3 reasons why Braun Strowman left WWE RAW to join SmackDown

On the latest episode of Friday Night SmackDown, Braun Strowman made his return to WWE programming. Strowman, who majorly competed on RAW in 2024, moved to the Nick Aldis-led blue brand after the Stamford-based promotion opened the 'Transfer Window.'

In his debut on SmackDown, Strowman beat Carmelo Hayes in a match that lasted a minute and 31 seconds. While The Monster Among Men registered quite a dominant victory, many are interested in what led to him moving from Monday Night RAW.

In this article, we will look at three possible reasons behind Strowman's move from RAW to SmackDown:

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#3. Braun Strowman did not have rivalries on RAW

Before Braun Strowman moved to Friday Night SmackDown, his last appearance on WWE programming came on the September 30 edition of Monday Night RAW, when he defeated Bronson Reed in a Last Monster Standing Match. However, it would be safe to say this victory did not mean much, as Strowman did not have a rivalry to continue.

Instead, it was Reed's career that took off on the red brand after this defeat. Hence, this could be a strong reason why WWE decided to move the giant to SmackDown so that he can form new rivalries and have fresh storylines on the blue brand.

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#2. To have an established big man on SmackDown?

Before Braun Strowman could move to SmackDown in the Transfer Window, the blue brand did not have a single big man on the roster. Strowman, Bronson Reed, and Otis were all on Monday Night RAW, while The Nigerian Giant Omos hasn't been active on WWE TV since participating in the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal.

Therefore, there is a chance WWE sent Strowman to SmackDown to balance out the big men on both brands. However, it's also important to note that Strowman's addition to the blue brand's roster does not only add power and size but also a tonne of experience.

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#1. Go after a championship he has never won?

While Braun Strowman has won a World Championship, among other gold in WWE, the one title he has never won is the coveted United States Championship. Strowman's move to SmackDown is the perfect opportunity for him to try and win this belt.

With Shinsuke Nakamura, a massive heel, reigning as the current United States Champion, there is a chance that a babyface like The Monster Among Men could face the Wayward Samurai. It's also worth noting that if Strowman wins the title, he will become a Grand Slam Champion.