Hello guys, and welcome to this week’s SmackDown Redux! After being pinned by the front runner for #1 contendership, Naomi, twice in recent weeks, Divas Champion AJ Lee (along with Tamina Snuka) is looking to get back into the swing of things this week as she takes on Nikki Bella (with Brie Bella at ringside) in singles action. Can AJ reclaim her spot as Queen of the Mountain, or will she gain another loss in the records books? Check out the match below:
Right out the gate, Nikki uses her strength advantage to dominate AJ, but get overzealous, allowing AJ to send her crashing into the turnbuckle full speed. With her opponent reeling, AJ locks in a rear choke hold, looking for submission victory.
With some encouragement from her sister, Nikki fights out of the hold, but gets nailed with two Chuck Taylors to the back for a nearfall.
Before AJ can get back on the offensive, Nikki unleashes an impressive flurry of offense, but gets distracted by Tamina, as she goes for her finisher.
Brie gets involved and ends up getting inadvertently launched from the apron by her sister. AJ takes advantage of the distraction and locks in the Black Widow, forcing Nikki to tap out.
Thoughts: Short, but sweet match from Nikki and AJ. It was obviously done to reassert AJ’s dominance, without making The Bellas look weak, which was pretty smart.
Speaking of The Bellas, it’s so fun to see them progress as separate wrestlers, as opposed to clones of each other. I’m really enjoying Nikki’s strength based offense, compared to Brie’s more technical style. Everytime I see them in a match, it seems like they are trying something new, which is refreshing.
Last, but certainly not least: AJ vs Naomi. All signs are pointing to it happening (probably at WrestleMania), and I am excited. I will admit, their more recent encounters can’t compare to that amazing NXT3 match, but I’m sure these two will put on quite a show when that title match finally happens. Mark my words.
Well, now that I’m done ranting, that’s all for this week. Until next week!
