WWE SmackDown Results and Ending Explained (January 3, 2025)

Warning: The following copy contains SPOLIERS for WWE SmackDown (January 3, 2025)

In a groundbreaking shift, WWE has expanded SmackDown to a three-hour format, debuting in Phoenix, AZ, with action-packed encounters that had fans on the edge of their seats. The Main Event featured a thrilling 6-man Tag Team bout with Sami Zayn and The Usos facing off against The Bloodline. Earlier in the evening, Paul Heyman and Solo Sikoa created buzz around their upcoming Tribal Combat match with Roman Reigns, while Drew McIntyre made sure his presence resonated throughout the night.

The stakes were high as DIY defended their Tag Team Championship against challengers Motor City Machine Guns, and Nia Jax faced off against Naomi in a highly charged Women’s Championship bout. Tensions escalated as Michin and Piper Niven continued their rivalry, US Champion Chelsea Green bided her time, and a hard-hitting clash took place between Shinsuke Nakamura and Andrade. Cody Rhodes and Kevin Owens also squared off in an intense feud heading into the Royal Rumble.

WWE SmackDown Results – January 3, 2025

Cody Rhodes kicked off the show, but was quickly interrupted by Drew McIntyre from Raw, who offered support and issued a warning.
After McIntyre’s departure, Kevin Owens attacked Cody from behind, leading to officials stepping in to separate them.
Shinsuke Nakamura secured a win over Andrade El Idolo via pinfall, after which LA Knight challenged Nakamura for the US Championship.
Michin triumphed over Piper Niven with the Eat Defeat move.
Solo Sikoa requested Paul Heyman to manage the Ula Fala during Monday’s upcoming Tribal Combat with Roman Reigns.
Motor City Machine Guns were thwarted in their title match against DIY due to interference from Pretty Deadly and Legado Del Fantasma.
Nia Jax defeated Naomi by pinfall, with an unexpected attack from Tiffany Stratton using her Money In The Bank briefcase.
Tiffany Stratton then capitalized on the chaos, cashing in her Money In The Bank contract to become the new WWE Women’s Champion after hitting the Prettiest Moonsault Ever and benefiting from a KOD from Bianca Belair on Nia.
In the night’s Main Event, Solo Sikoa pinned Jey Uso, giving The Bloodline the victory over Sami Zayn and The Usos.

Cody Rhodes Faces New Challenges

Cody Rhodes WWE Smackdown January 3 2025

Cody Rhodes began SmackDown with a serious demeanor, prepared to confront Kevin Owens, only to be met unexpectedly by Drew McIntyre. The hug from McIntyre felt out of character, especially given their tumultuous history. However, Drew’s intentions seem genuine as he hints at big plans for this year.

Despite McIntyre’s overtures, Rhodes remains skeptical, with Drew warning him to “watch your back.”Shortly thereafter, Kevin Owens blindsided Cody, escalating the tension. There was a backstage confrontation between Jey Uso and Owens, who echoed the same warning. As Jey prepares to face McIntyre in the upcoming Netflix debut of Monday Night Raw, the atmosphere thickens with uncertainty for him.

Shinsuke Nakamura Shines in SmackDown’s Extended Format

Shinsuke Nakamura WWE SmackDown January 3 2025

With the extension of SmackDown, Shinsuke Nakamura’s entrance received ample spotlight, allowing mid-card champions like him to be highlighted. His hard-hitting match against Andrade displayed both competitors’ toughness, leading to Nakamura’s victory via a powerful Kinshasa. Following this, LA Knight made a bold announcement, vowing to reclaim his US Championship.

Paul Heyman’s Critical Role in Tribal Combat

Main Image Solo Score WWE SmackDown January 3 2025

For those unfamiliar with WWE’s storyline developments, Paul Heyman effectively conveyed the significance of Solo Sikoa’s emergence as the new leader of The Bloodline. In a few riveting moments, Heyman illustrated why he is essential to the unfolding narrative. Solo’s commanding presence reassured Roman Reigns of his imminent success, as he requested Heyman to manage the Ula Fala during their upcoming match.

The Buzzing Tag Team Scene on SmackDown

The focus on tag teams continues to pay off in SmackDown’s programming, contributing to the overall excitement. Pretty Deadly found themselves facing consequences for their earlier deceit regarding Legado Del Fantasma, who confronted them along with Apollo Crews. Meanwhile, the chaos unfolded during DIY’s title defense against the Motor City Machine Guns, which led to a controversial no contest, leaving fans clamoring for a resolution. It’s a thrilling time to be a tag team in WWE.

Tiffany Stratton’s Shocking Ascension to the Top

Tiffany Stratton WWE SmackDown January 3 2025

The WWE Women’s Championship clash between Nia Jax and Naomi proved to be a fierce battle, showcasing numerous near falls and impactful maneuvers. After Nia secured the win, chaos erupted when Tiffany Stratton interfered, striking Naomi with her Money In The Bank briefcase.

In a jaw-dropping turn of events, Tiffany captured the WWE Women’s Championship following a flurry of attacks, including a KOD delivered by Bianca Belair. This moment marked an unforgettable swerve, making it a highlight in wrestling history as Tiffany Stratton claimed her rightful place as champion.

The Bloodline Prepares for Monday’s Major Event

Solo Bloodline WWE SmackDown January 3 2025

The crowd erupted as Sami Zayn and The Usos made their entrance, delivering an electric atmosphere reminiscent of the “yes!”movement. However, Solo Sikoa ultimately secured victory for his team, capitalizing on a momentary lapse by Jey Uso regarding the legal man in the match. This significant win sets the stage for Sikoa’s highly anticipated showdown on Monday.

To wrap up, Tiffany Stratton’s dramatic and unexpected ascent to the championship will be talked about for years to come. The return to prominence for former champion Nia Jax and her ensuing rivalry with Bianca Belair and others adds layers to the Women’s division. Meanwhile, the cunning tactics of The Bloodline build intrigue ahead of the Netflix premiere of Monday Night Raw. With Drew McIntyre and Kevin Owens establishing a new narrative and SmackDown’s extra hour promoting the mid-card and tag divisions, this first night of an expanded SmackDown was truly triumphant.

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