A slow-burning story appears to be unfolding on WWE SmackDown involving two of the company’s most recognizable stars: Charlotte Flair and Alexa Bliss. Their recent interactions have raised eyebrows and sparked speculation about potential alliances, deeper backstory reveals, and possibly even the formation of a new faction.
Charlotte Flair returned to WWE in dominant fashion, winning the 2025 Women’s Royal Rumble. But her momentum was quickly derailed after a high-profile loss to Tiffany Stratton at WrestleMania 41. Since then, Flair has struggled to connect with the audience. The most telling moment came during a recent SmackDown, when she was booed so heavily during a promo that she abruptly walked out, visibly frustrated by the crowd’s reaction.
Amid Flair’s uncertain standing, Alexa Bliss made her return to WWE on the May 9 episode of SmackDown, teaming with Zelina Vega for a tag win over Chelsea Green and Piper Niven. However, the most buzzworthy moment came backstage, where Bliss approached Flair and told her, “We need to talk.”
That conversation continued the following week. Bliss reminded Flair of a moment early in their WWE careers when Flair helped her out. Flair shrugged off the memory, claiming she didn’t recall the event. The awkward exchange was interrupted by SmackDown General Manager Nick Aldis, who introduced Giulia—making her main roster debut—as the newest member of SmackDown.
This timing was not lost on fans. With Flair seemingly on the outs with the crowd, Bliss subtly planting seeds of history, and Giulia debuting in the same segment, rumors have swirled that WWE may be building toward a new alliance or faction. Some speculate Bliss could be recruiting, perhaps building a group centered around women who feel overlooked or disrespected—one where Flair, in a rare vulnerable moment, might fit.
The storyline has the hallmarks of a slow build: personal tension, unresolved history, and new variables being introduced. It’s unclear whether Flair and Bliss are heading toward a feud or a partnership—but whatever it is, it’s giving the SmackDown women’s division a fresh layer of intrigue.
WWE SmackDown Results – May 16, 2025
Location: Greensboro Coliseum, Greensboro, North Carolina
Main Event: WWE Women’s Championship
Tiffany Stratton (c) vs. Nia Jax
Tiffany Stratton retained her WWE Women’s Championship in a hard-hitting match against Nia Jax. Despite interference from Naomi, which was stopped by Jade Cargill, Stratton capitalized on a misstep by Jax. She used a dropkick into a steel chair and followed it up with the Prettiest Moonsault Ever to secure the win.
Money in the Bank Qualifying Matches
Men’s Triple Threat Match: Solo Sikoa vs. Jimmy Uso vs. Rey Fenix
Solo Sikoa advanced to the Men’s Money in the Bank ladder match after defeating Jimmy Uso and Rey Fenix. Jacob Fatu and JC Mateo interfered on Sikoa’s behalf, helping him land a Samoan Spike on Fenix for the victory.
Women’s Triple Threat Match: Alexa Bliss vs. Chelsea Green vs. Michin
Alexa Bliss earned her spot in the Women’s Money in the Bank match. After Chelsea Green celebrated prematurely, Bliss caught her off guard and hit Sister Abigail to get the pinfall.
Other Notable Matches and Segments
JC Mateo vs. LA Knight
JC Mateo (formerly Jeff Cobb) defeated LA Knight with his signature Tour of the Islands finisher in a hard-fought match.
Aleister Black vs. Carmelo Hayes
This match ended in disqualification after The Miz interfered and attacked Black. After the match, Black retaliated, but Hayes laid him out, standing tall to close the segment.
Backstage Segment: Alexa Bliss and Charlotte Flair
Alexa Bliss reminded Charlotte Flair of her past support, but Flair claimed she didn’t remember. Their conversation was interrupted by SmackDown GM Nick Aldis, who introduced Giulia as the newest addition to the SmackDown roster.
