Just 24 hours before Money in the Bank, WWE’s SmackDown took over the 02 Arena in London for an action-packed go-home episode. The show featured the return of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns and continued the intense rivalry within The Bloodline. Here’s a recap of the key events from the Fox broadcast.
Show Lineup
- Roman Reigns returns
- Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Match: Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn (c) vs. Pretty Deadly
- WWE Women’s Championship Match: Charlotte Flair vs. Asuka (c)
- The Grayson Waller Effect starring Logan Paul
- Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship: Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn vs. Pretty Deadly
Tag Team Championship Match
In the opening contest, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn successfully defended their Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship against Pretty Deadly. Owens fought through a leg injury, and Zayn prevented the challengers from resorting to their deceptive tactics. This match showcased the skills of Pretty Deadly and solidified the champions’ credibility.
Result: Zayn and Owens defeated Pretty Deadly to retain
Grade: B
Ridge Holland vs. Austin Theory
United States champion Austin Theory defeated Ridge Holland in a title eliminator match. Theory exploited Holland’s throat injury and secured the victory. Sheamus made his presence felt, hinting at a future title challenge. While the match was acceptable, it lacked significance in the overall picture.
Result: Theory defeated Holland
Grade: C
Shotzi vs. Bayley
Shotzi faced Bayley in a high-stakes match with a spot in the Women’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match on the line. Bayley managed to win with the help of interference from Iyo Sky. The post-match segment hinted at a potential push for Shotzi and signaled the disintegration of Damage CTRL.
Result: Bayley defeated Shotzi
Grade: C+
The Grayson Waller Effect with Logan Paul; Triple Threat Match
The focus shifted to the Men’s Money in the Bank Ladder Match. The segment included Logan Paul and a Triple Threat Match featuring LA Knight, Santos Escobar, and Butch. LA Knight delivered a compelling promo, showcasing his chemistry with Paul. However, fans’ overwhelming support for Knight raises expectations for his potential victory. The involvement of Logan Paul aligns with his unfinished business in WWE.
Result: Butch defeated Escobar and Knight
Grade: B
WWE Women’s Championship Match: Charlotte Flair vs. Asuka
Bianca Belair, sitting ringside, injected herself into the match between Charlotte Flair and Asuka for the WWE Women’s Championship. After a competitive encounter, Belair attacked both competitors, setting up a potential three-way match involving these exceptional talents. This clash has the potential to steal the show at any event.
Result: No contest
Grade: B-
The Bloodline Civil War
The main event segment focused on the ongoing feud within The Bloodline. Roman Reigns faced dissension from Solo Sikoa and a strong challenge from Jey Uso. The intense promo work and facial expressions showcased the turmoil within the faction, generating excitement for the upcoming Money in the Bank event.
Grade: A
Overall Grade: A
The SmackDown episode delivered exciting matches, progressed ongoing storylines, and built anticipation for Money in the Bank. The show stood out as a strong go-home episode, with impressive performances from the talent and an engaged crowd in London.
Summary Table:
| Segment | Winner | Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Undisputed WWE Tag Team Championship Match | Zayn and Owens | B |
| Ridge Holland vs. Austin Theory | Theory | C |
| Shotzi vs. Bayley | Bayley | C+ |
| The Grayson Waller Effect; Triple Threat Match | Butch | B |
| WWE Women’s Championship Match | No contest | B- |
| The Bloodline Civil War | N/A | A |
| Overall Grade | N/A | A |
