The Black Friday edition of WWE SmackDown delivered a mix of excitement and disappointment, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next installment of the blue brand. From high-flying matches to lackluster moments, here’s a breakdown of what worked and what didn’t.
3 Things We Loved
1. The Main Event Steals the Show
The SmackDown main event, featuring Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, and Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Cody Rhodes, was an absolute masterpiece. The three-way match had it all: intense action, clever storytelling, and a shocking conclusion that left the audience stunned. According to a WWE insider, the plan was always to have Cody Rhodes emerge victorious, but the execution was anything but predictable.
“Cody Rhodes has been working tirelessly behind the scenes to perfect his character, and it paid off in the main event,” the insider revealed. “The chemistry between Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa added an extra layer of depth to the match, and it’s clear that Cody Rhodes is a force to be reckoned with in the blue brand.”
2. Raquel Rodriguez Continues to Impress
Raquel Rodriguez’s dominant performance against Natalya was a testament to her growing status as a top star on the SmackDown roster. With her quick combinations and relentless offense, Rodriguez left no doubt that she’s a force to be reckoned with in the women’s division.
“Raquel Rodriguez has been on a tear lately, and it’s not hard to see why,” said a source close to the SmackDown locker room. “She’s a natural-born wrestler with a tremendous work ethic, and it’s only a matter of time before she challenges for the SmackDown Women’s Championship.”
3. The Brawling USOS Bring the Heat
The Usos, Jimmy and Jey Uso, brought their signature high-energy style to the ring against the team of The Street Profits, and the result was an unforgettable tag team match. The Usos’ trademark brawling style, combined with their incredible athleticism, made for a truly unforgettable experience for the audience.
“The Usos are one of the most underrated teams in the WWE, and their match against The Street Profits was a perfect example of why,” said a WWE insider. “Their ability to blend brawling with high-flying moves is a true rarity in the world of professional wrestling.”
3 Things We Hated
1. The Pre-Show Falls Flat
The Black Friday edition of SmackDown got off to a lackluster start with the pre-show match between Ashante Adonis and Malcolm Bivens. The match was marred by poorly executed moves and a general lack of energy, leaving the audience feeling underwhelmed.
“Ashante Adonis has shown flashes of brilliance in the past, but this match was a clear misfire,” said a source close to the WWE. “Malcolm Bivens’ in-ring performance was lackluster, and the match overall felt like a waste of time.”
2. The Underrated Segment Falls Short
The backstage segment featuring Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler was heavily hyped, but the result was a lackluster and uneventful affair. The chemistry between the two women was apparent, but the segment lacked a clear direction or purpose.
“Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler have a natural chemistry that’s undeniable, but this segment was a disappointment,” said a WWE insider. “The lack of clear direction and a coherent storyline made the segment feel like a wasted opportunity.”
3. The Closing Segment Falls Flat
The closing segment featuring The New Day and The Bloodline was another disappointment, with the two teams failing to deliver a compelling matchup. The segment felt rushed and lacked any real tension or stakes.
“The New Day and The Bloodline have a natural rivalry that’s begging to be explored, but this segment was a misfire,” said a source close to the WWE. “The lack of clear direction and a coherent storyline made the segment feel like a waste of time.”
As the Black Friday edition of SmackDown comes to a close, one thing is clear: the blue brand has a lot of work to do to live up to its full potential. With a talented roster at its disposal, WWE has the ingredients for a truly unforgettable product – it’s just a matter of putting it all together.