TNA Impact Wrestling | Changing of the Guard 2.0

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Lashley, TNA Part Ways



NEW YORK CITY - It was announced on September 21st that Bobby Lashley and TNA Wrestling had parted ways after two stints with the company (2009-2010, 2014-2016). Lashley is a two-time world champion in his tenure with TNA and celebrated his 40th birthday with the company in July.

Donald Trump commented on the shocking announcement, saying he's known Lashley for ten years and wants nothing but the best for him. Trump said he appreciated working with Lashley for the last year in TNA and hopes he succeeds in his future endeavors, while hinting at Lashley, age 40, can still go in an MMA ring.

Lashley left his first TNA tenure to focus more on his Mixed Martial Arts career and later returned to TNA while holding both careers down.

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September 26 2016

Jeff Jarrett and Shelton Benjamin of The Force began tonight's Impact in a somber mood after last week. Jarrett and Benjamin tried explaining away Roode's victory, but Mr. Anderson interrupted this and came out himself, pulling the microphone away from Jeff Jarrett. Anderson said though the way Bobby Roode stole the title last week was in all ways wrong, he's not going to point fingers and just wait until October 30th at Bound For Glory when he gets his rematch. Mr. Anderson then placed most of the blame for last week on The Force. Anderson put Jarrett and Benjamin in their place that the deal was for them to help him in all times, to be there for him at all times, yet they weren't. Anderson blamed their shortsightedness by their actions earlier in the night with EC3 and lost focus on what was really important. Benjamin tried pleading his case, when Jarrett snatched the mic away from Anderson and yelled down his throat and accusing Anderson for it being his idea to take EC3 out and keep him from climbing the ladder. Anderson then got the mic from ringside and said calmly he made a match tonight with Shawn Michaels, who was very cooperative for a change. Michaels said it's Jeff Jarrett in the main event... against Shelton Benjamin! This being the shock to many, Anderson says the loser will no longer be worthy of his presence. After a commercial break, Jarrett and Benjamin vented to each other in the back until they realized it is them for themselves tonight, and go their separate ways.

Ricochet def. Tigre Uno
Although the two shook hands at the start, they held nothing back and Ricochet won with a beautiful 630 Senton.

Gail Kim gets interviewed backstage about last week and claims she felt confident about becoming the 6-time Knockouts Champion before Thunnel took the detour. Kim says it wasn't just about becoming champion again, but it was getting Thunnel back for everything. Kim then says now Jenny has fueled her fire and says her passion is rekindled to be the Knockouts Champion once again.

The Wolves def. Dirty Standards w/Chris Sabin in a non-title match
Sabin opted last second to sit this one out, but The Wolves used Force of Nature to pin Castro and beat him and O'Shea.

Immediately after Davey and Eddie's victory, out come The Briscoes, who felt they were robbed and showed footage to the whole world to prove their point. The Wolves shrugged it off and tried walking away, when Mark and Jay pushed both back and the crowd sat on the edge of their seats, ready for a fight. Chris Sabin was watching and sent Dirty Standards into the ring to push The Briscoes into the TNA Tag Team Champions and Dirty Standards began attacking The Briscoes when The Wolves fought back and helped their rivals out. The Wolves and The Briscoes worked together to dispose the ring of Dirty Standards before coming face-to-face with each other and the four locked eyes.

Shawn Michaels was backstage, watching the chaos, and when Jeremy Borash walked in with questions on how to handle the situation, Michaels brought up two complaints about last week's TNA Heartbreak, the Anniversary of the New Era. Shawn mentioned The Briscoes and confirmed they made good points, saying they should have another opportunity at the belts. Michaels also mentioned a mistake he made last week by allowing Makabe and Honma to be at ringside for the main event, which should have been a decisive finish. Shawn says that next week, Togi Makaba and Tomoaki Honma wrestle The Briscoes for their punishment. Michaels says if The Briscoes, and only The Briscoes, win this match, they'll get The Wolves at Bound For Glory in a much warranted rematch. JB mentions if The Briscoes can't win, will Makabe and Honma be the #1 contenders, and Michaels shut that down quickly. Michaels says he'd figure out a valid team to challenge The Wolves, but it won't be Makabe and Honma.

Chris Jericho def. Rockstar Spud in a non-title match
The X-Division Champion was challenged by an intelligent Rockstar Spud, but Jericho's veteran instincts proved to be stronger and ended this with a Codebreaker out of nowhere!

Former world champion Mr. Anderson gets interviewed by Jeremy Borash about going to Shawn Michaels for the match tonight, while Anderson answers he was and still is the #1 priority, not just in The Force, but in TNA. Anderson demands to be treated as such, and Michaels recognizes that reality, and that Benjamin and Jarrett will get that reality check tonight. Anderson leaves the interview by requesting a message of gratitude from the both of them, getting them a main event neither one truly deserves.

John Hennigan def. Patriot 2000
A Moonlight Drive followed up by End of the World gave Hennigan a big singles victory, trying to get that back on track.

After the contest, Patriot 2000 was left in the ring by himself sulking. Kurt Angle felt inclined to leave the table and go consult Patriot 2000, and when Angle helped Patriot 2000 up and hugged him, then raised his hand, Patriot 2000 pulled Angle in for a clothesline. With Don West stunned by this, along with the rest of the crowd, Patriot 2000 stomped away before leaving ringside and getting a steel chair and staring West in the face. Patriot got inside the ring and hammered away with the chair to Angle, and specifically at his lower leg. Patriot 2000 threw the chair down and put in the Patriot Lock, adapted from Kurt Angle, until Angle tapped in helpless pain. Patriot 2000 picked the chair back up and put it on Angle's leg and was about to break the ankle of Kurt Angle when security finally rushed to the ring and stopped this madness as Patriot 2000 laughs and heads out.

Following the commercial break, a replay occurs of what just transpired and taking the place of Kurt Angle at commentary is TNA President Shawn Michaels. Michaels sends his best to Kurt, and when Don West asks what the repercussions will be for Patriot 2000, Michaels leaves it alone and wants to just call a match.

Gail Kim def. Marti Belle
Gail Kim sent a message to the Knockouts Champion Jenny Thunnel with an Eat Defeat on Marti to win this contest.

Right before the main event, Don West and Shawn Michaels recap on what's happened tonight. West mentions next week's tag team match between The Briscoes and the duo of Makabe and Honma. West also mentions that the TNA World Heavyweight Champion Bobby Roode will be at Impact next week, and Michaels mentioned giving Roode the night off to spend time with family in Canada. Shawn then makes an announcement on the spot, that after tonight, he's making a Knockouts Championship match for next week between Jenny Thunnel and Gail Kim under No Disqualification. Don West is excited and we turn to the ring for the main event in which Mr. Anderson comes down for a ringside view. The main event up next is to determine who is "worthy" of still being by Mr. Anderson's side as he looks to become a 4-time TNA World Heavyweight Champion at Bound For Glory.

SPOILER: Click to show

Jeff Jarrett def. Shelton Benjamin
This match was up-and-down for both competitors and when Shelton Benjamin had avoided The Stroke twice, he began to gain momentum and it looked to be his as he searched for hitting Paydirt. Mr. Anderson then hopped on the apron and shouted for Benjamin to apologize for last week, as Benjamin pondered and didn't, instead gave Anderson the finger salute and got caught from behind as Jarrett hit The Stroke. Jarrett rolled Benjamin over for a 3-count.

After the main event, Mr. Anderson got inside the ring and celebrated with the winner as Impact tonight goes off the air on FOX Sports 1.

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October 3 2016

The new TNA World Heavyweight Champion Bobby Roode kicked Impact off, first recapping with his vacation to Canada to meet his family, reminding everyone how he lost himself over the world title his first time, and took the vacation to assure it won't happen again, that family comes first. Roode mentions Mr. Anderson lost himself with the championship and greed, but moves on and lists off some names he wants to wrestle for the title, including AJ Styles, Austin Aries, EC3, John Hennigan, Rey Mysterio, and this list was interrupted by Mr. Anderson, who came out with Jeff Jarrett. Anderson was quiet while Jeff Jarrett acted as his mic piece, in which Roode called Anderson the loudmouth of TNA while applauding himself, saying he finally shut TNA's loudmouth up. This prompted Anderson to grab the mic and in essence challenge the world champion for a title match tonight. TNA President Shawn Michaels came out to calm things down, saying the match is happening at Bound For Glory, which the crowd boos. Michaels lets the crowd know they'll see both in the main event tonight, as the tandem of Jeff Jarrett and Mr. Anderson wrestle TNA World Heavyweight Champion Bobby Roode and former Dirty Heels partner Austin Aries. As this bombshell drops, the commentary team gets some airtime with Don West and Kurt Angle, as Angle updates on his condition and says he'll be okay, while West informs everyone that Patriot 2000 has been sent home after last week's attack. They run down the card for tonight, also mentioning AJ Styles is in action after the break against Angelico.

AJ Styles def. Angelico
Another great X-Division match to kick off Impact the last couple of weeks, this going to AJ Styles, locking in a Calf Killer.

Bobby Roode is backstage, about to head into his locker room to change, when Austin Aries comes up. Aries speaks on how excited he is for tonight, imagining winning the TNA Tag Team Championships from The Wolves. Roode told Aries to slow it down and says this is a one night reunion. Roode made sure Aries understood they were continuing on going their separate ways before Aries let Roode go get changed.

The Briscoes def. Togi Makabe & Tomoaki Honma
Jay used the Jay-Driller and Mark made sure with the Froggy Bow to put away Honma and secure a rematch Oct 30th against The Wolves.

The Briscoes, after a big win, got quick mic time to call The Wolves cowards. Jay challenged Davey Richards and Eddie Edwards, for their rematch, to be at Bound For Glory, and for them to climb the ladder of glory if they're not scared. Backstage, Davey and Eddie are backstage as Jeremy Borash comes up to ask for an instant reaction. Eddie says if they want it to be a Ladder Match, they have no trouble with it.

Ciampa def. Cortez Castro w/Aiden O'Shea and Chris Sabin
Ciampa locked in the Sicilian Stretch and forced Castro to tap out.

As soon as the match was over, Sabin and O'Shea was on top of Ciampa like a pack of wolves. As it became a 3-on-1 assault, the music of Rey Mysterio hit and he, along with Tigre Uno, rushed to the ring with chairs. Sabin and Castro fled, but O'Shea was left to get a gutshot with the chair by Rey and for Tigre to wrap the steel around O'Shea's back as Mysterio and Tigre Uno came down to save Ciampa from an unfair disadvantage.

Backstage, Mr. Anderson is standing alone for an interview with Jeremy Borash. Ken asks why JB requested for this interview alone and Borash asked for an explanation after last week's distraction against Shelton Benjamin. Anderson says Jeff Jarrett went to him and apologized, so he gave Shelton Benjamin the opportunity for redemption, which he didn't capitalize on. Anderson says it is him and Jeff Jarrett, the only man he trusted to begin with.

Jenny Thunnel(c) def. Gail Kim in a No Disqualification Match to retain the TNA Knockouts Championship
Thunnel was in trouble until Awesome Kong came down and hit the Awesome Bomb on Kim. Jenny, thinking Kong was on her side, fell into a trap and got hit with the Implant Buster. Kong pulled Thunnel over Kim's body for a pin.

As Thunnel was laid out on top of Gail Kim, Awesome Kong snatched the title belt away from the referee and raised the Knockouts Championship above her head, signaling she wants it.

As the carnage was cleaned up at ringside while a video package played for Bound For Glory, Kurt Angle used a crutch to help himself in the ring and had a microphone. Angle mentioned what happened last week with Patriot 2000, and Angle said he brought Patriot 2000 into TNA and petitioned for him to be signed by the company. Angle said he's been his outspoken biggest supporter and he was disappointed by Patriot 2000's attack, but can understand it. Angle said he hopes Patriot 2000 understands, and when Angle throws his crutch aside, challenges Patriot 2000 to a match at Bound For Glory on October 30th. Angle leaves the ring as he gets back to the commentary table, coming back to a stunned Don West who just learned with the rest of the world.

TNA President Shawn Michaels is approached by Jeremy Borash in his office and Borash asks Shawn's thoughts on a very eventful Impact tonight. Shawn says he just learned about Kurt Angle's challenge, and so he'll have to talk with Kurt before anything becomes official. Shawn also comments on the knockouts situation, saying he heard Awesome Kong loud and clear, putting her in a title match against Jenny Thunnel next week on Impact. Michaels said in case Gail Kim tries to seek redemption, this match will be contested inside a Steel Cage! It's sent to ringside for the main event.

The Force def. Austin Aries & Bobby Roode
The Dirty Heels reunion is short lived as Aries attacks Roode and it becomes a 3-on-1 assault before Aries hits a Brainbuster, Jarrett the Stroke, and Anderson his Mic Check to put down the champ.

Austin Aries left the ring to Mr. Anderson and Jeff Jarrett, as they stood tall over TNA World Heavyweight Champion Bobby Roode at the end of Impact.

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October 10 2016

The show began with Austin Aries making his way to the ring and with everyone wanting him to explain his actions from last week, said it doesn't take a rocket science to figure out. Aries realized that Bobby Roode is at the very top of his game, and Aries wants back at the top, so he did what anyone else would do, as he let Bobby know he has no friends at the top. A furious world champion came out to respond and shouted through his microphone if Aries wants to be at the top so bad, he doesn't mind putting his championship on the line tonight! Aries liked the idea and accepted, as we have TWO championship matches tonight!

Dirty Standards def. Ciampa, Rey Mysterio, and Tigre Uno
Things were going great for the trio of Ciampa, Mysterio, and Tigre, but when Rey missed a 619 and was rolled up by Sabin, Sabin's rope leverage didn't get caught by the ref in time.

Rey Mysterio was on his knees, shaking his head as Ciampa and Tigre Uno surrounding him, after giving all they had tonight, fell short against Sabin, O'Shea, and Castro. We then go backstage to Shelton Benjamin, wearing a hoodie on the stares, and though you can hardly see his face in the shadows, you know it's his voice after the story he tells. Benjamin says it's a new leaf and he will make an impact on his own. He then gets up and walks away.

Shelton Benjamin def. Mandrews
Benjamin quickly and viciously put Mandrews away, using a T-Bone Suplex into the corner, dragging Mandrews lifeless body out of it for a pin.

After the match concludes, one where Benjamin never took his hoodie off, he puts the hood over his face once more before talking into a microphone, requesting his music gets cut off. Benjamin says he is the only member of The Force that can bring championship gold by himself. Benjamin is fine being no longer associated with Jeff Jarrett and Mr. Anderson, but he wants Chris Jericho's X-Division Championship.

Backstage, Bobby Roode is getting out of his suit to put his ring gear on, and only has his dress shirt unbuttoned when Shawn Michaels walks in. Michaels asks why he's giving Aries a title match tonight, and he can't authorize something jeopardizing his main event at Bound for Glory. Roode admits he wants to beat up Mr. Anderson at Bound for Glory, but doesn't need a world championship to do it. Roode says Aries won't sit down until he gets a world title opportunity, and Roode promises Michaels that Aries won't walk out with the world title tonight, if he walks out at all.

Jenny Thunnel(c) def. Awesome Kong in a Steel Cage Match to retain the TNA Knockouts Championship
With a steel cage, Awesome Kong was dangerously throwing around Thunnel, until Gail Kim came down and scaled the steel cage wall and had an awesome moment, hitting a Thesz Press from the top of the cage onto Kong, beating her up. The two brawled and this allowed Thunnel enough time to crawl to the cage door and by the time Kong had gotten an upperhand on Kim, Thunnel escapes.

After the match, Kong is so frustrated she slams and locks the cage door with Thunnel out, with the only two Knockouts in the ring being Gail Kim and Awesome Kong. The two go at it and as Awesome Kong nearly gets an Awesome Bomb, Gail Kim battles out and eventually lays out Kong with an Eat Defeat. Jenny Thunnel watched as she backed up the ramp, clutching to her Knockouts Championship, and she locks eyes with Gail Kim, who makes it clear she wants to be the next Knockouts Champion as commercial break passes.

The Wolves def. Irish Borne in a non-title match
The Wolves avoided an upset by the Crist brothers with a Force of Nature being the difference maker, the Briscoes taking a close eye at commentary.

As the tag teams leave their ground, Kurt Angle and Don West are talking about what happened earlier to make a TNA World Heavyweight Championship match in a few moments between Bobby Roode and Austin Aries. As they are hyping up next week's card as well, that features the promising X-Division rookie Ricochet in action against veteran Paul London, as well as Shawn Michaels promising the knockouts turmoil will be solved by next week. Before the challenger Austin Aries can make his way to the ring, Patriot 2000 comes out and stands in the ring to answer Kurt Angle's challenge. Patriot 2000 says he doesn't need to answer why he did what he did, but is only willing to accept the match if Kurt Angle leaves commentary. Patriot 2000 says if Angle loses at Bound for Glory, October 30th is his last night on commentary and his final night in TNA. Angle looks to be contemplating, as Patriot drops the mic and his music plays him out of the ring.

Bobby Roode(c) def. Austin Aries for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship
After Angle stands up and leaves in the middle of the match, Don West is left alone to call the world title retention of Roode, making Aries submit to the Crossface.

Right after Bobby Roode's victory, he pushes Aries out of the ring with his foot and then is attacked by, none other than, Jeff Jarrett and Ken Anderson. The two relive last week's attack as they lay the world champion out for a second straight week, again sending Roode the message that Mr. Anderson is not out of the title picture when Impact goes off the air.

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October 17 2016

The night kicked off with X-Division action!

Ricochet vs. Paul London
A stellar match ended in a run-in by Austin Aries, laying both competitors out and warranting the bell.

Aries would continue the assault, taking advantage of two men who had just had a good 18-minute match. Aries would finish his attack off by laying Ricochet out with the best Brainbuster in the biz today! Aries would step over Ricochet and brush his feet off over Ricochet before walking out of the ring, making a statement as we head into commercial break.

After commercial, TNA World Heavyweight Champion Bobby Roode walked out with the title slung over his shoulder and wanted to get something off his chest, that he's been attacked two straight weeks by The Force and he just wants Bound for Glory to be tonight so he can put Mr. Anderson and his Robin back in their places. The Force responded to this as they came out and Jarrett did the talking, while Anderson stood behind with his arms crossed staring lasers into Bobby Roode. Jarrett responded that as much Anderson wants the title back as soon as possible, he also understands the most money will be generated at Bound for Glory when he wins his 4th world championship. Roode says if he can't have Anderson tonight, then he wants Jeff Jarrett himself. Jarrett shot down the idea, and it took TNA President Shawn Michaels to come out, survey the crowd, and make the main event for tonight official.

Mark Briscoe w/Jay Briscoe def. Davey Richards w/Eddie Edwards
A great taste of the tag team title match at Bound for Glory saw Mark Briscoe upset Davey Richards, using a Froggy Bow.

X-Division Champion Chris Jericho was interviewed by Jeremy Borash backstage and was asked about Shelton Benjamin's challenge. Jericho says he and Benjamin go a long way back and thinks that TNA fans around the world should see this match here. Jericho says he always got the upperhand against Shelton in their career, so it won't be any different at Bound for Glory.

TNA President Shawn Michaels heads out to address the knockouts situation that has boiled over in 2016, ever since Jenny Thunnel became TNA Knockouts Champion. After several replays, he calls the knockouts down to the ring, first Gail Kim, then Awesome Kong, and the Knockouts Champion last. Michaels voices his displeasure as TNA President that time after time he can't get anything definitive in his championship matches. Shawn then says he understands as a competitor that they not only want the championship, but a huge chunk out of Jenny Thunnel. Shawn says he had been going back and forth all week whether to give Gail Kim the shot at Jenny Thunnel's title because she had the opportunity first ruined by Awesome Kong, or Awesome Kong because Gail Kim blatantly disregarded the steel cage and its purpose. Michaels says he's making the match for Bound for Glory, Gail Kim versus Awesome Kong... versus Jenny Thunnel for the Knockouts Championship! The crowd went nuts in the good way while Thunnel went nuts in the bad way. Michaels then mentions that the only catch, is that Awesome Kong and Gail Kim must win their match tonight, a tag team match. Shawn leaves as Kim and Kong look at each other, learning about this for the first time, when Madison Rayne and Velvet Sky come out! Sky hadn't wrestled since August 22nd, and Madison Rayne hasn't even been seen since May 9th! The Beautiful People are back!

Awesome Kong & Gail Kim def. The Beautiful People
The bitter rivals found a way, with the title opportunity on the line, to coexist and beat Velvet Sky after an Eat Defeat into an Implant Buster.

After the match, Awesome Kong and Gail Kim celebrated the opportunity, but Kim quickly made the statement with an Eat Defeat to one of her two opponents, as he signaled to the crowd she's the next Knockouts Champion come Bound for Glory.

Coming back from commercial, Rey Mysterio is in the ring and he mentions letting Ciampa and Tigre Uno down last week, feeling terrible at it. This prompts Chris Sabin to come out, with backup Aiden O'Shea and Cortez Castro, as Sabin poked fun at Mysterio. Rey let Sabin know he did win last week, but he didn't do it cleanly, and Mysterio feels Sabin can't do it cleanly. This is when Rey Mysterio challenged to a fair fight at Bound for Glory, which Sabin surprisingly accepted. Sabin then said since the fair fight isn't until Bound for Glory, "boys...", and then O'Shea and Castro pounced on Mysterio. The three beat him down until Ciampa and Tigre Uno quickly came to the rescue. Ciampa grabbed the mic and said he's still got some unfinished business with Sabin, so challenged him to come back down for a fight as Mysterio was helped to the back.

Ciampa w/Tigre Uno def. Chris Sabin w/Dirty Standards
Sabin tried avoiding Ciampa, but couldn't elude the hard strikes and got in the Sicilian Stretch, which he immediately tapped out of to avoid injury.

Shawn Michaels is in his office when Ricochet walks in, holding an ice pack on his neck, demanding a match against Austin Aries, and just wants Michaels to name where. Ricochet told him to make it soon, and this is when Michaels told Ricochet to take a deep breath. Shawn says that Bound for Glory is less than two weeks away and wants his rising X-Division star against someone who has held the belt 6 different times. Michaels insists that if Aries wants in his business, he'll get in it on October 30th. Ricochet shakes the hand of TNA President before he leaves, grateful for the opportunity to seek revenge.

The commentary team gets ready for the main event, but lets everyone know some matches already made for next week. The duo of Shelton Benjamin and Austin Aries are wrestling Ricochet and X-Division Champion Chris Jericho. They also say that Michaels was so impressed with Awesome Kong and Gail Kim, before Kim's Eat Defeat, that they've put them in a 2-on-1 handicap match next week, up against Knockouts Champion Jenny Thunnel. They also confirm a match for Bound for Glory, recalling last year a 6-Man Invitational Gauntlet to six free agents. They announce Bound for Glory will hold the second annual invitational gauntlet, awarding the winner a $500,000 contract. They credit Angelico for winning last year, and can only imagine whose dream comes true in 2016. Kurt Angle then turns a page, announcing also for Bound for Glory, he's accepting the terms laid down by Patriot 2000 last week, that if Angle loses, he'll leave the commentary table and the company. Don West doesn't like it, that he doesn't have to accept those terms, but Angle insists it's the only way as they try to call main event action.

Jeff Jarrett w/Mr. Anderson def. Bobby Roode in a non-title match
After the referee was knocked out accidentally, Anderson swiped the world title from the timekeeper's area and smashed it over the head of Bobby Roode, who was draped over the middle rope, and this popped Roode up for Jarrett's Stroke, then to wake the ref for the 3 count.

Impact ended once again with Jeff Jarrett and Mr. Anderson standing above the body of Bobby Roode, only a matter of time until Mr. Anderson claims the world championship again.

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So considering the new Bullet Club Skin showed me that Navy is difficult to see on a dark background, and since Impact is the only show I have on this booker, I'll be doing normal fonts with the regular shows. I may bring something special up for the PPVs and TNA Heartbreaks, but time will tell.

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October 24 2016

Impact begins tonight with TNA President Shawn Michaels in the ring and he uses the time to hype Sunday's incredible card with Bound for Glory, then secretly pokes fun at WWE's Rage in the Cage the same night, particularly about the Valley of Shadows Deathmatch. Michaels says all his competitors will be in safe working environments with fair opportunities to see who truly is the best. Michaels brings Mr. Anderson out, which Jeff Jarrett comes with a package deal. Shawn says he had a chance to look at last week, and to make sure a repeat doesn't happen this Sunday, he's banning Jeff Jarrett from ringside. Jarrett goes off and calls Shawn a disgrace, Trump a disgrace, and says he would have never made a dumb decision like that. Jarrett feels he should be on the Bound for Glory show, and Shawn tells Jeff Jarrett he agrees, but will main event tonight to earn the right on the card. Jarrett tilts his head, in which Michaels announces Jeff Jarrett will go 1-on-1 with John Hennigan, another person left off the card. Michaels promises the winner an unique opportunity and a major role at Bound for Glory, as we head to commercial.

Chris Jericho and Ricochet def. Austin Aries and Shelton Benjamin
Jericho and Ricochet had an awesome pairing, ended up winning with a Codebreaker to Aries, followed up with a 630 Senton by Ricochet.

As they celebrated, X-Division Champion Jericho gave Ricochet a nod of approval as the commentators hype up tonight's card, going into a commercial.

"The Phenomenal" AJ Styles heads out and acknowledges the fans before getting in the ring and down to business with a microphone in hand. AJ Styles says he has been back in TNA for one year and he's been proud to say he's given everything he can for the X-Division. AJ Styles makes it clear that after Bound for Glory, no matter the result, he wants to become TNA World Heavyweight Champion once again. The crowd roared, but then it was cut silent by the music of Ethan Carter III. EC3, not being heard from since last month's TNA Heartbreak, informed AJ he was world champion for 353 days, and is offended a TNA great like AJ Styles never challenged him. EC3 says he wants the championship back as well, like Styles said, no matter who is champion. Ethan then gets the idea of Bound for Glory, to wrestle AJ Styles for the first time ever on Pay-Per-View. AJ listens to the crowd, then accepts, loving the idea and making it official with a handshake.

Backstage, when Jeff Jarrett was approached by Jeremy Borash about what the special opportunity was hinted by Shawn Michaels, Jarrett was still in his mood as he shouted it better be his presidency in TNA, because he's sick of Shawn Michaels.

Jay Briscoe w/Mark Briscoe def. Eddie Edwards w/Davey Richards
A Jay Driller gave the Briscoes an unblemished record in singles matches against The Wolves headed into Sunday.

The Beautiful People make their way to the ring and have some mic time. While they are disappointed about not being on the Bound for Glory card this Sunday, they'll be fine with Thunnel, Kong, and Kim destroying each other to shorten their careers. Madison Rayne made a point that after Bound for Glory, she is looking forward to becoming a 7-time Knockouts Champion. This was met by Kimber Lee, who pointed out Madison and Velvet haven't shown up for months and are instantly putting themselves in the title picture, which is wrong, and she has something to say about it. Madison asked if Kimber Lee wanted a match, and when Kimber Lee was ready to go, Rayne stepped out and let Velvet Sky take it instead.

Kimber Lee def. Velvet Sky w/Madison Rayne
Madison Rayne crumbled in disappointment after Sky lost to a Split-legged Jawbreaker by Kimber Lee.

Kurt Angle decides to take this time to enter the ring and address the match with Patriot 2000 at Bound for Glory. Kurt Angle says he has put his livelihood on the line and it's no storyline when it's an all or nothing. Angle says he must win on Sunday to stay employed, but when he gives it his all and if he falls short, he let the fans know he's not regret coming ten years ago. Angle said he showed up in TNA for the first time in October of 2006 and has left no stone unturned and has done it all. Angle thanks the fans and thanked everyone for the opportunity. Angle's interrupted by Patriot 2000 who fakes a teardrop and Patriot feels this was a retirement speech, which is fitting, because then Angle doesn't have to show his face on Impact again. Angle tells Patriot 2000 he's got a bright future and he hopes to call his future world title, because he believes in him, but first will have to teach him a lesson about respect. Angle says his goal is to be at the commentator's desk next Monday and he's going there right now, as he unwisely turns his back to Patriot 2000 and is attacked by him. Patriot picked the ankle of Kurt and security had to force the break, in which Patriot 2000 backed off and walked away as Kurt was tended to.

After the commercial break, Kurt Angle was back at the commentary table, saying he was fine and wanted to continue calling the action.

Awesome Kong and Gail Kim def. Jenny Thunnel in a 2-on-1 Handicap Match
Awesome Kong and Gail Kim were able to coexist as Awesome Kong hit her Implant Buster followed by Gail's Eat Defeat to pin the Knockouts Champion.

Immediately after the match, Awesome Kong returned the favor from last week and blasted Gail Kim from behind before an Implant Buster on Kim. Awesome Kong was the only knockout standing tall as she snatched the title away from an intimidated referee as he glares at it, hoping to tie Kim with a 5th title reign beginning this Sunday.

The commentary team of Don West and Kurt Angle, on possibly their final Impact together, run down this Sunday's card at Bound for Glory:
Bobby Roode(c) vs Ken Anderson for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship
Patriot 2000 vs Kurt Angle
AJ Styles vs Ethan Carter III
Chris Jericho(c) vs Shelton Benjamin for the X-Division Championship
Chris Sabin vs Rey Mysterio
The Wolves(c) vs The Briscoes in a Ladder Match for the TNA Tag Team Championships
Austin Aries vs Ricochet
Jenny Thunnel(c) vs Awesome Kong vs Gail Kim for the TNA Knockouts Championship
6-Man Invitational Gauntlet for $500,000 TNA Contract

After running it down, here begins the main event for a "special opportunity" at Bound for Glory this Sunday.

John Hennigan def. Jeff Jarrett
Hennigan caught the veteran Jeff Jarrett with a Moonlight Drive after an excellent main event on Impact.

As Impact was coming to an end, Shawn Michaels interrupted the celebration to come down with a microphone to talk to John Hennigan, while Jeff Jarrett sat on the outside against the barricade, attempting to catch his breath. Shawn says at Bound for Glory, the card is stacked, and he can't quite make another match, but he's giving John Hennigan two choices. Hennigan is asked if he'd like to be added to the X-Division Championship match, or if he would like to be the special guest referee for the main event of Bobby Roode versus Mr. Anderson. Hennigan looked to contemplate the decision, but saw Jeff Jarrett, standing up and hollering at Shawn Michaels. Hennigan says he'd love to be an X-Division Champion, but he said watching Jarrett have a tantrum is the most hilarious thing ever. Hennigan said he's tired of The Force running around in TNA, so he wants to put a stop to it, and chooses to act as the special guest referee. Hennigan laughs some more at Jeff Jarrett as Impact goes off the air.

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Predictions?

Bobby Roode(c) vs Mr Anderson for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship (John Hennigan is Special Guest Referee)
Patriot 2000 vs Kurt Angle
AJ Styles vs Ethan Carter III
Chris Jericho(c) vs Shelton Benjamin for the X-Division Championship
Chris Sabin vs Rey Mysterio
The Wolves(c) vs The Briscoes in a Ladder Match for the TNA Tag Team Championships
Austin Aries vs Ricochet
Jenny Thunnel(c) vs Awesome Kong vs Gail Kim for the TNA Knockouts Championship


This match is unpredictable as I'm not releasing the six men at this time, but it's still on the card!
6-Man Invitational Gauntlet for $500,000 TNA Contract

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James Storm Confirmed for Bound For Glory



NEW YORK CITY - It was announced Friday afternoon by TNA's official twitter account that TNA icon James Storm will be in attendance at Bound For Glory. Storm's role will be to fill Kurt Angle's commentary seat while the Olympic Gold Medalist wrestles Patriot 2000 on one of TNA's biggest events of the year. James Storm will join Don West on commentary that night.

James Storm was last at a TNA arena for Slammiversary earlier this year, wrestling Bobby Roode and Austin Aries in the opening match as America's Most Wanted made a surprise appearance.

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October 30 2016

Don West begins the night standing in the ring before laying out the card in front of us tonight. West mentioned his own broadcast partner Kurt Angle is wrestling Patriot 2000 for his job, in which West shows his bias support for Angle tonight. West then introduces who will be joining him at commentary tonight, "The Cowboy" James Storm! As Storm heads out to a pop, West sneaks his way to the broadcast table. Storm meets West at the table and shake hands before both sit down and get acclimated before the first match. Austin Aries is the first to come out to the ring, and he takes the liberty to grab the microphone to speak about his contributions to TNA, and in particular, the X-Division. Aries brings up his longest reign as champion for the company's history at 301 days, and also predicts it won't be Chris Jericho to break the record. Aries says he's taken offense to the hype surrounding Ricochet and what he'll do for the X-Division, in which Aries says he'll always be better than Ricochet, not to mention right now in their careers. Aries calls Ricochet out for their match now, in which he obliges.

Austin Aries vs. Ricochet
Ricochet was in a gear faster than Aries, impressing and dropping the jaw to Aries with the pace Ricochet was wrestling at and the moves he was pulling off, and even put Austin's jaw in place with a beautiful dropkick to sound throughout the arena. Aries would be able to counter a springboard attack with popping up for an elbow strike, knocking Ricochet down off the rope, hitting the apron before he finally crashed on the floor. Aries would then change gameplans by using a grounding style to downplay Ricochet.

The match ended when this ground game would end and Ricochet would strike to get out of the holds and then hit a few clotheslines, and then even another dropkick. The pace would get back up, and it was all over from there, as Ricochet landed a Benadryller before dragging Aries into position for a 630 Splash and scoring the pinfall over a 6-time X-Division Champion.

SPOILER: Click to show

Winner: Ricochet

6-Man Invitational Gauntlet for $500,000 TNA Contract
The first two in the gauntlet was Drew Gulak and Zane Riley for a rich contract in TNA. Drew Gulak had a few impressive submission holds, but Zane Riley would play around with the size difference and beat Gulak with a senton from the second rope, waiting for the next man, Marty Scurll.

When Zane Riley took Scurll about as seriously as Gulak, which wasn't much, Scurll snapped the fingers of Zane Riley and this began to spiral downward as Scurll locked in a crossface chickenwing, putting it down with some bodyscissors to have Zane Riley face the music and tap out.

Next came Johnny Gargano to take on Marty Scurll. The two fought and were pretty evenly matched, but Scurll had a taste of his own medicine when he was the one this time to be forced to tap out of a $500,000 contract to a Crosston Crab applied by Gargano.

Hoping to keep the streak going of the fresh legs advancing in the gauntlet, Ruckus would head out and face off against Gargano. The two were sized similar, and Ruckus even matched a couple highflying moves, but he brought more of a vicious side to the gauntlet. Gargano was able to fight it off, and created separation by dropkicking Ruckus to the floor. Things looked down when Gargano tried a suicide dive and Ruckus moved out of the way, Gargano taking a bad fall into the steel barricade. However, Gargano was able to advance hitting Uniquely You in a small window to move on.

The sixth and final entrant to this was Andrew Everett, taking advantage of Gargano's bad fall that was still lingering. Gargano was even a moment close with a Crosston Crab to earn a big contract with TNA, and by this point the fans were behind him, but Everett switched his weight for a pin attempt, and the referee counted three, but not even seeing Everett reaching back with the ropes during the pin.

SPOILER: Click to show

Winner: Andrew Everett

Everett ran out of the ring as quickly as he could as the referee chased him down to raise his hand at the top of the ramp, but as Gargano saw the replay, he was hot and hollered at the referee, even showing him the replay, but by this time Andrew Everett is out of dodge and has earned him a job. We then spot Shelton Benjamin sitting on the stairs with the sleeveless hoodie over his face, then heads out for his title opportunity next.

Chris Jericho(c) vs. Shelton Benjamin for the TNA X-Division Championship
The commentary team was a highlight of this match, while James Storm took a shot at the E with memories of Jericho's and Benjamin's history at the other company and that they'd rather be in the hottest rising company today. Don West, while trying to downplay and backtrack on Storm's comments, he mentioned the comments by Austin Aries earlier about Jericho not being the one to break the 301-day reign. This match was fair to show they were veterans and familiar with each other's work, countering some of the other's trademark moves and even countering with never-before-seen stuff to see the two wrestlers keep adapting to today. A very even match throughout.

The match came to a close as Jericho had Benjamin in the Walls of Jericho, but a ropebreak occurred. Jericho then tried for a Codebreaker, but Benjamin caught him and threw him into the corner to hit a step-up enzuigiri. Jericho, on wobbly legs, Benjamin hit a belly-to-belly suplex. Shelton went for a cover, but only got two, and then for a T-Bone Suplex, trying to position for a corner shot, but Jericho elbowed out of it and whipped him across the ring, one that Jericho capitalized on with a lariat. Jericho pulled Benjamin out to the center of the ring and tried to lock in the Walls of Jericho, but Benjamin rolls his legs to get out of it. As Benjamin and Jericho both get to their feet in time, Jericho charges but gets caught by Benjamin, who backs up a few steps to hit the T-Bone Suplex in the corner. Benjamin pulled Jericho out enough for the cover and it's good!

SPOILER: Click to show

Winner: Shelton Benjamin, new TNA X-Division Champion

As the champion celebrates with the title, we go backstage to Jeremy Borash with guest Chris Sabin. Sabin recalls last year's Bound for Glory, in which he entered and left as the X-Division Champion. Sabin says it is also the 1-year anniversary since Aiden O'Shea came to TNA and while he appreciates his friendship with O'Shea, he calls the critics that say he can't do anything on his own the real cowards. Sabin says he's begged for Aiden O'Shea and Cortez Castro to stay in the back for his match against the "aged out" Rey Mysterio, one he's happy to take care of on his own.

Chris Sabin vs. Rey Mysterio
Chris Sabin and Rey Mysterio were even this match until about 6 minutes in, when Mysterio hurt his knee on a hurricanrana from the top rope. Sabin spotted this and worked on the knee for several minutes of this match, trying to break the will of the luchador legend as he used various unique submission holds to attack the knee. Sabin even locked in a Figure-4 before opting to let go after a couple minutes of it locked in.

This signaled the end, as Sabin would then call for a Cradle Shock, and he hit it, but Rey Mysterio kicked out at two! Sabin lost his cool and began stomping away at the knee some more before picking Rey Mysterio up and taking his throat across his throat to taunt, but Rey tripped Sabin up into the second rope. Mysterio hobbled and began to hit a 619, but his knee caused it to be slower than necessary and gave Sabin time to move. Sabin then hit a big uppercut before putting Mysterio on his shoulders for a Cradle Shock, but Mysterio transitioned it into a pin, one that Sabin had to get out of at two. Sabin was then caught once again on the middle rope and this time was hit with a 619! Shaking life into his leg, Rey scaled slowly up to the top rope, pay a tribute to late friend Eddie Guerrero, before landing a frog splash and hooking the leg of Sabin which was done for.

SPOILER: Click to show

Winner: Rey Mysterio

Headed into the next match, the commentators prompt a video package that began with Awesome Kong and Gail Kim's rivalry, including last year's 2-out-of-3 falls match between them for the title, while also introducing Jenny Thunnel with her debut in TNA giving her a contract back in February. They show Thunnel's path to the title and how she's rubbed Kim and Kong the wrong way with injuring their arms before their triple threat next.

Jenny Thunnel(c) vs. Awesome Kong vs. Gail Kim for the TNA Knockouts Championship
This match began like we believed it would. With both challengers having a personal bone to pick with Jenny Thunnel, they went right after the champion and worked together to inflict pain on her. As the two worked for the opening minutes to take Thunnel out, the old rivalry displayed in the video package rose from the surface as Kong and Kim went after each other. Awesome Kong won that battle and as soon after, Jenny Thunnel legally used a steel chair in this triple threat, smashing it across Kong's back. This infuriated Kong and she was able to punch right through into Thunnel's face, as Kim then recovered and was able to chop low on Kong and get her off her feet. Thunnel would eventually get back in the action, having a couple parts in the match where she'd apply various arm holds on both competitors, threatening another injury.

The match was nearing the end as it looked like Awesome Kong, who had control over the Knockouts Champion, was about to become a 5-time Knockouts Champion, that would actually tie Gail Kim, who was outside nursing an arm injury exploited by Thunnel earlier in the match. Kong had gotten Jenny Thunnel up for an Awesome Bomb, but Gail had fought back to get up to the top rope and hit a dropkick to the back of Kong, as Jenny used the dropkick momentum to get a facebuster out of it. Thunnel rolled out of the ring and Gail didn't notice but to attack Kong with a fury of moves before landing a few kicks to the chest before a big roundhouse kick. Kim went back up top to hit a big moonsault on Awesome Kong. Gail then also lurked for Awesome Kong to get up, then Kim hit the Eat Defeat! Right as she hit it, Jenny Thunnel opportunistically slid back inside the ring and took Kim's bad shoulder and threw it into the ringpost. As Kim yelled in pain, Thunnel brought her back to the center of the ring and locked in a Cross Armbreaker, forcing Kim to tap out and Thunnel to retain her title tonight.

SPOILER: Click to show

Winners: Jenny Thunnel

Jenny Thunnel was handed her Knockouts Championship and demanded the referee place it around her waist, and after she had that, she took no time for granted as she celebrated a big, big win tonight at Bound for Glory against perhaps TNA's biggest knockouts in the company's history. We then headed backstage for Kurt Angle getting ready for his match in moments when Jeremy Borash came up to him. Angle said he's been here for ten years and Patriot 2000 might be the best wrestler for the next decade, but he won't be the best wrestler tonight, as Angle said he is willing to leave it all out in the ring to join Don West at commentary once again before heading on.

Kurt Angle vs. Patriot 2000
Kurt Angle knew full and well what was at stake. His first match in TNA since the summer of 2015, and perhaps his final appearance for TNA. Patriot 2000 looked in better physical shape of course, but Angle put all doubt to bed if he could still go when he hit a German Suplex on Patriot 2000 out of the gates and nearly went for an Angle Slam to put it away early, but Patriot wisely pushed Angle away and hurried under the bottom rope to regroup. Once they got past this, Patriot 2000 and Angle were able to show each other their mat wrestling ability, while Angle used his veteran savvy to get out of holds and place Patriot into holds of his own. Patriot 2000 was creative enough to create a new hold, one that basically brought Angle's feet all the way to the back of Angle's skull, but Angle was able to roll out of the incredibly painful hold.

Towards the end of this collegiate wrestling style match, Patriot 2000 had gained all the control and decided to go for the Patriot Lock, which is the same finishing move Kurt Angle made famous. Patriot locked it in, but Angle was able to get to the bottom rope, as Patriot didn't lay down and lock it in. Angle was able to trip Patriot up a few minutes earlier and get an Angle Lock of his own, but Patriot slowly got to the ropes himself. Angle was ready for the Angle Slam, but Patriot blocked it into an STO. Patriot bounced up to his feet and cockily took down his only strap, mocking the Olympic Gold Medalist, and lurking for an Angle Slam, but Kurt Angle got out of it and hit one of his own before tearing the straps down and locking in the Angle Lock. Angle even got down on the mat for more pressure, but Angle forgot to pull Patriot closer to the center of the ring, so he's forced to break the hold. Angle got up frustrated, and then decided he'd pull Patriot towards the middle for another attempt, but Patriot pushed Angle off. The two got back up and when Angle rushed for him, Patriot picked him up and drove him into the corner, aiming shoulder thrusts to the ribs, before pulling him out and hitting a Gutwrench Powerbomb and going for a pin of Angle, but Patriot cancelled the win at 2, picking Angle's head up, before defiantly picking Angle up and spitting in Angle's face before hitting a dragon screw. Patriot locked in the Patriot Lock, putting so much pressure on Kurt Angle who had been exhausted this match, and Kurt doesn't even tap, but the referee stops the match after Kurt Angle loses consciousness.

SPOILER: Click to show

Winner: Patriot 2000

Patriot 2000 heads out of the ring as he goes by the commentator's table, poking fun at Kurt's now former broadcasting partner Don West before making his way to the back. Kurt Angle is given medical attention in the ring as he's helped to roll out and is started to be helped to the back, before Kurt Angle pushes them away and uses all the energy he has to roll back into the ring. Kurt barely stands in the center before kissing the TNA fans goodbye, a sign of respect and love, before Kurt walks out on his own power.

The Wolves(c) vs. The Briscoes in a Ladder Match for the TNA World Tag Team Championships
After a downer of a result last match, this got the fans roaring the loudest they've been all night. The action was hardcore, fast-paced, and downright nasty by the Wolves and Briscoes. Jay Briscoe even tried hitting a diving senton plancha onto a ladder set up between the barricade and the ring, but Eddie moved out of the way before that could happen. This took Jay out of action for a while, and we had another spot a few minutes later where Davey Richards grabbed onto the ladder as it laid in the ring, before Eddie Edwards lifted up the ladder, not even set up properly as it was just a vertical stand and Davey Richards on the other side. Davey then does a turning crossbody onto the outside, taking out Mark Briscoe. Eddie Edwards would then set up the ladder properly, as Richards just sacrificed himself, and tried to climb up the ladder and retrieve the titles. As he had trouble, this allowed Jay Briscoe back in the ring after that ladder spot to impede Eddie's progress to the belt, pulling him down and the two fought for it.

Moments later, and at the end of the match, Jay Briscoe had came out on top of this exchange as he hit a discus forearm smash and then a Jay-Driller! Jay swept Eddie to the floor and about climbed up the ladder until he saw Davey Richards stirring on the apron to get back inside. Jay took the ladder up and then pushed it into the face of Davey, making him fall back to the floor. With no Wolves in sight, and Mark Briscoe rolling back inside to play defense, Jay Briscoe set the ladder up in perfect position to win the gold. As Jay Briscoe climbed up, Mark's foot was taken out from underneath him and he was pulled out of the ring and decked on the outside. As Jay was fingertips away from the title, he was smashed in the back with a steel chair by none other than Drew Galloway! Galloway then took Jay Briscoe and powerbombed him off the ladder! Carlito on the outside picked Mark Briscoe up and hit a Backstabber, while Galloway made certain Jay was through, hitting a Future Shock DDT. The two then left ringside and walked backward up the ramp to where Brooke rested, pleased with her Enterprise. The Wolves were stirring and with no knowledge of what happened, except Jay and Mark Briscoe were done for. The two slid in the ring and Eddie Edwards was the one to slowly climb the ladder while Davey knelt by the ladder, as Eddie claimed the titles, unbeknownst to them who assisted.

SPOILER: Click to show

Winner: The Wolves

As they clean up at ringside, Ethan Carter III is standing by with Jeremy Borash right before his big match with AJ Styles next. EC3 called this a "dream match" of everyone in the world, and while he doesn't know what will become of tonight's world title match, he's got his eyes on the champion afterwards. EC3 said he headlined Bound for Glory last year and his goal by this time next year, he's at it again. EC3 says the road to redemption begins tonight versus AJ Styles, as he heads off for the big fight.

AJ Styles vs. Ethan Carter III
AJ Styles and Ethan Carter III, at the prime of their careers, tore the house down in perhaps the best match of the night. So far, the night had a title change, a fantastic triple threat knockouts match, a mat wrestling dream match, and they had just finished with a tag team ladder match, but this was one where the fans chanted "Fight Forever" and many wish they would. Toward the end, EC3 tried to finish it with a One-Percenter, but AJ Styles got out of it and hit a Pele Kick, with the momentum putting EC3 falling through the ropes and to the floor, which brought upon one of the cooler spots in the match. AJ hit a Stylin' DDT, which was a springboard moonsault and onto the floor outside. The two both made it in the ring at the count of 9, in which the crowd approved. The two would exchange a few blows and moves until AJ came out on top with a few fired-up shots followed with a Pele Kick. AJ would try locking in a Calf Killer, but EC3 pushed him off, reeling Styles into the rope with a kick that caught AJ in his face. This gave EC3 time to get up and charge at Styles, clotheslining him over the rope. EC3 turned around to show off, also catching a breather, but he didn't realize AJ landed on the apron. Styles waited for EC3 to turn back around in time for AJ Styles to hit a Phenomenal Forearm!

After the Phenomenal Forearm, AJ Styles knew it was time to hit the Styles Clash, but as he took the time to pose for the cameras, EC3 had reversed it, but instead of using a backbody drop, he held onto AJ Styles and went over to the corner and hit an Alabama Slam, with AJ's head bouncing off the top turnbuckle. AJ wobbly heads out of the corner for EC3 to hit a One-Percenter! EC3 opportunistically rolls Styles over and covers him, but doesn't hook the outside leg, that gets on the bottom rope in the nick of time. EC3 beats himself up over that before he just stands in anticipation for Styles to get back up again for another One-Percenter, and when AJ used the ropes to get his bad shape up, EC3 tried but AJ elbowed Ethan in the gut before hitting a back elbow. Styles then ducks a clothesline by Carter, and catches him for a Bloody Sunday! Styles hooked the leg and Carter kicked out before a loss. Styles didn't know what else to do but to position Carter for the Styles Clash in which Ethan did utilize a backbody drop this time. EC3 was in anticipation for Styles to get up and went up from behind for a rear naked choke, but AJ slipped out and got in the Calf Killer! Ethan Carter III shouted in pain and had to crawl with all his might to the bottom rope, and Styles didn't even let go until the count of 3 and a convincing tug from the referee. AJ was frustrated not knowing what to do to put EC3 down, and instead of going for a Styles Clash, pulling him out and tried hitting Spiral Tap, but the move did more harm to Styles as EC3 got the knees up. Styles yelped in pain and as AJ got back to his feet a split-second later than EC3, Ethan Carter III hit the One-Percenter and rolled AJ Styles over for a pin, but he kicked out!!

With EC3 in disbelief, he pitched a fit, and decided to hit a TK3, but as he hit it, AJ landed on his feet and kicked EC3 in the gut. AJ Styles went for a Styles Clash, but EC3 pushed himself out of it and smashed AJ Styles with an elbow to the jaw before kicking AJ Styles in the gut and positioning Styles and posing to use AJ's Styles Clash, as Styles used the backbody drop to get out of it. As Ethan Carter III got back up to his feet and turned around, AJ kicked EC3 in the gut and posed for the Styles Clash, this time finally hitting his finisher! AJ transitioned over for the pin, and finally getting the win!

SPOILER: Click to show

Winner: AJ Styles

After the match, both competitors stuck around to shake hands after a match that tore the house down and gave the main event up next a tough act to follow. Speaking of, we go backstage to see both Bobby Roode and Mr. Anderson prepping for their match, as well as John Hennigan in his official referee shirt to come out.

Right before this contest, Don West announces that the following match will be the last of his broadcasting career in TNA. To the shock of broadcasting partner James Storm, he wishes Don nothing but the best. West quickly changes gears to the match up next, the main event for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship.

Bobby Roode(c) vs. Mr. Anderson for the TNA World Heavyweight Championship
With John Hennigan taking the option to be special guest referee, he really acted like a professional. Hennigan kept a close eye on Anderson for this match and stepped in anytime Anderson flirted with breaking the rules. Once, Hennigan made the mistake of allowing Roode a little leeway with the 5-count and Anderson jumped down Hennigan's throat for it. When arguing, Roode pulled Anderson away and threw him shoulder-first into the ring post. Roode controlled much of the match as Anderson had no help.

The match came to a close as Bobby Roode had applied a Crossface to Anderson. Anderson tried getting out of it with the use of the ropes, but instead rolled Roode wisely over to reverse into a pinfall, but Roode transitioned his weight to get back to the Crossface. Anderson waited and scratched to get over to the ropes, forcing a break. Roode didn't know what he could do except measure up for a Roode Bomb, one that Anderson elbowed out of, Anderson then hit a back elbow into Roode's face, then set up for a Mic Check, one that was blocked by Roode, when Roode whipped Anderson into the ropes and got a scoop powerslam out of it. Roode measured up for the Roode Bomb that connected! Roode made the cover, but only got two! Roode didn't know what to do so he picked Anderson back up and tried for a Pay Off, but Anderson blocked it and reversed it into a small package, one that Roode barely kicked out of at 2. Roode charged at Anderson to close the separation, but got caught with a Mic Check. Anderson sat up with a smirk and told Hennigan to count, in which Hennigan abides, but Roode got his shoulder up before the three count. Anderson argued the call and got up in Hennigan's face, backing him up into the corner. Hennigan shoved Anderson's face away, in essence pushing Anderson all the way to the ground, and as Anderson rolled back up, Roode went for the small package cover, one Hennigan couldn't get down quick enough for a one count. Anderson rolled out of that but got caught with a quick Roode Bomb, and instantly going for the cover, John Hennigan smacked the mat three times!

SPOILER: Click to show

Winner: Bobby Roode

After the match, John Hennigan heads over and helps Bobby Roode to his feet, bringing him over to the center and raising his hand in victory. Roode heads over to the corner as he gets on the second rope to celebrate the big victory at Bound for Glory while Hennigan walked over and got the world championship for him. Roode and Hennigan met in the center of the ring as Roode saw Hennigan stare at the championship before Hennigan and Roode make eye contact, then Hennigan offers it to the rightful champion. Before Roode could snatch it, Hennigan held onto it before congratulating Bobby Roode and letting go. John Hennigan and Bobby Roode stare at each other a few seconds longer before Hennigan steps out and lets Roode have his victory celebration to end the night.