The Opening Showdown: AJ Styles, LA Knight, and Randy Orton’s Face-Off
WWE SmackDown on 22nd December 2023, held at the Resch Center in Green Bay, Wisconsin, kicked off with a bang. AJ Styles made a bold statement, declaring his intent to face Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble.
However, LA Knight and Randy Orton also threw their hats into the ring, each staking their claim for a shot at Reigns.
This led to Nick Aldis announcing a triple threat match between Styles, Knight, and Orton at SmackDown: New Year’s Revolution, with the winner getting a chance at Reigns at the Royal Rumble.
Holiday Havoc: A Festive Women’s Match
The women’s division brought a festive flair to the ring with Bianca Belair, Shotzi, Zelina Vega, and Michin facing off against Damage CTRL.
The match was a chaotic blend of athleticism and holiday-themed props, including candy cane kendo sticks and Christmas trees. Ultimately, it was Michin who secured a surprising victory for her team, pinning IYO after a high-flying senton.
WWE SmackDown Results: NXT North American Championship Match - sDragon Lee vs. Butch
The NXT North American Championship match saw Dragon Lee defending his title against Butch in a highly competitive bout. Both competitors showcased their skills, with Dragon Lee eventually retaining his title.
The match was a testament to the talent in NXT, with both wrestlers earning the respect of the audience.
Roman Reigns and Nick Aldis: A Tense Exchange
Backstage, Roman Reigns had a tense conversation with SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis.
Reigns, asserting his authority as the Tribal Chief, made it clear that all decisions should go through him, setting a tone of dominance and control over the SmackDown roster.
US Championship Tournament: Kevin Owens vs. Carmelo Hayes
In the US Championship tournament, Kevin Owens faced Carmelo Hayes in a match that showcased both competitors’ abilities.
Owens emerged victorious, further cementing his position as a top contender in the tournament. The match was a blend of technical prowess and high-flying manoeuvres, with Owens extending a gesture of respect to Hayes post-match.
WWE SmackDown Results: Bobby Lashley’s Dominance in the US Championship Tournament
Bobby Lashley also made a statement in the US Championship tournament, displaying his power and athleticism. His match was a clear demonstration of why he is considered one of the top competitors in WWE.
The Road to Royal Rumble
As SmackDown came to a close, the stage was set for some high-stakes matches at SmackDown: New Year’s Revolution and the Royal Rumble.
With the WWE Universe buzzing, the anticipation for what’s to come in the world of WWE is at an all-time high.
FAQs
- Who will face Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble? The winner of the triple threat match between AJ Styles, LA Knight, and Randy Orton at SmackDown: New Year’s Revolution will face Roman Reigns.
- Who won the women’s match at SmackDown? Bianca Belair, Shotzi, Zelina Vega, and Michin won, with Michin securing the victory for her team.
- Is Dragon Lee still the NXT North American Champion? Yes, Dragon Lee successfully defended his title against Butch.
- What was the outcome of Kevin Owens vs. Carmelo Hayes? Kevin Owens won the match, advancing in the US Championship tournament.
- Did Roman Reigns compete at this SmackDown? No, Roman Reigns did not compete but had a significant backstage segment with Nick Aldis.
This SmackDown episode was a thrilling blend of high-octane matches and compelling storytelling, setting the stage for an exciting start to 2024 in WWE.
