New Year, new champs?

AEW also takes Collision to the MAX, as Private Party defend their World Tag Team Championships while Daniel Garcia defend his TNT Championship! Will the landscape of AEW change already?

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• AEW TNT Championship: Daniel Garcia VS Mark Briscoe; wins and
• AEW World Tag Team Championships: Private Party VS Lio Rush & Action Andretti; win(s) and
• Toni Storm VS Deonna Purrazzo w/ Taya Valkyrie; wins.
• Six Man Tag: #RatedFTR VS The Learning Tree; wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Mark Briscoe speaks.

“It’s the New Year, but the only thing I’m bringing new is the fact that I’m cranking it up, baby! The violence! The intensity! All that! Tonight, Daniel Garcia, I’m coming for that TNT title! Danny G, you’re my boi, but I must whoop dat ass tonight, cuz I need that TNT title! Let’s go, baby! ARF ARF AAAH!”

Daniel Garcia speaks.

“Tonight, we make history. The first ever simulcast, TNT, MAX, Mark Briscoe, Daniel Garcia. Mark, I like you, but everybody in Charlotte, North Carolina wants to see a fight tonight, and I do, too. Let’s get it!”

The Learning Tree speaks.

Big Bill starts by telling Rated FTR that tonight, you get taken to school. They won’t give you a rating, they’re giving you a grade. Bryan Keith says they’re gonna flunk, dumbass! Chris Jericho says, “See you soon, guys.” Then his smile slowly sours to a frown.

Rated FTR speaks.

Dax Harwood says that for the first time ever, Collision is on both MAX and TNT. And three days after an absolute war on Dynamite, Rated FTR makes their Collision debut. And it is against Jericho & The Learning Tree. Cash Wheeler says more like The Ugly Trees. Or maybe they fell out of an ugly tree, hit every ugly branch, then got run over by an ugly bus driven by an ugly bus driver, full of ugly kids. Well, that said, #TopGuysOut. But will things get ugly here on the first Saturday night of 2025?

AEW TNT Championship: Daniel Garcia VS Mark Briscoe!

A rematch from the 2024 Continental Classic, Red Death wants to redeem himself against the Sussex County Chicken. Will Garcia make sure he’s still the Face of TNT in the New Year? Or will Briscoe take the intensity to the MAX?

The introductions are made, the belt is raised, and Collision kicks off with gold!

Will Nia Jax finally #FeelTheGlow?

2025 has big things in store for WWE, and it starts with SmackDown going to THREE HOURS! Plus, Naomi gets one more shot at the WWE Women’s Championship!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Andrade VS Shinsuke Nakamura; Nakamura wins.
• Mia Yim VS Piper Niven w/ Chelsea Green; Mia wins.
• WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Motor City Machine Guns; DIY wins by disqualification and retains the titles.
• WWE Women’s Championship: Nia Jax VS Naomi; Nia wins and retains the title.
• WWE Women’s Championship Money in the Bank Cash-In: Nia Jax VS Tiffany Stratton; Tiffany wins and becomes the new WWE Women’s Champion.
• Six Man Tag: The Bloodline VS Sami Zayn & The Usos; The Bloodline wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

Cody Rhodes is here!

Phoenix, Arizona cheers on The American Nightmare as he brings his Undisputed WWE Championship with him to the ring, and they of course sing along, “WHOA~ OH~!” The pyro goes off and Cody continues down the ramp. Cody high-fives fans, autographs a Funko Pop, then gets more pyro before stepping into the ring. The fans cheer while Cody grabs a mic, and the fans cheer more while he holds up the belt. Cody then hears the fans chant his name before he says he’d normally ask what we want to talk about. But he’s pretty sure we all want to talk about the same thing. “Timing is a funny thing in life, just as it is in this industry.

“We’re on the cusp of changing everything, not just about WWE, not just about sports entertainment, but about pro-wrestling itself. It starts tonight, SmackDown going three hours here in Phoenix.” The fans cheer that! And of course on Monday, Raw goes to Netflix. And Cody’s excitement… It is tempered ever so slightly, because as much as Cody wants to be involved, he can only be involved so much because he is not cleared to wrestle. The fans boo that news, but Cody says he is not cleared to wrestle because of Kevin Owens. The fans boo more, but Cody says Nick Aldis and management are concerned Cody’s here at all.

But at the Royal Rumble, just a month away, we hang the championship up high, Cody and Kevin will compete in a ladder match! But wait! DREW MCINTYRE is here! The fans are torn as the Scottish Terminator slowly makes his way out, eyes locked on Cody. McIntyre steps into the ring, Cody’s eyes locked on him. McIntyre looks Cody over, and then HUGS him!? The fans are confused and Cody is perplexed. McIntyre then backs up to grab himself a mic, and he says, “I’m not here to hurt you, Cody. I’m here to help you. You’re not on my list. We go way back. And since no one else is gonna look you in the eye and tell you this…

“You’re about to screw up your entire life’s work. Everything you’ve done, all the dues you’ve paid to finally make it to the top of WWE, be the centerpiece, you talked about us moving into the future. This is the greatest generation in the history of the company! Not the 80s, the New Generation, the Attitude Era, brother. Right now is the best wrestlers we have ever had in ring, and if you look at the numbers, the best of all time by all fire, and you’re the freakin’ quarterback of it all!” The fans do cheer that. But McIntyre says again that Cody’s gonna screw it up. Aldis is breathing down Cody’s neck and refuses to clear him.

McIntyre knows that feeling, where you want to fight but management screws you over and holds you back. There’s a guy running around with a replica title, acting like one of these idiot fans in the crowd, pretending to be a world champion! The fans are a bit torn but McIntyre says they’re promoting Kevin like he’s world champion at these live events! And Cody’s neck is hanging by a thread. McIntyre wanted to come out here to tell Cody that this gimmick, this portal, whatever it is, McIntyre sees Cody needs a friend. And maybe- Cody has McIntyre stop there. Cody knows McIntyre is using the Transfer Window and all, saying he wants to help Cody.

Exactly! McIntyre always tells the truth. Oh, always? Okay, well, resident truthteller, Cody will tell the truth back to you. Cody would like to say that years ago, Cody watched McIntyre from afar as he carried WWE through its darkest time, that they are kindred spirits for having to leave WWE, scrape themselves up off the mat, put themselves back together, make something of themselves, come back and #FinishTheStory. Cody would like to say that the past few years, McIntyre has not only become a beast in this ring but on the microphone. Cody would like to say that, but… Cody doesn’t believe McIntyre.

The fans are torn again but Cody says he does not believe McIntyre, and he can feel the tension. It is certainly going to devolve, so let’s just cut to it! McIntyre wants to throw hands on Cody? He wants a shot at the title? They might as well do it here and now! McIntyre, come and get it! McIntyre says as similar as they are, Cody will see the truth one day. As soon as they’re gone, the fans will forget them. It doesn’t matter what the fans think, though! McIntyre is telling the truth: he is NOT here to hurt Cody, he is here to help him! The two circle but McIntyre goes to leave. McIntyre says one more thing: Watch your back.

AND KEVIN RUSHES IN!! The fans boo, McIntyre set Cody up for The Prizefighter! Kevin stomps away on Cody while McIntyre walks away! Cody gets up to fire back! The fans fire up as Cody turns things around, and he stomps away on Kevin! Kevin hits back, producers and security rush out here, but Phoenix wants to “LET THEM FIGHT! LET THEM FIGHT!” Cody gets free and he LEAPS onto Kevin! The fans fire up but the producers and refs pull Cody back! Kevin is dragged from the ring but he wants more of Cody, too! Will these two even make it to the Royal Rumble? Or will this all fall apart on the Road to WrestleMania?

Andrade VS Shinsuke Nakamura!

El Idolo was cheated by the King of Strong Style and is looking for revenge. Will Andrade start off his New Year with a win over the United States Champion? Or will Nakamura have yet another trick up his sleeve?

The bell rings and Nakamura runs up to kick and fire off knees! Nakamura whips, Andrade KICKS back, and then runs up to RANA! Nakamura tumbles out to the apron but Andrade DROPKICKS him to the floor! Andrade goes to the corner and climbs up, to then ASAI MOONSAULT! Direct hit on Nakamura and the fans fire up! Andrade stands tall while SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Andrade puts Nakamura in the ring, storms up to the corner and climbs again, for a CROSSBODY! Cover, TWO! Andrade keeps cool and he paces around Nakamura. Andrade puts Nakamura in the corner, CHOPS, then whips corner to corner. Nakamura reverses, Andrade goes up and out, but Nakamura GAMANGIRIS him down! Andrade falls to the floor and Nakamura goes out the side. Nakamura storms up on Andrade, SMACKS him off the desk, and then puts him on the apron. Nakamura refreshes the count, then runs to KNEE LIFT! Andrade sputters into the ring, and Nakamura rolls in after him.

Nakamura drops a KNEE on Andrade’s head! Cover, TWO! Nakamura paces more, stomps Andrade around, then drags Andrade up. Nakamura suplexes and hangs Andrade out to dry! Then he AX KICKS Andrade down! Andrade writhes but Nakamura covers, TWO! Another cover, TWO! Nakamura paces around Andrade, stomps him again, but Andrade rises to CHOP! And CHOP! Nakamura KICKS Andrade down! Nakamura paces, then he clamps on a chinlock. Nakamura also traps an arm but Andrade endures. Andrade fights up, fires body shots, and SmackDown returns to single picture as Andrade fires more shots!

The fans rally as Andrade ROCKS Nakamura, ELBOWS him down, then blocks a kick! DRAGON SCREW! Nakamura hurries to his feet, but Andrade ducks ‘n’ dodges to CLOBBER Nakamura! The fans fire up and Andrade kips up! Andrade flexes, then he fires the fans up with “SI! SI! SI!” Andrade runs corner to corner, but into a KNEE! Nakamura kicks, Andrade ducks, but not the HEEL KICK! Both men are down, the fans rally up, and both men rise. Nakamura goes after Andrade with a forearm shot! Andrade gives it back! The forearms go back and forth, the fans behind Andrade. Andrade dodges the strike fest to CHOP!

Nakamura goes to a corner. Andrade whips corner to corner. Nakamura reverses, runs up, and he blocks boots! He puts Andrade int he ropes, KICK and SLIDING GERMAN! Nakamura then climbs up while Andrade flounders. Nakamura aims and FLYING KNEES! Cover, TWO! Andrade survives and Nakamura seethes. Nakamura goes back to the corner, and he rips away a buckle pad! Just like their previous showdown! But Andrade DROPKICKS Nakamura into the buckles! And then CIEN SHADOWS! Cover, TWO!! Nakamura survives and Andrade is shocked! The fans rally up while Andrade looks back at the buckle.

Andrade checks the buckle, and he climbs up. MOONSAULT DOUBLE! Cover, TWO!! Nakamura survives again and Andrade is beside himself! Andrade drags Nakamura up, “This is Awesome!” as he underhooks. But Nakamura slips out, SPIN ELBOW! And then INVERTED EPXLODER! Andrade lands out! Boot feint to ELBOW!! Cover, TWO?!? Nakamura barely gets his arm up and Phoenix can’t believe it! Andrade drags Nakamura up, puts him on the top rope, then CHOPS! Andrade climbs up after Nakamura, but Nakamura fights the suplex! Nakamura then slips out to the apron, DDT on the post!!

Andrade is a ragdoll as Nakamura throws him into the ring! Nakamura aims from the corner, Andrade sits up, into the KINSHASA!! Cover, Nakamura wins!

Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura, by pinfall

The sinister samurai is merciless, but here comes LA Knight! The fans erupt as the Mega Star storms the ring! Knight dodges Nakamura to then CLOBBER him! Knight rains down fists, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH!” Knight stands Nakamura up, for the B F- NO, Nakamura gets free of the BFT and runs away! Knight grabs a mic to shout, “YEAH! YEAH! YEAH! You steal my title and things go crazy! One way or another, I’m coming to collect on what’ sowed to me. Cuz what goes around comes around, and what going around ain’t the flu! It ain’t the cold! It’s me stomping your ass to dust every time you turn around, with EVERYBODY saying… “L! A! KNIGHT!” “YEAH!!”

The Knight calls out the King of Strong Style, but will he be able to dethrone Nakamura when they go another round?

Apollo Crews is confronted by Pretty Deadly.

Kit Wilson & Elton Prince say, “Well, well, well…” If it isn’t Apollo Stooge! And if there’s one thing Pretty Deadly learned on the mean streets of London, it’s that snitches do indeed be getting stitches. Oh, yeah? That’s so funny! Because everyone knew you two were lying! Los Garza didn’t attack The Street Profits, that was DIY! But Apollo gets it. They think they’re slick. Because in steps Legado Del Fantasma. Santos Escobar tells Pretty Deadly are “Pretty Little Liars.” If you’re gonna talk about the familia, at least do that to their face. Elton says they’d never lie! Kit says it’s ridiculous!

Escobar says what’s ridiculous is that Pretty Deadly thought their lies wouldn’t come back around and beat the crap out of them! Kit says chill, tranquilo! They’re all friends here. No need for threats. THREATS? No, no threats. And then Los Garza jumps Pretty Deadly! They have Kit & Elton up against road cases! Aldis and producers storm in to stop this. Legado leaves, Kit & Elton say they should be reprimanded! But Aldis says they should come with him to have a nice little chat. Pretty Deadly’s got some explaining to do. What will the consequences for perjury be in the WWE?

SmackDown returns and…

Aldis finishes chewing Pretty Deadly out for saying it was Los Garza while Apollo says it was DIY. And then DIY storms in to say no no no, timeout! Why’s Aldis taking the words of Apollo Stooge and not of these two fine gentlemen? Why? Because Aldis’ eyes are connected to his brain. Aldis doesn’t know what the four of them are up to, but they’re all on thin ice. Aldis leaves, and Ciampa says they know what Pretty Deadly is up to. Pretty Deadly want their title shot, and there are only two guys who can make that happen, and that’s DIY. Aldis clearly hates Pretty Deadly, but DIY loves them! They’re pretty and they’re deadly!

DIY says Pretty Deadly would be great #1 contenders. But there’s a big title match with MCMG. And so listen: It is very important DIY leaves here the tag team champions. Good talk. #YesBoy. DIY heads out and they seem to have Pretty Deadly fooled. Will Kit & Elton help themselves by helping Gargano & Ciampa out with tonight’s big title rematch?

Mia Yim VS Piper Niven w/ Chelsea Green!

Michin knows the Hot Mess only got away with the gold thanks to “Lil’ Miss P,” so now it’s time to take out the sidekick! Will Mia clear the path back to the Women’s United States Championship? Or will Piper make sure things stay #RedWhite&Green?

The bell rings and Mia fires off! Piper picks Mia up and RAMS her into the corner! Piper fires body shots and forearms, but lets off as the ref counts. Mia BOOTS Piper, then goes up to RANA! Piper tumbles, Mia runs, and then Mia RANAS again! Piper tumbles out of the ring, Chelsea panics, but Mia then FLYING RANAS! Piper tumbles on the floor and Mia is all fired up! Mia tells Chelsea to back up, then she runs up on Piper. Piper dodges, then scoops her, SCRAPBUSTER to the floor! Piper & Chelsea salute while SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns and Mia whips but Piper reverses. Mia wheelbarrows to BULLDOG! The fans fire up and Mia hurries to cover, TWO! Chelsea is relieved, but Mia brings Piper up. Piper says no to the Sole Food and RAMS Mia into the corner! Piper runs to SPLASH and sit Mia down. Chelsea cheers Piper on and Piper says, “O Champion, My Champion!” Piper runs corner to corner, but Mia moves! CANNONBALL hits buckles! Piper is stuck so Mia CANNONBALLS Piper! Mia twerks at Chelsea and Chelsea is furious! Piper runs up, Mia dodges to kick and PELE! Cover, TWO! Mia hurries to the apron but Chelsea mouths off!

Mia kicks at Chelsea and Chelsea runs away. Mia goes up to leap, but Piper gets under! Mia comes back, wrenches, but still no feet! Piper wrenches to MICHINOKU PIPER! Cover, TWO?!? Piper is furious and she stomps away on Mia! Piper drags Mia to a drop zone then goes up. Chelsea says this is it! VADER BOMB gets boots! And now EAT DA FEET! Cover, MIA WINS!

Winner: Mia Yim, by pinfall

Chelsea is furious but Mia says she’s got next! Will Mia make sure she’s the Head Baddie In Charge once and for all?

Naomi speaks.

“My glow isn’t just a look. It’s a reminder that in all of us, there’s a light. We’re beautiful and powerful, and can change the world just by being in it. I want to be a living reminder that we don’t have to experience life the way we’ve been told. That we will not be pushed around by the fear in our minds, but led by the dreams in our hearts. I do the impossible: I change the environment around me. I am The Glow, I am Naomi.” Will everyone #FeelTheGlow when Naomi goes for gold? Or will the Irresistible Force still be on top in the New Year?

Paul Heyman is here!

“Ladies and gentlemen… My name is Paul Heyman. Tonight, way before Monday, I wanted to come out here on the record to set the record straight.” The fans cheer that! Heyman says on Monday, we find out one thing: Who is the REAL Tribal Chief? The fans already chant “O T C! O T C!” Heyman says to be transparent about it, Roman Reigns & Paul Heyman trained Solo Sikoa to be the next in line. Roman Reigns & Heyman taught Solo how to become the Tribal Chief. Roman Reigns & Heyman prepared Solo for the moment in time in the future, when Roman Reigns was ready to step down as Head of the Table, head of the family, the head of ALL the WWE!

And then, Solo would reign as Tribal Chief. Then at WrestleMania, what happens? After 10 years of lusting for revenge, Roman could not turn down that lust and finally got his revenge on Seth Rollins. But Cody Rhodes, to his credit, took advantage of that to get the 1-2-3 on Roman Reigns. And that is where Solo Sikoa seized the moment. That is where Solo stole the ula fala from Roman Reigns! That twisted SOB did not earn the ula fala, he STOLE it!! He got rid of Jimmy, he got rid of The Wise Man, and he got rid of everyone else because he knew no sane man would ACKNOWLEDGE Solo!

So what did Solo do? He went out and got himself this band of filthy animals that don’t even belong in pro-wrestling! Tama Tonga, not welcome in the US! Tonga Loa, not welcome in the US! Jacob Fatu, who is not even welcome outside of the US prison system! Solo got these renegades because none of the OGs were going to ACKNOWELDGE Solo. On Monday Night Raw, live on Netflix, Tribal Combat, no rules except that there must be a winner and a loser! The winner of the match, and Heyman absolutely promises us that Our Tribal Chief, the Only Tribal Chief, will be Roman… Reigns…! The fans fire up, but wait… Here comes Solo!

Solo Sikoa, ula fala around his neck, glares up at the ring. Solo makes his way down to the ring, and yet Heyman has not left out the side. The fans boo Solo as he steps closer to Heyman. Heyman says he just wanted Solo to know he’s about 10 seconds away from pissing in his pants. Why? Because the last time they did this, when Heyman told Solo was NOT his Tribal Chief, Solo had Heyman put through a table in front of his children and the entire world at Madison Square Garden. And if Heyman even blinks at Solo wrong, Jacob Fatu & Tama Tonga will come out here and the same thing will happen tonight in Phoenix.

The fans chant “YEET! YEET! YEET!” but Solo holds out his hand. Heyman rolls his eyes and says, “C’mon…!” Solo is waiting, so Heyman reluctantly hands over the mic. The fans chant, “SOLO SUCKS! SOLO SUCKS!” Solo tells Phoenix, Arizona, “ACKNOWLEGE ME.” The fans boo instead. Solo says it is finally time for Heyman to acknowledge the truth. Heyman owes CM Punk a favor, right? Yes… Then how about this? Solo will owe Heyman a favor. This Monday, Solo needs someone to hold the ula fala during Tribal Combat. Solo needs someone who is trustworthy, who loves the family. Someone who would never disrespect the family, nor disrespect the ula fala.

So this Monday, IF Roman Reigns beats Solo Sikoa, and that’s if… Heyman may put the ula fala around Roman’s neck and Solo will acknowledge him as Tribal Chief. The fans cheer that! But Solo continues that when he beats Roman, which he will, Heyman knows it, Solo knows it, and everyone else knows it. So when Solo wins, Heyman will put the ula fala around Solo’s neck, and everyone will know that Solo owns the ula fala and that he owns Heyman. Heyman will become Solo’s Wise Man forever! Then Roman will have no choice but to finally… ACKNOWLEDGE SOLO. Solo hands the mic back while the fans chant “O T C! O T C!”

Heyman drops the mic, exits the ring, but the deal has been struck. The UNDISPUTED Tribal Chief will be determined this Monday, which side of the Bloodline: Civil War will finally win out?

Motor City Machine Guns speak.

Chris Sabin says being betrayed by someone you considered a friend sucks. And what makes it worse is when it’s also someone you’ve known for years. Someone who has been up and down the same roads as you, experienced all the same things as you, just to make it here! Everything they’ve been through, thrown away, and for what? The WWE Tag Team Championships! Alex Shelley says he taught Gargano everything he knows about how to fight to the top of this business, but Gargano just taught MCMG something, too. They realized that everywhere they go, there will be wolves in sheep’s clothing. And Gargano & Ciampa sure aren’t sheep.

DIY may have forgotten who MCMG are, one of the most revolutionary tag teams in the business, and THE best tag team in WWE. It took them three matches to win the titles, and it’ll take just one to win them back. MCMG are taking aim, will they be able to shoot down the traitorous Gargano & Ciampa? We find out next!

WWE Tag Team Championships: #DIY VS Motor City Machine Guns!

SmackDown returns and MCMG makes their entrance. The introductions are made, the belts are raised, and we see who are truly the best in WWE today!

The teams sort out and Ciampa starts against Sabin. They tie up, Ciampa kicks low then stomps a hand! Ciampa wrenches Sabin to a wristlock but Sabin fights up. Sabin rolls, wrenches, rolls and kips up. Sabin steps over, then arm-drags! And arm-drags again! Sabin has Ciampa in the cording hold, but Ciampa fights up. Ciampa JAWBREAKERS free, then runs up, but Sabin dodges. Tag to Shelley and MCMG DOUBLE LARIAT! Gargano gets in. he sends Sabin into Shelley but Shelley sends Sabin back. Sabin back ELBOWS Gargano, then Shelley BOOTS Gargano! The fans fire up and Shelley brings Ciampa around.

Shelley wrenches and CLUBS an arm, then wrenches and CLUBS it again. Shelley wrenches and CLUBS Ciampa again, then tags Sabin. MCMG double wrench and DOUBLE LARIAT! They crisscross Ciampa, whip him, and DOUBLE ELBOW him down! The fans fire up and Sabin brings Ciampa around. Sabin whips, Ciampa ducks ‘n’ dodges. Ciampa grabs ropes, Gargano tags in, but Sabin dodges Ciampa. Sabin LARIATS Ciampa up and out, kicks Gargano, then TOSSES Gargano out! The fans fire up and Shelley opens the way! Sabin DIVES and takes down DIY! The fans fire up with MCMG as SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Sabin fist-bumps fans, then he puts Gargano back in. Sabin stalks Gargano but Gargano bails out. DIY regroups out there but Sabin pursues Gargano. Gargano leads Sabin on a cat ‘n’ mouse then tags in Ciampa. Sabin fights off Gargano but gets caught in WILLOW’S BELL! Ciampa applauds and pats himself on the back before he stomps Sabin. Ciampa taunts the fans, then he brings Sabin up. Ciampa CHOPS Sabin down to the corner, then SMACKS him off Gargano’s boots! Gargano CHOKES Sabin on ropes, but he lets off as the ref counts. Gargano soaks up the heat, then he brings Sabin up.

Sabin fires body shots but Gargano CLUBS him down. Gargano brings Sabin over to CHOP in the corner. Tag to Ciampa and Ciampa stomps a mudhole in him. Ciampa drags Sabin up, brings him around, and he feeds Sabin- NO, Sabin blocks Gargano’s boots to DECK him! Sabin ELBOWS Ciampa away, BOOTS him, then runs up. Ciampa spins Sabin, but Sabin slips out of the full nelson! Victory roll, but Sabin uses it to head for the corner! But Gargano YANKS Shelley down! No tag there, and Ciampa drags Sabin into a REVERSE DDT! Cover, TWO! Ciampa is annoyed but he clamps onto Sabin with a chinlock.

Sabin endures, even as Ciampa grinds him into the mat. Ciampa pushes up, it’s almost a Bully Choke, but Sabin endures all the same. Sabin fights up, and SmackDown returns to single picture as the fans rally. Sabin fires body shots, but Ciampa knee slow! Ciampa whips Sabin but Sabin DROPKICKS Gargano! Sabin ELBOWS Ciampa again, then runs up, but Ciampa dodges to ripcord and HAYMAKER! Ciampa whips, BOOTS, and runs, but Sabin GAMANGIRIS! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Sabin and Ciampa both crawl, hot tags to Gargano and Shelley! The fans fire up as Shelley fires off hands!

Shelley whips, Gargano reverses, but Shelley CLOBBERS him! Shelley DECKS Ciampa, wrenches Gargano and hits a NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Gargano is still in this but Shelley looms over him. Shelley drags Gargano up but Ciampa is there! Shelley takes a swing but gets caught! Gargano runs up but Shelley BOOTS him away! Shelley DECKS Ciampa, then TOSSES Gargano out. Tag to Sabin and MCMG both run, to DOUBLE DROPKICK! DIY is sent into the desk! Then MCMG DOUBLE PLANCHA! All four men are down but Shelley clutches a leg. The fans rally up as Shelley hobbles back to the corner.

Sabin puts Gargano in, then stands on his hand. Tag to Shelley, but Gargano fires forearms and CHOPS on MCMG! Gargano CHOPS and ROCKS both men, then runs, but into a JUMP KNEE! ENZIGIRI! LOW KNEE! LEG SWEEP! DOUBLE SUPERKICK! Cover, Ciampa breaks it! Sabin and Ciampa trade shots, the fans rally for MCMG. The shots go faster and faster, back and forth but then Ciampa CHOPS! ROLLING- CHOP from Sabin! Then a SOBAT!  Shelley adds a SUPERKICK! But then Gargano SUPERKICKS Shelley! Ciampa dropkicks Sabin’s legs out! Gargano SUPERKICKS Sabin for good measure!

All four men are down again and the fans fire up! “This is Awesome!” as Gargano crawls, tag to Ciampa! Ciampa CHOPS Shelley, CHOPS him again, then CHOPS again! But Shelley CHOPS, CHOPS and CHOPS! Ciampa headlocks, Sabin tags in as Shelley powers up and out. MCMG atomic drop, dropkick leges out, and DREAM SEQUENCE! The fans fire up while Ciampa goes to a corner. Sabin & Shelley coordinate, BOOT ENZIGIRI COMBO in the corner! Tag back to Shelley and Sabin turns Ciampa. But PRETTY DEADLY runs out here! The fans boo, but Ciampa sends Sabin into Shelley! Ciampa TOSSES Sabin, then PSYCHO KNEE for Shelley!

Tag to Gargano and DIY gets Shelley up! Underhooks, SUPERKICK FAIRYTALE ENDING!! Cover, TWO?!? Shelley survives and shocks DIY! And now Los Garza runs out here! Angel & Berto chase Kit & Elton into the crowd, they all brawl, and Shelley rolls Gargano! TWO, but into the BORDER CITY STRETCH!! Sabin intercepts Ciampa for a roll and STF!! DIY endures submissions but Pretty Deadly jumps into the ring! Los Garza jump them, they all fall onto the submissions! DISQUALIFICATION!!

Winners: DIY, by disqualification (still WWE Tag Team Champions)

The fans boo and MCMG are upset! Pretty Deadly do the dirty work for DIY! They’re not “Do It Yourself” anymore, it’s more like “Do Whatever It Takes” or something! Gargano & Ciampa gloat, will they come through on the promise to give Kit & Elton their shot?

Nia Jax talks with Candice LeRae.

The Irresistible Force is almost about to have her match and where is Tiffany? She’s nowhere to be found. Candice says Tiff might just be upset about what Nia said last week. Nia rolls her eyes, but Candice says Tiff is just sensitive. But Candice is here for her. And Tiff just overcomplicates things. Remember what happened with the tag team titles? Yes, Nia does. After Nia beats Naomi again, maybe she and Candice get another shot at the tag titles. Candice just has to make sure Bianca stays out of this. Candice says, “Anything you need.” The Poison Pixie hurries off, will she be the perfect fairy godmother for The Queen of the Ring?

Sami Zayn is backstage.

And he crosses paths with Carmelo Hayes. Melo says last week, Sami knows Melo had him beat. If Sami’s boy, Braun Strowman, hadn’t gotten involved, it would’ve been Nothing But Net. Uh, no, as Sami remembers, Melo was about two seconds away from catching a Helluva Kick and ran away. Melo says no, he was getting the game plan ready. But hey, Sami and his boy, Strowman, can get this work. They can run it back any time he wants. But then The Usos walk over and asks if there’s a problem. Melo says nah, he’s got this. This is light work here. But then Melo sees who is asking, and Jimmy again asks, “Do we got a problem?”

Sami says no, guys, it’s fine. Melo was just telling Sami that the next time they run it back, Sami was gonna “get this work.” Isn’t that right? C’mon, Melo, tell him more. Melo leaves and The Usos tell H1M not to be scared. But good timing, Uce. They got a big fight to get to. Sami just has to get in gear, they’ll run this back and get on the same page. Jey says sure, comb his hair even. Sami heads to the locker room, the Usos say this is big. So is Monday Night Raw, Netflix and Tribal Combat! They are ready for it! But then they bump into Kevin Owens… Jey tells Kevin to watch where he’s going. Kevin smirks and says Jey needs to watch his back.

The Usos look around, but they shrug that off. Will Jimmy, Jey & Sami represent for The OG Bloodline and slow Solo down? Or will they have to worry about the Scottish Terminator still being in the building?

Nick Aldis catches up with Cody Rhodes.

The SmackDown General Manager is there as The American Nightmare is about to head out. Aldis asks if Cody is okay. Cody says he is, but Aldis isn’t so sure. Because see, Cody’s the one who talked Aldis into the ladder match idea, and now Cody is just hellbent on not making it to the Rumble! Put aside the hatred for Kevin to think about the bigger picture, both Cody’s career and the WWE’s future. Because otherwise, Aldis will have to do it for him. Cody respects the fact Aldis is thinking about both the company’s future and Cody’s future. Not sure if anyone’s ever told Aldis, but Aldis is a great boss.

However, while Aldis is the boss, but Cody’s the champ. This is the most important week in WWE’s history, and as much as Aldis has the right to keep Cody on the shelf until the Rumble, as much as Aldis has the right to put Cody on every media appearance until the cows come home, Cody has the right to call his shot! If McIntyre wants to be part of SmackDown, then Aldis should go back there and tell him he is welcome! That he has Cody’s attention! And to remind of what happens to those who got Cody’s attention in the past.

Cody did say last year that when one story ends, another begins, so here’s the story now: If Cody sees Kevin, or even someone who looks like Kevin, Cody drops them on SIGHT. Cody heads out, will he make sure it’s Kevin watching his back from now until February 1st?

WWE Women’s Championship: Nia Jax w/ Candice LeRae VS Naomi w/ Bianca Belair!

It has been quite the back and forth between the Irresistible Force and The Glow, and it could all come to an end with the New Year! Will Naomi become a DOUBLE Champion? Or will Nia turn the tables and earn another shot at the Women’s Tag Team titles?

SmackDown returns as Nia makes her entrance, Candice by her side. The introductions are made, Nia’s title is raised, and we see if it stays Nia’s title!

The bell rings and Nia runs up! Naomi dodges, then DROPKICKS! Nia ends up in a corner. Naomi runs up to fire forearms, then a HOOK KICK! Naomi brings Nia out but Nia shoves her to a corner. Nia then runs up, but Naomi dodges! Nia hits buckles, Naomi KICKS Nia in the legs again and again! But Nia HEADBUTTS Naomi down! The fans boo but Nia soaks up the heat. Nia SMACKS Naomi off the mat, drags her up, then TOSSES her to the corner! Nia runs up but Naomi kicks low! Naomi whips, but Nia reverses and Naomi is back in the corner! Nia SPLASHES Naomi, then whips her corner to corner.

Nia runs up but Naomi drop toeholds! Nina hits buckles and Naomi KICKS her! And KICKS her! But Nia blocks a kick to THROW Naomi down! The fans boo but Nia dusts off the orange hair from Naomi. Nia storms up but Naomi RAMS into Nia! Naomi slingshots but into a HEADBUTT! Naomi falls to the floor, Candice and Bianca watch each other closely, and Nia soaks up more heat as SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Naomi sunset flips! Nia stays up, but Naomi avoids the hip drop! Naomi KNEES Nia, then runs, but into a scoop! Nia swings Naomi for a SIDE SLAM! Cover, TWO! Naomi survives and Bianca coaches her up, but Nia kicks Naomi around. Nia shoves Naomi, talks trash, but Naomi kicks from below! Naomi throws hands, but Nia scoops and SLAMS! Then ELBOW DROP! Cover, TWO! Naomi stays in this but Nia grins. Nia clamps on a chinlock and she squeezes tight. Fans rally for Naomi, and some even cheer for Tiffy Time, but Nia shakes her head. Naomi fights up and the fans rally up more!

But Nia POSTS Naomi! The fans boo but Nia soaks up the heat. Nia goes to the apron, and HIP ATTACKS Naomi against post! High stack, TWO!! Naomi survives and Nia grows frustrated. Bianca coaches Naomi but Nia slaps Naomi around. Nia taunts the fans, drags Naomi up, and she reels Naomi in. But Naomi fights the bomb! Naomi slips around to victory roll, TWO!! Nia escapes but Naomi runs up, only for Nia to LARIAT! Nia drags Naomi to the drop zone and climbs up! The fans boo, but Naomi gets up! She KICKS the legs out, KICKS Nia in the Tree of Woe, then WOE STOMPS her down!

The fans fire up as Naomi rises, SPLIT LEG DROP! Cover, TWO!! Nia survives but Naomi is too tired to be upset. The fans rally and Naomi brings Nia up, only for Nia to shove her to a corner. Nia runs up, Naomi dodges, and Nia POSTS herself! The fans fire up and Naomi drags Nia up. HOTSHOT! Nia flops back down, then Naomi runs to DIVE! Direct hit and Nia is sent into barriers! Naomi KICKS Nia, gets her in the ring, and then runs up gain to AX HANDLE! Nia stays up so Naomi AX HANDLES again! Nia is still up so Naomi springboards, FLYING CHUCK! Nia is still on her feet!? She swings, misses, and Naomi manages a SAMOAN DROP!! Cover, TWO!!

Nia survives Naomi’s insane feat of strength and no one can believe it! The fans rally up more and Naomi drags Nia to a drop zone. Naomi goes up, up, but Nia CLUBS her on the back! Nia wags her finger, then scoops Naomi, to put her in the Tree of Woe! Nia runs, and she HIP ATTACKS Naomi in the stomach! Nia then shoves Naomi down, goes up the corner, and she soaks up heat before the SUPER LEG DROP!! Cover, TWO!?!? Naomi survives and shocks everyone! The fans rally while Candice and Nia are furious! Nia shakes her head, storms up on Naomi, and she CLUBS away on Naomi’s back.

Nia drags Naomi to a corner, goes up, but Naomi YANKS Nia back down! Naomi stomps Nia, she climbs up again, and Naomi leaps, TORNADO DDT! Cover, TWO! Nia survives and Naomi is beside herself! Bianca is frustrated on Naomi’s behalf, “This is Awesome!” as Naomi reaches for Nia. Nia goes to the apron but Naomi brings her in the ropes! Naomi fires knee after knee, and then tucks her in! HEAT SEEKER! Cover, TWO!!! Nia survives again and Naomi is pulling out her hair while SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns once again and Nia DECKS Naomi! Nia whips Naomi to a corner, runs up, but Naomi BOOTS her! Naomi goes up to BLOCKBUSTER! Cover, TWO!! Nia survives and Naomi is again too tired to be upset. Naomi hurries to a corner, climbs up, but Nia runs up! Naomi leaps over, comes back, Samoan- CRUCIFIX DRIVER!! Cover, TWO!!! Nia survives that counter, but Naomi clamps on body scissors! MODIFIED BUTTERFLY CLUTCH! Candice gets on the apron but Bianca YANKS her down! Bianca TOSSES Candice, beats her down, and the fans are loving it! Nia breaks free of Naomi’s grip, and she goes out to CLOBBER Bianca!

The fans boo but Nia sends Bianca into steel steps! Nia storms back into the ring and she drags Naomi to a drop zone. Nia goes up, but Naomi hurries to ROUNDHOUSE! Naomi climbs to get Nia and she fires hands! The fans fire up but Nia scoops Naomi! SUPER POWER- JUDO THROW!! That same counter from months ago, and wait! “IT’s TIFFY TIME~!” Tiffany brings her own ref, as well as the briefcase, right to ringside! Candice argues with the main ref, but Tiff says yes, it’s time! But then she SHOVES the ref!? Because then she takes aim to CLOBBER Naomi!! Tiff was part of the plan all along!? A-NIA-LATOR!! Cover, Nia wins!!

Winner: Nia Jax, by pinfall (still WWE Women’s Champion)

Talk about a false alarm! Tiffy Time was just about her part to play in this screw job! Naomi loses, but now Nia goes after Bianca! Nia HEADBUTTS Bianca, then she climbs up the corner. But now Tiff CLOBBERS Nia?!? Candice is shocked, but Tiff kicks and POSTS Candice!! The fans are losing it as Tiff goes out to get a ref! Bianca sees her chance, and she gives Nia a KISS OF DEATH!!! Tiff then YANKS Bianca out of the ring to TOSS her over the desk!! Tiff has Phoenix erupting as she says NOW she’s cashing in!! The ref takes the briefcase, and Tiff hurries into the ring!

WWE Women’s Championship Money in the Bank Cash-In: Nia Jax VS Tiffany Stratton!

The announcement is made, the fans are going wild, and bell rings! PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER!!! Cover, TIFFY WINS!!!

Winner: Tiffany Stratton, by pinfall (NEW WWE Women’s Champion)

She waited, waited, and even endured being treated like a lackey, but now Miss Money in the Bank becomes THE Women’s Champion! Will all of WWE have to get on Tiffy Time?

Solo Sikoa’s Bloodline heads to gorilla.

Jacob Fatu already shouts, “I LOVE you, Solo! First thing on my mind, when I open up my eyes, and realize, is I LOVE YOU, SOLO! Just in a couple seconds, I’m about to show the world what happens when you don’t acknowledge the one and only Tribal Chief. So Monday, when Solo beats Roman’s ass, 1-2-3, the whole world will ACKNOWLEDGE SOLO!” The Bloodline makes their entrance, but will they tear down The OGs and leave Roman without a tribe to lead?

Backstage interview with LA Knight.

The Mega Star finishes talking with Aldis about something as Byron Saxton walks over. Byron brings up Knight going after Nakamura but Knight says he ain’t got time for that. The man called The Mega Star is here in Phoenix, and that means Nakamura has Hell to pay, and pay Hell he will. Now, surely you want to know what Aldis was talking with Knight about, so he’ll tell ya. Aldis asked Knight the same thing: Why did Knight attack Nakamura? Knight said it’s because Nakamura saw fit to blindside Knight every chance he could, take advantage while Knight’s back was turned, and then he slid right in and got a US Championship match.

Knight says monkey see, monkey do, so now when Knight sees Nakamura, Nakamura gets his head stomped in until Knight gets what he wants. Guess what? Knight just got what he wants! Because next week, SmackDown, US Championship, Nakamura VS Knight, it’s going down! And then Knight will set his sights on the Royal Rumble and taking his rightful place in the main event of WrestleMania. It’s 2025, the Knight Train is gonna roll, and anyone in the way gets smacked back to factory settings. And that’s not an insult, that’s just a fact of life, YEAH! Knight heads out, but will he take back the title? Or will he just be another victim for the King of Strong Style?

Six Man Tag: The Bloodline VS Sami Zayn & The Usos!

SmackDown returns and fans fire up as Jey leads Jimmy & Sami through the concourse! Jey asks production to please hit his music! YEET! The OGs make their way down through the bleachers, the entire crowd bouncing as they “YEET! YEET!” Phoenix doesn’t wanna stop, they continue to “YEET! YEET! YEET!” with The Usos! The teams finally sort out, and #BigJim steps up for his big in-ring return. But wait, Jacob & Tama won’t back down, so now all six men just stare down. And then it pops off! Phoenix fires up as the fists fly! The ref reprimands but this isn’t a match yet! The OGs THROW Solo and his Bloodline out!

The fans fire up as Solo’s side regroups, and Solo is furious! The OG dare someone to bring it but SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again and Jimmy wrenches Jacob. Tag to Jey and he climbs up to AX HANDLE the arm! Jacob backs away to ropes, then resets with Jey. Solo says stand down, and Jacob obeys. Jacob tags in Tama, and the fans all copy the “Yeyeyeyeyeyeyeh” that Tama does. Tama and Jey circle, tie up, and Tama knees low! Tama CLUBS Jey down, HEADBUTTS him to a corner, and then throws down hands. The fans boo, the ref counts, and Tama backs off at 4. Tama mocks the “YEET,” then goes back to Jey. Tama whips, Jey reverses and Tama hits buckles hard! Tama crawls, Jey drags him over, tag to Sami.

Sami drops an elbow and the fans fire up! Sami drags Tama up to bump him off buckles. Sami goes up, takes aim, and AX HANDLES! The fans cheer on “SAMI USO!” while he brings Tama up. Sami wrenches, tags Jimmy, and they mug Tama. Jimmy whips Tama to ropes, but Tama reverses. Jimmy grabs ropes, BOOTS Tama, but Solo HOTSHOTS Jimmy down! The fans boo and Jey protests, but “lil’ brother” gets away with one. The fans chant, “Solo Sucks!” but Tama tags Solo in. Solo sits Jimmy up to rain down fists, then talks trash. Solo even calls out Roman, saying this will happen to him on Monday!

Solo HEADBUTTS Jimmy again and again, then lets off to soak up heat. Solo drags Jimmy up, HEADBUTTS him again, then talks more trash. Solo kicks Jimmy to ropes, then CHOKES him! The ref counts, Solo lets off at 4, but Tama gets a cheap shot in! The fans boo, but Solo eggs Jimmy on. Jimmy sits up, but Solo clamps on the shoulder claws! Jimmy endures, the fans boo, but Solo digs his fingers into the trapezius. Jimmy still fights up and he reaches out. The fans rally, Jimmy reaches up and he JAWBREAKERS free! Hot tag to Sami! The fans fire up as Sami fires hands on Solo, then whips.

Solo reverses but Sami ducks ‘n’ dodges to LARIAT! Solo stays up so Sami keeps moving, and he LARIATS again! Solo SMACKS Sami, then whips him. Sami goes up and over, then LARIATS! Solo goes down and the fans fire up again! Sami has Solo in a corner and he climbs up. Sami rains down fists, and he goes to TEN! Tama runs up, Sami ELBOWS him down! Sami ELBOWS Solo, goes up and leaps, but into the URENAGE! Solo snarls but he has control again as SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Solo slowly stands, and he tags in Jacob. Jacob stomps Sami, then pushes Sami down for a FALLING HEADBUTT! And another FALLING HEADBUTT! Then a jump and FALLING HEADBUTT! Solo stalks Sami to ropes, CHOKES him against the ropes, but the ref counts. Jacob lets off to stare down The Usos. Sami drags himself up but Jacob whips him to the corner! Sami hits buckles hard, and Jacob stalks Sami. Sami reaches out but Jacob BITES Sami’s hand! Jacob brings Sami up, tag to Sama, snap suplex to a slingshot SENTON! Tama taunts The Usos with “YEYEYEYEYEYEH!” then he goes back to Sami.

Tama ROCKS Sami, fires off body shots, and a DROPKICK! Sami tumbles out of the ring and to the floor, only for Tama to FOLEY ELBOW DROP! Tama drags Sami up, brings him to the desk, but Sami blocks the bump to SMACK Tama off the desk! Sami hurries into the ring, but Tama hurries to stop him! Tag to Solo and Solo stomps Sami! Solo taunts Sami, then clamps on those claws! Sami endures the hand digging into his shoulder, fights up slowly, and SmackDown returns to single picture. The fans rally, Sami fires body shots, but Solo shoves Sami, SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO! The Usos coach Sami but Solo stays between them.

Solo pushes Sami around, but Sami stands to CHOP! Sami leans on Solo, CHOPS again, but Solo DECKS Sami! Solo drags Sami over, tags Tama, and Tama rains down fists! The fans boo, but Tama doesn’t stop, he just eggs Sami on! Sami throws hands, Tama keeps raining down shots, and then Tama HAMMERS Sami down! Tag to Jacob and he looms over Sami. Sami slowly sits up, Jacob eggs him on. Jacob runs corner to corner and back again for a HIP ATTACK! Jacob is all geeked up but Sami sits up. Jacob UPPERCUTS Sami down! Jacob clamps onto Sami to tag Solo, and they mug Sami with HEADBUTTS!

Solo taunts Sami, HEADBUTTS him again, and Sami wobbles. Solo whips, Sami KICKS back! The fans fire up and Sami gets around to BLUE THUNDER BOMB! Both men are down and the fans fire up! Sami and Solo crawl, hot tags to Tama and Jey! The fans fire up as Main Event Jey rallies on The Bloodline! Big haymakers for Tama! “YEET! YEET! YEET!” Jey pops, locks, takes off the shirt, and he DECKS Tama! Then mule kick, UPPERCUT, and SAMOAN- NO, Tama slips free! Tama shoves Jey away, Jimmy tags in! Jey UPPERCUTS Tama, then baits him back in. Tama hits buckles, The Usos DOUBLE GIRI!

Jimmy tags Jey back in, then he RAMS Tama! Jey runs up to forearm SMASH! Then they DOUBLE ELBOW, and DOUBLE ELBOW DROP! The fans fire up but here comes Jacob! The Usos dodge, and they DOUBLE LARIAT Jacob up and out! Jimmy ends up going with Jacob, Tama runs up to roll Jey! TWO! Jey dodges Tama to POP-UP NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO!! Tama survives and Jey is frustrated, but then Jacob sends Jimmy into steel steps! And barriers! Sami CLOBBERS Jacob! The fans fire up but then Solo POSTS Sami! Solo goes to the apron but Jey UPPERCUTS him down! Tama whips Jey into a corner, then jumps up! VENOM DDT! Cover, TWO!!

The fans fire up and Tama is frustrated. Tama crawls, hot tag to Jacob! The Samoan Werewolf storms up on Jey, and he mocks the fans for cheering Jey. Jacob says Jey should’ve joined their side! He should’ve ACKNOWLEDGED SOLO! Jacob stands Jey up, but Jey SUPERKICKS Jacob! Jacob ends up in a corner, Jey hurries to hot tag Sami! Sami then tags Jimmy, and The Usos coordinate. “UCE! OH! UCE! OH!” Jey runs up to HIP ATTACK! Jimmy HIP ATTACKS! Sami HIP ATTACKS! He really is an Honorary Uce! Jey & Sami BLAST Solo & Tama, then do their secret handshake. They then DOUBLE DIVE! Down go Tama & Solo!

Jimmy climbs, the fans fire up, USO SPLASH on Jacob!! Cover, TWO?!? Jacob survives and Jimmy is stunned! Jimmy drags Jacob up, but Jacob SUPERKICKS Jimmy! Now Jacob goes up, and he SAMOAN SPLASHES!! But then the BEST MOONSAULT EVER!! Cover, SAMI BREAKS IT! The fans are thunderous as Sami saves the day! Jacob storms back up and he TOSSES Sami out! Jacob goes back for Jimmy, reels him in, but Jimmy RAMS Jacob to the corner! Tag to Jey and the Usos mug Jacob! The Usos snapmare Jacob, then DOUBLE SUPERKICK! Jacob is down, Jey covers, TWO!! Jacob survives again!

And wait, here comes Drew McIntyre! The Scottish Terminator wants after Jey, but Jacob has him first! Jey dodges Jacob, then DIVES onto Drew! Jey hurries back to the ring, climbs up a corner, and he leaps, but Jacob gets under! Jey keeps moving, but into a POP-UP SAMOAN DROP! Cover, TWO!! Jey survives and the fans fire up again! Jacob snarls, drags Jey over to the corner, and he sits Jey up. Solo wants the tag so Jacob obliges. “I LOVE YOU, SOLO~!” Jacob runs so he can HIP- NO, Jey got away! Solo hurries in but Jey SUPERKICKS him back out! Jey dodges Jacob to then SPEAR! Jey hurries to a corner, but he doesn’t know Solo’s legal!

USO SPLASH on Jacob, but SAMOAN SPIKE!! Solo covers Jey, Solo’s Bloodline wins!

Winners: The Bloodline, by pinfall

The misdirection works out, and Solo is again adorned with the ula fala. Monday Night Raw awaits, who will the world ACKNOWLEDGE as the one and only Tribal Chief?

My Thoughts:

A great SmackDown to kick off 2025, but also to move us into three hours as the runtime. It maybe dragged right at the middle, the 90 minute mark or so, but I feel like they hadn’t scheduled a lot for the sake of everything having room to breathe. Especially when the tag title match apparently needed a change, a shame for Profits, but a good adjustment. Pretty Deadly and Los Garza are getting in on things, too, with Legado as a whole perhaps making a slow turn to Face given they got framed by the bigger Heels, Kit & Elton. That’s still a Fatal 4 Way or even bigger tag match in the making, maybe something for Saturday Night’s Main Event on January 25th.

The Women’s US Championship might even be on the line at the next SNME with how Mia got a great win over Piper and is headed for a rematch with Chelsea. A little surprised the Men’s US Championship match is next week but that’ll be great stuff, especially if they let it go a long time to fill the three hours. I just don’t know the chances of Knight winning when Nakamura’s newest persona is still rather fresh. Cody had a great promo with McIntyre, and while McIntyre might be moving to SmackDown, I don’t see Cody staying. It’s felt like Netflix wants all the big parts of the WWE, so wouldn’t they want THE Undisputed WWE Champion?

Great attack by Kevin, as set up by McIntyre, and Kevin also had a good interaction with The Usos. Turns out his warning was right, because McIntyre does show up during the main event. That was a great Six Man Tag, but between McIntyre’s distraction and apparently Jey not seeing that last tag, it makes sense that Solo’s team would win. Between this and that great promo from Heyman, Solo surely loses the Tribal Combat match so that Roman is back on top. Though, something about that almost feels like the boring choice because to the credit of McIntyre, Roman has not changed his ways, something needs to make him do that. I still think it should be Heyman’s favor to CM Punk being Heyman advocates for Punk over Roman.

And of course, great stuff with the WWE Women’s Championship. Great promo from Naomi to hype things up a bit more, and a really good promo from Nia and Candice to plant the seeds. It did make me think Tiffany was cashing in, but we still got a great match from Nia VS Naomi first. Then Tiffany helping Nia win just to swerve her, that was some genius stuff. It means more to Tiff personally to take that title off Nia, who was bullying her since day one, never appreciated anything Tiff genuinely did to help Nia, and then started leaving Tiff behind to have Candice as her new crony. Great stuff for Tiff, and I would hope they follow through with Tiff still showing up in LA for NXT New Year’s Evil like she promised to watch Roxanne Perez VS Giulia. It could even be a way to tease Tiff VS Roxie on main roster to continue their feud from their NXT days.

My Score: 9/10