Weekend 3 Count 7/30/17

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

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.

~~~ BLOCK A HIGHLIGHTS ~~~

- Zack Sabre Jr. defeated YOSHI-HASHI.
- Hiroshi Tanahashi defeated Yuji Nagata.
- Bad Luck Fale defeated Tetsuya Naito.
- Kota Ibushi defeated Tomohiro Ishii.
- Togi Makabe defeated Hirooki Goto.

* BLOCK A SCORES AFTER NIGHT #5 *

- Hirooki Goto 4
- Tetsuya Naito 4
- Zack Sabre Jr. 4
- Hiroshi Tanahashi 4
- Bad Luck Fale 4
- Kota Ibushi 4
- YOSHI-HASHI 2
- Tomohiro Ishii 2
- Togi Makabe 2
- Yuji Nagata 0

** G1 Climax Night #6 Highlights **

~~~ BLOCK B HIGHLIGHTS ~~~

- Michael Elgin defeated Satoshi Kojima.
- EVIL defeated Tama Tonga.
- Minoru Suzuki defeated Juice Robinson.
- Kenny Omega defeated Toru Yano.
- Kazuchika Okada defeated SANADA.

* BLOCK B SCORES AFTER NIGHT #6 *

- Kazuchika Okada 6
- Kenny Omega 6
- EVIL 4
- Minoru Suzuki 4
- Juice Robinson 2
- SANADA 2
- Tama Tonga 2
- Toru Yano 2
- Michael Elgin 2
- Satoshi Kojima 0

** G1 Climax Night #7 Highlights **

~~~ BLOCK A HIGHLIGHTS ~~~

- Tomohiro Ishii defeated YOSHI-HASHI.
- Zack Sabre Jr. defeated Bad Luck Fale.
- Togi Makabe defeated Kota Ibushi.
- Tetsuya Naito defeated Yuji Nagata.
- Hiroshi Tanahashi defeated Hirooki Goto.

* BLOCK A SCORES AFTER NIGHT #7 *

- Tetsuya Naito 6
- Zack Sabre Jr. 6
- Hiroshi Tanahashi 6
- Hirooki Goto 4
- Bad Luck Fale 4
- Kota Ibushi 4
- Tomohiro Ishii 4
- Togi Makabe 4
- YOSHI-HASHI 2
- Yuji Nagata 0

** G1 Climax Night #8 Highlights **

~~~ BLOCK B HIGHLIGHTS ~~~

- Tama Tonga defeated Juice Robinson
- SANADA defeated Toru Yano
- EVIL defeated Minoru Suzuki
- Kazuchika Okada defeated Satoshi Kojima
- Michael Elgin defeated Kenny Omega

* BLOCK B SCORES AFTER NIGHT #8 *

- Kazuchika Okada 8
- Kenny Omega 6
- EVIL 6
- Minoru Suzuki 4
- Michael Elgin 4
- SANADA 4
- Tama Tonga 4
- Juice Robinson 2
- Toru Yano 2
- Satoshi Kojima 0

** G1 Climax Night #9 Highlights **

~~~ BLOCK A HIGHLIGHTS ~~~

- Togi Makabe defeated Yuji Nagata
- Bad Luck Fale defeated Kota Ibushi
- Hirooki Goto defeated Zack Sabre Jr.
- Hiroshi Tanahashi defeated YOSHI-HASHI
- Tomohiro Ishii defeated Tetsuya Naito

* BLOCK A SCORES AFTER NIGHT #9 *

- Hiroshi Tanahashi 8
- Tetsuya Naito 6
- Zack Sabre Jr. 6
- Hirooki Goto 6
- Bad Luck Fale 6
- Tomohiro Ishii 6
- Togi Makabe 6
- Kota Ibushi 4
- YOSHI-HASHI 2
- Yuji Nagata 0

*** WrestleCircus ***

** 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!

WWE Battleground Preview

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Weekend 3 Count 4/23/17

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

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, Impact Wrestling, ROH, Lucha Underground, NJPW, House of Hardcore, ICW, CZW, FIP, AAW, EVOLVE, 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

*** WWE ***

- The New Day On Hold: WWE announced this week that there may be a possibility that The New Day are left off of TV until Kofi Kingston returns from rehab after having leg surgery two weeks ago. The New Day were drafted to Smackdown Live during last week's Superstar Shakeup Draft. WWE feels it would be better to debut them on Smackdown Live when all three are at 100%. There is no current time table for when Kofi will return to action.

- Plans For The Hardys: Sources are saying that once the whole issue with Impact Wrestling ends over the Broken Matt Hardy gimmick, Matt will return to his Broken Matt Hardy gimmick in the WWE. Sources have also said that Jeff Hardy will remain in his Charismatic Enigma gimmick that he is currently gone back too. Sources have said that both Hardy's will have pushes coming very soon.

- Dash Wilder Injured: WWE announced this week that Dash Wilder of The Revival suffered a fractured jaw during an NXT Live event last Friday night. The injury will sideline Wilder for at least two months.

- Former Impact Knockout Possibly Signing: WWE recently announced that former Impact Knockout and Impact Knockout Champion Jade is currently in Orlando at the WWE/NXT Performance Center. Rumors are stating that Jade will be apart of the 32 Women Tournament taking place this summer.

- Mike and Maria Bennett Are Coming To The WWE: According to SportsKeeda.com, Mike Bennett and his wife Maria Kanellis Bennett are set for a WWE debut. This will be a return to the company for Maria, but will be Mike Bennett's first arrival. Mike and Maria are reportedly being rumored to be headed to WWE's Smackdown Live brand.

** 205 Live Recap **
This week's main event saw Austin Aries look to get revenge on TJ Perkins after Perkins turned on Aries last week. The love triangle between Noam Dar, Alicia Fox and Rich Swann finally comes to a close.

1.) Akira Tozawa vs. Tony Nese: The match closes out with Brian Kendrick showing up at ringside. Nese sends Tozawa into the ropes, lying over the middle rope. Kendrick jumps up on the apron, but the referee immediately catches Kendrick and tells him to back off. Nese gets distracted by Kendrick as well and tells Kendrick to get down. Tozawa sneaks up on Nese and gets the surprise roll up pinfall. After the match, Kendrick tries to apologize, but gets decked by Nese.
Winner: Akira Tozawa, by pinfall.

2.) Rich Swann Promo: Swann says things with Noam Dar and Alicia Fox have gone on long enough, it's time to finish this up. Swann calls out Alicia and Noam Dar follows. Swann says that Alicia needs to make a decision now on who she likes. Alicia rips on Dar, saying that he's annoying, his cologne stinks and hates how he says her name. Alicia kicks Dar to the curb and tells him they're through. Swann tells Alicia that all the gifts he sent her were straight from the heart and now she gets what she really deserves. As Alicia moves in for a kiss, Swann cuts her off and asks her if she remembers Cedric Alexander and how she broke his heart. Swann says the whole world now knows what a piece of trash Alicia is, who moves on from one guy to the next that can provide the most for her and her only. Swann dumps Alicia and leaves her angry.

3.) Mustafa Ali vs. Ariya Daivari: The match closes out with both men trading strikes on the top rope. Ali back flips off and then plants a drop kick on Daivari as he jumps down. Ali goes for the 450 Splash, but Drew Gulak suddenly interrupts the match, sounding off sirens on a bullhorn and picketing with a picket sign against high flyers. Daivari hits a Hammerlock Lariat on Ali during the distraction and scores the pinfall. After the match, Gulak says he'll stop at nothing to make 205 Live better.
Winner: Ariya Daivari, by pinfall.

4.) Austin Aries vs. TJ Perkins: The match closes out with Aries getting the Last Chancery submission applied on Perkins, but can't cinch it in completely due to a leg injury caused by Perkins. Perkins escapes to the floor, but Aries follows and tosses Perkins back into the ring. Perkins lands a kick to the face of Aries, going after his past eye injury. Aries counters the Detonation Kick and hits the Discus Fivearm to score the pinfall. After the match, Neville hits the ring and attacks Aries. Aries comes back and traps Neville in the Last Chancery submission, but Perkins attacks Aries. Perkins hits the Detonation Kick on Aries and then Neville locks Aries in the Rings of Saturn submission.
Winner: Austin Aries, by pinfall.

*** NXT ***

- Ember Moon Injured: It was announced that Ember Moon may have suffered an injury this week during the NXT TV tapings. The match that Moon was involved in seen her attempt a suicide dive. Moon struck the barricade shoulder first on the way out and was unable to continue. Moon was seen crying and had to be helped to the back by referees and medics.

- Dan Matha Debuts: This past week in NXT, former Canadian Football League player, Dan Matha, made his WWE NXT live event debut in Atlanta. Matha lost to Kassius Ohno and received the "Who Are You?" chants from the NXT crowd.

- NXT Takeover: Chicago Updated Card: As of right now the following will take place at NXT Takeover: Chicago in May.

** "NXT World Championship Match": Bobby Roode (c) vs. Hideo Itami

** "NXT World Tag Team Championship, Ladder Match": Authors of Pain (c) vs. #DIY

** "NXT Women's Championship, Fatal Four Way Match": Asuka (c) vs. Ember Moon vs. Nikki Cross vs. Ruby Riot

*** Impact Wrestling ***

** Impact TV Recap **
This week's show saw "The Cowboy" James Storm battle Bobby Lashley, with Lashley's Impact World Heavyweight Championship on the line. Two past Impact wrestlers made their surprising returns and competed in a Six Way Dance for the X Division Championship. And news about Jeff Jarrett's Global Force Wrestling were announced.

Full Show Highlights:

1.) LAX vs. Jake Holmes and Joe Coleman: The match closes out with Holmes and Coleman dominated by LAX. LAX hit the Street Sweeper on Holmes and score the pinfall. After the match, Konnan grabs a microphone and hypes up LAX as the best tag team in Impact right now. The Decay interrupt and brawl with LAX until Impact Security have to break both teams up.
Winners: LAX, by pinfall.

2.) Karen Jarrett Promo: Karen officially announces that Jeff Jarrett's Global Force Wrestling has merged with Impact Wrestling as a whole. Karen hypes up tonight's show and then gets interrupted by a returning Sonjay Dutt. Dutt says it's great to be back, runs down his history in the X Division and asks to be included in tonight's title match. Andrew Everett interrupts, says he respects Dutt, but wants Trevor Lee one on one. Shane Helms and Trevor Lee interrupt, Helms calls Dutt a failure and no one asked for Dutt to come back. Bruce Prichard interrupts next, tells Helms and Lee they don't run things around here and then announces a Six Way Battle tonight for the X Division Championship. Dutt and Everett brawl with Helms and Lee, chasing them from the ring.

3.) A video is shown to hype up the future return of Crimson to Impact Wrestling, showing his background in life and in wrestling.

4.) "Impact Knockout's Championship Match": Rosemary (c) vs. ODB: The match closes out with Rosemary hitting a running forearm and landing a suplex on ODB. Rosemary misses a top rope senton splash and then gets planted by an ODB fallaway slam. ODB with a Thesz Press and then corners Rosemary. Rosemary lands a kick on ODB and hits the surprise Red Wedding to score the pinfall to retain her title.
Winner: Rosemary, by pinfall, to retain the Impact Knockout's Championship.

5.) Backstage, Bruce Prichard and Karen Jarrett announce Andrew Everett, Trevor Lee, Suicide and Sonjay Dutt as four of the six men in the X Division Championship Match. Before the other two are announced, Sienna interrupts Karen, mocks all the GFW women's talent backstage and demands to know where the GFW Women's Champion Christina Von Eerie is. Karen promises Sienna that she's here and Sienna better be ready for her.

6.) Kongo Kong vs. Chris Silvio: Kong makes quick work of Silvio, hitting a top rope splash for the pinfall.
Winner: Kongo Kong, by pinfall.

7.) Backstage, James Storm cuts a promo on how he's winning the Impact World Championship tonight. A video is then shown of Alberto El Patron stating that he hopes Bobby Lashley wins tonight so he can finish what he started with Lashley last month.

8.) Backstage, GFW World Champion Magnus runs down his history with Impact Wrestling and feels that he deserves a world title shot first before Alberto El Patron.

9.) "Impact World Heavyweight Championship Match": Bobby Lashley (c) vs. James Storm: Before the match, Josh Mathews showed up with Bobby Lashley, sat in at commentary even though he's been banned and mocked Jeremy Borash and The Pope for their embarrassing commentary. The match closes out with Ethan Carter showing up to watch the match at ringside. Lashley ducks The Last Call, but gets dropped with the Eye of the Storm for a near fall. Lashley hits The Dominator on Storm and gets a near fall of his own. Lashley grabs a steel chair, swings at Storm, misses and hits himself in the face on the rope richocet. Both men fight into the corner where referee Brian Hebner accidentally gets knocked out. Storm hits The Last Call, but there's no referee to count the pinfall. Storm grabs a beer bottle to use on Lashley, but EC3 grabs it away from Storm and busts the bottle over Storm's head. Lashley hits the spear, laying out Storm and scores the pinfall as Brian Hebner comes to.
Winner: Bobby Lashley, by pinfall, to retain the Impact World Heavyweight Championship.

10.) Backstage, Dutch Mantell announces that the fifth wrestler in the Six Way Battle for the X Division Championship will be Dezmond Xavier. As for the sixth.....its a surprise.

11.) A video is shown of Chris Adonis attacking Moose at a Border City Wrestling show in Canada. Moose says that since he won the Impact Grand Championship he's had a target on his back. Chris Adonis interrupts and says he's not coming after him, but he knows someone else that is. Davey Richards suddenly attacks Moose from behind and leaves Moose laid out.

12.) "Impact X Division Championship, Six Way Battle Match": Trevor Lee (c) vs. Andrew Everett vs. Suicide vs. Sonjay Dutt vs. Dezmomd Xavier vs. ????: The surprise sixth entrant is announced as........Low Ki. The match closes out with all six men brawling. Suicide connects with a suicide dive onto the floor. Everett follows and hits a Shooting Star Press on the floor, taking everyone out. Everett and Xavier battle on the ropes which ends with Everett hitting two Frankendrivers on Xavier and Lee. Everett goes back up top, but gets cut off by Low Ki. Low Ki delivers a huge kick that sends Everett flying off the top rope. Low Ki climbs the ropes, hits the flying double foot stomp on Lee and scores the pinfall to win the title. After the match, Low Ki celebrates with the title as Jeremy Borash knocks down Josh Mathews and The Pope walks out at the commentary table.
Winner: Low Ki, by pinfall, to win the Impact X Division Championship.

- Alberto El Patron Officially Signs With Impact: Although Alberto El Patron has been wrestling with Impact since March, apparently it was a pay by date agreement. Impact Wrestling has officially announced this week that Alberto El Patron has now signed a contract and is officially apart of Impact Wrestling.

- Jeff Jarrett's Global Force Wrestling Merges With Impact: Impact Wrestling announced this week that Impact President Jeff Jarrett has merged his Global Force Wrestling promotion with Impact Wrestling. This was obviously a no brainer as Global Force Wrestling hasn't had much going on in the wrestling world for the past 6 to 8 months.

- Impact Makes A Deal With AAA Mexico: Jeff Jarrett and Impact Wrestling finalized their contract this week to allow both parties to use each other's talent for upcoming shows. The only catch for AAA Mexico wrestlers is they are not allowed to use the gimmicks they use in Lucha Underground if they are under contract with LU as well.

- Crazzy Steve Done With Impact: Former Impact Tag Team Champion Crazzy Steve appears to be done with the company after appearing at tonight's Impact Wrestling television taping. Steve, who made his Impact Wrestling debut in April of 2014 as part of The Menagerie, thanked Impact on his Twitter.

*** Ring Of Honor ***

** ROH TV Recap **
This week's show held the Vegas Wildcard Random Wrestler 8 Man Tag Team Match. The winning team will then earn the right to compete in a Fatal Four Way Match at a later date to determine a new #1 Contender to the ROH World Heavyweight Championship.

1.) Chris Sabin vs. Caprice Coleman: The match closes out with Sabin hitting a cannonball dive on Kenny King who's at ringside. Sabin sunset flips Coleman, but King grabs onto Coleman trying to help him steal the pinfall. Lio Rush arrives and kicks King off of Coleman stopping the pinfall. Sabin follows through with the sunset flip on Coleman and scores the pinfall.
Winner: Chris Sabin, by pinfall.

2.) Roppogi Vice vs. Cheeseburger and Will Ferrara: The match closes out with Cheeseburger and Romero take each other out on the floor. Beretta and Ferrara trade strikes until Ferrara hits a release german suplex on Beretta. Beretta catches Ferrara and sets him up for Strong Zero. Cheeseburger tries to make the save, but comes up short. RPG hit the double team Strong Zero and score the pinfall. After the match, Ferrara is upset and walks out on Cheeseburger. 
Winners: Roppogi Vice, by pinfall.

3.) Vegas Wildcard Random Drawing: Team #1 is drawn as Silas Young, Hangman Page, Jay White and Jay Lethal. Team #2 is drawn as Colt Cabana, Lio Rush, Hanson of War Machine and Bobby Fish.

4.) "Vegas Wildcard 8 Man Tag Team Match": Silas Young, Hangman Page, Jay White and Jay Lethal vs. Colt Cabana, Lio Rush, Hanson and Bobby Fish: The match closes out with Hanson hitting a cartwheel clothesline on White and then Hanson gets taken out by Page with a springboard lariat. Cabana hits a running forearm on Page and then Lethal hits Lethal Combination on Cabana. Page purposely hits his own partner Lethal and then goes to walk out. Kazarian appears, blocks Page's exit and then attacks Page. Rush attacks Lethal and goes for Dragon's Call. Lethal blocks it with his knees up and then hits the Lethal Injection on Rush to score the pinfall. After the match, Young takes credit for the victory and mocks his three partners before leaving.
Winners: Jay Lethal, Jay White, Silas Young and Hangman Page, by pinfall.

- Mr. Anderson.......Anderson Arrives In ROH: Ring of Honor announced this past week that former WWE and TNA star Ken Anderson, aka Mr. Kennedy in WWE, will be making his ROH debut at their "Masters of Craft" event on Saturday, April 28th. Anderson will challenge "The Villain" Marty Scurll for the ROH Television Championship.

*** Other ***

- Rosey Of 3 Minute Warning Passes: Former WWE Superstar Matthew Anoaʻi, better known as Rosey of 3 Minute Warning and Rosey The Superhero In Training has passed away at the age of 47. Rosey's father is Sika Anoaʻi, who competed as one half of the Wild Samoans. Rosey's cousin was the late Eddie Fatu, aka Umaga, whom Rosey teamed with in 3 Minute Warning. Rosey's younger brother is current WWE superstar Roman Reigns. Cause of death is said to have been heart failure.

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!

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

By Brandon Albright, @B_Rock1978

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

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

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

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

** Smackdown Live **

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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