Gunther Collides with Hometown Hero Axiom in Barcelona: SmackDown Highlights, March 14, 2025

WWE SmackDown delivered an electrifying spectacle in Barcelona, Spain, on March 14, 2025, as thousands of passionate fans filled the Palau Sant Jordi arena. The show was headlined by a highly anticipated clash between the dominant Gunther and the city’s own masked sensation, Axiom, marking a career-defining moment for the Spanish superstar. However, the night was packed with more than just one marquee match, as SmackDown served up shocking betrayals, thrilling championship encounters, and moments that had the WWE Universe on the edge of their seats.

Axiom’s Emotional Homecoming

From the moment SmackDown kicked off, there was an undeniable buzz in the air. Barcelona’s faithful erupted in chants as their hometown hero, Axiom, stepped into the ring for a heartfelt address. The masked sensation, known for his high-flying, technical style, was clearly moved by the overwhelming support.

“I’ve wrestled all over the world, but nothing compares to standing in this ring, in my city, in front of my people,” Axiom said, his voice filled with emotion.

But his moment of gratitude was soon interrupted by the chilling presence of Gunther, the former Intercontinental Champion who has been on a mission to reassert his dominance over SmackDown. Gunther, flanked by the Imperium, sneered at Axiom, dismissing his heartfelt speech.

“Fairy tales don’t exist in this ring,” Gunther scoffed. “Tonight, you will not be the hero of Barcelona. You will be just another name on my list of victims.”

The tension in the ring was palpable as WWE officials quickly stepped in to separate the two before fists could fly. The main event was set, and the WWE Universe knew they were in for an unforgettable showdown.

The Bloodline’s Internal Chaos Continues

While Axiom’s match with Gunther had the crowd buzzing, another major storyline continued to unfold in dramatic fashion. The Bloodline’s ongoing turmoil took another shocking turn as Solo Sikoa and Tama Tonga appeared to be at odds.

Earlier in the night, Paul Heyman attempted to address the future of The Bloodline, emphasizing that Roman Reigns remained the true Head of the Table, despite his recent absence. However, Solo Sikoa had other plans. Flanked by Tonga and Hikuleo, Sikoa made it clear that he was done waiting for Reigns’ return.

“This is our time now,” Solo declared. “We’re taking over, whether you like it or not.”

Paul Heyman, visibly rattled, attempted to regain control, but it was clear that Solo was positioning himself as the new leader of the faction. The power struggle within The Bloodline is far from over, and the WWE Universe is left wondering what this means for the group’s future.

The LWO Battles The Judgment Day in a Tag Team Classic

One of the standout matches of the night featured a high-octane clash between The Latino World Order (LWO) and The Judgment Day. Rey Mysterio and Santos Escobar, representing the LWO, faced off against Finn Bálor and JD McDonagh in a hard-hitting tag team encounter.

The match was a showcase of athleticism and resilience, with both teams delivering highlight-reel moments. Mysterio’s signature 619 connected beautifully, but McDonagh broke up the pin just in time. Bálor, capitalizing on the chaos, hit a Coup de Grâce on Escobar for the win, giving The Judgment Day a much-needed victory.

After the match, tensions flared between the LWO members, as Escobar appeared frustrated with the outcome. Could this be the beginning of cracks forming within the LWO?

The Women’s Championship Picture Gets Heated

The SmackDown Women’s Championship scene took an unexpected turn as IYO SKY defended her title against Shotzi in a competitive contest. Despite Shotzi’s valiant effort, SKY’s cunning and technical prowess led her to retain her title. However, the real drama unfolded after the match.

As SKY celebrated, Bianca Belair stormed the ring, making her intentions clear. The EST of WWE wasted no time in issuing a challenge for the championship at WrestleMania. But before SKY could respond, Bayley made a shocking return, laying out both competitors with a steel chair.

Bayley, who has been out of action for months, grabbed a microphone and sent a clear message.

“This is still my division, and I’m taking back what’s mine,” she declared.

With WrestleMania fast approaching, the women’s division is more chaotic than ever, and it’s clear that the road to the grandest stage of them all will be filled with twists and turns.

The United States Championship Controversy

The United States Championship match between LA Knight and Kevin Owens ended in controversy when a surprise interference altered the course of the match. The self-proclaimed “Mega Star” LA Knight looked poised to secure victory when Austin Theory, a former champion, blindsided him with a brutal attack outside the ring.

The referee, distracted by the chaos, failed to notice Owens capitalizing on the situation, hitting a Stunner on a dazed Knight to retain the title. The WWE Universe erupted in a mixture of cheers and boos, as Owens appeared to be just as surprised as everyone else.

Backstage, Theory justified his actions, claiming he was merely “setting things right” and ensuring that Owens remained champion long enough for him to challenge for the title at WrestleMania. With tensions running high, all eyes will be on next week’s SmackDown to see how this situation unfolds.

Main Event: Axiom vs. Gunther – A Star-Making Performance

The main event between Axiom and Gunther was everything the WWE Universe hoped for and more. From the moment the bell rang, Axiom showcased his incredible agility, using his speed to evade Gunther’s devastating strikes. The Barcelona crowd was fully behind their hometown hero, chanting his name throughout the match.

Gunther, however, used his brute strength to dominate large portions of the contest, delivering punishing chops that echoed throughout the arena. Axiom, refusing to back down, countered with a breathtaking array of aerial maneuvers, hitting a spectacular springboard moonsault that nearly secured him the victory.

As the match neared its climax, Axiom had the crowd on their feet with a daring Spanish Fly off the top rope. But Gunther, ever the ring general, absorbed the impact and responded with a thunderous powerbomb, followed by a brutal lariat that sealed the win.

Despite the loss, Axiom received a standing ovation from his hometown crowd, proving that he belongs on the biggest stage. Even Gunther, known for his cold demeanor, offered a rare nod of respect before exiting the ring.

The Fallout and What’s Next for SmackDown

As SmackDown went off the air, the WWE Universe was left with more questions than answers. Will Axiom’s performance earn him a rematch against Gunther? How will The Bloodline’s internal war play out? And who will emerge as the true SmackDown Women’s Champion?

With WrestleMania on the horizon, tensions are reaching a boiling point, and SmackDown continues to deliver unpredictable, must-see television. Next week promises even more excitement as the road to the biggest event in WWE heats up.