WWE SmackDown Review: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for Sept. 12

United States Championship Open Challenge

AJ Styles vs. Tye Dillinger

Styles def. Dillinger via Calf Crusher

Rating: 3.75/ 5

When this rematch was announced last week, I was extremely excited. Despite the fact the two had a relatively quick match on Sept. 5, you could tell that they had great chemistry together. That momentum carried over into this week. Without the looming threat of Baron Corbin at ring side, Tye is able to work a much calmer paced against the Styles. He continually works the champion’s back throughout the match to give him an early advantage.

As the match wore on, Baron Corbin eventually came down the ramp to attempt to interfere in the match. However, Styles quickly dispatched Corbin with a Phenomenal Forearm, but left himself exposed for a schoolboy roll-up. Fortunately, and predictably he kicked out.

After exchanging finisher set-up, Tye was able to land the Tye Breaker on Styles. The 3 count seemed unlikely, but a small part of me thought there was a chance. Styles did kick out and was able to regroup while the Perfect 10 laid stunned. Eventually, Styles locked in the Calf Crusher for the win.

The match psychology was really great. Tye was able to avoid Styles’ spinning pelea kick, which made his character look intelligent. He also used the ring post to get an early advantage. My nine year who was watching with me expressed that it was a “heel” move. While that may be so, it also showed that Dillinger was willing to do whatever it took to win.

After the match the two men shook hands, until Baron Corbin laid out Styles with an End of Days. Over the champ body, Corbin delivered his best promo saying he was challenging Styles next week.