5 WWE SmackDown Spoilers you need to know for tonight: 44-year-old returns to in-ring action, Jade Cargill's replacement revealed
Due to Thanksgiving, SmackDown was taped in advance. As this was the go-home show before Survivor Series: WarGames, it had major implications for the upcoming PLE this Saturday.
A few segments had already been confirmed on RAW with Roman Reigns and CM Punk expected to appear. Jey Uso vs. Jacob Fatu in a WarGames advantage match was also announced.
Here, before the show airs tonight, we'll take a look at five SmackDown spoilers.
#5. Shinsuke Nakamura returned to in-ring action on SmackDown
WWE recently announced LA Knight vs. Shinsuke Nakamura for the US Championship at Survivor Series: WarGames. Nakamura returned a few weeks ago, blindsiding the champion to declare his intentions.
The mind games appeared to give Nakamura a strong psychological advantage, but The Artist gained an important win en route to his title match. The Japanese sensation came out with a modified version of his theme song for a one-on-one match with Andrade.
El Idolo put up a fight, but the challenger picked up a crucial win. Sensing an opening, Knight pounced on Nakamura, who sprayed mist in the champion's eyes to curb the attack.
#4. Bayley stepped up to replace Jade Cargill in the Women's WarGames match at Survivor Series
Jade Cargill was mysteriously attacked in the parking lot backstage last week on SmackDown, ruling her out of the Women's US Title tournament and the WarGames match at Survivor Series. Rhea Ripley, Bianca Belair, Naomi, and IYO SKY, thus, had to find a final member for their team.
Bayley was a strong contender for the spot, especially after she helped Bianca Belair win the WarGames advantage match. However, The Role Model's long-standing rivalry with Belair and IYO SKY complicated her inclusion.
Nevertheless, the pre-taped SmackDown confirmed Bayley's participation. Rhea Ripley cut a promo, and she was joined by the former WWE Women's Champion. When a massive brawl broke out, The Role Model helped fight off Liv Morgan and company.
#3. Michin advances in the Women's US Championship tournament
As mentioned previously, Jade Cargill was set to participate in the Women's US Title tournament. However, Cargill's injury forced WWE to look for a replacement, and The Force was replaced by NXT's Lash Legend.
In the opening match of the night, Michin battled Piper Niven and Legend in a Triple Threat. The bout was marred by interference as Chelsea Green interfered, prompting B-Fab to assist.
B-Fab's well-timed assistance helped Michin grab the win and advance in the Women's US Title tournament.
#2. Cody Rhodes defeated Carmelo Hayes
Although Cody Rhodes has not been confirmed for Survivor Series: WarGames, The WWE Champion was in attendance on SmackDown, where he battled Carmelo Hayes.
Considering the talent of both men, the match was competitive. Rhodes eventually got the win with the Cross Rhodes, building momentum towards his upcoming clash with Kevin Owens at Saturday Night's Main Event.
It remains to be seen if The American Nightmare will appear at Survivor Series: WarGames in a backstage or promo segment.
#1. Jacob Fatu won his debut singles match
The main event of SmackDown featured a highly-anticipated clash between 'Main Event' Jey Uso and Jacob Fatu in a Men's WarGames advantage match.
Jey and Fatu put on a great match, as expected, with both men hitting some big moves. The Samaon Werewolf gained the pinfall win upon hitting a Springboard Moonsault to crush his opponent, winning his debut singles match in WWE.
The New Bloodline has the advantage heading into the Men's WarGames match, but the final outcome will be interesting considering the star power involved.
