WWE SmackDown results, recap, grades: Riddle earns world title match against Roman Reigns

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Riddle defeated Sami Zayn in a back-and-forth match on Friday night to earn his shot at the Tribal Chief's throne.

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Riddle continues to elevate to new heights with the WWE universe firmly behind him.

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Riddle channeled a seemingly legitimate injury to his tag team partner Orton and used it as fuel to become a legitimate main event player.

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Riddle and Zayn both had something at stake on Friday night and fought tooth and nail for their individual rewards.

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Elsewhere on SmackDown, a new champion was crowned as the imposing Gunther thrashed intercontinental champion Ricochet.

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The now-former champion fought valiantly against his larger foe but was unable to overcome the power and ruthlessness.

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