5 Ups & 3 Downs From WWE SmackDown (4 Oct - Results & Review)

1. Ye Olde Loser Before Winner Gimmick

One of WWE's most annoying tropes over the years has been tearing someone down before they're suddenly about to experience great success. That's the way Tiffany Stratton's loss to Naomi came across. It's irritating that Triple H chooses to continue this unwanted Vince McMahon tradition.

The match wasn't bad at all technically, and the best workers can overcome losses, but man - strap a rocket to Stratton already. There are some worrying signs with her character development right now. She should be a priority, yet doesn't come across as one, and Trips seemingly wants to portray her as someone content to get bullied by Nia Jax.

There's an upside to that which will be explored shortly.

It's impossible to give the Naomi vs. Stratton match result anything other than a 'Down' though. They worked hard, but this felt like an apology win to Naomi from creative for losing the chance to challenge for the Women's Title. Again, not cool when Tiffany is Money In The Bank holder.