6 Ups & 1 Down From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (June 27)

4. Lana... Crushed?

Naomi Lana
WWE.com

The build towards last night’s SmackDown focused primarily on the women’s Money In The Bank ladder match, but it wasn’t the only rematch on the lineup. As booked last week, SD Women’s Champion Naomi once again put her title on the line against Lana, and after going close to 8 minutes with ‘The Ravishing Russian’ last week, Naomi destroyed her in 68 seconds this time.

The challenger attacked Naomi during the introductions, hitting her Spinebuster finisher. Naomi kicked out, and fired back to life with a head kick, before putting Lana away with the split-legged Moonsault. Lana’s initial assault prevents it from being a pure squash, but this surprisingly brief match was perfectly executed, and benefits both parties.

Lana was put over as an overzealous rookie whose competitive MITB showing had lulled her into believe she’s better than she really is. The assault’s failure highlighted her shortcomings, and put Naomi over strong, as she endured the initial barrage, then put her opponent away with surprising efficiency. Perfect booking, as Lana clearly isn’t on the same level as the champ, and shouldn’t be portrayed as such.

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.