In a post-MITB interview with Ariel Helwani for BT Sport, Cody Rhodes revealed that Seth Rollins got him a cake for his birthday after wrapping up his match at Newcastle on June 30.
Rollins and Rhodes aren’t really good friends and the two have publicly spoke about the tension between them ever since Cody came back to the WWE.
“Someone who has no reason to like me, and we don’t necessarily get along, that being our World Heavyweight champion Seth Rollins, had a cake provided for me from the production team and I got to blow the candles out. I made a wish, the whole deal, so yeah, it was nice,” Cody said following the show.
When asked about the “swerve” that it was Seth who brought him the cake, Rhodes continued, “I think…I don’t know, maybe we’ll end up growing to be friends at some point. We got daughters…I love Becky, I do. It’s just Seth…but a great great wrestler, big time Superstar.”
Cody also said that winning the World Heavyweight title would not finish his story as he specifically came back for the WWE title. Cody put over Rollins for his work and said that by the time WrestleMania comes around, the World Heavyweight title will mean a whole lot more simply because of the work Seth is putting in and he will continue to elevate that title in the months to come.
The “never say never” line was repeated for WrestleMania in London last night by WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque as he answered questions from the press in the post-show press conference.
Triple H said that Cena had the afternoon free and wanted a “shot of adrenaline” and came to the show for it, noting that there’s nothing better than a WWE audience for that fix.
He jokingly thanked Cena for putting him “in an unenviable position” after he went out and said he’s trying to bring WrestleMania to London. Triple H said that he wishes it was easy as that to bring a major show like Mania across the pond but the amount of work, logistics, and people they need to bring over is unheard of.
But with the recent success of WWE internationally, it bodes well for WWE to expand its premium live events across the world.
“Never say never, the intent is there,” Triple H said about doing WrestleMania in London.
Earlier in the press conference, Cody Rhodes wondered if John Cena knew something that no one else knew and said he would definitely support a WrestleMania in London.
The Owen Hart Cup tournament men semi final matches were decided last night on Collision.
Powerhouse Hobbs defeated Dustin Rhodes to advance while Ricky Starks defeated Juice Robinson. The two winners now face each other next week on Collision for a spot in the final.
The other semi final match will see Samoa Joe take on the returning CM Punk. This match will also take place on next Saturday’s Collision.
The final of the Owen Hart Cup tournament will be on the July 15 episode of Collision from Calgary.
In September 2013, Jey Uso became the first individual to pin Roman Reigns on the main roster.
That came on an episode of Raw in an 11-on-3 handicap elimination match at a time when The Shield were running riot. Jey, funny enough, pinned Reigns with the same finisher from Saturday’s Money In The Bank, a splash off the top rope.
Fast forward nearly a decade, and Jey Uso has Roman’s number again, becoming the first individual to pin Reigns since December 2019, three-and-a-half years since Reigns took his last pinfall loss at the hands of Baron Corbin.
More fun facts? 10 years ago, The Usos battled Roman Reigns and Seth Rollins in the Kickoff show on Money In The Bank 2013 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. On that night, Reigns and Rollins beat The Usos in a 15-minute opener
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) is quickly becoming one of the most popular combat spots in the United States. One of the biggest promotional companies in the world, the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), and its stellar line-ups of titanic clashes are one of the biggest driving forces behind this rising popularity.
Since its inception in 1993, UFC has managed to bring hundreds of high-profile contests to Millions of audiences from across the world. From strikers like Connor McGregor to grapplers like Khabib Nurmagomedov, the UFC has been able to bring to light talents specializing in a variety of different fighting styles from every corner of the globe and the promotional platform is showing no signs of slowing down.
Much like in previous years, MMA fans are in for a very hot summer, both literally and figuratively. With stellar fights scheduled throughout June. And it goes without saying that every UFC fan would want to follow the action Live.
There are several simple ways of watching these raging conflicts online. All you need is an internet-enabled device and a fast-paced broadband connection like Spectrum Internet.
Now, without wasting any more time let’s talk about 3 of the best online platforms where fans can watch UFC action LIVE.
ESPN+
ESPN+ is a subscription-based streaming service owned by the giant cable network of the same name. Subscribers can utilize the service to follow a wide range of sporting events including all of UFC fights. ESPN+ has been able to obtain exclusive rights to displaying UFC content of all categories and is not limited to just premiering mega-events, unlike many other similar services out there.
Moreover, ESPN+ is a comprehensive online repository of all UFC events to date, this means that users can watch the grandest battles in UFC history with the click of a button.
The service is extremely cheap and costs users merely 6.99 USD per month. You can also purchase ESPN+ at discounted rates of 69.99 USD a year if you choose to pay for the entire year upfront.
UFC FIGHT PASS
As the name suggests, UFC Fight Pass is the official streaming service of the UFC franchise.
Much like ESPN+ UFC Fight Pass is a subscription-based streaming service where you can follow everything related to UFC in real-time.
Again, like ESPN+, UFC Fight Pass is a comprehensive repository of all past UFC events. But being a dedicated service UFC Fight Pass subscribers cannot use Fight Pass to watch other forms of sports, though the service does offer access to a few combat sporting events from third parties.
In addition to sporting events, the service also offers subscribers behind-the-scenes clips from fighters as they prepare for much-anticipated clashes. Viewers can also watch exclusive fighter interviews and training routines, and other niche content that no other streaming service can hope to get their hands on.
UFC Fight Pass is on the pricier side, costing users almost 10 USD per month or a whopping 100 USDs per year but the price is nothing for millions of super fans around the world.
SLING TV
Unlike the other options mentioned in this list, Sling TV is not a streaming service dedicated to combat sports or even sports in general. Instead, Sling TV is a Live TV streaming service that offers a variety of channels including sports channels like ESPN and Fox Sports, both of which subscribers can use to follow UFC action Live online.
The service offers two plans, with the basic one costing 25 USDs a month while the premium one costs users $35 a month.
Sling TV also offers a 7-day free trial to its users so that they can experiment with the service and assess its content before making the purchase.
FINAL THOUGHTS
All three platforms mentioned in this list have their own unique advantages and disadvantages. For instance, while UFC Fight Pass offers users access to exclusive content clippings from the UFC world, the platform is fairly limited when it comes to other forms of entertainment.
Similarly, ESPN+ gives users the ability to watch a variety of different sports but does not offer access to behind exclusives.
Finally, Sling TV might be the most expensive option on the list but it gives users a more expansive and comprehensive entertainment experience.
The service you choose must depend on your unique entertainment needs.
WWE Chief Content Officer Paul “Triple H” Levesque announced yesterday that Money In The Bank from The O2 Arena in London was the highest grossing arena event ever in the history of WWE, and that’s not just in the UK, but anywhere in the world.
Smackdown on Friday from the same location was also the highest-grossing Smackdown in WWE history, with high ticket prices contributing to these two records.
Levesque said that actual numbers will be released next week after the U.S. holiday. It’s expected that the numbers will be north of $2.5 million for these shows to claim these records.
Over 37,000 fans attended both Smackdown and Money In The Bank this weekend, making it a very successful trip across the pond. Sponsorship, merchandise, and social media also broke records for Money In The Bank.
AEW Collision tonight comes to us from the FirstOntario Arena, Ontario. After last week drawing 595,000 & 0.21 in the 18-49 demo.
So Fight Forever’s finally out and a prominent review noted the key single-player mode is ‘poorly written’. Much like Dynamite Wednesday which crashed in the ratings. Hopefully tonight’s a better effort.
*****
Like last week we had promos before the show even started – Hobbs, Dustin, Roderick and Joe all vowing to win the Owen tournament for various reasons.
The Elton theme’s growing on me.
Fireworks and all as Kevin Kelly introduced things before MJF’s theme kicked in.
MJF vs Kip Morst
Backstory: Max’s Collision debut
This is a strange way to open the show.
Some boos for the champ since the enhancement guy is as usual a local. And Max’s covered in stars and stripes since he’s a proper heel.
Clothesline from behind, Heat Seeker, LeBell Lock, win.
*****
Max took the mic to run down the crowd. Slamming the locals to such a degree he challenged anyone from the area to come out and face him. ‘How dare you!’ yelled Kelly at his abuse of the crowd.
A large man came out, whom Nigel McGuinness referred to as a ‘black belt in poutine’. Superb line. Until Ethan Page stormed past, demanded a mic and slapped Max’s away.
To say he was going to remind him and everyone backstage what he’s about. His dad worked a tough job locally, showing him not to be lazy like MJF and not to settle, going on to become a president of several companies. So, no, Page is not like Max – ‘I’m not a bare-minimum bitch!’.
When the company needs something they don’t go to Max, they go to him, and he always delivers. Always does what’s best for the company, promoting events at the expense of his family. His wife asked him when AEW will pay him back, Page said the time is now.
Max might be the AEW champ; Page champions AEW.
Challenging him to put the belt on the line ‘right here, right now’.
Handing the belt to the ref, Max retreated to the corner. And we had ourselves a match.
MJF vs Ethan Page (AEW title)
Page avoided a rushing Max, stomping a mudhole in the corner, up for the Edge, MJF slipped out, chop block, beginning to work over the legs with various stomps and wrenches.
‘You suck!’ chants from an enthusiastic though small-sounding crowd.
Page hit a thrust kick, Max fought back into a single-leg crab, Lance Storm style. Middle of the ring, for a long time. Page making several crawls. Finally getting the ropes after a good few minutes.
Before abruptly zooming to a break.
Out-to-in cutter from Page, unable to follow-up due to his injured leg. To their feet, slugfest, Max went low, Ethan came back with shots and a hurracanrana, using the ropes to hold himself up, forearm in the corner, iconoclasm off the top, up onto the shoulder into a snap powerslam.
Two only.
Up for the Edge again, Max avoided it, ate a Twist of Fate, Max out cold, Page to the top, until Max popped up to crotch the challenger. Then looked for a superplex, Ethan fought back into an avalanche powerslam.
Again unable to follow-up due to his knee, he crawled over late, allowing Max to kick out once more. Limping, he looked again for the Edge, his leg crumpling like Razor/Jarrett at the Rumble as he stumbled to the apron, Max dragon-screwed his leg into the ropes, Heat Seeker, 1, 2, 3.
Will there be follow-up?
An incredibly abrupt angle with Page becoming babyface out of nowhere and losing on his home turf with it being clear who’d win since the champ’s already in a feud. Another of those situations where making it a title match achieved nothing other than removing the tiniest slither of doubt about the victor.
I’d like it if they got serious about Page. But have my doubts this was anything other than a one week thing to pop a crowd.
Coming out of the opening segment, the most important question is – what is going to hook viewers to stick around? And Punk being on commentary for a Joe/Strong main event is not enough.
Winner: MJF
Dustin Rhodes vs Powerhouse Hobbs (Owen Hart Cup)
Backstory: Winner faces Starks/Juice in round two
QT’s with Hobbs so we know where this is going.
Lockup, Rhodes muscled to the corner, paintbrushing the youngster in response. Side headlock, clash in the middle, neither budging, until a diving shoulder saw Hobbs kick out before one. Then work over the vet in the corner with shots to the side of the head.
Bringing Rhodes to his knees. The vet getting a boot up in the corner, crowd almost silent as he hit the ropes, QT grabbed the boot, Hobbs clotheslined him outside then slammed his head into the apron.
Before QT flung him into the ringpost with the ref distracted.
Wouldn’t you know it, Dustin’s bleeding. Break. Very hard for any matches to come across well with so little atmosphere.
Hobbs smashed through the vet via shoulder block. Two slaps of the mat. Rhodes firing back with trademark rights, lariat, another, kick to the gut, drop-down uppercut – crowd waking.
Snap powerslam – nope – Hobbs blocked it, Dustin countered back to slip into Cross Rhodes, piledriver, very nearly three. The action picking up.
Dustin to his feet, he was powered to the corner, Rhodes got a boot to the gut, code red, another two slaps. QT hit the apron and fell off somehow in a sloppy sequence, Hobbs took advantage with a spinebuster.
Rhodes kicked out at one. They’re trying very hard here to make this seem like it’s not a foregone conclusion. Rhodes elbowed free of Town Bidness, snap powerslam, two once more.
Dustin looked for the figure four, QT interfered for a fourth time with a right hand, into the spinebuster, Hobbs wins. Jeff Jarrett and the Outcasts are jealous.
This did nothing for Hobbs.
He got his ass kicked all match long excepting when Marshall interfered. Dustin is not at a stage where he needs protecting like this. This should’ve been a story of an unstoppable young monster against a valiant veteran who couldn’t quite overcome said monster.
Damn sure didn’t need QT. But then, when does it?
Action pretty good at times, outcome never in doubt, crowd flat.
Winner: Will Hobbs
Promo package for the Strong/Joe main event. It’s their first match in seventeen years.
Miro vs Anthony Henry
Backstory: None
Miro stomped Henry down in the corner, overhead belly-to-belly, ‘Seamus’ strikes on the apron, Henry got a brief flurry but was slammed to the mat.
Machka kick, Game Over.
A little longer than my description but basically a squash.
Worth noting that the crowd were more into this than the last match since they saw Miro as a star.
I wondered last week if there were plans for the Bulgarian. Three weeks in, there’s no indication of any.
Winner: Miro
Footage of the Gunns joining Bullet Club Gold. Tony Schiavone called them to the ring for an interview. A few ‘Ass Boys’ chants as he asked what was next for the group. White took the mic to introduce ‘the Golden Gunns, the Top Shelf Gunns’.
It’s the golden era of Bullet Club and that’ll continue tonight when Juice defeats Ricky Starks.
The Gunns said they’d joined due to the others’ accomplishments all over the world. And that Bullet Club recruited them since they’d only been a team sixteen months but have already won the tag titles and defeated ‘all your favorites’. Naming the Hardys, Acclaimed, Punk and etc.
A CM Punk chant started and was booed but seemed louder than said boos.
Schiavone announced that BCG were banned from ringside for the match vs Starks. The heels weren’t happy.
White then addressed Punk: when he returned, Punk had a bag containing something that always attracts Jay. If what was in that bag was Punk’s AEW title, then Punk should leave it in the bag. The implication being that White’ll take it if he even sniffs that it’s gold.
FTR too have Bullet Club’s attention. And since they already beat them, why not put the tag titles up against he and Robinson? ‘Top Guys Out, Gunns Up’.
*****
Backstage – Lexi with Ricky Starks, Punk and FTR. Starks was getting ready for his match so Punk spoke first. If White wants what’s in the bag, he can go to AEW shop and pretend like Max does.
He then showed Ricky what was in the bag as the two smiled. While FTR talked about ‘Gunns shooting blanks’. Harwood accepted the tag title challenge.
Before Starks said he knows what’ll happen now BCG are banned from ringside. It’ll end the same way it did when he met Robinson the first time – with Starks winning.
They all had Lexi say the ‘Top Guys… out’ line.
Really like the continued affiliation of Starks with Punk, who had his arm across the youngster’s shoulders. And Punk was leagues ahead of anyone else on the mic here. He’s just so comfortable and knows exactly what he wants to say. Even getting in a great line to continue stirring the Max pot.
Really wanted White to absolutely nail this. And it wasn’t bad. But it wasn’t nailed.
Ricky Starks vs Juice Robinson (Owen Hart Cup) (BCG banned from ringside)
Backstory: Winner faces Will Hobbs in round two
Juice stayed out there, Ricky made his entrance after the break. A few weak ‘Ricky’ chants. Before a duelling chant broke out as the two wrestled in and out of arm wringers. Side headlock, whip, Ricky shoulder-blocked Juice to the mat.
Drop down/leapfrog, Starks got a hip toss then snatched Juice into a headlock takeover. To their feet, Starks again smashed Juice via shoulder block then tripped over a Robinson drop down (Assume it was a mistake but they did a nice job working it into the match if so, Ricky holding his shin and Juice going to work on the leg).
Starks elbowed his way free, to their feet, slugging away, Juice knee to the gut then a body slam against the ropes which got dangerously close to Starks landing on his neck. Then another, this time ensuring Starks’ injured leg took the brunt.
Posing to boos as we went to break. Hit and miss in the short time so far.
Robinson hit chops in the corner, big running lariat, cannonball, first cover, for two.
Juice on the attack again, Starks shook off a lariat, asking for another. And another. Causing Juice to throw a cheap shot but be body dropped: Starks hitting lariats, ddt, kip-up into his pose. Still selling the leg.
Snake eyes in the corner, tornado ddt, two only.
Draping ddt ready, Juice fought free, big leg lariat as Robinson got two. Chants of ‘Ricky’ as Juice beat Starks to his feet. Texas cloverleaf, McGuinness openly talked about him ‘taking it from his missus (ie ‘Mrs’ for those that don’t speak colloquial English)… Toni Storm’.
Great selling from Starks as he grimaced and screamed while making the crawl to break the hold. To the apron, Juice followed looking for a suplex back in, Starks slipped behind, series of standing switches, Juice bagged an O’Connor role with the tights for 2.9.
Arguing with the ref, he wandered into a slam as Starks bagged two. More ‘Ricky’ chants, Juice looking to bail on a Roshambeaux, using the apron then flinging Starks into the buckle. Headbutt in the corner before hauling Ricky upstairs, thinking hurracanrana.
Starks held on, Robinson crashed, Ricky missed a leaping something, Robinson got a spear, Starks kicked out once more. Left Hand of God being readied, Starks got free, hit the ropes, hit a Spear, Juice grabbed him into a cradle; Starks reversed it for the win.
Before you could blink, Bullet Club Gold had the ring surrounded. Bringing Punk and FTR to the ring, to mostly boos. BCG fled.
It helped that it wasn’t a totally foregone conclusion like every other thing on the show. But still felt flat due to such a small crowd. Who did try, but just couldn’t get the noise up.
Winner: Ricky Starks
Christian and Luchasaurus with Lexi. Quickly interrupted by Shawn Spears. Who said he wanted to talk ‘to the champ’.
Cage said Spears didn’t seize his opportunities, isn’t dangerous and never will be. Spears said anyone’s capable of becoming that, they just need to meet the right person. As he looked right at Cage.
This was good promo work from Spears. Doesn’t change the fact that everything Cage said is correct. A wild idea for AEW might be prepping for a run through Canada by having some of these guys actually appear on tv before they challenge for titles.
To make it seem y’know, even remotely, minutely possible they might win and convince the crowd of said.
Kris Statlander vs Lady Frost (TBS Title???)
Backstory: None
Are you psyched? It’s the Night of Obvious Finishes here on week three of AEW Collision!
Frost basically performed a bunch of gymnastics which Statlander avoided and/or blasted her with lariats afterward.
Break.
Statlander avoided a lariat to hit an inverted slam for two, missed a knee strike, ate a German but again caught Frost mid-gymnastics. Only for Frost to turn it into a tornado ddt and hit a rolling knee strike for two. Not a single person bought it.
The crowd clapping Statlander to her feet as Frost did more gymnastics as they fought in and out of piledrivers. Statlander got Saturday Night Fever to win.
Frost is incredibly athletic but just isn’t ready for tv. It does not look like a contest when she’s out there, it looks like a routine.
Winner: Kris Statlander
Lexi with Andrade. Who snatched the mic to demand his mask which the House of Black stole last week. He called them cockroaches and demanded his mask again in Spanish.
As the House did some spooky magic to warp onto the tv behind him. ‘Tranquillo, all in good time’.
I love the House in-ring and was such a big fan of Malakai when he debuted; all this spooky, lights-out warping amid nothing else is getting old.
*****
Promo package for Yuta/Omega. The former reminding us he pinned Omega at DoN and that the Elite/BCC thing isn’t done yet.
Roderick Strong vs Samoa Joe (Owen Hart Cup) (Punk on comms)
Backstory: Winner faces Punk in round two
Know it exists to get Punk out there but this just isn’t a main event.
On the subject, he came out first, to a mixed response. Plenty of people in the front row and elsewhere clad in his shirt. He reverentially eyed the Owen trophy then slapped hands with folks at ringside, most of whom seemed to be his fans.
He said he had no preference who he faced since he couldn’t separate either guy.
Despite an underwhelming show, can’t help but smile when Joe comes out. He’s everything great about pro wrestling. So believable, total badass aura. He stared-down Punk from the ring.
Stiff lockup, the two separated in the ropes. Back to it, Strong headlock, Joe pushed him to the corner. Another rope break. As Punk said facing guys like Joe is why he came back.
And the big man got too aggressive, running into big chops until laying out Strong with a single forearm, sending him outside. Strong avoided a dive and hit a dropkick through the ropes.
Chop fight outside, the last of which sent Strong flying several feet across the ringside mats. Before being flung back in to chants of ‘Joe! Joe! Joe!’. Strong threw shoulders to the gut in the corner, then back to very stiff chops. As Punk mentioned he’d never beaten Joe. Which he sees as a challenge.
Strong got a chin lock.
To their feet, Joe got a knee to the gut as the crowd chanted his name once more. Before a flood of snapping jabs left Strong on his ass in the corner. Dragged up only to take another big chop.
Strong briefly fighting back to whip Joe to the opposite buckle, storm in and be absolutely drilled via STO.
Brutal. Great stuff so far as the ads arrived.
Strong got a big running knee, the big fella kicked out at one. Back to the fight, chops and strikes from both sides until a flurry from a Joe: Manhattan drop, big boot, senton. The latter done while glaring right at Chicago Phil and shouting ‘F*** you’. Which Punk acknowledged.
Count of two.
The crowd as loud as they’ve been all night for these Joe flurries.
Punk referred to fans of Collision as ‘Colliders’. Which Joe’s knee did with Roddy for another two. Before he began grinding on Strong’s head, the crowd clapping away, Strong to his feet. Only to be flung right back down like a small child.
Joe sarcastically clapping the crowd, the cheering only getting louder.
As he missed a senton. Strong got a chin-breaker as a Punk/booing mix began again and the former acknowledged it. Series of big running lariats as Strong bounced off the big man several times. Until a dropkick caught Joe by surprise coming off the ropes.
Backbreaker to follow, Strong living up to his name, Sick Kick following, two only. Strong clutching his knee after the backbreaker. Then was caught in the corner, placed up top, Muscle Buster on the way, blocked, missile dropkick, two slaps.
Again, Strong hurled himself at Joe to little effect. Until an Olympic Slam bagged another close count.
Really enjoying the way Strong’s just hurling himself at Joe and bouncing off – makes the match seem real and a struggle while also making Joe look a beast. Nicely done.
Suplex ready, Joe ducked out, big chop, Strong came back with a leaping knee, looking for End of Heartache, Joe blocked it into the Clutch. Strong passed out.
Really good. Enjoyed this. Everything Hobbs’ win over Dustin should’ve been. Kudos to Strong for really making Joe seem a monster.
Punk said he had ‘short time and a lot of work to do’ before noting ‘I’m ready’ as Joe stared at him with his arms raised in victory. Then grabbed a chair with evil intent as a gang of security hit the scene.
Though they only cared about protecting Punk. Leaving Strong to be dropped head first on the chair. Joe left as Adam Cole came to check on Strong along with Punk.
They stretchered him out. Further putting across Joe as a real threat before next week. Very good closing angle.
And next week’s match will be interesting. Punk damn sure shouldn’t get his first ever win over Joe with one week’s build. But can’t lose straight up. Maybe some Jay White interference leading to Starks vs Joe in the final?
The fans chanted Strong’s name before the show closed with more ‘CM Punk’/booing.
For the first time in three and a half years, Roman Reigns was pinned in the middle of the ring fair and square with Jey Uso getting the decisive pin on The Tribal Chief at Money In The Bank.
It was a long main event with a hot London crowd and the four men – Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, Jimmy and Jey Uso – did not disappoint. A storyline that has been regarded as one of the best ever in professional wrestling history continued to unfold and this time, it was the twin brothers who came out victorious.
It took several super kicks and then one final splash from the top rope to put Reigns down, with the Undisputed WWE Universal champion getting pinned for the first time since December 2019.
The London crowd exploded and sang The Usos’ theme song as Reigns reeled on the outside while the brothers celebrated in the ring.
Here are the results from the Money In The Bank 2023 premium live event which took place live from The O2 Arena in London, England.
Damian Priest defeated Ricochet, Logan Paul, LA Knight, Butch, Shinsuke Nakamura, and Santos Escobar in the men’s Money In The Bank ladder match; Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan defeated Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler to become the new WWE Women’s Tag Team champions; Gunther defeated Matt Riddle to retain the Intercontinental title; IYO SKY defeated Bayley, Becky Lynch, Trish Stratus, Zoey Stark, and Zelina Vega in the women’s Money In The Bank ladder match; Seth Rollins defeated Finn Balor to retain the World Heavyweight title; The Usos defeated Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa in the Bloodline Civil War.
John Cena made a surprise appearance at the Money In The Bank show in London, coming out to one of the most gigantic pops you’ll ever hear at a wrestling event.
Cena told the audience that he’s used to hearing “Cena sucks” but now they’re singing along to his theme song as fans continued to serenade the 16-time world champion.
The charismatic Superstar explained how he had to come out to tell the UK crowd how awesome they are and not many people in the back “get” them, because they think the UK fans try to “take over” the show. Cena told the fans that those people are wrong and they are the show.
As the chants continued to grow, Cena then dropped the big bomb.
He said that he’s here as he’s trying to get WrestleMania in London. And if you think his pop was big, the roof nearly blew off The O2 Arena when he dropped the news as chants of “Yes!” filled the jam-packed arena.
Grayson Waller then interrupted Cena, with the fans chanting “Shut the f*ck up” and “Wanker” at the Aussie star. Waller said that WrestleMania needs to go somewhere nice, somewhere like Australia, and he offered to help Cena by having him as a guest on the Grayson Waller Effect.
Cena declined and then Waller attacked him but Cena had the last laugh after delivering the Attitude Adjustment much to the enjoyment of the crowd.
Drew McIntyre returned at Money In The Bank to a monstrous pop from the London crowd and set his sights on Gunther and the Intercontinental title.
The former WWE champion came out after Gunther defeated Riddle to retain the IC title and went face-to-face with the Austrian Superstar. Gunther pushed him and McIntyre retaliated with the Glasgow Kiss and then a Claymore kick. He then posed with the Intercontinental title as the crowd chanted for the returning Scotsman.
McIntyre has not been seen on WWE television since WrestleMania 39 and after a few months injured it was reported that there had been some issues between McIntyre and WWE over a new deal and his direction.
His deal is rumored to expire at the end of this year.
Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match: Ricochet vs. Shinsuke Nakamura vs. LA Knight vs. Santos Escobar vs. Butch vs. Damian Priest vs. Logan Paul
COLIN: I’m up for anyone except Logan Paul. I hope he does not win it and this is WWE so I would not be surprised if they go with it. But I’m going to be optimistic and YEAH, going to pick LA Knight to win. I wouldn’t mind of Nakamura gets it either, but I think it’s LA Knight time.
KYLE: The addition of Logan Paul makes this very interesting. There’s a number of ways that this match could go, especially because it’s rumored that this will be the first match of the night I expect a total show stealer, and the right guy to get the nod. LA KNIGHT YEAH!
Women’s Money in the Bank ladder match: Zelina Vega vs. Becky Lynch vs. Zoey Stark vs. Bayley vs. IYO SKY vs. Trish Stratus
COLIN: I mean the obvious winner here is Becky Lynch right? But I feel they will throw a curveball here. The implosion of Damage CTRL will be complete tonight and IYO SKY will grab that briefcase, edging out Bayley for it. Expecting a very good match regardless of who wins though.
KYLE: I have been reading about the creative team, wanting to book a total surprise/shocking finish to one of the matches tonight. I’m going to go out on a limb and say that it’s this match your sky is the heavy favorite according to Vegas, but my money is on the first ever Hall of Fame participant in a money in the bank match, give me Trish.
World Heavyweight Championship Seth Rollins vs. Finn Balor
COLIN: There’s no way Seth Rollins is losing here. Finn Balor is great and he needs a run with a major title, but it won’t happen today. Too early to take the title off of Seth. So Rollins wins.
KYLE: Seth is just getting started with this title reign. I’d be shocked if he lost it tonight. Give me Seth to retain.
Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa vs. The Usos
COLIN: I am looking forward to this match the most. I think this will be incredible. All four are solid workers and they have great chemistry together which will make the match even better. Expecting Roman and Solo to win this one but hoping Solo turns on Reigns and joins his brothers.
KYLE: I was very intrigued when I found out that this tag team match would be the main event of the evening. If WWE really wanted to shock the world and get everyone talking, there would be a Cashin at the conclusion of this match. What happens after that is anyone’s guess. What if all three brothers annihilate Roman after the match and leave him in a vulnerable state? Or will they all support him and back him up if somebody tries to cash in? I will take Roman and Solo, but WHO KNOWS what will happen.
Cody Rhodes vs. Dominik Mysterio
COLIN: I’m liking Dom Dom every week that goes by but Cody is the man. Surely, Cody is not jobbing to Dominik, right??? Cody wins.
KYLE: This will be a clash between the hottest Babyface in the company in the hottest heel in the company. Rhea and Dom are such a fantastic duo, and this match will put Dominic on the map. I would not be surprised to see Cody win, followed by the return of Brock Lesnar.
Women’s Tag Team Champions Ronda Rousey & Shayna Baszler defend against Liv Morgan & Raquel Rodriguez
COLIN: I am going to be using the same thinking as I did for Rollins/Balor. They won’t lose the titles this early after winning them so I see no other outcome except for a Rousey and Baszler win.
KYLE: Liv has a few wins over Ronda, so she seems to have her number. Not tonight. Ronda and Shayna retain.
Gunther vs Matt Riddle
COLIN: Gunther’s going to destroy Honky Tonk Man’s record as the longest-reigning Intercontinental champion ever so there’s no way he will lose this one. Gunther retains.
KYLE: This is another match that has the potential to steal the show. I believe that Gunther is on the same trajectory as Roman Reigns. He will not lose any time soon Riddle will make this very entertaining, but Gunther will retain.
The clock is ticking down and it’s almost time for Money In The Bank live from London where a sold out crowd will surely contribute to a great show.
We are presenting the latest betting odds for the full card and these numbers are correct as of press time. If you’re interested in playing the Hash Game, you can download the Hash Game apk for your device.
In the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match, LA Knight hangs on to his position as the favorite to win the match with his odds at 8/13. Coming behind him is Logan Paul at 11/8 odds and Damian Priest from Judgment Day is 10/3. Shinsuke Nakamura is 18/1, Butch is 25/1, Santos Escobar is 33/1, and Ricochet is in no man’s land with odds of 40/1.
IYO SKY has also retained her position as favorite to win the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match from yesterday’s early odds. She is now 8/11 at top spot with Trish Stratus behind with 11/8 odds. Zelina Vega is 7/1, Becky Lynch is 8/1, Zoey Stark is 9/1, and Bayley is the biggest underdog with 12/1 odds.
Seth Rollins defends his WWE World Heavyweight title against Judgment Day’s Finn Balor and Rollins is 1/8 super favorite to retain tonight while Balor is 9/2.
The WWE Women’s Tag Team titles are also on the line as Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler take on Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez. The champions have 1/5 odds while the challengers are 3/1.
Gunther’s reign as Intercontinental champion looks like it’s not going anywhere as the champion is 1/20 and big favorite to retain tonight while Matt Riddle is just 7/1 for the big upset.
There are rumors that a certain beast is in town and ready to pounce on Cody Rhodes but Rhodes remains favorite with 1/2 odds heading into the match against Dominic Mysterio who is 6/4.
And last and certainly not least, The Bloodline civil war reaches its crescendo tonight with Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa taking on The Usos. Reigns and Sikoa are favorites with 4/7 odds while Jimmy and Jey have odds of 5/4.
During one of the many interviews she did on press day yesterday, WWE Superstar Bayley told The Gorilla Position that she “begs” Mercedes every day to return.
Asked if she talks to her close friend about returning, Bayley was very open about the subject.
“I beg her every day. It doesn’t matter where it is or it doesn’t matter how it happens, I would love to one day step back in the ring with her,” Bayley said.
“Whether it’s teaming with her, whether it’s against her. Right now, I just want whatever she needs to accomplish her dreams, accomplish her goals. I’m just happy to see her happy,” she continued.
Bayley added that she would also love to see the four horsewomen headline WrestleMania one day in a four-way match.
Live today from The O2 Arena in London, England, WWE presents Money In The Bank on Peacock and WWE Network. The full card is as follows:
Seth Rollins vs Finn Balor for the World Heavyweight title; Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler vs Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez for the WWE Women’s Tag Team titles; Gunther vs Matt Riddle for the WWE Intercontinental title; Ricochet vs Shinsuke Nakamura vs LA Knight vs Santos Escobar vs Butch vs Damian Priest vs Logan Paul in the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match; Zelina Vega vs Becky Lynch vs Zoey Stark vs Bayley vs Iyo Sky vs Trish Stratus in a men’s Money in the Bank ladder match; Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa vs The Usos in a Bloodline Civil War tag team match; and Cody Rhodes vs Dominik Mysterio.
The Money In The Bank Kickoff show will start at 2PM ET and the actual event will start at a special time of 3PM ET.
The death of Darren “Droz” Drozdov was covered by the mainstream media with outlets such as CNN, FOX News, NBC, USA Today, Yahoo, and many others all uploading stories following the news of his passing.
Drozdov, a former NFL player for the Denver Broncos, Philadelphia Eagles, and New York Jets, was also covered by NFL.COM.
WWE led the tributes with a graphic on Smackdown, writing, “WWE is saddened to learn that Darren Drozdov passed away on Friday, June 30, at age 54. An imposing force in the ring, Darren Drozdov became a notable figure in WWE, known to fans as both Puke and Droz during his time as an in-ring competitor. Drozdov captivated audiences in the late 1990s with his time spent in the Legion of Doom teaming with Animal and his Droz’s World vignettes. WWE extends its condolences to Darren Drozdov’s family, friends and fans.”
The news of his death led his name to be the #7 most-searched on Google yesterday according to Google Trends.
Many wrestlers also took to Twitter to express their condolences.
Denver Broncos: “We’re saddened by the passing of Darren Drozdov, who played for the Broncos from 1993-94 before becoming a @WWE wrestler. “Droz” embodied the spirit of perseverance & determination through adversity, and our hearts go out to his family.”
The Rock: “Man I’m so sorry to hear one of our ring brothers has passed away. Darren Drozdov aka Droz. We wrestled on a lot of cards together. Such an awesome dude. Great personality and great wrestling talent. We always talked about football and fishing. Sending love, strength, mana and light to his family. RIP brother.”
Taz: “Very sad to hear of Droz passing. Was a really a great guy. Career was sadly cut short due to a tragic situation in the ring. Battled for years, was always smiling and positive. RIP”
Amy “Lita” Dumas: “Be at peace, Darren. Droz really helped me get through my broken neck. He was so encouraging to me. His positivity helped me let go of anger I had due to being sidelined. He will always be an inspiration.”
Matt Hardy: “Saddened to hear about the passing of Darren Drozdov. Darren was a great guy who was always full of life & laughs.”
Marc Mero: “Very sad to hear former WWE Superstar “Droz” Darren Drozdov has died. He was an amazing man with a great attitude. I wrestled him numerous times and we were in many cities together. He also starred in the NFL, a nose tackle for the Denver Broncos. RIP”
Bully Ray: “Nothin but LOVE for our brother Droz. My condolences to his family and friends. RIP and God Bless”
Christian Cage: “#Droz”
Blue Meanie: “Heartbroken to learn of the passing of Darren Drozdov aka Droz. Sweetheart of a man. Was fortunate to get know him in ECW and then WWE. All good memories! Shared lots of laughs. Rest In Peace Droz. My thoughts and heart go out to his family.”
John “Bradshaw” Layfield: “Such a wonderful man. We wrestled each other, fought each other in Brawl for All, hunted together, talked tons and tons of football and laughed together every time we met. You made me want to be better the way you handled adversity. You will always be a brother. RIP legend.”
Christopher Daniels: “Rest in Peace Darren Drosdov. I was privileged to work him once, on Shotgun Saturday Night, and he was a true gentleman, allowing me to pitch ideas at a time that others might not have. Thank you Droz.”
Matt Cardona: “RIP DROZ! He’s gonna PUKE!!!”
Nattie Neidhart: “Very sad news about Darren Drozdov. He endured so much and always seemed to have a smile on his face no matter what. My heart goes out to his family and friends during this difficult time.”
The WWE store at the Icon Outlet Shopping Center at The O2 last night proved to be a big hit with WWE fans as merchandise flew off the shelves with staff having a hard time to keep replenishing stock.
One very popular item which sold out immediately was the Money In The Bank mini title belt, which came in a mini MITB briefcase. Selling for £125, these collector items quickly vanished…and just as quickly made their way on eBay where those lucky ones who managed to get their hands on them are now selling them for a very big profit.
These event-specific mini titles are selling for well over £300 on eBay at the moment, with fans looking to cash in as fast as possible. Some eye witness reports said that there were individuals who walked away with 10 of them, clearly a sign to resell at a profit.
The store is open today till Midnight and will re-open tomorrow as well from 10AM to 2PM.
Tonight’s Smackdown is in memory of Darren “DROZ” Drozdov who passed away earlier in the day.
Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn VS. Pretty Deadly for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championships.
Kevin hurt his ankle during the match and Pretty Deadly tried to play the switcharoo, but Kevin comes in and hits a Stunner and Sami hits the Helluva Kick and gets the win for the champs.
Winners and Still WWE Undisputed Tag Team Champions: Kevin Owens & Sami Zayn
Austin Theory VS. Ridge Holland in a Championship Contender’s Match
Ridge had things going his way until Theory went outside and Ridge leans over and Theory Chop blocked him to the throat. He rolls in the ring and pins Ridge.
Winner: Austin Theory
After the match Theory continued to beat Ridge until Sheamus came out and made the save.
Shotzi VS. Bayley
Bayley’s spot in the Women’s Money In The Bank ladder match is up for grabs in this match. Bayley rakes Shotzi’s eyes and gives her the rose plant and keeps her spot in Money in the bank.
Winner: Bayley
In the back, Iyo Sky and Bayley are talking and Shotzi comes in and starts hitting Iyo then Iyo and Bayley leave Shotzi lying on a table and cut her hair.
The Grayson Waller Effect is next with special guest Logan Paul. Logan said he was going to win the Money in the Bank briefcase and might smack LA Knight upside his head with it. Knight comes out to a big pop. Knight says Logan is given everything and these people get on their feet when he comes out because he made that happen. As they exchange words, Santos Escobar comes out, Santos says he needs this. Butch comes out and immediately hits Logan Paul and a fight begins everywhere.
Butch VS. Santos Escobar VS. L.A. Knight
Logan Paul is at ringside for the match and gets into an argument with Knight and as Santos jumps at Knight, Knight moves and Santos takes out Paul. He then goes back in the ring and gets hit with the Bitter End by Butch.
Winner: Butch
After the match, Paul gets in the ring until Butch comes back in and he hits Paul. He throws him out of the ring and climbs the ladder, takes down the briefcase and holds it up.
Earlier Karrion Kross challenged A.J. Styles and Styles accepts.
Charlotte Flair VS. Asuka for the WWE Women’s Championship
As the fight spills outside the ring, Bianca Belair is shown in the front row waving her ticket. Asuka landed by her, and Charlotte goes for the boot and Asuka ducks and Charlotte kicked Belair. Belair gets mad and jumps the barricade and goes directly for Asuka causing the disqualification.
Winner by Disqualification: Asuka
After the match, Charlotte went out and confronted Belair and said this was my match and Belair hit Charlotte and then they started fighting until Charlotte goes for a spear against the ring steps and Belair moves and Charlotte goes down. Belair then gave Asuka a KOD onto the announce table. Belair then picked up Charlotte and gave her a KOD on top of Asuka on the announce table.
Roman Reigns is out to the ring next. The Usos come out and say Roman hasn’t been pinned in over 3 years he is going to be pinned tomorrow night. The Usos then say Solo has their vote to become the next tribal chief.
A fight breaks out and officials come out to break it up, but they keep breaking free and fighting and Roman kept hitting the officials.
The family of Darren “Droz” Drozdov released a statement after news of his death was revealed yesterday.
The statement, published also on WWE.COM, said that Darren passed away in the morning of natural causes.
The statement in full can be read below.
“We are sad to share our beloved Darren passed away this morning of natural causes. There are no words to convey the deep sense of loss and sadness we are feeling right now.
Nevertheless, Droz maintained a championship mindset and lived every day to the fullest even though he was unable to move from the neck down for the past 24 years.
His own words sum up his relentless positivity in the midst of adversity: “There is always another day. Just because I’m paralyzed and stuck in a wheelchair, doesn’t mean my life is over. I’ve learned to live again, and my life is far from over.”
We lived this journey with him over the past 24 years. We were always there through the good times and the bad, and provided him with our unconditional love.
We would like to extend our deepest appreciation to everyone. All of his fans, teammates, colleagues, and friends for all the love and support he received over the years. You all gave him meaning, purpose and something to live for. He loved each and every one of you and cherished the conversations, notes and letters he received. His faith in humanity never faltered, so know that for all the love you’ve shown him, he loved you back.
We also would also like to thank WWE for treating him like family, and for all of their love, support and stepping up to make sure that Darren always had the proper care and treatment needed to live in his condition over the past 24 years.
He was a devoted son, brother, and friend who had always put others first, especially his family. He was kind, generous and was always there for his people. He was our guiding light who lit up our lives with infinite love and wonder. His smile was healing. His warmth, love, and laughter were infectious. We could always turn to him for wisdom and solace and his absence feels like a giant hole in our family and our hearts.
Everyone who knew Darren was a better person because of it. He taught everyone so much about how to look at life: how to put things in perspective, how to overcome adversity, and how to show compassion for others.
He would not want anyone to be sad at this moment and would want to this to be a celebration of his life, to be remembered for all the great things that he accomplished, the fun, the laughter, the great memories he shared with everyone.”
We’re just 24 hours away from Money In The Bank live from the sold out O2 Arena in London, England.
Today we will take a look at the early betting odds for the show and tomorrow we will update the numbers to reflect any changes. Remember, all odds will probably change by tomorrow so be careful if you’re placing any bets. After checking out all the odds, try your luck at ethereum casinos as well!
In the men’s Money In The Bank ladder match, LA Knight is the favorite as of now to win the briefcase with odds of 3/5. Logan Paul is second with 6/5 odds and Damien Priest follows with 3/1 odds. Shinsuke Nakamura has 10/1 odds, while Santos Escobar is 17/1 and Butch and Ricochet are both at 20/1.
Damage CTRL member IYO SKY is the favorite to win the women’s Money In The Bank ladder match with odds of 1/2. Becky Lynch follows with 5/2 odds. Trish Stratus is at 5/1 while Bayley and Zelina Vega are at 9/1 odds each. Zoey Stark wraps it up with 14/1 odds.
Seth Rollins takes on Finn Balor with the WWE World Heavyweight title on the line. Rollins is 1/9 favorite to keep the gold while the Irishman is 17/4 to win.
A civil war is brewing between The Bloodline with Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa taking on The Usos. Reigns and Solo are favorites for now with 11/20 odds while The Usos are 13/10.
The WWE Women’s Tag Team titles are on the line with Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler favorites to retain with 1/5 odds and their challengers, Liv Morgan and Raquel Rodriguez, are 3/1 for the upset.
Gunther looks to extend his run with the Intercontinental title and the odds are certainly in his favor with 1/20 while Riddle is at a very distant 7/1 for the win.
Cody Rhodes battles Judgment Day’s Dominik Mysterio and Rhodes is the favorite going in, with 4/11 odds while Mysterio is 9/5.
