Key Highlights
- Drew McIntyre drove Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes through a table.
- Ilja Dragunov retained the United States Title against Nathan Frazer.
- Alexa Bliss defeated Nia Jax in their Women’s Tag Team Championship match.
- Tiffany Stratton and Jade Cargill engaged in a faceoff ahead of Saturday Night’s Main Event.
SmackDown: Drew McIntyre vs. Cody Rhodes
On Friday, October 31, 2025, the SmackDown pre-taped episode saw a dramatic clash between Drew McIntyre and Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes. In a stipulation-laden match, McIntyre added a rule that Rhodes must be driven through a table if he wants to win. The Scottish Warrior successfully executed his plan, driving Rhodes through the table moments after adding this stipulation.
Following their title match at Saturday Night’s Main Event, Drew McIntyre’s aggression was on full display as he sought to outmaneuver and overpower Cody Rhodes. This strategic move not only showcased McIntyre’s physical prowess but also emphasized his readiness for the upcoming WrestleMania 42 event.
United States Championship Match
The United States Champion, Ilja Dragunov, faced a new challenger in Nathan Frazer during SmackDown. The match was intense and saw both competitors giving it their all on the ring apron. However, the outcome favored Dragunov as he utilized his strength and agility to secure victory over Frazer.
Dragunov began by engaging in an open challenge, which allowed him to select a competitor.
Frazer’s participation was contested by Tommaso Ciampa, who attempted to disrupt their bout but eventually left the ring. The match between Dragunov and Frazer was marked by high-flying maneuvers and hard-hitting techniques, culminating in Dragunov executing his signature H-Bomb to retain his championship.
Women’s Tag Team Championship Match
In a highly anticipated Women’s Tag Team Championship match, WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton and Jade Cargill faced off against Alexa Bliss and Nia Jax. The rivalry between these two teams has been ongoing since their epic 2018 clash, making this rematch a significant event for the SmackDown roster.
Bliss and Jax started with aggressive tactics, hitting Jax as she leapt off the apron into the barricade. This move set the tone for an intense match characterized by both teams’ determination to dominate. Despite Jax’s efforts, Bliss managed to secure a dropkick and quickly apply the roll-up to win the match.
Other Notable Matches
Other notable matches included Carmelo Hayes defeating Kit Wilson, The Miz ambushing Hayes from behind, Alexa Bliss defeating Nia Jax in their Women’s Tag Team Championship match, Tama Tonga and JC Mateo defeating Motor City Machine Guns, and Drew McIntyre adding a stipulation to his title match against Cody Rhodes. These events collectively highlighted the dynamic nature of SmackDown, showcasing various storylines and rivalries.
The SmackDown episode on October 31, 2025, was filled with thrilling moments that kept fans engaged and excited for upcoming events like WrestleMania 42. The matches featured not only top-tier wrestlers but also showcased the intricate storylines and strategic thinking required to maintain audience interest in professional wrestling.
