5 Things WWE subtly told us on SmackDown: Main event push for underrated star, Former Champion not a babyface anymore? (February 12th, 2021)

#4. Apollo Crews' character status on SmackDown

Apollo Crews played the spoilsport

Big E came out on SmackDown, seemingly ready to make an open challenge for the Intercontinental title. He specifically said "Now that I'm done with Apollo Crews", but it was none other than the former United States Champion who made his presence known.

As you may know, Big E's last title defense on SmackDown saw him pick up a win over Sami Zayn and Apollo Crews by pinning the latter. Apollo Crews once again made the challenge on SmackDown, and Big E said he wanted to face anyone but him.

They had a tense verbal back-and-forth, and Shinsuke Nakamura ultimately stepped up to the challenge.

This is getting HEATED. 😮#SmackDown @WWEBigE @WWEApollo pic.twitter.com/SBbibF1nUK

— WWE (@WWE) February 13, 2021

While it was a good match on SmackDown, Apollo Crews played the spoilsport and attacked the Champion, causing a DQ. Apollo Crews didn't seem like a heel, but a man desperate to get the gold at all cost.

.@WWEApollo refuses to let up in his pursuit of the #ICTitle!#SmackDown @WWEBigE @ShinsukeN pic.twitter.com/KaQZAWFXmN

— WWE (@WWE) February 13, 2021

What it did seem to indicate, however, is that Apollo Crews isn't a babyface either. He has lost his babyface status and is now a "tweener" as they're called. He might be Big E's primary challenger next, presumably at Elimination Chamber.