Sun Jan 25 02:30:00 UTC 2026: # SmackDown Sees Title Changes, Betrayals, and a Viper’s Strike

The Story: Friday Night SmackDown on January 23, 2026, was a night of significant developments, featuring a United States Championship defense, a Women’s Championship match, and a shocking Tag Team Title change. Carmelo Hayes retained his United States Championship amidst interference from The Miz, while Jade Cargill dominated Chelsea Green. The MFTs, led by Solo Sikoa, captured the WWE Tag Team Championship from The Wyatt Sicks. The main event between Trick Williams and Damian Priest ended in chaos, culminating in a double RKO from Randy Orton.

Key Points:

  • Carmelo Hayes defeated Ilja Dragunov to retain the United States Championship, with The Miz interfering.
  • Jade Cargill defeated Chelsea Green in a non-title match.
  • The MFTs (Solo Sikoa & Tama Tonga) defeated The Wyatt Sicks to win the WWE Tag Team Championship.
  • Nathan Frazer defeated Johnny Gargano after Candice LeRae mistakenly attacked her husband.
  • Giulia & Kiana James became the No. 1 Contenders for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship.
  • Damian Priest vs. Trick Williams ended in a no-contest after Sami Zayn’s interference, followed by Randy Orton delivering RKOs to both.

Critical Analysis: The interference by The Miz in the United States Championship match suggests a potential feud between Hayes and Miz moving forward. The Tag Team Title change indicates a strong push for Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga, possibly setting them up as dominant heels on SmackDown. Randy Orton’s attack on both Williams and Zayn points towards a potential rivalry involving all three individuals. The Royal Rumble declaration made by Roman Reigns suggests he wants to be added to Wrestlemania main event.

Key Takeaways:

  • The United States Championship picture is becoming increasingly complex with the involvement of The Miz.
  • The MFTs are now a force to be reckoned with in the SmackDown tag team division.
  • Randy Orton’s return continues to make waves, establishing him as a key player on SmackDown.
  • The women’s tag team division is heating up with Giulia & Kiana James as new contenders.
  • Betrayal and interference continue to be major themes driving storylines on SmackDown.

Impact Analysis: The rise of The MFTs could significantly alter the tag team landscape on SmackDown, potentially leading to a long and dominant reign. Randy Orton’s actions hint at a significant program leading into WrestleMania, potentially involving multiple top stars. The continued push of newer talents like Giulia and Kiana James indicates a long-term strategy to revitalize the women’s divisions and create fresh matchups. With Roman Reigns declaring for the Royal Rumble, and Wrestlemania season coming soon, the landscape of WWE is expected to shift greatly in the following weeks.

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