Zayn addressed the Boardwalk Hall crowd in Atlantic City, New Jersey, acknowledging fans who may have doubted him in recent years. His opening segment was interrupted by Cody Rhodes, the man Zayn defeated for the title at Night of Champions. Rhodes congratulated Zayn but quickly indicated his intent to reclaim the championship.
The situation was further complicated by the presence of Jey Uso, who also expressed his desire to bring the world title back to his family. Raw General Manager Adam Pearce, serving as interim SmackDown General Manager due to Nick Aldis' suspension, made his presence felt. Pearce booked a high-stakes match for the main event: Cody Rhodes against Jey Uso, with the winner facing Zayn for the undisputed title on next week's Raw.
Backstage, Zayn voiced his displeasure to Pearce about having to defend the SmackDown championship on the Raw brand on short notice. Pearce, however, framed it as an opportunity to unite the brands for a significant show.
The main event saw Cody Rhodes face Jey Uso in a grueling encounter. After a back-and-forth battle that saw both men kick out of each other's signature finishers, Rhodes ultimately secured the victory with a second Cross Rhodes. This win officially sets up a championship match between Rhodes and Sami Zayn on the upcoming episode of Raw.
The show also featured other championship action, with Women's United States Champion Tiffany Stratton and Women's Tag Team Champion Brie Bella reportedly in action. Additionally, Rey Fenix defended his AAA Cruiserweight Championship against a top competitor from Mexico's AAA promotion.
The booking decisions, including the immediate title eliminator and the championship match being set for Raw were met with a B+ grade, suggesting a move to quickly pivot Rhodes into new feuds and allow Zayn to embark on a different style of championship run.
Featured names
- United States
- Tiffany Stratton
- Boardwalk Hall
- Atlantic City
- The American Nightmare
- The Bloodline
- Roman Reigns
- The Tribal Chief
- Championship Title
- Cross Rhodes
Fan poll
Who would win: Cody Rhodes vs Sami Zayn at Raw?
Raw · WWE
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Fan poll
Who will face Sami Zayn for the Undisputed WWE Championship?
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