12 Ups & 4 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Aug 6)
3. Shane's Last Stand
A big episode of the Kevin Owens Show saw the host invite his SummerSlam opponent, Shane McMahon, to the ring.
Cutting 'The Best in the World's' ostentatious introduction off, he asked why McMahon wasn't putting his own WWE career in the line after KO, himself, promised to quit if he lost. He said he wants Shane to "do what's best for business" by matching the stipulation. McMahon, of course, refused. Rightly pointing out that KO had made that stipulation himself, Shane surprised Owens, who clapped back by saying that he thought the former SmackDown Commissioner had balls, but had just proved he has none.
A preview of Sunday's bout followed, with the rivals clearing the ring of props so they could brawl. In came Elias. KO fought the duo off until the numbers game became too overwhelming and he was struck down inside the ring and out, concluding with Shane toppling the announce table on his body, then finishing him off by dropkicking a chair into his face.
This was a strong go-home segment for the storyline. It felt very much like Shane's last stand, with McMahon rumoured to be taking a break from television after SummerSlam, so here's hoping the writers give the saga the conclusion it needs on Sunday.