WWE Smackdown: December 9, 2022 - Results & Highlights

Hey wrestling fans! Let's dive into the electrifying action that went down on WWE Smackdown, December 9, 2022. This episode was packed with intense matches, shocking twists, and unforgettable moments that kept us all on the edge of our seats. If you missed it, don't worry – I’ve got you covered with a full recap and all the juicy details. Get ready to relive the excitement!

The Brawling Brutes vs. Imperium – A Grudge Match for the Ages

The show kicked off with a highly anticipated grudge match between The Brawling Brutes and Imperium. These two teams have been at each other’s throats for weeks, and this match was the culmination of their brutal rivalry. From the opening bell, the intensity was off the charts. Ridge Holland and Butch of The Brawling Brutes brought their signature hard-hitting style, while Gunther, Ludwig Kaiser, and Giovanni Vinci of Imperium responded with calculated aggression.

The match was a non-stop barrage of fists, kicks, and slams. Both teams left it all in the ring, showcasing their incredible athleticism and determination. The crowd was roaring, feeding off the energy of the competitors. There were near falls, close calls, and moments where it seemed like either team could snatch the victory. The Brawling Brutes, known for their resilience, absorbed a tremendous amount of punishment but kept fighting back with unwavering spirit. Imperium, on the other hand, displayed their superior teamwork and strategic prowess, cutting off the ring and isolating their opponents.

One standout moment was when Butch locked in a devastating submission on Giovanni Vinci, bending him in ways that seemed physically impossible. The crowd erupted, sensing that the end was near. However, Ludwig Kaiser managed to break up the hold, saving his teammate from certain defeat. This interference sparked a wild brawl outside the ring, as Ridge Holland and Gunther took their fight to the arena floor. The chaos only added to the excitement, creating a sense of unpredictability that kept everyone guessing.

In the end, after a grueling back-and-forth battle, Imperium emerged victorious. Gunther delivered a thunderous powerbomb to Ridge Holland, securing the pinfall victory for his team. The win solidified Imperium's dominance and sent a clear message to the rest of the Smackdown roster. The Brawling Brutes, despite their valiant effort, were left to lick their wounds and regroup for their next challenge. This match was a testament to the sheer brutality and unmatched intensity that WWE is known for, setting the tone for an unforgettable night of wrestling action. It was a war of attrition, a clash of styles, and a showcase of the incredible talent of both teams. Fans are already clamoring for a rematch, eager to see these two teams collide once again.

Rey Mysterio vs. Santos Escobar – A Clash of Lucha Libre Legends

Next up, we had a dream match between two of the greatest Lucha Libre legends of all time: Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar. This was a battle of respect, tradition, and generational pride. Rey Mysterio, the master of the 619, needs no introduction. His high-flying acrobatics and innovative offense have captivated audiences for decades. Santos Escobar, the leader of Legado Del Fantasma, is a rising star who embodies the modern evolution of Lucha Libre. Both men came into this match with a lot to prove.

The match was a breathtaking display of aerial artistry and technical wrestling. Rey Mysterio showcased his signature moves, including his hurricanranas, diving headscissors, and, of course, the 619. Santos Escobar countered with his own impressive arsenal of maneuvers, including his suicide dives, tornado DDTs, and lightning-fast strikes. The pace was relentless, with both men constantly trying to outmaneuver each other. The crowd was on their feet, chanting the names of both competitors and soaking in the electrifying atmosphere.

One of the most memorable moments of the match was when Rey Mysterio executed a spectacular springboard off the top rope, taking out Santos Escobar with a picture-perfect crossbody. The crowd went wild, appreciating the athleticism and precision of the move. However, Santos Escobar quickly recovered and responded with a devastating powerbomb onto the arena floor. The impact reverberated throughout the arena, leaving Rey Mysterio reeling in pain.

Despite taking a beating, Rey Mysterio refused to give up. He dug deep and found the strength to fight back, hitting Santos Escobar with a series of his signature moves. In the end, after a grueling back-and-forth battle, Rey Mysterio emerged victorious. He hit Santos Escobar with the 619, followed by a diving splash for the pinfall victory. The crowd erupted, celebrating the victory of the legendary luchador. Santos Escobar, despite the loss, showed respect to Rey Mysterio after the match, acknowledging his greatness and solidifying his status as a worthy opponent. This match was a celebration of Lucha Libre, a showcase of the incredible talent of both men, and a reminder of the enduring legacy of Rey Mysterio.

Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler Dominate the Women’s Division

The domination of Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler in the Women’s Division continued on Smackdown. They are an unstoppable force and have proven that they are the team to beat. Their ruthless aggression and unmatched skill make them a threat to any woman on the roster. This week, they faced a local tag team and made quick work of them. From the opening bell, it was clear that the local competitors were outmatched. Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler wasted no time in imposing their will, using their superior strength and technical prowess to control the match.

Ronda Rousey showcased her world-class judo skills, tossing her opponents around the ring like ragdolls. Shayna Baszler, the Queen of Spades, used her devastating submissions to torture her opponents, bending them in ways that seemed physically impossible. The crowd watched in awe as Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler systematically dismantled their opponents. There was no hope for the local team. Ronda Rousey locked in the arm bar, while Shayna locked in the Kirifuda Clutch forcing both opponents to tap out simultaneously. This was a statement victory for Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler, solidifying their dominance in the Women’s Division. After the match, Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler sent a message to the rest of the division, warning them that they are coming for the Women’s Tag Team Championships. They vowed to destroy anyone who stands in their way and promised to become the most dominant tag team in WWE history. Their reign of terror is just beginning, and the rest of the Women’s Division better watch out.

Kurt Angle Celebrates His Birthday

One of the most heartwarming moments of the night was the celebration of Kurt Angle's birthday. The WWE Universe showered the Olympic Hero with love and appreciation, chanting his name and singing "Happy Birthday." Kurt Angle, visibly touched by the outpouring of support, thanked the fans for their unwavering loyalty and said that he was honored to be a part of the WWE family. The celebration was interrupted by Alpha Academy, who came out to spoil the party. Chad Gable and Otis mocked Kurt Angle, saying that he was washed up and irrelevant. They claimed that they were the only true Olympic heroes in WWE and that Kurt Angle was nothing but a has-been. This prompted Kurt Angle to invite them to the ring, and they accepted his invitation.

Main Event: Braun Strowman & Ricochet vs. Sami Zayn & Solo Sikoa

The main event of the night featured a highly anticipated tag team match between Braun Strowman and Ricochet against Sami Zayn and Solo Sikoa of The Bloodline. This match was a clash of styles, pitting the power and size of Braun Strowman against the speed and agility of Ricochet, and the cunning and strategy of Sami Zayn against the brutal force of Solo Sikoa. The stakes were high, as a victory for either team would send a strong message to the rest of the Smackdown roster.

The match started at a frenetic pace, with Ricochet using his high-flying offense to keep Sami Zayn and Solo Sikoa off balance. Braun Strowman, when tagged in, unleashed his immense power, tossing his opponents around the ring like ragdolls. Sami Zayn, the Underdog from the Underground, used his craftiness and deception to avoid the wrath of Braun Strowman, while Solo Sikoa stood as the silent enforcer, waiting for the opportunity to strike.

One of the most memorable moments of the match was when Ricochet executed a breathtaking springboard moonsault onto Sami Zayn and Solo Sikoa outside the ring. The crowd erupted, appreciating the athleticism and daredevilry of the move. However, Solo Sikoa quickly recovered and responded with a devastating Samoan Spike to Ricochet, leaving him reeling in pain.

Despite taking a beating, Ricochet refused to give up. He tagged in Braun Strowman, who went on a rampage, destroying everything in his path. Braun Strowman hit Sami Zayn with a thunderous powerbomb, followed by a running powerslam for the pinfall victory. The crowd went wild, celebrating the victory of Braun Strowman and Ricochet. The Bloodline, despite the loss, showed their dominance after the match by beating down Braun and Ricochet. The Usos came out to join the assault and send a message to the rest of the tag team division. The show ended with The Bloodline standing tall, asserting their dominance over Smackdown.

Overall, WWE Smackdown on December 9, 2022, was an action-packed show filled with unforgettable moments. From the brutal grudge match between The Brawling Brutes and Imperium to the dream match between Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar, there was something for everyone to enjoy. The domination of Ronda Rousey and Shayna Baszler in the Women’s Division continued, while Kurt Angle celebrated his birthday with the WWE Universe. The main event saw Braun Strowman and Ricochet defeat Sami Zayn and Solo Sikoa in a thrilling tag team match. If you missed the show, be sure to catch the replay on WWE Network. You won't be disappointed!