Smackdown has continued to improve, revving its engine before the confrontation with AEW begins.
Now, onto the highlights
- Lesnar’s return. This isn’t going to go over well with some fan, but he’s the only legitimate obstacle left for Kingston to face. It’s also a nice change of pace from the constant “proving myself” storylines Kingston’s been a part of. While this will sound like a broken record, the title needs to move on, and if anyone can end Kingston’s run, it’s the Beast on Smackdown Live on October 4th. If he doesn’t, Kingston will probably enter the record books as one of the longest reigning champions.
- Owens sues Shane McMahon. This is a good one just because it’s something different. Usually, the McMahons do the suing and other legal jousting. As much as we’ve begged for Shane’s TV time to end and move Owens onto other things, this shows some promise.
- Ric Flair was in the house. Given the news that Flair’s planning to sue the WWE for the rights to “The Man” moniker and WWE executives weren’t happy with him, it was a pleasant surprise. Even better considering those same reports claimed he and his daughter were at odds over the lawsuit. Of course, Vince McMahon was reportedly not at either show, so that may have had something to do with it.
- Carmella helps Charlotte Flair. While this was unexpected given Carmella’s friendship with Bayley, it does set the stage for some interesting storylines the creative team can go with. The most obvious one being Carmella will turn on Flair and join Bayley, but since that was done with Bayley, it’s doubtful. Another reason could be the draft selections were already made and they intend on keeping Flair and Lynch on separate shows, hence Flair needs a new playmate.
- Baron Corbin’s coronation. As great a match as he and Gable had on Raw, this was just as good to stoke the fires of their rivalry. After repeatedly insulting Gable’s height, Gable attacked Corbin and destroyed the throne and king’s wardrobe. The stomping in the crown was the perfect exclamation point. This should be a great feud.
- Rowan and Harper. It’s been a long time since the WWE has had a pair as destructive as these two. Cliques are one thing, but they bring back memories of the APA (Acolytes Protection Agency) and that only makes them more endearing.
Final Thoughts
Another solid installment in the Smackdown Live library, these moments have set the stage for what should be a fun run over the next couple of months.
