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Tonight's episode of SmackDown officially started the countdown to 2025. WWE made some big announcements on the show, with RAW's Netflix debut in mind.
However, there was a lot that happened on the show as well. We saw a heel turn and a title change, while Kevin Owens made an appearance after the main event. Unfortunately, though, there was no Roman Reigns.
So, let's get into SmackDown and see how they dealt with the fallout of Survivor Series: WarGames. Here are the biggest positives and negatives from tonight's episode.
Will John Cena beat Ric Flair's record? A former WCW Champion thinks so HERE
#3. Best: The window is open for RAW, SmackDown, and NXT
The opening segment of SmackDown featured a huge announcement that will shape WWE for the coming year. Chad Gable and his American Made faction interrupted Cody Rhodes' promo, with their interaction eventually leading to a non-title match in the main event.
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However, the main reason for Gable being on the show was for discussions with Nick Aldis over a potential trade. A transfer window between RAW, SmackDown, and NXT has been opened ahead of the red brand's move to Netflix. This is much needed, as the rosters need a refresh for the big reset.
This transfer window is good news for multiple WWE stars, including Chad Gable. American Made would benefit from a change in setting after losing their way on Monday Night RAW. The ex-Olympain took Cody Rhodes to his limit, suggesting he will taste success on Friday nights.
Speaking of The American Nightmare, his show-closing brawl with Kevin Owens was electric. It remains to be seen, though, if his damaged ankle will play a part in next Saturday's Undisputed WWE Title match.
#2. Best/Worst: Just EST things
Bianca Belair had an interesting night on SmackDown. And this is without the fact that her husband was attacked backstage.
The EST of WWE vowed to find the person who attacked Jade Cargill two weeks ago, before being met by a temporary distraction. Piper Niven and Chelsea Green beat her down backstage, resulting in a match between Belair and the Scottish star.
While Bianca was selling her injured ribs, she put on a gutsy performance. It ultimately ended with a KOD on Niven, as The EST stood tall on SmackDown. She continued her pursuit after the match, with Naomi by her side. Could she be the culprit?
Meanwhile, as compelling as this story is, Bianca Belair shouldn't be holding the Women's Tag Team Championship right now. With Cargill out indefinitely, she should be forced to choose a new partner or be stripped of her title.
#1. Worst: WarGames casualties
While we had an idea of some of the injuries suffered in the Bloodline WarGames match at Survivor Series, the full extent wasn't known until SmackDown. Bronson Reed broke his ankle and will be out indefinitely, while Jimmy Uso's toe injury also puts his future in doubt.
Meanwhile, Tonga Loa tore his bicep as well. This means 30% of all male WarGames competitors got injured in the match. We didn't even get any follow-up from The OG Bloodline's point of view. Roman Reigns' absence was felt. Why wouldn't he show up after such a big win?!
Instead, Solo Sikoa and his Bloodline made a statement on SmackDown. They attacked Andrade and LA Knight when both stars came out to confront Shinsuke Nakamura. Solo has sent his message, but how will The OTC respond? We may have to wait another month for it.
#1. Best: Did it themselves
It finally happened. Johnny Gargano saw the light. He made the right choice for the future of his team with Tommaso Ciampa.
After The Street Profits were attacked backstage, DIY conveniently arrived on the scene. Gargano and Ciampa replaced them and challenged The Motor City Machine Guns for the WWE Tag Team Championship. And as we saw, they won the titles after Johnny Wrestling turned heel and joined The Blackheart on the dark side.
This is huge for DIY, who are infinitely more interesting as villains. They have wronged multiple teams, so the Tag Title scene will be busy for the foreseeable future.
