- 3 days ago
WWE Smackdown January 16th 2026 Full Show - Part-2
Kindly follow my Channel so as you could watch weekly shows timely. Thanks!!!
Kindly follow my Channel so as you could watch weekly shows timely. Thanks!!!
Category
😹
FunTranscript
00:00:00Pods on that London IUC, take us back to what happened just moments ago with Jacob Fatu and Cody Rhodes.
00:00:08Cody, you got something to say about me?
00:00:13You have something to say to me?
00:00:17Well, check this out.
00:00:18Bring your punk ass out here right now.
00:00:22Ask and you shall receive Jacob Fatu, the American Nightmare.
00:00:27Already in a nasty mood after losing his undisputed WWE Championship, Cody Rhodes would make a beeline for the ring and chaos would follow.
00:00:42The American Nightmare stepping up to the Samoan Werewolf and fists were a-flyin' tonight in London.
00:00:50Eventually, a swarm of security would hit the ring and do their best to separate Fatu and Rhodes.
00:01:03But the damage has been done, and Nick Aldis has reached this decision, Joe.
00:01:08This is happening, Corey.
00:01:10This is happening next week on Saturday Night's Main Event from Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
00:01:15Cody Rhodes, Jacob Fatu.
00:01:18That'll be streaming next Saturday Night.
00:01:20We're eight days away.
00:01:24Of course, we are closing in on that number one contender's fatal four-way that night in Montreal.
00:01:31And we're filling out the floor.
00:01:32And that is what we will do again right here, right now.
00:01:37The following is an undisputed WWE Championship.
00:02:06Number one contender's qualified match.
00:02:10Introducing first, accompanied by MFP, from Las Vegas, Nevada, playing in at 250 pounds, Joe Sakoa!
00:02:22Corey, he's got the lantern in hand.
00:02:25It's like his conquering bag of gold, his pelt and antlers of the Wyatt Six and Uncle Howdy.
00:02:30Joe, I understand and appreciate mind games in this business as well as anyone, but I feel dirty watching this.
00:02:38This feels blasphemous, seeing Solo Sakoa with the sacred lantern, representative of the legacy of none other than Bray Wyatt.
00:02:46A family heirloom, if you could call it that.
00:02:50And seeing it in the possession of Solo and the MFTs feels wrong on so many levels.
00:02:56With that said, that illustrates the mindset, the mentality of Solo Sakoa heading into this number one contender qualifier tonight.
00:03:05Solo wants greatness for his family again.
00:03:08Solo knows what it takes.
00:03:09As he learned under the great tree of Roman Reigns.
00:03:13Solo wants power for the MFT.
00:03:16Becoming undisputed WWE Champion would absolutely do that.
00:03:21I just can't.
00:03:21This is...
00:03:22He's sitting there.
00:03:23It's too far.
00:03:23After that eight-man tag team match over the Wyatt Six, and then he took the cherished family lantern.
00:03:30He's sitting there.
00:04:00And his opponent, from New York City, weighing in at 249 pounds, Damian Priest!
00:04:15Corey, you and Cole, a couple weeks ago, were up at Buffalo, and Priest defeated Aleister Black in that ambulance match.
00:04:23Now, he's admitted.
00:04:24He is hurting after that.
00:04:26He is hurting after that match.
00:04:28And this doesn't get any easier when you're in against Solo and the MFTs who are sitting around ringside.
00:04:33Well, if you want to be at the top of the card in WWE, there is no rest for the weary.
00:04:38Fortunately, Damian Priest seems to have dispatched Aleister Black into his rearview mirror for the time being.
00:04:45But what this is about is a fresh start for Priest.
00:04:47This is a man who won the World Heavyweight Championship by cashing in money in the bank at WrestleMania.
00:04:54It doesn't get much bigger than that.
00:04:56But since then, Priest has become obsessed with recapturing that feeling, that rush, that high,
00:05:01that you can only achieve at the very pinnacle of this business.
00:05:06It could all begin a long journey back up the mountain tonight for Damian Priest.
00:05:13You mentioned that signature Mona at WrestleMania, which in the span of his career isn't that long ago.
00:05:20But then you think of the journey that's been taken since, as you see Solo should go in the MFTs.
00:05:25And everything he's had to incur, all the feud, all the damage, all the damage he's put forth, and now here we are.
00:05:35Rick Williams has advanced to the number one contender of Fatal 4-Way.
00:05:39Randy Orton has advanced to Saturday Night's main event.
00:05:43And now Damian Priest and Solo Sokoa to decide the third spot.
00:05:52Got him! All done!
00:05:54I got it there!
00:05:55Think about this, Joe.
00:05:58A few years ago, when the world's first laid eyes on Solo Sokoa, he was the enforcer of the bloodline.
00:06:04He sat at the right hand of Roman Reigns.
00:06:08Solo Sokoa was tabbed for greatness back then.
00:06:10They used to refer to him as the Tribal Heir.
00:06:13Solo takes that anointment very seriously and intends to live up to those expectations.
00:06:17Of course, from one bloodline to now his family tree that surrounds our desk right now,
00:06:25By the way, hard to broadcast when you got Tala Tonga and Tonga Loa and JC Mateo making a human wall just a few feet in front of us.
00:06:36Mammoths of human beings out here.
00:06:38Oh, what a super kick by Priest.
00:06:41Solo spilled to the outside.
00:06:43Yeah, right onto our announce desk.
00:06:45He tries to gather himself here.
00:06:49Oh, Priest, what are you thinking?
00:06:51Don't do this!
00:06:52Yeah.
00:06:53Remember that human wall I just mentioned?
00:06:55He just realized it exists.
00:06:56Big Tala Tonga right in the face of Damian Priest.
00:07:06Priest stands about 6'7".
00:07:07There aren't too many superstars on the roster he has to look up to.
00:07:11Tala Tonga is an exception for sure.
00:07:15Oh!
00:07:16Tala Tonga!
00:07:17Tala Tonga!
00:07:18With shades on, up and off the apron to floor Damian Priest.
00:07:23Oh my goodness!
00:07:24You got what happened, baby!
00:07:38The numbers game turning the tides in this matchup in favor of the MFT.
00:07:45Led by Solo Sokoa, who would love to join the field of Randy Orton and Trick Williams as those
00:07:53who have qualified for the number one contender's Fatal 4-Way.
00:07:58The winner becoming number one contender for the undisputed WWE Championship,
00:08:03now held by Drew McIntyre.
00:08:05And as confident as Damian Priest has become recently, Joe, the fact that Priest is out here
00:08:18facing Solo and the MFTs without backup is a questionable decision at best.
00:08:23Understandably, oh!
00:08:25Priest is running low on allies.
00:08:28Aside from Rhea Ripley, no one seems to have Damian Priest back.
00:08:32And that does not bode well when you're dealing with Solo and these nasty Tongans.
00:08:38He just drove his head.
00:08:39Uh-oh!
00:08:39Oh!
00:08:40Boom!
00:08:41He just annihilates our announce desk as he drives Solo Sokoa across it.
00:08:49This is where the streets of New York will serve Damian Priest well.
00:08:54Priest not afraid to make a fight ugly.
00:08:57Not afraid to take a shortcut.
00:08:58He may need more than one in this one when you're dealing with somebody as lethal as Sokoa.
00:09:04Big lariat?
00:09:05No.
00:09:05Oh, he was looking for that massive rebound.
00:09:07Oh!
00:09:08Samoan drop!
00:09:10That pop-up!
00:09:11And two advances solo, but Priest quick to kick out.
00:09:14Come on!
00:09:15Come on!
00:09:15Come on!
00:09:16Come on!
00:09:17Come on!
00:09:19Come on!
00:09:21Come on!
00:09:23Come on!
00:09:24Come on!
00:09:25Come on!
00:09:26Come on!
00:09:27Come on!
00:09:27Come on!
00:09:28Come on!
00:09:28Come on!
00:09:29Come on!
00:09:30Come on!
00:09:31Come on!
00:09:32Come on!
00:09:33Come on!
00:09:34Come on!
00:09:35Come on!
00:09:36Come on!
00:09:37Come on!
00:09:38Come on!
00:09:39Come on!
00:09:40Solo now basking in the disdain of this London crowd as he inches toward the fatal four-way!
00:09:49Running hip attack!
00:09:51Backing it up!
00:09:53High-impact style in the corner!
00:09:56Next week in Montreal, somebody's gonna win a number one contender's fatal four-way and
00:10:06fight for the undisputed championship!
00:10:08We know two of the names who are in it!
00:10:10Randy Orton and Trickboy!
00:10:11Oh!
00:10:12Oh!
00:10:13Now, with this running hip attack, Solo Sokoa is trying to get in if he can qualify and defeat
00:10:19Damian Priest here!
00:10:21You can just see the confidence of Solo Sokoa growing as this match progresses during the break!
00:10:28Look at this display of power!
00:10:30Launching Damian Priest into the canvas and Solo looking for it once again!
00:10:36Going for the running hip attack!
00:10:38Oh!
00:10:39Wow!
00:10:40Spinning heel kick!
00:10:41And you see the MFTs!
00:10:42I mean, even JC Mateo's cringing after that as Talatanga looks on!
00:10:46Almost shocking degree of speed from Damian Priest able to recover and deliver the kick!
00:10:54But what can Priest do now?
00:10:56With the opportunity he created for himself!
00:10:59Priest out here in this qualifying match for that number one contender fatal four-way as the MFTs surround the ring!
00:11:05JC Mateo holding onto that Wyatt Six lantern that was taken from Uncle Howdy a week ago!
00:11:11And now, Damian Priest, as often is the case, up on his feet, ready to give everything!
00:11:19Here they go!
00:11:21Testing each other!
00:11:22Towing the line!
00:11:23Center of the ring!
00:11:25Giannis Masmacho!
00:11:27Look at these right hands!
00:11:29And a left from Priest!
00:11:31This was the matchup on paper you just knew tonight would turn into something like this!
00:11:38Priest ringing the bell of Solo!
00:11:42Now putting those educated feet to work!
00:11:45One of the best strikers in the game with all the-
00:11:48Oh man, oh man was he meant!
00:11:50Back and forth they go!
00:11:53Two big men giving everything!
00:11:55The super kick from Solo!
00:11:57Spinning kick from Priest!
00:12:00And another!
00:12:01Solo did his best to block the impact!
00:12:07Priest now drops Solo with another lariat!
00:12:10And Damian Priest can sense it!
00:12:13Can he advance?
00:12:16Stage dive in the corner!
00:12:20And again-
00:12:21Best time able to get out the back door!
00:12:23And Priest now takes control!
00:12:26Looking to make it to Montreal!
00:12:28Hey!
00:12:29Hey!
00:12:30Let's go solo!
00:12:31Come on girl!
00:12:32Come on girl!
00:12:33Come on girl!
00:12:34Trying to shout encouragement to the leader of MFT Solo Sokoa!
00:12:37Come on!
00:12:38Come on!
00:12:39Come on!
00:12:40You got this!
00:12:41He's still to come tonight!
00:12:42Jordan Grace and Chelsea Green!
00:12:43Of course we will have our final qualifying match!
00:12:46Sami Zayn and Ilya Dragunov in a rematch!
00:12:49Oh no!
00:12:50Ilya Dragunov in a rematch!
00:12:51Would you look at this!
00:12:52The MFTs as you knew they likely would!
00:12:55Playing a role!
00:12:56Leave it to Dan Engler to miss the 7 footer!
00:12:59Hey!
00:13:00I'm taking over that!
00:13:01I knew it!
00:13:02How do you miss that?
00:13:03No!
00:13:04Hey!
00:13:05He's out of here!
00:13:06What?
00:13:07The 7 foot Tama Tonga is gone from this qualifying match!
00:13:11Yeah!
00:13:12But the damage has already been done Joe!
00:13:14Zolo Sokoa!
00:13:16He's getting him up there!
00:13:19Could this be an avalanche?
00:13:21No!
00:13:22Priest!
00:13:23Able to counter!
00:13:24Setting up the razor's edge!
00:13:27Oh my!
00:13:29What a thud!
00:13:33And Zolo survives!
00:13:36That right shoulder gets up at 2 and change!
00:13:39Incredible power required to deliver a maneuver like Priest just did to a man the size of Solo!
00:13:52But it looks like Sokoa might be scheduled for a trip south of heaven!
00:13:57Tama Tonga's up on the apron!
00:13:59Tama Tonga who already played a role now Tonga Lowe is up on the apron!
00:14:03Priest looks to dismiss him!
00:14:05Look out Priest!
00:14:06Samoan Spike!
00:14:07He gets out of the way!
00:14:08But that spinning solo slam!
00:14:13The big impact!
00:14:15And Sokoa now from the top!
00:14:18Right on the target!
00:14:20To advance!
00:14:21Oh!
00:14:22That's great from Priest!
00:14:23What part!
00:14:24What will!
00:14:25Take him down!
00:14:26You kick him down!
00:14:27Come on!
00:14:28You kick him down!
00:14:29You can't count!
00:14:30Three reps!
00:14:31Come on!
00:14:32Come on!
00:14:33What was that Damien Priest's last...
00:14:35But was that Damian Priest's left?
00:14:39Let's go.
00:15:09And continues.
00:15:11Gacy pounding away.
00:15:13Loomis pounding away.
00:15:14Nicky Cross is running everywhere.
00:15:17And Uncle Howdy has got J.C. Matteo right where he wants him.
00:15:22The Wyatt Six are here and they want their Lantern back.
00:15:27A week ago was the eight-man tag team that ended with Solo Sokoa taking the cherished...
00:15:35Oh, no, no, no, no!
00:15:37Sokoa from behind just before how he could get his hands on the lantern and that spiritual beacon of the white six is back
00:15:45Secured by solo sokoa in the midst of this qualifying match
00:16:07And it cost a quarry
00:16:10Consider it assist from up above it was solo who declared he would be watching
00:16:17perhaps he was
00:16:19And tonight that was to the benefit of Damian grace there
00:16:24You see moments before howdy recaptured the lantern solo all smiles to spoil the celebration
00:16:30but solo took his eyes off the damn dangerous man and Damian priest with a one-way ticket
00:16:43And priest now
00:16:45Joins the madness that will be the fatal four-way undisputed WWE championship
00:16:52Number one contenders match at Saturday night's main event. There's uncle howdy
00:16:57As he is back on his feet and again his cherished prized possession the way it showed me
00:17:11As howdy has secure the Wyatt lantern
00:17:16Back is it Tomatoga
00:17:27And the mfts
00:17:41And solo sokoa
00:17:44With uncle howdy's family lantern
00:17:48Back in our hands, but it was Damian priest who advanced qualifies for Montreal
00:17:57I'll make it be here
00:18:02Sammy
00:18:03Sammy
00:18:04Sammy
00:18:05Sammy
00:18:09Heard what you had to say last week
00:18:11What was it?
00:18:12You hope
00:18:13That I win
00:18:14But you think Cody's gonna win?
00:18:17It's lucky you're not a betting man or you would have lost
00:18:20As usual
00:18:21You know what drew I meant what I said actually I didn't want you to win
00:18:27A part of me wanted you to win and a part of me is really happy that you did because here's what's gonna happen next
00:18:32I'm about to go out there and I'm about to go to war with Ilya Dragunov
00:18:36And I'm gonna win
00:18:37And next week at Saturday night's main event in my hometown in Montreal
00:18:42Number one contenders match I am going to win and then at the Royal Rumble
00:18:47You and me
00:18:49We're gonna see each other again
00:18:51That's really inspiring Sammy but here's the truth
00:18:55I've beaten you eleven times you've beaten me zero
00:19:01If you happen to make it to the Royal Rumble absolutely nothing is gonna change
00:19:08We'll see
00:19:11We'll see
00:19:18Remember
00:19:20Still to come tonight
00:19:22Our final qualifying match
00:19:25Undisputed WWE Championship number one contenders qualifying match for that fatal four wave
00:19:32And it's gonna be a great one
00:19:34Sammy Zane and Ilya Dragunov
00:19:35Take it off
00:19:37And it's the new powerhouse on SmackDown roster
00:19:41Jordan Grace
00:19:43As she takes on Chelsea Green right here in London
00:19:47That is coming your way
00:19:48For my man
00:19:49Mentioned one that didn't even believe I'm gonna win
00:19:51I'm gonna win
00:19:52I'm gonna win
00:19:54Cause I'm the greatest
00:19:55Ain't no hatin'
00:19:56I'm the best
00:19:58You want your shot
00:19:59Well I guess you wait till next year
00:20:01I'm at the top
00:20:02Get respect
00:20:03While I get big
00:20:04Who got a problem, huh?
00:20:05What?
00:20:06Tell them to step ahead
00:20:08Step ahead
00:20:10Cause I'm the greatest
00:20:11Don't argue with nothing debating
00:20:13Hear my face and I'm all getting to go
00:20:15The following is the United States Championship Open Challenge
00:20:19Introducing first
00:20:21From Blasville, Massachusetts
00:20:23Playing in at 210 pounds
00:20:26He is the United States Champion
00:20:30Garmelo Hayes
00:20:34Garmelo Hayes carrying on the Open Challenge
00:20:37For this United States Championship
00:20:40The question is
00:20:41Who's gonna be walking out here
00:20:42Here at Wembley Arena in London?
00:20:44We're gonna find out
00:20:45Who faces Neville now
00:20:49Down here in London
00:20:50Which is home to seven different
00:20:51Premier League clubs
00:20:52Speaking of Premier
00:20:53How about some Premier programming?
00:20:55WWE Unreal
00:20:57Season 2 is coming back to Netflix
00:20:59It premieres this Tuesday, January 20th
00:21:02Only on Netflix
00:21:03Here's a sneak peek
00:21:04Seth Rollins
00:21:05Seth freaking Rollins
00:21:06A.k.a.
00:21:07My hot husband
00:21:09No, that was terrible
00:21:11Oh my god, Seth going up top
00:21:13I like where this is headed
00:21:14Rollins at the top of the ring post
00:21:15Lights rock for Becky
00:21:16Splash for Rollins
00:21:17You know, I love having her on the road with me
00:21:18It's a great, great thing to be able to share special moments together
00:21:21Understand each other, be there for each other
00:21:34I remember the first time I found out that Becky and Seth were an item
00:21:39And I had no idea
00:21:41And it was the last time we were at MetLife Stadium for WrestleMania
00:21:46And then Becky was about to go on and I was behind Gorilla
00:21:51And all of a sudden I see them making out
00:21:56Love you
00:21:57Love you
00:21:58I think I even joke like, God, get a room
00:22:10Boy, T.S. Hayes, Sartorio Splendor never disappoints
00:22:13Well, there's Carmelo Hayes
00:22:15And Corey, I think we've seen the best of him in recent months
00:22:18Earning respect of everybody with that year-ending battle with Ilya Dragunov
00:22:21The U.S. title on hand
00:22:23And now week after week with this Open Challenge
00:22:25This is a young man that came in WWE with very high expectations for himself
00:22:28And he's delivering week after week
00:22:31You know, who's it gonna be this week?
00:22:33Oh, you love it already
00:22:40I sure do
00:22:56The TNA X Division champ from Bradford, England
00:23:00Weigh in at 198 pounds
00:23:10He is the TNA X Division champion
00:23:15Leon Slater
00:23:19Carmelo Hayes hopped on social media and said
00:23:21I want the best Britain has to offer
00:23:25I think this may be it
00:23:27Leon Slater, the youngest X Division champion in TNA history
00:23:31Just for the record, Joe
00:23:32That title he's wearing around his neck
00:23:34The first ever X Division champion
00:23:36The phenomenal AJ Styles
00:23:39If that gives you any sort of indication
00:23:41To what this young man is capable of
00:23:44The sky isn't even the limit for Leon Slater
00:23:47The dude is from outer space with his abilities
00:23:5021 years old
00:23:53England's very own
00:23:56Here at Wembley Arena in London
00:23:59You mentioned AJ Styles and the connection there
00:24:03Well, Slater has had a few big moments on WWE programming recently
00:24:08We'll go back to December 13th
00:24:11John Cena's last time is now final night
00:24:13He was paired with Javon Evans
00:24:15They dropped a thriller to AJ Styles and Dragon Lee
00:24:18You can't bet against Leon Slater in his home environment
00:24:25Yes, he's from Bradford
00:24:26But this is England
00:24:27They are proud of their athletes
00:24:28They are proud of their competitors
00:24:29Leon Slater, to your point, Joe
00:24:31Coming off several great moments here in WWE
00:24:34Not to mention becoming a household name in TNA
00:24:37Tonight, Carmelo Hayes could be ripe for the picking
00:24:41Momentum means a lot in this business
00:24:43Hayes certainly has some
00:24:44But I don't know if anyone has as much as Leon Slater
00:24:48Listen, we had December 13th
00:24:50On January 6th on NXT's New Year's Evil
00:24:52He was up against Obafemi
00:24:54Correct
00:24:55And Obafemi, of course, retaining the NXT Championship on that night
00:24:59And now here is the United States Championship Open Challenge
00:25:04And it is Leon Slater
00:25:06Who takes on the challenge
00:25:08Boy, can he go
00:25:09Both of these guys
00:25:10Look at this
00:25:11Bridging
00:25:12And pinning combination
00:25:13And the counter
00:25:14Well, listen, we would be remiss if we didn't talk about what Carmelo Hayes has been up to recently
00:25:19Yes, United States Champion
00:25:20But Hayes has finally
00:25:22Seemed to have found his groove here in WWE
00:25:25I caught up with Carmelo earlier today
00:25:27He said, ironically, this journey has humbled me to a degree
00:25:30I've learned to appreciate the competition
00:25:33And what it takes to remain champion in WWE
00:25:36Carmelo says he's trying his best to employ a Mamba mentality
00:25:40A day one mentality each and every night out
00:25:43Oh my God!
00:25:44I mean, that thing is echoing throughout this historic arena
00:25:50We're here at Wembley Arena, by the way
00:25:521948
00:25:53This was an Olympic venue
00:25:55They had boxing and swimming here
00:25:57We have an Olympic swimming pool underneath us
00:25:59You talked to me earlier today about a legendary boxer making history in this very arena
00:26:07Marvelous Marvin Hagler
00:26:08This is where Marvelous Marvin Hagler became the middleweight champion of the world
00:26:12A historic and scary moment in boxing history
00:26:14Defeating Alan Minter
00:26:15Well, what's to say Leon Slater can't shock the world once again tonight on SmackDown
00:26:19We know he's got the physical tools to do so
00:26:21Just ask AJ Styles and Dragon Lee who competed at Saturday night's main event
00:26:26Against Leon Slater and Javon Evans
00:26:29That was a very special night for Slater in D.C.
00:26:33Look at this athleticism!
00:26:35I mean, Graves! Are you kidding me?
00:26:38I kid you not, Joe Tess
00:26:40Leon Slater came to play tonight
00:26:43Is the sort of athleticism that has won him fans around the globe
00:26:50And the young Brit making the climb to the top where he is right at home
00:26:54Just explosive!
00:26:56How high with that crossbody!
00:26:59So close to taking the United States Championship
00:27:05With all this offensive firepower
00:27:08We'll be right back!
00:27:11We'll be right back!
00:27:13We'll be right back!
00:27:15We'll be right back!
00:27:16We'll be right back!
00:27:24We'll be right back!
00:27:25We'll be right back!
00:27:26We'll be right back!
00:27:27We'll be right back!
00:27:28Joe Tessitore and Corey Graves with you on Friday Night SmackDown
00:27:31Leon Slater and Carmelo Hayes
00:27:33Boy, I mean, you were just talking about it in terms of the agility
00:27:37and the dynamic style those three minutes of that offensive rhythm that slater put together well
00:27:43there's an old saying in this game you need to maximize your minutes you want the whole world
00:27:47to know your name you want the wwe fans to remember you for years to come leon slater just put on a
00:27:53master class in three minutes imagine what slater's career would look like should he be able to become
00:28:00united states champion tonight a double champion in two different companies it's a very rare feat
00:28:05but if anyone could pull it off it could be leon slater and just to go back to a conversation you
00:28:10and i were having earlier mentioned he's 21 years old the parallels where he is right now compared to
00:28:16where carmelo hayes was just a few years ago and this could eventually boil down to experience
00:28:21carmelo hayes does have an experience advantage for no other reason than his his tenure here in wwe
00:28:26being a champion in wwe back to his days in nxt there's a lot of intangibles to factor in maybe
00:28:33leon slater has though we won't know until he truly tests himself against the best right now carmelo
00:28:38hayes but you can hear by the response from the live crowd the respect and admiration they've
00:28:47already developed for leon slater to your point at only 21 years of age
00:28:51great drop kick from hayes yeah but joe look at the way carmelo yeah he's favoring his left knee
00:29:02i think it might have been the leapfrog might have tweaked it slightly you know we saw that
00:29:08also against shinsuke nakamura and it happens joe and nothing can throw you off of your game plan
00:29:15like a slight injury if you feel something severe you know you've got to call an audible you know
00:29:20the rest of your game plan you got to throw out the window but you have a slight tweak it may not
00:29:24affect your plan or it could lead to disastrous consequences it's only going to tell as the match
00:29:29progresses cory that's one of the things about the open challenge is each and every week you have
00:29:34somebody you don't scout your opponent and yet they're coming out and giving their best and you
00:29:38got time and again with the frequency of title cover here for the championship
00:29:43to that point carmelo hayes is of the same mindset that ilia dragunov was that sammy zane was that all
00:29:50the way back to john cena was as the united states champion iron sharpens iron you throw your best
00:29:56against the best who are willing to step up and lucky for us magic tends to happen
00:30:01springboarding off the ropes he's looking for that springboard clothesline pack and forth they go oh my goodness oh my goodness springboard spanish fly
00:30:21but at what cost
00:30:25jaws are dropped here and that this is awesome chance have begun here in london the springboard spanish fly cory
00:30:42inverted moments ago leon slater again showing the world why he is the talk of this business right now
00:30:51and slater would love to head home tonight with the united states title around his waist
00:30:57and so much credit carmelo hayes for keeping up with this open challenge of the united states championship
00:31:04this is third defense of the title we saw him against johnny gargano we saw him
00:31:09in a brutal match against shinsuke nakamura just a week ago where his leg was damaged perhaps some lingering effects there
00:31:16and now here against leon slater in london and slater's from bradford england so he got a nice reception
00:31:22just 21 years old is slater the tna x division champion who is impressed on wwe programming and spot
00:31:31oh what a kick certainly rocked the jaw the champion mellow out of the way just in time
00:31:38up and around we go how about carmelo hayes when he gets the engine revving here he goes
00:31:46to retain good hate carmelo hayes can't get frustrated mellow knows that each and every night
00:31:57he is going to step in the ring with the best the business has to offer and just because that move
00:32:02didn't end the job doesn't mean you can get frustrated because when you get frustrated you
00:32:08make mistakes and the way leon slater has looked to this point that's not something hayes can afford
00:32:12tonight crowd appreciating what they're seeing and stylistically it's as entertaining as anything
00:32:20you will see a reminder still to come the qualifying match for that fatal four-way as the half crap
00:32:27is put in hey credit to slater who scouted the first 48 inside
00:32:30slater able to escape
00:32:34oh man wow slater so explosive a dynamic to win it and i i love the urgency we're seeing out of leon
00:32:44slater to this point scrambling for a cover deep hook at the leg leon slater is going for growth
00:32:50tonight off of that side kick that took down hayes nice deep cover but not enough to crown a new
00:32:57champion god take advantage of your opportunities and slater you know what he can do when he goes up
00:33:02to the ropes we've seen it time and again from that swanton 450 to everything else he can put forth and
00:33:09now carmelo hayes is smart to roll to the outside and be on the apron but slater looks to meet him
00:33:15there oh massive jump from hayes nearly caving in that sternum oh and look at slater powering up
00:33:25beautiful beautiful as carmelo hayes drapes down and now is in that target zone when it comes to
00:33:36leon slater gravity is less a law than it is a suggestion
00:33:39mellow
00:33:41wait
00:33:43retain right here
00:33:44back and forth they go with the seesaw
00:33:46both men exerting a great deal of core strength and energy
00:33:56somehow hayes is surviving these that's what it's all about sometimes that's all you can do when
00:34:07you're a defending champion play defense eat all the offense that you can as long as you don't get
00:34:14pinned or submit did you see him dealing with the leg as he went to rev it up that did you see that
00:34:20you could sense it in advance and that left leg that shinsky nakamura started doing damage on
00:34:26leon slater
00:34:27oh my
00:34:30up and over the post
00:34:33leon slater showcasing everything he is here on smackdown
00:34:40the challenger now perched up top once again
00:34:47slater
00:34:49he was looking for that 450 swanton but instead hayes gets out of the way
00:34:56and how about a first 48 with something extra on it
00:35:01they're still going at it
00:35:04don't close the case just yet
00:35:07the knee continuing to be a factor for carmelo hayes
00:35:11who just landed his bread and butter that first 48
00:35:14can end the game
00:35:16but look at this
00:35:17this is just mind-blowing
00:35:19this is otherworldly athleticism
00:35:21slater and hayes
00:35:25stylistically are making magic
00:35:28here at wembley
00:35:30the styles make fights
00:35:32slater and hayes
00:35:34certainly not disappointing tonight
00:35:36there's that urgency
00:35:38yes right
00:35:38that desperation
00:35:39leon may have gotten a little overzealous
00:35:41you saw mellow put the brakes on for the moment
00:35:44oh no
00:35:46high risk
00:35:47high reward
00:35:49you got to go for it though
00:35:50you get these rare opportunities cory
00:35:52the gold is on the line
00:35:54from the top rope
00:35:56leon slater
00:35:57looking to dethrone carmelo hayes
00:35:59will this do it
00:36:01united states championship
00:36:03he took the challenge
00:36:05can he deliver on it right now
00:36:08leon slater
00:36:09oh
00:36:09cutter by hayes
00:36:12massive cutter by carmelo hayes
00:36:15and he got him
00:36:18here is your winner
00:36:22and still united states champion
00:36:26carmelo hayes
00:36:29i'm gonna rise to my feet my man
00:36:31and give them a little credit here
00:36:33you and me both
00:36:34the same maneuver
00:36:36carmelo hayes used to great effect
00:36:38the night he dethroned ilia dragganoff
00:36:41this time
00:36:42pays even bigger dividends
00:36:44kudos to leon slater
00:36:46who absolutely proved to the world
00:36:49once again
00:36:50he belongs
00:36:51on the biggest stages in the world
00:36:54what a battle
00:36:56tonight in london
00:36:57he's 21
00:36:59years old
00:37:00leon slater
00:37:02gives credit to carmelo hayes
00:37:04for taking on all these challenges
00:37:06dr buda
00:37:14you're looking at that us title
00:37:18like it still belongs to you
00:37:21you had your chance
00:37:24and you blew it
00:37:28once the mfts take those tag team titles
00:37:33that us championship
00:37:35it's mine
00:37:37because you
00:37:40and i go way back
00:37:42this is your one
00:37:45and only warning
00:37:47stay out of my way
00:37:52you and i go way back to carmelo hayes
00:37:53you and i go way back to carmelo hayes
00:37:55you and i meet
00:37:59try and talk to carmelo hayes
00:38:00you can't do it
00:38:00look fucking
00:38:02i think
00:38:03all right
00:38:04you out of Japan
00:38:04and all right
00:38:05if you need out of Japan
00:38:06After that, I'll tell you what I'm going to do with the real enemy.
00:38:12I'll tell you what I'm going to do.
00:38:16I'll tell you what I'm going to do with my family.
00:38:36I'm trying to save you from a beating, so why don't you hand over the mask? Now.
00:38:40I don't have your mask.
00:38:42Oh, grow up, dude. Grow up.
00:38:44We're going to go do married stuff. I'll see you later, man.
00:38:48Wait, what's happening?
00:38:55Surprise!
00:38:57Oh, another surprise is that I went to go talk to Nick Aldis,
00:39:00and me and you will be going one-on-one next week.
00:39:03So, after I beat some respect into you, my amigo over here is going to do the same thing
00:39:07and take that mask back.
00:39:09So, enjoy it whilst you still can, pal.
00:39:16Come on.
00:39:21I hate those two.
00:39:24Pledge your allegiance.
00:39:26That's my favorite time of the week, Joe!
00:39:28Why would it be? I don't get it.
00:39:30You and Barrett, I don't get it.
00:39:33Pesitore is out here casually committing more treason on a Friday night.
00:39:36Pesitore, stop it.
00:39:42The following clock has been scheduled for one call.
00:39:45Introducing first, accompanied by Albafire,
00:39:48from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada,
00:39:51he has won half of the AAA Big Tag Team Champion, Chelsea Green!
00:40:00Pesitore, you know I'm not alone.
00:40:02Here in London, they named an entire football club after this woman.
00:40:06Chelsea! Chelsea FC!
00:40:08Yeah! Stop it!
00:40:09Somebody play God Save the King or something.
00:40:12Please, get rid of this.
00:40:18...Center, South Hall.
00:40:19It is amazing.
00:40:20All the interaction with the superstars, the live podcast.
00:40:23Meet all your favorites, round table discussions.
00:40:26The largest WWE Superstore in WrestleMania history.
00:40:30Tickets are on sale now at www.world.com.
00:40:33B
00:40:55Tickets
00:40:57Chelsea Crane, his family here in the UK.
00:41:24So some friends and family here, her first match in London, a special moment for Green and her extended family.
00:41:34Well, there's the champ, Jade Cargill, been very direct in telling the world who rules this blue brand.
00:41:40And by...
00:41:52I'd just like to announce that if I don't pledge allegiance to Chelsea for the remainder of the night,
00:42:04it's simply a matter of self-preservation.
00:42:06Jade's like right there.
00:42:07Oh, she's...
00:42:08I know.
00:42:08I want to get you.
00:42:08I hear you.
00:42:09Smart.
00:42:10Very smart.
00:42:10And her opponent, from Austin, Texas, Jordan Grace!
00:42:29Second match on SmackDown for the dynamic free agent signing to start the new year.
00:42:35Jordan Grace, last week she toppled Alba Fire, who of course is by the side of Chelsea Green.
00:42:41Chelsea Green, who I did notice walked in cherishing that AAA Mixed Tag Team Championship strap.
00:42:48Corey, you're the supreme voice of all things.
00:42:51AAA, she has that with Ethan Page.
00:42:55Of course, tomorrow, Lucha Libre AAA will be on YouTube 9 p.m.
00:42:59Mega Championship match, number one contenders match, A Grande Americano against Vakingo.
00:43:04Who will be the next to challenge Dirty Dom?
00:43:07It's our weekly world premiere, a night that will be remembered for a long, long time.
00:43:12Kicking the evening off with none other than AAA and WWE Hall of Famer, Rey Mysterio.
00:43:17Look forward to that.
00:43:18So, here we go.
00:43:20Jordan Grace, the powerhouse.
00:43:22Just as I say, the powerhouse, and you see the power immediately, Corey.
00:43:27Listen, that is what brought Jordan Grace to the dance.
00:43:30We've seen her with such an incredible accounting of herself in the Royal Rumble match.
00:43:34She's dominated NXT in recent history.
00:43:37And Chelsea Green is making a big, big mistake attempting to match power with the Juggernaut.
00:43:42You see Grace's first match since losing the U.S. title, and Jordan Grace off to a very strong start.
00:43:49And you can see Jade Carville looking on here in London.
00:43:53First of the recent interactions, you understand why.
00:43:56Vertical delayed suplex.
00:43:58Jordan Grace.
00:43:59She is a powerhouse in every sense of the word.
00:44:05Put a clock on it.
00:44:08Cover here.
00:44:09There's Grace.
00:44:10Lateral press.
00:44:11And Chelsea Green.
00:44:12I wonder with those ruby red boots if Chelsea's wishing there was no place like home, right?
00:44:16Home's not that far away for a portion of her life.
00:44:20He's in a lower room here in the U.K.
00:44:22He's a citizen of the world, Tessitore, which is all the more reasonable.
00:44:27You show the proper respect.
00:44:28You're such a Patriot hop.
00:44:31Oh, up a fire with a big kick.
00:44:33Right to the chin of Jordan Grace.
00:44:35Can Chelsea Green take advantage?
00:44:37He slams Grace's face right down and hooks the leg, and Grace doesn't allow for it.
00:44:42Yes, one.
00:44:43Come on.
00:44:52Into the corner goes Jordan Grace.
00:44:55Chelsea has a golden opportunity to really spoil the evening for the juggernaut and extinguish
00:45:01some of the hype of Jordan Grace.
00:45:04Look at this.
00:45:05Sternum first.
00:45:08Backslide.
00:45:09And then right back up.
00:45:10Delivers the big clothesline.
00:45:12And again.
00:45:16Chelsea out of the way just in time.
00:45:18Heats an elbow, though.
00:45:19I know you guys at home can't see it, but Jade Cargill is just over here grinning as
00:45:26she watches this.
00:45:27I don't know if she's amused, if she's entertained, or if she's getting hungry and eager to feast
00:45:32on one of these two competitors in the future.
00:45:35Grace, three-time TNA Knockouts World Champion.
00:45:38Would you look at this?
00:45:40That is dynamic.
00:45:42That's the suplex with the leg up.
00:45:45And now Grace powering up.
00:45:47Oh, and that direct effect, that cartwheel driver, and that does it.
00:45:55The direct effect.
00:45:58Here is your winner, Jordan Grace.
00:46:01You just saw the response of Jade Cargill, who said, eh, I guess it was a golf clap.
00:46:12It was respectful, if obligatory.
00:46:15But a big win for Jordan Grace.
00:46:18Feet in front of Jade Cargill.
00:46:19Actually, Jade just confirmed she was not impressed.
00:46:21Yeah, I mean, that was like a miniature golf clap.
00:46:29Hey, champ.
00:46:33I'm glad that you came out here tonight to watch me.
00:46:35I think you all did.
00:46:37I think you all did.
00:46:37It's extremely important that you know exactly what's coming for you.
00:46:44Now, if watching tonight was just enough, that's fine.
00:46:56But if you're finally tired of babysitting that title, then you should step into the ring right here, right now.
00:47:06One thing we know about Jade is she will not back down.
00:47:13You know the response you're going to get.
00:47:14Here comes the champ.
00:47:17Jade Cargill up on the apron.
00:47:19Old move by Jordan Grace to summon the storm.
00:47:23Oh, no!
00:47:24Chelsea went running in to the back of Grace, who got out of the way, and Jade Cargill, the champ, is down.
00:47:31She didn't mean it.
00:47:32Jade, she didn't mean it.
00:47:33Chelsea did not mean that.
00:47:35And now, Jade's championship is in the hands of Jordan Grace.
00:47:45And then just tosses it to the floor in front of Jade.
00:47:50Jade.
00:47:53Jade.
00:47:54Careful, Juggernaut.
00:47:57Here's Cassie.
00:48:02Congratulations, Trick Williams.
00:48:04Massive win tonight.
00:48:05You didn't just ease your way onto SmackDown.
00:48:07You jumped right into the deep end.
00:48:08So what does this confirm for you at this point in your career that you are now heading into a number one contenders match in a fatal four-way?
00:48:17Allow this to be your warning.
00:48:18I'm putting all the SmackDown on notice.
00:48:21All you bums, bobbleheads, and bootlickers.
00:48:23Trick Williams is that dog.
00:48:26Yeah.
00:48:26I look like money.
00:48:28I feel like money.
00:48:30Because Trick Williams is money.
00:48:33And I want to send a special shout-out.
00:48:35A congratulations to Randy Orton and Damian Priest.
00:48:38Congratulations.
00:48:39Because you officially have a match with the future of the business.
00:48:43Let's talk about it.
00:48:44Well, let's-
00:48:44And I know they like to chant, whoop that trick.
00:48:46Hold on a second.
00:48:47But on Saturday, I'm going to whoop that ass.
00:48:50You feel me?
00:48:51Yeah.
00:48:51I was going to say at Saturday night's main event, uh...
00:48:54You're the guy that likes to do a lot of this.
00:49:02I don't.
00:49:04We already know what's up on Saturday night's main event.
00:49:06But I know you're free on Friday.
00:49:10And I'm free to whoop that trick.
00:49:13Go on!
00:49:32The following is an undisputed WWE Championship No. 1 contender qualifying match.
00:49:44Introducing first, from Moscow, Russia, weighing in at 210 pounds,
00:49:51Ilya Dragunov!
00:49:55That Mad Dragon burst of intensity.
00:49:58Tonight, the pain will entertain you.
00:50:04One of these two men will advance to the fatal four-way.
00:50:08Will it be the Mad Dragon?
00:50:09Or will it be the former United States champion, Sami Zayn?
00:50:14They collide live next.
00:50:20This January.
00:50:23The moments await.
00:50:25The eyes of the world are on this tonight.
00:50:27In Riyadh.
00:50:32The city.
00:50:35The excitement.
00:50:36Oh my God!
00:50:38The energy.
00:50:39Listen to this place!
00:50:42Experience Royal Rumble.
00:50:43Dreams will come true!
00:50:45Getting pumped up for Riyadh's season with Royal Rumble.
00:50:49Experience Riyadh.
00:50:51Friday night's SmackDown and Saturday night's main event coming to the Bell Center in Montreal.
00:50:59Next Friday, the 23rd.
00:51:01Saturday, the 24th.
00:51:03And combo and individual event tickets are on sale now via Ticketmaster.
00:51:07And as far as that Friday goes, Corey, what a night it's going to be.
00:51:12We've talked about how the women's tag team division has been red hot as of late.
00:51:17A number one contender's triple threat match for the women's tag team championship.
00:51:22Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair will battle Nia Jax and Lash Legend and the third team of Julia, the United States champion, and Kiana Jade.
00:51:32And I want you to consider the emotion surrounding this tag team championship match.
00:51:37The Wyatt Six against the MFTs.
00:51:40And considering what has happened the last two weeks with the cherished family lantern of the Wyatt Six in the hands of the MFTs.
00:51:48That's next Friday.
00:51:49And two of the four men who will compete at Saturday night's main event in the number one contender's fatal four-way will square off.
00:51:56Just made official moments ago.
00:51:58Trick Williams will go one-on-one with Damian Priest next Friday on SmackDown.
00:52:05Now, our qualifying match, our final qualifying match for the number one contender's fatal four-way.
00:52:10You know, back in October, Ilya Dragunov, Sami Zayn, they went to war, gave the best of each other.
00:52:16And in the end, a torpedo Moscow and an H-bomb gave the nod to the Mad Dragon.
00:52:20And now we get this for a number one contender fatal four-way spot.
00:52:28And his opponent from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, playing in at 212 pounds, Sami Zayn!
00:52:46Remember, the night started with Drew McIntyre, his first appearance as the undisputed WWE Champion.
00:52:55Sami desperately wants to earn a shot at Drew McIntyre.
00:53:00Has a long history with the Scottish Warrior and has never broken through with a win.
00:53:05To get that chance, he has to now, Corey, deal with the most unrelenting non-stop force, that man, Ilya Dragunov.
00:53:14To put it nicely, I'd say Sami Zayn is a long shot at best to become world champion any time in the near future.
00:53:21We've seen in the past, to your point, Joe, Ilya Dragunov has been one of the few who's been able to solve Sami Zayn.
00:53:29However, Sami rarely is ever makes the same mistake twice.
00:53:34No one feeds off the last crowd quite like Sami does.
00:53:38And that bodes very well for Zayn tonight.
00:53:40And this is a roaring live crowd.
00:53:44We are sold out at Wembley Arena.
00:53:47This historic site here in London, England, in the midst of our Euro Tour.
00:53:53We were in Berlin for all the history that was made with Drew and Cody last week.
00:53:57Then Dusseldorf for Raw.
00:53:59Smackdown here in London.
00:54:01And then, Corey, you're going to be headed to Belfast with Michael Cole for Monday Night Raw in Northern Ireland.
00:54:06Here we go.
00:54:07Quick detour to Mexico City.
00:54:09Yeah, exactly.
00:54:10We've got AAA tomorrow night.
00:54:12Look at this.
00:54:13Out of the opening gates.
00:54:15Both men delivering.
00:54:17This does not surprise either one of us considering where they left off.
00:54:21You know, I would question Sami Zayn in mixing it up like this with the Mad Dragon.
00:54:25Because it was the H-bomb that turned Sami the lights out.
00:54:28The H-bomb amongst a great deal of offense from Dragunov.
00:54:32That dethrones Sami Zayn.
00:54:34But Sami is a double tough individual.
00:54:37I swear I know it firsthand.
00:54:39The man won't stay down.
00:54:40The man will not quit.
00:54:44See the determination as the pace that was set early on played into Dragunov's hand.
00:54:50You can hear him say, come on, let's go.
00:54:52This is the way he likes it, Corey.
00:54:55The way that Ilya Dragunov demands it.
00:54:57He says that the pain makes him feel alive.
00:55:00He's sick.
00:55:02I mean, honestly.
00:55:03But you can't get enough of him.
00:55:05And you have to respect him and everything he's done.
00:55:08Of course, the big showdown with Carmelo Hayes that happened on December 26th.
00:55:14The United States Championship match.
00:55:16And then Hayes was willing for the rematch.
00:55:18And it was Ilya who said, I've got other plans.
00:55:21I've got a bigger target.
00:55:22This would be that bigger target to qualify and get to the number one contender fatal four away.
00:55:26Dragunov certainly possesses all of the tools necessary to be a major player here in WWE four years to come.
00:55:35His style is, oh my goodness, so intense.
00:55:39He just, I mean, he planted that boot right into the side of the head.
00:55:45And this is where he gets real dangerous.
00:55:46Diving knee, bombs away to the midsection.
00:55:52He has everything on the tool belt.
00:55:55Everything on the tool belt with his offensive arsenal.
00:55:59Back up top.
00:56:02Oh, it's Tammy.
00:56:03It will get out of the way this time.
00:56:04The scariest aspect of Dragunov's game is his willingness to take punishment.
00:56:09His willingness to suffer for victory.
00:56:11Cover by Zane.
00:56:12Lateral press to advance.
00:56:14Hooks the leg to advance.
00:56:15Again, the shoulders are down.
00:56:20One of these two men will join Randy Orton.
00:56:23Trick Williams and Damian Priest at Saturday night's main event to determine Drew McIntyre's challenger for the undisputed WWE Championship.
00:56:32Damian Priest, who earlier was able to get past Solo Satoa.
00:56:36Fly at six.
00:56:37Were present there to meet up with the MFTs.
00:56:40Trick Williams was so impressive with that trick shot against Matt Cardona and Randy Orton with an RKO to dismiss the Miz.
00:56:49That is Saturday night's main event eight days away in Montreal.
00:56:53Sammy Zane looks to take that ever-important next step toward the one title that has eluded him.
00:56:59He has never been a world champion for all of Sammy's successes.
00:57:02And when you're a competitor of that caliber, my God, you start to question yourself.
00:57:07You start to question your legacy.
00:57:09Did I do enough?
00:57:10Yes, I was this champion.
00:57:11Yes, I was that champion.
00:57:12But I was never the guy.
00:57:14And that's what Sammy's living through right now.
00:57:15That's what's driving Sammy Zane.
00:57:17Good standing.
00:57:18Switch by Zane.
00:57:19And he delivers on the German.
00:57:20And he won't let go of that grip as well.
00:57:22Look at the intensity on the face of Dragunov.
00:57:25Listen, Sammy understands that you have got to fight fire with fire.
00:57:28And you're in there with the Mad Dragon as he switches in the center of the ring.
00:57:33Back and forth they go.
00:57:35Series of standing swishes.
00:57:37Neither man able to maintain advantage.
00:57:39Beautiful German suplex.
00:57:42And now Dragunov getting to his feet.
00:57:46It's time and again he has damaged opponents and put them into that target zone to deliver.
00:57:53Sammy looking to get to his feet quickly, and he does so.
00:57:56But we've got to draw a little attention to the fact that Dragunov often inflicts punishment to himself.
00:58:01Delivering his offense.
00:58:03It is so high octane, so high impact, that you'll see him tweak something.
00:58:07And eventually it's going to backfire.
00:58:08Period.
00:58:09We always talk about risk, reward, and the attrition.
00:58:11He lives only in risk.
00:58:13Ilya Dragunov.
00:58:14Sammy from up top looking for the superplex.
00:58:19Look at that.
00:58:20Look at that impact.
00:58:22The entire ring shaking here in London.
00:58:27Both men down.
00:58:37The impact moments ago here in this ring at Wembley Arena has both Ilya Dragunov and Sammy Zane down and trying to rise to their feet.
00:58:49Sammy up to his knees first.
00:58:53This is what it could all boil down to.
00:58:54Which one of these two athletes makes the first mistake?
00:58:59These are two of the most complete superstars in the business.
00:59:05Dragunov doing his best once again to muscle over Sammy Zane.
00:59:08And if you had to compare these two, Joe, stylistically, Sammy Zane is a guy who follows his brain.
00:59:21Sammy is a master strategist when need be.
00:59:25Cover here by Dragunov.
00:59:26He's still going to qualify.
00:59:28Dragunov, on the other hand, follows his heart.
00:59:31Dragunov is all feeling, all adrenaline, all the time.
00:59:35I mean, it's served him very well, but it can also be Dragunov's worst enemy.
00:59:38Well, he just broke down and another elbow to the back of the head.
00:59:42Sammy's got to cover up there.
00:59:45Ilya knows he's got to be ruthless.
00:59:47This is exactly how the Mad Dragon wants it.
00:59:50A big believer of iron sharpening iron.
00:59:53Dragunov wants every opponent to fight their very best at the top of their game.
00:59:58Because Dragunov wants to beat you with honor.
01:00:00I mean, there are things when you watch a Dragunov match that just catch your attention.
01:00:04I'll just tell you one of the small ones that you see time and again when you're this close.
01:00:08Simply the way he exhales.
01:00:10Simply how much he's giving the energy, the inhale and exhale, the lung capacity.
01:00:16How about the fact that both of these men are just standing here willingly,
01:00:19striking each other in the face, cutting by his arm.
01:00:22Couldn't that be enough for Cindy's arm?
01:00:23To your point, Joe, I honestly, being around Dragunov a lot more recently,
01:00:28it's like he's the next step in human evolution.
01:00:30Yeah.
01:00:30The man has built himself into a machine.
01:00:33He has taken all the pain that he's endured throughout his entire life
01:00:36and used it to build himself a body of armor.
01:00:39Solid muscle.
01:00:41Explosive offense.
01:00:43Dragunov is a machine.
01:00:44Sammy checking his teeth there?
01:00:46Sammy saying if something's missing?
01:00:47Any time you're in the ring with Dragunov, it's a real possibility.
01:00:55Let's go!
01:01:00Look at this.
01:01:01Sammy saying to tee it off now.
01:01:05Kick I can kick right to the head of Dragunov.
01:01:08It's turned into that kind of a match.
01:01:17Sammy trying to wrestle Dragunov into a more favorable position and got caught.
01:01:23Sammy got caught.
01:01:25Able to lock up that left ankle before Sammy was able to get to the corner.
01:01:32Oh my God.
01:01:36That right hand for the change has busted open the eye of Dragunov.
01:01:39There is Sammy Zane up against Ilya Dragunov in the last of our qualifying matches for the number one contender Fatal 4-Way.
01:01:53That'll be next week at Saturday Night's main event.
01:01:56Can Sammy deliver here against the Mad Dragon who rises to his feet?
01:02:00You can see Dragunov's been busted open by a straight right moments to go.
01:02:05Sammy Zane made full connection right on the eyebrow of the former United States champion.
01:02:10But that can backfire.
01:02:12Dragunov feels more alive than ever right now.
01:02:14He knows he's in a fight.
01:02:16Working his way, trying to get up to the ropes against Sammy Zane.
01:02:19Back and forth they have gone.
01:02:21And Zane seemingly has him lined up here in London.
01:02:25To deliver.
01:02:26Sit down.
01:02:27He's trying to advance.
01:02:30Sammy saw the opening.
01:02:32Made the most of the opportunity.
01:02:34But it was not enough to keep Ilya down for three.
01:02:38Take another look at this.
01:02:40Sunset flip powerbomb by Sammy Zane.
01:02:43Hooks the leg.
01:02:45But Dragunov with a little too much left in the tank.
01:02:48They met in the Classic back in October when Dragunov defeated Sammy to become the U.S. champion.
01:02:53Don't worry about him, Doc.
01:02:54Since then, Dragunov has taken on all challengers.
01:02:58But here in 2026, he wants the big target.
01:03:00He wants to fight for the undisputed championship.
01:03:03Sammy, of course, would love to get his hands on Drew McIntyre.
01:03:07Was going through Blue Thunder.
01:03:08It didn't deliver.
01:03:09Instead, a little Konstantin special.
01:03:12A Konstantin special from Dragunov.
01:03:15Turns Sammy inside out.
01:03:16And just like that, Dragunov back in this battle.
01:03:20Perched on top.
01:03:21The Mad Dragon ready to strike.
01:03:23Right where he wants to be.
01:03:25Dragunov.
01:03:27Oh, my.
01:03:28Missile style to advance.
01:03:32So close.
01:03:34So close.
01:03:36Was Ilya.
01:03:36Almost the entire way.
01:03:39I'll show you.
01:03:40At least halfway across the ring.
01:03:42Dragunov making contact.
01:03:45But not enough to finish Sammy Zayn.
01:03:49A man who has his sights set on world championship gold.
01:03:57Uh-oh.
01:03:57This could be it.
01:03:58This could be the perfect position for the Mad Dragon to drop it.
01:04:02Here comes the H-ball.
01:04:04Oh, he got the boot up.
01:04:05Up kick by Zayn.
01:04:08Sammy got the boot up.
01:04:10I told you, Sammy rarely falls for the same trick twice.
01:04:16Looking for the corner exploder.
01:04:18Dragunov knows what's coming.
01:04:20Trying to line up that exploder.
01:04:21Instead, Dragunov.
01:04:23He goes from a squat position to a kick.
01:04:25And it's Sammy who's compromised in the corner.
01:04:28It caught Zayn right between the eyes.
01:04:30Here comes Ilya.
01:04:31Picking up speed.
01:04:32Does he ever.
01:04:33And look at with all that velocity.
01:04:35The impact.
01:04:39Dragunov.
01:04:40Back to business.
01:04:43Another massive clothesline in the corner.
01:04:46Sammy's heels are going over his head.
01:04:49Oh, trying to follow him.
01:04:50Dragunov.
01:04:51Dragunov lured Sammy in.
01:04:54Ilya realized Sammy was trying to follow him.
01:04:57With a halubah kick.
01:04:58And the dragon sensed it coming.
01:05:00And that right leg was draped awkwardly over the top rope.
01:05:05And now Dragunov out on the apron with Sammy.
01:05:10And Sammy able to fight his way out of position.
01:05:13Still awkwardly meshed into the rope.
01:05:15Correct me if I'm mistaken.
01:05:17But that Death Valley driver on the apron.
01:05:18Was the prelude to Ilya becoming United States champion.
01:05:23And now.
01:05:25Torpedo Moscow on the apron.
01:05:27Zayn may be out cold.
01:05:28And with that.
01:05:29The body's draping down.
01:05:30Here's your Torpedo Moscow on the apron.
01:05:33And both bodies draping down.
01:05:35Our competitors have extended themselves again.
01:05:39Giving so much.
01:05:40And now the count.
01:05:42Reaching seven as Dragunov enters the ring.
01:05:50Zayn at the very last second.
01:05:52Wow.
01:05:539.9.
01:05:54And Dragunov.
01:05:56Here he goes.
01:05:57Sammy should have stayed on the outside.
01:06:00Ilya Dragunov.
01:06:02Up on the top rope.
01:06:04Oh.
01:06:05Zayn got the knees up.
01:06:06The senton backfires.
01:06:08The knee hit him in the back of the head.
01:06:11And now the exploder.
01:06:15Sammy Zayn.
01:06:16Trying to be the last to qualify for the number one contender.
01:06:23Fatal four-way.
01:06:24Oh.
01:06:25Oh.
01:06:25And he landed it perfectly, Corey.
01:06:281, 2, 3.
01:06:32Here is your winner.
01:06:33Sammy Zayn.
01:06:38Sammy Zayn.
01:06:39You survived the fight.
01:06:42Now your journey takes you home.
01:06:46With an opportunity of a lifetime.
01:06:49The hallouba kick from Sammy Zayn.
01:06:52Couples the Mad Dragon.
01:06:55And earns Sammy entry into the number one contender's fatal four-way.
01:07:01Look at that.
01:07:01A week from tomorrow.
01:07:02Oh, look at that foursome.
01:07:06Trick Williams.
01:07:08With Randy Orton.
01:07:09Thinking of Trick.
01:07:10Trick from behind.
01:07:11Trick Williams just attacked Sammy from behind.
01:07:16The young, brash, bold, rising star.
01:07:22The newest addition.
01:07:24Oh, the trick shot.
01:07:25He lowered the knee pad and delivered a brutal trick shot.
01:07:31He didn't just deliver a trick shot, Joe.
01:07:33Trick Williams just made a declaration.
01:07:36He's coming for the undisputed WWE Championship.
01:07:40The Viper.
01:07:41Damien Priest.
01:07:42Sammy Zayn and that man in the fatal four-way next week in Montreal.
01:07:47I'm going to be running this a long time, huh?
01:07:49What you thought this was, huh?
Be the first to comment