St. Louis, Missouri, is about to witness an electrifying edition of WWE SmackDown, and the anticipation couldn’t be higher. With 9,000 enthusiastic fans packing the Enterprise Center, this Friday’s SmackDown marks the final live show before the much-anticipated Fastlane 2023.
Fastlane itself is gearing up to be a monumental event, set to unfold at the Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana, with a whopping 12,000 fans in attendance, according to WrestleTix. As the WWE Universe braces for the premium live event, SmackDown aims to deliver some last-minute excitement and buildup.
While the card for Friday Night SmackDown remains relatively under wraps, a few key appearances are on the horizon. The enigmatic Finn Balor and Damian Priest from The Judgment Day faction are expected to make their presence felt. Additionally, RAW’s Jey Uso and Cody Rhodes, who are challengers for the tag team gold, will be in the house. To add to the excitement, Dragon Lee is slated to square off against Austin Theory.
Given the limited information available about the blue brand’s upcoming show, WWE could have a surprise or two up its sleeve to captivate the audience. In this article, we delve into four potential surprises that might unfold on the final SmackDown before WWE Fastlane 2023.
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Surprise #4: Carlito’s LWO Return?
The Latino World Order (LWO) has garnered immense fan support within WWE, featuring remarkable talents like Zelina Vega, Rey Mysterio, Santos Escobar, Cruz Del Toro, and Joaquin Wilde. However, the stable recently faced adversity when Bobby Lashley and The Street Profits turned heel, launching a brutal attack. The LWO swiftly challenged the trio to a six-man tag team match at WWE Fastlane. The question remains, who will comprise the LWO team?
While Rey and Santos seem likely participants, the absence of either Wilde or Del Toro could be puzzling. Could this be the perfect moment for Carlito to make his triumphant return and officially join the LWO ranks? SmackDown might witness an announcement of Carlito’s intent to step into the fray at Fastlane, setting the stage for an explosive showdown.
Surprise #3: Bron Breakker’s SmackDown Invasion
The WWE NXT landscape is set to erupt with a colossal clash as Bron Breakker squares off against Carmelo Hayes. The significance of this bout is amplified by the presence of legendary figures in their respective corners—John Cena for Hayes and Paul Heyman for Breakker.
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To fuel anticipation for this epic showdown, Bron Breakker could make a surprise appearance on SmackDown, shaking up the status quo by ruthlessly assaulting John Cena. Such a move would undoubtedly elevate the stakes and excitement for their impending showdown, making it a must-see battle in WWE NXT history.
Surprise #2: The Pirate Princess Kairi Sane’s WWE Return
Kairi Sane, a former WWE superstar with a treasure trove of accomplishments, including two championship reigns and a Mae Young Classic victory, has been rumored to return to WWE. While her comeback remains unseen on television, speculations are rife.
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Friday Night SmackDown could witness the triumphant return of The Pirate Princess, potentially inserted into the Triple Threat Match featuring Asuka, Charlotte Flair, and IYO SKY at Fastlane. Alternatively, Kairi Sane might offer her unwavering support in Asuka’s corner for the high-stakes match, adding an emotional layer to an already intense rivalry.
Surprise #1: Jey Uso’s Shocking Reunion with The Bloodline
Jey Uso, a familiar face from The Bloodline, returns to WWE Friday Night SmackDown for a special appearance alongside Cody Rhodes, ahead of Fastlane 2023. Jey had distanced himself from SmackDown and WWE altogether after The Bloodline’s fracture, seeking separation from his family. However, for one night only, he reunites with them on the blue brand.
In a stunning twist that could alter the landscape of WWE, Jey Uso might betray Cody Rhodes, realigning with The Bloodline. The trio of Jey, Jimmy Uso, and Solo Sikoa could potentially unleash havoc on The American Nightmare, leaving an indelible mark on the road to Fastlane.
Stephen’s Insight:
As the final SmackDown before Fastlane beckons, the WWE Universe is on the edge of their seats, anticipating what surprises may be in store. From potential returns to shocking reunions, Friday Night SmackDown promises to be an unforgettable prelude to the grand spectacle that awaits at Fastlane 2023.
