3 Talking Points From Tonight’s Episode Of WWE Smackdown – 10th November 2023

WWE SmackDown on the 10th of November, 2023, left fans in a whirlwind of excitement and shock, especially in the aftermath of Crown Jewel 2023. Among the standout moments, Santos Escobar’s heel turn against Rey Mysterio stands out as a pivotal event that has reshaped the landscape of the show. This article delves into the significant ramifications and potential future storylines stemming from this shocking twist.

Santos Escobar’s alignment with Rey Mysterio had initially signaled a new era for Legado del Fantasma, giving the group an unprecedented level of credibility. With Mysterio’s legendary status in the wrestling world, his involvement provided a huge boost to Escobar, Joaquin Wilde, Cruz del Toro, and Zelina Vega. Vega, in particular, enjoyed a career highlight representing the group in San Juan at Backlash earlier this year. This alliance seemed to be a win-win situation for everyone involved.

However, the seeds of discord were subtly planted with the group’s string of losses since their graduation from “NXT.” These defeats foreshadowed an impending fallout, and it came to a head when Carlito confronted Escobar about his way of ‘protecting’ Mysterio at Crown Jewel. This confrontation set the stage for Escobar’s shocking betrayal. His attack on Mysterio, coupled with the words “You were my hero. It was supposed to be us,” marked a significant turning point for Escobar’s character.

This heel turn opens up a plethora of storytelling possibilities. The most immediate and apparent is the inevitable feud between Escobar and Mysterio. This storyline has the potential to be a classic, given the emotional depth and history between the characters. Moreover, there’s intrigue surrounding how Cruz and del Toro will respond to their leader’s actions. Will they continue to support Escobar, or will they question his motives and methods?

Zelina Vega’s role in this new dynamic is also a point of interest. Her reaction to Escobar’s actions could introduce a new female perspective into the storyline, potentially leading to more complex and layered narratives. Additionally, there’s the intriguing possibility of Dominik Mysterio getting involved. Given Rey’s recent failures with both his biological and adopted sons, Dominik’s intervention could add another layer to the already rich storyline.

The second major talking point from tonight’s WWE SmackDown episode revolves around the unexpected yet incredibly entertaining role of Kevin Owens at the commentary desk. Owens, known for his charisma and wit, took over the role from Corey Graves, who was absent due to personal reasons. His presence at the commentary table added a fresh and humorous dimension to the show, making it a standout episode.

Kevin Owens’ natural flair for commentary shone brightly throughout the night. His unique take on the matches, coupled with his humorous telestrations involving Grayson Waller and Austin Theory, kept the audience both engaged and amused. It’s not just about the words he says; it’s how he says them. Owens has a knack for adding a humorous twist to his commentary, making the viewing experience much more enjoyable.

What made Owens’ stint at the commentary desk even more impactful was the storyline integration. His playful jabs at Waller and Theory weren’t just for laughs—they played a crucial part in moving their ongoing feud forward. Despite instructions from General Manager Nick Aldis to avoid physical involvement, Owens couldn’t resist confronting Waller and Theory, leading to a physical altercation. This not only spiced up the episode but also enriched the storyline, making it more dynamic and engaging.

In light of his exceptional performance, there’s a growing demand among fans for Owens to have more stints at the commentary desk. His ability to blend humor with insightful commentary makes him a valuable asset in this role. Even when battling a cold, Owens’ commentary was a breath of fresh air, proving that his talents extend far beyond the ring. WWE would do well to consider featuring him in this capacity more often, not only for the entertainment value but also for the unique perspective he brings to the commentary team.

The third and final talking point from the latest episode of WWE SmackDown is centered around Asuka’s stunning heel turn and her alliance with Damage CTRL. This development has sparked a wave of reactions among fans and analysts, with many seeing it as a pivotal moment in the current WWE storyline.

Asuka, previously known for her role as a babyface, has reverted to a heel character, a role in which many argue she excels. Her heel persona, which was notably missed after she lost the WWE Women’s Championship at Summerslam, brings a more dynamic and intense aspect to her character. This recent turn not only rejuvenates her role but also adds an intriguing layer to the ongoing narrative in the WWE women’s division.

The logic behind Asuka’s heel turn, though surprising to some, makes sense upon deeper examination. Asuka’s connections in the WWE are complex, especially with Kairi Sane, with whom she formed the Kabuki Warriors. This history, coupled with her previous partnership with IYO SKY in STARDOM and the brief alliance of SKY and Sane as the Sky Pirates in “NXT,” lays a foundation for her decision. It’s not just a random turn; it’s rooted in a web of past relationships and alliances, making it a calculated and strategic move.

Moreover, Asuka joining Damage CTRL adds a new dynamic to the group and its internal power structure. Bayley, the group’s leader, seems to be losing her grip, and Asuka’s addition, alongside Kairi and IYO, fortifies the faction. This development hints at a potential shift in power within the group, setting up intriguing possibilities for future storylines. The potential of a women’s WarGames match at Survivor Series with this revamped group adds another layer of excitement.

Asuka’s heel turn and her new alliance have opened up a range of storytelling possibilities. From internal power struggles within Damage CTRL to renewed rivalries and alliances, the narrative paths are numerous and compelling. This move not only revitalizes Asuka’s character but also invigorates the entire women’s division, promising exciting developments in the weeks to come.