[intro music playing]
[John Cena] Then.
[Ric Flair] Woooo!
-[glass shattering] -[The Rock] If you smell…
-[bell tolling] -[Cena] Now.
-[Triple H] The king of kings… -[Cena] You can't see me…
[Cena] Forever.
Together.
[Corey] It has been over a year.
Bayley is back.
I know. Everybody's talking about SummerSlam.
[Corey] Bayley, Iyo Sky, and Dakota Kai.
This is truly surreal.
But they're not talking about Bianca
and they're not talking about Becky Lynch, are they?
[Corey] Oh, my God.
Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky, and Bayley attacking Becky Lynch.
[Jimmy] An already injured Becky Lynch.
[Bianca] Where they go?
-It's okay, Becky. -It's okay, Becky.
Are you okay?
They're talking about Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky, and me.
And we know what we want.
[Corey] Oh, wait a second. Dakota Kai, Bayley, and Iyo Sky have hit the ring.
[Bayley] And we know how to get there.
[Corey] This is all about dominance in the Women's Division.
You take it by force.
And pretty soon, we will be in full control.
[Corey] Iyo making the climb to the top rope.
[Saxton] With a steel chair.
Here comes The EST, Raw Women's Champion.
I don't care which one of you it is. I want a match tonight.
-[intense music playing] -[Jimmy] Iyo Sky versus Bianca Belair.
[Corey] This is what Bianca is going to have to do,
bring the fight Iyo and keep Iyo grounded,
because the minute Iyo takes flight, it's game over.
-Oh, my God. -[Jimmy] Moonsault.
[Corey] Once upon a time, she was referred to as the genius of the sky.
Her arsenal is second to none.
[Jimmy] Iyo Sky into the arms of Bianca Belair.
[Corey] The EST starting to roll.
We've got company.
Bayley and Dakota Kai out here.
-[crowd boos] -[Saxton] What is going on here?
-[crowd cheers] -Oh, look who's back.
Asuka and Alexa Bliss.
[Corey] It seems to me that Iyo is beginning to realize
she's outgunned tonight.
[Jimmy] A little bit of trickery there.
-[Saxton] Feet on the ropes. -[Corey] Feet of the ropes.
-[Saxton] Now Alexa Bliss. -[Corey] Turnabout's fair play.
-[Jimmy] Now the ring is full. -[bell rings]
This match is over, but no one's acting like it.
Officials now trying to break this up
to get some semblance of order in the ring.
[Saxton] Good luck with that.
All six of these women trying to tear each other apart.
[Corey] There's a lot of bad blood between these six women.
[Jimmy] This far, far from over.
[Raw's music plays]
[Corey] The triumvirate of Bayley, Dakota Kai, and Iyo Sky
has the entire women's locker room on edge.
Tonight, questions will be answered about their future.
Also, the future of the United States Championship
as we come to you live on Monday Night Raw
from Cleveland, Ohio's Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
[Jimmy] That's right. Bobby Lashley, the United States Champion,
will defend his title against Ciampa, who survived a Triple Threat last week,
and AJ Styles to get his opportunity.
Well, be careful what you wish for because his opportunity is tonight on Raw.
[Corey] Also tonight, the wait is finally over.
We will take the first step towards crowning
brand new WWE Women's Tag Team Champions
with a first-round matchup going down here in the land.
[Saxton] And speaking of which, it will be Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky
who will take said first step towards control of the Women's Division
when they face Tamina and Dana Brooke in the first round
of the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship tournament.
Who will walk away the new Champions?
It all starts tonight.
Tonight is all about making your own opportunities.
That is what Ciampa did last week.
Not just surviving a Triple Threat
but also defeating AJ Styles "The Phenomenal One,"
but be careful what you wish for because you just might get it, Corey.
-[Bayley's music plays] -Ciampa will encounter a very game,
very ready "All Mighty" United States Champion,
but we are kicking things off with the red hot Women's Division.
[announcer] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky, and Bayley.
[Jimmy] Surprises at SummerSlam.
This was the biggest one of them all.
As I said, the Women's locker room completely on edge about this new group
that Bayley is bringing from NXT.
[Saxton] That's exactly what these three wanted.
Bayley, Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky have gotten the attention
of the entire Women's division here on Raw.
[Corey] All three of these women have been very open in the past several weeks.
This is all about control.
Control of the Raw Women's Division,
potentially control of the Raw Women's Championship,
and perhaps even the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.
[Jimmy] We saw the willingness of Iyo Sky last week.
She took on Bianca Belair, Raw Women's Champion.
Late notice, took the challenge of the Bianca Belair. That took guts.
[Saxton] Just imagine what kind of control will come
if Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky become the new Women's Tag Team Champions.
[crowd boos]
Ding dong!
Oh, come on.
I haven't seen you guys in forever. That's what I get?
You guys are booing me, but Dakota Kai, and Iyo Sky, and myself
are so excited to see your dumb, smiley, little faces.
[crowd boos]
Trust me, trust me. We don't want to be here, either,
but we know that you guys need us.
We know that you guys came to see
what we do next to try and salvage this uninspired division.
Your role model had to do something.
Like crash SummerSlam and shake everyone up?
Exactly.
You guys can't honestly sit there and tell me
that you enjoy watching Becky Lynch play dress-up every week.
[crowd cheers]
Oh, and you guys want to tell me
that you actually enjoy cheering for that Champion, Bianca Belair?
[crowd cheers]
Bianca would be nothing without me.
[crowd boos]
And that's why last week, we had to make a statement for all of you.
First of all, we had to make sure
that we took care of Becky Lynch's dumb little shoulder,
and then we had to light a fire under every single woman in that locker room.
We had to bring that fighting spirit out of Bianca Belair for you
because we're bringing back what's been missing.
The hunger.
Yeah, you guys deserve a Women's Division that's hungry, that's starving for more.
But I don't blame them.
They're just like all you sheep where you guys are a little lost
without me, and you don't really know what to do.
You don't know how to ask for more.
[crowd boos]
But I've learned if you can't find the answers you're looking for,
then ask better questions.
So, I have a question for all of you idiots.
[crowd boos]
How am I the only one to realize
what a lethal weapon Iyo Sky is?
How am I the only person in this whole damn building
that realized the benefits of bringing someone in like Dakota Sky?
Dakota Kai. I know I said it wrong, you dummies.
You guys better shut up so I can think.
[crowd jeering]
You guys are really making me mad, but can you imagine how mad they are?
Can you imagine how much they've been boiling inside the hungry--
-Shut the hell up. I'm talking! -Hey, hey, hey!
[crowd boos]
Hey, calm down. You don't have to tell them anymore, okay?
Just breathe.
Iyo and I will show them
when we enter the Women's Tag Team title tournament tonight and win.
-[Alexa Bliss' music plays] -[crowd cheers]
[Corey] Uh-oh.
It sounds like we have an objection.
[Jimmy] We talked about the women's locker room being on edge.
Bayley got them ready to fight.
[Saxton] Here's someone in Alexa Bliss
who felt the wrath of the mission statement
established by Bayley and company.
-[Asuka's music plays] -[crowd cheers]
[Saxton] And Alexa Bliss is not alone.
[Jimmy] The empress of tomorrow making her way to the ring.
[Corey] You heard Bayley mention she was here to reignite the Women's Division.
Well, Bayley, Iyo and Dakota had better be very careful.
They might have gotten exactly what they wished for.
[Saxton] And some.
[Jimmy] These are the established powers in the locker room
along with, you bet, the EST.
I'll do you one better, Jimmy.
This is the established power of the division, the Raw Women's Champion,
"The EST" Bianca Belair.
[Bianca Belair's music plays]
[Jimmy] It's all about a fight,
you know these are the ladies who are going to answer.
[Saxton] Marching down to the ring.
Eyes locked on Bayley, Iyo Sky, and Dakota Kai.
[Corey] Six very combustible elements about to be in the same ring.
I hope security's on standby.
[Jimmy] We saw the combustion last week.
We ran out of referees separating these ladies.
Let's not get too ahead of ourselves here.
-Dakota, Iyo-- -[crowd chanting] EST!
Just wanted to give you guys a little ding dong heads up.
You're not winning the tournament,
because if you win your match tonight, guess who you'll have to face soon?
Alexa Bliss and Asuka.
Whoo!
Exactly.
And after what you guys pulled last week,
it just gives us even more incentive to just beat the hell out of you
and win the Women's Tag Team Championships.
And, no, uh… Don't even think I'm finished with you yet.
You know what, Iyo, you're right. I am hungry.
Hungry to get right back in this ring and finish what I started with you,
but you know what? If we're playing the numbers game here,
the three of us have absolutely no problem
with dealing with the three of y'all right here, right now.
[Saxton] I want to see that.
Pipe down, pipe down. Relax, relax.
I knew you were going to get all worked up off of what we did last week,
but we're calling the shots here, okay?
Let's do a little three-on-three where it counts,
and it's definitely not here in Cleveland. [laughs]
[crowd boos]
What do you say the three of you versus the three of us
at Clash at the Castle?
[Jimmy] Wow.
Challenge accepted.
But while you trying to keep control,
tonight, I feel like losing it.
[Corey] Oh, here we go!
[Saxton] I had a feeling this was going to happen, again.
[Jimmy] Forget about next month, forget about next week,
they're going at it right now.
[Corey] Challenge issued, challenge accepted.
This is a hell of a preview for Clash at the Castle.
[Saxton] They're fighting all over the place.
[Corey] It's a melee at ringside to kick off Monday Night Raw.
[Jimmy] We don't have a match, we have a brawl, gentlemen.
[Saxton] Can we get some help out here, like now?
[Corey] Bayley and The EST battling out into the crowd.
Asuka and Dakota throwing down.
Bliss and Iyo trying to destroy each other.
[Jimmy] Finally some officials out trying to restore order.
[Corey] Bring in the cavalry.
[Saxton] Should have been on standby in the first place.
[commentators exclaim]
[Saxton] Alexa Bliss just sent into our announce desk.
[Corey] Two on one on the outside.
Fortunately, referees are there.
[Saxton] We're going to need a lot more of them.
[Jimmy] They're splitting out into the WWE universe.
[Saxton] Clearly we need some backup
because we don't have enough officials out here.
Now Bliss is on the barricade…
[Corey exclaims]
…wiping out the whole fray.
[Jimmy] Bayley has brought something out of this group of superstars.
[Corey] Bayley may regret doing that.
Somebody get some control out here.
[upbeat music playing]
[announcer] The two-night blockbuster event is coming.
WrestleMania goes Hollywood.
Live at SoFi Stadium, Saturday, April 1st, and Sunday, April 2nd.
Tickets available this Friday.
[Seth Rollins' music plays]
[Jimmy] You hear the crowd here in Cleveland,
they know what's coming.
-The unpredictability. -[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from Davenport, Iowa,
weighing in at 217 pounds,
Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Corey] He is a visionary, he is a revolutionary,
and tonight, Seth "Freakin" Rollins is feeling absolutely intense.
[Jimmy] Well, the thing, when he comes to the ring,
you know there's going to be injuries
like he tried to do to Montez Ford last week.
[Corey] After an absolutely incredible performance by both athletes,
Montez Ford could taste victory,
but Rollins is perpetually one stomp ahead of the competition.
It was a great effort by Montez,
but the night belonged to Rollins.
[Saxton] Much like you had pointed out, Jimmy, Rollins wasn't done.
The match was over, but thinking about what he had already done to Riddle,
Rollins wanting to sideline Montez Ford,
and had it not been for Angelo Dawkins, right there,
who knows what kind of condition Montez Ford would be in here this week?
[Jimmy] We're starting to expect that from Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
Ready to attack and incapacitate, injure anyone at any time
just like he did Riddle, postponing their match at SummerSlam.
[Saxton] He loves it, he thinks it's funny.
What he's done to Riddle, what happened to Cody Rhodes.
It's a miracle anyone wants to take him on.
[Street Profits' music plays]
[Jimmy] But you know who always wants the smoke?
[Saxton] These two men right here.
[announcer] And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by Montez Ford,
representing the Street Profits,
Angelo Dawkins.
[Saxton] In particular Angelo Dawkins, who was flat out ticked off
over the fact that Seth Rollins tried to injure his best friend
and tag team partner, Montez Ford.
Well, Monday Night Raw is brought to you by Sonic.
This is how we Sonic.
[Corey] Much like Montez Ford experienced last week, tonight,
Angelo Dawkins has a chance to really break out on his own
going toe-to-toe with one of the best in the game
in Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
I spoke to Dawkins earlier today.
He said he spent all week at the Performance Center in Orlando
studying film of Seth Rollins
and even picking the brains of some of Seth's former coaches
at the Performance Center to be fully prepared for tonight.
I'm curious to see if Dawkins fares any better than Montez did last week.
[Jimmy] It says a lot about who these men are
and how competitive they are
when you really consider what they've gone through over the last two weeks.
So much so close to capturing the undisputed WWE Tag Team titles.
Fallen short there.
Montez ford coming up short against Seth Rollins,
so it's major rebound time tonight here for Dawkins.
[Corey] Angelo Dawkins clearly has been working on his physique,
-adding a little bit of lean muscle. -[bell rings]
[Jimmy] We're underway. You've talked for weeks, Corey,
about the physical ability of Angelo Dawkins.
His speed, his size, his strength
is underrated next to Montez Ford all the time.
[Corey] I've known Angelo Dawkins
since he was first signed to a WWE developmental contract.
This is a guy who has always possessed the ability but never the mentality.
Look out.
Lately, Dawkins seems to have figured it out.
Dawkins is finally firing on all cylinders,
which makes him a completely different competitor
than even we've seen in the past several months.
[Saxton] To that point, Dawkins had a heart-to-heart with himself.
He told himself, "I need to be more intense.
I need to be more locked in at all times.
[Jimmy] And Seth Rollins always bringing that intensity, the energy.
You talked, Byron,
-about the failures recently… -[Corey] Wow.
-…of the Street Profits, and-- -[Corey] Boom.
[Jimmy] Beautiful dropkick, and Seth Rollins trying to use that--
Shoulders down for just a millisecond.
But Seth Rollins always trying to poke that bear.
Always trying to remind them of their failures.
[Corey] Let's take another look at the athleticism of Angelo Dawkins
who seems to improve week after week.
[Corey] Boom. Right on the jaw.
Rollins is down, very wisely rolling to the outside to compose himself.
[Jimmy] Oh, talk about the mind games.
[Saxton] Montez, are you okay?
Seth Rollins, my face! My face!
[vocalizing]
What you mad for? You gonna hit me?
-[Jimmy] Oh, my gosh. -[Saxton] My God.
[Jimmy] Seth Rollins wiped out by Angelo Dawkins.
[Saxton] That was incredible.
[Jimmy] Welcome back to Monday Night Raw, where…
Corey Graves trying to re-compose himself.
Almost got hit with a flying body of Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Corey] A recurring theme here on Monday nights.
Right now, Dawkins trying to fight his way back into this matchup
after Rollins took control during the commercial break.
[Jimmy] Trying to slow down the offense, oh, my God, of Angelo Dawkins,
and that's a great way to do it.
[Corey] Rollins always so dangerous.
Almost lulling Dawkins into a false sense of security
before driving him face-first.
A little extracurricular from Montez Ford.
-Tez has had enough. -[Saxton] Watch out, watch out!
Montez got to be careful not to get Dawkins disqualified.
[Jimmy] Just blew his fuse.
He's in the ring with a chair.
[Corey] Rollins so calculated with every movement.
[Jimmy] He may have gotten exactly what he wanted.
[Saxton] I think this speaks to how emotionally strength--
You can't blame the official's decision in this case.
[Jimmy] It was the right move,
but once again, exactly what Seth "Freakin" Rollins wanted.
[Corey] Rollins realizes that Montez can be a hothead and used it against him.
[Jimmy] You said it, Corey, the mental edge, the gamesmanship,
thinking one move ahead.
[Saxton] Look, this is not going to be a walk in the park.
Big smile on Seth Rollins' face.
[Jimmy] Here comes Angelo Dawkins. Over the top goes Seth Rollins.
[Saxton] He's still got to find a way to overcome Angelo Dawkins
who's about to fly.
[Jimmy] He's got speed like no other.
[Corey] Cleveland ain't seen hawks like that since LeBron ran away.
[Saxton laughs] Intensity overload right now, but Dawkins.
[Corey] Perhaps motivated by the ejection of Montez Ford.
[Saxton] Best believe he is.
[commentators exclaim]
-[Corey] Silencer from Dawkins. -[Jimmy] That's got to be it.
-Shoulders down. -One, two…
[Jimmy] A kick out just in time from Seth Rollins.
Angelo Dawkins can't believe it.
[Corey] What a tremendous flurry of offense.
The ability of Dawkins to chain one maneuver into the next
very nearly knocked off Rollins, but it's a testament to the guts
and iron will of Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Jimmy] But how much energy did Angelo Dawkins expend
on that offense, Byron?
[Saxton] One of the things we don't talk about enough
is the gas tank of Angelo Dawkins, how durable he is, how long he can go.
[Corey] Rollins looking for the O'Connor roll.
-Oh, roll up. -One, two…
[Jimmy] Kick out from Angelo Dawkins.
Oh, no. Good night, AD.
[Bryon] It could end right here.
[Jimmy] Oh! Talk about scouting, saw the stomp coming.
-Sees it again. Whoa! -[Saxton] Two attempts squandered.
-[Jimmy] Dawkins is going to do it. -One, two…
Oh! Just before three, out kicks Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Corey] In that moment, the whole city of Cleveland
had no choice but to just believe.
Dawkins with a sky-high powerbomb.
Rollins was stacked up on top of his shoulders,
and that was a golden opportunity for Angelo Dawkins.
[Saxton] It is imperative right now for Dawkins to continue to believe
that he can defeat Seth Rollins
in what would unquestionably be the biggest singles victory of his career.
[Jimmy] Seth Rollins right now looking for a break,
but I don't know if he's going to find one.
Oh! Brilliant move out of the way.
[Corey] Dawkins got a little overzealous.
[Saxton] Left shoulder colliding with the steel steps.
Dawkins back in.
Again, for a third time, avoided the stomp.
[Jimmy] This time a counter to the sky high.
[Corey] Shoulder first into the canvas.
This will do it.
[Jimmy] Pedigree face down.
[crowd chanting] One, two, three!
-[bell rings] -[Corey] Huge victory for Seth Rollins.
-[Seth Rollins' music plays] -[announcer] Here is your winner,
Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Corey] Once again, Rollins proves his in-ring--
Wait a second. Enough is enough, Seth.
-[Saxton] Oh, no, no. -[Jimmy] Proving his cruelty yet again.
[Saxton] This time there was no Montez Ford to protect--
[Jimmy] Spoke too soon.
[Saxton] Ford, of course, was ejected from the ringside area during the match.
[Seth Rollins' music plays]
Rollins a step ahead in the competition,
but what a hell of an effort tonight for Angelo Dawkins.
[Jimmy] Always a step too far.
Speaking of a superstar that's always taking it a step too far
is The Judgment Day.
They have to deal with a returning Edge.
I'll keep this real simple.
I created Judgment Day with a thought
that I was going to help underutilized talent
realize their full potential.
Damian Priest, Finn Bálor and Rhea Ripley.
And, man, I got to be honest with you, it felt like we were just getting started.
We were going somewhere, but apparently that first taste of power,
well, it clouded their judgment.
They thought they learned all there was to learn from me,
but they were damn wrong.
If you witnessed SummerSlam, you saw me pull myself out of the hell
that you put me in.
And now it's time to kill what I created.
Finn, Damian, Rhea,
I am going to end Judgment Day.
-[Jimmy] Wait… What the? -[Corey] It's the Judgment Day.
[Jimmy] Priest, Bálor and Ripley.
[Saxton] Ambushing the Mysterios.
Three on two as the Judgment Day
having their way with Rey and Dominik Mysterio.
[Jimmy] Oh! Once again.
[Saxton] Here comes the Rated-R Superstar.
[Jimmy] Going after his former disciples.
[Saxton] Edge vowed to kill what he created.
He vowed to kill the Judgment Day.
[Corey] You are looking at a man possessed.
[commentators exclaim]
[Saxton] Rhea shoved Dominik Mysterio in the way of Edge.
There was no way Edge could stop himself.
[Corey] Ripley brilliantly flipping the script.
[speaking Spanish]
-Hey. -Hey.
[in English] Listen, I know things went sideways last week,
but if anything happens with Judgment Day tonight,
you know I got your backs.
Oh, I know you do. Yeah.
Listen, Dom, I see that look in your eye.
Last week was an accident.
I didn't mean to spear you.
Dom, we cool?
I'm cool.
Hey, mijo, it was an accident.
[speaking Spanish]
[in English] Dom, I've known this man for 20 years. He's familia.
You've known me for 25.
I can't believe you're taking his side over mine.
Hey, don't go there. Dom.
I know my son. Let me talk to him.
Thank you.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
the most must-see WWE superstar in history,
The Miz.
And alongside him the man that will challenge the "All Mighty" Bobby Lashley
for the United States Championship tonight, Ciampa.
Ciampa, after your phenomenal performance last week
to earn this United States Championship opportunity,
do you feel tonight's your night?
Phenomenal, huh?
Couldn't think of a better word to describe Ciampa's performance, Kev?
Let me explain something to you. There's nothing phenomenal about a guy
who sides with a celebrity hack like Logan Paul
and cost me my SummerSlam match,
but you know who had the last laugh?
This man right here.
Kevin, you said the word opportunity.
People talk about overcoming adversity.
They talk about the Almighty One.
When you want something to believe in, believe in Ciampa.
You know who believed in Ciampa?
The first-ever United States Champion, Harley Race.
A man who trained me, who turned me into the man I am today.
About three years ago from this date, Harley passed away,
and tonight, I am dedicating my win
to the king, Harley Race,
and with Harley looking down on me,
with The Miz right there by my side, with the United States title on the line,
this will truly be my moment.
Tonight, when I step foot in that ring, and Bobby Lashley looks into my eyes,
he will feel my sacrifice,
and he will realize that he's already lost.
[Ezekiel's music plays]
[Jimmy] Herley Race as a coach, that will give you a lot of confidence.
[Corey] No fear in the eyes of tonight's challenger.
-I cannot wait. -[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, Ezekiel.
[Saxton] Come on, Corey, be honest. You feel a bit Zeked up tonight?
-[Corey] I think you're a Zeke-off. -[Saxton] What?
-[Kevin Owens' music plays] -[crowd cheers]
[Corey] You talk about intensity.
[announcer] And his opponent, from Marieville, Quebec, Canada,
weighing in at 266 pounds,
Kevin Owens.
[Corey] That is a look of a fired-up Kevin Owens.
[Saxton] History has shown us what Ezekiel has done
to the emotional mindset of Kevin Owens in the past.
Got to wonder if Kevin Owens
is going to be able to tame those emotions here tonight.
-[bell rings] -[Corey] And then, to try and prove
that Ezekiel is Elias. I think you got your answer, Saxton.
Kevin Owens coming unglued.
[Jimmy] He's been frustrated at every turn by Ezekiel.
Looking to take out that frustration tonight.
[Corey] Owens-- that looks to me like Ezekiel unleashed something
inside Kevin Owens that maybe he didn't want to.
My god, this is next-level brutality from KO.
[Jimmy] Just shifted our commentary table five feet.
[Corey] Oh, no. No, no, no.
[crowd cheers]
-[Saxton] Owens hoisting up Ezekiel. -[Jimmy] Oh, God.
Powerbomb on the apron.
[Corey] Owens has taken out countless competitors
with that exact same powerbomb.
[Jimmy] We might have to add one more to that list.
Zeke's hurt.
[referee] Get me some help.
-[Corey] Ezekiel might have… -Call the EMTs.
-EMTs, let's go. -…fractured ribs or…
[Saxton] Something got into Kevin Owens tonight.
I don't know what it is but--
[Corey] I can tell you what it is, Saxton.
Ezekiel's been under the skin of Owens for weeks now and Kevin's finally snapped.
No regret on the face of Kevin Owens as Ezekiel laid out, getting medical help.
Let's go, guys. Come on.
Let's go.
[Saxton] Pearce is out here. Paramedics now.
[Corey] Guys, can we go to commercial?
Come on.
[crowd cheers]
[Jimmy] Now, laughing, smiling Kevin Owens.
[Corey] Obviously, nothing humorous about this situation.
This is the devil we know.
[Jimmy] This is what happened before the break, tragically,
-between Kevin Owens and Ezekiel. -[bell rings]
We knew Kevin Owens was fired up.
We knew Kevin Owens was looking forward to this opportunity
to beat Ezekiel down and KO did exactly what he set out to do.
Watch this brutality.
A trademark Kevin Owens powerbomb on the ring apron.
That is unforgiving steel.
Can you hear me? We got you, buddy.
We got you, buddy. You ready?
We haven't seen that apron powerbomb for quite some time,
and that's the reason why.
That's what that maneuver can do to your opponent,
and now, Ezekiel, who knows what kind of condition he's in?
Well, you can see what had happened to our commentary position here.
It's destroyed.
[Judgment Day's music plays]
Ezekiel in much worse shape. He's being attended to in the back.
We'll keep you updated about his condition.
-[bell rings] -[announcer] The following contest
is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by Damian Priest,
representing the Judgment Day,
Finn Bálor.
[Jimmy] Appropriate after what we saw from Kevin Owens,
another Team willing to do anything to incapacitate their opponent,
the Judgment Day.
[Corey] The unholy trinity of Priest, Bálor, and Ripley have run roughshod
over Monday Night Raw since initially betraying their creator
the Hall of Famer, Edge, who is dead set on vengeance,
but tonight it is one-on-one. Finn Bálor and Rey Mysterio.
[Saxton] How much do you think that Finn Bálor and Damian Priest
are loving now the apparent tension between Rey Mysterio, his son Dominik,
and Edge, all caused by what they did last week?
[Jimmy] They have said over and over what their mission is, to sow dissension.
You never know who's going to join.
You never know who they might attack.
[Corey] This game is as much mental as it is physical,
and the Judgment Day are solving it week after week after week.
[crowd boos]
Edge thinks we should fear him.
Rey Mysterio thinks that we should fear him.
The two of them can't even get on the same page.
Poor little Dominik Mysterio's already abandoned both of them.
-[crowd boos] -The Judgment Day
isn't afraid of anyone.
You know why? Because fear isn't real.
Fear is a product of your imagination,
but you know what? Danger is real.
Danger is very real, and Rey Mysterio, tonight,
you're going to find out that I am danger.
[crowd boos]
Edge, I'm going to be clear with you.
If I wanted to, tonight, I would lay you out,
but, in two weeks, we're in Toronto.
Edge hasn't wrestled on Monday Night Raw in Toronto in, what, 12 years?
Well, here it is.
I'm officially challenging you to a match.
One-on-one, you and me.
The Rated-R Superstar versus The Punishment of the Judgment Day.
If you still have a set, let's end this.
Edge, you may have started The Judgment Day,
but in Toronto, in front of your family,
and whatever friends you have left,
the Judgment Day will end you.
-[crowd cheers] -[Judgment Day's music continues]
[Corey] Wow.
A highly Threatening message delivered by Damian Priest.
[crowd cheers]
Brother, everything okay with Dom?
I can't find him anywhere.
I called his cell phone, he's not picking up.
Yes, he's lost.
All right, well, listen. My offer from earlier still stands.
Especially after Priest just called me out to a match.
I'll come out there with you.
Edge, I know my son.
He'll come to his senses, man, but that'll make things worse.
He'll be out there tonight, I know he will.
-Okay. Go get him. -Appreciate it.
[intense music playing]
[Saxton] The match brought to you by Sonic. This is how we Sonic.
Rey Mysterio will try to put the distractions of Dominik and Edge
to the side and focus on payback,
as Rey Mysterio goes one-on-one with the Judgment day's Finn Bálor next,
live on Raw, in a match brought to you by Sonic.
This is how we Sonic.
[upbeat music playing]
[Judgment Day's music plays]
1.3 billion views, and the Judgment Day,
they want all of those eyeballs on them.
[Corey] It's a massive opportunity
for Finn Bálor to dispose of Mysterio once and for all,
but it will not be easy.
[Rey Mysterio's music plays]
[crowd cheers]
[announcer] And his opponent, from San Diego, California,
Rey Mysterio.
[Jimmy] They are on their feet here in Cleveland for the legend, Rey Mysterio.
[Saxton] Rey Mysterio's got ample reason to be motivated here
against the Judgment Day, but look, guys,
there's no way that this issue with Dominik Mysterio's
not weighing on Rey right now.
We even heard from Rey before the break saying, "Don't worry,
I know Dominik will be out here. I know my son will be by my side."
Well, look at the scene right here.
Rey Mysterio coming down to the ring alone.
[Corey] This, in my opinion, does not bode well for Rey Mysterio.
Rey needs to be laser-focused on the task ahead which is Finn Bálor,
the danger of the Judgment Day.
Plus, Rey's got to figure in Damian Priest lurking on the outside,
Rhea Ripley may be in the building somewhere.
Who knows what other members of the Judgment Day
are populating Cleveland.
You don't know. But Rey needs to stay focused
on Bálor and Bálor alone.
[Saxton] As great as Rey Mysterio is, we all know that.
This is a lot for Rey to contend with here tonight by himself.
[Jimmy] He's looking over his shoulder for Dominik Mysterio.
His son, nowhere in sight.
[Corey] Rey shouldn't have cheaped out on the babysitter.
[Jimmy whispering] Oh, stop.
[bell rings]
[Jimmy] This match brought to you by Sonic.
This is how we Sonic.
[Corey] Bálor gaining the early advantage
off of the opening bell,
[Jimmy] Finn Bálor as a competitor
knows all about Rey Mysterio, as does most of the WWE locker room.
Rey has inspired Finn, in Finn's own career.
The fact is, Bowler and the Judgment Day
are out to destroy your idols, to destroy everything
that you hold sacred, and that can all begin tonight
with the greatest mask of all time.
[Saxton] That's a great point. If Finn Bálor could
potentially defeat Rey Mysterio here tonight.
And then we heard the challenge from Damian Priest.
Challenging Edge in two weeks,
in his hometown of Toronto
to a matchup here on Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] Mind games from Damian Priest, and how sweet would it be for a Priest
and the entire Judgment Day to put that a final nail
in Edge's coffin, in his own hometown?
[Jimmy] Everything on Rey Mysterio's mind right now.
Also the fact that the last time these two--
squared off one on one, Finn Bálor got the victory.
Dominik Mysterio agreed to join the Judgment Day
to save his father from a further beating.
It was not a good night for Rey Mysterio.
[Corey] Rey needs to compartmentalize all of those issues.
Rey needs to focus on Bálor.
And using what brought Rey to the top of the mountain,
the greatest underdog of all time.
[Jimmy] But every time Rey stops, every time he pauses,
he seems to look around for his son.
[Saxton] Then he's got to look around at Damian Priest
on the other side of the ring and be aware of what he's doing.
[Jimmy] It's supposed to be one on one tonight.
We know with the Judgment Day, it is never one on one.
[Saxton] Rey Mysterio doing a good job keeping his emotions in check here
against Finn Bálor.
Hurricanrana right into the turnbuckle.
-[Jimmy] Hey. -[crowd cheering]
Gotta seize the momentum now!
Yes. Finn Bálor, great reversal.
-But look at the speed of Rey-- -[Corey] Aw! Ho-ho!
[Jimmy] Moved by Finn Bálor. Clearly did his homework.
[Saxton] Now dodging that springboard cross body
attempt from Rey Mysterio,
[Corey] Finn Bálor truly a student of this game,
traveling around the globe,
dominating Mexico,
dominating Japan before arriving in WWE.
For Finn Bálor, the sky truly is the limit.
The very first ever WWE Universal champion,
Seems like Finn is reinvigorated ever since
he aligned himself with the Judgment Day.
[Jimmy] You talk about what he's accomplished in the ring Corey but,
joining The Judgment Day has given him an edge, a focus, a viciousness
that he felt he didn't have and that lack held him back in his career.
[Corey] What is quite clear, The Judgment Day have been very open
about the fact it's no longer about the fans.
It's no longer about the adulation of the WWE Universe.
It's about winning at all costs and destroying all that you hold sacred.
[Saxton] Great counter.
-The offensive attack there Finn Bálor. -[Jimmy] The sunset flip, shoulders down.
[Jimmy] Great escape by Finn Bálor.
[Saxton] Uh-oh.
-[all] Oh! -[Jimmy] The dagger from Bálor.
-that might do it. -[Saxton] To the cover!
-[referee] One, two-- -[Jimmy] A kick out just in time
for Rey Mysterio.
Still maybe wondering if Dominik would come out
and be a factor in this match so far,
functionally two-one, it's supposed to be one-on-one.
But Finn Bálor has the emotional support of Damian Priest.
Rey Mysterio, all alone tonight.
[Saxton] Yeah, we don't know what's going on in the mind of Rey Mysterio.
If he is fully locked in.
If he is having this emotional battle with himself…
-[Jimmy] He can't afford that right now. -[Saxton] Right now,
[Saxton] It is Finn Bálor in full control
-and making it personal now. -[crowd boos]
[Corey] The ultimate disrespect to Rey Mysterio.
Bálor mocking the great Eddie Guerrero and the Three Amigos.
[crowd boos]
This is just salt in the wound.
[crowd boos]
[Saxton] Reversal!
[Jimmy] Beautiful payback from Rey Mysterio.
[Saxton] What can Rey Mysterio do with this opening?
[Jimmy] Can he capitalize, Rey Mysterio, right now?
Trying to get back to his feet, struggling.
Being the warrior, being a giant slayer,
defying the odds is what has made him a legend.
[Saxton] Rey now, picking up momentum here, against Bálor.
The sunset flip-- oh the trump kick right in the forehead of Bálor
-[Jimmy] To the cover! -[all] One! Two--
[Saxton] Out just in time, the kick out.
Barely getting that shoulder up in time is Finn Bálor.
[Saxton] Talk about what this would do to Judgment day for Bálor to score
a victory. What would it do for Rey Mysterio?
[Jimmy] Possibly what it'd do for the family dynamic of Rey Mysterio
if he beats Finn Bálor, here tonight.
[Corey] Rey Mysterio and Dominik may have thought they left the rear--
The judgment in their rear view mirror after SummerSlam…
[crowd] Three! Four!
-[Jimmy] Judgment Day's been so tenacious. -[Saxton] On the shoulders of Finn Bálor.
-[Jimmy] Great counter by Rey. -[all] Oh!
[Corey] Face first goes Finn.
[Jimmy] Move and counter-move. To the cover, trying to finish it.
Nope.
Fatigue on the face of Rey Mysterio.
Finn Bálor giving everything he could with that kick out.
[Corey] Take a look at this,
Rey, countering into a bulldog.
Mysterio buying himself some valuable time.
But is it enough to turn the tides in this matchup?
Maybe so. Ready to tie him up here in Cleveland.
-[Saxton] Rey Mysterio looking for the-- -[all] Oh!
[Saxton] 619 to Priest!
[Jimmy] It got Priest, but Bálor, now--
Damian Priest sacrificing himself.
And this match continues.
[Corey] I don't know if Rey is getting up.
[slow music playing]
-[music increases in tempo] -[crowd cheering]
[intense music playing]
[announcer] The two-night blockbuster event…
…is coming.
Wrestlemania goes Hollywood, live at Sophie Stadium.
Saturday April 1st and Sunday April 2nd.
Tickets available this Friday.
[Jimmy] Welcome back to what has been a battle of attrition between
Rey Mysterio and Finn Bálor of The Judgment Day,
putting one another to their absolute limits.
[Corey] Rey Mysterio trying to fight his way out of a precarious situation.
Short jab to the ribs of Bálor.
[Saxton] Rey Mysterio feels very at home in this high risk scenario.
[Corey] Bowler hanging on for dear life to the top rope.
[all] Oh-ho!
[Corey] Very clever maneuver by the veteran Rey Mysterio.
[Saxton] Bálor now with Rey, Rey trying to re-position himself.
Sends Bálor all the way to the outside.
[Corey] Beautiful arm-- arm-drag transition.
To the outside. Into the barricade, goes Finn Bálor.
[crowd cheering]
[Saxton] Despite the distractions of-- of Damian Priest.
[Jimmy] Said something about distractions?
[Saxton] Always have to worry about Damian Priest
and the rest of The Judgment Day.
[indistinct conversation]
[Corey] Rey taking his eye off the task at hand,
off the ball, that is Finn Bálor.
Priest a moment ago, making mention of the fact that--
[indistinct shouting]
[Jimmy] This is what you had to be afraid of.
-You had to be concerned about this-- -[crowd shouting]
[Saxton] We've got an equalizer.
[Jimmy] Edge gave his word.
"The Judgment Day becomes a problem.
I'm gonna be a problem for them."
[Saxton] Edge attempting to resume his well-stated mission,
to kill the Judgment Day.
[Jimmy] And they are brawling into the stands.
[Corey] Look of disbelief on the face of Finn Bálor.
The Rated-R superstar and Damian Priest battling out
in the fans here in Cleveland.
[Saxton] Well, we still got a match going on between Rey Mysterio and Finn Bálor.
[Jimmy] Finn Bálor lost his help.
Rey Mysterio now can take advantage.
-[all] One! Two! -[exclaims]
[Jimmy] Bálor barely escaping before the count of three.
[Saxton] So ridiculously close.
[Jimmy] Rey Mysterio, with all his experience cannot believe it.
[Corey] Rey Mysterio has a lot more weighing on his mind than usual tonight,
but still showing glimpses of greatness. The code red shoulder's down,
nearly ended this one, but Bálor hangs in.
[Saxton] Fortunate for Rey, no longer having to worry about the presence
-of Damian Priest at ringside. -[crowd cheers]
[Saxton] Mysterio,
-shifting the advantage… -[crowd cheering]
-…into his corner. -[crowd cheering]
-And prepare to-- -[Jimmy] What a counter
from Finn Bálor to the 619!
[Corey] Do it like that in the 216.
-Bálor now-- -[Saxton] Jaw dropkick in the corner,
and we are closing in on the bitter end.
-Mysterio down in the drop zone. -[crowd boos]
Will Bálor drop the Hammer?
[Jimmy] Coming across, but nobody home.
[Saxton] Rey Mysterio now--
-We're gonna try this one more time. -[crowd cheering]
Bálor in position.
-[Jimmy] Wait! -[Corey] What the hell?
[Saxton] Rhea Ripley?
[Jimmy] It's Dominik.
He's absolutely destroyed.
[Saxton] Finn Bálor from behind now.
[Jimmy] Taking advantage of the distraction by Ripley.
[Corey] 1916, and the climb to the top.
Here comes the dagger from the prince.
Coup de grace right through the guts of Rey Mysterio.
[all] One! Two! Three!
[closing bell dinging]
[announcer] He's your winner,
Finn Bálor!
[Corey] Rhea Ripley was the distraction at exactly the right time.
[Jimmy] A distraction and potentially the destruction
of Rey's son, Dominik.
[Jimmy] What in the world happened to Dominik Mysterio?
[Corey] Just as Rey was looking to finish things off,
Bálor once again in position for the 619.
The distraction would stop Rey dead in his tracks.
Look at the power of Rhea Ripley as she simply dumps Dominik.
[Jimmy] And Rey Mysterio, understandably frozen and…
that jarring image with the match would resume.
[Corey] Bálor would spike Mysterio,
make the familiar climb up top
and the coup de grace.
The bitter end.
[Saxton] Once again it's the physical
and perhaps even more importantly, psychological advantage
for the Judgment Day.
A father looking at his battered son.
Rey Mysterio's heart has got to be broken right now.
[upbeat music playing]
Well, the Judgment Day continue to thrive, continue to ask the question.
What is next?
The big question for the WWE universe, about what would be next
was, what is next for the women's tagteam title?
We get part of that answer tonight.
We'll take the first step
in crowning new WWE women's tag team champions.
It is a star studded field. Plenty of familiar faces.
But what I want to know is, what does the X-factor,
that is presented by Nikita Lyons and Zoey Stark from NXT pose
for the rest of the field, two true unknowns?
If you catch them on Tuesday night, you know they're legit.
I'm very curious to see how this field plays out.
[Saxton] It's an exciting time.
Eight teams, one opportunity to become women's tag team champions.
[hip-hop music playing]
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome my guest at this time,
Tamina and the 24-7 champion, Dana Brook.
[crowd cheering]
Ladies, what does it mean to you to compete
in the WWE Women's Tag Team championship tournament.
For me, Sarah, it's an opportunity to become a double champion.
And with the women's tag team titles in the picture,
I need a partner to get there, and you know what?
I've defended my title a lot.
With my biggest challenge, Tamina,
-So tonight-- -[laughs sarcastically] Okay, relax.
We're not going to roll you up for that title, okay?
We have our eyes set on titles that suit us.
And you know why the women's tag team championships suit us?
Because I was the first one to hold them.
But you wouldn't know anything about that, now would you, Dana Brooke?
But I do. So keep yapping your mouth, Bayley.
I don't mind taking you and your little friends out of this tournament right now.
See you out there, champ.
[speaking Japanese] I don't like you.
[Jimmy] Well, Bayley takes her first step when it's Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky
versus Tamina and Dana Brooke.
[announcer] Vaping can expose you to toxic metals,
like nickel, chromium and lead that can damage your lungs.
[Jimmy] Just in case you're wondering where that fashion sense came from,
And that physique Byron, that's where.
[Saxton] I was wondering. Dana Brooke,
a degree in fashion from Kent State University.
Also competed in the Arnold Classic for bodybuilding,
and Dana could add tag team champion,
-to her list of accolades. -[Bayley's music plays]
[Corey] Someone who has a lot to say about that.
[Iyo Sky's music plays]
[Corey] Three eminent high flyers in the game today.
A former NXT women's champion, Iyo Sky
[Dakota Kai's music plays]
We're about to catch our first glimpse
on Monday Night Raw of in-ring action from this woman, Dakota Kai.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following is a first round match
of the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship Tournament.
Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by Bayley,
Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai.
[Saxton] Well, the challenge was laid down earlier on tonight.
It is now official for Clash at the Castle.
On one side, the Raw Women's champion, Bianca Belair,
teaming up with Asuka and Alexa Bliss,
will take on the team of Bayley, Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky.
Think about the momentum for a win tonight from Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky.
[Jimmy] Monday Night Raw is brought to you by the Sonic Big Deal cheeseburger
for a limited time only at Sonic.
[Saxton] Look at this tandem of Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai handpicked
by Bayley's help to reinvigorate and re-infuse the hunger,
into the women's division here on Raw.
[Dana Brooke's music plays]
[Tamina's music plays]
[Corey] Here are two women who have spent the better part of the last several months
chasing after one another, regarding the 24-7 championship.
Let's see how they work together.
[announcer] And their opponents,
a team of the 24-7 champions, Dana Brooke
and Tamina!
[Saxton] We've seen this before. Sometimes your strongest enemies
can become your biggest allies.
[Jimmy] And Tamina, that look on her face.
She's at her best when she's at her meanest.
[Jimmy] Bayley may have brought that out in her.
[Saxton] What it looks like to me, Bayley, Iyo and Dakota
have put the entire Raw Women's Division on the defensive.
In a short period of time, Bayley has masterminded this uprising,
that has really, really shaken the women's division to its core.
and it could continue tonight,
as Iyo and Dakota look to take one step closer
to becoming WWE Women's Tag Team Champions.
[Jimmy] Well, you can surprise people with a walk-in at SummerSlam.
But when you're able to get past the first round
of the Women's Tag Team Championship Tournament, that's a huge step.
[Corey] We're about to get our first glimpse of Dakota Kai.
We talk about superstars having educated feet in the ring.
Dakota Kai's feet have a PhD.
She will kick the features right off your face
and not feel bad about it.
[Saxton] You look at it from an experience standpoint,
obviously, Dana Brooke and Tamina have more experience
-as far as competition here on Raw but-- -[Jimmy] That's where it ends.
We were talking world travel competition.
Dakota Kai has been around the globe.
-She's had her stints in NXT. -[Saxton] Cover!
[Jimmy] Dakota Kai, in fact, was one-half of the NXT Women's Tag Team Champions.
Dakota is a force to be reckoned with.
And that's why Bayley uses her as an ally.
[Saxton] Add to your point, I mean the relationship between
Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky goes back to their days in Japan.
Nearly 10 years ago.
[Corey] A tag is made at Tamina.
No matter how much experience you have, you cannot game plan for power.
[Saxton] Tamina felt disrespected earlier on.
[Corey] Ain't nobody meaner than Tamina.
And that's when she's in a good mood.
[all] Oh!
[Corey] The bull in the China shop, but unfortunately,
the China shop right now, the jaw of Dakota Kai.
[Jimmy] Oh, my goodness.
[Saxton] That attitude of Tamina is what propelled her
to become one half of the women's tag team champions.
[Jimmy] Planting the suplex. Unreal.
[Corey] Smart move by Dakota, rolling to the outside.
Recalibrate their game plan.
But Dana Brooke looking to make something happen from the top.
-[Saxton] Dana Brooke taking-- Oh! -[Jimmy] High-flying,
laying out Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai!
Can they recover?
-Get back! -[inaudible] They don't need me.
-Oh, they don't need you? -They don't need me.
-Clearly. -They don't need me.
[Brooke] Okay.
[Corey] Welcome back to the first round
of the WWE Women's Tag Team Championship Tournament.
Dakota Kai, Iyo Sky versus Dana Brooke and Tamina.
[Corey] Dakota Kai in complete control.
This went down during the break.
Dakota would send Dana Brooke to the outside and Iyo Sky
-would send Dana over a barricade. -[Saxton] Cover!
[Jimmy] A kick out from Dakota Kai, been wondering about the teamwork
of Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai.
So far it's been on point, cover again.
Think about the knowledge too that Bayley,
as one half of the first ever women's tag team champions,
has imparted upon both Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai.
[Corey] It's all about experience, not only for Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky
but under the tutelage of Bayley. All three women--
[Jimmy] Oh-ho!
[Corey] I forgot what I was going to say.
Dakota kicked her so hard.
[Jimmy] Look at the teamwork.
[Jimmy] Back and forth destruction of Dana Brooke.
To the cover!
[Corey] That's what it's going to take. Teamwork.
A lot of these teams seem a little makeshift. They're temporary alliances.
But when you can get on the same page as your partner,
it makes you a very, very strong force to be reckoned with.
Which is what we're seeing right now from Kai and Sky.
[Jimmy] These are two of the eight teams involved
in the Women's Tag Team Title Tournament.
Teams that span not just Monday Night Raw, but
Friday Night Smackdown and NXT 2.0.
[Jimmy] And the viciousness right now from Iyo Sky.
Knees-- right to the chest of a helpless Dana Brooke.
To the cover again, hooking the leg.
But again, Bayley's been very vocal about giving the opportunity
to Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky.
And Bayley's vision of what the Raw women's division looks like.
This is what it looks like.
World traveled, world class competitors.
[Corey] And she's questioned the hunger of the veterans in the locker room.
-Now, veterans like Dana Brooke-- -[Jimmy] Tamina being called out.
[Jimmy] It remains to be seen if that-- hold on a second.
It remains to be seen if that strategy
is actually going to work out in the long term.
This fire, quote unquote, that Bayley is attempting to light
under the entire women's division.
-[crowd chanting] Bayley sucks! -[Corey] Conversely when you're someone
with as much cache as Bayley…
-[chanting continues] -…and you're making these broad claims
-about taking over the-- these idiots… -[chanting continues]
…in Cleveland have no respect.
[Jimmy] They are very vocal here in Cleveland, how they feel about Bayley.
[Saxton] Well, Bayley clearly disrespected them earlier, so…
-[chanting continues] -Can't be surprised.
-[Jimmy] Dana Brooke. Oh! -[Saxton] Oh, my God!
[Jimmy] To the cover! Trying to get back in this--
[Jimmy] So close.
[Corey] Almost distraught on the outside.
[Jimmy] Desperation time for a tag.
[Saxton] Both Dakota Kai and Dana Brooke.
[Jimmy] Going to crawl to her corner
and prevent Dana Brooke from getting to Tamina.
So far, very good at keeping Tamina from being much of a factor in this match.
-[Saxton] Oh, it's a tag! -[crowd cheering]
[Jimmy] In comes Tamina. Iyo Sky completely caught by surprise.
[Saxton] Tamina! Unleashing her own paralleled aggression
all over Iyo Sky.
[Jimmy] Talk about Iyo Sky, the high flyer right now.
Tamina sending her flying
right into the turnbuckle.
[Saxton] Tamina understands the magnitude of this match.
The opportunity at hand to take one step closer
to becoming one half of the women's tag team champions.
[Jimmy] Oh! Beautiful kick from Sky.
And a battle back against the powerhouse.
Ah!
-[Jimmy] Shotei by Sky. -[Saxton] Oh!
[Saxton] Super kick response there by-- Tamina!
[Jimmy] That could be it for Iyo. Shoulders down.
Just in time is Dakota Kai.
[Saxton] Dana Brooke back into the mix.
And she gets sent down by Dakota Kai.
This brawl is going to continue on the outside of the ring.
Brooke charging ahead-- oh!
[Jimmy] Bayley! Pulls Dakota Kai out of the way.
[Corey] What's that's saying you taught me earlier about Kent State, Jimmy?
-It might just apply. -[Jimmy] "Anytime--"
Tamina and Iyo Sky battling it out.
[Corey] Tag is made, unbeknownst to Tamina-- maybe she did know.
[Saxton] Beautiful move from Tamina.
[Jimmy] Right now carrying this tag team on her shoulders.
[Saxton] Maybe on the verge of carrying this tag team to victory
if Tamina hits this.
[crowd cheering]
[Saxton] Iyo Sky motionless.
Tamina!
[Jimmy] Right into the boots of Iyo Sky.
[Corey] Tamima was able to stop her momentum
but a scorpion kick from Kai.
[Corey] Who is the legal competitor? Oh-ho!
Tag is made.
This is where Iyo is right at home.
[Jimmy] About to get airborne here in Cleveland.
[Corey] Oh, my God. Moonsault.
[all] One, two, three!
[bell rings]
[crowd cheering]
[announcer] Here are your winners. The team of Dakota Kai
and Iyo Sky.
[Jimmy] Put up or shut up was the order of the day in this match,
and Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky under a lot of pressure.
They performed.
[Saxton] Look how fired up Bayley is knowing they answered the call.
Answered the pressure. And Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky
are one step closer to the Tag Team titles.
This is in part why Bayley provided the opening.
And then Dakota Kai with a nasty strike.
-And then Iyo Sky, take it to the air! -[crowd cheering]
Her comfort zone, move zone.
The cover, that it is Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky,
who will advance in the WWE Women's Tag Team Tournament.
As you see right there.
By virtue of their victory,
it is Iyo Sky and Dakota Kai who will face the winner
of Alexa Bliss and Asuka, against Doudrop and Nikki A.S.H.
[Jimmy] They are not thinking about that.
Right now they're thinking about the victory tonight.
What it does for their team.
[hip-hop music playing]
[Jimmy] Do not adjust your televisions, ladies and gentlemen.
That is the The All Mighty Bobby Lashley warming up.
Getting ready for a tough challenge in Ciampa, United States Championship
on the line next.
[Jimmy] We were supposed to have a match between Kevin Owens and Ezekiel.
Instead, we got an assault.
[Corey] Got a more ruthless, more aggressive Kevin Owens
than we have seen in months.
Owens' emotions have boiled over,
and all of his frustrations were taken out on the head and spine of Ezekiel.
[Jimmy] Case in point, the apron power bomb
delivered by Kevin Owens.
-And this was the result. -We got you buddy.
We got you buddy, you're ready?
[Jimmy] Ezekiel stretchered out of the arena.
-Excuse me, Kevin. -What?
-Excuse me, Kevin. -What? What?
I'm just looking for a comment,
on why you brutally assaulted Ezekiel earlier tonight.
You want a comment?
First comment, if you ever run up on me like that again,
I'm going to drop you harder than I just did Ezekiel, you got it?
You want to know why I did what I did?
You see, because unlike that idiot out there
who doesn't seem to know who he is,
I know exactly who I am.
I'm Kevin Owens, and I've been gone a little while
but I know there's more eyes on this show now than there's been in a long time.
So I thought tonight--
Tonight was the perfect opportunity, to remind everybody in the back.
And everybody watching, that this…
This is still the Kevin Owens show!
[crowd cheering]
[upbeat music playing]
Not only a statement tonight from Kevin Owens.
A warning to the entire Raw roster.
This is still the K.O. show!
Well, I wish I could say it was just Ezekiel who was hurt tonight, but no.
Also, Dominik Mysterio, at the hands of The Judgment Day.
[Saxton] Dominik Mysterio was not at ringside.
Rey Mysterio tried to focus nonetheless
on his opponent, Finn Bálor--
But then-- well, if this would happen.
We'd find out why Dominik was not at ringside.
Because Dominic, apparently, not apparently, clearly had been attacked
by Rhea Ripley.
Rey understandably distracted by this jarring scene.
The match would still continue on.
But it was all Finn Bálor from this point forward.
Bálor--
from the top, eyeing Mysterio.
Delivering the coup de grace.
-And earning a victory over Rey. -[all] One, two, three!
[bell rings]
[Saxton] Guys, we continue to wonder,
what kind of condition is Dominik Mysterio in?
[indistinct conversation]
[Jimmy] Here's the hideous work done by the Judgment Day on Dominik Mysterio.
-[indistinct conversation] -[Saxton] Mysterio obviously
very concerned about his son, Dominik.
This just reminds us that this conflict with the Judgment Day
is far from over.
You can see Dominik Mysterio in a lot of pain.
We'll keep you updated about his condition,
but moving on with the night, on the line tonight,
the United States Championship, a championship with a proud history.
[serene instrumental music playing]
[John "Bradshaw" Layfield] America,
a country built on opportunity,
deserves a champion
that upholds its great legacy.
A legacy of greatness…
…is painted in red, white and blue.
The United States Heavyweight Title. Let me tell you about this title, brother.
The greatest have held this title.
This championship represents opportunity.
It gives me great pleasure to stand before all my fans.
As the United States Champion.
[Booker T] From this point on I will prove of that I am the best
this business has to offer.
Take a look, 'cause the Hitman's proved himself one more time.
Daddy is coming home a champion!
I'm the heartbeat of America!
I will be the next United States Champion!
I couldn't be more proud to be United States Champion!
[Lashley] I will defeat anyone anywhere, anytime.
'Cause I live for this.
[Ciampa] Nobody makes a title
more prestigious than the Black Heart.
All eyes on Ciampa.
[Jimmy] Bobby Lashley versus Ciampa for the United States Championship.
[Ciampa's music plays]
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] What a night it could be for this man.
[Jimmy] Walking in right now with confidence.
So much that confidence in how he was trained.
[Corey] Adorned in the robe worn by handsome Harley Race.
The first ever United States Champion
who was widely regarded as one of the toughest men ever
in this business.
[Saxton] You know, it's rare to get some insight
into the black heart of Ciampa.
But it was Ciampa who actually took to social media
and talked about his relationship
with the late great WWE Hall of Famer Harley Race.
Of course as you've mentioned Corey, The first man to hold
the United States Championship.
[Corey] Ciampa's going to need to summon
some of that Harley Race toughness tonight and find the black heart within
if the challenger wants to dethrone the dominant,
All Mighty, United States Champion, Bobby Lashley.
[Jimmy] Ciampa, Lashley, U.S. title, next.
[upbeat music playing]
[Jimmy] You see Ciampa in his homage robe.
His trainer, Harley Race is all of that motivation and energy,
of the toughest man to ever enter the ring.
You're going to need it tonight.
[Saxton] The Miz has said, under his tutelage
-Ciampa will be champion. -[speaking inaudibly]
[Bobby Lashley's music plays]
[crowd cheering]
[Jimmy] Well, that is a hard, hard task.
[Saxton] Oh, you're taking a look at the opposition.
[Corey] Cleveland, Ohio.
Behold the All Mighty!
[Jimmy] As All Mighty as he was, as strong as he was, as physical as he was,
becoming United States champion
has taken Bobby Lashley to even another level.
[Corey] We've seen over the past several months
Bobby Lashley forge an organic relationship,
a connection with the WWE universe
that has somehow managed to make Bobby even more driven,
even more motivated,
and even more dangerous than the All Mighty has ever been before.
[Saxton] This kind of sums it up for you.
Bobby Lashley is United States champion.
He's known WWE Hall of Famer Booker T for nearly 20 years.
Booker T--
Booker T stated, "this version of Bobby Lashley
is the hungriest he has ever seen."
[Corey] That hunger makes him so incredibly dangerous.
[Jimmy] The same can be said for the challenger.
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall!
The United States Championship.
Introducing the challenger, accompanied to the ring by The Miz,
weighing in at 201 pounds, Ciampa!
[crowd cheering]
And his opponent.
He is the United States Champion,
the All Mighty Bobby Lashley!
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] This is going to be a good one.
We always talk about styles make fights, Jimmy.
This is going to be a great example of the smash-mouth,
pure power style of the United States Champion,
versus the precision and experience,
the technical ability of Ciampa.
[Jimmy] And here we go right out of the gate.
Ciampa wasted no time looking for the upper hand.
Bringing the fight to the All Mighty.
[Saxton] Unquestionably, the highest-profile match
Ciampa has had here on Raw.
[Jimmy] Great techniques so far to avoid the power of Lashley.
When he hits you-- like running into a brick wall.
[Saxton] Easier said than done, when you talk about trying to avoid
the power of Bobby Lashley.
[Jimmy] Well, Ciampa's going to have to do it tonight.
[Corey] Look at this.
Look at the raw strength of the United States champion.
All the blood rushing to the head of the challenger.
[Saxton] Yeah, but desperately tried to wiggle free.
[Jimmy] Corey, how do you maintain that?
I don't want to say bravado, but your confidence
in the face of Bobby Lashley without making it a shootout
that you don't want to get into with a guy with the strength of Bobby Lashley.
[Corey] We talked about it a lot.
Ciampa may be a relatively fresh face on Monday Night Raw,
but Ciampa is not a rookie.
Being trained by handsome Harley Race,
spending time under the tutelage of Killer Kowalski.
And now learning from the Miz.
Ciampa has a Rhodes scholarship in this business.
But will that intelligence be enough to overcome the raw strength and ability
of a freak athlete like Bobby Lashley?
[Jimmy] Don't wanna get stuck in the corner, of course a long history
between the Miz and Bobby Lashley.
-[Jimmy] Oh-- that is strength! -[Saxton] Ciampa-- mid air by Lashley.
This may not end well, Ciampa able to slip out.
[Corey] Smart move. Chop block.
We're going to soften up the knee of the All Mighty United States champion.
And the Miz on the outside cheering Ciampa on.
[crowd exclaims]
[Saxton] Well, that didn't have that much effect.
[Jimmy] These chops, you can hear, but they might not be a great idea.
-[all] Oh! -[Corey] My God. My goodness!
[crowd cheering]
[Jimmy] Elbow absolutely flattening Ciampa.
Taking a page out of the Miz's book.
[Saxton] I just think Ciampa could have done it.
He had to find a way to save himself.
[crowd shouting]
[Corey] Take a look at the speed of Bobby Lashley,
back elbow right on the ear of Ciampa.
[Corey] That meatball shot right through the ear.
[Saxton] Ciampa, the smile on his face. And this is why--
The Miz trying to install himself into this match.
[Corey] Lashley is not just pure power.
Lashley is a highly intelligent competitor.
When Lashley needs to solve you on the fly
in the middle of a match, Bobby can do that.
[referee] Hey, get out of there! Back it off!
[Jimmy] Miz now interfering.
-[Saxton] Get out of the way, Miz! -[referee] Back it off!
[Jimmy] Oh! No mercy from Bobby Lashley.
Taking out the Miz with his own protege.
[Corey] United States Championship on the line.
[Jimmy] Welcome back to Cleveland, Ohio.
Where the United States Championship is on the line.
And Bobby Lashley, may be feeling the title slipping away.
Momentum now, with the challenger, Ciampa.
[Saxton] Ciampa learning from the Miz.
Clearly looking for some more shortcuts here against the United States champion.
[Corey] Ciampa knows full well, he's not going to match power
with the All Mighty Bobby Lashley, so you have to get creative.
[Saxton] To the cover.
[Saxton] You call it creative. Other people call it cheating.
[Saxton] Kick out at one for Bobby Lashley.
[Corey] You know who calls it being creative Saxton, champions.
Because that's how you become one.
Take a look at this.
Moments ago.
Lashley attempting to get back in the ring
and Ciampa meeting the All Mighty with a knee to the jaw.
[Jimmy] Bulldog position with the chin lock.
Taking the energy out of Bobby Lashley here on Monday Night Raw.
United States Championship on the line.
[Corey] We are in Cleveland, Ohio
Rockets Mortgage Fieldhouse, the United States Championship on the line.
The All Mighty Bobby Lashley, defending against challenger Ciampa.
[Saxton] Lashley now. Just when you think you can down Lashley,
you've got to be-- He explodes on you like this.
[Jimmy] Ciampa, winning a Triple Threat last week.
And then defeating the phenomenal one, AJ Styles.
A little help from the Miz.
He has earned this opportunity, right now, might be regretting it.
[Saxton] Lashley has said time and time again,
he does not believe there is a man walking the planet
who can defeat him for the United States title.
Ciampa gets the boot up just in time.
[Corey] You talked about being trained by Harley-- he raises Ciampa--
-under the tutelage of the Miz… -[Saxton] Oh!
…he's had enough tricks to stay in this match,
-but they might be over! -[all] One, two--
[Corey] Kick out just in time.
[Saxton] Ciampa preserving his opportunity.
There is a lot of motivation for Bobby Lashley.
Bobby Lashley first won the United States Title 17 years ago.
So holding that title represents the maturation of his career.
[Corey] Lashley now, better than ever.
[Jimmy] A beautiful escape and counter from Ciampa.
[Corey] Great reverse DDT from Ciampa taking down the champion.
-The challenger rolling into a cover. -[Jimmy] The cover!
And not a full cover. Not going to hold down Bobby Lashley.
[Saxton] Looks to me like Miz's beginning to sweat a little bit.
as we look back again at the incredible power of Lashley reversed
by a resourceful challenger in Ciampa.
[Corey] Defeated Theory for the title at money in the bank.
[Saxton] You do not want to get in a striking matchup here
with Bobby Lashley if you're Ciampa.
[Jimmy] Retained it at SummerSlam against Theory again,
and that will to succeed, that ability to battle back over and over.
-Lashley got spiked. Big opportunity. -To the cover.
One, two--
[Jimmy] That will now on display, getting that left shoulder up.
[Corey] This is where we find out what Ciampa is truly made of.
Does Ciampa still have touch with The Blackheart inside?
Will Ciampa find the ruthless side that has served him so well
through the majority of his career?
This could do it. Ciampa wants the Fairytale Ending,
but can he hook the massive shoulders of the champion?
-[Jimmy] Lashley, Spear! -[Corey] Spear!
-That's it. -[Jimmy] Oh!
[Saxton] Thanks for coming, Ciampa.
[Jimmy] To the cover. One, two--
-[Saxton] Oh, no. -[Corey] Oh, The Miz!
[Jimmy] Lifting up the foot of Ciampa and put it on the ropes.
[Saxton] Someone get him out of here.
[Jimmy] After a spear folded Ciampa in half, this would be done.
[Saxton] Yeah, Ciampa was done.
Clam down! Clam down! I didn't do anything!
-[Jimmy] Bobby Lashley-- -[Corey] Look out. AJ!
AJ Styles!
Where the hell did AJ Styles come from?
[Saxton] I don't know where he came from,
but he's making sure The Miz is no longer a factor in this match.
[Jimmy] It is now truly one-on-one, the United States Champion.
[Saxton] The Miz has hightailed it out of here.
-[Corey] Inside cradle! -[Jimmy] A cradle!
One, two… Oh!
Ciampa once again looking to bend the rules a little bit,
cause a distraction of some sort,
trying to rip the protective padding off the turnbuckle.
[Saxton] Pure desperation from Ciampa.
[Corey] Face-first driven down.
[Jimmy] Bobby Lashley looks poised and ready
-to retain his United States Championship. -[Saxton] Uh-oh.
Lashley about to-- Miz is back?
[Corey] And so is Styles!
[Saxton] The match is still going on.
[Jimmy] Neither man touched either superstar.
This match is still going on. It's still legal.
[Corey] Lashley could be-- there it is. Looking for the Hurt Lock,
-countered by Ciampa. -[Jimmy] Oh, no, the exposed turnbuckle!
Again!
[Corey] And into the ring post shoulder first.
-Boom! -[Jimmy] A high knee from Ciampa.
-We're about to see a new champion! -[Saxton] Not like this!
-[crowd] …two-- -[Saxton] Oh!
I don't know how the heck he pulled it off,
but somehow Lashley was able to kick out.
[Corey] Lashley wanted the Hurt Lock, Ciampa sensed it coming.
First into the exposed turnbuckle, then boom,
round two, shoulder into the post, followed by the knee.
Ciampa could taste it as he can now…
[Jimmy] Looking for the Fairytale Ending. Oh, my God, what a counter.
-[Saxton] Unreal. -[Corey] Looking for the Hurt Lock.
Ciampa sensed it coming again.
Uh-oh, uh-oh!
Sometimes if you're looking for a submission,
you got to do it yourself.
[Saxton] Lashley in major peril right now.
Are we moments away from crowning a new United States Champion?
[Corey] There is no escape for The All Mighty.
[Jimmy] Look at the crank applied by Ciampa.
-Lashley turning it around! -[Saxton] Reversal.
[Saxton] Look at the strength, the power,
the reserves from Lashley.
[Jimmy] Ciampa has used every trick in the book and they continue.
[Corey] Lashley sent to the outside.
Uh-oh. Oh!
Willow's Bell!
That's going to do it.
That is it.
-One, two-- -[commentators exclaim]
[Jimmy] Unbelievable.
[Corey] I don't know how the hell he does it.
[Jimmy] Ciampa can't believe it either.
[Corey] Ciampa reaching deep in his bag of tricks,
ringing Willow's Bell,
spiking The All Mighty,
but Bobby survives, and Cleveland is alive for The All Mighty.
[Jimmy] Rocking with chants of Bobby.
[Saxton] Lashley blocked the knee!
[Corey] Oh!
[Saxton] An angry Lashley has just been activated.
[Jimmy] And the Hurt Lock is on!
Nowhere to go for Ciampa.
[Saxton] How long can Ciampa hold on now?
[referee] That's it!
[Saxton] And there's the tap.
-[bell rings] -[Saxton] Wow, wow, wow.
[Bobby Lashley's music plays]
[announcer] Here is your winner by submission
and still the United States Champion,
"The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley.
[Jimmy] Forget the strength, forget the arms,
this was about the iron will of Bobby Lashley.
[Corey] Well, the massive arms certainly helped, Jimmy.
The All Mighty fighting through all of the adversity,
enduring the threat presented by The Miz
on the outside thanks to an assist from AJ Styles.
Here we see the Spear where it looked like
Lashley had this one in hand,
but The A-Lister would be a game-changer.
[Saxton] Well, thanks to that interference,
there would be none other than "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles
who would do his part to make sure that The Miz
would no longer be a factor in this match.
And then Bobby Lashley reminding us once again
of his superhuman Herculean likeability
as the Hurt Lock cinched in,
-and Ciampa with no choice but to tap out. -[bell rings]
[Jimmy] When you thought the United States Championship
was gonna change hands, the chants of "Bobby"
kept Bobby Lashley in this match.
[Saxton] If you are anyone who dares oppose The All Mighty,
you have to ask, how do you beat him?
[Corey] Profound, Saxton.
If you're talking about unbeatable, look no further.
7'3" tall, 403 pounds.
The Nigeria Giant in action next.
[tense music playing]
[man] The two-night blockbuster event…
is coming.
WrestleMania Goes Hollywood.
Live at SoFi Stadium
Saturday, April 1st, and Sunday, April 2nd.
Tickets available this Friday.
[Saxton] We are here in Cleveland, Ohio.
That's right, Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse,
also a progressive field, the great skyline here in Cleveland.
It's bred some great fighters,
for example, The Miz as we saw moments ago against AJ Styles backstage.
[Corey] An altercation that began at ringside
during the United States title match spilled over into our backstage area.
Styles and Miz really wanting to get a piece of one another.
And the situation continued to escalate
until officials were able to separate the two.
[Saxton] We have some breaking news that stems from the discord
between these superstars that we now know it is official.
"The phenomenal" AJ Styles is set to go one-on-one
with The Miz tonight on Raw,
and ladies and gentlemen, that match will be contested
as a No Disqualification Match.
[Omos's music plays]
[Jimmy] When you talk about dominance on Monday Night Raw,
you have to mention this man.
[Corey] A man who makes the guardian of this city quiver with fear.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following is a two-on-one handicap match
scheduled for one fall.
Making his way to the ring, accompanied by MVP,
standing at 7'3", weighing in at 403 pounds,
"The Nigerian Giant" Omos!
[Jimmy] Well, coming soon to Javi shops and online Javi retailers
2022 Select WWE Trading Cards.
Collect all of your favorite WWE Superstars and capture the action
with Panini Select WWE.
Find them at paniniamerica.net and Javi shops nationwide.
[Saxton] Watching Omos march to the ring makes me want to run and hide,
and I'm not even in the ring.
[Corey] I wish you would go and run and hide, anyway, anywhere.
[Jimmy] Anyone who can casually step over the top rope
is a fearsome specimen.
[indistinct shouting]
[Corey] The Nigerian Giant under the tutelage of MVP,
one of the greatest minds in the game.
Here we see these two guys.
There's no use learning their names,
because, let's be honest, they're going to forget their own names
by the end of this match.
[Saxton] Can we say a prayer for them?
-Ring the bell! -[bell rings]
[Corey] Oh… Yeah. That's an exercise in futility.
[Jimmy] Normally we call two-on-one a handicap match,
and this certainly is one, but the other way.
[Corey] We may have to shovel this guy off of the canvas,
but at least he won't have cauliflower ears and--
how do you say leg day in Italian?
Anybody?
[Saxton] I'm just mesmerized by this destruction by Omos.
Remember, go back to Money in the Bank,
it took seven superstars just to temporarily disable Omos.
[roaring]
[Corey] A lot of people dream of being WWE Superstars,
but when you step in the ring with Omos,
it's time to get a new dream.
[roaring]
-[Saxton] This is the definition of a-- -[Jimmy] Oh, my god. Crossbody.
[Saxton] Bad day at the office for these two.
[Corey] Futile when it comes to Omos.
"How did Monday Night Raw go, sweetie?"
"Oh, I got thrown off a building."
[Saxton] Yeah, pretty much.
[Andrea Guercio screaming and groaning]
[Saxton] This is like playtime for Omos.
[Corey] Don't ever listen to anybody who tells you
following your dreams is always a good idea.
Because, sometimes, you wake up and Omos… Oh! …is your reality.
7'3", 400-plus pounds,
mean as the day is long.
Flattening his unfortunate opponents.
Oh!
[Saxton] Do we have a mercy rule?
-[Jimmy] A pin now would be merciful. -[MVP] Let's get out of here.
You're done with them.
[Corey] I'm enjoying this.
Let's keep this going. We've got another hour or so, right?
-[Saxton] Enjoying? -[Corey] I've got nowhere to be.
I could drive home tonight.
[Saxton] What kind of a sick human being are you?
[MVP] Finish him. Right now! That's it!
[Jimmy] MVP calling for the cover, and there it is.
-Ring the bell. -[bell rings]
-[Jimmy] One gigantic foot. -[Omos' music plays]
[announcer] Here is your winner, "The Nigerian Giant" Omos!
[Saxton] Certainly the expected result for The Nigerian Giant.
He really could have ended this match at any point.
[screaming]
[Saxton] Unrestrained dominance from Omos.
[Jimmy] And perhaps, more importantly, a message, a reminder
to the entire Raw locker room.
"If you dare step to me, this is what happens."
[MVP] Finish him. Right now!
[Saxton] That is a scary dude.
Of course, Omos continuing his path of destruction,
but we're all getting ready for WrestleMania to go Hollywood.
That's right, the biggest party of the year.
Get your tickets at ticketmaster.com this Friday.
Biggest event in sports entertainment.
Now, someone who had a great WrestleMania with RK-Bro,
we are going to hear from him at Monday Night Raw.
SummerSlam, however, didn't go great for Riddle.
[Corey] After being brutalized by Seth "Freakin" Rollins multiple times,
we will have an exclusive interview with Riddle on Monday Night Raw.
Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
-[laughs maniacally] -[crowd boos]
Seth, firstly, congratulations on your big victory tonight
over Angelo Dawkins.
With the news filtering through that Riddle is set to offer
an exclusive interview on his injury progress next week,
what do you think he's going to say?
Did you just bring me in here to ask me about Riddle?
I told the entire world, including you,
last week that I was done with Riddle.
[laughs maniacally]
What, is he going to come back next week for some exclusive interview?
What do you think he'll say?
Is he going to have some earth-shattering announcement?
No. It's Riddle!
I'll tell you what he's going to say.
He's going to say, "Bro."
"Dude."
"Cool."
"Randy."
[laughs]
Let me explain something to you.
I am the gatekeeper of this industry.
Anyone or anything that's any good,
they've got to go through me,
and as great as Riddle could be in that ring,
he's even better at flushing his own potential down the toilet.
[laughs maniacally] Don't believe me?
Don't believe me?
Ask Dana White.
[laughs maniacally]
Look, if Riddle's got even two working cells left
in that brain of his, he's going to come back, his exclusive interview,
and he's going to tell the world, "Bro. I'm hanging up the flipflops,"
And he's going to retire for good.
If he doesn't want to do that,
then I might just have to Cody Rhodes his ass out the door!
[laughs maniacally]
Anyway you slice it, my man,
if Riddle's got something to say next week,
then so does Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[laughs maniacally]
[Corey] That's scary from a man who speaks with his stomps.
[Alpha Academy's music plays]
[Jimmy] There's one half of the Alpha Academy,
of course, followed by the other.
[Saxton] The Tree Trunk.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by Otis,
representing Alpha Academy,
Chad Gable!
[Corey] The collective IQ of the city of Cleveland just raised
about a half of a percentage point
with the arrival of "The Master" Chad Gable.
And look at the powerhouse beside him.
Shoosh.
[Jimmy] Chad Gable bringing confidence into the ring tonight.
He's going to need it.
It's a collision of veterans on Monday Night Raw.
Chad Gable takes on Dolph Ziggler one-on-one.
You say one-on-one, but Chad Gable
always with the Tree Trunk behind him.
It is Chad Gable, Dolph Ziggler on Raw next.
-[Saxton] Hey, Jimmy, shoosh! -[Jimmy] That's not nice.
[Jimmy] They're together. You see the "Tree Trunk" Otis
and Chad Gable, but tonight,
-it is one-on-one. -Shoosh, please.
[Jimmy] Chad Gable and Dolph Ziggler
[Corey] I would hope it's one-on-one.
[Jimmy] It's supposed to be.
[Dolph Ziggler's music plays]
[crowd cheering]
[announcer] And his opponent, residing in Hollywood, Florida,
weighing 218 pounds,
Dolph Ziggler!
[crowd cheering]
[Jimmy] Well, experience WrestleMania like never before
with a Priority Pass powered by On Location.
Enjoy unparalleled access to the biggest show of the year,
with premium experiences,
preshow hospitality, hotel accommodations and more.
Wrestlemania packages are available now.
Visit onlocationexp.com/WWE.
[Saxton] Dolph Ziggler may reside in Hollywood, Florida,
but tonight, it's a homecoming
for the showoff here in Cleveland.
[Corey] Let's be honest, this city constantly longs
for those that they've lost, including Dolph Ziggler,
LeBron James, the list goes on and on.
Saxton, it's like you. You had one girlfriend in ninth grade.
You've been single since.
You should move to Cleveland.
Check out four-point Otis.
[Jimmy] If you know wrestling, you know St. Edward's High School.
That's where Dolph Ziggler went.
Also went to Kent State,
set a record for most wins
-in program history. -[bell rings]
[Saxton] And Chad Gable actually had some disparaging remarks
during the commercial break.
He actually said Dolph Ziggler's best days are behind him.
[Corey] They're starting out that low wrestling stance.
[Jimmy] Chad Gable, Minnesota state champion,
as well as a Greco-Roman Olympian.
[Saxton] Both these men involved in a triple-threat match…
[Jimmy] To the cover!
[Saxton] …last week that was won by Ciampa.
You got to think long-term whoever wins this match
could be in the conversation for an opportunity
at the United States Championship.
[Corey] Both gentlemen's transitioning very, very well.
Back to the feet they go.
They want to see who the superior take-down artist is here in Ohio.
[Saxton] Getting a little chippy
between Ziggler and Gable.
[Corey] I like it.
[Jimmy] Shooting right in for the high crotch,
transition after transition, not even--
-[Corey] Whoa! Shoulders down! -[Saxton] Gable on his back!
[laughs] That quick.
You think about as much as Dolph Ziggler has accomplished
here in WWE,
part of that is just how versatile Ziggler is,
how many different ways he can attack you,
how many different ways he can approach a match.
[Corey] Expert obviously is to take down obviously the defense, great riding.
-[Saxton] Uh-oh, cradle. -[Corey] The cradle.
Has Chad on his back. Kick out.
Not easy to put an Olympian on his back.
[Jimmy] Both of these athletes so incredibly dangerous.
Can take you down, stretch you in the blink of an eye
before you know what even hits you.
[Saxton] Gable now.
[Jimmy] Beautiful Iranian. Oh, look at that.
-Sunset flip! -[referee] One, two--
[Jimmy] Putting Gable on his back.
[Corey] Neat transition back and forth.
-One, two-- -[Ziggler grunting]
[Jimmy] Oh, look at the strength of the bridge on Dolph Ziggler.
[Saxton] Ziggler continuing to maneuver here as Gable…
[Jimmy] Oh, oh, maybe a backslide attempt here.
Who's going to get the advantage, though?
Who has the power in this position? That's the question.
It's hard to out-muscle Chad Gable.
[Saxton] You would think, based on the positioning,
Ziggler would have it, but look out.
[grunts]
[Jimmy] Into the turnbuckle. Oh, my!
-[Corey chuckling] Oh, baby. -[Jimmy] Wow!
-[Corey] American Automatic. -Shoosh!
[Jimmy] Chad Gable "The Master" flexing on him.
Look at this.
Raw power, dumping Ziggler high on his shoulders
in the back of his neck
and it completely turned the tides of this matchup
into the favor of Chad Gable.
[Saxton] Both these superstars so similar in their approach,
but the power advantage has to be with Chad Gable.
We're seeing that now.
[Jimmy] No question, but you're also seeing an uptick in the aggression now,
particularly displayed by Chad Gable.
[Corey] Look at the size, the girth of Otis.
[Jimmy] Oh, wow. Wicked!
Wicked dragon screw.
[Corey] That could have done some serious damage to the knee of Ziggler.
And Gable now dismantling The Showoff.
[Saxton] This is what makes Chad Gable so dangerous.
He can target a body part and just pick you apart
from that point on.
[Corey] Went after the left knee of Dolph Ziggler.
[Jimmy] Dolph Ziggler, of course, a triple crown champion in the WWE.
He has held the Intercontinental Championship six times.
What a victory this would be for Chad Gable. To the cover.
One, two--
-No! -[Otis] No.
[Jimmy] Right before three, the kick out from Dolph Ziggler.
[Saxton] Dolph Ziggler's been Intercontinental Champion,
United States Champion, World Heavyweight Champion,
multiple-time Tag Team Champion.
There's not much Ziggler has not accomplished,
and Gable hopes to match his accolades.
This might be the start.
From the top.
[Jimmy] Moonsault, but nobody home.
-[Saxton] Ziggler recovers. -Oh!
Spiking DDT!
[Corey] Man, the height he got on that jump.
Now, shoulders down.
One, two--
[Jimmy] Couldn't get a full cover, though.
Didn't quite have the energy.
[Saxton] Take another look again at the impact here from the DDT.
To your point, Jimmy, Dolph not able to secure the kind of cover
he would've ideally had.
Incredible commitment, though, on the DDT from Dolph Ziggler
in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio.
Beautiful switch right into the roll.
Oh, ankle lock.
[Jimmy] Cinched in in the middle of the ring.
[Saxton] Look at Ziggler there,
targeted shots at the left knee of Chad Gable.
[Jimmy] Great chop from Chad Gable.
Rolling with it, keeping pressure on the ankle.
[Saxton] Credit to Gable for continuing to hold on.
Now, finally, Ziggler able to escape the predicament.
[Corey] Kick to the knee by Dolph.
-Famouser incoming. -[Jimmy] Oh!
Ankle lock right back in.
We talk about the IQ of Chad Gable.
He saw that Famouser coming.
Beautiful counter. He's done his homework.
[Corey] No doubt about it.
Chad Gable works tirelessly to improve every single week,
and Dolph Ziggler's one of the best to do it.
-[screaming] -[Saxton] The pain etched on the face
of Ziggler, who's trying to inch closer to breaking the hold.
Gable brings him right back to the center of the ring.
[Jimmy] Chad Gable, NXT, Raw, and SmackDown Tag Team Champion
looking for singles glory tonight
at the expense of Dolph Ziggler.
[Saxton] Ziggler able to use that one good leg to break free,
but the damage to the ankle inhibiting
Ziggler's ability to deliver the superkick.
[Corey] Straight into the powerbomb!
[Jimmy] Oh, whoa. Man, that was close.
Barely getting the shoulder up in time,
but right back into the ankle lock, cranking on the ankle and the knee.
[groaning and screaming in pain]
[Jimmy] We got to see a tap soon from Dolph Ziggler.
Hometown pride, but the knee only bends so far.
[Saxton] I admire the desire and heart of Ziggler,
but you got to about your long-term health here.
[Jimmy] Beautiful roll through and landing on his back. Oh!
[Saxton] Ziggler again looking for the superkick.
[grunting]
-From behind. This time! -[Jimmy] Finally gets him
right to the chin.
One, two, three!
-Dolph Ziggler victorious! -[bell rings]
[Dolph Ziggler's music plays]
[announcer] Here is your winner, Dolph Ziggler!
[Corey] Oh, no, no, no.
Smart move by Ziggler
avoiding certain disaster at the hands of Otis.
What a performance by The Showoff,
able to endure a significant amount of pain and punishment from Chad Gable
on essentially one good leg,
but that's all Dolph would ultimately need,
sniping Gable with a razor-sharp superkick.
[Jimmy] Making most of the one-on-one opportunity.
Speaking of opportunities, nothing gives you opportunity
like the tournament, that's right, and it continues.
Women's Tag Team Championship Tournament,
Alexa Bliss and Asuka taking on Nikki A.S.H. and Doudrop.
The first round continues
next week on Monday Night Raw.
[crowd cheering]
Next week on Raw, there will be no more almosts.
We will be one step closer
to the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.
And we get to crush the hopes and dreams of Alexa Bliss and Asuka
while we're at it.
[laughs maniacally]
Nikki, Doudrop,
you've got it all wrong.
You're not going to crush our dreams.
You're going to help manifest them, because…
Do you want to take this one?
No one is ready for Alexa Bliss
and no one is ready for Asuka! Women--
More like no one cares.
Alexa, where is Lilly?
Or is Asuka your new toy?
-Oh! -[laughs]
Go play with her or like Lilly--
[Saxton] What the heck?
[crowd cheering]
[Jimmy] Well, next up, "The Phenomenal" AJ Style
takes on The Miz in a no disqualification match, next.
Oh, we cannot wait. WrestleMania is going Hollywood.
Tickets for the greatest spectacle in sports entertainment
are available this Friday at ticketmaster.com.
Mark your calendar, April 1st and 2nd, 2023.
Get your tickets at Ticketmaster this Friday.
[Saxton] There's something else I can't wait for, it's Raw Talk
following Monday Night Raw on the WWE on Peacock,
where we'll hear from the two women
who advanced in the Women's Tag Team Title Tournament,
Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky.
We'll also want to hear from "The Nigerian Giant" Omos,
and a man who I'm sure will have a lot to say about the Mysterios
and the Judgment Day, "The Rated-R Superstar" Edge.
[Jimmy] Monday Night Raw has come from Cleveland.
They have been rocking all night long,
but Monday Night Raw is brought to you
by the Sonic Big Dill Cheeseburger for a limited time.
Only at Sonic.
[AJ Styles' music plays]
[Jimmy] Cleveland is about to get phenomenal.
[Saxton] I don't know if that's possible, Jimmy.
[Jimmy] I think it is.
[Corey] You don't get paid to think, lucky for us.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following is a no disqualification match!
Introducing first, from Gainesville, Georgia,
weighing 218 pounds,
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles.
[Corey] We may be hanging out,
spending the evening in the mistake by the lake,
but this man, this individual, this superstar is phenomenal
365 nights a year no matter where on earth
Styles may find himself.
[Saxton] We know about his technique. We know about his ability,
but the edge, I'm sorry, that gets brought out in him by The Miz
is absolutely unbelievable.
[Jimmy] We saw that edge on display earlier on tonight.
AJ Styles is fired up, and I'll tell you,
this no disqualification match is the perfect scenario for AJ Styles
to unleash all the aggression that he so pleases.
[Saxton] Tonight, AJ Styles will not be beholden to any rules.
No disqualification, limited only by the laws of physics.
This one is going to be awesome.
[Jimmy] He breaks those on a weekly basis.
[Saxton] No doubt about it.
[music ends]
[The Miz's music plays]
[announcer] And his opponent, residing in Hollywood, California,
weighing 221 pounds,
The Miz!
[Jimmy] It is the age-old question,
what do you do in a no-disqualification match
against a guy who lives to break the rules in every match?
[Saxton] Like a perfect scenario for Styles, even more so for the Miz.
[Jimmy] Next Monday, Washington, D.C., get ready.
Your tickets available on Ticketmaster.
We'll see you there at Monday Night Raw.
[Saxton] What kind of condition will both these men be in
-come next week at our nation's capital? -[Corey] Oh, worry not,
our reality superstar and his empire will be just fine.
-[Saxton] Oh, look at that shirt. -[Corey] Miz may have been born here
in Cleveland, but judging by his ring gear,
his heart's right down the turnpike in the Steel City
where the football team actually doesn't suck.
[Saxton] Won't argue with you there. Ha.
[Jimmy] We're talking about sports, Saxton.
[Saxton] Oh, Christ.
[bell rings]
[Jimmy] Here we go.
No disqualification.
AJ Styles and The Miz.
Immediately going to the ground and pound.
Relentless AJ Styles right into our table.
[Corey] This is going to get ugly in a hurry.
[Saxton] Honestly, you got to blame The Miz for this.
It was The Miz who tried to interfere earlier on tonight
in the Ciampa-Lashley match.
AJ Styles wanted to fend him off and now we have the match.
-[Corey] Miz was trying to… -[Saxton] Cheat
-[Corey] …assist his pupil. -[Jimmy] Oh!
[Corey] He was trying to help Ciampa advance in his career.
[Jimmy] Oh, The Miz also showing his willingness
to use every part of the ring and everything outside
-to go after AJ Styles. -[crowd boos]
[Corey] There is not a rule that Miz isn't willing to break,
which in an environment such as this makes Miz the odds-on favorite.
-[crowd chanting] Tiny balls! Tiny balls! -[Jimmy laughing]
Crowd here in Cleveland
letting Miz know what they think of his manhood but--
[Corey] Haven't these fools ever seen Major League II?
Don't you know that's only going to incite The Miz
to do great things like hit a home run?
-[Saxton] This isn't baseball, Corey. -[Corey] You know what I mean.
[Saxton] Styles now looking for his weapon of choice.
Insert Mr. Kendo Stick.
Or not.
Not good enough.
[Jimmy] Steel chair, maybe.
-[Saxton] No. -[Jimmy] All right. Option three.
-[Saxton laughs] -[Jimmy] Oh, yes!
[Saxton] Oh, let's up the ante.
-[commentators exclaim] -[Corey] Oh, eyes off the ball.
Can't take that long when you're dealing with The A-Lister.
Both Grand Slam Champions here in WWE.
Miz now looking to bring the fight to the Phenomenal One.
[Saxton] Opting not to utilize the table, surprisingly.
[Jimmy] So much of their rivalry over the past couple of months
has been around one another.
The assaults of Ciampa on AJ Styles,
AJ Styles, perhaps, training Logan Paul
for his SummerSlam showdown with the Miz.
[Saxton] The Miz blamed his loss to Logan Paul on AJ Styles.
[Jimmy] What Styles did was reminiscent of AJ Styles.
[Saxton] Have another look here.
Miz wiping out AJ Styles on the outside and now…
-Oh, whoa. -[Corey] See, I told you
he was going to hit a home run, you fool.
[Saxton] He didn't hit anything.
-[Corey] You have no-- -[Jimmy] Oh, the aim of AJ Styles.
Beautiful shot to the face of The Miz.
AJ Styles for so long has wanted The Miz one-on-one.
No disqualification, no count out, no rules.
[Saxton] AJ Styles now draping The Miz
over our announce desk,
joining him up top.
You can use Saxton as a weapon.
He's right here. He's already kind of a tool.
[Saxton] Uh-oh, this could end The Miz.
[chuckling] Oh, brilliant.
-[crowd exclaims] -[Jimmy] Over the barricade
goes AJ Styles!
[Corey] That, my friends, was must-see.
[Saxton] No disqualification, one-on-one, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles
-versus The Miz. -[Jimmy] Oh, yeah, here we go.
[Saxton] Out come the tables.
[Jimmy] The table is back, courtesy of AJ Styles.
[Saxton] Didn't appreciate being sent over the barricade before the break.
[crowd chanting] Table. Table. Table.
[Jimmy] The crowd in Cleveland getting exactly what they want.
[Saxton] AJ Styles has grown so tired of The Miz,
The Miz's disparaging remarks.
-The attacks from Ciampa-- -[commentators exclaim]
[Corey] That one's cleared center field.
[Jimmy] Kendo stick right through the guts
-of AJ Styles. -[Corey] Miz is like Jake Taylor
when it counts.
-Oh… [laughs] -[AJ Styles groaning]
[Corey] Look at this.
We talked about the willingness of The Miz
to go anywhere, do anything.
We're seeing that on display right now.
No mercy.
[Jimmy] It is all perfectly legal.
[Corey] You could say that Miz has license to be a real wild thing tonight
-here in Cleveland. -[Saxton] Oh, my gosh.
-[groaning] -[Jimmy] Earlier tonight,
the United States Championship on the line,
Ciampa and Bobby Lashley, the Miz interfered.
AJ Styles not taking that lightly, going after The Miz.
-Pele Kick over the top. -[Saxton] Oh!
This is a critical opening now for AJ Styles.
Needs to summon that will to get back to his feet.
The Miz right now reeling on that canvas.
[crowd chanting] Table, table, table, table.
[Saxton] Styles might be eyeing that kendo stick.
[Corey] So is Miz.
[Jimmy] Got to get to it first.
[Corey] We have a scramble on our hands.
[Jimmy chuckling] It's AJ Styles.
[Saxton] Time for a little payback.
[Corey] Guys, I think AJ should demonstrate a little understanding.
[Saxton] I don't think so. That's not needed.
Let out all your aggression, AJ.
[Jimmy] We've got understanding of where his target is.
[Saxton] The back, the ribs.
-Everything is fair game. Oh! -[Corey] Oh, no.
-[Saxton] Get them, get them. -[Corey] Everything?
[Saxton] Even though they're tiny.
[laughs]
-White Russian Leg Sweep. -[Jimmy] To the corner.
[crowd] …two--
[Jimmy] Near fall from AJ Styles.
The Miz just trying to recover.
Can you imagine how hard it's going to be to sit
for the next several days, if you're Miz?
He already has to sit a certain way.
[Saxton] Miz should learn to squat.
[Corey] You are the weirdest human I've ever met.
Oh! And Miz turns the tables.
-Here it comes. -[Jimmy] Oh, counter by Styles.
Shoulders down.
Kick out from The Miz.
Great counter to the Skull-Crushing Finale attempt.
Styles lands on his feet on the apron,
-and Styles with the perfect positioning. -[crowd cheering]
Would it be locked and loaded?
[Saxton] Phenomenal Forearm!
[Jimmy] Right to the chin!
-[Saxton] Good night, Miz. -[crowd] One, two--
-[Saxton] Ciampa? -[Jimmy] Ciampa just pulled the referee
-out of the ring. -[Corey] It is totally legal.
No disqualification.
This is how you rally to turn around your night.
[Jimmy] Oh, Ciampa still hurt from his match with Bobby Lashley.
AJ Styles taking advantage.
[Saxton] AJ Styles now forced to contend not just with The Miz
but Ciampa as well.
[Jimmy] A handicap match now, two on one.
[Saxton] Maybe rid himself of Ciampa.
Styles thinking about the Styles Clash…
or something more?
[Corey] Oh, no, no, no!
Ciampa saving himself from disastrous results.
[Saxton] Now what is-- Oh, Ciampa.
Ciampa trying to send Styles through that table.
[Jimmy] Looking for the suplex over the top rope onto the table.
Hard shot rocks Ciampa, Ciampa's barely holding on.
Beautiful shot sends Ciampa right through the table!
-[Saxton] Now Styles-- -[Jimmy] Styles has got to turn around--
Focus on The Miz.
-Roll-up, shoulders down. -[crowd] One, two--
[Corey] Big right rocks The A-Lister.
[Jimmy] AJ Styles showing all kinds of guts right now.
[Saxton] Hit the reset button, try it one more time.
Looking for the Phenomenal Forearm, can Styles hit it?
[commentators exclaim]
[Corey] Intercepted by the chair.
Skull-Crushing Finale, that's it.
-One, two-- -[commentators exclaim]
[Corey] How?
[Jimmy] Unreal!
[Corey] How the hell did AJ Styles survive this?
[Jimmy] I have no clue.
First a steel chair by The Miz,
followed by the Skull-Crushing Finale.
I'm with you, I thought for sure this match was over.
-[crowd] One, two-- -[Jimmy] AJ Styles probably not knowing
where he is right now,
just had enough wherewithal to kick out.
Pure gut, pure instinct from the Phenomenal One.
[crowd chanting] This is awesome!
[Jimmy] Miz once again kendo stick in hand.
[Saxton] Trying to beat out what's left of the desire from AJ Styles.
The sadism from The Miz,
chopping away at the joints of AJ Styles.
[Corey] Smart move taking away the wheels of AJ Styles.
Here we go, time to go to school!
[Saxton] Right into the steel chair.
And Styles now…
looking for the Styles Clash!
[Jimmy] Face down goes The Miz.
[Saxton] Onto his back. One, two, three!
-What a win… -[bell rings]
-…for "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles. -[AJ Styles' music plays]
[announcer] Here is your winner, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles.
[Corey] What a battle between these two rivals.
"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles proves a little too much
for The A-Lister to handle tonight.
[Jimmy] He wanted The Miz one-on-one.
He wanted a no rules, no disqualifications.
[Jimmy] It was two-on-one for a while with Ciampa
and yet he's victorious.
[Saxton] I remember when we started the night, we didn't even expect
this match to happen.
[Jimmy] Think of how gratifying this moment is.
[Saxton] To your point, overcoming the interference of Ciampa
and pinning the shoulders of The Miz.
It took tables, it took chairs,
it took kendo sticks.
It took unbelievable fortitude from AJ Styles.
Battered and bruised is Styles,
but he has earned the right to enjoy this victory.
[AJ Styles' music continues]
-[Corey] What the hell? -[Saxton] What?
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] That was…
That was… Dexter.
-[Saxton] Dexter Lumis? -[Jimmy] Yes, looks like him.
[Corey] Let's take a look at this, how everything crumbled down
at the end, in the A-List universe.
First, Ciampa sent unceremoniously through the table at ringside.
Miz with a face full of steel,
this would open the door for the Phenomenal One to slam it shut.
Boom, Styles Clash.
Spoiling the evening for The Miz.
[Saxton] A hard-fought victory earned by the Phenomenal One.
The crowd here in Cleveland absolutely loving it.
But next week, the Women's Tag Team Championship Tournament continues.
Alexa Bliss and Asuka versus Nikki A.S.H. and Doudrop.
Also, Riddle makes his return to Monday Night Raw
after a SummerSlam that saw him injured yet again.
[Corey] We are bringing the heat to the nation's capital,
one week from tonight.
[Saxton] It has been a red-hot night here in Cleveland.
[Corey] No, Byron, not red-hot,
tonight has been Phenomenal.
[AJ Styles' music continues] t,