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00:00Please welcome my guest at this time the a-lister the Miz. Miz you've made it to
00:06the semifinals we're up next you will face Rey Mysterio and have an
00:11opportunity to get one step closer to becoming the best in the world. I told
00:16you so I told you I was going to beat Jeff Hardy I may have gotten Neil kicked
00:22in the throat and can barely talk and I bet that makes everyone really happy but
00:26I beat Jeff Hardy and I'm gonna feast on poor little wounded Rey Mysterio and I
00:31can't think of a better Hollywood ending than the plucky underdog battered
00:36beaten pulling himself up off the mat for one last shot of glory only to be
00:40decimated by the real hero. Tonight isn't about happy endings it's about me
00:48rolling the credits on Rey Mysterio and proving to everyone that I am the best
00:53in the world
01:05the following is a semifinal match in the WWE World Cup Tournament
01:24introducing first weighing in at 221 pounds and residing in Hollywood
01:31California the Miz! What a heroic display from the a-lister can you believe the
01:43adversity that the Miz is going to have to overcome to escape victorious in this
01:49round in this semifinal round Miz can't even talk! Well listen Miz may have a hurt
01:56throat but there's somebody that was maybe even worse off than he is let's
01:59head back to Byron Saxton with the Miz's opponent
02:04Rey you were pummeled by Randy Orton after you won your first round match
02:08what are the odds of you beating the Miz? I'll tell you being the best is about
02:14never making excuses you can be physically at a hundred percent seventy
02:19five percent or whatever but the truth is you can't put a number on a man's
02:24pride and determination yeah I know Miz says that he'll do
02:28whatever it takes to win he's probably cooking up a plan right now or has a
02:32plan let him! The truth is I've been underestimated by bigger and better that
02:39just makes my W much sweeter
02:45now to me that's a real champion no excuses by Rey Mysterio gonna come out
02:50here and try to beat the Miz in this match Miz is talking about having a sore
02:54throat did you hear Rey Mysterio speak sounded crystal clear to me he's not
03:00coming into this match with an injured throat nobody crystal clearly said he's
03:03been in the ring with bigger and better so I don't think the Miz is going to be a problem for Rey
03:08San Diego California weighing in at 170 pounds Rey Mysterio
03:18you know Corey Miz has a chip on his shoulder when it comes to Rey Mysterio
03:22looking for some revenge because Rey beat Miz a couple of weeks ago on
03:26Smackdown I don't understand Michael Cole why do you always insist on bringing up
03:30the past let's focus on the here and the now and that the a-lister is about to
03:34overcome the odds at the expense wait a minute me what about this this guy talks
03:41about being WWE champion at Wrestlemania years and years he still talks about the
03:45real world which is like 45 years ago listen this has a lot of accomplishment
03:51to keep track of I have heard I'm not supposed to let the cat out of the bag
03:55okay I heard from a very reliable source that Monroe Skye is actually on the
04:00short list to become the Browns new offensive coordinator you know what I
04:04anyway let's talk about the Rey Mysterio situation he defeated Randy Orton in the
04:10first round but then after the matchup he was beaten and beaten hard by by
04:15Randy Orton dropped face first on the announce table Rey Mysterio can not be
04:19anywhere near a hundred percent tonight in the Miz Miz of course has been
04:23injured as well this is a semi-final matchup the winner of this match will
04:27advance to the finals of the World Cup tournament to determine the best in the
04:32world do you know what that means Michael Cole just dawned on me that one
04:36of these two men is gonna go to the finals and if by some chance Oh the Miz
04:41doesn't win or Rey Mysterio doesn't win they're gonna be fired from SmackDown
04:45live Shane McMahon said there will be no home for the for the SmackDown
04:49competitor in the finals if he loses on SmackDown and here we go Mysterio Miz
04:54semi-final matchup and for Rey Mysterio again quicken the pace and perhaps put
05:00Miz away early it remains to be seen how well how capable Rey is to keep that
05:06face up for the kick Miz rolls him up trying to win one here almost had him
05:10after the beating suffered at the hands of Orton Mysterio again looking for the
05:14quick victory is up over the top sunset flip throw it a knee right to the face
05:19so now to go along with the bad throat he might have a broken jaw cover by Ray
05:23kick out by Miz Cole I remember once upon a time you were a big Miz fan now
05:28you seem to be happy you're gleeful that the moneymaker is being damaged by
05:32Mysterio listen to him anymore Cory that's what it is he listens Miz has
05:37accomplished so much in his career there's no doubt he's a superstar
05:40everything he does turns to gold oh god it's tough to the guy whoa that was
05:46pretty outrageous athleticism Rey Mysterio lands on his own so nine lives
05:51Oh and Mysterio right to the face
05:58and now Ray talk about unique offense after all these years Mysterio still
06:05with the ability to innovate second to none
06:09it would rain but stereo landed hard I think it was almost instinctive McRae
06:13delivered this maneuver not thinking about the damage that he suffered
06:17earlier that ribs in the attack from Randy or yeah to your point he was face
06:22first ribs first onto the announce table at the hands of Orton and our Mysterio
06:27trying to shake it off but it is clear Ray is hurt and in the moments that
06:32Ray's attempting to shake it off Miz has also been able to get back to a vertical
06:35base he's not out here to make excuses I think it's valiant that Ray's competing
06:41especially at this high level to become the best in the world that's what this
06:44tournament means Ray doesn't have the legacy that he does by taking days off
06:48because he's sore I'm just saying he's no a-lister
06:57Ray Mysterio man if he if he could win this match and have an opportunity to
07:06be called best in the world that really would be like the top of his resume
07:12happened first what great awareness by the Miz using Mysterio's own momentum
07:18against him and just planted Ray I think your boy just got a tooth knocked loose
07:22so great how much those cost face first right to the injured ribcage I mean
07:31hypothetically to replace this has perfectly natural teeth but should he
07:35want to replace them they're natural absolutely he had a few knocked out a
07:39year or two ago remember you and your revisionist history Cole and Miz
07:43continuing to work on the midsection of Ray Mysterio and this is great strategy
07:47by the Miz burying shoulders into the ribcage again though we need to worry
07:54about the tactics of the Miz what lengths will he go to make it to final
07:59any length we know that here's the cover by Miz hooks the leg Mysterio kicks at
08:05it to this now looking for the modified bow and arrow submission here up goes
08:16Mysterio this is not known for submissions with the exception of the
08:21figure-four but just cuz miss hasn't really needed to use his submission
08:26skills the guys got black belted martial arts almost stole one there remember
08:33miss jitsu wait miss the black belt you train with the brother Napoleon dynamite
08:40oh right to the midsection again and Mysterio is in deep deep trouble the
08:45official checking on Ray Rex Pondo as a matter of fact today that is it what
08:50it's about the World Cup to determine the best in the world one of these two
08:55men will advance to the finals the semi-finals from Monday Night Raw coming
09:00up next Seth Rollins versus Dolph Ziggler
09:09could you imagine how proud Miz and Maurice would be to display the World
09:14Cup trophy in Monroe's room right beside her crib listen that wouldn't just go
09:19right in Monroe's room they would have an entire parade in Austin there there
09:23would be there would be certainly be an entire episode is dedicated simply to
09:27the trophy Paul could go out in line dance with them I think coal line
09:34dancing is equivalent to raining on a parade and look it again
09:37miss great strategy continuing to work on the midsection the rib cage of Ray
09:43Mysterio I mean are you honestly surprised we're talking about the Miz
09:46here Miz is a strategist he knows exactly what he's going to do before he
09:51gets in the ring look at Ray fighting back and in Korea I'm not debating the
09:55in-ring presence of Miz great competitor
10:01Oh get landed hard on the ribs and that could be it for Ray Miz will take a
10:08countout victory I'll tell you that nothing wrong with that that's why
10:12count-out victories occur why they exist look at the impact area almost
10:17bounced now look at this Miz doesn't want to take a cheap victory this is a
10:22proud competitor all he wants is respect that's all he keeps saying about every
10:26single interview I ever see Miz do into the apron I mean he's accomplished
10:32enough in his career to to have that respect oh and again into the barricade
10:36I agree wholeheartedly it's him with the Napoleon complex Mysterio into the
10:43ring Miz looking to put it away in advance to the finals of the World Cup
10:47and a kick out by Ray listen Renee Ray Mysterio is one of the most celebrated
10:50superstars of all time there's no need to start making accusations I wasn't
10:53saying that about Ray I was talking about Miz listen to Ray you can hear him
11:01just screaming in agony the abdominal stretch now by the Miz elbow right into
11:07the midsection is grinding his elbow into the abdomen of Mysterio he's
11:12having a terribly difficult time breathing right now 12 to 6 elbows and
11:21now a claw from the Miz this has got to be agonizing for the luchador
11:26Miz is having fun just torturing Mysterio and it's just got to be a
11:30matter of time before Ray Mysterio can't go any longer you got to give
11:35Mysterio credit here been a valiant effort so far but the assault by Randy
11:40Orton earlier tonight and now the damage by the Miz may have done Ray Mysterio in
11:45however Ray showing some signs of life Miz caught it though into a pump handle
11:52Mysterio turns it into a DDT the ever resourceful Ray Mysterio buys himself a
12:00few extra moments keeps himself in this battle and this tournament Ray realizes
12:06it's win or go home take another look at this Miz was enjoying his work maybe a
12:13little too much and Mysterio capitalized Miz saw himself up on the tron got
12:18distracted by his own face and for Ray Mysterio this could be the crucial part
12:23of this match it may be his last opportunity to rally here with Miz down
12:31Ray slowly making his way back to a vertical base Miz still looks like he's
12:37got cobwebs oh what a left hand look at Ray fighting back with a right
12:53both men exchanging blows center of the ring Ray Mysterio though getting the
13:01upper hand some right hands to the Miz Mysterio
13:14this is what Miz could ill afford to find himself in the situation like this
13:19where Ray could pick up the pace Mysterio sends Miz flying
13:31still not entirely sure where Miz is if he knows where he's at
13:39Miz sent into the second turnbuckle
13:49shoulder to the midsection here comes Mysterio
13:52Miz is in position here we go this is what everybody shows up for
13:58looking for the six one nine and Miz again Mysterio into the corner and Miz
14:05now has him in position with a skull crushing finale the cover by the Miz to
14:11I can't believe what I just saw it's nothing short of miraculous the fact
14:22that Mysterio was able to survive this combination by the Miz first being
14:27launched face first into the top turnbuckle and then the finale the skull
14:34crushing finale and somehow great fights on wasn't quite enough to roll the
14:40credits on Ray Mysterio as Miz said he was going to do tonight there's a reason
14:46Ray Mysterio was called the biggest little man in the history of WWE the
14:51guts and the heart and the resilience of Mysterio
14:56the world-famous it kicks
15:09here we go Mysterio ducked underneath the same
15:15Oh any combination that got over and he's got him here almost had him again
15:19another big win by Mysterio Oh here we go
15:29beautiful
15:35they look at a capitalized seal the deal and make his way to the finals from the
15:42top
15:50here is your winner
15:54and the finals of the World Cup tournament just became must-see this is
16:02the man who everything he touches turns to gold his career is on the exact same
16:08tonight the Miz took advantage of an earlier attack by Randy or an injured
16:14ribs by Ray Mysterio to beat Mysterio tonight and move into the finals of the
16:20World Cup tournament to determine the best in the world it looked like Ray
16:24Mysterio was going to seal the deal right here six one nine connects Ray
16:30would take his time headed to the top rope favoring the ribs and at the end of
16:36it all Miz with great situational awareness exploiting the injuries Randy
16:43Orton caused and Miz continued but as Miz advances to the finals now the
16:49pressures on he's going to face either Seth Rollins or Dolph Ziggler that
16:54semifinal match is next but remember Cory it is a must win for the Miz
16:59because if he doesn't win that now Commissioner Shane McMahon said there
17:03will be no home for Miz to come home to. Miz will be fired from Smackdown Live.
17:08Listen I mean it's the commissioners prerogative to change his mind he can
17:12adjust the rules in time it's us you don't want to let an a-lister like the
17:15Miz leave Smackdown under any circumstance as a matter of fact don't
17:19worry about it Miz is gonna win I know. Let's shut up the Byron Saxton
17:23standing by with one of our next semi-finalists
17:29Seth you overcame last year in the first round how do you deal with the
17:33divergent styles of going from Lashley the now facing Dolph Ziggler. You know
17:39Saxton they wouldn't call the winner of this tournament the best in the world if
17:43it was easy it's not meant to be easy I don't want it to be easy and everybody
17:47in this semi-final they're all facing some adversity including me luckily for
17:52me I do my best work and the odds are stacked against me my back's against the
17:57wall. The following is a semi-final match in the WWE World Cup Tournament
18:11Introducing first from Davenport, Iowa weighing in at 217 pounds he is a Raw Tag Team Champion and the Intercontinental Champion Seth Rollins.
18:38Today the question is how is Seth? He was dominated by Lashley. You gotta worry about his lower back you can see the Bobby Lashley was working on that the entire time but as we said earlier if you give Seth Rollins an inch he's gonna close in on it. We can see him moving on to the finals.
18:54There's no shortage of history between Seth Rollins and his opponent now Dolph Ziggler
18:59created the Intercontinental Championship back and forth it was actually Dolph
19:03Ziggler and Drew McIntyre who set the Dean Ambrose beat to become Raw Tag Team
19:08Champions as well. Definitely had a lot of time to stake each other out but now
19:12to be named the best in the world by the end of the night that future both of these
19:17superstars who grew up wanting to be the pinnacle very top of this business and
19:21now their opportunities tonight. Familiarity breeds contempt both men
19:26very familiar with one another and I can assure you Seth Rollins is going to be
19:30looking to exploit the ankle injury Dolph Ziggler suffered earlier at the hands of Kurt Angle.
19:38And his opponent accompanied by Drew McIntyre residing in Hollywood Florida
19:46weighing in at 218 pounds Dolph Ziggler. Listen if you're Seth Rollins you've got to be put off by the fact that Drew McIntyre is coming to the ring again here with Dolph Ziggler. Remember Corey back over the summer one of the great
20:03rivalries in recent memory here at WWE Dolph and Seth Rollins over the
20:07Intercontinental Championship. The classic Iron Man match from this summer. Ziggler winning thanks to Drew McIntyre. Drew McIntyre has always been the X Factor but Seth Rollins by this point in time is very very aware of the danger McIntyre poses. This in my opinion is going to be a pure athletic contest because both Ziggler and Rollins have egos. They both want to earn the right to be called best in the world. No questions asked.
20:36What I'm told is Dolph actually wanted this matchup in the semifinals because he believes Seth Rollins is wearing the championship that belongs to him the Intercontinental title. I don't doubt that. We have consistently talked about the Intercontinental Championship being brought into prominence to have the accolade of having the Intercontinental Championship and Dolph Ziggler has been one of the main superstars to elevate the status of that championship and he wants to take that back from Seth Rollins. Got to get through him tonight though.
21:02The winner of this match will face The Miz in the finals of the World Cup Tournament to determine the best in the world. Will it be Rollins? Will it be Ziggler to represent Monday Night Raw? We are underway. These two superstars know each other so well.
21:17Got to worry about of course having Drew McIntyre at ringside.
21:45Dolph Ziggler is always so proud of how many days consecutively he's been on the road with WWE. He's been here for about 12 years. No real injuries. No time off.
21:53Seth Rollins looking for the ankle early on. Sorry to interrupt you Renee.
21:56No but just to that point it's like if you're able to focus in on this ankle and look to take Dolph Ziggler out early this could be it for him.
22:02Yeah the damage that Kurt Angle did to Dolph Ziggler earlier tonight with the ankle lock. Rollins of course lower back issues because of Lashley.
22:12Not to mention the neck that troubled Rollins throughout his career. I assure you Dolph Ziggler probably took a few minutes got that ankle heavily taped between matches.
22:21You can't really tape your neck though if you're Seth Rollins and Dolph wasting no time exploiting it.
22:26And the thing about this is Miz has been fairly unscathed so far in his first two matchups. He could be close to 100% heading into the finals.
22:34He does have that very bad sore throat though Cole.
22:38Thank God someone shows some sympathy around here. Thank you Renee I appreciate that.
22:46Ziggler now just doing his best to wear down Rollins to expend minimal energy while inflicting maximum punishment.
22:55He was sold out crowd here at Crown Jewel. Anxiously awaiting to find out who will meet the Miz in the finals of the WWE World Cup to determine the best in the world.
23:09Better imagine that Dolph Ziggler is on cloud nine now having already have a victory over Kurt Angle.
23:14Definitely had to be a good confidence boost. I said you've always got to focus on the injury if you're Seth Rollins.
23:22Leapfrog by Rollins caught. Ziggler got caught. And Seth now slamming Ziggler to the mat.
23:29Reaching back. Yeah the back of the neck damaged by Lashley earlier on as well. Ziggler sent over the top rope.
23:39Rollins thinking about taking a risk but thinking a little more calculated at this point.
23:44Yeah I think his neck is really bothering him as is Ziggler's ankle. You saw Dolph reach for the ankle when he came out of the ring.
23:51McIntyre barking at Rollins outside. Ziggler driven into the barricade.
24:04How important it is for Seth Rollins to win the opportunity. Uh oh wait a minute. McIntyre.
24:11What you gonna do big man? Hit me I dare you. Get your little buddy DQ'd. Come on hit me Drew. Come on Drew hit me. I dare you huh. I dare you.
24:27Seth Rollins fully aware of the situation. If Dolph gets disqualified.
24:31Ziggler took advantage. Is this enough to advance to the finals? Rollins able to kick out at two but again the neck. The neck.
24:42I think Drew McIntyre at ringside might just be the factor here for this matchup.
24:46I'm sure Seth is wishing he maybe had a little backup himself but tends to do some of his best work when he's on his own.
24:55The official admonishing Dolph Ziggler.
25:01Dolph just raking the eyes and forehead of Seth Rollins across the top rope.
25:05Yeah but ever since the distraction by McIntyre outside the ring Dolph Ziggler's in his own but Rollins now blocks.
25:10And Seth Rollins trying to fight back into this. Right to the knee.
25:15And Seth said he didn't want it to be easy. You got your wish.
25:21You know Dolph Ziggler's been trying to preach to the world for years now that he is the best in the world.
25:26Has an opportunity to prove that tonight off the neckbreaker.
25:29Cover now on Rollins. Is it enough to kick out? Great strategy Corey by Dolph continuing to go back to the injured neck.
25:36I love the deep cradle in the pinfall attempt by Ziggler. Focusing his attack on what he knows hurts on Seth Rollins.
25:49Ziggler knows he's in control. That he's in the driver's seat.
25:57And wrestling Rollins down to the mat.
25:59Dolph had himself a fist full of hair but was careful to turn himself and Rollins body as to not allow the referee to see it.
26:05Yeah McIntyre's got to be careful as well. Remember disqualification.
26:09Look at Dolph Ziggler the way he lifts his hips up while he's applying this side headlock. What does that do?
26:15Maximizes the pressure. It puts all of Dolph Ziggler's body weight down on Seth Rollins neck and shoulder region.
26:20As opposed to Dolph's own hips supporting him.
26:23You don't get 121 career wins at Kent State University without some wrestling techniques like that.
26:29Dolph Ziggler.
26:33Now Seth Rollins creating some space.
26:37Nobody home as Ziggler sidesteps.
26:40And now both men are down. Crucial moment in this match.
26:44I certainly think. Oh cover here by Ziggler. Is it enough to put Seth Rollins away? And a kick out at two.
26:50Certainly think that Seth Rollins is the worst for wear of the two.
26:54Ziggler certainly feeling the effects of the fight but Seth looks just about out of it.
27:00The burden that Seth Rollins is bearing right now.
27:04Dean Ambrose turning on him. The weight of this championship tournament on him.
27:11I don't disagree with you Renee but right now Seth Rollins can't focus on anything but the pain he's feeling in his spine.
27:18Dolph Ziggler happy to continue punishing.
27:22Seth though showing some life. Fighting out of the corner.
27:30And another chop.
27:36Beautiful elbow from Ziggler. Down goes Rollins once again.
27:41Ziggler cover to advance to the finals and meet the Miz. And a kick out by Rollins at two.
27:49Dolph looks like he's getting a little frustrated.
27:53I disagree with you Renee. Alright there was a brief moment you're right but he switched.
27:58Ziggler growing more and more confident by the minute.
28:02Realizes he's in the ring with a wounded animal.
28:11Now Ziggler just mocking Rollins.
28:14This is what Dolph can't get carried away with. We've seen in the past.
28:18This is going to fire up Rollins.
28:20Like I said you give Seth Rollins that one inch, that little bit of room.
28:24Rollins picked the ankle of Dolph Ziggler. Down goes Dolph.
28:29Fights out of it however and again back of the neck to the turnbuckle.
28:33And now Ziggler with a neckbreaker continues the attack.
28:36Cover by Dolph. Hook of the leg on Seth Rollins and a kick out at two.
28:41And now perhaps Dolph's getting frustrated.
28:45Dolph can really only blame it on himself. Got a little overconfident, even cocky for a minute.
28:50This is a smart strategy. Go back to what worked prior.
28:53Wear down Rollins.
29:01Dolph got that right arm of Rollins.
29:03Fried back. Now just cranking on the face and neck.
29:07He's got to be agonizing for Rollins.
29:14Let's go Rollins. Chance trying to will Seth on.
29:27Almost had him.
29:29Dolph looking for the DDT.
29:30Almost had him.
29:32Dolph looking for the DDT again but Rollins catches him.
29:37And now Seth. Dolph lands on his feet.
29:40Rolling up Rollins again.
29:42I can't believe he had the tights there and a kick out.
29:51Rollins pinning combination.
29:54Now it's Rollins shoulders that are down.
29:57Now Rollins stacking up Ziggler.
30:01And now Rollins with Ziggler down yet again. Now there's the power of Seth Rollins.
30:06I can't believe Seth Rollins has that attack right now.
30:09Rolls through. Shoulders down to advance and a kick out.
30:14Went for the super kick.
30:17Oh there's that ripcord knee.
30:19Rollins just falls into the cover.
30:21To advance to the finals of the World Cup and Ziggler with the shoulder up.
30:25So even McIntyre looking on a little frustrated.
30:29Probably relieved that Dolph Ziggler was able to survive the ripcord knee.
30:33Maybe hoping that was the last gasp that Rollins had inside.
30:37Let's take one more look at this.
30:39Spins out. Bang. Connects.
30:41Right on the cheekbone of Dolph Ziggler.
30:47Could you imagine what it would be like for Seth Rollins to be able to walk away as the best in the world?
30:51Given the turmoil he was in.
30:52From everything with the members of the Shield.
30:54Certainly boost Rollins confidence.
30:56Rollins prides himself on being the workhorse here in WWE.
31:00Would love to know that he is in fact the best in the world.
31:03You know what time it is.
31:05Could be time.
31:07McIntyre gets.
31:09McIntyre and Dolph Ziggler now.
31:11And now it's Ziggler.
31:13Lost over the top rope to the floor.
31:19McIntyre.
31:21McIntyre urging Dolph to get it together.
31:32Seth saw the opening.
31:34And went after it.
31:37Can the Kingslayer close the deal?
31:43Great agility by Rollins on the fly.
31:47Seth is out.
31:48Deep cradle.
31:50Almost had him and a kick out at two.
31:52Incredible match.
31:59Two of the best in-ring performers of our generation right now.
32:03Showing the world exactly why they belong in this tournament.
32:07Rollins able to adapt in mid-air.
32:10But not in time to stop the Famouser.
32:12Ziggler nearly escapes with a win.
32:15These two superstars know each other so well.
32:18Battling over the Intercontinental Championship.
32:20The Raw Tag Team Championships.
32:22And that's why they're going the distance here tonight.
32:24They can stake out each other's every move.
32:28What Ziggler thinking about here.
32:32Not completely uncharacteristic.
32:34But you don't see Dolph up top too often.
32:37Not necessarily his milieu.
32:39And now Rollins going to meet Dolph.
32:41Right over there.
32:42Dolph Rollins looking for the super flex.
32:44Rolls through.
32:46Rollins for the falcon.
32:48Zigzag.
32:50Zigzag.
32:52Seth Rollins clutching his neck there.
32:54To advance to the finals.
32:56And a kick out by Rollins.
32:58Wow.
33:00Two of the toughest men in WWE.
33:03What a series of maneuvers and counters.
33:06And high impact.
33:08First Rollins catches Ziggler.
33:10Who went up top.
33:12Not unfamiliar.
33:14Rollins is very very comfortable up there.
33:17Makes Ziggler pay.
33:19But Ziggler escapes at the last possible second.
33:21And delivers a zigzag.
33:23Which somehow Rollins survives.
33:26This has been an incredible match.
33:28For the opportunity to advance to the finals of the World Cup.
33:31To determine the best in the world and face The Miz.
33:38Ziggler once again looking for the zigzag.
33:40Rollins able to hang on though.
33:42Kick right to the jaw.
33:44Seth Rollins now.
33:46McIntyre driven into the barricade.
33:48Off the suicide dive.
33:50And now Seth going up to the top rope.
33:52Ziggler's going to meet him there.
33:55Rollins able to stop it.
33:57Ziggler's ankle.
33:59And McIntyre.
34:01McIntyre.
34:03Dolph Ziggler drew the referee with a bad ankle.
34:05McIntyre got involved.
34:07Here's the cover by Dolph.
34:08And he advances.
34:12Here is your winner.
34:14Dolph Ziggler.
34:16Well again chalk up a victory.
34:19With the aid of Drew McIntyre.
34:23Dolph Ziggler is in the finals.
34:26Listen I understand what Seth Rollins was attempting to do.
34:29Seth was simply trying to neutralize the threat of Drew McIntyre.
34:33Before he could become a factor.
34:35And it backfired.
34:36McIntyre again.
34:38Pays dividends.
34:40For Dolph Ziggler.
34:42Ziggler all the way up top with Rollins.
34:44Seth would avoid.
34:46Dolph's attempt.
34:48McIntyre however.
34:50Sends the Kingslayer flying.
34:52Halfway across the ring.
34:54Dolph.
34:56Boom.
34:58Super kick.
35:00The ankle injury diversion paid off.
35:02Just long enough.
35:04And Ziggler is heading to the finals.
35:06Drew McIntyre said he would make sure that Dolph Ziggler would be crowned the best in the world.
35:12And he was the factor tonight.
35:15Dolph Ziggler heads to the finals of the World Cup.
35:19Where he'll take on The Miz.
35:23Dolph.
35:25Dolph understanding that the referee's decision is final.
35:27It doesn't seem fair that you would advance to the finals of the WWE World Cup tournament.
35:32But one way or the other.
35:33Many people would say that your win tonight was a huge upset.
35:39An upset?
35:41One way or another that's what you're saying?
35:43I've been saying the same thing for 13 years.
35:46Day in and day out.
35:48You never believed in me.
35:50No one in this arena believed in me.
35:52No one in the WWE universe ever gave a damn about Dolph Ziggler.
35:56But guess what?
35:58The next time you see me in that ring.
36:01I'll be holding my trophy.
36:03Because I am the best in the world.
36:13Well what this does is it sets up a very interesting finals matchup for the World Cup.
36:19To determine the best in the world.
36:21Because there is a tremendous amount of history between The Miz and Dolph Ziggler.
36:26Long time friends.
36:28Have traveled together.
36:30Have trained together.
36:32Have battled alongside and against one another.
36:34But now it comes down for the right to be called the best in the world.
36:39We constantly talk about the spirit of competition.
36:42The friendship between Dolph Ziggler and The Miz.
36:44But I do not think that that's going to come into play tonight.
36:46And we've got the best in the world on the line.
36:49The Miz and Dolph Ziggler in the finals.
36:51And we'll be back in a moment with the WWE Championship match.
36:56On Sunday, April 7th, 2019.
37:01History waits for no one.
37:05So why should you?
37:25Welcome to Wrestlemania.
37:36Tickets available two weeks.
37:42Well yes, Wrestlemania returns to New York City and MetLife Stadium next April.
37:46Tickets available to the general public in two weeks from today, November 16th.
37:50But this coming Monday, you can go to WrestlemaniaTravel.com
37:53And you can, well, get your trip set for New York City
37:57As part of the Wrestlemania travel package.
38:00Again, WrestlemaniaTravel.com
38:03You don't want to miss the biggest event of the year.
38:05Well, ladies and gentlemen, coming up right now, it's about the WWE Championship.
38:09It is one of the most personal and professional rivalries
38:12That we have ever witnessed on SmackDown.
38:15It is AJ Styles, the reigning WWE Champion.
38:19And his bitter enemy, the challenger, Samoa Joe.
38:21It's about the WWE Championship.
38:29It is all about the WWE Championship.
38:34It is one thing to play mind games with your opponent
38:38To gain a psychological advantage.
38:41Oh, Randy!
38:44It is another to terrorize another man's family.
38:47I made you a promise. Daddy was coming home.
38:53It looks like he's not.
38:57At Crown Jewel, it will be AJ Styles
39:01Defending the WWE title against Daniel Bryan.
39:05Here comes the commissioner of SmackDown Live.
39:09We're going to have AJ Styles
39:13Taking on Daniel Bryan
39:15In the Crown Jewel WWE Championship Match.
39:22Right now.
39:24The WWE Championship Match at Crown Jewel has come early.
39:34To disqualify Daniel Bryan.
39:41What an extraordinary match.
39:45Between two incredible athletes.
39:52Oh my God!
39:54Where did Samoa Joe come from?
40:01Samoa Joe has made no secret.
40:04He desires to be WWE Champion.
40:09AJ, shouldn't you be in the trainers?
40:12I want Samoa Joe.
40:13I filled my obligation.
40:15Defending my WWE Championship against Daniel Bryan.
40:18Now give me Samoa Joe at Crown Jewel.
40:20Consider it done.
40:22Thank you. You won't regret it.
40:24Samoa Joe will.
40:28Go away, Jay.
40:31Did you actually think we were done?
40:35There's no shortage of history between Joe and Styles.
40:39I knew I had to pick up my pen.
40:41And I had to write our final chapter.
40:44This needs to end.
40:47An uncontrollable and personal rivalry.
40:50In our final chapter.
40:52You are left gasping on the ground.
40:54Clutched out.
40:56This will be a war.
40:58A rivalry set to be renewed.
41:00Samoa Joe and Styles.
41:02Will this be the end of AJ Styles reign?
41:05Or will it be the final chapter in this rivalry?
41:07And I am finally raising the WWE Championship above my head.
41:13The end.
41:30Renee, can Samoa Joe make this any more personal with AJ Styles?
41:34Absolutely not.
41:36I tried to get a word with Samoa Joe earlier.
41:38Asked him about his actions on Smackdown Live.
41:40Going to Coquina Clutch.
41:42On Daniel Bryan.
41:44On AJ Styles.
41:46Clearly sending a message.
41:48And he just stormed right past me with a gruesome smile on his face.
41:50Samoa Joe stomping in the ring as ferocious as ever.
41:54I actually was able to sit down with Samoa Joe.
41:56And got a few words from him.
41:58I said, why will tonight be different?
42:00He said, because each time I've stepped through the ring with AJ Styles,
42:02I've taken a piece of him with me.
42:04There's not enough left to do it again.
42:06This rivalry has been going on since Summerslam.
42:09When I saw AJ Styles after their matchup at Super Showdown,
42:12I just couldn't believe the damage that was inflicted on the WWE Champion.
42:16But yet he stood tall, retaining the gold.
42:32Samoa Joe!
42:34Samoa Joe!
42:36Samoa Joe!
42:38Samoa Joe!
42:40Samoa Joe!
42:42Samoa Joe!
42:44Samoa Joe!
42:46Samoa Joe!
42:48Samoa Joe!
42:50Samoa Joe!
42:52Samoa Joe!
42:54Samoa Joe!
42:56Samoa Joe!
42:58Samoa Joe!
43:00Samoa Joe!
43:02Samoa Joe!
43:04It has been an historic reign as WWE Champion for AJ Styles.
43:10He is a two-time champion.
43:12In this latest reign, he has held the title for 360 days.
43:19It is the 10th longest reign of any WWE Champion.
43:23And if he wins tonight, he'll be the 9th longest title holder.
43:28I heard Booker T say earlier on the Crown Jewel Kickoff show
43:32that he talked to AJ Styles and said,
43:34you better get into WWE.
43:36Start making your impact now.
43:38And there's this question,
43:40that ever since the Phenomenal One stepped foot in WWE,
43:42he's been doing just that.
43:44You know, Corey, it's interesting.
43:46Nearly a year into his title reign,
43:48and this coming week, SmackDown Live returns to Manchester,
43:52United Kingdom, where last year,
43:54that's where AJ Styles won.
43:55That's where AJ Styles won the WWE title.
43:58On his ringside, I remember it fondly,
44:00one of the most emotional moments I can remember being a part of.
44:04Styles has since worn the WWE Championship
44:07as proudly as any man can ever hold it.
44:11Today pointed out to me moments ago, Corey,
44:13that we have to watch the knee issues of Samoa Joe
44:16in this match tonight.
44:18We talked about what Jeff Hardy inflicted on Samoa Joe as well.
44:23He certainly was focusing on the knee issues.
44:25That's what he did to Samoa Joe.
44:27You're absolutely right.
44:29If there's a weakness to be found in the game of Samoa Joe,
44:31that could be it.
44:33There is wear and tear on the body of Joe.
44:35The same can be said for the champion.
44:40The following contest,
44:42skipper for one fall is for
44:44the WWE Championship!
44:49Introducing the challenger,
44:51from Huntington Beach, California,
44:52weighing in at 282 pounds,
44:56Samoa Joe!
45:06And his opponent,
45:08from Gainesville, Georgia,
45:10weighing in at 218 pounds,
45:14he is the WWE Champion,
45:19the phenomenal,
45:22AJ Styles!
45:26You see the look on the face of AJ Styles.
45:29He demanded this match tonight against Samoa Joe.
45:33He said, quote,
45:35I was proud of the title match I had with Daniel Bryan on SmackDown.
45:38The match centered on skill and athleticism.
45:41Joe's attack was not that.
45:44He got his wish.
45:46I'm going to put him out tonight.
45:48I think that was a smart idea from the WWE Champion.
45:52To demand a match with Samoa Joe?
45:54Absolutely not.
45:56I don't think in any walk of life that's ever a wise decision.
45:58But Styles is coming out of the gate fast and strong.
46:01And Samoa Joe covering up
46:03and has to try to survive the emotional onslaught.
46:05From the early going,
46:07and right to the knee,
46:09the back of the knee goes Styles.
46:11It felt like I heard it pop from here.
46:13AJ Styles certainly did his homework.
46:15Recalls what went down in Australia at the Super Showdown.
46:16Well, remember, that was a no disqualification,
46:18no count out match that Samoa Joe went through a table.
46:21And that is where the knee is.
46:23And now right to the back of the knee again.
46:25And AJ Styles goes to work.
46:27AJ has certainly been a step ahead of Joe here in the early moments.
46:31It is why he demanded the matchup.
46:33He had a plan the entire time.
46:35And look at Samoa Joe trying to beg off the attack here by Styles.
46:38This has just gotten so personal between these two superstars.
46:42If AJ is able to shut down Joe tonight, they could be done.
46:44I mean, come on.
46:46When you target a man's family,
46:48you bring the family into discussion
46:50when it's a sporting event.
46:52It's about the WWE Championship.
46:54How do you expect AJ Styles to react?
46:56Showing up at a man's house.
46:58It's psychological warfare.
47:00It's doing what needs to be done in the mind of Samoa Joe.
47:02Corey, you can't even...
47:04I'm not justifying it by any means.
47:06I'm simply telling you what goes on in the mind of Samoa Joe.
47:08And now AJ Styles off the apron.
47:10Samoa Joe.
47:12And got kicked right in the jaw.
47:14And now Styles moonsault off the apron.
47:16And Samoa Joe now.
47:18Driven into the post.
47:20And it has been all Styles.
47:22Joe has been so ineffective since the bell rung.
47:24This is kind of surprising.
47:26His knee must be just causing so much damage on his entire body.
47:30Yeah, but now...
47:32Oh, AJ Styles bounced off the barricade.
47:34What happened there was AJ Styles went back to the ring to break the count.
47:38Does not want to win the count out tonight.
47:41He wants to beat down Samoa Joe.
47:42That tactic caught AJ Styles there.
47:45Dealing with a superstar like Samoa Joe, you can't let pride get in the way.
47:49AJ needs to escape with his championship by any means possible.
47:56And now Joe back into the ring.
47:58Remember, Joe, though, has to pin or submit Styles.
48:03A count out does not allow Joe to win the championship.
48:06Champion's advantage.
48:08And Joe with a knee driving Styles right back down to the floor.
48:11What we're seeing is classic Samoa Joe.
48:13Uh-oh, wait a minute.
48:15Look out.
48:17Come on!
48:19And AJ hit hard.
48:21AJ hit hard.
48:23His elbow driven into the announce table.
48:25His ribs as well.
48:27The official quickly down to check on the champion.
48:29And now they look.
48:31The demeanor of Samoa Joe has changed since he delivered that blow.
48:35I don't think Styles can catch a breath.
48:37He got the wind knocked out of him.
48:39Earth-shaking impact.
48:41Styles almost sent through the table courtesy of a Samoa Joe dive.
48:45And now Joe cover for the championship.
48:47And Styles kicks out.
48:49What I started to say, this is classic Samoa Joe.
48:52This is the trademark.
48:54Let's take one more look at this.
48:56Nearly 300 pounds.
48:58Oh, God! Right on the edge of the announce table.
49:00Pay attention to AJ Styles' rib cage.
49:02Right on the point of the table.
49:04Driven into the ribs of Styles.
49:05I wouldn't be shocked at all if Styles didn't have a cracked rib or two right now after that impact.
49:10But Samoa Joe weathered the early emotional onslaught of AJ Styles.
49:15Joe is that tough of a human.
49:17He could survive that and change the tide in just one move.
49:20AJ better get back to his initial game plan quickly.
49:23It's pretty incredible when you think about what Styles has accomplished.
49:26To hold the WWE Championship for nearly a year.
49:30It will be one year next week.
49:32Look out!
49:33Samoa Joe looking to end that reign here tonight.
49:35And he may have done it right there.
49:37Hooks the inside leg and it allows Styles to put his leg on the bottom rope to force the break.
49:44Great ring awareness by the veteran Styles.
49:47Not to exert any more energy.
49:49It's a lot more difficult to push Samoa Joe's entire body weight off your shoulders than use the bottom rope.
49:54It was a smart move.
49:58And now the trash talking begins for the challenger Joe.
50:03AJ is going to have to temper his rage.
50:06He lets Joe under his skin any more than he already has.
50:09That could be it.
50:11We could see a new WWE Champion tonight.
50:13Right now AJ can be as rageful as he wants.
50:15Samoa Joe is in complete control.
50:17Now Joe just mocking and taunting the WWE fans as Styles again looks to fight back.
50:23But a vicious chop drops Styles in the middle of the ring.
50:26Turned Styles inside out.
50:28This match for the WWE Championship.
50:31Later on tonight we are guaranteed to crown a new Universal Champion.
50:37On Monday Night Raw it will be either Brock Lesnar or Braun Strowman.
50:41Right now Samoa Joe using all of his body weight wearing down AJ Styles.
50:48Samoa Joe has had his heart set, his eyes set on that WWE Championship since day one with WWE.
50:54Samoa Joe and AJ Styles exchanging blows center of the ring.
50:59Styles misses wildly.
51:01Joe with another vicious chop.
51:09And look at Joe go.
51:12And AJ with a step up enziguri.
51:15And Joe's down and Styles down.
51:18Styles has bought himself some valuable time.
51:20But Samoa Joe is the man.
51:21Where a bigger superstar is actually favored the deeper the match goes.
51:24Samoa Joe's endurance and cardio is freakish.
51:27Let's take a look at these.
51:29Like a grizzly bear pawing at Styles.
51:31Styles out of the way just in time.
51:33To buy some time with a well placed kick.
51:36A kick right to the ear.
51:38Dropped Joe.
51:40But Joe almost back up to a vertical base before the champion.
51:44Neck and neck fight.
51:45But Joe almost back up to a vertical base before the champion.
51:49Neck and neck here.
51:51Styles gets there a fraction of a second before.
51:56Now Styles with a chop.
52:02Knife edge chops from Joe are absolutely thunderous.
52:06Uh oh.
52:08Styles looking for the Styles clash perhaps.
52:10Hasn't fared well for AJ in the past.
52:12Joe's a little bit too big.
52:15AJ second rope.
52:17Oh!
52:19Down goes Joe.
52:21Cover by Styles and a kick out.
52:23Down goes Joe.
52:25Cover by Styles and a kick out.
52:27Down goes Joe.
52:29Cover by Styles and a kick out.
52:30Cover by Styles and a kick out.
52:40Samoa Joe doing the wise thing.
52:42Rolling to the outside to compose himself.
52:46The WWE Universe rallying behind the champion, Styles.
52:53Even this deep into the match, Renee.
52:55Do you think AJ wants to change strategy?
52:57Or does he stick with forcing the power?
52:58Oh!
53:00Delivering the forearm as he launches himself over the top rope.
53:02I think AJ might have to stick with some old tricks.
53:04He knows what can work against Samoa Joe.
53:06He's had victories over him before.
53:08He can stick to that game plan which we're getting to right now.
53:11AJ looking for perhaps the phenomenal forearm as he launches himself off the second rope.
53:15Joe able to duck underneath.
53:17Once again Samoa Joe.
53:19Power slam.
53:21Cover to win the championship.
53:23Two and a half almost had him.
53:25That point to counter it, Renee.
53:26Every move AJ Styles is about to make.
53:28Almost before Styles makes it.
53:30What an impact on AJ Styles' body.
53:33The speed with which Joe just drove Styles' body down to the mat.
53:38It was horrific.
53:41Kick right to the back of Joe's knee.
53:43To this point in the match.
53:45Oh!
53:47And Styles landed hard on his back.
53:49That is it.
53:51Cover now by Joe and a kick out by AJ.
53:53How the hell did Styles kick out?
53:54Turned inside out.
53:56Landed on the back of his neck.
53:58I have no idea how the champions fought through that one.
54:01That was one of the most brutal lariats I have ever seen.
54:05Let's take another look.
54:07That'll make Stan Hansen blush.
54:10I can't believe Styles survived that.
54:13The last time I heard a club to the body like that was these two at Super Showdown in Melbourne, Australia.
54:18AJ and Joe down middle of the ring for the WWE Championship.
54:25We are sold out tonight at Crown Jewel.
54:31Samoa Joe back to his feet.
54:34Styles back to his feet as well.
54:36Uh-oh, Styles once again looking for the calf crusher.
54:38Can he get it locked in on Joe?
54:40Looking for the calf crusher now.
54:42AJ Styles!
54:44Joe's got much thicker legs than a usual superstar.
54:46It could help him as far as buying some time goes.
54:49But this is incredibly agonizing.
54:51Especially on the injured knee.
54:53Joe gets it to the rope and gonna force the break.
55:00Joe's lower body just been beaten apart by Styles.
55:05What's the mark of a champion?
55:07AJ Styles knew coming into this battle that he requested what weak spots, if any, exist in the armor of Samoa Joe.
55:13It's the knee and Styles is doing his best.
55:24And look at Styles from behind.
55:26O'Connor roll succeeds.
55:28Cover!
55:30It's in!
55:32Joe just like that locks the clutch in on AJ Styles, the champion with nowhere to go.
55:38Will he tap out? Will he pass out?
55:40Will Joe win his first WWE title?
55:43This has put Styles to sleep on numerous occasions.
55:46Look at this though, the bad leg!
55:49AJ Styles now torturing Joe!
55:52What a great counter by AJ Styles!
55:54And Joe makes it to the ropes!
55:58It was a desperate situation for the champion, but great, great awareness to grab the injured knee of Samoa Joe.
56:06Forcing Joe to break the coquina clutch, thus preserving Styles' title a bit longer.
56:11This has been a relentless and vicious attack on Joe's lower body by the champion AJ Styles.
56:19Styles once again looking for the calf crusher.
56:22Joe hanging on in the corner.
56:25Elbows back of the neck in the upper back of Styles in that rope.
56:29Oh and Pele kick!
56:31Right between the eyes of Samoa Joe.
56:33Both men giving it their absolute all for their right to be called WWE champion.
56:46Now AJ launched out to the apron.
56:49Oh and a big right hand!
56:51Joe on spaghetti legs, Styles could be perched.
56:55Here it comes!
56:57This is it!
56:58To retain the championship!
57:00Got him!
57:02AJ Styles!
57:04Here is your winner and still the WWE champion, the phenomenal AJ Styles!
57:18I'll tell you, it has been an unbelievable title reign for AJ Styles.
57:22Closing in on one year.
57:24Closing in on one year!
57:27360 days as champion!
57:31And once again, the wolf in Samoa Joe came knocking at the door.
57:37But the WWE champion defended his title and the house that AJ Styles built.
57:46What a phenomenal effort by the champion and much respect to Samoa Joe for bringing the big fight.
57:55Joe taking it high risk, throwing everything he had and then some at the champion.
58:02But Styles would not be denied.
58:08In the end, the familiar sight soaring through the sky.
58:13A phenomenal forearm found its mark.
58:17And drove away the threat that is Samoa Joe once more.
58:24A triumphant champion, AJ Styles.
58:29On top of the world from SmackDown Live.
58:34Coming up next, we guarantee we will crown a new universal champion.