WWE SmackDown delivered a high-octane episode live from Ball Arena in Denver, Colorado, on November 21, 2025, kicking off the final first-round matches of the much-hyped Last Time is Now Tournament and setting the stage for Survivor Series: WarGames. With the blue brand in full swing, fans witnessed pivotal moments, fierce competition, and unexpected twists, all fueling anticipation for WWE’s next major premium live event.
The Road to Survivor Series: WarGames Heats Up
With Survivor Series just days away, SmackDown’s narrative focused on building momentum and clarifying tournament brackets. The Last Time is Now Tournament, rumored to determine the legendary John Cena’s final opponent, featured two blockbuster first-round matches: Bronson Reed vs. Carmelo Hayes and Finn Bálor vs. Penta[3][6][8][10].
Tournament stakes are high, with winners advancing to join Rusev, Sheamus, LA Knight, Jey Uso, Solo Sikoa, and Gunther in the quarterfinals, making every match a potential career-defining moment[3][8][10].
Match 1: Bronson Reed vs. Carmelo Hayes — Power vs. Precision
The first tournament bout of the night saw “Big” Bronson Reed collide with Carmelo Hayes, a contest pitting brute force against athletic finesse[3][6][13].
- Bronson Reed, representing The Vision, entered the match with a reputation for crushing physicality and relentless offense.
- Carmelo Hayes, known for his agility and cocky charisma, looked to outmaneuver his larger opponent and stake his claim as a top contender.
The match was a showcase of contrast. Reed’s early dominance—using his size to ground Hayes—was met with resilience as Hayes battled back with lightning-quick counters. The turning point came when Reed attempted his signature Tsunami splash, only for Hayes to dodge and unleash a springboard cutter for a near fall.
In the closing moments, Reed powered through a series of strikes, catching Hayes with a thunderous Death Valley Driver for the pin. With this hard-fought victory, Bronson Reed advances to the tournament quarterfinals, earning respect from fans and competitors alike[3][6].
Backstage Reaction:
According to a WWE insider, “Bronson’s intensity tonight was off the charts. Carmelo gave him everything, but Reed’s focus on making a statement before Survivor Series is crystal clear. He wants Cena, and he’ll do whatever it takes.”
Match 2: Finn Bálor vs. Penta — Judgment Day’s Return to Form
The second tournament showdown featured Finn Bálor, representing Judgment Day, facing off against the enigmatic Penta[1][2][6][10].
- Finn Bálor returned to SmackDown seeking redemption and asserting Judgment Day’s dominance.
- Penta, known for his unorthodox offense and unpredictable style, presented a unique challenge.
The bout was a technical masterclass, with Bálor’s calculated strikes and submission attempts countered by Penta’s innovative offense, including a breathtaking Canadian Destroyer. The Denver crowd erupted as both men exchanged near falls and high-impact maneuvers.
Late in the match, Bálor capitalized on a missed dive by Penta, landing the Coup de Grâce for the decisive victory. Bálor’s win marks a critical step for Judgment Day, restoring momentum and positioning him as a tournament favorite[2][6][10].
Backstage Quote:
Sources close to Finn Bálor revealed, “Finn’s focus tonight was absolute—he’s determined to lead Judgment Day into Survivor Series with gold around his waist and Cena in his sights. This win was just the beginning.”
Tag Team Action: #DIY vs. Fraxiom
In tag team competition, the newly reformed #DIY—Johnny Gargano and Tommaso Ciampa—faced Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer & Axiom)[2][3][6][11].
- The match carried personal animosity, stemming from Ciampa’s recent attack on Axiom.
- Both teams showcased high-flying teamwork and technical prowess.
After a fast-paced exchange, #DIY’s experience proved vital, with Ciampa delivering a crushing Willow’s Bell followed by Gargano’s Slingshot DDT for the win. This victory reestablishes #DIY as a force in SmackDown’s tag division and hints at their ambitions for championship gold.
Chelsea Green’s Women’s United States Championship Celebration
SmackDown took a brief break from tournament action for Chelsea Green’s Women’s United States Championship celebration[1][2][5][6].
- Green, having recently captured the title, hosted a self-congratulatory segment, reveling in her achievement.
- The segment drew interruptions from several potential challengers, including Tiffany Stratton and Shotzi, teasing future rivalries.
Green’s confidence was evident as she proclaimed, “This isn’t just my moment—it’s the beginning of a new era. Any woman brave enough to step up will find out exactly why I’m champion.”
Tournament Bracket Update and Survivor Series Implications
With the results from Denver, the Last Time is Now Tournament quarterfinals are now set:
| Quarterfinalists |
|---|
| Rusev |
| Sheamus |
| LA Knight |
| Jey Uso |
| Solo Sikoa |
| Gunther |
| Bronson Reed |
| Finn Bálor |
Each competitor now has a clear path to what could be John Cena’s final match—a storyline that has captivated WWE audiences worldwide[8][10].
Looking Ahead: Survivor Series Build Intensifies
Tonight’s SmackDown not only advanced key storylines but also heightened the stakes for Survivor Series: WarGames. With Judgment Day regaining momentum, Bronson Reed making a major statement, and Chelsea Green setting herself atop the women’s division, the blue brand is primed for one of its most explosive pay-per-views of the year.
Backstage Buzz:
A veteran WWE producer commented, “The energy backstage tonight was electric. Everyone knows what’s at stake with the tournament and Cena’s legacy—expect fireworks at Survivor Series.”
Final Thoughts
WWE SmackDown (November 21, 2025) delivered on its promise of drama, athleticism, and unpredictability. With tournament brackets finalized and new rivalries brewing, the Ball Arena crowd witnessed a pivotal night on the road to Survivor Series: WarGames. As the dust settles, the question remains: Who will step up and seize the moment in John Cena’s Last Time is Now Tournament? Stay tuned—WWE’s next chapter promises to be unforgettable.