AJ Styles challenges James Ellsworth to a Ladder Match for a SmackDown LIVE contract: photos | WWE

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SmackDown LIVE Commissioner Shane McMahon kicks off SmackDown LIVE from Ottawa, Ontario.

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McMahon gives a shout out to Team Raw for their efforts at Survivor Series.

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Dean Ambrose joins McMahon one night after their victory at Survivor Series.

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Ambrose introduces “the man who singlehandedly took out Braun Strowman,” James Ellsworth.

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Ambrose tells McMahon to reveal the surprise he has for Ellsworth – that he’s getting a SmackDown LIVE contract.

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McMahon tells Ambrose he’s getting the night off – and he must leave the building – because he’s been “out of control” lately.

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WWE World Champion AJ Styles emerges and says Ambrose should be kicked out of SmackDown LIVE.

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Styles says Ellsworth doesn’t deserve a contract either, and proposes they meet in a Ladder Match.

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If Ellsworth wins, he gets a SmackDown LIVE contract.

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McMahon isn't so sure about this proposal.

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“AJ, I don’t have a problem fighting you tonight in a Ladder Match with my contract on the line. If you think about it, I’ve already beaten you twice!” Ellsworth says.

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Ellsworth also says he wants a future opportunity at the WWE World Championship, too.

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McMahon makes the Ladder Match official.

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