[WWE signature intro playing]
[John Cena] Then…
[Ric Flair] Woo!
[The Rock] If you smell!
[Cena] Now…
[Reigns] Acknowledge me!
-♪ The king of kings ♪ -♪ You can't see me ♪
[Cena] Forever…
Together.
[crowd cheering]
[Cole] We continue on the road to crowning a World Heavyweight Champion
and the Tribal Chief returns.
What a night live at the University of Tennessee at Nashville.
Tonight, Friday Night SmackDown on Fox in sponsored by Progressive,
a triple a of protection with home, auto, and more.
And, Wade, tonight, the return of "The Tribal Chief."
[Wade] Yes, indeed.
Huge news tonight.
For the first time since WrestleMania,
the Undisputed WWE Universal Champ Roman Reigns returns to SmackDown.
[Cole] Is he here to celebrate or give The Bloodline a pep talk?
♪ You think you know me ♪
[crowd cheers]
["Metalingus" by Alter Bridge playing]
♪ On this day, I see clearly ♪
♪ Everything has come to life ♪
♪ A bitter place and a broken dream ♪
♪ And we'll leave it all behind ♪
♪ On this day, it's so real to me ♪
♪ Everything has come to life ♪
♪ One more chance to chase a dream ♪
[fireworks exploding]
[crowd cheers]
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following is a first-round Triple-Threat Match
in the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament!
Making his way to the ring, WWE Hall of Famer,
"The Rated-R Superstar" Edge!
[Cole] You just saw Edge's kids in the front row
to watch this match live tonight
as Edge takes on AJ Styles and Rey Mysterio
in this first round of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament.
Now, in Raw this past Monday night,
Seth Rollins advanced to the finals as we look at the bracket.
Who will he face two weeks from tomorrow at Night of Champions?
We will find out tonight because the winner for our next matchup
will take on the winner of this match, Wade.
[Wade] Yes, indeed. Another Triple-Threat coming up after this one.
Sheamus, Bobby Lashley, Austin Theory.
The winner of that match
will face the winner of this match in tonight's main event.
All to get the opportunity to take on Seth Rollins at Night of Champions
-and potentially become… -[bell rings]
-…the new World Heavyweight champion. -[Cole] Triple-threat rules.
First man to gain pinfall or submission will win this match tonight.
Edge, Mysterio, and AJ Styles
as they go right after Edge, the 11-time World Champion.
[Wade] Yeah, exactly. Sixteen World Champions.
The championship reigns between these three, obviously,
Edge with 11 of them.
[Cole] Mysterio, underneath.
AJ able to roll through. Edge from behind.
Pinning combination.
Rey Mysterio off the scoop slam.
Hooks the leg and a kickout by Edge.
Oh! And a boot by "The Rated-R Superstar" Edge.
[Wade] Wow, massive levels of career respect
between Edge and Rey Mysterio.
Genuine friends here in WWE.
Less can be said about the relationship between Edge and AJ Styles.
Certainly, have many issues in the past between those two.
[Cole] You know, it was 12 years ago that Edge retired
and relinquished the World Heavyweight Championship.
He was never beaten for that title.
Would love the opportunity to win the World Championship back
as Mysterio hangs Edge up on the top rope.
And now, the former two-time WWE Champion, AJ Styles
looks to take Edge up over the top.
Mysterio goes face-first.
AJ Styles looks to send Edge…
-[groans] -…on to Mysterio.
[Wade] You're right. It's become something of an obsession for Edge
to win back that championship he never lost in 2011.
This could be it.
[Cole] And Edge off the Edge-- oh!
Off the Edge-o-Matic, that inverted DDT,
almost put AJ Styles away.
[Wade] Now, take another look at this.
Just Edge taking control early on in this matchup.
Almost getting the early win.
[Cole] Edge, of course, at WrestleMania.
Was involved in the hellacious Hell in a Cell Match
with Finn Bálor on that night in Los Angeles.
[Wade] What a gory matchup.
That ended up with Edge victorious.
Real head of steam he's building up in this Indian summer in his career.
[Cole] Edge now dropping Rey Mysterio to the floor.
Edge, a Hall of Famer.
We mentioned an 11-time champion.
He's won the King of the Ring,
the Royal Rumble on two different occasions.
The inaugural Money in the Bank Ladder Match winner.
-[Wade] The man has done it all… -[Cole] Styles!
…but AJ Styles takes a backseat to nobody.
[Cole] That sliding forearm by AJ.
[Wade] Just think of the accomplishments between these three.
Put those to one side.
A combined in-ring experience of 90 years.
Nine-zero between these three.
That is absolutely ludicrous.
[Cole] A Tilt-a-Whirl Backbreaker by Styles.
Edge telegraphing.
AJ trying to take advantage, knocking Edge up over the top rope.
Remember, no count-outs or disqualifications in this matchup.
[Wade] You just know there are going to be such thin margins in this matchup.
It really is not going to be a decisive victory for any of these three.
It's going to have to be something quick.
[Cole] That floating Hurricanrana by Mysterio takes down AJ Styles
and now Rey, the biggest little man in the history of WWE
using his quickness to take control.
Mysterio, of course, a long history with Edge.
Tag Team partners.
Remember, Dominik turning his back on Rey and Edge
when they were a team back at Clash at the Castle.
[Wade] We've already seen in this matchup the nature of these Triple-Threats.
-The second you get one opponent down… -[Cole] Oh!
[Wade] …the other opponent stands up and is ready to take control.
[Cole] Rey went for the Springboard Crossbody.
It was caught by Edge.
And Edge now with the Fallaway Slam to Mysterio.
[Wade] Edge digging deep in the playbook.
[crowd cheering]
[Cole] Edge returning, of course, to Friday Night SmackDown
as did AJ Styles in the WWE draft a couple of weeks ago.
Edge went for the Spear and both AJ and Mysterio met him.
Alliance did not last long, however.
Every man for himself here tonight.
Rey, down goes Edge for the win
to advance to our main event and a kickout.
[Wade] This is really the first match back after a long injury layoff for AJ Styles.
You always really want to ease yourself back into things.
Get a couple of easy wins.
-No such chance for AJ. -[Cole] Yeah.
[Wade] Straight in at the deep end.
[Cole] But, Wade, nothing about AJ Styles and his career has been easy.
He's worked hard for everything he's accomplished.
[Wade] Undoubtedly, but how's the ring rust tonight, AJ?
How's the ring wind?
You can get on the treadmill, you can go running
but there is nothing like in-ring cardio.
[Cole] Oh!
[Wade] And I'll say this, AJ looks pretty sharp.
This match continues as AJ takes control.
[Cole] Who heads to our main event later on tonight?
Now, we're back live on Friday Night SmackDown on Fox.
This is a Triple-Threat Match in the first round
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament.
AJ Styles with Rey Mysterio here.
Edge is also involved in this match.
[Wade] Rey Mysterio fighting for his life,
now in a precarious position on the ring.
[Cole] Oh! Edge with a Double Spear off the apron
and all three men are now down!
[Wade] Edge took a heavy landing in the process on that one.
[Cole] You see the official checking on the combatants
as you take another look at the impact by Edge.
-[Edge grunts] -[crowd cheers]
[Wade] Edge putting his own body on the line in pursuit of victory.
[Cole] Cover by Edge!
Hook of the leg and a kickout.
Again, the winner of this Triple-Threat advances
to take on the winner of our other Triple-Threat tonight
at our main event later on tonight.
As we take a look at some of the action
between Styles, Mysterio, and Edge during the commercial break.
[Wade] Just has been three competitors getting battered from pillar to post
from the beginning of this matchup
and you've got to think to yourself, you want to win tonight,
you want to go through the semifinal later on this evening?
You really have to be an iron man this evening.
[Cole] And there goes Edge sent out of the ring.
You know that Seth Rollins, who advanced to the finals
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament
from Monday Night Raw is looking on.
He will face the winner of tonight's tournament
two weeks from tomorrow
at Night of Champions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Oh! And a step-up enziguri by Rey.
[Wade] Seth Rollins was very beat up at the end of Raw.
He was hoping the exact same for these competitors tonight.
He wants them softened up ahead of Night of Champions.
[Cole] Roll through, looking for the Calf Crusher, the submission move.
Mysterio center of the ring now.
Remember, ropes won't cause a break because there are no disqualifications.
Will Mysterio tap out to the Calf Crusher by AJ Styles?
-[Wade] Whoa! -[Cole] Edge now.
-[Wade] Crossface! -[Cole] Edge into the ring.
[Wade] But who wins if he taps out here?
[Cole] Both men with the submission applied on Mysterio.
And that's a great question, Wade.
As AJ Styles delivers a headbutt.
Edge keeps the Calf Crusher on momentarily.
Rey Mysterio, however, able to roll free.
[Wade] Well, Edge was Rey Mysterio's savior there.
Of course, if Rey had tapped,
Edge indeed would've also lost out on this matchup.
Fighting for their lives.
These competitors running on fumes now.
[grunting]
[grunts]
[Wade] This is breaking down, turning into a savage affair.
[Cole] Edge now with the waistlock and look at Mysterio now.
Hurricanrana sends both men into 619 position.
[crowd cheering]
[Cole] And a double dropkick by Edge and AJ
stopped Mysterio in his tracks.
[Wade] Yeah, a little too wise to that move by now.
Both have been on the receiving end too many times.
[Cole] Everybody down.
Who's going to dig down deep
to advance to the semifinals later on tonight?
[Wade] And I wondered how focused could Rey be with this opportunity.
Back of his head, perhaps anticipating some family issues
as we've seen time and time again from Dominik Mysterio
over the past few weeks.
[Cole] One of the largest crowds that we've ever had here for WWE
at the University of Tennessee
and are they in for quite the show here tonight for Friday Night SmackDown.
Mysterio dropkicked Styles.
[Wade] Styles tried his best to ride that dropkick.
Just about taking the majority of the sting out of it.
[Cole] Edge with the kick to the face.
Styles driven face-first into the turnbuckle.
[Wade] Almost decapitated in the process.
That might be it for AJ Styles.
Now's the time, Edge.
You want to win it, this is your opportunity.
[Cole] Edge trying to drag himself up to the top rope.
Mysterio will meet him there.
[Wade] You just look at the mess
that these three competitors are already in.
One of these three is going to have another fight later on
-in tonight's main event in the semifinal. -[Cole] A Triple-Threat Match.
The second one tonight coming up in a matter of minutes
here on Friday Night SmackDown. Mysterio up top rope.
What's he going to do with Edge? AJ Styles back up as well.
Now, Mysterio sent flying by Styles off the powerbomb
and a kickout by Mysterio at two.
This is what an opportunity to fight for the brand-new
World Heavyweight Championship is all about.
[Wade] How badly do you want it, gentlemen?
They've all been to the top of the mountain before.
They've all tasted that glory.
Man, what an addiction it must be.
[grunts]
[Cole] Rey Mysterio now with a shot to the spine.
[Wade] Once again, just no time to plan.
No time to strategize.
Take a beat and your third opponent in the match is in there--
[Cole] Oh my goodness! Mysterio turning things around.
Cover now on Styles for the win to advance
and AJ's got to kick at two.
[Wade] Rey in disbelief.
"What do I have to do just to progress to the semifinal?"
[Cole] Just innovative offensive style of Rey Mysterio
that has shocked the world for years and years
and the reason that he's part of the WWE Hall of Fame.
[Wade] The ultimate underdog looking to upset the odds once again.
[Cole] Again, went for the 619
and AJ Styles thwarting Mysterio this time.
AJ loading up for the Phenomenal Forearm.
Edge back to his feet.
Styles launching himself. Edge ducks underneath.
-Went for the Spear. -[crowd gasps]
Mysterio takes out Styles.
619!
-[Wade] Denied! -[Cole] Intercepted!
Edge stepping through, looking for the Edgecator.
[groaning]
[Cole] The Edgecator locked in.
-[Wade] Desperately-- -[Cole] Is Mysterio going to tap?
[Wade] Desperately needs Mysterio to tap out.
Keeping an eye on AJ Styles.
Needs that tap before AJ gets his bearings.
[Cole] Styles trying to drag himself over to Edge.
Edge able to break it up. Smart move by Edge.
[Wade] Cutting off at the pass and here's an Edgecator for you.
[Cole] Edge now with the Edgecator locked in to Styles.
Is Styles going to tap?
Is Edge going to advance to the semifinals?
[Wade] Locked in, nowhere to go.
Desperately trying to make those ropes.
That makes no difference in a Triple-Threat Matchup, AJ.
[Cole] Rey Mysterio, 619 to Edge!
[crowd cheers]
[Wade] At the third time of asking, 619 connects.
Can Rey finish the job?
[Cole] Mysterio goes up to the top rope.
Rey, with the--
Right to the back of Edge's neck, or did Edge--
-[Wade] Edge attempted a Spear. -[Cole] Wait a minute.
Styles with a Phenomenal Forearm!
-Cover on Edge! Hook of the leg! -One, two, three!
-Styles advances to the semifinals! -[bell rings]
[announcer] Here is your winner,
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles!
[Wade] Wow, what a matchup.
In the closing seconds, I think Edge attempted a desperation Spear.
Had very little in it.
Just enough to take Rey Mysterio off his feet
but there ready to pounce with a Phenomenal Forearm.
AJ Styles, take a look at this, Cole.
[Cole] AJ Styles with his signature move putting Edge away.
-[crowd cheers] -[bell rings]
[Cole] Now, AJ Styles advances to our semifinal later tonight.
He will take on the winner of the Triple-Threat Match
that is coming up in a matter of moments here on Friday Night SmackDown
between Sheamus,
the United States Champion Austin Theory,
and Bobby Lashley.
What a performance tonight, Wade, by one AJ Styles.
Well, I was concerned about the ring wind, about the polish of AJ
after such a long time off.
Forget that, he looks razor-sharp
and ready for the semifinal later on tonight.
We have another Triple-Threat later on tonight.
We have a Women's Tag Team Championship Match
and the return of Roman Reigns, the Undisputed Champion.
Bloodline has had some problems as of late.
Let's take it back to WrestleMania.
The main event of night one in Los Angeles.
Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn looking to break the record reign
as Tag Team Champions of Jimmy and Jey Uso.
And Sami Zayn would utilize not one…
[crowd cheering]
…not two…
but three Helluva Kicks
to finally put The Usos away.
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn win the Undisputed Tag Team Titles
and a couple of weeks ago, Wade, right here on Friday Night SmackDown,
we would have the WrestleMania main event rematch.
This is a match where The Usos pre-dedicated a victory
to their "Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns.
Unfortunately, just when things started looking good,
they did a 180.
All of a sudden, it's like déjà vu all over again for The Usos.
Helluva Kick, one, two, three.
[Cole] But the question would be,
could The Bloodline get back on the winning track?
Let's take you to Backlash in our Progressive Match Flo.
[announcer] Match Flo is sponsored by Progressive,
a Triple-Threat of protection with home, auto and more.
[Cole] The story of The Bloodline
is to prove to "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns,
that we can get the job done,
but where does Solo Sikoa stand in all of this?
[Graves] WWE Universe firmly behind the trio of Zayn, Owens, and Riddle.
[Cole] Naysayers claim that we'll see the implosion of The Bloodline
sooner rather than later.
Jimmy took out his own brother!
Kickout at two.
Solo Sikoa done with the games.
I got him.
[Cole] And the argument between the family may cost The Bloodline.
Solo Sikoa saving the matchup.
[crowd cheering]
Get off me, bro! You going to hit me?
I'm your bro, not him!
I'm your bro.
[Cole] Tag.
Riddle now legal.
Tag. Sikoa's legal. Riddle has no idea.
Now he does with the Samoan Spike!
[crowd] Uno, dos, tres!
[bell rings]
[Cole] Did The Bloodline do enough for "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns
or did the cracks become major rifts?
[Cole] And there are The Usos here at Friday Night SmackDown
because for the first time since WrestleMania,
the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns returns.
Is "The Tribal Chief" here to celebrate
or is he here to give The Usos a pep talk?
["Hellfire" by CFO$ plays]
[Cole] Meanwhile…
indeed, tonight is Fight Night!
-[explosion] -[crowd cheers]
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following is a first-round Triple-Threat Match
in the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament!
Introducing first, accompanied by the Brawling Brutes,
from Dublin, Ireland, and weighing 267 pounds,
Sheamus!
[Cole] And tonight, Friday Night SmackDown on Fox
is sponsored by Progressive Insurance.
Save when your bundle auto, home, or motorcycle insurance.
Who faces AJ Styles in the semi-finals
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament later tonight?
We find out.
Massive Triple-Threat live next.
[Wade] After Bianca Belair's victory at Backlash
has made her the longest reigning women's champion of the modern era,
"The EST of WWE"
returns to her hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee
to celebrate that historic reign later on, tonight.
["All Mighty" plays]
[fireworks exploding]
[announcer] Next, weighing in at 273 pounds.
"The All Mighty"
Bobby Lashley!
[Cole] Two big bruising brawlers ready for action.
Lashley, who's come over to SmackDown in the WWE draft
and The Celtic Warrior.
["A-Town Down" plays]
♪ A-Town Down! Screamin' out loud ♪
♪ A-Town Down! The future's right now ♪
♪ A-Town Down! Tearin' the place down ♪
♪ A-Town Down! Like my next sound ♪
♪ You see the future Right in front of your eyes ♪
♪ Headin' to the top But it's not a surprise ♪
♪ Not in my eyes Knew it and dreamt it as a child ♪
♪ A-Town Down! ♪
-[grunts] -[fireworks explode]
[announcer] And their opponent from Atlanta, Georgia.
Weighing in at 220 pounds.
He is the United States Champion,
Austin Theory!
[Cole] Mr. Theory would love to add
the World Heavyweight Championship to his trophy case
to join his current United States title.
[Wade] Well, this is the only competitor left in the entire field
who has never previously been a World Champion.
But he's young, he's cocky, he's successful,
and most of all, extremely talented.
No wonder this audience hates him.
[Cole] So, it's Theory, Lashley, and Sheamus.
Triple-Threat rules.
Just like our first match of the night,
first man to gain pinfall or submission will win,
to advance to the semi-finals later on tonight against AJ Styles
in our main event of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament.
You mentioned both Lashley and Sheamus have been World Champions before.
Sheamus reminding everyone
that he once won the world title at WrestleMania…
-[bell rings] -…in 18 seconds in a tweet earlier today.
[Wade] It's going to take a lot more than 18 seconds
to get that gold championship back around his waist.
[Cole] And Lashley, of course, has a long history with Austin Theory.
Battled Theory and Bronson Reed at Backlash for the United States title.
Now, Sheamus and Lashley looking to turn this
into a one-on-one match pretty quickly.
Theory trying to find some rest in the corner
but Lashley makes sure that doesn't happen.
And now, Lashley with a swinging neckbreaker.
[Wade] Well, the last matchup was a technical affair.
Expect this one will be pure bruiser from start to finish.
[Cole] Rolling senton by Sheamus.
And Lashley going to follow things up with a clothesline
-that knocks Theory out of the ring. -[Wade] Teeing off.
Poor Austin Theory.
The outside of the ring might be the safest place
for that young man right now.
[Cole] Austin Theory continues to claim
that the future is now in WWE.
[Wade] Well, if the future is now,
that is going to be your World Heavyweight Champion
when all is said and done.
[Cole] Meanwhile, Sheamus with Lashley up on his shoulders.
Lashley now. Face-first goes Sheamus!
[Wade] I'll tell you this, the man every competitor in this tournament
wanting to avoid this early on was Sheamus.
-[groans] -[Wade] You have to be an iron man tonight
if you're going to get the job done.
That gets significantly more difficult
if Sheamus beats you to a pulp in the first round.
[Cole] What about the pickup of Bobby Lashley in the WWE draft
by Friday Night SmackDown?
[Wade] Perhaps my favorite selection of all here on Friday Night.
You take one look at Bobby Lashley,
every man on the planet wishes they were a bit more like The All Mighty.
[Cole] Bobby Lashley though, runs into Sheamus
who plants him with a slam
looking to advance to the semi-finals and a kickout.
Again, Seth Rollins from Monday Night Raw,
looking on tonight, watching this matchup.
He faces the winner of tonight's tournament in the finals
in two weeks from tomorrow at Night of Champions in Saudi Arabia.
[Wade] Seth is loving every shot, every bruise,
every pummeling that these competitors take.
No matter who wins, he wants them as beat up as possible.
Sheamus perhaps one of the most physical men in the history of WWE
and showing Bobby Lashley why,
and Lashley might be about to witness
or feel the 10 Beats of the Bodhrán.
Austin Theory, though, runs into Lashley as Sheamus sidesteps.
[Wade] Well, smart is Sheamus, eyes in the back of his head.
Wow, that could be a KO. Oh, no.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd] One, two, three, four, five,
six, seven, eight, nine, ten!
-[crowd cheers] -[Cole] 10 Beats of the Bodhrán.
Sheamus in control.
Who's headed to the semi-finals
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament?
Well, this matchup got very physical during the commercial break.
The fight has spilled outside the ring.
Again, no disqualifications, no count-outs.
Triple-Threat rules. Lashley, Theory, Sheamus.
First man to gain pinfall or submission advances to the semi-finals later tonight
to take on AJ Styles
in the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament.
[Wade] We could've had all three members disqualified
and counted out several times at this point in the match.
And what a physical affair this one has been.
Referee Jessika Carr admonishing Bobby Lashley,
but not much she can do with a no-disqualification in place.
[Wade] All within the rules,
and Bobby Lashley, the veteran in this matchup, knows it full well.
[Cole] Sheamus and Lashley, and what a brawl they were having.
These two men already don't like each other
and Lashley just joined the blue brand.
[Wade] Ooh-hoo.
I want this.
[indistinct chatter]
-[Cole] And you're going to get it. -[Wade laughs]
[Cole] Lashley and Sheamus exchanging blows.
[Cole] Oh, I know what this feels like.
It feels like hell on earth.
[Cole] From both men, right?
[Wade] Undoubtedly. I've never taken a shot from Lashley.
It just looks like it hurts so bad.
[Cole] Lashley-- Oh! And knocks down Sheamus.
And The All Mighty taking control.
[Wade] Very rarely does somebody win a physical war with Sheamus,
but The All Mighty might just-- Oh! Don't speak too soon.
[Cole] Double boots to the face knocked Lashley down.
[Wade] Ah, duke it out with Sheamus and you are hurting for weeks afterwards.
You beat him and somehow
you're supposed to compete again in 30 minutes?
[Cole] Sheamus, top rope.
Tremendous core strength caught through by Lashley.
Nice throw by Bobby.
[Wade] Whoever wins this matchup,
it's already advantaged AJ Styles in tonight's semi-final.
[Cole] Looking for the Hurt Lock, the submission move.
Austin Theory, though!
With a drop kick breaking things up.
And now the current United States Champion with a Chop Block to Sheamus.
[Wade] Mind-blowing athleticism.
Let the two big boys beat the hell out of each other.
[Cole] Cover by Theory. Breaking things up is Lashley.
[Wade] Still razor-sharp is this freak of nature, Bobby Lashley.
[Cole] Lashley sends Theory into the corner.
Bobby, a former two-time WWE Champion.
Oh, what a Blockbuster by Theory!
Cover now to advance.
And Sheamus breaking things up.
A man as big as Austin Theory
has no right being as explosive and as athletic as he is,
but this is what I like about Theory.
This is what he's developing, that cutthroat approach.
[Cole] Theory, tremendous athleticism.
[Wade] It's just a ludicrous jump,
nobody should be able to get that high.
[Cole] Wade, he has all the tools,
there's no doubt, the current United States Champion.
[Wade] Yeah, undoubtedly,
we all know what a big future Austin Theory has.
It's just a question of how quickly is that future going to come about.
[Cole] I think pretty quick. He's already the US Champ.
As he drives Lashley into the steel steps.
He's also a former Money in the Bank Ladder Match winner is Austin Theory.
[Wade] Well, this is the point, Austin Theory needs to smell blood.
[Cole] Austin caught by Sheamus. Again, the power!
Irish Curse Backbreaker by The Celtic Warrior.
[Wade] Just cannot take a beat like that, Austin Theory,
when you're in there with somebody as credentialed,
-as talented as Sheamus. -[Cole] Oh, wait.
A Hall of fame resume, Wade.
Four-time World Champion, US Champion, Tag Champ,
King of the Ring, Money in the Bank winner,
Royal Rumble winner.
Sheamus has done it all.
[Wade] Now, he's got that look in his eye.
Bloodthirsty.
[Cole] Sheamus with a couple of clotheslines.
[Wade] Sheamus with a taste for the gold.
It's getting a little bit closer.
[Cole] Austin Theory now with Sheamus on his shoulders.
Sheamus is going to try to climb up at least to the second rope.
[Wade] When the stakes are this high, you got to go big, Cole.
Sheamus
with White Noise!
[Wade] Can he make the cover? Here we go.
[Cole] Hook of the leg on Theory for the win.
And Theory kicks out at two. Our match continues.
[Wade] I'm telling you, if gold was not on the line here,
that would've finished Austin Theory off.
That drive, that desire he has
to join the immortals on the top of the mountain
is the only thing that got him kicking out.
[Cole] Bobby Lashley has not been back into this matchup
after being driven into the steel steps by Austin Theory.
So for this moment, it is one-on-one between Sheamus and Theory
for an opportunity to head to the semi-finals later tonight.
Theory rolls through, shoulders down on the Celtic Warrior
who's got a kickout.
[Wade] Lashley is in a bad way and so is Austin Theory after that.
It surely has to be Sheamus' for the taking.
[Cole] Sheamus looking for an opportunity
to get to AJ Styles later tonight
and maybe win another World Championship down the road.
Looking for a Brogue Kick.
Spear by Lashley who explodes back into the matchup!
Driven shoulder-first to the post.
Austin Theory now looking to steal a win.
Much like he did at Backlash, but a kickout by Sheamus.
[Wade] Just when you think Bobby Lashley is dead and buried.
Medical staff checking on him. I'd written him off, but no,
The All Mighty has made a special stop.
-But here we go! -[Cole] Theory with Lashley up top!
Was looking for the A-Town Down,
but Bobby Lashley,
what a one-arm slam!
[Wade] Lashley looking worse for wear. Finish this one quick.
[Cole and Wade] Hurt Lock!
[Cole] Theory tried to use the ropes to his advantage,
but they won't cause any type of break.
Sheamus, Brogue Kick!
-[Wade] Perfect from Lashley! -[Cole] Cover!
[crowd] Two! Three!
-[Cole] Lashley advances to face Styles! -[bell rings]
[announcer] Here's your winner, "The All Mighty"
Bobby Lashley!
[Cole] Bobby Lashley showing the wounds from this physical battle,
but Lashley wins.
Later tonight, in our main event,
the semi-finals of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament.
Lashley, Styles, for the opportunity
to battle Seth Rollins at Night of Champions.
[Wade] Wow. Unbelievable.
Still to come tonight.
The return of "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns to SmackDown.
Is he here to celebrate with The Bloodline
or perhaps read them the riot act?
We'll find out very soon on SmackDown.
[Cole] It is our main event set for later on tonight.
The semi-finals of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament.
AJ Styles versus Bobby Lashley.
The winner advances to Night at Champions two weeks from tomorrow
to meet Seth Rollins for the new World Heavyweight Championship.
Ecstatic. I mean, think about it.
AJ Styles and Bobby Lashley, two former World Champions
and the winner goes to Night of Champions. It couldn't have worked out any better.
-What a main event. -Pearcey!
I'll call you back. Grayson Waller.
Grayson, congratulations on getting drafted to SmackDown.
If anything, SmackDown should be congratulated for drafting me.
Even though it was a little bit late.
But that's okay because I know how you can make it up to me.
Whoever wins tonight, AJ Styles or Bobby Lashley,
you put them in the hot seat next week on the SmackDown premiere
on my talk show, The Grayson Waller Effect.
Now that's viral, right?
You know what, Grayson,
-I think that's a hell of an idea. -Yes.
Next week, it's official.
I love it. I can get used to Fridays. Yeah.
[Wade] Oh, God.
Grayson Waller with a mic is the stuff of nightmares.
Trust me.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, weighing 285 pounds,
Baron Corbin!
[crowd boos]
[Cole] Well, Baron Corbin let himself this matchup
after calling Cameron Grimes "Mr. Irrelevant"
because Grimes was the last pick in the WWE draft.
["To the Moon" playing]
[announcement] And his opponent from Burlington, North Carolina,
weighing 220 pounds, Cameron Grimes!
[Wade] Now, I have been excited for this all week.
This is a mainstay of NXT for the past three years.
Known for his massive personality, sneaky athleticism,
he knows he's a career underdog,
but his secret weapon is his unbridled passion, his heart.
And that drives him to out-compete bigger Superstars.
But he's got his work cut out tonight against Baron Corbin.
Well, well, well. Look, everybody. It is Cameron Grimes.
SmackDown's very last pick in the draft.
Look, I'm surprised you showed up.
That takes guts, and I get it.
You're trying to make a name for yourself, but understand this,
in about two minutes, you're going be flat on your back
wishing you were back in NXT. [laughs]
[crowd booing]
-[bell rings] -[Cole] Tough words by Baron Corbin.
-Matchup underway! -[Wade] Cave-in!
[Cole] Grimes with a cave-in! Cover!
-Grimes wins his debut in seconds! -[bell rings]
[crowd cheering]
[announcer] Here is your winner, Cameron Grimes!
[Wade] One chance, one opportunity.
That is all Cameron Grimes has ever asked for
and didn't he make it count tonight?
[Cole] We talk about how Cameron Grimes is enterprising.
[Cole] Boy, oh boy.
Grimes shocking everyone tonight with a win over Baron Corbin
as Corbin's downfall and fallout continues.
And speaking of fallout continuing, that's what's going on for Cody Rhodes
after his match with Brock Lesnar last week at Backlash.
[Rhodes] I had the daunting task of competing against The Beast.
And here is what I discovered.
I discovered what Brock Lesnar is made of
because it was literally all over my fist.
I discovered that Brock Lesnar can be defeated
because at Backlash, I beat Brock Lesnar.
[intense music playing]
[Rhodes] Now that Brock Lesnar is thankfully in the rearview mirror,
it is very clear what is next for me.
It is the World Heavyweight Championship.
[Graves] Cody is feeling it.
Cross Rhodes!
Can Cody Rhodes put away The Miz?
Wait-- What the hell?
Brock Lesnar!
F5 to Cody Rhodes!
[thudding]
Look at this face!
[Lesnar] Do you want to take credit for this, Cody?
I want to fight!
Night of Champions.
Who is the coward now?
[ominous music playing]
[Cole] I am not sure that even Cody Rhodes
is ready for what is waiting for him
two weeks from tomorrow at Night of Champions.
Rhodes goes into the ring with an extremely angry Beast.
Rhodes, Lesnar, two weeks from tomorrow in Saudi Arabia.
["Head of the Table" plays]
[crowd cheering]
[announcer] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
special counsel, The Wiseman, Paul Heyman,
Solo Sikoa, Jimmy and Jey, The Usos,
and the Undisputed WWE
Universal Champion,
Roman Reigns!
[fireworks exploding]
[Cole] Paul Heyman was glancing back at the World Heavyweight Championship,
that is the title The Bloodline claims is a consolation prize
because for 985 days, Roman Reigns has ruled WWE,
and The Tribal Chief is live next.
[Cole] Knoxville, Tennessee is the home of the Raw Women's Champion Bianca Belair.
She was an all-American in track and field right here at the University of Tennessee.
And tonight, Bianca Belair returns for a championship celebration
live on SmackDown on Fox.
And tonight, Friday Night SmackDown is sponsored by Progressive.
It is time to acknowledge "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns.
[fireworks exploding]
[Heyman] Oh, my Tribal Chief.
[music fades]
[crowd cheers, boos]
It's all yours, my Tribal Chief.
[crowd booing]
[indistinct dialogue]
They're gonna love it.
Knoxville, Tennessee.
[crowd cheers]
Acknowledge me.
[crowd cheers]
[crowd] Roman! Roman! Roman!
You see, that's what greatness garners.
It garners respect.
But regardless of reactions or not,
this is one thing that must be respected.
There's a lot of talk about royal families
and families of importance in the wrestling business,
but let's be honest here, there's only one.
[crowd yells] What?
Every man in this ring…
[crowd yells] What?
Every man in this ring main evented both nights of WrestleMania.
[crowd yells] What?
And I know you're probably saying,
"Well, we've only been doing two nights for so long,"
but let's just say this,
we're the only ones that will ever main event both nights at WrestleMania.
[crowd cheering]
And the success, it doesn't stop there,
we just kept pushing along into Backlash.
Even when The Tribal Chief isn't there, somebody's got to step up.
-That's right! -[crowd yells] What?
And who stepped up this time, huh?
Solo stepped up.
I got to tell you…
there was a little concern when we first got Solo up here on the road
because, let's be honest,
he's in the ring with some of the best of all time.
Well, excuse me, not some of the best, the very best of all time.
And when you get thrown into the deep end, you can either sink or you can swim,
and let's be honest, Solo swims like a shark.
If there's ever a problem, he eliminates it.
Look at the Riddle problem. Handled, right?
Of course!
[Solo speaks indistinctly]
What?
KO and-- [chuckles]
This is how good he is. He's still thinking about KO and Sami.
He's still concerned with the KO and Sami problem.
Solo… [chuckles]
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn…
[crowd chanting] Sami! Sami! Sami!
Don't worry about that. Don't-- [stammers]
Don't worry about that. Trust me, they're not a problem.
Sami and Kevin aren't a problem.
They're not the problem.
But there's a problem, you understand? There is a real problem.
There's an actual problem.
But it's not Sami and Kevin, no.
The problem…
are your brothers.
[crowd exclaims]
What'd y'all think was going to happen, huh?
You thought you're just going to lose in the main event of WrestleMania
and we weren't going to talk about it?
You thought that you was going to beg for a rematch
and then, for whatever reason, you dedicate it to me…
and then you lose?
You dedicate a match to me and then you lose?
I'm not even a tag--
Why are you dedicating a Tag Team victory
to someone who's not even in a tag team?
I'm the greatest singles champion of all time,
I'm not in a Tag Team.
[crowd boos]
We literally have Hall of Fame Tag Teams in our family
and you dedicate it to me.
You disrespect our Bloodline
and dedicate a Tag Team Championship match to me?
[Reigns] This is, uh…
I try to leave and take a little time for me
and what do you do? You come out here, you embarrass me.
You come out here and you misrepresent me,
The Bloodline, and our family, huh?
You know better than this.
Apologize.
[crowd booing]
What you looking at him for? What you looking at him?
You look at me. Apologize.
Hey, listen up.
I don't want to see nothing come out of your mouth
unless it's… "I'm sorry."
Or, "I apologize, my Tribal Chief."
[indistinct dialogue]
Are-- are you laughing?
[crowd chanting] No! No! No!
If I was you, I wouldn't listen to all these idiots.
[crowd booing]
I'd apologize.
If I was you, I'd listen to me
and I would apologize, do you understand me?
[indistinct dialogue]
I'm-- I'm here to make you smile now, huh?
We're running a commercial again?
I'm here to pop you, I'm here to make you laugh.
I'm a clown now, I'm a clown again, huh?
-No, no. -Who's the clown?
[crowd gasps]
You gonna to do something?
[indistinct dialogue]
[crowd cheers]
Hey, man, we apologize.
We apologize, uce.
-[crowd boos] -All right?
Hey, hey, you give us one more shot,
we'll bring back the championships to The Bloodline, uce.
Okay?
Hey, you're right.
The Tag Team Championships will come back to The Bloodline.
-Wiseman, fill them in. -Yes, my Tribal Chief.
May I? May I? May I?
Thank you. Thank you, my Tribal Chief.
Ladies…
and gentlemen,
The Tribal Chief has shown up here tonight
with a game plan already in hand.
The Tribal Chief, this week, authorized me
to pull every string to flex our Bloodline,
muscle with the board of directors, and here it is.
The Undisputed Tag Team titles come home to The Bloodline
at the Night of Champions.
When Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn…
[crowd cheering]
…will lose the Tag Team Championships
to Solo…
and your "Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns!
[crowd boos]
At Night of Champions,
Solo and I do what we always do,
we represent, we hold it down for The Bloodline.
I dedicate that victory and our Tag Team Championship title reigns
to the greatest Tag Team of all time.
Afa and Sika, The Wild Samoans.
[Cole] Jimmy and Jey are speechless,
embarrassed, humiliated…
as Roman Reigns,
the Undisputed Champion for nearly 1,000 days, Wade,
is going to team with his cousin Solo Sikoa
against Sami and KO at Night of Champions?
A seismic shift in the landscape of the tag division,
The big dog is going to show the little puppies
just how to get things done.
[Cole] I am… I'm shocked.
Wow, huge news regarding Night of Champions,
Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns teaming up
to ensure that those Undisputed Tag Team Championships
come back home to The Bloodline.
But for right now, please welcome my guests,
Damage CTRL's Iyo Sky, Dakota Kai, and Bayley.
Gushing over Roman Reigns much, huh?
This is supposed to be our interview time.
But you know what? I get it.
Roman and I have so much in common.
We're both Grand Slam Champions and we're both exceptional leaders,
even when things don't exactly go as planned.
But, Iyo, don't worry about it,
I really thought you had it at Backlash, but I put the blame on myself.
I pushed you way too hard and maybe you just weren't ready yet.
But like Roman,
sometimes leaders need to take things into their own hands,
and that's exactly what I'm going to do tonight
when Dakota and I exert our dominance
and win back the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship.
So, Kayla,
why don't you go tell Roman that SmackDown belongs to Damage CTRL.
[chuckles]
-Let's go, ladies. -Bye.
[Cole] She's a true leader.
["Liv Gone Mad" plays]
[Wade] Don't start with Bayley, all right?
New territory, draw a line under it.
[overlapping chatter]
[Cole] One half of the current WWE Women's Tag Team Champions.
["Trap Queen" plays]
[Cole] And here comes her partner.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest, scheduled for one fall,
is for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship.
Introducing first, they are the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez!
[Cole] Liv and Raquel hope to hold on to the gold
as they take on Bayley and Dakota Kai of Damage CTRL.
The Women's Tag Team Titles are on the line
next on Friday Night SmackDown.
[Cole] Our main event still to come tonight,
which one of these men will face Seth Rollins
in the finals of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament?
Will it be AJ or Lashley? We find out later tonight.
The world is talking
about the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament
much like it is about last week's Backlash.
[Wade] Backlash was truly one for the ages
as WWE made its long awaited return to Puerto Rico
in what was an unforgettable and record-shattering weekend.
Over 34,000 members of the WWE Universe flocked to San Juan
with back-to-back sellouts for both SmackDown and Backlash,
smashing gate and merchandise records.
Featuring the most streamed music artist in the world, Bad Bunny,
Backlash was a viral sensation,
garnering over 40 million views at the epic San Juan Street Fight
and dominating social media as the number one trend worldwide.
With the unrivaled energy and passion of the fans in attendance,
their enthusiasm and electric atmosphere
helped make Backlash not only the highest grossing
but also the most viewed Backlash in history.
And what a performance at Backlash by Damian Priest.
Yeah, absolutely right.
Bad Bunny rightly getting all the plaudits,
but Damian Priest, what a star-making moment.
Damian Priest has cemented himself
as a major player here in WWE for a long time to come.
Hey, hey, hey, something funny to you going on?
-Hey, nobody is speaking to you guys. -Huh?
Speaking Spanish over here.
You must've saw what just happened out there,
so everything funny.
How about I kick you right in the face, uce, is that a joke?
-Huh? -Hell's wrong with those guys, huh?
-I don't even know… -[overlapping chatter]
-What's going on? Hey. Hey. -[Rey] Calm down.
Hey, it's not our fault your Tribal jefe doesn't love you no more.
[laughs]
We having a problem here?
-Funny. -Problema?
[in English] Very funny. Come on, uce, let's go.
[speaks Spanish]
[grunts]
[laughs]
♪ Causing damage, we can have it Feel the struggle… ♪
[Cole] The Usos again just embarrassed and humiliated
-after Roman Reigns called them out. -[announcer] …representing Damage CTRL,
Dakota Kai and Bayley!
[Cole] Meanwhile, Women's Tag Team Championship Match,
Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez
will defend against Bayley and Dakota Kai of Damage CTRL.
You know, speaking of Backlash,
Iyo Sky had a breakout night against Bianca Belair
for the Raw Women's Championship.
And if Bayley had minded her own business,
perhaps Iyo Sky would be the Raw Women's Champion today.
[Wade] Are you physically incapable of not taking potshots at poor old Bayley?
-She is a ray of sunshine… -[bell rings]
…here on SmackDown,
and it's about time you said something nice about her.
[Cole] "The Powerhouse" Raquel Rodriguez
will start things off against Dakota Kai in this Tag Team Championship Match.
Both Dakota and Bayley, two-time Women's Tag Team Champions.
[Wade] Dakota Kai and Raquel once upon a time,
were a Tag Team in NXT, won gold there together.
-In fact, Raquel once upon a time… -[Cole] Tag.
…was a bodyguard for Dakota Kai.
How far she has come in the intervening years.
[Cole] Double team now by Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez.
Bayley sent out a tweet that basically said,
"The tag titles have a special place in my heart."
"Nothing would make me happier than winning a third title."
But it may not happen here, Morgan,
with the cover and a kick by Dakota Kai.
[Wade] I'm feeling anything golden
has a special place in that heart of Bayley,
and even all of these Superstars in the ring.
-Oh. -[Cole] And look who is looking on now.
Roll-up by Dakota Kai and a kickout.
They were the NXT Women's Tag Team Champions,
who were drafted by SmackDown a couple of weeks ago.
[Wade] Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn, I'll say it,
because you got it wrong, last week, Cole.
[Cole] Oh, and Dakota Kai with a big right hand.
-Thanks, partner. Way to have my back. -[Wade chuckles]
[Cole] Big right hand by Dakota.
Bayley, concentrate on the match instead of yelling at me.
You take another look at Dakota and the forearm,
and drags Liv Morgan to the corner.
Tag made now to Bayley, the leader of Damage CTRL.
[Wade] Dakota Kai, one of the quieter members of the locker room,
but so, so talented.
And Bayley clearly knows that,
that's why she recruited her for Damage CTRL.
[Cole] Roll-up by Morgan on Bayley and a kickout.
Bayley said that, "Hey, we ain't Cardi B or Megan Thee Stallion,
we're the real deal. See you idiots later."
Talking about the current Tag Team Champions. Oh!
[Wade] Megan Thee Stallion can't fight like these two
-as they're on their pathway to victory. -[Cole] Cover by Bayley
and a kickout.
Can Liv and Raquel retain, or will Damage CTRL win the tag titles?
-[screams indistinctly] -[crowd booing]
[Cole] This match is for the Women's Tag Team titles.
Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez
defending against Bayley and Dakota Kai of Damage CTRL.
Tags made. Dakota Kai and Raquel Rodriguez,
long history between these two as they go at one another.
[Wade] Big smile on the face of Raquel on that tag,
less so on the face of Dakota Kai
because she knew exactly what was waiting for her.
[Cole] Fallaway slam by Raquel Rodriguez.
[Wade] Absolute storm of fury in this ring.
This really is the secret weapon of this Tag Team.
[Cole] And Raquel going to go up to the second rope,
deliver the corkscrew elbow, nobody home
as Dakota rolled out of harm's way.
[Wade] Smart instincts from Dakota Kai.
Timed that to perfection,
and now Bayley is in to mop up the mess.
[Cole] Double team now by Damage CTRL,
and Raquel Rodriguez turns it around with her power.
Tag made by Liv.
[Wade] Biggest powerhouse in the Women's Division
and the most extreme member of the Women's Division.
[Cole] Morgan sent into the corner as the Tag Team champs are rolling.
Oh, and using Morgan as a battering ram.
[groaning]
Damage CTRL suffering a ton of damage,
at the hands of Liv and Raquel.
-[Wade] Liv Morgan was enjoying that. -[Cole] Oh!
[Wade] She is sick in the head.
[Cole] And Dakota Kai enjoying that.
Oh, maybe not. Over the top rope.
Liv Morgan turns her attention now to Bayley.
[Wade] Showing great durability, Liv Morgan
took a hell of a beating in the early goings of this matchup
but now seems back.
[Cole] Tag made by Dakota.
[Wade] Wrong side of the tracks, however.
[Cole] Not sure if Liv Morgan realizes the tag was made.
Referee Jason Ayers, saying, "Dakota, you got to get in here."
There's the big kick by Kai. Double team now by Damage CTRL.
[Wade] This is where the veteran instincts of Bayley really come to the fore.
[Cole] Oh my goodness! Dakota Kai.
[Wade] Gold on the line here.
Kai needs to make the cover.
[Cole] And Dakota Kai came down and…
may have tweaked her knee as she came down hard on Liv Morgan,
as the NXT Women Tag Champs look on.
[Wade] The gold floating around here right now,
could the gold be switching hands if Dakota Kai can make this tag.
-One! Two! -[Cole] Cover!
Breaking things up, Raquel Rodriguez at the last minute.
[Wade] You look at the sickening landing on this maneuver.
[Cole] Yeah, the Meteora by Dakota Kai,
and again, may have tweaked her knee as she came off the top rope.
Dragged now to the corner by Bayley.
[Wade] That was the difference maker,
make a quick pin after that move, and we have new tag team champs.
[Cole] Wait a minute, Bayley just--
Check on her. Check on her, you idiot.
-What do you mean check on her? -Check on her!
No, no, no.
[Cole] Directing Iyo Sky now, who has one of the tag titles in her hand.
Raquel Rodriguez playing defense.
Bayley knocking Sky off.
Liv Morgan going to roll her up.
Shoulders are down, Morgan and Raquel retain.
[bell rings]
[announcer] Here are your winners
and still the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan!
[Cole] Wade, a backfire, reminiscent of what happened at Backlash.
[upbeat music playing]
Come on, don't worry about it. Keep your chin up.
Hey, let's go for some pints.
[Pretty Deadly] Yes, boy!
-Yes, boy. -Yes, boys.
-Hello. -What's the crack up?
It's SmackDown's newest tag team, Pretty Deadly.
Tell me, which one of you is Pretty,
and which one of you is Deadly?
Anyway, we're new here on Friday Night…
[both] …SmackDown.
We're trying to fill these forms out. We're struggling a little bit.
I did manage to do my name though.
Mine's Elton Prince.
And I'm Kit Wilson.
-But the rest is a little unclear. -It really is.
Now with this one, Mr. Butch,
did you put down "unintelligent grunts"?
[laughs]
And, Ridge, there's a lot of big words here.
Maybe you need help from Mum.
Someone must have helped. There's no way you could--
Whoa. Hey, hey, hey.
Hey, hey. Sorry for your loss.
-Ooh, ooh. -Sorry about that loss. Ooh, ooh.
Pretty Deadly, huh?
We'll find out.
Hey, come on. Let's get them pints.
You're buying. Let's go. Come on.
[Wade] Boy, it's been a long time since SmackDown did sexy.
Well, enter Pretty Deadly.
Yes, boy!
[Cole] Ladies and gentlemen, up next.
We're in her hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee.
Bianca Belair's championship celebration is live and is next.
[Cole] Friday Night SmackDown on Fox
is sponsored tonight by Progressive Insurance.
Save when you bundle, auto, home, or motorcycle insurance.
[Wade] And get this, it is now official.
KO and Sami Zayn put tag gold on the line
against Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns at Night of Champions,
streaming live two weeks from tomorrow on WWE on Peacock.
["Watch Me Shine" plays]
[crowd cheers]
[announcer] Please welcome,
the longest reigning Women's Champion of the modern era,
and Knoxville's own,
"The EST of WWE"
Bianca Belair!
[Cole] Bianca Belair attended Austin-East Magnet High School
here in Knoxville, Tennessee.
Her family in attendance here tonight in the front row.
She went to the University of Tennessee, where she was all-SEC
and an all-American in track and field
and also academic honor roll in the SEC as well.
Bianca Belair is home tonight to celebrate
as the longest-reigning Women's Champion in WWE history.
[Wade] This place is going nuts for the hometown girl,
the record-breaking champion, what a star.
[fireworks exploding]
[Cole] The record-setting title defense
took place last Saturday night at Backlash in San Juan, Puerto Rico
with a victory over Iyo Sky.
["You Can't Hide" plays]
[Cole] Well, Asuka is, like Bianca now,
a member of the Friday Night SmackDown roster.
The first time we have seen her
since she lost to Bianca Belair back in WrestleMania.
[Wade] Real recognizes real.
One of the great former champs, recognizing the current champ.
May end up as the greatest of all time.
[crowd chanting] EST! EST! EST!
[Cole] Out here to congratulate Bianca.
-Wait a minute! -[Wade] Oh!
[Cole] Asuka with a mist to the champion!
[screams]
[Cole] The Empress of Tomorrow with a mist to the eyes of Bianca Belair.
[screams]
[Wade] What a sneak attack on the champ.
Completely blinded now, Belair.
[Cole] Asuka with a crazed look on her face.
Officials down here to try to get Asuka out of the ring
as she ruins this championship celebration of the Raw Women's Champion Bianca Belair.
[screaming]
[Cole] Obviously, Asuka's not gotten over her loss to Bianca at WrestleMania.
[Wade] Belair is in agony in there.
[crowd boos]
[Cole] Well, as they deal with Bianca Belair in the ring,
AJ Styles is warming up backstage,
getting ready for what is next,
a clash with "The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley.
The semi-finals of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament.
Who faces Seth at Night of Champions? Find out next.
Breathe, breathe, breathe.
-There's towels. -[screams]
You have to sit still. We're trying to help you.
-I gotta get back! -We're trying to help you.
Breathe. Breathe, Bianca. Breathe.
-[gasps, pants] -Breathe.
[Cole] Bianca in a world of trouble.
[Wade] Yes, indeed,
but the Tag Champs may be in a world of trouble next week
because the challengers at Night of Champions,
Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa
will meet face-to-face with Tag Champs KO and Sami Zayn,
right here next Friday on SmackDown.
[Cole] Also next week in Columbia, South Carolina,
Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar, the LWO,
clash with The Usos,
who were embarrassed and humiliated earlier on tonight.
[Wade] And my new favorite, the two tasty snacks
wasted no time in upsetting the SmackDown locker room.
We'll see new boys, Pretty Deadly,
square off against the Brawling Brutes right here next Friday.
Yes, boy!
[Cole] And also on SmackDown next week--
Earlier on, Grayson Waller tweeted out,
"AJ and Lashley are about to go to war
for the opportunity to appear on the Grayson Waller Effect,
next week, live on Friday Night SmackDown."
[Wade] I'm telling you that guy, Waller, is an absolute nightmare.
[bell ringing]
[announcer] The following is the semi-final match
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament!
Already in ring, "The All Mighty"
Bobby Lashley!
[Cole] And next week, Friday Night SmackDown,
we mentioned, comes to Columbia, South Carolina.
Which one of these men will be in the finals against Seth Rollins
for the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament?
That finals matchup will take place, Saudi Arabia,
two weeks from tomorrow at Night of Champions.
So here we go.
High stakes for Styles and Lashley,
an opportunity to be in the finals for the World Heavyweight title.
Your pick, Wade, to win this one?
[Wade] I got to go with AJ Styles,
but both men have already been through hell.
Bobby Lashley, though,
he's got a grotesque bump on the top of his head.
He lost about two pints of blood
earlier tonight in his matchup where he was victorious.
Tell you what, go and donate blood.
They tell you to lie down for 30 minutes afterwards
and do nothing strenuous for 24 hours.
Good luck with that, Bobby Lashley.
[Cole] AJ Styles, Bobby Lashley now, as this matchup starts and gets underway.
Both of these men, former World Champions.
Lashley will look to use his power.
AJ Styles, his speed and quickness.
And Styles will take the fight to Bobby Lashley.
Again, Triple-Threat rules earlier tonight,
this is a straight-up, one-on-one matchup between Styles and Lashley.
[Wade] Lashley must be feeling woozy.
He ain't showing it. He isn't selling it at all.
He's keeping game-faced.
There must be some inner turmoil.
[crowd chanting] Let's go, AJ! Let's go, AJ!
[Cole] Lashley now with a knee right to the midsection of Styles,
dropping him down to the mat.
Styles driven off the top turnbuckle,
and Bobby Lashley picking up the pace now
with a hard elbow to the back of the neck of AJ Styles.
[Wade] Lashley wants to finish this one quickly.
He's already done enough hard work for one evening.
Get yourself to the final.
[Cole] Again, Lashley knocking off Sheamus and Theory
in a Triple-Threat earlier tonight.
AJ styles took out Edge and Rey Mysterio, as we kicked off the show.
And now, Styles taking the fight to Lashley.
AJ Styles, one of the hardest workers that you will ever meet.
Loves being a part of WWE,
would love to represent it as the new World Heavyweight Champion.
[Wade] You ain't going to overpower Bobby Lashley.
-[grunts] -[Wade] Oh!
[Cole] Styles sent over the top rope by Bobby.
[Wade] What an ugly landing.
AJ may have tweaked that left knee.
[Cole] And Lashley, now outside the ring on the attack.
[Wade] Perhaps the left ankle that was recently repaired.
[grunts]
[Cole] Styles driven spine first into the apron.
[referee] Let's go, Bobby. Get him back in the ring.
[Cole] Bobby is vicious and as nasty as they come.
Let's go!
[Wade] He has to be, the gold is potentially on the line here.
[Cole] Lashley in control.
Can Styles climb back into this for a spot in the finals
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament?
We are back on Friday Night SmackDown at the University of Tennessee.
Semi-finals of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament.
Bobby Lashley versus AJ Styles,
the winner to meet Seth Rollins
two weeks from tomorrow at Night of Champions
for the new World Heavyweight Championship.
[Wade] Bobby Lashley has taken full control of this matchup.
Bobby Lashley missed out on a spot on WrestleMania this year,
has been fighting angry ever since.
[Cole] Yeah, but he won the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.
Now hopes to advance to the finals.
As AJ Styles though, wise veteran move,
take the powerhouse out at the knee.
Take him off that vertical base.
Lashley, though, quickly back up with an elbow.
Both of these men went through a Triple-Threat Match earlier tonight.
[Wade] AJ Styles told us last week on commentary,
he knows the window on his career is starting to close
and wants to make sure no time remaining is wasted.
Victory tonight is paramount for AJ.
[Cole] Whipped into the corner by Lashley.
Bobby Lashley now.
Oh, AJ Styles looks to roll through on Lashley,
and now, Calf Crusher.
You notice when he went for the knee earlier on,
he was weakening the leg for the Calf Crusher,
now, locked in on Bobby Lashley.
Great strategy by Styles.
And unlike in the Triple-Threat Match earlier tonight, though,
Lashley can make it to the ropes and force a break away.
[Wade] He was nowhere near the ropes, knew he wouldn't make it.
-The only way out was raw power. -[Cole] That's what he did.
Pounding the back of Styles' head into the ring.
[Wade] You see the slow, methodical pace that Lashley is instilling in this match.
It behooves him to keep his hands on AJ.
[Cole] Styles able to block, and now AJ Styles.
Again, kicks to the back of the left knee, the hamstring area,
weakening the powerhouse Lashley.
Now, unloading with the right hands is Styles.
Styles, DDT, face-first goes Lashley.
Cover for Styles to advance to meet Rollins,
and a kickout by Bobby Lashley.
[Wade] The pendulum truly is beginning to swing in this matchup,
both men must be running on empty.
They've been put through the wringer already tonight.
Dig deep, so much on the line.
[Cole] Lashley has a gash on the top of his head.
Remember what happened earlier tonight in the Triple-Threat.
[Wade] Doesn't AJ know it.
Targeted attacks now.
[Cole] Styles dragging Lashley to his feet.
Now AJ Styles trying to lift Lashley up.
[Wade] Oh, that is too much humanity, AJ.
-[grunts] -[Cole] Lashley though-- oh, face-first.
For the win to advance to the finals
and a kickout by Styles.
[Wade] Once again, take a look at the effortless power
from a weakened Bobby Lashley.
[Cole] That's a great word, Wade, for Lashley.
"Effortless," because everything he does looks that way.
One of the most powerful men in WWE.
The Gut Wrench by Lashley. AJ's up top.
Styles, though. Did the knee give out?
Oh, and a running right hand by AJ.
[Wade] AJ with cat-like instincts.
Not somebody you can knock off his feet easily,
even with the power of The All Mighty.
[Cole] Styles into the corner, got hooked by Bobby.
Bobby looking for the Hurt Lock now.
[Wade] Cinched in, Cole.
[Cole] Center of the ring, a Hurt Lock on AJ Styles.
Looking to get Styles to tap.
[Wade] Styles doesn't have the energy to make it to the ropes.
[Cole] What's Styles going to do? Bobby Lashley's got it locked in good.
Styles is almost there.
He is able to slip through the second rope.
It's going to force a break at five.
[Wade] So smart by AJ, but what is left in the tank now?
That's the question. Is the damage done?
[Cole] Now Bobby slamming AJ off the steps.
It was the steel steps that busted Lashley open earlier on tonight.
[Wade] AJ barely able to defend himself now,
cannot get the hands up.
[crowd chanting] Let's go, AJ! Let's go, AJ!
-[thuds] -[crowd cheers]
-[Wade] No sweat, Lashley going-- -[Cole] Oh!
[Wade] Signature shot.
AJ, in the nick of time, turning this one around.
[Cole] Again, AJ's got to get Lashley back in the ring.
[Wade] Got to get himself back in the ring.
Barely has the energy to do either.
[Cole] Styles going to load up for the Phenomenal Forearm
to put Bobby Lashley away.
AJ caught by Lashley.
Lashley powering AJ around the ring.
Styles able to drop down.
Again, right back to the already injured leg,
roll through on Lashley looking for the Calf Crusher,
-but Bobby… -[Wade] With those MMA skills of his own.
[Cole] …slips out. Now looking to power AJ up,
some knees from Styles to the face.
[Wade] This one is just degenerating into a slugfest.
The intent is there for technical mount.
But perhaps the body's giving in.
Running powerslam by Lashley.
For the win, hook on the leg on AJ, who kicks at two.
[Wade] And AJ knew very little about that kickout,
that was pure instinct.
Twenty-five years in the game for AJ, and not far behind that for Bobby Lashley.
[Cole] Lashley looking for the Hurt Lock again,
but this time, AJ able to counter.
[Wade] Supreme veterans that know what it's all about
to get in this deep water.
[Cole] Lashley with Styles
struggling to make it to his feet in the corner,
measuring his man, looking for a Spear.
AJ Styles, as Lashley goes shoulder-first to the post.
[Wade] Ducking out just in the nick of-- oh!
[Cole] And now a knee driving Lashley's face up against the ringpost.
Lashley is stunned.
AJ Styles has an opening, an opportunity.
-[Wade] Lashley is a sitting duck here. -[Cole] Styles off the top rope!
Phenomenal Forearm to Lashley!
AJ into the cover, hook of the leg.
-We got Styles and Rollins… -[bell rings]
…at Night of Champions!
[announcer] Here's your winner,
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles!
[Cole] Night of Champions is two weeks from tomorrow.
In Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
Where we already know Brock Lesnar has challenged Cody Rhodes to a match.
Cody against one angry Beast.
[Wade] "Head of the Table" Roman Reigns
is going to take care of business alongside Solo Sikoa
as they challenge the Tag Champs KO and Zayn
two weeks from tomorrow at Night of Champions.
[Cole] And now we know the finals
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament,
where it will be AJ Styles versus Seth Rollins.
One of these men will be crowned
the new World Heavyweight Champion at Night of Champions.
AJ Styles advances.
Styles and Rollins,
as The O.C. come out to celebrate with AJ Styles.
[indistinct chatter]
Goodnight, everybody, from Friday Night SmackDown.
[indistinct chatter]