Nick Aldis boasts SmackDown’s star power after securing two former champions in WWE Draft 2024

The SmackDown GM now has the services of Carmelo Hayes and Nia Jax.

Nick Aldis boasts SmackDown’s star power after securing two former champions in WWE Draft 2024

Nick Aldis (via Wrestling Inc.)

The first night of this year’s WWE Draft is in the rearview mirror, and one may wonder whom did it benefit more: Raw or SmackDown? While the landscape may change altogether on tonight’s Raw, it appears like Nick Aldis is pleased after landing a couple of former champions on his brand. The SmackDown General Manager took to X and posted a couple of photos, one with Carmelo Hayes and the other with Nia Jax.

The 37-year-old seemed pleased with how things panned out for him last Friday. Citing how he was already working with a world-class roster, Aldis is brimming with fervor to have Melo and Jax on board. The blue-brand sheriff retained some major names for SmackDown, including the likes of Randy Orton, LA Knight, and the first overall pick, Bianca Belair. Former United States Champion Andrade also ended up on the two-hour show.

YouTube video

Despite an overall lucrative night for SmackDown, the fans thought that the first half of the WWE Draft 2024 was underwhelming. There were no out-of-the-box brand switches, and most of the names remained in their former territories. However, as per Fightful Select, there would be a lot more swaps on Raw. Moreover, the fans could expect heavy integration of NXT into the program.

FS Video
I was already working with a world-class roster on #SmackDown   , but I believe these key acquisitions create fresh new dynamics and raise the competition even more.
Nick Aldis on X

A few hours ago, Gunther also contemplated what brand he’s going to end up with. Raw GM Adam Pearce would be devastated if he loses The Ring General to his counterpart, Nick Aldis. Nonetheless, after an uneventful outing for the red brand, the three-hour episodic show will open the account tonight. It would be interesting to see who Pearce and team bag first.

Nick Aldis announced several high-profile matches for Backlash on SmackDown

Putting the Draft aside, last week’s SmackDown was a complete train wreck. At first, the hybridized duo of Bloodline, viz., Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga, was viciously attacked by Kevin Owens in the parking lot. Once they got into the ring, Solo and Tonga gained a 2-on-1 advantage over The Prizefighter.

WWE Backlash
WWE Backlash 2024 (via WWE)

However, Randy Orton made his return to make the save and thwart further damage to Owens. A No. 1 contender match between Tiffany Stratton and Naomi for the Women’s Championship also ended in a no contest when Nia Jax wreaked havoc at ringside. She took out Bayley, who was on commentary.

The match was rendered futile. But Nick Aldis had other plans. In a backstage segment, he confirmed two matches for the Backlash PLE. Having said that, The Role Model will defend her title in a triple-threat match against Stratton and Bayley. On the other hand, Orton and Owens will join forces to battle The Bloodline.

In case you missed it: