The blue brand just got the shot in the arm it desperately needed. For too long, SmackDown felt like an afterthought, struggling since leaving Fox for USA Network in early 2025 and that awkward jump to three hours. It was clear the show wasn't a priority, especially once Raw joined the Netflix family. But with CM Punk now holding the Undisputed WWE Championship, there's a real buzz back on Friday nights. The latest episode on July 10 showed serious promise.
The Main Event Scene Just Got Electrified
Let's be real, SmackDown's main event scene has been treading water. Cody Rhodes, for all his talent, had grown stagnant. Winning and losing the Undisputed WWE Championship three times in just two years, without a break from the top title picture, meant his crowd reactions were getting divided. He needed an overhaul, something fresh.
Enter CM Punk. Pairing these two up, especially since they've never had a major feud, is exactly what the doctor ordered. This isn't just a big SummerSlam draw, it changes the entire top card dynamic. A likely heel turn for one of them coming out of that match? Fascinating. Long-term, we need new names, but right now, Rhodes vs. Punk is must-see TV.
A GM In The Ring? That's Not Something You See Every Day.
It's not just the main event getting a jolt. Gunther, after losing three straight shots at the Undisputed WWE Championship, needed something big to regain momentum after that "Career Killer" run. While a rumored match with Royce Keys would've been fine, putting him against SmackDown general manager Nick Aldis is way more intriguing.
Aldis debuted as an on-screen authority figure nearly three years ago but hasn't stepped into a WWE ring. Fans know him from successful runs in TNA and NWA, so seeing him finally compete is a big deal. Gunther unleashing frustration on the GM makes sense, giving Aldis a chance to show what he can do. Their story is well told, and a SummerSlam match announcement feels imminent. A wrestling GM? That's rare on WWE TV, making it a compelling program.
One good week won't salvage everything. The tag team scene still needs major restructuring, and Danhausen's presence needs to be minimal. But the building blocks are absolutely there. SmackDown is finally showing the promise we've been waiting for, and with SummerSlam on the horizon, things are looking up for the blue brand.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.