11 Ups & 2 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (3 Sept)

9. Bayley Blasts Back

Bayley Promo
WWE.com

This week's Raw brought an unexpected heel turn for Bayley, hinted at by a cagey backstage promo in which she was vague about her relationship with "best friend" Sasha Banks and rubbished talk that she was living in Becky Lynch's shadow, before reuniting with 'The Boss' in a chair-driven assault on the Raw Women's Champion.

Last night's SmackDown was always going to open with her explanation. It did, and it was solid enough. It was substantial. The former 'Hugger' said that the fans should have seen it coming as her plan was never about hugs or kids but being loyal, which she was to Sasha. She's trying to put SmackDown on the map and prove herself a deserving champion, and would do so by besting the most selfish person on the roster, Charlotte Flair, at Clash of Champions.

The few uncertain moments in Bayley's delivery prevent it from finishing higher, as her initial response to the crowd's loud, mixed reaction wasn't exactly strong early on. She wasn't rattled, but Bayley's words weren't always 100% convincing either. Nonetheless, a solid explanation and a solid opening segment, though we'll touch on what want down after her diatribe later in the column.

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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.