WWE Battleground Preview

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

WWE returns this Sunday night with the next Smackdown Live pay per view event! WWE brings us the fifth edition of WWE Battleground, live at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Smackdown Live's main championships will be on the line as the WWE superstars do battle inside the squared circle. We'll also be treated to a Flag Match and the return of the Punjabi Prison Match! All that and a heck of alot more!!

- "WWE World Heavyweight Championship, Punjabi Prison Match": Jinder Mahal (c) vs. Randy Orton: Last month at WWE Money In The Bank, Mahal defeated Randy Orton for the second pay per view in a row to retain the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Randy Orton demanded another match with Jinder Mahal and stated that winning the world title meant nothing to Orton now, instead this rematch was for Orton's revenge for Mahal touching Orton's dad Bob Orton at WWE Money In The Bank. Shane McMahon understood how Orton felt and immediately announced that Orton would receive another world title match at WWE Battleground, but also allowed Jinder Mahal to pick the stipulation. Mahal chose a match that his idol The Great Khali made famous, The Punjabi Prison Match. Can Randy Orton survive the Punjabi Prison, get redemption for his family and win back the WWE World Heavyweight Championship? Will Jinder Mahal use the Punjabi Prison to his advantage in taking down The Viper yet again?

- "WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship Match": The Usos (c) vs. The New Day: Last month at WWE Money In The Bank, The New Day defeated The Usos by countout, however, The Usos retained their titles. The New Day would go on to mock The Usos for the way they backed out of their title fight and taking the countout on purpose. The Usos went on to defeat The Hype Bros. in a match that could've given the bros. a title shot. Since no #1 Contender was yet to be determined, The New Day arrived and immediately asked for a rematch at WWE Battleground, which The Usos accepted. The New Day and The Usos battled it out in a tune up Rap Battle with Wale as the celebrity host, getting the fans hyped for this tag team title match at WWE Battleground. Can The New Day defeat The Usos and prove that The New Day still Rocks? Will The Usos defeat The New Day or find another loop hole to leave still the champions?

- "WWE United States Championship Match": AJ Styles (c) vs. Kevin Owens: Kevin Owens began issuing Open Challenges to anyone for a shot at his WWE United States Championship. AJ Styles immediately answered the challenge, however, Owens turned Styles down because Owens was only looking for someone that was from the city they were touring in. AJ Styles went to Daniel Bryan and told Bryan that Kevin Owens had no clue what an open challenge meant, considering Owens continued to turn down Styles. Styles then went on to win an Independence Day Battle Royal to become #1 Contender to the WWE United States Championship. Styles would go on to defeat Owens at a live house show at Madison Square Garden and become the new WWE United States Champion, making Owens now the #1 Contender at WWE Battleground. Can AJ Styles defeat Kevin Owens and retain his newly won WWE United States Championship. Will Kevin Owens get back what Styles took from him and leave the champion?

- "Flag Match": John Cena vs. Rusev: John Cena returned to Smackdown Live on July 4th and announced he would be appearing on both RAW and Smackdown Live whenever needed. Rusev interrupted John Cena's return and complained about not getting as much exposure for his Smackdown Live return like Cena did. Rusev then went on a tirade about how much he hates America and why we're the lowest of the low out of all the other countries. Cena would go on to challenge Rusev to a Flag Match at WWE Battleground to determine which country was the toughest, America or Rusev's home country of Bulgaria. Rusev accepted the challenge and then attacked Cena from behind one week before the event to send one last message to Cena. Can Cena defend old glory and win the match? Will Rusev defend his home country of Bulgaria and stomp on America? 

- "#1 Contenders Fatal Five Way Elimination Match": Charlotte vs. Becky Lynch vs. Nattie Neidhart vs. Tamina vs. Lana: WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Naomi is to thank for this match getting signed, after going to Shane McMahon and asking who her next #1 Contender would be. Charlotte, Becky Lynch, Nattie Neidhart, Tamina and Lana all interrupted and stated their cases on why they should face Naomi next. Shane McMahon took them all under consideration and then announced that they would figure it out themselves in a Fatal Four Way Elimination Match with the winner going to WWE SummerSlam to face Naomi. Which Smackdown Live lady will come out victorious and punch her ticket to SummerSlam?

- Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Baron Corbin: Baron Corbin began his feud with Shinsuke Nakamura last month at WWE Money In The Bank when he attacked Nakamura from behind during Nakamura's entrance. Corbin went on to win the Money In The Bank briefcase in the process as well. The following week Nakamura stated that he'd love to face Corbin one on one because he knows that Corbin is scared. Corbin went on to attack and beat down Nakamura after those comments and said he wasn't afraid of Nakamura. Corbin and Nakamura faced each other on Smackdown Live, however, the match was ruled a no contest after both men brawled all over the arena. Daniel Bryan went on to announce that both men would face each other again at WWE Battleground. Can Nakamura defeat the self proclaimed lone wolf? Will Corbin defeat the Japanese Rockstar and possibly cash in his Money In The Bank briefcase as well against the WWE World Heavyweight Champion?

- Mike Kanellis vs. Sami Zayn: Last month at WWE Money In The Bank, Mike and Maria Kanellis made their WWE debut. During their promo on Smackdown Live, Sami Zayn accidentally interrupted them, which upset Maria. Maria demanded an apology from Zayn for his intrusion and Zayn stated he apologized twice and wasn't apologizing again. Maria ended up slapping Zayn and then Mike busted a vase over Zayn's head. One week before WWE Battleground, Mike Kanellis defeated Zayn in a one on one match. Zayn would get another shot at Kanellis at WWE Battleground in a rematch. 

- Tye Dillinger vs. Aiden English: Two months at WWE Backlash, Tye Dillinger defeated Aiden English on the Pre-Show. Five days before WWE Battleground it was announced that Dillinger and English would go one on one again on the WWE Battleground Pre-Show.

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 5/10/17: Smackdown Live London Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

London Calling!!!!! No it's not The Clash song, it's day 2 of the WWE's live shows in London, England this week. Smackdown Live returned to jolly ol' England and featured it's current top stars on the roster!

** Smackdown Live Card **
- Becky Lynch battled Nattie Neidhart.
- Former Wyatt Family members Erick Rowan and Luke Harper went one on one.
- Fandango and Tyler Breeze battled The Ascension.
- WWE World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton, AJ Styles and Sami Zayn battled Jinder Mahal, Kevin Owens and Baron Corbin in a Six Man Tag Team Match.

- Rusev sends a warning to Shane McMahon.

** Promos By: WWE World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton and Dolph Ziggler. 

** Smackdown Live **

- Randy Orton Promo: Orton blames Jinder Mahal for costing him the House of Horrors Match. Mahal immediately interrupts, says he'll beat Orton for his title and take it home to India where a statue will be built in Mahal's honor. Mahal states that The Age of The Maharaja will begin at WWE Backlash. Kevin Owens interrupts next, mocks Mahal, claims to have ended Chris Jericho's career and is again the Face of America. Owens promises that AJ Styles is next and then he's coming for Orton. AJ Styles interrupts next, reminds us this is the house that he built and he respects what Owens can do, but Owens and Jericho both are no AJ Styles. Baron Corbin interrupts next and starts talking trash, but suddenly gets jumped from behind by Sami Zayn. Orton goes after Mahal, but The Singh Brothers pull Mahal to safety. The heels all retreat as Orton, Styles and Zayn stand in the ring.

- Becky Lynch vs. Nattie Neidhart: The match closes out with Becky hitting a dropkick and a Bexploder for a near fall. Tamina goes for the distraction on Becky, but Naomi makes the save and drops Tamina. Charlotte pulls Naomi off of Tamina and Nattie capitalizes with the pinfall distraction on Becky.
Winner: Nattie Neidhart, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Charlotte and Naomi are arguing. Becky separates them as Naomi threatens Charlotte and Charlotte mocks Naomi. Becky says they'll never beat the Welcoming Committee faction if they're not on the same page.

- The Fashion Files return with Fandango and Tyler Breeze dressed as a London policeman and Sherlock Holmes. Breezango mock The Usos in the segment and hype their future WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship Match.

- Luke Harper vs. Erick Rowan: The match closes out with Rowan getting a near fall side slam on Harper. Rowan grabs his sheep mask and looks at it before attempting to use it as a weapon. The referee grabs it allowing Rowan to stick his thumb in Harper's eyes while the referee was distracted. Rowan hits a spinning power slam and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Erick Rowan, by pinfall.

- Dolph Ziggler Promo: Ziggler calls the fans hypocrites and no one appreciates him. The fans chant for Shinsuke Nakamura which angers Ziggler because Nakamura hasn't even had a match yet on Smackdown Live but he gets chants. Ziggler calls out Nakamura and out comes Nakamura to cheers. Ziggler tries to talk down to Nakamura, but Nakamura cuts Ziggler off. Nakamura says he'll show Ziggler what he can do tonight as a referee arrives to the ring. Ziggler refuses and says he'll face Nakamura at WWE Backlash. Ziggler then cheap shots Nakamura and beats him down. Nakamura fires back and sends Ziggler out to the floor.

- Backstage, Sami Zayn hypes his match tonight teamed with AJ Styles and Randy Orton. Styles and Orton walk off unable to handle his excitement.

- The Ascension vs. Breezango: The match closes out with Breeze unloading on Viktor and then connects with the Supermodel Kick. Viktor unloads on Breeze, but Fandango makes the save with the tag. Fandango hits the Last Dance on Viktor and scores the pinfall. After the match, The Usos appear on the stage and taunt Breezango.
Winners: Breezango, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Mojo Rawley is giving a tour to some kids and shows off his Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal Trophy.

- A Twitter video Rusev made earlier in the day is shown. Rusev says he's coming to Smackdown Live next week and demanding Shane McMahon to answer his demands of a WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match at WWE Money In The Bank or else he's going back to Bulgaria.

- Randy Orton, AJ Styles and Sami Zayn vs. Jinder Mahal, Baron Corbin and Kevin Owens: The match closes out with Orton hitting the power slam on Mahal. Corbin tries to make the save but takes a power slam from Orton. Orton with the draping DDT on Owens and goes for the RKO on Mahal. The Singh Brothers jump on the apron and distract Orton. Zayn hits the Blue Thunder Bomb on Mahal. Corbin with a backbreaker on Zayn and Styles hits the Pele Kick on Corbin. Orton hits the RKO on Owens, but Mahal hits the Cobra Clutch Slam on Orton and scores the pinfall.
Winners: Jinder Mahal, Kevin Owens and Baron Corbin, by pinfall.

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 4/26/17: Smackdown Live Des Moines Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Remember the old WWE slogan...."Where Anything Can Happen"? Well that is exactly what's going on over on Smackdown Live. The current #1 Contender to the WWE World Heavyweight Championship is Jinder Mahal.....let that sink in a minute.....Jinder Mahal! The same Jinder Mahal that was jobbing with Heath Slater and Drew McIntyre in 3MB a few years back. What would this week's Smackdown Live have in store for us live in Des Moines, Iowa.

** This Weeks Card **
- AJ Styles battled Baron Corbin. 
- American Alpha battled The Shining Stars in a Beat The Clock Challenge Match to determine a new #1 Contender to the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship.
- WWE World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton battled Erick Rowan in a non title No DQ Match.
- Breezango battled The Ascension in a Beat The Clock Challenge Match to determine a new #1 Contender to the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship.
- WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Naomi defended her title against Charlotte.

- Promos By: Shinsuke Nakamura, WWE World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton and a video promo from Rusev.

** Smackdown Live **

- Shinsuke Nakamura Promo: Before Nakamura can talk Dolph Ziggler interrupts and heads to the ring. Ziggler says most of us don't know Japanese so he'll translate for us. Ziggler says that Nakamura looks up to Ziggler, thinks his dance moves are stupid and is feeling really intimidated right now being close to his idol, Dolph Ziggler. Ziggler says Nakamura's real name is Michael and he grew up poor in Indiana. Ziggler continues the story making Nakamura out to be Michael Jackson. Nakamura grabs the microphone, asks Ziggler if he has a problem and then mocks Ziggler in Japanese. Ziggler lands a cheap shot on Nakamura and then goes for the super kick. Nakamura counters it and goes for the Kinshasa, but Ziggler escapes out of the ring.

- AJ Styles vs. Baron Corbin: Kevin Owens is at the commentary table for this match. The match closes out with Corbin dropping Styles and then sending him into the corner. Styles plants a boot on a charging Corbin. Styles goes for a springboard, but Owens talks trash to Styles. Styles has to back off and land on his feet when he attempted the Phenomenal Forearm due to the distraction. Corbin goes for a power bomb, but Styles counters and scores a roll up pinfall. After the match, Owens helps Corbin double team Styles. Sami Zayn hits the ring and sends Corbin into the ring post. Zayn drops Owens and then hits the Helluva Kick on Corbin. Owens attacks Zayn from behind and then plants Styles with the Pop Up Power Bomb. Owens stands tall with his WWE United States Championship in hand.
Winner: AJ Styles, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Charlotte says she dominated RAW and needed a new place to dominate. Tonight she'll show Naomi that she's the greatest of all time when she takes her WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship.

- "Beat The Clock Challenge Match": American Alpha vs. The Colons: The match closes out with Primo planting Gable with a power slam and hits a leg drop for a near fall. Primo lands a cheap shot on Jordan and Primo and Epico go for a double team Back Stabber on Gable. Jordan makes the save and he and Gable hit Grand Amplitude on Primo to score the pinfall. The time to beat is 5:17.
Winners: American Alpha, by pinfall.

- Rusev Video Promo: Rusev says he hates that he was drafted to Smackdown Live and the only way he'll come work for Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan is if he gets a WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match at WWE Money In The Bank in June.

- Backstage, Tamina Snuka, Nattie Neidhart, Carmella and James Ellsworth try to intimidate Becky Lynch to join their new stable.

- "No DQ Match": Randy Orton vs. Erick Rowan: The match closes out with Orton hitting the draping DDT on Rowan. Rowan counters the RKO, plants Orton then tosses him out of the ring. Rowan grabs the steel steps and smacks Orton in the side of the face with them. Rowan tosses Orton back into the ring and then grabs a steel chair. Rowan wedges the chair in the corner and sends Orton towards it. Orton counters, tosses Rowan head first into the chair and then hits the RKO to score the pinfall.
Winner: Randy Orton, by pinfall.

- Randy Orton Promo: Orton still has no clue what a House of Horrors Match is, but Bray Wyatt will be sent to his eternal hell by Orton at WWE Payback. Jinder Mahal interrupts and feels disrespected that Orton is thinking about Bray Wyatt and not Jinder Mahal being his next challenger. Mahal says he has more wealth, talent, class and culture and feels disrespected by Orton for looking different. Mahal says he will win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, take the title home to Punjabi and be given respect. Mahal tries to attack Orton, but Orton counters the attack and goes for the draping DDT. The Singh Brothers hit the ring and grab Orton. Mahal plants Orton with the Cobra Clutch Slam and leaves Orton laid out. Mahal and the Singh Brothers leave in possession of Orton's WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

- Backstage, Jinder Mahal and The Singh Brothers drive away in an SUV, Mahal still has the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

- "Beat The Clock Challenge Match": The Ascension vs. Breezango: The match closes out with Fandango unloading on Viktor, but gets distracted by Konnor and then hit with a knee by Viktor for a near fall. Breezango regain control of the match after being double teamed and score the pinfall in 2:36 to win the Beat The Clock Challenge and become #1 Contenders.
Winners: Breezango, by pinfall, to become the new #1 Contenders.

- Backstage, Naomi respects Charlotte, but hates her trash talking. Naomi says she'll prove why she's the champion and make Charlotte feel the glow.

- "WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship Match": Naomi (c) vs. Charlotte: The match closes out with Naomi landing a kick on Charlotte for a near fall. Naomi hits the Rear View on Charlotte and gets another near fall. Charlotte catches Naomi in mid air and hits a sit down power bomb for a near fall. Charlotte attempts a moonsault off the top rope, but Naomi blocks it with her knees. Carmella, Tamina Snuka and Nattie Neidhart suddenly hit the ring and attack Charlotte, causing a DQ. After the match, Naomi and Charlotte both get beat down by the trio of girls and are left laid out to end the show.
Winner: Charlotte, by DQ.

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon: Smackdown Live Louisville Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Smackdown Live was live in Louisville, Kentucky this week, one week removed from the Superstar Shakeup. A new #1 Contender was decided for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship and the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship. Kevin Owens began his Face of America Open Challenge. All that and a lot more action.

** This Weeks Card **
- #1 Contenders Six Pack Challenge Match for a shot at the WWE World Heavyweight Championship took place between Luke Harper, Erick Rowan, Jinder Mahal, Dolph Ziggler, Sami Zayn and Mojo Rawley.
- WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Naomi battled Charlotte in a non title match. If Charlotte wins she becomes the new #1 Contender.
- American Alpha battled Primo & Epico.
- WWE United States Champion Kevin Owens battled Gary Gandy in a non title Face of America Open Challenge Match.
- AJ Styles battled Baron Corbin.

- Promos By: Charlotte, Jinder Mahal and WWE United States Champion Kevin Owens.

** Smackdown Live **

- Charlotte Promo: Charlotte says that she's lost her patience already and demands to know why Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan have yet to give her a WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship Match. Naomi's music hits and out comes the champion. Naomi says she hates to see Charlotte beg so she's going to give her what she wants right now. Naomi lays the title down, decks Charlotte then spear tackles her to the mat. Charlotte is able to escape to the floor as Shane McMahon arrives. Shane announces a match between Charlotte and Naomi tonight and if Charlotte wins she'll become the #1 Contender. Charlotte gets back in the ring, attacks Naomi and sends Naomi to the floor. Naomi returns to the ring and dumps Charlotte to the floor before grabbing her title and taunting Charlotte.

- Backstage, Nattie Neidhart tells Shane McMahon that she's not happy that Charlotte is getting special treatment and wants her title shot. Carmella and James Ellsworth interrupt and Carmella says that she should be the face of the Women's Division. Tamina Snuka interrupts next and demands her title shot. Nattie finally walks off and says that she has a plan of her own. 

- "Six Pack Challenge, #1 Contenders Match": Dolph Ziggler vs. Erick Rowan vs. Luke Harper vs. Mojo Rawley vs. Jinder Mahal vs. Sami Zayn: The match closes out with Ziggler hitting a drop kick on Harper, but Harper comes back with a near fall sit down power bomb on Ziggler. Mahal sends Harper into the steel steps and then Zayn sends Mahal into the ring post. Zayn suicide dives onto Harper. Rowan goes after Zayn, but gets dropped by Mojo. Zayn hits a springboard moonsault on Mojo and then brawls with Mahal. Zayn hits the Exploder suplex on Mahal and goes for the Helluva Kick. The Bollywood Boyz from NXT suddenly appear and grab Zayn's leg. Mahal takes advantage of the distraction and scores the pinfall on Zayn.
Winner: Jinder Mahal, to become the new #1 Contender to the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

- Jinder Mahal Promo: Mahal rips the fans and wonder if they boo him because he's not American, or because he's rich, or because he's highly educated and speaks two languages. Mahal says us Americans will have no choice but to accept Mahal as the next WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Randy Orton interrupts Mahal and says that maybe he should congratulate Mahal. Mahal just won the jackpot, but the WWE World Heavyweight Championship won't be his prize, his prize will be an RKO. Orton turns his attention to Bray Wyatt and says that if the House of Horrors Match is anything like the last house, Orton will just burn it down. Bray Wyatt appears on the TitanTron and promises Orton that he'll walk into the House of Horrors, but he's not walking out. 

- Backstage, AJ Styles is asked his opinion on who he would rather face for the WWE United States Championship. Baron Corbin interrupts and argues with Styles setting up a match later.

- Backstage, Tamina Snuka, Nattie Neidhart, Carmella and James Ellsworth try to intimidate Charlotte as she heads to the ring.

- Charlotte vs. Naomi: The match closes out with Naomi landing a kick on Charlotte to her head. Naomi goes to the top rope and hits a cross body on Charlotte for a near fall. Charlotte counters a slam and then counters a kick before nailing Naomi with a strike. Charlotte counters the Rear View and nails Naomi with Natural Selection and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Charlotte, by pinfall, to become the new #1 Contender to the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship.

- Backstage, Charlotte walks past Nattie Neidhart, Carmella, Tamina Snuka and James Ellsworth, stares them all down and continues walking past.

- Primo & Epico vs. American Alpha: The match closes out with Gable unloading on Epico, tags in Jordan and Jordan takes his turn unloading on Epico. Jordan gets a near fall suplex as Primo stops the pinfall. Gable tosses Primo onto the apron. The referee gets distracted allowing Primo and Epico to land a cheap shot on Jordan and scoring the pinfall.
Winners: Primo & Epico, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Tye Dillinger shows us a video on why he's The Perfect Ten.

- "Face of America Open Challenge Match": Kevin Owens vs. Gary Gandy: Owens makes quick work and finishes Gandy off in a minute with the Pop Up Power Bomb for the pinfall.
Winner: Kevin Owens, by pinfall.

- Kevin Owens Promo: Owens insults Americans and says he will continue to be the face of America as long as he is carrying the WWE United States Championship. Owens says that Chris Jericho will not take the title away from him and then speaks in French giving AJ Styles and Baron Corbin advice for their main event next.

- AJ Styles vs. Baron Corbin: Kevin Owens sits in on commentary for this match. The match closes out with Styles locking in the Calf Crusher submission on Corbin, but Corbin makes the ropes for the break. Corbin hits the Deep Six on Styles for a near fall. The fight goes to the floor where Styles hits a forearm and a knee on Corbin. Styles goes for the Styles Clash on Corbin, but Corbin counters and shoves Styles into Owens. Styles hits a forearm on Corbin and dumps him over the barricade. Styles gets back in the ring as Corbin gets counted out.
Winner: AJ Styles, by countout.

Wrestling Lockup With Brandon 4/12/17: Smackdown Live Boston Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Day two of Draft Day is upon us ladies and gents! What an exciting first night of the "Superstar Shakup" WWE Draft gave us on Monday night! Smackdown Live may have lost some superstars to RAW, but now it's Smackdown Live's turn to strengthen their roster. What superstars will be gained for Smackdown Live tonight as we were live in Boston, Massachusetts.

** This Weeks Card **
- WWE World Heavyweight Champion Randy Orton battled Erick Rowan in a non title match.
- The Usos defended the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship against American Alpha.
- Mojo Rawley battled Jinder Mahal.
- Tye Dillinger battled Aiden English.
- AJ Styles battled Sami Zayn and Baron Corbin in a Triple Threat Match to determine a #1 Contender for the WWE United States Championship.

- Promos By: WWE United States Champion Kevin Owens, Smackdown Live Commissioner Shane McMahon and Dolph Ziggler.

- Day Two of the "Superstar Shakeup" WWE Draft took place.

** Smackdown Live **

- After RAW ended on Monday night, it was announced that RAW announcer Byron Saxton had been drafted to Smackdown Live and Smackdown Live announcer David Otunga had been drafted to RAW.

- Kevin Owens Promo: RAW's WWE United States Champion Kevin Owens arrives to announce that the Kevin Owens Show is now on Smackdown Live and the show is now a huge upgrade with Owens here. Owens mocks the USA fans, the Boston Bruins and says he could beat up anyone here. Baron Corbin is out for the interruption, says he knows Owens can beat everyone up...but...he can't beat up Corbin. Corbin demands a WWE United States Championship Match because he feels he's owed one after beating WWE Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose last week and then Ambrose ran to RAW.

RAW's Sami Zayn interrupts and announces that he's now on Smackdown Live, which angers Owens because he can't get away from his arch enemy. AJ Styles interrupts next and says that he's still here, he's still the reason Smackdown Live is #1 and he's still the face that runs the place. Daniel Bryan interrupts next and loves the tension in the ring right now. Bryan announces Styles vs. Corbin vs. Zayn tonight with the winner becoming #1 Contender to the WWE United States Championship.

- Randy Orton vs. Erick Rowan: The match closes out with Orton delivering the draping DDT to Rowan and then sets up for an RKO. The Wyatt Family graphic suddenly flashes on the TitanTron, the lights go out and Bray Wyatt taunts Orton on the screen. Bray says their paths will cross again at WWE Payback in the House of Horrors Match. The lights pop back on and Orton gets drilled with the steel steps by Rowan causing a DQ. After the match, Rowan leaves Orton laid out in the ring.
Winner: Randy Orton, by DQ.

- "WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship Match": The Usos (c) vs. American Alpha: The match closes out with Gable hitting a bulldog and Jordan getting the near fall. The Usos toss Jordan and Gable outside, The Usos attempt suicide dives, but both get suplexed on the floor. Back in the ring, Gable eats an Uso Kick, but comes back and dumps Jey on the apron. Gable rolls up Jimmy, but missed Jey tagging in. The Usos double team Gable and end up hitting the top rope Uso Splash for the pinfall and the title retain. After the match, RAW's Shining Stars, now apart of Smackdown Live, attack American Alpha from behind and leave Jordan and Gable laid out.
Winners: The Usos, by pinfall, to retain the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship.

- Jinder Mahal vs. Mojo Rawley: RAW's Jinder Mahal arrives as a newly drafted superstar of Smackdown Live. Rob Gronkowski was in the crowd again cheering on Mojo. The match closes out with Mahal getting in Gronk's face again and talking trash. Mojo comes to Gronk's aid and decks Mahal. Gronk tosses his drink in Mahal's face and then Mojo tosses Mahal back into the ring. Mojo hits his finisher on Mahal and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Mojo Rawley, by pinfall.

- Shane McMahon Promo: Shane gives the Women's Division props and says he's here to introduce the newest members. Shane then calls out Naomi, Nattie Neidhart, Carmella and Becky Lynch to be present during the announcement. James Ellsworth is with Carmella, says Naomi is a horrible champion and everyone wants to see Carmella. Naomi tells Carmella to control her side chick before he gets chin checked. Shane first introduces a returning Tamina Snuka to the roster. Tamina appears and shakes Shane's hand. Shane then announces RAW's Charlotte as a new Smackdown Live superstar.

- It's announced that Sin Cara and Rusev have been drafted to Smackdown Live.

- Aiden English vs. Tye Dillinger: The match closes out with Dillinger hitting the Tye Breaker and scoring the pinfall.
Winner: Tye Dillinger, by pinfall.

- It's announced that Lana has been drafted to Smackdown Live.

- Dolph Ziggler Promo: Ziggler talks about the Superstar Shakeup, how he's not going anywhere and is still the best on Smackdown Live. Shinsuke Nakamura interrupts and heads to the ring. Ziggler says he doesn't know Nakamura, but wants to know who he thinks he is interrupting Ziggler. Nakamura asks Ziggler if he'd like to know who he is. Nakamura counters a Ziggler super kick attempt and drops Ziggler. Ziggler rolls to the floor and escapes Nakamura.

- It's announced that The New Day have been drafted to Smackdown Live.

- "Triple Threat, #1 Contenders Match": AJ Styles vs. Sami Zayn vs. Baron Corbin: The match closes out with Corbin getting a near fall Deep Six on Zayn. Corbin misses a charge on Styles and hits the ring post. Styles lands a kick and then gets a near fall 450 springboard on Corbin. All three men brawl until Styles hits a Pele Kick on Zayn. Zayn counters the Styles Clash and dumps Styles onto the apron. Zayn hits the Helluva Kick on Corbin sending Corbin to the floor. Styles hits the Phenomenal Forearm on Zayn and scores the pinfall.
Winner: AJ Styles, by pinfall, to become the new #1 Contender to the WWE United States Championship.

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon 3/8/17: Smackdown Live Indianapolis Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE, brings you the Smackdown Live Recap for the week.

This week Smackdown Live was live in Indianapolis, Indiana. Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan discuss the current WWE World Heavyweight Championship #1 Contender controversy. John Cena and Nikki Bella teamed up to battle James Ellsworth and Carmella in a Mixed Tag Team Match. WWE Intercontinental Champion Dean Ambrose continues with his issues with Curt Hawkins and Baron Corbin. WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Alexa Bliss holds a Blissertation Celebration. Alexa Bliss and Mickie James battled Nattie Neidhart and Becky Lynch in Women's Division tag team action. Randy Orton battled AJ Styles in a #1 Contenders Match with the winner facing Bray Wyatt at Wrestlemania 33 for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

** Smackdown Live **

- Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan Promo: The show kicks off with Shane and Bryan discussing the #1 Contender for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Bryan feels Randy Orton should get it because it's tradition that the Royal Rumble winner gets the title shot. Shane feels AJ Styles should get it because Orton revoked his title shot and Styles won it last week. Both Shane and Bryan agree that tonight's match between AJ Styles and Randy Orton will be a must see.

- Backstage, AJ Styles confronts Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan. Styles says he's making the best of a bad situation. He's not afraid of Randy Orton, Shane or Bryan.

- "Mixed Tag Team Match": John Cena and Nikki Bella vs. James Ellsworth and Carmella: The Miz and Maryse sit at commentary for this match. The match closes out with Carmella stopping Cena from doing the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but gets dropped by Nikki. Cena and Nikki both do Five Knuckle Shuffles on Ellsworth and Carmella. Cena hits an AA on Ellsworth as Nikki hits Rack Attack 2.0 on Carmella. Cena locks Ellsworth in the STF submission as Nikki locks Carmella in the Fearless STF submission. Both Ellsworth and Carmella tap out to end the match. After the match, The Miz and Maryse jump Cena and Nikki and leave them laid out.
Winners: John Cena and Nikki Bella, by submission.

- The Miz and Maryse Promo: Miz says he can't take it anymore, Cena and Nikki are true disrespect to true love, Cena and Nikki's relationship is a lie, Miz spends every minute with Maryse and loves her, but Cena would consider love only if you signed a contract. Miz calls the Cena/Bella relationship as fake as them and it must end now. Maryse calls Nikki a bitch and tells her to wake up at what's going on.

- Backstage, Randy Orton says if he was capable to burn down Bray Wyatt's Compound last week, just imagine what he'll do to AJ Styles tonight. Orton says if he was Styles he'd run.

- Curt Hawkins Promo: Hawkins says that Dean Ambrose started something he can't finish last week and then calls out Ambrose. Ambrose hits the ring, drops Hawkins quickly and then demands Baron Corbin to come out. Corbin appears on the TitanTron and doesn't understand why Ambrose is in such a hurry to take a beating. Corbin says he's taking everything away from Ambrose, including his WWE Intercontinental Championship. Ambrose plants Hawkins with Dirty Deeds and decides to go backstage and look for Corbin.

- Backstage, Mojo Rawley says he's entering the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal at Wrestlemania 33. Dolph Ziggler interrupts and says you have to earn Wrestlemania moments. Mojo asks if that's why Ziggler don't have a Wrestlemania moment. Ziggler tells Mojo not to hurt himself trying to grab the brass ring.

- Backstage, Dean Ambrose is still looking for Baron Corbin. Corbin suddenly attacks Ambrose from behind with a lead pipe. Corbin beats Ambrose down and then pins Ambrose underneath the forks of a forklift. Corbin leaves as WWE Medical assist Ambrose.

- Alexa Bliss's Blissertation Celebration: Alexa Bliss and Mickie James are in the ring for the celebration. Alexa is here to announce her Wrestlemania 33 opponent, but it won't be Naomi, Nikki Bella, Carmella or Becky Lynch. Alexa mocks Becky until Becky arrives and tells Alexa to shut her face. Becky says she'll be the one to beat Alexa and take her title. Nattie Neidhart interrupts next, says Becky isn't in her league and that Nattie and Alexa came to an understanding last week. Alexa denies offering Nattie a title shot and calls Nattie the worst there is, was and ever will be. Mickie tells everyone to shut up because they are ruining Alexa's special moment when she announces Mickie as her opponent for Wrestlemania 33. Alexa denies that and then they all argue over who should be the #1 Contender. Daniel Bryan interrupts and announces that Alexa Bliss will defend the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship against.....every single woman in the locker room that's available. Alexa pleads that it isn't fair. Bryan says it is, sends a shout out to Teddy Long and makes a tag team match for right now.

- Alexa Bliss and Mickie James vs. Nattie Neidhart and Becky Lynch: The match closes out with Becky and Mickie trading punches. Nattie gets involved and hits a german suplex on her own partner Becky. Nattie stares down on Becky and then leaves her alone. Alexa tags in and scores the easy pinfall on Becky. After the match, Mickie hits the Mick Kick on Alexa, knocking her out. Mickie lays the title across Alexa's unconscious body.
Winners: Alexa Bliss and Mickie James, by pinfall.

- Backstage, it's announced that Dean Ambrose was taken to a near by hospital with trouble breathing and bruised ribs.

- "#1 Contenders Match": Randy Orton vs. AJ Styles: The match closes out with Orton countering the Styles Clash and sending Styles to the apron. Styles counters the hanging DDT and traps Orton in the Calf Crusher submission. Orton reaches the ropes and breaks the submission. Orton dodges a Styles charge, but Styles lands a kick on Orton. Orton counters a Styles springboard, by knocking Styles off the ropes and then hitting Styles with the hanging DDT. Styles counters an RKO with a Pele Kick to Orton. Styles goes for the Phenomenal Forearm, but Orton counters with an attempted mid air RKO. Styles counters the mid air RKO and tries to regain offense. Orton hits the RKO outta nowhere on Styles and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Randy Orton, by pinfall, to become the #1 Contender.