Live from Allstate Arena | Chicago, IL | Crowd Size: 18,500
SEGMENT ONE
Dynamite opens with a shot of BWM Inc. Chairman and AEW World Heavyweight Champion Sami Zayn behind a cluttered desk, his eyes bloodshot and darting around the room. His fingers are nervously tapping the desk, and his hair is disheveled. There’s an unmistakable aura of paranoia surrounding him. Suddenly the door swings open, and Sami jumps before breathing a sigh of relief as Megan Mouse-Zayn enters the room, visibly frustrated.
Megan Mouse-Zayn: There you are! I’ve been looking all over for you all afternoon.
Sami Zayn: [startled, looking over his shoulder as if he’s expecting an ambush] I-I came in early. Had to. Couldn’t risk being seen. They’re everywhere, Megan… waiting for me to slip up.
Megan Mouse-Zayn: [sighing] “They?” You’re not seriously telling me this is about that ridiculous curse from Danhausen, are you?
Sami Zayn: [eyes widening, voice trembling] Ridiculous? You think this is a joke? Look what happened to Jeff Murrey! He was a great man before the curse. Then he started having panic attacks every day, Megan-every day! His son abandoned him, just walked out! And WWE… they’ve been in shambles since the draft! It’s like this curse just sucks the life out of everything it touches. I don’t know if it’s some sort of dark magic, or if it just burrows into your mind, but I’m not taking my chances. Not with everything we’ve built together at stake.
Megan crosses her arms, glaring at Sami with a look of disbelief and frustration, and perhaps even a little disgust.
Megan Mouse-Zayn: You’re letting this curse nonsense go to your head. But fine, you go ahead and hide in the office all night, but I’m going to use tonight to deal with Liv Morgan.
Sami Zayn: [confused, defensive] Liv? Why? She saved my ass last week when she found Ali Mills! Thanks to her – and to the Street Sharks – Lawrence isn’t going to be a threat to us anymore.
Megan Mouse-Zayn: [snapping] Did you not see how she talked to me last week? She disrespected me to my face, Sami… to my face! Don’t even get me started with all her flirting with you. It’s humiliating!
Sami Zayn: [pleading, trying to calm her] I know Liv can come across… intense… but she’s on our side! We need all the allies we can get right now, especially with everyone out to get me.
Megan Mouse:-Zayn [raising her voice] You’re seriously taking her side right now! Unbelievable. After everything she’s done, you’re defending her? No, Sami, Liv needs to be taught a lesson tonight, and I’m not changing my mind. She’s got her first match against the Native Beast Nyla Rose.
Sami Zayn: [desperate] Megan, please. You have to reconsider. We’ve got so many enemies, and so few friends. We need a friend like Liv. I can’t afford to lose another ally, not with this curse hanging over my head!
Megan Mouse-Zayn: [furious, cutting him off] You’re the one with the enemies, Sami. Because you can’t help yourself! You’ve got to have your nose into everything. I told you, we had too many irons in the fire and you refused to listen. You’re walking a dangerous path, the type of path that’s going to cause this whole house of cards to collapse. Liv needs to be taken down a peg. To be put in her place. And that’s what I’ve asked Nyla to do to her tonight.
Sami reaches out, his voice softer, trying one last time to soothe Megan and change her mind.
Sami Zayn: Megan, just think about this for a second…
Megan Mouse-Zayn: [coldly] I need some air.
Megan doesn’t wait for a response. She storms out, slamming the door behind her with a force that rattles the room. Sami flinches, left alone, his paranoia and anxiety evident. The camera lingers on his distressed expression as the screen fades to black.
Arn Anderson and Kevin Kelly welcome us back to Dynamite, as All Elite Wrestling returns to the heartland for the first time since launching season three. We’re sold out tonight in Chicago, and we’ve got a huge main event set as the number one contender Brock Lesnar prepares to do battle with High Minded’s Matt Riddle! Anderson says Riddle loves to have a good time, but when the time comes, he’s also always ready for a fight. The two UFC veterans collide tonight for the first time ever in our main event! Kevin Kelly says plus, as we’ve just learned, Liv Morgan is making her in-ring debut tonight against the Native Beast Nyla Rose! All of that and so much more, as we send it to Jane Mouse for our opening contest!
Match #1 | Exhibition Match
Beer Money, Inc. (Robert Roode & James Storm) vs. F.T.R. (Dash Wilder & Scott Dawson)
Before the introductions are made, the Acclaimed’s music hits and the AEW Tag Team Champions make their way out, taking a seat at the commentary booth.
Arn Anderson: Well, I gotta say, fellas, I’m a little disappointed. No rap tonight? What do we owe this pleasure of the tag team champions joining us on commentary?
Max Caster: [leaning forward, expression serious] We’re not in the mood to joke around tonight, Arn. We’re out here because of something you idiots said on Chaos.
Kevin Kelly: “Idiots,” huh? What exactly are you talking about, Max?
Max Caster: You said the tag division is stacked. But let’s be real—teams like FTR, Beer Money, A-Town Down Under, and the Street Sharks are nowhere near The Acclaimed’s level.
Anthony Bowens: We’re the champs for a reason, Kevin. Everyone else? They’re just trying to bask in our spotlight.
Arn Anderson: [defensive] Hey, if we struck a nerve, I apologize. But I would think you’d want to be a part of the greatest tag division in the industry.
Kevin Kelly: [attempting to mediate] You can’t deny that competition brings out the best in everyone. Teams like Beer Money and FTR—they’re great tag teams.
Max Caster: [interupting] They’re not great, Kevin. They’re PWI rejects.
Kevin Kelly: [shaking his head] I’m gonna have to respectfully disagree on that one.
The bell rings as Scott Dawson starts the match against Robert Roode. The two men lock up in the center of the ring, each trying to gain the early advantage. Dawson powers Roode into the corner, but Roode quickly reverses, pinning Dawson against the turnbuckle. The referee calls for a clean break, and Roode slowly backs off, only to deliver a sharp slap to Dawson’s chest.
Kevin Kelly: Robert Roode is trying to get into the head of Scott Dawson.
Arn Anderson: You can never underestimate the mind games.
Dawson grins, shaking off the slap as he circles Roode. They lock up again, and this time Dawson uses a side headlock to bring Roode down to the mat. Roode fights his way back up, sending Dawson into the ropes. On the rebound, Roode drops down, leapfrogs over Dawson, and catches him with a perfectly timed dropkick. Dawson stumbles back, and Roode tags in James Storm.
Kevin Kelly: Smart tag by Roode. They’re keeping each other fresh.
Storm enters the ring and immediately begins laying into Dawson with heavy right hands. He backs Dawson into the corner, climbs to the second rope, and starts delivering ten punches as the crowd counts along. Dawson slips out from under Storm on the eighth punch, grabs him by the waist, and hits a brutal spinebuster, dropping Storm hard in the center of the ring.
Dawson crawls towards his corner and tags in Dash Wilder. Wilder enters with fire, immediately taking Storm down with a clothesline. Storm pops back up, only to eat another clothesline. Wilder grabs Storm, whips him into the ropes, and catches him with a snap powerslam on the rebound. Wilder cover, but Storm kicks out at two!
Wilder pulls Storm to his feet and sends him into the corner. He charges in, but Storm gets a boot up, catching Wilder on the jaw. Storm leaps to his corner and tags in Roode. Roode comes in like a house on fire, knocking Wilder down with a series of hard punches. He then hits a neckbreaker and goes for a quick cover. This time it’s Wilder who kicks out at two.
Roode signals to Storm, and the two set up for their finisher, the DWI (Drinking While Investing). As they lift Wilder, Dawson rushes in and breaks it up, delivering a forearm to Storm that sends him crashing to the mat. Roode throws Wilder down and goes after Dawson, but Wilder rolls him up from behind… Roode kicks out!
As Roode and Wilder get to their feet, Roode connects with a hard knee to Wilder’s gut, then follows up with a spinebuster. Roode tags in Storm again, and they prepare for another double-team move. Storm lifts Wilder for a suplex as Roode hits the ropes for extra momentum.
Before Roode can connect, Dawson pulls Wilder down from Storm’s grasp, and the two begin to brawl with Beer Money in the center of the ring. The referee tries to restore order as all four men exchange punches. Wilder manages to send Roode over the top rope with a clothesline, while Dawson tackles Storm to the mat. The Revival is back in control.
Suddenly, The Acclaimed jump up from the commentary table, tossing their headsets aside. They rush toward the ring, clearly looking to interfere and make a statement. But Dawson and Wilder spot them just in time. Wilder slides out of the ring and delivers a dropkick through the ropes, taking out Max Caster. Meanwhile, Dawson pulls Bowens into the ring and sends him crashing into the turnbuckle with a hard Irish whip.
Kevin Kelly: FTR saw it coming this time!
With The Acclaimed neutralized, FTR turn their attention back to Beer Money. Storm, dazed, stumbles right into Dawson and Wilder, who set him up for the Shatter Machine. They hit it perfectly in the center of the ring!
Wilder covers Storm as Dawson knocks Roode off the apron to prevent the save. 1… 2…. 3!!!
FTR stand tall in the ring, celebrating their victory as The Acclaimed seethe on the outside, frustrated at their failed interference.
Winners: F.T.R. (Scott Dawson and Dash Wilder)
Match Time: 14:09
The scene ends with FTR standing victorious, staring down The Acclaimed as the show cuts to a commercial.
SEGMENT TWO
In High Minded’s locker room, Kevin Nash, Randy Savage, Scott Hall, Matt Riddle, and Midget Hogan are huddled around the TV, as they focus intensely on a PlayStation game. Their attention shifts from the TV as the door swings open, and Hulk Hogan enters holding a stack of papers.
Matt Riddle: [glancing up from the game] Yo, Hulkster! How’d the doctor’s appointment go, bro?
Hogan grins and scratches his head.
Hulk Hogan: It went well, brother. Got some unexpected news, too…
Randy Savage: [leaning forward] Oh yeah? What’d the doc tell ya, Hulk?
Hulk Hogan: [proudly] He said I could masturbate anytime I want!
The room goes silent for a beat. Savage grabs the papers from Hogan’s hands, skimming them quickly before his eyes widen.
Randy Savage: [yelling] You idiot! This says you could stroke out at any moment!
Hulk Hogan: [confused] What’s the difference, brother?
The room erupts into laughter as Savage shakes his head in disbelief.
Matt Riddle: [trying to change the subject] So, Midget Hogan, you gonna say yes to Lady Love’s proposal or what?
Midget Hogan: [thoughtfully] I’ve been giving it a lot of thought. I’m hoping to make my mind up soon.
Matt Riddle: [scoffing] Can’t believe you’re seriously considering marrying the original Hawk Tuah girl, dude.
Midget Hogan: [growing irritated] I’m getting real tired of your little digs, Riddle. Maybe you’ll learn some respect tonight when you face Brock Lesnar.
Matt Riddle: [smirking] I’m not scared, bro.
Scott Hall, who’s been scrolling mindlessly through his phone, suddenly looks to Riddle.
Scott Hall: Hey yo, Riddle. Where are you shoes, chico?
Matt Riddle: [sheepishly] Oh, I accidentally left them in my girlfriend’s locker room Friday niight.
The guys perk up, intrigued by this new information.
Kevin Nash: [grinning] Okay Matt, quit holding out on us. Who is it?
Matt Riddle: [defensive] I told you guys, we’re not ready to go public yet.
Scott Hall looks up from his phone again, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
Scott Hall: Let me ask you boys something… you ever been to a paraplegic strip club?
Kevin Nash: [raising an eyebrow] Why would anyone want to go there?
Scott Hall: [deadpan] I heard they’re crawling with pussy!
The room bursts into laughter, everyone doubling over as the scene fades out.
Backstage, AEW correspondent Renee Young is standing by with the American Dragon Bryan Danielson.
Renee Young: Ladies and gentlemen, my guest at this time is the American Dragon Bryan Danielson. Bryan, you’ve got a match coming up next with Big Cass, but last week, you and Cody Rhodes tore the house down. You walked out the victor, thanks in no small part to the distraction from Sammy Guevara. Over the weekend, Johnny Quest praised your performance, but then called you the ‘man who won the right to lose to Will Ospreay’ at Aftershock. What are your thoughts on that?
Danielson scoffs, as his face conveys his annoyance with the question.
Bryan Danielson: Johnny Quest, huh? He hasn’t been relevant since I was a kid, and now he’s taking shots at me? That’s fine, Renee, because if I remember correctly, the pundits didn’t think I’d win the AEW World Heavyweight Championship at Dragon’s Fury either. They didn’t think I’d be the one to end AJ Styles’ 400-plus day reign as champion. But look how that all turned out.
Danielson takes a moment to reflect, letting the weight of his words settle in.
Bryan Danielson: I’m the man who proved them all wrong then, and at Aftershock, I’m going to do it again. Will Ospreay? Sure, he’s talented, but when it comes down to it, I’m the best wrestler alive. I’m going to send him packing back to Japan. That belt he holds? The IWGP Heavyweight Championship? It means less to me than the Internet Championship, and we all know that belt is worthless.
Daniel’s tone grows more intense as he steps closer to Renee, his eyes locked on the camera.
Bryan Danielson: I’ve been telling everyone all along that I’m the best in the world. Week after week, I go out there and prove it! So I gotta ask… when is everyone finally going to start listening?
Before Renee can respond, Kenny Omega approaches, looking concerned and somewhat desperate. He hesitates a moment before interrupting.
Kenny Omega: Bryan, man, I’m really sorry to interrupt. But, I need your help. It’s about Hangman…
Danielson rolls his eyes and lets out a sigh of frustration, clearly uninterested in Omega’s plea.
Bryan Danielson: Yeah, I saw what happened on Chaos… he really embarrassed himself, didn’t he? And yeah, it’s sad to see, but here’s the thing… this isn’t my problem. Last time I checked, you guys wanted nothing to do with me. All because I had an opportunity at AJ Styles and I took it. I did what any wrestler in my position would do, and suddenly I’m the bad guy?
Kenny’s expression grows more desperate as he tries to appeal to whatever friendship the two once shared.
Kenny Omega: Bryan… please… he’s not in a good place, and I can’t reach him. I need your help.
Danielson shakes his head, his expression hardening as he takes a few steps back.
Bryan Danielson: You want my advice? Cut him loose! You’ve spent the last 13 months tethered to him, and what have you gotten for it? The pundits used to call you a future world champion… a future first round draft pick… Do what I did, and take your opportunities when life grants them to you. Let him destroy himself and finally start living up to your potential…
Kenny Omega: Bryan, com’n man, I can’t just let…
Danielson cuts him off.
Bryan Danielson: It’s too late, Kenny. Whatever friendship we all had, it’s in the past. It’s over. You made that perfectly clear to me. You can deal with the drunk on your own. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a match to win.
Danielson turns and begins to walk away, leaving Omega looking dejected.
Kenny Omega: Bryan, please!
Danielson doesn’t look back. The camera lingers on Omega’s face for a moment before Renee Young sends us back to ringside!
At ringside, Arn Anderson says he’s just learned that this Friday night on Chaos, we’ll here from the former advocate to Brock Lesnar, and special counsel to Roman Reigns – Paul Heyman, for the first time since Roman Reigns lost to Lesnar in a number one contender’s match last month! Kelly says we’ve only seen Reigns once since then, so he’s eagerly awaiting whatever update Heyman has on the Tribal Chief.
Match # 2 | Exhibition Match
Bryan Danielson vs. Big Cass
Kevin Kelly: Bryan Danielson has been riding a wave of momentum ever since that big win over Cody Rhodes last week. But tonight, Big Cass is looking to make an impression in his first match with All Elite Wrestling.
Arn Anderson: Cass has all the physical tools to be a force here in AEW, but Danielson is as crafty as they come. Win, lose, or draw tonight, though, I’m telling you right now, Danielson and Ospreay are going to steal the show at Aftershock.
The bell sounds and Danielson and Cass lock up. Cass quickly muscles Danielson into the corner, using his size advantage to overpower him. Danielson, undeterred, lands a volley of sharp leg kicks, trying to chop the giant down to size. He then follows up with mounted punches in the corner, delivering precise strikes to Cass’s head.
Kevin Kelly: Danielson’s got to keep Cass off balance. The moment Cass gets control, it’s going to be tough for Danielson to battle back.
Arn Anderson: And speaking of balance, what we saw moments ago with Omega trying to get Danielson to help him with Hangman… I hate to say it, but I agree with Danielson. Omega can’t have it both ways. He told Danielson he wanted nothing to do with him—can’t expect the man to just jump when he’s in trouble.
Cass shoves Danielson back to the middle of the ring, narrowly avoiding a heel hook attempt. Cass then uses his power to knock Danielson off the ring apron, sending him crashing into the barricade with a sickening thud.
Kevin Kelly: Oh! Danielson hit that barricade hard!
Arn Anderson: That’s the thing with Cass—he’s not just big, he’s explosive. Danielson has to be careful not to get caught in these power moves, or this match could be over in a hurry.
Kevin Kelly: What an upset it’d be if Cass pulls off the unthinkable here tonight.
Cass heads to the outside, picking up Danielson and dropping him hard onto the ring apron before rolling him back into the ring. Cass lands a series of stiff punches, then locks in a crushing bear hug, squeezing the life out of Danielson.
Danielson struggles, elbows out of the bear hug, but as soon as he breaks free, he eats a knee to the ribs from Cass, who refuses to let up. Danielson hits the ropes and charges, but Cass catches him mid-stride with a spinning side slam that shakes the ring.
Arn Anderson: Big Cass is controlling the pace, which is the last thing Danielson needs. He’s got to find a way to create some separation here.
Cass charges at Danielson in the corner, looking to crush him, but Danielson catches him with a drop toe hold, sending Cass face-first into the second turnbuckle. Sensing an opportunity, Danielson goes to work with a series of leg kicks, then follows up with a vicious dragon screw, focusing on Cass’s knee.
Cass rolls to the apron, but Danielson follows, slamming Cass’s knee into the apron with ruthless efficiency. Not satisfied, Danielson grabs Cass’s leg and slams it into the ring post two times, each impact echoing through the arena. He quickly ascends to the top rope, launching himself with a missile dropkick to Cass’s back!
Arn Anderson: This is where Danielson is so dangerous. He’ll pick you apart piece by piece, and before you know it, you’re done.
With Cass reeling, Danielson hits a series of corner dropkicks, then locks in the Yes! Lock. The crowd roars as Cass strains to reach the ropes, finally breaking the hold and rolling to the outside to regroup.
Danielson, sensing the momentum shift, kicks Cass into the barricade outside the ring, then climbs to the top turnbuckle and leaps, taking Cass out with a flying splash to the outside. The crowd explodes as both men crash to the floor!
The action returns to the ring, where Cass digs deep, hitting a super fall-away slam from the second rope for a close two-count. Not letting up, Cass hoists Danielson onto his shoulders, locking in a torture rack before flipping him to the mat for another two-count.
Frustrated, Cass goes for the torture rack again, but Danielson slips out, catching Cass with a chop block to his injured knee. With Cass vulnerable, Danielson connects with a series of Yes! Kicks.
Arn Anderson: Cass is on one leg now, which is exactly where the Dragon wants him!
Danielson gears up for the running knee, but as he charges, Cass counters with a massive big boot that nearly takes Danielson’s head off, earning another close two-count. Cass, determined, goes back to the torture rack, but Danielson wriggles free, landing on his feet and connecting with the Busaiku Knee out of nowhere!
Danielson, not wasting a moment, locks in the heel hook, wrenching Cass’s damaged knee. Cass fights, but the pain is too much—he has no choice but to tap out!
Danielson rises to his feet, his hand raised in victory. Cass, clutching his knee, rolls out of the ring in pain, but with respect from the audience for his valiant effort.
Winner: Bryan Danielson
Match Time: 15:33
Arn Anderson: Another big win for Bryan Danielson, but the real story is what happens at Aftershock. Danielson vs. Ospreay—that’s the match everyone’s talking about!
Kevin Kelly: You’re right, Arn. With momentum like this, Danielson’s going into Aftershock with all the confidence in the world. But against a talent like Will Ospreay, anything can happen. Folks, don’t go anywhere, we’ll be right back after this commercial break!
SEGMENT THREE
Backstage, Renee Young is once again standing by, this time with Spanish God Sammy Guevara!
Renee Young: I’m here with Sammy Guevara, who made quite the statement last week when he got involved in the match between Bryan Danielson and Cody Rhodes. Sammy, everyone’s wanting to know, why did you do it?
Sammy Guevara: Renee, to understand why I did what I did, we’ve gotta go back to November 28, 2022. That was the day everything changed for me. See, after being signed to BWM Inc. and then exempted in the draft that year, I was handed the chance to make a name for myself in the very first match of All Elite Wrestling. That was an opportunity that Benny Mouse gave to me, and one that I sort of took for granted. And guess who was standing across that ring from me on the first Dynamite? Cody Rhodes.
Sammy pauses, his voice growing more passionate.
Sammy Guevara: I went out there and gave it my all, and I took Cody to his limits. But one mistake… just one… cost me my shot. And after that? I floundered, Renee. I walked into the first episode of Dynamite feeling like a big shot, like a big deal. But that loss shook my confidence. Sure, Jericho took me under his wing in the Inner Circle, and I respect the hell out of him for that. But let’s be real, I was never going to be more than a background character in that role. As much as I love Jericho, I wasn’t the star of that show. I was just another body in the group.
He shakes his head, as if shaking off the memories.
Sami Guevara: Then this year, I got drafted to the ULW, and suddenly, Megan and Sami are trading four superstars just to get me back! At first I was confused… I mean, since Jericho left AEW, what have I done? Not much, right? But then I got a chance to sit down with Sami and Megan, and they told me something that changed everything.
Sammy looks directly into the camera, his tone confident and unwavering as he continues.
Sammy Guevara: They told me they see the same potential that Benny saw when he first signed me, and gave me that opportunity. They said they expected big things from me, but I needed to do something to set myself apart. And that’s when it hit me… I’ve been looking at this all wrong. I’ve been waiting for my opportunity, waiting for someone else to give me a chance, when I should have been taking it for myself.
He smirks slightly, the fire unmistakable in his eyes.
Sammy Guevara: So that’s what I did last week. I’m not waiting anymore, Renee. I’m taking what’s mine. Cody Rhodes… everyone keeps calling him a future world champion, but you know what? He’s not better than me. He’s never been better than me! People should be talking about the Spanish God, not some son of a plumber.
Sammy takes a step in, his voice low but firm.
Sammy Guevara: I’m going to right that wrong from the first Dynamite. And after that? I’m finding my way to gold. I don’t care what anyone thinks, Renee. I’m going to make the world believe in me, whether they like it or not!
Sammy lowers the microphone and walks off, as Renee says Sammy’s given everyone, most importantly Cody Rhodes, something to think about.
The camera follows the BWM Inc. Head of Security, the Big Boss Man, as he walks down the hall towards Sami Zayn’s office. Boss Man opens the door without knocking, and we see Sami Zayn still at his desk, the room dimly lit by the glow of his computer monitor. Sami is sat in the same position he was as the show came on the air, hunched over, looking disheveled and paranoid. Boss Man slowly enters, startled by what he sees.
Big Boss Man: [clutching his nightstick] Sami? What in the world are you doing sitting in the dark like this?
Sami Zayn: [jumps slightly, glaring at Boss Man] It’s the curse, Rob! It’s the damn curse! I was just sitting here, doing some paperwork, minding my own business, and boom! The lights went out. It’s got to be Danhausen!
Big Boss Man: [reaching for the light switch, flipping it on with no issues] Did… did you try the switch?
Sami Zayn: [exploding in frustration] Of course I dried the damn switch, Rob! Do you think I’m stupid? That I’m some sort of idiot?! What do you want anyways, I never told you that you could come in here.
Big Boss Man: [calmly] Easy, Sami. I just wanted to let you know, as per Megan’s request, I’ve scoured the building for Danhausen – he’s not here. In fact, none of your enemies are here. No MJF, no Logan Paul, no Johnny Lawrence, and certainly no Danhausen. Hell, Brock hasn’t even arrived for his match yet!
Sami Zayn: [relaxing a little bit] So… no Danhausen? And you’re sure of this?
Big Boss Man: [nods] I’m positive, sir. But that’s not the only reason I’m here… I was approached by Liv, and she asked me to give you a message since you’re not answering her calls…
Sami Zayn: [suspiciously] What does she want?
Big Boss Man: [clearing his throat, nervously] Remember, this comes from Liv, and NOT from me… but, she asked me to tell you to get your wife under control. She also said it’s important for you to know that she’s dedicating her match tonight to you, as a thank you for all you’ve done for her.
Sami Zayn: [throwing his hands up in exasperation] Why… why is she doing this me, Rob? What did I do to deserve this? She’s making my life so much harder than it already is. Why can’t she just get along with Megan? I’m starting to feel like she’s in on this curse!
Big Boss Man: [sighing, shaking his head] Respectfully, sir, you need to pull yourself together. The only curse around here is the one you’re putting on yourself, and it’s wrecking you! [Boss Man turns to leave, pausing at the doorway] And for the last time, my name is Boss Man, not Rob!
Boss Man leaves, as Sami sits behind his desk unfazed by Boss Man’s encouragements. The scene concludes with him looking as miserable and paranoid as ever.
Match #3 | No Disqualifications
Liv Morgan vs. Nyla Rose
As the introductions are made, Kevin Kelly informs us he’s just gotten word from Megan Mouse that this match is no disqualification! Anderson says Megan must really want to punish Liv Morgan in her first official match here in AEW, because Nyla is a beast and she’ll be even more fierce without the restrictions of a normal match.
The crowd erupts for Liv, excited to witness her in her AEW debut. Anderson notes that she’s surprisingly popular here in Chicago, but says he sort of understands it because how can you boo a woman who looks like that? On her way to the ring, Nyla Rose grabs a steel chair and charges at Liv, looking to make a good impression for Megan.
The bell rings and Nyla immediately swings the chair at Liv, but Liv’s quick reflexes allow her to duck out of the way.
Arn Anderson: Nyla’s not messing around with that chair! She’s looking to take Liv out of the Knockouts Division for good! She definitely wants to earn the favor of the boss here tonight.
Liv briefly manages to wrestle the chair away from Nyla, but Nyla quickly reclaims it and lands several vicious shots to Liv’s back. Liv, wincing in pain, creates some distance and connects with a running knee strike, momentarily halting Nyla’s momentum.
Kevin Kelly: That’s what Liv needs to do—keep moving, keep striking. She’s not going to win a slugfest with Nyla, but she can outmaneuver her.
Arn Anderson: You’re right, Kevin. Nyla’s got the power, but Liv’s got the speed and smarts. This is a classic battle of the beauty versus the beast!
With Nyla reeling, Liv drags her to the apron and hits a running knee lift from the floor, sending Nyla staggering. However, Nyla quickly regains her footing and responds by whipping Liv into the barricade with a powerful Irish whip.
Arn Anderson: That’s the power I’m talking about! One move, and Nyla turns the tide.
Nyla pulls a table from under the ring and hurls Liv onto it, before going to the apron. Nyla leaps from the apron, but at the last moment Liv rolls off the table, and Nyla eats a face full of wood as she crashes to the floor.
Liv rolls her into the ring and covers, but Rose kicks out at two. Nyla fights back, getting to her feet and catching Liv with a big back body drop before following it up with a running splash for a two count of her own.
Frustrated, Nyla goes for a Beast Bomb, but Liv counters with a hurricanrana, flipping Nyla across the ring. Liv then attempts a suplex, but Nyla reverses, delivering a suplex of her own, the ring shaking with the impact.
Kevin Kelly: Liv attempted a counter, but Nyla Rose is just too strong—she turned that suplex right around!
The two women spill to the outside once more. Nyla attempts to whip Liv toward the ring steps, but Liv, showcasing her agility, leaps off the steps and dives onto Nyla, sending her crashing to the floor.
Arn Anderson: You’ve got to hand it to Liv, she’s showing no fear!
Liv, showing surprising strength, hip tosses Nyla onto the floor and follows up with a running knee shot, leaving Nyla dazed. She rolls Nyla back into the ring and goes to the second rope, waiting for Nyla to get to her feet. As she does, she leaps at her with the bulldog attempt, but Nyla catches her into a sidewalk slam!
Nyla climbs to the ropes and stuns the crowd with a moonsault! She covers, but again, it’s only a two count. Growing increasingly frustrated, Nyla slides a table into the ring and props it up in the corner. She attempts a Death Valley Driver through the table, but Liv floats over and lands on her feet. Liv goes for a knee strike, but Nyla blocks and powerbombs Liv through the table for yet another close two count!
Arn Anderson: Liv Morgan refuses to stay down! She just got powerbombed through a table, and she still kicked out. This is turning into a war, Kevin!
Kevin Kelly: You’ve got to wonder if the Knockouts Hardcore Champion Nia Jax is somewhere watching this match, because this is some of the competition she could face!
Determined to finish Liv off, Nyla connects with the second Death Valley Driver attempt. She picks up a chair, laying it across the chest of Liv. Nyla then ascends to the top turnbuckle, but Liv, in a desperate move, hurls the chair at her, causing Nyla to lose her balance.
Liv quickly joins Nyla on the top rope, hitting an avalanche Falcon Arrow that shakes the ring. Liv covers, but Nyla kicks out at two.
Arn Anderson: What a fight here in Chicago!
With both women exhausted, Liv goes for another running knee shot, but Nyla counters, striking Liv’s knee with the chair! As Nyla moves in for the kill, Liv grabs the chair, delivering a homerun shot that echoes through the arena. Seizing the moment, Liv hits the Oblivion, driving Nyla’s face into the mat with devastating force. Liv makes the cover, and this time, it’s a three count!
Winner: Liv Morgan
Match Time: 17:03
Arn Anderson: What a match! An impressive debut for Liv Morgan!
Kevin Kelly: Megan Mouse has got to be furious right now!
Arn Anderson: Liv’s been stirring the pot since she got here, especially with Sami and Megan! That trade with Cash Mouse Entertainment might have brought her to AEW, but it’s also bringing some real drama.
Kevin Kelly: I agree. Liv’s been trying to show her gratitude to Sami for the trade, but it’s clear her flirting with him is causing tension between Sami and Megan. Tonight we’ve seen the first cracks in their united front, and Liv’s at the center of it.
Arn Anderson: None of that matters, now, Kevin. All that matters is that Liv Morgan is victorious here tonight against Nyla Rose! Nyla put on a good show, and she’s got all the potential in the world, but she just couldn’t put it together here tonight.
As Liv celebrates in the ring, Kelly says we’ve got to take our final commercial break of the evening. When we return, it’s Brock Lesnar and Matt Riddle – don’t go anywhere, our main event is next!
SEGMENT FOUR
Match #4 | Exhibition Match
Matt Riddle vs. Brock Lesnar
As the bell sounds Lesnar wastes no time, backing Riddle into the corner and unleashing a hellacious right hand that echoes through the arena. Riddle winces as Lesnar follows up with a thunderous chop, practically caving in Riddle’s chest. Riddle, showing his resilience, quickly locks in a headlock, but Lesnar powers out, sending Riddle behind him. Riddle transitions into a sleeper hold, trying to wear down the Beast, but Lesnar hits him with a back suplex to break the hold.
Arn Anderson: Riddle knows he’s got to use every trick in the book if he wants to survive this. Lesnar’s not the kind of guy you can overpower.
Lesnar applies a sleeper of his own, but Riddle skillfully turns it into an armbar, attempting to neutralize Lesnar’s power. Lesnar, showing his raw strength, stacks Riddle into a pin attempt, forcing Riddle to break the hold. Lesnar ducks a kick from Riddle and tries to suplex him, but Riddle flips out, landing on his feet and immediately locking in a triangle choke!
Kevin Kelly: I don’t care how big and strong you are, a chokehold is a great neutralizer!
Lesnar gets to his feet, Riddle with the triangle choke still locked on. With an impressive display of strength, he stumbles to the ropes and inadvertently forces a break. Rather than letting go, however, Riddle dumps Lesnar to the outside with a head scissor.
Riddle follows up with a running kick to Lesnar’s chest from the apron. He climbs the steps, lookinig for another high-flying move, but Lesnar counters, catching Riddle’s splash attempt and ramming him into the post spine first before following up with a variation on the World’s Strongest Slam to the mat outside.
Arn Anderson: Riddle tried to get fancy, and Lesnar caught him and squashed him like a bug!
Lesnar sends Riddle back into the ring. Riddle kips up, and tries to stun the Beast Incarnate with some right hands. Lesnar fires back with a few rights of his own, staggering Riddle. Riddle quickly responds with a Pele kick, kipping up again and following with a forearm in the corner. He hits the ropes and delivers another hard forearm, trying to keep Lesnar off balance.
Arn Anderson: Riddle’s got the right idea—he’s got to stay aggressive. Lesnar’s a monster, and you can’t give him an inch.
Riddle attempts to suplex Lesnar out of the corner, but Lesnar counters with a sharp elbow, sending Riddle stumbling back. The two trade hard elbows in the center of the ring, with Riddle mixing in chops and kicks. Riddle hits an Exploder suplex, and follows with a kick to the back, keeping Lesnar grounded. Riddle hits the ropes again, but Lesnar catches the kick. He hooks the leg for a capture-release suplex that sends Riddle flying across the ring.
Kevin Kelly: Riddle’s either brave, or the dumbest man alive for trying to go strike for strike with Brock Lesnar!
Arn Anderson: Lesnar just keeps coming back! Every shot he lands is like getting hit in the face by a truck!
Lesnar stalks him, like a hunter to its prey, and follows up with a German suplex. Riddle staggers to his feet and Lesnar nearly decapitates him with a running clothesline that turns him inside out! Lesnar covers, 1… 2…! Riddle kicks out!
Lesnar lifts Riddle for a short-arm clothesline, but Riddle ducks under and counters with a ripcord knee strike! Riddle holds on, delivering another knee to Lesnar’s face, and then hits a running knee to the back of Lesnar’s head. Riddle quickly covers. 1… 2… No! Lesnar emphatically kicks out!
Arn Anderson: You can bet Midget Hogan is watching this closely, hoping Lesnar takes Riddle down a notch. Riddle’s been pushing his buttons for weeks, and it’s only a matter of time before it boils over.
Riddle tries to build on his momentum, ascending the ropes. He goes for the Floating Bro, but Lesnar catches him! He jockeys him into position for the F-5! Riddle fires off some elbows to Lesnar’s head, getting out of the hold. Riddle hits a high knee, before Lesnar grabs him and sends him flying with a belly to belly! He hoists Riddle up for a thunderous powerbomb, driving him into the mat. Lesnar covers. 1… 2… No! Riddle kicks out again!
Kevin Kelly: How in the world did Riddle kick out of that?
Lesnar, determined to finish the job, pulls Riddle to his feet and prepares for another power move. But Riddle, digging deep, counters with a flurry of strikes, staggering Lesnar. He goes for another knee strike, but Lesnar catches him, hoists him up, and delivers a crushing F-5! Lesnar hooks the leg. 1… 2… 3!
Winner: Brock Lesnar
Match Time: 13:00
Arn Anderson: Riddle showed a lot of heart, but Lesnar’s on a mission. With a title shot against Sami Zayn coming up, he needed this win to send a message.
Kevin Kelly: Zayn’s been a mess tonight. He better snap out of it, because if he’s not focused, Lesnar’s going to tear him apart.
Arn Anderson: No doubt about that. Sami needs to quit worrying about curses and start worrying about the Beast in Waiting!
In a near-empty parking lot, the only sounds are a distant hum of arena machinery and the occasional gust of wind. Sami Zayn, on the edge and still visibly shaken, hastily walks towards his car, clutching his bag tightly to his chest. His eyes dart nervously around, as if expecting something—anything—to jump out at him.
Sami Zayn: [whispering to himself] Just get home, Sami. Just get home… none of this is real…
As Sami approaches his car, the parking lot lights begin to flicker, casting eerie, erratic shadows across the pavement. He freezes, his breath catching in his throat. The fog starts to creep in from the edges of the lot, swirling slowly around his ankles.
Sami Zayn: [nervously, fumbling with his keys] Oh no… not now… please!
As Sami fumbles with the keys, the parking lot lights go out completely, plunging the whole area into darkness. The car’s anti-theft lights are the only to provide any illumination, casting a small pool of light around him.
Sami’s hands tremble as he finally manages to unlock the door and yanks it open, but before he can get inside, the car’s radio crackles to life, blaring distorted voices and static.
Radio: [distorted, menacing] Sami… he’s coming… he’s coming for you!
Sami whips around, eyes wide with terror, but the fog is too thick to see anything. He jumps into the car, slamming the door and breathing a sigh of relief. The camera catches Sami’s face in his rearview mirror, but his eyes widen in shock as a pair of red eyes are glowing ominously in the reflection.
Man’s Voice: [low, almost a growl] Going somewhere?
Sami screams, throwing the car door open. With his bag in hand, he tries to flee but immediately trips on a parking curb. He crashes to the ground as the backseat door pops open.
The camera pans to reveal the man, stepping from the shadows. From his mouth, worms drip out, his face a twisted mask of horror.
Sami Zayn: [scrambling backwards on his hands and knees] Stay away from me! This isn’t real! You’re not real! Rob! Megan! ANYONE!
A low chuckle emanates from the man, the fog lifts a bit and reveals his identity. It’s the Boogeyman! Boogeyman chuckles again, each step towards Sami echoing in the silent lot.
The Boogeyman: Oh, I’ve very reall. And I’ve been waiting… just for you, Sami!
The fog rolls in thicker, almost suffocating. The Boogeyman looms closer, his shadow stretching unnaturally long across the ground. Sami tries to get to his feet, but his legs are too shaky. He can only watch in horror as The Boogeyman kneels beside him, his breath hot and foul on Sami’s face.
The Boogeyman: [whispering, voice dropping with malice] Danhausen sent me to remind you… that there are worse things than curses… like me.
Sami’s breathing is ragged, his eyes wide with terror. The Boogeyman slowly reaches out, placing his cold, clammy hand on Sami’s chest, pinning him to the ground. With his other hand, he produces a handful of live, writhing worms, holding them inches from Sami’s face.
Sami Zayn: [voice trembling, barely a whisper] Please… don’t…
The Boogeyman grins wider, his teeth gleaming in the dim light.
With one swift motion, The Boogeyman forces the worms into Sami’s mouth, muffling his screams. The camera zooms in on Sami’s face, his eyes wide in horror, the worms wriggling as he tries to spit them out. The Boogeyman’s sinister laughter echoes through the parking lot as the fog engulfs them both!
The scene fades to black with the sound of Sami’s desperate, choking gasps blending into the eerie, distorted laughter of The Boogeyman!
World Of Wrestling: Murrey Universe 