WWE Friday Night SmackDown was buzzing with excitement as two matches were set for Clash at the Castle 2024, notably an ”I Quit Match” between Cody Rhodes and AJ Styles, and a Triple Threat Tag Team Match for the Women’s Tag Team Championship. However, the real drama unfolded after the show ended, with Andrade defeating Tommaso Ciampa to earn a title shot against Ricochet at WWE Speed, a show taped that night.
Andrade’s victory at WWE Speed raised eyebrows and drew criticism from fans concerned about his future trajectory. There are crucial considerations Triple H must keep in mind to ensure Andrade’s success post-title change. Firstly, Andrade needs to maintain visibility on SmackDown alongside WWE Speed to sustain his momentum.
WWE Speed, a unique concept with a single match and occasional promos, airs on Wednesdays, with major title bouts on Fridays. Fans worry that Andrade might fade from SmackDown, though history shows champions like Ricochet staying active on their respective brands, underscoring the importance of Andrade’s continued presence on SmackDown.
Andrade and Dominik Mysterio (Via WWE/Twitter)
Moreover, Andrade must not be a mere spectator on SmackDown; engaging storylines are vital for his character development. Triple H’s emphasis on intricate storytelling, evident in various successful feuds, should extend to Andrade. Involving him in charming narratives, like the ongoing Apollo Crews-Legado del Fantasma saga, will be pivotal for his WWE journey.
Furthermore, Andrade’s booking as Speed Champion demands strategic handling. While WWE Speed features rapid title changes, Andrade should enjoy a prolonged reign to enhance both his stature and the championship’s prestige. Ricochet’s brief tenure underscores the need for Andrade to have a more substantial and dominant reign, showcasing his prowess and solidifying his position.
Lastly, Triple H must resist the temptation to integrate Andrade into Legado del Fantasma. Despite the faction’s allure and persistent recruitment efforts, Andrade’s individual spotlight as Speed Champion on SmackDown should not be compromised. Standing alone, Andrade can carve his path to success, capitalizing on his championship status and regular SmackDown appearances.
Andrade’s victory at WWE Speed opens a new chapter in his career, marked by challenges and opportunities that could shape his future in WWE. With strategic planning and creative storytelling, Triple H can steer Andrade towards sustained success and prominence in the company’s evolving terrain.
