Gunther Surprises Fans with NXT Star Axiom on WWE SmackDown in Barcelona

BARCELONA, Spain — Gunther faced a surprising challenge from NXT Tag Team Champion Axiom during Friday’s episode of WWE SmackDown, which was held in the Catalan capital as part of the WWE’s European tour. The event aired internationally at 3 PM ET, while U.S. viewers could catch it at its regular slot of 8 PM ET on USA Network.

After making his entrance in full ring gear, Gunther cut a promo criticizing Jey Uso, his upcoming WrestleMania opponent. He referenced the rivalry between Barcelona and Madrid, expressing a desire to be in Madrid instead. In a nod to the crowd, Gunther drew comparisons between Uso and Axiom, the latter known previously as A-Kid, which prompted cheers from the Spanish audience who recognized the reference.

Gunther then invited Axiom into the ring for a match, which the “Spanish Sensation” gladly accepted, leading to an intense and physical confrontation. Axiom used his speed and smaller frame to counter Gunther’s power, showcasing impressive resilience.

Gunther unleashed several stiff chops and power moves but found himself momentarily in trouble with Axiom nearly securing victory after a Golden Ratio. Despite these close calls, Gunther executed a powerbomb and matched Axiom’s grit as both competitors fought hard for dominance.

As the match neared its conclusion, Gunther decisively landed another powerbomb, leading to a three-count pinfall victory. After the match, Gunther continued to assert his dominance by locking Axiom in a sleeper hold, despite pleas from referees and officials for him to relent.

The SmackDown card also featured WWE United States Champion LA Knight celebrating his title win earlier in the night while highlighting the significance of the event, marking the first SmackDown ever hosted in Barcelona. Knight, asserting he represents the United States champion worldwide, faced challenger Jimmy Uso, who is eager to carve a successful path to WrestleMania.

Knight’s celebration was soon interrupted by Uso, who expressed desperation for a title bout against him at WrestleMania. The segment ushered in mayhem when Solo Sikoa, supported by Tama Tonga and Jacob Fatu, joined the fray, igniting tension between key players leading into WrestleMania.

In a series of thrilling match-ups, Braun Strowman made a noteworthy appearance, teaming with Jimmy Uso and LA Knight, facing off against Sikoa, Tonga, and Fatu, showcasing the ongoing rivalries as the wrestlers awaited their ultimate showdowns at WrestleMania.

The evening included several matches, building anticipation for upcoming contests. Notable encounters included Charlotte Flair meeting B-Fab, and Drew McIntyre confronting Damian Priest, as tensions rose in WWE’s landscape.

As the matches unfolded, fans embraced the excitement and energy in the arena, marking SmackDown’s significant installment in Barcelona as WWE continues its European tour, setting the stage for more confrontations in the lead-up to WrestleMania.