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00:00Ready to kill this for good.
00:02Trick Williams with a burst of speed.
00:04One trick shot.
00:05And a one, two, three later.
00:07The champ has retained the superior movement when it counted.
00:13Championship poise and timing from Trick Williams,
00:16who's legend in this industry, is continuing to grow.
00:20You are holding $2 in your hand.
00:22What is that going to get us tonight?
00:24Vegas will take what they can get.
00:27But Trick Williams celebrating.
00:29And again, the frustration continues to grow for the veteran Sammy Zane.
00:34We want to remind everyone that, well, thank you for joining us on ESPN2.
00:38We head over to the ESPN app with the unlimited plan in just a couple of moments.
00:44And, of course, our main event tonight is this family civil war
00:47between the world champion Roman Reigns and the challenger, his cousin, Jacob Batu.
00:52Yeah, what a wild ride that matchup is going to be.
00:54The championship on the line.
00:57That's our main event tonight also coming up on the ESPN app and Netflix internationally.
01:03EOSky takes on Asuka.
01:05What a rollercoaster of emotions this has been for both of these women.
01:09Again, we head over to the ESPN app with the unlimited plan.
01:12Netflix internationally.
01:13See you on the other side.
01:21This summer, the world arrives.
01:25Guarantee your place at the FIFA World Cup when it comes to North America.
01:32Elevate every minute of match day and experience the very best of the beautiful game
01:37with a ticket-inclusive hospitality package.
01:45The countdown to kickoff is on.
01:50For one moment, I felt a power like I've never felt before.
01:55A lightning bolt hit me.
01:56He had a great promo on a scale of 1 to 10.
01:59Hulk Hogan was a 10.
02:00If your Richter scale spins around 3 and 4 times, it's not an earthquake.
02:04It's just me pressing that big Elijah over my head in the sundome.
02:09Hulk Hogan would talk for 59 seconds exactly.
02:12And I was like, cut.
02:13That's a take.
02:14I don't like to overthink things.
02:15There's nothing to think about either.
02:17You can dance and play the guitar and play the fiddle or you can't.
02:25Pressure.
02:26We invade France Monday.
02:30We are faced with two aggressive storms.
02:33Call Eisenhower.
02:35We have a small window, but the timing must be perfect.
02:39Send my men into the storm.
02:43They'll never see it coming.
02:45We will accept nothing less than full victory.
02:49Pressure.
02:50The untold true story of D-Day.
02:51Rated PG-13.
02:52Only in theaters May 29th.
02:53With special engagements at Dolby Cinema.
02:57Backlash is in Tampa, Florida tonight.
03:00Visit Tampa Bay.
03:01And the Tampa Bay Sports Commission lead the way in bringing top-tier sports and entertainment
03:06to the destination.
03:13And how about Cook by Sophie Tucker, an official theme song of Backlash.
03:17It is available now on Apple Music and Spotify.
03:22Hey, Wade, how about we go shop exclusive Backlash gear right now at WWEShop.com.
03:29Tonight, only 25% off site-wide.
03:40Hey, the general is giving a break to the Long family.
03:44They're going from the upper bowl to ringside.
03:46All thanks to the general.
03:48Go to general.com slash WWE to enter for a chance to be crowned the fan of the year.
03:53Holla, holla.
03:54The Long family in the house.
03:57Holla, holla?
03:58Teddy Long.
03:59Okay.
04:00I get you now.
04:02All right.
04:03Made sense.
04:04Now I feel stupid.
04:06Give me the first time.
04:21Awesome!
04:21I can't do it.
04:24There's a price to pay.
04:26Time for you to get down on your knees.
04:28I can't do it.
04:29I can't do it.
04:31I can't do it.
04:33I can't do it.
04:34I can't do it.
04:35The throwaway is a turn to my schedule for one call.
04:39Introducing first, the team of Kit Wilson and The Miz.
04:48I wonder how much time Kit Wilson spends in front of that mirror.
04:52Well, if you looked as good as Kit Wilson, you would spend that amount of time in front
04:56of the mirror, too.
04:57However, unfortunately for your wife, you look like Michael Cole.
05:02I'm afraid to look in the mirror.
05:04The Miz and Kit Wilson set for tag team action against Dan Housen and someone.
05:10Yeah.
05:11Nobody.
05:12You think he's going to go it alone?
05:14No one will tag with him.
05:29This is how this matchup came about, folks.
05:44Look, I am trying to help these young superstars like Ilya.
05:47I know.
05:48I have someone for you to mentor.
05:50Meet Dan Housen.
05:51Oh, my God.
05:52The most messy WWE superstar of all time.
05:55The Miz.
05:56I'm Dan Housen.
05:57You're perfect for this.
05:58And as my mentor, you can wear his best-selling new T-shirt.
06:02Hey, the Miz.
06:03Come on in.
06:04The water's great.
06:05He's my pool.
06:06Get off.
06:06Oh, my hand.
06:07Why can't you get it through your Dracula brain that I'm not going to mentor you?
06:12I have to bechise-
06:12How are you on cast?
06:22Nice.
06:23I would love to marry you all over again.
06:26And I just want to say, who the hell do you think you are?
06:35I am cursed.
06:40Dan Housen, I will be your mentor.
06:46There is no curse.
06:48You are not the mentee.
06:50You're not a part of this family.
06:51You are toxic.
06:53Toxic.
06:53Toxic.
06:54Dan Housen demands a match with them.
06:56How about at Backlash, if you find a tag-team partner that matches yours.
07:00All right.
07:02You really think this is going to work?
07:04Whoa.
07:05Free human money.
07:09Eric, it's my daughter's bike.
07:37So, Ms. and Kit Wilson waiting to see who Dan Housen, if anyone, will tag with here tonight.
07:49Come on.
07:51Who we got?
07:53Who we got?
07:54Who we got?
08:24Who we got?
08:27You.
08:28Are.
08:30You.
08:34Dan Housen.
08:36You.
08:38Oh, God.
08:40The Dan Housen-mobile.
08:41Oh, not this contraption again.
08:45He took me for a ride in that earlier today.
08:48Had to ride in the back, but...
08:51You.
08:53You.
08:54Somebody tow it.
08:56Take it to the pound.
08:58Clamp it.
08:58Get rid of it.
08:59It's a fire hazard.
09:02Right.
09:07So, this doofus couldn't get anyone to tag with him, so he's built a cloning machine to clone himself, so
09:14he has a tag partner.
09:16Yeah, good luck with that.
09:17You know, they have cloned sheep.
09:19You know, they have cloned sheep.
09:19Oh, here we go.
09:20Oh, here we go.
09:24Oh, my God.
09:26What on earth is that?
09:36That's the clone of Dan Housen.
09:38Oh, it looks just like him.
09:39He's a booty Housen.
09:40But did the machine run out of juice halfway through the process?
09:43Where's the rest of it?
09:44Well, the cloning machine worked, obviously.
09:47Well, it obviously worked to about 50% strength.
09:52This thing is going to tag with Dan Housen.
09:54This is actually happening.
09:56Wait, it's a person.
09:58Are you sure?
09:59I'm positive.
10:01People don't come out of clone machines, Michael Cole.
10:04Explain that.
10:05Well, they clone sheep.
10:06You don't believe in that either?
10:07Hey, Dan Housen.
10:09What's up, buddy?
10:10How are you?
10:11Hey, Vinny Dan Housen.
10:13Get away from it.
10:14I think he may curse you.
10:16I am cursed by the fact that I have to sit next to Michael Cole for the entirety of this
10:20broadcast.
10:21I think I've suffered enough already.
10:29That is the coolest thing.
10:32There's nothing cool about this.
10:33This is just absurd.
10:35It's making a mockery of the Hall of Fame career of The Miz and the future Hall of Fame career
10:43of Kit Wilson.
10:44Oh, it's not going to get carried away.
10:51Tell you, Dan Housen's taken the world by storm.
10:54He was on ESPN all week this week.
10:56Did you see when he did the top plays of the week?
10:59One of the funniest things I've ever seen.
11:01He cursed SportsCenter anchors.
11:02He cursed Stephen A. Smith, who deserves it.
11:06Dan Housen has not taken the world by storm.
11:10He has taken the feeble-minded of this world by storm.
11:15Big difference.
11:17There's a lot of people off saying that.
11:20A lot of feeble-minded people.
11:22Don't check your socials tonight.
11:24Why not?
11:24I'll block them all.
11:25Dan Housen and Mini Housen.
11:31Miz ready to master, inspire and zone in on this 50% clone of Dan Housen.
11:37So the matchup's underway.
11:39It is a tag team matchup.
11:42And I think Kit Wilson wants to start things off against Mini Housen.
11:47Who wouldn't want to start against that thing?
11:50You stop calling it a thing.
11:52It's a human being, Wade.
11:57Oh, and Kit Wilson.
11:59Okay.
12:00On a serious note, is that actually a child?
12:03Because if it is, the whole company's going to get in a ton of trouble here.
12:06It's not a child.
12:07How do you know?
12:08It's a Mini Housen.
12:11Big difference.
12:13You actually don't know this for sure.
12:16Mini Housen just landed on his feet.
12:19Rolled through, kicked out of the knee.
12:20And look at him go.
12:21Kit's got some moves.
12:24Springboard.
12:25Guess what?
12:26All right, this isn't fair.
12:28I think he's a Lucha Housen.
12:32Get it?
12:33Whatever.
12:34Talking to the dead out here.
12:36Nice takedown by Mini Housen.
12:39And now Miz into the matchup.
12:42Let's pick things up, Miz.
12:45And Miz having a tough time here in the early going.
12:48Jeez.
12:48Wow, what a hurricanrana.
12:51That cloning machine's pretty good.
12:53Round the wall twice.
12:54This thing, this little person, as you like to put it, Michael Cole,
12:59has some real talent.
13:00And I don't think Kit Wilson or Miz were anywhere near prepared for this.
13:07He's now going to climb to the top rope.
13:11Oh!
13:12Here it is Undertaker impersonation.
13:16And Wilson, though, able to power up Mini Housen.
13:22He continues to pound away and now sent Kit Wilson outside the ring.
13:26So I can, you know, in defense of Miz, I guess.
13:28They weren't prepared for this.
13:30Well, he's a slippery little devil.
13:31That's what the problem we're having here.
13:34We need to slow this little guy down.
13:36And that doesn't appear to be happening anytime soon.
13:40And now, on the shoulders of Dan Housen.
13:45And taking out Miz and Kit Wilson.
13:47All right.
13:47We need a strategy.
13:49And we need a strategy fast, Miz.
13:51Start thinking.
13:52Use all your 20-plus years of experience at the top.
13:56Two-time Grand Slam champ, the Miz, being put through this by Dan Housen.
14:01Gingerbread man and Mini Housen.
14:03What a 24 hours we've had.
14:06And now, Miz driving Dan Housen into the steel post.
14:10Well, this is more like it.
14:12Yes!
14:13And driving Mini Housen into the ropes.
14:16Referee Eddie Arango trying to stop Kit Wilson, Miz, with a cheap shot.
14:20Well, Mini Housen is a little bit too toxic for my liking.
14:24And it's about time Kit Wilson stamps some authority on this match.
14:28And hopefully on the face of Mini Housen.
14:30Well, he's going to be Deadhousen soon.
14:33Can't wait.
14:34Center to the corner of the second turnbuckle.
14:37And Wilson now with a tag to the Miz.
14:40Hey, this all started when Dan Housen asked Miz to be his mentor.
14:45And Miz turned him down.
14:47Of course he turned him down.
14:48Nobody wants to be Dan Housen's mentor.
14:53Now, look at the power of Miz now with a military press.
14:57He's pretty proud of this.
15:01Well, you would be proud if you could pull off a move like that.
15:06Against a...
15:08Someone who weighs about 60 pounds.
15:10What a rippling physique of the Miz.
15:13There's simply no competing with that level of talent.
15:16Mini Housen or otherwise.
15:21I don't know.
15:22You know, Miz used to like to have fun, right?
15:25This is fun.
15:26He's beating up the Mini Housen.
15:27This is, but...
15:30I mean, in Miz's mind.
15:42Get it out!
15:44Dan Housen needs a refund on his clone machine.
15:48And there's the vertical suplex delivered by Kit Wilson.
15:52Thought he was going to have a nonchalant cover.
15:55And Mini Housen able to get the shoulder up.
15:57Yeah, that was a close one.
15:59It's almost over.
16:00And another cover.
16:01Got to like the fight in this little dude.
16:11Now Kit Wilson just wearing him down.
16:14Well, Mini Housen is just making it worse for himself.
16:19All right, you've come out here.
16:20You've impressed everyone with your moves.
16:22But just tap out.
16:24Go to the back.
16:26And never return to WWE.
16:28Well, look who's back up on the apron trying to rally the crowd.
16:32In the far corner, Dan Housen's here.
16:34As Kit Wilson now ragdolls Mini Housen.
16:43Placing Mini Housen in the old trio.
16:49One, two, three.
16:54That was simply no defense at this point.
16:57Mini Housen is a beaten man.
17:00And Kit Wilson, of course, enjoying every...
17:03Oh, great core strength by Mini Housen.
17:06Amazing powers of recovery, too.
17:08And what the hell is he up to now?
17:10From the top rope, moonsault!
17:20Dan Housen trying to rally the WWE fans.
17:23Here comes Miz.
17:24Oh, God.
17:25Here comes Dan Housen.
17:27Very nice.
17:28Very evil.
17:31This little pest who has caused the Miz and Kit Wilson so many problems.
17:37He doesn't look like a little pest here.
17:38There's some sweet moves by Dan Housen.
17:41Continuing to hold Kit and Miz.
17:49Running out of steam a little bit.
17:54Trying to catch his breath.
18:03Nobody home.
18:04Kit Wilson into Miz.
18:05Oh.
18:06Release German.
18:08Wow.
18:09He hides it well, but he has some real talent once he gets going.
18:13I can't lie.
18:16On a DDT by Dan Housen.
18:19Dan Housen impressive in the ring.
18:21Well, this would be the biggest humiliation of Miz and Kit's career if somehow...
18:27You are Miz!
18:32And Kit Wilson took the bullet for Miz.
18:35Miz now from behind.
18:36He's the legal man.
18:37Got the tights kicked out by Dan Housen.
18:39Kit Wilson put in Housen's body on the line for his mentor, and it's paying off now.
18:47Tag made.
18:49Mini Housen the legal man.
18:50I don't think Miz saw that, but he knows now.
18:55Mini Housen, top rope.
18:58Ronald will send Kit Wilson out of the ring.
19:01Like a projectile landing on Miz in the process.
19:05And this Mini Housen is up to something.
19:10Suicide dive.
19:11Down goes Kit.
19:14A rough landing for all three on that one, but now staggered Mini Housen.
19:18And Kit Wilson smells victory.
19:21And Kit Wilson wants a timeout for a shower.
19:32And ran right into a poop by Kit.
19:37Just suck it in, the little guy.
19:40How smart is Kit Wilson?
19:42Brains as well as good looks.
19:44The guy's got everything.
19:46Oh no, back into the cloning machine.
19:49Return to sender.
19:51Address unknown.
19:56So Mini Housen's locked in the cloning machine.
20:00Hey, it restarted.
20:03Hopefully it blows up.
20:13Mini Housen has...
20:15All job.
20:15Yeah!
20:16Oh, look at this!
20:19More Mini Housens!
20:21They're assaulting Kit Wilson!
20:22Those little goblins from Wrestlemania!
20:25The cloning machine works!
20:27It works a little too well, if you ask me!
20:33Wilson in trouble!
20:35Oh God, they're coming this way!
20:36Oh my God, oh my God, Wade!
20:37They're all over you!
20:38Look at this, Wade!
20:39Look at this!
20:40Airplane spin!
20:41Airplane spin!
20:44Wasteland!
20:45Oh, that's my move!
20:47Wasteland!
20:47You dirty little goblin!
20:49Don't you dare use a Wasteland!
20:52Wade!
20:52Oh my God, Wade!
20:53He's on your lap!
20:54He's on your lap, Wade!
20:55Wade!
20:56He just took Wade out of his hair!
20:58Uh-oh!
21:00And look at this!
21:01Oh, wait a minute!
21:02Mini Housen!
21:03Mini Housen!
21:03Tried to curse Kit Wilson!
21:05Kit Wilson with a mirror!
21:06Turned the curse around!
21:07Miz down!
21:08With a skull-crushing finale!
21:10Kit Wilson breaks things up!
21:13Mini Housen tried to curse Kit Wilson!
21:16But Wilson used that mirror to turn the curse around and curse Mini Housen!
21:23Genius!
21:23Now somebody come along and get rid of these multiple Mini Housens at the desk!
21:28They're gonna chew through the wires!
21:30They're biting me!
21:32And Dan Housen now, trying to rally!
21:35Trying to get Mini Housen to the corner!
21:38The hell is going on?
21:40Well, tag is made!
21:41Dan Housen now the legal man!
21:46Oh, Miz with a slap!
21:48Man, this has been humiliating for Miz and Kit Wilson so far tonight!
21:55And look at this!
21:56Little Fez press!
21:57Very little Fez press!
21:59The piston-like hands of Dan Housen!
22:02Sends Miz over the top rope!
22:05Kit Wilson gonna try his fair!
22:07He goes over the top as well!
22:09Oh, this one's got a hell in a hand basket!
22:13These things keep grimacing at me!
22:16And now the celebration out here!
22:19Shoot!
22:20Dan Housen sent into our table!
22:23Miz now!
22:24Yes, finish the job!
22:25Miz with a fire extinguisher in hand!
22:29Hope he knows how to use this thing!
22:32We are here!
22:36No, Miz, I believe you!
22:39It's a dunk!
22:40Are cursed!
22:41No!
22:44Miz just blasted his partner!
22:47Just froze his own eyeballs!
22:49Miz can't see!
22:52I wish I couldn't!
22:59You are cursed!
23:02Miz, I wish I could!
23:04Miz from the top rope takes out Kit Wilson!
23:09Dan Housen!
23:11Pump kick!
23:13Cover!
23:14One, two, three!
23:18Here are your winners!
23:20The team of Miz, Miz and Dan Housen!
23:25Ladies and gentlemen, a buddy just texted me and I agree!
23:29This right here, Wade, this is wrestling!
23:32No, it's not!
23:34What the hell just happened, Michael Cole?
23:37What happened to the industry that I love so much?
23:40I'm covered in Miz houses, saliva, paint, bruises and bite marks!
23:48Oh, what a match this was!
23:51Kit Wilson threw the Miz, Miz into the cloning machine!
23:54Problem was, it cloned Dan Housen five more times!
23:58Yeah, it worked way too well!
24:00And then these little things ran riot outside the ring!
24:05So this is right after the mirror turned the curse around to Minnie Housen!
24:09Off the skull-crushing finale!
24:11It was Dan Housen breaking things up!
24:13And this is one of the most disgraceful scenes we've ever seen in wrestling!
24:17The cursed fire extinguisher suddenly was uncursed!
24:20Right in the face of Miz and Kit Wilson!
24:24And now blinded!
24:26And Luchahousen launches himself off the top rope!
24:31And then Dan Housen with the icing on the cake!
24:35A pump kick to the man that all he wanted to do, Wade,
24:38was have Miz as his mentor!
24:40Miz said no, and now the Miz is cursed!
24:45Well, I hope the young athletes of NXT are studying this intensely
24:50to know exactly what not to do in the world of professional wrestling!
24:56Dan Housen and the Minnie Housen celebrating
25:00tonight!
25:01Tonight's work this time!
25:02Right now!
25:03For real!
25:07We're not quite on the same page yet on how to disappear!
25:10When it goes dark!
25:14Hey, you know, bring home all the action with the all-new
25:18LJN WWE Superstars Vintage Style Action Figures!
25:22Wave 2 features some of the all-time greats of WWE,
25:24including King Kong Bundy!
25:26Along with Hall of Famers, the Ultimate Warrior,
25:28Stone Cold Steve Austin and Jeff Zedavati Ventura look for these figures now at Target
25:32in the United States!
25:34And right now, we have some breaking news with this special announcement!
25:40This September, the biggest spectacle in Lucha Libre transforms into an unforgettable two-night
25:48event.
25:51It all starts Friday, September 11th, and ends Sunday, September 13th, in Mexico City.
26:01It's the first-ever two-night Triple Mania!
26:05Friday, September 11th, and Sunday, September 13th.
26:08Scan the QR code for more information and stay tuned for the first location to be announced.
26:16Mexican Lucha Libre promotion, Triple-A, will hold its largest annual event, Triple Mania,
26:21across two nights for the first time this September.
26:24Triple Mania 34 will take place on Friday, September 11th, at a location to be announced,
26:28followed by Arena CDMX in Mexico City on Sunday, September 13th.
26:32Fans interested in receiving an exclusive presale can register at www.com slash Triple Mania 34,
26:38and look out for Triple Mania's opening night location to be announced soon.
26:45Still to come tonight, it is our main event.
26:48The OTC, the original Tribal Chief, Roman Reigns, in a family civil war against his cousin, Jacob Batu.
26:56They battle for the World Heavyweight Championship tonight.
27:03When you don't order furniture from Wayfair, it's natural to wonder what if.
27:08Like, what if it doesn't fit the space?
27:11Or what if it's tough to put together?
27:14What if it doesn't hold up?
27:18What if your friend Charles hates it?
27:20I hate it.
27:21With Wayfair, you don't have to wonder what if.
27:23It's style you'll love with quality you can trust.
27:26That Wayfair sofa is fresh.
27:28These chips, stale.
27:31You don't eat all that popcorn.
27:54You don't eat all that popcorn.
28:07SummerSlam is coming to U.S. Bank Stadium in Minnesota, August 1st and 2nd.
28:13Two-day combo tickets on sale now via Ticketmaster.
28:41The following contest is scheduled for one call.
28:45We're introducing first from Tokyo, Japan, Iho Sky.
28:53Well, it has been a rollercoaster of emotions for Iho Sky over the past couple of years
28:59in this caustic relationship with the Empress of Tomorrow, Asuka.
29:03These two started off in Japan many years ago in what is called the Senpai Kohai System.
29:09Senpai the Senior, that was Asuka.
29:11Kohai the Junior, that was Iho Sky.
29:14But Asuka says she never treated Iho Sky that way.
29:17She treated her as an equal.
29:19In fact, they went on to form a very successful tag team called Triple Tails.
29:23But in the years after that wave, Asuka claims that Iho Sky turned her back on the Empress of Tomorrow.
29:30Hence the reason we are here today.
29:32Well, she absolutely did turn her back on the Empress of Tomorrow, her mentor, the woman who brought her into
29:37this industry
29:38because Iho Sky chose to team up with Asuka's biggest rival in her entire career, Rhea Bloody Ripley.
29:45That's something you just don't do.
30:03So Asuka feeling abandoned as an ally to Iho Sky turned all her venom and her poison mist towards the
30:12genius of the sky.
30:36Asuka says she continues to attempt to cut out the dead weight in her life.
30:42And people that have been failing her like Iho Sky.
30:45Asuka says the victory tonight will allow her to free herself.
30:50Remember the mind game started for Asuka this past Monday on Raw during that sit-down interview where she actually
30:56misted Iho Sky.
30:58Something Iho Sky has to watch out for tonight.
31:00Yeah, this form of friendship, mentor, mentee relationship has turned into bitterness, jealousy, betrayal.
31:09And clearly Asuka wants to excommunicate Iho Sky for good.
31:15Well, now is your chance, Asuka.
31:18Two of the most decorated women in WWE doing battle tonight.
31:24The evil empress, Asuka, and the genius of the sky, Iho Sky.
31:29No doubt about it.
31:31Two of the greatest in-ring talents in history, globally respected.
31:35But now with a serious loathing for one another.
31:44Very intense-looking Iho Sky, who has been hurt by this breakdown in relationship with Asuka.
31:51Asuka looks incredibly relaxed.
31:54And that bodes well for the empress of tomorrow.
32:02So Iho and Asuka underway here at Backlash.
32:08This moment has been years in the making.
32:14And a collar and elbow tie-up to start things off tonight.
32:18If you're Iho Sky, how do you take out Asuka?
32:20Well, you've got to mentally, first of all, stay in the game and forget the fact that this was a
32:25close confidant for many years.
32:26The one we brought you into the industry.
32:28You've got to keep your mind together.
32:30You've also got to avoid that poison mist if it does rear its head.
32:36And now Iho Sky backing Asuka into the ropes.
32:40The official tonight in this match-up.
32:44Jason Aaron looking on, and Iho now and Asuka.
32:48There was an almost hesitation from Iho on that break.
32:52Did not want to strike Asuka.
32:54Asuka had no hesitation whatsoever.
32:56Respect is clearly one way at this point in the match.
33:00And Asuka with a side headlock wrestling Iho Sky to the mat.
33:05Both these women were part of the group damage control a number of years ago.
33:10And things really started to fall apart.
33:15And now Asuka and Iho Sky turns it around into a side headlock.
33:22Asuka clearly has such a domineering personality.
33:26Tends to appreciate wallflowers who are happy to be subservient to her.
33:31There can be only one queen bee around here.
33:34And as far as Asuka is concerned, it is her.
33:37Yeah, but Iho Sky doesn't belong in the shadow of Asuka anymore.
33:40She's an accomplished two-time world champion, money in the bank winner.
33:45Certainly doesn't belong in the shadow.
33:46But what Asuka sees is that Iho is an ungrateful former student who has now thrown back everything Asuka has
33:53shown up in her face.
33:55She was tired of being treated like garbage.
33:57And off that basement dropkick, Iho Sky now on the attack.
34:02Someone tags up with your worst enemy.
34:03I question who really is treating who like garbage, Michael Cole.
34:08Iho Sky does own a one-on-one victory over Asuka.
34:12That was three years ago when Iho was the champion.
34:17WWE champion.
34:18Asuka face first into the second turnbuckle.
34:22And it's really that superior movement of Iho Sky that is telling the story right now.
34:29Cover by Iho.
34:31Asuka kicks out at two.
34:32Asuka is a master of strikes, a master of technical holds.
34:36But that movement, that high-flying ability of Iho Sky is where the genius of the Sky really needs to
34:41focus on attacks in this world.
34:43And you talked about Iho's relationship with the now WWE champion Rhea Ripley.
34:47They were tag champs, won the tag titles from the Kubu-Bi Warriors, of which Asuka was a part back
34:51earlier this year.
34:54Iho now dropping Asuka to the floor.
34:57Well, Iho has really woken up after the early goings.
35:00The polite early start from Iho has been put to bed now.
35:03And look at Asuka, great move.
35:05Iho is going up the ropes and Asuka able to counter.
35:08And now, oh, goodness.
35:10Oh, side of the head first into the steel ring post.
35:15The gloves really are off now.
35:18Yeah, this is where Asuka becomes so dangerous.
35:22It is part of the problem.
35:23These two do know each other so well.
35:25And clearly, Asuka is using that to her advantage, second-guessing exactly what Iho is going to try.
35:31And then cutting her off at the pass before Iho gets any momentum.
35:45And now, Asuka, this is vintage Asuka right here.
35:49Always needs to be the moment that Asuka really punishes Iho, makes an example out of Iho.
35:56Asuka makes her regret the day she even met Rhea Bloody Ripley.
36:04This is the pace that Asuka wants.
36:06Absolutely.
36:07A slow and torturous breakdown of the body of the Genius of the Sky.
36:12How the hell can Iho Sky take flight with a busted back on a rattled brake?
36:21And round Iho, do not allow her to fly.
36:28Now Asuka just punishing Iho in the corner.
36:32This is the aggressiveness, the style that Asuka likes.
36:34Yeah, Asuka's completely smothering Iho Sky in this one.
36:38And what a strategy, using all her years of experience, every move in her playbook,
36:44to not let Iho get out of the blocks.
36:46And Iho's just getting bullied in there now.
36:50Asuka just trying to teach Iho a lesson.
36:52Iho back to her feet, trying to fight back now.
36:54Here comes Iho Sky, taking the fight to Asuka.
36:56Yeah, and this taunting from Asuka has really-
37:00Oh, that kick just drops Iho.
37:02Is it enough to put her away?
37:03And a kick out by Sky.
37:04Yeah, that was such a brutal shot.
37:06I was about to say this taunting of Iho has finally snapped something inside the Genius of the Sky.
37:13And she's starting to fight fire with fire, but as soon as she was out of the blocks,
37:17they're chopped back down by a vicious strike.
37:24Now controlling the left arm of Sky, continues the aggressive nature of this match-up.
37:31This is about making an example of an unruly student, a former student,
37:36not just beating Iho, but beating her up and torturing her in front of the world.
37:42Iho body shots now to Asuka, and again, with no remorse.
37:48And look at Asuka.
37:49Asuka, just a little extra venom on every single shot.
37:53We know how tough Asuka really is.
37:54We've seen it time and time again, how vicious those shots are.
37:58But there's a little extra 15 or 20% on each one of them tonight.
38:02And Iho simply has no answer for it.
38:05We have four-time world champion Asuka.
38:08She's won a rumble of Money in the Bank.
38:11Five tag team titles to her credit.
38:16What a strike.
38:20And another kick.
38:22And I love how relentless Asuka is being.
38:27No sentimentality whatsoever.
38:30Yeah, but Iho able to intercept and now deliver a forearm of her own.
38:34Now Asuka down.
38:36Iho stopped in the midsection.
38:37And Iho starting to build it.
38:39Well, maybe not.
38:40Just collapses after the punishment at the hands of the Empress of Tomorrow.
38:44Well, it may well have been a final flurry from Iho Sky, who has taken such a beating since this
38:49match started.
38:51Bought her a brief respite.
38:53Well, you suspect that Asuka is going to be back throwing bombs very soon.
38:57$15,215 on hand tonight.
39:01Sold out in Tampa for backlash.
39:06Iho Sky, Asuka, with his very personal rivalry underway.
39:12Back fist by Iho.
39:13Well, Iho's now got that second win.
39:15A couple of show-take uppercuts for good measure.
39:18And it is now Asuka who's starting to wobble.
39:23Universal now.
39:23Iho's sent into the corner.
39:25She'll slide out to the apron.
39:26Asuka misses wildly.
39:27And Iho Sky going to hang Asuka up on her arm.
39:30Well, Iho Sky suddenly looks good as new.
39:33And that does not bode well for Asuka at all.
39:37Genius of the Sky up top.
39:39Missile drop cap.
39:48Well, Iho Sky is as unorthodox as they come.
39:53But the people have fallen in love with this woman.
40:01What a train attack.
40:04And Asuka in a whole world of trouble here.
40:08Near fall for Iho Sky.
40:13And these pauses, when you put a flurry together like that,
40:17the pause afterwards, the kick out, the shock,
40:19is where your own body starts hurting once again.
40:23Iho has to block all of that out and keep her foot on the gas.
40:29Double underhook by Iho.
40:31Asuka, oh, and a backhand.
40:33Jeez.
40:34Combination of kicks and strikes by Asuka.
40:38There's a running knee by Asuka.
40:40Pop the kick, cover.
40:42Sky kicks out.
40:44Asuka just does it a little differently.
40:47A little strong style there from Asuka,
40:50who is starting to believe once again,
40:53think she's stifled that flurry from Iho Sky when he's back in the driver's seat.
40:58And now Asuka went for the kick, Iho Sky gonna roll her up, shoulders down.
41:02Another near fall.
41:04Iho quickly back to her feet, misses with a kick, caught on the backside.
41:08Iho again into the cover.
41:10And Asuka forced to kick out at two.
41:12The superior reactions at this point in the match from Iho Sky,
41:15who may well be operating on instinct,
41:19and that's a good place to be when you're as good as Iho Sky.
41:24Iho perhaps looking for a German suplex.
41:27Asuka able to grab the second rope.
41:29Use whatever you can do at this point in the match-up.
41:32Things are getting raggedy.
41:33German suplex into a bridge, cover.
41:35Kick out at two.
41:36Oh, what a transition.
41:37Asuka looking for an Asuka lock.
41:38Trying to take out Iho Sky.
41:40About as central in the ring as you could be, right on the logo.
41:44What does Iho have to do to get out of this now?
41:47Asuka turns it around.
41:48Scrambling for dear life, and Iho trying her best to get any form of leverage.
41:53Manage his hands.
41:54And caught Asuka with a kick.
41:56How much damage was done to that shoulder in the process of Iho Sky.
42:01Just shot for shot at this point.
42:04Whose reactions are quicker?
42:06Oh, there's the knee from Asuka.
42:12Just crazy levels of conditioning from both women, and unsurprisingly collapsing in a heap.
42:19And it really is up for grabs now.
42:21Yeah, turning point of a match-up with Asuka and Iho Sky.
42:30Both women known for being so hard-wearing, absorbing heavy-duty offense, and firing back in kind.
42:42Asuka dragging herself to her feet.
42:45Iho Sky as well.
42:46And Asuka, looking for the Asuka lock.
42:49Iho Sky trying to, she's got it in now.
42:52Asuka lock is in.
42:53Iho Sky's in trouble.
42:55Iho, Iho managing to navigate her way partially out at least.
42:59But not quite.
43:00It's a power struggle now.
43:02Asuka dragging her back to her feet.
43:05And Iho with a back elbow trying to create some separation.
43:10A little stunner action from Iho.
43:14Now's the time you've got to double down on that.
43:16Oh!
43:17Asuka caught her.
43:18Once again, it's those holds of Asuka.
43:21Arm bar applied.
43:23Iho Sky nowhere to go.
43:25That arm is fully extended.
43:26That elbow is about to pop.
43:28Yeah, center of the ring.
43:30Will Iho Sky tap out trying to turn things around?
43:32Iho able to do that.
43:34Now Iho Sky with a submission, but hold locked in.
43:39And it's Asuka in trouble now.
43:41Is Asuka going to tap out?
43:42Giving Asuka a taste of her own medicine, wrenching on that jaw,
43:46stretching the trapezius muscle.
43:50And Asuka is close to tapping here, Cole.
43:53Well, trying to drag herself to the bottom rope.
43:56Not quite there.
43:59And now she gets her foot on the bottom rope,
44:01and that's going to force a break by Iho.
44:03Just great resistance from Asuka.
44:06And it had to be by hook or by crook.
44:09Get out of the hole.
44:10Get to the ropes.
44:11But in a real bad way on the edge of the apron.
44:16And now it's Asuka trying to catch her breath.
44:19Back to the apron again.
44:21Iho Sky now going to climb the ropes.
44:23Yeah, well, this is Iho Sky's territory now.
44:25Oh, and Asuka!
44:25And Asuka knew it, a pull of the hair,
44:28smashed face first into that steel post again.
44:31And Asuka now takes control.
44:33Well, there are alarm bells going off in the mind of Asuka there,
44:36knowing full well what Iho is trying to conjure up on the ropes.
44:39Not where you want to be with a genius in the sky.
44:45And an uppercut once again knocking the stuffing out of the Empress of Tomorrow.
44:55And now Iho hammered away, Asuka.
44:58They're high above the ring.
45:01Hurricane Rana.
45:03Asuka now turns it into a pin.
45:05Almost had Iho.
45:07Kicks out.
45:07Oh, man, you could not get any closer to a victory.
45:11Referee was right in there on the button.
45:15And 2.9 and not enough.
45:18What a tremendous counter by Asuka.
45:20Oh, that was fantastic.
45:21But we've come to expect that level of talent and skill from Asuka.
45:26But can Asuka close this off now?
45:31Asuka misses Io Sky now.
45:33Driving Asuka out to the floor.
45:36The back of the head of Asuka just caught that middle rope in a bad way, too.
45:41Of course, that arm of Io Sky is causing a tremendous amount of trouble.
45:45You have to block that out now.
45:48Get refocused.
45:49Launch another assault.
45:51On the woman you just dropped to the outside.
45:54And here comes Io Sky.
45:56Asuka caught her with a forearm.
45:57Looking for the suicide dive.
45:59Completely baited Io Sky in on that one.
46:02And caught her at full momentum.
46:05And now Io Sky on the announce table.
46:09Asuka has her where she wants her.
46:11What type of damage is Asuka gonna do out here?
46:13Cleaning up our table now.
46:17This has got ugly in a hurry.
46:20Referee has really lost control here.
46:23Asuka's got a little count now to do as much damage as he can.
46:26Io able to block.
46:29Dangerous situation here for both these women.
46:35Asuka down.
46:35Went for the mist.
46:36And Io Sky grabbed your notepad, Wade.
46:39Your notebook.
46:40And uses the shield.
46:42It's about the smartest thing I've ever seen.
46:45Saving herself of the match.
46:48And the mist backfired on Asuka.
46:51And now Io Sky.
46:53Rumping Asuka on the announce table.
46:55What a brilliant move by Io.
46:58Well Asuka just played her ace.
47:00And it's bounced back in her face.
47:03And now Io off the announce table.
47:06Taking Asuka down.
47:07In your right.
47:08Asuka pulling out all the stops.
47:12Well that was Asuka's best shot at taking down Io.
47:17And Io had the answer.
47:22Io now.
47:26Up the second row.
47:27Moogzal takes Asuka down.
47:32This has got to be so.
47:34Feels so good for Io Sky.
47:36I'll tell you right now.
47:37Historically speaking.
47:39Once Io has this kind of momentum.
47:41Once Io has this kind of audience behind her.
47:44Very difficult to slow down from here.
47:48And Asuka with the mist.
47:49It backfired.
47:51Great resilience by Io Sky.
47:54Has Asuka where she wants her.
47:56Io.
47:57The genius of the sky now.
47:59Up to the top rope.
48:02Asuka moved out of harm's way.
48:04Grabs.
48:05Grabs Io.
48:07Just about gets Io locked in position.
48:09And that on-ball once again locked in.
48:12And Io's close to tapping.
48:15Asuka avoided Io's moonsault.
48:17And Io Sky now turns it into a pinning combination.
48:20Asuka still has everything locked in.
48:21Now looking for the Asuka lock.
48:22Center of the ring.
48:23Trying to get Io Sky to tap out.
48:25Io trying to hang on.
48:27I don't think that's a tap.
48:28She's just flailing away.
48:29Trying to stay in this.
48:29Oh, that was close to a tap out.
48:31Referee was having a look.
48:32It might be a pass out now.
48:35Fading rapidly is Io Sky.
48:37Trying to rally Io here.
48:39But Io may be out.
48:41She's out.
48:43Io may be out.
48:44In the Asuka lock.
48:45Able to turn it around.
48:46Shoulders down.
48:48Well, a sudden burst from Io just when it looked like it was over.
48:53But there's nothing left in the tank.
48:55Both women running on fumes.
48:59What a physical battle.
49:02As personal and emotional as it comes.
49:14True disdain for each other.
49:17Io Sky now getting the upper hand.
49:19Two women who simply cannot follow him.
49:21Losing this one.
49:22Oh!
49:23Release German by Asuka.
49:26Missed with a kick.
49:27Io Sky.
49:30For the German of her own.
49:32Here's one you taught me, Asuka.
49:34Thrown back in kind.
49:39Bullet train attack by Io.
49:43Oh God.
49:44In the drop zone, Cole.
49:47Asuka stunned by the bullet train attack.
49:51Io Sky.
49:53Top rope.
49:54Over the moonsault.
49:56Cover.
49:58Io Sky.
49:59Swayze her demon.
50:01Here is your winner, Io Sky.
50:11Absolutely insane performance from both women.
50:16Leaving it all on the mat tonight.
50:18But Io Sky with just enough edge to put down her former mentor.
50:25And how good must that feel for the genius of the Sky?
50:29But what a turning point this was, Cole.
50:32Dranaska going in for the miss.
50:33But the smarts of Io Sky with the notebook blocking the mist.
50:39Take another look at that.
50:41Just at the right moment, a shield blocking that poison.
50:45And then it was all Io from there.
50:48I noticed you had no notes on the notepad.
50:51Io Sky now with a bullet train attack.
50:53And had Asuka exactly where she wanted her for the brilliant over the moonsault.
50:59But that had to be cathartic for Io Sky.
51:22And Io with a show of respect.
51:24That had to be very difficult for Io having to take out Asuka like that.
51:32And an emotional Asuka tonight.
51:39Her former protégé, and it appears Asuka is extremely proud of what Io Sky has accomplished.
51:51What a match, Wade.
51:52Well, there's no way you can go through a match like that without earning each other's respect.
51:57And wow, to these two women.
51:59So impressive.
52:00And hats off to Io for the victory.
52:29Of all those women should be proud of what they accomplished.
52:32Accomplished here tonight.
52:49Ladies and gentlemen, a bunch of celebrities in the crowd right here tonight.
52:52Including members of the NHL's Tampa Bay Lightning.
52:56Having fun here tonight at Backlash.
53:00How about a godfather from Florida Championship Wrestling.
53:04Skinner, Steve Kern, a man who trained Wade Barrett.
53:07He's embarrassed about that.
53:08Don't mention it.
53:09In the house here tonight.
53:11Along with dangerous Dan Spivey.
53:14The important development in the career of the late great light.
53:18And there is Steve Kern, who we mentioned earlier.
53:20A godfather from FCW.
53:22And a man who trained one Wade Barrett.
53:26Well, I like you.
53:27Well, ladies and gentlemen, one of Zupa's boxing most recognizable names.
53:31Shane Mosley Jr.
53:32Makes his promotional debut against Sherry Moachuk.
53:35Tomorrow, another loaded lineup at Zupa 6.
53:38The co-main event sees a welterweight matchup between two East Coast Warriors.
53:41As New Jersey's Julian Hammerhands Rodriguez returns to Meta Apex.
53:46To take on undefeated Massachusetts native James Perella.
53:48Catch Zupa 06 live from Meta Apex at 9 p.m. Eastern.
53:516 p.m. Pacific exclusively on Paramount+.
53:57Ladies and gentlemen.
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