A New Era for Wrestling Uncensored
Dave Simon and Johnny North returned with the first Wrestling Uncensored episode of 2025, sharing their thoughts on the week in professional wrestling. From Tiffany Stratton’s big moment to discussions on SmackDown’s evolving format, the duo entertained fans during their live coverage. With input from the viewing audience across platforms like YouTube, Rumble, Twitch, and Kick, this episode set the tone for the road to major WWE and AEW events.
“We’re kicking off 2025 with a lot of changes in the wrestling world,” Dave remarked. Johnny added, “And we’re here to break it all down for you while watching SmackDown live. Let’s get into it.”
During the show’s chat, Audience member Alex said, “This format feels fresh for Wrestling Uncensored. Loving the live reactions.”
SmackDown’s Big Change: Accessibility Woes
SmackDown’s transition to online streaming was a major talking point. With the WWE’s deal with Sportsnet ending on January 1st, Canadian viewers struggled to find the broadcast. “SmackDown isn’t even on TV in Canada tonight,” Dave said, highlighting the confusion. “You had to dig around online just to find the YouTube link.”
Johnny shared his frustration, noting, “I had to work really hard to find it. Eventually, I got it on YouTube, but it was blocked in my region at first. It’s not user-friendly at all.” The hosts discussed WWE’s plan to move SmackDown to Netflix starting January 10th, a move they hope will improve accessibility.
Viewers echoed similar sentiments. Ryan commented, “Why does WWE make it so hard to watch their shows? Just put it on Netflix already.”
Tiffany Stratton Takes the Gold
The highlight of SmackDown was Tiffany Stratton’s successful Money in the Bank cash-in. “Tiffy time is the new women’s champion,” Dave exclaimed as he detailed the chaotic events leading to the win. Tiffany capitalized on a messy Nia Jax vs. Naomi match, orchestrating interference and delivering a moonsault to secure her victory.
Johnny had his critiques of the segment, saying, “Why did Bianca attack Nia, and why was she so easily taken out after being tossed over the table? That made no sense.” Dave defended the storytelling, suggesting, “It’s about moving the division forward, and Tiffany is the right person to hold the title now.”
Fans celebrated Tiffany’s win in the chat. Alex wrote, “Finally, Tiffy gets her moment! This took forever, but it’s worth it.” Meanwhile, Ryan joked, “Bianca’s over-the-table bump deserves an Oscar for best dramatic fall.”
The Bloodline is victorious ☝️☝️☝️
— WWE (@WWE) January 4, 2025
Will Solo Sikoa come out on top THIS MONDAY at the @netflix premiere of #WWERaw?#SmackDown pic.twitter.com/XyHdZ82BoB
Usos and Sami Zayn: Tensions and Entrances
A notable segment of SmackDown was the prolonged entrance of the Usos and Sami Zayn. “They’re milking these entrances to fill up the three-hour show,” Dave remarked. “It’s frustrating, but it also shows how over Jey Uso is with the crowd.”
Johnny added, “Half the crowd was doing the hand gestures, but the other half looked like they were just standing around.” Despite the mixed reactions, the segment underscored the ongoing storyline momentum for the Bloodline and their allies.
Viewer Alex commented, “I love Jey’s entrance, but three hours of SmackDown is way too much filler.” Ryan chimed in, “Can we just get to the matches without all this walking?”
Tag Team Turmoil: Pretty Deadly Steals the Spotlight
The tag team division saw plenty of action, with Pretty Deadly becoming central figures in multiple storylines. “They’re getting a push and more TV time,” Dave noted. “It’s nice to see them involved in the tag team title scene.”
Johnny highlighted the positives, saying, “They’re giving matches more time to breathe now. The Nakamura vs. Andrade match felt more substantial because of this.” However, he also expressed concerns about pacing, adding, “Not every match needs to go through commercial breaks; it drags the show unnecessarily.”
Audience member Ryan weighed in, saying, “Pretty Deadly is fun, but I’m still rooting for Street Profits to reclaim the gold.” Dave responded, “I’d love to see Pretty Deadly take the titles off DIY. It’s time for a fresh direction.”
CM Punk and Seth Rollins: Verbal Fireworks Ahead of Monday
The brewing rivalry between CM Punk and Seth Rollins took center stage as they exchanged heated promos on Raw. “Punk called Seth corporate, and Seth didn’t hold back either,” Dave noted. “This is the kind of intensity we need heading into next week’s showdown.”
Johnny praised Punk’s promo skills, saying, “He brought up some real zingers about Seth being favoured by management. It’s classic Punk.” Dave agreed, adding, “Seth’s response about Punk taking his ball and going home hit hard. This is going to be a must-watch match.”
Audience members also shared their excitement. Alex wrote, “Punk vs. Seth is what we’ve been waiting for. This feud feels real.” Meanwhile, Ryan said, “The promos alone are worth tuning in for. Let’s hope the match delivers.”
AEW’s Struggles and WWE’s Dominance
AEW’s current state and WWE’s ability to coast without strong competition were hot topics. “AEW isn’t making their roster interesting on a week-by-week basis,” Dave remarked. “WWE knows they can just cruise to WrestleMania season without breaking a sweat.”
Johnny added, “It will be tough for AEW to keep top-tier talent if WWE decides to make big moves. Swerve and MJF are names to watch.”
Viewer Alex commented, “AEW needs to step it up. WWE is steamrolling them right now.” Meanwhile, Ryan asked, “When’s the last time WWE did a major talent raid? It’s been a while, but they’re capable of it.”
The hosts speculated about WWE’s next steps. “They might just buy up the top AEW talent when contracts expire,” Dave suggested. “It’s a strategy they’ve used before, and it always revitalizes their product.”
The Road to Royal Rumble and AEW Grand Slam
Looking ahead, the Royal Rumble and AEW’s Grand Slam were briefly touched upon. “These events will shape the early part of 2025,” Dave said. “The Rumble always delivers surprises, and AEW needs Grand Slam to make a statement.”
Johnny teased future discussions, saying, “We’ll dive deeper into the Rumble lineup as it develops. For now, it’s all about setting the stage.”
Fans in the chat expressed excitement. Alex wrote, “Can’t wait for the Rumble. It’s my favourite event of the year!”
