6 Ups & 2 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Jan 16)

Ups...

6. Function Over Form

The primary function of a weekly television match isn't to pop a high star rating, but to further a narrative. Sometimes we lose sight of this. As long as the action is technically sound, generates heat, and achieves its storytelling function, it should be considered a success.

That's why this relatively innocuous clash between two of SmackDown's most ordinary wrestlers is an 'Up.' Bobby Roode vs. Mojo Rawley was fine. It's not something you'll ever return to, but they worked an effective back-and-forth format that allowed both to shine, with Mojo once again coming off well as an aggressive heel.

'The Glorious One' picked up the victory in just over 13 minutes, which was the right choice. He was the biggest star in the tournament, and a dead lock to make it to the finals, though it's somewhat surprising that Rawley wasn't protected in defeat. Regardless, it'll be interesting to see how the former Hype Bro handles this adversity, and we won't be complaining if he channels this frustration into one final, feud-ending bout with Zack Ryder.