WWE SmackDown Live Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for January 3
By Grant Mannis
WWE Intercontinental Championship Match
The Miz (c) vs. Dean Ambrose
Result: Dean Ambrose wins via pinfall to become the new WWE Intercontinental Champion.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars
As Jack Gallagher hyped up his appearance on 205Live after the commercial break, we learned of three matches that will take place next week on SmackDown Live. The tag title match, Baron Corbin versus John Cena, and Natalya versus Nikki Bella will all take place next week.
Back and forth throughout, this was a great main event start off a new year for SmackDown Live. Both challenger and champion looked great, and it helped to show just how much the Blue Brand has improved. During the closing moments of the match, Maryse attempted to draw the disqualification finish by slapping Ambrose once again. The referee saw this and was about to ring the bell, but he was convinced by Ambrose to eject her instead. This allowed Miz to hit Ambrose in the back with the title belt, which only managed to draw a two count. Moments later, Ambrose managed to hit Dirty Deeds to win his second Intercontinental Championship.
Related Story: Big Title Change on SmackDown
Once again, SmackDown Live delivered a great episode. Each match and segment furthered a rivalry or served to enhance a particular male or female athlete. It’ll be interesting to see what 2017 holds for the Blue Brand, but if tonight is any reflection, the sky is indeed the limit.