The final WWE SmackDown earlier than SummerSlam 2024 did not disappoint, handing over two exciting Tag Team Title matches and an intense face-off between Cody Rhodes and his SummerSlam opponent, Solo Sikoa. Broadcast from the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio, this episode (#1302) set the stage for an electrifying pay-in line with-view event.
Logan Paul’s Cleveland Homecoming Spoiled
The night time kicked off with a acquainted face, Logan Paul, who arrived together with his entourage in a Prime truck, greeted by SmackDown GM Nick Aldis. The statement crew, Corey Graves and Wade Barrett, hyped the evening’s Tag Team Title fits because the display were given underway.
Cody Rhodes and Solo Sikoa Ignite SummerSlam Feud
Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes entered to a raucous ovation, wearing his signature in shape. The crowd’s chants of “Cody” filled the area as he started out his promo, right away calling out Solo Sikoa. Solo, dressed in all black, made his manner to the ring to a chorus of boos and “We Want Roman” chants. Solo’s command for the fanatics to well known him was met with even louder jeers.
Cody drew parallels between himself and Solo, noting the chip on Solo’s shoulder and almost admiring his rise. But the camaraderie ended there. Cody asserted that come SummerSlam, Solo, who has nothing to lose, could face Cody’s the whole thing being on the road. Solo retorted, proclaiming Cody’s victory over Roman Reigns at WrestleMania got here towards a susceptible Tribal Chief, not like Solo, who deemed himself risky.
The tension peaked when Solo proposed a Bloodline Rules Match for their SummerSlam come upon, a stipulation Cody standard in spite of acknowledging the danger. The disagreement escalated with the advent of Jacob Fatu, Tama Tonga, and Tonga Loa, who joined Solo at ringside. Cody’s defiant reaction set the degree for an epic showdown, punctuated through a hectic staredown earlier than Solo and The Bloodline exited, leaving Cody retaining the WWE Title aloft.
Analysis: This section turned into a effective prelude to SummerSlam, with Cody turning in sharp lines and Solo displaying his dangerous area. The Bloodline Rules Match guarantees excessive drama and capacity interference, with Cody anticipated to hold his name amid the chaos.
Carmelo Hayes vs. Andrade: A Match of High Stakes
Carmelo Hayes and Andrade reignited their rivalry, every trying to prove their dominance. The suit, a exhibit of athletic prowess, saw Andrade ultimately prevail in a tough-fought contest, enhancing his momentum heading into future bouts.
Analysis: A stellar fit that highlighted the chemistry between Hayes and Andrade, with the latter securing a crucial win to build his repute within WWE.
Santos Escobar Defeats Apollo Crews
Santos Escobar, subsidized by using Legado Del Fantasma, took on Apollo Crews. Despite Crews’ awesome offense, Escobar capitalized on out of doors interference from his faction to secure the victory.
Analysis: This healthy served as a reminder of the strength in numbers, with Escobar leveraging Legado Del Fantasma’s help to triumph over Crews.
Women’s Tag Team Title Match: A Chaotic Conclusion
Alba Fyre & Isla Dawn defended their WWE Women’s Tag Team Championships against Bianca Belair & Jade Cargill. Despite a strong showing from the challengers, interference from Blair Davenport led to a disqualification finish, allowing Fyre & Dawn to retain their titles.
Analysis: The DQ finish protected Belair and Cargill from a clean loss while setting up future confrontations involving Davenport.
Logan Paul’s Homecoming Celebration Turns Sour
Logan Paul’s attempt to celebrate his US Championship reign in his hometown backfired as LA Knight crashed the party. Knight’s antics, including driving off with Paul’s Prime truck, drew cheers from the crowd and set up their SummerSlam clash perfectly.
Analysis: The segment was a fun, crowd-pleasing moment that underscored Knight’s popularity and set the stage for their US Title match.
Main Event: DIY vs. The Bloodline for the WWE Tag Team Championships
The night’s main event saw #DIY (Tommaso Ciampa & Johnny Gargano) defend their WWE Tag Team Titles against The Bloodline’s Tama Tonga & Jacob Fatu. Despite a valiant effort from the champions, the numbers game proved too much. Solo Sikoa’s interference allowed The Bloodline to capture the titles, with Jacob Fatu’s incredible finishing sequence sealing the victory.
Analysis: A dramatic conclusion to the show, highlighting The Bloodline’s dominance and setting the stage for further developments at SummerSlam. DIY’s brief title reign came to an end, but their resilience and the crowd’s support were evident throughout the match.
Final Thoughts and Predictions
This episode of SmackDown successfully built anticipation for SummerSlam, with key matches and storylines reaching a fever pitch. The confrontations between Cody Rhodes and Solo Sikoa, as well as Logan Paul and LA Knight, promise to deliver high-stakes drama. The tag team title changes and ongoing rivalries set the stage for a memorable pay-per-view event.
