13 Ups & 3 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (July 23)

10. Ali Writes His Own Story

Last week brought a hint that Ali will soon challenge for Shinsuke Nakamura's Intercontinental Title. There was no follow-up on yesterday's show. A minor disappointment, but at least we got another cool promo from the former 205 Live man instead, with Ali promising to "rewrite his story."

Ali referenced his pre-Elimination Chamber injury - the same one that effectively led to Kofi Kingston's incredible rise - saying that his body gave out before his heart, and he was forgotten about. He refused to let that failure dominate his narrative, though. With the pen back in his hands, Ali promised to write that he is WWE Champion, and if the pen runs out of ink, he'll use his blood.

These Ali promos are universal successes. He's entirely convincing, gets his character across well, has a unique voice, and feels like an important rising star again. The next step is getting back into the ring.

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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.