[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.
["War Pigs" by Black Sabbath playing]
[announcer] The following is a Men's WarGames match.
[Michael] Two teams in separate cages.
Every three minutes,
alternating members of each team will enter the match
until competitors are in the ring.
Once all the competitors have entered, then the WarGames match officially begins.
Who's coming tonight?
You don't know?
Is he coming?
[Michael] It's five on four.
Judgment Day has the advantage.
Randy Orton is nowhere to be found.
Judgment Day having their way.
[upbeat music playing]
[Corey] Rhea Ripley with the Money in the Bank contract
and a referee in tow!
Priest is going to cash in!
["Voices" playing]
[crowd cheers]
-[bell rings] -[announcer] Let the WarGames begin!
[Michael] Vintage Randy Orton. Vintage WarGames!
And McDonagh trying to escape, heading up to the top of the cage.
RKO!
One… two… three!
[Michael] Orton and company win!
["Cult Of Personality" playing]
[crowd cheers]
[crowd chanting] CM Punk!
[upbeat music playing]
[crowd cheers]
[Michael] It may be one of the most anticipated episodes
of Monday Night Raw, ever.
You are looking live at jam-packed Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee,
where tonight we will witness the fallout
of a widely successful Survivor Series: WarGames.
Hello again everybody at ringside, Michael Cole and Wade Barrett, and Wade,
what a night!
Man, this place today is buzzing. This feels like it's a premium live event.
And not only that, the first hour of Raw
is completely commercial-free this evening.
It's the season of giving.
And I don't know how you feel, but I still have goosebumps.
I still hear the thunderous roar from this past Saturday night in Chicago,
when hell froze over.
After a decade away, CM Punk returned to WWE,
and a move that people said never would, never could happen.
The polarizing, controversial superstar will have a live microphone in his hands
as he returns to Monday Night Raw, live tonight.
["Voices" playing]
[crowd cheers]
[announcer] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
"The Apex Predator"
Randy Orton!
[Michael] Speaking of monumental returns,
after a year and a half out of action,
double fusion back surgery,
"The Apex Predator," "The Viper" returned at Survivor Series
this past Saturday night.
I appreciate it! I appreciate it.
And the 14 time World Champion…
-Brandon? -Brandon.
…is fired up to be back.
There you go, kid. Hey, hey…
[Wade] What a loss to the industry over the past 18 months.
This man was one of the biggest stars we have ever seen.
Completely irreplaceable.
And it looks, for now at least, like we've got happy Randy.
[Michael] Wade, you know Randy Orton much better than most of us.
You've been in the ring with the man.
[Wade] Yeah. believe me when I say this, this man has no compare.
There is nobody else on his level.
I couldn't even get close to matching him when I squared off with him.
One of the absolute best in the history of WWE.
And oh, yes, he's back.
[inaudible]
[crowd cheers]
A highly-emotional Randy Orton
kicking us off here tonight on Monday Night Raw.
[crowd chanting] Randy! Randy!
Well, well it seems…
Well, I should say it sounds like maybe a few of you missed me.
[crowd cheers]
Well, I'm back.
I'm back,
I'm back for as long as I can stay here.
Now, without any further ado, let me just cut right to it.
Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to Monday Night Raw.
I was gone a while. I was gone a while, wasn't I?
[crowd chanting] Welcome back!
Thank you, thank you, thank you. That whole time I was gone, guys.
It gave me… I love you too.
It gave me plenty of time to think about all my accomplishments,
all my accolades.
But you've heard all those before, and I don't want to bore you to death
because there's a lot of them, right?
Um, but my point is, I had never done one particular thing.
And that one particular thing that I had never done was compete at WarGames.
So when my dear friend "The American Nightmare," Cody Rhodes…
When he picked up the phone and he gave me a call,
of course I was in. Of course I was in.
But there was another reason why I wanted to be part of WarGames, you see.
And it is because WarGames was invented by Cody's father,
the late but great "American Dream," Dusty Rhodes.
And to be a part of that match, to be a part of that match
is to be a part of professional wrestling history.
And guys, that's what it's all about, making moments.
And two nights ago at Survivor Series, I got to make a moment.
And that's what it's all about.
But, but, but, I also came back
because I got a little bit of unfinished business to attend to,
and that unfinished business has to do with The Bloodline.
Now if anybody kind of gets where they were coming from, it's me.
I made a career out of putting guys on the shelf,
sometimes permanently, for over 20 years.
So maybe I can forgive, but I can't forget.
Point of the matter is,
I've got a bag full of receipts for The Bloodline,
every single member of The Bloodline.
And when I say every single member, I mean every single member.
Now, Nashville, I think you know what form
those receipts are going to come in, right?
Those receipts are going to come in the form
of the three most dangerous letters in the WWE.
No, no, no. The three most dangerous letters
in all of sports entertainment.
R… K… O…
[crowd chanting] RKO! RKO!
["Demon In Your Dreams" playing]
[Michael] Well, this is going to be interesting.
The Women's World Champion,
the person that many say is the actual leader of Judgment Day.
Rhea Ripley "The Eradicator,"
is heading to the ring with a viper inside.
[Wade] A successful Survivor Series for Rhea Ripley.
However, the rest of The Judgment Day,
not so much, thanks in part to that man, Randy Orton.
[Michael] Yeah, Ripley defending the championship
against Zoey Stark Saturday.
But the rest of The Judgment Day as wade mentioned,
losing inside the WarGames structure to Randy Orton and company.
Welcome back, Randy.
I mean, what a performance you had at Survivor Series.
I didn't really take you as someone who would do favors for others,
or team with someone who tried to end your career.
Or have your big return a year and a half in the making…
upstaged.
But hey, hey, I mean, don't get me wrong.
You look more dangerous than ever,
and it would be a shame to have all of that wasted,
because you don't seem to realize that the landscape here has changed.
The Bloodline, they have fallen.
And The Judgment Day,
we have risen as the most dominant force here within the WWE.
[crowd booing]
When it comes to WarGames,
that was just a bump in the road
because the reality is, Randy,
we're all dripping in gold.
I wipe the floor with Zoey Stark,
my Latino heat, my "Dirty" Dom,
he is your NXT North American Champion.
And when it comes to Finn and Damian,
they hold those Undisputed Tag Team Championships
that you nearly lost everything trying to get.
And if it wasn't for you, Randy,
Damian Priest would be your World Heavyweight Champion.
So you've come in here, Randy, and you've made all these enemies.
Enemies that could make your life a living nightmare.
So you need to stop focusing on The Bloodline,
because unlike The Bloodline,
we get the job done and we will put you out permanently.
[crowd chanting] RKO! RKO!
I stated how I kept in touch when I watched the product
as I was out for a year and a half,
and every week it's Rhea, Rhea this, Rhea that, Mami this, Mami that,
Mami this, Mami that.
Well guess what, Rhea, Daddy's back.
[crowd cheers]
[crowd chanting] Randy Daddy!
She says a lot of things have changed.
It's true. A lot of things have changed since I've been out.
[crowd chanting] Who's her daddy?
Seriously, seriously, you're right.
A lot of things have changed, Rhea, since I've been gone.
But the one thing that hasn't changed, the one thing that will never, ever,
ever, ever, ever change as long as I am here,
is that nobody tells Randy Orton what to do.
[laughs]
I see that you've made your bed, then.
I mean, I tried to warn you, Randy.
I tried to give you an out, but you have made us your enemy now.
[Michael] Oh! From behind! That's JD McDonagh and "Dirty" Dom.
The trap was laid by Rhea, and Dominik and JD McDonagh assaulting Orton.
[Wade] There's always a plan. There's always a methodology.
[Michael] Randy Orton, though, fighting out of this.
And McDonagh driven into the post.
He wears that neck brace after the RKO inside WarGames Saturday.
And again from behind.
RKO out of nowhere!
-[crowd cheers] -JD!
Don't you go too far, Dom.
Don't you leave this damn arena.
Because as soon as I leave this ring, I'm going to find Adam Pearce.
And I'm going to make damn sure that I get you in this ring one-on-one tonight.
[Michael] Hey, Rhea, the landscape may have changed,
but "The Viper" is still "The Viper."
Daddy's home.
And if Adam Pearce does the right thing,
we could see Randy Orton in action on Monday Night Raw
for the first time in a year and a half, later on tonight.
[Wade] Adam Pearce is no fool.
Pearce, give Nashville what they want. Give planet earth what they want.
Sign the match!
Randy Orton hoping to be in action later tonight.
We have a Tag Team Turmoil match coming up in just a few moments.
Some of these teams got together a bit earlier today to talk all about it.
Because tonight is the night Master Gable unleashes upon the world
for the first time the tag team of Otis and Tozawa.
-Are you guys ready? -Oh, yeah.
It's their first time back.
-[crosstalk] -Guys, guys, guys.
I don't want to put any more pressure on you.
But we have a very special guest who's gonna watch you all compete tonight.
-Ooh! -You guys know him,
-he sings "Save Me" with Lainey Wilson. -Ooh!
And he's also a CMA award-winning, Grammy-nominated,
multi-platinum recording artist.
-Please welcome… -[both] Jelly Roll!
[cheers]
-My guy. -Yeah.
I'm so excited to be here tonight to get to see y'all.
And I get to do it in my hometown of Nashville, Tennessee.
Jelly Roll, Jelly Roll.
What's up? Where it at?
-Where what at? -The jelly roll?
-No, no, no, -My sweet tooth got a sweet tooth.
The jelly rolls, dawg.
-They said it was platinum! -I am jelly roll.
You got them all?
You gotta have one left, right? You can't have them all.
They platinum. They're award-winning. Mwah!
I would love to stay here and chop it up with you,
but I gotta go to catering before they all get gone.
But I'm trying to--
Tozawa hit him with the jelly roll.
Hit it.
[wrestlers exclaim]
Tozawa!
-That's… -[all] Nasty!
[crosstalk]
[Michael] Anyhow, all's right in the world. R-Truth is back.
Ladies and gentlemen, coming up next,
who's next in line for an opportunity at the Undisputed Tag Team Titles?
It is a Number One Contenders Tag Team Turmoil match.
Now two teams will start. If you win, you move on.
If you lose, you head back to the locker room.
Last team standing becomes the Number One Contenders.
We'll be back with this match in 30 seconds here on Raw.
It's "The American Nightmare" Cody Rhodes.
Cyber Monday is here, and wweshop.com literally has hundreds of deals for you,
including something like this awesome Nightmare glassware over here,
this wonderful championship title, the winged eagle.
People love it, I love it.
This authentic American Nightmare weight belt.
There's a color coming to wweshop.com.
It's not even out here on this table. You've got action figures.
You've got this wonderful just piece of man,
this buff Bleacher Buddy right here.
Again, deals, deals, deals, deals.
But hurry up because Cyber Monday deals end tonight.
["War Pigs" by Black Sabbath playing]
[Michael] The 37th annual Survivor Series, sold out in Chicago,
was the most watched Survivor Series of all time,
as WWE continues its hot streak.
Gunther, still the longest-reigning Intercontinental Champion,
now at 535 days.
The women put on a show, kicking off the night in WarGames
and Team Bianca with an impressive win.
And how about the return of The Viper?
Randy Orton for the first time in a year and a half at Survivor Series,
and joining us here at ringside,
the CMA award-winning, Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum
recording artist Jelly Roll, from right here in Nashville.
He's grammy nominated for his song "Save Me" with Lainey Wilson.
You might remember, Wade. He was featured on "Summer Nights,"
which was the theme song for SummerSlam a couple of years ago.
Welcome to Jelly Roll.
["Shoooosh" playing]
You need a nickname like that.
[Wade] I'm hungry now.
Go join Truth.
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following is an undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship
Number One Contenders Tag Team Turmoil match!
Introducing first, accompanied by Maxxine Dupri and Chad Gable,
representing Alpha Academy,
the team of Akira Tozawa and Otis!
[Michael] You know, Wade, this is interesting.
Uh, Chad Gable changing things up for his team.
It's going to be Tozawa and Otis teaming together tonight.
[Wade] We'll get into that in a second.
But here are their first opponents in this one.
["It's Our Moment" playing]
[announcer] Next, Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa,
DIY!
[Michael] Of course former champions at NXT, Tag Champs as well.
Back together again here in WWE and we talk about this every week, Wade.
But the DIY moniker really shows you what these two men are all about.
Yeah, absolutely. They've had to come up to the top the hard way.
They've scratched and clawed for everything,
and it really is apropos that they have drawn
this awful position in this matchup,
where essentially they're going to have to run the entire field,
beat everybody who's entering this matchup to become the Number One Contenders.
That is the summary in a nutshell of the careers of DIY.
They'll have to do the same tonight.
-[bell rings] -[Michael] Tag Team Turmoil
is sudden death, so to speak. You got to win to move on.
And Tozawa now starting things off with Tomasso Ciampa.
Tell me about this team of Tozawa and Otis.
Are you surprised Chad Gable put them together
for the first time ever for this match?
[Wade] Well, it's almost a changing of the guard
in the tag ranks for The Alpha Academy.
Gable, ever since his recent matches with Gunther,
he's kind of been distracted.
He admits that he's kind of looking at the Singles Division,
wants to move there, doesn't think he's been fully focused on the tag ranks,
and he thinks that Tozawa is ready to step up.
[Michael] And Tozawa, he's entertaining,
but he's a hell of a competitor in the ring.
Oh, and a right hand caught Ciampa on the jaw.
Now, enjoying whatever you wanna call that, twerking, I guess.
[Wade] That's definitely not twerking.
-[Michael] I don't know. -[Wade] Don't encourage him.
I never want to see Tozawa twerking.
[Michael] I heard there's a video of me dancing from this past Saturday night.
I can't wait to check that out.
Meanwhile, Gargano and Ciampa now double team on Tozawa,
and Ciampa with a clothesline,
and now Johnny Gargano is the legal man and now doing some dance moves of his own.
-We are in Music City. -[Wade] That is enough, Johnny Gargano.
Focus on what you do best.
That is beating people up, not dancing.
[Michael] Hey, what about what Chad Gable did with Noam Dar this past week on NXT
in the Heritage Cup? They actually wrestled to a draw.
Oh.
-Gargano… -[Wade] Highly-prestigious Heritage Cup
might want another bite of the cherry of that one at some point,
but it looks like it's time for the big man.
[Michael] Tag made. Here comes Otis.
Gargano is involved in a big match at NXT tomorrow night.
Talk about that in a moment,
as Otis now showing some agility for a big man.
And then the double shoulder tackle.
Big brother of the group has really taken Tozawa under his wing.
[Michael] Ciampa whipped across the-- Oh!
And a back elbow now by Otis.
Mentioned Gargano, he's in a Fatal Four-Way match tomorrow night
with Cameron Grimes,
Bronson Reed and Wes Lee on NXT.
Wes lee must win that match to get an opportunity to face Dominik
for the North American Championship at Deadline in a couple of weeks.
[Wade] Appointment viewing NXT on a Tuesday night.
Oh, this is getting nastier and nastier by the second, Cole.
[Michael] Let me do it for you.
Skipper and Gilligan.
[Wade] I've no idea about that reference, but…
[Michael] Only people over 50 would, Wade.
There's the double caterpillar, followed by the double elbow by Alpha Academy,
who's rolling right now.
[Wade] Yeah, this has all gone downhill In a hurry for DIY,
after a really nice start.
And this could be the pièce de résistance.
[Michael] Oh, goodness!
[Wade] Knee to the jaw of Tozawa.
[Michael] And now Otis, sent over the top rope.
[Wade] DIY looking like a well-oiled machine.
Tozawa does not want to be there for meet in the middle.
-Cover by Gargano! -One… two… three!
DIY advances.
[announcer] Alpha Academy has been eliminated.
["Tiranga" playing]
[Michael] And now Indus Sher will get an opportunity
in this Tag Team Turmoil match
led by former champion, WWE Champion Jinder Mahal.
They've been lobbying Adam Pearce over the last few weeks
about getting an opportunity here on Monday Night Raw.
Tell me about these two massive men.
[Wade] What a gargantuan duo.
This is the last thing you want to see walking down
after you've already had one testing matchup,
and immediately on top of the big lads of Indus Sher.
[Michael] And the power of both Sanga and Veer…
driving Ciampa into the ring post.
[Wade] Just sheer power, a pair of goliaths stepping in the ring.
Gargano absolutely defenseless now.
[Michael] Just all-out brutality.
[Wade] Now Jinder Mahal has been asking for months now,
he's been in negotiations with Adam Pearce about getting opportunities for these two.
Finally, the first opportunity has arrived.
[Michael] Oh, and Veer flying through the air.
6' 4", 275 pounds.
Tag made and this man is even bigger, Sanga.
6'5", 300.
[Wade] Both have the raw tools that you can ask for,
and they have a former World Champion in Jinder Mahal directing them.
You question how can these two fail?
[Michael] Tag made yet again.
Indus Sher looking to advance in Tag Team Turmoil,
DIY just trying to survive.
Again, here's a double team.
[Wade] Just pin that man!
[Michael] Sanga on the left. Veer on the right.
Very calculating, punishing, dominant attacks.
[Wade] I don't think Gargano has managed to get a single shot in against these two.
Yeah, trying to use his quickness, though, steps out of harm's way.
Gargano now trying to roll him up. Shoulders are down.
-One… two… three! -Gargano stole one!
[announcer] Indus Sher has been eliminated!
["All Rise" playing]
[Wade] Well, that was not how the return of Indus Sher was supposed to go.
DIY progressed.
[Michael] So $DIY still in Tag Team Turmoil
and up next, former NXT Tag Champs, The Creed Brothers,
who actually knocked off DIY a number of weeks ago, Wade.
[Wade] Yes they did.
They're currently undefeated since arriving on Raw.
They have a little history in this kind of matchup.
They once about 18 months ago competed in a Tag Gauntlet in NXT.
They ran the entire field,
ultimately losing right at the end to Pretty Deadly.
[Michael] So you're telling me they've got a great chance to win this tonight.
[Wade] Well, once again, they've had the difficulty
of getting this fairly early draw in this matchup.
They're going to have to go a long way to win it.
[Michael] The double team by The Creed Brothers.
Breaking news. Look at the lower right hand half of your screen.
The match has been made official. In our main event tonight,
Randy Orton returns to the ring on Monday Night Raw
for the first time in a year and a half
to take on "Dirty" Dominik Mysterio, live tonight.
It is official from our General Manager, Adam Pearce.
[Wade] Nice job, Adam Pearce.
I would not want to be Dominik Mysterio right about now.
[Michael] And now The Creed Brothers, this is Julius Creed.
An all-time great collegiate and amateur wrestler.
And he's really turned into something here on Monday Night Raw.
[Wade] Yes, indeed, incredible collegiate athlete.
Told me he's packed on about 15 pounds since moving to WWE.
Used to have to compete with weight limits,
but he's getting bigger and stronger and faster before our eyes.
[Michael] DIY just trying to survive
after knocking off Alpha Academy and Indus Sher,
and here comes Brutus Creed.
[Wade] Johnny Gargano knew he had to beat Brutus to the punch.
You give Brutus a head of steam, it's not going to go well,
but Johnny Gargano using all of his experience.
But he's hurting bad already.
[Michael] Gargano into the corner and Brutus will send him out to the apron.
Kick by Gargano to Julius,
and then launching himself through the middle rope with that spear,
and a kick out…
by Brutus.
Ladies and gentlemen, if you're just tuning in tonight,
we talked about it at the top of the show.
One of the most anticipated Monday Night Raw's in history.
We mentioned Randy Orton in the main event against Dominik.
Plus, CM Punk returns live to Monday Night Raw tonight
for the first time in almost a decade.
They said it couldn't happen.
The polarizing, controversial Punk is back in WWE.
Cover by Ciampa, hook of the leg, and breaking things up is Julius Creed.
[Wade] That was almost victory right there.
Julius Creed had to be on his toes
because Brutus just hasn't got out of the block since tagging in.
[Michael] Ciampa trying to fight back as well.
[Wade] Leveraging all their veteran wiles are DIY,
but finally, Brutus taking control.
[Michael] Brutus built a bowling ball, at five eleven, 282.
Julius Creed now, working the double team, Creed off the ropes.
Look at that, Ciampa goes face first.
Cover by Julius to win this match-up.
Gargano's got to break things up.
[Wade] Yeah, desperate times here for DIY, that was a clock cleaning move.
Every time you see the Creeds, they pull something new out of the bag.
Right now, Gargano having to dig deep just to keep his team alive.
[Michael] And Ciampa, Julius, the legal men in the ring
as tag team turmoil continues.
Winner of this match advances.
[crowd chanting]
Now Ciampa looking to roll up Creed,
win his second match here tonight.
Julius able to kick-out.
-[Wade] I will say-- Oh! -[Michael] Tag. Gargano legal.
Ciampa with a kick to the face.
And now Gargano and Ciampa.
[crowd cheering]
Have Julius Creed where they want him.
Oh, Brutus intercepting.
[Wade] Just in the nick of time from Brutus Creed.
[Michael] And Julius.
Look at the power.
On his shoulders.
Tag made.
Brutus is legal.
[Wade] There are superhuman athletes before our eyes.
[Michael] The Brutus Ball.
Cover on Gargano.
The Creed Brothers advance.
[announcer] DIY has been eliminated.
♪ It's a new day, yes it is! ♪
[Michael] It's gonna be a tough test for these young men.
The 11 time tag team champions.
Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods.
[Wade] Just nowhere to hide in a match like this.
[Michael] It's a team that's won tag team turmoil and gauntlet matches before.
[Wade] Yeah, many people shout for the greatest tag team of all time.
Although the gentlemen formerly teaming as The Usos would argue with that.
[Michael] But again, Wade, if you're if you're the Creed Brothers.
You're looking to make a name for yourself in this industry.
You can knock off a team like The New Day.
What does that do for your career?
[Wade] Well, it's absolutely massive, and I'll say this.
I think the New Day made a big mistake.
Casually strolling down the ring, playing that trombone,
taking all the time in the world.
You need to pounce on the Creeds
while they're still breathing heavily After that previous match-up.
[Michael] Exactly, giving the Creeds chance to catch breath.
This is Xavier Woods starting things off against Julius Creed.
Kofi makes the tag.
And here comes the former WWE champion.
[Wade] They're sure a couple of cardio machines.
But right now they're completely rocked, and they have no answer.
[Michael] Hook of the leg and a kick out.
All the buzz in WWE since Saturday
in Survivor Series has taken social media by storm.
Again, trending number one in the United States here tonight.
With so much coming up, including Randy Orton in action.
The return of CM Punk.
World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins is here.
So is the American Nightmare Cody Rhodes.
Oh!
[Wade] It's not just social media.
It is all forms of media in the entertainment world.
[Michael] Cover and a kick-out.
[Wade] World is ablaze
after Survivor Series and all the fallout from it we're getting tonight.
[Michael] Tag by Xavier Woods.
Double team coming from The New Day.
A sliding clothesline.
Kofi Kingston launching himself.
And Xavier Woods from the second rope delivers the elbow.
Is it enough to put Julius Creed away?
Hook of the leg. Kick-out by Creed.
[Wade] I spoke to Fit Finlay, one of the top coaches in NXT about the Creeds.
Said it's two of the toughest competitors he has ever coached or trained.
And he's absolutely right looking at that volley of abuse
that Julius Creed just absorbed and kicked out.
[Michael] Back by Kofi.
The Creed Brothers are hungry.
They want to be here, they want to be champions.
[Wade] They have to do it the hard way
if they're going to win this tag team match.
[Michael] Kofi Kingston cover.
To win the match, and move on in turmoil--
And a kick-out.
[Wade] A spine-cracking splash to the lower back of Julius.
The spine simply isn't supposed to bend in that direction.
[Michael] Now Kofi trying to control the bigger Julius Creed.
Ground him, and they've done a nice job of that so far.
[Wade] Creed like to boast of their unmatched physicality
once they're in the ring,
but it's been all New Day since they arrived on the scene.
[Michael] I mean Nile, the diamond mine at ringside as well, looking on.
[Wade] What a smart veteran move there from Kofi.
[Michael] Kingston now rolling up.
Julius Creed for the win. Kick-out, near fall.
And Creed now trying to power Kofi up.
And if he can do this, this is just flat out brute strength.
Think about this.
And then a slam to Kingston.
[Wade] After the beating he'd already taken.
Julius, hats off to that man.
A glimpse into his superhuman athletic abilities,
but really needs this tap.
[Michael] Laying on the mat
for the grown man in his arms, able to make it back
to a vertical base and deliver the slam.
And now Brutus Creed.
And Xavier Woods, using his quickness, big right hand.
[Wade] Bruce has had a nice time to recover on the side, and it shows.
[Michael] A nice suplex by Creed.
Brutus Creed, a…
two time NCAA All American.
Unbeaten in his final year.
In college, he was ranked number one in the country.
[Wade] The smashing machine of the group.
Raw power, explosive energy.
[Michael] There's that power you're talking about,
while standing on the second rope,
to deliver that suplex to Woods.
Cover, hook of the leg.
For the win, kick-out by Xavier.
[Wade] These Creeds are just so well rounded,
managed to get themselves back with the upper hand in this one.
But need to put it to bed as soon as possible.
The longer this goes on, the more favors The New Day.
[crowd chanting]
[Michael] The late great Gorilla Monsoon will call it country boy strength.
And Brutus, now, with a standing moonsault.
Julius Creed.
The standing shooting star, and a kick-out by Woods.
And tell me how difficult that is for two men that size to do.
[Wade] Yeah, it's tough enough for a cruiserweight
to pull something like that.
But two guys the size of the Creeds, 240 pounds plus.
Brutus a lot heavier than that.
Having that that kind of ability, that kind of body control,
especially this deep into a match-up, is just ludicrous.
[Michael] Double teamed yet again by the Creeds.
Xavier Woods, able to turn it around, nice DDT delivered.
As he knocked Julius out of the ring.
Cover now by Woods.
And a kick-out.
We've remarked on this before, as the Creed Brothers come to Monday Night Raw.
Tremendous physical conditioning and stamina.
For both Julius and his brother Brutus.
[Wade] That's their amateur credentials,
they need all of that training and experience right now
to weather this storm from The New Day and try desperately to progress.
[Michael] Kofi Kingston, top rope.
Xavier Woods now, looking to put him away.
Nice backbreaker, Kofi Kingston.
[crowd cheering]
This one may be over.
Hook of the leg.
And Julius Creed saves the matchup.
[Wade] The assistance from the Creeds.
Look at the height of Kofi Kingston here.
Bull's eye right on the chest of Julius.
Still not enough to put the big man away.
[Michael] And now Kofi Kingston dumping Julius out of the ring
after Julius dumped Xavier Woods and now Kofi Kingston
may have Brutus where he wants him.
Brutus just not quite sure where he's at.
[crowd chanting]
Went for trouble in paradise.
Brutus made the tag as he ducked underneath.
And now Julius Creed is legal.
Kofi Kingston, Nice takedown.
Picking the ankle, and Kofi gonna head up the top rope.
[Wade] Just send him reeling,
and there's no way Julius has fully recovered.
[Michael] Cross body, but Julius rolled through it again.
Powers Kingston up.
And takes out Woods.
And a fallaway slam.
And Brutus off the apron with the moonsault.
[Wade] Creeds are hurting bad but they're digging deep.
And this is the opportunity they've been building to.
[Michael] Brutus, top rope. Kofi in trouble.
Brutus ball again.
Cover.
[all] One, two, three.
Creeds advance.
[announcer] The New Day has been eliminated.
[Wade] Oh, God.
["Symphony No. 9 In E Minor" playing]
[Michael] And now the final team to enter tag-team turmoil.
The winner of this upcoming fall
will become the number one contenders for the undisputed tag-team titles.
Things do not get easy for the Creed Brothers,
because here comes Imperium.
[Wade] Yeah, if you've already run the gauntlet this far,
the last thing you want coming down is these two athletic phenoms.
[Michael] And to your point earlier,
what The New Day didn't do is what Imperium is doing.
Quickly attacking the Creed Brothers.
[Wade] Smart strategy from Imperium.
Do not waste a second.
Target one of these men who are already down to, what, 10% energy now.
They are ripe for the pickings.
[yells]
[Michael] Now, Kaiser and Vinci have had some issues as of late.
Need to get on the same page tonight.
[Wade] Yeah, they're playing the favorite son syndrome with Gunther.
One minute Gunther prefers Vinci, the next it's Kaiser.
I think Vinci is the one currently in the good books.
[Michael] And I think he's the one that's supposed to be in charge of Kaiser, right?
Kaiser.
[thuds]
[crowd murmuring]
just whipping Brutus into our announce table
and moved this table about three feet.
[Wade] Right into my ribs, unfortunately.
[Michael] And now meanwhile, Julius Creed has been isolated by Kaiser and Vinci.
[thuds]
And this is deadly.
When the Imperium have the upper hand like this,
they are just a machine.
[Wade] Well, they're just swarming Julius Creed now.
Julius Creed not even close to offering anything
remotely resembling resistance.
But don't speak too soon.
[Michael] Yeah, Julius trying to fight back in this against Kaiser and Vinci.
But the numbers just overwhelming him.
Oh, a spinebuster and a kick by Kaiser.
[Wade] That was just a vicious pump to the solar plexus
of a man already beaten down.
Barely able to breathe.
[Michael] The leader of Imperium, Gunther,
celebrating his 535th day as Intercontinental champion.
Successful over The Miz in a great match on Saturday night.
And now Kaiser, with that big elbow.
-[Wade] Good night. -[Michael] Cover.
To win tag team turmoil.
And Brutus recovers in time.
[Wade] Well, I mean that move from Imperium has put away all comers.
Brutus had to somehow regenerate quickly.
[Michael] If you're just tuning in, this is Monday Night Raw.
We are live tonight jam packed in Nashville, Tennessee.
This is our final match in tag-team turmoil.
Either the Imperium or the Creed Brothers
will become the number one contenders
for Judgment Day's undisputed tag-team titles.
[Wade] Saw more dissension there.
From Imperium, yelling at one another.
Must feel like they just had victory snatched away from them
thanks to Brutus Creed's timely intervention.
[Michael] But now is the time to stay focused
as Kaiser has kicked out of the ring.
[Wade] Now is the time to stay in the ring and get on Julius Creed
before he makes a tag.
[Michael] Vinci back in the ring, misses, tag made, here comes Brutus.
Tag to Kaiser.
Brutus and Kaiser are now legal.
[Wade] Brutus is hardly a fresh man, but he's certainly
fresher than Julius at this point.
[Michael] I don't know how he's still standing after he was…
thrown into our announce table with the force that he was.
[Wade] Oh, ho, Brutus smash.
[Michael] And Vinci suffering all the effects of it.
These Creed Brothers are really a joy to watch.
[Wade] All forms of technique have gone out of the window
for Brutus Creed, just muscle him up.
[Michael] Brutus now, power-- Kaiser, to the back of the knee.
Great move, great instinct by Ludwig Kaiser.
[referee] Two, three.
[Michael] Kaiser just infuriated after…
With himself, or what?
[Wade] Yeah, this was just as he looked get back on top.
That blast from behind perfectly executed from Ludwig Kaiser.
Swaying this match back in the direction of Imperium.
[yells]
[Michael] Imperium. As nasty as they come.
[Wade] Elegance combined with savagery,
[Michael] Perfect way to describe this tag team.
[Wade] So many gears that--
[Michael] Cover off the backbreaker.
Forearm right in the mouth of Brutus. And a kick-out at two.
[Wade] You just sense that Imperium starting to get a little frustrated.
They feel they should be home and dry against the tag team
that has already been softened up with several matches prior to this one.
[Wade] Yeah, but the Creed Brothers, showing a lot of guts here tonight.
WWE fans all over Kaiser and the Imperium,
[crowd cheering]
Still in the midst of a commercial free
first hour here tonight on Monday Night Raw.
Both men are down.
Again, still to come, Randy Orton in action on Monday Night Raw
for the first time in a year and a half
against Dominik Mysterio
And the return of the polarizing,
controversial CM Punk tonight.
Tag to Kaiser, tag to Julius Creed.
And here comes Julius, nice belly to belly throw by Creed.
And one to Vinci as well.
[Wade] There's that conditioning we talked about.
[Michael] Six three, 240 pounds.
With a kip-up for good measure.
Just slinging the Imperium members around the ring.
[Wade] Superhuman levels of rejuvenation.
[Michael] Wow!
[crowd cheering]
That brought the WWE fans out of their seats here in Nashville.
[Wade] All of a sudden, looking fresh as a daisy pulling off--
[Michael] Meanwhile, cover, cover by Julius
Cover now, and staving things off is Vinci.
That was incredible.
[Wade] Yeah, that is one word to describe Julius Creed.
[Michael] Vinci hit hard.
Kaiser from behind, looking to steal one here.
I think he has the tights.
Still able to kick out, is Julius.
[Wade] A little tight there, Julius Creed, refusing to be denied.
[Michael] Smacked right across the face, and Kaiser showing some power of his own.
Creed from behind, gut wrench.
Powering Kaiser.
Oh!
Into a power bomb.
[Wade] Most competitors on the roster could not do what Julius Krieg just did
if they were fresh as a daisy.
Julius Creed has been put through the wringer
and he's still blowing minds. And look at this.
[Michael] And Brutus is legal.
Kaiser on Julius's shoulders.
Trying to rake the eyes here.
Meanwhile, Vinci took advantage.
And that may have been the Creed Brothers' best chance in this match.
[Wade] Dig deep and fight dirty when a chance at gold is on the line.
Imperium will not let this slip through their fingers.
[Michael] Now the double team.
Julius, though, back in things.
Oh, my goodness.
But still, how did he regain his balance and able to do this?
[crowd cheering]
Another superplex.
How the hell did he slip off the man's back,
almost fall down, and still leap to the top rope?
[Wade] In the blink of an eye recovered from the initial slip
and still pulled off that massive superplex.
What the hell did they make these Creeds out of?
[crowd chanting]
[Michael] These two young men, incredible athletes.
Incredible conditioning.
Vinci now up on the shoulders of Julius.
Here's Brutus Creed, top rope.
Could this be the moment?
Brutus ball again!
[crowd cheering]
And now into the cover.
And a hook of the leg and the Creed Brothers win.
[announcer] Here are your winners.
The Creed Brothers!
[Michael] The Creed Brothers have become the number one contenders
for the undisputed tag team titles.
[Wade] And it's the absolute least they deserve
after such a protracted effort in this match.
Here's where it all began to turn around for the Creeds at the last minute.
This superhuman effort from Julian Creed.
Setting up this.
Connecting perfectly. Boom.
Nasty landing for Vinci.
And as we saw throughout this tag team turmoil match,
that move connects, its over.
-["All Rise" playing] -I love you, brother!
[Michael] The Creeds, the number one contenders for the tag team titles.
[crowd cheering]
He is extremely dangerous, really need to be careful.
Because he can strike absolutely anywhere. Look over your shoulder--
Hey, boys, hey, I just got back from watching those Creed Brothers.
Those guys are the real deal. Damian we can't take those fellas lightly.
Damian, you hear me, big man?
Yeah, I hear you.
I can also see the look on your faces.
Go ahead, say what you're gonna say.
You appointed me the leader of WarGames, right?
And I let everybody down.
I lost the match. I embarrassed us.
So go ahead.
Get it off your chest you want to say something.
-I don't want to say nothing, relax. -You wanna say something.
-Priest, look… -I know you guys want to say something.
The Judgment Day, we're a family.
We all rise together and we all fall together.
Isn't that right, boys?
That's right, Rhea.
Hey, it's one loss.
No sweat, we're still the undisputed tie team champions.
Relax.
It's all good.
Is that real?
-That's real, a hundred percent. -Yes. Look…
Just because you made yourself the leader at WarGames and it didn't go in our favor,
it doesn't mean that any of us are going to hold a grudge against you, okay?
You need to relax.
All right.
That's what families do, right?
Appreciate it.
Well, on the subject of family.
How's JD?
He's still getting checked out by medical.
It's probably gonna take a while.
So, Damian, maybe me and you, we should go check on him.
-Yeah, makes sense -Let's go.
-See you guys later. -Appreciate it.
[upbeat music playing]
[Michael] Damian Priest a bit paranoid,
and that is because of what happened Saturday night with this man.
The American Nightmare Cody Rhodes
hit a Cross Rhodes on Priest to give his team the win inside WarGames.
The American Nightmare is here live, next.
[upbeat music continues]
Jump into WWE Supercard, season 10, and take control of the ring.
Celebrate the biggest season ever.
Challenge your friends in the all new campaign mode.
Collect four new card tears and much more.
The action never stops in WWE Supercard.
[upbeat music playing]
["Kingdom" playing]
-Wrestling has more than one loyal fan. -[crowd cheering]
[explosion]
♪ 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 ♪
[all] ♪ Whoa! ♪
[fireworks crackle]
♪ …said, when I was younger ♪
[announcer] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
The American Nightmare
Cody Rhodes!
[Michael] Wade, I had the opportunity to talk to Cody earlier today.
He was so excited and so proud to have had the opportunity
to participate in WarGames this past Saturday night,
of course, the match invented by his father, the late Great American Dream,
Dusty Rhodes.
Cody said he crossed another…
…another thing off on his bucket list.
[Wade] Well, what an emotional moment that must have been for Cody.
And indeed, all of us who loved The American Dream Dusty Rhodes.
We came along for the ride.
♪ Out the curtain lights go up, I'm home ♪
[all] ♪ Whoa! ♪
[fireworks crackle]
♪ …said, when I was younger ♪
♪ Hard times breed better men, better men! ♪
♪ You took it all away I give it all away ♪
♪ Can't take my freedom ♪
♪ Here to change the game a banner made of pain ♪
♪ I built my kingdom ♪
♪ Now you bow to me ♪
♪ You took my dreams but not my name ♪
♪ You'll follow me ♪
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Cody, Cody, Cody.
[Cody] Let's go, Nashville.
So…
Nashville.
[crowd cheering]
What do you want to talk about?
[crowd murmuring]
So many stories
stemming from this weekend.
Here's one of gratitude.
My team in the WarGames match at Survivor Series
was able to secure the victory, and I want to thank
each and every one of my teammates.
That being Sami Zayn…
[crowd cheering]
The Yeet Master, Main Event Jey Uso.
[crowd chanting] Yeet.
Our champion here on Monday Night Raw,
Seth Rollins.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting]
But lest we not forget, the other member of our team,
the one who came through for me.
The Legend Killer.
Randy Orton.
[crowd cheering]
Randy Orton was a mentor to me early on.
He remains that to this day.
Indeed, my dear friend, he's given me a handful of memories.
He gave me a brand new one
in the WarGames when he picked up Damian Priest,
he threw him to me.
He allowed me to do that Cross Rhodes one, two, three.
Secure the victory for our team, not just in any match…
But in my dad's match,
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] Dusty, Dusty, Dusty.
The other story.
The return of CM Punk.
[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting] CM Punk CM Punk CM Punk.
Nobody knew that was going to happen.
Nobody knows what's going to happen because of it, and that's why
tonight everybody is going to be tuning in to see what he has to say.
Here's what I have to say. CM Punk…
Welcome back.
[crowd cheering]
But what's the saying?
Fisherman always spots the other fisherman from afar.
With all this news being made…
All these stories…
Well, I'd like to make some news myself, and I'd like to do it right here.
[crowd cheering]
I think at this point you guys truly know me.
Which means there's only one destination for me.
[crowd cheering]
And that's why, granted the authority here by Adam Pearce,
I will be the very first to declare myself
for the 2024 Royal Rumble.
[crowd cheering]
[dramatic music playing]
Cody,
[speaking Japanese]
[crowd cheering]
[Michael] Mist from Shinsuke to Cody!
[crowd booing]
[referee] Hey, get out of here, Shinsuke!
Shinsuke Nakamura bringing the chaos he promised.
So Wade, it appears that Cody Rhodes
was the one that Shinsuke Nakamura has been targeting all along.
[Wade] Targeting with the mist to the the eyeballs, chaos has arrived.
And the poisoned mind of Shinsuke Nakamura hit the bull's eye.
["The Rising Sun" playing]
[Michael] Shinsuke Nakamura,
indeed, will be a true nightmare for Cody Rhodes.
Yeah, ladies and gentlemen, moments ago, Cody Rhodes with a big announcement.
Granted the authority here by Adam Pearce
I will be the very first to declare myself
for the 2024 Royal Rumble.
[crowd cheering]
[Michael] And after that major declaration,
all the lights in the Bridgestone Arena would go out.
And when they came back up… Shinsuke Nakamura promised chaos,
and he delivered with mist to the face of Cody Rhodes.
And Cody Rhodes, Wade, who wants to…
set up the next chapter, in finishing his story
at the Royal Rumble, may have to wait.
Well, Cody's got some new issues to deal with ahead of the Royal Rumble.
It has been quite the weekend here in WWE.
And a lot of thanks to get to here tonight.
Undoubtedly, we would like to extend
a special thank you to living color for Cult of Personality.
The official entrance song for CM Punk.
Available now, on Apple music and Spotify
[Michael] And you're going to hear it tonight because still to come, he's back.
CM Punk shocked the world by returning to WWE Saturday night at Survivor series.
It was the most watched, watched social moment in WWE history.
CM punk is here with a live microphone in hand live tonight,
["Battle Tested" playing]
[Michael] Can I use the old cliche here?
[Wade] Use a lot of those, but go ahead.
[Michael] batten down the hatches.
I think it's appropriate for this match.
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first.
From Black Forest, South Australia.
Weighing in at 300 Pounds.
Big Bronson Reed.
[Michael] Bronson Reed set to take on Ivar of The Viking Raiders,
I want to show how this came about a couple of weeks ago.
Here on Raw it was Miz versus Ivar.
Ivar was closing in on a victory, before Mister Reed showed up.
[Wade] That caused the distraction. Now these two had a little head to head.
In the locker room earlier that evening.
Miz capitalize.
Scored the victory.
But the big boy from Australia, Bronson Reed, was not done there.
Decided to flatten Ivar The Viking before one of the biggest tsunamis
we have ever witnessed on Raw,
much to the chagrin of Valhalla.
["Battle Tested" playing]
["Vicious" playing]
♪ Valhalla is here ♪
[announcer] And his opponent, accompany to the ring.
By Valhalla.
Representing The Viking Raiders, Yeah,
Ivar.
[Michael] At this match tonight, Big Bronson Reed is gonna.
Head to NXT tomorrow night, right here on USA To compete against
Three other former NXT North American champions.
Wes Lee, Cameron Grimes and Johnny Gargano in a Fatal 4-Way Match.
A match that Wes Lee must win.
In order to get an opportunity for the North American Championship.
At Dominik Mysterio, the NXT deadline in a couple of weeks.
Meanwhile, two behemoths weighed going at it in this match.
[Wade] Yeah, this is a phenomenon that is known gyms
around the world as big guy, he go and gyms.
Any moment the two biggest guys in there hate one another.
And that is kind of the issue between Bronson Reed and Ivar.
[Michael] You ever hear that one I go to the gym.
[Michael laughs]
[Wade] That's not something you ever need to worry about, Cole.
[Michael] Reed and Ivar one-on-one here tonight.
This is just about who is the biggest,
who is the baddest, who is the best.
-This will not be pretty. -[Wade] This is Monday Night Meat.
-[Michael] Big E is loving you somewhere. -[Wade] It's a spectacle.
I mean, where else can you see two beef planets like this colliding?
[Michael] Beef planets, I like that.
And now Ivar, knee right to the midsection of Bronson Reed.
Reed misses wildly, and Ivar knocks Reed into the ropes, and Reed takes Ivar down.
Now, you know, these men are big, they're powerful,
but they're actually very agile for their size.
-[Wade] Yeah, well, they exemplify -[Michael] Oh.
excuse me, exemplify the evolution of the big man style in WWE.
-It's not just-- Good enough. -Oh, sit down.
Not good enough to just be big and strong these days.
You need to be nimble too.
You need to be athletic or you will be left in the past.
These two can really move.
I was sort of taken aback when I saw Valhalla.
She doesn't have the horns on or the antlers or whatever they are.
You look for Valhalla tonight.
Oh! And the power again of Reed with a suplex.
Are you ever gonna go and interview Valhalla?
-You seem obsessed with her. -Nope, not at all.
-Yeah, don't blame me. -I'll leave that for Byron Saxton.
And here's Bronson Reed now out on the apron.
And Valhalla shoving Ivar out of harm's way.
And Ivar taking advantage.
Oh! And a big spin kick.
-[Wade] The smash against Bronson Reed. -[Michael] Cross body.
[Michael] Ivar dominating.
And we are back live on Monday Night Raw.
Bronson Reed and Ivar colliding in the Battle of the Behemoths here tonight.
Oh, again, this is a big matchup, Wade, because both of these men
have had their sights set on Gunther in the Intercontinental Championship,
so whoever wins this tonight maybe finds himself in line
for a future title opportunity.
[Wade] Another amazing performance at Survivor Series
from the Intercontinental Champion, but this one now descending into
a slugfest.
[Michael] 535 days, the longest reigning Intercontinental Champion ever.
And Ivar now measuring Bronson Reed. Went for the spin kick again.
Reed able to play defense and hit a kick of his own.
[Wade] He's just too quick on the reactions there.
-Reflex save though from Ivar. -Look at that.
Samoan drop by Bronson Reed in a big senton.
Cover on Ivar. Is it enough to put him away?
And Ivar has to kick out.
[Wade] Bronson Reed really getting the upper hand with that combo.
Ivar is in a mess.
I think Bronson smells blood.
[Michael] And now Bronson Reed misses wildly with a clothesline.
Ivar, the power, and the slam, and the cover, and just barely getting
the shoulder up Bronson Reed.
Nice round the world slam there from Ivar, completely turning the tables
in this one, just when the big Aussie looked to get the upper hand.
Power and energy required to pull off a move like that
against a huge human being like Bronson Reed.
[Wade] Now Valhalla screaming for Ivar to head up to the top rope.
[Wade] Going for a Doom Sault.
[Michael] From the top 300 plus pounds, Bronson Reed moves out of harm's way.
[Wade] Cat-like reflexes from Bronson Reed just when he needed it.
[Michael] Here you go.
[Wade] Here we are, we're going to Splashville, Tennessee, Cole.
We're going big tonight.
[Michael] And now Valhalla up on the apron, causing the distraction
which allows Ivar to roll out of harm's way.
[Wade] And saving the matchup for Ivar in the process.
[all cheering]
[Michael] And our official Daphanie LaShaunn
sending Valhalla back to the locker room area,
kicking her out of this matchup, and Valhalla's livid.
-[Wade] Bronson Reed should be livid too. -[screams]
He had the opportunity to put this one away,
but now Ivar seems recovered.
[Michael] Now Bronson Reed ducking underneath the bottom rope,
and Ivar now in pursuit.
And Ivar caught by Bronson Reed. Look at the power.
And just not able to completely hoist him up,
but driving Ivar through the timekeepers.
These men have been through so much in this match.
[Wade] Both men completely shot at this point.
-Exhausted. -Count of five, big kick by Ivar.
[Wade] Neither man prepared to take a backward step, however.
[Michael] Count of seven.
[Wade] They're not even listening to the referee at this point.
-These two detest each other. -Just beating the hell out of each other.
[Michael] And Ivar now trying to climb up to the barricade.
Bronson Reed.
Oh, goodness, with Ivar on his shoulders.
-[bell rings] -Oh, a Death Valley driver
into the barricade. There were steel chairs there.
You heard the bell ring for a double count out.
Ivar driven into the barricade.
[Wade] Barricade just shifted a full foot.
[Michael] And Ivar not done yet. He's got a steel chair in hand.
And this battle continues. The match is well over.
These two men just looking to beat the hell out of one another.
[Wade] How the hell is Ivar back on his feet after that?
That is not a man I would ever want to fight.
These two aren't human. My goodness.
Bronson Reed just driven into one of our technical workers there.
[Wade] Match is over. No sign of officials or security.
And I don't blame them.
I wouldn't want any part of these two either.
Oh, here we go.
[Michael] Security out here to try to separate these two.
-Ooh! -That didn't work out too well.
[Wade] Exactly why you don't try and split these two up.
[Michael] Ivar and Bronson Reed still beating the hell out of one another.
Bronson Reed now launching one of the security guards into Ivar.
[Wade] Adam Pearce out there, they're not listening to him either.
Get it back. Get it back.
[Michael] Ivar! The top of that tech case!
A cannonball to Bronson Reed!
Come on! Come on!
[crowd chanting indistinctly]
[Michael] Indeed.
-[all clamoring] -[official] That's enough.
[Wade] I'm thinking this one is not over, Cole.
-[grunts] -Enough!
-I'm not done. I'm not done. -Go!
There, I had Rhea right there at Survivor Series, right there.
Yes, you lost to Rhea, but you gave her a good fight
and you've been here, what, six months maybe?
-You're gonna get another shot, relax. -That's true.
Yeah, okay, all right, yeah, you're right, you're right.
-Oh, my goodness. -Congrats, champ.
Oh, that's right, Zoe.
You had a great match against Rhea at Survivor Series, took her to her limit.
But you fell a little short, didn't you? And you lost.
I mean, it should have been me at Survivor Series against Rhea,
because now you'd be addressing me as champion.
But that's fine. I plan on tearing through the division.
Every single woman should be on notice, whether it be Becky Lynch
or your friend Shayna over here.
-I will destroy-- -Maya, why don't you do everyone a favor
and shut your hole before somebody breaks your arm
-and puts you on the shelf again, dude? -Rude.
I got this. I don't need you or anyone else standing up for me.
Nia, looks like you're looking for a fight.
So how about you and I, one-on-one tonight?
That's exactly what I wanted.
Good.
-I can't with her anymore, dude. I'm done. -I'll beat her up again.
[Michael] And that matchup is going to happen right now.
The Irresistible Force versus Zoey Stark.
-[bell rings] -[announcer] The following contest
is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first,
from San Diego, California, Nia Jax!
[Michael] Well, ladies and gentlemen, Peacock's Black Friday deal is here,
and you don't want to miss it.
For a limited time, get Peacock for just $1.99 a month for 12 months,
or $19.99 for one year to stream all your favorite WWE content
at every WWE premium live event,
including NXT Deadline in a couple of weeks,
the Royal Rumble, WrestleMania, and so much more.
Eligibility restrictions and terms apply.
Wade, this should be a good one.
Nia Jax has been on a roll since debuting here in WWE against Zoey Stark,
who took Rhea Ripley to the limit this past Saturday night.
Stark, Nia, live next.
Monday Night Raw is live tonight at Music City USA on Broadway here
in Nashville.
And later on tonight, CM Punk returns to Monday Night Raw
for the first time in 10 years.
But let's show you how the world reacted to CM Punk's return
to WWE Saturday Night at Survivor Series.
["Cult of Personality" playing]
-Oh, my God! -Holy [bleep]!
Oh, my God!
[screams]
[commentator] CM Punk is here.
[woman] It actually happened!
No way!
[commentator] CM Punk.
[both screaming]
[man] Yo! CM Punk is back!
[crowd chanting] CM Punk returns!
[all cheering]
[crowd chanting] CM! CM! CM! CM Punk! CM! CM! CM Punk!
[yells]
[Michael] And perhaps the greatest return in the history of WWE,
CM Punk is indeed home.
And tonight, for the first time in a decade,
Punk is live on Monday Night Raw.
♪ Not about to lose I'm the greatest ♪
♪ Big smile for the haters ♪
[indistinct conversation]
Do you realize where you are right now?
What's up, dog?
[muttering indistinctly in Spanish]
Hey, what the hell is going on? There's sugar everywhere.
Bro, I found me a comfy place to enjoy these platinum,
multi-platinum, award-winning jelly rolls.
Truth?
-This is our clubhouse, man. -Filthy.
I know, and y'all ain't got no TV in here either.
But look, I was looking for y'all.
I heard that y'all were looking for a fifth member for y'all team
for WarGames. I just want to say, I'm in.
Sign me up.
Truth.
-WarGames already happened. -Two days ago.
No.
Did you win? How did I do?
You weren't in the match, and we lost, so thanks for the reminder.
Oh. He's lost.
You need to be cheered up.
Randy Orton's back. Ain't that cool?
-Dude, it's time for you to go. Get out. -Yeah, on your bike.
-You gotta go. -Y'all don't want nothing?
-No, we're good. -Real good.
-You should really go. -Cream on the cushions.
-Oh, my God, the couch is destroyed, boys. -Do you know what, Finn?
I'll take care of Truth.
We do need to tell you that.
["Not Like Most Girls" playing]
[Michael] There is only one R-Truth, and there is indeed only one Nia Jax.
The irresistible force set for action.
["Cut Above The Rest" playing]
[announcer] And her opponent from Las Vegas, Nevada,
Zoey Stark.
[Michael] What a career-making performance this past Saturday night
at Survivor Series, Wade, Zoey Stark, taking the women's world champion
Rhea Ripley to the limit.
[Wade] Yeah, it was a heck of a performance from Stark,
but ultimately she tasted bitter disappointment.
I'll tell you this, after that experience with Ripley at Survivor Series,
there's zero chance Zoey Stark is anywhere near 100% tonight,
whereas Nia Jax, completely fresh.
[Michael] Tough task here tonight for Stark against Nia Jax.
[Wade] Jax has been on a real tear of late…
-[bell rings] -…mowing through the women's division.
[Michael] Zoe looking to use her quickness in this matchup.
And Zoe, of course, a powerhouse in her own right.
She's no-nonsense, old-school, very technical style.
And Nia Jax, flat-out power, as she's showing you here.
[Wade] Completely. Zoey Stark just does not have a reverse gear.
Head first into the firefight. And that might be a bad move with Nia Jax.
[Michael] Zoey with a kick to the face of Nia. Now going to launch him.
Somehow it runs right into a forearm and dropped to the apron.
[Wade] Yeah, and if that first initial flurry against Nia Jax
is not successful, you are really behind the chains afterwards.
It's going to be a struggle from here on for Zoey Stark.
[Michael] You know, Nia Jax has put the entire locker room on Monday Night Raw
on notice. They're gonna take everybody out.
Power moves like that.
[Wade] What an effort it was against Raquel Rodriguez last week on Raw.
[Michael] A tremendous match last week.
[Wade] A dramatic statement that every woman in the locker room
was paying attention to.
[Michael] You have to believe there'll be a collision with Nia and Rhea Ripley
-at some point down the road. -Yeah, I agree.
Jax is looking like the big threat to Ripley's world title.
Oh, and Nia Jax, though, out of the ring because Zoey Stark.
[Wade] Yeah, shut up, Cole. I agree with Nia Jax.
[Michael] And Zoey on the top rope.
-[screams] -Zoey Stark's got Nia Jax down.
But she put her away.
[Michael] We are back live on Monday Night Raw
and Nia Jax has regained control of this matchup,
now just punishing Zoey Stark.
[Michael] Completely having her way with the young up and comer Stark,
who is desperately trying to get a little foothold in this one.
[Michael] And Zoey Stark, though, looking to rally.
We need some separation, but she runs in to Nia Jax.
[Wade] Just look at the wincing on the face of Zoey Stark.
Zoey tried to play it poker face coming into this one like
she wasn't hurting too much after Survivor Series.
We now know that was a lie.
[Michael] Yeah, Nia Jax has looked better than ever.
The former champion since returning here to WWE.
Zoey Stark's got some fight in her.
[Wade] Zoe Stark is not going to stop swinging…
-[Michael] She is swinging. -…unless her body is broken,
and that might do it.
[Michael] Nia just slinging Stark into the turnbuckle.
[Wade] Yeah, an opponent at less than 100% is just red meat to Nia Jax.
Exactly how she likes them.
[Michael] Again, you mentioned earlier the loss to Rhea on Saturday.
Probably not 100% physically, but Stark staying in this.
[Wade] Stark just does not have any quit in her.
[Michael] Nia quickly back to her feet.
And again, Nia Jax can be sudden with her impact.
-Yes, sudden, overwhelming-- -Oh, into the post
and Zoey now has a chance.
[Wade] It was a desperation move from start,
but it has given her a small window of opportunity.
[Michael] Love that move, the corkscrew senton
and notice how she targeted the knee
-of Nia Jax with that move. -[Wade] Exactly what she needed to do.
[Michael] Cover.
For the win on Jax. But that was wise, Wade.
Take the knee out, take the power out. Make Nia your side.
[Wade] Such smart thinking in the heat of the moment.
I mean, it's brilliant athleticism to start off with.
You're right, they're targeting right on that knee of Jax.
But immediately back up, though, is Jax once again.
Corkscrew senton from Zoey Stark, which almost took Rhea Ripley out
-Saturday at Survivor Series. -Oh.
[Wade] And now the toll of the past 48 hours
really starting to show on Zoey Stark.
This ain't where you want to be, Zoey.
[Michael] Nia Jax from the second rope looking for the Annihilator.
Zoey Stark, though, right back to the leg.
And now a kick to the face, and Zoey looking to rally.
Stacking Nia up for the win, and Nia's got a kick out at two.
[Wade] Yeah, that was a late kick out there.
Nia Jax in shock currently.
[Michael] Zoey off the top rope, Missile Drop Kick, Nia Jax goes down, cover!
Zoey for the win, yet again, another near fall for Stark!
[Wade] This is the key to victory here for Stark, it's that hit-and-move style,
outmaneuver the bigger opponent.
And when you've got skills like that, Zoey Stark, such quick thinking, bang!
[Michael] Zoey Stark firing on all cylinders now, has Nia in trouble.
Nia off her feet.
[Wade] Stark completely undaunted in this one.
Bodies still somehow hanging together.
[Michael] Oh, Nia Jax took advantage.
[Wade] And was that the final flurry from Zoey Stark?
[Michael] Nia with a Samoan drop to Stark.
And now Nia going to drag Stark's carcass to the middle of the ring.
Deliver a senton of her own. A crushing senton.
[Wade] All of that weight coming down on the midsection of Stark.
That has already been beaten from pillar to post in this one.
[Michael] And if you thought that was bad.
[Wade] It's squashing time, Cole.
[Michael] Look out for the annihilator.
-One, two, three! -[bell rings]
["Not Like Most Girls" playing]
[announcer] Here is your winner, Nia Jax!
[Michael] Oh, Wade, Nia Jax said she was gonna put the locker room on notice
and did she ever.
Boom, The Annihilator
from The Irresistible Force, Nia Jax.
Zoe Stark, what a performance again tonight, but Nia Jax is too big,
too powerful, too strong.
Jax is just on a tear right now, and more broken bodies are being left in her wake.
We talked a lot in that match about Zoe Stark in her matchup
at Survivor Series this past Saturday with Rhea Ripley.
How about the Intercontinental Championship match at Survivor Series
between the champion Gunther, the challenger, Miz…
Miz hopes to end Gunther's reign as Intercontinental Champion.
Gunther says he has no respect for The Entertainer, Miz.
Miz needs to be ferocious tonight. Trying to take out the champion's leg.
[Wade] Figure four, wrapped it around the post!
[Michael] Down goes Miz, stacks him up.
And pulls the protective covering off the turnbuckle. Low pull!
So crazy finale!
-This is gonna do it! -[crowd] One, two…
[Michael] Kick out by Gunther at two.
Oh, what a great to the jaw.
Sitting out on the tailbone of The Miz. Back to the center of the ring.
Gunther puts the knee right in the back, and it's over.
-[bell rings] -Miz taps out.
What a valiant effort by The Miz tonight.
533 days and counting for Gunther.
-[both speaking German] -[man speaking German]
[in English] I expect you two to go to Adam Pearce
and sort out the DIY issue.
-I promise you, next week we'll… -You promise?
I promise to get it done.
-[speaking German] -[speaking German]
Trouble in paradise?
What is it?
See, I saw your press conference after Survivor Series,
and you said that your next opponent needs to come challenge you to your face.
Well, here I am.
-Mike, you sure about that? -Sure about that?
Oh, I'm real sure about that.
I'm sure I can beat you and take that title off of your shoulder.
I know it, and I think now you know it.
I know it.
The only thing I know is that you are no threat to my legendary title reign.
But you stood up for yourself.
I give you that.
You came prepared for a fight.
And you can claim you belong in that ring.
Just not with me.
♪ Burn it down ♪
["Visionary" playing]
[crowd vocalizing to "Visionary"]
♪ Burn it down ♪
[announcer] Ladies and gentlemen, please welcome
the world's heavyweight champion,
Seth Freakin' Rollins!
♪ Burn it down ♪
[Michael] The World Heavyweight Champion is here, live on Raw.
[Michael] The 37th annual Survivor Series this past Saturday night.
Chicago was the most watched Survivor Series of all time.
And the stars were out.
The likes of Iyo Sky with a breathtaking leap from the top of the cage in WarGames.
And how about the Women's World Champion, the Eradicator, Rhea Ripley,
continuing her dominance in a battle with upstart Zoey Stark.
Randy Orton would return to WWE for the first time in a year and a half
to lead his team to a victory in WarGames.
What a weekend in Chicago.
And here tonight in Nashville, it's Monday Night Raw,
and the World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins is in the ring.
["Visionary" continues playing]
♪ Burn it down ♪
-[crowd cheering] -[crowd vocalizing to "Visionary"]
-Nashville! -[crowd cheering]
Welcome to Monday Night…
Rollins!
Monday Night Rollins!
I am a revolutionary.
-I am Seth… -[crowd] Freakin' Rollins!
[crowd vocalizing to "Visionary"]
[crowd chanting] CM Punk! CM Punk! CM Punk!
Go on. Come on.
Come on.
Come on. Yep.
Come on.
Oh, is that all you got, CM Punk fans? Come on.
Yeah, get it out of your system.
Get it out of your system, because I'll tell you what,
I don't want to spend one more second,
one more ounce of energy on that hypocrite.
[crowd cheering]
So instead of talking about somebody that don't matter at all,
why don't we talk about the thing that matters the most,
why don't we talk about the title that for the last six months,
I have built into the most important championship in this entire industry?
[crowd cheering]
[crowd vocalizing]
Now, Nashville, I gotta be real with you.
Two days out from WarGames, I'm not feeling too good,
but…
I'm starting to get the itch again.
I'm starting to get the itch
to be a fighting champion again.
And I went and saw Adam Pearce earlier this afternoon.
He and I sat in his office for a little while.
-We started talking about who might-- -["Gallantry" playing]
[Michael] Here's a man, Wade, who has been in a mood.
And it didn't get any better at WarGames.
[Wade] Didn't get any better at the Crown Jewel either
when he faced Seth Freakin' Rollins for that World Heavyweight Championship.
[crowd cheering]
It's been a crazy 48 hours around here, hasn't it, buddy?
My goodness, people are talking about a lot of things or even talking about us,
even what happened outside the ring.
But we know what's most important, what happens inside this ring.
And I wanna take a moment and shake your hands and say congratulations
for the victory at WarGames.
[crowd exclaiming]
But Judgment Day told me they had a master plan.
They promised Jey Uso on a silver platter.
I didn't get Jey Uso and apparently their master plan
involved losing the damn match. So that was a hell of a plan.
Jay's been driving me mental, mate, and I realize these past 48 hours,
I gotta get refocused.
I gotta put Jay on the back burner and focus on what's most important.
And what's most important is that World Heavyweight Championship
right there.
[crowd cheering]
Now do you happen to remember what you told me before
our world title match at Crown Jewel?
[laughs]
As a matter of fact, I do.
I believe I told you that when I beat you,
you'd have no one to blame but yourself.
And I told you that it was gonna be the best thing that ever happened to you.
Was I right?
You were 100% right.
I have nobody to blame but myself for losing that match at Crown Jewel.
And I know you remember this point of the match.
If anyone gets a chance to see it back, there was a point
where I had you in the steps.
I dropped that injured back on the apron.
You rolled in the ring and I could see in your eyes right there
that you were finished.
You were done, that's where I strike with the Claymore.
But something came over me as I saw you writhing in pain,
trying to get up.
Sympathy, compassion.
I don't know, thinking about you with your little girl backstage,
I felt the urge that I had to tell you it's okay.
You've done a great job as world champion, but it's over.
And I took you by the face to tell you it's over, and what did you do?
You slapped me right across the face, and I deserved that slap.
Because that loss was on me acting like that was Seth Rollins,
you were always gonna win.
And I realized to swim with sharks,
I've gotta become the biggest shark of all.
The compassion's gone, the sympathy's gone.
Get lost, Jey Uso.
I'm coming for that world title, I want the damn rematch.
[crowd cheering]
Drew, there's one thing about you that I've always respected, it's your honesty.
And I gotta be honest with you right now.
I do believe that you deserve a rematch.
The problem is, I believe there might be a couple people who deserve
a title opportunity a little bit more than you.
And that, Nashville, is why I came out here tonight.
I met with Adam Pearce,
and I wanted to tell you guys that right here next week,
I will be defending the World Heavyweight Championship live
on Monday Night Raw!
[crowd cheering]
You know what? You're the champ.
You call the shots. Do you mind if I ask who the match is with?
All right, Drew, I'm just going to come out and say it next week.
I'm defending the World Heavyweight Championship against Jey Uso.
-[mic drops] -[crowd cheering]
[crowd chanting indistinctly]
[Rollins] It's not personal.
-[Michael exclaims] -[crowd gasping]
[McIntyre grunts]
[Michael] Drew McIntyre's lost it.
Drew McIntyre has gone off the deep end.
Moments ago, he said he was going to put Jey Uso on the back burner.
[crowd booing]
Well, apparently, that is no longer the case.
Really, is this personal?
Is this personal against me, huh?
Jey Uso, Jey Uso.
You know, I beat him two weeks ago.
You know, I'm ahead of him in the line.
You know-- [grunts]
["Main Event Ish" playing]
[crowd cheering]
♪ Aye, aye ♪
♪ Main Event Jey Uso is now in your city ♪
♪ Yahoo! ♪
♪ It's just me, uce ♪
[Michael] And Jey Uso of course not one to back down
making his way out here to the ring.
[Wade] I don't think I'd get into the ring with McIntyre In this kind of mood.
[Michael] McIntyre's about to explode
and Jey Uso taking the fight to Drew.
[crowd chanting] Yeet! Yeet! Yeet!
[crowd] Oh, Yeet!
[Michael] And a big superkick,
and now Jey helping Seth to his feet.
Both of them will knock McIntyre, out of the ring.
But this borderline obsession,
with not only the World Heavyweight Championship
but with Jey Uso himself,
has completely changed the demeanor of Drew McIntyre.
[crowd cheering]
♪ It's just me, uce ♪
[Michael] Next week, Uso and Rollins battle for the World Heavyweight title.
McIntyre acted like he was betrayed tonight
by the world champ.
[Wade] This has cut McIntyre to the soul.
We've got a huge match-up coming next week,
for the World Heavyweight Championship and my concern right now
is that the last remnants of compassion,
have completely left the body of Drew McIntyre.
I don't know what he's capable of.
You saw that sinister smile on the face of Drew McIntyre.
This is far, far from over.
Well, ladies and gentlemen, it is a must see,
Monday Night Raw, tonight, still plenty more to come.
Including the return, for the first time in a decade,
of CM Punk live, to Monday Night Raw.
What will the controversial Punk have to say?
We'll find out tonight.
And Wade, how about this?
For the first time in 18 months, Randy Orton is in action
in our main event.
[Wade] Cannot wait for this one.
Dirty Dominik Mysterio,
you might be in big trouble because the Viper is back
and he's coming for you later on tonight.
And right now it is time for a tag-team championship match.
["Blue Marvel" playing]
[Michael] The feisty, Tegan Nox.
["New Foundation" playing]
[Michael] Who has developed quite the friendship with the veteran,
the Queen of Hearts, Natalya.
It was last week, here on Monday Night Raw
that Tegan and Natalya won a Fatal 4-Way Match.
To earn this opportunity at the tag-team champions.
Up next, Natalya and Nox,
take on Piper Niven and Chelsea Green
Tag title gold, on the line.
Live on Raw.
[narrator reading]
♪ This is my brutality ♪
♪ I eat, sleep, bleed ♪
♪ The demons in your dreams ♪
♪ I eat, sleep, bleed… ♪
[Sami] Drew! Hey, Drew.
-Hey. -Sami.
Not now.
-No, no, no. -Don't start.
Hey, you need to hear this, all right?
Because I don't know what's going on with you lately.
What was that? You can't beat Seth Rollins one on one.
So you gotta head-butt him when he's not ready?
[McIntyre] Mate.
You're not listening out there.
He's clearly got something against me.
You don't even understand what I'm going through. How could you?
I don't understand?
Guess what, Drew? You're not the only one around here who's had disappointments,
okay?
What you lost at the Universal Championship
against Roman Reigns in front of your family. Guess what? So did I.
You came up a few seconds short of beating Seth Rollins
for the World Heavyweight Championship. Guess what? So did I.
Every disappointment you've had in your career.
I have had the same times ten.
But the difference is, when I fall down, I dust myself off.
I pick myself up and I keep moving forward because I know the endgame for me
is becoming World Heavyweight Champion.
Drew, you've already been World Champion twice.
Look at you.
You're 6'6" you're 300 pounds of pure muscle.
You've got everything going for yourself.
And you're acting like a spoiled little brat.
You're better than that.
You know what?
Maybe you've got a few points.
Maybe I need to take your advice, Seth's advice, my own advice,
and start working my way back up the ladder.
I'm gonna go to Adam Pearce right now, and get myself a match for next week.
With you.
[Michael] I get what Sami's saying, but…
Tonight probably wasn't the best night.
[Wade] Sami Zayn is not capable of reading a room,
and that just backfired badly on him.
♪ …it's Chelsea ♪
[Michael] Here are the tag-team champions
Chelsea Green and Piper Niven, who, I guess…
graced us with their presence on commentary last week.
[Wade] No, they didn't grace us. As I recall, they graced a Matthew Cole
and a Wayne Barry. That's what Chelsea called us.
[Michael] Nonetheless, they defend their titles against Natalya and Tegan Nox.
Here live on Monday Night Raw.
[Wade] What an odd duo, Chelsea and Piper are.
However, there's a very strange chemistry between the two of them.
And as the weeks go by, they are forming more and more of a formidable unit.
[Michael] And they've been extremely successful as the tag champs.
♪ I'm a hot mess ♪
♪ Whoa, oh ♪
♪ I'm a hot mess ♪
♪ Whoa, oh ♪
♪ Whoa, oh… ♪
[bell rings]
[ring announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
and it is for the WWE
Women's Tag-Team Championship.
[crowd cheering]
Introducing the challengers.
The team of Tegan Nox
and Natalya!
[crowd cheering]
And their opponents.
They are the WWE Women's Tag-Team Champions,
Piper Niven and Chelsea Green.
[crowd booing]
So, if you're Natalya and Tegan Nox, Wade, what do you need to do
to knock off the champs and take the titles tonight?
[Wade] I'll tell you this about Natalya.
She is the number one veteran in the game who's done it all before.
But Tegan Nox, to me, is the key to victory here.
Go back a couple of weeks.
Tegan Nox pulled off a shock singles victory
against Piper Niven here on Raw.
They are capable of getting this done.
[Michael] And Piper told us last week that she has not forgotten
about this and Natalya, very eager,
to get this match-up underway. Locking up before the bell even rang.
So here we go for the Women's Tag-Team titles
[Wade] I knew Natalya would want to get her hands on Chelsea.
Chelsea, on social media earlier this week, said, "It's time
to shut these losers up."
Natalya replied, helpfully, saying,
"I'm the loser who has more wins in the history of WWE
than any other woman."
Quite a good point, I felt.
[Michael] Chelsea Green doesn't make many friends.
Oh, and, I wonder why.
[Wade] It's not about making friends it's about making money.
And Natalya with that sharpshooter attempt
is exactly how she makes her money.
[Michael] And a tag made by Chelsea to Piper Niven.
This will be an interesting match-up.
The veteran Natalya and Piper Niven.
[Wade] Natalya has fought the biggest and the baddest.
And I would have to include Piper Niven in that grouping.
[Michael] And Piper-- Oh, shoulder first to the post.
Natalya makes the tag and here comes the speedy and agile Tegan Nox.
The Welsh firecracker.
[Michael] And Piper Niven stunned by Tegan
may have her where she wants her.
Oh, big kick by Tegan, tag.
[Wade] Tegan looking completely rejuvinated
after a couple of years out of the game.
[Michael] Natalya crossbody.
-Yeah! -[Michael] Natalya and Tegan are rolling.
The tag titles are on the line.
[Michael] We're back live on Monday Night Raw.
This, of course is for the Women's Tag-Team title.
Piper Niven and Chelsea Green against Natalya and Tegan Nox
and Piper and company dominating.
[Wade] Yeah, the tide has turned in a big way,
and the champions showing exactly why they have retained the gold.
[referee] Get down, come on.
Let's go, get down off the corner.
[Michael] Chelsea, with Natalya up on the top rope.
Not quite sure what she's trying to do here, but…
[Wade] She's in the middle of talking smack to our audience, that's the problem.
Taking her eye off the ball, perhaps allowing Natalya
an opportunity to fight back here.
[Michael] Big right hand knocked Piper down.
Chelsea knocked off the ropes as well and Natalya with an opportunity.
-[Wade] Chelsea-- -[Michael] Again meets her there,
Natalya slips underneath And now Natalya--
planting Chelsea sit up powerbomb,
to win the tag team titles and a kick-out.
[Wade] Close to a surprise win,
out of nowhere there from Natalya desperate to get this tag to Tegan.
And it's there.
[Michael] And here comes Tegan Nox.
And Tegan Nox, who will definitely pick up the pace in this match.
And you called her the key, early on Wade, to this thing.
[Wade] This is your opportunity now, Tegan.
She's been the woman for months
that nobody's really been paying enough attention to.
That has changed, in a hurry in recent weeks.
And Tegan Nox is on fire.
[Michael] That was not wise by Chelsea.
You know me, I've been a massive fan of Tegan Nox for years.
Dating back to the Mae Young Classic.
[Wade] Nice head-butt, must have been watching McIntyre.
[Michael] And Tegan now looking for-- Face first goes Chelsea.
And now Piper not able to get involved
as Tegan cuts her off coming into the ring.
[Wade] Wow, keep Piper out of the ring.
Focus on Chelsea.
This is your key to victory now.
Tegan kick to Green. Now, Tegan Nox gonna go up high.
Top rope for Nox takes out Chelsea Green.
Cover to win the tag team gold.
And Piper Niven, saves the championships.
[Wade] Well, she had to because that was a bullseye landing
to the sternum of Chelsea Green.
[Michael] You notice how Piper pulls Chelsea back to the corner,
which allows her to make the tag.
[Wade] Such brilliant tag team work from Piper Niven
Apparently, Tegan Nox,
is not aware that the tag even happened.
[Michael] Look at that code breaker
and then held on as Piper came running across the ring,
crushing Nox, cover.
Natalya's got to save the match-up.
[Wade] This match could have been over twice in the last 60 seconds.
Both tag partners intervening in the match-up,
keeping this match alive. But for how much longer?
[Michael] Natalya sent out of the ring by Piper, and will tag Chelsea Green.
Now Chelsea, looks to put Tegan Nox away.
Looking for the Unpretty Her and Tegan Nox able to counter.
So Piper makes the tag.
[Wade] Nox with too much left in the tank.
This one's spilling out all over the ringside area now.
[referee] Get in the ring, let's go.
[Michael] And now Chelsea,
with a crossbody, caught though by Tegan and Natalya.
[Michael exclaims]
[Michael] Suplexing Chelsea into the barricade.
[Wade] I believe it is Piper Niven who is legal here.
[Michael] Piper Niven with a cannonball off the apron.
[Wade] Completely wrecking both teammates
in one fell swoop.
[referee] Two!
[Michael] Sending Tegan back into the ring.
This might just be academic.
Running, flying crossbody.
-Cover! -One, two, three!
-[Michael] Piper and Chelsea retain. -[bell rings]
[ring announcer] Here are your winners.
It's still…
The WWE Women's Tag Team Champions,
Chelsea Green
and Piper Niven.
[Wade] Well, there was a game effort from the challengers.
But once the chaos ensued,
Piper Niven and Chelsea Green once again, retain the gold.
[Michael] Chelsea and Piper have been unstoppable as of late,
as they continue to be the Women's Tag Team Champions.
It's been quite the night. Still to come.
Randy Orton's in action, coming up next. CM Punk is here as well.
Next week, Monday Night Raw travels to the capital city of New York, Albany.
And a couple of great matches on that card,
including World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins,
defending the championship against Main Event Jey Uso.
Rollins and Uso for the world title next week.
[Wade] And as we saw a few minutes ago, McIntyre's mental decline has continued.
And Sami Zayn made the mistake of trying to reason with him, and it didn't work.
And now he faces the ire of the Scottish warrior.
Those two go one on one next week, on Raw.
[crowd cheering]
I just wanted to find you before you found me, uce.
-Is that right? -Yeah.
I just wanted to say thank you for getting our backs at WarGames.
And if it means anything,
I heard you talking about receipts for The Bloodliners.
I'm sorry how that went down, back in the day.
Cody gave me a second shot here on Raw
so, I'm trying to do right here, man.
And leave the past in the past.
I understand that I understand that and listen.
Uce, I've been watching.
I've seen the last few months, hell, even longer than that.
You've had Cody's back.
You've had a lot of these guys back.
Cody trusts you, a lot of other guys trust you.
That means something to me.
So, as far as I'm concerned, man, let bygones be bygones.
We cool, but I am gonna handle some unfinished business with The Bloodline.
-As long as you're out of The Bloodline… -I'm out.
Then we're good.
We're good.
-Yeet. -Yeet.
It means good luck.
Thank you.
[Michael] Well tonight, Randy Orton has some new business with The Judgment Day.
["It's My Time" playing]
[crowd booing]
[bell rings]
[announcer] The following contest is scheduled for one fall.
Introducing first, accompanied to the ring by JD McDonagh,
representing The Judgment Day.
He is the NXT North American Champion,
Dominik Mysterio!
[Michael] I give JD McDonagh credit for coming out here.
He's already suffered two RKO's at the hands of Orton
in the last three days.
Coming up next, I hope Dominik knows what he's getting into.
For the first time in a year and a half.
Randy Orton in action,
live, on Monday Night Raw.
[Michael] CM Punk's return this Saturday night at Survivor Series
was the WWE most social moment ever.
Currently, at 71 million video views on all social platforms.
It's WWE's most viewed, liked and re-posted X tweet of all time.
Triple H's Instagram picture that he took with CM Punk in the backstage area
is the highest performing post ever across all his accounts
and the WWE Instagram reel, has the most views
of any show clip in the first 24 hours.
All time.
Punk's here, later on tonight.
Welcome back to Monday Night Raw.
Please join me in welcoming my guest at this time.
The Man, Becky Lynch.
[crowd cheering]
Becky, 48 hours ago, you really went to war in Chicago
and you came out victorious.
How are you feeling now, after such an epic battle?
Well, I'm feeling like I went to war in an epic battle,
and I think I look like I went to war in an epic battle.
But it seems like Saturday night was a night of making amends.
But there is a thin line between love and hate,
and I never know when one is going to switch.
From one to the other.
But right now it feels pretty good.
But that's enough talking about Saturday night.
Let's talk about tonight.
Tonight, The Man has come around to Nashville.
There are a couple of fights on the horizon.
One more pressing than the other.
[Michael] Talking about--
[Wade] Well, I'm talking about, youthful naivety.
Dom Mysterio, I admire you, but I would not want to be in your boots tonight.
["Voices" playing]
[announcer] And his opponent from Saint Louis, Missouri.
Weighing in at 250 pounds.
The Apex Predator!
Randy Orton!
[Michael] Randy Orton is a 14-time World Champion.
That number, matched by The Game, Triple H.
Only two other men in history, held more world titles.
That would be John Cena and, of course, The Nature Boy Ric Flair.
At 16, Randy Orton has won a Money in the Bank.
He's won a couple of Royal Rumbles, and he is one of the all time best.
Wade, you have been in the ring with Randy Orton.
What is Dominik Mysterio running into?
[Wade] Cole, I just told you, I would never switch places
with Dominik Mysterio in a million years.
You're correct. I've been in the ring with Randy Orton a ton of times.
It rarely ended well for me.
And I would never go back there in there with him.
And here's the truth, McIntyre.
Here's the truth Cole, even…
-Sorry, I'm admiring Randy's physique. -[Michael laughing]
[Wade] and I'm kind of like, you're definitely not McIntyre.
Randy looks like he could have just won Mr. Olympia.
I have never seen him this big and this polished, physically.
It just gets worse and worse for Dominik Mysterio.
[Michael] You know, I talked to Randy Orton the other day
before Survivor Series and he was telling me
that he's changed up his training routine
because of the double fusion back surgery.
Randy said, he's had to change things up.
He trains differently now.
He focuses a lot more on stamina.
He doesn't do heavy weights, but does a lot of reps.
And Randy Orton says he feels better than he has in years.
[Wade] He needs to release a book with all his secrets in it.
I know, I for one, would certainly read it.
[Michael] Dominik may want to get in the gym with Randy.
The Mysterio who is due to be at NXT tomorrow night.
To witness that Fatal 4-Way, to see if Wes Lee can earn an opportunity
at his North American Championship at Deadline.
That's if Dominik can make it out of Nashville tonight.
[crowd chanting] Randy! Randy! Randy!
It's about the worst prep possible for tomorrow night's NXT.
For Dom Mysterio.
He might shock us, you never know.
[Michael] You look at the man who's at the top of the food chain in WWE
It's Apex Predator, Randy Orton.
And a cheap shot by Dominik,
and I admire Dominik's tenacity and wanting to get out of the box quickly.
But I'm not sure how wise that was.
[Wade] There's some of the massive frame of Randy Orton
coming into play in the early goings.
And yeah, Dom, you're in trouble tonight.
Perhaps that is slowly dawning
on the young NXT North American Champ.
[Michael] I'm surprised McDonagh is walking. He's got a neck brace on.
He suffered an RKO Saturday night coming off the top of a cage,
and then an RKO earlier tonight as well.
[Wade] McDonagh constantly putting his body on the line for The Judgment Day.
But being out here now with Randy Orton
-[Michael] What a back body drop. -[Wade] It's not wise.
[Michael] Randy Orton in total control.
The Viper is back.
It has been all Randy Orton here tonight on Monday Night Raw.
He return to the ring after 18 months,
and he goes one on one with Dominik Mysterio.
[Wade] The very definition of a one way traffic.
And you struggle to think, what on earth
can Dominik Mysterio do against this onslaught?
[Michael] The night started with Rhea Ripley interrupting Randy.
And Dominik lands on his feet, though, and then from behind to the back of Orton.
[Wade] Nice, nimble move there from Dominik.
[Michael] Driving Randy into the steel steps.
And suddenly Dominik Mysterio has climbed back into this match.
[Wade] That ability to spot an opportunity
and capitalize immediately is exactly why
Dom Mysterio is so dangerous.
Randy's in a bad way here.
[Michael] Randy Orton, of course, we mentioned back surgery, out 18 months.
Dominik Mysterio target to the back. And now, Dominik has an opportunity.
Cover now on Randy and a kick out at two.
[Wade] Here's the thing you gotta remember I know, we saw Randy looking effortlessly
brilliant at WarGames, but he stepped into that match-up
when everybody else in the match it was already beaten down.
This is essentially a fresh opponent for the first time for Randy Orton
and now, Dominik Mysterio, against all the odds in complete control.
[Michael] Rhea Ripley was stirring things up in here,
telling Randy Orton the landscape has changed.
Randy Orton decided differently. Whipped into the corner
and now, exploding out of the corner with a clothesline.
And now Randy Orton, starting to pick up the pace
to the beautiful powerslam in sports entertainment.
[crowd cheering]
[Wade] And if you're Randy Orton's opponent,
this is where your heart starts sinking.
[Michael] Said the other night, it's been a long time.
One.
Two.
Three, four--
[Michael] Vintage Orton.
[crowd whistling and cheering]
[Michael] And now the Viper is coiled to strike.
[Wade] The most terrifying sight in WWE.
[Michael] And JD McDonagh,
dragging Dominik Mysterio out of harm's way.
[Wade] McDonagh doing Mysterio's thinking for him.
[referee] Come on, you gotta get back inside.
What are you looking at?
[Michael] Dominik, are you gonna fight? What's happening here?
[Wade] Give the guy a break.
Jelly Roll…
[cheering]
[inaudible]
-You think I'm playing with you now, dawg? -What are you going to do?
[Michael] Oh, Jelly Roll.
Who do you think you are?
[Michael] The CMA Award winner just dumped JD McDonagh.
I'm Dom Mysterio!
[Michael] And Dominik as well.
[Wade] Mess with The Judgment Day, you're a dead man walking.
Whoo, what's the smell?
[Wade chuckling]
[Michael] Randy Orton, now with Dominik.
Sit down! [exclaims]
That had to hurt.
[Wade] Saw the elevation that Randy got on Dominik there.
[crowd chanting] One more time!
[Michael] Well, Dominik all caught up in our…
announce cables here.
[Wade] Spine first on our monitors.
[crowd chanting] One more time!
[Wade] This audience is sick in the head.
[Michael] And another one!
[crowd roars]
Randy!
[Michael] JD McDonagh, this guy has no brains.
Sorry, but he doesn't.
[Wade] He's all heart though.
[Michael exclaims]
And Dominik from behind with a dropkick.
Trying to take advantage.
Now, looking for the 619 to Randy Orton and Dominik's got an opportunity.
Dominik gonna go up to the top rope, Randy's in trouble.
Mysterio, top rope frog splash. Nobody home.
RKO!
[crowd cheering wildly]
[inaudible]
[audience counting] One, two, three!
[bell rings]
[ring announcer] Ladies and gentlemen, here is your winner.
The Apex Predator.
Randy Orton!
[Michael] Randy Orton is back.
♪ …to keep you safe ♪
♪ But when rules start getting broken ♪
♪ You start questioning your faith ♪
♪ I have a voice that is my savior ♪
♪ Hates to love and loves to hate ♪
♪ I have a voice that has the knowledge ♪
♪ And the power to rule your fate ♪
♪ I hear voices cryin' ♪
♪ I see heroes dyin'… ♪
[Michael] For the first time in a decade,
CM Punk is on Monday Night Raw.
Live, next.
For the first time ever, Germany will host a major WWE premium live event.
Saturday, August 31, 2024.
It will be the Bash in Berlin, at the Mercedes Benz Arena.
The night before is Friday Night SmackDown on Fox.
The first time ever as well, in Germany.
Tickets for Bash in Berlin and SmackDown
are on sale this Thursday.
["Cult of Personality" playing]
[crowd cheering]
♪ Look in my eyes ♪
♪ What do you see? ♪
♪The cult of personality ♪
♪ I know your anger ♪
♪ I know your dreams ♪
♪ I've been everything you wanna be ♪
♪ Oh, I'm the cult of personality ♪
[announcer] Ladies and gentlemen,
please welcome,
CM Punk!
♪ Neon lights, Nobel Prize ♪
♪ When a mirror speaks ♪
♪ The reflection lies ♪
♪ You won't have to follow me ♪
♪ Only you can set me free ♪
♪ I sell the things you need to be ♪
[audience chanting] CM Punk! CM Punk!
[chanting continues]
Looks like hell froze over.
[crowd cheering]
And when I mean hell froze over,
I mean, this is me.
Standing in a WWE ring,
on Monday Night Raw with a live microphone in my hand.
[crowd cheering]
I don't mean the fact that apparently a Blackhawks fan
is universally loved inside the predator's barn.
[crowd booing]
Okay. I'm sorry, I had to.
You guys understand that I got to be me, right?
And lately, I've been feeling a little bit more like myself
ever since Saturday, which was a career highlight for me.
I've been trying to come up with the words and the language
to explain to all of you exactly how I feel.
And I've come to two words, and I'm afraid to say them honestly,
and it's not because they're not true.
It's because I'm a little bit scared of how true they actually are.
And it's a little bit corny and cheesy,
and it's not gonna sound like CM Punk.
But I've changed.
And once upon a time, an American Dream taught me
that as long as you speak from the heart,
you cannot go wrong.
Because it is the truth.
And this is the truth.
I'm home.
[crowd roars]
[crowd chanting] CM Punk! CM Punk! CM Punk!
I've come back to this familiar place and I didn't know how I was going to react
or how it was going to go.
But it's made me feel like my old self.
Because this is where I belong.
This is home and I've been gone for 10 years. In over 10 years.
You people never forgot me, even when maybe I wanted to forget me.
And that's powerful.
You are all powerful.
A bunch of continents, countless countries,
arenas all over the world, the people watching at home.
The people in the building never stopped chanting my name.
[crowd chanting] CM Punk! CM Punk! CM Punk! CM Punk!
The voiceless found their voice.
And I couldn't be more proud of you.
And I heard you and that's why I'm back.
Because I love you guys.
-[crowd cheers] -I love you guys.
I love you guys.
And I've missed you guys, and all of this,
and I wish I could say, I never had to leave.
But once upon a time…
A wise man told me
for me to get everything I need out of this place,
I'd have to leave and come back.
I hate to say the wise man was right.
But that's why I'm back to get everything I need out of this place.
I'm back for you, because you are home.
[crowd cheering]
Saturday night was an amazing moment.
Monday night is an amazing moment.
I try to have the words to explain to you how it feels,
but in front of and behind the camera, it's been nothing but love.
It's been nothing but hugs.
It feels like a family reunion.
Everybody back there is happy to see me, and it's all smiles.
A few people kissed me on the mouth.
It's welcome back. Welcome home.
We've missed you. We're happy to see you.
By the way, how's AJ?
Ladies and gentlemen, I'm here to tell you AJ,
is fabulous and she sends her regards.
[crowd cheering]
Everybody has welcomed me back with open arms.
Well, almost everybody.
Some people are afraid.
They're afraid of the truth.
They're afraid of what they don't understand. But I understand.
Everything I've ever wanted has always been here.
The competition here, week in and week out,
competes to be the best in the world, but the best in the world
has not been here for almost 10 years.
[crowd cheering]
I understand being afraid.
They're afraid that I just set the bar to an unattainable level.
They're afraid that the brass ring is in my back pocket
and they can't grab it.
They're afraid that the most dangerous and controversial
feared men in this industry just walked through the front door
and there's nothing that they can do about it.
Some people are afraid that tomorrow morning,
when they wake up, they have to come to terms
with the fact that their best efforts at being the best in the world
in this ring, on this microphone,
even at commentary isn't just false, but it's a lie.
Because the best in the world is back and the best in the world
is standing in the middle of the ring.
Live and in living color in Nashville, Tennessee, on a Monday night
and his name it is…
[audience] CM Punk!
♪ Look in my eyes ♪
♪ What do you see? ♪
I'm back.
I'm not here to make friends, I'm here to make money. Monday night