The latest episode of SmackDown gave fans a fresh spark as Survivor Series is almost here. The show brought new twists, stronger stories, and a fast pace that kept the crowd excited. It was a lively night in Denver, Colorado, where Triple H delivered a clean and powerful build-up before the big event.
SmackDown has been under pressure in recent weeks because fans felt the quality was dropping. But this episode stood out. The show felt planned, sharp, and full of moments that pushed every feud forward. With Survivor Series: WarGames just days away, WWE gave the audience something strong to talk about.
Here are four things Triple H handled well on SmackDown:
4. Announcing the final members for the Women’s WarGames Match
Both Rhea Ripley and Asuka needed one more partner for their WarGames teams. Triple H decided not to delay it any longer and revealed the final two names on this week’s show. AJ Lee joined the babyface side, while Becky Lynch stepped onto the heel team.
This was the right choice. Fans already had a clear idea of who the last members might be, so stretching it further would have felt forced. With only one episode of RAW and SmackDown left before Survivor Series, confirming everything now allows WWE to showcase the full feud and build the match properly.
3. Carmelo Hayes advancing in the tournament
Carmelo Hayes faced Bronson Reed in a first-round match of the Last Time is Now Tournament. In a surprise moment, Hayes won by count-out. This was an important booking decision, as Hayes needed this big win more than Reed at the moment.
Carmelo is on a strong run and is seen as a serious option to face John Cena in his retirement match. He also does not have a major storyline on the blue brand right now, so giving him a high-profile win helps his momentum. His victory over Reed sets him up as a top name to watch in the tournament.
2. Slowly easing the tension between Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair
Another thing Triple H did well was showing a slow and believable shift in the relationship between Rhea Ripley and Charlotte Flair. The two have been on opposite sides for months. Instead of rushing them into a sudden alliance, WWE showed a steady and natural change.
Ripley and Flair did not show any dramatic friendship. They simply put their issues aside for a shared goal in the Women’s WarGames Match. This approach made the story feel real and avoided any forced moments. It was a smart and balanced way to move their arc forward.
1. Adding more fire to the Cody Rhodes vs Drew McIntyre feud
Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre will stand across from each other in the Men’s WarGames Match. On this week’s show, Drew attacked Cody backstage in a violent segment that left Rhodes covered in blood. This moment lifted their rivalry to a new level.
Showing this backstage assault was the right call, as it gave the Men’s WarGames Match extra intensity. McIntyre’s attack also opened a new chapter between him and Rhodes, which WWE can continue even after Survivor Series. This added depth to their feud and made fans more invested in their clash.
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