[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.
[crowd cheers]
Together.
[music fades]
[Irvin] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome the return
of a former WWE Champion…
[music drops]
-Jinder Mahal! -[crowd boos]
You have the audacity to be disappointed at the return of the Modern Day Maharaja!
[speaking Punjabi]
♪ If you smell what The Rock is cookin'! ♪
[crowd cheers]
[crowd chants] Rocky!
[The Rock] Finally,
The Rock has come back to San Diego.
[crowd cheers]
[Cole] Mahal went right after The Rock!
Spinebuster!
The most electrifying move in all of entertainment!
-The People's Elbow! -[crowd cheers]
[The Rock] One more thing.
Tonight,
after all this ass kicking,
I'm gonna go get something to eat.
Should The Rock sit in a booth?
Should The Rock sit at the bar?
Or… should The Rock sit…
at the Head of the Table?
[crowd cheers]
If you smell
what The Rock is cookin'.
[crowd chants] Rocky!
[chanting fades]
[crowd chants] Rocky!
[chants cease]
[crowd gasping and clamoring]
[crowd cheers]
Excuse me, Roman, do you have any comments
about what The Rock said this past Monday night on Raw?
[laughs]
["Nobody Better Than Me" by def rebel playing]
[Graves] The Tribal Chief has arrived at the sold-out Rogers Arena
in Vancouver, Canada for this New Year's Revolution,
a blockbuster edition of Friday Night SmackDown
that's sponsored by Progressive.
A triple threat of protection with home, auto and more.
["Fight" by CFO$ playing]
[crowd cheers]
[bell rings]
[Rome] The following is Cup Finals
of the United States Championship Tournament!
Introducing first, from Marieville, Quebec, Canada,
weighing in at 266 pounds,
Kevin Owens!
[Patrick] Broken hand and all,
Kevin Owens is primed and ready here tonight
as we welcome you ringside.
Happy New Year to you and yours, folks.
Delighted you're with us. Kevin Patrick, Corey Graves.
This is a monumental night to kick things off.
Talk about kicking off 2024 with a bang! How about our main event tonight?
A Premium Live Event worthy matchup,
which will see AJ Styles versus Randy Orton versus LA Knight,
with the winner advancing to the Royal Rumble
to challenge The Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns.
[Patrick] The Royal Rumble rapidly approaching three weeks from Saturday.
["Legacy Of The Ghost" playing]
[Rome] And his opponent, accompanied by Angel and Humberto,
weighing 204 pounds,
from Mexico City, Mexico,
Santos Escobar!
[Patrick] Unrecognizable from months ago.
Santos Escobar flanked by Angel and Humberto,
now within touching distance of that opportunity
for the United States Championship.
[Graves] Santos Escobar, who had to get through Dragon Lee
and Bobby Lashley to reach this point.
Kevin Owens had to outlast Austin Theory and NXT Superstar Carmelo Hayes.
[whistling]
[Patrick] Gravy, it's also a Championship Match here tonight on SmackDown.
Iyo Sky putting her title on the line against Michin,
who's been in sensational form of late.
[Graves] Keep your eyes peeled for that one.
But right now, it's all about the finals
of the United States Championship Tournament.
Which of these two men will challenge Logan Paul come the Royal Rumble?
We will get our answer in a matter of moments,
but we'd be remiss if we didn't mention Angel and Humberto,
who have aligned themselves with Santos Escobar,
thus making Escobar exponentially more dangerous in this environment.
And Kevin Owens had better keep his head on a swivel.
["Take Flight" playing]
[Graves laughs] For more reasons than one.
[Patrick] Just as the bell was about to ring, the champ is here.
[Rome] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
the United States Champion,
Logan Paul!
[Graves] What a fantastic surprise to kick off New Year's Revolution.
The Maverick himself, the United States Champion,
the social media Megastar,
The Disruptor himself, Logan Paul. Logan…
Join us, won't you?
[Patrick] What a treat this is.
Logan Paul joining us at the commentary desk.
-[Logan] It's an honor. -[bell rings]
[Graves] The honor is all of ours, Logan.
Whoa, whoa. Hey, whoa, whoa!
Joaquin Wilde and Cruz Del Toro, the LWO.
[Patrick] They've got a cross to bear with Santos Escobar,
-who can only watch on. -Kevin Owens has to be enjoying this.
This is gonna neutralize the threat
that would have been Angel and Humberto.
[Logan] Starting off hot, boys.
[Patrick] Scrapping all the way up the ramp they go.
[Logan] Oh, I can't wait for this.
[Patrick] There goes the numbers advantage.
[Logan laughs]
[Graves] Superkick out of the gate!
-Clear the deck, KO! -[Logan] There it is.
Just pulverizing Santos Escobar.
Kevin Owens making the climb to the top rope.
Going for broke.
[Patrick] Could be over early. Splash all over Escobar!
Grabs the broken hand,
but in for the cover now to qualify and a kickout from Santos.
Who's gonna qualify here to face Logan Paul at the Royal Rumble?
[Patrick] Welcome back, folks.
This is the final of the United States Championship Tournament.
Kevin Owens on top here against Santos Escobar.
[Graves] Kevin Owens right now, broken right hand and all,
staring a hole through our guest at ringside,
the United States Champion himself, Logan Paul.
Logan, I know you've been watching this tournament since its inception.
What have you been most impressed by?
[Logan] Uh, absolutely no one. You know, these boys want what I have,
and I use the terms boys very specifically.
Kevin Owens looks like he raided a teenager's closet the way he dresses.
I can't tell if he's going to a field trip or a wrestling match.
[Patrick] You've had a lot of insulting
and disparaging things to say, Logan, about Kevin Owens.
You fear that might come back to haunt you?
[Logan] Uh, yeah, no, I don't know what you're talking about.
[Graves] Oh God! That could do it for Kevin Owens.
Escobar wisely attacking the damaged right hand.
[Patrick] Kevin Owens, who continues to fight with that broken hand.
[Logan] You ain't gonna be nothing, Escobar.
Broken hand, he brittle.
[Graves] Another look at that Escobar slam.
Oh, and again, Santos focusing on the broken right hand of Kevin Owens.
Multiple headbutts.
-Kevin Owens-- -Logan, have you been impressed
thus far with Santos Escobar?
[Logan] You know, I like Santos because in a roundabout way,
indirectly, he helped me become the US Champ.
[Patrick] But you said you're not concerned
because you've already beaten the greatest luchador of all time.
[Logan] That's a fact. Santos is not even on my mind.
[Patrick] KO now gathering-- look at Santos Escobar!
[Graves] Beautiful Backbreaker.
Escobar doing his best to make his way into your mind, Champ.
[Logan] It's funny. I feel like a lot of people wanna be there.
You know, it's crazy being at the epicenter of all the attention.
[Patrick] Working on the broken hand now of Kevin Owens.
-I'll break it again! -[indistinct chatter]
Logan, the Royal Rumble rapidly approaching,
just over three weeks away.
Do you have any surprises planned for the Royal Rumble?
I know it's gonna be a massive event. I know you always show up and show out.
[Logan] Yeah, sure. I just started lifting weights,
so I do plan to come with some extra muscle this year.
[Graves] Yeah, just now? You just began lifting weights.
[Logan] I'm serious, actually. I swear.
[laughter]
[Patrick] Again, targeting the broken hand of Owens.
Kevin Owens, who qualified by beating Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes.
This may be a step too far as Escobar is gaining momentum now.
[Logan] You know, I really thought it was gonna be Carmelo Hayes.
[Graves] Carmelo Hayes certainly impressive
making it to the second round before just narrowly losing out
to Kevin Owens, and Escobar with another takedown of Owens.
[Patrick] Emperor is the man. Santos Escobar says this is his time.
-The Suicide Dive to the outside. -Nearly put Owens through the barricade.
That must be a thick barricade to protect a man like that.
[Graves] 260 plus pounds of Owens crashing into the barricade,
Santos Escobar pulling some lucha libre out of his arsenal.
[Patrick] Logan, you're talking about KO,
a three-time United States Champion, a Grand Slam Champion in WWE.
[Logan] Yeah. You know, I don't know how a Canadian can be the United States,
again, United States Champion.
I don't know how he did it.
But, you know, he's a contender, I'll be honest.
Kevin Owens certainly fighting with extra motivation tonight in his native Canada.
-Something of a hometown hero. -[crowd] Logan sucks!
-[Logan] Disrespectful! -The Canadian fans right now
have gotten under Logan's skin such that
he's actually left the commentary table for a moment,
took his headset off and everything.
[crowd chanting] Logan sucks!
[Patrick] "Logan sucks" is the chants in case anyone's curious.
Yeah! I can't hear y'all.
[Patrick] Escobar now, heading up toward the top rope, hammered down by Owens.
[Graves] Owens, predominantly a right-handed fighter,
obviously, you see dropping some lefts as well.
Looking for something spectacular.
Escobar. Those shots to the body of Owens.
Logan, I got to admit, I feel a little bad for you.
Coming all the way up here to Canada, north of the border,
and be disrespected like that by the WWE Universe.
[Logan] I feel bad I can't kick some butt today.
Flew all the way here from Puerto Rico, and I can't whoop some--
[Patrick] Oh, spiking Escobar!
[Graves] That could do it for Owens
if Kevin can gain his wits about him
and execute a cover, Escobar may be down for three.
[Patrick] Once more Owens grabbing the broken hand.
Fight, Owens, fight.
[Graves] Owens again.
[Logan] He got no pain tolerance. That's what I'm seeing.
[Graves] You see no pain tolerance from Kevin Owens?
[Logan] I see he got no pain tolerance.
I'm sure Owens would disagree with you. Santos Escobar maybe as well.
Looking to join Owens up on the top rope.
Precarious position for both Superstars.
Punk warned Superstars before about going to the top rope with Kevin Owens, Corey?
[Graves] Sure did.
Logan whatever you do, never, ever, ever try to superplex Kevin Owens.
-[Logan] Or what? -[Graves] This.
KO from the top rope!
[crowd cheers]
Obviously, Escobar didn't do his homework.
Kevin Owens in control.
Who is gonna challenge Logan Paul at the Royal Rumble?
[Patrick] The stakes enormous in this opening match here,
New Year's Revolution, Kevin Owens, Santos Escobar.
Who's gonna book their place to challenge Logan Paul at the Royal Rumble?
[Graves] Both Superstars were jockeying for position on the top turnbuckle.
Now, in a slightly safer position, are both men.
Logan, when you look at these two guys, knowing that one of them will advance
to the Royal Rumble to challenge you for the United States Championship,
these are two Superstars who have dedicated their lives to this industry,
who have scratched and clawed for everything they've got.
They've dedicated everything and sacrificed.
Does that not give you pause a little bit?
[Logan] Not at all. You got to work smarter, not harder.
And if you're like a Kevin Owens or Santos Escobar,
it's hard to work smart when you have absolutely no brain.
Right. I've been doing this a year and a half, Corey.
These guys have worked their whole lives
and everyone is in this tournament to get what I have.
They want what I have. I'm a star.
[Patrick] Oh!
Kevin Owens from the apron.
[Graves] Are you sure that's not giving you a little bit to think about?
Not at all. Not at all. I'm dealing with stars.
Patrick Mahomes. Erling Haaland.
Superstars building a billion-dollar Prime business.
I ain't worried about this guy. Although, I mean--
[Patrick] Oh! The knees were up.
The knees were up from Escobar.
[Graves] At the last possible second Santos Escobar avoids disaster.
Now lining up Owens in the opposite corner.
[Patrick] Escobar at pace.
Knees colliding with the jaw of Owens.
Now Escobar to the top rope.
Down goes Owens. This could do it!
If Escobar can get in for the cover.
Taking his time now.
[Graves] Escobar looking for a little insurance to make sure KO stays down.
[Logan] I'd love to beat another luchador. Come on!
-[Patrick] Escobar. -[Graves] You may get your chance, Logan.
[Patrick] In for the cover to qualify to face Logan Paul and KO kicks out.
[Graves] You have to respect the toughness,
the guts, the will of Kevin Owens.
[Logan] I don't.
[Graves] You don't? Not even a little bit?
This is happening feet in front of you, Champ.
And you're not even a little bit impressed?
-I'm impressed. -[crowd chants] Logan sucks!
[Patrick] I don't know if he wanted to answer your question, Corey.
[Graves] It's hard to concentrate when you've got
thousands and thousands of angry Canadians yelling at you.
[Patrick] Sold out tonight, 13,800.
None, I'm sure, are fond of Logan Paul.
[Graves] Escobar now, kick to Owens.
[Logan] I take back what I said.
While I don't respect Kevin Owens
because he Stunnered me at my first WrestleMania, and I'll never forget that,
and I'll never forgive him,
and I'm taking that to the grave, Corey Graves.
[Graves] You remember what it feels like? You don't want that happening again.
[Logan] Never.
I do commend his ability as a wrestler.
Like I said, the way he moves his frame around the ring impresses me.
And for that, Kevin Owens…
[Graves] Oh!
[Logan] …I'm more than happy to beat him.
[Graves] Well, you may have your opportunity,
but it looks like Escobar is looking to turn the tides.
But Kevin Owens now middle rope. Wow!
-Rolling Senton. Cover. -[Patrick] Wasting no time
to qualify, can Owens do it? And Escobar kicking out.
[cackling]
[Graves] Logan, both of these men are leaving it all in the ring
for the right to challenge for your United States Championship…
-[Logan] That's crazy. -…at the Royal Rumble.
And everybody started to believe that man would be Kevin Owens,
but we have to give Santos Escobar his flowers.
You've got to be a little impressed with his resilience, no?
I am, I am.
They both got, uh, they both got cool tattoos.
I can see from this angle.
Kevin got a T-Rex tattoo, I like T-Rex.
[Patrick] Never quits.
Will always fight. Kevin Owens.
Both Superstars back on their feet now.
[Graves] Owens looking for the Stunner.
[Patrick] Escobar may have turned it around!
Shoulders are down here and Owens kicks out.
[Logan] Owens looking for the Stunner. [laughs]
Stone Cold called, he wants his finisher back.
[Patrick] Oh, Superkick!
Owens, looking for the pop-up Powerbomb, Escobar turns it around.
[Graves] Great counter by Santos.
[Patrick] Owens, this time with that pop-up Powerbomb.
[Graves] Escobar went to the well one time too many
and Owens made him pay.
[Patrick] What determination.
[Graves] You can see what it means to Kevin Owens. Stunner!
Stunner from Owens to book his place at the Royal Rumble to face Logan Paul.
-Here we go. -[Rome] Here is your winner, Kevin Owens!
[Logan] Here we go.
[Graves] Well, there you have it. It will be The Prize Fighter.
[Logan] You don't have it yet. I got something to say.
[Graves] We don't have it yet, according to the United States Champion,
I'm inclined to defer to Logan Paul.
[crowd booing]
Ooh. Congrats, Kevin Owens.
You won.
You get to face the greatest United States Champ in history.
Hey, look at this guy.
Look at you, dawg. Sweating, out of breath.
I haven't even broken a sweat
and I've retained my title for 62 days.
[Patrick] Hasn't defended it.
Come on, y'all. Besides, let's be honest,
y'all thought a Canadian,
a Canadian could ever have the United States Championship?
[crowd boos]
The United States Championship.
Kevin, brother, you beating me for the US Title
is like the Canucks winning a Stanley Cup.
[crowd boos]
-[Graves] No lies detected, KP. -It's never gonna happen!
And y'all know why it's never gonna happen?
-Because, Kevin, I am Logan-- -[commentators exclaiming]
[Graves] Kevin Owens just KO'd Logan Paul with the cast on that broken right hand.
[Patrick] Well, that shut Logan up pretty quickly.
The atmosphere here tonight in Vancouver is already electric.
It's obvious Kevin Owens has his sights set on Logan Paul at the Royal Rumble.
Yeah, and gold is what three elite Superstars have their mind on tonight.
Who's gonna enter the Island of Relevancy at the Royal Rumble
and challenge Roman Reigns? Will it be LA Knight?
Will it be AJ Styles,
or will it be this vengeful Viper?
[Orton] For 18 months, I have been thinking about this moment.
[yelling]
[Cole] The Bloodline. Wreckage of humanity.
[Orton] Roman Reigns, you took 18 months from me,
so I'm coming for you.
[tense music playing]
[crowd chants] Randy!
♪ I hear voices ♪
[Cole] For the first time in a year and a half,
Randy Orton's back!
[Orton] Daddy's back.
I've got a bag full of receipts for The Bloodline.
[Cole] Vintage Orton.
[Orton] Those receipts are gonna come in the form of
the three most dangerous letters in all of sports entertainment.
[crowd chants] RKO!
[Cole] Styles, Knight, Orton. Triple Threat at New Year's Revolution.
Who's gonna challenge The Tribal Chief?
[Orton] Nobody tells Randy Orton what to do.
[Patrick] Randy Orton is here to fight.
[Cole] The 14-time World Champion.
[Orton] It starts tonight.
It ends at the Royal Rumble for the WWE Championship.
[Graves] It is personal tonight for The Viper,
The Megastar, and The Phenomenal One.
But only one man will earn the right to face Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble.
It's a Triple Threat Match and it's tonight.
[Patrick] Roll on the main event from here in Vancouver, Canada.
["All Mighty" playing]
[Patrick] Looking more jacked and more dapper than ever before.
"The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley and the magnetic Street Profits
are here to kick off the new year live on SmackDown.
[Rome] Ladies and gentlemen,
please welcome The Street Profits
and "The All Mighty"
Bobby Lashley!
[Graves] According to The All Mighty and The Street Profits,
2024 already belongs to them.
What is on their minds?
We will find out in a matter of moments
live on Friday Night SmackDown.
[Patrick] Folks, major news broke yesterday.
WWE is Toronto-bound for one of the biggest weekends of the year.
The Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Canada,
will play host to this year's Money in the Bank
Premium Live Event on Saturday, July 6th.
Toronto joins Perth, Australia, Lyon, France and Berlin, Germany,
as cities around the world hosting major WWE shows this year.
Now, the Money in the Bank Toronto weekend
kicks off with SmackDown on July 5th
and concludes with NXT Heatwave on Sunday, July 7th.
A bumper weekend in store in Toronto.
[groans]
Oh, wow.
Would you mind calling my mom?
I don't have her number, but we'll figure it out.
Excuse me, Logan. Logan, it's official.
At Royal Rumble, your United States Championship
will be on the line against Kevin Owens.
And broken hand or not, he did get a punch in.
Are you serious right now? You all right, man?
Logan can't do an interview right now. You see what Kevin just did to him?
Gotta get you to the Trainer's Room.
-Yeah. Let's go. -That was disgusting. I can't.
-Here we go, here we go. -[laughing]
-Glad to see you met Kevin. [laughs] -That's funny, huh?
-[overlapping chatter]
Knock it off! Let's go, man.
Don't worry about that guy. He's a bully. He's a fool.
[Graves] Good thing Logan has good friends like Grayson Waller and Austin Theory.
[Patrick] Well, folks, Friday Night SmackDown
is sponsored by Progressive Insurance.
Save when you bundle auto, home, or motorcycle insurance.
Welcome to New Year's Revolution.
[crowd cheers]
And I'm gonna get a little personal with you guys for a second.
2023 was probably the toughest year of my career in WWE.
[clears throat]
Not because I didn't put in the work,
because the work that I put in didn't translate
into the results that I wish I would have wanted.
But of 2023,
the highlight of 2023 was linking up with two of the greatest Superstars
and the greatest tag team in WWE,
my boys, The Street Profits.
So our resolution is very simple.
We are gonna fight for
and we are gonna take everything that we deserve in 2024.
[crowd cheers]
Guys, listen to Bobby.
See, Bobby, Dawks, and I, we're gonna hop on the trend.
[crowd chants] Bobby!
See, Bobby, [stammering] they, they, they know!
We're gonna hop on the trend.
But we're gonna fast forward to the part
where we think that the grass is much greener on the other side.
So… But what we will do…
is take full advantage of every opportunity
when it comes to capturing championship gold.
Yes, sir. Yes, sir.
And look, it's been a while since me and Tez had those Tag Team Championships.
So, Judgment Day…
you might wanna keep your head on a swivel on Raw.
And not only that, Big Money Bob…
headed straight to the top.
And my personal goal for 2024 is
to get back to being The All Mighty.
And I'm gonna do that by officially declaring myself
for the 2024 Royal Rumble Match.
[chuckles]
[crowd chanting] Bobby!
[eerie music]
Do you see… the vision?
You will.
[Patrick] Karrion Kross…
and Scarlett…
[Graves] Oh my God.
That's… that's Paul Ellering!
And from behind!
That's… that's AOP!
Rezar and Akam!
Dropping hammer fists on Lashley and The Street Profits!
[Patrick] Just battering Bobby Lashley and The Profits.
And Karrion Kross… will do the same.
[Graves] I don't like the looks of this.
Karrion Kross and AOP…
-as an unholy union. -Pack them up!
[Patrick] What the hell are we witnessing?
[Graves] We haven't seen AOP in almost four years!
Super Collider!
[Patrick] Akam and Rezar…
with Karrion Kross by their side.
[Graves] KP, have we ever seen anyone manhandle The All Mighty like this?
[Patrick] No, is your answer.
Oh my God!
[Graves] Karrion Kross…
flanked by Rezar and Akam.
AOP, over 600 pounds of unbridled destruction
led by the mastermind…
Paul Ellering.
Look at this. Karrion Kross looking to make a statement.
Looking to make an impact…
here at New Year's Revolution.
And did so in a colossal way.
The Super Collider!
Dawkins and Ford nearly put through the ring.
The All Mighty…
taking a trip on the downward spiral.
And Hell is empty.
All the devils are here.
[Patrick] Ellering. You think Road Warriors, Legion of Doom…
and now here tonight on SmackDown.
Ellering is one of, if not, the most successful manager
in tag team sports entertainment history.
This looks bad for all of Friday Night SmackDown.
It's gonna be bad for The All Mighty's health
if it keeps up this way.
Speaking of being bad for health, Gravy,
it looked really, really bad for AJ Styles just a few months ago.
And since being healthy, and returning to WWE, Styles…
he's been spitting fire. And you can't blame him.
The Bloodline nearly cost him everything.
[tense music playing]
[Cole] That's Jimmy Uso beating the hell out of Styles.
-Oh my God! -No!
[explosion pops]
[Patrick] The numbers spell trouble for LA Knight and Randy Orton.
[Graves] Could it be… AJ Styles!
Phenomenal forearm!
AJ Styles evening the odds!
[Cole] The Bloodline has made a lot of enemies…
and there's gonna be hell to pay.
[AJ] I don't give a damn about Randy Orton or LA Knight.
Oh, you forget so easily that you stepped over my dead body
to tag with Cena against The Bloodline.
[bell rings]
[Graves] Judging by AJ's appearance, this is a very, very different man
than we last saw.
I am number one when it comes to getting his hands on Roman Reigns.
Randy Orton, LA Knight, or anyone else gets in my way…
I'll drop them too.
I want Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble.
[upbeat music plays]
[Patrick] A fired-up AJ Styles, who wants the ultimate retribution
against Roman Reigns.
But to get there he'll have to outlast two other worthy challengers
in "The Legend Killer" Randy Orton
and the fast-rising Megastar, LA Knight.
Who is going to emerge victorious and head to the Royal Rumble?
This match in our main event tonight.
[Graves] We've got more gold up for grabs right now.
♪ I am, I am, I am the one Ain't hard to see ♪
[bell rings]
[Rome] The following contest scheduled for one fall
is for the WWE Women's Championship!
[explosion pops]
Introducing first, accompanied by Gallows and Anderson representing the OC,
Michin!
[Patrick] Gallows and Anderson wishing Michin well
as she heads to the ring for what she calls
the biggest match of her career.
Can Michin become the WWE Women's Champion?
She takes on Iyo Sky, and that match is live next!
Sweet baby!
[Patrick] Is tonight the night Michin becomes WWE Women's Champion?
Raring to go now and in flying form after her performance
to close out the year.
Here is our Progressive Match Flow.
[announcer] Match Flow is sponsored by Progressive,
a triple threat of protection with home, auto and more.
[Patrick] Let's get set for a little holiday havoc!
Bianca Belair has assembled every single one
with a cross to bear with Damage CTRL.
Oh, here we go! It's kicking off already!
-[intense music plays] -[crowd cheers]
[Graves] Right on time, Bayley saves the day.
[Patrick] Off the ropes!
[Graves] Michin with the assist. Now, she's going diving!
[Patrick] They've got a table, but watch out!
[crowd boos]
Damage CTRL having their way here.
[Graves] With a Decapitator!
[Patrick] First the pumpkin pie, now the mist, carnage here tonight.
Is that Isla Dawn?
[Graves] And Alba Fyre behind Asuka and Kairi.
Damage CTRL not expecting that.
-Michin now… -Eat Defeat!
[Patrick] Michin with ideas!
[music drops]
Senton through the table!
[Graves] A win for Michin!
[Michin] Now it's my time, and at New Year's Revolution,
it's time for me to remind everyone who Michin is.
[crowd cheers]
["Tokyo Shock" by def rebel playing]
[Rome] And her opponents, accompanied by Dakota Kai
Kairi Sane, Bayley, and Asuka,
representing Damage CTRL,
she is the WWE Women's Champion,
Iyo Sky!
[Patrick] You see what I'm seeing, Corey?
Iyo Sky, the champ, is going it alone
as the rest of Damage CTRL hang back.
[Graves] I agree completely with the strategy
because if you're Iyo Sky,
you want all of the respect of the entire WWE Universe,
of the entire locker room, and to this moment,
Iyo still doesn't feel as though she has that.
She is the reigning WWE Women's Champion.
She is the Pearl of Damage CTRL.
But if Iyo is not careful tonight,
you are dealing with a very dangerous opponent in Michin.
And it's Michin's biggest match of her entire career.
Michin is gonna find out a great deal about herself tonight.
Can she rise to the occasion?
Can Michin meet the moment?
Or will she fall at the feet of Iyo Sky as so many before?
[Patrick] Michin said she's been so focused on helping the boys within The OC,
but it's time to focus on myself, she said.
What an opportunity this is as the bell rings.
The WWE Women's Championship is the prize tonight.
Well, you've referenced "the boys,"
obviously referring to Gallows, Anderson, and even AJ Styles.
And trust me, you don't spend time around those three men
without picking up a great deal of knowledge about this game.
Michin is as well prepared as anybody could be tonight.
[Patrick] Look at the reflexes of Iyo Sky.
What's the strategy for Michin here against the high-flying Iyo Sky?
[Graves] Michin needs to keep Iyo grounded.
It sounds simple, but it is much easier said than done.
Michin needs to utilize some of her martial arts abilities,
maybe even a little bit of a power advantage.
Great athleticism by the WWE Women's Champion Iyo Sky.
[Patrick] The Champion since SummerSlam, Iyo Sky.
You can tell the confidence is absolutely soaring.
So rapid.
-But Michin is so versatile. -Backslide.
[Patrick] Shoulders are down here.
Iyo Sky out in time.
Once more, no wasted time for Michin.
Here to impress and continue this fine momentum.
[Graves] I like the pace that Michin is keeping right now.
She's not getting ahead of herself.
Not trying to speed things up
to the extent that she can make a mistake.
Keep the Champion the target in front of you.
At least as long as you can
because here comes the Champion.
Beautiful roll through, double stomp by Iyo Sky.
[Patrick] Stomping on that midsection.
You know, Bayley took to social media earlier today talking about
how 2024 is the year for Damage CTRL.
Iyo's the champion.
Kabuki Warriors are gonna be champions.
And Bayley, who's declared for the Royal Rumble says she'll win it
and challenge Rhea Ripley.
[Graves] Some mind games for Michin.
Got the better of Iyo in that instance, and here comes the challenger.
Michin gonna fly!
Michin taking out Iyo!
[Patrick] Is this the night?
Can Michin become champion here live on SmackDown?
[Patrick] We're sold out tonight in Vancouver, Canada.
The WWE Women's Championship is the prize tonight.
Michin challenging the champ Iyo Sky.
And what a performance we've seen from Michin so far.
[Graves] Very solid performance thus far by Michin.
But you can have a strong performance,
but all that really matters is the result at the end.
Michin wants to head back to the US as the new WWE Women's Champion.
-[Patrick] Michin now-- -Oh!
Oh great. I think…
Wow!
[Patrick] Pushed away by Iyo Sky.
Michin taking down Iyo! Vicious knee!
[Graves] Rocked the jaw of the champion.
Gutwrench by Michin.
In reference that she would have a power advantage over Iyo
in this matchup. Gutwrench Suplex.
And the Champion now looking for respite in the bottom turnbuckle.
[Patrick] Remember, Damage CTRL went backstage.
Iyo Sky going it alone tonight.
-The target within sight for Michin. -[Graves] Cannonball in the corner.
[Patrick] Cover now. Can she get the championship?
Iyo kicks out.
[Graves] Take another look at the knee
that Michin connected with moments ago.
Right under the chin of Iyo.
[Patrick] Showing that versatility once more.
Looking for Eat Defeat there, Michin.
Big right hand from Iyo.
Iyo Sky continues to grow.
Continues to evolve as champion.
Michin is putting on a show tonight.
[Graves] Michin realizing the magnitude of the opportunity.
The biggest match of her career thus far.
Will be a life changing-- Oh my God!
That's gotta do it!
[Patrick] Gets across quickly to win the championship!
-Can Michin do it? -Wow!
It's a testament to the toughness of the WWE Women's Champion Iyo Sky.
As we look again…
at the knees driven right into the chest of the champion.
And now, Michin perhaps looking for some type of submission.
Maybe a half crab.
It is cinched in.
Michin leaning back.
-Give up! -[Patrick] Will Iyo tap?
Give up!
[Patrick] Close to the ropes and she gets there.
Forcing the break.
[Graves] Now, in my opinion, is when Michin needs to step on the gas.
Pick up the pace. Push the champion beyond her limits.
Michin has done a great job of dictating the pace in this matchup.
But now it's time to step on it.
[Patrick] Iyo clearly feeling the effects, but Iyo back up now and…
hanging Michin's leg over the ropes.
The Genius of the Sky has been flattened.
[Graves] I'm not entirely sure that the Genius of the Sky
knows where she's at right now.
That right hand from Michin rocked the champ.
-[Michin screaming] -[Patrick] Now on the apron.
[Graves] Let's go behind.
-No, no, no, no, no, no! -On the apron!
Crushing the neck of Michin!
[Graves] Bridging German Suplex by Iyo Sky on the apron.
Infamously known as the hardest part of the ring.
[crowd cheering]
[Patrick] Michin has certainly kept Iyo grounded, Corey, as you mentioned.
But the Genius of the Sky finding different ways now.
[Graves] Now Iyo measuring the challenger.
-[Patrick] Oh, she'll fly. -Drop kick right on the money.
[Patrick] Iyo quickly dragging her prey inside.
[screaming]
Is this when the champ will soar?
[Graves] From the top!
Iyo with the Over The Moonsault!
-The knees were up! -Michin got her knees up just in time.
Can the challenger capitalize? Dragon Suplex!
Cover by Michin!
[Patrick] Quickly in to put away Iyo for the championship!
And Iyo gets free once more.
[Graves] Take a look at this.
Iyo looking for the Over The Moonsault.
Her bread and butter.
Michin able to get her knees up just in time.
And then followed immediately by a Dragon Suplex.
And now Michin… could be thinking about ending this.
[Patrick] Instead, Iyo looking to turn it around,
but rolls free and the knees to the jaw of Michin.
[Graves] Stacked and covered!
[Patrick] To retain-- Michin, still alive in this match.
Tonight's Friday Night SmackDown on Fox is sponsored by Progressive.
[Graves] From the top now and again, Michin thwarting Iyo's plans.
[Patrick] Big rights there for Michin.
Iyo within sight.
[Graves] That Shotei…
might have just erased Michin's championship dreams.
[Patrick] Totally rocks Michin.
-Now from the top rope. -[Graves] Uh-oh.
[Patrick] There's that strength of Michin.
[Graves] Great power…
by Michin. Iyo…
in a very, very precarious position.
-Styles Clash! -Wow!
-That's gotta do it! Cover… -A nod to AJ!
…to win the championship! Does she? Oh!
[Patrick] The hand on the ropes! Was it in time?
[Graves] Fantastic ring awareness by the champion.
Take another look at this. From the second rope,
The Styles Clash.
We mentioned how much time Michin has spent with AJ.
How much she has learned.
And Michin came within a fraction of a second of becoming
WWE Women's Champion.
-[Patrick] Can she do it? -Oh God!
[Patrick] Nobody home at all.
A crushing landing.
[screams]
[Graves] Meteora into the barricade.
You can see the urgency in Iyo Sky.
[Patrick] Just when Michin had all the momentum.
How the tide has turned.
And the WWE Women's Champion Iyo Sky…
with the Over The Moonsault.
In for the cover to retain the championship.
[bell rings]
[Rome] Here is your winner and still
the WWE Women's Champion,
Iyo Sky!
[Graves] Listen, credit where it is due.
You have to tip your hat to Michin
for the effort she put up tonight.
Pushing Iyo Sky to the limits.
But here is where it all went south.
Like a belly flop in an empty pool.
And the breathtaking Over The Moonsault
delivered by the Pearl of Damage CTRL.
I like that. I'm gonna keep using it.
Iyo Sky retains her WWE Women's Championship at New Year's Revolution.
[Patrick] What a start to the year for Iyo Sky.
Folks, I'm told that we can now go live backstage
to the special counsel for Roman Reigns,
"The Wiseman" Paul Heyman.
Now, Paul, before we get your thoughts on tonight's main event,
I have to ask, do you have a reaction to The Rock's comments from Monday?
[sighs]
The Rock name drops Roman Reigns
because The Rock wants to sit
at the Head of the Table.
To sit at the Head of the Table,
one must be invited to a Dinner of Relevancy.
The Rock has not been invited.
Nor will he be.
Because The Rock is just like everybody else.
He's looking for a shortcut to the headlines.
There's only two ways in this world to guarantee going viral.
One, date Taylor Swift.
Two, call out Roman Reigns.
Roman Reigns wins a match, out comes John Cena.
Roman Reigns wins a match, out comes Brock Lesnar.
Roman Reigns beats Cody Rhodes.
Cody Rhodes still talking about finishing his damn story.
CM Punk
comes back to WWE after ten years.
Welcome back.
CM Punk says he's the OG Paul Heyman guy, which he is.
Till I upgraded from best friend to advocate.
And upgraded from advocate to Wiseman.
Tonight, Randy Orton, AJ Styles, and LA Knight all fight for the privilege
of getting smashed by Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble.
And the one man that wins tonight
will be smashed by Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble
the same way whomever opposes Roman Reigns in the main event of WrestleMania
will be smashed by your Tribal Chief.
Smashed by the Head of the Table.
Smashed by the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World.
Because there's not one man
on the face of this planet that can beat…
[softly] Roman Reigns.
♪ Yes, boy! ♪
[Graves] Lots of chew on from The Wiseman.
[bell rings]
[Rome] The following contest
is a tag team match scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, Kit Wilson and Elton Prince.
Pretty Deadly!
[Patrick] The fancy lads are here.
Pretty Deadly in action against Butch and who?
We're gonna find out next.
♪ We're pretty deadly ♪
♪ We're pretty… ♪
[screaming]
That was amazing!
What did I tell you? What did I tell you?
2024 is the year of Damage CTRL.
My vision. My vision.
I've seen greatness in all of you guys.
In all of you guys. But greatness needs gold.
And that's exactly what our champion did. You retained your gold.
I knew you'd beat Michin tonight.
-Woo! -[laughter]
Iyo's Era will never end.
-Never! -Never!
You know what else will never end? My plan.
And that is Kabuki Warriors next winning the Tag Team Championships.
-That is right. -Hey, and you know what else?
You are going to win the Rumble.
And you're gonna take that title off Rhea.
-How about that? -Oh my God.
That sounds like a beautiful pl--
Ugh!
Now hold up. I'm not--
[crowd cheering]
I'm not here for a fight.
No, I'm here to congratulate the champion.
So congratulations on a great match tonight.
But you, Bayley, on the other hand, you're getting a little ahead of yourself.
Because that little plan you're talking about?
Yeah, that got a flaw because… [clears throat]
…you're not winning the Royal Rumble.
Because I'm entering the Royal Rumble.
[Bayley snorts]
And I can't wait to KOD you over the top rope.
See what's gonna happen is, I'm gonna win the Royal Rumble for the second time
and then at WrestleMania,
I'm gonna take back my title,
and then the Iyo Era ends.
Oh, and Happy New Years.
[giggles]
[speaking Japanese]
Hey, Iyo is saying that you as the leader,
you need to take care of Bianca, okay?
We can't have her jeopardizing your plan.
Right? Let's go, guys.
[upbeat music plays]
[Graves] Bayley apparently drawing the assignment of taking out Bianca.
[Patrick] The Royal Rumble is sponsored by Cricket.
With fast and powerful nationwide 5G coverage,
you can stress less and smile more.
And by Suicide Squad: Kill The Justice League.
Available February 2nd on PlayStation 5.
The tastiest snacks, huh? Corey, stop dancing, will you?
[Graves] This has been my favorite episode of 2024
Friday Night SmackDown, and it just got even better.
I would invite you to join me in a "Yes, Boy!"
But I know you would humiliate yourself
and Pretty Deadly and the entire nation of Ireland.
[Patrick] Look at the sold-out crowd.
Not one person dancing along with Pretty Deadly.
[Graves] Because they're mesmerized by the giant disco ball,
by the good looks and, potentially, the brutality of Butch.
[explosion pops]
[Patrick] Butch had one task over the holidays.
Find a partner to face Pretty Deadly.
Who's it gonna be, Butch?
["Born Animal" by def rebel playing]
[Graves] Oh ho ho! Okay!
[Rome] And their opponents, the team of Butch and Tyler Bate!
[Graves] If you're a follower of NXT,
you are already familiar with the big strong boy, Tyler Bate.
We know Pretty Deadly is extremely familiar with both Butch and Tyler Bate.
This is a pretty formidable tag team, if maybe not who you would have expected.
[Patrick] They've tagged all around the world before.
They've faced each other many, many times.
Butch and Tyler Bate go back 12 years.
What a selection from Butch.
[Graves] Tyler Bate actually competed in his very first match
in Oxford, England against Butch.
And the two of them since have
really made great names for themselves around the globe.
Here in WWE, both former NXT UK Champions
have had quite a few instant classics in their day.
[Patrick] Tyler Bate, it was Butch who he beat at 19 years of age
to become the youngest NXT UK Champion.
I don't know if we have to worry about chemistry here, Corey,
when it comes to Bate and Butch.
[Graves] Listen, Bate and Butch are two of the men
who are responsible for globally popularizing
what we now know as British Strong Style.
A very unique form of in-ring competition.
I just hope Kit and Elton are prepared.
They didn't have any time to plan for Tyler Bate.
[Patrick] A SmackDown debut for Tyler Bate, who's struggling here already.
Kit Wilson in control.
Well, Tyler Bate is so quick. He's so strong.
And what Tyler Bate lacks in height, he more than compensates for in raw power
and technique.
Bate, pound for pound.
-[Patrick laughs] -Case in point.
Pound for pound, one of the strongest athletes in WWE.
[Patrick] So rapid with his movements.
[Graves] Utilizing a traditional British style of wrestling with a little update.
Just toying here with Pretty Deadly, something we don't see too often.
Shoulders are down here and Wilson kicking out.
[Graves] Dropkick.
Right in the moneymaker of Kit Wilson.
And Tyler Bate impressing
the WWE Universe here in Vancouver.
[Patrick] The tag was made here.
A frantic tag at that now for Elton Prince.
Dramatically hits the deck.
Here goes Tyler Bate.
Off the shoulders of Butch.
Look at this tag team action we're seeing.
Elton Prince trying to fight his way out.
You know what an unorthodox competitor Butch can be.
[Graves] Great athleticism on display.
Oh!
[Patrick] Wiping Elton off his feet.
[Graves] Oh, no, no, no, no, no, no.
Not the fingers, Butch. Not the fingers.
Oh, don't look at this. Oh!
Might have broken Elton Kit's arm.
[Patrick] Maybe he's gonna need a wheelchair.
[Graves] I hope not.
[Patrick] Here's Tyler Bate now gathering momentum.
Both Superstars!
Wiping out Pretty Deadly.
What a showing so far from Tyler Bate and Butch.
[Patrick] We are sold out tonight.
What an atmosphere for New Year's Revolution.
Butch and Tyler Bate is making his SmackDown debut against Pretty Deadly.
[Graves] Pretty Deadly have done a great job
of weathering the early storm provided by Tyler Bate.
This is expert level teamwork.
While trapped in the submission of Butch, the tag was made.
And the tides have turned.
[Patrick] As they have many times throughout this match.
-Butch now with a kick that connects. -Oh!
[Patrick] Taken off his feet by Elton Prince.
A duo that have absolutely impressed since arriving on SmackDown in 2023.
Oh!
[Graves] Very unique suplex by Butch,
who desperately needs to make a tag to the fresher Tyler Bate.
[Patrick] Raring to get in is Tyler Bate.
Who can get to the tag first? Butch now.
Makes the tag for Bate. Here comes Wilson as well.
Taken off his feet.
[Graves] Tyler Bate swinging at everything that moves right now.
[Patrick] This energizer Tyler Bate.
Effortless.
Not fazed by this debut on SmackDown at all.
[Graves] Sneak escape, into the knee lift now from the second turnbuckle.
-Oh! -[Graves] Flying uppercut.
[Patrick] European style for Tyler Bate.
And there's that strength we talked about.
[Graves] Standing Shooting Star Press.
[Patrick] Bate could have gone for the cover, Corey.
He wants this to continue.
[Graves] Bate showing the entire WWE Universe just what he is capable of.
Around and around we go.
Someone get Kit an airsick bag.
[Patrick] The Airplane Spin from Tyler Bate.
And the crowd here in Vancouver are loving it.
[crowd cheering]
Bate somehow quickly back on his feet.
There he is. Tags in Butch.
[Graves] In the corner. Oh!
Top bin.
[Patrick] Top bins indeed, Corey.
[Graves] Look at that, man. I know all about soccer.
-Oh! -Off the ropes! Look at this!
Immense tag team work as Butch now.
The break up… from Elton Prince.
[Graves] Things are breaking down in this tag team matchup.
Nasty backhand from Tyler Bate.
[Patrick] Working in sync now.
Bate and Butch… and the kick connects.
[Graves] Elton Prince just kicked Tyler Bate right on the jaw.
And now Butch from the top.
Hung across the top rope.
[Patrick] Hang on a second. Quickly in now.
For the cover and the victory for Pretty Deadly.
Did Butch get free?
-I think he did just in time. -Just in time.
[screams]
[Patrick] Butch now turned around.
[Graves] Got Kit's fingers again.
-[Patrick] Tag was made. -Oh no!
[Patrick] Tyler Bate, the legal man.
Oh, there it is!
The Bop And Bang!
Is this? Yes, it is!
A Double Tyler Driver '97!
And Tyler Bate on his SmackDown debut gets the win!
[Rome] Here are your winners.
The team of Butch and Tyler Bate!
[Graves] This win has got to feel magnificent for Butch,
who has been having a bit of a rough patch in his career recently.
Something of an identity crisis.
Sometimes it just takes reconnecting with an old friend.
Tyler Bate making a massive impact here at New Year's Revolution.
A tag team Tyler Driver.
-[Patrick] There you go. -A lot of alliteration there.
But a big win either way.
It's very disappointing for Kit and Elton.
They wore their best Robin Hood get-ups tonight and got embarrassed.
[Patrick laughs]
[Patrick] Tyler Bate could very well be a star
on the rise right here on SmackDown.
And as we turn our attention, folks, to tonight's main event,
no doubt Bate and others will be trying to emulate
what a certain "Megastar" did last year.
♪ Dig up the soil ♪
♪ Place the seeds ♪
♪ Cover in water And then you wait to see ♪
♪ Gotta keep moving with no complacency ♪
♪ And pay attention to the fact That nothing came for free ♪
[LA Knight] All of a sudden, LA Knight's everywhere.
Let's call it what it is.
I'm the fastest rising star in SmackDown history.
♪ The only star in the movie I'm playing the role ♪
♪ I can never lose the focus I stay in control ♪
♪ To my opponent I can bet I'm making you fold ♪
[crowd cheers]
I'm the best decision this company ever made.
The one and the only Megastar.
Tell them whose game this is.
LA Knight!
♪ Yeah, put the pressure on 'em ♪
I took Roman Reigns within an inch of that WWE Championship.
[Cole] Blunt Force Trauma!
[crowd] One! Two!
Jimmy Uso saves the match.
I'm not done till I own the WWE Championship.
Yeah!
[Graves] Orton, Styles, Knight.
The winner goes to the Royal Rumble to challenge Roman Reigns.
The Bloodline took you out.
Does anybody remember them taking me out?
Nah-uh! Which means I'm bulletproof.
I've got Roman Reigns.
♪ Put the pressure on me ♪
I am taking the WWE Championship with everybody saying…
[crowd] LA Knight!
[Graves] Careers were nearly ended and opportunities stolen.
But tonight, one Superstar will earn the right
to make things right at the Royal Rumble and grab the gold.
But who will move forward tonight?
We will find out in our massive main event Triple Threat Match.
Next.
[Patrick] We are at the home of the Canucks, the Rogers Arena
in stunning Vancouver,
British Columbia, Canada here tonight.
A brilliant night for New Year's Revolution.
But back on Monday, all eyes around the world were on Monday Night Raw.
It was the most electrifying start to 2024 imaginable.
The moment the world's biggest star, The Rock, arrived home to WWE at Day 1.
The sold-out crowd in San Diego couldn't believe it and neither could the millions
watching around the world.
Now look, we know The Rock, he's all about breaking records and that's exactly
what he did here as well.
The numbers astonishing.
Over 171 million views on social media over a five-day period.
[Graves] We don't call The Most Electrifying Man in All of Entertainment
for no good reason.
The Rock changing the game yet again this week on Monday Night Raw.
I'm gonna have to call you back.
Ashante, have a seat.
Thank you for having me.
What's on your mind?
Man, I'm gonna keep it a buck with you.
I've been struggling lately
and I don't know what my place is here and I feel lost.
But I don't want you to feel sorry for me.
I'm hungry. A starving dog. My ribs are showing.
And I've been ready.
Honestly, I just need an opportunity.
I don't feel sorry for you.
Because I've believed in you from the beginning.
Opportunity?
Okay.
I've got some ideas for you that I think you're gonna be very interested to hear.
[Patrick] Let's see what the future holds for Ashante.
How about next week on Friday Night SmackDown, folks?
It is now official.
And what a match this promises to be.
Bianca Belair and Bayley,
two women that have set their sights on winning the Royal Rumble Match
will go at it next week live on SmackDown.
[Graves] After a backstage skirmish earlier tonight,
it has been made official.
The Aussie icon, Grayson Waller, looks to wipe the smile off the face
of the carefree Cameron Grimes, next week.
[Patrick] We saw them scrap down the aisle earlier on here tonight.
And now they're gonna go at it next week in a tag team match.
It's Joaquin Wilde and Cruz Del Toro of the LWO against Angel and Humberto.
[Graves] Forecast calls for fireworks in that one.
[Patrick] And how about tonight in the main event of New Year's Revolution?
["Phenomenal" by CFO$ playing]
[explosion pops]
AJ Styles is ready for a battle.
And it is personal for the multi-time WWE Champion.
AJ Styles put on the shelf for months by The Bloodline.
He said his four kids, Corey, were at home watching as he was taken away
in an ambulance after a vicious assault by The Bloodline.
[Graves] It's very obvious to anybody with eyes
that AJ Styles is not the same man that he was
prior to the attack at the hands of The Bloodline.
This is a very different, very serious, very motivated Phenomenal One.
[Patrick] Friday Night SmackDown is sponsored by Progressive Insurance.
Save when you bundle auto, home, or motorcycle insurance.
[Graves] All three men in this matchup competing for that illustrious trip
to the Island of Relevancy
to challenge Roman Reigns in St. Petersburg, Florida.
[crowd cheering]
[Patrick] Did you hear that roar?
[Graves] What?
The sold-out crowd showing their appreciation for LA Knight.
Well folks, WWE Backlash France and Friday Night SmackDown
coming to Lyon-des-Sines, France on May 3rd and 4th of this year.
And combo tickets to go on sale next Friday.
That's next Friday, January 12th via Live Nation France.
[Graves] I can't wait to get to France.
It'll be like LA Knight. Oui!
[Patrick laughs]
-That was a good one, bud. -[Graves] I know.
With the Defiant One ready and motivated as always.
Talking trash as only he can do.
-Walking right past AJ Styles. -[crowd] LA Knight! Yeah!
[Patrick] Screwed by The Bloodline at Crown Jewel.
Milliseconds away from being the Undisputed Champion.
You can see it on his entrance jacket.
The word "Defiant" described LA Knight to a T.
["Voices" playing]
[Patrick] Look of motivation and determination in Randy Orton.
This Vengeful Viper
is here to book a date with Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble.
[Graves] A 14-time World Champion.
The Viper looks to make the long climb to the top of the mountain once again.
And it will be no easy feat tonight.
[Patrick] Eighteen months removed from his beloved WWE.
Spinal fusion surgery.
Forcing Orton out after a vicious attack, yes, by The Bloodline.
[Graves] It may be hard to do,
but all three of these men tonight need to compartmentalize
their issues with The Bloodline.
Don't worry about Roman Reigns.
Don't think about Jimmy Uso.
To hell with Paul Heyman until this closing bell rings.
Once you've earned the opportunity,
then you shift your sights back to Roman Reigns.
But until then, you cannot afford to take your eyes off of either opponent.
[Patrick] This truly is…
WrestleMania-caliber here on SmackDown New Year's Revolution.
The Royal Rumble three weeks from tomorrow.
What an opportunity for these three Superstars.
[Graves] Think about it.
It's very, very likely that one of these three men,
should they get through Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble,
can punch their ticket to WrestleMania.
And it all begins tonight at New Year's Revolution.
♪ I hear voices in my head ♪
♪ They counsel me, they understand ♪
♪ They talk to me ♪
[Patrick] Roman Reigns will be laser-focused on this match.
It's a match you simply cannot miss.
Who's gonna book their place for a meeting with Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble?
We're gonna find out in our main event of Friday Night SmackDown.
And it's coming your way from Vancouver, live, next.
[wild cheering]
[Patrick] Welcome back, folks.
The sold-out crowd here witnessing the main event of massive consequence.
The winner faces Roman Reigns for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship
three weeks from tomorrow at the Royal Rumble.
[Graves] The matchup that was sanctioned by SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis.
All three men have had issues with The Bloodline
in their own separate ways.
Both Orton and Styles forced to miss significant periods of time.
LA Knight feels as though he should be the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion.
So Nick came up with a brilliant idea.
Let's let these three men fight.
Who will earn the right to be the first to challenge The Tribal Chief?
[Patrick] That was Aldis watching from ringside.
Triple threat rules apply here.
First Superstar to get a pinfall or submission wins.
-Yeah! -No count outs. No disqualifications.
What's the strategy then?
[Graves] If you're LA Knight, you are looking for the BFT.
You are looking to strike quickly and take somebody down in the blink of an eye.
But you've also got to be extremely cautious and wary of the RKO.
A move that has put everybody down and takes a fraction of a second.
You're AJ Styles.
You need to avoid both of those maneuvers and stick to your veteran instincts.
Styles has the best aerial game of these three athletes.
Orton's got a lot of experience, but AJ Styles is right up there with him.
[Patrick] Speaking of experience, Randy Orton now to the outside.
[crowd chanting] Randy!
[Patrick] That was the muscle from LA Knight.
[Graves] LA Knight putting on the brakes.
[crowd gasps]
Knight now just battering Randy Orton's head off the announce desk.
[crowd chanting] Yeah!
[Graves] All right, Knight a step ahead now.
AJ Styles joining the party.
[crowd chanting] Yeah!
There's the motivated LA Knight. But you gotta watch him!
Oh!
[Graves] You never take your eyes off The Viper.
[Patrick] Calculated and waiting to pounce.
[Graves] Look at Randy Orton, just surveying the situation
and AJ suffers the same fate as Knight.
I don't think Randy's done yet, KP.
The Viper…
hoisting up Knight yet again!
And LA Knight's chances of heading to the Royal Rumble are not looking good.
[Patrick] Orton stalking his prey.
Taking his time with both Styles and Knight.
Inflicting more damage for AJ Styles.
-Counter. -Quick and nimble.
Randy Orton over announce desk!
[Graves] Orton with a taste of his own medicine
being driven spine first into our commentary table.
We knew there would be carnage.
Perhaps not this early in the matchup,
but all three men… realize what is at stake.
The opportunity at hand.
[Patrick] The opportunity of a lifetime.
To be the one to end Roman's historic reign.
[crowd chanting indistinctly]
Styles chucking Orton back inside the ring.
[Graves] It's a smart strategy by AJ Styles.
LA Knight has been neutralized for the moment.
AJ now turns this into a one-on-one scenario.
Could be looking for the Phenomenal Forearm.
Styles lining it up.
[Patrick] Oh! Caught by Orton! Caught by Orton!
[Graves] A veteran move by Randy Orton.
Recognizing what was needed in this situation.
It wasn't fancy,
but it stopped AJ's forward progress.
[Patrick] AJ's neck was up on the top rope as Orton goes back for more now.
Will he go there?
Yeah?
Come on!
[Patrick] Randy Orton! The heightened DDT!
[Graves] Styles was spiked.
And The Viper can taste victory,
inching ever closer.
[crowd cheers]
[Patrick] LA Knight is nowhere to be seen.
[crowd chanting] Randy!
[Patrick] Randy Orton just has to pin AJ Styles.
[Graves] There is no just about that, KP.
That is no easy feat.
AJ may be down, but he's not out yet.
Randy wants to make absolutely sure
The Phenomenal One does not earn the title opportunity.
[Patrick] LA Knight from behind dragging Orton outside the ring,
into the steel steps he goes.
[Graves] Those are the breaks, unfortunately, in a Triple Threat Match.
All perfectly legal.
[Patrick] The stakes absolutely enormous as AJ flies to the outside.
[Graves] Styles, Knight and Orton.
Who is gonna head to the Royal Rumble to challenge Roman?
[Patrick] Everyone on the edge of their seat here.
The winner of this Triple Threat Match
will face Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble.
It's Styles, Orton and LA Knight.
What a match so far, Corey Graves. This could go any way.
[Graves] During the break, it was AJ Styles who gained the upper hand,
and a sliding forearm rocks LA Knight.
There's still many questions swirling about
what's going on in the mind of AJ Styles.
What's unleashed this darkness that we've seen recently?
There's no question about that.
A flying forearm right in the grill.
Orton's been neutralized on the outside.
We saw AJ attacking Randy's knee throughout the commercial break.
[Patrick] Orton still fighting.
The knee attack, the back as well, put across the announce desk.
[Graves] Thus far, none of these three men
have been able to sustain much of an advantage.
We've seen momentary advantage.
You get the upper hand, but someone steals it away just as quick.
[Patrick] Talking about three and--
Three of the very best in WWE.
[Graves] A knee buried to the breadbasket of LA Knight.
That's gonna drive all the wind out of your body.
It's extremely painful
as evidenced by the grimace on the face of The Defiant One.
And now AJ Styles brimming with confidence.
[Patrick] You can understand how Styles is spitting fire.
Put in an ambulance by The Bloodline.
Now looking to earn a date with Reigns.
Quickly across now for the cover. Can he get the win?
Kicking out is LA Knight.
[Graves] This is as much about vengeance
as it is the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.
These three men are all driven by vengeance.
But the goal remains the same.
Dethrone Roman Reigns,
which no one has been able to do to this point.
[Patrick] It's a reign that stands at 1,223 days.
[indistinct chatter]
Chops to Randy Orton.
Two of the best over the last 20 years now doing battle here.
[Graves] We heard from both Roman and "The Wiseman" Paul Heyman
earlier in the night.
We know for a fact that Roman Reigns is watching every moment of this matchup.
Studying his potential opponents.
[Patrick] Face-first off the steps.
There's an aggression.
An unforgiving nature about AJ Styles now.
[Graves] And again, no count out, No disqualification
under Triple Threat Rules. All of this perfectly legal.
But you do tend to want your opponent, at least one of them, inside the ring
to earn the victory. And that's what AJ Styles is realizing.
-Great counter by Knight. Shoulders down. -Can LA Knight qualify?
Out at two.
-AJ Styles, no wasted time. -Big Jawbreaker by LA Knight.
And Orton joins in on the fun from the outside.
Sharp jabs now from LA Knight.
[crowd chanting] Yeah!
[Patrick] Listen to the sold-out crowd here in Vancouver.
But watch out.
It's "The Viper" Randy Orton, stopped by LA Knight.
[Graves] Now it's Orton's turn to eat a few knuckle sandwiches.
LA Knight wants that rematch,
wants that date with Reigns.
[Graves] Side Russian leg sweep takes down Orton.
[crowd] LA Knight!
Yeah!
[Patrick] Quickly across now to Styles.
[Graves] Look at LA Knight in complete control at the moment.
Remember, Knight believes in his heart
that he should be the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion…
-Oh! -…right now.
After his encounter with Reigns at Crown Jewel.
-[Patrick] He would have been. -Oh!
The interference of The Bloodline. Knight back at his feet.
Taken down again by Orton.
Look at the physique of Randy Orton.
[Graves] Snap Power Slam takes down Knight.
[Patrick] Looking better than ever.
-Orton does the same to Styles. -Lightning quickness.
[Patrick] Eighteen months of plotting.
The calculated Randy Orton eyeing LA Knight.
[crowd chanting] Randy!
[Graves] Here we go.
[Patrick] Oh no! BFT!
Knight in for the cover. Can he get it?
Can he get AJ Styles? What?
[Graves] Brilliant.
Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant move by Styles.
AJ knowing there is no disqualification.
He didn't maliciously put his hands on the official.
Just wanted the official to stop the count.
Charles Robinson did just that.
But LA Knight delivered a BFT to The Viper.
And it looked as though Knight was heading to the Rumble.
[Patrick] Felt like déjà vu, I'm sure, for LA Knight, milliseconds away.
AJ Styles,
-somehow, keeping this match alive. -That's the thing about AJ Styles,
as much as you can dish out to the Phenomenal One,
he will happily take it and give you just as much back.
-[Patrick] Styles! -Pelé Kick!
[Patrick] And connects with LA Knight!
[Graves] A little thing you should pay attention to,
notice how AJ Styles grabbed the foot of LA Knight immediately,
keeping Knight in close quarters,
not allowing LA to roll out of the ring,
or find himself in a more favorable position.
That is veteran instinct that you just don't learn overnight from AJ Styles.
[Patrick] Such a massive night here tonight for New Year's Revolution.
Following up an epic Monday Night Raw to kick off 2024.
[Graves] Looked to me as though Styles pulled up a little lame,
seemed like he was limping a bit.
What is AJ looking for here?
AJ, Oh my God!
-[Graves] Springboard 450! Cover! -Cover!
To book the day with Reigns!
And Knight kicks out!
Oh my God!
[Graves] Right now, AJ's gotta be asking himself,
"What else could I possibly do?"
Fighting through the pain, the big time Springboard, tucked tightly, 450 Splash!
Right on the mark!
But LA Knight, refusing to be denied.
What a beautiful sight that was,
but it couldn't finish off LA Knight for AJ Styles.
[Graves] AJ with these sharp shots right to the forehead of LA Knight.
Knight battered and bruised.
[Patrick] The sadistic look on the face of AJ Styles.
[Graves] Here we go. Styles setting it up.
We could have a Styles Clash.
[Patrick] Looking to hoist up LA Knight.
[Graves] Great. AJ saw Randy coming.
[Patrick] Randy just driving AJ into the corner.
Orton back for more. Big kick.
Oh!
[Graves] Forearm…
as The Viper wobbled.
AJ lining it up.
[Patrick] AJ's-- Oh!
[Graves] RKO!
[Patrick] Are you kidding me?
Orton! Cover! To qualify--
Wait a second!
[Graves] Turnabout is fair play.
Again,
great awareness by LA Knight to keep his opportunity alive.
Nick Aldis is feet from us, and we just made eye contact,
and he basically shrugged his shoulders.
It's perfectly legal under Triple Threat Rules.
[Patrick] Who's gonna get the cover?
Who's gonna qualify? What did we just witness, Corey?
["Head of the Table" playing]
[wild cheering]
[Graves] The Bloodline is in the house.
Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, Jimmy Uso and The Wiseman
do what they want,
when they want, to who they want.
[Patrick] Solo Sikoa, instructed by Reigns,
heads inside the ring, as does Jimmy Uso.
[Graves] And this has got to be disappointing for the WWE Universe
just as much as Orton Styles or Knight.
We had a classic on our hands.
[Patrick] This is carnage now. Absolute mayhem.
[Graves] But Roman Reigns answers to no one.
This is Roman's show. That is Roman's ring.
It is Roman's WWE Universal Championship.
[Patrick] And this could be devastating.
Orton, face-first.
You wanna be a GM, bro, you wanna call the shot?
You dealing with the very best.
Who's next?
[Graves] Roman Reigns quarterbacking this onslaught from inside the ring.
Solo and Jimmy Uso doing his bidding.
[Patrick] The Bloodline picking on the carcasses left.
[crowd booing]
[Graves] Reigns!
Crushing Styles.
[Reigns] You ain't meant for me!
Who's next?
[Graves] Roman just asked Solo and Jimmy Uso who's next.
The Tribal Chief is making a statement.
This is a painful, agonizing reminder
that he runs everything on Friday Night SmackDown.
Locked.
Loaded.
[Patrick] Knight back on his feet. Superman Punch!
This is what happens. You should have stayed [indistinct].
[Patrick] Oh! Spear to LA Knight!
Now, the turn of Randy Orton.
[Graves] This is absolute dominance from The Bloodline.
And we're just feet away from Nick Aldis.
Roman lining it up again.
Orton trapped in the clutches of Solo.
[crowd yells]
Oh! A Samoan Spike Spear combination.
[crowd booing]
-One more thing. -Don't be touching me.
Hey, hey.
When he's done celebrating,
-tell him congratulations. -Why?
Because he's just earned himself a Fatal Four-Way Match
with all three of these guys at the Royal Rumble.
[crowd clamoring] these guys at the Royal Rumble.