Braun Strowman returns to TV, joins WWE SmackDown roster
Braun Strowman is back.
The former Universal Champion was the surprise opponent for Carmelo Hayes on SmackDown, who just minutes prior had dismissed his mystery opponent as light work. Strowman ended up winning the match in roughly 90 seconds. It was mentioned during the short bout that Strowman was the newest member of the SmackDown roster as part of the transfer window taking place prior to WWE Raw’s Netflix premiere on January 6.
Strowman had been out of action with a torn groin since the Last Monster Standing match that took place on the September 30 edition of SmackDown. He returned to the ring last month, teaming with Dragon Lee and Rey Mysterio in a dark match to defeat Finn Balor, Carlito, and JD McDonagh of the Judgment Day.
On last week’s SmackDown, it was announced that all three brands would be subject to trades via a transfer window, with Raw stars seen talking to the GM of SmackDown and vice versa. Strowman’s move to SmackDown marked the first official brand switch.