The John Report: WWE SmackDown 03/06/26 Review
This is WWE SmackDown, featuring Drew McIntyre defending the WWE Title against Cody Rhodes, a Rhea Ripley-Jade Cargill confrontation, and more.
The WWE Elimination Chamber PLE took place last Saturday with Randy Orton and Rhea Ripley as the Elimination Chamber Match winners. Orton will face the WWE Champion at WrestleMania 42, while Ripley will face Jade Cargill for the WWE Women’s Title at WrestleMania 42. Regarding the WWE Title, there’s yet another Drew McIntyre-Cody Rhodes championship match on tonight’s SmackDown because McIntyre cost Rhodes inside the Elimination Chamber.
Due to McIntyre’s actions, SmackDown GM Nick Aldis is making Drew defend the title against Cody tonight, and there are a lot of rumors that there could be a title change. I’m certainly intrigued by it.
From the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon, this is SmackDown for episode #1385. Follow me on Twitter/X @johnreport. Let’s get to it.
There was an opening video package showing Elimination Chamber highlights.
They showed Cody Rhodes and WWE Champion Drew McIntyre getting ready earlier in the day before their big title match. They also showed Rhea Ripley chatting with her buddy Damian Priest and also Jade Cargill walking backstage.
It’s Joe Tessitore on commentary with Wade Barrett. Mark Nash was the ring announcer.
Let’s Hear from Randy Orton
Randy Orton made his entrance as the fans popped big for him as usual and they sang along with the legendary “Voices” song. Orton was in a good mood as he made his way down to the ring. The fans were showing a lot of love to The Viper.
Orton welcomed Portland to Friday Night SmackDown as the fans chanted “RKO” for Randy Keith Orton. Orton noted that when he got the venue earlier today, that WrestleMania Vegas sign was up. Orton said it got him thinking about all of the WrestleManias he’s performed in, and there have been 20 of them. Orton said he’s only main evented twice. That’s 2009 and 2014 as I know off the top of my head. Orton said it didn’t matter how many records or titles you have because there’s no guarantee that you’re going to WrestleMania or main eventing WrestleMania. Orton said here we are and he can officially say he’s going back to the main event of WrestleMania. Orton said he’s not the kind of guy to say he’s the best, but others like Ric Flair, The Undertaker, Harley Race, and JBL would say that Orton is what you get if you built a pro wrestler from the ground up. Orton said that the way that makes him feel is something else. Orton talked about the amazing, talented men to share a locker room with, it makes him proud to be doing this, and that he’s still at the top of his game, and he’s in the spot that he is in. Orton said that nobody gave this opportunity to him because he earned this son of a bitch.
Orton said when it comes to the main event of WrestleMania 42, he doesn’t know who his opponent will be, but we’ll know in a few hours. Orton said he feels very different about the two possibilities whether it’s Drew McIntyre (the crowd booed) or whether it’s Cody Rhodes…and there were cheers with some boos. Orton said it didn’t matter who it is because he’s not leaving empty-handed. Orton is going in with a chip on his shoulder and he’s leaving with the WWE Championship around his waist. The fans chanted “Randy” for Orton. Orton said he’ll accomplish that by using the three most dangerous letters in all of sports entertainment…R…K…and the lights went out!
Whoop That Trick! Here comes Trick Williams with the lights out entrance and the spotlight on him as the fans chanted “WHOOP THAT TRICK” for him. Love that star-making entrance for Trick.
Trick Williams put himself over as usual for being entertaining and sexy and all that stuff. Trick said he has a bone to pick with Orton because we know he should be in the main event of WrestleMania, getting that title shot. Trick said that Orton went to his pod in the Elimination Chamber and he said Trick is not 6’5” so Orton turned around so they could measure. Trick and Randy went face to face in the ring, so Trick mentioned his lemon pepper steppers (shoes) and that led to Orton dropping Trick with an RKO. Orton’s song played to end that.
Analysis: I liked that promo from Randy Orton, who overcame the serious back injury from a few years ago and I’m glad that Orton is on his way to a major title match at WrestleMania. Orton seems genuinely grateful and excited, and he should be. Trick Williams was there to take the RKO, and that was pretty much it. I like Trick a lot, but I worry about him being in a spot like that and looking too much like a comedy heel. I want Trick to be more of a serious guy. Long term, he should be fine.
The US Champion, Carmelo Hayes, talked to SmackDown GM Nick Aldis earlier in the day. Nick said Melo was doing a great job with the open challenges. Nick said that challengers were calling in from all over and he found a guy for tonight. Melo said don’t tell him and he’ll find out in the ring.
Carmelo Hayes made his entrance for his US Title defense.
A commercial aired for WrestleMania on April 18 & April 19.
(Commercial)
The AAA Latin American Champion, El Hijo Del Dr. Wagner Jr., made his entrance as the opponent. We know WWE owns AAA, so there are some AAA guys on WWE shows sometimes, and that’s what they are going with here.
United States Championship: Carmelo Hayes vs. El Hijo Del Dr. Wagner Jr.
This is Melo’s seventh title defense, and he has been champion for 77 days. Wagner hit a dropkick and a cannonball against the turnbuckle. He then connected with an enziguri kick to knock Melo off the apron to the floor. Wagner followed up with another cannonball off the apron onto Melo on the floor. He went up top and hit a missile dropkick for a two count. Melo jumped over Wagner and hit a dropkick. He then got an inside cradle for two. It looked like they messed up a spot, but Melo quickly trapped Wagner against the ropes. Melo hit a springboard leg drop to take control. They paused for a break for the fans, and I’ll take a break too.
Back in the ring, Wagner hit a superplex for a two count. Melo responded with an enziguri to the head, but Wagner came back with a clothesline for another two. Melo then hit a springboard clothesline to knock Wagner down. Melo spun around Wagner and hit a spinning slam into the mat, which Joe called a Dirty Diana instead of La Mistica. Wagner blocked a move and rolled through into a pin attempt for two. Wagner then hit a Powerbomb for a two count. He followed with a discus elbow to the jaw. Melo avoided a move, then Wagner jumped off the top, but Melo countered with a double knee move into the First 48 for a two count. Melo went up top and jumped off, but Wagner dodged it. Wagner hit a jumping knee to the head, then a spinning sitout Powerbomb for another two. Wagner slowly climbed to the top rope, jumped with a moonsault, but Melo moved. Melo then jumped with the Nothing But Net leg drop to the back of Wagner’s head, securing the pinfall after about 12 minutes.
Winner by pinfall: Carmelo Hayes
Analysis: ***1/4 A very good US Title match again by Carmelo Hayes, with Wagner putting up a fight and being very competitive throughout. Wagner is a solid wrestler who can hit powerful moves and move around the ring well. I didn’t expect Melo to lose, but it was an entertaining match as usual, like Melo. While I enjoy Melo’s US Title matches on SmackDown, I’d love to see him have a real feud.
Ilja Dragunov was watching backstage on a TV as Cathy Kelley asked him why he didn’t want a shot at the US Title. Ilja said he didn’t want the shot because he has lost some matches recently. He said he learned that from her mother since she fought hard throughout the match. Ilja mentioned that he takes pride in being called a warrior. He talked about waiting for the right time. The Miz approached Ilja, complaining about him wanting to wait. Kit Wilson also approached Ilja, saying that he’s toxic. Ilja summarized it by saying they should settle this with a fight in the ring. Ilja then left. The Miz claimed he’s the locker room leader and told Kit he’s got this, even though Kit thought Miz would take the match.
There’s a championship celebration up next.
(Commercial)
Damian Priest was talking to SmackDown GM Nick Aldis backstage. Priest said everybody is trying to get on the card at WrestleMania. Priest mentioned he heard he had a match tonight and asked who he has. R-Truth walked in, saying they are both in turmoil. Aldis said they are a team in Tag Team Turmoil tonight. Priest was okay with it. Truth and Priest left.
The Undisputed WWE Champion Drew McIntyre spoke to GM Aldis. Drew said he’s had a chance to calm down. Drew reminded Aldis of their agreement that Cody wouldn’t get a title shot unless he won the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber, but Cody won neither and still gets a shot. Aldis said Drew went back on his word to stay out of things, so he went back on his, and Aldis did the same. Drew said he’s beaten Cody before and will do it again because the only way Cody can take the title is out of his cold, dead hands. Aldis told Drew to lace them up.
Analysis: That was a necessary segment to do between Aldis and McIntyre. Drew tried to get out of his title match, but Aldis was correct in saying that Drew broke their deal when he interfered in the Royal Rumble and Elimination Chamber to cost Cody those matches. Aldis was right to say that.
The Irresistible Forces – Nia Jax & Lash Legend – Championship Celebration
The new WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, Nia Jax and Lash Legend, entered for a championship celebration. A clip was shown of Lash defeating Rhea Ripley last week with a Lash Extension for the win. There were balloons in the ring, a red carpet, champagne, and other items.
Nia Jax told Portland to look at two 6’0” thoroughbred stallions. Jax said that they had the tag team division on lock since they are two of the most dominant women in WWE. Jax said that any and all challengers are welcome. Jax said it won’t make a difference. Lash Legend said if you try to step to them, this is your first, last, and only warning that they are here and they aren’t going anywhere. Lash said cheers to them as the new Women’s Tag Team Champions, and they wanted champagne, but there was an interruption.
Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss made their entrance in their wrestling gear as they walked down to the ring. Bliss congratulated Nia for finding someone to ride the coattails of. Bliss mentioned they only lost the titles to the Kabuki Warriors because of Legend and Jax interfering, so Flair and Bliss are here to be the next challengers.
Kiana James and Women’s US Champion Giulia interrupted. James bragged about beating Flair and Jax two weeks ago. James also bragged about beating Bliss in Elimination Chamber. James said they are going to WrestleMania one way or another. Giulia spoke in Japanese, and then said in English they are going to walk into Vegas as the Women’s Tag Team Champions. James wanted Flair and Bliss to step to the side.
Here comes the obvious interruption with SmackDown GM Nick Aldis saying Portland deserves some action. Aldis called for Flair and Bliss against Giulia and James right now.
Analysis: This was fine as a segment to have the heel champions brag about being the champions. It also set up the obvious tag team match. My prediction for WrestleMania for the Women’s Tag Team Titles has been to do a Ladder Match because there are so many viable teams as contenders, but it might not happen that way. I saw a report this week that there might be 6 women’s matches at WrestleMania, which sounds good to me, so if they go that route, then there might not be a Ladder Match for the Women’s Tag Team Titles. It could just be a regular tag or a multi-team tag.
(Commercial)
Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss vs. Giulia & Kiana James
Flair gained some offense by knocking both opponents down to the floor. She hit a cannonball off the apron onto James and Giulia. James got back up to send Flair into the ring post. Giulia tagged in with a snapmare and a dropkick to the back. James returned with a shoulder tackle to Flair’s ribs. He went for a standing moonsault, but Flair got her knees up, and James kicked her as both women slowly hit the mat. Bliss tagged in against Giulia, delivering two shoulder tackles, a dropkick, slaps to the face, and another dropkick. Bliss hit a senton splash onto Giulia for a two-count. Giulia attempted a sunset flip, but Bliss was back up and kicked her out of the ring. James caught a leaping Bliss and sent her into the apron. Giulia kicked Bliss to knock her down onto the floor. The match paused briefly for some fans, but the action continued with the heels controlling the match for the next three minutes.
They performed the hot tag spot while it was in a break for some fans, as Flair tagged in with a crossbody off the top. Flair then unloaded with chops on both opponents, prompting the fans to chant “WOO.” She clotheslined James with a cartwheel. Flair delivered a fallaway slam to Giulia onto James. She climbed to the top rope and hit a perfect moonsault onto both James and Giulia, which looked flawless. It only earned a two-count on James, who barely kicked out. Giulia re-entered the match and her team threw some strikes. Giulia hit a belly-to-back suplex on Flair. She attempted a move, but Flair countered with a German Suplex. Bliss entered the ring and hit a DDT on James. Flair finished with a Natural Selection on Giulia for the pinfall victory after ten minutes.
Winners by pinfall: Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss
Analysis: *** This wasn’t officially a #1 contenders tag team match, but it felt that way with Flair and Bliss getting the win as a babyface team that could certainly face the Irresistible Forces. Flair and Bliss have the crowd behind them, so I certainly don’t mind them in this spot.
There was a video featuring Jelly Roll talking about how he wanted to see his tag team partner, Randy Orton, win the Elimination Chamber. Jelly Roll said he’ll see him next week on SmackDown. Jelly also mentioned he would see his buddy Cody Rhodes and wants him to beat Drew McIntyre, whom Jelly hates.
Cody Rhodes was interviewed by Cathy Kelley. Cody talked about overcoming obstacles and said he just wants to reach the point at the sign. Cody expressed hope that the next time she talks to him, he’s the WWE Champion.
Sami Zayn approached Cody Rhodes backstage, admitting that things have been awkward between them. Zayn complained that Cody is getting a WWE Title match even though he didn’t win Elimination Chamber. Cody responded by saying it sounds like Zayn is trying to politic his way into a WWE Title match, and added that he doesn’t have the title yet. Zayn got fired up, saying that Cody thinks he’s doing that, but he was only there to wish him good luck. It turned into all of this instead. Zayn explained that even if he hasn’t acted like it, he’s rooting for Cody and wants what’s best for him. He told Cody to do what he does and become WWE Champion again. Cody simply said, “Okay.” After Cody left, Zayn knocked over a water bottle, showing he was mad at himself again. Joe Tessitore summed it up by saying it was another look at Sami Zayn’s internal struggle.
Analysis: I like this direction for Sami Zayn because it makes me think that not winning the WWE Championship might lead him to turn heel out of frustration. Alternatively, Zayn could finally break through at some point, and that would be an incredible moment. Zayn is a good friend, but he’s also very jealous, and that shows in how he talks to Cody. Right now, it seems most likely that Zayn will turn heel on Cody in the coming months.
Trick Williams was shown doing an interview with The Breakfast Club. When Trick was talked about football compared to wrestling, Trick spoke about how fans all over the world react to him and how much he loves it.
The Motor City Machine Guns entered to start the Tag Team Gauntlet Match. It’s nice to see them in action because it’s been a while.
(Commercial)
Tag Team Turmoil #1: Motor City Machine Guns – Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin vs. Fraxiom – Nathan Frazer & Axiom
The winning team earns a shot at the WWE Tag Team Titles held by MFTs.
It started with Shelley and Frazer for about a minute. Sabin and Axiom tagged in and exchanged some holds as Sabin got a crucifix pin for two. Axiom tricked up Sabin and hit a half n half suplex. Frazer was back in against Shelley with a kick to the head. Frazer hit a DDT on Shelley and Axiom dropkicked Sabin out of the ring. Frazer and Axiom each hit two suicide dives in a row on their opponents.
(Commercial)
Frazer was in control with a somersault dive over the top onto both Guns on the floor. The Guns came back with a tag team combo move as Shelley held Frazer and Sabin hit a dropkick. Axiom and Frazer hit a double team move as Axiom hit a spin kick off the top while Frazer did a sweep kick. Sabin’s foot was on the bottom rope during a pin attempt, but the referee never saw it and the Guns were eliminated.
Motor City Machine Guns have been eliminated
Tag Team Turmoil #2: Fraxiom – Nathan Frazer & Axiom vs. Los Garza – Angel & Berto
Los Garza were aggressive early on with multiple pin attempts for two counts. Berto hit this impressive Powerbomb variation for one of the two counts. Frazer hit a superkick on Angel and Axiom hit a kick for two. Frazer hit a headscissors on Berto out of the ring. Angel hit a move off the top on Axiom while Berto shoved Frazer off the top to the floor. Angel & Berto hit their MTY double team Powerbomb move for the pinfall win.
Fraxiom have been eliminated
The Wyatt Sicks made their entrance as a group. The show went to a break for some fans and right into the action for the next turmoil match.
Tag Team Turmoil #3: Los Garza – Angel & Berto vs. Wyatt Sicks – Joe Gacy & Dexter Lumis
Gacy hit his upside-down clothesline on Angel. Gacy clotheslined Berto and Lumis hit a senton splash on Berto. Lumis hit a monkey flip on Berto across the ring. Gacy was back in with an elbow drop for two. Lumis was back in for a double team neckbreaker on Berto for two because Angel made the save. Lumis hit a running leg drop on Berto. The fans were quiet at this point. Lumis worked over Berto with punches.
The heel side Los Garza took control of the match as Berto applied a half crab on Lumis. Berto knocked Gacy off the apron and Angel tagged in for a double team Powerbomb/head slam into the mat for a two count. Lumis superkicked Angel to break free. Gacy kicked both opponents and hit a belly-to-back suplex on Berto for two. Angel went into the ring, so Gacy superkicked him. Tonga Loa showed up and pulled Gacy out of the ring. Tama Tonga distracted Lumis, so Berto did a ROLLUP OF DEATH~! on Lumis with a tights grab for the pinfall win.
Wyatt Sicks have been eliminated
Tag Team Turmoil #4: Los Garza – Angel & Berto vs. Damian Priest & R-Truth
The fans popped as Priest and Truth (now with a bald head) made their entrance. The show went to a break for some fans as the action continued. Angel and Garza were able to isolate Truth as Garza hit a running dropkick to Truth’s back. Berto splashed Truth against the turnbuckle. Angel tagged in with a splash on Truth, and Berto jumped over Angel to splash Truth again. Angel hit Truth with a forearm smash for two. Angel ran the ropes and Truth hit a jumping side kick. Priest got the hot tag and unloaded with punches and kicks.
Priest was fully in control as Los Garza bailed to the floor. Priest ran at Angel and hit him with a Pounce onto the commentary table. Berto kicked Priest and Berto hit a suicide dive on Priest. Berto hit a springboard kick to Priest’s head. Berto went up top and hit a moonsault on Priest for two. Priest hit a Broken Arrow. Truth tagged in with two shoulder tackles, along with a spinning slam. Truth hit John Cena’s Five Knuckle Shuffle fist drop on Berto. Truth went for the Attitude Adjustment, but Berto got out of it, so Truth applied the STF submission and Angel broke that up. Priest tagged in, kicked Angel in the head and Truth hit AA while Priest hit South of Heaven. Priest’s cover was the legal one as he got the win for his team. The entire Tag Team Turmoil Match went about 24 minutes.
Los Garza have been eliminated
Winners of Tag Team Turmoil: Damian Priest & R-Truth
Analysis: ***1/4 That’s my rating for the entire Tag Team Turmoil Match. It was pretty good, like these usually are, but it didn’t feel particularly special. I don’t mind Priest & Truth winning as a makeshift babyface team that has nothing else going on. Truth’s spots are loved by the crowd because he performs John Cena moves, and Priest is a likable babyface too. It was a really strong showing by Los Garza despite their loss throughout the match. I’m not sure why The Street Profits remain off TV, but they are definitely missed.
The win by Damian Priest & R-Truth means that they will get a shot at the WWE Tag Team Titles.
Drew McIntyre was shown getting ready for the main event later in the show.
It’s Rhea Ripley and Jade Cargill face-to-face next.
(Commercial)
Randy Orton was seen walking backstage when Sami Zayn approached him. Zayn said he’s really happy for Orton. Zayn mentioned that Cody Rhodes qualified for Elimination Chamber because Drew got involved, and Zayn tried to do the right thing. Zayn said that Orton did the same thing to Cody in the Chamber match. Zayn wondered how Orton managed to do it. Orton said that sometimes you gotta be selfish. Zayn asked, don’t you think that makes you a bad person? Orton replied that he didn’t know about that, but it makes him a 14-time World Champion. Zayn wished Orton the best. Orton said he believed in Zayn and thinks he can be a World Champion, while telling Zayn that maybe he should try listening to the voices. Orton then left. Aleister Black and Zelina walked up to Zayn. Black said don’t worry about him, Zelina said he can’t help himself, referencing Orton and Black said it’s the nature of the beast. Black and Zelina left while Zayn thought about it.
Analysis: It was another meaningful moment backstage for Sami Zayn as he tried to get Randy Orton to tell him how to be that jerk when needed. I liked Orton’s line about how he’s unsure if he’s a bad guy, but he is a 14-time World Champion. Well played. Most of those Orton title reigns happened when he was a heel rather than his current babyface role. Anyway, I still think Zayn turning heel later on makes sense.
Face to Face: Jade Cargill and Rhea Ripley
The Women’s Elimination Chamber winner, Rhea Ripley, made her entrance to a huge ovation. Ripley said she would come to SmackDown, and now she’s here. She also told everyone that since Jade Cargill has a lot to say to her, she should come down to the ring and say it to Ripley’s face.
Jade Cargill made her entrance as the heel WWE Women’s Champion, wearing a large purple fur coat. I think it’s fair to say both women look like stars and definitely have well-defined characters.
Jade extended her left hand, and Ripley shook it. Jade explained she shook Ripley’s hand out of respect for Rhea and all her accomplishments. She also said she respects how the fans love Rhea. Jade mentioned she respects how Ripley earned her shot at WrestleMania. She added that she respects how hard Ripley works to build her physique. Jade then claimed she was not impressed. She said Ripley’s arms are big, but her bar is bigger. She said Ripley’s legs are powerful, but hers are more powerful, and she is more powerful overall. Jade declared that at WrestleMania, she will beat Ripley badly, and there’s nothing Ripley can do about it because Jade is that bitch. Finally, Jade dropped her microphone.
Rhea Ripley extended her right hand for a shake, and Jade shook it. Ripley said she respected Jade’s honesty. Ripley said now she knows what Jade thinks about her. Ripley mentioned she doesn’t impress Jade physically, but Rhea said Jade impressed her physically. Ripley pointed out that Jade might have bigger shoulders, bigger arms, bigger legs, and bigger hands, but if you hit Ripley with your best shot, do you really think Ripley will stay down? Ripley said no to that. Ripley added that if she hits Jade with her best shot, then there’s no way Jade will get back up. Ripley explained that Jade’s body is built for show, while Ripley’s body is built for fighting. Ripley said she works out so her body can survive and thrive in this business. She told Jade to flex all she wants because it doesn’t matter—Ripley is going to fight. Ripley said she’ll take that title from Jade and do it with force. She claimed there’s nothing Jade can do about it because Ripley is that bitch. Ripley then dropped her microphone and left.
Analysis: It was an intense promotional exchange between two confident women. I think Ripley beating Cargill at WrestleMania 42 is very likely because Jade has held the title since November and has barely defended it, so Ripley winning it makes sense. They both pointed out the strengths of the other woman, but they are also very confident women, and that was clear in what they said to each other. I enjoyed it.
They showed Alex Shelley talking to Candice LeRae while Johnny Gargano was on an equipment case. Chris Sabin walked in, wondering why Shelley was checking on Gargano after their match. Sabin questioned why Shelley didn’t save him during the match, and Shelley said he put Sabin’s foot on the rope. Sabin said they needed to talk, so they left. Candice tried to give Johnny a pep talk, and Johnny finally got up. Johnny said, “You’re right,” and they went to the ring.
(Commercial)
There was a plug for the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony on April 17th featuring Stephanie McMahon, AJ Styles and Demolition.
Bo Dallas did a promo from the rocking chair with a message for Solo Sikoa. Dallas said he will not rest until the Wyatt Family lantern is returned to him. Dallas said that Solo will have no choice but to run.
Let’s Hear from Johnny Gargano
Johnny Gargano was in the ring with Candice LeRae by his side. Gargano said he knows he’s one of the best wrestlers in the world and he needs to be Johnny Wrestling again. Gargano invited anybody in the locker room to come down to the ring for a fight.
It’s Oba Femi time as the Ruler made his entrance to a good ovation from the crowd. Femi was dressed to compete while Gargano was in street clothes. Femi was announced as the opponent, so I guess it’s going to turn into a match.
Analysis: I’m not sure where this story is going for Johnny Gargano. I hope for better days ahead for him.
Oba Femi vs. Johnny Gargano
Gargano charged, Femi caught him, and Femi hit a chop to knock Gargano down. Femi hit four running uppercuts in a row on Gargano. Femi picked up Gargano and launched him across the ring. Femi hit the Fall From Grace for the pinfall win in under two minutes.
Winner by pinfall: Oba Femi
Analysis: * A dominant win by Oba Femi as usual. They are actually two of the most successful NXT wrestlers ever, but this was not a competitive match.
Jade Cargill was shown walking backstage with he WWE Women’s Title when Michin approached her. B-Fab was with Michin. Michin said that Rhea Ripley earned her spot and when she takes that title, she’ll worry about Ripley. Jade said she’s done talking and she’ll see Michin next week.
A commercial aired for the WWE 2K26 video game.
(Commercial)
The SmackDown GM, Nick Aldis, was shown walking backstage when he saw the newcomer Danhuasen. Danhausen talked about his Hall of Fame induction and he wanted a mentor to take him to the top. Aldis saw The Miz, who said he was trying to help young superstars. Aldis said he had somebody for Miz to mentor….it’s Danhausen. Danhausen was thrilled to meet The Miz, who didn’t like Danhausen. Miz said he’s not going to mentor Danhausen, so Danhausen said yes you are or you are going to be cursed. Danhausen mentioned what happened to Dominik on Monday. Miz tried to say more, but Danhausen left.
Analysis: That should lead to some comedy segments between Danhausen and Miz in the pairing. I like Danhausen’s silliness and Miz can pull off any sort of role, it will be interesting to see them interact in the future.
Next Friday on SmackDown in Phoenix:
* Jade Cargill vs. Michin
* Jelly Roll live
* Undisputed WWE Championship WrestleMania Contract Signing: Drew McIntyre or Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton
There was a video package of the Drew McIntyre-Cody Rhodes rivalry. This feud started at Wrestlepalooza last September, but they didn’t include that and only showed everything since January when Drew beat Cody for the WWE Title. Since then, Drew has done everything he could to prevent Cody from getting another shot at the WWE Title.
The WWE Title match is coming up.
(Commercial)
Cody Rhodes was up first as the former 2-time WWE World Champion. The fans were behind Cody as usual and singing “Kingdom” during his entrance.
Drew McIntyre was up next as the Undisputed WWE Champion and he took his time getting out there and posing in the ring with the gold. Ring announcer Mark Nash did the championship introductions. Referee Charles Robinson held up the WWE Title. They went to the final commercial of the night and the title match was next.
(Commercial)
Undisputed WWE Championship: Drew McIntyre vs. Cody Rhodes
The bell rang, and Drew tried to leave, but Cody stopped him. Cody fought with Drew outside the ring in the aisle and at ringside, then they went back into the ring. Drew connected with a chop, but Cody responded with a springboard Disaster Kick to the head. Cody then worked over Drew with punches. He went for a move off the turnbuckle, but Drew countered with a jumping kick. Drew hit two overhead belly-to-belly suplexes in a row. Cody left the ring and sent Drew into the steel steps. Cody attempted a dive, but Drew blocked it with a punch. Drew then gave Cody a backbreaker onto the ring apron. He followed up with a back elbow to knock Cody down. Drew hit a suplex to stay in control. However, Cody used his speed to land a snap powerslam. Cody then jumped off the ropes with a Cody Cutter. The fans were chanting “Cody” for Rhodes. Cody went for Cross Rhodes, but Drew avoided it and left the ring. When Cody went after him, Drew rammed Cody’s left arm into the ring post. Drew executed a single-arm takedown into the mat, then applied an armbar on the left arm. He hit double knees to the left arm and stomped on Cody’s bent arm. Drew pointed at the WrestleMania sign. He then went up top, took too long, and Cody met him there, hitting a superplex.
Cody applied the Figure Four Leglock, but Drew got his hands on the ropes and managed to break the hold. Drew then left the ring, prompting Cody to hit a suicide dive onto him on the floor. Cody cleared off the commentary table. I don’t think the referee was counting them out. Cody went for Cross Rhodes, but Drew punched him, causing the desk to collapse with both of them on it. The fans chanted for a table, and the wrestlers wanted to break one, so Cody pulled a table out from under the ring. Drew set up a table on the floor. Drew gouged Cody’s eyes and then Powerbombed him through the table. I assume that’s what they initially planned for the commentary table, but they improvised instead. The referee was being very lenient with them. Back in the ring, Drew held Cody and hit a Cross Rhodes for a two count. Drew then set up for a Claymore Kick, but Cody stopped it with a superkick. Cody hit his version of a Claymore Kick for a two count, so both of them managed to steal a finishing move for a two count.
They had a moment where referee Charles Robinson was nearly hit against the turnbuckle, which led to Cody jumping off the ropes. Drew pulled Robinson in the way, causing Cody to knock Robinson down and bump to the floor. Drew wanted a move, but Cody escaped. Drew hit a back body drop. Cody charged, but Drew moved, and Cody hit the turnbuckle. Drew then picked up Cody, who flipped over, and Cody hit a Cross Rhodes. There was no referee to count because Robinson was on the floor. Cody didn’t attempt a cover and called for a referee to come down, so Dan Engler ran to the ring. When Cody turned around, Drew hit a Claymore Kick for a one… two… no, because Cody got his shoulder up. The referee counting was Dan Engler. Drew got up and intimidated Engler against the turnbuckle. Drew then sent Cody shoulder-first into the ring post and repeated the move. Drew looked at referee Engler and then hit him with the Glasgow Kiss headbutt, knocking Engler out of the ring. That move is safe because Drew raises his hand, making it a headbutt to his hand. Drew brought a steel chair into the ring, but Jacob Fatu appeared ringside to take it away. Cody rolled up Drew and got a two-count with Charles Robinson again officiating. Drew hit a Future Shock DDT. He charged, but Cody avoided a Claymore Kick and jumped off the top rope with a Cody Cutter. Cody then hit Cross Rhodes on Drew for the one… two… three! Cody Rhodes is now a three-time Undisputed WWE Champion! The match lasted about 20 minutes.
Winner by pinfall AND NEW Undisputed WWE Champion: Cody Rhodes
Analysis: ***3/4 I thought it was an entertaining match as usual with them, and I’m giving it just under four stars (out of five). The referee bump at the end hurt it a bit, but I understand it was done to tell the story. Jacob Fatu showing up to stop Drew McIntyre’s chair shot attempt was a big factor and will probably set them up for a WrestleMania match. The table spot might upset some viewers because normally something like that leads to a DQ, but obviously it was just staged that way because the commentary table broke before they could use it, and using the commentary table doesn’t result in a DQ. Anyway, it’s not a big deal. Cody finished off Drew decisively to become WWE Champion for the third time. They told the story well, with Cody getting one last chance to be in a WrestleMania championship match, and he seized the big win. I also feel bad for Drew McIntyre because he’s such an incredible performer who deserves a main event spot, but WWE is going with singles matches this year in those spots, so Drew is on the outside looking in. I’m genuinely happy for Cody becoming a three-time WWE Champion, too.
The win means that Cody Rhodes will defend the Undisputed WWE Championship against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42.
Cody Rhodes was presented with the Undisputed WWE Championship and the fans were happy to see it. Cody stared at the WrestleMania Vegas sign. They replayed key spots in the match. Cody Rhodes celebrated on the turnbuckle with the WWE Championship around his waist and pointed at the WrestleMania sign. There was a pyro display by the entrance for Rhodes. Cody continued to celebrate. The show went about 3 minutes long, but that’s okay. That was the end of the show.
Analysis: Cody Rhodes against Randy Orton at WrestleMania 42, and my pick right now is Orton to win. Why not? I think Randy deserves another run as WWE Champion. I’m all for it.
AND NEW!!!@CodyRhodes is heading to WrestleMania as the NEW Undisputed WWE Champion!!! 🏆 pic.twitter.com/zM3uz8X6m7
— WWE (@WWE) March 7, 2026
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Three Stars of the Show
- Cody Rhodes
- Drew McIntyre
- Damian Priest & R-Truth
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The Scoreboard
7.5 out of 10
Last week: 7
2026 Average: 7.35
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Final Thoughts on WWE SmackDown
I think this was a pretty good show for most of it. The WWE Title match in the main event was obviously the highlight, and it was a very good Cody-Drew match as usual. It was a crazy match with ref bumps, but it was the result that a lot of us expected with Cody Rhodes as the WWE Champion again. I’m sure that upsets people, too, because they wanted Drew to have a longer title reign, while Cody, in another WrestleMania main event, is more of the same. It wouldn’t shock me if Cody gets booed against Randy Orton at WrestleMania, and in the lead up to that match. I get that people might have Cody fatigue, but the dude is really good. I do feel bad for Drew, too. A triple threat could have worked in that situation. It looks like Drew against Jacob Fatu at WrestleMania.
The three hours did drag at some points, but the action was solid. They had a nice balance of talking segments and wrestling. I liked the Randy Orton promo in the ring to start the show, the Sami Zayn backstage segments were well done, and then the Rhea Ripley-Jade Cargill showdown was okay.
The next WWE PLE is WrestleMania 42 on April 18 & April 19 in Las Vegas. Here’s the lineup so far:
* WWE World Heavyweight Championship: CM Punk (c) vs. Roman Reigns
* WWE Undisputed Championship: Cody Rhodes (c) vs. Randy Orton
* WWE Women’s World Championship: Stephanie Vaquer (c) vs. Liv Morgan
* WWE Women’s Championship: Jade Cargill (c) vs. Rhea Ripley
There will be more matches added in the weeks ahead.
WrestleMania 42 will STREAM LIVE Saturday, April 18, and Sunday, April 19, 2026, at 6 p.m. ET / 3 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