WWE’s recent SmackDown episode in Lyon, France, not only set the stage for the upcoming Backlash event but also hinted at a promising future for more WWE events in the country. This past Wednesday, the LDLC Arena was electrified by the presence of the Undisputed WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes, who faced off in a dynamic segment against AJ Styles, his opponent for the impending title defense.
The episode culminated with Rhodes taking on Shinsuke Nakamura in a dark match, where he secured a victory. However, it was his post-match comments that truly captivated the audience. In a heartfelt WWE SmackDown Exclusive, Rhodes addressed the energetic French crowd, expressing his gratitude and hinting at the potential for more WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs) in France.
Rhodes’ remarks came after a deafening reaction from the fans during his and Styles’ interview segment. “Tonight is the first time in my entire career where, during an interview segment, I could not hear myself. I could not hear AJ Styles. I gotta be honest, I loved it,” Rhodes confessed to the roaring crowd. His acknowledgment of the crowd’s passion and energy underscored the unique connection WWE superstars share with their audience, enhancing the live experience for both performers and fans.
The champion further encouraged the crowd to maintain their enthusiasm, suggesting that their energy could be a decisive factor in bringing more WWE events to France. “This is your PLE. If you bring the same energy you had today, and you bring it tomorrow, who’s to say another PLE doesn’t come to France?” Rhodes proposed, igniting hopes for future events.
As Rhodes prepares for his title defense against AJ Styles at Backlash, the hype surrounding the match continues to build. His engagement with the fans and his pledge to give his all in the upcoming match exemplifies the dedication WWE superstars have to their craft and their fans.
With the successful hosting of WWE events in Lyon and the positive reception from French fans, the future looks bright for WWE’s expansion in France. The company’s ability to connect with global audiences is a testament to its enduring appeal and its commitment to delivering high-octane entertainment worldwide.
Fans and officials alike will be eagerly watching the Backlash event, not only for the high-stakes matches but also to gauge the possibility of more such events that could follow, further solidifying France as a key player on WWE’s global stage.