Monday Night RAW 5-20-2024

As we return from the commercial break, a rather cinematic scene fills the screen. It transports the WWE Universe to the deck of a grand sailing vessel. The skies are dark, filled with billowing charcoal clouds that hurl powerful winds at the sea below. Sheets of rain unrelentingly slam the ship as it rocks wildly in turbulent waters. A half dozen sailors in antiquated, almost piratical costume frantically run to and fro in a desperate attempt to fend off looming disaster.

One sailor - a woman in a slightly fancier coat and hat than the others - hunches forward as she pushes through the heavy precipitation. Her hair’s plastered to her face and we can just see the tightness with which she’s clenching her teeth. Somehow she makes it to the ship’s wheel, where another woman stands with her back to the camera. While her identity is unknown at the moment, the plumed tricorn upon her head and long sea blue coat with the kanji ‘海賊’ emblazoned on its back suggests she’s the one in charge around here.

FIRST MATE: Captain! It’s a terrible storm...

The captain is unmoving, entirely focused on the storm raging around the ship.

FIRST MATE: The ship might sink!

Again the captain makes no move to address the first mate’s concerns.

FIRST MATE: Captain...are we really going?

At that the captain turns ever so slightly, and we see her nod her head very slowly.

MICHAEL COLE: Ladies and gentlemen, this is highly unusual.

WADE BARRETT: Cole, we’ve seen all kinds of things go down in recent weeks. The way things are going, Paul Burchill probably got hit on the head and thinks he’s a swashbuckler again!

Just as soon as it started the scene ends and we’re back in Bridgestone Arena where the live crowd is positively buzzing with energy. The ambient sound of a stormy sea can be heard over the PA system and the lights suddenly dim dramatically. After a boom of thunder, the sound turns to an instrumental overture never before heard in WWE. A chorus soon joins in with the music, elevating the atmosphere even further.

WADE BARRETT: Alright, who turned the lights out?

MICHAEL COLE: That music...I think I might know who this music is for, but there’s no way...

As the music swells a good percentage of the WWE Universe present in the building raise their phones in salute. The dark sea of humanity is dotted with fireflies. Finally the TitanTron reveals a logo with two letter Ks and a sword between them. A spotlight hits the stage just as someone who’s been missing from WWE television for months re-emerges in a fur trimmed captain’s coat and beplumed tricorn hat; there’s a monster pop from the crowd as they realize her identity at the same time as Michael Cole.




MICHAEL COLE: OH MY! KAIRI has returned to WWE! The Pirate Princess is back!

WADE BARRETT: This IS big news! The women’s division just got infinitely more unpredictable.

KAIRI raises her head slowly and the cheers from the crowd grow louder and louder. Finally she flashes a coy smile and throws her arms out wide as the arena lights go back up. Full of confidence and poise, she strides down to the ring with a graceful step. As she passes by delighted fans in the front rows, it’s clear this is a version of the Pirate Princess unseen in WWE for a long, long time. Gone is the ominous Kabuki makeup and dark costume colors. In their place are bright blue and white gear, light makeup and a smile devoid of malevolence.

The Pirate Princess circles the ring, seemingly gathering her thoughts as she re-enters the world of WWE. Though she stops to acknowledge a few of her fans it’s clear her attention is mostly on the ring. She stops only long enough to get a mic from ringside and then climbs the steps, each one with great intention. Once she’s in the ring, her music fades but the cheers remain. When she raises the mic she has to pause as there are more cheers and scattered chants of ‘WELCOME BACK!’. This elicits another smile from her, but then she finally has her chance to speak.

KAIRI: Thank you.

The simple phrase earns her more cheers from fans who are clearly delighted just to have the Pirate Princess back.

KAIRI: I mean it, thank you. Life has many ups and downs. You don’t know what’s waiting just over the horizon. Sometimes it’s good. Sometimes it’s - sometimes it’s not so good. I’ve seen a lot of both in my career. I’ve sailed from east to west many, many times. But your support and the feeling of standing in this ring will always warm Captain KAIRI’s heart. So thank you.

She laughs a little as the crowd roars back in approval.

KAIRI: I’ve been many things in my career. In Japan I was the ace, someone every other girl wanted to be and to beat. In WWE I’ve won the Mae Young Classic. I sailed my way to the NXT Women’s Championship. I’ve been WWE Women’s Tag Team Champion in the Kabuki Warriors!

Her smile fades just a little bit as she reminisces about her past. She takes her time, nodding slowly as she lets those accomplishments have their moment before fading into the past tense.

KAIRI: I’ve made friends. I’ve made enemies. And I’ve loved every minute of it all. But there’s one thing that keeps escaping from me. No matter how hard I search and how far I sail, that treasure escaped me. But that time is over. It’s time for me to finally show you all what I’m truly capable of.

Slowly her smile returns, word by word.

KAIRI: From now on you’ll see the full power of the Pirate Princess. No risk is too big. No opponent is too dangerous. I will sail my way to the top and finally become the thing I was always meant to be. The thing you all believed I should be. WWE is in a strange time right now. I wonder if Bull Nakano or Wendy Richter will return next week?! Anything can happen!

KAIRI chuckles at her own joke, but soon enough she’s back to business.

KAIRI: But I promise you that I won’t rest until KAIRI is finally WWE Women’s Champion! Serena, Dakota, and everyone else? I look forward to fighting you soon. Let’s set sail on a new adventure.

She offers a salute as “The Last Voyage” hits again and begins to make her way to the back. Just as the scene fades out we hear the beginnings of a “LET’S GO KAIRI” chant from a section of the WWE Universe. KAIRI stops dead in her tracks, smiles, and continues on to the back.

We find ourselves backstage only moments before Corey Graves and Carmella go out for Graves’ match against Vampiro. Standing next to them with his normal goofy grin is Byron Saxton.

BYRON SAXTON: Corey, I can’t tell you how proud I am to see you doing what you have been doing the last few weeks in the ring. I mean, not just living your dream…but defeating top tier talents like you never missed a step in ten years. However; some fans have not jumped onto the Graves’ train just yet. They are calling the victories flukes and I know it must hurt you to not have the full support of the WWE Universe as you keep your momentum going into tonight’s match.

Graves gives a confused look, he doesn’t understand why Byron is saying what he’s saying, and then there’s even a little anger as he looks over at Carmella and back to Byron.

COREY GRAVES: Byron, I’ve always known you are just ridiculously bad at your job. I mean for years I carried your ass at the commentary table. But for a second I guess I expected you to do an ounce of work. Do you not remember who I was before my injuries? Do you not remember the man that was in FCW and NXT with you when you still had it in your little mind you were worthy of being a WWE wrestler?

Byron is a little taken aback from Graves’ comments.

BYRON SAXTON: I remember you…

COREY GRAVES: Then you should’ve remembered back then, just like now, I don’t give a damn what the fans thought of me. The only reason I twisted myself into the good little boy those morons wanted to think I was, was because liking me was what I needed to keep my paycheck coming and to keep me in the business I never wanted to leave.

You can see a seething hatred in the eyes of Graves.

COREY GRAVES: I danced like a little monkey in a suit for them, I dumb myself down to their level. I spoon fed them how to feel about each and every wrestler because they were too stupid to think for themselves. I had those idiots eating out of my palm, but I don’t need them anymore. Them cheering or booing me doesn’t affect my paying for my house, my family, it doesn’t put food in my child’s mouth anymore. And it makes me sick to think that I was ever reliant on them.

Graves looks over at his darling wife who is loving her man getting this off his chest.

COREY GRAVES: But to answer your question…I’ve won two huge matches in the last week and I’m about to add another name to the list of my victims. I don’t care if the fans buy into me or not, if they believe I won my match last week against The Rock because I’m a better wrestler, or not. I’m going to keep winning, I’m going to go on to become the face of this company and they are going to have to get used to it. I put my life on hold for a decade and now I’m not taking a damn thing for granted and I’m not slowing myself down. If the powers that be knew what was best for business, after I walk out of the ring tonight with another win, they should be adding my name to one of those title matches next week. Because the sooner I get championship gold around my waist, the better off this company is. Now Byron, if you’ll excuse me I’m about to go do what I’ve always been destined to do…be the best wrestler inside a ring and leave losers like you in my wake.

With that Graves and Carmella push by Byron who looks very upset by the words spoken from his former colleague as the cameras go back to ringside.

MICHAEL COLE: Strong words from Corey Graves here tonight before his match, Wade! And speaking of Graves, last week on RAW we saw what might have been an early contender for shocking moment of the year - -

WADE BARRETT: Of the century, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: - - when he pinned The Rock to tally up his second win after a decade long hiatus from action!

WADE BARRETT: And he’ll be looking to keep that train moving on tonight when he faces off with WCW legend, Vampiro!

MICHAEL COLE: That he is, and that match is coming up next!

There’s almost a stunned silence as “Christcontrol” by Cancer Killing Gemini starts to pump through the speakers. Corey Graves steps out onto the stage, and the divided crowd erupts into thunderous boos.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Making his way to the ring, The Iron City Superstar, Coreeeyyy Graaaves!

Graves saunters his way down the ramp, flushed with all the confidence only a man on his kind of run can have. A few members of the crowd loudly jeer him, but he pays no notice as he climbs the stairs and slips through the ropes. He shrugs out of the jean jacket and drops it to one side to be grabbed by an attendant.

MICHAEL COLE: That’s the walk of a man who’s got the whole world in the palm of his hand.

WADE BARRETT: Graves is on a rocket bound for the moon, that’s enough to put a spring into anyone’s step.

There’s a brief moment of silence, and then the lights in the stadium go dark. The slow, haunting guitar opening to “To the Bone” by Mirel Wagner begins to play. After a moment, two red spotlights focus on the man emerging from backstage: Vampiro, his face painted bone white. The red light gives him a demonic appearance as he looks at the crowd, assailing him with boos.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent, from Parts Unknown, The Dark Guide Vampiroooo!

MICHAEL COLE: Vampiro’s here tonight for - - and this may surprise some younger fans - - his first ever match in the history of the WWE.

WADE BARRETT: Vampiro’s a well-known name in the industry, but never managed to transition over to the big leagues here, despite working with superstars like Sting, Eddie Guerrero, even the Great Muta.

The camera follows Vampiro as he stalks down the ramp, his attention laser-focused on Corey Graves. He mounts the stairs and steps through the ropes, walking a slow circle past Graves to the opposite corner. He shrugs out of his leather jacket and nudges it out of the ring with his foot. The official looks between the two men, before giving the nod to ring the bell.

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The two men circle each other, sizing each other up. Gradually they get closer, when finally they reach out and lock-up. For a moment they jockey for position, but Vampiro has a sizable weight advantage. He grabs Graves into a side headlock and drags him down to his knees. Graves struggles for a moment, trying to pull himself free, before delivering a sharp jab to Vampiro’s side, followed by another. As the grip starts to loosen, Graves shrugs it off and starts to rise. He grips Vampiro’s leg…dragon screw takedown! Vampiro lands hard!

MICHAEL COLE: Vampiro needs to be careful not to underestimate Corey here!

WADE BARRETT: Graves has shown several times now that, rookie or veteran, if you take your eyes off the ball, you’re going to get beaned!

Graves keeps hold of the leg, delivering a sharp elbow to the side of Vampiro’s knee! Another! He leaves Vampiro clutching the spot after the third and rises to his feet, showboating for the crowd who pelts him with boos. He then grabs Vampiro and pulls him up to his feet. He puts his arm around Vampiro’s shoulders and goes for the sweep, STO! He turns and lifts the leg for the pin! 1…2… NO! Kick Out at 2.9!

The Savior of Misbehavior rises to his feet, shaking his head. He takes a moment to try and form the game plan…and can only watch as Vampiro slowly sits up! The Dark Guide turns his gaze to Graves and glares at him, not breaking eye contact as he rises to his feet. Graves looks stunned for a moment, before charging in! He jumps – big boot!

MICHAEL COLE: That’s a nasty hit to take normally, but with the speed and height Graves had…!

Graves eats the boot dead center and falls, clutching his midsection. But Vampiro’s not one to let a fallen enemy lie. He grabs his opponent’s head and drags him to his feet, and a breathless Graves can do nothing to stop him as Vampiro hefts him up further, into a powerbomb position! Graves slams down hard, and Vampiro goes for his own cover! 1…2…Graves kicks out! Vampiro can’t believe it, he thought he had the match locked down. He gets up, emotion showing for the first time in the match. He grabs Graves and pulls him to a standing position, then lifts him up into a fireman's carry! Vampiro steps to the center of the ring, ready to finish it with the sit-out powerbomb he calls the Nail in the Coffin! He starts to go for it but Graves is showing signs of life. The Iron City Superstar manages to worm his way free! He grabs Vampiro in a rear chinlock, and drops! Double-knee backbreaker!

Vampiro clutches his back as he sinks to his knees! Graves grabs him and spins him around, pulling him into position for the back-to-belly piledriver he calls MK Ultra! He hefts Vampiro up, but he’s struggling to hold him up! He’s holding onto the Dark Guide by a thread!

MICHAEL COLE: I’m not sure Graves is going to be able to land it! Vampiro might get out of this!

There’s not enough time for Vampiro to wiggle free though, when Graves plants him hard! He grabs the leg and goes for the cover, 1…2…3!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, COREEEYYY GRAAAVES!

MICHAEL COLE: Corey Graves comes through again!

WADE BARRETT: That was hit or miss there Cole, Graves was a hair away from losing a couple of times, especially at the end!

”Christcontrol” again plays through the speakers as the ref raises Graves’ hand in celebration, and the crowd shows their displeasure; as much as they dislike Vampiro, Graves is the villain of the hour. His free hand goes to his midsection, where the faint red outline of a boot is beginning to form. After a moment, he rolls out of the ring and begins to make his way to the back, smirking at the fans as they continue to shower him with boos.

Abruptly, our cameras cut to the backstage area. More specifically, we are taken to the loading deck of the Resch Center, where we see production trucks, parked vehicles, and various WWE staff and security. Our cameras focus in on a conversation that is taking place between two large men in black shirts marked "SECURITY".

SECURITY GUARD #1: Hey, so...I'm sure you heard the boss on the radio earlier?

SECURITY GUARD #2: Yeah, that was really weird, wasn't it?

SECURITY GUARD #1: Yeah, it absolutely was. But, then again, it's not surprising. Have you seen some of the carnival freaks running around this place? I mean, between Doink the Clown, Luchasaurus, Vampiro, Goldust, Kizarny, and the weirdos in House of Torture...we really do have our work cut out for us lately.

SECURITY GUARD #2: You could say that again. But, the boss said that there was an unauthorized person backstage in red, black and white face paint? Who could that be?

SECURITY GUARD #1: I have no clue, but management really doesn't want 'em around here. He's apparently a big nuisance and is a total freakshow. So, we have some pretty clear instructions that if we see him, we're to escort him out of the arena immediately. 

SECURITY GUARD #2: Jeez. It never ends, huh? Hey, what time is lunch?

The two security guards continue to banter back and forth, as the camera pulls back to reveal DANHAUSEN crouched behind a rolling locker. The whites of his eyes are very pronounced due to the red and black paint around them. He flashes his teeth, almost snarling at the security guards behind their backs. He lowers his head beneath the locker and speaks to himself.



DANHAUSEN: How did they know to expect Danhausen? My plan to steal sacks of money from Tera Ryzing has been foiled yet again, and now the guards are on high-alert. Must avoid the lurking and sneaky security goblins. Shh, quiet as a ghost, Danhausen shall be!

Danhausen again peeks his head over the equipment, surveying the scene around him and keeping his eyes fixed on the security guards who are roaming around the area now. His wide eyes dart back and forth quickly. He sneaks back down to a seated position and again speaks to himself.

DANHAUSEN: Danhausen must find a way around these two security guards so that I can meet with Tera Ryzing - who is now apparently the new King of Kingshausen, isn't that nice? Imagine, Danhausen in the WWF, bringing curses to pandas around the world and collecting teeth for this marvelous empire! Yes, picture the ratings soaring to the moon! Think of the chaos, think of the merchandise, think of the teeth! Perhaps a tiny contract worth many sacks of human monies, yes?

Danhausen quickly peeks his head up and quickly brings it back down.

DANHAUSEN: Danhausen must act quickly!

He reaches into his back pocket and pulls out a...jar of teeth? Danhausen gives the jar a little shake, causing the teeth to rattle about inside. He smiles a devious grin.

DANHAUSEN: Ah, yes. My nifty jar of teeth. Never leave my human dwelling without it!

Danhausen clutches the jar of teeth in his right hand and looks over his shoulder, before rocketing the jar of teeth into the wall! The jar shatters, teeth clatter on the ground and all attention in the area is directed towards the sound of shattered glass.

SECURITY GUARD #1: What the hell was that?

SECURITY GUARD #2: We better check that out...

The two security guards briskly jog off towards the sound of the broken glass, leaving the entrance to the backstage area completely unguarded. Danhausen's head pops up again.

DANHAUSEN: Yes, very nice .. very evil..

Danhausen stands up and tip-toes towards the door, opening it up and slinking off into the locker room area, before we cut back to the commentary crew at ringside.

MICHAEL COLE: Now, what the heck was that about?

WADE BARRETT: It's probably better if you don't know, Cole…

A black-and white picture is shown as the camera stays fixed on the image of a distraught-looking Toni Storm. She's practically lying back in her chair as she starts to lament about the situation.



TONI STORM: Luther, darling, can you believe it? Those McMahon-Helmsley's told me they just don't have room for me tonight on their card. Me! A woman of the highest quality one could even hope to attain in their entire life! Look at me, Luther! Do I look as though I would not be better than any of those trollops they have prancing around like commonplace hussies? Throw them a nickel, and they will probably do whatever you please! Absolutely dreadful!

Luther keeps his composure as he listens; Toni, however, only appears to get more agitated as she sits up and slams her fist down on the arm of the chair.

TONI STORM: I didn't come here to be window-dressing, Luther. I came here to stand out amongst the rabble they have populating this sport! Imagine not having a spot for me to even showcase my brilliance live in front of a studio audience! Hogwash! That's what it is, Luther- - absolute hogwash!

As she finally looks back upon him for a reaction, he nods his head courteously to agree with the sentiment of her words.

TONI STORM: Well, don't just stand there, Luther! We need to prepare ourselves for when they do have a spot for my talents! It's only a matter of time before Stephanie and Hunter come to their senses, and we need to be prepared. Please make sure the bags are ready, and prepare the car for my exit. Meanwhile, I'm going to make sure that I speak with somebody about this absolutely dreadful situation. Stephanie will certainly wish to at the very least tell me about my schedule for the future. Move along, darling, move along and make it snappy!

She hops out of the chair, checking her hair to make sure it's got the proper amount of bounce to it and is perfectly in place by checking in the mirror. Luther grabs the handles of the suitcases in the locker room as he makes for the door, pulling it open for her as she taps him on the cheek with her hand.

TONI STORM: Now, Luther, let's talk about the situation of these women's championships as we walk. Certainly there must be a reason they haven't been given the attention they deserve, no? Serena Deeb may appear to be the cream of the crop, but let's be honest, she's about as entertaining as watching grass grow. Becky Lynch has some panache but no real gumption to make it as a competitor. I mean, frankly, between the two of them, they might make one good champion, but nowhere near the caliber I am. It's frankly astounding that they couldn't find at least one decent woman to represent this company and bring it forward into the future before me. Don't you agree?

Luther is about to speak, but she raises a hand, which causes him to hold his tongue. Toni turns to face the door next to her, which is clearly labeled "Stephanie McMahon".

TONI STORM: Alas, darling, this is my stop, and I do have business to tend to. Take care of those bags and start the car; I'll come along shortly.

She knocks before straightening herself out and entering the room of one of the co-owners of WWE. Luther sighs for a moment before he begins his trek down the hallway as the cameras cut to the announce team in full HD and color television goodness now.

WADE BARRETT: I'm not sure if Toni Storm realizes this, but there's a lot of ladies that would take issue with what she's saying. I like the gumption she has to really dig in and begin her journey in the WWE, though.

MICHAEL COLE: She's certainly something; I'm not quite sure what yet, though. Let's hope, for her sake, that she's ready to deal with any consequences that might come along just by brazenly talking about the women's roster in the open like that.

WADE BARRETT: It could be fun to see you have to admit, Cole. It'll motivate these ladies to really dig their heels in to prove Storm wrong.

MICHAEL COLE: Well, between Toni Storm and our upcoming opponent for Kazuchika Okada, we've certainly got some real personalities arriving in the WWE.

WADE BARRETT: A bit of an open door policy for our Co-Owners. As long as you can do the work, they don't mind what the state of your noggin is, Cole.

MICHAEL COLE: Well, I don't know about the state of Okada's noggin, but he's going to have to put in some serious work if he's looking to pick up his first victory against the returning Goldust coming up next!

The lights over the stage go out as the sound of a coin dropping is heard over the P/A system before "Boris" plays. Kazuchika Okada shows up under blue lights with his back turned to the fans and his arms extending out to the sides before he spins around, adjusts his robe, and heads down to the ring with a confident stride.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Making his way to the ring, The Rainmaker Kaaazuchikaaa Okaaadaaa!

MICHAEL COLE: While the fatal four-way two weeks ago didn't turn out the way Okada planned; he was one of the last two men left in the match.

WADE BARRETT: But the frustration of Okada is evident; the House of Torture's grumbling around in the backstage area is being talked about by every superstar, Cole.

MICHAEL COLE: Well, tonight he's got a chance to prove that he's got what it takes to secure a victory in the WWE. He's taking on a very controversial superstar in his own right, Goldust. Let me tell you, Wade, that The Bizarre One is not a man you want to underestimate either.

WADE BARRETT: Trust me, Cole, I know how my family jewels felt just watching him kick superstars in the giblets when I was younger. I wouldn't want that man to be anywhere near mine.

Okada quickly ascends the stairs and ducks into the ring before he climbs up to the second rope, leaning forward as he taps the post and then leans back as he lets the fans bask in his golden attire and physique. After he hops back down into the ring, he removes his robe and hands it off to a ringside attendant as "Goldust" by Jim Johnston hits the P/A system of the arena and gold sparks begin to fall down on the stage. The flash of cameras can be seen as Goldust stands at the top of the stage with his own flamboyantly gold attire and robe to match. His arms extend much like Okada's did, but he brings them to his chest as he rubs them up his torso before biting at the audience as he makes his way down to the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent, "The UnNatural", Gooolduuust!

MICHAEL COLE: What an entrance, and quite frankly, I'm not sure anybody else's could top it.

WADE BARRETT: Just make sure he doesn't come over here, Cole. I don't need any sort of rubs and tugs from that loon.

MICHAEL COLE: I think he's more worried about his co-star in the center of the ring. Let's face it, Wade, you can't compete with the looks of a man in his prime like Kazuchika Okada.

As Goldust slowly ascends the stairs, he lifts his robes to keep them from getting tarnished in any way. Goldust places his hand on the top rope as he begins to move his hand and fingertips slowly and sensually along the surface of it while he walks along the apron and stares at Okada, who looks to both sides, seeming to be weirded out by the experience. Goldust slowly ducks into the ring as he takes one last look at Okada before heading for the turnbuckle corner.

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Okada isn't going to wait forever, though, as he absolutely clobbers Goldust from behind with a forearm strike that smashes him into the turnbuckle corner. Goldust spins around but gets hit with kick after kick. Okada is not relenting as he stomps him down into the corner before shouting in Japanese at him. Okada pulls him up as he presses him into the corner for a moment before he unleashes on Goldust with a chop straight across the chest. The Bizarre One holds onto his chest for a moment but then leans further into the corner as he asks for another one from Okada. This seems to unsettle Goldust's opponent, as Okada backs away for a moment before he snaps out of it and angrily steps forward again with an even louder chop across the chest of Goldust.

MICHAEL COLE: Goldy is a little strange, and that is a prime example of just how strange he can be.

WADE BARRETT: If I were Okada, I don't think I would've been able to shrug that off so easily. Goldust is clearly getting some type of enjoyment from the administration of those chops.

Okada now lays a forearm right into the jaw of Goldust before a third chop rings out for the fans in attendance as they "WOOOOO!" in response. Okada silences them with a finger raised to his lips before he delivers another loud chop across the chest of Goldust, who now walks forward out of the corner before falling flat on his face in the center of the ring. Okada claps his hands for his successful efforts before he reaches down and grabs Goldust. Okada now lifts him up, wraps an arm around the neck, and spins Goldust over so he's facing the lights before he drops him with a neckbreaker in the center of the ring. Okada now lays over top of him and hooks the leg. 1....2....NO! Goldust gets his shoulder up in the nick of time, and Okada looks as though his frustration is building now. Cursing at Goldust as he slaps him across the face, Goldust gets to a knee, but after he reels from the slap, Goldust looks back into the eyes of Okada as he taps his cheek, asking for another one. Okada slaps him again, and Goldust smiles as he looks at him once more and taps his cheek again.

MICHAEL COLE: Oh dear, I believe that the mind games of Goldust are really starting to get to Okada now.

WADE BARRETT: This is really disturbing, Cole. Goldust clearly is getting some sort of kinky pleasure from the pain!

MICHAEL COLE: Or maybe he just really likes that Okada is touching him in general?

Okada once again begins cursing as he begins to slap him not only on the right side of his face but slaps the other side as well. Okada begins to build up speed as he slaps him back and forth faster and faster until he finally backs up a few paces, slapping his knee repeatedly before he rushes forward and hits a high-impact knee strike straight to the head of Goldust. Hooking the leg once again, he leans heavily on top of Goldust this time, 1...2....3! NO! Goldust powers out of the move as he kicks his legs up, forcing Okada off of him. Okada gets up and begins to stomp around the ring for a moment before he drops down and slaps the canvas over and over again. Goldust slowly crawls for the ropes as Okada gets in the referee's face and begins to lament his lack of speed on the count. Okada's displeasure with the referee ultimately winds up costing him, though, as Goldust rolls him up from behind with a schoolboy, 1...NO! Okada powers out of the pinfall attempt quickly as he gets to his feet and comes at Goldust. but is lifted up and drops onto the knee of The Bizarre One with an atomic drop that spins him around in pain. Goldust, however, isn't going to waste his opportunity and now lifts him even higher from behind and drops him again with an inverted atomic drop.

WADE BARRETT: Okada took his eyes off the ball for a little too long Cole.

MICHAEL COLE: He's certainly paying for it now, as Goldust is taking full advantage of his opportunities.

As Okada is holding onto his lower stomach, he spins around right into a jab, and then another jab, and then a third jab before Goldust reaches down and thrusts his hips forward and nails an elbow to the middle of his forehead that causes Okada to falter back into the ropes leaning against them. Goldust now rushes forward, and both men go tumbling out and over the top ropes after a clothesline. However, Goldust securely lands with his feet on the apron as he runs his hand up his chest again, and the crowd is absolutely exploding with cheers for his antics. Okada slowly gets to his feet as Goldust squares his attention back onto the man and dives off with an Apron Cannonball that flattens both men onto the protective mats outside of the ring. Goldust is the first to stir as he holds onto his back and grabs the back of Okada as he helps him up to his feet now. Okada now leans against Goldust for support, but as he turns to look, the surprise is evident when his eyes widen, and he immediately begins to swat at Goldust and backs away as quick as he can to get away from him.

WADE BARRETT: Okada probably thought it was a member of the House of Torture that had come down to support him, but it was Goldust!

MICHAEL COLE: All he did was help the man to his feet; he wanted to be sportsmanlike!

WADE BARRETT: No way, Cole, this is all mind games!

The referee tells both men to get back into the ring as they roll under the ropes at the same time and are practically nose-to-nose now in front of each other. Goldust is the first to react as he grabs Okada by the face and puts him in a lip lock, but Okada shoves him off and rushes forward with an attempt at a lariat, but Goldust ducks under it and scoops him around from behind, lifts him up, and delivers a back suplex that makes Okada cringe in pain on the canvas. Okada gets to his feet as Goldust rebounds off the ropes, wraps an arm around his neck from behind, and hits a bulldog! As Okada stumbles to get to his feet, he walks right into Goldust, who lifts him up and delivers a spinebuster. Okada is pulling his way up the ropes as he holds onto his back, but Goldust puts him in a half-nelson before he uses his free hand to grab the arm that's pinned down across the face and squeezes it as tight as he can around Okada's face.

MICHAEL COLE: That move is based off the Coba Clutch, a move that Goldust has modified to turn into his own moves, which he likes to call Hush...Hush, Sweet Charlotte!

WADE BARRETT: Okada isn't going to tap for the second time, is he?

Okada desperately reaches to try and break the hold, but it's slowly taking the breath out of him. Okada now stretches his arm and fingers as far as he can for the ropes, but they are just out of reach. Goldust yanks back hard, but Okada isn't willing to give up yet, as he uses his free arm to grasp the one Goldust has him in the half-nelson with and drops forward to toss Goldust over top of him to get the hold to release finally. Both men meet in the center of the ring with a collar-and-elbow tie-up before Okada turns it into a wristlock. Goldust wraps his leg around Okada's and then reaches between his own to pull Okada's other leg to drop him back onto the canvas as both men get back up. Okada goes for a lariat, but Goldust ducks it and kicks him in the gut before hooking an arm around his neck. The crowd cheers loudly as they know what's coming, Goldust wastes no time and lifts Okada up as if for a suplex but instead spins in the middle of it and drops him with a reverse cutter, FINAL CUT! Goldust now crawls on top of Okada as he leans forward with his chest right over the face of Okada, 1....2....3!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, GOOOLDUUUST!

MICHAEL COLE: It appears as though the mind games you were talking about worked, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: Goldust not only angered Okada, but he also actually made him lose his focus, and as soon as that was lost, it spelled the end for Okada.

MICHAEL COLE: Okada is once again just short of a victory here, but I have to imagine that Goldust will be feeling those chops and slaps he left for quite some time after this one.

As "Goldust” hits the P/A system again, the lights once again begin to dim as The Bizarre One puts a hand on the cheek of Okada and gently strokes it before he gets to his feet. Heading to the turnbuckle corner, he stands atop the second rope as he runs his hands up his chest again and poses with his arms spread wide for the fans for a moment. The cheers of the crowd clearly pleases him as he rolls out of the ring and begins up the rampway, slapping hands with a few of the fans before he exits stage right.

"Kombat (remix)" by def rebel blasts over the speakers. Pink lights flash on the stage as Dakota Kai walks onto the stage, smirking at the negative reception from the crowd. Dakota laughs it off as she reaches the ring. She walks around it before fiercely grabbing a microphone from a member of staff at ringside and entering the ring through the ropes. She stands in the middle of the ring and waits for the crowd response to die down.

MICHAEL COLE: This crowd is certainly letting Dakota know they didn’t appreciate her actions recently.

WADE BARRETT: She’s put a target on the champion’s back and she’s taken her down.

MICHAEL COLE: When Deeb’s back was turned.

WADE BARRETT: You can’t argue with results, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: Perhaps not but next week at Unforgiven, it’ll be a face to face one on one situation.

WADE BARRETT: And we might very well have a new women’s champ because of it!



DAKOTA KAI: For weeks now, I've been wanting my opportunity... my shot... the shot that everybody knows I deserve. At Unforgiven, I'll have it. Very soon, I'll be challenging for the Women's Championship and that's come at exactly the right time for me. With all of this momentum on my side, I don't see what could go wrong at this point. I mean, Serena Deeb has been challenged before, but it's time for me to do what someone like Tiffany Stratton failed to do and that's actually win and stop Serena in her tracks. It's about damn time someone did. But hey, I took her down last week and that was just a taste of what's to come.

She states with a confident nod of her head.

DAKOTA KAI: At the end of the day, Serena has been nothing more than a fluke champion. Sure, she has overcome some challenges, but she's soon going to face the biggest challenge of all and that is where things come crashing down around her. That's just the harsh reality of this situation. She's never faced anybody like me, and she won't know how to handle it. Just look at what happened last week!

Dakota once again smirks as the crowd boos.

DAKOTA KAI: Serena Deeb is a pushover and not fit to be carrying that Women's Championship. It's time for someone to finally take her down... and you are looking at the person to do that job.

Before she can continue, Bullet Club Red’s music hits the P.A. system and the crowd comes to their feet. They turn their attention to the top of the ramp and wait for the arrival of the Women’s Champion.

MICHAEL COLE: All right, here we go now. Serena Deeb has heard enough!

WADE BARRETT: She can’t let anyone get a word in edgewise on her. Kind of pathetic.

MICHAEL COLE: Oh please. Deeb has been hunted down by Stratton and Kai since she won the title now. Both women trying their best to get in her head.

WADE BARRETT: And I think it’s going to work this time!

Dakota throws the mic down and puts her hands out to her side. She motions at the ramp for Serena to come on down and face her. Deeb still has yet to make her appearance at the top of the ramp, though.

WADE BARRETT: Well, where is she, Cole? Where is the fighting champion you’ve been going on about!?

MICHAEL COLE: Wait a second, someone just slid into the ring!

As Dakota is facing the ramp, someone comes in through the crowd and slides into the ring. It’s Serena Deeb! She grabs Kai and spins her around, kicking her in the midsection and hoisting her up and over with a double underhook suplex! Kai is down and not being allowed to recover as Deeb mounts the challenger and starts drilling her with multiple stiff right hands to the face. One…two…three…four…five…six! She’s not stopping either!

WADE BARRETT: How cheap!

MICHAEL COLE: Turnabout is fair game here, Wade! Kai wants to attack Deeb from behind, she’ll do the same back!

WADE BARRETT: That’s not very champion-like, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: Perhaps Serena Deeb is tired of being hunted and wants to go on the attack.

WADE BARRETT: Finally, some security!

Security has rushed down to the ring but the damage is done. They pull Deeb off the challenger but she’s got quite a few good shots in on her. They pull Deeb back and help Dakota to her feet. Deeb is taken out of the ring and security lets her go. She doesn’t try and get back in the ring, she just backs up the ramp with a big smile on her face. Dakota is getting her wits about her now and takes a step towards the ropes and starts screaming stuff at Deeb.

MICHAEL COLE: Score is now one to one for these two women. Next week will settle the score!

WADE BARRETT: You just pissed off the wrong woman, Deeb! Next week we are gonna see a new champion!

The shot shifts; we’re backstage, looking at Cathy Kelley, who smiles into the camera with her microphone in hand.

CATHY KELLEY: Ladies and gentlemen, last night we watched an absolutely dominant performance to open Sunday Night Heat. Making his main roster debut in his first match since the beginning of the new era, he defeated Fuego del Sol in just under a minute. Please welcome my guest tonight, Bron Breakker.

Bron Breakker steps into frame at this introduction and the camera shifts to include him. He towers over Cathy in a black A-shirt and jeans, and leans in a little so she don’t have to stretch to hold the microphone up for him.



CATHY KELLEY: Thanks for joining me. First off, congratulations on your impressive win last night!

BRON BREAKKER: Thank you.

CATHY KELLEY: I did want to ask, it didn’t seem like you were too excited to talk to Megan. Would you mind explaining why that is?

Bron rolls his shoulders uncomfortably for a moment before answering.

BRON BREAKKER: I didn’t have anything to say. I did my talking in the ring, and I felt like that was enough.

Cathy looks a little surprised by the response; her brow furrows slightly.

CATHY KELLEY: You did send a message, I suppose. But you didn’t want to say anything at all? No statement for the WWE Universe, on your first night here in the main roster?

BRON BREAKKER: To the WWE Universe? No. Don’t get me wrong, the fans are great, and I wouldn’t be here without them. None of us would. But I’m looking at things realistically here, Cathy. I’m one of, if not the youngest member of the active roster right now, and have some of the least experience. And yet I’ve got legends like Christian, Shawn Michaels, CM Punk, even The Rock all looking at me, trying to figure out if I’m an easy target, or if I’m a contender. If I’m a predator, or if I’m prey. So before I start worrying about signing autographs or selling t-shirts, I want to send a message to everyone in that locker room. I want to show them how, in just four years, I became a two-time NXT Champion. Unified it with the NXT UK Championship. I want every single one of them to know when they step through those curtains, they’re not stepping in the ring with just another superstar. They’re stepping in the ring with a force of nature.

CATHY KELLEY: I think that’s a message Fuego is going to be feeling for a couple of weeks now. Now, before I let you go, I wanted to talk to you about, as you mentioned, you’re a two-time NXT Champion. Given the history that your family has –

Bron’s gaze hardens, and his voice turns chilly.

BRON BREAKKER: I don’t want to talk about my family.

CATHY KELLEY: But –

BRON BREAKKER: No. This interview is done.

Before Cathy can reply, Bron turns and steps out of frame, his body language much tighter and more tense than it was. After a moment she turns to look at the camera.

CATHY KELLEY: F-fair enough. Back to you guys.

The camera changes again to show Michael Cole and Wade Barrett at the announce table.

MICHAEL COLE: Looks like Bron’s family is a bit of a touchy subject for him.

WADE BARRETT: I can’t blame him. Imagine, you’re this hot new superstar, have your whole career ahead of you, and all people want to talk to you about is Steiner math?

MICHAEL COLE: Well I have no doubts that regardless, Bron Breakker will make quite an impact here in the WWE. And another one who’s looking to step out from the shadow of his family and make an impact is Charlie Dempsey, and he’s looking to gain some positive momentum as he goes up against Malakai Black in our next match!

"Crawl" by def rebel hits and the purple lights announce the arrival of Charlie Dempsey who comes out with a swagger as he holds up his fists for a moment and punches forward towards the crowd as makes his way down the rampway with a grimace on his face that could turn a man pale if he had to face him.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Making his way to the ring, Chaaarliiieee Deeempseeey!

MICHAEL COLE: Dempsey has been as cruel and cunning in the ring as his father William Regal used to be since his debut. Though he may have had his bumps here and there to slow his momentum it's only a matter of time before he makes waves here in my opinion, Wade.

WADE BARRETT: He's definitely as rough and tough as they come, but he's also technically sound, and has the experience of a veteran even though he's a rookie. A real triple threat in the ring if you will, not many men starting out can claim that.

MICHAEL COLE: It'll certainly be interesting to see how he competes here tonight in a very different sort of match with a darker superstar like Malakai Black.

Before Dempsey ascends the stairs he thumbs at his nose, climbing the stairs before looking out at the fans who give him a pretty mixed reaction. Dempsey ducks his way into the ring through the ropes and takes off his jacket as he tosses it to a ringside attendant, running the ropes to get a feel for them and really bending them back to see what he's got to work with. Just as it seems he's prepared himself the arena goes pitch black before the lights come on and smoke is gathered at the top of the stage. A masked form begins to emerge as if from the mist itself.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent, Malakaaaiii Blaaack!

MICHAEL COLE: We have our fair share of superstars that have this eerie presence, but I'm not sure that anybody beats this man. Malakai Black gives me an absolutely ominous feeling every time he comes out here, as if he brings doom with him for any who stand in his presence.

WADE BARRETT: He's certainly not meant for the faint of heart, he's a very dangerous man in his own right and he's not shy about doing whatever it takes to really get in the mind of his opponent so he can secure a victory.

As he reaches the middle of the rampway on his walk down the lights go out again and he's suddenly seated in the center of the ring. Dempsey unaware of this as he looks up the rampway is aghast as he turns to see Black in the center of the ring now.

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Dempsey rushes forward with an attempt for a kick but it's caught by Black who spins his leg around and trips Dempsey down to the canvas. Both men get to their feet as Dempsey rushes in again but gets caught with a roundhouse kick clear across the mush, which is then followed with a spinning heel kick that takes him back down to the canvas as Black leans back into the corner and removes his mask finally, the smirk on his face shows how pleased with himself he is. Tossing the mask aside he moves to Dempsey on the canvas and wraps his arms around the waist before he deadlifts him up for a German Suplex with a bridge for the pin, 1...2, NO! Dempsey rolls the shoulder up and breaks the grip of Black in the process as he scrambles to his feet and nails a European Uppercut that knocks Black back.

MICHAEL COLE: Some hard shots here in the early going, but you have to wonder if that series of shots by Black has made Dempsey falter a bit here. Is he already getting into this young man's head?

WADE BARRETT: Dempsey is a professional through and through, he can't be so easily shaken, Cole. He's been subjected through his rigorous training process to be able to take at least a few hits, his father wouldn't have it any other way.

As Black staggers from the shot Dempsey wraps his arm around him and throws him over with a Belly-to-Back Suplex that knocks the wind out of him for a second as it takes him a moment to get back up to his feet. Pushing Black down he's hit in the face with a knee lift before Dempsey lifts him up and drops him with a Gutwrench Suplex and pins him to the canvas, 1...2...NO! Black powers out of it with his legs as he kicks Dempsey off of him and as Dempsey rushes back in he's caught with a monkey flip that sends him up and over the top rope outside of the ring. Black now rushes for the ropes as he launches himself over the top rope with a Tope Suicida that flattens Dempsey outside of the ring just as he's gotten back up. Black now takes his time to catch a breath after taking out Dempsey and grabs him by the back of the neck and tosses him back under the ropes into the ring.

MICHAEL COLE: Bit of a rough start here for Dempsey, but Black has definitely felt the effect of those suplexes by Dempsey as he's slowed down a bit.

WADE BARRETT: Like you said Cole, these men both hit pretty hard and they're quite well known for being a bit stiffer. It comes from the style of wrestling that they were both drawn to in their youths.

MICHAEL COLE: Indeed, Black was more drawn to the Japanese style and Dempsey clearly favoring a more European style. Both well known styles for not holding back when it comes to their strikes and maneuvers they hit in the ring.

As Black rolls into the ring he stares at his prey squirming on the ground and reaches down but gets caught with an inside cradle which transitions into a Bow and Arrow hold that stretches Black out painfully in the center of the ring. Black however doesn't give in as he pulls himself towards the ropes while the referee keeps a close eye for any change in his situation. As Black gets about an arms length away he starts getting red in the face as he collapses forward and his arms go limp. The referee grabs the arm and lifts it up, just as it looks like it might touch the canvas it lifts into the air as Black screams in a last ditch effort to pull himself forward and grabs the bottom rope to release the hold; the referee warns Dempsey who keeps holding on and begins the count: 1...2...3....4, Dempsey releases the hold as he gets in the referees face now who slowly backs into the corner as Dempsey prods him in the chest with a finger and gets warned not to do it again.

WADE BARRETT: Dempsey nearly had the submission victory there but it appears as though he's gotten a little too brazen in his aggrivated state after he had to release the Bow and Arrow hold.

MICHAEL COLE: I'm sure both mens nerves are getting frayed in this one, neither has quite been able to put the other away and end this thing despite giving it their all.

As the referee and Dempsey continue to argue Black holds his throat as he gets up and leans against the ropes for a moment. Dempsey waves off the referee as he turns to Black but doesn't see the swift BLACK MASS as the educated foot nails the temple of Dempsey and sends him staggering to a knee. Black isn't finished though as he uses the foot to hook under the chin of Dempsey and help lift him back to his feet before the lights turn off in the arena! As they come back on, two men in all black, including masks, attack both Black and Dempsey from behind at the same time. A vicious superkick to the jaw of Black knocks him into the corner, and both men then pick up Dempsey and toss him head first into the groin of Black in the corner. One of them exits the ring as he reaches under the ring apron and pulls out a kendo stick which he tosses to his friend before he pulls one out for himself. After he rolls back in, both men unload on Dempsey and Black with no remorse for either competitor shown and the referee has no choice but to ring the bell and end the match.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Due to outside inteference this match has resulted in a ruling of NO CONTEST!

MICHAEL COLE: We need security down here!

WADE BARRETT: Where the hell is security for our superstars?

Both men continue to stomp the participants of the match as they toss their now broken kendo sticks aside. The bell continues to ring as the referee tries to tell them to stop but they move to get him and he quickly bails out of the ring. They stare into the camera as they are over the bodies of both Dempsey and Black now.



MICHAEL COLE: Black and Dempsey were having a very well fought contest here, but it appears these men weren't enjoying the show!

WADE BARRETT: Enough that they took matters into their own hands and decimated both men!

MICHAEL COLE: Who the hell are they, and where is security when you need them, Wade?

WADE BARRETT: I've asked myself that many times during my in-ring career, Cole. Never there when you absolutely need them!

We cut to the backstage area where Jay White is walking down one of the backstage hallways and he stops in front of a door. The name placard on the door reads “Hunter Hearst Helmsley” on it. White lets out a big sigh and knocks on the door. A voice from inside beckons him into the room. Jay opens the door, walking through and closing it behind him.

JAY WHITE: You, uh...wanted to see me?

TRIPLE H: I did, Jay, I wanted to talk to you about what happened last week on RAW. That little speech you went out there and gave, did it make you feel any better about yourself? Cause it certainly didn't do you any favors, but I digress let's get down to business. I wanted to open up a dialogue and really talk things out business wise.

Jay’s eyes narrow a bit.

JAY WHITE: And what did you want to talk about?

TRIPLE H: Well, I feel as though some of the stuff you said in your speech was a little…misleading to the WWE Universe.

JAY WHITE: Misleading?

TRIPLE H: Well, you said that MJF was able to come and go as he pleased. Which is not necessarily the truth, and it gives the impression he doesn’t have to be on every show.

JAY WHITE: Uh…as far as I know, he doesn’t?

TRIPLE H: Well, funny thing, I didn’t happen to see you at the last staff meeting. As a matter of fact, I’ve never seen you at one, so maybe that’s just your understanding of the situation. It is, however, not the truth. Secondly, you talked about “dealing with the Jay White problem” - -

Triple H does the finger quotes just like Jay White did last week.

TRIPLE H: I guess, I’m not sure exactly what you’re referring to with that.

White scoffs and tilts his head back, rolling his eyes.

JAY WHITE: Oh, you cannot be serious right now.

TRIPLE H: Jay, I didn’t call you in here to joke with you.

JAY WHITE: Well, uh…in that case, yeah. It seems like you and your wife have an issue with me, personally. And have had one for a while from the feeling I’ve been getting.

Hunter lets out a light chuckle.

TRIPLE H: Now, Jay, what makes you feel that way?

JAY WHITE: Uh…the way your wife talks to me?

TRIPLE H: She talks to you in the same manner she talks to everyone else, MJF included.

Jay stops for a second, saying nothing. He can’t tell if Hunter is being serious or not at this point again. He assumes that this is a serious conversation still.

JAY WHITE: I would say your wife is a bit more disrespectful towards me than she is anyone else. I’m not sure what interactions of ours you’ve seen, but I’d say you’ve missed a couple if you don’t feel the same way.

TRIPLE H: My wife hasn’t been disrespectful to anyone in any way, Jay. If you feel that way, maybe you’re the one with the problem. You can call it having a guilty conscience maybe.

JAY WHITE: I assure you, Mr. Helmsley, that’s not the case. I’m also going to assure you that whatever problem it is that you two have with me, Maxwell Jacob Friedman is not going to be the answer to that problem. Cause I’m going to mop the floor with your boy at Unforgiven and if push comes to shove and you feel like getting in that ring with me, I’ll do the same to you too.

Triple H stands up now, a menacing and angry look on his face. He walks around the table and gets right in the face of Jay White.



TRIPLE H: I’m not sure how things went where you came from, but here in the WWE, you’re gonna learn to have a little more respect towards management and especially towards my wife. If Stephanie and I didn’t have a problem with you before, I will be the one to assure you that we do indeed have a problem now. I think this meeting is over, I wish you the best of luck in your match at Unforgiven, Jay. You are definitely going to need all the help you can get.

White smirks at Triple H as he turns and leaves the room as the cameras go back to ringside.

WADE BARRETT: Jay White is a bigger idiot than I thought he was, and I thought he was a huge idiot to begin with!

MICHAEL COLE: Not the man you want to be on the bad side of if you’re Jay White.

WADE BARRETT: Triple H is going to make sure Friedman is ready to go at Unforgiven if he hasn’t already. It’ll be Jay White’s biggest test yet!

MICHAEL COLE: Could not agree more, Wade, but I also think Jay White will be ready and turn some heads at Unforgiven! But now, it’s time for our main event! After being tormented by The Unholy Union for the last couple of weeks, Alexa Bliss looks to get some measure of payback as she goes one on one with Albya Fyre!

The crowd roars with anticipation as the sounds of “Fight Me” by def rebel erupt from the speakers, signaling the beginning of tonight's main event. Excitement surges through the arena for Alexa Bliss as she emerges at the top of the ramp, her face lit up with a radiant smile. She makes her way down to the ring, showing tiny hints of uncertainty at her recent dealings, but she still engages with the fans, exchanging high-fives with her adoring supporters.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall! Introducing first, making her way to the ring, she is Five Feet of Fury, Alexaaa Bliiiss!

MICHAEL COLE: Alexa looks phenomenal tonight, Wade, but can she fend off The Unholy Union? Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn seem fixated on her. Last night on Heat, Isla Dawn, part of that unhinged duo, viciously attacked Liv Morgan!

As Alexa approaches the ring, she continues to soak in the fans’ adulation, her movements graceful yet confident. She entangles her arms in the middle rope, savoring the moment, before whipping off her coat and twirling through the top and middle ropes to enter the ring. She strikes a signature pose, her five feet exuding defiance and determination in tonight’s match up against Alba Fyre.

WADE BARRETT: I don’t want to see the rest of their plan unfold. Can we just form a prayer circle that Alexa stays on top of things tonight!? If it isn’t the witches trying to torture her, it’s Lilly!

Suddenly, the arena plunges into darkness, cutting Barrett off mid-sentence. An eerie hush falls over the crowd as “The Depths” by def rebel begins to play, its haunting melody echoing through the PA system. The screen blazes with fiery colors, casting an ominous glow. Alba Fyre appears at the top of the ramp, a menacing figure with a baseball bat ablaze in front of her. She stares down at Alexa with an intensity that promises a brutal main event clash.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And her opponent, making her way to the ring, she is one half of The Unholy Union, Albaaa Fyyyre!

Alba walks down the ramp, her eyes never leaving Bliss, the flame on her bat extinguishing with a breath as she approaches the ring. As she does this, the cameras show quick flashes of Liv Morgan grimacing in pain from the double knee attack against a limousine as we see a replay of Isla’s brutal act on last night’s episode of Sunday Night Heat. As the final shots show Liv Morgan being attended to by medical staff, the replay cuts to the other half of the Unholy Union, Isla Dawn, a chilling smile on her face and her eyes gleaming with malice as she’s hauled away.

MICHAEL COLE: In an act of sheer brutality, Isla Dawn showed the WWE Universe just how far The Unholy Union are willing to go to assert their power. I’m scared this is just the start of it!

WADE BARRETT: Just as Liv rests up tonight, there’s still no sign of that evil witch Isla Dawn so far, which is a good thing! I hope she was fired on the spot!

Back in the arena, Alba lingers at the corner, a smirk playing on her lips, her eyes wickedly tracing Alexa’s every move as Alexa stretches her arms and legs out against the ropes. Alba ascends the steel steps, pausing to point the bat at the crowd, a silent declaration of her intent, before she steps into the ring, shakes off her robe, gets rid of her bat with it and readies herself in the corner for tonight's bout as the arena’s light system turns back to a neutral setting.

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The bell rings, signaling the start of the match. Alexa and Alba circle each other cautiously, the tension crackling in the air. They quickly engage in a classic tie-up, wrestling for control. Alexa gains the upper hand, forcing Alba into a headlock. Alba smartly wriggles free, breaking the hold entirely. She smirks at Alexa, who looks even more determined. They circle again and go for a second lock-up. Once more, Alexa takes the advantage, but as Alba slips out this time, Alexa catches her arm in a twist. Thinking quickly, Alba grabs Alexa's hair, stumbling them both back to the ropes. Despite Alba's grip, Alexa maintains her hold on Alba's arm and whips her to the opposite ropes. However, Alba reverses the momentum, releasing Alexa's hair and sending her spinning around instead. Bouncing off the ropes, Alexa charges back toward Alba, only to be met with a solid shoulder tackle that sends her crashing to the canvas. Fyre’s smirk widens as she stalks Alexa, who is catching her breath on the mat. Alba grabs her by the hair and arm, aiming to send her into a turnbuckle. But Alexa reverses, sending Alba crashing into the turnbuckle instead. Displaying her agility, Alba stabilizes herself on the second ropes, standing tall in Alexa's path. Alexa closes in quickly, delivering a massive closed right hand straight to Alba’s jaw, sending her tumbling outside the ropes and crashing to the floor.

WADE BARRETT: A Goddess Right catching Alba just at the right time!

MICHAEL COLE: A wicked act of aggression from our Five Feet of Fury!

WADE BARRETT: Looks like these women have studied each other!

Back in the ring, Alexa leans against the ropes to gain momentum, then dives between the middle and bottom ropes, aiming for a dropkick. Alba, anticipating the move, catches Alexa’s feet and dumps her back-first onto the ground. Alexa crashes down, groaning as she tries to catch her breath. Alba wastes no time, hauling her back to her feet. With a swift motion, Alba spins Alexa and slams her shoulder-first into the steel steps. She picks Alexa up again and tosses her back into the ring, following quickly under the ropes. Alba stalks Alexa, hooking an arm around her neck. She lifts Alexa as if setting up for a suplex, but instead releases her, sending Alexa crashing down front-first with a Gourdbuster! After creating some distance, Alba charges at Alexa and delivers a swift boot to the side of her face. She quickly rolls Alexa over and covers her for the pin. 1!... 2! Alexa kicks out before the three count, showing she's still in the match.

MICHAEL COLE: A quick turn around there from Alba Fyre!

WADE BARRETT: Well, this match started with a bang! We have two of the quickest women’s competitors in the ring right now. Who’ll keep the pace?

Alba maintains her momentum from the opening, she lifts Alexa and lands a series of punches that leaves her staggering. Seizing the opportunity, Alba grabs Alexa again, their arms locking around each other’s necks, and drives Alexa into the corner with a brutal snap suplex! Alba keeps her hold on Bliss as they fall, enough to roll over to lock in a chokehold submission. Alba maneuvers along the ring to avoid breaking the hold due to the referee's orders. After a while, despite the intense pressure, Alexa starts to show her resilience, managing to lift herself off the floor and deliver sharp elbows to Alba's midsection. This forces Alba to release the hold, and Alexa wastes no time in trying to gain control. She grabs Alba's arm for an Irish whip, but Alba counters, sending Bliss into the corner instead. As Alba charges in for a punch, Alexa cleverly ducks this, attempting to grapple Alba who trapped herself in the corner. However, Alba quickly responds with a quick but effective elbow to Alexa's face, knocking her back several steps. Alba now swiftly moves to intercept Alexa in the center of the ring, but Alexa, with anger in her eyes, slaps her hand on Alba’s neck hard in a sudden response. Bliss grabs Alba by the throat and, with a fierce shake of her head, throws Alba back with a vicious STO, asserting her dominance in the match!

MICHAEL COLE: Tonight might just be the night that we see Alba Fyre’s flame put out!

Alba is perfectly lined up for Alexa Bliss as she drives her five-foot frame down onto Alba’s fallen body, aiming both knees at Alba’s midsection. Alexa pivots off Alba’s stomach and prepares to execute a backward flip to complete her Insult to Injury signature move. However, Alba reacts desperately, grabbing Alexa and pinning down her arms, pulling her back into a sneaky schoolgirl pin. 1!... Alexa quickly escapes the unexpected reversal after a one-count, shuffling away as Alba gets back on her feet. As both women meet again, Alba capitalizes on her speed, hooking one of Alexa's arms and attempting to lock in one of her modified Gorybombs. Alexa, however, has other plans. She slips out of the hold by grabbing the top rope with her free hand. With swift movement, Alexa maneuvers into a front face lock on Alba, setting the stage for a sudden turn of events as she drives Alba’s head down into the mat, hitting a unique variation of a BLISS DDT!

WADE BARRETT: A beautiful counter there by Alexa Bliss!

MICHAEL COLE: Bad news for Alba Fyre! I think this one’s done!

Bliss goes for the pin... 1!… 2!... - - almost a 3 count! Frustrated but focused, Alexa climbs to the top rope, looking ready to deliver her Twisted Bliss signature move. Suddenly, the lights cut out. When they flicker back on a few seconds later, the haunted doll Lilly is standing on the top turnbuckle right in front of her, sending Bliss into a sudden shock. ”Please, no! Not now!” she pleads, her voice trembling. Alexa climbs off the turnbuckle, engaged in a frantic commotion, trying to reason with Lilly as the viewers join her confusion and upset.

WADE BARRETT: What the hell, Cole?! Lilly again?! This is starting to feel like we’re all trapped in the same nightmare with Alexa and that damned doll!

MICHAEL COLE: Turn around Alexa, this match could still be yours!

Alexa carefully lifts the doll, excusing it to the outside of the ropes. Just as she does, a cloaked figure emerges from beneath the ring, jumping onto the apron and then the canvas, diverting Alexa's attention. Alexa pauses, bewildered, questioning if this is really happening, wondering if the crowd sees what she sees. “What are you doing!? Get out of here!” she shouts, her voice laced with frustration.

MICHAEL COLE: Wait! Who’s that?!

WADE BARRETT: Surprise, surprise! It’s the White Witch, ISLA DAWN!

The figure pulls back their hood, revealing themselves to be Isla Dawn! Alexa steps toward Isla, but as she does, Isla spits a vile black mist in her direction. Alexa ducks just in time, and the mist hits the referee standing behind her instead. The referee collapses, blinded by the mist and signaling for the bell as the arena erupts into chaos.



With the bell sounding, signaling a no contest Alexa wastes no time in defending her honor, running up and smashing Isla in the face with a forearm, knocking her off the apron. Alba Fyre is quickly back on her feet though and is there just in time to rock the back of Alexa’s skull with a superkick! The kick knocks Alexa down to her side and Alba follows on top of her, rocking her skull with right fists. Isla’s back on the case now, entering the frame, circling and murmuring curses at Alexa as she rips a hold of her hair from the root, raising her up with the hold. With Alexa staggering on her feet now, Alba entraps her in her arms, back-to-back she walks with Alexa locked to her, to the center of the ring aiming for a Gorybomb. Isla stalks their prey, wrapping her arm around a hopeless Alexa’s head and the entrapment to signal their dreaded double Gorybomb is in their plan.

MICHAEL COLE: This has gone way too far now! Get someone out here!

WADE BARRETT: Someone needs to let The Unholy Union know that this isn’t the way to make friends!

The arena is electric with anticipation. Suddenly, the lights dim, and a fierce roar erupts from the speakers. “THIS IS MY BRUTALITYYYYYY!!!!” Rhea Ripley’s theme blares, and the crowd explodes as she appears at the top of the ramp, a determined look etched across her face. Tonight, she’s here for revenge against Isla Dawn, for what she did to Liv Morgan. With purpose in her stride, she storms down the ramp, eyes locked on the scene. In the ring, The Unholy Union is busy unhooking Alexa from their cruel contraption. The crowd's frenzy grows as they sense the imminent clash. Rhea slides under the bottom rope just as Isla Dawn charges at her, hoping to land a body press, but Rhea is ready. Catching Isla mid-air, she swiftly locks her head and brings her down onto her knee with a devastating Ribbreaker! The sound of impact echoes through the arena as Isla’s body contorts in pain, rolling off Rhea’s knee onto the canvas.

MICHAEL COLE: Rhea Ripley is not here to play! She’s sick of The Unholy Union’s games!

Isla writhes on the mat, struggling to regain her footing, but Alba Fyre rushes in to aid her partner in the attack with a forearm of her own. Rhea, unfazed, meets Alba with a vicious elbow that sends her reeling back. The crowd roars louder, sensing Rhea’s dominance and resilience as she’s clearly ready to take on both members of The Unholy Union on her own. But Isla isn’t done. She charges at Rhea with a forearm, yet again aiming to take her down. Rhea, with a calculated counter, catches Isla’s arm and twists it underneath her body. With an effortless display of strength, she lifts Isla into the air, whipping her in the air before crashing her down with a bone-jarring Riptide!!! The canvas shakes with the impact, and the crowd erupts into a deafening cheer.

MICHAEL COLE: Riptide!!!! Finally, Isla Dawn gets a taste of her own medicine delivered by Ripley!

WADE BARRETT: This is Rhea’s brutality and it’s about time the wicked stepsisters got to find out about it!

Rhea stands tall, her eyes blazing with intensity. Isla’s lifeless body rolls out of the ring as Rhea, still seeing red, turns her focus to Alba. Dazed but determined, Alba struggles to her feet. Without hesitation, Rhea charges at her full steam, ready to deliver a powerful shoulder block! However, Alba's instincts kick in just in time, and she sidesteps Rhea's attack. Instead, Rhea collides with a disoriented Alexa Bliss, sending her crashing to the mat. The crowd erupts into a frenzy as chaos ensues.

The brawl spirals out of control, prompting security to rush the ring in an attempt to separate the women. As the guards move in, Alba seizes the moment to lock Rhea in a chokehold from behind. The scene devolves into utter mayhem as the security team finally manages to pry the two apart, holding them in opposite corners of the ring. Meanwhile, staff members circle Alexa and Isla outside the ring, trying to restore some semblance of order. The women's division is in total chaos, with tensions running higher than ever as the girls all try to claw their way back into the fight.

Suddenly, “Welcome to the Queendom” begins to play on the speakers and all of the women turn their attention to the entryway as WWE Co-Owner Stephanie McMahon makes her way out to a mixed reaction, a stern expression on her face and a microphone in her hand. As her music dies down, Stephanie raises the microphone to her mouth and begins to speak.



STEPHANIE MCMAHON: Alright ladies, that’s enough! You’re all out here acting like a bunch of wild animals and quite frankly, I’m not impressed. Now, we didn’t get a proper conclusion to this match between Alba and Alexa because of the actions of Isla Dawn, so I think it’s only fitting that these two ladies meet again - - this Sunday at Unforgiven!

The crowd goes wild with cheers at this announcement, as Alexa smirks and nods her head and a wicked smile starts to form on Alba’s face. Stephanie nods before raising her hand up to silence the crowd and as the cheers die down, she continues on.

STEPHANIE MCMAHON: But that’s not all, oh no. See, it’s obvious to me that Rhea Ripley is looking to avenge what Isla Dawn did to Liv Morgan last night on Sunday Night Heat, so let’s make things a little more…interesting, shall we? Let’s go ahead and make this match Alba Fyre…versus Alexa Bliss…versus Rhea Ripley in a triple threat match!

Once again the crowd erupts with thunderous cheers, and a devious grin forms on the face of Rhea Ripley as she looks at Alba Fyre with a look in her eyes that shows just how ready she is to get her hands on The Unholy Union member. Alba looks at Rhea with an equally hungry look, and Alexa is looking at Alba with her own look of aggression. As the ladies all stare one another down, “Welcome to the Queendom” begins to play again as Stephanie nods at the ladies before turning and heading to the back, the fans still going wild at this announcement.

MICHAEL COLE: What an announcement from Stephanie McMahon, Wade, a triple threat match!

WADE BARRETT: There’s a lot of animosity between these ladies, Cole, and it’s all going to come to a head this Sunday!

MICHAEL COLE: It sure is! And speaking of this Sunday, make sure to tune in when we come to you live from Green Bay for Unforgiven! Thank you for joining us tonight for Monday Night RAW, we’ll see you this Sunday!