Sami Zayn’s Open Challenge featured Aleister Black, a name many fans hoped would be built up as a future US Champion. The match had solid chemistry, but Black lost due to interference from Damian Priest. Commentary noted it was Black’s first singles title shot on the main roster, making the loss feel even more deflating.
Instead of using Black in a throwaway challenge, WWE could’ve saved the matchup for a proper feud. Other rising stars like Carmelo Hayes, Rey Fenix, and Santos Escobar remain viable contenders, but spacing out these rivalries is key to maintaining momentum.