7-time WWE champion to quit following backstage argument; massive title change? 5 Surprises that could happen on the SmackDown before Bad Blood
Tonight's episode of SmackDown is a big one, as it's the final show before the Bad Blood premium live event. While a few matches have been announced, another couple might get added.
Beyond that, expect some major swerves to rock the boat on the blue brand. With The Bloodline running wild, a little shock to the system wouldn't hurt.
So, with that in mind, here are five surprises that could happen on the SmackDown before Bad Blood.
#5. Nia Jax could destroy Tiffany Stratton's briefcase
The tension between Tiffany Stratton and Nia Jax is currently at an all-time high. The WWE Women's Champion seems to be insecure about her position, with Bayley set to challenge her at Bad Blood. Last week, Jax choked Stratton and sent her a clear warning.
If the goal is to garner sympathy for Miss Money in the Bank, WWE could take things one step further on SmackDown tonight.
Tiffany Stratton is set to take on Naomi on the show. If she loses, which is a real possibility, Nia Jax may take out her frustration on the thing Stratton cherishes the most. The custom Money in the Bank briefcase that was gifted to her.
Jax could destroy it and ensure Tiffy Time doesn't come any time soon. The heat would be immense!
#4. Giovanni Vinci could finally win a match on WWE SmackDown
Giovanni Vinci has had a difficult start to life as a singles star on SmackDown. He lost to Apollo Crews twice in a row, with the first defeat coming in around three seconds. Could the Italian turn his fortunes around tonight?
As long as there's enough time on the stacked show, Giovanni Vinci could gain a quick victory over Crews. The former Imperium member is certainly due a win, following months of disappointment.
#3. AJ Styles could quit SmackDown after an argument with Nick Aldis
AJ Styles is set to make his much-awaited WWE return on SmackDown. The Phenomenal One's last televised appearance was at Clash at the Castle, where he lost an 'I Quit' Match to Cody Rhodes.
With his career continuing to wind down, Styles could keep a similar tone to his most recent feud. AJ can cut a promo stating he does not have much time left, before storming Nick Aldis' office to ask for another shot at the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Plans for Cody Rhodes' title seem to be locked got Crown Jewel, so Aldis would reject AJ's request. This can lead to Styles quitting SmackDown as a whole, following a heated argument. He could potentially end up on Monday Night RAW, following a guaranteed title shot against Gunther.
A desperate AJ Styles switching brands for one more shot at glory sounds like a great storyline. Whether or not he returns to the blue brand after that is another situation, altogether.
#2. Randy Orton and Kevin Owens could be added to (and win) the WWE Tag Team Title Ladder Match
The biggest thing announced for SmackDown tonight is a triple threat Ladder Match for the WWE Tag Team Championship. The Bloodline's Tongan members will defend their titles against DIY and The Street Profits. But what if Cody Rhodes pulls some strings to get it changed?
The American Nightmare may want to prove that he is still friends with Kevin Owens and Randy Orton, despite teaming with Roman Reigns at Bad Blood. Rhodes asking Nick Aldis to add them to the Ladder Match would be one hell of a gesture.
If that happens, expect Orton and Owens to win the titles. It will be interesting to see if KO forgives Cody Rhodes after that, while The Viper would be overjoyed at one more belt being added to his collection.
#1. Roman Reigns could make an appearance on WWE SmackDown
Roman Reigns is not advertised for tonight's episode of SmackDown. This would make any potential appearance a huge surprise for the fans in Nashville.
The OTC could come out alongside Cody Rhodes, to brawl with The Bloodline at the end of the show. However, this would only be possible if Tama Tonga and Tonga Loa retain the WWE Tag Team Championship. It wouldn't hurt to give some final build to the main event of Bad Blood.
Rhodes and Reigns need to definitively be on the same page heading into the premium live event, with tonight's show potentially showcasing their chemistry as tag team partners.