WWE SmackDown Results: Winners, Grades, Reactions, and Highlights from January 3, 2025

Welcome to the first SmackDown of 2025, brought to you by Bleacher Report.

The new year kicked off in style with title action as Nia Jax defended her WWE Women's Championship against Naomi. Shinsuke Nakamura, the United States Champion, also competed in a non-title match against Andrade, delivering yet another action-packed episode of SmackDown.

With just a month to go before the Royal Rumble, WWE is setting the stage for its signature event, providing fans with hints of what's to come. Here's a complete breakdown of this week’s SmackDown episode.

Cody Rhodes Opens 2025

Cody Rhodes opened the show by addressing his ongoing feud with Kevin Owens, who injured him with a piledriver. Though Cody is not cleared to wrestle, he was unexpectedly confronted by Drew McIntyre, who offered a surprising hug instead of an attack.

However, Kevin Owens soon ambushed Rhodes, leading to a chaotic brawl that had to be broken up by security.

Grade: B-

Notable Moments:

Drew McIntyre’s surprise appearance drew a big reaction from the crowd.

The segment felt longer than necessary but set the tone for the upcoming feud.

Andrade vs. Shinsuke Nakamura

Shinsuke Nakamura returned from an appearance at Pro Wrestling NOAH to face Andrade in a high-energy non-title match. The two veterans showcased their chemistry, delivering a technical and hard-hitting contest.

Nakamura secured the victory with his Kinshasa after Andrade hit his head on the ring post. However, LA Knight interrupted the celebration, attacking Nakamura to build their rivalry.

Result: Nakamura defeated Andrade

Grade: B+

Notable Moments:

Nakamura’s updated theme music was a hit with the crowd.

Andrade’s selling of the ring post spot added drama to the match.

Michin vs. Piper Niven

Michin sought revenge against Piper Niven after her loss in a U.S. title match. Despite Niven's size advantage, Michin used her agility and technical prowess to outsmart her opponent and secure the win.

Result: Michin defeated Niven

Grade: B-

Notable Moments:

Chelsea Green’s exaggerated reactions at ringside provided comic relief.

Michin continues to impress as one of WWE’s underrated talents.

DIY vs. Motor City Machine Guns

The tag team champions DIY defended their titles against MCMG in a thrilling encounter. Both teams displayed excellent chemistry, keeping the crowd on their feet.

The match ended in a no-contest after Pretty Deadly interfered, setting up future rematches while protecting both teams.

Result: No Contest

Grade: B+

Notable Moments:

The audience erupted in chants of "This is awesome."

The chaotic finish built anticipation for the next chapter in this feud.

Naomi vs. Nia Jax – Women's Title Match

Accompanied by Bianca Belair, Naomi took on Nia Jax for the WWE Women’s Championship. Despite Naomi’s speed and resilience, Jax’s power gave her the upper hand.

Tiffany Stratton cashed in her Money in the Bank contract after the match, defeating Jax to become the new WWE Women’s Champion.

Result: Jax defeated Naomi; Stratton defeated Jax to win the title

Grade: B+

Notable Moments:

Naomi’s jumping enzuigiri showcased her athleticism.

Stratton’s cash-in was the highlight of the night, earning massive applause.

The New Bloodline vs. The OG Bloodline

In the main event, The New Bloodline (Solo Sikoa, Jacob Fatu, and Tama Tonga) faced The OG Bloodline (Sami Zayn and The Usos) in a heated six-man tag match.

The chaotic brawl showcased the intensity of this rivalry, with Solo Sikoa securing the win for his team with a devastating Samoan Spike.

Result: The New Bloodline defeated The OG Bloodline

Grade: B

Notable Moments:

Jacob Fatu’s charisma and humor added a unique touch to the segment.

Commentary highlighted the evolving leadership dynamic within The Bloodline.

Final Thoughts

The first SmackDown of 2025 delivered solid in-ring action, with Stratton’s cash-in standing out as the moment of the night. While the three-hour format felt stretched at times, the show successfully set the stage for future storylines heading into the Royal Rumble.

Overall Grade: B