Shinsuke Nakamura is back in WWE, and has LA Knight in his crosshairs.
Last night on SmackDown, LA Knight put his United States Championship on the line against Legado del Fantasma’s Berto. Knight successfully defended by way of a BFT, but his post-match celebrations were interrupted by a returning Shinsuke Nakamura, his first television appearance in over six months.
Nakamura appeared behind Knight while the Champion was up on the turnbuckle, and delivered a spinning elbow followed by a knee.
No way!!! đ±@ShinsukeN is back and he just took out @RealLAKnight!! #SmackDownpic.twitter.com/Uicli4Ew1N
— WWE (@WWE) November 16, 2024
Nakamura is introducing a new look with this return, sporting a long, brown duster coat, his hair obscuring most of his face, and red face paint around his eyes. He remained silent after taking out Knight and then heading for the ramp, so only time will tell whether this change in attire will come with a new persona.
While Nakamura has performed at house shows throughout this year, he hasnât been seen on television since April, when he was moved to SmackDown as part of the WWE Draft. A recent house show in England saw him face off against Knight for the United States title, with Knight emerging victorious.
Nakamura has been vocal about his frustrations during his recent time at WWE, stating that he “hasn’t been able to show [his] potential”. He is set to make a return to Japan in January for a match in Pro Wrestling NOAH against Ulka Sasaki.
When discussing LA Knight, one WWE veteran believed the spark has faded.
What else happened on the Nov 15 episode of WWE SmackDown?
WWE SmackDown took place in Milwaukee last night, and the Wisconsin crowd witnessed a heated confrontation between the rival Bloodline factions. The main event saw the Womenâs Champion Nia Jax put her title on the line against Naomi.