WWE SmackDown Recap: Vince Russo Highlights Creative Loophole in Latest Episode

The latest episode of WWE SmackDown aired from Barcelona, Spain, featuring several explosive moments that kept fans on the edge of their seats. However, one glaring issue stood out—the apparent lack of security during a key segment, something that former WWE writer Vince Russo pointed out as a significant mistake.

This week’s edition of the blue brand showcased two intense beatdown angles, each with a major difference in execution. One of the most shocking moments came when Jacob Fatu annihilated Braun Strowman once again. As the commentary team noted, WWE seemingly didn’t have enough security personnel on hand to intervene and stop the carnage. However, during a heated brawl between Tiffany Stratton and Charlotte Flair, security arrived swiftly to separate the two competitors.

This inconsistency caught the attention of Vince Russo, who pointed it out as a creative loophole while speaking on BroDown. The former WWE writer questioned the logic behind WWE’s presentation, stating that such inconsistencies could impact storytelling credibility.

Vince Russo Critiques WWE’s Inconsistent Booking

Vince Russo, a veteran in the wrestling industry with years of experience in creative writing, dissected the episode in detail. According to Russo, WWE’s handling of security presence in different segments created an unintentional plot hole.

“On one hand, you’ve got Jacob Fatu dismantling Braun Strowman with no security in sight. Then, minutes later, security rushes out to break up Charlotte Flair and Tiffany Stratton. That’s where the inconsistency lies,” Russo explained. “If WWE wants us to believe in realism, then they need to be consistent with how they book these moments.”

Russo’s remarks underline a larger issue in WWE’s storytelling, where sometimes logic takes a backseat for the sake of dramatic effect. While wrestling is scripted entertainment, maintaining internal consistency is essential for audience engagement.

The Beatdown of Braun Strowman by Jacob Fatu

Jacob Fatu’s relentless assault on Braun Strowman was one of the most brutal segments of the night. Fatu, known for his devastating strength and aggression, once again laid waste to The Monster Among Men, leaving him in a battered state. The commentary team emphasized that there was a lack of security to intervene, making it appear as though WWE’s backstage personnel were caught off guard by the attack.

However, this same sense of urgency wasn’t applied during the Tiffany Stratton vs. Charlotte Flair confrontation. This led to questions about whether WWE intentionally wanted Fatu’s attack to feel more chaotic and unfiltered or if it was simply a case of overlooked storytelling.

Tiffany Stratton and Charlotte Flair’s Brawl: A Different Approach

The segment involving Tiffany Stratton and Charlotte Flair unfolded differently. Their confrontation escalated into an all-out brawl, but unlike Strowman’s situation, security personnel quickly arrived to separate the two superstars. The speed of their intervention made it seem as though WWE’s security force had suddenly become available, contradicting the earlier narrative of understaffing.

The contrast between these two segments was jarring, making Russo’s critique valid. If security wasn’t present to stop Fatu’s rampage, why were they able to respond so swiftly to the Stratton-Flair incident?

Fan Reactions to WWE’s Booking Decision

Wrestling fans are known for their attention to detail, and many took to social media to discuss the inconsistency. Some fans defended WWE, arguing that the lack of security in the Strowman segment was deliberate to showcase Jacob Fatu’s dominance. Others echoed Russo’s sentiments, calling it an oversight that made the show’s presentation feel less authentic.

On Twitter, one fan commented:

“So WWE didn’t have enough security to stop Fatu from attacking Strowman, but they had a whole squad to break up Stratton and Flair? Make it make sense. #SmackDown”

Another wrote:

“Jacob Fatu is a beast, but WWE gotta be consistent. Either security is there for all fights, or they aren’t. That’s Wrestling 101.”

WWE’s History of Similar Booking Inconsistencies

This isn’t the first time WWE has been called out for creative inconsistencies. Over the years, there have been numerous instances where logic gaps in storytelling have frustrated fans and analysts alike.

One classic example is how referees handle interference during matches. Sometimes, a referee will disqualify a wrestler for outside interference, while in other cases, they allow the match to continue despite blatant rule-breaking. These moments often lead to debates about WWE’s approach to maintaining in-ring continuity.

Another well-known example is the inconsistent enforcement of rules in championship matches. There have been instances where count-outs and disqualifications were strictly followed, while in other cases, referees seemingly ignored them to keep the action going.

How WWE Can Address These Issues

For WWE to maintain credibility in its storytelling, it needs to address these logical inconsistencies. Here are some ways they could improve:

1. Better Continuity in Show Production – WWE’s creative team should ensure that segments follow a consistent logic. If security is absent during one major attack, the same should apply across the board.
2. Stronger Explanations from Commentary – A simple line from commentators explaining why security wasn’t present for one segment but available for another could help bridge the gap in storytelling.
3. Avoid Over-Reliance on Convenience – Instead of making security appear only when necessary for dramatic effect, WWE should aim for a more natural flow in its segments, making scenarios feel more organic.

Final Thoughts: A Small but Noticeable Flaw

Despite this inconsistency, WWE SmackDown delivered another thrilling episode filled with high-energy action and compelling storytelling. Jacob Fatu’s attack on Braun Strowman was a highlight of the night, while the Charlotte Flair vs. Tiffany Stratton altercation added intrigue to the women’s division.

Vince Russo’s criticism sheds light on the importance of small details in wrestling storytelling. While it may seem minor in the grand scheme of things, maintaining consistency helps keep fans invested and ensures that WWE’s narratives remain believable.

As WWE continues to refine its creative direction, addressing these minor but noticeable flaws could enhance the overall viewing experience. Until then, fans will keep watching—and pointing out the details WWE might have missed.