6 Ups & 2 Downs From WWE SmackDown (15 Aug - Results & Review)

1. Drew McIntyre Analyses Cody Rhodes

Cody Rhodes has often been put in a rough spot as WWE Champion. He's had to build feuds against the likes of Brock Lesnar, Roman Reigns and John Cena on his own over the years, and that has led to a lot of samey promos from the 'American Nightmare'. It's a good thing he's so accomplished on the mic, and endlessly popular with fans, eh?

Drew McIntyre didn't have that luxury of leaning on babyface sensibilities. On Friday, the heel had to work for his reactions. He did so by telling a story dripping with realism and watertight logic. Amongst other things, McIntyre said he only hit a Claymore Kick on Cody through the front of the announce desk because of Rhodes own behaviour.

Explaining, Drew pointed out that Cody had shoved him into the ring post when last week’s tag main event was over, then started clearing off the announce desk with bad intentions for Drew, so he had to defend himself. “I am not the bad guy, but if you provoke me I will do very violent things”, he added. Then, McIntyre called himself "the real nightmare". That better stick, because it's class.

Overall, Drew cut a slick promo that addressed everything from his title challenge to Cody's status as WWE's poster child. On that, he also spoke about being the golden boy "5 years ago" then everyone forgetting about him. Oh yes, that’s a fab story thread to follow for this feud, and it displays McIntyre's bitterness for all to see.

Let's hope WWE gives Drew the mic before Paris again, whether Rhodes is there or not. He proved he could handle things solo.

What did you think of this week's WWE SmackDown? For more wrestling, check out What REALLY Happened To WWE's 16 Tallest Wrestlers Ever? and Every Current Champion In WWE (And Who Should Beat Them)!