The latest episode of WWE’s “SmackDown,” which aired on March 15, 2024, introduced significant shifts in storylines, including the crowning of a new champion and the suspension of Drew McIntyre. This episode served as a pivotal moment for several superstars, showcasing fresh rivalries and setting the stage for upcoming events, including the much-anticipated Survivor Series: War Games.
Ilja Dragunov successfully defended the United States Championship against Johnny Gargano in an electrifying match that highlighted both wrestlers’ high-energy styles. This victory maintained Dragunov’s stronghold on the title, while also hinting at future conflicts, particularly with Tommaso Ciampa, who has been angling for a title shot but was overlooked by Dragunov during this episode.
The turmoil escalated when Drew McIntyre interrupted the main event match between Cody Rhodes and Aleister Black, which ended in a no contest after McIntyre struck the referee with a Claymore. This incident prompted WWE General Manager Nick Aldis to suspend McIntyre, effectively sidelining him from the title picture—at least for the time being. Many fans are now speculating whether this will lead to a Fatal 4-Way match involving McIntyre, Rhodes, Black, and Damian Priest.
The episode also saw the return of Nia Jax, who teamed up with Lash Legend to defeat Charlotte Flair. Their alliance poses a fresh challenge for the Women’s Tag Team Champions, Flair and Alexa Bliss, and adds an exciting layer to the women’s division. Jax downplayed any past tensions with Legend in a post-match interview, emphasizing their newfound friendship.
Chelsea Green made headlines by defeating Giulia to reclaim the Women’s United States Championship, further solidifying her status as a rising star in the division. This victory adds to her AAA Mixed Tag Team Championship, creating a formidable presence alongside her partner, Ethan Page, who holds the NXT North American Championship. Their combined titles evoke memories of past championship pairings, showcasing their potential to dominate the North American wrestling scene.
A standout moment included Jade Cargill’s brief yet impactful promo, reinforcing her status as a force to be reckoned with in WWE. Her interactions backstage, particularly with Chelsea Green and B-Fab, hint at future rivalries that could captivate audiences.
The episode concluded with a dramatic scene where Sami Zayn, despite being injured, made a timely intervention to save Rey Fenix from further attack by Solo Sikoa and Talla Tonga. This incident underlines the brewing tensions within the roster, setting the stage for potential matchups at Survivor Series.
In summary, “SmackDown” on March 15, 2024, marked a dynamic shift in the WWE landscape, with new champions, unexpected alliances, and the suspension of a top star. As storylines develop, fans eagerly anticipate how these changes will unfold leading into WrestleMania season.
