- 19 minutes ago
WWE Main Event - Season 14 Episode 52 -
Main Event 691
Main Event 691
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00:00Now
00:06Forever
00:15Together
00:22Together
00:52What's going on everyone? Welcome on in to part two of the best of made event. I'm your host Megan Morant and last week we set the bar sky high as we relive the most unforgettable moments from 2025. And believe it or not, we might just clear that bar today.
01:17This week's show is packed with even more incredible performances. And it all begins with a superstar who made main event her personal proving ground. Lyra Valkyria competed on main event four times in 2025. And every single time she stepped through those ropes, she was on a mission. But before we go any further, let's look back at Lyra's quest for championship gold.
01:40Last week, I walked into Raw ready to become a history maker.
01:49The following contest is for the WWE Women Intercontinental Championship!
01:59And that meant spreading my wings and shedding any dead feathers that made me doubt the heights I knew I was capable of reaching.
02:08I took fear, I took doubt and I used them to become something more.
02:18And now that I have this, it's about what comes next. And what comes next is building a legacy as a valiant fighter.
02:46Women's Intercontinental Champion.
02:55Lyra Valkyria etched her name into WWE history when she became the inaugural Women's Intercontinental Champion.
03:03Holding the title for an impressive 144 days before losing the gold to her former friend and mentor, the man, Becky Lynch.
03:13But Lyra didn't spend long dwelling on the loss, just two months removed from dropping the title.
03:18She was back on main event to test herself against another former champion, Kairi Sane.
03:23The following contest is scheduled for one call.
03:28Introducing first, from Dublin, Ireland, Lyra Valkyria!
03:37Getting the action started with the resilient and mystical warrior who's looking to add another feather of victory to her collection right here today.
03:46We welcome you in, Blake Howard alongside the voice of NXT, Vic Joseph. Vic, I know you're still feeling the heat from last weekend at Heatwave.
03:55Certainly am excited to be here with you, ready to get the action underway. And these are two superstars I'm very familiar with, the first being Lyra Valkyria, a former NXT Women's Champion.
04:04As Lyra has certainly had an incredible couple years here in the WWE, Vic, her opponent tonight, can certainly match one of those accolades.
04:13Certainly can, and you know what, I think a lot of people have been sleeping on Kairi Sane.
04:18Kairi Sane.
04:48And her opponent, accompanied by Asuka, representing the Kabuki Warriors, Kairi Sane!
05:03Well, from the battlefield to the high seas as the Pirate Princess set for action.
05:07Both superstars certainly looking to make some noise, get the attention of Raw General Manager Adam Pearce.
05:12But as we talked about, Vic, two former NXT Women's Champions set for a battle.
05:17They're two very decorated individuals throughout their time in WWE. I don't want to get a twist.
05:21You're looking at Kairi Sane and Asuka, former WWE Women's Tag Team Champions.
05:26You're talking about someone in Lyra Valkyria, who is a former WWE Women's Intercontinental Champion.
05:32So there's a lot at stake here with these two women, because if you start to dig deeper, Blake,
05:36you start to think about championship picture, you start thinking about championship contention moving on here through 2025.
05:44Of course, the situation around the Women's World Championship, a bit cloudy right now.
05:48So a lot at stake for both superstars.
05:50A lot at stake, too, for General Manager of Monday Night Raw, Adam Pearce.
05:53I mean, there's a lot on his plate.
05:55It just seems that every week there's more thrown onto his back.
05:58He, though, has done a phenomenal job at handling all the superstars, all the situation that's been thrown his way.
06:05We're very interested to see what happens with the Women's World Championship Mondays on Raw.
06:11Talk about the jockeying for position in the tag team ranks that Adam Pearce has to deal with on a weekly basis.
06:16And now right here, as we're looking at two potential contenders for the Women's World Championship here,
06:23as the bell sounds are underway, Vic.
06:25But going back to some championship contention, how much frustration is Lyra feeling after being unable to recapture
06:30that Women's Intercontinental title at SummerSlam from Becky Lee?
06:33Well, wouldn't you be frustrated?
06:35Of course.
06:36I mean, there'd be frustration in going through your blood, too, right?
06:38It'd be boiling a little bit.
06:39So she's got to go out here and do what she's done her whole career.
06:42Stay calm, stay cool, stay collected, focus on the task at hand, pick up a victory, and restart building momentum.
06:48That was, of course.
06:49And also hope that Nikki Bella can capture the WWE Women's Intercontinental Championship so she could have another opportunity.
06:56Indeed, as Lyra, of course, cannot get an opportunity at Becky Lynch.
06:59But in that matchup, Vic, what did she ultimately prove to her former mentor?
07:02I think she proved to her former mentor a long time ago that she's just as good, if not better.
07:07If you look at the win-loss record between the two, it's pretty good for Lyra Valkyria.
07:12That's Lyra looking to stay one step ahead of Kyrie Sane right now.
07:15But, of course, in that matchup, we saw Lyra have her hands full.
07:18And seemingly now, Lyra's emotions, how do they currently sit as it relates to one bait?
07:22I don't necessarily know that answer because, look, I don't like to speak for other individuals.
07:27I don't like to speak for other people.
07:28But when it comes to Lyra Valkyria, she is someone who maybe wears her heart on her sleeve.
07:32She tells you how she feels as, right now, the WWE Universe reacting to Lyra Valkyria.
07:37As Lyra, again, staying one step ahead of Kyrie Sane.
07:41Big take down there.
07:42Here we go.
07:43Hooks the outside leg.
07:44Only gets one right now.
07:45But, Vic, flat out, if it wasn't for Bayley, would Lyra Valkyria be the Women's Intercontinental Champion?
07:50Well, I would like to think she would be.
07:53But as Booker T would tell you, woulda, coulda, shoulda.
07:56Don't really know the answer to that one.
07:58So let's not play hypotheticals.
07:59Let's just talk about the here and the now.
08:01There's no championship gold around her waist.
08:03And her opponent is also looking to get championship gold back around hers.
08:07That here and the now is Kyrie Sane maintaining control, going to the top rope.
08:11We know how comfortable she is up there.
08:13Lyra charges in.
08:15You know, it's something else that we need to talk about with both these women.
08:18They have their eye on what's going on in NXT and the NXT Women's Division.
08:22We talk about a plethora of talent down there.
08:25We talk about two former NXT Women's Champions right here, Vic.
08:28Of 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.
08:35Cover.
08:36Big shot there to Lyra.
08:37Hooks the outside leg.
08:38And look, there's a lot going on with Kyrie Sane too, Blake.
08:40I mean, all the drama surrounding Io Sky as we saw this past week on Raw.
08:44Where is she?
08:45Where is her head at?
08:46Is right now, what is she trying to do?
08:48As Kyrie Sane bringing Lyra Valkyria to the apron here.
08:51Very dangerous part of the ring.
08:53As Kyrie tying Lyra up here, Vic.
08:59Oh!
09:01Yikes.
09:02That's certainly a shot that rings throughout the arena.
09:03I wish she'd come over here and do that to you.
09:05Why do you say that?
09:06Yeah.
09:07Just one of those days.
09:09As Lyra in a tough spot right now and Kyrie Sane, you see Asuka on the outside, Vic.
09:14They could be looking at a third women's tag title run.
09:17They could be, but right now Lyra Valkyria trying to block, trying to shift the momentum in this matchup.
09:23Able to create a little bit of separation and let's see if Lyra's gonna fly.
09:27Some dangerous waters here!
09:29And Lyra dropping Kyrie Sane.
09:33And Kyrie Sane, you see Asuka starting to cheer on her tag team partner.
09:36Gotta keep your eye on Asuka though.
09:37She's starting to get a little too close.
09:39And now Lyra looking to add another feather to that collection right here, Vic.
09:43She's going all the way upstairs.
09:44Target acquired.
09:45Just like Kyrie, very comfortable.
09:47Oh no.
09:48But a big miss and now Kyrie looking to capitalize here.
09:52Miscalculation by Valkyria.
09:54And we know Sane looking to go to the top of the stacked Raw women's division.
09:58Alabama slam.
09:59Into the jet knife cover.
10:01And Lyra able to escape Vic.
10:03This one back and forth right here.
10:04A lot to prove for both superstars.
10:06Hey, we know we've talked about it already.
10:08When again in championship contention.
10:09I think also when you're Kyrie Sane, when you're talking about Asuka as well,
10:14they're trying to send a message somewhat to Io Sky.
10:17They laid it down.
10:18Do not talk to, do not befriend, do not help Rhea Ripley.
10:23Maybe Kyrie Sane let out a little extra aggression as this matchup goes on.
10:27But nice combination offense from Valkyria.
10:29We've certainly seen that tension between Asuka and Io Sky.
10:32You almost wonder is Kyrie Sane doing that damage control.
10:34Oh, damn.
10:35And there's a big spinning back fist into the cover.
10:38Will that do it?
10:39I don't know how Lyra Valkyria was able to kick out.
10:44I mean, that was flush.
10:46Talk about a stunner right there.
10:48But now Kyrie, she might be looking to end things right here.
10:51Asuka echoing that sentiment.
10:54And now Kyrie Sane looks to fly, Vic.
10:58Didn't work earlier for Lyra Valkyria.
11:00We'll see.
11:01It looked a little bit too much.
11:02I don't know how Lyra's back up.
11:04Sane is a genuine highlight reel here.
11:06Going for it all into the crossbody.
11:08But Lyra rolls through.
11:09Oh, nice change of momentum.
11:11Look at the power.
11:12Look at the strength.
11:13Channeling the spirit of the Morgan here.
11:15Knight wing.
11:18And add another feather to Lyra's collection.
11:25Here is your winner, Lyra Valkyria.
11:30That win doesn't just build momentum.
11:33It also lets Adam Pearce know, when the opportunity rises,
11:38I will soar, I will flourish.
11:41What a victory for Lyra Valkyria.
11:44Lyra Valkyria proved exactly why she carries herself like a champion.
11:48Gunning out a big win over Kyrie Sane on her way to four straight victories on Main Event in 2025.
11:54And speaking of streaks, the War Raiders were on an absolute rampage this year.
11:59Eric and Ivar entered their matchup against Los Americanos with a perfect 9-0 record, demolishing anyone who dares stand in their way.
12:09But Los Americanos, they weren't intimidated.
12:11They were hungry.
12:12And they were looking to shock the world.
12:14Bat Tag Team Clash is headed your way next on the Best of Main Event.
12:19The Best of Main Event.
12:26The Best of Main Event.
12:31Royal Rumble is presented by Cricket.
12:59Join Cricket Nation and get reliable nationwide 5G.
13:03Smile, you're on Cricket.
13:05And by Ramtruck, nothing stops Ram.
13:08And by Intuit TurboTax, now this is Taxes.
13:14Ah, the Royal Rumble has always held a special place in my heart
13:18because there's just nothing quite like it.
13:2130 superstars, one ring, and a ticket to WrestleMania hanging in the balance.
13:25It's chaotic, unpredictable, and the perfect way to launch the road to WrestleMania.
13:30I would bet these four superstars have that same dream in mind.
13:34And with the way the War Raiders competed this year,
13:37you can't blame them for eyeing a spot in the Men's Royal Rumble match.
13:40Eric and Ivar entered their showdown with Los Americanos,
13:43riding an impressive nine-match win streak on main event.
13:47But even the strongest runs meet resistance
13:50as Los Americanos came in looking to shock the world
13:54while the War Raiders pushed toward a milestone 10th straight victory.
14:00Oh, Vic, you ready for war once again?
14:04I'm wondering how many meat analogies you're going to make during this matchup.
14:08But to answer your question, I'm always ready for war.
14:12The Void is a tag team match kid of the one call.
14:31Introducing first, at a combined weight of 597 pounds,
14:37Herring, it's Ivar, the War Raiders!
14:45Blake, we're ready for war tonight,
14:46but we certainly had a showdown earlier this week
14:49between NXT and TNA.
14:52What a week it has been,
14:54and it continues today in Perth with Crown Jewel.
14:58And that showdown certainly was heavy in the tag team division this past Tuesday.
15:02As for the second consecutive week here, the War Raiders.
15:04On main event this year as they look to keep making their championship case
15:09to Raw GM Adam Pearce.
15:11Speaking of GMs, got to give a lot of credit to the NXT general manager,
15:14that being Ava, and those that work for her,
15:17such as the Prime Minister of Evolve, C.B. Turner,
15:20and the one and only Mr. Rob Stone,
15:22to work so well with TNA Directors Authority, Santino Morello.
15:27Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole!
15:32Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole! Ole Ole! Ole! Ole Ole! Ole Ole!
16:02Is he? I don't know for a fact.
16:03But earlier, every time we saw him before, he always, oh, that shit.
16:06Yet you spoke with so much authority and conviction.
16:10Is he out there now?
16:12The rumor mill's running wild right there.
16:14Listen, Vic, I know you're getting your crown jewel party started early here for Los Americanos.
16:18Show some respect. These are all three are legendary luchadors.
16:23The more that I've learned about them by talking to Corey Graves, who, of course, is the voice of AAA.
16:28He has talked about how these three men have battled the likes of Mil Mastris, Blue Demon, Super Porky, as a matter of fact.
16:36All three of these men have statues being built of them just outside of Mexico City, by the way.
16:41I don't think you've ever been to those cities, but that is what I have been told from Corey Graves.
16:45So how long have they been around?
16:47Oh, well over a decade. I mean, it made their name throughout Mexico.
16:51You see what they're doing right now in this matchup.
16:53I mean, this is a huge, huge matchup for Main Event.
16:56We are all a part of history in the making.
17:00So I guess we can call this Uno in here right now?
17:02See, this is what you think you're funny.
17:04They're not the Los Conquistadors.
17:06You know what? Keep it up.
17:08I'm already calling Braun Breaker after, and after this, we're going to have a conversation with these three.
17:13As Ivar shuts down any offense right here from Los Americanos.
17:16But, Vic, talking about the War Raiders, how many times do they need to defeat the New Day to prove a point?
17:21Look, that's a great question.
17:22That's one that I cannot answer. That is for the general manager of Monday Night Raw.
17:26But, look, as much as we want to talk about the opponents in here being renowned in Mexico,
17:30the War Raiders are well-known in Japan.
17:32And Booker tells me all the time how helpful going over to Japan was early in his career.
17:37Look at these double teams right here by Los Americanos.
17:40And a big pose.
17:42Oh, and so now you like them?
17:43Don't let that entrance fool you.
17:45I mean, it was grand, it was impressive, but when the bell rings, it is all business for these two.
17:51As they look to control the pace right here against Ivar.
17:53Of course, El Grande Americano has had his issues with AJ Styles.
17:57And tonight, Vic, the phenomenal one, and John Cena, one final time.
18:00One final time.
18:01It's going to be absolutely amazing as another quick tag was made.
18:05I guess, is this Dose now?
18:06You called him Uno at the start of the matchup.
18:10I'm sorry, I got confused.
18:12One's wearing blue, one's wearing red.
18:14Like, how hard is it to figure out?
18:16So Uno and blue, Dose and red.
18:18You call him whenever you want, because after this, you're going to have some words with all three of these men as a tag was made.
18:22Some high elevation right there.
18:24Here comes Eric.
18:25And, of course, Eric, who's going to continue this pace right now?
18:28War Raiders, by the way, so well-rounded.
18:31And I 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, like we're seeing on display with the power right now for these two.
18:43And, of course, that tag team cohesion.
18:45And it looks like Eric going to pick up Ivar.
18:47That's a whole lot of meat right there, Vic.
18:49Here's your first meat reference.
18:50And also, I forgot to mention the combination offense.
18:53They are truly the total package.
18:55Sending Los Americanos to the outside.
18:57El Grande Americano trying to get him back.
18:59But right now, the War Raiders in control here on Main Event.
19:02The whole acquaintance before God
19:13And never brought to your mind
19:17The whole acquaintance before God
19:23It's almost time to celebrate the new year
19:25And evil has risen again
19:28Big tag team match here on Main Event.
19:38Eric and Ivar controlling things right now against Los Americanos.
19:42And look at Eric right now with this high elevation.
19:46All the blood rushing to the head here of Dose.
19:48As much as we talked about in the opening matchup with the tag team division in SmackDown,
19:51And you already brought up the new day.
19:55War Raiders don't care who they face.
19:57They don't care what show it's on, what brand, what day of the week.
20:00They're out here to punish and pick up victories.
20:02But the referee was distracted.
20:04And look at what's going on now.
20:06Combination offense indeed.
20:07But this time from Los Americanos.
20:09And driving Eric face first.
20:13Here we go.
20:14Los Americanos into the cover.
20:15Shoulders are down.
20:17I got to give a lot of credit to El Grande Americano here on the outside.
20:20Recruiting two of his friends to help guide them, build them up.
20:23And now they are here in the WWE.
20:26Well, Vic, you certainly can't discount quite the skill set inside the ring here for Los Americanos.
20:30When you talk to, you know, Corey Graves, who obviously knows these guys so very well with everything going on in AAA.
20:35I think something is forgotten is when these three men started their careers over a decade ago in Mexico.
20:41They had to fight to survive.
20:43They had to fight to eat.
20:45The winner's purse, so to speak, that Booker always talks about on Tuesday.
20:48Go into the pay window.
20:49So that's why I'm saying now you're seeing a more aggressive style from these two.
20:53And what did you call it?
20:54This is Dos in your words?
20:56I believe it is.
20:57Those are your words, not mine.
20:58He's the aggressor of the group.
21:00He's the one that's going to ground, pound, and tear your ligaments apart.
21:03Trying to do that to Eric right here.
21:05Eric trying to get up and make a tag, but shuts him right down yet again.
21:08Of course, we've got a big tag team clash right here, tag made.
21:11But, of course, another big one on the horizon.
21:13L.A. Knight now has CM Punk by his side in a battle with the Megastars' new rivals, the Usos.
21:18Huge match still to come.
21:19Monday Night Raw, nice double suplex.
21:23Listen, Vic, can't take it away from them.
21:24These guys really working well together.
21:25They've been working together for well over a decade.
21:28I've now told you that three times, Blake.
21:29Do you just not accept the fact of the grandeur, the lineage, the history that we're witnessing right now on main event?
21:37The War Raiders have been on quite a roll on Monday Night Raw as well as main event right now.
21:41But Los Americanos looking to throw a wrench in the plans, of course.
21:44Everyone looking at the Judgment Day and those World Tag Team Championships.
21:47We talked earlier about that SmackDown tag team division really getting clouded.
21:51Raw is getting pretty stacked as well.
21:52It is.
21:52You look at NXT as well.
21:55How about that showdown this past Tuesday?
21:56That showdown was absolutely amazing, and that's what I'm talking about.
22:00Everybody's so hungry right now in the WWE, no matter what the brand is.
22:05Everyone wants their name in the marquee.
22:06And for the War Raiders, they know that every victory is so important to get their name back into championship contention.
22:14As Eric on the comeback trail right here.
22:15And Vic, ultimately, what has that roadblock been for the War Raiders in the tag team division?
22:19I don't like to throw the New Day under the bus, but I think it's because the New Day is scared.
22:24I mean, that just means...
22:26El Grande Americano now, El Grande, a manager right there on the outside.
22:31He didn't even know the word to use, but I'll let you slide on that one.
22:34But whatever he's managing didn't work out because the advice is not very good whenever someone's running in to someone like Ivar.
22:42Oh, over 300 pounds coming, crashing down right there.
22:51It's a stick and move strategy, but it's not going to work right here.
22:55Flattened.
22:56That was a rump roast.
22:57It's Dos.
22:59And now Uno in here.
23:01It's not Uno and Dos, Blake.
23:03Show some respect.
23:05As Eric and Ivar are starting to cook right now.
23:08Ivar has him in position.
23:09Double underhook.
23:10Into the powerbomb.
23:11Sits out with it.
23:12Shoulders are down.
23:13Oh!
23:14And a big save right there.
23:16This one's starting to break down a bit.
23:17All four superstars are in.
23:20As Los Americanos looking to pull off a major upset.
23:23Oh!
23:24And a gut buster there by Eric.
23:27And a big knee right underneath the jaw.
23:30Oh!
23:31And the action flying right here, Vic.
23:33You can't say it again.
23:35This, that speed.
23:36This, that quickness.
23:37This is, what, 10 years of high-level Lucha Libre action.
23:43Oh!
23:43Oh, I spoke a little bit too soon.
23:46As Ivar showing off this.
23:47Wait a minute.
23:48Vic, what did he just take out of his trucks?
23:50I think we've seen it in the past.
23:52And he handed it over.
23:55Well, the referee loading it up in his mask right now.
23:58The referee didn't see it.
23:59Referee checking on one of the Americanos.
24:01Ivar trying to take advantage.
24:02He gets clipped from behind.
24:04He can say that again.
24:05Just his knees buckled.
24:06And now the double team in place right here.
24:09Divide and conquer.
24:11Oh!
24:11He can destroy in that loaded mask.
24:13Indeed, the mask connects.
24:15Into the cover.
24:16Do you believe in miracles?
24:18That is an upset.
24:20Here are your winners.
24:22Los Americanos!
24:23As much as I want to talk about over a decade of experience, coming here to the WWE, taking
24:30on a team like the War Raiders, you've got to consider that an upset.
24:33It's a massive upset for the first time in 2025.
24:36The War Raiders lose here on main event.
24:38Let's take a look.
24:39The double team with that loaded mask comes into play.
24:42And Los Americanos come away with a huge win.
24:52Los Americanos delivered one of the biggest shocks of the year, ending the War Raiders'
24:57undefeated streak here on main event in stunning fashion.
25:00And the intensity only builds from there, as Natalya and Maxine Dupree step into the ring
25:05to face Carmen Petrovic and Lainey Reed in a high-stakes tag team clash that promises
25:10plenty of fireworks, next on the Best of Maine event.
25:30The women's intercontinental champ, Becky Lynch, defending in the world's most famous arena.
25:51Maxine, Becky, Madison, Square, Garden.
25:56Oh, what a hot start for Maxine!
26:00Becky Lynch is writhing in pain!
26:04Wow, what a reversal!
26:09What's on the road?
26:11Now Lynch is right in the face of referee Jessica Card.
26:15Oh, come on now!
26:24AJ Lee!
26:26High-flying cross-body!
26:36As massive a title-changing upset as you will see!
26:41Maxine Dupree, this night is yours for women's intercontinental champ!
26:472025 was a breakout year for Maxine Dupree, a year defined by growth, grit, and a whole
27:03lot of guidance from one of the best to ever do it.
27:06Under the watchful eye of the self-proclaimed best of all time, Maxine has been pushed, challenged,
27:11and molded into a superstar with real championship pedigree.
27:15And that hard work paid off in spectacular fashion when Maxine Dupree stunned the entire
27:21WWE Universe by defeating the man, Becky Lynch, to become just the third women's intercontinental
27:27champion in WWE history.
27:29A career-defining moment, no doubt, but before the gold and the history-making victory, Maxine
27:35teamed up with her mentor, Natalia, in a tag-team showdown against Carmen Petrovich and Lainey
27:41Reid right here on Main Event.
27:43The following contest is a tag-team match!
28:05Skiddle for one call!
28:07Introducing first, accompanied by Akira Tozawa, the team of Maxine Dupree and Natalia!
28:19Getting the action started here, going straight to the Heart Dungeon.
28:22This brand-new tag team looking for some momentum to kick-start a massive weekend.
28:28As we welcome you in here, Blake Howard alongside the voice of NXT, Vic Joseph.
28:32Great to be back here on Main Event.
28:34Well, I'm glad you're back.
28:37Are you, though?
28:37I am glad that you're back.
28:39How did snorkeling go?
28:40Listen, I gotta prepare for Perth coming up in a couple months.
28:43Well, you know what?
28:44I know what you're trying to do.
28:45You're trying to get me all fired up here early on.
28:48I'm ready for an exciting tag-team contest.
28:50Look at the color coordination amongst these three.
28:53Natalia out here taking selfies among the WWE Universe.
28:57Tozawa sitting right there, center of the ring.
28:59How can you not smile when you see this trio?
29:03Look at the stamina monster there.
29:04Now, that's a hat that he could really wear.
29:06You know what?
29:07That is a hat.
29:08That is something.
29:09I will say that.
29:10That is something.
29:11Well, there is a woman that I am very familiar with from NXT.
29:34And our opponents, the team of Lainey Reed and Carmen Petrovic.
30:01Well, we know we have one future Hall of Famer on the first team to perhaps a pair of future
30:06greats right here as NXT represented once again here on Main Event.
30:10A relative newcomer in Lainey Reed alongside a superstar who was once in Maxine Dupree's
30:15current position.
30:16You know, you take a look at this matchup, and I've been thinking about this all day.
30:19I know these two women very well.
30:20You do as well down in Orlando at the Performance Center.
30:24This is such a huge opportunity for Reed and Petrovic.
30:29Win, lose, or draw.
30:31Just to have the opportunity to step in this ring, in this environment, on this show, is
30:37a massive, massive chance for them.
30:39And, of course, with the women's tag team titles on the line, kicking off Summer Slam
30:43Saturday, of course, here this weekend in New Jersey.
30:46Going to be an incredible weekend of action.
30:48Vic here, the first women's tag team match on Main Event since mid-January.
30:52A lot at stake right here for both teams.
30:53That's a great stat.
30:54And I'm glad you brought up Maxine and Carmen Petrovic, and this is the spot, and under this
30:58tutelage and all that.
30:59Because, look, Maxine has really found the right mentor.
31:03And I believe she is going to have bigger and better things come her way if she stays
31:07under the wing of Natalya.
31:08And, Vic, last year on NXT, we did see Carmen Petrovic sitting under the learning tree of
31:12Natalya.
31:13Looks like things have done a bit of a 180.
31:15Well, look, for Petrovic, she's gold-blooded.
31:17She's been close to becoming the WWE Evolve Women's Champion a few weeks back.
31:22But when it comes to Carmen Petrovic, she's trying to do things on her own.
31:25And, again, to each their own on their journey here in the WWE.
31:28Natalya, another superstar who almost recently secured Evolve Women's Championship gold.
31:33As looks like she's going right for that sharpshooter here.
31:35Carmen, of course, spent some time in the dungeon.
31:38Look at the counter.
31:39And crawls right to the corner.
31:40And now Lainey Reed.
31:41We're going to feel the Southern sets for the very first time here on Main Event.
31:45Yeah, Reed certainly has some Southern charm, but has no Southern hospitality.
31:49But how will she fare stepping into the ring against Natalya?
31:54That's her big shot right there.
31:55It is Lainey Reed.
31:57And she's sent for a ride as the boot connects with Natty by nature.
32:01Natalya looking to go right back to that sharpshooter.
32:05And, Vic, we've seen Natalya from Raw to evolve to the reality of wrestling last weekend in AAA.
32:10What is Natalya proving to the world right now?
32:12What amazes me about Natalya is for as long as she has been in the WWE, for all the records, for all the championships, she is still reinventing herself.
32:22Evolving for the love of the game.
32:23Bringing along someone like Maxine.
32:26Bringing along someone like Tozawa.
32:28Bloodsport, reality of wrestling, which you mentioned.
32:31Oh, what a kick behind the official.
32:34You mentioned Bloodsport.
32:35Carmen Petrovic bringing a big shot in there.
32:38Right on Natalya, now Lainey Reed unloading.
32:42And this tag team, Vic, coming together for the first time, really looking to turn some heads.
32:46Yeah, look at Lainey Reed.
32:47Someone who will smile to you face-to-face and then stab you right in the back.
32:54We see Lainey Reed.
32:55We saw her first match in NXT a couple of months back.
32:58Competed for the NXT Women's Championship against J.C. Jane.
33:01Defeated Thea Hale.
33:03Certainly made a big impact thus far in NXT.
33:05Well, I'm glad you brought that up because she took on double champion J.C. Jane.
33:09Put a little respect on her name.
33:10I get yelled at every Tuesday for that.
33:11She pushed J.C. Jane to her limit.
33:13Was credited, by the way, by Charlotte Flair for helping her get back for SmackDown
33:18and obviously get her ready for SummerSlam.
33:21Lainey Reed certainly turning some heads as she's looking to move up the charts right now.
33:25Oh!
33:26And no lack of confidence in Lainey.
33:28Another quick tag here to Carmen Petrovic.
33:30And Vic, this chemistry starting to come along.
33:33And look at that one-two.
33:34And there's that Shing Blade into the cover.
33:38Hooks the outside like Carmen looking for an upset.
33:41Blake, it's hard to argue that Carmen Petrovic isn't one of the best pure strikers in NXT.
33:48And now you're seeing the evolution of her game getting to the mat, getting to the ground,
33:52and trying to wear down Natalya.
33:54If you talk about evolution tonight, we're going to see the friendship evolution of Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair.
33:59They're challenging the Judgment Day for the gold here at SummerSlam Saturday.
34:03It's going to be an amazing weekend, first-ever two-night SummerSlam.
34:06But right now I'm looking at Carmen Petrovic.
34:08This would be the biggest win of the career of Petrovic and Reed.
34:11If they're able to topple Maxine and the low-key legend, Natalya shifts weight.
34:16You see Maxine chopping at the bit.
34:17Wanted to get inside this matchup.
34:19Lainey Reed gets the tag.
34:20Natalya scratching and clawing.
34:21And this goes to Petrovic and Reed.
34:23They have cut that ring in half.
34:24Maxine has not even officially, I don't think, has gotten into this matchup.
34:27It's been quite some time since Maxine's made any sort of impact.
34:30But Natalya.
34:32Oh.
34:33Reed never got hit that hard on the track at Jacksonville State.
34:36Bringing that force.
34:37Looking for the tag.
34:38And here she comes.
34:40Maxine Dupree, Vic.
34:41We've seen that confidence continue to grow.
34:43As Maxine looking more and more comfortable inside that ring.
34:46Maxine has put in the time and now she's putting it all together on full display here on Main Event.
34:53Connection on the side of the head of Lainey Reed here.
34:56And now Maxine Dupree.
34:57You know, something else we've talked about is all the action this weekend.
34:59Here we go.
35:01Release Fisherman Suplex.
35:02A win here certainly would show that Maxine Natalya could be worthy of a tag team title opportunity down the line.
35:10The straps are down.
35:12Tozawa on the outside.
35:13Trying to get this one started.
35:18The hips are starting to swivel, Vic.
35:23And Maxine looking to start this weekend off right.
35:28A whoop whoop indeed.
35:30Hooks the outside leg into the cover.
35:33Oh, and the dungeon dolls right on the cusp.
35:35That whoop whoop almost brought him a win.
35:36But there's still a lot of fight in Lainey Reed who's trying to find her partner a long way away from Petrovic.
35:42Both these teams looking to establish themselves a legitimate contendency here.
35:45Lainey Reed, she's got a handful of tights.
35:47Burnley dead and almost able to steal one.
35:49Right on the cusp there, Vic.
35:51But look at Maxine staying right on top of things.
35:53Oh!
35:54Akole lock.
35:55And Natalya.
35:57One of the moves that she's brought to Maxine Dupree's arsenal.
36:01That ankle lock connecting in the center of the ring.
36:04Nowhere for Lainey to go.
36:05Natalya.
36:05And the boop.
36:06Intercepts Petrovic.
36:07And here we go.
36:08Could be double submissions in the ring right here.
36:12Sharp shooter.
36:14Akole lock.
36:15Sharp shooter.
36:16And slam the dungeon door.
36:23Here are your winners.
36:26By submission, the team of Maxine Dupree and Natalya.
36:32The teacher and student duo of Natalya and Maxine Dupree proved to be far too much for
36:40Carmen Petrovic and Lainey Reed to overcome.
36:43And if you thought that was a lot to handle, things are about to get downright seismic.
36:49Up next, two of WWE's most powerful forces collide as Otis goes toe-to-toe with the
36:54Bulgarian brute, Rusev, in a heavyweight showdown that you do not want to miss.
36:59That's coming your way next on the Best of Main Events.
37:07Montreal.
37:08It's fight weekend.
37:11I'm automatic and independent because I have it.
37:13Friday night's SmackDown throws the first punch.
37:16You want it?
37:17You got it.
37:18Welcome to Saturday night's Main Event.
37:20Saturday night's Main Event goes for the knockout.
37:22Unbelievable.
37:23WWE hits back-to-back nights at the Bell Center.
37:28All action.
37:30All weekend.
37:33Tickets on sale now.
37:34Friday night's SmackDown and Saturday night's Main Event are coming to the Bell Center in Montreal
37:45on Friday, January 23rd and Saturday, January 24th.
37:50Combo and individual event tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.
37:54Montreal is in for an incredible weekend of WWE action.
38:02And speaking of big-time events, we've saved one of our most hard-hitting matches for last
38:07here on Best of Main Event.
38:08So without further ado, let's close things out with one of the most physical bouts of the year.
38:13Otis, who spent 20-25 reminding everyone just how dangerous he can be,
38:18stepped into the ring with a man who has built his entire career on overpowering anyone who
38:25dares stand across from him.
38:26Yes, I am talking about the Bulgarian brute, Rusev.
38:30This was a heavyweight showdown in every sense.
38:33It was strength, grit, and a test of who could hit harder and stand taller.
38:37A big-time collision between two men built to dominate.
38:43The following contest is scheduled for one ball.
39:02Introducing first, accompanied by Akira Tozawa, weighing in at 330 pounds,
39:11representing the Alpha Academy, Poodhead!
39:23As we get set for this matchup, featuring a powerful porterhouse alongside his flying filet.
39:31Now, those aren't my words.
39:32Those are the words of Blake Howard, of course.
39:34I was going to say, that's not the kind of lingo I expect from you, Vic Joseph.
39:37What do you mean by that?
39:38I'm just saying, Blake Howard's, uh...
39:41You can dig yourself out of this later.
39:43We'll get back into the matchup as we're getting set.
39:45But anyway, we've got to talk about what we just witnessed.
39:49Otis, Tozawa, how are they going to respond after the effort that Maxine Dupree put in this past weekend?
39:57I think Otis and Tozawa should be motivated.
40:00I think they should be focused.
40:01I think they should have some mental momentum heading into tonight.
40:05Well, speaking about tonight, I know you're excited for what's coming up.
40:08It is the Survivor Series.
40:10You know what I'm ready for?
40:11Not just Survivor Series.
40:13You know what we're talking about, Vic.
40:14We're talking about the disarray, the lawlessness.
40:16And in the words of William Regal, we're ready for War Games!
41:20But all joking aside, you have known Rusev for a very, very long time.
41:25Is this, in your opinion, Byron, the most dangerous he's ever been?
41:30Without question.
41:32As you said, I've had the pleasure of watching the maturation of Rusev over the years.
41:36The maturation in WWE.
41:38The maturation away from WWE.
41:40But this man right here wakes up intense.
41:43He functions intense.
41:45He only knows one mode that is intense.
41:48And that makes him one of the most dangerous superstars in WWE, period.
41:53One person who will not back down from the intensity, and Rusev is that man, Otis.
42:03Look at the showdown here in this matchup.
42:05I mean, take a look at this.
42:06Take a look at the size of these two individuals.
42:09Rusev hovering around 310 pounds.
42:12Otis around 330.
42:14I hope the ropes were reinforced for this match.
42:16I hope the steel beams were reinforced.
42:17I hope the entire ring was reinforced for this super heavyweight clash.
42:21That's 330 pounds for breakfast and lunch as they're getting ready to go.
42:25And we talk about the effort put forth by Maxine in Monday Night Raw this past Monday in New York City.
42:33You know, these guys really thrive off success.
42:36They thrive off each other's energy as well.
42:38And that's what's going to be interesting to me when it comes to Otis in this matchup.
42:42Will he be knocked off, so does he?
42:43Oh, and right to the throat.
42:45Couldn't even finish my sentence.
42:46Because there we see that destructive nature of Rusev.
42:50There's a reason why Rusev has been known as the super athlete.
42:53Do you think he's going to use his power?
42:55Do you think he's going to use his strength?
42:56No, he's got some agility in that playbook as well.
43:00Well, I'll ask you this, too.
43:01I mean, is there anyone in this match that actually has a true strength advantage?
43:06Well, you're seeing right now the answer to your question, Vic, not at all.
43:10Right now, Otis with the slight edge, but two men who are very equally matched in the power department.
43:17Well, Otis getting the better right now.
43:18And this would be a massive win for Otis if he's able to knock off a man like Rusev.
43:24Here in New York City.
43:25Think about Rusev, think about what's going on in his career.
43:28One of the competitors.
43:29Hold on.
43:30Hook of the leg into the cover and a near fall.
43:32One of the competitors in the last time is now a tournament.
43:35Obviously, a lot on his mind, but he's got to compartmentalize those thoughts.
43:38He's got to focus full-heartedly on Otis right now.
43:40What an emotional night it was.
43:41Inside Madison Square Garden.
43:44John Cena's final raw, but right now, Otis is down.
43:47Can he bounce back against Rusev?
43:49Turn here a little bit.
43:50Yeah.
43:51Oh, shit.
43:56Y'all talk too much.
44:01I got a bone to pick with Jade Cargill.
44:04With your big egos and your big expectations.
44:11How strong is Jade Cargill?
44:15Putting everybody on notice.
44:18At this table, I'm that bitch.
44:23WrestleMania, Vegas, it's anyone's game.
44:27Back on Main Event.
44:41This is exactly what we thought it would be, Byron.
44:43It's been nothing short of a slugfest.
44:45Yeah, it's hard for you.
44:46The Rusev will just to maintain.
44:47Oh, nice spinning kick from Rusev.
44:51Into the cover.
44:52Dropping Otis.
44:52And Otis getting that right tree trunk of an arm up.
44:55I was going to say, it's been hard for either one of these men to have a sustained advantage in this match.
44:59Because they still are equally matched.
45:02Byron, you talk about knowing Rusev for a long time.
45:05Just how tough is Rusev?
45:07He's one of the toughest men I've ever been on.
45:09I've actually trained in the gym with Rusev.
45:11One training session with him, Vic.
45:13I had two weeks of deep tissue massages, salt water baths, and perhaps a psychological therapy as well.
45:19Hey, listen to the WWE Universe trying to rally Otis here in New York City.
45:23Rusev having absolutely none of it.
45:27And you see the look, the intensity in the eyes.
45:30And now I feel bad for Otis.
45:33Because now that anger, that aggression coming out of Rusev.
45:37The thing about this, too, if you're Rusev, you could have taken the week off, right?
45:40You could have waited for your next tournament match, but Rusev wants to stay sharp for arguably one of the biggest opportunities in his career.
45:47Do you think that's going through the longevity of his career?
45:50Someone who has competed at WrestleMania saying, you know what?
45:54I need to stay sharp.
45:56I don't need to go home.
45:57I need to stay focused on the task at hand.
46:00And that's the difference of Rusev today compared to Rusev of five years ago.
46:04Understanding the work ethic in and out of the ring it takes to make it to the top.
46:07It is right now, wearing down Otis.
46:11And, oh, sharp kick to the spine.
46:15And it's not often you see Otis in this much pain.
46:19And Tozawa's got to do a lot on the outside to rally his tag team partner.
46:22Yeah, yeah, good luck, Tozawa.
46:23I don't care what you say, how you try to encourage Otis right now.
46:27Otis is in some serious trouble right now.
46:29And at the mercy of Rusev.
46:31That would have been the universe really not showing any sort of love and support to Rusev.
46:39But Rusev right now, he doesn't care.
46:41He doesn't care about the universe.
46:42He doesn't care what people have to say.
46:44Rusev is in his own world right now, Vic.
46:47The only voice he wants to hear is his own.
46:48But wait a minute.
46:49He just got distracted by Tozawa on the far side.
46:52Trying to rev up, ramp up those here in New York City.
46:56I don't think he got distracted.
46:57I think he got motivated.
46:58Think he got madder just by that, Byron?
47:00Exactly.
47:01Charging right in.
47:02And now Otis.
47:04This might be rally time.
47:06Oh, well, that's unusual.
47:10And Otis isn't for a big man.
47:11Otis desperately needed something.
47:14Because Rusev was completely controlling this match.
47:17There's a valuable opening, a critical opening for Otis.
47:19But what can he do with it now?
47:22Think about the lower back.
47:24How much strength can Otis have after everything that's gone down in this matchup?
47:29But Otis right now picking up steam like a runner-rate train.
47:34Bulldozing his way through the body of Rusev.
47:37Looking at the deep end of the train of Rusev now.
47:39If he's able to defeat him.
47:41Target acquired.
47:46And Otis right.
47:49Oh, here we go.
47:53Are we going to see it, Vic?
47:55Are we going to feel it?
47:56What are we going to feel, Byron?
47:59I'm going to feel the vibration.
48:01If I'm not.
48:03Now I'm upset.
48:04Get back!
48:05Get back right now!
48:07Get back right now!
48:08I think Tozawa immediately regretting that decision.
48:11But there comes big Otis on the outside.
48:13And this is starting to break down at this juncture of the matchup.
48:17I guess the verbal distraction worked out for Otis that time, courtesy of Tozawa.
48:22Otis getting right back in.
48:23And Otis now.
48:24You talked about being angry earlier.
48:26Otis is going to be extra fired up.
48:28Extra motivated.
48:29Because Rusev just took out Tozawa.
48:31Stand by.
48:32Second time's a turn.
48:34It is a war-gabard.
48:36It is the caterpillar!
48:38Splat!
48:39Cover!
48:40Count!
48:40A kick out from Rusev.
48:46I'm not going to lie.
48:47Whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa.
48:48We don't see Otis leave his feet.
48:49I like it.
48:50I like it.
48:51Look at Rusev.
48:52Rusev.
48:53Oh, right to the eyes.
48:54Otis is not going to like this.
48:57Break of the face.
48:59One-arm power bombing and bam.
49:01The Matska kick under the jaw.
49:05Rusev victorious.
49:07Here is your winner, Rusev!
49:13Otis had everything, Byron.
49:16Everything going for him.
49:17It got a little dicey there for Rusev in the end.
49:20But the intensity we talked about that this man maintains throughout the duration of a match
49:26paid off once again.
49:28Here he's talking about all the vibrations you want.
49:31And in this moment, Otis almost, almost had him.
49:35But this was the turning point.
49:37Rake of the face.
49:38Official didn't see it.
49:39Rusev with a big power bomb.
49:41One-arm power bomb almost.
49:43And then bam!
49:43That Matska kick putting an end to Otis' night here on Main Events.
49:50In many ways, Rusev got what he wanted.
49:52He wanted to be pushed.
49:53He wanted to be sharpened.
49:55As he continues to compete in the last time it's now tournament.
49:59And there is the message.
50:00Is that the man that will face John Cena at Saturday night's Main Event?
50:04Here tonight, Rusev reigns supreme.
50:11The Bulgarian brute Rusev proved to be the bigger, stronger, and more dominant force on that night.
50:17And with that heavyweight showdown in the books, that's going to do it for us.
50:21I hope you enjoyed this trip down memory lane as we celebrated some of the most standout moments that made 2025 such a remarkable year on Main Event.
50:30Thanks so much for watching.
50:31I'm Megan Morant wishing you all a happy, healthy, and safe 2026.
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