4 takeaways from SmackDown this week – Jade Cargill’s future; new champions at WrestleMania 40? & more

This week, SmackDown announced the addition of a new match to the WrestleMania 40 match card, and another challenge was presented.

Despite the absence of Roman Reigns and The Rock, Jade Cargill still managed to make a significant impact on the WWE Universe. Additionally, two new tag teams secured their spots in the upcoming tag title match next week.

Now, let’s explore some of the important lessons we can take away from this week’s events on the blue brand:

#4. New Catch Republic emerges as top contender for WrestleMania 40 after impressive SmackDown victory

The New Catch Republic, consisting of Tyler Bate and Pete Dunne, displayed an impressive performance in their fight against The Judgment Day at Elimination Chamber.

Despite being newcomers to SmackDown, the WWE Universe was quickly warming up to Tyler Bate while Pete Dunne revived his bruiserweight persona. The two had already gained popularity on NXT UK and were well-acquainted with each other’s styles.

This week, New Catch Republic secured their spot in the Six-Pack Tag Team Ladder Match at WrestleMania 40 by defeating Legado Del Fantasma’s Berto and Angel. The WWE Universe was thrilled with their victory and it is clear that they have a strong following among fans.

#3. Solo Sikoa’s potential face turn: A possibility for the future?

Since becoming a part of the main roster in 2022, Solo Sikoa has rarely spoken. However, during his time in NXT, he was known for his fierce verbal attacks on his opponents.

During the most recent episode of SmackDown, Paul Heyman addressed the incidents that occurred on Monday Night RAW with Cody Rhodes and alleged that Roman Reigns had given the order for the beatdown. The camera then focused on Jimmy Uso, who announced that Jey Uso would be facing Sikoa next week before their anticipated match at WrestleMania.

The Enforcer fulfilled his brother’s orders by sending a strong message to Jey Uso, warning him to be on high alert as he was prepared to take him out at the behest of The Tribal Chief. As it stands, Sikoa is the sole member of The Bloodline who is not slated to compete at The Show of Shows.

It has been some time since Jey Uso and Solo Sikoa have had a chance to interact without the rest of their family present. If Jey is able to reach out to his younger brother before WrestleMania, he could potentially assist him in securing a victory and possibly even turning him into a fan favorite.

#2. The Rise of Pretty Deadly on SmackDown

Despite being on the main roster for just a year, Pretty Deadly has already made a huge impact with their NXT run. They recently participated in a tag team title contender match, showcasing their entertaining antics that kept the audience on their toes.

Despite appearing to connect with the WWE Universe, Elton Prince’s shoulder injury forced the duo out of action. However, they were still able to make a few appearances in backstage and pre-taped segments.

In their latest match on SmackDown, Randy Orton and Kevin Owens were defeated by the team, thanks to some interference from Logan Paul. If WWE keeps giving them opportunities, this duo could soon be contenders for the tag team championship.

#1. WWE’s Strategic Promotion of Jade Cargill to Superstar Status

Jade Cargill made her debut on SmackDown, where she signed a contract and made a huge statement to the women’s division. The episode ended with her joining forces with Bianca Belair and Naomi to take on Damage CTRL. Shortly after, it was announced that a Six-Woman Tag Team match would take place at WrestleMania 40.

After collaborating with AEW for one year, Cargill’s time with the promotion came to an end last year. In September 2023, she officially joined WWE and made her highly-anticipated in-ring debut at Royal Rumble. WWE has been building up her arrival since she signed with them the previous year. At Fastlane 2023, Cargill, who was previously the TBS Champion, was warmly welcomed by Triple H backstage.

Many of the current talents in WWE have been developed within the company. The amount of focus and attention given to a non-NXT talent like Cargill is a testament to her influence. She has already started off strongly, with her second match scheduled for WrestleMania 40.