The Frustration of untapped Potential: Why WWE’s SmackDown Felt…Limited
It’s a familiar feeling for long-time wrestling fans: anticipation building for a major event, only to be met with a card that feels…sparse. Recently, SmackDown delivered a prime example of this, teasing compelling matchups that ultimately felt sidelined.Let’s break down why this approach is concerning adn what it signals about the current state of WWE’s presentation.
A Promising Match,A Missed Chance
A clash between Tommaso Ciampa and WWE United States Champion Ilja Dragunov promptly caught my attention. These are two incredibly talented performers, both with decorated histories in NXT. I’ve found that matches featuring former NXT champions often deliver a unique intensity and technical prowess.
However, the context surrounding this potential bout is what truly stings. this is Survivor Series weekend, a time for showcasing your biggest stars and delivering memorable moments. Yet, with a surprisingly thin card already announced, the decision to not elevate this match to the PLE feels like a important misstep.
The Survivor Series Card: Quantity vs.Quality?
Currently, the survivor Series lineup boasts just four confirmed matches.While quality is paramount, a card this lean feels underwhelming, especially considering the event is taking place in a large baseball stadium. You’d expect a more robust offering to fill the space and justify the ticket price.
Are we really to believe that adding one more compelling match is beyond WWE’s capabilities? I understand the desire to keep the show concise, but a single, well-placed bout could dramatically improve the overall experience.
The Erosion of Fan Expectations
This situation highlights a worrying trend. WWE seems to be conditioning fans to accept a bare minimum level of content. It’s a far cry from the days of packed cards and unpredictable surprises.
Consider this: the traditional 5-on-5 Survivor Series match, a staple of the event for decades, isn’t even guaranteed a spot on the PLE. This is unconscionable. Fans deserve more than a handful of matches interspersed with promotional segments.
Beyond the Card: A Call for Balance
I’ve always believed that wrestling thrives on a balance between spectacle and substance. While War Games matches are undoubtedly exciting, they can’t carry an entire show. We need more than just a few high-profile bouts.
Imagine the possibilities: a 15-minute showcase for Ciampa and dragunov, a 20-minute elimination match featuring compelling storylines. These are the moments that build excitement and leave a lasting impression.Instead, we’re left with an increasing number of advertisements for podcasts and cellular data plans.
Finding the Sweet Spot
Ultimately, wrestling fans are searching for a middle ground. AEW often delivers lengthy,action-packed shows,while WWE seems to be trending towards a more streamlined,almost minimalist approach. Surely,there’s a promotion out there that can strike a balance between these extremes.
You deserve a product that respects your time, your passion, and your investment. A product that consistently delivers compelling matches, engaging storylines, and a sense of genuine excitement. It’s time for WWE to recognize this and start building a Survivor Series – and a SmackDown – that truly lives up to its potential.
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