Smackdown Live was live this week in Las Vegas, Nevada. This week the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship, WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship and WWE United States Championship were all on the line. The man himself, Vince McMahon was scheduled to appear also to address the Kevin Owens/Shane McMahon incident from last week.
** Smackdown Live Card **
- WWE United States Champion AJ Styles defended his title against Tye Dillinger. - WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champions The Usos defended their titles against The New Day in a Las Vegas Street Fight Match. - WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Nattie Neidhart defended her title against Naomi. - Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable battled Zack Ryder and Mojo Rawley.
- The WWE CEO Vince McMahon appeared this week to address the Kevin Owens/Shane McMahon incident that happened last week.
** Smackdown Live **
- Kevin Owens Promo: Owens says he's suing everyone in the WWE, every McMahon and every board member until Smackdown Live is officially his. Owens says that he will then fire Sami Zayn and cancel the Fashion Files forever. Owens calls out Vince McMahon to talk, but Shane McMahon's music hits instead. Shane comes dancing out, but it's not Shane, it's Dolph Ziggler pretending to be Shane McMahon. Owens laughs and thanks Ziggler for entertaining everyone. Smackdown Live GM Daniel Bryan interrupts next and reminds Owens that he still runs the show. Owens promises to make Bryan the janitor when Owens takes over Smackdown Live. Bryan informs Owens that Vince McMahon is on his way to the arena and Owens won't like what Vince has to say. Owens states that Vince won't like what Owens has to say either to end the segment.
- "WWE United States Championship Match": AJ Styles (c) vs. Tye Dillinger: The match closes out with Styles attempting the Phenomenal Forearm, but Baron Corbin arrives and distracts Styles. Styles nails Corbin with the forearm instead. Dillinger takes advantage of the distraction and gets a near fall on Styles. Styles counters the Tye Breaker and Dillinger counters the Styles Clash. Dillinger hits the Tye Breaker on a second attempt and gets a near fall on Styles. Styles traps Dillinger in the Calf Crusher submission and forces Dillinger to tap out to retain the title. Winner: AJ Styles, by submission, to retain the WWE United States Championship.
- After the match, Styles and Dillinger shake hands. Baron Corbin suddenly pulls Styles outside and tosses him over the barricade. Dillinger tries to make the save, but gets laid out by Corbin. Corbin hits End of Days on Styles and then promises to be Styles' opponent for the U.S. Open Challenge next week.
- Backstage, Rusev says losing to Randy Orton at WWE SummerSlam in quick time was humiliating. He went home to Bulgaria, but his family shamed him. Rusev says that he's not a loser and lost his killer instinct. Rusev knows that he now has to break a legend to get his killer instinct back.
- Jinder Mahal Promo: Jinder Mahal gives props to Shinsuke Nakamura and then begins to mock him, showing pictures of Nakamura. Mahal advises Nakamura to just not show up for their match at WWE Hell In A Cell. Mahal then speaks to his family and friends in Punjabi before raising the WWE World Title and leaving.
- Backstage, Kevin Owens interrupts Sami Zayn and tells him about how Owens is about to own WWE and Zayn will be fired soon. Zayn says he would rather work in front of 50 people at armories then ever work for Owens.
- "WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship, Las Vegas Street Fight Match": The Usos (c) vs. The New Day: The match closes out with Big E going for the Big Ending, but it's countered. Jey gets tossed outside as Jimmy gets a near fall rollup on Big E. Big E hits the Big Ending on Jimmy, but Jey stops the pinfall. The Usos hit an enziguri and double Uso Kicks on Big E. The Usos go for the Uso Splash, but Kofi shoves Jey off the ropes and through a table outside. Kofi kicks Jimmy in the head and then New Day hits Midnight Hour to score the pinfall and win the titles. Winners: The New Day, by pinfall, to win the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship.
- "WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship Match": Nattie Neidhart (c) vs. Naomi: The match closes out with Nattie dodging the split legged moonsault. Naomi counters the Sharpshooter submission and sends Nattie outside. Carmella and James Ellsworth appear with the Money In The Bank briefcase. Naomi leaps off the top rope and takes out Carmella and Ellsworth. Nattie tosses Naomi into the ring post, traps Naomi in the Sharpshooter submission and gets the tap out win to retain her title. Winner: Nattie Neidhart, by submission, to retain the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship.
- Backstage, Kevin Owens tells Aiden English he loves his voice and wants English to sing the new Smackdown Live when Owens takes over the WWE.
- Dolph Ziggler Promo: Ziggler mocks more gimmicks and says he's the greatest performer in WWE history. Ziggler mocks Bayley's gimmick, Ultimate Warrior's gimmick and mocks the fans and the company for thinking that this is what makes a star. Ziggler says anyone can do that, but no one can do what he does in the ring. Ziggler says he doesn't care about the fans and walks out to end the segment.
- Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable vs. Zack Ryder and Mojo Rawley: The match closes out with Ryder and Benjamin trading shots. Benjamin counters the Rough Ryder and plants Ryder. Benjamin tags Gable while going for a power bomb on Ryder. Benjamin and Gable hit the double team power bomb on Ryder and score the pinfall. Winners: Shelton Benjamin and Chad Gable, by pinfall.
- After the match, Mojo shakes Benjamin and Gable's hand, but Ryder walks out and refuses.
- Kevin Owens and Vince McMahon Face To Face: Once Vince enters the ring Owens says that now Vince can feel intimidated like every other wrestler that faces Owens. Vince says he's not intimidated at all by Owens, he feels nauseated. Vince says that Owens made remarks about the McMahon family, which forced Shane McMahon to attack him. Vince asks Owens how can he respect himself when he looks in the mirror and thinks it's funny that Big Bad Kevin wants to sue the WWE. Vince promises that the minute Owens files the lawsuit, Owens will no longer be employeed by the WWE. Vince asks Owens if he knows what happens when you try to sue a billionaire, the case drags out and by the time it even goes to court, Owens will be broke while Vince keeps getting richer. Vince tells Owens that he suspended Shane McMahon not for attacking Owens, but because Shane didn't finish the job on Owens.
Vince says Owens got everything he deserved by disrespecting the McMahon family. Vince then announces he's reinstating Shane McMahon and it'll be Shane vs. Owens inside Hell In A Cell at WWE Hell In A Cell. Owens accepts the match, but demands the approval to attack a McMahon without getting fired afterwards. Vince gives the approval. Owens shakes Vince's hand and then lands a head butt on Vince, busting Vince open. Owens says he got the approval to beat up a McMahon and not get fired so Owens attacks Vince. Owens beats down Vince, hits a super kick and then a frog splash as referees try to stop Owens. Owens finally leaves the ring and is ordered backstage by Stephanie McMahon who comes out to check on Vince. Officials help Vince backstage to end the show.
Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE brings you the Weekend 3 Count. W3C brings you wrestling news, rumors and recaps from around the wrestling world. You'll find news rumors and recaps involving WWE, NXT, GFW, ROH, Lucha Underground, NJPW, House of Hardcore, NWA, ICW, CZW, FIP, PWG, AAW, EVOLVE, PROGRESS, SHINE, SHIMMER and any Indy promotion that I find an interesting story or a cool discovery in. Be sure to check out the W3C every Sunday afternoon at @TripleThreatCLE
** Theme Song Of The Week **
This week's theme song goes to the new WWE United States Champion AJ Styles.
*** WWE ***
- Battleground News: If you missed WWE Battleground last Sunday be sure to check out my recap and see how The New Day became the new WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champions and how Kevin Owens became the new WWE United States Champion. Also be sure to check out their champions profile in this edition of Weekend 3 Count as well, further on down in the article.
- The Great Khali Returns: If you missed WWE Battleground this past week, former World Heavyweight Champion The Great Khali returned to help out his friend Jinder Mahal in the Punjabi Prison Match.
- The New Day Set A First: After winning the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship this past week at WWE Battleground, The New Day became the first and only team at the moment to hold both the WWE RAW and Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship.
- Was AJ Styles Supposed To Win At Battleground?: According to sources, there is a backstage rumor going around that the actual AJ Styles vs. Kevin Owens match was botched at the end. Styles was supposed to go over Owens and retain the WWE United States Championship, however, Owens scored the pinfall and left the new champion. After looking at replays, Styles' shoulder was actually up during the deciding pinfall, which should've broken the pinfall from happening. It's unknown if this ending was changed while the match was going on or if Styles was really screwed out of the championship on a referee botched call.
- Chris Jericho Returns MAAAAANNNNNN: In case you missed Smackdown Live this past Tuesday, Chris Jericho returned to the blue brand for another WWE run. It's unknown how long this run will last at the moment.
- AJ Styles Regains WWE United States Championship: In case you missed Smackdown Live this past week, AJ Styles defeated Kevin Owens and Chris Jericho in a Triple Threat Match to win the WWE United States Championship. Check out AJ Styles' champions profile down below.
- As The Paige Turns: According to Pro Wrestling Sheet, WWE Women's Wrestler, Paige, is potentially facing charges from the domestic violence incident with GFW World Heavyweight Champion Alberto El Patron at the Orlando International Airport on July 9th. The Orlando Police Department have reportedly found probable cause to charge the former WWE Divas Champion with domestic battery. The evidence has been forwarded to the state attorney's office for review and they will decide if charges need to be brought against Paige. Alberto El Patron, meanwhile, was suspended by GFW until the investigation is complete. El Patron has not been edited out of any Impact broadcasts during his suspension and looks as if he will not be stripped of the title.
- Paige's Future With WWE: According to sources, Paige could be looking at another WWE suspension over the charges as the company has a zero tolerance policy regarding domestic violence, but she must be arrested before a suspension is brought. A conviction would also bring termination. WWE's policy on domestic violence reads like this:
"WWE has zero tolerance for matters involving domestic violence, child abuse and sexual assault. Upon arrest for such misconduct, a WWE talent will be immediately suspended. Upon conviction for such misconduct, a WWE talent will be immediately terminated. WWE’s ability to fine, suspend or terminate a WWE talent will not be, however, limited or compromised in any manner in the event incontrovertible evidence of such illegal misconduct is presented to WWE. Section 9.13(a) of the WWE booking contract, commonly known as the “morals clause”, provides WWE with broad discretion and authority to act under such circumstances".
- Was Paige Issued An Arrest Warrant??: As of last Monday afternoon, Pro Wrestling Times announced that an arrest warrant was in fact issued for Paige by the San Antonio Police Department, due to the incident at the airport. It's unknown as to whether or not Paige is still even in the United States or if she's out of the country. Paige, however, stated on Tuesday afternoon that those reports of a police warrant were false and she was not being seeked by the police. As previously reported, WWE may be forced to fire Paige, who will now likely be suspended indefinitely. If she is convicted of any of these charges, her contract is likely to terminate. WWE were also helping The Rock produce a movie about Paige's life, it's unknown if WWE will stay on board with the movie or cut ties with it all together.
- Ric Flair's ESPN 30 For 30 Special: It was announced this past week that Ric Flair's ESPN 30 For 30 special will be aired on November 7th.
- UFC Wants Brock Lesnar Back: According to sources, UFC has stated that they would love to get Brock Lesnar back for a fight this year. UFC has been failing money wise this year and is looking into getting Brock Lesnar, Ronda Rousey and Conor McGregor to fight this year. A possible opponent for Lesnar that UFC is looking at is moving Jon "Bones" Jones into the heavyweight division and challenging Lesnar.
** 205 Live Recap ** This week Rich Swann and TJ Perkins battled each other in tag team action with mystery partners. WWE Cruiserweight Champion Neville battled Ariya Daivari in a non title match.
- Backstage, Neville says that Ariya Daivari made a huge mistake on RAW and needs to be reminded that 205 Live is Neville's world. Neville will remind Daivari that he's the King of the Cruiserweights tonight.
- Neville vs. Ariya Daivari: The match closes out with Neville drop kicking Daivari out to the floor. Neville follows him outside and starts arguing with Akira Tozawa who's sitting in on commentary. Daivari sends Neville crashing into Tozawa and gets back into the ring before the 10 count.
Winner: Ariya Daivari, by countout.
- Brian Kendrick Promo: Kendrick says he's sick of trying to help people only to get disrespected. Kendrick then mocks Jack Gallagher, by dressing him like a clown in a picture on the TitanTron. Jack Gallagher hits the ring and says he's not talking this week, instead he's knocking Kendrick's bloody head off. Kendrick escapes the ring to end the segment.
- Backstage, Rich Swann announces that he's picked Cedric Alexander as his mystery partner tonight. TJ Perkins announces that he's picked Tony Nese as his mystery partner.
- TJ Perkins and Tony Nese vs. Rich Swann and Cedric Alexander: The match closes out with Nese sending Swann into the announcers table. Perkins hits the Detonation Kick on Alexander for a near fall. Alexander goes to the top rope, but gets shoved off by Nese, allowing Perkins to score the pinfall.
Winners: TJ Perkins and Tony Nese, by pinfall.
- Champions Profile: THE NEW DAY: The New Day defeated The Usos this past week at WWE Battleground to become the new WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champions.
- Big E made his professional wrestling debut in 2009, was trained at Florida Championship Wrestling and in NXT. Big E was born in Tampa, Florida.
- Big E has wrestled for FCW, NXT and WWE.
- Top Titles Won:
* 1 Time FCW World Tag Team Champion
* 1 Time WWE Intercontinental Champion.
* 2 Time WWE RAW World Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time NXT World Champion.
- PWI ranked Big E #24 of 500 singles wrestlers in 2014.
- Kofi Kingston made his professional wrestling debut in 2006 and was trained by Ohio Valley Wrestling, Chaotic Wrestling and Killer Kowalski. Kofi Kingston was born in Kumasi, Ashanti, Ghana.
- Kofi Kingston has wrestled for NWA, WWE's ECW, WWE and other Indy Promotions.
- Top Titles Won:
* 4 Time WWE Intercontinental Champion.
* 3 Time WWE United States Champion.
* 1 Time WWE World Tag Team Champion.
* 4 Time WWE RAW World Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champion.
- PWI ranked Kofi Kingston #20 out of 500 singles wrestlers in 2013
- Xavier Woods made his professional wrestling debut in 2005 and was trained by Brodie Lee Chase and Rob Adonis. Woods was born in Columbus, Georgia.
- Xavier Woods has wrestled for TNA, NJPW, FCW, WWE and other Indy Promotions.
- Top Titles Won:
* 1 Time DSW Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time FCW World Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time NWA Anarchy Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time TNA World Tag Team Champion.
* 2 Time WWE RAW World Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champion.
- Xavier Woods was ranked #58 out of 500 singles wrestlers.
- PWI picked The New Day as Tag Team Of The Year in 2015 and 2016.
- The New Day are also the longest reigning WWE World Tag Team Champions in company history, holding the titles for 483 days.
- Champions Profile: KEVIN OWENS: Kevin Owens defeated AJ Styles this past week at WWE Battleground to become the new WWE United States Champion.
- Kevin Owens made his professional wrestling debut in 2000 and was trained by Carl Ouellet, Jacques Rougeau, Serge Jodoin and Terry Taylor. Kevin Owens was born in Saint Jean sur Richelieu, Quebec, Canada.
- Kevin Owens has wrestled for CZW, PWG, ROH, NXT, WWE and other Indy Promotions.
- Top Titles Won:
* 1 Time AAW Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time C4 Champion.
* 1 Time C4 Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time CRW Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time CZW Iron Man Champion.
* 2 Time EWR Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time IWS Canadian Champion.
* 3 Time IWS World Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time NSPW Champion.
* 3 Time PWG World Champion.
* 3 Time PWG World Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time ROH World Champion.
* 1 Time ROH World Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time 2CW Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time 2CW World Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time NXT World Champion.
* 1 Time WWE Universal Champion.
* 2 Time WWE Intercontinental Champion.
* 3 Time WWE United States Champion.
- Kevin Owens was ranked #6 out of 500 singles wrestlers in 2016.
- Champions Profile: AJ STYLES: AJ Styles defeated Kevin Owens and Chris Jericho this past week on Smackdown Live to win the WWE United States Championship.
- AJ Styles made his professional wrestling debut in 1998 and was trained by Rick Michaels. Styles was born at the Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina
- AJ Styles has wrestled for TNA, ROH, NJPW, WWE, PWG, NWA and other Indy Promotions.
- Top Titles Won:
* 1 Time AAW Heavyweight Champion.
* 3 Time Ballpark Brawl Natural Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time CWF/CWE Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time FWE Heavyweight Champion.
* 4 Time IPW Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time IWA Mid-South Heavyweight Champion.
* 4 Time IWC Super Indies Champion.
* 1 Time IWR King of The Indies Champion.
* 1 Time Max-Pro Cruiserweight Champion.
* 1 Time MPW Universal Heavyweight Champion.
* 2 Time IWGP Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time NKPWA Junior Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time NWA Wildside Heavyweight Champion.
* 3 Time NWA Wildside Television Champion.
* 1 Time PPW Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time PWG World Champion.
* 1 Time RPW British Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time ROH Pure Wrestling Champion.
* 1 Time ROH World Tag Team Champion.
* 3 Time NWA World Heavyweight Champion.
* 4 Time NWA World Tag Team Champion.
* 2 Time Legends/Global/Television Champion.
* 2 Time TNA World Heavyweight Champion.
* 2 Time TNA World Tag Team Champion.
* 6 Time TNA X Division Champion.
* 1 Time WWA International Cruiserweight Champion.
* 1 Time WWE World Heavyweight Champion.
* 2 Time WWE United States Champion.
- PWI ranked AJ Styles #1 on the 500 best singles wrestlers of the year in 2010.
*** NXT ***
- Vince McMahon Possibly Moving Talent To NXT: According to sources, it has been said that Vince McMahon is thinking about moving unused and struggling WWE main roster talent back down to NXT for improvement. This can help the struggling talent possibly reinvent themselves and help them get noticed by the fans again before making another main roster appearance.
- Takover: Brooklyn 3 Matches So Far: The following matches were made official for NXT Takeover: Brooklyn 3 this past Wednesday night.
- "NXT World Championship Match": Bobby Roode (c) vs. Drew McIntyre
- "NXT Women's Championship Match": Asuka (c) vs. Ember Moon
*** GFW ***
** GFW Impact Recap ** This week's show saw GFW World Heavyweight Champion Alberto El Patron battle LAX in a non title gauntlet match. Unified Knockouts Champion Sienna defended her title against Rosemary in a Last Woman Standing Match.
- Earlier in the day, Joseph Park is hyping up Grado in asking Laurel Van Ness to marry him so he can stay in the United States.
- The show begins with the Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer announcing today as "Impact Day" and he'll be doing the ring announcing tonight.
- "Six Man Tag Team Match": Ethan Carter, Eli Drake and Chris Adonis vs. Moose, Marufuji and Eddie Edwards: The match closes out with EC3 attempting to hit Moose with the Grand Championship while the referee is distracted. Moose counters, but EC3 lands a low blow and then a double underhook butterfly suplex that EC3 calls the ECD and scores the pinfall.
Winners: Ethan Carter, Eli Drake and Chris Adonis, by pinfall.
- Backstage, an unknown wrestler named Richard Justice announces that he's the standby wrestler in case the show needs to be stretched out due to time issues.
- Bobby Lashley Promo: Lashley says he's sick of newcomers coming in, automatically getting title shots and special privileges and demands Bruce Prichard to give him a world title shot at Destination X. Prichard interrupts and reminds Lashley that he's sick of wrestlers giving him demands. Matt Sydal interrupts next, says he'll not be ignored anymore and starts brawling with Lashley. Sydal gets the advantage and hits Lashley with the Shooting Star Press to end the segment.
- "Super X-Cup Tournament Match": Davey Richards vs. Taiji Ishimori: The match closes out with Richards countering a springboard and trapping Ishimori in an Ankle Lock submission. Ishimori escapes, but eats a stiff kick. Richards misses the double foot stomp and then both men trade reversals. Ishimori takes out Richards and then hits the 450 Splash to score the pinfall and advance in the tournament.
Winner: Taiji Ishimori, by pinfall.
- Backstage, Bruce Prichard announces that Bobby Lashley will face Matt Sydal at Destination X in 3 weeks in a Shot vs. Shot Match. If Lashley wins he gets a World Championship and X Division Championship Match. If Sydal wins he gets the World Championship and X Division Championship Match.
- "Unified Knockouts Championship, Last Woman Standing Match": Sienna (c) vs. Rosemary: The match closes out with Sienna hitting a mid air Silencer on Rosemary and getting a 9 count. Rosemary drops Sienna with Red Wedding on a steel chair. KM hits the ring and helps Sienna stand at a 9 count. Rosemary chases off KM and then smacks Sienna with a chair. Rosemary grabs a trash can and puts it on Sienna while she's on a table. KM returns and distracts Rosemary, which allows Sienna to shove Rosemary off the top rope and through the table at ringside. Sienna beats the 10 count and retains her title as Rosemary is still laid out.
Winner: Sienna, by knock out, to retain the Unified Knockouts Championship.
- Backstage, Joseph Park is prepping Grado for his marriage proposal to Laurel Van Ness.
- Backstage, Ethan Carter says he's in Moose's head and will get a GFW Grand Championship Match next week.
- Backstage, Alberto El Patron is with his father and brother. El Patron says he's the exact opposite of LAX, because they are led by Konnan, who's a lunatic. El Patron promises revenge for his father and brother tonight.
- Trevor Lee is in the ring still with Sonjay Dutt's X Division Championship. Lee says Dutt is banned from the building, Lee is a fighting champion and will defend it tonight against a Mexican icon. Mexican Mini Octagoncito hits the ring and is announced as his opponent.
- Trevor Lee vs. Octagoncito: The match closes out with Lee getting bored with Octagoncito and takes the count out loss.
Winner: Octagoncito, by count out.
- After the match, Sonjay Dutt goes after Trevor Lee, but is caught and escorted out of the building by GFW Security.
- At LAX's clubhouse, Konnan talks about finishing off Alberto El Patron once and for all and instructs Homicide to start off the Gauntlet Match tonight.
- Grado and Joseph Park Promo: Grado comes out in an orange suit and calls out Laurel Van Ness. Laurel arrives and Grado begins complementing her beauty as he gets on one knee. Allie interrupts and is excited, but Braxton Sutter interrupts and forces Allie backstage. Kongo Kong interrupts next, chases Grado away and grabs Laurel in his arms to end the segment.
- "Gauntlet Match": Alberto El Patron vs. LAX:
** Alberto El Patron vs. Homicide: The match closes out quickly as El Patron hits a top rope splash on Homicide and scores the pinfall.
** Alberto El Patron vs. Ortiz: The match closes out with Santana trying to interfere and help Ortiz. El Patron takes out Santana and then hits the tree of woe double foot stomp on Ortiz to score the pinfall.
** Alberto El Patron vs. Santana: The match closes out with El Patron grabbing Konnan, but Diamante leaps at El Patron, however, she gets caught in mid air and dumped onto the rest of LAX. El Patron traps Santana in the cross arm breaker submission, but LAX all jump El Patron and get DQ'ed.
Winner: Alberto El Patron.
- After the match, LAX tie up El Patron with flags and beat him down. El Patron's brother El Hijo hits the ring, but gets beat down. El Patron's father Dos Caras hits the ring with a steel chair and with the Veterans of War. El Patron, VOW and Dos Caras all clear the ring to end the show.
- Moose Re-Signs With GFW: Moose announced this week that he has signed a new three year contract to compete with GFW Wrestling.
- Matt Morgan Done: Matt Morgan announced this week that he no longer works for GFW. Morgan stated that he made a deal with GFW where he could wrestle for them, since they tape TV shows on the weekend, as long as it didn't effect is Monday through Friday 9-5 job. GFW since have decided to begin doing TV tapings during the weekdays, which would cause Morgan to be unable to attend, due to work. Morgan asked for his release and was respectfully granted it by GFW.
- Davey Richards Done: Davey Richards officially announced this past week that he has asked for his release from GFW, which they respectfully granted. Richards stated that he plans on finishing up his medical degree and eventually becoming a full time doctor.
*** RING OF HONOR ***
** ROH TV Recap ** This week's main event saw ROH Television Champion Kushida defend his title against Jay White.
- "Six Man Mayhem Match": 'The Villain' Marty Scurll vs. Frankie Kazarian vs. Josh Woods vs. Vinny Marseglia vs. Will Ferrara vs. El Terrible: The match closes out with Shane Taylor hitting the ring and knocking out Woods. Kazarian takes out El Terrible, Ferrara and Marseglia. Kazarian goes for the pin on Marseglia, but gets tossed outside by Scurll. Scurll covers Marseglia and scores the pinfall.
Winner: 'The Villain' Marty Scurll, by pinfall.
- A video airs of Christopher Daniels stating that he doesn't want his one loss to Cody Rhodes defining him as a wrestler. Daniels vows to win back the ROH World Heavyweight Championship in a 2 Out of 3 Falls Match from Cody in 2 weeks.
- The Beer City Bruiser vs. Brian 'The Kingpin' Milonas: The match closes out with Bruiser going to the top rope and hitting a frog splash on Milonas to score the pinfall.
Winner: The Beer City Bruiser, by pinfall.
- After the match, Silas Young gives us an update on Jay Lethal being missing for 29 days now since Young injured him.
- "ROH Television Championship Match": Kushida (c) vs. Jay White: The match closes out with Kushida applying the Hoverboard Lock submission on White while on the ropes. Kushida then tosses White off the ropes when the referee tells him to release the hold. Kushida lifts White up while still in the Hoverboard Lock submission and hits Back To The Future on White to score the pinfall and retain his title.
Winner: Kushida, by pinfall, to retain the ROH Television Championship.
- After the match, #1 Contender Kenny King arrives and applauds both men's performance and says he's looking forward to fighting Kushida.
*** Lucha Underground ***
** Lucha Underground TV Recap ** This week, #1 Contender to the Lucha Underground World Championship Rey Mysterio battled PJ Black. Also The Cueto Cup Tournament continued.
- "The Cueto Cup Tournament Match": The Mack vs. Texano: The match closes out with The Mack in control of Texano until Famous B distracts Mack. Mack lays out Famous B with a Stunner, but gets hit with the Sit Down Power Bomb by Texano for the pinfall, to advance in the tournament.
Winner: Texano, by pinfall.
- At a local bar, Son of Madness interrupts Son of Havoc. Havoc says he turned his back on the Invisible Cult Club. Madness tells Havoc that he'll have to return to the club eventually.
- Backstage, The Rabbit Tribe are apologizing to Mascarita Sagrada for failing him in The Cueto Cup. Sagrada gives the Tribe a rabbit's foot which they seemed pleased with.
- "The Cueto Cup Tournament Match": Pentagon Dark vs. Drago: The match closes out with Pentagon beating down Drago, while Kobra Moon barks orders to Drago. Drago hits a springboard and follows with a frankensteiner on Pentagon. Drago hits a top rope splash and gets a near fall. Drago next hits a Mexican Destroyer on Pentagon for another near fall. Pentagon finally catches Drago and hits the package piledriver to score the pinfall, to advance in the tournament.
Winner: Pentagon Dark, by pinfall.
- After the match, Pentagon goes for the arm break on Drago, but Kobra Moon tries to make the save. Pentagon shoves down Kobra and goes for the arm break again on Drago. Aerostar hits the ring to make the save, but Drago refuses help and shoves Aerostar into the mat face first. Drago escapes with Kobra as Pentagon grabs Aerostar and breaks his arm instead.
- Backstage, Catrina approaches Pentagon Dark and says he has something that belongs to her and Mil Muertes. Pentagon reveals the Cero Miedo sign in her face. Catrina threatens Pentagon again and then disappears.
- Rey Mysterio vs. PJ Black: The match closes out with Rey hitting a tornado DDT on Black, but referee Marty Eias gets knocked out during the move. Johnny Mundo hits the ring and attacks Rey before waking up Black. Jack Evans hits the ring and it's a 3 on 1 beat down on Rey. El Dragon Azteca hits the ring and goes after Worldwide Underground, chasing them out of the ring. Taya hits ringside and trips up Azteca on the floor. Black gets thrown on top of Rey as the referee wakes up, but Rey kicks out at two and a half. Azteca returns and chases WU backstage. Rey counters a Razors Edge from Black, hits the 619 and the springboard frog splash to score the pinfall.
- After the match, Rey Mysterio warns Johnny Mundo that in 4 more weeks Johnny won't be running anymore and Rey will become the new Lucha Underground World Champion.
- The Cueto Cup Tournament Final 8: The following are the Final 8 remaining in the Cueto Cup Tournament with the winner becoming the new #1 Contender to the Lucha Underground World Championship.
* Pentagon Dark vs. Texano
* Mil Muertes vs. Jeremiah Crane
* Fenix vs. Pindar
* Prince Puma vs. Dante Fox
*** NEW JAPAN PRO WRESTLING ***
** G1 Climax Night #5 Highlights ** NJPW returned this week with more G1 Climax Tournament action to crown a new #1 Contender to the IWGP Heavyweight Championship.
** The Squared Ring Recap ** WrestleCircus returned this past week for their The Squared Ring event. The show saw the CZW Wired Championship defended, WrestleCircus titles defended and appearances by some well known wrestlers throughout the business currently. The main event of the show saw WrestleCircus Sideshow Champion Tessa Blanchard battle WrestleCircus Lady of the Ring Champion Rachael Ellering with both titles on the line.
- Lance Archer vs. Steve Reno: The match closes out with Archer making quick work of Reno and getting the easy pinfall.
Winner: Lance Archer, by pinfall.
- "CZW Wired Championship Match": MJF (c) vs. Lio Rush: The match closes out with MJF hitting a piledriver through the second rope on Rush to score the pinfall and retain his title.
Winner: MJF, by pinfall, to retain the CZW Wired Championship.
- The Mecha Wolf vs. Ethan Page: The match closes out with Wolf hitting a suplex/kick to the head combo on Page to score the pinfall.
Winner: The Mecha Wolf, by pinfall.
- Scorpio Sky vs. ACH: The match closes out with Sky scoring a rollup pinfall on ACH while holding onto a handful of tights.
Winner: Scorpio Sky, by pinfall.
- Sammy Guevara vs. Flip Gordon: The match closes out with Guevara hitting the 630 Splash on Gordon to score the pinfall.
Winner: Sammy Guevara, by pinfall.
- John Morrison and Taya Valkyrie Promo: Morrison rips on the AAA wrestling promotion in Mexico. Taya warns everyone not to wrestle in Mexico because Vampiro would probably steal everyone's championships and award them to Sexy Star for no reason. Taya says they'll continue to work for Lucha Underground and GFW like the good little soldiers, but Vampiro and Jeff Jarrett shouldn't expect wedding invitations to their wedding.
- "Wrestling Revolver Scramble Championship, Open Challenge Match: The match closes out with current champion Jordan Len X coming out victorious against 11 other wrestlers to retain his title.
Winner: Jordan Len X, to retain the Wrestling Revolver Scramble Championship.
- Sami Callihan Promo: After the Open Challenge Match, Sami Callihan hits the ring and destroys Leva Bates with a piledriver before cutting a promo. Callihan calls NXT and Lucha Underground bullshit promotions and from this day forward independent wrestling runs through him. Callihan accuses Jordan Len X of being a champion only because his brother runs WrestleCircus. Shane Strickland interrupts and says he's sick of Callihan's bullshit and disrespectfulness. Strickland gets spit on and slapped by Callihan. Strickland announces that his match against Callihan tonight will now be a No DQ Match. Callihan throws a steel chair at Strickland, but he catches it and dares Callihan to try something right now to end the segment.
- John Morrison vs. Donovan Dijak: The match closes out with Morrison kicking out of Feast Your Eyes twice. Morrison accidentally kicks Taya Valkyrie as she tried to distract the referee. Dijak goes for Morrison's own finisher Starship Pain, but Morrison moves out of the way. Morrison hits Dijak with Starship Pain and scores the pinfall.
Winner: John Morrison, by pinfall.
- "WrestleCircus Big Top Tag Team Championship Match": Roppongi Vice (c) vs. The Lucha Brothers: The match closes out with RPG hitting Strong Zero to score the pinfall to retain their titles.
Winners: Roppongi Vice, by pinfall, to retain the WrestleCircus Big Top Tag Team Championship.
- Christi Jaynes and Gentleman Jervis vs. Colt Cabana and Delilah Doom: The match closes out with Christi and Jarvis scoring the pinfall.
Winners: Christi Jaynes and Gentleman Jervis, by pinfall.
- "Ringmaster Championship Match": Shane Strickland (c) vs. Sami Callihan: The match closes out with Callihan trapping Strickland in the Stretch Muffler submission. Strickland begins fading, but somehow finds a way to reverse the hold into an Arm Breaker submission. Strickland applies the pressure and kicks Callihan in the face repeatedly until Callihan finally taps out.
Winner: Shane Strickland, by submission, to retain the Ringmaster Championship.
- "WrestleCircus Sideshow Championship and WrestleCircus Lady of the Ring Championship Match": Tessa Blanchard (c) vs. Rachael Ellering (c): The match closes out with Tessa getting the win to retain her title and win Rachael's title.
Winner: Tessa Blanchard, by pinfall, to win the WrestleCircus Lady of the Ring Championship and retain the WrestleCircus Sideshow Championship.
- Champions Profile: TESSA BLANCHARD: This past week Tessa Blanchard defeated Rachael Ellering to win the WrestleCircus Lady of the Ring Championship. Tessa also currently holds the WrestleCircus Sideshow Championship.
- Tessa Blanchard made her pro wrestling debut in 2014, was trained by Magnum TA, Tully Blanchard and George South. Tessa was born in the Queen City of Charlotte, North Carolina. Tessa is the daughter of WWE Hall of Famer and past 4 Horsemen member Tully Blanchard. Tessa is also the granddaughter of Joe Blanchard and stepdaughter of Magnum TA. Tessa is also currently dating Ricochet/Prince Puma.
- Tessa Blanchard has competed in SHINE, SHIMMER, NXT, Lucha Underground and other Indy Promotions.
- Top Titles Won:
* 1 Time APWA World Ladies Champion.
* 1 Time ECWA Women's Champion.
* 1 Time EWA Florida Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time EWA Heavyweight Champion.
* 1 Time PWX Women's Champion.
* 1 Time Remix Pro Fury Champion.
* 1 Time SHIMMER Tag Team Champion.
* 1 Time WrestleCircus Lady of the Ring Champion.
* 1 Time WrestleCircus Sideshow Champion.
- PWI ranked Tessa Blanchard #38 out of 50 for Top 50 Best Female Singles Wrestlers of 2016.
And that's this week's W3C! Join me every Sunday afternoon as I bring you news, recaps and rumors all around the wrestling world!
We're back with this week's Smackdown Live recap, just two days removed from this past Sunday's WWE Battleground pay per view. Jinder Mahal continues his reign as WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Kevin Owens and The New Day are new champions and now we're just one month away from WWE SummerSlam. What surprises would Smackdown Live have for us this week, as they were live in Richmond, Virginia.
** Smackdown Live Card **
- Shinsuke Nakamura battled Baron Corbin in a rematch from WWE Battleground. - Charlotte and Becky Lynch battled Tamina and Lana. - Tye Dillinger and Sami Zayn battled Mike Kanellis and Aiden English. - WWE United States Champion Kevin Owens defended his title against AJ Styles and Chris Jericho in a Triple Threat Match.
- New WWE United States Champion Kevin Owens gets a surprise visit.
- WWE World Heavyweight Champion Jinder Mahal demanded his next opponent for WWE SummerSlam.
- The Usos send a message to the newly crowned WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champions The New Day.
** Smackdown Live **
- Kevin Owens Promo: Kevin Owens brags about his Battleground victory over AJ Styles and how good things come to good people. Owens announces the return of the United States Championship Open Challenge....but....not this week in front of the hick fans of Virginia. AJ Styles interrupts and demands his rematch for the title right here, right now. Owens shoots down that idea and then gets interrupted by.....CHRIS JERICHO! Jericho says he's back and wants his rematch for the title that he never got because he was stretchered out last time he was in a WWE ring. Styles says he's glad he's back, but Jericho needs to get in line behind Styles. Jericho accuses Styles of line jumping him and adds Styles to The List. Owens tries to walk out, but gets interrupted by Shane McMahon. Shane announces a Triple Threat Match for the title tonight between Styles, Jericho and Owens to end the segment.
- Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Baron Corbin: The match closes out with Corbin getting a near fall Deep Six. Nakamura counters End of Days and trades shots with Corbin. Nakamura blocks a low blow from Corbin and connects with kicks. Nakamura hits the Kinshasa on Corbin and scores the pinfall. Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura, by pinfall.
- Backstage, Naomi talks about Nattie Neidhart disrespecting her. Nattie interrupts and mocks Naomi for what she's done to the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship since winning it. Nattie says Naomi is disrespectful and needs to appreciate the ones that paved the way for Naomi. Naomi says she has respect, earned the title and will make Nattie feel the glow at WWE SummerSlam. Carmella appears and reminds Naomi that she's watching her with her Money In The Bank briefcase.
- Charlotte and Becky Lynch vs. Tamina and Lana: The match closes out with Charlotte in control of Tamina. Tamina counters a slam and plants a super kick on Charlotte. Lana tags in as Charlotte kicks Tamina outside. Charlotte then hits a Big Boot on Lana for the pinfall. Winners: Charlotte and Becky Lynch, by pinfall.
- After the match, Tamina yells at Lana for losing, but still let's Lana leave with her.
- Jinder Mahal Promo: Mahal brags about defeating Randy Orton at WWE Battleground and demands to know who his next opponent is for WWE SummerSlam. Mahal begins speaking in his home language to his fans in India when John Cena interrupts. Cena says he's here to congratulate Mahal after Mahal sarcastically guesses at what Cena is going to say to him. Cena sends his congratulations and sends a heads up to Mahal, because at WWE SummerSlam Mahal will meet Super Cena as Cena will become a 17 Time WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Daniel Bryan interrupts and informs Cena that Cena doesn't make the matches he has to earn them just like everyone else. Bryan announces a #1 Contenders Match next week between John Cena and Shinsuke Nakamura to end the segment.
- Backstage, Kevin Owens tells Shane McMahon that it's not fair that he has to defend his title in a Triple Threat Match. Shane says he's not worried about Owens he's worried about putting on a great main event for the fans.
- Tye Dillinger and Sami Zayn vs. Aiden English and Mike Kanellis: The match closes out with Dillinger hitting a ten count punch on Kanellis in the corner. Dillinger drops English and unloads more offense on Kanellis. Zayn tags in and scores with the Helluva Kick to score the pinfall. Winners: Sami Zayn and Tye Dillinger, by pinfall.
- The New Day head to the ring and suddenly get jumped from behind by The Usos. The Usos drag Kofi and Woods out to the stage, beat them down and toss them into the LED board. Big E tries to make a comeback, but gets drilled with double Uso Kicks. The Usos celebrate as The New Day is left laid out.
- Backstage, Shinsuke Nakamura says that next week John Cena won't see him and Jinder Mahal will see him at WWE SummerSlam.
- "WWE United States Championship, Triple Threat Match": Kevin Owens (c) vs. AJ Styles vs. Chris Jericho: The match closes out with Owens hitting double corner cannonballs on Jericho and Styles. Jericho plants an enziguri on Styles and then Jericho eats an Owens super kick. Styles hits a Pele Kick on Owens and all three men are down. Jericho tosses Styles outside and then eats another Owens super kick. Owens hits the Pop Up Power Bomb on Jericho, but Jericho somehow kicks out at two and a half. Owens hits a frog splash on Jericho, but Styles grabs Owens and tosses him outside. Styles quickly covers Jericho and scores the pinfall to win the title. Winner: AJ Styles, by pinfall, to win the WWE United States Championship.
- After the match, Kevin Owens has a temper tantrum, tears apart the announcers table and tosses steel chairs. Owens grabs a microphone and demands a title shot against Styles next week. Styles accepts as the show closes out.
WWE Battleground finally arrived on the WWE Network and I'm here with your official WWE Battleground recap from the show! WWE Battleground was live in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at the Wells Fargo Center. All the major championships were on the line and a few stipulated matches were included as well. Who walked out victorious in this Smackdown Live pay per view?
*** WWE Battleground Card ***
- WWE World Heavyweight Champion Jinder Mahal defended his title against Randy Orton in a Punjabi Prison Match. - WWE United States Champion AJ Styles defended his title against Kevin Owens. - WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Champions The Usos defended their titles against The New Day. - John Cena battled Rusev in a Flag Match. - Charlotte, Becky Lynch, Lana, Nattie Neidhart and Tamina battled it out in a Fatal Five Way Elimination Match, to determine a new #1 Contender to the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship. - Shinsuke Nakamura battled WWE Money In The Bank Winner Baron Corbin. - Mike Kanellis battled Sami Zayn. - Tye Dillinger battled Aiden English.
- Breezango looks to finally get to the bottom of who's been trashing their office and sending them threatening messages.
** WWE Battleground Pre-Show **
- Social Media Lounge Interview With Mike and Maria Kanellis: Maria is asked when she'll be back in the ring. Maria says she's always in the ring with her man, showing the power of love. Mike is asked about his strategy tonight. Mike says it's simple, he's going to punch Sami Zayn as hard as he can in the head. Mike and Maria are both asked if they have advice for everyone looking for true love. Maria says it won't happen because there's only one Mike and Maria Kanellis. Mike is wished good luck, but he says he doesn't need it because he has love.
- Tye Dillinger vs. Aiden English: The match closes out with English grounding Dillinger and taking control of the match. English taunts Dillinger by singing a song while keeping him grounded. Dillinger fights back with a drop kick, unloads on English and goes for the Tye Breaker. English escapes outside and then lands a cheap shot on Dillinger as Dillanger chased English. Back in the ring, Dillinger hits a spine buster on English and gets a near fall. Both men battle to the top rope, where English counters a superplex and head butts Dillinger to the mat. English hits a flying cross body, but Dillinger rolls through on the catch and gets a near fall on English. English counters another Tye Breaker, plants Dillinger into the mat face first and gets a near fall. English starts to have a temper tantrum before trading shots with Dillinger. Dillinger and English trade more offensive moves until English catches Dillinger with the Director's Cut and scores the pinfall. Winner: Aiden English, by pinfall.
** WWE Battleground **
- "WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship Match": The Usos (c) vs. The New Day: The match closes out with Jimmy missing the Uso Splash and Woods getting a near fall. Jimmy counters the Honor Roll as Jey tags in and hits a Samoan Drop on Woods for a near fall. The Usos double team Woods on the apron until Woods connects with an enziguri on Jey. Woods goes for an elbow drop off the ropes, but eats an Uso Kick from Jimmy for a near fall. Jimmy traps Woods in the crab submission and locks it tight. Woods fights for the ropes and finally escapes as Jimmy argues with the referee. Kofi tags in and he and Woods hit Midnight Hour on Jimmy, but it's a surprising near fall. Kofi springboards, but eats an Uso Kick from Jimmy and then Jey hits the Uso Splash off the ropes, but its another near fall. Both Usos climb the ropes, but Woods takes out Jey. Jimmy leaps and misses Kofi. Kofi hits Jimmy with Trouble in Paradise and Woods follows with a flying elbow drop to score the pinfall and win the titles. Winners: The New Day, by pinfall, to win the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship.
- Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Baron Corbin: The match closes out with Nakamura hitting a high knee on Corbin and follows with another for a near fall. Corbin hits a running clothesline on Nakamura and gets a near fall. Corbin unloads on Nakamura until Nakamura blocks a suplex attempt with a knee on Corbin. Nakamura delivers knees to Corbin's shoulder area, slams Corbin and measures for Kinshasa. Corbin counters Kinshasa, drills Nakamura with Deep Six and gets a near fall, leaving both men laid out. Both men are up as Corbin lands some shots on Nakamura. Nakamura fights back, counters a choke slam and hits a backstabber on Corbin. Nakamura takes offensive control and goes for the Exploder suplex on Corbin. Corbin purposely back kicks Nakamura below the belt and gets himself DQ'ed. Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura, by DQ.
- After the match, Corbin smiles at his DQ loss and grabs his Money In The Bank briefcase. Corbin leaves, but comes back and lands a gut shot on Nakamura with the briefcase. Corbin hits End of Days and leaves Nakamura laid out.
- "Fatal Five Way, Elimination Match": Charlotte vs. Lana vs. Becky Lynch vs. Nattie Neidhart vs. Tamina:
** First Elimination: Lana drops Nattie and gets a near fall on Charlotte. Lana shows frustration and doesn't see Becky coming from behind. Becky traps Lana in the Dis Arm Her submission, but Tamina lands a kick, breaking the submission. Tamina plants Becky with a Samoan Drop and then spears Charlotte off the apron. Lana tries to steal the pinfall on Becky, but again gets trapped in the Dis Arm Her submission. Tamina again breaks the submission. Becky grabs Tamina and traps her in the Dis Arm Her submission and forces her to tap out.
** Second Elimination: Becky releases Tamina, immediately grabs Lana and forces her to tap out to the Dis Arm Her submission.
** Third Elimination: Nattie quickly grabs Becky after the submission and gets the surprise rollup pinfall.
** Final Elimination: We're down to Charlotte vs. Nattie Neidhart. Charlotte goes for the Figure Four leg lock submission, but Nattie counters into an arm breaker submission. Charlotte powers out and plants Nattie with a power bomb for a near fall. Charlotte goes for the moonsault off the ropes, but Nattie gets her knees up for the block. Nattie sends Charlotte head first into the turnbuckle and scores the pinfall. Winner: Nattie Neidhart, to become the new #1 Contender.
- After the match, WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Naomi gets in the ring and extends her hand to Nattie. Nattie stares down Naomi and walks off, blowing off the handshake.
- "WWE United States Championship Match": AJ Styles (c) vs. Kevin Owens: The match closes out with Styles getting crotched on the ropes. Owens attempts a superplex, but Styles blocks it. Owens lands a shot to the face of Styles, but Styles slips free and sends Owens into the turnbuckle. Styles goes for a springboard, but Owens rolls outside. Owens takes out Styles, sends him into the ring post and then hits an arm breaker. Styles hits the Pele Kick and goes for the Styles Clash, but Styles' shoulder is bothering him and can't hit it. Owens sends Styles into the referee and all three men go down. Styles is up first, but eats a super kick from Owens. Styles counters out of the Pop Up Power Bomb and traps Owens in the Calf Crusher submission. The referee begins to wake up as Owens counters Styles' submission into one of his own. Styles counters out and traps Owens in a crossface submission. Owens counters the crossface into a pin and scores the pinfall to win the title. Winner: Kevin Owens, by pinfall, to win the WWE United States Championship.
- Backstage, The Singh Brothers inform Jinder Mahal that they are not going to be at ringside for his Punjabi Prison Match. Mahal says he's not worried because he'll take out Randy Orton alone and make the Punjabi Prison Orton's final resting place.
- "Flag Match": John Cena vs. Rusev: The match closes out with Cena going for the American Flag posted at the ramp. Rusev cuts him off and they both trade shots. Cena grabs the American Flag and tries to place it in the flag stand for the win, but Rusev grabs the flag stand and hits Cena with it. Rusev hits a stomp on Cena and locks on The Accolade submission. Rusev releases the hold and goes for the Bulgarian Flag. Rusev grabs the flag and heads toward the flag stand. Cena cuts off Rusev and they trade shots on the podium by the flag stand. Rusev counters an AA and hits Cena with the thrust kick. Rusev stomps on Cena's back and reapplies The Accolade submission. Cena powers out with Rusev on his back, walks up to the podium and AA's Rusev off the podium and through double stacked tables below. Cena grabs the American Flag and places it in the flag stand to win the match. Winner: John Cena.
- We get a Fashion Files video with Breezango trying to figure out who's been threatening them. The Ascension try to take credit for everything that's been happening. The lights suddenly go out and when they come back on both Tyler Breeze and Fandango are laid out and dragged away by unknown men.
- Mike Kanellis vs. Sami Zayn: The match closes out with Zayn hitting a clothesline on Kanellis and follows with a back body drop. Zayn tosses Kanellis outside and then hits a suicide dive. Back in the ring, Zayn goes to the top rope and gets a near fall cross body on Kanellis. Kanellis counters a Blue Thunder Bomb from Zayn, but Zayn is able to hit a DDT. Zayn goes for the Exploder suplex, but Maria Kanellis gets in the ring and acts as a shield for Mike. Maria yells at the referee and Zayn, distracting both. The referee orders Maria out as Mike tries to cheap shot Zayn. Zayn counters and hits the Exploder suplex on Mike into the corner. Zayn hits the Helluva Kick on Mike and scores the pinfall. Winner: Sami Zayn, by pinfall.
- "WWE World Heavyweight Championship, Punjabi Prison Match": Jinder Mahal (c) vs. Randy Orton: Jinder immediately calls for the first door of the inner cage to be opened. Mahal and Orton trade offense, send each other into the bamboo walls and stop each other from getting out of door number one as the 60 seconds expires, locking door number one permanently. We get back and forth offense as door number two is asked to be opened. Orton tries to escape after kicking Mahal away, but Mahal cuts off and stops Orton, as the 60 seconds expire, locking door number two permanently. More back and forth offense, which sees Mahal try to climb out of the inner structure, Orton suplexing Mahal into the bamboo cell and then trying to escape door number three. Both men stop each other from getting through door number three as the 60 seconds expire, closing it permanently. Orton hits the draping DDT on Mahal and asks for the last door to be opened. Mahal counters an RKO and knees Orton in the face. Mahal goes for the Cobra Clutch Slam, but Orton counters and hits the RKO.
The Singh Brothers suddenly hit the ring and get inside the Prison. The Singh Brothers pull Mahal out of the final door into the outer structure right as the 60 seconds expire, trapping Orton with no unlockable doors in the inner structure. Orton climbs out of the inner structure and stops Mahal from climbing out of the outer structure, but gets caught in a 3 on 1 beat down. The match closes out with Orton unloading steel chair shots and kendo stick shots on The Singh Brothers and Mahal. Orton starts climbing out of the outer structure as Sunil Singh tries to stop Orton. Orton kicks Sunil away when suddenly The Great Khali's music hits and out comes Khali. Khali shakes the outside structure stopping Orton from escaping. Khali climbs the structure and grabs Orton by the throat. Orton gets choked out while dangling from the cell wall as Mahal climbs out from the other side of the cell and wins the match to retain his title. Mahal celebrates with Khali to end the show. Winner: Jinder Mahal, to retain the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.
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.
