4 Ups & 3 Downs From WWE SmackDown (Feb 3)

2. Jey Uso’s Absence

The Bloodline Roman Reigns Jimmy Uso Solo Sikoa Paul Heyman
WWE

Roman Reigns is starting to get desperate again, and it's phenomenal to watch. The 'Tribal Chief' was alarmed immediately once it became clear that Jey Uso hadn't turned up to work following his walkout at Royal Rumble, and he quizzed Jimmy/Solo Sikoa/Paul Heyman/anyone who'd listen about Jey's whereabouts all night.

The "Right Hand Man" never showed.

That adds a new layer to the Bloodline drama, and it's welcome. Jey's absence seemed to take Roman by surprise, and WWE refused to reveal exactly where Uso was. Hell, his brother Jimmy barely even knew, but did say his sibling would be there next week for their title match vs. Braun Strowman and Ricochet.

Keeping Jey away from TV was smart. Creative definitely don't need to rush these story beats, and can chew on this all week. Also, Reigns blurting out that "it's WrestleMania season" was panicky gold yet again from someone who has mastered this character.

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Lifelong wrestling, video game, music and sports obsessive who has been writing about his passions since childhood. Jamie started writing for WhatCulture in 2013, and has contributed thousands of articles and YouTube videos since then. He cut his teeth penning published pieces for top UK and European wrestling read Fighting Spirit Magazine (FSM), and also has extensive experience working within the wrestling biz as a manager and commentator for promotions like ICW on WWE Network and WCPW/Defiant since 2010. Further, Jamie also hosted the old Ministry Of Slam podcast, and has interviewed everyone from Steve Austin and Shawn Michaels to Bret Hart and Trish Stratus.