Fastlane 2018 kicks-off with a video package, followed by Shinsuke Nakamura making his way to the ring in Columbus Ohio. Big reception for Nakamura but it’s also a big reception for Aiden English as he steps out on stage. English does a rap about Rusev beating Nakamura and going on to WrestleMania. The fans chant along to Rusev Day, then out comes the man himself.
Shinsuke Nakamura Vs. Rusev W/Aiden English
Nakamura goes for a takedown early and Rusev gets a waistlock into a hip toss. Nakamura attempts a big kick to the head. Rusev dodges it, but Nakamura with a snapmare and drops a leg. Rusev with a big right that drops Nakamura. Rusev bails when Nakamura avoids a kick, Nakamure taunts him to come back in. Rusev gets back in, but bails again and English is by his side.
This time Nakamura jumps out, throws knees and then drops a leg over the neck of Rusev, who hands over the ring apron. Rusev catches Nakamura on his way back in. Rusev kicks Nakamura out and tosses him into the ring barricade. Rusev tosses Nakamura back first into the side of the ring and the barricade. Back inside, Nakamura gets a heel hook applied on Rusev. Rusev gets to the ropes to break it up. Rusev plants Nakamura when Nakamura charges. Rusev drops elbows over Nakamura and gets him in a headlock to slow down the action. Rusev with big knees. Nakamura drops Rusev with a kick coming off the ropes. Nakamura with big kicks to the chest of Rusev and follows with a big kick to the head. Nakamura props Rusev up in the corner and throws his high knee. Nakamura with knees to Rusev in the middle of the ring. Rusev catches Shinsuke with a fallaway slam to counter guillotine choke attempt by Nakamura. Rusev with a big knee to Nakamura.
The Brute is in control until Nakamura throws some wild elbows. Rusev responds with some kicks but Nakamura catches him with an axe kick. Rusev looks to finish things with a roll-up but Nakamura kicks out. Rusev goes for The Accolade but Nakamura counters with a roll up for a two count. Nakamura catches Rusev with a spin kick. Rusev with a huge superkick and Nakamura kicks out. Rusev can’t believe it. Nakamura counters an Accolade and hits a knee to the back of Rusev’s head. Rusev is trying to recover and his up on one knee. Nakamura powers-up in the corner, then runs and connects with the Kinshasa for the win!
Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura
Nakamura celebrates after the match. He is headed to WrestleMania with some much-needed momentum, where he will face the winner of tonight’s main event.
