3 Ups & 5 Downs From WWE SmackDown (16 Oct - Results & Review)

2. Sami’s Commentary Makes The Match

Trick Williams vs. Johnny Gargano was nothing special, but Sami Zayn’s commentary alongside Vic Joseph and Corey Graves was magic. He was pretty much a cheerleader for ‘Johnny Wrestling’, but also smartly pointed out the tape on Trick’s knee, and subtly put him over as powerful whilst still calling it “apples and oranges” on others comparing Williams to the WWE Champ.

The post-ad break work in-ring was slightly higher intensity than everything before it, as expected, but that wouldn’t have been enough to sneak this into ‘Ups’ territory without Zayn on comms. He really was on top of his game.

This match soared into 'good' territory whenever Trick and Gargano went anywhere near the broadcast booth. Normally, workers sitting in on guest commentary either have nothing to say or actually take away from a match by ranting or raving then interfering, but the opposite was true here: Williams and Johnny needed Sami.

The way Zayn continues to look over his shoulder at an increasing number of challengers is working out well. He's excellent in that kind of role, and the fact he's still able to be the glue holding SmackDown together even when he's in lower card segments/matches is a testament to his skill.

Again, as the 'Downs' suggested, it's easy to fret about just how viable Trick is as a headliner in late-2026. He hasn't progressed the way management would've wanted him to. However, working with Zayn can only help if they dispense with the gingerbread man trash.

Cut that out and Sami's seriousness will make things sing.