Full Breakdown
Knicks Stars Shine in WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event at Madison Square Garden
7/19/2026, 8:19:45 PM
Core Event: Knicks Players Join WWE Show
On July 18, 2025-26, WWE’s Saturday Night’s Main Event returned to Madison Square Garden for the first time since 2007. In a No-Disqualification match, Danhausen faced JD McDonagh of The Judgment Day. After Danhausen retreated up the ramp to a “cloning machine” prop, Karl-Anthony Towns emerged from a cloud of smoke, chokeslammed McDonagh and then Dominik Mysterio through a wooden table, clearing the way for Danhausen to finish with a Triple D and claim victory.
Later in the broadcast, Jalen Brunson entered the ring with WWE World Heavyweight Champion Roman Reigns. Brunson, wearing a brace on his left wrist, received a custom Knicks-themed championship belt from Reigns, assisted Reigns in repelling an attack by Seth Rollins (who was distracted by Indiana Pacers guard Tyrese Haliburton), and together they celebrated with the NBA championship trophy.
Background & Context
Danhausen’s WWE storyline has been intertwined with the New York Knicks since the 2025-26 playoffs. Early in the postseason he “cursed” the Knicks, a stunt that coincided with a 2-1 first-round deficit to the Atlanta Hawks. After he “uncursed” the team, the Knicks won 15 of their final 16 playoff games, captured the NBA Finals 4-1 over the San Antonio Spurs, and secured the franchise’s first title since 1973. The WWE event deliberately highlighted that championship run, with Town T’s five-finger salute referencing the “Knicks in 5” triumph.
Key Figures & Groups
- Karl-Anthony Towns – Knicks center, NBA champion, lifelong wrestling fan who has cited Goldberg, Mick Foley, Stone Cold Steve Austin, and The Rock as inspirations.
- Jalen Brunson – Knicks point guard, NBA Finals MVP, known for a pre-game “Reigns-inspired handshake” with a trainer.
- Danhausen – WWE “Very Nice, Very Evil” character, self-styled mascot of the Knicks, engaged in a feud with The Judgment Day.
- JD McDonagh & Dominik Mysterio – Members of The Judgment Day, opponents in the No-DQ match.
- Roman Reigns – WWE World Heavyweight Champion, partnered with Brunson for the segment.
Data & Statistics
- Knicks postseason record after Danhausen’s “uncurse”: 15-1.
- NBA Finals result: 4-1 over the San Antonio Spurs.
- First Knicks championship in over 50 years (since 1973).
Why It Matters / Impact
The crossover event fused two of New York’s biggest sports brands, delivering a hometown spectacle that reinforced the Knicks’ championship narrative while showcasing the personal fandom of its stars. Towns’ in-ring performance and Brunson’s belt presentation illustrate how NBA athletes can enhance WWE’s local appeal, potentially opening avenues for future cross-promotional programming and merchandise collaborations.
Official Statements & Responses
- Karl-Anthony Towns on his wrestling persona:
“I’ll probably say I’m more of a Stone Cold [Steve Austin] fan…you go out there, no fear, no worries and just try to beat the other opponent up as much as possible.” — Karl-Anthony Towns, NBA center
The event was billed as a celebration of the Knicks’ championship, and the arena’s crowd responded with sustained ovations for both Towns and Brunson.
Criticism & Opposition
No source material presented dissenting viewpoints or criticism of the crossover.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources consistently describe Towns’ chokeslams, Brunson’s belt presentation, and the Knicks’ championship context. Reliability scores vary (35-46 %), but no factual discrepancies were identified.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I'll probably say I'm more of a Stone Cold [Steve Austin] fan...you go out there, no fear, no worries and just try to beat the other opponent up as much as possible.” — Karl-Anthony Towns
- “I'll probably say I'm more of a Stone Cold [Steve Austin] fan...you go out there, no fear, no worries and just try to beat the other opponent up as much as possible.” — Karl-Anthony Towns
