4 Ups & 4 Downs From WWE SmackDown (7 Aug - Results & Review)

1. Sami Zayn Tells KO Straight

Backstage, Sami Zayn wanted an apology from Nick Aldis for cramming Gunther and the returning Kevin Owens into his match with Finn Bálor at SummerSlam. Speaking of Finn, where was he? Shouldn't he have been every bit as miffed as Sami? Apparently not. Anyway, Kev showed up, and he had a bit of back and forth bickering with Zayn.

Then, Sami closed by saying KO shouldn’t expect him to give up on what he wants because it’s also what Owens wants. The character work here is believable and just fantastic, but everyone’s used to that from Zayn by now. KO: “Ive been back 6 days. 6 days!”. He said that right before walking off camera once Sami had done the same and left in a huff.

It feels insane to say this, because of course they're going to, but another match between these longtime friends/enemies isn't out of the question. If handled carefully, it could actually be something worth doing at WrestleMania 43 next year. If WWE's writing team can't wait that long, they could always force Aldis to make things right with Sami and book Zayn vs. Owens for the number one contenders spot. Options, options, options.

Both Sami vs. Aldis and KO were teased here, and that's something else worth discussing. Nick stepped up to Gunther at SummerSlam, and he could be coaxed back into the ring for another stab at it if Sami isn't careful. Keep poking the bear, Zayn. Another Nick match on PLE would be great fun.

Really strong segment.

What did you think of this week's episode of WWE SmackDown? For more wrestling, check out 12 Things We Learned From Dark Side Of The Ring: The Fall Of Renegade and 13 New Directions For WWE After SummerSlam 2026!