Get ready for an action-packed recap of WWE SmackDown's January 9th episode! This week's show delivered some thrilling matches and unexpected twists.
The Blue Brand's Big Night
After an exciting return to its three-hour format, WWE SmackDown hosted a massive Three Stages of Hell match. Let's dive into the highlights and grades of each segment.
The Viper's Return
1. Randy Orton, back in action, hit the ring for his first promo since last week's RKO on The Miz. But before he could speak, Trick Williams interrupted, dressed for his match with Rey Fenix. Williams' bold move seemed to challenge Orton's status, suggesting it's time for new talent. The segment ended with Orton's signature RKO, setting up potential feuds with both The Miz and Williams.
Grade: C+
Notable Moments:
- Announcers revealed the final hour would be commercial-free.
- WWE's decibel meter usage for overseas shows sparked curiosity.
- Trick Williams' entrance generated decent crowd heat.
Rey Fenix vs. Trick Williams
2. In their first official match on SmackDown, Williams dominated Fenix. Despite some nice moves from Fenix, Williams' power and precision shone through. The match's pace picked up towards the end, with Williams securing a win via a clever pin attempt.
Result: Williams defeated Fenix
Grade: B-
Observations:
- Williams' tripping maneuver on Fenix was entertaining.
- Fenix's three-point dropkick was impressive.
- Williams' popup uppercut added to the excitement.
Giulia vs. Alexa Bliss
3. The United States Championship was on the line as Giulia defended her title against Alexa Bliss. With Charlotte Flair absent due to illness, Bliss faced an uphill battle. The match started with a striking exchange, leading to Giulia's snap suplex and missile dropkick. Bliss gained momentum post-commercial break, but Giulia's counterattacks kept her on edge. In a surprising twist, Lash Legend interfered, allowing Giulia to hit a Northern Lights suplex for the win.
Result: Giulia defeated Bliss
Grade: B-
Notable Moments:
- Giulia and Kiana James' backstage interview hyped the U.S. title match.
- McIntyre and Damian Priest's backstage confrontation teased future storylines.
- Bliss sold Giulia's stiff knee strike effectively.
MFT vs. Wyatt Sicks
4. In a highly anticipated rematch, MFT faced Wyatt Sicks. The Wyatt Sicks' entrance, with the iconic fireflies, energized the crowd. The match was fast-paced and physical, with a standout performance by Solo Sikoa. In a clever strategy, Sikoa used the lantern to distract Uncle Howdy, allowing Tama Tonga to deliver the finishing blow.
Result: MFT defeated Wyatt Sicks
Grade: B
Observations:
- Nick Aldis booked Jordynne Grace against Alba Fyre.
- Cody Rhodes had a brief encounter with Matt Cardona.
- MFT's face paint adds a unique visual element to their look.
- Joe Gacy's character has immense potential, often underutilized by WWE.
- A singles match between Erick Rowan and Talla Tonga could be a crowd favorite.
Alba Fyre vs. Jordynne Grace
5. Another debut match saw Jordynne Grace face Alba Fyre. Grace dominated early on, hitting powerful moves. Fyre fought back with a kick and a DDT, but Grace's momentum was unstoppable. She secured a quick win with a torture rack bomb. After the match, Jade Cargill confronted Grace, setting up a potential title feud.
Result: Grace defeated Fyre
Grade: C
Notable Moments:
- Carmelo Hayes challenged Ilja Dragunov to an open challenge, but Dragunov declined.
- Oba Femi's video package added intrigue before the match.
- Grace's entrance lacked crowd reaction, a surprising turn.
Carmelo Hayes vs. Shinsuke Nakamura
6. In a highly anticipated U.S. Championship match, Carmelo Hayes defended his title against Shinsuke Nakamura. The match delivered on all fronts, showcasing the talents of both babyfaces. Nakamura focused on Hayes' leg, aiming to neutralize his aerial prowess. Despite Nakamura's efforts, Hayes prevailed, countering the Kinshasa and hitting a diving leg drop for the win.
Result: Hayes defeated Nakamura
Grade: A-
Observations:
- Johnny Gargano attacked Nathan Frazer in a mask, pretending to be Axiom.
- Nakamura's babyface role was enjoyable, but WWE's handling of his heel run was questionable.
- Nakamura's quickness and agility were impressive.
- The dragon screw over the top rope was a brutal move.
- Hayes' springboard DDT is a signature move, executed flawlessly.
And there you have it, folks! WWE SmackDown delivered an exciting night of wrestling. What were your thoughts on the show? Do you agree with the grades and observations? Let's discuss in the comments!
