3 Talking Points From Tonight’s Episode Of WWE Smackdown
WWE SmackDown once again thrilled fans with a jam-packed episode full of dramatic moments and high-octane action. From Randy Orton’s amusing fine-paying antics to CM Punk’s intense return promo, the latest edition of the show gave the audience plenty to buzz about. However, the increased involvement of Zelina Vega and Michin in the women’s division feud stole the spotlight as a standout talking point. Kicking off the night, Randy Orton had an entertaining run-in with Nick Aldis following Orton’s RKO on Aldis in a previous episode. In an unexpected move, Orton presented Aldis with a check compensating twice the amount of the fine imposed on Orton for his actions. This cheekily signaled Orton’s willingness to repeat the RKO on Aldis, playing into Orton’s current character as an aging yet utterly unapologetic wrestler who fully embraces his unpredictable tendencies. Orton’s lovable rogue persona has struck a chord with fans, injecting his veteran presence with a renewed sense of mischievous charm. Shifting gears, CM Punk cut a scathing return promo that set social media ablaze. After weathering criticism for a lacklustre appearance last week on Raw, Punk bounced back with a barrage of teases targeting Roman Reigns, Solo Sikoa, Kevin Owens and Seth Rollins. Cleverly sidestepping mentioning Rollins directly and instead poking fun at Rollins’ “whiny voice,” Punk hinted at plans to enter the upcoming Royal Rumble to gun for the WrestleMania main event spot. His backstage interactions with Owens and Cody Rhodes reinforced Punk’s quest to reestablish himself as a central figure in WWE programming. From calling out Reigns on running SmackDown through his Bloodline cronies to challenging newcomer Sikoa to be more than just “Honorary Uce,” Punk reaffirmed his masterful abilities on the mic, backed by an audience loudly voicing their support. Yet the most meaningful development came through Zelina Vega and Michin’s expanded role in the Team Bianca versus Damage CTRL feud. Vega and Michin made history by emerging as forces unto themselves in the women’s division, rather than accessory managers for male counterparts. By siding with Bianca Belair and Shotzi against the reigning women’s tag champs Dakota Kai and Iyo Sky, Vega and Michin underscored their determination to compete at the same elite level as their female wrestling peers. This represents a progressive shift for women’s wrestling in WWE, paving the way for managers like Vega and Michin to transcend their traditional secondary statuses. The audience can now view Vega and Michin as legitimate in-ring threats while adding depth to the Team Bianca and Damage CTRL rivalry. And Vega’s glamorous pink outfit dazzled fans, amplifying the flair for fashion embodied by WWE’s women’s roster. Delving deeper into Orton’s lighthearted interactions with Aldis, The Viper’s veteran poise shined through in playing up the attack for additional laughs. Orton clearly understands his character’s appeal stems from unpredictable, violent outbursts, even when unjustified. His willingness to cut a check purely to convey random RKOs will always be part of the deal gave Orton’s persona a refreshing new dimensionality. The normally stoic and cold-blooded Orton displayed his funny bone, while also teasing the audience with the looming threat of another sudden RKO on Aldis. Orton continues straddling that line between chaotic neutral and chaotic evil exceptionally well at this later stage of his career. Likewise, CM Punk’s scorched earth verbal assault reestablished his focal place on WWE programming after last week’s promotional misfire. Punk riffed on familiar targets like Reigns, Rollins and even the fanbase itself, while introducing new rivalries against breakout Bloodline enforcer Solo Sikoa and recent main event fixture Kevin Owens. Despite holding no official championship, Punk made his case for being the singular must-see WWE talent week in and week out. His directness in addressing valid complaints about his recent Triple H-helmed WWE run being all talk displayed a self-awareness that will resonate with the WWE Universe. Punk carries himself like the lead antihero swimming in an ocean of floundering babyfaces and heavily pushed yet bland heels. His return promo perfectly distilled that exceptional, outspoken arrogance setting Punk miles apart from the pack. Rounding out the show, forwarding Vega and Michin to key player status represents WWE’s most overt commitment to strengthening its women’s division booking in quite some time. The Manager role in WWE has skewed glaringly male-dominated historically, with female managers portrayed as eye candy valets lacking in-ring ability or serious character motivations. Yet Vega and Michin have broken that glass ceiling. Their involvement in the Team Bianca and Damage CTRL story now comes from a position of power rather than playing second fiddle to a male Superstar. Vega and Michin add fresh dimensional to WWE’s women’s division landscape while expanding possibilities for future compelling conflicts. If WWE continues spotlighting female managers as fully realized competitors akin to their male manager counterparts, the entire women’s roster will greatly benefit moving forward. With Slammy Awards season fast approaching and the Royal Rumble nearing on the horizon, tonight’s SmackDown delivered pivotal character moments that will shape WWE programming this month and beyond. Randy Orton seems primed to channel his unpredictable machismo into more comedic mayhem. Meanwhile, CM Punk’s laser-focused intensity solidified his status as the rebel antihero fans love to hate (and vice versa). Yet Zelina Vega and Michin’s defiant display arguably stole the show in setting a progressive tone for the continued evolution of WWE’s women’s division. With all three talking points carrying intriguing implications, tonight’s SmackDown once again showcased why this flagship brand remains appointment television for millions of WWE fans worldwide.
5 Former WWE Champions Who Can Win Their Maiden Royal Rumble 2024
Every January, WWE programming builds towards sports entertainment’s most chaotic and unpredictable spectacle – the 30-superstar over-the-top-rope Royal Rumble match. Since its inception in 1988, the revolutionary battle royal has shaped WWE history by catapulting winners like “Stone Cold” Steve Austin and John Cena to WrestleMania main events. After 35 years of shocking moments and underdog stories, Tampa Bay crowds will witness the 2024 edition, where past champions vie for career resurgence. In 2023, a familiar scene unfolded – the deafening eruption of Tampa Bay fans as countdown clock expired for entrant #30 – only for Cody Rhodes to emerge and claim Rumble victory. Despite returning from a devastating torn pectoral months earlier, Rhodes went bell-to-bell outworking 29 fellow superstars. His storybook comeback exemplified the match’s magical unpredictability – where anyone can achieve glory. In 2024, Rhode’s monumental homecoming frames the perfect backdrop for other redemption-seekers. Leading the pack is Chicago’s favorite son, CM Punk, whose triumphant AEW arrival in 2021 fast unraveled backstage. No matter where Punk travels, chaos follows – but so do ticket sales and television ratings. If Punk patches things up with WWE, the Royal Rumble stage allows him to thrill fans worldwide just like Cody did last year. After years removed from WWE’s spotlight, could Punk mimic Rhodes’ magic at nearly the same age? Speaking of redemption, 16-time champion John Cena stunned Royal Rumble crowds in 2008 – returning months early from injury to claim his first Rumble victory. In similar position lies AJ Styles after The Bloodline’s merciless attack sidelined The Phenomenal One indefinitely. But if Cena taught wrestling anything, it’s to never underestimate the heart of a champion. A Royal Rumble return would put WWE on notice and set Styles back on a collision course with Universal Champion Roman Reigns. Could we witness shades of Cena’s glory in AJ’s comeback story 14 years later? While Punk seeks applause and AJ targets retribution, former allies now turned enemies clash as Kevin Owens brings the fight against Sami Zayn’s conspiracy movement. In December 2014, Owens shockingly betrayed real-life best friend Zayn to capture NXT gold. Nine years later, another Royal Rumble in Florida marks opportunity to turn back time. Owens is renowned for giving and taking a beating to get results when it matters most. If the Prizefighter’s resilience wrestles victory over Zayn’s stable, we’ll revisit where their blood feud began. Elsewhere Kofi Kingston looks to defy odds, not gravity, for a change. For over a decade, Kingston escaped Royal Rumble elimination by walking on his hands or leaping onto the barricade. In 2024, the power of positivity must lift Kingston to victory. His experience and endurance evidence enough weapons in his arsenal to outwork even the toughest foes. Can Kingston shift from his specialty of stealing shows to winning the headliner? Lastly the veteran Miz enters obsessed with furthering his legacy. Across 15 Royal Rumble appearances, The Miz built a Rolodex of dirty tricks aimed at shortcutting success. But the brighter lights of WrestleMania keep eluding WWE’s most must-see superstar. Expect Miz to pull out all the stops and then some to scratch and crawl his way toExtended assault just might allow one A-lister to reach the mountaintop of WWE. Come January 28, 2024, the pageantry and prominence of the Royal Rumble converge at Tropicana Field where fighting spirit and fearlessness are rewarded. Punk seeks adoration, Styles chases redemption, Kingston aims to defy odds, Owens yearns to turn back time, and Miz obsesses over his legacy. On that one night, the stars align in Tampa Bay for new legends to emerge while past champions resurrect their elite statuses.
WWE Smackdown Result And Report For 08 December 2023: Highlight, Match Ratings, Winners And Losers
The excitement at WWE SmackDown is palpable as it kicks off with a rousing “USA” chant, honoring the Tribute to the Troops episode. The atmosphere is electric, filled with patriotism and anticipation. The War and Treaty’s rendition of “God Bless America” elevates the spirit of the event, setting the tone for an unforgettable night. In a thrilling United States Championship Tournament match, Santos Escobar faces off against Dragon Lee. Before the action begins, Dominik Mysterio makes a surprise appearance, walking down to the ring, adding another layer of drama to the already high-stakes match. As the bell rings, the crowd is on its feet, eagerly watching the two wrestlers lock horns. Dragon Lee starts off strong, clotheslining Escobar out of the ring. However, Escobar lands on his feet, showcasing his agility. Escobar re-enters the ring only to be met with a hurricanrana by Dragon Lee, sending him tumbling outside again. Dragon Lee seizes the moment, executing a stunning flying senton over the top rope onto Escobar. Back in the ring, Dragon Lee keeps up the pressure with a series of kicks and a superkick. He nearly secures a win, but Escobar resiliently kicks out. Escobar fights back, delivering a neck breaker, but Dragon Lee’s determination shines through as he too kicks out of a pin attempt. The match intensifies with both wrestlers exchanging powerful moves. Dragon Lee’s snap German suplex and running knee strike are countered by Escobar’s superkick and Phantom Driver attempts. Each time, the opponent narrowly escapes defeat, heightening the tension in the arena. The climax comes as Escobar finally lands the Phantom Driver on Dragon Lee, securing a hard-fought victory. Post-match, Dominik Mysterio’s actions add a shocking twist. He confronts the defeated Dragon Lee, spitting on him before exiting the ring, leaving the audience in awe of the unfolding drama. Meanwhile, last week’s events are revisited with clips of Randy Orton signing his SmackDown contract, adding another layer to the night’s narrative. In a surprising turn, Randy Orton is seen with Nick Aldis, discussing team dynamics and financial matters, hinting at future confrontations and alliances. Orton’s bold gesture of presenting a check twice the amount of his fine speaks volumes about his character and intentions. The lights then dim, signaling another major moment. The crowd erupts as Cody Rhodes makes his grand entrance, the statement “Wrestling has more than one royal family” echoing through the arena, promising more action and intrigue as the night continues. Cody Rhodes stands proudly in the center of the WWE SmackDown ring, engaging the crowd with a heartfelt speech. He highlights the significance of tonight, not just as a SmackDown event but also as WWE’s Tribute to the Troops. Expressing his pride in being part of this tradition, Cody extends gratitude to everyone present and those watching at home. His words resonate deeply with the audience, stirring a sense of national pride. As he points to the titan tron, a visual history of the Tribute to the Troops events unfolds, reminding everyone of WWE’s longstanding support for the troops. The arena then fills with a resounding “USA” chant, echoing the patriotic spirit of the night. Cody, addressing as the American Nightmare, acknowledges the sacrifices made by service members, asserting that their efforts allow the American Dream to flourish worldwide. In a touching tribute, he introduces the US Army Drill Team from Fort Myers, Virginia. Three soldiers march onto the ramp, saluting the crowd, a moment that captures the essence of the evening’s respect and appreciation for the military. Adding to the night’s excitement, Brad Nessler of CBS Sports joins the announce team. He speaks highly of the Tribute to the Troops, calling it fantastic and echoing the sentiments of those in attendance. The United States Championship Tournament brings another level of exhilaration with Bobby Lashley facing Karrion Kross, accompanied by Scarlett. The match begins with intensity as Kross unleashes right hand, but Lashley quickly counters with an elbow strike. Lashley attempts the Hurt Lock, but Kross skillfully evades. The battle spills outside the ring, with both competitors showcasing their strength and agility. Kross’s attempt at domination is met with Lashley’s resilience. Lashley’s impressive clotheslines and a powerful swinging neckbreaker demonstrate his prowess. The crowd chants in support of Lashley, fueling his momentum. Kross fights back, landing a knee in Lashley’s face, but Lashley’s determination is unyielding. In a climactic moment, Lashley delivers a devastating spear to Kross, leading to a triumphant pin and victory. Winner: Bobby Lashley, a testament to his skill and strength in the ring. The WWE SmackDown arena buzzes with excitement as a recap of last week’s match between Bianca Belair and Kairi Sane is shown, with Belair emerging victorious. The focus then shifts back to the present, where Damage CTRL is seen in the arena. Bayley joins them, expressing her desire to apologize for her actions last week. She volunteers to stay in the back during tonight’s match, suggesting it might be beneficial for the whole group. Despite Bayley’s offer, Dakota insists that while Bayley should stay back, Damage CTRL will go to ringside. This leaves Bayley standing alone, contemplating the situation. The atmosphere intensifies as CM Punk’s music hits and he makes his entrance, wearing a “Hell froze over” t-shirt. The crowd erupts into a loud “CM Punk” chant, and he soaks in the adoration, standing in the ring and looking out at the fans. Punk addresses the crowd, sharing his relief at not being at the end of the show and encouraging the fans to chant his name. The crowd obliges, reigniting their chants with enthusiasm. Punk then touches on Adam Pearce’s efforts to sign him to Raw, which is met with boos from the fans. He playfully suggests that the reaction was louder on Raw, before posing the critical question of where he should sign. He asks the audience if they want him on Raw, receiving boos, or SmackDown, which is met with cheers. Punk then teases the idea of winning the Royal Rumble
WWE NXT Deadline 2023: All Spoilers, Rumors, Confirmed Matches, Live Streaming And More
WWE NXT Deadline 2023 is set to be an explosive night this Saturday, December 9th, emanating live from the Total Mortgage Arena in Bridgeport, Connecticut. The up-and-coming NXT superstars will battle it out in high-stakes matches, with championships, pride, and momentum all on the line. In the main event, bitter rivals Lexis King and Carmelo Hayes will finally settle their score one-on-one in the ring. Ever since arriving in NXT, the outspoken King has made waves by calling out the top stars and questioning their success. This included Hayes, the current NXT North American Champion, who King controversially accused of being involved in an attack on Hayes’ ally Trick Williams. With accusations flying and tensions at an all-time high, Hayes will be laser-focused on shutting up the brash newcomer in this first-time-ever showdown. This is sure to be an intense wrestling clinic between two of NXT’s most talented young competitors. The night will also feature a violent Steel Cage Match between Roxanne Perez and Kiana James, who have been feuding for weeks. Their rivalry reached new heights when James cost Perez her spot in the Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge qualifier match. Perez returned the favor soon after, eliminating James from contention as well. With so much bad blood between them, the only way to contain these vengeful competitors is within the unforgiving steel confines of a cage. Expect an all-out war as these women unleash fury on each other unlike ever before. In another high-stakes title match, “Dirty” Dominik Mysterio will defend his NXT North American Championship against Dragon Lee. The exciting luchador stepped in on late notice after an injury forced Wes Lee to bow out of the match. As the son of the legendary Rey Mysterio, Dominik has already shown he can hang with the very best. But the quickness and aerial abilities of Dragon Lee present a difficult challenge. With the prestigious North American title on the line, both men will be pulling out all the stops to walk out the new champion. Additional matches are likely to be added to the card in the final hours leading up to showtime. NXT Deadline historically has included surprise bouts featuring NXT’s best and brightest. Given the amount of rising talent waiting in the wings, some breakthrough performances could be on tap. Not only will NXT Deadline 2023 feature hard-hitting action from bell to bell, but the landscape of NXT could look very different by the time the night is over. With championship gold, personal pride, and momentum all up for grabs, the stakes have never been higher. Every competitor will be laying it all on the line in hopes of scoring a career-defining victory. The star-studded event this Saturday will also feature the high-stakes Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge, with five of NXT’s top competitors battling for a future title opportunity. Qualifying for the match is no easy feat, as only the most dominant contenders earn a spot in this unique matchup. The field is set with brute force Dijak, the cunning Trick Williams, powerhouse Josh Briggs, NXT Champion Bron Breakker, and technical master Tyler Bate all confirmed to collide. With randomly drawing entry spots and staggered timing, unpredictability is built right into the format. Two men start the match while the remaining three are locked in shark cages. Every five minutes, another wrestler enters according to the order they drew. This forces opponents to constantly shift strategies and alliances as the numbers increase. The match can only end when one man scores two pinfall or submission victories over different opponents. With NXT’s hungriest vying for the same prize, the Men’s Iron Survivor Challenge is sure to be complete chaos this Saturday night. The women of NXT will also wage war, with five fierce female competitors confirmed for the Women’s Iron Survivor Challenge. Former NXT Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton leads the way, along with outspoken Lash Legend, dangerous Blair Davenport, high-flyer Kelani Jordan, and the gritty Fallon Henley. Much like the men’s match, the advantage will swing back and forth as wrestlers enter at intervals. Creative offense, opportunistic timing, and the will to endure will determine who outlasts this melee. With a title shot at stake, the women have everything to fight for. In another high-profile title bout, monstrous NXT Champion Ilja Dragunov will defend his gold against the persistent veteran Baron Corbin. Ever since his return to NXT, Corbin has unleashed a relentless offense on Dragunov in hopes of capturing the promotion’s top prize. The hostile challenger believes he’s NXT’s toughest and most dangerous. Now he’ll get his chance to prove it against The Mad Russian Dragon himself. Dragunov has slayed some of the best to cement his place atop the NXT mountain. He feeds off the energy of the NXT Universe and channels it into his intense, hard-hitting style. But Corbin may be his greatest challenge yet. With contrasting styles, attitudes, and motivations, fireworks are inevitable when these two collide with it all on the line. Be sure to tune into the WWE Network internationally or stream the event live on Peacock in the United States this Saturday night at 8 PM ET. The future stars of WWE will be battling for glory at NXT Deadline 2023! You won’t want to miss what is sure to be an incredible night of dramatic pro wrestling entertainment.
AEW Rampage Preview And Prediction: When And Where To Watch In USA & India – 08th December 2023
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) is set to deliver another action-packed episode of AEW Rampage tonight from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Canada. This will be the promotion’s first show back in Montreal since making their debut in the city earlier this week with AEW Dynamite and AEW Collision. The show promises some hard-hitting professional wrestling action, including a high-stakes match in the AEW Continental Classic tournament featuring Bryan Danielson. Danielson has some ground to make up in the standings and has his work cut out for him against a game opponent in Daniel Garcia. Meanwhile, The Don Callis Family faction continues their quest for domination as Powerhouse Hobbs and Konosuke Takeshita team up to battle former ROH World Tag Team Champions Christopher Daniels and Matt Sydal. What chaos will this group unleash next? Rounding out the card will be an intriguing women’s matchup pitting Abadon against ROH’s Trish Adora. We’ll also see appearances from fan favorites Orange Cassidy and Danhausen promises some humor and fun amidst the intense in-ring battles. When and Where to Watch AEW Rampage in the USA and India: AEW Rampage airs every Friday night on TNT in the United States, with the pre-show starting at 10PM ET and the main show kicking off at 10:30PM ET. The show runs for one hour, wrapping up around 11:30PM ET. Fans in India can tune in to the Eurosport channel on Saturday mornings at 6:30AM IST to catch AEW Rampage. Eurosport provides live telecasts of AEW’s weekly shows. AEW Rampage Preview and Predictions: As mentioned earlier, the marquee match on AEW Rampage this week will see Bryan Danielson continuing his AEW Continental Classic tournament run. Danielson has one win under his belt so far but suffered an orbital bone fracture that sidelined him for several weeks. Now cleared for in-ring action, a fired-up Danielson is taking on two tournament matches this week to make up ground. His opponent tonight will be Daniel Garcia, who sits in a precarious position. Garcia has already competed twice in Continental Classic tournament action. A third loss would mathematically eliminate him from possibly qualifying for the finals. These high stakes should make for an intense encounter between the two stellar grapplers. Look for Danielson to have a chip on his shoulder as he tries to make a statement following his injury. However, Garcia is extremely cunning and won’t go down easy. This one can go either way, but a prediction is Bryan Danielson to notch a hard-fought victory over Garcia via submission. In tag team action, the makeshift duo of Powerhouse Hobbs and Konosuke Takeshita will battle longtime partners Christopher Daniels and Matt Sydal. The Don Callis Family has been a disruptive force in AEW, using their numbers advantage to overwhelm opponents. Hobbs brings the power while Takeshita supplies aerial abilities and high-flying offense. They could prove to be too much for Daniels and Sydal to overcome. Look for Hobbs and Takeshita to use dirty tactics if needed to get the win. Rounding out the card, Abadon will bring her terrifying persona against the tough-as-nails Trish Adora. This one likely won’t be pretty. Expect Abadon to inflict punishment en route to a dominant victory. Orange Cassidy and Danhausen will also appear, providing some comedic moments for the fans. But their allies Best Friends may need to watch their backs with The Don Callis Family running amok lately. Be sure to tune in to AEW Rampage tonight for hard hits, high flying action, and unpredictable entertainment. With Bryan Danielson’s tournament aspirations on the line and The Don Callis Family wrecking havoc, it promises to be a can’t-miss show!
WWE SmackDown Preview And Prediction: When And Where To Watch In USA & India – 08th December 2023
The December 08, 2023 episode of Friday Night SmackDown will be airing live from the Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island, United States. This is the annual Tribute to the Troops episode where WWE pays honor to the U.S. military service members. WWE has announced some exciting matchups for this Friday’s show. The headline events include the start of the United States Championship tournament, the return of CM Punk after nearly a decade, and a tag team main event pitting Randy Orton and LA Knight against Jimmy and Jey Uso. United States Championship Tournament Begins: As announced last week by United States Champion Logan Paul, a tournament will kick off to determine a new number one contender for Paul’s title. The first match in the opening round will see Santos Escobar take on Dragon Lee. Escobar and Lee have a history of facing each other before. At WWE’s Survivor Series event last month, Escobar came out victorious. Then just last week, the rivalry continued between the two on SmackDown. Many expect Escobar to win on Friday and advance in the tournament based on his recent dominance. The second tournament match announced will feature former WWE Champion Bobby Lashley battling Karrion Kross. This marks Kross’ return after over two months away. Lashley has been on a roll lately as the leader of The Hurt Business faction. Kross hopes his time off allowed him to refocus his strategy. But Lashley’s momentum and allies may prove too much to overcome. The prediction sees Lashley moving forward in the tournament with a win. Orton & Knight Team Up Against The Bloodline: Friday’s show is scheduled to close with a huge tag team main event. 16-time World Champion Randy Orton will team up with rising star LA Knight to take on Jimmy and Jey Uso of The Bloodline faction. This follows last week’s show-closing segment that set up the match. Orton and Knight have developed chemistry as partners lately. They must be at their best to knock off the dominant Usos. Jimmy and Jey have held the WWE Tag Team Championship since July. With cousin Roman Reigns as Universal Champion, The Bloodline controls all the gold on SmackDown. This looks to be an exciting clash between veterans and upstarts against arguably WWE’s most prominent faction. While The Usos have owned the tag division for months, look for Orton and Knight to score a feel-good win on the special edition show. CM Punk Returning For the First Time in Years: In what is being promoted as a shocking surprise, former WWE Champion CM Punk will return on this week’s SmackDown. This will be his first WWE appearance since early 2014 when he abruptly left the company. Punk departed WWE following a high-profile falling out over creative differences and health issues. His return comes after making a name for himself on the independent scene and a run in All Elite Wrestling. After nearly a decade, what brings CM Punk back to WWE programming? Rumors indicate he may consider signing a Legends contract like other former stars have done. SmackDown authority figure Nick Aldis could approach Punk with an offer on Friday. But Punk probably won’t commit right away. He may want time to feel out this surprise return first. And the outspoken Punk could find himself confronted by younger talent. Austin Theory and Grayson Waller may interrupt Punk’s segment trying to make a name for themselves against a former top guy. This could even lead to Punk delivering a signature Go To Sleep maneuver at their expense. Flair and Asuka Set for One-on-One Showdown: In the women’s division, SmackDown Women’s Champion Charlotte Flair looks to gain momentum towards WrestleMania. She’ll take on Asuka in a non-title singles match. While Asuka won’t have her Damage Control partners ringside due to the match stipulation, she still poses a threat. Asuka and Flair have battled over the title frequently over the past couple of years. This first-time-ever Tribute to the Troops episode figures to see WWE’s top female star score an impressive victory. With WrestleMania season approaching, Flair will look to enter 2024 still the SmackDown Women’s Champion. Fending off Asuka in what should be a strong match is part of that goal. How to Watch: Catch all this exciting action on the Tribute to the Troops edition of Friday Night SmackDown at 8 PM EST on Fox. For fans in India, the show will air at 6:30 AM IST on Saturday. After a hectic week of shows, WWE closes it out by honoring American troops ahead of the holidays. This special episode looks ready to deliver entertainment while setting the stage for storylines carrying into 2024 and WrestleMania.
WWE All Pay Per Views 2023: Review, Top, Worst, Key Points And Ratings
The world of professional wrestling is always filled with excitement and drama, and the WWE pay-per-view (PPV) events in 2023 have been no exception. This year has seen spectacular matches, surprise returns, title changes, and unforgettable moments that have thrilled fans. Let’s review the top WWE PPV events so far in 2023. The year kicked off in high gear with the Royal Rumble on January 28th, held at the Alamodome in San Antonio. The crowd was electrified by the return of popular wrestler Cody Rhodes, who made a surprise entrance as participant #30 in the 30-man Royal Rumble match. After a six-year absence from WWE, Rhodes returned to win the entire Rumble match, punching his ticket to a world championship match at WrestleMania. Another shocker came when Sami Zayn betrayed his Bloodline teammates, attacking Roman Reigns after Reigns retained the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. This surprise heel turn signaled an intriguing new chapter in Zayn’s ongoing storyline. Overall, the surprise-filled Rumble set the stage for big things ahead in 2023. Next up was the Elimination Chamber event held on February 18th at the Bell Centre in Montreal. The highlight of the night was the emotionally charged match between Reigns and former friend Zayn for the Undisputed Title. Despite Zayn’s inspirational effort, Reigns won yet again, retaining his championship after a grueling battle. There was also a milestone for Asuka, who won the Women’s Elimination Chamber match to become the number one contender for the Raw Women’s Championship. Her victory marked her exciting return to prominence in the women’s division after injury setbacks. WrestleMania 39 spanned two consecutive nights on April 1st and 2nd at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. On Night One, Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens teamed up to dethrone Jimmy and Jey Uso for the Undisputed WWE Tag Team Titles. This ended The Usos’ record tag title reign at 622 days, a shock to many fans. Night Two revolved around the long-awaited fight between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. Despite Rhodes’ valiant effort, Reigns won by submission, retaining his undisputed crown. While fans were disappointed Rhodes didn’t get the big win, the match cemented his status as a top contender. The next PPV, Backlash on May 6th in San Juan, Puerto Rico, had fans buzzing with Cody Rhodes finally achieving his goal. In an intense fight, Rhodes defeated Brock Lesnar to capture the undisputed title, beginning a new championship era. Rhodes got emotional after his hard-fought victory, which capped off his triumphant return story that began at the Royal Rumble. For Lesnar, it halted his dominant streak since winning the title months earlier. The next PPV was the Night of Champions on May 27th in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. In a clash between two fan favorites, Seth Rollins defeated AJ Styles to capture the World Heavyweight Championship for the second time. Their electrifying match earned rave reviews as a pay-per-view highlight. For Rollins, it marked another peak in his illustrious career. Money in the Bank on July 2nd in London saw a major title change hands when Jey Uso shockingly pinned Roman Reigns to capture the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship. This marked Reigns’ first pinfall loss in years, ending his dominant reign. The other headline was Damian Priest winning the Money in the Bank ladder match, and earning a contract for a future title match. SummerSlam followed on August 6th in Detroit. In an emotional main event, Cody Rhodes defeated Brock Lesnar to retain the Undisputed Title in a brutal contest. There was also a surprise cash-in when IYO SKY used her Money in the Bank contract to defeat Bianca Belair for the Raw Women’s Championship just minutes after Belair had won it. September’s Payback event in Pittsburgh delivered more twists. Kevin Owens captured the Undisputed Title from Reigns, halting Reigns’ staggering 846-day championship stretch. Also, Becky Lynch outlasted legend Trish Stratus in a steel cage match, further cementing her place among WWE’s all-time greats. At October’s Fastlane in Indianapolis, Sami Zayn sent shockwaves when he finally betrayed The Bloodline, attacking Reigns after his successful title defense against Cody Rhodes. This signaled a pivotal turning point in the year’s biggest storyline. In another key title bout, Seth Rollins retained his newly won World Heavyweight Belt against Bobby Lashley. November brought WWE to Saudi Arabia for Crown Jewel. In a milestone moment, Rhea Ripley captured the Raw Women’s Title in WWE’s first-ever women’s match in the country. Her victory over Bianca Belair made her Raw’s top female star. In the main event, Roman Reigns defended the Undisputed WWE Universal Championship against influencer Logan Paul. Finally, Survivor Series in November saw the epic return of legend Randy Orton, who helped Team Cody Rhodes defeat The Judgment Day. Orton’s comeback added shock value and excitement to cap off an unforgettable year of WWE pay-per-views filled with twists turns, titles changing hands, and history being made. Overall, WWE’s 2023 pay-per-view slate delivered countless memorable moments that left the WWE Universe buzzing. Despite some uneven events, most shows excelled with surprise returns like Randy Orton, major title changes like Jey Uso dethroning Roman Reigns, new stars rising like Rhea Ripley, emotional contests like Cody Rhodes vs. Brock Lesnar, and plot twists like Sami Zayn turning on The Bloodline. With risks taken and status quo shaken up, WWE continued its legacy of providing spectacular entertainment on the grandest stages.
3 Reasons Why AJ Styles vs CM Punk Will Be A Dream Match
The anticipation of Royal Wumble 2024 is reaching high with the return of superstars to WWE. We already have noticed the return of Randy Orton in WWE Survivor Series 2023. Also, you must be familiar with the surprise return of CM Punk at the same event. It was a shocking moment which sent shockwaves through the wrestling community. However, the excitement does not stop here, we might see the return of AJ Styles soon to WWE in the coming weeks ahead of the WWE Royal Rumble 2024. Styles’ absence since his brutal encounter with Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso in September, which culminated in his departure in an ambulance, has left a void in WWE that only a superstar of his caliber can fill. His expected challenge to CM Punk upon his return is a scenario that fans are eagerly anticipating. If these two titans clash at WWE Royal Rumble 2024, it’s not just a match; it’s a dream encounter. One reason this would be a dream match is the collision of two parallel paths. Although AJ Styles and CM Punk have briefly crossed paths in the early 2000s, the wrestling world has yet to witness a major promotion showdown between these two icons. Both have carved out legendary careers in WWE and New Japan Pro-Wrestling. A face-off between Styles and Punk would blend history with intense current rivalries. The storyline possibilities, particularly with The Club’s recent heel turn targeting Punk, could add an electrifying dynamic. This match would be a narrative-rich spectacle. Additionally, the prospect of seeing CM Punk, a wrestler who has etched his name in WWE lore, step into the ring with AJ Styles, is nothing short of a wrestling fan’s dream. Punk’s journey, which saw him venture out to AEW, has only added to his mystique. His celebrated return to WWE promises must-see action against Styles, a consistent fan-favorite known for his high-flying, hard-hitting style. Their convergence at Royal Rumble 2024 would captivate as a clash of eras and styles. Finally, the narrative of resilience and comeback makes this a potentially monumental match. AJ Styles returning after injury against Punk is a story of triumph over adversity. Both wrestlers have shown enduring appeal and ability to draw crowds, remaining at the pinnacle of wrestling for over twenty years. Their match would be more than a display of physical prowess – it would showcase their talent and be a testament to the human spirit. Between the high stakes, emotional draw, and world-class action, AJ Styles vs CM Punk defines what it means to be a dream match. Ever since Punk left WWE in 2014 after a blazing 434-day reign as WWE Champion, fans wondered if they would ever see him compete in a WWE ring again. His sudden departure left many storylines unfinished, perhaps none bigger than a potential match with AJ Styles. By the time Styles signed with WWE in 2016, Punk was firmly entrenched in the world of MMA. But Styles became a cornerstone of WWE programming over the next six years. As current Raw Tag Team Champion, his résumé includes two WWE Championship reigns, a United States Championship run and several high-profile matches at WrestleMania. Likewise, CM Punk entered wrestler lore when he captured the Ring of Honor World Championship in 2005 before moving onto WWE stardom. His famous “pipe bomb” promo in 2011 sparked tremendous interest in his controversial persona. His verbal skills on the mic and technical mastery in the ring made him one of WWE’s most popular performers. Though his MMA foray with UFC proved unsuccessful, his signing with thriving upstart AEW demonstrated Punk still had drawing power. His emotional return at the second AEW show in his hometown of Chicago amped anticipation for what he could achieve. Rumblings of discord between Punk and AEW management marred his time there however. Finally, the wrestling world exploded with shock when he suddenly re-emerged in WWE after eight long years at Survivor Series 2023. Social media exploded over his confrontation with video screens teasing his old foe Kevin Owens. The wrestling community buzzed over dream matches with Seth Rollins, Randy Orton, Roman Reigns and Bobby Lashley. Yet many still returned to the missed opportunity between AJ Styles and CM Punk, two generational talents that never crossed paths in their prime. Those wondering what could have been may finally get their wish if these two icons square off at WrestleMania 41 next April. The renewed possibility comes off Styles’ setback against The Bloodline’s Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso last September that hospitalized him via ambulance. As a veteran entering his late 40s, skepticism arose concerning Styles returning from injury to compete at the highest level. But true to his “Phenomenal” moniker, Styles appears poised for a triumphant Royal Rumble return to win the 30-man melee – and punch his ticket to WrestleMania. Given CM Punk’s confrontational history with Roman Reigns and The Bloodline, he figures to play a prominent role on the road to WrestleMania as well. What better showcase for his big return than a showdown with a fellow legend? Pitting Styles against CM Punk for a first-time-ever dream match could be the perfect complement to Roman Reigns headlining the spectacular for the WWE Universal Championship. So why does this potential clash between AJ Styles and CM Punk loom as such a dream match? What aspects might cement is place in WrestleMania lore? Consider these three compelling reasons why: A Contrast of Personalities and Wrestling Styles – Styles’ high-flying arsenal stands out among his quickness and precision honed over years in the ring. That clashes excitingly against Punk’s more grounded, brawling style melded with his vaunted submission prowess. Add in their varied personas with Styles as the consummate good guy against Punk’s anti-hero edge, and the chemistry oozes tremendous potential. Historical Significance – This match carries far more weight than a standard first-time pairing because of each icon’s enormous success over 20+ years. Their shared credibility as former champions and headliners lends
5 Reasons Why Dominik Mysterio Should Win WWE Royal Rumble 2024
The son of the legendary Rey Mysterio, Dominik Mysterio has quickly made a name for himself in the WWE. After decisively pinning his own father at SummerSlam 2022, Dominik has shown that he will do whatever it takes to climb to the top of the WWE. The 24-year-old is currently slated to defend his North American Championship against Dragon Lee at NXT Deadline on December 10th. With Wes Lee unable to compete due to injury, Dragon Lee poses a formidable threat to Dominik’s title reign. While Dominik may lose at NXT Deadline, bigger things could be on the horizon as rumors swirl of WWE planning something major for the up-and-coming star. Winning the 2024 Royal Rumble match would catapult Dominik into the main event scene and set the stage for even greater success down the road. Here are five reasons why Dominik Mysterio should emerge victorious. First and foremost, a Royal Rumble win would allow Dominik to continue building on the momentum of the Judgment Day storyline. As the faction’s youngest member, Dominik has already proven his ruthlessness fits right in with Finn Balor and Damian Priest. By winning the Rumble, Dominik could pave the way for The Judgment Day to capture more championship gold and cement themselves as an unstoppable force in the WWE. The captivating feud with Edge and Rey Mysterio could escalate to even greater heights. Additionally, Dominik has demonstrated immense talent both on the mic and in the ring, especially as a heel. He has fully embraced his arrogant, entitled persona and continues to garner tremendous heat from the WWE Universe. A heel champion with as much raw talent as Dominik could do wonders for generating interest in the product. Fans love to hate a good villain, and Dominik plays the part to perfection. Handing the lucrative Royal Rumble win to Dominik would also inject much-needed unpredictability into WWE programming. With rumors constantly circulating about major plans for Roman Reigns, Cody Rhodes, and Brock Lesnar going into Wrestlemania 40, a Dominik victory would come out of the left field. Shocking plot twists create buzz and leave fans wondering what will happen next. On a similar note, Dominik winning would showcase WWE’s commitment to elevating wrestling’s next generation. For all his father Rey’s legendary accomplishments, injuries continue limiting his availability. Dominik inheriting his family’s legacy by winning such a history-making match would demonstrate Rey passing the torch onto WWE’s young talent. Lastly, Dominik has steadily improved between the ropes since his debut over two years ago. His offense continues expanding, he has held his own in marquee matches on multiple pay-per-views, and his in-ring psychology excels. Winning such a career-altering match could give Dominik the confidence boost to reach that next level as a wrestler. The main event scene often forces wrestlers to step out of their comfort zones. While the 2024 Royal Rumble remains months away, these factors make an excellent case for why Dominik Mysterio should emerge victorious when all is said and done. WWE wants young stars that move merchandise and elicit reactions from the WWE Universe. Dominik checks both boxes and shows no signs of slowing momentum any time soon. By winning the Royal Rumble, Dominik could cement his place as one of WWE’s most prominent young talents for years to come. He possesses all the tools both character-wise and in the ring. Now could be Dominik’s time to realise his vast potential by winning the iconic Royal Rumble match.
AEW Collision spoilers from December 9th, 2023
All Elite Wrestling (AEW) brought Collision to Montreal, Canada for the first time this week. The promotion held back-to-back shows at the Bell Centre, kicking off with the Collision tapings on Tuesday night for this Saturday’s episode airing December 9th. Several matches were advertised ahead of time, including a battle between Canadians Kenny Omega and Ethan Page. Additionally, more Blue League matches in the Continental Classic tournament were slated. Spoilers are out for the full results of the Collision card taped this week. Eddie Kingston defeated Claudio Castagnoli in a Continental Classic first-round match. In a hard-hitting affair, Kingston was able to reverse a pin attempt by Castagnoli to pick up the victory. This marks Kingston’s first points earned in the tournament standings. In the clash between Canadians, Kenny Omega emerged victorious over Ethan Page after hitting the One Winged Angel finishing maneuver. However, as Omega headed back up the ramp following the pinfall win, he was blindsided by Big Bill. Big Bill and Ricky Starks currently hold the AEW World Tag Team Championship. Omega and his tag partner Chris Jericho have an upcoming title shot against Big Bill and Starks, furthering the rivalry between the teams. The self-proclaimed “Captain of Team Taz” Ricky Starks assisted Big Bill in the attack on Omega. Jericho, Omega’s tag partner, was not present as he had worked earlier in the event. This could foreshadow dissension between Jericho and Omega heading into their tag title match. In another match confirmed for this Saturday’s Collision, Wardlow defeated Willie Mack. Wardlow put his raw power on display, defeating Mack after hitting several intense powerbombs. Women’s action was also featured with Willow Nightingale scoring a victory over Mercedes Martinez. Nightingale would have little time to celebrate though, as Diamante hit the ring and attacked her right after the bell rang. This brought out Kris Statlander, who has her own issues with Diamante’s faction, to help even the odds. A brawl broke out with Nightingale and Statlander standing tall in the end. Tag team action pitted Penta El Zero Miedo and Komander against Matt Hardy’s clients Isiah Kassidy and Marq Quen, collectively known as Private Party. The Lucha Brothers member Penta and his partner Komander came out on top to defeat Private Party. The main event contest featured a high-stakes Continental Classic tournament battle. Andrade El Idolo squared off against Bryan Danielson, with the winner moving one step closer to a title opportunity. In a bloody affair that saw Danielson cut open and bleeding profusely, Andrade managed to capitalize after hitting his trademark hammerlock DDT finisher. Following the loss, Danielson’s Blackpool Combat Club running mates Jon Moxley, Claudio Castagnoli, and Wheeler Yuta hit the ring to check on Danielson’s condition. This Saturday’s Collision looks to deliver on big matches while also furthering key rivalries. The attack on Kenny Omega by Big Bill and Ricky Starks adds intensity to their impending tag title bout. Willow Nightingale and Kris Statlander formed an alliance against Diamante’s crew. And Andrade now sits in prime position in the Continental Classic after knocking off Bryan Danielson. The road to AEW Revolution 2024 will continue this weekend!