After SmackDown concluded in Chicago, Jacob Fatu and AJ Styles teamed up unexpectedly to defeat the record-setting New Day in a surprise Tornado Tag Team match. This off-air encounter came following AJ Styles’ bout against Kofi Kingston, which ended in disqualification due to interference by Xavier Woods. The impromptu alliance allowed Fatu to secure a memorable win by driving Woods through a table, leaving WWE fans stunned by the unanticipated tag team victory.
AJ Styles and Kofi Kingston’s Match Interrupted
AJ Styles faced former WWE Champion Kofi Kingston in a dark match after SmackDown’s main show had ended. Despite the star power, the match was cut short after Xavier Woods disrupted the bout, causing a disqualification. This interference set the stage for Jacob Fatu’s arrival and the ensuing tag team contest, highlighting the unpredictable nature of these off-air segments.
Jacob Fatu’s Role and WWE’s Future Plans
Jacob Fatu’s participation in the unplanned tag team match raises questions about his next direction within WWE. Having recently parted ways with Solo Sikoa and the group MFT, and with Jimmy Uso now reportedly on RAW, Fatu’s status within the roster appears in transition. WWE seems to be evaluating the best way to integrate him moving forward, possibly capitalizing on his recent momentum from this surprise win.
Audience Reaction and Event Context
While the official SmackDown event drew major attention for AJ Lee’s highly anticipated return and her playful display of the Intercontinental Championship, the subsequent dark match added an electrifying bonus for the live crowd. The impromptu tag team victory gave Chicago fans an unexpected thrill after the broadcast ended, underscoring how WWE uses off-air matches to enhance live audience engagement.
AJ Styles, who was unable to claim the Intercontinental Championship from Dominik Mysterio earlier that week in Paris, may still pursue the title, as his involvement in this recent defeat of the New Day demonstrates his continued prominence. Meanwhile, the New Day endured another unexpected setback, this time at the hands of an unpredictable pairing featuring Jacob Fatu.
