The WWE Universe witnessed a moment of confusion during this week’s episode of WWE Raw, one that might significantly affect the Intercontinental Championship picture heading into Survivor Series. During a four-way match featuring Ricochet, The Miz, Ivar, and Bronson Reed, the objective was to determine the number one contender for Gunther’s title. However, the bout concluded with an unexpected turn of events.
The dramatic climax unfolded when Ivar and The Miz simultaneously secured pinfalls on their opponents. While Ivar had Ricochet pinned, The Miz did the same to Reed. As both men’s shoulders were on the mat, Ricochet seemed to kick out at two, creating a moment of utter bewilderment. The commentators and the official appeared puzzled, tentative as if unsure of how to proceed, hinting at the possibility that Ricochet’s response was unplanned.
Insider reports suggest that Ricochet was supposed to stay down for the three-count, effectively leading to the rare outcome of a double pin. Sources indicate that Ricochet may have been shaken up earlier in the match, contributing to the miscue of kicking out unexpectedly. Esteemed wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer of Wrestling Observer Radio provided further insight, revealing the original agenda for the post-match segment.
Adam Pearce, WWE’s on-screen authority figure, was scripted to enter the fray declaring that, due to the double pin finish, a match would be set for the following week between The Miz and Ivar to resolve the stalemate. The winner would then meet Gunther for the esteemed championship at Survivor Series. Ivar’s spontaneous moonsault on The Miz was an ad-libbed solution enabling this narrative.
Although plans can shift in the pro wrestling world, it appears the eventual intention was to set The Miz up as Gunther’s adversary for the championship come Survivor Series. This match aligns with the high-stakes encounters already unveiled for the big event, scheduled for Saturday, November 25, 2023.
In addition to the Intercontinental Championship bout, the women’s division will also be in the spotlight. Zoey Stark is poised to take on Rhea Ripley for the WWE Women’s World Championship, assuring an intense contest. Moreover, a return to the classic WarGames match is slated with an impressive lineup: Seth Rollins, Cody Rhodes, Jey Uso, Sami Zayn will go to war against Judgment Day—comprised of Finn Balor, Damian Priest, Dominik Mysterio, and JD McDonagh.
Excitement for Survivor Series is mounting, and for those wishing to enjoy the spectacle with fellow fans, the WrestleTalk Survivor Series Watch Party offers a prime opportunity. Hosted at the Long Arm Sports Bar & Pub in London, it’s an event not to be missed. As WWE continues to build momentum towards one of its premier pay-per-views, fans will be eagerly anticipating how these surprising twists and turns play out in the squared circle, where anything can happen.
Credit: WrestleTalk.com for the initial report and transcription used in this analysis.
