SmackDown 08.12.2023

Finally, the Radiant Team is come back in Providence, RI! Tonight's show is a special Tribute to the Troops event. It used to be a separate show like PLE, but tonight we'll see it on SmackDown. We have several things to look forward to tonight: Randy Orton RKOed Nick Aldis, as you remember; the Bloodline is in trouble; and CM Punk is coming to SmackDown! Let's see what this episode will bring.

"God Bless America" by The War and Treaty

Tonight's opener was unexpected but quite interesting. Two singers performed "God Bless America." I'm not familiar with them, but I really liked their singing, accompanied by the piano. A beautiful start to the show.

SmackDown 08.12.2023 - Opener with The War and Treaty

Santos Escobar vs Dragon Lee: First Round of USA Title Tournament

There's no love lost between these two competitors. Mexican wrestlers Santos Escobar and Dragon Lee have a long-standing rivalry, with Escobar holding a victory over Lee. Additionally, with members of Jugment Day observing, including Dominic Mysterio, who is set to defend his title against Dragon Lee on NXT, the stakes are high.

SmackDown 08.12.2023: Santos Sets Lee Up for the Phantom Driver

This match didn't last long compared to their previous encounter at WarGames. Surprisingly, Santos managed to defeat Lee swiftly, catching him on the third rope and executing a Phantom Driver. While Lee may be disappointed with the outcome, he should focus on his upcoming opportunity for the North American title. He still has a good chance of capturing it. Good luck to this young star.

Randy Orton and Nick Aldis Meeting After Last Friday

The Viper made his way into Nick's office, check in hand, seeking clarification about tonight's match. Aldis informed Randy that he and LA Knight would team up against Bloodline. Despite Orton's lack of trust in LA, he reluctantly agreed to partner with him.

"Hey Randy, the fine was $50,000. Why is the check for $100,000?" Aldis inquired.

"For the next time," Randy replied coolly.

Randy never changes. A great response from the Viper.

SmackDown 08.12.2023 - Nick Aldis and Randy Orton backstage

Cody Rhodes address to American military forces

American Nightmare is now one of the most popular and beloved wrestlers in WWE. His popularity could be compared to Cena's in his prime years. Cody is the main face, and audiences always love to see him. He speaks for all WWE and thanks American soldiers for their service. Additionally, he introduced a Drill Team. I was expecting some ambush attack from Nakamura, but today is pretty peaceful for American Nightmare.

SmackDown 08.12.2023 - Cody "Wooohooo!"

Bobby Lashley vs. Karrion Kross

Former sergeant Bobby will face Doomsday, who is back on SmackDown accompanied by his wife, the gorgeous Scarlett. Once again, Robert would like to get his hands on the USA title. It was exciting to see Karrion back, but I have no doubts that Lashley will win. Initially, Kross had some good moments, but a Face First and Spear secured victory for Bobby. Thank you for coming, Karrion.

SmackDown 08.12.2023 - Bobby speared Cross

CM Punk's Big Announcement

Phillip makes a grand entrance onto SmackDown, revealing his participation in the Royal Rumble. It's a somewhat predictable announcement, yet it still sparks speculation about this year's potential winner. Meanwhile, Adam Pierce attempts to recruit Punk on Raw, but his hesitance is evident. Punk takes the opportunity to address WWE's top figure, Roman Reigns. While acknowledging Reigns' achievements, Punk reminds the Tribal Chief that Paul Heyman was his wise man first. Punk also references various other wrestlers, suggesting a packed schedule ahead, including Jey, Jimmy, Solo, Randy, LA Knight, and even Kevin Owens. Phillip's ultimate goal? The main event of Wrestlemania. It's a compelling speech, filled with references and sharp words.

SmackDown 08.12.2023 - Hell Froze Over

Asuka vs Charlotte Flair

Damage Control is slowly losing control over the women's division. Once again, Bayley was left backstage as other members marched to the ring. Sadly for them, they were ambushed by Bianca, Shotzi, Zelina Vega, and Mia Yim. Together, they got rid of Asuka's support group, setting the stage for a fair match tonight. The Japanese wrestler tried to gain the upper hand against Charlotte, but the Queen managed to execute her submission move. Just then, the Joker - Bayley - interrupted the submission, allowing Asuka to roll Flair up for a dirty win for Damage Control. I anticipate a strong response to follow.

SmackDown 08.12.2023 - Asuka drop kick to Charlotte

Randy Orton and LA Knight vs Solo Sikoa and Jimmy Uso

Two strong individuals on one hand and blood brothers on the other. On paper Bloodline mmebers should work better and have some advantage over LA and Viper, but every time they came to ring pure dominance is shown. until Solo took tag. Sikoa working for both him and Jimmy. Real monster. But even real monster could be stoped if you throw him on commetary table. Knight in ths match has some good and very speedy sports, covered his ally's back. In final part of the match LA wanted to perfor BFT but RAndy grabbed Jimmy and delivered RKO. Viktory and respect from ORton to his partner. Jimmy in this match and recent months looks very bad and weak. If it contnies that way i think Roman can rejact his cousn from Bloodline. 

SmackDown 08.12.2023 - LA Knight knockes Jimmy out

Ranking and Opinion

Tribute to the Troops has concluded, and I don't have any special feelings about this episode. Two moments stood out: Randy and Nick's conversation and CM Punk's speech. The matches were fast and predictable, so I rate this show 5/10, mainly because of CM Punk, Randy, and LA Knight.

Next week, Tribal Chief will return to SmackDown after a long absence, and he likely has many challenges to address. I miss the times when Roman was on SmackDown every night, having regular matches after his comeback and championship victory. Those were memorable moments.

On that nostalgic note, we'll conclude this SmackDown episode. See you soon, and don't miss out.