Get ready for a night of jaw-dropping WWE action because SmackDown on January 23, 2026, delivered chaos, controversy, and championship gold! But here's where it gets controversial... was The Miz's interference in the United States Championship match a heroic save or a dirty tactic? Let's dive in and find out.
The night kicked off with a heated brawl between Sami Zayn, Trick Williams, and Damian Priest, setting the tone for an explosive evening. These three superstars weren't even scheduled to face each other yet, but their tempers flared, giving fans a taste of the intensity to come. And this is the part most people miss—this scuffle wasn't just random; it was a preview of the tension brewing for Saturday Night’s Main Event. Catch all the WWE action on the ESPN App, Peacock, Netflix, USA Network, and CW Network.
In the ring, United States Champion Carmelo Hayes defended his title against the formidable Ilja Dragunov. The match was a hard-hitting, back-and-forth battle that left both men battered. Dragunov, the former champion, showcased his signature Constantine Special lariat, but it wasn’t enough to dethrone Hayes. Just as Dragunov seemed poised to reclaim the title, The Miz made a shocking appearance, derailing Dragunov’s momentum and allowing Hayes to hit his First 48 finisher for the win. But here’s the twist: Hayes wasn’t happy about The Miz’s interference, berating him from inside the ring. Was this a sign of respect for Dragunov, or is there more to this story? Let us know in the comments!
Next, WWE Women’s Champion Jade Cargill dominated Chelsea Green in a non-title match, but the real fireworks came afterward. Jordynne Grace confronted Cargill, leading to a heated exchange that has fans buzzing about a potential future showdown. Could we see a new challenger for Cargill’s title soon?
In a shocking upset, Solo Sikoa’s MFTs dethroned Uncle Howdy’s Wyatt Sicks to become the new WWE Tag Team Champions. The match was a chaotic brawl, with Sikoa and Tama Tonga taking the fight to Dexter Lumis and Joe Gacy. Gacy’s bizarre offense momentarily turned the tide, but Sikoa’s use of the Wyatt lantern and Tonga’s Cut Throat finisher sealed the deal. This victory marks a new era for the tag team division—but will the Wyatt Sicks seek revenge?
Nathan Frazer scored one of the biggest wins of his career by defeating veteran Johnny Gargano in a thrilling match. Candice LeRae tried to intervene on Gargano’s behalf, but Axiom’s clever interference turned the tables. In a hilarious yet strategic move, Axiom masked LeRae, causing confusion that allowed Frazer to roll up Gargano for the win. This victory could be a game-changer for Frazer’s career.
Undisputed WWE Champion Drew McIntyre issued a bold challenge to the locker room, daring anyone to step up and take his title. With his dominance on full display, who will answer the call?
In a fast-paced No. 1 Contender Triple Threat Tag Team Match, Women’s United States Champion Giulia and Kiana James emerged victorious over Charlotte Flair & Alexa Bliss and Nia Jax & Lash Legend. James’ stunning 401K on Nia Jax and her sneaky pinfall after Charlotte Flair took out Lash Legend secured their win. This duo is now set to challenge RHIYO for the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship—but do they have what it takes to dethrone the champions?
The main event between Damian Priest and Trick Williams ended in chaos when Sami Zayn attacked both competitors, forcing a no-contest. Just when it seemed the dust was settling, Randy Orton made a surprise appearance, delivering RKO’s to both Williams and Zayn. The Viper’s return has everyone talking—what does this mean for the future of SmackDown?
This episode of SmackDown was packed with action, surprises, and moments that will have fans debating for weeks. What was your favorite moment? And what do you think of The Miz’s controversial interference? Let us know in the comments!
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