This week’s episode of SmackDown is the third-to-last episode before WrestleMania 34. Shinsuke Nakamura faces Rusev, Charlotte Flair takes on Natalya, and there are a few other matches throughout the show. Most importantly, however, is that this is Daniel Bryan’s first episode back as both the Smackdown Live General Manager and in-ring competitor.
Daniel Bryan is a Wrestler Again
Two years ago, Daniel Bryan was forced to retire due to complications with his history of concussions. Since then, he has seen numerous doctors and has been training hard enough to the point where WWE allowed him to come back to the ring as of earlier today. Bryan thanks everyone he is grateful for, most notably his wife Brie Bella, before saying that he doesn’t know exactly when he will return to the ring.
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Rusev
On his way to challenging AJ Styles for the WWE Championship, Shinsuke Nakamura continues his battle with Rusev after facing him at Fastlane a couple weeks ago.
After both men counter each other’s pinfalls, Nakamura gets the edge by scoring a roll-up just long enough to pin Rusev. After the match, Rusev Day tries to go for a two-on-one assault on the winner but the King of Strong Style fights them off. Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura
Charlotte Flair vs. Natalya
Before defending her SmackDown Women’s Championship against Asuka at WrestleMania, Charlotte Flair has to defeat one of her toughest opponents in Natalya. A loss here could significantly hurt Flair’s momentum heading into her clash with the Empress of Tomorrow.
Carmella rushes to the ring looking to cash in her Money in the Bank briefcase, but she gets hit by a big boot from Charlotte. This is just enough of a distraction for Natalya to sneak in a roll-up for the win. Winner: Natalya
Jimmy Uso (w/Jey Uso) vs. Harper (w/Rowan)
At Fastlane, The Usos’ battle with the New Day was interrupted when the Bludgeon Brothers assaulted all of them. Last week, Jimmy Uso and Big E were the only two victims cleared to return, so they took on Harper and Rowan to a losing effort. Tonight, Jimmy Uso takes on Harper in singles competition.
While Rowan distracts the referee, both Usos superkick Harper, but it isn’t enough. Harper stops Jimmy Uso in his tracks and lays him out with his signature discus clothesline. Winner: Harper
Naomi & Becky Lynch vs. Sarah Logan & Liv Morgan (w/Ruby Riott)
All four of these women are a part of the first-ever WrestleMania Women’s Battle Royal (formerly named after the Fabulous Moolah) but as for tonight, they continue the trend of pointless tag team matches.
Becky Lynch locks in the Disarm-her on Sarah Logan, but Liv Morgan comes to interfere with the submission. However, Naomi hits Morgan with the Rear View and Logan is forced to tap out. Winners (via submission): Naomi & Becky Lynch
Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn are Fired
Last week, Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn assaulted Shane McMahon all throughout the arena, injuring the SmackDown Live Commissioner’s throat and back. Even though Daniel Bryan is cleared to return, he still has to be the General Manager and he responds to their actions by firing both of them.
Instead of leaving, Owens and Zayn attack Bryan now that he can compete again. Bryan rallies back for a bit with his signature running dropkicks and “Yes” kicks, but the numbers game gets to him. After Zayn hits Bryan with the Helluva Kick, the show ends with Owens powerbombing Bryan onto the ring apron and forcing him to be carried out on a stretcher.
