WWE SmackDown star has earned his stripes; earmarked as major player - Report

It was the end of an era for WWE SmackDown this past Friday as the show ended its run on FOX. From next week, the blue brand will be moved to the USA Network.

The final episode on FOX saw total domination by The Bloodline. All members got enough time to shine in the spotlight. However, there came an interesting point during Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes' opening promo segment with Solo Sikoa, which was intended to announce their title contest inside a Steel Cage for the season premiere next week.

The American Nightmare acknowledged Jacob Fatu, asking the latter to step up as he would rather defend his belt against The Samoan Werewolf than the group's leader, Solo Sikoa. As per WRKD Wrestling, WWE higher-ups view Fatu as a future headliner. The report also noted that his in-ring presence, backstage demeanor, and work ethic has put him in the good graces of those in charge.

Despite Rhodes offering the title shot to Jacob Fatu, he declined after a tense staredown with Solo Sikoa. The Samoan Werewolf has consistently reassured his allegiance to Sikoa. Perhaps next week, he will find a way to make sure the Solo walks away with the Undisputed WWE Championship.

The show has also generated significant buzz as Roman Reigns is advertised to make his return after being attacked by Jacob Fatu and the rest of Bloodline a few weeks ago.

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Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes vs. Jacob Fatu has hype, says Bill Apter

On Sportskeeda Wrestling's Smack Talk following Friday Night SmackDown, Bill Apter discussed Cody Rhodes vs. Solo Sikoa in a Steel Cage Match next week.

Apter believes that despite Sikoa being The Bloodline's leader, fans are not too excited at the prospect of another showdown between the latter and Cody Rhodes. However, Jacob Fatu facing The American Nightmare is a whole other ball game:

"I don't think the fans necessarily want to see Solo against Cody Rhodes as much as they want to see the maniacal, the crazy, the nutcase Fatu against Cody. I think with Jacob Fatu against Cody, there is more of a chance that Cody's title might be in danger." [From 05:22 onwards]

Watch the video above as the possibility of a new name challenging The American Nightmare in the coming months was discussed.

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Do you see WWE throwing a curveball next week by having Solo Sikoa dethrone Cody Rhodes in the season premiere of SmackDown on the USA Network? Hit the Discuss button and share your thoughts!