A week after being brutally attacked by Jey Uso and Solo Sikoa, John Cena made a roaring comeback on WWE SmackDown Friday night, seeking retribution. Alone in his quest, the question remained: would another WWE Superstar join him in solidarity?
Dive into the highlights of this week’s episode.
Match Card Overview 1 OF 7
The September 29 show boasted an impressive lineup:
- US Championship: Rey Mysterio (c) vs. Santos Escobar
- Charlotte Flair vs. Bayley
- Special: The Grayson Waller Effect featuring Bobby Lashley
- John Cena’s awaited appearance
- SmackDown’s opening: The Bloodline; Karl Anderson vs. Jimmy Uso
2 OF 7
The episode commenced with Paul Heyman, Jimmy Uso, and Solo Sikoa. In their spiel, they mockingly suggested Cena faced transportation issues, implying he was too fearful to show up.
Transitioning from the banter, Uso squared off against The OC’s Karl Anderson. The match, rather one-sided, emphasized Uso’s dominance over his primarily tag-oriented opponent.
More than the match, it was Uso’s evident defiance against Heyman and Sikoa that caught attention, setting the stage for future dramatic developments with Cena.
Result: Uso emerges victorious over Anderson.
3 OF 7
On The Grayson Waller Effect, Bobby Lashley dropped the bombshell that his alliance with The Street Profits was over, hinting at a larger storyline in the backdrop.
Subsequently, Austin Theory battled Cameron Grimes, with the former dominating.
Result: Theory trumps Grimes.
4 OF 7
In an intense showdown, Santos Escobar challenged Rey Mysterio for the US Championship. Mysterio triumphed, further escalating their dynamic. The clash later involved a surprise attack by The Street Profits, cheered on by Bobby Lashley.
Result: Mysterio retains his title.
5 OF 7
SmackDown’s women’s division saw an electrifying face-off between Charlotte Flair and Bayley. The climax saw Flair overpowering Bayley. Asuka’s surprise entry to defend Flair teased future tag team possibilities.
Result: Flair stands tall over Bayley.
6 OF 7
Finally, Cena took center stage, ready to face The Bloodline’s Jimmy Uso and Solo Sikoa solo at Fastlane. Just as tensions peaked, LA Knight charged in, siding with Cena, ensuring a high-octane match at the upcoming event.
Result: LA Knight aligns with Cena.
Episode Verdict 7 OF 7
This SmackDown episode struck the right chords, gearing up for Fastlane. The anticipated face-off between Cena and LA Knight versus Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso promises fireworks. With the women’s title announcement and the budding Mysterio-Escobar rivalry, the episode set the stage for a thrilling month ahead in WWE.
Episode Grade: Solid B.