For months, SmackDown has struggled to find momentum. The blue brand lacked consistent stories and compelling mid-card programs. With Sami Zayn winning the United States Championship, WWE injected much-needed life back into the show. Zayn’s credibility as a performer, his ability to build feuds quickly, and his skill in the ring make him the perfect champion to elevate others.
From rising stars like Carmelo Hayes to established names such as Andrade or Damian Priest, challengers now have a strong foundation to work with. Zayn gives SmackDown direction and credibility, which is exactly what the brand needed.
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A milestone moment for fans in Lyon
SmackDown’s European crowd delivered energy that WWE simply could not ignore. Returning to Lyon ahead of Clash in Paris created the perfect atmosphere for something memorable.
Giving Sami Zayn his first United States Championship win in front of such an electric audience was a reward for both performer and fans. The main event felt authentic, driven by the reactions of one of WWE’s loudest crowds of the year.
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Solo Sikoa moves forward to settle unfinished business
Sami Zayn’s victory also opened the door for Solo Sikoa to move on from the title. After months of brutal rivalries, his ultimate showdown with Jacob Fatu looms. If WWE had kept the championship on Solo, it would have complicated that storyline.
By dropping the title to Zayn, Sikoa is free to conclude his feud with Fatu while WWE transitions the spotlight onto the Samoan Werewolf’s next steps.
Building Zayn toward a possible Royal Rumble and world title run
Sami Zayn has long been regarded as one of WWE’s best talents to never hold a world title. A strong United States Championship reign not only gives him credibility but also prepares fans for the possibility of bigger achievements.
With the Royal Rumble ahead and WrestleMania season always looming, WWE could be laying the groundwork for Zayn’s elevation. His current reign is both a reward and a test, proving he can carry gold on a major stage.
