Wrestling fans, brace yourselves! This week’s WWE SmackDown delivered jaw-dropping moments that left the WWE Universe buzzing. From a legendary return to explosive confrontations, here’s everything you need to know—and trust us, you don’t want to miss this. But here’s where it gets controversial: Was Ilja Dragunov’s championship win a triumph of perseverance or a calculated distraction? Keep reading to find out.
This episode of WWE SmackDown picked up the pieces from the chaotic aftermath of WWE Crown Jewel in Perth, where tensions were already running high. The Wyatt Sicks stepped into the spotlight, boldly challenging the dominant MFT stable, while one superstar’s return stole the show. Ilja Dragunov, the fan-favorite known as ‘The Mad Dragon,’ made his long-awaited comeback—and he didn’t just return; he conquered. Let’s dive into the highlights.
Ilja Dragunov’s Triumphant Return and Championship Win
General Manager Nick Aldis issued an open challenge for the United States Championship, and The Miz was quick to answer, calling out the recent mistreatment of the title. However, chaos ensued when Carmelo Hayes ambushed The Miz on his way to the ring, leaving fans stunned. In a surprising twist, Ilja Dragunov was revealed as Sami Zayn’s opponent instead. Dragunov’s return was nothing short of electrifying, especially after his torn ACL injury last September during a match with Gunther, which abruptly halted his momentum on the main roster. Social media had been buzzing with rumors of his return for months, and he did not disappoint.
The match between Dragunov and Zayn was a rollercoaster of near falls and high-stakes action. Just when it seemed like Zayn had the upper hand, Solo Sikoa’s unexpected appearance threw Zayn off his game, allowing Dragunov to secure the victory. This marks Dragunov’s first WWE title since dropping the NXT Championship last spring, and fans are already speculating about what’s next for the unstoppable ‘Mad Dragon.’
Wyatt Sicks vs. MFT: A Feud in the Making
And this is the part most people miss: In the aftermath of the Dragunov-Zayn match, MFT launched a vicious attack on both superstars. Rey Fenix attempted to intervene, but the numbers game proved too much. Just as things looked dire, the lights dimmed, and the Wyatt Sicks emerged, staring down MFT in a chilling showdown. This confrontation sets the stage for a feud that could dominate the upcoming Survivor Series: WarGames. Which side will you choose?
Aleister Black and Zelina Vega: A ‘Necessary Evil’
In a captivating vignette, Aleister Black shed light on his alliance with Zelina Vega, revealing it’s been in the works for ‘months.’ Black described their partnership as a ‘necessary evil,’ a phrase that has fans debating its true meaning. ‘The venom isn’t poison. It’s salvation,’ added Vega, leaving viewers with more questions than answers. Black’s calculated moves, including his re-signing with WWE in April after his AEW contract expired in February, suggest a master plan. But is this alliance a force for good or a recipe for chaos? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Drew McIntyre vs. Cody Rhodes: A Brawl for the Ages
The main event was originally set to feature Jacob Fatu and Drew McIntyre battling for a No. 1 Contender’s shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship. However, Fatu was mysteriously attacked backstage, leaving McIntyre to demand the opportunity by default. GM Nick Aldis warned McIntyre against exploiting the situation, but a fired-up Cody Rhodes had other plans. Rhodes, clearly not in ring-ready condition, stepped up to challenge McIntyre, leading to a brutal brawl that spilled outside the ring. Rhodes’ vicious side emerged as he struck McIntyre with the title, resulting in a disqualification. Officials struggled to separate the two as the show came to a chaotic close.
Final Thoughts and Questions for You
This week’s SmackDown was a masterclass in storytelling, with returns, rivalries, and raw emotion taking center stage. But here’s the burning question: Was Ilja Dragunov’s win a well-deserved victory or a distraction from the brewing feuds? And what does the future hold for Aleister Black and Zelina Vega’s ‘necessary evil’ alliance? Share your opinions below—we want to hear from you! Stay tuned to VICE for more WWE updates as the drama continues to unfold.
