The Blue Brand came to Richmond, Virginia for this week’s edition of Smackdown, which was the last Smackdown Live before WrestleMania 33.
The show began with the contract signing for the WrestleMania match between AJ Styles and Shane McMahon. Shane expressed respect for AJ’s ability and legacy in wrestling but he warned him to bring his best. AJ told him that this match would be a traditional one, which would negate much of Shane’s infamous daredevil/hardcore style. The signing, while tense, went without any physical incident.
Becky Lynch vs. Carmella
The inaugural match of the night was a Diva’s match between the Irish Lass Kicker and the Queen of Staten Island. The match was intense, especially with the preexisting bad blood between the two. The powder keg became that much more volatile with Alexa Bliss and Micki James providing commentary. The match ended in a no contest when Alexa and Micki’s inevitable brawl spilled into the ring.
Becky Lynch & Micki James vs. Carmella & Alexa Bliss
This match was sanctioned by Daniel Bryan as a result of the brawl that interrupted the Becky’s and Carmella’s match. The bad blood was evident throughout the match between the future competitors for the belt at WM 33. Things got even more intense when Natalya interjected herself in the furor, which enabled James Ellsworth to interfere by tripping up Becky Lynch to give Carmella & Alexa Bliss the win. The four had an all-out brawl, which was interrupted by the return of Naomi. She will compete in the Smackdown Diva’s Title Match at WrestleMania 33.
Miz TV
This week’s installment was another session of The Miz and Maryse spoofing John Cena and Nikki Bella on Total Bellas. Of course, this caused a run in by John and Nikki which quashed this installment of Miz TV.
Mojo Rowley, Heath Slater, Rhyno, & American Alpha vs. Dolph Ziggler, Breezango, and The Usos
This match was a tune up for the Andre The Giant Memorial Battle Royal. The affair was an intense one, which saw Mojo Rowley win by defeating Tyler Breeze.
Bray Wyatt vs. Luke Harper
The Eater of Worlds faced off against his former disciple in a heated match that didn’t disappoint. Luke Harper continued to impress with his ability in his solo niche. He can only improve. Bray ultimately defeated his vengeful acolyte with a Sister Abigail but had little time to savor the victory.
Randy Orton responds to Bray Wyatt
Randy Orton appeared on the Titantron from the Wyatt Family Compound. He told Bray that he would win at WrestleMania and he impaled Sister Abigail through the heart to close the show to set the stage for the title match Sunday in Orlando.
