WWE SmackDown: Chaos, Championships, and a Descent into Villainy – What’s Next?
The March 20, 2026, episode of SmackDown delivered a night of intense action, shocking betrayals, and escalating rivalries. From Drew McIntyre and Jacob Fatu’s explosive feud to Randy Orton’s increasingly erratic behavior, the landscape of WWE is shifting. This article breaks down the key events and explores the potential future trajectories of these storylines.
The McIntyre-Fatu Feud: Beyond the Brawl
The animosity between Drew McIntyre and Jacob Fatu reached a fever pitch, beginning with a pre-show assault in the parking lot and culminating in a dangerous fall from a railing. This isn’t simply a clash of egos; it’s a battle for WrestleMania positioning. The repeated brawls, even with security intervention, suggest this feud will likely continue to be intensely physical. Expect a stipulation match – perhaps a Steel Cage or Falls Count Anywhere – to finally contain the chaos and deliver a definitive outcome.
Randy Orton’s Descent: Legacy vs. Ruthlessness
Randy Orton’s explanation for his attacks on Cody Rhodes and Matt Cardona painted a disturbing picture of a legend willing to sacrifice his reputation for championship gold. He explicitly stated his desire to be remembered for his title reigns, not for being a “solid guy.” This character shift is a significant gamble, but one that could pay off if executed effectively. Orton’s actions suggest a willingness to cross lines previously considered untouchable, potentially leading to alliances with other heel figures and a more aggressive in-ring style.
Did you know? Randy Orton referenced his desire for a 15th world championship, highlighting the importance of legacy in professional wrestling.
Tag Team Turmoil: Novel Champions and Emerging Conflicts
Damian Priest and R-Truth’s unexpected victory over Tama Tonga and JC Mateo for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships adds another layer of unpredictability to the division. The involvement of the Wyatt Sicks during the match hints at a potential expansion of their influence and a possible feud with MFT. The chaotic nature of the finish suggests that the tag team division will remain a hotbed of interference and shifting alliances.
The Bella Twins and the Women’s Tag Team Scene
The Bella Twins’ return and subsequent disqualification loss to Nia Jax and Lash Legend served to re-establish their presence and set the stage for future opportunities. The interference from Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss indicates a brewing rivalry within the women’s tag team ranks. Expect a multi-team feud to develop, potentially culminating in a WrestleMania match.
Sami Zayn’s Existential Crisis
Sami Zayn’s emotional response to Randy Orton’s attack on Cody Rhodes revealed a deeper internal conflict. He questioned his own beliefs and the fairness of the wrestling world. This storyline could lead to a character arc where Zayn embraces a more ruthless side, or conversely, doubles down on his principles, leading to a clash with Orton. His interaction with Trick Williams suggests a potential mentorship or rivalry could be brewing.
Kit Wilson’s Provocation: A Rising Star or a Reckless Gamble?
Kit Wilson’s challenge to Jelly Roll, culminating in a physical attack, positions him as a provocative and potentially heelish character. This represents a bold move for a relatively new performer, and its success will depend on his ability to connect with the audience as a villain. The planned match next week will be a crucial test of his charisma and in-ring skills.
FAQ
- Will Drew McIntyre and Jacob Fatu have a match at WrestleMania? While not confirmed, the intensity of their feud strongly suggests a match is likely, potentially with a high-stakes stipulation.
- What is Randy Orton’s motivation for his recent actions? Orton has stated his desire to prioritize championship wins over fan approval, indicating a willingness to do whatever it takes to achieve his goals.
- Who are the Wyatt Sicks? The Wyatt Sicks are a mysterious group that interfered in the Tag Team Championship match, hinting at a larger role in upcoming storylines.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the interactions between Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga. Tonga’s comment about Sikoa acting like Roman Reigns could foreshadow a power struggle within MFT.
Explore more WWE news and analysis on our wrestling coverage page. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and exclusive content!
