WWE SmackDown results: AJ Styles, Knight, and Orton eye for a title shot at Roman Reigns and more

The WWE authority figure recognizes the legitimacy of all three contenders' claims and announces a Number One Contenders Triple Threat Match.

Friday night SmackDown in a file photo (Image credits: Twitter)
By Mohit | Dec 23, 2023 | 4 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

AJ Styles makes it clear that he is the rightful contender for Roman Reigns’ championship. Dismissing the aspirations of both LA Knight and Randy Orton, Styles emphatically declares his number one status in the quest to dethrone the “Head of the Table.” His eyes are firmly set on the Royal Rumble a stage he envisions as the battleground for his clash with Reigns.

However, the path to the Royal Rumble is not a solitary journey for Styles. LA Knight a brash and confident contender enters the scene with a singular focus on asserting his dominance. Knight known for his outspoken nature and in-ring prowess interrupts Styles with a declaration of his intentions. Unfazed by Styles’ legacy and reputation, Knight asserts that he will be the one to face Reigns first.

Randy Orton adds another layer of complexity to the unfolding drama. Orton having endured an eighteen-month hiatus due to the machinations of The Bloodline returns with a burning desire for retribution. The Viper known for his cunning and ruthless tactics positions himself as a force to be reckoned with in the race for the Royal Rumble opportunity.

Nick Aldis’ announcement

Amidst the verbal jousting and claims of supremacy, a decisive announcement emerges from an unexpected source Nick Aldis. The WWE authority figure recognizes the legitimacy of all three contenders’ claims and announces a Number One Contenders Triple Threat Match. This clash of titans is set to unfold at the “SmackDown” New Year’s Revolution special with the winner earning the right to face Roman Reigns at the Royal Rumble.

The tension escalates as Styles, Knight, and Orton agree to the terms marking a pivotal moment in the buildup to one of WWE’s premier events. The prospect of these three powerhouse performers colliding in the ring promises a spectacle that transcends generational boundaries catering to the diverse tastes of wrestling enthusiasts from ages 10 to 50.

Bianca Belair, Shotzi, Zelina Vega, and Michin vs Damage CTRL

Amid this intense championship drama, the WWE universe is treated to an exhilarating Eight-Woman Tag Team Holiday Havoc Match. Bianca Belair, Shotzi, Zelina Vega, and Michin square off against Damage CTRL accompanied by Dakota Kai in a festive melee that encapsulates the spirit of the holiday season.

The match unfolds with chaotic energy as all eight women unleash their arsenal of moves and strategies. From high-flying acrobatics to inventive weapon usage the contest becomes a microcosm of the evolving dynamics within the women’s division. Belair’s strength, Shotzi’s unorthodox approach, Vega’s cunning, and Michin’s power combine to create a synergistic display of teamwork and individual prowess.

The holiday-themed stipulations including the incorporation of Christmas presents and festive weapons add an extra layer of entertainment for fans of all ages. The blend of athleticism, storytelling, and seasonal flair ensures that this Eight-Woman Tag Team Match becomes a standout moment in the broader WWE narrative.

Winner: Bianca Belair, Shotzi, Zelina Vega, and Michin

Dragon Lee vs Butch

The North American Championship takes center stage as Dragon Lee defends his title against Butch in a high-octane encounter. The match showcases the contrasting styles of the luchador extraordinaire and his formidable challenger Butch. Dragon Lee’s agility and aerial prowess collide with Butch’s power and relentless aggression creating a gripping narrative that unfolds within the squared circle.

As Dragon Lee maneuvers through a series of high-impact moves including a breathtaking hurricanrana off the apron, Butch counters with a display of strength and joint manipulation. The ebb and flow of the match exemplify the versatility and depth of talent within the North American Championship scene appealing to fans with diverse tastes in wrestling.

Winner: Dragon Lee

United States Championship Tournament Semi-Finals

The quest for the United States Championship intensifies with semi-final matchups featuring Kevin Owens against Carmelo Hayes and Santos Escobar against Bobby Lashley. These bouts offer a glimpse into the evolving landscape of the United States Championship scene with established veterans and emerging talents vying for a coveted spot in the tournament finals.

Kevin Owens and Carmelo Hayes deliver a hard-hitting encounter showcasing their resilience and in-ring prowess. Owens a seasoned performer with a penchant for high-risk maneuvers faces off against the rising star Hayes who exhibits agility and innovation in equal measure. The stakes are elevated as the winner moves one step closer to championship glory.

Winner: Kevin Owens

Meanwhile, the semi-final showdown between Santos Escobar and Bobby Lashley takes an unexpected turn with the interference of masked figures at ringside. The chaos sets the stage for a dramatic conclusion as Escobar capitalizes on the distraction to secure a victory over the formidable Lashley. The intrigue surrounding these semi-final matches adds an element of unpredictability to the ongoing United States Championship Tournament.

Winner: Santos Escobar

Solo Sikoa vs AJ Styles

The night culminates in a matchup between Solo Sikoa and AJ Styles with Styles aiming to send a resounding message to Roman Reigns. The intensity of the encounter is palpable as Styles unleashes a barrage of strikes and high-flying maneuvers. Sikoa determined to make a mark counter with displays of power and resilience.

However, the bout takes an unexpected turn when Roman Reigns emerges blindsiding AJ Styles and causing a disqualification. The interference sets the stage for a potential collision between Styles and Reigns at the Royal Rumble adding another layer of anticipation to the unfolding storyline.

Winner: N/A (via disqualification)

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