Mauro Ranallo: Get ready folks… it’s Christmas Eve, which means it’s time for our final show of the year, Christmas Eve of Destruction! Tonight, we are live from the sold out United Center in Chicago, Illinois, and kicking things off we’ve got a Christmas House of Fun match.
Nigel McGuinness: The stakes are high, as it will be the last time we see either Christian Cage or Alexa Bliss in EBWF!
“My Last Breath” hit, and the crowd booed as Christian Cage and Nikki Cross came out and made their way to the ring.
Mauro Ranallo: Well, this match was the idea of Christian Cage. Christian said that this whole saga with him and Alexa Bliss had to end, and it will tonight as one of them will be gone from EBWF after this match.
Nigel McGuinness: We saw a different side of Christian Cage recently on Warfare, a less egotistical side and honestly after listening to what he said, while I don't think it justifies what he's done, I can sort of understand why he feels the way he does.
Christian and Nikki entered the ring and began to wait for their opponents as “My Last Breath” faded. “Unscripted Divide” hit, and the crowd cheered, looking around the arena. Soon, Jon Moxley and Alexa Bliss were seen at the top of a set of stairs in the crowd. The two walked down the stairs and through the crowd, who were showing their support. Moxley was dressed in camo shorts and trademark vest with “MOX” spray painted on the back. Alexa was dressed in a camo version of her normal gear to match Moxley along with her own vest with “BLISS” on the back.
Mauro Ranallo: These two are no strangers to this kind of match, in fact, Alexa was in the previous Christmas House of Fun match back in 2020.
Nigel McGuinness: They certainly have a lot of experience combined when it comes to violent match types and they're gonna have to use it to their advantage if they wanna keep Alexa's career in EBWF alive.
Mox and Bliss climbed over the barricade and stared at their adversaries. The two then looked at each other briefly before charging into the ring and the match started as the two teams traded punches. Christian and Moxley soon fought to the outside of the ring, while in the ring, Alexa slammed Nikki's head onto a turnbuckle and got on the middle rope then grabbed a Kendo Stick from one of the mesh fences. Alexa began to hit various areas of Nikki's body with the Kendo Stick, causing a sickening sound every time.
Mauro Ranallo: Alexa is wailing on Cross with that Kendo Stick.
Nigel Mcguinness: She's determined to keep her job and put an end to this saga.
Alexa dropped the stick and went to send Nikki face first into a fence, but Nikki blocked it by grabbing the fence and then slamming Alexa's head off of it. On the outside Moxley had Christian over the announce table and was hitting him with vicious forearm shots to the face. Moxley then noticed a pen on the table and grabbed it, jabbing it into Christian's forehead. Blood began to run down Christian's face and Moxley raked the pen across Cage's forehead before writing his name in Christian's blood on one of the format sheets.
Mauro Ranallo: That’s pretty… well, creative.
As Moxley was taunting Christian, in the ring Nikki hit a Bulldog on Alexa and went for the pin. Moxley immediately jumped into the ring to try and break it up but Alexa kicked out. Christian slipped into the ring and attacked the distracted Moxley from behind.
Mauro Ranallo: That momentary distraction gave Christian the upper hand.
Nigel McGuinness: Moxley panicked when he saw Alexa being pinned, which is understandable given the stipulations.
Christian grabbed a chair from a fence and hit Moxley in the back over and over. Meanwhile, Nikki grabbed a pane of glass from a fence and smashed it over Alexa's head. Alexa's forehead was bleeding profusely and Christian hit Moxley with an Inverted DDT for a two count. As the match progressed more weapons were used and the violence escalated from crowd brawling to trash cans to barbed wire bats. Eventually Christian went for an Unprettier but Moxley reversed into a Paradigm Shift and went for the pin.
1…
2…
Nikki hit the referee with a Trash Can Lid to stop the count! Moxley got off Christian and walked over to Nikki, then the two trash started talking each other. As this was happening, Alexa grabbed a velvet bag and poured out the contents, which turned out to be thumbtacks.
Mauro Ranallo: This doesn't look good for Nikki and she doesn't even realize it.
Moxley pointed for Nikki to turn around and when she did, Alexa gave her a Spinebuster onto the tacks! The crowd cheered as Nikki squirmed in agony as the tacks were shown stuck in her back. The cheering didn't last long as Seth Rollins entered the ring behind Moxley and delivered a Superkick when Mox turned around.
Mauro Ranallo: Damn it, we should've known there would be interference from Team Cage!
Soon Big Show came out from the back and pulled Alexa out of the ring, putting her over his shoulder as he began walking to the back. Alexa squirmed to get free but Big Show held on. As Big Show looked back at the ring he was suddenly struck in the back of the head with a beer bottle, dropping Alexa as he fell to the ground. The camera pulled back to reveal James Storm standing over the giant.
Nigel McGuinness: The Breakout Champion has stopped Big Show's attempted kidnapping of Alexa Bliss.
Alexa looked at Storm with a grateful look and he nodded at her before heading to the back. In the ring Rollins, who saw what had happened to Show, quickly went to Curb Stomp Moxley but Mox dodged it and hit Seth with a Paradigm Shift. Christian got to his feet and grabbed Moxley from behind, hitting him with an Unprettier and quickly went for the pin.
1…
2…
KICKOUT!
Mauro Ranallo: Moxley kicks out! Moxley kicks out!
Christian looked lost as if he didn't know what to do next. He then rolled out of the ring and searched under it like a man possessed. Cage pulled out Switchblade from under the ring and started carving up the ring canvas.
Mauro Ranallo: What is Christian doing?
Christian entered the ring and pulled back the canvas, revealing the wooden boards underneath.
Nigel McGuinness: Christian is looking to finish this right now.
Christian waited for Moxley to get up, signaling for another Unprettier. Moxley got to his knees and flipped Christian the double bird… then Cage was hit with a low blow from behind by Alexa Bliss, who had a chain wrapped around her fist. Christian stumbled forward as he held his groin and Moxley got up and nailed the King Kong Lariat.
Nigel McGuinness: Christian is down!
Mauro Ranallo, How much more does he have left?
Alexa looked down at Christian who was struggling as he tried to get up. Eventually Christian got to his knees and looked up at Alexa; there was dried blood on both of their faces. Christian seemingly had a look of both defeat and acceptance on his face, and Alexa had tears in her eyes as she started yelling at him which was picked up.
Alexa Bliss: I TRUSTED YOU, I TRUSTED YOU MORE THAN MOST!
Alexa shook her head before she spoke again, this without yelling.
Alexa Bliss: You were my friend, my mentor. I-I looked up to you like a big brother. Why did things have to end up like this?
Christian simply replied “End it” and the emotional Alexa nodded. Moxley grabbed Christian and hit an elevated Paradigm Shift on the exposed boards, then hooked the leg.
1…
2…
3!
“Unscripted Divide” played and Moxley looked down at Christian's unconscious form.
Mauro Ranallo: It's over Nigel.
Nigel McGuinness: Christian's EBWF career… is no more.
Mauro Ranallo: And even though they won the match, neither Moxley or Bliss look happy. Neither of them are celebrating.
Moxley got up and walked over to Alexa who was still emotional and calmly pulled her into a hug, more as an act of comfort than celebration. The two left the ring and made their way to the back as the show faded to an ad for EBWF Shop.
A classic western “dunu nunu nuuuuu” echoes across the arena as the lights cut out. A pyro erupts from the right side of the tron as a faux bullet hole appears on the screen. Digital bits of glass fall from the damage. Another pyro erupts from the opposite side of the stage and is likewise followed up by another bullet hole appearing on screen. The screen cracks into a myriad of pieces that begin to crumble. Over the middle of the screen sparks start to rain down as the pieces fall, leaving the screen black. “Guilty” by Cory Marks begins to play.
Mauro Ranallo: Do you have any idea who this could be?
Nigel McGuinness: I have no clue, Mauro.
Austin Gunn steps out onto the entrance ramp clad in all white gear with gold accents. His gear includes a large white cowboy hat, a white leather vest and white leather chaps. A gold badge hangs from the left side of the open vest. A handheld camera rushes up the ramp to get a better look at the arriving Gunn. He stops at the top of the ramp and throws up finger guns on either hand. He mocks shooting them in alternating pulls as more pyros go off beside the stage in time with each movement.
Mauro Ranallo: That’s Austin Gunn! Mamma mia, Austin Gunn is back in EBWF!
Nigel McGuiness: I can’t help but think they’ve wasted a lot of pyros for one worthless son of a Gunn.
Mauro Ranallo: You feel good about that joke?
Austin meets the camera rushing up the entrance ramp head on. He holds the badge on his vest up into the shot and yells into the camera just to be heard over the EBWF Universe.
Austin Gunn: There’s a new sheriff in town! The Lone Gunn has come to clean up the locker room!
He aims his finger gun down the lens of the camera and shouts “bang” as he jerks his arm up into the air. A final burst of pyro erupts from the stage and Austin’s name appears across the tron. Austin turns his back to the camera and walks backstage.
Mauro Ranallo: Up next, the Gateway Championship is on the line as Damian Priest defends the gold against Hook in a TLC4 match!
The atmosphere inside the United Center was electric as the camera panned around the ring, which was surrounded by tables, ladders, and ominously placed panels of C4. The EBWF Gateway Championship glistened above the ring. “The Chairman’s Intent” by Action Bronson hit, and the crowd cheered as Hook made his way to the ring. When Hook was in the ring, “To The Wolves” by Stitched Up Heart hit and out came Damian Priest. As he entered the ring, Priest looked up at the Gateway Championship, then glanced across the ring at Hook. Across from the defending champion, Hook leaned casually against the ropes, his stoic demeanor masking the fire within.
Mauro Ranallo: This is going to be an absolute war! Hook came so close at Fanniversary, and after defeating Damian Priest in a non-title match, tonight he has another opportunity to win his first EBWF championship!
Nigel McGuinness: But can he survive the chaos of TLC4, Mauro? Tables, ladders, and C4… this isn't just a match; it's pure carnage waiting to happen!
The bell rang, and the match began with a flurry of forearms from Hook, catching Priest off guard. Hook’s stiff strikes backed the champion into the corner, but Priest retaliated with a massive spinning heel kick, dropping Hook to the mat. Priest wasted no time grabbing the first weapon – a steel chair – and drove it into Hook’s ribs.
Mauro Ranallo: Mamma Mia! Priest showing no mercy early on!
Nigel McGuinness: If Hook’s going to walk out of here as champion, he’ll need to weather the storm – and maybe create a few explosions along the way!
The fight spilled to the outside as Hook countered a chair shot, grabbing the weapon and smashing it across Priest's back. He quickly set up a table near the barricade, but Priest recovered, landing a devastating chokeslam on the apron. The audience winced as the impact echoed throughout the arena. Priest slid a ladder into the ring and began climbing towards the title, but Hook recovered, using the ropes to springboard and knock Priest off the ladder with a flying forearm. The ladder toppled, narrowly missing both men.
Mauro Ranallo: Hook just saved this match for himself with that incredible athleticism!
Nigel McGuinness: You can see how much the Gateway Championship means to him, Mauro – he’s willing to risk life and limb to claim it!
The chaos escalated when Hook, with a burst of energy, suplexed Priest through the table he had set up earlier. The crowd erupted as wood splinters flew everywhere. Hook grabbed another ladder and set it up in the center of the ring, climbing halfway before Priest crawled back in, yanking Hook down and slamming him onto one of the C4 panels! A deafening explosion rocked the ring, and smoke and sparks flew as Hook writhed in pain, clutching his back.
Mauro Ranallo: Sweet mother of mayhem! Hook just got introduced to the C4, and it was absolutely devastating!
Nigel McGuinness: That’s what makes this match so dangerous, Mauro! One wrong move, and you're a human firework!
Priest, looking worse for wear himself, set up a second table and laid Hook across it. He climbed a ladder, poised for a splash, but Hook rolled off the table just in time, causing Priest to crash through it instead! Both men were down, and the crowd were on their feet, chanting, “This is awesome!” Hook crawled towards the ladder, dragging himself up rung by rung. He touched the Gateway Championship with his fingertips when Priest, somehow still standing, tipped the ladder over! As Hook crashed hard to the mat, Priest seized the moment, setting up the ladder again and climbing with everything he had left. Hook tried to stop him, pulling himself to his feet, but a desperate kick from Priest sent him tumbling backward onto another C4 panel. Another explosion rocked the ring, leaving Hook motionless.
Mauro Ranallo: Good God, Hook might be out cold after that!
Nigel McGuinness: Priest has a clear path now – he just has to climb and retrieve the title!
With the crowd roaring, Priest climbed the ladder one final time, unhooking the EBWF Gateway Championship and collapsing atop the ladder in victory.
Christy Hemme: Your winner, and still EBWF Gateway Champion… Damian Priest!
The match was over, but the carnage left both men barely able to move. After a few moments, Priest staggered to his feet, the Gateway Championship clutched to his chest. Hook, bruised and battered, pulled himself up using the ropes. The two men locked eyes, and the tension in the air was palpable until Priest extended his hand. After a moment’s hesitation, Hook shook it, drawing a thunderous ovation from the crowd.
Mauro Ranallo: What a match! What a display of heart and determination from both men!
Nigel McGuinness: Hook may not have won the title tonight, but he earned Damian Priest’s respect – and that’s worth its weight in gold.
As Priest left the ring, raising the title high, Hook stood tall despite the loss. The crowd chanted his name as a video package began to play promoting EBWF’s next pay-per-view, Last Survivor.
The camera panned across the sold-out United Center at EBWF’s Christmas Eve of Destruction. The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with anticipation for one of the most talked-about matches of the night: Goldberg vs. Rex Steiner. Signs filled the crowd, many reading “We Want Steiners!” and “Screw You Rex!” while others chanted, “Goldberg! Goldberg!” The camera cut to a group of wrestling legends sitting at ringside, each a notable part of the Steiner family’s history and Goldberg’s past.
Mauro Ranallo: Look at this, Nigel. A group of icons is here tonight to witness what could be one of the most brutal matches in EBWF history.
The camera zoomed in on Diamond Dallas Page, Tony Schiavone, Konnan, and Disco Inferno seated together. The crowd cheered as DDP threw up the signature Diamond Cutter sign.
Nigel McGuinness: That’s DDP, a man who’s been in the trenches with Goldberg and the Steiner Brothers. Tony Schiavone, the voice of WCW back in the day, alongside Konnan and Disco Inferno – other notable names in these men’s past – all here to show their support for Goldberg. All here to see if “Da Man” still has it. They’re hoping Goldberg teaches Rex Steiner a lesson for what he did to his own family!
Mauro Ranallo: Absolutely, Nigel. Look at the signs tonight! Even the fans here are showing respect for the Steiners, who many probably never saw in their prime. “We want Steiners”. The fans and these legends want justice tonight. But I’ve got to say, Rex Steiner has Goldberg by age since turning his back on his bloodline, and Goldberg is stepping into the ring against a man with no fear. Let’s look at the tale of the tape!
Christy Hemme: The following contest is scheduled for one fall and it will be a No-Holds-Barred match! The contract dictates that if Goldberg loses, he must retire!
The crowd erupted with mixed cheers and boos as the stakes were laid bare. The familiar war drums of Goldberg’s theme, “Invasion,” began to pound. “Goldberg” chants echoed through the arena, and pyrotechnics exploded as “Da Man” Goldberg stepped through the smoke, breathing it out through his nostrils, slapping his head, and roaring. Dressed in his classic black trunks, gloves, and boots, Goldberg marched to the ring, his intensity showing his laser focus on the match.
Mauro Ranallo: Goldberg knows what’s at stake. He’s fighting for his career, but he’s also fighting for the Steiner Brothers. For legends’ right to respect across this great sport! But as a reminder, fans, of what this fight is about, Rick and Scott Steiner were laid out by Rex Steiner weeks ago in an ultimate show of betrayal and disrespect.
Nigel McGuinness: Goldberg’s intensity might prove to be unmatched, but tonight he faces a dangerous young man who I think has surpassed Goldberg!
The lights dimmed as “Unstoppable Warhound” hit. Boos rained down as Rex Steiner stormed onto the stage. Wearing a black hoodie over his wrestling singlet that read “LEGEND KILLER” in brash, bold letters, he sneered at the crowd and mockingly barked before marching to the ring. Rex paused at ringside, smirking at the signs supporting the Steiners and shaking his head dismissively before glaring at the legends on hand. “Punk bitches,” Rex said audibly, laughing and getting a rise out of a few of the men in the crowd.
Mauro Ranallo: That young man is as cold-hearted as they come. Rex Steiner has proven that he doesn’t care about anything more than himself.
Nigel McGuinness: You can say what you want about his attitude, Mauro, but I have seen footage of Rex Steiner training for tonight’s match. Rex Steiner is the real deal! The Warhound is here to hunt!
Rex rolled into the ring, locking eyes with Goldberg as he slowly removed his hoodie. Referee Charles Robinson called for the bell, and the crowd’s anticipation reached fever pitch. As the bell rang, Goldberg exploded out of his corner, looking to end the match early with a spear! But Rex sidestepped at the last second, and Goldberg crashed shoulder-first into the turnbuckle!
Nigel McGuinness: The veteran making a mistake, and Rex Steiner was ready!
Goldberg stumbled backward, clutching his shoulder. Rex wasted no time, grabbing Goldberg and in a fluid motion delivering a brutal German suplex that sent Goldberg crashing to the mat shoulders and neck first! The crowd gasped at the display of Rex’s raw power.
Mauro Ranallo: Did you see that? Rex Steiner just threw Goldberg like a ragdoll!
Rex stood over Goldberg, who was still grabbing at his neck, shouting down at the former WCW World Heavyweight Champion. “You’re done, old man! Done!” Goldberg tried to fight to his feet, but Rex, in a flash, delivered a standing Frankensteiner that electrified the crowd.
Nigel McGuinness: What a Frankensteiner! I am not sure if Scott himself could do one that is prettier! Mauro, we must admit, this has been absolute dominance! Rex Steiner is manhandling Goldberg!
DDP and company tried to rally the crowd, chanting for Goldberg, but the chants weakened as Rex stood over Goldberg, a twisted grin on his face, laughing mockingly at the fallen legend. “They keep doing that Goldberg crap!” Rex yelled. He then backed up to the corner, gradually taking down the straps of his singlet, crouching and waiting as Goldberg slowly pushed himself to his hands and knees. The crowd booed loudly as Rex let out a menacing bark before charging forward and delivering a rib-breaking spear to Goldberg!
Mauro Ranallo: Mamma Mia! That spear just cut Goldberg in half!
Goldberg’s body folded upon impact, and he collapsed flat on the mat. Blood dribbled from his mouth as he rolled slightly to his side, clearly struggling to breathe. Rex knelt over him and mockingly slapped him in the face before smirking as he stood. Rex then cockily placed his boot on Goldberg’s chest. The referee counted – 1… 2… 3!
Christy Hemme: Here is your winner, “The Warhound”, Rex Steiner!
The crowd erupted in boos as Rex Steiner stood tall, fists clenched in triumph. Goldberg remained motionless, blood trickling from his mouth as medical officials rushed to the ring to check on him.
Mauro Ranallo: Oh no, it looks like Goldberg was seriously hurt! That spear was a damn execution!
Nigel McGuinness: This is a defining moment for Rex Steiner! He said he was here to bury Goldberg, and he did just that.
Rex Steiner sneered as he climbed the turnbuckle, raising his arms as the crowd showered him with boos. At ringside, DDP and the other legends looked on in disbelief as EMTs helped Goldberg onto a stretcher, blood still visible on his lips and chin.
Mauro Ranallo: This crowd is stunned! Goldberg’s legendary career is over on this disastrous note! And, above all, it was Rex Steiner who ended it with that vicious spear!
Nigel McGuinness: Love him or hate him, Mauro, Rex Steiner just put the world on notice. The Warhound is here to take over!
The camera lingered on Rex Steiner standing on the stage, glaring down at the carnage he caused. He smirked one final time as Goldberg was wheeled up the ramp.
After a video package recapping the history between Adam Cole and Chris Jericho, “Unleashed” by Killswitch Engage hit and the crowd booed as “The Unleashed”, Adam Cole and Roderick Strong, made their way to the ring.
Mauro Ranallo: It is time for Anarchy in the Arena! Over the course of 2024, Adam Cole has tried to drive Chris Jericho out of EBWF, with the help of his longtime friend Roderick Strong… but tonight, Jericho is seeking revenge, and he’s called in his oldest friend in the business, Lance Storm, for backup.
Nigel McGuinness: I’m excited to see the reunion of one of the greatest tag teams in EBWF history, The Thrillseekers! But Mauro, I have to wonder - for all the experience that Chris Jericho and Lance Storm have, will they be able to handle Adam Cole and Roderick Strong, two men who are in the prime of their careers? Especially considering Lance Storm is wrestling for the first time in almost nine years!
Mauro Ranallo: That’s a good point, Nigel - but don’t forget, this is Anarchy in the Arena! This will be more of a fight than a wrestling match, and I have no doubt in my mind that the Thrillseekers will give The Unleashed the fight of their lives.
When Cole and Strong were in the ring, the arena lights went out and a five second countdown appeared on the tron. As the countdown clock struck zero, “Break the Walls Down” hit, and the crowd cheered nostalgically as Chris Jericho appeared at the top of the ramp, standing with his back to the crowd and wearing a light up jacket!
Mauro Ranallo: Jericho is rolling back the years here!
Nigel McGuinness: I love a bit of nostalgia at Christmas time, Mauro, but I’m beginning to wonder if Chris Jericho is taking this match seriously…
As Jericho turned around, he removed his jacket, handing it to a member of the production team before stepping towards the ramp. “99 Problems” then hit and the crowd cheered as Lance Storm joined Jericho on the stage. As Storm approached Jericho, both men smiled, then hugged. However, as the Thrillseekers turned their attention to the ring, their smiles quickly faded, and as they made their way down the ramp, both men’s facial expressions conveyed a mixture of anger and determination. As soon as Jericho and Storm entered the ring, they charged towards Cole and Strong, and the referee abruptly called for the bell as all four men exchanged furious punches.
Mauro Ranallo: Mamma Mia! We knew this was going to be violent, but we’re barely thirty seconds in, and fists are flying like it’s the Wild West!
Nigel McGuinness: Well Mauro, suddenly I’m less concerned about whether or not Jericho is taking this match seriously. This isn’t going to be a match – it’s going to be a war!
The brawl spilled out of the ring in no time, with Jericho and Cole battling up the ramp while Strong and Storm traded blows at ringside. As Jericho and Cole reached the top of the ramp, Jericho grabbed a camera from one of the cameramen and threw it at Cole, who ducked at the last second. The camera smashed as it hit the floor, and Cole countered with a superkick that sent Jericho sprawling. Meanwhile, Storm and Strong found themselves near the timekeeper’s area, where Storm clattered Strong with the ring bell, busting him open.
As blood poured down Strong’s face, Storm grabbed him and tried to drag him back towards the ring, but Strong retaliated with a low blow, dropping Storm to his knees. Strong then grabbed the ring bell and smashed it into Storm’s skull, opening up a nasty gash on Storm’s forehead. The referee tried to check on Storm, but Strong threw the referee aside and began punching Storm in the head with closed fists, drawing more blood.
Mauro Ranallo: Roderick Strong and Lance Storm are bleeding already!
Nigel McGuinness: And we’re just getting started, Mauro! This is going to get a lot worse before it gets better!
The camera cut back to Cole and Jericho, who were now fighting by the side of the stage. Jericho had gained the upper hand and was using wires from a set of speakers to choke Cole. As Cole tried to break free, Jericho taunted him, shouting, “You want to be the best? Prove it!” Cole elbowed Jericho in the gut to escape and then hurled him into a pile of equipment cases, leaving Jericho clutching his back in agony. Cole grabbed one of the cases and slammed it onto Jericho’s midsection.
Mauro Ranallo: This is utter carnage! Equipment is being destroyed, bodies are being broken, and we’re only minutes into this match!
Nigel McGuinness: That’s the beauty of an Anarchy in the Arena match, Mauro—there are no rules, no limits, and no way to predict what’s going to happen next!
The action escalated as Strong and Storm fought into the crowd, while Cole dragged Jericho back down the ramp towards ringside. As Strong tried to suplex Storm onto the floor, Storm countered with a suplex of his own, slamming Strong onto a set of stairs! As Strong cried out in pain, Storm grabbed a nearby chair and smashed it over Strong’s back repeatedly.
At ringside, Cole whipped Jericho into the ring post, splitting open Jericho’s forehead. Blood trickled down Jericho’s face, and as he fell to the ground, Cole smirked and began taunting the crowd. The crowd booed, but while Cole was distracted, Jericho reached underneath the ring and pulled out his trusty baseball bat, Floyd! The crowd’s boos turned to cheers as Cole turned around and Jericho swung Floyd into Cole’s ribs. As Cole stumbled backwards, Jericho swung the bat full force at Cole’s head, busting him open as well.
Mauro Ranallo: All four men are bleeding now! This is an absolute bloodbath!
As Storm dragged Strong back to ringside, Jericho tossed Cole into the ring. The Thrillseekers seemed to be in control, but their momentum was interrupted when Marina Shafir appeared out of nowhere. She slid into the ring and blindsided Jericho with a spinning backfist. Storm tried to intervene, but Strong recovered and smashed a chair over his back.
Mauro Ranallo: Marina Shafir has no business being out here! This is supposed to be two-on-two!
Nigel McGuinness: You didn’t think The Unleashed were going to play fair, did you?
As Jericho got back to his feet, Shafir went to hit him with a thrust kick… but Jericho blocked it, countering with a double leg takedown. Jericho then signaled for the Walls of Jericho, and the crowd cheered in anticipation… but before Jericho could lock it in, Roderick Strong intervened, grabbing Jericho and hitting him with the End of Heartache. Strong then helped Shafir to her feet, before tying up Jericho in the ring ropes! At this point, Adam Cole grabbed Floyd from ringside, and went to hit Jericho with it… but Storm ran in, taking the metaphorical bullet for Jericho.
Mauro Ranallo: Lance Storm just sacrificed himself to protect Chris Jericho! What bravery!
Nigel McGuinness: You call it bravery, Mauro… I call it foolishness!
Strong and Cole then pummeled Storm whilst Shafir choked Jericho with Floyd, making sure he couldn’t escape from the ring ropes. As Jericho was forced to watch on, Strong and Cole sat Storm in the center of the ring, ran against the ropes, and hit him with concurrent knee strikes to the front and back of the head.
Mauro Ranallo: Mamma Mia! A double boom!
As Storm slumped to the mat, Cole made the cover, and the referee counted – 1… 2… 3!
Mauro Ranallo: Adam Cole just pinned Lance Storm, and The Unleashed have stolen this match with help from Marina Shafir!
Nigel McGuinness: Say what you want about their tactics, Mauro – The Unleashed walk away as the victors tonight!
With the match won, Shafir removed the bat from Jericho’s throats and loosened the ropes, freeing Jericho. Jericho stumbled forwards, breathless, landing on his knees in front of Cole and Strong. Shafir entered the ring behind Jericho, ensuring Jericho was surrounded. Cole, Strong, and Shafir began to deliver a brutal three-on-one beatdown, drawing boos from the crowd… but the crowd’s boos quickly turned to cheers, as Rated RKO and Trish Stratus sprinted down the ramp to make the save.
Mauro Ranallo: My God! It’s Edge! It’s Randy Orton! It’s Trish Stratus! We haven’t seen them in EBWF for months!
Nigel McGuinness: Business has just picked up, Mauro! The cavalry has arrived!
After Orton hit Strong with an RKO, Edge took Cole out with a Spear, and finally Trish delivered a Chick Kick to Marina Shafir that sent her tumbling out of the ring. The Unleashed regrouped on the ramp, glaring at Rated RKO and Trish, who stood tall in the ring.
Mauro Ranallo: What a shocking turn of events! The Unleashed may have won the match, but Rated RKO and Trish Stratus just made sure they didn’t leave unscathed!
Nigel McGuinness: The question now is – what happens next? This war The Unleashed have started is far from over, especially with Rated RKO back in the picture!
The crowd was on the edge of their seats as the EBWF Women’s Championship was on the line in a brutal Last Woman Standing match between the defending champion Tam Nakano and Britt Baker. Both women had proven themselves to be fierce competitors, but this was the ultimate test of resilience and willpower.
Mauro Ranallo: Welcome to what promises to be a thrilling contest! This is a Last Woman Standing match for the EBWF Women’s Championship, and what a showdown we’ve got on our hands tonight! Tam Nakano has held that championship for months, but standing across from her is one of the most dangerous women in all of wrestling—Britt Baker!
Nigel McGuinness: It’s going to take everything and more for Tam to keep that title tonight, Mauro. Britt Baker is a woman with no fear, no limits, and she will do whatever it takes to claim that gold. This match is all about survival, and I’ve got no doubt that both of these women will be willing to sacrifice everything to win.
The bell rang, and immediately, both women came out swinging. Tam Nakano, with her quick, agile strikes, looked to use her speed to her advantage. She darted around the ring, attempting to catch Britt off guard with a series of kicks and swift knee strikes. Britt, however, absorbed the punishment with a grin, showing no fear as she took the blows and countered with calculated, hard-hitting attacks.
Britt gained the early advantage, knocking Tam to the mat with a stiff forearm to the face. The force of the blow sent Tam sprawling, but she was quick to get back to her feet. Britt, sensing an opportunity, dragged a steel chair from under the ring, setting it up near the ropes. She charged at Tam, attempting a superplex, but Tam countered, lifting Britt off the ropes and crashing her down onto the chair with a modified suplex. Britt set up a steel chair in the corner of the ring, seemingly planning something dangerous.
Mauro Ranallo: Wait a minute! Baker is bringing a steel chair into play here. This is where things are going to get really dangerous! We’ve already seen how vicious Britt can be, and now she’s looking to take things to a whole new level.
Nigel McGuinness: This is a mistake from Tam if she doesn’t think ahead. Britt’s one of the most resourceful women in the business, and she’s using the environment to her advantage. She’s not just a wrestler—she’s a strategist.
Britt Baker attempted a superplex, but Tam countered, sending Britt crashing down onto the chair with a suplex. The referee began the count, but Britt was already stirring, pushing herself up to one knee. Tam’s eyes narrowed as she sized up her opponent, knowing she had to do more to keep Britt down for the ten-count. Tam hit the ropes and leaped, delivering a picture-perfect moonsault onto Britt, knocking the chair aside. The crowd roared as Tam once again tried to force the count, but Britt staggered to her feet before the referee could even reach five.
Determined to break her down, Tam continued her assault, pulling out another weapon—this time a kendo stick. She cracked it across Britt’s back, then repeated the strike, each hit leaving a satisfying crack echoing through the arena. But just when it seemed like Tam had the upper hand, Britt roared with defiance and snatched the kendo stick out of her hands, breaking it in half before tossing it aside. The two women exchanged a flurry of blows in the middle of the ring, neither willing to back down. But it was Britt who would land the decisive blow. With a sudden, vicious kick to Tam’s midsection, Britt set her up for the Lockjaw.
Mauro Ranallo: Britt’s trying to lock in that Lockjaw, and I think she’s got it!
Tam struggled, her legs kicking out in desperation, but Britt managed to clamp down on the submission. Tam’s face contorted in pain as she reached for the ropes, but in this match, the ropes meant nothing. Tam fought valiantly, managing to break free from the hold by rolling out of the ring, but the damage had been done. Britt was relentless, stalking her opponent like a predator, knowing she could end it any time now. She grabbed a steel ladder from under the ring and set it up, her eyes locked on Tam as she slowly made her way up.
Nigel McGuinness: This is insane! What is Britt Baker thinking? She’s already been through so much, but now she’s going high-risk! And there’s nowhere to run for Tam!
Tam, still dazed from the *Lockjaw* and the brutal chair shots, staggered to her feet, but by the time she turned around, it was too late. Britt had climbed the ladder and launched herself into the air with a *Curb Stomp*, driving Tam’s face into the steel steps. The impact was deafening, and the sound of Tam’s head meeting the steel rung out through the arena, sending a shockwave of gasps through the crowd. The referee immediately began the count, but there was no movement from Tam. The fans were on their feet, holding their breath as the count reached eight... nine... and finally, at ten, the bell rang.
Christy Hemme: Here is your winner, AND NEW EBWF Women’s World Champion… Britt Baker!
Britt Baker held the title high above her head, a smirk on her face as she gazed down at the motionless Tam Nakano.
Mauro Ranallo: I think this has been one hell of a night, Nigel! Dr. Britt Baker is the EBWF Women’s Champion!
Nigel McGuinness: She was nearly convinced it couldn’t be done, and on the night before Christmas she leaves with the gold!
A video for the main event began to play.
Mauro Ranallo: It is time for our main event… CM Punk defends the EBWF World Championship against The Miz inside one of professional wrestling’s most dangerous match types… Hell in a Cell!
Ominous music played as the 20 foot cell structure lowered from the rafters. When the cell was in position, “I Came To Play” by Downstait hit and the crowd booed as The Miz made his way to the ring. As Miz entered the cell, the crowd taunted him by chanting “CM Punk”. The chants seemed to anger The Miz, who began pacing back and forth around the ring. “Cult of Personality” hit, and the fans inside the arena erupted as CM Punk walked out, the EBWF World Championship over his shoulder.
Nigel McGuinness: CM Punk getting a hero’s welcome here in his hometown of Chicago!
As Punk reached the bottom of the ramp, he handed his title to one of the officials at ringside, then entered the cell. As the cell door was locked, Punk climbed into the ring, locking eyes with The Miz. There was visible hatred in the eyes of both superstars as the referee called for the bell. As the bell rang, Miz and Punk walked towards one another, talking smack in the center of the ring before exchanging punches back and forth. After gaining the upper hand, Punk swung a kick at Miz, but Miz blocked it, then threw Punk out of the ring. Miz followed Punk to the outside and grabbed him, trying to whip Punk against the cell… but Punk reversed the Irish whip, launching Miz into the side of the cage! As Miz fell to the floor, Punk lifted up the ring apron, grabbing a table from underneath the ring. Punk slid the table into the ring, then grabbed a steel chair and approached Miz… but as Punk went to hit Miz with the chair, Miz blocked it, then hit Punk with a low blow!
Mauro Ranallo: What a cheap shot!
Nigel McGuiness: Miz was defending himself, Mauro! Besides, anything goes inside Hell in a Cell!
Punk dropped the chair and Miz picked it up, slamming the chair over Punk’s back before throwing Punk into the steel ring steps. Miz then reached underneath the ring, pulling out a lead pipe, and as Punk got to his feet, Miz went to hit him with the pipe… but Punk dodged out of the way at the last second! Miz hit the cell with the pipe, then dropped it as it ricocheted back towards him. Punk grabbed Miz from behind, slamming his head against the cell before throwing him back into the ring. As he re-entered the ring, Punk set the table up, then placed Miz onto the table. After hitting Miz with a series of punches, Punk climbed to the top rope, and went to his Miz with a diving elbow drop… but Miz moved out of the way at the last second!
Mauro Ranallo: Punk took a risk there… and he might have just swung the momentum of this match in Miz’s favor!
As Punk crashed through the table, Miz covered him. The referee counted - 1… 2… Punk kicked out! Miz then threw Punk out of the ring, followed him to the outside, and threw Punk against the side of the cell before picking up the ring steps. Miz then charged towards Punk, hitting him full force with the steps!
Nigel McGuinness: The sound of that shot with the ring steps just echoed throughout the arena, Mauro! CM Punk may have a concussion after that!
Mauro Ranallo: That’s not all, Nigel… The Miz has busted the World Champion open!
The camera cut to a close up of CM Punk, who sure enough had blood dripping down his face. Miz threw Punk back into the ring, then punched him in the face repeatedly. Soon enough, Miz’s fist was covered in Punk’s blood. Smiling sadistically, Miz wiped the blood against his chest, then pulled Punk to his feet and whipped him into the corner. After yelling “I hate you!”, Miz ran at Punk, going for the corner clothesline… but Punk got his knees up to block it! As Miz stumbled backwards, Punk climbed to the top rope, and hit Miz with a diving double axe handle! He hooked the leg and the referee counted - 1… 2… Miz kicked out!
Nigel McGuinness: His face might be crimson red, but CM Punk is undeterred here!
CM Punk pulled Miz to his feet, and lifted him up for the GTS… but Miz broke free, countering with a neckbreaker! Punk rolled out of the ring, giving himself a chance to recover. Miz followed Punk to the outside and grabbed Punk, then went to slam Punk’s head against the ring post… but Punk blocked it, before slamming Miz’s head into the side of the cell! Punk then grinded Miz’s face back and forth against the cell, drawing blood.
Mauro Ranallo: Good God almighty, Nigel… now both of these men are bleeding!
Nigel McGuinness: Our poor EMTs have been working overtime tonight, Mauro!
Punk threw Miz back into the ring and whipped him into the corner, hitting a step-up high knee followed by a bulldog. Punk then signaled for the GTS, lifted Miz up… and this time, he hit it! But as Miz hit the mat, he rolled out of the ring, landing on the floor.
Nigel McGuinness: I’m not sure if that was deliberate or just instinct from The Miz… but he might have saved himself by getting out of the ring there!
Punk shook his head, then rolled out of the ring. He grabbed Miz and threw him back into the ring, then hooked the leg. The referee counted - 1… 2… Miz kicked out! Punk pulled Miz to his feet and went for a second GTS… but Miz countered with a Skull Crushing Finale! Both men were down for several seconds, before Miz draped an arm over CM Punk. The referee counted - 1… 2… Punk kicked out just before the 3!
Mauro Ranallo: I’m not sure how much either of these men have left in the tank, Nigel! This match is clearly taking its toll on both CM Punk and The Miz!
Miz held his head, clearly dismayed at only getting a two count, then grabbed Punk by the legs, going for a figure four leglock… but Punk blocked it, before putting Miz in the Anaconda Vise! The crowd cheered and began chanting for Miz to tap, but with his free hand, Miz managed to gouge Punk in the eyes, forcing Punk to break the hold. Both men got to their feet, looking bloody and breathless. They began exchanging punches back and forth as the crowd cheered for Punk and booed Miz. With the crowd behind him, Punk was able to overpower The Miz, and after whipping Miz into the corner, Punk sat him on the top rope. Punk set Miz up for a superplex… but Miz countered it, superplexing Punk to the outside! The crowd began chanting “Holy Shit!” as both men hit the floor.
Nigel McGuinness: I’m not sure I’ve seen a counter like that before, Mauro! Both of these men could be seriously hurt!
Miz managed to get to his feet first, but he was visibly limping as he dragged Punk to his feet and whipped him back into the ring. Miz then grabbed the steel steps and slid them into the ring, before grabbing Punk and setting him up for a Skull Crushing Finale onto the steps… but Punk blocked it, countering with an Olympic Slam! Miz hit the steps with a loud thud, and after rolling him onto the mat, Punk hooked the leg. The referee counted - 1… 2… Miz kicked out at 2.9! Punk then pulled Miz to his feet, going for the GTS once again… but Miz was able to counter with a DDT onto the steps! He hooked the leg and the referee counted - 1… 2… again Punk kicked out!
Mauro Ranallo: What is it going to take to end this match?!
Nigel McGuinness: This is about more than the World Title, Mauro… these two men hate each other, and neither man wants to quit!
As Punk lay motionless on the ring mat, Miz rolled out of the ring and reached underneath the ring apron once more, this time grabbing a steel chain. Miz brought the chain into the ring and tried to choke Punk with it… but Punk managed to fight Miz off, hitting a jawbreaker! Punk then grabbed the chain, wrapped it around his fist, and as Miz got back to his feet, Punk clobbered him with the chain! Miz appeared to be out cold, but just to be sure Punk picked Miz up, lifted him over his shoulders, and hit one final GTS. Punk then slumped to the mat and covered Miz as the referee counted - 1… 2… 3!
Mauro Ranallo: It’s over! CM Punk wins, and goes into 2025 still the EBWF World Champion!
Nigel McGuinness: What a match that was, Mauro. A perfect way to end a brilliant night!
“Cult of Personality” began to play over the PA system, but it was drowned out by the chants of “CM Punk!” echoing throughout the United Center. As the cell was lifted, the referee grabbed the World Title and handed it to CM Punk, before raising his arm in victory. With what little energy he had left, Punk climbed the turnbuckle and held up his championship, celebrating as Christmas Eve of Destruction went off the air.
