WWE SmackDown Live: Highlights, Analysis, and Grades for Oct. 3

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Renee Young Interviews Shinsuke Nakamura

We start off the night with an in-ring interview with Shinsuke Nakamura. Renee addresses the controversial statements made by Jinder Mahal over the last two weeks. The question is obvious enough, as is Nakamura’s answer; “stick and stones…” But I can’t help but feel like the WWE is unsure about how to deal with this controversy. Do they want to try to mitigate the damage, or try to capitalize on it?

Regardless, the controversy has paid dividends. Ever since the Washington Post Story broke, Jinder Mahal is getting his strongest reaction. As the Singh Brothers introduce Mahal, the camera zooms up the ramp like it normally does. Only this time, Jinder Mahal ambushes Nakamura from behind. He delivers the Khallas and stands strong over the number one contender.

Natalya & Carmella vs. Charlotte Flair & Becky Lynch

Natalya submits Charlotte Flair via Sharpshooter

Rating: 3/ 5

A few weeks ago, SmackDown Live included this same exact match. It’s a quality of the programing that has plagued it since the Super Star Shakeup. However, the circumstances surrounding this week’s match is completely different and creates a brand new, fresh dynamic.

During their original tag match, Carmella flaunted her Money in the Bank briefcase, refused to tag into the match, and nearly cashed in that night. However, after a botched cash-in attempt by Ellsworth, Carmella vowed to do things her way.

This week, the two heels work together without issue against Flair and Lynch. It’s a nice little story telling piece that rewards weekly viewers.

Shane McMahon vs Kevin Owens  Hype Video

Bobby Roode vs Mike Kanellis

Roode def. Kanellis via Glorious DDT

Rating: Squash

Firstly, it’s nice to see MIke Kanellis in action again. Having recently admitted to having a drug problem and announcing that Maria Kanellis was pregnant, I wasn’t exactly expecting to see him show up. Unfortunately, he is simply cannon fodder for Bobby Roode. Nowadays, even Aiden English is getting in more offense during squash matches than Kanellis.

After the victory, Dolph Ziggler came out ranting about entrances. He says that at Hell in a Cell, he will have the greatest entrance ever. Okay, thanks Dolph.