WWE SmackDown Results: January 2, 2026
The latest episode of WWE SmackDown, aired on January 2, 2026, brought excitement and surprise as Randy Orton made a highly anticipated return to the ring. This edition of SmackDown was packed with thrilling matches and compelling storylines that have captivated fans.
Main Event Summary
The show opened with a hard-hitting matchup featuring the reigning Intercontinental Champion, Apollo Crews, defending his title against the formidable Kevin Owens. This contest showcased both competitors’ technical prowess and striking ability. After a back-and-forth battle that saw several near falls, Owens delivered a stunning Stunner, but Crews managed to kick out at two. In the climactic moment, Crews countered Owens’ oncoming strike and executed a well-timed Olympic Slam to retain his championship, solidifying his status at the top of the mid-card hierarchy.
Randy Orton’s Dramatic Entrance
The night reached a pivotal moment when Randy Orton’s music hit, prompting a thunderous reaction from the audience. After months on the sidelines, Orton’s return was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. He confronted current WWE Champion Drew McIntyre, making it clear that he has set his sights on the title. Their exchange was charged with tension, hinting at a potential high-stakes rivalry shaping up as they both have unfinished business from the past.
Orton’s presence added a substantial layer of anticipation to the upcoming Royal Rumble event. His ability to twist narratives—combined with his past accolades—positions him as a formidable challenger for McIntyre.
Additional Matches and Results
In a tag team bout, The Street Profits faced off against The Usos in a thrilling encounter. The action was frenetic, with both teams showcasing their unique styles. The conclusion came when Montez Ford executed a breathtaking frog splash, leading his team to victory. This win reinforced The Street Profits’ position as key players in the tag team division.
The women’s division also took center stage with a remarkable matchup between Liv Morgan and Sonya Deville. With aggressive strikes and clever counters, both competitors delivered an engaging performance. Ultimately, Morgan claimed the win, continuing her rise in the women’s ranks and positioning her for a title opportunity in the near future.
Fan Reaction and Analysis
The return of Randy Orton was undoubtedly the highlight of the evening, prompting an electric atmosphere in the arena. Fans were vocal about their excitement, with many taking to social media to express their enthusiasm about Orton’s comeback and potential title chase. His unpredictable nature adds a strategic element to SmackDown, likely heightening the stakes as the roster approaches major events.
Overall, this episode of SmackDown successfully set the stage for thrilling storylines as it heads toward the Royal Rumble. The performances from all wrestlers underscored the depth of talent within WWE, leaving fans eager for what’s next in this captivating drama. The pairing of established stars like Orton with rising talents ensures that the excitement will only continue to grow in the weeks ahead.
