[WWE intro music playing]
[John Cena] Then.
[Ric Flair] Woo!
-[glass shatters] -[The Rock] If you smell…
-[bell tolls] -[Cena] Now.
[Roman Reigns] Acknowledge me!
-♪ The King of Kings ♪ -♪ You can't see me ♪
[Cena] Forever.
Together.
[crowd cheering]
["Nobody Better Than Me" playing]
[Patrick] You're looking live
at the Resch Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin
on a night that sees the return of "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns.
Welcome to Friday Night SmackDown on FOX, sponsored by Progressive.
A triple threat of protection with home, auto, and more.
["Head of the Table" playing]
[crowd cheering and booing]
[crowd booing]
[popping explosions]
[Mike Rome] Ladies and gentlemen,
please welcome special counsel
"The Wiseman" Paul Heyman,
Solo Sikoa, Jimmy Uso…
and the Undisputed
WWE Universal Champion,
Roman Reigns!
[Cole] Ladies and gentlemen,
it has been 1,202 days
that Roman Reigns has ruled as the champion.
[Patrick] And no doubt, Roman Reigns was watching on last week
when a Viper dead set on Bloodline revenge,
Randy Orton teamed up with LA Knight against Solo Sikoa
and Jimmy Uso, and this was a pivotal moment.
LA Knight's influence there for all to see.
And just when we thought LA Knight was set to seal the victory, no, no, no.
Randy Orton turned it around, RKO to Jimmy Uso,
and Randy takes the victory over The Bloodline.
♪ I hear voices in my head ♪
♪ They counsel me, they understand ♪
♪ They talk to me ♪
[Cole] Corey, a lot has changed in the landscape of the WWE
since we've seen Roman Reigns.
[Patrick mutters]
[Graves] The Tribal Chief is in the house,
but so is "The Viper" Randy Orton,
who continues his quest against The Bloodline
when he goes one-on-one with Jimmy Uso tonight.
But, Cole, you're absolutely correct.
A very different landscape for The Head of the Table
since the last time we've seen Roman Reigns.
But it doesn't seem as though the champion is shook at all.
[Cole] The last time we saw Roman Reigns was back at Crown Jewel,
the first Saturday of November.
That was the night that the world believed LA Knight
may have ended the historic reign of Roman Reigns
before The Bloodline…
got involved.
[Graves] We're right next door to the hallowed grounds of Lambeau Field.
You are staring at greatness, sports excellence,
"The Head of the Table" Roman Reigns.
[crowd booing]
Oh-ho-ho! What a pass!
That makes me so happy.
[crowd booing]
Green Bay!
[crowd cheering]
Acknowledge me.
[crowd booing]
[woman] You suck!
You suck!
All right, all right.
Shut your mouths now.
[crowd booing]
I wouldn't have had to done that if you would have kept the boos down.
[crowd booing]
Come on. It's the Christmas season.
It's holidays, man. I'm here to celebrate.
[crowd cheering]
It's promotion season, y'all.
[crowd cheering]
Because I'm a good boss.
I'm a fair Tribal Chief.
When someone's doing good, we let them know.
Somebody's doing bad, we smash 'em.
But that's not tonight. You know what I mean?
So, tonight, it's about one man.
This man has bent over backwards.
He's sacrificed everything you can imagine over the past year or so.
This man understands what representing our family means.
This man understands what it's like to keep this family
at the top of the mountain.
[crowd] What?
And God forbid, if anything happens to me, this is the man that's going to step up.
[crowd] What?
He's the next in line.
[crowd] What?
[crowd chatter]
[crowd chanting] Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy!
[crowd chanting] Yeet! Yeet! Yeet! Yeet! Yeet! Yeet!
[both chants continue]
No, this ain't for Randy Orton. No. Hell no.
This man is going to be responsible for this Bloodline.
This is the next tribal heir. The next Tribal Chief.
Jimmy…
join me in congratulating your brother…
Solo.
[crowd cheering and booing]
I love you.
[crowd booing]
And so now you see…
♪ I hear voices in my head ♪
-[crowd cheering] -♪ They counsel me ♪
♪ They understand, they talk to me ♪
["Voices" playing]
[Patrick] Listen to the roar for Randy Orton,
who signed with SmackDown
with The Bloodline and Roman Reigns in his sights.
[Graves] There's a fine line between bravery and insanity.
The Viper just interrupted The Tribal Chief.
This won't end well.
♪ And loves to hate ♪
♪ I have a voice that has the knowledge And the power to… ♪
-♪ I hear voices in my head ♪ -Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy!
[Patrick] Packed house in Green Bay, Wisconsin
serenading "The Viper" Randy Orton who interrupted Roman Reigns
and The Bloodline moments ago.
[Cole] Well, there's one Randy Orton
and there's three members of The Bloodline.
♪ Talk to me, talk to me Talk to me ♪
["Voices" continues]
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy!
Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy!
For 18 months, I have been thinking about this moment right here.
I've been thinking about what I'm going to do.
I've been thinking about what I'm going to say.
But you know what, Roman?
The only thing I really need to say to you…
[crowd shouting]
…is that I'm coming for you.
[crowd cheering]
You took 18 months from me,
so I am going to take everything away from you.
And I don't care which one of your family members
I have to go through to get the job done.
The fact of the matter is this, Big Dog.
It starts tonight.
It ends at the Royal Rumble
because I am challenging you, Roman Reigns,
for the WWE Championship.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy!
-Randy! Randy! -Yeah!
Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy!
[crowd chanting] RKO! RKO! RKO! RKO! RKO! RKO!
-RKO! RKO! RKO! -[inaudible]
-I ain't going anywhere! -RKO! RKO!
RKO!
By the sound of the fans…
it sounds like you deserve it.
[crowd cheering]
But hold on, hold on, hold on. What'd you say?
Eighteen months you've been thinking about this?
Well, I haven't thought about you at all.
[crowd booing]
You've been gone for 18 months,
you haven't done anything to earn this opportunity.
Therefore, you don't deserve this opportunity.
Therefore, you can go to the back of the line where you belong.
[crowd booing]
This… this is crazy.
You just…
Everybody wants to get down with The Tribal Chief,
and they think they're just going to show up and get the opportunity.
That's not how it works. No. No.
So, why don't you go ahead and do what you do?
Tap into that big dumb head of yours
and why don't you listen to those voices that are going off?
It ain't 2007 anymore.
I'm levels above you and everybody else.
Those voices in your head they're telling you right now,
"Get out of the ring, Randy. Run."
"Leave this man alone. Do not disrespect your Tribal Chief."
Listen to 'em.
Because if you have a match with me, it ain't going to be an 18-month vacation.
Understand me, it's just retirement.
You ain't ever coming back.
[crowd jeering]
You know what? You know what? Maybe you're right.
Maybe you're right.
You know, I'm looking into the eyes of The Tribal Chief,
and I can see that you have changed.
For the better. For the better. You have evolved.
For the better. You are no longer just a historical champion.
You, sir, are a legend.
[crowd buzzing]
Now, I've changed too.
I've changed too. I have evolved.
But the one thing Randy Orton will always and forever be…
is a Legend Killer.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd exclaiming]
You know, you say you haven't been thinking about me, man.
Maybe you should start thinking about me.
[crowd cheering]
Hold on.
I'm getting something right now from the voices in my head.
[inaudible]
You know what they say? You know what they're telling me?
The voices just told me that, Roman, you might have just crapped your pants.
[crowd exclaiming]
And there's one more thing that they also said,
and I'll leave you with this…
Daddy's back.
[crowd cheering]
♪ I hear voices in my head ♪
♪ They counsel me, they understand ♪
[Graves] How is that for a warning shot across the bow?
I have never seen someone get under the skin
of The Tribal Chief like The Viper just did.
[Cole] Randy Orton showing Roman Reigns
that, "Just like that, I can deliver the RKO."
I'll do everything I gotta do to take that from you!
[Patrick] Saying he's been thinking about it for 18 months,
waiting for this moment to stand face-to-face with Roman Reigns.
"You took 18 months from me."
"Well, I'm going to take everything from you."
An impassioned Randy Orton.
And Randy Orton's quest starts tonight
here on Friday Night SmackDown.
One-on-one, The Apex Predator will take on Jimmy Uso
in our main event live tonight from Green Bay, Wisconsin.
I cannot wait for that tonight.
[Graves] And the tournament to determine
Logan Paul's first United States Championship challenger
continues when the pugnacious Kevin Owens
takes on the man who broke his hand, the arrogant Austin Theory.
[Cole] And in the other tournament matchup,
Grayson Waller thinks it's going to be a cakewalk, but think again.
Handpicked by NXT Head, "HBK" Shawn Michaels
to represent NXT.
Former champion Carmelo Hayes is here.
Here's a look at "HIM."
[announcer] Tonight's Highlight of the Night
is sponsored by WWE 2K23.
[upbeat music playing]
[dramatic music playing]
[Hayes] For those of you who don't know, I am HIM.
♪ I'm the king of war This is what I'm fighting for ♪
Carmelo Hayes, former NXT Champion,
two-time North American Champion.
♪ Already I'm the king of war ♪
It speaks for itself.
♪ My reign will last forever ♪
♪ My legacy will never die ♪
♪ Burn 'em down like Babylon ♪
♪ This is what I am, the chosen one ♪
This U.S. Championship Tournament…
♪ I'm a warrior king ♪
…is my moment.
♪ I am the one ♪
Grayson Waller…
♪ I'm a warrior king ♪
…you already know.
♪ I am the one ♪
[Cole] And still!
♪ I'm lethal, no equal There'll never be another, no sequel ♪
And Logan Paul…
♪ It's the rebirth I'm back from the dead ♪
…I'll be the one to show you
exactly what a generational talent…
-[crowd cheering] -♪ I am the one ♪
…really looks like.
-When I shoot… -♪ It's just begun ♪
…I don't miss.
♪ I'm a warrior king ♪
[song peaks, then fades]
["Eye On The Prize" playing]
[Patrick] Tonight will be Carmelo Hayes' SmackDown debut,
but he will face a familiar foe.
[bell rings]
[Rome] The following is a first round match
in the United States Championship Tournament.
Introducing first, from Sydney, Australia,
weighing 220 pounds, Grayson Waller!
[crowd booing]
♪ Just give me the reason Every day is the season ♪
♪ Believe it, well thought out Strategic… ♪
[Patrick] Grayson Waller getting set for action here
on Friday Night SmackDown.
The U.S. Championship Tournament first round.
The Royal Rumble is sponsored by Cricket.
With fast and powerful nationwide 5G coverage,
you can stress less and smile more.
[Graves] KP, do you realize that Grayson Waller could be moments away
from taking a giant leap toward his dream of being United States Champion?
[Cole] Or a giant step backwards.
[Patrick] What a match this promises to be.
Waller and Hayes is next on SmackDown.
♪ We the bosses Let me wish you goodbye ♪
[Patrick] Friday Night SmackDown is sponsored
by Progressive's Keys to Progress Program.
Gifting cars to veterans since 2013.
["Eye On The Prize" continues]
-The cocky and confident Grayson Waller. -I can't wait to be champ, baby!
That's your boy, Shawn, huh?
[Patrick] This is the first round of the United States Championship Tournament.
["Melo Don't Miss" playing]
♪ 'Cause I'm the greatest, ain't no hatin' I'm the best here ♪
[Rome] And his opponent, from Boston, Massachusetts,
weighing in at 210 pounds,
Carmelo Hayes!
[Patrick] Handpicked by WWE Hall of Famer Shawn Michaels to represent NXT.
This the prize to become number one contender
for Logan Paul's United States Championship Tournament.
Here's "The Maverick" Logan Paul himself.
My boy, "The Aussie Icon" Grayson Waller,
unfortunately has to waste his time tonight
in the U.S. Championship Tournament against some guy named Carmelo Hayes
who I assume won an essay contest to get this match.
He said, uh, "Melo don't miss,"
but, brother, I've missed your entire career.
Hey, have your family DVR SmackDown tonight
because it is the only time they're going to see you in that ring.
But good luck, random guy.
[Cole] Well, a lot of people know Carmelo Hayes,
despite what Logan Paul says.
He's a former NXT Champion
and he's a highlight reel in the ring.
[Graves] I would classify Logan's assumption
as unusually inaccurate.
[Patrick] So, we mentioned, this is the first round
of the United States Championship Tournament.
Santos Escobar and Bobby Lashley advancing last week.
And you notice something here, Corey?
Grayson Waller and Austin Theory, his best pal,
on the same side of the bracket.
[Graves] Could you imagine what a dream match that would be
in the midst of the tournament?
I think it would be spectacular, but let's be perfectly honest,
Grayson Waller, as talented as he is, is not…
He doesn't have an easy task ahead of him tonight.
-Carmelo Hayes proclaims that he is HIM. -[bell rings]
And what that means is that Carmelo is the talk of the town.
Carmelo is a Superstar, the caliber of which
where he will always be compared to other Superstars.
Melo is one of one.
He is the genuine article, a former NXT Champion.
And there's a reason why Shawn Michaels handpicked him for this opportunity.
[Cole] Well, speaking of Shawn Michaels, Grayson Waller has had a…
well, a sordid past with Shawn Michaels.
Does not get along with The Heartbreak Kid.
And Waller told me earlier today
that he believes Michaels set up Carmelo Hayes
just to stick it to Grayson Waller.
[Patrick] He's been banging on about it all day.
Thinks Shawn Michaels has a vendetta against him.
[Graves] Cole, I can verify everything that you just said
because Waller told me the same thing.
-We're great journalists, you and I. -[laughter]
[Cole] Meanwhile, Grayson Waller's last match in NXT--
[Patrick] Was last April for the NXT Championship
and a match that Carmelo Hayes retained,
but also Grayson Waller broke his leg in that match.
Waller quick to brag, saying,
"I was still drafted to SmackDown ahead of you."
[Graves] And I'm sure that fuels Carmelo Hayes!
What a right hand.
It drives Melo.
-It gives Melo purpose. -[crowd booing]
Seeing Grayson Waller succeeding on Friday Night SmackDown
has to get under Carmelo's skin
despite experiencing success currently in NXT himself.
[Patrick] Is there a lot of pressure on Carmelo Hayes to deliver for NXT?
[Cole] Well, listen, I'm going to answer that question
because I don't think there's any pressure.
I think Carmelo Hayes is playing with house money here.
He didn't even expect to be in this tournament.
He was handpicked by HBK. He wins, great.
If he loses, as long as he has a great showing,
everybody's happy.
[Graves] I actually agree with you, Cole.
[Cole] Thanks. Two for two.
[Patrick] Waller controlling proceedings right now.
-[Graves] Inside cradle. -[Patrick] Hang on a second.
Shoulders are down.
Oh my!
[Graves] Melo's head just taken off by that side kick from Waller.
Guys, can you imagine how spectacular it could be,
come Elimination Chamber in Perth, Australia,
if "The Aussie Icon" Grayson Waller marches in as United States Champion?
[Cole] Could happen.
[Patrick] Long road ahead first.
Starts with beating Carmelo Hayes here tonight.
Two fellas that know each other so well.
The pot of gold at the end of the rainbow
is just a matchup with "The Maverick" Logan Paul,
who you can never bet against.
We've learned that about Logan in his short tenure here in WWE.
Logan is the genuine article as well.
[Cole] Austin Theory not out here in Waller's corner,
getting ready for his match later on tonight with Kevin Owens,
who's gonna go into action
with a broken hand courtesy of Theory and Waller.
[Patrick] Gotta wonder how that's gonna play out.
Kick connects.
Carmelo Hayes now. Oh man!
[Graves] Fadeaway does it.
And Waller wisely rolling to the outside.
When Melo shoots, Melo don't miss.
[Patrick] Eyes on the prize now,
looking to impress here on his SmackDown debut.
Read by Waller.
Again, these two competitors know each other so well.
No, no, no, no. Come on now.
[Patrick] Off the ropes to devastating effect.
[Cole] A torpedo.
[Patrick] Oh.
[Graves] Sent crashing to the outside.
Waller's chances are looking bleak.
[crowd cheering]
[Patrick] A packed house tonight in Green Bay, Wisconsin,
in full voice, taking in the first round
of the United States Championship Tournament.
Carmelo Hayes on his SmackDown debut and Grayson Waller.
[Graves] During the break, Grayson Waller was able to turn the tides.
Watch this reversal by The Aussie Icon,
double stomp to the back of Melo's neck.
Now, Carmelo Hayes trying to fight back into this matchup.
[Cole] Uh-oh. May have tweaked his knee.
[Patrick] Oh, that spells trouble for Carmelo Hayes.
-[Graves] That could do it. -[Patrick] Wow!
-[Graves] Flatliner. -[Patrick] Set to qualify.
And Hayes kicking out.
[Cole] Yeah. What's interesting is you saw the way that Hayes landed.
He immediately grabbed his knee and Waller took advantage.
[Graves] And you may find Grayson Waller grating
or obnoxious, but the fact is…
[Cole] Right there.
[Graves] …Waller is a fantastic competitor,
smelling blood in the water, wasting no time
delivering that rolling flatliner and nearly advancing in the tournament.
[Patrick] The knee a massive concern now for Carmelo Hayes,
who will continue to fight.
He's fighting through the pain. It could have been a tweak,
just a momentary hesitation
because right now Melo throwing rights and lefts.
[Patrick] Such great battles over the years in NXT,
now here tonight on Friday Night SmackDown.
[Cole] It's so much on the line, an opportunity to advance
in the tournament for the United States Championship.
[Graves] Pump kick by Hayes and around we go.
Beautiful facebuster. Cover.
[Patrick] Quickly across to put away Waller, and Waller kicks out.
[Graves] And a look of frustration on the face of Carmelo Hayes
does not serve him well.
Melo can't get frustrated. He just needs to stay the course.
Delivered a fantastic facebuster,
but it wasn't enough to keep Waller down for three.
[Cole] Well, Hayes has had a lot on his mind as well the last few weeks
with the situation at NXT between his buddy Trick Williams,
the NXT Champion Dragunov, and…
-Oh! -[Graves] Uh-oh.
[Cole] …trying to fully concentrate on this match tonight.
[Graves] It's understandable. It could be very detrimental to Carmelo
if he's focused on anything other than Grayson Waller
who is looking for something here.
-[Cole] Oh my goodness! -[Patrick] God, what was that?
-[Cole] Right on the top of his head. -And that's going to do it.
[Cole] How the hell did Hayes kick out?
[Graves] That was unbelievable.
[Patrick] Check this out again.
Outrageous from Grayson Waller.
I don't even know what to call it 'cause I've never seen it before.
But it was awesome!
[Patrick] Bringing out the new tricks…
against the old rival.
It's going to take something special to separate Waller and Hayes.
[Graves] But that's what it takes.
When you've got a foe that knows you as well as these two know each other,
you've got to show them something new.
You can't always rely on the same old tricks.
-Victory roll. Shoulders down. -One, two…
[Patrick] Carmelo. No. Grayson Waller out just in time.
[Cole] Bang!
[Patrick] Kick rocking Waller.
Off the ropes.
[Graves] DDT. Found it.
-[Patrick] Is this it? Is this the moment? -One, two…
[Cole] A springboard DDT almost put Waller away.
And again, frustration showing, Corey, in Carmelo Hayes.
[Graves] Melo needs to stay the course, needs to maintain his focus.
-The DDT was delivered excellently. -One, two…
It was just the toughness of Grayson Waller on display.
Oh, hanging Melo across the middle rope for a second.
[Patrick] The winner of this match-- Hang on a second. Oh!
[Graves] There it is! First 48!
That could be the beginning of the end.
[Patrick] Melo don't miss. Quickly across.
Carmelo Hayes looking for Nothing But Net.
-Nails it. Hooks the leg. -One, two, three!
-Carmelo Hayes qualifies! -[bell rings]
["Melo Don't Miss" playing]
[Rome] Here is your winner, Carmelo Hayes!
[Cole] What a monumental win.
[Graves] Respect and credit where it's due.
Carmelo Hayes understood the assignment, kept his foot on the gas pedal
and was able to get the best of Grayson Waller.
First we see the First 48, the double knees right to the chest,
driving all the wind out of Waller.
And that, my friends, we call Nothing But Net.
The leg drop across the back of Waller's neck.
And Carmelo Hayes one step closer to a date
for the United States Championship.
[Patrick] On his SmackDown debut, a monumental win
that sees Carmelo Hayes advance
and he'll now face the winner of Austin Theory and Kevin Owens,
a match that's coming your way next here on Friday Night SmackDown.
[Cole] Can Carmelo Hayes do the unthinkable?
Can he actually win this tournament?
♪ I've been in this here for years And I'm runnin' strong ♪
[crowd cheering]
Man, there he is.
About what time do you think I should set my alarm to make the save tonight?
That was good. That was good.
But check it out, man.
Just like last week, I don't need your help out there.
Man, I'm not saying you need my help or you're looking for my help,
but we know how those numbers work.
As a matter of fact, I'm not sure
you'd have been able to sign the contract to SmackDown
had I not come out to save you.
-Nothing wrong with that. -Is that right?
-You just know how those numbers work. -Yeah.
Listen, I know we just met last week,
but I feel like we're good, right?
-Yeah. -We picked up a win
against Solo and Jimmy, so we're cool.
We got a win together. I feel like we're good.
-Yeah. -Let's keep it that way.
And to do that, you're just going to have to stay out of my way.
My guy. Man, I'm not looking to be in your way.
-"My guy." My guy… -Look, here's the thing.
You're worried about the Roman Reigns, about The Bloodline.
You got to understand if there's one man who's gonna take everything away
from Roman Reigns before anybody,
it's one man, LA Knight.
-[crowd] Yeah! -Yeah.
["Fight" playing]
[Graves] Very, very interesting developments.
[Patrick] Here's one man that knows a thing or two
about going up against The Bloodline by himself.
[bell rings]
[Rome] The following contest is a first round match
in the United States Championship Tournament…
Introducing first, from Marieville, Quebec, Canada,
weighing in at 266 pounds,
Kevin Owens!
[Patrick] How can you not notice the cast on Kevin Owens' right hand?
Kevin Owens is walking into a treacherous situation here.
He's been cleared to compete. But, Corey, does this make sense tonight?
[Graves] Well, if you know anything about Kevin Owens,
you know KO thinks with his heart first and his head second.
KO has got designs on becoming United States Champion
once again at the expense of Logan Paul.
But first, KO must get through Austin Theory.
Come on! Get out here!
[Graves] They go one-on-one live, next.
[Patrick] You're looking at Kevin Owens with a broken hand and all.
He's hoping that revenge tonight against Austin Theory,
is just one step toward Logan Paul and the United States Championship.
Here's our Progressive Match Flo.
I haven't punched you in the face in, like, two weeks.
[announcer] Match Flo is sponsored by Progressive.
A triple threat of protection with home, auto, and more.
["Take Flight" playing]
[Paul] To every hater who prayed on my downfall,
where are you now?
I spoke with Nick Aldis and we have created a tournament
to determine my next challenger.
Whoever wins this tournament is going to have a nightmare
trying to take this belt away from me 'cause--
["Fight" playing]
Your days as U.S. Champion are numbered, buddy.
If you and I fought, six seconds is five more than I need to KO you.
[crowd booing]
[Patrick] Kevin Owens is going to get his hands all over Grayson Waller.
[dramatic music playing]
[crowd cheering]
[Cole] Oh, come on.
[Graves] KO is hurt.
His hand. Get his hand.
[Cole] You have to wonder if Kevin Owens has a broken hand.
[Graves] Look at this. This is going to be catastrophic.
[Patrick] KO may turn this around, and does so!
-[bell rings] -[Paul] Oh, come on.
[Graves] Logan doesn't believe it.
[Patrick] Despite having a broken hand, Kevin Owens will compete
in the United States Championship Tournament.
-♪ A-Town Down ♪ -♪ Let's go! ♪
♪ A-Town Down, screamin' out loud ♪
♪ A-Town Down ♪
[Rome] And his opponent, from Atlanta, Georgia,
weighing in at 220 pounds,
Austin Theory!
[Graves] A man who once upon a time
was the youngest United States Champion in history,
looks to pick up his Forever Reign where it left off.
[Patrick] A man that defended his United States Championship
at the most recent WrestleMania against John Cena.
Hopes to become a three-time U.S. Champion.
Here's the man that currently holds the title, Logan Paul.
["A-Town Down" continues]
Hey, somebody tell me how this makes sense.
The U.S. Championship Tournament has former champion,
ripped guy, top tier athlete Austin Theory against Kevin Owens?
Bro, Kevin, you dress like a fifth grader
who takes PE dodgeball way too seriously.
Get some needle, get some thread and sew the sleeves back on, brother.
You're embarrassing yourself.
[Patrick] I don't know if there's anything embarrassing
about being a Grand Slam champion in WWE.
A three-time U.S. Champion that is Kevin Owens.
[Graves] There's nothing embarrassing about Kevin Owens' résumé,
but the fact that he takes PE dodgeball that seriously should be discussed.
[Cole] Austin Theory said he was embarrassed
that he even had to participate in this match tonight.
When I asked him about Kevin Owens, he scoffed and said,
"He's got a broken hand. I'm going to break the other. Easy."
[Patrick] This is the final match here in the first round.
Santos Escobar, Bobby Lashley,
and as recently as tonight, Carmelo Hayes have booked their place in the semifinal.
-Will it be Theory or Owens? -[Graves] Okay.
Well, let's talk about the fact that Kevin Owens' hand
was broken by Austin Theory.
Yes, but the reason it was broken
was because KO was walking around backstage
punching everybody in the face.
He punched Waller in the face.
He punched Theory in the face.
Theory was simply trying to get even
and look out for the safety of everybody backstage.
-I was in fear of my safety a few times. -[Patrick] Oh, come on.
To be fair, it came about in a match with KO and Grayson Waller
and Theory just got involved, as he usually does.
[Cole] Well, Kevin Owens wearing that specially-made cast on his right hand,
you have to believe Theory will probably target that tonight.
[Graves] That'd be a very sound strategy. Why wouldn't you?
[Patrick] So, what's the strategy then for Kevin Owens, Corey?
How does he protect himself?
[Graves] Well, thus far, Owens doing fairly well essentially one-handed.
KO has been around the game long enough.
He knows how to re-strategize, how to show you a few different looks.
If anybody can figure out how to overcome the obstacle of a broken hand,
it's a guy like Kevin Owens.
[Patrick] Austin Theory in immaculate condition.
Hang on a second. Shoulders are down here.
[Cole] And if you're Owens, end this match quickly.
[Patrick] Theory says he wants his championship back.
He sees the United States Championship as his own.
One, two…
[Patrick] Two-time holder at such a young age.
[crowd booing]
Kevin Owens. Oh! Flattening Austin Theory.
[Graves] Big Senton by Owens.
[Patrick] The word is backstage that Theory's been gloating all day
about how this match is already in the bag.
[Cole] That's what I said when he came out during his entrance.
[crowd booing]
[Patrick] People are sick of him, though…
-[Graves] Who is sick of him? -[Patrick] …underestimating Kevin Owens.
I'd argue we saw Logan Paul underestimating Kevin Owens.
Not tonight, but also on commentary here a couple of weeks ago.
[Graves] And Logan Paul is the United States Champion
and Kevin Owens is not.
Hey! Hey! Hey! Come on now.
-[Patrick] Owens now on the apron. -[grunting]
[Graves] Uh-oh. Theory looking for something serious here.
Owens able to put the brakes on for the moment.
Notice KO had his foot hooked under the bottom rope.
[grunting]
-[Patrick] Oh! -And a boot drops Theory to the outside.
-[Patrick] Kevin Owens. Oh my God! -[Cole] Oh!
[Graves] Cannonball from the apron.
[Cole] Broken hand be damned.
[Patrick] Willing to risk it all to take down Austin Theory tonight.
[Graves] Well, adrenaline can make you do great things.
Owens fighting through the pain, making the climb to the top turnbuckle,
and Theory, wisely rolling to the outside.
-Oh! -[groans]
[Graves] Hung across the top rope.
-Theory quickly back inside. -Boom!
[Patrick] No time wasted from Austin Theory.
[Graves] And Owens, the veteran, wisely rolling to the outside,
much like Theory employed moments ago.
Maybe Theory will have a little more luck this time.
Oh my God! Oh God.
[Cole] Somebody check on Kevin.
[Graves] This one's over.
-You want to fight? You want to fight? -Bring it in, guys. [indistinct]
I ain't playing wit' your ass.
[referee] Inside this ring!
[Patrick] From the top rope now, Austin Theory and Kevin Owens,
United States Championship Tournament.
The winner will face Carmelo Hayes in the semifinals.
[Graves] Headbutt right between the eyes of Theory.
Now, Owens from the top rope.
-[Patrick] KO, splash all across-- -[Cole] Oh!
But he hurt his hand.
He landed hard on his hand and Kevin Owens couldn't capitalize.
[Patrick] Can he now? Quickly in for the cover.
Theory kicking out.
That could have made all the difference.
The momentary delay as Owens had to fight through the pain
after delivering this incredible frog splash.
Full extension, 260 pounds-plus crashing down across Theory.
[Patrick] Can't even imagine with a broken hand.
Owens is going high yet again.
-KO. This time, a Swanton bomb. -[Graves] Knees up.
Theory got the knees up. Into the cover.
-Hook the leg. -One, two…
[Patrick] Theory to advance. No, KO still there.
[Graves] Such a display of guts and will.
[Patrick] Tonight's Friday Night SmackDown on FOX
is sponsored by Progressive.
What have you made of Theory's strategy, so far?
He's focused on every part of KO, not just the hand.
Well, listen, when you're in the ring with a competitor,
you've got to take the opportunities that present themselves to you.
Theory obviously game planned to attack the hand of Kevin Owens,
but Owens has done a great job of protecting his right hand,
so Theory's just making it work, figuring it out as the match progresses.
It's a very smart strategy.
You hear me? [indistinct]
[Graves] Big boot by Owens connects.
Theory tried to answer with a right hand, but instead finds a KO headbutt.
Utilizing his left hand.
Not the dominant hand, but effective enough.
And now Owens stomping away at Austin Theory.
[Patrick] Just keep fighting.
[Cole] And Kevin Owens' never say die attitude.
Never out of the fight.
[Patrick] Now has the WWE Universe here firmly behind KO.
Ooh.
The stakes enormous, as KO flattens Theory.
Quickly back on his feet, though.
[Graves] Inverted atomic drop and a DDT with one arm from Owens.
[Patrick] Can he do it?
Advance here in the Championship Tournament--
And Theory kicks out again.
[Graves] And I understand that Logan Paul
is supremely confident every day of his life,
but watching this has to sway Logan's opinion
of what he says about Kevin Owens, or at least what he believes internally.
[Patrick] Can you imagine the fire that would rage deep inside of Kevin Owens
if he were to meet Logan Paul,
given everything Logan Paul has said already?
[Graves] It'll be a matchup to watch for sure, but Kevin Owens,
he's got to get through this match,
then another match, and then another one before he even gets there.
Right about that, and with one good hand,
that's gonna be much easier said than done.
[Patrick] Bang! He can use his feet.
-[Graves] Cover. -[Patrick] Owens.
Can he do it? Theory again.
What is it going to take?
This the first round of the United States Championship Tournament.
Carmelo Hayes awaits in the semifinals.
[Graves] The winner will challenge Logan Paul
for the United States Championship.
[Cole] Yeah, but you've got to win three times to get there.
[Patrick] The likes of Santos Escobar,
Bobby Lashley still alive in this tournament.
-[Graves] Wow! -[Cole] Oh my goodness!
[Graves] Cover here by Theory.
[Patrick] Theory, he's going to do it.
Oh, Kevin Owens, shoulders up.
[Cole] What an athlete Austin Theory is!
That was incredible.
[Graves] Earlier tonight, Grayson Waller blew our minds with his offense
and it seems as though Theory wants to do the same.
A seated springboard Spanish fly…
that nearly put Owens away.
[Cole] Theory, though, uh… upset, cannot believe
that Kevin Owens was able to kick out.
[Patrick] So much ingenuity.
He wants to take Owens on a little trip here.
[Graves] Theory trying to muscle up Kevin Owens,
perhaps thinking about A-Town Down.
[Patrick] Still has all the energy in the world.
Austin Theory.
-[Graves] Uh-oh. -[Patrick] KO turns it around!
[Graves] I thought Theory knew better.
You can't superplex Kevin Owens.
It's impossible.
[Patrick] Owens, though, grabbing that broken hand in agony.
[Cole] Yeah, trying to dig down deep and fight through this somehow.
And Owens did his best to try to keep Theory in the ring.
And it didn't happen.
[Graves] And again, Austin Theory, I know, does his homework.
But if you've watched a Kevin Owens match in your career,
any time you try to superplex him, that's usually how it ends up.
So in the future against-- to any Superstars paying attention,
I would advise not trying to do that.
[Cole] You see the agony in the face of Kevin Owens?
[Graves] It's the display of toughness, guts, and will.
-Just keep fighting. -[Cole] Oh!
[Graves] And a rough landing for the gutsy Canadian.
And a left hand.
[Cole] Yeah, did you hear the impact?
And now Theory calling for the referee to start the count.
Trying to pick up a count out win here.
Five!
[Graves] The official's already at the count of five, Owens in danger.
Six!
[indistinct chatter]
[Patrick] Jessika Carr, referee, now at a count of seven.
-Owens, you got to get back in there. -Eight!
[Cole] Kevin Owens trying to make his way up onto the announce table.
[Patrick] Oh, just before ten.
Kevin Owens makes it back in. Rocked by Theory.
Austin Theory now. Oh my!
[Graves] Blockbuster by Theory. Hooks the leg, cover.
[Patrick] That's gotta do it for Austin Theory to advance.
And Owens is still alive. How?
[Graves] Now, frustration being felt by Austin Theory.
Rolling through into a jumping blockbuster.
The athleticism it requires to pull off that move is surreal.
Austin Theory has it in spades,
but it still was not enough to topple Owens for three.
[Patrick] Outweighed right now by the heart of Kevin Owens.
The willingness to just keep fighting.
But at what cost?
A broken hand and all. As Theory now is having his way with KO.
[Cole] It's been an incredible first round matchup.
[Patrick] KO. Oh.
[Cole] That could be the opening Kevin Owens needs.
[Graves] Uh-oh, Theory in all types of trouble!
[Patrick] The runway is clear.
[Graves] Clear the deck!
-[Patrick] Oh! -[Cole] Massive cannonball!
[Patrick] Is this your moment, Kevin Owens?
Theory in the drop zone.
Swanton bomb!
-KO to qualify. -One, two…
[Patrick] Oh, Theory kicking out.
[Graves] Kevin Owens less than a half a second away from advancing
in the United States Championship Tournament
after a thunderous cannonball in the corner
followed up immediately by a Swanton bomb.
Owens got all of it, but Theory just won't quit.
[Patrick] This, following up a sensational match
between Waller and Carmelo Hayes to kick off SmackDown,
tells you all about the stakes of this tournament here.
A chance down the line at Logan Paul and the United States Championship.
Who's going to qualify? Kevin Owens is fired up.
[Graves] Kevin looking for the stunner, but Theory countered.
[Patrick] Oh, to the broken hand!
[Cole] Smart move by Theory.
[Graves] Brilliant. That is incredible wherewithal…
[Cole] Oh no!
[Graves] …by Austin Theory.
[Cole] He's going to break the arm if he keeps it up.
You ready?
[Cole] Oh no.
[indistinct chatter]
[Patrick] Trying to rip the cast off Kevin Owens.
[Graves] Things just went from bad to worse for Kevin Owens
and his United States title aspirations.
[Patrick] Oh, Kevin Owens.
[Graves] Owens used the cast!
[Cole] Well, at this point, what did it matter?
[Graves] Delivered a haymaker.
[Jessika] One, two, three.
-Like he's friggin' Draymond Green. -[bell rings]
["Fight" playing]
[Rome] Here is your winner, Kevin Owens!
[Graves] Wait, wait, hey, is it possible to protest the outcome of a matchup?
[Cole] Well, why?
I mean, Theory tried to destroy the cast and the arm throughout the entire match.
Kevin Owens just realized at the last minute,
"Hey, this may be a little bit of a help for me."
[Patrick] The irony of it all, Austin Theory,
the man that broke Kevin Owens' hand.
[Graves] Well, listen, Austin Theory, obviously intended on targeting
the injured hand of Owens.
And right here, it looked as though Kevin Owens' dreams went up in smoke.
A vicious stomp that may have re-broken the hand of Owens,
but Owens swinging wildly right on the money.
Hey, Logan Paul, one lucky punch. Does that ring a bell?
-In this case, Owens is the benefactor. -One, two, three!
[Graves] Rough night for Austin Theory.
But Owens has now advanced in the United States Title Tournament
and will square off in the next round against NXT's Carmelo Hayes.
[Patrick laughs] Oh, what a match that promises to be.
Escobar, Lashley on the other side.
Those matches coming your way next week on Friday Night SmackDown.
[Cole] What a gutsy performance from Kevin Owens tonight.
[Graves] Living up to the motto of "Just keep fighting."
This is Kevin Owens' show!
Are you kidding me?
Tonight's supposed to be a celebration.
Randy Orton completely ruined this, completely ruined Solo's moment.
-You saw it, right? -Yeah, I saw.
Someone's got to…
Somebody's got to shut his mouth.
The things he said to me. He needs to be silenced.
Listen, Uce, I can silence Randy Orton,
but it sounds like a job for the, uh…
Tribal Heir.
You kidding me?
It's promotion season.
If you're able to handle Randy Orton alone…
just imagine what's in store for you.
You could get anything.
You understand?
Yeet!
[crowd chanting] Yeet! Yeet! Yeet! Yeet! Yeet! Yeet!
Yeet! Yeet! Yeet! Yeet!
Yeet! Yeet!
No yeet.
["Nobody Better Than Me" playing]
[Patrick] The job is yours, Jimmy Uso.
It's promotion season. Will Jimmy go and earn it?
The Viper stands in Jimmy Uso's way, determined to tear down The Bloodline.
That's our main event, tonight on SmackDown.
♪ Like there ain't nobody Who's better than me? ♪
We're proud tonight to be at the Resch Center
in Green Bay, Wisconsin, just across the road
from the famous Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers.
The Cheeseheads in attendance tonight,
lovin' life here on Friday Night SmackDown.
[Graves] Well, you mentioned the Green Bay Packers.
They are in the house.
-[crowd cheering] -Go, Pack, go, baby!
Yeah!
[Cole] Having a great time here tonight in Green Bay.
The Pack in the thick of the playoff hunt in the NFC.
Yeah!
[dramatic music playing]
[Cole] WrestleMania comes to Philadelphia next April,
and WWE takes over the City of Brotherly Love all weekend long.
It all starts Friday with SmackDown, followed by the WWE Hall of Fame.
Saturday, it's NXT Stand & Deliver, and Monday, the Raw after WrestleMania,
the biggest Raw of the year.
All those events will take place at the Wells Fargo Center
and individual tickets for all those shows are on sale now and going fast.
WrestleMania weekend in Philadelphia!
[funky hip-hop music playing]
[bell rings]
[Karrion Kross] I would like to speak with you all today
about the most urgent world event that is about to occur.
This place is about to be recycled.
[dramatic music playing]
The moment I walked through the door, everything was set into motion.
And now we are at the threshold.
A new beginning.
Everything is about to crumble.
Can you see it yet?
Soon you will.
-[panting] -[crowd cheering]
-Hey, Kevin. -Hey, man.
-Man, that was awesome out there. -Thank you.
Hate to see it, but I wish I could have punched Theory just like that, man.
-That was awesome. -Who wouldn't? Who wouldn't?
-Thanks, man. -Good seeing you.
Likewise.
That was very nice.
-Excuse me, Kevin. -Hi.
First of all, congratulations on your victory
over Austin Theory tonight…
Thank you.
…which means you're advancing in the United States Championship Tournament,
facing NXT's Carmelo Hayes next week on SmackDown,
who you've never faced before.
So, how does one prepare for a first time opponent?
That's a great question,
but I was kind of like Carmelo Hayes at one point.
You know, like almost ten years ago, I showed up on Raw,
went face-to-face with John Cena, and now I'm not…
I'm not saying I'm anything like John Cena,
but, you know, as far as Carmelo goes,
I know he's very talented and he's right next to me right now.
-What's up, Kev? -Not much.
-Hey, man. -Had a match, sweating a lot.
I just want to say first thing, I got a ton of respect for you.
Thank you.
Look, you've done it all, you've won it all, but…
Almost, yeah.
…this U.S. Championship Tournament, I need this way more than you do.
And I'm not like Waller, and I'm not like Theory.
You're not gonna punch me in the face
and you're not gonna little bro me.
[crowd buzzing]
Kayla, what…
what does little bro-ing someone mean?
Did I do that? I don't think that I…
[scoffs]
That is exactly the type of mentality Carmelo Hayes needs
to get through Kevin Owens in the next round.
I like what I just saw.
Kevin Owens continued to fight through the pain,
as did Charlotte Flair last week, but it came at a cost.
Really unfortunate news filtering through that Charlotte Flair
will be out of action because of a knee injury for nine months.
This was the moment, Cole.
You and I on commentary for this.
A really, really difficult moment for Charlotte.
[Cole] Yeah, Charlotte, uh, would continue on in the matchup
to the best of her ability, going one-on-one with Asuka.
She would try to lock in the figure eight before Bayley would get involved
[Patrick] And Bayley told to stay in the back.
Bayley gets involved. Asuka picks up the win.
This time, Bayley with a positive intervention.
[dramatic pop music playing]
You just saw one example of why I created Damage CTRL
in the first place,
to become the most dominant women's faction in WWE history.
And every day we get closer to my goal. [laughs]
I knew that Iyo was special from day one.
I knew she was destined to win the Money in the Bank
and become your WWE Women's Champion.
[speaking Japanese]
[in English] And with The Kabuki Warriors, we are stronger than ever.
I just helped Asuka beat 14-time champion Charlotte Flair.
[speaking Japanese]
[in English]
[laughing]
And now it's time for all of us to raise the bar and change the game.
Spoken like a true mastermind.
Because now is the time for Damage CTRL to hold all the gold.
And that starts with the most dangerous tag team
in the division, The Kabuki Warriors,
winning the WWE Women's Tag Team Titles,
and me, entering the 2024 Royal Rumble,
winning, and taking Rhea Ripley's championship.
And finally,
finally, my dream will become a reality.
-Yeah! -[laughter]
-That's all you, baby! -Woo!
Damage CTRL! Damage CTRL!
[Graves] A united front presented by Damage CTRL,
and this is a fun little blast from the past.
["Reigning Warriors" playing]
[bell rings]
[Rome] The following contest
is a tag team match scheduled for one fall.
Making their way to the ring, Kairi Sane and Asuka,
The Kabuki Warriors!
[Patrick] You're spot on, Corey. We have seen this before.
-The Kabuki Warriors are back. -[Graves] Wait, wait, behind.
Look out behind you.
[Patrick] That's Zelina Vega and Michin.
-[Cole] Little payback. -Asuka! Huh?
What do you mean, "little payback"? This is a scheduled matchup.
Who the heck do Michin and Zelina think they are
attacking The Kabuki Warriors before the bell?
[Cole] Well, The Kabuki Warriors would have done the same thing
if they had the opportunity.
[Patrick] Let's get this match going, shall we?
Michin, Zelina Vega versus The Kabuki Warriors is next.
You want it?
Let's do this right now!
[Patrick] Welcome back to Friday Night SmackDown.
The match underway here.
Michin, Zelina Vega against The Kabuki Warriors!
[Cole] Yeah, Asuka and Kairi Sane, first time teaming together
in a long while, former Tag Team Champions.
An important matchup too for both of these teams,
especially for The Kabuki Warriors.
As you heard Bayley saying, they want to take over WWE.
Could earn themselves a Tag Team Championship opportunity.
[Graves] This is what happened before the break.
As The Kabuki Warriors were making their entrance,
Zelina and Michin attacking from behind,
attempting to gain the upper hand, which they held momentarily,
but The Warriors have since turned the tides back
to their own favor.
[Patrick] As they go to work now, remember, Zelina Vega and Michin
were targeted by Damage CTRL in the buildup to WarGames.
Still have a cross to bear, they feel, with Damage CTRL.
Look at The Kabuki Warriors!
[Graves] Expert level tag team work.
[Patrick] This time four years ago,
The Kabuki Warriors were in the midst of what is still
the longest Women's Tag Team reign in WWE history.
[Graves] The Sliding D from Kairi Sane, who's climbing all the way to the top.
Michin better look out!
[Patrick] Kairi Sane.
[Graves] Forearm finds the mark. Cover by Sane.
[Patrick] Kicking out is Michin.
So many lofty goals delivered by Bayley there
moments ago on SmackDown.
[Graves] Don't let it get lost in the sauce.
Bayley claimed she was going to win the Women's Royal Rumble match
and then take Rhea Ripley's championship on Monday Night Raw.
[Patrick] What a statement that is from The Role Model.
[Graves] Big dream for sure, but can never bet against Bayley.
[Cole] Some of the great tag team moves by Asuka and Kairi Sane.
-[Graves] Cover by Asuka. -One, two…
[Patrick] Asuka now to finish it. Michin still in it.
[Graves] Bayley called Dakota Kai The Mastermind.
Tell you what. If there was any idea
that Bayley had lost control of Damage CTRL,
it certainly didn't feel like it.
[Graves] Seemed like an absolutely united front.
But I think it's fair to give credit to Dakota Kai.
She has been the glue that has held a lot of Damage CTRL together at times.
She's out there constantly, presently, strategizing.
Watch her hair! Come on. Watch her hair. Back up. Go on.
No!
[Patrick] Asuka and Kairi Sane,
they want the Tag Team Championships.
Can they put away Michin? Not on this occasion.
[Cole] Damage CTRL has all the marks
of being an unstoppable force here in WWE.
[Graves] I wholeheartedly agree with you, Cole.
I've been singing their praises for months.
Asuka, one of the backfists into the backslide.
-Shoulders down. -[Patrick] Oh, can Michin do it?
Asuka out just in time.
Michin quick once more. Shoulders down again.
Michin now starting to pick up the pace, but look at Asuka.
[Graves] Hooks the leg, shoulders down. Michin able to survive.
And I don't think Asuka was even attempting
to win with that cover.
It was more of an exhaustion factor, trying to tire her opponent out.
Any time you execute even a lateral press,
it forces your opponent to kick out, to utilize their core strength,
and essentially wears them down over time.
And, Corey, here's the other problem now,
if you're trying to take out Damage CTRL,
you've lost one of the biggest soldiers in the fight in Charlotte Flair.
Charlotte is going to be out for months now with a knee injury.
So, now Charlotte's down.
How do you stop Damage CTRL?
[Graves] I don't know that you can.
[Patrick] Damage CTRL such a threat
that you saw Charlotte even wanted to work with Becky Lynch at WarGames.
Here's Zelina Vega.
Look at the other side of the coin.
If you're Michin and Zelina Vega, you realize
that Piper Niven and Chelsea Green need new challengers
in the Women's Tag Team Division.
Picking up a win over a formerly dominant tag team
like The Kabuki Warriors would certainly strengthen your case.
[Patrick] Oh, look at Zelina Vega go, such a fiery competitor.
In for the cover now!
Kairi Sane out just in time.
-[Graves] Say that 'cause of her hair? -I mean, she's rocking the Rengoku,
Demon Slayer hair there, Gravy.
[Graves] How the hell did you know that?
[Cole] I don't even know what you're talking about.
[Patrick laughs] Anime, Cole.
[Graves] A little Devilock DDT there from Zelina Vega.
[Patrick] Zelina now eyeing the prize but taking her time here, Corey.
Strange strategy from Zelina.
[Cole] A 619, paying homage to Rey Mysterio, her mentor.
[Graves] It was an homage
that earned her a backfist from Kairi Sane.
Listen, Zelina obviously has a lot on her mind
with the LWO seemingly disintegrating before her very eyes.
She's got to feel like a woman without a…
without a country right now.
The Asuka Lock is cinched in and it's lights out for Zelina.
[Patrick] Oh, this is lethal.
Absolutely lethal from Asuka.
[Graves] Try as you might, there is no surviving the Asuka Lock.
-Nowhere to go for Zelina. -Whoa, whoa! Shoulders down.
Well, hang on a second.
-Can she do it? -Great counter by Zelina!
[Graves] Fantastic counter by Vega. Tag made to Michin.
[Patrick] Here comes Michin.
Swing and a miss. Oh!
[Graves] Martial arts duel here for the moment.
Michin getting the best of that exchange.
Asuka, get out of there!
[yelling]
[Patrick] Michin on an absolute mission right now.
-[Graves] That'll jam your spine. Cover. -One, two…
[Patrick] To put out Kairi Sane.
[Cole] You have to call this an upset
if Michin and Zelina Vega can pull off the win.
[Patrick] Damage CTRL motoring in the right direction, that's for sure.
Kairi Sane connects.
What an impact Kairi Sane has made so far with Damage CTRL.
-[Graves] What the heck? -[Patrick] Oh no.
[Cole] And Kairi Sane… Zelina Vega right on the announce table.
[Graves] Well, that could be curtains for Ms. Vega.
[Patrick] Just crushing the spine across the announce desk.
Meanwhile, back inside now, Michin and Asuka.
Quick rapid offense.
[Graves] Soccer style overhead kick just rocked The Empress for the moment.
Michin starting to feel it.
Dakota!
[Graves] Dakota Kai right on cue!
-[Cole] And also on cue. -Look at the far side!
[Graves] Oh-ho-ho! Bayley!
What a welcome surprise!
[Patrick] Out of nowhere, Bayley.
[Graves] Michin crashed and burned and it is going to be elementary
from this point.
[Patrick] Kairi Sane from the top rope, looking to connect
with the Insane Elbow.
One, two, three!
-[Patrick] And that does it. -[bell rings]
["Reigning Warriors" playing]
[Rome] Here are your winners,
The Kabuki Warriors!
[Graves] What a return to form for "The Empress of Tomorrow" Asuka
and Kairi Sane.
The Kabuki Warriors eager to reestablish dominance.
And Michin looked as though she were going for broke.
Bayley from out of nowhere…
And put a little oomph in it, KP.
That's the Insane Elbow.
[Patrick] There you go!
-[Graves] Right on the money. -One, two…
-Big win for Kairi and Asuka. -…three!
[Patrick] And back to back weeks now with Bayley and the positive intervention
for Damage CTRL.
Is there any stopping Damage CTRL?
[indistinct yelling]
Woo!
[inaudible] They wasted no time at all.
Paul and Roman been talking mighty long, Uce.
Longer than usual.
And it don't feel good.
It don't even feel right.
On the real…
it feels like a setup.
And let me ask you something, man.
Solo…
you would tell me if something were to happen to me, right?
Right?
I'm your brother.
[crowd chatter]
[Patrick] Maybe some paranoia creeping in for Jimmy Uso
who must go it alone.
Can he pass the test issued by Roman Reigns
and take down "The Viper" Randy Orton?
It is our main event tonight, sponsored by Wingstop.
Don't go anywhere. It's next, live on FOX.
["Nobody Better Than Me" playing]
[Santos] The last time I had the United States Championship
within my grasp…
the opportunity was ripped away by Rey Mysterio.
Because of that, a WWE Hall of Famer and lucha libre legend…
is no longer around us.
This time, I won't let anything or anybody take what I rightfully deserve.
Now, I take on a man I've never faced one-on-one,
"The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley.
-[rumbling] -[crowd cheering]
Bobby's all about appearances.
Expensive suits, fancy dinners.
Don't get me wrong.
I understand. I get it.
But none of that matters in that ring.
When I'm through with Bobby,
he will not want to show his ugly face on SmackDown ever again.
And when I'm done with everybody else standing in my way…
I will take away what I gave to Logan Paul
and become the new United States Champion…
Santos Escobar.
[dramatic music playing]
Okay.
So now let's let this sink in.
Logan Paul…
is our United States Champion.
-Wow! -Wow!
Okay. And now we have this tournament
where we have a bunch of Superstars that Logan Paul thinks he can beat…
except me.
-Amen. -Talk to 'em.
The next round, Santos.
Santos Escobar, papi chulo,
who thinks he's done everything under the sun
but when it comes to "The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley,
he ain't standing on business.
No, sir. No, sir.
Look, Santos, you can either step up or get stomped out.
Either way, it's gonna be dominance on arrival.
See, honestly, Santos…
you're just standing in my way.
["Nobody Better Than Me" playing]
[Patrick] That is one fired up Bobby Lashley.
Roll on! The United States Championship Tournament semifinals
next week on SmackDown.
Can Lashley continue his reign of dominance
or will it be the sadistic Santos Escobar?
We're going to find out next week.
[Graves] And the other semifinal match, will it be Kevin Owens, cast and all,
who advances, or will he find out firsthand
Melo don't miss
when he takes on NXT's Carmelo Hayes next week?
[Cole] After dethroning Dirty Dominik Mysterio at NXT Deadline,
the gravity-defying Dragon Lee defends his NXT North American Championship
against the bone-snapping brute,
looking to make a name for himself on his own, Butch, next week.
[Patrick] And it is the festive season
and we've got a Holiday Havoc 8-Woman Tag Team Match
coming your way.
Bianca Belair has assembled her team
and they all have reason to want to rip apart Damage CTRL.
Can Damage CTRL continue their dominance?
We're going to find out next week.
♪ I don't see nobody Who stepping to me? ♪
♪ I hear voices in my head ♪
♪ They counsel me, they understand ♪
♪ They talk to me ♪
["Voices" playing]
[bell rings]
[Rome] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from St. Louis, Missouri,
weighing in at 275 pounds,
"The Viper"
Randy Orton!
[Graves] 275 pounds of twisted steel.
The Viper in the best shape of his career.
And we know the goal.
We know what is on Randy's mind.
We know what the voices in The Viper's head are telling him:
to take out The Tribal Chief.
[Cole] He's coming for everyone in The Bloodline.
He said it starts tonight.
And he wants it to end at the Rumble and take Roman Reigns' championship.
[Patrick] You'd never doubt the 14-time World Champion.
Well, folks, Friday Night SmackDown is sponsored by Progressive Insurance.
For a job you'll love, visit Progressive.
♪ And the preachers all are sinners ♪
♪ And police… ♪
[Patrick] Corey, you said it earlier on tonight.
It's so rare to see Roman Reigns
as rattled as he was after Randy Orton had his way in that war of words.
[Graves] You don't often see The Tribal Chief sweat,
but The Viper is no typical Superstar.
This is one of the all-time greats, live and in living color,
with his sights set on the top of the mountain.
[Cole] Like we said at the top of the broadcast,
the landscape has changed…
since the last time we saw Roman Reigns.
♪ They talk to me ♪
♪ They tell me things that I will do ♪
♪ They show me things I'll do to you ♪
♪ They talk to me ♪
[crowd cheering]
[Patrick] A sight to behold here in front of a packed house in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
["Born A King" playing]
♪ Uso! ♪
[Rome] And his opponent, from San Francisco, California,
weighing in at 251 pounds,
Jimmy Uso!
[Patrick] So, Jimmy Uso looks his jovial self but, Corey,
backstage moments ago, he said to Solo Sikoa,
"Does this feel like a setup?"
[Graves] Jimmy Uso right now is like a duck on the pond.
On the surface, everything looks cool, calm, and collected,
but underneath the surface is where the turmoil lies.
The paranoia that's begun to creep in to Jimmy Uso's mind
after being passed over as the heir to The Head of the Table,
in favor of Solo Sikoa, his own brother.
[Cole] Is it paranoia though?
I mean, it seemed pretty, uh, pretty open to me
that Roman Reigns said The Tribal Heir…
is Solo Sikoa.
[Patrick] Tonight's main event is sponsored by Wingstop.
And off we go.
It's a hot start from Randy Orton.
[Graves] Well, remember what The Usos did to Randy Orton,
cost him 18 months of his career and he will not forget.
[Patrick] "And now I will take everything from you."
The words of Randy Orton earlier on tonight,
talking to Roman Reigns.
[Graves] Jimmy Uso getting out of dodge for the moment.
[crowd booing]
Timeout.
[Graves] I didn't think I would ever miss our announce table
being assailed by The Viper,
but Randy Orton just slammed Jimmy Uso right here in front of us.
Listen to this impact.
[crowd roaring]
-[heavy thud] -[Patrick] Just thunderous!
[Graves] And I don't think The Viper is done yet.
[Cole] Not by a long shot.
[Patrick] Here we go again!
Just pulverizing the back of Jimmy Uso.
[Graves] Well, that's plenty of reason…
to be paranoid if you're Jimmy Uso.
[Cole] Well, treating Jimmy Uso the way The Usos treated Randy Orton
a couple of years ago.
-Cover by The Viper. -Randy Orton, can he put away Jimmy early?
Who kicks out. Corey, you're spot on.
Randy Orton is back looking better than ever.
[Graves] I know. I usually am.
[Patrick] So rapid, full of aggression.
Eighteen months thinking about The Bloodline.
[Graves] It wasn't just sitting at home thinking, KP, he was seething.
Randy Orton was angry in his bones, waiting for the opportunity,
wondering if it would ever come to step back in a ring in WWE
and take out The Bloodline.
And it could all begin tonight.
Which is why this is a monumental task for Jimmy Uso,
who was assigned to take out Orton by The Tribal Chief.
Jimmy has marching orders tonight
not to let Randy get anywhere near Roman Reigns
in this championship.
[Patrick] I think we just saw a tooth fall out of Jimmy Uso's mouth.
Corey, why exactly do you think Roman Reigns sent Jimmy alone?
What's the reason behind this?
[Graves] Well, again, we saw at the beginning of the night
that Roman appeared to be rattled.
And when The Head of the Table gets rattled,
you eliminate the threat.
Obviously, Roman trusts Jimmy Uso.
This may be an instance of tough love, but Roman's heart's in the right place.
That's why The Bloodline has been so dominant.
-[crowd] Nine! -[Patrick] Cole, let's be honest,
where would Roman Reigns be without Jimmy Uso in recent months?
[Cole] He wouldn't be champion.
[crowd wailing] Ten!
[Cole] I mean, just look back at Crown Jewel
and the battle against LA Knight.
Look at all that The Usos have done for him and The Bloodline over the years.
There's a reason he's been champion over 1,200 days.
[Patrick] Orton just having his way with Jimmy Uso.
You wonder what Roman Reigns is thinking watching on.
[Graves] Oh, Romans has felt the wrath--
Roman has felt the wrath of The Viper in the past.
Watching as Randy methodically stomps away at the anatomy of Jimmy Uso.
-One, two, three, four. -If you don't stop cheatin' on me…
Come on, Randy! Five, and that's it.
[Cole] Again, Jimmy Uso needs this match to prove himself to Roman Reigns.
[crowd chanting] Randy! Randy! Randy!
[Cole] I mean, emotionally, he's got to be in a bad state
after Roman said that Solo's The Tribal Heir.
[Graves] Well, listen, if you're Jimmy, you use that as motivation.
You use that as personal motivation to show Roman
that maybe he made the wrong decision.
[Patrick] Or does it creep into frustration, where you wonder,
"What more do I have to do to please Roman Reigns?"
[Graves] It could go either way.
It really depends on what Jimmy Uso is made of inside of his mind.
[Patrick] Looks like motivation right now as Jimmy Uso hammering away at Orton.
Eyes on The Apex Predator.
[Graves] Ferocity on the face of Jimmy Uso.
[Graves groans]
Backing it up, and Orton in trouble.
[Patrick] Cover for Jimmy Uso.
What a vital win this would be, but Randy Orton out in time.
-[Graves] Take a look at the impact. Boom! -[Patrick] Boom!
[Graves] Full speed ahead across the entire ring,
rattling the brain of Randy Orton.
And this is what we need to see from Jimmy Uso.
This is what Roman likes to see. This ruthlessness.
The will to stop at nothing to get the job done.
Four!
[Patrick] Why The Bloodline have been so successful.
And Roman's historic reign continues.
[crowd booing]
Cole, Jimmy Uso looks more motivated than ever here
to get the job done for The Tribal Chief.
[Cole] Again, he has to. Roman Reigns wants nothing to do with Randy Orton.
I can guarantee you that. Roman Reigns sits out here and talks a big game.
He doesn't want to see Randy Orton at the Royal Rumble.
He wants Jimmy Uso to take care of him tonight.
[referee] Out of the ropes, Jimmy! Come on!
[Patrick] So much has played out tonight.
It was Randy Orton, as you mentioned, making that challenge to Roman Reigns
for the Royal Rumble.
Nothing confirmed.
[Cole] Oh!
[laughing] Classic Orton.
[Graves] Old Greco-Roman thumb to the eye.
[Patrick] Now, just tossing Jimmy Uso to the outside.
Here we go!
[Graves] Cole, please take the honors.
[Cole] Oh, I will.
Oh, maybe not.
Jimmy Uso knocking [indistinct].
[Graves] Orton landed hard on his knee.
[Patrick] Can Randy Orton recover from this?
[Graves] The Viper's hurt.
[groans]
[Patrick] You're watching the main event of Friday Night SmackDown,
"The Viper" Randy Orton and Jimmy Uso, and what a battle this has been.
Randy Orton proclaims to take down The Bloodline one by one
and end with Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble.
Jimmy Uso's task is clear from The Tribal Chief.
He's got to end Randy Orton tonight and by himself.
[Cole] Oh!
Here comes Orton.
[Graves] Jimmy Uso did his homework, had it well scouted.
-[Patrick] There it is. -[Graves] Not well enough. [laughs]
Just that quickly, Orton turns the tides of momentum back into his own favor.
[Patrick] Taking the wind out of the sails of Jimmy Uso.
Trying to create some separation, but Orton stalking him now.
[Cole] Oh, wise move by Jimmy.
Oh, Jimmy Uso!
Oh, Jimmy--
[Patrick] Such a big time match for both Superstars.
Is this the time, Cole?
[yelling]
[Cole] Vintage Orton!
[Graves] That could be the beginning of the end for Jimmy Uso.
[crowd cheering]
Randy hears them.
Randy hears the voices.
[Patrick] The Viper ready to feast.
[crowd cheering]
["Taking It All" playing] ♪ Taking it all ♪
[Graves] And here comes The Enforcer of The Bloodline.
It should come as no surprise.
[Cole] Yeah, Jimmy Uso was in trouble,
about to be put away by Randy Orton and The Tribal Heir--
♪ LA Knight ♪
-[Graves] Wait, wait, wait. -[Patrick] Oh-ho-ho!
["Welcome To LA" playing]
[Graves] It's the defiant LA Knight bringing the fight to Solo,
but remember, Orton didn't want to see…
[Cole] RKO!
[Patrick] Orton quickly across to put away Jimmy Uso.
-He's done it. -[bell rings]
♪ I hear voices in my head ♪
[Rome] Here is your winner,
Randy Orton!
[Cole] Not quite what Randy was expecting.
[Graves] Well, Randy made it, I thought, relatively clear
that The Viper had no interest in doing business with LA Knight.
Why you just got that win, right?
[Graves] But the bond of a common enemy in The Bloodline.
I knew it was time,
and I knew they were coming.
[Patrick] That opened the door for LA--
[Cole] Oh.
[Graves] It's Roman Reigns.
[Cole] Get business done yourself.
[crowd booing]
[Cole] Orton is poised and ready. What does The Tribal Chief do?
[crowd booing]
[crowd chanting] Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy!
Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy! Randy!
[Graves] We're going to do this now!
[Patrick] Here we go!
[Graves] Roman Reigns, Randy Orton, toe to toe.
[Cole] What Orton wanted.
[Patrick] It's what everybody watching wanted
as Randy Orton takes the fight to Roman Reigns.
[Graves] But Jimmy Uso from behind.
[Cole] And again, the story of The Bloodline,
the numbers game, having The Tribal Chief's back.
[Graves] Reigns has the guillotine cinched in.
[Patrick] Kicking the back that was injured
and had Randy Orton out for 18 months.
[Graves] Identify the threat and eliminate it.
That's what we're seeing.
And LA Knight's back!
[Patrick] The Megastar will not go away.
He's got his issues, of course, with The Bloodline, but Solo from behind.
[Cole] And again, Solo beating down LA Knight.
Orton's been taken out.
[Patrick] The numbers spell trouble for LA Knight and Randy Orton.
[Graves] It's obvious Roman Reigns felt threatened
and The Bloodline is going scorched earth right now.
[Cole] And the pack-like mentality of The Bloodline in full force.
And if Roman has his way, Orton and LA Knight will be no longer.
["Phenomenal" playing]
[inaudible]
[Patrick] Could it be?
[Graves] Turn around, Roman!
-AJ Styles! -[Patrick] AJ Styles!
[Patrick] AJ! Phenomenal Forearm!
[Graves] AJ Styles evening the odds.
[Cole] Another man who's got a bone to pick with The Bloodline.
[Graves] Styles coming from the WWE Universe to even the score.
[Patrick] And man, did he do it!
[Cole] The Bloodline has made a lot of enemies,
and they're staring at three of them in the ring.
[indistinct yelling]
[Graves] When is the last time we saw The Bloodline in retreat?
[crowd cheering]
["Phenomenal" playing]
[Cole] The Bloodline has wronged these three men.
And there's going to be hell to pay.
[Graves] We haven't seen Styles since Solo disposed of him
with a vicious attack backstage.
[Patrick] An attack that sent AJ--
-[Graves] Wait, wait, wait. -[Patrick] Wait, what?
[crowd buzzing]
[crowd booing]
[man] Yeah, AJ!
[Graves] Trust me, you at home watching
are all as confused as we are about what we just witnessed.
First the RKO. No confusion there.
LA Knight attacked from behind by "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns
who, moments later, would come to blows in the ring with Randy Orton.
Chaos would ensue when a returning AJ Styles
drops Roman Reigns with a Phenomenal Forearm.
The numbers at even.
The Bloodline forced to retreat after the arrival of Styles.
But as AJ Styles, LA Knight, and Randy Orton stood side by side, this…
an inexplicable attack
by "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles to LA Knight.
And AJ just walked out of the arena past The Bloodline.
This is the only thing that matters.
♪ I hear voices in my head ♪
♪ They counsel me… ♪
[Graves] Next week, we'll have more questions than answers,
but it will be huge.
[Patrick] Most definitely will, here on Friday Night SmackDown.
We've got a Holiday Havoc coming your way.
An 8-Woman Tag Team Match
as Bianca Belair and her team look to take down Damage CTRL.
[Graves] And the semifinals of the United States Championship Tournament.
Who will advance to challenge Logan Paul?
We'll find out who gets one step closer next week.
Lashley, Escobar, Owens, Hayes.
[Cole] I can't wait to hear what AJ Styles has to say.
[Patrick] But when it's all said and done,
"The Viper" Randy Orton has started his quest
to take down The Bloodline one by one.
[Graves] Roman Reigns learning what it feels like to be the hunted.
It don't matter who you bring back. [continues indistinctly] unted.