The action in the ring continues! The recent episode of “SmackDown” was loaded with surprises and strategic moves that define the course towards Survivor Series: War Games. Paul Heyman, with the War Games contract in hand, made it clear to Nick Aldis, the general manager, that he could select any wrestler from the WWE roster, regardless of the brand, to form Team Vision. This apparent flexibility turned out to be the key to the big reveal at the end of the show.
The appearance of Drew McIntyre, who was suspended, sealed his alliance with Heyman and The Vision. Aldis, legally, could not intervene. A highlight of the night was how Heyman convinced Cody Rhodes, current undisputed WWE champion, to give Bronson Reed a title opportunity. However, the match, although promising, took a backseat to the avalanche of events that followed.
“SmackDown” Results
- Jey Uso defeated The Miz.
- Ilja Dragunov retained the United States Championship by defeating Axiom.
- LA Knight defeated Zack Ryder in the “Last Time Is Now” tournament.
- Jade Cargill defeated B-Fab in a non-title match.
- Cody Rhodes retained the Undisputed WWE Championship by disqualification against Bronson Reed.
The match between Rhodes and Reed for the Undisputed WWE Championship felt rushed, both in the build-up of the segment and in its development. The title ultimately took a backseat to the ensuing chaos. The Vision faced the Usos and Rhodes, until McIntyre, suspended the previous week, returned to sow chaos.
It appears that Reed, Bron Breakker, Logan Paul, and McIntyre will form the quartet, with a member yet to be confirmed, while Rhodes, Jimmy and Jey Uso, and CM Punk align on the other side. The next two weeks will reveal the fifth member of each team, setting the stage for the Survivor Series: War Games match. For now, the balance leans towards the villains, as the titles will not be on the line. A significant victory for them could pave the way for future title matches.
Other highlights and storylines
Zack Ryder’s (also known as Matt Cardona) return was notable. His performance against LA Knight in the “Last Time Is Now” tournament was excellent, something expected given his talent and status as a prominent figure in the independent scene. Ryder proved to be in great shape.
Rhea Ripley and Iyo Sky discussed their upcoming match at Survivor Series: War Games, with the subsequent invitation to Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss to the ring. Flair accused Ripley of being a “snake” that cannot be trusted, recalling the past tension between the two. I like that the Flair-Ripley rivalry has been addressed, which could be resolved before the match and that Flair rejoins the team before WAR GAMES.
Tommaso Ciampa did not get a shot at the United States title, apparently for being considered an “idiot” by champion Ilja Dragunov. The situation could extend for a few more weeks, before becoming a filler match on “SmackDown”. Although I wouldn’t mind seeing Ciampa with the United States title, Dragunov is on a great run.
The match between Dragunov and Axiom for the United States Championship was incredible. It demonstrated the success of the open challenge. The United States Championship is now the title for the best technical wrestlers or those with exciting performances.
Sami Zayn, now medically cleared to compete, interrupted his promotion in the ring. This led to a traditional 5-on-5 elimination match on “SmackDown” on November 28, with Rey Fenix, AJ Styles, and the Motor City Machine Guns involved.
Jade Cargill demonstrated her power by defeating B-Fab, showing total destruction, dominance, confidence, and arrogance. This will propel her even further towards stardom.
