WWE Cuts Paige’s SmackDown Promo Due to Time Constraints, Releases It Online

Key points

• WWE cut a promo from Paige on the August 14 SmackDown broadcast due to 'logistical reasons,' primarily time constraints.
• The segment, where Paige responded to Nikki Bella's attacks, was later released online after the show.
• Paige expressed frustration on social media about women's television time being cut.
• The feud between Paige and the Bella Twins is expected to continue, potentially until Brie Bella recovers from an injury.
• WWE has been cutting more segments from SmackDown since reducing the show's runtime from three hours to two.

Background

The feud between Paige and the Bella Twins began after a SummerSlam six-woman tag team match where the Bella Twins turned on Paige. Brie Bella was injured during the match, leaving Nikki Bella to carry the feud. Paige had previously teased a return to WWE TV to address Nikki's taunts.

How outlets are covering it

Ringside News and Cageside Seats both report that WWE cut Paige's promo due to logistical reasons, specifically time constraints from the show's reduced runtime. PWInsider, cited by both, notes that WWE released the footage online after the show. twnpnews.com emphasizes that this is not the first time WWE has cut Paige's segments since her return, highlighting a pattern of WWE cutting women's segments. Cageside Seats provides the full text of the cut promo, showing Paige's direct response to Nikki Bella's attacks. Ringside News notes that Paige's frustration on social media drew attention to the issue of women's television time being cut.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges WWE faces with its two-hour SmackDown format, which has led to more segments being cut from the broadcast. It also underscores the importance of the feud between Paige and the Bella Twins, which is expected to continue and potentially lead to a match between Paige and AJ Lee versus the Bella Twins. The incident also raises questions about WWE's commitment to women's programming and the impact of time constraints on storytelling.

What to watch

The feud between Paige and the Bella Twins is expected to continue, potentially until Brie Bella recovers from her injury. WWE may book a match between Paige and AJ Lee versus the Bella Twins. Paige and Nikki Bella are set to continue their rivalry on the next SmackDown.