Friday’s “SmackDown” looked like a “sign of things to come” episode. In terms of where the feud between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre is headed, the picture for the Undisputed WWE Championship has become clear. The Men’s Tag Team Title match ended in upset. Nia Jax and Lash Legend picked up an important victory that is a possible glimpse into the future of the Women’s Tag Team Title Championships.
“Raw” and “SmackDown” come out 52 times a year, so you’ll definitely get these types of episodes, but this one wasn’t completely devoid of action. If anything, the next week or two will fly under the radar amid the holiday season and long-lasting sunshine. John Cena’s retirement,
December 19th ‘Smackdown’ results
• Nia Jax and Lash Legend def. kabuki warrior
• Giulia defeated. alba fire
• Ilja Dragunov and Carmelo Hayes def. DIY
• The match between MFT and Wyatt Six ended in a no contest.
A flat end between MFT and Wyatt Six
The tag team titles were at stake as MFT challenged the Wyatt Six. All 10 members of both teams continued to brawl outside the ring until the referee rang the bell, ending the match. Although the massacre seemed cool, the outcome of the match was quite flat and resulted in no resolution. I would have loved to see MFT win the title, given the physicality that followed. We may get a rematch or a 10-man tag team match next, but if this feud carries over to WrestleMania, it’s going to need some more ups and downs.
Other takeaways/storylines
• Damian Priest and Aleister Black brawled, indicating that their feud is not over. Will they have one more singles match before moving on, perhaps at the Royal Rumble? Although I like both superstars, I’m not completely banking on these two in a long-term rivalry.
• The Miz plans a match with Joe Hendry on next week’s “SmackDown.” The Miz is a good first opponent for Hendry’s official WWE debut. “I’m confident” in his ability to help The Miz and Hendry realize some of his potential star power.
• Rhodes’ promo in response to “SmackDown” General Manager Nick Aldis going to Drew McIntyre’s house to broker a deal for his return was sentimental at best, but a heel promo at worst. The Rhodes vs. McIntyre feud is unlikely to move beyond the Royal Rumble, although I would love to see both wrestlers have a great WrestleMania match.
