WWE SmackDown Results October 17 2023 Ilja Dragunov Makes Triumphant Return to Capture Championship
This week’s WWE SmackDown featured significant events stemming from WWE Crown Jewel. A key highlight of the evening was the highly anticipated return of Ilja Dragunov, who made his comeback to secure a championship victory.
Ilja Dragunov’s Triumphant Return
During the episode, an open challenge for the United States Championship was announced by General Manager Nick Aldis. The Miz aimed to respond to this challenge, condemning the recent state of the title as “unacceptable.” However, Carmelo Hayes launched an attack on him before he could reach the ring.
Ilja Dragunov was ultimately revealed as Sami Zayn’s opponent, marking his return following a significant injury. Last year, Dragunov suffered a torn ACL during a match against Gunther, which abruptly halted his rising career. There had been extensive speculation on social media regarding his comeback.
In a thrilling match filled with near falls and close calls, Solo Sikoa’s unexpected appearance served as a distraction for Zayn, allowing Dragunov to seize the moment and claim victory. This win represents Dragunov’s first WWE championship since losing the NXT Championship last spring.
Wyatt Sicks Confront MFT
After the conclusion of Zayn versus Dragunov, a confrontation ensued between MFT and the Wyatt Sicks. Rey Fenix attempted to intercede but was overwhelmed by MFT. The lights dimmed, and the Wyatt Sicks made their entrance, signaling the start of a potential feud, possibly leading to Survivor Series: WarGames.
Aleister Black Discusses His Alliance
Aleister Black addressed the newly formed alliance with Zelina Vega in a vignette. He revealed that their partnership has been in the making for several months. Black, whose AEW contract ended in February, re-signed with WWE in April. He described their bond as a “necessary evil,” and Vega echoed his sentiments, suggesting their alliance was a strategic crime based on calculated movements.
Main Event Brawl: McIntyre vs. Rhodes
The main event was initially set to feature Jacob Fatu battling Drew McIntyre for the No. 1 Contender’s position for the Undisputed WWE Championship. However, Fatu was mysteriously attacked backstage, preventing him from competing. McIntyre, smiling and eager, asserted his right to the match by default.
General Manager Aldis indicated consequences for McIntyre’s involvement, prompting Cody Rhodes to challenge McIntyre despite not being in ring shape. What followed was an intense brawl, with Rhodes showing a more aggressive demeanor. The action spilled outside the ring, leading to Rhodes hitting McIntyre with the championship belt. This aggression led to a disqualification, resulting in officials stepping in to separate the two wrestlers as the episode came to a close.
Stay tuned to Emegypt for further updates and results from WWE SmackDown.
