The atmosphere was electric at the Scotiabank Arena on February 28, 2025, as fans gathered for WWE SmackDown, the final show before Elimination Chamber 2025. Tension filled the air as the event featured notable appearances, thrilling matches, and high stakes leading up to one of wrestling's most anticipated events.
Undisputed WWE Champion Cody Rhodes took center stage, preparing to address his recent meeting with Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. Following last week's intense encounter, where The Rock suggested Rhodes could join forces with him, fans were eager to hear the champion's response. "The American Nightmare will meet The Rock on Saturday to give his answer," noted CBS Sports, hinting at the significant decision Rhodes faced. His reaction would have major repercussions not only for himself but for the entire WWE roster as they head toward WrestleMania 41.
Adding to the excitement was the return of seven-time WWE Women's Champion Trish Stratus, who was set to compete for her hometown crowd. Stratus, alongside WWE Women's Champion Tiffany Stratton, prepared for their matchup against Nia Jax and Candice LeRae at Elimination Chamber. This matchup marked Stratus' continued presence within WWE, demonstrating her enduring connection to the fans.
The night also featured the WWE United States Championship Contenders Tournament, which was loaded with star-studded matchups. The first round included three explosive matches, with Braun Strowman taking on Carmelo Hayes, Solo Sikoa facing Andrade, and LA Knight battling Santos Escobar. Interestingly, LA Knight would eventually secure his spot, defeating Santos Escobar via pinfall, showcasing his growth and gaining momentum heading toward the tournament's conclusion.
Another highlight of the evening involved the backstage interactions among various superstars. Drew McIntyre confronted Cody Rhodes, expressing his skepticism about Rhodes' intentions with The Rock. He stated, "I believe Rhodes would sell his soul to Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson because he did not respond to Johnson's offer immediately." This verbal exchange added another layer of drama and tension as the superstars prepared for their confrontations during Elimination Chamber.
Meanwhile, Sami Zayn made waves by calling out Kevin Owens, heightening the anticipation for their unsanctioned match. Zayn explained his internal conflict, hinting at the volatility of their relationship and the stakes involved. Owens, entrenched at the Rogers Centre, warned Zayn about his family suffering due to his decisions, raising the personal stakes of their upcoming clash.
Before heading to the ring, Tiffany Stratton and Trish Stratus appeared wearing Maple Leaf jerseys, addressing the Canadian audience and reflecting on their upcoming match against Nia Jax and Candice LeRae. Their energy was palpable, and the segment culminated with Chelsea Green and Piper Niven interrupting, leading to spontaneous action for fans craving live excitement. Following the ensuing chaos, Stratton managed to claim victory by disqualification, but the post-match turmoil was telling: it cemented the fierce rivalry between the competitors leading to Elimination Chamber.
Throughout the event, Cody Rhodes also participated with R-Truth, who playfully suggested he should seriously contemplate The Rock’s offer. The interactions were lighthearted yet strategic, demonstrating the camaraderie and connections between wrestlers during such pivotal moments.
Looking forward to Elimination Chamber, fans expect thrilling matchups and shocking moments. The card features several marquee matches, and predictions are already circulating about who will emerge victorious. The centerpiece includes the Men's Elimination Chamber, where legends like John Cena, Drew McIntyre, Damian Priest, CM Punk, Logan Paul, and Seth Rollins will battle for the chance to challenge Rhodes for the Undisputed WWE Championship.
Similarly, the Women's Elimination Chamber match brings together formidable competitors, including Bayley, Bianca Belair, Alexa Bliss, Liv Morgan, Naomi, and Roxanne Perez, all vying for the opportunity to challenge Rhea Ripley for the WWE Women's World Championship.
On top of those matches, the unsanctioned bout between Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn promises to deliver memorable moments, with many fans believing it may end with both competitors throttling each other to the brink.
Significantly, the tag team matchup featuring Tiffany Stratton and Trish Stratus against Nia Jax and Candice LeRae is going to see Stratus return, injecting nostalgia and excitement among wrestling fans. The stakes are high as each competitor looks to prove their worth, and emotions will run wild as the ring fills with history and heart.
Elimination Chamber happening on March 1 is positioned as the final major event before WrestleMania 41, scheduled for April 19-20. With so much riding on the outcomes and storylines intensifying, wrestling enthusiasts are firmly on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting who will seize the moment and stake their claims for championship glory.