6 Ups & 4 Downs From WWE SmackDown (4 Sept - Results & Review)

5. Bakusai Win Out During Debut

Quick side note: Someone (who is most definitely entitled to this opinion) said on socials that Shinsuke Nakamura and Kyoki should've squashed The Miz and Kit Wilson flat in a couple of minutes. Why? Whilst some might think Bakusai should’ve run right through a comedy team like Miz and Kit, this writer isn’t sure squashes would do Bakusai any good. They’re hard workers, not squash artists.

Giving Miz and Wilson something here was the right call, then MFTs came out for the staredown with Nakamura and Kyoki. It was a solid piece of business all over, and the most important thing is that Kyoki got the win for his squad. He also replicated a number of Shinsuke-style mannerisms. Anyone who has watched the ex-Hiromu Takahashi in Japan will know that he wasn't outright copying here.

Takahashi was always like this. It's why he's such a snug fit for Nakamura and could give the stalwart some renewed purpose on WWE's main roster. Let's be honest, that was critical for Shin. He's been treading water for far too long, and he's lacked direction as a character. Giving him someone to play off of is smart, and it's already paying dividends for Kyoki too.

Hopefully, the inevitable collision pitting Bakusai vs. Tama and Talla Tonga will rescue SmackDown's doubles division. It's been on life support since the glory days of a 6-pack TLC encounter way back at SummerSlam 2025, and it honestly hasn't recovered since The Wyatt Sicks took over and had their fill as champs.

Here's to the future.