The recent episode of WWE SmackDown, featuring CM Punk's return as the new WWE Champion, was a mixed bag. While Punk's victory over Sami Zayn was a highlight, the overall show lacked the excitement and innovation that fans have come to expect. The main event, a non-title match between Trick Williams and Carmelo Hayes, was a strong performance, but the premature end due to Baron Corbin's return left a sour taste. The show's overall grade was a C, with a few notable moments and observations that provide insight into the current state of WWE.
Punk's return as champion was a welcome sight, but his segment with Cody Rhodes was underwhelming. The lack of controversy and unpredictability in Punk's character development is a concern, especially given his reputation as a fighting champion. The challenge from Rhodes, while expected, failed to generate much excitement, and the subsequent feud between Punk and Rhodes may struggle to capture the attention of viewers.
Finn Balor's match against Tama Tonga was a highlight, showcasing their chemistry and experience. The match was fast-paced and engaging, with Tama's interference adding an exciting twist. However, the lack of historical context and the potential for repetitive storytelling with Tama and Talla as a tag team is a missed opportunity. The announcers' struggle with the commercial break timing was also a notable issue.
The Jimmy Uso vs. Royce Keys match was a step in the right direction, introducing a fresh rival for The Bloodline. However, the slow pace and lack of chemistry between Uso and Keys were detractors. The most exciting part of the match was the subsequent brawl between Solo Sikoa and Jacob Fatu, which led to Fatu turning on Keys, a strange narrative twist that adds complexity to the story.
Alexa Bliss vs. Jade Cargill was a repetitive match, with the same teams and storylines being recycled. The size difference between Bliss and Cargill put Bliss in the underdog role, but the match itself was a bit sloppy. Cargill's Canadian tuxedo look was a notable fashion choice, but the match's repetitiveness and Jade's mistakes were detractors.
The main event, Trick Williams vs. Carmelo Hayes, was a strong performance, with Williams' aggressive style and Hayes' resilience. The introduction of Baron Corbin as a surprise attacker was a bold move, but the premature end to the match left a sense of incompleteness. The return of Corbin will be a talking point, but its impact will depend on how WWE utilizes him moving forward.
In conclusion, the episode of SmackDown was a mixed bag, with some strong performances and notable moments, but overall, it lacked the excitement and innovation that fans have come to expect. WWE needs to find a way to stand out in a crowded market, and the show's current state of forgetfulness is a concern. The return of Corbin and the introduction of new storylines provide opportunities for growth, but the execution will be crucial in determining the show's future success.
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