10 Ups & 7 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Feb 19)

7. Mates Being Mates

WWE are doing interesting things with The New Day at the moment.

Elimination Chamber's conclusion bred fears of a turn, as Big E side-eyed Kofi Kingston as they stood at the top of the ramp. A smart move, even if it proves to be a red herring, as WWE have now sown seeds of doubt in the audience's minds, keeping the storyline wide open in the process.

There was no such tension last night, particularly during the trio's backstage interview with Kayla Braxton, which was no more than a bunch of great friends backing each other up. Xavier Woods put Kingston's work ethic over, E cracked a few jokes, and Kofi reiterated that his loyal partners had pushed for him to represent their group at the pay-per-view. He appreciates it, and vowed to keep his other friend ("Mo Mentum") going.

A fun show of togetherness ahead of Kinston's latest grand opportunity, light on the things that anger those who can't stand The New Day's act. It worked.

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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.