SmackDown Heats Up Ahead of Survivor Series: WarGames
WWE SmackDown delivered another action-packed night on November 21, 2025, as the road to Survivor Series: WarGames continued from Denver’s Ball Arena. With high stakes tournament matches, championship opportunities, and tag team rivalries, the penultimate SmackDown before Survivor Series left fans buzzing with anticipation[1][3][7].
Ilja Dragunov Defends US Title in Another Open Challenge
United States Champion Ilja Dragunov, known as “The Mad Dragon,” has carved a reputation for his relentless fighting spirit, continuing the time-honored tradition of the US Title Open Challenge—a legacy reinvigorated by Sami Zayn and John Cena earlier this year[2][4].
After retaining his title against Aleister Black and Nathan Frazer in previous weeks, Dragunov once again put the championship on the line. This week’s challenger? The high-flying and technically gifted Nathan Frazer, representing the dynamic tag team Fraxiom[6][8][12].
Nathan Frazer Steps Up: A Showcase of Speed vs. Power
Frazer’s agility and innovative offense were on display as he sought to dethrone Dragunov. The match delivered a thrilling blend of styles: Frazer’s rapid attacks kept Dragunov on the defensive, but the champion’s resilience and trademark explosiveness proved decisive.
The Denver crowd was firmly invested, with several near-falls and reversals that underscored Frazer’s growing reputation as a future singles star. Ultimately, Dragunov’s championship mettle prevailed. After weathering Frazer’s aerial onslaught, Dragunov closed the bout with his devastating Torpedo Moscow, securing another successful title defense[10].
Backstage, a WWE insider revealed, “Ilja’s open challenge is fast becoming the highlight of SmackDown each week. There’s a real sense in the locker room that anyone could step up and make history. Dragunov is pushing the entire roster to elevate their game.”
#DIY vs. Fraxiom: Tag Team Excellence
Another marquee bout saw #DIY—Tommaso Ciampa and Johnny Gargano—face off against Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer & Axiom) in a contest fueled by recent animosity. Ciampa’s brutal attack on Axiom two weeks prior set the stage for a highly competitive tag match[3][13].
Both teams showcased why they are considered among WWE’s best. Axiom’s technical prowess and Frazer’s speed made for a compelling dynamic against the veteran chemistry of #DIY. The action was fast-paced, with frequent tags and innovative double-team maneuvers.
In the decisive moments, Gargano and Ciampa’s experience shone through. After a flurry of high-impact offense, Gargano locked in the Garga-No Escape on Frazer, forcing the tapout and giving #DIY a crucial victory ahead of Survivor Series[13].
Tournament Drama: The Last Time is Now
SmackDown’s tournament, titled “The Last Time Is Now,” continued with two first-round matches: Carmelo Hayes vs. Bronson Reed and Penta vs. Finn Bálor. Both contests had major implications, with winners advancing to join an elite field including Rusev, Sheamus, LA Knight, Jey Uso, Solo Sikoa, and GUNTHER in the quarterfinals[3][14].
- Carmelo Hayes vs. Bronson Reed: Hayes’ athleticism was matched by Reed’s power, but a surprise roll-up saw Hayes snatch the win.
- Penta vs. Finn Bálor: In a battle of international stars, Penta’s unorthodox offense caught Bálor off guard, leading to a decisive victory.
These results further intensified the tournament’s unpredictability, with fans speculating on potential future matchups.
Championship Celebrations and Surprises
The evening also featured a Women’s United States Championship Celebration for Chelsea Green, who reflected on her recent title win. The segment hinted at emerging challengers, setting the stage for the division’s next chapter[1][7].
With Survivor Series: WarGames looming, several top stars—including Cody Rhodes, LA Knight, and Tiffany Stratton—were on hand, further fueling speculation about last-minute team additions or dramatic twists[1].
Ilja Dragunov’s US Open Challenge: Who’s Next?
Dragunov’s commitment to the open challenge has injected new energy into SmackDown’s midcard scene. Multiple sources backstage suggest that Dragunov’s willingness to face all comers has inspired younger talent and increased competition for the US Title[2][4].
According to a source close to Cody Rhodes, “Ilja’s reign is redefining the US Championship. There’s never been more excitement around who’ll answer next. The roster is watching every week, ready for that moment.”
Fan Reactions and Social Media Buzz
WWE Universe members took to social media, praising Dragunov vs. Frazer as one of the best TV matches of the fall. #DIY’s victory further stoked online debates about potential Survivor Series team-ups, while the tournament’s surprises kept brackets in flux.
Looking Ahead: Survivor Series Implications
With Survivor Series: WarGames just days away, SmackDown’s momentum is undeniable. Ilja Dragunov’s continued dominance, #DIY’s resurgence, and the unpredictable tournament have set the stage for an explosive pay-per-view.
Key questions remain:
- Who will be next to answer Dragunov’s US Open Challenge?
- Can #DIY ride their momentum into WarGames glory?
- Which stars will emerge from “The Last Time Is Now” tournament to claim championship gold?
Stay tuned to WWE SmackDown for all the latest developments as the road to Survivor Series reaches its dramatic climax.
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“Every week, Ilja makes you believe you can be the one,” a backstage producer told reporters. “That’s what a champion should be.”