12 Ups & 6 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Jun 25)

5. Bayley & Nikki Go To Work

Bayley Nikki Cross
WWE.com

Another case of the wrestling delivering in spite of the booking, Bayley vs. Nikki Cross at least presented Alexa Bliss' Scottish buddy as a credible wrestler in SmackDown's women's division.

Cross looked strong her. She meshed well with Bayley throughout, and while the duo didn't take any big risks, they concocted a layout that made Nikki's victory come off like something of a big deal. Sure, it came via a reversed cradle, but that's the way it should be. Divisions need tiers to be credible. Bayley, the champion, was outfoxed, though Cross' only realistic avenues to victory should be cheating or some kind of roll-up, and she scored the pin with the latter.

Here's hoping that Nikki's push isn't forgotten about once her business with Alexa concludes. We've been critical of her output in the past, but it was never her fault. She's a solid performer.

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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.