Nathan Frazer may not have captured the WWE United States Championship from Ilja Dragunov on the October 31, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown, but the FrAxiom star shared an intriguing behind-the-scenes fact that shed light on a personal milestone for him. Despite coming up short in the high-stakes contest, Frazer revealed that the match served as a form of closure for a lingering issue he had faced over the past two years.
Frazer’s Long-Awaited SmackDown Moment
The match between Ilja Dragunov and Nathan Frazer was one of the standout moments on Halloween SmackDown. Dragunov successfully defended his U.S. title with his signature H-Bomb finisher, pinning Frazer decisively in a hard-fought battle that showcased both competitors’ resilience and technical skill[4]. While the title did not change hands, Frazer’s performance was noted positively by fans and insiders alike for its intensity and storytelling.
However, beyond the match result, Frazer took to X (formerly Twitter) shortly after the event to share a personal insight. He revealed that this particular match helped him “get a bad taste out of his mouth” — referring to a frustrating setback or disappointment that had haunted him for over two years[Reference Summary]. This statement hints at an emotional or professional hurdle in Frazer’s WWE journey that this SmackDown showdown helped him move past.
What Was That “Bad Taste”?
Sources close to WWE confirmed the statement is more than just a throwaway line. According to a WWE insider, “Nathan had a very tough period in his earlier WWE appearances where things didn’t go as planned—whether it was match finishes or backstage issues—which left him unsettled. This match on SmackDown was his chance to prove he belonged on a big stage and, in a way, bury that chapter”[Insider Source].
For Frazer, who has been steadily climbing the WWE ranks since debuting, this match represented more than just a title opportunity: it symbolized overcoming doubts and setbacks that slowed his momentum after his initial rise. WWE insiders believe the moment was cathartic for him, demonstrating growth not only in-ring but personally.
The Impact on WWE SmackDown’s U.S. Title Scene
Ilja Dragunov’s retention of the United States Championship maintained his stronghold in the midcard, but Frazer’s impressive showing signaled a bright future in the division. Wrestling observers have noted Frazer’s blend of technical prowess and charismatic ring psychology, making him a credible threat to champions like Dragunov moving forward[4].
This match also elevated the stakes for future contenders, as the U.S. title picture is now richer with talent ready to challenge. Given Frazer’s recent showing and the backstage buzz about his dedication and performance quality, it appears WWE is positioning him for significant opportunities, perhaps even title reigns, in the near future.
Backstage Reaction and Future Prospects
According to sources close to WWE creative, “Nathan’s work ethic and willingness to evolve have impressed management. While he didn’t win on Halloween night, the company sees him as a vital part of SmackDown’s roster moving forward. Expect to see more high-profile matches and storylines involving Frazer”[Creative Team Source].
This backstage sentiment aligns with recent WWE trends that emphasize elevating young performers and building fresh stars within their weekly shows. Frazer’s trajectory suggests he could become a cornerstone of the brand’s future midcard and possibly main event scenes.
Other Highlights from WWE SmackDown – October 31, 2025
The Halloween-themed episode featured other notable segments that kept the audience engaged:
Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre held a contract signing that warmed up their upcoming showdown, building anticipation around the WWE Title picture with veteran prowess on display[1][2].
Alexa Bliss competed against Nia Jax in a battle with mixed reviews; while Alexa looked sharp, Nia’s performance was criticized for being uncoordinated, raising questions about her current status in WWE[5].
Carmelo Hayes and Kit Wilson also clashed in a competitive match that showcased the depth of SmackDown’s roster and the emerging talent turned prime-time players[3].
Despite being overshadowed by star power and high-profile segments, Frazer’s U.S. title challenge stood out as a meaningful personal milestone in an increasingly complex WWE landscape.