Cody Rhodes gets confronted by old friends, new champion crowned: 3 BOLD predictions for SmackDown 9/20

From a possible betrayal to a shocking title change, here are 3 things that could possibly happen on the 9/20 episode of SmackDown.


Cody Rhodes gets confronted by old friends, new champion crowned: 3 BOLD predictions for SmackDown 9/20

SmackDown 9/20 predictions (via WWE)

The SmackDown season premiere episode on the USA Network set a precedent for the coming weeks on the blue brand. WWE began the build to the upcoming Bad Blood PLE on Friday nights. Additionally, a championship match was confirmed for this week’s show.

The company’s two biggest stars, Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns, will team up to face The Bloodline at Bad Blood. Meanwhile, Nia Jax will defend her women’s title at the PLE. Jax’s opponent will most likely be determined on this week’s SmackDown. LA Knight will put his US Championship on the line against Andrade, who concluded his feud with Carmelo Hayes.

Following last week’s beatdown, Michin and Chelsea Green will resume their rivalry on the blue brand. Further, fans are anticipating the next step for Kevin Owens and Randy Orton. Having said that, here are 3 predictions for the upcoming episode of SmackDown:

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Andrade dethrones LA Knight to become United States Champion

Since returning to WWE, Andrade hasn’t exactly lit up the stage as many would’ve expected him to. His well-acclaimed match series with Carmelo Hayes has proved why he belongs with the best in WWE. Hence, it wouldn’t be surprising to see El Idolo rewarded for his consistency in the form of the US Championship.

Andrade and LA Knight
Andrade and LA Knight (via WWE)

The current champion, LA Knight, has put in a decent shift since winning the title at SummerSlam. However, WWE should cut loose on delaying title changes for big shows. Moreover, Andrade dethroning Knight on SmackDown would be a welcome surprise for fans. In fact, it could lead to a back-and-forth rivalry between the two stars down the line.

Naomi betrays Bayley to become #1 contender for the Women’s Championship

Nia Jax solved her #1 contender’s problem on SmackDown last week. The Irresistible Force decided to test the friendship between Naomi and Bayley. Jax challenged the duo to a tag team match, pitting herself and Tiffany Stratton against the former Women’s Champions. If the latter team wins, whoever gains the pinfall will challenge for the title at Bad Blood.

Naomi and Bayley
Naomi and Bayley (via WWE)

Jax added a twist to the bout, stating that if she and Stratton won, the person at the end of the pinfall would leave SmackDown. Although Bayley and Naomi have shown how unfazed they are by the stipulation, fans are predicting that the latter might turn on her friend. The former TNA wrestler’s hunger for the top prize on the blue brand could tempt her to steal the opportunity from Bayley.

Kevin Owens and Randy Orton confront Cody Rhodes regarding his Bad Blood decision

The closing image of Cody Rhodes and Roman Reigns standing tall side-by-side against The Bloodline certainly rubbed many people the wrong way. Among those who might feel that way are Cody’s closest friends, Kevin Owens and Randy Orton. The team of R-KO has helped Rhodes in his battles against the faction. Hence, they won’t be happy to learn that Rhodes will team with Reigns.

Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens and Randy Orton
Cody Rhodes, Kevin Owens and Randy Orton (via WWE)

After all, Owens feuded with the OTC for four years while Orton was put on the shelf for eighteen months by The Bloodline under Reigns’ leadership. Hence, Rhodes’ friends will definitely question his decision to ally with the enemy on this week’s SmackDown. Additionally, this could be the beginning of the buildup to the eventual rivalry between The American Nightmare and The Viper.