7 Ups & 4 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Oct 23)

Downs...

4. Well, Shane's Still Alive...

Shane McMahon
WWE.com

News that Shane McMahon's return to WWE television wasn't a one-off but a permanent move that'll see him reintegrated into SmackDown storylines, provoked ripples of concern. The last thing this brand needs is a second authority figure, given how affably unobtrusive Paige has been as General Manager, and Shane, on his worst days, is one of the worst meddlers in his business.

Last night wasn't one of those worst days, but it was pure filler. The Commissioner came out, said a few kind words about Evolution, did the same for the World Cup, cut-off the crowd's "CM Punk" chants, then promised someone from SD would win said tournament and be crowned "best in the world."

... aaaaand that was it. No point, no major message: just a reminder that Shane, Evolution, and Crown Jewel exist. One for the fast-forward button.

Advertisement
Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.