6 Ups & 3 Downs From WWE Payback 2023 (Results & Review)

4. Subverting Expectations For A Legit Surprise

Cody Rhodes appearing on the Grayson Waller Effect did not scan as setting the table for a major announcement involving another superstar.

But that’s exactly what unfolded during Payback, when the American Nightmare quickly turned his guest spot on the Aussie’s talk show into an opportunity to declare that he saw a wrong that needed to be righted from SmackDown and unveiled the newest member of the Raw roster, Jey Uso.

While Main Event Jey had only been gone for a few weeks after quitting, it’s a legit surprise to see him pulled completely away from the blue brand and all the Bloodline drama. He’s the first member of the faction to really make a break like this, and it should give him the chance to stand on his own two feet. It means fresh matchups for Uso and a fresh start as well.

Rhodes cashing in his favors to bring Jey to Raw is an intriguing thread if WWE want to pick it up, particularly as WrestleMania season draws near and they presumably start trying to bring Cody and Roman Reigns back together and possibly pit Jey against twin brother Jimmy Uso.

For now though, this was a pleasant surprise that could provide some interesting outcomes.