NXT TakeOver 36 Recap and Results

            NXT TakeOver 36 was billed as a night of when the theory of chaos meets the laws of physics.

            The first match was for the Million Dollar Championship belt. I was rooting for Cameron Grimes all the way TO THE MOON. Finally, I get to see one of my favorite wrestlers back in the ring with some upgraded gear. He is accompanied by his fairy godfather - Ted DiBiase. Grimes will fight to take the belt away from current champ, LA Knight. It was great to see the belt go home with Grimes, as well as, seeing DiBiase get in on the action. I have my first prediction correct.

            The second match of the evening is another championship match. Dakota Kai will give her all in an effort to take the gold away from current champ, Raquel Gonzalez. I am not interested in this storyline. I just want to see Raquel lose to someone. I have said before, she seems like more of a brute than a wrestler. There were a couple of bad sells during the bout. Certain moves didn't connect but the athletes acted like they did. In a loose and ill fitting top, Gonzalez retains. During the champ's celebration, former NXT UK Women's Champion, Kay Lee Ray, makes her presence known. A former champ taking gold away from the current champ - I'm in.

            Before I get to the next feud, I have a question. Is it me or is NXT highlighting more NXT stars that usual? Piper Niven on Monday Night Raw, Kay Lee Ray making eye contact with  Raquel Gonzalez and now Walter v. Ilja Dragunov for the NXT UK Championship belt. I am placing my bet on Ijla based on what I saw last Tuesday between him and Roderick Strong.  

            Both athletes are intense and focused. One would think that just by looking at these two men, Walter would win by size alone. And let's not forget his thunderous slaps. However, Ilja is confident of his skills which puts to sleep any doubts. Both men are visibly blistered from this very brutal bout. In the end, Dragunov would win the gold. That's two predictions correct.

            There are two main events in this pay-per-view. First up, it the undisputed rivalry between Adam Cole and Kyle O'Reily. The first fall in this three fall match, is a straight forward pin or submission contest. Both men get right into the action from the bell. No feeling out to start. Just strong offenses and submission attempts. Kyle O'Reily pins Cole and has the psychology advantage.

            Round two is a street fight. What these superstars do to their bodies for our entertainment is insane. The chair shots, the slaps from kendo sticks, heads in garbage cans, etc. I don't know who's crazier - the fans or the participants. This street fight would conclude in Adam's favor. The score is now tied at one win a piece. I said last week that this was going 3 falls.

            A steel cage will be the final decider in this feud. While handcuffed to the top, Kyle O'Reily taps out Adam Cole in the shortest of all three falls. That is three predictions correct. 

            The final main event of the evening will have Samoa Joe squaring up against NXT Champion Karrion Kross for the gold. Before any action takes place, I was surprised to hear the crowd chant "We want Scarlett!" Kross does not need his real life girlfriend as a part of his character. They can each move up to the main roster separately. I would like to see Scarlett in action. 

            The other thing that I noticed that he was not wearing his gladiator gear. I have theorized in the past that you can almost predict who is going to win by what they wear at a pay-per-view event. And sure enough, my theory was once again correct. Samoa is the new NXT champ for the third time. I cannot wait to see how WWE creative introduces Kross on the main roster. 

            So I correctly guessed 7 out of 9 matches for SummerSlam and 4 out of 5 matches for NXT TakeOver 26. I think that I will welcome SLTD Wrestling's invitation to join their predictions league. Until then, Hey WWE.........................

#BringBackBraun  

SummerSlam Recap and Results

            WWE recently declared an announcer's contest on Tik Tok. Raine Cruz, the winner, introduced the participants for the kick off match. Big E will meet in the center of the ring against Baron Corbin. Last week on SmackDown, Corbin stole E's Money in the Bank contract. Ettore is intense from the bell. Then, he goes for a splash on the apron and misses. This turned things in Corbin's favor. He even tries to escape with the briefcase, but Big E stops him. Mr. Money in the Bank hits the Big Ending and is, once again, in possession of the briefcase. The downward spiral of Corbin continues.   

        

            The first match of the evening is a Raw tag team championship match. AJ Styles and Omos will defend their gold against the recently re-united RK-Bro. With 51,326 members of the WWE Universe watching, the odd couple teaming of Riddle and Orton frustrate the champs. After Omos does some damage to Riddle, he tags Styles in to take control. The Original Bro catches a glimpse of daylight and tags in the viper. Just when he is about to execute the RKO, Omos saves his partner. After some chaos, the action moves back in to the ring and Randy hits the RKO on Styles to become one half of the tag team champs.

        

            Up next is a match I really don't care about. Alexa Bliss squares off against Eva Marie. Eva physically has Piper Niven in her corner while Alexa has her doll Lilly in her corner. I have missed a lot of this storyline because it hasn't replayed on Hulu. One of the few times I am grateful that I am a streamer without live tv. Bliss snaps when Eva repeatedly slaps her doll. Within 10 minutes, Alexa picks up the win over Eva. So happy that this match was over quickly. The highlight was what happened afterwards. Piper gets on the mic and announces the loser of the match. She then puts on Eva Marie's robe and struts out of the stadium. 

            Another Raw championship match is up next and I'm totally invested in this one. I love both Sheamus and Damien Priest, but I am rooting for Priest all the way. The fella's had a great run and has done the belt proud but it is time for someone new to wear the gold. Nothing spectacular to start the match. Then, Priest flies over the top rope to take out the champ. It looked as if he also hurt himself in the lower back/hip area. Because of Damien's history of back problems, I'm convinced that he is trying to hide the pain. Back in the ring, Sheamus smartly focuses on the lower back of his opponent. This puts Priest into survival mode. He would have enough left in the tank to win this physically brutal contest and become the new United States Champion. 

 

            A second tag team championship is set and it's between the Mysterios and the Usos. Rey and Dom start the match looking to end things quickly. However, Jey would get control over Dominik and keep the young superstar separated from his dad and tag partner. A tag is eventually made by both teams and now it is Jimmy and Rey in action. Rey hits his signature 619 and then goes for a frog splash but comes into contact with Jimmy's knees. A tag to his twin and Jey flies off the top rope, pins Rey and retains the SmackDown tag championship belts along with his brother.

    

            Rick Boogs is in the ring and he is obnoxiously entertaining, although Pat McAfee is giving him a run for his money. Pat is once again jamming out to the entrance of King Nakamura. I was a little confused because the Shinsuke wasn't scheduled on the card tonight. Apparently, it was a filler moment while we prepare for a WrestleMania 37 rematch between the SmackDown champ Bianca Belair and the former title holder, Sasha Banks. 

        

            Back to her traditional high ponytail, Bianca makes her way to the ring looking like she is dressed in WWE pajamas. I was all set to see her go against Sasha, but then the ring announcer makes it known that Banks is unable to compete. Therefore, Belair will be defending her title against Carmella. WTF??? This is not even a contest. The Women's SmackDown champ gets on the mic and declares that she will take out her frustration out on Carmella. Then it happens and I swear I got goosebumps. BECKY LYNCH IS BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The roof not only came off of Allegiant Stadium but also off the homes of fans worldwide.

            Becky immediately disposes of Carmella. She then challenges Bianca to a championship match. Challenge is accepted and in 26 seconds flat, Lynch is wearing gold again. That is how you make a return after 16 months. Welcome back champ!!! 

            From one great match to another, it is now time for Jinder Mahal to face Drew McIntyre. Drew wastes no time. He takes it to Jinder with full force. With a kick to the temple, Mahal turns things around. Back and forth it goes until the Scottish Warrior plants a Claymore to the jaw of the modern day maharaja and wins the match.

            I didn't pick a winner for the Women's Raw Championship match. I can see many plausible outcomes in this triple threat competition. In the end, the queen's winning streak would continue as she taps out Nikki Cross to become the new title holder.

            Seven years in the making, Seth Rollins will try to pick up a W over the Rated R Superstar, Edge. I have said in the past that you can sometimes predict who will win a pay-per-view match by the gear they wear to the ring. Seth looks like he is the leader of the local marching band. Edge, on the other hand, went back in time and brought back the flavor of the Brood with his entrance which he then punctuated with his traditional entrance music. 

            When the match begins, Rollins keeps his promise and repeatedly goes after the surgically repaired neck of the hall of famer. Edge gets in a couple of good shots including Edge a neck breaker off the top rope. Edge is rolling and Seth is reeling. Shortly after becoming a victim of the Edge-ecution,  Rollins goes for the stomp but Edge counters with the move made famous by his wife - the Glam Slam. Soon after, Edge sends the face of Seth into the LED apron causing it to black out. Did I just see a harbinger? Yep. With a cross face sleeper, Edge picks up the win.

            We go from quite a high to quite the low. The Miz and John Morrison are in the ring saying "moist" one too many times. They attempt to introduce the Drip Stick 2000. However, it would be a slick haired Xavier Woods debuting a 5 gallon water back pack equipped with a powerful nerf gun. It was a rewarding scene to see Mike and John get "moistly" assaulted.

            One of the main event bouts is up next. The hall of famer Bill Goldberg will be squaring up against the men's Raw champion Bobby Lashley for the title. I love Goldberg but I know that he is not an iron man so I am expecting a quick decision. Both men are pacing like lions in the squared circle. The bell rings and a 54 year old Goldberg is in control. A younger Lashley fights back and unleashes fury on the veteran. MVP interferes and assaults Goldberg with a cane shot to the back of the knee. The Almighty creates multiple painful thuds when he slams Bill into the ring post. Back in the ring, Goldberg is unable to stand which forces the ref to call the match in favor of Lashley. The champ continues the assault with a steel chair. A 15 year old Gage Goldberg comes to the aid of his father. This results in the teenager finding himself, momentarily, in the the Hurt Lock and a protective daddy Goldberg vowing to seek revenge. 

            The final event of the evening is for the SmackDown Universal Championship. Roman Reigns has been champ since August 30, 2020 when he defeated both The Fiend and Braun Strowman at Payback. I am fully expecting him to retain. For the first time in over 500 days, Cena is back in the ring. He tries multiple times to steal a win but the Head of the Table showcases just why he is the title holder. With dominance personified, and a spear, Roman retains. But that is not how the night would end.

            BROCK IS BACK!!! Poor Paul Heyman is cowering in the corner of the ring like he's just seen a ghost. Reigns better cherish his final days with his belt because it will be going bye-bye real soon. The Beast is Back!

            Thank you WWE for over 5 hours of action and jaw dropping surprises. Now, you have just one more thing to get right........

#BringBackBraun  

            

             

            

            

             

SummerSlam 2021 Predictions

             As sure as my eyes are blue, I enjoy my tradition of viewing every pay-per-view leading up to the current pay-per-view event. Tonight is SummerSlam 2021 and I have re-watched every SummerSlam since 1988. It was both nostalgic and bittersweet. The first ever "party of the summer" took place at Madison Square Garden with 30,000 fans in attendance. The very first match was the Rougeau Brothers verses Dynamite Kid (1958-2018) and Davey Boy Smith (1962-2002) aka, the British Bulldogs, accompanied by their four legged mascot Matilda. Referee Joey Marella (1963-1994) had no choice but to declare the match a draw because of an expired time limit. I can't remember when WWE got rid of time limits but thank goodness they did. Also, I don't know that I necessarily miss the days when wrestlers would come to the ring with a "pet", but it was definitely a staple of the 1980. Remember Coco B. Ware and his parrot Frankie? How about Jake "The Snake" Roberts and his snake Damien?  

            What's bittersweet about revisiting the moments that defined my childhood was seeing and hearing icons that have since passed away. Gorilla Monsoon (1937-1999) was a phenominal commentator. A former wrestler himself, he would speak like the Audible version of Grey's Anatomy. He was also the best straight man for his future sidekick at the announce table, Bobby "The Brain" Heenan (1944-2017). They, in my opinion, were the best commentators ever.

            Focusing further on SummerSlam '88, the third match of the evening was Ravishing Rick Rude (1958-1999) squaring up against the Junkyard Dog (1952-1998). Rude is accompanied to the ring by his manager Bobby Heenan. In addition to time limits, WWE has also gotten rid of managers. Gone are the days of Jimmy "Mouth of the South" Hart, Mr. Fuji (1934-2016), Paul Bearer (1954-2013), Miss Elizabeth (1960-2003), etc.

            Before I get to my thoughts and predictions for SummerSlam '21, I just want to highlight the main event of the very first SummerSlam. In 1988, the highlight of the evening saw Hulk Hogan and "Macho Man" Randy Savage (1952-2011), aka, the Mega Powers squaring up against the Million Dollar Man Ted DiBiase and Andre the Giant (1946-1993), aka, the Mega Bucks. Miss Elizabeth was in the corner of Randy and Hulk, while Bobby Heenan occupied the corner of Ted and Andre. The special referee was Jesse "The Body" Ventura. Who on earth could have ever predicted that the future governor of Minnesota would be calling a match in the world of sports entertainment involving a giant and future hall of famers? The Mega Powers would win the match with the help of Miss Elizabeth who takes off her skirt for a distraction. 

            It was such a great feeling re-living memories of yesterday. Now the time has come to add to those moments. Here are my predictions for tonight's SummerSlam.

• Roman Reigns (C) v. John Cena (championship): Roman retains. Cena's just stopping by. 
• Nikki Cross (C) v. Rhea Ripley v. Charlotte Flair (championship): I don't know
  
  
  
• Goldberg v. Lashley (C)  (championship): Lashley retains. Goldberg is just stopping by.
• Bianca Belair (C)  v. Sasha Banks (championship): Banks wins.
• Edge v. Seth Rollins: Edge wins.
• Usos (C) v. The Mysterios (championship): Usos retain
• Sheamus (C) v. Damien Priest (championship): Priest wins.
  
  
  
• Drew McIntyre v. Jinder Mahal: I LOVE both men but I'm choosing McIntyre. 
  
  
  
• AJ Styles and Omos (C) v. Randy Orton and Matt Riddle (championship): Randy and Matt win
• Alexa Bliss v. Eva Marie: I don't care. Just make it a short match.

#BringBackBraun

Final NXT Before TakeOver 36

            Malcolm Bivens is live on the mic in the center of the ring. He is flanked by 2 members of the Diamond Mine. Tyler Rust used to be a member of the Diamond Mine until he was released on August 6, 2021. An open challenger has been issued and Ilja Dragunov has answers the call. He will be facing Roderick Strong. The match starts with a feeling out process followed by some insane chest slaps back and forth. Ilja showcased unbridled intensity throughout the match. Roderick gave as good as he took. At one point he sent his opponent into the steel steps. This resulted in a determined and crimson faced Dragunov to eventually win the match.

            Next is Jessi Kamea and Robert Stone, accompanied by Franky Monet. Their opponents are Dexter Lumis and Indi Hartwell. I rooting for "Index". It was a little creepy watching them move in-sync. Monet gets involved and the ref orders her away from ringside. The greatest part of the bout besides "Index" winning was when Stone launched himself over the top rope directly onto the floor. He missed Lumis by miles. He is the NXT version of Baron Corbin. One other thing worth noting was Indi proposing to Dexter and him saying "yes". Are they exclusively dating or engaged? I don't care. Just happy to be along for the ride.

            The NXT BreakOut Tournament is next with Duke Hudson and Carmelo Hayes set to compete. I personally want Hudson to win. He has the size and power advantage. Hayes, on the other hand, is a quick high flyer. .With a series of high impact offences, Carmelo Hayes has punched his way to the finals. He will now meet Odyssey Jones in the final round. I don't know who WWE creative will choose to win. On one side of the coin, high flyers are always an asset. On the other side, men in the vein of Mark Henry and Keith Lee don't come around often. 

            The main event of the evening is a tag team championship match between Imperium and MSK. MSK is an adaptable team that have been able to pick up wins over Ciampa and Thatcher, Grizzled Young Veterans and Legado Del Fantasma. The odds have this match in their favor. If only I were in Vegas, I would have hit big. MSK retain their gold.

            Speaking of Vegas, later tonight is SummerSlam live from Allegiant Stadium in Paradise, Nevada, a suburb of Las Vegas. I will be posting my predictions later today. Until then, here are my predictions for NXT TakeOver 36 this Sunday, August 22, 2021.

• Karrion Kross v. Samoa Joe (championship): Giving the win to Joe because I want Kross on the main roster
  
  
  
• Walter v. Ilja Dragunov: Based on what I saw in his match against Strong, I'm giving Ilja the win.
• Raquel Gonzalez v. Dakota Kai (championship): Raquel needs a vacation so I give the win to Kai.         
• Adam Cole v. Kyle O'Reily: This is definitely going 3 falls and I'm giving the win to O'Reily. He needs to be the new face of NXT the way Cole once was. I also think Adam is very similiar to a younger Shawn Michaels and would be an asset to the main roster. 
• LA Knight v. Cameron Grimes: Grimes will win to correct the wrong that was committed when Knight won it the first time around.     

#BringBackBraun            

The Final Raw before SummerSlam

            It's the last Monday Night Raw before SummerSlam so let's get right to the action.

            Live from San Antonio, TX, The Viper, Randy Orton kicks off the show. As he is reminding us why he works best alone and what he's going to do to Omos, Matt Riddle's music hits. Matt wants to bring back RK-Bro. However, before Randy can answer, AJ Styles interrupts. He doesn't want Omos to have all the fun, so he will square off against Riddle in the first match of the evening. 

            Styles comes out hot when the bell rings. He has control for the first half of the match. But then, a triangle submission move by Riddle sends his opponent out of the ring, turning the tide in his favor. After the commercial break, AJ has Matt in a calf crusher but the hold is broken when Riddle gets his hand on the bottom rope. The damage done to the left leg of Riddle allowed Styles to execute the Styles Clash and pick up the win.   

            Before we get to Randy Orton v. Omos, it will be Nikki Cross in a match against Rhea Ripley. Before the bout can even begin, Charlotte Flair makes her way down to the commentary table. With the bell now rung, Nikki takes control. But in the end, a Rip Tide would pick up the win for Rhea. This Saturday, I will be curious to see if Flair will continue her undefeated streak at SummerSlam.

            Now for my favorite storyline. It will be Drew McIntyre in a two on one handicap match against Veer and Shanky. McIntyre wins the match which means Veer and Shanky will be barred from ringside this Saturday at SummerSlam as McIntyre is scheduled to feud with Mahal. While I loved the match. What annoyed me was the color commentators repeatedly saying that Shanky is over 7 feet tall. For the record, Drew is 6'5" and Shanky is 6'9". 

            The former ECW champ, John Morrison, is in the ring debuting Moist TV. His first guest, The Miz, is quickly silenced by the appearance of Damien Priest. The truth final comes out that The Miz has been medically cleared for weeks. As a result of this revelation, he will be going one on one with Priest.

            The United States Champion, Sheamus, joins the announce team to view this fight up close. Miz, in his Gucci loafers, is competing with a seemingly trick knee. Priest predictably wins. What was equally entertaining was John Morrison abandoning The Miz and Damien using Sheamus' signature move to pick up the W. Because I have been saying for months that Priest would be a main roster champ, I firmly believe it will happen this weekend. Let's us also not forget that Sheamus recently became engaged and is going to need some time off for a wedding and a honeymoon. 

            Up next, the time has finally arrived for Randy Orton to meet Omos in the squared circle. I immediately noticed just how small the ref is compared to these two superstars. 

            Randy immediately goes for the RKO but Omos just pushes him away. The giant dominates and was on track to win when AJ Styles interferes forcing the ref to call for the bell. The destruction would continue as the tag team champs take it to Randy in a two on one beatdown. Here comes Riddle to the rescue. He runs down the ramp straight pass AJ and immediately drop kicks Omos. Now Randy and Matt are in the center of the ring. And with a few words of respect, it is official, RK-Bro is a team again! Now, we will see RK-Bro vying for the tag belts this Saturday at SummerSlam.

            The story of Elias continues as we see a Jeffrey Sciullo put a tombstone on the embers of his burnt guitar. The tombstone reads Elias 2017-2021. Looking forward to his re-invention.

            The final segment of the evening is a face to face between Bobby Lashley and Bill Goldberg. Before he gets to the champ, the Hall of Famer addresses his son, Gage. However, an impatient Lashley and MVP  halt the speech. Goldberg has heard enough and spears the champion. I love Goldberg. While my heart will be rooting for him, my gut says Bobby will retain. Many reputable sport outlets have reported that the Hall of Famer's current contract obligates him to two matches a year. Since Bill has already fought Drew McIntyre earlier this year in the ThunderDome, Lashley will win this Saturday. 

#BringBackBraun

SmackDown 8-13-21

            The buildup to SummerSlam this Saturday continues with John Cena in the ring. Yes, John, I do think Roman Reigns will beat the hell out of you at SummerSlam and he will WIN. The Head of the Table comes to the ring and answers the Professor of Thug-A-Nomics face to face. He tells the Marky Mark wannabe to give him something fresh and new. I cannot wait for this match to come and go so I can be rid of Cena. 

            The first match of the evening is for the Intercontinental Championship. The challenger King Nakamura will face the current champ Apollo Crews for the gold. I very much welcome Nakamura winning the belt, but I must admit that I am anxiously awaiting the day when Boogs and Azeez go at it. But on this night, both sidekicks would be sent out of the arena by the ref. The winning streak for Shinsuke continues as he becomes the new Intercontinental Champion. The WWE Universe joins Boogs and McAfee in celebration of the king.

            Next we have the Street Profits squaring up against the Alpha Academy. McAfee on color commentary referred to Otis as a nibble Clydesdale. Despite such praise, the Street Profits pick up the win.

            Seth Rollins is up next and I don't know what's more offensive, him or his suits. Does the company pay someone to re-purpose couch material from the 1970s? After a skewed video package, Seth vows to stomp Edge at SummerSlam this Saturday. 

            A second tag team match is on the card with the Mysterios facing Dolph Zigler and Robert Roode. Dominik is all set to hit the 619 when the Usos try to distract him on the big screen. It had little effect because Dom picks up the win for him and his father.

            Baron Corbin is in the ring still going on about his troubles. What I am noticing more than his plea for money from the WWE Universe, is the migrating stain on his mis-buttoned shirt. I also love the signs in the crowd. One sign said "Corbin stole my lunch money." Kevin Owens comes to the aid of Corbin by offering him $1000.00 if he can beat Owens in a match tonight.

            A stunner prior to the match has Baron starting behind the eight ball. He tried hard to win some money. But it would be KO who picks up the win. Now, Corbin can no longer ask for money from anyone. Backstage, we see him steal the Money in the Bank briefcase from Big E. Please don't tell me this is another Miz and Otis briefcase debacle.

            The contract signing between the champ Bianca Belair and her opponent Sasha Banks ends the evening. Contract signings never go well. What is going well is Belair's slightly upgraded hairstyle. She is still rocking a very long braid but now, instead of it being in s ponytail, it is cornrowed into a long braid.

            Sasha brings out two witnesses via Zelina Vega and Carmella. How are these two even remotely relevant in this storyline? Predictably, after the signing, chaos erupts and Bianca gets caught in a Banks Statement to end the show. I think Banks might take back the belt this Saturday. 

 

#BringBackBraun               

NXT 8-10-21

            Because Ember Moon is not medically cleared to compete, Dakota Kai will be squaring up against Sarray. The Warrior of the Sun, gave a great performance against Kai. However, it would not be enough to conquer Dakota Kai. Raquel Gonzalez ends the celebration and vows to destroy Kai at NXT TakeOver.

            NXT UK's Ilja Dragunov makes his appearance at NXT and has a few words regarding his feud with Walter. He proclaims that history will be made at NXT TakeOver. His declaration is short lived by the interruption of Pete Dunne. He accepts a challenge from Ilja to fight tonight. I am familiar with Dunne but not so much with Dragunov. I will be interested in seeing how this match plays out. 

            William Regal is in the ring flanked by security. Cole v. O'Reilly III is on the card for NXT TakeOver on Sunday, August 22,2021. This, in theory, is the match that settles the score once and for all. Each man is currently tied with one win each. This reminds me of the storyline between Gargano and Ciampa. 

            This upcoming match will be a 2 out of 3 falls match with each competitor choosing a stipulation. O'Reilly pick a clean cut pinfall or submission match. Cole, on the other hand, opts for a street fight. Now, if the match goes to a third fall, Mr. Regal will be lowering a steel cage. This is so going three rounds.

            Odyssey Jones is going up against Trey Baxter in the semi-final round of NXT's BreakOut Tournament. I want to see Baxter win so, hopefully, he will meet Duke Hudson in the final round. I was hoping the underdog had the creative ring awareness to counter the size, strength and speed of Jones. In the end, the crowd favorite of Odyssey Jones will be advancing to the final round. Baxter should not worry though, he is a future superstar. 

            The main event between Dragunov and Dunne is a joint manipulation masterpiece. While both men did damage to each other, Pete Dunne had enough left in the tank to pick up the win. It didn't hurt that Walter made an appearance. 

            After the match, Walter goes after his future opponent. And with a torpedo Moscow, Dragunov sends Walter a message while sending him out of the ring.

This is going to be a great weekend with SummerSlam on Saturday and NXT TakeOver on Sunday.

#BringBackBraun    

Raw 8-9-21

            The Viper is back!!! No sooner is Randy Orton welcoming the Orlando, FL audience to Monday Night Raw then the Original Bro comes down the ramp to join his mentor in the ring. The love fest is soon broken up by the tag team champions AJ Styles and Omos. AJ challenges Randy to match to see just who exactly who runs Raw. Orton accepts after 7 weeks on his couch listening to Styles jaw-jack.  

            Karma and "Angela" are a bitch according to Drew McIntyre. He is headed into a match against Baron Corbin. Drew dominates as Jimder, Veer and Shanky look on from the backstage area. After the commercial break, Corbin is in control. He gets in a couple of good shots until a headbutt turns things in McIntyre's favor. The match ends with a Claymore kick from a sympathetic Drew McIntyre. 

            Ricochet and Sheamus are up next. Ricochet is sporting new ring gear. Frankly, I miss him in simple black pants. This is a great storyline. Ricochet is a high flyer and Sheamus is nothing but power. The United States Champion picks up the win with a Brogue kick. Damien Priest stops the celebration of Sheamus when he enters the ring. I cannot wait for these two go at it for the gold. Priest will be the next United States champ. Until then, it will Priest verses John Morrison....again.

            I am personally over this feud and all the Drip Sticks. After Damien wins, once again, he goes after The Miz who miraculously stands up from his wheelchair and hightails it out of the arena. On the mic, Priest calls out Sheamus and challenges him to a match at SummerSlam. The champ accepts. Now we're talking. 

            A little break in the physical action with the appearance of MVP and Bobby Lashley. A lot of chest thumping, as expected, by the champ and his hype man. I am just ready for SummerSlam. Although I do not foresee Goldberg winning, it will none the less be a great match. Three days and counting.

            The women are up next. Rhea Ripley is squaring up against Nikki Cross. Yes, I am still referring to the champ by her former name. While I am a fan of Nikki, I am not a fan of her character's evolution and I refuse to drink the Kool-Aid. I like both women and, therefore, I am rooting for a great match.

            The champ enters the fight with her ribs taped. That is the bullseye that Rhea focused on during the match with vicious kicks and shoulder tackles. One sided affair for most of the bout until Nikki hits a DDT on Ripley. Cross was going for the win until Charlotte Flair interferes and the ref has no choice but to call for the bell. 

            Before we get to Randy Orton v. AJ Styles, a short promo has Elias burning his guitar in an outdoor fire. "WWE stood for Walk with Elias but Elias is dead." Curious as to how Jeffrey Sciullo returns to action.

            Orton makes an impressive return to the ring. Both superstars gave everything they have in their arsenal. Despite the ominous distraction of Omos on the outside and an appearance by Matt Riddle, Orton hits the RKO and picks up the win. It was looking like RK-Bro was a team again as the two men were hugging it out in the ring. But Randy executes the RKO on Matt. Sorry Bro.

As Pat McAfee would say, we're three sleeps away from SummerSlam 2021.

#BringBackBraun 

               

SmackDown 8-6-21

            Sasha Banks kicks off SmackDown live in Tampa, Florida. Her speech about Bianca being nothing without her is short lived. Belair comes out to set the record straight. The EST of WWE has been "shining and representing" in Banks' four month absence. Their conversation would lead to a match at SummerSlam. But tonight, Bianca Belair will follow through on her promise and will fight Zelina "Red Rooster" Vega tonight in a championship match. I predict Vega's losing streak will continue. Why did WWE bring her back?

        

            The first match of the evening will be between Dominik Mysterio and Jey Uso. Traditional shoulder and collar lock up to begin the match. Dominik continues to impress with his in ring skills against veteran superstars. Just like the Usos, wrestling is in his bloodline. Each competitor returned the favor of move for move. Towards the end of the match, Dominik hits the 619 and was going for the frog splash, setting himself up for the win. However, Jey catches him with a super kick followed by a splash off the top rope and picks up the win.

 

    

            King Nakamura is up next and that can only mean one thing - Pat McAfee is out of his seat and jamming wildly at the announce table. Nakamura squares up against Apollo Crews in an Intercontinental Championship contenders match. What I really want to see is Rick Boogs going up against Commander Azeez. Until then, Crews comes to the ring via an improved entrance background.  The match ends in a disqualification when Azeez gets involved. 

            Now, it's time for one half of the Women's Tag Team holders, Tamina to face Teagan Nox. Power advantage definitely goes to Tamina while Nox has quickness working in her favor. Tamina goes for a Samoan drop but a distraction from Shotzi via a Nerf missile allows for Teagan to pick up an upset win.  

            It's take two for the Rated R Superstar as he makes his way to the ring to address his beef with Seth Rollins. I've noticed that ever since live crowds have returned, Edge will scream "Give it to me!" in an effort to hype up the WWE Universe. Let's just hope he doesn't speak to Beth that way when he's feeling amorous. Anyway, Edge is in the ring addressing the physically absent Rollins. But that didn't stop Seth from responding. He appears on the big screen via satellite to have his two cents heard. After some jaw-jacking, he accepts Edge's challenge to meet for the first time ever at SummerSlam. 

            It's raining red Solo cups and that can only mean one thing - The Street Profits are here! They take on Dolph Zigler and Robert Roode. Montez Ford starts against Robert Roode. This is Ford's first match since his surgery earlier this summer. The Dirty Dawgz execute classic tag team action by cutting the ring in half and tagging in frequently. Despite their efforts, Ford is able to tag in Dawkins. One more tag and it's the finish that all of WWE waits to see. Montez hits his signature, high flying frog splash and picks up the win. The Street Profits are back and they want the smoke!

            Now it's time for Belair to mark her 117th day as champ by defending the gold against Zelina Vega. I don't know about anyone else, but it is obvious to me that Belair will continue to retain her title. Half way through the match, the music of Sasha Banks hits and the former champ makes her way down the ring. The blued haired distraction would not be enough of an assist for Zelina to pick up the win. Belair retains with her signature K.O.D.

            The final segment of the evening has Finn Balor seeking retribution against Baron Corbin. Balor is rightfully upset that Corbin cost him his title opportunity at SummerSlam against Roman Reigns.  The Prince comes out of the gate hot and relentlessly attacks his opponent. And with a Coup de Grace, Balor picks up the win and gets right on the mic. However, the Tribal Chief and current Universal Champion, halts the monologue. Verbally assaulted, Finn responds by shoving the champ out of the ring. Just when you think Reigns is going to get back into the ring, Balor is ambushed by the Usos. Finn handles the twin cousins of Roman. The champ makes his way down the ramp to take on the prince mano y mano. The Usos reemerge to aid the Head of the Table. Finn Balor is on now on his back compliments of the Bloodline  

#BringBackBraun 

NXT 8-3-21

            Hit Row opens the show. I was over this posse the moment they debuted. Of the four, I am currently only interested in welcoming the day when AJ Francis goes solo. Until then, it will be Legado Del Fantasma verses AJ Francis and Ashanti Adonis. I only mentally tuned into the match when Francis was in action. He handled Wilde like he was a garbage bag full of shredded paper. But just as AJ was going for the finishing touch before the pin, Santos Escobar hits him in the back with a steel chair. Ref has no choice but to call for the bell. Brutal chaos continues but who really came out on top? Escobar leaves the ring with Isaiah "Swerve" Scott's gold grill but Hit Row stands tall in the ring. 

            

            Another one of my favorites is back in the ring. For the first time since becoming a butler, Cameron Grimes will be teaming with his employer LA Knight. They go up against the Grizzled Young Veterans. Trevor is forced to wrestle first in his uniform. Beth Phoenix said it best when she commented that Grimes is making lemonade out of lemons. At one point, Cameron goes to tag in his partner who abandons him by jumping off the apron. That's when the butler's gloves and coat come off. Cameron Grimes takes on the GYV by himself and tries to take it TO THE MOON. Yeah, sadly the veterans pick up the win over the athlete who should have won the million dollar belt. Once again, Grimes' fairy godfather comes to the ring encouraging him to find a way out of the situation he is currently in. 

        

            "As long as I have your back, you will always be champion,". That was the harbinger statement from Dakota Kai to Raquel Gonzalez. Kai goes on with a semi decent promo. Forget the words. Somebody, anybody, take the gold from Gonzalez.

        

            The NXT BreakOut Tournament continues with Trey Baxter and Joe Gacy. I watched Baxter go up against Kushida earlier this summer in stunning fashion. He is the one to watch in this bout. I am rooting for Trey all the way. It's not going to be an easy win for the younger athlete. Gacy is a fifteen year veteran with the power and size advantage. The high flying, rebounding nature of Baxter gave him the determination he needed to advance to the semi finals. He is now set to square up against Odyssey Jones. Trey Baxter is an athlete in the vein of AJ Styles and Ricochet. In the final round, I am hoping for Duke Hudson v. Trey Baxter.

    

            Now it is time for the Love Her or Lose Her match between Johnny Gargano and Dexter Lumis. I am rooting for Dexter all the way because he is a man of little words and much action. Gargano, on the other hand, is like an intrusive mother in law who can't mind her own business. Indi Hartwell makes her way to the ring as the crowd is chanting "Index!". Despite Johnny picking up the win over Dexter, love would prevail. Indi runs down the ramp into the ring and starts kissing Lumis. Index is now official.

#BringBackBraun     

              

Raw 8-2-21

             At a sold out All State Arena in Chicago, Illinois, we are greeted by the current Raw Champion Bobby Lashley and his hype man MVP. The crowd is chanting "Goldberg" as MVP asks the question "Bill, if I may, do you want to be remembered as a champion or as a casulty?". The Hall of Famer comes to the ring to answer the pressing question. "Because I'm Goldberg, at SummerSlam champ, you're next,".  Goldberg fist bumps his son Gage on his way back up the ramp. Lashley and MVP both have words with the younger Goldberg. Papa bear comes back and spears MVP. Father and son make their way back up the ramp. 

            Vengeance continues between Drew McIntyre and Veer and Shanky in a two on one match. McIntyre brings his sword "Angela" to the ring. Drew brings the aggression out of the gate against Veer until he sent shoulder first into the ring post. Shanky is now seeking retribution after the recent chair shots to the back that left him instantly bruised. Feeding off the WWE Universe, the former champ turns things again in his favor. Drew sets up for his signature Claymore but Shanky is holding on to his ankle from outside the ring. This allows for Jinder Mahal to enter the squared circle with a steel chair. Ref calls for the bell as the Modern Day Maharaja attacks Drew. Now Drew is facing 3 athletes each holding a steel chair. He grabs "Angela" and hits a steel chair out of Mahal's hand. I am all for foreign objects being used in a bout, but a sword is a little too much. Serious injuries happen despite training from some of this industry's greatest athletes. I am a huge fan of McIntyre but this was a no bueno for me and I pray it doesn't happen again.  

            Nia Jax squares up against Rhea Ripley next. I love that she is sporting curly hair. I never understood the flat ironed look. She is also rocking some improved ring gear. I never understood why she had those "beaver tail" flaps on her hips. An upgrade all around. Speaking of hips, Jax used her hips to sandwich Ripley's head into the ring post. While Nia dominated most of the match, Rhea turned things turned around with a drop kick off the top rope taking the irresistible force off her base. Further into the match, Shayna Baszler tries to help her tag partner by getting in the face of the nightmare. It all backfires because Ripley rolls up Jax to pick up the win. Now there is tension in the ring between Shayna and Nia. Fingers crossed, this team will be no more.

            The queen makes an appearance in a questionable outfit. Are shoulder pads a thing again? Ranting like she drinks from the same cup as Sami Zayn, the former champ is ready to go up against Nikki Cross later tonight in a No Holds Barred match. I think Nikki is more ready because she attacks Charlotte Flair from behind with a steel chair. 

            Damien Priest is the guest on Miz TV tonight. The Archer of Infamy is the one responsible for putting The Miz in a wheelchair. Gracias mi amigo. By the end of the interview, Priest challenges Johnny "Sidekick" to a match. 

            The match is on and despite a "drip stick" interference from The Miz on the outside Priest picks up the win. The former NXT champ is celebrating when he is attacked from behind by Sheamus. Here comes Ricochet to the aid of Priest. Now we have an impromptu tag match compliments of Sonya DeVille. Sheamus and Morrison take it to Damien Priest and Ricochet. Priest almost had a second win over Morrison but it is broken up by Sheamus. Sheamus would pay for the intrusion when Priest sends him out of the ring. The torture on the United States champ continues compliments of a high flying Ricochet. Back in the ring, with his signature move, Damien picks up the win over John via The Reckoning.   

            The Original Bro seeks payback against Omos for breaking the handle of his scooter last week. This is the first time he is coming to the ring without his tag partner AJ Styles. Riddle tries to gain the upper hand before the bell by attacking the almost 500 pound giant from behind. With the bell now rung, Omos dominates and ragdolls Orton's protege and easily picks up the win.

            It's now time for the No Holds Barred championship contenders match between Nikki and Charlotte to cap off the evening. An irate queen is the first to up the ante by clearing the announce desk and introducing a table from under the ring. But before any of those scenarios can be utilized, Flair spears Nikki through a barricade. After the commercial break, the action is back in the ring along with a table ominously propped up in the corner. The action quickly moves back outside the ring where Nikki is slammed through the announce desk. Charlotte puts the body of the lifeless champ in the center of the ring and attempts an arrogant cover to no avail. Charlotte then sets up for a spear but Nikki moves out of the way and goes through the table. This is the fatal mistake that cost the queen the match. Nikki picks up the win and holds high her gold. I'm a little tire of this storyline and eagerly await SummerSlam later this month.

#BringBackBraun 

SmackDown 7-30-21 and More Releases

            So the housekeeping continues with the recent release of Bronson Reed, Mercedes Martinez and others from NXT, including a referee. I am not sad to Martinez go. I have said in earlier posts that she needed more training because her timing always seemed to be off. As far as Reed goes, I am still scratching my head. This man finally becomes NXT champ on May 18, 2021. He goes on to make his debut on Main Event only to lose the gold to Isaiah "Swerve" Scott on June 29, 2021. And now he has been released by WWE. That is quite a hard fall from the mountaintop. Why ? I ask again, is this the Nick Khan era of WWE? 

            The last SmackDown of July 2021 kicks off with a live crowd and John Cena in Minneapolis, MN. Yada, yada, yada....interruption by a disheveled Baron Corbin. Desperate for help, he asks John for assistance of any kind. Cena throws him a couple of bucks but an ungrateful Corbin verbally kicks a gift horse in the mouth. John ends the interaction with an Attitude Adjustment.    

            Jimmy Uso verses Rey Mysterio is the first match of the evening. The legendary Luchador goes for the first pin but Jimmy turns things in his favor by driving Rey into the turnbuckle. Mysterio goes for a baseball slide to his opponent outside the ring but gets caught by a super kick. Back in the ring, Rey showcases why he is a force to be reckoned with for almost 30 years. He goes for his signature 619 only to watch Jimmy be saved by his twin. Ever the quick thinker, Rey corkscrews himself over the top rope and takes out both Usos. Jimmy goes for the Samoan Drop but Rey counters into the Crucifix and, with an assist from Dominik, picks up the win.

            The EST of the WWE is in the ring for an interview with Kayla Braxton. Over 100 days as champ, Bianca is asked about the next 100 days. Before Belair can fully answer, she is interrupted by both Carmella and Zelina Vega. The champ answers the challenge from Vega followed by a two on one beat down. Luckily, it is short lived because Sasha Banks is off the milk carton and back in the ring. She comes to the aid of Bianca. Thought there would have been a bigger pop from the audience but it is nonetheless great to see Sasha again. We haven't seen the former women's champ since WrestleMania 37.

            Reginald is finally playing with the big boys now that he is the new 24/7 champ. I love that Reggie has gained some gold and lost the French accent. This athletic freak has an impressive ring entrance. His opponent tonight is Chad Gable. The "vacant in the eyes" Vader wannabe knocks the champ down before the bell. Wrestling in dress pants and a button down shirt, he picks up the win via a disqualification due to Otis' interference.

            Now it is time for the contract signing between Roman Reigns and Finn Balor. It's a full house with Adam Pearce, Sonya DeVille, Paul Heyman, Roman Reigns and Finn Balor in the squared circle. The Head of the Table speaks first as the crowd is chanting "Cena". "If you sign this contract, I'm gonna smash you and send you right back to NXT,". Finn is unfazed and responds, "It will be my privilege to return to NXT once again Universal Champion,". As Balor is attempting to sign on the dotted line, he is attacked by Corbin. Baron now has the contract and was going to sign it but Cena runs down the ramp and steals the contract. He signs the contract and it seems that Cena will acknowledge the Tribal Chief at SummerSlam. I'm not happy. I didn't survive the days of the ThunderDome for a summer of Cena.

             Mr. Money in the Bank is next. Praise God for that man's high booty. It's a beautiful thing. He is set to compete in a 6 man tag match. He teams with Cesaro and King Nakamura. They square up against Dolph Zigler, Bobby Roode and Apollo Crews. Big E and Apollo Crews start the match. There are frequent tags and multiple pin attempts inside the ring. Outside the ring, Commander Azeez and Rick Boogz go at it. And before you know it, Nakamura pins Crews and picks up the win for his team. Personally, I am anxiously waiting for a match up between Azeez and Boogs.

            One more promo before the main event of the evening. Before the commercial break, Edge is making his way to the ring. However, after the commercial break, it is Seth Rollins in the ring. Apparently, he attacked the Rated R Superstar with fury and a television camera. Edge is taken to the back and we are all subjected to the rant of the former "messiah". SummerSlam can't come fast enough.   

            Feeding off the incident from earlier in the evening, it's now time for the main event. Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair team up against Zelina Vega and Carmella. The outcome of this match seems obvious. And sure enough, it was. Belair and Banks pick up the win via a Banks Statement on Carmella. Then it happens, Sasha hits Bianca with a Back Stabber on the champion. The boss is back and coming after the gold. 

#BringBackBraun            

NXT 7-27-21

            Here are my thoughts on the last NXT of July 2021.

            The evening kicks off with a tag team match between Thatcher and Ciampa verses Pete Dunne and Oney Lorkin. Does anyone besides me miss Tomasso Ciampa in singles competition? These four men are all very savage in their wrestling style. Thatcher and Dunne begin the match in a traditional lock up into a ground submission game. Back and forth they go until each tag in their respective tag partners. Physically intense slugfest from bell to bell. In the end it would be alpha males Dunne and Lorkin who pick up the victory. Thank you Ridge Holland for the interference. 

            Samoa Joe is now in the ring and calls for General Manager William Regal to join him. Joe counters Regals decision to fire Karrion Kross. He wants Regal to fire him as management and reinstate him as an active member of the roster. The general manager grants the wish. Next, it is made official that Samoa Joe and Karrion Kross will meet in a NXT Championship match at NXT TakeOver 36. I'm predicting right now that Kross will lose his title. The man's moving up to the main roster. He's gotta drop the belt to someone.

            The saga between Grimes and Knight continues on the golf course. Cameron is washing LA's balls in his cowboy boots. Golf balls... just to clarify. Grimes then has to retrieve one of said balls from a water hazard. Fairy Godfather Ted DiBiase comes along with some encouraging words. Later on, Cameron would take out his gold ball to prove he is a better golfer than LA. The caddy takes out the Million Dollar Champion as he swings the golf club and sinks a hole in one.

            NXT Breakout Tournament continues with Carmelo Hayes and Josh Briggs. The dangling carrot for the winner of the tournament is their choice of champion for the opportunity to put gold around their waist. Briggs has the size and power advantage at 6' 8". Hayes works hard to wear the big guy down. The crowd was rooting for the ultimate winner Carmelo Hayes. Now he will go on to face Duke Hudson in the semi final round.

            Raquel Gonzalez is up next accompanied by Dakota Kai. After 18 months of domination, Gonzalez would land flat on her ass compliments of Kai. It's about time.

            Now it is time for the main event of the evening. Bronson Reed squares up against Adam Cole. I don't know who to root for. Reed has the obvious size advantage yet, both have impressive playbooks. Cole tries to take out the vertical base of Reed while Bronson showcases his power by swatting Adam out of the sky. With a kick to the back of the knee, Adam is in control after a commercial break until Bronson counters. Cole would eventually pick up the win with a kick to the back of the head of the former colossal champ. 

            The night wouldn't end there. An irate Kyle O'Reilly would attack Cole from behind after his victory. A chair to the back and a suplex on the steel steps would close out the night at the Capitol Wrestling Center.

#BringBackBraun