WWE SmackDown Just Got Personal: Cody Rhodes vs. Aleister Black in a Match You Won’t Forget
November 7, 2025
Bon Secours Wellness Arena – Greenville, SC
By: John Kleinchester (https://bsky.app/profile/jkleinchester.bsky.social)
SmackDown Live from Greenville kicked off with a bold statement from Cody Rhodes, fresh off his victory over Drew McIntyre at Saturday Night’s Main Event. Rhodes didn’t hold back, labeling McIntyre as the most self-sabotaging wrestler in the history of the sport. With that chapter closed, Rhodes declared he was ready to move on—and tonight, he’d be sitting among the fans, letting them decide who should challenge him next for the WWE Championship. But here’s where it gets controversial... Aleister Black, accompanied by Zelina Vega, interrupted the celebration. Black claimed he had a chip on his shoulder the size of the WWE title itself, while Vega boldly declared, “Your nightmare begins now,” before slapping Rhodes across the face. General Manager Nick Aldis, once again without a main event, seized the moment and made Cody Rhodes vs. Aleister Black official for later that night. And this is the part most people miss: Could this match be the start of a bitter rivalry, or will it fizzle out before it even begins? Only time will tell.
United States Championship: Dragunov Retains in a Hard-Fought Battle
Earlier in the night, Ilja Dragunov defended his United States Championship in an open challenge. Backstage, Tama Tonga stared down Dragunov, but it was Johnny Gargano who stepped up to the plate. Tommaso Ciampa, still bitter about being passed over the previous week, confronted Dragunov, only to be brushed aside again. Gargano brought the fight, delivering a stiff kick to Dragunov’s head and a Poisonrana for a near fall. But here’s the twist: Candice LeRae’s interference backfired, giving Dragunov the opening he needed. A Superplex followed by the H-Bomb sealed the deal, with Dragunov retaining the title in 10:55. Later, Fraxiom mocked DIY’s ongoing struggles, calling Ciampa a “jackass,” adding fuel to an already fiery feud.
Backstage Drama: Zayn, Truth, and the Cena Tournament
In other backstage developments, Sami Zayn pleaded with Nick Aldis to be at ringside for Rey Fenix’s match against Talla Tonga, but Aldis firmly denied the request, citing Zayn’s lack of medical clearance. Meanwhile, R-Truth hilariously inquired about the tumbler being used for the John Cena “The Last Time is Now” Tournament, insisting his name be included. Aldis revealed Truth was already in the mix, leaving him both surprised and excited.
Women’s Division Heats Up: Jade Cargill Sends a Message
New WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill made her presence felt, addressing the locker room with a chilling warning: “You all saw what happened to Tiffany. That goes for everyone. I’m that bitch.” But here’s where it gets controversial: As Cargill crossed paths with Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss, tensions flared. Chelsea Green, fresh off her AAA Mixed Tag title win, was confronted by B-Fab and Michin, who claimed she could never beat Giulia. Green fired back, declaring she’d be the greatest SmackDown champion ever—only to be interrupted by Cargill, who threatened to “stomp a hole through her chest.” The segment ended with Green squaring off against B-Fab, setting up a match for next week.
Charlotte Flair vs. Nia Jax: A Showdown of Titans
The night continued with Charlotte Flair taking on Nia Jax, with Alexa Bliss in her corner. This match was a testament to the raw power and skill of both competitors, but Flair’s experience ultimately prevailed. And this is the part most people miss: Could this victory set Flair on a collision course with Jade Cargill? The women’s division is more unpredictable than ever.
Final Thoughts: A Night of High Stakes and Higher Emotions
SmackDown Live from Greenville delivered on all fronts, with matches that showcased the best of WWE’s talent and storylines that left fans buzzing. But here’s the question we’re all asking: Who will step up next to challenge Cody Rhodes for the WWE Championship? And can anyone stop Jade Cargill’s dominant reign? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—we want to hear from you!
