Triple H to give Nick Aldis a 6’7’’ Authority figure, Solo Sikoa’s father to return? - 4 things that could happen on WWE SmackDown this week

Tonight’s episode of WWE SmackDown marks the company’s first show of 2025. The new year is expected to bring fresh dynamics to the Stamford-based promotion, making this week’s edition of the blue brand compelling. Additionally, this will be the final Friday Night SmackDown before RAW’s highly anticipated Netflix debut, counting even more excitement to the show.

In this article, we will discuss four potential things that could take place on SmackDown this week.

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#4. Braun Strowman might turn heel on SmackDown

Amid his ongoing rivalry with Carmelo Hayes, Braun Strowman recently found himself trapped in the Bloodline Saga. This happened when he attempted to rescue Sami Zayn from a brutal attack by the new Bloodline. However, things didn’t go as planned, as the Monster Among Monsters was dominated and destroyed by Solo Sikoa's faction.

Undoubtedly, Strowman now has revenge on his mind and will likely seek to settle the score. One potential scenario could involve him turning heel and unleashing a path of destruction on the new Bloodline.

This villainous transformation would allow Braun to adopt a more aggressive approach, enabling him to exact his revenge in the most impactful way possible.

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#3. Tiffany Stratton might shock the world on the first SmackDown of 2025

Tiffany Stratton has yet to cash in her Money in the Bank briefcase. While she has teased her cash-in multiple times, it has yet to materialize. Recently, tensions have been growing between Stratton and the current Women’s Champion, Nia Jax.

With tonight’s show marking the first episode of 2025, Tiffany Stratton might shock the world by finally cashing in her contract and capturing the Women’s World Championship. This could happen if Stratton seizes the perfect opportunity to strike against Jax, ultimately defeating the Irresistible Force to claim the title.

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#2. Rikishi could return to confront Solo Sikoa before the Tribal combat match

Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa are set to clash in a high-stakes Tribal Combat match on RAW’s Netflix debut, with the prestigious Ula Fala on the line. As the father of the self-proclaimed Tribal Chief and a respected elder in the Samoan dynasty, the Hall of Famer could make a surprise appearance on tonight’s show.

Rikishi might confront Solo Sikoa and emphasize the importance of the upcoming match and what it means for the future of the Bloodline Saga. A heartfelt family segment like this would heighten anticipation among fans for the Tribal Combat match on RAW’s Netflix premiere.

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#1. Nick Aldis might get Wade Barrett as the Acting General Manager of SmackDown

Nick Aldis has been serving as the General Manager of SmackDown, but keeping control has been challenging, mainly due to Kevin Owens's actions. Last week, The Prizefighter even pushed the National Treasure to attack Cody Rhodes.

Given the ongoing chaos, Triple H might reinforce SmackDown’s authority structure by appointing Wade Barrett as the new acting General Manager alongside Nick Aldis. The 6'7" star recently bid farewell to the RAW commentary team, as Michael Cole and Pat McAfee are replacing him.

This transition opens up several possibilities for Barrett, including a potential move to Friday Nights to assist Aldis in maintaining order under Triple H’s directive. A scenario like this is reminiscent of past WWE storylines, such as Baron Corbin serving as Acting General Manager alongside Kurt Angle on RAW.