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SmackDown Live has been producing excellent storylines in the last few years. Ever since the brand split, it seems Raw has trailed closely behind the blue brand. However, recently The Shield returned to Raw. Therefore, how can SmackDown match the potential entertainment value which is sure to occur in the near future?
On Raw and SmackDown, current champions have been working similar matches, with storytelling becoming stale. For example, on Raw, the Universal Championship contenders have primarily been Brock Lesnar and Braun Strowman. Whereas, on SmackDown Live, Shinsuke Nakamura has battled Jeff Hardy multiple times. However, there is progress, such as the implosion of Rusev Day, see video below.
Let's explore some potential options to improve SmackDown Live storytelling.
#4 R-Truth Challenges for the United States Championship
Ron Killings aka R-Truth debuted in 2008 for WWE, and has earned multiple championships. However, he is best known for his storytelling, being arguably the most comedic character in WWE. Recently he returned to SmackDown Live, with a refreshing character alteration, working with Tye Dillinger. Their interactions have been comedic and entertaining.
However, this week on SmackDown Live, R-Truth would progress to a new level of entertainment. Together with Carmella, R-Truth would debut his new segment called Truth TV, see video below. However, The Miz intervened leading to a match with R-Truth. Which ultimately led to The Miz being victorious.
Evidently, R-Truth is far from entering the WWE championship picture. However, his talents are still useful. Therefore, one direction could be challenging for Shinsuke Nakamura's United States Championship. Considering Nakamura's recent defeat of Rusev, he needs a new challenger. Thus pairing Truth with Nakamura could be interesting. Moreover, Dillinger has a history with Nakamura. Could there be an eventual three-way feud? Nevertheless, this is a perfect way to showcase, Truth's talent.
What could we expect from this potential feud?
#3 Sanity Challenges for the Tag Team Championship
Debuting in NXT Sanity progressed to exceptional levels, and were dominant and refreshing. Their dominance brought them to the tag team championship scene. At NXT Takeover Brooklyn III they earned the NXT Tag Team championship from the Authors of Pain. However, on June 19th, 2018 Sanity debuted on SmackDown Live.
Since debuting on SmackDown Sanity have made sporadic appearances. Notwithstanding, their involvement in the tag team championship tournament, see video below. Ultimately they are the most lucrative contenders following the outcome of WWE Super Showdown. Therefore, when could they square off with The New Day?
Current champions New Day will defend against The Bar at WWE Super Showdown. The outcome determines the future of the division. However, these matchups are becoming repetitive. What is needed is a refreshed list of contenders. At the top of this list, should definitely be, Sanity.
What will happen following, WWE Super ShowDown?
#2 Rey Mysterio feuds with Andrade Cien Almas
Rey Mysterio has returned to WWE. However, he has yet signed with a specific brand. Therefore, it leaves speculation of how WWE will utilise him. Will he help develop 205 Live? Or, will he return to his old home, SmackDown Live? Nevertheless, his return is exciting, and his involvement will benefit almost everyone.
Between 2002-2015, Mysterio progressed from the WCW cruiserweight signee to perhaps the best Luchador in history. He would earn multiple championships and provide a plethora of memorable moments. In 2018 he returned from the independent circuit, to participate in the Royal Rumble and the Greatest Royal Rumble, see video below. The WWE Universe was treated to his renewed physique and ring style.
With the addition of Mysterio to SmackDown, it would provide opportunities for excellent matches and feuds. However, there is one match which would be awesome. Rey Mysterio versus Andrade Cien Almas. Almas' career somewhat mirrors Mysterio's, and the two luchadors could portray a showcase. With exceptional ring skills and entertaining promo segments, these wrestlers would be perfectly matched. However, only time will tell.
Do you agree?
#1 Samoa Joe Becomes WWE Champion
Presently on SmackDown Live, the storylines have been exciting and progressive. However, one particular storyline is that involving the WWE Championship. Recently, Samoa Joe and AJ Styles have been excellent working together. However, let's not forget their storied history in pro wrestling. During their tenures with Impact Wrestling (then TNA), they produced excellent matches together.
On SmackDown Live Joe has improved exponentially. He is potentially the greatest heel character on the brand. His performance has been dramatic and borderline sadistic. Moreover, specifically, when concerning Styles' family, see video below. Joe has been playing mind games with the WWE Champion.
At WWE Super ShowDown Styles' championship is on the line, and Joe is determined to become champion. Recently, Styles surpassed CM Punk's WWE Championship record for the longest reign. Therefore, Joe has an immense advantage and likely will defeat Styles. With Joe as champion, it benefits fans immensely. Firstly, new feuds will bloom. Secondly, the championship value will dramatically improve.
What makes Sting special? His first AEW opponent opens up RIGHT HERE.
