WWE SmackDown’s special two-hour holiday episode on December 26, 2025, did not disappoint, delivering an action-packed show filled with title changes, new additions, and a healthy dose of nostalgia. In this article, we will break down the three things we hated and three things we loved about the episode.
3 Things We Hated
1. Intercontinental Championship Match Falls Flat
The highly anticipated Intercontinental Championship match between Santos Escobar and the reigning champion, Ricochet, failed to live up to expectations. Despite the high stakes, the match lacked a sense of urgency and momentum, with both competitors struggling to find their footing. The match’s slow pace and lack of clear storytelling made it difficult for the audience to become invested in the outcome.
According to a WWE insider, the match was a victim of the holiday schedule, with many key players being pulled away to attend family gatherings and other obligations. “It was a tough week to get everyone on the same page,” the insider revealed. “The match was always meant to be a secondary focus, but it shows in the product. We’ll have to regroup and reassess for future episodes.”
2. Underutilization of New Talent
The introduction of new faces on the show was a welcome change, but it also led to some underutilization of these fresh additions. The likes of LA Knight and Tommaso Ciampa were given short shrift in terms of screen time and meaningful interactions with other characters. It’s a shame, as both men have great potential and could have added depth to the show.
Sources close to the WWE creative team have acknowledged the issue, stating that they are working to integrate these new talents more effectively into the narrative. “We’re excited to see these guys grow and develop as characters,” a source revealed. “It’s just a matter of finding the right opportunities to showcase them.”
3. Overreliance on Established Franchises
While the established franchises on SmackDown, such as the Bloodline and The Usos, continue to deliver, there’s a risk of relying too heavily on these familiar faces. This can lead to stagnation and a lack of innovation, as the audience becomes fatigued with the same storylines and characters.
According to Cody Rhodes, who has been vocal about the importance of fresh blood and new storylines, “We can’t just rely on what’s worked in the past. We need to take risks and push the boundaries of what’s possible in our universe. That’s what’s going to keep the audience engaged and excited.”
3 Things We Loved
1. Title Change: Theory Becomes the New Universal Champion
The crowning moment of the evening came when Finn Bálor’s protégé, Theory, dethroned Roman Reigns to become the new Universal Champion. This title change was a long time coming, and it was clear that Theory was ready for the challenge. The match itself was a masterclass in storytelling, with Theory using every trick in the book to outmaneuver Reigns and secure the victory.
Theory’s post-match celebration was a highlight of the evening, as he soaked up the adoration of the crowd and basked in the glory of his newfound title. According to sources close to Theory, this moment has been years in the making and is a culmination of his hard work and dedication. “Theory has earned every bit of this title,” a source revealed. “He’s been waiting for this moment for a long time, and it’s going to be a wild ride.”
2. New Faces Shine in Debut Matches
LA Knight made a strong impression in his debut match, showcasing his charisma and agility in a thrilling bout against the likes of Chad Gable. Tommaso Ciampa also made a splash, delivering a gritty and intense performance that left the audience wanting more.
These new faces brought a much-needed injection of energy to the show, and it’s clear that they have the potential to make a lasting impact. According to a WWE talent scout, these guys are “exactly what we need” to shake up the roster and bring some much-needed fresh blood to the table. “We’re excited to see what they can do and how they’ll fit into the bigger picture.”
3. Emotional Moment: The Usos’ Tribute to Jimmy Uso
The evening’s emotional highlight came when The Usos paid tribute to their late brother, Jimmy Uso, in a heartfelt and moving segment. The segment, which featured a series of photos and videos celebrating Jimmy’s life and legacy, brought the audience to their feet and left them in tears.
According to Jey Uso, who has been instrumental in keeping Jimmy’s memory alive, “This was a moment we’ll never forget. We’re so grateful to have had Jimmy as our brother and as a part of this family. He may be gone, but his spirit lives on through us and through the WWE.” The segment was a poignant reminder of the impact that Jimmy Uso had on the WWE universe and the lasting legacy he left behind.
In conclusion, WWE SmackDown’s holiday episode was a mixed bag, with some highs and lows. While there were moments of disappointment, there were also some truly unforgettable moments that will leave a lasting impression on the audience. As the WWE looks to the future, it’s clear that there are exciting times ahead for this talented roster of superstars.