This week’s episode of SmackDown emanated from Portland, OR and episode opened with a big segment. Paul Heyman kicked off the show and he told the fans that he was proud to represent the one and only Tribal Chief. Heyman said that Roman has a new goal now that he’s reclaimed the mantle of Tribal Chief, and he wanted to share the news with one person in particular. The Wiseman then called Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes down to the ring.
The American Nightmare made his way out and Paul Heyman shook his hand. Cody got a big response from the crowd as Heyman told him he deserves it. Paul Heyman stated that Cody has done something few in the business have done, he’s earned the respect of Roman Reigns.
Heyman said that because Cody is such a great champion, Roman Reigns has asked him to tell Cody to his face that he wants his title back. He went on to inform Cody that Roman wants him to know how he’s going to get the title back. Paul Heyman then announced that Roman Reigns has declared for the 2025 Royal Rumble, which he is planning to win, so he can challenge Cody for the title.
Cody went to grab a mic, but he was interrupted by Kevin Owens before he could speak. Owens entered through the crowd and berated Cody for shaking hands with The Rock on Monday, and Paul Heyman tonight. KO told Cody that if he lets Roman get the title back he’ll be hurting the entire company. Rhodes then bopped over the barricade and battled with Owens up the stairs.
Jacob Fatu and Tama Tonga appeared behind Paul Heyman in the ring. They looked as if they were getting ready to attack Heyman before Jimmy Uso made the save. Jimmy made his way down to the ring and cleaned house at first. He hit Jacob Fatu with a steel chair only for Jacob to no sell it. Jacob and Tama Tonga beat Jimmy down as WWE officials tried to break it up.
Cody Rhodes started walking back down the stairs into the arena. Cody got in the ring and took out Tama Tonga. He then set his sights on Jacob Fatu and knocked him over the top rope with a clothesline.
"You've earned the respect of Roman Reigns."@WWERomanReigns may respect @CodyRhodes, BUT he’s after the Undisputed WWE Championship. His first stop? #RoyalRumble. #SmackDown pic.twitter.com/PMA2XGqTB9
— WWE (@WWE) January 11, 2025
