[WWE intro music plays]
-[glass shatters] -[The Rock] If ya smell…
[bell tolls]
-♪ The King of Kings ♪ -♪ You can't see me ♪
[crowd cheering]
[music fades]
Becky informed me Ronda Rousey has chosen Becky Lynch
as her opponent for the main event at WrestleMania.
I'm not surprised that Ronda chose Becky.
You want to know why? Because I have been on top since 2015.
I have been here,
becoming the most dominant champion in the WWE.
What has Ronda been doing? Oh, she had a baby.
I would be worried for Ronda if she didn't choose Becky,
because mom vs. mom is an easier route.
["Bad Reputation" playing]
[Cole] "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey on SmackDown.
[Ronda] Becky told Sonya told Charlotte. She said, she said.
Guys, last time I checked,
I won the Royal Rumble and I get to pick who I main event WrestleMania with.
I'll see you at WrestleMania, bitch.
This title is my baby,
and she's prettier than yours.
Hang on. Hang on.
I tell you what to do, not the other way around, so back off!
[Cole] Now Sonya Deville gets involved.
Could that be the fate of Charlotte Flair?
Ronda made her choice.
Ronda and Charlotte
for the SmackDown Women's Title at WrestleMania.
[dramatic music fades]
[crowd cheers]
[Cole] For the mass Elimination Chamber only a week from tomorrow,
we welcome you to The Big Easy.
We're a stone's throw from Bourbon Street with Friday Night SmackDown on Fox.
We are live tonight and sponsored by Progressive.
A triple threat of protection with home, auto and more.
Hello again, everybody, at ringside,
I'm Michael Cole, my normal partner, Pat McAfee's at the Super Bowl.
Filling in, my old buddy from Monday Night Raw, Corey Graves.
Did you just call McAfee normal?
There is absolutely nothing about that dude,
but I am excited to be back here on a huge Friday Night SmackDown.
I've been practicing this. Watch.
[announcer] Please welcome WWE official, Sonya Deville!
[crowd boos]
Hello and welcome to Friday Night SmackDown.
We have an incredible show here tonight in New Orleans.
But first…
[sighs] I have to acknowledge the unprovoked, unprofessional,
egregious attack on me last week by Ronda Rousey.
[Graves] Sonya Deville's kind of holding back.
People like Ronda Rousey and Naomi think that they can do whatever they want
and there'll be no consequences
because they have no respect or regard for authority.
But I'm here tonight…
to say I don't care if you're Ronda Rousey,
I don't care if you're Naomi, or any other Superstar on the roster.
There will be consequences for your actions.
[crowd boos]
There has to be.
With that being said, earlier today,
I petitioned to upper management
that Ronda Rousey be fined $100,000…
-[crowd boos] -Gosh.
And…
effective immediately, she be suspended indefinitely.
[crowd screams and boos]
Sonya, hold on. Sonya.
[Adam] Sonya, hold on just a second.
Excuse me?
I realize you're not checking your email as you're in the ring,
but upper management has responded to your petition.
And this email comes from the chairman of the board himself,
Mr. McMahon.
[crowd roars]
And it reads…
"Sonya, it has come to my attention
that you've been taking matters into your own hands
and abusing your power."
"If there is one thing I can't stand,
it is a WWE official who abuses their power."
"So now, I will exercise some of mine."
"Your petition to fine
and suspend Ronda Rousey is declined."
-[crowd cheers] -[Adam] There's more.
"As for your inappropriate treatment of Naomi,
you must face the consequences of your actions."
"You are not to lay a hand on Naomi in any way tonight,
especially as it pertains
to the championship match with Charlotte Flair."
And it concludes…
"If you disobey me…
your job will be in serious jeopardy."
♪ Bring it to the floor ♪
[Cole] Certainly not a great start to the night for Sonya Deville.
Now, Sonya completely embarrassed,
but here comes the aforementioned Naomi
who has been harassed for months by Sonya Deville.
And tonight, Naomi finally gets an opportunity
at the SmackDown Women's Championship
against Charlotte Flair right here live on SmackDown.
I don't think I'm out of line in saying
that Charlotte Flair's championship is in major jeopardy tonight
much like Sonya Deville's job if she interferes.
[theme music fades]
What's the matter, Sonya?
You never got ripped a new one by your boss before?
You know, the funny thing is,
Mr. McMahon said you can't lay a hand on me…
but he never said I can't lay a hand on you.
[Cole] Whoa!
-You got real confused. -My arm is hurt! Back off!
Back off.
Security, get her out of here!
That had to feel good for Naomi who has an opportunity
at the SmackDown Women's Championship later tonight.
Hurts like a mother, ain't it?
[Cole] What a humiliating start to the evening for Sonya Deville
as if the injured arm wasn't bad enough.
-[Graves] This. Boom! -[Cole] Hurts exponentially worse.
A shot directly to your pride, to your ego.
And you have to wonder what the champion, Charlotte Flair, is thinking.
Sonya Deville cannot lay a hand on Naomi in any way tonight
or her job is in serious jeopardy,
which means Naomi truly goes one-on-one with the champ.
But we learned from history
that when Charlotte Flair is in a championship match,
a championship situation,
no one shines brighter than The Opportunity herself.
I can't wait.
Ladies and gentlemen, let's show you what's on the menu tonight
delivered by Papa John's here on Friday Night SmackDown.
New York's style pizza is here. Order one today.
[Graves] As we just found out by order of the chairman,
Sonya Deville cannot lay a hand on Naomi
as Naomi faces off against "The Opportunity"
Charlotte Flair in a SmackDown Women's Championship match tonight.
[Cole] And The Master Strategist has finally obtained
his long awaited Intercontinental Championship match next week.
Sami Zayn sits down with his opponent, Shinsuke Nakamura,
and his headbanging herald, Rick Boogs,
on Sami's own personal talk show In-Zayn later on tonight.
And ahead of their epic Universal Championship showdown
at the Elimination Chamber,
WWE Hall of Famer and Roman Reigns' challenger, Goldberg,
is back on SmackDown tonight.
I want to take you back to last week on Friday Night SmackDown,
it was an incredible tag match with Kofi and Big E
versus Los Lotharios,
but it all started when Angel and Humberto were in the middle of a photoshoot.
[indistinct chatter]
And after that photobomb, Corey, the two teams would head to the ring.
[Graves] Very impressive outing by Los Lotharios.
Angel and Humberto bringing the fight to Kofi and Big E.
Kofi was able to escape the Wind Clipper in the moment,
which opened the door for Big E and Kofi to do what they do best.
Big time tandem offense, and a win for E and Kingston.
[Cole] It was an incredible matchup
between Big E, Kofi Kingston and Los Lotharios.
♪ It's a new day, yes it is! ♪
-[upbeat theme music plays] -[crowd cheers]
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest is a tag team match scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, the team of Big E and Kofi Kingston!
Of course their buddy King Woods is still recuperating from an injury.
Expect him to be back soon.
Hey, Corey, what a match last week, and we expect it to live up
to its expectations again here tonight.
Big E and Kofi Kingston will take on the red hot tag team of Los Lotharios.
[Graves] Humberto and Angel, Los Lotharios, God's gift to women,
versus two-thirds of the greatest trio in WWE history, next.
[Cole] It happens only one time a year.
That structure, 16 feet high,
weighing 20,000 pounds, with two miles of steel
will surround the ring.
[Graves] Two Superstars begin the match
while the other four are locked in pods
to be released at regularly scheduled intervals.
Quite simply, the last Superstar standing is your winner.
[Cole] Elimination Chamber, a week from tomorrow, live on Peacock.
Big E, Kofi Kingston set for action.
Ladies and gentlemen,
please welcome two of the most handsome competitors
you will ever see in WWE,
Angel and Humberto, Los Lotharios.
Thank you, Kayla, I really appreciate that.
Thank you for telling all the WWE universe what they already know.
We are not only the most sensual Latin lovers ever…
But we are fierce competitors.
Last week we almost defeat Kofi Kingston and Big E.
Tonight, there won't be an almost.
Because we are Lethal Lovers.
[upbeat theme music plays]
Could you imagine being that good-looking, Cole, to where it's lethal?
[announcer] And their opponents, Angel and Humberto,
"The Lethal Lovers" Los Lotharios!
[Cole] I can honestly say I've never had that problem.
[Graves] Listen, New Orleans has never been a great city for divorce rate,
but it just went through the roof when these two made their entrance.
[Cole] Big E and Kofi Kingston do not look impressed.
[Graves] Because they're haters.
[announcer] And now, the Los Lotharios kiss cam.
[Graves] This is going to be amazing.
I've heard about this, Cole. We get to see it?
Don't know how you heard about it, this is the first time--
I didn't know it was gonna happen.
[Graves] I've got better sources than you.
-Is that why you're here tonight? -That's right.
[Graves] I came here just for the kiss cam.
Oh my goodness.
Wow.
The fact that that young lady was able to maintain her balance
is nothing short of miraculous.
Women around the world just passed out in envy.
[Cole] Los Lotharios is indeed lethal.
Let's see how lethal they are in in-ring action.
Rematch from last week here tonight against Big E and Kofi Kingston.
[Graves] Let's not kid ourselves, Los Lotharios gave Big E--
You know what? Let's not-- We can just put that on the full screen.
Why do we even need to have a match?
Let's just check out Los Lotharios and the kiss cam
and that beautiful lucky young woman.
Let's just stay here for two hours.
-[bell rings] -And stare at that?
Sure, why not?
[Cole] Nonetheless, Big E will start things off against Angel.
[crowd chanting]
Big E a former WWE Champion.
[Graves] You know, Cole, I was privy to witness
all of Big E's WWE Championship reign on Monday Night Raw,
but I have to be honest with you.
It's as though there's a certain level of comfort that E shows
when he's in the ring competing alongside Kofi Kingston.
[Cole] Well, no doubt, long-time friends, The New Day,
11-time Tag Team Champions overall.
You mentioned King Woods, of course, a part of that, he's out with injury.
Big E going to start things off with a side headlock on Angel.
Now found a grip around the skull of Angel.
The waist lock by Angel on the 285-pound Big E.
E does not seem to be bothered in the least
as he powers his way out of the grip.
Whoa!
Cover now, cover, and a kick-out.
Big E and Kofi Kingston.
Look at the smile on Kofi's face.
So great to be competing here with Big E.
Kofi a former WWE Champion in his own right.
Now double-team coming from Big E and Kofi.
Cover now by Kingston.
The Usos, of course, the current Tag Team Champions on SmackDown.
They face The Viking Raiders for the titles a week from tomorrow
at the Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event.
New Day rocks!
[Cole] Look at the aggression from Angel.
You have to think that the winner of this matchup, Corey,
could find themself in line
for a title opportunity perhaps somewhere down the road.
[Graves] Oh! Gnarly crossfaces by Angel.
Rearranging the features on Kofi's face.
Tag is made to Humberto.
[Cole] Humberto has so much talent…
as Humberto continues to hammer away on Kofi Kingston.
-Oh, Kingston now. -Beautiful takedown by Kingston.
[Cole] Dragging Humberto out of the ring.
Oh, and that clubbing blow again.
-Tag made. -Uh-oh.
Big E has got Humberto in trouble,
and Big E with a splash!
[Graves] Splashing down across the torso of Humberto.
Here comes Angel to join the party.
[Cole] Up over the top rope goes Angel.
Tag made, Kofi's legal.
[crowd cheers]
-Look out. -It could be time for Kofi to fly!
Big E, Kofi Kingston rolling here on SmackDown.
[Cole] But this is Friday Night SmackDown on Fox.
Incredible tag team matchup, by the way.
Big E and Kofi Kingston against "The Lethal Lovers" Los Lotharios.
Angel and Humberto in control.
This is what happened during the commercial break.
You want to catch a glimpse at the athleticism
as Humberto soars through the sky.
Took Big E's face off with a triangle kick,
and now Angel in complete control.
We're on the road to WrestleMania.
The last stop, a Premium Live Event before WrestleMania is next Saturday.
Live, Elimination Chamber, Jeddah Dome in Saudi Arabia.
-Oh! -Two Elimination Chamber matchups.
[Graves] Universal Championship on the line.
Raw Women's Title on the line.
It is going to be one for the ages, and here we go!
[Cole] And, Corey, what is it about Los Lotharios that impresses you?
[Graves] Well, once you get past, if you are able to,
their devilishly debonair good looks,
they are incredible athletes in the ring.
Angel and Humberto are world-traveled lucha libre stars,
and they're bringing their craft here to WWE to be enjoyed by everyone.
[Cole] Ran into a big belly-to-belly by Big E,
and an opportunity now, perhaps, for Big E to either cover or tag.
I don't think Big E knows where he is, though.
[Graves] Great observation.
Angel desperately needs to make a tag as well.
Kofi anxious to join the fray.
[Cole] Angel dragging himself to the corner.
He makes the tag to Humberto, Kofi Kingston legal as well,
and here comes Kofi off the top rope.
And Kofi Kingston turning it up a notch.
[Graves] This is what The Lethal Lovers wanted to avoid.
What a dropkick by Kingston right on the jaw.
[Cole] And the WWE fans in New Orleans are loving it.
-Redirection. -Not so fast.
[Graves] Nasty landing on the outside for Angel.
[Cole] And now a Boom Drop by Kingston.
And Kofi could be closing in on a victory.
Notice Humberto instinctively looking for a tag,
but Angel not a factor in this matchup at this particular juncture.
[Cole] Kofi missed with Trouble in Paradise.
Humberto ducking underneath.
Now roll-up, shoulders down. Is it enough?
And a kick-out at two.
Almost caught Kingston.
Now Kofi!
-Wow. What impact. -Right on the temple.
Tag, Big E's legal.
[Graves] We have a little déjà vu in The Big Easy.
-Double-team coming. -Wait a second.
Kofi Kingston though avoiding Angel, driving Angel into the barricade.
Meanwhile, Humberto buries Big E in the corner.
[Graves] Humberto raining down right hands to the top of E's skull,
and a kick from Kofi from the outside!
[Cole] Kofi's legal. Kofi made the tag as he came up on the apron.
Kofi now up to the top rope.
Big E with Humberto high!
What a move by Kingston.
Cover, hook of the leg,
-and it's Angel saving the matchup! -Wow!
[Graves] Just in time.
Great awareness by Angel from the outside as we look back at the impact.
Both feet from Kofi Kingston stomping.
[Cole] Meanwhile, a Backstabber…
to Big E, driving Big E out of the ring.
And now, Angel and Humberto may have Kofi where they want him.
Angel making the climb.
-And taking out Big E. -Wow!
-Now Humberto from the top rope. -Humberto now.
And Humberto with a moonsault to Kingston.
Cover. Is it enough to put him away?
Hook of the leg.
Oh, and a kick-out again by Kofi.
[Graves] The look of disbelief on the handsome mug of Humberto.
[Cole] I can't believe it.
I thought Los Lotharios had Kofi Kingston done.
[Graves] One of the most picture-perfect moonsaults I've ever seen performed,
but now tandem offense incoming.
Angel from the top, Humberto with Kingston on his shoulders.
[Cole] Kofi still trying to fight out of this predicament,
able to land on his feet, driving Humberto into the corner.
Now, Kofi with a Trouble in Paradise!
[Graves] Humberto to the outside.
[Cole] Kingston on the second rope.
Oh, what a move, but a roll-through.
-A cover now, stacking him up. -One, two, three!
-Got him! What a win for Los Lotharios! -[bell rings]
[announcer] Here are your winners, "The Lethal Lovers" Los Lotharios!
[Cole] That was a massive victory.
[Graves] You're absolutely right.
"The Lethal Lovers" Los Lotharios, Angel and Humberto,
picking up a colossal win here in the SmackDown tag team division.
Just imagine that young lady in the front row who was on the kiss cam,
how her night just went from great to miraculous.
[crowd boos]
An incredible victory by "The Lethal Lovers" Los Lotharios,
but now please welcome my guests,
they are the challengers for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships
a week from tomorrow at the Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event,
The Viking Raiders.
[crowd cheers]
Erik, after your tough loss to Jimmy Uso last week,
how will you rebuild momentum heading into your championship match?
Look, at Elimination Chamber--
[grunting]
[Cole] The Usos.
Jimmy and Jey Uso with an ambush on The Viking Raiders.
Yeah, we're going to see you at Elimination Chamber now, Uce.
That's right, dawg. This will look nice on the wall.
-Let me look. -Let's get it.
[laughs] Yeah.
[indistinct chatter]
[crowd roars]
And now the Universal Champion, Roman Reigns.
I'm gonna head to the back for an exclusive interview with The Tribal Chief.
Roman Reigns is live next on SmackDown.
[rock music playing]
[up-tempo music playing]
[Graves] Friday Night SmackDown is live from The Big Easy, New Orleans.
Home of Bourbon Street where the party truly never stops
as Michael Cole prepares to sit down with our Universal Champion, Roman Reigns.
And Elimination Chamber looming a week from tomorrow,
let's take a look at our Progressive Match Flo.
[announcer] Match Flo is sponsored by Progressive,
a triple threat of protection with home, auto, and more.
[Heyman] Ladies and gentlemen, I acknowledge
that I made the biggest mistake of my entire career.
I'm protecting you from Brock Lesnar.
And I got fired and I got Superman punched,
I deserved every bit of it.
Roman Reigns came into the ring at the Royal Rumble
and he offered me the hand of forgiveness,
and he smashed Brock Lesnar in the face with it.
And at WrestleMania,
Brock Lesnar will acknowledge the champion,
Roman Reigns.
[epic music plays]
Holy hell!
[Cole] The Hall of Famer is here!
Goldberg marching to the ring.
[crowd chants] Goldberg!
Roman Reigns…
I acknowledge you…
as my next victim.
[crowd cheers]
You, me, Elimination Chamber.
You're next.
[crowd roars]
Roman, first and foremost, thank you for joining us
as you prepare to defend your championship
a week from tomorrow
at the Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event.
Now, last week, on Friday Night SmackDown,
-we saw the re-emergence of an icon. -Oh, come on.
Don't call me an icon.
I'm just special counsel to The Tribal Chief.
Paul, I was actually talking about Goldberg.
Goldberg? You're talking about Goldberg?
Yes, Goldberg.
The Hall of Famer.
The man who once won 173 straight matches in WCW,
went on to beat "The Immortal" Hulk Hogan to win the WCW Championship.
-That Goldberg. -173 straight matches?
Wow. That's pretty good.
If I was in WCW, everyone would be winning,
because they'd still be in business.
Next question. Hurry up, let's go.
Goldberg has twice won that Universal Championship.
In fact, let's talk about what Goldberg accomplished
a few years ago at Survivor Series
when he defeated "The Beast" Brock Lesnar
in 86 seconds.
[crowd cheers]
[Graves] This is the matchup Michael Cole's referring to.
The first thunderous spear by Goldberg,
followed by a second even more hellacious spear
to The Beast Incarnate.
And the exclamation point,
a monstrous Jackhammer before Goldberg…
-One, two, three! -…conquered the conqueror.
[epic theme music plays]
[announcer] Here is your winner, Goldberg!
[crowd cheers]
[inaudible]
[laughs]
Are we still talking about this guy?
Brock Lesnar's old news. The farmer, the butch--
He's old news. The guy in my shadow, old news.
Does anyone even care about--
-Does anyone care about him anymore? -I don't care about him.
I love my Tribal Chief. "Reigning, defending…"
Who wants to be introduced that way, anyway?
What a megalomaniacal ego this man has.
Two-time Universal Champion.
Nobody cares. Do you want to know why?
Because I'm here now.
I'm the greatest Universal Champion of all time.
No one has done the things that I've done in over 35 years,
and if that guy came back around,
I'd smack him in the face and get him out of here too.
Do you understand?
You understand. Next question.
This match between you and Goldberg
was supposed to take place two years ago at WrestleMania.
It never happened.
Finally, we get this match next Saturday.
Is there any added pressure on you?
Not at all.
I'd say all the pressure is on Goldberg.
Because two years ago…
he might have had a chance.
Everything's different now. The whole world's changed. I've changed.
I'm the head of the table now.
Your Tribal Chief is untouchable, Cole.
I've smashed everyone.
Like I said before, the greatest of all time.
I'm going to smash Goldberg.
As a matter of fact… [snaps fingers]
Ladies and gentlemen, what you're about to hear
is not a prediction…
it's a spoiler.
I'm going to Goldberg…
Goldberg.
There's no doubt about it, come Elimination Chamber,
Roman Reigns versus Goldberg for the Universal Championship.
We are in for an epic showdown.
But before we get to Elimination Chamber,
there's a score that needs to be settled
right here on Friday Night SmackDown in the Women's Division.
I want to take you back to the genesis of all of these issues.
Aliyah would go one-on-one with Natalya,
a three-time Guinness World Record holder,
who attempted to gain an upper hand on Aliyah
prior to the opening bell,
-which would lead to this. -One, two, three!
-[bell rings] -Shockingly…
Aliyah would earn the fastest victory in WWE history.
Three point one seven seconds.
Understandably, Natalya not thrilled with that outcome,
would make another attempt to right the wrong.
-In this instance, Natalya's aggression… -[bell rings]
…would get the best of her, earning a disqualification
for failure to adhere to the official's count.
And it was last Friday, right here on SmackDown,
things continued to heat up on the outside of the ring.
Natalya would eat the barricade
-and open the door for Aliyah… -[bell rings]
…to score a count-out victory
over the self-proclaimed best of all time,
which is how we arrived here.
-[upbeat theme music plays] -[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall
and can only be won by pinfall or submission.
Introducing first, from Toronto, Ontario, Canada,
Aliyah!
[crowd cheers]
Aliyah looking forward to this matchup to silence the doubters,
the biggest of all, Natalya herself.
Can Aliyah continue to build on her momentum?
We will find out,
because after Natalya was defeated three times in a row,
Natalya goes one-on-one with Aliyah in a matchup
that must be won by pinfall or submission only.
It's live and it's next.
[Cole] And tonight, Friday Night SmackDown on Fox
is sponsored by Progressive insurance.
Save when you bundle auto, home or motorcycle insurance.
Aliyah in the ring hoping to keep her undefeated streak
in one-on-one competition intact here on Friday Night SmackDown.
[upbeat rock theme music playing]
[announcer] And her opponent, from Calgary, Alberta, Canada,
Natalya!
[Graves] This is a very different scenario for Aliyah tonight, Cole,
because the only way to win this matchup is by pinfall or by submission.
Yes, Aliyah scored a pinfall victory,
the fastest in WWE history, against Natalya,
but when it comes to submissions, let's be honest,
Aliyah's completely overmatched here.
[Cole] Natalya, of course, holding the Guinness Book of World Records.
She is a three-time Guinness Book of World Records title holder.
In fact, Guinness said they would open their own section
for just Natalya.
It has been very embarrassing,
it's been very humiliating…
[Graves] I'm contagious, I know. I get it.
[laughter]
[Cole] For Natalya losing all these weeks to Aliyah.
What does Natalya have to do to refocus here tonight?
-[bell rings] -[Graves] Natalya needs to keep
her emotions in check.
We've seen in the past Natalya getting overzealous and making mistakes.
Right now Aliyah trying to fight her way out of this side headlock takeover.
Natalya-- Nice by Aliyah, the headscissors, and a kip-up by Natalya.
[Natalya exclaims]
Natalya, kick right to the midsection.
Of course, Natalya the more experienced of the two.
Aliyah says she's just enjoying the ride right now in WWE.
Cover again by Natalya, and a hook,
-a kick-out. -[Natalya] You suck.
You're not ever going to be as good as me, Aliyah.
[Graves] Natalya verbally berating Aliyah in the midst of a matchup.
Up and over goes Aliyah.
And Aliyah, nice move.
That's right, Nattie.
Not sure Natalya will take too kindly to that.
Leapfrog by Natalya.
Aliyah, great moves of her own.
Natalya, though, using her power.
Aliyah, roll through.
Is it enough to put Natalya away again? And a kick-out at two.
Remember, you win via pinfall or submission only.
We always talk about the importance of confidence
for a competitor here in WWE.
That's what we're seeing with Aliyah.
-Yes, they were… -And you are a piece of crap.
…somewhat controversial victories,
but Aliyah continuing to beat Natalya…
-Bang! Oh! -…is giving her confidence,
which makes for a very--
-Uh-oh, cover here. -Michinoku Driver.
[Cole] Cover and a kick-out by Aliyah.
-[Natalya] Do your job well. -I did. It was a one-count.
[Graves] This is what Natalya needs to avoid.
You see her engaging with the official.
Natalya needs to focus on the task at hand which is Aliyah.
[Cole] Showing her frustration already tonight.
And Aliyah looking for yet another victory.
Roll-up again. Natalya at two has gotta kick out.
Oh, and a Thesz Press.
Aliyah now hammering away on Natalya.
Not sure Natalya expected this tonight.
Bulldog. Face-first goes Natalya.
-Cover by Aliyah. -Aliyah cover again.
Is it enough to put her away? A kick-out at two and a half.
How impressive has Aliyah been?
[Graves] I'm extremely impressed with what I've seen from Aliyah thus far.
Let's see what Aliyah's submission arsenal consists of.
-Half crab. -Look at this.
Singe-leg crab applied here.
-Natalya. -Relatively easy escape for Natalya.
I think Aliyah came down hard on the back of her head.
Now dragging Aliyah back to the center of the ring.
Natalya setting up Aliyah perhaps for the Sharpshooter.
[Graves] In the dead center of the ring.
[Cole] The Hart family tradition.
The sharpshooter locked in.
Aliyah with nowhere to go, trying to drag herself to the bottom rope.
Natalya with the sharpshooter locked in.
Aliyah trying to hang on.
Makes it to the bottom rope, but remember, no breaks.
-[Graves] There's no disqualification. -Submission or pinfall only.
There's no count-out.
-Oh no. Aliyah tapped out. -[bell rings]
You heard the referee remind her, and Aliyah had no choice
but to tap out as Natalya
-had the Sharpshooter locked in. -Here is your winner by submission,
Natalya!
And for Natalya, that had to feel great.
[Graves] Natalya able to get the monkey off of her back--
Oh, that's haunted her for weeks, and now a little extra-curricular activity.
Again, this is all the frustration that has been building up, Corey,
for the past month inside Natalya.
And she's going to take it out here tonight on Aliyah.
-[epic theme music plays] -[Cole] Wait a second.
A woman who has had some run-ins with Natalya in the past as well.
This is "The Protector" Xia Li,
making her way to the ring.
[Graves] Natalya is ready tonight.
[Cole] And so is Xia Li, going right after Natalya.
Rapid-fire rights from Xia Li.
A big knee to Natalya as well, and a kick to the midsection.
And Xia Li taking the fight to Natalya who's got to retreat.
[epic music plays]
[Cole] "The Protector" Xia Li arrives.
[Graves] Xia Li once again coming to the aid of Aliyah
at the expense of Natalya.
Natalya picks up the win, but certainly isn't the last one laughing.
Ladies and gentlemen, we here in WWE are so proud
to be celebrating Black History Month.
And tonight, we take a look back
at the legendary Hall of Fame Superstar known as Rocky Johnson.
And what an honor it is for his very own son,
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, to narrate the celebration of his dad.
[The Rock] Power and charisma.
[commentator] Is he exciting or is he?
[The Rock] A Herculean physique with unparalleled athleticism.
[commentator] Look at the footwork on Johnson.
[commentator 2] Johnson continues to dominate here.
[The Rock] That was "The Soul Man" Rocky Johnson…
and that was my dad.
Rocky would join forces with Tony Atlas to form The Soul Patrol,
making history when they became
the first African-American Tag Team Champions.
[commentator] I can't believe it.
Here are the new Tag Team Champions,
Tony Atlas, Rocky Johnson!
We won it for all of our fans and all of our people.
[The Rock] Outside the ring, Rocky would marry Ata Maivia,
daughter of the legendary "High Chief" Peter Maivia.
And together, they would have a little boy,
and his name was Dewey.
My dad trained me in the world of sports entertainment.
And I would then have the honor to go on to further my dad's legacy
by entertaining the millions…
and millions of fans around the world.
In 2008, Rocky Johnson's life would come full circle as I had the great pleasure
to induct him into the Hall of Fame.
My dad was a hero to me.
He was able to cross all lines
and become one of the most dynamic and formidable performers of his time.
It is my great honor to welcome my dad, Rocky Johnson.
I would like to be remembered
for paving the road for all athletes,
no matter race, color, or creed.
[The Rock] A true trailblazing entertainer.
Rocky Johnson's legacy will be remembered for generations.
Thank you, Dad, for paving the way.
I'll see you down the road.
[crowd chants] Rocky!
[Cole] You know, moments ago, The Rock just tweeted out,
"This one makes me emotional,
but, man, I'm smiling with goosebumps and gratitude."
"Thank you, Dad."
"I'll forever be proud of who and what I am."
"I love you."
[upbeat rock theme music plays]
And from that to this.
-Why would you disparage this man? -Please welcome
the host of In-Zayn, Sami Zayn!
[Graves] I cannot wait for In-Zayn,
some quality time with The Master Strategist.
Let me just say.
I've been watching from Monday nights,
and how the Jackass crew have been treating Sami Zayn
is absolutely criminal.
[Cole] You know, Corey, Sami Zayn gets an opportunity
at the Intercontinental Championship next week.
Tonight, in his own personal talk show, In-Zayn,
Sami welcomes the Intercontinental Champion, Shinsuke Nakamura,
live next.
As always, I'm the main event.
[Graves] This is what she is talking about.
Charlotte Flair, The Opportunity,
will defend her SmackDown Women's Championship against Naomi.
And we found out earlier tonight that by order of the chairman,
if Sonya Deville lays a hand on Naomi, her job will be in serious jeopardy.
[Cole] And tonight, Friday Night SmackDown on Fox is presented by Progressive.
Meanwhile, there is Sami Zayn
set for his own personal talk show, In-Zayn.
You remember what happened last week, Corey?
You alluded to it earlier,
Sami Zayn crashing the Jackass Forever premiere last week.
Well, Johnny Knoxville returned the favor a bit earlier today.
Hi, you have any Sami Zayn stuff?
-Right over there. -Oh.
Loser.
Ma'am, do you have any other Sami Zayn merchandise?
Oh, see? See?
This is a copyright infringement.
"Sami Zayn forever," it's a knock-off on Jackass Forever.
He's really done it. He has really done it.
[machinery whirring]
How does Sami Zayn like it now?
[chuckles] He's going down.
Sami Zayn's going down.
It's not over. It's not over.
[Graves] Disrespect, delusion.
-I used to be a Johnny Knoxville fan. -Okay, okay, okay, okay, okay.
-Okay, okay, okay. -[crowd boos]
I am not even going to dignify that, right there,
because Jackass man, Johnny Knoxville,
has already spent way too much time getting in my head,
and I think I need to start focusing on the task at hand,
like reclaiming my Intercontinental Championship…
[crowd clamoring]
And, in the short-term, hosting my podcast, In-Zayn.
This is In-Zayn. Welcome to the show.
-I am your host, Sami Zayn. -[crowd boos]
Okay, we're going to-- No booing. No audio.
You're going to ruin the audio, so please.
[crowd boos]
Now, we're going to be discussing some really intellectual things tonight.
We're going to have a lengthy discussion
on the subjective nature of human consciousness.
But don't worry, I did dumb it down for you people.
I'm going to offer some vegan Creole recipes
for the people of New Orleans.
[chuckles] Don't worry.
-[crowd boos] -Yeah, yeah, food, good.
-[Rick Boogs plays guitar] -[crowd cheers]
Hey, hey-oh.
[crowd] Hey, hey-oh!
I said, hey, hey-oh!
[crowd] Hey, hey-oh!
All right, my name's Rick…
-[crowd] Boogs! -…Boogs!
And I came to rock with the Intercontinental Champion.
Say it with me…
Shinsuke
Nakamura! [guttural rocker scream]
[Cole] Not quite sure what Sami expected.
He invited Shinsuke Nakamura and Rick Boogs
to be his guests here tonight.
[Graves] Extremely frustrating when you're trying to host a live podcast
and your guests are interrupting you before you're prepared.
I sympathize with Sami.
[Cole] Nonetheless, it is next week, here on Friday Night SmackDown,
that Sami Zayn finally gets his opportunity
at Intercontinental Championship held by Shinsuke Nakamura.
[Graves] You know what bothers me is that I know right now,
at this very moment, somewhere in the world,
Pat McAfee is on a table dancing around like a buffoon,
embarrassing everybody around him.
[Cole] It's a lot of fun when he does that.
[Graves] Oh, I love it. I love it when he sits on your head.
That's my favorite time.
[Cole] Then maybe smile and lighten up a bit, Corey.
Listen, what happened to Rick Boogs? Last time I saw Rick Boogs,
he was like, uh, …And Justice for All.
Now he's cut his hair off, it's like Load.
This is not good.
Nakamura still rules, though.
Okay, okay, live audio, live audio.
-[crowd cheers] -Shinsuke Nakamura.
[chuckles]
Please, have a seat.
Hey, I'm actually really shocked, even though you rudely interrupted me.
I'm pretty shocked that you actually showed up
because, for over six weeks,
I have been Number One Contender for that Intercontinental Championship,
and you have been ducking me.
[crowd boos]
You have been ducking me, but it doesn't matter
because next week we finally go one-on-one
for the Intercontinental Championship.
And I can't wait to see the look on your face…
Yeah, that one, that look right there.
I can't wait to see the look on your face
when I beat you and reclaim my Intercontinental Championship.
[crowd boos]
You think I don't know what you've been doing?
I do.
You've secretly been working with Johnny Knoxville
to try to distract me, to try--
Is there something you disagree with there?
Please be quiet.
[crowd boos]
Hey, Sami…
did you see the movie?
Did I see the movie? What, Jackass Forever?
In case you didn't notice,
I got thrown off the red carpet premiere in Holl--
No, no, Sami. No, Sami.
The movie they're making next week called
-Jackass Defeated. -Nice!
[laughs] He means you.
-He means you. -Oh, is that funny?
-[laughs] You find that funny, do you? -Yeah.
You know, this whole thing is funny
because, Nakamura, I used to have so much respect for you.
You once had "The Great Liberator" Sami Zayn, in your corner,
-and now you go from me to him? -Yeah.
-To this meathead? -[crowd boos]
To this shaved gorilla with a guitar?
Let me tell you something, "Rick Boobs,"
okay, you could lift all the weights in the world,
you could do your little military presses,
you could do your bench, you could do your deads,
and you can play your guitar all-day long,
-doing all the-- -For God's sake, Sami, shut up!
[crowd cheers]
And let me tell you something, all right.
-Let me tell you something. -[electricity crackling]
Oh-ho-ho. Oh my God, what happened?
Oh my God, Boogs, are you okay?
[Cole] Oh my goodness!
[crowd boos]
Oh my God.
How'd that happen?
Can we get them some medical help?
Get this man some medical help.
-[crowd boos] -I mean, that's a shame.
That's really a shame.
[Cole] There, as Nakamura was attempting to tend to Rick Boogs,
Sami Zayn delivering a Helluva Kick to the Intercontinental Champion.
Sending a message because Sami faces Shinsuke for the title next week.
Sami Zayn clearly has a master strategy in place
to become Intercontinental Champion once again.
As we try to get some help out here for Rick Boogs,
switching gears, we're gonna take you back to next week.
Drew McIntyre in the ring addressing Happy Corbin.
[crowd chants] You suck!
Drew, after what we did to your neck,
the thought of that, well, it makes me really happy.
[chuckles]
Hey, buddy, since you're here, I want to hear a joke.
What does a criminal found not guilty
have in common with the main event of WrestleMania?
Tell me.
They're both going to get off scot-free.
[laughter]
[indistinct chatter]
[Cole] This is what Drew thought about this,
a Claymore shattering the face of Madcap Moss.
[Corbin] It doesn't look good, doesn't look bad, either.
You look pretty tough, so we've got that going for us,
but check it out, my match versus Cesaro, it's up next.
Let's rock and roll. Let's get this done, all right?
Actually, I'm going to have to miss this one tonight.
Whoa, what?
Claymore?
-I could use a little "clayless." -[laughs]
-I knew you were-- -I'm serious.
Look, you can handle Cesaro on your own tonight.
-Well, obviously, but-- -I'm going to go get this looked at.
Who knows, maybe the doctor won't medically clear me
to fight Drew McIntyre at Elimination Chamber.
-Wouldn't that be a shame, huh? -[laughter]
[crowd clamoring]
[Cole] Corey, welcome to the happy folks.
They entertain us every week.
[Graves] I, for one, am excited to be part of this, Cole.
I have to listen to that hillbilly millionaire, McAfee,
disparage this man week after week.
I'm going to put a little respect on Happy Corbin's name.
-[up-tempo theme music plays] -[crowd boos]
[Cole] There's a reason this man is happy.
He's been undefeated since he hit the jackpot last summer.
[explosion pops]
It's good to be Happy Corbin.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, weighing in at 285 pounds, Happy Corbin!
I guess, Corey, when you got all the money in the world,
and you don't lose matches, you can smile every once in a while.
[Graves] Well, Happy Corbin better drop the smile and get ready to fight
because he goes one-on-one with "The Swiss Superman" Cesaro,
who's looking to get back on track, live next.
[Cole] Ladies and gentlemen, the Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event
is a week from tomorrow from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
in the town of Jeddah at the Jeddah Superdome,
and this event has been on billboards throughout the entire country,
including a lot of talk about the Raw Women's Championship match
between Becky Lynch and Lita.
Yet another shining example of how WWE continues to influence the world.
Back here on Friday Night SmackDown in New Orleans,
match underway, Happy Corbin one-on-one with Cesaro.
Naomi mentioned earlier, Corey, ever since striking it rich this past summer,
Happy Corbin's been undefeated in WWE.
Oh!
[Graves] Cesaro, on the other hand, hasn't had much luck
in recent weeks here on Friday Night SmackDown.
Listen, I understand that Happy Corbin may be a bit abrasive to some,
but let's put a little respect on Happy Corbin's name.
He is a world-class athlete, a true fighter,
as Cesaro can attest firsthand.
There's no doubt, Corey, but what about what he tried to do
to Drew McIntyre back at the day one Premium Live Event?
Ambushing him back in the locker room with Madcap Moss,
and then they attacked him.
They dropped a lighting truss on his head.
It almost cost him his career.
It doesn't sound like much of an attempt, I'd say Happy Corbin
and Madcap Moss succeeded fairly well.
[Graves] There's always room for one at the top of the mountain, Cole,
and Happy Corbin believes that's where he belongs to be.
[Cole] Well, right now, he's dominating Cesaro.
Twelve-six elbows right to the collarbone of The Swiss Cyborg.
Look at this next-level aggression.
That doesn't look like Happy.
Well, if you're going to be dealing with Drew McIntyre,
you've got to bring it to the next level of aggression.
That was a little tasteless that McIntyre Claymore'd Madcap Moss.
All Madcap was trying to do was entertain.
[Cole] Well, it wasn't very entertaining, I suppose.
And now Cesaro trying to fight out,
get back to a vertical base and rally in this match.
[Graves] I don't blame Madcap Moss
for not being out here ringside to protect his own well-being,
potentially hazardous situation.
Might have a fractured orbital bone.
-Oh! -[Cole] Oh, there's Deep Six by Corbin.
Crawls to the cover.
Hook of the leg now on Cesaro, and Cesaro kicks out.
[Graves] Take another look at this disorienting spin before crushing impact.
Happy Corbin nearly knocked off The Swiss Superman with Deep Six.
[Cole] This is the pace that Corbin loves, this methodical beatdown of his opponent.
[Graves] It's a slow pace,
but Corbin has the ability to be so explosive when need be.
[Cole] And as can Cesaro, who's fighting back now in this match.
Another right hand.
[Graves] Corbin on spaghetti legs in the corner.
Can Cesaro make something happen here?
-Cesaro off the-- -No. No. Oh.
-Wow! -Look at the suplex by Cesaro.
-My goodness. -That created some space,
as Cesaro looks to gain momentum and get back in this match.
[Graves] That's why you can almost never count Cesaro out of any match.
Truly game-changing power possessed by The Swiss Cyborg,
and a series of uppercuts.
[Cole] Cesaro whipped into the corner by Happy Corbin.
Slides underneath the bottom rope,
that right there is vintage Corbin,
but Cesaro was ready for him,
and caught him with another uppercut.
Oh, and knocking Corbin right over the top rope!
[Graves] But Corbin landed on his feet.
[Cole] And Corbin, though, able to drag Cesaro out of the ring,
and now a reversal, and Corbin driven into the barricade.
[Graves] Corbin colliding hip first with the barricade,
and here comes Cesaro!
[Cole] With the running uppercut.
And now Corbin sent back into the ring,
and Cesaro looking for a big victory here tonight.
Cesaro out of the way.
Springboard Corkscrew Uppercut.
Cover, for the victory on Corbin, and a kick-out.
Cesaro's such an athlete.
Cesaro could be looking for the Neutralizer.
His finishing maneuver, the Gotch Neutralizer as he lands on his feet.
Corbin into the corner.
Runs into an elbow does Cesaro.
Heavy right, looked like it may have been a little low,
might have caught Cesaro in the throat.
[Cole] Boot by Cesaro. Oh, and a wicked clothesline by Corbin.
And now Corbin with the End of Days to Cesaro.
Happy Corbin gonna be laughing all the way to the bank.
[bell rings]
[up-tempo theme music plays]
[announcer] Here is your winner, the undefeated, Happy Corbin!
[Cole] He's on quite the roll is Mr. Corbin.
Undefeated since becoming Happy and hitting the jackpot last summer.
[Graves] Right here he hit the End of Days on Cesaro,
a maneuver that's brought Happy Corbin so many wins,
and Corbin doesn't show any signs of slowing down.
[up-tempo theme music continues]
I should ask Corbin if he has any tips for my next trip to Vegas.
I don't know, doc, obviously I'm having a lot of trouble seeing here.
Everything's blurry. There's dark spots in my right visual field.
As much as it pains me to say this,
I think you got to cancel my match with Drew McIntyre at Elimination Chamber.
I'll need to test your vision.
Go ahead and close your eyes for me.
And open your right eye and tell me what you see.
I see a sword.
A sword?
[crowd cheers]
Hi.
I know you're perfectly fine, buddy,
so go ahead and tell Mr. Doctor here
you're perfectly good to go against Drew McIntyre at Elimination Chamber.
The vision is miraculously better, all good.
Thank God. I was worried about you for a second, buddy,
because I was just talking to Adam Pearce.
It's no longer just an old regular match we're having. No, no, no.
At Elimination Chamber, it's you and I, falls count anywhere.
You never know, maybe I'll Claymore the other eye,
balance out your black eyes, or maybe I'll say screw it,
it's anything goes, which means…
anything goes.
[chuckles]
["Astronaut in the Ocean" plays]
[Cole] McIntyre and Madcap ready for falls count anywhere.
Also, at the Elimination Chamber Premium Live Event,
Roman Reigns defends his Universal Title against the Hall of Famer Goldberg.
But up next, the Hall of Famer,
the personification of intensity,
the challenger for the Universal Championship,
Goldberg is back on SmackDown next.
[upbeat rock music plays]
Tonight I'm snuffing out Naomi's glow.
[laughs]
[Graves] Charlotte Flair making her intentions known,
but she's got to do it all on her own,
because by order of the chairman, Mr. McMahon,
Sonya Deville cannot lay a hand on Naomi
as Naomi challenges Charlotte Flair
for the SmackDown Women's Championship tonight.
And a week from Saturday,
the Universal Championship will be on the line,
an epic showdown many years in the making.
Quite simply, it can't get much bigger.
Goldberg, Reigns, Universal Championship.
Michael Cole caught up with the challenger.
I know you've got to do your job.
Don't take this personally.
I love you like a brother.
You know, very few people have accomplished
what you have in this industry.
Bill, you and I have known each other for many years,
but there are whisperers out there,
a lot of people are talking that this may be one comeback too many.
See, and that's the problem.
The problem over the past number of years
is I've listened to a couple of those people,
and it's taken me out of my game,
but I turned the page
and I finally realized that I don't give a damn what anybody thinks.
Not you, not Roman Reigns, no one.
So as far as comebacks are concerned,
this one's going to stick and this one is going to be everlasting,
and this one will call upon the old Goldberg you remember.
This match was supposed to take place two years ago
at WrestleMania and didn't,
and Roman Reigns said earlier tonight,
this is much different than it was two years ago.
It might be different for Roman Reigns,
he may call himself The Tribal Chief,
the head of the table, whatever moniker he wants to use,
with his entourage going in the ring,
but for me, it ain't changed, I'm still the same Goldberg,
and he's going to get what he deserves
because it's been taken-- Yeah, it's two years coming.
Ten years coming, 15 years coming.
It's finally going to happen.
Roman Reigns said that, A, he will make you acknowledge him
next Saturday at Elimination Chamber,
and, B, he will Goldberg Goldberg.
Firstly…
he must have an extremely short memory,
because I acknowledged Roman Reigns last week as my next victim.
What's about to happen at Elimination Chamber
after I destroy him is he will acknowledge me
as the new Universal Champion.
I will take the title and I will walk into the main event at WrestleMania,
and I will face Brock Lesnar, and his ass will be next.
As far as Goldberging Goldberg… [chuckles]
Good luck with that, kid.
There's only one me, it ain't gonna happen.
At Elimination Chamber,
an epic showdown for the Universal Championship awaits,
Reigns versus Goldberg,
but before we arrive at Elimination Chamber,
we've got a championship matchup of our own
right here tonight on Friday Night SmackDown.
But we started the show with an announcement
from WWE official Adam Pearce
reading his email from the chairman, Mr. McMahon.
"As for your inappropriate treatment of Naomi,
you must face the consequences of your actions."
"You are not to lay a hand on Naomi in any way tonight,
especially as it pertains to the championship match
with Charlotte Flair."
[crowd cheers]
And it concludes, "If you disobey me…
your job will be…
in serious jeopardy."
[crowd cheers]
You know, he funny thing is,
Mr. McMahon said you can't lay a hand on me…
but he never said I can't lay a hand on you.
[crowd cheers]
[Graves] Oof!
A brazen slap from Naomi
to her longtime thorn in her side, Sonya Deville.
It is time to go.
SmackDown Women's Championship on the line!
♪ Bring it to the floor ♪
[electronic dance music playing]
Tonight "The Opportunity" Charlotte Flair
is going to get a full dose of the glow,
as her energetic challenger, Naomi,
momentarily free from the tyranny of Sonya Deville,
finally gets a fair one-on-one opportunity
for the SmackDown Women's Championship.
Charlotte Flair shines brightest
when the circumstances are the toughest.
Who wants it more?
Charlotte Flair, Naomi, SmackDown Women's Title live next.
[rock music playing]
[announcer] Here come the cars into the coliseum.
WWE Superstar Sheamus, you are the honorary starter today.
There was hype about it, because it is a historic event for NASCAR.
Here we go. Are you ready for it?
We're here locked on the coliseum.
[female announcer] Sheamus in the flag stand.
Green flag is in the air, and we're racing at the LA Coliseum.
[Sheamus] If there was a roof on this place, there wouldn't be any after today.
[Cole] Sheamus had a blast in LA,
but tonight, Friday Night SmackDown is in New Orleans.
We are just across the street from the Superdome,
hosted two WrestleManias,
and tonight, we're in the home of the New Orleans Pelicans.
[Graves] One way or another, someone's gonna have to peel me off
of Bourbon Street tomorrow morning, Cole, but I cannot wait for what's going down
right here on Friday Night SmackDown next week
ahead of the epic battle for the Universal Championship.
The reigning, defending, undisputed Universal Champion, Roman Reigns,
will go face-to-face with WWE Hall of Famer
and championship challenger, Goldberg.
Sami Zayn claims that Shinsuke Nakamura
has been ducking him for well over a month.
Well, next week, they finally get it on.
Nakamura defends the Intercontinental Championship
against Sami Zayn on Friday Night SmackDown on Fox.
Meanwhile, championship opportunity for Naomi.
She battles for the SmackDown Women's Title.
Is it me or does Naomi seem a little lighter on her feet tonight than usual
knowing that she doesn't have to worry about Sonya Deville
creeping up from behind?
[upbeat rock theme music plays]
[Cole] As of now, Charlotte Flair is set to defend her championship
against Ronda Rousey at WrestleMania.
The question is, Corey,
will Charlotte be the titleholder come WrestleMania?
[Graves] If you ask Charlotte Flair,
there is absolutely no doubt in her mind
that Charlotte Flair's name will be in the bright lights of Dallas, Texas,
defending her coveted SmackDown Women's Championship
against The Baddest Woman on the Planet,
because, let's be honest, pressure creates diamonds,
-and no one… -[explosions popping]
…competes under pressure like Charlotte Flair.
[Cole] Things will be different tonight for Naomi
from the last time she met Charlotte Flair because Sonya Deville won't be around.
Remember, Sonya cannot lay a hand on Naomi here tonight.
And tonight, Friday Night SmackDown on Fox is sponsored by Progressive insurance.
Save when you bundle auto, home or motorcycle insurance.
Charlotte Flair, the 13-time champion set to defend the title.
Charlotte Flair will defend her SmackDown Women's Championship
as of now against "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey,
the woman who outlasted 29 other women in the Royal Rumble match
to earn the opportunity to face The Opportunity,
because, WWE Universe, we are all looking at The Opportunity.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest scheduled for one fall
is for the SmackDown Women's Championship!
[crowd cheers]
Introducing the challenger, from Orlando, Florida, Naomi!
[crowd cheers]
And her opponent,
she is the SmackDown Women's Champion,
Charlotte Flair!
[Cole] Six times in her career, Charlotte Flair
has held the SmackDown gold.
She's also been a Tag Team Champion and a winner of the Royal Rumble.
On the other side of the ring,
Naomi, a former two-time SmackDown Women's Champion.
She won the Women's Battle Royal at WrestleMania a couple of years ago,
and tonight, she has her sights set on the Women's Championship.
Big fight feel here tonight in New Orleans.
Charlotte and Naomi, one-on-one for the gold.
Strategy for the challenger, Corey, Naomi, tonight?
[Graves] It's so tough to strategize
against a competitor the caliber of a Charlotte Flair.
I think Naomi's focus needs to be on herself
and not make any mistakes,
because if Naomi makes one slip-up, one error,
Charlotte Flair will capitalize and make the challenger pay.
And we talked earlier, Corey, really for the first time in months,
Naomi is able to finally concentrate on a match one-on-one,
and not worry about Sonya Deville lurking somewhere in the shadows,
as Charlotte delivers a shoulder tackle to Naomi.
At her best, as you mentioned,
Naomi's been SmackDown Women's Champion twice in the past.
-Naomi has the ability to do so. -Oh!
But Charlotte Flair for my money is just unbeatable right now.
Naomi now with a kip-up.
Charlotte was not expecting that.
Really?
One thing about Naomi, she oozes confidence,
she's not going to back down.
And Naomi one of the most athletic women in the history of WWE.
[Graves] The champion's disoriented in the moment, Naomi needs to capitalize.
[Cole] Charlotte now whipped across the ring.
Up over the top, lands on the apron.
Naomi just caught her, just barely,
but enough to cause Charlotte to lose her balance,
fall off the apron to the floor.
Naomi now to the outside!
And Charlotte taken down.
Can Naomi win the SmackDown Women's Title?
[crowd cheers]
Big-time championship match here tonight on Friday Night SmackDown on Fox as well.
Charlotte, the current SmackDown Women's Champion,
defending against Naomi, and Charlotte is taking control of this match.
[Graves] Charlotte Flair absolutely dominating the challenger at the moment.
Naomi has shown flashes of brilliance,
but each time they've been extinguished by the champion.
[Cole] Naomi creating some space,
and looking, perhaps, to fight back into this matchup.
[Graves] I guarantee you, nobody's watching this matchup
more closely than Ronda Rousey,
who made her intentions known for WrestleMania
to challenge Charlotte Flair.
It could very well be Naomi in Dallas.
-Off the top rope. Crossbody! -Oh!
Caught Charlotte, lateral press for the win,
and a kick-out at two!
[Graves] Naomi caught the champion off guard,
and Charlotte Flair very nearly became former SmackDown Women's Champion.
[Cole] And now Charlotte, the 13-time champ is in trouble.
Oh, and an elbow catches Naomi.
That'll break the waist lock.
Naomi off the second rope. Charlotte able to drive her to the mat.
Cover by the champion to retain.
Shoulders down, and a kick-out.
[Graves] A seamless transition from Charlotte Flair,
driving the challenger face-first.
Let's take a look at the athleticism of Naomi.
Moments ago, soaring through the sky, taking down Flair,
but Charlotte Flair would turn it back around with a-- Oh!
Vicious fistful of hair,
and now the champion right where she belongs, in control.
[Cole] Charlotte is just neutralizing Naomi here.
The referee, Dan Engler, right there,
checking on whether or not Naomi will tap out.
[Graves] This is smart.
Charlotte knows that if she slows the pace down a little bit,
it is to her benefit.
Naomi likes to push the pace, make things fast.
[Cole] Sending Naomi halfway across the ring, and a kip-up by Charlotte.
And The Opportunity is taking over.
[Graves] A truly, impressive, physical specimen.
[Cole] Oh, nobody home.
Naomi able to scoot out of the way,
and a kick right to the back of the knee, the hamstring of Charlotte Flair.
[Graves] And a Jawbreaker from the challenger.
[Cole] Naomi rallying.
Cover now on the champ. Kick-out at two.
Another takedown by Naomi.
Jackknife cover, perhaps.
And, ooh, Charlotte able to…
-get out of that predicament. -Great power from the champion.
And now went for a backslide.
Oh, what a chop!
[Graves] Sharp Knife Edge Chops from Charlotte Flair,
has the challenger rocked.
[Cole] Oh, backbreaker!
Knee to the spine. Cover.
Wraps both legs, and a kick-out by Naomi.
Now Charlotte a bit frustrated.
[Graves] Take a look at this power from Charlotte Flair.
Tilt-a-Whirl Backbreaker, had to hurt Naomi in a bad, bad way.
What is Charlotte Flair looking for here?
Dragging Naomi to the ring post.
[Cole] Now the viciousness of Charlotte Flair comes into play.
[Graves] Charlotte's focusing her attack on the lower back of the challenger.
This is the type of aggression
that separates Charlotte Flair from the rest of the pack.
This is why Charlotte Flair belongs in the main event,
in the bright lights, for the championships,
with the championships.
[Cole] The reason that she is, perhaps, the greatest ever
when it comes to Women's Champions here in WWE,
but Naomi is not going to give up that easily.
Tremendous heart here
from the former two-time SmackDown Women's Champion.
Oh, Naomi caught Charlotte and stunned the champ!
[Graves] Naomi making the climb to the top rope.
[Cole] Up top, Naomi.
Oh, look at this. Is it enough off the Blockbuster?
Cover now, to win the championship.
Hook of the leg on Charlotte for the win!
Almost had her. Two and a half!
[Graves] My goodness.
The WWE Universe on their feet.
Take a look at this spectacular athleticism by the challenger, Naomi.
Landing the Blockbuster perfectly,
but the champion with just a little too much left in the tank.
[Cole] And now Naomi has to regroup,
stay focused, the champ's in trouble.
[Graves] Note the instinct of Charlotte Flair,
the champion realizing that she can't be pinned or submitted
underneath the bottom rope,
instinctively rolling away from her opponent.
And now Naomi driven into the steps by Charlotte,
and just like that the champ is back in it!
Title match rolls on, live on Fox.
Will Charlotte Flair retain
or will Naomi become the new SmackDown Women's Champion?
We find out here tonight live on Friday Night SmackDown on Fox.
Charlotte in control.
Naomi trying desperately to rally.
[Graves] No doubt about it, Ronda Rousey watching this match incredibly closely.
[Cole] Because remember, Ronda Rousey last week decided she wanted to challenge
for the SmackDown Women's Championship and Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania.
Those plans would change if Naomi wins here tonight.
Rousey, of course, winning that right by winning the Women's Royal Rumble.
Right now, Charlotte Flair, the deep rear chin lock on the challenger, Naomi,
who the WWE Universe here in New Orleans is trying to will back into this fight.
[Cole] And Naomi creates some space.
-Naomi escapes out the back side. -Lands on her feet.
Oh, and there's the cover on Charlotte
to win the Women's Championship, and a kick-out.
[Graves] Charlotte went to the well once too often,
attempted the same Tilt-a-Whirl Backbreaker.
Naomi now with the momentum.
Yes, using the springboard off the second rope,
delivering a kick to Charlotte.
Into the cover again.
For the championship, and a win for Naomi,
and a kick-out by Charlotte at two, another near fall.
Charlotte being taken to the limit here tonight by Naomi.
[Graves] This is where we'll find out what Naomi's truly made of.
This deep into the matchup,
Naomi needs to find a way to keep her foot on the gas pedal,
to keep applying pressure to the champion.
[crowd chanting for Naomi]
[Cole] The WWE Universe in New Orleans
trying to help Naomi somehow pull it out in this match
against "The Opportunity" Charlotte Flair.
[Graves] Naomi now looking for something big,
drives the champion face-first, middle turnbuckle.
[Cole] And that could be it. Naomi looking to head up to the top rope.
Is this enough to put Charlotte away?
Could this be Naomi's moment?
-Naomi… -Charlotte ducks underneath.
Naomi rolls through, and Charlotte--
Oh, look at the power of Charlotte Flair.
Oh, planting Naomi off the bomb. Cover.
Almost had her, and a kick-out at two.
[Graves] Naomi absolutely will not give up,
but the same can be said for Charlotte Flair
as we take another look at the power possessed by the champion.
Naomi wanted a headscissors of some sort,
but got spiked for her efforts by The Opportunity.
[Cole] Now Charlotte looks to regroup, wondering,
"What do I need to do to put Naomi away?"
Naomi just trying to fight back and stay in this match.
[Graves] This matchup is taking everything out of both women.
Could this be Naomi's night
or does Charlotte Flair have what it takes to finish the job?
[Cole] Charlotte looking to drag Naomi back to the center of the ring.
Look at the malice in the eyes of the champion.
Now laughing about what she just did to Naomi.
Is WrestleMania in Charlotte Flair's future
as the SmackDown Women's Champion?
Charlotte looking to climb to the top rope.
I can't help but think Charlotte
may be taking a little too much time to make the climb.
Went for the moonsault, landed on her feet but--
Oh, almost caught Naomi, but knees are up by Naomi!
-Now Naomi with an opportunity. -Rearview.
Cover for the win, new champion on SmackDown,
and Charlotte kicked out!
The emotion in the eyes of Naomi.
She thought she won.
[Graves] Everyone in New Orleans thought the exact same thing, Cole.
Charlotte Flair went for the moonsault, readjusted,
still found the knees of the challenger,
and boom, Rearview,
a maneuver that has won Naomi many matches in her career,
nearly made her SmackDown Women's Champion.
[Cole] Naomi's facial expressions right now, absolutely incredible.
She was almost in tears as she realized Charlotte Flair was done,
that she was going to win the Women's Championship,
and now Naomi realizing she's got another chance.
And Naomi now looking for the split-legged moonsault.
Oh, the knees up this time for Charlotte.
And Charlotte rolls up Naomi to retain the title,
and Naomi kicks out again!
Naomi will land on her feet.
-From behind, the full nelson. -Oh, does she have her?
Naomi's going to win the championship right here! Charlotte just kicks out!
What a sequence in this matchup.
[Graves] Unbelievable.
What an effort by both of these women.
Naomi pushing the champion to her limits.
[Cole] This has been an incredible performance by the challenger, Naomi,
here tonight on Friday Night SmackDown.
[Graves] Isn't it amazing what Naomi can accomplish with a clear head?
[Cole] Oh, and Charlotte face-first again.
For an opportunity at the title.
Shoulders down--
Oh God, almost had her, another near fall at two and a half.
[Graves] Naomi may have won this match had it not taken that extra second
to readjust to ensure that Charlotte's shoulders were down.
This is innovative offense by the challenger,
spiking Charlotte face-first,
but that momentary hesitation that was necessary.
Naomi had to ensure that both of the champion's shoulders were down,
but, in this instance, it cost her.
Imagine what's going through the mind of both of these women,
can't put one another away.
Who's going to win the SmackDown Women's Champion--
Got her!
Hooks the leg for the title for a third time, and again, Charlotte kicks out!
Are you kidding me?
[Graves] Charlotte Flair refusing to give up.
Naomi has unleashed an onslaught of offense against--
And look at the emotions, Corey, pouring from the face of Naomi.
She's an emotional mess.
Again, into the cover on Charlotte,
who gets her long leg on the bottom rope.
[Graves] A resourceful champion,
always knowing where she's at in the ring at any given moment.
One of many reasons why Charlotte Flair always belongs in the main event,
why Charlotte Flair seems to always be Women's Champion,
because she's that good.
[Cole] And now Naomi hung up on the top rope by Charlotte Flair.
Charlotte back into the ring.
Went for the Big Boot, Naomi able to sidestep,
and now Naomi unleashing with forearms to Charlotte.
What a fight being put up here tonight by Naomi.
[Graves] Relentless is the challenger.
[Cole] Oh, and now Charlotte grabbing a handful of hair.
Naomi makes her pay.
[Graves] Charlotte was rocked for the moment.
[Cole] Went for the Rearview again. Though Charlotte from behind!
Chop Block from behind, and now the Natural Selection!
And Charlotte shoots the half.
Cover now on Naomi for the win.
-Charlotte Flair retains the championship. -[bell rings]
[Charlotte Flair's music plays]
[announcer] Here is your winner, and still SmackDown Women's Champion,
-Charlotte Flair! -[Cole] What a freaking match.
[Graves] What a match indeed.
An incredible effort by Naomi in defeat,
but another reminder from Charlotte Flair
why she is The Opportunity,
why she is SmackDown Women's Champion.
[Cole] Oh, look at WWE official, Sonya Deville.
Aw, did you lose?
Did you lose?
[indistinct chatter]
You'll never be the Women's Champion, ever.
[Cole] You can't blame Naomi. Sonya Deville got in her face,
and now Naomi unleashing on Deville,
and from behind, Charlotte Flair.
-[Graves] Deville… -[Cole] Oh, and a Big Boot.
[Graves] This is just uncalled for by Sonya Deville.
The match is over.
[Cole] Well, she's also a WWE official, Corey.
-["Bad Reputation" plays] -Uh-oh.
[Cole] Wait just a minute.
"Rowdy" Ronda Rousey.
Making a beeline to the champion.
First after Deville, and now to Charlotte Flair.
The Baddest Woman on the Planet unloading.
[Graves] Ronda swinging at anything that moves.
That wasn't a bright decision, Sonya.
-Hey, Sonya's got a bad arm. -Yeah, right.
[Cole] How about a sling for the other one?
And Charlotte Flair dragging Deville to safety.
[crowd boos]
And remember, Deville was not allowed to interfere during the matchup.
Sonya's physical altercation came afterwards,
and was answered by Charlotte Flair's WrestleMania opponent,
The Baddest Woman on the Planet.
Thanks for joining us, everybody, here tonight
on Friday Night SmackDown from New Orleans.
["Bad Reputation" continues playing]
♪ I don't give a damn 'Bout my reputation ♪ ia opponent,