10 Ups & 4 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Jan 29)

2. Rusev Vs. R-Truth Falls Flat

Rusev R-Truth
WWE.com

Rusev's immediate United States Title challenge ended in embarrassment for 'The Bulgarian Brute,' who was rolled up by the new champion in a fraction of the time it took R-Truth to overcome Shinsuke Nakamura.

The short, sharp loss was bad, and the post-match was equally damaging. Rusev, two nights after fighting for his wife's honour against Nakamura, teamed up with 'The King Of Strong Style' to batter Truth. A sudden change of heart from a man who was trying to kick Shinsuke's head off 48 hours prior.

Truth benefits from most of this, but it doesn't make much sense for the heels. Such is WWE's disregard for the United States division in general, though. Nakamura was lucky to make television while holding the belt, and while Rusev's run was short, his predecessor's fortunes didn't bode well for his run - or Truth's, for that matter.

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.