WWE SmackDown Live Results: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for July 4

AJ Styles vs Chad Gable

Result: AJ Styles wins via pinfall

Rating: 3.75 out of 5 stars

Following the John Cena and Rusev segment, the cameras shifted to the backstage area. AJ Styles and Chad Gable were present in Daniel Bryan’s office. According to the General Manager, United States Champion Kevin Owens made a case that neither man should be featured in tonight’s battle royal. Because of this, Bryan decided to book Gable and Styles to face each other. The winner of the match will participate in the battle royal, while the loser will be restricted from doing so.

After a commercial break, each man made their entrance to the ring, allowing the match to commence. Despite being known as a tag team competitor, Gable surprisingly held his own against the Phenomenal One. Making use of his amateur background, the former tag team champion tried to keep things centered on the ground. Eventually Styles was able to unleash his speed and quickness, allowing the match to go in his favor.

During the closing moments, Gable and Styles fought back and forth to try and secure one last foothold in the match. Both put their utmost into emerging victorious, however, on this night the win went to Styles thanks to the Phenomenal Forearm. With the win, Styles earned the right to compete in the battle royal later on tonight. Even though the result was never in doubt, this contest gave Gable the chance to shine in a different spotlight. His mini singles run has been fun to watch, but his place is with Jason Jordan in American Alpha.

Once Styles concluded his celebration, another backstage segment was shown featuring the Hype Bros. The duo are still disappointed about their loss last week, which came when The Usos defeated them in tag team action. Despite this setback, they hope to regain momentum by winning the battle royal here tonight.