SmackDown Before SNME: Winners, Key Moments, And Match Grades From Tampa

David

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Post on May 25, 2025

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SmackDown Before SNME: Winners, Key Moments, and Match Grades from Tampa

The WWE Universe in Tampa, Florida was electrifying this past Friday night as SmackDown delivered a thrilling show, setting the stage for Saturday's spectacular Survivor Series WarGames event (SNME). The energy was palpable, with several key moments shaping the narratives heading into the weekend's main event. Let's dive into the night's winners, pivotal moments, and a comprehensive breakdown of the match quality.

Key Moments that Defined the Night:

• The Bloodline Implodes (Again): The ongoing saga of The Bloodline continued its dramatic trajectory. While a full-blown implosion didn't occur, the cracks widened significantly. Sami Zayn's unwavering loyalty was tested, and the simmering tension between Roman Reigns and Jey Uso threatened to boil over at any moment. This storyline continues to be a major draw, keeping fans on the edge of their seats and driving viewership. Expect this to be a major talking point leading into and throughout SNME.

• Rhea Ripley's Dominance: The "Mami" showed why she's a dominant force in the WWE. Her performance showcased her undeniable power and charisma, leaving no doubt about her readiness for the challenges ahead at Survivor Series WarGames. Ripley's continued success is vital for the women's division, and her presence on SmackDown only amplified the anticipation for her WarGames match.

• The Brawling Brutes vs. Imperium: This hard-hitting encounter highlighted the intensity and athleticism of both teams. The match served as a perfect showcase for the talent involved and further fueled the rivalry between these two factions. The match itself was a testament to the high level of in-ring action WWE continues to deliver.

Match Grades & Winners:

Here's a breakdown of the matches and their respective grades:

Detailed Match Analysis:

• Rhea Ripley vs. Shotzi: Ripley's complete dominance made this a showcase for her power and ruthlessness. Shotzi put up a valiant fight, but Ripley's victory was never in doubt. This match effectively positioned Ripley as a top contender going into Survivor Series WarGames.

• The Brawling Brutes vs. Imperium: This match was a back-and-forth battle that showcased the strength and teamwork of both teams. The high-octane action kept the crowd engaged throughout. The win for the Brawling Brutes further establishes them as a force to be reckoned with.

• Braun Strowman vs. LA Knight: A physical showdown that highlighted Strowman's power. Knight's charisma and resilience were on full display, but Strowman's overwhelming strength proved to be too much to overcome.

• Kevin Owens & Drew McIntyre vs. The Usos: This tag team match was the highlight of the night. The incredible chemistry between Owens and McIntyre, coupled with the undeniable star power of The Usos, delivered a thrilling encounter. Their victory sets a significant tone heading into the SNME event.

Overall Impression:

SmackDown before SNME delivered a strong show, building anticipation for Survivor Series WarGames. The storylines were advanced effectively, and the matches provided excellent in-ring action. The show successfully created a buzz for the weekend's main event. Are you excited for Survivor Series WarGames? Let us know in the comments below! Don't forget to check out our other WWE coverage for more news and analysis!