In a heartfelt and tear-jerking SmackDown send-off for 2024, WWE proved once again that wrestling is about family—both in and out of the ring. The families of the late, great Windham Rotunda (Bray Wyatt) and Jon Huber (Luke Harper/Brodie Lee) were honored both on- and off-camera, with WWE stars doing their best to remind everyone why we really love this crazy, suplex-filled soap opera. Spoiler alert: it’s the feels.
Before the Cameras Rolled: Natalya Gets Sentimental (and Stylish)
Before the official show kicked off, Natalya was out here setting the sentimental tone and accessorizing the next generation. On her way to a match with Michin (which presumably involved some quality sharpshooter-ing), Natalya stopped to give JoJo Offerman’s daughter her trademark glasses. That’s right: Natalya wasn’t just handing over eyewear—she was handing down iconic eyewear.
Not to be outdone by her pre-match niceties, after the match Natalya doubled down on the wholesome. She celebrated with Amanda Huber, widow of Jon Huber, and their sons, Brodie Jr. and Nolan. Natalya even lifted Nolan onto the barricade like a triumphant Simba from The Lion King—minus the lion cub, plus some championship vibes.
Post-Show Shenanigans: Fireflies, Family, and Future Superstars
Once the cameras stopped rolling, it was time for WWE to go full Disney-ending-meets-action-movie. Jey Uso took a moment before his dark match against Chad Gable to hand Brodie Jr. his glasses. Side note: apparently glasses are the universal wrestling symbol of honor. Somebody tell Ray-Ban to sponsor this!
After Uso’s victory, the bad guys attacked because duh, but then Braun Strowman and Sami Zayn swooped in to save the day. That wasn’t the end, though. Strowman brought Wyatt’s son Nash into the ring, dropping the bombshell that Nash is actually his godson. Cue the fireflies as the arena lights dimmed in an emotional tribute to Bray Wyatt.
But wait—there’s more! Because why stop at one heartfelt moment when you can triple-down? Strowman invited Lee’s sons into the ring and declared them the next generation of The Wyatt Family. Everyone then Yeeted (yes, Yeeted™) their way into the hearts of the crowd, sending fans home with their faces smiling and their souls sobbing.
Takeaway
This wasn’t just a wrestling show—it was a love letter to family, legacy, and the indomitable spirit of two men who left an indelible mark on this world. From Natalya’s glasses to Strowman’s firefly moment, WWE made it clear: the bonds forged in wrestling are forever.