SmackDown: Dragunov Champion, Rhodes DQ, Heel? WWE Analysis

The last episode of “SmackDown” presented key moments that set the course in the professional wrestling universe. Despite not reaching the intensity of the previous week, the show left us with a new champion and developing rivalries.

Dragunov Dethrones Zayn and Conquers the United States Championship

Ilja Dragunov, in his return to action, defeated Sami Zayn to become the new United States Champion. Dragunov answered Zayn’s open challenge and offered an electrifying match. Solo Sikoa’s interference distracted Zayn, allowing Dragunov to execute his “Torpedo Moscow” followed by an “H-Bomb” to secure the victory and the championship.

This triumph opens up interesting possibilities, including a potential rivalry between Zayn and Sikoa, as well as the interaction of The MFTs, who attacked Zayn and Dragunov after the match. Zayn, once again, demonstrated his ability to deliver high-quality matches against any opponent, solidifying his status as a versatile competitor.

Cody Rhodes: A New Dark Side?

Cody Rhodes showed a more aggressive side, using the championship as a weapon against Drew McIntyre. This attitude could be an indication of a possible transformation to “heel” by Rhodes.

An impromptu match for the undisputed title, which ended with Rhodes losing by disqualification after hitting McIntyre with his belt, left the audience wondering about Rhodes’ motivations. The rivalry between Rhodes and McIntyre continues to develop, and the situation of Jacob Fatu, who suffered an attack in the backstage that prevented him from competing, adds more intrigue to the plot.

SmackDown Results

• Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss defeated Zaria and Sol Ruca
• Ilja Dragunov defeated Sami Zayn to become the new United States champion
• Motor City Machine Guns defeated Los Garza
• Drew McIntyre defeated Cody Rhodes by disqualification

Blake Monroe was present in the audience observing Sol Ruca, whom she will challenge soon for the NXT Women’s Championship. The tag team match between Ruca and Zaria against Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss was seen as an event that could have had more development.