WWE SmackDown 17 October Results: Cody Rhodes Sends Strong Message to Drew McIntyre; Ilja Dragunov Defeats Sami Zayn

The latest episode of WWE SmackDown aired live from the SAP Center in San Jose, California, delivering high-octane action, emotional rivalries, and dramatic twists that kept the WWE Universe on its feet. From Cody Rhodes’ heated message to Drew McIntyre to Ilja Dragunov’s impressive win over Sami Zayn, the night was full of power-packed performances and storyline progression on the road to Crown Jewel 2025.


Nick Aldis Opens the Show With a Major Announcement

SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis kicked off the night by announcing a blockbuster main event: Drew McIntyre vs Jacob Fatu. The crowd buzzed with excitement at the possibility of seeing two of the most dominant stars clash.

However, as the night unfolded, this bout would take an unexpected turn that left fans both stunned and thrilled.


Cody Rhodes Addresses the WWE Universe

After the opening announcement, the Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes made his way to the ring to a thunderous ovation. The “American Nightmare” grabbed the microphone and spoke passionately about his recent victory over Seth Rollins, reflecting on the physical and emotional intensity of their rivalry.

Rhodes then turned his attention to Drew McIntyre, who has been making his ambitions for the Undisputed Championship clear in recent weeks. He reminded the WWE Universe that he respects McIntyre’s power and determination but warned him not to mistake kindness for weakness.

“I’ve fought too hard to get here. If Drew thinks he can take this title by intimidation, he’s got another thing coming,” Rhodes declared, raising the championship belt high above his head.

The promo ended with Rhodes teasing that he had “unfinished business” that would be settled later in the night — a hint at the chaos that was yet to come.


Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair Defend Their Titles

The WWE Women’s Tag Team Champions, Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair, faced tough competition from Sol Ruca and Zaria. The challengers entered with fire in their eyes, eager to dethrone the champions, and their teamwork was sharp from the opening bell.

Ruca’s athleticism and Zaria’s technical prowess tested the champions’ chemistry early on. Bliss struggled to keep up with Ruca’s speed, while Flair’s aggression was countered by Zaria’s submissions.

Midway through the match, a ringside distraction from Blake Monroe shifted the momentum. Ruca, distracted by Monroe’s taunting, turned away at the wrong moment, allowing Bliss to connect with a Twisted Bliss. Flair quickly followed up with a Natural Selection, sealing the victory.

Winners: Alexa Bliss & Charlotte Flair retain the WWE Women’s Tag Team Championship.

After the match, Bliss and Flair celebrated their win but kept a wary eye on the ramp, knowing new challengers are always waiting in the wings. Rumors suggest that Damage CTRL could be next in line for a title shot.


Sami Zayn vs Ilja Dragunov: A Hard-Hitting Classic

Originally, Sami Zayn was scheduled to face Carmelo Hayes, but Hayes was attacked backstage earlier in the night — later revealed to be by The Miz. As a result, GM Nick Aldis replaced Hayes with Ilja Dragunov, turning the match into a dream clash for wrestling purists.

Zayn and Dragunov wasted no time, engaging in a brutal yet technical contest. The bout was filled with stiff strikes, counters, and dramatic near-falls that had fans chanting “This is awesome!”

Zayn nearly secured victory with a Blue Thunder Bomb, but Dragunov showed incredible resilience. As the match reached its peak, Solo Sikoa appeared at ringside, distracting Zayn momentarily. That split second was all Dragunov needed — he capitalized with a Torpedo Moscow, pinning Zayn for the three-count.

Winner: Ilja Dragunov defeats Sami Zayn.

After the bell, Dragunov extended his hand as a show of respect, but Zayn, visibly frustrated, walked away shaking his head. The win further boosts Dragunov’s standing in the SmackDown locker room, hinting at a possible title opportunity in the near future.


Motor City Machine Guns vs Los Garza: Tag Team Explosion

Next up was an electrifying tag team bout between The Motor City Machine Guns (Alex Shelley & Chris Sabin) and Los Garza (Angel & Berto). The match was a masterclass in speed, synchronization, and showmanship.

Shelley and Sabin’s chemistry was undeniable, and their crisp double-team moves reminded fans why they’re considered one of the best tag teams in modern wrestling. Los Garza fought valiantly, showcasing their athleticism with several near-falls and high-risk maneuvers.

The climax came when Sabin countered a springboard attack from Angel with a superkick, setting up Shelley to deliver the Skull and Bones double-team finisher.

Winners: Motor City Machine Guns.

After their victory, the Guns made a subtle gesture toward the TitanTron, signaling their intent to chase the WWE Tag Team Championships. A showdown with The Street Profits or DIY could be next on the cards.


Drew McIntyre vs Cody Rhodes: The Night’s Shocking Twist

The night’s main event was initially announced as Drew McIntyre vs Jacob Fatu, but just before the match, the lights dimmed and the entrance music of Jacob Fatu played. To everyone’s surprise, it was Cody Rhodes who emerged wearing Fatu’s gear — a psychological play that caught McIntyre completely off guard.

The match quickly escalated into a physical war. Both men exchanged heavy blows, with McIntyre using his power and Rhodes relying on agility and ring intelligence. The two traded finishers, counters, and mind games throughout.

At one point, McIntyre taunted Rhodes, shouting, “You’re not ready for this fight!” That triggered Rhodes, who snapped and smashed McIntyre across the head with his Undisputed Championship belt, drawing a disqualification.

Winner (by DQ): Drew McIntyre.

After the match, Rhodes refused to stop. He dragged McIntyre to the announce table and attempted to hit his Cross Rhodes through it. Before he could execute the move, WWE officials and referees rushed out to intervene, pulling the enraged champion away.

Rhodes grabbed a microphone once again and shouted:

“You want a fight, Drew? You’ve got it — at Crown Jewel!”

This outburst all but confirmed a Rhodes vs McIntyre Undisputed Championship match at Crown Jewel 2025, setting the stage for one of the biggest clashes of the year.


Backstage Segments and Highlights

Several backstage moments added depth to the show’s storytelling:

  • Paul Heyman was spotted in deep discussion with Solo Sikoa, hinting at new developments in the Bloodline saga.
  • Bayley confronted Charlotte Flair, accusing her of using Alexa Bliss as a shield — possibly teasing a feud.
  • LA Knight cut a fiery promo, calling out Grayson Waller for his arrogance and promising to “shut his mouth once and for all.”

Each of these segments built intrigue for upcoming episodes and solidified SmackDown’s reputation for layered storytelling.


Overall SmackDown Review

The October 17, 2025, episode of WWE SmackDown was one of the most dynamic shows in recent weeks. From Cody Rhodes’ emotional promo and shocking main event to Ilja Dragunov’s victory and the tag team brilliance of the Motor City Machine Guns, the episode offered something for every fan.

The balance between in-ring action, storyline advancement, and character development was spot on. As the road to Crown Jewel 2025 continues, the rivalries on SmackDown are heating up faster than ever.


What’s Next on WWE SmackDown?

Here’s what fans can expect in the coming weeks:

  • Cody Rhodes vs Drew McIntyre official contract signing for Crown Jewel.
  • Sami Zayn possibly entering a feud with Solo Sikoa after Friday’s interference.
  • Alexa Bliss & Charlotte Flair defending their tag titles against Damage CTRL.
  • The Motor City Machine Guns staking claim to a Tag Team Championship opportunity.

WWE is clearly setting the stage for a massive month ahead, filled with drama, athleticism, and emotional storytelling.

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