WSW Ignition: 2019 Grand Prix Night One (Episode 204) |
Promotion: World Series Wrestling |
Date: August 15, 2019 |
City: Houston, TX |
Venue: NRG Arena |
Attendance: 5,800 |
The 8/15 Ignition opened with a video package, set to No Regrets by KSHMR, the official theme of the 2019 Grand Prix.
The music started slow and cinematic – building strings with ambient echoes. Mauro Ranallo’s voice narrated the piece:
A dark, empty arena is shown. The arena lights illuminate. Crews setting up the ring. Slow-motion shots of turnbuckles being tightened and ropes being pulled taut are featured.
We hear the voice of AJ Styles, and the camera cuts to a sit-down interview:
As AJ speaks, we see highlights of last year’s tournament and AJ lifting the 2018 trophy – fans screaming in the background.
Mauro Ranallo’s narration is heard again:
Rapid cut highlights are shown: Ospreay flipping off the ropes, Castagnoli hitting a European uppercut, Bandido raising his arms in triumph.
We next hear the voice of Kenny Omega. We see his sit-down interview along with visuals of him landing V-Triggers and raising the World Title belt high:
The voice of Will Ospreay is heard, and we see visuals of him collapsing after a match, roaring in defiance, pacing alone backstage, tightening his wrist tape in silence.
Mauro’s narration:
Pulsing highlights are show – mat slaps, crowd gasps, and referees sliding into position. We hear the sound of an arena counting: 1.....2.......3.
Drone shots of the Cow Palace are shown, the California sun setting in the background.
Ricochet is featured next. We see him training alone in a gym:
Mauro’s narration:
A drone shot of Madison Square Garden is shown, the towering skyline of New York City in the background.
Adam Cole is featured. We see highlights of him superkicking opponents and hitting the Last Shot.
Claudio Castagnoli is featured. We see highlights of him winning the WSW World Championship in 2015, transitioning to highlights of him brutalizing opponents with uppercuts, gutwrench suplexes, and Ricola Bombs.
Jon Moxley is featured. We see him walking down a dark hallway. We see close ups of his scarred knuckles.
A spotlight shines on the Grand Prix trophy sitting in the middle of an empty ring. Mauro’s narration is heard one final time:
The video package ends with the last note of No Regrets. The camera then hard cuts inside the NRG Arena where pyro EXPLODES on stage.
The camera sweeps the sold-out crowd, as our commentary duo of Mauro Ranallo and Chael Sonnen welcome us to the show:
The camera cut to the ring, where Justin Roberts raised the microphone:
Match One: A Block - “The Aerial Assassin” Will Ospreay (0-0; 0 points) vs. Ricochet (0-0; 0 points)
The first match of Ignition was an A Block match between Will Ospreay and Ricochet. The crowd was electric as both men made their entrance. Ranallo and Sonnen offered their thoughts:
The Houston crowd roared with excitement as both men met in the center of the ring. A respectful handshake drew a cheer – this was a bout built on honor and competition. Both fan favorites, Ospreay and Ricochet were cheered loudly, with the crowd just slightly louder for Ospreay.
The two men circled and locked up. They launched into a slick chain wrestling sequence – wristlocks, headlocks, and counters ensued – ending with both men kipping to their feet in a stalemate and applause.
A second exchange ramped up the pace: lightning-fast reversals, flips, rolls, and escapes. Ospreay got the better of it, hitting a tijeras followed by a smooth arm drag that sent Ricochet down. He rolled to the outside and slapped the apron in frustration.
Ospreay ran the ropes...springboard off the middle rope......
Ospreay FLIPPED back into the center of the ring, faking the dive. He struck his iconic superhero pose in the center of the ring. He yelled:
Ricochet nodded, smirking at the challenge as he reentered the ring.
What followed was breathtaking – an acrobatic rope-running sequence full of mirrored movement: dodges, kip-ups, and split-second reactions. The audience rose to their feet, erupting for the insane speed and athleticism.
Ricochet caught Ospreay mid-handspring and tried for a German Suplex – but Ospreay flipped over in mid-air, landing on his feet. In an instant, Ricochet popped him with a Pele Kick that connected flush to the jaw, sending Ospreay tumbling through the ropes to the floor.
Without missing a beat, Ricochet soared.....
SPACE FLYING TIGER DROP!
Ricochet twisted through the air with picture-perfect rotation!
The two men circled and locked up. They launched into a slick chain wrestling sequence – wristlocks, headlocks, and counters ensued – ending with both men kipping to their feet in a stalemate and applause.
A second exchange ramped up the pace: lightning-fast reversals, flips, rolls, and escapes. Ospreay got the better of it, hitting a tijeras followed by a smooth arm drag that sent Ricochet down. He rolled to the outside and slapped the apron in frustration.
Ospreay ran the ropes...springboard off the middle rope......
Ospreay FLIPPED back into the center of the ring, faking the dive. He struck his iconic superhero pose in the center of the ring. He yelled:
Ricochet nodded, smirking at the challenge as he reentered the ring.
What followed was breathtaking – an acrobatic rope-running sequence full of mirrored movement: dodges, kip-ups, and split-second reactions. The audience rose to their feet, erupting for the insane speed and athleticism.
Ricochet caught Ospreay mid-handspring and tried for a German Suplex – but Ospreay flipped over in mid-air, landing on his feet. In an instant, Ricochet popped him with a Pele Kick that connected flush to the jaw, sending Ospreay tumbling through the ropes to the floor.
Without missing a beat, Ricochet soared.....
SPACE FLYING TIGER DROP!
Ricochet twisted through the air with picture-perfect rotation!
Justin Roberts made the first time call of the match:
Back inside, Ricochet hit a slingshot senton and scored the first 2-count of the match. Ricochet followed with a flurry of offense – combination strikes, a leaping neckbreaker, and a middle rope blockbuster!
1....
2......................
Kick Out!
Ricochet kept his foot on the gas. He tried for a hurricanrana, but Ospreay blocked at the last second and hoisted him up for a powerbomb....
Ricochet escaped and countered with a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK POWERBOMB!
1....
2...........
Kick Out!
On commentary:
Ricochet went for the Benadryller, but Ospreay countered with a DDT!
With the crowd cheering singing his name, Ospreay caught his second wind...CORKSCREW KICK!
1....
2.................
Kick Out!
Ricochet rolled out to the apron, and Ospreay followed. Ricochet ducked a roundhouse kick and attempted a half-and-half suplex on the apron, but Ospreay escaped the grasp with a stiff back elbow.
Ospreay landed a superkick...followed by ANOTHER superkick!
Ospreay charged down the apron, but Ricochet hoisted him up into a fireman’s carry.........
DEATH VALLEY DRIVER ON THE APRON!
The crowd gasped as Ospreay flopped to the floor.
In a stunning moment, Ricochet followed.....
SHOOTING STAR PRESS OFF THE APRON TO THE FLOOR!
Back inside, Ricochet hit a slingshot senton and scored the first 2-count of the match. Ricochet followed with a flurry of offense – combination strikes, a leaping neckbreaker, and a middle rope blockbuster!
1....
2......................
Kick Out!
Ricochet kept his foot on the gas. He tried for a hurricanrana, but Ospreay blocked at the last second and hoisted him up for a powerbomb....
Ricochet escaped and countered with a DOUBLE UNDERHOOK POWERBOMB!
1....
2...........
Kick Out!
On commentary:
Ricochet went for the Benadryller, but Ospreay countered with a DDT!
With the crowd cheering singing his name, Ospreay caught his second wind...CORKSCREW KICK!
1....
2.................
Kick Out!
Ricochet rolled out to the apron, and Ospreay followed. Ricochet ducked a roundhouse kick and attempted a half-and-half suplex on the apron, but Ospreay escaped the grasp with a stiff back elbow.
Ospreay landed a superkick...followed by ANOTHER superkick!
Ospreay charged down the apron, but Ricochet hoisted him up into a fireman’s carry.........
DEATH VALLEY DRIVER ON THE APRON!
The crowd gasped as Ospreay flopped to the floor.
In a stunning moment, Ricochet followed.....
SHOOTING STAR PRESS OFF THE APRON TO THE FLOOR!
Back in the ring, Ricochet hit a SPRINGBOARD 450! Cover!
1...
2...................
No!
Ospreay refused to stay down! Ricochet gritted his teeth and stayed on the attack. He lifted Ospreay for Vertigo, but Ospreay countered with a stunner!
Ospreay sprang to the ropes......OSCUTTER!
1......
2...........................
Kick Out!
Ospreay sat up, and he slowly yanked off his elbow pad. He signaled for the Hidden Blade..........
He charged.........................
RICOCHET COUNTERED WITH A LIGHTNING-FAST SPANISH FLY!
BOTH MEN WERE DOWN!
The crowd buzzed and clapped in rhythm. At the count of eight, they rose and met in the center of the ring. A furious strike exchange followed – chops led to back-and-forth forearms.
Ricochet and Ospreay TEED off, and the crowd got hotter as each strike landed.
Ospreay roared and hit a MONSTER forearm that dropped Ricochet. He positioned him for the Stormbreaker, but Ricochet drove Ospreay into the corner to prevent the move. Leaping head kick from Ricochet – he charged for a shotgun dropkick.....
BAM!
OSPREAY BEHEADED HIM WITH A HIDDEN BLADE OUT OF NOWHERE!
RICOCHET FOLDED IN HALF ON THE CANVAS!
1.....
2.................................
3.................................................................
Will Ospreay (13:40)
Will Ospreay: 2 Points (1-0) | Ricochet: 0 Points (0-1)
Will Ospreay: 2 Points (1-0) | Ricochet: 0 Points (0-1)
Both men were over as babyfaces and the crowd clearly knew about their previous matches on the independents throughout the years. The treated this like a big fight from the opening bell.
Match had a clean, escalating rhythm. The acrobatic rope-running exchange and Spanish Fly counter got the loudest reaction.
The Hidden Black was executed with maximum shock value – we really want to get this move over.
Overall, a fantastic tone-setter for the Grand Prix – an exciting, clean babyface vs. babyface match that delivered with athleticism. The crowd was super hot.
Match had a clean, escalating rhythm. The acrobatic rope-running exchange and Spanish Fly counter got the loudest reaction.
The Hidden Black was executed with maximum shock value – we really want to get this move over.
Overall, a fantastic tone-setter for the Grand Prix – an exciting, clean babyface vs. babyface match that delivered with athleticism. The crowd was super hot.
As the bell rang and the referee raised Will Ospreay’s hand, the Houston crowd stood and cheered.
Ricochet remained on the mat, dazed, clutching the side of his head and neck. The impact of the Hidden Blade clearly rattled him – his eyes blinked slowly, chest heaving.
Ospreay climbed the ropes, throwing his arms wide to a roar from the crowd. He pointed to the Grand Prix logo on the screen and then to himself – 2 points earned.
As Ospreay dropped from the turnbuckles, Ricochet made it to one knee. He looked up, foggy but focused, locking eyes with Ospreay across the ring.
The tension held for just a beat.
Ospreay gave a nod – nothing flashy, just a silent acknowledgement of the war they’d just fought. Ricochet nodded back faintly. No handshake. No pose. Just respect between warriors.
Mauro Ranallo said:
Ricochet remained on the mat, dazed, clutching the side of his head and neck. The impact of the Hidden Blade clearly rattled him – his eyes blinked slowly, chest heaving.
Ospreay climbed the ropes, throwing his arms wide to a roar from the crowd. He pointed to the Grand Prix logo on the screen and then to himself – 2 points earned.
As Ospreay dropped from the turnbuckles, Ricochet made it to one knee. He looked up, foggy but focused, locking eyes with Ospreay across the ring.
The tension held for just a beat.
Ospreay gave a nod – nothing flashy, just a silent acknowledgement of the war they’d just fought. Ricochet nodded back faintly. No handshake. No pose. Just respect between warriors.
Mauro Ranallo said:
A vignette on the Death Busters aired.
The package opened with grainy black-and-white footage of the World Tag Team Championship match from last week. We see split-second flashes of the match finish:
- Wilder biting Davey Boy’s head
- Dawson low-blowing Teddy Hart
- Wilder hitting the poisonrana on Davey Boy
- The avalanche Fall of the Axe on Teddy Hart
- 1...2...3 - the Death Busters retain the belts and win the rubber match with The Hart Foundation.
The camera fades to color, and we see a black Dodge Ram pickup truck drive down a two-lane highlight. Dawson is driving and Wilder rides shotgun. Both wear shades, and the WSW World Tag Team Titles rest on the dashboard. In the backseat, we see two leather jackets with the Black Arrow logo on the sleeve.
Dawson (voiceover):
Wilder (voiceover):
Dawson (voiceover):
Highlights are shown of the Death Busters wrenching limbs, hitting double-teams, and having their hands raised in victory.
Wilder (voiceover):
Dawson (voiceover):
Rapid cut highlights are shown of the Death Busters hitting the Fall of the Axe on multiple opponents.
Dawson (voiceover):
The package ends with a shot of the black truck driving off into the horizon.
Highlights are shown of the history between Adam Cole and Bobby Lashley. We see:
- Adam Cole win the Intercontinental Championship in a three-way at Seize the Day in April. He was aided by Dawson & Wilder who put Lashley through a table during the match. Cole won the belt, despite not pinning Lashley (the champion coming in).
- We see Lashley and Cole meet in a steel cage match at Undisputed for the Intercontinental Title.
- We see a bloody Cole put down Lashley with a Last Shot with a chain wrapped around his knee. After the match, Dawson, Wilder & Cole pillmanized the arm of Arn Anderson and the leg of Bobby Lashley.
- We see Lashley’s return two weeks ago. He has declared that he came back for two reasons – choke out Adam Cole and win the Grand Prix. He makes his return to the ring for the first time in thirteen weeks tonight.
Match Two: B Block – Adam Cole (0-0; 0 points) vs. Bobby Lashley (0-0; 0 points)
The second match of Ignition was a B Block match between Adam Cole and Bobby Lashley.
As soon as the bell rang, Adam Cole bailed to the outside, smirking as the crowd booed. Lashley stayed centered, eyes locked on him.
Slowly but surely, Cole climbed the ring steps and reentered. Lashley approached....
And Cole bailed outside again!
Lashley had enough. He exited the ring and gave chase.
Cole dove back inside to stay one step ahead. As Lashley got onto the apron, Cole booted him off. Cole followed to the outside, landing a sharp kick to the taped-up elbow that caused Lashley to wince.
Cole tried to whip Lashley into the steel steps, but Lashley cut him off with a sudden release overhead belly-to-belly suplex on the floor!
Lashley pulled him up, only to drive him back onto the floor mats with a German suplex!
Lashley rolled Cole inside the ring, noticeably shaking out his right elbow.
Slowly but surely, Cole climbed the ring steps and reentered. Lashley approached....
And Cole bailed outside again!
Lashley had enough. He exited the ring and gave chase.
Cole dove back inside to stay one step ahead. As Lashley got onto the apron, Cole booted him off. Cole followed to the outside, landing a sharp kick to the taped-up elbow that caused Lashley to wince.
Cole tried to whip Lashley into the steel steps, but Lashley cut him off with a sudden release overhead belly-to-belly suplex on the floor!
Lashley pulled him up, only to drive him back onto the floor mats with a German suplex!
Lashley rolled Cole inside the ring, noticeably shaking out his right elbow.
Back inside, Lashley hit two more German suplexes. Cole was tossed like a ragdoll! Lashley looked for the kill shot early, he sized up Cole, charged for the Spear........
Cole dodged and Lashley CRASHED shoulder-first into the steel ring post!
Mauro Ranallo exclaimed:
Cole pounced – he wrenched the arm over the top rope, snapping the elbow across it a couple times. With the arm draped over the rope, Cole hit a superkick to the joint!
Lashley staggered out of the corner, and Cole followed with a bicycle kick, enziguri, and a backstabber! Cover!
1....
Kick Out!
Cole didn’t let the sudden kick out phase him. He ripped off the elbow tape and began choking Lashley with it! The crowd booed, as Cole spewed venom:
The referee reached the count of 4 and then wrestled the tape out of Adam Cole’s hands, threatening him with a DQ. Cole went nose to nose with the referee before shoving him out the way to stomp on Lashley’s elbow! Cole stomped down repeatedly, then grinded his knee into the joint, isolating the elbow. The crowd booed.
Chael Sonnen said:
Cole dodged and Lashley CRASHED shoulder-first into the steel ring post!
Mauro Ranallo exclaimed:
Cole pounced – he wrenched the arm over the top rope, snapping the elbow across it a couple times. With the arm draped over the rope, Cole hit a superkick to the joint!
Lashley staggered out of the corner, and Cole followed with a bicycle kick, enziguri, and a backstabber! Cover!
1....
Kick Out!
Cole didn’t let the sudden kick out phase him. He ripped off the elbow tape and began choking Lashley with it! The crowd booed, as Cole spewed venom:
The referee reached the count of 4 and then wrestled the tape out of Adam Cole’s hands, threatening him with a DQ. Cole went nose to nose with the referee before shoving him out the way to stomp on Lashley’s elbow! Cole stomped down repeatedly, then grinded his knee into the joint, isolating the elbow. The crowd booed.
Chael Sonnen said:
Cole pulled his hair back and backed into the corner. He went for the Last Shot.......
LASHLEY EXPLODED OFF THE MAT WITH A SPEAR! HE BLASTED COLE!
Lashley, wincing and favoring his arm, grabbed back control. He applied the seatbelt grip and went for the Head and Arm Choke in the center of the ring!
Cole flailed! He grabbed Lashley’s gigantic arm to prevent the submission, but Lashley got the choke applied!
Cole flailed in a panic! In a last bit of desperation, Cole reached up.........
HE DUG HIS FINGERS INTO THE EYES OF LASHLEY!
Lashley screamed in pain, but he didn’t let go!
With a SNARL, Lashley rolled to his side and cinched the choke in tighter!
Cole went limp!
The referee called for the bell!
LASHLEY EXPLODED OFF THE MAT WITH A SPEAR! HE BLASTED COLE!
Lashley, wincing and favoring his arm, grabbed back control. He applied the seatbelt grip and went for the Head and Arm Choke in the center of the ring!
Cole flailed! He grabbed Lashley’s gigantic arm to prevent the submission, but Lashley got the choke applied!
Cole flailed in a panic! In a last bit of desperation, Cole reached up.........
HE DUG HIS FINGERS INTO THE EYES OF LASHLEY!
Lashley screamed in pain, but he didn’t let go!
With a SNARL, Lashley rolled to his side and cinched the choke in tighter!
Cole went limp!
The referee called for the bell!
Bobby Lashley (5:03)
Bobby Lashley 2 Points (1-0) | Adam Cole 0 Points (0-1)
Bobby Lashley 2 Points (1-0) | Adam Cole 0 Points (0-1)
This match was designed hit a narrative goal: reestablish Lashley as a monster, but maintain Cole’s identity as a cerebral, manipulative, entitled heel. We will use the bone spurs in the elbow as a legit story telling device throughout the Grand Prix. Lashley is an interesting character, and since his arrival in WSW, we have always leaned into his MMA background rather than pro wrestling.
This was a quick match that designed to feel like a fight.
This was a quick match that designed to feel like a fight.
Lashley released the hold and shoved Cole’s body down in disgust. He walked to the ropes, clutching his elbow. Fire burned inside his eyes as he looked at Adam Cole, who rolled to the outside – putting as much distance between himself and Lashley as possible.
As Ignition returned from commercial, the camera panned to the commentary team on stage.
The announcers then threw it to a video package, hyping the AJ Styles/Austin Aries match.
The package opened with AJ Styles, calm and confident, sitting in a black leather chair.
Clips of early WSW moments air: Aries vs. Styles from 2015.
The camera cuts to Austin Aries, who is intense and speaks with a bitterness in his voice.
Clips of AJ Styles winning titles and fans chanting his name are shown as Aries speaks.
Cut back to AJ Styles.
Cut back to Austin Aries.
Match Three: A Block - Austin Aries (0-0; 0 points) vs. “The Phenomenal” AJ Styles (0-0; 0 points)
The third match of Ignition was A Block action between Austin Aries and AJ Styles. Aries entered to a chorus of boos from the Houston crowd.
The bell rang and the two circled slowly. The crowd loudly chanted:
They locked up. Aries grabbed a wristlock, but Styles quickly reversed into a hammerlock. Aries transitioned to a side headlock. Styles shot him into the ropes and went for his patented dropkick – but Aries hooked the top rope to stop his momentum, and Styles landed on the mat.
Aries charged, but Styles hit a backdrop; however, Aries flipped in mid-air and landed on his feet! Styles fired a stiff back elbow into the jaw, hit the ropes, but Aries caught him with a dropkick! The impact sent Style sprawling through the ropes to the floor.
TOPE SUICIDA!
Aries wasted no time – he flew like a missile and CRASHED into Styles with lightning-quick precision.
Aries whipped Styles back first into the ring apron, and then he whipped him into the steel steps with a loud CLANG!
They locked up. Aries grabbed a wristlock, but Styles quickly reversed into a hammerlock. Aries transitioned to a side headlock. Styles shot him into the ropes and went for his patented dropkick – but Aries hooked the top rope to stop his momentum, and Styles landed on the mat.
Aries charged, but Styles hit a backdrop; however, Aries flipped in mid-air and landed on his feet! Styles fired a stiff back elbow into the jaw, hit the ropes, but Aries caught him with a dropkick! The impact sent Style sprawling through the ropes to the floor.
TOPE SUICIDA!
Aries wasted no time – he flew like a missile and CRASHED into Styles with lightning-quick precision.
Aries whipped Styles back first into the ring apron, and then he whipped him into the steel steps with a loud CLANG!
Back inside, Aries charged – but Styles used his momentum against him and hoisted Aries into a fireman’s carry. Aries elbowed free and immediately tried the Brainbuster, but Styles blocked it. Styles tried to counter – hoisting Aries up for a vertical suplex, but Aries kneed him in the head as he was lifted, breaking free.
Aries let loose with elbow strikes to the head. He tried to cap his dizzying flurry with the Rolling Elbow, but Styles cut him off with BRUTAL forearm shot!
Styles followed with a spinning backfist!
Styles went for a discus lariat, but Aries countered with a crucifix bomb.......
NO!
Styles blocked it and transitioned into a Ushigoroshi!
1....
2.......
Kick Out!
Justin Roberts:
On commentary, Mauro Ranallo said:
Styles went for the Styles Clash, but Aries grabbed the ropes to prevent the move. Aries raked the eyes to create some separation. He hit the ropes and charged, but Styles elevated him up and over the ropes – all the way to the floor!
Styles followed with a slingshot plancha that connected perfectly!
Styles threw Aries back inside and positioned himself on the apron. He vaulted to the top rope.....
PHENOMENAL FOREARM...........
NO!
Aries swept his legs mid-springboard and AJ Styles CRASHED onto the apron in a NASTY LANDING!
Styles fell to the floor in pain. Aries leaned against the ropes with a sick smile and he urged the referee to begin the 20 count.
....5........6...........7...........8........
Grabbing the ring skirt, Styles pulled himself to his feet at the count of 9. He grabbed at his lower back.
Aries realized the count out wasn’t happening, so he hit the ropes and sprinted – looking for another tope suicida.......
BUT STYLES SPRUNG TO THE TOP ROPE......
PHENOMENAL FOREARM!
COVER!
1......
2...............................
KICK OUT!
Aries let loose with elbow strikes to the head. He tried to cap his dizzying flurry with the Rolling Elbow, but Styles cut him off with BRUTAL forearm shot!
Styles followed with a spinning backfist!
Styles went for a discus lariat, but Aries countered with a crucifix bomb.......
NO!
Styles blocked it and transitioned into a Ushigoroshi!
1....
2.......
Kick Out!
Justin Roberts:
On commentary, Mauro Ranallo said:
Styles went for the Styles Clash, but Aries grabbed the ropes to prevent the move. Aries raked the eyes to create some separation. He hit the ropes and charged, but Styles elevated him up and over the ropes – all the way to the floor!
Styles followed with a slingshot plancha that connected perfectly!
Styles threw Aries back inside and positioned himself on the apron. He vaulted to the top rope.....
PHENOMENAL FOREARM...........
NO!
Aries swept his legs mid-springboard and AJ Styles CRASHED onto the apron in a NASTY LANDING!
Styles fell to the floor in pain. Aries leaned against the ropes with a sick smile and he urged the referee to begin the 20 count.
....5........6...........7...........8........
Grabbing the ring skirt, Styles pulled himself to his feet at the count of 9. He grabbed at his lower back.
Aries realized the count out wasn’t happening, so he hit the ropes and sprinted – looking for another tope suicida.......
BUT STYLES SPRUNG TO THE TOP ROPE......
PHENOMENAL FOREARM!
COVER!
1......
2...............................
KICK OUT!
Grabbing at his back, Styles went for the Styles Clash again, but Aries blocked. With sheer power, AJ jerked him up for a powerbomb, but Aries countered with a hurricanrana that sent Styles tumbling into the corner.
SHOTGUN DROPKICK FROM ARIES!
BRAINBUSTER!
1......
2.................................
KICK OUT!
Aries wasted no time. As soon as Styles kicked out, he transitioned to the Last Chancery!
Aries bridged back on the submission and screamed at Styles:
Styles struggled. He gritted his teeth and dug into the cerulean, blue canvas with his elbows and the toes of his boots.
Reaching.....
Clawing.........
Styles got his foot on the bottom rope!
Aries pounded on the back of Styles with short, violent headbutts. He turned Styles over and climbed to the top rope.
450 SPLASH.........
NO!
Styles rolled out the way, but Aries landed on his feet and rolled through!
Styles climbed to his feet, clutching his back. Aries stayed on the attack......
SHOTGUN DROPKICK!
STYLES DODGED!
ARIES CRASHED INTO THE TURNBUCKLES! HE LANDED IN A SEATED POSITION ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE!
PELE KICK FROM STYLES!
Aries slumped down out of the corner, and Styles pulled him up........
STYLES CLASH!
1....
2..................
3.................................................
SHOTGUN DROPKICK FROM ARIES!
BRAINBUSTER!
1......
2.................................
KICK OUT!
Aries wasted no time. As soon as Styles kicked out, he transitioned to the Last Chancery!
Aries bridged back on the submission and screamed at Styles:
Styles struggled. He gritted his teeth and dug into the cerulean, blue canvas with his elbows and the toes of his boots.
Reaching.....
Clawing.........
Styles got his foot on the bottom rope!
Aries pounded on the back of Styles with short, violent headbutts. He turned Styles over and climbed to the top rope.
450 SPLASH.........
NO!
Styles rolled out the way, but Aries landed on his feet and rolled through!
Styles climbed to his feet, clutching his back. Aries stayed on the attack......
SHOTGUN DROPKICK!
STYLES DODGED!
ARIES CRASHED INTO THE TURNBUCKLES! HE LANDED IN A SEATED POSITION ON THE TOP TURNBUCKLE!
PELE KICK FROM STYLES!
Aries slumped down out of the corner, and Styles pulled him up........
STYLES CLASH!
1....
2..................
3.................................................
AJ Styles (9:30)
AJ Styles 2 Points (1-0) | Austin Aries 0 Points (0-1)
AJ Styles 2 Points (1-0) | Austin Aries 0 Points (0-1)
This match did a strong job without overstaying its welcome. This was a strong, clean, technically sound match that you would expect out of these two.
We wanted to tell the story of familiarity since these guys have been with us from day one, and they have wrestled countless times in the past. This match was all about familiarity and counters.
Well worked by both men.
We wanted to tell the story of familiarity since these guys have been with us from day one, and they have wrestled countless times in the past. This match was all about familiarity and counters.
Well worked by both men.
As the bell rang and the referee raised AJ Styles’s hand, the crowd roared in approval – firmly behind the Phenomenal One. Styles caught his breath, hand pressed to his back.
Austin Aries rolled out the ring, dazed and frustrated. He kicked the ring steps and sat on the floor mats on the outside. Styles saluted the crowd and glanced towards Aries on the outside – not with arrogance, but awareness. Fourteen years of history from the independents, TNA, and now WSW...another chapter in their story was written.
Styles pointed to the Grand Prix scoreboard on stage, 2 points earned, and the long road to November Reign had begun.
Austin Aries rolled out the ring, dazed and frustrated. He kicked the ring steps and sat on the floor mats on the outside. Styles saluted the crowd and glanced towards Aries on the outside – not with arrogance, but awareness. Fourteen years of history from the independents, TNA, and now WSW...another chapter in their story was written.
Styles pointed to the Grand Prix scoreboard on stage, 2 points earned, and the long road to November Reign had begun.
A vignette featuring Tessa Blanchard aired.
A slow-motion aerial shot of Miami Beach opened the piece – the scene was crystal blue water, palm trees swaying in the wind, sunlight glinting off glass skyscrapers. The camera panned into the top floor of a sleek, oceanfront penthouse.
Inside, Tessa Blanchard reclined on a modern, black leather couch. She wore a crisp white designer blazer over a red silk blouse, adorned with gleaming jewelry. The WSW Women’s World Championship glistened on a marble coffee table in front of her – its gold plates reflecting the ocean sunlight.
Two sharply dressed butlers poured champagne into a crystal flute on a silver tray and handed it to her. She accepted with a smirk.
Blanchard leaned back, calm and cold:
Quick highlights are shown of Blanchard’s title defenses – destroying opponents with the Buzzsaw DDT and standing tall with her arms raised.
A sharp cut is made to Blanchard standing in the middle of a ring, championship held high as fans boo.
Shots of past opponents being pinned and lying crushed in defeat are shown.
The camera cuts to slow-motion footage of Deonna Purrazzo hitting suplexes, locking in the Fujiwara Armbar and tapping out both Tenille Dashwood and Nixon Newell.
Tessa laughed softly, shaking her head.
Tessa stood and walked slowly through the penthouse. Her heels clicked on the marble floor. The camera followed her out onto the sunlit balcony overlooking the turquoise water below.
She stretched her arms out wide, the wind gently blowing through her raven colored hair.
Blanchard turned towards the camera.
The camera zoomed in slowly as Blanchard smiled with venomous confidence.
The camera cut to a shot of the Women’s World Title, glimmering in the sun. As we see the belt, we hear Tessa’s voice.
Match Four: A Block – Bandido (0-0; 0 Points) vs. Kenny Omega (0-0; 0 Points)
The fourth match of Ignition was an A Block match between Bandido and Kenny Omega. Bandido received a strong reaction from the Houston crowd, and they EXPLODED for the arrival of the WSW World Champion, Kenny Omega. As pyro exploded around the champion, our commentary duo said:
Before the bell, the camera panned to a VIP area of NRG Arena, where RUSH and Dragon Lee were shown in sharp suits, watching intently. Mauro noted:
The two men shook hands in the center of the ring, sharing a respectful nod before launching into a grappling exchange. The two men moved with elite speed and quickness, until Omega landed a snap hurricanrana that spiked Bandido right on his head!
Bandido rolled to the outside. Fired up, Omega began to rhythmically beat on the canvas, already calling for the Rise of the Terminator. He hit the ropes and charged, but quick as a cat, Bandido slid into the ring and cut him off with a hurricanrana of his own!
This time, it was Omega’s time to roll outside and regroup. Bandido didn’t give him one second to breathe....
CANNONBALL TOPE SUICIDA!
Bandido hit with so much force he nearly flew into the first row! Bandido slapped hands with fans at ringside before rolling Omega back inside. He hit a dropkick and three HARD chops that drove the World Champion into the corner.
Bandido charged, but Omega elevated him up – intending to send him over the ropes. However, in a freakish display of balance, Bandido did a headstand on the top turnbuckle – his feet pointed directly to the sky. Bandido slung his legs down and caught Omega with a high revolution tijeras!
Omega tumbled through the ropes to the floor. Bandido went to the apron and leapt off for another hurricanrana, but Omega CAUGHT him mid-air.......
POWERBOMB ONTO THE RAMP!
Bandido’s body bounced from the impact, and he landed with a sick THUD!
Omega rolled back inside, and the referee began the 20 Count. At the count of 8, Bandido got to his feet, grabbing at his back.......
RISE OF THE TERMINATOR!
OMEGA FLEW AND DRILLED BANDIDO!
The two men shook hands in the center of the ring, sharing a respectful nod before launching into a grappling exchange. The two men moved with elite speed and quickness, until Omega landed a snap hurricanrana that spiked Bandido right on his head!
Bandido rolled to the outside. Fired up, Omega began to rhythmically beat on the canvas, already calling for the Rise of the Terminator. He hit the ropes and charged, but quick as a cat, Bandido slid into the ring and cut him off with a hurricanrana of his own!
This time, it was Omega’s time to roll outside and regroup. Bandido didn’t give him one second to breathe....
CANNONBALL TOPE SUICIDA!
Bandido hit with so much force he nearly flew into the first row! Bandido slapped hands with fans at ringside before rolling Omega back inside. He hit a dropkick and three HARD chops that drove the World Champion into the corner.
Bandido charged, but Omega elevated him up – intending to send him over the ropes. However, in a freakish display of balance, Bandido did a headstand on the top turnbuckle – his feet pointed directly to the sky. Bandido slung his legs down and caught Omega with a high revolution tijeras!
Omega tumbled through the ropes to the floor. Bandido went to the apron and leapt off for another hurricanrana, but Omega CAUGHT him mid-air.......
POWERBOMB ONTO THE RAMP!
Bandido’s body bounced from the impact, and he landed with a sick THUD!
Omega rolled back inside, and the referee began the 20 Count. At the count of 8, Bandido got to his feet, grabbing at his back.......
RISE OF THE TERMINATOR!
OMEGA FLEW AND DRILLED BANDIDO!
Back inside, Omega hit the Kotaru Crusher for the first 2 count of the match. Omega went after Bandido’s back. He hit a backbreaker and followed with a Camel Clutch!
Omega leaned back, and Mauro Ranallo said:
Bandido reached for the ropes, but Omega grabbed the arm and pulled it across the masked luchador’s face – forcing him to crossface himself!
Bandido wiggled and twisted – doing anything to escape Omega’s grasp. Losing his grip, Omega rolled the submission and transitioned to a cross-arm bar; however, Bandido clutched his hands together to prevent the arm extension. Fighting the submission, and digging his toes into the canvas, Bandido stacked Omega up, pinning his shoulders to the mat....
1....
2......
Kick Out!
Omega stomped on Bandido’s back, but the luchador fired back with chops. Bandido hit the ropes, looking to pick up the pace, but Omega cut him off with a kitchen sink knee. Omega followed with You Can’t Escape. Cover!
1....
2.......
Kick Out!
Omega kept pouring it on – high angle back suplex for another 2 count!
Omega chopped Bandido hard – the strike echoed throughout the NRG Arena. The chop seemingly woke up Bandido though, and he responded with several chops of his own. With a primal roar, Omega fired back with machine gun chops!
Omega’s hand blistered the chest of Bandido – sweat misted in the air with each blow!
Omega whipped Bandido into the ropes, but Bandido rebounded with a back handspring elbow! Pop Up Cutter followed!
Omega staggered to his feet in the corner. Bandido SMASHED into the World Champion with running double knees. He unleashed with a lightning-fast strike combination – forearm, chops, and a gamenguri kick to the skull! He took Omage up top, looking for a superplex. Omega fought back, trying to block the move, but Bandido pounding him with sharp elbow strikes. Bandido grabbed Omega and took him off the top....
REVOLUTION FLY!
1.....
2.................................
KICK OUT!
Bandido lifted Omega up, looking for the gorilla press....but Omega escaped! He hooked Bandido – Snap Dragon.......
NO!
Bandido countered with a modified jawbreaker!
Bandido lifted Omega...GORILLA PRESS!
Bandido walked around the ring with the World Champion overhead. He brought the crowd to its feet, by transitioning to a ONE-HANDED lift!
Bandido dropped Omega, who crashed on the canvas. The World Champion rolled out to the apron, but Bandido stayed on the attack.
DOUBLE SPRINGBOARD DROPKICK!
Bandido showcased INSANE body control, drilling Omega off the apron to the floor. With the crowd chanting his name, Bandido vaulted himself to the top.......
TORNILLO DIVE!
The Houston crowd roared:
Justin Roberts announced:
Back inside, Bandido positioned Omega for the 21 Plex. He backed up and charged for the finisher....
V-TRIGGER!
SNAP DRAGON!
ANOTHER SNAP DRAGON!
A THIRD SNAP DRAGON!
Omega lifted Bandido for the One Winged Angel.........
BANDIDO COUNTERED WITH A POISION RANA!
With the crowd standing and clapping, both men rose:
V-Trigger from Omega! Bandido fell into the ropes and rebounded with a superkick! Omega fell into the ropes and rebounded with another V-Trigger! Bandido rebounded back....SIMULTANEOUS CLOTHESLINES!
BOTH MEN WENT DOWN!
The crowd EXPLODED!
Omega leaned back, and Mauro Ranallo said:
Bandido reached for the ropes, but Omega grabbed the arm and pulled it across the masked luchador’s face – forcing him to crossface himself!
Bandido wiggled and twisted – doing anything to escape Omega’s grasp. Losing his grip, Omega rolled the submission and transitioned to a cross-arm bar; however, Bandido clutched his hands together to prevent the arm extension. Fighting the submission, and digging his toes into the canvas, Bandido stacked Omega up, pinning his shoulders to the mat....
1....
2......
Kick Out!
Omega stomped on Bandido’s back, but the luchador fired back with chops. Bandido hit the ropes, looking to pick up the pace, but Omega cut him off with a kitchen sink knee. Omega followed with You Can’t Escape. Cover!
1....
2.......
Kick Out!
Omega kept pouring it on – high angle back suplex for another 2 count!
Omega chopped Bandido hard – the strike echoed throughout the NRG Arena. The chop seemingly woke up Bandido though, and he responded with several chops of his own. With a primal roar, Omega fired back with machine gun chops!
Omega’s hand blistered the chest of Bandido – sweat misted in the air with each blow!
Omega whipped Bandido into the ropes, but Bandido rebounded with a back handspring elbow! Pop Up Cutter followed!
Omega staggered to his feet in the corner. Bandido SMASHED into the World Champion with running double knees. He unleashed with a lightning-fast strike combination – forearm, chops, and a gamenguri kick to the skull! He took Omage up top, looking for a superplex. Omega fought back, trying to block the move, but Bandido pounding him with sharp elbow strikes. Bandido grabbed Omega and took him off the top....
REVOLUTION FLY!
1.....
2.................................
KICK OUT!
Bandido lifted Omega up, looking for the gorilla press....but Omega escaped! He hooked Bandido – Snap Dragon.......
NO!
Bandido countered with a modified jawbreaker!
Bandido lifted Omega...GORILLA PRESS!
Bandido walked around the ring with the World Champion overhead. He brought the crowd to its feet, by transitioning to a ONE-HANDED lift!
Bandido dropped Omega, who crashed on the canvas. The World Champion rolled out to the apron, but Bandido stayed on the attack.
DOUBLE SPRINGBOARD DROPKICK!
Bandido showcased INSANE body control, drilling Omega off the apron to the floor. With the crowd chanting his name, Bandido vaulted himself to the top.......
TORNILLO DIVE!
The Houston crowd roared:
Justin Roberts announced:
Back inside, Bandido positioned Omega for the 21 Plex. He backed up and charged for the finisher....
V-TRIGGER!
SNAP DRAGON!
ANOTHER SNAP DRAGON!
A THIRD SNAP DRAGON!
Omega lifted Bandido for the One Winged Angel.........
BANDIDO COUNTERED WITH A POISION RANA!
With the crowd standing and clapping, both men rose:
V-Trigger from Omega! Bandido fell into the ropes and rebounded with a superkick! Omega fell into the ropes and rebounded with another V-Trigger! Bandido rebounded back....SIMULTANEOUS CLOTHESLINES!
BOTH MEN WENT DOWN!
The crowd EXPLODED!
Justin Roberts:
Mauro Ranallo:
Both men pulled themselves up slowly. They stared at each other in the eyes...slowly, Omega extended a fist. Bandido reciprocated and they fist bumped in respect.
Both men TORE INTO EACH OTHER! They threw bombs: forearms, chops, forearms, chops...Bandido ducked a forearm and RIPPED Omega down with bridging German Suplex!
1.....
2.......................
KICK OUT!
Mauro Ranallo:
Bandido slapped his beat red chest and fired up, the crowd responded in kind. Bandido climbed up top. He shimmied his shoulders ala Eddy Guerrero. He flew with a Frog Splash...
OMEGA GOT THE KNEES UP!
Bandido recoiled in pain! He grabbed at his back as he struggled to his feet!
V-TRIGGER!
Omega hoisted Bandido up!
ONE WINGED ANGEL!
1.....
2........................................
3.....................................................................................
Mauro Ranallo:
Both men pulled themselves up slowly. They stared at each other in the eyes...slowly, Omega extended a fist. Bandido reciprocated and they fist bumped in respect.
Both men TORE INTO EACH OTHER! They threw bombs: forearms, chops, forearms, chops...Bandido ducked a forearm and RIPPED Omega down with bridging German Suplex!
1.....
2.......................
KICK OUT!
Mauro Ranallo:
Bandido slapped his beat red chest and fired up, the crowd responded in kind. Bandido climbed up top. He shimmied his shoulders ala Eddy Guerrero. He flew with a Frog Splash...
OMEGA GOT THE KNEES UP!
Bandido recoiled in pain! He grabbed at his back as he struggled to his feet!
V-TRIGGER!
Omega hoisted Bandido up!
ONE WINGED ANGEL!
1.....
2........................................
3.....................................................................................
Kenny Omega (16:18)
Kenny Omega 2 Points (1-0) | Bandido 0 Points (0-1)
Kenny Omega 2 Points (1-0) | Bandido 0 Points (0-1)
This match fully delivered on the expectations coming in. The crowd was molten for this match as it kicked into gear. Once again, Kenny made Bandido look like a threat without undermining his own aura.
In so many ways, Bandido could be the Mexican star that every US promotion has looked for since Rey Mysterio. We need to treat him as such.
We really played into the importance of the time limit here. It is important that we get this over as an important component of the Grand Prix.
In so many ways, Bandido could be the Mexican star that every US promotion has looked for since Rey Mysterio. We need to treat him as such.
We really played into the importance of the time limit here. It is important that we get this over as an important component of the Grand Prix.
The crowd gave both men a thunderous ovation. Omega raised his arms in victory. Bandido clutched his neck, but he gave Omega a respectful nod before rolling out of the ring.
Highlights are shown of Ethan Carter’s brutal chair shot on Cody two weeks ago:
- We see slow-motion shots of the chair meeting Cody’s skull, with the sickening crack heard several times.
- We see still images of Cody’s platinum blonde hair stained with blood.
- We see still images of Cody’s head with 12 staples in it to close the wound.
Backstage, Melissa Santos stood by with Cody. He stood calm and composed, but a flicker of pain could be seen in his eyes. The Intercontinental Championship was around his waist.
Match Five: B Block – Kota Ibushi (0-0; 0 Points) vs. “The American Nightmare” Cody (0-0; 0 Points)
The fifth match of Ignition was a B Block match between Kota Ibushi and Cody. Ibushi received a respectful, enthusiastic reaction. They came unglued when Cody’s music hit.
The Intercontinental Champion Cody walked out with the crowd chanting his name. He had an edge to him – his eyes focused, his stride stiff. Chael Sonnen said:
Mauro Ranallo added:
Both men shook hands and circled each other. The opening lock up was tight, competitive, and clean. They broke and reset. Another tie-up led to Cody grabbing an arm wringer. Ibushi escaped, but Cody’s superior grappling skills shined as he grounded Ibushi. Ibushi fought to his feet, spun out, and cracked Cody with a back elbow.
They hit the ropes – duck unders, leapfrogs, and dodges followed until Ibushi suddenly snapped off a picture-perfect hurricanrana that sent Cody to the floor. The crowd stirred as Ibushi slingshotted himself for a pescado....
But Cody moved! Ibushi landed on his feet on the floor though. He ducked a lariat and CRACKED Cody with a roundhouse kick to the head!
Cody winced and dropped to a knee. Ibushi darted back into the ring and vaulted into a flawless Golden Triangle Moonsault to the outside! He wiped out Cody!
They hit the ropes – duck unders, leapfrogs, and dodges followed until Ibushi suddenly snapped off a picture-perfect hurricanrana that sent Cody to the floor. The crowd stirred as Ibushi slingshotted himself for a pescado....
But Cody moved! Ibushi landed on his feet on the floor though. He ducked a lariat and CRACKED Cody with a roundhouse kick to the head!
Cody winced and dropped to a knee. Ibushi darted back into the ring and vaulted into a flawless Golden Triangle Moonsault to the outside! He wiped out Cody!
Ibushi rolled Cody in and PEPPERED him with a series of wicked kicks that cracked like a whip: leg kicks led to hard kicks to the ribs.
Cody finally caught a kick and spun Ibushi down with a Dragon Screw Leg Whip!
Cody went after the leg with stomps and a shinbreaker. Cody hit a flapjack and covered!
1....
Kick Out!
Cody drove Ibushi into the corner and climbed to the middle rope. He pounded away with the ten mounted punches, the crowd chanting along:
Justin Roberts:
Cody tried for a vertical suplex, but Ibushi blocked. Cody tried again – blocked again. Gritting his teeth, Cody roared, hoisted Ibushi up, and suplexed him over the top rope, but Ibushi clung on and both men CRASHED to the floor in a NASTY landing!
Somehow, someway...Cody maintained his grip on Ibushi’s head...he rose.....
DDT ON THE FLOOR!
Cody crawled back into the ring, clearly rattled and clutching the back of his head. He went for a baseball slide.....
Ibushi evaded, leapt to the apron......
ASAI MOONSAULT!
Back inside, Ibushi nailed a dropkick, followed by a wicked kick to the sternum. Ibushi hit the standing moonsault knee drop! Cover!
1....
2.................
Kick Out!
Ibushi set Cody on the top rope and connected with a leaping kick to the head! Ibushi climbed up and looked for a superplex – but Cody fought him off with forearms......
Cody slipped through Ibushi’s legs and RIPPED him out of the corner and onto the canvas with a THUNDEROUS Alabama Slam!
DISASTER KICK!
COVER!
1...
2...................
Kick Out!
Cody wasted no movement. He went for the Cross Rhodes, but Ibushi slipped free and unleased a lightning-fast strike combo:
Cody followed and landed several heavy forearms. He tried for a Cody Cutter on the apron....
Ibushi blocked and dropped Cody with a reverse DDT on the apron!
STANDING MOONSAULT KNEE DROP ON THE APRON!
Cody finally caught a kick and spun Ibushi down with a Dragon Screw Leg Whip!
Cody went after the leg with stomps and a shinbreaker. Cody hit a flapjack and covered!
1....
Kick Out!
Cody drove Ibushi into the corner and climbed to the middle rope. He pounded away with the ten mounted punches, the crowd chanting along:
Justin Roberts:
Cody tried for a vertical suplex, but Ibushi blocked. Cody tried again – blocked again. Gritting his teeth, Cody roared, hoisted Ibushi up, and suplexed him over the top rope, but Ibushi clung on and both men CRASHED to the floor in a NASTY landing!
Somehow, someway...Cody maintained his grip on Ibushi’s head...he rose.....
DDT ON THE FLOOR!
Cody crawled back into the ring, clearly rattled and clutching the back of his head. He went for a baseball slide.....
Ibushi evaded, leapt to the apron......
ASAI MOONSAULT!
Back inside, Ibushi nailed a dropkick, followed by a wicked kick to the sternum. Ibushi hit the standing moonsault knee drop! Cover!
1....
2.................
Kick Out!
Ibushi set Cody on the top rope and connected with a leaping kick to the head! Ibushi climbed up and looked for a superplex – but Cody fought him off with forearms......
Cody slipped through Ibushi’s legs and RIPPED him out of the corner and onto the canvas with a THUNDEROUS Alabama Slam!
DISASTER KICK!
COVER!
1...
2...................
Kick Out!
Cody wasted no movement. He went for the Cross Rhodes, but Ibushi slipped free and unleased a lightning-fast strike combo:
- Leg Kick
- Leg Kick
- Chop
- Chop
- BOOM – a discus lariat that turned Cody inside out!
Cody followed and landed several heavy forearms. He tried for a Cody Cutter on the apron....
Ibushi blocked and dropped Cody with a reverse DDT on the apron!
STANDING MOONSAULT KNEE DROP ON THE APRON!
Back inside, Ibushi sized up Cody. He charged for the Boma Ye.......
CODY COUNTERED WITH THE SNAP POWERSLAM!
Back suplex from Cody! He looked for the Figure Four...as he went to hook the legs, Ibushi rolled him up!
1.....
2......................
Kick Out!
Ibushi held on to the wrist on the kickout and snapped a flurry of kicks into Cody’s ribs.
ROUNDHOUSE to the head!
Cody dropped down to his knees. A glassy look came over his eyes. Mauro Ranallo said:
Ibushi lined up for a buzzsaw kick......
CODY EXPLODED OFF THE CANVAS AND FOLDED IBUSHI IN HALF WITH A LARIAT!
Both men were down, and the crowd roared.
Justin Roberts:
They both rose – Cody slower. Ibushi reared back – and LANDED ANOTHER THUNDEROUS KICK TO CODY’S SKULL!
Cody COLLAPSED, grabbing his head. He rolled to the corner in visible pain.
The referee and ringside doctor rushed over. Ignoring their words, Cody grabbed for the ropes – doing anything to get to his feet. The crowd knew Cody was in trouble and did everything they could to rally him.
The referee asked:
Cody stood and screamed:
A dazed, battered Cody rose, his hands up. Ibushi nodded solemnly........
SPINNING WHEEL KICK TO THE HEAD!
Cody dropped.
BOMA YE!
1....
2............................
3.............................................................
CODY COUNTERED WITH THE SNAP POWERSLAM!
Back suplex from Cody! He looked for the Figure Four...as he went to hook the legs, Ibushi rolled him up!
1.....
2......................
Kick Out!
Ibushi held on to the wrist on the kickout and snapped a flurry of kicks into Cody’s ribs.
ROUNDHOUSE to the head!
Cody dropped down to his knees. A glassy look came over his eyes. Mauro Ranallo said:
Ibushi lined up for a buzzsaw kick......
CODY EXPLODED OFF THE CANVAS AND FOLDED IBUSHI IN HALF WITH A LARIAT!
Both men were down, and the crowd roared.
Justin Roberts:
They both rose – Cody slower. Ibushi reared back – and LANDED ANOTHER THUNDEROUS KICK TO CODY’S SKULL!
Cody COLLAPSED, grabbing his head. He rolled to the corner in visible pain.
The referee and ringside doctor rushed over. Ignoring their words, Cody grabbed for the ropes – doing anything to get to his feet. The crowd knew Cody was in trouble and did everything they could to rally him.
The referee asked:
Cody stood and screamed:
A dazed, battered Cody rose, his hands up. Ibushi nodded solemnly........
SPINNING WHEEL KICK TO THE HEAD!
Cody dropped.
BOMA YE!
1....
2............................
3.............................................................
Kota Ibushi (12:02)
Kota Ibushi 2 Points (1-0) | Cody 0 Points (0-1)
Kota Ibushi 2 Points (1-0) | Cody 0 Points (0-1)
This was a hard-hitting match that was designed to elevate Kota Ibushi with a major singles win over the reigning Intercontinental Champion, while also telling the story of Cody’s head injury from the chair shot.
Cody’s selling was pitch-perfect. It furthered the storyline with Ethan Carter, without Carter having to be present. At the same time, the match was set up to get over Ibushi as a lethal striker and legit Grand Prix contender. We really want to get over the other members of Golden Triangle as legit singles stars – not just second fiddle to Omega.
Cody’s selling was pitch-perfect. It furthered the storyline with Ethan Carter, without Carter having to be present. At the same time, the match was set up to get over Ibushi as a lethal striker and legit Grand Prix contender. We really want to get over the other members of Golden Triangle as legit singles stars – not just second fiddle to Omega.
The NRG Arena was in disbelief. Cody – beloved, courageous, but human – had fallen.
Cody sat up, dazed. Ibushi bowed to him. Cody nodded, but the message was clear – the road through the Grand Prix would be hell.
Cody sat up, dazed. Ibushi bowed to him. Cody nodded, but the message was clear – the road through the Grand Prix would be hell.
Highlights of the Newcomers Four Way from three weeks ago is shown. We see Jungle Boy run wild and lock Myron Reed in the Snare Trap submission.
We see Sammy Guevara launch himself through the air with a breathtaking 630 senton, crashing onto both men. Guevara pinned Reed for the win. Jungle Boy looked up to the lights in disbelief.
A split screen is shown of the two men’s contrasting lifestyles.
On the left side, we see Sammy Guevara:
- Sammy slides into a matte black Lamborghini, revs it, and speeds down a highway.
- He vlogs in sunglasses, surrounded by laughing influencer friends.
- We see highlights of his selfie’s -- doing flips in the gym, eating expensive dinners, and taking pictures with InstaGram models.
On the right side, we see Jungle Boy:
- He hugs his family and laughs at a backyard birthday party.
- He rides waves on a surfboard in the Southern California sun.
- He trains solo – lifting weights, doing mat drills, and running steps at dawn.
The camera cuts to Sammy Guevara speaking into the camera:
The final shot shows highlights of both men:
- Sammy hits the 630
- Jungle Boy hits a hurricanrana
- Sammy hits his corkscrew plancha
- Jungle Boy locks in the Snare Trap
Backstage, Melissa Santos interviewed Claudio Castagnoli and Salina de la Rena. Claudio stood silently in his gear, arms crossed, eyes cold. Salina wore heels and power-red lipstick.
Claudio stepped forward. He spoke with quiet, cold intensity:
Claudio stared down the camera lens, jaw clenched. Salinda gently touched his arm, and the duo walked on.
Melissa raised the microphone:
The voice of Taya Valkyrie is heard!
Walking into the interview area is the LA Express – Johnny Mundo, Taya Valkyrie, and Mike Bennett in tow. A heavy silence hit, and Melissa froze for a second, her jaw tightened.
Mundo smugly grinned:
Melissa stormed off furiously. Johnny chuckled along with Taya Valkyrie like two mean high school bullies. Mike Bennett looked uncomfortable about all of this.
Claudio stepped forward. He spoke with quiet, cold intensity:
Claudio stared down the camera lens, jaw clenched. Salinda gently touched his arm, and the duo walked on.
Melissa raised the microphone:
The voice of Taya Valkyrie is heard!
Walking into the interview area is the LA Express – Johnny Mundo, Taya Valkyrie, and Mike Bennett in tow. A heavy silence hit, and Melissa froze for a second, her jaw tightened.
Mundo smugly grinned:
Melissa stormed off furiously. Johnny chuckled along with Taya Valkyrie like two mean high school bullies. Mike Bennett looked uncomfortable about all of this.
Ahead of the main event, Mauro Ranallo and Chael Sonnen plugged the debut of OverDrive on Saturday night, 6:05 PM, streaming LIVE on YouTube.
- Jungle Boy vs. Sammy Guevara
- LFI vs. The Union
- LA Express vs. South Pacific Power Trip
- Nixon Newell In Action
They also plugged Grand Prix: Night Two, next week in Phoenix:
The main event of Ignition was a B Block match between Claudio Castagnoli and Jon Moxley.
Castagnoli entered slowly and coldly, shadowed by the venomous Salina de la Renta. On commentary, Mauro Ranallo said:
The NRG Arena EXPLODED. Thunderous, unfiltered energy spread through the building.
Jon Moxley emerged through the people – shoulders swaying, head lowered, soaking in the chaos.
As soon as Moxley entered the ring, he struck!
The two titans collided mid-ring, throwing BOMBS. The crowd roared. Moxley and Castagnoli threw forearms and punches like this was a back alley brawl!
Moxley ducked an enziguri. Castagnoli avoided a running kick to the head. The sequence was RAW and the fans were unglued.
Both men began elbowing each other. SICK, bone-on-one shots.
Castagnoli got the better of the exchange, bounced off the ropes and CRACKED Moxley with a lariat.
Castagnoli hit the ropes for momentum but ran directly into a spinning slam from Moxley! Moxley threw Castagnoli through the ropes to the floor. On the outside, Moxley BOUNCED Castagnoli’s head off the timekeeper’s table. He then LIT him up with chops!
POP! POP! POP!
The chops EXPLODED on Castagnoli’s chest, landing with the sound of gunfire. Moxley landed one chop so stiff, it nearly sent Castagnoli over the guardrail!
Salina de la Renta walked over and SHRIEKED.
Moxley paused his glorious violence and cocked his head. He began stalking Salina. Salina backed up but continued to spew hateful venom in Mox’s direction. This was all part of the plan....
Castagnoli ran up from behind and barreled Moxley headfirst into the steel ring post!
The two titans collided mid-ring, throwing BOMBS. The crowd roared. Moxley and Castagnoli threw forearms and punches like this was a back alley brawl!
Moxley ducked an enziguri. Castagnoli avoided a running kick to the head. The sequence was RAW and the fans were unglued.
Both men began elbowing each other. SICK, bone-on-one shots.
Castagnoli got the better of the exchange, bounced off the ropes and CRACKED Moxley with a lariat.
Castagnoli hit the ropes for momentum but ran directly into a spinning slam from Moxley! Moxley threw Castagnoli through the ropes to the floor. On the outside, Moxley BOUNCED Castagnoli’s head off the timekeeper’s table. He then LIT him up with chops!
POP! POP! POP!
The chops EXPLODED on Castagnoli’s chest, landing with the sound of gunfire. Moxley landed one chop so stiff, it nearly sent Castagnoli over the guardrail!
Salina de la Renta walked over and SHRIEKED.
Moxley paused his glorious violence and cocked his head. He began stalking Salina. Salina backed up but continued to spew hateful venom in Mox’s direction. This was all part of the plan....
Castagnoli ran up from behind and barreled Moxley headfirst into the steel ring post!
Back inside, Castagnoli rained down vicious stomps to Moxley’s skull. Over and over again, the stomps landed like anvils. He ground Moxley’s face into the canvas – but Moxley SMILED!
Mauro exclaimed:
Moxley roared! He got to his feet, chest heaving, eyes wide!
He BLASTED Castagnoli with three hellacious chops – but Claudio answered with a lariat from hell!
MOXLEY DIDN’T BUDGE AN INCH!
They went forehead to forehead! Moxley screamed:
HEADBUTT FROM MOXLEY!
Moxley hit the ropes......KING KONG LARIAT!
CLAUDIO CASTAGNOLI DIDN’T MOVE!
Castagnoli roared and fired a series of his own chops! Moxley reversed an Irish Whip into the corner and followed with a corner clothesline. He tried for a vertical suplex, but Castagnoli blocked and with his sheer raw power...hoisted Moxley up and dropped him with a textbook vertical suplex!
Justin Roberts:
Castagnoli ran the ropes and SMASHED Moxley with a running boot to the jaw!
Moxley spit on the canvas. He rose and threw forearms – straight to the face! Moxley swung and swung...each forearm hitting harder than the last.
CASTAGNOLI STARTING HEADBUTTING THE FOREARMS!
Like a psychopath, Castagnoli enjoyed the pain! He SPIT straight into Moxley’s face!
Moxley EXPLODED with three more brutal forearms. Claudio fired back with JAW SHATTERING European Upper that FLATTENED Moxley!
Claudio rained down anvil elbows. He foamed at the mouth as he drove down each strike. Castagnoli took Moxley up top........
DELAYED SUPERPLEX!
Castagnoli held Moxley up till the count of ten before crashing back onto the cerulean, blue mat. Cover!
1....
2.........
Kick Out!
Castagnoli went for the Discus Uppercut, but Moxley avoided it and countered with a small package!
1....
2.......
Kick Out!
They popped up – Moxley tried a King Kong Lariat, but Castagnoli ducked and countered with a German Suplex!
Moxley was staggered – Claudio charged........Moxley ducked a lariat and hit a German Suplex of his own!
CLAUDIO POPPED RIGHT BACK TO HIS FEET!
BOOM!
MOXLEY TURNED HIM INSIDE OUT WITH A KING KONG LARIAT!
Claudio staggered into the corner. Moxley charged for the Regal Knee, but Claudio dodged! Castagnoli hit an enziguri followed by another European Uppercut! Cover!
1...
2........
Kick Out!
Castagnoli called for the Ricola Bomb. He lifted Moxley up.......
MOXLEY BIT HIS FOREHEAD!
MOXLEY DUG HIS TEETH IN LIKE CASTAGNOLI’S HEAD WAS A RIBEYE!
Moxley escaped the grasp of the Swiss Assassin, who grabbed his head in pain.....
REGAL KNEE!
BOTH MEN WENT DOWN!
THE CROWD LOST IT!
Mauro exclaimed:
Moxley roared! He got to his feet, chest heaving, eyes wide!
He BLASTED Castagnoli with three hellacious chops – but Claudio answered with a lariat from hell!
MOXLEY DIDN’T BUDGE AN INCH!
They went forehead to forehead! Moxley screamed:
HEADBUTT FROM MOXLEY!
Moxley hit the ropes......KING KONG LARIAT!
CLAUDIO CASTAGNOLI DIDN’T MOVE!
Castagnoli roared and fired a series of his own chops! Moxley reversed an Irish Whip into the corner and followed with a corner clothesline. He tried for a vertical suplex, but Castagnoli blocked and with his sheer raw power...hoisted Moxley up and dropped him with a textbook vertical suplex!
Justin Roberts:
Castagnoli ran the ropes and SMASHED Moxley with a running boot to the jaw!
Moxley spit on the canvas. He rose and threw forearms – straight to the face! Moxley swung and swung...each forearm hitting harder than the last.
CASTAGNOLI STARTING HEADBUTTING THE FOREARMS!
Like a psychopath, Castagnoli enjoyed the pain! He SPIT straight into Moxley’s face!
Moxley EXPLODED with three more brutal forearms. Claudio fired back with JAW SHATTERING European Upper that FLATTENED Moxley!
Claudio rained down anvil elbows. He foamed at the mouth as he drove down each strike. Castagnoli took Moxley up top........
DELAYED SUPERPLEX!
Castagnoli held Moxley up till the count of ten before crashing back onto the cerulean, blue mat. Cover!
1....
2.........
Kick Out!
Castagnoli went for the Discus Uppercut, but Moxley avoided it and countered with a small package!
1....
2.......
Kick Out!
They popped up – Moxley tried a King Kong Lariat, but Castagnoli ducked and countered with a German Suplex!
Moxley was staggered – Claudio charged........Moxley ducked a lariat and hit a German Suplex of his own!
CLAUDIO POPPED RIGHT BACK TO HIS FEET!
BOOM!
MOXLEY TURNED HIM INSIDE OUT WITH A KING KONG LARIAT!
Claudio staggered into the corner. Moxley charged for the Regal Knee, but Claudio dodged! Castagnoli hit an enziguri followed by another European Uppercut! Cover!
1...
2........
Kick Out!
Castagnoli called for the Ricola Bomb. He lifted Moxley up.......
MOXLEY BIT HIS FOREHEAD!
MOXLEY DUG HIS TEETH IN LIKE CASTAGNOLI’S HEAD WAS A RIBEYE!
Moxley escaped the grasp of the Swiss Assassin, who grabbed his head in pain.....
REGAL KNEE!
BOTH MEN WENT DOWN!
THE CROWD LOST IT!
Justin Roberts:
From their knees, the two men met in the center of the ring.....
HEADBUTTS!
Brutal, sickening smacks of skull on skull!
Both men started bleeding!
Moxley landed a MASSIVE headbutt and rose to his feet. He screamed:
From his knees, Castagnoli exploded off the match and caught Moxley with a headbutt right under the chin!
Castagnoli charged with a lariat....
NO – MOXLEY COUNTERED WITH A URANAGE!
1....
2.....................
NO!
REGAL KNEE FROM MOXLEY!
1.....
2................................
KICK OUT!
Everyone in the NRG Arena was on their feet at the sheer violence on display. Both men were desperate for the 2 points as the time ticked away.
Moxley called for the Death Rider. He hooked him, but Castagnoli blocked and powered his way out!
BOOM!
UPPERCUT FROM CASTAGNOLI!
BOOM – ANOTHER UPPERCUT!
DISCUS UPPERCUT!
MOXLEY FOLDED IN HALF!
1......
2.............................
MOXLEY KICKED OUT AT 2.9999999999!
Salina beat on the apron and screamed:
Castagnoli transition to the Sharpshooter. As he went to turn Moxley over, Mox caught him with a roll up....
1....
2........
NO!
Both men popped to their feet in desperation – they just TEED OFF on each other with strikes! Chops! Forearms! Blood and sweat streamed down both of their faces!
Castagnoli got the better of the exchange with a chop to the throat. Moxley grabbed at his throat...gasping for air.
Castagnoli loaded up for a forearm strike......
MOXLEY DUCKED – SNAP DDT!
Moxley ripped his kneepad down.......
REGAL KNEE!
DEATH RIDER DDT!
1.....
2...........................................
3.....................................................................................................
From their knees, the two men met in the center of the ring.....
HEADBUTTS!
Brutal, sickening smacks of skull on skull!
Both men started bleeding!
Moxley landed a MASSIVE headbutt and rose to his feet. He screamed:
From his knees, Castagnoli exploded off the match and caught Moxley with a headbutt right under the chin!
Castagnoli charged with a lariat....
NO – MOXLEY COUNTERED WITH A URANAGE!
1....
2.....................
NO!
REGAL KNEE FROM MOXLEY!
1.....
2................................
KICK OUT!
Everyone in the NRG Arena was on their feet at the sheer violence on display. Both men were desperate for the 2 points as the time ticked away.
Moxley called for the Death Rider. He hooked him, but Castagnoli blocked and powered his way out!
BOOM!
UPPERCUT FROM CASTAGNOLI!
BOOM – ANOTHER UPPERCUT!
DISCUS UPPERCUT!
MOXLEY FOLDED IN HALF!
1......
2.............................
MOXLEY KICKED OUT AT 2.9999999999!
Salina beat on the apron and screamed:
Castagnoli transition to the Sharpshooter. As he went to turn Moxley over, Mox caught him with a roll up....
1....
2........
NO!
Both men popped to their feet in desperation – they just TEED OFF on each other with strikes! Chops! Forearms! Blood and sweat streamed down both of their faces!
Castagnoli got the better of the exchange with a chop to the throat. Moxley grabbed at his throat...gasping for air.
Castagnoli loaded up for a forearm strike......
MOXLEY DUCKED – SNAP DDT!
Moxley ripped his kneepad down.......
REGAL KNEE!
DEATH RIDER DDT!
1.....
2...........................................
3.....................................................................................................
Jon Moxley (14:58)
Jon Moxley 2 Points (1-0) | Claudio Castagnoli 0 Points (0-1)
Jon Moxley 2 Points (1-0) | Claudio Castagnoli 0 Points (0-1)
This match was insanely violent, urgent, and felt real. The strikes were all snug and the crowd felt the pain these men dished out and reacted accordingly.
Moxley is a full-blown star. From the entrance to his facial expression, he felt like the most over guy on the roster tonight. He was the center of gravity in this match, and the audience followed his every move.
Despite the clean loss, Claudio came across with his sheer force. Salina is fantastic, and despite being so young – she just gets it. She plays her role as heel manager so well.
There were stretches in the match that emphasized back and forth strikes. This is super common in modern wrestling, but we had A LOT of it on this show. We need to make sure we save those spots so when we get to a match like this – it hits with more weight.
Moxley is a full-blown star. From the entrance to his facial expression, he felt like the most over guy on the roster tonight. He was the center of gravity in this match, and the audience followed his every move.
Despite the clean loss, Claudio came across with his sheer force. Salina is fantastic, and despite being so young – she just gets it. She plays her role as heel manager so well.
There were stretches in the match that emphasized back and forth strikes. This is super common in modern wrestling, but we had A LOT of it on this show. We need to make sure we save those spots so when we get to a match like this – it hits with more weight.
The crowd exploded as AC/DC hit the arena again. Moxley stood tall, blood trickling down his face. His chest heaved.
Salina de la Renta stood STUNNED at ringside. She couldn’t believe Castagnoli had lost...again.
Moxley staggered against the ropes, he looked like a victorious bar room brawler. He roared, raised his arms in triumph and smiled. Mauro Ranallo closed the show:
Salina de la Renta stood STUNNED at ringside. She couldn’t believe Castagnoli had lost...again.
Moxley staggered against the ropes, he looked like a victorious bar room brawler. He roared, raised his arms in triumph and smiled. Mauro Ranallo closed the show:
Grand Prix Results
A Block | B Block |
Kenny Omega (1-0) - 2 Points | Jon Moxley (1-0) - 2 Points |
Will Ospreay (1-0) - 2 Points | Bobby Lashley (1-0) - 2 Points |
AJ Styles (1-0) - 2 Points | Kota Ibushi (1-0) - 2 Points |
Ricochet (0-1) - 0 Points | Cody (0-1) - 0 Points |
Bandido (0-1) - 0 Points | Adam Cole (0-1) - 0 Points |
Austin Aries (0-1) - 0 Points | Claudio Castagnoli (0-1) - 0 Points |
Results
No. | Results | Stipulations | Time |
1 | Will Ospreay def. Ricochet | A Block: Singles match | 13:40 |
2 | Bobby Lashley def. Adam Cole | B Block: Singles match | 5:03 |
3 | AJ Styles def. Austin Aries | A Block: Singles match | 9:30 |
4 | Kenny Omega def. Bandido | A Block: Singles match | 16:18 |
5 | Kota Ibushi def. Cody | B Block: Singles match | 12:02 |
6 | Jon Moxley def. Claudio Castagnoli (w/ Salina de la Renta) | B Block: Singles match | 14:58 |
