The Uber Arena in Berlin, Germany, witnessed an unforgettable night of high-octane action and stunning twists as WWE SmackDown kicked off its European tour on January 9. The event was headlined by a monumental championship clash that ended with a dramatic title change and the shocking return of a feared superstar.
New Stars Shine and Titles Defended
The evening began with the iconic Randy Orton making his entrance to a roaring German crowd, only to be confronted by the confident newcomer, Trick Williams. This confrontation set the stage for Williams' first main roster match against the high-flying Rey Fenix. Williams secured his debut victory using shrewd tactics, marking a successful start to his SmackDown career.
In championship action, Giulia successfully defended her WWE Women's United States Title against Alexa Bliss. The match saw interference from Lash Legend, who helped Giulia retain with her Northern Lights powerbomb. Meanwhile, Carmelo Hayes overcame a fierce challenge from the veteran Shinsuke Nakamura to retain his United States Championship, hitting his signature Nothing but Miss for the win.
Debuts and Dominant Performances
The blue brand officially welcomed powerhouse Jordynne Grace, who made a strong statement by defeating Alba Fyre with a devastating torture rack powerbomb. Her victory celebration was short-lived, however, as she was immediately confronted by the imposing Jade Cargill. In a chaotic eight-man tag team war, The Wyatt Sicks fell to the MFTs after Solo Sikoa's distraction with Uncle Howdy's lantern allowed Talla Tonga to score the pin.
The Three Stages of Hell: Chaos and a New Champion
The main event was a gruelling Three Stages of Hell match for the Undisputed WWE Championship between Cody Rhodes and Drew McIntyre. The first fall, a standard match, went to McIntyre after a low blow and a Claymore. Rhodes battled back to win the second fall, a Falls Count Anywhere brawl, by delivering a Cross Rhodes through the announcer's desk.
The decisive third fall inside a Steel Cage reached a fever pitch. Just as both warriors were exhausted, Jacob Fatu made a shocking return, attacking both champion and challenger. As Fatu brawled with Rhodes, Drew McIntyre seized the opportunity to escape the cage, winning the match and crowning himself the new Undisputed WWE Champion.
The night in Berlin will be remembered for this stunning conclusion, setting a dramatic new course for WWE SmackDown as Drew McIntyre begins his reign and the landscape shifts with Jacob Fatu's violent return.
