6 Ups & 3 Downs From WWE SmackDown (29 May - Results & Review)

3. Like A Real Human Conversation

Sami Zayn and Cody Rhodes worked a brilliant backstage chat about last week.

Zayn criticised Cody for requesting their match and sticking him with a Cross Rhodes when he was fighting off Gunther, then Cody fired back saying Sami watched him get choked out by the ‘Ring General’. Both sides have valid points, which is why this works. Zayn, in particular, is really nailing these character development moments. Calling himself “the last real good guy” could catch on in a delusional heel way.

It's on par with what he was doing years ago as a conspiracy theorist, but definitely less comedic. He's still over the top, but only when frustration boils over. Meanwhile, former friends like Cody are real sick of listening to Sami bitch and complain all the time when things don't go his way. He keeps starting aggro then trying to blame others for wanting to fight him. To that point, Rhodes is getting to flex a few heel muscles along the way.

It's working for both.

Most WWE promos sound rehearsed or like they're happening between call centre employees and customers. They're flimsy, full of empty platitudes, and lack a lot of realistic human emotion. Enter Zayn and Rhodes. They, like the currently injured Kevin Owens, come across like actual human beings. Chats flow naturally, which is great to see.

Last week's main event was a preview for things to come. Heel Zayn vs. Cody will be blockbuster on PLE if it's handled correctly from now until that moment. Sami is only going to get hotter as a villain.