WWE fans are furious after SmackDown spoilers leaked online days before the show airs on Netflix, following a taped episode in London that featured the highly anticipated debut of English superstar Blake Monroe. The show was recorded early to allow talent to travel to Saudi Arabia for Saturday's Night of Champions event.
Blake Monroe Debut Sparks Controversy
Monroe, who had been hyped for months through vignettes, finally appeared on the blue brand in London, revealing her first rivalry. However, fans at home complained that the taped format ruined the surprise. X user @25_saurav wrote: 'You had a thousand chances to debut Blake the right way, and you chose a taped show. What a clown move.'
Another fan, @NN_Graps, argued: 'Another reason why it was such an odd choice to wait until a pre-taped London show is Blake now has to no-sell this and wait for Friday night to acknowledge her presence on The New A Show.'
Some Fans Defend the Decision
Despite the backlash, many supporters noted that debuting Monroe in her home country was ideal. @ThunderRail98 said: 'No, they did not waste Blake Main Roster debut because London was the perfect place for her to debut at.'
Even before the show, fan @LoEl81 predicted the debut but warned: 'It will be taped and everyone will know about it, probably even seen clips, before it even airs on Friday. Kinda ruins the surprise and moment, but I'd take it right now.'
Other Matches and Post-Show Event
The taped episode featured previously announced matches, including Paige vs. Jacy Jayne and Nathan Frazer challenging Rey Fenix. After the taping, fans at The O2 watched an untelevised match pitting Oba Femi and Seth Rollins against Bron Breakker and Austin Theory. Many then stayed for a broadcast of England's 0-0 draw with Ghana, but were reportedly more pleased with the wrestling earlier.
Monroe had hinted to Metro last month about a possible debut on the European tour, saying: 'We do have this European tour coming up, so maybe, let's see…' She also promised: 'WWE and SmackDown audiences have never seen anything like me. They've never seen a woman as versatile as me.'
