Clash in Paris 2025 - Smackdown Fallout

How’s It Going, Enthusiasts?

Happy Friday! So, the Wrestling World has a few things going on. Many of us are “getting our arms twisted” with having to pick up the ESPN app. I’ll probably breakdown next week but I got to see where I can streamline first. Probably going to let Peacock go but we’ll see if it can be saved. It does have some decent content outside of WWE. Yet, I digress. Let’s get into this week’s action.

In the Realm of AEW all seems to be going nicely as Darby Allin appears to have put all 45 pounds of himself into becoming a one man wrecking machine against the Riders of Death. He dragged off “The Hooligan”, Gabe Kidd in a body bag hitched to the back of a truck so he means to make an example of anyone he can get his hands on. Meanwhile, Jon Moxley has his eye on recruiting the “naive” Daniel Garcia. Not sure he’s the type to break but stranger things have happened.

All in all, this is great for the Future because currently no one has eyes on it which is absolutely perfect. This is as it should be for the time being. We’ll see if it starts to unfold next year.

In the wilds of the Indies, Matt Riddle is continuing to prove I had him pegged right by displaying he’s no master of tact or common courtesy. I won’t go into it ‘cause I don’t think the man is worth the time or words but I will say that I feel vindicated in giving him an emphatic thumbs down. That guy just doesn’t get it and more importantly, doesn’t seem to want to. Let him learn the hard way.

In the WWE Universe, the talk is all about the “anticipated” return of AJ Lee. With the storyline of CM Punk and Lord Seth Rollins coming to another pivotal juncture, speculation is that Punk will bring in his wife, Lee, to take on the likes of Rollins and Lady Becky Lynch. Many feel with the ESPN acquisition of WWE PLEs/PPVs there’s more incentive for WWE to make Lee some sort of deal she can’t refuse to get her active again. This is one of the reasons I may be breaking down sooner than later to get the app. 

However, quite a few think this is just talk and/or wishful thinking and expect Rhea Ripley to provide backup for Punk instead, either her or Roxanne Perez. It’s all up to Lee, here. If she wants to do it, I’m sure the way will be cleared for that to happen. If she doesn’t, expect a substitute to step in. So, if this is what’s forcing your hand to get the ESPN app, make sure you’re fine with Lee not showing up first. It could very well happen. 

Regardless, we should get some more insight from tonight’s SmackDown Clash in Paris Fallout. It’s in Chicago tonight, so you know Punk kinda, has-ta factor. We can also expect Mia Yim to try to payback Giulia for last week. Damian Priest will see if Aleister Black still has a problem. Sami Zayn will take a little time to enjoy being the United States Champion. And John Cena will tell us how he plans to wrap up his retirement tour. 

The unofficial watch party will start at 8pm PDT. I don’t have to cook this evening so, I’ll be getting myself comfortable around then. You’re always welcome to join me if you have the time and nothing else better to do.

See You in a Bit,

-Nicole Alexis (^_~)