Monday Night RAW 7-1-2024

As we come back from commercial break, “Takeover” by Dale Oliver hits the speakers and the crowd begins to go crazy with boos as the Intercontinental Champion, Christian Cage, makes his way out from the back. He is not wasting his time with any posing or pomp and circumstance, as he’s clearly very upset about what happened on last week’s RAW. Christian gets to the bottom of the ramp and marches up the steel steps and enters the ring, walking over to Samantha Irvin and demanding the microphone, which she hands to him before quickly exiting the ring. As his music fades, Christian walks to the center of the ring and raises the microphone up to his mouth and begins to speak.



CHRISTIAN CAGE: Mankind, you think that I can forgive and forget? You think that I am the type of man that can just let go, that can just leave it all behind? Nope. I am not that type of man. I have been walking around here for a week with a chip on my shoulder, all because you put my son down. I am salty. I had my chance to be a proud father and have a hero for a son and you took it from me. Have you forgotten what happens when you and I step into the ring with one another? I am not that kid from decades ago, and you’re not the icon that I respected. I told you I would get back at you for always holding your nose up at me. I told you what I was going to do to you to even the score and you did not believe me, that if you cross me you will pay, you thought I was joking about it. You thought you were better than me. You thought I was the same man as before, that you could defeat my son and walk away, but you thought wrong. I have worked hard to get here. Nothing was handed to me. Nothing was merely given, I had to earn this. I have to beat everyone on RAW to become the main event man around here. No way, no how, are you going to put me down and insult me. I am not coming out here to beat you, I am not coming back here to get my win back for my son, I am coming back to finish this. I am coming back to take everything from you. I am here, Mankind, to tell you that no one wants you here.

WADE BARRETT: Now I may agree with Christian on a lot, but Mankind sticking his nose up at anybody sounds like a line of bull to me.

MICHAEL COLE: If anybody knows the man behind the mask, it doesn't matter what version you see he's extremely humble. Christian certainly providing us with some sensational revisionalist history here.

WADE BARRETT: Not to mention that I'm pretty sure the fans have been pretty keen to see Mankind beat the hell out of Nick Wayne.

Christian paces back and forth in the ring, his emotions starting to build up inside of him.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: Mankind, we have a long history. We have been around the block; we have a past that stretches back decades. But you are old, broken down and you are finished. The swan song, whatever that might be, ended nearly twenty years ago Mankind, get over it. This is not something that is going to go the way you hope, this is not what is going to be the end of your story, because here Mankind, I end the stories, I kill them and the ending has, Christian Cage, wins. That is the simple truth, Mankind - - I know that what you did, choking my boy out last week, was to gain my attention. Well, Mankind, you have my attention.

Christian walks over the ropes and faces and the entrance area.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: My son put you through hell once before and this time - - I will be keeping you there. I will be doing all I can to end you once and for all. I know hand on my heart, that I can be the man, that I can hold onto this championship, better than you ever could. I have seen you; I have seen you these last few months and I can see that you’re not the same man you once were. You’re older, you’re slower, you’re hurting. You haven’t been a champion for some time and do you know your highlights? Two of them. Facing my son in the main event and getting hit with a chair by my boy. As good as you are, it is time for a change. The people are with me, they want me to win this one and for them, I will, because we are sick of you. Mankind, the man who never quite was. Watching you reach for the stars and fail over and over. That is what gets me up in the morning. That is what pushes me forward, that is what truly motivates me, to see you fail and to see myself rise above you. Everything I have ever done to you, everything I have put you through – it all will not compare to what I am going to do to you come the time we face. You have something that is mine. You have something that belongs to me, and tonight I am going to be taking it from you. I know you will fight just that bit harder, I know you will do what you can to stop me, but make no mistake about it, you hurt my son, and I demand as a father, you come out here, so that I can make things right, an eye for an eye, or do I have to go back there, find your idiot of a son and your bitch of a daughter, and make things right with them?

MICHAEL COLE: Well that sort of language is uncalled for, and he doesn't need to bring up the man's family. They have nothing to do with what's happening between The Patriarchy and Mankind.

WADE BARRETT: I guess Christian figures since his family is in the crossfire it's only fair!

As Christian Cage stands in the center of the ring, delivering his scathing speech, the crowd's energy is palpable. Suddenly, the arena lights flicker and dim, a familiar eerie sound echoing through the venue. The audience erupts in mixed reactions as Mankind's music hits, and the deranged legend makes his way to the ring. He steps inside, grabs a microphone, and faces Christian Cage with a determined look in his eyes. After a tense moment, Mankind raises the microphone to his mouth, his voice gravelly as he speaks.

MANKIND: Christian, I heard every word you just said. You stand there with your threats and your promises of vengeance but let me remind you - - Nick already apologized. So, what does that mean for you? Does it affect you because your son couldn’t end Mankind? Are your threats a way to compensate for his failure?”

The crowd reacts with a mix of cheers and boos, the tension in the arena thick.

MANKIND: With your threats, are you ready to open Pandora’s box of violence? You see, Mankind is caring and loving, but I will not tolerate your threats in my home, the WWE. You say you will keep me in hell? I’ve lived there my entire life!

He takes a step closer to Christian, his eyes burning with intensity.

MANKIND: You talk about ending me, about taking what you think belongs to you. But Christian, I’ve seen your type before. You think you can intimidate me? You think you can scare me? I am Mankind. I thrive on pain. I survive on suffering.

The crowd roars in approval as Mankind’s words cut through the tension.

MICHAEL COLE: Mankind isn't wrong, if there's one man that can take out the pain anybody can dish out, it's Mankind!

WADE BARRETT: Christian will just have to hope he can dish out more than Mankind can handle!

MANKIND: You call me older, slower, hurting. Yes, I’ve been through hell, but I’m still here. I’m still standing. And that’s more than you can say. You see, the people are with you now, but they see themselves in me. They see the struggle, the fight, the will to survive against all odds.

He steps even closer, his face inches from Christian’s.

MANKIND: You want to take me out? You want to make things right? Go ahead, Christian. Bring everything you have. But know this: you’re not just facing a man, you’re facing Mankind. And I will adapt to the pain, I will endure the suffering, and I will come out stronger.

Mankind's voice grows more intense, the crowd hanging on every word.

MANKIND: So, Christian, make no mistake. You’ve hurt me, you’ve threatened me, but I will not back down. This is my home. This is where I belong. And if you think you can take that from me, you’re in for a rude awakening.

He raises his voice, the crowd's cheers echoing through the arena.

MANKIND: You want an eye for an eye? You want to bring your family into this? I’m ready, Christian. I’m ready to fight, to bleed, to suffer. I will prove once again why I am, and always will be, Mankind.

MICHAEL COLE: I'm certainly hoping to see Mankind give Christian a bit of what he gave Wayne in their match!

WADE BARRETT: It's a new age, Cole, Christian is clearly the better choice to continue the legacy of the Intercontinental Championship! He's going to be around for a long time, whereas Mankind we don't know how long he'll be able to stick around.

With those final words, Mankind drops the microphone and stands tall, the crowd's cheers echoing through the arena as Christian Cage looks on, seething with anger.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: My son was clearly confused, he had no idea what he was saying to you when you cornered him on Heat and pressured him to lie to your face, you can walk around here, with your head held high, thinking you are the man, but Mick, your nothing. You put your hands on my son, you beat the piss out of my son until the point he could not even breathe on his own and you think, I am going to let you walk away from this, you think that you can come into here, into my show and do whatever it is you want to do, and think what, that you will get the happy ending that you deserve, Mick. You’re old, you’re washed up, and tonight, you’re finished.

WHACK! A steel chair comes across the back of Mankind, gifted by Nick Wayne who had slipped into the ring when nobody was paying attention. Nick lifts up the chair and hits Mankind with it again, and again, and once more, three quick and harsh smashes to the back as Mankind fights through the pain and gets back up, hitting Nick with a right and then a left, backing the boy into the corner and unloading onto him as the difference maker would slide into the ring, Killswitch.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: Get him big man! Get him, stop him from hurting the boy!

Christian directs traffic from the corner as Killswitch grabs Mankind, but he gets hit in the face as the hardcore icon begins fighting back against him, hitting him with everything he has and starting to get the upper hand. Suddenly, Nick Wayne jumps onto Mankind’s back, arms around his face, pulling at the mask and blinding him as Killswitch hits a big boot right to his face! Nick Wayne turns Mankind around and drops him with the cutter, right onto the chair, before he rolls off and holds him there as Killswitch kicks him right in the side of the head as hard as he could to keep him down. The gruesome twosome then each grab an arm of the hardcore icon and pull him up to see the champion.

CHRISTIAN CAGE: You will learn, through pain, suffering, blood and tears, that there is only one legend here now Mick and it is me. I have done everything that you could only hope and dream about, and unlike you little man, I am not a dreamer, I make things happen, this title here, I won it, I earned, I fought my way to the very top and I am not going anywhere, but you Mick, you are, your career has been nothing other than a joke, you have always wanted to complete the set, make the dream come true, finish the story, win this title, for your family and supporters. Keep dreaming, Mick, keep dreaming. I am the champ and anyone who wants to challenge me, let me show you how I conduct my business.

Nick Wayne and Killswitch force Mankind to his feet and hold him in place, as Christian comes charging in, nailing him with a spear! As he knocks Mankind to the ground with the vicious move, he stands up, places his boot onto his chest and holds his title up for the world to see as the crowd showers him with boos.

MICHAEL COLE: Christian had a lot to say, but I'm not sure that he really made these fans believe him. They clearly are much more enthused about seeing what Mankind is going to do to try and take away that championship from him!

WADE BARRETT: Well, I'm excited to see them face off, but I have to say my confidence in our Patriarch has not wavered!

MICHAEL COLE: The Patriarchy have been fighting their separate battles recently, but you have to imagine it’s only a matter of time before they work together in the tag division.

WADE BARRETT: Well this fight with Mankind has kept them all focused on the goal of defeating him, but I’d certainly like to see what they could do against some competition like the superstars in our next match!

MICHAEL COLE: Breezango and the Guerrillas of Destiny might be fighting their first battle, but it should give us a good idea of what to expect in the future from them!

"Breezango" by CFO$ begins to play over the P/A system as they both strut out in their official Fashion Police uniforms with the selfie stick to capture their arrival to Monday Night RAW’s main stage and they adjust the aviators on their face as they strike fashion model-like pose for the camera.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following tag team contest is scheduled for one fall! Making their way to the ring, the team of Tyler Breeze and Fandango, Breeezaaango!

MICHAEL COLE: While these two men may seem a bit ridiculous, I can assure each and every person watching that they are both very serious competitors in the ring.

WADE BARRETT: Former WWE Tag Team Champions before what some like to call the reset. Not to mention when they went to NXT, they also managed to become NXT Tag Team Champions as well. So, these two can mix it up with the best tag teams out there, and tonight they are going to face off against one of the best tag teams that’s ever graced a ring outside of WWE.

Both men play to the crowd as they cheer loudly for them, their strut down to the ring is something to behold as they capture some of the fans in attendance by leaning against the barricade and giving a little “Blue Steel” to the camera. "G.O.D (Firing Squad)" by No Name Tim and Kashis Keyz hits as Breezango turns to face the rampway, surprised by the interruption in their journey to the ring. Both members of Breezango slide into the ring and prepare themselves for their coming opponents. Fireballs shoot up from the stage as the Guerrillas of Destiny make their way to the top of the ramp as the crowd boo very loudly for them.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And their opponents, Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa, the Guerrillas of Dessstiiiny!

MICHAEL COLE: These two ran roughshod over most of the superstars in the WWE already. There were no targets, they just took out whoever they wanted week after week!

WADE BARRETT: If you thought they were scary then, imagine them with their focus explicitly on whatever opponent gets decided for them.

The Guerrillas of Destiny each take a different route around the ring as Breezango tries to keep their focus on both members but neither man seems to be able to focus on the sudden movements by their enemies. Tama slides in on one side as Tanga slides in on the other and they converge on their opponents as the bell rings.

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Guerrillas of Destiny surprise Breezango by attacking them at the same exact moment and with a quickness that Breezango wasn’t expecting. They sent Breeze and Fandango off the ropes and hit twin Samoan drops at the same time! Fandango slides to the outside as Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa get double back elbows, and then follow it up with a flapjack by Loa into a jumping cutter by Tama on Breeze! Double suplex from the Guerrillas of Destiny. Both men wait for Breeze to get back to his feet, but Fandango pulls Breeze to the outside for some breathing room. Loa runs at Breeze and goes for a crossbody, but Breeze catches him and nails a backbreaker! Breeze tags in Fandango, and they beat the hell out of Loa in the corner with chops and finally a superkick by Breeze. Fandango gets a headlock on Loa and flips him over to the canvas as he tightens into a chokehold, wearing him down. Fandango releases, only to beat down on Loa’s chest with hard forearm shots. Fandango tags Breeze back in, and Breeze applies some more pressure with a leglock cloverleaf.

MICHAEL COLE: Breeze and Fandango have certainly been working to keep up with the Guerrillas tonight!

WADE BARRETT: If they want to stay alive, they are going to have to keep wearing them down. Tama and Tonga are brutal competitors, always smashing their way through any competitor in their way. While the Motor City Machine Guns might not understand it, that’s the reason Bischoff brought them into the game!

Loa fights his way back to a vertical base, but Breeze hits a couple forearm strikes and some hard chops, stifling Loa again. Loa ducks a clothesline and follows up with a superkick! Loa dives and tags in Tama as Breeze tags Fandango back in! Tama gets an arm drag on Fandango, then another one, then a pop-up Samoan Drop! A fireman’s carry into a flapjack sends Fandango flying! Tama springboards off the ropes with a corkscrew plancha! 1…2…Fandango kicks out! A spinning heel kick sends Fandango to the outside. As he and Breeze regroup, Tama and Loa come off the ropes and hit stereo flying corkscrew planchas over the top rope! Tama rolls Fandango back into the ring and heads to the top rope. Fandango gets back to his feet, and Tama hits a top rope splash that flattens Fandango back to the canvas! 1…2…Fandango just kicks out!

MICHAEL COLE: A vicious splash off the top rope, Fandango might have gotten to his feet, but he was still taken out by it regardless!

WADE BARRETT: Quick but not quick enough to avoid the impact, the Guerrillas are not just hard hitting but faster than you would expect!

Tama tags Loa back in, and they go for the Guerrilla Warfare, but Fandango escapes by elbowing Loa in the gut. Breeze comes up from behind Tama and hits a German Suplex! Breeze now sets up Loa and hits an Unprettier, he makes the cover, 1…2…Loa kicks out! Breeze misses a spinning heel kick that hits Fandango, and that allows Tama to pull the top rope down and send Breeze over the top rope. Loa comes up behind Fandango and tries for the Tombstone, but Fandango shifts his weight, and both men fall to their sides, knocking down the referee. Fandango stumbles his way to his feet, allowing Tama and Loa to hit Fandango with the Aided Double Arm DDT called Guerrilla Warfare that absolutely spikes Fandango to the canvas as his body stays up for a moment on the top of his head before dropping to the canvas! Loa covers Fandango, 1…2…3!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here are your winners, the GUERRILLAAAS OF DESSSTINYYY!

MICHAEL COLE: Guerrillas got the win, but what are they doing now?!

WADE BARRETT: Putting an exclamation point on it!

Tama and Tanga both strike at the same time, beating down Fandango in the center of the ring. Breeze comes back in to try and stop them, but they double clothesline him down, and then both members mount their opponents and begin to unload with vicious-looking shots to their faces. The crowd absolutely erupts when the Motor City Machine Guns begin to run down the rampway with steel chairs in hand, though! They slide into the ring, and Shelley nails a chair to the back of Tanga as Sabin takes a swing at Tama, but he rolls out to avoid the shot. Tanga gets pulled out by Tama as both members of the Guerrillas of Destiny shout threats toward the Machine Guns as they stand in the ring and smash the chairs on the canvas as they tell them to come back in if they want some!

We next head backstage to one of the Moda Center’s locker rooms. There’s a big pop from the crowd as we find KAIRI there, doing some stretches in the hallway. Her captain’s coat hangs from a peg in one of the lockers nearby, as does her feathered tricorn. Ahead of her first championship opportunity since re-signing, the captain looks cool and focused in a way not seen since her return to the ring in 2022. Just over her shoulder we see Kyona Yano dressed in a tracksuit with pink lines painted under both eyes, hearkening back to her in-ring days.

Kyona seems content to wait out her friend’s preparations even with the huge match awaiting Captain KAIRI. Finally, KAIRI works a kink out of her neck and turns to face the woman who’s been at her side for the past few weeks.

KYONA YANO: You ready for tonight?

KAIRI: You bet I am. I lost my shot at Money in the Bank. I’m not letting anyone stop me tonight.

KYONA YANO: No matter what it takes?

KAIRI: Come on, there’s gold waiting to be claimed and I’m a pirate.

She flashes that winning smile of hers, but Kyona just crosses her arms over her chest.

KYONA YANO: I’m serious.

KAIRI’s smile softens a little and she nods with the force of one of her Cutlass strikes.

KAIRI: Chances like this don’t come along very often. I don’t know how long it’ll take to get another if I don’t get the job done tonight. So, if I have to get a little crazy and creative tonight? If I have to dig deep and fight through unimaginable pain? You bet I’m going to do whatever it takes. The main event is going to see me finally break my six-year drought and lead the women's division to a brighter future!

She reaches up to grab her coat, which draws attention to the pink and white ring gear she’s chosen for the big night. Kyona chuckles as she realizes they match; yet when KAIRI gets the coat down and starts pulling her coat on Kyona’s deadly serious again. Once the coat is on, Kyona grabs her hat and twirls it in her hands.

KYONA YANO: How bad do you want that title?

KAIRI: More than anything!

KYONA YANO: Then tell me!

KAIRI: I’m going to be Intercontinental Champion!

KYONA YANO: Louder!

KAIRI: I’m going to be Intercontinental Champion!!

Kyona gives KAIRI a light shove and glares at her.

KYONA YANO: Again!

KAIRI shoves her back, her voice becoming forceful.

KAIRI: I’M GOING TO BE INTERCONTINENTAL CHAMPION!

The two glare intensely at each other before Kyona cracks up just a little and nods in approval. KAIRI just barely stifles a laugh of her own and playfully punches her friend in the shoulder.

KYONA YANO: Then go out and make it happen, Captain.

She carefully places the tricorn on KAIRI’s head like a crown. KAIRI’s expression seamlessly shifts back to its earlier grim determination.

KAIRI: Whatever it takes.

KYONA YANO: By any means necessary?

KAIRI nods coldly, clearly prepared for a war of unmatched intensity. Kyona stands to attention and fires off a salute.

KYONA YANO: Yes sir! Go out there and show the world who you are!

KAIRI returns the salute, then extends her hand to her friend. Kyona smirks at seeing the gesture and grabs her hand tightly. They share a handshake and intense gazes as the crowd pops again. With a nod from KAIRI to Kyona, the Pirate Princess marches out of the locker room to battle for untold treasure.

The cameras catch up to Shotzi Blackheart backstage. She's currently preparing for her upcoming match by stretching her arms and getting herself fired up. However, she pauses briefly to address the camera.

SHOTZI BLACKHEART: For weeks now, I've been terrorized by the Unholy Union... and why? All because I defeated one of them in my debut. Clearly, they can't let that go but that's fine. I did challenge Isla Dawn to a match last week but y'know what? I'm happy that this Battle Royal is going to happen instead. For once, I get to focus on something other than the Unholy Union and make the priority myself and capturing my first championship of this new era.

She nods enthusiastically.

SHOTZI BLACKHEART: Well, I can't overlook the fact that Alba Fyre will be part of it, so it's not an entire escape from them. But y'know what? I can't have them keep trying to ruin my life. I'm in this for myself and I intend on getting what I want. I've got my sights set on that Women's Intercontinental Championship. And Alba, you may try to get in the way but you should know, I'm a very smart woman and I can overcome any challenge. You included. And Isla? Don't worry, I haven't forgotten you either. We'll just have to face off when I'm champion instead, won't we?

Shotzi lest out a laugh before going back to her warm-up as the cameras go back to ringside.

MICHAEL COLE: Well, it certainly seems like both Shotzi and KAIRI are ready for the battle royal later tonight!

WADE BARRETT: It’s not gonna be an easy road for either of them though, Cole, not with three other women wanting the championship just as much as they both do!

MICHAEL COLE: Well that’s gonna be our main event tonight, folks, and it’s bound to be an explosive match! Up next, however, is our final qualifying match for the women’s Money in the Bank! Two former briefcase holders from the old regime are going head to head as Carmella goes up against Liv Morgan, which one will punch their ticket to this career changing ladder match?

”Fabulous” by CFO$ begins to play on the speakers and the crowd erupts into loud boos as Carmella dances her way out to the top of the ramp. Looking out at the crowd with a cocky smirk, Carmella moonwalks across the top of the ramp before striking a pose and then making her way towards the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is a Money in the Bank qualifying match! Making her way to the ring, The Staten Island Princess, Carrrmeeellaaa!

MICHAEL COLE: With her husband making an impressive return to the WWE, Carmella is looking to have an impressive return of her own here in the women’s division!

WADE BARRETT: I have a feeling we’re about to witness the rise of a new power couple, Cole! With Eric Bischoff at the helm, these two are going to be absolutely unstoppable!

Carmella gets to the bottom of the ramp and goes to the side of the ring, hopping up onto the apron in a seated position and striking another pose before suggestively rolling under the bottom rope. As she gracefully gets to her feet, she smirks again at the booing crowd as she takes off her fur jacket and drops it over the top rope to the ringside attendant and turns her attention back to the entrance area. As her music dies out, “Liv Gone Mad” by def rebel begins to play and the crowd cheers as Liv Morgan makes her way out to the top of the ramp. Looking out at the crowd with a big smile, she gives a playful little wave to the fans as she begins to make her way down to the ring.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And her opponent, Liiiv Morrrgaaan!

MICHAEL COLE: Liv Morgan has had a mixed bag of success since joining the new era of WWE and tonight she looks to finally get some steady positive momentum with a chance to qualify for Money in the Bank!

WADE BARRETT: Liv might be determined, but Carmella is absolutely ruthless! I think Liv is going to have her work cut out for her tonight!

Liv gets to the bottom of the ramp and smirks at Carmella who is waiting for her in the ring. Going over to the steel steps, she goes up to the apron and enters the ring, going over to the far side ropes to hit her signature pose but before she can, Carmella reaches out and grabs her by the hair, slamming her down to the mat! The crowd boos as the arena lights immediately come back on and Liv’s music abruptly stops, and Carmella looks down at Liv who is holding her head in pain.

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The referee admonishes Carmella for her actions, but nevertheless the bell rings and this one is officially underway. Carmella decides to make the most of the advantage she’s given herself with her underhanded tactics and mounts Liv, delivering right hand shots to the face. The referee warns her about her actions, so she gets to her feet and puts her hands up defensively as she backs away from the downed Morgan. Once the referee moves out of her way, however, Carmella goes back over to Liv Morgan and jumps up into the air, coming down on her with a jumping elbow drop to the chest!

MICHAEL COLE: Carmella is dominating in the early goings here!

WADE BARRETT: Are you surprised, Cole? I told you she was going to dominate!

Carmella stands up and with another smirk she moonwalks across the ring as the crowd pelts her with boos. Carmella just waves them off dismissively and she runs towards Liv, jumping up into the air again and this time coming down with a jumping leg drop across Liv’s neck and upper chest! Clearly feeling confident, Carmella goes for the pin, 1…2…Liv reverses the pin attempt and gets Carmella’s shoulders to the mat! 1…2…kick out by Carmella!

MICHAEL COLE: Liv Morgan almost got one over on Carmella!

WADE BARRETT: Liv is gonna regret that, I don’t think Carmella is going to take too kindly to Liv trying to make a fool out of her!

Both women are quick to their feet and Carmella comes charging in at Liv, but Liv takes Carmella down with a clothesline! Carmella quickly gets up and whirls around to face Liv but Liv takes her down with another clothesline! The crowd is getting fired up as they rally behind Liv, and as Carmella gets to her feet again, Liv lets out a determined scream as she goes in for another clothesline but this time Carmella ducks the attempt and quickly turns around, nailing Liv in the face with the superkick that she’s dubbed the Princess Kick! Liv falls to the mat in a heap and Carmella cockily places a foot on her in the most mocking, disrespectful manner she can think of to pin her opponent and begins fanning herself as the referee counts, 1…2…3! Carmella is victorious!



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

MICHAEL COLE: Despite her best efforts, Liv Morgan was no match for Carmella tonight, as The Staten Island Princess made short work of her!

WADE BARRETT: Of course she did, Cole! I’ve already said it but I’ll say it again until I’m blue in the face, Carmella is going to be an absolute dominant force in the women’s division!

”Fabulous” begins playing on the speakers again as Carmella takes her foot off of Liv Morgan and demands the referee raise her hand in the air. He does so, and the crowd continues to shower her with boos. Carmella simply rolls her eyes and pulls her hand away from the referee, waving off the fans once again as she makes her way to the ropes. As she exits the ring, her husband, Corey Graves, makes his way down the ramp and greets Carmella with an embrace as she jumps off the apron to the arena floor. The couple then share a passionate kiss, which elicits more boos from the Portland, Oregon crowd. Breaking apart, the couple laugh at the booing fans before making their way up the ramp hand in hand. When they get to the top, they both turn around to look down towards the ring at Liv Morgan, who is coming to and realizing that she has lost the match as she lets out a frustrated wail. With another mocking laugh, Carmella blows a kiss before waving tauntingly at Liv and then turning and heading to the back with her husband.

MICHAEL COLE: Well folks, earlier tonight, we watched as the WWE Champion set his sights on a new opponent and threw out a challenge for Money in the Bank to a relative main roster newcomer, Bron Breakker.

WADE BARRETT: Bron has looked impressive a couple of times, certainly. But you notice Diesel didn’t issue his challenge until after Breakker lost his qualifying match? I think Diesel smells blood in the water and is looking to eliminate some competition. Bron’s not done anything to deserve that match, he’s only getting it because of who his family is!

BRON BREAKKER: I heard that, Wade.

Wade Barrett startles in his seat, and the camera pulls back to show the screen, where Bron Breakker’s face looks out onto the crowd. The crowd cheers as he lets out a chuckle, and the wide shot arena shifts to the shot that was appearing on the screen: Bron, looking directly into the camera from one of the WWE’s ubiquitous steel chairs.



BRON BREAKKER: Don’t worry, Wade, I’m not going to get you. I’ve got bigger fish to fry. Because you’re right, Austin Theory did beat me. He didn’t even need a screwy referee to do it, which is new for his bunch. But that’s a score I’m going to settle later. If you spend all your time looking where you’ve been, you’re never going to see where you’re going, right?

Bron lets out a breath before continuing.

BRON BREAKKER: I never dreamed that, after a month on the roster, I’d be in a position to be the WWE Champion. Maybe Wade’s not wrong. Maybe I haven’t earned this shot. But I’m going to go out there and show him, the powers that be, and the entire WWE Universe exactly why Bron Breakker deserves to be in the world title picture! And Diesel…

Bron wets his lips, his gaze growing intense as he focuses on the camera, like he’s looking Cool Daddy directly in his eye.

BRON BREAKKER: I appreciate this opportunity, but I’m afraid you made a mistake, giving it to me. You might have beaten Swerve to get that belt, but we’re entirely different beasts. Swerve can fly, but me? I’m a wolfdog, and if you let up for one single second, I’ll go for your throat. I accept the challenge, Diesel, but let me tell you right now: there’s a difference between watching me, and facing me. And like I said, I’ve got something to prove. I hope you’re ready, ‘cause I sure as hell am.

The shot lingers on Bron as it slowly fades back to the announce table.

MICHAEL COLE: Some intense words from the challenger. I don’t think he’s too happy with you, Wade!

WADE BARRETT: I’m not worried, Cole - -

Just outside of the camera shot, a metal chair clangs as it falls over from where it lay, startling Barrett and sending him back. His chair collides with Cole’s, and he clutches his chest, breathing heavily.

MICHAEL COLE: You were saying?

WADE BARRETT: Shut up, Cole.

MICHAEL COLE: Bron Breakker and Diesel for the WWE Championship at our Money in the Bank event! It’s going to be hard-hitting to say the least when those two are in the ring across from each other!

WADE BARRETT: And Breakker looks like he’s going to beat anybody in his path on the way!

MICHAEL COLE: He almost took you out, that's for sure!

"Six Barrel Shotgun" by Black Rebel Motorcycle Club hits the P/A system of the Moda Center as Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin of the Motor City Machine Guns make their way out to the top of the stage. Sabin gives a finger gun to the camera as he winks at the same time and Shelley smirks as he opens the vest he's wearing to reveal his physique before spreading his arms out to the side and shoots a finger gun from each hand into the air. Sabin and Shelley dap each other up, before Sabin pat him on the back and sends him off to the ring as he exits to the backstage area.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is scheduled for one fall, and it is a Money in the Bank qualifying match! Making his way to the ring, he is one-half of the Motor City Machine Guns; Allleeex Shelleeey!

MICHAEL COLE: The Motor City Machine Guns have been having a tough time the past couple of weeks. Going from Guerrillas of Destiny to Solo Sikoa, seems like a bit of a rough place to be for Shelley!

WADE BARRETT: He certainly seemed to upset the island natives. Hopefully he’s been preparing well enough to stand a chance in this one. He and Sabin are competitors in their own right, but Sikoa isn’t going to be an easy battle even for somebody who is more of a veteran in the ring!

”Le Manu” by Shepherds Reign hits the sound system, and Solo Sikoa slowly saunters his way out to the top of the ramp as Paul Heyman follows behind him with an evil smirk on his face. Heyman speaks with his client as Sikoa nods before the two begin to make their way down to the ring. Sikoa is staring daggers through Shelley as he makes his way down, his gaze never breaking with his opponent as he rounds the ring to climb up the ring stairs. He slaps his hands down on the ring steps and screams before he points at Shelley and motions with a cut motion across his throat before he ascends the steps and enters the ring through the ropes.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And his opponent, The Street Champion; Solo Sikoooaaa!

MICHAEL COLE: With a man like Paul Heyman in his corner, you have to imagine that Solo has already put his battle plan into motion. Intimidation followed by pure unbridled violence until he gets his way!

WADE BARRETT: I’m not even sure how you battle plan for Solo Sikoa. He is exactly what he’s been called, a force of nature when it comes to the destruction, he can leave in a WWE ring!

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The bell rings, and both men immediately start to hammer each other with punches! Neither man wants to give up, as this Money in the Bank spot is on the line and the full-on brawl has begun between Sikoa and Shelley. Alex looks like he might win the initial fight until Solo starts hitting him with some body blows that start to stagger Shelley. Sikoa goes in for the kill early as he grabs him by the throat and rears back as he screams SAMOAN SPIKE but Shelley kicks him in the gut to stop the momentum before he nails a Snap DDT that puts Solo down. Shelley now runs and springboards off the ropes with a moonsault before lifting the leg; 1...2...Sikoa kicks out with authority!

MICHAEL COLE: Both of these men are wasting no time trying to get this one out of the way!

WADE BARRETT: Shelley has no option but much the intensity of Sikoa to try and defeat him. If he doesn’t pull out all the stops, he doesn’t stand a chance at taking this one home!

Shelley pulls Sikoa back to have his shoulders pinned once again; 1...Sikoa kicks out with authority once again! Shelley grabs Sikoa up and throws him to the ropes, but Sikoa reverses, pops Shelley up, and nails him with a Samoan Drop! Shelley grabs his back as he gets to his feet, and Sikoa rushes forward and wipes him out with a clothesline over the top rope! Sikoa takes a moment before he runs the ropes and hits a diving tackle through the ropes on Shelley!

MICHAEL COLE: AIR SIKOA! Not somebody you want to see flying your way!

WADE BARRETT: He’s a big man but he’s still quick enough to fly with the best of them!

Sikoa is pulling out all the stops to earn that opportunity tonight! Solo grabs hold of Shelley as he looks to roll him back into the ring, but Shelley counters and slams his ribs into the ring apron! Solo falls to the ring floor in pain as Shelley gets a smirk on his face, stepping onto the apron as he dives off, crushing Sikoa with a senton off the ring apron! Once again, Solo is in pain on the floor, clutching his ribs, which prompts Shelley to roll into the ring and break the count.

MICHAEL COLE: Shelley is really trying to get some serious hurt on Sikoa in the early goings to try and even the playing field!

WADE BARRETT: You have to imagine it’s going to take a lot to be able to cripple Sikoa and achieve that goal though!

Shelley looks to carry on the assault as he rolls back out and grabs Solo and whips him into the barricade ribs first! Sikoa leans on the barricade as Shelley rushes in and CRUSHES HIM! Shelley has taken control of the match as he grabs hold of Sikoa rolling him back into the ring, looking to try to end this already. Shelley slowly stalks his prey ready to go for his Shellshock! He moves in and grabs Sikoa but Solo headbutts him before he rushes him back first into the turnbuckle corner to stun Shelley!

MICHAEL COLE: Oohh! That can’t feel good!

WADE BARRETT: Sikoa’s got that warrior spirit, he’s not going to allow Shelley to take this one that easily!

Shelley stumbles away from Sikoa and coughs slightly due to the impact. He looks to go back on the attack, but Sikoa rocks him with some jabs that rock Shelley's jaw! Sikoa is now hitting some hard body shots, which Shelley struggles to defend against, and just as it looks like he might land his own shot, he's hit with a Belly-to-Belly Suplex! Sikoa now follows it up with a superkick dropping Shelley before he drags him to the corner and makes his way across the ring, taunting the fans as they boo him! Sikoa now rushes in and nails a corner hip attack that rocks Shelley's head back and forth like a ping pong ball between two paddles! Sikoa rips him out of the corner by a foot before he makes the cover; 1...2...Shelley gets the shoulder up!

MICHAEL COLE: That hip attack is so deadly! Absolutely crushing Shelley’s head against the turnbuckle!

WADE BARRETT: Shelley refuses to stay down though! Sikoa might have to permanently stomp him out to win this opportunity!

Sikoa grabs hold of Shelley after the kickout and locks him in a bow and arrow hold on the mat! He wrenches back on Shelley, who struggles in the hold but manages to fight back with elbows to the ribs. Shelley hammers a few more elbows into Sikoa, forcing him to break off of the hold as he rolls across the ring! Sikoa and Shelley get to their feet, and a forearm strike staggers Shelley before he's nailed with a sitout spinebuster from Sikoa! Sikoa makes the cover; 1...2...Shelley kicks out! Sikoa sighs, knowing that he's got more damage he needs to do before this is done. Sikoa superkicks Shelley as he sits up and then nails a SENTON on top of Shelley! He makes the cover, 1...but Shelley gets the shoulder up this time! Sikoa grabs hold on Shelley and launches him with a BIEL THROW THAT LAUNCHES SHELLEY OVER THE ROPES AND OUT OF THE RING!

MICHAEL COLE: A massive show of strength with that toss to Shelley!

WADE BARRETT: Shelley is going to be lucky if he can walk tomorrow, but Sikoa looks like he’s not in the best shape either!

Sikoa now hussles his way across the ring as he bounces off the ring ropes on the opposite side before returning to hit a diving splash over the top rope and onto Shelley as they crash to the floor! Both men struggle to get up; Shelley crawls away to try and find something to help him get back on his feet. Sikoa, however, manages to grab the barricade and pull himself back up to his feet. Shelly finally finds a spot on the barricade to pull himself up, and as he turns, he is absolutely crushed with a SPEAR BY SIKOA THROUGH THE BARRICADE! Both men are crushed under pieces of the barricade, and neither is moving. The referee wants to give leniency, but the count has to begin: 1…2….3! The right hand of Sikoa reaches up for a moment but drops down to the floor again. 4….5….6! Sikoa’s grunts can be heard as he tosses a piece of barricade off of himself and breathes heavily. 7…8! Shelley now presses himself up and knocks another piece of the barricade that was on himself off, both men now crawling towards the ring. 9! Sikoa throws an elbow at the side of Shelley’s head as he tries to get to his feet, but Shelley grabs him around the ankle, and he falls over again, just short of the ring! 10!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Due to a double count out this match has ended in a DRAW!

MICHAEL COLE: What does this mean? Who is going to move on to Money in the Bank?

WADE BARRETT: I don’t know, Cole, but I’m sure that we’ll get some clarification - -

Suddenly, “King of Kings” by Motörhead begins to play and the crowd begins to boo as one of the Co-Owners of the WWE, Triple H, makes his way out to the top of the ramp. A hand is held up in the air as he begins to speak as he makes his way out a bit exasperated by the whole situation.

TRIPLE H: Hold on! Hold on! I’m going to stop everything right here, because it’s obvious that we need a solution to the problem we have. Solo Sikoa and Alex Shelley, both of you absolutely battled for this opportunity to advance to the Money in the Bank match. I’ve seen plenty of wars happen in my time with the WWE, and I’ve also participated in many of them. That’s why I’ve decided that both of you will be advancing to Money in the Bank, and I wish you the best of luck when it comes to acquiring that briefcase!

MICHAEL COLE: Wow! What a bombshell announcement from Triple H!

WADE BARRETT: Sikoa and Shelley both moving on to the men's Money in the Bank, making it a nine man match! The rest of these men better watch out, because if they perform like they did tonight, it’s only going to get even more brutal with the addition of weaponry!

The crowd goes wild with this announcement as Triple H heads to the back. Both men are separated from each other outside of the ring by security, their tempers still flaring high as they try to get through the security forces holding them back.

As the camera goes to the backstage area, we see Co-Owner Stephanie McMahon sitting at her desk, typing away at her computer. As she notices the camera, she turns to face it and folds her hands together in front of her as she begins to speak.



STEPHANIE MCMAHON: As we get closer and closer to Money in the Bank, things have been heating up on our shows every week. The chaos of competition and people wanting their opportunities is bringing these superstars to a level of impatience that drives them to do things that normally wouldn't fly around here. It calls for my husband and I to make some hard choices. Which is why I decided that the situation between The Patriarchy and Mankind needs a resolution.

Stephanie pauses for a moment, allowing the WWE Universe to let her words sink in before she continues on.

STEPHANIE MCMAHON: Next week, on July 8th, Christian will be putting his WWE Intercontinental Championship on the line against Mankind. These two men clearly aren't going to stop until one of them puts the other down, and a sanctioned match feels like the only responsible way of doing that. So, Christian, I hope you're ready to prove yourself as the superior athlete, because as my husband can tell you from firsthand experience, you'll be having anything but a nice day when you're in the ring against Mankind next week. So good luck, give it all you have, and may the best man win.

With that, Stephanie gives a nod to the camera before turning back to her laptop, immediately resuming the work she had been doing previously, as the cameras go back to ringside.

MICHAEL COLE: The announcements just keep rolling in from our Co-Owners! Next week Christian Cage is going to defend his title against Mankind!

WADE BARRETT: I have a feeling that one might be a bloodbath, Cole!

MICHAEL COLE: It very well might be, Wade! Well folks,now it’s time for the main event! For the past few weeks, the women’s division has been laser-focused on the Money in the Bank qualifying matches, to determine just who will have a shot at winning the golden ticket that has made many a superstar’s career. And while some women have fallen just short of the goal - -

WADE BARRETT: They’ve got a second chance at glory here tonight in the first-ever Women’s Intercontinental Championship Battle Royal.

MICHAEL COLE: It’ll be a battle indeed, Wade, to decide whether or not Becky Lynch is going to continue being royalty here in the WWE, or if she’ll be out of Stephanie McMahon’s hair once and for all.

The lights take on an eerie, almost blood-red hue, and ”The Depths” by def rebel begins to play through the speakers and Alba Fyre emerges. She makes her way to the top of the ramp as the crowd boos her, and she doesn’t seem to care the least little bit. She smirks a cocky smirk and takes off down the ramp.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: The following contest is a five-woman battle royal, and it is for the Women’s Intercontinental Championship! Making her way to the ring, The Hardcore Daredevil, Alllbaaa Fyyyre!

MICHAEL COLE: Isla Dawn might have qualified for the Women’s Money in the Bank, but I don’t think Alba Fyre’s content with her partner being the only one with a shot at glory.

WADE BARRETT: And why should she be? The Unholy Union might be a bit spooky, but you can’t deny that they’ve been a dominant force in the women’s division.

Alba hops down from the ropes where she was taunting the crowd and starts to unbutton her jacket. The lights lose their ichorous hue, and attention goes back to the stage as “Teenage Nosferatu Pussy” by Rob Zombie starts to play. The crowd’s boos only grow louder as Jamie Hayter steps out. She exchanges words with the audience members at the top of the ramp, before her gaze focuses on Alba.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Her first opponent: she is the Most Powerful Woman in Wrestling…Jaaamiiie Haaayterrr!

MICHAEL COLE: Speaking of women who have been making a mark on the division, Jamie Hayter is certainly one to watch in this match!

WADE BARRETT: Well you know what they say, Cole, Hayter hits harder. And I think there’s some unlucky women that are about to find that out the hard way!

Hayter climbs the ring steps and stands just on the apron, exchanging words with Alba Fyre. The two snap at each other, but the ref manages to draw Fyre back so that Hayter can climb into the ring. And it’s time for the next entrance, as “The Last Voyage” by Kuritaka begins and the crowd’s mood changes sharply. They cheer and sing along as KAIRI appears from backstage, a parasol resting on her shoulder. She looks serious for a moment, and the crowd looks confused until she lets out a smile.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Next up making her way to the ring, the Pirate Princess…Captain KAIIIRIII!

WADE BARRETT: It’s about time KAIRI took herself a little more seriously and got rid of that pirate get-up!

MICHAEL COLE: Even if she’s not dressed like a Captain, the crowd is certainly behind her tonight. She may be a bit of an underdog here tonight, but I wouldn’t count her out!

KAIRI passes off the parasol and her jacket and climbs into the ring, where she stands across from her two opponents, who still bicker with each other. She seems content to wait for the next opponent as her music goes down. There’s a brief silence and then the sound of…a motor?! It’s quickly drowned out by the sound of “Ball Pit” by def rebel, and suddenly Shotzi appears in the seat of her tank! She drives to the top of the ramp, laughing and pointing at the three women already in the ring, who are pointing back and talking to the official, as if asking “is that legal?!”



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And now, making her way to the ring, the Ballsy Badass…Shoootziii Blaaackhearrrt!

WADE BARRETT: Now this is totally unfair, she can’t have a tank! Someone call the police, I don’t think that thing’s even street legal!

MICHAEL COLE: I’m not sure I want to be the cop who has to stop someone who’s driving a tank, even if it is only hip-height!

Shotzi puts her tank in park and hops out as the crowd continues to cheer. She high-fives the crowd as she walks down the ramp. She still wears an almost maniacal grin as she climbs the stairs and slides through the ring. Finally, the spotlights leave the ring and focus on the top of the ramp. “Celtic Invasion” by CFO$ roars through the speakers, and the crowd goes wild as Becky Lynch emerges from backstage with the Intercontinental Championship around her waist. She smiles and waves to the crowd before focusing on the women in the ring, and her face suddenly turns more serious.



SAMANTHA IRVIN: And finally, the Women’s Intercontinental Champion, the Man, Beckyyy Lyyynch!

MICHAEL COLE: Normally I’d never be one to count Becky Lynch out, but the odds are stacked against her.

WADE BARRETT: She might be The Man, Cole, but Stephanie McMahon is the boss, and I don’t have any sympathy for her. What did she expect after being so disrespectful? If anything, I’d say Stephanie is taking it easy on her!

Becky walks down the ramp in long, determined steps, unhooking the belt as she walks. She climbs the rope and stands on the apron, facing off with her four opponents, before raising the belt up high and letting the crowd cheer and chant. After a moment she climbs through the ropes and passes the belt off to the official, who holds it up for the arena to see before passing it off to someone at ringside.

---

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The bell rings and immediately, Jamie Hayter runs right at Becky Lynch, nailing her with stiff right hand shots to the face! Becky tries to cover up and protect herself, but Hayter is absolutely relentless. With an evil cackle, Alba Fyre gleefully runs up to join Hayter in the assault on Lynch. Both of them are clubbing Becky with stiff shots as the crowd goes insane with boos. Meanwhile, Shotzi and KAIRI stand there stunned, unsure of what to do. They both have tremendous respect for Becky but they also don’t want to interfere and hurt their own chances of staying in this match. As they finish their assault on the champion, Alba and Jamie both grab one of Becky’s arms and throw her over the top rope! However, Becky lands on the apron and hangs onto the top rope, refusing to give up! Incensed by this, Jamie Hayter hauls off and clocks Becky in the face with another right hand shot, and at the same time, Alba Fyre delivers a low dropkick to Becky’s knee, knocking her off the apron and onto the floor!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Becky Lynch has been eliminated!

MICHAEL COLE: Oh my God, I can’t believe it! Jamie Hayter and Alba Fyre double teamed the champion in a heinous assault and Becky Lynch was the first one eliminated, almost immediately as the match started!

WADE BARRETT: Well you know what this means, Cole, we’re guaranteed to have a new Women’s Intercontinental Champion now!

A stunned silence falls over the crowd, as they were absolutely not expecting Becky to be eliminated, especially first, and especially this early on. Becky gets to her feet and puts her hands on her hips as she bites her bottom lip, clearly upset at what has just transpired. In the ring, Jamie Hayter and Alba Fyre laugh and mockingly wave at her as the referees on the outside of the ring tell Becky she needs to head to the back. Nodding her head at the officials, Becky turns and heads up the ramp to the back as the crowd cheers her for her efforts. Meanwhile, Jamie and Alba turn their attention back to their opponents in the ring, and all four remaining ladies begin staring daggers at one another. And then almost instantly, it’s on! Alba and Shotzi simultaneously go after one another and Jamie Hayter charges at KAIRI!

MICHAEL COLE: Here we go, Wade, things are about to get crazy!

WADE BARRETT: We’re going to see an all out war!

As Alba and Shotzi trade shots back and forth, Jamie Hayter decks KAIRI with a right hand shot similar to what she did to Becky Lynch. KAIRI staggers back, holding her jaw, before she narrows her eyes and lets out a loud yell, rushing towards Hayter and taking her down with a Lou Thesz Press! The crowd roars in approval as KAIRI nails Hayter with forearm shots to the face before picking her up and whipping her into the ropes. Hayter counters, however, and instead whips KAIRI into the ropes and when KAIRI comes back, she once again brings Hayter to the canvas with a headscissor takeover!

MICHAEL COLE: KAIRI is using her speed to her advantage!

WADE BARRETT: It’s a smart move, because that’s the only way you can combat someone like Jamie Hayter!

Jamie gets to her feet and is a bit wobbly, and KAIRI uses this opportunity to rush up and leap up onto Hayter’s shoulders, looking for a hurricanrana. However, Jamie hangs on to KAIRI’s legs as she tries to flip back to execute the move, and instead lifts the Pirate Princess back up before driving her down to the mat with a devastating powerbomb! Jamie bends down and picks KAIRI up, roughly bringing her to her feet. Bringing KAIRI over to the ropes, Jamie attempts to toss the Pirate Princess out of the ring, but KAIRI plants her feet firmly into the canvas, grips the ropes tightly, and delivers an elbow to the midsection of Jamie Hayter! The Hayteful one lets go of KAIRI and staggers back, clutching at her midsection. Gritting her teeth in anger, Jamie runs towards KAIRI ready to strike, but KAIRI ducks and holds the ropes open, sending Jamie out to the apron! Her left leg dangles dangerously close to the floor, but she’s able to lift herself up into a standing position on the apron, narrowly avoiding elimination!

MICHAEL COLE: A close call for Jamie Hayter!

WADE BARRETT: She better hurry up and get back in the ring if she wants a chance at winning this thing!

Jamie seems to be keenly aware of this, and hurriedly gets into the ring but KAIRI once again rushes in and leaps up onto Jamie’s shoulders looking to nail a hurricanrana for a second time! Jamie again holds onto KAIRI’s legs with her great strength, and she turns around to powerbomb KAIRI outside of the ring! However, this time around KAIRI is able to flip back, and with the support of the ropes for leverage, she’s able to send Jamie up and over the top rope, tumbling down to the floor!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Jamie Hayter has been eliminated!

MICHAEL COLE: Well it looks like Hayter’s luck ran out, but if I know her, she’ll be back to fight another day!

WADE BARRETT: I have a feeling KAIRI has just made her way onto Jamie’s hit list, she may want to watch her back after this!

Jamie gets to her feet and begins screaming angrily at KAIRI who just waves goodbye to her and gives her a pirate’s salute with a playful laugh as Jamie is told to head to the back by the referees at ringside. Meanwhile, Shotzi Blackheart is laying shots into Alba Fyre, weeks of frustration with the Unholy Union coming to a head! Shotzi jumps up and nails Fyre in the head with a step up enziguri that stuns The Hardcore Daredevil, and Shotzi then hits the ropes ready to nail a headscissor takeover but when she comes back, it’s not Alba Fyre standing there, but instead a mysterious Jester who somehow snuck into the ring! Shotzi’s eyes go wide as The Jester catches her and tilt-a-whirls her body into position for a Tombstone Piledriver! Alba Fyre is now at the side of The Jester, holding onto Shotzi’s legs to keep her in place. With a wicked laugh, Alba nods to The Jester and the pair drive Shotzi down into the mat with the devastating move! Alba laughs again as The Jester slides under the bottom rope, leaving the ring as mysteriously as he arrived as the crowd boos the actions.

MICHAEL COLE: Who the hell was that?!

WADE BARRETT: I have no idea, Cole, but just when I think Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn can’t get any creepier, they find new ways to prove me wrong!

KAIRI was watching all of this go down, and understandably now looks a little apprehensive about sharing a ring with Alba Fyre. Alba slowly turns her head to look at KAIRI, a devilish smile creeping across her face. The Hardcore Daredevil approaches The Pirate Princess who backs into the corner despite herself, and as Alba gets closer to KAIRI, she lifts up her left hand and brings it to KAIRI’s hair, which she gives a soft, slow stroke. Alba continues to smile at KAIRI, who looks at her with a confused expression, and then Fyre begins to laugh maniacally before slapping KAIRI across the face! The crowd “oohs” at the sound of the slap, and Alba doesn’t waste any time, nailing KAIRI in the face with a forearm shot, and then another, and then another! Alba then delivers a stomp to KAIRI’s midsection and then another, and another, and another until KAIRI is in a seated position! Alba walks over to the opposite corner before turning her attention back to KAIRI and she comes running in, looking to nail The Pirate Princess with a running hip attack but KAIRI moves out of the way at the last second and Alba crashes into the turnbuckles!

MICHAEL COLE: Great ring awareness by KAIRI!

WADE BARRETT: That’s gonna leave a mark on Alba, for sure! I wonder if there are any spells to get rid of bruises?

Alba is grimacing in pain after crashing into the corner, and as she stumbles out of it, she walks right into a Japanese arm drag from KAIRI that sends her hard into the canvas, clutching at her lower back even more! As Alba struggles to get to her feet, she uses the ropes to help herself get upright. Once she’s up, she turns to see KAIRI charging in with a wicked clothesline that sends Alba over the top rope! Alba is able to hang on, though, and gets herself upright once again on the apron, looking at KAIRI and laughing at her as she yells “NICE TRY, WEE ONE!” But suddenly, seemingly out of nowhere, Shotzi Blackheart, who has recovered from the Tombstone Piledriver, rushes in and nails Alba with a dropkick that sends her crashing down to the floor!

SAMANTHA IRVIN: Ladies and gentlemen, Alba Fyre has been eliminated!

MICHAEL COLE: Alba Fyre is out of here!

WADE BARRETT: I don’t think this is going to do much to solve Shotzi’s issues with the Unholy Union, Cole!

Alba looks at Shotzi with wide, incredulous eyes, clearly not expecting her to have recovered from that Tombstone Piledriver. Shotzi looks at Alba with a proud smile, giving her a wave as the ringside referees direct her to the ramp to head to the back. Shotzi turns and looks at KAIRI, and the two women give each other a small smile and a nod as they quickly shake hands to show respect to one another.

MICHAEL COLE: We’re down to two, Wade, which one of these ladies will walk out of here as the new Women’s Intercontinental Champion?

WADE BARRETT: Your guess is as good as mine, Cole, but they should consider leaving the handshaking for after the match!

Both women circle the ring, unsure of what to do first. They quickly lock up, and Shotzi gets the better of the exchange, slapping a headlock onto KAIRI and wrenching it on tight. KAIRI is able to shove Shotzi off of her though, sending the Ballsy Badass into the ropes. When Shotzi returns, she knocks KAIRI down with a shoulder block, hits the opposite side of the ropes and when she comes back she jumps up into the air, coming down with her leg across KAIRI’s neck and throat with a jumping leg drop! Shotzi gets to her feet and she bends down to pick KAIRI up and brings her over to the ropes, looking to toss her over, but just as she did with Jamie Hayter, KAIRI plants her feet into the canvas and drives her elbow into Shotzi’s midsection, sending her stumbling back. Wasting no time, KAIRI leaps to her feet and grabs Shotzi by the hair, running to the ropes and tossing Shotzi over the top, but Shotzi lands on the apron!

MICHAEL COLE: Another close call here, I’m on the edge of my seat!

WADE BARRETT: The suspense is killing me!

KAIRI can’t believe it, as she thought she would be able to easily get Shotzi to the floor quite easily. She comes charging in, looking to knock Shotzi off, but Shotzi nails her with a shot to the face and then grabs her by the head and pulls her in closer, before reaching over and lifting KAIRI up into the air with a suplex! KAIRI is able to wiggle out of it though, and instead of going to the floor, lands on the apron right next to Shotzi! The two women are very aware of their precarious position, and Shotzi nails KAIRI with a forearm shot to the face that sends her stumbling back. Still hanging onto the top rope, KAIRI comes back and delivers a forearm shot of her own to the face of Shotzi! Shotzi stumbles back as well and then comes back and delivers another forearm shot to KAIRI’s face, and then another, and another! Just as she lands a fourth forearm shot, KAIRI kicks Shotzi in the right knee, causing it to buckle and The Ballsy Badass loses her balance and falls off the apron to the floor! KAIRI has won the match, and the gold!



SAMANTHA IRVIN: Here is your winner, and the NEEEWWW Women’s Intercontinental Champion, The Pirate Princess, KAIIIRIII!

MICHAEL COLE: KAIRI has done it! She’s the new Women’s intercontinental Champion!

WADE BARRETT: This was a hell of a match here tonight, Cole, and it could have gone any way, but KAIRI overcame all the odds and now she has the title to show for it!

As “The Last Voyage” begins to play on the speakers again, KAIRI stumbles into the ring, her face flooded with emotion as the referee hands her the Women’s Intercontinental Championship and raises her hand in the air. The crowd is on their feet for the new champion, who now uses both hands to raise her championship high into the air. Pyro goes off from the stage to celebrate the new champion, and tears of joy stream down KAIRI’s face as she lowers the belt and begins to put it around her waist. Outside the ring, Shotzi gives KAIRI a smile and a nod as she then goes and makes her way up the ramp. As she goes, she passes Kyona Yano who is making her way down to the ring, an excited look on her face. She bounds up the steel steps and enters the ring, rushing over to KAIRI and pulling her in for a hug. Confetti begins to fall throughout the arena, as the crowd continues to cheer the celebration of the new champion.


MICHAEL COLE: What a moment this is! KAIRI has finally stepped out of the shadows she felt were cast upon her and she stands before us as the new Women’s Intercontinental Champion! I have a feeling that the future looks very bright for this young lady, but also for the women’s division as a whole, as these women absolutely brought the house down tonight! That’s all the time we have for tonight, though, folks. Join us next week LIVE from Las Vegas on our final stop before Money in the Bank, when Christian Cage defends his Intercontinental Championship against Mankind! Thanks for tuning in to Monday Night RAW, I’m Michael Cole alongside Wade Barrett, until next time! Goodnight, everybody!