[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.
♪ Let's go ♪
♪ I got a vision I see in my head ♪
♪ A melody buried deep into my soul ♪
♪ They call us crazy We cuttin' the edge ♪
♪ Decided our stories are gonna be told ♪
♪ Break the rules, break the laws ♪
♪ This is the moment we change it all ♪
♪ Yeah, greatness ♪
♪ Yeah, it feels like greatness ♪
♪ Legendary in the makin' ♪
♪ Reach out and we take it ♪
♪ 'Bout to emerge, we on the verge ♪
♪ And it feels like greatness ♪
♪ Yeah, greatness ♪
♪ Yeah, it feels like greatness ♪
[fireworks popping]
♪ 'Bout to emerge, we on the verge ♪
♪ Yeah, it feels like greatness… ♪
[Kevin Patrick] You're looking live at the Electric Heritage Bank Center
in Cincinnati, Ohio, and with less than two weeks until the Royal Rumble,
which kickstarts the Road to WrestleMania.
We've got a high-stakes epic journey ahead
on Monday Night Raw.
And tonight, a blockbuster main event.
A six-way elimination match
between six former United States Champions.
The prize, an opportunity to take on Austin Theory
for his United States Title next week
at the 30th anniversary of Monday Night Raw.
["Down With That" playing]
[Corey] Well, we are kicking things off with The Ones.
♪ Yah-hoo ♪
♪ Down since ♪
♪ Day one ish, damn ♪
♪ Down since ♪
♪ Day one ish, we been down since ♪
♪ Day one ish, damn ♪
♪ Line 'em all up Knock 'em down like this ♪
♪ Oh, yeah, yeah ♪
[Rome] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
Solo Sikoa and the Undisputed
WWE Tag Team Champions,
Jimmy and Jey,
The Usos!
[Corey] The intensity tonight in the eyes of Jimmy and Jey
on a whole 'nother level.
As for Solo Sikoa,
he only has one speed
and that's brutality.
[Kevin Patrick] The bullish nature, the extra swagger
from The Usos and Solo Sikoa.
Why? Let's revisit Friday Night SmackDown.
Sami Zayn sent by Roman Reigns to end the KO problem.
It looked to be going Sami's way.
Sami Zayn eyeing his former friend,
getting set to end Kevin Owens, and all of a sudden,
The Usos, who were not there all night.
Sami figured they went out there to help him.
1D.
Sami confused.
-[Corey] And Owens would be decimated. -[Jimmy Uso] This is for you.
[Sami] Hey, I'm doing my job. Hey.
[Jey] We're The Bloodline.
Tribal Chief sent me to take care of business.
[Kevin Patrick] Splash all over Kevin Owens
through the announce desk.
Decimating Kevin Owens.
One week from Saturday, KO takes on Roman Reigns
for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.
As for Sami Zayn, many questions remain
about how he's feeling after what played out.
[Corey] There are no accidents in The Bloodline.
[Jey] Cincinnati, Ohio.
[crowd cheering]
The Bloodline is now in your city.
[crowd booing]
[Jimmy Uso] You see it.
You see what The Ones are doing every single week.
We running SmackDown
and we running Monday Night Raw
every single week.
But you know what?
Before Solo puts a beating on Ali tonight,
we need to address what happened on Friday.
Yeah, KO.
Hope you got the message, though.
You can't cross The Tribal Chief and get away with it.
And at Royal Rumble,
you're going to learn one last, hard lesson from Roman Reigns.
Speaking of The Tribal Chief,
we got something real, really big planned at Raw 30.
Huge plans.
Every generation of The Bloodline
will be joining us
in an acknowledgment ceremony
for your Tribal Chief,
Roman Reigns.
And…
we about to defend these Raw Tag Team Championships
against The Judgment Day,
and we're going to beat The Judgment Day.
[Jimmy Uso] Yes, sir.
Because they the twos…
[both] And We The Ones.
[Corey] KP, I, for one, cannot wait for The Bloodline acknowledgment ceremony.
It's going to be huge, but so could this.
["The Other Side" playing]
[loud explosion]
Yeah, no, stop it right there.
Because the only thing that The Bloodline needs to acknowledge
is that The Judgment Day runs Monday Night Raw.
That's right, Rhea. Not only do we run this show,
but last week, we ran the gauntlet,
we run through the entire Raw Tag Team Division,
and now we're running straight for you, Bloodline.
Yeet.
[crowd booing]
But, you know, I'd like to take this moment
to thank…
the ex-con Dom…
for stepping up,
for filling in for his fallen brother
and helping The Judgment Day become
the number-one contenders
for the Raw Tag Team Cha-- [groans] Otis.
Whoa, whoa. Easy, easy, Finn.
You got a big main event tonight.
We need you at a hundo handling business,
just like Dom and I are going to handle business with Alpha.
Now, next week…
those nice, red Raw Tag Team titles
are coming permanently back to Monday nights.
Yo, can I ask you guys a question?
-Can I ask you a question? -Go for it, Priest.
You know how they always say they run Monday Night Raw,
they come out here and they take out everybody, right?
Have you ever seen them step to the--
Not once.
Never seen you step to The Judgment Day.
That's odd. Not even a knock on the door.
Why is that?
You know why?
[Dominik sniffing]
I think I know why. [sniffing]
-Tell them. -You--
You smell that, Mami?
I smell it, Dom-Dom.
I smell fear…
because they're scared.
[splutters] You scared, Jimmy, huh?
Jey, you scared?
Scared?
Scared of who?
Scared of you, little machismo,
little… [speaking Spanish]
[in English] Hey, Uce.
You better check the track record around here.
Hey, this right here is 546 days.
Every tag team that stepped up, we sat 'em down.
Sure did.
-The New Day. -Lockdown.
-RK-Bro. -Lockdown.
-Street Profits. -Lockdown.
-O.C. -Lockdown.
-Brawling Brutes. -Lockdown.
-Los Lotharios. -Lockdown.
Hey, hey, hey, we started this historic tag-team run
beating you and your daddy,
Dom and Rey Mysterio.
Lockdown.
And now, Raw 30,
The Judgment Day,
welcome…
[both] To the Uso Penitentiary.
[mic thuds]
It's funny. I hear you guys talking, but the reality is
you wouldn't last a minute
in the cell with the prisoners that I was in with.
Hey, hey, you want to know something?
You want to know something else?
In the pen, you know what we call an Uso?
We call them a wannabe ese.
And the biggest wannabe
is that street champion back there,
just standing around, doing nothing.
[crowd exclaiming]
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Dominik just blasted Solo.
[Kevin Patrick] It's kicking off now.
[Corey] Poor Dom is having flashbacks to the yard.
You find the biggest guy, you hit him in the mouth,
but it seems like it backfired.
[Kevin Patrick] Stepping up to The Enforcer, Solo Sikoa.
[Corey] Oh, no. Don't do it, Rhea.
[Kevin Patrick] Don't do it Solo, perhaps.
Uh-oh.
-[Corey] Ali. -[Kevin Patrick] What? It's Mustafa Ali.
[Corey] Ali versus Solo is next.
[Kevin Patrick] You're watching Monday Night Raw from Cincinnati, Ohio.
A match between Mustafa Ali and Solo Sikoa of The Bloodline
has just commenced moments ago.
Mustafa Ali as brave as they come.
He wants redemption.
He wants payback against Solo Sikoa
for a beatdown that he received by The Bloodline weeks ago.
[Corey] Big Samoan drop by Sikoa,
and Ali in all types of trouble.
It's a smart move by Mustafa Ali,
attempting to gain the upper hand by executing a sneak attack
before the opening bell.
Managed to take Solo down, but not for long.
Just thunderous impact by The Street Champ.
[Kevin Patrick] The Street Champ may have been angered
by what was said by Dominik Mysterio, calling him out.
[Corey] Listen, I don't know the man well,
but Solo seems to be perpetually angry.
But right now, things beginning to look bleak for Ali.
The Street Champ backing it up.
Solo has acquired the target.
Here he comes.
Good night.
[Kevin Patrick] Devastating impact from Solo Sikoa.
Earlier on, our Byron Saxton caught up with Mustafa Ali
on his reasons for this match.
Any comment tonight on your match against Solo Sikoa?
Yeah, a few weeks ago, The Bloodline came in here
and they dropped everybody, right?
And everybody got a chance to fight back,
everybody except me.
So, tonight, I'm changing that.
Tonight, I'm taking on Solo.
Tonight, I'm getting payback,
and more importantly, tonight, I'm fighting back.
[Corey] This is one those instances where gutsy is probably
the best euphemism for insanity.
Sometimes, you just need to learn to leave well enough alone.
Ali was able to escape
the wrath of The Bloodline for the past several weeks,
and now he jumps head-first into the lion's den
with The Street Champ.
Not a bright decision.
[Kevin Patrick] He has the heart of a lion,
but you may have a point, Corey.
Solo Sikoa unbeaten in one-on-one action.
Look at that from Mustafa Ali.
[Corey] We learned from his tenure in WWE,
there is nothing even resembling quit inside of Mustafa Ali.
The self-proclaim disruptor
won't back down from anyone, including Solo,
who's sent to the outside by a savate kick.
[Kevin Patrick] Ali now, the look of optimism in his eyes,
at pace.
[commentators exclaim]
[Corey] Big right by Sikoa, just rocked Ali's world.
-[Kevin Patrick] Big clothesline as well. -[Corey] Oh, man.
This is just a technicality at this point.
[Kevin Patrick] Mustafa Ali is lifeless right now.
Solo Sikoa crawls across…
to seal this. Hook of the leg.
For the victory, and Ali, that never quit attitude.
[Corey] For a moment, it looks like Solo was insulted
by the fact Ali hasn't relented yet.
Especially after a spectacular clothesline that nearly ended this.
[Kevin Patrick] It is Royal Rumble season. Perhaps Mustafa Ali looking
to make a statement.
This what happens when you call me out. Huh?
Just like everybody that called me out.
[Mustafa groaning]
[Corey] Trust me, if Mustafa Ali has designs
on being a part of the Royal Rumble.
this was not a smart decision.
Because most people who have to battle Solo Sikoa
aren't 100% for weeks afterward.
And Ali's about to find out the hard way.
[Kevin Patrick] Here we go again. Oh, Mustafa Ali,
wise to it this time.
[Corey] Ali trying to utilize his athleticism, but caught.
-[Kevin Patrick] He is devastated. -[Corey] Oh, man. Forget it.
Maybe Ali should start thinking about Royal Rumble 2024.
Look at this impact.
A sickening thud.
That was Mustafa Ali's spine colliding with the ring post
courtesy of The Street Champ,
and here come The Ones.
[Kevin Patrick] Speaking of ruthless and remorseless,
the backup has arrived.
[Corey] Roll him up.
["Fight" playing]
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, ho, ho, ho.
[Corey] Backup, you say?
Well, there is no way in hell Kevin Owens is anywhere near 100%,
but KO is making his way to the ring.
[Kevin Patrick] That's never stopped Kevin Owens before.
As he goes blow-for-blow with The Usos.
At the end of Friday Night SmackDown, he was laying lifeless.
[Corey] The wounds from Friday Night SmackDown
have yet to even scab over for Owens.
Looking for vengeance tonight on Raw.
Jimmy Uso propelled into the steel ring stairs.
It is chaos on the outside.
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh! -[Corey] Ali!
-[Kevin Patrick] Back inside the ring. -[Corey] Tornado DDT.
[Kevin Patrick] Solo Sikoa distracted. Ali to beat him, Ali to beat him.
A kick-out by Solo.
[Corey] My goodness.
We were half a second away
from one of the biggest upsets in recent memory.
[Kevin Patrick] Well, he still believes it can happen.
Mustafa Ali takes a climb.
[Corey] Ali from the top rope.
450, nobody home.
[Kevin Patrick] Read by Solo Sikoa. Oh, no.
[Corey] Spike.
[Kevin Patrick] Samoan Spike, and Solo Sikoa puts away Mustafa Ali.
[bell ringing]
[Corey] Wait! Look out, Solo.
Stunner.
[Kevin Patrick] Kevin Owens continues to make a statement.
[Corey] Kevin Owens tonight fueled by vengeance.
Trying to take Solo Sikoa out of The Bloodline's equation.
Solo's skull ricocheting off our announce table,
and Kevin Owens just raining down right hands.
[Kevin Patrick] Is he going to do to Solo what Solo did to him
-on SmackDown? -[Corey] Oh, my goodness.
[Kevin Patrick] Hang on a second.
[Corey] Jimmy and Jey thwarting KO's plans for the moment.
[Kevin Patrick] But KO's able to deal with both of them right now.
Blows to the head of Jey Uso.
Jimmy back involved.
[Corey] It's two-on-one, and Kevin Owens is standing his ground.
Steel chair off the face of Jimmy Uso.
[Kevin Patrick] WWE security trying to hold KO back.
[Corey] We've got officials out here.
[Kevin Patrick] He is a man possessed right now.
[Corey] I hope Roman Reigns is paying close attention.
Maybe The Bloodline's KO problem is bigger and badder than ever before.
[Corey] There is cause for concern
on The Island of Relevancy tonight.
Owens is a madman.
[Kevin Patrick] How do you stop Kevin Owens?
[Corey] I don't know if you can.
[crowd chanting] Let them fight! Let them fight! Let them fight!
I'm going to kick your ass.
[Kevin Patrick] The Bloodline retreat as KO stands tall.
One week from Saturday,
Kevin Owens collides with Roman Reigns
for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship.
And, man, is KO fired up for that.
[crowd cheering]
Let's go backstage now.
We're going to check in with The All Mighty.
Speaking of ferocious,
Bobby Lashley, who'll be involved in our main event tonight.
Put as many former champions in the ring as you want tonight.
That doesn't change a damn thing.
There's only one All Mighty.
Make it elimination style,
that just means five Superstars tapping out to the Hurt Lock.
See, these aren't hoops
that you're making me jump through, Theory.
These are just extra victims.
Your title reign has an expiration date,
and that's Raw 30.
I'm coming for my United States Title.
And, Theory, this time, I'm going to put you away for good.
[Corey] Well, tonight, "The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley,
one of six Superstars
with their eyes on the richest prize on Monday Night Raw,
the United States Champion, Austin Theory.
Lashley will join five other Superstars,
with the winner challenging Theory next week on Raw 30.
That match, our main event tonight.
[Kevin Patrick] Monday Night Raw is thrilled to be in Cincinnati, Ohio,
tonight at the Heritage Bank Center on the banks of the Ohio River.
Those Bengals, they were celebrating and rocking this city last night.
Over the last couple of weeks, we've been treated to some astounding footage
of Cody Rhodes on his journey back to WWE. Here's the latest.
[melancholy music playing]
[Cody] No human being could have kept me from getting in the ring.
The reception was really somber
because you knew I needed to go get surgery.
[melancholy music continues]
The real meat of this is it has to heal.
[Cody] So I'm lying in a hospital bed,
and the questions start creeping in.
How long until I'm back?
Will I be as good as I was?
I know the work begins… now.
[Dr. Tovin] I saw Cody a few weeks after the pec repair,
and as much as he has
the sheer determination and desire to get back,
we also have to respect Mother Nature.
As boring as a three-pound dumbbell is,
it's my workout currently.
And although Cody is a ridiculously talented athlete,
he does not heal any faster than anybody else.
[Cody] We're at two months.
It feels like six years.
They're telling me nine months, and I'm trying to respect that.
And that involves patience.
Patience is not my strong suit.
We are at the Nightmare Factory.
[uplifting music playing]
This is the place where I can make myself bulletproof.
Cody has done the work,
and he looks and feels better than he ever has.
Well, now the question is no longer "if"…
But when?
[dramatic music playing]
Since I came back at WrestleMania,
I have made it crystal clear what I want.
At the Royal Rumble, I'm back.
[buzzer sounds]
[pensive music playing]
-[Corey] Wow, wow, wow. -[Kevin Patrick laughing]
You heard it here. Your ears did not deceive you.
The American Nightmare returns at the Royal Rumble.
KP, I cannot believe it.
I've got goose bumps on my goose bumps.
[Kevin Patrick] We are smiling ear to ear.
Cody Rhodes back at the Royal Rumble, that's huge news.
Mark my words.
Cody Rhodes is going to pick up exactly where he left off
before the injury.
I cannot wait to get to San Antonio.
Oh, man. One week from Saturday. "Cannot wait" is right.
He joins now nine other male Superstars
to declare for the Royal Rumble Match.
Let's head backstage and check in with our broadcast colleague,
Byron Saxton.
Thank you so much, guys.
I've been trying all day
to get a word with WWE official Adam Pearce's office.
There's been a revolving door of Superstars
all trying to make their case
for the Royal Rumble Match
and a chance to main-event WrestleMania.
And one of those Superstars is
Elias.
Elias, can you elaborate on your intentions
for the Royal Rumble Match?
Listen, Saxton, 2022 was a roller-coaster, okay?
I saw my brother's career explode, and then, fizzle out far too soon.
And then I came back and I--
I lost my best friend and I lost to The Bloodline. It's…
It's been a rough road to say the least,
but it's time to write some wrongs.
When I get into the Royal Rumble Match,
the vengeance tour begins.
[MVP] Thanks a lot, man. I appreciate it.
You better watch the suit, burnout.
As a matter of fact, Elias,
let me save you some trouble.
Call it a favor because I know things haven't been going so well for you lately.
But if you ever want those fingers to strum a guitar again,
do not go in there bothering Mr. Pearce
about the 2023 Royal Rumble,
because the winner is a done deal.
It's you?
What, are you kidding me?
I mean, you haven't been relevant in the ring
in years, let alone the Royal Rumble.
You keep talking like that
and I will get you a match with the 2023 Royal Rumble winner
here tonight.
Oh.
You want to walk with Elias?
Done. It's a done deal.
It'll be a great chance for me to showcase myself.
You know what is that in the music biz?
No. What?
A tune-up.
Okay, cool. No problem.
Easy money.
-I'll talk to Mr. Pearce now. -[Elias] Okay.
-[MVP] You got a minute? -[Pearce] Yes.
I'm just waiting. Come on.
[Kevin Patrick] "Easy money," says the always-busy MVP.
Now, two men MVP has done plenty of business with in the past.
Cedric Alexander and Shelton Benjamin,
feel like they're gaining a lot of momentum since reuniting.
But tonight, Triple Crown Champions The Street Profits want their smoke.
It's tag-team action
and it's coming your way next on Raw.
[Kevin Patrick] There's a reason
that WWE Hall of Famer JBL called Baron Corbin
a modern-day wrestling god.
6'8", former NFL offensive lineman and Golden Gloves champion.
He's got all the attributes to reclaim gold in WWE.
Now, with JBL by his side, watch out.
He knows what's at stake tonight in our main event.
Six-way elimination match.
Keep an eye on Baron Corbin.
[Corey] Would love to be United States Champion once again,
much like these gentlemen would love some tag-team gold.
["Bring the Swag" playing]
♪ I bring the swag like nobody can ♪
♪ Don't mean to brag What about it, yeah ♪
♪ I bring the swag like nobody can ♪
♪ It's in the bag Man, I got it, yeah ♪
♪ Eeny, meeny, miny, whoa ♪
♪ Turn up now, I'm 'bout to blow ♪
♪ Up and y'all don't even know ♪
♪ Powder keg about to explode ♪
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is a tag-team match
scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, at a combined weight of 492 lbs,
Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins,
The Street Profits!
[Corey] Kevin Patrick, you know damn well I am a fan of The Street Profits.
I'm a big fan of Angelo Dawkins.
We discuss it on the podcast, After the Bell, all the time.
But today, Dawkins has been downright insufferable.
Walking around here like he's Joe Burrow himself.
It's ridiculous.
Dawkins, you didn't win anything yet.
[Kevin Patrick] …last night put the Bengals over the Ravens,
and look at the swag on Angelo Dawkins
in his hometown of Cincinnati, Ohio…
-["Prime Time" playing] -…alongside Montez Ford.
In their way tonight,
Cedric Alexander and Shelton Benjamin.
[Rome] And their opponents, the team of Shelton Benjamin
and Cedric Alexander.
[Corey] Tag team, once upon a time, held the Raw Tag Team Titles.
It's been a while since they've competed regularly together,
but based off of last week,
I think Benjamin and Alexander certainly have a strong foundation
to perhaps reclaim great accomplishments in the Tag Team Division.
[Kevin Patrick] A great point you make, Corey. They took to Raw top
after last week's Monday Night Raw.
They were full of enthusiasm for the road ahead
and being back together as a unit, Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander.
-Former Tag Team Champions. -[bell ringing]
The bell rings.
Angelo Dawkins and Shelton Benjamin will start us off.
[Corey] Oh, my goodness.
Benjamin out of the gate just rocked Tez's jaw.
Smart strategy by the veteran, Benjamin.
Go behind.
[Kevin Patrick] Big elbow there from Dawkins.
You have to think that both these tag teams
will have their eyes on getting back to the very top,
but look at the strength of Benjamin.
[Corey] Spectacular German suplex.
[Kevin Patrick] Hook of the leg, for the victory--
-Kick-out by Dawkins. -[Corey] I know where you're going.
The Tag Team Division on Monday Night Raw, red hot.
The Judgment Day have earned the right to be the next challengers
for The Usos' Raw Tag Team Championships,
but the division is essentially wide open.
Every match is an opportunity to impress officials
and move your way up the ladder.
[Kevin Patrick] Angelo Dawkins still inside the ring.
Oh, man.
Hellacious right. Tag made for Montez Ford.
[Corey] Kick between the eyes of Cedric Alexander.
From the top, Montez Ford.
[Kevin Patrick] Quite the impact all over Cedric Alexander.
The athletic Montez Ford.
[thuds and grunts]
[yelling]
[Corey] The intensity etched on the face of Montez Ford.
Things not looking too bright for Cedric right this moment.
[Kevin Patrick] Flying Alexander to the outside.
swing and a miss from Montez.
[men grunting]
[Corey] Montez hanging on for dear life.
This will not end well.
[Kevin Patrick] Perilous spot for both Superstars.
Ooh. We talk about it all the time, Corey,
the physique of Montez Ford.
So impressive, but so is Cedric Alexander.
[Corey] Cedric Alexander is not impressed.
Fantastic takedown on the apron.
Take another look at this.
Tremendous quickness shown by Cedric Alexander.
Montez Ford is down.
Oh, we got company.
[Kevin Patrick] What's the meaning? Why exactly is MVP here?
[Corey] Relax, KP, it's just business.
[Kevin Patrick] Back-to-back WWE on USA, Monday and Tuesday nights,
but we're watching tag-team action here,
The Street Profits
against Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander.
[Corey] Alexander and Benjamin have worked incredibly well thus far
as a cohesive unit
and we cannot dismiss the presence
on the outside of the ring of MVP,
who joined the fray moments before the break,
but here comes Angelo Dawkins,
and AD is rolling.
[Kevin Patrick] He is feeling it. The pace, the power of Dawkins.
Skips over Shelton.
[Corey] Boom.
[Kevin Patrick] Wow.
[Corey] A bit of a concerned look on the face of MVP.
[Kevin Patrick] We could see him in a match later with Elias
if Adam Pearce is to make that match official.
[Corey] Really excited to see how that pans out,
but right now, Montez Ford making the climb
to the high-rent district.
From the heavens.
[Kevin Patrick] Frog splash!
Hook of the leg for the victory for The Street Profits.
[Corey] Oh, Cedric keeps this one alive for his team.
Look at the height, and above all,
pay attention to the impact.
Montez Ford got it all.
Shelton was done for,
but Cedric kept this match alive for his team.
[Kevin Patrick] A sight to behold.
Montez Ford midair. Now, Shelton Benjamin in a tough spot here
as The Street Profits-- Oh, wait a second.
[Corey] Cedric chopped down AD's leg.
Shelton from the top.
Down goes Montez.
[Kevin Patrick] Is it his time to pounce?
Hooks the leg for the win.
Angelo Dawkins in the way.
[Corey] Take a look at this,
a brilliantly timed chop block by Alexander.
Shelton walks the ropes like a cat
and slammed Montez all the way down,
nearly puts this thing away,
but Angelo Dawkins, at the last possible millisecond,
preserves the opportunity.
[Kevin Patrick] Still curious about MVP's motives here at ringside.
[Corey] Listen, all you need to know about MVP is he's a mogul first.
The man is about making business,
moves, making money,
and making sure everyone around him eats.
[Kevin Patrick] Montez Ford now.
[Corey] Hit right on the ear.
Tags, I believe, were made on both sides of the ring.
Dawkins and Alexander are going to be your legal Superstars.
Montez takes flight.
[Kevin Patrick] And to devastating effect.
Meanwhile, back inside the ring, Cedric Alexander,
all the way through.
[Corey] Alexander just flattened Ford on the outside.
Oh, no.
He's feeling some kind of way.
Get yours, AD.
[Kevin Patrick] Cleaning everybody out is Dawkins.
[Corey] Stuck the landing.
Let's take a look at this series.
First, Alexander, between the middle and bottom ropes
connected and-- Wait.
[Kevin Patrick] Wait a second.
[Corey] MVP was a half a second too late.
the impact… was not mitigated, but Benjamin from behind.
[Kevin Patrick] Referee currently having a word with MVP.
[Corey] Dawkins is down.
[Kevin Patrick] Cedric Alexander hooks the leg. May win this.
-[Corey] Shoulder down. -[Kevin Patrick] Turns it around.
Dawkins turns it around and gets the win.
["Bring the Swag" playing]
[Rome] Here are your winners, The Street Profits.
[Corey] Much to the chagrin of MVP,
who did his best to lend his services.
It did not pan out as MVP had hoped.
Dawkins and Ford fight through
and emerged victorious.
[Kevin Patrick] And if he was trying to help,
man, did that backfire badly against Shelton and Cedric.
[Corey] Our official exercising a little leniency,
allowing Dawkins to reverse the pin attempt.
Pinned Cedric shoulders to the mat and…
[Kevin Patrick] A penny for the boss, as Cedric Alexander and Shelton Benjamin
furious with the impact of MVP.
Let's check in now with our broadcast colleague, Cathy Kelley.
I'm standing by, hoping to get in a word with The Judgment Day.
Guys, do you have a second?
Finn, I just wanted to ask
how are you feeling heading into the six-way elimination match tonight?
Oh, you mean the Six-Pack Challenge Match?
Hey, Damian.
If anybody's ready for a Six-Pack Challenge Match,
it's me, Finn Bálor.
Well, also looking forward to Raw 30 next week.
You guys have a Raw Tag Team Title match
-against the-- -[Gable] Shoosh.
Shoosh. Please.
Because I could not believe my cauliflower ears
when I heard you clowns back here talking
about how you ran through the Raw Tag Division last week.
No, no, no.
Quite the contrary. Actually, you guys barely snuck by The Alphas.
In fact, you should have been medically disqualified.
But no worries.
We get our redemption tonight.
Take back the win you thugs stole from us last week.
[Otis] Yeah.
Look, get lost, Gable,
before you make me do something that I will not regret.
Yes, you better listen to Mami
because I spent all day and all night pumping iron in the yard
and I won't be able to hold her back.
In the yard?
Dom… [chuckles]
Dom, it's no wonder you ended up
on the wrong side of the criminal justice system.
Look, everybody knows with a strong body,
you must supplement a strong mind,
but from the looks and sounds of it, Dom,
you got to work on both.
-[Otis] Oh, yeah. -So, here's a little tip.
Next time you're in prison, why don't you sign up
for one of Alpha Academy's online courses, huh?
Try to make something of yourself, little fella.
Hey, don't talk about prison like that.
You… You don't even want to know what they would do to guys like you.
All right, enough.
Fun and games are over. I'm sick of it.
Why don't you guys take a walk or you won't make it to the ring?
-Take a walk? -Yeah.
Otis hasn't got his steps in yet today. That's a good idea.
All right, we'll see you out there.
Thank you.
Low going.
[Corey] Gable better be careful. Dom might trade him for a honey bun.
[Kevin Patrick] Last week, Bayley was running her mouth,
saying Becky Lynch has an obsession with her.
And she's jealous of what Damage CTRL has.
"The Man of the People" Becky Lynch is here.
Apparently, she wants to set the record straight.
It's next on Raw.
[Corey] Well, KP, we all know
this year, WrestleMania is headed back to Hollywood,
but who could forget the last time,
The Showcase of the Immortals took over La La Land?
We got to relive vignettes like this.
Talking to me?
You talking to me?
Talking to me?
[speaking Japanese]
[in English] So what am I saying?
You got to be kidding me, man. Is this a joke?
[Corey] Just in case you need to refresh your memories,
keep your eyes on all of WWE's social platforms.
We'll be reliving these amazing vignettes
featuring legendary WWE Superstars
on the lead-up to WrestleMania.
I can't wait to get back, and neither can The Man.
["Celtic Invasion" playing]
I hope Cole brings that look back this year.
[Kevin Patrick] Seriously, I'm glad you said that.
[Becky Lynch] The Man has come around to Cincinnati.
[crowd screams]
[Corey] The Man of the People breaking tradition.
Making her way through the sea
that is the WWE Universe in Cincinnati.
Be careful, Becks, I understand they only shower semi-regularly here.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, Corey.
[Corey] Did you ever have Skyline Chili, KP?
You might as well dump ground meat the toilet.
How about the Bengals win yesterday?
[Corey] Oh, stop pandering.
I even dyed my hair orange for youse.
Now, as much as I would love to sit around and chitchat with you,
The Man has some business to take care of.
So, Bayley, get out here, you dope.
[Kevin Patrick] "Dope" is a harsh insult in Ireland.
Come on, Bayley, you dopey Karen-looking fool.
Get out here.
[Corey] That's even worse.
Yo, Karen, what are you doing?
You're back there yelling at some manager or something?
Get your kumquat-eating ass out here.
["Deliverance" playing]
[laughs]
Oh, my God, this is embarrassing. [cackles]
Um, you guys, I think I beat Becky so bad the other week
that she forgot what my name was, because--
[shushes] Shush, please.
Because my name is Bayley.
My name is not Karen.
No, no. You're a Karen, you idiot,
or like these people would call you, "Boo."
[crowd booing]
No. I am a person and my name is Bayley.
Like your name is Becky, her name's IYO, her name's Dakota, so on and so forth--
Somebody please explain to her what a Karen is.
Yes. Yes. you're a moaning, entitled idiot with a crappy haircut.
[Corey] I have an Aunt Karen.
-She's pretty nice. -[Kevin Patrick] Me too.
Real mature, Becks.
Real mature.
[crowd chanting] Becky! Becky! Becky!
You know, you're standing there and calling me all these names,
but to me,
this sounds like a bitter reaction that you lost to me,
and you're still standing there without any friends. [laughs]
I think I have plenty of friends here.
It sounds like I have an arena full of friends.
What do you say, Cincinnati?
[crowd cheers]
And we all think you're a sour-faced cheating dope that
peaked in 2015.
2015, huh?
2015.
You mean the year that I ran NXT
and you ran off with the other Horsewomen and you took my spot?
[Becky Lynch] Oh!
Oh, okay. All right. Okay, now I'm seeing everything clearly.
Is that why you found yourself
two random friends and call yourself a faction?
You're trying to recreate something. Is that it?
I'm not trying to recreate anything, Becky.
I was robbed. All right?
I was robbed by you.
You took my spot on Raw, you took my spot on SmackDown,
and you took my spot at WrestleMania
and everything that you have should have been mine.
That's right!
See…
I think the point that you're missing is that
I wasn't brought up because they saw more in me than they did you.
No, no, no.
You were kept in NXT because you wanted to be a leader. No?
You were the champion.
You wanted to help the future. Isn't that what you've said?
Or, or…
Are you full of crap, like I always said you were?
[crowd cheers]
You, you, you were supposed to have your own spotlight.
I was seen as just another body.
I wasn't supposed to be The Man,
I wasn't supposed to change the game,
I wasn't supposed to be the first woman to win the main event of WrestleMania.
[crowd cheers]
But I did.
Because I love this and I work for this,
and I work harder than anybody else,
and I'm going to keep working for this until I can't do it anymore.
Now…
I know, I know you love this.
I know you love this, but the difference between me and you is
when it's not your go and it's not you being the focal point,
you just whine and moan and blame everybody else.
"It's the fans' fault, it's Bianca's fault, it's my fault."
It's your fault.
[crowd chanting] Becky! Becky! Becky!
Don't even bother chanting her name.
You know what, Becky?
You guys know nothing.
You guys know nothing about who she is.
The only reason you became The Man
is because you were punched in the face by another woman.
Oh.
All right. That's original. That's original.
I haven't heard that,
but maybe I should punch you in the face right now
so that you can get out of that rut that you've been stuck in.
Or are you going to keep hiding behind these two
like you have been?
No, no, no. I don't need them.
Just like I didn't need them when I beat you.
I don't need them then, and I don't need them now.
All right. So then you'll have no problem facing me next week?
[Bayley] Yeah, no problem.
So you'll have no problem facing me one-on-one next week?
[laughs] No problem.
So you'll have no problem facing me one-on-one next week
in a Steel Cage Match?
[crowd cheers]
No problem.
Really? Because it sounded like there was a little hesitation in your voice.
No, there's no hesitation. I said no problem. You idiot.
All right, it's official.
See you next week.
[mic thuds]
[Kevin Patrick] Wow.
[Corey] Did Becky Lynch just goad Bayley into making a colossal mistake
at the 30th anniversary of Monday Night Raw?
[Kevin Patrick] If it is made official, one-on-one,
Bayley, Becky Lynch inside a steel cage.
Bayley will not have Dakota or IYO by her side.
[mouthing] See you next week.
Good luck again in the main event.
Yeah, yeah. No, no, no. Don't pay attention to me.
You know, the guy you screwed over for the US Title,
the guy that you refused to tag with in Tag Team Turmoil?
You know what? it's got to be so good to be you.
A guy that gets opportunity after opportunity
literally handed to him.
Come on.
You should know better than anyone else,
no one gets anything handed to them around here.
So from one professional to another,
I don't have time to pay attention to you today.
I got to get in the zone.
[grunts]
Do I have your attention now?
[Kevin Patrick] Dolph Ziggler just cannot avoid Mustafa Ali.
Ziggler is a man who's held 15 championships in WWE.
But he knows it's one treacherous journey to 16,
where Ziggler must outlast five other former United States Champions
for a title opportunity against Austin Theory next week
on Raw's 30th anniversary.
[Kevin Patrick] Royal Rumble is presented by Cricket.
With fast and powerful nationwide 5G coverage,
you can stress less and smile more.
And buy the official WWE Credit One Visa card.
If you want to show off your WWE pride every time you pay,
visit ultimateWWEcard.com to see if you prequalify now.
Terms apply.
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, Elias!
[Corey] You know our answer.
[laughs] It looks that way.
It looks like it's been made official, Kevin Patrick.
What a treat. MVP.
[Kevin Patrick] Wait. He's not dressed for action.
[Corey] MVP is a bad dude.
He can get it done even in a suit.
You seem confused, Elias.
Did you think you were going to face me tonight?
Oh, well, I'm sorry, Mr. Rock n' Roll Man.
It seems we had a little communication breakdown.
That's what happens when you don't have any pull around here.
You get left out of the loop.
And I know that lately, things have not been going well for you,
but they're about to get a lot worse.
Because you are facing the 2023 Royal Rumble winner.
It's just not me.
It's this man.
["Shake the Ground" playing]
[Corey] Oh, no.
Elias has stepped in it now.
[Kevin Patrick] The Nigerian Giant is back on Monday Night Raw.
This is going to be a bigger disaster than The Stones at Altamont.
[Rome] And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by MVP,
standing in at 7'3",
weighing 416 lbs,
"The Nigerian Giant" Omos!
[Kevin Patrick] Did you hear Mike Rome? 7'3", 416 lbs.
[Corey] I do my best to ignore my Mike Rome,
but I know those stats too, KP.
I'm a professional, I'm a journalist,
but even I didn't see this coming.
Look at the size of Omos.
Under the tutelage of one of the most dangerous minds
the game has ever known, MVP,
Omos may very well be the odds-on favorite to win the Royal Rumble Match.
I wouldn't bet against him.
[Kevin Patrick] Look at the size. I think he's gotten bigger.
I really do.
[Corey] I bet at this point in his career
Elias wishes he would have been born to run.
[Kevin Patrick] MVP calling it a communication breakdown
-on Elias' behalf. -[bell ringing]
[Corey] That's what we do here.
I get to watch Elias get beaten up and make fun music references.
This is my favorite time of the week.
[Kevin Patrick] Omos at pace early here.
What's the strategy for Elias in a match like this?
[Corey] Oh, listen, I actually agree with Elias' strategy.
Just throw everything you have, or had,
at The Nigerian Giant from the opening bell.
And it was a hell of an effort, Elias, but--
-[Corey groans] -[Elias groans]
[Kevin Patrick] Elias is an enormous human being,
but he looks so small, so tiny standing next to Omos.
[Corey] Elias is in tremendous physical condition,
but even he's being overwhelmed
by "The Nigerian Giant" Omos.
Smart move by Elias, the veteran,
trying to utilize his surroundings to give himself a better fighting chance.
Rights and lefts, Elias teeing off.
[Kevin Patrick] Trying to really stun Omos here. Oh.
[roaring]
[Kevin Patrick] Omos at pace now. Nobody home.
[Corey] Hey, hey, Mama said the way you move
going to make you sweat, going to make you groove.
How about that, KP?
[Kevin Patrick groans]
[crowd booing]
[Corey] He's got to be careful. He's gonna get beat up twice.
[Kevin Patrick] He may have found a weapon of his own.
[Corey] Oh, no, no, no
[Kevin Patrick] Look out!
[Corey] Oh, my God.
That enormous cranium of Omos
just made a sickening thud upon contact.
[crowd cheers]
[Kevin Patrick] He's about to feast inside the ring.
Omos making his way back in as Elias looks to respond now.
[Corey] Elias trying to make the best of the situation.
jumping knee…
and The Giant is teetering.
A third jumping knee by Elias.
[MVP] Come on, Omos!
[Kevin Patrick] May be his opportunity,
and what a victory it would be for Elias.
Omos struggling to get back on his feet.
Oh, no.
Oh, my word.
Omos hooks the leg,
-puts away Elias with ease. -[bell ringing]
["Shake the Ground" playing]
[Rome] Here is your winner, Omos.
[Corey] You heard MVP call his shot.
The winner of the men's 2023 Royal Rumble Match will be
"The Nigerian Giant" Omos.
Take a look at this.
First, the massive palm of Omos stopped the guitar,
and that head-butt made my stomach churn.
And this is like falling off the top of a skyscraper.
[Kevin Patrick] Listen to the thud
as Elias, his back shatters off the canvas.
One week from Saturday at the Royal Rumble,
Omos could be tearing through the field.
MVP by his side.
[Corey] Could be? Omos will be the axe who clears the forest.
I am here with WWE official Adam Pearce.
And Adam, could you give us a taste of what's in store for Raw 30?
I knew you'd ask me that.
Listen, we're dotting the I's, crossing the T's,
but I can promise you, Raw 30 is going to be unforgettable.
The biggest in the history of Monday Night Raw.
Tonight's six-way elimination match,
it gets even bigger.
Six of the top Superstars of Monday Night Raw
all vying to compete for an opportunity at that United States Championship
on Raw's 30th anniversary.
Byron, that's big.
-That is real-- -[Tozawa] Enough!
I will tell you what's bigger.
The Royal Rumble!
And I want in.
Tozawa, I appreciate that. Everybody wants in.
It's the Royal Rumble.
We just don't throw those opportunities out. You got to earn it.
Give me a match tonight.
I will show you that I deserve to be in the Rumble.
Okay.
I can't promise you anything, but I can give you a match tonight,
and if you win, that goes a long way to helping your case. Fair?
Let's get ready to the rumble!
[screams enthusiastically]
[Kevin Patrick] We got to wait and see what's in store for Akira Tozawa,
And look at Rhea Ripley, The Eradicator,
leading The Judgment Day forward.
They've got one week to go
until the Raw Tag Team Championship Match against The Usos,
but The Alpha Academy awaits tonight, next.
[Kevin Patrick] We're just one week removed
from Finn Bálor having his ribs pulverized by the 330 lbs of Otis.
It says a lot about the mindset of Bálor
that he's here for a fight tonight,
his sights set on Austin Theory's United States Championship.
Our main event is a six-way elimination match
with all former United States Champions.
["The Other Side" playing]
[crowd exclaiming]
[loud bang]
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is a tag-team match
scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first,
accompanied to the ring by Finn Bálor and Rhea Ripley,
representing The Judgment Day,
Damian Priest and Dominik Mysterio.
[Corey] Hide your kids, hide your wife.
Dominik Mysterio is back on the streets.
Back on the prowl.
[Kevin Patrick] Hide your wallet.
The Judgment Day making their way to the squared circle.
Damian Priest and Dominik Mysterio,
tag-team action against The Alpha Academy.
The swagger on show
from The Judgment Day and the unlikely hero
last week in Tag Team turmoil
thrust into the spotlight. Dominik Mysterio.
[Corey] Well, I know Dominik, not necessarily comfortable around you, KP,
but he dropped me a kite earlier today.
Said he hopes The Usos give it up smooth
'cause there ain't no telling when I'm down for a jack move.
I don't know exactly what that means,
but Dom said it, so it sounds dangerous.
[Kevin Patrick] Spent all day pumping iron in the yard, apparently.
[Corey] You making fun? You got jokes, KP?
Speak up a little bit.
Hey, can we turn up Kevin Patrick's mic in the ring?
Trust me, you don't want that smoke, KP.
[Kevin Patrick] It was The Miz on Miz TV that uncovered
that Dominik Mysterio did spend a few hours in county jail.
-That's all I'm saying. -[Corey] You have any idea
the damage Dominik could do to you with a toothbrush?
[Kevin Patrick] I'm a professional journalist.
[Corey] Yeah, give Dom a bar of soap, see if you can walk the next day.
["Shoooosh" playing]
[Rome] And their opponents, Otis and Chad Gable,
Alpha Academy!
[Kevin Patrick] The impact Otis had last week in the Tag Team Turmoil Match,
crushing the ribs of Finn Bálor.
Bálor, of course, has to take part
in tonight's main event somehow,
if he is fully recovered.
[Corey] Look at the size of the number-one guy.
I swear, Otis gets bigger by the week and even nastier in the ring.
[Kevin Patrick] The Alpha Academy feel that
The Judgment Day should have been disqualified
if Finn Bálor is medically disqualified.
[Corey] Listen, Chad Gable and Otis both live very moral lifestyles.
They tend to not flirt with the law.
They don't like to break the rules. They're law-abiding citizens.
They should be looked up to. Should be respected.
Alpha Academy, definitely role models in WWE.
Dominik Mysterio, more of a cautionary tale.
[Kevin Patrick] This time last year, The Alpha Academy,
-Raw Tag Team champions. -[bell ringing]
[Corey] Look at Dom throwing hands in the corner.
We got to show a little respect
to Damian Priest, who last week was in this ring for over an hour
in a Gauntlet Match,
which is how The Judgment Day wound up in the position they are in.
Tremendous effort
from the punishment of The Judgment Day last week.
[Kevin Patrick] 56 minutes in the ring last week for Damian Priest.
[Rhea Ripley] Dom!
[Corey] They don't have Greco-Roman in the clink.
[Kevin Patrick] Dominik Mysterio, seeking a little advice here early on.
Get him!
[Kevin Patrick] Up against the Olympian, Chad Gable.
[Corey] You know my favorite part of last week, Kevin Patrick?
When Rhea Ripley almost beat you up for talking about her man.
[Kevin Patrick] It's a true story.
[Corey] Here comes Damian Priest,
the power of The Judgment Day.
Gable looking to utilize his quickness and ground game,
try to neutralize the bigger man.
[Kevin Patrick] What have we seen for Damian Priest of late?
He seems to have taken his game to a completely new level.
[Corey] Damian Priest,
all he has wanted for months and months has been opportunity.
Priest realized the opportunity that was in front of him
and Dominik, and Finn, for that matter, last week on Raw
and capitalized, period.
When your number gets called, when you receive an opportunity in WWE,
you have to maximize it.
You don't get many chances to achieve greatness.
[Kevin Patrick] Chad Gable so methodical.
An expert here.
But he's up against the powerhouse of Damian Priest.
[Corey] Look at the quickness and the fluidity of Gable,
but great lower body strength
by Damian Priest just thwarting the drop toe-hold attempt.
[Kevin Patrick] Gable evades the danger…
and the boot.
[commentators groan]
[Corey] Ankle lock applied, Priest in all types of trouble.
Wisely…
forcing the official to break the hold by grabbing the ropes,
and Priest just put his boot through Gable's heart.
Finn Bálor with an opportunity later tonight
as part of the six-man elimination match.
[Kevin Patrick] Priest now into the corner at pace.
Oh, man.
-Dragon screw applied. -[Otis] Tag.
[Corey] Let's talk about the support system
provided by The Judgment Day.
Finn's got a massive match later, but he's still out here showing support,
and I don't know what the hell Otis is doing.
[Kevin Patrick] The roar here in Cincinnati when Otis was tagged in.
[Corey] I'm half expecting Otis to run through a brick wall
and pour me a refreshing beverage.
Tag is made. Gable making the climb to the top rope.
Fantastic teamwork by The Academy.
[Kevin Patrick] We expect nothing less from The Alpha Academy.
Chad Gable now going to work on Priest, who turns it around.
[commentators exclaim]
[Corey] Nasty landing by Gable.
[Kevin Patrick] The Judgment Day on top and brutalizing The Academy.
[Rhea Ripley] I ain't going to touch you.
[Kevin Patrick] The boos ringing out inside the arena here in Cincinnati.
The Judgment Day on top of Chad Gable, turning it around.
[Kevin Patrick] Agony in the face of Dominik Mysterio.
[Corey] You say it like it's a surprise. Gable was trying to break Dominik's arm.
[Kevin Patrick] Why such a change in Dominik
after a few hours in county jail?
[Corey] What do you mean, a few hours?
Dominik Mysterio can't live a normal life.
He was raised by the streets, okay?
He can only rely on one person.
Do you know what that upbringing's like, KP?
Do you know what it's like to have no one to rely on
except Mami, who you got to stare at through a pane of glass?
According to Michael Cole, he's been handed everything in his life
by his legendary father, Rey Mysterio.
[Corey] Oh-ho! Ever heard of affluenza?
That's a viable defense in court.
Look at Priest.
[Kevin Patrick] Priest, again, 56 minutes in the ring.
The energy on show from Damian Priest.
Hook of the leg.
Priest now, kicks out.
Chad Gable kicks out.
[Corey] Look at the power of Damian Priest,
just punishing Chad Gable, and a right hand for Otis
in the top of your screen.
Spine-jarring impact.
[Kevin Patrick] Gable fights back. Ooh.
[Corey] And Priest answers with a right.
[Kevin Patrick] Tag is made.
Dominik taught me how to make my own tattoo ink
using a saltine cracker box today.
[Kevin Patrick] He learned that… Are you serious?
[Corey] Listen, Dom's a very, very smart guy,
He's very crafty,
Especially on the top rope.
Look at this.
[Kevin Patrick] Let's see how smart this strategy is.
Pushed away by Chad Gable.
[Corey] Chad Gable, the Olympian, perched up top.
That is a long way to fly.
Gable connects.
[Kevin Patrick] Somehow.
How far was that from Chad Gable?
-Astounding. -[Finn] Make the tag.
[crowd cheers]
[Corey] Both men desperately need to make a tag.
The WWE Universe wants them a dose of Otis.
[Kevin Patrick] Tag's made.
Here comes Otis and Damian Priest.
Look at the impact of the 330-lb Otis.
[Corey] The number-one guy.
[Kevin Patrick] Swats Dominik Mysterio away.
[Corey] Like a big angry pinball right now.
Oh, man.
Just shrugged Priest off.
[Kevin Patrick] Boot to the jaw of Otis.
-Wow. Hooks the leg. -[Corey] My goodness.
[Kevin Patrick] Otis for The Academy.
Priest kicks out.
[Corey] Wow.
Last week, it was Otis and Chad Gable in unison
crashing down across Finn Bálor
that took Bálor out of the match-up.
Look at Dom making a tag,
unbeknownst to the big man.
Double it up.
[Kevin Patrick] Otis now smothering Damian Priest.
He's got shaky legs.
Oh, man. Priest…
is down and out behind Otis.
[crowd cheering]
Surely, this is time to pounce for the big man.
Oh. [laughs]
[Corey] On what planet do you call that a pounce?
Good Lord.
I've had more-- Never mind.
Tag is made.
[Kevin Patrick] Family show.
Otis now to the second rope.
Oh! Dominik Mysterio.
[Corey] Oh.
Priest connects with a shot to the back of Otis.
What is going to happen here?
Oh, my God. Oh, my God.
This is a journey to the center of the ring.
[Kevin Patrick] Will the ring survive?
How powerful is Damian Priest?
Chad Gable now. Hang on a second.
Chaos Theory.
[Kevin Patrick] Dominik Mysterio from nowhere, stacks him up.
Kicks out. Chad Gable still alive.
Ankle lock applied.
[Corey] Dom's in trouble.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, Rhea Ripley. Trying to help out Dominik Mysterio.
The referee looking the other way as Damian Priest…
[Corey] South of Heaven Chokeslam.
Look at the perseverance of Dominik.
One, two, three.
[Kevin Patrick] The Judgment Day take it.
[Corey] What an inspiration.
[Rome] Here are your winners, The Judgment Day!
[Corey] That's called making the most of what you're provided with.
It's how you live in a joint.
It's how you succeed in the Judgment Day.
[Kevin Patrick] Dominik Mysterio is all smiles.
Rhea Ripley here.
You cannot deny the impact that Rhea Ripley made.
[Corey] The ride-or-die mentality of Rhea Ripley paying off.
An epic South of Heaven Chokeslam
by Damian Priest.
And this, this is just pure grit that can't be taught,
it's got to be earned.
[Kevin Patrick] Victory for The Judgment Day.
One week away now
from an opportunity for the Raw Tag Team Championships
against The Usos at Raw 30.
[Corey] The Usos ready to lock down another tag team,
but Dominik and Priest have never felt more at home,
more prepared for a night in The Uso Penitentiary.
The Raw Tag Team Titles are on the line next week.
The Judgment Day, The Usos
on Monday Night Raw.
Corey, are you still smiling at that Dominik Mysterio's impact?
Of course I am.
Well, folks, here at WWE and all around the world,
today, we are honoring the memory of a visionary leader
and a human rights champion.
It is, of course, Dr. Martin Luther King.
[hopeful music playing]
[Dr. King] Now is the time
to make real the promises of democracy,
that all men
will be guaranteed the unalienable life of life, liberty
and the pursuit of happiness.
♪ We got a good thing, babe ♪
♪ Whenever life is hard ♪
♪ We'll never lose our way ♪
♪ 'Cause we both know who we are ♪
I have a dream that my four little children
will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged
by the color of their skin
but by the content of their character.
I have a dream today.
♪ Who knows about tomorrow? ♪
♪ We don't know what's in the stars ♪
♪ I just know I'll always follow ♪
♪ The light in your heart ♪
Somewhere I read that the greatness of America
is the right to protest for rights.
♪ We will never break ♪
♪ Built on a foundation ♪
♪ Strong enough to stay ♪
No, we are not satisfied, and we will never be satisfied
until justice rolls down like water
and righteousness like a mighty stream.
♪ It's more than a good sensation ♪
♪ It's more than a passing fling ♪
♪ You are the explanation ♪
♪ Of what love really means ♪
♪ So I'm not worried about us ♪
♪ And I've never been ♪
♪ No matter what may come our way ♪
♪ We will never break ♪
♪ As the water rises ♪
♪ And the mountains shake ♪
I've been to the mountaintop.
I may not get there with you…
but I want you to know tonight
that we, as a people, will get to the promised land.
♪ We will never ♪
♪ No, never ♪
♪ We will ♪
♪ We will never break ♪
I have a dream,
when all of God's children,
Black men and white men, will be able to join hands
and sing in the words of the old spiritual,
"Free at last. Free at last.
"Thank God almighty, we are free at last."
[crowd applauding]
[Kevin Patrick] Welcome back, folks.
Now, The Miz is one of the most artful, conniving
and calculated Superstars we've ever seen.
What will The A-Lister have up his sleeve in tonight's main event
when he must overcome five other Superstars
for a chance at Austin Theory
and the United States Championship?
[Corey] You used plenty of adjectives, KP,
but I didn't hear awesome in there anywhere.
["Tokyo Shock" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first,
accompanied to the ring by Bayley and Dakota Kai,
she's one half of the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
Damage CTRL,
IYO SKY.
[Corey] Love the vibe of IYO SKY's music, as she makes her entrance sans Bayley.
Bayley obviously believes in the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
IYO in particular, to handle her business all on her own.
That's confidence.
[Kevin Patrick] Or the words of Becky Lynch have infiltrated
the mind of Bayley.
Saying she relies on her lackeys, IYO and Dakota.
[Corey] You're giving The Man
a little more credit than she's due in this particular instance.
["I Am" playing]
♪ I am, I am, I am The one ain't hard to see hard to see ♪
♪ You know, you know That she's that beauty and that beast ♪
♪ There is, there is… ♪
[Corey] Here comes someone cosplaying as Prison Dom.
♪ Headed to the top Best believe, best believe, ayy ♪
♪ I am the truth… ♪
[Corey] What, cat got your tongue, KP?
You're still scared, I get it.
Michin a popular character
in the women's locker room. She's not alone tonight.
["Wicked Ways" playing]
[Rome] And her opponent, accompanied by Candice LeRae,
"Michin" Mia Yim.
[Kevin Patrick] Michin has been a real thorn
in the side of Damage CTRL
since arriving on the scene here on Monday Night Raw.
Tonight, not alone.
the plucky Poison Pixie, Candice LeRae, will be by Michin's side.
It's Michin and IYO SKY in one-on-one action.
Can't forget, of course, Candice LeRae
put on the shelf for five weeks by Damage CTRL, an attack backstage
in which Candice points out she couldn't even hold her own baby.
[Corey] Was she holding someone else's baby?
[bell ringing]
[Kevin Patrick] The bell rings. Here we go.
Comedian tonight, Graves.
[Corey] Long one tonight.
Michin and IYO SKY locking up to start things off.
And Mia Yim obviously with a power advantage.
[Kevin Patrick] So why has Michin been such a thorn in the side of Damage CTRL?
[Corey] It comes back to the mentality that
drew the attention of The O.C. to begin with.
The relentlessness of Mia Yim.
She wants to be at the top of the mountain,
and she realizes that it's going to be an arduous path.
Success doesn't always happen overnight,
rarely does it happen overnight in WWE.
Michin has honed her craft around the world,
much like an IYO SKY or Dakota Kai.
Michin is here to get hers.
[Kevin Patrick] It is, of course, Royal Rumble season.
San Antonio, Texas, the Alamodome,
one week from Saturday.
Michin would love to be in the Royal Rumble Match. Oh, man.
[Corey] Look at the athleticism of IYO.
IYO realized she didn't have her footing
as she wanted it.
Smart move calling the audible. From the top,
Dropkick connects.
That's why they call her The Genius of the Sky.
And the kip-up.
The energy from IYO SKY.
Oh, man.
[Corey] Meteora in the bottom turnbuckle.
-[Corey] IYO now, to put away Michin. -One, two--
[Kevin Patrick] Michin is not going down that easy.
[Corey] Take another look at this. Look at the precision.
IYO, full extension, pumping both legs into the dropkick,
and then following with, boom, two knees right to the collarbones.
[Kevin Patrick] It would seem like a calculated play from many people
that Bayley would appear and then decide to say in front of everybody,
-"You go it alone." -[Corey] No.
You know what the problem is, Kevin Patrick?
Bayley probably wants IYO to get the attention she deserves
rather than you and everyone else talking about Bayley, Bayley, Bayley.
We've got the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions out here.
We've got Michin, a rising star in the division.
Bayley just wants to help everybody,
despite what Becky Lynch and her selfishness thinks.
[Kevin Patrick] IYO SKY.
[Corey] Trying to pry apart the hands of Michin.
A modified crossface applied.
IYO has got her arm bent.
That's going to minimize some of the pressure
on the shoulder joint.
[Kevin Patrick] She's so creative, IYO SKY, but now--
-[Corey] Shoulders down. -[Kevin Patrick] Sheer grit.
[Corey] Great awareness by Michin.
Forcing a pinfall escape.
But IYO, once again, right back on top.
[Kevin Patrick] IYO SKY now.
Buckling at the knees was Michin, but look at Michin go now.
Look at IYO SKY.
[Corey] Yes, athleticism and a shotei uppercut rocks Mia Yim.
[Kevin Patrick] Mia, though,
looking to end IYO SKY, who's one determined Superstar.
[Corey] IYO wanted the hurricanrana,
but Mia just a little too strong.
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh. -[Corey] And a neckbreaker takes down SKY.
[Kevin Patrick] What a victory for Michin if she could get it.
You think about the dominance
that Damage CTRL have had since arriving at SummerSlam in Nashville.
[Corey] This is an opportunity for Michin to make something happen,
but taking a lot of time trying to get back on the horse here.
[Kevin Patrick] Powerful blows and a kick from Michin.
Ooh.
[Corey] Big kick right across the chest of SKY,
and another.
[Kevin Patrick] Look at IYO SKY. Straight back up on her feet.
Face-first into the canvas this time.
Oh!
[Corey] Dropkick takes down IYO once again.
[Kevin Patrick] Bayley no doubt watching from backstage,
as IYO SKY looks for a big victory here over Michin.
Oh, man.
[Corey] Beautiful German suplex by Michin.
[Kevin Patrick] Example of the power from Michin.
[Corey] Michin thinking about the Eat Defeat maneuver.
Oh, jackknife cover by SKY.
[Kevin Patrick] Outside of the ring.
[Corey] What is Candice LeRae doing getting involved with Dakota?
[Kevin Patrick] IYO SKY has something to say about it.
[Corey] Here it comes.
Eat Defeat.
Michin, hooks the leg.
Can she get the victory? She's got it.
[bell ringing]
["I Am" playing]
[Corey] At the count of four, Dakota Kai in,
looking to avenge her partner's loss.
[Kevin Patrick] Candice LeRae is not hanging around.
She was here to support Michin.
She's doing exactly that.
What a statement from Michin, and Candice LeRae by her side.
[Corey] A big win for "Michin" Mia Yim.
You got to have eyes in the back of your head in WWE.
Smart strategy finding a friend in Candice LeRae.
[Kevin Patrick] A statement made, then, as you mentioned,
by Michin and Candice LeRae,
but one other Superstar made quite that lasting impression
last week, albeit a sadistic one and a sinister one at that.
I know who you're talking about, KP.
You're referring to Alexa Bliss,
who seems to have unlocked something within in, in recent weeks.
I promise you, when I looked in her eyes last week,
or should I say, when she looked in mine,
I saw nothing.
Absolute nothingness.
-It was terrifying. -Me too. I agree with you.
She put Bianca Belair out of action last week,
the Raw Women's Champion,
and she used that time to reiterate her newfound sense of power.
[eerie music playing]
Bianca Belair might be the Raw Women's Champion,
but I'm the only one here.
[Corey] Alexa Bliss has come unglued before our very eyes.
[Alexa] When I busted her face open a week ago,
Bianca decided to go run and hide.
[Corey] Alexa Bliss has just decimated the Raw Women's Champion.
[Alexa] Smart on her end because she knows
she doesn't need to be afraid of Bray Wyatt or Uncle Howdy.
She's afraid of me.
Because I am the face of evil.
Because I have finally taken control
and I am the one in charge.
[maniacal laughter]
[eerie music playing]
[maniacal laughter]
[Uncle Howdy] Do you feel in charge?
Do you feel like you're in charge?
Do you feel in charge?
[ominous music playing]
[laughter]
[Corey] Creepy scenes there with Uncle Howdy and Alexa Bliss,
but look at this.
The proud Raw Women's Champion is back tonight.
She's here and she's on Monday Night Raw, next.
[Kevin Patrick] Welcome back to Monday Night Raw,
and, folks, we are so incredibly excited
for the Royal Rumble which kicks off The Road to WrestleMania.
The Rumble is coming your way from the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas,
one week from Saturday.
[Corey] Of course, we are all looking forward
to the annual 30-man over-the-top-rope Royal Rumble Match.
You are only eliminated when you're thrown over the top rope
with both feet touching the ground.
The winner heads to the fast lane,
to the main event of WrestleMania.
[Kevin Patrick] Is that Omos in the background on that graphic?
Cannot wait for it.
It was laid out earlier on Raw, folks.
We'll tell you that The Bloodline have not solved the KO problem.
It is the biggest match of Kevin Owens' life.
It's for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship
against "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns.
[Corey] And, unfortunately, we have more questions than answers
as pertains to this one.
Expect the unexpected
in the first-ever Mountain Dew Pitch Black Match.
Bray Wyatt one-on-one with LA Knight.
[Kevin Patrick] And we have the 30-woman Royal Rumble Match.
Liv Morgan, Rhea Ripley, Raquel Rodriguez and Candice LeRae
have already declared for this match.
Who is going to be the last woman standing
and receive a championship match
on The Grandest Stage of Them All at WrestleMania?
["Watch Me Shine" playing]
[Corey] Here's a woman who knows a thing or two
about The Showcase of the Immortals.
[Kevin Patrick] It's a welcome back to the champion, Bianca Belair.
[Rome] Please welcome the Raw Women's Champion,
Bianca Belair!
[Corey] Bianca making her return after
suffering the wrath of an unhinged Alexa Bliss,
but The EST eager to pick up right where she left off
at the top of the Raw Women's Mountain.
[Kevin Patrick] You have to admire the pep in the step of Bianca Belair,
the fearless approach of The EST.
[Corey] Belair has never met a challenge she backed down from.
I'm sure Alexa Bliss will be no different.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] EST! EST! EST!
Now, I know it's only been a couple of weeks,
but I have missed y'all so, so, so much.
[crowd cheers]
I mean, you best believe it,
if it was up to me, I would never miss a Monday Night Raw.
But with this job,
this job that I have, this job that I absolutely love,
it's just not possible without risk.
I mean, just like the risk of me getting my face busted
right there on those steel steps.
But you know what?
Even if I end up with this scar on my face after what Alexa did to me,
I would still face her, again…
and again…
and again and again and again and again.
Because with every risk
comes the reward of remaining your Raw Women's Champion.
[crowd cheers]
[crowd chanting] EST! EST! EST!
So, Alexa,
I might not have been here last week,
but you best believe I heard everything that you had to say.
Now, I want to know if you got the guts
to come out here and actually say it to my face.
["Fight Me" playing]
Uh-oh.
[Corey] It appears that Alexa Bliss has the required amount of guts.
Because here comes the wicked Little Miss Bliss.
Bianca, I will gladly come out here
and repeat myself for you or anyone else that needs to hear it.
You fear me
because you don't know what to expect from me.
No one does.
But, let me let you in
on a little something going on in my mind right now.
-The Royal Rumble is in two weeks-- -[Belair] Girl.
I'm just going to stop you right there.
I mean, do you really want to try to beat 29 other women
to wait for a title opportunity at WrestleMania?
Or…
do you want to face me for the Raw Women's Championship
at Royal Rumble?
[crowd cheers]
What's the catch?
I mean, you're the one that wanted to be in control, so…
the choice is yours.
I'll see you at Rumble.
[crowd cheers]
And you can see me tonight too.
[Corey] Uh-oh.
It's about to pop off.
Belair just clocked Bliss with a right.
[Kevin Patrick] Bianca wants a fight. Bianca wants redemption.
She wants payback against Alexa Bliss.
[Corey] The offer was laid out by the champion.
Belair and Bliss at the Royal Rumble for the Raw Women's Championship
if it's made official,
but right now, Belair looking to gain the upper hand.
[Kevin Patrick] There's the steels step that Alexa threw Bianca into
a couple of weeks ago.
[Corey] The brakes work tonight.
[Kevin Patrick] Stitches across the face of Bianca Belair
as she bravely goes after Alexa Bliss.
[Corey] Bliss avoided contact and Bianca
spills into the front row of the WWE Universe.
[crowd shouting indistinctly]
Get up, Alexa!
Get up, Alexa! Attack from behind!
[Kevin Patrick] Bianca's time to pounce.
Into the crowd they go.
You can be sure Bianca Belair's been thinking about this moment
for the last couple of weeks.
[Corey] Look at Belair teeing off.
This is personal.
[Corey] A match to come at the Royal Rumble.
[Kevin Patrick] That's if Alexa Bliss can make it there
after Bianca Belair's through with her.
[Corey] You're right. Maybe deep inside,
Belair does have a little more respect for Bliss.
Maybe a bit of a fear of what Bliss is capable of.
This is Bianca's chance to stop it before it gets started.
No, no.
This is going to be the end of Bliss.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh…
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] Alexa…
-[Corey] Oh, no. Dear God. -…turns it around.
[Corey] DDT on the floor with-- What the?
[splutters] That figure is--
[crowd chanting] One more time! One more time! One more time!
[Kevin Patrick] Can't wait for Friday Night SmackDown,
but here on Monday Night Raw, Akira Tozawa has made his way to the ring.
Canvassed WWE official Adam Pearce
for an opportunity to be in the Royal Rumble Match
to come a week from Saturday.
Adam Pearce said, "Maybe. First, get through a match tonight."
Look who's in his way.
[Rome] And his opponent, from Black Forest, South Australia,
weighing in at 330 lbs,
Bronson Reed.
[Corey] I have to check the rule book.
Can portions of a human being enter the Royal Rumble Match?
I'm just asking, because after Bronson devours Tozawa,
there's not going to be a whole lot left come San Antonio.
[Kevin Patrick] As Rome said again, 330 lbs.
[Corey] Could you please stop saying Rome's name on my television?
Particularly when we have
"The Colossal" Bronson Reed on our screens.
Ladies and gentlemen, if you've never gotten eyes
on this dude before,
prepare yourself.
Well over 300 lbs, moves like a man half his size.
He is strong as an ox, a powerlifting background.
And if you don't believe that people of that size
can soar through the skies with the greatest of ease,
-just stay tuned. -[bell ringing]
[Kevin Patrick] The bell rings. One-on-one action, Reed against Tozawa.
Bronson Reed brought to WWE,
hoss for hire, by The Miz.
Paid to help him out to win the ladder match against Dexter Lumis.
Now Bronson Reed has his…
-[Tozawa groans] -Look at him here.
Put away Tozawa early, perhaps.
[Corey] Speed and power.
When you've got a Superstar the size of Bronson Reed,
even a waistlock is absolutely agonizing.
It is exhausting.
Bronson realizes that Tozawa prides himself
on his in-ring stamina,
so let's just extinguish that early on.
[Kevin Patrick] Spent some time in Japan. He's very aware of Akira Tozawa's style.
Bronson Reed, a former NXT North American champion.
[Corey] Tozawa spent a lot of time in America.
Does that mean he's familiar with Bronson's style?
[Kevin Patrick] He's not familiar with that.
[Corey] How do you prepare for a brick wall coming your way?
It doesn't happen.
[Kevin Patrick] As Reed stalks Tozawa, standing over him.
[Corey] When it comes to Bronson Reed, he's more than just size.
The guy has speed, he has agility.
Oh, man!
And Bronson Reed has a mean streak wider than he is, man.
I mean that in the best way possible.
Big right hand.
[Kevin Patrick] Blow after blow to Akira Tozawa
who looks helpless in the corner.
[Corey] Look, Tozawa is a tough, tough individual…
but right now, he has got no answer
for "The Colossal" Bronson Reed.
[Kevin Patrick] At pace… Oh, man.
-Akira Tozawa asked for this match. -[Bronson] You ain't got nothing, Tozawa.
[Kevin Patrick] He asked for the opportunity,
and this is what WWE official Adam Pearce presented him with.
[Corey] You got to earn things here in WWE.
You don't demand anything of anybody.
God dang! What was that, KP?
[Kevin Patrick] That's a steamroller from the big Aussie.
Can you imagine if Bronson Reed
was part of the Royal Rumble Match a week from Saturday?
[Corey] Well, if this continues, at this rate,
we're not going to have to do much imagining.
[Kevin Patrick] Just smothering Tozawa.
[Corey] Such a smart strategy.
Utilizing his massive frame and powerful grip
to just squeeze the breath out of Tozawa.
Now, every time Tozawa attempts to breathe in,
the grip of Reed gets a little bit tighter, constricting Tozawa.
[Kevin Patrick] Resiliency on show from Akira Tozawa as he fights back,
but Bronson Reed responds.
[Corey] Tozawa able to maintain his balance.
Listen, one thing we do know about Tozawa
is his strikes can be downright lethal.
The right one can turn your lights out no matter how big you are.
-[Kevin Patrick] Look at Akira Tozawa go! -[Corey] Wow!
[Kevin Patrick] The stamina on show.
[Corey] Tozawa with a dropkick.
As the big man staggered on the outside, Tozawa's got to push the pace.
Here he comes.
[Kevin Patrick] He's got ideas. Outside the ring he goes.
[Tozawa screams triumphantly]
[Corey] Tozawa all fired up right now.
Bringing the fight to the big man. I like this.
But you got to focus on the task at hand.
[Kevin Patrick] Tozawa now, from the apron.
Oh, he's caught, he's caught.
[Corey] No, he didn't.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh… Oh!
Oh, my God.
[Corey] That is terrifying power.
[Kevin Patrick] As frightening as it gets.
[Corey] Some Blumhouse stuff right there, my friend.
Bronson Reed.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
[Corey] Get a shovel.
Someone's gotta scrape what's left of Tozawa off the ground.
This is--
This is ugly. This is fun. I don't--
[Kevin Patrick] Not for Akira Tozawa.
[Corey] So many things right now.
With all due respect to my good friend, Wade,
on Friday nights.
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh, come on. -[Corey] Tsunami.
[Kevin Patrick] That's got to do it for Bronson Reed.
-[bell ringing] -Man, what an impact.
["Battle Tested" playing]
[Rome] Here is your winner, Bronson Reed.
[Corey] Look at this.
This is the opening maneuver of the contest,
and it just got worse for Tozawa.
[Kevin Patrick] As you mentioned, not all size.
He's fast, he's creative.
[Corey] Called that a steamroller?
How about this?
After that, at this point, Tozawa, just stay down.
A shoulder tackle from the apron,
and capped off with a Tsunami.
That is not a splash, that is a natural disaster.
[Kevin Patrick] Statement made from the watching world
as they all look at Bronson Reed
and the impact he's had tonight on Raw.
♪ Made it through the fire Now we′re here to wreck it ♪
Please welcome Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[screams enthusiastically]
Just when I think I'm out,
the United States Title, it pulls me back in, Saxton.
I had my eyes set, I had my mind made up.
I was going to the Royal Rumble, to WrestleMania.
Then the WWE officials, they called me.
They said, "Sethy, it's Monday night, it's the main event."
"We need you, we need you, we need you. Are you in?"
I said, hey, hey, hey.
We are in Cincinnati, baby.
The town that loves to party.
The town that loves to sing,
so of course I'm in.
So old plan out, new plan in. Are you ready?
Are you ready? Tonight, I win the Six-Pack Challenge.
Next week, Raw 30,
I take back my United States Championship.
I go on to San Antonio, win the Royal Rumble,
and then take it all the way to the main event of WrestleMania,
where I kick Roman Reigns' ass like only I can!
In the immortal words of the great Freddie Mercury,
I want it all,
and I want it now.
[cackles]
[Kevin Patrick] Well, The Visionary has outlined his path forward.
If there's one Superstar Austin Theory may want to avoid next week
when he's defending his United States Championship,
it might just be Seth "Freakin" Rollins,
the visionary who's been manipulating the mind
of the man he calls "kid."
Our six-way elimination match is next.
You're very welcome back, folks.
Corey Graves. I am so excited and I know you are too.
Raw 30. We're celebrating the 30th anniversary of Monday Night Raw
in the City of Brotherly Love next week.
It is going to be enormous, KP.
[Kevin Patrick] It certainly is. On tap next week from Philadelphia,
we've got the Steel Cage Match that Becky Lynch went and asked for.
This has now been made official.
Becky Lynch, Bayley, two of the best to ever do it, inside a steel cage.
[Corey] And it will be a family affair in the City of Brotherly Love.
They are as deep as they are dangerous.
We will witness The Bloodline acknowledgment ceremony
I promise you won't forget.
[Kevin Patrick] The Judgment Day won a Tag Team Turmoil last week,
and they won a ticket to take on The Usos
for the Raw Tag Team Championships next Monday.
[Corey] And, of course, anything worth celebrating
is worth celebrating big,
so we are bringing out the legends.
Look at this star-studded line up.
Hall of Famers galore.
The Nature Boy, woooo!
The Deadman is here,
Kurt Angle. I cannot wait.
[Kevin Patrick] Me neither.
Austin Theory is putting his United States Championship
on the line next week.
Who will he face?
Well, we're about to find out
right now in a six-way elimination match.
♪ Burn it down! ♪
[flame whooshes]
["Visionary" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following is a six-way elimination match.
Introducing first, from Davenport, Iowa, weighing 225 lbs,
Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Corey] One of the things that makes Rollins such an effective
elite-level Superstar is his ability to multitask.
We know Rollins has his sights set
on the men's Royal Rumble Match.
We know Seth "Freakin" Rollins is looking down The Road to WrestleMania,
to a main event,
potentially challenging The Head of the Table.
But tonight, Rollins is about earning one more opportunity
to recapture his coveted United States Championship.
[Kevin Patrick] A two-time WWE Grand Slam champion
that's in Cincinnati tonight to claim his prize,
and a chance to take on the man he calls "kid," Austin Theory.
["I Am Danger" playing]
[Rome] Next, representing The Judgment Day,
Finn Bálor.
[Corey] Here comes an old familiar foe of one Seth "Freakin" Rollins,
Finn Bálor.
Remember it was Bálor, Rollins
to crown the first-ever Universal Champion in WWE.
A battle that Bálor emerged victorious from,
and that has still, to this day, eaten at Seth Rollins.
It's one blemish
that Rollins just can't leave in the rearview mirror.
[Kevin Patrick] You cannot
look at Finn Bálor without noticing the taped ribs
crushed by Otis last week in Tag Team Turmoil.
You wonder about the condition of Finn Bálor here tonight.
[Corey] Certainly a gutsy effort from Bálor just to be here.
[Rome] Residing in Hollywood, California, weighing 221 lbs,
The Miz!
[Corey] That is why I don't talk about Mike Rome,
because he steps on me while I'm saying important stuff.
Like how awesome The A-Lister is.
Could you imagine The Miz once again as United States Champion?
What an amazing situation that would be,
not only for WWE, but our nation as well, KP.
[Kevin Patrick] So three down, three to go.
[Rome] Residing in Hollywood, Florida, weighing 218 lbs,
Dolph Ziggler!
[Kevin Patrick] You mentioned the 15 championships
that Dolph Ziggler has held in WWE earlier.
You think about the career that this man has had,
and to get back to the mountaintop
here in Royal Rumble season.
["Get Ready" playing]
Next, accompanied to the ring by WWE Hall of Famer JBL,
weighing 285 lbs,
Baron Corbin.
[Corey] Listen, KP.
-I come out here week after week… -[firework explodes]
…and I gush about Baron Corbin being a modern-day wrestling god.
Here's a hot take for you.
The onus is on Corbin tonight to put up or shut up.
I'm not saying for good,
but Corbin hasn't exactly had a stellar track record recently,
even under the tutelage of a Hall of Famer in JBL
Corbin needs to shut up all the haters,
all the doubters, all the naysayers
with a hell of a win tonight.
[Kevin Patrick] To do so, though, he's going to have to get past
The All Mighty.
["All Mighty" playing]
[fireworks whistling]
[Rome] And making his way to the ring,
"The All Mighty"
Bobby Lashley!
[Corey] Tonight, The All Mighty making his way to the ring,
all business.
Bobby Lashley has made his intention known on multiple occasions.
He wants back
what he believe he should've never lost in the first place,
the United States Championship.
[Kevin Patrick] Being at ringside, it's hard to ignore the feeling shift
when Bobby Lashley appears in the arena.
The gigantic physique of The All Mighty.
[Corey] It's beyond the physique, it's beyond the physical attributes.
Wait a second.
Wait just a minute.
We can't have this party without the champ.
["A-Town Down" playing]
[Corey] The youngest United States Champion
in WWE history, two times over.
[Corey] He ain't no kid anymore.
He is The Now, and we are all enjoying it together.
[Kevin Patrick] The so-called forever reign of Austin Theory.
-[bell ringing] -We'll see next week.
And who is going to challenge Austin Theory next week
for the United States Championship?
Our six-way elimination match has kicked off already.
[Corey] Who will head to Raw 30?
[Kevin Patrick] Absolute carnage, Corey.
[Corey] To the surprise of absolutely no one,
this thing has spilled all over the arena.
We've got Rollins and Bálor in the ring. Ziggler and Miz.
Not the money maker, Ziggs.
We got Corbin and Lashley on the far side of the ring.
This thing is breaking down in a hurry, but above all,
how about the fact that we have been graced
at our desk by The Now,
the United States Champion, Austin Theory? Welcome, champ.
[Theory] It feels so great to watch
all of these men fight for my championship.
Look at 'em.
[Corey] It has to make you feel good.
We got six elite-level Superstars battling
just for the chance to challenge you, champ.
Just for the chance.
Just for the dream of being United States champion.
[Theory] All these men, they have big dreams,
but the problem is they will never reach those dreams
[Corey] Oh, my goodness.
[Theory] Because Austin Theory is The Now.
And they're all realizing that
because everybody that I'm looking at is just the past.
Look at all these guys.
I feel like I grew up watching all of them.
It's hilarious.
[Kevin Patrick] It is six former Superstars,
former United States Champions
looking for the opportunity to take on you, Austin Theory,
to be that number-one contender for the United States Championship
next week at Raw 30.
Elimination by pinfall or submission.
Last man standing. Let's see who it's going to be.
-Do you have any preference, Mr. Theory? -[Theory] Do I have a preference?
It doesn't matter to me, but you know what?
Somebody that stands out to me is Bobby Lashley.
He wanted to ruin last week for me.
[Corey] Rollins perched up top.
Oh, my goodness.
[Theory] That's what I love.
Look at Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
He thinks he knows everything, and that's what he deserves.
[Corey] How many times have you defeated Seth "Freakin" Rollins?
[Theory] Uh, let me see.
It's too many times to count, man. Too many times.
[Corey] That's why we have statisticians, KP.
Too many times to count.
[Kevin Patrick] Ooh, three Superstars now up toward the top rope
as Finn Bálor climbs.
[Theory] I love how great this is.
Just to see all of these guys trying so hard
to be on my level.
They're trying so hard.
[Corey] You're an inspirational champion.
I wish I could age in reverse.
I would set my goals to be like Austin Theory.
[Kevin Patrick] Look at what we're seeing from Bobby Lashley. You're kidding me.
Oh, my…
[Corey splutters] Champ, that--
That could've been fun to watch, right?
I mean, that's the exception to the rule.
Bobby Lashley just powerbombed three full-grown Superstars
into one painful heap.
[Kevin Patrick] The All Mighty has his eyes on Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
Looking for the Spear.
Miz now.
[Corey] Watch out from behind. Ziggler looking for the Zig Zag.
Shrugged off, but--
Oh, no.
Miz was looking for the Skull-Crushing Finale.
The All Mighty too strong.
Dolph with a Famouser.
[Kevin Patrick] Lashley's face-first into the canvas.
Hang on. Skull-Crushing…
As Miz looks to put away Bobby Lashley. Hooks the leg.
Kick-out from The All Mighty.
Elimination by pinfall or submission.
There are no countouts or disqualifications.
That's why we seen bodies everywhere so far.
Bedlam here.
[Corey] Listen, champ. We know you can hold your own,
and most likely defeat any of these guys.
Who would you, as United States Champion, like to test yourself against?
Who would you like to see
to have the WWE Universe watch you dominate?
[Theory] I'm going to be honest with you, Corey.
I don't think any of these men deserve to be in the ring with me.
-[Corey] Wow. None of them? -[Theory] None.
[Corey] Not even…
I mean, I know you--
[Kevin Patrick] Wait a second. The Miz is stacking up Dolph Ziggler.
Ziggler kicks out just in time.
Big boot from The Miz.
[Theory] I've been on Miz TV with The Miz and he's got some good advice.
I'll give him that.
Then we look at Dolph Ziggler.
Dolph Ziggler's the past.
I've put Dolph Ziggler down how many times?
I don't-- I can't even count.
[Kevin Patrick] Finn Bálor catching The Miz.
Stacking him up now.
That's another one.
[Corey] I get it. It's like Dolph is the then.
[Kevin Patrick] Look at the ribs crushing here.
-[Corey] You are the now. -[Theory] Yeah.
[Corey] And you're the forever.
[Theory] That's it. That simple.
[Corey] Like the beginning of the show. You are the embodiment of WWE.
I love it, Theory.
[Theory] Corey, you're the only one that understands.
[Kevin Patrick] I admire your confidence
looking at these former champions in the ring
as Dolph Ziggler and The Miz go at it.
[Corey] The Miz executing the Figure Four Leglock.
-Ziggler trying his best to hang on. -[Ziggler screams in pain]
[Corey] You know Naitch is watching. He's got to be loving this.
Going to see Naitch next week in Philadelphia. I can't wait.
[Kevin Patrick] You won't be intimidated in any way
by all the legends that will be in attendance at Raw 30?
Are you trying to make me nervous?
Is that what you're trying to do? Because you can't.
I'm on a level that anybody at 25 years old couldn't handle.
[Corey] Too many abs to be nervous.
[Theory] Too many abs. Make sure you get these abs.
[Corey] Oh, it's reversed.
Ziggler reversed the pressure. Miz is in trouble now.
Stomp.
Stomped all over to Miz.
[crowd] One, two, three.
[Rome] The Miz has been eliminated.
[Kevin Patrick] Who is going to be the number-one contender
for Theory's United States Championship?
[Corey] We're down to five.
[Kevin Patrick] The stakes, absolutely enormous
in tonight's main event, a six-way elimination match
to be number-one contender
for Austin Theory's United States Championship.
We're down to five.
The Miz has been eliminated already.
Austin Theory joining Corey Graves, and me, Kevin Patrick, at ringside.
[Corey] You mean to say gracing our announce table
with his expertise as the reigning United States Champion, right, Kevin?
[Kevin Patrick] My apologies.
[Theory] Don't apologize to me. you should have thought about that.
[Corey] Right now, a little teamwork from Bálor and Corbin.
[Theory] Oh.
[Kevin Patrick] There's Lashley.
Ready to feast on Corbin.
[Corey] Oh, my God.
Bobby Lashley has Corbin up across his shoulders.
Finn just came to the aid of Lashley.
Sometimes, in an environment like this, you have to work together.
And Austin, I've got to ask you.
Baron Corbin, a former United States Champion.
You've got to be impressed with what you've seen from him thus far.
[Theory] You know what, Baron Corbin is a wrestling god.
I mean, he's amazing.
He has JBL with him, just literally mentoring him,
but think about that. A wrestling god.
You know, how does it feel to beat a wrestling god?
Hmm, maybe I'll know pretty soon if--
[Kevin Patrick] Seth Rollins from the outside, taking out Finn Bálor.
The Prince was flattened by The Visionary.
[Corey] I didn't need that anyway.
[Theory] Yeah, who cares?
Yeah, who cares, huh?
[Corey] Whoa!
A blatant show of disrespect by Rollins to the champion,
but Rollins may have to pay for it.
Fights his way out of Bálor's grasp, connected with an overhead kick.
Someone get the champ a towel.
[Kevin Patrick] Theory is absolutely irate.
But look inside the ring. Baron Corbin has Theory,
excuse me, Rollins, and Rollins delivers.
[Corey] Ziggler and Rollins now teaming up.
[Kevin Patrick] An alliance between Ziggler and Rollins
against "Big" Baron Corbin.
[Corey] This is absolutely disrespect. I'm going to towel off the champ. He--
There we go.
Rollins and Ziggler.
Two veterans of the game.
Certainly, mutual respect for one another,
but respect can go right out the window when there's gold at stake.
[Kevin Patrick] A little chat between them,
and they go after Finn Bálor and Baron Corbin.
[Corey] Sometimes, an elimination match like this
is going to necessitate some strange bedfellows.
Usually, temporarily,
because technically, it's every man for himself.
[Kevin Patrick] Look at this.
Dolph Ziggler to put away Rollins, who kicks out.
Rollins, his turn now on Dolph Ziggler.
Once more, a kick-out.
[Corey] Rollins avoiding a superkick
and took out Lashley and Corbin on the outside.
[Kevin Patrick] Ziggler, face-first into the turnbuckle.
Bálor has ideas.
Taking flight.
Four bodies outside the ring. Dolph Ziggler inside
and the United States Champion next to us is absolutely furious.
[Corey] Understandably so.
Theory was out here as an observer.
Where does Dolph think he's going?
Oh, Ziggs.
[Kevin Patrick] The devastating impact.
Ziggler said, "Why the hell not?"
[Corey] Everybody's down.
This match-up can go any man's way.
Take a look at this.
Dolph Ziggler taking an uncharacteristic super-high risk
and it paid off for the moment.
[Kevin Patrick] High risk, but it is high stakes here tonight.
A six-way elimination match to be number-one contender
for Austin Theory's United States Championship.
A match that will take place next week on Raw 30.
[Corey] Philadelphia, Wells Fargo Center will be rocking.
Cannot wait to celebrate, and neither can Baron Corbin.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
-[Corey] Superkick. -[Kevin Patrick] Connects with Corbin.
Ziggler's been flying here tonight. He rattles Bobby Lashley.
[Corey] Zig Zag.
[Kevin Patrick] Is this the moment?
Bálor also taken out by Ziggler.
Rollins wants Pedigree.
[Corey] Nailed it.
[crowd] One, two, three.
[Kevin Patrick] Ziggler's gone.
[Rome] Dolph Ziggler has been eliminated.
[Corey] Four men remain.
[Kevin Patrick] You're witnessing one hellacious battle.
It's a six-way elimination match
to be number-one contender
for Austin Theory's United States Championship.
A match that will take place next week at Raw 30 in Philadelphia.
Elimination by pinfall or submission.
We've already seen The Miz and Dolph Ziggler sent packing.
Four Superstars remain.
[Corey] Despite a blatant display of disrespect by Seth "Freakin" Rollins,
the current United States Champion, The Forever Champ,
is here at ringside.
He was on commentary,
but Austin Theory still keeping a close eye on the proceedings.
And Corbin taking Bálor down. Deep Six.
[Kevin Patrick] Hook of the leg. Corbin to put away Finn Bálor--
Kicks out. Bálor is still alive.
[Corey] Corbin now just raining down heavy right hands.
The former Golden Gloves champion could punch holes in happiness.
Oh, man, just ask Rollins.
[Kevin Patrick] Ferocious rights unloading on Seth Rollins.
[Corbin] Come on! Huh?
[Corey] You don't want to ignite the fire inside of Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Kevin Patrick] Sending Seth Rollins to the outside on the apron.
Elbow to Corbin.
[Corey] Oh, baby.
[Corey] Mr. Rollins, you can pick up your incisors in section 212.
Oh, how about this showdown?
[Kevin Patrick] Two massive fellas in Bobby Lashley and Baron Corbin.
[Corey] Lashley getting the best of this exchange.
Not too many people can outbox Baron Corbin.
Not too many men can overpower Corbin.
The All Mighty can do both.
[grunting]
[Kevin Patrick] Crushing the midsection of Corbin.
[Corey] Down goes the modern-day wrestling god.
[Kevin Patrick] Neckbreaker, but he's back up and sent to the outside.
That, of course, would have been an elimination at the Rumble.
[Corey] Bálor tried to take an advantage from behind.
Lashley sensed Finn coming and--
Oh, no. Oh, no.
[Kevin Patrick] You can say that again.
Lashley… spikes both Rollins and Bálor.
[Corey] Kick to the gut. Lashley hoisting up Rollins.
Down goes The Visionary.
[Kevin Patrick] Is this the moment for Lashley to put away Seth Rollins?
No, it's not. He kicks out.
Look of nerves perhaps on the face--
[Corey] I've never seen anyone as confident as Austin Theory is right now.
Theory's so confident, I may go pick a fight with Dominik.
That's how much I'm feeling it.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, my God, look at the power.
[Corey] I'm so wound up, I'm sorry I won't.
[Kevin Patrick] The strength on show from Bobby Lashley.
Got to be crushing the hurt ribs of Finn Bálor.
[Corey] Bobby Lashley thinking about the Hurt Lock.
If it's cinched in, it is good night, Finn.
Oh, dear.
Of all the things we could prepare for tonight.
A 7'3", 400-lb Nigerian Giant
was not one of them.
[Kevin Patrick] Accompanied by MVP, and look at Corbin.
[Corey] Wow, Lashley must have been distracted badly by Omos.
Corbin blew right by The All Mighty
and now the modern-day wrestling god
looking to punch his ticket to Filth-adelphia.
[Rollins screams]
[Kevin Patrick] Rollins to the outside with Corbin.
Lashley totally distracted by MVP and Omos.
[Corey] Look, this is a great strategy.
You can let the other Superstars take care of one another,
take each other out.
It's all about energy conservation.
But now, Bálor making the climb to the top.
Coup de Grace.
[commentators] Stomp.
[Corey] Finn is out.
[Kevin Patrick] Rollins to put him away.
[Rome] Finn Bálor has been eliminated.
[Corey] And Rollins one step ahead.
That's two Stomps delivered by The Visionary,
and two steps closer to another crack at The Now.
[Kevin Patrick] We are down to three Superstars.
Finn Bálor, The Miz, Dolph Ziggler have all been eliminated.
Last man standing is the name of the game.
[crowd vocalizing]
[Corey] There are three Superstars remaining.
Rollins and Lashley, whom Theory knows extremely well,
and the modern-day wrestling god.
Oh.
[Kevin Patrick] Corbin wise to it. Drags Rollins to the outside.
[Corey] Hey, listen, I like Baron Corbin's chances…
Oh!
…as the one who could challenge Austin Theory.
Because Corbin has the element of surprise.
Theory has been embarking-- Oh, no. Oh, no.
[Kevin Patrick] Omos getting involved.
Rollins all across the announce desk.
[crowd booing]
[Corey] Rollins has been eliminated from the equation for the moment,
but remember, it's got to be
pinfall or submission,
and Baron Corbin does not look up
at many people on Earth…
-…and he just-- oh. -[Kevin Patrick] Spear.
Lashley taking out Corbin.
[crowd] One, two, three.
[Rome] Baron Corbin has been eliminated.
[Corey] Corbin took half a second too long staring in awe at The Nigerian Giant.
[Kevin Patrick] And it all comes down to this.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins and Bobby Lashley, the final two Superstars remaining.
[Corey] What about Omos?
-I mean, Omos-- -Don't just stare.
[commentators] Oh!
[Corey] Theory with the title.
[Theory] You see that? You see that?
Yes, that's how it works, baby.
[Corey] Lashley's down, go.
[Kevin Patrick] The big paws of Omos
all over the United States Champion, Austin Theory.
[Corey] Wow, great counter by the champ.
Stomp.
Seth.
Rollins just took out Theory.
Lashley is down.
The Nigerian Giant has been stomped into our announce desk.
[Corey] Rollins, this is your chance.
[Kevin Patrick] He's wreaking havoc, Seth Rollins.
He's got his eyes on Bobby Lashley.
Superkick to MVP.
[Corey] MVP is down.
[Kevin Patrick] Here's the moment. Spear. Lashley on Rollins.
Bobby Lashley to take it.
[bell ringing]
["All Mighty" playing]
[Rome] Here is your winner,
The All Mighty
Bobby Lashley.
[Corey] And then there was The All Mighty.
[Corey] What a battle by Bobby Lashley,
who will head to Philadelphia
at the 30th anniversary of Monday Night Raw
to attempt to regain
the United States Championship.
[Kevin Patrick] And this is how Bobby Lashley got it done.
Omos with the intervention, Rollins was on a roll at this point.
[Corey] Seth Rollins saw daylight.
The window was closing.
Rollins took an extra shot for good measure at the champ,
but as Seth looked to seal the deal,
The All Mighty decided
tonight belonged to him.
[Kevin Patrick] And it all comes down to this,
on a monumental night for Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] But it's more than just the United States Championship.
It's the 30th anniversary of Raw,
and we will witness to The Bloodline acknowledgment ceremony.
[Kevin Patrick] And the Usos of The Bloodline,
the Steel Cage Match first with Becky Lynch.
She wanted a Steel Cage Match.
No IYO and Dakota by Bayley's side.
[Corey] But the Tag Titles are on the line,
the United States Title is on the line.
We'll see you in Philly.
We're turning 30. hilly.