6 Ups & 2 Downs From WWE SmackDown (June 19)
2. AJ Styles' Humiliation Of Daniel Bryan
Speaking of treasures...
...AJ f'n Styles.
The new Intercontinental Champ has become a master of setting himself up to fail. He understands how to drench himself in heat before allowing babyfaces to look strong, and that willingness to look like a fool is what separates him from the pack. This week, AJ was on top form.
Styles demanded that Bryan strap the IC belt around his waist (which he did, 'cause ol' D-Bry is one hell of a good egg) and tried to humiliate him further before Matt Riddle interrupted. Then, Daniel got to laugh at AJ's expense when Riddle cut him down. That's simple, effective booking 101.
Hopefully, that near-40 minute stunner on last week's SmackDown isn't the last time fans will see AJ and Bryan go at in WWE. They've got more to give, but using Styles' win over Dan to introduce a new star and push things along was smart and fittingly stylish.