5 Things Triple H Got Right on WWE SmackDown This Week

The road to SummerSlam ran through Oklahoma City last night as WWE delivered an explosive episode of SmackDown from the Paycom Center. Ever since getting back to its two-hour format, the blue brand has been operating on a different level. Packed with several high-voltage confrontations and blockbuster matches, last night’s show added an adrenaline shot for The Biggest Party of the Summer.

Not only did the feuds and storylines get a major boost, but WWE also made a long-awaited dream match official for SummerSlam 2026. Besides, fans witnessed a shocking return on SmackDown that had been rumored for quite some time. There are plenty of noteworthy moments coming out of this week’s show that had the internet buzzing with speculation about what could happen next.

Here are five things Triple H got right on SmackDown this week:

#5. Finn Balor makes a bold statement

Finn Balor and Tama Tonga were involved in backstage altercations for the past few weeks on SmackDown. Last night, the two superstars battled each other in a one-on-one match, with both looking to make a statement. It was an incredible bout filled with several hard-hitting sequences and near-falls. Even though Talla Tonga tried to cause ringside shenanigans, Balor still managed to secure a huge victory.

Triple H made the right call because The Prince has been looking for a defining moment since arriving on the blue brand. By defeating a formidable rival, Finn Balor not only asserted his dominance but also positioned himself as a major player aiming for the top of the card. This victory was much-needed for the 44-year-old as he made it pretty clear that his ultimate goal is the Undisputed WWE Championship.

#4. The Bloodline civil war explodes on SmackDown

This week on SmackDown, the Bloodline saga reached a boiling point, giving rise to an interesting situation. Brothers turned rivals, friendships turned sour and emotions reached a dramatic point. The family civil war pitted Jacob Fatu and Royce Keys, the two longtime friends, against each other because The Samoan Werewolf found himself stuck between friendship and loyalty.

Fatu was therefore forced to sacrifice one bond to salvage the other. But what added more to the drama was the striking evolution of Solo Sikoa and his character. The man who once relied on cheap tactics and cowardice stood tall, fighting his own blood head-on. The lines of loyalty have officially blurred, sending the Bloodline saga spilling over into uncharted, riveting territory.

#3. The Lone Wolf has returned home

Whispers of Baron Corbin’s return were swirling on the internet for quite some time now, and this week the rumors finally came true. The Lone Wolf made a blockbuster return on SmackDown, sending the WWE Universe into a frenzy. But the best part was how it unfolded. Corbin invaded the match between Carmelo Hayes and Trick Williams and attacked both superstars who were in the United States Championship picture.

By putting Baron Corbin in a high-profile program, Triple H has successfully revitalized his presentation and has reestablished him as a credible threat. Besides, the decision to have him on the blue brand was the best call, as Friday Night SmackDown is the brand where The Lone Wolf once ruled. Hence, Corbin’s homecoming adds another compelling layer to the roster, offering fresh matchups and storylines.

#2. Setting up CM Punk vs. Cody Rhodes for SummerSlam

CM Punk and Cody Rhodes came face-to-face on SmackDown for the first time since RAW after WrestleMania 42. However, the tables had completely turned. This time, the Undisputed WWE Championship rested on Punk’s shoulder and instead of Rhodes, he was the one with a black eye. WWE used this blockbuster confrontation to finally pull the trigger on the long-awaited dream match that was years in the making.

The way this match became official with just a mere exchange of words could be debatable. However, the fact that Triple H finally decided to book this marquee showdown for SummerSlam is the best call. Cody Rhodes and CM Punk are now set to collide in a high-profile match for the Undisputed WWE Championship. It is a true mainevent event-worthy bout, perfect to headline The Biggest Party of the Summer in Minneapolis.

#1. Gunther’s rampage leaves Nick Aldis decimated

One of the biggest highlights of this week’s SmackDown was Gunther destroying Nick Aldis. The Ring General unleashed a savage attack on the General Manager in the closing moments of the show, choking him in his submission hold multiple times. It wasn’t just an attack; it was a brutal punishment inflicted on Aldis for his partiality. And let’s be honest, the GM had it coming. Nick Aldis’ questionable decision-making and perceived injustices towards the roster finally caught up to him in the worst possible way.

Instead of booking Cody Rhodes and Gunther for a Number Contenders Match for the Undisputed WWE Title, he simply handed Cody a match against CM Punk at SummerSlam. Therefore, Gunther attacking the GM out of frustration made perfect sense. But the main reason why this was the right call is that The Ring General’s attack might finally invoke the wrestler that’s lying dormant within Nick Aldis, forcing him to shed his corporate suit and lace up his boots for his in-ring return.