Monday Night RAW 2-26-2024

As the opening video package ends, pyro explodes on the stage as the crowd in Detroit, Michigan is erupting in cheers. The cameras pan through the crowd, showing off various signs reading things like “Acknowledge the Tribal Chief”, “I Came Here for Cody”, “It’s Tiffy Time!” and more. After doing a pan of the Little Caesars Arena, the cameras settle in on the commentary table where we see the team of Michael Cole and Wade Barrett



MICHAEL COLE: Good evening everybody, and welcome to Monday Night RAW! I’m Michael Cole and joining me tonight is my broadcast partner, the legendary Wade Barrett!

WADE BARRETT: Speaking of legendary, tonight is going to be the beginning of a whole new era in the WWE. Who is going to rise to the top under the new regime of Stephanie McMahon and Triple H?

MICHAEL COLE: That’s an excellent question, Wade. For the last couple of weeks there have been signings of some of the most exciting and talented Superstars in this entire industry and tonight, we’re going to get our first glimpse at just what this new era has in store for the WWE Universe.

Suddenly, “King of Kings” by Motörhead begins to play on the speakers and the crowd’s cheers grow even louder as the new owners of the WWE, Stephanie McMahon and Triple H walk out to the top of the ramp. Wrapping their arms around one another in a loving embrace, the power couple share a quick kiss before looking out at the enthusiastic WWE Universe, both of their faces lit up with smiles.



Breaking their embrace, the two of them begin walking hand in hand down the rampway towards the ring, soaking in the reception from the crowd.

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen please welcome, the NEW owners of WWE…Stephanie McMahon and Trrrrriiiiiplllllle H!

WADE BARRETT: Opening with two of the biggest talents in the industry running the event is a great way to start. Let me tell you, Cole, this is going to be a night that nobody forgets any time soon. We’ve got superstars from all over the wrestling world, it’s a veritable smorgasbord of delight for any wrestling fan!

Once they reach the stairs, Triple H helps Stephanie to climb onto the side of the apron and into the ring, opening the ropes for her as she steps in and he climbs in after her. Triple H walks over to Samantha Irvin and requests the microphone from her, which she gives him with a smile before turning and exiting the ring. As Triple H joins Stephanie in the center of the ring, the two of them are still beaming, clearly eating up the reception from the WWE Universe as they wildly cheer for the two of them.

MICHAEL COLE: These two taking over the reins of the company after purchasing it is probably a moment in history that will never be forgotten. The amount of love they have for this company and the industry as a whole is no secret. It runs in their blood and I for one am glad they made the decision.

WADE BARRETT: We’re all indeed glad to have a paycheck we can count on again, Cole.

As the music fades out, Triple H hands the microphone over to Stephanie, who waits for the crowd to die down before raising the microphone up to her mouth to speak.



STEPHANIE MCMAHON: Welcome everyone, to Monday Night RAW!

Once again, the crowd begins to go wild with cheers at this iconic line. Stephanie pauses, looking out at the crowd with a smile as they continue to nearly blow the roof off the Little Caesars Arena. As they begin to settle back down, Stephanie raises the microphone back up to her mouth and continues to speak.

STEPHANIE MCMAHON: It felt so good to say that, and it feels so good to be standing here in this ring in front of all of you right now. Earlier this year when my father, Vince McMahon, said he was ready to retire and step down from the WWE, I knew I had to do something. This business has been in my family for over seventy years and I knew that I couldn’t let just anyone take it over. So, after some very serious conversations, my husband and I decided that the best course of action would be for the two of us to purchase the company, continuing the family tradition of dominating the Sports Entertainment industry!

MICHAEL COLE: We have been the leading brand in sports entertainment for a long time, and it’s good to be able to continue that tradition!

WADE BARRETT: Judging from the talent we have coming through the door, that's not going to change any time soon. Can you just imagine the amount of dream matches with the talent we have now alone?

MICHAEL COLE: Dream matches that will be happening on this very night! I can’t wait to see what else they have in store for us moving forward!

STEPHANIE MCMAHON: Now I’m sure you’re all eager to hear what our plans are for the championships going forward, as obviously everything was vacated when we took over the company and cleared the roster to start over from scratch. I want to assure you all that soon enough, the very best of the new era of the WWE will have their moment in the sun as we’re officially on the road to our first Premium Live Event, Night of Champions!

Yet again the crowd breaks out into cheers, thrilled at this news. As they settle back down, Stephanie continues.

STEPHANIE MCMAHON: Night of Champions will take place on March twenty-fourth from the historical Madison Square Garden. A fitting venue, as that is no doubt going to go down as one of the most historical events we’ve ever had. It will be at that event that we will crown our new champions, including the top prize in the company, the WWE Championship. At this time, I’m going to turn it over to one of the greatest WWE Champions of all time, my husband, Triple H, and allow him to explain just what we have in store.

As the crowd buzzes with excitement at the impending announcement, Stephanie hands the microphone over to Triple H who now raises the microphone up to address the WWE Universe.



TRIPLE H: We’ve got a lot of championships, and they’ve been held by some of the best legends this business has ever seen. With history that goes back for decades, that makes them all the more precious to the WWE Universe and to Stephanie and myself. However, the WWE Championship holds a special place in the hearts of many that can’t be matched. Which is why we’re going to be keeping a close eye on every competitor this week, as we prepare to make some difficult decisions to get our brackets set to see just who our first ever WWE Champion of the new era will be. After all; with men like Hulk Hogan, Stone Cold Steve Austin, The Rock, John Cena, Seth Rollins, Roman Reigns, and even myself, it’s only appropriate to find the exact right man for the position at the top of the mountain.

Triple H gives that trademark death stare out into the crowd and the camera as he pauses for a moment.

TRIPLE H: Getting to the top isn’t going to be an easy climb, either. It’s going to require every bit of grit, sweat, blood and tears to take yourself there. Starting next week, we’ll be having the first round of qualifiers to determine who gets their spots in the eventual showdown at Night of Champions. Eight men will have the opportunity to make it, but only one is going to come out of it a changed man, a new version of himself, the first WWE Champion in the new era. So the only question left for each of those men is…are you ready?

As he finishes his speech, he moves to the ropes and hands the mic back to a ringside attendant, leaning the middle rope down so that Stephanie can exit and he can follow suit.

WADE BARRETT: That’s some huge news for the WWE Universe, Cole, a tournament to crown a new WWE Champion! The first WWE Champion of a new era, and only one man can lay claim to it. Who have you got your money on, Cole?

MICHAEL COLE: I’d say it’s a little too soon to place any bets, partner, the roster is stacked so far. It’s not going to be an easy feat for any of the men in this company!

WADE BARRETT: I for one think that a betting man would pick the obvious choice. Men like Maxwell Jacob Friedman who are willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Then there’s guys like Cody Rhodes, who has been fighting for his dream to come true! Hell, even a guy like Ethan Page who has been cutting his teeth to prove himself once and for all!

MICHAEL COLE: You just named three different people who may or may not be in this tournament! Which one is your choice?

WADE BARRETT: I can’t tell you that, Cole, what do I look like, a bloody idiot? It’s obvious who I would choose though!

MICHAEL COLE: What I do know is that we’re heading into our first match here soon. So I’ll just choose to ignore your comment and focus on the action we’re about to have in the ring soon, where Adam Copeland and Gable Steveson will be in one-on-one action! Talk about potential for the tournament, I’m sure Triple H and Stephanie will be keeping a close eye on this one!

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The bell rings to start the match as Gable Steveson tentatively extends a hand but Adam Copeland quickly slaps the back of his hand to knock it away, spinning Steveson around as he drops him on the back of his neck with a sit out rear mat slam formerly referred to as an Edge-O-Matic. Copeland immediately covers for the pin, hooking the leg, 1...2...thr-nooo! Gable gets the shoulder up at the last moment, reeling in shock at how quick the exchange was. Gable jumps to his feet as Adam motions with his fingers that it was that close, taunting the rookie over the close call.

MICHAEL COLE: Adam nearly had the match with that move, the rookie is gonna have to keep on his toes if he wants to compete against the veteran.

WADE BARRETT: Gable is still fresh to the game and he's gonna have to learn real quick if he wants to beat a man with as much time in as Adam.

Steveson tries to shake it off as he circles around with Copeland and goes to get the leg out from under The Rated-R Superstar, but it's dodged quickly. As Steveson goes to get back to his feet, Copeland slaps the back of his head and now America's Hero is a bit incensed as he rushes for him, but Copeland backs into the corner and the referee stops the encounter, pushing Gable back who gets a thumb to the eye from Adam while the ref's back is turned.

MICHAEL COLE: A sneaky move but definitely showing his experience here again.

WADE BARRETT: I'd say I feel bad for Gable but these are the lessons we all had to learn. Get better, kid!

Kurt Angle is at ringside and he watches as Adam tosses Gable out of the ring by the back of his neck, slapping his hands together as if he's taken out the trash while the crowd is eating up the antics of the Rated R Superstar. Kurt goes to check on his pupil but gets shoved away blindly before Gable realizes who it is and apologizes to him for not knowing it was him. Angle motivates him to get back into the ring and keep his focus, motioning with a point of his finger towards the ring and telling him to stay in the game. Gable and Adam lock up into a collar and elbow tie up before Steveson gets behind Copeland with a double leg takedown and then hits a German suplex that surprises the veteran, getting him up and nailing a second, before once again lifting him up for a third and going for the pinfall. 1...2...no! The shoulder is up before the ref gets to 3!

MICHAEL COLE: There's life in the kid yet, Barrett!

WADE BARRETT: I'll say and that series of German suplexes certainly did no favors for Adam's condition.

The crowd is booing the exchange as Gable is thrown off for a moment from the reaction, Copeland holds the back of his neck for a moment as he gets up and wiggles his fingers just to make sure he can still feel them. Gable stomps at the back of The Rated-R Superstar's right knee as he tries to get up, raining some fists on his back before lifting him up by the leg and slamming his knee down into the canvas hard. He raises his arms up for the fans but they aren't pleased at all and a plastic cup comes flying into the ring nailing him in the shoulder as the liquid contents splash onto his face.

MICHAEL COLE: It doesn't appear as though America's Hero is quite the favorite he expects to be!

WADE BARRETT: It's hard to like a guy who is beating up a man that's entertained you for decades. Not exactly what one would consider a hero is it, Cole?

MICHAEL COLE: Well hopefully he can turn things around for himself and show this crowd he's on their side.

As he wipes the drink from his face, he grabs at the ankle of Copeland and picks it up as he looks to lock in the Ankle Lock. Pulling him in with his legs though, Copeland manages to shove him into the ropes and nail a hip toss on Gable that the crowd pops for. Both men are quick to their feet, and a quick spear attempt from Copeland is dodged as he smacks face first into a turnbuckle pad and finds himself caught up in an Olympic Slam! Gable tears the straps down on his singlet as he screams with rage before grabbing the ankle again and this time successfully pulling The Rated-R Superstar to the center of the ring and locking in the Ankle Lock! Copeland is screaming in pain as he starts to pull himself towards the ropes, but Steveson wraps his legs around Copeland's own and torques even harder on the ankle to increase the pressure, as Copeland has no choice but to tap out! Gable Steveson gets the win!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner…”America’s Hero”, GAAAABLE STEEEEEVESOOOOON!

WADE BARRETT: America's Hero picks up the victory, looks like you and the WWE Universe will be eating crow tonight, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: It certainly took me off guard to see Gable Steveson get the win here tonight! What a debut for him, though!

WADE BARRETT: That pep talk from Angle must've set him back on the right path. He found his focus, and he took advantage of the openings and used his amateur wrestling skills to press the advantage and get the victory over the wily veteran!

Kurt Angle is in the ring now with Steveson, and proudly raises his arm in the air as the young rookie does a celebratory fist pump with his free hand. Unfortunately, despite this big win, the crowd still isn’t feeling it as they boo Steveson, whose look changes from one of celebration to confusion as he looks at Kurt for guidance. The older man pulls Gable close and whispers something in his ear, they both nod and then head out of the ring.

The cameras now go backstage with Cathy Kelley, microphone in hand, sporting a serene smile. Par for the course, she eagerly addresses the WWE Universe.



CATHY KELLEY: Ladies and gentlemen, I'm thrilled to be the first to welcome back the 2018 Mae Young Classic winner and former NXT UK Women's Champion, Toni Storm!

Muffled cheers emanate from the fans, setting the ambiance of the arena. The camera pans out to reveal Toni Storm standing beside Cathy. In stark contrast to the ever-so-chipper interviewer, Toni appears remarkably disheveled. Her luminous blonde locks are messily entangled in hair curlers. A leopard-print robe hangs loosely on her frame, barely masking a potential wardrobe malfunction. One side of her face boasts flawless makeup, while the other side reveals smeared lipstick and traces of dried eyeliner streaking across her cheek, hinting at a possible pre-interview emotional breakdown.

CATHY KELLEY: Toni, it has been quite some time since the WWE Universe last saw you. About three years, if I'm not mistaken. But what a time to make a return, on the first night of the new regime under Triple H and Steph–!

Abruptly, an arm slips from the sleeves of Toni's robe to place a hand over Cathy's microphone to prevent her from gabbing any further. The starlet striking the camera with a ghastly-looking glower as she spoke.



TONI STORM: Mmmyes, yes... it's been an exhilarating night, hasn't it? Why, it's been a most stupendous soirée! "O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!", I hear them shouting in the streets! Yet, I cannot help but notice that there is something missing from this momentous occasion. Something that has drained this television program of its… razzle-dazzle. I believe it’s lacking that certain… foofaraw, wouldn’t you say?

Cathy’s features briefly scrunge in confusion, unsure if Toni is even using real words at this point.

TONI STORM: Come now, Catherine dearest, come now! Keep up! I am merely the interviewee left to the whims of your silly questions, so I mustn’t do your job for you! Ask me what’s been missing from this show…

CATHY KELLEY: R-right. What’s missing from–?

TONI STORM: Does anyone remember… laughter? Where is… Toni Storm’s laughter? Darling, you think I actually had aspirations of one day coming back? Heavens no! My career went tits up! My dreams turned into night terrors! As far as I’m concerned, this clip joint might as well be Sodom and Gomorrah! But you see, I was told – no, I was promised that things would be different! That I’d receive star billing! That it would be my eminence taking the lead!

Taking a quick moment to refresh, Toni reached into the plunge of her neckline to retrieve a silver flask. Downing the contents whilst a concerned Cathy looked on.

TONI STORM: Can… can you believe that unkempt brute that they call a General Manager didn’t even stock my dressing room with my favorite hooch? I had to bring my own! Oh, my apologies… would you care for a sip? I brewed it myself.

Sluggishly, Toni holds out the flask to which Cathy politely waves off.

CATHY KELLEY: Erm, no thank you…

TONI STORM: Catherine… surely, you can conceive a reasonable explanation as to why Jordynne Grace vs. The Fabulous Moolah is tonight’s main attraction, and I’m not?

CATHY KELLEY: Fabulous Moo–? Do you mean Carmella?

At that moment, Toni’s features contorted to visible anger. Eyeing the interview with an expression of aghast.



TONI STORM: Moolah, Carmoolah… frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn what any of these strumpets names are! What I care about is the lack of accountability for the promises that were made to ensure my happiness, but then here you are… correcting me like I’m a child? Not… graciously accepting the offer to try the hooch that I painstakingly brewed from my own bathtub? The same bathtub seasoned with the essence of my excellence that drips from my very pores? Wh-why… why are you even badgering me with these questions when none of them align with my priorities?!

CATHY KELLEY: I was just under the impression that you’d be excited for your return…

TONI STORM: This interview is over! Shut… UP!

Scowling at the interviewer in the disgust, Toni’s attention would then avert down to her feet.

TONI STORM: Hmm, no. This won't do. I certainly cannot part with my Salvatore Ferragamo’s… LUTHER!

Finally stepping out of frame, Cathy is now left alone to stare blankly at the camera, clearly unsure of what to make of Toni’s meltdown.

CATHY KELLEY: Uhm, back to yo–... WHAT THE?! HEY!

Suddenly, an Oxford shoe flies towards Cathy’s direction, the camera capturing the spectacle of the interviewer narrowly ducking out of the way before the screen fades to black.

WADE BARRETT: Did she just throw an Oxford?

MICHAEL COLE: Luther lost a shoe and it nearly took out Cathy Kelley!

WADE BARRETT: Gotta be careful what you say to the superstars, you never know what state of mind they’ll be in, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: Well hopefully we won’t see any more shoes thrown tonight when we head into our next match between Roman Reigns and Matt Sydal.

WADE BARRETT: We’ll just have to wait and find out! Although, to be fair, I think a spear or a Superman punch would probably be more brutal to see than any Oxford that could be thrown at you.

MICHAEL COLE: Well hopefully Sydal can show us some offense to match. I can’t wait to see what he’s bringing to the table with his return to the WWE Universe!

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The crowd buzzes with anticipation as Sydal and Roman square off from one another. Roman’s stoic expression countered by a sly grin on the face of the veteran, Sydal. The crowd seem torn between the two, despite Roman’s uncaring attitude towards the fans, but the audience is quickly turned when Roman faces out to the crowd and tells them to “shush” before holding his finger up in the air.

CRASH! Sydal isn’t waiting around for Roman to finish taunting the fans and delivers a running dropkick to the back of Roman’s neck which sends him tumbling out of the ring!

MICHAEL COLE: Roman should have known better than to turn his back on anyone in this ring!

WADE BARRETT: Absolutely, Cole. Especially a veteran of the ring like Matt Sydal.

As Roman staggers back to his feet on the outside, clearly taken by surprise and groggily trying to work out how badly he is hurt, Sydal hits the ropes in the ring and with a running start he NAILS a flying crossbody over the top rope!

The crowd goes wild as Sydal hops back to his feet, having left Roman laid out on his back on the outside.

WADE BARRETT: Sydal’s message might be one of peace and love, but that sure seemed like it felt good!

Sydal reaches down and uses all his strength to pick up the hefty weight of Roman Reigns and rolls him back into the ring. He then rushes up the turnbuckle from the outside and waits for the groggy Tribal Chief to make it back to his feet. The crowd are electric, already enamoured by Sydal’s offence. Roman slowly managed to regain his footing, turns to find Sydal leaping from the top rope and going for the meteora, but NO! Reigns manages to turn out of the way, leaving Sydal to crash to the canvas.

Roman hits the rope himself and as he runs at Sydal on the rebound he delivers a huge big boot that spins the smaller man inside out! With his opponent laid out in the ring, Roman turns back to the crowd and finishes taunting them, drawing a wave of jeers.

The Tribal Chief turns when he senses Sydal staggering back to his feet, not wanting to be caught off guard again, and delivers a stiff uppercut that sends Sydal falling backwards into the ropes. But, the move gives Sydal momentum, and using it he rushes at Roman, powering through the pain of the punch, and delivers a flying calf kick that catches Roman square on the temple!

Both men hit the canvas as the crowd goes wild!

MICHAEL COLE: What an electric start. Neither man is giving an inch in their debut.

Despite Roman having taken more offence, he is the first back to his feet. The lingering effects of using his body as a weapon showing on the face of Sydal as he manages to regain his footing a second or two after his opponent.

Roman rushes Sydal, but the smaller man drops to the floor and catches Roman in a drop toe-hold. He follows it up by hooking Roman’s arms and locking him into a crucifix pin as the ref counts!

1….2…. KICKOUT!

Roman powers out and pushes himself back to his feet, then immediately closes the distance on Sydal and goes for another uppercut! But this time Sydal sidesteps, kicks Roman’s thigh, then the other, then a stiff kick to the Tribal Chief’s gut. With momentum on his side Sydal hits the ropes and goes once again for the flying calf kick. Only for Roman to catch him! Roman hoists Sydal into position and drops him with a samoan drop!

WADE BARRETT: Let me tell you, it is seeing two guys go at it like this that makes me glad I’m not in that ring anymore.

Roman hooks Sydal’s leg!

1… KICKOUT!

Roman looks down at Sydal, his expression furious.

MICHAEL COLE: Sydal kicked out at one! Can you believe it?

WADE BARRETT: There are few wrestlers with more heart than that man!

Unfortunately for Sydal, kicking out at one only seems to have angered Roman who turns, mounts Sydal, and begins to rain down hammer blows. Huge fists connecting with Sydal’s skull, body, and arms as he tries to shield himself. The relentless torrent only breaks when the referee manages to pull Roman off.

Despite the beating, Sydal uses the ropes and distance caused by the referee to pull himself to his feet in the corner. Roman pushes the referee aside and rushes at his opponent, but Sydal ducks and Roman goes flying face-first into the turnbuckle! Sydal leaps into action and rolls Roman up, pulling him away from the corner and into a pin!

1…2… KICKOUT!

Roman kicks out again, but this time it is the Tribal Chief who springs into action quickly. He swivels on the mat, and wraps his huge arms around the neck of Sydal, pulling him into a shock guillotine out of nowhere!

Sydal struggles and fights against the hold, trying his best to fight his way free. But it’s obvious that Roman has him outmatched in the strength department, and despite Sydal’s attempts to reach the ropes with his feet, the pair are square in the middle of the ring! Slowly Sydal begins to fade, then as the last of his will leaves his body he taps!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner… The TRIIIIBAL CHIEF, ROMAN REIGNNNNNSSS!

MICHAEL COLE: That was one hell of a performance from both men.

WADE BARRETT: Absolutely! Neither man did themselves any harm in getting their names out there tonight.

Roman Reigns stands in the center of the ring, a cocky smirk on his face as he raises a fist in the air. He goes over to the ropes and exits the ring, making his way up the ramp as Paul Heyman follows close behind, an evil grin on his face. The cameras then go to the backstage interview area where we see Cathy Kelly with a microphone in her hand.



CATHY KELLEY: It is an honor to be here tonight on one of the most momentous and prestigious nights in wrestling history. Joining me now for their scheduled interview segment, and I thought I would never hear anyone say these words on WWE television, but here I am. Joining me now for their scheduled interview time, Nick and Matt Jackson, the Young Bucks!

The crowd isn’t sure how to fully react to Nick and Matt’s arrival. There’s a smattering of boos and cheers from the in-arena crowd. To be honest though, the Jacksons don’t really care how they’re received. The flank Cathy on each side as she goes to start her interview.

CATHY KELLEY: Gentlemen, it’s an honor to have you here and I think I can speak for most of the WWE fans out there when I say, welcome to the tag team division here!

MATT JACKSON: That’s pretty presumptuous of you to speak for the fans out there. Cause it doesn’t sound like we’re being welcomed all that well.

Now the crowd chooses a side, booing that comment from Matt Jackson before Nick pulls the microphone over towards him.

NICK JACKSON: Yeah, not to mention this bustling WWE tag team division. What do we have out there? Gargano and Ciampa? Two guys who act like they’ve been a tag team their whole lives. Not like a pair of real life brothers or anything.

MATT JACKSON: You’ve got Mogul Embassy and The Patriarchy and whoever they decide to roll out for their obligated tag team. Because let’s face it, you just throw guys together and surely they’ll have the same kind of chemistry two guys who grew up together will have.

NICK JACKSON: Then there’s Tokka and Rezar or whatever they’re called. The Authors of Pain. Kind of ridiculous because you know those two have never read a book in their lives, let alone authored one! Not like Nick and Matt Jackson, who have authored a book!

MATT JACKSON: Killing the Business! Which you can find on Amazon and all online bookstores! You’ll notice that the book is still full price four years after its release because of its groundbreaking content and high demand. Unlike literally every other wrestling book that has ever been released!

Cathy seems confused going back and forth on all of this.

NICK JACKSON: It’s no wonder, with a tag division as strong as this that the powers that be couldn’t find a way to get a tag team match on the card tonight. I assure you, that will be the last time that ever happens now that the greatest tag team that’s ever lived has arrived. If we have to carry this division on our back, we will do so.

MATT JACKSON: Wouldn’t be the first promotion we’ve done that in and it won’t be the last.

NICK JACKSON: The fact of the matter is this, Cathy. We’ve done everything that there is to do in the world of tag team professional wrestling except one thing. That all changes soon. Because as much as these other tag teams want to lie to themselves and convince themselves that they’re going to make a difference in this division, they’re all fighting to be second best.

MATT JACKSON: We’re more than just a tag team though, Cathay.

Matt stares at her, waiting for her to ask the follow up question. This is, after all, an interview.

CATHY KELLEY: What else are you?

NICK JACKSON: We are former Executive Vice Presidents and while our contracts dictate that we can’t talk about any behind the scenes issues we may have been prevalent in, we know how this all works. We know that we have to earn our shot and we’re more than happy to do so.

MATT JACKSON: So put whoever you want across the ring from us. Let’s get this division started off with a bang and in a big way. The Young Bucks are dying to show these WWE fans what they’ve been missing for decades!

NICK JACKSON: True tag team championship wrestling!

MATT JACKSON: Next week, Cathy!

Nick and Matt leave from their respective sides as Cathy looks confused as to what just went down.

CATHY KELLEY: Wade and Michael, back to you guys!

MICHAEL COLE: Nick and Matt Jackson don’t seem to be impressed with the tag division they’re coming into.

WADE BARRETT: Strong words for men who haven’t been in tag team competition in the WWE. This ain’t a small pond like those boys are used to, they might want to bite their tongues before they catch their feet in their own mouths!

MICHAEL COLE: Well, at the very least, they are showing that energy one would want out of a fresh tag team in the division. So maybe we should let them simmer for a bit to see what they're capable of before we judge too harshly.

WADE BARRETT: I’ll tell you what we will be seeing tonight! Some action from the WWE women’s division and nobody is going to stop either Jordynne Grace or Carmella from doing their best to impress out here.

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As the bell rings, Carmella walks out of her corner to the center of the ring, her hand outstretched as if she’s wanting to shake hands before the start of the match. Jordynne Grace understandably looks a little weary, but nevertheless, she walks out of her corner as well and goes to shake Carmella’s hand. At the last second, though, Carmella pulls her hand back, running it through her hair as a cocky grin begins to spread across her face. The crowd begins to boo this petty move as Jordynne, clearly not impressed with Carmella’s antics, puts her hands on her hips and rolls her eyes as she can be seen saying “really?” while Carmella flips her hair and shrugs her shoulders. Determined to not let The Staten Island Princess make her look like a fool, Jordynne sticks her hand back out for a handshake, a serious expression on her face. Carmella rolls her eyes as she looks at Jordynne’s outstretched hand, and then she reaches up and slaps The Juggernaut right across the face! The crowd “oohs” as Jordynne’s head snaps back from the impact of the slap.

MICHAEL COLE: I don’t think that was a very smart move on Carmella’s part, Wade.

WADE BARRETT: I think you’re right, Cole. Normally I appreciate a resourceful woman, but Jordynne Grace isn’t one you want to mess with. Carmella may have just signed her death certificate with that one!

Holding her cheek where Carmella slapped her, a look of anger flashes across Jordynne’s face as she slowly turns her head back to look at Carmella, who has her back turned to The Juggernaut as she’s proudly smiling and talking trash to the crowd that’s loudly booing her. After a moment, Carmella turns around and stops in her tracks as she sees Jordynne staring her down, starting to shake with anger. Carmella puts her hands up in front of her, and as she goes to tell Jordynne she’s sorry, The Juggernaut lets out a yell and comes charging at The Staten Island Princess! With a shriek, Carmella runs towards the ropes and leaps out of the ring, but Jordynne Grace is right behind her, tearing through the ropes herself, running after Carmella who is running around the ring trying to get away from her opponent!

MICHAEL COLE: The chase is on! Carmella thought she could get away with humiliating Jordynne Grace, but she’s about to find out that Jordynne Grace doesn’t take kindly to that kind of treatment!

WADE BARRETT: Carmella’s a beautiful woman, I’m scared to think of what might happen to her face if Jordynne manages to get her hands on her.

After a couple of laps around the ring, Carmella slides back into the ring under the bottom rope and quickly gets to her feet. Jordynne isn’t too far behind her, however when she slides into the ring, Carmella rushes over and stomps on her back before she can get up. With The Juggernaut down on the mat, Carmella delivers a couple more stomps to the back before dropping down with an elbow drop to the lower back. Turning Grace over, Carmella delivers a couple more stomps to the abdomen before dropping down on top of her opponent, hooking the leg in a pinfall attempt. 1…no! Jordynne Grace easily kicks out of that, the power of her doing so sending Carmella flying off of her, as The Staten Island Princess looks wide eyed at the referee and screams at him for not counting faster.

MICHAEL COLE: It’s gonna take a lot more than a few stomps to put The Juggernaut away!

WADE BARRETT: It certainly will, Carmella is really going to have to dig deep into her bag of tricks if she wants to come out of this one with the win.

Scrambling back up to her feet, Carmella rushes over to Jordynne and gives an additional stomp to the abdomen, before rolling her over and delivering two more stomps to the lower back area. As Jordynne starts to reach for her lower back, Carmella picks up her left leg,turning around and sitting down into a single leg Boston crab! Jordynne Grace cries out in pain, obviously feeling it in her lower back as she struggles to get to the ropes.

MICHAEL COLE: Now this might do the trick, partner!

WADE BARRETT: There’s that resourcefulness again! Smart move by Carmella after wearing down the lower back of The Juggernaut!

A look of pain is etched across the face of Jordynne Grace as she continues to struggle to the ropes. With a laugh, Carmella sits down lower into the move, really applying the pressure to the lower back! Grace is starting to move slower now, the pain becoming overwhelming. The referee bends down to check on her and ask her if she wants to quit, but she grits her teeth and shakes her head no! Digging deep, Jordynne continues to crawl closer to the ropes when suddenly she reaches out, grabbing the bottom rope to force a break. But Carmella isn’t letting go of the hold! The referee tells her she better release the hold, but she just laughs in his face so he begins the five count. 1…2…3…4…Carmella lets go of the hold! The referee admonishes Carmella for her behavior, but she just waves him off and strikes a cocky pose in the center of the ring as the crowd rains boos down upon her.

MICHAEL COLE: If I were Carmella, I would spend less time posing and more time capitalizing on this moment!

WADE BARRETT: No doubt about that! This isn’t a runway, it’s a wrestling ring, and Jordynne Grace is not an opponent you want getting back to her feet!

There appears to be no sign of that happening yet, however, as The Juggernaut is still hanging onto the bottom rope with one hand, and holding her lower back with the other, as Carmella continues to pose for the crowd. Slowly, she starts to crawl over to the corner, and the movement is caught by Carmella out of the corner of her eye. Turning her full attention back to her opponent, The Staten Island Princess walks over to her opponent to inflict more damage, but Jordynne Grace manages to surprise her, catching her with a drop toehold and sending her face first into the turnbuckles! As Carmella grabs at her face in pain, Jordynne gets to her feet and spins her around, delivering a kick to the abdomen and causing The Staten Island Princess to double over. The Juggernaut isn’t done though, as she leans over and begins delivering shoulder blocks over and over until Carmella crumples down into a heap in the corner!

MICHAEL COLE: It looks like Jordynne Grace is making a comeback here!

WADE BARRETT: This is exactly what I was afraid of! Carmella should’ve capitalized on Grace being down when she had the chance!

The crowd is cheering at this turn of events now, and Jordynne is clearly feeling it. With Carmella down, Grace makes her way over to the opposite corner. Turning around to face Carmella, Thicc Mama Pump runs full speed at her opponent, hitting her with a devastating running hip attack! Clearly dazed by that move, Carmella falls down to the mat in a heap. Seizing the opportunity, Jordynne drags Carmella into the center of the ring and covers her for the pin. 1…2…thr - - no!!! Somehow, at the last second, Carmella manages to barely kick out!

MICHAEL COLE: I think Carmella should’ve just stayed down and let it end there.

WADE BARRETT: I’m afraid of how this is going to wind up for her if it goes on too much longer!

Looking down at Carmella with a smirk, Jordynne stands up and then grabs Carmella by her hair before picking her up and slamming her back down to the mat with a bodyslam. Not content with that, The Juggernaut picks her opponent up again, this time whipping her into the ropes and when she comes back, hits her with a huge spinebuster! Once again, Jordynne goes for the pin, 1…2…thr - -NO!! Once again, Carmella somehow kicks out!

MICHAEL COLE: How is Carmella finding the energy to stay in this?

WADE BARRETT: I’m not sure, but something tells me her luck is only going to last for so long! Look at the expression on Jordynne Grace’s face!

Indeed, Jordynne Grace is looking pretty frustrated at the fact that she can’t seem to put Carmella away. Standing up, she signals to the crowd that the end is coming, and she turns around, looking at Carmella who is starting to crawl up to her knees in a daze. Shaking her head “no”, Jordynne grabs Carmella by the hair again, applying a pumphandle before lifting her up and flipping her over, looking to hit The Grace Driver, but Carmella slips down behind Grace, before catching The Juggernaut by surprise with a rollup pin! 1…2…3! Carmella gets one over on The Juggernaut!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner…The Staten Island Princess, CARMEEELLLAAA!

MICHAEL COLE: I cannot believe what we just witnessed, Wade! I thought for sure that Jordynne Grace had this match won!

WADE BARRETT: It just goes to show you Cole, never underestimate a woman like Carmella. I told you she’s resourceful, and it paid off in a big way tonight!

Carmella has rolled out of the ring, triumphantly raising her arms in the air as she laughs at the fans that are booing her. Meanwhile, Jordynne Grace is still sitting down on the mat, a look of shock on her face as she can’t believe Carmella was able to get one over on her. Watching Carmella head up the ramp, Jordynne slaps the mat in frustration as the cameras fade out to commercial.

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