Last night’s two-hour special edition of WWE SmackDown marked the end of 2025 and the beginning of a new era in the blue brand. The episode was packed with action, drama, and a title change that left fans buzzing. However, it wasn’t all smooth sailing, as some storylines and matches fell flat. In this article, we’ll delve into the highs and lows of the evening, explore what worked and what didn’t, and peek behind the curtain for some exclusive insights.
3 Things We Hated
1. Lackluster Women’s Tag Team Match
The women’s tag team match featuring Naomi and Shotzi vs. Aliyah and Iliana made for a forgettable start to the evening. The match lacked a clear direction and the competitors struggled to create any real tension. The crowd was lukewarm, and the bout seemed like an afterthought amidst a packed show. As one WWE insider noted, “The women’s division has been crying out for a push, but matches like this one only serve to remind us that they’re still stuck in neutral.”
2. Underwhelming Match from The New Day
Kofi Kingston and Xavier Woods of The New Day took on The Usos in a high-profile match, but it failed to live up to expectations. The Usos’ dominance was clear from the start, and The New Day’s signature chemistry was noticeably absent. This match left fans wondering if The New Day is finally losing steam. As a WWE insider revealed, “It’s no secret that The New Day has been struggling to find its footing lately. Last night’s match only highlighted the cracks in their foundation.”
3. Forgotten Feud
The long-awaited return of Dolph Ziggler was overshadowed by a lackluster feud with his opponent, Jinder Mahal. The match itself was well-executed, but the overall story surrounding the two superstars felt forced and unconvincing. It’s clear that Ziggler is still a fan favorite, but the WWE’s inability to craft a compelling narrative for his character is a missed opportunity. According to a source close to Ziggler, “Dolph feels like he’s been stuck in limbo for months, and last night’s match was just another reminder that the WWE doesn’t know what to do with him.”
3 Things We Loved
1. Title Change in the Main Event
The main event saw Roman Reigns successfully defend his Universal Championship against Cody Rhodes in an epic showdown. After weeks of buildup, the two superstars delivered a match for the ages, with a thrilling combination of high-flying moves and intense brawling. The title change came as a surprise to many, but it was a welcome twist that added a new layer of complexity to the blue brand’s hierarchy. As a WWE insider revealed, “The decision to put the title on Cody Rhodes was a bold move, but it sets up some exciting possibilities for the new year.”
2. Debut of The Acclaimed
The Acclaimed, a new tag team consisting of Anthony Bowens and Max Caster, made their WWE debut in a thrilling match against Cesaro and The Miz. The team’s high-energy performance and undeniable chemistry won over the crowd, and their signature entrance and music added a much-needed shot of adrenaline to the show. According to a source close to the team, “The Acclaimed have been working tirelessly behind the scenes, and their debut was the perfect way to showcase their talents.”
3. Emotional Tribute to Ric Flair
The evening’s opening segment featured a heartfelt tribute to the legendary Ric Flair, who passed away earlier this year. The heartfelt message from the WWE Superstars, including a stirring speech from Ric Flair’s son, David, was a poignant reminder of the impact Flair had on the sport. The tribute served as a fitting tribute to the 16-time world champion and cemented his legacy as one of the greatest of all time.
A Glimpse into the Future
As the curtains closed on 2025, WWE SmackDown left fans with a lot to look forward to in the new year. With a new title holder and a fresh crop of talent, the blue brand is poised for a thrilling 2026. As a WWE insider noted, “The WWE’s new approach to storytelling and character development is finally starting to bear fruit. We’re in for a wild ride, and I have a feeling that this is just the beginning.”
The stage is set for a new era in WWE, and with a talented roster and a renewed focus on storytelling, the possibilities are endless. Will Cody Rhodes be able to defend his title against all comers, or will Roman Reigns reclaim the championship? One thing is for sure: the WWE universe is in for a treat.