WWE SmackDown Live Review: Results, Analysis, and Grades for October 18

Bryan Backstage

Daniel Bryan is on the phone with Shane McMahon talking about the Survivor Series matchups against RAW. Natalya makes her way in, and says that she wants on the women’s team. She quotes Whitney Houston in her reasoning to be on the team. She also asks if Bryan follows her cat on Instagram. Tweener Natalya confirmed!

Jack Swagger vs Baron Corbin

Result: Corbin def. Swagger by pinfall (End of Days)

Rating: 2.25 out of 5 stars

WWE’s style for booking Baron Corbin seems to be “have him compete in the same match over and over.” That’s not the best strategy, but it’s the one they’ve got. Corbin is a talented heel, and these hoss fights against Swagger could boost him.

Early on Corbin lays into Swagger with forearms on the barricade and absolutely destroys him. A massive End of Days follows, and Corbin crushes him with a quick pin.

Is the WWE finally pushing Corbin as the monster heel that they should? I like to think that this is the case. Corbin can be a major player if they push him.

Bryan, Nattie & Ambrose

Backstage Natalya is showing Bryan cat pictures. Ambrose appears in a ref shirt and says he will call tonight’s match right down the middle. Bryan tells him he can’t be referee tonight since it’s for the world title. Ambrose can be whatever else he wants instead; timekeeper, ring announcer, commentator, any of those. He says he will, but doesn’t tell Bryan which one before leaving.

The main event is next!