WWE News: What happened before SmackDown Live went on air?

Tye Dillinger features in the pre-SmackDown Live dark match
Tye Dillinger features in the pre-SmackDown Live dark match

What's the story?

WWE SmackDown Live featured the return of 'Free Agent' John Cena after a brief hiatus, some tag-team action and more of Daniel Bryan and Shane McMahon bickering. But there was even more action before the show

In case you didn't know...

Despite making the tenth position in the SmackDown Live top ten Superstars list, Tye Dillinger hasn't really featured on the blue brand for quite some time now. I believe his last televised match was in the first round of the United States Title Tournament that Bobby Roode went on to win.

The heart of the matter

Tye Dillinger did, however, feature in the dark match before SmackDown went on air. Dillinger's opponent was Mojo Rawley, who has also been used sparingly since taking part in the United States Title Tournament.

Despite reports that WWE officials are high on Rawley, it would be Tye Dillinger who picked up the victory against the former Greenbay Packer in what must be considered somewhat of an upset untelevised victory.

What's next?

SmackDown Live might be the land of opportunity, but it doesn't seem like Rawley or Dillinger are going to get any opportunity anytime soon. Neither is currently in a feud, neither looks to be on the road to WrestleMania, so they could possibly be involved in a massive multi-man match at WrestleMania.

Author's take

SmackDown Live really has been a fairly limited show as of late with Kevin Owens, Sami Zayn, Shane McMahon, AJ Styles and Daniel Bryan taking up a lot of the on-air time.

As a result, folks like Dillinger and Rawley, as well as others like Mike Bennett, Aiden English, The Fashion Files and even Rusev have suffered as a result. Hopefully, these guys all get their chance to shine a bit more going forward.


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