Full Breakdown
WWE SmackDown Highlights from Dublin: August 22, 2025
8/23/2025, 6:29:42 AM
Major Matches and Storylines
WWE SmackDown aired live from the 3Arena in Dublin, Ireland, on August 22, 2025, marking a significant event as it was the first televised WWE show in the country. The episode featured several key matches and storylines leading up to the upcoming Clash in Paris on August 31.
The show opened with Becky Lynch, who stirred controversy by criticizing the Irish crowd, claiming they did not appreciate her contributions to wrestling. This prompted a confrontation with WWE Women's Champion Tiffany Stratton and Nia Jax, leading to a main event tag team match featuring Lynch and Jax against Stratton and Jade Cargill.
In the tag team division, the duo of Melo Don’t Miz (Carmelo Hayes and The Miz) faced off against the Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley and Chris Sabin). Despite some miscommunication, Melo Don’t Miz secured a victory, with The Miz stealing the pinfall after Hayes executed a lung blower on Sabin. This win positions them for a number one contender's match next week.
The Street Profits (Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins) also competed, defeating MFT (JC Mateo and Tonga Loa) with a frog splash from Ford. This victory sets them up for a future title shot against the Wyatt Sicks.
Key Events and Outcomes
Charlotte Flair faced Piper Niven in a singles match, where Niven emerged victorious with assistance from Chelsea Green, who distracted the referee. This loss for Flair continues to build tension in the women's division, particularly with her ongoing feud with Green and the Secret Hervice.
In a notable segment, John Cena made his final appearance in Dublin as part of his retirement tour. He engaged in a heated exchange with Logan Paul, who interrupted Cena's promo. The confrontation escalated, culminating in Cena delivering an Attitude Adjustment to Paul after a verbal exchange that highlighted their upcoming match at Clash in Paris.
Official Statements & Responses
WWE General Manager Nick Aldis informed Cena that he had just heard from Brock Lesnar, but before any details could be revealed, Logan Paul attacked Cena, leaving the audience in suspense about Lesnar's message.
Criticism & Opposition
Becky Lynch's promo drew mixed reactions from the crowd, with many fans expressing their discontent. This backlash highlights the challenges wrestlers face in maintaining fan support, especially when engaging in controversial storylines.
What's Next
Looking ahead, WWE SmackDown will continue its European tour with a show in Lyon, France, on August 29, 2025. Key matches announced include Sami Zayn challenging Solo Sikoa for the United States Championship and a number one contender's match between Melo Don’t Miz and the Street Profits.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Logan Paul isn’t an outsider, he’s a disappointment.” — John Cena
- “You use us as some branding opportunity to buy another Pokemon card!” — John Cena
This episode of SmackDown not only set the stage for the upcoming Clash in Paris but also showcased the evolving dynamics within WWE's roster, particularly in the tag team and women's divisions.
