By Roman Reigns Returns to SmackDown: Key Moments and Highlights
Welcome to our comprehensive coverage of WWE SmackDown, held on August 9, 2024. Following his dramatic return at SummerSlam, Roman Reigns made a significant impact on this week’s episode, setting the stage for new rivalries and continuing family feuds.
Show Recap:
A-Town Down vs. Street Profits
Cody Rhodes kicked off the show, addressing the crowd and teasing future challengers. Solo Sikoa, accompanied by Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa, made a surprise appearance, leading to a confrontation with Rhodes and Kevin Owens. The opening match featured A-Town Down facing The Street Profits to determine the next tag team challengers.
In a high-energy bout, Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins of The Street Profits secured a victory over Austin Theory and Grayson Waller. The match delivered solid entertainment and showcased the Profits’ dynamic performance.
Result: The Street Profits defeated A-Town Down
Grade: B
Notable Moments:
- Ford’s impressive dive over the top rope.
- B-Fab’s brief but impactful mic time.
Jade Cargill vs. Alba Fyre
Jade Cargill faced Alba Fyre in a quick singles match, with Bianca Belair and Isla Dawn in their respective corners. Despite a competitive effort from Fyre, Cargill emerged victorious with her finishing move, Jaded. The post-match saw Blair Davenport and Naomi join in a brawl, driving the heels out of the ring.
Result: Jade Cargill defeated Alba Fyre
Grade: C-
Notable Moments:
- Fyre’s entrance music complemented her character well.
- Naomi’s standout presence and style.
Andrade vs. Santos Escobar
The night continued with a No. 1 Contender’s match between Andrade and Santos Escobar. Both superstars delivered an exceptional performance, with several interference moments adding to the drama. Escobar ultimately claimed victory with a roll-up pin, aided by Carmelo Hayes’ interference.
Result: Santos Escobar defeated Andrade
Grade: B+
Notable Moments:
- Andrade’s smooth in-ring execution.
- Escobar’s impressive poison rana.
Pretty Deadly vs. DIY
In a No. 1 Contender’s match for a future tag team championship opportunity, Pretty Deadly faced off against DIY. The match was high-paced but concluded quickly with DIY emerging victorious, earning them a chance to challenge The Street Profits.
Result: DIY defeated Pretty Deadly
Grade: C+
Notable Moments:
- Pretty Deadly’s strong presence and Barrett’s commentary.
Final Segment: Roman Reigns and Family Feud
The episode concluded with Roman Reigns confronting Solo Sikoa. Reigns’ return was marked by a confrontation with Tama Tonga and Tanga Loa, followed by an intense altercation with Sikoa. Despite taking out his adversaries, Reigns was blindsided by the tag champions, setting the stage for further conflicts.
Overall Review:
Friday’s SmackDown delivered a mix of compelling matches and intense storylines, with standout performances from Andrade and Escobar. The episode effectively built on SummerSlam’s momentum, with Roman Reigns’ return being the highlight. The show’s focus on future feuds and title implications sets the stage for exciting developments in upcoming events.
For viewers tuning in on DVR, the Andrade vs. Escobar match is a must-watch for its technical excellence and dramatic twists.
