As the dust settles from the exhilarating events of WrestleMania XL, WWE fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a pivotal episode of SmackDown. This week’s show is set to usher in new eras, settle old scores, and perhaps redefine careers. From Cody Rhodes’s next big move to potential face-offs that could reshape the landscape, here are five developments that could captivate viewers.
Cody Rhodes Steps Into a New Role
Cody Rhodes, now the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion after dethroning Roman Reigns, is at the pinnacle of his WWE career. His victory at WrestleMania XL was not just a personal triumph but a seismic shift in the WWE universe. After being spotlighted on WWE RAW, Rhodes is expected to make a significant announcement on SmackDown, potentially declaring his move to the blue brand full-time. This transition could set the stage for fresh rivalries and cement his status as a leading figure in WWE.
Dakota Kai Eyes WWE Women’s Championship
Dakota Kai’s return from injury and subsequent betrayal of Bayley has set the stage for a compelling confrontation. Aligning herself with the remaining members of Damage CTRL, Kai has expressed confidence in her faction’s future success without Bayley. As Bayley enjoys her new role as WWE Women’s Champion, a challenge from Kai could ignite a fierce rivalry that tests both superstars’ resolve and skill in the ring.
Onto a brand new beginning. #WrestleMania pic.twitter.com/BqOeBgBDJA
— We changed everything. ֍ NOT @CodyRhodes. (@AndMyFatherSaid) April 8, 2024
The Street Profits’ Tag Team Aspirations
Fresh off their victory at WrestleMania XL, The Street Profits (Montez Ford and Angelo Dawkins) are riding a wave of momentum. With their sights set on the SmackDown Tag Team Championship, currently held by Austin Theory and Grayson Waller, the Profits are poised to challenge the new champions. This potential showdown could lead to thrilling matches and possibly a title change that would reshape the tag team division.
Randy Orton’s Quest for Gold
Randy Orton’s hunger for championship glory remains unfulfilled following WrestleMania XL. After witnessing Logan Paul defend the United States Championship against Kevin Owens and himself, Orton may be gearing up to challenge Paul to a one-on-one showdown. This match could provide “The Viper” an opportunity to reclaim his spot at the top and add another title to his illustrious career.
Roman Reigns’ Possible Face Turn
Roman Reigns’ era as the Undisputed WWE Universal Champion has ended, and with it, an opportunity arises for reinvention. Speculation is rife that Reigns might exhibit a new persona, moving away from his dominant heel character. This transformation could revitalize his career and realign fan perceptions, offering a fresh narrative for one of WWE’s most compelling characters.
Looking Ahead
As WWE SmackDown gears up to deliver these potentially groundbreaking moments, the implications for the future are immense. Each scenario presents an opportunity for dramatic shifts in storyline and character development. Whether it’s Cody Rhodes solidifying his leadership, Dakota Kai stepping out on her own, The Street Profits ascending, Randy Orton seeking redemption, or Roman Reigns embracing a new beginning, the post-WrestleMania landscape is ripe with opportunity. Fans and superstars alike are on the edge of their seats, ready for the next chapter in WWE’s storied saga.
