The WWE Universe was introduced to a brand-new match type last night before SmackDown went on the air.
The December 15, episode of SmackDown saw the return of Undisputed WWE Universal Champion Roman Reigns, who was immediately confronted by Randy Orton. While the Viper demanded a match against Reigns for the Royal Rumble PLE, the Tribal Chief was in no hurry to grant the match. The show also saw the return of AJ Styles, who turned heel with an attack on LA Knight.
What is WWE Speed?
Before SmackDown began broadcasting, the fans in attendance were treated to the introduction of the WWE Speed Match. The match sees a five-minute time limit, meaning Superstars must work quickly to secure the win. SmackDown saw two ‘Speed Matches’ with ‘Big’ Bronson Reed facing NXT Superstar Nathan Frazer in the first. Later on, Cedric Alexander faced NXT’s Axiom.
Per Fightful, Corey Graves and Kevin Patrick were on commentary, and the matches were filmed as if they’d be broadcasted. There’s no word yet if these matches, or the WWE Speed concept, will make its way onto WWE programming in the months ahead.
— Ultimate Wrestling Trivia (@UltWresTrivia) December 16, 2023
Another Potential Change
WWE is introducing the Speed Match, but may have made a massive change to wrestling staple the ‘Steel Cage Match’. At WWE NXT Deadline, Roxanne Perez faced Kiana James in a cage match.
It was mentioned during the show that the match could be won only via pinfall or submission, removing the traditional rule of escaping the structure for victory. It’s currently unclear if this was a one-off change for this match or if this is how Steel Cage matches will go moving forward.