WWE SmackDown Just Delivered One of Its Most Explosive Shows Yet – But Did It Live Up to the Hype?
Welcome to Bleacher Report's in-depth breakdown of WWE SmackDown's January 9th episode, a night that promised fireworks and delivered... well, let's just say it was a mixed bag. After last week's return to a three-hour format, expectations were sky-high, especially with the highly anticipated Three Stages of Hell match headlining the card. But here's where it gets controversial: did the show truly capitalize on its potential, or did it fall victim to some questionable booking decisions?
The Card That Had Us Buzzing
WWE certainly knew how to get fans talking with this lineup:
- Cody Rhodes vs. Drew McIntyre (Three Stages of Hell, WWE Championship): A brutal, high-stakes match that, on paper, screamed classic.
- Trick Williams vs. Rey Fenix: A clash of styles and generations, pitting the rising star against the seasoned luchador.
- Wyatt Sicks vs. MFTs: Faction warfare at its finest, with the enigmatic Wyatts facing off against the formidable MFTs.
- Giulia vs. Alexa Bliss (United States Championship): A title defense for the newly crowned Giulia, facing the unpredictable Bliss.
Randy Orton's Return: A Legend's Welcome or a Missed Opportunity?
The Viper's return promo, his first since last week's RKO on The Miz, was interrupted by Trick Williams, setting the stage for a potential feud. Williams, dressed for his match, challenged Orton's relevance in 2026, sparking a heated exchange. While Orton's legendary status was on full display, the segment felt rushed, leaving Williams looking somewhat foolish before his debut match. Was this the best way to introduce a new star, or did it undermine his credibility?
Match Breakdowns: Hits, Misses, and Questionable Finishes
Rey Fenix vs. Trick Williams: Williams dominated, showcasing his power, but the match lacked the expected intensity. A dirty finish, with Williams grabbing the tights for the win, hinted at a future rematch. Did this ending do justice to both competitors' talents?
Giulia vs. Alexa Bliss: A high-energy contest marred by another controversial finish. Lash Legend's interference led to Giulia's victory, but the repeated use of dirty tactics left a sour taste. Is WWE relying too heavily on these endings, sacrificing clean, decisive victories?
MFT vs. Wyatt Sicks: A fast-paced, physical match that culminated in a clever victory for the MFTs. Solo Sikoa's use of the lantern to distract Uncle Howdy was a highlight. This match showcased the potential of both factions, but are the Wyatts being underutilized?
Alba Fyre vs. Jordynne Grace: A short, power-packed debut for Grace, who quickly dispatched Fyre. Jade Cargill's post-match confrontation hinted at a title feud. Is WWE rushing Grace into the title picture, or is this a calculated move to establish her as a force?
Carmelo Hayes vs. Shinsuke Nakamura: The undisputed highlight of the night. A clean, technical masterpiece that showcased both wrestlers' skills. Hayes' victory solidified his championship reign. This match proved that SmackDown's U.S. title scene is on fire, but can WWE maintain this level of quality?
Final Thoughts: A Show of Contrasts
SmackDown's January 9th episode was a rollercoaster of highs and lows. While matches like Hayes vs. Nakamura and MFT vs. Wyatt Sicks delivered, others fell victim to questionable booking and rushed finishes. The show's potential was undeniable, but it left us wondering: Is WWE playing it safe, or are they afraid to let their stars truly shine?
What did you think of this week's SmackDown? Did the controversial finishes ruin the show for you, or were they necessary to build future storylines? Let us know in the comments below!
