5 Ups & 5 Downs From WWE SmackDown (23 Jan - Results & Review)
Ups...
5. More Strong Women’s Division Work
Every 'Down' was slapped about by an 'Up' this week.
For example, it's really nice to report that Jade Cargill finally has something fun going on as Women’s Champion. Jordynne Grace was at ringside for her win over Chelsea Green. Montreal’s faithful were firmly behind Chelsea (they're not the only ones - she's one of the most endearing workers on the roster), but everyone knew she was never winning the match. It was a good watch regardless.
Green was given just enough to bring this above squash level, and the interplay between Cargill and Grace is working for both. Jade doesn't feel the need to get physical with Grace for one of two reasons. A) She's biding her time and convincing herself that Jordynne isn't a threat. B) Jade is secretly intimidated by the ex-TNA star and fancies bullying lower tier workers instead. We're about to find out which one is true.
Again, it raised an eyebrow that WWE didn't pop this on Saturday Night's Main Event, 'cause Cargill vs. Grace seemed perfect for that. It would've been a fine fifth match option for the card if management fancied it, and it's heartening that Trips is starting to realise what he has in Cargill as champ.
Tiffany Stratton's own reign fizzled out last year, so it'd be a nightmare if the same thing happened again with Jade. Lining up challengers as credible as Grace is one way to avoid that. The fact that Chelsea got to look awesome is a bonus ball in the scenario.