The October 3, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown aired live from Cincinnati’s Heritage Bank Center, setting the stage for the impending Crown Jewel pay-per-view with high stakes and tensions running deep. This SmackDown episode featured a headline tag match of Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton versus the rising powerhouse duo, The Vision (Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed). Along with contract signings and open challenges, the show delivered moments that fans both appreciated and criticized. Here is a detailed breakdown of three highlights and three low points from the night.
3 Things We Loved
1. The Intriguing Main Event and The Vision’s Victory
The closing tag team bout pitting Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton against Bron Breakker and Bronson Reed was a solid in-ring contest with plenty of intensity. The Vision’s teamwork and power outmatched the veteran duo, culminating in a clean victory thanks to a decisive Tsunami from Reed following Seth Rollins’ interference. This result not only showcased The Vision as legitimate threats in WWE but also further complicated the narrative for Crown Jewel[3][4][5].
The post-match segment was particularly compelling, as Seth Rollins, despite warnings from Paul Heyman, attempted to attack Cody Rhodes, only to be countered by a CrossRhodes—a moment that sets up intriguing tension for the upcoming showdowns[3][4].
2. Paul Heyman’s Manipulative Promo
Paul Heyman once again demonstrated why he is one of WWE’s best mouthpieces. Interrupting Cody Rhodes’ opening mic segment, Heyman came out flanked by The Vision members and directed his words primarily at Randy Orton. Heyman’s attempt to sow discord between Rhodes and Orton, emphasizing Orton’s unavailability and questioning their partnership, added compelling psychological drama that went beyond simple wrestling promos[1][2][3].
A WWE insider revealed, “Heyman’s promo was a calculated move to undermine the alliance of Rhodes and Orton before their critical match at Crown Jewel,” adding layers to the rivalry[Source].
3. Contract Signing Hype for Women’s Championship Match
The contract signing segment between Tiffany Stratton and Stephanie Vaquer for the Women’s Crown Jewel Championship match provided a much-needed spotlight on SmackDown’s women’s division. The heated verbal exchanges heightened anticipation for their title bout, showcasing mature storytelling and character dynamics that enhanced viewer interest[4].
3 Things We Hated
1. Seth Rollins’ Callous Interference and Mixed Messaging
While Seth Rollins’ interference influenced the match outcome dramatically, his motivations remained perplexing. Rollins attacked Randy Orton with a Curb Stomp, costing the veteran team the match. Yet, when Rollins sought to strike Cody Rhodes next, Rhodes countered effectively. The ambiguous allegiance and mixed messaging left many fans confused about Rollins’ character direction[3][4].
Backstage, source-close to WWE creative noted, “Rollins’ actions are deliberately murky to build suspense, but it risks alienating viewers who prefer clear-cut character motives.” The creative gamble could polarize fan opinion if not resolved soon[Source].
2. Lack of Long-Term Payoff in the Main Event
Though the main event was exciting, some critiques noted its forgettable nature in the long run. Despite a near-16-minute run-time and impactful interference, the match lacked standout signature moments or lasting spectacle. The finish felt more like a setup than a climax, somewhat diminishing immediate satisfaction[3].
One fan online wrote, “Great build, but the payoff lacked that special something to make it memorable beyond the evening.”
3. Overreliance on Interferences and Outside Factors
The show leaned heavily on interference and backstage antics—Paul Heyman’s distraction leading to Rollins’ interference, followed by complex back-and-forth attacks. While this layered storytelling adds intrigue, some fans and pundits argue SmackDown risks diminishing the wrestlers’ in-ring performances by masking decisive moments behind outside help[1][3][4].
A veteran wrestling analyst commented, “Too many outside factors can dilute the competitiveness that made WWE’s golden age so special. SmackDown must strike a better balance.”
Additional Noteworthy Moments
Sami Zayn’s Successful United States Title Defense: Sami Zayn retained his United States Championship in a strong outing, adding value to SmackDown’s midcard scene[2].
Aleister Black Accepts Open Challenge: Black accepted Sami Zayn’s open challenge, promising exciting matchups in the coming weeks that maintain momentum ahead of big events[4].
Promotion of Crown Jewel Matches: The episode effectively pushed several Crown Jewel storylines, including Cody Rhodes’ title defense and the contract signing with Divas, increasing stakes and viewer interest.
Behind the Scenes: WWE’s Strategic Storytelling
Sources close to Cody Rhodes shared insights into WWE’s storytelling approach this week: “The Rhodes-Orton partnership was always meant to be unstable, and Heyman’s interference is clearing the path for a rollercoaster storyline leading to their showdown at Crown Jewel. Meanwhile, The Vision’s rise reflects WWE’s investment in fresh talent to keep fans engaged.”
As WWE navigates the road to one of its biggest international events of the year, SmackDown’s balance of veteran clashes, emerging stars, and promos like Heyman’s will be crucial in sustaining viewer excitement.
This episode of WWE SmackDown delivered with moments of intense drama and exciting matchups, though it struggled slightly with coherence in storytelling due to character ambiguity and overused interference tactics. Fans can expect these storylines to crescendo at Crown Jewel, with Cody Rhodes, Randy Orton, The Vision, Seth Rollins, and others locked in high-profile battles that have been carefully planted on this night in Cincinnati.