Tonight’s latest episode of SmackDown is live from Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA, and is being dubbed as the yearly “season premiere” of the weekly episodic, blue-branded, sports entertainment extravaganza. WWE appears to be going all in (not like that, you troublemakers) on this show – re-running a match which was deemed an instant classic by almost everyone when it took place at Clash at the Castle just last month. Alongside social media juggernaut Logan Paul appearing to confront “Tribal Chief”, Roman Reigns, we are in for an interesting season premiere. Let’s take a look at what is on offer for tonight’s episode of SmackDown.
Ricochet vs. Solo Sikoa
The first match to be previewed tonight is the match between Ricochet and Solo Sikoa. Since debuting at last month’s Clash at the Castle event, Sikoa has gone on to become the dominant enforcer of the Samoan Bloodline faction – even going so far as to forge a heart-warming friendship with best-thing-in-wrestling-right-now, and “Honorary Uce”, Sami Zayn. The “One and Only” Ricochet has some bad blood with Sikoa, who has interfered in the former’s matches and attacked Ricochet and partner, Madcap Moss. Tonight, Ricochet has a golden opportunity to seek some revenge. Will he succeed? Probably not.
WWE Intercontinental Championship: Sheamus vs. Gunther
Has there ever been an all-European match on an American wrestling show, which has showcased what European wrestling has to offer, better than Gunther and Sheamus at Clash at the Castle last month? Gunther truly is the “Ring General” of professional wrestling – consistently having five star caliber matches no matter the opponent or venue. Sheamus, also, has to be one of the most underrated performers in professional wrestling today. Ever since his comeback just last year, months after speculation that he would be retiring, Sheamus continues to improve and inspire at almost 45 years of age. Tonight, there is no better match for a season premiere than this bout for the WWE Intercontinental Championship. Should it conclude cleanly (somewhat doubtful), this feud will end. We expect it to continue past SmackDown.
Roman Reigns and Logan Paul Come Face to Face
The most promoted angle for tonight’s show is the meeting between Roman Reigns and Logan Paul. These two have been feuding for a few weeks now and, as we are all well-aware, they shall be facing off at the Saudi Crown Jewel 2022 event in just under a month’s time – a match which will undoubtedly be for Roman’s WWE Undisputed Universal Championship. Between now and then, they need to do something to raise the stakes in this feud. Whereas many WWE (and pro wrestling) fans loathe Paul and would happily see him out of the company, it is undeniable that he is a mainstream attraction for the WWE and it is wise to put him in the ring with Roman Reigns, the WWE’s undisputed top guy. Tonight, we can see things maybe getting physical. Maybe. SmackDown is live on Fox at 8/7c!
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