WWE SmackDown Live Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for July 4

The Face That Runs the Place

At the top of the hour, SmackDown Live begins with the return of John Cena. In almost no time at all, the familiar dual chants of “Let’s go Cena” and “Cena sucks” filled the arena. Taking a moment to express his love for the United States, he then changes his focus to his current status. Fans and superstars alike may think his ventures to Hollywood are lessening his impact and contributions to the industry, however, Cena thinks otherwise. He’s not a part-timer, he’s an all-timer, and now both brands should be on notice.

Naming a number of top stars on Raw and SmackDown Live, he announces his intention to continue his decade and a half of dominance. Cena is back, and his passion is stronger than ever before. As far as he’s concern, at this stage of his career he has nothing to lose. The former 16-time world champion goes to continue his promo from here, but Rusev interrupts and in the process, makes his official SmackDown Live debut.

Carrying a Bulgarian Flag alongside him, it appears that we’re about to see the classic foreign heel versus the chosen American hero. Right off the bat, Rusev voices his frustration over his return not being given the same amount of treatment as Cena’s. Venting that opportunities haven’t come his way, he states that Cena won’t receive them in his place. The two trade words from here, with the suggestion of a Flag match between the two coming into play. Both accept, but it’s Rusev who wants to name the time and location.