WWE’s last-minute shakeup to Friday Night SmackDown just got an explanation.
Earlier today, WWE announced that the originally advertised Giulia vs. IYO SKY match for the February 20 episode of SmackDown had been scrapped. In its place, Rhea Ripley will now face Giulia in a singles bout. The company broke the news on social media just hours before the show went live:
“BREAKING NEWS: @RheaRipley_WWE will replace @IyoSkyWWE and face @giulia0221g on #SmackDown tonight, 8/7c on @SYFY!”
WWE did not initially provide a reason for pulling the SKY vs. Giulia match, leaving fans speculating about possible injuries or creative changes.
Now, Cory Hays of BodySlam.net has provided…