[intro music playing]
[John Cena] Then.
[Ric Flair] Woooo!
-[glass shattering] -[The Rock] If you smell…
-[bell tolling] -[Cena] Now.
[Roman Reigns] Acknowledge me.
-[Triple H] The king of kings… -[Cena] You can't see me…
[Cena] Forever.
Together.
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] We're live tonight from the sold-out Allstate Arena
in Chicago, Illinois,
with global sensation Bad Bunny in the house and Draft Week upon us.
This truly is a blockbuster episode of Monday Night Raw.
["Kingdom" playing]
♪ Wrestling has more Than one royal family ♪
♪ Adrenaline in my soul ♪
♪ Every thought out of control ♪
♪ Do it all to get them off their feet ♪
♪ Crowd is here, about to blow ♪
♪ Waitin' for me to start the show ♪
♪ Out the curtain Lights go up, I'm home ♪
♪ Whoa ♪
[fireworks popping]
♪ And my father said When I was younger… ♪
[Rome] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
"The American Nightmare"
Cody Rhodes.
[Corey] A deafening ovation tonight in Chicago for The American Nightmare.
[Kevin Patrick] Chicago showing their appreciation
for the man that hopes to slay The Beast Incarnate
at WWE Backlash.
[Corey] We can't forget, it was within this very building
that Cody Rhodes provided one of the most remarkable displays of grit and toughness
we have ever seen in this business.
And Cody is going to need to be tough at Backlash.
[Kevin Patrick] Can he channel that energy, that resolve another time
when he goes one-on-one with The Beast Incarnate,
who truly did slay Cody Rhodes a couple of weeks ago?
Cody's response is not long away now.
One week from Saturday at Backlash, hosted by Bad Bunny.
[Corey] We're talking about Brock Lesnar, the most decorated combat athlete
in history.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Cody! Cody! Cody!
[singsong] So, Chicago…
[crowd cheering]
[in normal voice] What do you guys want to talk about?
[crowd cheering]
We could talk about the WWE Draft
that is mere days away, shaking up both rosters.
I could end up on Friday Night SmackDown
or I could say right here… on Monday Night Raw.
We could talk about the unenviable task I have ahead of me
in slaying "The Beast" Brock Lesnar at Backlash.
The very same… The very same Brock Lesnar
that is the most decorated combat sports athlete of all time,
the most decorated combat sports athlete of all time
which is why it is so ironic that he waited for my back
to be turned to get the jump on me.
Let's take a look at this.
[crowd booing]
[Cody] An incredibly craven and cowardly attack.
Certainly one of, if not the most humiliating beatdowns,
that I have ever received, again, courtesy of "The Beast" Brock Lesnar.
Now, you've seen that. You've seen that.
I want to show you something else.
[crowd cheering]
[imperceptible]
Go ahead and take a look at this scar right here.
It's not lost on me that this is the first time
I am standing in Allstate Arena
since the night I competed with a torn pec at Hell in a Cell.
[crowd cheering]
It is a match that resonated with a lot of people.
It has been given this heroic spin.
I'll be honest with you, I've never watched it back
and there is a reason why.
But Brock Lesnar, if you are at home watching,
and I know you are, pick a spot.
Pick a spot.
Put another scar on me,
because it means you haven't learned the lesson from this one.
This scar right here is the same scar
that I was able to defeat one of the very best to ever do it
right here in this ring inside Hell in a Cell.
[crowd cheering]
And the reason that I don't give it this heroic spin,
that I don't talk about it even though it's the autograph I always sign
is that photo with the bruise and me holding the hammer,
because it's simple. I didn't do anything that night.
What I did was I had a sold-out arena
prop me up on their shoulders…
[crowd cheering]
…and carry me to the finish line,
because, guys, I was in the most pain of my entire life.
I know we have had many milestones, you and I, Chicago,
and we have many more to come.
But if I do not get the chance, if I never got another chance to say it,
I wanted to tell you here and now from the bottom of my heart.
Thank you guys very, very, very much.
-Thank you guys. -[crowd cheering]
["I Am Danger" playing]
[Corey] Unexpected arrival, an interruption
of The American Nightmare, it's Finn Bálor of The Judgment Day.
Cody, Cody, Cody. I hate to break up the party.
I just want to let you know that we all got scars, mate.
[crowd booing]
Hey, but that's not why I'm here. Listen.
I saw what happened to you at WrestleMania.
I saw that you had Roman Reigns beat.
I saw that you got screwed.
And trust me, I know how you feel.
[crowd] What?
But the question is, why did you get screwed?
And the answer is, because there was no one there to have your back.
So I get why you accepted
Brock Lesnar's offer for help
and to be his tag-team partner.
But, Cody, you trusted the wrong man.
You need to be smarter… like me.
Because now you're facing The Beast all beaten and bruised.
And let's face it, Cody. This is a match that you can't win.
[crowd booing]
Not on your own. Not on your own.
Let me just-- Let me stop you.
Obviously, I was under the impression
there was an immense amount of mutual respect here.
I'm not sure if there is.
You keep saying his name, "Brock Lesnar, Brock Lesnar."
That's the only name that's on my mind.
That's the only thing that I am currently focused on.
So, respectfully, whatever you're selling, I'm not buying.
All right?
Cody, if you respect me, you'll hear what I have to say.
Because I know and you know
and they know…
[crowd booing]
…that Cody Rhodes in The Judgment Day would be unstoppable.
[crowd booing]
Think about it. Think about it.
Rhea Ripley, SmackDown Women's Champion.
Damian Priest put the biggest star in the music industry, in the world,
straight through that table.
And Dominik Mysterio…
[crowd booing]
Dominik has already proven that he is far greater
than his legendary father ever was.
Which is perhaps something you should try.
But, hey, you made a mistake at WrestleMania.
Don't make the same mistake at Backlash.
Let us have your back.
[crowd chanting] You suck! You suck! You suck!
It was hard for me to hear you
because they were saying something, and you were saying something,
they were saying something.
I think I heard you.
You want me to be part of The Judgment Day.
What were you guys saying?
[crowd chanting] You suck! You suck! You suck!
Okay. All right. We're all caught up. I heard you guys. I heard you.
Yup, we got it, thank you. Um…
Gosh.
I don't know how else to say it.
I'm definitely not looking to get into another fight here.
Seriously, though, I appreciate it again. You've done a lot for me.
Hey, I respectfully am not going to be joining The Judgment Day.
I must decline.
Sorry.
[crowd cheering]
You know, that's a real pity.
That's a real shame.
Because, Cody, you're either with the The Judgment Day
or you're against The Judgment Day.
I suggest that you watch your own back,
because some day,
I'm going to slap that bleach out your head.
[crowd booing]
Hey, wait. Just…
You gotta know why I'm smiling.
I'm smiling because I believe you're under the impression
that because of the very humiliating beatdown that I suffered
at the hands of Brock Lesnar, an incredibly cowardly beatdown,
I think you're of the impression that I am not medically cleared
to compete here tonight,
because of what happened three weeks ago.
What you don't know is what happened a few hours ago.
A few hours ago, I was cleared medically to compete here tonight.
[crowd cheering]
And I can't think of a better message to send to Brock Lesnar,
to send to The Beast, than you and me, one-on-one, here tonight.
[crowd cheering]
["Kingdom" playing]
[Corey] Cody Rhodes throwing down the gauntlet to Finn Bálor
for a match tonight on Monday Night Raw.
KP, I hope WWE officials make this one happen.
Because we have a hell of a night on tap.
[Kevin Patrick] Yes, we certainly do indeed.
It is loud here in the Allstate Arena.
It's sold out, a brilliant crowd, and it's about to get an awful lot louder.
And here is why.
As alluded to already, Bad Bunny, the multi-diamond recording artist,
returns to Monday Night Raw tonight.
This, after three weeks ago, he was put through the announce desk
by Damian Priest.
Retribution perhaps? Bad Bunny is back tonight.
[Corey] Damian Priest must shift his focus away from Bad Bunny,
because Priest will go one-on-one with newly minted
WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio.
[Kevin Patrick] Folks, listen carefully.
WWE Hall of Famer, "The Game" Triple H,
has a very important, a seismic announcement
here tonight on Monday Night Raw that will rock the foundation of WWE.
[Corey] I cannot wait. People have been speculating all day.
It's gonna be huge.
["Done With That" playing]
♪ Yahoo! ♪
♪ Down since ♪
♪ Day one ish, damn ♪
♪ Down since ♪
♪ Day one ish ♪
♪ We been down since… ♪
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is a Six-Man Tag Team Match
scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first,
the team of Solo Sikoa and Jimmy and Jey,
The Usos.
[Kevin Patrick] Corey, this Friday night on SmackDown, the WWE Draft kicks off.
That's not all.
From Corpus Christi, Texas, it's a WrestleMania main event rematch.
The Usos looking to reclaim the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships
against KO and Sami Zayn.
Tonight, they're hoping to warm up for that match in emphatic fashion.
[Corey] It's going to be a lot more than a warmup.
It's going to be a bona fide test for Solo, Jimmy and Jey of The Bloodline
in big-man Six-Man Tag Team action.
[Kevin Patrick] Last week on Raw, it was The LWO standing over The Bloodline
when it was all said and done.
They're going to meet next on Monday Night Raw, in Six-Man Tag.
[Kevin Patrick] The Draft that starts this Friday on SmackDown
that Triple H said includes everybody, Corey, including The Bloodline.
At WWE Backlash, how will this match take shape
after next Friday's match for the championships,
when The Usos take on Sami Zayn and KO?
At Backlash, one week from Saturday, it's KO, Sami and Matt Riddle
taking on The Bloodline.
["Our World" playing]
[Rome] And their opponents,
Cruz Del Toro, Joaquin Wilde, and Santos Escobar,
The LWO!
[Corey] The LWO looking to turn up the heat tonight in the Second City.
Brand-new entrance music paying homage to the founder of The LWO,
none other than Eddie Guerrero himself.
I've been so impressed recently by The LWO.
The Bloodline could be in for a long night tonight on Raw.
[Kevin Patrick] That's the big question, Corey.
Can The LWO hang with, arguably, the most dominant trio or faction
we've seen in WWE history?
[Corey] We asked the question after the last commercial break
about the WWE Draft that's coming up starting this Friday night on SmackDown,
how could it affect The Bloodline,
how it could affect Jimmy and Jey, The Usos.
It holds true for The LWO.
The Draft could truly shake WWE to its very foundation.
-[bell ringing] -[Kevin Patrick] The LWO consisting
of Santos Escobar, Cruz Del Toro and in the ring, Joaquin Wilde.
Joaquin Wilde now, and Jey Uso to start things off here
in six-man tag on Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] Joaquin Wilde's an individual I've known for nearly 20 years.
Again, in the independent scene, Joaquin is a world-traveled Superstar,
a true student of the game. He's spent a great deal of time
training and honing his skills in Japan, in Mexico, in the lucha libre style.
Joaquin Wilde is an encyclopedia of knowledge about this game.
[Kevin Patrick] Joaquin Wilde in a perilous position.
Picked on by The Usos.
Jimmy and Jey now going to work on Joaquin Wilde.
[Corey] Tag made by Solo on the outside.
Seamless teamwork as you might expect from the trio of brothers
compromising The Bloodline, and The Enforcer of The Bloodline,
Solo Sikoa, has just been absolutely dominant recently.
[Kevin Patrick] Solo Sikoa, man,
flattening Joaquin Wilde.
[Corey] Jimmy and Jey doing what they do best.
Great agility on display by Joaquin Wilde.
On come Del Toro and Escobar taking down Jimmy and Jey.
The LWO standing tall.
[Kevin Patrick] It's a first, an official match on Monday Night Raw
for LWO as they take flight taking down Jimmy and Jey.
[Corey] Look out. Escobar takes out Sikoa.
The LWO standing tall in six-man tag action.
[Kevin Patrick] We're live tonight at the Allstate Arena in Chicago, Illinois.
Six-man tag-- The Bloodline, Solo Sikoa.
[Corey] The Bloodline against the LWO.
I was thinking during the break, KP, for all intents and purposes,
this might be the final time we see these trios
in their current iterations after the Draft.
[Kevin Patrick] This before the commercial break.
LWO taking down Jimmy and Jey on the outside.
Here, Santos Escobar sending Solo Sikoa flying into announce desk.
[Corey] Joaquin Wilde stuns Sikoa for the moment,
but it's going to take a little more than that.
Tornado DDT takes down The Enforcer.
[Kevin Patrick] Joaquin Wilde is flying here,
and you have to think about The Bloodline and all that's on their mind right now
ahead of a championship rematch,
a WrestleMania main event rematch should come on Friday.
Trying to redeem themselves in the eyes of Roman Reigns.
[Corey] You're right about that. It all begins tonight.
Roman will certainly not be happy if The Bloodline fails
to emerge victorious tonight on Raw. Look at Escobar pushing the pace.
Santos back and forth.
[Kevin Patrick] Man, is he quick, Santos Escobar.
[Corey] Solo sent to the outside.
Jimmy Uso thwarts all the momentum Escobar had built to that point.
Ohh! Jumping knee rocks Jimmy Uso.
[Kevin Patrick] Santos Escobar now at pace.
Gathering momentum. Read by Jimmy Uso.
Ohh!
[Corey] Kick rocks Uso. Santos making the climb.
From the top.
[Kevin Patrick] Crossbody to Jimmy Uso, grabs the leg for the victory for The LWO.
And Jimmy Uso kicking out.
[Corey] Take another look at the precision on the kick by Escobar,
followed immediately by a crossbody off the top
that nearly stopped Jimmy Uso and The Bloodline.
[Kevin Patrick] Can you imagine, ahead of the Draft, if Santos Escobar,
Joaquin Wilde, and Cruz Del Toro can pick up a win against The Bloodline?
[commentators exclaim]
[Corey] I can only imagine what it would do to the psyche of The Usos
as they prepare for their tag-title match this Friday night on SmackDown.
Look out, Cruz Del Toro.
[Kevin Patrick] Del Toro now has ideas from the top rope.
Jimmy Uso lying lifeless.
[Corey] Phoenix Splash.
[Kevin Patrick] Goes in for the cover and the win.
Can he get it?
[Corey] And "Main Event" Jey Uso keeps this one alive.
[Kevin Patrick] Santos Escobar to the outside now, just pummeling,
raining down blows on Jey Uso, who turns it around.
[Corey] Joaquin Wilde now pulls Jey to the outside.
Oh, my God.
[Kevin Patrick] Joaquin Wilde just flattened into the apron.
[Corey] Joaquin Wilde's got to feel like Matt Riddle did Friday night on SmackDown,
after being decimated by The Enforcer.
A kick by Del Toro puts Jimmy Uso down in the corner.
[Kevin Patrick] This may be his chance, Cruz Del Toro.
[Corey] Call air traffic control at O'Hare.
Solo drawing the official's attention.
Jey Uso doing the same.
Samoan Spike out of midair.
[Kevin Patrick] Are you kidding me?
[Corey] Buenas noches, Del Toro.
[Kevin Patrick] 1D.
[Corey] One and done. The insurance for The Bloodline.
[bell ringing]
["Done With That" playing]
[Rome] Here are your winners, the team of Solo Sikoa
and The Usos.
[Corey] The Usos and Solo doing their very best
to remain in the good graces of The Tribal Chief.
But it was a hell of a fight because The LWO was on a roll.
A breathtaking Phoenix Splash by Cruz Del Toro,
but here's what changed everything.
[Kevin Patrick] From midair, look at this, Samoan Spike.
Solo Sikoa as ruthless as ever.
[Corey] The Spike may have ended the match in the favor of The Bloodline.
Just to be certain, 1D, one and done.
I don't care how tough you think you are, you're not getting up after that one.
What an effort tonight by The Bloodline.
Hey. Hey.
The longest-reigning tag champs had one bad night.
One bad night.
WrestleMania 39, we lost the Tag Titles.
One bad night.
We let down The Bloodline.
We let down The Tribal Chief, but guess what?
This week on Friday,
it's not going to be a bad day for The Bloodline.
No, no, this week, this Friday, we become nine-time Tag Team Champions.
This week, this Friday, we dedicate this win, we dedicate this W,
we dedicate this victory
to your "Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns.
[mic thuds]
[Corey] If Jimmy and Jey Uso needed any added motivation
before the tag-title match this Friday night on SmackDown,
Roman Reign will provide it.
[Kevin Patrick] This is the biggest tag-team match
in the history of Friday Night SmackDown.
The Usos looking to become nine-time Tag Team Champions
if they can take it back from Sami and KO.
[Corey] It's a WrestleMania main event rematch.
Oh, and by the way, the landscape will change
because the Draft begins Friday night on SmackDown.
Please welcome, my guest at this time, Raw Women's Champion, Bianca Belair.
[crowd cheering]
Now, Bianca, it was just announced that IYO SKY will be your next challenger
for the Raw Women's Championship at Backlash.
Can I get your comments on this announcement?
No, I'm excited.
IYO has proven that she is a worthy competitor.
But like I always say, I stay ready, so I don't have to get ready.
[Bayley cackling]
Oh, yeah.
Well, you better stay ready to count down those days till that title is ours.
You know what I'm talking about?
Well, you know what, Bayley, I haven't held this title for 386 days
-by being scared of a little competition. -Right.
I'm not saying that you're scared of competition,
but you've never been in a championship match with IYO SKY.
She's traveled all over the world and honed her craft.
[speaking Japanese]
[in English] To sum that up, she wants to face you tonight.
Tonight? Tonight? Okay, well, say less, then.
Oh, perfect, perfect.
Because tonight, the three of us feel like beating you up
and whatever two idiots feel like getting beat up along with you.
[cackles]
Okay, well, first of all, I wasn't talking about you.
I was talking about IYO.
But if that's what the three of y'all want to do…
-It sure is. -…then I'll see y'all three tonight.
Great. Awesome. You are a champion of honor. Let's go.
[Dakota] Bye.
[scoffs]
[Kevin Patrick] Little uncertainty there, perhaps, with Damage CTRL.
But there's nothing uncertain about this, that Bad Bunny is in Chicago, Illinois,
and headed to Monday Night Raw tonight with retribution, perhaps, in mind.
[Kevin Patrick] One week from Saturday, we'll be in Puerto Rico for Backlash.
Tonight, WWE is proud to be in Chicago, Illinois.
A sold-out crowd here at the Allstate Arena.
[Corey] We're all awaiting an earth-shattering announcement
from none other than Triple H.
Yeah, we got a W. We handle business like we always do.
Yeah.
Mahi-mahi, though. For real. That's always hot, man--
[crowd exclaiming]
What do you want?
I'm not here for a fight.
We have all the time in the world to fight on Friday.
I heard what you said out there tonight. I heard what you said on Friday too.
You dedicating this match to Roman Reigns, to The Tribal Chief?
Man, we took your Tag Team Titles in the main event of WrestleMania.
You have a chance to get them back now, and you're not even doing it for you?
You're dedicating it for him? You don't think that's a little weird?
Hey, I got news for you, Jey.
We're not losing these Tag Team Championships, okay?
But now, what's going to happen?
What's going to happen if you come up short
now that you've put his name on this match?
What do you think is going to happen to you?
Whatever it is, it's not going to be good.
And you don't deserve that. Okay? You don't deserve that.
Why do you care, bruh? Huh?
Because, all right? Because I feel bad.
Don't feel bad for me, Sami.
On Friday, we're going to take back our Championship Titles, bruh.
Okay? All right?
Don't worry about what's going on over here no more, Sami.
'Cause you made your choice.
And like it or not, I made my choice too.
Choices have consequences.
We'll find out Friday night on SmackDown who made the right choice.
It seems Sami has an obligation,
nearly loyalty to Jey Uso right now.
Loyalty, something WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus turned her back on
right here on Monday Night Raw.
[Trish laughing]
[Trish] When I first came to the WWE, women's wrestling was a joke.
And I proceeded to single-handedly change everything.
But you wouldn't believe that if you listened to Becky Lynch.
Call yourself The Man, brag about your accomplishments,
and not once did she say,
"Thank you, Trish. Thank you for opening the door for me."
[Cole] No!
[Trish] I wasn't about to let Becky Lynch or any of you rewrite history.
I was the Women's Division. I was the trailblazer.
I was the first woman to main-event Raw.
Without me, there would be no Women's Revolution,
and certainly no women in the main event of WrestleMania.
Becky convinced even Lita, dancing down the aisle
as Becky's little sidekick.
Trish Stratus is nobody's sidekick.
And it was getting a little sad, even a little embarrassing,
so I had to take Lita out of the picture.
[Becky Lynch] Hey, hey, hey!
Go get me a doctor! Somebody get me a doctor!
[Trish] Because I needed it to be crystal clear
that the person who screwed Becky Lynch out of her titles was me.
[crowd jeering]
I am not a nostalgia act.
I am not your childhood fantasy, and I sure as hell am nobody's sidekick.
I am the greatest of all time,
and I am the single most important figure in the history of WWE.
I'm here to make sure none of you forget it.
[crowd booing]
My guest at this time, WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus.
[crowd cheering]
Now, Trish, Becky Lynch has been absent from Monday Night Raw
the past couple weeks.
Can you give any insight into why Becky isn't here?
Why she's not here? Oh. Oh, you don't know, though.
I have a little, uh… little secret.
Yeah, you see, Becky Lynch is not doing so good.
She confided in me. She got real close to me.
She opened up, and she told me she's having a hard time
with the pressure of being the top of the Women's Division,
being The Man and being a mom.
She said, "It's been too much for me."
Listen, I understand because I'm a mom as well,
and I have two children and a plethora of other things.
But I'm thriving.
Becky, not so much.
You know, I'd watch her and I'd see her cracking.
I could see the pressure crumbling,
and I just decided I had to take her out of her misery.
Really, what she needs to be doing is sitting at home and saying,
"Thank you, Trish."
[crowd booing]
Thank you for your time. Thank you, Trish.
You see, you get it.
["Bring the Swag" playing]
[Corey] I get it. Thank you, Trish.
[Kevin Patrick] Chicago getting ready to welcome some of their own here
on Monday Night Raw.
♪ I bring the swag like nobody can Don't mean to brag… ♪
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is a tag-team match scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins, The Street Profits.
[Kevin Patrick] The Street Profits bringing the party to the Windy City.
And with the WWE Draft just days away,
the tension is palpable here in the arena and backstage.
Montez Ford, Angelo Dawkins out to make a statement tonight.
It's tag-team action coming your way from Chicago
as The Street Profits take on Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander.
[Corey] This could be the last time we see The Street Profits as a tag team.
[Kevin Patrick] Backlash is presented by the Xfinity 10G network.
Get a reliable connection
and the fastest Internet on the next-generation 10G network
only from Xfinity, the future starts now,
and by Mike's Harder Lemonade,
lemonade that hits harder for Mikes that go harder.
The world needs more Mike's.
[Corey] We're set for a tag-team action
with two sets of former Tag Team Champions,
The Street Profits
against Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander.
[Corey] And, KP, with the Draft looming, this match is of the utmost importance.
[Kevin Patrick] Shelton Benjamin's aware with that start.
Look at Montez Ford now.
[Corey] I mentioned it before the commercial break,
this could very well be the last time we see both of these teams
in their current iterations.
What happens if Montez Ford gets drafted to SmackDown
and Angelo Dawkins stays here on Raw?
[Kevin Patrick] The tag was made. You can understand backstage the nerves,
but also the excitement from all the WWE stars.
[Corey] Michinoku driver. Cover by Alexander now.
[Kevin Patrick] Hooks the leg now. Cedric--
[Corey] If you're Shelton and Cedric, you look at this
as an opportunity, as a tag team and individually,
to raise your own Draft stock.
You want your name to be at the top of the Draft boards
because it means more opportunities, potentially more money,
and it changes scenery, which has changed careers.
[Kevin Patrick] Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander,
former Raw Tag Team Champions.
The Street Profits, Triple Crown Tag Team Champions.
Oh, man. Step-up enzuigiri from Montez Ford.
[Corey] Montez desperately needs to make a tag to Angelo Dawkins,
who is all too eager to join the fray.
[Kevin Patrick] The Chicago native Ford makes the tag to Dawkins.
[Corey] Tag is made on both sides.
Cedric Alexander, he's bounced around by Dawkins,
but just stopped Angelo's momentum.
[Kevin Patrick] The athleticism on show, and Dawkins taking down Cedric.
We had a chance to talk all about the WWE Draft on After the Bell,
our WWE podcast, this week.
[Corey] Dawkins with a silencer.
[Kevin Patrick] Angelo Dawkins now grabs that leg for that victory for The Profits.
Shelton Benjamin having his say.
[Corey] When we talk about how it will alter the landscape of WWE,
we mean that in a very literal sense.
Let's look at a team like The Street Profits.
Oh, good night, Shelton!
Dawkins and Ford-- Wait, from behind.
[Kevin Patrick] Cedric Alexander and a kick-out by Angelo Dawkins. Ohh!
[Corey] Dawkins and Ford are a tag team in every sense of the word.
They travel together, they train together. They look to make history together.
[Kevin Patrick] From the top rope, frog splash.
[Corey] That was from the heavens, my friend.
[bell ringing]
["Bring the Swag" playing]
[Rome] Here are your winners, The Street Profits!
[Corey] It feels awkward to speak about,
but that may have been the last tag-team match
The Profits have together, as we look again
at the breathtaking sight of Montez Ford soaring through the skies of Chicago
to topple Alexander and Benjamin.
[Kevin Patrick] He was singing at Wrigley Field yesterday.
He's picking up the victories today on Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] We know that the Draft will shake WWE to its core
just like this announcement.
The speculation has been rampant. The rumor mill is working overtime.
What is the announcement? Triple H is here. We find out next.
["King of Kings" playing]
♪ Behold the King ♪
♪ The King of Kings ♪
♪ On your knees, dog ♪
♪ All hail ♪
♪ Bow down to the ♪
♪ Bow down to the King ♪
♪ Bow down to the ♪
♪ Bow down to the King ♪
[Rome] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome WWE Hall of Famer,
"The Game"
Triple H.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] What an ovation for the arrival of Triple H,
as we prepare for an announcement
that will rock WWE to its very foundation.
There has been speculation running rampant all day long.
Social media has been set ablaze. We are moments away.
Judging from the smirk on The Game's face,
this is going to be good news for the WWE Universe.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Triple H! Triple H! Triple H
As a WWE Superstar, I had the incredible privilege
of competing at the highest level for all of you.
I had the incredible privilege
of standing in this ring, in this very arena at WrestleMania 22…
defending the WWE Championship against one of the greatest of all time,
John Cena.
Now I have the incredible privilege
of ensuring that WWE is all that it can be for generations going forward.
That is why I'm out here tonight to talk about Roman Reigns…
the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion,
who is coming up on 1,000 days as champion.
A thousand days as champion. It is incredible.
It is unheard of in the modern era.
He has defended that championship against everybody.
A who's who of Superstars.
I can say that after seeing them all for 30 years,
I can't name too many
that would be able to hang in this ring with Roman Reigns.
He is that damn good.
[mixed boos and cheers]
Along the way, in that thousand days, Roman Reigns did something very smart.
Something I would have done, something any intelligent Superstar
would have done.
He negotiated himself into a position
where he didn't have to defend that championship as frequently.
[crowd booing]
I don't blame Roman for that.
And while that is great for Roman Reigns, it is not great for WWE.
WWE deserves more. You deserve more.
[crowd cheering]
You need more than that.
And that is why a few weeks ago, when I talked about the WWE Draft,
I said that the Draft would change WWE at its very core.
Because when Roman Reigns gets drafted to whatever brand he gets drafted to,
he will take the WWE Undisputed Universal Championship
with him.
He will stay there.
The other brand will determine a new champion.
[crowd cheering]
On Saturday, May 27th, at Night of Champions,
we will crown a new World Heavyweight Champion.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Yes! Yes! Yes!
This will be a champion you can be proud of.
This will be a champion you can respect, that you can admire.
This will be a champion that will defend this championship
anywhere, any place, anytime all over the world.
This champion
will not have to demand your acknowledgment.
This champion will earn your acknowledgment
and will earn the title of World Heavyweight Champion.
Thank you.
["King of Kings" playing]
[Corey] Game-changing indeed.
My goodness, look at that stunning championship title.
Triple H promised an announcement that would shake WWE to its foundation.
And, boy, did The Game deliver. Night of Champions.
A new World Heavyweight Champion. This is awesome.
Can you imagine the buzz backstage as well with every Superstar
wanting to become the new World Heavyweight Champion?
Man, this is exciting.
Opportunity is the name of the game. WWE will never look the same.
And what a moment, man. I'm all fired up right now.
Wonderful news here from "The Game" Triple H.
Folks, let's go back now, Corey,
three weeks, to the Raw after WrestleMania.
The hottest global superstar today.
Bad Bunny was a guest of WWE at the Raw after WrestleMania.
A lifelong WWE fan enjoying the moment until it went very south
with a confrontation with The Judgment Day.
You didn't need to get involved, bruh.
[Corey] The man who Bad Bunny once considered a friend
and a tag-team partner at WrestleMania, Damian Priest,
would betray the biggest star in the music business
and drive Bad Bunny through our announce table
in an absolutely unforgivable scene.
I am standing by hoping to get in a word with Damian Priest of Judgment Day.
Excuse me. Damian.
Am I invisible? Damian, am I invisible?
-No-- -Hey, Dom, am I invisible?
I can see you.
You got to get ready anyway,
so let us take care of this and go take it easy. All right?
What's up?
Damian, after choke-slamming Bad Bunny through an announced desk two weeks ago,
can I get your reaction at knowing that Bad Bunny is here tonight in Chicago?
It's awesome.
Bad Bunny here to promote Backlash at Puerto Rico,
which he's hosting, it's great.
I mean, he's a megastar, right?
So, Grammy Award winner, top streaming artist on Spotify,
and, dude, he's had success here in the WWE.
Only when I've had his back.
If he's looking to get involved in our business again,
then he'll just go through a table again.
You know, I'm not shy about it. I'm a bad guy.
But I don't go to Coachella and jump on stage
and grab the mic and interfere with his business.
So if he's coming here to play games,
then I really look forward to seeing him tonight.
Yeah. and Bad Bunny can watch you take out my deadbeat dad.
Well, to be fair, Dom, the entire planet
is going to see me exterminate Rey Mysterio.
Viva el Día del Juicio.
[Damian Priest chuckles]
["We Got the Rage" playing]
[Corey in English] Laser-focused Damian Priest.
♪ Damage CTRL, yeah ♪
♪ Ha-ha-ha ♪
♪ We got the power, we got the rage… ♪
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following is the Six-Woman Tag Team Match.
Introducing first, Dakota Kai, IYO SKY and Bayley,
Damage CTRL.
[Kevin Patrick] You have to wonder
if Damage CTRL are on the same page right now.
Set for a Six-Woman Tag Team action.
But who's going to be worthy of teaming alongside "The EST" Bianca Belair?
We're going to find out. Six-woman tag is next on Monday Night Raw.
♪ Make them look like magic ♪
♪ Three of us survive But we're still the baddest ♪
♪ Breaking down the walls We are far from average ♪
♪ Cause some damage… ♪
♪ I'mma cause damage ♪
♪ When I step on the scene, looking mean ♪
♪ I'm a savage ♪
[Bronson] I look around WWE
and I don't think anyone can compete with me.
♪ 'Cause I'm a force to be reckoned with I'mma go all out, there's no question ♪
[Bronson] They don't have my strength, speed, the power.
And even if they did, they all want to be popular.
I'm here to win. Victory after victory after victory…
♪ I'mma cause damage Like you never know… ♪
…until there's no one left to beat.
So, pose for the selfies, sign all the autographs
and kiss all the babies that you want,
because no one can measure up…
to Bronson Reed.
On SmackDown, I'm going to superkick Sami in the face,
Jey, you're going to superkick KO in the face.
and it's gonna be a big superkick party, you know what I'm saying?
Because I am "Main Event" Jim Uso. "Right-Hand Man" Jim Uso.
-You hear me, Jey? -Yeah.
What? Bruh.
Yo, you hearing me? You all right?
What did you say?
What's wrong, Uce?
I can see it. What's wrong?
Bruh, you ever think about
what if we don't win these championships back on Friday,
what's going to happen to us?
What? What are you getting at, Uce?
I'm saying I ran into Sami in the hallway, man.
Sami? You been talking to Sami Zayn, Uce?
Leave that fool alone, man. He's got nothing but mind games for you.
I can't believe you.
You can't talk to Sami, Uce.
Stay focused.
All I'm saying is, is what if we don't win?
Listen to me.
We're going to go out there
and we're going to do what we always do, Uce.
This Friday, we're going to win back our championships.
This Friday, we're going to win for The Bloodline.
This Friday, we're going to win for The Tribal Chief, man.
Come on.
[Corey] Certainly, unresolved issues within The Bloodline.
I hope Damage CTRL, for their sake, can get on the same page better.
[Kevin Patrick] Let's find out who The EST has by her side.
["Watch Me Shine" playing]
♪ Instead of crying They hear me roar ♪
♪ And now I see That I'm way better than before ♪
♪ I never needed you at all ♪
♪ Think I'd fall down ♪
♪ I'mma watch you fall… ♪
[Corey] The Raw Women's Champion, Bianca Belair,
didn't have to get ready because she stays ready.
The question is, who will be her partner?
♪ I never needed you at all ♪
[Kevin Patrick laughs] Oh!
["Trap Queen" playing]
[Corey] Wow.
[Kevin Patrick] Bianca choosing wisely.
[Corey] Usually, where Raquel Rodriguez goes, someone else follows.
[Kevin Patrick] You're a smart man, Corey Graves.
["Watch Me" playing]
♪ Watch me ♪
[Kevin Patrick] Women's Tag Team Champions teaming up with Bianca.
[Rome] Their opponents, the team of the Raw Women's Champion,
Bianca Belair,
and the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan.
[Corey] Damage CTRL earlier tonight wanted a fight.
It looks like they'll have their hands full,
because you can't find a more formidable trio
than Belair, Rodriguez and Morgan,
the Tag Champions and the Raw Women's Champion.
[Kevin Patrick] Champ on champ on champ.
Look at the smiles before they get set to go to battle against Damage CTRL.
[Corey] We're talking about champions, KP.
What about what we just learned moments ago?
A colossal announcement by "The Game" Triple H,
the unveiling of the brand-new World Heavyweight Championship.
This is truly enormous.
[Kevin Patrick] Who is going to be the inaugural World Heavyweight Champion?
Look at that beautiful championship.
[Corey] That is a stunning piece of jewelry.
The champion will be crowned
-at Night of Champions… -[bell ringing]
[Corey] May 27th, Saudi Arabia. What a night that will be.
Belair now overpowering IYO SKY,
as IYO has been making her climb up the ladder toward Belair
for a future opportunity.
[Kevin Patrick] Did you notice a little uncertainty within Damage CTRL
-as Bayley inserted herself in this match? -[Corey] What do they pay you for, KP?
-[Kevin Patrick] I'm curious. -[Corey] You come here
and you speculate and you try to drive wedges into trios,
into tandems, into factions.
It's like you don't enjoy anybody having friends or partners.
[Kevin Patrick] Not the only one.
Bianca Belair now, Dakota Kai. The tag was made. Look at Bianca Belair.
Tag.
Here comes Raquel Rodriguez,
days after defending her Tag Team Championships
on Friday Night SmackDown alongside Liv Morgan,
defeating Chelsea Green and Sonya Deville.
[Corey] Belair and Morgan and Rodriguez have cut the ring in half.
[Kevin Patrick] Raquel just using humans as weapons.
[Corey] She's using her own partner.
[Kevin Patrick] What do you make of Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez?
[Corey] I've been impressed by Morgan and Rodriguez,
at how well they've gelled together as a team
in a relatively short period of time.
Here we go. Liv Morgan looking to take it high risk from way up high.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
Liv Morgan now for the victory.
Liv will do anything for the victory.
We saw that on Friday Night SmackDown.
Put her body on the line.
Scrambling across now. Grabbing the leg of Dakota Kai.
[Corey] Liv has got one of the strongest wills of any competitor in WWE.
When Morgan sets her mind to something, she goes for it full speed.
But can Morgan get back into this?
[indistinct chatter]
[Kevin Patrick] We're in the Windy City, Chicago, Illinois.
A sold-out crowd enjoying a Six-Woman Tag Team Match.
It's The EST, the Raw Women's Champion, Bianca Belair,
and teaming with the Tag Team Champions, Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan.
[Corey] What a night it has already been.
Triple H, moments ago, unveiling the brand-new World Heavyweight Championship.
The new champion to be crowned at Night of Champions.
Bad Bunny still to come in the house.
It's Rey Mysterio versus Damian Priest. Oh!
[Kevin Patrick] Tag made. Yeah, you can say it again.
The crowd loving every single moment here from Chicago tonight.
Raucous crowd as Liv Morgan receiving punishment.
IYO SKY now.
It was made official earlier on today, Corey, IYO SKY-- Hang on a second.
Dakota for the win for Damage CTRL. Liv kicks out.
That IYO SKY, "The Genius of the Sky," will take on Bianca Belair
for the Raw Women's Championship at Backlash.
[Corey] IYO SKY has really thrived in recent weeks.
Perhaps at the expense of Bayley or Dakota Kai, but--
[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
[Corey] The punishment doled out by Bayley. It wasn't over yet.
Running double knee meteora in the corner.
And now, IYO trying to force Liv to submit.
Damage CTRL has done a great job of cutting the ring in half,
isolating Morgan from her corner.
This is where it all comes down to team chemistry.
Damage CTRL has had much more experience competing in situations like this.
My goodness. Shotei knocked Rodriguez off the apron.
[Kevin Patrick] Tag was made. Dakota Kai enters now.
You could see Bianca Belair moments ago
desperate to get in the ring to have a shot at IYO SKY.
[Corey] Morgan will not, under any circumstance--
Nasty landing for IYO on the outside.
Liv flattens Kai.
Can Liv make it to her corner to a very eager Raw Women's Champion?
[Kevin Patrick] Doing her very best to get there, Liv Morgan.
Dakota Kai on the deck as Bianca is desperate to get involved.
[Corey] Inches away.
-IYO now. -[Kevin Patrick] Oh.
[Corey] Brilliant maneuver.
Belair into the stairs.
The EST has been taken out of the equation, at least momentarily.
Liv all on her own. Backstabber.
[Kevin Patrick] Look at Liv go.
[Corey] Liv's not going anywhere. Liv has nowhere to go.
She doesn't have a partner. Raquel starting to stir in the corner.
[Kevin Patrick] Liv Morgan's fellow champion.
Tag made to the powerhouse that is Raquel Rodriguez.
[Corey] This is what Damage CTRL wanted to avoid in this one.
[Kevin Patrick] This is what Raquel Rodriguez is all about.
[Corey] Unbridled power.
[Kevin Patrick] Taking down the Grand Slam Champion, Bayley.
[Corey] Fallaway slam about halfway across the ring,
Raquel digging in her heels.
[Kevin Patrick] And the champ is feeling it.
[Corey] Twisting senton. That could do it.
[Kevin Patrick] Grabs that leg for the win, Raquel Rodriguez.
And in the way, Dakota Kai.
[Corey] Kai keeping this match-up alive for all of Damage CTRL.
Dakota launched into orbit for her troubles.
[Kevin Patrick] Tag.
All of a sudden, Bianca, Liv, Raquel all back up.
[Corey] Fantastic teamwork.
Belair now going to be legal for her team,
because I think Liv is about to take a trip.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, watch out.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Flattening Dakota and Bayley, but watch IYO.
[Kevin Patrick] The Genius of the Sky dropkicking Raquel.
[Corey] Remember, Bianca is legal. Looking for the KOD.
[Kevin Patrick] IYO blocks. For her efforts, face-first into the post.
Bayley wants to have her say now.
The Role Model back inside.
[Corey] Uh-oh.
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
[Corey] KOD.
[Kevin Patrick] The Raw Women's Champion puts away Damage CTRL.
[bell ringing]
["Watch Me Shine" playing]
[Rome] Here are your winners,
the team of the WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
Raquel Rodriguez, Liv Morgan,
and the Raw Women's Champion, Bianca Belair.
[Corey] Psychologically, tonight was of the utmost importance
for all of Damage CTRL, but IYO SKY, in particular,
who wanted to get a leg up, an advantage prior to Backlash.
IYO will have her chance, but tonight wasn't the night.
[Kevin Patrick] What a unique opponent IYO SKY represents for Bianca Belair.
From one champion under fire to another, let's revisit a brilliant match last week.
It was the United States Champion, Austin Theory, and Bobby Lashley.
A rivalry that's been going back months now.
And this was one hellacious battle between the duo.
[Corey] As The All Mighty finally cinched in the Hurt Lock,
Austin Theory could feel the title slipping away…
-[bell ringing] -[Corey] …when "The Colossal"
Bronson Reed would arrive and wreak havoc on both Lashley and Theory.
[Kevin Patrick] Did you say title or tidal?
Because this man is a walking natural disaster,
but Lashley was looking for the Hurt Lock on Reed.
Austin Theory would step back in and have his say,
and what happened next was frightening.
[Corey] A Tsunami by Bronson Reed to The All Mighty.
["A-Town Down" playing]
[Corey] After all the carnage, we can still all, as a universe,
experience Austin Theory live.
♪ You see the future Right in front of your eyes ♪
♪ Headin' to the top But it's not a surprise ♪
♪ Not in my eyes, knew it And dreamt it as a child ♪
♪ A-Town Down! ♪
♪ My style, hostile ♪
♪ Watch the crowd get loud I'm ready to take over… ♪
[Rome] Please welcome the United States Champion,
Austin Theory!
[Kevin Patrick] Made official on Friday Night SmackDown.
Austin Theory will defend his United States Championship
against Bronson Reed and Bobby Lashley.
What does he have to say about this? We're going to find out next on Raw.
[upbeat music playing]
[Corey] Attention, WWE Universe, the reviews are in
and WWE 2K23 is officially the highest-rated game
in WWE 2K franchise history.
And for a limited time, the standard and icon edition
are 25% off on Xbox One and Xbox Series X and S.
So get your copy today.
[Kevin Patrick] Welcome back, folks. We're in Chicago, Illinois, tonight.
A packed crowd, and a look at the United States Champion,
Austin Theory.
One week from Saturday,
Austin Theory will be defending his United States Championship
in San Juan, Puerto Rico, at Backlash.
Over 600 lbs in his opponents coming his way
in the form of The Aussie Destroyer and The All Mighty.
Welcome. Welcome to Austin Theory Live.
[crowd booing]
Hey, this is the experience that everybody wants to be a part of.
Yeah. All right. Hey.
Maybe you guys don't want to, but there are two people
that really want this experience, and that's Bronson Reed and Bobby Lashley.
You see, I am the greatest United States Champion of all time…
but where's my respect, because last time I checked,
I did not choose my opponents for this match.
but when I look over there, I see a new championship.
A championship that Triple H just introduced.
And you see, that title, it shouldn't be on that pedestal.
No, no, no. It should be around my waist.
[crowd booing]
Boo all you want, but it should because Triple H said it.
That title should be earned,
and if there's any man around here that has earned it, it is me.
[crowd booing]
But instead of somebody putting that title around my waist,
because I already deserve it, I'm in a Triple Threat Match
where I don't have to be pinned or submitted to lose my title.
[crowd chanting] You suck! You suck! You suck!
Oh. Oh, I suck?
-[crowd] yes! -Oh, yeah? Yeah?
I suck, but I'm the guy that pinned John Cena at WrestleMania.
[crowd booing]
Yeah. I did that, but this is--
[crowd chanting] You tapped out! You tapped out! You tapped out!
No, no, no.
I did not tap out because, you see, I'm living my dreams.
All you losers tapped out
because you're sitting in those seats watching the greatest of all time.
[crowd booing]
But this is what I'm talking about.
-["All Mighty" playing] -[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Hang on.
Here comes one of Austin Theory's United States Title challengers.
A man who has held the gold before, "The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley.
[Kevin Patrick] And look at the smile on the face of Bobby Lashley.
The match has been made official. Bobby Lashley's a fighter, Corey.
This is exactly what he wants at Backlash.
[Corey] It's why Bobby Lashley wakes up in the morning.
-A challenge. -Boom!
[Corey] The bigger the obstacle, the more excited The All Mighty.
Bobby Lashley all smiles as he walks past
the brand-new World Heavyweight Championship.
Lashley has a date with destiny.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Bobby! Bobby! Bobby!
You hear that? Listen, kid. Hey. Listen, kid.
I don't have any problem. Yes. I called you "kid."
The only problem I have with you is that you're holding my title right there.
You're over here running your mouth
about being the greatest United States Champion ever.
When are you going to start stepping up?
When are you going to start accepting every challenge that comes your way?
You keep running away from every obstacle that you should be running towards.
I'm running away?
Let me tell you something.
I've been in the ring with you, so I know how tough you are.
I don't think you do.
You're young, you're hungry, and you're tough.
So, what is it, Theory?
Are you lazy and you don't want to work…
I'm the damn champ.
…or are you scared?
Am I scared? Am I scared?
Is this your idea, this match? Is this your idea?
You should be welcoming every opportunity to fight for that title…
because I would.
So you ask who requested that Triple Threat Match at Backlash?
I did.
You did? You requested the match? It was that easy?
Well, if you're so good at requesting matches,
where was your match at WrestleMania, Bobby?
[crowd booing]
[chuckles]
I should knock your teeth down your throat for saying that.
You should. Hey, hey, hey. Hold on. You should.
You should, but before you do so…
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh. -[Corey] Lashley out of the way.
[Kevin Patrick] Theory's angered "The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley.
[Corey] Bobby double-legged the champion, but Theory looking to get the upper hand.
[Kevin Patrick] Theory straight into the barricade.
[Corey] That is superhuman power possessed by The All Mighty.
[Kevin Patrick] The All Mighty's always ready for a fight,
and he's taking it to Theory now.
[Corey] Lashley reminding the United States Champion
just what he is capable of, but here's Bronson Reed.
[Kevin Patrick] Out of nowhere, "The Aussie Destroyer" Bronson Reed.
[Corey] But Lashley with the upper hand, and now, Theory from behind.
Chaos ensuing in the name of the United States Championship.
[Kevin Patrick] A temporary alliance, perhaps,
between Bronson Reed and Austin Theory.
[Corey] Oh, no. Oh, no.
-Oh, my God. No. -[Kevin Patrick] Oh, no.
Pulverizing Lashley into the post.
[Corey] All Mighty or not, I don't think Bobby's getting up after that.
[Kevin Patrick] Theory's straight back inside.
[Corey] A temporary alliance of necessity being formed by Theory and Reed,
and Bobby Lashley about to take a trip.
A-Town Down.
What did I tell you? You want to come around and mess with me?
You ain't nothing.
[commentators exclaim]
[Kevin Patrick] Every man for himself.
[Corey] Emphasis on "temporary."
[Kevin Patrick] Thunderous senton by Bronson Reed,
who is going to make the climb.
Nearly 400 lbs.
A Tsunami to Austin Theory.
[Kevin Patrick] Is this a look into the future?
["War Ready" playing]
[Corey] Take a look at this.
Men that big are not supposed to move the way Bronson Reed does.
A freak of nature, a natural disaster,
and perhaps your next WWE United States Champion.
We've been over it a few times.
Now say it back to me so that I knew that you've got it.
I'm trying. There's just a lot going on.
The Triple H announcement, the new championship, the Draft.
It's a lot.
I know it's a lot, and I don't want you to get overwhelmed. It's very basic, okay?
Gable, will you come in here and please explain it to him?
Boogs, I'll tell you one more time. Okay?
Hold on one second. Do this.
-Okay. -Focus.
Okay. Now I'm listening.
Does that help him?
-Blood flow in the brain? -Okay.
Look, some Superstars are eligible to be drafted night one.
Everyone else can be drafted night two,
and if you're in a tag team, you better make sure you get drafted
alongside your partner or else your team, kaput.
All right. Done. [blows raspberry] Out.
Rest assured, I have made sure to be drafted alongside my number-one guy,
my prized pupil, Otis.
-Yes. -The Alpha Academy remains intact, baby.
Thank you!
That's very interesting
because I have ensured that wherever Otis goes, I go.
That's my number-one guy.
-He's mine. -No, that's my number--
-He's mine. -My number-one guy.
Aye, aye, aye.
Guys, with the WWE Draft,
we all need to have a more positive mentality.
Chad, listen, I know you're worried about losing your best friend,
your number-one guy, but think about it.
You can finally reach your full potential.
I mean, you…
you could be the new World Heavyweight Champion.
Wow.
I mean, that would mean the end of Alpha Academy,
which would mean the end of your life as we know it
because everyone will think you're a loser without Otis.
Just like you're going to be a loser in our match tonight.
-Shoosh. -Whoa, whoa, whoa.
You got it, Coach.
This man right here, Chad Gable,
tonight, he'll show you a shakedown, my man.
Well, I am positive-Ali sure that you just made a big mistake.
-There's no way. -He's a clown.
-Just my number-one guy. -Relax. My number-one guy. Just relax.
[Gable] There's plenty of love to go around.
[Kevin Patrick] Check this out.
Bad Bunny is in the Chicagoland area, Corey,
en route to Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] Posted on San Benito's Instagram story,
and I guarantee you, Bad Bunny is excited as the entire WWE Universe
with the unveiling of the brand-new World Heavyweight Championship.
The announcement made earlier tonight by Triple H.
The new champion will be crowned at Night of Champions on May 27th.
Absolutely game changing.
[Kevin Patrick] It certainly is.
Night of Champions last Saturday in May,
we've got the Draft coming up this Friday with Chad Gable.
It's certainly on his mind.
["Shoooosh" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by Maxxine Dupri and Otis,
representing Alpha Academy, Chad Gable.
[Kevin Patrick] Chad Gable a little put off by the presence of Maxxine Dupri.
Could he reach his full potential, says Mustafa Ali?
Let's see what Chad Gable has to say about that
when they got one on one next on Monday Night Raw.
Thank you!
[Kevin Patrick] Welcome back to Monday Night Raw.
Chad Gable ready for one-on-one action
[Rome] And his opponent, from Chicago, Illinois,
Mustafa Ali!
[Corey] We all need a little positive-Ali in our life, no?
[Kevin Patrick] Shy Ali taking it to the Allstate Arena,
down the from where he grew up.
[Corey] Fantastic reaction from a sold-out Allstate Arena
for Mustafa Ali.
[Kevin Patrick] What do you make of Mustafa Ali's positive outlook
at the Draft to come this Friday and the following Monday on Raw?
As we look at the sold-out crowd from Chicago, Illinois, tonight.
[Corey] I think Ali's positive attitude might be what takes him to the next level.
[Kevin Patrick] Mustafa Ali's perpetually been a Superstar on the cusp,
but has yet to truly breakthrough in grand, spectacular fashion.
[bell ringing]
[Corey] The Draft could change that this Friday night on SmackDown,
and again, right here on Monday Night Raw, the following Monday.
Chad Gable with a single-leg takedown.
Former United States Olympian.
[Kevin Patrick] We know about the talent of these Superstars,
what they're capable of,
-here to impress ahead of the WWE Draft. -[Corey] That's what this is all about.
This is an opportunity to raise your Draft stock.
We heard Chad Gable going to great lengths
to try to keep himself and his number-one guy, Otis, together.
-Ohh! -[Gable] Thank you!
[Kevin Patrick] Chad Gable, the Olympian.
[Corey] Much to the excitement of his number-one guy, Otis,
who's joined by…
[Kevin Patrick] Think Otis would prefer to be drafted alongside Maxxine or Chad?
[Corey] Listen, I can't blame anybody for wanting to follow Maxxine anywhere.
Big kick right between the eyes,
and Ali picked out of midair by Gable.
Tremendous power. Dragon suplex. That's got to do it.
[Kevin Patrick] Somehow, Mustafa Ali's still alive. Wow.
Was Otis even watching?
[Corey] Otis was watching something.
[Kevin Patrick] Determined look in the face of Chad Gable.
[Corey] Fantastic athleticism from Mustafa Ali, who spiked Chad Gable.
Ali would love to make himself a high Draft pick
either here on Raw or over on Friday Night SmackDown.
This performance could send him on his way.
[Kevin Patrick] Mustafa Ali in his hometown.
Evaded by Chad Gable now, who looks to pounce and punish Mustafa Ali quickly.
[Corey] Chaos Theory incoming. No, great reversal by Ali.
-[Kevin Patrick] Ali to win it. -[Corey] Ali steals it.
-[bell ringing] -[Kevin Patrick] He's got him.
[Rome] Here is your winner, Mustafa Ali.
[Corey] Ali accomplished his mission tonight.
Mustafa is looking forward to the future and it is looking absolutely positive.
[Kevin Patrick] That positivity is paying off.
[Corey] Will Ali end up on Friday Night SmackDown
or remain on Monday Night Raw?
We will find out starting this Friday.
[crowd cheering]
Hey. Hey, Uce. I see what you doing.
You're playing these mind games with Jey.
-Mind games? -Yeah.
I'm not playing mind games. I'm just telling him the truth.
The truth?
Sami, the truth is this Friday we take back what's ours, Uce.
You keep talking about what if we lose? What if we lose? What if you lose? Huh?
You think Kevin's going to sit right there and be behind you and have your back? Huh?
You think he actually forgot all the times you kicked him right in the face?
I didn't. I was standing right there with you
every single time you did it, Uce.
Yeah. So, he didn't forgive you.
He never forgave you, Uce. He just used you.
Used you to get that.
And this Friday, Sami, when you lose that, Kevin, he's going to turn on you.
And you're going to deserve every bit of it.
So don't worry about my brother, Uce. Worry about yours.
[Corey] You gotta fire with fire.
Jimmy Uso returning the psychological mind games
ahead of the Tag Team Title match Friday night.
["I Am Danger" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, representing The Judgment Day,
Finn Bálor.
[Kevin Patrick] Finn Bálor told Cody Rhodes earlier tonight
he was screwed at WrestleMania, that nobody had his back.
He tried to convince "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes
to join The Judgment Day.
A proposition that backfired,
setting up a one-on-one between Bálor and Cody Rhodes.
[Corey] Well, the American Nightmare returns to the ring for the first time
since being mauled by The Beast Incarnate.
Rhodes, Bálor live next.
[Kevin Patrick] WWE Raw proud to be in Chicago, Illinois, tonight.
Home of the Bears, the Cubs, the White Sox,
and here shortly at the sold-out Allstate Arena,
the home of Bad Bunny.
Welcome back inside.
The determined face of Finn Bálor, set to go one-on-one
with "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes.
["Kingdom" playing]
♪ Wrestling has more Than one royal family ♪
♪ Adrenaline in my soul ♪
♪ Every thought out of control ♪
♪ Do it all to get them off their feet ♪
♪ Crowd is here, about to blow ♪
♪ Waitin' for me to start the show ♪
♪ Out the curtain Lights go up, I'm home ♪
♪ Whoa! ♪
[fireworks popping]
♪ And my father said When I was younger… ♪
[Rome] His opponent, from Atlanta, Georgia,
weighing in at 222 lbs,
"The American Nightmare"
Cody Rhodes!
[Corey] Cody Rhodes returning to the building in which he competed
inside the iconic…
[fireworks popping]
…Hell in a Cell in one of the grittiest displays we have ever seen
from any Superstar,
but Rhodes still has a monstrous task in his future.
[Kevin Patrick] Finn Bálor saying earlier, "This is a match, Cody,
you simply cannot win."
Can "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes slay "The Beast Incarnate" Brock Lesnar?
We're going to find out one week from Saturday at Backlash.
♪ Whoa! ♪
[Corey] There are two schools of thought on the actions recently of Cody Rhodes
since failing to finish the story at WrestleMania.
-Is Cody Rhodes of sound mind? -[bell ringing]
The fact that Cody accepted this match-up as he prepares for Brock Lesnar.
Does Cody want to stay razor sharp and test himself,
or is Cody setting himself up for speed bumps and roadblocks?
[Kevin Patrick] The reality is, Finn Bálor is not the only one that said that.
Other Superstars have said, Cody, are you sure you want to go to battle
with Brock Lesnar of all people?
[Corey] Not only go to battle.
Cody Rhodes called Brock Lesnar,
yes, the most decorated combat athlete in history, a coward.
Cody Rhodes is either the toughest man walking the Earth or the craziest.
We'll find out at Backlash.
[Kevin Patrick] If Cody Rhodes was screwed at WrestleMania by Solo Sikoa,
and couldn't get the better of Roman Reigns,
then he was very close to beating a man who's beaten Brock Lesnar before.
What about that school of thought, that Cody Rhodes,
if there's anyone that can beat Brock Lesnar, it's Cody Rhodes.
[Corey] Listen, Roman Reigns has beaten Brock Lesnar in the past,
but Cody Rhodes couldn't beat Roman Reigns.
That doesn't mean that he can beat Brock Lesnar.
In fact, I don't think I'm out of line
by calling Cody a massive underdog come Backlash.
Yes, a man who just headlined WrestleMania Sunday,
Cody Rhodes who pushed The Tribal Chief to his limit,
is coming into Backlash as an underdog
as does everyone who steps into the ring with Brock Lesnar,
let alone someone who has the guts to call Lesnar a coward.
[Kevin Patrick] You can be sure he will revel, he will thrive
in being known as an underdog heading into that match with Brock Lesnar.
[Corey] That may be how Cody thrives,
but that also may be another bit of evidence
that Cody is descending into very dangerous territory,
mentally and emotionally.
From the highest of highs, walking the aisle at WrestleMania,
to the biggest of heartbreaks.
Rhodes picking Bálor out of midair. Gutbuster maneuver. Very clever.
-Cover. -[Kevin Patrick] Cody now,
looking to put away Finn. Two of the very best to do it.
Finn Bálor, the inaugural Universal Champion.
[Corey] You have to imagine that both of these men
were watching very excitedly
as Triple H unveiled the new World Heavyweight Championship.
Remember what Triple H said.
Wherever Roman Reigns is drafted beginning this Friday on SmackDown,
continuing next week on Monday Night Raw,
he will take the Undisputed Universal Championship with him.
Whichever brand doesn't get Roman Reigns
gets the new World Heavyweight Championship,
which will be decided on May 27th at Night of Champions.
-Cover by Rhodes. -[Kevin Patrick] Cody for the win.
-Finn kicking out early. There is a look. -[Corey] What a gorgeous championship.
[Kevin Patrick] World Heavyweight Championship.
Man, is that beautiful.
It would mean so much, you can be sure, whether it's Cody Rhodes, Finn Bálor,
or a host of Superstars.
[Corey] We spend all this time talking about how tough Cody Rhodes is
whether it be at Hell in a Cell here in Chicago,
or just the fact that he's insane enough to call Brock Lesnar a coward.
Let's talk about Finn Bálor for a minute.
A man who suffered an injury that required 14 staples in his skull at WrestleMania,
yet, here we are, and it was Bálor who stepped up to the plate tonight.
Yes, he extended an olive branch that Cody refused,
very classily, I might add.
[Kevin Patrick] Finn Bálor--
-[Corey] Oh, my God. -[Kevin Patrick] Oh, man.
[Corey] That was nasty.
Cody may be seriously injured. Favoring his pec.
Potentially the ribs that were injured at the hands of The Beast Incarnate
several weeks back.
Remember, just because a Superstar is medically cleared to compete
does not mean they are anywhere near 100%.
Oh, my God.
[Kevin Patrick] Cody did only get that medical clearance earlier on today.
How can Cody Rhodes rally here?
It's not looking good for The American Nightmare.
[Corey] Everything's coming up Bálor.
[crowd booing]
[Kevin Patrick] An electric sold-out crowd in Chicago, Illinois,
witnessing one-on-one action.
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes medically cleared as of today to compete.
Back in action one-on-one against Finn Bálor of The Judgment Day.
[Corey] Bálor continuing to focus his attack on the ribs of Cody,
which were softened up by Brock Lesnar several weeks ago,
but Cody fighting through the pain.
Feeling the adrenaline flow.
Snap powerslam. Bálor's down.
[Kevin Patrick] Clutching those ribs again a moment ago, Corey.
[Corey] Cody now feels the adrenaline coursing through his veins.
Disaster kick on the money. That may do it.
[Kevin Patrick] It flattened Finn. Can it put him away? A kick-out by Bálor.
[Corey] A testament to the toughness and grit of Finn Bálor in his own right,
who ate Cody's boot full speed but was still able to kick out.
Rhodes looking laser-focused
as he prepares to battle a man he called a coward.
As we look again at the disaster kick. Cody looking for Cross Rhodes.
Bálor with a beautiful counter.
[Kevin Patrick] Finn turns it around. Now, a knee by Cody. Cody back on his feet.
[Corey] Cody wanted the Cody Cutter. Bálor did his homework.
[Kevin Patrick] Scouted by Bálor. For the win now, Finn Bálor.
Cody kicking out again.
[Corey] The man I was referencing moments ago,
whom Cody Rhodes called a coward,
none other than "The Beast Incarnate" Brock Lesnar,
the most decorated combat sports athlete in history.
I don't know that anyone has ever called Brock Lesnar a coward
and lived to tell the tale.
Cody looks to be the first, but Cody's in bad shape.
Bálor is destroying the American Nightmare's ribs.
[Kevin Patrick] Yeah, those battered ribs taking a beating.
[Corey] Sling Blade takes down Rhodes.
[Kevin Patrick] Cody somehow back on his feet.
Finn Bálor looking energized.
[Corey] Superkick stops Finn.
[Kevin Patrick] Gives Cody a bit of time and space. Looking for the Cody Cutter.
[Corey] Can Cody finish?
[Kevin Patrick] Is this it for Cody Rhodes?
Oh, no, Finn Bálor kicking out.
[Corey] Still a determined look in the eyes of The American Nightmare,
as we look back again at an expertly executed Cody Cutter
driving Bálor face-first, but Finn survives.
[Kevin Patrick] We've seen Cody Rhodes come through all sorts of adversity.
You mentioned Hell in a Cell here in Chicago against Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Corey] KP, this might be the last time
we see The American Nightmare on Monday Night Raw.
The same is said for Finn Bálor.
What will The Judgment Day look like after the Draft that begins this Friday?
[Kevin Patrick] Bálor crushing the ribs again.
[Corey] The landscape could look very different.
Shotgun dropkick by Finn.
The American Nightmare fallen in the drop zone.
Finn can taste victory.
[Kevin Patrick] This may be it for Cody Rhodes.
Had it read. Cody's still alive.
[Corey] Cody out of the way just in time to avoid the Coup de Grace.
Rhodes now hooking Finn Bálor for the Cross Rhodes. Inside cradle.
Whose shoulders are down? Cody's down.
[Kevin Patrick] Both Superstars back on their feet.
[Corey] Could it be? Pedigree.
[Kevin Patrick] Bálor's out. This is the moment for Cody Rhodes.
[Corey] And now, The American Nightmare with a chance
to send a message to "The Beast" Brock Lesnar.
[Kevin Patrick] Stalking Finn Bálor.
Cross Rhodes!
-[crowd] One, two, three. -[Kevin Patrick] Cody's done it.
[bell ringing]
["Kingdom" playing]
[Rome] Here is your winner, "The American Nightmare"
Cody Rhodes.
[Corey] It was an arduous task, but Rhodes would want it no other way.
A battle back and forth between two elite-level Superstars.
The American Nightmare a little too much for Bálor.
In the end, a symbolic Pedigree
from The American Nightmare,
and Cross Rhodes.
[Kevin Patrick] A valiant performance.
At Backlash, one week from Saturday,
you just wonder what condition Cody Rhodes will be in
when he takes on "The Beast Incarnate" Brock Lesnar.
Cody saying earlier it is, quote,
"An unenviable task trying to slay The Beast."
[Corey] Rollins said at Hell in a Cell
he stood on the shoulders of the WWE Universe,
much like he is doing right in this moment,
because Rhodes will need the strength of ten men
if The American Nightmare wants to topple
the most decorated athlete in combat sports history,
"The Beast Incarnate" Brock Lesnar.
What a battle tonight for Cody Rhodes.
And again, will Cody even be a member of Monday Night Raw come next week?
I can't wait.
Yeah, the landscape's shifting Friday and Monday to come with the Draft.
Now, let's go back to the Raw after WrestleMania,
because Bad Bunny is on the way here to the Allstate Arena.
This was the last time he was on Monday Night Raw,
watching as a fan of WWE, invited to the show,
and a confrontation with Damian Priest of The Judgment Day.
[Corey] Damian Priest, who teamed with Bad Bunny at WrestleMania…
that would eventually turn his back
on the biggest star in the music industry these days.
A thunderous chokeslam through the announce table
at the ice-cold hands of Damian Priest.
[Kevin Patrick] Friends no more.
Damian Priest is in action tonight, taking on the Hall of Famer,
the legendary luchador that has a certain feeling about The Judgment Day
and Damian Priest and the influence on his son, that match is to come tonight.
[Corey] We know Bad Bunny is in Chicago and on his way,
but The Visionary, The Revolutionary,
Seth "Freakin" Rollins has arrived.
["Visionary" playing]
[crowd vocalizing]
♪ Burn it down! ♪
[Rome] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Kevin Patrick] Seth Rollins, a fan of the Chicago Bears.
Seth Rollins, also a fan of blockbuster matches,
and that is what's coming his way one week from Saturday at Backlash.
Let's say a colossal task in his way.
[Corey] That may be the understatement of the century,
but The Visionary, The Drip God is enjoying Chicago
serenading him with his battle hymn.
Rollins will battle Omos at Backlash,
but we will hear from The Visionary live next.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] We are back on Monday Night Raw with Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[Kevin Patrick] And they can sing here in Chicago.
[crowd vocalizing]
Now, I didn't mean to keep you guys waiting all night,
but Chicago,
welcome to Monday Night Rollins.
I am The Visionary, I am The Revolutionary, I am Seth…
[crowd] "Freakin" Rollins!
Chicago, I was going to come out here tonight and see how you guys were feeling
about my big match coming up at Backlash
against "The Nigerian Giant" Omos.
[crowd booing]
But if you can believe it,
something bigger
has caught my eye.
[Corey] It is beautiful.
[crowd chanting] You deserve it! You deserve it! You deserve it!
[Rollins] Chicago, are you just saying that because I'm a Bears fan?
No, no, no, Truth be told, Triple H came out here earlier tonight.
He said some very nice things about Roman Reigns.
He talked about the list of Superstars Roman has defeated during his title reign,
but do you know who is not on that list?
Now, Roman Reigns would like you to believe
that everybody wants what he has,
everybody wants to be him,
but the truth is
some of us still want to fight…
and this is an opportunity for us to fight.
This is an opportunity for us to push the industry forward.
This is an opportunity for us to have a World Heavyweight Championship
that's about more than politics and part-timers.
[crowd cheering]
And if we are going to crown a new World Heavyweight Champion
at Night of Champions, well, Chicago,
I'll give you one guess who I'd put my money on.
["Shake the Ground" playing]
[Corey] Wait a minute.
I don't believe this is who Seth was referencing.
Although, you know I'm a betting man, KP,
and it's hard to bet against anybody
the size of "The Nigerian Giant" Omos.
The man who will oppose--
Seth "Freakin" Rollins…
please forgive the interruption.
I mean no disrespect, and I mean that sincerely.
To the contrary, I respect you immensely.
As a matter of fact, in my humble estimation,
you are without question one of the most impressive Superstars
to ever grace a WWE ring.
Seth…
you have accomplished virtually everything there is to accomplish.
You're absolutely brilliant,
with the exception of your fashion choices.
But I have to say
that it's because of those accolades that you've been chosen.
You see, it's my responsibility to get The Giant giant matches,
and a win over Seth "Freakin" Rollins
would be absolutely huge.
So, Seth, with all due respect, and I mean that sincerely,
I would caution you against making predictions about your future,
because when The Nigerian Giant is finished with you,
you might not have much of a future after Backlash.
Well, thank you.
[crowd vocalizing]
Now, Chicago, we should thank Mr. MVP for the kind words.
[crowd booing]
But I got to be honest, you undersold your Giant here.
He is not just huge,
he is the tallest man I've ever seen in my entire life.
The strongest, the most powerful force in WWE.
Omos, you are once in a generation…
because you were born that way.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins is once in the generation,
because I made myself that way.
I should be afraid of you. I should be afraid of you, but I'm not.
And at Backlash, you know what I'm going to do?
I'm going to do what I do best. I'm going to make your ass famous.
I'm going to give you the match of your life,
and then I'm going to bounce your big head off this canvas.
And when you wake up from your three-second nap,
an arena filled with people
are going to be singing my song.
[crowd vocalizing]
["Visionary" playing]
[Corey] Absolutely fearless.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins standing toe-to-toe
with "The Nigerian Giant" Omos.
[Kevin Patrick] A match brokered by MVP.
Seth Rollins saying, "I'm going to make you famous, Omos."
Will Omos and MVP regret going up against the Visionary?
[Corey] Or is discretion the better part of valor for Rollins?
[Kevin Patrick] A live look at Rey Mysterio.
The Hall of Famer.
We know that Bad Bunny is on his way,
but if Damian Priest takes his eye off the ball,
he'll be put to the sword by the legendary luchador.
[Cena] WWE is proud to partner with Make-A-Wish
to create wish experiences that shine a beacon of light
on families in their darkest hour.
For over 40 years, Make-A-Wish has delivered on its mission to spark hope
for the lives of children battling critical illnesses
all over the world.
With its long-standing community ally,
WWE has had the honor of granting over 6,000 wishes,
and I've been fortunate enough to be part of many of them.
Make-A-Wish and WWE remain dedicated to providing life-changing wishes
for these remarkable children,
and, in turn, creating transformational moments
that none of us will ever forget.
[Corey] WWE began granting wishes 40 years ago in 1983.
Tonight, we are thrilled to be joined by Make-A-Wish alumni
and their family members to celebrate the longstanding impact of their wish
here tonight on Monday Night Raw.
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] A beautiful sight.
Absolutely, bro. Little Giants.
You see they've run this play called the annexation of Puerto Rico, dude,
and I think if we tweak it just a little bit,
we can use it to beat The Bloodline at Backlash, bro, what do you think?
Where have you been? Where have you been all night?
All night? Where?
Look, it hasn't been a great night for me.
You haven't had a great night?
All night? Where were you?
I wasn't going to say anything, but I was talking to Jey Uso before,
and then I ended up speaking to Jimmy Uso.
What? Why?
Why are you still talking to these guys?
What could you possibly have to tell them? I don't get-- What is it?
Please don't tell me-- No, no. This can't be.
This can't be about being worried about what Roman's going to do to them.
-Why do you care? -It's not so--
No. Who cares? No. Who cares?
-I care. -Oh, no, no.
Look, I used to like The Usos too before they became Roman's little cronies.
Okay? It's too late for them now.
If they haven't figured out by now that Roman's using them
to stay where he's at,
they deserve whatever happens to them after we beat them on Friday,
but we have to beat them on Friday.
We have to keep these titles. That's what I'm worried about.
That's what you should be worried about, man.
-Bro-- -No. No, no, no.
Man, I know exactly what you're going through.
[exhales]
How could you possibly know what I'm going through?
Well, maybe you remember a little team called RK-Bro,
where I teamed up with Randy Orton,
The Viper, The Legend Killer, The Apex Predator.
Everybody, every week, would tell me how he's going to RKO me, but he didn't.
You know why? Because we're bros.
At the end of the day, you and Kev, you guys are bros, and win, lose or draw,
everything's going to be cool, bro.
-Yeah. -Wow.
-Thanks. Thanks, bro. -No problem, dude.
[upbeat music playing]
[Corey] Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens had better be on the same page,
because this Friday night on SmackDown,
a WrestleMania main event rematch for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships,
as Zayn and Owen defend against The Usos,
who look to become champions for a ninth time.
It's hard to fathom. That's the reality.
[Kevin Patrick] It is just a massive few weeks in general, folks,
one week from Saturday, WWE Backlash, live from Puerto Rico.
Man, is the card lined up and absolutely stacked right now.
[Corey] It's hosted by none other than Bad Bunny, and look at this card.
[Kevin Patrick] It is indeed, The American Nightmare.
We saw him in action tonight.
Cody Rhodes, the inevitable task, he says, the inenviable, excuse me, task,
of taking on Brock Lesnar "The Beast" and slaying him at Backlash.
[Corey] And the new SmackDown Women's Champion,
Rhea Ripley of The Judgment Day, will defend her title
against Zelina Vega of The LWO.
[Kevin Patrick] How about Seth "Freakin" Rollins?
Says he's going to make Omos famous,
a match brokered by MVP, the 7'3" Nigerian Giant in Rollins' way.
[Corey] The United States Champion, Austin Theory, will defend his title
against over 600 lbs of opposition in "The Colossal" Bronson Reed,
and "The All Mighty" Bobby Lashley.
[Kevin Patrick] Bianca Belair is close to becoming the all-time
Raw Women's Champion, surpassing Becky Lynch.
Can she do it? Can she take down IYO SKY at Backlash?
[Corey] And it remains to be seen who will enter this match-up
as Tag Team Champions,
but it will be one side as Owens, Zayn, and Riddle join forces
to battle The Usos and Solo Sikoa.
And WWE Universe, we're getting word right now
that none other than Bad Bunny has updated his Instagram story.
And it looks as though San Benito
has arrived here in Chicago.
[Kevin Patrick] Bring it on. The global sensation that is Bad Bunny.
[Corey] The man who hosted both weekend, or I'm sorry,
headlined both weekends of Coachella.
[Kevin Patrick] Who's ready for the main event of Monday Night Raw?
["Booyaka 619" playing]
[crowd cheering]
[bell ringing]
[Rome] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, WWE Hall of Famer
Rey Mysterio.
[Kevin Patrick] Rey Mysterio, what an ovation for the Hall of Famer
as he gets set for one-on-one action against Damian Priest.
[Corey] Certainly no love lost between Priest and Rey.
Rey proudly representing his heritage with The LWO shirt, the Mexican flag.
And Rey will be representing all of lucha libre as he goes one-on-one
with The Punishment of The Judgment Day, Damian Priest.
It is live, it is our main event, and it's next on Monday Night Raw.
[Kevin Patrick] We have not heard from Brock Lesnar
since he obliterated Cody Rhodes on the Raw after WrestleMania.
He's going to face The American Nightmare at Backlash,
but Brock Lesnar is back on Monday Night Raw
next week from Fort Worth, Texas.
[Corey] We are preparing for one-on-one action
as the newly minted WWE Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio
battles Damian Priest of The Judgment Day.
We found out before the commercial break,
Bad Bunny is in the vicinity of the Allstate Arena.
[Kevin Patrick] Bad Bunny, a lifelong fan of Rey Mysterio.
["Rise for the Night" playing]
[Rome] And his opponent, representing The Judgment Day,
Damian Priest!
[Corey] The Punishment of the Judgment Day, Damian Priest,
out to dispatch of Rey Mysterio in very painful fashion.
[Kevin Patrick] The brute force within The Judgment Day.
Damian Priest and Rey Mysterio were involved in tag-team action on Friday.
Tonight, it's singles competition.
[Corey] What will The Judgment Day and Monday Night Raw look like
when we arrive in Fort Worth, Texas, for night two of the WWE Draft?
It kicks off this Friday night on SmackDown
and it will come to a close in Texas.
You don't want to miss it.
Again, this could be the last time we see Damian Priest
in the foreseeable future on Monday Night Raw.
The same has to be said for Rey Mysterio. The Judgment Day could be split up.
We already know Rhea Ripley is SmackDown Women's Champion.
I would imagine SmackDown's going to want to keep their Women's Champion,
-but who knows? Nothing is certain. -[bell ringing]
[Kevin Patrick] Everybody involved.
Hot start here from Rey Mysterio as the bell rings.
Our main event on Monday Night Raw.
Ooh!
[Corey] The ultimate underdog, Rey Mysterio, not backing down,
throwing hands with a much larger Damian Priest.
Priest with a cheap shot to the throat
and a boot directly to the soul of Rey Mysterio. My goodness.
[Kevin Patrick] What's the strategy for Rey Mysterio
against that force that Damian Priest possesses?
[Corey] Rey needs to do what took Rey to the Hall of Fame.
Rey has the formula figured out.
Rey has literally made a Hall of Fame career
out of being the underdog,
being outsized by everyone he stepped in the ring with.
Damian Priest is a big, big individual, and nasty as the day is long.
Rey's got to find some magic in those boots of his tonight.
[Kevin Patrick] Smart move there from Rey, under the legs he goes.
Rey Mysterio, he told me recently
he's been able to remove emotion from his matches in the ring.
He's well aware of what Damian Priest and The Judgment Day
have done to his son, Dominik.
[Corey] It's been noticeable in Rey's performance,
dating all the way back to WrestleMania,
where he finally put his hands on his son Dominik.
Rey has appeared more focused in the ring.
Oh, my God.
No amount of focus will take the edge off of that agony,
[Kevin Patrick] Crushing the gut and the ribs of Rey Mysterio.
But look at this.
[Corey] This is our backstage area.
He is here.
Bad Bunny is in the Allstate Arena.
[Kevin Patrick] The global sensation that is Bad Bunny.
[Corey] The host of Backlash.
[Kevin Patrick] The Hall of Famer now in a perilous position.
[Corey] Rey fighting as hard out as he does each and every time…
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh. -[Corey] …he steps between the ropes.
[Kevin Patrick] Go on, Rey.
Hooks the leg for the win, and Priest kicks out early.
[Corey] It'll take more than that to keep Damian Priest down for three.
[Kevin Patrick] Do you think Damian Priest is distracted by Bad Bunny?
[Corey] I could understand if that were the case,
but, no, absolutely not.
Priest is ice cold right now, focused on the task at hand,
and that is painfully eliminating a WWE Hall of Famer.
[Kevin Patrick] Rey Mysterio receiving punishment.
[Corey] Physically and verbally.
[Kevin Patrick] Priest now, with his prey on hand.
Rey to the outside.
[Corey] Can the Hall of Famer find his way back into this fight?
[crowd booing]
[Kevin Patrick] A sold-out crowd in Chicago, Illinois, tonight.
One-on-one action Rey Mysterio, Damian Priest.
Moments ago, we saw live footage of Bad Bunny, the global recording artist,
the megastar arriving here at the Allstate Arena with retribution
perhaps in mind for Damian Priest and his attack,
slamming him to the announce desk three weeks ago on Raw.
[Corey] Right now, I don't care how angry you are if you're Bad Bunny.
You're not going to approach Damian Priest in this circumstance
because Priest is wrecking Rey Mysterio right now before our very eyes.
[Kevin Patrick] One of the most ruthless and unforgiving sides of Damian Priest
we've seen in recent months.
[Corey] Priest is a very, very intelligent competitor.
He learns from past mistakes. He's done battle with Rey in the past.
But Priest realizes sometimes you need to change your game plan.
You need to re-strategize.
Oh, no!
Priest got a little too comfortable and Rey made him pay.
[Kevin Patrick] The Hall of Famer using all his experience.
Rey Mysterio, what have you got planned? Taking down Priest.
[Corey] Asai moonsault takes down Priest, but perhaps to the detriment of Rey,
who seems to be favoring his knee for a moment.
[Kevin Patrick] Shoving Priest back inside the ring.
Rey now from the top rope.
Senton taking down Priest, who's back up.
[Corey] Wow!
[Kevin Patrick] Hooks that leg now, Rey Mysterio.
[Corey] Mysterio absolutely timeless in the ring.
Still soaring through the air with the greatest of ease.
Let's take another look at this.
Oh, got to keep your eyes on both sides of the screen.
Rey soaring through the sky,
but just caught Priest between the eyes with a kick.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, Rey putting Damian Priest in position.
Dial it up, Rey.
[commentators exclaim]
Damian Priest to end Rey Mysterio, who's still alive.
[Corey] Rey might need to dial a different number. Perhaps 911, 999,
depending on where you are,
because Rey just got a mouthful of Priest's boot.
Nearly ended this.
[Kevin Patrick] Priest standing over Rey.
[Corey] Utilizing his extensive martial arts background to great effect
thus far is Damian Priest.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, Rey's in a bad position here.
[Corey] Priest has to be careful.
We've seen already within this match-up Damian Priest get a little too confident
and Rey has made him pay with the-- Oh, Rey fighting desperately.
[Kevin Patrick] Rey gets free, takes out the leg of Priest.
[Corey] Smart move.
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh. -[Corey] Wow, wow, wow, wow.
That is scary power by Damian Priest.
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh, man. -[Corey] That may do it.
[Kevin Patrick] That could do it.
Now, Damian Priest to end-- Oh, Rey! Rey kicks out.
[Corey] Look at the frustration washing over the face of Damian Priest.
Priest just needs to stay the course. He is dominating Rey Mysterio right now.
Nearly ended it, but any one of these strikes from Priest
may turn Rey's lights out for good.
[Kevin Patrick] Rey's so resilient, somehow finding a way to kick out.
Somehow, Rey wants to continue. He wants to continue to fight.
[crowd chanting] Let's go, Rey!
[Corey] I don't know what Priest is doing right now.
Okay.
This is about more than the winner's purse.
This is about sending a message to the roster.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
[Corey] Rey Mysterio all together,
but Rey thwarting Priest's plans for the moment.
Both guys have the same idea. It's a race for the chair.
[Rey groaning]
Priest grasping Mysterio about the throat.
[Kevin Patrick] Rey turns it around somehow.
Here we go. Come on, Rey. 619.
Now's the moment.
Mysterio to the top rope.
-[Corey] Oh, God. -[bell ringing]
[Corey] Steel chair to the face of Rey Mysterio.
That's going to force a disqualification. I don't think Damian Priest cares.
[crowd booing]
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, no.
[Corey] South of Heaven.
Priest has been paying fines like it's job lately.
Get your checkbook ready again, Priest.
This is bigger than financials. This is about legacy.
This is about dominance.
["Booker T" playing]
[Corey] Ohh!
Bad Bunny is here with a kendo stick in hand.
[Kevin Patrick] He is walking with intent.
[Corey] Bad Bunny staring a hole through Damian Priest.
Priest standing his ground in the ring.
It feels like it's going to pop off here in Chicago.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] And here we go.
[Kevin Patrick] Just battering Damian Priest with a kendo stick.
[Corey] Bad Bunny, absolutely fearless.
Oh, no.
Priest has Bunny.
-[Kevin Patrick exclaims] -[Corey] Oh, my!
Bad Bunny out here, swinging heavy lumber.
Oh, my God.
[Corey] Good Lord, get out of the way, KP.
-[Kevin Patrick] Watch out. -I'm not trying to die here.
Bunny like a man possessed, and Priest is hightailing it out of here.
[crowd cheering]
Hey, Damian.
I don't know if you know, but I'm not hosting Backlash anymore.
[Damian Priest] Then go home.
Now, I'm going to Puerto Rico to kick your ass.
[crowd cheering]
May 6th, Backlash, en mi casa, Puerto Rico.
Damian Priest, Bad Bunny in a Street Fight.
Cabrón, a ver si es verdad que tú eres hombre.
[in English] I'll kill you in Puerto Rico.
Te voy a tumbar la cabeza.
[in English] You crazy? You're talking to Damian Priest, son.
[Corey] Bad Bunny is headed to San Juan, Puerto Rico,
to kick Damian Priest's ass in a Street Fight?
["Booker T" playing]
[Corey] Are you kidding me?
[Kevin Patrick] Look at this, from the global sensation.
Just battering Damian Priest inside and outside the ring.
He didn't shy away.
[Corey] Bad Bunny is a lot of things, and tonight, Chicago,
we find out he is fearless.
From headlining Coachella
to a collision course at Backlash with Damian Priest.
This is where I work.
I don't come to your house,
but now, in Puerto Rico, I'm going to end you.
I'm going to end your music career.
[Corey] We're heading to Puerto Rico with Bad Bunny, Damian Priest.
You know this means war.
[Damian Priest] We ain't friends.
We're definitely enemies. This is personal. d Bunny, Damian Priest.