WWE SmackDown Live: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for Sept. 26

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Sept. 26 is Now Known as Rusev Day

After beating Randy Orton in 9 seconds last week on SmackDown, the once distraught superstar has now become the pride of Bulgaria. Ever time Rusev comes on TV, I fantasy book how they can turn him face and insert him into the WWE Championship picture.

Aiden English kicked off the celebration by singing Bulgaria’s national anthem as Rusev made his way to the ring. He was given the key to the city by the Mayor of his home town and September 26 is now known as Rusev day. Aiden English prepared a victory speech song for the Bulgarian Brute.   But as you might expect, while English sang his song, Randy Orton hit an RKO from outta nowhere.

Like the class act he is, Rusev escorted the mayor out of the ring before being met with an RKO for his troubles.

The crowd didn’t seem to know how to react during the segment. I think that’s because Rusev is so well liked that people don’t want to boo him. But, boy do they like booing English.

After we come back from commercial, Randy Orton asks Renee Young to tell Rusev to meet him at Hell in a Cell.

Sami Zayn and Daniel Bryan Backstage

Backstage, Daniel Bryan informs Sami Zayn that Shane McMahon is on his way to the area. Sami makes Daniel promise to stop Shane from interfering in their match tonight because “Shane might have Kevin locked in a Hell in a Cell, but tonight is all I have.”

The segment hit me right in the feels. Many thought that when Sami Zayn went to the blue brand they would witness a resurrection of his career. Unfortunately, that hasn’t been the case. He’s been booked into pointless feuds with Mike Kanellis and Aiden English, and  he’s has been left off PPVs or relegated to preshows.