Booker T calls SmackDown women's title triple threat finish a botch

WWE Hall of Famer Booker T criticized the September 26 SmackDown main event, calling the triple threat for the WWE Women’s Championship a “botch” after a confusing finish that left Jade Cargill bloodied and Tiffany Stratton retaining the title. The match, held on SmackDown, ended amid a disputed pinfall and a visible cut to Cargill’s face after a collision with the steel steps.

Booker T, who was on commentary for the bout and later discussed it on his Hall of Fame podcast, said the contest suffered from poor communication among the three participants. “You could tell there was a lot of miscommunication,” he said, adding, “Was it a botch? Heck yeah it was a botch.” He suggested differences in experience and role expectations contributed to the breakdown, saying one competitor appeared to be trying to lead the match while others were less comfortable in the situation.

The closing sequence became the focal point. Referee Daphanie LaShaunn initially counted two on a pin of Nia Jax despite Jax’s shoulder remaining down, then stopped the count. After an awkward pause, Stratton executed an elbow drop and a moonsault and the referee completed a second pinfall count that secured the...