The following editorial was written by Tyler Treese and does not reflect the views of WrestleZone as a whole. Feel free to chime in on our SmackDown Live review in the comments below.

SmackDown Live Review

Tonight’s episode of SmackDown Live was a jam packed one full of interesting events. To help you digest the episode, check out our five takeaways from the latest episode that showcased the blue brand in our SmackDown Live review for the December 18, 2018 episode.

An Unceremonious Goodbye

The removal of Paige’s role as SmackDown General Manager was quickly done at the top of the show with little fanfare or theatrics. It was an odd moment, especially since Paige had done a good job (both in kayfabe and not), and it wasn’t something to take any joy in like with Baron Corbin. Rather than fans celebrating like when Corbin got what he deserved, it elicited confusion. I get that WWE is marketing this as a new era, but removing Paige really makes no sense, even if they assured us that she wasn’t “going anywhere.”

Asuka

Vince McMahon came out to make a title match between Asuka and Naomi, and it was a pretty fun match between the two talented performers. I love that they are keeping the champions active on television, and this was a great way to start SmackDown Live.

Asking For A Blessing

I’ve been enjoying everything about the “Co-Besties” storyline over the past month, but this was a new level of comedy as Miz asked Vince McMahon for “his blessing” with regards to Shane being his tag team partner. Vince’s response was hysterical, and this continues to be the best part of SmackDown Live other than Daniel Bryan.

Good Brothers!

Finally! It’s been far too long since Karl Anderson and Luke Gallows have been on SmackDown. They’ve been the most underutilized part of the roster, and their match against The Usos was predictably entertaining until all of the interference by Sanity & The Bar. The past two nights have seen some fresher than usual match-ups, and that’s easily one of the best side effects of the “New Era.”

Plus, we got to see Karl Anderson’s abs, and that’s something everyone can celebrate.

Shame! Shame! Shame!

The tag match between Daniel Bryan and Andrade Almas versus Mustafa Ali and AJ Styles was fantastic. It’s great to see such talented pairings together, and it was a perfect showcase of how tag wrestling can help further singles feuds without giving too much away on television. It also was an excellent way to show off SmackDown Live’s latest roster member, Mustafa Ali. He’s certainly talented enough to put on fantastic matches, and really deserves the opportunity.

Feel free to give your own SmackDown Live review in the comments below!

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