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00:00Then, now, forever, together.
00:30Then, now, forever, together.
01:00I can't lose.
01:02I can't lose.
01:04I can't lose.
01:06I'm in the rain.
01:07I can hear you.
01:08What's going on, everyone?
01:09Welcome on in to part two of the Best of Main Event.
01:11I'm your host, Megan Moran.
01:12And last week, we set the bar sky-high as we relive the most unforgettable moments from
01:182025.
01:19And believe it or not, we might just clear that bar today.
01:22This week's show is packed with even more incredible performances.
01:26And it all begins with a superstar who made Main Event her personal proving ground.
01:32Lyra Valkyria competed on Main Event four times in 2025.
01:36And every single time she stepped through those ropes, she was on a mission.
01:40But before we go any further, let's look back at Lyra's quest for championship gold.
01:50Last week, I walked into Raw ready to become a history maker.
01:54The following contest is for the WWE Women Intercontinental Championship.
02:05And that meant spreading my wings and shedding any dead feathers that made me doubt the heights
02:10I knew I was capable of reaching.
02:13I took fear, I took doubt, and I used them to become something more.
02:23One, two, three.
02:38You're brand new Intercontinental Champion.
02:40And now that I have this, it's about what comes next.
02:45And what comes next is building a legacy as a valiant, fighting Women's Intercontinental Champion.
03:00Lyra Valkyria etched her name into WWE history when she became the inaugural Women's Intercontinental Champion,
03:08holding the title for an impressive 144 days before losing the gold to her former friend and mentor,
03:16the man, Becky Lynch.
03:18But Lyra didn't spend long dwelling on the loss.
03:21Just two months removed from dropping the title,
03:23she was back on Main Event to test herself against another former champion, Kyrie Sane.
03:28The following contest is scheduled for one call.
03:30Introducing first, from Dublin, Ireland, Lyra Valkyrie.
03:34The following contest is scheduled for one call.
03:49Introducing first, from Dublin, Ireland, Lyra Valkyrie.
03:59Getting the action started with the resilient and mystical warrior who's looking to add another feather of victory to her collection right here today.
04:06Welcome you in, Blake Howard alongside the voice of NXT, Vic Joseph.
04:11Vic, I know you're still feeling the heat from last weekend at Heatwave.
04:14Certainly am excited to be here with you, ready to get the action underway.
04:18And these are two superstars I'm very familiar with.
04:21The first being Lyra Valkyrie, a former NXT Women's Champion.
04:27As Lyra certainly had an incredible couple years here in the WWE, Vic, her opponent tonight,
04:32can certainly match one of those accolades.
04:34Certainly can, and you know what, I think a lot of people have been sleeping on Kyrie Sane.
04:53And her opponent, accompanied by Asuka, representing the Kabuki Warriors.
05:03Kyrie Sane!
05:08Well, from the battlefield to the high seas as the Pirate Princess set for action.
05:12Both superstars certainly looking to make some noise, get the attention of Raw General Manager Adam Pierce.
05:17But as we talked about Vic, two former NXT Women's Champions set for battle.
05:22They're two very decorated individuals throughout their time in WWE.
05:25I don't wanna get it twisted.
05:26You're looking at Kyrie Sane and Asuka, former WWE Women's Tag Team Champions.
05:30You're talking about someone in Lyra Valkyria, who is a former WWE Women's Intercontinental Champion.
05:36So there's a lot at stake here with these two women, because if you start to dig deeper, Blake,
05:41you start to think about championship pictures.
05:44You start thinking about championship contention moving on here through 2025.
05:48Of course, the situation around the Women's World Championship, a bit cloudy right now.
05:52So a lot at stake for both superstars.
05:54A lot at stake, too, for General Manager of Monday Night Raw, Adam Pierce.
05:57I mean, there's a lot on his plate.
05:59It just seems that every week there's more thrown onto his back.
06:02He, though, has done a phenomenal job at handling all the superstars.
06:07All the situation has been thrown his way, but I am very interested to see what happens
06:11with the Women's World Championship Mondays on Raw.
06:15Talk about the jockeying for position in the tag team ranks that Adam Pierce has to deal with on a weekly basis.
06:20And now right here, as we're looking at two potential contenders for the Women's World Championship here
06:27as the bell sounds are underway, Vic.
06:30But going back to some championship contention, how much frustration is Lyra feeling
06:33after being unable to recapture that Women's Intercontinental title at SummerSlam from Becky Lee?
06:38Well, wouldn't you be frustrated?
06:39Of course.
06:40I mean, there'd be frustration in going through your blood, too, right?
06:43It'd be boiling a little bit.
06:44So she's got to go out here and do what she's done her whole career.
06:46Stay calm.
06:47Stay cool.
06:48Stay collected.
06:49Focus on the task at hand.
06:50Pick up a victory and restart building momentum.
06:53That was, of course.
06:54And also hope that Nikki Bella can capture the WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship
06:59so she could have another opportunity.
07:01Indeed, as Lyra, of course, cannot get an opportunity at Becky Lynch.
07:04But in that matchup, Vic, what did she ultimately prove to her former mentor?
07:07I think she proved to her former mentor a long time ago that she's just as good, if not better.
07:12If you look at the win-loss record between the two, it's pretty good for Lyra Valkyrie.
07:17As Lyra looking to stay one step ahead of Kyrie Sane right now.
07:20But, of course, in that matchup, we saw Lyra have her hands full.
07:23And seemingly now, Lyra's emotions, how do they currently sit as it relates to one Baylor?
07:27I don't necessarily know that answer because, look, I don't like to speak for other individuals.
07:32I don't like to speak for other people.
07:33But when it comes to Lyra Valkyrie, she is someone who maybe wears her heart on her sleeve.
07:37She tells you how she feels as, right now, the WWE Universe reacting to Lyra Valkyrie.
07:42As Lyra, again, staying one step ahead of Kyrie Sane.
07:46Into the cover.
07:47Here we go.
07:48Hooks the outside leg.
07:49Only gets one right now.
07:50But, Vic, flat out, if it wasn't for Bayley, would Lyra Valkyrie be the Women's Intercontinental Champion?
07:55Well, I would like to think she would be.
07:58But as Booker T would tell you, woulda, coulda, shoulda.
08:01Don't really know the answer to that one.
08:03So let's not play hypotheticals.
08:04Let's just talk about the here and the now.
08:06There's no championship gold around her waist.
08:08And her opponent is also looking to get championship gold back around hers.
08:12That here and the now as Kyrie Sane maintaining control, going to the top rope.
08:15We know how comfortable she is up there.
08:17Oh, Lyra charges in.
08:20You know, it's something else that we need to talk about with both these women.
08:23They have their eye on what's going on in NXT and the NXT Women's Division.
08:27We talk about a plethora of talent down there.
08:30We talk about two former NXT Women's Champions right here, Vic.
08:33Of course, in a couple of weeks, you return to the place that Kyrie Sane made it all happen at full sail for a major homecoming.
08:40Cover.
08:41Big shot there to Lyra.
08:42Hooks the outside leg.
08:43And look, there's a lot going on with Kyrie Sane too, Blake.
08:45I mean, all the drama surrounding Io Sky as we saw this past week on Raw.
08:49Where is she?
08:50Where is her head at?
08:51Is right now, what's she trying to do?
08:53As Kyrie Sane bringing Lyra Valkyria to the apron here.
08:56A very dangerous part of the ring.
08:58As Kyrie tying Lyra up here, Vic.
09:02Oh!
09:03Yikes.
09:04That's certainly a shot that rings throughout the arena.
09:05I wish she'd come over here and do that to you.
09:06Why do you say that?
09:07Yeah.
09:08Just one of those days.
09:09As Lyra in a tough spot right now.
09:10And Kyrie Sane, you see Asuka on the outside.
09:11Vic, they could be looking at a third women's tag title run.
09:12They could be, but right now Lyra Valkyria trying to block, trying to shift the momentum in this matchup.
09:15Able to create a little bit of separation.
09:16And let's see if Lyra's going to fly.
09:17Some dangerous waters here.
09:18And Lyra dropping Kyrie Sane.
09:20You see Asuka starting to cheer on her tag team partner.
09:21Gotta keep your eye on Asuka though.
09:22She's starting to get a little too close.
09:23And now Lyra's going to be looking at a third women's tag title run.
09:24As Lyra in a tough spot right now.
09:25As Lyra in a tough spot right now.
09:26And Kyrie Sane, you see Asuka on the outside.
09:27They could be looking at a third women's tag title run.
09:28They could be, but right now Lyra Valkyria trying to block, trying to shift the momentum of momentum in this matchup.
09:31Able to create a little bit of separation.
09:32And let's see if Lyra's gonna fly.
09:34Some dangerous waters here.
09:35And Lyra dropping Kyrie Sane.
09:38You see Asuka starting to cheer on her tag team partner.
09:40Gotta keep your eye on Asuka though.
09:42She's starting to get a little too close.
09:44And now Lyra looking to add another feather to that collection right here Vic.
09:48She's going all the way upstairs.
09:49Target acquired.
09:50Just like Kyrie.
09:51Very comfortable.
09:52Oh no.
09:53But a big miss.
09:54And now Kyrie looking to capitalize here.
09:57Miscalculation by Valkyria.
09:59And we know Sane looking to go to the top of the stacked Raw women's division.
10:03Alabama slam.
10:04Into the jet knife cover.
10:06And Lyra able to escape Vic.
10:08This one back and forth right here.
10:09A lot to prove for both superstars.
10:11We know we've talked about it already when again in championship contention.
10:14I think also when you're Kyrie Sane when you're talking about Asuka as well.
10:19They're trying to send a message somewhat to Io Sky.
10:22They laid it down.
10:23Do not talk to.
10:25Do not befriend.
10:26Do not help Rhea Ripley.
10:28Maybe Kyrie Sane let out a little extra aggression as this matchup goes on.
10:32But nice combination offense from Valkyria.
10:34We've certainly seen that tension between Asuka and Io Sky.
10:37You almost wonder is Kyrie Sane doing that damage control.
10:39Oh damn.
10:40And there's a big spinning back fist into the cover.
10:43Will that do it?
10:44I don't know how Lyra Valkyria was able to kick out.
10:49I mean that was flush.
10:52Talk about a stunner right there.
10:53But now Kyrie.
10:55She might be looking to end things right here.
10:57Asuka echoing that sentiment.
10:59And now Kyrie Sane looks to fly Vic.
11:03Didn't work earlier for Lyra Valkyria.
11:05We'll see.
11:06It looked a little bit too much.
11:08I don't know how Lyra's back up.
11:09Sane is a genuine highlight reel here.
11:11Going for it all into the cross body.
11:13But Lyra rolls through.
11:14Oh nice change of momentum.
11:16Look at the power.
11:17Look at the strength.
11:19Channeling the spear of the Morgan here.
11:21Two.
11:22Knight.
11:23Wing.
11:24And add another feather.
11:25To Lyra's collection.
11:30Here is your winner.
11:32Lyra Valkyria.
11:35That win doesn't just build momentum.
11:38It also lets Adam Pearce know.
11:40When the opportunity rises.
11:43I will soar.
11:44I will flourish.
11:46What a victory for Lyra Valkyria.
11:49Lyra Valkyria proved exactly why she carries herself like a champion.
11:53Gunning out a big win over Kyrie Sane on her way to four straight victories on Main Event in 2025.
12:00And speaking of streaks.
12:01The War Raiders were on an absolute rampage this year.
12:05Eric and Ivar entered their matchup against Los Americanos with a perfect 9-0 record.
12:10Demolishing anyone who dares stand in their way.
12:13But Los Americanos, they weren't intimidated.
12:16They were hungry.
12:17And they were looking to shock the world.
12:20That tag team clash is headed your way next on the best of Main Event.
12:35The War Raiders Royal Rumble is presented by Cricket.
13:02Royal Rumble is presented by Cricket. Join Cricket Nation and get reliable nationwide 5G. Miles, you're on Cricket. And by Ram Trucks. Nothing stops Ram. And by Intuit TurboTax. Now this is Taxi.
13:17Ah, the Royal Rumble has always held a special place in my heart because there's just nothing quite like it. 30 superstars, one ring, and a ticket to WrestleMania hanging in the balance. It's chaotic, unpredictable, and the perfect way to launch the road to WrestleMania. I would bet these four superstars have that same dream in mind. And with the way the War Raiders competed this year, you can't blame them for eyeing a spot in the men's Royal Rumble match.
13:45Eric and Ivar entered their showdown with Los Americanos riding an impressive nine-match win streak on Main Event. But even the strongest runs meet resistance as Los Americanos came in looking to shock the world while the War Raiders pushed toward a milestone 10th straight victory.
14:05Oh, Vic, you ready for war once again? I'm wondering how many beat analogies you're going to make during this matchup. But to answer your question,
14:14I'm always ready for war.
14:16I'm always ready for war.
14:17I'm always ready for war.
14:31The Void is a Tag Team Max Kittle for one call.
14:35Introducing first, at a combined weight of 597 pounds, Eric and Ivar, the War Raiders!
14:49Blake, we're ready for war tonight, but we certainly had a showdown earlier this week between NXT and TNA. What a week it has been. And it continues today in Perk with Crown Jewel.
15:03And that showdown certainly was heavy in the Tag Team Division this past Tuesday. As for the second consecutive week here, the War Raiders on Main Event this year as they look to keep making their championship case to Raw GM Adam Pearce.
15:15And speaking of GMs, gotta give a lot of credit to the NXT General Manager, that being Ava and those that work for her, such as the Prime Minister of Evolve, Stevie Turner, and the one and only Mr. Rob Stone, to work so well with TNA Directive Authority, Santino Morella.
15:31Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole, Ole!
15:37And our opponents, accompanied by a grande Americano at a combined weight of 380 pounds, Los Americanos!
15:54Well, for the first time here on Main Event...
15:56So what are you gonna say now, Blake? There's three of them.
15:58What crazy conspiracy do you have now? Is that Chad Gable? Are you telling me Chad Gable's one of these three?
16:05He could be!
16:06Is he? I don't know for a fact.
16:08But earlier, every time we saw him before, he always, oh, that shit, yet you spoke with so much authority and conviction!
16:14Listen, the...
16:15Is he out there now?
16:16The rumor mill's running wild right there, but...
16:18Rumor mill.
16:19Listen, Vic, I know you're getting your crown jewel party started early here for Los Americanos!
16:23Show some respect. These are all three are legendary luchadors. The more that I've learned about them by talking to Corey Graves, who, of course, is the voice of Triple-A.
16:32He has talked about how these three men have battled the likes of Mil Mascaris, Blue Demon, Super Porky, as a matter of fact!
16:40All three of these men have statues being built of them just outside of Mexico City, by the way.
16:45I don't think you've ever been to those cities, but that is what I have been told from Corey Graves.
16:49So how long have they been around?
16:51Oh, well over a decade. I mean, it made their name throughout Mexico. You see what they're doing right now in this matchup.
16:57I mean, this is a huge, huge matchup for Main Event. We are all a part of history in the making.
17:04So I guess we can call this Uno in here right now?
17:07See, this is what you think you're funny. They're not the Los Conquistadors. They're the... You know what? Keep it up!
17:13I'm already calling Braun Breaker after, and after this, we have a conversation with these three.
17:17As Ivar shuts down any offense right here from Los Americanos, but Vic, talking about the War Raiders,
17:22how many times do they need to defeat the New Day to prove a point?
17:25Look, that's a great question. That's one that I cannot answer. That is for the general manager of Monday Night Raw.
17:30But look, as much as we want to talk about the opponents in here being renowned in Mexico,
17:35the War Raiders are well known in Japan, and Booker tells me all the time how helpful going over to Japan was early in his career.
17:41Look at these double teams right here by Los Americanos. And a big pose!
17:46Oh, and so now you like them? Don't let that entrance fool you. I mean, it was grand, it was impressive,
17:51but when the bell rings, it is all business for these two.
17:55As they look to control the pace right here against Ivar. Of course, El Grande Americano has had his issues with AJ Styles.
18:01And tonight, Vic, the phenomenal one, and John Cena, one final time.
18:04One final time. It's gonna be absolutely amazing as another quick tag was made.
18:09I guess, is this Dose now?
18:12You called him Uno at the start of the matchup.
18:14I'm sorry, I got confused.
18:16One's wearing blue, one's wearing red. Like, how hard is it to figure out?
18:20So Uno and blue, Dose and red.
18:22You call them whenever you want, because after this, you're gonna have some words with all three of these men as a tag was made.
18:27Some high elevation right there. Here comes Eric. And of course, Eric.
18:30My word.
18:31We're gonna continue this pace right now.
18:32War Raiders, by the way, so well rounded.
18:35I do think at times it's forgotten how unique they are. The blend of power and athleticism. Not to mention the uncanny ability to know where the other one is at.
18:43Like we're seeing on display with the power right now for these two.
18:47And of course, that tag team cohesion. And it looks like Eric gonna pick up Ivar. That's a whole lot of meat right there, Vic.
18:54Here's your first meat reference. And also, I forgot to mention the combination offense. They are truly the total package.
18:59Sending Los Americanos to the outside. El Grande Americano trying to get him back.
19:04But right now, the War Raiders in control here on Main Event.
19:07It's almost time to celebrate the new year. And evil has risen again.
19:32Big tag team match here on Main Event. Eric and Ivar controlling things right now against Los Americanos.
19:47And look at Eric right now with this high elevation. All the blood rushing to the head here of Dos.
19:52As much as we talked about in the opening matchup with the tag team division in SmackDown, and you already brought up The New Day.
19:58War Raiders don't care who they face, they don't care what show it's on, what brand, what day of the week.
20:04They're out here to punish and pick up victories.
20:06But the referee was distracted, and look at what's going on now.
20:10Combination offense indeed, but this time from Los Americanos.
20:15And driving Eric face first.
20:17Here we go, Los Americanos into the cover, shoulders are down.
20:21I gotta give a lot of credit to El Grande Americano here on the outside recruiting two of his friends to help guide them, build them up.
20:28And now they are here in the WWE.
20:30Well, Vic, you certainly can't discount quite the skill set inside the ring here for Los Americanos.
20:34When you talk to Corey Graves, who obviously knows these guys so very well with everything going on in AAA.
20:39I think something is forgotten is when these three men started their careers over a decade ago in Mexico.
20:45They had to fight to survive.
20:47They had to fight to eat.
20:49The winner's purse, so to speak, that Booker always talks about on Tuesday.
20:52Go into the pay window.
20:53So that's why I'm saying now you're seeing a more aggressive style from these two.
20:57And what did you call it?
20:58This is Dose in your words?
21:00I believe it is.
21:01Those are your words, not mine.
21:02He's the aggressor of the group.
21:04He's the one that's gonna ground, pound, and tear your ligaments apart.
21:07Trying to do that to Eric right here.
21:09Eric trying to get up and make a tag, but shuts him right down yet again.
21:12Of course, we got a big tag team clash right here, tag made.
21:15But of course, another big one on the horizon.
21:17LA Knight now has CM Punk by his side in a battle with the Megastar's new rivals, the Usos.
21:22Huge match still to come.
21:24Monday Night Raw, nice double suplex.
21:26Listen Vic, can't take it away from them.
21:28These guys really working well together.
21:30They've been working together for well over a decade.
21:32I've now told you that three times, Blake.
21:34What do you not, do you just not accept the fact of the grandeur, the lineage,
21:38the history that we're witnessing right now on Main Event?
21:41Well, the War Raiders have been on quite a roll on Monday Night Raw as well.
21:45as main event right now, but Los Americanos looking to throw a wrench in the plans.
21:48Of course, everyone looking at the Judgment Day in those World Tag Team Championships.
21:52We talked earlier that SmackDown Tag Team Division really getting clouded.
21:55Raw is getting pretty stacked as well.
21:57It is, and you look at NXT as well.
21:59How about that showdown this past Tuesday?
22:01Showdown was absolutely amazing, and that's what I'm talking about.
22:04Everybody's so hungry right now in the WWE, no matter what the brand is.
22:09Everyone wants their name in the marquee, and for the War Raiders,
22:12they know that every victory is so important to get their name back into championship contention.
22:18As Eric on the comeback trail right here.
22:20And Vic, ultimately, what is that roadblock been for the War Raiders in the Tag Team Division?
22:24I don't like to throw the New Day under the bus, but I think it's because the New Day is scared.
22:29I mean, that just means-
22:31El Grande Americano, now El Grande a manager right there on the outside.
22:36You didn't even know the word to use, but I'll let you slide on that one.
22:38Oh!
22:39But whatever he's managing didn't work out because the advice is not very good
22:43whenever someone's running in to someone like Ivar.
22:46Ooh!
22:47Splat!
22:48Over 300 pounds coming crashing down right there.
22:52Maybe a stick and move strategy, but it's not gonna work right here, flattened.
23:00Ooh, that was a rump roast.
23:02Is Dos, and now Uno in here.
23:05It's not Uno and Dos, Blake.
23:07No!
23:08Show some respect.
23:09As Eric and Ivar are starting to cook right now.
23:12Ivar hasn't been positioned, double underhook, into the Powerbomb.
23:15Nice.
23:16Sits out with it, shoulders are down.
23:17And a big save right there.
23:20Big save.
23:21This one's starting to break down a bit.
23:22All four superstars are in.
23:25As Los Americanos looking to pull off a major upset.
23:28And a gut buster there by Eric.
23:32And a big knee right underneath the jaw.
23:35And the action flying right here, Vic.
23:38Can't say it again, this is that speed, this is that quickness.
23:41This is what, ten years of high-level Lucha Libre action.
23:47I spoke a little bit too soon.
23:50As Ivar showing off the screen, wait a minute.
23:52Vic, what did he just take out of his trunks?
23:54I think we've seen it in the past.
23:56And he handed it over and, well, the referee.
24:00Loading it up in his mask right now, the referee didn't see it.
24:03Referee checking on one of the Americanos.
24:05Ivar trying to take advantage, he gets clipped from behind.
24:08He can say that again, just his knees buckled.
24:11And now the double team in place right here.
24:13Divide and conquer.
24:15Steak and destroy in that loaded mask.
24:17Indeed, the mask connects into the cover.
24:20Do you believe in miracles?
24:22That is an upset.
24:23Here are your winners, Los Americanos.
24:29As much as I wanna talk about over a decade of experience, coming here to the WWE,
24:34taking on a team like the War Raiders, you gotta consider that an upset.
24:37It's a massive upset for the first time in 2025.
24:40The War Raiders lose here on Main Event.
24:42Let's take a look.
24:43The double team with that loaded mask comes into play.
24:46And Los Americanos come away with a huge win.
24:50Most Americanos delivered one of the biggest shocks of the year, ending the War Raiders' undefeated streak here on Main Event in stunning fashion.
25:05And the intensity only builds from there, as Natalya and Maxine Dupree step into the ring to face Carmen Petrovic and Laney Reid in a high stakes tag team clash that promises plenty of fireworks next on the Best of Main Event.
25:18Community Royale
25:37I got the world in the poem in my hand.
25:38I've been a story I cannot be sorry, I gave them the glory of selling the plans.
25:40That was just part of the plan.
25:42Give me the glory.
25:44Womensy Intercontinental Champ Becky Lynch
25:52defiądnię w wola w most famous arena.
25:56Maxine, Becky, Madison Square Garden.
26:00What a hot start for Maxine!
26:03Becky Lynch is writhing in pain.
26:08Wow!
26:10What a reversal.
26:11Bucz on the road!
26:15Now Lynch is right in the face of referee Jessica Card.
26:19Oh, come on now!
26:29AJ Lee!
26:34High flying cross body!
26:41As massive a title-changing upset as you will see.
26:46Maxine Dupree, this night is yours for women's Intercontinental Champion.
27:002025 was a breakout year for Maxine Dupree.
27:04A year defined by growth, grit, and a lot of guidance from one of the best to ever do it.
27:10Under the watchful eye of the self-proclaimed best of all time, Maxine has been pushed, challenged, and molded into a superstar with real championship pedigree.
27:20And that hard work paid off in spectacular fashion when Maxine Dupree stunned the entire WWE Universe by defeating the man Becky Lynch to become just the third women's Intercontinental Champion in WWE history.
27:34A career-defining moment, no doubt, but before the gold and the history-making victory, Maxine teamed up with her mentor Natalia in a tag-team showdown against Carmen Petrovic and Lainey Reed right here on Main Event.
27:48The following contest is a tag-team match schedule for one fall!
27:54Introducing first, accompanied by Akira Tozawa!
27:58The team of Maxine Dupree and Natalia!
28:11And the action starter here going straight to the Heart Dungeon!
28:26This brand-new tag team looking for some momentum to kick-start a massive weekend!
28:32As we welcome you in here, Blake Howard alongside the voice of NXT, Vic Joseph.
28:37Great to be back here on Main Event.
28:38Well, I'm glad you're back.
28:41Are you though?
28:42I am glad that you're back.
28:43How did snorkeling go?
28:44Listen, I gotta prepare for Perth coming up in a couple months.
28:47Well, you know what?
28:48I know what you're trying to do.
28:50Gotta get a head start!
28:51You're trying to get me all fired up here early on.
28:53I'm ready for an exciting tag-team contest.
28:55Look at the color coordination amongst these three.
28:57Natalia out here taking selfies among the WWE Universe.
29:02Tozawa sitting right there, center of the ring.
29:04How can you not smile when you see this trio?
29:08Look at the stamina monster there!
29:09Now that's a hat that he could really-
29:11You know what? That is a hat.
29:13That is something, I will say that.
29:14That is something.
29:16Well, there is a woman that I am very familiar with from NXT.
29:39And our opponents, the team of Lainey Reed and Carmen Petrovic!
30:07Well, we know we have one future Hall of Famer on the first team
30:10to perhaps a pair of future greats right here.
30:12As NXT represented once again here on Main Event,
30:15a relative newcomer in Lainey Reed alongside a superstar
30:18who was once in Maxime Dupree's current position.
30:21You know, you take a look at this matchup,
30:23and I've been thinking about this all day.
30:24I know these two women very well.
30:25You do as well down in Orlando at the Performance Center.
30:29This is such a huge opportunity for Reed and Petrovic.
30:34Win, lose, or draw, just to have the opportunity to step in this ring,
30:39in this environment, on this show, is a massive, massive chance for them.
30:44And of course, with the women's tag team titles on the line,
30:47kicking off Summer Slam Saturday, of course, here this weekend in New Jersey.
30:51Going to be an incredible weekend of action.
30:53Vic here, the first women's tag team match on Main Event since mid-January.
30:56A lot at stake right here for both teams.
30:58That's a great stat.
30:59I'm glad you brought up Maxine and Carmen Petrovic,
31:01and this is the spot, and under this tutelage and all that.
31:04Because look, Maxine has really found the right mentor.
31:07And I believe she is going to have bigger and better things come her way
31:11if she stays under the wing of Natalya.
31:13And Vic, last year on NXT, we did see Carmen Petrovic
31:16sitting under the learning tree of Natalya.
31:18Looks like things have done a bit of a 180.
31:20But look for Petrovic, she's gold-blooded.
31:22She's been close to becoming the WWE Evolve Women's Champion a few weeks back.
31:27But when it comes to Carmen Petrovic, she's trying to do things on her own.
31:30And again, to each their own on their journey here in the WWE.
31:33Natalya, another superstar who almost recently secured Evolve Women's Championship gold.
31:37As looks like she's going right for that sharpshooter here.
31:40Carmen, of course, spent some time in the dungeon.
31:43Look at the counter.
31:44And crawls right to the corner.
31:45And now Lainey Reed.
31:46We're going to feel the southern sets for the very first time here on Main Event.
31:50Yeah, Reed certainly has some southern charm but has no southern hospitality.
31:54But how will she fare stepping into the ring against Natalya?
31:59That's her big shot right there.
32:00It is Lainey Reed!
32:01And she's sent for a ride.
32:03As the boot connects with Natty by nature.
32:06Natalya looking to go right back to that sharpshooter.
32:09And Vic, we've seen Natalya from RAW to evolve to the reality of wrestling last weekend in AAA.
32:14What is Natalya proving to the world right now?
32:16What amazes me about Natalya is for as long as she has been in the WWE for all the records.
32:22Ooh!
32:23For all the championships.
32:24She is still reinventing herself.
32:26Evolving for the love of the game.
32:28Bringing along someone like Maxine.
32:30Bringing along someone like Tozawa.
32:33Bloodsport, Reality of Wrestling, which you mentioned.
32:35Oh!
32:36What a kick behind the official.
32:39You mentioned Bloodsport.
32:40Carmen Petrovic bringing a big shot in there.
32:43Oh!
32:44Right on Natalya.
32:45Now Lainey Reed unloading.
32:47And this tag team Vic coming together for the first time.
32:49Really looking to turn some heads.
32:51Yeah, look at Lainey Reed.
32:52Someone who will smile to you face to face and then stab you right in the back.
32:59You see Lainey Reed.
33:00We saw her first match in NXT a couple of months back.
33:02Competed for the NXT Women's Championship against J.C. Jane.
33:06Defeated Thea Hale.
33:07Certainly made a big impact thus far in NXT.
33:09Well, I'm glad you brought that up because she took on double champion J.C. Jane.
33:13Put a little respect on her name.
33:14I get yelled at every Tuesday for that.
33:16She pushed J.C. Jane to her limit.
33:18Was credited by the way by Charlotte Flair for helping her get back for SmackDown.
33:23and obviously get her ready for SummerSlam.
33:26Lainey Reed certainly turning some heads as she's looking to move up the charts right now.
33:30Oh!
33:31And no lack of confidence in Lainey.
33:33Another quick tag here to Carmen Petrovic.
33:35And Vic, this chemistry starting to come along.
33:37Oh!
33:38And look at that one-two.
33:40And there's that Shing Blade into the cover.
33:43Hooks the outside leg.
33:44Carmen looking for an upset.
33:45Blake, it's hard to argue that Carmen Petrovic isn't one of the best pure strikers in NXT.
33:52And now you're seeing the evolution of her game.
33:55Getting to the mat.
33:56Getting to the ground.
33:57And trying to wear down Natalya.
33:59Vic, you talk about evolution tonight.
34:00We're gonna see the friendship evolution of Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair.
34:04They're challenging the Judgment Day for the gold here at SummerSlam Saturday.
34:08It's gonna be an amazing weekend.
34:09First ever two-night SummerSlam.
34:11But right now I'm looking at Carmen Petrovic.
34:13This would be the biggest win of the career of Petrovic and Reed.
34:16If they're able to topple Maxine and the low-key legend Natalya shifts weight.
34:20You see Maxine chomping at the bit.
34:22Wanting to get inside this matchup.
34:23Lady Reed gets the tag.
34:24Natalya scratching and clawing.
34:26And this goes to Petrovic and Reed.
34:27They have cut that ring in half.
34:29Maxine has not even officially, I don't think, has gotten into this matchup.
34:32It's been quite some time since Maxine's made any sort of impact.
34:35But Natalya.
34:36Oh.
34:37Reed never got hit that hard on the track at Jacksonville State.
34:40Bringing that force.
34:41Looking for the tag.
34:42Whoa, whoa, whoa.
34:43And here she comes.
34:45Maxine Dupree, Vic.
34:46We've seen that confidence continue to grow.
34:48As Maxine looking more and more comfortable inside that ring.
34:51Maxine has put in the time.
34:52And now she's putting it all together on full display here on Main Event.
34:58Connection on the side of the head of Lainey Reed here.
35:00And now Maxine Dupree.
35:02You know, something else we've talked about is all the action this weekend.
35:04Here we go.
35:05Release Fisherman Suplex.
35:06A win here certainly would show that Maxine Natalya could be worthy of a tag team title opportunity down the line.
35:14The straps are down.
35:16Tozawa on the outside.
35:18Trying to get this one started.
35:21The hips are starting to swivel, Vic.
35:24And Maxine looking to start this weekend off right.
35:31A whoop whoop indeed.
35:34Hooks the outside leg into the cover.
35:37Oh!
35:38And the Dungeon Dolls right on the cusp.
35:39That whoop whoop almost brought him a win.
35:41But there's still a lot of fight.
35:43And Lainey Reed who's trying to find her partner a long way away from Petrovic.
35:47Both these teams looking to establish themselves.
35:49From behind from behind.
35:50Lainey Reed she got a handful of tights.
35:52Certainly dead and almost able to steal one.
35:54Right on the cusp there Vic.
35:55But look at Maxine staying right on top of things.
35:57Oh!
35:58Ankle lock.
35:59And Natalya.
36:01One of the moves that she's brought to Maxine Dupree's arsenal.
36:06That ankle lock connecting in the center of the ring.
36:08Nowhere for Lainey to go.
36:09Natalya.
36:10In the boot.
36:11Intercepts Petrovic.
36:12And here we go.
36:13Could be double submissions in the ring right here.
36:16Sharp shooter.
36:18Inkle lock.
36:19Sharp shooter.
36:20And slam the dungeon door.
36:25Here are your winners.
36:30By submission.
36:31The team of Maxine Dupree and Natalya.
36:37The teacher and student duo of Natalya and Maxine Dupree proved to be far too much for Carmen Petrovic and Lainey Reed to overcome.
36:48And if you thought that was a lot to handle, things are about to get downright seismic.
36:53Up next, two of WWE's most powerful forces collide as Otis goes toe-to-toe with the Bulgarian Brute, Rusev, in a heavyweight showdown that you do not wanna miss.
37:04That's coming your way next on the best of the event.
37:07Montreal, it's fight weekend.
37:14I'm automatic and innovative because of havoc.
37:18Friday night's SmackDown throws the first punch.
37:21You want it?
37:22You got it.
37:23Then, welcome to Saturday night's main event.
37:25Saturday night's main event goes for the knockout.
37:27Unbelievable.
37:28WWE hits back-to-back nights at the Bell Center.
37:32All action.
37:34All weekend.
37:36Tickets on sale now.
37:44Friday night's SmackDown and Saturday night's main event are coming to the Bell Center in Montreal on Friday, January 23rd and Saturday, January 24th.
37:54Combo and individual event tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.
37:58Montreal is in for an incredible weekend of WWE action.
38:06And speaking of big time events, we've saved one of our most heart-hitting matches for last here on Best of the Main Event.
38:13So without further ado, let's close things out with one of the most physical bouts of the year.
38:18Otis, who spent 20-25 reminding everyone just how dangerous he can be, stepped into the ring with a man who has built his entire career on overpowering anyone who dares stand across from him.
38:31Yes, I am talking about the Bulgarian brute, Rusev.
38:35This was a heavyweight showdown in every sense.
38:38It was strength, grit, and a test of who could hit harder and stand taller.
38:42A big time collision between two men built to dominate.
38:47The following contest is scheduled for one ball.
39:07Introducing first, accompanied by Akira Tozawa, weighing in at 330 pounds.
39:16Representing the Alpha Academy, Food Heads!
39:28As we get set for this match-up, featuring a powerful porterhouse alongside his flying fillet.
39:35Now, those aren't my words, those are the words of Blake Howard, of course.
39:38I was going to say, that's not the kind of lingo I expect from you, Vic Joseph.
39:41What do you mean by that?
39:42I'm just saying.
39:43Blake Howard's a little more.
39:45You can dig yourself out of this later.
39:47We'll get back into the match-up as we're getting set.
39:49And look, we've got to talk about what we just witnessed.
39:52Otis, Tozawa, how are they going to respond after the effort that Maxine Dupree put in this past week on the line?
40:02I think Otis and Tozawa should be motivated.
40:05I think they should be focused.
40:06I think they should have some mental momentum heading into tonight.
40:09Well, speaking about tonight, I know you're excited for what's coming up.
40:12It is the Survivor Series.
40:15You know what I'm ready for?
40:16Not just Survivor Series, you know what we're talking about, Vic.
40:18We're talking about the disarray, the lawlessness.
40:21And in the words of William Regal, we're ready for War Games!
40:511.
40:522.
40:531.
40:542.
40:552.
40:562.
40:572.
40:583.
40:594.
41:003.
41:014.
41:021.
41:034.
41:044.
41:055.
41:065.
41:075.
41:085.
41:095.
41:105.
41:125.
41:136.
41:147.
41:16Wymiano 270 lb, Rusep!
41:24All joking aside, have known Rusep for a long time.
41:30Is this, in your opinion Byron, the most dangerous he's ever been?
41:35Without question.
41:37As I said, I've had the pleasure of watching
41:39the maturation of Rusep over the years,
41:41the maturation in WWE, the maturation away from WWE.
41:44W mantenie, przyjście trzymać,
41:48tj.
41:48W
41:54istnieje jak w ten sposób,
41:55一定.
41:57Lewatko,
42:00tak,
42:02tak,
42:03jest
42:06Moczy,
42:08w of אותzy współpracę za
42:11Tak a look at the size of these two individuals.
42:14Rusev, około 310 lbs.
42:17Otis, około 330 lbs.
42:19I hope the ropes were reinforced for this match.
42:21I hope the steel beams were reinforced.
42:22I hope the entire ring was reinforced for this super heavyweight clash.
42:25That's 330 lbs for breakfast and lunch
42:28as they're getting ready to go.
42:30And we talk about the effort put forth by Maxine
42:33in Monday Night Raw this past Monday
42:36in New York City.
42:38You know, these guys really thrive off success.
42:41They thrive off each other's energy as well.
42:43And that's what's going to be interesting to me
42:44when it comes to Otis in this matchup.
42:46Will he be knocked off?
42:47Oh, and right to the throat.
42:49Couldn't even finish my sentence.
42:51Because there we see that destructive nature of Rusev.
42:54There's a reason why Rusev has been known as the super athlete.
42:58Do you think he's going to use his power?
42:59Do you think he's going to use his strength?
43:01No, he shows you he's got some agility in that playbook as well.
43:04Well, I'll ask you this too.
43:05I mean, is there anyone in this match that actually has a true strength advantage?
43:10Well, you're seeing right now the answer to your question, Vic, not at all.
43:14Right now, Otis with the slight edge.
43:16But two men who are very equally matched in the power department.
43:21Well, Otis getting the better right now.
43:22And this would be a massive win for Otis if he's able to knock off a man like Rusev
43:28here in New York City.
43:30Think about Rusev.
43:31Think about what's going on in his career.
43:33One of the competitors.
43:34Hold on.
43:35Hook of the leg into the cover.
43:36A near fall.
43:37One of the competitors in the last time is now tournament.
43:39Obviously a lot on his mind, but he's got to compartmentalize those thoughts.
43:42He's got to focus full heartedly on Otis right now.
43:44What an emotional night it was.
43:46Inside Madison Square Garden.
43:48John Cena's final raw, but right now Otis is down.
43:51Can he bounce back against Rusev?
43:58Y'all talk too much.
44:06I got a bone to pick with Jade Cargill.
44:08With your big egos and your big expectations.
44:12How strong is Jade Cargill?
44:18Putting everybody on notice.
44:23At this table, I'm that bitch.
44:27WrestleMania, Vegas, it's anyone's game.
44:32Back on Main Event.
44:45This is exactly what we thought it would be, Byron.
44:47It's been nothing short of a slugfest.
44:50Yeah, it's hard for you.
44:51The Rusev will Otis to maintain.
44:52Oh, nice spinning kick from Rusev.
44:55Into the cover, dropping Otis.
44:57And Otis getting that great tree trunk of an arm up.
45:00I was gonna say, it's been hard for either one of these men to have a sustained advantage
45:03in this match because they still are equally matched.
45:06Byron, you talk about knowing Rusev for a long time.
45:09Just how tough is Rusev?
45:11He's one of the toughest men I've ever been around.
45:13I've actually trained in the gym with Rusev.
45:15One training session with him, Vic.
45:17I had two weeks of deep tissue massages, saltwater baths, and perhaps a psychological therapy as well.
45:23Hey, listen to the WWE Universe trying to rally Otis here in New York City.
45:27Rusev having absolutely none of it.
45:30And you see the look, the intensity in the eyes, and now I feel bad for Otis.
45:37Because now that anger, that aggression coming out of Rusev.
45:42The thing about this too, if you're Rusev, you could have taken the week off, right?
45:45You could have waited for your next term match.
45:46Man.
45:47But Rusev wants to stay sharp for arguably one of the biggest opportunities in his career.
45:52Do you think that's going through the longevity of his career?
45:55Someone who has competed at WrestleMania saying, you know what?
45:59I need to stay sharp.
46:00I don't need to go home.
46:01I need to stay focused on the task at hand.
46:04And that's the difference of Rusev today compared to Rusev of five years ago.
46:08Understanding the work ethic in and out of the ring it takes to make it to the top.
46:13It is right now, wearing down Otis.
46:16And, oh, sharp kick to the spine.
46:19And it's not often you see Otis in this much pain.
46:23And Tozawa's got to do a lot on the outside to rally his tag team partner.
46:27Yeah, yeah, good luck Tozawa.
46:28I don't care what you say, how you try to encourage Otis right now.
46:31Otis is in some serious trouble right now and at the mercy of Rusev.
46:36WWE Universe really not showing any sort of love and support to Rusev, but Rusev right now-
46:45He doesn't care.
46:46He doesn't care about the universe.
46:47He doesn't care what people have to say.
46:49Rusev is in his own world right now, Vic.
46:51The only voice he wants to hear is his own.
46:53But wait a minute, he just got distracted by Tozawa on the far side,
46:56trying to rub up, ramp up those here in New York City.
47:00I don't think he got distracted, I think he got motivated.
47:03Think he got madder just by that, Byron?
47:04Exactly.
47:05Charging right in, and now Otis.
47:08This might be rally time.
47:10And-
47:11Oh, well that's-
47:13It's unusual, and lettuce isn't for a big man.
47:15Otis desperately needed something.
47:18Because Rusev was completely controlling this match.
47:21Here's a valuable opening, a critical opening for Otis.
47:24But what can he do with it now?
47:26Think about the lower back, but-
47:28How much strength can Otis have?
47:31After everything that's gone down in this matchup, but Otis right now-
47:34Picking up steam like a runner-rate train.
47:38Bulldozing his way through the body of Rusev.
47:41Looking at the deep wall of the train of Rusev now, if he's able to defeat him.
47:45Target acquired!
47:50And Otis right-
47:53Uh-oh.
47:54Uh-oh.
47:55Oh, here we go.
47:57Are we gonna see it, Vic?
47:58Are we gonna feel it?
48:00What are you gonna feel, Byron?
48:03I'm gonna feel the vibration.
48:04I guess we're not.
48:06Now I'm upset.
48:08Get back!
48:09Get back right now!
48:10Get back with that report!
48:12I think Tozawa immediately regretting that decision.
48:15But there comes big Otis on the outside.
48:18And this is starting to break down at this juncture of the matchup.
48:21I guess the verbal distraction worked out for Otis that time, courtesy of Tozawa.
48:26Otis getting right back in.
48:27And Otis now, you talked about being angry earlier.
48:30Otis is gonna be extra fired up, extra motivated, because Rusev just took out Tozawa.
48:36Standby!
48:37Second time's a turn!
48:38It is a work of art!
48:40It is the Caterpillar!
48:42Splat!
48:43Cover!
48:44Count!
48:45Oh!
48:46A kick out from Rusev.
48:50I'm not gonna lie.
48:51Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.
48:52We don't see Otis leave his feet.
48:54I like it!
48:55I like it!
48:56Look at Rusev!
48:57Rusev!
48:58Oh, right to the eyes!
48:59Otis is not gonna like this!
49:01Break of the face!
49:03One arm power bombing and bam!
49:06The Matska kick under the jaw!
49:09Rusev!
49:10Victorious!
49:11Here is your winner!
49:14Rusev!
49:17Otis had everything, Byron.
49:20Everything going for him.
49:21It got a little dicey there for Rusev in the end.
49:24But the intensity we talked about that this man maintains throughout the duration of a match paid off once again.
49:32Here you're talking about all the vibrations you want.
49:35And in this moment, Otis almost, almost had him, but this was the turning point.
49:41Rake of the face.
49:43Official didn't see it.
49:44Rusev with a big power bomb.
49:46One arm power bomb almost.
49:47And then bam!
49:48That Matska kick putting an end to Otis' night here on Main Events.
49:53In many ways, Rusev got what he wanted.
49:56He wanted to be pushed.
49:57He wanted to be sharpened.
49:59As he continues to compete in the last-time-is-out tournament.
50:03And there is the message.
50:04Is that the man that will face John Cena at Saturday night's main event?
50:09Here tonight, Rusev reigns supreme.
50:12The Bulgarian brute Rusev proved to be the bigger, stronger, and more dominant force on that night.
50:22And with that heavyweight showdown in the books, that's gonna do it for us.
50:25I hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane as we celebrated some of the most standout moments
50:30that made 2025 such a remarkable year on Main Event.
50:34Thanks so much for watching.
50:36I'm Megan Morant, wishing you all a happy, healthy, and safe 2026.
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