10 Ups & 5 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (May 21)

4. Rehabilitated

Bayley SmackDown Women's Champion
WWE.com

Bayley as SmackDown Women's Champion is a very good thing indeed, and what went down at Money In The Bank proves that when they want to, WWE can rehabilitate almost any broken character within a single show.

'The Hugger' cut a solid little promo with Kayla Braxton last night. She called Sunday "brutal," but said she'd do it all again, claiming to have created her own opportunity to make it impossible for anyone to ever doubt her again. Now, finally, she has moved past the hugs, and she wants each of her challengers to bring their best when they tangle.

Pre-Money In The Bank, there was a pressing need to elevate new women to Becky Lynch and Charlotte Flair's level, particularly with Ronda Rousey absent. Last night confirmed that they have successfully accomplished this with Bayley. She came off assured and confident in her promo, and felt like a big deal as she strode to the ring. On top of this, WWE let her score the decisive pinfall rather than 'The Man,' cementing a big night for one of the company's most valuable babyface commodities.

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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.