Layla def. AJ
What I Liked:
I cannot remember the last time a WWE show opened with a Diva's contest. Although I am not a huge fan of the booking decision, AJ and Daniel Bryan were the story. Layla and AJ put on a good match considering the time they were given, but it was all about the continued push of AJ as a top figure in the WWE's roster. She continues to pull the role off great, and I loved her attacks on Layla. She needs to be taken seriously, even though she is "mentally unstable." There has to be a fine line between that, and she is doing a great job flipping the switch. Bryan comes out and distracts her, which only makes you wonder what is going to happen next with them. Without Punk on every Smackdown, you can continues to add layers without him being seen every week.
What I Disliked:
This would be better suited at the top of the second hour. Sheamus, Ziggler, and Del Rio are the main event, and should have had some sort of interaction to keep the interest in the match throughout the night. Also, Vickie did a great job, but she seemed out of place because it does not really have anything to do with her. She is the authority figure for the week, but it would have been better if she announced AJ as the special referee backstage. It is not needed to try and overshadow these two.
Grade: B
Damien Sandow def. Zack Ryder
What I Liked:
Sandow earns a spot in the World Heavyweight Championship Money in the Bank Ladder Match by defeating Ryder. Sandow and Ryder are two completely different characters, which is why I enjoy this small feud the past couple of weeks. Sandow cannot lose yet, as he continues to be pushed in his own unique way.Sandow is very quick and intelligent in the ring, knowing what spots to hit and showing his aggression throughout. He has a split personality at times inside the ring, and only benefits him in the long run.
What I Disliked:
Zack Ryder cannot win in the WWE. He was so popular, and now is completely irrelavant in the eyes of the brass. Sandow, hopefully, is not pushed to the top too quickly. I do not think he will be, and even if he loses at MITB, he can still put on a good outing and get his name out there to people who do not watch Smackdown.
Grade: B
-Bryan talks to Kaitlyn backstage. He says he is looking for AJ, but no luck.
