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SPOTLIGHTED PODCAST ALERT (YOUR ARTICLE BEGINS A FEW INCHES DOWN)…

The following report originally published 5 years ago this week here at PWTorch.com…

AEW DYNAMITE TV REPORT
NOVEMBER 25, 2020
JACKSONVILLE, FLA. AT DAILYâ€S PLACE
AIRED LIVE ON TNT
REPORT BY WADE KELLER, PWTORCH EDITOR

Commentators: Jim Ross, Tony Schiavone, Excalibur

Ring Announcer: Justin Roberts

[HOUR ONE]

-The Dynamite opening theme aired. Then they panned cheering clusters of fans as Ross, Schiavone, and Excalibur introduced the show.

(1) “HANGMAN†ADAM PAGE vs. JOHN SILVER (w/Dark Order)

Page came out first. They aired snippets of Pageâ€s prior interactions in the ring and behind the scenes with Dark Order. Then as Silver came out, an inset interview aired with Dark Order, sans Brodie Lee. Evil Uno said they requested this match. Silver said Page is a good guy, and they requested this match, but predicted a win.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Itâ€s good to see a little table-setting for the match, but I donâ€t think itâ€s a great strategy to open Dynamite with a lower-end match-up like this and no teasers for whatâ€s to come later. If you start with a red-hot match-up between stars, thatâ€s one thing, but if not, I think itâ€s important early to get people invested in and excited about the bigger segments and matches.)

Silver offered a fist-bump with Page, but Page said no. Schiavone said Silver has become somewhat of a sensation on the Internet, but he thinks heâ€s demented. Ross noted that Page came out without an alcoholic beverage. Silver scored a near fall after a huracanrana roll-up several minutes in. He continued to rally including a brainbuster suplex for a two count. Page came back with a Liger Bomb and a Buckshot Lariat for the win. Excalibur said Page needs to rebuild after losing the World Title Eliminator final, and this is a good first step.

WINNER: Page in 9:00.

-After the match, the rest of Dark Order came out to the ring. Evil Uno addressed Page. He said they have immense regrets over many things they have done. He said Page was part of a group that wouldnâ€t let him leave when he wanted to, “and if thatâ€s not a cult, I donâ€t know what is.†He said he and his friends are there for him. Schiavone said, “Wow, that sounds pretty sincere.†Excalibur called it a “compelling offer for the lonesome dove, so to speak.â€

-They went to the announcers on camera. They hyped the advertised matches.

-Alex Marvez interviewed Kenny Omega backstage about last weekâ€s contract signing situation. Omega said heâ€s had a lot of time to reflect. He said the more things change, the more they stay the same. He said a year ago, he was nursing injuries he incurred from Jon Moxley. He said he lost, and he can admit it. He said now present time, theyâ€re about to do the dance again, but now he sees Moxleyâ€s face on the cover of magazines and people are calling him the best. He said now the Best Bout Machine and The Cleaner is back. He said he is the true best in the world. He said for a year he has scratched and clawed his way back to the top. He said it isnâ€t until he gets Moxleyâ€s title when people consider him the best. He offered a gentlemanâ€s challenge: “For one night only, dammit, please leave the garbage wrestling at home. No tables, no chairs, no garbage cans, no thumbtacks. If you want to be the best, beat me in the middle of the ring. Pin me, submit me, choke me out, but do it based on your ability.†He said heâ€ll be waiting for him in the ring, “so letâ€s sign that contract.†He congratulated him and Renee on the news that theyâ€re expecting their first child together, and he said that childhood story he told tugged at his heartstrings and he believed every part of it. He said he doesnâ€t think his dad was all that tough, though, and he thinks his dad “would have beat the shit out of your dad.â€

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Now weâ€re getting somewhere with Omegaâ€s character. I like his condescending tone and baked-in arrogance.)

-The announcers hyped Ricky Starks & Powerhouse Hobbs vs. Cody Rhodes & Darby Allin. (They listed him as Cody Rhodes, not just Cody, by the way.) [c]

-A video aired of Darby settling an abandoned junk car on fire as he held his TNT Title. He spray painted “Survive if I let you†on the root of the car before setting it on fire. Then he said, “Now the fun part, Team Taz, survive if I let you.â€

(2) POWERHOUSE HOBBS (wTaz) vs. LEE JOHNSON

They replayed Hobbs turning heel on Cody last week. Taz joined the announcers on commentary. The crowd chanted, “You sold out!†at Hobbs. Hobbs eyed some wrestlers at ringside taunting him. He looked at them and said it was just business. Hobbs tossed Johnson into the security barricade at ringside, then threw him back into the ring and finished him with a powerslam. Taz said he demands anger and a mean streak, and Hobbs has all of them.

WINNER: Hobbs in 3:00.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Heâ€s leaning way too much on the snarl with his mouth and itâ€s seeming cartoonish, but overall his body language and demeanor is a big contrast to his smiling babyface persona.)

-Taz entered the ring and congratulated Hobbs, then sent him to the back. Taz said AEW is not acknowledging the FTW Title. He said heâ€s sick and tired of the lifestyle that belt represents not being recognized. He said heâ€s not leaving the ring until someone from management comes out and acknowledges the legacy of the belt. He said thereâ€s a reason tough bastards hold it. His mic got cut mid-sentence. Schiavone said heâ€s hijacked the show. Taz ordered Justin Roberts to present him with the mic. Ross said Justin almost had a heart attack. Justin handed him in the mic. Taz said if they cut that mic, heâ€s going to grab a headset at ringside instead. The mic got cut. Schiavone said Tony Khan has instructed them to cut him off.

Cody Rhodes stepped onto the stage with a headset on. He walked out and said Taz is done, so give him a round of applause. Cody entered the ring and said he is coming there out of total respect. He said heâ€s wasting time. He said next week they can leave it in the ring. He asked if heâ€s happy with that. Taz said next week, the same thing is going to happen that happened last week – “you and Darby are getting whipped.†He said he wants “one of you management people†to give the FTW Title the respect it deserves. “Iâ€m tired of this shit,†he said. Cody said someone from management is here, and heâ€s going to “run it up the flagpole†for him. Taz asked, “What are you going to say next, creative has something for me, any more of that corporate bullshit, wish me best of luck in my future endeavors?â€

Cody had left the ring, but then he reentered and raised his voice and intensity. He said Tazâ€s son is training to be a pro wrestler, so why is training with him instead of Taz, his dad. Taz dropped the mic and said he canâ€t believe he did that. He said heâ€s shocked and heâ€s pathetic and went too far and that was stupid. Cody dropped his mic and called them for them cut the cameras. Taz choked out Cody from behind. Billy and Austin Gunn entered the ring, so Taz jumped out of the ring. Tazâ€s son was with him, carrying the FTW Title with him.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: There were some good moments there, but I have such difficulty enjoying anything where an active wrestlers is talked about as also being in management. I see no upside, and it leads to convoluted segments like this. The idea weâ€re supposed to believe Cody broke script or went too far didnâ€t work when it was “the cool thing for new-age bookers†in 2000-2005, but itâ€s really unworkable now. Fans just want a good consistent story in the AEW universe, not some pseudo-layered segment where viewers are being asked to play along with the idea that something “got more real than it was supposed to.†Iâ€d do away with any references to wrestlers being EVP and just tell wrestling stories, not insider meta fourth-wall breaking stuff that its target audience is too savvy to buy into and thus feels insulted it was even attempted.) [c]

-They went to the announcers on camera who commented on the Taz-Cody angle.

-Marvez interviewed Eddie Kingston backstage about Pac & Rey Fenix battling his guys Butcher & Blade later. Kingston said heâ€s not mad, heâ€s just disappointed. He said he expected it from Fenix, who likes to jump and flip around the ring. Moxley walked in as Kingston began mouthing off about Pac. He stared at Kingston. “You know it wasnâ€t me,†Kingston said. “Iâ€ve got my own stuff to handle. You know who it was. Youâ€ve got your own stuff to handle, champ.†Mox stared intensely at him, assessed what he said and how much he believed him, and then he turned and left.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Moxley showed how and when to chew gum and still look cool instead of dickish.)

(3) TOP FLIGHT (Dante & Darius Martin) vs. TH2 (Jack Evans & Angelico)

Before the match, they showed TH2 attacking Top Flight unprovoked last week, and then last night on Dark, Top Flight attacked TH2. As TH2 made their entrance, they cut to a soundbite of Evans saying itâ€s time to yank other teams who have shoved them into the dark by the hair and remind them of exactly who they are. Angelico began against Darius. They cut to a break at 2:00. [c]

Darius hot-tagged in and rallied after the break. Angelico saved Evans from being pinned a couple minutes later. They fought back and forth, with TH2 taking over with some near falls of their own. Ross said TH2 are two veterans who want to get back in the hunt, and the other team is in their second match ever on Dynamite. Eventually Angelico got a tapout from Dante.

WINNERS: TH2 in 12:00.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Itâ€s good to see TH2 get some TV time. Theyâ€re talented and a good second-tier team to agitate and feud with a rising team like Top Flight. I have no issue with Top Flight losing here, as TH2 need some credibility if theyâ€re going to try to weave them into Dynamiteâ€s tag team mix, and Top Flight are on a journey and early losses after putting up a good fight is part of that.)

-The Jacksons ran out for the save when TH2 refused to break and then stomped away at Top Flight.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Back to the basics, that run-in establishes the Bucks are babyfaces. My mantra for AEWâ€s booking that Iâ€d post everywhere backstage is “Fault on the side of the basic, keep things simple.†Lean on the wrestlers personalities being enough without being overwritten or ironic or too-clever-by-half or insider or shocking.)

-The announcers reacted. Ross said it looks like Top Flight have some pretty good mentors now.

-Backstage, Vickie Guerrero with Nyla Rose, spoke about nepotism. She said Brandi Rhodes is an example. They showed a clip of Jay Cargill injuring Brandiâ€s arm. She said it appears Brandiâ€s business plan is set up for failure. She said if she needs advice, call her. She cackled. Rose joined in.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: That was Vickieâ€s best promo to date. She didnâ€t rely on “excuse me,†which just feels like left over WWE drivel that was driven into the ground. That was just a good, sufficiently and appropriately annoying heel promo.)

-FTR and Tully Blanchard said they might have had what wrestling journalists called one of the best matches in history, but it was one of the worst nights of their careers because they lost. Dax said he needs the AEW Tag Team Titles. Tully said it is their destiny to hold the belts. He vowed theyâ€d regain the titles.

[HOUR TWO]

(4) CHRIS JERICHO & JAKE HAGER (w/MJF, Wardlow, Santana, Ortiz, Sammy Guevera) vs. SCU (Christopher Daniels & Frankie Kazarian)

The crowd sang Jerichoâ€s song and he seemed, as usual, to really appreciate it. MJF, Wardlow, Santana, and Ortiz swarmed Daniels at ringside as they cut to a break a few minutes in. [c]

Daniels hit the BME for a two count on Hager, broken up by Jericho. When Kaz entered, the ref turned to him. Then MJF used his diamond ring to stop it. Jericho then hit the Judas Effect. Hager then made the cover for the win.

WINNERS: Jericho & Hager in 11:00.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Jericho seemed to see MJF interfere, so theyâ€re not playing up the idea heâ€s not into cheating, despite being on a path to an official babyface turn against MJF.)

-After the match, Kaz attacked MJF. The Inner Circle attacked Kaz and Daniels as a result. Scorpio Sky ran out with a chair to clear the ring of the heels, who fled immediately. Jericho yelled at him from ringside.

-Kip Sabian, along with Penelope Ford and Miro, stood backstage for a “new segment.†Kip called it “The Miro & Kip Video Game Extravaganza.†In walked Orange Cassidy who reset the video game system. That led to a fight outside their trailer including Best Friends. Miro yelled at the camera guy and grabbed him to move out of the way.

-Excalibur announced thereâ€d be a Dynamite Diamond Battle Royal next week.

-They showed Moxley on the ground last week with a bloody nose. The announcers said it seemed Moxley believed Kingston claim that he wasnâ€t involved.

-Schiavone stood mid-ring and introduced Kenny Omega first. Justin Roberts touted his credentials, including four references to the Wrestling Observer Hall of Fame. Two women came out with brooms, as usual, and 1980s jazzercise leotards. The silhouette of Omega showed the silhouette of Moxley attacking him. He beat him up and dragged him to the ring. He stood on Omegaâ€s hand, then gave him a Paradigm Shift onto the AEW Title belt. Moxley asked for the mic from Schiavone. He then said , regarding Omegaâ€s “Gentlemanâ€s Agreement,†he doesnâ€t know who Omega hired to take him out last week, but they did a piss-poor job because heâ€s still walking. He said he knows some guys from Philadelphia looking for work if Omega needs a better option next time.

Moxley said he thought their beef was squashed a week ago, but then he had to go and piss him off. He said not to worry, and consider them even. He said thereâ€s only way to become AEW World Champion, and that is to dig deep into his guts and find the Kenny Omega everyone thinks he is so he can climb a mountain and beat him. He said in one week, itâ€ll be the biggest match in AEW history. He said the two best wrestlers on the planet battle. “God, I love this shit! Win, lose, or draw, winter is coming for you, Kenny.†He said this is not a game and jokes on BTE and dancing girls with brooms wonâ€t help him. He told him he doesnâ€t take prisoners, so steady his hand and aim and take his shot because heâ€ll only get one. Mox then signed the contract.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: More great work from Mox.) [c]

-Marvez interviewed Inner Circle backstage. MJF yelled about what kind of man sucker-punches another man. Jericho said they won fair and square, and as he promised last week, the fun and games for Inner Circle are over and they are going back to beating the hell out of everyone in AEW. He said next week, heâ€s going to make Kazarian famous as theyâ€ll have their first-time ever one-on-one match. He said he will get revenge on him for putting his hands on MJF. He said next week, itâ€s all over.

-A video package aired on Hikura Shida vs. Anna Jay. Jay said she was inexperienced when she first met Shida, but now she has a whole army behind her. Tay Conti touted Jayâ€s martial arts background. Shida said what Jay needs isnâ€t the belt, itâ€s more heart.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Nicely done. It set the stage by showing each of their personalities.)

(5) HIKARU SHIDA vs. ANNA JAY (w/Jay Conti) – AEW Womenâ€s Title match

Three members of Dark Order stood on the stage and watched. They cut to a break a couple minutes in, but stayed with the action on split-screen. [c/ss]

Shida eventually finished Jay with a running knee for the win.

WINNER: Shida in 9:00 to retain the AEW Womenâ€s Title.

-Shida celebrated on the stage with her belt. Abadon then crawled onto the stage. Shida collapsed in fright and crawled backward (because it worked so well for Seth Rollins when faced with The Fiend). Abadon grabbed the belt and licked it. Schiavone said sheâ€s making it clear sheâ€s taken aim at Shida.

-Matt Hardy spoke from backstage. He said 2020 has been a tough year, and considering his super stardom, he wanted to show everyone how to battle through it. He said if he can overcome his insurmountable odds, they can overcome their pedestrian challenges at home. He said when youâ€re ready to give up, ask what Matt would do. “Survive, thrive, win.†He let out a creepy wide-eyed smile.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Whatever Matt does, as long as he sticks with it for a year, I promise to endorse it.)

-The announcers hyped next weekâ€s matches.

-Ricky Starks, Brian Cage, and Hobbs stood backstage. Starks said Taz left in a rage. He said Tony Khan pays them well and puts them in big main event matches. He said his problem is with Cody. He said his “paper-thin ego seems to get in the way.†He blamed Cody for wanting Tazâ€s mic cut because he didnâ€t want Taz to talk about Cody losing his belt. He said now heâ€s made it personal, and next week he and Hobbs are coming to bust heads. Cage said theyâ€re the most dominant force in wrestling. “Who betta?†he asked.

-Schiavone announced Brit Baker vs. Leyla Hirsch.

-Butcher & Blade their ring entrance along with Kingston and Bunny. [c]

(6) REY FENIX & PAC (w/Penta) vs. BUTCHER & BLADE (w/Bunny, Kingston)

Kingston joined the announcers on commentary. Kingston said heâ€s ready to take Schiavoneâ€s spot. The teams met on the ramp and brawled before the bell. After several minutes of hard-hitting back and forth fighting, Fenix landed a nice spinning hook kick on Butcher, but Butcher swatted him out of mid-air on a cutter attempt. With all four wrestlers down on the mat, they cut to a break, but stayed with the action on split-screen. [c/ss]

Back from the break, Blade was in control of Fenix. Ross underlined the magnitude of next weekâ€s Omega vs. Moxley match. Pac tagged in and went rapid-fire on Blade. Butcher and Blade took over against Pac. Butcher dropped Pac over Bladeâ€s knee. Blade then gave Pac a gut-wrench sitout powerbomb for a near fall, with Fenix breaking up the cover (although Pacâ€s shoulders were still down and the ref easily could have just finished counting to three instead of “rewarding†the outside save from the illegal man). Fenix tagged in and took out Blade. Butcher and Pac brawled at ringside. Kingston ran to the ring and knocked Rey off the top rope. Blade gave Fenix a neckbreaker with help from Butcher to add extra elevation, which led to the three count.

WINNERS: Butcher & Blade in 13:00.

(Kellerâ€s Analysis: Good match.)

-Afterward, the heel threesome beat up Death Triangle. When Bunny grabbed a chair, Schiavone told someone to take the chair away “from that lady.†He then said, “That maniac.†Kingston lifted Pacâ€s dead weight and DDTâ€d him onto a chair. “What is wrong with Pac!?†exclaimed Schiavone. Lance Archer charged to the ring and actually attacked Blade. Blade landed on his head when Archer dove at him. Kingston and Butcher attacked Archer, but he bound off the ropes and knocked them both down. Jake Roberts joined him in the ring. Archer set up a chokeslam, but Butcher broke it up. Fenix and Penta joined in to fight back.

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After missing three games due to a strained groin suffered during the Bucks’ November 17 loss to the Cavaliers, Giannis Antetokounmpo could potentially return as soon as Wednesday. He’s considered questionable for the matchup with the Heat, as Milwaukee looks to end a five-game losing streak. Bobby Portis (32 percent rostered, Yahoo!) filled the void for the first two games, with Jericho Sims (less than one percent) doing so for Monday’s loss to the Trail Blazers. Obviously, that spot in the lineup goes to Giannis once he’s cleared. However, Portis’ production has improved after he got off to a slow start, and he’s back to being useful in deep leagues.

Let’s look at some other injuries impacting fantasy basketball in Week 6.

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C Neemias Queta, Boston Celtics

Queta sprained his left ankle early in Sunday’s win over the Magic, and he’ll miss Wednesday’s game against the Pistons at a minimum. While Boston has multiple options in the frontcourt, consistency has been lacking. Josh Minott (six percent) had his moments earlier this season, but he would return to the bench after making nine consecutive starts. Chris Boucher (less than one percent) was viewed as a player with solid fantasy upside in the past, but the production hasn’t been there.

Luka Garza (one percent) and Xavier Tillman (less than one percent) may factor into the rotation on Wednesday due to the Pistons’ physicality, but they aren’t worth the risk on a nine-game night, either. Fantasy managers needing to account for Queta’s absence will be better off looking elsewhere.

C Nikola VuÄević and G Kevin Huerter, Chicago Bulls

VuÄević and Huerter missed Monday’s loss to the Pelicans, with the former sidelined by a knee injury while a pelvis injury sidelined the latter. Both are considered day-to-day, and the schedule may work in their favor, as the Bulls won’t play again until Friday against the Hornets. Patrick Williams (one percent) replaced VuÄević in the lineup in New Orleans and offered little value as Chicago was thoroughly dominated on the glass. Jalen Smith (six percent) was more productive, but the fact that he came off the bench despite being the only healthy center in the rotation is concerning.

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Huerter being out led to additional minutes for Jevon Carter (less than one percent) and Julian Phillips (less than one percent), but there’s no need to consider adding either player. Ayo Dosunmu (24 percent) is the player to target, especially with Isaac Okoro (one percent) sidelined by a back injury.

C Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers

Allen has missed Cleveland’s last three games with a sprained finger, including Monday’s loss to the Raptors. Jaylon Tyson (14 percent) was his replacement in the starting lineup, and the second-year wing has been a top-75 player in nine-cat formats. In those three starts, he averaged 12.0 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists and 1.7 three-pointers while shooting 68.2 percent from the field. With the Cavaliers playing on Friday and Sunday to end Week 6, Tyson will be valuable to deep-league managers if Allen remains out.

NBA: Los Angeles Lakers at Utah Jazz

2025-26 Fantasy Basketball Top 200 Rankings: Kawhi Leonard returns, and should we trust Lauri Markkanen?

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Check out the latest fantasy basketball rankings update as December approaches.

C Dereck Lively II, Dallas Mavericks

Lively’s knee injury has kept him out of the Mavericks’ lineup for the last two games. On Tuesday, the team announced that the center will miss the next three games and will be re-evaluated in seven to ten days. And there’s some concern that Lively could be out even longer than that. Daniel Gafford (22 percent) has been the starting center and deserves a look in more 12-team leagues, while P.J. Washington (45 percent) has added fantasy value as he continues to start for the injured Anthony Davis. Rookie Moussa Cissé (less than one percent) has played nine minutes or less in each of the last four games, so there’s no need to consider streaming him with Lively sidelined.

F Aaron Gordon, Denver Nuggets

Already dealing with bilateral hamstring soreness, Gordon strained his right hamstring during Denver’s November 21 win over the Rockets and will be re-evaluated in four to six weeks. Spencer Jones (less than one percent) has been Gordon’s replacement in the starting lineup, but he’s done nothing from a production standpoint to make an impression on fantasy managers. Peyton Watson (24 percent), who has been starting for the injured Christian Braun, is the superior option by far. At a minimum, he should be rostered in 14-team leagues.

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F Draymond Green and F Jonathan Kuminga, Golden State Warriors

The Warriors were without two members of their starting five for Monday’s win over the Jazz, and both players may face extended absences. That’s already the case for Kuminga, who has missed the last eight games, including Wednesday’s matchup with the Rockets. He’s dealing with bilateral patellar tendinitis, and it’s unknown when he’ll be able to return. Until that changes, Moses Moody (15 percent) should remain with the starters, and he has provided solid 12-team value in that role.

As for Green, he missed the win over Utah with a sprained right foot suffered during a November 21 loss to the Trail Blazers. He didn’t play on Monday and is questionable for Wednesday night. His absence prompted two changes to the starting lineup, with the Warriors employing a legitimate center in Quinten Post (two percent), and Gary Payton II (less than one percent) started for defensive purposes. While neither of these players inspires much confidence in fantasy basketball, an extended absence for Green could make Post worthy of a look in deep leagues.

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C Deandre Ayton, Los Angeles Lakers

Ayton suffered a knee contusion in the first half of Sunday’s win over the Jazz and did not play in Tuesday’s win over the Clippers. The good news is that head coach JJ Redick said before the game that scans of Ayton’s knee came back “clean.” There’s some hope that he’ll be able to return by the end of the week, with the Lakers having games on Friday and Sunday. Jaxson Hayes (five percent) finished Tuesday’s victory with eight points, four rebounds, three assists, one steal and one blocked shot in 30 minutes, with Maxi Kleber (less than one percent) playing 14 minutes off the bench. There isn’t much to gain from adding Hayes right now, since the Lakers won’t play again until Friday. But he’ll deserve a look if Ayton is out for longer than the Lakers hope.

G Norman Powell, Miami Heat

On the same night the Heat welcomed Tyler Herro back into the fold, they were without Powell due to a strained groin. That made the decision about the opening in the starting lineup easy, with Herro sliding into the spot. However, with Powell probable for Wednesday’s game against the Bucks, how will Erik Spoelstra handle the starting five? Does Powell rejoin the starters, with Pelle Larsson (seven percent) or Kel’el Ware (69 percent) heading to the bench? Or does Powell take on a sixth-man role, which would impact reserve Jaime Jaquez Jr. (50 percent)?

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Miami’s depth makes for some interesting options, but Ware and Jaquez should be fine in terms of fantasy value, even if Andrew Wiggins is available after missing three games with a hip injury. Ware returned to the starting lineup in place of Wiggins, so that will impact him more than whatever the Heat decide once Powell is healthy enough to play.

F Herb Jones, New Orleans Pelicans

Jones has missed the last two games with a strained right calf, and he will also miss Wednesday’s game against the Grizzlies. He’ll be out for at least one week before being re-evaluated, so the absence may extend past Week 7. While Micah Peavy (less than one percent) started the November 22 loss to the Hawks, it was because Zion Williamson was also out. With Zion returning two nights later for a win over the Bulls, Peavy moved to the bench while Saddiq Bey (17 percent) remained with the starters.

For that reason, Bey is worth a look in deep leagues, even though the percentages haven’t been great. Also, New Orleans ends Week 6 with a back-to-back on Saturday and Sunday. Fantasy managers should operate under the assumption that Williamson won’t play in both games, which is another reason to give Bey a shot. So far, he has played both ends of two of the Pelicans’ three back-to-backs after missing all of last season with a torn ACL.

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F Paul George and F Trendon Watford, Philadelphia 76ers

The 76ers did not have George for Tuesday’s loss to the Magic, as he is recovering from a sprained right ankle. Making matters worse, they lost Watford during Tuesday’s game with a strained adductor, and that may mean an extended absence for the versatile forward. Dominick Barlow (four percent), who began the season as a starter, replaced George in the lineup on Tuesday, finishing with 11 points, six rebounds, two assists, one block and one three-pointer in 31 minutes. George’s availability also affects Justin Edwards (three percent), but both started the November 23 win over the Heat, with the former filling in for the injured Kelly Oubre Jr.

NBA: Philadelphia 76ers-Media Day

Fantasy Basketball Stock Up Stock Down: Andre Drummond stepping up in Joel Embiidâ€s absence

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Drummond is averaging a double-double in the month of November.

F Ryan Dunn, Phoenix Suns

Under normal circumstances, Dunn’s absence would not generate much attention in fantasy basketball. However, with Grayson Allen still recovering from a quad contusion, Dunn’s absence with a sprained right wrist has been impactful. Wednesday’s game against the Kings will be his third on the sideline, which should mean another start for Jordan Goodwin (15 percent). In games against the Spurs and Rockets, he totaled 22 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, four steals and two three-pointers. Collin Gillespie (29 percent) also has value due to the Suns’ perimeter injuries, but Goodwin will be easier to find on waiver wires.

C Domantas Sabonis, Sacramento Kings

Sabonis is out with a partially torn left meniscus, and he’ll be re-evaluated in approximately a month. His absence means Drew Eubanks (two percent) will serve as the starting center, and the Kings have also shown a willingness to go small and use Precious Achiuwa (three percent) in that role. However, before considering either player, fantasy managers must scour their waiver wires for Keegan Murray. He’s rostered in 43 percent of Yahoo! leagues, so he may be lurking on some category league wires (yes, the new High Score format may be influencing these rostership percentages).

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G Dylan Harper, San Antonio Spurs

Out since November 2 with a strained left calf, Harper may be close to a return. The rookie is questionable for Wednesday’s game against the Trail Blazers. Obviously, fantasy managers should not expect too much from Harper in the early stages of his return, as there will likely be a minutes restriction of some kind. However, with Stephon Castle (hip) out, there will be room for him to provide value. Keldon Johnson (19 percent) and Julian Champagnie (seven percent) have been top-100 players over the past week, with the latter providing that value despite coming off the bench.

F RJ Barrett, Toronto Raptors

Barrett injured his knee during the Raptors’ November 23 win over the Nets. The good news is that he’s considered day-to-day, so the wing could be out of the woods regarding a serious injury. Ja’Kobe Walter (one percent) started Toronto’s win over Cleveland the following night, finishing with five points, three rebounds, one assist, two steals and one three-pointer in 24 minutes. Walter may have been first in line for minutes with Barrett sidelined. Still, the Raptors’ willingness to play Jamal Shead (eight percent) alongside starting point guard Immanuel Quickley limits his fantasy upside. Shead also played 24 minutes against the Cavaliers.

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G Tre Johnson and F Corey Kispert, Washington Wizards

The Wizards have been without Johnson for the last two games with a hip injury, and he does not have a return timeline. And with Kyshawn George missing Tuesday’s win over the Hawks due to illness, the Wizards called upon Corey Kispert (two percent) to fill the void. Unfortunately, after a hot start to the victory that ended Washington’s 14-game losing streak, Kispert exited during the third quarter with a right thumb injury.

We’ll see how much time he misses, but the best thing for Washington would be to get George back in time for Friday’s game against the Pacers. With that being the Wizards’ final game of Week 6, there really isn’t an appealing streamer on the roster if George and Kispert are out, especially with 11 games on that day’s slate.

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The Edmonton Oilers’ back-to-back runs to the Stanley Cup Final have had a positive effect on their overall valuation, according to a new report.

According to figures published by CNBC on Tuesday, the Oilers are now valued at $3.1 billion, an increase of 17 per cent from 2024.

That increase has vaulted the Oilers into the top five among all NHL franchises, moving them ahead of the Boston Bruins ($3.05 billion).

The top four teams remain unchanged, with the Toronto Maple Leafs leading the way at $4.3 billion. Rogers Communications, which owns Sportsnet, became the majority owner of Maple Leafs Sports and Entertainment earlier this year.

The New York Rangers are second on CNBC’s rankings with a valuation of $3.8 billion, followed by the Montreal Canadiens ($3.4 billion) and Los Angeles Kings ($3.15 billion).

Speaking on CNBC after the report was published, NHL commissioner Gary Bettman cautioned that the numbers are “undervalued” and “as much art as it is science.”

But Bettman added that “the trending is very positive.”

Bettman went on to say that NHL teams have more cost certainty than teams in other sports because the hard salary-cap system helps teams have more predictable payrolls and stay in the playoff hunt for more of the season. Entering play Wednesday, 11 teams not in a playoff spot were within four points of the final wild-card position in their conference.

“What you see on the ice, the competitive balance, the entertainment value, is extraordinary, and that’s because we have a system that enables all of our teams to compete,” Bettman said.

The CNBC panel also pressed Bettman on expansion. While the commissioner wouldn’t tip his hand to any markets the league might consider expanding to, he said that any expansion fee for a new club would be no less than $2 billion.

CNBC’s complete rankings of NHL teams by value:

1. Toronto Maple Leafs, $4.3 billion
2. New York Rangers, $3.8 billion
3. Montreal Canadiens, $3.4 billion
4. Los Angeles Kings $3.15 billion
5. Edmonton Oilers $3.1 billion
6. Boston Bruins, $3.05 billion
7. Chicago Blackhawks, $2.75 billion
8. Philadelphia Flyers, $2.6 billion
9. Washington Capitals, $2.5 billion
10. Detroit Red Wings, $2.47 billion
11. New Jersey Devils, $2.45 billion
12. Vancouver Canucks, $2.2 billion
13. Vegas Golden Knights, $2.1 billion
14. Dallas Stars, $2.05 billion
15. Carolina Hurricanes, $2 billion
16. Tampa Bay Lightning, $1.95 billion
17. Calgary Flames, $1.93 billion
18. Minnesota Wild, $1.9 billion
19. Colorado Avalanche, $1.85 billion
20. New York Islanders, $1.82 billion
21. Seattle Kraken, $1.77 billion
22. Pittsburgh Penguins, $1.76 billion
23. Florida Panthers, $1.75 billion
24. Nashville Predators, $1.65 billion
25. St. Louis Blues, $1.62 billion
26. Anaheim Ducks, $1.61 billion
27. Utah Mammoth, $1.6 billion
28. San Jose Sharks, $1.55 billion
29. Winnipeg Jets, $1.46 billion
30. Ottawa Senators, $1.44 billion
31. Buffalo Sabres, $1.42 billion
32. Columbus Blue Jackets, $1.4 billion

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Inter Milan are only three points behind Serie A leaders Roma but four losses in their first 12 matches have the distinct whiff of missed opportunities.

Goalkeeping errors have become a big topic among Inter supporters and 36-year-old Yann Sommer, who joined the Nerazzurri from Bayern Munich in 2023, has conceded more goals than the post-shot expected goals (PSxG) faced in Serie A this season.

Second-choice goalkeeper Josep Martinez is still available but has reportedly missed opportunities to play in Sommer’s place in the aftermath of a tragic road incident in which his car hit and killed an 81-year-old man.

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A new goalkeeper is a priority for Inter Milan

Inter Milan coach Cristian Chivu (Image credit: Getty Images)

With 20-year-old Alessandro Calligaris a fresh face in the first team squad and Raffaele Di Gennaro injured, FCInter1908 reports that Sommer’s ‘decline’ has expedited Inter’s quest to find his successor.

“The first name on the list is Elia Caprile,” reports Gianni Pampinella. “[Cagliari] bought him in the summer for €8 million. Others on the list: [Zion] Suzuki, a year younger than Caprile [but] sidelined until at least February with a hand injury, and Noah Atubolu from Freiburg.”

Twenty-four-year-old Caprile has had to work his way up the ranks over the last five years. He developed at Chievo in Verona, the city where he was born, and was signed by Championship side Leeds United in the January transfer window in 2020.

Leeds were promoted but Caprile never made a senior appearance for the Yorkshire club in either the Championship or the Premier League. He returned to Italy and was loaned to third-tier Pro Patria in 2021/22.

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His performance in Busto Arsizio earned him a permanent switch to Bari in Serie B. A year later he was on the move again, joining Scudetto contenders Napoli in 2023.

Loans to Empoli and Cagliari followed and Caprile is now an established first choice in Serie A with the Sardinians.

The former Leeds prospect posted impressive numbers on loan at Cagliari in the second half of last season and was called up for the Italian national team for the first time in November.

Elia Caprile (Image credit: Getty Images)

Caprile wasn’t given his senior international debut as Italy left it agonisingly late to beat Moldova and lost to Norway, leaving them facing a World Cup 2026 qualification play-off semi-final against Northern Ireland in March.

Caprile and Cagliari will be in the spotlight on Saturday when they travel north to Turin to take on Juventus.

Despite calls for him to be dropped, Sommer is likely to start Inter Milan’s away game at Pisa on Sunday afternoon.

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Red Sox acquiring pitcher Sonny Gray in trade with Cardinals: Report originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

The Boston Red Sox have made an early move to bolster their starting rotation.

The Red Sox have acquired right-handed pitcher Sonny Gray in a trade with the St. Louis Cardinals, the team announced Tuesday. Jon Heyman of the New York Post first reported the news.

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Boston is sending right-hander Richard Fitts and left-hander Brandon Clarke to St. Louis in exchange for Gray and cash, as first reported by ESPNâ€s Jeff Passan. Here are the full terms of the deal, with MassLiveâ€s Chris Cotillo reporting the Cardinals are sending $20 million to Boston:

• Red Sox receive:RHP Sonny Gray, $20 million

• Cardinals receive:RHP Richard Fitts, LHP Brandon Clarke

Gray, 36, posted a 4.28 ERA with a 1.234 WHIP over 32 starts for the Cardinals last season. Those arenâ€t remarkable numbers, but Gray did boast impressive command, leading the majors in strikeout-to-walk ratio (5.29) with 201 strikeouts to just 38 walks.

A three-time All-Star, Gray has pitched for five different teams — the Oakland Athletics, New York Yankees, Cincinnati Reds, Minnesota Twins and Cardinals — over 13 MLB seasons.

Gray signed a three-year, $75 million contract with St. Louis in 2024 and was set to make $35 million this season. According to The Athleticâ€s Ken Rosenthal, however, the Red Sox are reworking his contract to a $31 million salary in 2026 with a mutual-option buyout of $10 million after the season.

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So, with $20 million coming in from St. Louis, Boston essentially is on the hook for $21 million of Grayâ€s salary for one year. Thatâ€s a relatively fair price to pay a pitcher of Grayâ€s age and stature.

At the moment, Gray would slot in as a middle-of-the-rotation arm behind Garrett Crochet and Brayan Bello, giving the Red Sox an experienced pitcher with strong command who can eat innings.

Rookies Payton Tolle and Connelly Early showed plenty of promise last season and could round out the rest of the rotation. Both young hurlers are relatively unproven, however, so you could argue Craig Breslow and Co. still need to add more starting pitching — preferably a big name like Minnesota Twins right-hander Joe Ryan, who has been linked to Boston in trade rumors.

Tuesdayâ€s trade for Gray — with old friend and Cardinals president of baseball operations Chaim Bloom — is a clear sign the Red Sox are in “win now†mode. But how they add around Gray will go a long way in determining whether this move was worthwhile.

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SPOTLIGHTED PODCAST ALERT (YOUR ARTICLE BEGINS A FEW INCHES DOWN)…

WWE RAW RESULTS
NOVEMBER 24, 2025
OKLAHOMA CITY, OKLA. AT PAYCOM CENTER
STREAMED LIVE ON NETFLIX
REPORT BY WADE KELLER, PWTORCH EDITOR

Commentators: Joe Tessitore, Wade Barrett

Ring Announcer: Samantha Irvin

Attendance: WrestleTix reports today that 9,551,tickets were distributed so far; arena set up for 9,929. The arena has a capacity of 18,203 spectators when configured for basketball.

JOIN US LIVE ON YOUTUBE TONIGHT FOR THE VIDEO-FORMAT OF OUR LIVE POST-SHOW

PWTorch editor Wade Keller is joined by PWTorch contributor Kelly Wells to review WWE Raw LIVE. Join us and let us know your thoughts on Raw during the show.

Email our post-show at wadekellerpodcast@gmail.com with your comments and questions about Raw. Weâ€ll read your emails live during the post-show.

VIDEO CALLER CODE: CLICK HERE

Click that link during the post-show to enter the waiting room as “live video caller†(or just audio if you turn off your cam, which is fine).

If you canâ€t join us live on YouTube, stream the show on demand later at YouTube or listen or stream later on a podcast app. Subscribe to all of our free podcasts by searching “wade keller†and “pwtorch†in your podcast app of choice including Spotify and Apple Podcasts and most other iOS and Android apps.

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[HOUR ONE]

-Joe Tessitore introduced the show as they showed an aerial view of Oklahoma City. Then they showed the set-up for WWE in San Diego in progress for Survivor Series.

-A video package aired on the assembling of the babyface WarGames men’s team including Paul Heyman aligning with Drew McIntyre and the appearance of Brock Lesnar followed by Roman Reigns coming out to square off with Lesnar and then finally the four babyfaces assembling in the ring with a Reigns-Punk staredown closing the segment.

-They cut backstage to Drew McIntyre, Logan Paul, Bron Breakker, Bronson Reed, and Paul Heyman backstage. Tessitore plugged the WarGames advantage match. They showed Penta strutting in the parking lot, Carmelo Hayes arriving, and Becky Lynch walking backstage while talking on her phone. Tessitore said the fans know what to expect with “star power everywhere.”

-Reigns made his ring entrance. He said, “O-K-C! Acknowledge me!” Cody Rhodes’s music interrupted. Cody made his way to the ring as Reigns watched. Fans sang “Cody, Cody Rhodes!” (They haven’t picked up on Cody never seeming to really like that and barely tolerating it.) Cody told Roman he acknowledges that he is a man of his word. He said last time he gave him his word, it was about a match, but this time it is about war. He asked Reigns, “What’s in this for you?”

Reigns said last time he checked, he’s been in this war and “you’re just now joining.” He said he doesn’t like Cody and Cody doesn’t like him. “We don’t even know each other all that well,” he added. He said there is one thing he knows about him, and that is they don’t play around when it comes to their family. He said last he checked, half of their team is family. “And before they were on this team, they were in my Bloodline.” He said that means he has been invested in the Usos for a long time. “I’m here to see this investment through,” he said.

Cody responded: “Understood. Then all I can say is welcome to my team.” He offered his hand. Reigns stared at his hand for a few seconds, at which point C.M. Punk’s music played and he walked out with his World Heavyweight Title belt around his waist. Barrett said this WarGames is the most star-studded in history. Punk got in Roman’s face and said, “Does it feel great to be alive on a Monday night in Oklahoma City or what?” He then asked OKC, with a wry smile and a side eye aimed at Roman, “Acknowledge us!” He told Roman he is stealing his best material, but this is an all-star WarGames.

Punk said last year at WarGames, he remembers saving Roman’s life. Roman replied, “Then four months later, you ruined it.” Punk said he doesn’t fear Roman stabbing him in the back, because that would mean stabbing his cousins in the back. He said, with a snarky tone, he would never be “mean to his own family, would he?” Cody said they’re all on the same team. Punk asked if heard Cody refer to it as his team. Punk said this is Monday night and Netflix, not Smackdown and USA Network. He told Cody that he can be the quarterback on Fridays, but on Mondays, call him the champ.

Roman interjected that they might as “pull them out and measure them now.” He said it’s ridiculous. He said he doesn’t care whose team it is. He said he doesn’t like either of them, but they can agree that he hates Paul Heyman and he hates The Vision. “That’s my word, that’s my promise,” he said. “That I hate them more than I hate you.” He closed by telling them that the title would look so much on his shoulder. He then dropped the mic and walked away.

Punk asked if he was talking to him or Cody. Reigns laughed and said that’s for them to figure out. He continued walking. Punk told Cody, “He’s talking to you.”

(Keller’s Analysis: It’s always risky to have babyfaces bicker as they can all come out looking bad and leave fans conflicted. This, though, I think pulled off seeming like three alphas leveraging themselves going into the match with common interests and past conflicts. I think all three represented themselves well given the context and mission.)

-They cut backstage to Heyman with The Vision and Drew McIntyre. Heyman told Drew that the only reason he’s there is because he picked him for the Advantage match and he can screw that up if he looks at the wrong person the wrong way tonight. He said the advantage match is now a tag match. Logan Paul interjected that the partner is Brock Lesnar. Heyman said Lesnar is in a terrible mood over what happened with Roman last week. He said he shouldn’t have said Lesnar’s name. Logan said, “Brock’s name cannot come out of my mouth.” Heyman said, “Are you kidding me?!” Logan said he’s just messing with him. Heyman then revealed that he picked Logan to team with Drew later. Logan said, “Wise choice.”

(Keller’s Analysis: I’m still not clear on how the Drew suspension was necessary for this story to play out this way. Drew could easily have not been suspended and taken the same path to joining the Heyman team.)

-Gunther made his ring entrance. [c]

(1) GUNTHER vs. CARMELO HAYES – Last Time Is Now Tournament Quarterfinals

The bell rang 31 minutes into the hour. Hayes went on an aggressive attack at the start. When Gunther took over, he turned his back and stood on the second rope to gloat Hayes came up behind Gunther and powerbombed him to the mat. He followed with a running knee to the face and a springboard DDT for a two count. They cut to an early at 2:00. [c]

Back from the break, Gunther was in control. Hayes scored a two count with a small package. Hayes applied a sleeper, but Gunther escaped and applied his own. Hayes leveraged Gunther’s shoulders down. Gunther released. Hayes applied a sleeper again. Gunther suplexed Hayes to break it. Both were down and slow to get up at 6:00. Gunther told the camera at ringside that Hayes didn’t beat anyone of consequence. Barrett said he beat Bronson. Tessitore noted Cody gave Hayes “a major assist.” They cut to another break at 9:00. [c]

Back from the break, Barrett said Gunther seemed frustrated and perhaps exhausted. Hayes landed a First 48 out of nowhere. Gunther tossed him over the top rope. Hayes landed on the ring apron and then kicked a charging Gunther. Gunther stood and chopped him off the top rope.

Hayes landed a running flip dive over the top rope onto Gunther at ringside. Gunther set up a powerbomb at ringside, but Hayes backdropped him into the time keepers area. Hayes leaped off the barricade and DDT’d Gunther. Hayes rolled into the ring and the ref got to nine. Gunther barely beat the count. Hayes stayed on the attack, but Gunther ducked Hayes and then landed a hard lariat and a powerbomb into jackknife cover for a two count. Gunther threw some elbows to the side of Hayes’s head and then applied a sleeper. Hayes fought out of it, but Gunther slammed him to the mat with another powerbomb for the win.

WINNER: Gunther in 17:00 to advance.

(Keller’s Analysis: Good match with a fun blend of Gunther’s methodical power style and Hayes’s resilience and high-flying. The outcome didn’t seem to be in question, but they managed to maybe create some doubt with some near falls including that near countout. WWE should utilize countouts as a match finish more often so there’s more drama when they want to tease it without it being the actual finish.)

-They went backstage to Cody, Punk, and Reigns who were still bickering. Punk told Cody in front of Reigns, “I didn’t ruin his life; he’s perfectly healthy.” (Kinda funny.) The Usos walked in. Jey Uso mock applauded and called for unity. Jimmy made his case that he and Jey should be in the tag match later because they’re on the same page, whereas Cody, Punk, and Reigns are not.

-A clip aired of John Cena talking about success. “To me, success is simply the fulfillment you did the best with life,” he said. He has used the term “earn the sunset” a lot. He said he has had D- days and D+ days and C days and a lot of B days and few few A- days. He said success is being gracious enough to grade yourself where a failuire is a 59 and down.

(Keller’s Analysis: More “Deep Thoughts with John Cena.” His advice isn’t bad, but it’s his delivery that suggests he’s saying these profound things everyone can learn from that no one has thought of before that is off-putting. There’s no humility to how kinda obvious all of his platitudes are.)

-Dominik Mysterio made his ring entrance.

Advertised Matches & Appearances

• Gunther vs. Carmelo Hayes – The Last Time Is Now Tournament Quarterfinals match
• Penta vs. Solo Sikoa – The Last Time Is Now Tournament Quarterfinals match
• Menâ€s WarGames Advantage match
• Roman Reigns to kick off the show
• Becky Lynch to appear
• Brock Lesnar to appear
• Dominik Mysterio to address John Cena

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Roman Reigns (credit Scott Lunn – @ScottLunn © PWTorch)

SPOTLIGHTED PODCAST ALERT (YOUR ARTICLE BEGINS A FEW INCHES DOWN)…

The following report originally published 10 years ago this week here at PWTorch.com…

WWE Raw TV Report
October 26, 2015 – Episode #1,170
Live in San Diego, Calif.
Report by James Caldwell, PWTorch assistant editor

Live Raw on USA Network

Raw opened with Michael Cole introducing the show before Triple Hâ€s theme music played. Out came Hunter and Stephanie McMahon representing The Authority. As Hunter and Steph made their way to the ring, Cole, JBL, and Byron Saxton talked about last nightâ€s Hell in a Cell main event of The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar inside the HIAC structure. The video package went through the highlights of the match and the Wyattsâ€s post-match attack on Taker. Cole wanted to know why Bray targeted Undertaker. “Why did no one help Taker?†was not asked.

In the ring, Hunter and Stephanie hyped last nightâ€s HIAC PPV. Hunter said it started with Alberto Del Rio returning to WWE and beating John Cena for the U.S. Title. Plus, the next wave of WWE Superstars. Stephanie said the leader of that group is “The Man,†the WWE World Hvt. champion Seth Rollins.

Rollins strutted down to the ring and hugged Hunter and Stephanie as the announcers gloated about Seth conquering Kane last night, causing Corporate Kane to be fired. Hunter said they lined up opponent after opponent, and he is still champion. “You proved us right!†he said. Steph said they hand-picked Seth from The Shield to lead the next generation of stars, finding ways to overcome the odds, just like Hunter did throughout his career.

Hunter said that not only did Seth win last night, but he made The Authority and WWE better by ousting Kane. “Weâ€re proud of you, man,†Hunter said. Hugs all around. That will look nice in a future video package when Hunter and Seth feud. Seth celebrated defeating Big Red Kane, but he wanted to pause to reciprocate by thanking two visionaries for seeing his talent.

Stephanie said this is all great, but theyâ€ve left him in an awkward spot having no one left to face Seth for the WWE Title. So, now they have to find out who earns a future title shot by scratching and clawing and digging for the “privilege†of facing Seth for the title.  Hunter announced tonightâ€s format where HIAC winners will have singles matches, then advance to a four-way contender match to earn the right to “get beaten by Seth Rollins.â€

Rollins said that sounds like – that sounds like whatâ€s best for — suddenly, The Shieldâ€s music interrupted. Out came Roman Reigns through the crowd with something to say about this celebration. Reigns slowly entered the ring, then stared down Rollins. Reigns told San Diego that this whole thing has made him sick.

Reigns said Rollins doesnâ€t belong in the WWE Hall of Fame. And, after tonight, Seth is looking at the #1 contender. “Iâ€m taking that championship,†Reigns said in Sethâ€s face. “Believe that.†Big mid-ring stare down. “Well then, let the games begin!†Stephanie shouted in the background. Hunter, Stephanie, and eventually Seth left the ring as Reigns hung back in the ring. Cole hyped Reigns kicking off the title series tonight.

[Commercial Break at 8:13]

[Q2] Back live, Roman Reigns continued to hang out in the ring. Big E.â€s voice came over the P.A. system telling San Diego to be on alert because New Day is here. Reigns kept hiding his face when WWE cut back to the ring as New Day made their entrance. On the mic, Big E. and Kofi Kingston walked and talked about Reignsâ€s hair being booty, his look being stale, and Reigns not being a champion. Reigns sold amusement over this speech. Big E. talked about putting the Dudleys in their past, Xavier Woods in their hearts, and their opponents in the ground. Kofi Kingston vowed to go inside the ring and make some magic. Surprisingly, no sports-related heel promo from Big E. for tomorrow nightâ€s SportsCenter segment.

1 — ROMAN REIGNS vs. WWE tag champion KOFI KINGSTON (w/Big E.) — Winner advances to #1 contender main event

As the bell sounded, the announcers talked about Reigns not being 100 percent after wrestling Bray Wyatt in the Hell in a Cell last night. Cole added that Xavier Woods is still on the “injured list†after being put through a table by the Dudleys last week on Raw. Once the match started, Kofi got in early offense, but Reigns cleared him to the outside. Big E. tried to regroup with Kofi as Raw cut to break.

[Commercial Break at 8:21]

Back on Raw, Reigns executed a super vertical suplex from the ring apron back into the ring. Reigns knocked Kofi out of the ring again, then Reigns and Big E. had a staredown ringside. Big E. hip-thrusted toward Reigns, distracting him, which allowed Kofi to blindside Reigns with a dropkick through the ropes.

Back in the ring, Kofi worked over Reigns with a headlock. Reigns fought out against the under-sized tag champion, but Kofi used his quickness to leg-sweep Reigns to the mat. Kofi and Big E. celebrated on the outside, then Kofi came off the top turnbuckle with a double axehandle for a two count. Kofi again went for a headlock, but Reigns dropped Kofi to the mat for a breather.

[Q3] Reigns fired off a round of standing lariats into a flying clothesline to knock down Kofi. Reigns then wanted a Powerbomb Kevin Nash-style, but Kofi slipped out. He then took an uppercut from Reigns, who followed with slow, count-along, repeated clotheslines in the corner. Reigns then tried a roll-up pin, which he transitioned into a lift-up powerbomb, but Kofi kicked out of a pin.

Reigns caught his breath, regrouped, ignored Big E. yelling at him, and warmed up for the Superman Punch. He decided to Superman Punch Big E. when he got on the ring apron, then he ducked a clothesline from Kofi and nailed a big spear. Reigns covered Kofi for the win.

WINNER: Reigns at 12:43 to advance to the main event. Overall, this was a nice, refreshing match-up, complete with Big E. doing great work at ringside. As for Reigns, though, he really got winded at the end. It was more than just selling, as he struggled to execute moves in sequence until getting to the finish. Itâ€s not as big of a  deal if heâ€s in the mid-card, but if heâ€s going to be a main event leading man, these things are going to stand out more and more.

Backstage: WWE showed The Miz standing around with some random people in the background. Miz said he asked everyone to witness him play the new WWE video game. He vowed to do a better version of “Stone Cold†Steve Austin than Austin himself. Cole started playing the game.

Announcers: Cole and Co. hyped this weekâ€s video game release.

Video Package: WWE re-visited last nightâ€s HIAC PPV when Alberto Del Rio returned to WWE, won the U.S. Title from John Cena, and formed an alliance with Zeb Colter.

Still to come: Big E. vs. Dolph Ziggler and Neville vs. Alberto in two other #1 contender qualifying matches. Plus, Cesaro vs. Kevin Owens up next.

[Commercial Break at 8:36]

In-ring: Cesaro was introduced to the ring back from break. IC champion Kevin Owens was out next as his opponent in the #1 contender series. In an inset promo, Owens vowed to stand in the ring as both WWE World champion and IC champion.

2 — IC champion KEVIN OWENS vs. CESARO — non-title match — Winner advances to #1 contender main event

As soon as the bell sounded, Owens looked down to ringside to yell at Cole to call his match right. Cesaro nearly ended the match with a roll-up, but Owens escaped. Owens then went to work on Cesaro before pausing again to yell at Cole to stop laughing and watch this. Owens went for a suplex, but Cesaro blocked and delivered a big delayed suplex, popping the crowd.

The match moved to the floor in front of the announce table. Owens and Cesaro traded blows, then knocked each other down with a double clothesline. The referee kept counting, bringing his count to six. Seven. Eight. Nine. Owens made it back into the ring and Cesaro just barely got in before ten. It was a judgment call by the ref on whether to count Cesaro out, but he decided the match should continue. “Dammit,†Owens muttered as Raw cut to break.

[Q4] [Commercial Break at 8:45]

Back from break, Cesaro lit up Owens, who decided to bail from the ring. He decided he wanted to leave with his IC Title, but Cesaro tracked him down on the outside and roughed him up. Back in the ring, Owens rolled out of the ring. So, Cesaro smashed him with a flying clothesline from the ring apron.

Back in the ring, Cesaro hit a cross-body block for a two count. He wanted to follow with the Big Swing, but Owens reversed into an implant DDT for a two count. Owensâ€s mouth took over again, giving Cesaro an opening to come off the ropes with a huge springboard twisting uppercut. He then put Owens in position for the Big Swing, but Owens wiggled to the bottom rope for a break. Owens continued to hold onto the ropes, killing Cesaroâ€s momentum. Cesaro lost focus, allowing Owens to smash him with a superkick. Owens followed right up with the pop-up powerbomb for the pin and the win.

Post-match, Owens grabbed his IC Title belt and left the ring to yell at Cole and try to intimidate him.

WINNER: Owens at 10:20. Fine heel work from Owens playing a coward and bully, setting up Cesaro for more awesome offense, and sneaking out a win when he was clearly over-matched by Cesaro. Owens and Reigns mixing it up with two others in the main event will be interesting.

Backstage: Paige was lounging on a couch talking on the phone. She hung up when Divas champion Charlotte and Becky Lynch walked in. Paige talked about how much her phone is blowing up since appearing on Conan last week. Paige kept talking herself up, then stopped when she realized she was over-looking Charlotte and Becky. Paige tried to act nice, then Charlotte replied that she is trying to believe Paige right now. But, if she finds out that she attacked Natalya, there will be consequences. Paige denied the allegation yet again, then said they need to team up again. Becky was reluctant, but agreed.

[Commercial Break at 8:55]

In-ring: Divas champion Charlotte, Paige, and Becky Lynch were introduced to the ring for a six-Divas tag match. Cole introduced a video package on Charlotte thwarting Nikki Bella in the Divas Title match last night at HIAC. The Bella Twinsâ€s music then played to bring out the Bellas to some cheers in their home market along with Alicia Fox.

ARTICLE CONTINUED BELOW…

Check out the latest episode of the Wade Keller Pro Wrestling Post-show covering the latest episode of Smackdown: CLICK HERE to stream (or search “wade Keller†on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or any other iOS or Android app to subscribe free)

[Q5 — second hour]

3 — Divas champion CHARLOTTE & PAIGE & BECKY LYNCH vs. ALICIA FOX & THE BELLA TWINS (NIKKI & BRIE BELLA) — six-Divas tag match

When the bell sounded, Nikki tried to get in Charlotteâ€s face, angry over losing to her last night, but Paige stepped up and protected Charlotte. So, Paige and Nikki started the top-of-the-hour match with a hard-hitting opening exchange. Tags to Charlotte and Fox. Fox got the best of the champ by attacking her soft spot from last nightâ€s match.

After Team Bellas worked over the Champ, Becky tagged in. Chaos broke out in the ring, leaving Becky and Nikki. Becky took a kick to the head, then the Rack Attack. Nikki covered and Paige had a chance to break up the pin, but she pretended to be just a step too slow.

Post-match, Team Bellas celebrated, then bailed from the ring. Charlotte checked on Becky, who tried to shake off Nikkiâ€s finisher. Suddenly, Paige attacked Charlotte from behind and smashed her with Ram-Paige, popping the crowd for a heel turn. Paige took out Becky, then she returned to Charlotte and slapped on the PTO, stretching the champ in the middle of the ring. Paige eventually dropped the hold and made it all about herself.

WINNERS: Team Bellas at 5:25. The big post-match heel turn explains the top-of-the-hour placement. Well done setting up Paige as a viable threat to Charlotte as her next challenger.

Announcers: Cole and Co. reacted to Paigeâ€s actions, then introduced a video game version of The Undertaker vs. Brock Lesnar.

Up Next: Video review of Taker-Lesnar, in real-life, from last nightâ€s HIAC PPV.

[Commercial Break at 9:10]

Announcers: Cole and Co. hyped WrestleMania 32 next year in Texas, with tickets going on-sale next month. This led to a discussion of Taker vs. Lesnar at last nightâ€s HIAC PPV, followed by Bray Wyatt and the Wyatts taking out Taker. Cole hyped a word from Bray about their actions later in the show.

[Q6] Backstage: Renee Young brought in U.S. champion Alberto Del Rio and Zeb Colter for an interview. Renee wanted to know how this alliance happened. Zeb, speaking in a normal voice with no hint of vitriol, said he gets it that it seems strange to see a great Mexican joining forces with a Real-American. He told Renee to imagine the U.S. and Mexico as one country without walls. Zeb said he is here today to form a new country – Mex-America.

Renee turned to Alberto Del Rio to discuss his match against Neville tonight. Alberto said heâ€s not going to let a selfish immigrant like Neville take away his chance to become WWE Champion again. Alberto pictured his victory as Raw faded to the arena, where Neville made his entrance heading to break.

[Commercial Break at 9:19]

Back live, Alberto Del Rio made his ring entrance as Zeb Colter quietly scooted down to ringside sporting a “divided houseâ€Â U.S. and Mexican flag. In this case, itâ€s a “united house†flag.

4 — U.S. champion ALBERTO DEL RIO vs. NEVILLE — Winner advances to #1 contender main event

Alberto and Neville felt each other out as the announcers discussed John Cena being surprised by Albertoâ€s return last night. Alberto took control of the match as the announcers went through Albertoâ€s WWE history and lucha background, including being the AAA Mega Champion. Interesting. Alberto suddenly walked into a wheelbarrow bulldog from Neville, who followed with a springboard cross-body for a two count. Alberto bailed to the outside looking for a breather and conversation with Zeb heading to break.

[Commercial Break at 9:27]

[Q7] Back live, Alberto was working on Neville in the ring. Colter was shown ringside watching intently. Cole labeled Zeb as Albertoâ€s “manager,†to which JBL said heâ€s more like a coach. Cole brought up Zeb managing JBL back in the day (20 years ago during the Blu era). Back in the ring, Neville fought back against Alberto, then cleared him to the floor. Neville nailed a big flip dive right next to Zeb, wowing the crowd.

Back in the ring, Neville walked right into a pin attempt by Alberto for a close two count. Alberto followed right up with a step-up enziguiri to the head for another nearfall. Alberto decided it was time to end the match with the cross arm-breaker, but Neville blocked. Alberto shook him off and nailed a big inside-out clothesline. Alberto missed a corner attack, but then trapped Neville in the corner. Neville, hanging upside down, took a double foot stomp to the chest. Alberto covered for a three count. Afterward, Alberto and Zeb celebrated at ringside.

WINNER: Alberto at 12:03. A bit lengthy for Albertoâ€s first Raw TV match back on the roster. They had the crowd early on, but seemed to lose momentum during the second-half. Also surprising to see Albertoâ€s first attempt at the cross arm-breaker blocked when there was a chance to re-establish Albertoâ€s finisher after being off TV for over a year.

Up Next: The losers from Hell in a Cell face off when the Dudleys and Ryback face the PPV pre-show heel trio.

[Commercial Break at 9:37]

Back from break, WWE ran footage of Lucha Dragons and a heel, The Miz, leading a B.A. Star rally at James Madison Middle School.

In-ring: Ryback was introduced first for the babyface loser trio. The Dudleys were out next as their tag partner. Rusevâ€s music followed to bring out Rusev waving his Bulgarian flag. King Barrett was out second, followed by Sheamus still holding on to the MITB briefcase.

[Q8]

5 — FACE LOSERS (RYBACK & THE DUDLEYS) vs. HEEL LOSERS (SHEAMUS & KING BARRETT & RUSEV) — six-man tag match

Before the bell sounded, chaos broke out in the ring. JBL acknowledged this as the “loserâ€s bracket,†so everyone is mad tonight. He added that all six men are furious about losing last night. Nice job turning a negative into positive for this match. Things eventually settled into a one-on-one situation to get the opening bell.

To the shock of no one, Devon was isolated by the heels. Ample in-and-out tags, then Devon received encouragement from a “Get the Tables†crowd chant and tagged in Ryback. Eventually all six men found themselves in the ring. The Dudleys and Ryback stood on their feet chanting “Feed Me More,†then all three smashed the heel opposition. Barrett got the worst of it taking a Whatâ€s Up diving headbutt to the crotch as Ray and Ryback held open Barrettâ€s legs.

The Dudleys called for the tables, which turned out to be their downfall, as Devon and Ryback left the ring looking for tables, leaving Bully vulnerable. After Rusev and Sheamus distracted Ray, Barrett rolled him up from behind and scored a three count with a hook of the tights.

Post-match, Bubba Ray sold shock when his team had the match in the bag. The European Trio celebrated on the stage.

WINNERS: Team Barrett at 6:11.

Up Next: Bray Wyatt addresses taking out The Undertaker at HIAC.

This Wednesday: Samoa Joe is on NXT. And now Joe has a problem with Tyler Breeze.

[Commercial Break at 9:54]

Story Time with Brother Bray

Back live, Bray Wyattâ€s interruption flashed on the screen. Bray was sitting alone in the ring leaning forward in a rocking chair. “For 25 years, The Undertaker has walked among the darkness and the light,†Bray opened. Bray said everyone feared Taker. But, last night, destruction, desolation, vengeance, and fear carried out the soul of the mighty Undertaker. Bray leaned back. Can you feel it?!

After a few readings from Revelations, Bray said he wants to make one thing perfectly clear. He brought up Roman Reigns. He said they will dance once again, but not until he is properly revitalized. And his resurrection will be The Undertaker. Bray said when youâ€ve had a taste of that kind of power, there is no turning back. “You are addicted!†he shouted. Bray said he is feasting on the soul of Undertaker and he wants more. “I have to have more! I need more!†he shouted. Bray said he will not stop until he vanquishes Undertaker and turns him into mere bones on the ground so that he can ascend to his throne.

[Q9 — third hour] Bray paused and chuckled. He said that right now, somewhere, Takerâ€s soul is being ripped to shreds piece by piece. So, tonight, he wants to ask everyone in this arena to bow their heads. Because he wants to have a moment of silence for the man who has lost his soul to him. Bray removed his hat, looked down, and said, “Rest In Peace. Phenom.†Bray shook as his eyes remained closed.

Suddenly, Kaneâ€s pyro shot off. The crowd popped as Big Red Kane marched down to the ring, having heard enough. Cole noted that Kane is Takerâ€s brother. “What is he out here for?†Cole wondered aloud. Suddenly, Brayâ€s video interruption played. The lights came back on and all four Wyatts were in the ring. Kane fought off Harper and Rowan, then went face-to-face with Braun Strowman. Kane got in some offense, but Harper cut him off from behind. Kane then low-bridged Strowman out of the ring.

Kane was alone in the ring with Bray Wyatt. Bray charged Kane and walked right into a chokeslam, but Harper and Rowan made the save. Strowman then attacked Kane from behind, leading to Harper & Rowan delivering a big double chokeslam. The announcers talked about Kane walking into a trap from Bray as the foursome continued to beat down Kane. Saxton chimed in with a note about Bray revealing something about himself that he is consumed by power. Brayâ€s music then played as the Wyatts hoisted Kane in the air and carried him out of the ring in the position of a cross, like Taker last night. Brayâ€s interruption flashed again, sending Raw to break.

[Commercial Break at 10:06]

Backstage, cameras followed the Wyatts as they dragged Kane down a smoky portion of the backstage area. Bray was singing “Heâ€s got the whole world in his hands†as they continued to remove Kane from the premises.

In-ring: New Dayâ€s music played to bring out Big E. and Kofi Kingston for the second time tonight. Kofi and Langston danced in the ring, then Dolph Zigglerâ€s music played to bring out Big E.â€s old friend for a high-stakes singles match.

Before the bell sounded, The Miz – check that, Tyler Breezeâ€s theme interrupted. Their pre-music intro noises sound too similar. Breeze, joined by Summer Rae, marched out on-stage making his Raw TV debut. Breeze and Summer snapped a few selfies on the stick before Breeze posed on the announce table while glaring at Ziggler. A replay from Breezeâ€s debut on Smackdown was interrupted by a technical glitch, so they cut back to ringside for Breeze and Summer being set up for “VIP seating†at ringside.

[Q10]

6 — DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. WWE tag champion BIG E. (w/Kofi Kingston) — Winner advances to #1 contender main event

Ziggler was thrown off by the presence of his ringside enemies, allowing Big E. to take control of the match. Big E. worked an abdominal stretch to the beat of “New … Day Rocks,†which Ziggler escaped before flinging Big E. to the floor. Kofi suddenly tried to get involved, throwing off Ziggler again. Big E. smashed Ziggler with a clothesline for a nearfall, sending Raw to break.

[Commercial Break at 10:17]

Back on Raw, the match was ongoing while Summer Breeze shared food and conversation at ringside. Big E. continued to wear down Ziggler as Kofi played Xavier Woods talking trash at ringside. Big E. delivered a powerbomb to counter the Fameasser, but only got a two count. Big E. went back to the abdominal stretch, drawing a “Letâ€s Go Ziggler†chant. Ziggler escaped, but Big E. sent Ziggler flying out of the ring with a slingshot.

On the outside, Big E. smashed Ziggler again, then he took a drink from the Summer Breeze VIP section. The drink slowed him down, though, as Ziggler surprised Big E. with a Fameasser for a two count. Big E. shook it off and dropped Ziggler to the mat again before landing a big running splash. Big E. tried to follow up with a big corner attack, but Ziggler avoided, then grabbed Big E. from behind to hit the Zig-Zag. Ziggler covered for the win.

WINNER: Ziggler at 13:53. Good win for Ziggler overcoming the presence of four enemies and Big E., who was impressive in singles action. Big E. is really clicking right now. The only drawback was the match was too busy with Summer Breeze down at ringside, which took the crowd out of the action early on.

[Q11] Backstage: Roman Reigns and Dean Ambrose were shown lounging in the locker room watching TV. Ambrose gave Reigns a pep-talk about being “this close†to the WWE Title until Seth Rollins showed up, then Bray Wyatt showed up. Heâ€s back to that same position now. Ambrose told Reigns to go take it. “Iâ€ve got this,†Reigns said before leaving the locker room.

[Commercial Break at 10:31]

Back on Raw, Titus Oâ€Neil was in the ring standing with breast-cancer survivors. Behind him were various heels and faces, plus Triple H and Stephanie McMahon, for an in-ring speech. Titus said that tonight they become one team rising above cancer. The Prime Time Playersâ€s music played, bringing in Darren Young for a celebratory dance.

Backstage: The Miz did not join the fight against breast cancer, as he was too busy playing the WWE video game. Or, he already got in his p.s.a. quota for the day appearing at an anti-bullying event. Or, heâ€s just a wishy-washy heel. Odd timing regardless. Miz, playing as Stone Cold, won his video game match and celebrated. Suddenly, there was a voice in the background. Suddenly, “Stone Cold†Steve Austin in the flesh walked into the shot, stunning Miz. Austin hyped the video game coming out tomorrow, then the glass broke and Austin turned serious. His eyes had Stunner written all over Miz, but WWE cut away to a graphic promoting the video game release.

Back in the arena, Seth Rollinsâ€s music played to bring out the WWE champion for a closer look at the main event #1 contender match.

[Commercial Break at 10:42]

[Q12] Smackdown plug: Itâ€s the Halloween edition.

In-ring: Dolph Ziggler and Alberto Del Rio completed their ring introductions for the main event. Kevin Owens was out next as Cole plugged The Miz appearing on ESPNews SportsCenter tomorrow night with Jonathan Coachman. Roman Reigns was out last as Rollins welcomed the challenge of facing Reigns if he wins this match because he will beat him just like everyone else heâ€s faced.

7 — ROMAN REIGNS vs. DOLPH ZIGGLER vs. IC champion KEVIN OWENS vs. U.S. champion ALBERTO DEL RIO — four-way #1 contender match to the WWE Title

The match quickly moved to the floor, where Reigns and Alberto paired off. Reigns smashed Alberto face-first into the announce table right in front of Rollins. On the other side of the ringside area, Owens roughed up Ziggler. Owens then smashed Reigns from behind, targeting Reignsâ€s worn-down body. Back in the ring, Owens continued to work on Reignsâ€s mid-section. Reigns then got a burst of energy to fight back against all three opponents in the ring. But, Alberto suddenly smashed Reigns from behind and landed kicks . Reigns shook him off and clotheslined Alberto out of the ring to the floor.

Down at ringside, Reigns stalked Owens for his running double foot dropkick. Same for Alberto as he rested on the announce table. But, Ziggler surprised a worn-out Reigns with a superkick. Ziggler was the last man standing on the outside heading to break.

[Commercial Break at 10:52]

Back from break, Ziggler was now getting roughed up by the heels in the ring. Alberto and Owens took turns working over Ziggler, then WWE showed Reigns selling on the outside. Reigns, exhausted, kind of slumped down to the mat for a brief nap. Rollins had a good chuckle on commentary. Owens did not like seeing Reigns napping in the main event, so he ran to the outside and kicked Reigns against the ring steps.

Back in the ring, Owens and Alberto had a disagreement. Owens tried to calm him down, telling him to breathe and focus on their foe right now, Ziggler. That didnâ€t work, so Owens and Alberto started fighting. Alberto suddenly blasted Owens with the swift kick that ended Cena last night. But, Owens rolled out of the ring before Alberto could pin him.

Reigns suddenly woke up and re-entered the ring to bodyslam Alberto for a two count. Reigns followed with corner clotheslines into an uppercut that cleared Alberto from the ring. He didnâ€t see Ziggler coming, but he did block Ziggler attempting the Zig-Zag. Reigns and Ziggler than had a mid-ring staredown. Reigns landed blows, but Ziggler blasted him with a superkick into a DDT attempt. But, Reigns responded with a sit-out powerbomb.

Reigns wanted the Superman Punch on Ziggler, and he connected, but Alberto shoved Reigns out of the ring and nearly got a three count on Ziggler. Alberto airballed a corner kick, though, and Ziggler hit the Fameasser on Alberto for a close two count. Big gasp in the crowd for the sequence. Rollins said this is what the WWE Title is all about.

[Q13 — over-run] All four men sold in and out of the ring at the top of the hour. Ziggler and Alberto were still in the ring, setting up another exchange. Alberto scored a close nearfall, then Owens returned to the ring to get in the mix. Reigns also got in the mix, but he took a superkick from Ziggler. Owens German-suplexed Ziggler, then nailed the cannonball splash. One for Alberto, combined with Reigns smashing Alberto with his two-foot dropkick from the outside.

Owens and Reigns suddenly had a staredown, and the crowd came unglued. Owens surprised Reigns with a big superkick, then wanted the pop-up powerbomb, but Reigns smashed him with the Superman Punch. Reigns followed right up with the big spear and covered Owens for the pin and the win. Rollins freaked out at ringside, now having to go face-to-face with Reigns for the title.

WINNER: Reigns at 15:01 to become #1 contender to the WWE Title. Exit Cena, Enter Reigns. This was a heck of a main event with some new match-ups and sequences, especially the big Reigns-Owens battle at the end. Ziggler also completed perhaps the best 30 minutes of the year for him, plus Alberto looked inspired in the big match setting. Overall, WWE just created a big money match down the road when Reigns and Owens … I mean Reigns and Rollins … lock up. Yeah, that one. It was also refreshing to see the focus on all five wrestlers (including Rollins) in the mix without The Authority cloud hanging over the proceedings.

Post-match, Reigns caught his breath and soaked in his victory as Rollins sat quietly on commentary. Rollins suddenly snapped out of being stunned and talked confidently about beating Reigns. He vowed to make Reigns his latest victim.

Reigns then left the ring to approach Rollins. Reigns looked down at the WWE Title belt, then Rollins panicked and snatched the belt from the desk. Rollins held it over his shoulder, then Reigns turned his shoulder and patted the belt. Reigns walked off, leaving Seth to check his breathing. They closed with a shot of Reigns half-smiling from ringside six minutes past the top of hte hour.

FINAL THOUGHTS: Easily the best Raw of the fall season. Easily. The show dragged in the third hour due to the girth that is a three-hour Raw, but five matches with title implications, new stars in the mix, fresh match-ups, and stars feeling important made this a good show.

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AEW/Lee South

The 2025 Continental Classic tournament begins this Wednesday on the Thanksgiving Eve edition of “AEW Dynamite,” and while the line up has yet to be officially announced, one man who will likely miss out on competing is Kyle O’Reilly. At AEW Full Gear 2025, O’Reilly once again managed to make Jon Moxley tap in their No Holds Barred match, but was viciously attacked by Moxley after the match was over. AEW President Tony Khan would claim in the Full Gear post-show media scrum that Moxley’s attack will keep O’Reilly out of the tournament.

“After the actions of Jon Moxley and after the hard-hitting match, Kyle O’Reilly will probably be out of action,” Khan said. “It’s unfortunate because Kyle did want to wrestle in the Continental Classic. He was really excited about it, and he’s been breaking through. He’s had some of the biggest wins of his career and I was excited to see Kyle O’Reilly in the field, but I think Kyle’s probably not going to be cleared.”

However, there might be some hope for fans of O’Reilly as Dave Meltzer claimed on a recent episode of “Wrestling Observer Radio” that the injury is just a storyline to sell Moxley’s attack, and that there is every chance that O’Reilly will be in the Continental Classic. “It felt very storyline to me,” Meltzer said. “Maybe the idea was that he would beat Moxley and they wouldn’t put him through the tournament, but they were going to say it like pretending to be in the tournament otherwise…With Kyle O’Reilly, it was very clear that [injury] was storyline.”

At the time of writing, the only men officially confirmed for the tournament are Kyle Fletcher, the IWGP World Heavyweight Champion Konosuke Takeshita, and the winner of last year’s tournament and the defending AEW Unified Champion Kazuchika Okada. The field will officially be revealed before Wednesday night where the first set of league matches will take place.

Please credit the original sources when using quotes from this article, and give a H/T to Wrestling Inc. for the transcription.

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Despite Mark Cuban saying Dallas was not going to trade Anthony Davis because “we want to win,” the expectation around the league is that the Mavericks’ front office — whether the current, interim general managers or the person who gets the job full-time — will at least explore the trade market for AD.

Except, there’s not that much of a market, ESPNâ€s Tim Bontemps said on the Hoop Collective Podcast.

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“The idea of trading Anthony Davis has everyone trained to think, well, they’re gonna get three firsts, two swaps, they’re gonna get two young players and they’re gonna get all this stuff. I shouldn’t say it’s not gonna happen… but, you talk to people in the league, there’s not a lot of teams that are lining up to take on a 35-year-old Anthony Davis making $63 million, and you have to assume that he’s gonna opt into that deal.”

Davis, 32, has a $62.8 million player option for next season. He might be willing to opt out of that year as part of a longer, more lucrative contract extension, but either way, a team that trades for him is taking on an expensive player.

Before any discussion of Anthony Davis trades gets serious, he gets back on the court healthy and plays an extended period for Dallas, league sources have told NBC Sports.

Once on the court, how Davis plays will have an impact on any offers that come in, and Dallas is going to be looking for a bigger return than may be available, as Bontemps notes. In the five games he has played this season, Avis averaged 20.8 points and 10.2 rebounds a game, shooting 52% from the floor overall but continuing to not show a consistent jump shot.

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Maybe the way he plays will pique interest in the 10-time All-Star, but Dallas has to find a team willing to take on all that money (with the Mavericks up against the second apron and not able to take back more money than they send out) and send out a package that can help the Mavericks save face. That is going to be a very small pool of teams.

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A tradition in NJPW seems to be changing.

Most NJPW contracts typically expire after one year, January through January, but some talent continue to talk to the promotion and some contracts arenâ€t signed until a few months later. But some in NJPW have told Fightful in a new report that their contracts extend past January of 2026, so contracts may not necessarily expire at the start of the year anymore moving forward.

The report also noted that free agents that had spoken to Fightful said they never heard back from the company when they expressed interest in working there. One person, who was said to be a ‘prominent American wrestler,’ said they were willing to work in NJPW for a discount, but never heard back from them.

NJPW has not run as many shows in the United States in 2025 as they have in recent years. Their last show in the country was in May when they held Resurgence at the Toyota Arena in Ontario, California. The company recently announced, however, that they will be holding The New Beginning USA at the Cure Insurance Arena in Trenton, New Jersey on February 27 of next year.

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Bryan Rose

Bryan Rose is an editor from California that has been covering professional wrestling for well over a decade. He officially joined F4WOnline as an editor in 2017.

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