WWE star Roman Reigns was married this weekend on the beach at Disney's Castaway Cay, a private island the company owns that is a regular destination for their cruise line.
Reigns posted photos from the ceremony on his official Instagram at this link.
On behalf of everyone at the site, we'd like to send Reigns and his family congratulations and well wishes.
It's been noted that WWE expects Rey Mysterio to be back on TV soon. Apparently Rey Mysterio and WWE have came to an agreement as Vince McMahon realizes that the company is short on top draws for the Hispanic market, leading him to "loosen up the purse strings" on some of Rey's requests.
It looks like Rey will not be singing with AAA's Lucha Underground and will be re-signing with WWE next May when the current deal expires.
There also may be a plan in place where Rey will be doing a lot of work outside of the ring for WWE.
While Rey does have his differences with Vince, he's been with WWE a long time and has a lot of friends in the company. It likely comes down to economics as Rey probably won't receive a better offer from any other company.
WWE just posted the following on WWE.com:
"WWE wishes Phil Brooks (aka CM Punk) the best of luck in his newest endeavor."
Punk's announcement last night brought him a ton of mainstream attention from ESPN, CBS, Yahoo, USA Today and a ton of other outlets.
New Japan Pro Wrestling announced Monday the final card for the "Wrestle Kingdom" Tokyo Dome Show on January 4, 2015. The event will air on PPV in the U.S. and Canada and internationally via the "Flipps" App delivered by Global Force Wrestling.
The full line-up, in reverse order of occurrence...
-- Main Event IWGP World Hvt. Title match: IWGP World Hvt. champion Tanahashi vs. G1 Climax winner Okada.
-- IWGP Intercontinental Title match: IWGP IC champion Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Kota Ibushi.
-- A.J. Styles vs. 2013 G1 Climax winner Tetsuya Naito in a special singles match.
-- IWGP World Tag Title match: Bullet Club (Doc Gallows & Karl Anderson) vs. World Tag League winners Shibata & Goto.
-- IWGP Jr. Hvt. Title match: Ryusuke Taguchi vs. Kenny Omega.
-- NEVER Title match: Tomohiro Ishii vs. Togi Makabe.
-- Fight match: Minoru Suzuki vs. Sakuraba with only KO, TKO, or submission stopping the match.
-- Toru Yano & mystery partner vs. Suzuki-Gun team. (Explanation HERE via PuroresuSpirit.com)
-- Bullet Club (Yujiro Takahashi & Bad Luck Fale & Jeff Jarrett) vs. Team New Japan (Kojima & Tenzan & Honma) in a six-man tag match.
-- IWGP Jr. Hvt. Tag Title match: ReDragon (Bobby Fish & Kyle O'Reilly) vs. Time Splitters (KUSHIDA & Alex Shelley), Young Bucks (Matt & Nick Jackson), and Forever Hooligans (Alex Shelley & Rocky Romero) in a four-team match.
-- Pre-Show: Battle Royal featuring remaining roster.
Ring of Honor Final Battle PPV Results December 7, 2014 New York City Report by James Caldwell, PWTorch assistant editor
Be sure to follow live PWTorch tweets tonight during the PPV on Twitter, including ROH TV specialist Mike Metzger @mD0uble. VIP members, stay tuned for a post-PPV Audio Roundtable Review of the PPV later tonight.
The PPV opened with a video package highlighting 2014, starting with the return of A.J. Styles. Also highlighted were ROH tag champs ReDragon, R.D. Evans's "Streak," Jay Briscoe as ROH World champion, Jay Lethal as ROH TV champion, Michael Elgin's interesting year, Tommaso Ciampa striking management, ROH outdoors at MCU Park in New York, the association with New Japan Pro Wrestling, Christopher Daniels & Chris Hero & Matt Sydal & Styles returning, and Kevin Steen saying good-bye. But, before they officially say good-bye to 2014, there is one final event -Final Battle.
Live from Terminal 5 in New York City, Kevin Kelly introduced the show as ROH cameras captured the arena setting. Steve Corino and Nigel McGuinness were ringside with Kelly to set the stage as the crowd chanted, "Final Battle!" Next, the crowd chanted, "We Want Wrestling," as Kelly introduced a Four Corner Survival match to kick things off.
Mark Briscoe was introduced first to a strong crowd reaction. Noticeable in the background were "Exit" signs, making the show look a little small-time. Caprice Coleman was out next, and ROH went to some different camera shots that looked cool. Definitely a mixed feel to the venue setting. Jimmy Jacobs was out next, followed by Hanson.
1 -- MARK BRISCOE vs. HANSON vs. JIMMY JACOBS (w/B.J. Whitmer) vs. CAPRICE COLEMAN -- Four Corner Survival match
Before the bell sounded, Mark, Caprice, and Hanson adhered to the Code of Honor while Jacobs hung out in the corner. An eclectic mix of wrestlers here. "Man Up!" chants toward Mark, who started against Caprice. Mark's entire face was covered by his hair and beard, making it difficult to see any facial expressions in the darkly-lit arena. Mark and Hanson engaged in a face-to-face/beard-to-beard mid-ring confrontation, then Mark knocked Hanson to the outside. On the floor, all four men mixed it up, leading to Mark delivering a running Blockbuster to Hanson.
Mark rolled Hanson back into the ring, but was unable to get a pin. Caprice then tagged in and tried to splash Hanson, but Jacobs tagged himself in, shoved Caprice to the mat, and delivered a top-rope butt splash to Hanson for a two count when Mark broke up the pin. All four men found themselves in the ring, where everyone hit big moves until Hanson took out Jimmy and Mark on the floor. Caprice then dove onto Hanson on the floor to put an exclamation mark on the sequence.
But, back in the ring, Caprice tried to pin Hanson, only to take a Spin Kick of Doom from Hanson. Hanson covered for the pin and the win. The announcers said this caps off a strong 2014 for Hanson heading into next year.
WINNER: Hanson at 10:45. Standard ROH four-way that starts with organized tags, breaks down on the floor, breaks down in the ring, finishers fly, sequences unfold, and someone eventually gets the win. Caprice looked good in defeat, but the story was about enhancing Hanson. (**1/2)
Video Package: Adam Page is looking for respect from The Decade, specifically Roderick Strong.
In-ring: Jimmy Jacobs was still in the ring, with B.J. Whitmer. Jacobs talked about every young wrestler having the chance to grab the "brass ring." The crowd laughed a bit at the C.M. Punk Podcast reference. Whitmer took the mic from Jacobs and told Jimmy that Adam Page will take his full-fledged spot in The Decade tonight, going against Jacobs. Page then marched down to the ring to boos. Roderick Strong was out next to cheers selling being fired up about the match.
2 -- RODERICK STRONG vs. ADAM PAGE
No Code of Honor for this grudge match. Roddy opened up with some hard chops to Page, who tried to fight back to prove himself to Strong. On the floor, Strong lit up Page with more chops to the chest. Page turned things around with right hands, but Strong flipped Page over the barricade into the front row. This drew over B.J. Whitmer, who provided a slight distraction that allowed Page to explode on Strong with a clothesline.
Back in the ring, Page dominated until Strong made a comeback. B.J. tried to interfere from the outside, drawing a baseball kick from Roderick. Roddy, fired up, followed with a backbreaker to Page, then he smashed him with a corner boot, but only got a two count. Strong followed with the Sick Kick, but Page kicked out just before three. Kicks were exchanged, then Page flipped over the top rope into the ring for a running lariat for a close two count. That woke up Strong, who nailed a Strong Breaker suplex into a backbreaker. Strong followed up with the Strong Hold, bending Page like a pretzel. Page resisted tapping out, B.J. yelled at Page to fight back, and the referee eventually stopped the match before Page suffered a permanent injury.
Post-match, Jacobs and B.J. helped Ethan to his feet. Jacobs shook Page's hand while B.J. went to the announce position to antagonize Steve Corino. Corino was restrained as B.J. jogged away.
WINNER: Strong via ref stoppage at 12:07. Strong looked good in victory and should be in the ROH Title hunt in 2015. The Decade storyline seems to be treading water at the moment. (**1/2)
Video Package: Michael Elgin vs. Tommaso Ciampa.
In-ring: Michael Elgin was introduced first for the "anti-Nigel McGuinness" match. Not much reaction for Elgin, who walked to the ring as if he didn't want a reaction playing the disgruntled wrestler role. It also captures how ineffective Elgin's "worked shoot" program has been since this landed only third on the card on ROH's biggest show of the year. Tommaso Ciampa was out next to a solid reaction as Nigel recapped his issues with both men.
3 -- MICHAEL ELGIN vs. TOMMASO CIAMPA
The Code of Honor was recognized, but Elgin kept the handshake locked when Elgin tried to walk away. Elgin eventually elbowed Ciampa in the face, so Ciampa fired back as the bell sounded. After a heated exchange, Ciampa grabbed Elgin by the crotch to inflict punishment, nearly drawing a DQ. The referee let it go, though, and Elgin came back with a guillotine leg drop and then a top-rope splash for a two count.
To the floor, where both men recovered from the early onslaught. Both men came to their feet and started clearing the ringside area looking to create chaos. Elgin re-arranged the timekeeper's table, then teased a powerbomb through the table, but Ciampa blocked and suplexed Elgin onto the ring apron. It was only good for a two count back in the ring.
After a reset, Elgin grappled Ciampa for a spinning Elgin Bomb, but Ciampa kicked out just in time. The announcers sold shock over Ciampa kicking out of Elgin's finisher. Elgin was unable to recover, as Ciampa came back with his Project Ciampa running powerbomb across his knees, but he also only got a two count.
Ciampa moved to the floor, where he set up the timekeeper's table for a power move, but Elgin blocked. Elgin then suplexed Ciampa back inside the ring. Elgin mocked Ciampa's fingers-to-the-head pose, only to run into a huge lariat from Ciampa, but it was again only good for a two count. Ciampa tried Project Ciampa again, but Elgin blocked and hit a Bucklebomb. The referee moved right behind Elgin, setting up a spot where Ciampa accidentally clotheslined ref Turner when Elgin ducked.
Ringside, Nigel McGuinness stood up selling concern over the events since he instituted zero tolerance on Ciampa attacking refs, but it appeared to be incidental. Nigel eventually bailed from ringside to the back, not making a decision on the conflictual situation. Back to the match, where Elgin took advantage of Ciampa pleading his case to Nigel by delivering a lift-up DDT to Tommaso for the pin and the win.
Post-match, the announcers sold Ciampa potentially being fired tonight after hitting a ref. Meanwhile, Elgin shouted into a ringside camera that he wants the ROH Title back. No use of the table, which they were apparently saving for the main event.
WINNER: Elgin at 13:21. Fine, but not very memorable with Elgin losing momentum since returning to ROH and the audience not particularly interested in Ciampa and Nigel conflicted over a ref bump. (**1/2)
Next PPV: Ring of Honor's 13th Anniversary live from Las Vegas on Sunday, March 1.
In-ring: Christopher Daniels, Kazarian, and Cedric Alexander were introduced to the ring for a six-man tag match up next. Daniels and Kaz did their usual dance-and-strut introduction while Alexander joined in the background. A.C.H. was out first for the next team, followed by the Young Bucks sporting Bullet Club t-shirts. Big reaction for the Bucks.
Live PPV Second Hour
4 -- YOUNG BUCKS (MATT & NICK JACKSON) & A.C.H. vs. CHRISTOPHER DANIELS & KAZARIAN & CEDRIC ALEXANDER -- six-man tag match
There was a much different energy to this match than the previous three matches with a hot act like the Young Bucks in the match. On cue, the Young Bucks took the spotlight early on, but Daniels & Kaz wowed the crowd with a double slam to A.C.H. on the outside after catching him in mid-air. Matt Jackson came back with a superkick, then Young Bucks hit a double-team combo on Daniels that nearly scored the win, but Kaz broke up the pin.
The match moved to the floor, where Cedric took out as many bodies as he could on a flip dive. Back in the ring, Matt Jackson ran into an elbow from Daniels, then took a foot stomp to the chest for a two count. All six men became involved in the match as referee Todd Sinclair backed down to let the action fly. Superkick from Matt Jackson to Cedric, but Daniels blocked a second, hit Angel's Wings, and then took a superkick from Nick. Everyone down in the ring.
Reset at 11:00. The Young Bucks smashed Kaz with a double suoerkick, then Daniels cleared the Bucks and dropped A.C.H. in the middle of the ring. Daniels followed with the BME, but A.C.H. blocked. Triple Superkick to Daniels, but Cedric came off the top with a triple splash. "I'm blown up!" Corino declared on commentary. Superkicks to Cedric, then the Young Bucks combined for a spike Tombstone. This set up A.C.H. coming off the top with a 450 splash for the pin and the win.
WINNERS: Bucks & A.C.H. at 12:43. A very athletic spotfest, but there was so much talent in the ring and the Young Bucks are having such a great year that it worked. Nothing was on the line, though, so it happened and they moved on. (***1/2)
Video Package: R.D. Evans put his Streak on the line against TV champion Jay Lethal, but Moose turned on Evans, costing him the Streak and the title.
In-ring: Prince Nana and Stokely Hathaway (the former Ramon) came to the ring to pave the way for Moose. R.D. Evans was out next looking for revenge on Moose. No sign of Veda Scott. Kelly noted Veda's world collapsed around her when the Streak ended, but she was scheduled to be here.
5 -- MOOSE (w/The Embassy) vs. R.D. EVANS
The referee asked for the Code of Honor, but Evans slapped Moose instead. Moose laughed, then went for a clothesline, but Evans ducked as the bell sounded. Moose eventually overpowered Evans, who tried to use his speed to no avail. On the outside, Moose whipped Evans repeatedly into the barricade. This brought out Veda Scott, who sold with tears as Evans was manhandled. Back in the ring, Moose clotheslined Evans, who kicked out at two of a cocky cover.
Evans tried to fight back with an elbow, then he ducked a clothesline and dropkicked Moose in the corner. Evans twice tried a springboard move, but fell down twice. So, he finally just threw himself down at Moose on the third try. Evans stood in the ring accepting "You F'ed Up" chants from the crowd, then successfully delivered a top-rope move. Evans took a while following up, so Moose punched him in the gut.
Evans came back with a Sharpshooter, which he applied center ring. The crowd was quiet, then The Embassy slid a chair into the ring. So, the referee kicked them out. While the ref took his time kicking out the managers, Veda Scott slid into the ring to stand up for Evans and beg Moose to back down. Evans tried to tell Veda to leave the ring, but Veda predictable gave Evans low blow. Moose speared Evans and it was good for the pin and the win.
WINNER: Moose at 7:38. This fell apart pretty quickly since the crowd didn't seem to care about Evans in the babyface role and they booked Moose to look pretty weak in the match. Poor booking. (n/a)
Post-match, Prince Nana took the mic and introduced the new group after roughly embracing Veda Scott. Meanwhile, the ref checked on R.D. Evans ringside.
Video Package: Jay Lethal vs. Matt Sydal (Evan Bourne) for the TV Title.
In-ring: Matt Sydal was introduced first as the TV Title challenger. Bodyguard Jay Diesel then walked out holding up Truth Martini's book of truth that led out Jay Lethal and Martini. Lethal, Martini, and Diesel slowly walked around ringside letting the crowd get in their boos.
6 -- ROH TV champion JAY LETHAL (w/Truth Martini) vs. MATT SYDAL -- ROH TV Title match
Sydal teased a Shooting Star Press early on, so Lethal bailed to the floor to talk things over with Martini. Back in the ring, Lethal cut off Sydal and stomped him over and over in the corner. And, Sydal's hair is already all over the place. Sydal tried to come back with a standing moonsault, but Lethal rolled away to the ring apron. So, Sydal kicked Lethal to the outside, then Diesel pulled Lethal out of harm's way when Sydal prepared for a top-rope move.
Back in the ring, Sydal finally got his standing moonsault, but only got a two count. Sydal tried to follow with a corner attack, but Lethal lifted Sydal into the air and Sydal crashed down onto the top rope. Sydal sold a leg injury, which Lethal went to work on. Sydal recovered from the "injury" and delivered leaping kick strikes, but only got a two count. Sydal followed with a sweeping leg drop for another nearfall.
Sydal tried to follow with a corner attack, but Lethal caught him in mid-air and dropped him with the Lethal Combination for a two count. Lethal, the heel, then climbed to the top rope to favorable "Randy Savage" chants. He did the Savage pose, Sydal blocked the attack, Lethal adjusted, and Lethal hit a neckbreaker. Lethal went back to the top and this time he nailed a top-rope elbow for a nearfall.
Next, Lethal called for the Lethal Injection, but Sydal ducked and sprung into Lethal with a head scissors. Sydal then nailed a top-rope knee smash before climbing to the top turnbuckle. Sydal nailed the Shooting Star Press for a clear three count, but Truth Martini pulled referee Todd Sinclair out of the ring to stop his count. Sydal kicked the book of truth into Martini's face, then Sydal climbed to the top rope to give Martini the SSP, but Lethal caught Sydal in mid-air with a cutter. Martini took the brunt of both moves, then Lethal smashed Sydal with the Lethal Injection for the pin and the win.
WINNER: Lethal at 15:03 to retain the TV Title. Lethal is good and the match was fine, but the crowd didn't invest in Sydal as the babyface challenger and there have been so much silliness thus far that the crowd mainly sat on their hands for the finish. The booking is so over-cooked tonight and the spots are running together that it's taking the crowd out of the action match by match. (**1/2)
In-ring: The New Japan duo of Alex Shelley and KUSHIDA made their way to the ring for the next match for the ROH Tag Titles. Kevin Kelly noted the relationship between ROH and New Japan will continue in 2015, then ROH tag champs ReDragon came out to defend the titles.
Live PPV Third Hour
7 -- ROH tag champs/IWGP Jr. Hvt. tag champs REDRAGON (KYLE O'REILLY & BOBBY FISH) vs. TIME SPLITTERS (ALEX SHELLEY & KUSHIDA) -- ROH Tag Title match
Handshakes all around to adhere to the Code of Honor. The crowd was into the action early on as both teams traded control. The tag champs eventually controlled Shelley while KUSHIDA waited for a tag. Shelley was finally prepared to tag in KUSHIDA, but O'Reilly ran around the ringside area to cut off the tag. Fish then regained control on Shelley. Hot tag to KUSHIDA, who cleaned house on the tag champs. KUSHIDA took it to the next level with a double German Suplex that sent the champs to the floor.
The action broke down on the floor, keeping the streak alive of every match containing outside-the-ring activity. KUSHIDA eventually came off the top with a flip dive onto the tag champs after Shelley set them up to take the blow. Back in the ring, KUSHIDA delivered a top-rope dropkick to O'Reilly for a very close two count. The tag champs responded with high/low to KUSHIDA for another nearfall.
All four men found themselves in the ring, but no pin resulted. In the chaos, O'Reilly caught KUSHIDA with a Triangle Choke submission, but Shelley broke it up with a top-rope stomp. No attempt to restore order as the match continued with all four men in the ring. O'Reilly and KUSHIDA eventually had a one-on-one battle that resulted in KUSHIDA superkicking the mouthpiece out of O'Reilly's mouth. But, O'Reilly responded with a rebound lariat into a brainbuster, but KUSHIDA kicked out of a pin.
ReDragon called for the end, and they combined for a kick into Brainbuster -Chasing the Dragon - but KUSHIDA kicked out again. O'Reilly followed right up with his armbar submission, Fish prevented Shelley from re-entering the ring to break it up, and KUSHIDA tapped out.
WINNERS: ReDragon via submission at 18:11 to retain the ROH Tag Titles. Strong match featuring four really good wrestlers with strong chemistry. The crowd invested for the most part, but the law of diminishing returns kicked in much earlier in this show with each big move and each high-flying spot receiving less and less of a reaction. (***1/2)
Video Package: Jay Briscoe vs. Adam Cole ROH World Title feud.
In-ring: Adam Cole was introduced first as the challenger for the main event. Ringside were two empty seats for Jay Briscoe's parents if they chose to take up Cole's offer. Jay Briscoe was then introduced as the defending champion. Once Jay hit the ring, several refs spilled out to separate the two wrestlers before the bell. Bobby Cruise then handled formal ring introductions for the anything-goes title match.
8 -- ROH World champion JAY BRISCOE vs. The Kingdom's ADAM COLE -- ROH World Title match -- Fight Without Honor
Once the bell sounded, Jay stalked Cole, who remained standing in the corner. Cole defiantly double-birded Jay, drawing some applause. Jay shook it off and nearly ended the match one minute in with a Jay Driller, but Cole kicked out just in time. Cole rolled to the floor to recover, but Jay followed out and beat up Cole ringside. The table that came into play during Elgin vs. Ciampa came into play here, as Jay placed Cole on the table and smashed him through the table with a flying attack.
Jay then pulled out a staple gun, but Cole smashed Jay across the face with a chair. Not just any chair, but the chair reserved for Papa Briscoe. Cole then tried to staple the piece of paper labeling the chair onto Jay's head. "You sick f---" chant from the crowd, followed by applause for the heel bashing the face champion with more weaponry. The match returned to the ring and the crowd picked up dueling "Man Up" vs. "Adam Cole" chants. This was followed by "Let's Go Briscoe" vs. "Adam Cole" chants. Cole tried a chair smash in the corner, but Jay whipped Cole face-first into the chair wedged in the corner.
Reset at 6:00. Jay came up bleeding from the forehead as Corino over-stressed Kingdom members Mike Bennett and Maria Kanellis 7,000 miles away. Cole set up two chairs in the ring, but Jay suplexed Cole onto the chairs. Jay then retrieved a Kendo Stick, but Cole stole it and cracked it over Jay's back repeatedly. Jay no-sold, so Cole KO'ed him with a stick shot to the face. Cole covered for a two count. Cole tried to follow with a figure-four leglock around the ringpost, but Jay shoved off and Cole smacked his head on the post. Cole went under the ring to sell the effects, then he resurfaced bleeding from the forehead.
Jay capitalized with headbutts and punches to open up Cole. Jay followed with a modified Camel Clutch, then he released the hold when medical staff came down to ringside to check on Cole. The crowd booed the presence of medical staff, then Jay beat up Cole to a pop. Jay slid Cole back into the ring and kicked him in the face. Neckbreaker followed for a two count.
At 14:00, Jay went under the ring to retrieve a table. Jay set it up ringside as Corino talked about Cole deserving the beating he's taking tonight. Jay then tried to suplex Cole off the top rope through the table, but Cole blocked and superkicked Jay down below through the table on the floor. The crowd popped for another table spot, ignoring whether the heel or face went through it. Cole then picked up the title belt and smashed Jay with it. Florida Key followed, but Jay kicked out of Cole's finisher. The crowd didn't buy it as the finish.
Reset at 17:30 with the crowd chanting for both wrestlers, then Jay came back with a Death Valley Driver that KO'ed Cole. Jay then went under the ring and retrieved a purple bag with thumbtacks and pushpins inside. Jay dumped the contents in the middle of the ring, but Cole low-blowed Jay. Cole then picked up a few of the tacks, shoved them in Jay's mouth, and superkicked him in the mouth for a two count. Another "You sick f---" chant at Cole.
Cole tried the Florida Key into the tacks, but Jay shoved off, kicked Cole in the face twice, tried a third, but Cole avoided, only to bounce the ropes and take a back-drop into the tacks. Cole sold the effects, then Jay followed right up with the Jay Driller, but Cole kicked out just before three.
Reset at 21:00 with Jay bringing the ROH Title belt into the ring to place right in front of Cole. Cole looked up at Jay, who then scooped up Cole and dropped him with the Jay Driller on the title belt. Jay covered and it was good for the pin and the win. Both men remained on the mat selling the effects of the match as the PPV signed off.
WINNER: Briscoe at 21:20 to retain the ROH World Title. A brutal match if that's your thing, but at least it ended on a symbolic note with the Jay Driller on the title belt they've been battling for possession over for two years. The chair shots to the head/face region really took away from the action, while pro wrestling storytelling continues to suffer from the crowd investing more in spots, brutality, and signature moves than a heel getting his and a face triumphing. (This isn't just ROH, but also WWE and TNA.) It doesn't help that the booking is inconsistent, leading to the audience picking their favorites and waiting for the spots they want to see to cheer and react. (***)
Next PPV: 13th Anniversary Show on March 1 from Las Vegas. The PPV signed off at 10:55 p.m. EST.
CM Punk appeared at the start of the UFC 181 post-fight press conference and talked more about signing with the company. After he spoke, he thanked the fighters for allowing him to talk to reporters before they came out for their post-fight questions. Below are some highlights:
* The deal was finalized on October 22nd, which is when he was completely free from WWE. Punk said signing with UFC was an easy decision. The deal had been in the works for a while. Punk was supposed to the "major announcement" for last month's press conference but the deal wasn't done in time.
* Punk said he is staying off Twitter and staying away from the negativity from fans for now.
* He talked about looking for a training camp and said he won't "cherry pick" his training partners.
WWE Diva AJ Lee posted the following about her husband CM Punk signing with UFC:
I'm the proudest wife in the world.
ESPN has an article up on CM Punk signing with UFC. UFC President Dana White confirmed that Punk is looking to fight at middleweight (185 pounds) but said he's open to 170 pounds also.
White said it could take six or seven months before Punk steps inside The Octagon. White said:
"He wanted to fight here. He wanted to give it a shot, so we gave him an opportunity. It's not like Brock Lesnar. We're not going to throw the kitchen sink at him. Lesnar had a wrestling background. (CM Punk) going to fight a guy who is 1-0, 1-1, 2-1 -- something like that. He's been coming to fights for a long time and after his WWE contract was up, he called me and said he wanted to give it a shot. I said, 'All right. We'll give you a shot.'"
We noted before that Michael Bisping has already called Punk out on Twitter. Here are other Twitter reactions from UFC stars:
Ronda Rousey: "WHA?!?!?! @CMPunk!!?!!!!?!! #cantwait"
Nate Diaz: "@ufc @CMPunk Why?"
As noted, CM Punk revealed at UFC 181 tonight that he has signed with the company. He has signed a multi-fight deal.
While UFC President Dana White mentioned that he and Punk would be talking this weekend at UFC 181, PWInsider reports that the two have been talking for some time and a deal was in the works before this weekend.
Punk noted during UFC 181 that he will be figuring out a training camp soon and has made several inquiries already. He will speak more about coming to UFC on the FOX Sports 1 post-show tonight.
As noted, Punk will be fighting at middleweight or welterweight. UFC's Michael Bisping, who is a middleweight, tweeted the following tonight about Punk:
CM Punk spoke with UFC announcer Joe Rogan at UFC 181 this weekend and revealed he has signed a deal with the leading MMA promotion. Punk said:
"I have a limited window like all fighters do, and I'm here for a fight. This is my new career 100%."
Punk said he will most likely be fighting at middleweight or welterweight but he will not be fighting at light heavyweight.
Ring of Honor rounded out the line-up for "Final Battle" by announcing a Four Corner Survival match with remaining wrestlers not scheduled for a match.
It will be Mark Briscoe vs. Caprice Coleman vs. Jimmy Jacobs vs. Hanson.
Current Final Battle Line-up
- ROH World Title match: Jay Briscoe vs. Adam Cole.
- ROH TV Title match: Jay Lethal vs. Matt Sydal.
- ROH Tag Title match: ReDragon (Bobby Fish & Kyle O'Reilly) vs. Time Splitters (Alex Shelley & KUSHIDA).
- Grudge match: Michael Elgin vs. Tommaso Ciampa.
- Revenge match: R.D. Evans vs. Moose.
- Mentor vs. Student: Roderick Strong vs. Adam Page.
- Six-Man Tag match: The Young Bucks & A.C.H. vs. The Addiction (Christopher Daniels & Kazarian) & Cedric Alexander.
- Four Corner Survival match: Mark Briscoe vs. Caprice Coleman vs. Jimmy Jacobs vs. Hanson.
[Torch photo credit Wade Keller (c) PWTorch.com]
C.M. Punk rejected Vince McMahon's apology from "Stone Cold" Steve Austin's WWE Network podcast during the second installment of Punk's podcast interview with Colt Cabana released Thursday.
After laying out the timeline of how his termination was handled by WWE, Punk said, "I'll address it. If the apology was sincere, you wouldn't use it as a publicity stunt on Austin's podcast. You have my phone number, you have my address, you could text, you could call, you could show up when you're a 10-minute f----- drive my house and apologize to me like a man. And that's the f'n reality of it."
Punk said he did not want Part 2 to turn into responding to what McMahon said on Austin's podcast, but he felt it was necessary after seeing how McMahon addressed WWE sending Punk termination papers on his wedding day in June.
"I appreciate the sentiment, but that was not a sincere apology. He knew about it since June. Why didn't he apologize in June if he really felt bad about it? He just wanted to make sure a TV camera was on him so he could damage-control it. 'Oh gosh, I'm really sorry.' Well, if you were, you would have apologized earlier. If you really wanted to talk to me, you would have responded after I got hold of everyone in the office," Punk said.
As part of explaining the timeline of events, Punk also addressed the sentiment from wrestlers like Chris Jericho who have gone away for a period of time before returning once things cooled off after a few years. Punk noted one big difference in his mind - Jericho wasn't cut on his wedding day.
"I can see his point of view, but I say, they didn't fire you on your wedding day. They didn't purposely and maliciously try to ruin a day that is supposed to be special to everybody. It's your wedding day," Punk said before addressing the notion that the timing was a coincidence.
"I don't want to hear, 'Oh, it's a coincidence. Oh, the lawyers didn't talk to Talent Relations.' I talked to Hunter on the 11th, on the 13th FedEx'ed overnight I got a document that was dated the 12th. My wife (A.J. Lee) asked for that time off so that she could (a) get married, (b) go on her honeymoon. The weekend after her honeymoon, she was back on TV. I don't want to hear, 'Oh it was a coincidence.' ... That's the f------- timeline, ladies and gentlemen. I was sick and hurt, and sick & tired, and burnt out, and I walked. And, I can do that because I'm an independent contractor."
The timeline extends to this fall season, especially as it relates to why Punk decided to record the podcast now to tell his story.
"I was fired on my wedding day (June 13), I got my settlement signed papers on my birthday (October 26), and I gave back to the fans on Thanksgiving (November 27)." Punk said the only reason why they could not record the podcast sooner is because Cabana was in Japan in October, then Punk was in Los Angeles in early November. Punk said he was ready to record the podcast right away to get his story out there and move on with his life.
As for why he's able to tell his story without fear of legal ramifications from WWE, Punk said he feels no legal threat from WWE after they settled the terms of his exit.
"If they (talent contracts) were (worth something), they wouldn't have settled. They would have held me over a f------barrel and I wouldn't be doing this podcast. I waited until all the legal b.s. was out of the way, I never sued them, it was all about a settlement. Lawyers didn't jam anything up; they expedited the process. Now I'm a free guy," Punk said. "Look at (Alberto) Del Rio, bless his heart. I love the guy. He's wrestling other places now. You know why? You can't put a no-compete clause on an independent contractor. Period."
[ LINK: Part 2 of Punk's podcast HERE ]
On the second installment of C.M. Punk's podcast interview with Colt Cabana, Punk revealed that The Rock texted him after catching flak from Punk fans.
The flak was related to Punk's descriptions of how the WrestleMania 29 scenario unfolded with Punk not wanting to drop the title to Rock at the 2013 Royal Rumble, then trying to pitch a three-way match with Rock and John Cena for the WM29 main event, which management also turned down.
Punk noted in the second podcast that he didn't think he said anything negative about Rock when recalling his conversations with management as his frustration was reaching a boiling point in 2013.
- Punk on the first podcast: "I dropped the title to Rock (at the 2013 Rumble). I do a re-match with Rock (at the Chamber). And then it's WrestleMania and I told them, 'I'm peacing out after this. Because this is getting ridiculous.' 'Oh, I disagree, Phil, you're going to be the hottest heel after WrestleMania,' (Vince McMahon said). I was like, 'Explain to me how losing to a 45-year-old man who wrestles once per year is going to make me the hottest heel in the world.' No disrespect. Explain to me how that works. I'm the one who's still going to be here the next day. Rock beats me, Rock leaves. Undertaker beats me, Undertaker leaves. I wrestled that match with Taker with the biggest chip on my shoulder because I knew the match was going to be better than Hunter-Brock and Rock-Cena."
- Punk on the second podcast: "I understand fan's passion. You know, it was Thanksgiving - I'm hanging out with the sisters, I'm eating turkey, and at the end of the night, I grab my phone and Rock texted me. He's like, 'Just opened up my Twitter, and all your fans are mad at me. What the f--- happened?' I text back, 'Oh, I did this podcast, explained why I left,' and I was like, 'I don't think I said negative about you. But, I probably discussed working with you and trying to remain working with you so I could get a WrestleMania main event out of it.' I just talked about that: 'People are mad that I dropped the title to you, but I didn't say anything negative about you.' And he was super cool about it."
[ LINK: Part 2 of Punk's podcast HERE ]
WWE Raw on Monday, December 1 fell to a 2.79 rating, erasing gains from last week's post-Survivor Series episode.
Raw was down nine percent from a season-high 3.07 rating, returning to the pre-Survivor Series levels rounding to a 2.8 rating.
- Raw averaged 3.883 million viewers, down 8.5 percent from last week's post-Survivor Series audience.
Hourly Break Down: 4.227 million first hour viewers, decline to 3.952 million second hour viewers, and a sharp 12 percent decline to 3.471 million third hour viewers.
It was the least-watched third hour since May 26 during the post-WrestleMania lull period.
- In the demographic ratings, Raw declined one-tenth of a rating in m18-49 & m12-34, but stayed even with last week in m18-34. There was a more significant drop-off among adults 18-34 & 18-49.
On cable TV Monday night, Raw ranked #2 in overall viewers and key demos behind Monday Night Football on ESPN, which drew a pedestrian 11.7 million viewers for football.
-- Raw's performance looks better compared to the same week the past two years - the December 2, 2013 Raw drew a 2.65 rating and the Dec. 3, 2012 Raw drew a 2.55 rating.
Caldwell's Analysis: In a storyline context, WWE advertised major changes to Raw once top heels The Authority were kicked out of power, but two weeks later the product looks and feels exactly the same, now with a laptop "controlling Raw" and the mid-card still stuck in a rut. From the first hour of Raw last week (4.734 million viewers) to the third hour of Raw this week (3.471 million viewers), Raw has lost 1.3 million viewers (27 percent drop-off).
TNA released Wednesday a podcast interview with TNA president Dixie Carter discussing the company's business plans moving forward. Jeremy Borash hosted the podcast.
-- KURT ANGLE: Carter sold not being aware that Angle announced that he has re-signed with TNA. "Well, I guess I'll consider that a signed deal then," Carter said. "It's done, yeah, Kurt's back... really? Okay. Good. I love that."
Carter said she wants Angle to retire in TNA, then be able to use him behind-the-scenes to help the company grow. As for 2015, Carter said she hopes Angle can "do some new and exciting things" and represent TNA "on different levels that he's done a little bit in the past."
-- 2014: Carter called it a year she's "really proud of." "We did a lot of things right," Carter claimed. She picked out the move to the six-sides ring after a fan vote (which did not make a difference in ratings). Carter continued, "It was a transitional year. The last half-of-the-year, I was in negotiating mode with a lot of different networks taking a lot of different meetings. That's always a little bit different year for me personally, but from what people saw, I'm proud. It was a good year."
-- SPIKE TV: Carter said she approached Spike TV president Kevin Kay at the beginning of the year to discuss "having something different" and not having "status quo going into a new deal." Carter said she wanted more than just "the two-hour Impact." Carter added, "We've got to grow our brand and do some things differently and really shake it up. That's the main reason."
Carter said that was the tone of her conversation with other networks. "I'm not interested in having somebody pick up our two-hour show; I'm interested in someone being a partner on a much bigger level. This company needed that; I think we deserved it."
As for Spike going forward, Carter said she hopes to stay connected through wrestlers continuing to fight for Bellator MMA on Spike.
-- DESTINATION AMERICA: Carter acknowledged that moving from Spike to a smaller channel seems crazy, but she claimed to have big plans in the work with Discovery Communications that go beyond one show on Dest. America.
"Obviously, it's a smaller channel. And if it was just looked at from an apples-to-apples standpoint on that channel vs. Spike, you would look at me like I'm crazy for losing that many households. And, that is our challenge on the network," Carter said.
"But, they are part of Discovery Communications and from the top-down, number one, they are committed, and one of their top priorities is growing Destination America... We are such a priority., that network is such a priority, and we are such a priority within that network. The support that they are promising across all of their networks..."
Carter said the focus is not just a U.S. TV deal, but growing TNA's reach globally through an international push. She also hyped new initiatives in India and U.K. to reach two of their bigger markets, including a different approach to shooting television in the U.K. in January.
Carter added that there will be new programming and "exciting changes" related to how Discovery "programs Impact." She said, "It's so much bigger than just an Impact deal on one network. And that's what I'm excited for everybody to start hearing just how big this, and let it unfold. Look, if we have success, there is no bigger deal than we could have done."
-- 2015: Carter said she feels the support of talent and management going forward. "How different it's going to be," Carter said of a new work environment with Discovery. "A lot of announcements are coming. I really mean it."
Carter said she cannot announce anything yet about changes to the TV product, the way it's shot, or the talent roster, but she advertised that changes are "real substantive" with some "real meat" to the changes TNA wants to make.
Carter also credited executive John Gaburick for finding new talent that will be spotlighted in 2015. She noted that Spike was supportive of TNA "taking a step back to take a step forward in the future" with the roster.
- NYC TV TAPINGS: As for the first set of Impact tapings for Destination America in January, Carter hyped "big things planned" and "surprises." She said that some things will be announced in the next few days.
Caldwell's Analysis: From Spike TV's perspective, it did not make sense for them to give TNA more programming when TNA's ratings were declining on the programming they already had. Impact went from a 1.17 ratings average in 2011 to 1.07 rating in 2012 to 1.05 rating in 2013 leading into this year when negotiations would have begun. On Thursdays this year, Impact fell to a 1.00 rating. On Wednesdays, Impact fell to a 0.81 rating. Perhaps things will be different with a new partner who has unspecified plans for TNA programming, but Impact was losing steam on Spike over a period of years.
[ LINK: Audio HERE ]
The main event of WWE's TLC PPV will be John Cena vs. Seth Rollins in a Tables match.
The stipulation is that if Cena loses, he is no longer #1 contender to the WWE World Hvt. Title held by Brock Lesnar.
It also means Lesnar is not booked for the PPV, which was foreshadowed when WWE pulled Lesnar from the advertised roster for next Monday's Raw leading into the PPV.
Updated TLC PPV Line-up
-- Tables match: John Cena vs. Seth Rollins. If Cena loses, he is no longer #1 contender to the WWE World Hvt. Title held by Brock Lesnar.
-- TLC match: Dean Ambrose vs. Bray Wyatt.
-- Chairs match: Ryback vs. Kane.
-- Tag Title match: The Miz & Damien Sandow vs. The Usos.
WWE Raw TV Results December 1, 2014 - Episode #1,122 Live in Tulsa, Okla. Report by James Caldwell (@JCTorch), PWTorch assistant editor
- The Card: More fall-out from Survivor Series and build-up to TLC, the Anonymous Raw GM bit continuing, and more to be announced. Announced on the pre-show - a Tag Turmoil #1 contender match with Goldust & Rhodes Bros., the New Day faction, The Usos, Cesaro & Tyson Kidd, and Adam Rose & The Bunny. No Los Matadores or Slater Gator.
Live Raw on USA Network
Raw opened with the sound of the anonymous Raw GM. Michael Cole was at the podium to read an email from the GM. The GM is back and not happy. "WWE needs me," the GM said. Therefore, the GM would like to make the following announcements. Before any announcements could be made, John Cena's music interrupted.
Cena bounced down to the ring and said this Board of Directors really has their stuff together because running the show tonight is ... the anonymous Raw GM (Cena said with disdain). Cena said one thing the GM and their champion, Brock Lesnar, have in common is they show up once a year. Cena then celebrated The Authority being gone and "never coming back."
Cena noted at Survivor Series eight days ago, Big Show turned on them and joined Team Authority, Triple H tried every under-handed tactic, his teammates survived, and now he has the question of why his teammates risked everything at Survivor Series.
The GM chime interrupted. Cena hopped off the ring apron to stare down Cole, who said he's merely a spokesman and not the GM. Cena stepped to the podium and said he will not let the most important victory in WWE history lead to Raw being handed over to a nameless, faceless, heartless computer. So, he slowly closed the cover on the laptop. And that was it?
Seth Rollins's music interrupted. Rollins, joined by Joey Mercury and Jamie Noble, marched down to the ring to run down Cena. He said he's really good at bad jokes and waving his hand in front of his face like a little kid. Cena retorted he does that right before he beats Rollins. Rollins continued that he's really good at getting half of this crowd to tell him he sucks on a nightly basis. Pause for boos and cheers and chants. "You Sold Out" chant at Rollins instead of the dueling Cena chant.
"But, you know what you're really great at? Taking credit. Particularly taking credit that you are not due," Rollins said. He said Cena did not win anything at Survivor Series, and he eliminated Cena. And, he would have been the sole survivor and The Authority would still be in power if not for one man - Sting. Cheers. Cena said it was exciting to see Sting, but Rollins seemed to forget that Team Cena had one man left, and he was out-numbered three-to-one. And, this man eliminated Seth Rollins, Dolph Ziggler. Cena said he's here to give that man credit.
Rollins said that's fine and all, but he's really out here to ask this question - is WWE really better off without The Authority in power? "Yes!" chants from the crowd. Rollins tried to calm everyone down. Honestly now. Rollins said Cena said it himself that the Board of Directors put the Anonymous Raw GM in charge. Cena joked back that he's currently on a leave of absence (after he shut the laptop). Rollins said it could be anyone -JBL, even Batista (boos). Rollins said Batista has proven he's terrible at wrestling and acting, so maybe he would make a good GM. How about Eric Bischoff? Some cheers, interestingly.
Rollins suggested there might be a new mystery GM every week. Cena asked what his point is. Rollins replied that Cena is the only one with power to restore The Authority, otherwise the show will devolve into utter chaos. Cena called that awful bossy of him, but he is no place to bark orders at him. Cena said his trump card is gone, The Authority is fired, and they are not coming back.
[Q2] Cena walked to the ring to tell Rollins face-to-face that he is just a normal dude who has to earn everything instead of getting handed everything by Triple H and Stephanie McMahon. Cena said he has the power to bring The Authority back, then told Rollins to ask him nicely. Rollins thought it over for a long time, then comically asked, 'Will you please bring back The Authority?" Cena said he doesn't believe him, then told Seth to get down on one knee.
Suddenly, the Raw GM chime sounded. Didn't Cena magically shut off the laptop? Cena told Rollins to ignore the computer since it's using America On-line anyways. Cole interrupted from the laptop and announced Cena vs. Rollins in a Tables match at the TLC PPV. No Brock Lesnar. The GM email added that if Cena loses at TLC, he will no longer be the #1 contender to the WWE Title. Cena frowned and turned to leave the ring, but Rollins attacked him from behind. Kane then hit the ring to join Rollins taking out Cena. No sign of Dolph Ziggler to make the save.
Rollins then went under the ring to retrieve a table. Cole tried to read the entire email, which was about who would be #1 contender if Cena loses, but Ryback's music interrupted. Ryback stormed the ring and took out Rollins Goldberg-style in Goldberg's hometown. But, Kane smashed Ryback from behind with chair shots.
Suddenly, Erick Rowan's music played. Rowan marched down to the ring and big-booted Kane in the face. Rowan then hit the ring and cleared Noble from the ring. Rollins tried to get at Rowan, but Rowan manhandled him. Suddenly, Big Show hit the ring to boos and smashed Rowan from behind. Show cleared Rowan from the ring, then punted him in the gut. Show re-arranged the steel steps, then pounded the steps into Rowan's face.
Suddenly, Dolph Ziggler's music played. Ziggler charged down to the ring, avoided Show, and posted him into the ringpost. Ziggler then grabbed a ladder from under the ring, but Luke Harper came down to ringside and blindsided Ziggler. Harper smashed the ladder into Ziggler on the outside. Meanwhile, back in the ring, Cena avoided a table delivery by Rollins. Harper then uppercut Cena and Show followed up with a KO Punch to Cena. Shrieks and screams from the pro-Cena fans.
Rollins, Kane, Show, Harper, and J&J Security stood over Cena, then Rollins and J&J did The Shield's triple powerbomb spot sending Cena through a table. The audible pro-Cena fans expressed anger over the events as Raw cut to break.
THE NEWS: Cena vs. Rollins in a tables match was made for TLC; if Cena loses, he is no longer #1 contender to the WWE Title and a new #1 contender will be determined, but the email was not completed to announce the means.
JC'S ANALYSIS: One thing you can count on with the Anonymous Raw GM bit is plenty of awkward pauses, wasted time, and lack of logic. Overall, it came across like "oh crap, there's only two weeks until TLC," prompting a lot of potential PPV matches to be hyped in one segment.
[Commercial Break at 8:22]
Back from break, John Cena was being helped down the entrance ramp with a dazed look on his face. Ryback, Dolph Ziggler, and Erick Rowan were also helped up the ramp.
Announcers: Cole, Jerry Lawler, and JBL were shown on-camera to announce the Raw GM's booking plans for the show: Big Show vs. Erick Rowan and Cena & Ziggler & Ryback vs. Rollins & Harper & Kane in a six-man tag match.
In-ring: Lilian Garcia was standing by for an on-camera to explain gauntlet-style rules for the Tag Turmoil match. Then, Cole announced that the winning team will face The Miz & Damien Sandow for the Tag Titles at TLC in two weeks.
Out first were the Rhodes Bros. WWE then cut to a vignette of New Day dancing and "having fun." Cole noted they debuted Friday on Smackdown, and they make their Raw debut next.
[Q3] [Commercial Break at 8:30]
Back from break, the Rhodes Bros. were hanging out in the ring. The New Day theme then played to bring out Kofi Kingston dancing and clapping. Xavier Woods as out next, followed by Big E. waving a towel. Big E. was over-the-top trying to fire up the crowd and his teammates. All three danced and clapped in the ring, then Cole noted they're not deciding on which two team members will wrestle until they get in the ring so their opponents cannot scout. JBL called that not fair. Xavier was the odd-man out.
1 -- TAG TEAM TURMOIL GAUNTLET MATCH -- Winning team is #1 contenders to the Tag Titles
1a -- RHODES BROS. ("STARDUST" CODY RHODES & GOLDUST) vs. NEW DAY (KOFI KINGSTON & BIG E. w/Xavier Woods)
Kofi and Big E. combined for a top-rope power combination on Cody, which Cole called the Midnight Hour. It was good for a three count before Goldust could break up the pin.
WINNERS: Kofi & Big E. at 1:36; Rhodes Bros. eliminated. Very short start to the New Day vs. Rhodes Bros. feud from Smackdown.
After the elimination, Cesaro's music brought out Cesaro along with Tyson Kidd and his wife, Natalya. Raw cut to break before they hit the ring.
[Commercial Break at 8:36]
1b -- NEW DAY (KOFI KINGSTON & BIG E. w/Xavier Woods) vs. CESARO & TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya)
The second match in the series was joined in progress. Cole said Kidd picked out the strongest wrestler in WWE to join him, believing he's the quickest. Kidd got a little cocky and lost control on Kofi. Big E. came in hot with power offense, then dropped Kidd with a running splash. Big E. fired himself up, then scooped up Kidd for the Big Ending, but Cesaro interfered. Big E. dumped both men to the ring apron, then bounced them to the floor.
Tag to Kofi, who flew over Big E. with a flying splash to the opponents on the floor. Back in the ring, Kofi smashed Kidd, but Cody and Goldust ran down to ringside and attacked Xavier, distracting Kofi. Kidd rolled up Kidd from behind for the pinfall.
WINNERS: Kidd & Cesaro at 2:40; New Day eliminated. And, New Day vs. Rhodes Bros. is officially a feud.
1c -- CESARO & TYSON KIDD (w/Natalya) vs. THE USOS
In the chaos of the how the previous match ended, the Usos stormed the ring to start the next match with Cesaro and Kidd. Usos dominated early on, but Kidd used Natalya as a shield to distract un Uso. This allowed Cesaro to suplex Uso for a close two count heading to break.
[Q4] [Commercial Break at 8:45]
Back from break, Cesaro was working on Uso with a headlock. Tag to Kidd, who lost control and Jimmy Uso tagged in. Samoan Drop, then Jey clotheslined Cesaro out of the ring to the floor. Kidd then tried to involve Natalya, allowing Kidd to smash Uso, but Uso came back with a superkick to the mush. Tag to Jey, who came off the top with a Superfly Splash. JBL declared the Usos the #1 contenders ... with one more team to go.
WINNERS: Usos at 7:36.
Adam Rose's music played to bring out Rose, The Bunny, and the entourage for the final match in the gauntlet. JBL said he spoke too soon.
1d -- THE USOS vs. ADAM ROSE & THE BUNNY
Once the match started, WWE cut backstage to show Naomi watching on a monitor. Cole filled in the blanks that if you watch Total Divas, you know Naomi is married to Jimmy Uso (trying to tie in with Kidd & Natalya). In the ring, Rose started for his team, but The Bunny wanted to tag in. Rose and Bunny argued, so Uso superkicked them into each other before nailing a Superfly Splash for the win.
WINNERS: Usos at 1:55 to become #1 contenders to the Tag Titles.
Backstage: Naomi celebrated The Usos winning, then Tag Champs Miz & Damien Sandow walked up to Naomi. Miz tried to hit on Naomi, then gave her the name of a Hollywood producer. Sandow mimicked Miz by handing over an invisible card.
Backstage: A black limo pulled up in the parking garage. Out came Mr. McMahon on his cell phone. McMahon put the phone away and kept walking.
[Commercial Break at 8:56]
[Q5 -- second hour] Announcement: Seth Green is returning to Raw to guest-host the Slammys next week. Cole hyped the WWE App as the only way to participate in voting.
Earlier Tonight: Big Show and Erick Rowan brawled.
Backstage: Tom Phillips brought in Rowan to ask if he regrets targeting Big Show. Rowan, hiding behind his sheep mask, remained quiet. Phillips, undeterred, introduced research that Rowan has a big IQ and is an expert in many fields. So, why is he targeting Big Show? "He's a bully," Rowan declared, then handed Phillips a completed Rubik's Cube.
In-ring: Big Show's music played. Show cut off his music and said he is a bully. That's right. Because he can be. Show asked the crowd if they remember all the people who have betrayed him. "You sold out on me!" Show said. He said he doesn't care about earning respect, just hurting people now. Yep, the same promo after the previous 20 heel turns. Erick Rowan's music answered Show for the first singles match of the show.
2 -- BIG SHOW vs. ERICK ROWAN
Show knocked down Rowan, then kicked him in the chest. Show had an opening for a KO Punch, but he opted for a short-arm clothesline. Show wrapped his arms around Rowan's neck with a Cobra Clutch-like move. Meanwhile, the announcers debated a "Big Red" nickname for Rowan based on the color of his beard. Rowan fought out of the hold, then fought back with clubbing blows before clotheslining Show over the top rope to the floor.
On the outside, Rowan clubbed Show across the back before headbutting him. But, Show reversed a whip that sent Rowan into the ring steps. Show then scooped up the ring steps and dropped them across Rowan's back. Referee Rudy Charles called for a DQ, ending Show's night in a loss. Show waked away proud of himself as Rowan sold the effects on the floor.
WINNER: Rowan via DQ at 4:19.
Still to come: Cena & Ryback & Rowan (not Ziggler?) vs. Kane, Rollins, and Luke Harper. The graphic showed Rowan instead of Dolph Ziggler.
Backstage: McMahon approached two men dressed in strange costumes. He didn't have the words, then kept walking. Renee Young approached McMahon for thoughts on the night, but McMahon cut her off and plugged his appearance with Stone Cold on WWE Network tonight after Raw. McMahon growled that it's going to be fun.
Announcers: Cole, Lawler, and JBL hyped the Network podcast after Raw, then transitioned to the Nikki Bella vs. A.J. Lee feud. Therefore, tonight it's the Bellas vs. A.J. and a partner to be voted on. The options are Natalya, Naomi, or Alicia Fox.
[Commercial Break at 9:12]
[Q6] In-ring: Rosa Mendes was standing by to dance for Fandango, who emerged on-stage before charging down to the ring to complete the dance with Rosa. Jack Swagger's music interrupted to bring out Swagger in his home state. No sign of Swagger, though. They re-started the music, but still no sign. Fandango was taken aback by this.
Suddenly, WWE cut backstage to show Zeb Colter down on the ground clutching his knee. Swagger called for a doctor before asking who did this. Back in the ring, Fandango sold amusement over what happened to his opposition. Awkward pause back in the ring, then Lilian Garcia announced the winner by forfeit... But, Rosa took the mic and weirdly announced Fandango as the winner.
3 -- FANDANGO vs. JACK SWAGGER (w/Zeb Colter)
WINNER: Fandango via forfeit. It wasn't clear whether Fandango was supposed to be likable or unlikable upon his return, but facing babyface Swagger would have cleared things up. And, so, indifference remains the emotion.
Post-match: Rusev's music played. The U.S. champ and Lana marched down to the ring heading to break.
[Commercial Break at 9:20]
Last Monday: Jack Swagger and Rusev scrapped after Sgt. Slaughter tried to lead Rusev and Lana in the Pledge of Allegiance.
Back live, Cole speculated on whether Rusev had something to do with Zeb Colter being taken out backstage. JBL jumped on that accusation, then Lana spoke in the ring. Lana said that Americans pride themselves on freedom, but last week Rusev was ordered to recite "your pathetic Pledge of Allegiance." Not only did Rusev bravely refuse, he was punished for his valor. And then forced to enter in the battle royal on Smackdown. But, Rusev overcame the odds and retained the U.S. Title.
Lana told everyone to learn that Rusev is the greatest U.S. champion that this "pathetic excuse for a superpower has ever seen." Rusev spoke next that anyone who foolishly challenges him will be crushed. And, the same to those who do not listen, like Zeb Colter. Lawler told JBL that sounds like the answer.
Lana spoke next with demands. She demanded everyone stand for a true pledge of allegiance, then the giant Russian flag fell from the ceiling. Lana pledged allegiance to the flag of the Russian Federation and Mother Russia, one nation under Putin, and Rusev for all.
Jack Swagger's music interrupted and Swagger stormed the ring to attack Rusev. But, Rusev overpowered Swagger with clubbing blows. The scrap moved to the floor, where Swagger got the better of Rusev by slamming him into the guardrail. Referees eventually spilled out to separate the two wrestlers. Swagger broke free and tackled Rusev on the entrance ramp. Swagger was eventually subdued, so Rusev and Lana took off to the top of the stage.
Still to come: The Bellas vs. A.J. Lee and a partner voted on via App vote.
[Q7] [Commercial Break at 9:30]
Video Game plug: WWE hyped a Sting vs. Taker fantasy match-up in the "WWE 2K15" video game.
In-ring: The Miz's music played to bring out WWE tag champs The Miz and Damien Sandow. It's singles action for Sandow, who held replica Tag Title belts on the way to the ring. Already in the ring was Fernando of Los Matadores.
Earlier Tonight: El Torito ran circles around Miz and Sandow on the Raw pre-show.
4 --WWE tag champion DAMIEN SANDOW (w/WWE tag champ The Miz) vs. FERNANDO (w/Diego and El Torito)
Miz joined commentary to discuss their Tag Title defense against The Usos at TLC in two weeks. In the ring, Sandow ran over Fernando with a lariat into Miz's Reality Check. Sandow kipped up looking for cheers, then rolled into the figure-four leglock. Ric Flair "Whoos!" from the crowd, then Fernando tapped out.
WINNER: Sandow via submission at 2:25. This seemed like a dry run to rest Sandow in a straight-up babyface role not being set up by Miz in tag matches. At this point, the act still needs to be set up until Sandow actually breaks free from Miz to springboard into a real face role.
Post-match: Jimmy Uso walked right down to ringside and straight slapped Miz in the face. "Stay away from my wife!" Uso shouted down at Miz, who sold an injury to the money-maker. The slap was enhanced by Uso slapping Miz right next to the microphone on Miz's headset, creating a very loud noise. The very angry Uso then marched back to the back before Sandow joined Miz to sell the effects of the slap.
Still to come: Ziggler was back in the graphic with Cena and Ryback against Harper, Rollins, and Kane in the six-man tag main event.
Suddenly, the Wyatt interruption played. Bray Wyatt appeared on the video screen to tell Tulsa that he's here. Bray blew out his lantern and Raw cut to break.
[Commercial Break at 9:40]
Tomorrow night: Jimmy Uso vs. The Miz on Main Event.
[Q8] In-ring: R-Truth was standing by for singles action. Out came Bray Wyatt as the opposition.
5 -- BRAY WYATT vs. R-TRUTH
Bray dominated early on, then called out to Dean Ambrose. Bray slowed the pace before Cole completed the email from almost two hours ago that if Cena loses to Rollins at TLC, a new #1 contender to the WWE Title will be named at a later date. In other words, the anonymous Raw GM isn't planning ahead. Truth teased a comeback at 2:45, but Bray avoided a scissors kick and planted Truth into the mat.
Bray rolled Truth to the mat, then kind of threw Truth down onto the ring apron while landing a forearm to the back. Back in the ring, Bray shook his foot like Nakamura, then hung upside down and crab-walked toward Truth for Sister Abigail. It was good for the pin and the win.
WINNER: Wyatt at 4:21. Basic squash match to set up Bray vs. Ambrose at the PPV.
Post-match, Bray went under the ring to retrieve a bunch of chairs, which he chucked into the ring while shouting for Dean Ambrose to join him. Bray retrieved more weaponry as Raw cut to break.
[Commercial Break at 9:52]
Bray-Dean Brawl
Back from break, Bray Wyatt was sitting beneath a ladder in a darkened arena. Bray talked about the Biblical story of Jacob and his ladder. He talked about the ladder being the stairway to heaven and his Maker. Bray said Jacob was to lead his people to safety, and He would never leave Jacobs's side. Bray cackled to himself. He said he, too, dreams of this great ladder, but his dreams are a little different. In his dreams, he ascends the ladder and looks down at the people He has created with disdain. And, the insects just like Dean Ambrose. Bray repeated "tables, ladders, and chairs" over and over...
Suddenly, Dean Ambrose's music interrupted, the lights came up, and Dean stomped down to ringside. Bray grabbed Bray to fight on the outside, then Dean re-arranged furniture on the floor. Dean climbed a ladder to splash Bray on the announce table, but referees spilled out to cut out Dean. Bray started to leave, but Dean grabbed him to continue the fight. Refs finally separated Dean as Bray stumbled away.
[Q9 -- third hour] Dean Ambrose jumped into the ring and surveyed the weapons in the ring. Also in the ring was Bray's "sacred rocking chair," as described by Cole. Dean destroyed the rocking chair. Bray freaked out, acting as if the rocking chair had magical powers like Undertaker's urn. Cole said Bray has shown vulnerability for the first time and Dean has gotten under Bray's skin. On the stage, Bray sat down on the ground and stared straight ahead in shock and disbelief.
Announcers: Cole and Co. recapped earlier events, then flashed back to the opening segment when Michael Cole read an email from the Raw GM that if Cena loses to Rollins at TLC, he will no longer be #1 contender to the WWE Title.
Still to come: Cena & Ziggler & Ryback vs. Rollins & Harper & Kane in a six-man tag.
In-ring: The Bellas's music played to bring out Divas champion Nikki and Brie Bella. Indifference from the crowd still trying to process why Brie is willingly teaming with Nikki. Up next, WWE reveals A.J.'s tag partner against the Bellas.
[Commercial Break at 10:04]
Back from break, A.J. Lee's music [;ayed. A.J. skipped right down to the announce table and leaned against the table to wait for Jerry Lawler to stand up and announce A.J.'s tag partner. The winner was Naomi with 48 percent, followed by 32 percent for Natalya. Cole noted A.J. looked indifferent at the selection.
6 -- THE BELLAS (Divas champion NIKKI BELLA & BRIE BELLA) vs. A.J. LEE & NAOMI
Once the bell sounded, the obligatory "C-M Punk" chants started up. Meanwhile, Brie and Nikki randomly both started the match against Naomi. Brie eventually bailed to the ring apron as Nikki worked over Naomi.
A.J. eventually tagged in and cleared Brie from the ring apron before dropping Nikki with a Tornado DDT for a two count. Chaos in the ring, then A.J. trapped Nikki with the Black Widow for a tap-out win. Post-match, Nikki angrily took back her Divas Title as Brie helped her sister recover.
WINNERS: A.J. & Naomi via submission at 3:25.
[Q10] Backstage: A Christmas tree was shown after Cole said "Saint Mick" was standing by. It was Santa Mick Foley Claus plugging WWE Shop merchandise for holiday shopping season. Apparently Foley's daughter, Noelle Foley, was Mick's helper for the bit.
[Commercial Break at 10:17]
This Friday on Smackdown: U.S. champion Rusev vs. Dean Ambrose. Apparently it's non-title.
Announcers: Cole and Co. recapped the Cena-Rollins stipulation for TLC.
Paul Heyman Resurfaces
Cole then brought in Paul Heyman on the video screen from WWE Network HQ. Heyman responded to John Cena saying Lesnar only shows up "once per year." Heyman took exception, saying Christmas would not be special if it happened every day. He said Lesnar is must-see, special, and can't-miss. He said if Cena gets by Rollins at TLC, he will have to face a rested, ready, trained Lesnar.
But, what if Cena loses? The possibility of other contenders intrigues Lesnar. Heyman said maybe it will be Seth Rollins, who, by the way, is on their hit list for the Curb Stomp at Night of Champions. Heyman rescinded his acceptance of Rollins's apology now that he can't hide behind The Authority. What about The Undertaker? Heyman said Taker hasn't been heard from since Lesnar destroyed him at WrestleMania. Or, Sting? The crowd cheered. Heyman said they wouldn't even have to advertise it as a retirement match because Brock would retire him.
Heyman re-directed to Cole, saying the person who holds the gold has the power, and vice versa. He said Lesnar is all-powerful with no more authority, and he awaits Cena's fate at TLC. Once Heyman wrapped up, Cena's music played to bring out Cena in a different blue t-shirt for the main event.
[Commercial Break at 10:27]
[Q11] Dolph Ziggler, then Ryback made their entrances to join Cena in the ring. Seth Rollins's music then brought out Rollins flanked by Jamie Noble and Joey Mercury. Kane was out next, followed by IC champion Luke Harper.
7 -- JOHN CENA & DOLPH ZIGGLER & RYBACK vs. IC champion LUKE HARPER & MITB holder SETH ROLLINS & KANE (w/Joey Mercury and Jamie Noble) -- six-man tag match
The bell sounded 25 minutes before the top of the hour, setting up a lengthy match and likely a post-match angle. Cena went for an early STF on Rollins, but Harper broke it up. Cena and Harper battled for a bit, then Ziggler tagged in for a Double Dragons Dropkick on Harper. JBL offered a Rock 'N Roll Express shout-out.
Ryback and Kane tagged in next for a mid-ring battle. But, Kane quickly gave way to Harper. Ryback over-powered Harper, tried a vertical suplex, and then tried again. This time, Ryback got Harper in the air. He held him there for a good five seconds, then the lights suddenly went out. Actually, it was Raw suddenly cutting to break with Ryback mid-delayed suplex and just about to drop Harper to the mat. That was weird.
[Commercial Break at 10:41]
[Q12] Back from break, Ryback re-executed the vertical suplex. No delay on the vertical suplex this time, as he was probably worn out from the pre-commercial attempt. Ryback then tagged out to Ziggler. Harper took control on Ziggler, though, and executed a vertical suplex in Ryback's face. Tags around the horn wore down Ziggler as JBL told Ziggler he should quit and save his career.
Rollins missed a corner attack and Ziggler finally made the hot tag to Cena. Cena came in hot on Rollins with the Five Knuckle Shuffle, then teased an AA, but Harper hit the ring. AA to Harper, then Kane entered the ring and Ryback joined Cena for a double suplex to Kane. But, J&J attacked Cena behind the ref's back, allowing Rollins to get a nearfall when the ref turned around. Cena sold being in trouble heading to break.
[Commercial Break at 10:51]
Back from break, Kane was working on Cena. Cena snapped off a dropkick, but Harper tagged in to cut off Cena from making a tag. Tags around the horn wore down Cena as Ryback and Ziggler patiently waited for a tag. Rollins did a little too much trash-talking, prompting Cena to punch him in the face. But, Rollins cut off a tag with a knock-down clothesline.
[Q13 -- over-run] Cena finally made his corner to tag in Ziggler at the top of the hour. Chaos broke out moments later with finishers flying. Harper dropped Ziggler with a Black Hole Slam, but Ziggler kicked out of a pin. Harper did not follow up, allowing Ziggler to quick-pin Harper for a sudden three count.
WINNERS: Team Ziggler at 25:17. Anti-climatic finish to a long, drawn-out main event that seemed inconsequential based on the post-match...
Ziggler's music played for about two seconds before Harper attacked him, cutting off Dolph's music and rendering the match an after-thought. A brawl broke out in the ring, then Big Show jogged down to ringside. Show helped the heels dominate the faces, then Erick Rowan showed up with steel steps. Rowan ran over Kane, then Ziggler whipped Rollins face-first into Rowan's steps.
In the ring, Show tried a chokeslam on both Rowan and Ryback, but Ziggler superkicked Show in the mouth. Meathook Clothesline to Show. Cena then hoisted Show in the air, turned to the hard camera, took a deep breath, and dropped Show with an AA in the middle of the ring. The babyfaces then picked up Show and Rowan finished him off with steel steps to the shoulder/face region. "Down goes the giant," Cole declared.
Cena's music played and the quartet of Cena, Rowan, Ziggler, and Ryback stood tall in the ring as the Team Cena traitor, Big Show, remained out cold in the ring. Cena reluctantly shook hands with Rowan, who Cole said has "arrived." Rowan stood over Show and stroked his beard before rubbing the side of his head.
WWE cut to a backstage shot of "Stone Cold" Steve Austin sitting at a table waiting for Vince McMahon to join him for the live Network podcast after Raw ended five minutes past the top of the hour.
FINAL THOUGHTS: Okay maintenance show trying to fast-break the TLC PPV hype, while also following up on Survivor Series events. Fine, but pretty dry and forgettable stretched out over three hours. Cena's #1 contender status to the WWE Title being in jeopardy at TLC also seemed like an after-thought by the end of the show, especially when compared to how much time & effort went into The Authority's power on the line at Survivor Series.
Austin asked him if he wanted to talk about CM Punk. Vince said he wanted to personally apologize for Punk getting his termination papers on his wedding day. He said that in a company their size, the different areas of the company didn't know what was going on in the other areas. He said he was very sorry about the timing of when Punk received his paperwork.
Vince then said that he didn't want to go through dirty laundry. Vince said there have been others who were disgruntled and they said things they later regretted and he hoped he and Punk would one day work together again. Vince said he didn't listen to the Colt Cabana interview but heard Punk used a lot of expletives and things were said that were his perspective on things. He said that he had issues with Austin and Hulk Hogan but they eventually came back. Vince said he was willing to work with Punk again and admits that while Vince has a big ego, he is willing to put it aside and work with Punk down the line. Vince later said Punk worked really hard for the company.
