Sami Zayn Celebration Promo

The opening segment saw Sami Zayn address his WWE Championship win. The crowd's reaction was described as a mix of cheers and boos, with a light "You deserve it!" chant, as fans navigated cheering for his long-awaited title win while also recalling his recent whiny heel persona. The report noted that Zayn seems to be sticking with his heel character, effectively pointing out that fans had been booing him and shouting out his "ride or die" fanbase. This reminded the author of Bret Hart's early heel tendencies in 1997, with Zayn praised for his performance.

However, a later backstage segment featuring Sami Zayn with Johnny Gargano was viewed as a miss. The report questioned Zayn engaging in "little comedy bits," particularly as the reigning champion, suggesting it felt beneath him and jarring compared to his promo confrontations with top contenders. It is speculated that Johnny Gargano may assist Sami Zayn in some way.

Tag Team Division and SummerSlam Teases

The show also featured a six-woman tag match pitting Charlotte Flair, Chelsea Green, and Tiffany Stratton against Jade Cargill, B-Fab, and Michin. While it served to progress storylines, the match was deemed to not compare favorably to recent NXT women's matches. Speculation suggests a Charlotte Flair vs. Jade Cargill match is likely for SummerSlam, with a potential follow-up match for Chelsea Green & Tiffany Stratton vs. B-Fab & Michin on the card.

Chelsea Green was highlighted as a standout performer, with questions raised about SmackDown's creative team considering a push for her, especially with her current character's growing fan support.

Confrontation Recap and AAA Title Match

A recap segment detailing the confrontation between Nick Aldis and Gunther following the WWE Championship match at Night of Champions was praised as a "Hit." The segment was noted for its realism and believable hostility between the two, with both Aldis and Gunther commended for their performances.

In the ring, Rey Fenix faced El Hijo del Vikingo for the AAA Cruiserweight Title. The match was considered a "Hit," though it was felt that it could have benefited from more time. The report indicated that these AAA Cruiserweight Title matches are effectively filling the void left by the US Championship open challenges for top-quality in-ring action on SmackDown, potentially developing into something unique for the brand.

Trick Williams Promo and Lil Yachty's Role

A promo by Trick Williams was labeled a "Miss." While Williams is acknowledged as a charismatic in-ring wrestler, issues were raised regarding his character's presentation, particularly the involvement of Lil Yachty. The report suggested that Lil Yachty's presence was becoming annoying and felt shoehorned into Trick's presentation, muddying the character's identity. The segment also saw Lil Yachty acting as a heel manager, leading to Trick Williams striking Carmelo Hayes.

Featured names

• Chelsea Green
• Tiffany Stratton
• Johnny Garagano
• Cruiserweight Title
• Nitro Cruiserweight
• Trick Williams
• Carmelo Hayes
• Jaida Parker
• Vanity Project
• Brock Lesnar
• Interview Classic
• Creative Kevin
• Roster Split
• Conversation Club
• Death Riders
• Wrestling Coast
• Cruel Summer