What's Happening?
Ilja Dragunov has taken over the U.S. Championship open challenge tradition from Sami Zayn, marking his first defense against Aleister Black. The match, held during WWE SmackDown, was interrupted by Damian
Priest, who distracted Black, allowing Dragunov to secure a victory. This episode also featured a storyline involving Jimmy Uso and Cody Rhodes, with tensions rising over an attack on Jacob Fatu. Drew McIntyre was accused of the attack, leading to a no-disqualification match against Uso. The show also highlighted developments in the women's division, with Jade Cargill turning heel against Tiffany Stratton.
Why It's Important?
The continuation of the U.S. Championship open challenge by Dragunov maintains a popular tradition in WWE, offering opportunities for various wrestlers to showcase their skills. The ongoing storyline involving McIntyre, Uso, and Rhodes adds intrigue and drama, potentially setting up future high-stakes matches. The heel turn by Jade Cargill introduces new dynamics in the women's division, which could lead to fresh rivalries and storylines. These developments are crucial for maintaining viewer interest and driving narrative progression in WWE programming.
What's Next?
The fallout from the no-disqualification match between McIntyre and Uso is likely to influence upcoming WWE events, particularly with McIntyre's involvement in the title scene. The heel turn by Cargill suggests a potential feud with Stratton, which could be explored in future episodes. Additionally, the open challenge format under Dragunov's reign may continue to bring unexpected matchups and surprises, keeping the audience engaged.
