Old North Banter: Pre-Survior Series Smackdown Amazes

A.J. Styles vs. Jinder Mahal

Last week on Smackdown, Styles took the WWE Championship away from Mahal. With no televised audience, the stakes in this match were virtually nonexistent, especially with Styles’ matchup with Lesnar at Survivor Series. After the conclusion of 205 Live, most of the energy at the Spectrum Center had died out. However, this match wasn’t completely barren of entertainment.

Styles’ speed lends itself to strong showings. Mahal commands a strong presence in the ring. The major detraction from the match, though, is Mahal’s cronies, the Singh Brothers. One of the moments that stood out was when Styles had Mahal in a submission hold. One of the brothers feigned to enter the ring, drawing the referee’s attention. The other dragged Styles and Mahal to the opposite side of the ring so that Mahal could grab the bottom rope, breaking the hold. The match ended with Styles as the victor, but the most exciting moment came with the Singhs had their comeuppance. After Mahal and one of the Singhs exited, Styles performed a “Styles Clash” on the other brother, re-igniting the crowd.

Next: North Carolina Sports: Maye, Bagley Co-Players of the Week

With the WWE Championship still secure, Styles address the Charlotte crowd for a final time.

“One more thing before we leave: watch Survivor Series this Sunday, and watch Brock Lesnar get his [tail] kicked.”