The recent brand rivalry during the classic Survivor Series has brought WWE Raw’s Seth Rollins, Paul Heyman, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed to kick off an episode of "WWE Smackdown," aiming to assert their influence over the Blue Brand. The appearance of AEW’s Death Riders and similar "savior" factions reflects Rollins’ relentless defense of "true" wrestling, even amidst ungrateful name drops like CM Punk. Their first segment appeared deliberately antagonistic, signaling their intent to reshape the "Smackdown" locker room. They made a bold statement by targeting LA Knight during his match against Aleister Black, continuing the disruption in the Blue Brand’s domain. Their second segment was unmistakably hostile: they were determined to make their mark.
While these segments may feel repetitive, the new dynamics with Rollins’ "salvation" faction still intrigued some fans. Breakker and Reed exhibited a renewed sense of purpose, and it was entertaining to observe Heyman guiding Rollins as a potent mouthpiece. However, their value hinges on the originality they bring, as stale routines risk overshadowing them in the rapidly shifting landscape of wrestling. It was perplexing and frustrating when they chose to reopen a segment in the same ring so soon instead of exploring varied storylines. The potential for new content was lost, especially when the women’s Money in the Bank participants received minimal spotlight. WWE seems to be pushing for the much-anticipated Rollins/Cody Rhodes confrontation, yet with so little dialogue exchanged, they could have easily set up an engaging segment backstage or on the ramp.
Heyman shouldn’t have to fill airtime with repetitive dialogue; that’s my job.
Written by Angeline Phu
Fan Take: This news is significant for wrestling fans as it highlights the importance of innovation and fresh storytelling in an ever-evolving industry. The potential for unique matchups and dynamics is crucial, as it keeps audiences engaged and eager for what’s next in the world of wrestling.
