Full Breakdown
WWE SmackDown: Key Returns and Rivalries Heat Up Ahead of Crown Jewel
10/11/2025, 11:44:43 AM
Major Returns and Title Matches
The October 10, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown, held at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, served as a pivotal lead-up to the Crown Jewel event. The show featured significant returns, including Shinsuke Nakamura and Tama Tonga, both of whom had been absent from WWE programming for several months. Nakamura answered Sami Zayn’s United States Championship open challenge, marking his first match since June. The contest was intense, showcasing the chemistry between the two former NXT rivals, but ended in chaos when Tama Tonga interfered, resulting in a disqualification.
Tama Tonga, who returned after a six-month hiatus due to injury, attacked Nakamura and Zayn alongside members of the MFT faction—Tonga Loa, Talla Tonga, and JC Mateo. This marked a resurgence for the MFTs, who now appear more formidable with Tonga back in the fold. Solo Sikoa, the faction's leader, later joined the fray, standing tall over the fallen competitors, signaling a renewed threat to the SmackDown roster.
Last Man Standing Match Highlights
The main event featured a Last Man Standing match between Aleister Black and Damian Priest. This brutal encounter saw both competitors utilize various weapons, including kendo sticks and steel steps. The match reached its climax when Zelina Vega, Black's wife, intervened, distracting Priest long enough for Black to launch a fireball at him. Black then executed a Black Mass, leading to Priest's inability to answer the referee's ten-count, securing Black's victory.
Official Statements & Responses
Cody Rhodes opened the show with a promo, asserting his dominance over Seth Rollins ahead of their championship match at Crown Jewel. He emphasized that Rollins has never defeated him in their previous encounters, stating, “I’m the one who you cannot beat.” This sentiment resonated with the audience, who chanted against Rollins, further intensifying the rivalry.
Criticism & Opposition
While the episode was filled with excitement, some fans expressed concerns about the chaotic nature of the matches, particularly the disqualification finish in the United States Championship match. Critics argue that such endings can detract from the significance of title defenses and the overall storytelling in WWE.
What's Next
As WWE heads into Crown Jewel, the stakes are high. The event will feature major matches, including Cody Rhodes defending his Undisputed WWE Championship against Seth Rollins and Stephanie Vaquer facing Tiffany Stratton for the Women's Championship. The fallout from SmackDown sets the stage for potential rematches and new rivalries, particularly involving the MFTs and their pursuit of dominance in the tag team division against The Wyatt Sicks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m the one who you cannot beat” — Cody Rhodes, Undisputed WWE Champion
- “That’s right, WWE Universe, Tama Tonga is back, and he is as vicious as ever.” — WWE Commentator
This episode of SmackDown not only highlighted returning superstars but also set the tone for the upcoming Crown Jewel event, promising thrilling matchups and intense rivalries.
