WWE: Way It Should've Gone 6.0 (lol)

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WWE's NXT brand has made a few releases, wishing them well in their future endeavors:
Austin Aries
Brilee Fox
Kaluka Maiava
Ku Mahana
Savanna Gibson

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Further on the release of Austin Aries, it's said his release came about because of the backstage frustrations with Aries. The self-proclaimed "Greatest Man That Ever Lived" took to Twitter saying he'll be back in the ring "very, very soon." Along with all the releases, Aries has a 30-day non-compete clause in his contract.

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Triple H is officially out for an unknown amount of time after receiving surgery on a torn tricep suffered at The Great American Bash. Triple H lost in a triple threat for the WWE Universal Championship. It's understood the match result wasn't changed due to injury, but plans for Triple H at SummerSlam were said to be significant and WWE's writers are scrambling their plans now.

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Angel Garza made his debut on NXT this week in a losing effort to Tommaso Ciampa. With his rights drafted to SmackDown, it's uncertain how long he will be in NXT. Some expect him to just be keeping the ring rust off before he can make his debut. WWE officials are high on him bringing in the Hispanic/Latino demographic.

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Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes made their television debut on NXT this week. With the releases this week, it's understood they're just making room for Theory, Hayes, and other debuting NXT superstars.

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205 Live has signed Flash Morgan Webster, Mark Andrews, Samir and Sunil Singh to contracts. 

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JULY 16 2018 ~ MONDAY NIGHT RAW
Buffalo, NY

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman hype up tonight's show:
"Tonight, we make it official! Kevin Owens... Cody Rhodes... this Sunday for the WWE Championship! They'll come face-to-face to sign the contract this evening." - Heyman
"We know this Sunday Bobby Lashley defends his United States Championship, but against who? Finn Balor, Rusev, Murphy, and Shinsuke Nakamura fight for the opportunity at gold." - Cole
"And six nights before her Women's Championship opportunity, Mickie James has the dishonor of facing Emma. She could play spoiler, Cole." - Heyman

The motorcycle revs up and Baron Corbin heads down to the ring. Corbin gets on the mic and references Emperor Roman Reigns getting involved last week. Corbin can't place where Reigns' hatred for him began but knows where this story will end, in Kansas City at Stomping Grounds. Alberto Del Rio interrupts, dressed to compete, and tries putting doubt in the mind of Corbin, saying he's not a King, an Emperor, or the richest man in Mexico. Del Rio measures the price of Corbin's bike with his fancy cars back home. Corbin changes the subject completely, saying he was told Ortiz and Santana would be at ringside, but asks where are they? Del Rio doesn't have an answer, when Corbin says they're catching onto Del Rio's tricks just like Blake and Murphy did, and soon, Del Rio will be all alone. Del Rio takes exception to this and the official comes in to ring the bell.

Alberto Del Rio vs. Baron Corbin
Del Rio wrestles with something to prove, as the monitors show Ortiz and Santana watching from the locker room, and Del Rio's emotions get the best of him and after he couldn't put Corbin away with a Cross Armbreaker (thanks to Baron's long legs) he goes for kicks to the arm. Del Rio pulls Corbin to the center and tries again but gets hit with a Deep Six, followed by the End of Days that puts him down.

Baron Corbin gets his hand raised in victory as the shot from backstage shows disappointment from Ortiz and Santana.

A video package airs on TV featuring the debut of Kane at Badd Blood: In Your House in 1997, followed with flashes from early in his career that includes: winning the WWF Title in 1998, Kane's first WrestleMania against The Undertaker, the Inferno Match against Undertaker in 1998, speaking for the first time, teaming with X-Pac, and the pyrotechnics from the ringpost, all the way to losing the World Heavyweight Championship match against Triple H and unmasking back in 2003. The screen goes black and a red smoke appears and the camera pans from the feet, up to the masked Kane. Viktor walks beside him.
"15 years ago, the WWE Universe were frightened by a face not even a mother could love. But what they didn't know is they wouldn't have to fear that face ever again. Tonight, the New Kane is revealed to you all. And when he is revealed, the locker room will have someone to fear again. John... Glenn... you don't know the death warrant you just signed."

After the commercial Mickie James stands in the ring. James says she can win the Women's Championship this Sunday at Stomping Grounds versus Paige. Mickie credits Paige on bringing back the Women's title, a belt she held 5 times in its original incarnation, only second to the legendary Trish Stratus. Mickie recognizes it's been over 8 years since she's held gold in WWE and knows she's capable of being called the best once again. Emma interrupts Mickie and with her Australian accent calls this unfair that Mickie gets a title opportunity when she's been on a roll. Mickie says that's the reason she's excited to wrestle her tonight. Emma says she'll only step in the ring on one condition: if she beats Mickie, she's added to the match this Sunday. Mickie nods and says that's fair, but it won't happen.

Emma vs. Mickie James
With more on the line than 10 minutes ago, Emma is fighting her way into the Women's Championship match. Midway the Women's Champion Paige joins commentary and takes issue with Mickie willingly accepting another challenger into the match without consulting the champion. Paige takes shots at Mickie being entitled because of veteran status, when she was gone most of the 8 years she was complaining about. Emma puts Mickie in tough situations and Mickie gets put in the Dil-Emma before Emma has to let go at four-and-three-quarters. Mickie sets up perfectly in the corner and gets hit with an Emma Sandwich and gets a shoulder up at 2, but Emma transitions in the Emma Lock. Paige throws her headset down and goes down to the ring shouting at the ref, before Emma lets go and argues with a familiar foe. Mickie gets up and without realizing the distraction, lands a Mick Kick that knocks Emma out cold and she drops to make the cover.

After the match, Paige instantly goes in and attacks Mickie James. Paige throws Mickie to the outside and against the barricade three or four times before locking in the PTO which Mickie taps out to. Officials rush down to break up the submission hold and the Women's Champion finally relents, but she doesn't walk away before she can flaunt the title above Mickie's body headed into Stomping Grounds.

"This attitude from our Women's Champion. Is she threatened by Mickie James? I believe so." - Heyman
"She almost was threatened by Emma as well. Nonetheless, Mickie James and Paige will be in a one-on-one match this Sunday at Stomping Grounds for the Anti-Diva's Women's Championship." - Cole

Standing by with Charly Caruso is Becky Lynch. Caruso asks Lynch about her attack on Rubi Riot last week and Lynch explains the simplicity behind it. Becky says Rubi Riot has attacked her, so she just evened the odds. Becky lets Charly in on a little secret, that she doesn't get even, she wins. Becky challenges Rubi Riot, not to a match this Sunday, but to a fight... two in a Street Fight!

Luke Harper comes to the ring, embarrassed about last week, and Michael Cole points out Harper demanded this rematch against Jordan Devlin.

Luke Harper vs. Jordan Devlin
This time, Devlin doesn't have his mentor Finn Balor at ringside who prepares for the Fatal-4 Way later tonight. Harper is taking his frustrations out on Devlin, but at some point, it's a mental mistake for Harper. Harper went for a suicide dive that Devlin moves out of the way from. Harper takes a moment to collect himself on the outside before sliding back in, simultaneously as Devlin slides out the other end. Harper goes for another suicide dive, but hits the barricade hard. Devlin waits for Harper inside the ring, and dodges a big boot before hitting a sunset flip powerbomb, pinning Harper the exact way he did last week.

Jordan Devlin stands tall in the ring over Harper, who just cowers to the outside after his defeat. The official raises an exuberant hand of Devlin as Harper walks to the back completely dejected.

Just like The Usos have done for Matt Hardy these last several weeks, Matt is hyping them up as they prepare to face The New Day in a matter of moments in a standard 2-on-2 tag team match.

The New Day w/Xavier Woods vs. The Usos w/Matt Hardy
Just like the old days in their rivalry, it's two on two and both teams are giving it their all going into Sunday's Stomping Grounds event. Woods is playing the trombone but Matt threatens him with it a couple times. Towards the end, Jimmy Uso and Big E get the hot tag and they're at odds. Big E hits a Spear to the floor, followed by Jey Uso hitting a crossbody from the top rope to the floor, only to have Kofi Kingston throw his entire body like caution to the wind and land on all three. Woods uses his trombone to hype The New Day up, and Matt begins an Uce-O's chant. Everyone goes wild as Big E and Jimmy are the first to their feet. They go inside the ring and duke it out before Jey hops on the apron and The Usos attempt a Double Uce Splash. Xavier Woods gets on the apron with the trombone for a distraction to Jey, but as he does this, Matt runs over and hits a Twist of Fate on Kofi on the floor. Woods doesn't realize what just happened, but Big E takes advantage of the distraction and grabs Jey Uso from the top rope, pulls him to the center and hits a Big Ending. As E gets up, Jimmy pushes Big E shoulder first into the ring post and schoolboy pins him and gets it successfully, with a little assist from leverage on the ropes!

The Usos steal one! The Usos have beat two-thirds of the WWE Trios Champions. Matt Hardy pulls The Usos away and celebrate going to the back and are ecstatic to have momentum going into Sunday where they hope to end the 14-month reign of The New Day.

Raw General Manager JBL makes his first on-screen appearance tonight walking up to Luke Harper. JBL asks why he's hanging his head low, and before Harper can answer, JBL points out that Harper isn't getting the job done. JBL reminds him he was picked individually to be a star on Raw, but in two months, he's done nothing to prove he's a star. JBL whispers that he's not even Luke Harper. JBL says Luke needs to regain his confidence, away from the Wyatt Family, and he needs to be set free. JBL says the best thing he did for his career was embrace who he truly was, he was John Bradshaw Layfield. JBL encourages Luke to take some time to discover who he is.. and embrace it. JBL leaves Luke Harper backstage to his thoughts.

Finn Balor vs. Murphy vs. Rusev w/Lana vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
United States Champion Bobby Lashley joins Paul Heyman and Michael Cole on commentary for this contest, looking closely at who he could wrestle. Murphy really opens eyes trying to get another shot at Lashley's title after falling short in the Ambulance Match at Extreme Rules. Murphy hits a Murphy's Law on Balor, but Rusev breaks the near pin up. Rusev levels Murphy with a thrust kick and locks in the Accolade. Murphy struggles internally and externally, with the pain and the temptation to submit. Murphy begins to fade and Lana gets excited... but Shinsuke Nakamura runs in with a Kinshasa on Rusev! Nakamura covers Rusev and gets a big win.

After the match, Bobby Lashley let Heyman and Cole know that Nakamura isn't better than his best and can break Nakamura in half. But as Nakamura celebrates, Kane's music hits. The real Kane comes to the ring and mid-entrance is when we go to commercial.

Kane says he's not interested in talking, but he's familiar with mind games, but now it's time for The Fallen to reveal the Impostor Kane. Moments pass, building impatience in the Big Red Machine, before The Fallen's Damian Priest and Aleister Black walk out to the stage and comes Viktor in the middle, holding the symbolic urn. Viktor claims Kane has made a grave mistake. Viktor reminds Kane when he originally unmasked, he lost the mystique and power. Viktor says the opposite would happen, so gives Kane a second chance to reconsider. Viktor suggests the match can still happen this Sunday without revealing the identity. Kane doubles down and shouts into the mic, "I WANNA KNOW," and the lights go out. There's a light shining from the urn from the darkness. Viktor walks to the ring with the lit urn, Black and Priest by his side. Viktor raises the urn up as the lights slowly come back. A red smoke comes from the apron curtains and the lights flicker before they go out. They come back on, Impostor Kane is standing behind the Big Red Machine. Kane turns around and gets chokeslammed by the Impostor! The lights go back out, and when they come back on, a man stands in place of the impostor... Viktor, Priest, and Black step in the ring as the man picks Kane up again and hits a Tombstone Piledriver. Viktor reminds the WWE Universe that betrayal is a common theme for Kane's family, but there's one who knows betrayal better than anyone. Viktor introduces... Judas... JUDAS DEVLIN! A final commercial happens as the lights go out once more.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman react to what happened moments ago, the identity of the Impostor Kane revealed to be... Judas Devlin, as they begin hyping this Sunday's show.
"Viktor has finally revealed 'The Ultimate Betrayer' and the Impostor Kane is Judas Devlin. Judas has his first ever match in WWE this Sunday against a future Hall of Famer, the real Kane." - Cole
"My money was on a Kane winning, but that isn't the case anymore. Judas Devlin has that won." - Heyman
"After winning a fatal-four way earlier tonight, Shinsuke Nakamura challenges Bobby Lashley for the United States Championship." - Cole
"And Becky Lynch threw down the challenge for Rubi Riot earlier tonight. Has she accepted that Cole?" - Heyman
"She has, Paul. It'll be Becky Lynch seeking revenge on Rubi Riot in a Street Fight. That's going to be ugly!" - Cole
"How dare you Cole. How dare you say that about those ladies. They are beautiful and they can kick ass, much like Paige and Mickie James competing for the Women's Championship this Sunday." - Heyman
"Paige had a big statement earlier tonight, claiming she won't lose her title. And after his win over Alberto Del Rio tonight, 'The Lone Wolf' Baron Corbin sets his focus on 'The Emperor' Roman Reigns. These two settle the score in Kansas City." - Cole
"Baron doesn't know what he's riding into. He should leave the bike at home because he might be broken after Sunday. Just like the hopes of The Usos will be broken this Sunday!" - Heyman
"The Usos hope to win the WWE Trios Championships with their childhood hero Matt Hardy against the year-long reigning WWE Trios Champions, The New Day." - Cole
"The New Day have been champions for this long for a reason. Matt Hardy's better years are behind him so this is an easy win for the champions." - Heyman
"I don't know Paul. But what we do know is up next, we make the WWE Championship match official. Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens, this Sunday at Stomping Grounds. Let's send it to the ring." - Cole

JBL stands in the ring and introduces the challenger first, Cody Rhodes. Cody gets the microphone and before he can even speak, Kevin Owens comes out and JBL introduces the WWE Champion. Owens plops down in the chair and Rhodes looks at him. Owens says Rhodes should have enough respect for him to say it to his face. Rhodes harps on the word "respect" saying Owens has never shown him or his father respect, so at Stomping Grounds, he returns the favor and mockingly says "with all due respect" he'll become WWE Champion. Rhodes signs the deal and Owens just laughs.

Owens: "Cody, for all this time, I never knew you were a jokester. You as WWE Champion? That's good stuff, you could do stand-up after I'm done sending your ass to the back of the line. You may be onto something. I don't really respect you, and I never cared for your cross-dressing brother. But I have respect for your father. Dusty is an all-time great. He's a Hall of Famer. He helped get me to the point where I am today. If he was sitting across this table now, I would thank him.

"But it eats you up inside, doesn't it? It eats you up that your daddy helped me. He saw potential. He saw passion and he invested in me. It eats at you that I'm WWE Champion and only knew your father for a brief time, but you've known your dad your whole life and you've never touched this. Your dad gave you genetic abilities and gifts and talents, but it still wasn't enough. Why is that Cody?

"Ask yourself; do you really want this? Or are you just following in the family business? Because from what I can tell, your heart isn't in this business like mine's been for 18 years. So do you really want to win this title on Sunday? Do you want to win? And if you do, it won't be enough, because you're meeting the Prizefighter. But let's be real, you never were WWE Championship material... and neither was your father."

Rhodes reaches over and decks Owens and the two brawl before Owens slides out of the ring. Cody throws the contract and pen at Owens shouting for him to sign. The WWE Champion shouts back, picks the pen and clipboard up, signing the contract to make Sunday's match official. It's far too personal now, and Raw goes off the air.

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Writers note: With it being a go-home show, I tinkered with a few different things, as well as give some more important things detail, such as the Kane/Impostor Kane and the contract signing segments. Let me know what you think and if there's any way I can improve on the format.

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JULY 17 2018 ~ TUESDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!
Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania

John Cena kicks tonight's SmackDown from Wilkes-Barre. Cena notes this is the home state of the General Manager Kurt Angle, and he's found the next big superstar: Jason Jordan. Cena says he has the pleasure of being in Jason Jordan's corner as he looks to claim his first singles gold in WWE. Cena's interrupted by Intercontinental Champion Neville who says Cena is unwelcome at ringside for his title match. Cena laughs before Neville threatens to remove Cena by force. Cena gets serious before Jason Jordan comes out with an official, saying it's time to do this! Cena shrugs and exits to support Jason Jordan in this opener.

Neville(c) vs. Jason Jordan w/John Cena for the Intercontinental Championship
Neville enjoys toying with the less experienced Jason Jordan this match, and mocking a concerned Cena on the outside. Once, Neville tossed Jordan to the outside in front of Cena and hit a corkscrew plancha in Cena's face and dared Cena to punch him. Jordan did get some offense in, like an Angle Slam, but Neville kicked out, as well as attempting for a STF that Neville avoided. Later on, Neville was ready to end it and connected on a few strikes and took his time to the top rope for the Black Arrow. Neville goes for it and Jordan rolls out of the way! Jordan rolls Neville up, but Neville kicks out at 2, and is instantly taken down and put in an Angle Lock. The hold of his hero, Neville rolls out of it, sending Jordan to the corner. Neville gets Jordan to the mat and tries locking in the Rings of Saturn, but as he gets it in, Jordan rolls over and Neville's shoulders are on the mat... the official counts three!

John Cena leaps up and down as Jordan quickly rolls out of the ring. The official hops out as well and chases Jason Jordan down to raise his hand as Cena retrieves the title and hands Jason Jordan the Intercontinental Championship at the stage. Jason Jordan raises it high like the Lombardi trophy as Neville remains in the ring, stunned by the result... he just lost his championship.

Corey Graves and Tom Phillips can't believe the result either! Phillips acknowledges the night is just getting started as Bayley faces the former Matrons Champion Tessa Blanchard... AND the WWE Universal Champion hosts the Peep Show with special guest Edge. Phillips and Graves send it back to Renee Young, standing by with Christian.

Renee Young asks Christian about tonight's Peep Show, and Christian says he told the world last week he can host a talk show better than Edge, just like he could always wrestle a better match. Christian says tonight is not a chance to "expect the unexpected" but rather, he will deliver and the Peep Show expectedly will be the best thing on the show tonight... because he's the WWE Universal Champion and he is the host.

Sami Zayn vs. The Miz
As this match goes on, it's pretty even until Sami Zayn gets the upperhand and looks to close the match out with a Helluva Kick. Zayn charges at The Miz, but Miz pulls the official in the way, restricting his vision. The Miz pokes Zayn in the eye and hits a swinging neckbreaker before measuring up for a Skull Crushing Finale - I'M THE BOOGEYMAN... and I'm coming to GITCHYA! The Miz freezes in fear as he looks around but Zayn hits an Exploder Suplex, as The Miz's momentum backs him into the corner for a Helluva Kick and Zayn connects! Zayn hooks the leg and secures a win.

Sami Zayn looks around as his hand gets raised, confused as everyone else about the Boogeyman's music playing moments ago but no sign of him.

Cesaro heads up to Sheamus backstage and they look back at last week, acknowledging they should've won. Cesaro says he noticed Sheamus faces Tyler Breeze tonight and wants to be in his corner to neutralize Tye Dillinger. Sheamus declines the offer, saying he'll handle Breeze on his own.

Seth Rollins heads to the ring to gloat about costing Dean Ambrose the WWE Universal Championship not once, but twice. Rollins affirms Ambrose will not be WWE Universal Champion as long as he's around, and more importantly, he will be the first of the two to sniff the title. Rollins answers the "why" behind his recent involvement with Ambrose, saying it's simple that even a bunch of Pennsylvanians would understand. As boos fill the arena, Rollins changes his mind and says if people want to know, he'll "tell all" next week in Indiana, a place more worthy than Wilkes-Barre. Rollins slams the microphone down and storms out of the ring with a mixture of his theme song and boos from the crowd.

Renee Young stands by with Matrons Champion Charlotte. Renee asks about Charlotte's cheating to win the title from Tessa Blanchard at the Great American Bash. Charlotte laughs and reminds Renee who her father is. Charlotte eludes to cheating, but never says it outright, but instead says she learned everything from her old man and was taught from a young age to get what you want at all costs. Charlotte sends a message to Blanchard: suck it up.

Big Show and Jeff Hardy vs. The Revival
Big Show returned in June to rescue Hardy from the Maple Leaf Mafia, and tonight they team up again to take on The Revival. The Revival struggle against the Big Show but cut the ring off and focus on Jeff Hardy. Once Hardy gets away and makes the hot tag to Show, the World's Largest Athlete runs through Dawson and Wilder. Big Show's ready to hit the WMD on Dawson before Wilder cuts Show down at the knees and The Revival are wearing down the big man before Hardy jumps back in. Hardy gets rid of Wilder and hits a Twist of Fate on Dawson, trying to score the pin, but is reminded Show is the legal man. Hardy gets back to the apron and waits for Show to get over and tag him. Show finally does and Hardy goes up for a Swanton Bomb but Dawson gets his knees up. Wilder gets in the ring and The Revival hit the Shatter Machine! Dawson hooks the leg and pins Hardy.

The Revival roll out after scoring wins over two future Hall of Famers and hurry up the ramp to bask in their victory there.

John Cena is backstage with the NEW Intercontinental Champion Jason Jordan and they're receiving congratulations from a few people backstage, but notably General Manager Kurt Angle comes in the shot and hugs Jason Jordan's neck tightly. Angle and Jordan embrace as Angle lets Jordan know he's proud of him. Angle thanks Cena for being there, as Cena said it was all Jason Jordan. "Well, well, well," and Bray Wyatt shows up with Erick Rowan behind him. Wyatt congratulates Jason Jordan, saying he won singles gold rather quickly... but meanwhile, Erick Rowan's been here over four years and has never had the opportunity. Cena tells Wyatt to beat it, but Wyatt tells Jordan the first week as champion will dictate how his run's going to go. Wyatt asks if Jason Jordan will be an answer to an obscure trivia question, or if he'll be a fighting champion and give those opportunities like Rowan, say, next week. Angle says he won't sanction the match, but Jason Jordan insists. Jordan says he'll step up to the challenge and begs Angle to accept it, which he does. Bray maniacally laughs and tells Jason he'll see him in 7 days.

Bayley heads out for her match against Tessa Blanchard next, but as the huggers inflate by the entrance way, she's attacked by Tessa Blanchard. Blanchard throws Bayley around ringside, including the barricade several times before throwing her inside the ring. The official asks if Bayley can go and she insists.

Bayley vs. Tessa Blanchard
Despite the prematch attack, Bayley's putting up a good fight but Blanchard wants to get frustrations out after she was cheated of her title at The Great American Bash. Blanchard beats a worthy competitor in Bayley, using Magnum and sending a message to Charlotte, using the Figure Four and having Bayley tap out.

Tessa Blanchard gets up and immediately signals the title around her waist, putting Charlotte on notice.

Cutting to Kurt Angle's office, The Miz is whining about the Boogeyman costing him a chance to beat Sami Zayn earlier tonight. The Miz is demanding a rematch when Daniel Bryan walks in, and after catching a bit of The Miz complaining, Bryan tells Miz to shut up. Bryan says turnabout is fair play when he cheated last week in their match. Angle breaks up a shouting match and decides to grant The Miz his request. Angle announced The Miz will have a rematch next week... against Daniel Bryan. Bryan laughs and The Miz goes berserk as we cut away.

Sheamus vs. Tyler Breeze w/Tye Dillinger
Sheamus early on is brutalizing Tyler Breeze, overtaking the match with his in-ring style. But as soon as Dillinger has a chance to get involved he does as Breeze complains of a broken nose and distracts the official long enough for Dillinger to hop on the apron. Sheamus goes after Dillinger and the distraction allows for Breeze to pop up and dropkick Sheamus to the outside, in which Dillinger pushes Sheamus into the steel steps and changes the match. Towards the end, Sheamus tries going for a Brogue Kick but Dillinger slides in the ring and as the official argues with him, Cesaro runs down and tackles Dillinger out of the ring. The official's back is turned and as Sheamus goes for a Brogue, Breeze slides underneath and tries hitting a kick below the belt, but Sheamus blocks it and hits a Brogue Kick! Sheamus gets the ref's attention and makes the cover.

Sheamus has no time to celebrate as he stares down Cesaro, who got inside the ring beside Sheamus. Sheamus isn't fond of the help received from Cesaro and the Celtic Warrior leaves the ring ungrateful.

Tom Phillips and Corey Graves recap a special night thus far with a new Intercontinental Champion crowned. Phillips reminds us that in addition to that, Jason Jordan has his first title defense next week against Erick Rowan! Graves suggests it might be short lived. In addition, The Miz gets his "rematch" but against Daniel Bryan. AND Seth Rollins promises to explain costing Dean Ambrose the WWE Universal Championship, not once, but twice! Graves and Phillips cut away for their final commercial break for them to set up for The Peep Show with special guest... Edge!

WWE Universal Champion Christian stands in the ring back from commercial and welcomes everyone to the Peep Show, shouting out to all the peeps out there! Christian says the big mistake Edge made last week was waiting forever to introduce his guest, so he introduces Edge as an 11-time world champion, 14-time tag team champion, a former King of the Ring, a former Royal Rumble winner, the first ever Mr. Money in the Bank, and a Hall of Famer... EDGE! Edge walks down hiding a smile and Christian immediately pats himself on the back for his intro, as Edge says thank you.

Christian: "You've had a hell of a career, and a shortened one at that. That's why you're in the Hall of Fame and have been for several years. Much like Stone Cold Steve Austin, Hulk Hogan, Shawn Michaels. The people who are done and the company has moved on from."

After receiving boos from the crowd, Christian asks the last time they've seen either of those men in a WWE ring, and the crowd keeps booing.

Christian: "When you retired, you were World Heavyweight Champion. I remember watching you at WrestleMania, beating Alberto Del Rio, I was there by your side. But your neck was too fragile and you retired. How does that feel to go out on top?"

Edge tries to answer, but Christian doesn't allow a word in.

Christian: "On one hand, it's a fairytale ending. On the other, it's got to eat at you. What could've been? What if my neck held up? You could have been the face of WWE for four, five more years. Instead, that's gone.

"But on the bright side, you can live your dreams vicariously through me. I'm on top now. Since you've been gone, I'm on my third run as world champion. And I'm glad. Because quite frankly, your big ego doesn't cast a shadow over me anymore."

"See Adam... can I call you Adam? To be honest with you, you've lost your 'edge.' You're not the guy anymore. You're not the Rated-R Superstar. You're not the Ultimate Opportunist. On this day, you gotta see clearly. It's my world now. It's my ring now. SmackDown is my show. This is my universe. And tonight's Peep Show was to do two things. One, it was a nice payday for you and the girls, so you're welcome. And two-"

Edge smacks the mic out of Christian's hand and Christian twitches.

Edge: "Jay... we're using real names now? If you ever bring up my family again, so help me."

Christian snatches the mic out of Edge's hand.

Christian: "OR WHAT... huh?! Or what? You couldn't touch me without the fear of being paralyzed for life. I'm at the top of this profession and you're bad bones. If you so much as swing at me, I'd put you down for good."

Edge mouths the words "I'm done" and starts walking away.

Christian: "What's the matter Adam? What's wrong? You don't leave this ring til I dismiss you!"

Edge stops at the ropes and can't look Christian in the eye.

Christian: "You've missed a lot. You haven't wrestled in what, six years? Seven years? You wore a suit for a second and couldn't do that right. Let me catch you up. I am the reigning WWE Universal Champion. I retired Kurt Angle at WrestleMania. I am the biggest draw in sports entertainment. I've worked my ass off to get here. I fought so long to be the guy.. to make YOU Marty Jannetty!

"Now my face is on the posters. My merchandise gets sold. I'm the main event. So do me a favor Adam. If you're genuinely happy for your best friend, the man you grew up with, then you'd apologize for holding me back. You'll apologize for keeping me hidden this long. I'll stay here holding my own on Smackdown, and you can go hold your girls. But if you think for a second you can walk out MY ring without issuing the apology I deserve, you better not show up to my workplace as long as I'm champion. Because if you do, your little girls will be spoon-feeding you applesauce the rest of your life."

GASP! Edge charges and hits a SPEAR on Christian! Edge hits his first Spear since retirement. Christian rolls out of the ring clutching his ribs, writhing in pain as Edge has snapped. Edge simmers in the ring for a moment before looking for the microphone and picks it up. Edge leans over the ropes, locking eyes with Christian who sits against the barricade.

Edge: "Ever since I was rudely interrupted last week, and since you've been running your mouth tonight, I've been waiting to say this...

...

....

"I'm cleared."

The place nearly shakes as Christian's face turns completely white. The fans roar for a good 35-40 seconds before Edge puts the mic back up to his mouth.

Edge: "And at SummerSlam... I'm going to beat you and become world champion AGAIN!"

The place erupts! Edge's music hits and he lets out a big shout as he shakes the ropes and gets hype with the rest of the WWE Universe. Edge gets up on the second rope and strikes his signature pose as Christian looks on with great regret, thinking what he's done, as SmackDown goes off the air.

[blackHEART]

NXT Updates (Wednesday):


At the top of the show last week, William Regal announced a new championship, the NXT North American Championship. Regal announced the inaugural champion will be crowned with a ROUND ROBIN tournament. The rules are re-explained again by the commentary team of Byron Saxton and Vic Joseph:
There are two pools of four competitors, eight total
Pool A: Wrestler 1, 2, 3, and 4
Pool B: Wrestler 5, 6, 7, and 8

Each wrestler in their designated pool wrestle each other once. Pinfall victories will count as 2 points, submission victories will count as 3. DQ/count-out victories will count as 1 point, while wrestlers who suffer DQ/count-out losses will lose 1 point. At NXT Takeover in Brooklyn next month, the wrestlers with the most points in their respective pool will compete to become the inaugural NXT North American Champion.

Dave Finley, Dijak, Nick Aldis, and Tommaso Ciampa all qualified last week and now we have qualifiers this week, beginning with two people making their debuts.

Austin Theory and Carmelo Hayes fight out for their first NXT win and a spot in the Round Robin tournament, but it's 'Melo hitting a Fedora Frog Splash and pinning Theory to secure the win and the spot.

The NXT Tag Team Champions Cedric Alexander and Moose compete in a match against Otis Dozier and Powerhouse Hobbs with Moose beating Hobbs with the G2H, and after the match The Industry attack the champions. Cole, Tonga, and Loa take out Alexander initially with pushing him into the steel steps and execute a 3-on-1 assault on Moose in the ring. Alexander joins the fray until Pete Dunne's music hits and Dunne chases The Industry away by swinging a crowbar.

Andrade "Cien" Almas and Zelina Vega are receiving an interview from Sophia and asks about their recent interactions with Keith Lee. Zelina Vega says the NXT fans don't see the real side of Keith Lee, but they do, and they'll expose him for what he truly is - and Keith Lee runs in and starts a fight with Andrade. They brawl before security has to separate them and Zelina Vega pulls Andrade away.

In a tag team qualifier for the Round Robin, it's Josh "The Goods" Woods and "Filthy" Tom Lawlor using their mat wrestling skills to trap Logan Brigman in a pin, preventing Brigman and Jaxon Thielen from advancing. Celebrating quickly turns into defense mood as Woods and Lawlor realize they might face one another for the right to become the first ever NXT North American Champion.

After seeing Sonya Deville tap out Lakyn Machisma with the rear naked choke, The Clink recall Kairi Sane being pinned by Bianca Belair in six-woman tag action two weeks ago, and believes that means a title opportunity. Bianca says she wants a title opportunity, but Britt Baker respectfully says it'll be her and they argue back and forth before Sonya Deville breaks it up. Chelsea Green comes and says they haven't pinned her, and challenges any of them to a singles match next week, which Britt Baker accepts.

Rich Swann and Dinastia go toe-to-toe in the main event and it's Swann picking up the win with an Inverted 450 Splash, getting the final spot in the Round Robin tournament! The tourney officially kicks off on next week's NXT.

A reminder:
205 Live debuts NEXT WEEK on Thursday night, with the Cruiserweight Championship main event of champion Ace Austin defending against NXT's Zack Sabre Jr.

During the NXT broadcast, Chavo Guerrero was interviewed via satellite by Vic Joseph and Byron Saxton. There were a couple matches added by the 205 Live General Manager:
Kip Sabian and Marty Scurll team up to face Mansoor and Mustafa Ali in a rematch from the Cruiserweight Classic Finale, due to underhanded tactics by Sabian and Scurll.

Trey Miguel, who fell short in the finals to Ace Austin, will have a round-of-32 rematch against Tony Nese.

More matches will be added, and while the show will consistently be a 1-hour episode, next week's 205 Live debut will be a 2-hour special.

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The world is talking after Tuesday's SmackDown... Edge is back! It's confirmed that Edge has been working intensely to get back in the ring following his retirement back in 2011. After seven years, Edge has been cleared by WWE medical staff and has signed on to compete at SummerSlam against Christian for the WWE Universal Championship. He will be recognized as a member of the SmackDown roster.

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Notably, Emperor Roman Reigns was missing from this Monday's Raw. It's said he was dealing with an undisclosed medical issue but should be medically cleared to compete at Stomping Grounds. There's no expectation he won't be able to go on Sunday, seeing as WWE still advertised the match on Raw.

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Luke Harper's losing streak was brought to everyone's attention on Raw this past Monday. Apparently, there are big plans in store for Luke Harper's future, but he'll be taking some time off from the ring for that foreseeable future. This might give WWE time to repackage Luke Harper. The same happened for Viktor, who was repackaged and recently reappeared again as the leader of The Fallen.

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The impostor Kane was revealed to be "Judas." He was formerly known as Judas Devlin in his previous stint with the company, but it appears with Jordan Devlin on the roster, he will not be using his last name. Real-life name Austin Matelson has also wrestled for Lucha Underground under the ring name Luchasaurus.

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The Fallen now has four revealed members: Viktor, Aleister Black, Damien Priest, and Judas. As of now, these four are considered the full faction. It's unknown if they will add or subtract from the group in the coming months.

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Leaked reports suggest Daniel Bryan was supposed to be involved with Triple H somehow at SummerSlam. With the injury sustained at The Great American Bash, those plans have obviously changed. It's unclear whether Bryan has new plans, or if he's simply in the shuffle right now. Daniel Bryan wrestles The Miz this Tuesday on SmackDown.

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WWE is excited for 205 Live's debut on the WWE Network this week. After months immersed in the tournament and signing cruiserweights to full-time WWE contracts, there is a good vibe backstage. It appears majority of the roster is finalized. With that said, you can always expect Vince McMahon to sign some cruiserweights to join NXT or the main roster (ie. Jordan Devlin) or make a big splash in free agency. Two big cruiserweight names, Kota Ibushi and Will Ospreay, remain unsigned to WWE and you can imagine Vince wants these two badly.

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Speaking of 205 Live, Vic Joseph announced he will be the play-by-play announcer for 205 Live alongside his broadcast colleague The Brian Kendrick.

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I'll begin by saying: I wrote Stomping Grounds and lost all but the final two matches. With that said, I hope the front-end delivers but don't be surprised if it's a little less. I was particularly disappointed the Kane/Judas and WWE Trios title match got erased, but such is life.

KICKOFF SHOW -

Breaking news settles in that Emperor Roman Reigns is not at tonight's show and has been pulled from the much anticipated match with Baron Corbin. The co-main event won't be on the show any longer, but Michael Cole announces JBL will announce a replacement.

Bobby Lashley(c) vs. Shinsuke Nakamura for the United States Championship
Lashley and Nakamura have about a 12-minute match on the kickoff show, and while Nakamura introduces the champion to Strong Style, Lashley throws Nakamura around and finishes him off with a Spear that turns Nakamura inside out.

Charly Caruso interviews Baron Corbin about his match against Emperor Roman Reigns getting canceled. Corbin says he hasn't heard a reason why, but once he can get his hands on Reigns, he'll make him pay. Corbin says he wants to fight tonight and whoever JBL puts in his path, he will make an example of them.

JULY 22, 2018 ~ STOMPING GROUNDS (presented by RAW)
Kansas City, Missouri

Stomping Grounds kicks off tonight with Paul Heyman and Michael Cole upset about the cancelation of Baron Corbin versus Emperor Roman Reigns, but interested to see who the replacement for Reigns will be. They highlight the rest of the card tonight, but up first, the WWE Trios Championships match.

The New Day(c) vs. Matt Hardy and The Usos for the WWE Trios Championships
This match was only missing one man for a fan's complete dream, but it was The Usos dream to team with their childhood hero Matt Hardy. Each six guys had a chance to shine and after several key spots in the match like a Twist of Fate by Xavier Woods on Matt Hardy, an Unicorn Stampede by both sides, and a Leg Drop-Swanton Bomb combo by Hardy and Jey Uso. Safe to say, the opener claimed "fight forever" chants. Towards the end, Matt Hardy and Xavier Woods make the hot tags to Kingston and Jey Uso. Kofi and Jey go back and forth before Kofi hits an S.o.S. and goes for the pin, but Jimmy Uso breaks it up. Big E runs in and attacks Jimmy, throwing him outside the ring. Matt Hardy runs in and takes out the knee of Big E, before Xavier Woods comes in and tackles Matt to the floor. Kofi gets ready for a Trouble in Paradise, but Jimmy Uso comes back and hits a Superkick. Jimmy wakes Jey up and the two head up top for a Double Uce Splash, but Big E breaks it up. Big E and Jimmy Uso battle before Big E ducks a Superkick and tosses Jimmy over the top rope, but Jimmy holds on! Big E knows it's time and hits a running Spear to the outside! Jey gets Kofi up and tries a Samoan Drop, which Kofi counters into a crucifix pin, which Jey barely makes it out. Kofi gets up and hits a Trouble in Paradise! Kofi goes to pin Jey but he's grabbed by the tights and thrown into the ringpost shoulder-first by Matt Hardy, who pulls him out and tries hitting a Twist of Fate but is pushed into Xavier Woods who tries a rolling cutter, but Matt hoists Woods up and throws him back-first onto the apron! Kofi runs at Matt and is caught with the Side Effect! Jey Uso crawls to the corner and Matt gets on the apron to officially make the tag. Hardy stalks Kingston, but as he goes for the Twist of Fate, Kingston avoids it a second time and is pushed into a Big Ending! Big E quickly signals to Kingston to go up and the two New Day members hit a Midnight Hour on Matt Hardy and Kofi makes the cover... one, two, three!

The fans rise to their feet after The New Day emerge victorious. Matt lays defeated on the mat and The Usos gather on the outside as The New Day celebrate with the titles. As the celebration draws to an end, The New Day help Matt Hardy up and The Usos get in the ring. The six men shake hands in a sign of good sportsmanship and are given a standing ovation from the crowd, knowing they've seen a once-in-a-lifetime match.

Charly Caruso interviews JBL about the cancellation of Corbin/Reigns tonight. JBL says he's disappointed like the rest of the WWE Universe and he promises to deliver the match at a later date. However, the show must go on, and says he will find a replacement for Baron Corbin tonight.

Becky Lynch vs. Rubi Riot in a Street Fight
Lynch and Riot went off on each other. Rubi trying to make a name for herself and Lynch trying to avenge Rubi's involvement in the Women's Championship picture. Lynch appears to have broken her nose early on in the match with a nasty knee from Rubi. Towards the end, Rubi tried for a Riot Kick but got caught in a Dis-arm-her. Rubi tries to escape, but Becky uses a steel chair to wrap Rubi's arm in and after applying the pressure, Rubi taps out.

Becky Lynch's music hits and the official tries to hand her a towel for her bloody nose, but she tosses it aside and celebrates her victory with a roar of the crowd.

Charly Caruso stands by with Baron Corbin asking about Emperor Roman Reigns not being here. Corbin says he will meet Reigns one day soon and whoever decides to take his place will instantly regret doing so tonight.

The screen goes dark in anticipation for the next match. Viktor walks out, followed by Aleister Black and Damian Priest acting as two druids. They hold the torches out and Viktor, with the urn, leads out Judas wearing a Kane mask. Once they reach the ring, Judas takes the Kane mask off to reveal his face, the same seen on this Monday's Raw, as he gets ready to face the real Kane.

Kane vs. Judas w/The Fallen
It's evident to everyone in the arena the eras are clashing. Judas moves around the ring so fluid and is the next generation, according to Paul Heyman on commentary, and we see Judas finish Kane off in just under 7 minutes, with a Chokeslam, a signature move from Kane in his career.

The Fallen enter the ring to stand tall with Judas, over the body of Kane, as Viktor symbolically kneels next to Kane with the urn in hand.

Charly Caruso asks Becky Lynch what's next after her win over Rubi Riot tonight, and Lynch immediately says the Women's Championship. Charly Caruso reminds Lynch the match is next, and Becky decides to go get a front row seat. Lynch's music hits and she picks up a steel chair and sets it in front of the barricade to watch next. Passing by, both Mickie James and champion Paige acknowledge her.

Paige(c) vs. Mickie James for the WWE Women's Championship
Various times throughout the match, both James and Paige lock eyes with Becky Lynch. The crowd popped when Paige threw Mickie into the barricade right beside Becky, and Becky responds by standing up and getting in the champion's face. Later in the match, Paige had tried a superplex, but it was blocked and Mickie pushes Paige off into the ring and instead, Mickie hits a Thesz Press off the top rope! Mickie almost gets Paige for three, but the champion kicks out!

Mickie isn't sure what to do and gets to her feet and waits for a Chick Kick, but as she goes for it, Paige hits a chop block on Mickie and counters in a Paige Turner! Paige goes for the cover but Mickie kicks out. Becky gets out of her chair and begins stirring around the ring as Paige tries to get Mickie in a PTO, but Mickie rolls into a small package, but Paige counters and successfully locks in the PTO! Mickie has nowhere to go and officially taps.

Paige's music hits and before she can be handed the Women's Championship by the official, Becky Lynch is there in the ring to meet her. Becky makes it clear she wants to be next in line after beating Rubi Riot in the Street Fight earlier tonight.

A split-screen shows Kevin Owens and Cody Rhodes preparing for their main event tonight. Kevin Owens is taping up the wrists while Cody is getting some stretches in. The screen moves to full-picture on the champion that's interrupted by Charly Caruso. Caruso asks about Kevin's final thoughts leading into tonight. Owens tells Caruso she has no permission to talk to him before a big match, and as Caruso goes to leave, Owens pulls her back and says this isn't a big match. Owens says this is just another Sunday for him. Owens says he faces Cody Rhodes, who he's beat before, and Cody will always be the third-favorite son behind Goldust and Kevin Owens himself.

Back in the ring, the lights are out... A guitar strums... Elias Samson is back! Elias says he wants everyone to know he has been smitten by someone, and her name is Scarlett. Scarlett makes her way to the ring, the same woman we've seen with Elias in recent memory. Elias begins by saying he wants to perform a song for Scarlett, but JBL stops him. Raw's General Manager reminds Elias he wasn't brought in the ring to perform a song, but to be this man's opponent... BARON CORBIN's music hits! Corbin doesn't look happy as he doesn't even ride his bike out, he's pissed about Emperor Roman Reigns not appearing tonight and makes a beeline to the ring. Elias gets the ring clear of his guitar and his girl for the match.

Baron Corbin vs. Elias Samson w/Scarlett
Corbin makes quick work of Elias Samson. Heyman makes it clear that Corbin was prepared for Emperor Roman Reigns, a world-class talent, and Elias Samson was prepared to sing. Corbin finishes off Elias in under 4 minutes, in a flashback to his NXT days, and wins with an End of Days.

Baron Corbin pops up, showing signs of discontentment for his match tonight and leaves as Scarlett looks a tad concerned for Elias Samson, being there as he slowly rolls out of the ring.

A SummerSlam vignette airs, all by the poolside in a backyard. Becky Lynch, Paige, Bella Twins, Charlotte, Tessa Blanchard, Jason Jordan, Seth Rollins, Dean Ambrose, Bobby Lashley, Rusev, Cody Rhodes, and Kevin Owens all make cameos as playing with a beach ball, Owens and Ambrose arguing over the grill, etc. The beach ball hits Rusev in the head and all hell breaks loose in the pool... SUMMERSLAM - AUGUST 19 - BROOKLYN, NY.

After the vignette, Paul Heyman and Michael Cole mention the WWE Universal Championship match: Christian defending against the returning Edge! Edge hasn't wrestled since he was forced to retire with a neck injury in 2011. They question who will enter SummerSlam as the WWE Champion for Raw... Kevin Owens or Cody Rhodes.

A video package airs with young childhood photos of Cody Rhodes with his father Dusty and brother Dustin, better known as Goldust. Cody Rhodes growing up, imagining being world champion one day, a title that eluded his father and brother. Next, is a picture of Kevin Owens with Dusty Rhodes. Owens having NXT success as champion, winning the Money in the Bank, and cashing in at No Mercy to get the WWE Championship to Raw. A few weeks in the lead-up to this match, as we recall Kevin Owens originally beating Cody Rhodes at Backlash, but Cody avenging later on a SmackDown episode. The match is all set up because of Cody's Elimination Chamber victory last month at Extreme Rules. Owens and Rhodes have exchanged some harsh words over the last few weeks, especially with Owens playing on Dusty and his legacy. Now it all comes to a head.

Kevin Owens(c) vs. Cody Rhodes for the WWE Championship
Kevin Owens comes to the ring last. He enters very nonchalant in an American Dream t-shirt but Cody wastes no time, as soon as Owens steps through the ropes, jumping on the champion and starting the match prematurely. Cody throws Owens around ringside and keeps breaking up the counts to inflict as much pain on Owens as possible.

The match begins to even out and it's constant back and forth. Every opportunity Owens has, he milks the Dusty story in-between moves. Calling Cody a failure, the black horse of the family, and KO self-proclaiming himself as Dusty's favorite. Each time, Cody responds with a jolt of energy attacking Owens.

As the match draws to a close, Kevin Owens has Cody on the ground after an Avalanche Swinging Fisherman's Buster. Kevin Owens continues his taunts on Cody, nudging his opponent with his foot. Owens calls Rhodes pathetic and says Dusty would be disappointed, as he spits in Cody's face. The expression changes and Cody gets to his feet and gets nose-to-nose with Owens, backing him up and then throwing blows. Rhodes goes off and gets fired up, hitting a snap powerslam. Rhodes grabs Owens for a Cross-Rhodes but Owens counters into a Go Home Driver. The champion hooks the leg, but only gets two! Owens decides to do a jive, mimicking Cody's late father again this match. Owens gets Cody to his feet and he begins punching Cody, and he winds up for the Bionic Elbow, but Cody eludes it and hits a Cross-Rhodes! Rhodes goes straight for the cover but Owens' momentum carries the champion outside the ring! Not believing it, Cody sits exhausted on the mat.

Cody Rhodes goes outside to get Owens and he throws the champion back in. Rhodes gets up on the top rope and hits a moonsault on a vertical Owens! Rhodes hooks the leg, but Owens kicks out at two again! Rhodes catches his breath and decides it's time for the Disaster Kick. Measuring Owens up, he waits til the champion makes it to his feet before hopping on the ropes and going for the Disaster Kick, but Owens pulls the official in the way! Mike Chioda's down! Cody can't believe it as he checks in on the official. Owens quickly goes over to the corner. Rhodes decides to pop up and go on the attack, leaping into the corner for a Stinger Splash, but Owens moves and Cody HITS THE EXPOSED TURNBUCKLE! Cody stumbles back and Owens throws Rhodes in the air for a Pop-up Powerbomb! Owens nudges the official and covers Cody Rhodes, and the official lackadaisically counts three before ringing the bell.

The crowd is shocked as Kevin Owens hears his music played throughout the arena. Owens rolls out of the ring, snatches his WWE Championship away from the timekeeper area, and decides to stand on the Spanish announce table with the title in hand. Replay shows various highlights from the match, including a first-seen view of Owens exposing the turnbuckle while Rhodes checked on the official. After the replay, Kevin Owens has made it to the ramp where he proudly hoists the WWE Championship above his head while Stomping Grounds fades to black.

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JULY 23 2018 ~ MONDAY NIGHT RAW
Cincinnati, Ohio

Monday Night Raw starts with WWE Champion Kevin Owens to come and gloat about his win last night over Cody Rhodes, after the opening package showed exactly how Owens did so. After his sleazy win, Owens makes the comment he proved himself right to the entire WWE Universe: Cody was a disappointment to Dusty. Owens says he would be a better son to Dusty, and would change his last name to Rhodes, but he'd be cursed to never hold the WWE Championship. Owens continues and gets interrupted by Cody Rhodes who makes a bee-line for Owens and the champion quickly gets out of dodge. As he backpedals up the ramp, Owens tells Rhodes he is finished with him and has made it clear that Rhodes will NEVER be WWE Champion, and he'll be awaiting his new challenger.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman advertise tonight's episode, that includes The Fallen's funeral for Kane after his loss last night at Stomping Grounds. Plus, Asuka goes one-on-one with Nikki Bella.

Backstage, Matt Hardy approaches The Usos and mention how proud he was of them last night in their efforts to gain the WWE Trios Championships. The Usos say it was a pleasure before The New Day approach. The New Day mentions it was a huge part of their childhood watching the Hardy Boyz and idolizing them. The New Day mention they have had their fair share with The Usos, and it's respect all around as they all display sportsmanship for the viewers at home.

Finn Balor w/Jordan Devlin vs. Murphy
Finn Balor has his protege at ringside for this classic with Murphy. Showing both men can go, the fans raise their feet on several occasions of near-falls and garner "fight forever" chants. After nearly 20 minutes of action, Balor counters Murphy's Law into a 1916, as he quickly scales up the top for a Coup de Grace and wins the match!

After the match, Balor and Devlin are celebrating when Murphy gets to his feet. Murphy and Balor shake hands before Shelton Benjamin's music hits. Benjamin has a mic in hand, ring gear on, and talks his way down the ramp, passing Murphy on the way. Benjamin says he took people under his wing, Tashard Wiggins and Dezmond Xavier, and it didn't work. Benjamin says they took way more than he was going to give, they were never satisfied. Benjamin says they wanted his spot, and now they're nowhere to be seen. Benjamin says he won't be stepping aside for anyone else, challenging Devlin to a match right now. Devlin quickly accepts and Benjamin gives a cheap shot to Balor before Devlin covers up his mentor ahead of the match.

Jordan Devlin w/Finn Balor vs. Shelton Benjamin
Shelton Benjamin is trying to teach Jordan Devlin a lesson, showing he can still go, but uses his power advantage over Devlin, who is just quicker at this stage of their respective careers. Benjamin goes for a T-Bone Suplex, but it's blocked and countered into Ireland's Call that gives Devlin the big win!

After the match, Finn Balor steps in the ring and celebrates with his protege a big win on Monday Night Raw against the veteran Shelton Benjamin.

Women's Champion Paige is walking through the parking lot, arriving 24 hours after she successfully defended her title against Mickie James. Charly Caruso stops her and asks about Becky Lynch making her intentions known last night after her match. Paige tells Charly she feels it was disrespectful to take away from her moment last night. Now she's 24 hours removed from her match, she will be waiting for Becky Lynch in the ring tonight. Paige begins to walk away before she's attacked from behind with a lead pipe... it's Rubi Riot! Riot is laying into the champion and after bystanders and producers run over to protect the champion, Rubi Riot steps away twirling her lead pipe with pride.

Set up in the ring, is the funeral service for Kane. Posters displaying pictures of Kane when he debuted at Badd Blood 1997, picture of his unmasking in 2003, and a picture of him with The Undertaker circa-2010 are all displayed. The Fallen come to the ring dressed in black, with Viktor at the center holding the symbolic urn.

Viktor: "We're gathered here today to say goodbye to your childhood hero, once known as the Devil's Favorite Demon. He lived a long career. From his early years as an unsuccessful dentist, to being the long-lost-forgotten younger brother to a mortician, to being burned alive, to this past Sunday where he saw his final demise. We pay tribute to the monster turned mortal, Kane."

Aleister Black, Damian Priest, and Judas all briefly shared their favorite memories of Kane. Aleister Black was Kane losing not once, but twice, to The Undertaker at WrestleMania. Damian Priest was Kane being rejected by Lita and realizing it would be better to give up on true love. Judas, of course, mentioned defeating Kane last night with a chokeslam, which garnered a lot of boos.

Viktor: "Kane, all you ever wanted to do was fit in. You removed your mask to try to be accepted. You really wanted to become one of them. *disgustingly points to the crowd* You really believed all your problems would go away. But people didn't accept you, so you put on a new mask, and people didn't accept you then. Then you became a part of the real world in Knoxville. Lesson learned: nobody wants you here. Stay away. Stay dead. Stay buried. The legacy of your family is finished. The Undertaker accepted his fate, and so should you.

"You've come into contact with a real Evolution. You thought the reign of terror was bad? Last night, you witnessed and felt the next stage. You are an outdated species. You are extinct. What you see in front of you is the next stage of the evolution. The evolution of big men, the evolution of darkness, and the evolution of this business. What stands before you is everyone's worst nightmare... and it's just begun. Now that I possess the power of the second-most sadistic family in WWE history, *raises the urn* I can introduce everyone to the most sadistic."

"Glenn, don't take this personally. You were only collateral damage for our next step. You were only the beginning. Now, The Fallen will rise."

Judas decides to set the turnbuckles on fire with the pyro as Viktor laughs uncontrollably before The Fallen exit the ring. Michael Cole asks what's next, but Heyman says everyone should be afraid to find out.

WWE Champion Kevin Owens is hustling to the parking lot with bags in hand and John Bradshaw Layfield stops him. JBL asks where Owens is going, when he responds he's fulfilled his contractual obligations and he's going home to Canada for the rest of the week to get out of the hell-hole known as Cincinnati. Fans watching on the tron boo the champion. JBL says he doesn't like Cincinnati more than the next guy, but certainly not Kevin's opponent tonight. Kevin Owens is confused, when JBL explains he made a deal with SmackDown GM Kurt Angle to acquire the services of one of his superstars for one night... Cincinnati's own Dean Ambrose! The place goes wild, all except for Owens, as he says that's not fair and Ambrose is on SmackDown. JBL says he paid a lot of money for Ambrose's services for one night, so he suggests Owens turn around and get dressed to compete.

Ortiz & Santana vs. The Usos
Ortiz and Santana come to the ring without Alberto Del Rio, as a rift still seems to exist. The two teams tear it down, rivaling the match between Murphy and Balor earlier tonight when Alberto Del Rio decides to finally come down as Ortiz and Santana are setting up for the Street Sweeper. Ortiz freezes on the top rope and Santana tries shouting for Del Rio to leave, when The Usos recover and hit a Double Superkick on Santana. Ortiz leaps from the top rope and gets a superkick from Jimmy Uso, before the Usos go up and hit a Double Uce Splash. The Usos make the cover.

The Usos don't seem pleased with how they get the win, but will take it nonetheless. On the other hand, Alberto Del Rio seems the most pleased with the result as a sly smirk comes across his face before backing up to the curtain.

Nikki Bella is asked backstage by Charly Caruso about how Brie is doing, and Nikki reports that Brie is good and at home resting, preparing to be a mom. Nikki exclaims she can't wait to be an aunt! Caruso asks Nikki about her plans moving forward on Raw. Nikki says the goal is the same. She's a 4-time Divas Champion, and ever since Paige rebranded the title, she wants to become Women's Champion.

Elias Samson is in the ring with Scarlett, highly upset about his song for Scarlett being interrupted by Baron Corbin. Elias says Scarlett deserves this song sung to her and he'll do so now... when Dolph Ziggler interrupts for a scheduled match against Elias.

Dolph Ziggler vs. Elias Samson w/Scarlett
Elias starts the match frustrated with a second consecutive night being interrupted, but that anger turns to Ziggler getting the edge. Ziggler loves showing off and eventually makes his way outside the ring and begins flirting with Scarlett. A jealous Elias ambushes Ziggler from the side and throws him into the barricade. Elias turns his attention to Scarlett before he remembers he's in a match, only to turn into a Superkick! The superkick rocks Elias back until the ring stops his momentum, and Ziggler rolls him back inside. Dolph Ziggler measures up and hits the Zig-Zag and hooks the leg!

Dolph Ziggler celebrates a big win over Elias and blows a kiss toward Scarlett as he exits.

After a commercial break, Alberto Del Rio is walking when Ortiz and Santana confront him. Things get loud as people come to separate the two, assuring no physical contact. Santana speaks up and says they're done with Alberto, and the Aristocrat Cartel is over. And once again, Del Rio has a short lived trios team.

Back in the ring, the music associated with Women's Champion Paige hits. After a few moments, Rubi Riot comes out instead, laughing as she twirls her lead pipe. Rubi's music cuts off Paige's and she heads down to the ring. Rubi Riot gloats about taking out Paige earlier tonight and says that was a statement, not coming out and talking, but actually putting the champion on the floor. Paige's music hits and the champion does come out this time, to the dismay of Rubi Riot! Paige is limping towards the ring with crutches and Rubi Riot can smell blood... then Becky Lynch's music interrupts. Lynch comes down and stops beside Paige, before turning to the champion and Paige hands her a crutch. Lynch darts inside and swings the crutch until Rubi Riot ducks and darts out of the ring. Rubi Riot hops the barricade and Lynch is left on the second rope challenging Rubi Riot to step back in the ring. As this commotion goes on, Nikki Bella's music hits. Nikki Bella comes down and takes a close look at the Women's Championship around Paige's waist before getting in the ring for her match next.

Asuka vs. Nikki Bella
Asuka's in-ring strikes are tough for Nikki Bella to handle, but Nikki shows a new sign of aggression and physicality to match Asuka and finishes Asuka off with a Rack Attack.

After the match, Nikki Bella makes a point to get on the ropes and signal a championship around her waist - putting her name in the hunt for Paige's title as well.

The Usos are invited into JBL's office, curious as to what is happening. JBL mentions that Kurt Angle and himself struck a deal. Former WWE Universal Champion Dean Ambrose is moments away from competing on Raw for a one-time appearance. In return, Angle has asked for The Usos to come to SmackDown tomorrow night. The Usos ask what for, and JBL says they'll be making a one-time appearance on SmackDown to face The Revival. The Usos seem conflicted, but ready to show The Revival who the best tag team in WWE is.

Michael Cole and Paul Heyman react to The Revival versus The Usos on SmackDown, as Heyman's confident The Usos will represent Raw with justice as will Kevin Owens in moments against the blue brand's Dean Ambrose. For next week, signed is Rubi Riot against Nikki Bella after both made significant statements tonight. Plus, the United States Champion Bobby Lashley returns to face off against Finn Balor in a non-title encounter after Balor's win over Murphy earlier tonight. Michael Cole specifies if Balor beats Lashley, he will earn a title opportunity against the champion.

WWE Champion Kevin Owens comes to the ring and grabs a microphone immediately to say this is an outrage. 24 hours after defending his title against Cody Rhodes, now he has to face off against someone not even on the Raw roster? Owens tells the production truck not to hit Ambrose's music. Owens says Ambrose is not welcome, and then... SIERRA HOTEL INDIA ECHO LIMA DELTA... SHIELD! The Shield's music hits and Dean Ambrose comes out in his Shield attire. WHAT?! Ambrose rolls to the ring in his Shield gear for his match against Owens next.

Kevin Owens vs. Dean Ambrose in a non-title match
This match threw the WWE Champion off his game. Ambrose, who won the WWE Championship, was going hard against the man he lost the title to on the same night, when Owens cashed in his Money in the Bank briefcase. The first encounter since that night at No Mercy and Ambrose is proving why he won the title in the first place. The match draws to a close and Owens has gotten control once more and tells Ambrose to go back to SmackDown, that he is the face of WWE, before stomping a mudhole in the corner. Owens goes for a cannonball and nails it! Owens pulls Ambrose to his feet and to the center for a Popup Powerbomb but Ambrose kicks into another gear and goes off on a series of comeback moves, including a rebound lariat. Ambrose is ready to hit a Dirty Deeds on Kevin Owens before he's tackled... by Seth Rollins?!

Seth Rollins from SmackDown is here! Rollins pounces on Ambrose and goes to town before Ambrose reverses it and starts raining down punches on Rollins. Kevin Owens then gets on Ambrose, which turns into a 2-on-1 assault. Rollins rips the Shield vest off Ambrose's body and throws it out of the ring. Owens and Rollins are stomping down on the Lunatic Fringe before Baron Corbin's music hits. Corbin's motorcycle revs up and he rolls around the ring before stopping, getting the attention of Rollins and Owens. Rollins takes his eyes off Corbin to look back at Ambrose who has gotten to his feet, and Ambrose chases Rollins through the crowd as Baron Corbin steps inside the ring. Kevin Owens doesn't want any piece of Corbin, so he rolls out of the ring, grabs his WWE Championship and begins walking backwards up the ramp when Cody Rhodes' music hits! Cody heads out and he's pissed about last night. Rhodes runs down and Owens, getting away from his nemesis, slides into the ring right into an End of Days by Corbin! Corbin stands tall over the WWE Champion and Cody stops at ringside and locks eyes with Baron Corbin. Cody sees the title on the ground, picks it up, and holds the title up high as Raw goes off the air.

[blackHEART]

JULY 24 2018 ~ TUESDAY NIGHT SMACKDOWN!
Evansville, Indiana

The ending of last week's show airs again with the moment Edge declaring himself cleared for in-ring action and the #1 contender to Christian's WWE Universal Championship. For the first time since those two words, "I'm cleared," were uttered Edge will speak to the WWE Universe tonight!

Seth Rollins starts tonight's show, and after a replay shows what Seth Rollins did to Ambrose 24 hours ago on Raw, he starts talking.

Rollins: "You want answers, huh? You want answers? I'm supposed to tell each of you WHY I took on Ambrose? Just WHY I cost him the WWE Universal Championship? Let's take a look, shall we?"

A video package of The Shield's dominance plays, reminding everyone of one of the more destructive forces in WWE history.

Rollins: "In case you have forgotten, The Shield ran through this place like a tornado. Whether it was Raw, SmackDown, WrestleMania, we took over. We did what we wanted, when we wanted, where we wanted. Why? We didn't have a reason why! But we had a main factor. We had a guy pushing the train along. We had an 'Architect.' We had a 'Visionary.' That was me!

"Do you know how hard it is to be the glue? I had to keep Roman Reigns tame and Dean Ambrose sane. I was the reason we had as much success as we did. If you lose 'The Architect' or lose the glue, you don't get The Shield. You know what you get? You get the chaos that ensues."

Rollins has a video package play of Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose battling, a feud that culminates at this past year's WrestleMania.

Rollins: "Ambrose and Reigns could not and would not get along without me. It tore me apart to see the divide. So what does the glue do? He comes and tries to remind his brothers of who they are. And how does Dean Ambrose repay me?"

Rollins shows a stilled image of Ambrose hitting a Dirty Deeds on Seth Rollins at this year's WrestleMania through a cinderblock.

Rollins: "Is that good enough for you? Is that what you all wanted? THAT is your reason WHY! Dean Ambrose took away three months of my career. I'm in a hospital. I suffer a major injury and am taken away from what I love. The peace I try to bring just makes my life a living hell. So what now? No more! No more peacemaker. No more glue. Instead, this Architect has drew up the blueprint. How do I make Dean Ambrose's life a living hell?"

After a dramatic pause, Rollins takes a step back and laughs, explaining a good Architect never reveals his blueprint to the common folk. DEAN AMBROSE interrupts! The Lunatic Fringe's music hits and he runs for Rollins, who dips out of the arena. Ambrose chases Rollins through the crowd as SmackDown is forced to take a commercial break.

After the break, "during the break" footage shows Ambrose chasing Rollins through the parking lot until Rollins gets in a getaway car, leaving Ambrose in the dust. Tom Phillips and Corey Graves recall Seth Rollins attacking Dean Ambrose last night on Raw, but Ambrose will have to wait another day to get his revenge on Rollins for recent events. The commentary duo reminds fans of the deal struck between Kurt Angle and JBL, for Dean Ambrose to appear in his hometown of Cincinnati last night. But up next, the other end of the deal, as Raw tag team The Usos face The Revival.

The Revival come out first and say they take offense to Kurt Angle bringing The Usos to SmackDown. The Revival say the tag team division doesn't need anyone from Raw, let alone The Usos. The Revival remind everyone The Usos haven't held the WWE Tag Team Championships in almost a year, thanks to The Revival who beat them for those titles. Wilder and Dawson say they're getting the titles back, and if a win tonight is what it takes, that's what they'll do. Wilder insists Angle could've got a better bargain, suggesting SmackDown got cheated on the deal for Ambrose's services. The Revival start listing people Angle could've gotten to appear on SmackDown before they're interrupted by their opponents.

The Revival vs. The Usos
The Usos were determined to make The Revival eat their words, but a typical match with Dawson and Wilder has cut half the ring off. Jey watches on as his twin brother Jimmy is dissected by The Revival, until a hot tag turns the tide. Jey Uso goes off but is caught in a Shatter Machine! Dawson makes the cover but Jey gets his foot on the bottom rope and the official counts three, but Wilder moved the foot off the bottom rope before the official could see it!

The Revival's music hit as Jimmy Uso sees this from across the ring. Jimmy gets in the ring and pleads with the official, but it's too late, as The Revival steal a win in the opening match.

A video package shows Edge's retirement from 2011, and meshes it with the two words from last week "I'm cleared." Seven years out of the ring, Edge returns and is here in Indiana tonight.

Backstage, Cesaro is around and Sheamus walks up. Sheamus says he heard Cesaro has a match with Tye Dillinger tonight, but then takes up an issue with Cesaro coming to help him last week. Sheamus says he doesn't need, or want, Cesaro's help. The Swiss Superman responds by saying unlike Sheamus last week, he won't need the help tonight. Cesaro smirks and pats Sheamus on the chest before walking away.

Naomi vs. Peyton Royce
Less than three minutes into the match, Matrons Champion Charlotte attacks both women. Causing this match to be thrown out, Phillips can't comprehend why Charlotte is interrupting this match, laying both women out and finishing Naomi off with a Natural Selection.

Charlotte demands a microphone and says this division is hers and she demands to be on the show next week in a match. Charlotte says she'll even put her Matrons Championship on the line, when Tessa Blanchard responds to a pop. Charlotte quickly retracts the offer for Blanchard, saying she beat her for the title at The Great American Bash. Charlotte opens it up to the next person out the curtain, and it's Sasha Banks. Charlotte shakes her head and declines that as well, suggesting she's beaten Sasha plenty of times in their past... yet instead, Charlotte will take the week off next week.

Kurt Angle thanks The Usos for their appearance tonight, and while he can't change the official's decision, they had a great effort. The Usos say they want another chance at The Revival, and one day, they'll be champions again soon. As The Usos leave, another person walks in... Zelina Vega from NXT. Angle asks how he may help, where Vega suggests he already knows how.

Daniel Bryan vs. The Miz
Sami Zayn is with the commentary team, and when interrogated about the Boogeyman's appearance last week, Zayn says he has nothing to do with it. Moments into the match, The Miz finds himself outside the ring and eludes a suicide dive from Bryan who hits hard on the barricade. The Miz decides to smack-talk Sami Zayn, getting his face, before THE BOOGEYMAN's music hits again! The lights dim and The Miz looks all around the ringside area, including the entrance way. Smoke emerges from underneath the ring and after a moment, The Miz looks underneath the ring until he realizes the official's count... the bell rings!

The Miz has lost by count-out. Daniel Bryan had slid back in and The Miz is irate. The Miz goes over to fuss at Zayn, but Bryan still wants to fight and successfully hits a suicide dive on The Miz. Bryan hammers some fists in as the official and Sami Zayn pulls him apart. Bryan takes a shot at Zayn, which sets those two off, and they fight. They continue up the ramp and as Bryan punches Zayn, he stumbles to the back. Bryan goes to follow him when the Boogeyman's music hits again and Boogeyman appears in Daniel Bryan's way. Clock in one hand, his staff in another, and Daniel Bryan isn't sure how to react as the officials couldn't pry them apart, but the Boogeyman has.

Intercontinental Champion Jason Jordan is stretching, ready for his first title defense since winning the title last week against Neville. John Cena runs up to Jordan backstage and asks his mental state headed in. Jordan says he's ready and excited. Cena assures Jordan he'll be ringside, but only because of Bray Wyatt.

Cesaro vs. Tye Dillinger w/Tyler Breeze
Cesaro is handling his own, but it's on three separate occasions that Breeze's involvement has helped keep Dillinger in the match. Yet, it's when Cesaro finishes the Superman Swing on Dillinger that things catch up to him. Dillinger tries getting up, failing to get his balance, and pulls the official down with him as Tyler Breeze knocks Cesaro in the back with his selfie stick. Cesaro stumbles and Dillinger quickly gets a small package on Cesaro, but Cesaro kicks out. Cesaro gets up and after dodging a couple lariats by Dillinger, he hits a Very European Uppercut! Cesaro has momentum back before he turns into a Superkick by Breeze and the bell rings.

Fans boo Tyler Breeze as he stomps away at Cesaro. Tye Dillinger gains his whereabouts and hands Tyler Breeze his selfie stick. Tyler Breeze takes a selfie as Tye Dillinger locks Cesaro in a Sharpshooter, a move he adopted from former partner Tyson Kidd. Dillinger keeps wrenching in when the fans chant for Sheamus, but the Celtic Warrior never shows as Cesaro is the victim of a 2-on-1 beatdown by the Maple Leaf Mafia.

A video package shows the highlights of Edge's career, including his time in the Brood, the Rated-R Superstar, and the Ultimate Opportunist, culminating in his final victory at WrestleMania 27 versus Alberto Del Rio to retain the World Heavyweight Championship. The video package wraps up with last week where Edge announced the infamous words, "I'm cleared," and this precedes tonight with Edge in Indiana to speak live!

Bray Wyatt shows up on the screen and explains Luke Harper's success, his own, and then there's Erick Rowan. Wyatt says Rowan is long overdue and he gets what's due tonight, as he wins the Intercontinental Championship from Jason Jordan. Wyatt tells Jordan he'll run back to his illegitimate fathers, John Cena and Kurt Angle... RUN!

Jason Jordan(c) w/John Cena vs. Erick Rowan w/Bray Wyatt for the Intercontinental Championship
While Cena has neutralized Wyatt's presence at ringside, the size difference is an issue for the champion. Erick Rowan isn't the most well-versed in the ring, so Jordan is outshining Rowan when he can get the big man on the ground. As the match draws to a close, Rowan looks in trouble after Jason Jordan got Rowan up for a German Suplex that shocked the crowd in attendance! Wyatt got on the apron and Cena finally went over to yell at Wyatt to get down. Jason Jordan is distracted by Wyatt, but at the right moment, dodges a charging Erick Rowan that instead collides with Wyatt. Cena catches Wyatt off the apron and decides to hit an AA through the announce table! Rowan is caught by Jordan and hits an AA of his own and retains the title!

Jason Jordan gets up holding his back but is handed the Intercontinental Championship he successfully won before Neville's music hit. The former champion walks out to the ramp to announce he gets a rematch and will see Jason Jordan at SummerSlam.

Tom Phillips and Corey Graves recap a big night for SmackDown, including a title retention by Jordan and a special appearance by Raw tag team The Usos. At SummerSlam, it's confirmed Jason Jordan will defend his Intercontinental Championship against Neville. But the Matrons Championship will also be defended! From Kurt Angle's office, next week Tessa Blanchard faces Sasha Banks to determine the #1 contender for Charlotte's title. Corey Graves then shows a tweet from The Miz, saying after recent events, he's inviting Sami Zayn to MizTV next week!

The moment everyone's been waiting for... EDGE! Edge's music hits and the place erupts. Edge walks out in street clothes and is more hype than anyone. After moments of just standing in the ring and hearing chants ranging from "Welcome back" to "Thank you Edge" to "You deserve it," Edge tries not to get choked up but finally has a chance to speak.

Edge: "Seven years ago, I was forced to give up my love. I had to give up my life. I had to retire from the WWE."

Fans continue chanting, but Edge asks them to let him have this time.

Edge: "Seven years ago, I was at the top of my game. I was the Rated-R Superstar. I was the Ultimate Opportunist. Hell, I was World Heavyweight Champion.

"After successfully defending the title at WrestleMania, it seems it wouldn't matter. Because just eight days later, I had to give it all up. I didn't lose the title. I didn't lose a match with my career on the line. But I lost everything.

"Seven years go by, it seems I've missed a lot. First, the World Heavyweight Championship isn't here. The Universal Championship is the richest prize on SmackDown. The guy from The Ascension is trying to resurrect the Brood, trying to resurrect Kane. Kurt Angle and Sharmell might have got it on and made an Intercontinental Champion. But it's great to see the Boogeyman still exists.

"To be serious for a second, I go back to the championship. I had to relinquish the World Heavyweight Championship when I retired. I left at the top. I won the Super Bowl, the Stanley Cup, and I retired. You would think there would be some contentment. From a guy who was born in a town in Ontario called Orangeville, to go out on top would be a dream come true... but is it? On that day, I di-"

The fans begin shouting out the lyrics of Edge's theme song, but that's not where he was going with it. Edge can't help but chuckle before he gathers himself.

Edge: "On that day, I didn't feel like a winner. I didn't feel content. I didn't feel like I was on top. I felt robbed. I felt, no, I KNEW I had more in the tank.

"Fast forward, seven years later. You know, seven years is a long time. I've had surgeries on my neck. I've had more procedures than what's normal for a man. But the real healer is time. Over seven years, I've sat back and watched. But I've also hit the gym. I've trained. I've got myself into the best shape of my life. Only to knock on the doctor's door one more time. That day, I left with a different story.

"I'm cleared."

"And now, I get to write the rest of my story. It's not over yet. It will be on my terms.

"That brings me to where I left off. I left the business on top, and quite frankly, I belong on top. The World Heavyweight Championship isn't around anymore, so I set my sights on adding a new title to my collection: the WWE Universal Championship.

"So the man... Christian. Captain Charisma. My best friend. I didn't come back to make this personal. I know you're still the same guy you were 30 years ago when we dreamed of being here. I know deep down you're still my best friend. You're still my brother.

"But Jay, you made a grave mistake. You know me, so you know the buttons to push to get under my skin. But what you forgot was what button you should never push.... NEVER talk about my family.

"I'm not fighting for myself. I'm not fighting for the WWE Universal Championship. I'm fighting for my family. I want my girls to see their dad fight back and win. At SummerSlam, they'll see just that as they hear 'AND NEW.'

Edge drops the mic and his music hits as he takes his moment in the ring, celebrating his return to the ring as his WWE Universal Championship match with Christian looms at SummerSlam before SmackDown fades to black.

[blackHEART]

NXT Updates (Wednesday):


For the last two weeks, William Regal has conducted a Round Robin tournament to crown an inaugural NXT North American Champion. The rules are re-explained again by the commentary team of Byron Saxton and Vic Joseph:
There are two pools of four competitors, eight total
Pool A: Wrestler 1, 2, 3, and 4
Pool B: Wrestler 5, 6, 7, and 8

Each wrestler in their designated pool wrestle each other once. Pinfall victories will count as 2 points, submission victories will count as 3. DQ/count-out victories will count as 1 point, while wrestlers who suffer DQ/count-out losses will lose 1 point. At NXT Takeover in Brooklyn next month, the wrestlers with the most points in their respective pool will compete to become the inaugural NXT North American Champion.

All eight men have qualified the last two weeks and the official scoring begins tonight.

Carmelo Hayes beat Josh "The Goods" Woods with a pinfall victory in the opener, earning 2 points.

Woods' partner Tom Lawlor faced off against Nick Aldis next and Aldis wins with the King's Lynn Cloverleaf, scoring 3 points.

Zelina Vega is standing backstage with Andrade "Cien" Almas and Andrade asks if Zelina's got him a spot on Raw, which she responds that he'll have to wait. Andrade's upset, and it gets worse when William Regal stops by and breaks the news that Andrade's time in NXT isn't over, because he competes against Keith Lee at Takeover.

Dijak hits Dave Finley with the Feast Your Eyes in under 3 minutes and takes 2 points in the Round Robin tournament, beating Finley in quick and dominant fashion.

After seeing Sonya Deville tap out Lakyn Machisma with the rear naked choke, The Clink recall Kairi Sane being pinned by Bianca Belair in six-woman tag action two weeks ago, and believes that means a title opportunity. Bianca says she wants a title opportunity, but Britt Baker respectfully says it'll be her and they argue back and forth before Sonya Deville breaks it up. Chelsea Green comes and says they haven't pinned her, and challenges any of them to a singles match next week, which Britt Baker accepts.

Chelsea Green is ready for her singles match against a member of The Clink and it's Bianca Belair. As Deville and Baker lurk the ring, they decide to jump in the match and the match is thrown out. Kairi Sane and Ember Moon come out and it's an even brawl, but The Clink get the upperhand. Britt Baker decides to hold the NXT Women's Championship high above her head, but Bianca Belair snatches it and parades it around, in which we're back to arguing like last week.

Rich Swann and Tommaso Ciampa go head-to-head and Ciampa hits Project Ciampa for 2 points in the standings.

Pete Dunne stands with NXT Tag Team Champions Cedric Alexander and Moose, issuing a challenge to The Industry next week. NXT Champion Adam Cole comes out with the Guerillas of Destiny and says there isn't anything to gain, so the match won't happen. Pete Dunne sweetens the deal, by saying if The Industry wins, he'll step away from the NXT Championship picture and leave The Industry alone... but if Dunne's team wins, he gets Cole in a rematch. Cole decides to gamble and accepts the challenge for next week's main event.

Round Robin tournament standings -
Aldis (3 points)
Hayes (2 points)
Dijak (2 points)
Ciampa (2 points)
Woods (0 points)
Lawlor (0 points)
Finley (0 points)
Swann (0 points)

A reminder:
205 Live debuts TOMORROW on a Thursday night, with the Cruiserweight Championship main event of champion Ace Austin defending against NXT's Zack Sabre Jr.

Other matches on the show:
Kip Sabian & Marty Scurll vs. Mansoor & Mustafa Ali
Tony Nese vs. Trey Miguel

And just added:
Kushida vs. Rohit Raju
Sammy Guevara vs. Swerve Strickland

More matches will be added, and while the show will consistently be a 1-hour episode, tomorrow's 205 Live debut will be a 2-hour special.

[blackHEART]

JULY 26 2018 ~ 205 LIVE PREMIERE

The opening intro for 205 Live is exciting! In the ring, Chavo Guerrero is standing with the cruiserweights at the stage. Chavo announces how 205 Live will be different, rather than the weight division. Chavo announces that everyone begins with a clean slate and they'll begin tracking records tonight. The better the record, the likelier they'll be in title matches. Chavo then gets interrupted by Cruiserweight Champion Ace Austin. Ace says they aren't with a clean slate, saying everyone on the roster is beneath the champion. Chavo wishes Ace luck tonight against Zack Sabre Jr, or that won't be the case. Swerve Strickland interrupts, walking down and says after tonight's title match, he'll be next in line for the title. Of course, Sammy Guevara walks down to disagree and this begins the first match of 205 Live.

Sammy Guevara (0-0) vs. Swerve Strickland (0-0)
For the first match in 205 Live history, this was a good one to start on. A bunch of flips and eluding big moves, but it finishes with Strickland missing the Swerve Kick and Guevara catching him with a GTH and pinning Strickland after knocking him out cold. 

After Guevara's big win, a video package airs for both Kushida and Rohit Raju, introducing them to the WWE Universe prior to their upcoming match.

Kushida (0-0) vs. Rohit Raju (0-0)
Rohit Raju tries disguising his tactics but the official is onto Rohit Raju, but Kushida turns around and does these tactics better behind the official's back, almost in a comedic way, before Kushida hits Back to the Future and defeats Raju.

Trey Miguel is backstage with Kayla Braxton who asks about what his goals are for 205 Live. Miguel says he tasted the Cruiserweight Championship in the finals a few weeks ago, but unfortunately fell short. He credits Ace Austin, but says he will be back. Tony Nese comes up, mocking Trey Miguel saying he'll never get back there because if records matter, he'll start 205 Live the same way he ended the tournament - ON HIS BACK!

Roderick Strong (0-0) vs. TJ Perkins (0-0)
It's a tough match by two strong-willed vets in the ring that will do anything to win, but it's the TJP Clutch that has Strong trapped in the center of the ring and forced to tap.

Afterwards, TJ Perkins got a sportsmanlike handshake from Roderick Strong before the one in defeat exited the ring.

A replay of what happened in the Cruiserweight Classic Finale airs, showing Sabian and Scurll cheating to defeat Mansoor and Ali. Now, we have a rematch.

Kip Sabian (0-0) and Marty Scurll (0-0) vs. Mansoor (0-0) and Mustafa Ali (0-0)
In the ways of old from three weeks ago, Scurll panics and tries taking the bottom turnbuckle cover off, but meets a drive-by dropkick to the face by Mustafa Ali. In the ring, Mansoor traps Sabian in an unique pinning position, tangling the legs and placing the weight on top of Sabian's shoulders where he can't escape for the pin.

Mansoor untangles himself and he runs up the ramp with Mustafa Ali, getting themselves a big win.

A video package airs for El Hijo del Fantasma, explaining the symbolism behind the lucha libre heritage of the mask, and the mask he wears in particular. Coming out of the package, The Brian Kendrick lets Vic Joseph know that El Hijo del Fantasma is going to be a big player on 205 Live.

Tony Nese (0-0) vs. Trey Miguel (0-0)
Tony Nese wanted nothing more than to get under the skin of Trey Miguel, but despite an impressive showcase of his innate talent, Miguel hit Nese with a Meteora and takes home the dub!

Backstage, Ace Austin is walking towards the curtain when he's stopped by former Cruiserweight Champion Dean Malenko. Malenko was last champion in 1998. Malenko gives Ace advice, saying he wish he was told 20 years ago not to believe in his own abilities. Ace Austin scoffs and shoves Dean Malenko against the wall and keeps walking past.

Ace Austin (0-0) vs. Zack Sabre Jr. (0-0) for the WWE Cruiserweight Championship
Zack Sabre Jr, who celebrated his 31st birthday a couple days ago, got a huge pop when he came to the ring. The same can not be said for Ace Austin's response from the crowd. The match is pretty even, with Ace Austin displaying his God-given talents but Sabre Jr. getting Ace trapped in some nifty holds. Towards the end, Sabre Jr tries the European Clutch and Ace gets out at 2, and he smoothly transitions to Hypernormalisation. Struggling to get out, Ace Austin finally manages to get to the ropes and collapse. Zack Sabre Jr. realizes it's his time and tries for the Zack Driver, but Ace pokes Sabre in the eye and quickly hits The Fold! Ace gets Sabre Jr to his back and hooks both legs.

Just as the 64-man Cruiserweight Classic tournament ends, is how the first episode of 205 Live ends. Ace Austin stands up and after the official hands the title off, Ace shoves him aside and gets to the corner and raises the title above his head. Ace goes to the opposite side of the ring and does the same before dropping to his knees in the ring and clutching his Cruiserweight Championship. Ace's celebration interrupted with.. Dinastia?! Dinastia is here! After Ace Austin defeats one NXT superstar, another shows up. Dinastia appears to have his sights set on the Cruiserweight Championship as the first ever 205 Live draws to a close.