The WWE’s European swing continued on January 9, 2026, as SmackDown rolled into Berlin, Germany, delivering a high-energy episode that left fans eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the WWE’s narrative. In this article, we’ll delve into the key moments from the show, including a thrilling opening segment and several explosive matchups that showcased the best of the WWE roster.
A Snake in the Grass: Randy Orton and Trick Williams Set the Tone
The evening got underway with a familiar face slithering into the ring: Randy Orton. The Viper, accompanied by his protégé Trick Williams, kicked off the show with a bang, setting the tone for an action-packed evening. Orton’s theme music pulsed through the Berlin crowd as he made his way to the ring, his eyes fixed intently on the audience. Williams, donning a confident smirk, stood by Orton’s side, a testament to the young wrestler’s growing influence in the WWE.
In a post-match interview, Trick Williams hinted at a possible showdown between himself and Orton’s long-time rival, Cody Rhodes. “The Viper’s got a new partner in crime, and we’re not just talking about me,” Williams said with a sly grin. “We’re talking about a partnership that’s going to shake things up around here. Cody Rhodes better be ready, because we’re coming for him.”
The Revival Reignites: FTR Challenge The Usos for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship
SmackDown’s tag team division was at the forefront of the evening’s action, as FTR (Cash Wheeler and Dax Harwood) challenged The Usos for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship. The Revival, seeking redemption after a recent string of setbacks, brought their signature intensity to the match, but ultimately came up short against the dominant Usos.
In a post-match interview, Cash Wheeler expressed frustration with the outcome, but vowed to regroup and come back stronger. “We may not have won the titles tonight, but we’re not going anywhere. FTR’s not a team to be underestimated, and we’ll be back, hungrier than ever.”
Intercontinental Championship Ambush: Shinsuke Nakamura Takes Down Butch
In a shocking turn of events, Shinsuke Nakamura capitalized on Butch’s momentary lapse in focus to seize the Intercontinental Championship. The challenger, who had been riding a hot streak in recent weeks, was caught off guard by Nakamura’s cunning tactics and ultimately fell victim to a devastating Kinshasa.
According to a WWE insider, Nakamura’s victory was a result of a deliberate strategy to exploit Butch’s aggressive style and capitalize on his opponent’s mistakes. “Nakamura’s been studying Butch’s tactics for weeks, looking for the perfect moment to strike,” the insider revealed. “Tonight was the night he chose to pounce.”
The Women’s Division Heats Up: Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan Engage in a Thrilling Match
The women’s division took center stage as Raquel Rodriguez and Liv Morgan clashed in a high-flying match that left both competitors battered and bruised. Rodriguez’s incredible strength and power were on full display, but Morgan’s quickness and agility allowed her to stay in the contest, ultimately forcing Rodriguez to submit to a vicious armbar.
In a post-match interview, Liv Morgan hailed Rodriguez as a formidable opponent, but vowed to continue pushing the limits of what’s possible in the women’s division. “Raquel’s a force to be reckoned with, but I’m not intimidated. I’m going to keep pushing, keep grinding, and see where it takes me.”
A Glimpse into the Future: WWE Officials Tease a Potential WrestleMania Match
A cryptic message from WWE officials hinted at a potential match between The Miz and a yet-to-be-determined opponent at WrestleMania. While no official opponent was named, The Miz seemed undaunted by the prospect of facing an unknown foe, boasting about his ability to adapt to any situation.
As the evening drew to a close, the WWE faithful were left with more questions than answers. Will Randy Orton and Trick Williams continue to ride the wave of success, or will Cody Rhodes intervene to derail their plans? Will FTR regroup and mount a successful challenge for the SmackDown Tag Team Championship? And who will step up to face The Miz at WrestleMania?
One thing is certain: the WWE’s European swing has only just begun, and the action is far from over. Stay tuned for more updates from the world of professional wrestling.