The John Report: WWE SmackDown 02/27/26 Review

This is WWE SmackDown, featuring the final build to Elimination Chamber, Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky facing Nia Jax & Lash Legend, Uncle Howdy battling Solo Sikoa, and more.

The WWE Elimination Chamber PLE is taking place on Saturday, and I have a preview up, so please check that out if you haven’t done so already.

From the KFC Yum Center in Louisville, Kentucky, this is SmackDown for episode #1384. Follow me on Twitter/X @johnreport. Let’s get to it.

Before the show came on the air, they did an injury angle with Jey Uso where he suffered a dreaded “mystery attack” backstage and was face down on the ground. A bunch of people were checking on Jey, as if none of them saw what happened. It looks like an injury angle to write Jey out of the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match on Saturday. It’s on WWE’s social media channels. Link will open in a new tab.

The show came on the air with a bunch of people in the backstage area as Jey Uso was being loaded into an ambulance. Jacob Fatu went in the ambulance with cousin Jey. Fatu told SmackDown GM Nick Aldis to find out what happened. Cody Rhodes walked up to Aldis, wondering what happened. Trick Williams and Je’Von Evans argued by Aldis.

Let’s Hear from Drew McIntyre and Elimination Chamber Participants

Drew McIntyre walked out with the Undisputed WWE Title, saying he had nothing to do with Jey Uso. Drew said he tells the truth and is guilty until proven innocent. Drew said he’s like an outlaw on his own show because he’s an outlaw champion. The screen went black for a few minutes, then came back on with Drew in the ring. Drew said he should be able to do what he wants, when he wants, so he does.

Nick Aldis walked out with security guys, saying he wants Drew to come back to his office. Nick said there are 20 guys back there gunning for him, and he wants to let them go after Drew.

Cody Rhodes walked out in his suit and said he wanted to fight right now. Drew left the ring and went into the crowd. Drew said no to that. Drew said it wouldn’t benefit him since he’s already the champion. Drew said he told Nick he was going to leave, so he’s going to leave. Cody said Drew’s championship has been spent running like a little bitch. Cody said Drew didn’t want to give any rematches, and after Elimination Chamber, Cody will get the right…and here’s Randy Orton.

Randy Orton was next in an RKO Everybody shirt. Orton said he feels bad for Jey, but his only concern is tomorrow night at Elimination Chamber, where he plans to go on to WrestleMania, whip Drew’s ass, and become a 15-time World Champion. Orton got in the ring with Cody.

Trick Williams was next to join the promo party, saying he’s the hottest thing in the business today. Trick said that’s why Bruno Mars called him out on his new album. Trick said that since they were in the KFC Center, he figured he could add something to the menu, so he brought his…and here’s Je’Von Evans, before Trick could mention his shoes.

Je’Von Evans walked past Trick and went into the ring, so they all went into the ring. Evans said he was going to win at Elimination Chamber, become the youngest World Champion, and beat Randy Orton’s record.

LA Knight was next for the Elimination Chamber promo party, saying he hears a lot of empty promises and mocking everything they were saying. Knight said they have 24 hours until Elimination Chamber and that you all belong to the megastar. Knight shouted out Drew in the crowd, saying that meant the title belonged to him. Trick cut Knight off to say, “Whoop That Trick.” The fans joined in. Knight said, “Okay,” and punched Trick.

Trick pulled Knight out of the ring, and they fought backstage. As Evans stood in the ring with Orton and Rhodes, Orton hit Evans with an RKO out of nowhere! Rhodes and Orton had a staredown afterward. Orton slowly left the ring while Rhodes stood there, thinking. Orton’s music played to end it.

Analysis: That was an explosive start to the show. It’s a good way to keep the audience tuned in to see what’s going to happen throughout the night, especially regarding Jey Uso’s spot in the Elimination Chamber Match and whether there’s going to be a replacement. They also held the pre-Elimination Chamber promo party featuring the five guys in the Elimination Chamber Match, with Jey Uso not appearing in the match. Drew McIntyre denying his involvement in attacking Jey Uso is something he’s said before, but we know heels sometimes lie, even though he claims he is not a liar. Anyway, this was one of those segments that felt very quick rather than a long, drawn-out promo. As for Evans eating an RKO from Orton, that was a nice warning shot and a way for Orton to let Rhodes know that he’s coming for him too.

Tiffany Stratton was interviewed backstage by Cathy Kelley. Stratton said she’s going to win the WWE Women’s Championship back, and it starts at Elimination Chamber. Asuka and Kairi Sane interrupted. Asuka said Tiffy Time is over because nobody is ready for Asuka. Stratton said she’s ready for Asuka and challenged her to a match tonight. Sane looked at Stratton, so Asuka yelled for her.

The SmackDown commentary team of Joe Tessitore and Wade Barrett welcomed us to the show. They showed some pre-show walking of wrestlers involved in matches later in the night.

Solo Sikoa walked out with the Wyatt Family lantern for his singles match.

A commercial aired for the Elimination Chamber PLE on Saturday night in Chicago.

(Commercial)

There was a replay of last week when Uncle Howdy challenged Solo Sikoa to a match this week without anybody in their stables joining them.

Uncle Howdy (Bo Dallas) made his entrance for a rare singles match. As mentioned, they didn’t have any of their stable allies at ringside.

Solo Sikoa vs. Uncle Howdy

It was Solo in control early, with some punches and a headbutt. Howdy hit a running back elbow. Howdy teased a neckbreaker, but Solo bailed to the floor to avoid it. Solo threw an uppercut. Solo went for a Samoan Spike, but Howdy avoided it and Solo hit the ring post. Howdy clotheslined Solo over the barricade. They went back into the ring, where Howdy stomped on Solo’s right hand. Solo came back with a punch and sent Howdy face-first into the turnbuckle. They took a break as the action continued for those of us on Netflix. Solo was in control with basic moves like punches and headbutts. Solo grabbed the right shoulder. When Howdy got back up, Solo slammed him down and grabbed the shoulder for a nerve hold again.

Solo remained on offense with a Samoan Drop for a two-count. Solo grabbed the shoulder for a nerve hold again. Howdy worked over Solo with punches, but Solo hit a Spinning Solo slam. Solo went up top with an Uso Splash, like his brothers, for a two-count. There were “Let’s Go Howdy” chants. Solo teased a Sister Abigail neckbreaker, even with a kiss, but Howdy hit a Mandible Claw in the mouth. Solo managed to hit the Samoan Spike, staggering Howdy into the turnbuckle. Solo hit two running hip attacks in a row. Solo charged, Howdy caught him, and hit the Sister Abigail neckbreaker for the pinfall win after about 11 minutes.

Winner by pinfall: Uncle Howdy

Analysis: **3/4 It was a very slow-paced match with Solo on offense for about 80% of the match, and all it took was one move for Howdy to get the victory. Solo’s offense with the nerve hold grabbing bored me. It felt like an old-school match from a previous era, so it was pretty average.

After the match, Uncle Howdy grabbed the Wyatt Family lantern from a podium at ringside. However, Talla Tonga showed up with a big boot for Howdy, and the other MFT guys were there too. Talla carried the lantern to the back. The Wyatt Sicks showed up to check on Howdy.

Analysis: The stolen lantern story just keeps going and going. I thought it might finally end here, but nope. I really don’t think it’s that interesting. However, I see why it continues because it gets two stables to feud, and maybe it will lead to a WrestleMania tag team match between them with the lantern on the line. I don’t know if that’s the long-term plan, though.

SmackDown GM Nick Aldis was backstage talking to Drew McIntyre, telling him that after tomorrow, his opponent for WrestleMania would be set, so he told Drew to stay home. Drew said they need to get along better and that they’ve known each other for so long as two guys from the UK who are the WWE Champion and General Manager. Drew walked away.

The Vision’s Paul Heyman, Logan Paul, and Austin Theory approached Aldis, who wasn’t thrilled to see them. Heyman suggested putting Paul in the Elimination Chamber match. Paul said he’d win the Elimination Chamber and showed off his muscles, telling Aldis to kiss his biceps. Aldis didn’t want to do that. Theory aggressively yelled at Aldis about it. Aldis said it was convenient that he was taken out and that now Paul Heyman had shown up with his group. Heyman tried to negotiate with Aldis some more. Aldis said there were politics in play and that he had to make some calls. After Aldis left, Heyman told Paul he would win the Chamber and told Theory to watch his temper. Theory said to himself, “I don’t like that guy” about Aldis.

Analysis: This SmackDown episode is heavy in backstage segments so far. A lot of talking is going on.

(Commercial)

A video aired about the Rhea Ripley/Iyo Sky match against Nia Jax/Lash Legend later tonight.

Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky, the Women’s Tag Team Champions, were interviewed by Cathy Kelley. Ripley said she has to take it one step at a time, so tonight is about the Women’s Tag Team Title match. Sky said that Ripley will win the Elimination Chamber tomorrow and go on to become the WWE Women’s Champion at WrestleMania. Ripley said they are on the same page and they have each other’s backs. Jade Cargill walked into the screen and told Ripley this is cute, but nobody will have Ripley’s back at Elimination Chamber, which should be her focus. Jade said, hopefully, Ripley doesn’t hurt herself for her match tomorrow.

Analysis: Is that a tease that Ripley is going to have an injury in her match tonight? It might be.

Nick Aldis was on his phone, telling somebody to call him back whenever they needed to. Jacob Fatu approached Aldis, who asked about Jey, and Fatu said you saw how Jey was doing since he got taken out. Jacob said Drew is the one who attacked him in the past. Fatu said that Aldis has a Drew problem, and he has a problem with Drew. Fatu said that the solution to this problem is to put him in the Chamber match. Drew said that he’ll walk into the Elimination Chamber and solve that problem. Aldis said he’ll take it under consideration. Aldis said he had to make some calls. Fatu said he’ll take that.

Tiffany Stratton made her entrance for singles action.

(Commercial)

An NXT Origins video aired about Damian Priest, showing his journey in WWE. Priest discussed his experience before coming to WWE and how NXT helped him develop the character he has become. He also talked about how much NXT prepared him.

There was a plug for NXT Stand & Deliver on Saturday, April 4th, so they moved it away from WrestleMania weekend. That’s the weekend when WrestleMania used to be held.

They showed Grammy Award-winning singer Jelly Roll at ringside. Jelly has lost over 270 pounds. Good job, Jelly.

Asuka did a promo on her way to the ring with Kairi Sane. Asuka said she was smart. Asuka told Stratton that Stratton will face Kairi Sane instead of Asuka.

Tiffany Stratton vs. Kairi Sane (w/Asuka)

The great Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre went to ringside, with Fyre wheeling Green out in a wheelchair. Green had her injured right foot in a boot. Green was on commentary. Stratton hit a springboard senton splash on Sane. Sane came back with a headscissors, prompting Stratton to flip and land on her feet. Stratton tripped Sane into the ropes. Stratton splashed Sane against the ropes. Sane left the ring, so Stratton did a slingshot dive over the top onto Sane. Asuka distracted Stratton, so Sane elbowed Stratton and sent Stratton into the ring post. They went on a break, so I’ll take one too, as Sane was in control.

They did a double clothesline spot before the show returned from the break. Stratton hit Sane with two clotheslines and a handstand back elbow. Stratton followed up with an Alabama Slam for a two-count. Stratton hit a rolling senton, but Sane was back up and tripped Stratton on the ropes. Sane hit a double-foot stomp off the top on Stratton for a two-count. Sane hit a running elbow while Stratton was against the turnbuckle. Sane jumped off the top. Stratton avoided it and hit a basement dropkick for two. They went to the apron, where it looked like Stratton was going for a suplex, but Sane hit a DDT on Stratton on the apron, and Stratton bumped to the floor. That looked risky, but they did it about as well as they could. Back in the ring, Sane hit a clothesline off the top for a two-count. Sane went up top. Stratton was back up, and Stratton shoved Sane off the top onto Alba Fyre on the floor. Green yelled at Stratton, so Sane moved out of the way and hit Green, knocking Green back into her wheelchair. Back in the ring, Stratton hit the rolling senton on Sane. Stratton hit the Prettiest Moonsault Ever perfectly for the perfect win after about 10 minutes.

Winner by pinfall: Tiffany Stratton

Analysis: *** A solid TV match that gave Stratton some positive momentum heading into the Women’s Elimination Chamber Match. It made sense for Stratton to win a match like this, and the result was never in doubt. Sane is talented, but she rarely gets wins in singles matches. They did a good job incorporating Green, Fyre, and Asuka into the match, while the babyface Stratton outsmarted them all to get the win.

The Vision (Paul Heyman with Logan Paul & Austin Theory) was backstage when Nick Aldis appeared, saying he was looking for them and that they were in his office. Aldis said he spoke with Raw GM Adam Pearce. Aldis said Paul would get his opportunity to compete in the Elimination Chamber Match. Aldis added that Paul would get his opportunity if he won his match against Jacob Fatu tonight. Heyman didn’t like that. Paul said he sold the most valuable trading card, married the most beautiful supermodel, could beat the Samoan Werewolf, and would win the Elimination Chamber. Heyman seemed okay with it now because Paul was confident. The Vision left.

Analysis: After one hour of backstage segments, the match is finally set for the Elimination Chamber spot – Jacob Fatu against Logan Paul. That’s cool. What’s interesting is that they did triple-threat qualifying matches in the past, but now it’s a singles match. I don’t mind it, though. It’s a fresh match.

The Miz made his entrance for singles action.

A commercial aired for the WWE 2K26 video game featuring CM Punk as the cover athlete.

(Commercial)

The graphic was shown for the bonus Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Jacob Fatu vs. Logan Paul.

Oba Femi made his entrance after the lights went out in the building. The fans gave Femi a big reaction with the “Woo” chanting during his entrance. Femi did his strut on the way to the ring while the fans chanted “Oba” for him. This match was set up last week in a backstage segment.

Analysis: They have done a great job of making Oba Femi’s entrance feel special. The same goes for Trick Williams. Shoutout to the people at NXT for setting them up for success.

The Miz vs. Oba Femi

As soon as the bell rang, The Miz left the ring and did a promo. The Miz said they don’t have to fight. Miz said that nobody wants this match. The fans booed that lie. Miz claimed that as the locker room leader, let’s use this as a teaching moment. Miz said 20 years ago, he was down the street in WWE development. The fans were chanting “Oba” as Miz kept talking. Miz claimed he didn’t make the mistake of going after locker room leaders like The Undertaker and Triple H. Miz said he wants to take Oba under his wing and guide him. Miz said he wanted to be his Undertaker. Femi said that there’s no striking resemblance, but Miz looks like a “dead man” to him. Miz kept on rambling about trying to inspire Femi. Miz said he wanted to inspire Femi inside and outside the ring. Miz said with all his connections, he could have the crowds around the world chanting “Oba” for him, so the fans chanted it. Femi said he doesn’t need Miz to get them chanting his name. Femi asked Louisville if he should join forces with The Miz, who did a Femi strut. Femi asked if they should become the Awesome Rulers and the fans booed. Femi told Miz he’s dying tonight. Miz claimed this is a teaching moment teach Femi to be the bigger man and walk away. The talking lasted about four minutes.

Analysis: The Miz’s promo was entertaining, and I liked how Femi reacted to what Miz was saying because it shows that Femi has a personality, and he knows how to play to the crowd well.

Miz punched Femi, who no-sold it, and Femi hit a clothesline. Miz jumped off the top, and Femi punched him. Femi hit a running splash against the turnbuckle. Femi tried it again, Miz moved, and Femi hit the turnbuckle. Miz tried Skull Crushing Finale, but Femi blocked it and tossed Miz across the ring. Femi hit a Fall From Grace (sitout Powerbomb) for the pinfall win in under two minutes. The whole thing lasted about six minutes from when the bell rang, but it was a two-minute match.

Winner by pinfall: Oba Femi

Analysis: * A squash match to give Oba Femi yet another win.

The US Champion, Carmelo Hayes, was shown walking backstage when he saw Ilja Dragunov in a suit. Hayes said he thought Ilja was going to fight him tonight. Ilja said he wasn’t successful against Tama Tonga and hasn’t been successful recently. Ilja said he’ll come for the US Title when the time is right. Ilja told Melo to remind everybody why he is Him. Melo gave Ilja a pep talk, telling him that if he doesn’t take his shot, somebody else will.

The United States Champion, Carmelo Hayes, made his entrance for an open challenge.

(Commercial)

It was Matt Cardona answering the open challenge. The crowd response to Cardona is okay, but not great.

United States Championship: Carmelo Hayes vs. Matt Cardona

They shook hands, and Matt got a rollup for two. Melo came back with a crucifix pin for two. Matt hit a dropkick for two. Melo hit a dropkick, but Matt avoided another and kicked Melo down. Matt hit a neckbreaker. They went to the apron. Melo knocked Matt down and tried a leaping attack on the floor, but Matt moved, and Melo hit the commentary table. Melo took a big bump over the commentary table to the floor. They took a break for some fans as the match continued. I’ll take a break here, too.

The veteran Cardona was in full control after Melo took that big bump into the commentary table. Matt hit a knee lift that knocked Melo out of the ring. Matt hit a double boot attack to send Melo into the barricade. Melo avoided an attack, leading to Melo kicked Matt and Melo hit a springboard leg drop to the back of the head/neck. Melo ran the ropes and hit a springboard clothesline. Matt hit a boot to the face, and Melo hit La Mistica to send Matt into the mat for a two count. Matt kicked Melo in the ribs and hit a double underhook Powerbomb for a two count. Matt charged with a kick, but Melo avoided it and hit a back body drop. Melo went up top, Matt met him there and hit a top rope hurricanrana. Melo got a rollup for two. Melo hit a superkick for two. Melo jumped off the top, Matt moved, Matt hit a spinning forearm and Matt hit a Rough Ryder leg lariat for a two count. The fans reacted to that since they know that as Matt’s finisher. Melo and Matt exchanged pin attempts. Melo hit The First 48 double knee attack for the pinfall win after 12 minutes.

Winner by pinfall: Carmelo Hayes

Analysis: ***1/4 It was a pretty good match that saw Cardona in control for most of the match, but Melo found a way to survive and got the win. Like the Sikoa match earlier, Cardona was in control for most of this one. The fans reacted to the Rough Ryder, but other than that, they didn’t seem to get into the match that much. I don’t mind the open challenges that Melo does. However, I’d also like to see Melo have a meaningful feud.

There were a bunch of wrestlers backstage, like the Motor City Machine Guns, Fraxiom, Apollo Crews & Rey Fenix, Angel & Berto, and R-Truth, who told them how to watch Elimination Chamber on the ESPN app. They were standing by the crate that said it was not to be opened until February 28th, which is Elimination Chamber. Candice LeRae walked in with Johnny Gargano lying on an equipment crate, and LeRae said she had a match. Kit Wilson walked in to tell the wrestlers they are toxic. They all laughed at Kit.

Analysis: An ad for WWE PLEs on the ESPN App for those of you in the US. That’s pretty much what that was. I feel bad for those great tag teams standing there and doing nothing, though. The creative team has let those teams down. They need to be featured more. That goes for The Street Profits, too, who have been off TV for way too long.

Candice LeRae made her entrance, joined by husband Johnny Gargano, walking out to the ring looking sad and despondent. Gargano laid on the apron. At least he looks comfortable in that position.

(Commercial)

A clip aired of Royce Keys on Stephanie McMahon’s podcast talking about how he hopes that his story can help somebody else out there.

Jordynne Grace vs. Candice LeRae (w/Johnny Gargano)

Gargano was lying on the commentary table, looking sad. LeRae hadn’t had a singles match on SmackDown in a long time. Grace hit a spinebuster and three clotheslines. Grace sent LeRae into the turnbuckle. LeRae sent Grace into the turnbuckle, then hit an enziguri kick and a senton splash on Grace’s back. LeRae grabbed a chinlock, but Grace powered out and they exchanged pin attempts. LeRae hit a Codebreaker with one knee. Grace sent LeRae to the apron. LeRae went up top, and Grace hit an uppercut. Grace hit a superplex from the middle turnbuckle. Grace held on and hit a Jackhammer for a two-count. LeRae kicked Grace, and Gargano sat up on the commentary table, which surprised LeRae in the ring. LeRae hit a German Suplex. Gargano walked toward the back, so Grace hit a spinning back first. Grace hit a pumphandle German Suplex for the pinfall win after about 4 minutes.

Winner by pinfall: Jordynne Grace

Analysis: ** A short match to give Jordynne Grace after losing to Jade Cargill recently. This was all about pushing the “Johnny Gargano is sad’ story, and all it took was Gargano walking away to distract his wife, LeRae, so Grace capitalized to win. It’s a weak story.

Raquel Rodriguez was interviewed by Cathy Kelley. Raquel said she’s focused on what she needs to do to win. Jade Cargill interrupted, saying Liv Morgan made a good choice going after Stephanie Vaquer. Jade warned Raquel, saying she would embarrass her at WrestleMania if Raquel wins at Chamber. Raquel said she’ll see her soon.

Jade Cargill was approached by Michin and B-Fab. Michin said everybody is coming after Jade’s title, including her. Jade dared Michin to do something about it. Michin got in Jade’s face, and B-Fab held Michin back, saying she’ll get her chance.

The Women’s Tag Team Title match was next at the top of hour three.

(Commercial)

A video package aired about the AJ Styles tribute for AJ’s “Phenomenal” in-ring career ending on Raw this past Monday. The big news was when The Undertaker surprised Styles by letting him know that Styles would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame this year. That honor is very well deserved for Styles, who is a 2-time WWE Champion, and one of the greatest in-ring performers ever.

The WWE Hall of Fame Class for 2026 is Stephanie McMahon and AJ Styles so far.

Jacob Fatu was shown getting ready for his match tonight. Cody Rhodes approached him and said it might sound funny, but for what it’s worth, he hopes it is Fatu in there. Sami Zayn approached Cody and shook his hand. Cody left. Zayn asked Fatu how Jey Uso is doing. Fatu said Jey isn’t doing too well. Zayn said he knows he didn’t do it. Zayn said he’s not 100% sure he can say the same about Fatu. Fatu wondered what that meant. Zayn said that Fatu gets put into the Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match, and he gets it since Fatu has wanted to get his hands on Drew McIntyre. Fatu warned Zayn to be careful about what he says next. Zayn wondered or what, he’ll end up in the hospital with Jey? Zayn said that Fatu is not the only one who wants to get his hands on Drew. Zayn said that Drew screwed him out in the qualifying match. Fatu said that Drew hit Fatu with a Claymore Kick, then Drew hit a Claymore Kick on Cody and Zayn didn’t take a Claymore Kick. Fatu said it looked like Drew was trying to help Zayn win. Fatu said if anybody is pointing fingers, maybe Fatu should be watching Zayn. Zayn said you’re right and he’s sorry. Zayn said that Fatu deserves a second chance and told Fatu to go win it for Jey. Zayn flipped over a table and he was frustrated.

Analysis: That was another interesting backstage segment involving Sami Zayn, just like last week when he talked to Cody Rhodes. Jacob Fatu denying that he did anything to Jey Uso made sense, but I also liked how Fatu accused Zayn of perhaps doing the attack, and also for McIntyre trying to help Zayn win a few weeks ago. It makes me wonder if Zayn is going to turn heel soon, since he’s losing his mind about not becoming WWE Champion, so it makes me think Zayn is going to turn. I’m not sure if that’s the plan, but I certainly wouldn’t mind it.

Nia Jax and Lash Legend made their entrance, and they were being called The Irresistible Forces as a team. The Women’s Tag Team Champions, Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky, were up next. They received a huge ovation, as usual. The ring announcer, Mark Nash, did the championship in-ring introductions.

WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships: Rhiyo – Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky vs. Irresistible Forces – Nia Jax & Lash Legend

Sky used her speed to hit a dropkick on Lash. Ripley tagged in by slamming Sky onto Lash. Lash hit Ripley with a forearm smash. Sky hit a running dropkick to knock Jax out of the ring and Ripley kicked Lash out of the ring. Sky and Ripley hit baseball slide dropkicks. Lash and Jax caught both opponents and slammed them into the barricade at ringside. The heels took over as the show went on a break to some fans, with the match continuing here on Netflix. Lash hit Sky with a forearm, followed by a backbreaker. Jax tagged in with a splash against the turnbuckle. Jax hit an elbow drop, and grabbed a chinlock. Jax slammed Sky down. Lash sent Sky into the turnbuckle, followed by a clothesline. The heels remained in control as Lash grabbed an armbar.

The heel challengers remained in control as Lash hit a boot to the face to knock Sky down. Jax did a cheap shot. Sky broke free and hit Lash with a roundhouse kick. Ripley tagged in against Jax with a kick to the body. Ripley hit a few chops and Ripley hit a hurricanrana. Ripley kicked Lash out of the ring. Ripley went up top and hit a missile dropkick on Jax for two. Lash pulled Sky off the apron. Sky sent Lash into the steel steps. Jax hit a Samoan Drop on Ripley. Jax went to the turnbuckle, but Ripley blocked that. Ripley kicked Jax and Ripley hit a Powerbomb on the bigger woman Jax and that got a two count. Ripley hit a running kick to knock Jax out of the ring. Ripley hit a cannonball attack from the apron to the floor. Jax got a hold of Ripley and tossed her into the ring apron. The heel side remained in control, which was typical in a match like this with teams focused on a strength. Lash and Jax made quick tags as they worked over Ripley during a break for some fans.

The match returned after I heard Jax say the words “hot tag” which was coming right up. Ripley tried to break free, Jax caught her and Jax hit a headbutt. Jax knocked Sky off the apron to the floor. Jax tossed Ripley out of the ring. Lash got the tag and sent Ripley into the ring post. Jax gave Ripley a Samoan Drop on the commentary table, but it didn’t break the table. Back in the ring, Lash hit a running splash for two. Lash hit a Chokeslam on Ripley. Jax went to the middle ropes, jumped off and hit a leg drop for two because Sky made the save. Sky hit a headscissors to send Lash out of the ring. Jax charged, Ripley moved and Jax went crashing into the ring post. Sky got the hot tag with a double foot stomp on Lash. Sky dropkicked Jax into the commentary table. Sky was launched into the air and hit a DDT on Jax. It was a sloppy one. Sky kicked Lash. Sky went to the top rope and Danielson hit a missile dropkick. Sky hit a suicide dive on Jax. Sky hit a running knee attack on Lash. Sky went up top and hit Over the Moonsault on Lash, but Jax broke up the pin. Jax hit the Annihilator splash on Sky for two because Ripley broke it up. Ripley superkicked Lash on the floor. Ripley sent Jax out of the ring to the floor. Ripley tagged back in with a running dropkick. Ripley headbutted Jax and hit Riptide on Jax. Lash was legal, she held Ripley on her back and hit a Lash Extension on Ripley for the pinfall win after 18 minutes.

Winners by pinfall AND NEW WWE Tag Team Champions: Irresistible Forces – Nia Jax & Lash Legend

Analysis: ***1/2 This was a very good match that was given a lot of time. Lash and Jax work well together. They both are willing to sell, but they also know their roles as powerful women who are going to get plenty of moments to shine. I’m not surprised by Ripley taking the pin because she is my pick to win the Women’s Elimination Chamber match, so it makes her look weaker going into the Chamber match. I’m happy for Lash and Jax as the new champions. I think they could have a dominant run as the champions.

Nia Jax and Lash Legend celebrated their Tag Team Title win.

Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss spoke backstage while Flair had three cups of ice cream. Flair said she was fine with her being the new Women’s Tag Team Champions. Flair said she’s fine that her best friend, Bliss, is in the Chamber. Kiana James and Giulia trash-talked Flair and Bliss. James said they are going to have the gold. Jade Cargill walked in to wish Bliss and James good luck. Jade left.

Solo Siko and MFTs approached Nick Aldis. Solo complained about what happened out there earlier in the show. Aldis said that the MFTs haven’t defended the Tag Team Titles enough, so Aldis said that next week, they’ll determine new contenders. Solo said to bring it on.

(Commercial)

Nia Jax and Lash Legend celebrated as the WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions in the backstage area. Jax talked about Lash winning her first title in WWE. Lash said they are going to celebrate next week. When Cathy Kelley was happy about that, Jax said she was not invited. Ouch.

A video aired featuring CM Punk doing the cold open for the Elimination Chamber PLE.

Randy Orton was shown walking backstage when he noticed Aleister Black and Zelina. Black wondered if his Black Mass kick opened up something instead of Orton. Orton said that the voices were talking in his head. Orton warned Black and said that after the Chamber, he would find Black. Orton left, while Black said of course, Orton will find him because Orton planned it that way.

Logan Paul made his entrance with The Vision’s Paul Heyman and Austin Theory.

(Commercial)

It was announced that WrestleMania 42 will start at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. ET, and the first hour will be live on ESPN 2 on April 18 and the first hour will be live on ESPN on April 19.

Analysis: I like the earlier start time for WrestleMania. It’s probably going to be four hours long on both nights, so it makes sense to me.

Jacob Fatu made his entrance for the main event. Fatu now wrestles without a shirt since he looks ripped. Fatu told a story recently that AJ Styles was the one who told Fatu to go shirtless in the ring.

Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match: Logan Paul (w/Austin Theory & Paul Heyman) vs. Jacob Fatu

Paul hit a couple of forearms, but Fatu came back with clotheslines and a senton splash. Fatu worked over Paul with ten headbutts (headbutting his own hand) and a running back elbow. Fatu worked over Paul with punches. Fatu sent Paul into the turnbuckle and hit a running splash against the turnbuckle. Fatu clotheslined Paul over the top to the floor. Fatu hit a suicide dive on Paul on the floor. They went on a break for some fans as the match continued. Fatu sent Paul into the steel steps. Paul came back to send Fatu’s head into the steel steps. Fatu overpowered Paul by sending Logan into the barricade. Fatu charged on the floor, so Theory moved Paul out of the way and Fatu hit the barricade. Paul sent Fatu into the ring post. Paul distracted the referee, so Theory punched Fatu repeatedly. Paul hit a leg drop on Fatu for two.

Fatu charged at Paul against the turnbuckle, but Paul moved and Paul hit a jumping neckbreaker like Dolph Ziggler’s Zig Zag for a two count. Paul went up top, jumped off with a splash, but Fatu moved and Fatu hit a superkick. Fatu hit a cartwheel moonsault for a two count. Fatu went up top, so Paul met him there with a forearm smash. Fatu knocked down Paul with a headbutt while on the turnbuckle. Fatu jumped off with a Swanton Bomb, but Paul got his knees up. Paul hit a Blockbuster and a springboard moonsault on Fatu for two. Fatu landed on his feet and hit a superkick. Fatu hit a running hip attack. Fatu superkicked Theory off the apron to the floor. Heyman was on the apron, so Fatu grabbed him. Paul hit a low blow on Fatu and a KO punch to the jaw. Paul went up top and hit a Five Star Frog Splash for a two count. The Masked Man was at ringside and he superkicked Theory on the floor. Paul went after the Masked Man and punched him in the face. Paul pulled the mask off, and it was not a known wrestler. Paul threw the mask at him (it was an indy wrestler named Don Furio). Wade said it was an ineffective masked man. Fatu hit a popup Samoan Drop on Paul. Drew McIntyre was back at ringside, and he hit Fatu with the WWE Title to the head. The referee never saw it, of course, as McIntyre hid on the side of the ring. Paul rolled up Fatu with the ROLLUP OF DEATH~! for the pinfall win after about 11 minutes.

Winner by pinfall: Logan Paul

Analysis: ***1/4 It was a cheap win for Logan Paul, who benefited from Drew McIntyre screwing over Jacob Fatu again because Drew doesn’t want to face Fatu, and that’s why Drew cost Fatu another match to get into the Chamber. The bit with the Masked Man was a bit surprise because it was some indy wrestler rather than a WWE superstar. I think it’s a way to throw people off when the real reveal happens. Anyway, Paul did a good job working with Fatu in this match. I like both guys.

That win by Logan Paul means that Paul will be in the Men’s Elimination Chamber Match. Paul celebrated with The Vision while McIntyre posed with the WWE Title from a distance. Paul said he’s going to be the Elimination Chamber Match winner and that was the end of the show.

Analysis: My pick for Elimination Chamber is going to remain Cody Rhodes, but I think there will be twists and turns along the way to get Jacob Fatu into the WWE Title match, so it’s McIntyre-Rhodes-Fatu. I just don’t know how they will get there.

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Three Stars of the Show

1. Nia Jax & Lash Legend
2. Logan Paul
3. Carmelo Hayes

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The Scoreboard

7 out of 10

Last week: 7.5

2026 Average: 7.33

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Final Thoughts on WWE SmackDown

If you like backstage segments, this was the show for you. It felt like a record amount of backstage segments over a three-hour show. I get why they did it, but some of it could have been taken out or handled more quickly. It just felt like so much talking. Frankly, I think the wrestlers in the Elimination Chamber matches should have been on more in terms of promo time. It felt like they were rushed.

The in-ring action during the show was okay, but nothing really stood out that much. I thought the Women’s Tag Team Title match with Nia Jax & Lash Legend dethroning Rhea Ripley & Iyo Sky was probably the best match. It was a clean win, too.

That main event with Logan Paul and Jacob Fatu was solid. The masked man being an indy guy is a surprise, but then Drew McIntyre screwed Fatu out of a big win again, so it continues that story. I think the WWE Title has a lot of questions that hopefully get answered in the next few weeks.

The next WWE PLE is Elimination Chamber on February 28th in Chicago. Here’s the lineup so far:

* Men’s Elimination Chamber Match: Randy Orton vs. LA Knight vs. Cody Rhodes vs. Je’Von Evans vs. Trick Williams vs. Logan Paul

* World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk vs. Finn Balor

* Women’s Elimination Chamber Match: Rhea Ripley vs. Tiffany Stratton vs. Alexa Bliss vs. Asuka vs. Kiana James vs. Raquel Rodriguez

* Women’s Intercontinental Championship: Becky Lynch vs. AJ Lee

You can watch WWE Elimination Chamber, streaming live on Saturday, February 28, at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ESPN in the United States and Netflix everywhere else.

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Thanks for reading. Go Toronto Raptors, and Toronto Maple Leafs. You can contact me using any of the methods below.

John Canton

Email: [email protected]

Twitter/X: @johnreport