WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event Returns: Cody Rhodes Retains Undisputed Title Amid Controversy

WWE brought back an old favourite on Saturday night with the revival of Saturday Night’s Main Event. After a hiatus since 2008, the iconic show returned to the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum in Uniondale, New York, where it originally premiered in 1985. Fans were treated to an action-packed night featuring four championship matches and a heated grudge match between Drew McIntyre and Sami Zayn. Let’s dive into the event’s results, highlights, and key moments.

Cody Rhodes Retains Undisputed WWE Championship

The main event saw Cody Rhodes successfully defend his Undisputed WWE Championship against Kevin Owens. But the victory wasn’t without controversy. Owens, seeking validation and redemption, looked to have the match won after hitting a Stunner. However, the referee had been incapacitated, leaving no one to count the pinfall.

Using the chaos, Rhodes capitalized on a steel chair Owens had introduced into the match. Rhodes hit Cross Rhodes onto the chair and slid it out of the ring before the referee recovered to count the pinfall. This questionable tactic left Owens furious and the audience buzzing. The win sets up what could be an even more heated rematch, potentially at the Royal Rumble.

Match Grade: A

Gunther Retains World Heavyweight Championship

In a high-energy Triple Threat match, Gunther defended his World Heavyweight Championship against Damian Priest and Finn Bálor. The game was fast-paced, with all three competitors delivering powerful performances. Priest and Bálor’s focus on one-upping each other allowed Gunther to seize opportunities and remain in control at key moments.

Gunther’s decisive moment came when he delivered a brutal powerbomb to Priest on the steel steps, followed by another to Bálor in the ring. The Ring General’s dominance continues, but this victory may mark the end of Priest and Bálor’s pursuit of the title.

Match Grade: B+

Liv Morgan Retains Women’s World Championship

Liv Morgan put her Women’s World Championship on the line against Iyo Sky. The match showcased Sky’s technical abilities and high-flying moves, but Morgan’s resilience was the deciding factor. Despite a few missteps in execution, Morgan’s Oblivion finisher secured her the win.

The post-match staredown between Morgan and Rhea Ripley electrified the crowd. Ripley, seeking to reclaim the title she never lost, made it clear that Morgan is in her sights.

Match Grade: B-

Chelsea Green Becomes Inaugural Women’s United States Champion

Chelsea Green made history by defeating Michigan as the first-ever Women’s United States Champion. With Piper Niven in her corner, Green used her ally’s interference to gain the upper hand. Despite Michin’s valiant effort, Green’s use of the Unprettier sealed the victory.

The match, while solid, suffered from time constraints, but Green’s win was a crowd-pleasing moment. The budding rivalry between Michigan and Niven intrigues the newly established championship.

Match Grade: C+

Drew McIntyre Defeats Sami Zayn in Grudge Match

The show opened with a fierce battle between Drew McIntyre and Sami Zayn. Zayn came out strong, using his agility and determination to take the fight to McIntyre. However, McIntyre’s power proved too much in the end. After dodging a Helluva Kick, McIntyre connected with a devastating Claymore to secure the pinfall.

The match was a great way to kick off the show, with both competitors performing stellar. McIntyre’s win continues his storyline of dominance, while Zayn’s resilience earned him loud cheers from the crowd.

Match Grade: B

Memorable Moments and Highlights

1. Jesse Ventura Returns to Commentary: Wrestling legend Jesse “The Body” Ventura joined the commentary team for the night, providing colourful insights and a nostalgic touch. Ventura’s chemistry with Michael Cole and Pat McAfee added an extra layer of excitement to the broadcast.
2. Nostalgic Atmosphere: WWE’s production team went all out to create a throwback feel while incorporating modern elements. The event’s presentation struck a perfect balance, appealing to longtime fans and newer viewers.
3. Rhea Ripley’s Arrival: Ripley’s post-match confrontation with Morgan hinted at a significant rivalry brewing for the Women’s World Championship. Fans are eager to see how this storyline unfolds.
4. Cody Rhodes Wears Winged Eagle Belt: Rhodes’ entrance with the classic “winged eagle” championship belt was a nostalgic nod to WWE history and a visual treat for fans.

Overall Event Grade: B+

Saturday Night’s Main Event delivered an enjoyable mix of nostalgia and high-stakes action. While some matches felt rushed due to time constraints, the pacing kept viewers engaged. The event successfully blended classic elements with the current WWE product, making it a hit with fans of all generations.

One improvement could be adding a significant storyline development or a shocking moment to create a must-see fallout on Raw or SmackDown. Nonetheless, the show was a welcome return to form for Saturday Night’s Main Event. Fans are already looking forward to what WWE has planned for the next installment.