The October 3rd episode of WWE SmackDown delivered a mix of high-octane action and intriguing storylines that set the stage for the upcoming Crown Jewel event. From impressive tag team clashes to notable backstage tensions, the night offered moments that thrilled and some that disappointed fans and critics alike. Here’s an in-depth look at 3 things we loved and 3 things we hated from this week’s SmackDown, plus an insider’s perspective on what it means moving forward.
3 Things We Loved
1. The Vision’s Dominant Performance Elevates The Undercard
Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed, collectively known as The Vision, made a huge impact Friday night by defeating Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton in a hard-fought tag team match. Their chemistry and raw power were on full display as Breakker’s spear through the barricade and Reed’s finishing Tsunami delivered some of the most memorable moments of the evening[3][4]. This victory solidified The Vision as a credible threat in the SmackDown ranks and provided a preview of their potential to disrupt the existing hierarchy.
2. Sami Zayn’s United States Title Open Challenge Continues to Impress
Sami Zayn once again showed why he remains one of the most engaging fighting champions on the roster, successfully defending his United States Championship in yet another open challenge that keeps fans guessing who might step up next[2]. While the challenger wasn’t revealed during the broadcast, Zayn’s charisma and in-ring prowess consistently elevate the title’s prestige, offering fresh matchups week to week ahead of Crown Jewel.
3. Cody Rhodes Commands the Crowd with Charismatic Promo Work
Cody Rhodes opened the show to a strong pop from the Cincinnati crowd, engaging fans with his trademark confidence and presence[1]. Despite interruptions from Paul Heyman and The Vision, Rhodes handled the verbal attack like a seasoned pro, maintaining control and further establishing his role at the center of SmackDown’s ongoing narratives. According to a WWE insider, “Cody’s promo work continues to be a driving force for house show excitement and TV ratings alike. He’s arguably the face of SmackDown right now”[1].
3 Things We Hated
1. Seth Rollins’ Interference Overshadowed Match Flow
While Rollins’ interference in the main event gave The Vision the upper hand, it dampened the pure in-ring storytelling between two legendary performers, Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton[4]. Rollins’ attack disrupted the flow, and some viewers felt it was a cheap way to protect both opponents, leaving the match feeling less decisive. Fans have voiced fatigue over overbooked finishes, and this episode fed into that frustration.
2. Underwhelming Women’s Division Segment
Though Tiffany Stratton was advertised for a segment building to her Crown Jewel title defense against Stephanie Vaquer, the women’s division felt like an afterthought on this night’s card. The brief mention without a substantial in-ring exchange or storyline progression left a gap in the show, especially given the growing interest in women’s wrestling on SmackDown[4]. Sources close to the creative team hinted at recent disagreements over how to best showcase the women’s roster, which may explain the lack of compelling content this week.
3. Paul Heyman’s Promo Tones Down Momentum
Paul Heyman’s verbal assault on Randy Orton and Cody Rhodes was designed to build tension, but it came off as repetitive and overly expository, sapping some of the momentum heading into Crown Jewel[1][2]. The interrupted flow and Heyman’s predictable insults failed to add nuance to the storyline, making the segment drag for viewers who expected fresher angles ahead of the premium live event.
Backstage Buzz: Wrestling With the Future of SmackDown
According to a WWE insider, the tensions visible on-screen between The Vision and the established champions symbolize a broader shift backstage. “There’s a palpable feeling that WWE wants to elevate newer stars like Breakker and Reed while leveraging Rhodes and Orton’s veteran presence to create dynamic storytelling,” the source revealed. “But balancing fresh faces with legends is tricky, and some of these booking choices reflect the company’s struggle to get it right before Crown Jewel.”
The insider added that despite mixed reactions, the company is committed to building toward a memorable October pay-per-view and that tonight’s SmackDown was intentionally designed to sow seeds of dissension and excitement, even if some segments appeared uneven.
Looking Ahead to WWE Crown Jewel 2025
With the world heavyweight and undisputed WWE championships both up for grabs at Crown Jewel, the October 3rd episode laid important groundwork: Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins’ rivalry intensified, while The Vision positioned themselves as game-changers on SmackDown. The division lines appear blurred as veterans and newcomers collide, promising fiery clashes in Riyadh.
As the landscape evolves, SmackDown will need to refine its storytelling and minimize interruptions to fully capitalize on its talent pool. Fans can expect more open challenges from Sami Zayn and hopefully a bigger spotlight on the women’s division as well.
WWE SmackDown continues to deliver a blend of electrifying in-ring action and dramatic narrative twists. While this week showed flashes of brilliance, it also revealed areas in need of polish as WWE charges toward one of its biggest international events of the year.