WWE SmackDown March 20 Episode Delivers High-Octane Action from Raleigh
The Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina, played host to an electrifying episode of WWE SmackDown on March 20, featuring three major championship matches, intense rivalries, and shocking alliances. The night was packed with drama, from a violent opening segment to unexpected title changes and personal revelations.
Chaotic Opening Sets the Tone
The show kicked off with a brutal confrontation as Drew McIntyre deliberately crashed his car into Jacob Fatu's vehicle before launching a physical assault. Officials intervened to stop the fight, prompting General Manager Nick Aldis to cancel their scheduled match. However, tensions escalated further when Fatu returned to the arena, reigniting the brawl and setting a chaotic tone for the evening.
Tag Team Championships Change Hands in Dramatic Fashion
In a match for the WWE Tag Team Championships, Damian Priest and R-Truth faced off against the MFTs. The bout showcased exceptional tag team chemistry until Uncle Howdy and his Wyatt Sicks faction intervened, preventing other MFTs from interfering. Amid the chaos, R-Truth executed an Attitude Adjustment on Tama Tonga, securing the victory and crowning himself and Priest as the new WWE Tag Team Champions.
Other Key Matches and Moments
The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelly and Chris Sabin) triumphed over Fraxiom (Nathan Frazer and Axiom) in a high-energy tag team match, thanks to interference from Candice LeRae. In a singles showdown, Sami Zayn fell to Aleister Black after a distraction from Trick Williams, who threw a drink and attacked Williams, leading to Zayn eating a Black Mass finisher.
Carmelo Hayes successfully defended his WWE United States Championship against Ilja Dragunov in a match that drew loud cheers and "This is Awesome" chants from the audience. Hayes sealed the win with his signature First 48 move, retaining the title in a hard-fought battle.
Women's Tag Team Championship Match Ends in Disqualification
The Bella Twins challenged Nia Jax and Lash Legend for the WWE Women's Tag Team Championships, with Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss watching ringside. The match ended in a disqualification after Flair struck Jax following an altercation. Jax and Legend stood tall by taking out both teams, concluding the show on a dominant note.
Personal Revelations and Alliances
Randy Orton made headlines by stating he needs to become a "killer" to defeat Cody Rhodes, hinting at a darker turn in their rivalry. Additionally, Jade Cargill revealed former rivals Michin and B-Fab as her new allies, signaling a strategic shift in her career. The episode also featured a poetry battle between Jelly Roll and Kit Wilson, adding a unique entertainment element to the night.
