: In a rematch of the final two from the 2023 Royal Rumble, Ripley won via submission with an inverted cloverleaf. Critics found the match "enjoyable" and well-worked.
: Dominik won following interference from Rhea Ripley . The post-match segment, where Dominik tore up a Rey Mysterio mask gifted to Escobar , was a standout for generating "great heat". : In a rematch of the final two
: A brawl involving Drew McIntyre , Sheamus , LA Knight , The New Day , and Karrion Kross broke out while they argued over who deserved to face Gunther at WrestleMania. The post-match segment, where Dominik tore up a
: A intense promo exchange where Reigns used Rhodes' father, Dusty Rhodes , to get under Cody's skin. Reviewers from WrestleRant noted their "terrific chemistry". Reviewers from WrestleRant noted their "terrific chemistry"
Reviewers from Cageside Seats and WrestleRant generally rated the show highly, citing its high energy and effective WrestleMania builds. While some segments, such as the Lashley/ Wyatt interaction and the Baszler /Nox "squash," were criticized as "lame" or "disappointing," the main event and opening segment were considered top-tier television. Friday Night SmackDown Review - WrestleRant
: Lashley called out Bray Wyatt but was instead attacked by Uncle Howdy, whom he quickly overpowered before Howdy disappeared. Overall Reception
The March 3, 2023, episode of was highly regarded for its high-stakes storytelling and significant build toward WrestleMania 39. The show's central highlight was the first-ever face-to-face confrontation between Roman Reigns and Cody Rhodes , which received strong praise for its emotional depth and mic work. Match Results & Highlights The episode featured several pivotal matchups and segments: