In this episode of SmackDown, which was just before SummerSlam, one of the year’s major events, several conflicts and plots were unfolding. This blue brand installment was generally impressive, but there was a particular scene that didn’t quite resonate by the end of the broadcast. Let’s dive into the key highlights and lowlights from tonight’s SmackDown, starting with one of the most astonishing developments of the night.
Hit: The Champ Is Here (Again…Maybe)
As a die-hard wrestling fan, I must say that SmackDown kicked off this week with a segment that was absolutely crucial before SummerSlam, and it centered around none other than John Cena and Cody Rhodes. These two heavyweights are set to face off for the Undisputed WWE Championship this weekend, and last week, we witnessed an unusual promo from Rhodes, asking Cena to bring back his old self. To be honest, it felt like a rehash of past promos, but considering what transpired tonight, maybe Rhodes was spot on with his request.
John stepped forward and spoke not only about his recent actions, but clarified that he was tired of pretending to be someone else for the sake of sensational TV. He even mentioned that those who were supposed to support him abandoned him, pointing specifically to The Rock and Travis Scott. If this is a reversion to his previous ‘good guy’ persona, it’s a sudden but skillfully done change that should ultimately pay off. If it’s a surprise twist, it might be disappointing, but at least it stirred up curiosity about a storyline that needed some excitement.
Hit: Straight Fire Collision
Following our evolutionary steps, the ongoing conflict between Giulia and Zelina Vega had reached a boiling point, ready for at least one more confrontation. Tonight’s WWE SmackDown witnessed this clash, and it surpassed their previous encounter, offering unforgettable instances and genuine surprises that led to an exhilarating climax. If there won’t be a Street Fight or cage match in the near future, it appears this tale has reached its conclusion, but what a dramatic way to end things!
Hit: Clowns and Iguanas
If I had told you a year ago that Psycho Clown and Mr. Iguana were two of the main attractions on tonight’s SmackDown, you probably wouldn’t have thought it was possible, but now it’s true! This is due to WWE acquiring AAA, which has led to more collaboration between the companies. And let me tell you, Mr. Iguana is incredibly popular right now.
As soon as he arrived, the crowd burst into excitement; however, within the ring, it was Psycho Clown who captivated everyone during the performance. The team delivered an outstanding display, yet their rivals, AAA Tag Team Champions Los Garza, equally impressed with a powerful performance of their own. This encounter served as a shining moment for the AAA Tag Team scene, and you can anticipate seeing more of Psycho Clown and Mr. Iguana in WWE in the future.
Hit: The Black Mass Is To Be Feared
Aleister Black has been consistently impressive since his comeback to WWE, and despite losses, he’s still portrayed as one of the most dangerous superstars. One key factor contributing to this is the strategic protection of his finisher, the Black Mass, which is leaving opponents unconscious all over the place. For instance, in tonight’s battle against Damien Priest, Black disqualified himself by using a chair on Priest, but immediately after, he delivered a powerful Black Mass that sent Priest crashing into the steel steps. Keep an eye out for Aleister Black, as his finisher could put you out cold for a whole week if it lands.
Hit: Green Shirts and Strays
Green shirt guy catching strays
— WWE (@WWE) August 2, 2025
At WWE events like Raw and SmackDown, it’s common to spot a dedicated fan in a green shirt in the front row. This particular enthusiast is famously known as Smilez (or SuperFanSmilez on Instagram). In tonight’s show, after being booed by Logan Paul, Paul aimed a jibe at him, saying, “Quiet, green shirt man, you’re the most disliked among them.” Smilez chuckled, and the remark sparked a significant reaction from the audience, making it a memorable moment in the segment.
Miss: An Unnecessary Ending
On SmackDown this week, Jelly Roll’s storyline with Randy Orton, Drew McIntyre, and Logan Paul stood out as the central focus, although it could have been more concise. Although the foundation of the plot is straightforward and has worked well so far, tonight’s episode seemed excessively long for this particular narrative. We witnessed a backstage altercation involving Jelly Roll, a promo segment with McIntyre and Paul, and a brawl among all four participants. While it was entertaining, it was somewhat anticlimactic as the final segment of the show before SummerSlam, leaving viewers with a sense of underwhelm.
I’ve shared my high and low points from tonight’s WWE SmackDown, but I’d love to hear about yours in the comments below. Plus, don’t forget to join me on Bluesky @knightofoa for more wrestling discussions!
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2025-08-02 06:40