The Undercard
Big Show defeated R-Truth to kick off the action on Friday Night Smackdown. I actually thought this was a great idea for a few reasons. Antonio Cesaro and R-Truth are in a decent feud, even though I am still unsure WHY. Anyways, the exposure both of these guys are going to get by battling Big Show and Sheamus will only help them look better and more important. Truth was able to get a few offensive moves on the champion, using his speed and athleticism to attempt to ground him. I thought Show looked very solid from the beginning of the match as well. Show took a nice neckbreaker, but finally hit the Knockout Punch for the victory. Antonio and Sheamus were on the outside on commentary, so that made their story distract both men. They protected Truth but ultimately protected the champion even more. It was smart, not the best match, but made logical sense. Grade: B
Rhodes Scholars defeated The Uso's. Once again, it looks like Cody is getting great heat from his moustache. It may be the little things that keep his career going and going, and this certainly has caused some discussion. The action inside of the ring was solid, with Jimmy and Jey getting the quick offense in. Whether they are over with the crowd or not, Uso's know how to execute entertaining moves. They do a great job connecting with their character and personalities by hitting splashes, yelling with the crowd, and getting the action to intensify. Damien shines once again, like he always does. He hits a beautiful Russian Leg Sweep, an Elbow of Disdain, and really gets the cheap heat. The only part I disliked was the ending, when Damien rolled up an Uso for the victory. This was after a small distraction and was basically a cheap win. Let Damien and Cody pick up wins because they are better, not luckier. Not every heel needs to win like this. Grade: B
Kaitlyn defeated Aksana in quick fashion. There is not much to say about this match besides the extreme difference in where Kaitlyn and Aksana are in the ring. Aksana has a little more speed, but Kaitlyn is well rounded in strength and execution. It was easily seen here, especially when Kaitlyn threw Aksana's head on the mat numerous times. Kaitlyn is just more ready to be here, as Aksana continues to try and find an identity in the ring. Grade: C-
Internation Airstrike, Hornswoggle, and The Great Khali defeated Primetime Players, Primo and Epico. This 8 man tag team match was fun to watch. First off, you have to give credit for Primo and Epico being the workhorses in this match, even though PTP got some good offense in. P and E were able to keep the pace of the match going, using their unique tag team moves, and really grounding the opponents. Kidd and Gabriel are always a treat to watch, and tonight was no different. I absolutely hated the fact that Hornswoggle was in this match and that Khali was as well. Do we really care at all about what they do? What is the point of wasting the 6 other very talented men? For that and that alone, this is why the match will get a negative grade. PTP needs to get into a good feud quickly, or they will be just like every other tag team. They have the personality and talent, but nobody to work with. It is ashame. Grade: D
