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

2. Of Course Ali Vs. Andrade Was Good

Andrade Ali
WWE.com

Andrade vs. Ali might be the most predictable Up in this week's column, but the match is here on merit. Two of the most athletic and exciting wrestlers on the brand collided in an all-action midcard affair that scratched the workrate itch, told a decent little story, and delivered a finish that kept things open for a possible rematch.

The former 'Cien' refused to take Ali seriously last night. He constantly mocked and taunted the ex-205 Live man throughout, with him and Zelina Vega hitting the tranquilo pose early on. This continued, and the braggadocio looked justified as Andrade ground his high-flying opponent down, controlling him for long periods as Ali struggled to fight back.

The heat escalated as Andrade tossed the smaller man into the technical area, and shock etched his face as the former Mustafa kicked out of his double knees in the corner. This fed directly into the finish, as Ali cradled Andrade, scored the pinfall, then made a hasty retreat.

This fortuitous victory means we're almost certainly getting round two before long. Who could complain about such a prospect after last night's showing?

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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.