WWE SmackDown News Roundup: Shocking name wins Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, Cody Rhodes & CM Punk share the ring & more

Welcome to the Times of India WWE SmackDown News Roundup. The go-home edition of the show for WrestleMania 42 was an exciting show to witness, as it featured the annual Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal, which was won by a new WWE superstar. Furthermore, World Champions Cody Rhodes and CM Punk shared the ring before their main event matches at WrestleMania, and other major bouts took place on SmackDown this week.

Who won the Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal?

The Andre the Giant Memorial Battle Royal took place on the SmackDown before WrestleMania 42. The match featured competition from both RAW and SmackDown, who attempted to win the prestigious match in memory of WWE legend Andre the Giant. The match came down to the final three competitors: Talla Tonga, Otis, and new WWE superstar Royce Keys. Otis tried to eliminate them both, only to be tossed over the top rope. Following that, Tonga and Keys exchanged blows, and the former AEW star overpowered him with a spinebuster. He threw him over the top rope and added his name to the illustrious list of past winners to add a major accolade to his WWE career right at the beginning.

Why did Cody Rhodes and CM Punk share the ring on WWE SmackDown?

After hearing Randy Orton's scratching words earlier in the night, Cody Rhodes came out at the end of the show to address him. However, World Heavyweight Champion CM Punk made a surprise appearance to give him some advice before his match. At the same time, he wished him luck for his match against Roman Reigns, his former WrestleMania opponent. The duo celebrated in the end to close out the show.

What were the other major highlights of WWE SmackDown (April 17)?

The night started with The MFTs defeating The Wyatt Sicks in an eight-man tag team Street Fight. Tiffany Stratton beat Jordynne Grace to become the new No.1 contender for the WWE United States Championship. Damian Priest and R-Truth successfully defended the WWE Tag Team Championships against Kofi Kingston and Grayson Waller. Moreover, the show saw the final confrontation between Rhea Ripley and Jade Cargill, and Randy Orton's opening segment that set the tone for the night, which was captivating heading into WrestleMania 42 for the weekend.

Also read: WWE WrestleMania 42 Night 1 and 2 matches, main event, full predictions and more

Stay updated with the latest IPL Live Score, IPL news on Times of India. Follow the IPL Schedule, check the IPL Points Table, and track the race for the IPL Orange Cap and IPL Purple Cap.