WWE is ending 2024 on a high note, highlighted by SmackDown’s second show captured at the XL Center in Hartford, CT. The narrative is intensifying as Drew McIntyre approaches an alliance with The Bloodline to confront The OG Bloodline and Roman Reigns. In a thrilling matchup, Solo, Jacob Fatu, and Tama Tonga triumphed over LA Knight, Andrade, and Apollo Crews, aided by Shinsuke Nakamura, the United States Champion. Furthermore, Alex Shelley faced a setback against Johnny Gargano, continuing DIY’s resurgence.
Carmelo Hayes had a standout week, defeating Braun Strowman and delivering a backstage assault with a steel chair following a previous loss to him. In the evening’s Main Event, Bianca Belair and Naomi successfully defended their Women’s Tag Team Championship against rivals Nia Jax and Candice LeRae. Though Tiffany Stratton observed with her Money In The Bank briefcase, she has yet to make her cash-in.
Highlights from SmackDown
1
Drew McIntyre and Solo’s Bloodline
An Unholy Union Beckons to Start 2025
As we approach a new year and shift towards a fresh era in WWE, the prospect of new alliances arises. Drew McIntyre made headlines by interrupting Solo Sikoa, even amidst Rike’s build-up to a Tribal Combat match against Roman Reigns, hinting at a potential alliance.
“I’m gonna make this quick because it makes me physically sick to be this close to you, and not beat you within an inch of your life,”Drew McIntyre declared towards Solo Sikoa. Although 2024 has been positive for The Scottish Warrior, chatter about his significant role in WWE throughout 2025 is surfacing. McIntyre’s steadfast determination to dismantle the OG Bloodline has been noted, positioning him as a credible force despite Jimmy Uso’s attempt to intervene.
Watch the segment here
2
Naomi
Jade Cargill’s Absence Has Everyone Feeling The Glow
In the Main Event, Bianca Belair and Naomi defended their Women’s Tag Team Championship against Nia Jax and Candice LeRae. Jax’s decision to distance herself from Tiffany Stratton has opened a new narrative at the expense of faction unity. Stratton’s distraction led to the loss, hinting at deeper storylines to unfold soon.
Catch the match highlights here
Notably, speculation arises surrounding Naomi’s potential involvement in Jade Cargill’s recent injury, as her opportunistic behavior raises eyebrows. The relationship between Belair and Naomi appears to be a partnership of necessity, sparking intrigue about future developments.
3
Jacob Fatu
In Praise Of One Of WWE’s Best Performers
Although known as Solo’s Bloodline, Jacob Fatu has established himself as a standout since joining WWE. Audiences unfamiliar with The Samoan Werewolf are now witnessing his intense matches alongside talents like Andrade and LA Knight. His high-energy performance is captivating.
View Jacob Fatu in action
Fatu’s remarkable skill was showcased when he clinched the victory after delivering a fierce Samoan Spike. Despite being overshadowed by Nakamura’s interference, Fatu’s prowess signals his rising status in WWE. Anticipations for his championship reign loom large in 2025.
4
Carmelo Hayes
A Big Performance On An Important Week For Melo
Carmelo Hayes, after a rocky start to the week, swiftly regained momentum by defeating Braun Strowman. Following Strowman’s previous antics on The Grayson Waller Experience, Hayes took matters into his own hands, seizing the moment to reclaim his narrative.
Watch Carmelo in action
Losing no time, Hayes sought a rematch, achieving victory by count-out, but his ambitions soared higher. In a dramatic turn, he ambushed Strowman with a steel chair, showcasing his tenacity and paving the way for a promising 2025.
5
Kevin Owens
Another Week, Another Firestorm From KO
Continuously captivating audiences with his fervor, Kevin Owens asserts himself as WWE’s most dangerous competitor. Following his brutal assault on Cody Rhodes, Owens issued a chilling statement while holding the Winged Eagle Championship, reminiscent of classic ECW promos.
See Owens’ latest promo
Owens’ fierce words further solidify his presence as WWE’s premier villain, illustrating his impressive prowess in the ring. His positioning hints that while Cody Rhodes bravely guides WWE’s future, Owens stands ready as the perfect antagonist.
“It can all get so much worse. You don’t want me to snap. What happens next is on all of you,”Owens warned ominously.
Looking Ahead: Key Observations
- This storyline seems to indicate a potential comeback for the Winged Eagle Championship.
- Drew McIntyre and Solo Sikoa previously faced off in a no-contest draw on September 9th, 2022.
- 2025 should mark the end of the persistent “what”chant—it’s time for a fresh start.
- The new Raw logo impresses, but the promo video overload detracted from its impact.
- Johnny Gargano’s victory over Kevin Owens is a reminder of his formidable legacy since 2010.
- Kevin Owens’ playful wink at the end of his vignettes is a highlight.
- The upcoming “Pretty Deadly: The Musical”promises to outshine Broadway classics.
- Carmelo Hayes’s mic skills are on the rise, and his declaration of “you can’t humble greatness”is a true star moment.
- Belair and Naomi’s tag team debut is a step toward exciting new dynamics.
- Expect Tiffany Stratton’s game-changing moment on January 6th.
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