August 9, 2016
Episode 202
(taped August 9, 2016)
City: Bakersfield, CA
Venue: Rabobank Arena
Commentary: Tom Phillips, David Otunga
Ring Announcer: Greg Hamilton
Intro Video
“On My Own” by CFO$
Match 1
Sin Cara vs Jinder Mahal
(referee: John Cone)
Result: Sin Cara wins via pinfall after a senton bomb
Time: 5:09
Match Thoughts
Pretty good match. I expected more from Mahal after his recent signing, but I guess he’s here to enhance the mid-card. Or, at least, that’s what it seems like from this match. The match was fine, but mostly dominated by Sin Cara.
Video
A replay of Rusev and Lana’s wedding celebration from RAW.
Video
A replay of Foley talking to Daniel Bryan on RAW.
Match 2
Breezango vs The Hype Bros
(referee: John Cone)
Result: Zack Ryder pins Tyler Breeze after the Hype Ryder
Time: 6:14 (1 break)
Match Thoughts
Good match, though it made me a little mad. A little because Breezango worked way better as a team, but more because it made me realize that Breezango (and The Usos) were not included in the SmackDown Live segment where the tag teams confronted American Alpha.
Video
A replay of part of the Cesaro vs Rusev match from RAW.
Show Impressions
An entertaining yet strange show. It was 50/50 RAW and SmackDown. Why would they have RAW superstars compete on a show taped at SmackDown? That was so strange, and it flew in the face of the brand extension. Why separate the brands if people will have to travel to both shows?
Match of the Night
Breezango vs The Hype Bros
This was way more competitive and was easily the better match. Though both outcomes were unsurprising, this one had a bit more drama. Breezango had a better chance because they worked better together.