[WWE signature intro playing]
[John Cena] Then.
-[Ric Flair] Woo! -[glass shatters]
[The Rock] If you smell…
-[bell tolls] -[Cena] Now.
-♪ The King of Kings ♪ -♪ You can't see me ♪
[Cena] Forever.
Together.
[music fades]
[dramatic music playing]
[Kevin Patrick] Pressure is mounting on Jimmy Uso.
If Jey's not back in The Bloodline in one week,
I'm gonna blame Jimmy.
If you get rid of Sami Zayn…
Jey will come home.
[bell rings]
I'm supposed to take you out.
[yells]
[Corey Graves] Referee Chad Patton just kicked Solo Sikoa out of ringside.
Jey Uso is here.
Jimmy is so thrilled to see his brother.
Well, Sami wanted a Helluva Kick. Nobody home.
[crowd yells] One, two, three!
[bell rings]
-[Graves] Sami stole it. -What?
[dramatic music fades]
[somber music playing]
[music builds slowly]
I trust you.
I'm ready.
[crowd cheering]
[intense dramatic music playing]
[crowd cheering]
[music intensifies rapidly]
[crowd exclaims]
You thought I was gonna choose you?
It's family, boy. You thought I was gonna choose you?
[crowd cheering loudly]
[intense dramatic music playing]
Family first. Always!
-[music fades] -[crowd cheering]
[no audible dialogue]
[crowd cheering]
Here we go.
What up, OG?
OG.
Jey.
Where's The Tribal Chief?
The Tribal Chief is so proud of you,
and I'm…
I'm really proud of you too.
Well, check this out.
When you find out where he's at, you tell him I'm here.
-Yeah, I'll do that. -Yeah.
Excuse me, uh, Jey. Everybody is wondering why you did
what you did this past Monday night on Raw.
Why did you turn on Sami Zayn?
Hey, Kayla.
Everything I need to say,
I'm gonna say in the middle of that ring tonight.
-[crowd cheers] -Yeah, Kayla.
You need to be asking Cody Rhodes
why he all up in Bloodline business, Miss Nosey.
Always trying to find something… [mutters]
[def rebel's "Nobody Better Than Me" playing]
♪ Woo, woo ♪
♪ Hey, hey, hey ♪
♪ Let's go! ♪
♪ Who better than me? I don't see nobody ♪
♪ I don't see nobody Who stepping to me? ♪
♪ I don't see nobody I don't see nobody ♪
♪ Who can tussle with the beast? I don't see nobody ♪
♪ 'Cause there ain't nobody ♪
♪ I say I'm the best 'Cause ain't nobody got me ♪
♪ Running through the crowd Like there ain't nobody ♪
♪ Who better than me? ♪
♪ Woo, woo ♪
[cacophonous explosions]
♪ Besting opponents Flexing and focused ♪
♪ I'm leaving dem all Looking stressin' and folded ♪
[Cole] WrestleMania begins three weeks from tomorrow.
And the road to SoFi Stadium winds through Pittsburgh this week,
as you're looking live at a jam-packed PPG Paints Arena,
where tonight, Friday Night SmackDown on FOX is sponsored by Progressive.
A triple threat of protection with home, auto, and more.
["Gallantry" playing]
[crowd cheering]
And it's time to find out who battles Gunther
for the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania.
[popping explosion]
[bell rings]
[Samantha Irvin] The following is a Fatal 5-Way Match
scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from Ayr, Scotland,
weighing in at 275 pounds,
Drew McIntyre.
[Cole] Wade, the only man in this matchup
who knows what it's like to wear the Intercontinental Title.
[Barrett] Yes, indeed.
A man who's done pretty much everything in this industry.
It has to be said, Drew McIntyre looking as shredded as ever,
hitting peak form at exactly the right time.
[pop, crackling]
Now's your opportunity to land your place on the WrestleMania card
and seize that Intercontinental Championship.
[Cole] Couple of weeks ago, McIntyre made it clear.
His eyes were set on the Intercontinental Title.
["Dead Silent" playing]
♪ He is time ♪
♪ Famine, war ♪
♪ Pestilence ♪
♪ You cannot endure ♪
♪ The end is here ♪
♪ Fall and pray ♪
♪ Fall and pray! ♪
♪ Fall and pray ♪
[Cole] Accompanied by the Melisandre-like Scarlett,
Karrion Kross looks for an opportunity at the Intercontinental Championship.
♪ Fall and pray ♪
♪ It's a new day, yes it is! ♪
["New Day, New Way" playing]
[Irvin] Next, representing the New Day,
from Atlanta, Georgia,
weighing in at 215 pounds,
Xavier Woods.
[Cole] Xavier's partner, Kofi Kingston, was injured last week
in the brawl between these men that are involved in the matchup tonight,
so Xavier Woods replaces Kofi in this matchup.
But do you realize, Wade, in Xavier's long career,
he's only been in one match with a singles championship on the line.
That was eight years ago for the United States Title.
What an opportunity tonight for Xavier Woods.
[Irvin] Making his way to the ring, from Los Angeles, California,
weighing in at 240 pounds,
LA Knight.
[Barrett] And here we go.
The Megastar is in town
and it is absolutely ludicrous
to try and imagine a Los Angeles WrestleMania
without the guy they named a city after on the card.
[Cole] LA Knight claims that Drew and Sheamus are always crying
even though they had countless opportunities.
And it's now Fight Night!
["Hellfire" playing]
[loud explosion]
[Irvin] And their opponent, representing The Brawling Brutes,
from Dublin, Ireland, weighing in at 267 pounds,
Sheamus.
[Cole] Wade, if I were a betting man,
I would bet on Sheamus to win this matchup tonight
because of the emotional aspect. He's upset,
he's never been Intercontinental Champion in his entire career,
the one title that's eluded him,
and he calls his buddy Drew McIntyre a backstabber
for trying to step in front of Sheamus for an opportunity at the title.
[Barrett] Look, I have had to play peacemaker between Drew and Sheamus
more times than I care to remember over the past 20 years.
On this occasion, I got to side with Drew.
-McIntyre! -[grunts]
[Barrett] Sheamus does not have a divine right
to challenge for the Intercontinental Championship.
He had two outstanding matches with Gunther last year,
including Clash at the Castle. Didn't get the job done.
[Cole] Here now, you can earn the opportunity
at the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania
if you win the Fatal 5-Way. The rules are simple.
First man to gain pinfall or submission will win this match.
It didn't have to be this way.
It didn't have to come to this.
[indistinct bickering]
[Cole] And again, the bickering between the two
allows LA Knight and Karrion Kross to take over.
[Barrett] That could be the downfall of both Drew and Sheamus in this matchup.
They got a match to contend with here, and this match continues.
[Cole] Who's going to WrestleMania for the Intercontinental Championship?
[Cole] It's all about an opportunity
to battle for the Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania.
One of those five men will qualify tonight.
Will it be LA Knight? Karrion Kross?
Xavier Woods? Drew McIntyre? Or Sheamus?
Remember, first man to gain pinfall or submission
will advance to WrestleMania.
[Barrett] During the break, this brawl all over the arena thus far
until Kross and LA Knight managed to take control of the matchup.
I was gonna say, normally, it's every man for himself in this type of matchup, Wade,
but sometimes alliances will develop.
[Barrett] One hundred percent. A loose alliance, while you need it,
will take you a long way in a 5-Way matchup.
[Cole] LA Knight now dragged out of the ring by Sheamus
and driven into the barricade, and Sheamus is just intense tonight,
as Karrion Kross hits him from behind.
[Barrett] Best way to take Sheamus out, double-team him.
One of the hardest hitters in the history of this industry.
McIntyre knows a thing or two about that now.
[Cole] Wade, you know a thing or two about WrestleMania, right?
The opportunities are not limitless.
You have to do what you can to get an opportunity to be a part
of WrestleMania.
You've been in WrestleMania matches before.
How important is this night to these Superstars?
[Barrett] Well, right now, it's almost panic stations
for the five Superstars in this matchup.
All of them are more than worthy on being on the WrestleMania card,
but with just over three weeks until night one of WrestleMania…
[indistinct] Watch out.
[Barrett] …things start getting a little nervy around here.
[Cole] I guess if you're Knight and Kross,
you work together to eliminate the competition
and break this Fatal 5-Way into a one-on-one match.
McIntyre "The Scottish Warrior."
Again, the only man in this matchup
to ever have held the Intercontinental Championship.
Oh!
Gunther, the current champion, has held the title for 273 days.
[Barrett] You know Gunther is watching this matchup very closely,
regardless of who wins.
He wants to start his prep already.
[Cole] How dominant has Gunther been as champion?
As Sheamus now comes off the top rope to take out LA Knight.
Sheamus now goes for the cover, and kick--
I thought he was going to, but he's gonna inflict more punishment.
Oh, and a clothesline.
[Barrett] Here's the problem with the five Superstars in this matchup.
You know you're not beating any of them easily.
You need to put some real hurt on their bodies.
[Cole] Again, back to Gunther for just a moment, Wade.
No one in this century has held the Intercontinental Championship
longer than Gunther has.
-[Barrett] Even me? -[Cole] Even you.
-[Cole] And look at… -[Barrett] Especially me.
[Cole] Single-leg crab for Karrion Kross.
Remember, submission will win this.
Question is, will McIntyre tap?
Woods is in trouble. Sheamus back to his feet.
LA Knight with a neckbreaker. Cover.
Dragging Knight off is Kross, and so much for that alliance.
[Barrett] Chaotic matchup.
Second referee having to slide in on that occasion.
[Knight] That's your plan? Get the guy over there?
Oh, you wanna take him out, Kross?
Oh, you want one? Please.
[Cole] LA Knight says nope, and delivers a right hand to Kross.
-[Barrett] That was an unlikely alliance, -[LA Knight] Don't you ever.
Never gonna last long.
[Cole] Xavier Woods talking earlier today on social media about this opportunity.
Said, "I've been qualified for years."
"Time to make sure everyone else understands that
by winning this match tonight."
The former King of the Ring, Xavier Woods, trying to rally here.
Oh! And Woods caught him with that rolling forearm.
[Barrett] I've been impressed with Woods. Hasn't had much ring action of late.
Was a question about his ring rust coming into this matchup.
-[Cole] On a roll. -Clearly, zero sign of that.
[Cole] Now, Kross into the second rope.
Xavier Woods to the back of the neck, and also takes out McIntyre.
Unique offense by Xavier Woods.
[Barrett] Massive head of steam, but you got to make it count.
When you get the upper hand in this kind of matchup,
get in the ring and get this thing won.
[Cole] Xavier Woods, a many-time Tag Team Champion.
Oh! DDT to Karrion Kross.
[Barrett] Woods is looking unstoppable right now.
Grab your opportunity.
[Cole] Now with LA Knight up on his shoulders.
Woods with knees to the midsection.
[crowd cheering]
[Barrett] The question, was that a mistake?
Two men down. Didn't go for the pinfall.
[Cole] I think he wants to inflict more damage.
Xavier Woods now top rope.
[crowd chanting indistinctly]
Pointing to the WrestleMania sign.
Delivering the elbow all the way across the ring.
Cover. I thought it was going to be Woods' moment,
and breaking things up were Kross, and Sheamus, and McIntyre.
[Barrett] Just too much experience in the ring,
knowing when to time those breakups to perfection.
[Cole] And there is Gunther and his Imperium partners.
The Intercontinental Champion looks on.
Who's he gonna face at WrestleMania?
[Cole] It is an opportunity to punch your ticket to WrestleMania.
One of the five men in this Fatal 5-Way
will face the Intercontinental Champion, Gunther,
for the championship three weeks from tomorrow at WrestleMania.
[Barrett] That's the other part of this equation.
Winning is one thing, but is it really the right to simply lose
to the almost unstoppable Gunther at WrestleMania?
[Cole] Gunther, the Intercontinental Champion,
wandered out here with his Imperium cohorts
before the commercial break to look on. There is the champ.
Again, Gunther the champion
for an unbelievable 273 days.
And now LA Knight up to the top rope.
LA Knight looking to punch his ticket to WrestleMania.
McIntyre, tremendous core strength.
[crowd cheering]
And first man to gain pinfall or submission will win this matchup.
This is incredible, Wade.
[Barrett] You see five men battered from pillar to post,
but still with extreme athleticism.
[Cole] McIntyre landing right on the back of his neck hard.
[Barrett] Five men who can barely move right now.
[Cole] Xavier Woods and Sheamus have been taken out outside the ring.
McIntyre now focusing on Karrion Kross.
Will this be McIntyre's moment?
-[grunting] -[Cole] Oh, down goes Kross.
Couple of clotheslines by McIntyre.
[Barrett] Don't forget the history between Kross and McIntyre.
Quite the storied rivalry between those two.
[Cole] Dominated much of last year. And great belly-to-belly throw.
Into a neckbreaker this time. Kip-up by McIntyre,
and The Scottish Warrior's rolling.
[Barrett] Wouldn't it be sweet for McIntyre to put Kross away
and book his ticket for WrestleMania?
[Cole] That would be some battle, McIntyre and Gunther.
Talk about physical.
LA Knight back to his feet.
McIntyre looking for the Future Shock DDT.
LA Knight able to fight out of it.
[Barrett] LA Knight looking worse for wear.
Unable to capitalize.
[Cole] He doesn't understand that Sheamus is back in the ring…
And down goes LA Knight.
That's the nature of these Fatal 5-Way matchups.
Chaotic. Oh!
[Barrett] Just always somebody fresh to come in and steal your momentum.
[Cole] There are no count-outs or disqualifications.
It's all about pinfall or submission.
[Barrett] Sheamus desperate to become an Ultimate Grand Slam Champion in WWE.
The one thing he still gets motivated by
is the fact that he's a completionist.
He wants that Intercontinental Championship.
-The one that's missing. -[Cole] He's obsessed with it.
The 10 Beats of the Bodhrán to Xavier Woods.
[crowd] …five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten.
[Barrett] The pursuit of the Intercontinental Championship
is what drives Sheamus.
What happens when he wins? Retirement?
If that's it, I hope he never wins it.
[crowd] One, two, three, four, five,
six, seven, eight, nine, ten.
[Cole] Raucous crowd here tonight in Pittsburgh.
Sheamus is taking everybody out.
[Barrett] Lead boots and granite fists.
It looks like everyone's getting a taste of the medicine.
[Cole] Can you imagine Sheamus and Gunther having a rematch
after their battle at Clash at the Castle last year?
[crowd] …three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten.
[crowd cheers]
[Barrett] Three down, one to go, Sheamus.
[Cole] Is Sheamus closing in on a trip to LA and WrestleMania?
[crowd and Sheamus shouting] Brogue! Brogue!
Brogue! Brogue! Brogue! Brogue!
[Cole] Looking for the Brogue Kick.
Oh, and McIntyre with a Glasgow Kiss.
What you doing, huh? Stealing my spotlight again, huh?
[indistinct conversation]
[Cole] Xavier Woods runs into a boot.
Oh, Claymore.
-Cover by Sheamus and McIntyre. -One, two, three!
-[bell rings] -[crowd cheering]
[Cole] Sheamus hit a Brogue.
McIntyre hit a Claymore.
[Barrett] Got two refs in the ring, Cole.
[indistinct arguing]
[crowd chanting] Triple Threat! Triple Threat!
Triple Threat! Triple Threat!
[Cole] Well, who won?
What's wrong with these people?
[indistinct arguing]
Huh? I told you!
[Cole] Who's going to WrestleMania to face Gunther?
[Barrett] Good luck sorting this mess out.
[indistinct arguing continues]
Well, Adam Pearce sure has a lot to figure out
after that controversial ending.
But speaking of controversy, please welcome my guest.
He serves as special counsel to "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns,
Paul Heyman.
[crowd cheering and jeering]
Paul? So earlier tonight,
I tried to get a word with Jey Uso
about why he did what he did this past Monday night
in turning on Sami Zayn. We saw him attack Sami Zayn.
Do you have any insight that you can share about why his actions were his actions?
Excuse me. Paul?
Do you have any insight that you can share about why Jey did what he did?
I'm sorry, I wasn't paying attention.
Um, this Cody Rhodes is too much, isn't he?
I mean, we get all this criticism
for invoking the names of members of his family.
And what did Cody Rhodes do on Monday?
He got involved in Bloodline business,
and Bloodline business…
is family.
And maybe that's his counterattack.
You know, for almost a thousand days, a thousand days,
Roman Reigns has been the champion.
And every time a new challenger comes along,
The Tribal Chief comes to his special counsel and he says,
"Wiseman, how do we deal with this challenge?"
Do we do it like gangsters? Do we lie and manipulate…
This is my favorite. …and we get inside their head
to where by the time they step in the ring,
you're already a defeated opponent.
Or do we do it with the truth?
Because the truth is, Roman Reigns is the GOAT,
Paul Heyman is the GOAT, The Usos are the GOATs.
And when we are aligned together, The Bloodline cannot be stopped.
And then comes along this-this-this-this Cody Rhodes.
Stylistically, a nightmare for us.
He's like the one guy
I never wanted to see across the ring from Roman Reigns.
And I went to my Tribal Chief and I said,
"What do we do? Gangster? Truth?"
And in his infinite wisdom, The Tribal Chief said to me,
"Wiseman, the most gangster thing we can do to Cody Rhodes
is to smash him with the truth."
Because the truth for Cody Rhodes
is in his past that he couldn't control, that he can't escape,
that will put such emotional baggage on Cody Rhodes
that he never knew existed
that by the time he walks into the ring at WrestleMania…
he'll already be a defeated opponent.
And then…
then, the only story left for Cody Rhodes to tell
will be when he takes his shoulders off the mat
after being defeated by Roman Reigns
and has to pick the time and the place
that he truthfully acknowledges
his "Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns.
[Cole] Well, that right there, an example of why Paul Heyman
has been special counsel for so many
who could be heading into the Hall of Fame in coming years.
What about the 2023 WWE Hall of Fame class?
Up next, we'll reveal the first inductee into this year's class
to be enshrined the night before WrestleMania.
Ladies and gentlemen, we hope you're enjoying SmackDown
here tonight from Pittsburgh. Michael Cole and Wade Barrett.
We wanna remind you that every Sunday on A&E,
it is Superstar Sunday.
We start off this week with Biography Legends
and the incredible story of Kane.
And immediately after that, WWE Rivals,
a look at the epic rivalry
between "The Game" Triple H and "The Animal" Batista.
Here's a sneak peek.
[Cole] Moments ago, Fatal 5-Way Match to determine who goes to WrestleMania
to take on Gunther for the Intercontinental Championship.
Sheamus hit a Brogue. McIntyre hit a Claymore.
One, two, three at the same time.
[Barrett] Synchronized pinning, Cole.
[Cole] What would happen is one official would award the match to Sheamus,
the other to Drew McIntyre.
But who's going to WrestleMania?
-Didn't have to be this way. -Be what way?
-It didn't have to be this way. -You knew exactly what I wanted.
You knew where my heart was.
You knew that Intercontinental Championship was for me.
-Four weeks to Mania. -Four weeks?
[overlapping yelling]
I saved you tonight!
He was coming from behind,
I saved you with a Claymore. You were gonna take the pin.
We should be fighting and having drinks afterwards.
That is an issue that will not be solved over a couple of beers at the pub
because this is about WrestleMania.
Well, WrestleMania has, of course, shaped the careers
of so many Hall of Famers here in WWE.
It's only appropriate the Hall of Fame ceremony
is held the night before WrestleMania in Los Angeles.
Right now, it is our honor to introduce to you
the first inductee in the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2023.
["Wherever I May Roam" by J Balvin]
[announcer] From San Diego, California, Rey Mysterio.
Rey had the capability of igniting any crowd.
[Kofi Kingston] You never wanted to blink
'cause he was gonna do something incredible. That was a guarantee.
[vocalist singing in Spanish]
-[Cole] It's time to dial 619. -[Jerry Lawler] 619!
All that natural charisma.
♪ Anywhere I roam ♪
[Randy Orton] The connection that Mysterio had with his fans
is that they saw the ultimate underdog.
[AJ Styles] He showed it doesn't matter how big, how small you are.
If you got heart, you can accomplish anything.
♪ Oh ♪
[commentator] He got him! He got him!
Mysterio wins the title.
♪ Free to speak my mind anywhere ♪
[Rey Mysterio] I'm living proof that dreams come true in life.
♪ Anywhere I roam ♪
[Cena] Someone would look at Rey Mysterio like, "Impossible!"
To him it's just a word.
[Mysterio] This has been the biggest ride of my life.
[crowd chanting] 619! 619! 619! 619!
619! 619! 619!
[Irvin] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the first inductee
into the WWE Hall of Fame Class of 2023,
Rey Mysterio!
["Booyaka 619" by P.O.D. playing]
♪ 619 ♪
♪ Booyaka, booyaka ♪
♪ That's my, that's my, that's my ♪
♪ Booyaka, booyaka, 619 ♪
[Cole] A standing ovation for the greatest luchador of all time.
[crowd cheers]
♪ That's my pueblo ♪
♪ Booyaka, booyaka, 619 ♪
♪ What you gon' do when we come for you? ♪
[Cole] The biggest little man in the history of the game.
[Barrett] Never a more deserving man to enter the Hall of Fame.
A huge honor for me, personally,
to step in the ring with Rey Mysterio during my career.
[Cole] And tonight, Friday Night SmackDown on FOX
is sponsored by Progressive Insurance.
Save when you bundle auto, home, or motorcycle insurance.
Rey Mysterio is a three-time World Champion.
He won the Royal Rumble match,
the United States Championship, the Intercontinental Championship,
many Tag Team Titles.
-[crowd cheers] -♪ Booyaka, booyaka, 619 ♪
♪ What you gon' do when we come for you? ♪
♪ And we the Southtown generals Diego Don originals ♪
♪ Hitman for hire Made wise guys untouchable ♪
[crowd cheering]
[Cole] And tonight, Rey Mysterio is honored
as he is inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame.
♪ Say a prayer for the livin' ♪
♪ Ask God to take my soul In case I go unforgiven ♪
♪ One shot, two kills You don't believe me now you will ♪
♪ And that's the realest deal, homie Since Jesus' last meal ♪
♪ Booyaka, booyaka, 619 ♪
[crowd cheers]
[crowd chants] You deserve it! [clapping rhythmically]
You deserve it! [clapping rhythmically]
Wow.
You know, this is a moment--
["It Is My Time" playing]
[crowd boos]
♪ Este es el tiempo ahora ♪
♪ Now I'm coming for ya ♪
♪ Ya no pueden conmigo That's why I'm coming for you… ♪
How… How pathetic.
WWE is really going to induct--
You shut your mouths.
WW--
[crowd booing loudly]
WWE is really gonna induct a washed-up old man
into the Hall of Fame, huh?
[crowd booing]
How many birth-- Hey, look at me!
How many birthdays, how many Christmases,
how many Thanksgivings,
how many soccer games did you miss, huh?
All to make this Hall of Fame career.
[booing continues]
You know what?
Rhea was ri-- I-- Mami was right.
I'm ashamed to be your son.
[crowd boos]
["Legacy of the Ghost" playing]
[Cole] Well, finally someone who respects Rey Mysterio,
Santos Escobar,
who's been a supporter and a fan of Rey.
Rey Mysterio, of course, gifting Santos a mask,
one of his own masks, that Dominik ripped up last week.
Your father may have let go of what you did last week,
but I haven't.
Shut up!
[crowd cheers]
Legado Del Fantasma and Judgment Day
are supposed to have a match later tonight.
How about we have it right now?
[crowd cheers]
[no audible dialogue]
Shut up!
-I already beat you. -Whoop your ass, that's what I'm gonna do.
[Cole] Here comes the official to start this six-man tag team matchup.
Finally, somebody may put that punk, Dominik, in his place.
This is family business.
-Exactly. So why are you involved?- -Because lucha libre…
[Cole] Incredible news this week.
The WWE announcing the two-time Grammy Award-winning
global recording artist, WrestleMania performer Bad Bunny
will host Backlash on Saturday, May 6th,
live from San Juan, Puerto Rico.
It's the first time the WWE
will hold a Premium Live Event in Puerto Rico in 18 years.
Bad Bunny saying, "I couldn't go to New Year's Revolution back in 2005,
but I will be hosting Backlash."
This time around, the first Saturday in May.
[narrator] Match Flo is sponsored by Progressive.
A triple threat of protection with home, auto, and more.
[Cole] Dominik Mysterio is gonna get put in his place by Santos Escobar.
And hoping that this will let you create your own legacy.
[bell rings]
[Barrett] Something has snapped inside of Santos.
Do you see that?
Do you respect your legacy?
[spits] No!
[Cole] Dominik has taken over.
[Barrett] We're going prison-style tonight.
[Cole] Mysterio's got brass knucks.
Rhea Ripley with a riptide to Escobar.
Frog splash.
[crowd] One, two, three.
-[crowd boos] -[bell rings]
[Cole] That was gifted to Santos Escobar.
The disrespect by this kid.
Have a cry, Santos.
["Booyaka 619" by P.O.D. playing]
[Cole] Rey Mysterio has had enough.
Hit me.
I'll give it to you if you hit me.
-I'm not going to- -Hit me.
[ominous music playing]
[crowd chants indistinctly]
[crowd gasps]
[Cole] Well, ladies and gentlemen,
this six-man tag team matchup is underway after yet another
pathetic performance by Dominik Mysterio.
Just when you think this kid can't get any worse,
he takes it to a new level. His dad, Rey Mysterio--
And look at this now. Basement dropkick by Finn.
Dominik's dad, Rey Mysterio, came out here tonight
as the first inductee into the Hall of Fame Class of 2023.
He was just about to give a speech, to talk about his career,
and what does Dominik--
He comes out here and he ruins the moment for his father,
making it all about himself again.
[Barrett] Hall of Fame for WWE, Hall of shame for parenting.
It's one thing to be a Superstar here,
have a Hall of Fame career,
but take care of life at home, Rey Mysterio.
[Cole] Well, it's The Judgment Day against Legado Del Fantasma.
There is the aforementioned Dominik Mysterio.
Of course, Finn Bálor and Damian Priest, in this matchup.
Flying elbow. And Dom… Here's the cover now by Priest.
Is it enough to put Del Toro away?
And a kickout. Of course, Dominik's Mami,
and the person I believe
who is as much to blame for all this as Dominik is,
that's Rhea Ripley,
the woman who faces Charlotte Flair at WrestleMania
for the SmackDown Women's Title.
This woman got into Dominik's head and changed his entire life around,
to treat his dad and his family the way that he is.
[Barrett] Changed his life around for the better.
-Dominik Mysterio- -[Cole] No, wait, wait, wait.
Look at this now.
Eddie Guerrero who was an uncle to Dominik growing up.
Now, Dominik, don't tell me he's not mocking
the late great Eddie Guerrero with the Three Amigos there.
[Barrett] Not mocking. That perhaps was a good family member,
unlike his father Rey Mysterio, who was apparently a bad family member.
It's paying tribute to those you respect…
[Cole] What do you know about Rey Mysterio and his parenting skills
and what went on behind closed doors?
[Barrett] About as much as you do, which is absolute zero.
But unlike you, I'm not discounting a firsthand witness statement…
-[Cole] Tag. -[Barrett] …from Dominik Mysterio,
who says that Rey was a dreadful dad.
[Cole] I can tell you from firsthand experience
that Rey was not a dreadful dad, Wade.
Tag made.
[Barrett] You're letting the performer cloud the person.
-[Cole] Tag. -That's your issue.
-You can't separate the two, unlike me. -[Cole] I can.
Tag made again. Frequent tags now by Legado Del Fantasma.
Here's Santos Escobar.
Escobar into the corner and taking out Finn Bálor.
Again, Escobar realizes what Rey Mysterio has meant to this great sport.
[grunts]
[Barrett] Well, I realize what Rhea Ripley has meant for Dominik Mysterio.
-Taking him to whole new levels. -[Cole] Splash by Wilde.
Here's the cover now. Is it enough? A kickout by Finn Bálor.
[Barrett] Many thought Dominik was only in WWE because of his famous father.
Well, it turns out his famous father
was an albatross around the neck of Dominik Mysterio.
[Cole] How do you say that?
Dominik Mysterio is in WWE because of his father.
They became Tag Team Champions, Wade.
The first father-son combination to ever do that.
Rey Mysterio allowed his son to be in the position that he's in today
by being a great parent,
by giving Dominik everything he could give him as he was growing up.
Do you know about Dominik when he was a teenager?
-[Barrett] Yeah, I do. -Dominik as a teenager
had many, many problems.
Rey Mysterio bailed him out of all kinds of situations,
trying to put him on the right path.
[Barrett] We were both in the locker room earlier today, we overheard…
[Cole] Wait a minute. Cover now by Priest, a kickout.
[Barrett] We overheard Rey Mysterio telling somebody
that when Dominik was a teenager,
Rey wanted to kick him out of the house onto the street,
and he was stopped by his own mother.
That's the only reason--
[Cole] To teach him a lesson, Wade. To teach Dominik a lesson.
[Barrett] Throw the kid out on the street, fend for yourself at 15?
That's insanity. It's bad parenting, Cole.
[Cole] At some point, when you grow up,
you have to become responsible for your actions.
Now Dominik in off the tag.
[crowd boos]
You hear the boos from the WWE fans here in Pittsburgh tonight.
Now it's Judgment Day
taking a page out of Legado Del Fantasma's playbook.
Big leg drop by Priest.
-[Barrett] How good is Damian Priest? -[Cole] Cheap shot by Judgment Day.
Judgment Day in control.
Can Legado Del Fantasma get into this
as Rey Mysterio looks on at his pathetic son?
[Cole] We are back live on Friday Night SmackDown,
six-man tag team matchup.
The Judgment Day against Legado Del Fantasma.
Escobar and Bálor, the two legal men in this matchup.
And Escobar ducks underneath the attempted clothesline,
and then he takes out Bálor.
[Barrett] The best all-rounders we've ever seen in WWE.
Santos Escobar looking absolutely on fire now.
[Cole] The tilt-a-whirl backbreaker,
but instead follows it up with a leg drop.
Cover now on Bálor. Hooks the leg. Is it enough to put him away?
A kickout. Friday Night SmackDown on FOX is sponsored by Progressive.
We are live tonight in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Three weeks from tomorrow, the start of WrestleMania weekend,
and that man, Rey Mysterio, will be inducted into the Hall of Fame
the night before WrestleMania.
He was supposed to talk all about it tonight
before being interrupted by his son, Dominik.
Tag. Here comes Dominik Mysterio.
[crowd booing]
Oh, and a step-up enzuigiri. Tag made.
Cruz Del Toro off the top rope.
Legado Del Fantasma so beautiful to watch, aren't they, Wade?
[Barrett] Absolutely. Magicians in that ring.
Del Toro might be the freshest man-- What the hell was that?
[Cole] Is it enough to put away Dom?
Damian Priest says no way.
[Barrett] Just in the nick of time, Damian Priest smartly getting involved.
-[grunts] -[crowd gasps]
Movement of Cruz Del Toro really is something to behold,
saw it time and time again in NXT.
-Legado Del Fantasma running the show. -[Cole] And look at--
Taking out Judgment Day and bouncing off the announce table.
Escobar and company in control.
Meanwhile, look at Zelina Vega! Caught by Ripley…
-[shrieks] -[Cole] And now Zelina.
[Barrett] Ripley just too big, too strong.
[Cole] Oh, nobody home for Del Toro.
Now Rey and Rhea having words out here at ringside. Rhea…
Dominik right into his dad.
[Barrett] Dad was picking on his girlfriend.
[Cole] Off the distraction by Rhea,
Damian Priest gets involved. The official didn't see it.
Trying to keep Rey out of the ring.
Cover now by Dominik.
-And Dominik steals one. -[bell rings]
["It Is My Time" playing]
[Irvin] Here are your winners,
The Judgment Day.
[Barrett] Well, that matchup broke down in a hurry.
What an epic battle it was.
But once again, Legado Del Fantasma figuring out,
you do not mess with Dominik Mysterio.
[Cole] Dominik with a baseball slide to Rey.
Rey was in an argument with Rhea Ripley at ringside.
Now, boom, Damian Priest…
[Barrett] Rey Mysterio had the referee blindsided there.
[Cole] Rey let his temper get the best of him at that point
and it cost Legado the matchup.
-And Rey… -Jefe.
Hey.
[crowd booing]
Why don't you guys shut your mouths when greatness is speaking?
I want to have… I want to have a man-to-man with you, Dad.
I want to have a heart-to-heart with you.
So why don't you guys give me the ring?
-Yeah, I want to talk to him one-on-one. -You good?
-Yeah. I got this, guys. Yeah. -Are you sure?
Yeah, just give me the ring. I got it. Yeah.
Come on, jefe.
I just wanna talk.
Yeah, I just want to talk.
[crowd buzzing]
[crowd chanting] You suck! You suck! You suck! You suck! You suck!
You suck! You suck! You suck! You suck! You suck!
See, the one thing I don't understand
is why the WWE is inducting you into the Hall of Fame
when the only Hall of Fame you deserve to be in…
is the Deadbeat Dad Hall of Fame.
[crowd boos]
Because at the end of the day,
I should have been Eddie's son.
[crowd exclaims]
Take that back, Dom.
-What you gonna do, Dad? -Take that back, son.
-You know you didn't mean that. -No, no, no. You need to hit me.
-No. No, no. Dom. -You need to accept what you did.
Dom, listen to me. Okay? Just listen.
[crowd gasps]
Come on. Come on. You wanna do this?
Come on. Come on. Come on.
It's time. You got to do it.
Let's go! Come on!
[raucous cheering]
[yells indistinctly]
-Whoa, whoa, whoa. -Hey! You can't do that to me!
Relax. Hey, hey, hey.
-I'm the one that matters. -I'm not gonna fight you.
-I don't care what you do. -You will!
-I'm not gonna fight you. -But you will!
-Pathetic! -You got him. It's all right.
-He's in your pocket. He's in your pocket. -["Booyaka 619" playing]
[Cole] I feel for Rey's wife, Angie,
and his daughter, Aalyah,
who just have to…
sit at home and watch this.
♪ That's my pueblo Booyaka, booyaka… ♪
[Cole] Well, one family falling apart,
another family reunited.
Jey Uso yelling at Sami Zayn "family first" last week
when he delivered the shocking superkick Monday night on Raw,
solidifying his bond with his brother Jimmy.
The Usos are reunited live tonight.
[Barrett] As we see, Ricochet, Braun Strowman game planning
because the wrath of the gods has found a new target.
Strowman, Ricochet in for the fight of their lives,
are going to war with The Viking Raiders, next.
[Cole] That's next, but in three weeks, WrestleMania Goes Hollywood.
♪ Wait a minute, wait a minute ♪
["down home" by Jimmie Allen playing]
[Cole] And breaking news tonight, multi-platinum and Grammy-nominated
country singer-songwriter Jimmie Allen
will be performing "America the Beautiful" on WrestleMania Sunday.
♪ It's still where my heart is ♪
♪ This down home kid Is just how you left him ♪
♪ I still hate that you're gone I wish you were here ♪
-[song fades] -[crowd buzzing]
[crowd cheering]
Charlotte Flair. And what can I do for you?
Rough day at work? Or are you not happy to see me?
You know I'm always happy to see the champ. What's up?
-It's WrestleMania season. -Yep.
I want a match. I want any match.
-Tonight? -Tonight.
Okay. Uh… Well, obviously I think I can do that.
Let me see if I can't find you a suitable opponent.
-Thank you. -You are very welcome.
-Hang in there. -[both chuckle]
I'll do my best.
["Monster of All Monsters" playing]
[Cole] Hey, Charlotte wants to fight. You got to like that.
Three weeks from Mania.
[bell rings]
[Irvin] The following contest is a tag team match scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first,
the team of Ricochet and Braun Strowman.
[Cole] Strowman, of course, The Monster of All Monsters.
Ricochet, The Highlight of the Night.
They make a pretty darn good tag team.
[Barrett] This is WWE's answer to a live-action Marvel movie.
Two competitors from completely opposite ends of the superhero spectrum,
but somehow it just works.
[Cole] WrestleMania is sponsored by Snickers.
Snickers satisfies.
And by WWE 2K23.
WWE 2K23 is even stronger.
Featuring the all-new WarGames
and the 2K Showcase where you can play through key moments
over John Cena's 20-year career.
Pre-order today and play as Bad Bunny. Available for early access on March 14th.
Speaking of John Cena,
-did you see Raw Monday night? -[Barrett] Of course I did.
[Cole] We're gonna get John Cena back in the ring at WrestleMania.
Austin Theory.
["Vicious" playing]
[female voice] Valhalla is here.
[Irvin] And their opponents, accompanied to the ring by Valhalla,
at a combined weight of 590 pounds,
Erik and Ivar, The Viking Raiders.
[Cole] You know, Wade, today marks day number 600.
The record-setting Tag Team Championship reign
continuing for Jimmy and Jey Uso,
who we will see live in the ring later on tonight.
But you have to imagine a match like this,
the winner could find themselves maybe in position
to battle for a Tag Team Championship down the road.
[Barrett] Two absolutely top tag teams,
but again, The Usos are simply unstoppable.
Just like their "Head of the Table" Roman Reigns.
You struggle to see how anybody could ever take those championships away,
but that isn't gonna stop teams from trying.
[Cole] Well, Strowman and Ricochet have had their own run-in here
with The Viking Raiders as of late.
[Barrett] Yeah. Fascinating.
Braun and Ricochet fighting Imperium a couple of weeks ago.
Viking Raiders started brawling at ringside with Drew and Sheamus,
when Braun and Ricochet decided for some reason
to get involved and take out The Viking Raiders.
And that has consequences.
[Cole] Ricochet will start things off for the odd couple team.
Ricochet and Strowman against The Viking Raiders.
Ricochet, of course, the high-flyer He's a human highlight reel.
Looking to ground the bigger Erik in this matchup.
Nice side headlock takedown by Ricochet.
[Barrett] Well, now the wrath of the Viking gods
has completely shifted, and they have two new victims in mind.
As far as The Viking Raiders are concerned,
these victims need to be sacrificed at the altar
of "The Viking Priestess" Valhalla.
[Cole] You have to wonder what's going through the mind of Valhalla.
[Barrett] I try not to think about it. I got to be honest with you.
[Cole] Oh, Erik sent flying by Ricochet.
And a knee right to the midsection will stop Ricochet.
Tag made. Here comes Ivar.
[Barrett] You mentioned Valhalla.
She claims to have some sort of telepathic communication with these ancient gods.
I don't know if I actually believe that, but regardless,
Erik and Ivar are certainly drinking the Kool-Aid
and the end result is exactly the same.
[Cole] Yeah. If they believe what she's saying,
then it's obviously helped them, as Ricochet is battling here against Ivar.
How do you stop The Viking Raiders? They're just… They're big. They're strong.
[Barrett] Their tactics are usually twofold.
A combination of brute strength and extreme rage.
You've got to think The Monster of all Monsters
will negate that brute strength,
so extreme rage has to be upped tonight.
[Cole] You're gonna have your opportunity to see Braun Strowman,
the 335-pounder in action.
-Here comes Strowman. -[Barrett] Fool around and find out.
[Cole] Now, Erik sent over the top rope as well,
just like Ivar.
[Barrett] Looked ugly, but with that kind of power, it still worked.
[Cole] And now launching Ricochet into The Viking Raiders.
Are you kidding me?
[Barrett] Can Ricochet survive the raid?
[crowd cheering]
[roars]
[Cole] They are jammed in the PPG Paints Arena
in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania here tonight
for Friday Night SmackDown on FOX.
Big tag team matchup, The Viking Raiders against Strowman and Ricochet,
and the Raiders have taken over.
This is how they did it during the commercial break.
Watch this impact. Boom!
[Barrett] Just a complete 180 in the momentum of this matchup.
There's a sense of inevitability when you get up on The Viking Raiders.
Sooner or later, it's all getting turned around,
and that is where Ricochet finds himself now.
[Cole] They just keep coming at you with that unorthodox offensive style,
the clubbing blows by Erik and Ivar.
[Barrett] It's wanton destruction.
It's a raid and pillage mentality.
And right now, Ricochet has gone from hero to zero
in the blink of an eye.
[Cole] Erik in off the tag
as frequent tags being made now by The Raiders,
former Tag Team Champions. Oh!
Knee by Ivar.
There is nothing pretty-- We talked last match--
Here's the cover now by Erik, and a kickout at two.
We talked about the beauty of Legado Del Fantasma
in the last matchup.
Nothing pretty at all about what The Viking Raiders do in the ring.
[Barrett] They don't need to be pretty, they just need to be effective.
A pair of belligerent Norse savages.
Unmatched barbarity, terror-inducing.
Right now, The Monster knows he needs in this match in the worst way.
-[Cole] Sounds like you like 'em. -[Barrett] I'm very impressed with them.
I'm just glad I'm not in the ring with them.
Watching from a fairly safe distance.
[Cole] Ricochet trying to fight back to his feet.
Trying to create some space here with Erik.
Got to make a tag to Strowman.
The Viking Raiders doing a great job isolating Ricochet from his partner.
I'm gonna break your pretty face.
[grunting]
[Cole] Well, maybe not. Ricochet trying to fight back.
[Barrett] None more gutsy, none more courageous than Ricochet.
[grunting]
But it's just overwhelming brute force.
[Cole] Not quite sure if you wanted to get into a slug fest with Erik however,
but Ricochet looking to pull it off.
-[Barrett] Ricochet is as tough… -[Cole] Oh, what a right!
…and as durable as they come, but he might be out cold.
You want some too?
[indistinct conversation]
Come on.
What?
-You want some too? -Yeah, I do.
[Cole] And now Erik grabbing the leg of Strowman.
It was Ivar however. Sorry about that. As Erik now drives Strowman off the apron.
Oh, what a splash!
That crossbody right into the barricade by Ivar.
[Barrett] This might have just become a two-on-one matchup
in favor of The Viking Raiders.
[Cole] Ricochet trying to counter.
Watch this impact. Boom, into the barricade.
Meanwhile, Ricochet got to the corner,
but Strowman was not there to be able to make a tag. Nobody home.
[Barrett] Well, the tactic is the same for Ricochet.
It's always a case of absorbing punishment,
frustrating opponents, and then tagging in the fresh monster.
That is not an option now. What the hell is this?
[Cole] Gonna try to hoist Erik up on his shoulders,
momentarily able to.
Down goes Ivar.
And Ricochet, cover for the win over The Raiders.
Kickout at two.
[Barrett] What a miracle Ricochet will pull off if he can win this one,
but that miracle just disappeared.
[Cole] Oh!
The sit-out powerbomb for the win,
and Ricochet kicks at two.
[indistinct chatter]
[Cole] Somehow, Wade, Ricochet is staying in this matchup.
[Barrett] It's incredible what he's managing to achieve,
two-on-one against this great heathen army of The Viking Raiders,
but how much longer can this go on?
Let's be realistic here.
Kicking out is just delaying the inevitable.
[Cole] Again, he doesn't have a partner to tag
because Strowman was laid out by Ivar moments ago.
[Barrett] Ricochet has been vocal about how this duo is a human cheat code
due to their unusual strengths when combined,
but it would seem that the code has been cracked by The Viking Raiders.
[Cole] Didn't know you were quite the gamer, Wade.
[Barrett] Oh, I love it, mate. I got a Nintendo Switch.
-Not very good at it. -[Cole] A what?
Ricochet, off the second rope, takes out Erik.
Now can he get to the corner? Can Strowman somehow come back into play?
They're rumbling in Pittsburgh
as The Monster begins to climb the steps to the apron.
[Barrett] The Monster is stirring, and he's not happy.
[Cole] Tag!
[crowd buzzing]
Shoulder tackles by Strowman.
Big boot.
[Barrett] It's payback time.
[Cole] And The Monster of all Monsters is rolling.
Three hundred thirty-five-pound splash.
-[Barrett] That is a lot of mass. -[Cole] Dropkick!
[roaring yell]
[crowd cheering]
[Cole] Hey, Wade. I think there's a train arriving at the station.
Tag made to Ricochet.
Here comes Strowman. Takes out Ivar.
Now looking for Erik.
Oh my goodness!
I believe Valhalla dragged Erik out of harm's way.
[yells]
[Cole] Strowman went flying over the announce table.
And now Valhalla, the hell is she… the hell is she doing?
[Barrett] She is out of her mind.
[Cole] Ricochet looked like he'd seen a ghost.
Now up to the top rope.
[crowd cheering]
With the 450. Nobody home.
-[Barrett] Ivar looking nimble. -[Cole] Bang! What a heel kick.
[Barrett] Out to give Ricochet a taste of his own medicine, perhaps.
[Cole] From the top rope.
He's gonna crush the man!
[crowd exclaims]
One, two, three!
-[Cole] The Vikings with the win. -[bell rings]
["Vicious" playing]
[Irvin] Here are your winners,
The Viking Raiders.
[Cole] Like a train wreck out here.
Strowman went into that freight train around the ring,
went flying over the announce table.
Valhalla put some sort of spell on Ricochet.
[Barrett] Here's the problem with Braun Strowman.
[Cole] Look at Valhalla pulling Erik out of harm's way.
Strowman crashed and burned.
[Barrett] Strowman's got so much mass.
[Cole] But watch this, Wade.
[yells]
[Cole] Valhalla ended up putting some sort of spell or something
on Ricochet, scaring the…
[Barrett] Gives me the creeps, that's for sure.
But how about this from Ivar?
Spinning heel kick followed by some high flying of his own,
crushing Ricochet. Goodnight.
[bell rings]
[Cole] What an impressive performance tonight
by Valhalla and The Viking Raiders.
Gentlemen, can I help you with something?
You were given one very specific task.
That is to identify the next worthy challenger for my title.
Yeah.
Challenger is singular, Mr. Pearce.
Look. English is not my native tongue,
but I know the difference.
Challenger: singular.
Challengers: plural.
Challengers.
Look at you. You lost all authority about your staff.
This dereliction of your duties will not be tolerated.
Look, can we all just take a breath here?
I don't agree with you, but I understand what you're saying,
and I have a solution if you'll hear me out.
Next week on SmackDown, Drew McIntyre is going to face Sheamus one-on-one
and the winner of that match will be the challenger, singular,
for your Intercontinental Championship at WrestleMania.
Good. I'll be watching.
[Cole] Buckle up next week in Kansas City. High stakes.
The drinking buddies, now opponents,
with an opportunity at WrestleMania on the line.
["All Hail the Queen" playing]
♪ Bow down! ♪
♪ All hail the queen ♪
[bell rings]
[Irvin] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first,
she is the SmackDown Women's Champion,
Charlotte Flair.
[Cole] Wade, you've got to love this out of the SmackDown Women's Champion.
-[fireworks popping] -[Cole] Three weeks,
when WrestleMania Goes Hollywood,
Charlotte takes on Rhea Ripley with the title on the line,
but she said she's in a fighting mood tonight.
Who has Adam Pearce chosen as her "suitable opponent"?
We find out live, next on SmackDown.
A revolution started in the WWE
led by every woman to step foot inside the squared circle.
♪ All eyes on me ♪
The Superstars and the headliners.
All of you have inspired people all over the world.
[Becky Lynch] Now we've set the standard, so we have to keep going.
Because it's one thing to get to the top,
and then it's a whole other thing to stay there.
[Stephanie McMahon] What do you say, ladies?
[Cole] Why did Jey Uso decide to kick Sami Zayn's face off on Raw
and reunite with his brother?
Family is always first, according to Jey Uso.
The Usos reunite here tonight on SmackDown.
You look shocked that Great Britain actually has a baseball team.
[Barrett] Trust me, it ain't cricket, is it?
[Cole] Meanwhile, here is Charlotte Flair who will defend
her SmackDown Women's Championship
three weeks away from WrestleMania Goes Hollywood.
Charlotte defends against the winner of the Women's Royal Rumble,
Rhea Ripley.
Who will Charlotte face tonight?
Said she wants a match to get ready for WrestleMania.
-["I Am a Psycho" playing] -♪ I'm a psycho ♪
-[Cole] Here we go.
♪ I'm a psycho ♪
[Irvin] And her opponent, from Oakland, California,
Shotzi.
[Cole] In the Takin' Care of Business Tank,
Adam Pearce said he'd find a suitable opponent,
and he has in Shotzi.
[Barrett] Well, you mentioned how impressed you were
that Charlotte Flair was opening this challenge up
so close to WrestleMania. This might now be backfiring.
I don't know how smart it is stepping in the ring with a loose cannon like Shotzi
this close to WrestleMania.
No telling what kind of things Shotzi is gonna be throwing at you tonight.
[Cole] It's a big opportunity for Shotzi, Wade.
She has an opportunity tonight to perhaps knock off the Women's Champion.
If you win this match, maybe you get a future title match down the road.
[Barrett] That's my point. It's backfiring on Charlotte Flair
by virtue of the fact that, how the hell do you handle a Superstar like Shotzi?
[Cole] Shotzi has nothing to lose, absolutely nothing.
She's playing with house money here tonight against Charlotte.
-[bell rings] -So here we go.
Matchup underway. Charlotte and Shotzi one-on-one.
[Barrett] The flip side of that, I'm not quite sure what Charlotte Flair
is really having to gain from this moment.
[Cole] Well, getting ready. Prove she's a fighting champion.
[Barrett] Sharpening up, yes. Risking injury, hell yes.
[Cole] A great show of sportsmanship between the two.
Again, let's see what Charlotte has
three weeks away from SoFi Stadium
and her defense against "The Eradicator" Rhea Ripley.
Fourteen-time Women's Champion, Charlotte Flair.
Many have called her the greatest ever. Big shoulder tackle.
-[Barrett] That's close to undeniable… -More at WrestleMania, baby.
…at this point.
Just a completely different class since day one when she arrived in WWE.
[Cole] She continues to evolve, grows more confident as the years go by.
Shotzi off the second rope now, and Charlotte Flair sent flying.
Yeah!
[Cole] Again, dangerous match for Charlotte here tonight.
Shotzi could not quite bring Charlotte over.
[Barrett] Dangerous against one of the most erratic Superstars
we have in the Women's division in Shotzi.
[Cole] Nice waistlock takedown by Charlotte.
That's a great way to describe Shotzi. Erratic.
[Barrett] Act first, think later kind of offense.
That's what we've come to know from our green-haired friend.
-[grunting] -[thudding]
[Cole] Cover now by Charlotte again, and a kickout by Shotzi.
What does Charlotte need to do, Wade, to keep the championship at WrestleMania?
This is a different Rhea Rripley she's going up against
than she did three years ago. Big boot by Charlotte.
[Barrett] You're absolutely right. It's a completely different contest,
and I think Charlotte is smart enough to realize that.
Since Rhea joined The Judgment Day, well, the entire--
♪ This is my brutality ♪
-[Cole] Speak of the devil. -[Barrett] Ooh!
[Cole] And I don't say that lightly.
["Demon In Your Dreams" playing]
The winner of the Women's Royal Rumble.
As Charlotte Flair went for the figure-eight,
but off the distraction, Shotzi was trying to pull off a win there.
And Charlotte now, nice German suplex.
[Barrett] What a nasty landing for Shotzi.
[Cole] Into a kip-up. Charlotte in control.
Rhea out here could change the game…
What's up, Charlotte?
[Cole] …as SmackDown rolls on live.
I wanna see what you got.
[Cole] Tonight on Friday Night SmackDown,
Rhea Ripley has wandered out to ringside
to watch Charlotte in this match against Shotzi.
Rhea, the winner of the Women's Royal Rumble,
will face Charlotte for the SmackDown Women's Title
in three weeks at WrestleMania.
[Barrett] Rhea Ripley doing a great job
of getting inside the head of Charlotte Flair.
As you mentioned, three weeks away from that epic matchup
for the SmackDown Women's Championship.
[Cole] As Rhea always says, chaos, always chaos.
And her presence has allowed Shotzi to take over this match.
Cover now. Hook of the leg and a kickout.
[Barrett] Well, we mentioned the erratic nature of Shotzi.
That Kamikaze style offense coming to the fore now.
And right now, Charlotte Flair is finding herself in trouble.
[Cole] We've also talked about the persuasiveness of Rhea Ripley,
the mind games that she's played.
Many believe she has mind control over Dominik Mysterio.
As you see Shotzi end up on the floor.
Now Charlotte, with a big boot, knocks Shotzi down.
[Barrett] What have you got against young love, Cole?
It's a modern-day Romeo and Juliet.
[Cole] You know how that story ended.
Oh! And Shotzi, glancing blow to Charlotte.
-Two! -[woman] Come on, Charlotte!
Three!
[Barrett] Rhea Ripley loving every second of this.
This is Rhea Ripley fronting up,
showing she's not intimidated by anybody.
[Cole] Maybe Rhea should be intimidated by the 14-time Champion Charlotte Flair.
[Rhea Ripley] Shut up, Cole!
[Barrett] I agree with Rhea Ripley.
[Cole] It's my job, Rhea, to talk a little bit.
[Barrett] Start making more sense then, Cole.
Come on, girl.
[Cole] Charlotte with another chop!
And Charlotte Flair starting to rally.
[crowd exclaims]
That could be the fate of Rhea Ripley
in three weeks at SoFi Stadium in Hollywood.
Fallaway slam by Charlotte.
Into a kip-up.
The impressive athleticism of the SmackDown Women's Champion.
[Barrett] This is Charlotte Flair hitting top gear.
[Cole] Oh, and a spear!
[Barrett] Sending a message to the challenger Rhea Ripley.
[Cole] Look on, Rhea. Look on, take notes.
[no audible dialogue]
Rhea!
[Cole] Charlotte Flair with a direct message sent to Rhea.
Bridges into the-- into the--
Trying to bridge, and she finally does, after this tough battle
against Shotzi, who has to tap out.
["All Hail the Queen" playing]
[Irvin] Here is your winner by submission,
the SmackDown Women's Champion,
Charlotte Flair.
[Barrett] What an effort from Shotzi,
but it was this spear that effectively ended the challenge.
Before it was all said and done, the figure-eight.
I don't care who you are, that is game over.
[music fades]
[crowd buzzing]
[man yells indistinctly]
All right, what do you got to say, kid?
[Cole chuckles]
You know, watching you tonight, Charlotte,
just reminded me exactly why I chose you after I won the Royal Rumble.
But, you know, you can wipe that smug look
off of your face because when I look into your eyes,
I don't only see acceptance…
but I see all your insecurities.
[crowd] What?
So at WrestleMania, I'm gonna take the one thing
that makes you feel so important…
[crowd] What?
…when I become the SmackDown Women's Champion.
[crowd jeering]
Not this time. I am sick and tired of--
Hush your mouth.
Your improvement may be something that you're so, so, so proud of,
but I have improved every single day of my life.
[breathing heavily]
Some people love me for it,
others react negatively, but it's a fact.
I want it more…
I will outwork anyone, male or female,
because I take this business, oh-so very seriously.
You're Rhea "Bloody" Ripley.
That means you will rip apart anyone that stands in your way…
That's right.
[man] Yeah!
…except for me.
[microphone thuds on mat]
["All Hail the Queen" playing]
[Cole] Is Rhea Ripley in Charlotte Flair's head like she claims…
or is Charlotte Flair, the SmackDown Women's Champion,
still on top of her game?
We'll find out three weeks away from their battle at WrestleMania.
Well, Jey Uso and his brother Jimmy together again.
Apparently, stronger than ever.
Jey Uso addresses why he did what he did to Sami Zayn,
live, next on SmackDown.
[Cole] And tonight, Friday Night SmackDown on FOX
is sponsored by Progressive Insurance.
Save when you bundle auto, home, or motorcycle insurance.
Tonight Pittsburgh, next Friday night Kansas City.
[Barrett] Yes, indeed. They've been friends for 20 years,
they've been fighting for 20 years.
We couldn't split them this week,
so next week McIntyre and Sheamus go one-on-one live on SmackDown.
The winner gets Intercontinental Champion Gunther
at WrestleMania.
♪ Uso! ♪
["Done With That" playing]
♪ Down since day one ish…♪
[Irvin] Please welcome the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions,
Jimmy and Jey, The Usos.
[Cole] So tonight is day number 600 as Tag Champs for Jimmy and Jey,
but we never thought they'd be together again to perhaps defend the titles.
Roman Reigns told Jimmy Uso,
"Jey better show up, he better rejoin The Bloodline,
or you're gonna be blamed."
We'll take you to Raw this past Monday night
and the moment of truth for Jey Uso
who showed up, went face-to-face with his brother Jimmy in the ring…
and then walked away.
[crowd booing]
The expression on Jimmy's face told the story,
his brother abandoning him…
where Jey would finally join forces with Sami Zayn.
Or so he thought.
You thought I was gonna choose your ass, huh?
[Cole] And as Jey and Jimmy along with Solo would beat down Sami Zayn,
Cody Rhodes did something that he may regret.
Cody Rhodes stuck his nose in The Bloodline's business.
["Done With That" playing]
♪ Yeah, yeah, yeah ♪
♪ Let's go, Uce ♪
♪ Down since day one ish ♪
Pittsburgh!
[crowd cheering and jeering]
The Bloodline is back together,
and The Bloodline is now in your city.
[crowd cheering and jeering]
Yes, sir.
So the big question of the night,
of the whole week…
[crowd buzzing]
Yes. Yes.
[crowd chanting] Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami!
Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami!
Sami! Sami!
Yeah, yeah, yeah, they be like, "Jey, why'd you do it?"
"Why you do it?"
"Why'd you betray Sami Zayn like that?"
Talk to 'em.
[crowd buzzing]
[crowd chanting] Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami! Sami!
[crowd chattering loudly]
Hey, switch roles right quick.
Step in my shoes, Uce.
Let me ask y'all a question.
What would you do?
-[crowd jeering] -Huh?
Hey, what would you do?
Hey, check it out.
One of your family member's cars break down,
you're gonna give them a ride, right?
Hey, they hungry, you might go grocery shopping for them, right?
Hey, their light bill about to get cut off,
you're going to cop that light bill.
You will do anything for your family. What would you do?
-[crowd chattering] -Huh?
Y'all want to know why I did it?
Because I had to.
[crowd booing]
I had to. I didn't want to do it.
I didn't want to do it.
I ain't had no choice.
I never had a choice because he is my blood.
He is my twin. He is my brother. He is my family, not you…
[crowd booing]
Hey, hey, hey! And neither are any of you!
[crowd booing]
Man, y'all want to blame me.
Y'all want to blame me.
You don't know what I go through. You sit in the stands.
You sit in your living room every week, "Oh, they're great."
Y'all don't know what I'm going through here.
There's one person I blame.
[crowd chanting] Sami's family! [clapping rhythmically]
Sami's family! [clapping rhythmically]
There's one person I blame, and that is you, Sami Zayn.
[crowd booing]
I almost left The Bloodline with you.
Boy, you was about to let my brother get clipped.
What was I supposed to do? Hey, you know what your problem is, Sami?
He said it already, Tribal Chief said it already.
You selfish.
[crowd booing]
You selfish!
All you had to do was fall in line.
Huh?
Huh? But you don't know nothing about that
because your ass ain't blood and you never will be.
[crowd buzzing]
[grunts]
So now we done got rid of that Sami Zayn problem,
there's only one more problem to get rid of,
and its name is Cody Rhodes.
[crowd cheering]
Cody, what is your issue?
What is wrong with you?
["Kingdom" playing]
[Rhodes] Wrestling has more than one royal family.
♪ Adrenaline in my soul ♪
♪ Every thought out of control ♪
♪ Do it all to get them off their feet ♪
♪ Crowd is here, about to blow ♪
♪ Waitin' for me to start the show ♪
♪ Out the curtain, lights go up I'm home ♪
♪ Whoa! ♪
[popping explosions]
♪ And my father said, when I was younger ♪
♪ Hard times breed better men ♪
I keep hearing my name.
If you're going to talk about me,
why don't you talk directly to me?
[crowd cheering]
You say that you answer to Roman Reigns.
I don't.
[crowd chanting] Cody! Cody! Cody!
I answer to them.
-[crowd cheering] -Cody! Cody! Cody!
And it sounds like-- it sounds like they don't want to hear us talk.
It sounds like they'd rather see us fight.
[cheering]
Hey, listen, Cody. You take one more step here,
you ain't gonna make it to WrestleMania, son.
[microphone thuds on ground]
Because we're gonna put you on a shelf just like we did Sami Zayn.
[microphone thuds on ground]
[crowd buzzing]
[Cole] And Cody Rhodes obviously not backing down from this fight.
Wait a minute! Sami!
Sami…
[Barrett] Sneak attack payback on Jey, but it's two-on-one.
[Cole] Sami Zayn… And now Cody Rhodes gets into the mix.
And the brawl's underway.
Sami Zayn, from out of nowhere, attacking Jimmy.
Right on top of our announce table.
Cody and Jey fighting out in the WWE fans.
Things spilling over tonight.
[Barrett] They have completely lost control, Cole.
[Cole] Now, Jimmy rushing out to the aid of his brother.
[Barrett] The arms embargo between The Bloodline and Cody Rhodes
has just gone up in smoke.
[Cole] Sami Zayn now in the fight.
Jey sent back into the ringside area.
It is chaos!
[crowd buzzing]
Cody and Sami have cleared the ring.
[crowd cheering]
Finally, officials out here to separate things.
["Kingdom" playing]
But the bottom line here, ladies and gentlemen,
is did Cody make the critical mistake
getting involved in the business of The Bloodline?
♪ Adrenaline in my soul ♪
♪ Every thought out of control ♪
♪ Do it all to get them off their feet ♪
You did what you had to do!
And now I'm gonna do what I have to do! ♪