5 Ups & 4 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Jan 30)

4. Happy Rusev Day

Rusev SmackDown
WWE.com

Having successfully defended his United States Championship against Mojo Rawley on the Royal Rumble Kickoff Show, Bobby Roode learned his next challenger last night. He was ringside as Kofi Kingston, Rusev, Zack Ryder, and Jinder Mahal contested a four-way bout to earn the right to challenge 'The Glorious One' at a later date, and while far from blow-away, the clash was was a success.

The opening stages were slow, but that's to be expected with Mahal around. Things soon improved, and after a while, the wrestlers were trading big moves and near-falls like nobody's business. It was low on shenanigans, too, with every entourage member banished form ringside early on, allowing the competitors to get the job done without distraction.

Jinder came close to victory on a number of occasions, but was foiled in the end. His Khallas was countered by Zack Ryder, who was then clobbered by Rusev, who turned his focus to Kofi Kingston. The New Day man had no choice but to tap to The Accolade, and Rusev, who was again the most popular man in the building, goes on to face Roode in what should be a fun midcard bout.

Advertisement
Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. 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.