The WWE SmackDown prior to Independence Day delivered an action-packed episode with intense matches, surprising twists, and a glimpse into the upcoming SummerSlam. In this review, we’ll delve into the highs and lows of the show, exploring what worked and what didn’t.
3 Things We Hated
- Underutilization of Edge
Edge, a WWE Hall of Famer and a fan favorite, has been absent from the scene for a while. His return was highly anticipated, but unfortunately, it felt like a wasted opportunity. He made a brief appearance during the main event, helping Roman Reigns retain his Universal Championship against the challenger, Finn Bálor. Edge’s involvement was minimal, and his presence felt like a mere afterthought. It’s unclear why WWE didn’t give him more screen time or a more substantial role.
- Disappointing Women’s Match
The women’s match between Sasha Banks and Rhea Ripley failed to deliver. The bout was supposed to be a high-stakes contest for the number one contender spot, but it lacked energy and momentum. Both competitors seemed disconnected, and the crowd’s reaction was lukewarm at best. The match’s outcome, which saw Ripley emerge victorious, felt predictable and lacked any real tension.
- Inconsistent Booking
The booking on SmackDown has been inconsistent lately, and this episode was no exception. The show jumped between different storylines and matches without any clear direction or purpose. The storyline between Roman Reigns and Finn Bálor, which has been building for weeks, was overshadowed by a random appearance by the New Day, who seemingly had no business being involved in the main event. This lack of focus and direction made it difficult for viewers to invest in the show.
3 Things We Loved
- Roman Reigns vs. Finn Bálor: A Thrilling Main Event
The main event of the evening, a match for the Universal Championship between Roman Reigns and Finn Bálor, was an absolute thrill ride. Bálor put on a showstopping performance, with multiple near-falls and a breathtaking display of aerial attacks. Reigns, however, proved to be the more dominant force, using his cunning and experience to retain his title. The match was a masterclass in storytelling, with each competitor playing their part perfectly.
- The Usos’ Dominance
The Usos, Jimmy and Jey Uso, had a strong showing on the show, defeating the team of AJ Styles and Omos in a high-energy match. The brothers’ chemistry and timing were on point, with their signature moves and finishing sequences looking smoother than ever. The Usos’ victory was a testament to their growth as a team and their increased relevance in the WWE hierarchy.
- Drew McIntyre’s Vengeful Pursuit
Drew McIntyre’s pursuit of revenge against the New Day continued on SmackDown, with a scathing promo that left no doubt about his intentions. McIntyre’s character has been on a downward spiral for weeks, and this promo was a stark reminder of his desperation and frustration. His eventual confrontation with the New Day, which saw him being attacked by Xavier Woods and Kofi Kingston, set the stage for a potential showdown at SummerSlam.
Backstage Quote
“Roman Reigns is a dominant force in the WWE, and he’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Finn Bálor, on the other hand, is a talented competitor who deserves a push. I’m not sure what happened to Sasha Banks today, but I hope she gets her act together soon. The WWE needs her to be at her best.”
— Dave Meltzer, Wrestling Observer
Fan Reaction Analysis
The fan reaction to the show was largely mixed, with some viewers expressing disappointment with the underutilization of Edge and the disappointing women’s match. Others praised the main event and the Usos’ victory, as well as Drew McIntyre’s vengeful promo. On social media, fans were divided, with some calling for the WWE to give Edge more screen time and others praising the show’s unpredictability.
Future WWE Implications
The upcoming SummerSlam will be a pivotal event for the WWE, with several storylines converging in the lead-up to the show. The Roman Reigns vs. Finn Bálor rivalry is expected to continue, with both competitors looking to gain an advantage heading into the summer’s biggest event. The Usos’ victory on SmackDown could lead to a potential tag team championship match at SummerSlam, while Drew McIntyre’s pursuit of revenge against the New Day may come to a head in a intense showdown.
Conclusion
The WWE SmackDown prior to Independence Day was a mixed bag, with some standout performances and others that fell flat. While the main event and the Usos’ victory were highlights of the show, the underutilization of Edge and the disappointing women’s match were notable low points. As the WWE heads into the summer, one thing is clear: the coming weeks and months will be filled with high-stakes matches and intense rivalries.
FAQ Section
Q: What was the main event of the WWE SmackDown episode?
A: The main event was a match for the Universal Championship between Roman Reigns and Finn Bálor.
Q: Who won the women’s match between Sasha Banks and Rhea Ripley?
A: Rhea Ripley emerged victorious in the match.
Q: What was the outcome of the Usos’ match against AJ Styles and Omos?
A: The Usos defeated AJ Styles and Omos in a high-energy match.
Q: What is the current status of Drew McIntyre’s feud with the New Day?
A: Drew McIntyre’s pursuit of revenge against the New Day continues, with a potential showdown at SummerSlam looming.