WWE SmackDown Review: Highlights and Low Points from December 19, 2025
Welcome to our weekly recap of "WWE SmackDown" at Wrestling Inc. This holiday season edition was entirely pre-recorded. For those who enjoy spoilers, next week’s show appears more promising, but there’s still much to discuss from this episode, notably Damian Priest’s opening segment and the main event tag title match.
If you missed the show and want a complete rundown, check our "SmackDown" results page. This column provides our insights and reactions to the key moments of the December 19 episode. Here are three things we loved and hated.
Hated: Ongoing Feud Between Priest and Black
I realize I should work on suspending disbelief while watching, which can be challenging in my role. Damian Priest recently mentioned he was cutting down on his WWE schedule due to injuries, yet the rivalry with Aleister Black seems far from over.
The feud kicked off with Priest thanking John Cena, only to be interrupted by Black, leading to a chaotic brawl. Weapons were introduced, hinting at another hardcore match ahead. While I recognize Priest’s talent, it feels odd that he’s jumping right back into a match type shortly after discussing his physical state.
Favorite: The Women’s Tag Division Outshines the Men’s
As 2025 winds down, the women’s tag team division has been a significant highlight, especially with Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss defending their titles effectively. They had a remarkable 100-day reign, taking on various teams and dropping the titles only recently.
While the women’s teams continue to impress, the men’s division lacks the same dynamism, with perpetual champions like the Wyatts rarely defending their titles. As we approach WrestleMania, let’s hope the women’s division keeps the spotlight.
Favorite: Mero and Dragunov Shine in Tag Match
Although next week’s spoilers are avoided here, this week’s tag match featuring Ilya Dragunov and Carmelo Hayes against #DIY was a fantastic build-up. It was refreshing to see a break from the U.S. Open Challenge, allowing for a more engaging storyline after several weeks of tension.
The match showcased the robust tag team division on "SmackDown," a rare occurrence, and highlighted Hayes’s growing popularity as a fan-favorite.
Favorite: Codelander Emerges
Cody Rhodes, transitioning from AEW to WWE, has been a polarizing figure. After his significant title win, Rhodes’s recent confrontations suggest a possible character shift, as he clashes with Drew McIntyre and Nick Aldis, raising new tensions.
His character development hints at a more complex storyline, making it intriguing for fans invested in his journey.
Hated: Referee Stoppage During Main Event
The main event for the WWE Tag Team Championship fell flat, ending in a referee stoppage that left many disappointed. Although a brawl outside the arena broke out, the referee’s decision seemed unwarranted, especially for a title match.
The entire encounter felt dull and uninspired, with my focus drifting during the lackluster action.
Hated: Lackluster Show Overall
This week’s episode felt hollow, lacking the punch and excitement we’re accustomed to from "SmackDown." As the year wraps up, the reliance on repetitive storylines suggests the roster might benefit from a break and more creative time.
With match outcomes becoming predictable, such as Julia’s swift victory over Alba Fire, it appears there’s a pressing need for fresh storylines and talent development to keep fans engaged.
Fan Take:
This review highlights a turning point for WWE as it navigates familiar rivalries and explores potential character developments. For wrestling fans, these shifts could signal a need for deeper storytelling and innovations in the ring to assure sustained excitement in the coming year.
