SmackDown 09.02.2024

Finally, the Radiant Team is back in Charlotte, NC! Last week’s episode left us with a ton of questions: Is The Rock making a full comeback to WWE? How will Roman Reigns react to this? Will Nia and Rhea clash again? Plus, the tag team contenders are set to battle it out to determine who will face The Judgment Day. It feels like we're in for an exciting and action-packed show tonight. So, let’s dive right in!

Triple H Kicks Off the Show

SmackDown continues to surprise us every single week. This time, it was Triple H himself who opened the show, accompanied by both General Managers, Adam Pearce and Nick Aldis. Hunter thanked everyone in the arena and at home for sticking with WWE for so long – much appreciation from the Game. He then addressed the elephant in the room: Roman Reigns is the face of WWE, a dominant champion, but it’s Paul Heyman who's pulling the strings. As for Cody Rhodes, who won the Royal Rumble, he will indeed challenge Roman at WrestleMania, not The Rock. Nick Aldis also added that Seth Rollins won't be left without a challenger. The winner of the Elimination Chamber will get the chance to face Rollins at WrestleMania, and with 12 superstars competing, it promises to be an epic contest.

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - Three most powerful people in WWE. 

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Drew McIntyre vs. AJ Styles

Right off the bat, we get a major showdown between two greats: AJ Styles, recently back in action, and the Scottish Warrior, Drew McIntyre. Drew grabbed the mic to voice his frustration, stating that while Triple H made the right call, he doesn’t understand why he has to fight for a title shot he believes is already his. But he’s determined to bulldoze his way through anyone in his path to reclaiming championship gold. AJ, sporting a fresh attitude and look, has a lot to prove after being pinned by Roman in the fatal four-way.

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - Turning point of the match.

LA Knight joined the commentary, and I knew AJ was in for some trouble. Drew dominated early, using his strength, speed, and counters to outmatch Styles. However, AJ smartly targeted Drew’s leg, gaining some momentum. The match ended in chaos, with Drew pushing AJ into Knight at ringside. AJ nearly won with a perfect roll-up, but LA Knight distracted the referee, allowing Drew to hit the Claymore for the victory. Another tough loss for Styles, while McIntyre’s hot streak continues.

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - Drew is going to EC. 

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Bianca Belair vs. Michin

Right after that, we got another qualifying match, this time featuring Bianca Belair and Michin, two friends battling for a spot in the Elimination Chamber. It’s never easy facing someone you like, and history shows that friendships can turn into bitter rivalries after a match. This looked like a clear win for the EST, but Michin surprised us with some impressive moves and confidence, holding her own against the powerful Belair.

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - Bianca demonstrated impressive athletic skills. 

Despite Michin putting up a solid fight, the match ended predictably, with Bianca hitting the K.O.D. for the win. A solid performance from both, and best of luck to Michin moving forward.

Triple H’s Busy Day

Backstage, Triple H had a friendly chat with Bron Breakker. There’s clearly mutual respect between them, with Hunter recalling Bron’s father’s legacy. Unfortunately, their pleasant conversation was interrupted by Paul Heyman, who ominously announced that next week, he, Roman Reigns, and The Rock would all be present. Something big is brewing, and it’ll be interesting to see how Triple H handles Heyman’s veiled threat.

Bayley: The People’s Choice?

Bayley, one of the top contenders for the Women’s Championship, is back in the building. It’s funny how quickly the crowd’s opinion can shift – now, they’re solidly behind Bayley. She addressed the audience, stating that while she’s proud of everything Damage CTRL has achieved, she still feels betrayed. But Bayley is determined to take away what Damage CTRL values most: their championship gold.

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - Predators surrounding their prey. 

Just then, Dakota Kai appeared, her presence always a welcome surprise. Despite Bayley’s trust issues, Dakota claims that Kairi and Asuka are to blame for Damage CTRL’s implosion, not her. Dakota still considers Bayley a friend and offers her support. At that moment, Kabuki Warriors, led by Iyo Sky, arrived to finish what they started. Dakota had to retreat due to her injury, and it seemed like Bayley was in serious trouble, but Dakota returned with steel chairs in hand. The Kabuki Warriors held their ground, though. This conflict is heating up, and I hope Dakota doesn't betray Bayley when she needs her most.

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - Dakota makes her choice in this conflict.

Randy Orton Learns Patience

Backstage, Randy Orton shared some wisdom about how he’s learned to bide his time, waiting for the perfect moment to strike. His road to WrestleMania begins tonight against Sami Zayn, and a focused, patient Randy is a dangerous opponent. Poor Sami.

Tag Team Championship Contender Match: DIY vs. Tyler Bate & Pete Dunne

Finally, the match I’d been eagerly awaiting: DIY vs. Tyler Bate and Pete Dunne. My personal pick was Bate and Dunne because we’ve already seen DIY vs. Judgment Day. Fresh opponents would bring more excitement. This match was essentially Tyler Bate vs. Johnny Gargano and Ciampa, with Bate showing off his unique style and impressive strength.

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - Big Strong Boy shows his incredible power. 

Despite DIY’s motivation, it was Pete Dunne’s Bitter End that sealed the victory, sending SmackDown’s boys to face Judgment Day. A well-deserved win!

Dominic’s Troubles Begin

Dirty Dominic Mysterio hit the ring to run his mouth, announcing that he’ll compete in the Elimination Chamber but is unconcerned about his opponent. Enter Kevin Owens, the Canadian bulldozer, who informed Dominic that he’s his opponent next week. KO even dedicated his future victory to the one and only Rey Mysterio. I don't see any chances for Dominic here.

Logan Paul is Upset

Logan Paul is furious about having to compete in a qualifying match. Considering his star power and U.S. Championship status, he feels he should face Seth Rollins directly. But he’ll handle it, starting by taking down The Miz. Given their history, this match should be full of trash-talking and drama.

Main Event: Sami Zayn vs. Randy Orton

The final match of the night featured Sami Zayn, who shared his thoughts beforehand, still convinced his WrestleMania moment is coming. But tonight, it’s Randy’s time. Orton, fresh off his return, methodically tore Sami apart, showing us why he's the Apex Predator. Zayn did get some offense in, even pulling off a perfect Superplex from the top rope. But after two blocked RKOs, the third one hit its mark. Randy Orton wins and moves on to the Elimination Chamber. Tough times for Sami, who’s now on a losing streak. Hopefully, he’ll bounce back soon.

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - Apex Predator strikes again.

Final Thoughts and Ranking

SmackDown 09.02.2024 - After the match Drew exchange looks with Randy before the EC.

Another fantastic SmackDown is in the books. As you know, I’ve rated SmackDown higher than Raw for the past few years, and this episode proves why. We saw new challengers emerge for the Judgment Day, some high-level qualifying matches, and a surprise appearance from Triple H. Overall, I’d give this episode a solid 7.5/10. If Roman had been involved, I’d have given it an 8, but Heyman’s presence was still a nice touch. See you next time on Monday Night Raw – stay tuned!