On the latest episode of WWE SmackDown, Nia Jax became embroiled in another controversy after a critical mistake during the main event Triple Threat match that featured Tiffany Stratton and Jade Cargill. This incident has reignited discussions about Jax’s in-ring reliability and caused significant fan frustration, highlighting ongoing issues within the company’s women’s division.
Details of the SmackDown Main Event Incident Involving Nia Jax
During the Triple Threat match, Nia Jax failed to kick out at one point when Tiffany Stratton pinned her, but the referee only counted a two-count instead of the expected three. This botched moment led to awkward confusion in the ring and became the focal point of many online conversations. Later in the match, Stratton executed her signature move, the Prettiest Moonsault Ever, to pin Jax and retain the WWE Women’s Championship.
Though Stratton’s victory was decisive, the more talked-about aspect was the unclear circumstances of the botch and who may have been responsible. Fans largely blamed Jax due to her previous history with in-ring errors, adding to the growing discontent surrounding her performances. This misstep has intensified criticism aimed at Jax and casts doubt over the quality control of key WWE matches.
Injury to Jade Cargill Adds to SmackDown Troubles
Compounding the controversy, the physical nature of the match resulted in Jade Cargill sustaining a serious injury. Cargill was sent crashing into the steel steps outside the ring by Jax, causing a significant wound that was visibly bleeding. Cargill later shared photos of the injury, underlining the harshness of the encounter and amplifying concerns about the safety measures in place during such intense bouts.
Upcoming WWE Events and Wrestler Futures
As this controversy unfolds, other key WWE storylines are developing. Roman Reigns is expected to return to action at WWE Crown Jewel 2025 and Survivor Series, with speculation pointing toward a WarGames match involving The Usos, possibly reuniting with Reigns to take on a team with Seth Rollins, Bron Breakker, and Bronson Reed. This high-stakes event could also feature major names such as John Cena, CM Punk, and Cody Rhodes, promising a marquee showdown this November.
Meanwhile, AJ Styles, a revered WWE veteran, recently confirmed plans to retire within the next year. Speaking to Tokyo Sports, Styles emphasized that he wants to retire before his physical abilities decline, stating,
“I will definitely retire within the next year. I don’t want the fans to see a side of me that isn’t AJ Styles. That is the main reason. I’ve decided to retire before my body can no longer move.”
AJ Styles hinted at a potential backstage role focused on training younger talent after retiring from active competition.
Contract Disputes Lead to Jazmyn Nyx’s WWE Departure
Behind the scenes, WWE is facing challenges in retaining talent, as Jazmyn Nyx has decided to leave the company due to unresolved contract disagreements. Reports reveal that Nyx was offered a new multi-year deal matching her previous contract worth roughly $75,000 per year, without an increase, which caused dissatisfaction. After taxes, Nyx was likely earning less than $60,000 annually, contributing to her decision to part ways with WWE.
Regarding her future, Nyx remarked on Snapchat,
“100% I would. It was a really hard decision for me, and I didn’t want my experience to end. I loved wrestling and had so much fun training and learning [from] the best.”
This statement suggests she remains open to returning to wrestling if offered better opportunities elsewhere.
The Impact and What Lies Ahead for WWE’s Women’s Division
The recent SmackDown event highlighted ongoing concerns about the consistency and safety of WWE’s women’s matches, with Nia Jax at the center of scrutiny due to the botched pinfall and the injury sustained by Jade Cargill. These incidents bring to light the potential risks involved in high-impact performances and the need for stringent oversight to protect performers and maintain match quality.
With major events like Survivor Series on the horizon, WWE faces pressure to deliver compelling and error-free shows that satisfy both fans and wrestlers. The controversies involving Jax add complexity to the company’s efforts to craft credible storylines and build emerging stars. Maintaining wrestler safety and addressing contract fairness, as evidenced by Jazmyn Nyx’s departure, will be crucial steps for WWE to strengthen its roster stability and fan support moving forward.
— Is this a work or shoot, brother? (@ShootOrWork) September 27, 2025
