Why was Jey Uso not on WWE SmackDown this week?

Undisputed WWE Tag Team Champions Jimmy and Jey Uso's relationship has seemingly further strained since the incident in the closing segment of Royal Rumble last week. Sami Zayn's loyalty was put to the test, and Jey cited his displeasure as he walked away from the ring.

The Usos have been close-knit with their real-life cousin Roman Reigns since childhood. The brothers often came to the aid of The Tribal Chief during his many bouts in the aftermath of The Shield's break-up. In 2020, the current WWE Tag Team Champions consolidated their alliance with Reigns and Paul Heyman.

Ever since the mortifying acts against Zayn and Kevin Owens at Royal Rumble, Jey Uso has not broken his silence. But his absence on the latest edition of SmackDown seemingly sent a message loud and clear on his stance with the remaining Bloodline members.

Initially, Jey was not fond of Sami Zayn's vain attempts at getting a spot in the faction. But over time, the Canadian star seemed to grow on Jey Uso. Their bond grew to the extent that he also stood up for Zayn during his trial on RAW XXX when others found him to be guilty.

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Roman Reigns and Jey Uso have not always seen eye-to-eye

Disagreements within factions are not a rarity despite the sense of closeness portrayed. Additionally, with families involved, squabbles will tend to take place. Similarly, The Usos and Roman Reigns have not always been aligned on varied matters.

In 2020, Reigns defended his Universal Championship for the first time against Uso at Clash of Champions. He wanted to be acknowledged as The Tribal Chief, which did not sit well with Jey. Following their bout at the event, they later collided in a first-ever Hell in a Cell 'I Quit' match.

During the match, both competitors were emotional but held nothing back when it came to putting their opponents down. Reigns attempted to crush Jey Uso with the steel steps but witnessed an intervention by Jimmy Uso.

Jimmy Uso was successful in his attempt to reunite both cousins, and soon after, The Bloodline was formed. However, in light of recent events, it seems the bond among all members of the faction is shaky.