2023 WWE Payback Results – We are live from the PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, , where the cage is being lowered, and we are ready for the first match of the evening. But first, we get a video package of the events involving Trish Stratus and Becky Lynch.
Steel Cage Match
Becky Lynch vs. Trish Stratus
As they make their entrances, we see NXT Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton standing in the crowd with her belt.
As the bell rings to commence the match, a tense standoff unfolds.
Trish initially attempts to make a quick escape by heading towards the door, but Becky is quick to intercept her, preventing her exit. The action intensifies as Trish avoids Becky’s potentially devastating Manhandle Slam. Instead, Trish opts to make her way towards the ropes, attempting to climb out of the cage. Becky, however, halts her progress by grabbing hold of her.
In retaliation, Trish delivers a well-placed punch to Becky. Becky counters with a barrage of forearm strikes before sending Trish crashing into the turnbuckles. The Irish Lass Kicker follows it up with a series of punishing chops. Becky then skillfully blocks a kick from Trish and proceeds to execute not one, not two, but three exploder suplexes, showcasing her dominance.
Becky’s intentions become clear as she tries to propel Trish headfirst into the steel cage. Trish puts up a fight, preventing herself from making contact with the cold, unforgiving structure. Instead, Trish turns the tables, sending Becky into the mat and delivering a well-placed kick.
With both competitors showing their determination, Trish seizes the opportunity to start climbing the cage, looking to secure victory by escaping. Becky, however, is relentless and joins Trish on the top rope. In a high-stakes battle at the summit of the cage, Becky unleashes a flurry of punches, ultimately knocking Trish off the ropes.
The battle inside the Steel Cage Match rages on as Trish Stratus takes control, strategically using the cage to her advantage. She stretches Becky Lynch in the ropes, subjecting her opponent to excruciating pressure. Trish then delivers a powerful kick, sending Becky crashing into the steel cage. In a ruthless move, Trish pushes Becky’s face against the unforgiving steel, adding to her opponent’s torment.
Becky retaliates with a series of forearms, fighting back against Trish’s relentless offense. Trish responds with authority, executing a spinebuster that nearly secures her the victory. Becky, however, displays her resilience by stopping Trish from making her way to the exit. A quick rollup by Becky results in a near fall, and Trish reciprocates with a near fall of her own.
Trish continues her offensive onslaught by sending Becky into the steel cage once more. She ruthlessly fish hooks Becky and forces her opponent to endure yet another collision with the steel. Trish takes a moment to revel in her dominance before returning to target Becky. A well-placed kick and a face slam into the mat further cement Trish’s control over the match.
Trish doesn’t hesitate to utilize the cage to her advantage, choking Becky against the ropes. However, Becky summons her resilience, sending Trish into the cage multiple times and then delivering a series of brutal lawn dart throws. Becky manages to secure a near fall as she gains momentum.
Becky makes a move to apply her signature DisArmHer submission hold, but Trish strategically prevents it from being locked in properly. Trish inches closer to the door, seemingly with her escape in mind. Still, she makes sure to send Becky into the steel cage a few more times.
Trish attempts a Matrix-like move, but it backfires as Becky counters with a punishing leg drop when Trish holds on to the bridge for too long.
The Steel Cage Match between Becky Lynch and Trish Stratus reaches a pivotal moment as both competitors unleash a flurry of strikes. Becky starts with a forearm, but Trish responds with one of her own. They engage in a fierce back-and-forth exchange, with neither woman willing to yield. However, Becky gains the upper hand with a sharp European uppercut followed by a well-executed back heel kick.
Becky’s offensive onslaught continues as she sends Trish crashing into the steel cage. Both competitors exchange brutal cage-induced collisions. Becky seizes the opportunity to further punish her opponent, sending Trish into the steel multiple times.
Becky showcases her agility with a springboard side kick that drives the back of Trish’s head into the cage. The near fall attempt continues as Becky delivers a guillotine leg drop off the ropes.
Becky’s relentless assault continues with a running forearm and a series of kicks to Trish, who finds herself trapped in the corner. However, Trish demonstrates her resilience by pushing Becky into the cage. Trish goes for her signature handstand rana, but Becky manages to block it. Trish quickly pulls herself up, and the two exchange forearm strikes.
Trish begins to climb over Becky, making her way to the top of the cage. With the audience holding their breath, Trish delivers a well-placed kick that sends Becky crashing to the mat. But Becky’s determination knows no bounds, as she swiftly grabs Trish off the top of the cage, hoists her onto her shoulders, and executes a breathtaking power bomb.
The intensity inside the Steel Cage Match escalates as both Becky Lynch and Trish Stratus refuse to back down. Trish uses sharp elbows to thwart Becky’s attempts at executing her devastating Manhandle Slam. A well-placed kick by Trish is followed by her signature Widow’s Peak maneuver, leading to a near fall as the match’s suspense builds.
Trish continues to assert her dominance by slamming Becky’s head into the mat repeatedly, displaying her determination to secure victory. Trish then sets up for her iconic Stratusfaction maneuver, but Becky manages to elude her grasp and counters with a Twist of Fate. The dramatic exchange results in a near fall for Becky.
However, Becky appears to be dealing with an injury as her knee gives out during the intense battle. Seizing the moment, Trish seizes the opportunity to execute Stratusfaction on Becky, but it’s still not enough to secure the victory as Becky narrowly kicks out.
The Steel Cage Match reaches its climax as Trish Stratus and Becky Lynch engage in a high-stakes battle atop the cage. Trish initiates the exchange with a boot to Becky’s midsection, signaling her intent to climb to the top of the cage.
As Trish ascends to the cage’s summit, Becky intervenes, determined to prevent her opponent’s escape. The tension mounts as Trish reaches the pinnacle, and the two competitors engage in a brutal forearm exchange on the ropes. Becky attempts to execute her Manhandle Slam off the top rope, but Trish counters with a well-timed elbow and kick. Trish capitalizes on the opportunity, delivering a bulldog off the turnbuckles and earning a near fall.
With victory hanging in the balance, Trish once again begins her ascent to the top of the cage, inching closer to a potential escape. Becky, however, refuses to relent, slamming Trish’s face into the unforgiving steel atop the cage. The competitors engage in a fierce punch exchange as they teeter on the edge of the cage.
Becky momentarily loses her footing, crashing into the cage, and is sent sprawling to the mat. Trish takes advantage of this opening, making her way over and starting her descent. But Becky seizes the opportunity to pull Trish back onto the top of the cage. The precarious situation intensifies as Trish is caught in the cage’s structure, hanging from the top.
Becky grabs hold of Trish, pulling her into a vertical position while still atop the cage. The drama reaches its peak as Becky sets up for a superplex, executing the high-impact move and sending Trish crashing down into the ring. But it is only a two count.
Zoey Starks, who has been closely watching the match, intervenes by pulling Trish towards the exit door. Becky and Zoey engage in a tense tug-of-war with Trish caught in the middle. Ultimately, Becky successfully pulls Trish back into the ring, but Zoey retaliates by slamming the door into Becky’s face. Trish seizes this opportunity to roll up Becky for a near fall.
Becky remains undeterred, avoiding Trish’s Chick Kick and countering with her signature Manhandle Slam. However, Zoey once again intervenes, breaking up the pinfall attempt and ensuring the match’s thrilling conclusion. Zoey attempts to pull Trish towards the exit door, but Becky swiftly closes it, preventing Trish from escaping.
Becky Lynch and Zoey Starks engage in a fierce exchange of punches, with each competitor refusing to back down. Zoey gains the upper hand with a well-executed clothesline, briefly turning the tide in her favor.
Trish Stratus seizes the opportunity to climb the cage, inching closer to a potential escape. In a display of her incredible strength and agility, Becky Lynch delivers a devastating Manhandle Slam to Zoey, leaving her opponent stunned in the center of the ring.
Becky then turns her attention to Trish, preventing her from making her way over the top of the cage. In a brutal sequence, Becky slams Trish’s head into the steel cage and then executes a Super Manhandle Slam that shakes the ring to its core. The referee counts to three, signaling the end of this thrilling Steel Cage Match.
Winner: Becky Lynch
Becky Lynch celebrates and heads to the back. Zoey Stark helps Trish Stratus up. Trish gets up and pulls her arm away from Stark. She slaps Stark and tells her to get out.
Stark slams the cage door shut instead of leaving and turns back. She hoists Trish up and hits her with the Z-360. She takes her “Thank you, Trish!” shirt off and throws it on Trish’s fallen body.
In the Arena:
It is time for the host of tonight’s show, John Cena, to make his way to the ring.
John welcomes everyone to Payback. He says the opening match was awesome. He says he has done a lot in his twenty years, but he has never been a host. He says he wasn’t going to pass up being here tonight. His job as the host is to make tonight special. There is no better way than to be the “Special” Guest Referee for a match he had his eye on for a while. LA Knight and the Miz.
The Miz makes his way to the ring.
Miz expresses disappointment in Cena’s performance as the host, suggesting that Cena is pandering to the audience and reminding him of his status as the “Greatest of All Time.” Miz criticizes Cena’s hosting abilities, claiming that he falls short in comparison to his own experience.
Cena, looking for guidance, asks Miz for advice on how to improve his hosting skills. Miz humorously responds by advising Cena not to insert himself as a referee in his own match, poking fun at Cena’s past involvement in matches as a special guest referee.
Undeterred, Cena seeks more advice from Miz, genuinely wanting to make the hosting experience special. Miz recalls his own history as a WrestleMania host, emphasizing the importance of being actively involved in the event.
The exchange takes a humorous turn when Miz criticizes Cena’s attire, comparing it to a Teletubbie outfit for someone of his age. Cena counters by revealing a referee shirt, suggesting that he could be the special guest referee for Miz’s match. Miz vehemently rejects the idea, leading to a playful back-and-forth between them.
As the banter continues, LA Knight makes his entrance, setting the stage for the upcoming match.
LA Knight vs. The Miz
Special Referee: John Cena
The match starts with The Miz trying to get away from LA Knight by leaving the ring. Knight holds the ropes open for Miz, but Miz decides to walk towards the backstage area. Suddenly, Miz turns around and attempts to hit Knight, but he misses. Knight responds with a flurry of punches, taking Miz down.
Miz fights back with punches and an elbow, leading to a brief exchange of strikes. Knight then executes a suplex and positions Miz on the turnbuckles, looking to perform a superplex. However, Miz counters by dropping Knight face-first onto the mat. Miz follows up with a double sledge off the turnbuckles, a kick, and a chop.
Knight counters with a power slam and more punches, trying to gain control. He attempts a suplex, but Miz escapes and goes for his finishing move, the Skull Crushing Finale. Knight manages to avoid it and attempts his own move, the BFT (Blunt Force Trauma), but Miz narrowly escapes by rolling out of the ring. Knight then hits Miz with a baseball slide, sending him into the ring steps.
Knight sends Miz into the announce table multiple times, and then he re-enters the ring to prevent a count-out. However, when Knight goes back to the outside, Miz retaliates by slamming him into the ringside barrier several times. Miz re-enters the ring and then heads back outside to charge at Knight, but Knight counters with a back body drop that sends Miz crashing into the timekeeper’s area. Knight follows up with a springboard clothesline off the ringside barrier onto Miz.
Miz fights back with punches and kicks to Knight’s midsection, and he continues his attack by kicking and choking Knight in the corner. Cena intervenes, pulling Miz out of the corner and giving him a warning. Knight retaliates with a clothesline and more kicks in the corner, but Cena once again steps in, forcibly removing Knight from the corner as he approaches a five-count. Knight exchanges words with Cena, and while distracted, Miz takes advantage and strikes Knight from behind.
Miz chokes Knight in the ropes. He follows up with a boot to Knight, and then Miz places Knight in the ropes to execute a hanging Codebreaker. Miz then applies a reverse chin lock to further wear down Knight.
However, Knight retaliates with an Irish whip, and Miz sends him to the apron. Miz pulls Knight off the apron and sends him crashing to the floor before rolling him back into the ring. Miz resumes his attack with kicks to Knight’s chest and back. Knight struggles to get back on his feet, but Miz keeps the pressure on with more kicks.
Knight manages to avoid a roundhouse kick and counters with a belly-to-back suplex, transitioning into a uranage. Knight follows up with a series of punches and a clothesline. He Irish whips Miz and connects with a neckbreaker. Knight ascends the turnbuckles and delivers a bulldog, followed by a kick to Miz’s head for a near fall.
Knight maintains control by kicking Miz in the corner and executing a running hip attack. Knight attempts to lift Miz, but Miz fights back. Knight backs Miz into the corner to escape a potential Skull Crushing Finale. Miz counters with a sunset flip, but Knight rolls through. Miz responds with two DDTs, but Knight still manages to kick out for a near fall.
Miz attempts to hit his finishing move, the Skull Crushing Finale, but Knight counters with a victory roll for a near fall. Miz follows up by attempting a clothesline that would send Knight into the ropes, but Knight evades it and executes a hanging twisting DDT for another near fall.
Miz tries to capitalize with a jawbreaker, and then he goes for a rollup with his hand on the ropes for leverage. However, Cena spots the cheating and kicks Miz’s hand off the ropes. This leads to a dispute between Miz and Cena, allowing Knight to land a kick on Miz.
Miz narrowly avoids Knight’s BFT, as Knight hesitates before almost punching Cena but stops short. Miz seizes the opportunity to hit the Skull Crushing Finale once again, but Knight manages to kick out, showing great resilience.
Miz then sets up for his signature move, the Five Knuckle Shuffle, but before he can execute it, Knight counters with a powerful slam. Knight follows it up with his own version of the move called the YEAHple’s Elbow and immediately goes for the BFT. He successfully hits it and secures the three-count for the victory.
Winner: LA Knight
After the match, Knight has some words for Cena and Ccena offers his hand for a sign of respect. Knight shakes his hand and then Cena raises Knight’s hand.
WWE United States Title Match
Austin Theory vs. Rey Mysterio (c)
Rey Mysterio finds himself in a tough situation as Austin Theory takes control of the match. Theory starts with a series of shoulders and a punch in the corner. Rey fights back by delivering some kicks to Theory’s head. However, Theory quickly responds with a powerful kick of his own, followed by an Irish whip.
Rey attempts to float over Theory as he charges into the corner, but Theory catches him mid-move. Theory then takes advantage of the situation by holding onto the ropes during an O’Connor Roll attempt by Rey. Following this, Theory lands a clothesline on Rey.
Theory continues to assert dominance, tossing Rey to the apron and executing a slingshot boot, followed by a fisherman’s suplex, resulting in a near fall. Theory appears confident as he signals for a third fisherman’s suplex. However, Rey counters this time with an inside cradle for a close two-count.
Undeterred, Theory goes for a back elbow and manages to secure another near fall. He follows up with a reverse chin lock, trying to wear down Rey. Rey struggles to his feet and starts elbowing Theory to break free. In response, Theory delivers a double thrust to Rey’s throat, causing Rey to fall into the ropes. Theory proceeds to choke Rey, keeping the pressure on his opponent.
Austin Theory continues his aggressive assault on Rey Mysterio. He delivers a punch and then subjects Rey to a forceful Irish whip, sending him chest-first into the turnbuckles. Theory follows up with a series of punches to Rey, and then he positions Rey on the top turnbuckle. Theory goes for Rey’s mask, attempting to remove it, but Rey fights back with a series of elbows to stop Theory’s efforts.
Rey seizes the opportunity and hits Theory with an elbow, causing him to fall to the mat. Rey then executes a moonsault, but the impact leaves both competitors down on the canvas. Rey regains his composure and lands punches on Theory before performing a satellite head scissors that sends Theory to the outside. Rey attempts a sliding splash to the floor, but Theory manages to get to his feet. Rey improvises and turns it into a tornado DDT on the arena floor.
Rey returns to the ring and executes a springboard seated splash for a close near fall. He continues his attack with forearms and a springboard head scissors takedown. Rey attempts his signature 619 move, but Theory escapes just in time. However, when Rey tries to float over Theory, he is caught by Theory, who then hits his Three Seconds Around the World maneuver for another near fall.
Rey Mysterio battles back against Austin Theory’s offense. He manages to escape Theory’s grasp and connects with a well-executed enzuigiri. Theory finds himself on the apron, and he responds with a shoulder strike followed by a slingshot rolling dropkick. Rey bounces off the ropes and delivers a dropkick of his own to Theory.
Theory counters with punches, but Rey counters with kicks. Rey gains control and sends Theory into the ropes, setting up for his signature 619 maneuver. However, Theory manages to get his knees up just in time to block Rey’s springboard splash. With the momentum swinging back and forth, Theory goes for his finisher, A Town Down, but Rey counters with a victory roll, securing the three-count for the victory.
Winner: Rey Mysterio
Backstage:
Cathy Kelley is seen backstage with Becky Lynch, and she inquires about Becky’s plans for the future. Before Becky can respond, Tiffany Stratton approaches them, extending her congratulations to Becky. Tiffany acknowledges that they might have had a rocky start and offers an apology for mistakenly implying that Becky was a former NXT champion. Becky mentions that she will be keeping a close eye on Tiffany’s upcoming title match scheduled for Tuesday night. The tension between the two competitors remains palpable.
Steel City Street Fight for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles
Finn Balor and Damian Priest vs. Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn (c)
All four competitors are in a brawl, trading punches both inside and outside the ring. Owens and Priest exchange stiff forearms, while Sami and Finn trade punches of their own. Owens delivers a sharp uppercut to Priest, and Finn attempts to send Sami crashing into the ringside barrier, but Sami manages to reverse it, sending Finn into the barrier instead.
Sami introduces chairs into the ring, and Finn retaliates by striking Sami with a kendo stick. Finn then reveals more kendo sticks and a bucket filled with Terrible Towels, which he proceeds to stomp on. Kevin Owens delivers a clothesline to Finn, followed by hitting him with a kendo stick. Meanwhile, Priest lands a Northern Lariat on Owens, and the chaos continues.
Sami and Kevin disappear under the ring, only to emerge with trash cans. They use these trash cans to brutalize Priest, each taking turns striking him with the metal containers. The match has turned into an all-out war with weapons coming into play.
Kevin Owens reveals a Terry Funk shirt and places the trash can on top of Finn. Sami Zayn and Kevin take turns swinging kendo sticks at Finn, who’s trapped under the trash can. They then locate a table under the ring and set it up on the floor outside.
Kevin retrieves another trash can but is kicked by Damian Priest. Priest proceeds to hit both Kevin and Sami with the trash can. He punches Kevin, but Kevin retaliates with kicks and punches. Meanwhile, Finn Balor gets a chair and enters the ring. He strikes Kevin Owens in the ribs with the chair. Damian Priest holds Kevin while Finn hits him with the trash can. Both Priest and Finn continue to deliver punches and kicks to Sami Zayn in the corner. Finn eventually kicks Sami out of the ring and follows with an elbow to the bridge of Sami’s nose.
Priest throws more chairs into the ring, while Finn punches Sami on the announce table. However, when Priest attempts a chair shot and Kevin moves, Priest ends up hitting the turnbuckles.
Kevin punches and kicks Priest, then hits him with a chair. Finn also strikes Kevin with a chair several times. Sami attacks Finn, targeting his midsection and back with chair shots. Sami then sends Finn to the floor, and both Finn and Priest head into the crowd, with Kevin and Sami in pursuit. Kevin punches Priest while Finn uses storage cases to his advantage. Dominik Mysterio joins the fray and attacks Kevin and Sami, sending them over the dasher boards. Finn, Damian, and Dominik celebrate their performance, but Kevin and Sami return wearing Lemieux and Crosby sweaters and wielding hockey sticks. They hit Priest and Finn with the sticks, and Dominik briefly joins Kevin’s side before being attacked by him and Sami.
Kevin continues to hit Priest and Finn with the sticks while bleeding. Finn elbows Sami, but Priest manages to hold Sami in place. Finn runs into Sami’s boot, and Kevin sends Priest into the ring steps. Sami executes a Blue Thunder Bomb on the chairs but only gets a near fall.
Kevin and Sami set up chairs in the center of the ring, but Damian Priest interrupts by hitting them with the hockey stick. He follows up with a Broken Arrow to Sami on the chairs but only gets a near fall. Priest sends Sami to the floor, and Finn Balor kicks Kevin, who defiantly wants more punishment. Priest holds Kevin in place while Finn performs a baseball slide. Kevin retaliates with punches, but Priest strikes him with the trash can.
Priest clotheslines Kevin over the ringside barrier into the crowd. As they brawl up the aisle, Kevin fights back and punches Finn. Priest hits Kevin from behind, and Sami joins the fray, attacking Priest from behind as well. They continue fighting, eventually reaching the Kickoff Show set. Finn punches Kevin, and Sami sends Finn into a table. Sami then performs a swanton onto Finn and Priest. Dominik Mysterio intervenes by punching Sami and kicking him. Kevin also punches Dominik and sends him into a production case.
Kevin sets up a table and punches Dominik, causing him to fall onto the table. Kevin climbs to the seating area, getting on the railing for a swanton onto Dominik. Sami attempts an exploder into the turnbuckles on Finn but gets crotched when Priest intervenes. Sami responds with an exploder that sends Priest into the turnbuckles. He then knocks Finn off the apron, causing him to crash through a table. Sami prepares for the Helluva Kick, but Priest grabs him by the throat. Kevin delivers a stunner to Priest, while Sami lands a Helluva Kick to Priest.
JD Drake pulls Sami out of the ring, leading to Kevin clotheslining JD and punching him. Kevin powerbombs JD onto the announce table. Rhea Ripley enters the fray and runs Kevin through the ringside barrier.
Finn Balor and Sami Zayn are the remaining competitors in the ring, both struggling to get to their feet. Balor hits a sling blade on Sami and follows it up with a running dropkick that sends Sami into the turnbuckles. Balor goes up to the top rope but misses the Coup de Grace. Sami seizes the opportunity and hits Balor with an exploder into the turnbuckles, followed by a Helluva Kick. However, Dominik Mysterio intervenes by striking Sami with the briefcase. Balor seizes the moment and pins Sami, securing the victory for The Judgment Day.
Winners and NEW Tag Team Champions: The Judgment Day
– Times for a video package about Cody Rhodes, who just said on Twitter he will make an announcement next.
The Grayson Waller Effect:
Grayson says it is fitting that this is happening here because you have something in common with his guest. You can never finish a story. He brings out his guest, Cody Rhodes.
Cody asks Pittsburgh, but Waller cuts him off. He says no one cares what Pittsburgh wants to talk about. Waller says he is being honest. All people care about is what he wants to talk about. Waller says he wants to talk about Cody’s big announcement. He says he heard the whispers and rumbles. Cody has had so many ups and so many downs. Waller says he appreciates Cody begging to be on his show because Cody needs the Grayson Waller rub. He tells Cody this is the start of something huge . . . kid.
Cody says Waller is a newly minted graduate from hip toss class. You are probably familiar with shows like this and Cody runs through a litany of shows. You understand the precedent. Are you going to say something that gets under his skin? I take off my tie and hit you as we knock over these Hooter’s Trees. Then I give you a CrossRhodes.
Waller says he is not going to knock over the beautiful trees.
Cody says he asked to be on this show and for this massive platform. He thanks Waller for the rub and he wants to give Waller a big scoop. Cody asks if Waller watches Raw and NXT. He asks Waller if he watches Smackdown and Waller says he watches his stuff. Cody says Smackdown is intriguing. He says he saw a wrong that needed to be righted. Whatever political stroke he had, he cashed them in. He says he hopes he does not regret what he saw. He welcomes the newest member of Raw… Jey Uso.
Jey and Cody nod at each other and Jey goes into the ring and the crowd is happy with what they are seeing.
Waller sarcastically says welcome back Jey and mentions he has been gone for two weeks. He says he wishes he had some questions and he asks Jey what does it feel like to be on Raw. He points out that Jey has been a twin his entire life and surrounded by the Bloodline. As successful you have been in a tag team, as an individual, you have accomplished nothing. Do you think you are going to be a success.
Jey with a super kick to Waller to end the segment.
WWE Women’s World Title Match
Raquel Rodriguez vs. Rhea Ripley (c)
They begin their match with a series of lock-ups, both trying to assert dominance. Rhea Ripley manages to get Raquel Gonzalez into a corner, but the situation ends in a stalemate. They exchange shoulder tackles, but neither woman budges. There’s some verbal sparring before Rhea grabs Raquel’s hair. Raquel then lifts Rhea onto her shoulder, but Rhea escapes and returns to the ring.
Raquel uses her strength to gain control, but Rhea counters with a leg sweep and a dropkick. Rhea continues to target Raquel’s back, using chokes and kicks. She sends Raquel into the turnbuckles and works her over with more strikes.
Rhea poses for the crowd but goes right back to targeting Raquel’s back. She applies a seated abdominal stretch, trying to wear down her opponent. Rhea prevents Raquel from executing a hip toss, kneeing her in the midsection and maintaining control with a front face lock. Raquel eventually sends Rhea face-first to the mat and gets a moment to recover.
Rhea quickly regains the upper hand by sending Raquel into the ropes and targeting her leg by kicking the rope while Raquel leans on it. Rhea continues with kicks aimed at Raquel.
In the midst of their intense battle, Raquel Gonzalez begins to fight back. She delivers punches to Rhea Ripley’s midsection, attempting to regain control. However, Rhea responds with a dropkick, followed by a flurry of forearms and punches. Rhea adds a stinging chop and a forearm to the back of Raquel’s head.
Rhea even shows Raquel the blood from her own nose, taunting her opponent. Raquel retaliates by grabbing Rhea by the throat, but Rhea manages to escape. Raquel comes back with powerful clotheslines and a Northern Lariat, demonstrating her impressive strength. She follows up with a fallaway slam and a splash in the corner.
Raquel climbs the turnbuckles, looking for a high-risk move. However, Rhea trips her up, causing Raquel to hang from the ropes. Rhea capitalizes on this moment, delivering kicks to Raquel’s back and midsection. Rhea then ascends the turnbuckles, connecting with a series of headbutts while Raquel remains suspended in the corner.
Raquel kicks Rhea away, creating some separation. She retaliates with a forearm strike and executes a delayed vertical suplex. Raquel then goes to the turnbuckles, performing a double jump twisting elbow drop. She goes for the cover but only gets a near fall.
Raquel attempts her finishing move, the Tejana Bomb, but Rhea manages to escape. Rhea responds with a headbutt and a facebuster following a belly-to-back suplex. She continues the assault with a running knee but falls short of a three-count.
Rhea sets up for her RipTide finisher, but Raquel escapes. Raquel tries for a powerbomb, but Rhea counters, and they both end up down on the mat. The match reaches a crucial moment as both competitors are visibly fatigued and battered.
Raquel and Rhea trade powerful punches inside the ring. Raquel gains an advantage by delivering a forceful kick to Rhea’s face, sending her sprawling outside the ring. Seizing the moment, Raquel climbs onto the ring apron, poised to unleash a devastating move.
However, Rhea isn’t one to back down easily. She counters Raquel’s attack by using the ring’s steel barrier, turning the tables on her opponent. Raquel returns to the ring, ready to continue the fight. In an unexpected turn, Dominik Mysterio enters the scene, briefly disrupting the match.
Raquel seizes this momentary distraction to her advantage, bringing Dom into the ring, possibly intending to use him against Rhea. Yet, her plan backfires as Rhea quickly retaliates. She slams Raquel to the mat with her signature move, the RipTide, securing a hard-fought victory.
Winner: Rhea Ripley
Backstage:
John Cena, now taking on the role of a backstage correspondent, catches up with Finn Balor and Damian Priest for an interview.
John begins by addressing the recent tensions within The Judgment Day faction. Damian Priest steps in to clarify that despite occasional disagreements and disputes, they are, above all, a tight-knit family. When they unite and collaborate, nothing can stand in their way. Priest highlights their collective accomplishments, including holding the Money in the Bank briefcase and reigning as tag team champions, along with their teammates holding the women’s title and North American title.
Finn Balor chimes in, echoing Priest’s sentiments and emphasizing that it’s time to celebrate their success as a cohesive unit. The camaraderie and unity within The Judgment Day remain unshaken, and they are ready to continue their journey together.
WWE World Heavyweight Title Match
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Seth Rollins (c)
Before the match begins, there’s a notable appearance in the crowd as the legendary Keiji Mutoh is spotted among the spectators.
The match begins with both Seth Rollins and Shinsuke Nakamura trying to gain the upper hand in various grappling exchanges. They start with a series of holds, counters, and reversals, showcasing their technical skills. Seth Rollins goes for a headlock takedown, but Nakamura counters with a head scissors.
They attempt a Greco-Roman Knuckle Lock, and Rollins transitions it into a hammerlock and then a side headlock. Nakamura backs Rollins into the ropes and takes a moment to rub his back in a peculiar manner. Nakamura taunts Rollins to bring it on. Rollins responds with chops and kicks, gaining the upper hand. Nakamura goes for an Irish whip, but Rollins counters and floats over. Rollins follows up with a flying forearm, showing his agility and speed.
Seth starts with a suicide dive and follows it up with a kick, setting up for a Pedigree. However, Nakamura counters with a back body drop, showcasing his resilience. Nakamura retaliates with a series of impactful forearms and kicks, focusing on Seth’s lower back.
Nakamura takes control in the corner, delivering kicks to Seth. He attempts to target Seth’s knee while Seth is positioned on the top turnbuckle, but Seth manages to escape onto the apron. Seth then executes a knee drop and a successful suicide dive, gaining an upper hand.
In a fierce exchange outside the ring, Nakamura press slams Seth onto the announce table, causing Seth to bounce off it and crash to the floor. Nakamura tries to capitalize on the situation and almost secures a victory with a near fall.
Nakamura maintains his aggression by sending Seth into the ropes and delivering kicks to his back. He places Seth on the turnbuckles once again, hitting a running knee to the midsection, followed by another running knee for another close near fall.
Nakamura continues to focus his attack on Seth Rollins’ back, applying a camel clutch and delivering more punishing kicks. Seth retaliates with a slap to Nakamura, but Nakamura responds with a backbreaker, coming close to securing a victory.
Nakamura’s relentless assault on Seth’s back continues as he places him over the apron, hitting a running knee and a knee drop while Seth falls to the floor. Nakamura once again goes for a near fall.
Nakamura then locks in a single leg crab, putting immense pressure on Seth’s lower back. Nakamura runs Seth into the turnbuckles, trying to maintain control. However, Seth counters Nakamura’s offense, hitting a Frankensteiner and creating an opportunity for himself.
Seth and Nakamura engage in a forearm exchange, with Seth delivering a series of fierce forearms. He follows up with a sling blade and then ascends the turnbuckles, hitting a frog splash for yet another near fall.
Seth Rollins attempts a power bomb, but Shinsuke Nakamura manages to shift his weight and land on his feet. Rollins quickly responds with a short arm clothesline, aiming for the win, but Nakamura kicks out just in time.
Rollins taunts Nakamura, berating him about his back and slapping him in a show of dominance. However, as Seth goes for his finishing move, the Stomp, Nakamura counters with a sleeper hold. Rollins fights back with a series of elbows to thwart Nakamura’s reverse exploder attempt.
Nakamura is relentless, launching himself off the turnbuckles with a knee strike, nearly securing a three-count. He follows up with several knee strikes to Seth’s ribs and chest before executing a slam and a suplex, further wearing down his opponent.
Shinsuke Nakamura continues to apply pressure on Seth Rollins, putting him in the ropes and delivering a series of devastating kicks. He follows it up with a sliding German suplex, and it’s another close near fall. Nakamura is relentless, showcasing his strength and agility.
Nakamura goes for his signature Kinshasa knee strike, but Rollins counters with a superkick, almost securing the victory. Rollins and Nakamura engage in a fierce exchange of forearms, each showing their determination and resilience.
Rollins attempts his Phoenix Splash from the top rope, but Nakamura recovers quickly and crotches him. Nakamura joins Rollins on the turnbuckles, getting him on his shoulders for a Landslide, but Rollins manages to kick out just in time.
Nakamura doesn’t give up and sets up for another Kinshasa. As he goes for the finisher, Rollins collapses, showing the toll the match has taken. Nakamura tries to pick him up, but Rollins responds with a slap and a chop. Nakamura answers with kicks and knees to Rollins’ back.
They engage in a back-and-forth battle of reversals and counters. Seth attempts to suplex Nakamura into the ring, but Nakamura cleverly lands on his feet, avoiding the impact.
The two continue to exchange moves, showing incredible agility and wrestling prowess. However, it’s Seth Rollins who gains the upper hand with a well-timed knee strike followed by his signature move, the Pedigree. The impact leaves Nakamura stunned.
Seth seizes the opportunity and goes for his finishing move, the Stomp. He connects perfectly, and the referee counts the three, declaring Seth Rollins the winner of the hard-fought contest.
Winner: Seth Rollins
Rollins celebrates with his title in the ring after the hard-fought victory. We see Nakamura circling the ringside area on the floor. Michael Cole wraps up the show and that’s how this one ends.
–– Here is what’s in store for tonight’s WWE Payback ––
Spoiler News And Noted For Tonight’s WWE Payback
Special Guest Host: John Cena
WWE World Heavyweight Title Match
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Seth Rollins (c)
WWE Women’s World Title Match
Raquel Rodriguez vs. Rhea Ripley (c)
WWE United States Title Match
Austin Theory vs. Rey Mysterio (c)
Steel City Street Fight for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles
Finn Balor and Damian Priest vs. Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn (c)
Steel Cage Match
Becky Lynch vs. Trish Stratus
The Grayson Waller Effect
Grayson Waller interviews Cody Rhodes
LA Knight vs. The Miz
Stay tuned to WrestlingAttitude, WA.Com On Twitter and Google News for more.
2023 WWE Payback Results
