Wrestling Lockup with Brandon: Royal Rumble 2017 Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE brings you the WWE Royal Rumble recap.

Remember The Rumble was the WWE's motto, as the WWE continued its invasion on San Antonio with the WWE Royal Rumble live at The Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. 30 Men entered this year's Royal Rumble with the winner getting a WWE World or WWE Universal Championship Match at Wrestlemania 33. WWE Universal Champion Kevin Owens defended his title against Roman Reigns in a No DQ Match, with Chris Jericho locked in a shark cage. WWE World Heavyweight Champion AJ Styles defended his title against the WWE franchise John Cena. WWE RAW World Tag Team Champions Sheamus and Cesaro defended their titles against Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson. WWE Cruiserweight Champion Rich Swann defended his title against Neville. WWE RAW Women's Champion Charlotte defended her title against Bayley. Nia Jax battled Sasha Banks in a one on one RAW Women's Division match. Nikki Bella, Naomi and Becky Lynch battled WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Alexa Bliss, Nattie Neidhart and Mickie James in a Smackdown Live Six Woman Tag Team Match.

** Royal Rumble Pre-Show **

- "Six Woman Tag Team Match": Nikki Bella, Becky Lynch and Naomi vs. Alexa Bliss, Nattie Neidhart and Mickie James: The match closes out with Nattie taking control of the match, tags in Alexa and Alexa works over Becky. Mickie lands a cheap shot kick on Becky and Alexa gets a near fall on her. Nattie tags in, mocks Nikki and almost gets rolled up and pinned by Becky. Nattie takes control of the match again, beating down Becky and then tags in Alexa.

Becky finally hot tags Naomi in and Naomi unloads on Alexa and Nattie with punches. Naomi plants a series of kicks on Alexa, plants Alexa on the canvas and gets a near fall as Mickie breaks up the pinfall. Becky takes out Mickie and then Nattie takes out Becky. Nikki hits the ring and spears Nattie as Alexa and Naomi go at it. Naomi plants a kick on Alexa and then hits the split legged moonsault on Alexa to score the pinfall.
Winners: Nikki Bella, Becky Lynch and Naomi, by pinfall.

- "WWE RAW World Tag Team Championship Match": Sheamus and Cesaro (c) vs. Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson: A special stipulation was added to this match for tonight. There would not only be one referee in the ring, but a second referee outside the ring as well. The match closes out with Anderson countering a Cesaro Neutralizer, but Cesaro delivers a 619 followed by a crossbody for a near fall. Anderson hits a spine buster on Cesaro for a near fall. The Club goes for the Magic Killer on Cesaro, but Sheamus breaks it up. Cesaro DDT's Gallows as Sheamus accidentally Brogue Kicks the referee.

The second referee outside the ring slides in and takes over the match. Cesaro delivers the Cesaro Swing on Anderson and then locks in the Sharpshooter submission. Gallows breaks up the submission with a boot to Cesaro. Anderson gets the near fall on Cesaro, but Sheamus breaks up the pinfall. Gallows and Sheamus brawl until Gallows lands a kick on Sheamus. The Club plant Sheamus with the Magic Killer, but Cesaro stops the pinfall. Cesaro gets rolled up with his tights pulled for the pinfall, giving The Club the tag team titles.
Winners: Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, by pinfall, to win the WWE RAW World Tag Team Championship.

- Dean Ambrose is interviewed in the Social Media Lounge this edition. Ambrose answers questions about tonight's Royal Rumble.

- Nia Jax vs. Sasha Banks: The match closes out with Nia completely dominating Sasha and over powering her. Sasha tries to apply the Banks Statement on Nia, but Nia breaks it and goes after Sasha's knee. Nia applies a knee vice and lifts Sasha in the air upside down. Sasha escapes and tries to fight back on Nia. Sasha leaps off the top rope and hits double knees on Nia for a near fall. Nia ends up catching a charging Sasha and hits the pop up Samoan Drop on Sasha and scores the pinfall for the quick victory.
Winner: Nia Jax, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Stephanie McMahon is interviewed about Seth Rollins interrupting NXT Takeover: San Antonio on Saturday night. Stephaine announces that she will address Rollins on RAW for his actions and he's officially banned from the Royal Rumble and The Alamodome tonight.

- Shawn Micheals Promo: San Antonio's own Shawn Micheals heads out to the ring to close out the pre-show. Michaels talks about winning the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at the Royal Rumble in this very building. Michaels tells the fans to have fun and it's time to get the party started. And if you're not down with that he's got two words for ya.........SUCK IT!

** Royal Rumble 2017 **

- "WWE RAW Women's Championship Match": Charlotte (c) vs. Bayley: The match closes out with Charlotte and Bayley double clotheslining each other. Charlotte takes control and chops Bayley into the corner. Bayley makes a comeback and hits a springboard crossbody on Charlotte. Bayley unloads on Charlotte and then drops Charlotte face first. Bayley attempts a top rope move, but comes down and stomps Charlotte as Charlotte tries to escape. Bayley goes to the top rope again and this time hits a flying elbow for a near fall. Charlotte goes after Bayley's knee and works it over. Charlotte applies the Figure Four leglock submission, but Bayley reverses it.

Charlotte is able to turn the submission back in her favor and turns it into the bridged Figure Eight submission. Charlotte grabs the ropes for added leverage, but gets busted by the referee and forced to release the submission. Bayley tries to fight back, but ends up getting hit with the Natural Selection right on the apron. Charlotte covers, scores the pinfall and retains the title.
Winner: Charlotte, by pinfall, to retain the WWE RAW Women's Championship.

- "WWE Universal Championship, No DQ Match": Kevin Owens (c) vs. Roman Reigns: Owens and Jericho both attack Reigns before the match and beat him down. Reigns fights back and finally gets Jericho locked in his shark cage and raised into the air. The match closes out with Reigns hitting a Samoan Drop on Owens through a chair for a near fall. Reigns brings a table into the ring and sets it against the turnbuckle. Reigns hits the Superman Punch on Owens, but Owens kicks out at two and a half. Reigns goes for a spear, but Owens counters and drops Reigns with a Stunner for a near fall. Owens stomps Reigns in the corner and then hits the corner cannonball.

Owens goes to the top rope, but gets hit with a Superman Punch from Reigns sending Owens flying off the top rope and on top of the stacked mountain of chairs at ringside. Reigns sets up Owens and power bombs him through the announcers table. Reigns tosses a near lifeless Owens back into the ring and goes for the spear. Braun Strowman suddenly grabs Reigns and pulls Reigns outside. Strowman sends Reigns into the ring post and then choke slams Reigns on top of another announcers table. Strowman tosses Reigns into the ring and powerslams Reigns right through the table in the corner. Strowman leaves as Owens crawls over, covers Reigns and scores the pinfall to retain the title. 
Winner: Kevin Owens, by pinfall, to retain the WWE Universal Championship.

- "WWE Cruiserweight Championship Match": Rich Swann (c) vs. Neville: The match closes out with Swann hitting a jumping lariat and then a frog splash on Neville for a near fall. Swann goes to the top rope, but gets crotched by Neville. Neville and Swann trade shots on the ropes and end up back on the mat. Swann lands a kick on Neville, but Neville returns with a super kick of his own. Swann gets a near fall roll up on Neville and then nails the Swann Song kick on Neville. Swann covers, but Neville gets his foot on the ropes to break the pinfall. Swann goes to the top rope, but Neville pops up, charges, leaps onto the ropes and superplexes Swann off the ropes for a near fall. Neville immediately traps Swann in a Rings of Saturn submission and forces Swann to tap out to win the title.
Winner: Neville, by submission, to win the WWE Cruiserweight Championship.

- "WWE World Heavyweight Championship Match": AJ Styles (c) vs. John Cena: The match closes out with Cena going for the AA, but Styles counters it into the Calf Crusher submission. Cena escapes and locks Styles in the STF and traps Styles in the middle of the ring. Styles escapes and gets lifted up onto Cena's back for an AA. Styles counters out and Cena begins to trade counters with Styles. Cena locks in a Figure Four leglock submission, but Styles escapes. Cena and Styles trade more counters and reversals until Cena drops Styles. Cena goes for the top rope leg drop, but Styles dodges it, goes for the Styles Clash and hits it for a near fall on Cena.

Cena counters the springboard 450 and hits a Destroyer on Styles for a near fall. Cena sends Styles into the corner and hits a cutter on Styles for another near fall. Cena goes for a Super AA off the ropes, hits it and Styles kicks out again at two and a half. Styles counters another AA and hits the Styles Clash on Cena. Styles goes for the Phenomenal Forearm, but Cena counters it with an AA. Cena hits another AA on Styles and scores the pinfall to become a 16 time World Champion.
Winner: John Cena, by pinfall, to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

- 30 Man Royal Rumble Match:
** Highlights of the Rumble **

- Big Cass and Chris Jericho draw #1 and #2.
- Kalisto debuts in the Royal Rumble at #3.
- Jack Gallagher debuts in the Royal Rumble at #5.
- Braun Strowman eliminates Mojo, Cass, Kalisto and Mark Henry all in a row.
- Sami Zayn comes in at #8 and immediately goes after Strowman renewing their feud.
- Big Show and Strowman go face to face and start trading punches.
- Chris Jericho tries a Code Breaker on Big Show, but gets caught and nailed with the Knockout Punch.

- Strowman and Show try to eliminate each other with Strowman coming our on top and eliminating Show.
- Tye Dillinger makes his main roster debut at #10.
- James Ellsworth makes his Royal Rumble debut at #11.
- Dean Ambrose talks Ellsworth into double teaming Strowman with him. Ambrose lies and watches Ellsworth get destroyed and eliminated by Strowman.
- Baron Corbin makes his Royal Rumble debut.
- Strowman gets a 4 on 1 attack, but eliminates Dillinger. Corbin finally eliminates Strowman.
- The Miz is in at #15 and hits a Skull Crashing Finale on Zayn.
- Corbin hits the Deep Six on The Miz.

- Corbin tries to eliminate Kofi, but eats Trouble in Paradise instead.
- Sheamus is in next and hits a Brogue Kick.
- Cesaro spins Zayn in the Cesaro Swing and then spins Ambrose, then Kofi, then Big E and then Corbin. 
- Bray Wyatt goes for Sister Abigail, but it's countered by Kofi.
- Apollo Crews makes his Royal Rumble debut.
- Sheamus and Cesaro double team Big E and Kofi and eliminate them both. Jericho dumps Sheamus and Cesaro out and they are at ringside.
- Randy Orton is in and hits an RKO on Corbin, Rusev and Zayn.
- Dolph Ziggler is in and goes on a super kick party on everyone.
- Luke Harper is in, eliminates Crews and immediately stares down Orton. Bray tries to keep them in check, but Harper decks Bray. Harper and Orton go at it next as Harper hits a boot on Orton. Harper goes for Sister Abigail on Bray, but Orton saves Bray with an RKO on Harper.
- Brock Lesnar hits the ring next, eliminates Ambrose and Ziggler. Lesnar then takes Rusev, Jericho and Corbin to Suplex City. Lesnar hits F5's on Miz and Orton and stands alone. Enzo hits the ring, but eats a Lesnar clothesline and gets tossed out. Lesnar takes Jericho and Zayn to Suplex City again until Goldberg hits the ring.

- Goldberg immediately spears Lesnar and tosses Lesnar out for the elimination.
- Goldberg hits a Jackhammer on Zayn then double spears Orton and Bray.
- The Undertaker arrives and teams up with Goldberg until Goldberg eventually spears Undertaker.
- Goldberg eliminates Harper and Undertaker eliminates Goldberg.
- Undertaker choke slams Miz and Zayn.

- Roman Reigns enters at #30 and stares down The Undertaker. Reigns counters the choke slam and then Superman Punches Undertaker. Reigns tries a second one but gets choke slammed.
- Undertaker counters an RKO, drops Bray, eliminates Miz and Sami, dumps Reigns on the apron and choke slams Jericho. Reigns sneaks up behind Undertaker and eliminates him to a chorus of boos and bullshit chants from the fans.

** Rumble Conclusion **

The Rumble comes down to Jericho, Bray, Orton and Reigns. Jericho gets tossed onto the apron and then eliminated with a Reigns Superman Punch. Orton hits the draping DDT on Reigns. Reigns comes back and hits Superman Punches on Bray and Orton and then tosses Bray out. Reigns goes for a spear on Orton, but Orton hits a mid air RKO on Reigns. Orton clotheslines Reigns out and wins the Royal Rumble. Orton points at the Wrestlemania 33 sign as the Royal Rumble ends.
Winner: Randy Orton

- Order Of Entrants:
1. Big Cass
2. Chris Jericho
3. Kalisto
4. Mojo Rawley
5. Jack Gallagher
6. Mark Henry
7. Braun Strowman
8. Sami Zayn
9. Big Show
10. Tye Dillinger
11. James Ellsworth
12. Dean Ambrose
13. Baron Corbin
14. Kofi Kingston
15. The Miz
16. Sheamus
17. Big E
18. Rusev
19. Cesaro
20. Xavier Woods
21. Bray Wyatt
22. Apollo Crews
23. Randy Orton
24. Dolph Ziggler
25. Luke Harper
26. Brock Lesnar
27. Enzo Amore
28. Bill Goldberg
29. The Undertaker
30. Roman Reigns

Order of Eliminations:

1. Jack Gallagher (by Mark Henry)
2. Mojo Rawley (by Braun Strowman)
3. Big Cass (by Braun Strowman)
4. Kalisto (by Braun Strowman)
5. Mark Henry (by Braun Strowman)
6. Big Show (by Braun Strowman)
7. James Ellsworth (by Braun Strowman)
8. Tye Dillinger (by Braun Strowman)
9. Braun Strowman (by Baron Corbin)
10. Kofi Kingston (by Sheamus and Cesaro)
11. Xavier Woods (by Sheamus and Cesaro)
12. Big E (by Sheamus and Cesaro)
13. Sheamus (by Chris Jericho)
14. Cesaro (by Chris Jericho)
15. Apollo Crews (by Luke Harper)
16. Dean Ambrose (by Brock Lesnar)
17. Dolph Ziggler (by Brock Lesnar)
18. Enzo Amore (by Brock Lesnar)
19. Brock Lesnar (by Goldberg)
20. Rusev (by Goldberg)
21. Baron Corbin (by The Undertaker)
22. Luke Harper (by Goldberg)
23. Goldberg (by The Undertaker)
24. The Miz (by The Undertaker)
25. Sami Zayn (by The Undertaker)
26. The Undertaker (by Roman Reigns)
27. Chris Jericho (by Roman Reigns)
28. Bray Wyatt (by Roman Reigns)
29. Roman Reigns (by Randy Orton)

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon 11.9.16: Smackdown Live Scotland 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.

Smackdown Live, just like Monday's RAW, was across the pond and live in Glasgow, Scotland this week. Alexa Bliss finally got what was coming to her, as WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Becky Lynch defended the title against Alexa one on one. Breezago battled The Vaudevillains for the last spot on Team Smackdown Live. Naomi battled Nattie Neidhart one on one. Baron Corbin battled Kalisto one on one. Curt Hawkins battled Apollo Crews one on one. In the main event Bray Wyatt, Luke Harper and Randy Orton battled Dean Ambrose, Kane and James Ellsworth in a Six Man Tag Team Match.

*** Smackdown Live ***

- AJ Styles Promo: Styles says Dean Ambrose cheated last week, thanks to James Ellsworth and now Styles owes Ambrose a title shot. Styles has been told by the higher ups to stay away from Ambrose until WWE Survivor Series, so they're on the same page for Team Smackdown Live. Styles says that he is a true leader and will lead Team Smackdown Live, as they whoop Team RAW. Baron Corbin interrupts and Styles says he was going to introduce him, but only if he delivers at Survivor Series. Corbin says he'll deliver, but not for Styles' team. The Wyatt Family and Randy Orton are out next, followed by Dean Ambrose and James Ellsworth. Styles is livid when he sees Ellsworth and demands that he gets escorted out. Ambrose says if he has a problem with Ellsworth than he has a problem with Glasgow, because they want to see Ellsworth. Baron Corbin walks out disgusted as Shane McMahon arrives. Shane makes Ellsworth the team mascot, cause Team Smackdown Live need to harness Ellsworth's passion to beat Team RAW. Shane then makes a Six Man Tag Team Match for later putting Dean Ambrose, Baron Corbin and James Ellsworth against Bray Wyatt, Luke Harper and Randy Orton.

- Backstage, WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Becky Lynch is shown warming up for her title defense tonight against Alexa Bliss.

- Backstage, Baron Corbin refuses to fight in the main event tonight. Shane McMahon says it's fine, but now he'll face Kalisto than in a one on one match.

- "Winners Get Last Spot On Team Smackdown Live": Tyler Breeze and Fandango vs. The Vaudevillains: The match closes out with Fandango hitting a Falcon Arrow on Aiden English and scoring the quick pinfall.
Winners: Breezago, by pinfall, earning the last spot on Team Smackdown Live.

- Naomi vs. Nattie Neidhart: This match was signed after both ladies had a social media argument on Twitter earlier in the day. Team Smackdown Live captain Nikki Bella is on commentary. The match closes out with Carmella showing up at ringside and taunting Nikki Bella. Nikki and Carmella are about to fight when Nattie separates both ladies, blowing her coach whistle. Nikki shoves Nattie down and then punches Carmella. Nattie gets back in the ring and gets rolled up and pinned by Naomi.
Winner: Naomi, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Alexa Bliss is shown warming up for her title match against WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion Becky Lynch tonight.

- Backstage, James Ellsworth tells Dean Ambrose that they can win tonight without Baron Corbin. Daniel Bryan appears and informs them that Kane will replace Corbin tonight. Kane appears and tells Ellsworth to not tag in tonight.

- Baron Corbin vs. Kalisto: Corbin attacks Kalisto from behind on his way to the ring. Corbin ends up slipping on the apron and injuring his knee. Kalisto attacks Corbin's knee and drop kicks it into the steel steps. WWE officials try to hold back Kalisto, but he lands a frog splash right on top of Corbin's knee before finally leaving.
Winner: No Contest

- Backstage, Shane McMahon and Daniel Bryan announce that due to his knee injury, Baron Corbin is off of Team Smackdown Live. Shane says a replacement will be announced by the end of the night. 

- "WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship Match": Becky Lynch (c) vs. Alexa Bliss: The match closes out with  Becky catching Alexa and trapping her in the Dis-Arm-Her submission. Alexa fights to escape and reaches for the ropes. Alexa can't reach the ropes and ends up tapping out, however, replays show that Alexa's feet were under the ropes and the referee missed it, which should have broken the submission and the match should have continued. Becky celebrates her controversial victory.
Winner: Becky Lynch, by submission, to retain the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship.

- Backstage, The Miz isn't happy that Dolph Ziggler is defending the WWE Intercontinental Championship against a RAW Superstar. Daniel Bryan announces that Kalisto will face Brian Kendrick for RAW's WWE Cruiserweight Championship. Bryan also promises Miz a rematch for the WWE Intercontinental Championship next week on Smackdown's 900th episode.

- Apollo Crews vs. Curt Hawkins: The match closes out with Crews hitting a drop kick and a clothesline on Hawkins. Crews leaps off the top rope for a cross body, but Hawkins misses. Hawkins rolls up Crews from behind and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Curt Hawkins, by pinfall. 

- Backstage, Dolph Ziggler says he'll defeat The Miz next week and go on to beat Sami Zayn at WWE Survivor Series.

- "Six Man Tag Team Match": Dean Ambrose, Kane and James Ellsworth vs. Bray Wyatt, Luke Harper and Randy Orton: The match closes out with Ambrose getting the hot tag, unloads on Bray and Harper and then suicide dives onto Orton and Bray. Ambrose counters Sister Abigail, but both Bray and Ambrose double clothesline each other. Ellsworth tags himself in and goes for No Chin Music. Bray counters, hits Ellsworth with Sister Abigail and scores the pinfall. After the match, Team Smackdown Live all argue with each other until Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon hit the ring to try to calm everyone down. Daniel Bryan announces that Shane McMahon will be Baron Corbin's replacement on Team Smackdown Live at WWE Survivor Series to end the show.
Winners: The Wyatt Family and Randy Orton, by pinfall. 

WLWB Special: My Top 5 AJ Styles WWE Moments In 2016

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

At this time last year if you would have came to me and told me that AJ Styles would be the WWE World Heavyweight Champion in October of 2016, I probably would have laughed in your face. I would have laughed in your face and told you why would AJ Styles want to come to the WWE, when all they would have done is screw up his whole character. Well.......I guess I was wrong.

Since making his WWE debut at the Royal Rumble, in January of 2016, AJ Styles' WWE career has been nothing but phenomenal! (pun intended)

For the past 10 months, AJ Styles' name has been involved in a lot of hot feuds in the WWE and has scratched off a lot of matches on the fan's dream match list. From Chris Jericho, to Roman Reigns, to John Cena, to Dolph Ziggler, to Dean Ambrose, AJ Styles has had an amazing 10 months in the WWE. Also during those 10 months, Styles formed a tag team with Chris Jericho, formed the WWE's version of The Bullet Club with Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson, was the first draft pick for Smackdown Live, turned heel and defeated Dean Ambrose to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship.

Styles, who's closing in on the age of 40 is still able to pull off some of the most high-risk maneuvers that have made him what he is today is a wrestler. Styles is not only dominating the WWE as a wrestler, but he is also dominating the WWE at the merchandise counter too, as he continues to be one of the top go to shirts and apparel that the fans want in the company right now.

I myself have to admit that I was quite surprised at how well Styles' career has taken off in the WWE. Why? Well let's just say the WWE isn't very shy when it comes to ruining careers of those that weren't homegrown WWE Superstars. Usually if you were not one of Vince McMahon's own creations, you would have a very tough time making it in the WWE. But thankfully with Styles, it appears that the WWE isn't so worried about where Styles came from, they're more worried about what Styles is doing for their company. Which at this time, is making Smackdown Live one of the hottest shows on TV.

*** My Personal Favorite Top 5 AJ Styles Moments In The WWE ***:

#5: Styles Arrives And Enters At #3 In The Royal Rumble: All throughout the end of 2015, rumors were circulating on whether or not AJ Styles was going to sign with WWE or go back to TNA, as Styles was one of TNA's Originals. Styles made his intentions clear about where he was going during one of his very last independent wrestling matches. Styles mentioned to the crowd that he knew of a "Rumble" coming up that he wouldn't mind entering. Styles did in fact show up at the Royal Rumble entering at #3 and lasted 28 minutes before getting eliminated by Kevin Owens, making Styles' debut in the WWE official.

#4: AJ Styles vs. Chris Jericho (Wrestlemania 32): Styles and Jericho had a great feud in the winter and spring of 2016. Styles and Jericho would trade wins with each other and then eventually form a tag team together called Y2AJ, after Jericho stated that he had nothing but respect for Styles. That tag team didn't last very long, however, as Jericho and Styles came up short winning the WWE World Tag Team Championship against The New Day, which led to Jericho turning on Styles. Jericho and Styles would go on to face each other at Wrestlemania 32, after Jericho showed his turncoat ways. Although Styles came up losing against Jericho, it was still great to see two of wrestling's best perform on the greatest stage of them all.

#3: AJ Styles vs. Roman Reigns (Extreme Rules): Right after Styles' feud with Chris Jericho, the WWE realized that they had a diamond in the rough with Styles, as Styles was becoming one of their top selling memorabilia items at the merchandise calendar. The WWE jumped on this opportunity and immediately made Styles the number one contender to the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Styles would again come up short in his quest to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship, but Styles and Reigns put on one heck of an entertaining Extreme Rules Match at WWE Extreme Rules.

#2: AJ Styles vs. John Cena (Summer Slam): The WWE franchise John Cena facing one of TNA's Originals AJ Styles, was definitely a fantasy dream match on every wrestling fan's list. Styles went into this match already having one pinfall victory over Cena, but there was no better match than this to have on the WWE's second-biggest pay per view of the year. Styles now a full-blown heel, wanted nothing more than to take out the WWE's face, John Cena. In a very fast-paced and exciting match, Styles would hit the Styles Clash and the Phenomenal Forearm on Cena and pin John Cena clean in the middle of the ring.

#1: AJ Styles vs. Dean Ambrose (Backlash): This leads us to my number one favorite AJ Styles moment of 2016. AJ Styles, after only being in the WWE for 9 months, defeated Dean Ambrose at WWE Backlash to win his first WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Styles may have cheated to win the championship, but Styles has proven that it doesn't matter what promotion you come from when you sign with the WWE. If you have the charisma, the mic skills, the wrestling ability, the backstage locker room leader personality and you appreciate what the McMahon Family have done for the wrestling business, you can become a top name superstar in the WWE.

So there you have it that is my top 5 favorite AJ Styles moments of 2016. Thank you for checking out and reading this blog and please follow me @B_Rock1978 and also please follow @TripleThreatCLE for all of your sports, wrestling and entertainment needs.

WWE No Mercy Preview #NoMercy

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE, brings you the WWE No Mercy Preview.

WWE No Mercy takes place live at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento, California. This will be the 12th No Mercy event in its existence, and the last No Mercy event to take place was back in 2008. As usual the event will take place live on the WWE Network, but if you can't catch the show, check out Triple Threat CLE on Monday afternoon and I will have your WWE No Mercy recap.

- "WWE World Heavyweight Championship, Triple Threat Match": AJ Styles (c) vs. Dean Ambrose vs. John Cena: AJ Styles steps into the ring tonight to defend his WWE World Heavyweight Championship against former champion Dean Ambrose and former 15 time world champion John Cena. All three men have a pretty good history with each other the past couple months. Styles defeated John Cena two months ago at WWE Summer Slam and defeated Dean Ambrose last month at WWE Backlash to win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship. Immediately after losing the title, Dean Ambrose invoked his automatic rematch clause and demanded it at WWE No Mercy. It wouldn't be that easy for Ambrose, however, as WWE Smackdown Live commissioner Shane McMahon placed former 15 time world champion John Cena in the match as well, making it a triple threat match. John Cena has made it his mission to break Ric Flair's 16 time World Championship record, before he retires. Can AJ Styles retain his championship against the resident lunatic and the WWE franchise? Can Ambrose get revenge on Styles for cheating his way to the championship at WWE Backlash? Can John Cena claim the championship and move one step closer to breaking Ric Flair's record?

- "WWE Intercontinental Championship, Title vs. Ziggler's Career Match": The Miz (c) vs. Dolph Ziggler: Last month at WWE Backlash, The Miz successfully defended and defeated Dolph Ziggler to retain his WWE Intercontinental Championship. The Miz, however, did it in his usual cheating ways, as his wife Maryse sprayed hairspray in Ziggler's face. Ziggler was automatically given a rematch on Smackdown Live due to the incident a few weeks later. Ziggler, however, suffered the same fate yet again, as The Miz sprayed something in Ziggler's eyes to retain the championship. The Miz would go on a verbal tirade about Ziggler, calling him a loser that can never get the job done, secure that one big win and Miz would never give him another title shot unless Ziggler put his career on the line. After taking a moment to think about it, Ziggler agreed to the career stipulation because that's how badly he wants another shot at beating The Miz and taking his championship. Can Ziggler finally defeat The Miz and win the championship? Will The Miz defeat Ziggler, retain the championship and take Ziggler's career? Two former Clevelander's battle it out tonight!

- "WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship Match": Heath Slater and Rhyno (c) vs. The Usos: Last month at WWE Backlash, Heath Slater and Rhyno defeated The Usos in the Finals of the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship Tournament. With the win, Slater not only became a champion, but he also earned himself a WWE Smackdown Live contract. The Usos, who turned heel last month and now have a disrespectful attitude towards others, look to get revenge on Slater and Rhyno for winning the titles last month. The Usos became the number one contenders after defeating American Alpha and earned a shot and Heath Slater and Rhyno at WWE No Mercy. Can Heath Slater and Rhyno successfully retain their WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championship? Will The Usos defeat Slater and Rhyno and claim the WWE Smackdown Live World Tag Team Championships for themselves?

- "WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship Match": Becky Lynch (c) vs. Alexa Bliss: Last month at WWE Backlash, Becky Lynch defeated Alexa Bliss, Carmella, Naomi, Nattie Neidhart, and Nikki Bella in a Six Pack Elimination Challenge to become the first ever WWE Smackdown Live Women's Champion. Becky was in need of her first challenger for WWE No Mercy and she received it a few weeks leading up to the pay per view. Alexa Bliss would go on to defeat Carmella, Nikki Bella, Nattie Neidhart and Naomi in a Fatal Five Way Match, to become the #1 contender to the title. Alexa then proved that she wasn't playing games and was taking this title shot seriously by attacking Becky Lynch during their contract signing. Can Becky Lynch retain her WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship in her first title defense? Can the up and comer from NXT, Alexa Bliss, pull off the upset victory and claim her first WWE Championship?

- Randy Orton vs. Bray Wyatt: After taking his Summer Slam loss to Brock Lesnar, Randy Orton became the recent target for Bray Wyatt. Bray claimed that Orton was now a shell of his former self after taking that Brock Lesnar beating at Summer Slam. Orton and Bray were set to face each other at WWE Backlash, however, Bray attacked Orton backstage before their match, causing Orton to be unable to compete in the match later in the pay per view. Orton and Bray were given a rematch against each other at WWE No Mercy. In weeks leading up to WWE No Mercy, Randy Orton and Bray Wyatt began to play mind games with each other and played a game of cat and mouse in the backstage area. Will Bray Wyatt defeat Randy Orton and prove that he in fact is a shell of his former self? Will Randy Orton finally take out the sadistic Bray Wyatt and prove that he is as dangerous as he has always been?

- Nikki Bella vs. Carmella: Carmella has been on a mission since coming up to the main roster from NXT. Carmella has been targeting the former longest reigning WWE Divas Champion and has been looking to put Nikki Bella back on the DL. Weeks leading up to WWE No Mercy, Carmella continuously attacked Nikki Bella from behind during her matches. A match between the two was finally signed for WWE No Mercy 5 days before the pay per view. Can Carmella finish what she started and put Nikki Bella out of wrestling for ever? Will Nikki Bella stop Carmella and prove to her why she was the longest reigning WWE Divas Champion?

- Curt Hawkins vs. ????: Curt Hawkins will make his official WWE debut tonight against a mystery opponent.

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon 10.5.16: Smackdown Live Recap

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

Wrestling Lockup with Brandon, brought to you by Triple Threat CLE, is here with your Smackdown Live Recap Edition.  

This week's Smackdown Live took place in San Diego, California and served its go home show to this Sunday's WWE No Mercy pay per view. Smackdown Live kicked off this week with Bray Wyatt battling Kane one on one. Nikki Bella battled #1 contender to the WWE Smackdown Live Women's Championship Alexa Bliss in a one on one match. After a little bit of interference, Daniel Bryan makes Nikki Bella and Becky Lynch face Alexa Bliss and Carmella in tag team action. The Vaudevillains battled The Hype Bros in tag team action. Miz returned with Miz TV with his special guest Dolph Ziggler. Jey Uso battled Jason Jordan in a one on one match. Baron Corbin battled Jack Swagger in a one on one match. AJ Styles, John Cena and Dean Ambrose meet for a face to face in the ring to close out this week's show.

*** Smackdown Live ***

- Bray Wyatt vs. Kane: The match closes out with Randy Orton appearing on the TitanTron upside down. Orton says he sees things now the way Bray does, but at WWE No Mercy Orton will turn Bray's world right side up. Kane goes for a choke slam on Bray during the distraction, but Bray blocks it. Kane unloads a punch instead that sends Bray to the floor. Bray refuses to get back in the ring and takes the count out loss.
Winner: Kane, by Countout

- Backstage, Baron Corbin says that Jack Swagger thinks he's going to make an impression on Smackdown Live. Corbin says he'll drop Swagger right where he stands. Swagger suddenly appears and challenges Corbin to a fight. Corbin says he only fights in the ring. Swagger says he's finding Daniel Bryan to make it official.

- Backstage, Bray Wyatt is searching for Randy Orton and says that at WWE No Mercy Orton's time is coming.

- Nikki Bella vs. Alexa Bliss: Carmella sits in on commentary for this match. The match closes out with Nikki and Alexa fighting on the floor, with Carmella talking trash in the background. Nikki drops Carmella with a punch and goes back after Alexa. Nikki goes for the TKO on Alexa, but Carmella hits the ring and attacks Nikki, causing a DQ. After the game, Alexa and Carmella double team Nikki in a two on one beat down. Becky Lynch hits the ring to make the save and helps Nikki clear the ring.
Winner: Nikki Bella, by DQ.

- Nikki Bella and Becky Lynch vs. Alexa Bliss and Carmella: After Carmella and Becky Lynch get involved, Daniel Bryan makes this tag team match official. The match closes out with Becky hitting two exploder suplexes on Alexa. Alexa rolls outside where Becky hits a flying forearm off the apron. Carmella lands a super kick on Becky, but Carmella walks into a spear by Nikki Bella. Nikki chases Carmella backstage as Alexa hits Twisted Bliss on Becky to score the pinfall.
Winners: Alexa Bliss and Carmella, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Bray Wyatt finds his rocking chair with red smoke in the background. Orton traps Bray in the room and asks how does it feel to now be the hunted. Bray bangs on the door and calls out Orton.

- The Vaudevillains vs. The Hype Bros.: The match closes out with Ryder dodging an English knee drop, gets taken down by a Gotch sunset flip, but is able to tag Mojo. Mojo unloads clotheslines on Gotch, chasing Gotch from the ring. Ryder and Mojo hit the Hype Ryder on English and score the pinfall.
Winners: The Hype Bros, by pinfall.

- Miz TV with Special Guest Dolph Ziggler: Miz says that this is a special Miz TV because this will be the last time we see Dolph Ziggler. Miz plays a highlight video of Ziggler called “WWE 24, The Success of a Failure". Ziggler finally interrupts, calls Miz an ass face and says that every ten bad moments he's had there would be one moment a fan would encourage him to continue. Reasons like Make A Wish and winning the World Heavyweight Championship are reasons why he couldn't walk away. Ziggler says he's winning the WWE Intercontinental Championship and Miz isn't taking his career. Miz disagrees and guarantees he's taking Ziggler's career, but he has something to cheer up Ziggler.

Miz introduces Mike Mondo and Kenny Dykstra from Dolph Ziggler's old Spirit Squad faction. Mondo and Dykstra do a cheer calling Ziggler a loser. Miz says that after Sunday, Ziggler can reunite with the Spirit Squad, do his podcast and charge $5 for his autograph. Mondo and Dykstra attack Ziggler, but Ziggler lays both of them out with super kicks. Miz goes for the Skull Crushing Finale on Ziggler, but Ziggler counters out. Miz escapes and retreats from the ring.

- Jey Uso vs. Jason Jordan: The match closes out with Jey landing forearms on Jordan. Jordan sends Jey into the turnbuckles and then rolls Jey up for the pinfall. After the match, Jimmy sends Gable into the steel steps. Jey hits a running clothesline on Jordan. The Usos get Jordan in position for their Tequila Sunrise move, looking to break Jordan's leg. Heath Slater and Rhyno hit the ring and make the save.
Winner: Jason Jordan, by pinfall.

- Backstage, Bray Wyatt somehow escapes the room Randy Orton has him trapped in. Orton tosses Bray's rocking chair in anger.

- Jack Swagger vs. Baron Corbin: The match closes out with Swagger hitting a corner clothesline and a side slam on Corbin. Swagger misses the Swagger Bomb as Corbin counters with a boot. Swagger traps Corbin in the Patriot Lock submission and Corbin taps out. After the match, Corbin flips out, tosses the steel ring steps and clears everything off the announcers table.
Winner: Jack Swagger, by submission.

- AJ Styles, John Cena and Dean Ambrose Face To Face: Styles says that he had the opportunity to defeat Cena at Summer Slam and he did. He had the opportunity to defeat Ambrose and win the WWE World Heavyweight Championship and he did. Ambrose interrupts and calls Styles the clown that runs the town. Ambrose respects Styles for what he's done in other promotions, but what he did to win the World Title was low. Before Cena can speak, Styles tells him to shut up and never compare himself to Ric Flair and chasing Flair's world title record ever again. Before Cena can speak again, Ambrose tells him to shut up. Ambrose says Cena is going to claim to have been screwed over, enjoys holding others down and has had less matches this year than Ambrose. Ambrose insults Cena some more until Cena finally tackles and ground and pounds Ambrose. Cena plants Styles with an AA, but Styles catches Cena celebrating and attacks from behind. Styles hits an enziguri and then the Phenomenal Forearm on Cena. Ambrose attacks Styles from behind and lays him out with Dirty Deeds to end the show.