8 WWE Booking Steps For Sami Zayn's Heel Run

4. A Moment Of Clarity

Sami Zayn
WWE.com

Dillinger takes a few weeks' off television, but returns desperate for retribution. He's still banged up, but Bryan reluctantly consents to a singles match with Sami Zayn, and the two meet on pay-per-view.

Tye fights valiantly, but he's no match for his opponent's aggression, particularly in such an injured state. He falls, and Sami's poisonous influence returns as soon as the bell rings. Out comes Kevin Owens for the first time in months. He's proud of his partner's handiwork, but still wants to see more from Zayn, who looks a little uneasy.

KO calls for a repeat of Sami's assault on Dillinger, even going so far as handing him a chair to beat the poor sap with. Zayn's struggling, though: strains of his old morality are tugging away at him, and although he teases brutalising Tye once more, he ultimately refuses. Sami throws the chair down, then turns away from Owens, marching up the ramp with his head hung low.

Owens, meanwhile, is furious. His control over his old rival appears to be waning, and he follows Zayn out of the building, berating him. Sami says nothing throughout - just hops in a taxi, pulls away from the arena, and leaves KO stewing.

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.