[intro music playing]
[John Cena] Then.
[Rick 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.
♪ Mysterio! ♪
[crowd booing]
[Rhea] Dom Dom has something he would like to say.
[crowd booing]
[mouths] Shut up.
I…
Shut up and show some respect to my Latino Heat.
You have a baby girl, right?
You should be at home taking care of her.
But instead you're just like Rey.
A deadbeat dad.
Nobody's perfect. I'm not perfect.
Rey Mysterio, he's not the perfect father.
Matter of fact, I know he's made some terrible mistakes.
Because I'm looking at one.
[crowd cheering]
You…
just slapped me right across the face and thought you could get away with it?
Why not… Why not try this on for size, Dom? Why not…
you…
versus me,
-at Money in the Bank? -[crowd cheering]
My Latino Heat is more of a man than anyone in this arena.
Anyone watching at home, and he's certainly more of a man than you.
[crowd booing]
[Corey] Miz is here.
Miz just got dropped by Cody.
-[KP] Oh, Dominik from behind! -A hit and run by Dom Dom.
He'll see you at Money in the Bank. [laughs]
[crowd booing]
[Irvin] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
the Women's World Champion Rhea Ripley,
and Dominik Mysterio!
[crowd booing]
Welcome!
[mouths] Shut up.
[inaudible conversation]
Welcome to M--
[booing louder]
[inaudible conversation]
-Welcome to-- -[booing louder]
Shut up! Shut up!
I got it from here. I got it from here.
Cody Rhodes…
[booing continues]
Oh, now you wanna boo me, huh?
Well, Cody Rhodes, your little favorite Cody Rhodes,
he is a wannabe and a loser.
His momentum has been slowing down as of late.
Yeah, that's true.
Yeah, exactly. And at Money in the Bank,
Dom's gonna end it completely.
-["Kingdom" playing] -[wild cheering]
♪ Adrenaline in my soul Every fight out of control ♪
♪ Do it all to get them off their feet ♪
♪ Crowd is here, about to blow ♪
♪ Waitin' for me to start the show ♪
♪ Out the curtain Lights go up, I'm home ♪
♪ Whoa! ♪
♪ And my father said, when I was younger ♪
♪ Hard times breed better men ♪
[KP] This Saturday afternoon at 3:00 p.m. Eastern,
Money in the Bank from the sold out O2 Arena in London,
The "American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes
will have his opportunity at revenge
when he takes on Dominik Mysterio.
[Corey] Cody Rhodes issued the challenge. Dirty Dom proudly accepted.
They're gonna throw down in the UK this Saturday.
But listen to this place! It is rocking for Cody Rhodes,
Oh, you wanna talk? Talk!
-You wanna talk? -Come on!
♪ Out the curtain Lights go up, I'm home ♪
[crowd] ♪ Whoa! ♪
♪ And my father said, when I was younger ♪
[crowd chanting] Cody! Cody!
Dom, I I think…
I think I know what you were trying to do.
I think…
it would have been pretty special.
I'll just go ahead and do it.
Savannah, Georgia…
[crowd cheering]
-Welcome to Monday Night Raw! -[Dom] I was just gonna say that!
That was what I was gonna say!
[indistinct chatter]
Cody, you can try and bully my Dom Dom as much as you like,
-but Dom is a very dangerous man. -[crowd booing]
Yeah, that's right.
-And that Money in the-- -[crowd booing]
Dom says that at Money in the Bank,
he's gonna show you exactly how dangerous he is.
Oh…
Thank you for the, uh…
Thank you for the education.
Dom, he's proved tactile and lobbed a few cheap shots,
proving rather dangerous, actually, if anything effective.
You're a smart guy.
I'm sure you have heard this one before then. Dom, Go ahead.
"Be who you are."
"Say how you feel because those who mind don't matter
and those who matter…
they don't mind."
Do you know who said it? Do you know who said that?
-Who said it? -The Cat in the Hat.
[laughter]
Yeah, The Cat in the Hat, a children's book,
and I am quoting a children's book because that's what you are.
You are a scared…
You are a scared little boy.
I'm right here.
[crowd booing]
Dom, come on.
Oh, come on. [indistinct]
Damian Priest isn't running from me.
Damian Priest, me and him tonight for the first time ever.
Why are you running, Dom? Come on, show me something.
Come on! Hey, Dom! Dom. Hey!
Dom, I'm right here. I will give you a free shot.
Let's do this here and now!
[crowd cheering]
[Corey] Uh-oh, here we go!
-Dominik's heard enough. -Come on!
Come on!
[crowd booing]
[KP] And Dominik backs away.
Okay, Dom.
Okay.
I see you walking.
I see you leaving, here we are again.
Like I said, these cheap shots have proven to be effective.
Dangerous, dirty. "Dirty" Dom.
But, Dom, on Saturday at Money in the Bank,
you are stepping in an entirely different body of water.
I want you to show me something.
I wanna find out, Dom,
if you are half the man that your father is.
[crowd gasping]
Or… or if you're just Mommy's little boy.
[crowd cheering]
I am a Mommy's boy.
[KP laughing]
[Corey] Incendiary words from the American Nightmare.
Money in the Bank.
[Corey] It is all going down this Saturday in London,
Money in the Bank, and Cody Rhodes is gonna find out firsthand
if in fact, Dominik's fight is as big as his part.
I'll tell you what. Plan your barbecues
around at 3:00 p.m., Eastern time this Saturday,
Money in the Bank from London, England.
Two other fellas that will be at Money in the Bank this Saturday,
Shinsuke Nakamura and Ricochet.
Shinsuke Nakamura in a match last week against Bronson Reed.
Ricochet taking his place ringside. And when Ricochet got involved,
well, Shinsuke Nakamura took his eye off the ball.
[Corey] A little unintentional contact opened the door for Big Bronson Reed,
to impose his will on not just his opponent,
but Ricochet as well.
Ricochet and Nakamura would collide
leading to an absolutely colossal Tsunami
-and a W for Bronson Reed. -[bell dings]
[KP] A penny for the thoughts of both Ricochet and Shinsuke Nakamura,
as the Aussie destroyer stood tall yet again.
-["The Rising Sun" playing] -[crowd cheering]
[crowd vocalizing]
[bell dings]
[Irvin] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from Kyoto, Japan, weighing in at 220 pounds,
Shinsuke Nakamura!
[KP] My, do they love the King of Strong Style
here in Savannah, Georgia!
[Corey] And in five days, Nakamura and Ricochet
will both compete in the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
But in a matter of moments, one-on-one, the King of Strong Style
versus the Human Highlight Reel, next.
[crowd vocalizing]
[KP] Saturday afternoon, at Money in the Bank
will be a life changing, a career-altering day
for one of these seven Superstars
involved in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
[Corey] The Money in the Bank contract,
essentially a golden ticket to the mountaintop.
And one of the many reasons Bronson Reed seems to be so upset
with Shinsuke Nakamura and Ricochet, who have both qualified
for the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
-Reed, the odd man out in this scenario. -Climb the ladder.
Grab the briefcase that contains a contract
for a championship match of your choosing, anytime, anyplace.
["It's About to Go Down" playing]
♪ Hey, hey, hey ♪
♪ It's about to go down ♪
[Irvin] And his opponent,
from Las Vegas, Nevada, weighing in at 207 pounds,
Ricochet!
[KP] Corey, many people saying, given the supernatural abilities
of this man here, you call him the Highlight of the Night, Ricochet.
Some are saying backstage, Ricochet is gotta be the favorite here.
[Corey] It's hard to argue. Ricochet certainly makes a strong case for himself
to be "a" favorite in the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
But I know someone who will certainly disagree with that assessment.
That being, Logan Paul. We found out last week
Logan has been entered into the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match. Lookout!
And, look, Logan Paul will be a very special guest
SmackDown from London,
truly must see.
[KP] This is the final stop in the United States
before hopping the pond to London, England,
Friday Night SmackDown, followed by Money in the Bank.
[Corey] And in this scenario, as talented as Ricochet and Nakamura both are,
to know that Bronson Reed is looming just mere feet away from the ring
has to be in the back of both Superstars' minds.
[KP] Also, I'm sure, trying to stay fit and healthy, for Saturday.
As we say, career-altering, it's life-changing,
that opportunity, with that briefcase and contract,
you can see, absolutely enormous.
[Corey] That's a great point, this is a great opportunity
for both Shinsuke and Ricochet to-- Oh!
…essentially weaken one of the other members on the field.
-Cover by Shinsuke. -Ricochet out just in time.
[Corey] If I'm Ricochet, I'm gonna target Nakamura's legs.
Or perhaps, the other way around. Try to limit what Ricochet is capable of.
Because as we know, he's a real life superhero.
[KP] Corey, nobody in this match has won the Money in the Bank Ladder Match before.
The most experienced, by a long shot, is Shinsuke Nakamura.
Think about the championships he's won in WWE,
also a Royal Rumble match winner.
Ricochet now… Caught a kick to the midsection of Ricochet.
[Corey] Great counter by the King of Strong Style,
much to the delight of "Big" Bronson Reed here,
and I think "big" may be the understatement of the year.
-The man is absolutely massive. -Looking slick as well with the shades.
[Corey] Ooh!
Axe kick…
homage to Booker T from Ricochet.
[KP] You mentioned Logan Paul. What about Butch?
…with me, Nakamura. That's going home with me.
[KP] Speaking of home, Butch will be home in England
as the only English competitor that will be in this match.
[Corey] Great escape by Nakamura.
You can ask that same question, KP,
about every member of the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
What about Santos Escobar, who's been on a steady upward trajectory here in WWE?
What about LA Knight?
And I can't wait to hear the UK crowd…
[KP] …respond to the megastar LA Knight, let's see.
Look at Shinsuke Nakamura now, using the ropes to his advantage!
-One, two, three… -Ricochet in a tough spot here.
…four. Let's go.
[Corey] Nakamura utilizing the official's count of five
to inflict some serious damage.
And Nakamura and Ricochet are the only two members
of the Men's Money in the Bank field
who have competed in Money in the Bank in the past.
The other five men, essentially rookies in this scenario.
-Oh, my God! -[KP] Man!
[Corey] Both Superstars with the exact same idea,
both… landing their kicks with full force.
And what is "Big" Bronson Reed thinking about?
-Come on, boys, let's go. -Come on, Bronson, let's go.
-Yeah, yeah-- I'm not doing nothin'. -Back up! Let's go. [indistinct]
[KP] That is a frightening sight
as Ricochet tries to seize the moment. Shinsuke Nakamura returning.
[Corey] Ricochet may thrive in the skies,
but he's also never afraid of playing his feet and swing.
[referee] Back up. Don't touch him.
-[Corey] Oh! -[KP] Oh, no!
[Corey] What?
Enzuigiri and a kick from Shinsuke!
[KP] Shin and Ricochet teaming up there.
A temporary alliance for mere seconds to flatten or kick Bronson Reed.
[Corey] But Reed still on his feet…
and furious at the moment.
-Dropkick by Ricochet. -[referee] What you doing?
[KP] Maybe Bronson Reed's gonna regret coming out here.
[Corey] Bronson really like a human punching bag right now.
-Look out! God. -Watch out, Corey.
-Hey, hey, back it up! -[KP] Reed is furious. He's enraged.
-That's it. You, out of here! -[Corey] Ricochet and Nakamura.
[KP] Bye bye, Bronson.
[Corey] Well, that's not gonna help his mood any.
[referee] Get it out of here.
[Corey] Bronson Reed has been ejected from ringside.
Ricochet and Nakamura rolls on…
provided Reed doesn't flatten the whole building.
[crowd booing]
[KP] Welcome back to Monday Night Raw.
Those Money in the Bank briefcases,
contracts inside containing a championship opportunity,
anytime, anywhere within a year.
Money in the Bank is this Saturday afternoon,
and two men competing in that Ladder Match,
Shinsuke Nakamura and Ricochet.
Bronson Reed's not there, but he still managed to come out by ringside.
[Corey] Bronson Reed was out here at the time
until he was met with a barrage of offense from both Ricochet
and Nakamura, who appeared to be working in unison
to thwart whatever Reed had in mind.
But here comes Nakamura.
[KP] Yeah, it's been a three-way collision for weeks now,
Bronson Reed involved, kicked out of this.
Now, nowhere to be seen as Ricochet and Shinsuke Nakamura go to work.
[Corey] Ricochet soaring through the skies of Savannah, as he does so very well.
That aerial expertise will lend itself to success this coming Saturday
-if you're Ricochet. -I cannot wait
to see Ricochet back inside the ring alongside Logan Paul.
We saw those fireworks at the Royal Rumble between that duo.
[Corey] Speaking of the Royal Rumble,
the only other single match that guarantees the victory,
a title opportunity here in WWE,
a match which Nakamura has won in the past.
Will Ricochet roar? Can he stick away Shinsuke Nakamura for the win?
Nakamura kicking out at two.
[Corey] Take a look at this.
When Ricochet's in the ring, a word of advice, don't blink.
You might miss something spectacular.
Just imagine what Ricochet will be capable of
when ladders are perfectly legal this Saturday
-in the Money in the Bank match! -[KP] You were talking about experience.
You saw the experience of Shinsuke Nakamura there,
reading the Springboard moonsault, knees to the gut.
Many knees and now stomps driving the wind out of Ricochet.
The well-educated feet of Shinsuke Nakamura doing heavy damage.
[KP] We've talked a lot about the competitors
involved in Saturday's Ladder Match.
What about Damian Priest of the Judgment Day?
[Corey] Certainly a dark horse candidate.
Damian Priest has been red hot as of late, and he's extremely motivated.
Inverted exploder does the trick.
Nakamura feeling some kind of way.
Shinsuke lands this and it's night night, Ricochet!
-[KP] Kick! -Ricochet out of the way.
-[KP] Just in time! -Recoil.
[KP] Is this the moment for Ricochet?
Grabs the leg to put away Shinsuke. No!
[Corey] Nakamura escapes out the back door.
[Ricochet screaming in frustration]
[Corey] Ricochet frustrated, understandably so.
But continuing to soldier forward, not allowing Shinsuke time to recover.
[KP] What a match we are witnessing.
What a match we will witness Saturday afternoon, 3:00 p.m., Eastern.
Shinsuke up in time.
[Corey] Precarious position for Ricochet.
And Shinsuke with an eviscerating knee to the guts of Ricochet.
Here we go!
Stopped again.
-Is this is The Matrix we're seeing? -This is insane.
Landing sliced bread by Ricochet.
How does he do it?
[KP] Ricochet has ideas. He wants more.
[Corey] From the High Red District…
[KP] Is this your moment, Ricochet?
[Corey] Ricochet, shooting star press.
But the knee was up, but he grabs the leg for the victory!
-Can he get it? Yes, he can. -[bell dinging]
[Irvin] Here is your winner, Ricochet!
[Corey] An outstanding effort from both competitors…
who are functioning at the highest of levels,
preparing for this Saturday's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
And if you thought the fireworks were spectacular tonight,
this is just an appetizer.
[KP] A sight to behold.
That's a breathtaking shooting star press.
The hangtime on it is surreal!
Ricochet, right on the money, pun heavily intended,
as Ricochet looks to earn a guaranteed title opportunity
at the time and place of his choosing.
Nakamura reminding Ricochet, "This is not over."
"In fact, we're just getting started."
You say "appetizer", I get excited for Saturday afternoon.
Now, how about Matt Riddle?
Because he's been a real thorn in the side of Imperium over recent weeks.
Last week, in a one-on-one opportunity against Ludwig Kaiser…
Kaiser here looking like he's rolling with Gunther,
the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion
watching on, but Riddle would turn it around.
Bro Derek pops the leg to put away Kaiser and gets it done.
-[bell dings] -[Corey] But the Original Bro's victory
would eventually draw the ire of the Intercontinental Champion, Gunther,
who was in search of vengeance on behalf of Giovanni Vinci,
who was injured by Matt Riddle some weeks ago.
And to say this was ugly… well, that's just not doing it justice.
A ruthless attack by the Intercontinental Champion,
and Ludwig Kaiser.
He keeps trying to injure me, and I'm gonna take something from Gunther,
and I'm gonna try to take his Intercontinental Championship.
And I'm gonna challenge him for the Intercontinental Championship
at Money in the Bank.
Right now, I'd like to welcome… Matt Riddle.
Riddle, earlier on today, you challenged the Ring General Gunther
to an intercontinental Championship match at Money in the Bank.
Do you think that's the smartest decision considering the number
that Imperium did on your ankle last week?
First of all, my ankle is cool enough, and I'm just sick and tired
of Gunther hiding behind his lunkhead friends.
Because when I get him one-on-one,
-I'm gonna smash-- -How dare you…
to challenge the Ring General?
Last week, you got exactly what you deserved for what you did to Giovanni.
So what makes you believe, you and your amateur skills,
that you've got what it takes to compete
for the Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship?
Well, bro, last week, I think I used
those amateur skills to beat you, didn't I, bro?
Well, that is never gonna happen again.
-News flash! -[both grunting]
[thwack]
Challenge…
accepted.
[Gunther grunts]
[screaming]
[Dominik] Hey, Pierce.
-Yes? -I was just embarrassed by Cody Rhodes.
And I want a match tonight so I can show him what's in store at Money in the Bank.
Okay. I think I can do that.
-Yeah? -Yeah.
I have the perfect opponent in mind.
Someone of my caliber, someone strong, someone big.
And I think I know exactly who that is.
Okay, who might that be?
We'll get back to you.
I can't wait to find out who's gonna end up holding Dom's pocket
by the end of the night. It's gonna be a rough night for some poor schlump.
Dom… much later, perhaps, as does Ronda Rousey here in mere moments,
but first back to Money in the Bank
and to hammer it home, 3:00 p.m. Eastern time this Saturday.
That's one important number.
For the rest of those vital numbers, here's our Jackie Redmond.
[Jackie] London, a world class city,
where royalty presides and opportunity looms.
The iconic Money in the Bank Ladder Match proves that fortune favors the bold.
The objective?
Climb the ladder and grab the briefcase.
To the victor, a guaranteed contract
for any championship match anytime, anyplace for up to one year.
In its 18-year history, 93 Superstars
have attempted to ascend the ladder, including seven WWE Hall of Famers,
but only 28 Superstars reached the summit and secured the coveted contract.
[Corey] Brock Lesnar, Alexa Bliss. John Cena is Mr. Money in the Bank!
[Jackie] Since its creation in 2005 at WrestleMania 21,
an astounding 78% of male contract holders
have successfully cashed in to win championship goals.
And as for Miss Money in the Bank, every woman, a perfect seven-for-seven
have turned their championship dreams into reality.
[commentator] We've got a championship match!
[Jackie] The Money in the Bank contracts can lead to career breakthroughs,
as 13 Superstars have used their contracts
to claim their first ever World Championship.
Edge! We got us a new World Champion!
Skull Crushing Finale. Miz's champion.
[Jackie] Only three Superstars have successfully cashed
in their contracts twice, including the "A-Lister" The Miz
and the "Rated-R Superstar" Edge.
[commentator] The Ultimate Opportunist has done it again!
[Jackie] Throughout its history,
there have been 30 Money in the Bank Ladder Matches.
For the women, Natalya holds the record, competing in five,
And on the men's side, the Big Red Machine, Kane
and the unparalleled Kofi Kingston have appeared in a record seven matches.
When it comes to Money in the Bank, chaos is the name of the game.
In a match full of mayhem, utilizing ladders comes naturally to some…
[J.R.] Oh, my Lord! Are you kidding me?
…while others have had their troubles.
[R-Truth] How am I supposed to climb a ladder? I got acrophobia, y'all!
[Jackie] Over a staggering 380 ladders have been used to one's advantage.
Remember, the purpose is to go up…
and to avoid going down.
Once they claim their prize, patience can be a virtue.
Carmella proves so when she successfully cashed in after a record 287 days,
And while a Superstar with no patience is Kane, who set the record in 2010,
waiting a miniscule 50m 15s before cashing in.
Kane is one of five Superstars to become champion
the same night they won their contract.
Bliss did it, Bliss is a champion!
[Jackie] And there's been only one Superstar to cash in at WrestleMania.
Seth Rollins wins the title! Rollins with the heist of a century!
[Jackie] The Money in the Bank Ladder Match has occurred in 17 different cities,
12 states, and even WWE corporate headquarters.
And this year, while the United States prepares to celebrate its independence,
for the first time ever, Money in the Bank heads across the pond.
Emanating from the O2 Arena in London, England,
with a special start time at 3:00 p.m. Eastern…
this year has its most wide open field yet,
with 8 of the 13 participants
competing in their first Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
Whose dream will be within their grasp?
What moments will be made?
A night where victory is only the beginning.
And the landscape of WWE can change forever.
WWE Money in the Bank.
♪ Money, money ♪
[Corey] What an occasion Saturday will be. Well, to the here and now.
[bell dinging]
[Irvin] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, accompanied by Shayna Baszler,
she is one half of the WWE Women's Tag Team Champion,
The Baddest Woman on the Planet,
"Rowdy" Ronda Rousey!
[KP] You are looking at two merciless and brutal champions
that now run all three brands.
But up next, Ronda Rousey will get her shot
against Raquel Rodriguez, before they do battle Saturday at Money in the Bank.
Don't go anywhere.
[KP] You're looking at two badasses that now rule over three brands.
Raw, SmackDown and NXT.
Last Friday night, unifying the Tag Team Championships
with a victory over a valiant Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn.
[Corey] The former NXT Women's Tag Team Champions,
Dawn and Fyre put up an extremely valiant effort.
But ultimately, in the closing moments,
the submission skills of Baszler and Rousey
just too much for the former champs to handle.
-Double tap out, double submission. -[bell dings]
And then there was one set of tag team champions.
Racquel, you're done with us.
What are you even doing here in the first place?
I am here because I want a rematch
for the titles that we never lost.
Who's "we"?
["Liv Gone Mad" playing]
[Corey] Liv Morgan returning from a shoulder injury.
It was the team of Morgan and Rodriguez
who were forced to relinquish their tag team titles
without ever being defeated for them due to injury.
But this is the reality now.
Rousey and Baszler, WWE Women's Tag Team Champions
in Ronda Rousey's way tonight.
[Irvin] …accompanied to the ring by Liv Morgan
from Rio Grande Valley, Texas,
Raquel Rodriguez.
[Corey] It's ironic that it's Money in the Bank week,
as nobody knows quite like Ronda Rousey what it's like to be victimized
by a Money in the Bank winner that being Liv Morgan.
[KP] Yeah, spot on. This Saturday at Money in the Bank,
the undisputed Women's Tag Team Championships are on the line
3:00 p.m., Eastern, as Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler
defend against the women that want their titles back.
[Corey] Look at the fire in the eyes tonight of Raquel Rodriguez.
Usually, Raquel smiles on her way to the ring.
Tonight, she is all business.
The same that's always true about "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey.
[KP] Ronda Rousey, let's not forget an Olympic medalist.
The UFC Hall of Famer, a former Raw and SmackDown Women's Champion,
now a Tag Team Champion in WWE.
Ronda Rousey already having a little trouble
with the sheer size of Raquel Rodriguez, an absolute powerhouse.
Rousey synching in a guillotine.
This is one way to take down a bigger opponent.
[KP] How can Raquel Rodriguez find her way out?
-Look at this for an answer. -Wow!
Raw power.
[KP] What is it about Raquel Rodriguez?
She saw it, firsthand, the devastation
that Rowdy Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler can cause
and yet always runs toward these battles.
[Corey] Raquel appears to be fearless, but right now Rousey
looking to snap Rodriguez's arm in two. It's a questionable decision,
if you're Raquel, to accept this matchup this close to a title opportunity,
just five days away. Someone like Ronda Rousey
can inflict some serious punishment on a… on a challenger.
[commentators exclaiming]
-[Corey] I guess… -That works on both sides.
[KP] Raquel Rodriguez now in full control, or is she?
Ronda Rousey always has a response.
[Corey] As a judo player, Rousey knows how to use leverage,
and the ankle lock cinched in…
could bring Raquel's evening to a close.
[KP] Raquel kicking out here.
Also, with Liv Morgan now back in play Saturday in the championship match…
[Corey] Oh. wait just a second. We can finish that question in a minute.
Oh!
That's one way to escape an armbar attempt.
[KP] Outrageous strength and agility from Raquel Rodriguez,
but her partner Saturday, you have to wonder how fit and healthy
Liv Morgan is, returning ahead of schedule.
Fallaway slam on Ronda.
Liv Morgan has been cleared by WWE's medical staff to compete in the ring,
but she better be as close to 100% as possible.
-Baszler with the assist. -Oh, look at this from Liv. Watch out!
[Corey] Liv Morgan looks pretty healthy to me, KP.
[KP] Nothing wrong with Morgan, teeing off now on Baszler.
[Corey] Gotta keep your eyes on Rousey.
Take down, pinning combination.
-Ronda gets the victory. -[bell dings]
[Irvin] Here Is your win--
[Corey] Rousey wisely getting the heck out of Dodge
lest she experience the wrath of Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez.
But it's all about this Saturday.
Women's Tag Team Championships on the line as Rousey and Baszler
-defend against Morgan and Rodriguez. -A highly charged match awaits.
Speaking of, how about Seth "Freakin" Rollins,
defending his World Heavyweight Championship
against Finn Bálor, and for the Prince, this goes beyond championship gold.
This is personal.
You want the guy that beat you seven years ago?
That guy's gone.
He's dead. [echoes] Dead, dead.
This guy…
is much worse.
What was it you said, Seth?
"I got bitter while you got better."
Let's analyze that, Seth.
Let's go back in time.
SummerSlam 2016…
a torn labrum,
a torn bicep tendon, torn pec tendon
and a fractured glen eyed socket.
And I still beat you.
I could hardly raise my arm to lift the title
as I became the first ever…
Universal Champion…
for 22 hours.
Injury upon injury upon injury, I was forced…
forced to relinquish the championship.
But that's not where our problems lie, Seth. No.
As I relinquished the championship,
at my lowest point,
you walked out and you laughed.
You laughed in my face.
You laughed out of jealousy. You laughed out of spite,
and you rubbed salt in the already open wounds.
And that is something that I will never forget.
You say I got bitter? No.
I didn't get bitter, Seth,
you made me bitter.
And that bitterness… that bitterness is all I have.
while you…
you have it all.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
They worship the ground you walk on.
They love your ridiculous outfits and they sing your stupid songs.
[crowd vocalizing]
But guess what? None of that matters to me.
The only things that matter to me…
are vengeance…
and the World Heavyweight Championship.
At Money in the Bank, after seven long years,
after everything you took from me,
I'm gonna take it all back.
And the only song around here is the ringing…
in your ears…
as both my arms are raised
as the new World Heavyweight Champion.
And that, Seth,
now, that's gonna be a bitter, bitter pill
for you to swallow.
[crowd cheering]
[KP] Finn Bálor wants vengeance.
Can he get it on Saturday afternoon?
Well, the Workhorse Champion is here.
The World Heavyweight Champion, Seth Rollins up next.
[KP] Money in the Bank is sold out,
and SummerSlam has limited tickets available.
But don't miss out on the action.
Saturday, September 2nd,
when WWE Payback will be live from PPG Paint Arena.
at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
This will mark the first premium live event
to emanate from Pittsburgh in five years.
Tickets available tomorrow at 10:00 a.m. Eastern on Ticketmaster.
[Corey] Steel City, make me proud.
♪ Burn it down! ♪
["Visionary" playing]
[crowd vocalizing]
[vocalizing grows louder]
♪ Burn it down! ♪
[Irvin] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
the World Heavyweight Champion,
Seth "Freakin" Rollins!
[KP] Corey, you can be sure that Seth "Freakin" Rollins
heard every word that Finn Bálor just had to say.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins is the Workhorse Champion.
I don't think he'll care who's coming up this coming Saturday afternoon.
He'll defend against anyone, anytime, anyplace.
[Corey] Seth Rollins had better have a singular focus this coming Saturday
with his World Heavyweight Championship on the line
because as Bálor said, he seeks not only the World Heavyweight Championship,
-but vengeance. -[crowd continues vocalizing]
[man] You're a clown!
[KP] The longer they sing, the more it bothers Finn Bálor.
This It is a match you simply cannot miss.
3:00 p.m., Eastern.
[Seth] Savannah, Georgia!
-[crowd cheering] -[Corey] Stop, KP, the champ's talking.
Welcome
to Monday Night Rollins!
Now, before we get cooking here tonight,
we got a special guest in the arena.
Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together
for the one, the only, NXT Champion himself…
Carmelo Hayes.
[Corey] "Melo Don't Miss" a very, very special guest.
[crowd chanting] NXT! NXT!
I am here.
I stand by me. I am here.
Now, Melo…
I don't do this very often, but you had my back this past Tuesday on NXT.
So I just wanted to say thank you.
You're welcome, Seth.
You got it, champ. I like you, boss. I got you.
[Seth] And we've got more in common
than being the two fliest dudes in the room.
We are both fighting champions.
As a matter of fact, my man Melo,
you got a title defense tomorrow night on NXT.
Please whoop up on that bum ass, Corbin.
You know we don't miss.
[Seth laughs]
And as for me,
this Saturday afternoon live, London, England.
I go one-on-one at Money in the Bank with Finn Bálor.
[crowd booing]
A couple of weeks ago, I posed the question,
"Which Finn Bálor was going to show up at Money in the Bank?"
Last week, I got my answer in spades because Finn Bálor jumped me not once,
but he followed me all the way down to NXT,
jumped me again,
tried to turn my ribs to dust.
[crowd booing]
But here's the thing, Finn,
I'm still standing.
[crowd cheering]
I'm still standing. Money in the Bank's this Saturday.
I'm tired of talking.
So why don't you come on out here and finish the job right now?
[crowd cheering]
[crowd vocalizing]
[Seth chuckles]
Y'all, I wish that singing was gonna draw him out,
but I promise you this.
Finn Bálor is not coming out here right now.
[crowd booing]
I gotta hand it to you, Finn.
You are…
the smartest you've ever been.
You are the most dangerous you've ever been.
You have surrounded yourself with all the right people.
You are gonna keep hiding in the back. Hiding in the shadows.
You have tricked yourself into believing that it is your fate, your destiny,
to take everything from me that I took from you
seven and a half years ago.
Am I 100% right now, Savannah?
No, I'm not.
Will I be 100% this Saturday at Money in the Bank?
No, I will not.
[man] Let's go!
But as good…
as Finn Bálor is, there is one thing that he has not accounted for.
And that's me.
Because I promise you this, when it's just you and me, Finn,
standing inside this ring, when the bell rings
the best version of Finn Bálor
is not as good
as the best version of Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
[crowd cheering]
And that…
is a bitter pill…
that you're going to have to swallow
because I am…
a Visionary,
I am… a Revolutionary.
I am…
Seth--
-[Corey] Bálor is here. -With a chair in hand!
[Corey] Rollins beat Finn to the punch.
The World Heavyweight Champion is teeing off
on the man who will challenge him this Saturday.
And Bálor went to the ribs.
-Bálor went to Seth-- -Oh, no!
[Corey] Rollins is bulldozing Finn into the corner.
[KP] Rollins had him read.
And this is Seth "Freakin" Rollins' chance now,
[Corey] Rollins sent into the stairs, ribs first, yet again.
Rollins already admitted he wasn't 100%.
And again, ribs first into the announce table,
and the challenger… making the most of this attack.
[KP] Three Coup de Graces last week to the heart of Seth Rollins.
[Corey] Carmelo Hayes just ripped the chair out of Finn's hands.
[KP] Rollins put Bálor across the barricade.
[Corey] Finn Bálor making his exit,
and Rollins certainly owes a debt of gratitude
for the NXT Champion, Carmelo Hayes,
who may have just prevented disastrous circumstances for the champion.
[crowd vocalizing]
[KP] Hayes so clutch in that moment.
["Visionary" playing]
[Corey] Rollins doing his best to fight through the pain.
Will he be able to do that same thing this Saturday afternoon
when the World Heavyweight Championship is on the line?
[KP] Last week, we thought we'd see an open challenge for Rollins,
instead, Miz tried to grab the opportunity in his hometown.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins promised
an open challenge tonight, but he did not deliver.
So I'm going to issue my own open challenge
right here, right now to anyone in Cleveland.
♪ No one will survive ♪
[KP] And we were all stunned when Ciampa emerged.
[Corey] An old pal of The Miz.
[KP] Until…
-Ring the damn bell. -[referee] Ring the bell.
[Corey] Ciampa would show his colors
and turn his back on his onetime mentor, The Miz.
The Fairy Tale Ending from Ciampa
and a sour night for the A-Lister.
[bell dings]
♪ There's no escape now ♪
[crowd cheering]
Tommaso Ciampa, last week you made your return.
"Why?" Right? You're gonna ask, "Why did you attack The Miz last week?"
I spent the last nine months of my life rehabbing from hip surgery.
You know how many times The Miz reached out,
phone calls, text messages, anything?
Zero.
For the last nine months, I haven't heard one peep from Mr. Tiny Balls.
Is that funny?
You know what's funny?
People warned me about The Miz.
They said he's a user, a manipulator, and they were right.
And this injury, this injury was a blessing in disguise.
Two hundred and seventy five days is a long time
for a guy to be left alone with his thoughts, it gives you clarity.
What's your why?
Who are your friends? Most importantly,
why in the hell is Tommaso Ciampa wearing a neon green vest
following around and playing second fiddle to The Miz?
This time around,
I create my own opportunities.
[crowd booing]
[KP] From a friend to a fierce enemy.
Ciampa has turned on The Miz,
and The A-Lister has his chance when they go one-on-one, next.
♪ Reach out and we take it ♪
[Corey] Moments ago, folks…
I am…
Seth--
[Corey] Seth Rollins would be ambushed by Finn Bálor,
the man who will challenge him for the World Heavyweight Championship
this Saturday at Money in the Bank.
But Rollins appeared to be ready for the attack.
-At least initially. -He certainly did.
But then, when Finn Bálor somehow managed to turn it around,
we knew what Bálor would do.
Targeting the ribs of Seth Rollins.
[Corey] Rollins sent into the steel ring stairs
and then, moments later,
into the edge of our announce table.
[KP] Bálor was all over Seth Rollins at this point until…
the NXT Champion,
we've seen mutual respect between Carmelo Hayes and Rollins,
and Rollins taking that opportunity to dump Bálor to the outside.
[Corey] Finn Bálor, high tailing out of the ringside area.
But still to come tonight, how about this?
[KP] This is breaking, and this is huge.
The NXT Champion is set for his Monday Night Raw debut
against Finn Bálor. Corey, this is massive!
[Corey] This is why you always have your gear on you when you travel.
Because you never know when you're gonna get into a fight.
Well done, Carmelo. I can't wait.
[machine beeping and flatlining]
["No One Will Survive" playing]
[bell dings]
[Irvin] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, weighing in at 201 pounds,
Tommaso Ciampa!
-[Corey] We heard Champa mentioned 275-- -[KP] Hang on a second!
Look behind, Tommaso!
[Corey] The A-Lister, The Miz!
[crowd booing]
[KP] Miz isn't waiting around for any announcement or introduction.
[Corey] Miz was humiliated and embarrassed by a man he trusted last week.
Ciampa showed his true colors to be an absolute turncoat.
[KP] Ciampa felt that The Miz took advantage of his good will.
His willingness to help The A-Lister.
He never called him or texted him.
-[referee] Miz, that's enough. Let's go. -[Corey] Miz is an A-lister.
Miz was busy doing A-lister things
[KP] Oh, man! Kick to the head of Ciampa.
[Corey] That's exactly what this ingrate deserves.
Think of the heights Ciampa could have reached
under the guidance of The Miz.
[overlapping dialogues]
[Corey] Time to go back… [indistinct]
[KP] Ciampa had hip surgery.
Just feeling that hip there as The Miz goes back for more.
Miz, that's enough. Come on, let's go!
[Corey] Miz, eager to collect his pound of flesh…
after being humiliated last week.
There's a reason Miz has been around here and so successful for so long.
[KP] Come on, Miz.
[Corey] Come on, Miz, what-- Skull Crushing Finale.
Perhaps the most justified one ever.
I gave you opportunity after opportunity.
You disrespect me?
That's enough, Miz. Get it out of here. That's it.
Chump!
-That's it, let's go! -You're a chump.
[Corey] That's exactly it.
[man chanting] Miz, you suck! Miz, you suck!
You're a chump. You're a Savannah Banana.
[speaking German]
[in English] It is official.
Matt Riddle, Intercontinental Heavyweight Championship
at Money in the Bank.
No, no, no, no, no, no, no. Keep walking.
-Keep walking. -What do you mean?
It seems… it seems like you don't like it
when people just interrupt you for no reason.
We don't have time for this. Keep walking.
You think we have time when you do it to us every week? No, we don't have time.
At least we have a reason to be here right now.
A reason? What is your reason?
What's the reason?
What's the reason? I don't-- Why are we here?
Matt Riddle.
-Riddle? -What they did to Matt Riddle tonight.
-I don't care what they did to Riddle. -He's our friend.
-We care? -We care!
-How could you do that to Matt Riddle… -Guess what?
-…and his ankle. -We care. And guess what?
-We're gonna do something about it. -Yeah!
-Are you? -Yeah, we're all aware
discipline is not necessarily your expertise.
But you should be really careful with your words right now
because if you're not, the Ring General might have to teach you
the very same lesson that he taught your friend Kevin Owens over here…
a few weeks ago,
when he absolutely annihilated him.
You taught me something? You didn't teach me anything.
-I learned nothing. -Take it down.
-I didn't learn anything. -I know, fine.
-I learned nothing. -I'll handle this.
Okay, fine. Okay. Handle it.
Fine. Fair enough.
You guys did beat Kevin Owens a few weeks ago, but guess what?
It took three of you.
Three of you, and it seems with Imperium, every time it's a numbers game.
So how about this?
Why don't we keep the numbers game real simple tonight?
So how about you and me,
-one-on-one, tonight? -There we go.
[crowd cheering]
I'm fully aware that, just like your friend over there,
and Matt Riddle at Money in the Bank,
you also want to ride on my coattails.
Sami…
be my guest.
You know what? That's a good idea.
I will be your guest.
[indistinct chatter]
You have a guest.
[indistinct chatter]
[Corey] Sami Zayn has just stepped in it.
There is a healthy dose of discipline coming his way, courtesy of Gunther.
[KP] What a match coming up on Raw.
[Corey] And here's a man who knows nothing of discipline. He's an outlaw.
[bell dings]
[Irvin] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first,
accompanied by the Women's World Champion Rhea Ripley,
representing The Judgment Day,
Dominik Mysterio!
[Corey] I could not be more disappointed in the city of Savannah
and the disrespect they're showing for "Dirty" Dom.
That's really rich coming from a city whose primary sports team's
-called the Banana! -Oh, you're gonna pick on Savannah?
It's not just Savannah. It's every city we go to.
Dominik Mysterio is set for action here on Monday Night Raw,
but against who?
I'm sure he had Rhea Ripley by his side as always,
I cannot wait to figure out who's gonna take on Dom.
That's coming your way next on Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] I don't know if there's anybody brave enough to step up. Let's be honest.
[KP] A "Where were you when?" moment in WWE history.
Commemorate, relive the 25th anniversary
of The Undertaker and Mankind's iconic Hell in a Cell Match
from King of the Ring in 1998.
The two Hall of Famers meet, they sit down, they relive it.
They have a legendary chat. I advise you to go and check this out
on YouTube or across WWE social platforms. Corey, this was a lot of fun.
[Corey] Absolute joy to watch two of the all-time greats commemorate
one of the greatest moments in WWE history.
But now it's time to get down to business.
"Dirty" Dom Mysterio and the Women's World Champion
looking to teach Cody Rhodes a thing or two about hard time.
[KP] Oh, yeah, sure. The American Nightmare.
You're talking about the main event of WrestleMania, Cody Rhodes here,
standing in Dominik Mysterio's way.
[Corey] But for now, who's it gonna be?
["To The Death" playing]
Yes!
[Irvin] And his opponent, from Kobe, Japan,
weighing in at 156 pounds,
Akira Tozawa!
[Corey] It was a very brave move by Dominik
to accept the challenge of Tozawa
this close to a massive match at Money in the Bank.
[KP] Well, folks, cash in on the opportunity
to own a one of a kind piece of WWE memorabilia
at Support Connor's Cure.
Scan the QR code on your screen or visit wwe.me/connorscureauction.
[Corey] There you see, Akira Tozawa,
a, I think, 20 to 30-time former 24/7 Champion.
[KP] Keep going. Keep going.
A stamina monster.
[bell dings]
-[Corey] I'm a former 24/7 Champion. -Yes, you are.
[Corey] And look at Dom go! Doing it like we do in the yard.
Well, they do in the yard. I don't have that sort of street cred.
Look at Mommy glow.
[crowd booing]
[indistinct chatter]
[KP] No disrespect to Akira Tozawa.
The only thing he and Cody Rhodes have in common is the hair color.
Cody Rhodes will be a different kettle of sharks in the weekend.
-Who are you to doubt Tozawa? -I'm not gonna doubt him right now.
Look at him go!
You sound like all these Rhea Ripley simps who populate the crowd,
that are mad at Dom because he's got a good woman by his side.
-[KP] No one's doubting that. -[Rhea] There you go!
[KP] Here it goes. Akira Tozawa.
-Ho ho ho! -Dom caught off guard momentarily.
Tozawa-- Shining wizard!
[KP] The power of Tozawa, I mean, would this even be an upset?
-[Rhea] Dom! -[Corey] Of course, it would be an upset.
[KP] Akira Tozawa taking flight.
Now, look at Akira Tozawa!
-How nervous is Rhea Ripley? -Dominik's clearly distracted.
He's worried about Cody Rhodes, and the match,
and the boos at the O2 this Saturday are gonna be unbelievable.
-[KP] Come on, Akira! -My God!
[screaming]
[Corey] Tozawa using himself like a bullet!
[KP] Uh-oh.
[Corey] Take a look at this, throwing caution to the wind.
[screams]
[KP] Mommy's presence.
Did you see the look in Tozawa's eyes?
[Corey] Tozawa understandably distracted by the women's World Champion.
But don't let Dom catch you looking, Tozawa.
You get dealt with.
-[KP] That he did. -[crowd booing]
Dom quickly to the top rope.
-Dom, frog splash! -Oh ho, baby!
[KP] And Mysterio gets the victory.
[Irvin] Here's your winner,
Dominik Mysterio!
[Corey] What a victory!
[KP] What a performance by Tozawa.
[Corey] Why are you talking about Tozawa?
You are looking at "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio
and the Women's World Champion, Rhea Ripley.
A true power couple.
And look at the athleticism!
-They don't teach you that in Rikers. -From the sky.
[Corey] That is God-gifted athleticism from Dominik Mysterio.
And people wonder what Rhea sees in him.
[KP] Rhea helping out Dominik here yet again.
Alone on Saturday when Dom takes on Cody Rhodes.
The gods have not spoken to me in weeks.
And to hear them again, we must do terrible things.
Soon we will hurt the Alpha Academy,
And when all three of you are laying in the ring,
blinded by pain, I will hear them again.
-And it will be… -Beautiful.
-[KP] Man, that was creepy. -[Lil' Kim] I don't care what y'all say.
["Time To Rock & Roll feat. Lil' Kim" playing]
[KP] All of a sudden, Corey Graves starts smiling.
[Corey] Huh? What's not to be excited about, KP?
[KP] The Hall of Famer Trish Stratus and Zoey Stark,
two competitors in Saturday afternoon's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
[Irvin] Please welcome Zoey Stark
and WWE Hall of Famer, Trish Stratus!
Corey, you're about to get a little bit closer to the Hall of Famer.
-KP, I need you to hold down the fort. -I've got it, buddy. Go get 'em.
Corey Graves getting set to host a Money in the Bank summit,
with all competitors in the Women's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
And that's coming your way next here on Monday Night Raw.
[Corey] I'm gonna go say thank you to Trish real quick.
[KP] Welcome back! A sold out arena.
And, man, is it getting crowded in the ring?
The Man of the people, Becky Lynch arriving on the scene.
Becky Lynch told us.
[Irvin] Please welcome "The Man" Becky Lynch!
[KP] "The Man" Becky Lynch was a guest
on our After the Bell podcast during the week
and spoke about the one thing
that's eluded her throughout her illustrious WWE career,
and that is winning the Money in the Bank contract.
Desperate for that accomplishment Saturday afternoon in London.
Superstars galore.
Welcome, everybody, to the Money in the Bank Summit,
and in just five days,
these six women will all have the opportunity to climb a ladder
just like these…
-to reach a briefcase-- -Yeah. Yeah, we know how it works, okay?
-We're not idiots. -[crowd booing]
Well, these guys are. [laughs]
Actually, actually,
I've won one of these matches before.
Actually, I'm the only woman in this match
who has won a Money in the Bank contract.
So… if you could just let me run the whole thing right now,
since I probably have the biggest chance at winning on Saturday,
or…
or Iyo-- Iyo has got a good chance of winning, too. It'd be cool.
[speaking Japanese]
[in English] May the best woman win.
-Right. -[Zelina speaks Japanese]
[in English] I am so sick of Damage CTRL completely dismissing
all of the other competitors in this match.
-Okay, look, we have Becky Lynch, okay? -[crowd cheering]
Someone…
Someone who I respect.
I mean, you've done it all.
Except win the Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
We have…
Wait, wait, we have Zoey, the groupie.
And then we have Trish Stratus, right?
Yeah.
Yes, a legend.
A legend, but a legend
who's never even been in a ladder match and has no idea what that takes.
And whether you like it or not,
you have me, the future Miss Money in the Bank--
[Bayley laughs shrilly]
You guys can calm down. You ain't got a chance, pipsqueak.
[speaks Japanese]
[in English] Bayley. If I wanted to hear more out of you or you,
I would have tossed the coin in your begging bowls.
Uh-huh.
Tú estás hablando con the wrong one,
because I will prove each and every one of you wrong,
when Santos and I
climb that ladder and bring that Money in the Bank contract
home to the LWO.
Oh, yeah, that's what you think, huh? You're a bigger idiot than you look.
Okay, because Iyo and I are gonna be the ones
that are gonna walk out with that briefcase.
[overlapping dialogues]
[Bayley] It ain't you, and it ain't you, and it ain't you.
…little kids on a playground. Calm down!
Actually, what I see is a bunch of little girls.
[crowd chanting] Becky! Becky!
And, you know, it's very clear to me why you guys needed me
to save the Woman's Division, because I am not a little girl.
I am a woman.
And in fact, I'm the best and the greatest woman to ever do this.
And, Zelina, you're right.
This is my first ladder match.
But you know what?
Winning, honey, it's what I do.
And when I make history on Saturday
and I get that Money in the Bank contract, guess what?
Ladies, you all you can say, "Thank you, Trish,
for letting me be a part of such a historic moment."
And you, Lynch…
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Becky! Becky!
Now, I can't really call you a little girl.
I can't really call you a woman.
Because you're "The Man" or whatever.
But let me ask you this.
When it's all said and done,
will you be man enough
to say, "Thank you, Trish"?
[KP] Oh! Becky means business, and The Man ain't hanging around,
and it's all kicking off here between six competitors,
that will hope to win the Money in the Bank contract
on Saturday afternoon.
Becky Lynch now tosses Trish Stratus to the outside.
And there goes Zoey Stark.
Bayley and Iyo both have an ax to grind with The Man.
What will it be like On Saturday afternoon…
as every Superstar
tries to become Miss Money in the Bank?
Only Bayley has done that before.
[Corey] It was getting too hot in there. I had to get out of there.
[KP] Are you okay, buddy? Glad you're back safely.
Oh! there goes Iyo.
[Corey] Iyo and Lynch now teeing off inside the ring.
[KP] Oh, Becky's head off the ropes.
The Genius of the Sky looking to take flight.
[Corey] Iyo just taking out the field with the moonsault.
[KP] But look inside, Corey,
will that be the sort of mistake that will leave an opening?
[Corey] This could be a glimpse into the future.
Will Becky Lynch be The Man to climb the ladder?
[KP] You could be looking at Becky in the Bank!
["Celtic Invasion" playing]
[Corey] This Saturday afternoon, O2 Arena in London,
these six women all have the opportunity of a lifetime.
Climb the ladder, retrieve the briefcase,
and you receive a guaranteed title match at the time and place of your choosing.
The women, historically, have 100% success rate.
Literally, life changing.
WWE Universe, please join me in welcoming my guest at this time,
NXT Champion Carmelo Hayes.
Now, Carmelo, this is your very first Monday Night Raw,
and you find yourself facing the Judgment Day's Finn Bálor.
How are you feeling? What's going through your head?
You know who invited me here?
Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
We're talking about the World Heavyweight Champion, Seth "Freakin" Rollins.
You know what an honor it is to be here on Monday Night Raw?
Look, Seth Rollins is not only somebody as a performer I aspire to be like
but a champion that I aspire to be like as well.
So I'm gonna go ahead tonight, and I'm gonna take care of that
Seth Rollins problem in Finn Bálor.
And I questioned, you know, maybe I'm making a mistake about it,
but if I have to go out tonight in a blaze of glory
and handle my business tomorrow against Baron Corbin for the NXT Championship,
then that's what I'm gonna do.
Because sometimes guys like me, guys like Seth,
you've got to take shots to make shots.
And, Kathy, tonight…
I won't miss.
[crowd cheering]
["Symphony No. 9 in E Minor" playing]
[Corey] A motivated NXT Champion ready for battle tonight and tomorrow.
[KP] Love that confidence.
[bell dings]
[Irvin] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, accompanied by Ludwig Kaiser,
representing Imperium,
he is the Intercontinental Champion,
the "Ring General" Gunther!
[KP] We saw Gunther put a vicious beatdown
on Matt Riddle earlier on tonight.
The match we will see coming up at Money in the Bank,
but before that, here tonight, on Monday Night Raw,
Sami Zayn, leaping to the defense of Riddle,
will go one-on-one with the "Ring General" Gunther.
[Corey] Both are looking to dole out a healthy dose of discipline, live, next.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd booing]
[chuckles] You better hope that you don't win that briefcase.
Because if you even think about cashing it in on me,
it'll be the last thing you ever do here in the WWE.
Okay, you know what's interesting?
Is that when I was the champion,
my title was defended in every town in the main event,
but you, you've become a main event side piece.
See, I don't need that title, that title needs me.
But I wanna win the briefcase just to watch you squirm.
Tata.
["Symphony No. 9 In E Minor" playing]
[Corey] She certainly appears confident
ahead of this Saturday's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
But speaking of confidence, look no further.
[KP] The Ring General, the stoic nature of Gunther with Ludwig Kaiser by his side
and at Money in the Bank
on Saturday afternoon, 3:00 p.m., Eastern,
Gunther, will he be teaching more consequences and lessons to Riddle?
What condition will Riddle be after the beatdown earlier tonight?
[Corey] I hope whatever medical facility Riddle's chilling out in right now
has USA so they can watch what Gunther does to Sami.
[Irvin] And his opponent, accompanied to the ring by Kevin Owens,
he is one half of the undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions,
Sami Zayn!
[KP] Would you listen to the roar for Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens
here in Savannah, Georgia?
No doubt they'll be taking that roar across the pond
to the O2 Arena Friday night
when they defend their undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships
against "Yes, boy", Pretty Deadly.
-[Corey] That was embarrassing. -It was, it was.
-You should apologize to Kit and Elton. -[KP] I'm sorry to everybody.
-I was cringing as I did it, really. -[Corey] Never again.
Next time, I'm gonna have Gunther handle the business.
[KP] Lesson learnt.
[Corey] It looks like we're being joined here at ringside
by the other half of the WWE Tag Team Champions,
-Kevin Owens, Kevin, welcome. -[man] Hey, Owens!
-Hey, can you hear us clearly? -[KO] Yes, I can hear you.
-All right, why don't you do a "Yes, boy"? -[KP] Well, I'm too embarrassed now.
-I'm too embarrassed now. -[KO] What happened? I missed it.
[KP] I said the whole "Yes, boy" thing,
but I wasn't doing it in favor of Pretty Deadly.
-[Corey] It was perverse. -[KP] I wish you the best this Friday.
Lesson learnt.
[KO] Focus on this, Kevin Patrick, be professional.
[Corey] Let me ask you this, KO, as somebody who competed very recently
against the Intercontinental Champion, Gunther,
what does Sami have to do in this contest to emerge victorious?
[KO] Well, obviously has to stay away
from Ludwig, the other one, baldy with the crutch there,
because it wasn't just competing against Gunther,
it's competing against all of them. As Sami said earlier, the numbers game.
They love using that. But guess what? I'm here, I'm paying attention,
and it's not gonna work out the same way. Trust me.
[KP] You guys don't shy away from battle at all, do you?
It's such a massive championship match to come on Friday, Kevin.
Was this an ill-advised move by Sami?
Ill-advised? This is what we do. This is what Sami Zayn and I do.
We fight, we leave everything we have in the ring every week.
There's no mistake. This is what we do.
[Corey] A very basic offense from the Ring General,
side headlock takeovers,
maintaining control over a downed Sami Zayn.
[KP] You've come around to Riddle, of late, Kevin,
-haven't you? -[KO] I have not.
-[KP] Not at all? -[KO] It's very nice
when he comes out to help us if we need help,
but besides that, you know, I don't really, uh…
you know…
We're different people with different interests.
I don't know what to say.
[Corey] There we go.
[KO] That's an interest I have. Nice, deep arm drags.
Nobody does it better than Sami Zayn.
[Corey] In your professional opinion, what's the sort of chance, if any,
does Riddle stand against Gunther this Saturday in London?
I mean, Riddle is a fantastic competitor, I can't deny that,
so I think he's got a pretty good chance.
Again, if the numbers game doesn't get him, you know?
That's what happens with Gunther and his henchmen…
They don't like being called henchmen, but they're henchmen.
That's what they are. They're Gunther's henchmen.
Tell them they're a henchman. You're a henchman.
-[Corey] You hear that, KP? -[KP] I did.
-[KO] Say it. -[KP] Henchman.
[KO] Thank you.
[Corey] Face first into the top turnbuckle.
Sami Zayn, now, looking to throw a few hands.
[KO] On the nose, come on, get him right on the bridge.
Oh, speaking of Baldy with the crutches…
-You see? -[Corey] Ah, Giovanni Vinci.
The member of Imperium,
who was injured at the hands of Matt Riddle.
[KP] He's making his way slowly down toward the ring.
[KO] No, no, no! Grab the rope! Grab the rope!
[Corey] No!
My God!
It's okay. He'll bounce back. Bounce back, buddy. Come on.
[Corey] Let's see if Sami Zayn can bounce back. Imperium in full effect.
[KP] Sami Zayn starting to rally here against Gunther.
[commentators exclaiming]
[Corey] My goodness!
It's okay. Shake it off, shake it off.
Easier said than done.
But you can do it. Come on, Sami.
Come on, man.
[Corey] Kevin, you've experienced firsthand the brutality of the chops
of the Intercontinental Champion. How does Sami fight back after that?
[KO] Once he makes sure his heart's still beating,
he's just gotta fight back, throw everything he's got at Gunther,
because that's what you gotta do to try to beat him.
You're not gonna beat Gunther going 50%, 75%. That's just not how it works.
But nobody's got a heart like Sami Zayn. Trust me, anybody knows, I know.
Come on, yes! Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah!
[Corey] Sami wants the Exploder suplex.
-Gunther doing his best to fight out! -[KO] Come on.
You wanna pop those heads?
[Corey] No! God!
Come on, shake it off, man. Come on.
[Corey] Sami Zayn isn't…
Listen.
Oh, my!
Sami's body is wracked with pain, courtesy of the Intercontinental Champion.
Come on, Sami, Get out of that corner! Get out of that corner!
Punch him in the kneecap. I did it, it worked. Come on.
[Corey] Kevin, as this match progresses, is there any concern that Sami
may be less than 100% for Friday night when you guys defend yourself?
[KO] No, there's no concern for that. Sami Zayn has more heart than anyone.
I just said--
Obviously, this battle is not gonna help anything.
But when we go into Friday-- What are you looking at?
-What are you looking at? Huh? -What?
What are you looking at?
Yeah. You think it's impressive you're jumping him, good job!
You can slap him in the chest real hard.
Wait till he gets you back.
There we go. That's what I'm talking about. Come on.
There we go!
[Corey] Zayn yet again, looking to rally.
-[KO] Kick him in the face. Come on! -[Corey] Rapid fire boots.
[KO] There we go. There we go.
Do it.
[Corey] Gunther putting on the brakes, trying to prevent a DDT.
It's okay. You're still there.
-[Corey] Oh, my God! -[KO] Get him!
[Corey] Gunther now, joining Zayn on the ropes.
-[KO] Block it, block it, block it. -[Corey] Here we go.
[KO] Come on! Come on!
Come on! Right in the ribs.
[Corey] Sami Zayn desperately trying to fight his way
out of this predicament, managing to do--
[KO] Everything you've got, everything you've got.
There we go.
Do it.
[KP] What a rally from Sami-- Oh!
-Gunther for the win. -Come on. Come on.
-Come on. -[KP] Very close to the count of three.
Let's take another look. Sami, with a fantastic reversal.
-[KO] Look at the count. -[crowd] Two! Three!
[Corey] Just barely before the count of three.
[KO] Very close, though, and Gunther knows it.
-[Corey] But Sami's still alive, KO. -[KO] I know.
[Corey] I know you, of all people, aren't surprised.
[KO] Come on.
Come on. Come on.
[Corey] Zayn looking to make something spectacular happen
as the momentum begins to shift Sami's way.
[KO] There we go.
Don't give him an edge, come on.
Right back, right back. There we go.
[KP] Oh, what heart! What resilience from Sami Zayn!
[Corey] Sami, up and-- Oh, look out!
Yeah!
-Come on! -[Corey] With that clothesline, Zayn.
Follow through, grabs, Blue Thunder Bomb! But sleeper hole applied.
Sami's gotta be fading.
No mortal man can withstand this type of pressure.
[crowd chanting] Sami! Sami!
-Kevin, your partner's starting to fade. -[KO] No, he's not. No, he's not.
Come on, Come on, you got this. You got this. You got this. Here we go.
Here we go.
[Corey] Zayn trying to ignite some semblance of a rally.
[indistinct shouting]
-Blue Thunder Bomb! -[crowd] One! Two!
[Corey] Can he do it, though?
And Gunther now again barely escapes before the count of three.
Come on, Sami. You got it.
[Corey] Sami Zayn reminding the WWE Universe
of his tenacity and surprising power.
The Blue Thunder Bomb nearly knocking off the Intercontinental Champion.
And, Kevin, I think the entire WWE Universe
echoed your sentiments in that moment.
[KO] Come on. Go, go, go, go, go, go!
-[KP] What heart from this man, Sami Zayn! -[crowd chanting] Let's go, Sami!
[commentators exclaim]
-[KO] Kick out, kick out. -[Corey] Good night.
[KO] Oh, he's still alive!
-[Corey] That was two, here we go. -Sami's still alive!
[Corey] Gunther continuing the onslaught, got hung up on the ropes.
Gunther feeling the pressure now. From the top…
-Big splash! -[crowd] One! Two!
[KO] Oh, that was two!
-[Corey] And Sami kicked out! -How about that look on…
[KP] Can you believe it?
-[Corey] KO's seen enough. -[KP] KO's outta here.
[Corey] Oh, he just flattened Kaiser!
It's like a hockey fight at ringside.
[KP] Oh, Gunther!
[Corey] Just kicked the features off of Owen's face.
Watch Out, Sami Zayn!
Suicide dive by Zayn!
And you can see the electricity in the eyes of Sami Zayn.
[KP] It's coursing through his veins as well.
Sami Zayn, the underdog soldering forward.
Fueled by the WWE Universe!
[Corey] Exploder!
[KP] How does this man continue to do this?
[Corey] Continuing to defy the odds, Zayn lining it up.
But watch, watch Giovanni Vinci
with the crutch to the throat of Zayn.
-A devastating power bomb will do it. -[crowd] One! Two! Three!
[bell dings]
[upbeat music playing]
[Irvin] Here's your winner,
the Intercontinental Champion,
the "Ring General" Gunther!
[crowd booing loudly]
[Corey] It had to be a disheartening defeat for Sami Zayn.
Perhaps even demoralizing for the Ring General,
the Intercontinental Champion was taken to the limit
-and might have been defeated-- -[KP] Oh, Kevin Owens!
Kevin Owens is back for more, but it's two-on-one.
[Corey] And don't forget, Giovanni Vinci is still present,
-utilizing his crutch as a weapon-- -["Hey Bro" playing]
[KP] And the man…
who will take on Gunther at Money in the Bank
with an injured ankle making his way down to the ring.
[Corey] I don't know how Hopalong Cassidy is gonna fare this Saturday…
-[KP] Ow! -…with one good leg.
[KP] Riddle leaping to the defense of Sami Zayn and KO!
Just battering Gunther!
[Corey] Riddle just destroyed that crutch.
Stunner!
[wild cheering]
[Corey] The Imperium appears to be in shambles at the moment.
That's gotta feel good for the momentum of the Tag Team Champions
who defend Friday night in London against Pretty Deadly.
And especially The Original Bro.
[KP] Riddle and his match to come against Gunter
for the Intercontinental Championship as well.
[Corey] It's almost as though gold is the theme of the week
as we approach Money in the Bank, KP, wouldn't you say?
It certainly is, indeed.
And speaking of, how about the impact of the NXT Champion?
He has already made and is set to make his Monday Night Raw debut tonight.
He is what he says he is, Corey.
The NXT Champion is Him.
[Carmelo] Carmelo Hayes, the generational talent.
If anyone can get it in the ring, on the mic, it don't matter.
♪ I'm never gonna up ♪
There's greatness and then there's Carmelo Hayes.
And when Carmelo Hayes shoots, I don't miss!
I'm a top talent.
You are the past and I am the present.
♪ You cannot keep me down ♪
[commentator] We got a new NXT Champion!
♪ I'm determined and I'm proud ♪
♪ It's my time, my moment ♪
[Carmelo] Now there's no question of who the man is.
I see a whole lot of them's, but there can only be one…
Him.
♪ You cannot keep me down ♪
["The Other Side"playing]
[Corey] Bad news for Melo, his opponent don't miss either.
[crowd booing]
And look at the man who in just five days
could become the new World Heavyweight Champion.
[bell dings]
[Irvin] The following contest is scheduled for one fall,
introducing first, representing the Judgment Day,
from Bray, County Wicklow, Ireland, weighing in at 190 pounds,
Finn Bálor!
[Corey] As of right now, Finn Bálor is scheduled to be our guest
this coming week on After the Bell,
a lot of questions to ask the challenger
ahead of what could be the biggest match of his career.
[KP] Saying earlier tonight, Corey, "The bitterness is all I have now."
Referring to the last seven years and what he felt should have been his,
instead, it's Seth "Freakin" Rollins'.
And tonight, just five days before that match
for the World Heavyweight Championship against Seth Rollins,
Finn Bálor will take on Carmelo Hayes, the NXT Champion
ready for his Monday Night Raw debut.
It's a match coming up next on Raw.
[whistle blows]
[chuckles]
Viking Raiders.
Do you think we're amateurs over here?
Do you think that I don't have Maxxine getting stronger?
You think I don't have Otis getting faster, huh?
You doubt my coaching abilities? Savages, idiots!
-Savages. Idiots. -Okay, okay, relax.
Listen, I may not have had a match yet,
however, every single time that little witch has come after me,
I have destroyed her,
all thanks to my wonderful coach, Ian,
and I am so ready for whatever she brings next.
Look at that confidence I've instilled in Maxxine. Huh?
We're here every week, Viking Raiders. We'll be here next week.
Why don't you ask your Viking gods if it's okay to come down
and maybe say some of those things
straight to Alpha Academy's face for once? And then…
I'll have Otis show you the plan. Otis…
what's the plan?
The plan, coach…
pure carnage.
[blows whistle]
[mouthing] Thank you.
[Corey] The Academy is ready.
I suggest we put a statue of Maxxine on Ellis Island.
I feel very patriotic all of a sudden.
[KP] Look at the "Prince" Finn Bálor.
Standing tall in the ring.
[Corey] Another member of the Judgment Day, last week,
the Women's World Champion Rhea Ripley.
[KP] Yeah, a savage attack on Natalya,
who was expecting a Night of Champions rematch.
It wasn't to be. The bell didn't even ring,
and Rhea Ripley, "The Eradicator", would destroy Natalya.
[Corey] The match never officially getting underway.
Take a step in the ring with me again, Nattie, huh?
You think it's real smart? You think that's a smart idea?
[KP] Riptide… on Natalya.
[referee] That's it, Ripley, come on. We gotta let her go.
Please welcome my guest at this time, Natalya.
Natalya, where are your emotions at following that brutal attack
from Women's World Champion Rhea Ripley last week?
I signed up for this life, and Rhea Ripley is a part of that
because she is at the top of the mountain right now.
But the biggest battle I've been facing is not out there,
it is up here.
The fear of me losing is not as great as the fear of me giving up,
which is the battle of my lifetime.
I have been broken…
I have been down…
I have been shaken, but I am still standing.
I am still here.
And I would like Rhea Ripley
to bring her championship next week and face me woman-to-woman
because there is not a single person here that can erase
or defeat what I've achieved in this company.
[Corey] Natalya, laying out the challenge for Rhea.
But choose your words carefully.
Everything seems to be coming up Judgment Day recently,
and that could continue Saturday.
[KP] Oh, Corey, this promises to be absolutely epic.
It's for the World Heavyweight Championship.
Seth "Freakin" Rollins, according to Finn Bálor, laughed in his face
the night after Bálor won the Universal Championship
and had to relinquish it as he was injured.
This is personal for Finn Bálor.
-But tonight, he must overcome Him. -["Melo Don't Miss" playing]
[Irvin] And his opponent,
from Boston, Massachusetts,
weighing in at 210 pounds,
he is the NXT Champion.
Carmelo Hayes!
[Corey] KP, you know I hold Carmelo Hayes in extremely high regard.
The NXT Champion, who will defend his title tomorrow night, right here on NXT,
against Baron Corbin.
That is, of course, assuming Melo makes it past a former NXT Champion
in his own right multiple times over, in Finn Bálor.
[KP] Carmelo saying earlier he wants to take care of the Finn Bálor problem
for Seth "Freakin" Rollins, and honored to be here.
And what an opportunity it is for the NXT Champion
on his Monday Night Raw debut!
What must he be feeling right now?
[Corey] Listen, Melo is no stranger to the big stage.
He's competed numerous times at NXT TakeOvers
and large atmospheres as such.
And that's what Carmelo Hayes has
that maybe other NXT Superstars are lacking.
And that's an overabundance of self-confidence.
In this game, you need it. Finn Bálor has it.
Melo may have more of it.
[KP] Carmelo Hayes eyeing up Finn Bálor.
He says the NXT Champion was the first Superstar.
[Corey] You can see it.
You can see it, momentarily, the pressure on the face of Carmelo Hayes.
He took a deep breath as he stared across the ring
at Finn Bálor, realizing, "You're in the deep water now, kid."
Knock it off. Get off that!
[KP] Finn Bálor also a former NXT Champion.
[crowd exclaiming]
[KP] Man, that was a loud shot.
Out of that corner, let's go! One!
[KP] Welcome to the big time, Melo.
Three! Listen to the count. Come on, Bálor.
[Corey] Finn Bálor, best NXT Champion ever.
A very, very high bar set by the Irishman.
Carmelo Hayes, of course,
with no intentions of relinquishing his title anytime soon.
[referee] No! No!
[Corey] But think about the risk Carmelo Hayes is taking tonight
by stepping up on behalf of Seth "Freakin" Rollins,
putting himself in peril 24 hours before a major championship defense.
-A questionable decision, I'd say. -[KP] Against a massive star,
and a decorated Superstar in Baron Corbin.
[Corey] This is Baron Corbin we're talking about,
a main event player here in WWE.
-[commentators exclaiming] -[KP] Oh! What a dropkick!
The athleticism on show from Melo.
[Corey] To avoid the kick attempt from Finn…
Melo answers with a kick of his own.
And check this out.
He calls that the Fadeaway.
[KP] Doesn't it look good?
Finn Bálor feeling the effects now.
Melo back for more!
[Corey] The NXT Champion is on a roll.
Can Bálor get back in this fight?
[crowd cheering]
I am Him!
[Corey] We cannot wait for Gold Rush tomorrow night here on USA.
How excited are you for Tiffy Time, KP?
[KP] 100% excited to see Melo back in action
if he's fit and able to do so.
Because Finn Bálor right now is having his way with the NXT Champion.
[Corey] Running knife edge chop.
Surgical precision by the Prince.
And this is exactly what could be awaiting Seth "Freakin" Rollins this Saturday.
But keep your eyes on Melo.
[KP] Well scouted by Bálor.
During the commercial break, this is what went down.
Finn Bálor in control.
[Corey] Driving his elbow down across the sternum of Hayes.
And Finn Bálor has just continued to rain down his bitterness on the NXT Champion.
But don't count Melo out just yet.
[KP] Well played, Melo. Another big right.
Melo now, rapid quick offense.
-Oh! -[Corey] Big clothesline!
[KP] Melo's motivated. Hunting for more from Finn Bálor.
-[Corey] Wow! -Oh, wow!
Cover!
NXT Champion going for the victory, and Finn Bálor around at two.
How impressive is Carmelo Hayes on his Raw debut?
[Corey] The confidence is paying off, as well as the outrageous athleticism.
Hayes barely connected.
It was effective enough, if you're gonna reach out full extension.
But Bálor is rocked.
Oh, no.
And Finn answers with an lariat of his own.
[KP] Incredibly timed…
taking Melo off his feet.
[Corey] Finn Bálor again, targeting the ribs of Carmelo Hayes,
much like Bálor did to Seth Rollins earlier tonight, and last week,
repeated stomps by the Prince.
Pretty sure Seth "Freakin" Rollins is watching on.
Let's see this again from Finn Bálor!
Oh, Slingblade!
[Corey] Hayes is down,
and this could potentially shatter the confidence of the NXT Champion.
If he comes up short tonight,
and heads into battle with Corbin tomorrow night,
it most likely will not bode well.
[KP] Oh, super kick!
Feeling the back, though, is Carmelo Hayes.
-Oh, my God! Cover. -[Corey] Are you kidding me?
Carmelo Hayes now, for the win, Bálor.
[KP] Just about out at two.
[Corey] At this point in the match,
I'm starting to disagree with the legendary Chuck D.
I'm starting to believe the hype.
[KP] We are believers. Look at this again.
[Corey] Carmelo Hayes in reverse, in the air,
DDT and Bálor now on the ropes.
Figuratively.
-Melo, literally. -[KP] Melo is on the top ropes, indeed.
Out of harm's way, Bálor quickly across.
Carmelo now, shoulders are down, can he get the win? Bálor out at two.
Hoisting up Carmelo Hayes.
[Corey] Gut buster by Finn.
[KP] Carmelo in agony, feeling the effects.
And Bálor has his eyes on the prize.
Missile dropkick into the corner.
Finn now ascending the ropes. This could be it.
Coup de Grace!
[KP] Just like he did to Rollins three times last week,
-and this one put Hayes away. -[bell dings]
[Irvin] He is your winner.
Finn Bálor!
[Corey] Hats off and all the respect in the world
to Carmelo Hayes, who put up a hell of a fight.
A true champions effort tonight.
But Finn Bálor is just operating on a whole different level right now.
Bálor is ready for war this Saturday.
[KP] Peaking at the right time. Coup de Grace…
to the ribs of Carmelo Hayes.
[Corey] And right now, Baron Corbin has got to be smiling
like a butcher's dog licking his chops,
knowing that Melo is ripe for the picking tomorrow night at Gold Rush.
[KP] You could say the same about Rollins.
This is the Finn Bálor that Seth "Freakin" Rollins says he wants,
and he's gonna get him.
The Prince, Saturday, 3:00 p.m. Eastern,
and it's for the World Heavyweight Championship
at Money in the Bank.
I am standing by hoping to get in a word with Cody Rhodes.
Cody, seems like you've got your hands full, but do you have a minute?
[crowd cheering]
Well, Cody, tonight you have a match against Damian Priest.
Can I get your comment on either him
or your Money in the Bank opponent Dominik Mysterio?
I love these chats, Cathy.
I do, but, gosh, I look forward to the day that we're not…
talking about Dominik Mysterio, we're not talking about Rhea Ripley.
Damian Priest, Finn Bálor, the Judgment Day.
Damian Priest is walking into Money in the Bank,
not just with bruises on his body,
but bruises on his ego.
And my opponent, Dominik Mysterio,
I almost wish I could sit out amongst the WWE Universe
and boo him myself because he has… he has gotten under my skin.
I mean, these cheap shots that he's lobbed at me,
they have worked, they have been effective.
That's a skill, it truly is.
But think about this.
At Money in the Bank…
Dom is not gonna have Finn Bálor,
Dom is not gonna have Rhea Ripley, Dom is not gonna have Damian Priest.
And I haven't laid a finger on "Dirty" Dom.
So I guess we'll find out what he does have.
Thank you very much. Come on.
[KP] We are just five days away from that match,
and this, a Bloodline Civil War.
And after the first shots were fired on Friday,
there's no turning back now. We revisit next.
[KP] Plan your Saturday afternoon around Money in the Bank,
and this, Jimmy and Jey Uso against Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa.
And after the explosive scenes of Friday,
it's full steam ahead for the Bloodline Civil War.
[Jay] Civil War in the Bloodline,
We got to fight our family, Us.
Roman Reigns, three years we was in the trenches with you.
But what you messed up at, Us,
you disrespected me and my brother.
You embarrass me.
This is my ring. Get out.
Once you started to show us we ain't worth nothing…
your ass is sat on the Island of Relevancy all along.
At Money in the Bank, it's locked in. Solo Sikoa, Roman Reigns,
Welcome to the Uso Penitentiary!
[Corey] Solo Sikoa is pissed off.
What are you looking at?
I'm not in the mood tonight.
[Sheamus] Solo… I saw what you did to Ridge.
You want to fight? Well, I'll give you a bleeding fight.
[Corey] Samoan Spike drives Sheamus out of the ring.
[Solo] This is what happens when you mess with the Bloodline.
[Corey] And the official is waving this match off.
Sheamus may be out cold
as the medical personnel have come out to ringside.
Sikoa Is out of control.
["Done With That" playing]
[Corey] It is the Bloodline Civil War.
[The Usos] Welcome to the Uso Penitentiary!
[KP] Can you imagine what Roman Reigns was feeling
watching the end to Friday Night SmackDown?
Will he get his revenge with Solo Sikoa
or will The Usos send Roman to the Uso Penitentiary?
[Corey] After tonight's events, the question remains,
can Seth "Freakin" Rollins overcome injured ribs to topple the challenge
presented by Finn Bálor of the Judgment Day?
[KP] Tonight, here on Monday Night Raw, we saw Becky Lynch climb the ladder,
smiling alongside the Money in the Bank briefcase.
Will it be "Big Time" Becks with the contract?
When it's all said and done this Saturday?
[Corey] And the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships are on the line
as new champions "Rowdy" Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler
defend against the team who never lost their titles,
Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan.
[KP] Tonight, it was Imperium in retreat as Riddle came to the rescue.
Will The Original Bro suffer the consequences of Gunther
with the Intercontinental Championship on the line?
[Corey] And then we've got the Men's Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
Seven Superstars, one briefcase.
The opportunity to change your life hangs in the balance.
Oh, and the Megastar Logan Paul joins the field.
[KP] I cannot wait for that one.
And Cody Rhodes said earlier that
Dominik Mysterio won't have Rhea Ripley and the Judgment Day by his side.
Cody relishing the opportunity to get in the ring at Money in the Bank
with Dominik Mysterio.
["Kingdom" playing]
[man] Wrestling has more than one royal family.
[Corey] Right now, Rhodes has his hands full
with another member of the Judgment Day.
♪ Adrenaline, in my soul Every thought, out of control ♪
♪ Do it all to get them off their feet ♪
♪ Crowd is here, about to blow ♪
♪ Waitin' for me to start the show ♪
♪ Out the curtain, lights go up I'm home ♪
[all] ♪ Whoa! ♪
♪ And my father said, when I was younger ♪
-[bell dings] -[Irvin] The following contest
is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, from Atlanta, Georgia, weighing in at 222 pounds,
the "American Nightmare"
Cody Rhodes!
[Corey] A little keepsake for that young fan
as the American Nightmare makes his entrance
to a packed and rabid WWE Universe.
[KP] All behind Cody Rhodes tonight.
And as much as the American Nightmare is chomping at the bit
to get his hands on Dominik Mysterio, he cannot overlook his opponent tonight.
Damian Priest.
[Corey] I agree with you completely.
I got more thoughts, but I'm just gonna let them all have their fun.
Go for it, y'all.
♪ Whoa! ♪
You better believe Damian Priest is gonna come out here tonight
to soften up the American Nightmare for "Dirty" Dom.
[KP] What a battle we've got coming up in the main event of Monday Night Raw,
five days removed from Money in the Bank.
Will it be Cody Rhodes standing tall?
It's Rhodes, Damian Priest, next on Raw.
Let's do this! Let's go! Let's go!
[Corey] Welcome back to Monday Night Raw.
You're looking at a fired up American Nightmare.
Cody Rhodes set for one-on-one action in the main event
against Dominik Mysterio's friend from the Judgment Day…
Damian Priest.
["Punishment" playing]
[explosion]
[Irvin] And his opponent, representing the Judgment Day
from New York City, weighing in at 249 pounds,
Damian Priest.
[KP] As much as we talk about the condition of Cody Rhodes
heading into Saturday at Money in the Bank,
let's not forget Damian Priest
is competing in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match
hoping to win that contract.
[Corey] Think about what the Judgment Day
could look like come next Monday when we arrive in Baltimore,
in Charm City, Damian Priest, could be Mr. Money in the Bank.
Finn Bálor could be the World Heavyweight Champion.
Rhea Ripley, already the Women's World Champion,
and "Dirty" Dom could have the biggest win of his career
if he knocks off Cody Rhodes.
[KP] Dom has won a premium live event, one-on-one match in his career,
and we know how that went.
Publicly spanked by his father, so,
what makes you think Dominik Mysterio can really to go up against Cody Rhodes?
[Corey] Let's be honest. Cody Rhodes needs to have a plan in mind
for the X factor of the Judgment Day, Rhea Ripley.
And I know Cody is a smart enough competitor
that he realizes, he assesses the entire situation.
But what Cody also fails to realize is that he is setting himself up.
to be injured very badly right now at the hands of Damian Priest.
[KP] Speaking of, look at Cody Rhodes' arm, still in a cast.
Arm broken by "The Beast" Brock Lesnar,
an open challenge to Lesnar that still exists, by the way,
as Rhodes continues to fight.
[crowd chanting] Let's go, Cody!
[Corey] Now, an elbow tie up by both Superstars,
Damian Priest into the side headlock,
a tentative pace being set here by Priest
-in the opening moments. -Oh, my!
We've talked about it before, Corey.
The momentum that Damian Priest has right now is something to behold.
-[crowd booing] -I completely agree with you.
Damian Priest realizes that the WWE Universe
is beginning to take notice of what he is truly capable of.
It's taken some time. It's taken some bumps and bruises,
but Damian Priest now is viewed
on a very, very high level by the majority of the fans.
They may not like his attitude, but you cannot argue
with the substance of the Superstar.
[KP] Without question.
Cody Rhodes, now flattened by Priest.
It's the confidence oozing from Damian Priest.
It is one of his strongest points right now.
Cody looking for a backslide, Priest able to reverse.
Cody landing on his feet, kick to the midsection, rocking Priest now.
[Corey] Oh!
Priest hit Cody so hard, I thought--
[KP exclaims]
[Corey] You made noise like you got hit.
[KP laughs] Priest so quick, not wasting any time.
What a favor he'd be doing Dominik Mysterio,
ahead of Money in the Bank on Saturday afternoon.
[Corey] Smart move by Rhodes,
trying to isolate a body part
hyperextended the elbow of Damian Priest,
and now Rhodes, looking to tee off in the corner.
[KP] The American Nightmare, channeling the energy of WWE Universe,
but hang on a second.
[Corey] Big right hand uncorked by Priest.
[KP] The Punishment within the Judgment Day.
[Corey] And again, another right.
And now a series of stomps from Damian Priest
has the Nightmare in trouble.
[KP] Dragging that broken left arm of Rhodes.
[Corey] Stage dive in the corner from Priest.
-Cody's hurt. -[crowd booing]
[KP] Priest standing confidently,
absorbing what the WWE Universe throw at him.
[Corey] Cody able to reverse the momentum.
Great display of power!
[KP] Wow, the blood rushing to the head of Damian Priest.
[Corey] Face first Gourdbuster by Rhodes.
And here comes Mommy and "Dirty" Dom.
[crowd booing]
Cody had to know this is coming.
Rhodes is a student of the game.
[KP] You saw the look in the eyes of Cody Rhodes.
Now it's potentially three-on-one With Dom and Rhea watching on.
[Corey] A momentary distraction was all it took.
-Oh, no! -Smart move from Cody.
[Corey] Priest hesitated just a moment too long.
-And here comes Rhodes. -Look out! Suicide dive!
-What? -Dom, back off!
What?
[crowd booing]
[KP] Classic.
Dominik Mysterio hiding behind Rhea Ripley!
[Corey] Flatliner, the momentum of this matchup
just shifted towards Damian Priest and the Judgment Day.
[referee] Hey, Rhodes, you good?
[KP] We're in the home state of Cody Rhodes tonight,
here in Savannah, Georgia.
One-on-one action as Rhodes takes on Damian Priest,
the Punishment within the Judgment Day.
[Corey] Priest hoisting up. Oh! Broken Arrow. That could do it.
[KP] Rhodes looks out,
Damian Priest with the cover for the win, and Cody kicking out.
-Ref! One, two, three! -[crowd chanting] Cody!
[KP] Before the commercial break, the arrival of "Mommy" Rhea Ripley
and Cody's opponent at Money in the Bank on Saturday afternoon, Dominik Mysterio.
Many believe, Corey, it's finally time for Dom to get a lesson.
Will it be Cody Rhodes that can deliver that?
[Corey] Who are these many you speak of? Allegedly.
[KP] It's been all Damian Priest
throughout the commercial break, and Priest dominating yet again.
-[Corey] Oh, my God! That might do it. -[Rhea laughing]
[KP] Cover once more from Priest over Cody Rhodes, and kicking out again.
[Corey] Take another look at this, as Damian Priest attacks Cody Rhodes
with a clothesline that turned the American Nightmare inside out.
[KP] You take a shot at one of us…
-[crowd chanting] Dom, you suck! -…you'll feel the wrath of all of us.
The message from the Judgment Day.
[chanting continues]
[Corey] An unusual sight is Priest making the climb to the top,
and Rhodes just chucked Priest off the top to the ground.
[KP] Look at the athleticism! Cat-like reflexes from Cody Rhodes.
[Corey] Impressive quickness from Rhodes,
-buying himself a few valuable moments. -[crowd chanting] Cody!
And the WWE Universe is alive and well again,
trying to rally the American Nightmare.
[KP] This sold out crowd all behind Cody…
with Cody feeling blows the Priest, returning them now,
Now, look at this from Cody.
-[crowd] Hey, hey, hey! -[crowd] Ooooh!
[Corey] Well, this makes me all warm and fuzzy inside.
Not Priest, though.
[KP] Cody Rhodes!
The American Nightmare now is rolling. He is feeling it.
[Corey] Snap power slam by Rhodes.
[Dom] Come on, Damien.
[Corey] Cody seems to have taken a bit out of himself, delivering it.
-Cody… -[both] Disaster Kick!
[Dom] Come on, Priest!
[KP] Priest is rocked. Is this the opportunity for Cody?
Just toying with Damian Priest now.
-[crowd] One! Two! -[KP] Cody… Kick out by Priest.
[Dom] Damien, come on!
[Corey] Both of these athletes taking a moment
to compose themselves out of absolute necessity.
This has been a grueling contest since the opening bell.
Neither man wanting to relent.
But now Cody with an opportunity to make something happen.
[KP] Kicked away by Priest.
Cody wasting no time, avoided by Priest.
-Uh-oh! -Oh, the headlock driver!
[KP] Cover. Damian Priest now to put away Cody, and he's still alive.
[Corey] And now all three members of the Judgment Day
sharing the same frustrated expression.
-[crowd chanting] -Dom, you suck! Dom, you suck!
[KP] You hear that, Corey?
[Corey] What are they saying, KP?
[KP] Dom, you suck!
[chanting continues]
-[Corey] I was being fatuitous. -I know.
Oh… here we go.
-Damian Priest looking to fight back. -Wow!
He's utilizing his long legs and karate skills.
Double under hook by Rhodes!
Pedigree!
[KP] Can Cody get on? Can he capitalize?
-Damian Priest rolling away. -[Corey] Wow!
Great decision by Damian Priest,
realizing he was overmatched at the moment,
he needed to create some separation between himself and Rhodes. But Cody…
-now perched on the very top turnbuckle. -Four!
A little cat and mouse here being played by Priest.
-[KP] Avoiding Damian Priest. -Oh, wow!
Wow! Damian Priest for the victory,
and Cody kicking out.
What a connection.
[Corey] Let's take a look at this. Right on the money from Damian Priest.
Nearly enough to topple Rhodes.
-But the American Nightmare fights on. -[crowd chanting] Cody! Cody!
-[KP] Damian Priest. -Oh, Lord!
[KP] Five days before he'll compete in the Money in the Bank Ladder Match.
Hoping to win the contract
for a championship match anytime, anyplace.
[Corey] And Rhodes answers with a super kick of his own.
And what's Mommy doing?
-[KP] Oh, come on. -The Women's World--
[KP] Dominik, now!
[Corey] Rhea had the official distracted and Dominik took advantage.
[KP] And this spells trouble.
[Corey] Ah! South of Heaven!
Priest to put away Cody Rhodes, who kicks out! Rhodes kicks out.
And now the entire Judgment Day beside themselves.
Look at this. Dominik taking advantage of the distraction from Rhea,
tied up Rhodes for the moment.
Open the door for Priest to deliver the South of Heaven chokeslam.
But at two and seven eighths…
Cody kicks out.
[KP] Talk about the fight in the American Nightmare.
-[Corey] And Dom yet again on the apron. -Oh, no.
[Corey] The official exercising a good deal of leniency.
-Priest wanted the Razor's Edge. -Cody out just in time.
-[KP] Oh! Well played by Cody Rhodes. -That backfired.
[Corey] Cody Cutter!
[Cody screaming]
[Corey] And the American Nightmare is feeling it.
Is it time?
Is it time? Cross Rhodes delivered.
Cody hooks the leg to end Damian Priest. That does it.
[bell dings]
[Irvin] Here is your winner,
the "American Nightmare"
Cody Rhodes!
[KP] With a broken arm
and against all the adversity he's facing in this match,
Cody Rhodes delivered.
[Corey] A rare miscommunication from the Judgment Day.
-Look at the distance on the Cody Cutter. -Boom!
[Cody screaming]
[Corey] That was the beginning of the end.
-Cross Rhodes for Damian Priest. -[crowd] One! Two! Three!
[Corey] And a momentum boosting win for Cody Rhodes.
[KP] And this Saturday,
nowhere to hide for Dominik Mysterio
at the sold out O2 Arena.
Money in the Bank is where it's at,
at a special start time of 3:00 p.m., Eastern.
Plan your day around it when Cody Rhodes
-will get his hands on Dominik. -[Corey] Watch out!
Dom again with a hit and run at Cody's expense.
[crowd booing]
-[crowd chanting] Dom, you suck! -[KP] Another cheap shot.
[Corey] If Cody has his way,
Dom may be in for a stint in the Tower of London.
[KP] This Saturday…
-Money in the Bank can't get here… -I'll see you…
-…quick enough for Cody Rhodes. -…at Money in the Bank.
[Corey] Be careful.
Cody's coming for you, Dom. And Hell's coming with him. nk.