After signing the contract for his SummerSlam title match against Drew Gulak, WWE Cruiserweight Champion Cedric Alexander aims to make an example out of The Brian Kendrick.

Setting out to prove his is indeed a fighting champion despite Drew Gulak’s assertions to the contrary, Alexander faced the daunting challenge of former Cruiserweight Champion and veteran The Brian Kendrick. Hoping to send a message by defeating Gulak’s ally, Alexander was fully aware that Kendrick is a relentless and dangerous technician and must that he must be wary of suffering any damage with only weeks until SummerSlam.

The Soul of WWE 205 Live refused to back down early in the match, breaking free of Kendrick’s advances and holds by using his own unique skillset of speed and power. The WWE Cruiserweight Champion remained focused and maintained a dominant advantage against his opponent, much to the delight of the WWE Universe. However, as Alexander’s momentum reached its peak, Drew Gulak made his way to the ring. The distraction allowed Kendrick to roll to the outside and under the ring apron.

As Alexander went to retrieve The Man With a Plan, Kendrick pulled him into ringside before tossing him into the steel steps. As Gulak joined the commentary team, Kendrick began to unleash his rage on the champion. Combining his technical ability with hard-hitting strikes, Kendrick left Alexander reeling and on defense. As they exchanged blows in the center of the ring, The Soul of WWE 205 Live began to regain his composure, hitting Sliced Bread No. 2 and flattening his opponent on the outside.

Showing the resilience that helped earn him the WWE Cruiserweight Championship, Alexander continued to strike, scoring several near-falls as Gulak grew increasingly frustrated. Desperate to regain control, Kendrick pulled the champion out of the ring before masterfully applying the Captain’s Hook as Alexander reentered.

Refusing to give up, Alexander barely made it to the ropes to break the hold. Frustrated, Kendrick attempted his signature maneuver a second time but was countered, bringing the battle back to a stalemate.

Kendrick and Alexander continued to exchanged strikes and counters, and The Man With a Plan hit a near-perfect superkick. With Kendrick attempting to capitalize and again execute Sliced Bread No. 2, Alexander countered and nailed his opponent with the Lumbar Check for the win.

As Alexander celebrated in the ring, Gulak confronted the champion. This allowed Gulak’s other ally, Gentleman Jack Gallagher, to level Alexander. As Gulak, Gallagher and Kendrick prepared to attack Alexander, WWE 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick charged into the ring, forcing the aggressors to retreat or else Gulak would lose his SummerSlam opportunity.