WWE SmackDown Highlights: February 24, 2023 - Results & Recap

Hey wrestling fans! Get ready to dive into all the action from the February 24, 2023, episode of WWE SmackDown. We're breaking down all the major moments, shocking upsets, and intense rivalries that unfolded. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

Opening Segment: The Road to WrestleMania Heats Up

The show kicked off with a bang, setting the stage for WrestleMania! Roman Reigns, accompanied by The Bloodline, made his way to the ring. The crowd was electric, buzzing with anticipation as Reigns began to address his upcoming title defense. He reiterated his dominance and promised to smash whoever dared to challenge him. But, of course, things never go as planned, do they? The music hit, and out came…Sami Zayn! The arena erupted! Zayn, with fire in his eyes, confronted Reigns, reminding him of all the sacrifices he made for The Bloodline and how Reigns ultimately betrayed him. Their verbal exchange was intense, filled with personal attacks and promises of retribution. Zayn made it clear he was coming for the title, not just for himself, but to end Reigns' tyrannical reign. This segment was masterfully crafted, building the hype for their inevitable clash. It showcased Zayn's transformation from comedic relief to a legitimate threat and further solidified Reigns as the ultimate heel. The tension was palpable, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats, wondering what would happen next. The security had to separate them, making for a dramatic close to the segment. The energy was undeniable, a perfect start to SmackDown, promising an action-packed night. It truly set the tone for the rest of the show and highlighted the emotional depth of this bitter rivalry, making their eventual showdown all the more compelling.

Match 1: Gunther vs. Madcap Moss (Intercontinental Championship)

Our first match of the night saw Gunther defending his Intercontinental Championship against Madcap Moss. Gunther, known for his brutal and imposing presence, entered the ring with his usual air of confidence. Moss, on the other hand, brought his high energy and never-give-up attitude. The match started with a flurry of offense from Moss, who surprised Gunther with his agility and power. However, Gunther quickly regained control, using his superior strength and technical prowess to wear down Moss. The match was a classic David vs. Goliath story, with Moss trying to overcome Gunther's overwhelming advantage. There were several near falls, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. Moss showed incredible resilience, kicking out of multiple pin attempts and even managing to hit Gunther with some impressive moves. But in the end, Gunther's unrelenting offense proved too much for Moss. Gunther secured the win with his signature powerbomb, retaining his Intercontinental Championship. Despite the loss, Moss put on a valiant effort, proving that he's a force to be reckoned with in the SmackDown roster. Gunther's victory further cemented his status as one of the most dominant champions in WWE today. The match was a testament to both wrestlers' abilities, showcasing their strengths and drawing the audience into their narrative.

Backstage Brawl: Drew McIntyre and Sheamus vs. Viking Raiders

Chaos erupted backstage as Drew McIntyre and Sheamus engaged in a fierce brawl with the Viking Raiders. The animosity between these two teams has been brewing for weeks, and it finally reached a boiling point. The brawl spilled into the Gorilla Position and the hallway, involving several WWE personnel trying to separate the warring factions. McIntyre and Sheamus, known for their hard-hitting styles, were a formidable force, but the Viking Raiders, with their brute strength and relentless aggression, proved to be a worthy challenge. The fight was brutal, with both teams exchanging blows and using anything they could get their hands on as weapons. Tables were broken, chairs were smashed, and bodies were thrown around. The scene was one of absolute destruction. The brawl was eventually broken up by security, but the damage was done. This intense confrontation only served to fuel the fire between these two teams, setting the stage for a highly anticipated match down the line. The unpredictability of the brawl added an element of excitement to the show, reminding everyone that anything can happen in WWE. It showcased the raw intensity and passion that these wrestlers bring to their craft.

Match 2: Charlotte Flair vs. Shotzi

Charlotte Flair, the SmackDown Women's Champion, faced off against Shotzi in a non-title match. Flair, with her regal presence and unmatched athleticism, entered the ring as the clear favorite. Shotzi, known for her punk rock aesthetic and daredevil style, was determined to prove herself against the champion. The match was a contrast in styles, with Flair's technical precision clashing with Shotzi's high-flying offense. Shotzi came out strong, surprising Flair with her speed and agility. She hit Flair with several impressive moves, including a suicide dive and a DDT. However, Flair quickly regained control, using her superior strength and experience to wear down Shotzi. The match was a back-and-forth affair, with both women showcasing their skills and determination. There were several near falls, keeping the audience engaged. In the end, Flair secured the win with her signature Figure Eight Leglock, forcing Shotzi to tap out. Despite the loss, Shotzi put on a spirited performance, proving that she's a rising star in the SmackDown women's division. Flair's victory further solidified her status as one of the greatest female wrestlers of all time. The match was a showcase of women's wrestling, highlighting the athleticism, skill, and storytelling that make it so compelling.

Contract Signing: Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio

The tension was palpable as Rey Mysterio and Dominik Mysterio sat down for a contract signing. The bitter rivalry between father and son has been one of the most compelling storylines on SmackDown, and this segment promised to take things to the next level. Rey, with a heavy heart, expressed his disappointment in his son's actions. He pleaded with Dominik to see reason and to end their feud. Dominik, however, was unrepentant, spewing venom at his father and accusing him of holding him back. The verbal exchange was intense, filled with emotion and resentment. Dominik signed the contract for a match at WrestleMania, but not before launching another personal attack on Rey. Rey, finally reaching his breaking point, signed the contract as well, setting the stage for their inevitable showdown. The segment was masterfully acted, with both Rey and Dominik conveying their emotions with raw intensity. The personal nature of their feud made it all the more compelling, drawing the audience into their complex relationship. This contract signing was a pivotal moment in their storyline, setting the stage for what promises to be a highly emotional and unforgettable match at WrestleMania.

Main Event: Roman Reigns & Solo Sikoa vs. Sami Zayn & Kevin Owens

The main event of the night saw Roman Reigns and Solo Sikoa taking on Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens. This match was highly anticipated, given the history between all four men. Reigns and Sikoa, representing The Bloodline, entered the ring with their usual air of dominance. Zayn and Owens, former best friends who have reunited to take down Reigns, were determined to prove that they could overcome The Bloodline's tyranny. The match was an all-out war, with all four men giving it their all. The action was fast-paced and brutal, with several near falls and high-impact moves. Zayn and Owens worked well together, using their familiarity to their advantage. However, Reigns and Sikoa proved to be a formidable force, using their strength and ruthlessness to wear down their opponents. The match was filled with twists and turns, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The tension was high, as everyone knew that this match could have major implications for WrestleMania. In the end, after a grueling battle, Sami Zayn pinned Roman Reigns! The crowd erupted! It was a stunning victory for Zayn and Owens, sending a clear message to The Bloodline that they are not to be underestimated. This win not only boosted their momentum heading into WrestleMania but also cast doubt on Reigns' invincibility. The match was a fitting end to an action-packed episode of SmackDown, leaving fans eagerly anticipating what will happen next.

So there you have it, folks! A complete rundown of the February 24, 2023, episode of WWE SmackDown. What were your favorite moments? Let us know in the comments below!