SmackDown! Recap: Orton’s Moment and the show’s Highs and Lows
Table of Contents
- 1. SmackDown! Recap: Orton’s Moment and the show’s Highs and Lows
- 2. Orton’s Dominating Performance
- 3. What Worked on SmackDown!
- 4. Key Positives from the Show
- 5. areas for Betterment
- 6. Notable Issues From the Show
- 7. The Ever-Evolving Landscape of WWE
- 8. What impact did Randy Orton’s spontaneous RKO have on the WWE SmackDown episode of January 23, 2026?
- 9. Randy Orton’s RKO Shocked Fans: 3 Things We Disliked and 3 Things We loved from WWE SmackDown January 23 2026
- 10. What We Disliked
- 11. What We Loved
- 12. The RKO Factor: A Deeper Look
- 13. Impact on the Road to
The January 23rd, 2026, edition of “WWE SmackDown!” delivered a night of intense action, culminating in a signature moment for veteran Superstar Randy Orton. However, not every element of the show resonated with fans, sparking debate about what worked and what didn’t. This recap dives into the three standout aspects of the episode that excited viewers, and the three that left something to be desired.
Orton’s Dominating Performance
The highlight of the evening undoubtedly centered around Randy orton, who secured a decisive victory against a local competitor with his iconic RKO maneuver. The move sent shockwaves through the arena, solidifying Orton’s status as a main event attraction and generating considerable buzz on social media. According to WWE’s official website, Orton’s recent return has substantially boosted viewership.
What Worked on SmackDown!
Beyond orton’s triumph, several other segments contributed to a positive viewing experience. The creative team showcased promising developments in ongoing storylines, particularly those involving the tag team division. A surprising turn in the women’s championship feud also amplified the anticipation for future confrontations. The pacing of the show generally felt brisk, maintaining a level of engagement throughout its duration.
Key Positives from the Show
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Randy Orton’s Victory | A stunning RKO on a hometown competitor energized the crowd. |
| Tag Team Storylines | Intriguing developments promised future compelling matches. |
| Women’s Championship Feud | A surprising twist heightened the stakes and fan interest. |
areas for Betterment
Despite the exciting moments,the January 23rd episode of “SmackDown!” wasn’t without its shortcomings. A mid-card match suffered from a lack of build-up and seemed to stall momentum. Some fans criticized the overabundance of promotional segments, which felt disruptive to the overall flow. A particular segment with a new commentary team also felt out of place and didn’t connect well with the established chemistry of the existing announce team.
Notable Issues From the Show
Some viewers expressed disappointment with the handling of several newer talents, feeling their potential wasn’t fully utilized. The booking of these wrestlers has been a consistent point of discussion within the WWE Reddit community.
The Ever-Evolving Landscape of WWE
Professional wrestling, at its core, is a narrative medium, and “SmackDown!” exemplifies this. The constant interplay between captivating matches, compelling storylines, and character development is essential for retaining a loyal audience. WWE’s continued evolution reflects the changing preferences of its fanbase and the broader entertainment landscape. The ability to balance established stars like Orton with emerging talent is a critical factor in the promotionS long-term success.
As WWE continues to push boundaries,engaging fans and adapting to evolving tastes will be paramount. What did you think of Randy Orton’s performance on SmackDown!? and what changes would *you* make to improve the overall show experience?
Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know your favorite and least favorite moments from the show!
What impact did Randy Orton’s spontaneous RKO have on the WWE SmackDown episode of January 23, 2026?
Randy Orton’s RKO Shocked Fans: 3 Things We Disliked and 3 Things We loved from WWE SmackDown January 23 2026
WWE SmackDown delivered a jolt to the system on January 23rd, 2026, largely thanks to Randy orton’s signature RKO. While the Apex Predator remains a captivating force in professional wrestling, the show itself was a mixed bag. Here’s a breakdown of what worked,and what didn’t,from the latest episode. We’ll dive into the match quality, storyline progression, and overall fan experience, focusing on the impact of Orton’s performance and the broader SmackDown landscape.
What We Disliked
- The Overbooked Tag Team Championship Match: The main event, a chaotic scramble for the SmackDown Tag Team Championships, felt unnecessarily convoluted. While the inclusion of six teams aimed for spectacle, it devolved into a series of near falls and interference that diluted the impact of the title change. The constant interruptions prevented any sustained momentum and left viewers feeling weary rather than excited. Fans were hoping for a cleaner, more decisive victory, showcasing the skills of the competing teams.
- Lack of Follow-through on Sami Zayn’s Storyline: After a promising build-up, Sami Zayn’s feud with the emerging heel, Javier “Jax” Rodriguez, stalled this week. A brief backstage segment hinted at continued tension, but lacked a concrete advancement of the narrative. Zayn’s character work has been a highlight for months, and leaving his storyline on hold feels like a missed possibility to capitalize on his momentum. The absence of a clear direction leaves fans wondering where this rivalry is headed.
- Predictable Mid-Card Booking: The matches involving the mid-card talent – specifically,the ongoing rivalry between Angel Garza and Chad Gable – felt formulaic. While both performers are capable, the match followed a predictable pattern, lacking innovative spots or a compelling reason to invest emotionally.This segment highlighted a broader issue: a reliance on established tropes instead of taking risks with character development and match presentation.
What We Loved
- Randy Orton’s RKO Out of Nowhere: Let’s be honest, the biggest talking point of the night was Randy Orton’s perfectly timed RKO on… Grayson Waller during Waller’s in-ring promo. It came completely out of the blue, shocking both Waller and the live audience.The execution was flawless, reminding everyone why the RKO remains one of the most iconic moves in WWE history. This wasn’t a planned match; it was a statement. Orton’s ability to create instant drama is unparalleled.
- The Intensity of the Women’s Championship Segment: Bayley and Tiffany Stratton continued their heated rivalry with a blistering verbal exchange. The animosity felt genuine, and the promo work from both women was exceptional. Stratton’s increasingly aggressive demeanor is a welcome change, and Bayley’s veteran presence added weight to the confrontation. This segment successfully built anticipation for their upcoming championship match at the Royal Rumble. The psychological warfare was a masterclass in storytelling.
- The Debut of “The Technician” – Kenichi Sato: The surprise debut of Japanese wrestling star Kenichi Sato, billed as “the Technician,” was a breath of fresh air. Sato’s brief but impactful squash match showcased his remarkable technical prowess and striking ability. he cleanly defeated veteran enhancement talent, establishing him as a credible threat immediately. This signing signals WWE’s continued commitment to bringing in international talent and diversifying its roster. Sato’s unique style is a welcome addition to the SmackDown landscape.
The RKO Factor: A Deeper Look
Randy Orton’s spontaneous RKO raises questions about his future direction. is this the beginning of a new feud with Grayson Waller? Or was it simply a reminder of Orton’s unpredictable nature? Historically, Orton’s RKOs have frequently enough served as catalysts for new storylines. His ability to insert himself into any situation and create instant conflict is a key element of his enduring appeal. The incident sparked immediate social media buzz, with #RKO trending worldwide.
