The November 28, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown was pre-taped in Denver, Colorado, delivering high-stakes tournament action, a dramatic Survivor Series elimination match, and significant developments in the women’s division. With the roster getting Thanksgiving week off, WWE packed this show with pivotal moments that will shape the road to the next premium live event.
The Last Time Is Now Tournament: Jey Uso and LA Knight Advance
SmackDown’s centerpiece this week was the “Last Time Is Now” tournament quarterfinals, setting up future championship pursuits and bragging rights.
Jey Uso vs. Rusev: Jey Uso continued his singles momentum, overcoming Rusev in a hard-fought opener. Uso secured victory after a high-impact Spear followed by his signature Splash, earning a spot in the semifinals[1][17].
LA Knight vs. The Miz: The night’s second tournament bout saw LA Knight face The Miz, who was embroiled in backstage drama with R-Truth over who should replace the injured Sheamus in the match. Ultimately, LA Knight prevailed, using his agility and ring awareness to outmaneuver The Miz for a decisive win[1][17].
According to a WWE insider who witnessed the tapings, “Jey looks more focused than ever, and LA Knight’s confidence backstage is through the roof. Management is watching them both very closely for a possible main event push in early 2026.”
Backstage Tension: The Miz, R-Truth, and Sheamus’ Injury Fallout
The show featured a tense backstage segment, as The Miz and R-Truth argued over filling Sheamus’ spot in the tournament. With Sheamus sidelined, speculation swirled about who would get the opportunity, leading to comedic but heated exchanges that could foreshadow a future tag team or singles storyline[1][17].
Sources close to The Miz revealed that he felt “slighted” by the decision, believing his veteran status warranted the slot. R-Truth, meanwhile, was seen joking with production staff but reportedly told friends, “One of these days, I’ll get my shot—maybe next week, maybe next year!”
Women’s Division: Chelsea Green’s Celebration Crushed by Jade Cargill
Fresh off her championship victory, Chelsea Green held a title celebration that was abruptly interrupted by Jade Cargill. Cargill made an immediate impact, laying Green out in the center of the ring and sending a clear message to the rest of the division[1].
Backstage, Green was visibly frustrated, reportedly telling producers, “Jade doesn’t deserve to steal my spotlight. If she wants a fight, she knows where to find me.” WWE officials are said to be considering a high-profile match between the two at an upcoming pay-per-view.
WarGames Build: Charlotte Flair Secures Advantage for Her Team
The women’s division also featured a crucial WarGames advantage match. Charlotte Flair defeated Asuka, giving her team the edge heading into the anticipated WarGames bout. Flair’s victory came clean, showcasing her technical prowess and ring IQ[1][11][15].
A source in WWE creative noted, “Charlotte’s leadership in WarGames is unquestioned. Asuka pushed her to the limit, but Charlotte’s experience made the difference. The babyface team is riding high heading into the final build.”
Survivor Series Fallout: Solo Sikoa Dominates in Elimination Main Event
The main event was a classic five-on-five Survivor Series elimination match, showcasing SmackDown’s top male talent:
- Team Sikoa (Solo Sikoa, Tama Tonga, Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, JC Mateo) vs. Team Sami (Sami Zayn, Shinsuke Nakamura, Rey Fenix, Chris Sabin, Alex Shelley)
Solo Sikoa emerged as the sole survivor, eliminating the last opponent—Sami Zayn—with an emphatic Samoan Spike. Sikoa’s dominance continues to cement his status as a rising force on SmackDown, while his teammates and opponents each had standout moments, including dramatic eliminations and high-flying offense[1][5][15][19].
According to a locker room source, “Solo’s intensity is unmatched right now. He’s got the respect of Tonga and Loa, and everyone’s watching to see if he’ll challenge for a singles title soon.”
Elimination Highlights
- Chris Sabin eliminated JC Mateo.
- Tama Tonga eliminated Shinsuke Nakamura.
- Rey Fenix eliminated Tonga Loa.
- Talla Tonga eliminated Alex Shelley.
- Solo Sikoa finished the match by eliminating Sami Zayn, standing tall as the sole survivor.
Additional Backstage Segments: WarGames Teams Face Off
The episode featured additional backstage segments with both the babyface and heel WarGames teams. Tensions ran high as strategies were discussed and psychological warfare ramped up ahead of the high-stakes WarGames match[1].
According to a WWE producer, “We’re seeing some of the most passionate promos this season. Everyone wants to make history at WarGames.”
Looking Ahead: SmackDown’s Road to the Next Pay-Per-View
With tournament semifinals set and new rivalries brewing, SmackDown is poised for a dramatic winter season. Jey Uso and LA Knight’s tournament wins may have title implications, while Solo Sikoa’s Survivor Series performance has raised his stock for future main-event opportunities.
The women’s division is equally heated, with Chelsea Green and Jade Cargill’s confrontation hinting at a blockbuster feud. Charlotte Flair’s WarGames victory positions her team as favorites, but Asuka and her allies are expected to regroup and retaliate.
Key Takeaways and SEO Highlights
- Jey Uso and LA Knight advance in “The Last Time Is Now” tournament, setting up future main event potential.
- Chelsea Green’s title reign is immediately challenged by Jade Cargill, foreshadowing a marquee women’s feud.
- Charlotte Flair’s WarGames win gives her team a strategic advantage, solidifying her leadership role.
- Solo Sikoa’s Survivor Series triumph cements his reputation as SmackDown’s top rising star.
- Backstage drama involving The Miz, R-Truth, and Sheamus teases future storyline possibilities.
WWE SmackDown on November 28, 2025, delivered action, surprises, and storyline progression, confirming why it remains the flagship for sports entertainment fans worldwide[1][5][11][15][17][19].