WWE SmackDown Live Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for February 21

A Heartbreaking Moment

Normally, when Daniel Bryan makes an appearance on SmackDown Live, it’s usually to create matches or stick it to the heels on the Blue Brand. Tonight things took a more somber route, as the Women’s Champion Naomi was called to the ring. Informing both her and the live audience that her injury would keep her from competing for 30 days, he expressed regret in telling her that she needed to relinquish the title. Although he was proud of what the young competitor has accomplished as of late, there must be a champion who can consistently compete.

Handling the situation with as much class as she could muster, Naomi hugged the General Manager and went on to address the fans. Clearly emotional over the fact that WrestleMania is probably out of reach for her now, she apologized to the fans who had followed her on this journey. Promising to return better than ever, Naomi was preparing to leave the ring when a familiar rival appeared.

Happy as can be over the fact that Naomi was vacating the championship, Alexa Bliss took time to ridicule the former champion for the injury. Offering to solve this new dilemma, the arrogant superstar suggested that Bryan awards her with the championship. While Bryan teased agreeing with Bliss, he ultimately decided that a match needed to take place. Effective immediately, Becky Lynch would come out and face Bliss right then and there to crown a new champion.