The Triple Threader - Dec. 4, 2023
Welcome to the Triple Threader, covering the three stories from the world of professional wrestling.
“Daddy’s back.” - Randy Orton (Courtesy: WWE)
Smackers on SmackDown
SmackDown was highlighted by the return of the Viper Randy Orton, who debuted in the WWE 21 years ago on that very show. Fast forward, the 14-time World Champion made his comeback this past Friday, where he had a choice to make: sign with the blue brand and get revenge on the Bloodline, or sign with Raw, where he had a run-in with the Judgment Day and gave Dominik Mysterio an RKO for his troubles. His decision was interrupted by the appearances of Paul Heyman, Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso. LA Knight came to the Legend Killer’s aid, and Orton would eventually sign with SmackDown, sending a declarative statement for the Wiseman to relay to Undisputed Champ Roman Reigns in the form of two words; “daddy’s back.”
“I’m not here to make friends, I’m here to make money.” - CM Punk (WWE)
Return of the Punk
In the wake of his stunning Survivor Series return, CM Punk made his first Raw appearance in almost 10 years. The promo was short but sweet, letting everyone know that not only is the Best in The World back in a WWE ring, but he makes it crystal clear; he’s home. Reported rumors have run rampant that his first feud comes with World Heavyweight Champion Seth “Freakin’” Rollins, who defends his crown this week against Jey Uso.
Bryan Danielson and Eddie Kingston battling it out. (Courtesy: All Elite Wrestling)
Classic Recap
The AEW Continental Classic picture is getting clearer. In the Gold League of the tournament, Jon Moxley and Swerve Strickland each have 6 points, while Jay White and Rush* both have scores of 3, and Ring of Honor alums Jay Lethal and Mark Briscoe are in danger of being eliminated. On the Blue League side, Brody King has score of 6, while Claudio Castagnoli, Bryan Danielson, and Andrade El Idolo, each have 3 points, leaving Daniel Garcia and Eddie Kingston – who decided to put both of his ROH World and NJPW Strong Openweight Championships on the line in this Classic - on the bubble. The final will be decided at AEW Worlds End on December 30, where the winner will receive both ROH and NJPW Strong crowns. This week’s Dynamite will see Jay White and Jay Lethal go one-on-one, while Jon Moxley and Rush square off, on the same show where Christian Cage puts his TNT Title on the line against Adam Copeland.
*Contrary to the usual pronunciation, his name is pronounced “roosh.”