The latest WWE SmackDown delivered a major night of championship drama from Cleveland, with CM Punk defending the Undisputed WWE Championship against hometown favorite Johnny Gargano in the main event. The episode also advanced several storylines heading into the weekend.
Main Event: CM Punk vs. Johnny Gargano
CM Punk defeated Johnny Gargano to retain the Undisputed WWE Championship. The match became increasingly chaotic as Sami Zayn, Kevin Owens, GUNTHER and Finn Bálor became involved at ringside.
After surviving Gargano, Punk turned his attention toward Sami Zayn, setting up a championship match for next week’s SmackDown in Mexico City.
Women’s Division
Charlotte Flair & Tatum Paxley defeated Fatal Influence in a non-title tag-team match. Their partnership continued to gain momentum.
Meanwhile, Chelsea Green was medically cleared to continue defending the WWE Women’s Championship while wearing a protective mask. Nia Jax confronted Green and ultimately attacked her and Tiffany Stratton. Jax has been set for a title match with Green next week.
Tag Team Action
Bakusai — Shinsuke Nakamura & Kyoki — defeated The Miz & Kit Wilson. It marked Kyoki’s WWE in-ring debut after his arrival alongside Nakamura.
Other developments
Nia Jax defeated Tiffany Stratton.
Paige and Nikki Bella continued their increasingly personal rivalry.
Cody Rhodes and Randy Orton continued their verbal confrontation ahead of their upcoming showdown.
Giulia attacked Blake Monroe before their scheduled match, preventing the bout from taking place.
