WWE SmackDown Results – May 23, 2023
Last night’s WWE SmackDown brought the heat ahead of the highly anticipated Saturday Night’s Main Event (SNME) in Tampa. The episode featured multiple significant matches, including a high-stakes WWE Tag Team Championship match, various Money in the Bank qualifiers, and an explosive triple threat match featuring some of the top Superstars in the women’s division.
WWE Tag Team Championship Match – Street Profits vs. The Usos
The main event of the night saw the Street Profits challenge for the WWE Tag Team Championships against long-reigning champions, The Usos. After an intense showdown filled with near falls and high-flying maneuvers, the match concluded with The Usos retaining their titles through a well-executed double team finisher.
Winner: The Usos (still champions)
Grade: A-
This match was a showcase of both teams’ athleticism and chemistry. The Usos, known for their powerful in-ring style and veteran experience, managed to clutch a victory after dodging a spectacular dive from Montez Ford, followed by a superkick to Angelo Dawkins.
Triple Threat Qualifying Match – Zelina Vega vs. Charlotte Flair vs. Giulia
In a thrilling women’s Money in the Bank qualifying match, Zelina Vega faced off against Charlotte Flair and Giulia. This was perhaps one of the most anticipated bouts of the night, given the star power involved. From the start, all three women displayed their athleticism, with Vega’s agility complementing Flair’s strength and Giulia’s hard-hitting style.
As the match progressed, it became a relentless back-and-forth affair with moments of suspense as each woman attempted to gain an upper hand. Ultimately, it was Charlotte Flair who emerged victorious after delivering a decisive Figure Eight leg lock to Vega. Giulia, who had been on the brink of victory, was unable to break the hold.
Winner: Charlotte Flair (qualifies for Money in the Bank)
Grade: A
This match underscored the depth of talent in the women’s division and set the stage for an exciting Money in the Bank event.
Other Notable Matches and Moments
Shinsuke Nakamura vs. Ricochet
Another highlight of the evening was the match between Shinsuke Nakamura and Ricochet. Both Superstars are known for their striking ability and aerial maneuvers. The contest was built on mutual respect, with both competitors showcasing their arsenal. In the end, Nakamura secured the victory after hitting the Kinshasa knee strike.
Winner: Shinsuke Nakamura
Grade: B+
Promo Segment – Roman Reigns Addresses His Upcoming Opponent
Before the closing credits, Roman Reigns took the mic to address his upcoming opponent at SNME. He confidently declared that he was the best in the business and that no one could dethrone him. This promo not only hyped up the fans for his match but also reinforced his dominant persona as Universal Champion.
Money in the Bank Qualifying Matches Announced
Following the matches, WWE officials announced several qualifying matches for the Money in the Bank ladder match. Fans were thrilled to hear that more qualifications would be held over the next few weeks, leading to an action-packed lead-up to one of WWE’s biggest events of the summer.
Reactions and Analysis
Fans on social media reacted energetically to last night’s show, highlighting the impressive performances delivered by all participants. The women’s triple threat match received particular praise for its pacing and excitement, while The Usos’ ability to retain their titles was celebrated by longtime fans.
The wrestling community also discussed how the episode effectively set the stage for SNME in Tampa. The anticipation for the event is palpable, especially considering that several key rivalries are still simmering and bound to boil over during the weekend.
Conclusion
Overall, WWE SmackDown delivered an action-packed night filled with compelling storylines and thrilling in-ring contests. The results and performances showcased the incredible talent across the roster, building excitement in the lead-up to SNME and the subsequent Money in the Bank pay-per-view. With various storylines intertwining, fans can expect an even more electrifying atmosphere in the weeks to come.
As WWE continues to refine its narratives and highlight its top talent, fans are left eager for what lies ahead in the thrilling world of professional wrestling.
