WWE SmackDown Results Coverage, Reactions and Highlights For October 20, 2023

It’s Friday night and you know what that means! WWE SmackDown will go down tonight and Ringside News has got you covered with live play-by-play results coverage for the October 20, 2023 episode.

WWE SmackDown will start this week at 8:00 PM EST as always, match-by-match highlights and results from the show will take place on this very page. Feel free to leave any reactions in the comment section below. You can check out the lineup below.

WWE SmackDown (10/20/2023) Lineup:

• IYO SKY defends her title against The Queen
• Logan Paul will head to SmackDown this Friday to confront Rey Mysterio
• Santos Escobar has payback on his mind when he takes on Montez Ford

WWE NXT (10/20/2023) Results:

The commentators for the event include Michael Cole, Kevin Patrick, and Corey Graves.

We kick things off by revisiting last week’s episode, during which John Cena introduced LA Knight as a potential contender for Roman Reigns.

In the ring, Paul Heyman takes the microphone and begins by introducing himself. He acknowledges that this week, he has a significant role to play within the Bloodline. Heyman then commends Jimmy’s recent actions on Raw, highlighting how Jimmy effectively orchestrated a play, drawing motivation and inspiration from Roman Reigns.

Jimmy’s actions resulted in Jey Uso and Cody Rhodes losing the Tag Team titles. Paul Heyman brings up this development and then announces that Roman Reigns will be facing LA Knight at Crown Jewel.

Heyman humorously points out some differences between himself and the audience, such as being from New York, dressing well, and making more money. However, he emphasizes a shared interest: both he and the crowd are fans of LA Knight. He expresses his admiration for LA Knight and encourages everyone who’s a fan like him not to cheer too much because it will be the last time they see LA Knight in the ring after Crown Jewel, where he predicts that Knight will be defeated by Roman Reigns.

As LA Knight’s music hits, he enters the ring and takes the microphone from Heyman. Knight urges the crowd to make some noise and asks Heyman to step aside because he wants to address Roman directly. Knight wonders where Roman is and questions the absence of any threats if Roman doesn’t show up. He challenges Roman to reveal what he intends to do to Knight.

LA Knight asserts his authority by threatening to hit Paul Heyman if he attempts to leave the ring again. Knight mentions the word on the streets that Roman Reigns’ spear last week was a warning, and he questions whether that was the right course of action. He makes it clear that he doesn’t believe in warning shots, emphasizing that he will relentlessly pursue Roman until he not only dominates him in the ring but also claims the championship. LA Knight forcefully slapped the microphone into Paul Heyman’s chest and then departed from the ring, leaving a tense moment behind.

Knight challenges Roman’s courage, suggesting that Roman should admit to being scared because he’s never encountered someone like Knight before. He confidently states that just as swiftly as he rose to prominence, he will seize the title from Roman. Knight then announces that the contract signing for their match will occur right there next week. He instructs Paul Heyman to relay the message to Roman, emphasizing that it’s evident who holds the upper hand in this situation and that the undisputed truth is LA Knight.

In the backstage area, Montez Ford was seen preparing and warming up for his upcoming match. Meanwhile, inside the arena, Santos Escobar made his way to the ring, commencing his ring entrance.

Santos Escobar (w/ Joaquin Wilde & Cruz Del Toro) vs. Montez Ford (w/ Angelo Dawkins)

They start the match by locking up and find themselves in the corner. Escobar shoves Ford, but the referee intervenes to prevent a punch. Ford counters with a kick to the midsection followed by a punch and another kick, nearly getting a pinfall. He follows up with a back elbow and another near fall. Ford then applies a front face lock and delivers a corner splash. Escobar manages to float over, but Ford counters with a dropkick. Ford attempts a splash and almost secures another near fall.

Santos Escobar retaliates with kicks to Ford’s leg, but Ford sends him into the corner. Escobar responds with a kick and heads to the turnbuckles. Ford surprises him with an enzuigiri, causing Escobar to fall to the floor.

The action continues after a commercial break. Ford maintains control with an armbar and an Irish whip, all while the referee converses with Wilde. Ford executes a corner splash, earning yet another near fall.

During the match, we see Bobby Lashley watching on a monitor in the locker room, with Dawkins staying at ringside.

Escobar manages to regain some momentum with a chop and an attempt to counter a back elbow. Ford then leaps off the turnbuckles to execute a bulldog with his back to Escobar. Ford resumes with an armbar, but Santos Escobar fights back with elbows. Ford Irish whips Escobar, who floats over and delivers a dropkick. Santos Escobar proceeds with flying forearms and a superkick that sends Ford to the floor, followed by a suicide dive. He even scores a near fall with a crossbody. Escobar sets up for his running double knee strike and connects with it in the corner.

Escobar attempts the Phantom Driver, but Ford manages to escape and ends up on the apron. He kicks Escobar from there, who responds with an enzuigiri and heads to the top rope for a Frankensteiner. However, Dawkins pulls Ford out of harm’s way, causing Santos to crash into the ring post.

Wilde and Cruz go after Dawkins, but Angelo sends Cruz into the ring steps. Meanwhile, Santos hits a running knee on Dawkins. Ford rolls up Santos Escobar and secures the three-count victory.

Winner: Montez Ford

After the match, Ford and Dawkins attack Santos, but Carlito makes his way to the ring. The segment then transitions to The Bayley Bunch in the back, where Iyo is preparing for her match before cutting to a commercial break.

Rey and Zelina arrive to check on Cruz and the rest of the LWO (Latino World Order). Rey mentions that he has to deal with Logan Paul calling him out, and Zelina asks if they should join him since Rey previously referred to the LWO as family. Rey, however, reassures them that he can handle it on his own.

Next, the show highlights the triumphant return of Pretty Deadly on last week’s Smackdown, leading to a scene at the Flex-I Nail Salon after their victory. Kit expresses their excitement, with Elton adding that they are living the dream. Kit humorously mentions his excitement level being akin to the opening night of Taylor Swift’s tour. They discuss their convincing win last week and comment on how the Brawling Brutes always disappear after a loss. However, Butch and Ridge suddenly sneak up behind Kit and Elton, delivering forearms and dunking their heads into the foot bath.

In another segment, Solo is standing behind Paul, and Jimmy enters the room. Jimmy brings up his actions on Raw and how he cost Jey and Cody their championships. Paul acknowledges that he’s already discussed this with Jimmy, while Jimmy continues to celebrate his actions. The scene then transitions to John Cena walking backstage.

John Cena’s music hits, and he begins his entrance, making his way to the ring to address the audience. The crowd eagerly awaits his arrival, anticipating what he has to say or do next.

John Cena starts by acknowledging the fired-up crowd and expresses his gratitude for their “Thank you, Cena” chants. He mentions that it’s been a rough day and that he recently discovered a harsh truth. Cena confesses that he should be honest with himself and the audience. He talks about mentioning Roman Reigns’ streak last week and then drops a bombshell: it’s been 2,002 days since he last won a televised singles match, dating back to 2018. Cena believes it’s time to face the facts and addresses his previous talk of retirement. He maintains his belief in himself and his ability to still bring it, declaring that it’s time to turn things around. He warns that the next wrestler who comes through that curtain is going to have a bad night because they’re going to get “smoked.”

At this point, Solo Sikoa makes his entrance and steps into the ring. Cena blocks a punch, punches Solo, Irish whips him, and follows up with a splash. Jimmy Uso then enters the ring and delivers a superkick to Cena. Solo joins in with a kick, but a masked man suddenly pulls Jimmy out of the ring and reveals himself to be Jey Uso. Jimmy attempts to escape, but Jey stops him and sends Jimmy over the ringside barrier.

Jey is held back by officials while Jimmy calls for a time-out. Solo attempts a Samoan Spike, but Cena counters with an Attitude Adjustment. Jimmy and Solo make their way backstage while Cena poses in the ring.

As the scene settles, a vehicle pulls into the garage, and Logan Paul emerges. The broadcast then goes to a commercial break.

Alba Fyre and Isla Dawn address the situation, expressing their displeasure with someone meddling in their affairs. They emphasize that they are talking about what rightfully belongs to them.

The broadcast then shows a recap of the events that unfolded in the main event of Raw.

In Nick’s office, Jey is present, and he instructs security to stop. Nick informs Jey that he is fining him $10,000 for his actions, and Adam suggests that the same should be done to Jimmy. Nick decides that both Jey and Jimmy should be escorted out of the building.

Adam seeks clarification and asks if he’s also being asked to leave, to which Nick confirms. Adam responds by saying, “the game is on.”

The scene transitions as Logan Paul makes his way to the ring, presumably to address the audience.

Logan Paul starts by recounting his recent victory in England, where he fought and beat someone he describes as a scumbag. He downplays the fight, calling it an insult to real combat. Logan mentions that if he wanted genuine competition, he could have another WWE match. He acknowledges his victory over an internet troll and a previous victory over Rey Mysterio in his first WWE match. Logan humorously notes that the last time he faced Rey, Dominik was still considered his son, and LA Knight wasn’t even employed by WWE. He talks about the changes in his life, including his engagement and a multi-billion-dollar hydration company. Logan proudly declares himself a WWE Superstar.

Logan clarifies that he’s not there to discuss Rey but mentions that Rey has something he needs—respect, legacy, and the United States Championship. Logan admits that he beat up a “deadbeat dad” last week and is willing to do it again at Crown Jewel to claim the championship.

Rey Mysterio makes his entrance and tells Logan that he reminds him of his son, Dominik. He acknowledges Logan’s natural ability, passion, and the bright career ahead of him but points out the big mouth, just like Dominik. Rey says something to Logan in Spanish and then mentions that Logan needs some humbling. He recalls the last time he had to teach Dominik a lesson, emphasizing that he won’t hesitate to whoop Logan’s behind.

Rey mentions that Logan wants the title and needs it, to which Logan affirms. Rey accepts Logan’s challenge, agreeing to defend the United States Championship against him.

Logan extends his hand to Rey, wishing him luck and offering a handshake. Rey looks around cautiously before ultimately shaking Logan’s hand, solidifying the agreement for their upcoming match.

In the backstage area, Charlotte Flair is seen getting ready for her upcoming match against Iyo. She’s likely focused and preparing herself both mentally and physically for the bout.

Grayson Waller and Austin Theory vs. Cameron Grimes and Dragon Lee

The match starts with Theory and Lee in the ring. Theory begins with a side headlock and follows it up with a shoulder tackle. After the move, Theory poses for the crowd, but Lee quickly gets back to his feet. Lee counters Theory’s offense with a head scissors takedown, and Waller is tagged in. Lee delivers a dropkick to Theory, and Waller follows with a forearm. However, when Waller charges forward, he runs into a boot from his opponent.

Grimes enters the match and executes a reverse atomic drop on Theory, with Lee following up with a back heel kick. Lee and Grimes then combine for a double kick on Waller, causing him to roll out of the ring. Grimes seizes the opportunity to kick Theory, but Waller pulls Grimes off the apron. Grimes retaliates by sending Waller into the ring post, and Lee assists in sending Theory into the ring post as well.

A commercial break intervenes.

When the show returns, Waller kicks Lee and delivers a European uppercut. Theory tags in and faces off with Lee. Lee manages to kick Theory and executes a tornado DDT, using Theory’s own momentum to his advantage. Lee then tags in Grimes, who lands a crossbody on Theory and follows it up with a running forearm. Grimes proceeds to strike Waller and then kicks him. He hits a German suplex on Theory but only gets a near fall.

Lee kicks Waller, sending him to the floor, and Grimes hits a Spanish Fly press on Theory for another near fall. However, Theory regains control by raking Grimes’ eyes. Waller sends Lee over the ringside barrier, and Grimes attempts a roll-up. Still, Waller counters with a slingshot rolling flatliner. Theory capitalizes by hitting “A Town Down” for the three-count victory.

Winners: Austin Theory and Grayson Waller

The show then briefly looks back at Triple H’s announcement from last week about the new General Manager before heading into another commercial break.

Cathy Kelley is shown interviewing Kevin Owens earlier in the day. She inquires about how he feels now that he’s separated from Sami Zayn.

Kevin Owens admits that it doesn’t feel great. He and Sami worked hard to achieve what they did this year, even main eventing WrestleMania together. With two decades of experience in the business, it’s challenging to be split up, especially after losing the tag titles. However, Kevin sees it as a clean slate and looks forward to this new chapter.

Cathy asks about Kevin encountering new and old faces on SmackDown.

Kevin mentions the Bloodline and suggests that their paths will cross. He humorously notes that he’s wearing a Yokozuna shirt, emphasizing his desire to face superstars like Rey Mysterio, Sheamus, and even The Brawling Brutes. Kevin playfully offers to punch someone on Cathy’s behalf, and she refrains from responding. He then brings up Austin and Waller, emphasizing his intention to let everyone know that this is the “KO Show.”

Kevin mentions some upcoming events, including a match between Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar facing The Street Profits next week and a contract signing for the Roman Reigns vs. LA Knight match at Crown Jewel. He also notes that SmackDown will be on FS1 next week.

Charlotte Flair vs. Iyo Sky (with Bayley and Dakota Kai) for the Women’s Championship

The match starts with Charlotte Flair and Iyo locking up. Charlotte attempts to apply the Figure Four, but Iyo manages to escape and rolls out of the ring.

A commercial break interrupts the action.

When the show returns, Flair has Iyo trapped in a Figure Four head scissors and rolls her around the ring. Iyo breaks free with a jawbreaker, but Flair counters with a chop. Iyo Irish whips Flair, who executes the Flair flip to the apron. Flair responds with kicks, but Bayley interferes, allowing Iyo to kick Flair off the apron. Iyo follows up with a suicide crossbody and sends Flair back into the ring, hitting a springboard dropkick. She goes for a near fall and applies a rear chin lock, pulling Flair to the mat by her hair. Iyo holds onto the chin lock, and Flair eventually counters with a belly-to-back suplex. However, she runs into an elbow in the corner, and Iyo kicks her leg and attempts a monkey flip. Flair blocks it and places Iyo on the ropes, but Iyo counters with a body scissors to send Flair over the top rope to the floor. Flair blocks a head scissors off the apron and drops Iyo face-first onto the apron.

Another commercial break occurs.

After the break, Flair attempts a superplex, but Iyo stops her with a punch. Iyo then executes a sunset flip powerbomb for a near fall. She follows up with a running double knee strike for another near fall and transitions into a satellite head scissors into a crossface. Flair goes for a backbreaker, but Iyo lands on her feet. Flair counters with a wheelbarrow suplex, and both women are down. Flair delivers chops, and Iyo responds with a cross body. Flair catches her and hits a fallaway slam, followed by an exploder. Iyo gets her boots up to counter a cross body attempt, but Flair catches her and goes to the turnbuckles for a super fallaway slam, earning a near fall. Iyo goes to the apron, and she drops Flair on the top rope. She attempts a springboard dropkick, but Flair blocks it and applies the Boston Crab. Iyo tries to reach the ropes but rolls up Flair for a near fall. Iyo retaliates with a Shotei, and Flair responds with a forearm and attempts to place Iyo’s leg on the rope. Iyo escapes and starts working on Flair’s knee. Flair’s knee gives out, and Iyo hits a dropkick into the corner. Iyo goes up top for a moonsault, but Flair gets her feet up. Flair follows up with a spear, but Bayley places Iyo’s foot on the rope to break the count. Bayley gets on the apron to argue with the referee, and Flair delivers forearms to Bayley, sending her over the announce table. The referee begins the count, and Charlotte re-enters the ring. Dakota Kai distracts the referee, and Flair spears Iyo. However, she inadvertently hits the title belt that was in Iyo’s hands. Iyo takes advantage and pins Flair for the three count.

Winner: Iyo Sky (retains championship)

After the match, Bayley and Iyo continue their attack on Flair until Bianca Belair’s music hits, causing them to stop due to the “champion’s privilege” rule. Bianca kicks Bayley and delivers a spinebuster. She attempts KOD on Iyo, but Bayley intervenes, pulling Iyo off Bianca’s shoulders. Bianca retaliates with KOD to Bayley.

Bianca helps Flair to her feet, and the show concludes.