Roman Reigns to have a long-term feud with 39-year-old star; title change soon? 5 things WWE subtly told us on SmackDown tonight
The final episode of WWE SmackDown before Saturday Night Main Event has come to a close. The show ended with a brawl between Kevin Owens and Cody Rhodes, where the Prizefighter struck the Undisputed Title onto the American Nightmare.
Additionally, Roman Reigns was featured on the show through a video package, where he made a groundbreaking announcement. In this article, we will discuss five things WWE subtly hinted at during SmackDown this week.
#5. Tiffany Stratton's babyface turn is seemingly on the horizon on SmackDown
Tiffany Stratton failed to qualify for the finals of the inaugural Women's United States Championship. Shortly after, backstage, she was mocked by Nia Jax in a polite manner. The Irresistible Force stated that not everyone is as good as she is as a singles star.
Following this, Candice LeRae entered the scene, announcing a Women’s Tag Team Title match against Naomi and Bianca Belair on SmackDown next week. During this, Candice also took shots at Tiffany’s recent loss, which didn’t sit well with the Ms. Money in the Bank holder.
This segment hints that a babyface turn for Stratton may be on the horizon on SmackDown, as she’s being somewhat bullied by those around her. With this shift, the MITB cash-in could finally take place, and Tiffany might become the new champion.
#4. WWE still protecting LA Knight as a single-star
LA Knight and Solo Sikoa engaged in a showdown on SmackDown this week. However, the ending of the match was a big surprise when Solo failed to defeat the Megastar. Instead, the match ended in a disqualification after Jacob Fatu attacked Knight.
This unclear result suggests that LA Knight is still being protected as a singles star, as he likely would have suffered a clean loss otherwise.
#3. Roman Reigns vs Solo Sikoa is expected to headline WWE RAW Netflix debut show
Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa are now set to lock horns on the RAW Netflix debut show on January 6, 2025. The Original Tribal Chief has declared that the Ula Fala will be on the line in this match, with the stipulation being Tribal Combat. All signs point to this match, headlining the mega episode of the red brand.
The OTC has traditionally headlined every Premium Live Event he’s been part of, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if his match against Sikoa headlines the RAW Netflix debut show.
#2. The OTC could be moving to RAW
Roman Reigns moving to the red brand is one of the major speculations circulating ahead of RAW’s debut on Netflix. Amidst this, the announcement of his match seems to heighten the chances of this move. Since Roman has labeled this match as Tribal Chief vs. Tribal Chief, it’s possible that the winner will move to RAW.
Meanwhile, the loser will remain part of Friday Night SmackDown. If the Head of the Table wins, it could mean his move to Monday nights.
#1. Roman Reigns could have a long feud with Drew McIntyre
Drew McIntyre made an unexpected appearance on the recent SmackDown when he attacked an injured Jimmy Uso at the start of the show. The Scottish Warrior had already targeted Sami Zayn and Jey Uso for aiding Roman Reigns at WarGames.
Now, with McIntyre attacking Jimmy as well, it seems that the Scottishman could be gearing up for a long feud with the OTC. This ongoing storyline between Drew and The Bloodline could eventually lead to a Reigns vs. McIntyre match in the near future.