5 things WWE SmackDown got right this week - Former champion turned face, new champions crowned and more

#1 Roman Reigns has the last laugh on WWE SmackDown

WAIT A MINUTE! @WWERomanReigns @WWEUsos #SmackDown #GauntletMatch @ShinsukeN pic.twitter.com/QJv5HiI42m

— WWE (@WWE) January 9, 2021

After Shinsuke Nakamura took down Daniel Bryan on WWE SmackDown, it seemed like he'd be challenging Roman Reigns at WWE Royal Rumble. But Reigns shattered Nakamura's dreams when he helped Adam Pearce win the match.

Paul Heyman worked hard to put Pearce in the Gauntlet Match, though the authority figure did not want to compete. Uso attacked Nakamura and weakened him to guarantee Pearce's victory. Reigns knocked Pearce out and draped him over Nakamura. The referee counted the pin, so Pearce will challenge Reigns for the WWE Universal Title later this month.

This closing segment allowed "The Tribal Chief" and his associates to demonstrate their dastardly methods. While it’s one thing to take out a competitor like Kevin Owens, bringing a reluctant non-wrestler into a fight is a new low.

Congrats suit. Enjoy your quick trip to the Island of Relevancy.But remember this...You’re only safe when I allow you to be. #RoyalRumble#MatchMaker https://t.co/EDYMRJpaBr

— Roman Reigns (@WWERomanReigns) January 9, 2021

Some fans are aware of Pearce’s accomplishments in the squared circle earlier in his career. But he has never faced a competitor like Reigns. Plus, Pearce hasn't wrestled in six years. Either way, WWE SmackDown threw fans a major curveball this week, and it added even more excitement to the show.