7 Ups & 3 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (May 1)

2. Samoa Joe Steals It

Samoa Joe
WWE.com

Embarrassed at the Greatest Royal Rumble, 'The D*ck-Punch King' was out for an apology last night. Shinsuke Nakamura wasn't happy with AJ Styles. Yes, their match went to a double countout, but the Japanese villain was the one left lying. He summoned the equally hacked-off WWE Champion from the back, and after throwing a few barbs Nakamura's way, Styles announced that this Sunday's rematch would be a No DQ bout. A smart move, though AJ would be wise to wear a cup this time.

A big announcement, but it was just the appetiser for the segment's biggest highlight: Samoa Joe.

As is always the case when the big man's on the microphone, Joe stole the scene. He chastised Styles for making a spectacle of himself, called him out for losing focus, and announced that when he's finished with Roman Reigns, AJ is next on his list. "Make peace with your destiny," he said, "because I'm coming for the WWE Championship."

Joe was as believable as ever, and his distraction allowed Nakamura to once again destroy Styles' baby-making potential with another well-timed nutshot. Let's hope Nakamura's heel character grows beyond low blows after Backlash, but for now, it's working.

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Andy has been with WhatCulture for six years and is currently WhatCulture's Senior Wrestling Reporter. A writer, presenter, and editor with 10+ years of experience in online media, he has been a sponge for all wrestling knowledge since playing an old Royal Rumble 1992 VHS to ruin in his childhood. Having previously worked for Bleacher Report, Andy specialises in short and long-form writing, video presenting, voiceover acting, and editing, all characterised by expert wrestling knowledge and commentary. Andy is as much a fan of 1985 Jim Crockett Promotions as he is present-day AEW and WWE - just don't make him choose between the two.