WWE SmackDown: Results, Analysis, and Grades for September 11, 2018

Photo Source: WWE.com via Twitter

Charlotte Flair vs. Sonya Deville (w/ Mandy Rose)

Result: Charlotte Flair defeated Sonya Deville via submission

Rating: 2.75 out of 5 stars

Absolutely loved the beginning of this match, with the grappling display from both superstars. On the one hand, you’d have to think Deville would have the advantage there thanks to her mixed martial arts background. But on the other hand, Charlotte is a Flair — great wrestling is literally in her blood. Either way, I’m always excited for more mat wrestling and reversals in my pro wrestling.

It’s crazy, because on paper, knowing nothing else about the two superstars, you’d think Deville would be the stronger striker, too. She did a great job of holding her own against a multiple time women’s champion, even putting a hurting on The Queen ahead of Hell in a Cell. Deville’s reversal into the triangle was mighty impressive.

Of course, that triangle spot was great for Flair, too, since it allowed her to show off her considerable strength. I mean, deadlifting an opponent with basically one arm for a rebound powerbomb? You gotta be tough to pull that off.

I was about to say, “Gee, it’s surprising that Becky didn’t get involved in this match!” when she revealed herself to be cosplaying as Janeane Garofalo in the front row. A beatdown ahead of HIAC is probably the least surprising thing WWE could have done, but again — sometimes you don’t need to be surprised at every turn.

Story Time with Samoa Joe

Remember when I said Maryse and Miz had the promo of the year earlier in the show? I TAKE IT ALL BACK. There’s no way anyone is topping this segment from Samoa Joe at any point soon. The story itself, the artwork, the creepy fairy tale music in the background, the lighting on Joe as he read — bravo to everyone involved.