goldberg defeated Kevin Owens in 10:03 by pinfall with a Jackhammer. - Goldberg was exhausted by the end (rating: 62) Chairs - Goldberg is propped up against the turnbuckles after his victory - He can barely move - Kevin Owens has grabbed a chair and attacks Goldberg! - Edge is running down the entrance ramp with a chair! - Rex Steiner runs down after him - Steiner stops Edge and takes the chair away - CHAIRSHOT ON EDGE - Steiner gets into the ring and fights off Kevin Owens for the save - Rex Steiner helps Goldberg to his feet as the show goes off the air (rating: 65) Overall Rating: 75

- Following her termination by the WWE, Paige has launched a wrongful termination lawsuit - There are talks internally of a major shake up of the WWE roster post-Wrestlemania - It sounds like this shake up will be top to bottom from the Main Roster all the way through NXT, NXT UK and NXT Japan - There's also talks of a TV shake up too, with Main Event and Superstars possibly being terminated

WWE SmackDown 5,000 @ Alberta, Canada Commentary Team: Nigel McGuinness, Steve Austin and Mauro Ranallo Goodbye Video - A video package for John Cena opens the show - The video is paying tribute to John Cena's career - It ends with Cena saying goodbye while his words to The Rock echo out - I hope it was worth it... (rating: 72) Robert Roode vs. Shinsuke Nakamura In a decent match, Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Robert Roode in 19:33 by pinfall with a Kinshasa. (rating: 62) Not Finished - Gunther's music plays before Nakamura can leave the ring - Gunther stands at the entrance way - He says it isn't over between him and Nakamura, he will conquer Strong Style - Nakamura holds up his fingers indicating its 3-1 in his favour - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 76) Best in the World - Daniel Bryan's music plays as he makes his way to the ring - Bryan is talking about being the best in the world, but has heard that people have been talking about how two other wrestlers have put on the best match in recent WWE history - Bryan talks up Johnny Gargano and Ricochet, saying that Cruiserweights aren't to be overlooked - Daniel Bryan is a Cruiserweight, AJ Styles used to be, Rey Mysterio, Ultimo Dragon, Chris Jericho, Chris Benoit, Dean Malenko, Eddie Guererro... - Some of the most prestiges wrestlers in HISTORY were once Cruiserweights. The real workhorses of professional wrestling. - Bryan puts out the question... if you'll have me, lets make it a 3 way tonight... Daniel Bryan, Johnny Gargano and Ricochet - The performance of Daniel Bryan was fantastic - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 62) Challenge? - Ricochet's music plays as he joins Daniel Bryan in the ring - Ricochet would be honoured to face Daniel Bryan - Eventually Johnny Gargano, the current WWE Cruiserweight champion's music plays - He walks around for a bit before finally saying he thinks Ricochet and Daniel Bryan might be good enough to hang in the ring with... MR. WRESTLING - Daniel Bryan laughs... Mr. Wrestling?! - Bryan says he never did get a rematch for the Cruiserweight title - Gargano says not to waste his time, as he'd not be able to beat him tonight anyway - Bryan questions Gargano's Mr. Wrestling tag... - Eventually Gargano accepts to put the title on the line - Ricochet was very underwhelming (rating: 67) WWE Cruiserweight Title: Daniel Bryan vs. Ricochet vs. Johnny Gargano In a bout that had great wrestling and good heat, Ricochet defeated Daniel Bryan and Johnny Gargano in 17:47 when Ricochet pinned Johnny Gargano with a 630° Splash. Ricochet wins the WWE Cruiserweight title. Daniel Bryan carried the match in terms of in-ring performance. - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 77) You Still Call Yourself - Asuka's music plays - Disrupting Ricochet's celebration in the ring - Asuka is talking about Daniel Bryan - You still call yourself 'Best in the World' - Yet you lost to me, now you can't win this match - Asuka laughs - I wanted the real Best in the World at Royal Rumble for you - But legal issues meant he couldn't show - Wrestlemania though... you will discover Best in the World (rating: 85) We Defeated You - Kevin Owens and Edge are in the ring - They're talking about their match against Goldberg and Rex Steiner on RAW - WE BEAT YOU GOLDBERG, YOUR TIME IS OVER - WE WON, YOU LOST - WE FINISHED YOU (rating: 69) Marko Estrada vs. Gunther In a bout that had decent wrestling but little heat, Gunther defeated Marko Estrada in 1:31 by pinfall with a Big Splash. (rating: 58) ...interruption... - familiar music plays as - Firefly Funhouse - Applause as Bray Wyatt appears - Did you miss me? (yeah!) - Boy, did I miss you! It feels like a life-time since we last spoke - I bet some of you have even grown up now and might even find old Bray Wyatt a little too silly for them (nooooooo) - But that's OK as people change, people change all the time! - I've changed - A pig puppet appears - Look kids, its our old friend Huskus! Say 'Hi Huskus!' (HI HUSKUS!) - Huskus... you look sad, what's wrong? - Huskus is crying, its bullies, Bray (booooooooo) - Bullies? Do you know what we do with bullies, kids? (nooooo) - We beat 'em, and we burn 'em, and we smash their skulls! (YAY) - The camera zooms in on Huskus' beady eyes (rating: 77) You Didn't Beat Me - Goldberg and Rex Steiner have made their way to the ring - They're here to reply to Edge and Kevin Owens - Goldberg says they never beat him, they beat the kid - Rex Steiner looks at Goldberg - Goldberg says if Edge and Kevin Owens want to take the cheap way out like that it wouldn't surprise him - Rex Steiner takes the mic - EDGE HOW ABOUT WE FIGHT TONIGHT, SURE YOU BEAT ME ON MONDAY BUT THAT WAS A MONDAY AND THIS IS A FRIDAY THATS FIVE DAYS, BUT IF YOU TOO OLD TO FIGHT TWICE IN FIVE DAYS HOW ABOUT WE MAKE IT SEVEN DAYS AND DO IT ON RAW, IF YOU STILL TOO OLD WE CAN WAIT 14 DAYS AND DO IT THE WEEK AFTER. I DON'T WANT TO WAIT TOO LONG THOUGH COS I'M READY NOW AND I WORRY EACH DAY YOU MIGHT RETIRE OR SOMETHING - Rex Steiner continues - IF YOU FEEL LIKE I SHOULD PUT EDGE INO THE STEINER RECLINER LET ME HEAR YA - Crowd strangely responsive to this (rating: 70) Matchmaking - Edge and Kevin Owens appear at the entrance way - Edge is confused - What the hell you talking about, kid? - EVERYBODY CALLING ME A KID, BUT I AM MORE MAN THAN YOU TWO AND YOUR BROTHERS COMBINED - Alright, Alright, relax, guy - KO talks about Goldberg - Goldberg, OK, so we didn't pin you, but you were part of the losing team... that has to count for something - How about... Edge faces Rex Steiner tonight and on Monday at RAW we go at it one-on-one - Goldberg and Rex agrees - KO continues, and for crying out loud, but that man on a leash or something (rating: 80) Alexa Bliss & Liv Morgan vs. Hikaru Shida & Maki Itoh In a decent match, Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan defeated Hikaru Shida and Maki Itoh in 15:30 when Alexa Bliss pinned Hikaru Shida with a Twisted Bliss. This match was part of the 'WWE Women's World Tag Titles' tournament. (rating: 56) What Have We Done? - Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan remain in the ring - They want to talk about Bray Wyatt - What have we done? We haven't seen you for months - You even had a Funhouse without us? - Tell us what we've done, we can change - We want to be by your side - Alexa looks sad, they made me try and forget about you, and I almost did, but I never stopped believing you'd return - They wait expectingly but nothing happens (rating: 70) Edge vs. Rex Steiner In a bout that had great heat and decent wrestling, Rex Steiner defeated Edge in 10:07 by pinfall with a roll up. (rating: 66) Overall Rating: 73

WWE RAW Monday, Week 1 Febuary 2023 5,300 @ Alberta, Canada Commentary: Michael Cole, Mauro Ranallo and Pat McAfee Rumble Winner - Show opens with Becky Lynch - Lynch talks about winning the Rumble and Seth Rollins eliminating himself for her to win - While it was nice, she wouldn't have hesitated throwing his arse over the top rope if he had stayed in the ring - It means now she has a title shot at whoever the champion is at Wrestlemania and she prays its Asuka - It needs to be Asuka - Becky Lynch came out of this looking excellent - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 82) A WWE Board of Director Reminder - Stephanie McMahon's music plays as she joins Becky Lynch in the ring - She congratulates Becky Lynch on the Rumble win - Stephanie reminds everyone that the WWE Board of Directors have agreed to allow Asuka to continue to compete in the WWE - As long as she defends her titles 1v1 with no interference from The Empire - Becky Lynch says she has plans for The Empire - Asuka's music plays halfway through as she joins the Becky and Stephanie in the ring - Asuka stalks around the pair and flaunts the WWE Undisputed and WWE Women's World Title in their face - Stephanie says talking of defending titles, you'll be starting that tonight... - Asuka was a real star in this segment - Becky Lynch came out of this looking excellent - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 84) Opponent - Stephanie McMahon introduces NAOMI! - Asuka doesn't look impressed - Becky thinks this will be good (rating: 71) WWE Undisputed Title: Naomi vs. Asuka (c) In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Asuka defeated Naomi in 17:40 by pinfall with a Spin Kick. Asuka makes defence number two of the WWE Undisputed. Asuka makes defence number three of the WWE Women's title. - Becky Lynch remains and joins the commentary table - Becky talks about what she's going to do to Asuka - There's a few nervous moments from Becky as Naomi came close to winning (rating: 82) Who the Hell... - Rex Steiner and Goldberg are watching some old WCW footage of Rick Steiner - They're sharing a moment and talking about a few moves Rex could try - Edge comes barging in demanding to know who the hell Rex Steiner thinks he is - Last night Rex Steiner stepped up to save Bill Goldberg from a conchairto at the hands of Edge - Goldberg and Rex Steiner stand face-to-face with Edge - Goldberg offers Edge another chance to defeat him tonight... in a tag match - Goldberg already has his partner... Rex Steiner - Edge better go find one - Bill Goldberg came across well (rating: 76) Backstage - Johnny Gargano approaches WWE Cruiserweight champion Ricochet - Last night the pair were in one of the best matches in recent WWE history - Gargano says they should go at it again and show everyone what they missed - Ricochet accepts (rating: 51) WWE Cruiserweight Title: Johnny Gargano vs. Ricochet (c) In a bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Johnny Gargano defeated Ricochet in 13:24 by pinfall with a Hurts Donut. Johnny Gargano wins the WWE Cruiserweight title. - While not as good as the pre-show match at the Royal Rumble still a decent match - Another attempt to steal the show from Gargano and Ricochet - Johnny Gargano and Ricochet have great chemistry and it showed in their performance - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 76) Handshake? - Gargano is celebrating - Ricochet walks over and offers a handshake - Gargano accepts - A nice mark of respect from Ricochet (rating: 50) Can't Touch This - The Bros (Logan Paul, Riddle and Theory) make their way to the ring - They're very happy that Theory still has the WWE IC Title - Theory tells AJ Styles he'll never have his hands on the IC title - Logan Paul laughs and mimicks AJ's expression from the Royal Rumble last night - Theory tells a story about how 15 years ago he was a kid watching AJ Styles doing amazing things that nobody knew about as everyone was too busy watching RAW - We're all as good, if not better than you AJ, and we haven't even reached our prime - You joined the party too late (rating: 71) Do it alone - AJ's music plays as he appears at the entrance way - He's clapping - AJ says he admires the friendship that Theory has with Logan Paul and Riddle - They've done well to keep the title around Theory's waist, after all... he wouldn't be able to do it alone - That's the difference between Theory and Styles he won titles in his prime by himself against some of the best indie wrestlers the world has ever seen - You want to be better than me then beat me alone (rating: 69) R-Truth vs. Ikemen Jiro In a terrible match, R-Truth defeated Ikemen Jiro in 7:38 by pinfall with a What's Up?. - This match was little more than a toilet break - It put over R-Truth's nastier heel character (rating: 35) Partner - The cameras catch Edge talking to Kevin Owens - This isn't about the bounty anymore for Edge its about personal pride and showing everyone that he really is the Last Superstar of the Attitude Era - Edge asks Owens to team with him tonight to share the moment of ending Goldberg's career - Kevin Owens agrees - Its time to take care of Goldberg himself (rating: 70) Team Kick vs. Style and Substance In a bout that didn't have much heat and terrible wrestling, Team Kick defeated Style And Substance in 13:13 when Dakota Kai pinned Jacy Jayne with a Top Rope Splash. This match was part of the 'WWE Women's World Tag Titles' tournament. (rating: 46) Banger Rumble Review - Bobby Lashley, Drew McIntyre and Sheamus are hanging out backstage - They still have a few bruises from their brawls throughout the rumble last night - It looks like they've been comparing score cards of who they eliminated - Sheamus thinks he should get double for taking care of The Great Khali - Drew says he eliminated Khali - Lashley tells both of them to shut their mouths, Khali was his - Drew and Sheamus both look at Lashley and make a mock scared reaction - They decide they can all have Khali - Lashley stands up and tells them he has a big match tonight against Roman Reigns - Sheamus and Drew look at each other as Lashley walks off - How did he get that?! - Bobby Lashley used subtle mannerisms to hint a future heel turn - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 82) Let's Talk about The Rumble - Cody Rhodes is in the ring - Last night at the Rumble he made it into the final 4 until the lights went out and Bray Wyatt appeared to throw him over the top rope - Cody had Wrestlemania in his sights, an almost perfect return from injury to restart a legacy he's always dreamed of in the WWE - And then... Bray Wyatt - Cody gets it, he understands it, he's been in the similar position as Bray Wyatt - Nobody understanding just how much wrestling means to him, people in charge giving him bad gimmicks and making bad decisions for him - Husky Harris and Stardust are the same - Cody left to find himself and prove the doubters wrong, now the doubters are his biggest fans - He lost the chip on his shoulder and made the name Rhodes his own and nost just his Fathers' - Do you blame me for your failures? Come out and talk to me about it. Come on! - Cody waits - But Bray Wyatt doesn't appear - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 69) Go say Goodbye - Backstage in The Bloodlines private lounge Roman Reigns is talking to John Cena - John Cena lost last night to The Rock - Roman Reigns thinks Cena let him down by losing to The Rock - But will let Cena go say goodbye to his fans, as Roman Reigns is a man of his word and understands respect more than anyone else - Roman never once stands up from his chair as he talks to Cena - Cena is left looking furious but defeated - Finally Cena speaks and tells Roman Reigns he's lucky Cena can't wrestle anymore, as his first match would have been against the lazy Tribal Chief barking orders to everyone else (rating: 87) Edge & Kevin Owens vs. Bill Goldberg & Rex Steiner In a bout that had fantastic heat and good wrestling, Edge and Kevin Owens defeated Bill Goldberg and Rex Steiner in 17:44 when Edge pinned Rex Steiner after using a foreign object. In terms of in-ring work, Kevin Owens was head and shoulders above everyone else. Rex Steiner was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. (rating: 70) The Rock - The Rock makes his way to the ring - Last night he defeated John Cena to secure himself a match against Roman Reigns - The Rock has shown once again to the millions and millions he's the head of the table - He talks about how his cousin better be ready for his match against The Rock as The Rock is going to show Roman what a real Tribal Chief is - The Rock briefly talks about Cena and says it doesn't matter who his opponent was standing in his way towards Roman - He'd have retired Santa, The Pope, The King of England, The President of the United States, Mickey Mouse to get at Roman Reigns - The Rock officially challenges Roman Reigns at Wrestlemania (rating: 76) Roman Reigns vs. Bobby Lashley In an exceptional match, Roman Reigns defeated Bobby Lashley in 19:54 by pinfall with a Spear. - Crowd were beginning to feel burned out (rating: 59) Hustle, Loyalty and Respect - John Cena's music plays as Roman Reigns celebrates in the ring - He's here to say goodbye to the WWE Universe once and for all - Cena thanks the fans and the WWE for letting him live his dream - Halfway through he stops and looks at the camera - Hope it was really worth it, Rock - Cena leaves his sweatbands, baseball hat and sneakers in the ring - A lone salute at the top of the entrance way as RAW goes off air (rating: 75) Overall Rating: 73

- Ricochet's match against Johnny Gargano on the Royal Rumble pre-show easily the best match in recent WWE history - The Rock leads the merchandise charts, followed by Becky Lynch, Seth Rollins, Daniel Bryan and John Cena - WWE have announced Paige has been fired after it was reported she was accused of bullying a 12 year old on Social Media - There's some uncertainty about John Cena's status within the WWE right now regarding his retirement - Lance Storm has been resigned by the WWE - Zack Gibson's contract with the WWE has come to a mutual end - Matt Cardona (known as Zack Ryder in the WWE) was caught cheating with Velvet Sky, ending his relationship with Chelsea Green and causing a huge fallout between Velvet Sky/Cordona and several female wrestlers - Sparky Ballard opened Squared Circle Wrestling Incorporated in the Mid West

Royal Rumble Saturday, Week 4 January 2023 40,129 @ Minute Maid Park Pre-Show Healing - Joe Gacy is telling R-Truth that the final part of his healing happens tonight against the very ill Elisa/Ezekiel - The confused Elisa is spreading lies and only THE TRUTH WILL SET HIM FREE (rating: 51) Ezekiel vs. R-Truth In a pre-show bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, R-Truth defeated Ezekiel in 9:50 by pinfall with a What's Up? after Joe Gacy interfered. (rating: 50) Aja Kong vs. Big Swole In a terrible pre-show match, Aja Kong defeated Big Swole in 1:45 by pinfall with a Brainbuster. (rating: 32) WWE Cruiserweight Title: Johnny Gargano vs. Ricochet (c) In a pre-show bout that had great wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Ricochet defeated Johnny Gargano in 13:11 by pinfall with a 630° Splash. Ricochet makes defence number three of the WWE Cruiserweight title. - Johnny Gargano and Ricochet have great chemistry and it showed in their performance (rating: 85) WWE IC Title: AJ Styles vs. Theory (c) In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Theory defeated AJ Styles in a Ladder match in 20:14 when Theory retrieved the item after AJ Styles had been taken out by Logan Paul. Theory makes defence number four of the WWE Intercontinental title. - This match got the crowd hotter - This match got the show off to a strong start (rating: 71) Becky talks Rumble - Becky Lynch is backstage - Ever since Asuka used the black mist on her to win the titles all shes been able to think about is recovery... not a physical recovery, not a mental recovery, but recovering ALL THE GOLD. - It'll just make it that bit sweeter if she gets to beat Asuka to regain the titles - Tonight the Royal Rumble is the first step in ensuring she gets a title shot (rating: 81) WWE US Title: Shelton Benjamin vs. Omos (c) In a bout that had good heat but terrible wrestling, Omos defeated Shelton Benjamin in 3:59 by pinfall with a Claw. Omos makes defence number two of the WWE United States title. - Shelton Benjamin and Omos just don't click at all and it showed in their performance (rating: 36) Handshake - After the match Omos goes over to the prone Shelton and offers a hand to help him up - Shelton slaps it away - Omos shrugs and walks off with the US Title (rating: 62) Two out of Three Falls: Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Gunther In a bout that had great wrestling and good heat, Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Gunther in 29:45 by two falls to one after losing the first, with the final fall happening by pinfall with a Kinshasa. - Gunther picked up the first fall - Nakamura picked up the second - The third fall was full of near finishes and calls - Finally Nakamura picked up the third and final fall for the win - This match got the crowd hotter (rating: 78) Steiner and Goldberg - Goldberg tells Steiner if he gets past Edge tonight the training starts tomorrow - Goldberg says he's sorry he waited so long to give something back to the business - Goldberg says whatever happens Steiner is going to have a great feature - Steiner tells Goldberg... HE'S GOLDBERG - Goldberg laughs and says he's a 50 year old man with too much pride (rating: 73) WWE World Tag Titles: Hart Foundation vs. Samoan Hit Squad (c) In a decent match, Samoan Hit Squad defeated Hart Foundation in 12:59 when Solo Sikoa pinned Davey Boy Smith Jr. with a Savate Kick. Samoan Hit Squad make defence number six of the WWE World Tag Team titles. Jacob Fatu carried the match in terms of in-ring performance. (rating: 59) Banger Rumble - Lashley, Sheamus and Drew McIntyre have been watching the show backstage - They share their Royal Rumble numbers with each other and joke about who'll last the longest - Sheamus says he has more stamina - Lashley says he has better drive - Drew McIntyre says he's bigger - Maybe I'll throw you out - AyE?! Maybe I'll throw you out! - I'LL THRW YOU BOTH OUT! - Last man standing wins! (rating: 79) Edge vs. Goldberg In a bout that had fantastic heat and good wrestling, Bill Goldberg defeated Edge in 6:08 by pinfall with a roll up. (rating: 69) Edge Attacks - Goldberg looks to be struggling - Edge kicks him down and grabs a chair - Conchairto time?! - Edge is winding up... - REX STEINER IN FOR THE SAVE! (rating: 61) Lumberjack Match: Alexa Bliss & Liv Morgan vs. Scarlett Bordeaux & Queen Zelina In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Scarlett Bordeaux and Queen Zelina defeated Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan in 9:51 when Queen Zelina pinned Alexa Bliss, illegally using the ropes for leverage. In terms of in-ring work, Alexa Bliss was head and shoulders above everyone else. (rating: 52) The Cardinal - The Cardinal at ringside climb into the ring - Scarlet and Zelina are standing over Bliss and Morgan - He showed you, he doesn't care! - Join us, join The Cardinal, let us purge the corrpution of Bray Wyatt from you both - Bliss looks at Morgan, Morgan shakes her head - Bliss looks like she's going to join them but Morgan pulls her back - The lights go out - Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan remain in the ring alone when the lights come back on (rating: 63) Video Hype - A recap of The Rock and Cena's history - It shows Wrestlemania 28 and 29 - The dislike they have for each other - Before focusing on the build up for tonight's match (rating: 73) John Cena vs. The Rock In a bout that had fantastic heat and great wrestling, The Rock defeated John Cena in 15:19 by pinfall with The People's Elbow. - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 61) Cena Loses - The Rock looks at John Cena who is sitting against the Turnbuckle - Cena's career is over - The Rock helps Cena to his feet - I had to do this, for my family - The Rock leaves, looking pissed - Cena is in the ring as the crowd chant CENA CENA CENA - His career is over (rating: 81) Royal Rumble In a bout that had great heat and decent wrestling, Becky Lynch won a Royal Rumble in 59:39. The other members of the 'final four' were Seth Rollins, Rhea Ripley and Cody Rhodes, with Seth Rollins being the final elimination. Rhea Ripley got the most eliminations over the course of the match; Becky Lynch set the record for surviving the longest. The match also had a lot of interference: Aja Kong targeted Becky, Shayna Baszler attacked Becky, Asuka attacked Becky, and finally Bray Wyatt interfered against Rhodes. Becky Lynch wins the Royal Rumble. Becky Lynch wins the Women's Royal Rumble. - A surprise return of Rhea Ripley! - The lights went out and when they came back on Bray Wyatt was in the ring - He attacked Cody Rhodes and threw him over the top rope - Seth Rollins and Becky Lynch worked together to eliminate Rhea Ripley - Leaving Rollins and Lynch as the final two - Rollins kissed Becky Lynch and then eliminated himself! (rating: 69) Road to Wrestlemania - Becky celebrates in the ring with the trademark point at the Wrestlemania sign (rating: 69) Overall Rating: 71

WWE Royal Rumble Royal Rumble The first ever Empress Rumble. 15 Men and 15 Women all compete in the same Rumble. Becky Lynch has entered at #1 and is determined to see her way through the pack to gain a shot at the title at Wrestlemania. The Rock vs. John Cena The Rock is on a mission to prove himself as the real Tribal Chief, but Roman Reigns says the honor isn't something that can taken... it must be earned. If The Rock wants to face Roman Reigns, he must first defeat John Cena. Roman Reigns holds John Cena's career in his hands after beating him at Summerslam in a career v title match. Roman has told Cena, if Cena can beat The Rock at Royal Rumble his contract will be returned to him... if he loses, Cena will never get another chance to regain control of his WWE contract and must retire. Alexa Bliss & Liv Morgan vs. Scarlett Bordeaux & Queen Zelina Scarlett Bordeaux and Queen Zelina have been taunting Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan over the last few weeks about Bray Wyatt's apparent abandonment of the pair. Bliss and Morgan still believe that Bray will be there for them. To prove their point Bliss and Morgan take on Bordeaux and Zelina in a Lumberjack match with members of The Cardinal at ringside. Edge vs. Goldberg When Bret Hart retired as Smackdown GM he made one last contractual obligation - if Goldberg ever lost a competative match in the WWE, he'd be forced to retire. Since that change was made Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn have placed an open bounty on Goldberg, many have tried to claim it but none have succeeded. Edge believes himself to be the Last Superstar of the Attitude Era, and to prove it will end Goldberg's career. WWE World Tag Titles: Hart Foundation vs. Samoan Hit Squad (c) Two out of Three Falls: Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Gunther Ever since Nakamura beat Gunther, Gunther has been studying Nakamura's matches to find a way to beat STRONG STYLE. It's currently 1-0 to the King of Strong Style, can the European Powerhouse claim back a victory? WWE US Title: Shelton Benjamin vs. Omos (c) Since winning the WWE US Title Omos has been proving that not all giants are big and scary creatures. He's been helpful and kind to those around him. Shelton Benjamin on the other hand thinks Omos is just a big dumb idiot and should let a real wrestler have the US Title. On RAW Shelton and Cedric ambushed MACE before a tag match leaving Omos in a 2v1. With the number advantages on their side, they were able to wear down Omos, before trapping his leg in a steal chair. It appeared they had broken Omos' ankle. Unable to defend this title Shelton demanded it be handed over. It looked like Omos was about to that as he came down to the ring in a wheelchair... but it was a trick! As Shelton celebrated, Omos rose from the wheelchair, removed his cast and powerbombed Cedric. WWE IC Title: AJ Styles vs. Theory (c) WWE IC Champion Theory believes AJ Styles has wasted his career wrestling elsewhere and is now just a shadow of his former self in the WWE. Basically... he's past it. AJ still feels he has gas in the tank and is ready to teach the young upstart a thing or two about stealing the show. Pre-Show WWE Cruiserweight Title: Johnny Gargano vs. Ricochet (c) Aja Kong vs. Big Swole

WWE SmackDown Friday, Week 4 January 2023 7,379 @ Stormont Vail Events Center Commentary Team: Nigel McGuinness, Steve Austin and Mauro Ranallo Asuka Decision - WWE Board of Directors representative Stephanie McMahon is already in the ring as the show starts - She is here to update us on the Board of Director's decision regarding Asuka after she used the banned black liquid again - The WWE Board of Directors have decided, after taking into account Becky Lynch's appeal, that Asuka will NOT be fired - All WWE wrestlers Asuka has 'banished' have been reinstated back on the active roster - Tonight Askua, Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler will face Bayley, Becky Lynch and Bianca Belair in a 3v3 match - Starting next Monday on RAW, Asuka will have to defend her titles 1v1, any interference from The Empire will result in a DQ and the Asuka LOSING the titles - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 75) The Ring Fills - Asuka's music plays as the WWE Undisputed and WWE Women's World Champion storms down to the ring - Asuka is pacing around Stephanie McMahon - Black liquid is dripping from her mouth - ... but her attack is stopped by Becky Lynch's music - Becky Lynch, Bayley and Bianca Belair charge into the ring - Asuka slides out as the rest of The Empire appear at the entrance ramp - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 95) WWE Cruiserweight Title: El Hijo del Fantasma vs. Ricochet (c) In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Ricochet defeated El Hijo del Fantasma in 10:27 by pinfall with a 630° Splash. Ricochet makes defence number two of the WWE Cruiserweight title. (rating: 77) Pupil - Rex Steiner is backstage - He's approached by Bill Goldberg - Steiner, you've got a lot of talent, kid. - I know you can become something huge in this business - I don't know how much longer I've got left, but let me teach you a few things. Watcha say, kid? - Rex Steiner and Bill Goldberg do a clasping hi-5 of agreement - Looks like Goldberg has himself a pupil... (rating: 82) Backstage - Becky Lynch is getting ready for the 3v3 later to - ATTACK! - Lynch is attacked by The Empire! - Aja Kong, Shayna Baszler and Askua are attacking Becky Lynch - Becky is left beaten as Seth Rollins runs into frame for the save - The Empire have left - Aja Kong looked lost out there - Shayna Baszler performed poorly in this segment (rating: 78) Davey Boy Smith Jr. vs. Gunther In a decent match, Gunther defeated Davey Boy Smith Jr. in 9:36 by pinfall with a Powerbomb. (rating: 69) What's my problem? - Paige is doing a backstage interview - She's replying to Allie, who Paige has taken a dislike to over the last few weeks - Paige says its simple... I'm just a bitch - Paige says she hates all the other divas, simply because they're in her way, taking away time that should be hers... and nobody, not some little Diva like Allie, will change that (rating: 58) Euro Style - Gunther's music plays again tonight - He makes his way down to the ring - He's already shown tonight the prowess of European wrestling - Gunther is going to stay ringside to see what Nakamura has to offer (rating: 68) Giovanni Vinci vs. Shinsuke Nakamura In a decent match, Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Giovanni Vinci in 18:29 by pinfall with a Kinshasa. (rating: 70) Strong Style vs. European - Nakamura points a finger at Gunther, while he stands over the defeated Giovanni - Gunther steps into the ring, but Nakamura doesn't looked phased - Gunther is clapping - Tomorrow at the Royal Rumble they will battle like the titans they are - Gunther says he will reclaim his glory by defeating Nakamura, he's seen enough now to understand Strong Style and how to defeat it - Nakamura points a finger to his own head as if pulling a trigger and says he is STRONG STYLE (rating: 68) Bayley, Bianca Belair vs. The Empire (Asuka, Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler) In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, The Empire (Shayna Baszler, Aja Kong and Asuka) defeated Bayley, Bianca Belair and Becky Lynch in 19:35 when Asuka pinned Bianca Belair with a handful of tights. Becky Lynch was added to the match midway through. - It was announced before the match that Becky Lynch had suffered an injury earlier in the night at the hands of The Empire and wouldn't be able to compete - ... until she appeared, still injured, halfway through the match to turn the 2v3 back into the 3v3! - Becky mainly battled Aja Kong with the pair disappearing backstage still fighting each other, turning the match into a 2v2 - Asuka stole the win and left quickly with Shayna Baszler (rating: 71) ... IF YA SMELL - The Rock is here! - He's talking about his match against John Cena tomorrow at the Royal Rumble - It will be the third time The Rock and Cena have fought each other, the first time happened Wrestlemania 28, which The Rock won. A rematch at Wrestlemania 29 was won by Cena. This will be the decider! - The Rock reminds everyone of the lack of respect Cena and The Rock have for each other - It doesn't matter if... - BRAPAPSLLPADOH - John Cena's music plays interrupting The Rock - He comes out alone and stands face-to-face with The Rock - Cena reminds everyone whats at stake tomorrow night - If Cena wins, his WWE contract and career is back in his own hands... if he loses... its over - The Rock tells Cena none of that matters, as tomorrow is about respect, not between Cena and The Rock, but The Rock and The Bloodline - Respect? Cena tells The Rock, The Rock doesn't know anything about respect - The Rock does the eyebrow (rating: 100) The Greatest WWE Superstar - The Rock says Cena is just in the wrong place at the wrong time, and if it means ending his career for good then that's what he'll do to get his match against Roman Reigns - There's aggressive finger pointing and chest stabbing between the pair now as the back and forth continues - Cena tells The Rock that he's going to be disappointed, as not only will Cena regain his contract but he'll show everyone that he is the greatest WWE Superstar by beating The Rock 2-1 - The Rock Slaps CENA! (rating: 100) BRAWL - The Rock and Cena brawl! - Officials flood the ring to try and seperate them, but are pushed back as another brawl breaks out - Roman Reigns can be seen smiling at the entrance way, looking very pleased with himself as the show ends (rating: 78) Overall Rating: 83

WWE RAW Monday, Week 4 January 2023 LIVE FROM STORMONT VAIL EVENTS CENTER (7,259) Commentary: Mauro Ranallo, Michael Cole & Pat McAfee A Firing - The show opens with Stephanie McMahon in the ring - The WWE Board of Directors have made a difficult a decision - She would like to invite Asuka to the ring - Asuka's music plays as she makes her way to the ring, showcasing the WWE Women's World Title and the WWE Undisputed Title - Asuka circles around Stephanie McMahon - Asuka, after your actions on WWE Smackdown last week, the WWE Board of Directors have been left with the no choice but to strip you of the WWE Women's World Title and the WWE Undisputed Title... and terminate your contract - Asuka stops dead in her tracks, face-to-face with Stephanie McMahon - Asuka, you left us with no choice, we warned you if you used that black mist again and endangered the long-term health of one of our WWE Superstars, we would have to fire you... - Stephanie McMahon did a masterful job of improvising - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 85) Fire an Empress? - Asuka remains face-to-face with Stephanie McMahon and raises her titles high - You think you can 'terminate' an Empress? - Asuka laughs - Stephanie McMahon tells Asuka there was no other option and requests she hand over the WWE titles - Asuka lowers the titles and holds them out towards Stephanie McMahon - Stephanie McMahon attempts to take them but Asuka's grip is iron like and can't be broken - Asuka smiles, tilting her head to one side as black ooze comes from her mouth - Stephanie McMahon scrambles backwards in fear - The performance of Asuka was good - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 75) A Request - Slap, Slap, Slap Pound Up Down Snap - Becky Lynch makes her way to the ring - Asuka spins as if to confront her - Becky slides in and helps Stephanie McMahon to her feet - Steph, Steph, am begging ya, please, don't fire Asuka... I need to fight her - Asuka remains smiling, her eyes locked on Stephanie McMahon and Becky Lynch - Stephanie McMahon tells Becky that the decision has already been made - Becky says all she thought about during her recovery, the one thing that motivated her more than anything else, was the feeling of getting back in the ring to kick Asuka's arse - Asuka couldn't beat me, Asuka CANNOT beat me, without that bloody black mist - Asuka laughs - Laugh all you want sunshine, but you know it and I know it, you had to damn well paralyze me to pin me at Clash of Champions - Can you do it without the black mist? - Stephanie McMahon is speaking, OK, I'll speak to the WWE Board of Directors and see if we can reach a compromise - Stephanie McMahon is stand in the middle of Asuka and Becky Lynch (rating: 88) WWE Cruiserweight Title: Angel Garza vs. Ultimo Ninja vs. Ultimo Dragon vs. Ricochet (c) In a decent match, Ricochet defeated Ultimo Ninja, Ultimo Dragon and Angel Garza in 9:46 when Ricochet pinned Ultimo Ninja with a 630° Splash. Ricochet makes defence number one of the WWE Cruiserweight title. Ultimo Dragon was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. - Ricochet and Angel Garza seemed to take it personally to 'steal the show' in this one - Angel Garza and Ultimo Ninja worked together for most of the 4-Way - Ultimo Dragon was really off his game - Ricochet benefitted from having a hot new move - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 67) Banger after Banger - Sheamus, Drew McIntyre and Bobby Lashley are sitting backstage drinking together, having watched the Cruiserweight match on a big screen - Sheamus: Y'know, I wish I could fly around the ring like that - Drew: You daft, big lad, you starting flying around the ring like that and people are going to think there's a big old ginger UFO invading - Lashley: People like us aren't meant to fly, we're meant to brawl and slap... which I've shown already to be the best at - Sheamus and Drew spit their beer out - WHAT?! - Drew: Early days there, Bobby, man, don't go out and by yourself a wee cup just yet - Lashley: I need to show you again? - Lashley stands up and knocks over Drew and Sheamus' beers as he walks away - Drew and Sheamus watch him leave - Drew: He knocked your beer over - Sheamus: and yours - Drew and Sheamus look at each other - Bobby Lashley looked good - Sheamus used subtle mannerisms to hint at a future face turn (rating: 86) Wheeling - The camera follows Bobby Lashley walking backstage, but stops to focus on Mace pushing Omos through the corridor in a wheelchair - Omos' leg is still in a cast from Shelton Benjamin and Cedric's attack two weks ago (rating: 58) Believe me, Truth - The camera is back on Bobby Lashley again then stops as it catches R-Truth and Eliza in a discussion - Truth doesn't look happy - You clownin' me? Joe Gacy is the best thing to ever happen to me, I'm winning again - He can't be trusted, Truth. Gacy isn't what he seems, he's corrupting people - Truth slaps Eliza around the face - For the first time in over a decade Truth looks very pissed off and angry as he walks away from a stunned Eliza (rating: 57) Open Challenge - Bobby Lashley is in the ring - He throws out an open challenge to any big man in the WWE who thinks they can last 10 minutes in the ring - Damian Priest's music plays - It's banging time (rating: 72) Bobby Lashley vs. Damian Priest In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Bobby Lashley defeated Damian Priest in 10:26 by submission with The Hurt Lock. - A wild brawl of a match - Bobby Lashley the better performer (rating: 64) Back from Break - Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander are in the ring - They're calling out WWE US Champion, Omos - Shelton says there's no way Omos can defend his title with a broken leg - Just like last week they said last week, they want Omos to come out here and hand over to the title - Cedric says the message musn't have reached Omos' big dumb head yet - Cedric mocks Omos giant frame - Omos' music plays as MACE pushes the wheelchair down towards the ring - Omos struggles to leave the chair and get into the ring with his broken leg (rating: 57) Handing over of the WWE US Title - Shelton mockingly applauds Omos - It's time for a new WWE US champion, one that isn't a big old dumb giant - Omos looks sad - You know, Shelton, I really don't like it when people call me dumb - People have always treat me differently because I'm tall, they think I'm slow - "THEY. THINK. I. AM. SLOW!" Cedric mocks Omos and walks like a robot - Shelton and Cedric are laughing... and don't notice... - Omos splits his cast in two... was it fake all along?! - Omos says, But I was smart enough to fool you two - Shelton and Cedric turn to face Omos (rating: 52) Omos Rises - Omos and MACE attack Cedric who was too slow to get out of the ring - Shelton Benjamin leaves in a hurry - Omos hits Cedric with a spinning lariat - Shelton looks scared - Omos points to the the US title, you want this? Fight me at Royal Rumble! (rating: 53) Back from Break - Cody Rhodes' music plays - He's so pleased to be back IN the ring again - He says he's keen to make up for lost time and work out the ring rust - He felt like his career might not recover from his injury - The Empress Rumble is the perfect chance to slingshot him back to the top (rating: 69) Otis vs. Cody Rhodes In a bout that had great heat and decent wrestling, Cody Rhodes defeated Otis in 17:47 when Otis was disqualified when Bray Wyatt ran in and attacked Cody Rhodes. - A storytelling match highlight on Cody Rhodes regain his ring speed against the stronger, more physical Otis - The longer the match went on the quicker and more confident Cody became - As the match neared the end the lights went out and a single lantern could be seen at the entrance way held by Bo Wyatt - Bray Wyatt used the distraction to attack Cody Rhodes from behind (rating: 67) Husky Harris can't forget - Cody Rhodes remains prone inside the ring as Bray and Bo Wyatt stand over him - The lights are still off and the ring is lit with a single spotlight - Bray says, a long time ago in another life and body there was a young hopefully man - One full of dreams floating on Stardust to continue his family legacy, to make his father proud, to make his brother proud, to make his sisters proud - His name was Husky Harris - Husky was an innocent soul just looking to be accepted, he knew he wasn't the quickest, or the fittest, or the most attractive man in NXT - But he was the most willing, the most open, the most eager to learn and to please - He would do anything his mentor would say - But his mentor was a cruel man, a man bitter and jealous, not of Husky Harris exactly, but of himself and his own family - How could this young man mentor someone when he lacked the self-confidence in himself to be who he wanted to be - He was the son and brother of a WWE legacy - So he took that pain out on poor Husky and poor Husky took that abuse, even though he could feel his soul turn to ash - The army tank with a ferrari engine... - You see, Cody Rhodes, while many may have forgotten poor Husky Harris, Husky Harris has not forgotten - His pain, his embarrasment, his torment still lives on deep within me - THE ELIMINATION FROM NXT, THE BODY SHAMING -- YOU CREATED THIS, YOU CREATED THIS - Your failure opened up a small box that I never knew existed - Thank you, for your failures - Bray Wyatt was a real star in this segment - Bray Wyatt is getting better at his gimmick (rating: 72) Backstage - Logan Paul, Riddle and WWE IC Champion Theory are laughing backstage about something - They stop as they see Jacob Fatu leave The Bloodlines private suite - Yo, Fatu my guy, did you hear what AJ said about your family - Riddle and Theory look at each other as Logan Paul speaks before catching on - Oh yeah, brah, AJ was like... those Samoans... - Theory nods - Am just saying my man, if someone said that about my fa... - Jacob Fatu raises his hand and walks off - The camera catches Fatu superkicking some random backstage tech person in anger - Logan Paul, Theory and Riddle laugh and hi-five each other in between their 'brahs' - The performance of Logan Paul was fantastic - Theory performaned poorly in this segment (rating: 81) Edge's Challenge - At the Royal Rumble this Sunday I'm going to end Bill Goldberg's career - His time is over and I will be the true last hero of the Attitude Era - You can all boo me, you think I care? - You used to cheer me because I fell through tables and jumped off ladders - But then I grew wise to you all, all you sadists - I don't care who it is tonight, I want someone out here so you call witness just what's going to happen to Goldberg - Edge dumps the mic and leaves (rating: 68) J-Pop Time - Maki Itoh's music begins to play as she does a live performance of her own entrance song - Its very J-Pop and sickeningly cute - Hikaru Shida shrugs as she walks down to the ring as her partner (rating: 50) Kaitlyn & Naomi vs. Hikaru Shida & Maki Itoh In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Hikaru Shida and Maki Itoh defeated Kaitlyn and Naomi in 12:45 when Maki Itoh pinned Kaitlyn with a Flying Big Head. Kaitlyn was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. This match was part of the 'WWE Women's World Tag Titles' tournament. - As planned, this match brought the fans back down a little (rating: 57) Backstage - Alex Bliss and Liv Morgan have something to say - They know that Bray Wyatt is still there for them that they're still part of his family - They can feel his love... even if he hasn't shown to save them from The Cardinal - ...even if he is focused on other things - ... even if he didn't ask them to join him to attack Cody Rhodes... - The performance of Alexa Bliss was fantastic - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 57) Fatu - Jacob Fatu is in the ring - AJ STYLES... you run your mouth about The Bloodline? - You want to run your ass to this ring, right now, so I can run my foot up it (rating: 71) The Bros - Logan Paul, Theory and Riddle make their way down to the ring before AJ - ... and takeover at the announcing table?! (rating: 61) Jacob Fatu vs. AJ Styles In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Jacob Fatu drew with AJ Styles in 20:06 following a double disqualification. - Having nobody with announcing experience made the match come off badly - The focus was taken away from the match as the Logan Paul, Riddle and Theory joked and blundered their way through commentry - Ruining a surprisingly good match (rating: 46) Old Man AJ - Logan Paul, Theory and Riddle continue their attack on AJ Styles (rating: 71) Edge vs. Mansoor In a bout that had great heat and decent wrestling, Edge defeated Mansoor in 12:59 by pinfall with a Spear. (rating: 53) You're Next - Edge tells Goldberg HE'S NEXT (rating: 74) Overall Rating: 71

WWE SmackDown Friday, Week 3 January 2023 Live from US Cellular Center! (5,840) Commentary Team: Mauro Ranallo, Stone Cold Steve Austin & Nigel McGuinness Final Countdown - Final Countdown by Europe plays as Daniel Bryan makes his way to the ring - No longer masked or the WWE Cruiserweight champion - He holds up his hands - Look, I know I'm supposed to be banished and all that... but I had something to say... - Asuka, I think you're one of the best wrestlers out there - man or woman, I really do - But that's just it... you're one of the best, not THE best. Sure you beat me last week, but it took the help of your empire-- - Asuka's music plays - Daniel, I beat you, now you dishonour me by appearing in my ring - You do not think I am best in the world? - Asuka holds up her titles - And these titles say Asuka is the best - Your return to the WWE is short lived - But... maybe I can think of a challenge for you to redeem yourself - Asuka leaves - Daniel Bryan remains in the ring looking at the crowd, wondering what the challenge could be - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 86) IC Title: Mustafa Ali vs. Theory (c) In a bout that had good heat and decent wrestling, Theory defeated Mustafa Ali in 14:36 by pinfall with a Standing Moonsault. Theory makes defence number three of the WWE Intercontinental title. - AJ Styles was on commentry - AJ talked about how Theory had an excited future ahead of him, but lacked direction and respect - AJ was asked about Logan Paul, Riddle and Theory's comments that AJ was 'past it' - Styles said he'd out perform any of those three in a 1v1 - Styles went on to say the Intercontinental title is one of the few titles he's never won - The announcing quality lifted the match - Highlighting the speed and chained moves of both Mustafa Ali and Theory - This match got the crowd buzzing - Both wrestlers tried their best to steal the show (rating: 70) Wasted Career - After the match IC Champion Theory remained in the ring and tauned AJ Styles - He patted the IC championship and took his pulse, I can still go, Styles! - Logan Paul and Riddle appeared at the entrance - Logan Paul said AJ Styles had the best seats in the house to witness one of the future backbones of the WWE - Logan Paul turned his attention to the crowd - All of you sitting on your asses know its true, you're jealous of the reality - We're naturally gifted, we're at a level most of you can't even dream of, and here we are without even trying - I was a youtuber - completed it. Boxing? Completed it. WWE... Completing it - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 72) Raquel Rodriguez vs. Paige In a bout that had good heat and decent wrestling, Raquel Rodriguez defeated Paige in 9:44 by pinfall with a Tequila Shot after a distraction from Allie. - Allie emerged from the crowd, dressed as a playboy bunny with distorted make up (rating: 56) Empress Rumble - Becky Lynch is in the ring - She wants to talk about The Empress Rumble - You really think putting me in at Number 1 will stop me, Asuka? - I think you're forgetting who you're dealing with... I'm the man - Man or woman I'll throw them all out, to get my hands on you - A month of rehab, because of that black mist - A month of brewing over losing all the gold, because you couldn't beat me without paralyzing me first (rating: 90) The Empire - Aja Kong, Rhea Ripley and Shayna Baszler (The Empire) make their way to the ring - Asuka's eyes are locked on Becky Lynch - Lynch doesn't move from the ring - BECKY LYNCH IS BRAWLING THEM ALL! - The Empire can't find a way into the ring as Becky Lynch keeps them back - Eventually The Empire storm the ring at the same time and outnumber Becky Lynch - Bayley! Bayley! Bayley runs down to join Becky Lynch! (rating: 68) Outnumbered - Becky and Bayley do their best to fight off The Empire - But they're outnuymbered 2v3 - Eventually The Empire wear Bayley and Becky down - Asuka makes her entrance as Rhea Ripley and Aja Kong restrain Bayley and Becky (rating: 81) Asuka - Rhea Ripley holds Becky Lynch up - Aja Kong holds Bayley up - Asuka is walking and glaring back and forth between Bayley and Becky - Asuka smiles and black liquid drools from her mouth - BLACK MIST ATTACK! - Becky ducks her head just in time - The black mist hits Rhea Ripley straight in the face!! - Asuka scrambles to wipe it from Rhea Ripley's face - The rest of The Empire are calling for the medic team and the trainer - Becky Lynch and Bayley make their exit - Rhea Ripley is escorted backstage by the medic team - It appears as though her legs are getting weaker the further she walks (rating: 70) What is your problem? - Paige is doing an interview backstage - She wants to know what Allie's problem is (rating: 67) Hikaru Shida & Maki Itoh vs. Natalya & Tamina In a decent match, Hikaru Shida and Maki Itoh defeated Natalya & Tamina in 13:24 when Hikaru Shida pinned Tamina with a Tamashii no Three Count. Tamina was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. Retribution - Asuka marches into the ring, Maki Itoh and Hikaru Shida cut their celebrations short and quickly exit - Asuka is furious - Bayley you will pay the price for Becky Lynch's mistake - I need blood, I need retribution for what happened to Rhea Ripley - Becky Lynch and Bayley make a joint enterance - Becky wonders if Asuka is too scared to challenge her - Bayley says what happened to Rhea Ripley was Asuka's own doing - Becky tells Asuka that title or no title, she will face Asuka soon enough (rating: 90) Bait - Asuka challenges Bayley again - Why should I fight you now? I have nothing to gain - Asuka takes off the WWE Women's World Title and places it on the floor in the middle of the ring - Asuka says does this not entice you a little? Or is my fury too much for you? (rating: 85) WWE Women's World Title: Bayley vs. Asuka (c) In a bout that had fantastic heat and great wrestling, Asuka defeated Bayley in 23:28 by pinfall with a Spin Kick. Asuka makes defence number two of the WWE Women's title. - Becky Lynch joined the commentry team - Becky Lynch was pretty weak at the announcing desk - Bayley seemed off her game (rating: 81) Off The Air - As Smackdown goes off the air Asuka holds her titles high, while looking at Becky Lynch (rating: 73) Overall Rating: 82

WWE RAW 30th Anniversary Special Asuka Appreciation Night Monday, Week 3 January 2023 LIVE FROM HAWAII Commentary Team: Michael Cole, Mauro Ranallo & Pat McAfee RAW 30th - Show opens with a montage of different RAW openings with modern and classic graphics spliced together - Stephanie McMahon is in the ring - She looks very pleased - WELCOME TO THE 30TH ANNIVERSARY OF MONDAY NIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIGHT RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAW - For 30 years the WWE fans have tuned in and attended to watch WW... - Asuka's music plays (rating: 74) The Empire - Asuka, Rhea Ripley, Shayna Baszler and Aja Kong make their way to the ring (rating: 65) Asuka Appreciation Night - Asuka is holding the WWE Undisputed, WWE Women's World and the WWE Cruiserweight titles - The Empire surrounding Stephanie McMahon - Asuka holds out her hand waiting for Stephanie McMahon to put the microphone in it - Shayna Baszler nudges McMahon - Asuka says Stephanie McMahon must have bad memory - Tonight isn't a celebration for 30 years of RAW... Tonight is a celebration of THE EMPRESS! - Another intro plays, this time its a splice of Auska's greatest moments in the WWE from her time in NXT right up to defeating Becky Lynch for All the Gold at Night of Champions - Asuka lauds in the reaction from the crowd - Asuka says that is better, a true wrestling Empress deserves to have monuments to her greatness to last across history - Stephanie McMahon begins to protest but is stopped by Rhea Ripley who puts a finger to McMahon's lips - Asuka shouts at Stephanie McMahon, NEVER INTERRUPT... or I will... - Asuka smiles as black liquid oozes from her mouth - Stephanie shouts that that was banned and Asuka will be fined and stripped of the titles if she ever uses it again - Asuka tells Stephanie to relax - The WWE Cruiserweight title has been removed from Asuka, as she places in the middle of the ring - I am a kind Empress, tonight I will give five wrestlers a chance at winning some gold of their own... as we have a WWE Cruiserweight Scramble match... - Asuka was a real star - Aja Kong looked dreadful - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 66) Becky and Seth! - Asuka is distracted by the music of Becky Lynch as Lynch and Seth Rollins make their entrance - Asuka is furious - The Empire are all standing on the ropes pointing at Becky and Seth - Stephanie McMahon makes an exit while they're not looking (rating: 67) Empress Rumble - Oh, we interrupting something... ya Empress? - Ya see, we thought we'd make it clear... we want in on the Rumble - Asuka laughs, you think I'll let you into the Empress Rumble? - Becky is walking back and forth across the entrance stage - Asuka, I really thought you'd take up the challenge - Chalenge? The only way you'll get into the Empress Rumble is if you start Number 1.. - DEAL! - ... and Seth Rollins as number 2 - Asuka laughs, that way you'll have to eliminate one another to get to me - Asuka looks very pleased with herself - By the way, Becky, I like what you've done to your hair - Becky Lynch's hair has a black streak from the black mist attack at Night of Champions - Becky points to her hair, oh this little thing? Just a reminder of the months I had to work to regain my coordination after you tried to paralyse me with that black mist of yours - But y'know, Asuka, I can't wait for the Rumble... how about tonight me and a few of the girls you've 'banished' lately team up against you and you're tinpot Empire over there... - Asuka smiles, black liquid drooling from her mouth - OK, Becky Lynch... we can do that, but if you lose... everybody better be ready to say "Bye Bye Becky", no Empress Rumble... only banished! - Asuka looked good - Becky Lynch was a real star - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 97) Bad Time? - Music the WWE hasn't heard for a few months plays... It's former RAW General Manager Cody Rhodes - I'm sorry is this a bad time? - I heard talk of recovery and places in this Empress Royal Rumble were being handed out - I couldn't help myself, I just had to say 'Hi, my name is Cody Rhodes, my pec has healed' - Cody stops and looks at Seth Rollins - No hard feelings by the way Seth - Cody offers out a hand - There's a pause... and Seth shakes it - Asuka looks amused - How cute, everyone big old family. Time for a group hug? - Cody says family is important to him, but now isn't the time to talk about that. Now is the time to talk about regaining his momentum as they approach the RHODE to Wrestlemania - So how about it, Asuka... Cody Rhodes in your Empress Rumble? - Asuka says Cody comes asking for favour, yet offer nothing in return - Cody says Asuka keeps asking to be entertained, so how about he entertains her tonight with a match - Asuka smiles, I think I like you - Becky looks at Cody, Don't you go thinking for a second you're going to get in ma'way - I'm going to win the Rumble, I'm going to face Asuka at Wrestlemania - Camera focuses on Asuka as it fades out to break - Asuak was a real star - The performance of Becky Lynch was fantastic - Seth Rollins was very poor when trying to improvise (rating: 84) Ring Announcer: The following match is a WWE Cruiserweight Scramble Match, as hosted by our Benevolant Empress, Asuka, who has so kindly vacated the WWE Cruiserweight title for our entertainment. The first wrestler to claim the WWE Cruiserweight title suspended above the ring will be THE NEW WWE Cruiserweight Champion. WWE Cruiserweight Scramble: Angel Garza vs. Mustafa Ali vs. Rey Mysterio vs. Ricochet vs. Johnny Gargano In a bout that had good wrestling and a decent reaction from the crowd, Ricochet defeated Mustafa Ali, Rey Mysterio, Angel Garza and Johnny Gargano in a Ladder match in 19:58 when Ricochet retrieved the item. Ricochet wins the WWE Cruiserweight title. - All five wrestlers went out to try and steal the show - There wasn't much between them in terms of performance, but Ricochet and Mustafa Ali slightly out shined Gargano, Mysterio and Garza - Michael Cole and Pat McAfee worked extremely well together at the announcer's table - This match got the crowd buzzing (rating: 69) Stroll Back - Cody Rhodes is backstage when Finn Balor stops him - You think you can just stroll back in here and try to get a title shot - You think I've forgotten about your time as General Manager? You think other wrestlers have forgot? No chance - Cody smiles, look I'll be the first to admit I wasn't the best General Manager... I'm twice the wrestler... always have been and always will be - Balor laughs, you know Cody you have some nerve... you act like you're part of some royal wrestling family, but the truth is you're a bandit - You reused my ideas, my brillance to inflat your own reputation while you were away from the WWE - Cody looks Balor dead in the eyes, oh is that true - Bullet Club, The Elite... big bold face paint... oh wait, that thing on your neck - Cody pushes away, ok ok, I get the idea, how about we sort this out tonight in the ring (rating: 81) Video Update - The Viking Experience, Erik and Ivar haven't been seen for a while - The reason is they've been on an epic quest to regain their vigor - HELLO WWE PATRONS, WE HAVE HAD RAVENS TELL US OF THE DARK TIDES THAT ARE SWIRLING IN THE MISTS - A TIME WHERE LOTS OF DARK, SPOOKY PEOPLE SEEM TO BE CREEPY - SO WE HAVE TAKEN IT AS OUR QUEST TO FIND A HERO TO BRING BACK LIGHT TO THE WWE! - WE SHALL NOT RETURN UNTIL WE HAVE FOUND SOMEONE WHO CAN EMBODY THE SPIRIT OF THOR AND BRING THE TIME OF HEROES TO THE WWE! (rating: 36) The Bounty - Edge approaches Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn - Hey, I thought I said I would claim the bounty on Goldberg? - Sure, Edge, you can, its still there - Edge asks why did they let Corbin try to claim it? - Edge... its first come, first serve, friend. First person to end Goldberg's career is going to get the bounty - Edge looks frustrated, then its time I stepped up my game - All three of them say "As I'm the last superstar of the attitude era" - Edge gives Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn a dead look - They hold up their hands - The performance of Kevin Owens was good (rating: 76) Davey Boy Smith Jr. & Brian Pillman Jr. vs. Aleistar Black & Dominik Dijakovic In a decent match, Aleister Black and Dominik Dijakovic defeated Hart Foundation in 15:08 when Aleister Black pinned Davey Boy Smith Jr. with a Black Mass. - Davey Boy Smith Jr. and Brian Pillman Jr. showed excellent chemistry teaming together - Aleistar Black and Dominik Dijakovic had great chemistry when teaming together - The announcing quality lifted the match - Ranallo, Cole and McAfee talked about the heritage of Davey Boy Smith Jr. and Brian Pillman Jr. and why it might have caused the ire of The Cardinal - A slow paced match, with lots of ad-lib crowd interactions playing up The Cardinal's desire to end the Neopotism of Davey Boy and Brian Pillman - As planned, this match brought the fans back down a little (rating: 60) Sick Man - We're backstage in Joe Gacy's Psychology Office - R-Truth is wondering what that was all about last week with Ezekiel - Gacy says Ezekiel is a very sick man, confused and deeply disturbed to the point he believes he's his own brother... and often dresses up as his entire family - It's a tragic tale of trauma warping the mind into coping with loss - Nothing to worry about - R-Truth stares blankly at Gacy - ... You clownin me?! That fool needs slapped upside the head - Gacy lets out a sly smile at Truth's somewhat aggressive response - Gacy tells Truth just focus on his next match, as next week is a big part of Truth's treatment into regaining his focus and himself (rating: 44) Injured - MACE is wheeling WWE US Champion Omos through the backstage area - Omos' leg is in a cast from last week's attack at the hands of Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander - The WWE US title is in Omos' lap - Will be able to defend it? (rating: 62) Mentor - Rex Steiner is sitting backstage watching RAW with the rest of the locker room - Goldberg sits next to him - They claps hands in a hi-five - Goldberg says, Hey kid you did well against Sheamus on Smackdown - Steiner nods thanks man, appreciate it - I can help you get better, so next time you can beat him - Hell yeah, getting trained by Goldberg? I'm in - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 78) Jinder Mahal vs. R-Truth In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but terrible wrestling, R-Truth defeated Jinder Mahal in 8:17 by pinfall after Joe Gacy interfered. - R-Truth was struggling to beat Jinder Mahal until Joe Gacy stepped up onto the apron and whispered something into Truth's ear - Suddenly Truth seemed slightly more aggressive and even hit a low blow when the ref wasn't looking - The announcing quality lifted the match - Explaining how R-Truth had been on a downward spiral since losing the 24/7 title and Joe Gacy had been employed to help R-Truth regain his confidence - They highlighted how the past few weeks Gacy seems to have had a serious impact on Truth's matches, but also on his opponents (rating: 41) Give It Up! - Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander are backstage - They're mocking Omos' broken leg - Cedric is laughig at how big and dumb Omos is - Falling for the old bait and trap of MACE to leave him 2v1 against him and Shelton - Shelton says its time to give up the US title - There's no way Omos will recover within 30 days - Vacate it now - Better yet, just give it to one of us, since we were the last contenders - That seems fair, I'm OK with that (rating: 57) Finn Balor vs. Cody Rhodes In a bout that had fantastic heat and good wrestling, Cody Rhodes defeated Finn Bálor in 25:17 by pinfall with a Cross Rhodes. - During the match the cameras focused on Bray Wyatt who seemed to be watching from the rafters - It was unclear who or why he was watching - Finn Balor debuted a spectacular new high spot that showcased his aerial ability (rating: 67) The Champ is Here! - The Empire are celebrating The Empress Asuka as they walk backstage, throwing confetti and tape infront of her - The camera focuses on some landing at the feet of someone wearing pumps - The camera pands up to reveal... John Cena - Asuka and Cena are looking at each other face to face (rating: 74) Entertain Me - So, you're John Cena - John Cena says despite the way she's doing things, she respects what Asuka's accomplished - Asuka laughs, you respect means nothing to me. John. Cena. - You are a toy for The Empress. ENTERTAIN ME! - The Empire are laughing - Cena looks pissed - Roman Reigns steps into frame, that's not his decision to make, Asuka - Oh that's right, John Cena is Roman Reigns dog - Roman smiles and nods - Asuka laughs and walks on - Roman Reigns came across well (rating: 84) Bayley, Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair and Raquel Rodriguez vs. The Empire (Asuka, Aja Kong, Rhea Ripley and Shayna Baszler) In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Bayley, Becky Lynch, Bianca Belair and Raquel Rodriguez defeated The Empire (Aja Kong, Asuka, Rhea Ripley and Shayna Baszler) in 21:35 when Becky Lynch submitted Aja Kong with a Dis-arm-her. Aja Kong was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. - Becky Lynch looked good out there (rating: 65) Overall Rating: 74

WWE SmackDown Friday, Week 2 January 2023 6,000 @ Sam's Town, Las Vegas Commentary Team: Nigel McGuinness, Steve Austin & Mauro Ranallo Unmasking - The WWE Cruiserweight champion American Dragon is in the ring - He has something he needs to get off his chest... or rather his head - He removes his mask - ... It's Daniel Bryan! - He's laughing, this was perhaps the worst kept secret in professional wrestling, yeah? - I meant no disrespect to Angel Garza and El Hijo del Fantasma, but this old thing is how I started my career - Daniel Bryan is holding up the mask - I thought I'd bring it out again as I restart my career in the WWE - You see.. I just want to wrestle, every hour of every day, it's all I've ever thought about - I want people to see me wrestle as many different people and matches as possible, I want you ALL to see and be entertained - I want to be known as the best in the world at what I do... - Daniel Bryan came out of this looking excellent - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 53) The Empire - The Empire's music plays, interrupting Daniel Bryan's speech - Asuka, Rhea Ripley, Aja Kong & Shayna Baszler make their way to the ring - They're in the ring, surrounding Daniel Bryan - Asuka is looking at him with disdain and intrigue (rating: 70) Best in the World? - Asuka smiles a sick smile at Daniel Bryan - Did I hear right... best in the world? - Daniel Bryan smiles back and nods, yes... best in the world - Asuka holds up the WWE Undisputed Title and the WWE Women's World Title - These say I am already the best in the world - Bryan says with all due respect, Empress (bows), I disagree - Aja Kong, Rhea Ripley and Shayna Baszler look to grab Daniel Bryan, but Asuka raises a hand - Asuka lets out a laugh, so brave, so foolish, no man or woman can beat The Empress - Daniel Bryan asks Asuka to prove it - Asuka stops laughing and looks Daniel Bryan in the eyes - You challenge The Empress? All who fail are banished... such a shame to have your return end before it has even begun - Daniel Bryan unlatches the WWE Crusierweight title and lays it on the floor - As far as I can tell, you're missing a title, this says I'm the best cruiserweight in the world - Asuka clicks his fingers, Rhea Ripley, Aja Kong and Shayna Baszler grab Daniel Bryan and shove his face into the WWE Cruiserweight title - Asuka tells Bryan to take a good luck at it, because that will be the last time he ever gets close to the WWE Cruiserweight title again - You want to entertain? Then tonight you will entertain against me. So confident of my victory I'll even defend the WWE Undisputed title... little boy - The Empire leave Daniel Bryan in the ring with his WWE Cruiserweight title - Daniel Bryan is nodding his head - Asuka was a real star - This angle got the crowd hotter (rating: 71) Johnny Gargano vs. Shinsuke Nakamura In a good match, Shinsuke Nakamura defeated Johnny Gargano in 18:39 by pinfall with a Kinshasa. - In a slow burner of a match Gargano and Nakamura put on a real good show - At ringside was Gunther who seemed to be watching Nakamura and taking notes (rating: 73) Staredown - After the match Shinsuke Nakamura leans over the ropes and looks at Gunther - Gunther stares back - Neither man breaking their lock on the other - Eventually, Shinsuke claps... 1... 2... 3... before leaving (rating: 69) Banger after Banger - Sheamus, Bobby Lashley and Drew McIntyre are backstage - They're talking about who can put on the best banger of a match between the three - McIntyre is convinced its him - Sheamus is about to speak when Rex Steiner walks into frame - Steiner says he's heard rumours that there's some sort of competition going on - He challeneges Sheamus tonight - Nobody bangs finer then Steiner (rating: 79) The Bloodline - Roman Reigns is with Ava Raine in The Bloodline's suite - Roman says that its Ava's turn to show everyone what the Bloodline is about tonight, just like Jey Uso did last week (rating: 61) Ava Raine vs. Nikki Cross In a bout that didn't have much heat and terrible wrestling, Ava Raine defeated Nikki Cross in 9:52 by pinfall. (rating: 46) Goldberg - Rex Steiner is preparing for his match against Sheamus - As Steiner is walking backstage towards the entrance way a voice shouts out to him - Its Goldberg - Hey kid, put on a good show out there, I see a lot of your Dad and Uncle in ya (rating: 69) Alexa Bliss & Liv Morgan vs. Carmella & Lacey Evans In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but sub-par wrestling, Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan defeated Carmella and Lacey Evans in 10:16 when Alexa Bliss pinned Lacey Evans, after interference from Scarlett Lacey Evans was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. This match was part of the 'WWE Women's World Tag Titles' tournament. - Alexa Bliss was really off her game (rating: 56) Post-Match Braw - Queen Zelina and Scarlett Bordeaux jump Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan after the match - They're brawling in the ring! - Zelina and Scarlett leave Alexa and Liv down in the ring (rating: 54) ? - As Zelina and Scarlett are walking away they can be heard asking WHERE WAS HE?! - Alexa and Liv are in the ring recovering - They look at each other as if wondering where Bray Wyatt was (rating: 66) Rex Steiner vs. Sheamus In a bout that had great heat and good wrestling, Sheamus defeated Rex Steiner in 14:51 by pinfall with a Brogue Kick. - A decent match but it felt as if Rex Steiner was holding back (rating: 62) Daniel Bryan Interview - Daniel Bryan is backstage with JoJo Offerman - Offerman asks Bryan if he's worried about his match against Asuka? - Bryan says he's never worried about wrestling, this is what he lives for, if tonight is a chance to prove that he's the best in the world he's going to take it - Titles come and go, but lasting in the memory of all the fans as one of the best to ever enter the ring? Priceless (rating: 73) WWE Cruiserweight Title v WWE Undisputed: Daniel Bryan vs. Asuka In an exceptional match, Asuka defeated Daniel Bryan in 19:44 by pinfall with a Spin Kick after Aja Kong interfered. Asuka makes defence number one of the WWE Undisputed. Asuka wins the WWE Cruiserweight title. - This match got the crowd buzzing - But it deserved more build up and a storyline attached it (rating: 63) Overall Rating: 68

- Last night was easily one of best RAWs since WWE's soft reboot in July last year - There is shimmering tension between Corey Graves and Bram, after Corey Graves listed Bram in his "10 Things That Suck In Wrestling" post on twitter - Reports suggest Ricochett was highlighted as a soft drug user during a WWE Wellness test - Internet rumours say that Steph De Lander (formally known as Perisa Pirotta) and Grayson Waller are together, it was believed Steph De Lander was dating Rat Daddy before this - Paul Heyman's contract has ended with WWE - It's thought that HHH wants to increase the in-ring performances within the WWE - Possibly related to how highly regarded AEW has become for their matches over the last 12 months WWE RAW Monday Week 2, January 2023 6,000 @ Sam's Town, Las Vegas Commentary Team: Michael Cole, Mauro Ranallo & Pat McAfee RAW 30th - Show opens with Stephanie McMahon in the ring - She's excited for next week's special edition of RAW - It will be the 30th Anniversary of RAW's debut on TV - And to celebrat... - Askua's music plays interrupting Stephanie McMahon - The Empire (Asuka, Rhea Ripley, Aja Kong & Shayna Baszler) are in the ring surrounding Stephanie McMahon - Asuka takes the microphone from Stephanie McMahon - Don't you kneel for your Empress? - Aja Kong forces Stephanie to kneel - I think you have all forgotten who is in charge - I AM THE EMPRESS, I AM THE PRESENT AND THE FUTURE - I hold all the gold - Asuka holds the WWE Undisupted title and WWE Women's World title up - There will be no celebration of RAW next week - Only a celebration of Asuka - Aja Kong did not come out of this looking good - Asuka was very poor when trying to improvise dialogue - Asuka looked like a star - This angle got the crowd hotter - This angle got the show off to a strong start (rating: 63) WWE World Tag Team: Drew Gulak & Ricochet vs. The Street Profits vs. Otis & Roode vs. Samoan Hit Squad (c) In a decent match, Samoan Hit Squad defeated The Street Profits, Beauty and the Beast and Drew Gulak and Ricochet in 19:03 when Solo Sikoa pinned Drew Gulak with a Savate Kick. Samoan Hit Squad make defence number five of the WWE World Tag Team titles. (rating: 57) Challenge - Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander are backstage - They're challenging Omos and MACE to a tag match tonight! (rating: 53) Back From Break - The cameras are focused on MACE who is on the floor unconscious - Benjamin and Alexander are walking away high fiving each other (rating: 52) Omos vs. Cedric and Shelton In a decent match, Cedric & Shelton defeated Omos in a Handicap match in 10:16 when Cedric Alexander pinned Omos with a handful of tights. - The story of the match was Omos trying his best to deal with the 2v1 handicap - He came close to winning a few times but eventually lost - After the match Cedric and Shelton put a steal chair around Omos' ankle and stamped on it! (rating: 64) Old J Styles - AJ Styles is backstage - He's cutting on a promo on Theory - AJ says after beating Theory last week maybe he's proven he should be the IC Champion (rating: 71) The Bros - The Bros are watching the challenge from one of the monitors - Yo, bro, he's calling you out - Theory says he can't wrestle tonight... he has bad cramp... - Theory says Riddle should fight AJ instead - Logan Paul agrees, yeah bro, show that old fool that we're the future (rating: 77) AJ Styles vs. Riddle In a bout that had fantastic heat and great wrestling, Riddle defeated AJ Styles in 18:11 by submission with a Bromission after interference from Theory. (rating: 70) Celebration - Theory and Riddle celebrate outsmarting AJ Styles - AJ is standing in the ring watching on, nodding at their victory - Alright... (rating: 68) I Need This! - Backstage Corbin approaches Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn - He says he needs this bounty and win over Goldberg more than Edge - Owens and Sami say the bounty is still up, all Corbin has to do is beat Goldberg - Corbin says that this victory will relaunch his career (rating: 70) He's Not What He Seems! - Ezekiel runs past Corbin, Owens and Sami - He's shouting about someone not being who they seem - Two people are chasing him (rating: 38) Joe Gacy - Eventually he's seen running down the entrance way to the ring - He's grabbed the mic from the ring announcer - Dr. Gacy is not what he seems, he's... - Joe Gacy's music plays interrupting Ezekiel - Now, now, Ezekiel, don't worry, we're here to help you - Gacy orders to orderlies to go and get Ezekiel - Ezekiel, please listen to us... you're very ill, very confused... - Or perhaps I could speak to... Elias? - Ezekiel/Elias seems to react strangely to the name being side - The Orderlies manage to restain him and drag him away (rating 40) Kaitlyn & Naomi vs. Scarlett and Queen Zelina In a bout that had a decent reaction from the crowd but terrible wrestling, Scarlett Bordeaux and Queen Zelina defeated Kaitlyn and Naomi in 10:29 when Queen Zelina pinned Kaitlyn with a Cutter. Kaitlyn was the weak link, struggling to keep up with everyone else's in-ring performance. (rating: 47) Attack! - Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan are running towards the ring where Scarlett and Zelina are still celebrating (rating: 64) Protection - The lights flash out and are replaced by the familiar red spotlight of The Cardinal - Aleister Black, Karrion Kross, Dominik Dijakovic are standing between the ring and entrance way, blocking Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan - Black says The Cardinal protect each other in this world of false heroes and broken families - He questions why Bray Wyatt... The Fiend... whatever he's calling himself isn't with Alexa and Liv right now - The Cardinal begin to step towards Alexa and Liv - Black is counting each step - 1... 2... coming for you - 3... 4... knocking at your door... - The lights go out and when they come back on The Cardinal have left Alexa Bliss and Liv Morgan standing alone (rating: 57) Banger Banter - Sheamus, Bobby Lashley and Drew McIntyre are talking about Lashley's match last week - McIntyre says its his turn to show them what a real banger looks like (rating: 74) Banging Time - Drew McIntyre pulls the camera in closer - Babatunde, you big bastard... let's BANG! (rating: 69) Drew McIntyre vs. Babatunde In a bout that had great heat and decent wrestling, Drew McIntyre defeated Babatunde in 13:25 by pinfall with a Claymore Kick. - A decent attempt at a wild brawl between McIntyre and Babatunde - Although the match was heavily carried by McIntyre (rating: 65) John Cena - Roman Reigns is backstage and tells the rest of The Bloodline its time - They make their way to the ring - Roman says that The Rock must beat John Cena at Royal Rumble if he's to ever earn a chance to face Roman Reigns 1-on-1 - Roman invites John Cena down to the ring - CENA IS HERE - Roman stops Cena from posing on the ringposts - Roman says that's disrespectful, don't you remember who the Tribal Chief is - Don't you remember who ended your career? - Cena reluctantly nods and apologises - Roman asks Cena if he misses all this, the fans, the ring, the reaction - Cena is about to speak but Roman pulls the mic away from him - No, son, that's not how this works - Cena is trying to fight back his anger - Roman tells the fans that John Cena isn't back, the only person that can decide John Cena's career is him -- the Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns - I was the one who ended John Cena's career, I hold his contract, but I'm a gracious man and I'm going to give Cena a chance to regain his own destiny again - If John Cena can beat The Rock at Royal Rumble, he can do what he likes with his career again - But if The Rock wins... that's it. It's over... no more chances to return, you're finished - Roman asks John Cena if he accepts - Yes - Yes what? - Yes... Tribal Chief (rating: 62) Goldberg vs. Corbin In an extremely short match, Bill Goldberg defeated Happy Corbin in 4:52 by pinfall with a Jackhammer. During the match we also had Edge run in and attack Goldberg. - Edge attacked during the match after the ref took a bump - Edge is furious (rating: 48) The Empress Rumble - Asuka is back out - She has a special announcement and a reminder for everyone just who is in control of the WWE - This year's Royal Rumble will be known as THE EMPRESS RUMBLE - One giant rumble with both men and women together - After all.. - Asuka holds up both tiles - SETH ROLLINS' MUSIC PLAYS - He says he wants to be the first person to enter the rumble, as there's nobody in the WWE who wants to get revenge on Asuka more than him... - ... well except maybe one person (rating: 68) SLAP SLAP SLAP POUND UP DOWN SNAP! - Becky Lynch is back! - Becky comes out and stands next to Seth Rollins - Part of her hair seems to have turned black from Askua's black liquid attack at Night of Champions - Asuka stands motionless - Becky points at Asuka then at the Wrestlemania sign as RAW goes off the air (rating: 69) Overall Rating: 64