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

1. Rusev Is Evil Now?

Rusev Lana
WWE.com

Sigh.

While WWE pulled the trigger on the Rusev Day hype at least a year too late, it felt like the 'Super Athlete's' insane popularity was finally being acknowledged prior to Royal Rumble. Sadly, he lost his United States Championship via dumb finish that night, and SmackDown saw him go back to his old heel persona in a move that immediately makes him a lot less interesting.

There's little sense in abandoning another likeable babyface on this heel-dominated roster. SmackDown is overstocked with villains, and while Rusev's crowd reactions weren't as explosive as they were in late 2017, he was still drawing big cheers. Moreover, he was extremely entertaining in his role. Playing the good guy allowed his odd charisma to shine, and that he has already reverted to generic heel verbiage is disappointing.

Rusev Day was fun while it lasted. This heel run won't be half as entertaining.

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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.