Sami Zayn’s historic victory for the WWE United States Championship on the August 29 SmackDown in Lyon, France, has not only thrilled fans but also sparked reactions from some of the industry’s closest insiders, including his longtime friend and frenemy Kevin Owens. Owens offered an ambiguous yet heartfelt message that reflects their complex relationship, while also underscoring Zayn’s undeniable talent in the ring.
Sami Zayn Captures First United States Championship
The main event of SmackDown saw Sami Zayn dethrone Solo Sikoa to win the United States Championship for the very first time. The victory was hard-earned, with interference attempts from the MFT faction thwarted by Jacob Fatu, allowing Zayn to connect his signature Helluva Kick and seal the win. This title win is a significant milestone in Zayn’s career, marking him as a top competitor on WWE’s blue brand just days before the Clash In Paris pay-per-view[1][2].
Triple H was quick to praise Zayn’s performance, calling it “an incredibly gutsy performance by one of the best” and commemorating the moment with a backstage photo[1].
Kevin Owens’ Playful Yet Respectful Take
Responding on social media, Kevin Owens expressed mixed emotions that reflect his complicated history with Sami Zayn—a partnership turned rivalry turned friendship filled with highs and lows. Owens acknowledged Sami as “one of the best indeed” and went further to call him “Top 1, in my opinion.” However, keeping with their playful animosity, Owens added, “I still hate him though. Or maybe not. I don’t know, it’s hard to remember. Depends on the day, I guess. We’ll see what happens.” Owens wrapped up his message by emphasizing, “One thing I do know for sure is that he’s the best”[1][2][3].
This teasing message resonates deeply with the dynamic the two have long shared—a blend of respect, rivalry, and brotherhood. According to a WWE insider, the atmosphere backstage after SmackDown was charged with excitement over Sami’s win, and Owens was reportedly one of the first to congratulate him in private while keeping his trademark edge intact.
The Owens-Zayn Saga: Past, Present, and Future
Owens and Zayn have one of the most storied relationships in WWE over the past decade. The pair initially thrived as a tag team but quickly became fierce rivals, turning their on-screen storyline into a captivating saga of competitive tension and genuine camaraderie. Their matches, promos, and sometimes uneasy partnerships have captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
Kevin Owens himself is no stranger to the United States Title, having held the championship three times, including a memorable win over AJ Styles for his third reign[4]. Owens has been sidelined recently due to neck fusion surgery, which has left his in-ring future uncertain. However, sources close to WWE reveal that Owens remains closely involved behind the scenes and is keeping an eye on Sami’s ascent, both as a friend and a prospective challenger.
What’s Next for Sami Zayn and Kevin Owens?
With Clash In Paris just days away and the blue brand buzzing with energy, Sami Zayn’s United States Championship reign is loaded with potential storylines. Owens’ public acknowledgment, mixed with his usual biting humor, suggests that a renewed feud or alliance between the two could be on the horizon.
A WWE insider shared, “Kevin’s reaction isn’t just playful banter—it’s a sign of genuine respect. He sees Sami’s win as a new chapter, and given their history, anything could happen next. There’s a lot of anticipation about whether they’ll clash in a high-stakes match or unite for a new cause.”
The Significance of This Title Win for Sami Zayn
For Sami Zayn, winning the United States Championship in front of a fervent European crowd is a career highlight. It enhances his status as one of WWE’s most skilled and beloved performers. His underdog persona combined with technical prowess consistently endears him to fans, and this title win validates his persistence and growth.
As Triple H noted, Sami’s performance was “gutsy” and truly deserving. This win also positions Sami as a key player heading into major upcoming events, whose storylines are expected to intertwine with other WWE superstars across SmackDown and beyond[1].
Conclusion
Kevin Owens’ candid, ambiguous reaction to Sami Zayn’s United States Championship win perfectly encapsulates the unique chemistry and history between two of WWE’s top talents. Owens recognizes Sami as the “best” while teasing their fluctuating feelings toward each other, keeping the door open for future storylines.
Meanwhile, Sami Zayn’s first US title reign signals thrilling new developments for the WWE SmackDown brand, raising expectations for Clash In Paris and beyond. Fans can look forward to seeing if Owens and Zayn will continue their storied rivalry or perhaps unite as allies once again, making the WWE landscape all the more compelling in the months ahead.