WWE: Sami Zayn’s PPV return reminds viewers why he was missed

Sami Zayn had a triumphant return at WWE Clash of Champions and the WWE has sorely missed everything about him.

WWE Clash of Champions was bookended by two very important matches. In the main event, Roman Reigns was established as the biggest heel not only on SmackDown, but in the WWE entirely. However, Sami Zayn’s victory in the opener reminded fans just how much he has been missed as a part of weekly WWE content. It is great to see Zayn back on television and this match set the stage for what should be a very enjoyable IC title run.

Zayn, AJ Styles and Jeff Hardy kicked off a PPV that did not have a lot of excitement heading into Sunday. But for nearly 30 minutes these three performers reminded everyone just how great their in-ring work is at this level. Zayn, Hardy and Styles told a story that elevated the Intercontinental championship at a time where it seems like WWE Creative is working to diminish nearly everything not named Drew McIntyre or Roman Reigns. Each man had their moments, but it was Zayn who stole the show in the end.

Zayn was one of the first individuals to elect to sit on when the COVID-19 global pandemic halted the professional wrestling industry. He appeared at WrestleMania 36 where he won the Intercontinental title, but that was a short-lived victory before things went left. In May he was stripped of the title after WWE informed employees that no one would be punished if they choose to not work over health concerns due to the pandemic, as reported by Wrestling Inc from Wrestling Observer Newsletter. Zayn was still stripped and remained off television until returning in August. Now he is back, and we are poised for what should be an entertaining time with Zayn holding the “worker’s title.”

And that is exactly what Zayn is. He is one of the best workers that the WWE has to offer right now. While he has been misused since being a part of the main roster, do not forget that he has some of the best story telling abilities on the roster. Not only that, but his wrestling skills allow him to put on a match with anyone that is standing across from him. He is in the perfect position on the blue brand to give fans exactly what they want to see of him, antics, and action in the ring.

Hopefully, Zayn can flourish creatively while on SmackDown. We saw some creative moments during the ladder match, such as the entire handcuff spot and other examples early in the contest. His ability to deliver promos in a snarky, but hilarious way. This will help with much of the script writing that comes off as boring and easily one of the biggest complaints about WWE television today. Zayn can go from making viewers laugh, to having them hooked on his every word.

Sami Zayn is a welcome addition to any wrestling fan’s screen. With the Intercontinental belt back around his waist, there are a variety of feuds and angles awaiting him. He is going to be a hot selection in the upcoming WWE Draft, and everyone should be excited to see what is next for him.