8 Ups & 3 Downs From Last Night's WWE SmackDown (Nov 6)

6. Lynch Conquers Cross

Becky Lynch Nikki Cross
WWE.com

After hosing the gimmick earlier, it is with a begrudging acceptance that your writer acknowledges last night's Nikki Cross contributions as a success. Manchester was into her surprise appearance, the match with Becky Lynch was solid enough, and although she lost, it didn't feel like her in-ring credibility was undermined in any way.

'The Lass Kicker' scored the victory via Dis-Arm-Her after dropping Nikki neck-first on the bottom rope. It took a shade under six minutes, but there's absolutely no shame in falling to the best wrestler on the roster (in kayfabe and real-life).

If you're into the character, Cross' arrival was almost certainly an electric turn of events. She got plenty in against Becky, too, and even though the cocky champion prevailed, this was a decent warm-up for a wrestler who probably hasn't been called-up just yet, but will be soon.

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Channel Manager
Channel Manager

Andy has been with WhatCulture for eight years and is currently WhatCulture's Wrestling Channel Manager. 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.