WWE SmackDown: Live Coverage, match Card & Analysis – october 17, 2024
Tonight, WWE SmackDown delivers live action from the SAP Center in San Jose, California. The show, airing on USA Network in the United States and globally on Netflix, promises to be a compelling follow-up to the recent Crown Jewel event. This article provides a thorough preview, live coverage details, and insightful analysis of the night’s key storylines. We’ll break down the announced matches, potential surprises, and what this episode means for the future of WWE programming.
Tonight’s SmackDown: A Post-Crown Jewel Landscape
Following the high-stakes drama of Crown Jewel, SmackDown aims to build momentum and set the stage for upcoming pay-per-view events. The card features a championship defence, a highly anticipated singles match, and a scheduled appearance by the Undisputed WWE Champion, Cody Rhodes. But what does this all mean for the broader WWE narrative?
Match Card breakdown & Predictions
Let’s dive into the specifics of each scheduled bout:
* WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship Match: Alexa Bliss & Charlotte Flair (c) vs.ZaRuca (Sol Ruca and Zaria) – This match offers a chance for the rising stars of ZaRuca to challenge established champions. Will Bliss and Flair continue their dominant reign, or will ZaRuca pull off a stunning upset?
* Jacob Fatu vs. Drew McIntyre – Despite recent reports concerning a potential injury to Fatu that could sideline him until 2026, the match is still scheduled. WWE may utilize this as an opportunity for an in-ring angle to explain Fatu’s absence. McIntyre, looking to regain momentum, needs a decisive victory.
* Cody Rhodes Appearance – The Undisputed WWE Champion’s presence is a major draw. Expect a promo addressing his recent victory and potentially setting up his next challenger. What message will Rhodes deliver to the WWE Universe?
Jacob Fatu’s Injury & Potential Storyline Implications
The reported injury to Jacob Fatu presents a unique challenge for WWE creative. While the match against Drew McIntyre is still on, the possibility of an injury angle looms large. This could allow WWE to write Fatu off television while simultaneously building sympathy and intrigue around his eventual return. This is a common tactic in professional wrestling, allowing for long-term storytelling.
| Wrestler | Key Strengths | Potential SmackDown Role |
|---|---|---|
| Alexa Bliss | Experience, Charisma, In-Ring Skill | Maintaining Tag Team Dominance |
| charlotte Flair | Technical Prowess, Championship Pedigree | Solidifying Position as a Top Star |
| Sol Ruca | Rising Star, High energy | Making a Statement Against Established Champions |
| Zaria | Athleticism, Potential | Gaining Exposure on a Major Show |
Live Coverage Details & How to Watch
Live coverage of tonight’s WWE smackdown begins at 8:00 PM ET.
* USA Network (United States): Tune in live on the USA Network.
* Netflix (International): Watch live on netflix.
* WWE Network/Peacock: The show will be available on demand shortly after its live broadcast.
* Social Media: Follow WWE’s official social media channels for real-
