On the August 2, 2012 edition of Impact Wrestling, Mickie James, Tara, Madison Rayne and Gail Kim competed in a 4-Way match, to determine Brooke Tessmacher’s opponent at TNA Hardcore Justice…

Knockouts – August 2, 2012 Impact Wrestling Match:
TNA Knockouts Tag-Team Match:
Madison Rayne vs. Gail Kim vs. Mickie James vs. Tara

—Christy Hemme introduced Knockouts Champion Miss Tessmacher, who joined the commentators for guest commentary. Tara came out to the ring next, followed by Madison Rayne with a teddy bear in hand. A recap of last week’s questionable finish was played, followed by Gail Kim making her entrance. Mickie James was out last for this match. The match began with Gail Kim going at it with Tara, and Mickie going at it with Madison Rayne. This match saw Madison Rayne and Madison Rayne work together throughout to dominate Mickie and Tara. Tara seemed to have everything under control at the end, until Madison stopped her from attempting a moonsault… Tara found herself getting a top rope suplex from Gail Kim, which took her out of the match. Mickie James then seemed to have things going her way, until being thrown off the top ropes by Gail Kim. Tara returned to action with a Widow’s peak to Kim. She then rolled up Madison Rayne and looked to have won the match. Unfortunately for Tara, Earl Hebner called the match in Madison’s favor…

Winner(s): Madison Rayne at 7:27

Also on the show, Brooke Hogan returned to Impact Wrestling, involved in the Aces and Eights storyline.

ODB and Eric Young were also involved in a backstage segment. ODB talked about them not defending the Knockouts Tag-Team Championships in 2 months.

Thoughts: This match had shaky spots, as would be expected from a 4-Way. But as usual, great job by the ladies. The match’s outcome was predictable—considering Madison’s recent angle with Earl Hebner, but the outcome at TNA Hardcore Justice, not so much. The match could go either way… Miss Tessmacher successfully defending the belt, or Madison Rayne becoming Knockouts Champion.

As for the Knockouts Tag-Team titles, at least the belts were acknowledged. It is unclear if the segment meant that something would be done with the belts, or if the segment was an excuse for the belts not to be defended.