We have a new Women's United States Champion as Tiffany Stratton defeated Giulia to win the title on the April 24, 2026 episode of WWE Friday Night SmackDown.
How did this go down tonight, what led to this, and what could be on the horizon? Let's break it all down!
How We Got Here & Match Details:
Stratton faced Giulia in a non-title match on the March 27th episode of SmackDown, losing that match. Somehow, she was still granted an opportunity to get a shot at the title after that loss when she was booked against Jordynne Grace on last week's episode. Stratton was able to win that match to earn this title opportunity, with the match not being announced until the middle of the afternoon as opposed to being promoted ahead of time. Interestingly, it was announced prior to last week's show that Stratton would face Giulia for the title on that episode before it was changed to the No. 1 contender's match. Does this mean WWE wanted to have the title change on the go-home show prior to WrestleMania 42 and changed their minds for it to be something after the fact, or are they really just that confused about their own ideas?
In any case, Stratton was able to get the victory with an Alabama Slam, followed by her Prettiest Moonsault Ever, for a straight-up clean pinfall despite some interference from Kiana James trying to help The Beautiful Madness retain.
Personal Reactions & What Happens Next?:
With James failing to help Giulia and the two of them arguing ahead of time, I assume that's the end of their partnership. Hopefully, that doesn't mean James or Giulia will be the next to be fired among all these ridiculous releases happening today.
As far as Stratton winning the title, it's interesting how confusing the booking of all this has been. That doesn't give me a ton of confidence that they really care about Stratton holding the title. It may have been more of a case of taking it off Giulia rather than giving it to Tiffany. Nevertheless, because Stratton speaks English natively, WWE is going to find it easier to write storylines for her, as they struggle to do that for Giulia. I'd assume Chelsea Green will be one of the main contenders for the title once she's cleared to compete, and could possibly be the next champion in line to win that belt a third time.
Tell us what you think about this title change by leaving a comment below! Who do you think will be the next in line to challenge for the title, or possibly even win the belt next? Keep the discussion going!
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