On Tuesday, May 12, WWE taped the May 14 edition of “Smackdown” in Evansville, Indiana. The showing of “Smackdown” served as the final piece of WWE programming prior to the 2015 “Payback” pay-per-view.
Below are spoilers for the May 14 “Smackdown:”
Dean Ambrose kicked off “Smackdown,” receiving a beyond favorable reaction from the WWE Universe. He cut a promo on his upcoming Fatal 4 Way match for the WWE World Heavyweight Championship at “Payback.” Roman Reigns came out during Ambrose’s promo, and the two former Shield brethren both began to cut a promo on Kane. A distraught Kane put Ambrose in action next.
1) Dean Ambrose def. Sheamus- In what was more of a brawl than a wrestling match, Dean Ambrose pulled out a victory. Ambrose surprised Sheamus with a pin, following a big uppercut in the corner.
Backstage, Kane and Seth Rollins chatted. The on-screen WWE Director of Operations told Rollins, the WWE World Heavyweight Champion, he will be facing Ryback later in the night.
Next, Lana and Rusev entered, cutting a promo about the I Quit match between Rusev and United States Champion John Cena at “Payback.” Rusev had Lana apologize for her recent actions, which included her taking in support from the WWE Universe, and dancing with Fandango.
2) Seth Rollins def. Ryback- Before the match, Rollins cut a promo on his upcoming title defense. As Ryback made his way to the ring, he was ambushed by Bray Wyatt. After the attack, Rollins believed he would win the match via forfeiture. However, “The Big Guy” toughed it out and competed. Still, the battered Ryback was no match for Rollins.
A promo from Naomi and Tamina Snuka aired.
3) Tyson Kidd (w/ Cesaro and Natalya) def. Kofi Kingston (w/ Big E and Xavier Woods)- Kidd bested Kingston with a “Sharpshooter.”
4) Neville def. Bo Dallas- Before the match, WWE began airing an update on the health of Daniel Bryan. It would be cut off by Bo Dallas, who cut a promo on the injured star. Neville interrupted to a huge cheer, and faced Dallas, as King Barrett joined the commentary team. After Neville won, his “Payback” opponent, King Barrett, cut a promo.
A backstage segment with Adam Rose and his Rosebuds aired.
5) Roman Reigns def. Kane in a No Disqualification match- The only way to win this match was via pinfall or submission. A number of weapons were used in this brutal match, including kendo sticks and steel steps. After sustaining attack after attack from Kane, Reigns battled back to win the match. “Smackdown” closed with Reigns standing tall.