WWE SmackDown Results: Cody Rhodes Attacks McIntyre, Elimination Chamber Setups & More (February 6, 2025)

Charlotte, North Carolina, hosted a volatile edition of WWE SmackDown on February 6, 2025, marked by escalating tensions and shocking attacks. The fallout from the Royal Rumble was immediately apparent, setting the stage for potential WrestleMania clashes and shifting power dynamics within the company.

Cody Rhodes’s Declaration of War

A Brutal Opening

The show began with a stunning assault on WWE Champion Drew McIntyre by Cody Rhodes. The attack, which spilled from the ring into the crowd, signaled a clear and aggressive challenge to McIntyre’s reign. Rhodes’s actions demonstrate a level of desperation and determination fueled by his elimination from the Royal Rumble—an elimination delivered by McIntyre despite the champion not being an official participant.

Rhodes’s Hometown Address

Addressing the crowd in his birthplace, Rhodes declared that “things will never be the same.” He openly criticized the “measuring contest” between Roman Reigns and CM Punk, distancing himself from what he perceived as a superficial rivalry. Rhodes’s emotional plea, referencing the shame of returning “empty-handed,” underscored his personal stake in dethroning McIntyre. He vowed McIntyre would not reach WrestleMania as champion.

Did You Know? Cody Rhodes referenced a nickname, “Raheem,” suggesting a hidden depth to his competitive drive and a willingness to engage in aggressive tactics.

Aldis Sets a Condition

WWE General Manager Nick Aldis intervened, demanding that Rhodes earn his championship opportunity. Aldis scheduled Rhodes for an Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match next week, forcing him to navigate a competitive field to secure a potential WrestleMania title shot. Rhodes agreed to the condition, seemingly accepting the challenge despite his volatile emotions.

In-Ring Action and Emerging Rivalries

Tag Team Championship Defense

Iyo Sky and Rhea Ripley successfully defended their WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship against Giulia and Kiana James. The match highlighted the rivalry between the Joshi stars, with Giulia specifically targeting Iyo Sky. The champions’ chemistry proved decisive, retaining their titles with a combination of power and precision.

Hayes Outlasts The Miz

Carmelo Hayes defeated The Miz in a non-title match. The Miz attempted a pre-bell attack, but Hayes quickly turned the tables, showcasing his speed and agility. Despite Miz’s veteran tactics, Hayes secured the victory with his signature move, the “First 48.”

Stratton Qualifies for Elimination Chamber

Tiffany Stratton won an Elimination Chamber Qualifying Match against Lash Legend and Chelsea Green. The chaotic match involved interference from Nia Jax and Alba Fyre, but Stratton ultimately prevailed with the “Finlay Slam” and “Prettiest Moonsault Ever.” Stratton’s victory secures her place in the upcoming Elimination Chamber match.

Expert Insight: The series of qualifying matches underscores WWE’s strategy of building anticipation and creating a competitive landscape leading up to the Elimination Chamber event. This approach aims to elevate the stakes and generate excitement among fans.

Femi Dominates, McIntyre Attacked Again

Oba Femi delivered a dominant performance against Kit Wilson, winning by way of a swift and decisive squash match. Following this, Drew McIntyre was attacked for a second time, this time by Jacob Fatu. Fatu’s assault, complete with a suicide dive, further destabilized the WWE Champion and established him as a formidable threat.

Tama Tonga’s Controversial Victory

Tama Tonga defeated Shinsuke Nakamura in a match marred by interference from The Bloodline. Distractions from Mateo and a strategic attack by Tanga Loa allowed Tonga to secure the win with two consecutive “Cutthroat Drivers.” The Bloodline’s involvement raises questions about their continued influence and potential future interference.

Backstage Intrigue and Future Conflicts

Women’s Division Chaos

A segment involving Liv Morgan, Jade Cargill, and Jordynne Grace escalated into a brawl, prompting General Manager Nick Aldis to schedule a WWE Women’s Championship match between Cargill and Grace for next week’s SmackDown. The tension between these competitors suggests a volatile and unpredictable future for the women’s division.

Trick Williams’s Provocation

Trick Williams mocked Sami Zayn backstage, drawing a challenge from Rey Fenix. Williams’s provocative behavior and confidence suggest he is positioning himself as a rising star, willing to confront established veterans.

McIntyre’s Fiery Response

Drew McIntyre, after enduring two attacks, passionately defended the WWE Championship and criticized Roman Reigns and CM Punk’s rivalry. He dismissed Trick Williams’s challenge, but the encounter foreshadows a potential clash between the champion and the upstart.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted Cody Rhodes’s attack on Drew McIntyre?

Cody Rhodes attacked Drew McIntyre in retaliation for McIntyre eliminating him from the Royal Rumble despite not being an official participant in the match.

Who will Jade Cargill defend her WWE Women’s Championship against next week?

Jade Cargill will defend her WWE Women’s Championship against Jordynne Grace next week on SmackDown.

What is the significance of Jacob Fatu’s attack on Drew McIntyre?

Jacob Fatu’s attack on Drew McIntyre establishes him as a major threat and sets up a potential match between the two, with Fatu earning an Elimination Chamber qualifying match.

With multiple qualifying matches scheduled and simmering rivalries reaching a boiling point, what impact will these events have on the landscape of WWE heading into WrestleMania?