As many of you are aware, the match between Sasha Banks and Bianca Belair at WWE SummerSlam for the SmackDown Women’s Championship never occurred.
Earlier this week, there was internal concern after Banks/Belair missed live events due to “unforeseen circumstances”. Belair returned to the road on August 20 for SmackDown in Phoenix, but Banks did not. Initial reports stated that both were “cleared”, however that was inaccurate. The company still continued promoting the match throughout the day of SummerSlam despite Banks’ status.
Related: Report – Sasha Banks Not At SmackDown, SummerSlam Match In Jeopardy
As seen at the event, Becky Lynch would make her return to WWE and defeat Belair for the SmackDown Women’s Championship. The company’s reason behind the decision was said to be because they felt Lynch was a suitable replacement and it would create a “bigger” moment. It should be noted that Lynch had originally been positioned to return in October and not at SummerSlam.
Related: Becky Lynch Returns At WWE SummerSlam & Wins SmackDown Women’s Championship
In a update from Fightful, Banks is still not cleared to compete. Also, Pwinsider would add that it’s not an injury-related issue. As noted before, WWE officials are hopeful that Banks will be back soon.
As always, the staff here at eWn will provide updates as they become available.
