Sami Zayn kept his United States Championship on the October 3 episode of SmackDown, defeating Aleister Black with help from Damian Priest. Priest’s interference swung the match in Zayn’s favor, and his post-match attack left Black laid out at ringside.
The title fight began after Black answered Zayn’s open challenge, leading to a hard-hitting clash from the start. Black landed a springboard moonsault and showcased his striking game, while Zayn countered with aerial offense and a vertical suplex.
The battle stayed even throughout. Zayn connected with a Michinoku Driver, Black fired back with a Northern Lights suplex, and both men survived multiple pin attempts. Black’s heavy kicks slowed the champion, but Zayn answered with a top-rope superplex and a Sunset Flip Powerbomb. Neither move could seal the win.
The turning point came in the closing moments. Damian Priest appeared at ringside, distracting Black at a crucial moment. Zayn seized the opening, hitting a Helluva Kick followed by a Blue Thunder Bomb to score the pin and retain the title.
Priest wasn’t done. After the bell, he leaned over the beaten challenger and taunted him: “What did you think was gonna happen?” He then lifted Black and drove him through the announce table with a Razor’s Edge, leaving him motionless.
Priest’s attack raises big questions: how will this impact Zayn’s reign, and what does it mean for Aleister Black’s future?