In a whirlwind of events, last night’s edition of SmackDown brought forth both electrifying moments and controversial developments, leaving fans buzzing with anticipation for WrestleMania 40. Here’s a rundown of the action-packed episode and the latest rumors circulating in the WWE universe.

**The Good:**

1. **Dragon Lee vs. Angel Sizzler:** The clash between LWO and Leg Del Fantasma showcased the exceptional talent in the WWE’s undercard, proving that captivating feuds extend beyond the main event scene.

2. **Cody Strikes Back:** Cody’s retaliation against The Rock following the People’s Champion’s slap at WrestleMania 40’s kickoff event was a pivotal moment, setting the stage for a potential showdown between the two powerhouses.

3. **Tiffany Stratton Shines:** With each victory, Tiffany Stratton continues to solidify her path to the main event, demonstrating her prowess in the ring. However, the WWE must ensure her future storylines are carefully crafted to maintain her momentum.

4. **Intriguing Segment with Naomi and Bianca Belair:** A subtle yet intriguing interaction between Bianca Belair and Naomi hinted at a potential character transformation for the EST of WWE, adding depth to their storyline.

5. **Randy Orton and Kevin Owens’ Chemistry:** Despite their impromptu pairing, Randy Orton and Kevin Owens showcased remarkable teamwork, teasing a possible future tag team title opportunity.

**The Bad:**

1. **Lackluster Segment with LA Knight:** LA Knight’s backstage tirade against AJ Styles fell flat, with the destruction of a TV screen failing to evoke the desired impact.

2. **Excessive Product Placement:** While product endorsements are a staple in the wrestling industry, WWE’s recent ventures into blatant product placement during segments raise concerns about the integrity of the programming.

3. **Slow Progression of Undercard Feuds:** The prolonged feud between Final Testament and Bobby Lashley, coupled with Bailey’s repetitive interviews, highlights a failure in pacing and storytelling for lesser-known talent.

**The Rumors:**

1. **The Rock’s Controversial Exit:** Following an explosive confrontation with Cody Rhodes, The Rock’s abrupt departure from SmackDown left fans speculating about the heated exchange’s aftermath.

2. **Potential Hall of Fame Induction:** Reports suggest that The Rock’s grandmother, Leam Maivia, could be considered for induction into the WWE Hall of Fame, adding a familial legacy to the prestigious honor.

3. **The Rock’s Time Management Issues:** A leaked video showing WWE crew members urging The Rock to wrap up his segment raises questions about the wrestling icon’s time management skills and its impact on the show’s pacing.

4. **WWE’s Lucrative Sponsorship Deal:** The WWE’s recent partnership with Prime Energy marks a significant milestone, signaling a shift towards maximizing revenue streams through strategic collaborations.

5. **Nia Jax’s Dominance:** In a startling turn of events, Nia Jax’s altercation with a WWE official outside the ring underscores her formidable presence in the women’s division, leaving fans in awe of her brute force.

As WrestleMania 40 approaches, the WWE landscape is rife with anticipation, fueled by explosive rivalries and tantalizing rumors. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis from Wrestle Amia, your ultimate source for all things wrestling.