The July 4 episode of WWE SmackDown ended with a shocking twist as Chris Sabin found himself betrayed by Johnny Gargano during a critical 8-man tag team match against the Wyatt Sicks. The match took place amid ongoing tension in the SmackDown men’s tag team division, which has been unsettled for weeks due to the resurgence of the Wyatt Sicks faction, led by Uncle Howdy. Returning on May 23 after a five-month absence, the Wyatts have been a constant threat, and the teams have struggled to overcome them despite numerous backstage confrontations and matches. Sabin initially appeared confident, but Gargano unexpectedly retreated during the bout, leaving Sabin vulnerable to an Iron Claw Slam delivered by Rowan, which ended the match unfavorably for Sabin’s team.
Chris Sabin Publicly Demands Revenge on Johnny Gargano
Following the betrayal in the ring, former WWE Tag Team Champion Chris Sabin expressed his frustration and determination on social media. His message to Johnny Gargano was clear, signaling that he is seeking retribution and closure after the surprising double-cross. With the men’s tag division already strained from fighting the Wyatt Sicks, internal conflicts like Gargano’s actions risk further weakening their collective efforts against their common enemies. Sabin’s post on X plainly stated,
“Looks like I owe you one, JOHNNY G”
— a direct challenge that underscores the rising tension in SmackDown’s faction battles.
Wyatt Sicks’ Return Continues to Disrupt SmackDown Tag Teams
The Wyatt Sicks’ comeback has dramatically affected the dynamics within WWE SmackDown’s tag team scene. Since their May entry, the faction’s presence and aggressive style have reignited old rivalries and forced various teams to reconsider their strategies. Weekly segments have depicted growing frustrations as teams exchange heated words backstage, setting the stage for increasingly intense confrontations. The betrayal by Gargano adds a volatile element to this already unstable environment, complicating alliances and undermining trust among the remaining contenders aiming to dismantle the Wyatt Sicks.
Wider WWE Landscape Sees Several Significant Developments
Beyond Chris Sabin’s personal vendetta, WWE continues to witness major storyline and roster changes. Notably, a legendary WWE star is reportedly preparing for an in-ring return after seven years, aiming to make a big appearance at an upcoming PLE event. Meanwhile, the AEW scene remains dynamic, with Adam Page and Jon Moxley set to face off for the AEW World Championship, and speculation continues around a formerly absent AEW wrestler possibly challenging Moxley in the future.
In WWE’s own ranks, rumors circulate about a prominent babyface turning heel, following a recent loss at Night of Champions. Additionally, Jey Uso, who recently lost the World Heavyweight Championship after a short 51-day reign, faces uncertainty around his next moves, especially concerning any alliance with Jacob Fatu in a looming conflict against Solo Sikoa.
Other notable news includes a veteran wrestler cautioning WWE about the potential fallout from the upcoming Goldberg versus Gunther match, as it is widely expected to be Goldberg’s final bout. Elsewhere, Karrion Kross made headlines due to an unexpected promo during an ad break on WWE Raw, drawing attention from fans and commentators alike.
Impact of the Betrayal and Future Prospects in SmackDown
The betrayal of Chris Sabin by Johnny Gargano on SmackDown highlights the fragile nature of relationships within WWE’s men’s tag team division at this time. As the Wyatt Sicks maintain a stronghold on the feud landscape, internal distrust threatens the unity necessary to overcome such a dominant faction. Sabin’s vow for payback sets up a personal storyline that could intensify in upcoming episodes, potentially reshaping alliances and rivalries within SmackDown. How Sabin pursues this revenge and how Gargano responds will be pivotal in defining the tag team division’s future direction and the ongoing struggle against the Wyatt Sicks menace.
