WWE: The New Era

ElliotM · April 20, 2018

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;text-align:center;">WWE Raw: April 9th, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana</div>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Shinsuke Nakamura's victory speech is crashed by Samoa Joe</div>

Following a long journey from the 2018 Royal Rumble Match all the way to New Orleans, Shinsuke Nakamura finally reigned supreme and conquered The Beast to become the <i>new</i> Universal Champion. A warrior's welcome awaited him as he arrived at the #RawAfterMania to a jam-packed crowd of international flavour. The King of Strong Style looked emotional as he bowed to the WWE Universe in appreciation, holding his newly won Universal Championship to his chest. It may have been in broken English, but The Artist was easily understood when he thanked the many fans for their support as he journeyed towards the main event of WrestleMania and ultimately succeeded in his quest. But while the WWE Universe may have been supportive of The WWE's Resident Rockstar, one man was not particularly interested in victory celebrations, and that man was Samoa Joe.

The Destroyer - who brutally defeated John Cena 24 hours prior at The Show of Shows - interrupted Shinsuke's victory speech with a crystal clear message that he intended to be the next challenger for the coveted gold of the red brand. Revealing that he had been granted an opportunity at Shinsuke's newly acquired title at the upcoming WWE Network-exclusive event, the Greatest Royal Rumble in Saudi Arabia. The Artist was eager to accept the challenge and beckoned his number one contender into the ring for an impromptu brawl, but Samoa Joe instead chose to wag his finger and deny Nakamura the opportunity at an early fight, making it clear that his opportunity at the Universal Championship would only be on his terms, and that would be on April 27 in Saudi Arabia.

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<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Raw Tag Team Champions Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins def. The Bar</div>

Sierra. Hotel. India. Echo. Lima. Delta. The Shield are back (sort of) as two of the original members - Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins - successfully defeat The Bar to capture the Raw Tag Team Championships on The Grandest Stage of Them All. Their old ally, Dean Ambrose was also on hand for the festivities as he joined them at ringside for their crowning moment. But they would be forced into an immediate rematch with The Celtic Warrior and his Swiss ally in a non-title bout just 24 hours after their WrestleMania clash. However, the result was the same as The Big Dog was able to take Sheamus out of the equation with a Spear, and Seth Rollins saw an opening to deliver the Blackout to Cesaro and secure the win - their first as reigning champs. But their moment of glory was rudely interrupted by another promising team - The Revival.

Just moments after the closing bell, Dash Wilder and Scott Dawson emerged on the stage to give a clear warning to the Raw Tag Team Champions, that they were coming for those titles in the near future. Former NXT Tag Team Champions in their own right, could The Revival be the ones to end the reunited brothers' championship reign?

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<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Raw Women's Champion Asuka def. Sasha Banks</div>

Undefeated? Yes. Unbeatable? Most probably. Asuka extended her unparalleled undefeated streak as she overcame the offence of three other superstars to capture the Raw Women's Championship. Clearly nobody was ready for Asuka, as she quite rightly stated. Sasha Banks attempted to regain her former gold by cashing in her rematch clause on the #RawAfterMania, but simply fell victim to The Empress of Tomorrow once again, being forced into submission by the deadly Asuka Lock.

The Raw Women's Champion added another notch to her victory belt and looked forward to the future. With the Superstar Shake-up coming next week, will Asuka remain a member of Monday Night Raw? Will she gain some new competition as more superstars arrive on the red brand? Only time will tell.

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<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Jeff Hardy makes a shocking return to interrupt Elias' "Crowning Concert"</div>

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the "Crowning Concert" of Elias! Somehow coming away victorious in the fifth annual André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, Elias gave a performance for the New Orleans crowd as much as they would have probably rather not listened. Mentioning names that spanned the entire cast of the star-studded bout, The Sinister Songsmith finally came to target the man he eliminated last to claim victory - "Woken" Matt Hardy. Claiming that The Woken One is a pathetic excuse for a superstar and declaring how easy it was to dispose of him, Elias drew the ire of the WWE Universe, but his words did not go unnoticed in the locker room, and he may be forced to eat them as a certain Charismatic Enigma made his return to defend his brother's honour.

Jeff Hardy shocked the world and returned to Raw to confront Elias and cut his concert short. This angered the André Battle Royal winner and he had some strong words for the former World Champion, leading to him swinging his guitar in frustration. Hardy ducked underneath and delivered a Twist of Fate to the delight of New Orleans, ascending the ropes for his patented Swanton Bomb, but The Sinister Songsmith wisely fled the ringside area, clutching his guitar and holding his jaw.

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<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">The Authors of Pain def. Titus Worldwide</div>

The #RawAfterMania is always filled with surprises, and one such surprise came in the form of former NXT Tag Team Champions, Akam and Rezar - The Authors of Pain. Accompanied to the ring by their Hall of Fame manager, Paul Ellering, this destructive pair made their Raw debut by annihilating the duo of Titus O'Neil and Apollo Crews of Titus Worldwide. Employing their aggressive offence that fans of NXT will be oh-so familiar with, Akam and Rezar decimated the competition and finished off Apollo Crews with The Last Chapter.

Paul Ellering had led The Authors of Pain to the NXT Tag Team Championships, the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic Cup, and now he had brought them to the dance on Monday Night Raw. Pain awaits the tag teams of the red brand. Be warned.

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<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Ronda Rousey and Kurt Angle celebrate their WrestleMania win and a blockbuster main event is revealed</div>

Overcoming authority is something that only few can say they've accomplished, and Ronda Rousey is one of those few. Alongside Kurt Angle, The Rowdy One defeated Triple H and Stephanie McMahon in her in-ring debut at The Show of Shows, and she arrived on Raw to share the moment of glory with her WrestleMania partner. The Raw General Manager initially began with an interview with Charly Caruso, explaining that the return of Jeff Hardy had given him an idea for a blockbuster main event - a Six-Man Tag Team Match pitting Samoa Joe, The Miz and Elias against Shinsuke Nakamura, Finn Bálor and Jeff Hardy.

Ronda Rousey joined the Hall of Famer in celebration and embraced Angle with an emotional message of appreciation, thanking him for his support. But the former UFC competitor was not finished thanking everyone, and informed The Olympic Gold Medalist that she had someone else she wanted to thank in person, and that's the WWE Universe.

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<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Ronda Rousey is viciously assaulted by Nia Jax as Stephanie McMahon declares she's not finished with her yet</div>

Moments after expressing her gratitude to Kurt Angle, Ronda Rousey entered the arena to thank another entity that helped her in her journey to WrestleMania and becoming a Raw superstar. The WWE Universe showered her with love with chants of her name which made even the hard-faced Ronda emotional, giving a heartfelt speech to the New Orleans crowd for supporting her and pushing her to achieve her goal of reaching the WWE. But Ronda's emotional address became a nightmare when Stephanie McMahon arrived to bring her crashing down to reality.

Sporting a brace around her left arm - the same arm that Ronda Rousey had almost snapped just 24 hours prior at WrestleMania - The Billionaire Baroness gave a scathing warning to her arch-nemesis which made it obvious that she was far from finished with the former UFC competitor. But rather than take a physical approach, Stephanie opted to use her power as Raw Commissioner to punish Ronda more than she ever could, and announced that on May 6 at WWE Backlash, The Rowdy One would go up against a superstar of Stephanie's personal choosing. Of course, Rousey was more than happy to take on all comers and showed no intimidation towards the mystery that now shrouded her Backlash bout. But the mystery was quickly solved as Ronda found herself blindsided by none other than Nia Jax.

The Irresistible Force clubbed "Rowdy" Ronda to the canvas with vicious intent and proceeded to rain down offence in a furious flurry. Nia Jax hoisted Ronda onto her shoulders before delivering not one, not two, but <i>three</i> Samoan Drops, rendering the former UFC Champion helpless. Stephanie's choice of adversary may be the one to match up to the brute force of Ronda Rousey, and she will certainly have her hands full come Backlash.

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<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">"Woken" Matt Hardy def. Jason Jordan</div>

WrestleMania was almost WOKEN when Matt Hardy made it to the final two of the André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, but it was not to be for The Woken One and he suffered defeat in New Orleans. Hoping to redeem the loss, Hardy took on the son of Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle in a back-and-forth battle, one which Jason Jordan almost came out victorious in, but he was ultimately sentenced to DELETION by the former United States Champion who delivered a Twist of Fate and banished Jason Jordan into the realms of OBSOLETION.

Moments after claiming victory, "Woken" Matt was plunged into the dimension of darkness as the lights shut down, accompanied by a flicker of horrifying images synonymous with The Eater of Worlds. And as the light returned, Bray Wyatt was stood across from his inter-dimensional rival with an intense glare. The WWE Universe expected The Great War to reignite before their very eyes, only for The Face of Fear to turn and grab Jason Jordan, delivering a Sister Abigail to the former Tag Team Champion. And the unthinkable became a reality as Bray Wyatt dropped to his knees before The Woken One and smiled with his arms wide. A wide-eyed Hardy grinned from ear-to-ear while nodding his head, signifying this unholy union was certainly WONDERFUL in Hardy's eyes.

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<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Ember Moon def. Alexa Bliss</div>

We had already seen The Authors of Pain arrive on Raw from NXT, and now it was the turn of Ember Moon. But not before Little Miss Bliss had her say on the microphone about how she had been wronged by Kurt Angle by not receiving her one-on-one rematch for the Raw Women's Championship. The WWE Universe cared little for her complaints and instead blew the roof off the arena as The War Goddess finally arrived to cut off Alexa's tirade. It wasn't long before the former NXT Women's Champion had Alexa Bliss right where she wanted her and delivered the ever-impressive Eclipse to lay out the former Raw Women's Champion and secure her Raw debut victory.

A victory over a former Raw Women's Champion places Ember Moon in a fantastic position upon joining the red brand and could potentially lead to a bright future. The Shenom has truly arrived, and the women's locker room should take note - especially Asuka.

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<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Brock Lesnar's Universal Championship challenge is derailed by the shocking return of Bobby Lashley</div>

It's been no secret that the WWE contract of The Beast, Brock Lesnar had been set to expire fairly soon, and nobody expected to see the former Universal Champion ever again. But in a shocking turn of events, Paul Heyman led his client to the ring with a purpose as the pair declared their intention to reclaim the Universal Championship from Shinsuke Nakamura. But it was less of a statement, more of a demand as Paul Heyman issued a direct warning to Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle by claiming that there would be no avoiding them, and until Brock Lesnar received his opportunity, Raw could be considered held hostage to The Beast's demands. When the request went unanswered, Paul Heyman revealed that Brock Lesnar would go backstage into the Gorilla position and confront Mr. McMahon until he gave him what he wanted, making a direct threat to the Chairman of WWE. But as the dastardly duo were about to leave ringside to back up their claim, Brock Lesnar's challenge was answered. But not by Shinsuke Nakamura.

The WWE Universe looked on in awe as Bobby Lashley made a shock return to the red brand for the first time in eleven years. The Beast and his advocate were equally as surprised as The Dominator made his way down the aisle amidst the chants of "Lashley" from the New Orleans crowd. The former United States Champion leapt onto the apron before entering the ring and coming face-to-face with Brock Lesnar in what could only be described as a stand-off for the ages. Time appeared to stand still as the WWE Universe made Lashley feel welcome with a chant of "Welcome back" for the physically gifted superstar. Without even saying a word, The Beast swung a right hand Lashley's way only to have it blocked and receive a flurry of shots for his troubles. The former Universal Champion battled back by driving Bobby Lashley into the corner, but even he was unable to keep The Dominator backed in a corner and was thrown backwards to the canvas. Lesnar's next attempt at taking control came as he hoisted his adversary onto his shoulders for an F-5, but Lashley escaped at the last second and bounced off the ropes for a thunderous Spear, grounding The Beast. Brock Lesnar quickly bounced back to his feet and was sent crashing over the ropes by a clothesline from Lashley, sending Lesnar and Heyman into retreat.

The #RawAfterMania delivers again as the surprises keep coming, and nobody expected to see the return of Bobby Lashley. Reluctantly, Paul Heyman pulled his client back up the ramp in a fit of rage, leaving The Dominator to look on with a grin and his arms spread wide, open for The Beast to come for some more. His Universal Championship quest may have been derailed, but Brock Lesnar will surely not let this slide. Nonetheless, Bobby Lashley is back, and better than ever.

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<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Universal Champion Shinsuke Nakamura, Intercontinental Champion Finn Bálor & Jeff Hardy def. Samoa Joe, The Miz & Elias</div>

Altercations earlier in the night led to Kurt Angle creating a blockbuster Six-Man Tag Team main event for the #RawAfterMania and it didn't disappoint. The returning Jeff Hardy kicked things off against Elias in his first bout since suffering an injury almost seven months ago. The Charismatic Enigma showed the WWE Universe that he hadn't missed a step, going toe-to-toe with three of the best Raw has to offer. The Intercontinental Champion was able to get his hands on the same man he defeated for the title just 24 hours prior at WrestleMania, The Miz when he was tagged in and delivered a shotgun dropkick to The A-Lister. And even Shinsuke Nakamura got to deliver his patented Kinshasa to the Hollywood features of the former Intercontinental Champion before coming into contact with his Greatest Royal Rumble challenger, Samoa Joe. All six men clashed in an incredible main event until the Intercontinental Champion was left alone with his A-List adversary and was able to deliver the Coup de Grace to the sternum and secure the victory over The Miz once more.

In a moment to behold, the Universal Champion, Shinsuke Nakamura stood alongside the Intercontinental Champion, Finn Bálor and Jeff Hardy in victory to close out the #RawAfterMania that had already featured many moments that will be etched in Raw's history forever. The new WWE year begins, and it's off to an unbelievable start.</div>

2Sweet · April 20, 2018

Lashley vs. Lesnar should be entertaining. I liked the #RawAfterMania but, I can't lie, I'm more eager to see what you got in store for SDL

ElliotM · April 23, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/N2JAJTz.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/N2JAJTz.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;text-align:center;">WWE SmackDown LIVE: April 10, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana</div></p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Daniel Bryan's emotional address ends in chaos as Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn strike</div></p><p>

The history of Daniel Bryan at WrestleMania will forever be discussed, but his return to in-ring competition this past Sunday at The Show of Shows may have taken the cake in terms of emotion. The Yes Man stepped between the ropes as a competitor for the first time in three years and captivated the WWE Universe as though he had never stopped performing in an epic battle with SmackDown LIVE Commissioner, Shane McMahon. To kick off this week's edition of SmackDown LIVE in emotional fashion, Daniel Bryan issued an address to the WWE Universe with some big things to discuss, namely his status withing the WWE now that he has been officially cleared to compete.</p><p> </p><p>

"Thankyou" was his opening line, sending the WWE Universe into a frenzy of appreciation for the former World Champion. A thankyou for the support he has received and for allowing him the opportunity to experience the electricity of WrestleMania once more. But Bryan didn't forget to mention his WrestleMania opponent, Shane McMahon, declaring that he has a great deal of respect for The Prodigal Son an despite his recent actions, having the moment with someone like Shane made it that much sweeter. But the address didn't end there as Daniel Bryan had an announcement to make, revealing that as of WrestleMania he had stepped down as the General Manager of SmackDown LIVE to pursue his full-time in-ring career once more, much to the excitement of the New Orleans crowd. The moment of joy was filled with chants of "Yes" as Bryan chanted along with them, but his emotional union with the WWE Universe was about to become less of a dream, and more of a nightmare.</p><p> </p><p>

Uninvited guests, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn arrived on the scene to interrupt Daniel Bryan's address and confronted the former General Manager with some harsh words. Despite being formerly aligned with The Yes Man who had used his position as GM on several occasions to support the pair, Kevin Owens questioned Bryan's sanity for shaking hands with and embracing Shane McMahon at WrestleMania after everything they had been through. The Prizefighter made sure to remind Bryan of what Shane-O-Mac put them through, and how the WWE Universe supposedly turned their backs on him. Daniel Bryan disagreed, but Sami Zayn made a bold statement, claiming that their former ally had gone soft and has become a shell of his former self, before stating that Daniel Bryan is nothing but a washed-up has-been. Well, this flipped a switch somewhere in Bryan's head as he lunged forward and delivered rapid forearms to the jaw of The Underdog of the Underground.</p><p> </p><p>

Unleashing his fury on the dastardly duo, Daniel Bryan laid into both men until the numbers game became too much even for the former World Champion. He found himself in a precarious position and was on the receiving end of a Helluva Kick, followed by a devastating Pop-up Powerbomb. The WWE Universe made their feelings towards Owens and Zayn known as they stood over Daniel Bryan in the center of the ring, but help soon arrived in the form of SmackDown LIVE Commissioner, Shane McMahon and a sea of officials. The two best buddies fled the scene and escaped through the New Orleans crowd before they could be apprehended for their actions. Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn had crossed the line, and may have cut Daniel Bryan's in-ring return short with their heinous assault.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/HgBmTkl.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/HgBmTkl.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">United States Champion Drew McIntyre def. Tye Dillinger</div></p><p>

The United States Open Challenge issued by Bobby Roode was highly anticipated as the mystery behind his challenger remained so until the night of the bout itself. The Glorious One was as shocked as anyone when former NXT Champion, Drew McIntyre answered the call and stepped in the ring with his former NXT rival to compete for the United States Championship on The Grandest Stage of Them All. Making his official in-ring return to SmackDown LIVE, The Sinister Scotsman competed against another former NXT alumnus, Tye Dillinger. The former Champion, Bobby Roode resided at ringside on commentary as McIntyre worked his magic in the ring and defeated The Perfect 10 with a Claymore before standing tall with his newly acquired title.</p><p> </p><p>

Stepping up from his seat, The Glorious One confronted his former rival with a smile, and The Celtic Colossus, returned the grin with one of his own while raising the US Championship above his head. This reignited rivalry is truly underway, and this time it's for the pride of the United States. However, Drew McIntyre is back on SmackDown LIVE to claim the throne he has always felt he deserved, hoping to live up to his name given to him by the Chairman himself, Mr. McMahon as - The Chosen One.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Daniel Bryan requests a match with Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn, Shane reveals that he will team with AJ Styles</div></p><p>

Following his horrific attack at the hands of Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn, Daniel Bryan found himself in the trainer's room alongside Shane McMahon being tended to for his injuries. But despite being beaten down by the merciless pair, The Yes Man demanded that Shane McMahon allow him to compete against the two tonight! Of course, Shane-O-Mac was reluctant to send a recently returned Daniel Bryan into a 2-on-1 Handicap Match, and instead gave Bryan the option of competing alongside another superstar who has some unfinished business with Owens and Zayn - the WWE Champion, AJ Styles. Daniel Bryan had only one answer which the WWE Universe agreed with wholeheartedly - YES!</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/7njz2zY.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/7njz2zY.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Ruby Riott def. Lana</div></p><p>

The Riott Squad (along with Absolution) made quite the statement at WrestleMania, overcoming several other female superstars on the Kickoff Show. This week they continued their dominance against one of the same superstar they beat at The Show of Shows, Lana. Even with Natalya in her corner watching her back, The Ravishing Russian was unable to withstand Ruby Riott's offence and fell victim to a Riott Kick.</p><p> </p><p>

No question, The Riott Squad are a force to be reckoned with and with the Superstar Shakeup on the horizon next week, it could be possible that their path of destruction could travel to Monday nights on the red brand. Only time will tell.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos & The New Day def. Chad Gable, Shelton Benjamin & The Colons</div></p><p>

It's always a classic when The Usos and The New Day step into the ring together, and WrestleMania was no exception. Even with the addition of Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn, the SmackDown Tag Team Championship bout tore the house down as it opened The Show of Shows in New Orleans. The Usos walked out with their titles intact and earned their place in the hall of champions, but this week was about their unity and respect for their New Day rivals as they teamed to take on Chad Gable, Shelton Benjamin and The Colons in Eight-Man Tag Team action. Chaos ensued as it always does when multiple superstars are together in the same bout, and thanks to a miscommunication between Gable and Benjamin led to them arguing outside the ring, The Usos were able to capitalise and Jimmy Uso delivered an Uso Splash to Epico Colon to secure the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

Despite their epic battles, The Usos and The New Day do have the utmost respect for each other and it was clear as they celebrated their victory in unison, along with the WWE Universe. But their celebration became sinister as a pair of monsters arrived to ruin the fun. Harper and Rowan - The Bludgeon Brothers - emerged on the stage with their mallets over their shoulders and issued an eerie warning to the two teams inside the ring. The horrifying glares from their disturbing masks stared a hole right through the SmackDown Tag Team Champions and their arch-rivals, acting as a clear message that they were lurking in the shadows, ready for the perfect opportunity to strike.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/IFpKrWM.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/IFpKrWM.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Aleister Black makes his shocking debut on SmackDown LIVE at the expense of Dolph Ziggler</div></p><p>

Coming up short in the WWE Championship Triple Threat Match clearly played on Dolph Ziggler's mind as he made his way to the ring for an address to the WWE Universe. But his topic of discussion was not about his match at WrestleMania, but instead about the upcoming Superstar Shakeup and his desire to move to Raw. The Showoff claimed that he was the victim of disrespect and misuse during his time on SmackDown LIVE and was continuously screwed out of opportunities by management and political players. The WWE Universe did not share his opinions, but he continued nonetheless. Claiming to be the life and soul of the brand and "The Greatest In-ring Performer in WWE History", Ziggler declared that nobody could hold a candle to him and he deserves to be the poster child of the WWE. The #Heel explained that a trade to Raw could provide him with the platform he needs to prove that he is the best of the best.</p><p> </p><p>

But Dolph Ziggler's egotistical tirade became the site of an anticipated debut as The Ominous Man from Amsterdam, Aleister Black emerged from the darkness, rising from the stage to the excitement of the WWE Universe. The former NXT superstar stepped onto the stage with a sinister glare that sent chills down the spine of Dolph Ziggler. The Dutch Destroyer slowly made his way to the ring before coming face-to-face with The Showoff in the center of the ring, surrounded by "NXT" and "Let's go, Black" chants. But rather than stick around to see what happened next, Dolph Ziggler backed away from Aleister Black and hopped through the ropes, taking his ball and leaving while he still could, despite the WWE Universe's dismay. Perhaps a wise move by the former World Champion? Either way, Aleister Black is here and SmackDown LIVE just became the home to Evil.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">SmackDown Women's Champion Carmella def. Naomi</div></p><p>

Carmella shocked the entire world when she cashed-in her Money in the Bank contract to secure the SmackDown Women's Championship at The Showcase of the Immortals, etching her name into WWE history forever. The Princess of Staten Island couldn't wait to show off her newly won bling and rub it in the face of every other superstar in the arena, including the former Champion and her challenger. Carmella made sure to mock The Queen with a signature Flair strut as she was able to defeat former Women's Champion, Naomi with a stiff superkick for her first victory as the reigning Champ.</p><p> </p><p>

Princess 'Mella had undoubtedly taken over the SmackDown LIVE women's division thanks to her opportunistic cash-in, but it wasn't without drawing the ire of the former Champion and Becky Lynch. Charlotte Flair rushed the ring alongside The Irish Lasskicker to get their hands on the new SmackDown Women's Champion, but Carmella escaped danger with her title intact. She may have pulled off the heist, but the repercussions may come back to bite Miss 'Mella when the two former Champions get their hands on her.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/oiH2VLF.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/oiH2VLF.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Randy Orton def. Rusev</div></p><p>

It wasn't Randy Orton's night this past Sunday as he failed to become the new WWE Champion, but you can't keep a good Viper down. Orton continued to look to the future and took on The Bulgarian Brute, Rusev on SmackDown LIVE. Hoping to capitalise on Orton's WrestleMania loss, Rusev was eager to defeat the former World Champion and kick off his new WWE year with a big victory. However, it didn't quite go to plan for the former United States Champion as he accidentally superkicked Aiden English from the ring apron and then ate an RKO outta nowhere, allowing Orton to secure the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

While he may not have been successful in his WWE Championship hunt, nothing will stop Randy Orton from continuing his journey to the top and this isn't the last we have seen of The Viper's golden hopes.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">No Way Jose def. Local Competitor</div></p><p>

WrestleMania week is closing out with SmackDown LIVE and it was only fitting that it ended with a party like no other. No Way Jose made his main roster debut to the delight of the WWE Universe as he defeated a local New Orleans competitor following a fun-filled conga line. The Dominican Dancing Machine dominated his opponent and finished it off with a pop-up punch to the face, delivering the finishing blow in his unorthodox debut.</p><p> </p><p>

Everybody join the conga line! No Way Jose has arrived on SmackDown LIVE and the party is only just getting started.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/GI9cGlV.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/GI9cGlV.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">WWE Champion AJ Styles & Daniel Bryan def. Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn</div></p><p>

The night began with Daniel Bryan delivering an emotional address to the WWE Universe that ended in catastrophe when Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn crashed it. And the night ended with Daniel Bryan getting his own back alongside the WWE Champion, AJ Styles in a tag team clash that probably made the best friends regret ever turning their backs on The Yes Man in the first place. Fresh off their individual victories at The Show of Shows, Bryan and Styles were still feeding off their 'Mania momentum and it showed as they collided with Owens and Zayn in the main event. Despite the best efforts of The Prizefighter and his underdog ally, they were unable to withstand the unbelievable offence of the two fan favourites Sami Zayn aimed to deliver a second Helluva Kick of the night to Daniel Bryan, only to receive a Phenomenal Forearm for his troubles. And before the former Universal Champion could step in to help his buddy, he found himself dropped with a Running Knee from Bryan before being turned into the Yes Lock and forced into submission.</p><p> </p><p>

Just 48 hours removed from his in-ring return and Daniel Bryan had claimed yet another victory. The Yes Man and his Phenomenal companion celebrate the victory as Owens and Zayn retreated up the aisle licking their wounds, and the WWE Universe were loving every second of it. The pair joined forces to rally the New Orleans crowd in a series of "Yes" chants as SmackDown LIVE came to an uplifting close.</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/TW0LMou.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/TW0LMou.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 2, 2018

<p><div style="width:750px;margin:auto;color:#121212;background-color:#ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/PqpqzAo.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/PqpqzAo.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font:15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;text-align:center;">WWE 205 Live: April 10, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana</div></p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Drake Maverick announces the creation of the WWE Cruiserweight Trios Championships</div></p><p>

Hot off a blockbuster WrestleMania that saw Cedric Alexander claim the WWE Cruiserweight Championship he had sought for so long, the surprises kept on coming when 205 Live General Manager, Drake Maverick dropped the 'Mania-sized bombshell that he would be introducing the WWE Cruiserweight Trios Championships to the purple brand. Keeping the announcement fairly vague for now, Maverick promised that over the next few weeks, more details would be revealed about the crowning of inaugural Trios champs in the near future. But that's not all he had to say.</p><p> </p><p>

The GM went on to reveal his intention to waste no time finding Cedric Alexander's number one contender for the Cruiserweight Championship, as well as celebrating the new champ's WrestleMania victory over Hideo Itami with a coronation celebration later in the night.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/7HkhPkm.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/7HkhPkm.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Drew Gulak def. Marcel Barthel, Akira Tozawa & Lince Dorado to advance to the number one contendership match next week</div></p><p>

Cedric Alexander won't have much time to bask in his glory as Drake Maverick quickly began work finding his next challenger for the upcoming Greatest Royal Rumble event. Four of 205 Live's top cruiserweights clashed in a Fatal 4-Way bout to determine just one of the potential contender's for Cedric's newly acquired title, and it was Drew Gulak who snuck in from the sidelines to steal a victory. Marcel Barthel connected with his Landungsbrücken on Akira Tozawa, only for the self-proclaimed Submission King of Philadelphia to swoop in and throw Barthel from the ring and secure the pinfall for himself.</p><p> </p><p>

Drew Gulak became one step closer to reaching the Cruiserweight Championship with his devious victory, but who will he contend with next week to determine Cedric Alexander's first challenger?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Brian Kendrick and Gentleman Jack Gallagher return to 205 Live in search of a third ally</div></p><p>

They say three's a crowd, but The Brian Kendrick believes in strength in numbers. The Wizard of Odd returned to 205 Live alongside his protege, Gentleman Jack Gallagher with their sights set on finding a third partner for their dastardly alliance. But who will they find to join them and initiate the supposed "takeover" of the purple brand, led by The Man With a Plan?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Kalisto def. Tony Nese, TJP & Raul Mendoza to advance to the number one contendership match next week</div></p><p>

After Drew Gulak secured the first spot in the number one contendership match next week, it was time to discover who would also receive that opportunity. Four more cruiserweights attempted to earn their position as Cedric Alexander's first challenger, but it was the luchadore, Kalisto that shone through and after TJP and Tony Nese took an unfortunate tumble to the outside after a top rope altercation, the former Cruiserweight Champion delivered his Salida Del Sol to Mendoza for the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

The stage had been set for next week's edition of 205 Live as Kalisto will now take on Drew Gulak in a match to determine Cedric Alexander's first number one contender. WHich of these cruiserweights will pull through and earn their right to go for gold at the Greatest Royal Rumble?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/yUG52Qu.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/yUG52Qu.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Hideo Itami def. Local Competitor</div></p><p>

Safe to say, Hideo Itami was in no mood for celebrations, and a unfortunate competitor from the local talent pool became victim of the aggression of The Don from Nihon. Clearly furious after his loss to Cedric Alexander at WrestleMania, Itami took out his frustrations on his adversary and unleashed a disturbing beating that many WWE Universe members were forced to have to look away from. One stiff Go To Sleep later and Hideo Itami secured a victory on 205 Live in dominant fashion.</p><p> </p><p>

The Japanese Sensation did not wait for his hand to be raised and instead abandoned the ringside area with a scowl on his face. Perhaps his unsuccessful attempt to become Cruiserweight Champion awoke a new beast within Hideo Itami, and not one that the rest of the roster should be looking to cross.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Neville makes shock return to 205 Live and crashes Cedric Alexander's Cruiserweight Championship Coronation</div></p><p>

Drake Maverick promised a championship coronation and that's what we got. Cedric Alexander's hard work and effort had finally paid off as he was welcomed with open arms by the WWE Universe with a series of "You deserve it" chants. Alexander was clearly overwhelmed with the response and said a few thankyous for the New Orleans crowd, before being awarded the Cruiserweight Championship by the 205 Live General Manager himself in an emotional moment. The brand new Champion promised that there would be much more to come from him and that he intends to hold onto the Cruiserweight Championship for as long as he can. But his coronation celebration was about to take a much more sinister turn.</p><p> </p><p>

The shock-factor of WrestleMania week continued into 205 Live as the self-proclaimed King of the Cruiserweights, Neville made an unannounced return and well and truly crashed Cedric Alexander's crowning moment. The former Cruiserweight Champion took to the microphone to declare that he was still the most talented competitor in the cruiserweight division and he was here to prove that the throne still belongs to him. Drake Maverick steps in to avoid the situation boiling over as Neville and Alexander came nose-to-nose.</p><p> </p><p>

The 205 Live GM made a professional observation, remarking that Neville does indeed still have a contractual claim to a Cruiserweight Championship rematch, and so in the interest of fairness, Neville would be inserted into the Greatest Royal Rumble Cruiserweight Championship bout against Cedric Alexander and the winner of next week's battle between Drew Gulak and Kalisto, making the title match a Triple Threat! The arrival of Neville turned the entire division on its head, and all of a sudden, Cedric Alexander's Cruiserweight Championship reign is in serious jeopardy.</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/wflK3wb.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/wflK3wb.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></div></div></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 4, 2018

<p><div style="width:750px;margin:auto;color:#121212;background-color:#ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/rfI2NwJ.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/rfI2NwJ.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font:15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;text-align:center;">WWE NXT: April 11, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana</div></p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">The War Raiders vs. The Street Profits never began</div></p><p>

The highly anticipated arrival of Hanson and Rowe had finally happened, and The War Raiders crashed onto the tag team scene in chaotic fashion. A scheduled bout with The Street Profits was set to take place in New Orleans, only for it to never even make it past the opening bell when the two new arrivals annihilated their adversaries before their debut match could begin. The beastly duo brutally disposed of Montez Ford before isolating Angelo Dawkins and delivering their signature Fallout, laying out their competition.</p><p> </p><p>

The NXT tag team division has been put on notice, and The War Raiders are most definitely here to make an impact.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Johnny Gargano announced his intentions to chase the NXT Championship</div></p><p>

His demons finally defeated at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans, Johnny Gargano looked towards his future in NXT and namely the golden prize that currently hangs over the shoulder of Andrade "Cien" Almas - the NXT Championship. With Tommaso Ciampa behind him, Johnny Wrestling was free to finally pursue his dreams and he made that clear to the NXT Universe and everyone listening. In an emotional interview with Cathy Kelly, the beloved superstar revealed his plan to be the man who finally dethrones El Ídolo.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Cq2yK6Y.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Cq2yK6Y.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Roderick Strong officially aligns himself with The Undisputed ERA</div></p><p>

The Messiah of the Backbreaker quickly became The Saviour of The Undisputed ERA at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans - a swerve that nobody saw coming. After assisting Kyle O'Reilly and Bobby Fish to retain their NXT Tag Team Championships, Roderick Strong appeared to side with the dominant trio, and it was all officially confirmed this week on NXT as he stood beside his new-found allies to declare to the NXT Universe that the old phrase is very much true - "If you can't beat them, join them". Strong's attitude had taken a sharp turn, and with his new colours donned in the form of black and yellow, will Roderick Strong be yet another dominant factor in The Undisputed ERA's arsenal?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/KETBrGy.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/KETBrGy.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">NXT Women's Champion Shayna Baszler def. Kairi Sane</div></p><p>

An epic conclusion to a heated rivalry between two of the top female superstars in NXT. Having secured the NXT Women's Championship at WrestleMania Axxess after defeating Peyton Royce, Shayna Baszler looked to be on a tear, and it didn't stop with her title victory as she finally closed the book on her feud with the winner of the 2017 Mae Young Classic, forcing her into submission with the Kirifuda Clutch.</p><p> </p><p>

This dominant female may very well be unstoppable, and with the Championship around her waist, she's the woman to beat.</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/BaREczP.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/BaREczP.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></div></div></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 5, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/sPtS6cq.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/sPtS6cq.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;text-align:center;">WWE Raw: April 16th, 2018 in Hartford, Connecticut (Superstar Shakeup)</div></p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn arrive on Raw to interrupt Kurt Angle</div></p><p>

The Superstar Shakeup last year truly rocked the foundations of the WWE, and this year promised to do much the same. Kicking things off, the Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle headed to the ring to welcome the WWE Universe to the 2018 Superstar Shakeup. The Olympic Gold Medalist guaranteed a historic show and went on to announce the main event of the Universal Champion, Shinsuke Nakamura going one-on-one with a newly drafted Raw superstar. But the Superstar Shakeup may have begun a bit too soon for Angle as he found himself interrupted by two of the newest acquisitions for Monday nights.</p><p> </p><p>

Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn stamped their mark on the red brand when they rudely arrived mid-speech to promise that a takeover of Raw would follow, much like they had with SmackDown LIVE. However, their claims did not sit well with the Hall of Famer and he was sure to remind them of who the boss is around here. Kurt Angle refused to let them run riot over Raw as they did on the blue brand and revealed that their premature arrival had landed them an early debut, as the pair would be thrust into their Raw return moments later - against each other! Welcome to Raw, "Kami".</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Sami Zayn def. Kevin Owens</div></p><p>

As tight of a unit as these two may be, they are no stranger to conflict in their love-hate relationship. The two best friends reluctantly fulfilled their duties as opponents in their Raw returns, with neither holding back and the thought of securing a return victory undoubtedly at the forefront of their minds. Friendship appeared to take a backseat as the severity of the situation sank in, and when the opportunity arose, Sami Zayn was able to deliver a Helluva Kick to the jaw of the former Universal Champion, knocking him out for long enough to secure the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

The Underdog of the Underground toppled his ally in the name of momentum heading into their brand new home, but despite the hard-hitting bout prior, Sami attempted to assist his fallen brother to his feet. The Prizefighter was reluctant to accept the offer of kindness, but the pair eventually walked up the aisle side-by-side. Has Kurt Angle drove a wedge between these two best friends just moments into their careers on Monday Night Raw?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/ZVeTMpM.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/ZVeTMpM.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Miz and his Miztourage are issued with "tickets" by Breezango</div></p><p>

The downward spiral of The Miz continued last week when he came up short alongside Samoa Joe and Elias in Six-Man Tag Team action, but with MizTV scheduled for a return tonight on Raw, The A-Lister was looking to redeem himself. But his night was already off to an unfortunate start when the Superstar Shakeup brought The Fashion Police to the red brand. Fandango and Tyler Breeze confronted The Miz and his Miztourage backstage, issuing them with tickets for their "abysmal fashion sense". Safe to say the former Intercontinental Champion was furious, but Breezango simply handed him his ticket and left, leaving The A-List trio in a fit of rage.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">The Authors of Pain def. Heath Slater & Rhyno</div></p><p>

The #RawAfterMania brought a dose of pain to Monday nights as The Authors of Pain arrived on Raw. Akam and Rezar, accompanied by Paul Ellering, decimated Titus Worldwide in their red brand debut. This week saw Heath Slater and Rhyno try their hand at toppling the former NXT Tag Team Champions, but unfortunately, they suffered the same fate and Heath Slater was crushed by The Last Chapter, serving AOP with yet another victory.</p><p> </p><p>

Paul Ellering led the celebration with a sinister applause, and the WWE Universe had no choice but to watch in awe. The Authors of Pain are already making an impact, and the tag team division need to be taking note.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Ghnlr17.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Ghnlr17.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Kurt Angle says he believes in Ronda Rousey</div></p><p>

Stephanie McMahon is far from finished with Ronda Rousey, and she proved that when last week, Nia Jax played the role of The Billionaire Baroness' personal weapon, assaulting the former UFC competitor during her address to the WWE Universe. Despite this, the Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle pulled The Rowdy One to one side in his office to offer his support and declare his belief in Rousey. Of course, Ronda was never going to back down from a fight, and guaranteed that Stephanie would regret continuing her vendetta when she takes out her muscle, Nia Jax at Backlash.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Raw Women's Champion Asuka, Ember Moon, Bayley, Naomi & Becky Lynch def. Sasha Banks, Alexa Bliss & Absolution</div></p><p>

You thought Raw's women's division couldn't get any bigger? You thought wrong. Courtesy of the Superstar Shakeup, the red brand received two former Women's Champions in the form of Becky Lynch and Naomi. The energetic pair joined forces with newly acquired superstar, Ember Moon, Bayley and the Raw Women's Champion, Asuka to combat the devious combination of Sasha Banks, Alexa Bliss and Absolution. Chaos ensued as bodies began to fly around the ring, but with Naomi showcasing her agility and flying over the ropes to take out all three members of Absolution, Becky Lynch was able to dispose of Sasha Banks with a Bexloder leaving Ember Moon to deliver the captivating Eclipse to Little Miss Bliss for the win.</p><p> </p><p>

The former NXT Women's Champion celebrated inside the ring alongside Naomi and Becky Lynch, but the comradary soon dissolved when The Empress of Tomorrow returned to the ring and confronted her three partners, realising quickly that this alliance was only temporary, and before her stood three potential contenders for her Raw Women's Championship. Are any of these new Raw superstars ready for Asuka?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/wKDQ4jm.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/wKDQ4jm.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Baron Corbin arrives on Raw and declares his intention to take Raw by storm</div></p><p>

The superstars just kept on coming as part of the Superstar Shakeup, and next to join the red brand was The Lone Wolf, Baron Corbin. During an interview with Charly Caruso, the former United States Champion declared his intention to take Raw by storm and secure himself the position that he feels he deserves more than anyone else, and that's the position at the top. Baron Corbin made a very bold guarantee that before 2018 is over - he will become the Universal Champion.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Bray Wyatt def. Jason Jordan</div></p><p>

The Great War may be over, but The Woken Alliance has only just begun. Bray Wyatt shocked the entire WWE Universe when he returned to Raw to seemingly join forced with his former arch-nemesis, Matt Hardy last week. The Eater of Worlds reinforced his alliance with The Woken One with a match against Hardy's opponent from last week, Jason Jordan. With Matt Hardy in his corner, the former World Champion secured himself a returning victory, dropping the son of Kurt Angle with a Sister Abigail and hooking the leg for the three.</p><p> </p><p>

This alliance of light and dark proved effective as "Woken" Matt Hardy applauded his new ally, Wyatt dropping to his knees in worship of The Woken One. The tag team division should prepare for this bizarre union, as Hardy and Wyatt transcend time and space in the name of The Woken Warriors. WONDERFUL!</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">American Alpha reunite as Chad Gable arrives on Raw</div></p><p>

His loss to Bray Wyatt just moments before left Jason Jordan in quite the slump, but a familiar face emerged on Raw to hopefully raise his spirits. Chad Gable arrived on the red brand as part of the Superstar Shakeup and confronted his former partner backstage. Offering his assistance, the pair seemed to rekindle their old alliance and reform American Alpha in the hope of further both men's careers. Can the former SmackDown Tag Team Champions revisit their former glory on Monday nights?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/NEjQyHY.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/NEjQyHY.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">MizTV is crashed by Finn Bálor and descends into chaos until Bobby Lashley makes a surprising arrival</div></p><p>

Despite being advertised as the special guest, it turns out that The Miz had no intention of inviting the new Intercontinental Champion, Finn Bálor to join him on MizTV, claiming that it was a writing error. The A-Lister went on to verbally dress-down his rival in a scathing tirade before officially declaring that in 11 days at the Greatest Royal Rumble event, he would challenge the reigning Champion to a rematch where he guaranteed he would reclaim his gold and break the record of Chris Jericho by becoming a 10-time Intercontinental Champion. But his title claims were crashed by the very man who he was targeting.</p><p> </p><p>

Finn Bálor arrived on the scene, (uninvited according to The Miz) and accepted The A-Lister's challenge for a bout in Saudi Arabia. But rather than make the audience wait, suggested that they settled their differences there and then. As expected, The Miz wormed his way out of the confrontation and instead offered Bálor an alternative - a 2-on-1 Handicap Match against Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas. (What an intriguing deal... not!) Finn Bálor was ready to take on The Miztourage, but luckily for him, an unlikely ally appeared to have his back as the recently returned Bobby Lashley arrived on the scene!</p><p> </p><p>

Standing side-by-side with the Intercontinental Champion, Bobby Lashley chased away The Miz and his Miztourage, only for the trio to be halted by the Raw General Manager who appeared on the titantron. Kurt Angle delivered some bad news to The Miz, Axel and Dallas, confirming that The Miztourage would indeed be competing against Finn Bálor, but with Bobby Lashley as his tag team partner. And that was going to happen - right now!</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Intercontinental Champion Finn Bálor & Bobby Lashley def. The Miztourage</div></p><p>

Shocking the WWE Universe with his unannounced return on the #RawAfterMania to deliver a surprising assault to Brock Lesnar, Bobby Lashley was officially declared a Raw superstar. Now alongside Finn Bálor, the unlikely duo dominated their adversaries and while the Intercontinental Champion delivered a Coup de Grace to Bo Dallas, Curtis Axel was the victim of a devastating Dominator, courtesy of the former United States Champion. Moments later, Bobby Lashley hooked the leg and The Miz was left furious as he and Bálor picked up the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

The Miz and his Miztourage were forced into retreat by Finn Bálor and Bobby Lashley who stood united in the ring. Can The Miz overcome this and regain the Intercontinental Championship at the Greatest Royal Rumble? And the question remains - where does Bobby Lashley fit heading into the grand spectacle in Saudi Arabia?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/omqtZUG.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/omqtZUG.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Tommaso Ciampa makes a shock arrival on Raw amidst warnings from William Regal to Raw GM, Kurt Angle</div></p><p>

The General Manager of NXT, William Regal surprised the WWE Universe with his appearance on Raw, but it was an unfortunate circumstance that led him to make his return to the red brand. Confronting the Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle in his office, Regal warned the Hall of Famer that one of his Superstar Shakeup decisions may come back to bite him. Of course, the Olympic Gold Medalist assured his NXT counterpart that there was nothing to worry about, but it quickly became apparent why William Regal felt the need to express his concerns.</p><p> </p><p>

Former NXT superstar, Tommaso Ciampa walked into the office with a glazed expression as the WWE Universe showered him in disdain. The Psycho Killer made his red brand debut as part of the Superstar Shakeup and came nose-to-nose with his former boss, William Regal in an intense moment that Angle was forced to diffuse. The Raw GM calmed the situation with a handshake, welcoming Ciampa to Raw with open arms, but the former NXT talent explained that the only reason he agreed to come to Raw was to wait for Johnny Gargano's inevitable arrival, promising to finish him off once and for all.</p><p> </p><p>

An awkward moment followed as Kurt Angle tried to get Tommaso Ciampa to see the bigger picture and forget about Johnny Gargano, but The Psycho Killer simply shook his head and left the office, leaving William Regal with only one more thing to say - "I told you so".</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Bobby Roode def. Goldust</div></p><p>

There may be only one word to describe this Shakeup decision - GLORIOUS! The former United States Champion, Bobby Roode came to Raw to the delight of the WWE Universe and went toe-to-toe with Goldust in his debut match. The Glorious One showcased his talent and finished off his golden adversary with a Glorious DDT, securing his debut victory and arriving on Monday nights with glorious impact.</p><p> </p><p>

Having lost his United States Championship at WrestleMania, it was clear that Roode hoped to find new success on the red brand, and he's off to a glorious start.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Jinder Mahal and Sunil Singh join Raw and decline an investment from Titus Worldwide</div></p><p>

Titus Worldwide are always on the lookout for new recruits, and it just so happens that their latest scouting session came across new Raw superstar, Jinder Mahal. The former WWE Champion, was confronted by Titus O'Neil and his crew, but Titus' advances were quickly prevented by Sunil Singh who advised that they stay away from The Modern Day Maharajah. This didn't deter Titus as he continued to offer his services to Mahal, promising to make his arrival on Raw a "worldwide phenomenon". Jinder Mahal stepped forward to confront O'Neil and explained that he needed nobody to help him reach the top as he has already proved, explaining that an alliance with Titus Worldwide would be a step backwards for his reputation. Having well and truly shrugged off Titus' advances, Dana Brooke was left horrified at Jinder's comments. Maybe a contract with Titus Worldwide isn't for everyone?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/ZVeTMpM.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/ZVeTMpM.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Nia Jax def. Alicia Fox</div></p><p>

Nia Jax certainly fits the bill for a hired gun on the payroll of Stephanie McMahon, and the woman known as The Irresistible Force may well be the kind of dominant superstar that can give Ronda Rousey an even fight. The aggressive superstar made an example of Alicia Fox on Raw, finishing her off with a brutal Samoan Drop for the victory, finishing off the former Divas Champion in a matter of minutes.</p><p> </p><p>

Looking as dominant as ever, Nia Jax raised her hands to the air, only to be confronted by the very person she assaulted last week - "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey! The Rowdy One stormed to the ring, much to the delight of the WWE Universe and engaged in a hard-hitting brawl with her Backlash opponent, and astonishingly sent Jax crashing to the canvas with a powerful belly-to-belly slam that sent Jax reeling to the outside. Stephanie McMahon may have put all her chips on Nia Jax, but Ronda isn't going to let The Billionaire Baroness and her hand-picked assailant get the better of her.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Riott Squad join Raw's women's division and promise nothing but dominance</div></p><p>

Speaking of dominant females, Charly Caruso would find herself joined by three of Raw's newest female acquisitions - The Riott Squad. Ruby Riott, Liv Morgan and Sarah Logan made their voices heard and promised a takeover of Raw, following on from their dominant arrival on SmackDown LIVE last year. Get ready for a riot, because The Riott Squad are on the red brand.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/hdIt6DN.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/hdIt6DN.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">The Revival def. Raw Tag Team Champions Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins</div></p><p>

The new Raw Tag Team Champions had momentum on their side, and a bout against The Revival looked to be one they would once again put under their belts as a victory. But thanks to the intervention of the thorn in their side - The Bar - Dash Wilder and Scott Dawson were able to secure a titanic win over the former Shield brothers in this non-title bout. With Sheamus and Cesaro distracting The Big Dog from his duty in the match, Seth Rollins was left to suffer the Shatter Machine, giving the former NXT Tag Team Champions the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

The Celtic Warrior wasted no time taking to the microphone to laugh hysterically at his unfortunate foes, along with his Swiss partner, Cesaro. But laughter wasn't the only thing on their mind, as The Bar made the official declaration that they would be receiving one more shot at the Raw Tag Team Championships at the Greatest Royal Rumble event in Saudi Arabia. Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins may have been under the impression that they had finished with The Bar once and for all, but it seems that their pursuit of the titles is not over yet.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Mojo Rawley's debut ends in misery as Braun Strowman returns to Raw</div></p><p>

Not everybody's debut on Raw can be a walk in the park, and Mojo Rawley found that out the hard way. The aggressive superstar unleashed an angry tirade on the WWE Universe, citing his under-appreciation and believing that his career has been held back so he's now going to take his own opportunities on Raw. Hoping to kick his Raw career off with an impact, Mojo Rawley laid out an open challenge, but this may have been his gravest mistake as it was answered by a very, <i>very</i> disgruntled Braun Strowman.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Braun Strowman def. Mojo Rawley</div></p><p>

Laying low since WrestleMania, Braun Strowman made an explosive return to Raw to answer the open challenge of Mojo Rawley. But honestly, this wasn't about any open challenge. This was about The Monster Among Men unleashing some pent-up rage on anyone he could get his hands on, and Mojo Rawley just so happened to be out in the open long enough to fall victim to Strowman's fury. Despite his best efforts, Rawley suffered not one, but <i>two</i> Running Powerslams before being pinned by the monstrous Braun Strowman.</p><p> </p><p>

Following the ring bell, a rare moment occurred where The Monster Among Men grabbed a microphone and addressed the WWE Universe, declaring that he isn't going to take any prisoners. Anybody who crosses him will suffer the same fate that Mojo Rawley had done, and everyone is going to "get these hands"! Getting a somewhat excited reaction from the WWE Universe, Braun Strowman took his leave. His loss to The Undertaker may not have just been disappointing for Strowman, but it might have been devastating for the entire Raw roster.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Natalya joins the Raw brand with a familiar face in her corner</div></p><p>

The Superstar Shakeup continued throughout the night, and a familiar face joined Kurt Angle in his office. Former Women's Champion, Natalya entered the room with a smile from ear-to-ear, happy to be a part of Raw once again. Welcoming her with open arms, The Olympic Gold Medalist expressed his excitement to have Nattie on Monday nights. But Natalya had a question for Mr. Angle, and a request for her to be joined on Raw by someone very close to her. That person just so happened to be her husband, Tyson Kidd. The former Tag Team Champion emerged to the delight of the WWE Universe and shook the hand of the Raw General Manager before declaring his intention to see Natalya reach the top of her game and become the Raw Women's Champion. Welcome to Raw, Natalya. And welcome back, Tyson Kidd!</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/LP6nKCX.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/LP6nKCX.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Jeff Hardy def. Elias</div></p><p>

The shocking return of Jeff Hardy last week led to a blockbuster Six-Man Tag Team Main Event that saw the former World Champion on the winning team, with Elias on the receiving end of a loss. The situation became one-on-one this week with The Charismatic Enigma competing in his first singles bout back since returning from injury, and a successful one it was. The Sinister Songsmith attempted to steal a victory throughout the match with his underhanded tactics, but when Jeff Hardy got him right where he wanted him, it was Swanton city for Elias, and Hardy secured himself yet another win.</p><p> </p><p>

During his victory celebration, Jeff Hardy found himself assaulted from behind by his adversary. Elias looked to get his revenge for having his momentum crashed by the former World Champion and grabbed his guitar for a musical assault. However, Hardy was able to duck the shot and instead delivered a Twist of Fate to Elias before picking up the guitar for himself and playing a tune for his fallen foe. It's a shame that Elias was probably too unconscious to hear it.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Tye Dillinger joins Raw to make the red brand a Perfect 10</div></p><p>

Many people already believe that Monday Night Raw is a fairly perfect show, but is it really a Perfect 10? Well it is now. Tye Dillinger joined the Raw brand as part of the Superstar Shakeup and vowed to make Monday nights nothing short of a Perfect 10. Tye Dillinger make his Raw debut next week!</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/VoL5OqV.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/VoL5OqV.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Universal Champion Shinsuke Nakamura def. Dolph Ziggler via disqualification</div></p><p>

Shinsuke Nakamura's impending match with Samoa Joe at the Greatest Royal Rumble is undoubtedly playing on The Rockstar's mind, but this week he was forced to contend with a mystery opponent, and that opponent turned out to be The Showoff, Dolph Ziggler. Jumping from SmackDown LIVE, the former World Champion took on The King of Strong Style in a non-title main event that tore the house down in Connecticut. Back and forth the two went, with Ziggler looking to secure a huge debut victory over the Universal Champion. But their classic was soon to be ruined by an uninvited guest - the number one contender, Samoa Joe. The Destroyer invaded ringside and viciously assaulted the Universal Champion as he prepared for the Kinshasa, forcing the referee to call for a disqualification.</p><p> </p><p>

Samoa Joe and Dolph Ziggler formed an impromptu alliance to deliver a beating to The Rockstar as the WWE Universe were forced to watch on in horror. But it just so happens that one more superstar was left to make the transition from blue to red, and that superstars just so happened to be The Viper, Randy Orton! The former World Champion stormed the ringside are and sent Samoa Joe crashing to the outside with a clothesline before delivering an RKO to Dolph Ziggler to save Shinsuke Nakamura from further harm. Standing side-by-side, Shinsuke Nakamura and Randy Orton fended off Samoa Joe and Dolph Ziggler to bring Raw to an exciting close. And with the Superstar Shakeup continuing tomorrow night on SmackDown LIVE, who will jump ship from Monday to Tuesday?!</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/WhLG0kC.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/WhLG0kC.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 12, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/N2JAJTz.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/N2JAJTz.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;text-align:center;">WWE SmackDown LIVE: April 17, 2018 in Providence, Rhode Island (Superstar Shakeup)</div></p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Shane McMahon reveals the new General Manager of SmackDown LIVE as The Miz arrives on the blue brand</div></p><p>

The Superstar Shakeup turned Monday Night Raw on its head, and it seemingly started as it meant to go on. The blue brand also played host to some foundation-shaking trades, but one of the main focal points of this week's episode came at the top of the show as Commissioner, Shane McMahon took to the ring to introduce the new General Manager of SmackDown LIVE. None other than the Rated R Superstar, Edge! The WWE Hall of Famer arrived to a thunderous ovation, taking his place at the reigns of Tuesday nights. The former World Champion took a moment to thank the WWE Universe for their support, and Shane-O-Mac for the opportunity, but immediately got down to business by bringing out the WWE Champion, AJ Styles.</p><p> </p><p>

The Phenomenal One happily made his way to the ring where he shook the hand of the legendary superstar-turned-General-Manager and gave him a personal welcome to SmackDown LIVE. As his first order of business, Edge promised to find AJ Styles a challenger for a WWE Championship bout in Saudi Arabia for the Greatest Royal Rumble event. The man known as The Ultimate Opportunist explained that he had a few names in mind, but before he could reveal his list of potential challengers, the WWE Universe were sent into a state of frenzy as Daniel Bryan interrupted the proceedings and entered the ring to confront The Phenomenal One.</p><p> </p><p>

Not one for rude interruptions, Daniel Bryan apologised for his untimely arrival, but emphasised how important this moment was for him and his career as he laid out his plea to be the number one contender for the WWE Championship now that he has made a full-time return to the ring. The Yes Man vowed to do whatever it took to earn his place as number one contender, and Edge turned to the WWE Universe for their opinion, asking if Daniel Bryan should be names the number one contender. The answer was crystal clear - "YES!" - and even AJ Styles got in on the Yes action, but before the new General Manager could make an official declaration, another interruption followed, this one perhaps not so well received.</p><p> </p><p>

The Miz emerged from the entrance and became the first superstar to make the jump to SmackDown LIVE as part of the Superstar Shakeup, storming to the ring with a furious expression. The A-Lister immediately expressed his anger at being traded to the blue brand, especially as his Miztourage allies had been left on Raw. As a result, The Miz demanded that he be named the number one contender for the WWE Championship as an apology for his "unacceptable disrespect". However, The Rated R General Manager was quick to bring Miz back down to reality and remind him that he doesn't make the decisions around here. Instead, Edge had concocted an idea which involved The Miz earning his place as number one contender if he could win his main event return to SmackDown LIVE - against Daniel Bryan!</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/voL4wdq.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/voL4wdq.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos def. The Ascension</div></p><p>

With the Superstar Shakeup well underway, The Usos could likely look forward to fresh challenges in the future. But an original SmackDown LIVE duo rose to the occasion on this night in the form of The Ascension, but even the dominant force of Konnor and Viktor was unable to stop the momentum of the SmackDown Tag Team Champions. The Usos picked up the victory with a dual Uso Splash that put the former NXT Tag Team Champions away.</p><p> </p><p>

The ring bell did not signal the end of Jimmy and Jey's night, however, as they found themselves in the cross-hairs of the destructive Bludgeon Brothers. Harper and Rowan unnervingly emerged on the stage to stare a hole through the reigning Champions before stomping their way to the ring and engaging in an all-out brawl with the Samoan twins. The Bludgeon Brothers did what they do best and bludgeoned their victims to the canvas in an uncomfortable beat down. It was only when The New Day arrived to make the save that the assault stopped and The Usos were protected from further harm. They may be rivals in the ring, but The New Day know when to put differences aside and prevent injustice.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Kassius Ohno promises to deliver a knockout blow to the SmackDown LIVE roster</div></p><p>

After appearing in the 2018 Men's Royal Rumble Match, Kassius Ohno made the transition to Monday Night Raw and made an immediate impact. Now he joins SmackDown LIVE with a message to the locker room, that he will deliver a knockout blow to the blue brand and make a name for himself on Tuesday nights.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/XBkUYhF.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/XBkUYhF.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">No Way Jose def. Local Competitor; Big Cass arrives on SmackDown LIVE</div></p><p>

The Dominican Dancing Machine conga'd his way onto SmackDown LIVE last week with a victory over a local competitor, bringing his exciting action from NXT to the blue brand. Once again, No Way Jose impressed the WWE Universe with his entertaining offence and delivered a thunderous Fastball Punch to his unsuspecting opponent, picking up yet another victory.</p><p> </p><p>

The conga line arrived and No Way was about to join in the festivities when suddenly, he was blindsided by a much more serious individual - a returning Big Cass. Fresh from an injury, the big New Yorker burst onto the scene and brutally assaulted the dancing superstar as his conga companions watched in horror. Moments after No Way Jose managed to struggle to his feet, he was taken right back down with a sickening big boot heard around the arena. Big Cass is back, and he's just as vicious as ever.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">United States Champion, Drew McIntyre promises to retain his title at the Greatest Royal Rumble</div></p><p>

If Drew McIntyre's arrival at WrestleMania took you by surprise, his brand new attitude surely will as well. The Sinister Scotsman came to the ring to make it clear that he intended to keep the United States Championship for the foreseeable future, emphasising how hard he had worked to get back to where he is now. Once known as The Chosen One, Drew McIntyre revealed that his WrestleMania bout with Bobby Roode would see a rematch at the Greatest Royal Rumble event, where The Celtic Colossus vowed to send his rival back to Raw with nothing but a loss to his name. And that would be - GLORIOUS.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/2JhFVH8.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/2JhFVH8.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Aleister Black def. Shelton Benjamin</div></p><p>

Darkness has truly fallen over the blue brand now that Aleister Black has made his presence felt. Last week, The Dutch Destroyer emerged to confront now-Raw superstar, Dolph Ziggler in a bone-chilling confrontation, but with The Showoff now jumping ship to Monday nights, Black looks to new victims. The newly solo Shelton Benjamin rose to the occasion and took on The Ominous Man from Amsterdam, but quickly fell victim to the devastating Black Mass, handing Aleister Black his first victory on SmackDown LIVE.</p><p> </p><p>

He has arrived, and evil will follow. Who will suffer the wrath of Aleister Black next?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Titus Worldwide extend their reach to SmackDown LIVE</div></p><p>

WORLDWIDE! That's right, Titus Worldwide has officially extended its reach to SmackDown LIVE and the trio looked to be on the hunt for more clients from the blue brand. After being pie-faced by Jinder Mahal on Raw, Titus O'Neil declared that he would find the "next big thing" on Tuesday nights and make them a star to represent the Titus Worldwide brand, but who will they recruit?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/voL4wdq.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/voL4wdq.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Club reunites as The Good Brothers rejoin AJ Styles on Tuesday nights</div></p><p>

The WWE Champion, AJ Styles had already made one appearance, and while he was backstage minding his own business, some familiar faces approached for a grand reunion. Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson greeted their former ally with open arms as The Club reunited before our very eyes. The former Raw Tag Team Champions congratulated The Phenomenal One on his incredible title reign before asking if the band would be back together anytime soon. AJ responded positively, claiming that there's always time for a Club reunion. One "Too Sweet" later and nostalgia had filled the arena, sending the WWE Universe wild.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Jeff Hardy def. Rusev</div></p><p>

When Rusev issued an open challenge to anybody who felt as though they could defeat The Bulgarian Brute, he probably wasn't expecting a former World Champion like Jeff Hardy to answer the call. The Charismatic Enigma made his return to SmackDown LIVE after returning from injury just one week prior on Raw, and took on Rusev in an outstanding bout. The Daredevil superstar took to the skies to defeat Rusev, despite an attempt at interference from Aiden English. Hardy dropkicked The Artist from the apron and delivered a Twist of Fate to the former United States Champion, then hitting his patented Swanton Bomb for the win.</p><p> </p><p>

Rusev probably regretted his decision to issue an open challenge, but Jeff Hardy saw the ultimate opportunity to make his exciting debut and make an impact while he did it. Could this be the rise of Jeff Hardy back to where his career in the WWE left off back in 2009?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/o8AARHo.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/o8AARHo.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Charlotte Flair crashes Carmella's Championship Celebration and it descend into chaos</div></p><p>

F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S. Carmella's "Mellabration" got underway with many WWE Universe members uninterested in her festivities, but this didn't matter for The Princess of Staten Island who was positively glowing over her history-making victory at WrestleMania. The SmackDown Women's Champion claimed that she defeated Charlotte Flair all by herself (despite Flair having competed in a gruelling bout with Becky Lynch moments before), and declared her victory a "CinderMella Story". However, her spotlight was short-lived as The Queen and former Champion stormed the ring to get her hands on the superstar who robber her of her WrestleMania moment.</p><p> </p><p>

Charlotte Flair arrived to confront her adversary, but before she could get her hands on Carmella, she was blindsided by the arrival of three new superstars - Paige, Sonya Deville and Mandy Rose of Absolution! The three dominant superstars assaulted The Queen alongside the SmackDown Women's Champion in a 4-on-1 attack. But the cavalry soon arrived in the form of more new superstars - Bayley, Mickie James and NXT's Kairi Sane! Chasing off the attackers, Bayley and Mickie James saw to it that Deville and Rose were thrown to the outside while Kairi Sane delivered a dropkick to Paige sending her through the ropes.</p><p> </p><p>

Carmella escaped without harm and quickly retreated up the ramp, clutching her SmackDown Women's Championship to her chest. With a new set of superstars now gracing the SmackDown LIVE women's division, what does this mean for Carmella and her newly acquired gold?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Samoa Joe def. Zack Ryder</div></p><p>

In just ten days, Samoa Joe challenges Shinsuke Nakamura for the Universal Championship. But thanks to the Superstar Shakeup, Raw's number one contender now calls SmackDown LIVE his home. The Destroyer made a shocking appearance on the blue brand with the annihilation of Zack Ryder, using it as a clear message to The Rockstar ahead of their clash in Saudi Arabia. The former NXT Champion brutalised The Long Island Iced-Z with a series of hard-hitting moves before forcing him into submission with the Coquina Clutch.</p><p> </p><p>

Following the ring bell, Samoa Joe unleashed a verbal tirade on the microphone, warning the Tuesday night locker room that they end had come, and that everybody would now be forced to step up their game. But his main message was to Shinsuke Nakamura - a sinister warning that he would be taking the Universal Championship in Saudi Arabia and bringing it back to SmackDown LIVE the following Tuesday. Not for the brand, not for anyone else, but for himself.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Bar join team blue and declare superiority over the tag team division</div></p><p>

Shane McMahon and the new General Manager, Edge were enjoying a quick recap of the show so far when their conversation was rudely interrupted by the arrival of SmackDown LIVE's newest tag team, The Bar. Sheamus and Cesaro approached the authority figures with smug grins and declared their arrival on team blue. The Rated R GM welcomed them to the brand, expressing his excitement to see what they can bring to the table, declaring that after all, they don't just set the bar - they ARE The Bar. But the duo did not take too kindly to Edge using their catchphrase and gave him some home truths, claiming that they are a better tag team than he and Christian ever were or could dream of being. Cesaro promised that they would bring the Raw Tag Team Championships to SmackDown LIVE when they beat Seth Rollins and Roman Reigns at the Greatest Royal Rumble, and then everyone will see just why they are The Bar.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/XjbNKj0.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/XjbNKj0.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Daniel Bryan def. The Miz to become the number one contender for the WWE Championship</div></p><p>

Talk about years in the making. The rivalry between Daniel Bryan and The Miz stems all the way back to 2010 when The Yes Man made his debut in the WWE. And now it had all come down to a match to determine the challenger for the WWE Championship at the Greatest Royal Rumble. AJ Styles sat on commentary for this bout, claiming that he wouldn't miss it for the world, and neither would we. The arch-rivals immediately clashed and engaged in a messy brawl, until Bryan turned the tide and unleashed his unique offence on The A-Lister. The Miz was able to use his signature tactics to regain the advantage and drop Bryan with a series of high-impact moves, but when The Miz turned his attention to the WWE Champion for just a moment, he lived to regret it as he turned around into the Running Knee from the former World Champion which saw the end of Miz's contendership hopes!</p><p> </p><p>

The dream return had taken another step towards glory as Daniel Bryan secured his place as the number one contender for the WWE Championship, and even AJ Styles stood up to congratulate his new challenger. Entering the ring, he confronted The Yes Man face-to-face and shared a few words before raising his WWE Championship above his head. Daniel Bryan responded how he knows best, with a series of "YES!" chants along with the WWE Universe. These two outstanding competitors collide in Saudi Arabia, but who will walk out with the coveted WWE Championship in just ten days?</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/TW0LMou.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/TW0LMou.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 13, 2018

<p><div style="width:750px;margin:auto;color:#121212;background-color:#ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/PqpqzAo.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/PqpqzAo.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font:15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;text-align:center;">WWE 205 Live: April 17, 2018 in Providence, Rhode Island</div></p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The King of the Cruiserweights addresses the nation on his return</div></p><p>

It seemed all but confirmed that Neville would not be returning to the 295 Live brand, until last week. As Cedric Alexander celebrated his monumental Cruiserweight Championship victory at WrestleMania, The King of the Cruiserweights made an earth-shaking return to crash the party and declare himself the rightful number one contender, despite Drake Maverick having already began the search for Cedric's Greatest Royal Rumble challenger. As a result, the bout will now be a Triple Threat Match, and Neville made a return to 205 Live to address the upcoming bout.</p><p> </p><p>

The former Cruiserweight Champion did not mince his words when it came to the WWE Universe and the reigning title holder, Cedric Alexander. Declaring that he would leave Saudi Arabia as the Cruiserweight Champion, regardless of who wins tonight between Drew Gulak and Kalisto, because he is The King of the Cruiserweights and will always hold his throne. Of course, the Rhode Island crowd didn't quite agree, but Neville simply shrugged them off before referring to them as "peasants in his kingdom". But his egotistical rant was about to take a different turn as General Manager, Drake Maverick arrived to ruin Neville's moment.</p><p> </p><p>

Since Neville had interrupted Maverick last week, it seemed this was him returning the favour. The leader of the purple brand welcomed Neville back to Tuesday nights with open arms, but informed him that nobody can just walk in and take the top spot without first competing for it. That being said, Drake Maverick revealed that Neville would be in action right now against Mustafa Ali.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Neville def. Mustafa Ali</div></p><p>

He can undoubtedly talk the talk, and in an impressive showing, Neville proved he can also walk the walk. The former Cruiserweight Champion was taken to the limit by the determined Mustafa Ali, but ultimately reigned supreme after evading the impressive 054 and applying his signature Rings of Saturn, forcing Ali into submission and securing his return victory.</p><p> </p><p>

The King of the Cruiserweights is most definitely back, and with his upcoming title opportunity at the Greatest Royal Rumble, could we see Neville return to his throne atop the Cruiserweight division?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/pJzJTNS.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/pJzJTNS.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Hideo Itami vows to not rest until he gets the respect deserves</div></p><p>

The change in Hideo Itami's attitude since losing at WrestleMania has been somewhat disturbing. Viciously assaulting his local opponent last week, The Japanese Sensation showed a whole new side to himself, and continued to display that anger in his interview with Dasha Fuentes. When asked about his change in attitude, Hideo Itami responded by declaring that he will not stop until he gets the respect he deserves, believing he was wrongly robbed of the Cruiserweight Championship at WrestleMania. He will stop at nothing to prove he is the most dangerous superstar on 205 Live.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Gentleman Jack Gallagher def. Akira Tozawa</div></p><p>

With the announcement of the Cruiserweight Trios Championship coming to 205 Live, the superstars have been clambering to find a unit of three to compete for the unique titles. One such alliance is the sinister duo of The Brian Kendrick and Gentleman Jack Gallagher. With the search for their third ally underway, Jack Gallagher turned his attention to singles action and with some assistance from his mentor, was able to defeat former Cruiserweight Champion, Akira Tozawa with a Gentleman's Headbutt.</p><p> </p><p>

The Wizard of Odd entered the ring to congratulate his protege and the search for their third member is free to continue. But which cruiserweight will they manage to recruit into their dastardly duo to make them a terrible trio?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/vZlvsKV.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/vZlvsKV.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Kalisto def. Drew Gulak to advance to the Cruiserweight Championship Match at the Greatest Royal Rumble</div></p><p>

After a pair of hard-fought victories from both individuals, it came down to this bout between the two to determine who would join Neville and the Cruiserweight Champion, Cedric Alexander for a match in Saudi Arabia with the coveted title on the line. A back and forth bout of two polar opposite skill-sets, with the luchadore gaining the advantage late on and combating Gulak's technical offence with his high-flying agility, escaping the Gu-Lock by reversing it into an astounding Salida del Sol for the victory, landing him a place in the Cruiserweight Championship bout at the Greatest Royal Rumble event.</p><p> </p><p>

Kalisto celebrated his victory with the WWE Universe, only to have his moment ruined by the arrival of The King of the Cruiserweights who viciously assaulted his co-challenger. Even Drew Gulak got involved in the action, joining Neville in the assault, until Cedric Alexander exploded onto the scene to make the save and fend off the attackers protecting Kalisto from further harm. With just ten days remaining until the Greatest Royal Rumble, who will enter Saudi Arabia with the momentum?</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/wflK3wb.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/wflK3wb.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></div></div></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 13, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/fETwpBo.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/fETwpBo.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;text-align:center;">WWE Greatest Royal Rumble: April 27, 2018 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/v2tHphJ.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/v2tHphJ.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">50-Man Greatest Royal Rumble Match</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/tXRKQ89.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/tXRKQ89.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Universal Champion Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Samoa Joe</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/H3NBiJB.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/H3NBiJB.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">WWE Champion AJ Styles vs. Daniel Bryan</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/1xRCmJK.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/1xRCmJK.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Intercontinental Champion Finn Bálor vs. The Miz</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/2JhFVH8.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/2JhFVH8.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">United States Champion Drew McIntyre vs. Bobby Roode</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/quCxi2N.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/quCxi2N.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Raw Tag Team Champions Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins vs. The Bar</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/fUu9lTw.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/fUu9lTw.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander vs. Neville vs. Kalisto</div></div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/YxAoCue.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/YxAoCue.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 13, 2018

<p><div style="width:750px;margin:auto;color:#121212;background-color:#ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/rfI2NwJ.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/rfI2NwJ.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font:15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;text-align:center;">WWE NXT: April 18, 2018 in New Orleans, Louisiana</div></p><p>

The trip down to New Orleans was a successful one for “The Queen of Spades” Shayna Baszler, who made her mark on the NXT Women’s division throughout the entire weekend. Some on social media have called it a “breakout weekend” for the new NXT Women’s Champion – who dominated her way to win the WWE Axxess NXT Women’s Championship Invitational Tournament and then dethroned the then-new Iconic champion to effectively put her name in the record books. This is the coronation of a Queen. This is Shayna Baszler’s journey to the NXT Women’s Championship.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">Shayna Baszler def. Bianca Belair in the 1st round of the NXT Women’s Championship Invitational</div></p><p>

The win that set the tone for the weekend for “The Queen of Spades” was a first round victory over “The EST of NXT” on Thursday, April 5th. Belair came to WWE Axxess prepared for a fight, but Baszler was focused and determined to make this as short as possible. While Belair tried to use her hair as a cracking whip, Shayna caught the locks and locked in a Kirifuda Clutch soon after to put away her first piece of competition in the Invitational.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/KETBrGy.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/KETBrGy.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">Shayna Baszler def. PROGRESS Women’s Champion Toni Storm in a non-title match in the 2nd round of the NXT Women’s Championship Invitational</div></p><p>

The second round proved to be a lot tougher for Baszler as she took on the current PROGRESS Wrestling Women’s Champion in a barnburner of a match. While it didn’t last too long, both ladies were eager to get the win from the opening bell and unleashed supreme punishment on one another in front of a wild Axxess crowd who loved every minute of the contest. Storm, however, was unable to put away “The Queen of Spades” and fell victim to the Kirifuda Clutch on Friday, April 6th that let Baszler advance to the finals later that night.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/MfEpIOV.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/MfEpIOV.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">NXT General Manager William Regal announced the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic</div></p><p>

With NXT TakeOver: New Orleans in the rear view mirror, The Undisputed ERA (now including Roderick Strong) is in need of a new set of challengers. The NXT General Manager is happy to announce the return of the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic – which will begin very soon on NXT. The winners will not only have the opportunity to hoist the coveted Dusty trophy high in the air with pride, they will be next in line to challenge for the NXT Tag Team Championships. Stay connected to WWE.com in the next few days as the brackets for this prestigious tournament is revealed to the world.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">Shayna Baszler def. Dakota Kai in the finals of the NXT Women’s Championship Invitational</div></p><p>

On Saturday, April 7th, and only an hour after dispatching Kairi Sane on NXT TV, Shayna Baszler walked into the Ernest N. Memorial Convention Center with one purpose on her mind: a quick victory. Trying to avenge her recent losses to Baszler, Dakota Kai managed to strike first against “The Queen of Spades”, but Shayna countered a kick attempt early on and put “The Captain of #TeamKick” to sleep with the Kirifuda Clutch soon thereafter to book her ticket to a NXT Women’s Championship match against Peyton Royce on the Sunday of WWE Axxess.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/ETRjHmG.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/ETRjHmG.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">Shayna Baszler def. NXT Women’s Champion Peyton Royce to win the NXT Women’s Championship</div></p><p>

Less than 24 hours before this contest, “The Iconic” Peyton Royce was able to overcome Ember Moon to win her first championship in the WWE. Her reign, however, was a short one as Shayna Baszler put her foot down on the neck of the reign and put it down with mercy. Royce fought with all her might but the “Queen of Spades” simply had too much momentum from the weekend on her side in this championship bout. Royce did manage to sneak in a few nearfalls after downing Baszler, but the Kirifuda Clutch was simply too much to handle as Royce had no choice but to tap out – declaring Shayna Baszler the new NXT Women’s Champion.</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/BaREczP.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/BaREczP.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></div></div></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 16, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/sPtS6cq.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/sPtS6cq.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;text-align:center;">WWE Raw: April 23rd, 2018 in St. Louis, Missouri</div></p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Kurt Angle announces blockbuster main event for the Raw women's division</div></p><p>

With the historic Greatest Royal Rumble event just four days away for the male superstars of Raw and SmackDown LIVE, the General Manager, Kurt Angle decided to open up this week's edition of Raw with a special announcement that would have serious implications for the Raw women's division. The Olympic Gold Medalist gathered the entire female roster of the red brand in the ring, including the Raw Women's Champion herself, Asuka.</p><p> </p><p>

The trip to Saudi Arabia would unfortunately not include the lovely ladies of the WWE, but Kurt Angle wanted to make sure they understood that while they couldn't make the journey due to cultural differences, they are very much still an important focus of Monday nights. And with that said, Kurt Angle revealed that the main event of the evening would feature a 10-Woman Battle Royal to determine Asuka's next challenger for the Raw Women's Championship at Backlash. The tension visibly rose, and as Angle gave his departing words of "good luck, ladies", the entire division focused their attention on The Empress of Tomorrow. Which of these superstars will advance to Backlash on May 6 to challenge for Raw's coveted female title?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/gk9U4xZ.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/gk9U4xZ.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Intercontinental Champion Finn Bálor def. Jinder Mahal</div></p><p>

With his Intercontinental Championship defence against The Miz just four days away in Saudi Arabia, The Extraordinary Man took on one of Raw's newest superstars thanks to the Superstar Shakeup, Jinder Mahal. The Modern Day Maharajah vowed to make this his year, but it got off to a bad start when Finn Bálor capitalised on a miscommunication between Mahal and Sunil Singh, delivering a Coup de Grace on the fallen former WWE Champion to secure the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

The IC Champ celebrated his victory, only to be assaulted from behind by Sunil Singh, looking to avenge the loss of his idol. But Finn Bálor battled back and sent Singh crashing to the outside with a clothesline. However, the worst had yet to come for the Intercontinental Champion was was attacked <i>again</i>, this time by Baron Corbin of all people. The Lone Wolf unleashed a vicious assault on Bálor, laying him out with the End of Days, clearly looking to make an impact on the red brand.</p><p> </p><p>

A GLORIOUS miracle then occurred, as former United States Champion, Bobby Roode emerged to protect Finn Bálor from further harm, chasing away Baron Corbin. The Glorious One helped the Intercontinental Champion back to his feet before handing him over his title, sharing a somewhat intense moment between Champion and potential future challenger. The two gave a nod of respect to each other as Baron Corbin and Jinder Mahal retreated with a scowl.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/G8q35Oh.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/G8q35Oh.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">The Authors of Pain def. Curtis Axel & Bo Dallas</div></p><p>

The Miztourage is no more. Say hello to the "new and improved" Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas. Well, so they say. The former followers of The Miz came to the ring with a plethora of confidence, declaring that they were stepping out of the shadow of their former ally and creating a legacy of their own, issuing an open challenge to any team who fancied their chances. This may have proved to be a costly error when The Authors of Pain arrived to answer the call. Akam and Rezar decimated the former Miztourage in their impromptu bout and finished them off with The Last Chapter.</p><p> </p><p>

Paul Ellering applauded the devastating duo as they stood tall over their fallen opponents. Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas may be their own men now, but even a new attitude isn't enough to combat the pure destruction of The Authors of Pain.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Ronda Rousey's strong words bring out Nia Jax</div></p><p>

Stephanie McMahon's personal vendetta against Ronda Rousey lives on through Nia Jax as The Irresistible Force looks to crush Rousey's WWE dreams at Backlash in her first one-on-one bout since debuting as a Raw superstar at WrestleMania. The Rowdy One emerged on Raw to an eruption of support from the WWE Universe and addressed her Backlash rival with a warning that even the dominant Nia Jax needs to take note of.</p><p> </p><p>

The former UFC competitor issued an address to Nia Jax, vowing to tear off her arm and send it to Stephanie McMahon in the mail. Of course, this didn't sit well with the woman in question and Nia Jax emerged to deliver some home truths to her Backlash opponent. The Irresistible Force called Rousey a "washed-up fighter" who is living in a dream world, believing she can make it as a WWE superstar. Jax delivered a harsh remark, telling The Rowdy One that she is a professional failure, claiming to be the most dominant female competitor in the history of this industry, promising to expose Ronda Rousey for the "fake" that she is on May 6.</p><p> </p><p>

"Rowdy" Ronda was less than impressed, but Nia Jax had the last word, leaving the stage with a smirk having dressed down her rival in front of the world. But is angering such a dangerous individual so wise?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/6MFeu65.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/6MFeu65.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/SLaDXyb.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/SLaDXyb.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Randy Orton def. Dolph Ziggler</div></p><p>

The Viper has struck, and just seconds into his arrival on the red brand delivered an RKO outta nowhere to another new Raw-dweller, Dolph Ziggler. Having already battled tooth and nail on several occasions - including at WrestleMania alongside AJ Styles for the WWE Championship - these two already know each other very well. Randy Orton's Raw return was a successful one, despite the best efforts of The Showoff to kill The Viper's momentum before it even got started. The self-proclaimed Greatest In-Ring Performer in WWE History took Orton to the max, without question, but as he attempted to deliver the final blow with a Zig Zag, he found himself on the receiving end of another RKO, which signalled the end for The Showoff.</p><p> </p><p>

The former 13-time World Champion raised his arms into the air in victory, basking in the ovation from the WWE Universe. How will The Viper fare in the 50-Man Greatest Royal Rumble Match in Saudi Arabia? Find out this Friday!</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Elias' performance gets a Perfect 10 of another kind</div></p><p>

Elias' performances are always a perfect 10 in his own mind. But this week, he got a genuine rating from someone familiar with things being The Perfect 10. As The Sinister Songsmith performed yet another of his original pieces to the less than interested WWE Universe, he covered the topic of the Greatest Royal Rumble and vowed to leave Saudi Arabia in victory, declaring that he would place his trophy next to his André the Giant Memorial Battle Royal trophy, and in the near future, will place the Universal Championship beside them. The WWE Universe disagreed, but Elias simply told them to hold their applause, silence their phones and shut their mouths!</p><p> </p><p>

The continuation of his song was cut short by an unexpected arrival, that of new Raw superstar, Tye Dillinger. The Perfect 10 emerged on the stage with the WWE Universe in the palm of his hand, much to Elias' fury. The guitar-wielding superstar asked Dillinger what he thought he was doing crashing his concert. Tye explained why he came out, offering to give Elias a review, and while Elias was smugly expecting a "Perfect 10", he received a rather embarrassing "ZERO"! The Drifter soon had enough of the humiliation and smashed his guitar over the skull of Tye Dillinger in a fit of rage before storming up the aisle.</p><p> </p><p>

Many artists have stormed off the stage in anger, but this may be the most violent yet. Something tells us Elias didn't appreciate the honest review.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/gk9U4xZ.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/gk9U4xZ.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Tommaso Ciampa def. R-Truth</div></p><p>

There's evil, and then there's Tommaso Ciampa. The former NXT superstar who joined Raw thanks to the Superstar Shakeup made his in-ring debut against veteran, R-Truth this week. The Psycho Killer made quick work of the former United States Champion, finishing off his adversary with a back-breaking Project Ciampa.</p><p> </p><p>

Blackheart, indeed. Ciampa stood over Truth with a glazed-over expression and stared out into the WWE Universe without even batting an eyelid. This man is deranged, and you have to wonder if all he sees is a sea of Johnny Gargano's staring back at him.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Samoa Joe invades Raw to brutally assault Shinsuke Nakamura</div></p><p>

The Universal Champion has had a rough few weeks following his WrestleMania victory over Brock Lesnar in New Orleans. The battle for the title is never over, even after you've capture the gold, and The Rockstar found that out the hard way when he was targeted by Samoa Joe. And even though The Destroyer is now a SmackDown LIVE superstar, he still possesses the right to challenge Shinsuke Nakamura in Saudi Arabia for the Universal Championship. The King of Strong Style took to the ring to address his upcoming defence, issuing a warning to the former NXT Champion that there is a "knee-to-face" in his future in the form of a Kinshasa.</p><p> </p><p>

Nakamura's words may have come back to bite him, however, as Samoa Joe somehow invaded the ringside area and hopped the barricade, unleashing a blindside attack on his adversary. The WWE Universe watched in horror as The Destroyer tore into the Universal Champion and applied a Coquina Clutch, only for a sea of security guards to rush the ring and pry the Samoan Submission Machine away from the fallen Champion. Samoa Joe crossed the line by invading Raw, but the sadistic grin on his face suggested that every moment was worth it.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/qRkTqEH.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/qRkTqEH.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Raw Tag Team Champions Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins def. The Revival</div></p><p>

The Bar have their rematch for the Raw Tag Team Championships set in stone for the Greatest Royal Rumble event, but who will they challenge? Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins were tasked with defending their tandem titles against The Revival who picked up a shock victory over the pair last week on Raw, thanks to involvement from the number one contenders. Dash Wilder and Scott Dawson received their opportunity to end Reigns and Rollins' title run in the early stages and go on to Saudi Arabia to defend the prize, but it wasn't to be as without The Bar on Raw to intervene again, The Revival were unable to overcome the former Shield brothers. As the former NXT Tag Team Champion attempted a Shatter Machine on The Architect, Roman Reigns delivered a mid-air Spear to Dash Wilder and Rollins landed on his feet before delivering The Stomp to Scott Dawson.</p><p> </p><p>

A successful title defence and just one more to go as the pair defend their titles against Sheamus and Cesaro this Friday. Will the result be the same as WrestleMania, or will The Bar claim their fifth Raw Tag Team Championships in Saudi Arabia?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Kurt Angle delivers some grave news to Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn</div></p><p>

The dastardly duo of Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn showed no respect to Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle when they exploded into his office on Raw, demanding to know why he put them against each other last week. The Olympic Gold Medalist said it was a lesson to them that they won't be running roughshod over Monday nights, and that's why he gave them the opportunity to show what they can do against each other. "Kami" didn't appreciate the response and instead informed Angle that he would never succeed in driving a wedge between the two of them, just like Shane McMahon couldn't on SmackDown LIVE.</p><p> </p><p>

Surprisingly, Kurt Angle was quite happy with this news and said he was glad to hear that Owens and Zayn would remain friends and a tag team unit, because he was in search of a Raw tag team for the big match at the Greatest Royal Rumble this Friday. The eyes of the best friends lit up as Sami Zayn repeatedly thanked Kurt Angle for the opportunity to challenge for the Raw Tag Team Championships, vowing to defeat Reigns, Rollins and The Bar in Saudi Arabia. But his thanks may have been somewhat premature, as the Raw GM informed them that the Raw Tag Team Championships Match was <i>not</i> what he was referring to. And Kevin Owens may regret asking what exactly he <i>was</i> referring to.</p><p> </p><p>

Dropping the enormous bombshell, Kurt Angle revealed that the match they would be competing in would be historic, as it will be against none other than - The Brothers of Destruction! White as a ghost would be an understatement as the colour drained from the faces of Owens and Zayn. "Good luck, guys" quipped Angle as he left the pair in a state of shock. Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn are in GRAVE danger this Friday night in Saudi Arabia.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/rwL9NJP.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/rwL9NJP.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Bobby Lashley def. Curt Hawkins</div></p><p>

You'd think Curt Hawkins would have learnt his lesson by now, but still he attempts to break his seemingly never-ending losing streak. Luck was not on his side this week as Bobby Lashley emerged as the opponent of The Prince of Queens, finishing him off in swift fashion with a Spear, followed by the devastating Dominator, handing Hawkins yet another loss to his incomparable record.</p><p> </p><p>

The Dominator stood tall over his opponent, the WWE Universe behind him all the way. But his victory was overshadowed (quite literally) by the arrival of the towering Braun Strowman. The Monster Among Men trudged towards the ring as the WWE Universe began to anticipate a titanic clash between him and Lashlet, only for the two to come face-to-face in a staredown for the ages. But instead of coming to blows, Strowman grabbed the rag-doll-like Curt Hawkins and hoisted him onto his shoulder before driving him into the canvas with a Running Powerslam. Engaging in one last staredown, Braun Strowman left the ring with no explanation, leaving Bobby Lashley looking on in confusion. What was the meaning of Strowman's presence? And will these two behemoths clash in this Friday's 50-Man Greatest Royal Rumble Match?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Mojo Rawley challenges Braun Strowman to a rematch next week</div></p><p>

They say that brains and brawn don't tend to go hand in hand, and maybe they are right. Renee Young interviewed new Raw superstar, Mojo Rawley who had an unfortunate debut last week when Braun Strowman answered his open challenge and destroyed the former SmackDown LIVE superstar with ease. Mojo Rawley declared that he would easily topple the giant if he wasn't taken by surprise, issuing another challenge to The Monster Among Men for a match next week. The former "Hype Bro" revealed that he intends to win this Friday's 50-Man Greatest Royal Rumble Match, and then prove his superiority by slaying the monster that is Braun Strowman.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/k8loq8V.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/k8loq8V.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">American Alpha def. "Woken" Matt Hardy & Bray Wyatt</div></p><p>

Chad Gable returned to Raw and offered a helping hand to his former tag team partner to reform American Alpha. The former SmackDown Tag Team Champions reunited in the ring this week, taking on the same two men who defeated Jason Jordan in separate singles matches in weeks prior - "Woken" Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt. The Deleters of Worlds were looking to claim another victory, but the newly reunited American Alpha showed why they should never have separated with an impressive victory, hitting Matt Hardy with the Grand Amplitude for the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

Revisiting their former glory, Jordan and Gable celebrated and shared an embrace. With this team now back on the scene, the tag team division is certainly heating up by the week.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Breezango attempt to give "tickets" to The Authors of Pain</div></p><p>

Nobody is exempt from The Fashion Police, not even The Authors of Pain. As Akam, Rezar and Paul Ellering walked through the corridors of the arena, they were approached by Breezango who attempted to "ticket" the former NXT Tag Team Champions for their "horrific attire", Tyler Breeze claiming that their Kevlar get-up is old news. Ellering gave the order and AOP unleashed a vicious attack on Fandango and Breeze, sending them crashing into the steel shutter beside them. The Fashion Police just got a notice of their own - don't cross The Authors of Pain.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/XsOAfqu.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/XsOAfqu.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Becky Lynch def. Sasha Banks, Naomi, Alexa Bliss, Alicia Fox, Ember Moon, Ruby Riott, Liv Morgan, Sarah Logan & Natalya to become the number one contender for the Raw Women's Championship</div></p><p>

The Empress of Tomorrow felt the daggers earlier in the night, and now the battle would begin to find her next challenger. Ten of Raw's top female athletes partook in an Over-the-Top-Rope Battle Royal to determine who received that opportunity, and everyone wanted the spot. Chaos was quick to ensue as Alicia Fox became the first superstar to be eliminated from the bout by The Riott Squad. Next to fall was Liv Morgan after Ruby Riott and Sarah Logan were taken down by Becky Lynch and Ember Moon, allowing Naomi to tip the blonde bombshell over the ropes. The Boss struck next to eliminate Naomi from the bout, sending her crashing to the outside without any remorse. Now accompanied by her husband, Tyson Kidd, Natalya unleashed her fury, sending Sarah Logan over the top, and then disposing of Ruby Riott as well!</p><p> </p><p>

But her moment of glory was short-lived when Alexa Bliss crept up behind to dump the former Champion over the ropes. The ring became divided as Becky Lynch and Ember Moon stood on one side, with Sasha Banks and Alexa Bliss on the other. The two units came to blows and it was Alexa Bliss who crashed and burned next, thanks to a hurricanrana from the former NXT Women's Champion, Ember Moon. The War Goddess met her own fate at the hands of Sasha Banks who capitalised on Moon's inexperience, shoving her from the top as she attempted a high-risk manoeuvre. Two women remained and both are former Women's Champions in their own right, but it was The Irish Lasskicker who picked up the ultimate victory, holding onto the ropes to avoid a Bank Statement, and then using Sasha's own momentum to send her over and out.</p><p> </p><p>

The fiery redhead flung her arms into the air in victory and immediately looked over to the Raw Women's Champion who began making her way into the ring. Asuka grinned from ear-to-ear as she raised her title into the air, staring Becky Lynch directly in the face. These two women will collide on May 6 at Backlash for the Raw Women's Championship, and Becky Lynch has the opportunity to do what nobody else has been able to do - defeat Asuka.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/sdr8koR.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/sdr8koR.png"></div></a></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/WhLG0kC.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/WhLG0kC.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 26, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/N2JAJTz.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/N2JAJTz.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;text-align:center;">WWE SmackDown LIVE: April 24, 2018 in Louisville, Kentucky</div></p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">The New Day def. The Bludgeon Brothers to become the number one contenders for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships</div></p><p>

The Bludgeon Brothers have made an impact since arriving on SmackDown LIVE as a unit, rendering any team they lay their hands on bludgeoned. The two monstrous men had earned their right to become number one contenders and were tasked with taking on The New Day for the opportunity to take on The Usos for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships at the Greatest Royal Rumble. But their actions as of late meant they were not without enemies, and one such enemy was the Champions themselves. Despite dominating the bout against Big E and Xavier Woods, the pair were distracted by the arrival of Jimmy and Jey, who were here to get their revenge on Harper and Rowan for their attack last week. Big E capitalised on the situation and sent Rowan crashing to the arena floor, leaving Xavier Woods to pull off a shocker by rolling Harper up and securing a stunning three count.</p><p> </p><p>

Suffering their first loss since descending on Tuesday nights, The Bludgeon Brothers looked on in a state of shock as The New Day escaped in celebration, The Usos also giving some stern glares towards The Bludgeons. The SmackDown Tag Team Champions had just embarrassed the monstrous duo, and The New Day have earned their right to have one more epic encounter with their lifetime rivals, The Usos.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/GmmzXv0.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/GmmzXv0.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Rusev's demands for a rematch with Jeff Hardy are met with unfortunate news</div></p><p>

The Bulgarian Brute was left with egg on his face last week as his open challenge was answered by Jeff Hardy, resulting in a loss for the former United States Champion. Bursting into the office of the new SmackDown LIVE General Manager, Edge, Rusev demanded a rematch with The Charismatic Enigma on this week's episode. But The Rated R GM revealed that Hardy had already been scheduled to compete, but it wasn't against Rusev - it was against Aiden English. Could The Artist do what The Bulgarian Brute could not and defeat the former World Champion?</p><p> </p><p>

Party's over. Big Cass has arrived on SmackDown LIVE, and the first individual to learn that first hand was No Way Jose. The Dominican Dancing Machine had his conga line derailed by the big man who arrived on the blue brand courtesy of the Superstar Shakeup. In his first bout since returning from injury, Big Cass reigned supreme over his adversary, finishing off No Way with a stiff big boot to the jaw that knocked the former NXT superstar out cold.</p><p> </p><p>

The mean streak begins as Big Cass claims his first SmackDown LIVE victim. With the big man now back in full force and appearing to be as dangerous as ever, could Big Cass be a potential threat to the WWE Championship?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/buzcrJ7.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/buzcrJ7.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Titus Worldwide attempt to recruit Shelton Benjamin</div></p><p>

Shelton Benjamin's return to singles competition didn't go as smoothly as he had hoped when Aleister Black defeated him with a Black Mass last week. The self-proclaimed Gold Standard took to the microphone backstage to vent his frustrations to Renee Young, only to be interrupted by the arrival of Titus Worldwide. The trio made an attempt to recruit the former Intercontinental and United States Champion to their cause, offering him "guaranteed success" if he signed the deal with Titus Worldwide. However, Benjamin had little to no interest in siding with Titus O'Neil and his clients, proclaiming that he needed to help to reach his potential, vowing to end Aleister Black's momentum in this week's scheduled rematch.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">United States Champion Drew McIntyre def. Kassius Ohno</div></p><p>

At the Greatest Royal Rumble, Bobby Roode will get his WrestleMania rematch for the United States Championship, but Drew McIntyre has no intentions of letting go of the star-spangled title. In this bout with one of SmackDown LIVE's newest superstars, Kassius Ohno, The Sinister Scotsman displayed his aggression and sent a physical warning to The Glorious One ahead of their contest in Saudi Arabia. Avoiding the KO Elbow, McIntyre responded with a Claymore to secure the win over The Knockout Artist.</p><p> </p><p>

Moments after defeating his fellow former NXT alumnus, the United States Champion took to the microphone to remind the WWE Universe that he is indeed The Chosen One, and that this Friday would be far from "glorious" for Bobby Roode.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Bar guarantee victory at the Greatest Royal Rumble</div></p><p>

Sheamus and Cesaro's claim to be bringing the Raw Tag Team Championship to SmackDown LIVE... how does that work? Anyway, The Bar gave a direct message to Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins, venting in the backstage area and promising to take back their titles in Saudi Arabia. But their address was interrupted by the arrival of another of SmackDown LIVE's newest tandems, Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson. The Good Brothers explained that Sheamus and Cesaro would be forced to accept their true fate at the Greatest Royal Rumble - as a pair of NERDS. One "Too Sweet" later and Gallows and Anderson left, The Bar looking on in a rage.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/20eLYHJ.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/20eLYHJ.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Aleister Black def. Shelton Benjamin</div></p><p>

The second encounter was different from the first, but it ultimately ended the same way. Shelton Benjamin aimed to prove that his loss to Aleister Black last week was nothing more than a fluke, but despite his best efforts and his display of determination, he was introduced to yet another Black Mass from The Dutch Destroyer and laid out cold, suffering yet another loss.</p><p> </p><p>

The Gold Standard had been left in the dirt once more by his Evil opponent, and the WWE Universe were delighted. Aleister Black's arrival on SmackDown LIVE came as a shock to everyone, and Benjamin has been the only one to suffer the consequences so far. Who else will become a victim of The Ominous Man's unorthodox offence?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Samoa Joe gives a sinister warning to Shinsuke Nakamura</div></p><p>

Superstars have crossed the line on many occasions, but Samoa Joe's recent invasion of Monday Night Raw came at the expense of the Universal Champion, Shinsuke Nakamura. The Destroyer interrupted his upcoming opponent's address to the WWE Universe to issue a brutal beating ahead of their Championship clash in Saudi Arabia. Samoa Joe arrived in the arena and stood before the WWE Universe to give a sinister warning to the man he will face at the Greatest Royal Rumble. According to the former NXT Champion, what happened on Raw was only the tip of the iceberg, and there's a whole lot worse to come for The King of Strong Style. Next stop, Saudi Arabia. And Samoa Joe has his sights firmly set on capturing the Universal Championship, and destroying Shinsuke Nakamura.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/YaunRaj.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/YaunRaj.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">WWE Champion AJ Styles def. The Miz via disqualification</div></p><p>

The Miz's hopes of becoming number one contender in his SmackDown LIVE return were dashed thanks to his long-time nemesis, Daniel Bryan who will instead be the one to go onto the Greatest Royal Rumble to compete for the WWE Championship against AJ Styles. But this week, The A-Lister had his opportunity to prove his capability against the Champion himself. The Phenomenal One and The Miz collided in an epic bout this week, but Miz ruined it for himself when he chose to steal the WWE Championship from ringside and use it as a weapon, drilling Styles over the head and causing the match to be thrown out in a disqualification finish.</p><p> </p><p>

The Awesome One continued his assault on the WWE Champion, until a familiar face arrived to save the day. Daniel Bryan stormed to the ring and engaged in a brawl with his arch-rival before delivering the second Running Knee in as many weeks to the jaw of The A-Lister, sending him up the aisle in retreat. The Yes Man assisted AJ Styles to his feet as they both watched The Miz scurry back to the stage, before turning to each other and showing respect ahead of their title clash this Friday in Saudi Arabia.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Mike Kanellis returns to SmackDown LIVE soon</div></p><p>

The Prodigy will return to SmackDown LIVE. Having been absent since appearing at the 2018 Royal Rumble to compete for the United States Championship, Mike Kanellis will indeed return to SmackDown LIVE soon, and in an exclusive interview with WWE.com, he informed the WWE Universe that he intended to show off his true talent, and make his wife and baby girl proud.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/CTVYOEm.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/CTVYOEm.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Jeff Hardy def. Aiden English</div></p><p>

It isn't quite what Rusev had asked for, but it was close enough. Aiden English had the chance to avenge his Bulgarian ally by taking on The Charismatic Enigma, Jeff Hardy himself. But like Rusev last week, The Artiste suffered the same fate - a Twist of Fate to be exact - and was ultimately put away by the ever-impressive Swanton Bomb. Safe to say The Bulgarian Brute was less than pleased with his partner's performance.</p><p> </p><p>

Hardy's celebration was cut short, however, as Rusev decided to unleash a barbaric attack on the former World Champion, laying him out with a superkick and applying The Accolade, refusing to release the hold despite the officials warnings. Multiple officials had to rush the ring to pry Rusev away from his adversary, finally releasing the hold and tending to the fallen Hardy. It seems as though nobody gets the better of Rusev when it's Rusev Day.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Miz vents his anger to Renee Young</div></p><p>

After receiving his second Running Knee in two weeks from Daniel Bryan, The Miz was approached by Renee Young for some thoughts on his old rival. Obviously, it was nothing good as the former World Champion called The Yes Man a dead man walking. In his own words, after Miz disposes of Finn Bálor at the Greatest Royal Rumble and takes back <i>his</i> Intercontinental Championship, he will put Daniel Bryan back on the shel an show everyone that they have no choice but to respect him and acknowledge him as The Most Must-See WWE Superstar in History!</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/6LqkGlS.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/6LqkGlS.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Charlotte Flair, Bayley, Mickie James & Kairi Sane def. SmackDown Women's Champion Carmella & Absolution</div></p><p>

SmackDown LIVE's women's division had an unbelievable Superstar Shakeup, bringing several new superstars to the dance. Absolution made an immediate impact when they assaulted former Women's Champion, Charlotte Flair, but The Queen had her own backup in the form of Bayley, Mickie James and brand new superstars from NXT, Kairi Sane. Alongside the reigning SmackDown Women's Champion, Carmella, this star-studded list of superstars collided in an Eight-Woman Tag Team main event. Bodies began to fly around the ring as all eight women looked to make a statement heading into Backlash in just two weeks. As the chaos died down and only two remained, Charlotte Flair was able to isolate Mandy Rose and apply the Figure-Eight Leglock, forcing the blonde bombshell into submission, giving her, Bayley, Mickie and Sane the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

Of course, The Princess of Staten Island took the opportunity to flee from ringside with her coveted prize, clutching it to her chest as The Queen looked on up with a smirk. But before Carmella could escape completely, she was cut off by SmackDown LIVE's new General Manager, Edge who informed her that her night wasn't quite over, because he had some news for her regarding her SmackDown Women's Championship. The Rated R GM informed her that she would be defending her title at Backlash, and her opponent will be - Charlotte Flair! Carmella's face told the whole story, and The Queen looked on with her goals crystal clear - to reclaim her throne.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/xWZJZyc.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/xWZJZyc.png"></div></a></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/TW0LMou.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/TW0LMou.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · May 29, 2018

<p><div style="width:750px;margin:auto;color:#121212;background-color:#ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/PqpqzAo.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/PqpqzAo.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font:15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;text-align:center;">WWE 205 Live: April 24, 2018 in Louisville, Kentucky</div></p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Hideo Itami def. Mark Andrews</div></p><p>

The intensity of Hideo Itami continued to shine through as he unleashed his pent up rage on Mark Andrews. Despite the Brit's best efforts, he could not combat the aggression shown by The Japanese Sensation and fell victim to the Go To Sleep, laying him out and allowing Itami to secure the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

Another superstar falls to the onslaught of The Don from Nihon, and Itami continues his path of destruction. Which cruiserweight will suffer his anger next?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/bP1lfXM.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/bP1lfXM.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Brian Kendrick & Gentleman Jack Gallagher recruit Marcel Barthel</div></p><p>

The search continued for The Brian Kendrick's second accomplice, making his duo with Gentleman Jack Gallagher a trio. As the pair prowled the backstage area, they came into contact with fellow cruiserweight, Marcel Barthel. Approaching the German superstar, Kendrick explained that he had had his eye on Barthel for quite some time, and offered him a place in his "plan". Barthel seemed intrigued and said he would think about the offer before taking off for his bout up next.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Marcel Barthel def. Lince Dorado</div></p><p>

The German displayed his talent inside the ring, with The Brian Kendrick and Gentleman Jack emerging at ringside to witness their potential ally in action. Gran Metalik joined ringside to support his fellow luchadore, but as Kendrick issued an order for Gallagher to get involved, it allowed Barthel to capitalise and deliver a Landungsbrücken to The Golden Lynx for the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

Marcel Barthel joined The Wizard of Odd and his British protege on the outside, seemingly confirming their alliance. The German cruiserweight shook hands with his new companions and left with his hands raised. This is most definitely a force to be reckoned with on 205 Live.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Admzv7R.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Admzv7R.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#45227e;">Neville & Drew Gulak def. Cedric Alexander & Kalisto</div></p><p>

The Greatest Royal Rumble is just three days away, and the Cruiserweight Championship competitors could not be more ready. The three superstars involved competed along with Drew Gulak in this intense tag team bout. The Cruiserweight Champion and one of his top contenders formed a strong alliance, but the combination of Neville and Gulak's fierce offence was too much to handle, and while Gulak retained Kalisto on the outside, Neville pulled out a huge victory by forcing Cedric Alexander into submission with The Rings of Saturn, scoring his own victory over the reigning Champion just days before their Triple Threat encounter.</p><p> </p><p>

The King of the Cruiserweights and his equally aggressive ally stood tall and left ringside as the luchadore, Kalisto tended to the fallen Cruiserweight Champion. Neville's return had shook the foundations of 205 Live, and it appears to have knocked Cedric Alexander off-balance. Could the Greatest Royal Rumble be the end of Alexander's Cinderella run as Champion of the purple brand?</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/wflK3wb.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/wflK3wb.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></div></div></p><p> </p><p>

unwound · May 30, 2018

Liking how the Superstar Shake Up has gone and the callups to the main roster too!

Micah Cage · June 2, 2018

I'm just saying... I'd totally watch a tutorial taught by you on how you do your graphics. They're all so good.

ElliotM · June 2, 2018

<p><div style="width:750px;margin:auto;color:#121212;background-color:#ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/rfI2NwJ.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/rfI2NwJ.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font:15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;text-align:center;">WWE NXT: April 25, 2018 in Orlando, Florida</div></p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">The Street Profits def. Tino Sabbatelli & Riddick Moss in the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic</div></p><p>

In the opening round of the 2018 Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic, The Street Profits showcased their ability against the formidable duo of Tino Sabbatelli and Riddick Moss. Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins proved their worth as a unit on NXT and came one step closer to capturing the prestigious trophy, with Ford hitting his Frog Splash on a supine Moss for the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/Vp7BtT3.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/Vp7BtT3.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Johnny Gargano's plans on chasing the NXT Championship hit a little detour</div></p><p>

Johnny Wrestling's journey to the NXT Championship continues to be a bumpy one as he addressed the WWE Universe, finally declaring that he had become rid of his demons (namely Tommaso Ciampa) and declared that he is ready to dethrone Andrade "Cien" Almas. However, Gargano's emotional speech was interrupted by one of NXT's newest acquisitions - EC3. The self-proclaimed "Top 1%" informed Gargano that he should get in line, because if anyone is to get the next opportunity at the NXT Championship, it's a simple answer - E-C-3.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">Nikki Cross def. Vanessa Borne</div></p><p>

Unhinged doesn't even begin to describe Nikki Cross. The Psychotic Scot unleashed all fury on her adversary, Vanessa Borne in a highly one-sided beating on this week's edition of NXT. Cross finished off her opponent with The Purge, securing herself a victory. But this win seemed to take a backseat to Cross' desire to inflict pain. That was her victory.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Undisputed ERA reveal that due to Bobby Fish's injury, Roderick Strong is now an NXT Tag Team Champion</div></p><p>

Due to injury, The Undisputed ERA's Bobby Fish had been forced to relinquish his position as an NXT Tag Team Champion, but this wasn't going to hold back Adam Cole's unit, with The Industry Ruler revealing that Roderick Strong would take Fish's place as title holder alongside Kyle O'Reilly. And that being said, Roddy promised that whoever won the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic this year would undoubtedly be handed a loss at the hands of The Undisputed ERA, because they're going to hold the NXT Tag Team Championships for a very, <i>very</i> long time.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">Lars Sullivan def. Two Local Competitors</div></p><p>

The Freak is here. Showing everyone why he is arguably the most dominant force in NXT, Lars Sullivan decimated two local competitors with ease, using his brute force to dismantle his opponents. But the biggest story was perhaps The Velveteen Dream's presence, as the flamboyant superstar watched on, observing Lars' destruction with a grin from the stage. Sullivan disposed of the competition with a pair of Freak Accidents and claimed the victory, noticing Dream's intriguing glare at the last second. What interest does The Dream have in Lars Sullivan?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">The Mighty are ready to make their mark on the NXT Tag Team division</div></p><p>

Shane Thorne, Nick Miller and Buddy Murphy are ready to bounce back from their loss at NXT TakeOver: New Orleans, and reveal that Thorne and Miller will enter the Dusty Rhodes Tag Team Classic on behalf of The Mighty. Their intentions were clear - to win the whole damn thing.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/OOwONqO.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/OOwONqO.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#f1a200;">Ricochet def. Raul Mendoza</div></p><p>

Many impressive superstars have passed through NXT, but perhaps none as talented as Ricochet. The high-flying athlete displayed incredible ability in his bout against Raul Mendoza to close this week's edition of the black and yellow brand, proving to the WWE Universe that he belongs in NXT. During this showcase of amazing ability, Zelina Vega made a surprise appearance, joining the commentary team to seemingly scout out The One and Only, for reasons unknown. However, Ricochet remained focused and defeated Mendoza with a 630° Senton. Ricochet has arrived on NXT, and he's already turning heads.</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/BaREczP.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/BaREczP.png"</a> style="max-width:100%;"></div></div></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · June 2, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/fETwpBo.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/fETwpBo.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat: repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;text-align:center;">WWE Greatest Royal Rumble: April 27, 2018 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia</div></p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Mr. McMahon gives a historic address to The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia</div></p><p>

This historic night wouldn't be complete without a word from the Chairman of the Board, Mr. McMahon. The boss issued a heartfelt address to the WWE Universe, most notably thanking those in attendance and The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for their hospitality and appreciation. Inviting everyone to enjoy the night ahead, Mr. McMahon promised that this would only be the beginning of bigger things to come for both the WWE and The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Let's get this show on the road.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/quCxi2N.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/quCxi2N.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Raw Tag Team Champions Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins def. The Bar</div></p><p>

Sheamus and Cesaro may claim to be "The Bar", but since WrestleMania, Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins have been raising it. The former Shield brothers reunited on The Grandest Stage of Them All to topple The Celtic Warrior and The Swiss Superman and capture the Raw Tag Team Championships. The two duos collided again in Saudi Arabia to kick off the Greatest Royal Rumble event and wasted no time getting down to business. Sheamus and Cesaro unleashed a surprise assault on their adversaries immediately following the ring bell to gain an advantage early on, and it wasn't until the former Champions had a slight miscommunication that Reigns and Rollins were able to re-enter the bout.</p><p> </p><p>

The Raw Tag Team Champions battled back into it and gained control of the match, with The Big Dog lining up Sheamus for a Spear, only to be cut off half way by a European Uppercut from Cesaro. The Architect quickly evened the score and sent The Swiss Superman to the canvas with a springboard knee and followed it up with The Stomp, hoping to secure the victory. Sheamus intervened and pulled Rollins away, delivering a Brogue Kick to the former World Champion, only to be grounded by Roman Reigns who finally hit the Spear to cement his place alongside Seth Rollins as the Raw Tag Team Champions.</p><p> </p><p>

The Shield prevailed over their rivals, sending Sheamus and Cesaro back to their new home on SmackDown LIVE with no more than a loss on their record. Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins basked in the reaction of the WWE Universe and enjoyed the moment with the Saudi Arabian crowd. The Greatest Royal Rumble was off to an explosive start.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/fUu9lTw.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/fUu9lTw.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander def. Neville & Kalisto</div></p><p>

Cedric Alexander's journey to the Cruiserweight Championship was hindered by several unfortunate events, but it all paid off when the high-flyer claimed the purple title at The Showcase of the Immortals, WrestleMania. But his reign was immediately delivered a blow when The King of the Cruiserweights, Neville made a surprise return to 205 Live to state his claim to the title now held by Alexander. As General Manager, Drake Maverick had already initiated a small tournament to determine Cedric's next contender, he was forced to award Neville his title rematch, as well as adding the eventual winner of the contendership battle, Kalisto.</p><p> </p><p>

The three cruiserweights clashed in front of the Saudi Arabian crowd, showcasing their incredible talent all in the name of the Cruiserweight Championship. Neville looked to reclaim his throne, but it proved to be more difficult than he had hoped as neither Cedric Alexander nor Kalisto were going to let him take the title. The King of the Cruiserweights came close to victory as he had Cedric Alexander locked in the devastating Ring of Saturn, but the luchadore broke the submission up with an unbelievable moonsault from the top rope. Kalisto tried to capitalise on the damage inflicted by Neville, attempting a Salida del Sol on the Cruiserweight Champion, but Alexander had the wherewithal to reverse the move and deliver his patented Lumbar Check to claim the victory, Neville unable to break the count quick enough.</p><p> </p><p>

The Cinderalla story isn't quite over yet, and Cedric Alexander leaves with the Cruiserweight Championship still intact. But for how long will he reign as 205 Live's top superstar? Neville will surely be looking to continue the journey to reclaim his throne, one way or another.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/2JhFVH8.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/2JhFVH8.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">United States Champion Drew McIntyre def. Bobby Roode</div></p><p>

Bobby Roode's position as a fighting champion proved to be his downfall as his last Open Challenge at WrestleMania lead to Drew McIntyre returning from injury to capture the United States Championship in New Orleans. The Sinister Scotsman arrived from NXT and ended the reign of The Glorious One, but Roode was intent on reclaiming the star-spangled title and cashed-in his rematch clause for the Greatest Royal Rumble. McIntyre accepted the challenge and this was it - Bobby Roode's last chance to become the United States Champion for a second time.</p><p> </p><p>

The United States Champion quickly made his thoughts on Bobby Roode clear by slapping the former Champion across the face. Roode responded in kind, taking down McIntyre in a fit of rage. The Sinister Scotsman escaped for a brief moment, but was followed out by his Glorious challenger and sent crashing into the steel steps. Bobby Roode shifted into another gear and looked to take back his title with force, but McIntyre's devious plans unfolded as he removed one of the turnbuckle pads and used it to coax Roode in and drive him face-first into the exposed steel. The United States Champion capitalised and dropped The Glorious One on his head with a Future Shock DDT before hooking the leg and scoring the pinfall.</p><p> </p><p>

Despite his best efforts, Bobby Roode fell short in his attempts to reclaim the United States Championship, leaving it in the hands of a Scot - and more importantly, on SmackDown LIVE. The Glorious One takes his career to the red brand as McIntyre remains Champion on Tuesday nights. Who will be the next superstar to challenge The SInister Scotsman for the coveted gold?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/1xRCmJK.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/1xRCmJK.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Intercontinental Champion Finn Bálor def. The Miz</div></p><p>

The Intercontinental Championship isn't just a title to The Miz, he truly believes it is his God-given right to hold the prestigious gold. But Finn Bálor begs to differ, and The Extraordinary Man was certainly not going to give it back without a fight. The A-Lister wasted no time demanding his rematch with the man he lost to at WrestleMania inside a Steel Cage, and promised to recapture his beloved gold and bring it back to where it belongs - around his waist. The Saudi Arabian crowd were undeniably on the side of the reigning Intercontinental Champion, but the former World Champion cared little for their chants and instead focused on reclaiming what he believes belongs to him.</p><p> </p><p>

As the pair locked up, Miz immediately turned on desperation mode, utilising every dirty tactic in the book to try and score a quick victory over his rival, only for Bálor to continue evading every single one. Miz put a halt to Bálor's evasive manoeuvres with a rake to the eyes, smugly smirking at the WWE Universe to a highly negative reaction. As The A-Lister continued to stay in control of the match, he wore down The Extraordinary Man and even applied the Figure-Four Leglock, gifted to him by WWE Hall of Famer, Ric Flair. Refusing to give in, Bálor fought on and reached the ropes, forcing the official to break the hold. Frustration took over for Miz and he dragged Bálor to his feet before delivering a Skull-Crushing Finale that many believed would be the end.</p><p> </p><p>

Bálor shocked the world and most importantly, The Miz by kicking out at 2.9, making his adversary wonder what it was that he had to do to keep Finn Bálor down. Then came the disrespect as The Miz measured Bálor for a series of Daniel Bryan-esque kicks that he has aptly renamed the "It" kicks. But as Miz attempted the final blow, Bálor ducked and rolled The A-Lister up, almost scoring a quick upset. However, when Miz regained his composure he regained control as well and hoisted Bálor onto the top rope looking to deliver a superplex. The Intercontinental Champion battled back and kicked Miz from the top rope, leaping into the air and driving his boots down with a Coup de Grace and making The Miz pay for his disrespect, following it up with a hook of the leg for the three count.</p><p> </p><p>

The Intercontinental Championship remains in the possession of Finn Bálor, and remains a staple of Monday nights, leaving The Miz with nothing but disappointment as he began arguing with the referee to restart the match, even shedding a tear. The Extraordinary Man celebrated with the WWE Universe, leaving The Miz to stomp his feet like a young child and embarrass himself in front of the entire world. Cheer up, Miz.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/zcj2aMG.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/zcj2aMG.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos vs. The New Day ends in a No Contest</div></p><p>

The paths of The Usos and The New Day are destined to cross forever, and their clash in Jeddah was just as exciting as their previous encounters, taking their respectful rivalry all the way around the world. However, as many times before, Kofi Kingston and Big E were unsuccessful in their attempts to recapture the SmackDown Tag Team Championships. But through no fault of their own. In fact, it wasn't even down to Jimmy and Jey, as some uninvited guests ruined the bout by wreaking havoc in Saudi Arabia.</p><p> </p><p>

Just three days after being upset in their number one contendership match against The New Day, Harper and Rowan arrived in Jeddah to brutalise their fellow tag teams and render this title match a no contest. The destructive Bludgeon Brothers laid waste to their opposition with the brute force that they have become known for, eliminating the two teams with boots, clothesline and a Bludgeoning to Kofi Kingston. But their onslaught continued as they came face-to-face with a lone Xavier Woods.</p><p> </p><p>

Dragging Woods to the outside, Harper and Rowan drove him through the announce table with The Reckoning, sending a clear message to the entire tag team division. With The Usos and The New Day now crumbled beneath the feet of The Bludgeons, will Harper and Rowan finally claim the SmackDown Tag Team Championships now that their message has been received loud and clear?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/tXRKQ89.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/tXRKQ89.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Universal Champion Shinsuke Nakamura def. Samoa Joe</div></p><p>

The Destroyer fully intended to live up to his mantle, destroying the Universal Champion and taking the title back to SmackDown LIVE, but even he could not put a stop to Shinsuke Nakamura's reign over Raw. Samoa Joe stalked his prey moments before the opening bell, leaving The King of Strong Styles to keep his eyes focused on his challenger at all times. When Joe launched his attack, he pulled no punches and unleashed his aggression on The Rockstar, grounding him to the canvas and taking an immediate advantage. The Universal Champion was resilient as he received his beating, and refused to give in.</p><p> </p><p>

A series of vicious kicks followed, including a stiff enziguiri to the skull of Nakamura. Despite all the hard shots, The Artist continued to stay in the fight and retaliated with some kicks of his own, gaining himself some breathing room to try and recuperate. The momentary break only lasted mere seconds as Joe once again went on the offensive, giving Nakamura no space to gather himself. But as Joe applied the Coquina Clutch in what appeared to be the final moments of Nakamura's title reign, The King of Strong Style reversed the hold into a pinfall, coming close to scraping by with a victory.</p><p> </p><p>

Joe escaped the pinfall and once again unleashed his rage on his rival, raising him to the top turnbuckle for the final blow - the Muscle Buster. The Destroyer ascended the middle rope to deliver an enhanced version of the devastating move, but Shinsuke Nakamura found one last bit of energy to fight out of the situation and kick the number one contender from the top, Joe crashing to the canvas. And with that, The Rockstar flew from the ropes and delivered his last ditch effort - a Kinshasa! His final effort paid off as Nakamura hooked the leg and retained his title in front of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.</p><p> </p><p>

The title reign continues as Shinsuke Nakamura pulls out the unthinkable after receiving a beating like no other, and now Samoa Joe returns to the blue brand without the Universal Championship he vowed to take back. The King of Strong Styles overcomes the odds once more, and looks towards his future as the leader of Monday Night Raw.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/AXKRESi.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/AXKRESi.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">The Brothers of Destruction def. Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn</div></p><p>

For the first time since his clash with Braun Strowman at WrestleMania, The Deadman rose once more. But this time, he didn't come alone. The Big Red Machine stepped out of the flames to join his brother in the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, taking on the unfortunate duo of Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn, thanks to Kurt Angle's impromptu decision on this past Monday night's Raw. Dig a pair of graves, because they're being filled tonight.</p><p> </p><p>

The two best friends didn't quite know how to approach the supernatural challenge that stood before them and Kevin Owens "kindly" elected Sami Zayn to kick things off with The Demon. The Underdog of the Underground was quickly introduced to the right hand of Kane and sent crashing across the ring from right to left and left to right before being taken down with a thunderous powerslam. The Big Red Machine allowed his adversary to crawl to the corner and tag in his ally, and Kevin Owens reluctantly entered the bout. The former Universal Champion tried his hand at taking down the Brother of Destruction, only to receive much of the same punishment.</p><p> </p><p>

Moments later, Kane tagged in his brother to the delight of the crowd in Jeddah. Enter The Deadman. Undertaker laid waste to The Prizefighter, delivering his signature offence, including Old School and a leg drop across the ring apron before grabbing Owens by the throat. Sami Zayn attempted to save his best friend, only to be caught by Kane and both men were driven into the canvas with a Double Chokeslam. This was followed by a Double Last Ride. And then the nail in the proverbial coffin - a tandem Tombstone Piledriver. The Brothers of Destruction welcomed Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn to their final resting place and were forced to do nothing but rest in peace.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/H3NBiJB.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/H3NBiJB.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">WWE Champion AJ Styles def. Daniel Bryan</div></p><p>

Nothing screams emotion like Daniel Bryan's return to the ring, and it's safe to say that the entire world has been invested in his journey to recapture the WWE Championship. And although he may not have been successful in Jeddah, he proved to everyone including AJ Styles that he is indeed still one of the greatest in-ring performers in history. The Phenomenal One was taken to the limit as he defended his gold against The Yes Man in front of the jam-packed King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, but Styles gave it right back to him in what was an epic clash that some would call a dream meeting at this historic event.</p><p> </p><p>

In this first-ever-in-WWE bout, Bryan gave everything he had to try and reclaim the prize that he once held and had been forced to relinquish in 2015 due to his injuries. The Phenomenal One was fully aware of Bryan's burning desire to return to the top and did everything in his power to retain his gold and remain "The Champ That Runs the Camp". A series of hard shots were traded before both men unloaded high-flying offence on the other in an attempt to put their opponent away. Hitting a stalemate, both men captivated the WWE Universe and left them in a state of awe.</p><p> </p><p>

Moments later, Daniel Bryan built his momentum and unleashed a flurry of kicks to the chest of AJ Styles before delivering one final roundhouse in a combination he likes to call the Yes Kicks. When that didn't secure him the victory, Bryan went high-risk to deliver a flying headbutt to the WWE Champion, but once again failed to capture the win. The Yes Man resorted to his trusty knee, measuring his Phenomenal opponent with chants of "Yes!" that filled the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, and as he bolted towards his adversary, Bryan was somehow quickly rolled into a school boy by The Phenomenal One and a shocking three count followed, bringing an abrupt end to this incredible back-and-forth battle of epic proportions.</p><p> </p><p>

While some fans were left disappointed by the result, AJ Styles was simply glad to have escaped with his WWE Championship intact, realising that he had just endured one hell of a fight from an incredible athlete. Shrugging his shoulders, AJ extended a hand to the defeated Bryan who somewhat reluctantly accepted the gesture, coming to terms with his loss. The words "next time" could be seen from the mouth of the challenger and a nod of acknowledgement from the WWE Champion perhaps confirmed that this isn't the last time we will see these two collide. Round two, anyone?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/v2tHphJ.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/v2tHphJ.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#199f3b;">Braun Strowman wins the 50-Man Greatest Royal Rumble Match</div></p><p>

"These hands" certainly helped Braun Strowman outlast 49 other superstars and reign victorious in the historic, first-ever 50-Man Greatest Royal Rumble Match. Superstars from Raw, SmackDown LIVE and NXT joined the bout to try and etch their name in the history books, as well as some familiar faces from the past wanting to play their part in this monumental event.</p><p> </p><p>

The Monster Among Men entered the bout at No. 35 and made an immediate impact, eliminating a total of five superstars made up of a wide range of superstars - Dash Wilder, Goldust, Mojo Rawley, Curtis Axel and Bo Dallas. His run of destruction didn't stop there, coming face-to-face equally big opponents such as Big Cass and the legendary WWE Hall of Famer, Mark Henry. Braun racked up a further five eliminations throughout his appearance - Aiden English, Dolph Ziggler, Rusev, Jinder Mahal and Primo Colon - bringing his total to ten. And the opposition quickly became very much aware of his gargantuan presence.</p><p> </p><p>

The historic bout featured several surprising returns, including the opening two entrants as entrants No. 1 and No. 2 were none other than The Game, Triple H and former 16-time World Champion, John Cena. Two of WWE's most iconic performers collided in the opening moments to immediately captivate the WWE Universe and invest them in this first-ever contest. At No. 21, the Big Show made his return for the first time since WrestleMania, and this was followed by entrant No. 32, Rey Mysterio. Later on in the bout, Chris Jericho joined the fray at No. 47 and eliminated Shelton Benjamin and Baron Corbin before being tossed over the ropes himself by Elias, who coincidentally had entered at No. 30, the entry number that would normally be the end of a traditional Rumble.</p><p> </p><p>

The Big Show laid waste to two superstars - Curt Hawkins and Sin Cara before himself being eliminated by The Deleters of Worlds, Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt. Rey Mysterio's shocking return came at the expense of Tommaso Ciampa and Jason Jordan, but lasted until the final six, being eliminated by the vicious Big Cass. The big man quickly got his comeuppance, however, when he became the 11th person eliminated by Braun Strowman. </p><p> </p><p>

NXT played a vital part in the historic event, with both SAnitY's Killian Dain and the NXT Champion, Andrade "Cien" Almas making surprise appearances, both having a good showing before being eliminated by Randy Orton and John Cena respectively. Of course, Cena's run from No. 2 was impressive, but he did eventually suffer elimination courtesy of The Sinister Songsmith, Elias. The man he began the match with, Triple H also met the arena floor, surprisingly at the hands of Braun Strowman, becoming his 12th victim - matching the record set by Roman Reigns in the 2014 Royal Rumble.</p><p> </p><p>

As the final moments came upon the bout, Braun Strowman stood alongside Bobby Lashley, Randy Orton, Jeff Hardy and Elias in the final five. The melee began and Randy Orton was dumped over the ropes by the soft-spoken Lashley, shortly followed by Jeff Hardy who's high-risk did not pay off, being dumped over the ropes by Lashley as well. The Monster Among Men's recent altercation on Raw with Lashley took center stage as the two titans battled it out, and taking advantage of the stalemate, Elias crept up behind and managed to tip the former United States Champion over the ropes and down to the floor, leaving him alone with the gargantuan Strowman.</p><p> </p><p>

It would take more than a catchy song to save The Treacherous Troubadour this time and he quickly found that out after being driven into the canvas not once, but <i>twice</i> by a Running Powerslam, allowing the big man to drop him over and out and claim his victory in Jeddah, becoming the winner of the first-ever 50-Man Greatest Royal Rumble Match. But not only had he made history, he was rewarded with the prestigious trophy and a custom Greatest Royal Rumble Championship to go with it, handed to him by Mr. McMahon and a high-ranking Saudi Arabian official. The Monster Among Men gave "these hands" to 49 other superstars and reigned supreme. What is to come for this beast of a man?</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/YxAoCue.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/YxAoCue.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

hurri · June 10, 2018

Good diary so far! What mod and pic packs are you using?

ElliotM · June 14, 2018

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;text-align:center;">WWE Raw: April 30th, 2018 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada</div>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Kurt Angle creates Triple Threat main event to determine the next Universal Championship challenger</div>

The Greatest Royal Rumble was a roaring success, and Kurt Angle had nothing but praise for The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for their hospitality. However, with the hsitoric event now in the bag, the focus became about Backlash this Sunday night. The Raw General manager confirmed that we did need to find a new challenger for the Universal Championship, and before he could even present any solution to that problem, he was interrupted by Jinder Mahal.

The Modern Day Maharajah put his case forward as a potential number one contender, claiming to be head and shoulders above the rest of the red brand's roster. His claims didn't sit well with the WWE Universe, but they sat even worse with The Viper, Randy Orton. The former World Champion hit the ring and confronted Mahal, stating his own claim to a shot at Raw's top prize. Having held multiple World Championships already, Angle admitted it was hard to argue with the credentials of The Apex Predator. But the interruptions continued, this time from the recently returned, Bobby Lashley.

Clearly having the support of the WWE Universe, Lashley arrived to a standing ovation and put his name into the mix for a shot at Shinsuke Nakamura. The Olympic Gold Medalist surveyed the scene and decided that the best way to settle this would be what they all do best - a match. Kurt Angle confirmed that the main event would consist of Jinder Mahal, Randy Orton and Bobby Lashley battling it out for a chance to compete at Backlash for the red strap. The fight is on. Oh, it's true!

<hr>

<hr>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Bobby Roode def. Baron Corbin to become number one contender for the Intercontinental Championship</div>

The Glorious One saved the Intercontinental Champion from an assault at the hands of Baron Corbin just one week ago, and now found himself in the ring with The Lone Wolf in an attempt to become the number one contender for the Intercontinental Championship. Bobby Roode was able to evade Corbin's hard-hitting offence and deliver a Glorious DDT for the victory, securing his spot at Backlash.

But The Lone Wolf had other ideas, attacking his adversary post-match and laying waste to the former United States Champion. Returning the favour, however, Finn Bálor emerged and came to the rescue of his brand new challenger, sending Corbin packing with a big Slingblade. The Extraordinary Man helped Roode to his feet in a show of respect, ahead of their title clash this Sunday.

<hr>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Natalya and Tyson kidd interrupt Becky Lynch's pre-Backlash interview</div>

Becky Lynch could not be more excited to receive her shot at the Raw Women's Championship at Backlash, telling Renee Young she will give it her all in an attempt to not only claim the gold, but end Asuka's incredible undefeated streak. The mood took a strange turn when Natalya arrived on the scene, flanked by her husband, Tyson Kidd. The Queen of Harts congratulated The Irish Lasskicker on her victory last week and wished her luck heading into Backlash. A true show of appreciation? Or a sly warning from the former Women's Champion?

<hr>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Natalya def. Naomi</div>

Just moments after her awkward confrontation with Becky Lynch, Natalya took to the ring to showcase her in-ring ability against another former Women's Champion, Naomi. The Queen of Harts had a little help from Tyson Kidd who grabbed the foot of Naomi, creating a distraction long enough for Natalya to wind up her signature Discus Clothesline for the victory.

The power couple of Natalya and Tyson Kidd definitely proved their loyalty to one another on this night at the expense of Naomi. What lies in the future of Natalya and her husband on Raw?

<hr>

<hr>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">The Revival def. "Woken" Matt Hardy & Bray Wyatt and American Alpha to become number one contenders for the Raw Tag Team Championships</div>

Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins are without challengers, and this was the match devised by General Manager, Kurt Angle to find their rightful contenders. It was a choice between American Alpha, Matt Hardy and Bray Wyatt, or The Revival. And it just so happened that tonight was Dash and Dawson's night. The former NXT Tag Team Champions were able to isolate The Woken One long enough to deliver a Shatter Machine and secure the victory, advancing to Backlash to take on the Raw Tag Team Champions.

Moments after the bell, Scott Dawson grabbed a microphone to declare he and Dash Wilder the <i>only</i> professional wrestling team in the WWE, and for that reason, they will finally become Raw Tag Team Champions at Backlash.

<hr>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Kurt Angle informs Dolph Ziggler of his role at Backlash</div>

It seems as though The Showoff isn't all that happy with being left off the Backlash card, and he took his frustrations to Kurt Angle's office. Dolph Ziggler demanded to know where his match was this Sunday, claiming to be The Greatest In-ring Performer in WWE History. The Raw General Manager claimed to understand Ziggler's anger and informed him that he has found him a match on the Kickoff Show. But when Ziggler asked what it was, he wasn't too fond of the answer. A match with SmackDown LIVE's Aleister Black. The former World Champion was furious, and refused to compete against the blue brand's superstar. But all Angle told him was "take it, or leave it".

<hr>

<hr>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Braun Strowman def. Mojo Rawley</div>

The Monster Among Men became the first-ever winner of the 50-Man Greatest Royal Rumble Match in Saudi Arabia on Friday, and the entire WWE Universe were on their feet for him as he celebrated his victory. Braun Strowman came straight back to the dance with a match against Mojo Rawley who requested a rematch with the big man last week. Unfortunately for Rawley, he met the exact same fate he met the first time around, and fell victim to a Running Powerslam. Strowman hooked the leg and picked up the victory, celebrating with his newly won custom title, courtesy of The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

However, Strowman's night was not over. The familiar sound of a guitar resonated around the arena before an unwelcome Elias emerged onto the stage. The man who came runner-up in Friday's historic event explained that the match should have belonged to him, and even went as far as to call The Monster Among Men a "one-hit wonder". In Elias' mind, he was the star of the Greatest Royal Rumble, and claimed that everyone knows what WWE really stands for. Strowman grabbed a microphone and bellowed "bring it on, puny music man" to the delight of the Canadian crowd, only for The Sinister Songsmith to smirk and walk away, refusing to square off with the big man tonight.

<hr>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins have a message for The Revival</div>

In an interview with Renee Young, the reigning Raw Tag Team Champions had some strong words for their newly crowned challengers, The Revival. Roman Reigns declared that they will always welcome a challenge, and are more than happy to defend their titles against Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder, but Seth Rollins reminds everyone that they have beaten The Revival before on multiple occasions, and promises Backlash will be no different. Believe that.

<hr>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Raw Women's Champion Asuka def. Alexa Bliss</div>

The Empress of Tomorrow continued her undefeated streak on Raw, all the while being observed by her number one contender, Becky Lynch on commentary. Asuka dismantled the former Women's Champion, Alexa Bliss and forced her into submission with the Asuka Lock, being sure to give a smile Lynch's way as she did.

The Raw Women's Champion raised her title with a grin, The Irish Lasskicker grinning right back at her from the stage. These two women will collide at Backlash, but will Asuka extend her streak, or will Becky Lynch do the unthinkable and leave as Raw Women's Champion?

<hr>

<hr>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">The Authors of Pain def. Breezango</div>

Nobody has been able to stop The Authors of Pain, and nothing changed here. Breezango made a huge mistake last week by handing "fashion tickets" to Akam and Rezar for their "outdated kevlar attire", only to be brutally assaulted backstage. In hopes of revenge, the flamboyant pair took on the former NXT Tag Team Champions but were unsuccessful in their attempts to defeat them. AOP finished off The Fashion Police with The Last Chapter, putting an end to their quest for justice.

Paul Ellering stood beside his monstrous pairing, looking down at their victims. Fandango and Tyler Breeze felt first-hand what The Authors of Pain are capable of, and whoever is next will be in for much of the same.

<hr>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Ronda Rousey delivers a physical message to Nia Jax and Stephanie McMahon ahead of their titanic clash at Backlash</div>

The epic clash between Ronda Rousey and Nia Jax is just five days away. The Irresistible Force and Stephanie McMahon made their way to the ring on Raw to address the upcoming battle and give a stern warning to The Rowdy One. With her arm still in a sling from WrestleMania, The Billionaire Baroness made it clear that Nia Jax would annihilate Ronda Rousey at Backlash and expose her for the pathetic woman she is. But of course, Rousey wasn't going to just sit there and take a dose of verbal abuse, and so she made her own way to the ring to confront her rivals.

Rousey spoke directly to Stephanie, almost looking right through Nia Jax and warned her that after she had done tearing the arm off her adversary, she would use it to give Stephanie McMahon a beating that is ten times worse than the one she gave her at WrestleMania. Stephanie surprisingly stands face-to-face with her nemesis and then shocks the world by slapping Rousey across the face! The former UFC competitor immediately retaliated with a right hand, but it was caught by Jax mid-swing. Things became very tense and suddenly, the atmosphere shifted.

Ronda Rousey delivered a stiff headbutt to Nia Jax, sending her stumbling back into the ropes. Stephanie McMahon quickly fled ringside with a scream, but Jax was unable to escape her wrath and Rousey applied her signature armbar, wrenching away just days before their bout at Backlash. McMahon screeched for security and a sea of black shirts arrived to pull The Rowdy One off Jax, allowing her to escape. The message had been sent, but not the one Stephanie McMahon had hoped.

<hr>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Tommaso Ciampa def. Tye Dillinger</div>

It certainly hasn't been a Perfect 10 career move for Tye Dillinger since arriving on Raw as part of the Superstar Shakeup, and Tommaso Ciampa made sure it remained that way. The Psycho Killer laid waste to Dillinger with a Project Ciampa and secured yet another victory.

With another win under his belt, is Ciampa slowly beginning to forget about Johnny Gargano, or is something still ticking at the back of his mind? One thing's for sure, nobody wants to know what goes on in that head of his.

<hr>

<hr>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#cb1516;">Bobby Lashley def. Randy Orton & Jinder Mahal to become number one contender for the Universal Championship</div>

Three of Raw's biggest stars threw their name into the mix for the next shot at the Universal Championship, and Kurt Angle rightly decided that the best way to decide was to have a match. A huge Triple Threat match for the right to face Shinsuke Nakamura at Backlash. The opening bell brought us near falls, high-risk moves and RKOs, but the climax of the bout came when Sunil Singh made an attempt to intervene in favour of his mentor, Jinder Mahal. Singh assaulted The Viper from behind, only to ear an RKO for his troubles. The distraction paid off, however, as Mahal used the opportunity to deliver The Khallas to his former rival. But as he looked to claim his victory and advance to Backlash, Bobby Lashley returned to the scene with a gut-splitting Spear, and followed it up with a Dominator for good measure to put The Modern Day Maharajah away and find himself named the number one contender for the Universal Championship.

The Dominator did it, and Bobby Lashley has the chance to follow up on his "unfinished business" he claims to have in a match for the Universal Championship. And speaking of which, the man himself made an appearance in epic fashion, performing his adrenaline-filled entrance to the delight of the WWE Universe. The King of Strong Style confronted his new challenger with a smile, raising his Universal Championship into the air. Bobby Lashley looked up to the title and nodded his head with a smile, signalling that this was going to be a battle we don't want to miss.

<hr>

ElliotM · June 16, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/N2JAJTz.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/N2JAJTz.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;text-align:center;">WWE SmackDown LIVE: May 1, 2018 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada</div></p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Daniel Bryan's rematch request becomes a four-way altercation</div></p><p>

Daniel Bryan's emotional comeback to the ring reached its highest point as he challenged AJ Styles for the WWE Championship at the Greatest Royal Rumble event. But unfortunately, his attempt to reclaim the title he once held was unsuccessful and on the night in Saudi Arabia, AJ Styles was the better man. The Yes Man addressed Friday's bout and acknowledged that The Phenomenal One did indeed out-perform him and he respectfully congratulates Styles on his title defence. But he wasn't about to give up hope that easily, and wasted no time requesting that the WWE Champion grace him with a rematch.</p><p> </p><p>

The Phenomenal One emerged to answer the challenge and after explaining how much respect he had for everything Daniel Bryan had been through and accomplished, he accepted, confirming that the two would collide again for the title this Sunday at Backlash. However, their moment was ruined by the arrival of a rather angry-looking Miz. Expressing his disgust at the thought of another Style/Bryan match and demanded to be included in the WWE Championship picture. The A-Lister claimed to deserve the shot after being unfairly uprooted from Raw during the Superstar Shakeup, but he wasn't the only one with a claim to the prestigious prize.</p><p> </p><p>

The trio were joined by Samoa Joe, fresh off his unsuccessful challenge for the Universal Championship, demanding to be given a shot at the WWE Championship. The Destroyer claimed to be the only superstar with a legitimate claim to the WWE Championship, and the only legitimate fighter in the WWE capable of holding the title with dignity. Of course, the others disagreed, but their debate was crashed by SmackDown LIVE General Manager, Edge.</p><p> </p><p>

The Rated R GM appeared on the titantron to express his understanding for The Miz and Samoa Joe's desires, and explained that SmackDown LIVE is indeed The Land of Opportunity, and so he granted both Miz and Joe the opportunity to challenge for the WWE Championship - if they could defeat AJ Styles and Daniel Bryan in the main event. With a tag team clash now scheduled, the question was clear - will AJ Styles be defending his title against one man, or four?</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/MQosG2r.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/MQosG2r.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">SmackDown Women's Champion Carmella def. Mickie James</div></p><p>

Just five days away from defending her SmackDown Women's Championship against Charlotte Flair at Backlash, The Princess of Staten Island took on Mickie James to prove that she was capable of taking down a former Women's Champion in a fair fight. And despite a bit of questionable offence throughout the match, Carmella was able to capitalise on a missed Mick Kick and deliver her own Superkick to ground the former Women's Champion and pick up the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

Moments after her victory, she is joined by Absolution! The trio assault Mickie James as Carmella watches on with a smile, but it isn't long before the cavalry arrive in the form of Bayley, Kairi Sane and Charlotte Flair. They fend off Absolution and save Mickie from further harm, although Carmella tried to get one-up on her challenger by attacking her from behind, only to receive a big boot from the former Champion, sending Carmella crashing through the ropes to the arena floor. The fight is on, and The Queen is ready to reclaim her throne.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Luke Gallows def. Sheamus</div></p><p>

Calling The Bar "nerds" last week hasn't really sat well with Sheamus and Cesaro who took to Twitter to express their rage towards Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson. The Celtic Warrior challenged the big man to a one-on-one encounter for a measure of revenge, but when Sheamus became distracted by Karl Anderson and Cesaro arguing on the outside, The Suntan Biker Man dropped the former World Champion with a Flapjack for the victory.</p><p> </p><p>

The Good Brothers left ringside with a pair of smiles as The Bar looked on in anger. It's 1-0 to The Good Brothers, and as far as they're concerned, Sheamus and Cesaro are very much still "nerds".</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/eKL9aBk.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/eKL9aBk.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Jeff Hardy vs. Rusev ends in a no contest leaving the United States Championship without a contender</div></p><p>

The ongoing conflict between Jeff Hardy and Rusev has been back and forth, and it lead to the two men receiving the opportunity to challenge for the United States Championship at Backlash. With the reigning Champion, Drew McIntyre at ringside, both Hardy and Rusev looked to make an impact and secure their place as number one contender. The Bulgarian Brute used his power to ground The Charasmatic Enigma, but it was Hardy who battled back and looked to finish off Rusev with a Swanton Bomb. But before he could climb to the top he was blindsided by The Sinister Scot who drilled him with the United States Championship belt, giving the official no alternative but to call for the bell.</p><p> </p><p>

Rather than stop there, McIntyre turned his attention to Rusev who also suffered a stiff blow to the head with the star-spangled title, McIntyre showing his dominance over his potential contenders. The Celtic Colossus raised the United States Championship above his head and declared himself "The Chosen One" before the WWE Universe. What does this mean for the US title bout at Backlash?</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">No Way Jose parties with The New Day as Shelton Benjamin looks on in disgust</div></p><p>

There's no party like a New Day party, and No Way Jose was introduced to that backstage, enjoying fun, dancing and pancakes with the colourful trio. Big E expressed his love for how much fun No Way is and the four seemed to ge ton really well. But Shelton Benjamin entered the scene with a look of disgust, declaring that he is embarrassed to be a part of SmackDown LIVE when things like this are a part of the show. The Gold Standard said he should have been the one to be moved to Raw in the Superstar Shakeup, not Chad Gable. He took his leave and after a few moments of silence, the party continued as if nothing had happened. Lighten up, Shelton!</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/MQosG2r.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/MQosG2r.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">The Bludgeon Brothers def. The Ascension</div></p><p>

It's just another day at the office for The Bludgeon Brothers as they dismantle yet another team this week in The Ascension. Konnor and Viktor tried their hand at taking down the destructive pair, only to suffer the same fate as all those times before - a devastating loss. Harper and Rowan disposed of Konnor on the outside with a sickening double big boot, and then returned to the ring to drive Viktor into the canvas with The Reckoning, claiming yet another victory.</p><p> </p><p>

But the tables may have turned on The Bludgeons as The Usos exploded into the arena wielding steel chairs and entered the ring swinging for the hills. Connecting with a few sharp shots, they sent Harper and Rowan retreating up the ramp to the delight of the WWE Universe and then took to the microphone to tell everyone how sick they were of being attacked week in, week out. Jimmy Uso reveals that a tag team match between The Usos and The Bludgeon Brothers has been sanctioned for Backlash and the SmackDown Tag Team Championships will be on the line, and The Usos vow to finally introduce The Bludgeons to The Uso Penitentiary.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Aleister Black prepares to make Dolph Ziggler face his demons</div></p><p>

As per the announcement of Raw General Manager, Kurt Angle one night prior, Dolph Ziggler will collide with SmackDown LIVE's Aleister Black on the Backlash Kickoff show. The Dutch Destroyer appeared in a darkened room filled with candles to give a spine-chilling warning to The Showoff, promising to force him to face his demons this Sunday. Dolph Ziggler will be shown the true meaning of Evil at Backlash!</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/djtjeVi.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/djtjeVi.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">Big Cass def. Zack Ryder</div></p><p>

Since arriving on SmackDown LIVE courtesy of the Superstar Shakeup, Big Cass has been unstoppable, and his reign of terror continued when he defeated Zack Ryder in a similar fashion to his previous adversaries. Despite the former Intercontinental Champion's best efforts, he too fell victim to a Big Boot from the big man and was handed a loss.</p><p> </p><p>

Another week, another win. Big Cass has made an impact on SmackDown LIVE, and it's uncertain when it will end, if ever.</p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:18px Roboto;font-weight:bold;">Drew McIntyre suffers the repercussions for his actions</div></p><p>

When something seems like a good idea at the time, be sure to think about the repercussions. The United States Champion, Drew McIntyre found that out the hard way when he was called to the office of SmackDown LIVE General Manager, Edge. While The Rated R GM understood the actions of The Sinister Scot, he explained that he knows first hand that there's always a reaction to an action, and that is why his attack on Jeff Hardy and Rusev did not leave him without a number one contender, as now he will take on BOTH men at Backlash in a Triple Threat match. Of course, McIntyre was furious with the decision and tried to argue it, but Edge simply told him that he had made his bed, and now it was time to lay in it.</p><p> </p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/jgSEVBh.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/jgSEVBh.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#103ab6;">The Miz & Samoa Joe def. WWE Champion AJ Styles & Daniel Bryan to be added to the WWE Championship Match at Backlash</div></p><p>

The opportunity to compete for the WWE Championship was at stake in this main event and the focus and determination of the superstars involved proved that. Back-and-forth they went with both The Miz and Samoa Joe giving their all to earn their right to compete at Backlash. When The Destroyer took Daniel Bryan to the outside to brawl, AJ Styles attempted a Phenomenal Forearm on The A-Lister, only to miss his target and leave himself open to a Skull-Crushing Finale that put the WWE Champion down for long enough for Miz to secure the victory and earn himself and Samoa Joe a place in this Sunday's WWE Championship bout!</p><p> </p><p>

All of a sudden, AJ Styles title reign became even more endangered than before, and Daniel Bryan's chances of becoming WWE Champion slimmed. But as The Miz celebrated his victory, he was grabbed from behind by his tag team partner, Samoa Joe with a Coquina Clutch! The Destroyer dragged his former ally to the canvas and choked him out, reinforcing the unspoken rule that it is every man for himself. The Yes Man then took to the skies and delivered a thunderous diving headbutt to Joe's skull, forcing him to release the hold and roll across the canvas. And then Daniel Bryan was introduced to the Phenomenal Forearm of AJ Styles as he flew through the air and drove Bryan down to the mat. The Phenomenal One stood tall over his three Backlash challengers with his WWE Championship in hand. And Styles must be wondering if he can defy the odds and walk out with the title still intact.</div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/TW0LMou.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/TW0LMou.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

ElliotM · June 16, 2018

<p><div style="width: 750px; margin: auto; color: #121212; background-color: #ffffff;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/VSlCBK5.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/VSlCBK5.png"></a></p><p>

<div style="width:650px;padding:15px 50px 15px 50px;font: 15px Roboto Slab;background-image:url(<a href="https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/T5nq53X.png</a>);background-repeat:repeat-y;text-align:justify;"><div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;text-align:center;">WWE Backlash: May 6, 2018 in Newark, New Jersey</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/3XNQGf9.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/3XNQGf9.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">WWE Champion AJ Styles vs. Daniel Bryan vs. The Miz vs. Samoa Joe</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/uBv4M6A.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/uBv4M6A.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">Universal Champion Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Bobby Lashley</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/RM5djoD.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/RM5djoD.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">Ronda Rousey vs. Nia Jax</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/JmNEyYk.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/JmNEyYk.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">Intercontinental Champion Finn Bálor vs. Bobby Roode</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/IeC8EBs.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/IeC8EBs.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">United States Champion Drew McIntyre vs. Jeff Hardy vs. Rusev</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/0G8cEQS.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/0G8cEQS.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">Raw Women's Champion Asuka vs. Becky Lynch</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/RQq8WIp.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/RQq8WIp.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">SmackDown Women's Champion Carmella vs. Charlotte Flair</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/JqTc4Jn.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/JqTc4Jn.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">Raw Tag Team Champions Roman Reigns & Seth Rollins vs. The Revival</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/qouN3Hp.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/qouN3Hp.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">SmackDown Tag Team Champions The Usos vs. The Bludgeon Brothers</div></p><p>

<img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/2Wnbxbn.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/2Wnbxbn.png"></a></p><p> </p><p>

<div style="font:24px Roboto;font-weight:bold;color:#08399a;">Dolph Ziggler vs. Aleister Black (Kickoff Match)</div></div></p><p>

<div style="width:800px;margin-bottom:-3px;"><img src="<a href="https://i.imgur.com/qRSBf6O.png" rel="external nofollow">https://i.imgur.com/qRSBf6O.png"></div></div></a></p><p> </p><p>

Micah Cage · September 6, 2018

I miss reading this one! Whatever happened to it?

Hollywood · September 6, 2018

<blockquote data-ipsquote="" class="ipsQuote" data-ipsquote-username="Micah Cage" data-cite="Micah Cage" data-ipsquote-contentapp="forums" data-ipsquote-contenttype="forums" data-ipsquote-contentid="44823" data-ipsquote-contentclass="forums_Topic"><div>I miss reading this one! Whatever happened to it?</div></blockquote><p> </p><p> Stay tuned. <img alt=";)" data-src="//content.invisioncic.com/g322608/emoticons/wink.png.686f06e511ee1fbf6bdc7d82f6831e53.png" src="<___base_url___>/applications/core/interface/js/spacer.png" /></p>

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