The Main Events
Jack Swagger defeated Randy Orton to bring us into the second hour of the show. I really enjoyed this match for a few reasons. Since Swagger is the number one contender, he must separate himself from squash matches against Zack Ryder and consistently face top tier talent. Orton is that guy, but Orton also needs to stay hot and not get buried down. He is a marketable piece on Smackdown, and should still be used in a main event spot. Swagger continues to impress me in the ring, with more aggression from the simple moves like a kick to the stomach. He is following through on his moves, hitting newer moves like a deadlift after his Powerbomb, and still is a cheap heel to get heat from the crowd. Zeb distracts Orton after it looks like he is going to finish off Swagger, and Swagger uses his feet on the ropes to get the win. A cheap win, but a way for an American to get much needed heat from Orton and the crowd. This was successful. Grade: B+
Alberto Del Rio defeated Wade Barrett in an excellent match to end Smackdown. I was really impressed with Smackdown tonight, with their main focus on wrestling. They realize they have plenty of time to build storylines and figure out feuds for Wrestlemania, so they kept it simple tonight. Alberto Del Rio kicked off the night talking about being proud to live in this country, talking about what he has done, and basically trying to bury Jack Swagger. Swagger, after his victory, came to the ring to watch this match. Del Rio and Barrett put on a clinic in the ring of expertise, chemistry, and overall excellence. Wade was in his own world and character, connecting with multiple shots to Del Rio's body, and hitting a beautiful kick to his sternum. Del Rio would ultimately come back firing on all cylinders, kicking Barrett in the head and grapping him several times on the mat. Del Rio connects with a Superkick, but only gets a two count. A few two counts later is where the match hits the climax. Del Rio hits a backstabber, but here comes Jack Swagger walking down the ramp. Wade rolls up Del Rio, only to get a two count. Alberto ducks the Bullhammer and locks in his submission hold, forcing the Brit to tap out. Like I said, fantastic match, and they did not overexpose the Swagger vs. Del Rio feud too much. If they want this to succees (and Swagger did not smoke his way out of Wrestlemania) let it boil for a bit until actual physicality takes over. Grade: A
WWE Smackdown Grade: B
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