WWE SmackDown: A Recurring Pattern of Missed Opportunities - Analysis of the Recent Trend
Is WWE SmackDown consistently failing to deliver compelling content in the lead-up to major events? For weeks, fans and critics alike have observed a concerning trend: episodes that feel less like essential viewing and more like filler before the pay-per-view. This isn’t a new issue, but the recent December 13th episode served as a stark reminder of the blue brand’s struggles to maintain consistent engagement. This article dives deep into the issues plaguing SmackDown, analyzing the recent mixed tag team match between Rhea Ripley & Damian Priest and Zelina Vega & Aleister Black as a microcosm of the larger problem, and explores potential solutions for WWE to recapture audience attention.
The Problem with the Build: A Three-Month treadmill
The core issue isn’t necessarily the individual segments themselves, but the lack of compelling narrative progression. The feud between Damian Priest and Aleister Black, initiated back in September, has been a slow burn… perhaps too slow. Adding Zelina Vega into the mix felt predictable, a calculated move to create a mixed tag team match. While predictability isn’t inherently negative, the execution lacked urgency and genuine stakes.
This prolonged build-up,without notable developments or impactful moments,created a sense of stagnation. Fans weren’t tuning in with anticipation, but rather with a sense of obligation, if at all. As wrestling journalist Dave Meltzer of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter frequently points out, accomplished storylines require consistent investment and payoff – elements that have been noticeably absent from this particular arc.https://www.wrestlingobserver.com/
Deconstructing the Mixed Tag Team Match: Why It Failed to Ignite
The main event, a mixed tag team match, exemplified the problems with SmackDown’s current approach. While mixed tag matches can be exciting, they often fall into a predictable pattern: two simultaneous singles matches unfolding side-by-side. This format inherently limits the potential for explosive moments and organic tag team dynamics.
The match itself was described as “boring and messy,” lacking the fluidity and impactful sequences that define compelling wrestling. The competitors didn’t seem to gel, and the outcome felt predetermined. The squash match finish, where Vega and Black were decisively defeated, further underscored the lack of investment in their characters.
This isn’t to say the performers are at fault. Rhea Ripley and damian Priest are established stars, and Aleister Black and Zelina Vega are capable competitors. The issue lies in the creative direction and the lack of a compelling reason for the audience to care about the outcome. As highlighted by Bryan Alvarez on the Something to Wrestle with Bruce Prichard podcast, a strong narrative foundation is crucial for any match to resonate with fans. https://www.podcastone.com/something-to-wrestle
The Consequences of Predictability and Lack of Investment
The predictable nature of the match, and the feud as a whole, is a significant problem. Fans are increasingly savvy and can frequently enough anticipate outcomes. When a match feels inevitable, it diminishes the excitement and reduces the incentive to tune in.
Furthermore, the lack of investment in Vega and Black’s characters felt particularly damaging. They were positioned as clear losers from the outset, and their offense didn’t feel impactful. This type of booking can devalue performers and erode audience trust.
The situation raises a critical question: what purpose did this three-month feud serve? It didn’t elevate any of the participants, it didn’t advance any significant storylines, and it didn’t generate genuine excitement.It simply occupied time on the television schedule.
Beyond This Feud: A Systemic Issue on SmackDown
This isn’t an isolated incident. SmackDown has consistently struggled to build compelling narratives and deliver consistently engaging episodes. The show often feels reactive rather than proactive,responding to Raw’s storylines rather than forging its own identity.
The key to reversing this trend lies in several areas:
* Stronger Storytelling: Focus on developing long-term narratives with clear stakes and compelling character motivations.
* Meaningful Character Growth: Invest in building characters that fans can connect with, both heroes and villains.
* Surprise and Intrigue: Introduce unexpected twists and turns to keep the audience guessing.
* Consistent booking: Avoid booking decisions that contradict established character traits or undermine storylines.
* Prioritize Impactful Moments:
