In a night filled with surprises and intense confrontations, WWE Smackdown, taped on December 19, 2025, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, and aired on December 26, 2025, on the USA Network, delivered a compelling mix of entertainment and athleticism. The evening was highlighted by a dramatic U.S. Championship title change and a heated buildup to a major upcoming match.
Rhodes and McIntyre: A Rivalry Intensifies
The show opened with WWE Champion Cody Rhodes backstage, eagerly awaiting the arrival of his rival, Drew McIntyre. Smackdown General Manager Nick Aldis reminded Rhodes of the no-contact rule until McIntyre signed the contract for their match. This tension set the stage for a night of escalating drama.
Meanwhile, The Miz found himself in a comedic yet brutal encounter with Joe Hendry in a Miracle on 34th Street Fight. The match, filled with holiday-themed antics, saw Hendry emerge victorious, much to the delight of the audience. The bout was a showcase of WWE’s flair for combining entertainment with wrestling, as Hendry, accompanied by Otis, Tozawa, and R-Truth, overcame The Miz in a festive melee.
U.S. Championship Title Change
A major highlight of the evening was the U.S. Championship match between Ilja Dragunov and Carmelo Hayes. The match was a testament to the athleticism and skill of both competitors, with Hayes ultimately securing a victory to become the new U.S. Champion. This title change was a significant moment for Hayes, marking his first championship win on the main roster.
“How the hell did he kick out?” exclaimed commentator Michael Cole, capturing the intensity of the match.
Dragunov’s sportsmanship was evident as he personally handed the championship belt to Hayes, acknowledging his opponent’s prowess. The match received high praise from fans and commentators alike, further cementing Hayes’s status as a rising star in WWE.
Women’s Division Showcases Talent
The women’s division was prominently featured, with Charlotte Flair defeating Lash Legend in a competitive match. The bout showcased Flair’s resilience and strategic prowess, overcoming the odds despite distractions from Nia Jax and Alexa Bliss at ringside. Commentary from Corey Graves added a sports-like feel, highlighting the technical aspects of the match.
Additionally, a tag team match saw U.S. Women’s Champion Chelsea Green and Alba Fyre face off against Giulia and Kiana James. Giulia’s victory over Green was a surprising turn, though it highlighted her in-ring capabilities despite a lack of connection with the audience.
Building Towards Future Showdowns
The night culminated in a tense confrontation between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. McIntyre’s provocations aimed at Rhodes set the stage for their upcoming match in Berlin, Germany. The stipulation of a Three Stages of Hell match promises an intense showdown, adding a new layer to their ongoing rivalry.
McIntyre’s taunts and strategic maneuvering to avoid physical confrontation with Rhodes until their match added depth to their storyline, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the resolution of their feud.
Overall, this episode of Smackdown delivered a mix of entertainment and athletic competition, setting the stage for future developments. The title change and the buildup to the Rhodes-McIntyre match were standout moments, ensuring that WWE continues to captivate its audience with compelling narratives and high-stakes action.
