#7 Carmella def. Asuka (SmackDown Women’s Championship)
Match: Just when Asuka was in control and looked on course to win her first main-roster title, somebody dressed as “The Empress of Tomorrow” appeared on the ring apron. That somebody, seconds later, was revealed to be James Ellsworth, Carmella’s former ally. A distracted Asuka was then kicked in the face by the champ, who picked up the 1-2-3 to retain her title.
Verdict: As a match, this was never going to be one of Asuka’s best in NXT/WWE. As a story, however, this was fantastic. James Ellsworth is back and his return was booked to perfection. The record books will state that Carmella was the first person to pin Asuka in a WWE ring!
Grade: B+
Edited by Shiven Sachdeva