Browsing: Rhodes

Seeing Cody Rhodes have so much success makes Arn Anderson feel like a proud uncle.

The two aren’t related by blood, but Anderson has been close with the Rhodes family since he and Cody’s late father Dusty were fierce in-ring rivals. Anderson — who has known Cody since he was young — served as Cody’s on-screen advisor in AEW and also made a special appearance with him at a WWE event last year.

Rhodes is currently on his second reign as WWE Champion, having won the title from John Cena at SummerSlam this August. Busted Open Radio asked Anderson what it was like as a viewer to see Rhodes defeat Cena (who Anderson also played a role in mentoring) in that passing of the torch moment.

“Like a doting uncle. Very, very proud of him,” Anderson responded. “Because he did it the right way. He had a tough road to climb being Dusty Rhodes’ son. You know, most people don’t realize, he’s always going to be compared to his dad. That’s not fair, because nothing about him is like his dad was. They were both megastars in different ways, different eras, in different times in the business. I would just say his dad would be very proud.”

Rhodes’ next title defense is set for WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event on November 1. He’ll be facing off against Drew McIntyre.

On November 20, Anderson is scheduled to make an appearance for MLW at a live special in Charleston, South Carolina. His son Brock Anderson is part of the MLW roster.

Exclusive access to podcasts and newsletters

previous story

Source link

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

WWE SMACKDOWN REPORT
OCTOBER 17, 2025
SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA ATSAP CENTER
AIRED LIVE ON USA NETWORK
REPORT BY ERIC CORBRIDGE, PWTORCH CONTRIBUTOR

Commentators:Vic Joseph, Corey Graves

Ring Announcer: Mark Nash

Attendance:Wrestletix reports that 9,988 were distributed headed into the show. The arena was set-up for 10,850.

[HOUR ONE]

– Vic Joseph welcomed everyone for the 14th time to Smackdown in San Jose, California. Highlights were shown of Seth Rollinsâ€s watch-assisted victory over Cody Rhodes at Crown Jewel last Saturday. They also showed C.M. Punk winning a triple threat match to become the number one contender for the World Heavyweight Championship and The Vision turning on Rollins from Monday Night Raw.

Smackdown General Manager Nick Aldis was standing in the ring and welcomed the audience to Smackdown. He announced that the matchup tonight between Drew McIntyre and Jacob Fatu would be a number one contenderâ€s match for the WWE Championship held by “this manâ€. The Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes made his way to the ring wearing a suit, an overcoat, and some silly looking glasses that he probably thought looked cool.

The announcers were shown and Vic Joseph welcomed back Corey Graves to the table since the last time he was seen on television he was being F-5â€d by Brock Lesnar. Back in the ring, Cody Rhodes soaked in some fan chants as has become customary. He acknowledged that Seth Rollins defeated him for the Crown Jewel “Championship†and said that they donâ€t need to be in the ring together again. Cody mentioned that Rollins has his own issues to handle with The Vision now, while Cody handles Smackdown business, which tonight will include a number one contenderâ€s match. Cody asked if it would Drew McIntyre winning and the crowd booed, but before he even announced Jacob Fatuâ€s name they started chanting for him since heâ€s from near San Jose. Cody said that the road to Saturday Nightâ€s Main Event in two weeks. runs through San Jose.

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: Although he only indirectly said it, it appears that Cody will defend the WWE Championship against the winner of tonightâ€s number one contenderâ€s match at the next SNME.)

– Solo Sikoa and the MFTs walked up to Rey Fenix in the back who was in the middle of a photo shoot. Solo told the cameraman it was time to take his pictures instead, which Fenix took offense too. The MFTâ€s attacked Fenix and threw him into a crate before officials came to break it up.

– The WWE Womenâ€s Tag Team Champions Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss entered for their title defense. For the record, Bliss received more vocal cheers than Flair. [c]

The challengers Sol Ruca and Zaria came out after the break to little reaction. NXTâ€s Blake Monroe was shown standing in the front row. Monroe will challenge Sol Ruca for the NXT North American Championship at Halloween Havoc next Saturday.

(1) CHARLOTTE FLAIR & ALEXA BLISS (c) vs. SOL RUCA & ZARIA – WWE Womenâ€s Tag Team Championship MatchÂ

Flair started things off against Ruca. Joseph noted that Ruca has held the North American Championship for 180 days. A big boot dropped Zaria on the apron. Flair rammed Ruca into the turnbuckle and tagged in Bliss, who immediately came in and hit a spinning headscissors. Ruca tagged out and Zaria fared no better as Bliss dominated with strikes and a dropkick. They countered each other a few times including Zaria escaping a Sister Abigail attempt. Zaria planted Bliss with a chokeslam as they went to a split-screen. [c]

Ruca and Zaria dominated with double-team maneuvers during the break. Monroe was shown sitting in the front row again. Zaria momentarily lost her footing climbing to the top rope with Bliss. Bliss kicked her off and tried to make the tag but Zaria pulled her back to their corner and tagged Ruca back in. Ruca gave Bliss an around-the-world faceplant. The challengers attempted a double-team maneuver but Bliss moved and managed to make the hot tag this time. Flair jumped off the top rope with a cross-body on both opponents, then took them to the Flair chophouse by repeatedly striking them with knife-edges. Flair kipped up and gave Ruca a crotch-chop. Flair covered Zaria for the first two-count of the match ten minutes into it. Ruca springboarded in and surprised Flair with a flying clothesline. Ruca hit a German Suplex but then got caught coming off the top rope.

Flair sinched in a Walls of Jericho (that Joseph mistakenly called a Boston Crab). Ruca recovered and hit the Soul Snatcher and covered for a one…two…Bliss saved her partner. Zaria threw Bliss to the outside. Zaria flung Bliss into the barricade. Flair came out to help her but it distracted her long enough Ruca to hit a moonsault off the top turnbuckle to the floor onto Flair. It mostly missed though. Monroe mockingly cheered on Ruca from ringside. Flair took advantage and chop blocked Ruca. Flair threw Ruca into the ring and locked in the Figure Eight with a bridge. Ruca tapped out.

WINNERS: Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss via pinfall in 13:00. Flair and Bliss retained the Tag Team titles.

After the match, Monroe was laughing at ringside. The champions shook the challengers†hands in the ring.

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: The dreaded distraction caused Ruca to lose focus and ultimately she paid for it. This was a sales pitch to get people to watch the Halloween Havoc match. I really appreciated that neither team went for a cover until 10 minutes into the match. That should happen more often because it make a wrestler look weak when they kick out at 2 when theyâ€ve barely endured any damage. And yes, I know the argument can be made that they could kick out at 1 if they wanted to, but they may want to have an extra second to breathe or something. I think that is silly.)

– Cody Rhodes bumped into Jacob Fatu walking in the back. Fatu welcomed him to the Shark Tank and said that when he was done dog-walking Drew McIntyre all across the Bay area then Cody will get to learn that heâ€s all gas and no brakes. Cody said he hoped he was right.

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: Check, check, check, check. Fatu got all his catchphrases in as usual.)

– Aleister Black was up next. [c]

– In a pre-tape, Aleister Black said he was proud that heâ€d been calculated in setting up Damian Priest and aligning with his wife Zelina Vega. Vega was with him and also said it was always the plan. Black said they are a necessary evil.

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: They are an intriguing act that feels very fresh. Hopefully they capitalize on it.)

– The MFTâ€s beatdown of Sami Zayn and Shinsuke Nakamura from last weekâ€s Smackdown was replayed.

– The Miz was in the back with Aldis, asking him to think big about something. Sami Zayn walked up and questioned why he isnâ€t having an Open Challenge match tonight. Aldis said it was for two reasons. The first was that he wanted Nakamura to get a rematch but heâ€s in Japan this week. The second was the concern about the MFTs. Zayn protested that, saying that he canâ€t just hide in the back and be intimidated by them. Zayn said the United States Championship means something to him, to the other wrestlers, and to the fans. Zayn said he was going to the ring now to defend the title. Miz heard it all and smiled. [c]

– The United States Champion Sami Zayn made his energetic entrance for his latest Open Challenge. As made obvious by the previous segment, The Miz came out to be the challenger. But Carmelo Hayes attacked him from behind, just like Miz did to him before. Ilja Dragunov made his surprise return as the actual challenger!

(2) SAMI ZAYN [c] vs. ILJA DRAGUNOV – Open Challenge for the United States Championship

Graves explained that Dragunov was back after being out for a year recovering from a right knee injury. Joseph pointed out that Zaynâ€s eyes indicated this was a shock to him.  Dragunov was pumped up and called for the fans†approval. The opponents shook hands and then immediately traded blows. Dragunov leveled him with a shoulder block. Zayn attempted a suplex, but Dragunov escaped. They countered a few moves until Dragunov hit Zayn with a big enziguri and a running big boot in the corner. [c]

Zayn clotheslined and covered Dragunov for a two-count. They traded chops and strikes again, resulting with Zayn playing possum in the corner. Zayn capitalized by hitting a DDT and charging in for a Helluva Kick. But Dragunov caught him with a jumping kick to to the head and covered for a nearfall. Dragunov hit a German Suplex and held on. Zayn tried to escape with elbows but ate another one. Zayn escaped a third attempt with a  roll-up for another good nearfall. Zayn hit a German Suplex of his own and held on, hitting a second. Graves pointed out that Zayn kept his head out of the reach of Dragunovâ€s elbows, which prevented him from being able to break his grip. Dragunov escaped a third attempt and powered Zayn up with a modified back suplex/driver.

[HOUR TWO]

Dragunov jumped off the top but rolled through when Zayn moved. Zayn caught him in a Michinoku driver and covered for yet another two-count. The announcers pointed out that as the match keeps going Zayn has the advantage because heâ€s in ring shape, while Dragunov just came back from injury. Both men were on the apron. Zayn held Dragunov up for a suplex but ended up dropping him shoulder-first on the bottom rope as Zayn continued to the floor. It looked brutal on Dragunov. [c]

Both grapplers were perched on the top rope. Dragunov push Zayn off and jumped off with a senton and cover for another nearfall. Joseph questioned how on earth Zayn could kick out of that. Dragunov lifted Zayn up to the top again, but Zayn put his hand out to prevent Dragunov from meeting him up there. Dragunov was relentless though and got back up, superplexing Zayn to the mat. Dragunov called for his H-bomb finisher but Zayn got a boot up. Zayn missed a Helluva kick attempt and Dragunov hit a suplex and covered for a two-count. Dragunov hit a knee to the face and literally fell on Zayn for a two-count cover.

With both men on their feet, Dragunov escaped a Blue Thunder Bomb attempt, then recoiled off the ropes with a 619 and Constantine special clothesline that turned Zayn inside out. Dragunov was fired up and went for another H-bomb but Zayn caught him with a boot again and hit a Blue Thunder Bomb. Zayn covered but again Dragunov kicked out at two! Dragunov struggled to get to his feet as the fans chanted “holy sh*t†in disbelief. Zayn called for the Helluva kick but Solo Sikoa showed up on stage. Solo shook his finger at Zayn and walked back behind the stage. Back in the ring, Zayn caught Dragunov with an exploder suplex in the corner but once again Dragunov interrupted the Helluva kick attempt with a Torpedo Moscow flying headbutt and an H-bomb. Dragunov covered for the one…two…three!

WINNER: Ilja Dragunov by pinfall in 19:00. Dragunov is the new United States Champion.

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: That was an incredible match. The pacing was great, the action was non-stop, their moves were crisp and well-executed. Dragunov fired up many times and Zayn was resourceful in the ways he avoided some of his opponentâ€s attempts. The Blue Thunder Bomb nearfall worked very well since over the last two months Zayn established that he could win a match with it. More of that please. Zayn is the perfect babyface who ultimately lost because he chose to be a fighting champion. I still suspect that there will be bigger plans for him moving forward as we approach Wrestlemania season. Congratulations to Dragunov for his stellar return after being out for a year.)

Dragunov celebrated his win as the announces said it must feel great for him after being out for so long. Zayn looked to be about to congratulate him, but the MFTâ€s stormed the ring and beat them both down. Solo called the shots of his MFT group, who were all wearing face paint again. Rey Fenix came out to help but Talla Tonga caught him jumping off the top rope and choke-slammed him to the mat. Solo had a microphone and asked the fans if they forgot that the MFTs run Smackdown and he will make them all champions again.

The creepy music of the Wyatts played and the lights went dim. Bo Dallas appeared on the big screen and asked the MFTs if they were prepared for what awaits on the other side of the door. The rest of the Wyatt Sicks appeared on the apron behind the MFTs. The MFTs turned around and they had a staredown as the fans chanted “holy sh*t†again. The Wyatts got in the ring and the MFTs backed out the other side.

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: Itâ€s frustrating that in todayâ€s WWE there are so many shades of grey. Just when you think the Wyatts are babyfaces they act like heels, then they do the exact opposite, then they flip it and reverse it. You confused? Yeah me too.)

– Highlights of the Crown Jewel match between Tiffany Stratton and Stephanie Vaquer were shown. Vaquer won that match with a corkscrew splash and the Crown Jewel “Championship.â€

WWE Womenâ€s Champion Tiffany Stratton was asked by Cathy Kelley whether her loss would be setback. Stratton said that she is still the Champion and one loss wonâ€t define her. Kiana James interrupted and said she represents Giulia because sheâ€s a better investment than Stratton. Stratton said that James latched onto Giulia because of the old saying “those who can, do, and those who canâ€t…represent.†James said she was perfectly capable of getting it done in the ring, so Stratton challenged her to a match next week. James accepted. A graphic showed that Stratton has the highest win percentage of any WWE Superstar in 2025 (.944, 17-1 record).

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: Cool statistic to highlight. They could do so much more with stats.)

– Footage aired from an “earlier today†pre-tape where the Motor City Machine Guns were celebrating their 1-year anniversary in WWE. Los Garza walked up and mocked them. The Machine Guns recalled that they defeated Lost Garza in their first match a year ago, so they should do it again tonight.

The Motor City Machine Guns and Los Garza entered for the next match.

(3) THE MOTOR CITY MACHINE GUNS (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) vs. LOS GARZA (Angel & Berto)Â

Los Garza immediately distracted Shelley as Angel took control. Sabin made a blind tag and hit Angel with a dropkick from the top rope. Sabin wiped out both of Los Garza with a dive through the ropes to the floor. But when Sabin tried to get back in the ring Berto grabbed his feet allowing Berto to kick Sabin in the face. Joseph speculated that the success Los Garza recently had in AAA has helped their confidence. Shelley tagged back in and missed a splash in the corner when Berto pulled Angel to safety. Los Garza double-teamed Shelley and celebrated themselves in the ring. [c]

Berto was still in control of Shelley after the break. Shelley managed to hit a desperation neckbreaker but and tagged in Sabin. Sabin hit a cross-body off the top on both opponents. The action was fast and furious. Sabin earned a nearfall with a crucifix pin on Berto. The Guns hit a double hip toss on Berto followed by dueling spin kicks. Berto took advantage of Angelâ€s help and leveled Sabin with as sit-out powerbomb and cover for a nearfall.  Angel tagged in and went for a modified Gory special. Berto tagged in and flipped over the top rope with a double team move and cover for a two-count. Berto leaped over the top rope and leveled both Guns on the outside. Berto rolled Sabin back in and Lost Garza went for a double-press slam but Shelley pulled Sabin down. The Guns connected with their Skull and Bones finisher and Shelley covered Angel for the pin and the win.

WINNER: The Motor City Machine Guns by pinfall in 10:00.

– Fraxiom were show in the locker room having watched the previous match. Nathan Frazer said they need to do something to make an impact. But Axiom said they should be patient.  DIY, with Candice LeRae walked in and made fun of them. Tomasso Ciampa said they had been away so that The Street Profits couldnâ€t blame them when they lost. They segued into talking about what they were going to wear for Halloween. Johnny Gargano tried to grab Axiomâ€s mask. Axiom stopped him and said they could meet him in the ring anytime he wanted.

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: Who let Candice in the menâ€s locker room!? Standards people! .)

– Jacob Fatuâ€s music played. But before he could enter they cut to commotion in the back. Fatu was laying under a big piece of scaffolding with a lot of blood coming out of his mouth. Nick Aldis ran up to help him and asked someone to call for medical. [c]

Fatu was trying to recover as Aldis asked him what happened. Drew McIntyreâ€s music played. Aldis heard it and walked away from the scene of the crime. The announcers pointed out that McIntyre was grinning from ear to ear as he approached the ring. Joseph said they were at a loss for words.

McIntyre grabbed a microphone and said “San Jose, it appears that your boy Fatu is all gas no brakes.†He told the referee to raise his hand as the new number one contender. The referee hesitated. Nick Aldis came out on stage and told McIntyre not to say another word. Aldis said that if he finds out that McIntyre had anything to do with that… but McIntyre cut him off. McIntyre said he had nothing to do with it and that he better make him the number one contender. Cody Rhodes came out yelling “Enough!†Cody said that they needed to give the fans something right now. Cody said they should just have a championship match right now.

Cody and McIntyre began brawling at ringside, while Cody was still wearing his dress clothes. They inexplicably went to a split-screen right as it started. No bell had rung to indicate an actual match. [c]

They were still brawling as the announcers said they had no idea what was happening. Both men got in the ring and Cody called for the bell to ring. It was now an official match with seven minutes remaining in the program.

(4) CODY RHODES [c] vs. DREW MCINTYRE  – WWE Championship Match?

Cody missed a corner splash and McIntyre tossed him with a belly to back suplex completely across the ring. McIntyre pummeled the prone champion. Cody got to his feet and tackled McIntyre but was quickly overpowered. McIntyre suplexed Cody. McIntyre took too long to follow up, giving Cody time to recover. Cody sent McIntyre into the corner and hit him with corner punches. Corey Graves wondered again whether this was a championship match or not, since Cody mentioned it. McIntyre dropped Cody with a Future Shock DDT and cover for a two-count.

Graves pointed out that McIntyre could smell blood and Joseph wondered whether Cody was trying to get the stench of losing at Crown Jewel off him. McIntyre beat Cody down in the corner until the referee threatened a disqualification. Cody tried to gain a spark and traded a few chops before being overpowered again. Cody had another flurry and hit a Cody Cutter. Cody fired up and went for a dive through the ropes, but McIntyre caught him with a forearm and then sent Cody over the barricade. Cody grabbed the WWE Championship belt and waffled McIntyre with it. The referee called for the bell.

WINNER: Drew McIntyre via disqualification in 5:00. Cody Rhodes is still the Undisputed WWE Champion.

After the match, Cody cleared off the announce table. McIntyre raked Codyâ€s eyes and wanted to put Cody through the table. Cody escaped and was about to put McIntyre through the table with a Cross Rhodes, but officials, including Aldis, broke it up. During the ensuing fracas, Cody dove off the top rope onto McIntyre and a bunch of officials. The officials held McIntyre back as an enraged WWE Champion stood in the ring.

(Corbridgeâ€s Analysis: That was a very chaotic final 15 minutes. We can assume McIntyre is lying about having nothing to do with the Fatu attack, but there is also a chance that someone else did attack him. Solo and the MFTs are always a possibility. Or it could be someone else. It is still unclear whether that was a Championship match or not, but in this case itâ€s actually okay because the confusion was part of the story. Even the on-screen authority figure Nick Aldis was trying to make sense of what was going on.

Most of what ended up happening was because the Champion Cody Rhodes demanded it. That could be very interesting because Cody doesnâ€t exactly have an alibi for the Fatu attack either. We can assume he also had nothing to do with it since heâ€s a top babyface. HOWEVER, he ultimately did get to get his hands on McIntyre because of what happened to Fatu. AND Cody used a heel tactic by hitting McIntyre with the championship belt leading to the disqualification. All in all, it was a compelling segment.

Lastly, I thought the announcers were tremendous tonight. Joseph and Graves did a great job explaining the motivations of the wrestlers, particularly in the Zayn/Dragunov and Rhodes/McIntyre matches. It made sense that Cody might want to quickly bounce back from his tainted loss to Rollins, while McIntyreâ€s face did make him look guilty of the attack. Great job all around.)

Â

Â

Source link

Friday’s episode of “SmackDown” featured shocking turn after shocking turn, and the main event was no different. After Jacob Fatu was brutally attacked by a currently-unknown assailant ahead of his Number One Contender’s match against Drew McIntyre, WWE Universal Champion Cody Rhodes stormed the ring to give Drew McIntyre what he wanted: absolute carnage, only thinly veiled as a shot for “SmackDown’s” world title.

After asking to be named as the new Number One Contender, McIntyre came face-to-face with an irate champion, who berated “The Scottish Psychopath” for cheating the city of San Jose out of their main event. Rhodes took it upon himself to give the crowd the match they deserved and, in his three-piece suit and dress shoes, began to slug with McIntyre. San Jose cheered as the violence between the two men spilled into the crowd, and while Rhodes laid on the most punishment during their brawl, McIntyre got a few choice hits in as the men returned to the ring to officially start the match.

The bell rang, but the formality did not bring an end to Rhodes and McIntyre’s explosive chaos. Rhodes’ chest hung out of his unbuttoned shirt as McIntyre laid chops onto him, but even after a Cross Rhodes and a Future Shock DDT, both men were left standing. Their violence spilled onto the outside, where Rhodes knocked out McIntyre with the title the Scot so desperately desired. Despite the referee’s disqualification call, the violence continued as Rhodes attempted to put McIntyre through the announce table with a Cross-Rhodes.

WWE’s security forces and Nick Aldis could do nothing to curb Rhodes’ rage, as Rhodes pursued an escaping McIntyre. Rhodes punctuated “SmackDown’s” main event by pummeling his rival (and the accompanying security detail) with a top-rope dive.

As of writing, whether McIntyre will be entitled to a rematch against Rhodes remains unclear.

Source link

Our WWE SmackDown results for tonight include Sami Zaynâ€s United States Open Challenge, Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes returns to address his Crown Jewel defeat, Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss defend the WWE Womenâ€s Tag Team Championship against NXTâ€s Zaria and the Womenâ€s Speed and NXT Womenâ€s North American Champion, Sol Ruca, and Drew McIntyre battles Jacob Fatu. Hereâ€s our review and grades for tonightâ€s show, live from the SAP Center in San Jose, California.

WWE SmackDown Card:

• Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes Returns
• WWE Womenâ€s Tag Team Championship Match: Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss (c) vs. Zaria and Sol Ruca
• Drew McIntyre vs. Jacob Fatu

WWE SmackDown Results:

As the show kicks off, SmackDown GM Nick Aldis is in the ring. Aldis announces that the winner of the Drew McIntyre vs. Jacob Fatu match is now a number one contenderâ€s match. That match will be against this man. Aldis points to the stage, and Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes‘ music hits.

The Champion Returns

The crowd sings for Rhodes as he stands in the ring and takes it all in. Rhodes notes that Seth Rollins beat him for the Crown Jewel Championship. After all of this, Rhodes doesnâ€t think he ever needs to be in the ring with Rollins ever again. Rhodes knows it doesnâ€t work like that, but Rollins has the Brons and an Oracle to deal with. While Rollins deals with that, Rhodes is going to handle his business. Will it be McIntyre or will it be Fatu? The battle at Saturday Nightâ€s Main Event runs through San Jose!

Grade: B

Solid and quick promo. Itâ€s always best when these things donâ€t run too long. Itâ€s interesting that we got so many reports today that the main event would be changed to Rhodes vs. McIntyre due to Fatu being injured. So far, it seems that was a crock of you know what. Letâ€s see how it plays out.

Backstage, Solo Sikoa has his MFTs beat up Rey Fenix.

NXTâ€s Blake Monroe is in the crowd to watch the next match.

WWE Womenâ€s Tag Team Championship Match: Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss (c) vs. Zaria and Sol Ruca

This event is ongoing. This information will be updated as the event progresses.

Read More: Jacob Fatu Could Miss Extended Time Due To Injury

WrestleZone features weekly audio and video content on Facebook, YouTube, and your favorite podcast apps like Apple, Spotify, and SoundCloud. Subscribe now for hours of exciting wrestling content, including exclusive interviews, previews, reviews, and more!

Subscribe Now:

Source link

WWE Crown Jewel Highlights:WWEâ€s Premium Live Event, Crown Jewel 2025, took place at the RAC Arena in Perth, Western Australia, Australia. This was the first time in WWEâ€s history that the Crown Jewel event took place outside of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, since its inception in 2028. In the 2024 Crown Jewel, WWE introduced a new concept of Crown Jewel Champions, where both Men’s and Womenâ€s World Champions from each brand will face each other for the Crown Jewel Championship. The first-ever Menâ€s Crown Jewel Champion was Cody Rhodes, and the first-ever Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Champion was Liv Morgan.Â

WWE has been building multiple storylines for this premium live event, and the Crown Jewel 2025â€s full match included an Australian Street fight between Roman Reigns and Bronson Reed. This show also featured many historic matches like John Cena vs AJ Styles, the Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship match, and Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky vs the Kabuki Warriors. Yesterday on SmackDown, it was already announced that the main event for this show will be the Menâ€s Crown Jewel Championship match between Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins.

WWE Crown Jewel Highlights:

Roman Reigns vs Bronson Reed

The 2025 Crown Jewel Premium Live Event was kicked off with the Australian street fight match between Roman Reigns and Bronson Reed. This match went on for 20+ minutes, and received â€This is Awesome†chants from the audience multiple times. We also saw many great moments in this match, including Roman using a cricket bat to attack Bronson Reed. At the end of the match, Bron Breakker interfered in the match and attacked Reigns, after Usos came out to save their cousin, but Jey Uso accidentally speared Roman. With that, Bronson Reed took advantage and delivered a Tsunami to Roman Reigns to secure the biggest victory of his career via pinfall. After the match ended, there was a segment where Reigns said to Usos, “I donâ€t wanna you both till Christmas.â€

Stephanie Vaquer vs Tiffany Stratton

The WWE Womenâ€s Champion, Tiffany Stratton, faced the WWE Womenâ€s World Champion, Stephanie Vaquer, for the Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship. This match went on for 15+ minutes, and both Stratton and Vaquer performed very good in this match. At the end of the match, Vaquer delivered a corkscrew moonsault to Stratton and secured the victory and the WWE Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship via pinfall. After the match, Triple H came out to congratulate her, and after that, Vaquer delivered an emotional promo saying, thank you to everybody in the WWE universe.

John Cena vs AJ Styles

John Cena faced AJ Styles for the last time in a one-on-one match. During Pre Crown Jewel Show, Styles also announced his retirement from WWE, stating that next year will be his last year in professional wrestling. This match went on for more than 30 minutes, and during this match, we saw John Cena and AJ Styles incorporating moves from many other Superstars. Cena used moves like Wall of Jericho, Skull Crushing Finale, Aqualite, and RKO. AJ Styles used moves like Angel’s Wings, Sweet Chin Music, and Scorpion Death Drop. During this match, we saw both these legendary wrestlers kicking out of every move, and the crowd started chanting “This is Awesome†and “Fight Forever†multiple times. At the end of the match, Cena used a Tombstone Piledriver and then an AA to secure victory in this match via pinfall.

Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky vs the Kabuki Warriors

After weeks of build-up, we finally saw Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky face the team of Kairi Sane and Asuka in a tag team match. As Rhea Ripley made her entrance, she received a huge pop from her home audience. At the end of the match, Sane saved Asuka from a big boot, and after that, Ripley pulled Asuka back in the ring, and Iyo Sky delivered her moonsault to Asuka and secured the victory for her team via pinfall.

Cody Rhodes vs Seth Rollins

As it was already advertised, the WWE Undisputed Champion, Cody, faced the WWE World Heavyweight Champion, Seth Rollins, in a one-on-one match for the Menâ€s Crown Jewel Championship. This match went on for almost 40 minutes, and at the end of the match, we saw Rollins using the watch that Rhodes gifted to him at WrestleMania 40 to punch Rhodes, and then delivered 2 curb stomps. With that, for the time in his career, Rollins defeated Rhodes in a one-on-one match and also won the Menâ€s Crown Jewel Championship. After the match, Rollins delivered a promo stating that tonight he proved that he is the greatest wrestler in this company. This show went off air with both new Menâ€s and Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Champions standing tall in the ring.

FAQs

Q. Who won the Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship?

A. In the Crown Jewel 2025, Stephanie Vaquer defeated Tiffany Stratton to win the Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship.

Q. Who won the Menâ€s Crown Jewel Championship?

A. In the Crown Jewel 2025, Seth Rollins defeated Cody Rhodes to win the Menâ€s Crown Jewel Championship.

Q. Did Jey Uso betray Roman Reigns at the 2025 Crown Jewel PLE?

A. Jey Uso accidentally speared Roman Reigns, which resulted in Bronson Reed defeating Roman Reigns. After the match, there was visible tension between Jey Uso and Roman Reigns.

Q. Why did Liv Morgan not participate in the Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship?

A. Liv Morgan won the Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship at the Crown Jewel 2024 PLE. She didn’t participate in the Crown Jewel 2025 because she is currently injured.

Q. How can I watch the Crown Jewel highlights in India?

A. Crown Jewel highlights can be watched in India via Netflix.

Get the Latest Cricket Updates at IceCric.News. Also, Follow Our Social Media for live updates on Facebook and Instagram.

Source link

Seth Rollins finally did what he couldnâ€t do in three previous tries — he beat Cody Rhodes one-on-one, and he didnâ€t hold back after the win.

Rollins closed out WWE Crown Jewel 2025 in the main event at Perthâ€s RAC Arena, defeating “The American Nightmare†to become this yearâ€s Menâ€s WWE Crown Jewel Champion. With their rivalry dating back years and Rhodes holding a 3-0 singles record over him, the pressure was on Rollins to prove he could finally get the job done.

And he did — by any means necessary. In a cold twist, Rollins used a watch that Cody had given him after WrestleMania 40 to smash Rhodes in the face. That weapon shot helped The Visionary finally pin his biggest rival and cement his leadership of The Vision faction, which includes Paul Heyman, Bronson Reed, and Bron Breakker.

Speaking directly to WWE cameras right after the match, Rollins didnâ€t bother holding back.

“Thereâ€s nothing else to say. I told you so. I told everybody.â€
“What I do with The Vision is for them, not for me. Iâ€m the king around here. I proved that s**t tonight.â€

It wasnâ€t just Rollins making moves for The Vision either. Earlier in the night, Bronson Reed pulled off a rare feat by pinning Roman Reigns in their Australian Street Fight — a victory few in WWE history can claim.

With Rollins now holding the win heâ€s chased for years and The Vision stronger than ever, the balance of power in WWE may have just shifted in a big way.

Was Seth Rollins justified in how he beat Cody Rhodes? Or did the use of the gifted watch cross a line? Let us know where you stand in the comments.

Source link

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

WWE CROWN JEWEL PERTH
OCTOBER 11, 2025
PERTH, AUSTRALIA
STREAMED LIVE ON ESPN (U.S.) & NETFLIX (Internationally)
REPORT BY WADE KELLER, PWTORCH EDITOR

Commentators: Michael Cole, Wade Barrett

Ring Announcer: Alicia Taylor

-They opened with the video of the transport of the Crown Jewel Title belts from Saudi Arabia to Australia.

-Michael Cole introduced the show as they aired footage of wrestlers arriving including Bronson Reed & Paul Heyman, Cody Rhodes, Stephanie Vaquer, A.J. Styles, Asuka, Kairi Sane, and Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky.

-Rhea Ripley narrated an introductory video for the event touting the international popularity of WWE with footage of the various countries WWE has visited.

-Pyro blasted in the arena. Cole touted the attendance of 13,683.

(1) ROMAN REIGNS vs. BRONSON REED (w/Paul Heyman) – Australian Street Fight

Reed and Heyman made their entrance. Cole said for Reed, this is a dream come true to compete in his home country. Fans sang “Roman… Roman Reigns!” as soon as Reed’s music stopped. Cole said Reigns told Pat McAfee that they were going to go head-to-head into the wall “Goldberg-style.” Cole talked about Reigns’s long title reign and said he headlined ten WrestleManias, more than anyone.

The bell rang and they had a staredown to start. Fans chanted, “OTC!” Reigns got the better of the opening slugfest He clotheslined Reed over the top rope to the floor. Heyman walked swiftly away from Reigns after Reigns dropped to ringside. Reigns then hit the Driveby. They went into a walk-n-brawl in the crowd. Reigns used a cricket bat against Reed, which the fans loved. Back in the ring, Reigns bashed Reed across his ribs with the cricket bat.

Reigns played to the crowd at ringside with Reed at ringside. Reed recovered and went on the attack. Cole said Reigns celebrated too long. Barrett agreed. Cole talked about Reed’s history on the Australia indy circuit before he went to the U.K. and Japan and made a name for himself. Reigns soon fired back with a kendo stick attack. Reed strutted and twirled the stick before bashing Reed across his chest with the stick. Cole noted Reigns was enjoying himself while it appeared Heyman was on the verge of a heart attack.

Reigns grabbed the house mic, he said, “Perth, if you want tables, acknowledge me!” Fans chnated “OTC!” Reigns stomped on Reed and then pulled a table out from under the ring. He threw a cricket ball toward Heyman through the ropes, but the ball hit the ropes. Reed recovered during that time and threw Reigns into the ringside steps. Fans booed. Reed then slide the table back under the ring. (I love when a heel is looking for actual heel heat and refuse to use the ladder, since the ladder is such a babyface spot.) Reed picked up the top of the ringside steps and charged at Reigns and bashed him in the head with it twice.

Reed continued the attack at ringside and back in the ring, including bashing Reigns with a chair. He wedged a chair in the corner. Reigns made a comeback a minute later by countering Reed and driving him through a chair behind him with a Samoan drop. Both were down and slow to get up.

Reigns bashed Reed with a barrage of forearms against the ropes. Cole said it’s the most intense and active he’s seen Reigns in months. Reigns landed a flying clothesline. When he went for a second clothesline, Reed caught him and then landed a sudden Jagged Edge for a two count. Reed bashed Reigns with a stop sign next. Reigns resisted, but Reed pulled off a uranage onto the sign.

Reed went for a senton, but Reigns moved and avoided it. Both were down and slow to get up. Reigns hit a Superman Punch for a two count. When Reigns signaled for a spear, Reed rolled to ringside. Reigns ran around the ring, but Bron Breakker showed up from the crowd and speared Reigns. Barrett said it’s legal in this match. Cole said he was wondering when Breakker was going to show up. Barrett said, “The dogs are loose and running wild.” Breakker and Reed powerbombed Reigns through the table at ringside.

Reed set up a table in the ring and leaned it in the corner. Breakker began to drag Reigns back to the ring when the Usos’ music played. They came out to more than even the odds. They superkicked Breakker in the aisle as he charged at them. They went after Reed in the ring next including stereo superkicks and then stereo hip attacks. Fans stood and cheered. They gave a 1D to Breakker.

Breakker recovered and pressed Jey over his head and then dropped him over his knees. Barrett was amazed that Breakker was fine after taking a 1D a minute ago. He said he had amazing powers of regeneration and now was “fresh as a daisy.” Breakker then ran around ringside and speared Jimmy into the ringside barricade. Fans barked and then chanted “Holy shit!”

Reed recovered and then climbed to the top rope and set up a Tsunami on Jey. Reigns intervened and gave Reed a Superman Punch. He played to the crowd. He fended off Breakker on the ring apron. Reed then recovered and lifted Reigns. Jey Uso went for a spear on Reed, but Reigns escaped first and Jey ended up spearing Reigns inadvertently through a table. Cole called it “a miscommunication,” which wasn’t quite the right word for it. Jey looked panicked as he realized what he did. Breakker then speared Jey. Barrett said that’s why Reigns said he didn’t want the Usos out there. Breakker dragged Reigns into position and then Reed landed his Tsunami for the win. Cole called it the biggest win in Reed’s career.

As they replayed the closing sequence, Cole noted again that Reigns had said he didn’t want the Usos involved in his business.

WINNER: Reed in 21:00.

-As Reigns and the Usos sat up, Reigns looked at the Usos. “What did I tell you?” Reigns angrily said. “The whole world thinks I can’t do shit on my own. I told you I’d do this on nmy own.” Jimmy said, “We just wanted to be there for you.” Reigns said, “This ain’t the old times, man. This only works one way.” He told them he loves them, but he doesn’t want to see them until Christmas. Jey lectured Jimmy afterward and stomped away frustrated and dismayed as Jimmy watched from the ring.

(Keller’s Analysis: It’s good to see Reed wasn’t booked to lose, as that was the easy way out to have the bigger star overcome the odds and win over the lesser member of The Vision. That said, there are some absurd and mitigating aspects to this, although they won’t matter much because of how WWE is good at framing things exactly how they want fans to perceive things. But the rules of the match themselves where anyone can interfere makes everything that happened before it feel relatively meaningless. If winning is important, and if winning “counts” if you have help, why wait 16 minutes before interfering? Also, Reigns feels more stubborn than sympathetic when he gets mad at the Usos for trying to offset a two-on-one attack, especially when clearly the reason it backfired was due to an obviously inadvertent spear. That said, the storytelling here matters more than the logic because the backstory and execution of the latest developments is done so well. I’m still not entirely sure where this all is going and where it lands, but I hope they don’t damage or destroy the fans positive feels for three babyfaces in the process through the in-fighting.)

-Cole thanked Green Day for the song “One-Eyed Bastard.” (Grammar Nerd Moment: “One Eyed Bastard” without the hyphen, as Green Day actually spells it, indicates there’s “one bastard who is ‘eyed,’ indicating one bastard in particular has at least one eye” But with the properly-included hyphen for the compound adjective, it indicates there’s “a bastard with one eye,” which is clearly what they meant. Don’t get me started on Oasis’s album, “Standing on the Shoulder of Giants.” They tried to say the singular of “giant” was intentional, but I never bought it.)

(2) STEPHANIE VAQUER vs. TIFFANY STRATTON – Crown Jewel Championship match

Cole said this match was for the Crown Jewel Championship “and bragging rights for the next year.” Barrett noted that Tiffany has proven herself over the last year against a variety of opponents, and Vaquer has to do that now if she wants to build similar stature. Barrett said Tiffany has more experience in WWE at this level and she might be the best athlete of anyone in WWE. “Quite simply, nobody can match her,” he said. Cole said Vaquer “has it all and can fight with the best of them.” He said she’s crafty and can grapple and fly when she wants to. Barrett said the unknown about Vaquer is a big advantage. “Does she still have tricks up her sleeve she can surprise Stratton with?” Barrett asked. Cole said his answer is yes because she has been successful all over the world. Cole noted that Tiffany stepped into a wrestling ring for the first time just four years ago.

Tiffany avoided a charging Vaquer a few minutes in. Vaquer stayed in control, though. She applied an abdominal stretch. Tiffany punched out of it. Tiffany then landed a back suplex. Both were down and slow to get up. Tiffany landed an Alabama Slam out of a cartwheel. Vaquer took over and took Tiffany down with a Dragon Screw. She climbed to the top rope seconds later, but Tiffany shoved her down. Vaquer followed with a springboard into the ring, but her knee gave out. Tiffany then delivered a suplex into a backbreaker for a two count. Fans applauded, a sign of appreciation from the fans for the action thus far.

Vaquer made a comeback with a suplex and yanked her up by her hair. Fans cheered, anticipating a Devil’s Kiss. Tiffany rolled up Vaquer to avoid a Devil’s Kiss. Cole said Tiffany seemed really crisp. He said she told her she felt she had something massive to prove. Tiffany leaped off the top rope with a flip senton, but Vaquer lifted her knees. She then delivered Devil’s Kiss. Barrett said he kept his eyes closed for that one and has no comment. Cole said he got in trouble last time. Tiffany went for the Prettiest Moonsault Ever, but Vaquer moved. She then landed her corkscrew splash for the clean win.

WINNER: Vaquer in 10:00 to become the Crown Jewel Champion.

-Paul Levesque put the belt on her and raised her arm and hugged her. Fans chanted, “You deserve it!” She teared up and said they made history together tonight. Fans cheered. She said the belt is beautiful and represents the motivation and love fans have given her. She said she followed her dream. “You believed in me, so now I believe in me,” she said.

(Keller’s Analysis: Good match. Short, so therefore not epic. But if that’s a teaser for future battles, that’s a good sign. It was nice at this stage having the fans cheering both, if if they turn Tiffany heel at some point, the match will take on something extra next time.)

-Backstage, Heyman congratulated Reed. “Tribal Thief over Tribal Chief,” he said. He said when people talk about the vision of the future of the industry, they’ll talk about both of them. Heyman was about to walk away, but then stopped and said if at some point in the main event, if Seth flails his arms toward the locker room and begs for them to help him, don’t do it. He said it ‘s a meritocracy and they need to find out who is better between Seth and Cody. He said he’ll start making preparations for a victory party. Heyman left. Breakker asked Reed what happens if Cody wins. Heyman heard that and said, “I think you both know the answer to that.”

(Keller’s Analysis: They’re doing a good job playing up the idea of Seth losing and there being a big fallout as a result, which adds uncertainty to the outcome.) [c]

(3) JOHN CENA vs. A.J. STYLES

Styles got a nice reception. Cena got a huge pop. Cole noted this is one of just five dates left for Cena. Taylor introduced Cena as “the greatest of all-time” and “the last real champion.” (This is just so selfish of Cena and counterproductive of WWE; that was a line designed to get heel heat for a villain who wanted to break the lineage of the WWE Title and claim all future champions are invalid, and Cena turned babyface and they’re still going with that line? I’m just baffled by this decision.) Cena handed Taylor a piece of paper with a note on it. Fans chanted, “Thank you, Cena!” It looked like a Nashville Predators’ crowd with all the yellow Cena t-shirts in the crowd. Taylor then read a gracious introduction for Styles that Cena presumably wrote that included calling him “the definition of total non-stop action” and “the ace and undisputed boss of The Bullet Club” and “the ace that runs the place.” Styles smiled and nodded. Cole said every athlete wants to end their career on their terms and that’s what Cena is doing. Fans chanted, “Holy shit!” Barrett said Cena wanted to test himself against the very best rather than be a nostalgia act.

Styles opened with a side headlock. Cole talked about their history against each other in WWE. Fans chanted, “This is awesome!” Styles got the better of an early exchanged and played to the crowd. Fans chanted, “TNA! TNA!” Styles broke clean in the corner. Fans chanted, “Fight forever!” Barrett said Cena doesn’t want to close out his Hall of Fame career on a losing streak. Cena went for a sudden Attitude Adjustment, but Styles slipped free and took over. Cena rolled to the corner of the ring after kickout at two. Styles hit a flying clothesline in the corner and then a flying forearm for another two count. Barrett said Styles has dominated early “just like the Brock Lesnar match.” He said maybe Cena has hit a wall in his career. (This early framing kind of gave away that Cena was going to win.)

Cena made a comeback and signaled for the You Can’t See Me routine, but Styles upkicked him. Cena one-armed slammed Styles seconds later, though, and did his You Can’t See Me and Five Knuckle Shuffle and Attitude Adjustment for a two count. (As much as fans were cheering Cena, they didn’t want to see the match end that early.) Fans chanted, “This is awesome!” Styles dropped Cena out of a fisherman’s buster onto his knee. Cena countered Styles’ next move into a Skull Crushing Finale for a near fall. Barrett and Cole noted Miz was upset on social media about not having a match against Cena.

Styles put Cena in a torture rack and then slammed him down for a two count. Styles landed a Scorpion Death Drop for a two count. Cena wiggled his fingers and winced. Styles set up a Styles Clash, but Cena slipped out and applied an STFU. Styles slipped out seconds later and applied a crossface. (Man, did Styles’s application look better than Cena’s.) Cena escaped and applied an Accolade. Fans chanted, “Rusev Day!” He shifted into a Coquina Clutch. Styles then applied a Walls of Jericho. A “Y2J! Y2J!” chant rang out. Styles escaped and rolled Cena into a Calf Crusher. Fans chanted, “This is awesome!” Barrett said, “This is the greatest hits of professional wrestling.” Cena shifted into an STF. Styles kicked out and delivered a Styles Clash and then shifted to a pin attempt for a two count. Both were down and slow to get up as fans chanted, “Fight forever!” Barrett said they’re both in agony and want to win, not fight forever.

Styles was first to his feet and signaled for a Phenomenal Forearm. Styles caught him and gave Styles a kiss on the forehead and a Sister Abigail for a two count. Fans pulled out the phone flashlights. Cena sat up and looked around and nodded. Cole said Cena had a great relationship with Bray Wyatt “as he was coming up in the system.” Fans chanted, “Thank you, Wyatt!” Cena set up an AA, but Styles countered into an Angel’s Wings for a near fall. Fans chanted “This is awesome!”

They stood and exchanged punches and chops as the crowd yelled after each. Cena set up a Pedigree, but Styles blocked it and landed a Dead Eye (“vertibreaker”). The announcers did not call the move by name. Barrett called it “a move John Cena just absorbed.” Cena gave Styles a draping DDT. Cole exclaimed, “Vintage… John Cena!” Fans chanted, “RKO!” Cena pounded the mat and then came at Styles once he stood and landed an RKO for a near fall. Barrett said, “I don’t want this match to ever end. Please keep going. What a treat.” Cole siad it’s turning out to be an all-time classic.

Cena then got a sinister look. Fans chanted, “Holy shit!” He charged with a stomp attempt, but Styles moved and landed an AA on Cena for a near fall. Barrett said this is like a video game where you create a character and give them everyone’s finishing move. Cole said, “This is why we do what we do, for moments like this, to celebrate this great sport.” Fans chanted “Fight forever!” Styles signaled for You Can’t See Me, but Cena grabbed his hand and delivered an Undertaker chokeslam for a two count. Barrett said the match “has just blown my mind.”

Cena then avoided a charging Styles and set up a 619, but Styles popped out of the corner and hit Cena with a clothesline. Styles kicked Cena to the mat and then landed a slingshot springboard 450 onto Cena’s chest. Styles stomped the mat and hit Cena with Sweet Chin Music for a near fall. Barrett said there will never be another match like this one ever. Cole asked, “Are there any moves left?” Barrett asked Cole what his move was. Cole said, “The ank-Cole lock.” Barrett said that would ruin the experience. (They are allowed to use a move more than once, right? That’s be an interesting match stip, though, if you could only use a move once in the entire match.)

Styles hit his Phenomenal Forearm on Styles for a two count. Cena set up an AA, but Styles elbowed out of it. Cena hit the AA anyway for a near fall. “Are you kidding me?!” exclaimed Cole. (When Cole is that after a kickout of a signature finisher, they are really close to the finish of the match.) Fans chanted, “This is awesome!” Cena and Styles battled on the ropes in the corner. Styles elbowed Cena and shoved him to the mat. He leaped off the top rope. Cena rolled through and lifted Styles for a Tomebstone  and delivered it. He followed with an AA for the win.

Barrett said he wishes every match was like this one. (No, as good as it was, that would be awful if all matches were just two wrestlers doing everyone else’s finishers. I get the spirit of his point, though.) Cena helped Styles to his feet. They hugged. As Styles left, Cole said next year will be the final year of Styles’s career and said this was one of the final matches of Cena’s retirement tour. Cole said Cena has become a movie star and a philanthropist and humanitarian. Cena greeted his wife at ringside. Cena looked like he had been in epic fight as he made his way to the aisle. He soaked up one more crowd pop as fans sang his song.

WINNER: Cena in 27:00.

(Keller’s Analysis: That was a special match, and it wouldn’t surprise me if they had the idea to do this as the inspiration for this match rather than booking the match and then deciding to do this. Some fans are going to name this as their favorite match of all time years from now. The tributes to so many of their past opponents was really cool. They showed enough within this format that I think they could have pulled off a stellar regular match, too. Fans in attendance have something to brag about being eye-witness to. All that said, I like this being the third of five matches and not saved for the main event.)

-They showed Cody Rhodes in the locker room looking like he was getting prepared for an important high-stakes fight. Cole and Seth commented on a graphic showing their years in WWE, total titles, total world titles, and WrestleMania main events. They went to Cole and Barrett on camera. Cole said he wanted to give a standing ovation for the match.

(4) RHEA RIPLEY & IYO SKY vs. THE KABUKI WARRIORS (Asuka & Kairi Sane)

As Asuka and Kairi made their entrance, Cole said Kairi was actually cowering and hiding behind him yesterday at the Kickoff Show. Cole said the Asuka-Kairi relationship is toxic and borderline abusive. Barrett said Asuka has a domineering personality whereas Kairi is more of a wallflower. Ripley got a big pop, of course, for her entrance. Cole talked about her history in the indy scene in Australia through her February 2024 match against Nia Jax. He said she’s going to try to follow what Reed accomplished earlier in the night.

When the bell rang, Kairi and Asuka charged at Rhea and Sky. Barrett said you have be ready when the bell rings or you can end up in the hospital. Cole said Iyo and Asuka grew up together in the Japanese system in a tag team and become best friends as they came to WWE and NXT in the United States. Cole said he believes Sky is the vest wrestler on the planet today. Barrett said he wouldn’t argue with that. Fans chanted “Iyo! Iyo!” as she rallied against Asuka early.

With Asuka at ringside, Styles dove through the ropes and tackled her. Cole called it “a suicide dive.” Kairi intervening opened up Asuka to kick Sky. Barrett noted Ripley was back on her feet after “her bell was rung” early in the match. The ref stopped Ripley from getting involved at ringside. Asuka entered the ring first and then Iyo just beat the count. Kairi tagged in and scored a two count on Sky. Cole said she appears to have been successfully brainwashed by Asuka. Barrett said she appreciates Asuka bringing her to the top of WWE.

Asuka tagged in and verbally berated Sky. Asuka and Kairi double-teamed Iyo. The ref was occupied by trying to keep Rhea from charging into the ring. Kairi landed a stomp off the top rope onto Iyo who was hanging upside down in the corner. That led to a two count. Asuka kicked Sky hard in the chest a few times. Sky popped up and showed fire. “Iyo switching gears!” exclaimed Cole. They swung wildly at each other. Iyo face-planted Asuka and then crawled over and hot-tagged in Ripley. That got a big pop.

Ripley went after Kairi, who also tagged in. Asuka tried to interfere, but Ripley dropkicked her. She then kicked Kairi on the side of her head and scored a two count. She followed with a Razor’s Edge attempt. Kairi slipped free. Ripley fended off Asuka and kicked Kairi. She then tagged Iyo back in. She landed a Razor’s Edge. Sky then leaped off the top rope with a missile dropkick for a near fall.

A minute later, Asuka interrupted Sky’s set-up for an Over the Moonsault on Kairi. Ripley went after Asuka at ringside, but Kairi slidekicked her from the ring. They threw Ripley into the ringside steps next. Sky springboard moonsaulted onto Asuka and Kairi at ringside as they were gloating.

Back in the ring, fans sang “Iyo… Iyo Sky!” She hit Kairi with two knees in the corner and then set up her Over the Moonsault. Asuka interrupted the count. Ripley returned to the ring and officially tagged in. She lifted Kairi onto her shoulders. Asuka shoved Sky off balance on the top rope. Kairi scored a leverage two count on Ripley in the ring. Ripley came right back with a Rip Tide, but Kairi slipped free.

Asuka held Ripley for an Insane Elbow by Kairi. Sky interrupted the subsequent count. (These break-ups of covers are weak, by the way.) A “This is awesome!” chant broke out. Sky dropkicked Asuka off the top rope. All four were down for a while. Fans clapped.

Ripley rallied and dropped Asuka face-first over the top turnbuckle. Ripley played to the crowd and then headbutted Asuka. she set up a Rip Tide off the second rope, but Kairi tagged herself in. Ripley then kicked Kairi off the ring apron to ringside. The kick was headed for Asuka, but Kairi shoved Asuka out of the way. Ripley then gave Kairi a Rip Tide. She tagged in Iyo who landed an Over the Moonsault for the win.

WINNERS: Ripley & Sky in 20:00.

(Keller’s Analysis: Really good tag team match. It was cool to have Sky score the pin instead of Ripley even though it was Ripley’s home country. Asuka is likely going to be upset at Kairi for taking the pin and unappreciative of Kairi saving her for getting kicked by Ripley.)

-Cole plugged the early start time for Raw (8 a.m. ET in the U.S.) which includes Bayley & Lyra Valkyria vs. Roxanne Perez & Raquel Rodriguez and Dominik Mysterio vs. Penta.

-They cut backstage where two men in suits treated the Crown Jewel Championship belt like the Stanley Cup or something, locking it up in a case and carrying it to the ring. (This is just too over-the-top and seems more farcical than adding any actual prestige to the belt. It feels more “Spinal Tap” than Stanley Cup.)

(5) CODY RHODES vs. SETH ROLLINS – Crown Jewel Championship match

Seth came out first, alone and to his usual theme. Cole noted Seth has never defeated Cody in a one-on-one match-up. Fans pelted Seth with a “C.M. Punk!” chant as Seth slowly took off his entrance outfit. Cole said Seth’s outfit includes patches of cloth from gear he wore in his prior matches against Cody. He made a big production of taking off his watch, too. Barrett said it’s a reminder for Seth of the demons he was trying to exorcise tonight.

Seth showed early frustration after early Cody offense and paced at ringside. Fans chanted “Wanker!” at him. When he returned to the ring, Cody had a counter for everything Seth did. Barrett said everything was going terribly for Seth. Cody landed a Disaster Kick, knocking Seth off the ring apron. Seth fumed at ringside. “Seth Rollins is unraveling before our very eyes,” said Barrett as he criticized Seth going for an early Stomp and early Pedigree.

Seth went after Cole and Barrett at ringside. Barrett backed away and Cole cowered. Cody attacked Seth at ringside. Seth whipped Cody into the ringside stairs, though, and finally got in a stretch of offense. Seth leaped off the ringside barricade and stomped on Cody’s back. Back in the ring, he scored a two count. Cole said Seth was “acting desperately.” Barrett said that desperation was starting to play into his favor.

Seth countered a Disaster Kick attempt into a sitout powerbomb. Cole said Seth is one of the best on the planet, but he has let Cody get in his head. “His entire career has been ego, about nobody but himself,” he said. Seth yelled at Barrett, then turned to trash-talking Cody. Fans chanted, “We Want Barrett!” Barrett said, “Well, you’re not getting him.”

Seth cut off a Cody comeback with a Dragon Screw. Seth did a cartwheel and then stuck his tongue out at Cody. Barrett said that was a little bit of Stardust there. Cole said it’s screwing around and a sign of sudden overconfidence. Seth went for a Bionic Elbow, but Cody blocked it. Seth applied a figure-four seconds later mid-ring. Cody reversed it, so Seth grabbed the bottom rope to force a break. A “C.M. Punk!” chant started again. (I’m sure Cody’s love that.) A “F— him up, Cody, f— him up!” chant then started.

Cody landed a vertibreaker. Barrett called it by name here and gave a shout out to Hurricane Helms. Cody landed a snap powerslam on Seth followed by a Disaster Kick. He threw a series of punches and a Bionic Elbow. He then dove through the ropes and knocked Seth into the ringside barricade. Cody then landed a Cody Cutter mid-ring. Seth kicked out at two.

Seth came back with an enzuigiri and a Pedigree for a near fall. Seth landed a Crossroads for a two count. Seth absorbed the moment as they went to a wide shot of the scene. Barrett said Seth is starting to realize he might not be a leader and might always be in second place. (He is the World Champion.) Cody ducked Seth and went for a top rope Cody Cutter. Seth ducked and hit a Pedigree and a Stomp for a dramatic near fall. Cole said Seth has to be wondering what he has to do in order to put Cody away. Fans chanted, “This is awesome!”

Seth noticed something and marched to ringside. He examined the Crown Jewel Title belt. He then walked over to the watch. He put it on his knuckles. Barrett said Cody gave it to Seth at WrestleMania 40 when Seth assisted Cody “climbing to the pinnacle of the industry.” Seth entered he ring, but Cody recovered in that time and kicked a charging Seth. Cody then landed a Cody Cutter and a Crossroads for a very near fall. Cole wondered if Cody was starting to question himself. Barrett said Cody has to find something else in his playbook.

Cody climbed to the to rope. Seth knocked Cody off balance. Seth hung Cody upside down in the corner and then leaped off a top turnbuckle with a Coast-to-Coast flying headbutt into Cody for a near fall. Fans chanted, “Holy shit!” Barrett said Seth had a hard landing, too, pointing to his left arm and shoulder that absorbed the landing.

Seth placed Cody on the top turnbuckle and then gingerly climbed to the second rope. Cody punched Seth and knocked him to the mat. Seth leaped to the top rope and landed a Spanish Fly followed by a uranage for a near fall. Fans chanted, “This is awesome!” Seth climbed to the second rope. Cody knocked him off balance. Seth kept wincing and holding his left arm.

Cody delivered a top rope Cody Cutter. That was pretty precarious looking during the set-up. Cody scored a dramatic near fall. They stood and exchanged wild swings. Cody threw a series of front kicks and then set up a Crossroads. Seth blocked it. Cody then went for a Pedigree, but Seth slipped free and then picked up the watch in the corner of the ring. Cody kicked Seth who bumped into the ref, knocking the ref down. Seth blocked a Cody Cutter with a shot to the head with the watch on his knuckles. Seth landed a Stomp and then climbed to the second rope. When Codyh stood, Seth landed a leaping stomp for the three count.

Cole said that Seth used the watch to get his first career win over Cody. Barrett said he was in mental ecstasy.

WINNER: Rollins in 30:00.

-Levesque entered the ring and presented Rollins with the belt and the Crown Jewel ring. Cathy Kelley approached Seth for an interview. He said he didn’t need her to ask a question because he knows what she was going to ask. “How does it feel to get that monkey off your back?” He said it feels better than any of them can imagine. “Some of us dream impossible dreams and some of us have the fortitude to achieve those dreams!” he said. “He said there is only one man who reaches higher than the highest.” He said he proved tonight he is not just the greatest of his generation, but the greatest of all time. He said he is a revolutionary and visionary. Cole quipped, “Thank goodness, he is humble.” Cole wondered what Seth, Heyman, Breakker, and Reed have planned as the vision of the future. Pyro blasted as Seth celebrated some more. Vaquer entered the ring and stood next to Seth as they showed off their respective belts.

(Keller’s Analysis: A really good match on a night with all good matches. They had created quite a bit of intrigue over the internal turmoil that would result of Seth coming up short that it felt more possible they’d see that through with another frustrating loss for Seth. It added extra drama. Seth either legit hurt his left arm or was selling very effectively after that Coast to Coast headbutt.)

[Note: ESPN really needs to fix this thing where when the live event ends, and if you started watching late, it just stops the show until 15-30 minutes later they load the replay and then you have to start over again.]

Source link

Seth Rollins is the new Crown Jewel Champion.

The Architect went into the latest WWE PLE with a lot of questions. Having never beat Cody Rhodes in singles action, Rollins had a lot to prove in this main event match both to his fans and The Vision faction.

The Heavyweight Champion did not leave any stone unturned in his quest, and he busted out a number of high-risk moves to try and put the WWE Champion away.

When the American Nightmare refused to quit, however, Seth was forced to use the object the whole feud was built around – the Rolex watch gifted to him by Cody after WrestleMania 40.

Seth Rollins had hesitated in using the watch he wore to the ring to his advantage earlier in the match. He finally gave in to the temptation and quietly grabbed it from the ringside.

The World Champion first knocked the referee out with a push and then hit Cody with the watch as the Quarterback went for a Cross-Rhodes. Seth then hit his opponent with not one but two stomps to finally pick up the victory.

Triple H came out to award him the Crown Jewel title as well as the diamond ring, and the show ended with Seth Rollins standing tall with Stephanie Vaquer who won the Women’s Crown Jewel title match earlier in the night.

Source link

WWE SmackDown Highlights:This episode of WWE SmackDown was a special TV episode that took place at the RAC Arena in Perth, Western Australia, Australia. This episode was a go-home show for the upcoming premium live event, Crown Jewel, which will take place in the same arena on 11 October. This premium live event will have a special start time in India. Fans in India can watch it live on Netflix at 5:30 PM IST on 11 October.Â

This episode of SmackDown featured many great matches and shocking moments. We saw Sami Zayn calling out the SmackDown roster for another United States Championship open challenge. We also saw the continuation of the feud between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre. It was already advertised that Aleister Black will face Damian Priest in a Last Man Standing match in the main event of this SmackDown episode.

WWE SmackDown Highlights:

Cody Rhodes starts the Show

Cody Rhodes started the show, and he addressed his upcoming match against Seth Rollins for the Crown Jewel Championship at the Crown Jewel premium live event. Cody said that he is not the only quarterback in the company, and he mentioned names like Randy Orton, Roman Reigns, and Jey Uso, saying that they also carry the same weight as he does. Rhodes then said he is the only person who is above the level of Seth Rollins, and he is also the only person that Rollins can never defeat.

Sami Zaynâ€s U.S title Open Challenge

On this week’s episode of SmackDown, Sami Zayn delivered another open challenge for his United States Championship, and it was answered by Shinsuke Nakamura. Nakamura came out to the ring on his old theme and character, which received a huge pop from the Australian audience. The match went on for 20+ minutes, and received “This is Awesome†chants from the audience multiple times. At the end of the match, we saw Tama Tonga return with his old face paint look similar to his New Japan look, and after that, the rest of the members of the MFT also came out and attacked Sami Zayn and Shinsuke Nakamura.

Drew McIntyre attacks Jaco Fatu

During a backstage segment, Jacob Fatu was talking to Cody, saying that after he is done with Seth Rollins, he is next in line for an opportunity for the WWE Undisputed Championship. After that, Fatu was brutally attacked by Drew McIntyre. Later in the show, it was confirmed that Drew McIntyre will face Jacob Fatu in a one-on-one match next week on SmackDown.

Tiffany Stratton & Stephanie Vaquer vs Giulia & Kiana James

As it was confirmed last week, Tiffany Stratton & Stephanie Vaquer faced the team of Kiana James and the Women’s United States Champion, Giulia, in a tag team match. The match went on for 15+ minutes, and at the end of the match, Stratton delivered the prettiest moonsault to Kiana James to secure the victory for her team via pinfall. After the match, Tiffany Stratton & Stephanie Vaquer stood face to face with each other, raising their titles. Tiffany Stratton & Stephanie Vaquer will face each other for the Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship at the Crown Jewel premium live event.

treet Profits Vs the Wyatt Sicks

The Wyatt Sicks defended their WWE Tag Team Championship against the Street Profits. At the end of the match, Lumis and Gacy delivered the Plague to Montez Ford and secured the victory via pinfall. After the match, we saw all the members of MFT confront the Wyatt Sicks, and during this face-off segment, the crowd chanted “Holy Shi*tâ€. This segment will eventually lead to a Tag Team Championship match between MFT and the Wyatt Sicks.

Aleister Black vs Damian Priest Last Man Standing match

As it was already announced, Aleister Black will face Damian Priest in a Last Man Standing match on this episode of SmackDown. This match went on 20+ minutes, and we saw the use of Steel Steps and Kendo Sticks in this match. At the end of the match, Priest and Black were in the middle of the audience, where we saw the return of Zelina Vega. She distracted Priest, and Black threw a fireball into the face of Priest and then delivered a Black Mass kick. After that, the referee counted to 10, and Priest couldn’t get up on his feet; with that, Aleister secured the victory in this Last Man Standing match.

FAQs

Q. What happened to the SmackDown viewership?

A.Last week, WWE SmackDown recorded the lowest viewership in the history of the SmackDown, with only around 1.03 million viewers.

Q. Did WWE fire Road Dogg from SmackDown?

A.WWE did not fire Road Dogg as the head writer of SmackDown, but due to the recent backlash, he will join a few other new writers to ensure that the show is enjoyable for the fans.

Q. Is Cody Rhodes a part of the WWE’s Raw roster?

A. Cody is not a part of WWE RAW; he is a part of the SmackDown brand.

Q. Will WWE’s Crown Jewel be streamed live in India?

A. In India can watch WWEâ€s premium live event, Crown Jewel, live on Netflix at 5:30 PM IST on 11 October.

Q. Who is the current WWE Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Champion?

A.Liv Morgan is the current and the first ever Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Champion. However, she is currently injured, and this year’s Women’s Crown Jewel match will take place in Australia, and it will be Tiffany Stratton vs Stephanie Vaquer.

Get the Latest Cricket Updates at IceCric.News. Also, Follow Our Social Media for live updates on Facebook and Instagram.

Source link

Our WWE Crown Jewel results for tonight include Roman Reigns battling Bronson Reed in an Australian Street Fight, Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky teaming up to take on The Kabuki Warriors, John Cena clashes with long-time rival AJ Styles, Womenâ€s World Champion Stephanie Vaquer and WWE Womenâ€s champion Tiffany Stratton facing off for the Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship, and Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes taking on World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins for the Menâ€s Crown Jewel Championship. Hereâ€s our review and grades for tonightâ€s show, live from the RAC Arena in Perth, Western Australia, Australia.

WWE Crown Jewel Card:

• Menâ€s Crown Jewel Championship Match: Seth Rollins (c) vs. Cody Rhodes (c)
• Womenâ€s Crown Jewel Championship Match: Stephanie Vaquer (c) vs. Tiffany Stratton (c)
• John Cena vs. AJ Styles
• Rhea Ripley and IYO SKY vs. The Kabuki Warriors
• Australian Street Fight: Roman Reigns vs. Bronson Reed

WWE Crown Jewel Results:

This event starts at 8 AM EST. This information will be updated as the event progresses.

Read More: AJ Styles Says No Amount of Money Could Make Him Face John Cena Again

WrestleZone features weekly audio and video content on Facebook, YouTube, and your favorite podcast apps like Apple, Spotify, and SoundCloud. Subscribe now for hours of exciting wrestling content, including exclusive interviews, previews, reviews, and more!

Subscribe Now:

Source link