[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.
[Kevin Patrick] A look backstage moments ago,
"The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes arriving to--
[Brock] You want to fight?
You want to fight? Come fight.
You want to fight me? Come fight.
Come on.
Let's fight.
Come on.
You ready to fight me, Cody?
You ready to fight me?
Let's fight.
Come on.
[people clamoring]
[Cody screaming]
We knew that there were explosive elements under the same roof tonight,
but it's obvious, Lesnar's in a sanguineous mood.
What a brutal attack on The American Nightmare.
I'm shook.
I want to know what this means. I mean, I don't know.
Obviously, we have a great night of action here ahead of us
here on Monday Night Raw, but--
-[Heyman] Ladies and gentlemen… -What the…
My name is Paul Heyman,
and for the record,
I had nothing to do with that.
[crowd booing]
What you saw is something I can testify to,
is just a mere example
of what Cody Rhodes is in for
this Saturday afternoon at 1:00 p.m.
when he attempts to slay "The Beast" Brock Lesnar.
Now, I understand how much my special appearance on Raw
last week was so well-received.
I have been invited back this week
to enlighten you on my way to The Island of Relevancy.
I stopped by the hellhole known as Hershey, Pennsylvania…
just to hype you on one simple fact.
This Saturday afternoon, there's not one, there's not two,
there are three main events at Night of Champions,
capped off by the historic battle
in which "KO" Kevin Owens
and his miserable rat bastard of a partner, Sami Zayn,
will lose
the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships
back to The Bloodline.
With The Usos sitting proud at home watching on television,
the new Tag Team Champions will be Solo
and your Tribal Chief,
the Undisputed WWE Universal Heavyweight Champion,
Roman Reigns.
[crowd booing]
And now, ladies, gentlemen
and things that live in Pennsylvania…
[crowd booing]
…for the final time ever before this Saturday's Night of Champions,
welcome to Monday Night Raw!
[crowd cheering]
["Fight" playing]
-[crowd cheering] -[Corey] Uh-oh.
Excuse me, Mr. Wiseman, The Prize Fighter would like a word.
One half of the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions,
Kevin Owens, has arrived.
Where are you going, Paul?
["Worlds Apart" playing]
[Corey] And he didn't come alone.
[crowd] Let's go!
[Samantha] Please welcome the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions,
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn!
[Kevin Patrick] The Tag Champions look to be in flying form here
as they come out on Monday Night Raw.
And on Saturday afternoon, they will defend
their Undisputed Tag Titles against Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa.
When they met face-to-face on Friday night,
The Tribal Chief's plan was derailed.
Do you want to know why you're not going to win
the Undisputed Tag Team Championships?
-You're just not as good as us. -[crowd cheering]
I gave you opportunity after opportunity after opportunity.
I try to serve it up for you. You won't even--
I didn't tell you to come out here.
It was a simple plan, my plan, that you don't ever--
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] Later on that night in the main event,
it would be The LWO handing The Usos a loss
with "The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns watching on backstage.
I didn't do anything.
[Corey] Quite simply, this Saturday afternoon,
the stakes could not be higher
in one of three main events at Night of Champions.
Roman Reigns and Solo will join forces
to challenge the Undisputed Tag Team Champions,
Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens.
[crowd vocalizing]
Pretty good, pretty good.
[crowd cheering]
By the way, where did Heyman go?
Where'd he go?
Seriously, I've never seen anyone scurry off so fast like that.
He must think that we have a score to settle
after everything he pulled last week,
but the truth is, Hershey, we're actually feeling pretty good.
[crowd cheering]
We are heading into the biggest possible title defense
that we could have, when, in six days at Night of Champions,
we face the team of Solo Sikoa and Roman Reigns.
[crowd booing]
Look, I've said it before,
I'm not ashamed to say it.
This one is very personal for me.
But there's really nothing left to say because everything I had to say,
I already said it straight to Roman Reigns' face.
Yeah.
Actually, there's something I'd like to say.
Please.
See, a couple of weeks ago, Roman Reigns on SmackDown
dedicated the victory he thinks they'll have at Night of Champions over us.
He dedicated that to The Wild Samoans, Afa and Sika,
and it gave me an idea.
See, it inspired me to do the same.
Tonight, I'd like to officially dedicate our victory at Night of Champions
over Solo and Roman Reigns
to the true pillars of The Bloodline,
Jimmy and Jey Uso.
[crowd cheering]
That's pretty good.
Hey, that's at Night of Champions.
We can't forget that we have business that needs to be taken care of tonight.
[crowd cheering]
Because tonight, we are in six-man tag-team action
against Imperium.
["Symphony No. 9 in E Minor" playing]
-[Corey] Here we go. -You had to know that was going to happen.
[Corey] The Intercontinental Champion, Gunther,
flanked by Giovanni Vinci and Ludwig Kaiser,
collectively known as Imperium.
These three men joined the Monday Night Raw roster
in this year's WWE Draft
and wasted no time making serious waves.
Right now, Zayn and Owens are outgunned by three world-class grapplers.
[Kevin Patrick] Gunther sending Vinci and Kaiser
either side of KO and Sami Zayn.
[Corey] Sami and Kevin standing back to back, trying to fend off the threat.
It's "The Original Bro" Matt Riddle.
[Kevin Patrick] Not for the first time, Riddle to the aid of KO and Sami.
Hey! Come on, dude. It's three-on-three.
[Corey] Whatever mental or physical advantage Imperium was searching for
was just negated by the arrival of The Original Bro,
but these six men will get to cook later tonight.
Wait just a second, Imperium are coming back.
[Kevin Patrick] They mean business.
The Ring General looking to get back inside and hand it to Matt Riddle.
[Corey] Gunther shrugging off Riddle,
and Riddle just rocked the Intercontinental Champion.
The Tag Champs trying to dispatch of The Ring General.
Zayn, Owens and Riddle holding the ring.
Second time's the charm, Gunther.
["Fight" playing]
[Corey] What an electric way to kick things off tonight
on Monday Night Raw,
and we are just getting started.
[Kevin Patrick] You wouldn't want to miss the opening few minutes
of Monday Night Raw ever, especially tonight,
but with Matt Riddle jumping to the aid of KO and Sami,
what does it say about what's to come later tonight?
That was a preview, the melee we just witnessed.
Just imagine when this six men can legally put hands on one another
in six-man tag-team action,
because that is coming your way.
Zayn, Owens and Riddle versus Imperium tonight.
[Kevin Patrick] With Night of Champions rapidly approaching Saturday afternoon,
WWE Hall of Famer is back on Monday Night Raw tonight
tonight to sign on the dotted line, as is "The Man" Becky Lynch.
The contract signing to come for Night of Champions.
[Corey] And quite simply a dream match for many,
two of the best Superstars on the Monday Night Raw roster,
"The King of Strong Style" Shinsuke Nakamura
goes one-on-one with "The Prince" Finn Bálor of The Judgment Day.
[Kevin Patrick] And who will be crowned the new World Heavyweight Champion?
We're going to find out a lot more about Seth "Freakin" Rollins tonight,
who is set to take on AJ Styles on Saturday.
A deeper dive into your chat, Corey, with Rollins to come.
["It's About to Go Down" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Samantha] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from Las Vegas, Nevada,
weighing in at 207 lbs,
Ricochet!
[Kevin Patrick] Ricochet will always light up any arena around the world,
drafted to Monday Night Raw, and he is set to go in one-on-one action
here to kick off Raw.
[Corey] Ricochet highly motivated tonight,
feeling like he led an opportunity slip through his fingers last week
to become the contender for the Intercontinental Title.
[Kevin Patrick] That's right, both Ricochet and Bronson Reed
were outstanding in the Battle Royal last week,
to make it to Night of Champions and challenge Gunther.
It wasn't to be, but they go one-on-one next on Raw.
Earlier on tonight, backstage,
the bloodthirsty and savage Brock Lesnar would attack Cody Rhodes,
his opponent in a few days at Night of Champions.
[Corey] Lesnar would unleash an absolutely ruthless assault
at the expense of Cody Rhodes.
You want to fight me?
Come fight. Come on.
[Corey] To punctuate the attack with this, this is not for the faint of heart.
Cody Rhodes' arm trapped between a rolling door and an empty keg.
Lesnar means business.
[Cody screaming]
Right now, we're waiting for a medical update on Cody Rhodes
and the injuries he sustained
at the hands of Brock Lesnar earlier on tonight.
Now, at this time, it's not clear if Cody Rhodes
will be able to compete at Night of Champions.
Adam, a moment of your time.
Any update on Cody?
Actually, Byron, he's still being evaluated.
Frankly, I don't have any information to give up at this point,
-so excuse me. -Well, hold on, Adam, there is a rumor
going around that Cody may have suffered a broken arm.
As I said, I don't have any information at this time.
Thank you.
[Corey] We'll do our best to keep you posted
on the condition of The American Nightmare
as it becomes available, but right now, we are preparing for one-on-one action
between Ricochet and this behemoth.
["Battle Tested" playing]
[Samantha] And his opponent, from Black Forest, South Australia,
weighing in at 330 lbs,
Bronson Reed!
[Kevin Patrick] Last week on Raw, both Bronson Reed and Ricochet
were so impressive in the Battle Royal to determine who faces Gunther
for the Intercontinental Championship at Night of Champions,
and this is how the final moments played out.
[Corey] Ricochet was attempting to build momentum
and had the big man Bronson Reed reeling.
Ricochet would utilize all of his power along with Mustafa Ali,
but the shockingly agile Reed
would stop himself from being eliminated
and put him and Ricochet in an extremely precarious position,
which allowed Ali to capitalize
and earn the opportunity to challenge Gunther
for the Intercontinental Championship this Saturday.
The man who should be facing "The Ring General" Gunther
at Night of Champions for the Intercontinental Championship
is Bronson Reed, but last week, I didn't win the Battle Royal,
and that was because of one man, Ricochet.
And what you are going to learn tonight, Ricochet,
is that actions have consequences,
and you will suffer,
and so will anyone else on Raw who gets in my way.
[Corey] Bronson Reed has proven to be a human steamroller
since arriving here on Monday Night Raw.
-Reed is all business. -[bell ringing]
He's dealing with one of the best in the world in Ricochet.
[Kevin Patrick] What's Ricochet's strategy against a behemoth like Bronson Reed?
[Corey] Ricochet will want to stick with his bread and butter,
which is his aerial attack, utilize his speed,
try to stay out of the grasp of the much stronger powerhouse, Bronson Reed.
[Kevin Patrick] Bronson Reed refers to himself as "a walking natural disaster."
[Corey] Ricochet out of harm's way just in time,
and now, Ricochet, heavy rights and lefts.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh! Ricochet going for the left knee of Bronson Reed.
[Corey] Smart move, trying to chop down the big man, but to no avail.
Ricochet now attacking the back of the knee.
[Kevin Patrick] Ricochet clearly has his strategy coming in,
working so far, as Bronson Reed looks a little rocked here.
[Corey] Ricochet wanted the baseball slide and just stuffed by Reed.
Enzuigiri takes the big man down to one knee.
[Kevin Patrick] This could be the moment for Ricochet.
[crowd cheering]
Feeding off the energy of the WWE Universe.
[Corey] Ricochet has never met a challenge he did not like.
Such is the case tonight.
Oh, my God.
[Kevin Patrick] Reed, just flattening Ricochet.
[Corey] And the steamroller by Reed.
Ricochet finds himself in jeopardy.
[Kevin Patrick] We heard from Bronson Reed moments ago,
he's talking the talk, but, man, is he walking that walk as well.
[Corey] I've been extremely impressed,
as has the majority of the WWE universe, by The Big Aussie.
Look out, Ricochet, impending doom.
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh, no! -[Corey] My God.
Ricochet's done.
[Kevin Patrick] Is there any way back for Ricochet tonight?
It is my Monday night.
[Corey] Look at the power of "The Colossal" Bronson Reed,
letting all the blood rush to the head of Ricochet.
The One and Only in jeopardy, but delivering knees,
trying to fight his way out of the grasp of this monstrous Superstar.
[Kevin Patrick] Ricochet is creative, resilient,
but tonight against Bronson Reed, and he continues to rally,
but the power of Reed.
[Corey] Goodbye, Ricochet.
[Kevin Patrick] Cover. Bronson Reed now to put away Ricochet,
and he kicks out at two.
[Corey] This is a testament to the toughness and fortitude of Ricochet
being able to survive this force of nature.
Bronson Reed launching Ricochet into the barricade
with a shoulder block off of the apron.
[Kevin Patrick] 330 lbs of pure power clattering into Ricochet.
[Corey] There's absolutely no quit inside of Ricochet.
[Kevin Patrick] What a victory this would be for Ricochet if he can get it,
given the momentum we've seen Bronson Reed enjoy.
[Corey] Both Ricochet and Bronson Reed
would love a future opportunity at the Intercontinental Championship.
The opportunity that evaded both of them last week.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
[Corey] Dropkick to the knee yet again.
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] The strategy, effective.
Raining down blows now on Reed.
[Corey] It's a great strategy by Ricochet who just attempted to hang tough,
to drag this match out, try to exhaust the bigger man.
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh. -[Corey] Superkick on the jaw,
Reed is rocked.
[Kevin Patrick] Somehow still stable.
Oh.
[Corey] I don't know what Ricochet is unleashing inside Reed,
but it didn't look good, but Ricochet--
Oh, my God.
[Kevin Patrick] That must be devastating for Ricochet,
the kick-out from Reed, but Ricochet coming back for more.
[Corey] Ricochet throwing everything he can dream up at the powerhouse,
but caught in the grasp.
[Kevin Patrick] Watch out.
He's angered Bronson Reed.
Oh.
[Corey] One massive swipe of Reed's arm stopped Ricochet dead in his tracks,
and yet again, The One and Only sent to the outside.
-This is gonna be ugly. -[Kevin Patrick] Oh, no.
[Corey] It's déjà vu all over again.
-Oh! -[Kevin Patrick] Oh, no!
What?
[Corey] Ricochet able to stop Reed in midair with a thunderous knee.
Can Ricochet muscle Reed back inside as we look again?
[Kevin Patrick] When you think you've seen it all.
Ricochet now energized.
[Corey] Caught Reed again on the side of the jaw.
Ricochet looking to dig down deep.
Reed yet a step ahead.
-[Kevin Patrick] Now, Bronson Reed-- -[Corey] Oh, my goodness.
[Kevin Patrick] Pulverized Ricochet.
[Corey] Drilling Ricochet with a powerslam,
and this could be the beginning of the end for The One and Only.
[Kevin Patrick] The Aussie Destroyer dragging across his prey.
[Corey] From the top, Tsunami.
[Kevin Patrick] Hooks that leg. Bronson Reed puts away Ricochet.
[bell ringing]
["Battle Tested" playing]
[Samantha] Here is your winner, Bronson Reed!
[Corey] Just as quickly as Ricochet began to turn the tides of this match-up,
Bronson Reed turned them right back in his own favor.
Look at the quickness of the 330-plus-pounder,
but most importantly, the impact on the earthshaking Tsunami
all the way from the top rope, crushing Ricochet.
[Kevin Patrick] How impressive is Bronson Reed?
An emphatic victory against the former United States
and intercontinental Champion in Ricochet.
[Corey] Tonight, thus far, has belonged to the behemoths.
Bronson Reed in this instance,
and as we saw earlier tonight,
Brock Lesnar's brutal attack on The American Nightmare.
Again, we'll do our best to keep you posted on the condition of Cody Rhodes
as tonight progresses.
What a win for Bronson Reed.
Please welcome my guest at this time,
making his return to Monday Night Raw, Apollo Crews.
Ooh! What's up, Cathy?
Long time, no see.
Look, before we get started, I just want to say I hope Cody's okay
because that looked rough, but otherwise,
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't excited to be ba--
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
Cathy, what are you doing?
This is Mami's interview time.
I'm sorry about the confusion, Dom,
but Rhea was actually slated for after Apollo Crews.
Apollo who?
Apollo Crews.
Don't act like you don't know who I am.
I'm everything that you're not.
Whatever, man. Cathy, this interview's over.
Mami's a very busy woman and she's got something to say.
Thank you, Dom Dom.
Natalya, you've had a very legendary career here in the WWE,
but you decided to get in my way.
So, this Saturday afternoon at Night of Champions,
I'm going to make an example out of you.
I'm going to make you not only regret getting drafted to Raw,
but I'm going to end your legendary career.
[Apollo] Excuse me.
Look, no disrespect, Rhea.
I know you're the champ and everything, but this is my interview.
You don't interrupt Mami.
Well, I just did.
The question is, what are you going to do about it?
What is he going to do about it?
He's going to remind you exactly who runs Monday Night Raw.
Right, Dom Dom?
Yeah. That's right.
All right. I can't wait to see you try.
[Kevin Patrick] You got to love that, from Apollo Crews.
["Visionary" playing]
Well, coming up next here on Monday Night Raw,
part three of the Seth Rollins sit-down with Corey Graves,
and Seth Rollins didn't hold back with his feelings on a certain Superstar.
It's cannot-miss and it's next.
[Corey] Welcome back to Monday Night Raw, and as we approach the finals
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament
this Saturday at Night of Champions,
Seth Rollins has been very open about his quest for change in WWE.
What we're about to hear from Rollins
will certainly make waves on The Island of Relevancy.
[Rollins] Now is the perfect time for a new World Heavyweight Championship,
and we can do it the way it's supposed to be done.
With that answer, I've got to ask,
what are your thoughts on Roman Reigns
and his Undisputed Universal Championship reign?
[sighs]
I love Roman Reigns…
but I don't like Roman Reigns.
-That's brotherhood, right? -Right.
[Rollins] I will always have love for that man.
When everybody in the world had made us their enemies,
Roman was there for me, but the person he has become…
Acknowledge me!
…and the champion he has become,
I've got no respect for that.
This whole industry, this whole business runs off of me.
I just think he's been poisoned by his own ego,
and the biggest thing is that championship.
He's taking opportunities away from everybody else.
That's about as selfish as you can be.
I want to become World Heavyweight Champion
so that we can all forget about Roman Reigns.
What does Monday Night Raw look like if Seth "Freakin" Rollins
is the World Heavyweight Champion
and how is it different from what we've grown to know with Roman on top?
It can be the land of opportunity.
It can be the catalyst for change. It can push the industry forward.
Because I'm going to be around and I want challengers.
I want to know who wants my spot
and I want them to come try to take it from me.
Somebody's got to carry the torch when I'm gone, when Roman's gone.
Who's that going to be? I want to know.
That's what I want.
But you need to get through "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles,
first and foremost.
You've competed with AJ in the past, but these are arguably the highest stakes.
[hopeful music playing]
[Rollins] AJ Styles is unquestionably
one of the greatest in-ring performers of all time.
You opened this interview by saying that I am a once-in-a-generation talent.
AJ might argue that and I might argue that for him.
He truly is special.
[Corey] We've got Styles and Rollins at Night of Champions.
But AJ Styles and I have done this dance before.
[AJ Styles] I know it was years and years ago,
but I do remember thinking after the match like, "Holy cow."
[crowd cheering]
He's literally going to be a Superstar one day,
and, well, I was right.
I see no reason why Night of Champions will be any different.
I am at the top of my game.
No one can touch me right now.
And I don't want to jinx myself, but I'm feeling pretty invincible.
Seth, throughout your career, you've held every championship in WWE.
You're about to compete in the finals to crown a new World Heavyweight Champion.
Your résumé speaks for itself.
Why is Night of Champions different?
Why is the World Heavyweight Championship so special to Seth Rolins?
This is it, man.
[Kevin Patrick] More to come from that chat with Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
But Saturday afternoon, 1:00 p.m. Eastern start time.
Landscape-shifting history will be made in WWE.
Will it be Seth "Freakin" Rollins or "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles
becoming the new World Heavyweight Champion?
Two generation-defying athletes
competing for the World Heavyweight Championship this Saturday, 1:00 p.m.
Special start time.
Night of Champions, you are not want to miss this.
This match is going to be talked about for years.
Down to two Superstars, Corey, that want to compete in that match to become
the new World Heavyweight Champion.
Shinsuke Nakamura and Finn Bálor set for one-on-one action tonight.
And this match came about as Damian Priest last week on Raw Talk,
clearly had a cross to bear with Shinsuke Nakamura.
And while we're at it, last week,
this fool lost
and cost me my shot at the World Heavyweight Championship.
Oh. [laughs]
Are you going to cry about it?
How you cry
after you lost to Bad Bunny?
I'll make you cry right now!
Whoa, whoa, whoa. Relax, big man, relax.
Hey, listen.
We just beat the Undisputed tag-team Champions
in the middle of the ring.
And Dom and Rhea are waiting for us.
So, let's tranquillo, go have a little sip of tequila.
-We'll deal with this clown next week. -Sounds good.
Sayonara.
Behind me, you see Damian Priest and Finn Bálor of the Judgment Day
Going to attempt to get a word with Finn.
-Excuse me, Finn. -Byron.
You're just going to intrude. Like he's not getting ready for a match.
[speaking Spanish]
[in English] Whoa, tranquillo, big man. Tranquillo, I got this.
Listen, Byron, first of all,
I would like you to congratulate me and Damian here on our victory
over the Undisputed Tag Team Champions last week.
Well, congratulations to you both.
Yeah, yeah, whatever. Listen.
Tonight, I face Shinsuke Nakamura.
Now, Shinsuke cost my man, Damian, here
an opportunity at the World Heavyweight Championship.
And not only that.
To take it a step further,
he rubbed salt in the wounds last week by disrespecting Damian.
Now, if you disrespect one member of the Judgment Day,
you disrespect all members
of the Judgment Day.
And for that, he will pay.
So, tonight,
after I'm done mopping the floor with Shinsuke Nakamura,
if he's lucky,
I'll leave just a little bit of him left over
so Damian here can pick the bones.
[crowd cheering]
Thank you.
[Corey] Fighting words from Finn Bálor.
["Wickeder Ways" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Samantha] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first from Riverside, California,
Candice LeRae!
[Kevin Patrick] Well, "The Plucky Poison Pixie" Candice LeRae is all smiles now.
Will that be the case in just a few minutes time?
Because she's going up against Zoey Stark,
next on Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] The Poison Pixie better grit her teeth.
The heavy hitter coming her way.
[Stark] They say greatness comes from humble beginnings.
From working day in and day out and giving it your all
and being the least important person inside of a room.
That is until, one day, you change it.
Until one day, you become indisputable.
See, that's exactly what I am.
I'm clear,
calculated and vicious.
You're not going to like me.
I'm going to take all of your favorite Superstars,
all of your idols,
and I'm going to tear them apart.
I'm going to expose all of their weaknesses.
The time of heroes is over.
[music intensifies]
And the Zoey Stark era begins.
["Cut Above the Rest" playing]
[Corey] A true force to be reckoned with on Monday Night Raw.
[Samantha] And her opponent, from Las Vegas, Nevada,
Zoey Stark!
[Corey] She is clear, she is calculated and she is vicious.
[Kevin Patrick] Corey, we are days now,
Saturday afternoon, from Night of Champions.
But on Friday, at noon Eastern Time, that's 9:00 a.m. Pacific,
make sure you're watching The Night of Champions Press Conference
live from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, across all of WWE's social platforms.
Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, you name it.
[Corey] Don't miss it. This is gonna be a landscape-shifting event.
Saturday, again, special 1:00 p.m. Eastern start time,
streaming on WWE on Peacock, Night of Champions.
And here we go.
Zoey start wasting no time looking for the upper hand.
[Kevin Patrick] We heard fighting words moments ago from Zoey Stark.
We saw her in action a couple of weeks ago on Monday Night Raw against Nikki Cross.
Destroying Nikki on the night and then, some would say,
bully tactics behind the scenes,
which is why we have the match tonight.
Candice LeRae leaping to the defense of Nikki Cross.
-[Corey] Oh, my goodness! -[Kevin Patrick] Zoey didn't like it.
[Corey] Brutal suplex by Zoey Stark.
And this is how you get the upper hand out of the gate.
Zoey Stark
wasting absolutely no time bringing the fight to The Poison--
[Kevin Patrick] Wait a second! Cover, looking for the victory early.
Kick-out by Candice.
[Corey] You heard Zoey in the video package before the match
declare how vicious she is, and…
Zoey is proving to be as advertised.
Brutality,
which seems to be the theme of the night tonight,
on Monday Night Raw.
Again, we'll do our best to keep you updated
on "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhode's condition
after that vicious attack at the hands
of Brock Lesnar at the start of the night. Here is Nikki Cross.
Candice's…
I… What is she to Candice?
-Are they friends… -[Kevin Patrick] I still have no clue.
[Corey] I mean, to me, it seems like a one-sided relationship.
Like, Nikki is really into it.
Candice is just trying not to break her heart, you know?
[Kevin Patrick] She's feeling for her, sticking up for Nikki.
-Nikki arriving on the scene. -[Corey] Like it's a pity party.
[Kevin Patrick] Little bundle of chaos, Nikki Cross, watching on.
As Candice LeRae now, that Plucky Poison Pixie.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] I had a chance to talk to Zoey earlier, and she was--
-[both] Oh! -[Corey] Careful to point out
the stark contrast, pun heavily intended,
between herself and Candice LeRae,
saying, "Candice is a mother these days."
"She's been more focused on her baby and getting her family back together."
But right now, LeRae bringing the fight to Zoey Stark,
one of the newest arrivals in Raw's Women's Division.
Candice LeRae on fire right now!
[Kevin Patrick] She's motoring, Candice LeRae,
looking to get Zoey back inside the ring.
You're spot-on.
-What is Nikki doing? -[Corey] Being a derelict.
[both] Oh!
[Corey] And Zoey takes them both out.
I love it.
Stark unleashing the heavy artillery on Candice LeRae and Nikki Cross.
And this could be the beginning of the end
for Candice's fairy tale.
Boom, Z-360.
[Kevin Patrick] And the cover with it.
-And it's Zoe Stark… -[bell ringing]
…making another statement here on Monday Night Raw.
[Samantha] Here's your winner, Zoey Stark!
[Corey] Been telling y'all, KP, Zoey Stark is the real deal.
The genuine article.
And Zoey wasting no time putting Raw's Women's Division on notice.
[Kevin Patrick] It's what could have been.
You have to think about Nikki Cross and her intervention with that Z-360.
[Corey] I'm not thinking about Nikki Cross,
and neither is Candice LeRae right now.
Candice is watching the birds spin around her head
because Zoey just turned her lights out.
And the action continues tonight
in big-time six-man tag-team action,
as the Undisputed Tag Champs, Owens and Zayn,
join forces with Riddle to battle Imperium,
tonight.
[Kevin Patrick] If you haven't seen Fast X,
get out to the theater and enjoy it.
Costarring WWE Superstar John Cena, it's the number-one movie in the world
in its opening weekend, grossing $320,000,000.
Congratulations to John Cena and, of course, Bautista as well.
All the success that we've seen
from Guardians of the Galaxy: Volume 3.
[Corey] How is that for a one-two punch?
WWE taking over Hollywood!
Welcome back to Monday Night Raw, everyone,
where you can see I'm joined by Mustafa Ali.
And Ali, I wanted to ask you about where your emotions are at right now
as you prepare for the biggest match of your career
this Saturday afternoon at Night of Champions,
where you challenge the Intercontinental Champion,
"The Ring General" Gunther.
Listen, I, uh…
I…
[sighs]
You know what? I'm sorry. I can't do this.
I mean, I know you're probably expecting some quote about positivity, right?
But, listen, this is just way too real for me.
Byron, I've been dreaming about this since I was a kid.
Dreaming about doing something great, dreaming about becoming a champion.
But if you look back at my career, I haven't even come close to that.
I mean, it's been failure, after failure, after failure,
and no one believes that I can defeat Gunther
and become the Intercon--
[crowd cheering]
Get a life, kid.
[Corey] The Beast Incarnate is here.
The most decorated athlete in combat sports history,
and the man who assaulted The American Nightmare
to begin the evening.
[Kevin Patrick] But there's such an eerie, frightened feel
about the arena here tonight, Corey. You could sense it
as Lesnar emerged after what played out here earlier on tonight.
I'm on edge. I know you are too.
["Next Big Thing" playing]
[Corey] Lesnar not wasting any time.
Perhaps we'll get an explanation
for the attack earlier tonight.
We know Lesnar is slated, currently, to battle Cody Rhodes
this Saturday at Night of Champions.
[Corey] And we're still awaiting an update on the condition
of The American Nightmare.
-[crowd cheering] -[music stops]
[crowd booing]
[crowd chanting] Cody! Cody! Cody!
So, Hershey.
What do you want to talk about?
[mixed cheers and boos]
I would boo Cody too.
Unfortunately, Cody will not be out here tonight.
[crowd booing]
Cody will not be fighting Brock Lesnar
at Night of Champions this Saturday either.
[crowd booing]
But don't you worry.
Brock Lesnar will not let you down.
I'm gonna issue an open challenge
for anybody back there to fight me
at Night of Champions.
All you gotta do is step out here…
and step up
to Brock Lesnar.
[crowd cheering]
[cheering intensifies]
[mic thuds]
[Corey] Cody cannot be serious. Listen.
Cody, no, listen…
[crowd chanting] Cody! Cody! Cody!
[Corey] Cody can't seriously be doing this.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Cody, don't do this. It's not worth it.
[indistinct chatter]
[Kevin Patrick] He's doing it. He's doing the damn thing.
[Corey] But the Kimura is in.
Lesnar's going to break Cody's arm if it's not already broken.
Let him go, Brock! Let him go!
[Corey] Get some help out here!
Brock's gonna end his career!
[screams in pain]
[Brock] You wanna fight me?
Come on, Cody. Fight me.
Fight me! Fight me!
Okay, fight!
Fight!
[screams in pain]
[Corey] I think Lesnar just broke his arm.
God!
[Cody groaning loudly]
[crowd jeering]
-[Cody groans] -Please.
[Cody groans]
[crowd booing]
[Pearce] Stretcher! Get me medical!
Get me medical now!
[crowd booing]
[Cody groaning]
[Pearce] Get me medical!
-I need medical! -[Cody groans] Oh, God!
[Pearce] Bring him around from the back. Let's go.
[Cody groans]
[Kevin Patrick] After Brock Lesnar's attack on Cody Rhodes earlier tonight,
The Beast said that Cody Rhodes wouldn't be available to compete,
but out stepped The American Nightmare.
[Corey] Cody Rhodes, already possessing an injured arm.
What we learned was that Cody Rhodes, "The American Nightmare,"
possesses guts to a fault.
Cody attempted to stand his ground and fight off The Beast Incarnate.
But Lesnar would cinch in a Kimura submission.
And what happens to Cody's arm is absolutely difficult to watch.
[Brock] You wanna fight me?
Come on, Cody. Fight me.
Fight me!
Okay. Fight!
Fight!
[Corey] Just right there at the end, the pop.
I guess we're going to await a medical update
on the condition of The American Nightmare.
But, as pertains to Saturday at Night of Champions,
things certainly looked bleak for The American Nightmare.
And a satisfied grin…
[Pearce] Get me medical now!
…on the face of Brock Lesnar.
[crowd booing]
You can't help but respect the bravery, the gutsiness of Cody Rhodes.
But I think Cody, in this instance, simply bitten off more than he can chew.
He was overwhelmed by a very angry Brock Lesnar.
The savage predator that is Brock Lesnar knows no bounds.
As you mentioned, we will give you an update on the health
and the safety of Cody Rhodes, if we can throughout the show.
["Shoooosh" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Samantha] The following is a tag-team match scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by Maxxine Dupri,
Chad Gable and Otis,
Alpha Academy!
[Kevin Patrick] Graves, I say it every week.
It's getting a little bit awkward.
I'm not sure what to make of this trident
now that Maxxine Dupri has herself wrapped around the arm of Otis.
[Corey] 'Cause you've never been
in a successful relationship in your entire adult life, KP.
The way I see it, Maxxine is slowly developing into the glue
that holds The Academy together.
Right now, all I'm seeing is stars, my friend.
[Kevin Patrick] Maxxine sees Otis as picturesque and strikingly handsome.
[Corey] Maxxine appreciates the potential, the beauty within the number-one guy
of The Alpha Academy, who just so happens to be
one of the most dangerous humans walking the planet Earth.
As is his partner, Olympian Chad Gable.
Thank you!
[Corey] And a unique threat in the way of the Alpha Academy tonight.
["Vicious" playing]
[woman] Valhalla is here.
[Samantha] And their opponents,
accompanied to the ring by Valhalla, at a combined weight of 590 lbs,
Erik and Ivar, The Viking Raiders!
[Kevin Patrick] Valhalla known to talk to the gods
and then pass on that message
to The Viking Raiders, Erik and Ivar.
[Corey] Whatever it is Valhalla is receiving
has been extremely effective for The Viking Raiders, Erik and Ivar,
two of the most physical Superstars, in all of WWE.
A dominant, dangerous duo any night of the week.
[Kevin Patrick] Never a wasted movement with these two.
Always about how much pain they can inflict
with Valhalla instructing from ringside.
[Corey] I apologize, KP.
I can't necessarily concentrate on…
I'm still concerned about the condition of Cody Rhodes at the moment.
We just witnessed a second a brutal attack at the hands of Brock Lesnar.
Again, we'll do our best to keep you all updated
on the condition of The American Nightmare as it becomes available.
[Kevin Patrick] Cody Rhodes may very well have a broken arm,
after what transpired moments ago.
But here we go. Tag-team action.
The Alpha Academy with Maxxine Dupri by their side against The Viking Raiders,
recently drafted to Monday Night Raw.
And Valhalla watching on.
[Corey] Chad Gable.
Just a pleasure to watch, a true technician inside the ring.
But look at the power of Erik of The Viking Raiders.
[Kevin Patrick] This is a tag-team duo that ran through The New Day,
defeated Ricochet and Braun Strowman
went to war against Sheamus and Drew McIntyre recently.
Such an accomplished duo of Erik and Ivar, The Viking Raiders.
[Corey] And Erik is just stuffing the headscissor attempt of Gable.
He did for a moment.
[Kevin Patrick] Chad Gable.
You mentioned how athletic he is
and his accomplishments, so methodical as well.
How creepy is Valhalla?
I gotta be careful how loud I say this.
[Corey] Sorry, I'm sending a text to… Oh!
…some of my contacts backstage,
see if we can't get any sort of further updates.
And an epic forearm from Erik.
-[Kevin Patrick] Tag made. -[Corey] Stops the momentum.
And here comes Ivar, a man well over 300 lbs
who moves like a man half his size.
And again, another look at that tooth-rattling impact
from the forearm from Erik.
[Kevin Patrick] I've heard you say it about Ivar.
Yeah, well over 300 lbs.
The duo combined, 590 lbs.
But it's the athleticism as well
of The Viking Raiders that always impresses.
[Corey] You're absolutely right.
You see the number-one guy in The Academy, Otis, eager to join the battle right now.
The Vikings have done a tremendous job
cutting the ring in half, my goodness!
[Kevin Patrick] And that may do it.
Erik hooks the leg and Chad Gable kicking out.
[Corey] Outrageous impact and an overabundance of malice
behind every strike offered by The Viking Raiders.
Case in point. Erik and Ivar nearly earning the W there.
You can hear the WWE Universe is eager to see Otis in action.
[Kevin Patrick] At Night of Champions Saturday afternoon,
Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa
hoping to become the Undisputed Tag Team Champions.
You can be sure that both of these tag teams
would love to be in that conversation.
-[Corey] Cover here. -[Kevin Patrick] Cover.
[Corey] The look of concern on the face of Maxxine Dupri
as she watches Chad Gable being dismantled by the powerhouse Ivar.
[Kevin Patrick] Chad Gable with nowhere to go.
[Corey] The intensity in the eyes of Ivar.
[Kevin Patrick] Notice the look to Valhalla.
Always receiving instruction.
[Chad and Ivar groan]
[Kevin Patrick] Gable now, taking out Erik on one side and Ivar on the other.
[Corey] Gable desperately fighting toward his corner, but…
thwarted by Ivar.
Gable escaping out of the back door.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, nearly there.
[Chad groans]
[Kevin Patrick] Chad Gable evading the danger. Tag made.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] There's a lot of beef in the ring right now.
[Kevin Patrick] We saw a standoff between those two in the Battle Royal
last week on Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] My God. Otis with a spinning back elbow,
and Otis just bodyslammed Ivar.
That is a rare sight here in WWE.
Erik crushed in the corner.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Maxxine lit up like a Christmas tree.
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh, yes. Yes! -[Corey] Maybe it's true.
[Kevin Patrick] The Caterpillar.
[Corey] I heard it makes Maxxine feel some type of way.
[Kevin Patrick] Everybody in Pennsylvania as well.
Go on, Otis.
[Corey] Otis, face-first into the turnbuckle.
Gable had the wherewithal to tag himself in. Ivar is down.
Can Gable muster the power…
Erik coming to the aid of his tag partner
Erik legal, and just kneed Gable into next month.
That's not legal. Protect them.
[Valhalla growls]
[Corey] Careful, Maxxine.
[Maxxine screaming]
[Kevin Patrick] Maxxine creeped out--
[Corey] Gable just kicked Ivar off the top! O'Connor roll with a bridge!
[Kevin Patrick] Gable could to do it here.
Chad Gable gets the victory for The Academy.
[Samantha] Here are your winners. Alpha Academy!
[Corey] Let's call Maxxine "Lady Liberty"
because she just led The Academy to the promised land.
Intentional or not…
The Master beat you!
…the desired result was achieved.
Gable and Otis with a massive win over a furious pair of Viking Raiders.
Did she touch you?
[indistinct shouting from Erik and Ivar]
I am standing by, hoping to get another update
on the condition of Cody Rhodes here tonight.
-Adam, Adam! -Byron, not now.
[indistinct shouting]
I don't need anyone looking at me. Out, out, all of you.
I need no help! There's nothing to talk about.
Get out of here!
[Corey] It seems as though Rhodes has no interest in medical attention.
["The Rising Sun" playing]
[Corey] As a friend, as a human being,
I urge Cody to get looked at, get medical attention.
This could be career-threating.
[crowd vocalizing]
[Corey] You can feel the energy shift inside the GIANT Center
with the arrival of The King of Strong Style.
[Kevin Patrick] How infectious is Shinsuke Nakamura?
[Samantha] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from Kyoto, Japan, weighting in at 220 lbs,
Shinsuke Nakamura!
[fireworks pop]
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] The King of Strong Style has arrived on Monday Night Raw,
and he has been rolling.
Can he continue with his winning ways
against a man that he's known for over 15 years,
Finn Bálor of The Judgment Day?
Next.
[Jinder] Last week, was the first day of the end
for many Superstars.
Veer and Sanga are forces of nature.
The thunder is crashing. Lightning is clashing.
The storm… is here.
So what happens next?
On Monday Night Raw… [speaking Hindi]
[Kevin Patrick in English] Explosive and ruthless. Watch out.
Led by "The Maharaja" Jinder Mahal.
[Corey] We are in the presence of royalty.
"The King of Strong Style" Shinsuke Nakamura, ready for battle.
["I Am Danger" playing]
[Samantha] And his opponent,
accompanied to the ring by Damian Priest,
representing The Judgment Day,
Finn Bálor!
[Kevin Patrick] Of course, Damian Priest accompanies Finn Bálor.
It was Priest that claims that Shinsuke Nakamura cost his shot
at the World Heavyweight Championship.
Here in the same match
in which Seth "Freakin" Rollins advanced in the Triple Threat.
[Corey] Certainly a legitimate cause to fight somebody.
Bálor feels like Nakamura stood in his way of championship success.
Either way, we have got a potential dream match
on our hands right now, Nakamura and Finn Bálor,
two men who had very similar career paths.
Really carving out legacies in Japan prior to arriving here in WWE.
And continuing those legacies in front of a whole new global audience.
[Kevin Patrick] I had a chance to catch up with Shinsuke Nakamura,
and he told me that about the relationship of over 15 years now, Corey.
But he said, "Make no mistake about it."
"I have no friends here on Monday Night Raw."
"You won't see anybody by my side."
Alluding to the fact that he may be outnumbered
if Priest was to emerge.
[Corey] Well, Nakamura is gonna need eyes
in the back of his head in this one, as pertains to Damian Priest.
But you're right, Shinsuke Nakamura sort of a lone wolf in his own right.
Always done things his own way
oozing confidence and charisma, a truly lethal human being.
[Kevin Patrick] You've alluded that
you think he's taken his game to a new level, Shinsuke Nakamura.
[Corey] I think Shinsuke Nakamura is going to benefit greatly
from a change of scenery
after being drafted here to Monday Night Raw.
But then again, Finn Bálor would love to continue his ascent up the rankings.
The Judgment Day have lived up to their word
and truly run Monday Night Raw in recent weeks.
Bálor, no small part of that.
[Kevin Patrick] And last week, the main event of Monday Night Raw
was Priest and Bálor defeating
the Undisputed Tag Team Champions, KO and Sami Zayn.
[Corey] I like the healthy, professional respect being displayed
in the early moments of this match-up.
Neither man looking for too high of a risk.
Both men, world-class grapplers.
Finn Bálor may actually have the grappling advantage.
Although, Shinsuke, very well-versed in multiple martial arts,
including Brazilian jujitsu.
It could be more of a chess match.
Both Superstars are waiting for the other to make a mistake.
When you've got two Superstars as talented as Bálor and Nakamura,
you may only get one mistake in a match-up like this.
[Kevin Patrick] Finn Bálor in control, as Shinsuke looks for a way out,
and turning it around.
[Corey] Side headlock takeover by Nakamura. Bálor escapes.
Pace quickening just slightly.
Neither man wanting to make that first error,
which could be the game changer in a match-up like this.
And Bálor now, driving his calf multiple times.
[Kevin Patrick] After pulling on the hair of Shinsuke Nakamura,
giving him that advantage.
Bring the pain now. Bring the pain.
[Kevin Patrick] "Bring the pain," says The Punishment of The Judgment Day,
-Damian Priest. -[Nakamura screams]
[Corey] It seems odd to say, when you're talking of Finn Bálor,
the man who's the first-ever Universal Champion here in WWE,
Bálor has become better and more dangerous
since aligning himself with The Judgment Day.
You can credit the numbers game, but Bálor never afraid to put in work on his own.
But Nakamura…
[Kevin Patrick] You could absolutely make that argument for every member
of The Judgment Day, that, individually, they've all grown and evolved here in WWE.
[Corey] Nakamura now, trying to place Bálor on the top turnbuckle.
Finn in all types of trouble.
Here comes Shinsuke!
Burying a knee into the breadbasket of Bálor.
And a sliding dropkick sends The Prince to the outside.
[Kevin Patrick] Shinsuke Nakamura told Damian Priest where to go,
as he chucks Finn Bálor back inside the squared circle.
You shut it!
[Kevin Patrick] Finn Bálor so rapid with his offensive arsenal,
but being matched now by Shinsuke.
[Corey] Uh-oh. What is Nakamura thinking here?
This could not end well for Bálor.
Oh, no! And Priest!
Damian Priest just flattened Shinsuke Nakamura.
Can The King of Strong Style get back in this?
[Kevin Patrick] We're in Pennsylvania tonight. A sold-out crowd
at the GIANT Center.
One-on-one action here,
as Finn Bálor is in control against Shinsuke Nakamura.
[Corey] Just before the break, we saw Damian Priest
unleash a hellacious clothesline on Nakamura on the outside of the ring.
Shinsuke has obviously recovered back inside the ring,
but The Prince now meticulously picking Shinsuke apart.
Or is he?
Shinsuke catching the kick attempt of Finn Bálor.
And Nakamura back to a vertical base
and hyperextending Bálor's knee with the elbow.
[Kevin Patrick] Finn could see the fury in the eyes of Shinsuke Nakamura.
-Now, but Bálor… -[Corey] Great counter by Shinsuke.
[Kevin Patrick] Ohh!
Shinsuke Nakamura so quick.
[Corey] Sliding German suplex!
It looked like Bálor got an arm down, trying to mitigate the impact, but…
-Come on! -[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Shinsuke calling out Damian Priest.
And I guarantee you,
Priest will not react well to being humiliated.
[Kevin Patrick] Straight back inside now. Shinsuke looking to end Finn Bálor.
Catches the Irishman.
Hooks the leg now.
Shinsuke Nakamura to win! And Bálor kicks out.
[Corey] Damian Priest barely able to contain himself on the outside.
[Kevin Patrick] We know how much that will enrage Damian Priest,
being mocked by Shinsuke Nakamura.
[Corey] Brutal knee by Shinsuke.
You mentioned the genesis of this match-up was the Triple Threat
in the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament, which Seth Rollins won.
But I can guarantee you that both Nakamura and Bálor
will have close eyes on the match-up this Saturday at Night of Champions,
as AJ Styles goes one-on-one with Seth "Freakin" Rollins
to crown the new World Heavyweight Champion.
[Kevin Patrick] 1:00 p.m. Eastern start time on Saturday.
[Corey] Great pinning combination by Bálor!
[Kevin Patrick] Shinsuke out just in time.
Oh, Sling Blade!
[Corey] The Prince now has acquired his target.
Sights set on The King of Strong Style.
And Shinsuke, a step ahead, connects with a kick!
[Kevin Patrick] Nakamura had Bálor scouted.
[Corey] Shinsuke knows he can end this match-up with one knee strike.
Here it comes!
Oh!
Bálor with a double stomp right to the heart of Nakamura!
[Kevin Patrick] Devastating for Shinsuke.
[Corey] Finn now, making the climb to the top.
[Kevin Patrick] Finn Bálor looking for Coup de Grace! Leg by Shinsuke Nakamura!
[Corey] Shot to the back of the neck! Both men are down!
[Kevin Patrick] What a match we are witnessing.
[Corey] Here's how Bálor turned it around moments ago.
A vertical leap into an epic double stomp.
[Kevin Patrick] The WWE Universe appreciating what they're seeing
here tonight.
[Corey] Both men, artists in the combat space.
Shinsuke the first to his feet.
Bálor still on one knee.
Can Shinsuke summon the power?
And the lifesaver that is Damian Priest…
[crowd booing]
…pulling Finn to safety.
[Kevin Patrick] Much to the fury of Shinsuke,
who's got his eyes on the prize.
Shinsuke now, taking down Priest!
[Corey] Nakamura turning his attention to Damian Priest on the outside!
Oh! Shinsuke just drilled Priest into our timekeeper's area.
But look out, Shin!
Dropkick by Bálor.
[Kevin Patrick] Meanwhile, we're at a five-count from the referee.
[Corey] And Nakamura was caught between the dropkick and the barricade.
Finn now, ascending to the top!
[Kevin Patrick] Finn Bálor, Coup de Grace on Shinsuke Nakamura!
-[crowd] One, two, three! -[bell ringing]
[Corey] Big win for Bálor.
[Samantha] Here is your winner, Finn Bálor!
["I Am Danger" playing]
[Corey] Finn Bálor gonna earn the W,
but we should give a heavy assist to Damian Priest,
who incurred the wrath of Shinsuke Nakamura
after multiple interference attempts.
But it finally opened the door for Bálor
to deliver the dropkick to the barricade
and the dagger to the heart of The King of Strong Style.
A Coup de Grace from the top turnbuckle.
Big win for Bálor and all of The Judgment Day.
Certainly a disheartening turn of events for Shinsuke Nakamura.
We know Bálor would love to have advanced
in the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament,
but I have a feeling it won't be long until Bálor is sensing gold.
Yeah, so, Damian Priest having the back of Finn Bálor,
just like Raquel Rodriguez has always had the back of Liv Morgan.
But, Corey, it won't be any longer as Tag Team Champions,
for now, at least.
Unfortunately, Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez
forced to relinquish their Tag Team Championships
after what played out two weeks ago in a title defense against Damage CTRL.
This, the moment. Liv Morgan injured.
[Corey] We're gonna show you this again in super slow motion. Watch the impact
on Liv Morgan's shoulder.
The kick connects…
And Dakota Kai responsible for taking out Liv Morgan and relinquishing their title.
[Kevin Patrick] So, what does it mean? It means that we are set to have
a Fatal 4-Way to determine the new WWE Women's Tag Team Championships.
But who will Raquel Rodriguez choose to be her tag partner
against Ronda and Shayna,
Damage CTRL and Sonya Deville and Chelsea Green?
[Corey] Versus Bayley and IYO SKY of Damage CTRL,
competing as Dakota Kai herself was injured in the same match-up.
We'll do our best to keep you updated.
[Kevin Patrick] It is a massive question, who will Raquel Rodriguez choose?
-["Trap Queen" playing] -[bell ringing]
[Samantha] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from Rio Grande Valley, Texas,
Raquel Rodriguez!
[Kevin Patrick] Corey, you gotta admire the positivity of Raquel Rodriguez.
Just a week removed from being jumped by Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler,
post-victory,
Raquel Rodriguez is out for a match again tonight.
It's one-on-one action against Sonya Deville,
and Deville will have Chelsea Green by her side.
It's coming your way next on Monday Night Raw.
["Trap Queen" continues playing]
[Kevin Patrick] This Sunday, the greatest spectacle in racing returns.
Thirty-three of the world's fastest drivers go head-to-head
for a chance to kiss the bricks, taste the milk,
and claim their place in racing history.
The 107th Indy 500, this Sunday, 11:00 a.m. Eastern
on NBC and Peacock.
[Corey] You see Raquel Rodriguez ready for singles action.
And Raquel has a lot on her mind after what's transpired recently.
[Kevin Patrick] Last week, in one-on-one action,
without Liv Morgan. Tejana Bomb to Chelsea Green.
And Raquel Rodriguez would showcase her power
and get the victory, with a furious Sonya Deville watching on.
[Corey] The celebration would be short-lived,
as Raquel would be attacked in the aisleway
by Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler.
What are you supposed to do with that title?
You're going to defend it with or without Liv,
or you're gonna catch the same exact beating
every single week until you do.
-[crowd booing] -One more thing…
[Corey] Exclamation point by Baszler, a knee to the jaw
of Raquel Rodriguez.
Raquel certainly had a tough go of things lately. As we mentioned before,
her partner, Liv Morgan, suffering an injury,
being forced to relinquish the Women's Tag Team Championship.
Things aren't gonna get any easier.
["Made Me Stronger" playing]
[Samantha] And her opponent, accompanied to the ring by Chelsea Green,
from Shamong, New Jersey,
Sonya Deville!
[Kevin Patrick] Sonya Deville and Chelsea Green
have already proven to be a very effective tag team.
Could they be more opposite?
I mean, the only thing they have in common is their moaning.
[Corey] I dare you to say that a little louder, KP,
'cause you're gonna catch about five across the eyes if you say it loud enough.
Listen, all that matters is the Women's Tag Team Championships,
and if Chelsea and Sonya are gelling together as a unit,
which they have been,
there only needs to be one goal,
and that goal is gold!
And they will have that opportunity next Monday on Raw.
[Kevin Patrick] Exactly right. Green and Deville,
one of the tag teams next week on Raw in that Fatal 4-Way Match.
You'll also see Bailey and IYO SKY of Damage CTRL,
Sonya… Excuse me, Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler.
And who will Raquel pick to be her partner?
[Corey] You're casting doubt and aspersions
on Sonia Deville and Chelsea Green,
but you need to be asking questions about Raquel… Oh, my God!
Those were $1,000 sunglasses.
[Kevin Patrick] Sonya Deville with a ferocious start to this match.
[Corey] Rights and lefts taking down the powerhouse Raquel Rodriguez.
Oh, my!
[Kevin Patrick] Sonya Deville now, with an early victory perhaps.
Big kick-out by Raquel.
[Corey] Sonya taking a page out of Shayna Baszler's book,
that running knee right on the chin of Rodriguez.
Deville, an extremely dangerous striker.
Oh!
Case in point. Cover.
[Kevin Patrick] That might do it. Early victory again… No!
Raquel Rodriguez still alive.
[Corey] And this match-up is of the utmost importance.
Imagine what it would do to the confidence of Rodriguez to be defeated…
Getting the knee to the chin off of the ropes.
…to be defeated in this match-up
prior to having to try to win her championships back next week.
Could be catastrophic to your confidence.
[Kevin Patrick] Absolutely. An uphill battle for Rodriguez,
who's being pummeled now.
We know the combat sports history of Sonya Deville,
-and then, the mental side of it, as well. -[crowd booing]
-Chelsea Green-- -[Corey] I was distracted.
I'm sorry, what were you saying, KP?
[Kevin Patrick] Is anyone better at getting under someone's skin
than Sonya Deville?
[Corey] Sorry, still paying attention to Chelsea.
She's right here. I mean…
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, I can hear her.
Oh! Big boot from Raquel!
[Corey] Rodriguez now, showing her agility!
Twisting senton takes out Deville for the moment.
[Kevin Patrick] Against all the adversity, Raquel Rodriguez continues to fight.
-Raquel Rodriguez! -[Corey] Tejana Bomb!
[Kevin Patrick] And what a win that is for Raquel!
["Trap Queen" playing]
[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
[Corey] We talk about the game-changing power.
Just that quickly, Rodriguez can change the game.
But yet again, Raquel is outnumbered,
and things do not look good.
-["Ball Pit" playing] -[crowd cheering]
Hang on a second!
"The Ballsy Badass" Shotzi's hitting the scene!
[Kevin Patrick] Jumping to the defense now of Raquel Rodriguez,
taking down Chelsea Green.
There's that big boot again!
-[Corey] An unlikely ally. -You good? You good?
[Corey] Coming to the aid of Raquel.
Get on there!
[Corey] You wanna get nuts?
Let's get nuts!
-[Kevin Patrick] Let's see if Shotzi-- -[Corey] Oh!
Yeah!
[Kevin Patrick] Could it be Shotzi
that will team with Raquel Rodriguez next week?
-We will find out. But for now… -["Ball Pit" playing]
[Corey] Listen, I don't think, if I'm Raquel, I'm looking much further.
I think I found a partner.
She's willing to risk it all on my behalf?
That makes for a great tag-team partner in Shotzi!
Is that tonight for Raquel?
[Kevin Patrick] That's why she's The Ballsy Badass.
Effective tonight, helping out the powerful Raquel Rodriguez,
Sir, we tried to talk to Cody. He's extremely angry.
We've tried to go into his locker room. He won't let anybody in.
-Okay. -He's hurting very badly.
Right, I need to go address this now.
-Thank you so much. -Okay, thank you.
Monsieur Pearce… It's French for Mr. Pearce.
I'm so sorry I haven't called you back. I've been very busy,
thriving and things like that.
But I did make room in my schedule for the contract signing.
-Thank you, Trish. -Oh, you get it. I love that.
Speaking of said contract signing,
Becky, you know, she's a little… What's the word?
Feisty. Fiery. You know how those gingers can be.
-[chuckles] Okay. -So I was thinking, tonight,
it might be a nice idea to have a no-touch policy
in effect for this evening.
I just think, you know… For, like, a professional environment.
You know, the set's very expensive and things like that.
So I thought maybe you'd like to consider that.
Well, Trish, you might have noticed, there's a lot going on tonight.
And, frankly, to be honest, I'm not sure there's a need for a no-touch clause.
-Okay. -So, thank you, Trish,
uh, but no. Excuse me.
[Kevin Patrick] A no-touch policy? This isn't Canada's Got Talent.
This is WWE, and it's a contract signing coming your way
ahead of Night of Champions.
That's Saturday afternoon.
It's Becky Lynch, Trish Stratus that are up next here on Monday Night Raw.
[tense music playing]
[Riddle] The greatest mistake you can make in life…
is fearing that you'll make one.
♪ You know what it is ♪
♪ Everything rich Ten toes to my wrist ♪
♪ Keep it real Never switch… ♪
[Riddle] I've been in the ring with monsters, champions,
men bigger than me and faster than me.
But what's the point of being afraid?
You learn your own strength by challenging the impossible.
[music continues]
By laughing in the face of adversity.
This is my time.
And if you doubt me, bro…
that's a mistake you can't afford to make.
[Kevin Patrick] What an impact The Original Bro made earlier on tonight,
leaping to the defense of Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn
in the face of Imperium.
We're set for six-man tag-team action later tonight,
here on Monday Night Raw.
♪ And it feels like greatness ♪
["Celtic Invasion" playing]
[crowd cheering]
[Samantha] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
"The Man" Becky Lynch!
[Kevin Patrick] The man of the people has arrived on Monday Night Raw!
Check out the shades that Becky Lynch is rocking.
Clearly can't stand the sight of Trish Stratus.
Getting set to go for a contract signing
ahead of Saturday afternoon's Night of Champions.
For weeks, WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus
seemed to love every second of goading and mocking Becky Lynch.
That was until The Man returned in epic fashion a couple of weeks ago.
I am very worried. I'm very concerned
because Becky Lynch is missing.
-And-- -["Celtic Invasion" playing]
What? No! Guys!
No, no, no, no! The joke is done! Cut the music, guys!
It's done! The music is…
[crowd chanting] Becky! Becky! Becky!
[Kevin Patrick] Lynch with a big right, flattening Trish Stratus.
And an exploder as well.
Statement made by Becky Lynch.
You want me, Trish? I'm right here.
The Man has come around to kick your ass!
-["Celtic Invasion" playing] -[crowd cheering]
Come on!
[Kevin Patrick] An impassioned Becky Lynch raring to go for Night of Champions.
And she will be taking on Trish Stratus, who sees herself as the GOAT.
The Hall of Famer and Becky Lynch,
Night of Champions, live,
Saturday afternoon, 1:00 p.m. Eastern, 10:00 a.m. Pacific,
from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
["Celtic Invasion" continues playing]
The Man has come around to Hershey!
[crowd cheering]
And now, we got business to take care of.
So, get your ass out here, Trish Stratus, and let's take care of business.
Come on. Come on, Trish.
["Time to Rock and Roll" playing]
♪ Whoa! It's time to rock and roll ♪
♪ This time I'm in control ♪
♪ Right now I own the streets ♪
♪ I got the keys to the city That's 'cause I get down ♪
♪ Time to rock and roll This time I'm in control ♪
♪ Right now I own the streets ♪
♪ I got the keys to the city That's 'cause I get down ♪
[crowd booing]
[Kevin Patrick] The Hall of Famer, Trish Stratus,
walking confidently to the ring for the contract signing.
"Ten weeks ago, I was the original 'The Man.'"
"I paved the way for Becky Lynch and every other female Superstar."
"Where was the thanks? I'm no nostalgia act!"
Trish Stratus, recently drafted to Monday Night Raw,
is well and truly back ahead of Night of Champions.
[crowd booing]
Look at you, you little keener. You jumped right into it.
Great. So eager.
It's funny, you weren't that eager to come back to Raw
after I kicked your head off, though, were you?
You know, I have to say, this is kind of a big moment.
Guys, this is my first contract signing.
No, it's a big deal.
I wanna enjoy this.
You know, not to mention the fact that the GOAT has come around to, uh…
What is this? What is this place?
To Hershey? Like the chocolate?
To Hershey. [chuckles]
-[sighs] -[crowd booing]
Look at you, so cool, casual, kicked back.
You got your weird little glasses on.
Because contract signings are not a big deal, right?
You've had so many of them, right?
And do you know why you've had so many of them, Becky?
Because of me.
Because of the work I did.
Because I single-handedly changed women's wrestling
to the point where you could get done doing your Irish jigs
in some dump of a restaurant.
And you could come back,
and contract signings were just a normal part
of the landscape of the Women's Division, because of me.
You know, you said that I wanna come back
because I wanna be number one… again.
Honey, I am number one.
I am still number one, and I will always be number one.
In fact, I was number one the minute I walked into WWE,
and it didn't take a broken nose for me to get there.
[crowd booing]
You say you're "it"?
Well, what happens when I beat you at Night of Champions?
I guess that makes me "it."
And what will happen to you when that happens?
Will you crawl back into a dark, deep place
and have to "go through your stuff" again?
See, Becky, I've got you figured out.
I see your weak spots.
Your biggest problem is you.
You're your worst enemy.
When you said you wanted to find a name and a face for the badness in your head…
it had a name all along.
It was staring back at you in the mirror.
So, I'll sign this.
Should I sign it?
You don't have to tell me what to do, guys. Thanks, I appreciate that.
[crowd booing]
So, I'll sign this,
but isn't it kind of ironic?
Corey, check this out.
It's ironic because this is my first contract signing.
It also makes it your last contract signing.
[crowd chanting] Becky! Becky! Becky!
You're scared, aren't you, Trish?
I saw that little thing with you and Adam Pearce in the back.
You're scared that I'm gonna hurt you.
Don't worry, Trish. I'm not gonna hurt you.
I want you in the full of your health for Night of Champions.
But you're scared of something bigger, aren't you?
That's what all of this is about.
You're scared that history is forgetting you.
I mean, time, it's passing all of us by, and everybody's getting better,
but you just stayed the same.
And what's more,
and this is a problem for you,
is that they remember you as being better than you are.
But I…
I'm even better than you think that I am.
So, you don't need to worry about why I was gone.
You just need to worry that I am back.
[crowd cheering]
But you… you want your flowers.
You want your flowers. You want your flowers!
That's what all of this is about.
Okay, I think we're all past that.
But, okay, I'll say it to your face.
Thank you, Trish.
Thank you for being everything I hope I never become.
[crowd exclaiming]
Because you're vapid. I'm passion.
You're trashy. I'm soul, heart and fashion.
You're cold, I'm hot.
I'm it, you're not!
[crowd cheering]
And, so, you can… you can stab people in the back.
The difference is, I will punch you in the face every single time.
And that's why I can look at myself in the mirror,
know that I'm not perfect like you think that you are,
and I can carry on regardless.
And that is why, even with the badness in my head,
I've been able to have a career that you could only dream of.
While you, you've done things that would give me nightmares.
And if you think barking like a dog is embarrassing…
just wait until I whoop your ass at Night of Champions.
[crowd cheering]
Welcome to the big time, bitch!
-Woof-woof. -[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Whoa!
[crowd cheering]
I don't believe it.
The Man has gotten deep under the skin of the Hall of Famer, Trish Stratus.
[Kevin Patrick] Tough-talking Becky Lynch, manipulating the mind there,
perhaps, of the Hall of Famer.
[Corey] But it is official. The contract has been signed.
This Saturday, Night of Champions.
And, remember, special start time, 1:00 p.m. Eastern,
streaming live, WWE on Peacock. This one's gonna be good.
Yeah, strong work officiating, making sure the contract was signed there, buddy.
I do have to bring your attention to what happened earlier on tonight
before Monday Night Raw even commenced.
Backstage, Cody Rhodes, "The American Nightmare,"
arriving here to the show.
And Brock Lesnar with a savage attack on Cody Rhodes.
This was hard to watch, Corey.
[Corey] This was next-level brutality,
the likes of which only Brock Lesnar is capable of.
Lesnar was ready for a fight this Saturday,
but this… this may have changed the complexion of everything.
Cody Rhodes, we're suspecting, potentially sustained a broken arm again.
We haven't received any official medical word
because Cody has not cooperated with any officials.
Rhodes just in agony there.
But that wasn't it.
[Kevin Patrick] No. Cody Rhodes, as courageous
and as daring as anyone could ever imagine.
Lesnar calling out for anyone to step up against him.
And, of course, Cody Rhodes came out.
Of course, Cody Rhodes wanted to fight Brock Lesnar.
[Corey] And I think, in this instance, Cody's bravery outweighed his sanity.
Rhodes stepping up to The Beast Incarnate,
and would be mauled yet again,
this time, in the dreaded Kimura Lock of Brock Lesnar.
And pay attention to the position of Cody's arm.
In just a matter of seconds…
-Watch this. -[Brock] You wanna fight me?
-Come on, Cody! Fight me! -[Cody screaming]
Fight me! Fight me!
Fight!
[Cody groans]
Fight.
[Corey] Right there.
The last final tweak of pressure from Lesnar.
Oh, God.
[Corey] Cody Rhodes has sustained serious damage to his left arm.
That is not up for debate.
We are waiting an update on it to the exact extent.
[crowd jeering]
You have all the same information I do.
It's bad.
Cody's arm was mangled.
I know, and he won't-- I've tried to talk to him.
He won't reason with anybody. He won't listen.
He gets rid of medical personnel every time they try to evaluate him.
That's why I'm calling. Frankly, I'm at a loss for words.
Okay.
Yeah.
Okay.
[Corey] Mangled sounds like an apropos description for Cody's arm.
[Kevin Patrick] Adam Pearce, WWE official, doing all he can.
Again, we'll keep you updated on Cody Rhodes as the night progresses.
["It Is My Time" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Samantha] The following contest is scheduled for one-fall.
Introducing first, accompanied to the ring
by the SmackDown Women's Champion, Rhea Ripley,
representing The Judgment Day,
Dominik Mysterio!
[Corey] What an entrance for Mami and The Notorious D-O-M.
[Kevin Patrick] Dominik Mysterio, no question, feeds off the hatred
from the WWE Universe
as the boos ring out here in Pennsylvania.
Dominik Mysterio's been on a winning streak of late.
It'll be tested next, against the newly returning to Raw
Apollo Crews.
I'm going to try to get a word with what could be
a new alliance here in WWE.
Ladies, Shotzi, Raquel.
Uh… Shotzi, I got to know.
What was your motivation for coming to the aid of Raquel
tonight on Raw?
Byron, you have no idea
how much respect I have for Raquel.
Shotzi.
And Raquel…
I just want you to know that
I have your back anytime you need it.
Thank you.
And I have yours, because it looks like I found my new tag partner.
-Aw! -And next Monday night,
you and I are going to be walking out as the new
WWE Women's Tag Team Champions.
[shrieks] That's what I'm talking about.
-[howls] Let's go! -Let's go. Yay.
[Corey] Looks like Raquel found herself a partner.
Hopefully, they'll have as much chemistry as this duo,
Mami and Dom Dom.
[Kevin Patrick] You just light up with Dom Dom's on your screen, Corey.
["To the Top" playing]
[Kevin Patrick] Mysterio has been on a winning streak,
but, man, is about to be tested.
[Samantha] And his opponent, weighing in at 240 lbs,
Apollo Crews!
[Corey] I'm excited to see
what Apollo Crews brings to the ring tonight.
This is the man who is a former United States Champion,
former Intercontinental Champion.
Apollo Crews has spent some time
over the last year or so in NXT,
reinvigorating his passion for this business.
Unfortunately, for Apollo,
he must have left his manners at the Performance Center,
because he interrupted Dominik's time earlier tonight.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, come on. Would you look at Apollo Crews?
As chiseled as ever.
A physical specimen.
Dominik Mysterio has his work cut out
against the man that became a champion at WrestleMania just over two years ago.
He told me earlier that returning to Raw has given him a new perspective.
-He said he's got kids watching… -[bell ringing]
…weekly at home.
He wants to prove to his kids what the winning mentality looks like.
[Corey] He's about to compete against the most dangerous man in WWE.
Who's not to say that Dominik isn't-- can't be a role model.
-[Corey] If Scared Straight's real-- -[Kevin Patrick] Role model for who?
[Corey] The youths of America.
-[Kevin Patrick] Ex-cons? -[Corey] I have it on good authority
there are two of the United States
that are looking at banning Dominik Mysterio from competing there.
I'm not going to tell you, because I'm not a snitch.
[Kevin Patrick] Come on. Reveal your sources on Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] I don't understand why the WWE Universe has
such disdain for Dom Dom.
I'm going to have to assume--
Look at the power of Apollo Crews.
[Kevin Patrick] This incredible strength and athleticism from Apollo Crews.
[Corey] I don't understand why the disdain. I mean…
Every city we go to,
it seems as though someone has a problem with Dominik Mysterio,
as we look again at the outrageous power…
-[Kevin Patrick] Oh! -[Corey] …of Apollo Crews.
[Kevin Patrick] Apollo now. What a victory this could be.
An early kick-out by Dominik.
[Corey] Look, if Dom Dom is good enough for Mami,
he's good enough for me.
I'm going to have to assume
this is a case like the great American poet Nas told us.
I'm going to paraphrase here.
[Corey] "People fear what they don't understand
and hate what they can't conquer."
That's why nobody likes Dom.
He's misunderstood.
[Kevin Patrick] Sure. Yeah. Okay, fair enough.
I'm sure Rey Mysterio would have something else to say.
His father, Hall of Famer Rey Mysterio.
[Corey] Oh, man.
Nasty landing for Crews,
much to the delight of the SmackDown Women's Champion.
And look at the brutality from Dom Dom.
[Kevin Patrick] Rhea Ripley encouraging Dominik Mysterio
as we see this again
from Dominik.
[Corey] Great wherewithal from Dominik,
who improves each and every week inside the ring.
The confidence grows,
-the swagger increases. -[Kevin Patrick] Oh, no. Here we go.
[Corey] Uno.
Come on, KP.
-[Kevin Patrick] I can do it in Irish. -[Corey] Dos is next.
Oh, Dom flipped the script on me. Cover.
[Kevin Patrick] Now looking to put away Apollo. An early kick-out.
Think about Apollo Crews here, as he tries to fight back.
This is a Superstar that won't be intimidated
by Dominik Mysterio and Rhea Ripley.
[Corey] I've got a lot of respect for Apollo Crews
and what he's accomplished here in WWE and in NXT.
Apollo has got an extremely bright future.
He's a very valuable addition to the Raw roster.
With that said,
it's a very different scene than what Apollo left last time.
[Kevin Patrick] Just think about how much Dominik has grown in confidence.
Physically as well. He's a different Superstar.
[Corey] What about the emotional growth of Dominik?
He's now not-- no longer like a scared little child.
Dom is the one who strikes fear into the hearts of others.
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] Not going to disagree, as Apollo Crews looking to rally.
Catching Dominik with ease.
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Next-level power from Crews.
Dom in a bad way.
[Corey] He is explosive.
You mentioned the former United States
and Intercontinental Champion, Apollo Crews.
[Corey] Crews now, beginning to roll.
Apollo from the second turnbuckle.
Went for a blockbuster, took down Dom.
Crews now climbing the opposite turnbuckle.
Crossbody connects.
-[Corey] Cover. -[Kevin Patrick] This could do it.
Hooks the leg.
Dominik just about out in time.
The wobbly legs of Dominik Mysterio making Rhea Ripley nervous.
Better be careful. Rhea's getting close here.
[Apollo grunts]
[crowd jeering]
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, man. No.
Apollo Crews has Mysterio scouted.
-[Rhea Ripley] Dom! -[referee] Back in the ring, guys. One!
[Corey] Clothesline flattens Dominik.
-[Apollo panting] -[referee] Two!
[referee] Three! Hey, Rhea, hop off. Get out of the way. Let's go.
Four!
[crowd clamoring]
[referee] Five!
Rhea, knock it off.
-[metal bangs] -[commentators exclaim]
[Corey] Apollo with a spin move and got a face full of stairs
for his trouble.
[Kevin Patrick] Apollo Crews is tough, but, man…
Did he hit those? Oh, no.
-No! -[Corey] Oh, ho, ho.
[Corey] Crews is tough, but Mami may be tougher.
[referee and Rhea Ripley] Two!
[Kevin Patrick] The official was dealing with Dominik Mysterio.
Didn't see that from Rhea Ripley.
[referee] Four!
[crowd clamoring]
[referee] Five! Six!
[Kevin Patrick] We know Apollo Crews is tough,
but the steel steps followed by the post.
[referee and Rhea Ripley] Eight!
Nine!
[Kevin Patrick] Apollo Crews back in at nine.
[Corey] Apollo Crews climbed directly to the lion's den.
Look at the distance!
Dominik Mysterio from more than halfway across the ring
[crowds cheering]
[bell ringing]
["It Is My Time" playing]
[Samantha] Here is your winner,
Dominik Mysterio!
[Kevin Patrick] A valiant effort
by Apollo Crews, but when Mami got involved,
this was devastating for Crews.
[Corey] Look at this athleticism.
Look at the distance.
But above all, the impact at the end.
Frog Splash by Dom Dom
and a big-time win.
[Kevin Patrick] All smiles for The Judgment Day's Dominik and Rhea.
Corey, Seth "Freakin" Rollins told us that nobody is on his level,
but maybe come Saturday afternoon
for the World Heavyweight Championship,
we'll see The Phenomenal One step up.
[crowd chanting] AJ Styles!
[Cole] Since 1998, this man has competed all over the world.
[AJ Styles] I have headlined Tokyo Dome.
I have been a champion all over the world.
I've earned the right to be here in the WWE.
[Cole] "The Phenomenal One" AJ Styles…
-…is here. -[fireworks popping]
["Ten Thousand Hours" playing]
[music builds up]
[Corey] Styles is the WWE Champion.
What good is being champion
if you're not a fighting champ?
[Triple H] At Night of Champions,
we will crown
a new World Heavyweight Champion.
[Cole] It will be AJ Styles versus Seth Rollins.
[AJ Styles] Here it is, an opportunity
to be the world Heavyweight Champion,
and I want it more than the air that I breathe.
That proves that I am better than the best,
that I am phenomenal.
[music crescendoes]
[crowd chanting] AJ Styles!
[Kevin Patrick] Two generational talents, two legendary Superstars,
but only one man can become
the new World Heavyweight Champion.
We're going to find out Saturday afternoon.
1:00 p.m. Eastern, 10:00 a.m. Pacific, at Night of Champions.
[Corey] AJ Styles has his eyes on the pinnacle of the mountain.
But coming up next,
we will conclude
our in-depth journey into the career of Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
Next.
[Kevin Patrick] Night of Champions is rapidly approaching,
but make sure you do not miss a second
of our Night of Champions press conference,
at 12:00 a.m. Eastern, 9:00 a.m. Pacific.
Coming to you live from Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
You can watch it all unfold across WWE's social media channels
[Corey] If you're talking about unfolding, KP,
I cannot wait to see how the finals
of the World Heavyweight Championship Tournament finally unfold.
As we know, "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles will stand on one side of the ring.
On the other, a man who's ready to make history this Saturday.
[soft piano music playing]
[Corey] Seth, throughout your career, you've held
every championship in WWE.
You're about to compete in the finals
to crown a new world Heavyweight Champion.
Your résumé speaks for itself.
Why is Night of Champions different?
Why is the World Heavyweight Championship so special to Seth Rollins?
I'll go back to exactly where we started this thing, man.
It is time for… change.
[soft piano music playing]
I think, because I've always felt like…
I was never pegged to be the guy,
it made me work harder to want to take that spot.
This is my first love, man.
Since I was four years old,
as long as I can remember, this…
has been everything I've ever dreamed of.
It has given me a life
beyond my wildest dreams.
[crowd vocalizing]
I just want to see it…
be the best it can be.
This World Heavyweight Championship, this is it, man.
This is our moment to do something special.
This is an opportunity for us to push the industry forward.
I'm putting all my chips in.
I am going all in on this World Heavyweight Championship.
I'm going to give it every single thing I've got.
[young Rollins] The winner is--
[Cole] Rollins has done it!
[Rollins] I want to create something that's going to be legendary.
I want to create something that's going to live forever.
I am Seth Rollins, and I'm the change
you've been waiting for.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins
is once in a generation
because I've made myself that way!
I want to be somebody that the future can look to,
like, "That's the guy."
"That's the way to carry things forward."
[Kevin Patrick] We're getting so close now.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins says he'll be the champion
that the WWE Universe deserves.
Rollins going all in.
But will it be enough against "The Phenomenal" AJ Styles?
It's a World Heavyweight Championship match
at Night of Champions.
[Corey] The Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship will be on the line
as Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn defend against The Bloodline
in the form of Solo and Roman Reigns.
[Kevin Patrick] Triple main event continues,
but as of right now, Corey, as we saw earlier,
there are doubts about Cody Rhodes and his left arm
after the brutal beatdowns
by the savage beast that is Brock Lesnar.
They're still slated to go
on Saturday afternoon at Night of Champions.
[Corey] The ink has dried, it is official.
WWE Hall of Famer Trish Stratus
will go one-on-one with "The Man" Becky Lynch.
[Kevin Patrick] How about three more championship matches?
This is incredible.
Bianca Belair against Asuka,
Mustafa Ali to take on "The Ring General" Gunther,
and Natalya will challenge Rhea Ripley.
[Corey] It is Saturday afternoon. A special start time of 1:00 p.m. Eastern.
Of course, streaming live, WWE on Peacock.
["Symphony No. 9 in E Minor" playing]
[bell ringing]
[Samantha] The following is a Six-Man Tag Team Match
scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first,
Ludwig Kaiser,
Giovanni Vinci
and the Intercontinental Champion, Gunther,
Imperium!
[Kevin Patrick] Imperium looked like they're outnumbered.
The Undisputed Tag Team Champions earlier, KO and Sami Zayn,
they were helped out by Matt Riddle,
resulting in this, a Six-Man Tag Team Match.
Your main event of Monday Night Raw,
and it's coming your way next.
[Kevin Patrick] Next week on Monday Night Raw, a championship night
from the state capital of New York, Albany.
Raquel Rodriguez has chosen Shotzi to be her teammate
in the Fatal 4-Way Match
to determine the Women's Tag Team Champions.
[Corey] It's hard to believe, but it's that time of year again.
We will kick off the Money in the Bank qualifying matches.
The winner, of course, receives a championship opportunity
at the time and place of their choosing.
This potentially career-altering match is a true game changer
and we begin qualifiers next week.
[Kevin Patrick] Speaking of game changers,
a look at Imperium,
led by The Ring General,
the Intercontinental Champion, Gunther.
["We Up" playing]
[Corey] Gunther in an extremely sour mood tonight
after the arrival at the beginning of the evening
by this gentleman.
[Kevin Patrick] Riddle doing all he can to win over, not Sami Zayn,
but mainly this man, Kevin Owens.
["Fight" playing]
[crowd cheering]
["Worlds Apart" playing]
[crowd] Let's go!
[Samantha] And their opponents, the team of Matt Riddle
and the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions,
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn!
[Corey] For all intents and purposes, this could be the last match
we see Owens and Zayn compete in
as Undisputed Tag Team Champions.
Of course, they both host a very special edition of The KO Show
this coming Friday night on SmackDown with special guests,
their opponents at Night of Champions,
"The Tribal Chief" Roman Reigns and Solo.
You're not going to want to miss that.
It will be massive,
but the stakes incredibly high tonight.
[Kevin Patrick] Think about what Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn must be feeling.
The pressure of now being the hunted champion
as oppose to the hunters.
Last week, it was The Judgment Day in the main event of Monday Night Raw.
-This week, it's Imperium. -[bell ringing]
[Corey] This, in my opinion,
is a bit of questionable decision for the Tag Champions.
I understand that Sami and Kevin want to be fighting champions,
that they want to keep their skill set sharp.
It's been said a million times that iron sharpens iron,
but this Saturday at Night of Champions,
Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens are competing
against two of the most dominant Superstars
on Friday Night SmackDown, Roman Reigns and Solo.
So they're stepping into the ring with three people as dangerous as Imperium,
I think saying it's ill-advised is putting it lightly.
[Kevin Patrick] Everything went their way when they went face-to-face
with Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa
because of the glaringly obvious cracks within The Bloodline.
[Corey] This isn't about Jimmy and Jey Uso.
It's about Roman Reigns and Solo this coming Saturday.
Tonight, it's about Vinci, Kaiser and Gunther,
and here comes Giovanni Vinci.
[Kevin Patrick] Earlier on tonight,
we heard Kevin Owens say he's dedicating the victory
on Saturday afternoon at Night of Champions
to Jimmy and Jey Uso.
Manipulating the mind and getting inside the head of "The Tribal Chief."
[Corey] Think about this. You saw in my sit-down interview with Seth Rollins
how Seth believes that Roman is taking opportunities
from the rest of the roster.
What do you think it means for all of WWE
if Reigns wins the Tag Team Champions as well?
[Kevin Patrick] It's a frightening thought for a lot of Superstars
that want to become champion.
[Corey] Great gutwrench suplex by Matt Riddle,
and this is a showdown
that the WWE Universe has been salivating for.
[Kevin Patrick] The longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion this century.
[Corey] Riddle went for the double-leg and Gunther stumped him.
Not something you see very often happen to The Original Bro.
[Kevin Patrick] No, and Riddle avoiding the chops of Gunther.
[Corey] Riddle answering with some kicks of his own.
My goodness!
Oh!
Gunther might've just blown out Riddle's knee with a kick.
[laughs] Oh, my God.
[Kevin Patrick] Imperium, bad news for Riddle
and the Undisputed Tag Champions.
[Kevin Patrick] Packed house tonight enjoying the main event
of Monday Night Raw, six-man tag-team action.
Imperium taking on the Undisputed Tag Champions,
KO and Sami Zayn, alongside Matt Riddle.
[Corey] Riddle desperately trying to fight out of the clutches of Ludwig Kaiser
and make a tag to a very eager Sami Zayn or Kevin Owens.
But Kaiser-- Oh, wow!
Fantastic suplex. Cover.
[Kevin Patrick] Kaiser now, for Imperium, and Matt Riddle kicking out.
Remember, just days, on Saturday afternoon at Night of Champions,
KO and Sami will defend
their Undisputed Tag Team Championships
against the man that's been running WWE for almost 1,000 days,
Roman Reigns, and his enforcer, Solo Sikoa.
[Corey] Let's talk about who's running Monday Night Raw right now,
that being "The Ring General" Gunther,
the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion
in modern history,
and Riddle just rocked The General's jaw.
[Kevin Patrick] When do you see that?
When do you see Gunther knocked off his feet like that?
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] A rare sight as Gunther looks for a tag.
Ludwig Kaiser takes matters into his own hands.
[Corey] It's not so shocking that Gunther was knocked off of his feet.
It's the fact that Gunther didn't immediately get back up
and soldier forward…
Great situational awareness by Ludwig Kaiser.
And-- Oh, my God!
Call it, good night.
[Kevin Patrick] Could be over right now. Gunther has the cover, Riddle kicks out.
[Corey] My Lord. Let's take another look at this.
-[exclaims] -[Corey] Ludwig Kaiser,
a step ahead of Sami Zayn and The Original Bro.
Followed by a Gunther lariat that would make Stan Hansen blush.
But Riddle answers with a beautiful German suplex on his own.
[Kevin Patrick] Incredible strength from The Original Bro.
Tag made on either end now.
In comes Vinci, the chop by KO,
followed by raining down blows.
[crowd cheering]
[Kevin Patrick] The inspirational Prize Fighter.
Ohh!
Kevin Owens with the senton, and KO is rolling.
[Corey] German suplex levels Vinci.
This is for you, Greg Brown.
Clear the deck!
-Cannonball! -[Kevin Patrick] Oh!
Clattering into Vinci. Hooks the leg now for the victory--
Vinci kicking out.
[Corey] KO continuing the onslaught of offense
onto a weakened Giovanni Vinci,
And here comes Kaiser.
Dealing with Imperium's like trying to fight the hydra.
You got a three-headed monster.
[Kevin Patrick] Oh, man.
[Corey] Tag is made.
Fantastic double team.
Owens in trouble.
Imperium is dominating.
[crowd booing]
[Kevin Patrick] Kevin Owens now from the top rope.
Has eyes all over Vinci. Owens!
[Corey] Frog Splash on the money,
but Owens has suffered too much damage to capitalize,
to make the cover.
Sami Zayn eager to join the melee.
[Kevin Patrick] What a main event we are witnessing here on Monday Night Raw
ahead of Night of Champions,
Saturday afternoon, where Sami Zayn said it's the biggest possible title defense
that we could have, and it's personal,
against Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa.
If they get there in one piece.
[Corey] That's one match of our triple main event this Saturday.
Of course, still waiting on an update
to see if Cody Rhodes is able to compete after suffering
a beating at the hands of Lesnar,
not once, but twice tonight.
Great athleticism by Zayn.
Michinoku driver.
[Kevin Patrick] Sami Zayn now, can he get the victory?
Somehow, Ludwig Kaiser kicks out.
[Corey] Sami, the freshest competitor on his team, has Kaiser lined up.
Wanted a Helluva Kick, but Kaiser saw it coming.
[Kevin Patrick] Gunther's after making the tag
behind Sami's back, and here we go!
[Corey] My God.
Like being struck in the chest with a frying pan.
-[loud slap] -[crowd groaning]
[Kevin Patrick] Sami Zayn now-- Oh!
[Corey] Blue Thunder Bomb!
[Kevin Patrick] Sami--
[Corey] Vinci keeps this alive for Imperium,
but keep your eyes on Riddle.
[Kevin Patrick] Vinci at pace now. Riddle kicks him away.
-Oh! -[Corey] Riddle from the top.
Nasty landing.
[Kevin Patrick] KO, Stunner!
[Corey] Here comes Kaiser.
There goes KO.
[Kevin Patrick] KO walked into trouble.
Speaking of, out goes Ludwig Kaiser.
[Corey] Sami Zayn lining it up.
Wanted a Helluva Kick,
but caught in a sleeper by The Ring General,
by the Intercontinental Champion.
Gunther has it cinched in. Zayn is fading.
[Kevin Patrick] His tag partners nowhere to be seen.
This is bad news. Oh, there's Riddle!
[Corey] Floating Bro!
Only incidental contact with Gunther,
but enough to break the submission.
Tough to tell who got the worse of that exchange.
[Kevin Patrick] What a teammate Matt Riddle has become
for Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens.
Zayn now.
[Corey] Exploder in the turnbuckle.
Will the third time be the charm?
[Kevin Patrick] Here we go.
Sami says, "Get up, Vinci."
[Corey] And Gunther… grabbing the ankle of Zayn.
Superkick by Owens, and another--
-Knee-- -[Kevin Patrick] Watch out.
[Corey] God Almighty!
[Kevin Patrick] Back inside we go.
Sami Zayn sending Kaiser to the outside.
[Corey] Inside the ring, Vinci looking to take Sami's head off.
-[Kevin Patrick] Zayn! Helluva Kick. -[Corey] Helluva Kick.
[Kevin Patrick] Tags KO.
[Corey] The Prize Fighter from the top.
[Kevin Patrick] Swanton Bomb!
Will that do it for KO, Sami and Riddle?
-[crowd roaring] -[bell ringing]
["Fight" playing]
[Samantha] Here are your winners,
the team of Matt Riddle
and the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions,
Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens.
[Corey] It was of the utmost importance to keep momentum on their side
for the Undisputed Tag Team Champions.
One, you have to wonder, what does this do to the psyche,
to the confidence of the Intercontinental Champion,
because Gunther's got to defend his title
this Saturday at Night of Champions as well?
[Kevin Patrick] It's a great point,
but look at Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens.
Targets coming at them from left, right, and center,
yet, tonight, they are victorious.
What tag-teaming this was with Riddle playing his part.
[Corey] It was chaotic, but fantastic teamwork
on both sides of the ring.
Ultimately, amongst the chaos,
Kaiser dumped to the outside
and Vinci connects with this clothesline,
but don't take your eyes off of Sami Zayn.
Helluva Kick.
KO makes the climb,
KO delivers the picture-perfect Swanton,
and that could be the fate
of The Tribal Chief and The Enforcer this Saturday.
[Kevin Patrick] No doubt watching on.
Remember, this Friday night on SmackDown,
Solo Sikoa and The Tribal Chief himself
set to appear on The KO Show before this,
unbelievable match coming your way
for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship.
[Corey] One of three massive main events this Saturday.
Night of Champions,
special start time of 1:00 p.m. Eastern,
streaming live…
WWE…
-on Peacock. -These stay with us.
You understand?
They're ours, Roman. They're ours.
[knock on door]
I don't need any help.
[man] You got a second?
[crowd cheering]
You mind if I sit?
[Cody sighs]
[Triple H clears throat]
Cody, I, uh…
I can feel you right now, man.
I do.
I understand how angry you are.
I understand that burning inside of you--
Listen, I know what you're trying to do.
I have a respect for it, I understand.
I know.
I know you understand it…
[Cody sniffles]
…but that's the position I'm in, right?
[Cody sighs]
I need to get you medical attention, Cody.
-Let the doctors-- -I don't need any.
I don't need any doctors.
I told Adam Pearce already.
Oh, come on, Cody. I can look at that arm.
Right now just looking at it, I could tell you it's broken.
And I can tell by the look in your face, you know damn well it's broken.
I… I get it, man.
No one's questioning how tough you are.
I understand you're afraid at this--
Afraid? [scoffs]
[splutters] Afraid?
Hunter, what do I have at this point to be afraid of?
You are afraid…
that if a doctor comes in here and looks at that
and tells you it's broken, I'm not going to let you go
to Night of Champions to face Brock Lesnar.
Really? [splutters] Over this? Over an arm?
You used to probably do the same thing.
My legs are working just fine.
My legs work, I walk to the ring. Come on!
Come on, Cody, you don't have to prove anything to anybody here.
This is not about how tough you are.
It's not. I watched you go to the ring with a torn pec…
against Seth Rollins inside Hell in a Cell.
I've never seen anything like it.
I don't question for a second how tough you are…
but this is different.
Right? Think about that year…
you spent on the shelf after that.
A year… out of your career, a year out of your life.
I, uh-- I understand, right?
That year, it was terrible.
You know what's far worse?
What would happen to me if I ended up just being a coward?
If I came back to Monday Night Raw a complete shadow of myself,
if I didn't go to Night of Champions and fight?
And, please, of all people, really?
Of all people? Let me ask you something. [sighs]
What would you do?
What have you done?
You fought.
That's what I'm going to do.
I am going to Night of Champions
and I am going to fight
Brock Lesnar.
[crowd cheering]
All right. ring]