Opening Segment
Sheamus starts the show talking about letting some steam off last week to Del Rio. David Otunga quickly interrupts and demands he apologize to Laurinaitis. Sheamus makes fun of Otunga, and says he will consider apologizing if John Laurinaitis comes out on his scooter. Alberto Del Rio comes out and calls Sheamus stupid and a peasant. Del Rio, thanks to John Laurinaitis, gets to pick Sheamus' opponent for tonight. Sheamus Brogue Kicks Otunga in the face, and bends over and says sorry to him.
What I Liked:
I like how they are trying to book the anti-authority figure of Sheamus in a different way than CM Punk has been. He is more of the fighter, not talker, and continues to take advantage of his popularity on Smackdown. Sheamus and Del Rio needs something more to really make this match feel personal and important, and they have time to do it. This segment kept Laurinaitis in everyone's mind without continous exposure. Another week and another way to have him being talked about without appearing.
What I Disliked:
Do we really take David Otunga seriously? His character would work much better if he has the ability to beat anyone. They make him look so weak inside the ring that it is hard to take him seriously outside. He has a great look, but that is where it stops.
Grade: B
Sin Cara def. Heath Slater
What I Liked:
The return of Sin Cara was a successful one. They did not invest months of video packages or hype, but really brought him back at the right time. The pacing of the match was fast, as you would expect. I did not see any botches or mistakes, and liked that Cara showed "ring rust" by having Slater get some early offense on him. He looked great with his springboard cross body block and La Mistica is a really intriguing finisher that is not the typical one. He has the ability to get back in the good graces with solid in ring performances like this. It is all about consistency, and thanks to Slater, this match was very consistent and timed throughout.
What I Disliked:
This is what you expected a year ago with Sin Cara. All of the hype surrounding him hurt his overall transition into the WWE. I cannot say I disliked any part, but let's play it out and see some consistent matches before we say he is the next Rey Mysterio.
