Bryan Danielson returned to AEW for the first time since June’s Forbidden Door pay-per-view and was quickly added to the All Out pay-per-view tonight, seemingly replacing CM Punk in his spot against Ricky Starks.
Starks challenged 70-year-old Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat to a strap match for tonight and Steamboat said he would be facing “The Dragon” at All Out. Starks signed the contract, which said Ricky Starks vs The Dragon, without going over the small print.
Steamboat then told Starks that there’s more than one dragon around here and introduced the American Dragon, Bryan Danielson. Danielson came out to a big ovation and “Yes!” chants from the Chicago crowd and signed the contract too.
Danielson suffered a broken forearm at Forbidden Door against Kazuchika Okada and was deemed not ready for All In. But a week apparently made miracles!
CM Punk was fired from All Elite Wrestling and the employment agreement between him and AEW was terminated effective immediately.
The news was confirmed by AEW President Tony Khan and a press release was issued with details.
The termination follows a week-long internal investigation of an incident occurring backstage at All In on Sunday, August 27. Following the investigation, the AEW Discipline Committee met and later convened with outside legal counsel before making a unanimous recommendation to Khan that CM Punk be terminated with cause.
“Phil played an important role within AEW and I thank him for his contributions. The termination of his AEW contracts with cause was ultimately my decision, and mine alone,” Khan said in a statement.
“Of course, I wish I did not have to share this news, which may come as a disappointment to many of our fans. Nevertheless, I am making the decision in the best interests of the many amazing people who make AEW possible every week – our talent, staff, venue operators, and others whose efforts are unsung but essential to bringing our great shows on television and at arena and stadiums throughout the world.”
Here are the results from last night’s Payback which took place from the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Becky Lynch defeated Trish Stratus in a steel cage match; LA Knight defeated The Miz; Rey Mysterio defeated Austin Theory to retain the United States title; Finn Balor and Damian Priest defeated Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens in a Pittsburgh Steel City street fight to become the new Undisputed WWE Tag Team champions; Rhea Ripley defeated Raquel Rodriguez to retain the Women’s World title; Seth Rollins defeated Shinsuke Nakamura to retain the World Heavyweight title.
AEW Collision tonight comes to us from the United Center in Chicago, Il. After last week drawing 552,000 & 0.16 in the 18-49 demo.
Woooaaaah. Did not expect to check the news and see Punk’s gone. Have to commend AEW for their transparency. Many other companies – *cough* WWE *cough* – would’ve delayed the announcement until after they were well clear of Chicago.
*****
Tony Khan appeared to announce the toughest decision of his career – he’s terminated CM Punk due to last Sunday’s incident at All In. Which endangered people backstage, innocent people. He’s been going to shows for 30 years and never has he felt his security, safety, life was in danger till last Sunday. And no-one should feel that way at work. It came after talking to an internal discipline committee and outside legal counsel who were unanimous in their decision.
Last weekend was the greatest in AEW history and they’ll continue the momentum tonight and tomorrow. He cut to a package recapping All In, voiced by Tony Schiavone, pushing tomorrow’s ppv and welcoming fans to Collision.
The Collision theme then played.
(As explanations go that’s a pretty good one. It’s one all but the most hardcore Punk fans should be able to accept. Even if they might argue he was provoked in this instance. And might be right. He also should’ve known better.)
Lights down so clearly a lot of empty seats. Lot of booing and CM Punk chants from a small-sounding crowd. Though they quickly died down as Schiavone spoke. He brought Ricky Starks out to issue his challenge. Starks came with Big Bill and a weight belt. They recapped him whipping Ricky Steamboat. Starks didn’t seem to be remotely a heel to these fans.
He’s challenged the seventy-yeat-old Steamboat for a strap match tomorrow. No DQ. Schiavone asked ‘Are you outta your freakin’ mind?’. Starks snatched the mic, as everyone does from Tony. He said he’s back at square one and talked about obstacles. And he overcomes them and gets better. He’s fed-up of having to start over but he shows up everytime, no matter how many people try to use him or undercut him. It never works because you can’t put a lid on a boiling pot.
He addressed Big Bill. And talked about him overcoming addiction and put him across as a star. ‘I believe in you. And I believe in myself.’ The crowd chanted for Bill. Starks said he’s tired and frustrated and wants to cry but he’s come out and will do what he needs to.
He sat at home and watched All In. Complaining that he missed it cause he ‘whupped’ Steamboat. And he’s not letting another moment slip through his hands so that’s why he’s challenging Steamboat for All Out. He hopes one day Steamboat sees things from his perspective.
(Get that Starks is probably genuinely frustrated at his feud with Punk ending but the fact he can’t actually say it and sounded very babyface here wasn’t great.)
Steamboat’s music hit to a nice pop. He stormed to the ring, a determined look on his face. He said Starks strapped him like a dog. But he didn’t complain. And yet Starks wants a match against him. He said Starks talks a good game and can perform when he wants to (sounds about right).
He contacted legal and had a contract drawn up. The pen will talk and ‘not the mouth’. Schiavone showed the contract which bore Steamboat and Stark’s names. Starks signed quickly. Steamboat showed it to the camera. He said people know him as the Dragon, but they also know this guy: Bryan Danielson’s music kicked in.
Crowd ‘yes’-ing! As Kelly asked what Starks had done and Nigel muttered ‘Oh he’s fine to wrestle now is he?’ (there were rumors McGuinness was going to come out of retirement to face Danielson). Danielson signed the contract. Starks was furious. The crowd chanted that he’d F’d up. Starks crossed himself (nice touch).
But then said if this is the bed he has to lay in, he’s gonna make sure he’s real comfortable. Steamboat said Starks had got what he wanted. Starks fled, Danielson held up Steamboat’s arm and the crowd cheered.
Kelly slammed Starks for attempting to face a 70 year-old as Nigel claimed he’d been hoodwinked.
All in all, a nice way to make a crowd forget about Punk and start the show off hot. Just hope Danielson’s arm is good and he hasn’t rushed back.
*****
Moxley promo. He talked about being a rock around raging seas. Or in other words being Orange Cassidy. The puzzle thirty-one other men have failed to solve. The Cassidy who forged his own path, was never supposed to make it. If he’s a cosplay wrestler who’s he trying to be? Are any of them the ‘winningest’ champ in wrestling?
Cassidy won round one and he can have that. Cause it’s all he’ll get. When you’ve wrestled as long as Mox you wrestle a lot of big matches and there’s always ‘tomorrow’ (figuratively). But the chance Mox has at All Out is ‘once in a lifetime’ because Cassidy’s on the run of a lifetime.
Moxley usually senses he’s won as a match starts. He can smell BS. But Cassidy looks like the real thing. Though he won’t target arms or legs, he’s after Cassidy’s soul, his will, his conditioning. A lot of guys say they wanna be wrestlers but most don’t make it cause it’s so hard.
Sunday it’ll get really, really hard, will Cassidy look for a way out? ‘I really hope not. Lotta people believe in you Orange Cassidy, don’t disappoint us.’
God damn I’ve got chills. Talk about putting over your opponent and building a match. Mox is great.
Acclaimed & Billy Gunn vs Daniel Garcia & 2.0 (Trios Titles)
Backstory: Nada
Parker and Bowen got us going. Gunn and Garcia quickly came in. The youngster snapped a chop to the chest, ducked a wild swing, danced, ducked again, danced again, then told Gunn to ‘suck it’. Gunn hit Garcia so the latter landed face-first in his crotch then performed Garcia’s dance (This dude was Bryan Danielson’s protégé and main evented Dynamite twice this time last year).
Gunn and Bowens hit a double elbow drop, Aubrey was distracted, Garcia recovered and 2.0 stun gunned Bowens then hit a double ddt. Garcia locked in the Dragon Tamer, dead center, the crowd didn’t buy it for a sec. Even after Jake Hager appeared to stop Bowens getting the rope break.
Break.
Back to Bowens fighting out of the heel corner, cut-off twice. Until an enziguri bought the tag to Caster, who hit shots and lariats to all three heels. Before vaulting onto Garcia, sending him back in, to the top, cross body, two.
Garcia came back to hit a uranage. And was about to dance when an irritated Menard tagged himself in. And was smacked with a flying lariat courtesy of Caster. Who tagged Gunn to run through all the faces. So unstoppable he slugged MMA fighter Hager off the apron, immediately shook off an attack from Menard and hit a Fameasser.
Into the Arrival, Mic Drop. Win.
The faces were incredibly over here. But must Billy Gunn always be the hero of the match who never sells and takes the hot tag? He’s in his 60s.
Winner: Acclaimed & Billy Gunn
Backstage to Dark Order with Lexi. I legitimately had to stop and take a breath almost immediately after Silver started by calling Cole ‘Budge’ and saying they used to be best friends but Cole threw it away to team with MJF (all of which took place on BTE. And this is national television. And this match was already a joke).
Reynolds then went ultra-serious, talking about how he helped train MJF and taught him to do what it takes to win. But only one of them took that advice. So tomorrow Reynolds is going to do what it takes to win since they need to win for themselves and the Dark Order to prove all the people who say they don’t deserve this shot wrong. ‘We’re going to beat you because we have to’.
It’s like they planned a comedy promo and a serious promo and got their lines crossed about which they were doing. Reynolds’ was good at least.
*****
Backstage, Tony tried to catch Ricky Starks to ask about facing Danielson tomorrow. Starks again talked about obstacles and overcoming them. Tomorrow he’s going to show why he is what he says he is, Absolute Ricky Starks.
Erm, what does that actually mean? The more Starks talks, the more I think he doesn’t say anything but does so with enough charisma that it sounds better than it should.
Aussie Open vs Nick Wayne & Komander
Backstory: None
McGuinness talked about Jericho & Guevara having issues with the Aussies on Rampage. What a strange team they’re facing here.
Davis ran straight through Wayne, instant tag to Fletcher, Wayne ducked and dodged, hurracanrana to Fletcher, flying forearm, kip-up, tag to Komander. Double dropkick to Fletcher from the faces, Fletcher responded with a bodyslam to Komander.
Davis in, senton missed, Komander did a bunch of flips for no reason until locking in an octopus hold. Davis shook him off, Fletcher blind tag, he nailed the faces with kicks after Davis launched them off his shoulder, they then hit the Aussie Arrow.
Komander kicked out.
Break.
Back to Komander trying to fight his way past Davis to tag. Fletcher tagged in to cut him off but missed an attack in the corner. Wayne in with a flurry: spinning elbow strike, enziguri, running dropkick, sliced bread, Asai ddt, tope con hilo, to the top, frog splash to Fletcher who just kicked out.
Wayne slipped behind, the two blocked and countered until Fletcher landed a half and half suplex. Davis in, finish coming, Komander broke it up, was caught by Davis out of a springboard and hauled up impressively into a piledriver.
Wayne avoided the clothesline sandwich, and another, enziguris and kicks for the heels, Wayne went for Waynes World but was caught into Coreolis as the former ROH champs won.
Good match. Right result too. They’re not forcing Wayne down our throats and the Aussies needed a win after losing last week.
Winner: Aussie Open
Schiavone with Nick Wayne who was doing a great job selling his neck. Schiavone said he had a great career ahead. Wayne said he was frustrated at losing but is more frustrated at Darby forgiving AR Fox for what he did. Allin was straight out. He said he’s known Nick since they were eight. He saw him his first day of wrestling school.
There was a point Allin got in a big fight with Nick’s dad. So hadn’t spoken to him for three years before he passed. And he has to live with that. Fox was one of his trainers too and he refuses to ‘live with the hate’. He suggested Wayne let it go. At All Out he’s fighting for the TNT title and it’d be an honor if Wayne cornered him (uh oh).
Cue Christian Cage. Whose music got quite a pop. He came with his dinosaur as usual. Cage said it was rude of him to talk about Wayne’s dad last week since he forgot to ask the name of Wayne’s mom, a missed opportunity on his part. Maybe he should ‘slide into her DM’s’?
Then asked if Wayne was Allin’s ‘personal pity project’ since he felt guilty over his dad. He should take after Cage since he doesn’t pretend to be something he’s not (classic – Kelly pointed out the hypocrisy). He suggested Wayne carry a towel with him to throw it into the ring tomorrow because it’ll be a one-sided massacre at the hands of the ‘most complete big man in the business’. When it’s done they’ll still be the face of TNT.
That’s an interesting twist inserting Wayne in like this. It makes the finish a little harder to predict.
*****
Claudio and Yuta from Wednesday. Claudio congratulated Eddie on beating the BCC’s youngest member. Which is nothing since they all beat Yuta all the time ( he uppercutted him repeatedly through this interview). But unlike Kingston, Yuta gets back up. Doesn’t blame others.
He thought Japan might change Kingston. He thought he couldn’t lose any more respect for him, but he was wrong.
*****
Eddie and Shibata with their belts. Kingston said Claudio wouldn’t fight him again cause he’s a coward. Kingston asked Shibata what he thought of them – Shibata held up his phone and played a clip saying ‘You both suck’. Kingston laughed and said ‘see ya at the pay-per-view’.
More pretty good build. The whole ‘respect’ angle is very believable considering the way Kingston carries himself.
*****
They recapped the women’s four-way from last weekend. Highlighting the disharmony among the Outcasts. Saraya and Ruby were then with Lexi. Saraya was a total heel again. Great. She said they were stuck back in America and can smell the fans’ breath from backstage. How creative.
Ruby then blew away Saraya’s acting and talking within the first line. Saying Kris Statlander had never beaten her. Then told Lexi not to worry about the Outcasts. And they’ll prove that by taking two titles.
They insisted Toni would be fine but Soho noted she had seen Storm in the parking lot ‘half-naked, throwing shoes at birds’.
*****
Every dictator’s best friend Dennis Rodman was out next. God knows where this is going. Of course he was popular in Chicago having been part of the second Bulls’ three-peat in the 90s. Tony had to turn him round to face the camera. And asked why he was here.
Jeff Jarrett’s music hit. Apparently these two were ‘stable mates’ (do they mean nWo? Cause they weren’t at the same time). The heels shooed Schiavone. Jarrett basically kissed up to Rodman while comparing him to his own guys. Until saying both Karen and Rodman look great in a dress.
Jarrett then talked about them being in one of the greatest factions of all time. He said too sweet and 4-life so apparently they did mean nWo. Jarrett asked him to join their group.
Rodman said it was his first time in Chicago in thirteen years. Jarrett cut him off and made a reference to the 1998 NBA Finals to keep the show extra current. And demanded an answer.
Dutt sent the others away and tried to reason with Rodman. Rodman flung him to the ground. The heels were about to attack when the Acclaimed’s music kicked in. It’s obviously Seniors’ Segment.
Bowens challenged the heels to a match. Gunn said he can’t wrestle twice anymore. But moved the match to tomorrow, with Rodman in their corner (I’ll take that since it means I can skip it since I don’t have to cover it!).
*****
Shane Taylor package calling him the most dangerous ROH TV champ of all time. They showed him destroying people and Taylor said he’d again be the baddest champ in ROH.
*****
Joe said it’d been a turbulent week. He understands that Taylor thinks something great’ll happen tomorrow. But it’s a tale of hopes and wishes. Taylor hopes tomorrow will be his best ever performance, but he’ll wish he hadn’t taken the match. He hopes he’ll get his title back but he’ll wish Joe stops hitting him. He’s going to wish he’d never put Joe’s name in his mouth.
Tomorrow he’ll make it clear who’s the real king of television.
Good work from Joe as usual.
The Outcasts vs Britt Baker, Kris Statlander & Hikaru Shida
Backstory: Britt & Shida had problems when they teamed Weds
Toni was a little late coming out but walked the ramp with the others. She and Saraya were arguing as the match began.
Storm demanded to start against Statlander. An aggressive lockup led to a rope break, each knocked the other down with shoulder blocks, Stat got a quick one count, Storm bailed to the corner, avoided a charge but was caught into a slam.
Storm turned the tables to stomp Statlander in the corner, readied the hip attack, Statlander cut her off, tag to Britt, neckbreaker, whip, slingblade, Storm bailed to tag Ruby. Shida in too. She slugged Ruby but Saraya came in illegally to kick her in the gut. Shida nearly slugged Baker again but stopped short.
Ads. Started well with Storm and Statlander. Those two need to wrestle again. Physical.
Storm and Shida now fighting in the middle, a Storm knee cutting Shida off, the crowd chanting for her, both bagged tags, Statlander and Saraya in, Statlander walloped her with rights, charge in the corner, running knee too, blue thunder bomb, Soho broke the pin at two.
Saraya got a rollup from behind for two but took a kick to the head. All the women just coming in at will now until Statlander got a powerslam on Saraya, Storm tried to break it the pin but hit Saraya after Statlander moved. Britt wailed away on Ruby, blocked No Future, hit a twisting neckbreaker, Soho avoided a Stomp, Saraya sprayed Britt with the paint (the crowd booed but in an ‘again?’ way) and Ruby won.
Groan.
Erm, why doesn’t Shida want her title back? Why wasn’t she pissed off and targeting Saraya? Especially since she never lost it.
Winner: the Outcasts
‘Budge’ was up next for a promo (they didn’t actually call him that) to say the DO boys were an amazing tag team but not as good as he and Max. He then brought up his phone to read some texts Max had sent (Cole actually did a really nice job reading these with MJF’s intonation):
Yes, Reynolds helped train him but it took him nine years to get rid of all the bad habits since he’s the ‘absolute drizzling sh…’ (Cole stopped reading)
Re: Silver, he hadn’t realized they could stack crap that high but actually it’d be fairly easy considering he’s the size of a garden gnome. Cole then refused to read the rest because it was ‘disgusting’.
‘See you boys Sunday… boom’. They’re going all in (NPI) on this being comedic. I’d simply ask which promo out of Mox or Cole was more effective in building a match fans want to see.
*****
Statlander with Lexi. She said she wasn’t feeling great since Soho can’t win without spraypaint and her friends. Ruby and Saraya just happened to be off-camera so stormed in. They got in each other’s faces. Saraya cut them off to yell ‘Shutup you stupid bitch, she’ll see you tomorrow’.
Why wouldn’t that spark a fight? Anyway it didn’t. Statlander just yelled ‘see you tomorrow’ after them. Saraya adds nothing but the basest, most generic heel traits, badly delivered too – smelly breath, spraypaint and ‘bitch’.
Will Hobbs vs GPA
Backstory: None
Hobbs won with the Spinebuster in about ten seconds.
The Redeemer’s music played to a nice pop. He made his full entrance, pyro and all, then slugged it out with Hobbs. Who took a nasty spill to the outside but dragged Miro under the ropes to send him into the barricade. Miro then flung him over it and Hobbs left through the crowd.
Not bad but not enough.
Winner: Will Hobbs
Video package pushing the Omega/Takeshita feud. This was pretty good but it’s baffling that Omega hasn’t said a single word this week to build this match.
*****
Orange Cassidy promo. He said he didn’t want to be talking since he doesn’t like it. But this isn’t just another title defense, it’s everything he’s been working for. His first ever AEW singles match was in Chicago in this building against Pac. Where he proved he deserved to be here.
Then it was Will Ospreay. Where he proved he can go toe-to-toe with the best in the world. Tomorrow, it’s Jon Moxley. ‘Jon Moxley is just the best. He picked AEW up when it was down and put all the weight on his shoulders’ (crowd applauded, notably there’ve been no Punk chants since the start of the show. Not a single one). Tomorrow when he beats Mox, he’s going to take the weight ‘off your shoulders and put it on mine, because I’m Orange Cassidy, I’m the International Champion, and I do not have a catchphrase.’
Damn man who knew Mox/Orange was the best promo battle in the company? Excellent.
Jay White vs Dax Harwood
Backstory: The BCG will face the Bucks & FTR Sunday
White out first with BCG, sans cut-out. JR joined on comms. They recapped the classic tag from Calgary in July, highlighting that FTR won that night. Dax came with Cash (the Bucks are apparently backstage so might get involved) – as they showed FTR defeating the Bucks last week and the ensuing handshake snub.
JR said he didn’t think we’d seen the last of those teams going at it.
Gonna be the usual long one as Kelly and JR did a nice job discussing tags vs singles and whether White had wrestled enough singles lately for it to be an advantage. As usual, White quickly bailed outside. Then came back in to hit a chop, then ran back among his boys at ringside.
The crowd chanted ‘Ass Boys’ as White got back in to lockup. White got a headlock, to the mat, back to their feet, irish whip, Dax fired rights and chops then looked for the Sharpshooter. White again fled as Juice yelled for him to get out the ring.
Ads.
Atop the buckle, Dax looked for a superplex, White flung him off after gouging the eyes then suplexed Harwood into the bottom rope. Before sending Dax out right among BCG; Cash evened things up with a chair.
Back inside, White stomped away on Dax, chops in the corner, Dax snapped back, ducked a wild swing but missed badly on a splash in the corner, stumbling out into a ddt as White got two. White landed another chop before grabbing another headlock, Dax fought free with shots to the gut, slipped behind, O’Connor roll, White kickout, Dax cross body from the middle, count of two.
White hit another chop, Dax landed with his head poking out through the ropes, Juice readied a Left Hand of God, but the ref was right there to warn him off (that was so satisfying after more Outcasts nonsense earlier). Another White knife-edge, Dax fought back with a big lariat and looked again for a superplex.
Landing it this time, leaving both guys down.
Harwood to the apron, to the top, diving headbutt missed, both down once more, White crawled into a cover for two.
Break.
Back to yet more chops, Dax blocked a running right, into a German, standing switches as he looked for another, White slipped free of a suplex and snapped Dax across the ropes but ran back in right into another German and a brainbuster for two.
Piledriver on the way, White again fled outside. This time Dax pursued him, chopping him across the barricade then dragging him back to the ring. Before heading upstairs again, White again bailed but only made the apron – Dax chopped him back into the ring.
White hit a dragon screw against the ropes, backdrop driver, Dax popped up but slumped in the corner, White hit a running back elbow and running DVD for a close call. Sought his uranage, Dax dead-weighted him, White ducked a lariat, Dax shook off one of White’s and absolutely obliterared him with a right.
Then went for a piledriver, White backdropped free, Dax avoided a couple wild swings to hit the piledriver. Kelly was amazed when White kicked out.
Harwood then took White upstairs for a belly to back, White twisted into a cross body for another close call. And immediately looked for the uranage again. Once more, Dax fought it off but was posted shoulder-first, rebounding right into the uranage. But kicked out once more.
Sleeper suplex followed, Bladerunner on the way, Dax grabbed the top rope to block it, hit a slingshot powerbomb, White kicked out but Dax transitioned right into the Sharpshooter but like the tag match didn’t have the leg strength to synch it in.
The two ended up outside, all the guys came together, White used the confusion to nail a Bladerunner outside, fling Dax back in, Harwood managed to grab a cradle after a brief pause, White kicked out, up into another Bladerunner as the right guy won.
AEW needs more matches like this, where one star beats another. There are too many squashes. It also sets up another possible tag clash.
The heels then had Wheeler cornered, Dax still down, when the Bucks’ music hit to (mostly) a pop and the heels legged it through the crowd.
There were definitely strong boos after the music died down. And CM Punk chants as the Bucks offered a handshake; FTR ignored it and left. More pretty good ppv build, all things considered.
Fairly good match overall, White’s stalling and the endless chops got a little repetitive but it built well and the right guy won.
For the second time in a week, AEW will be on pay-per-view tomorrow for All Out live in Chicago.
The following are the early odds for the whole card and tomorrow we will update with the latest numbers. Please bet responsibly.
Will we see a new AEW International champion? Some bookmakers certainly think so as Jon Moxley is favorite with 2/5 odds to win against Orange Cassidy who is 7/4 to retain.
The popular Darby Allin will get a shot at the TNT title currently held by Luchasaurus. Odds are in favor of Allin who is 4/7 at the moment while Luchasaurus is 6/5.
Kris Statlander will defend her TBS title against Ruby Soho and the champion is 8/15 favorite against the 5/4 odds of her challenger.
The ROH Tag Team champions – Adam Cole and MJF – will defend against The Dark Order who won a battle royal last night. Better Than You Bay Bay are 1/10 in odds and clear favorites while it looks like it’s going to be a dark night for The Dark Order who are 9/2.
Samoa Joe will defend his ROH Television title against Shayne Taylor and Joe is 1/18 and big favorite in this match. Taylor is 6/1 and certainly game over for him.
An eight-man tag match will feature Jay White, Juice Robinson, and The Gunns against The Young Bucks and FTR. The Bullet Club Gold are favorites with 4/11 odds while the tag team rivals are 15/8.
Kenny Omega will get the chance to get revenge on Konosuke Takeshita and Don Callis tomorrow and Omega is 3/10 favorite to win while Takeshita is 2/1.
Miro will battle Powerhouse Hobbs in a one-on-one and the Bulgarian is 4/11 favorite while Hobbs is 15/8.
And in a tag team match, Eddie Kingston teams up with Katsuyori Shibata against Claudio Castagnoli and Wheeler Yuta. Eddie and Shibata are 3/10 favorites while BCC are 11/5.
WWE United States Championship Rey Mysterio (c) vs. Austin Theory
Colin: Rey is the United States champion and his son is the North American champion. Who would’ve thought that in 2023? Rey doesn’t need the title to be honest and it would have worked out better if Santos Escobar got it, I think. But here we are anyway. I think the boat of Theory as US champ has sailed so Rey retains.
Magnum: I was convinced that LA Knight would be the one to dethrone Theory and become the United States Champion. Now? Either they’ve got bigger plans for Knight, or he’ll eventually cross paths with the champ down the road. For tonight, though? Give me Rey Mysterio to retain.
LA Knight vs. The Miz
Colin: The Miz was great as LA Knight wasn’t he? The man has many talents. His cosplay of John Cena was spot on years ago. If this feud is continuing, which I think it will, I’m thinking The Miz will get the unpopular win here. YEAH!
Magnum: The push starts here. Miz’s imitation of Knight on Raw was hilarious, but ol’ Eli hasn’t lost any steam since Summerslam. In fact, the pops are getting larger. If WWE is smart, they’ll catch lightning in a bottle with this guy. LA Knight for the duke!!
Steel Cage Match Becky Lynch vs. Trish Stratus
Colin: It’s natural to think that with Trish winning their first encounter, Becky will get the revenge here. Not sure how long Trish has left in WWE, but if her time is up, she ain’t winning this one. Becky for the win.
Magnum: I’m disappointed that this match didn’t find a place on the Summerslam card. That said, I’m glad they’re going to get a chance to have a blowoff, and despite the odds, Becky Lynch is going to get the job done. Give me Becky Lynch in a big time win before she heads off to NXT.
WWE World Heavyweight Championship Seth “Freakin” Rollins (c) vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
Colin: I am hoping that Shinsuke Nakamura’s time is now. I really do. The guy deserves a major title on the main roster. His presentation over the past few weeks has been 1000% better than anything he’s ever done on Raw or Smackdown so far. I’m going for the shocker here: NEW CHAMPION, Shinsuke Nakamura!
Magnum: Come on. They had their chance with Nakamura five years ago. If they really wanted to pull the trigger, they would have done it in 2018 with AJ Styles. They didn’t then, and they won’t now. Rollins retains.
WWE Women’s World Championship Rhea Ripley (c) vs. Raquel Rodriguez
Colin: It’s going to take a while to take the title of Rhea Ripley. Everyone loves mami. I can think of a few stars who would be able to take down the champ, but unfortunately, Raquel is not one of them. Ripley all the way.
Magnum: From an optics standpoint, it’s time Rhea finally met her physical match. However, the story of the match will be the psychology Rhea uses to dismantle Raq (working on her already injured leg). I think Raq will do some impressive things, but just like we saw on Raw…if she hesitates or slips once, Rhea will be ready to pounce. I’ll take Rhea to retain, but not before Raquel gets her pound of flesh.
Steel City Street Fight – Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn (c) vs. The Judgment Day (Finn Bálor and Damian Priest)
Colin: Tired of all these combo matches between these people. Time to move on to the next feud for both of them. I can’t see Sami and Kevin losing tonight, and the Judgment Day loss will continue to break up Finn and Priest. SZ and KO retain.
Magnum: Yes, we’ve had about every variation of Sami/KO/Cody/Seth against every combination of The Judgment Day as the main event of Raw for nearly three months now. That doesn’t mean this won’t be a very entertaining and wild match. Look for JD McDonough to stick his giant head in everyone’s business, leading to another miscommunication between Balor and Priest. Kevin and Sami retain.
WWE is back on Peacock and WWE Network tonight with Payback 2023.
The latest betting odds are being presented below and as always, things could change so bet carefully.
There are rumors that The Great Muta is in Pittsburgh and that might mean he will be part of the show, but for now, Shinsuke Nakamura remains the underdog in his World Heavyweight title quest with 4/1 odds while champion Seth Rollins is 1/7 favorite.
Rhea Ripley got the “Brock Lesnar odds” with the Women’s World champion the overwhelming favorite to retain her title with 1/20 odds against Raquel Rodriguez who is 8/1 for the big upset.
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn defend their Undisputed Tag Team titles against Finn Balor and Damian Priest in a street fight and the champs remain 1/5 favorites against the challengers who are 10/3.
Another title match will pit Rey Mysterio against Austin Theory for the United States title. Rey is 2/5 favorite to win while Theory is 7/4.
A steel cage match will feature Becky Lynch taking on Hall of Famer Trish Stratus. Lynch is 1/10 favorite to take this series to 1-1 while Trish is 10/3.
And the last match on the card sees LA Knight against The Miz. LA Knight is 1/10 favorite while Miz is 11/2.
The status of CM Punk at All Out remains up in the air just over a day away from the broadcast.
Punk, just like Jack Perry, remains suspended for their physical altercation at All In last week and the AEW internal investigation seemly not concluded.
The plan for Punk at All Out according to different insiders was a match against Ricky Starks. But Starks is now involved in another angle tonight on Collision where he will be challenging Ricky “The Dragon” Steamboat to a strap match for tomorrow’s All In.
Punk is not mentioned anywhere in the preview for the show which could be that he will not be involved at all in these two back-to-back shows at the United Center in his hometown of Chicago.
While there were no CM Punk chants on Dynamite, held at the NOW Arena in the suburbs of Chicago, Tony Khan did get some boos from fans when he appeared in front of the live crowd, something that has never happened before with his god-like status among the AEW faithful.
Erick Redbeard, better known to fans as Erick Rowan of the Wyatt Family, posted a heartfelt tribute to Bray Wyatt and Brodie Lee in a post on Instagram.
He, along with Braun Strowman, are the only remaining surviving members of the Wyatt Family following the deaths of Wyatt and Lee.
“Writing this down makes my soul foggy and my heart ache. Over 12 years ago from the island of FCW we would talk of our mutual love of horror movies and music before embarking on this crazy journey that brought us around the world with Jon,” Erick wrote.
“In the process something happened, this family we portrayed weekly in the wrestling world became a real life bond. We spent more time together over the next few years than we would our own families. Strengthening our bond as we dealt with life trials and tribulations together. Eventually this family grew with the introduction of Adam. As did our love for one another,” he continued.
He said that life is sometimes unfair and wishes he could pick up the phone and talk to his brothers but the crazy truth is that they are no longer with us.
“Though I know they are always listening and smiling. With their sudden passings I can not state enough how much they loved their families. My heart hurts for their kids, for Jojo for Amanda for their brothers and sisters or anyone lucky enough to call them a friend,” he wrote.
“I love you both so much. This is only Goodbye for Now, I will see you down the road.”
Erick was brought in for the Wyatt Smackdown tribute show last week and stood with Braun Strowman, also brought in just for the show.
Live tonight from the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, WWE presents Payback on Peacock and WWE Network. The full card is as follows:
Seth Rollins vs Shinsuke Nakamura for the World Heavyweight title; Rhea Ripley vs Raquel Rodriguez for the Women’s World title; Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn vs Finn Balor and Damian Priest in a Steel City street fight for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team titles; Rey Mysterio vs Austin Theory for the United States title; Becky Lynch vs Trish Stratus in a steel cage match; and LA Knight vs The Miz.
The Kickoff show will start at 7PM ET and will air on Peacock and all of WWE’s social media platforms while the premium live event follows at 8PM ET. A special edition of The Bump will air on Sunday morning at 10AM ET on Peacock and WWE’s social media channels.
NBA Hall of Famer Dennis Rodman will be on Collision tonight live from the United Center in Chicago.
Rodman is very familiar with the arena since he was part of the famous Chicago Bulls NBA team who still call the United Center their home.
Rodman is in town for Starrcast, the fan festival in conjunction with All Out, but was announced last night as being brought in for Collision.
The former NBA star is obviously not new to the crazy world of professional wrestling as he spent two years doing appearances for WCW between 1997 and 1999 where he was part of the NWO and participated in several high-profile matches.
John Cena will be at tonight’s Payback in Pittsburgh and will serve as the host of the show.
Cena made the announcement of his involvement last night on Smackdown where he returned to WWE television for a two-month spell.
The 16-time world champion was rudely interrupted by Jimmy Uso in the opening promo of the show and told Uso that the wrong brother quit. Jimmy told Cena that he is just like Roman, but Cena at least smiles. Ouch!
The segment ended when Uso tried to superkick Cena but Cena saw it coming and hit the Attitude Adjustment instead.
What Cena will be doing as “host” of Payback is unclear, both for us, and even for himself! Speaking to Cathy Kelley in a WWE.COM digital exclusive, Cena said he might go ask The Miz what that means.
“I’ve never quite hosted. I just found that out right before I went down there and I want to make sure everyone knows I’ll be at the premium live event Payback as the host, and I don’t even know what that means,” Cena said.
Ready for some real excitement while watching professional wrestling? Consider betting on the outcome of pro wrestling matches or tournaments! Whether you’re a die-hard wrestling sports fan, an occasional viewer, or someone who loves the thrill of gambling – betting on pro wrestlers can be an exhilarating and potentially profitable experience.
In this blog post, we will discuss strategies to utilize when placing bets on pro wrestler events. We will look at factors such as researching form guides and understanding how each promotion operates in order to make informed decisions before putting down any stakes.
This article provides essential information for anyone looking to get into such an exciting activity. Be it inside the ropes or from ringside; with good judgment and knowledge, you could be profiting off your favorite sport very soon!
Understand the rules and regulations of the wrestling event
Wrestling events are a thrilling spectacle that leaves audiences on the edge of their seats. However, before attending a match, it is important to understand the rules and regulations of the sport. Wrestlers must compete within a designated ring, with the objective of pinning their opponent’s shoulders on the mat for a 3-second count.
Certain moves, such as choking or low blows, are not permitted and result in a penalty or disqualification. Each wrestler is also assigned a weight class, ensuring the competition is fair and balanced. By understanding these rules and regulations, you can fully appreciate the skill and athleticism of the wrestlers and enjoy the excitement of the event.
Research the wrestlers
Professional wrestling is an exciting and dynamic sport that has become increasingly popular over the years. Every wrestler has their own unique set of strengths and weaknesses, which contribute to their overall performance in the ring.
Whether it’s a powerful body slam or a technical submission hold, each wrestler brings their own skill set to the table. However, it’s not just their physical abilities that make them stand out – their personalities also play a big role.
From larger-than-life personas to quiet intensity, each wrestler has a distinct personality that makes them memorable. Researching the wrestlers and exploring these traits can give fans a deeper appreciation for what makes this sport so thrilling. When it comes to sports betting, this knowledge can also be very beneficial in narrowing down the potential winners and losers. Plus, it adds an extra layer of suspense to the event.
Analyze the odds
As wrestling fans gear up for the big match, the burning question on everyone’s mind is: who will come out on top? Analyzing the odds is key to understanding which wrestler is favored to win, and there are several factors that can come into play. One of the biggest indicators is the wrestler’s track record – have they won more matches than their opponent?
Another factor is the wrestler’s skillset – do they have a particular move or technique that is proving to be successful? It’s also important to consider any potential injuries or setbacks that may impact a wrestler’s performance.
By taking all of these factors into account, we can make an educated guess as to which wrestler will have the upper hand. But as with any sport, there are always surprises and upsets – so let’s sit back, relax, and see how the matches unfold!
Set a budget for your betting
Betting can be an exciting pastime, but it’s important to remember that it comes with risks. That’s why it’s crucial to set a budget before placing any bets. Consider how much money you can comfortably afford to lose without causing financial distress. It’s an uncomfortable reality, but there’s always a chance you won’t win your bets.
By setting a budget beforehand, you can mitigate the risk of losing more money than you can afford. Even if you have a hunch about which team will win the big game, don’t let your emotions cloud your financial judgment. Setting a budget for your betting will allow you to fully enjoy the experience without any added anxiety.
Follow trends in the betting markets
Betting can be quite a tricky business, and it’s not always easy to spot a good bet when it comes around. That’s why following trends in the betting markets can be such a valuable tool. By keeping an eye on which way the wind is blowing, you can identify potential value bets and get ahead of the curve.
Of course, it’s not just about blindly following the crowd – you’ll still need to do your own research and analysis – but having access to up-to-date information about where the smart money is going is definitely a great starting point.
So whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toe in the water, keeping an eye on the betting market trends is definitely a move in the right direction. Also, don’t forget to have fun while you’re at it!
Keep track of your bets
The final point we’ll make when it comes to betting on pro wrestlers is to keep track of your bets. Not only will this help you stay organized and accountable, but it also provides valuable insight into the successes and failures of your betting record.
By monitoring which bets you’re most successful with, you can hone in on your strengths and maximize profits. This will also help you avoid making the same mistakes in the future.
So whether it’s writing a list of bets or keeping an electronic spreadsheet, staying organized and tracking your performance is a great way to ensure that your betting experience is as profitable as possible. Overall, with careful consideration and research, betting on pro wrestling can be an enjoyable experience.
Betting on pro wrestling events can be an exciting, nerve-wracking way to add excitement to the show. With proper research and analysis, you can maximize your odds of a big pay-off when betting. The key is to understand the rules, thoroughly research wrestlers, analyze the odds, set a budget for betting, follow trends in betting markets for potential value bets, and finally keep track of all of your results.
When done correctly, investing in pro wrestling events can truly be profitable in more ways than one. As we approach championship season for many promotions around the world this fall and winter, bettors of all levels should take advantage of these tips and strategies to maximize their earning potential when betting on professional wrestling!
John Cena is out to the ring first, He wants to thank the WWE Universe and is happy to be home with his WWE family. He is going to host Payback tomorrow night. Jimmy Uso with new entrance music comes out to interrupt Cena.
Jimmy tells Cena he is exactly like Roman Reigns and takes and takes. Cena then tells Jimmy the wrong Uso quit. Jimmy tries to go for a superkick, but Cena catches him and drops him with an AA.
Austin Theory and Grayson Waller are interviewed by Kayla Braxton.
Rey Mysterio & Santos Escobar VS. Austin Theory & Grayson Waller
Rey and Theory tumble over the top rope to the outside and Waller hits Escobar with his rolling stunner and gets the win.
Winners: Austin Theory & Grayson Waller
In the back Mia Yim is talking with Adam Pearce and Jimmy Uso comes in and interrupts the conversation and Pearce tells him to stop being rude to everyone.
Out to the ring next is the Almighty Bobby Lashley, Bobby had the Street Profits come out and they are ready to take some power and gold in WWE.
Mia Yim is talking with The O.C. about what happened with Jimmy Uso, she tells them it’s OK now, but A.J. Styles comes in and says it’s not OK and I will take care of it.
Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn VS. Joaquin Wilde & Cruz Del Toro (L.W.O.)
Owens hit a stunner on Del Toro after Sami’s Helluva Kick to get the win.
Winners: The Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn
In the back Jimmy Uso and A.J. Styles are arguing and as they begin to shove each other Solo Sikoa comes in and knocks A.J. down. A.J. says he wants Solo tonight.
The Miz comes to the ring, he said L.A. Knight isn’t half the star the Miz was 10 years ago, and Knight comes to the ring, after a heated exchange The Miz was able to catch Knight in the throat and then The Miz leaves Knight lying in the ring after a Skull Crushing Finale’.
As the Miz was walking to the back, Knight gets up and runs up the aisle after the Miz and jumps the Miz before officials break it up.
Shotzi VS. Bayley
Bayley was asking for Iyo Sky’s championship to hit Shotzi, but Charlotte Flair comes out and hits Bayley without the referee seeing and Shotzi gets the win.
Winner: Shotzi
Charlotte raises Shotzi’s arm in the ring after the match.
Rollins/Nakamura video package is shown.
Solo Sikoa VS. A.J. Styles
As Styles went to the top rope Jimmy Uso sneaks out and shoves Styles off and Solo hits the Samoan Spike.
Winner: Solo Sikoa
After the match Solo almost hit Jimmy with the spike but stopped and Jimmy hit Styles with the splash off the top rope.
Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Oprah Winfrey launched the People’s Fund of Maui, a fund putting money directly in the pockets of those who were affected by the recent wildfires.
The fund started with $10 million, $5 million from Johnson and $5 million from Oprah. Both of them are currently in Maui to see firsthand the destruction that these wildfires left behind, with The Rock saying that they will ensure that 100% of the donations will go directly into the hands of Lahaina residents.
Every resident who lives in the affected areas will be eligible to receive $1,200 per month to help them through recovery.
There are two pay-per-views this weekend, one from WWE and one from AEW, but first, Payback takes place from the PPG Paints Arena.
We will present the early betting odds for the full card for tomorrow’s premium live event and tomorrow we will update it with the latest numbers. Remember, be careful when betting with real money as odds will most likely change by the time bell time hits.
The main event will pit Seth Rollins against Shinsuke Nakamura for the World Heavyweight title. The reigning champion is 1/7 favorite to retain while Nakamura is 19/5 to win his first major title on the main roster.
The Women’s World title is on the line with Rhea Ripley defending against Raquel Rodriguez. Mami is 1/14 super favorite to walk out with the gold while Raquel is 11/2.
A steel cage match will settle Becky’s and Trish’s feud and with Trish already 1-0 up, Becky has the upper hand on this one with her odds at 1/5 while Trish is 13/4 for the victory.
Rey Mysterio will defend the United States title against Austin Theory and the champ is favorite with odds of 1/4 while Mr A Town Down is 5/2.
YEAH! Or NAH!? Crowd favorite LA Knight will battle The Miz in a one-on-one and Knight is very heavy favorite with odds of 1/14 while The Miz is 11/2 for the upset.
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn team up to take on Judgment Day’s Finn Balor and Damien Priest for the Undisputed WWE Tag T team titles. KO and SZ are also 1/4 favorites while their challengers are 5/2.
The Starrcast fan festival is back for the sixth time this weekend, starting today in Chicago to coincide with All Out weekend.
Starrcast VI kicked off at 3PM today at the Hyatt Regency in Schaumburg with the Kick Off party and will remain open till 10PM. Tomorrow the fan fest will run from 8AM to 4PM and the same goes for Sunday as well.
A ton of stars are in town for meet and greets, including the majority of the AEW roster along with other wrestling legends and independent stars. Meet and greets will carry an extra cost and an entrance ticket is also required.
Several stage shows will also be held across three days as well as podcast recordings from the likes of Jim Ross, Jake Roberts, RVD, Colt Cabana, Jeff Jarrett, and others.
John Cena returns to WWE television starting tonight for the next two months, appearing on television the whole way.
Tonight’s Smackdown in Hershey will be Cena’s first appearance on WWE TV since his surprise visit at Money In The Bank in London. He won’t be at Smackdown next week as he will be in India with the Raw roster for Superstar Spectacle, but after that, he’s locked in till the end of October.
Cena’s return was made easier because of the Hollywood strike and none of the actors can do anything movies-related at the moment, not even promoting their own work. Cena’s deal could be extended if the strike in Hollywood continues heading into winter.
Cena will team up with Seth Rollins to take on Imperium’s Ludwig Kaiser and Giovanni Vinci in India. There are also rumors that Cena will be part of Payback tomorrow as well.
The post-All In and All Out-go home episode of Dynamite drew 871,000 viewers, an increase of just 1,000 viewers from last week’s show. The broadcast did a 0.30 rating in 18-49, down 0.02 from last week and placed #1 in the top 50 cable chart for the night. (Ratings credit: SpoilerTV)
AEW President Tony Khan faced the press yesterday in a conference call ahead of All Out and obviously the topic of CM Punk came up.
Khan kept to his usual “no comment” line when it comes to backstage incidents at AEW and the only thing he could say was that that the company is investigating what happened between Punk and Jack Perry and wants to provide an update as soon as he can.
Quizzed if there will be an answer on Punk before this Sunday’s All Out, Khan said that he hoped they’ll have a better answer by then and also refused to comment on the rumors that Punk and himself had a heated argument backstage.
There are also rumors that footage of the whole incident exists so that should speed up any internal investigation AEW is doing. Unlike the Brawl Out, this Brawl In was witnessed by several individuals.
As of now, both Punk and Perry remain suspended by AEW.
