In their first match, Lio Rush narrowly escaped with a victory against former WWE Cruiserweight Champion Akira Tozawa. Despite the loss, The Stamina Monster wanted a second opportunity to silence The Man of the Hour. After reluctance from Rush, WWE 205 Live General Manager Drake Maverick made the match.
Before the bout got underway, Rush addressed the WWE Universe, disparaging their hometown but explaining that they had the privilege of watching the 23-year-old Piece of Gold in action. The Man of the Hour then explained that Tozawa is going to face the best Cruiserweight in the world once again. Brimming with confidence, Rush awaited Tozawa, who approached the ring ready for a fight.
As the match began, Tozawa charged forward, not allowing Rush to remove his jewelry. As The Man of the Hour attempted to escape, The Stamina Monster remained relentless. Attempting to use his bracelet as a distraction, Rush was again taken down before trying to make his way back to the locker room.
Tozawa gave chase and tossed his opponent back into the ring. Although Rush enjoyed a brief reprieve, the Japanese Superstar remained in control of the contest. Desperate to get back on track, Rush pushed Tozawa into the ring post and quickly unleashed his technical arsenal.
With the WWE Universe behind him, Tozawa recovered and once again mounted a striking offense before The Man of the Hour stopped him by countering a standing senton. Once again, Rush applied his technical prowess, but he soon found himself overwhelmed, culminating in a dive to the outside and a devastating submission hold that nearly secured the victory for Tozawa.
Rush broke free and turned up the speed, hitting Tozawa with an impactful kick. The Man of the Hour’s frustration grew, and as he tried to execute the Final Hour, Tozawa struck back, and the two Superstars battled on the top rope with Rush avoiding a superplex. Rush wisely knocked his opponent’s legs out from under him, sending Tozawa crashing to the mat. Wasting no time, Rush hit his patented Final Hour for the victory.