One more chance for the Elimination Chamber!

Elimination Chamber is just 8 days away! That means tonight is the last chance for SmackDown superstars to qualify and head for Chicago!

OFFICIAL RESULTS

• Tama Tonga w/ MFT VS Ilja Dragunov; Tama wins.
• Women’s Elimination Chamber Qualifier Triple Threat: Charlotte Flair VS Nia Jax VS Kiana James; Kiana wins and advances.
• Oba Femi VS Kit Wilson; Oba wins.
• Tiffany Stratton VS Alba Fyre w/ Chelsea Green; Tiffany wins.
• Men’s Elimination Chamber Qualifier Triple Threat: Damian Priest VS Carmelo Hayes VS Trick Williams; Trick wins and advances.
• Rhea Ripley VS Giulia; Rhea wins.
• Randy Orton VS Aleister Black w/ Zelina Vega; Aleister wins.

PLAY BY PLAY

WWE mourns the loss of Kerwin Silfies.

Cody Rhodes is here!

Fort Lauderdale fires up for the American Nightmare as he makes his entrance. The fans sing along with the song, “WHOA~ OH~!” and we get the pyro before Cody high-fives fans along the ramp. Cody then goes to the ring for the second “WHOA~ OH~!” and pyro! The fans sing for Cody while he gets the mic, and he asks Fort Lauderdale, “Whaddya wanna talk about?” The fans cheer, but then JACOB FATU interrupts! The fans fire up again as the Samoan Werewolf heads right to the ring. Fatu also grabs a mic and he stares Cody down as he says, “Let’s keep it 100. You wouldn’t even be out here speaking, talking about Elimination Chamber, if it wasn’t for Drew.”

Fatu says he had Cody AND Sami beat last week, walking out with the dub. Fatu knows it, and Cody knows it! The fans are torn, but Fatu says his concern isn’t about Cody right now. Let’s double back: Fatu’s concern is about Drew McIntyre! Fatu says let’s keep it 100! DREW! Bring your punk ass out here so he can dog walk your ass all over Fort Lauderdale! Fatu and Cody both wait, but Nick Aldis shows up instead. The SmackDown General Manager knows Fatu is upset, as he has every right to be. But Aldis knew this would happen, so he gave Drew the night off. Not something he wanted to do since Drew is the WWE Champion, but he had to.

Elimination Chamber is right around the corner, WrestleMania is on the horizon, so we cannot take unnecessary risks. This is Cody’s time, so Fatu and Aldis can leave the ring to Cody, go to the office, and discuss Fatu taking on Drew. The fans boo that, and Fatu asks what Aldis is getting at. But then DREW IS HERE ANYWAY!? Drew is up in the skybox, the fans cheer, and Drew appreciates being given the night off, but he’s the champ so eh does what he wants. And number two, he loves SmackDown! So much so, he bought himself this suite just to watch to show! And Jacob… Drew heard you running your mouth, and he’s right here!

All gas, no brakes? More like all bark, no bite! What’s Fatu gonna do? Fatu storms outta the ring! And he CLOBBERS security guards left and right, and into the desk! And over the barriers! He almost hits Aldis before he CLOBBERS another guard! Aldis tells Fatu to calm it down! Think about it: Chamber, WrestleMania. Does Fatu wanna miss out on those? Don’t give him no choice! Security, go get Drew outta here! Fatu says he NEEDS this fight. Fatu then shoves another guard out of the way before leaving for the back. The fans boo, but when and where will the Samoan Werewolf get after the Soc

Drew says the whole damn world’s against him cuz he’s the champ! They’re jealous of Drew cuz he’s the champ! Everybody wants to be Drew, cuz he’s the champ! Cody tells Drew that the whole world is NOT after Drew cuz he’s the champ! It’s cuz Drew is an A-HOLE! Cody gets the last word here, but will Cody get his own revenge through Elimination Chamber? Or will someone else take his spot in fighting the Undisputed WWE Champion?

Carmelo Hayes and Ilja Dragunov cross paths backstage.

The Mad Russian tells H1M that he is the United States Champion, he IS H1M! And when he shoots, he don’t miss! Ilja puts his hand on the back of Melo’s neck to tell him that he WILL win that qualifier, walk into Elimination Chamber, and go on to WrestleMania! Melo takes Ilja’s hand away and Ilja apologizes for getting worked up. Melo says he doesn’t need someone telling him how to be H1M. Save that energy for Tama Tonga tonight. Melo will do what he do, cuz #MeloDon’tMiss. Ilja says yes, that is true, but so is everything he told Melo. One thing that won’t happen is Melo walking into WrestleMania as United States Champion.

There’s still a fight owed between Melo and Ilja, but Ilja will take care of Tama first. Melo says go do that. The Czar is all fired up in Fort Lauderdale, but will he burn down the Good Bad Guy? Or will MFT be that much closer to the United States Championship?

Jacob Fatu and Nick Aldis talk backstage.

Fatu says he respects Aldis, but this won’t keep happening. Aldis asks Fatu somewhat rhetorically, how long did it take Fatu to get to the WWE? How long did it take Aldis? It took patience. Aldis will give him Drew McIntyre, but he has to wait. Fatu says okay, but he won’t wait much longer. Fatu leaves for the night, and Aldis has to loosen his tie. Will the Samoan Werewolf and Scottish Terminator have it out before WrestleMania?

Tama Tonga w/ MFT VS Ilja Dragunov!

SmackDown returns as MFT enters together, all to support Tama. Solo brings the Wyatt lantern with him as he leads the way to the ring. The bell rings, and Ilja runs up to BOOT Tama! The fans fire up with Ilja and he shoves Tama to the corner for CHOP after CHOP after CHOP! The fans “WOO~” with every CHOP but the ref counts. Ilja backs off, but Tama DECKS him! Tama rains down fists, then talks some trash before he hammers away in the corner! Tama stomps a mudhole in but the ref counts. Tama backs off and Ilja stands up. Ilja blocks a shot, and he HEADBUTTS again and again in return! Tama and Ilja fires shots while the fans rally!

Ilja CHOPS, Tama KNEES low, then Tama whips. Ilja hits buckles hard then falls back in the corner. Tama snarls while he paces, then he runs corner to corner, only for Ilja to KNEE him away! And JUMP KICK him down! The fans cheer as Ilja now runs corner to corner, and he KNEES Tama low! Ilja keeps moving, he ducks the counter attack, and he GERMAN SUPLEXES Tama! Tama ends up back in a corner, and Ilja runs to BOOT WASH him outta the ring! The fans fire up with Ilja while Tama seethes, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Tama shakes it off and goes to the apron. Ilja goes after Tama but Tama HOTSHOTS him away! Tama hurries back in, but Ilja waistlocks again! Tama fires elbows until he’s free, then he shoves Ilja. Ilja goes to the ropes, CONSTANT- DROPKICK from Tama! Ilja drops to the floor but Tama goes out the side. Tama uses the steel steps to launch for the LARIAT! Ilja is down, the ring count climbs, but Tama takes his time soaking up heat. Tama drags Ilja up, puts him in the ring, then rains down fists! The fans rally for Ilja while SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns, still in picture in picture, as Tama THROWS Ilja off the top! Tama then hurries to get Ilja back up, dragon sleeper and TONGAN TWIST! Cover, TWO! Ilja toughs it out while SmackDown returns to single picture. Tama soaks up the heat while Solo applauds from his armchair. Tama drags Ilja up, talks trash, but Ilja SLAPS him! Tama SLAPS, Ilja SLAPS, and the fans fire up for the SLAP fight! Ilja rebounds to BOOT Tama! Tama rebounds to ROCK Ilja! Ilja returns to LARIAT, then he dodges Tama! But Tama dodges Ilja! DOUBLE LARIATS collide and the fans fire up while both men are down!

The fans rally as both men rise, and both men snarl. Ilja has a bloody nose but he doesn’t care! Ilja CHOPS, Tama CHOPS, and repeat! The fans fire up as the shots turn into forearms, then Iljaj SPIN CHOPS, then CHOPS the leg! Ilja runs from the corner, but Tama avoids the boot! Dragon sleeper, but Ilja snapmares free! And deadlift GERMAN SUPLEXES! Ilja holds on and he shouts, “This is fun!” The fans rally up, “One More Time!” Ilja indeed drags Tama back up for another GERMAN SUPLEX! The fans fire up and Solo shouts to get up while Tama sputters. Ilja drags Tama up, but Tama fights with elbows!

Tama switches, shoves, but CONSTANTINE SPECIAL! The fans fire up again while Ilja crawls to a cover, TWO! Ilja snarls while he crawls to the apron. Ilja goes up the corner but Loa distracts him! Tama runs up, Ilja leaps over! Ilja swings, but into the FLATLINER! Tama covers, TWO! Ilja is tougher than that but Tama keeps on him. Tama drags Ilja up, talks some trash, then underhooks. But Ilja fights the lift to power his way around! Ilja then lifts for the ATOMIC DUNK! Ilja hurries up the corner, but Loa distracts him again! Tama storms up, but Ilja fires HEADBUTTS! Tama falls, Ilja rises, and Ilja SUPER SENTONS!!

Tama sputters, the fans fire up, and Ilja feeds off the energy! JC Mateo gets on the apron but Ilja DECKS him! Tama rolls Ilja up with tights! TWO! SUPER PUNCH! But Ilja rebounds with the ENZIGIRI! Ilja reels Tama in, but Loa gets on the apron! Ilja lets Tama go, but the enzigiri misses! CUTTHROAT ELBOW!! Cover, Tama wins!!

Winner: Tama Tonga, by pinfall

Give the hockey assists to MFT, they made sure Tama had the opening to score the game winner on Ilja! MFT storms into the ring and Solo gets a mic. “You thought I was playing, huh? Oh, yeah, quiet down! You thought that I was playing?! Well, I ain’t! This is My Family Tree! This is MY show! And this is what’s going to happen from now on! I got the tag titles! I’m coming for every-” ILJA JUMPS SOLO! MFT mugs Ilja in return, and the fans boo as Ilja is fed to the guzel! Talla Tonga hits the GIANT CHOKE SLAM! Solo is pissed, he wants his own! But Matt Cardona rushes out here! Talla BOOTS him down, then JC sends Cardona into barriers!

Apollo Crew sis here, he dodges Loa to DECK him! But Talla CLOBBERS Crew! Solo says get on them, but then the lights go down! And we all know who’s here! The Wyatts have a message on the tron! Uncle Howdy tells Solo, “It’s clear you use your family as a crutch so that you’re still standing. If you’re the shining light, then it’s time you show everyone that you can stand on your own. The next time I come down to that ring, I will be alone. I will expose all the insecurities that you have hidden from the fireflies. The only question is… Will you show up?” Howdy laughs into the night, having issued his challenge. Will the Would-be Tribal Chief accept?

Nick Aldis finds Drew McIntyre backstage.

The GM says, “Well, if it isn’t Mr. Do What I Want. Well, whaddya wanna do now, Drew?” Drew says relax, he’s just having fun. He is sure Aldis cracked a smile. Aldis assures Drew, he is NOT having fun. Elimination Chamber is around the corner, then WrestleMania after that, and it’s chaos every week, all centered around Drew. Aldis gave Drew the night off, but what does he do? Drew buys a luxury a box. Points for originality but Drew is crossing a line. Aldis tells Drew for free: Keep testing him, and he’ll show Drew what he can really do. Drew says Aldis needs to relax. Drew will do Aldis a favor and leave right now. Just relax.

Drew claims he’s not a liar, so will he really let SmackDown go on as is? Or will he still find a way to do his own thing?

Backstage interview with Randy Orton.

Byron Saxton is with The Viper and says in order to challenge Drew at WrestleMania, he has to win Elimination Chamber first. How does Orton feel about the competition he’s going to face, which now includes one of his closest friends in Cody Rhodes? Orton says everybody in the Elimination Chamber is most certainly on edge. We saw what happened, the champ just got ejected from the arena. But when talking about his friend, Cody Rhodes- Zelina Vega interrupts, “Oh, Randy! It’s almost as if we predicted this. You and Cody Rhodes, I mean, you know that there’s only one road left for you to take.”

Aleister Black steps in and says there was a time when someone like Aleister, or for that matter, the entire locker room, could not be able to get this close to Orton. That’s because they’d wake up with the worst headache they’ve ever experienced, because there was one thing they feared more than the RKO. And Aleister wonders… Where is that man? See, Aleister thinks we should poke around in Orton’s head a little bit. Orton says he knows what Aleister is doing. But the only version of Orton he needs to kick Aleister’s ass is the one he’s talking to now. So Orton will talk to Aldis. Aleister can ditch the suit, put on his gear, and see Orton in the ring.

Orton leaves, but Aleister says that while Orton thinks “it” is buried deep down, Aleister is the shovel that will dig it back up. Is the Dark Father going to make Orton #FadeToBlack? Or will he regret angering the Apex Predator?

Backstage interview with Nia Jax & Lash Legend.

SmackDown returns as Byron Saxton is now with the Irresistible Force & Bougie Bully, but then Nia tells him it is now the Irresistible Forces, plural. He works here, he should know that. He was getting to that… But he was going to ask- Nia says they don’t have time for that. This is the busiest time of the year in WWE, especially for the biggest superstars, and tonight, Nia has her Triple Threat qualifier for Elimination Chamber. And after Nia wins that, then she and Lash will also have their WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship rematch against Rhea & Iyo. Byron says yes, that was made earlier today, so-

Lash tells Byron that they are not fazed by this, Byron. They’re coming for it all! And if there is any doubt that these two run the division, just know that all the doubt will be erased at WrestleMania. Lash & Nia snap snap then head out, but will they have everything they want and more on this Road to WrestleMania?

Jade Cargill is here!

The Storm is in Fort Lauderdale, and she heads to the ring with her WWE Women’s Championship around her waist. The fans cheer, and Jade gets the mic to say, “See, I’m not gone tell y’all again: I defend my title on my time.” The fans boo that, but Jade says Jordynne Grace tried her best, but her best just wasn’t good enough. Now everyone’s so bold backstage, so loud online, but when they step to her, they all fold! Liv, Jade knows you’re watching and making your decision this Monday night in Atlanta. Lucky for Jade, that’s where she resides, so she’ll come hear that decision face to face.

Whether it’s Liv who chooses her, or if it’s whoever comes out of Elimination Chamber, from Charlotte Flair to Iyo Sky, Alexa Bliss, Tiffany Stratton, Nia Jax, or Rhea Ripley… At the end of the day, come WrestleMania, Jade is still coming out THE WWE Women’s Champion, because she is still #ThatB*tch! The fans are fired up, but who will end up Jaded in Las Vegas? But as Jade makes her way back up the ramp, Charlotte makes her way out! The fans “WOO~” as Queen stares down Storm, then heads to the ring. Jade follows Charlotte to make sure she gets the message, but Charlotte just gives her a “WOO~!”

Refs hurry out here to calm Jade down and have her move on. But will Charlotte be moving on from tonight to the Elimination Chamber in Chicago? Or will the numbers spell disaster for her in Fort Lauderdale?

Women’s Elimination Chamber Qualifier Triple Threat: Charlotte Flair VS Nia Jax VS Kiana James!

SmackDown returns as Miss Management makes her entrance, leaving the OG Irresistible Force for last but not least. The bell rings and the three watch each other. The fans “WOO~” already while Charlotte and Nia talk trash. Kiana says hello, she’s here, too! Charlotte ELBOWS Kiana down, Nia puts Charlotte in the corner! Charlotte dodges Nia, gets around Kiana, but Nia runs up! Charlotte and Kiana duck, then Charlotte sends Kiana into Nia! Kiana falls, Charlotte rushes Nia, but Nia fireman’s carries Charlotte! Charlotte slips free to run, but Nia RUNS her over! Nia soaks up the heat, and Kiana joins in with talking trash.

Kiana says she and Nia should team up to beat down Charlotte. Nia is a bit surprised by the offer but says sure. And then she guzels Kiana! But Charlotte CHOP BLOCKS Nia! Kiana kicks Nia, whips Charlotte, but Charlotte reverses to bump Kiana off buckles! Charlotte then GAMANGIRIS Kiana, runs up on Nia, but Nia HEADBUTTS her down! Nia POP-UP HEADBUTTS Kiana, too! Kiana and Charlotte end up in opposite corners, so Nia says HIP ATTACK for Kiana! And then HIP ATTACK for Charlotte! HIP ATTACK and STINK FACE on Kiana! But Charlotte BOOTS Nia! Then POSTS her! Nia slumps out of the ring but Kiana CLOBBERS Charlotte while SmackDown goes to break!

SmackDown returns again as Charlotte whips Kiana corner to corner. Charlotte runs in but Kiana puts her on the apron. Charlotte ROCKS Kiana, goes up the corner, and CROSSBODIES! The fans fire up with Charlotte, and she CHOPS Nia! And CHOPS! And CHOPS Kiana, and CHOPS again! CHOP for Nia, CHOP for Kiana, repeat! Then Charlotte dodges Nia to BOOT her! Kiana runs up but Charlotte dodges her, to handspring LARIAT! The fans fire up for Charlotte and she’s feeling it! Charlotte then TOSSES Kiana, sends Nia into her, then CHOPS Nia! And CHOPS, CHOPS, CHOP! Charlotte whips, Nia reverses, but Charlotte tumbles up and out!

Charlotte BOOTS Nia, but Kiana SUPERKICKS Charlotte! But then Nia YANKS Kiana into the fireman’s carry! But Charlotte BOOTS Nia into the SAMOAN DROPH on Kiana! Both Nia and Kiana are down, but Charlotte steps on them both on her way to the corner. Charlotte goes up, up, and DOUBLE MOONSAULTS! Cover on Nia, TWO! Nia survives and Charlotte grits her teeth in frustration. The fans rally for Charlotte and she runs, but Nia pops her up! POWER- RANA! Charlotte gets moving again, but Nia pops her up! SAMOAN DROP! But Kiana fireman’s carries Nia?! SAMOAN DROP on Nia!! Cover, TWO!!

Kiana is shocked, but so are the fans over the fact she even did that! The fans cheer Kiana on as she climbs, but Charlotte BOOTS her down! Charlotte drags Kiana back up, but Kiana ROCKS Charlotte! Charlotte CHOPS Kiana! They fight up there, and go to the very top! The fans go nuts already for the SUPER DUPER SPANISH FLY!! Cover, TWO?!?! Kiana survives and now Charlotte is shocked! The fans are torn, either blaming the ref or going nuts for Kiana! Charlotte also argues with the ref, but then she drags Kiana around. Charlotte runs, but Nia trips her up! Nia then POSTS Charlotte, puts her in the ring, and storms back in!

But Kiana BOOTS Nia back out! Kiana goes out, Nia runs up, but is sent into the steps! Kiana hurries to get Charlotte, and she gives a “WOO~!” But Charlotte BOOTS Kiana away from the Figure Four! POP-UP POWERBOMB, then the FIGURE FOUR! But Nia is back! LEG DROP on Charlotte! Nia then grins as she drags Kiana to a drop zone! Nia goes up, up, and A-NIA-LATOR!! Cover, but Charlotte DROPKICKS Nia down!! “This is Awesome!” as all three women are down! Charlotte rises first, but Nia follows. They stare down as they step to each other, and they start firing shots!

The fans fire up but Nia DECKS Charlotte! Charlotte eggs Nia on, but Nia shoves her back down! Charlotte goes to the apron, but she HOTSHOTS Nia away! Nia sputters, Charlotte climbs, and the fans rally again! But Nia ROCKS Charlotte first! Nia goes up, up, fireman’s carries, but Charlotte SUNSET FLIP POWERBOMBS!! And then the step through, FIGURE FOUR! Then FIGURE EIGHT!! Nia endures, but Kiana slips under Charlotte! She drags Charlotte into a ghost pin! KIANA WINS!!!

Winner: Kiana James, by pinfall (advances to Elimination Chamber)

Charlotte is absolutely stunned! Kiana’s genius snatches victory from the jaws of defeat, and now she’s the one joining Tiffany Stratton, Rhea Ripley, Alexa Bliss & Asuka in Chicago! Will Kiana prove you really can get ahead by fighting smarter, not harder?

Rhea & Iyo watch this backstage.

Byron Saxton asks the Women’s Tag Team Champions about what they just saw, and Rhea says they’re just “so sad” Nia didn’t win tonight. But congrats to Kiana for quite an upset. Iyo says Kiana’s partner, Giulia, won’t be so lucky. Rhea agrees, she’ll wipe the floor with Giulia tonight. Then on Monday, Iyo will go on and win her qualifier so that they’ll both be seeing Kiana in the Chamber. Byron says he knows a lot of focus is on Chamber, but isn’t that clouding their judgment for next Friday’s WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship defense? Rhea says obviously, they’re focused on Chamber, but they’re the tag champions for a reason.

Rhea and Iyo both know how to handle the pressures of WrestleMania season. Next Friday will be no different. Iyo promises that Nia & Lash don’t stand a chance. As for Elimination Chamber, may the best woman win. Rhea pats Iyo on the head and the duo heads out, but will #RheYo survive all the challenges put in front of them?

Oba Femi VS Kit Wilson!

The Ruler has already made an impression on both Raw and SmackDown, but all “The Topic” sees is another big, strong, TOXIC superstar! Will Kit prove he is the cure WWE needs? Or will this “real man” suffer a real Fall From Grace?

The bell rings and Kit grabs a mic! Kit tells Oba that he feels since last time, Oba’s done a lot of work and has grown. So from Feminist to Femi-nist, Kit wants to read Oba a poem. Kit brings his notebook to the ring, opens it up, and says this is titled, “An Ode to Oba Femi.” Oba raises an eyebrow, but Kit begins, “Oba Femi, forgive my doubt. I now see the greatness that people talk about. You’re impressive, incredible, born to reign! With all these people chanting your name!” The fans indeed cheer “O~BA! O~BA!” Kit continues, “Oba, I thought you were a brute. But that’s not fair. Because now, when I look in your eyes, I see a little teddy bear.”

What? Is that supposed to be a compliment? The fans chant “Teddy Bear! Teddy Bear!” Oba steps over, takes the mic, and says that was quite nice. Wasn’t it nice? The fans cheer, and Oba says he’d like another one. Kit says he only prepared that one. Oba insists, read another one. Well, it’s only his old material- READ! Kit gives in and goes to another page. Um… Again, old material, so don’t judge him. This one is titled, “Nine Things I Hate About Men.” Kit hates how they think being loud means they’re strong. He hates how they think that they are never wrong. TOXIC. He hates how they act with no shame nor regrets, always comparing the size of their “beef bayonets.”

Kit hates how they strut like a self-made king. He hates every time they step in this ring. Um, well, okay, he’s almost done… He hates their brand of masculinity. And Kit hates The Ruler, Oba “Toxicity.” Oba SNATCHES Kit, THROWS him across the ring, then CHOPS him back down! Kit sputters, Oba runs corner to corner and UPPERCUTS! And then UPPERCUT! And then he blocks Kit’s boot! Kit is already regretting that! SHOTPUT TOSS! The fans fire up for Oba as he hauls Kit back up, FALL FROM GRACE!! Cover, Oba wins!

Winner: Oba Femi, by pinfall

Kit may need to turn the page on his way of thinking before it gets him hurt. As for Oba, will no one and nothing stop him from being The Ruler of ALL the WWE?

Nick Aldis sees the crate.

So no one has any idea what’s in there? No, sir. R-Truth walks in and says that is a major award in there. What? 02/28/26, Elimination Chamber. Yes, and? Truth says that has to be an Elimination Chamber award. Truth’s won many of them! Best Musical Performance, Shocker of the Year, and even a Grammy. No, wait, doesn’t Truth mean a Slammy? Truth’s never heard of those. Aldis says that aside, this crate needs to go back to Raw for Pearce to deal with. The staff gets on that, and Priest walks in. Priest and Aldis shake hands and Aldis asks if he’s ready for his big match tonight. Both Truth and Priest answer, “Yep.”

Truth tells Priest that only one of them can go to WrestleMania, dawg. What’s Truth talking about? Truth asks Aldis if he wants to tell Priest. Aldis says Truth he is NOT in the qualifier, it is Priest. Sorry. Some GM Aldis turned out to be! He’s got their balls mixed up again! Truth liked Aldis better when he was bald! Truth grumbles, more confused than usual, but Aldis says yes, Priest VS Melo VS Trick. Yes, Priest knows that, and he wanted to tell Aldis he appreciates this opportunity. Any shot at the main event of WrestleMania, Priest’s gonna take it. Just two wins away. Priest heads out, but will he be headed to Chicago?

Tiffany Stratton VS Alba Fyre w/ Chelsea Green!

While the Wrestling Barbie is already heading to Chicago, “Slaygent A” wants to avenge the Hot Mess and her broken foot! Will Alba ruin Tiff’s momentum going towards Elimination Chamber? Or will even Fort Lauderdale be on #TiffyTime?

SmackDown returns as Alba makes her entrance, wheeling Chelsea out here so Chelsea can throw issues of the “Chelsea Chronicle” to the fans. Mostly cuz no one would ever pay to read it… The bell rings, Alba and Tiff tie up, and Alba arm-drags Tiff! Alba laughs at Tiff, eggs her on, and they tie up again. Tiff headlocks but Alba powers up, only for Tiff to hold on tight! Alba powers up again but Tiff uses it for a tornado takedown! Tiff grinds the headlock but Alba pulls hair! Alba powers up and out, Tiff goes up and over, then up and over again just to show off! Tiff handsprings over Alba’s dropdown and says it is Tiffy Time!

Alba runs up, but Tiff drop toeholds her onto ropes! Tiff runs to HIP ATTACK, then keeps moving, TIFFY STOMPS! Cover, TWO! Chelsea is frustrated on Alba’s behalf but Tiff runs in at the corner. Alba pops Tiff up and out, but Tiff ducks a shot to sweep the legs! Tiff then KNEE-BOARD SENTONS! Alba flounders, Tiff Oklahoma Rolls her, TWO! Alba gets up but Tiff reels her in for a backslide, TWO! Inside cradle, TWO! Alba staggers around but Tiff stays on her. Tiff whips, Alba reverses and wrenches to headlock, but then she CLAWS Tiff’s eyes! Alba kicks low, reels Tiff back in, and she hits a TORNADO DDT!

Chelsea applauds and Alba talks trash on Tiffy Time but the fans boo. Alba salutes Chelsea while SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns as Tiff runs and LARIATS Alba! And LARIATS again! Alba goes back to a corner but Tiff handsprings in, BACK ELBOW! Tiff snapmares, runs, but Alba SUPERKICKS! Alba rolls Tiff up, TWO! Tiff goes to a corner but Alba CHOPS her! Chelsea tells the fans to say goodbye to Tiff already, and Alba CHOPS Tiff again. Alba runs, but Tiff puts her on the apron! Alba GAMANGIRIS Tiff, then goes up the corner! But Tiff ROCKS Alba! Tiff climbs up, the fans rally, and Tiff hits a SUPERPLEX! Roll through and FALCON ARROW! Cover, TWO!! Alba survives that double impact but the fans rally behind Tiff.

Tiff runs the ropes, cartwheels, but Tiff fights the lift to Gory Especial, GORY BOMB! Cover, TWO! Tiff survives but Chelsea tells Alba it was that close. The fans rally for Tiff but Alba brings her up. But Tiff turns that into an Alabama Lift, and ALABAMA SLAM! Tiff goes up the corner, but Alba’s already up! Alba SHOVES Tiff to the apron! The fans boo but Alba builds speed, and she DIVES into a forearm! Tiff takes Alba down, but Chelsea hops up out of her chair! Chelsea is on one good foot as she talks trash, but Tiff scares her into sitting back down! But then Alba DIVES onto Tiff after all! Chelsea cheers while Alba gets Tiff up and in.

Alba goes up the corner, salutes Chelsea again, and SWANTON BOMBS but onto knees! Tiff turns things around, and she handsprings to BACK ELBOW into knees! Alba turns thigs b ack around, then TORNADO- NO! Tiff stops the DDT, gets Alba back up, and fireman’s carries! ROLLING SENTON! Tiff goes up, up, PRETTIEST MOONSAULT EVER! Cover, Tiff wins!

Winner: Tiffany Stratton, by pinfall

Chelsea is furious, but there’s nothing she can do about that! Tiff is rolling towards Elimination Chamber, is she about to head back for the title and WrestleMania?

Cody Rhodes roams the halls.

And he comes across Sami Zayn. Cody asks Sami how he’s doing, and Sami says not good. Cody wants Sami to understand, it was bad luck at the Royal Rumble, Drew interfered with the Triple Threat, but that still could’ve gone either way. Cody says Sami has nothing to be ashamed of. Sami says yeah, he knows that. But if anyone should be ashamed of themselves, it’s Cody! Cody asks what that means. Sami says Drew gets involved in their match, Sami sees Drew beating Cody down, and Sami helps Cody. Sami tried to do right by Cody, and how does Cody repay him? He hits a Cross Rhodes to punch his ticket to Elimination Chamber.

Sami says that was a knife in the back! Cody says that’s just Sami’s perspective on this. That was all chaos! The match wasn’t over, the bell hadn’t rung, the whistle wasn’t blown. Yeah, Sami fell into Cody’s Cross Rhodes. Cody took advantage of an opportunity, but those opportunities don’t just plop in your lap. Those come to you, but Sami hasn’t take advantage of them, and that is why Sami hasn’t been WWE Champion. Cody realizes what he said and Sami says yeah, there it is. So easy to say as the Golden Boy, huh? Isn’t that right, QB1? Everything always comes up aces for Cody Rhodes! Cody got to finish his story, he was chosen. But nobody chose Sami!

Sami has been trying to finish HIS story for over ten damn YEARS! But Cody doesn’t get that, does he? No, of course not! Because Cody doesn’t know what it’s like to constantly go out there, try to do the right thing, and have it blow up in his face! Oh, CODY doesn’t know what that’s like?! Where was Sami in Germany when Cody did exactly that? Three Stages of Hell, Jacob Fatu interferes, Cody tries to do the right thing, and it cost Cody EVERYTHING! Sami can’t lecture Cody about struggles! Cody could walk Sami into the locker room, and Cody is sure Sami could beat every guy in there! It’s not Cody, it’s not the system, the only thing in Sami’s way is Sami.

Cody storms off and Sami gets mad. Trick Williams laughs as he sees this. Dang, Sami! With friends like Cody, who needs enemies? But tell you what, here’s some advice: Trick will do something tonight that Sami could not, and that’s get the job done. Let’s talk about it! Trick laughs his way out, but then Sami gets fired up and follows after Cody. Sami tells Cody… That he’s sorry. Sami is not doing great, okay? But Cody is right about everything. Cody will be WWE Champion again, just a matter of when, not if. Just this time around, Sami wants Cody to remember that he had help along the way. Cody says he doesn’t forget.

Cody pats Sami on the shoulder and heads out. Was apologizing here the right thing for Sami’s heart but the wrong thing for his career? Or can Sami still reach the top going the way he’s always gone?

Men’s Elimination Chamber Qualifier Triple Threat: Damian Priest VS Carmelo Hayes VS Trick Williams!

Just as it’s been said, this is SmackDown’s last chance for a spot in the Elimination Chamber, and all three men want that honor. Will the Archer of Infamy bring Punishment to Chicago? Will it be true that #MeloDon’tMiss? Or will they both fail to #WhoopDatTrick?

SmackDown returns as Priest makes his entrance, leaving Trick’s entrance for last but not least. The bell rings and the fans rally up. Trick then says it should be Trick Melo Gang like the old days. Melo says nah, bro, it’s every man for himself, Melo’s going to Mania. But Priest gets both their attention before he DOUBLE LARIATS them down! The fans cheer while Priest TOSSES Melo to a corner and fires shots! Priest whips Melo to ropes, but Melo KNEES Priest! Melo DROPKICKS but Priest stays up, and then Priest blocks the whip! Priest reverses to FLAPJACK Melo! Trick is back and he CLUBS Priest to a corner.

Trick CHOPS Priest, CHOPS again, then- NO, Priest blocks a chop to CHOP, CHOP, and CHOP! Melo runs in, Priest sends him into Trick! BELL CLAP for Melo, then a whip and BACK ELBOW! Priest runs to BACK ELBOW Trick, then he JUMP TACKLES Melo! FLATLINER for Trick! Priest looks to the WrestleMania sign while the fans are torn. Melo kicks Priest, runs the ropes, but Priest catches the Fade Away to a full nelson. Priest SLAMS Melo on Trick, then he DECKS Melo! Melo rebounds off ropes, into a HEADLOCK DRIVER! Cover, TWO! Melo survives dirty deeds done dirt cheap, but Trick storms up!

Priest guzels Trick, but Trick escapes the choke slam! Priest ROCKS Trick, but Melo slingshots up and over Trick! Melo dodges Priest, springboards, but Priest dodges that, so the flying lariat hits Trick! Priest KICKS, KICKS, and KICKS Melo, then ROLLING ELBOWS! Melo rebounds, LA MYSTICA! Melo then facelocks, but Priest suplexes for the BROKEN ARROW! Cover, TWO! Melo survives, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Priest is frustrated but he focuses on Melo. Priest drags Melo up, ROCKS him with a forearm, and Melo falls back against ropes. Priest goes to Trick, bumps him off buckles, then ROCKS him! Priest brings Trick around, whips him to ropes, but Trick grabs ropes. Trick then DUMPS Priest out! Melo and Trick stare down and the fans rally up. Trick and Melo circle, then Trick runs up! Melo dodges to roll Trick, TWO! Trick rolls Melo, TWO! Both men kick but both men block! They argue about letting go, and they both DECK the other! The fans applaud while Melo and Trick are down, but Priest drags Melo out! SNAKE EYES off the apron!

Priest hurries back into the ring, storms up on Trick, and ROCKS him! Priest UPPERCUTS Trick against the ropes, but shakes out his hand from that shot. Priest whips Trick, Trick dodges, and JUMPING NECKBREAKER! Cover, TWO! Melo is back to CLOBBER Trick! Melo CHOPS Trick, puts him in a corner, then climbs up to rain down fists! Melo goes to eight before Trick trips him up! Trick then whips Melo at Priest, Melo makes it a SATELLITE DDT! Trick TOSSES Melo out, then he goes for Priest. Trick stands Priest up while SmackDown returns to single picture, but Priest ROCKS Trick! Trick ROCKS Priest back! Both men BOOT!

Priest and Trick wobble before they drop to their knees. The fans rally, but Melo runs in, DOUBLE FADE AWAY DDTS! The fans fire up while Trick and Priest both bail out. Melo just FLIES out onto Priest! And he runs up to DROPKICK Trick into barriers! Melo goes up the corner and aims at Priest in the ring, FROG SPLASH! Cover, TWO! Priest survives and Melo grows frustrated, but the fans continue to rally. Melo sees Priest go back outside, so he just reloads and builds speed again! But Trick is there to LEG LARIAT! Trick fires up, the fans are with him, and Trick hits the cartwheel to RIPCORD and- NO, Melo slips free! Trick tries again, BOOKEND! Cover, TWO!

Melo survives, but Trick tells Melo he doesn’t have what it takes! Trick CHOPS Melo, then tells Melo to mind his business! Melo stands up and smirks. Melo CHOPS Trick! And CHOPS! And CHOPS! Melo whips, Trick reverses, but then Trick BLASTS Melo off the ropes! Trick knows Melo’s game too well! Priest then POUNCES Melo onto the desk! But then Trick runs up, and he FLAPJACKS Priest onto the desk! Trick puts Melo in the ring, lines up a shot, and runs, but he blocks a kick! Trick spins Melo, fireman’s carries, but Melo slips free! Melo shoves Trick away, but the SPIN KICK hits! Cover, TWO! Melo survives and the fans fire up!

“This is Awesome!” as Trick brings Melo to a corner. Trick puts Melo up top, but Melo fires hands! Trick fights back, goes up after Melo, but Priest joins in! Priest CLUBS Trick, then has Trick for the crucifix! RAZOR’S EDGE! Cover, TWO!! Trick survives, and now Melo aims! NOTHING BUT NET on Priest!! Cover, TRICK BREAKS IT! The fans fire up again while all three men are down! Melo and Trick rise first, and they go forehead to forehead. Then they go forearm for forearm! They both stand, Melo CHOPS Trick! Trick UPPERCUTS Melo! Both wobble, and Priest JUMP KICKS Melo! then JUMP KICK for Trick!

Priest KNEES Melo, ROUNDHOUSES Trick, and he runs the ropes, but into a DOUBLE BOOT! Trick Melo Gang works together after all, BOOSTED CROSSBODY! Cover, but Trick still drags Melo off! Trick covers, but Melo shoves Trick away! They’re back to throwing hands, and Melo gets the edge! But Trick clinches, only for Melo to arm-drag free this time! SUPERKICK! Cover, TWO!! Trick survives, and he ghost pins! TWO!! Both men stand, FIRST 48!! Melo hurries to a corner and he climbs back up! Trick stands, Melo leaps, but Priest intercepts with a BIG forearm! Priest drags Melo up to crucifix, but a TRICK SHOT hits!

Melo slumps to the apron while Priest staggers around, into another TRICK SHOT!! Trick covers, TRICK WINS!

Winner: Trick Williams, by pinfall (advances to Elimination Chamber)

Trick said he would and he just did, he got the job done! Trick punches his ticket to Chicago, and Raw will determine the final entrant in Atlanta. Who will be fighting for their WrestleMania moment in the Elimination Chamber?

Los Garza, Fraxiom, and many others check on “the box.”

Nathan Frazer wants Angel y Berto to shut up for a second so he can listen in through the wood. Rey Fenix says this is not a good idea either way, just leave it alone. The Motor City Machine Guns agree with Fenix. But then Candice LeRae pushes through, because she wants to show Nick Aldis that Johnny Gargano is now slumped on top of the crate! Johnny Wrestling is quite literally taking his depression to new heights. Candice tells Aldis to fix this. What? The lump on the crate? No, this is something for Candice and/or therapy to fix. Candice says Aldis has to do his job! Candice stol- gifted Axiom’s mask, and they stole it back because she wasn’t there!

Aldis says it was Axiom’s mask, so the wrong was righted. Now Jordynne Grace steps in and Aldis asks if he can help her with something. Candice says no! Grace is new here, important business is happening, wait your turn. Um, Candice is gonna have a bigger problem than the shell of her husband if she keeps talking like that to Grace. Candice says you do not insult her husband like that! Aldis has them stop arguing, and says they have frustrations they clearly want to take out. So next week, take them out on each other in a match. Does that sound crate to them? Grace smiles, and Candice tells Johnny to get down from there, they’re going home!

Candice storms off, and Aldis says Gargano’s not feeling too crate. Puns aside, but will The Poison Pixie be able to stop the Juggernaut? Or will Candice end up as crushed as Johnny Wrestling?

Jade Cargill finishes a photoshoot.

And then she spots B-Fab. So, she’s back, huh? Does she want some of this? B-Fab says no, she’s actually in line behind two others. Oh, and who’s that? Mia Yim and her kendo stick! Michin asks if Jade really forgot. Jade hurt Mia, sent her home for months, and really thought Mia was just gonna disappear? Mia steps and Jade flinches. But Jade says Mia sure can’t be that stupid. Mia says two for flinching, but Fab has her hold back. It’s better if Jade doesn’t see it coming. Mia says yeah, it’s better to bruise that ego, hurt that pride, take that title, and then Jade won’t even have to worry about WrestleMania!

Jade says whatever, then storms off. The past comes back to haunt her, but will they be able to dethrone her?

Rhea Ripley VS Giulia!

Mami said it herself that there’s a lot on RheYo’s plate, but nothing they can’t handle. However, the Beautiful Madness is just as determined to grab up all the gold she can! Women’s Tag Team Champion or Women’s United States Champion, who ends up on top?

SmackDown returns as Rhea makes her entrance. The bell rings and the fans rally up for Rhea. The two circle, tie up, and go around. Rhea powers Giulia to the corner, the ref counts, but Rhea backs off. Giulia shoves Rhea, Rhea shoves back, and repeat. They tie up again, go around, and Giulia pulls hair! The ref reprimands, Giulia backs off, then she SLAPS Rhea! The fans are torn but Rhea scowls. Rhea runs up, Giulia dodges and tilt-o-whirls, GUILLOTINE FACELOCK! Rhea endures, fights up, and she RAMS Giulia into a corner! Rhea puts Giulia up top, but the ref counts and the two separate. Rhea then SLAPS Giulia!

Giulia BOOTS Rhea, then leaps, but Rhea blocks the DDT! Rhea swings Giulia up for a stalling suplex! The fans cheer as Rhea then SLAMS Giulia down! Cover, ONE!! Giulia toughs it out but Rhea drags her around to pump handle! RIP- NO, Giulia slips free and THROWS Rhea down by her hair! Giulia SMACKS Rhea off the mat, stomps her around, then puts her in a corner. Giulia runs up to ROCK Rhea with a forearm! Giulia snapmares Rhea, goes up the corner, and MISSILE DROPKICKS her back down! Rhea ends up in the other corner and Giulia stomps a mudhole in. The ref counts as Giulia digs her foot in, but she stops at 4.

Giulia whips corner to corner, then runs up, but Rhea goes up and over! Rhea ELBOWS Giulia, runs back in, and RAMS Giulia into the corner! Rhea whips corner to corner hard, then runs up, but Giulia dodges! Rhea POSTS herself and flops to the outside! Giulia goes out to DROPKICK Rhea into the steps! Giulia stands tall while SmackDown goes to break.

SmackDown returns again as Giulia kicks Rhea around. Rhea snarls but Giulia kicks her more and more. Giulia then runs, but Rhea blocks the knee! Rhea ENZIGIRIS Giulia down! The fans fire up while both women are down! Rhea rises but Giulia follows. Rhea turns Giulia around to ROCK with a forearm! Giulia hits back! The fans rally as the forearms go back and forth! Giulia gets the edge, but Rhea blocks one to wrench and short arm LARIAT! Short arm LARIAT! Ripcord and HOOK KICK, then an ATOMIC FACEBUSTER! Rhea runs to DROPKICK Giulia down! The fans fire up for Rhea and she goes up a corner!

Rhea aims from the very top, but Giulia SMACKS her first! Giulia goes up, underhooks the arms, but Rhea fires body shots. Rhea slips underneath to then tuck Giulia in, CHEEKY NANDOS! Rhea then lifts Giulia for an Electric Chair FACEBUSTER! Cover, TWO! Rhea snarls as she drags Giulia back up. Pump handle and RIP- NO, Giulia fires elbows to fight free! Giulia ducks ‘n’ dodges, tilt-o-whirl RANA! Then ARRIVEDERCI!! Cover, TWO!! Rhea survives but Giulia is right on her! Scoop and NORTHERN- NO, Rhea fights free! HEADBUTT! Rhea pump handles again, but NIA is here?! Rhea BLASTS Nia off the apron! But Lash BOOTS from the other side!!

Winner: Rhea Ripley, by disqualification

The fans boo as the Irresistible Forces mug Rhea! But here comes Iyo! The fans fire up for the Genius as she DROPKICKS Nia! Then springboards over Lash to SHOTEI! SHOTEI! Lash shoves Iyo, but Iyo dodges! Rhea LARIATS Lash up and out! The fans fire up as RheYo holds the ring! But will they be able to hold onto the tag titles when they face Lash & Nia next week? Or will the specter of the Chamber loom too large for even Mami & The Genius?

Oba Femi is on his way out.

The Miz is there and compliments him on the impressive showing tonight. Miz has had his eyes on Oba, and Oba is a WrestleMania main event just waiting to happen. And as the locker room leader here, the man filling the void that John Cena left, it is Miz’s responsibility to get the next generation ready. Oh, really? And how is Miz going to do that? Simple, really. Miz’s three core values are Master, Inspire, Zone-In! Master the craft, inspire to be better than everybody else, and when the pressure hits, zone-in and be undeniable. Miz can show Oba the ropes inside and out of the ring to get him where he needs to be.

Oh, wow, Miz can show Oba the ropes? Then how about next week? Oba will talk to Aldis about it! Miz says awesome! But then he realizes Oba wants to talk to Aldis about a match! Miz panics and says no match! Is Miz’s fate already sealed?

Charlotte regroups with Alexa backstage.

The Queen is still stunned, and she knows what “Lexi” is going to say. Charlotte lost, take it in, take a minute to process, because she knows this is hard for Alexa. But Alexa will be okay. Alexa tells Charlotte that it’s okay for Charlotte to be upset. Charlotte says she’s not upset, her best friend is in the Elimination Chamber while Charlotte is not, and that is fine. You wanna know why she’s fine? Because Charlotte is “Famously evolved.” Lexi, charlotte is wearing studs. Do you see any diamonds? But then Kiana steps in and taunts them, asking if Alexa will be okay without Charlotte. After all, they’ve become rather codependent.

Alexa says that’s rich coming from Kiana. Kiana said she wanted Giulia to be the Triple Champion, and yet Kiana’s the one with a shot in the Chamber. Well, Kiana & Giulia don’t worry about petty things like that. They understand that this is a working relationship. Charlexa might be besties, but this is the most powerful duo on this roster. Alexa starts laughing, and tells them to prove it. Giulia immediately flies off the handle, but Kiana holds her back. Kiana ushers Giulia out while Giulia shouts in Japanese. Alexa then looks to Charlotte and Charlotte insists she’s fine. Charlotte then ushers Alexa out, but will Lil’ Miss Bliss be back in the driver’s seat on the Road to WrestleMania?

MFT regroups backstage.

Solo looks deep into the Wyatt Lantern and says he’s gonna smash Howdy next week. Now, let’s get the car and let’s get outta here. Tama says he’s gotta finish packing but he’ll catch up with them. The others exit, but Solo wants to talk with Tama. Solo says he’s very proud of Tama, congrats on the big win tonight. Tama’s been with Solo since day one and he’d never betray Solo. Solo knows Tama will be US Champion one day. But for now, they need to focus on the Wyatts, and to make sure that they never get the lantern back. Without the lantern, the Wyatts are nothing. Trust in Solo. Solo heads out, but Shinsuke Nakamura steps in.

Tama asks what he wants, and Nakamura asks if Tama is really proud of himself and how he fights. Does Tama want to be in Solo’s shadow? Solo is leading MFT into a war where Tama is just a soldier. Tama is being held back from becoming his own man. Tama says he’s always been his own man. Then prove it. Next time Tama competes, he should leave the family tree in the forest. Let’s find out what Tama Tonga is truly capable. Nakamura leaves, leaving Tama much to think about. Will the Good Bad Guy prove he can be THE guy all on his own?

Randy Orton VS Aleister Black w/ Zelina Vega!

The Viper is always ready to strike, but The Dark Father questions if that strike is lacking the same venom as before. Will Orton sharpen his edge ahead of Elimination Chamber? Or will he simply #FadeToBlack?

SmackDown returns and Orton makes his entrance. The bell rings and the fans rally behind Orton as he circles with Aleister. The two tie up, are in a headlock, but Orton headlocks. Aleister powers up and out, but Orton RUNS him over! Orton hits his pose and the fans cheer. Things speed up, Aleister drops down then hurdles over, but Orton sets up, only for Aleister to roll off his back. Orton drops down to hear those voices but Aleister sits down cross-legged! The fans cheer the intense stare down, and the two stand back up. The fans chant for “R K O!” but Orton avoids Aleister’s boot. Orton kicks low, then puts Aleister in a corner.

Orton climbs up and he rains down fists! The fans count along, and Orton goes to nine, then runs so he can LARIAT Aleister up and out for ten! The fans fire up again while Orton paces, and SmackDown goes picture in picture.

Orton goes out the side to then stalk Aleister around the way. Orton brings Aleister up, brings him to the desk, but Aleister hits first! Aleister then KICKS Orton against barriers! And BOOTS him along the way! Orton rolls into the ring, Aleister follows, but Orton kicks low! Orton TOSSES Aleister out, then follows to be back at the desk. Orton brings Aleister up, around, and DESK BACK SUPELXES! Aleister writhes but Orton refreshes the ring count. The fans clearly want that again, so Orton says okay. Orton drags Aleister back up, for another DESK BACK SUPLEX! Aleister writhes again while Orton refreshes the ring count.

Orton goes back to Aleister, brings him right back up, and hits a third DESK BACK SUPLEX! Orton flexes while the fans cheer, but the ring count starts again. Orton refreshes the count once more, and he grins as he brings Aleister up. Orton puts Aleister in the ring, covers, TWO! Aleister bails right back out, but Orton is right back on him. Aleister fires body shots again, and KICKS! And a BOOT! Orton staggers around, but he comes back to kick Aleister low! Orton hoists Aleister up, GOURD BUSTER on the barrier! Orton says he hears the count, and he brings Aleister back to the ring. Orton puts Aleister in the ring, covers again, TWO!

SmackDown returns to single picture, and the fans rally while Orton stomps Aleister’s foot! And the other foot! And then the hand! Orton stomps Aleister on the face! Orton paces, but Zelina gets on the apron! The ref reprimands but Orton grins, only for Aleister to JUMP KNEE Orton in the back! Orton tumbles out, Aleister goes to the apron, and he PENALTY KICKS Orton! Then he POSTS him! Orton staggers around, Aleister puts him back in the ring, then Aleister runs to PENALTY KICK Orton down! Cover, TWO! Aleister drags Orton around into a chinlock and squeezes tight! The fans rally as Orton endures!

Orton fights up, fights around, and fires body shots! Orton reels Aleister in, suplexes, but Aleister knees free! Aleister goes to a corner, Orton runs up, and Orton blocks a boot! But the JUMP KNEE hits! Aleister then CLOBBERS Orton! Cover, TWO! Aleister clamps onto Orton with another chinlock but the fans rally again. Orton rises, powers out of the hold, and UPPERCUTS! Aleister tumbles to the apron, and Orton hurries to get him through the ropes! The fans fire up for the DRAPING- NO, Aleister fights free! HOTSHOT! Orton sputters while Aleister rises up. Aleister BOOTS Orton and Orton staggers away. Aleister storms up to DECK Orton! Cover, ONE?!?

Zelina is furious on Aleister’s behalf, but Orton is still hurting from that last shot. Aleister stomps Orton, pushes him around, and clamps on another chinlock. The fans rally even harder as Orton again endures. Orton snarls as he rises up, and he fights around to pry the hold open! Orton hits a BIG back suplex! Both men are down but Orton grits his teeth as he sits up. The fans cheer Orton on as he rises. Orton seethes, winds up, and he LARIATS Aleister! And LARIATS! And then dodges a shot to SNAP POWERSLAM! The fans fire up as Orton is feeling it now! Zelina is worried as Orton puts Aleister back through the ropes! DRAPING DDT!

The fans cheer Orton as he hears those voices! Orton waits on Aleister to rise up, then RK- NO! Aleister powers free and bails out! The fans boo, but Orton goes right out after Aleister! But Aleister ROUNDHOUSES Orton! Orton wobbles, but then he pokes Aleister in the eyes! Orton then reels Aleister in, for DESK- NO, Aleister jumps up onto the desk! But Orton blocks a kick and he trips Aleister up! Aleister lands hard on the desk either way, and Orton again refreshes the count. The fans want it, Zelina says don’t even try it, but Orton brings Aleister around not for the back suplex, but for a DRAPING DDT to the floor!

The fans fire up but that’s rather double-edged given Orton’s bad back. Wait, someone is storming in from the crowd?! Orton puts Aleister in, and DREW MCINTYRE CLOBBERS ORTON WITH THE BELT!! The Scottish Terminator DID lie! He never intended to leave SmackDown alone! But here comes Cody Rhodes! The fans cheer as the American Nightmare scares the Scottish Terminator back out into the night! But back in the ring, Orton staggers to his feet in a daze. And into a BLACK MASS!! Cover, ALEISTER WINS!!

Winner: Aleister Black, by pinfall

Drew McIntyre made the Apex Predator his prey, and he sprung this trap to damage Orton’s chances in the Elimination Chamber! Will Drew make sure the odds are completely in his favor in Las Vegas?

My Thoughts:

A great SmackDown here, though it already felt like a go-home with Elimination Chamber next Saturday. They did great intertwining of stories tonight, as they have been doing as of late. The crate was of course here, Aldis of course says send it back to Raw, because naturally to hype this thing up as much as possible, the main roster brands are gonna play hot potato with it. But at least SmackDown was creative with it right out the gate, having the midcard all wondering what is in it, and then having Gargano magically appear on top of it. That was a fun promo for also setting up Candice VS Jordynne, aka Jordynne beating Candice to stay afloat while not competing for the title at Mania.

Oba VS Kit definitely filled up time with Kit’s poems, where one is him kissing up to Oba, and then his genuine feelings in the other. Kit of course got dominated all the same, and clearly Miz is gonna end up in about the same situation next week. That was a good promo from Miz to further explain his MIZ acronym, though. Good match from Tiffany VS Alba to not just build Tiff’s momentum but to keep things going between Tiff and Chelsea. Very good promo from Melo and Ilja, great match from Ilja VS Tama, but of course MFT helped Tama win. Good promo from Howdy to call out Solo, and that’ll be a very good 1v1.

Very good promo later where Nakamura confronts Tama. Those who know the end of Tama’s run in NJPW, he did get to prove himself as a singles champion, though only as high as the NEVER Openweight Championship, aka a midcard title. But Nakamura has a point that Tama can get away from Solo and be his own man to be US Champion without Solo. Maybe the final confrontation(s) between MFT and Wyatt Sick6 will show Tama that Nakamura is right, but who knows. Either way, whenever we finally get Melo VS Tama, that will be a show stealer.

Very good promo from Jade to call out not just Liv but literally everyone else. Her stare down with Charlotte was fun, too, but it seems they’re pushing back on Jade VS Charlotte. Great Triple Threat from Charlotte, Nia, and Kiana, and Kiana getting that surprise win was great stuff for her. We also got a very good promo from Charlexa with Giulia & Kiana, that’ll be a fun tag match past Chamber. RheYo also had a good promo before Rhea VS Giulia, which was a great match up until Lash & Nia attacked. This feels like the start back on a big tag team title match build, RheYo VS Charlexa VS Irresistible Forces VS some combination of Judgment Day, and now throw Giulia & Kiana on top of that, and that would be awesome stuff for Mania.

Very good opening promo from Cody with Fatu and Drew, and Aldis was right, that was a rather clever move for Drew to kayfabe buy himself a skybox. Good stuff with Fatu wanting to storm up there to get Drew, and then good promo from Aldis and Fatu to help explain Fatu leaving. Aldis and Drew also had a good part, and Cody had a very good promo with Sami. Things got heated, and yet you could hear the fans not wanting Sami to apologize to Cody like that. I figured Sami would, though, his character is still working to be a good person. Which is why it’ll be all the wilder when Sami does snap, either on Cody or on Trick.

Trick VS Melo VS Priest was a great Triple Threat for the men, and it makes sense for Trick to win out. Melo has the US title, Priest has had his time with the top title scene, and Trick is quickly on the rise. Trick probably doesn’t win Chamber, but it’d work if Sami makes us think he’s attacking Cody and instead goes after Trick. And while I’m still not for main events that are “impromptu” like Orton VS Aleister, that was a great main event match, and then Drew showing up again was a great surprise. Aleister needed a win, and the finish protects Orton, so this worked out great for everyone. Now, again, I would think Cody wins Elimination Chamber, but I bet it comes down to Cody and Orton to revisit their title match from last year and how only one of them could “pull the trigger” to win.

My Score: 8.8/10