Days before the final pit stop heading into Summerslam, the Battleground PPV, SmackDown Live came to us from the Legacy Arena in Birmingham, Alabama. Unfortunately, while it needed to be an absolutely mind blowing show, it was just another ‘fine but not really noteworthy’ effort.
We can safely say that it did not make us want to tune in and watch Battleground, and instead made us wonder what’s in store for us at Summerslam; when these feuds run their course. We have solid reasoning behind our assertions and we bring them to you in our 'Best and Worst' section.
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#1 Worst: Weak debut
Those who have followed Mike Kanellis on the independent circuit know that he is a good hand, and can most certainly have competitive matches. He needed to put on a compelling show in his first ever WWE match, after making his name on the indies for fifteen years.
While he did win his match against an opponent of Sami Zayn’s talent and calibre, he did so in a rather cowardly fashion indeed. Yes, we understand that his gimmick is that of someone who hides behind his wife, but a stronger showing would have made a better impact, at least, in our opinion.
We don’t see Kanellis as someone who is little more than enhancement talent, if he is continued to be booked in this fashion on the blue brand.
#1 Best: Big win for Becky Lynch
Defeating Charlotte Flair clean in the middle of the ring is no joke. Charlotte is probably the best product of the Women’s Revolution, and while many describe Bayley as the underdog, it is actually Becky, who despite her talent has not really achieved her potential.
This week, her best friend put her over clean in the middle of the ring, after possibly the best match in the whole episode. This win should work wonders for Becky Lynch and catapult her to where she deserves to be, considering she’s the most over babyface in the brand, and maybe the whole women's division.
#2 Worst: Same old storyline
Patriotism is an angle that has always got a reaction, and that’s why we understand why WWE does it. However, the Cena vs. Rusev program is just not cutting it, honestly. It feels too hokey and dated in the era of Netflix shows and PlayStation.
It's amazing how only last year, we were praising SmackDown Live for thinking out of the box, and this year, they've gone back to relying on old tropes. A flag match just sucks out our excitement because of its very nature and Rusev certainly deserves better than to be playing a classic, old-school heel in the modern era.
#2 Best: Humour at its finest
Fandango and Tyler Breeze have become the best part of our week, every single week. Last week, they were cowboys. This week they were Mulder and Scully. The Fashion X-Files segment was a riot, with a cameo by Aiden English, and it must be seen to be believed.
We love the little nod to ‘The Godfather’ in the skit, as well as the hilarious posters upon the clipboard behind them. These comic segments allows the team to be seen on TV, even when they do not have a program. Who could they be facing at Battleground? We really have no clue.
#3 Worst: Visibility
The Punjabi Prison certainly is a most impressive sight. However, as grand as it looks from the outside, the happenings inside are difficult to follow because of the very nature of the structure. While we've never seen the structure in real life, we've read enough criticism of the same on the internet, to know that it’s a very real problem.
It may be very difficult to get a live audience to react to the match if they can’t see what is happening! Also, was it a good idea to give away the most compelling sight of the show in the very beginning instead of saving it for later and building the show around the segment? After the hot start, the show somehow seemed to lack in momentum.
#3 Best: Sowing the seeds of future conflict
Styles and Nakamura could have a feud that rivals that of Okada and Omega if they are given half a chance. We wonder who turns and also, when does he turn, for the fight to actually transpire at a later date?
We were glad to see that Nakamura wants a title shot, despite the fact that Styles is his friend. This is a real dynamic and we love it.
#4 Best/Worst: Chad Gable’s situation
We were glad that Chad Gable addressed the Jason Jordan situation on SmackDown. However, the interview proved that there is possibly no direction for Gable, at this point on SmackDown Live. Gable is an incredible talent, and his skills need to be highlighted. Let’s hope WWE knows what they are doing with this explosive, charismatic and dynamic talent.
So long folks. This was our weekly SmackDown Live 'best and worst’ countdown. Until next time, enjoy the power of love.
