Closing the year with a defeat doesn't bode well for any wrestler. And especially not for AJ Styles, the reigning WWE champion. The 'Phenomenal' will finish 2017 in the worst way possible, as he lost in the main event of SmackDown in Chicago against Kevin Owens in a non-title match.
However, what bothered Styles the most was not the result, but the way he lost. When he was seeking victory, Shane McMahon appeared to try to impose justice and throw Sami Zayn out of the venue.
That action, instead of helping Styles, ended up harming him, as the 'Phenomenal' kicked Owens and went for the three count, but the referee was distracted with what was happening outside the ring with the commissioner. The champion didn't understand what was happening and 'KO' took advantage of the confusion to secure the victory.
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Sami Zayn entered the ring to embrace Owens, who couldn't believe he had defeated the 'Phenomenal' one. Meanwhile, Styles left the ring and stared at Shane McMahon, seemingly blaming him for the result.
PREVIEW:
2017 has been a very important year for AJ Styles, especially because it seems that he will finish it with the WWE championship in his possession. Tonight (8:00 pm, via Fox Sports 3), he will face Kevin Owens in the last show of the year.
After overcoming Jinder Mahal and the Singh brothers, the 'Phenomenal' can rest assured that the Indian wrestler won't be going after his crown. AJ Styles has been the champion since November 7.
Someone who will have to give explanations is Dolph Ziggler, who has left a question mark about his stay in WWE. After winning it at Clash of Champions, he left the belt in the ring and walked away.
Finally, the participants in the men's and women's Royal Rumble matches will also be announced. So far, it is known that Elias, Naomi, and Asuka will be part of the mega show.