On Tuesday, May 19, WWE taped the May 21 edition of “Smackdown” in Norfolk, Virginia.
Below are spoilers for the May 21 “Smackdown:”
The show kicked off with what was billed as Roman Reigns’ “return” to the program. He reflected about “Payback,” where he failed to walk out of the event as WWE World Heavyweight Champion. Reigns hit on the moment where he, Dean Ambrose, and Seth Rollins ganged up on Randy Orton for a triple powerbomb. Reigns said he briefly had fun during the moment reminiscent of the trio’s work as The Shield. He proceeded to declare that he will enter the Money in the Bank match coming up in June.
Next, Dean Ambrose entered, talking about “Money in the Bank.” Ambrose told Reigns if he were to win the Money in the Bank briefcase, he would be his opponent because he is going to defeat Seth Rollins at “Elimination Chamber.” Kane interrupted, telling Ambrose The Authority will prevail in the end, like always. He also took the time to inform Reigns he will not be allowed to enter the Money in the Bank match because of his losses at WrestleMania and “Payback.” In closing, the on-screen WWE Director of Operations gave Reigns the night off, and told Ambrose he will face Bray Wyatt later on.
1) Lucha Dragons def. Cesaro and Tyson Kidd, The Ascension, and Los Matadores- The New Day and The Primetime Players, the other two tag teams in the six-team Elimination Chamber match for the WWE Tag Team Championship, were ringside. In what was said to be a solid opening match, Lucha Dragons used a top rope move to pin Los Matadores.
Backstage, Renee Young talked to Dolph Ziggler. Lana walked by, taking the opportunity to flirt with Ziggler.
2) Dolph Ziggler def. King Barrett- Watching from ringside, Lana was ecstatic that Ziggler beat Barrett.
Paige, who returned on the May 18 edition of “Monday Night Raw,” entered to a pop. She discussed how she is still the No. 1 contender to the Divas Championship. Naomi, flanked by Tamina Snuka, came out to trash talk Paige. The two proceeded to jump her, leading to Divas Champion Nikki Bella to appear in order to make the save.
A cryptic and obscure Bray Wyatt promo aired.
3) R-Truth def. Stardust
4) Axelmania and Macho Mandow, The Meta Powers, def. Adam Rose and Heath Slater
Backstage, Renee Young interviewed the inspirational Bo Dallas.
5) Dean Ambrose def. Bray Wyatt- During the match, J&J Security ran in, trying to get Ambrose off his game. Eventually, WWE World Heavyweight Champion Seth Rollins also made his way ringside. Reigns, who was given the night off, came out to save Ambrose. As the back-and-forth match went on, Ambrose beat Wyatt with “Dirty Deeds.” “Smackdown” went off the air with Dean Ambrose in the ring staring down Seth Rollins, who was stood at the ramp.