Open Letter to Jeff Hardy

            Endings are better than beginnings.

            I grew up in a very dysfunctional household. My father is a gambler and my mother is an alcoholic. Both committed adultery many times over. As the oldest of five, my siblings and I grew up hungry, abused and often homeless. I grew up wearing clothes that came out of the trunk of someone's car because a box "fell off a truck". When money was scarce, my father would bring home either a 40 ounce of Budweiser, vodka and orange juice or a green jug of wine in order to get my mother drunk. This turned into them having sex ending with her agreeing to give him her engagement ring. The ring would then be pawned so that he could have money to go to the Meadowlands in the hopes of betting on the right horse. If successful, we might have food or a home for a little while longer. 

            Then there was the abuse. Not only did they abuse each other with hands, fists, words (or lack there of) and/or objects, but us kids also suffered their wrath. Two of my most vivid memories came towards the end of their marriage. It was either 1991 or 1992, I woke up in the middle of the night to my drunk mother punching the crap out of me. Why...I don't know. The other memory came on Christmas night 1992 when my mother returned home from having spent time with a married man. My father busted open the bathroom door as my mother was sitting on the toliet. A lot of angry words were exchanged ending with my mother leaving the house after my father threw a lazy boy chair at her as she sat on the throne.

               Because of their addictions, they were emotionally and physically absent parents. We were often left home alone. I'm talking me being 5, 6, 7, 8 years old being left home alone to take care of my younger siblings. I did my best. I grew up very fast and was more of an appropriate adult than the adults in my life. One of the things we did when we were left home alone was watch t.v. Besides cartoons, we always watched WWF. We grew up on Hulk Hogan, George "The Animal" Steele, Macho Man, Miss Elizabeth, The Hart Foundation, etc. I will be 45 years old in March 2022 and when I share my story, I often tell people that I was babysat by wrestlers. WWF, and now WWE, was a part of my childhood that made feel happy and safe.

            I got to go to a live event once in my whole life. I was somewhere between 9 and 12 years old. We had floor seats at the Meadowlands. I was so happy because I was going to see one of my favorite wrestlers at the time - Mr. Perfect. I didn't care about the people in front of us constantly standing up blocking my view of the ring. I patiently waited for Mr. Perfect's music and I was going to see him no matter how many adults I needed to knock down like bowling pins. But it kind of never happened. My father got tired of the people in front of us and said we were moving to seats higher up. I started to cry. I cried and cried to the point that my father showed me the back of his hand and told me to "shut up or I'll give you some to cry about". I cried louder. In my young mind I was hoping Mr. Perfect would hear me and save me. He never did.

           From the time I was 12 until the age of 16, I called the state on my parents. I knew we weren't safe and tried to get me and my siblings out of there to no avail. I finally left home at the age of 16. I couldn't take it anymore. I knew that I did my best to care and protect my siblings. For my own safety, I knew that I had to get far away from their dysfunction and addictions. It pained me to leave my siblings behind. The youngest was five years old. 

            School was also a safe space for me. I was always in the gifted and talented programs - academically and artistically. I continued to do well but stopped going to school when I became pregnant at the age of 17. I had my son in May 1995, got my GED in September 1995 and started college in January 1996. I majored in early childhood education. That continued until I began pregnant with my second child in 1997. Soon after I got a lifetime restraining order against an abusive boyfriend and left college 10 credits shy of my degree. At the age of 22, I left the state of New Jersey as a single mom of a one and four year old and moved to New England. I struggled and I worked for the next 5 years until I married. I married a man with addictions. During the marriage, I became a stay at home, homeschooling mom of five. We are now divorced.  

            Also during the marriage, I started to advocate for victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and stalking with a local non-profit agency. I was a supervisor of the 24 hour crisis hotline and member of the task force. Despite my upbringing, I grew up to be an empathetic human. I educated myself so that I could advocate for others. I felt that no one ever advocated for me and my siblings. But I remember when I left home at 16 saying to myself "It ends with me". I was the voice and strength for others during some of the darkest times of their life. I saw many of the ancillary effects of what abuse and addiction can do to suffering individuals and those around them. Some became abusers and addicts while others became advocates. I was one who became the latter.

            I vulnerably share some of the painful parts of my life to offer you some encouragement. Endings are better than beginnings. So many times during my life, I wish that I had people to help me and there were none. What there always was was wrestling. My safe and happy place. The faces and characters have changed but my love of the sport never did. Today, at 44 years old, I still faithfully watch. I was a consistent member of the ThunderDome and I later started a blog about wrestling. My blog, for the most part, is just for me. I talk about it with co-workers and members of my church. My colleagues know that if I take the day off it is because there is a pay-per-view happening. When I come back to work, they all ask how the pay-per-view was or throw a verbal "WOOOO" or "U Can't See Me" my way as their acknowledgement of love and support for me and what makes me happy. When I go to church, I wear one of my wrestling tees I call my "church" shirts. I will wear Edge's "Earn Your Scars" or Drew McIntyre's "Scottish Warrior". But my favorite of the all is your "Immune to Fear" tank top. 

            Much of the world is now aware that you have been let go from your WWE contract after declining a rehab offer. Until I hear something from your mouth, I truly do not know what is going on with you or inside you. Here's what I do know. You've gotten through this before and you can do it again. You have the support that I never did. You have the love and support of your family. By media accounts, you have the support of the WWE. You have the support of other wrestlers. And you better believe that you have the support of your fans. 

            I do not want you to die like many of the wrestlers of my childhood. Take a breath, gather yourself and accept the offer of help. You have a future to look forward to. I want to hear that pop when your music once again is blasting in stadiums. I want to hear you give a speech when you're inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as your wife and children look on with pure joy. Endings are better than beginnings.

            

            

Survivor Series 2021 Recap & Results

            Universal Champion Damien Priest and Intercontinental Champion Shinsuke Nakamura kicked off Survivor Series 2021. I went into this match with my heart firmly set on Priest winning. I must also confess that I miss his Archer of Infamy entrance. While Damien is working some impressive joint manipulation, Rick Boogs is on the outside rifting on his guitar trying to invigorate Nakamura. It worked momentarily. As Priest regains control, Boogs strikes some chords once again irritating the Universal champ and giving control back to Shinsuke. Priest counters with a spinning heel kick to the guts of his opponent. This match went back and forth with several close 3 counts. However, the match would end in a disqualification for Priest when he used the guitar of Rick Boogs as a weapon. So far it is Raw 0 and SmackDown 1.

            The first match of the evening is another champion verses champion. It is Becky Lynch squaring up against Charlotte Flair. I was going to test my theory that I can predict who will win based on the competitors in ring gear but this one was too close to call. Charlotte came to the ring in solid black with devil horns on her shoulders. Becky Lynch comes to the ring wearing devil red latex gear with matching knee high boots. This is going to be a "hellish" match. A beautifully vicious contest with each women releasing their frustrations to the point that neither could sustain an offense. The highlight of the match for me was when Lynch locked in Flair's signature figure four leg lock. Charlotte countered into the figure eight until she was forced to break the hold when Becky reached the ropes. Turn around is fair play as moments later, Charlotte would have Becky in an arm bar. Make no mistake, this was a FIGHT from bell to bell. In the end, Becky Lynch "steals" the win as she pins Charlotte Flair while holding onto the ropes. The score is now Raw 1 and SmackDown 1.

            The men's 5-on-5 Elimination Tag Team match is next. The Raw line-up consists of team captain Bobby Lashley, Austin Theory, Finn Balor, Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins. Their SmackDown opponents are King Woods, Jeff Hardy, Sheamus, Happy Corbin and Drew McIntyre. I am personally rooting for team SmackDown. Kevin Owens fought to start this match but he didn't fight. As soon as the bell rings, he rolls out under the bottom rope and walks up the ramp allowing himself to be counted out. The second person to be eliminated is Happy Corbin compliments of Finn Balor. With a nasty spear followed by the Hurt Lock, Lashley sends King Woods back to the locker room. This lead to the inevitable match up of Bobby Lashley and Drew McIntyre showcasing their disdain for each other. Both athletes take their anger outside the ring and over the barricade resulting in a double count out. Finn Balor will be hitting the showers next as he is taken out by Sheamus. The Celtic Warrior would only survive for a couple more minutes as he is the next to be sent up the ramp by Austin Theory. We are now down to Raw's Austin Theory and Seth Rollins verses SmackDown's Jeff Hardy. The veteran Hardy quickly takes out Theory leaving Jeff to face Seth Rollins one on one. Rollins secures the win for team Raw and the title of sole survivor. It is now Raw 2 and SmackDown 1.

            Next is the 25 man Battle Royal. I have a couple of favorites in this bout. I would be happy with one of the Viking Raiders, Babatunde, aka, Commander Azeez, Jinder Mahal or Shanky picking up the win. Since you can only be eliminated by going over the top rope and both feet touching the floor, AJ Styles smartly goes under the bottom rope to remain fresh by staying out of the chaos. With more than half of the competitors out of the ring, Styles finally joins the battle. However, he is inadvertently eliminated by his tag partner Omos. Omos continued to dominate all the way to a win. Don't know how I feel about this. What I do know is that Raw is in the lead 3 to 1.

            The Usos are now set to face RK-Bro in a tag team match. Before the contest begins, it is important to highlight a great accomplishment. Tonight, Randy Orton sets the record for the most pay-per-view matches in WWE history. Orton would continue to pad his future hall of fame video package when he hits the RKO on Jey Uso who tried to take him out with an Uso Splash to pick up the win. Raw is up 4 to 1. 

            Before we get to the main event of the evening, the women are up in their 5-on-5 elimination match. Raw consists of captain Bianca Belair, Carmella, Zelina "Red Rooster" Vega, Liv Morgan and Rhea Ripley. Team SmackDown is captained by Sasha Banks. She is joined by Natalya, Shayna Baszler, Toni Storm and Shotzi Blackheart. The first women to be eliminated is Carmella. Quite some time later, Zelina Vega would be sent back to the locker room followed by Toni Storm. Liv Morgan would be the fourth athlete eliminated. Rhea Ripley is now out compliments of Shayna Baszler. This contest moved very fast once Vega was taken out eventually leaving Bianca Belair to duke it out against Shotzi Blackheart. Belair would end up winning earning her the title of sole survivor. Congrats to Raw for being the brand with the most wins at 5 to 1. 

            Now for the main event of Roman Reigns verses Big E. Traditional lock up to start the match. Roman would take control and go for the first pinfall. Reigns would continue to dominate the match when E went for a big splash only to miss. This allowed for the Tribal Chief to hit his challenger with a drive by. The assault continues back in the ring. The WWE Universe tried to encourage Ettore but Roman let loose a couple of boots to the face before going for yet another pin. This beat down reminds me of when Bobby Lashley just man handled Kofi Kingston at Money in the Bank 2021. Big E does get in a couple of moments of offense, including a stretch muffler on his opponent. But time and time again, Roman regains control. Despite a powerful spear in the center of the ring, E somehow preserves himself. He even hits the Big Ending but Reigns grabs the ropes which halted the 3 count. The Universal champion, Roman Reigns, would hit one final spear to pick up the win. He has now been the champ for 448 days and the final score of the evening is Raw 5 and SmackDown 2. 

            This was the last WWE pay-per-view of 2021. It was decent. It was also nice to see Vince McMahon make a cameo. As much as I would have loved to see Brock Lesner, I appreciated the lack of surprises because I have a feeling the company is going to ring in 2022 with a bang via their January 1 pay-per-view.  Until then.......

#BringBackBraun

Halloween Havoc Results and Recap

            I absolutely HATE Halloween. So, watching NXT's Halloween Havoc hosted by Chucky was a little disturbing for me. Praise God that I am a streamer and had the ability to fast forward watching it next day.

            The first match of the evening featured female athletes in a stairway to hell ladder match for the tag titles. It will be Indi Hartwell and Persia Pirotta v Toxic Attraction v Io Shirai and Zoey Stark. Io, the only one with ladder match experience, is the first one to bring a ladder into the ring.  These women give just as any man in this type of savage contest. I can't believe it but Toxic Attraction are the new tag champs. I have a bad feeling that WWE is going to push them and Mandy Rose.

            Speaking of Mandy, she is up next against Raquel Gonzalez for the title. I have always wanted Raquel to be stripped of the gold but to Mandy Rose? NXT has no one more worthy? Gonzalez spins the wheel and it land's on Chucky's Choice. The evil doll picks a Trick or Street Fight. Sadly, after all the kendo sticks, fire extinguishers, chairs, tables, and an interference by Dakota Kai dressed in black and armed with a shovel, Many Rose is the new NXT champion.

            MSK is up next against Imperium. A young fan spins the wheel concluding in the athletes having to compete in a lumber jack-o-lantern match for the gold. Sadly, MSK lose their titles to Imperium.

            Now for the title match that I have been waiting for. Tomasso Ciampa will be facing Bron Breakker. First of all, how awesome did Ciampa look? He entered the ring like a warrior. The young dog gave the veteran a run for his money. Bron has the potential to be a champ someday. Until then, he earns the respect of the retaining champ, Tomasso Ciampa.

            This was an ok mini pay-per-view with three title changes. Looking forward to Survivor Series on November 21, 2021.  

#BringBackBraun

Raw after Crown Jewel

            It's a BIG opening on the season premiere of Raw, WWE champion, Big E is in the ring but is soon interrupted by Seth Rollins. He wants the title that currently adorns the waist of Ettore. Before a decision can be made, here comes Rey Mysterio. Rey wants to win the championship one more time. But the ring just keeps getting crowded with the appearance of Finn Balor. Balor wants the gold that he has never held. But wait, there is more. Here comes Kevin Owens. Shortly after chaos erupts, Sonya DeVille announces a fatal four way ladder match to determine the number one contender for a chance at the title. 

            The first match of the evening will see the Street Profits squaring up against the Dirty Dawgz and the Alpha Academy. The tag team who wins this contest will have a title match tonight against RK-Bro. So many close calls in this march, as well as, an appearance by Omos. His presence allowed for Roode and Zigler to pick up the win. 

            Next, it is the official coronation of the first ever Queen's Crown. I am still highly disappointed that Zelina "Red Rooster" Vega was given the title. It is interesting to note that no one officiated the ceremony the way Kofi did for King Xavier. Instead, she is out there bragging on herself until Piper Niven skips her way to the ring. Now, we will see Piper "crown" Zelina in a special kind of way. However, Vega cheats and hits Niven with her scepter to steal a win.

                Before we get to the second match of the evening, we will have a few words from the Raw champion Becky Lynch. Predictably, Bianca Belair joins the conversation. She wants a re-match against Becky. Lynch tells Belair to get to the back of the line which instigates a brawl between these two athletes. At some point, these women will face each other again, just not tonight. It will be happening next week. Tonight, however, there is a championship match on deck and it's for the tag belts.

            RK-Bro are defending their gold against the Dirty Dawgz. Simply put, RK-Bro retain. 

            Now it is time for the fatal four way ladder match. I am totally on board for this bout. I can easily see any of these 4 superstars facing Big E. My concern is that the suits in the back are going to choose the "company guy" Seth Rollins to win. This was such a brutally beautiful match with Rollins emerging as the winner. The company guy now has a title opportunity and a new storyline.  

#BringBackBraun

SmackDown after Crown Jewel

            The night after a pay-per-view is always exciting. Let's see if the SmackDown after Crown Jewel is no exception.

            Universal Champion, Roman Reigns is accompanied to the ring by his cautiously looking advocate Paul Heyman. Reigns lists his accolades to the point that he beat Brock Lesner so bad that now he is tweeting about beating up the champ. The champ stands in the middle of the ring waiting for Lesner to show up. And show up he did. The Beast is back and so are Heyman's acting skills. Keep your eyes on Paul throughout the entire assault. Brock is a man of his words, few as they are. The Usos come out to the unsuccessful aid of their cousin. Others get involved only to get demolished by Brock. You know what I often think about during segments like this? If refs, camera operators, etc get hazard pay or is it just the nature of the business. 

            After the commercial break, Adam Pearce is in the center of the ring, announcing that Brock is indefinitely suspended due to his actions. Brock comes back to the ring with nothing to lose. He sends Adam on a trip via a F-5, twice. Poor Pearce is lying in the ring mangled with a ripped pair of dress pants. I hope this is not the last we see of Lesner.

            The first official match of the evening is between the newly drafted Drew McIntyre and the longest tenured member of SmackDown, Sami Zayn. Drew is not in the mood for any of Sami's games. Zayn gets in a couple of good shots but that only enraged McIntyre straight into a victory via a Claymore.

            Now it is time for the official crowning of Xavier Woods. Kofi Kingston is in the ring to officiate the coronation ceremony. I am so happy for King Xavier. WWE fans, we have come a long way since the days of Harley Race and Jerry Lawler.

            The second match of the evening has Mansoor squaring up against Mustafa Ali. The newcomer gave the veteran a run for his money. Mansoor wins and Ali picks up another loss.

            Hit Row has moved up to the main roster from NXT. I have been saying since May of this year that I was over this group the moment they debuted. I am only interested in seeing AJ Francis in one on one competition. Re-read my posts from May 11, 2021 and Aug 3, 2021. Sadly, my wish of seeing Francis and Bronson Reed in a match will not happen. Maybe AJ can face Big E, Apollo Crews, Commander Azeez, etc. Until then, he and his posse pick up the W tonight on their SmackDown debut. 

            Shinsuke Nakamura is back in action against Happy Corbin. Their storyline is continuing as is their character evolution. Shin is no longer a king and Corbin is no longer down on his luck. I have a feeling that their rivalry is the springboard for Rick Boogs and Madcap Moss. Sure enough, the action outside of the ring was just as inviting as the action inside of the ring. This distraction would cost Nakamura the win.

            Two champs are in the ring to exchange titles since being drafted. Supervised by Sonya DeVille, Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair are suppose to just simply switch titles. The exchange happens but not as smoothly as it should have been. And to add to the drama, Sasha invites herself into the ring. Becky relocates herself to the locker room so Charlotte and Sasha can establish a new storyline between the two of them. Becky doesn't need to get involved until Survivor Series.

#BringBackBraun  

Crown Jewel Recap and Results

            Crown Jewel wasted no time getting right into the action. The first match of the evening had Edge meeting Seth Rollins in Hell in a Cell match. Five tons of steel is the third opponent in this storyline ending contest. Edge wastes no times and pummels Seth into the corner. Shortly thereafter, chairs, tools, chains and other instruments were utilized by both athletes unforgivingly. Poetic justice would end the match as Edge delivers a final stomp to pick up the win. Now that this storyline appears to over, I am eager to see what's next for the Rated-R Superstar.

            Just like Bianca Belair and Sasha Banks made history at WrestleMania 37, Mustafa Ali and Mansoor are about to do the same. These two superstars are the first two Muslims squaring up at a pay-per-view. Mansoor has never lost at a pay-per-view that has been hosted in his home country of Saudi Arabia. I am going into this contest fully expecting to see his hand raised. And win he did. Despite camel clutches, tornado DDTs and verbal berating by Ali, Mansoor once again picks up a win in front of his countrymen. But hold on folks, there's more. After the bell, Ali attacks Mansoor and then music hits. WWE has just introduced us to Olympian silver medal winner Tareg Hamedi as he comes to the aid of Mansoor. 

            Next, we have the first championship match of the evening. AJ Styles and Omos will be facing RK-Bro in a standard match for the Raw Tag Team Championships. AJ and Omos are on a mission of vengeance to reclaim the gold from the odd coupling of Randy Orton and Matt Riddle. Before we get to the action, let's talk about the entrance. Matt comes to the ring on a camel while Randy walks alongside. I can't help but remember Bobby Heenan making his entrance at WrestleMania IX.

Oh, the memories. Now back to the action.

            This was a great match. The crowd was cheering all the way for the champs. Orton and Riddle retain the gold with the assist of a RKO and a Floating Bro off the top rope. 

            In addition to 4 championship matches tonight, we also have the final round of both Queen's Crown and King of the Ring. First up are the women. The first finalist is Zelina "Red Rooster" Vega. Her opponent is Piper Niven. The size difference between these two is hard not to notice. Tiny Vega tried repeatedly to pin the bigger Niven. It was her third attempt using her signature move, Code Red, that secured the crown for Zelina.  I'm not happy and I hope that it doesn't take a year before she is dethroned.

            I am really looking forward to this next match between Bobby Lashley and Bill Goldberg. It is a falls count anywhere, no holds barred match. Even though Goldberg is not known for having long matches, I am praying he gives us a little bit more tonight. And I'm thankful this is his third match in 2021 despite reports that Bill was only contracted for two. 

            As the match begins, Lashley pulls a chain out of his tights, wraps it around his fist and immediately assaults Goldberg. Then he retrieves a steel chair to continue his dominance. Next comes a table into the ring. It was meant for Bill, but Bobby's own momentum sends him through the table. Goldberg catches a second wind and spears the Almighty followed by a jackhammer. Instead of going for the win, he literally takes his gloves off and continues his quest to destroy Lashley. The Hall of Famer sends Bobby through the barricade on the outside. Viciousness continues as Goldberg repeatedly slammed Lashley into everything and anything. A trip up the ramp reveals the presence of Shelton Benjamin and Cedric Alexander armed with kendo sticks. With Lashley's cohorts quickly dispatched, Goldberg spears Lashley off the ramp and through a table to pick up the win.

            Now it is time for the King of the Ring tournament final. Finn Balor or Xavier Woods would be a great king. But in the end, it would be Xavier Woods crowned King of the Ring.

            From one New Day member to another, it is now time for Big E's match against Drew McIntyre. These two bulls always give a great performance. As much I love both athletes, I must confess that I was rooting for Drew all the way. But not all prayers are meant to be answered in the affirmative. Congrats to Ettore for retaining his gold. And to Drew, don't quit before the miracle. You will have gold around your waist again. 

            Women are up again with a triple threat match between Becky Lynch, Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair. I truly do not know who this match favors. This trio of alpha female athletes gave a fist flying and trash talking exceptional match. When all was said and done, Becky Lynch would retain her title. 

            The final match of the evening has to be the most anticipated match of the evening. The Beast Brock Lesner is facing the Tribal Chief Roman Reigns for the Universal title. I was all set for Brock to capture gold, as well as, a plot twist. While Paul Heyman came to the ring with Reigns, the question is: will he leave with Reigns? The other question that will be answered tonight is whether or not, Roman will wake up tomorrow morning as the Universal Champ for the 504th straight day. 

            As the bell rings, Brock goes right after the champ and executes a suplex within the first 5 minutes of the match. Roman catches his breath and takes the action outside the ring with a superman punch and a high flying takedown over the top rope to the arena floor. Back in the ring, Reigns hits his first spear against Lesner. The Beast is down but not for long. Roman goes for a third superman punch but instead kisses the ring post. This allows for Brock to hit two more suplexes and an F-5 leading into an unsuccessful pin attempt. Then comes the plot twist. Lesner goes for a F-5 and "inadvertently" sends Roman into referee Charles Robinson. Second plot twist comes when Paul Heyman throws the championship belt into the ring evenly between both superstars. Lesner get a hold of the belt only to have it knocked out of hi hand when he is super kicked by the Usos. This is followed by a strike to the skull of Brock by Roman while holding the championship belt. Then another ref runs down the ramp to count 1-2-3 resulting in Roman retaining his title. 

            Including the kick off show, it was a great 5 hours of entertainment. With Crown Jewel in the rear view, tomorrow night is the first night when all the draft picks go into effective. Bring on the new feuds and returning superstars. Prayers to all of WWE for a safe flight home. See you Friday night.

#BringBackBraun

SmackDown Oct 1, 2021

            The wait is over! It is the first night of the WWE Draft. Adam Pearce and Sonya DeVille are at the podium and they get right to it. The first pick has Roman Reigns remaining on SmackDown. The second pick has Big E staying on Raw. The third pick for SmackDown has them taking the queen Charlotte Flair, and her belt, off of Raw. The fourth and final pick of the first round has Bianca Belair going over to Raw.

             Not only is this the first night of the draft, but it is also the first Friday Night SmackDown since Extreme Rules. With Roman Reigns in the ring, I am very interested in seeing how the champ explains the controversial ending to his pay-per-view bout against Finn Balor. Well, the champ didn't explain. Paul Heyman did the majority of the talking. I still do not know how he is still by Roman's side since the return of Brock Lesner. Speaking of Brock, here comes the Beast! Good God! The man is fine! Brock is back and he sent the champ to Suplex City twice before taking care of the Usos.

            From one fighting machine to another, Kevin Owens is next. He will be squaring off against Happy Corbin. Corbin comes to the ring with Madcap Moss. Moss is already annoying. Now Corbin doesn't need Moss, but it is a decent storyline to re-introduce us to Moss since his ACL injury. By the end of the match, Corbin is the winner with Moss standing by his side.

            Adam and Sonya are back at the podium for round 2 of the draft. SmackDown is taking Drew McIntyre from Raw. Ohhh....this could be very good. I still have to find out where Jinder Mahal ends up, but my first thought was McIntyre V. Lesner. For the second pick of round two, RK-Bro will be staying on Raw. Next SmackDown selects Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods, taking them off of Raw. The final pick in the second round has the Rated R Superstar going from Friday nights to Monday nights.

            Speaking of the Rated R Superstar, here comes Edge to confront Seth Rollins. He calls out Rollins. However, Seth is on the jumbo-tron and he is apparently at Edge's home. As he is touring the Copeland's home, Edge is on the phone with his wife instructing her to go to her brother's house with the kids. I do not like storylines involving family where young children are concerned.

            Moving on, Carmella is in the ring wearing wedding night attire. She is set for a re-match against Live Morgan. Not invested in either athlete at all. I think Carmella won. It was just weird.

            Back to the draft. In the third round, SmackDown keeps Happy Corbin and Madcap Moss. Raw chooses to keep Rhea Ripley and Nikki Cross. SmackDown shakes things up when they pick NXT's Hit Row. I like that all four superstars have moved up to the main roster. What I really want to see is AJ Francis go solo. For the final pick of the third round, Raw selects Keith "Bearcat" Lee. I am happy to still see Keith is still with the company. I am not sure about the "Bearcat" part but I am already envisioning Lee v. Francis.

            There is action in the ring with the Street Profits teaming with New Day as they face the Alpha Academy and the Dirty Dawgs. Eight man tag matches are like mini royal rumbles. Too much going on to truly appreciate until you are down to the last two athletes in the center of the ring. Xavier Woods of the New Day pinned Robert Roode picking up the win for his team.

            Before we get to the long awaited SummerSlam re-match between Bianca Belair and Sasha Banks, Adam and Sonya will tell us about the superstars in the fourth round of draft picks. First up is SmackDown and they select Naomi. Raw steals away Rey and Dominik Mysterio from Friday nights. Back to SmackDown who chooses to bring back Jeff Hardy. The final pick of night one of the draft has Raw bringing back NXT's Austin Theory to the main roster.

            Now for the main event of the evening. Bianca v. Sasha. First, props to whoever designed the ring gear for Sasha. Such a long overdue upgrade. UGHHH!! Before any action can take place, Becky Lynch makes her way down to the commentator's table to enjoy the match. Predictably, Becky gets involved and costs Belair the win. However, the night would end with Charlotte Flair standing in the center of the ring with her Raw Championship belt high in the air as Becky Lynch holds high her SmackDown Championship belt. This is an old rivalry. Maybe, if Lynch isn't drafted to Raw, we could see Becky "Two Belts" Lynch again. 

#BringBackBraun

NXT 9-28-21

            The theme of tonight's show is Ladies Night. Hit Row is in the ring hyping up the crowd in the newly revamped NXT 2.0. B-Fab's opponent, Elektra Lopez, interrupts it all. The first match of the evening between these two women is a no disqualification match. A decent match with Lopez picking up the victory. 

            Toxic Attraction is up next and they square up against tag champs Io Shirai and Zoey Stark. Before I get to the match, I just need to say that Toxic Attraction reminds me of an updated version of the Riot Squad. Ok, now that I got that out of the way, let's get back to the match. There was a notable amount of high flying by the defending champs. The other notable thing came from the commentator's table. Beth Phoenix made the observation that people are watching Jayne and Dolin because of Mandy rose. Glad someone stated the obvious. And tonight, I watched Io and Zoey retain their gold.

            The third match of the evening is between two male athletes. Rodderick Strong is set to face Grayson Waller in a championship match for the cruiserweight title. This was an excellent match. Both men took risks and gave everything. While I could have seen either athlete winning, it would be Rodderick's hand being held high in the end.  

            A fourth and final match of the evening is between Raquel Gonzalez and Franky Monet. I am not a fan of the champ. I have said before that Raquel comes across to me as more of a brute than a wrestler. Monet, on the other hand, reminds me of a thicker, glammed up version of Luna Vachon. Am I wrong?

Anyway, Gonzalez retains her title with one bra strap still in tact. After the match, Toxic Attraction makes an appearance. They not only go after Franky, but they also decimate the champ in the ring. 

            By the end of the evening, I felt that this particular episode of NXT 2.0 was more about championships and less about the ladies. Yes, I know that three of the four matches featured female athletes. But 75% of the matches had titles on the line. My other thought focused on NXT 2.0 itself. Since the re-branding two weeks ago, the show is definitely brighter. However, it is still what I have always said it was - an updated version of WWE's Tough Enough. Now with the removal of the colors black and gold, it is a more vivid experience.

#BringBackBraun  

Monday Night RAW after Extreme Rules

            A BIG beginning to kick off RAW. Big E defends his title against an irate Bobby Lashley. An intense bull verses bull match up, however, a winner would not be declared. During the match, Benjamin Shelton and Cedric Alexander made their presence known. Chaos would erupt when Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods run down the ramp to even the odds. Referee had no choice but to call for the bell. According to Adam Pearce, the match would continue later on in the show in a steel cage match for the gold. 

            From one champ to another, Damien Priest is up next for a bout against the former United States champion, Sheamus. Both superstars took full advantage of the no holds barred rules. Priest introduced a table and with White Noise from the Celtic Warrior, both men obliterate the table with their bodies. After the commercial break, both athletes are taking turns slamming each other into the barricade. Back in the ring, Sheamus slams Damien's face into a steel chair. With his ring awareness regained, Priest retains his title. 

            Matt Riddle is up next in a singles match against AJ Styles. Randy Orton is apparently missing again. As good as he is, I am just not a fan of Riddle. Praise God, Styles won.

            The queen Charlotte Flair is set to square up against Piper Niven. Yep, I'm still not using the "D" word. This is a championship match. As much as I would like to see Piper become champ, I don't think it will happen until a pay-per-view event. And just like that, with the interference of Eva Marie, Charlotte picks up the win and her title all the way back to the locker room. Eva then gets on the mic to brag only to have Shayna Baszler come down the ramp to shut her up. 

            Monday Night RAW continues with a message from Bill Goldberg to Bobby Lashley. I must admit that I am a little surprised that he is still present in WWE. It is well known that his contract requires him to compete in 2 matches a year. Goldberg has completed the terms of his 2021 contract. He went against Drew McIntyre in the ThunderDome and against Lashley at a PPV. The Dude of Devastation is vowing to hurt the former RAW champion. I'm semi interested in seeing where this goes. 

             Now, we end the show the way that it began. Bobby Lashley will be going up against the champ, Big E, for the gold. Bobby didn't even wait for Ettore to get into the cage when he starts attacking him. What a cheap way to try to get an advantage. But as the old adage goes, cheaters never win. With a big ending off the top rope, Ettore retains his title. But wait, it's not over. Drew McIntyre's music hits. McIntyre has his intentions set on removing the belt from around the waist of Big E. I am so happy that Ettore is the champ. Now I anxiously wait for the day that Roman is dethroned. 

#BringBackBraun

Extreme Rules Recap and Results

            The kick off match was between Liv Morgan and Carmella. I have said many times that you can often tell who is going to win a WWE pay-per-view by what a superstar wears to the ring. Carmella wore wedding night gear while Liv came to the ring dressed as Marvel's newest super hero. In an earlier post, I predicted Liv winning and win she did. That was expected. What was not expected was Peacock running both English and Spanish commentary at the same time. Oh, wait, it's Peacock. I guess sub par streaming was expected. PEACOCK SUCKS!!!

              The audio issues continued when English and French commentary played simultaneously at the beginning of the 6 man match between the New Day v. AJ Styles, Omos and Bobby Lashley. It was a decent contest with the New Day going after Lashley, as well as, Omos dominating his opponents. It is also important to note Jimmy Smith and Corey Graves speculating whether or not Omos and AJ will be separated as a result of the upcoming draft. I think that would be a good idea. Omos is now well established and AJ doesn't need an insurance policy. Back in the ring, Big E pins Bobby Lashley to pick up the win for his team.

            The Street Profits squared up against the Usos. I predicted the Usos retaining because the Bloodline story hasn't reached its apex. Anyway, the match starts with a very visible bullseye on Montez Ford. His ribs are heavily taped because of the actions of Roman Reign and the Usos this past Friday night. Sure enough, that's exactly what happened. Smelling blood in the water, the Usos hit Ford with multiple forms of aggression to the ribs and pick up the win to retain their titles. With the draft looming on the horizon, I am interested in seeing if the Street Profits will be split up. Montez would be a great singles competitor. I don't know about Dawkins future. I wonder if the Street Profits will go the way of Heavy Machinery. 

            Playtime is next as Alexa Bliss takes on Charlotte Flair for the title. The evil pixie could not overcome all the veteran moves of Flair to become the new Raw Women's Champion. The queen retains her gold. Charlotte decided to celebrate her win by destroying both Alexa and her doll "Lilly". I think this feud is over and a new one is starting. Alexa seems to come mentally undone at the site of her ripped apart doll. It could have been a good sell if we all didn't see the Alka-Seltzer tablet on her tongue causing her to foam at the mouth.

            From evil to enigma, Jeff Hardy finds himself in a triple threat match against Damien Priest and Sheamus. As much as I love Hardy, he is only in this match as a momentary x-factor here and there within the true feud between Sheamus and Priest. It was while executing an Alabama Slam on Hardy that Sheamus lost his protective face mask. This allowed Damien to target the still healing broken nose of the Celtic Warrior. Marry that with Sheamus' showboating and the Archery of Infamy retains his title.

            Back to the women as Becky Lynch defends her title against Bianca Belair. Bianca was dressed ready to win while Becky looked washed out in all white gear. A literal and physical tug of war match with Bianca's long pony tail being used as a hazardous rope of sorts. Many times, each athlete had a hold of the champ's braided packs of hair. I am still praying for Belair to rock a new hairstyle come 2022. Until then,  it will be Becky Lynch retaining her gold thanks to the interference of Sasha Banks. Thank you Sasha and I love your new gear. 

            Now it is time for the main event of the evening. Finn Balor squares up against the Tribal Chief, and defending champion, Roman Reigns. I have to be honest, the first thought that came to mind when I saw Finn Balor dressed as his alter ego, The Demon, was Peacock's decision to omit the WrestleMania VI match between Roddy Piper and Bad News Brown. Peacock defended the decision to remove the match because they felt Roddy was in "blackface". However, no suit over at Peacock seemed to have a problem with Finn's look tonight. Peacock, you are consistently inconsistent. WWE, you need to take back your house and put back accurate wrestling history, warts and all, before the bird brains "white wash" away all the facts. Puns heavily intended. Readers, what do you think?

            Back to the match. It was insane and intense from bell to bell. We saw kendo sticks, chairs and bodies going through tables. We even saw Roman put on a mask while fighting amongst the WWE Universe but take it off when he was back in the ring. That was a little surprising. What was not surprising was the Usos getting involved in the match. But wait, another shocker is on tap. After Roman savagely spears Finn through the barricade, the lights go red and we hear the "heartbeat" of the Demon. The air was full of New Jack flavor as Finn's music plays during the closing moments of the match. While perched on the top rope for the Coup-de-Grace, the rope snaps, house lights go back to normal and Reigns defeats Balor. 

            A decent pay-per-view with no title changes. My prediction tally was 6-1. Over on Draft Kings, I got 6 out of 10 right regarding the Roman v Finn match. Now, I get to look forward to Crown Jewel on Oct 21, 2021.  

#BringBackBraun

SmackDown before Extreme Rules and Predictions

            "Big Time" Becky opened this past Friday's SmackDown before Extreme Rules. She would soon be joined in the ring by the EST of WWE, Bianca Belair. A great verbal build-up to tonight. I am predicting the Becky will retain the gold.

        

            King Nakamura is next in a championship match against Apollo Crews. An obvious outcome with Nakamura winning the contest. Equally obvious was the drama on the outside between Commander Azeez and Rick Boogz. 

            Next is a match that I could care less about. Zelina "Red Rooster" Vega squares up against Liv Morgan. I am still dumbfounded that WWE released Alisteir Black and brought back his wife, Vega. Black is the better athlete and the bigger draw and headliner. An absolute headscratcher. The head scratching continues with Zelina picking up a win over Morgan. 

            Now it is time for something that I am completely invested in. It is the debut of Happy Corbin on the premiere episode of Happy Talk. True to character, his first guest is himself. However, Kevin Owens would have none of it. As Owens is making his way down the ramp, he is attacked by Riddick Moss. The happy host joins in on the chaos. And there you have it folks. Within 10 minutes, Happy Talk is now a segment and Moss has returned.

            It is back to women's action with the contest between Nikki Cross and Natayla. And in less than 5 minutes, Nikki wins. But wait, there's more. Shotzi Blackheart and Teagan Nox make their presence felt. How long before we see a championship title match between Shotzi and Nox verses Rhea and Nikki?

            I am torn about the storyline of the next superstar. Naomi got in the face of Sonya DeVille last week. Will that interaction lead to Sonya getting back in the ring? Or will Naomi join her husband and brother-in-law within the Bloodline? According to Naomi's speech in the ring, she wants a one on one with Deville who is at the top of the ramp exercising her duties as Naomi's boss. She refuses Naomi's challenge and has two security guards escort her out of the arena. 

            Moving on in the evening, it is Montez Ford in a bout against Roman Reigns. In my opinion, this was a filler match with the predictable ending of Roman winning. The Tribal Chief goes into tonight's pay-per-view as champ for the past 391 days. I predict Reigns will retain tonight against Balor. At the same time, I am wondering how long it will be before we see Lesner v. Reigns.  

            Here are all my predictions for tonight's Extreme Rules.

• Roman Reigns (C) v. Finn Balor - Roman retains
• Becky Lynch (C) v. Bianca Belair - Becky retains
• Charlotte Flair (C) v. Alexa Bliss - Alexa wins the title
• Damien Priest (C) v. Sheamus v. Jeff Hardy - Damien retains
• Usos (C) v. Street Profits - Usos retain
• Liv Morgan v. Carmella - Liv wins
• Usos (C) v. Street Profits - Usos retain

#BringBackBraun

Raw before Extreme Rules and Predictions

            It is the last Raw before Extreme Rules and the show opens with Big E celebrating with his New Day brothers after winning the championship last week over Bobby Lashley. After much thanks and appreciation, E sets his sights on SmackDown's Bloodline - Roman Reigns and the Usos. As a result, the first match of the evening will be a six man tag match between the Bloodline and the New Day. It was a vicious match because of the familiarity that exists between all 6 competitors. However, the height of the match happened when Big E and Roman Reigns went at it. A second highlight came when Bobby Lashley ran down the ramp and attacked both teams. Lashley's presence would allow Roman Reigns to execute the spear and pin Xavier Woods for the win. One last thing to note before moving on in the evening. MVP is noticeably absent. He suffered a broken rib last week as a result of a RKO and will be out indefinitely.  

            The second match of the evening has Randy Orton squaring up against AJ Styles. Each competitor has their respective tag partners at ringside. Awesome match which saw Omos get ejected from the area for interfering. After the commercial break, these two veteran competitors gave a expertly engaging performance. In the end, the viper Orton would pick up the win thanks to his signature move. 

            Women are up next with Shayna Baszler and Nia Jax meeting in the squared circle. This was a short chapter to the dissolution storyline between the former tag partners. Shayna quickly picks up the victory. However the destruction would continue after the bell with Baszler taking out the left arm of Jax with the assistance of the steel steps.

            Brutality continues with Rhea Ripley as she teams with Nikki Cross. They go against the tag champs, Nattie and Tamina for the gold. The champs control the first half of the match until Rhea hits the Riptide on Tamina on the outside. This was enough of a distraction to allow Nikki to pick up the win over Nattie. And just like that, we have new tag champs in the odd coupling of Rhea and Nikki. 

            The estrogen parade keeps going as Alexa Bliss and "Lilly" are hosting The Playground in the center of the ring. Their guest is none other that the queen herself - Charlotte Flair. There is such a mean girls flavor to this storyline. After a minute or two of verbal aggression, Charlotte takes off her heels, attacks Alexa and rips off the head of the doll "Charly". I predict Bliss taking the gold from the queen tonight at Extreme Rules.  

            Next we have a triple threat match between Roman Reigns, Bobby Lashley and Big E. Ettore demonstrates dominance to start the match. Each competitor took turns controlling the narrative but in the end,  the visiting Tribal Chief picks up the win. Is this a harbinger to come for tonight when Roman faces Finn Balor? I think so. As much as I would like to see Reigns finally stripped of his Universal title, my gut is telling me that the Bloodline story hasn't reached its peak. I predict Roman to retain his title at Extreme Rules. 

#BringBackBraun

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