WWE SmackDown Live emanated from Worcester, Massachusetts last night. The Smackdown brand side going into Money in the Bank became more clear to be much more anticipated. Since the “Superstar Shakeup,” SmackDown is getting better each week compared to Raw.

   SmackDown kicks off with The Miz and Miz Tv. Guest on this episode of Miz Tv is “The New Day” (Kofi Kingston, Big E, & Xavier Woods).

   Last week, “The New Day” won their tag team match against “The Bar” (Cesaro & Sheamus). With that win, “The New Day” is able to pick a member to qualify for the men’s Money in the Bank ladder match.

   Rather than get a definitive answer of which member of which “New Day” member will be that entrant. However, Miz TV created the first contest of the night is made between The Miz and Big E.

Big E v. The Miz

   The Miz is arguably one of the most improved in ring competitors on the roster. He already has the mic ability, but now has been steadily increasing his in-ring ability to make himself a more complete competitor.

   This match was a great opening to SmackDown. With outside interference from “The Bar” Miz was able to hit “The Skull Crushing Finale” for the win and increased his momentum towards Money in the Bank.

   The announcers state that Big Cass was injured during the European tour and will not compete in his men’s Money in the Bank qualifying match. SmackDown General Manager Paige announces a second chance qualifying match for later in the night between United States Champion Jeff Hardy and Daniel Bryan.

Lana v. Billie Kay (Women’s Money in the Bank Qualifier)

   In the first of two women’s Money in the Bank qualifying matches, Lana hits a huge kick to the head and then a “FaceBuster” for her first singles match win in her career and qualified herself for the women’s Money in the Bank ladder match.

   Since Lana has reunited with her husband Rusev and his tag team partner Aiden English, Lana has been on a roll. She is heading towards the right direction to being a major player in the women’s division.

Andrade “Cien” Almas v. Local Talent

   In another quick yet impressive match, Andrade hits his “Hammerlock DDT” for the win. His manager Zelina Vega demands better competition, yet Andrade still faces local enhancement talent. Which leads to the question of how will they make sure they get better competition?

   Last week, with Shinsuke Nakamura defeating WWE Champion AJ Styles, even though with underhanded tactics, got to choose the stipulation for their championship match at Money in the Bank. During their face to face confrontation, Shinsuke Nakamura played mind games to try to throw off AJ.

   The two then brawled to the outside where AJ let loose his pent up frustration over Shinsuke’s underhanded tactics, until, Shinsuke hits AJ with a steel chair and  hit a “Kinshasa” knocking AJ out for a ten count. This led to Shinsuke choosing that their match at Money in the Bank is a Last Man Standing.

Luke Gallows and Karl Anderson v. The Usos (Jimmy and Jey)

   The tag team division makes a return after seeming to be absent from the last few weeks. After an intriguing matchup between the two teams, Gallows and Anderson hit “The Magic Killer” for the win.

   Gallows and Anderson are now number 1 contenders for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships. They will face the Bludgeon Brothers (Harper and Rowan) at Money in the Bank for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships.

Naomi v Sonya Deville (Women’s Money in the Bank Qualifier)

   In an unexpected qualifying match, Naomi rolls Sonya up for the win, sending herself to Money in the Bank. Naomi has not really made an appearance since involving herself in her husband’s(Jimmy Uso) feud with The Bludgeon Brothers. Hopefully this helps Naomi get more air time since she did win the women’s battle royal at WrestleMania over a month ago.

Daniel Bryan v Jeff Hardy(Winner faces Samoa Joe next week for the last Money in the Bank Spot)

   A dream match is an understatement when it comes to these two competitors. In the best match of the night, Daniel hit his “Heel Hook” for the submission victory. The match lived up to the hype and brought the best out of both men.

   Daniel now has is eyes set on next week with Samoa Joe. Another dream matchup between two of the best wrestlers in the world. Anticipation is building between another must see contest next week.

David Jacobus
Intern