WWE Women’s Champion Tiffany Stratton defeated Kiana James on Friday’s SmackDown. After the match, Kiana and Women’s United States Champion Giulia attacked The Buff Barbie. Jade Cargill then came out to make the save, but suddenly turned heel and brutally attacked Stratton. Officials had to step in to stop the assault, and before heading backstage, Cargill targeted the WWE Women’s Champion’s knee with a stiff kick.
While the segment generated buzz, many felt the heel turn lacked nuance. On Wrestling Observer Radio, Dave Meltzer discussed the segment, calling it too predictable and heavy-handed.
Meltzer argued that WWE could have gone in a completely different direction by having Stratton turn instead, since she has a stronger connection with the audience and a more natural babyface presence.
According to Meltzer, WWE’s creative team is fully committed to pushing Cargill, with plans already in place to position her as a dominant figure heading into WrestleMania 42 season.
He explained that WWE originally wanted to give her a major title run before her injury earlier this year, and that the company remains determined to make their signing from AEW look like a success.
Meltzer suggested that WWE’s motivation is as much about protecting its investment as it is about storytelling. He noted that Stratton is the more polished performer, but WWE doesn’t want to risk Cargill being perceived as an acquisition that didn’t work out.
Stratton was seen holding her knee in pain after the attack by Cargill. WWE provided an update on Stratton’s status via X and revealed that she is getting her knee evaluated after Cargill’s attack.
“BREAKING NEWS: @tiffstrattonwwe is getting her knee evaluated, but reports are that Tiffany Stratton is adamant about going through with the match on #SNME. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.”
Tiffany Stratton is scheduled to defend the WWE Women’s Championship against Jade Cargill at Saturday Night’s Main Event on November 1.
This update from WWE began speculation that Cargill will defeat Stratton to finally become Women’s Champion and WWE will protect Stratton after the loss due to the injury angle.
Also Read: Veteran Says WWE Has Lost Its Soul: “It Feels Like One Big Advertisement Now”
