This week’s WWE SmackDown, which aired live from the SAP Center in San Jose, California, was an electrifying event filled with significant matches and story developments. The show, following the recent WWE Crown Jewel event, featured top superstars and exciting bouts that set the stage for upcoming storylines.
Introduction to the Evening
The evening kicked off with Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes, who addressed his recent loss to Seth Rollins at Crown Jewel. Rhodes, known for his charismatic presence, set the tone for the night by discussing his plans to regain momentum and challenge for the title once again. This segment was crucial in setting up potential future matches and establishing Rhodes’ determination to reclaim his title.
“It’s always about resilience,” a source close to Cody Rhodes revealed. “After a tough loss like that, you have to regroup and refocus. Cody is more determined than ever to get back on top.”
Featured Matches and Storylines
Jacob Fatu vs. Drew McIntyre
One of the most anticipated matches of the evening was between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre. The two superstars have been involved in a volatile rivalry, promising a high-energy clash. Fatu, known for his aggressive style, was looking to capitalize on his momentum after re-emerging as a force in the WWE universe. Meanwhile, McIntyre aimed to prove why he remains one of the top contenders in the WWE.
The match was marked by intense moments, with both competitors showcasing their strength and determination. Despite the aggression displayed by both men, the outcome was closely contested, highlighting the competitive nature of WWE’s current roster.
WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match
The WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship was on the line as incumbents Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss defended their titles against the challenging duo of Zaria and Sol Ruca, representing NXT. Despite their differences, Flair and Bliss have been effective titleholders, but ZaRuca saw this as an opportunity to prove themselves by dethroning The Queen and Five Feet of Fury.
The match showcased the growing talent in WWE’s women’s division, with both teams delivering impressive performances. The competition was fierce, with each side pushing the other to new heights.
Aftermath of Crown Jewel
The episode also served as a fallout show from Crown Jewel, where significant events, including Seth Rollins’ controversial win over Cody Rhodes, set new storylines in motion. The show began the build towards future events like WWE SNME and Survivor Series.
Additional Highlights
- Aleister Black made headlines with his intense match against Damian Priest in recent weeks, showcasing the unpredictable nature of SmackDown’s mid-card.
- Sami Zayn successfully defended his United States Championship against Shinsuke Nakamura, marking another significant title bout.
- The return of Tama Tonga added a new dynamic to the show, with his faction, MFT, setting sights on The Wyatt Sicks.
Backstage Insights
According to a WWE insider, the upcoming weeks will see a significant shift in alliances and rivalries. “Fans can expect some surprises in team ups and rivalries as we head into Survivor Series,” the source noted. This hints at potential new alliances and dramatic turns in the storylines of top superstars.
Conclusion
This week’s SmackDown was a testament to WWE’s ability to deliver high-quality matches and compelling storylines. With Cody Rhodes’ determination to reclaim his title, the fiery rivalry between Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre, and the ongoing drama in the women’s division, fans are in for an exciting ride as the WWE moves forward to its next major events.
As the WWE Universe heads towards Survivor Series, the anticipation for more intense matches and plot twists is building. With superstars like Cody Rhodes, Charlotte Flair, and Sami Zayn at the forefront, the future of WWE looks brighter than ever.